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estellaelysian · 4 years ago

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It burns (Ethan x MC)

A/N: This is super self indulgent and doesn’t lead anywhere so proceed on your own risk

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The alcohol scorched down his throat as he let his mind wander in the memories of the day, which seemed too distant now that it was over. Evening shaded into night beyond the red-brick walls of the bar – which were lined with numerous neon signs, the glow spilling onto nearby tables and people. Ethan chased the shadow of Alishka as his mind jumped from one moment to the next in all those where they had interacted with each other over the day. The image of her deep green eyes, wavy brown hair and full lips remained forever etched into his mind, giving him warmth like an eternal flame would.

It was late when he made it to this bar – Russo and Dale – but it was also when he found Boston the most loveable, shimmering in the glow of night, her streets thrumming with life and beating hearts and cheerfulness. He had taken an unnecessary walk from the hospital to his destination, wanting to feel anonymous in the dull crowd of people who were walking down the street. The permanence of the aged buildings, the restored Victorian row-houses surrounding English-style corners and the glowing yellow street lamps in South End seemed to give somewhat of a reassurance to his bruised and tired soul as he weaved his way among the sea of strangers. Walking wearily past dark shops, while the sky turned to a deep blue-black above him, he tried to find solace in the anonymity.

But now, at long last, when he found himself alone again, the unease returned, stronger than ever. He took a sip of the amber liquid, then another and then a third, but nothing seemed to ease him as he listened to the determined thud of a bass from the neighboring dive-bar. The foolish chatter around him did not drown out the rising voices inside his head – her voice and his, as they had argued in his office long into the afternoon.

That one argument had been enough to disrupt the entire balance he had built with the same woman whom he had disappointed today. But it was a mutual disappointment. She had been irrelevant to.

Shaking his head, he took another sip, letting the alcohol burn down his throat as he stared – quite intently – at the marble counter in front of him. It was amazing really, that the woman from whom he drew his strength could also be one of his greatest weaknesses. That was exactly why he had retired to his old office in the afternoon. He had lost focus, so instead of looking into patient care, he thought drowning himself into paperwork would help.

But indeed, it had not. Did it ever?

His mind, like a blissful dog scampering back to its lamppost, seemed to be stuck at the argument – making assumptions about the way she sounded, acted, spoke – no matter how much he tried to distract himself. Everything blurred around him, as if he had tuned out from his surroundings.

Why, he thought, was it so necessary for her to be insistent about things that did not matter to him? To latch onto one subject and stretch it until his patience snapped?

Or had he been truly unreasonable this time?

Oh dear God…

He swirled the gleaming liquid in its glass slowly before taking another sip, intent on numbing his brain, only that it refused from being so. Over and over again, her voice tortured him from deep inside; calling him out on the stubborn asshole he was before fading, only to return for the millionth time.

But wasn’t that the point of tonight? To get as far away as he could from the hospital, go to a bar in South End, and let the alcohol ease his pain and anxiety.

The door opened and someone stepped in, bringing together a cool Boston breeze and faint traces of wildflowers. Though his senses seemed unnaturally sharpened at this point, his eyes remained glued to his glass. But just a few seconds later, he found the woman right beside him, the scent of wildflowers much more perceptible.

Green flashed in his mind, deep and comforting, as he connected the scent, almost instinctively, to the one person it reminded him of.

Hold yourself, Ramsey.

In his peripheral vision, he saw the woman flag down the bartender and order a rainbow colored cocktail before turning away for a moment or two.

‘Quite the pain-relief, isn’t it?’ she asked in a mellifluous, sweet voice which fell like honey onto his tongue.

He could swear it was Alishka’s voice, but maybe he had dived too deep into the alcohol pain-relief. He had started imagining things.

Sensing that she was probably still expecting an answer, he nodded before looking straight at her.

And almost immediately, thought of Alishka Roy, even though he had put up a boundary between him and those insistent, maddening thoughts.

He didn’t realize it at first, but that smile – he would recognize it anywhere, anytime, no matter how detached he was.

But Alishka?

Nonsense. He was losing his mind.

‘I should’ve guessed my boss would come here after the much-exhausting day he faced at work today. It would’ve atleast saved me the time I spent wandering about.’

He raised his eyes to her face again. This was not an illusion. She was real, he thought, as he glanced at her hot coral lips which now wore an amused smile. He was not dreaming.

But why would she feel the need to wander about for him?

Do you really need an answer for that, dimwit, his mind chided.

‘Ofcourse you’d follow me here too,’ he said bluntly, battling away the sweeter responses, raising the glass to his lips.

‘You are not my boss outside of work, Dr. Ramsey. It is my freewill to do as I want to once I step outside the hospital.’

He looked up at her again, a smirk curling the corners of his lips. ‘Says the woman who bothers me all the same, inside or out.’

She made a dismissive wave, an easy laughter leaving her. ‘You’ve got a horrid sense of humor,’ she said. ‘Perhaps that is why everyone is terrified of you, even now.’

The last two words stung with an unimaginable burn, questioning the character he had spent years to build.

‘What do you mean, “even now”?’ he asked, the words coming out much more defiant than he wanted them to.

She smiled a benevolent smile as the bartender dropped off her cocktail, which smelled strongly of Pernod. Raising the glass up to meet her lips with tantalizing slowness, she said, ‘Even now, when they’ve learned that you can love something, someone more than medicine. Wholeheartedly.’

He choked on his drink involuntarily, but she went on, as if she hadn’t heard him at all. ‘And yet, at the same time, you can manage to be incredibly bitter to that someone.’

She took a long gulp of her cocktail, and again, before he could respond to her grievances, she said, ‘But anyway, I am not here to discuss that.’

Play pretend, he thought.

‘And why exactly, is it that you are here?’

‘Same as you. Pain-relief. My boss can be a real bore sometimes,’ she answered with the faintest traces of a smirk.

Let’s hear it now, shall we. ‘Who is your boss?’ he asked, going along with her little game.

‘Some world class, renowned, grumpy attending diagnostician.’

He liked how she complimented him and got a dig at him in the same sentence.

‘He seems to have a stressful job,’ he said, looking over the glass to her heavenly features, painted in the neon glow of the bar.

‘That he likes to imply. He is good at what he does.’

He nodded, trying to contemplate her answer, thinking that there would be traces of sarcasm in her answer, but found none.

‘Cheers to that,’ he said, clinking her glass with his own, their fingers brushing slightly, setting his body ablaze with the kind of fire that raged through forests. It was the closest they had got to touching that day, morning apart.

He finished the scotch in one long sip under her watchful gaze. Torture or bliss, there was no answer.

Though dulled by the excesses of the alcohol, he felt anger rise inside his body at the men who made glances in her direction, from a distance or even as they passed her. She seemed to draw much more gazes today than she did usually.

What exactly was it? Her rich brown hair, inching down her back, or those emerald eyes that gleamed with cleverness? And why, every time, did his jealousy had him to do things which he shouldn’t have been doing?

He didn’t know.

What he did know, was that he wouldn’t let those men even get near her.

So he raised a hand to her face, smoothing away stray strands of hair and tucking them behind her ear.

If she was surprised, she did not show it, but a lovely blush spread out on her cheeks, spreading down to her graceful neck and uncovered shoulders. She eyed him with a raised eyebrow, and he willfully ignored all the ideas that look gave him. Tonight was different. Even if they left the bar together, they would part ways almost as soon as they were outside, walking down in opposite directions.

Tonight they were fighting, even though it was different.

Even if he had to have his heart tugged and pulled and then torn, tonight was different.

Her emeralds met his sapphires, curious and bewitching.

He wished he could kiss those perfectly painted lips and ruin that makeup.

‘How about we make a deal then,’ she asked, setting down the glass on the paper napkin that was left on the shiny marble counter. ‘Tonight, let’s forget everything. Let’s forget that you are my irritating boss, let’s forget that I am a – what did you call me? – ah, bothersome resident. Let’s forget those men staring down at me from the opposite corner of the bar. Let’s put a pause on this battlefield, even though I am sure I can outwit you in every way, and let’ go home together.’

That was a tempting offer.

The suggestive tone and the desire burning plain in her eyes ignited his need for her.

How could he not resist her, even a single night?

His voice came out dusky when he spoke again. ‘Let’s put them topics to bed, and go fuck on the roof.’

Just to say that we did.

She smiled. ‘I’d rather your body than half of your heart,’ she said, quoting the song back to him, her voice the sweetest he had ever heard it to be.

Ethan blinked. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to tell her that he was far from fighting or if he wanted to claim those lips, right now, right here.

Then he saw, over her shoulder, a man whisper something to another before looking at her neck. He felt disgusted as his gaze traveled lower and lower. He was suddenly overcome by the desire to punch him in his filthy face, but he kept his expression carefully neutral, not betraying a single of the feelings he was feeling at that exact moment.

‘Let’s go home then,’ he announced, rising at once and reaching for her hand.

He led her outside into the cool crisp Boston night and she only felt justified in flagging down a cab to the way home, though it wasn’t that far away.

They could’ve walked there.

But then he wouldn’t get to do as he willed right in the cab, as he decided he need not waste a single minute of the time he had been gifted, by incidence or co-incidence, all the same. He failed to keep his hands to himself in the darkened cab, momentarily being illuminated by headlights and taillights of the passing traffic, as he crowed her into a corner, evoking soft moans. He watched her, bathed in red light, her sequined top glittering as the light shifted against her profile. Her eyes met his and he lost his sane, his coherent thoughts reducing to a small compass in his brain. Her lips commanded his attention, and he pressed his lips against them, evoking a gentle sigh as their breaths mingled. Her soft fingers grazed his rough beard as her hand rested against his cheek.

The music masked their muffled whispers and moans, but he could feel the drivers eyes, moving with unnecessary regularity, from the road ahead to the rearview mirror.

Even in the elevator, they stumbled, failing from keeping themselves from touching each other. The button to the thirteenth floor was pressed before he felt the soft pressure of her lips against his own. Her tongue was cool and sweet and tasted of Pernod.

‘Alishka…’ he managed to say between the kisses. ‘Why do we fight at all?’

‘Because we are …’ a little giggle. ‘Both … very stubborn …’

A few seconds later they stood at his door, which was unlocked with haste and shut close with a loud bang. The moment they stepped inside, he dipped his head and closed his lips over hers.

‘Nothing makes sense without you…’ he murmured into her ear, proceeding to tug her tight against him.

‘Then accept your defeat …’ she returned immediately, making a quick work of his shirt buttons. ‘But then again, we’ve called a temporary pause on this battlefield, haven’t we.’

Albeit reluctantly, he agreed. ‘We have.’

He led her to the bedroom, helping her out of her clothes before easing her down on the mattress gently, deciding the bitterness and pain had been enough for the day. The night had to be different.

Slow, gentle hands grazed the newly exposed skin with caresses too soft, before he leaned down on her, gazing into her eyes, letting his forehead rest against hers.

‘I love you.’

She giggled again. ‘I love you too.’

**********

Kudos to you guys if you made it out of this chaotic mess my brain put together. I honestly don’t know how this happened, but I guess it’s just me after a full, very real college day with loads of note-taking.

Tagging: @tenaciouslandvoidgiant @choicesaddict5 @schnitzelbutterfingers @starrystarrytrouble

Let me know if you want to be added or removed.

#ethan x mc #ethan ramsey #open heart #playchoices #choices

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drifting-mindspace · 5 years ago

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Things we deserved to get from the Naruto manga and anime that we never got -

• JONIN NARUTO -

We followed him around as the lovable Genin knucklehead. Now it goes without saying that him being a Jonin is just a rank and honestly doesnt mean much. Rescuing Gaara, going after Kakuzo, Mount Miyaboku were all A & S-rank missions.

But I would liked to have seen him doing missions post war in a slightly more mature yet typically knuckleheaded manner instead of the passing phrase he made tonShikamaru about being too busy doing missions for the next 6 months.

We grew up with Naruto and now that he's older and stronger we dont get to see him in action.

• A Happily Married Kakashi & Shizune-

Hatake Kakashi has led a deeply traumatic life. His mother died when he was very young, his father committed suicide when he was 6 causing him to distance himself from everyone around him. The first person he opened up to and formed a bond with died moments later protecting him, the girl he deeply cared for and probably harbored feelings for which he was too afraid to confront died at his hands as he desperately tried to protect her, a year later his sensei died protecting the village. When he became a sensei to Team 7 he felt he was on a path to finding inner peace by ensuring these children avoid his traumas but his prized pupil went rogue shattering that hope. After all this I’d hoped he would’ve finally found a happy ending.

Why Shizune? Well I considered him and Kurenai getting together and him helping raise Mirai but Shizune has always felt like the only Kunoichi in Konoha who has her shit together. She is perfectly at peace with where she is in life. She is incredibly mature and level headed as she helps run the village with Tsunade. Someone who is at peace with herself and her aspirations is the perfect anchor for a man with a whirpool of trauma brewing in him.

Alas it seems like the showrunners have no intention of a romantic arc for Kakashi and the Hatake name will die with Kakashi.

• The Uzumaki Clan

Within a span of 3 months Naruto meets 3 Uzumaki clan members. Nagato, Karin and his own mother. While speaking with Kushina he finds out about the dark fate of the Uzumaki clan. How they were blessed with unimaginably high chakra reserves and were gifted in Sealing Jutsus, longevity and how it led to them being targeted by those who feared them leading to their village being wiped out and scattered across the shinobi world.

Instead of turning the Naruto saga into the Uchiha Chronicles Id have preferred a deep dive into the Uzumaki clan. Maybe even have a Sasuke-like venegeful figure who wants Konoha to suffer because they failed to provide aid to the village they called their strong allies in their greatest hour of need.

Like Sasuke this villain would’ve witnessed his fellow clansmen cut down, unlike Sasuke however he wouldn’t have had the likes of Naruto, Itachi or Kakashi to anchor him in the light leaving room for redemption.

This could have been the one villain that was so far gone in his pain and hatred that no amount of 'talk no jutsu' could have changed his mind and would've pushed Naruto to the very brink until he finally had to choose between killing his clansman or protecting his village.

Naruto would make the ultimate sacrifice for Konoha and this would all the more set his resolve to pulling Sasuke back from the darkness or dying with him.

An Uzumaki villain gifted in Fuijutsu and the use of the Uzumaki Kekkei Genkai, the Adamantine Chains along with massive chakra reserves would be the perfect power scaled villain for Post Pain Arc Naruto.

Instead we got Uchiha chronicles where everyone did whatever the fuck they thought of doing and chakra limits were all but history. This one really disappointed me. Which brings me to my next disappointment.

• Naruto Killing a Villain

Now I know it seems like an odd hang up. Naruto? Kill? But he is so fixated on redemption. That is exactly why I wanted this to happen. The series has gone out of its way to make sure Naruto hasn’t killed a character. The worst of it was against Kakuzu. The kind of attack unleashed upon Kakuzu SHOULD by all means have killed him. Yet somehow he was left in a ‘dying state’ and Kakashi was the one who did the deed.

Naruto being forced to kill a villain as a last resort and making a choice between saving someone dear to him or tainting his hands with blood was the ultimate moral conundrum for a shinobi whose biggest goal was rescuing his best friend from the dark. It would take him back to Itachi’s words where he asked Naruto what he would if Sasuke decided to destroy the village.

Instead we saw Rasen Shuriken and Rasengan getting scaled down to a point where they always injure and opponent but not kill him. For an S-rank jutsu, Rasen Shuriken happens to be quite lenient.

• Neji beoming the head of the Hyuuga Clan

This pisses me off the most. Neji was supposed to be to the Hyuuga was Naruto was to Konoha. I always expected Neji to overcome all the obstacles and get recognized by Hiashin who would then redeem himself and disband the branch system once and for all. Hiashin as a character was never redeemed. Here was a man who let his brother get executed to avoid punishment (albeit he was against it but it did happen), constantly abused his kind daughter and belittled her for being too soft and put her down to a point her personality was underdeveloped and she had deep seethed confidence issues.

Disbanding the branch system and making Neji the leader would redeem him in the eyes of the readers/ viewers and would clean up the Hyuuga clan.

Instead Neji was scrapped aside to give Naruto and Hinata a bonding moment. They had a bonding moment, it was when she almost died saving his life. Neji didn’t have to die for them to get together ffs. What a wasted potential.

• NaruSaku

Now I’m not a fanatic shipper. In fact when I read and watched the original series I absolutely HATED Sakura. My hatred for her reached it’s peak during the Zabuza arc when Naruto ran at the S-rank villain, got kicked away and got up to show he went in for his forehead protector. “What do you think you’re doing Naruto? Even Sasuke-kun wasn’t a match for him.” I just wanted Naruto to turn around and tell her to stfu in that moment. As the series approached the time skip I was well and truly content with NaruHina.

But Shippuden changed things. The hints towards Sakura’s changed feelings were sprinkled all over the series. One moment that stands out for me was the Clone Training arc where Sai tests her by abusing Naruto and she goes on a rage rant about how great he is. Let’s not forget that in her darkest hour, as she saw a ruined and destroyed village the only person she thought of and cried out to was Naruto. Not because she felt he could save the village (she was as shocked as Shikamaru as she found out he was facing pain alone) but because when things when bad for her the only person who she felt comfort around was indeed Naruto and that is indisputable.

She goes as far as ruining her friendship with Naruto, a bond she truly cherished as it was all she had left after Sasuke abandoned the village, and confessed her feelings to manipulate him. Yes manipulative, scheming and downright a bitch of a thing to do. But it was all she could think of to make Naruto stop chasing after Sasuke. She, more than anyone wanted to see Naruto become a Hokage and realize his dreams and dying while rescuing Sasuke was a risk she couldn’t take and she decided she’d have him hate her than die. Wrong yes. But oddly noble.

This combined with all the blatant attempts to establish her being like Kushina and Kushina saying she wants Naruto to find someone like her changed my mind from NaruHina. I still adore Hinata. She is a wonderful character. But organic plot progression is far more important to me than my ships being canon.

A Naruto-Sakura family would’ve been incredibly entertaining and the dynamics would be perfect. We’d see a Minato-Kushina couple on screen for the next series. Which brings me to my next disappointment.

•HinaShino

I don’t know if that’s the official name for the pairing but I always felt these 2 would make a great couple.They are both people of a few words and are both incredibly intuitive and understanding individuals. Shino would accept Hinata for who she was and vice versa. Being with someone who was happy with the person they were would go miles in helping them come out of their shells.

Altho this isn’t a massive disappointment for me. I’m happy that Hinata ended up with Naruto. But like I said organic plot progression matters to me and if Naruto ended up with Sakura I’d prefer Hinata to end up with Shino.

•Hiraishin No Jutsu

Sadly as the series progressed Naruto had become so OP that not letting him master his father’s improved version of Tobirama’s jutsu was a great decision. It would’ve just made him senselessly OP.

However instead of giving him all those God Tier power ups which he just gains in single training sessions I’d have preferred him working hard to master the Hirashin. Instead of sending him off to an island and treating him like a fucking idiot and asking him to survey animals I’d have preferred if Tsunade gave him an impossible task.

“You can’t fight in the battle. But I will only allow it if you can master your father’s jutsu.”

It was a period of 6 months between Danzo’s death and the start of the shinobi war. Ample time to show him training hard to learn a jutsu that for once required him to study. Hiraishin deals not just in physical acts of speed but also mastering seals. Seeing his friends go off to fight in the war as he was left behind would have only added to his frustration and motivated him more.

Showing Naruto training hard like they showed him training for Rasen Shuriken would’ve only made us cheer all the more harder when he’d make a badass entry on the battle field as Tobi came close to killing Kakashi and a three pronged Kunai swished between the two, an orange flash appeared and Naruto kicked Tobi away.

Sadly this was swapped for Pokemon evolutions where arc after arc Naruto levels up just like that. The show’s entire premise was based on hard work and guts.

Sasuke was the genius who gained his power through natural ability. Sure he trained hard but his strength came to him with ease. Naruto had to slog. He manged to make the Rasengan after nearly 15 episodes of training and even then he had to get stabbed to be able to use it. It wasn’t until another 10 episodes that he properly used it. His training for the Rasenshuriken took an entire season to yield results and even then he didn’t learn to throw it until he trained for another 3 seasons till the Pain arc.

Post pain all this is tossed aside. He sits at the waterfall twice and beats the darkness. He sits in the room once and tames Kurama. Later Kakashi and Guy are in trouble, he has an inner dialogue with Kurama and suddenly he mastered the two man team with no prior training. Rikkodu Sennin touches him once and suddenly he’s learnt how to grow eyes, stop death and fly just like that.

The series stopped being the Naruto series we grew up with post Danzo and it saddens me.

• Naruto Sensei -

And finally my last and greatest disappointment of all. Not seeing Naruto as a sensei. We’ve seen glimpses of his nurturing side in his interactions with Konohamaru but I’d have loved to have seen 40-50 episodes of him leading his own squad of genins. A perfect combination of Kakashi and Guy as he’d wow them with his brilliance and equally embarrass them in day to day interactions with his goofy tomfoolery. His genins would be in awe of him. Naruto Sensei - the hero of the war.

His students could have an arrogant son/daughter of a feudal lord who insisted he be trained by the war hero, Naruto and Kakashi had to cave in for diplomatic reasons. Naruto refuses to take anyone who doesn’t work hard to get where they are but after the bell test sees potential in the child. A child with no ninja background. His parents were farmers outside of Konoha who were very poor. His sole aim is to be a ninja so strong that he’s always assigned big missions that will help him ease his family’s financial burdens. A genin from the Inuzuka clan (or any other clan, maybe even Hanabi if the show wanted to push more Naruto-Hinata interactions) who thinks he’s better than the other 2 because of his family background but is taught humility by Naruto.

Sadly another development in Naruto’s life we were denied.

Well that’s my rant essay. I know a lot of people won’t agree with what I had to say but I wanted to get it off my best anyway. Why?

Because I wanted to dattebayo!

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inessencedevided · 5 years ago

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The Untamed, episode 46 - watching notes

Full disclosure: I'm not in a particularly good mood today. Have you seen that "no productivity. Only guild." Meme flying around? That's me today :|

Hopefully this will distract me (though distraction was the problem in the first place 🙈)

I apologise for any typos you'll finde in this post 😅

To recap, the last thing I learned was that apparently, Jiggy married his own sister because Jin Guangshan was a scumbag who raped more women than he could possibly remember

I was told by several people that this episode is their favourite. No pressures or anything :D

The way someone is dragging up Jiggy's secrets has a lot of poetic justice to it. Everyone is outraged and gossiping. Consensus is reached quickly. Kinda makes me feel that that someone (who probably also wrote the letter to jgy) knows exactly how to use the sect world's worst qualities as a weapon

Yao what's-his-name, resident gossip queen, at it again

Don't look at me my memory is as bad as wwx when it comes to names :D

I was about to write who is Lianfang Zum again and then I remembered that it's jiggy's honorary title. See what I mean? ^^

What does it say about me that my heart makes a leap when I simply see wwx leaning close to lwj to whisper to him? 😅 I'll probably die reading the novel, that's what that says

Oh so it was the maid who sent the letter

Come on Wei Wuxian! That was cruel

Yeah Yao what's-his-name, why would you need to know the identity of who ever is behind this? It's not like you've ever been deceived before!

What's... with that bracelet?

I love it how everyone looks positively startled when Lan Wangji says something unprompted :D

Wait ... Zwei Jun is in his hands? Shit, i don't remeber what happened there. Where did Xichen go again? 😬

I'm so confused right now 🙈 I can't watch and read the subtitles and type

Okay, watched the whole conversation again, now I'm following

I reiterate my earlier statement that whoever is pulling the strings here knows exactly what strings to pull to get the clans to act

Great, another mob 🙄

Loooool

NOW you want his help? 😂

Sure, as soon as he can serve YOU with his "evil tricks", that's okay!

You can see how much wwx changed because he does not hold their hypocrisy to their faces. He mostly seemed tired of it

And Jiang Cheng just realised that wwx might indeed not be responsible for Jiang Yanli's death, didn't he? He's almost stunned 🥺

Or is BEAUTIFUL to see Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji move in such unity! 😭

Oh ... those are the graves of his foster parents, right? :(

And Yanli ... oh God I forgot about Yanli 🥺

I'm crying again. Nothing on this show will ever hit as hard to me as the Yunmeng siblings' fate

I couldn't help myself, I legitimately just stroked my laptop screen where Yanli's plate was 🥺

So many conflicting emotions

Thanks to a friendly anon, I know that these three bows together are marriage thing! 😭😭😭

So yeah, they're married now. I dont make the rules :')

Somehow, this feels like them asking wwx's foster family's blessing

And now I'm imagining Shijie smiling back at them gently and I'm crying 🥺

And by God, I love lwj's gentle teasing :')

This whole scene, he's so soft! 😭

And it think that Wei Wuxian probably thought that he'd never get to step into Lotus Pier again. But here, he can finally say his goodbyes to his Shijie properly. He can heal! 🖤

And again, I cannot stress enough how wonderful that is! And how rare and precious in a show like this. So often character's get put through unimaginable trauma, but they either brush it off no problem or the show/movie ends immediately after the main action and you are left to imagine the number it did on the character's psyche. There are so rarely fantasy shows that really dive into the emotional fallout the plot has on their characters and then give them time to heal. Thus show does both and I'm so goddamn overjoyed my it!

Come to think of it, it reminds me of a very good hurt/comfort fic 🤷‍♀️

Jiang Cheng pleae, fir once, try not to be angry immediately when you're hurting :(

He still takes special offence that lwj is there. Makes me wonder if he still feels like wwx chooses lwj over the Jiang sect and is still hurt by it 😔 (note that at the same time, he reminds wwx that he's very much not a member of the Jiang clan anymore. God, the man has not worked through his own feelings ...)

For once, as much as I love it when lwj defends wwx (especially when it's not against any physical harm, but because he doesn't want wwx to be hurt emotionally) I think him interfering with this particular conflict does not help

Okay sorry, but no! lotus pier was not destroyed because wwx saved lwj in that cave. That was just an excuse for the Wen sect. They would have come eventually anyway

Ohhh

So there's my answer

He's still hurt because he feels wwx chooses anyone else over his family, which is to say him

And he probably can't understand because their positions are so different. The (future) sect leader and the son of a (dead) servant and a rogue cultivator who never felt quite like he belonged 😔

It's so goddamn tragic how much between these two was destroyed simply because they have such a different status in society and could never quite understand each other's perspective

And again, wwx just takes it 💔

Until, that is, lwj's honour gets besmirched

Don't fight in front of Shijie 🥺

Jiang Cheng's every action screams that he still loves his brother and that amidst all that pain for his lost family, is also deep betrayal and grieve for the brother he thought he could always count on 🥺💔

Can we appreciate for a second how much this shot tells us? From Jiang Cheng's angry desperation, to Wei Wuxian's quite acceptance of his rage (which must be so confusing to Jiang Cheng and probably hurt him even more. Because fighting is always how these two resolved their issues!) to Lan Wangji who is in full on protective mode (which I find more than heartwarming,but still think probably isn't helpful rn)

He ... what?

I still don't quite understand when exactly wwx's lack of golden core shows. Why does he have a nosebleed here?

What?

Oh!

Wen Ning 😱

I get what he wants to do!

Have we ever seen him this calm and determined before?

Abd they understand 😱😱😱

The look on all of their faces! Shiiiiit

I'm crying again

Oh wangii is crying 🥺

Wen Quing 💔💔💔 I'm crying even harder just looking at her. I've MISSED her 🥺

Lan Zhan your FACE!! 😭

The way he's looking at wwx in his arms, as if he's seeing him fir the first time

And by god, I can only imagine what he must be thinking

He must be reevaluation every single interaction they had since wwx started down the path of demonic cultivation 😭

I'm a bit in awe of Wen Ning here and how much he must have been holding in. That's the steadiest and most confident he's ever been

Oh Jiang cheng 💔

That looks like a man whose entire world has just been shaken to its core

And Lan Wangji is crying so much 🥺

God I hope he doesn't blame himself even more 🥺

Aaaaaaahhhh, so that is why he wouldn't just carry the sword for appearance sake and why he just had a nosebleed!

Jiang Cheng probably needs about a month to process all that :/

And therapy ...

Aaaaaaahhhh! The boat scene! I've seen gifs! 😍😍😍

A penny for Lan Wangji's thoughts ...

Oh I'm so so so so glad that Wen Ning gets to say thank you to the man who raised his ... cousin (?) :')

Oh god we get to see!!!!

Oh little a Yuan 😭😭😭😭😭😭

I wonder now, did Lan Qiren know who the child was that his nephew suddenly brought back to cloud recess?

I'm glad that we all learned from this that keeping secrets from the people we love, especially secrets that concern them personally, will eventually come back to bide us in the ass. Than you for delivering that important lesson, wen Ning!

Which reminds me that I hope they eventually tell wwx that they know 😬

I swear to god, one of these days I will melt from the gentleness in lan Wangji's gaze :')

Shit. He had to be awake? 😳

You can pinpoint the moment Lan Wangji's heart breaks for all the suffering wwx endured and how close he came to loosing him even then 🥺

Waking like that in you lovers arms in the middle of a lotus pond - that's the dream *sighs* (minus the passing out bit)

It's weirdly cute that wwx thinks that it's Jiang Cheng's insults that have lwj so upset 😅

Oh GOOOOD ...

I can't

The moment Yanli's themes started to play and she appeared I started to bawl 😭😭😭

And he's sharing the lotus pods with them ... oh please, lwj, please understand what he's saying. That's his pove language! His sister's food was how he received love and right now he passes it on to you! Please, please understand it! 🥺

Oh lwj, don't 🙈

Awwwwww ....

He's breaking the rules for you!!! Just to make you smile!!! 😭😭

And holy shit look at their expressions 😭

By now you should know that he's willing to break the rules for you :')

And poor third wheel Wen Ning 😂

Now there are glittering butterflies???

Do they have some kind of romantic aesthetic bingo going on in this episode???

Oh okay, messenger butterflies

Please appreciate wwx almost climbing into lan Wangji's lab in excitement :D

Thay scene transition was pretty af!

Hey! Why do they bully wen Ning? 😤

*shakes wwx by the shoulders* DO YOU GET THAT HE LOVES YOU NOW???

Huh, this episode was a roller coaster. you guys did NOT exaggerate! I loved it to pieces. I'm floored once more by all the actor's performances. Wen Ning revealed a lot about his character, Jiang Cheng broke my heart, Lan Wangji made it melt and Shijie is still able to make me bawl in an instant. But ... I'm not left with a bitter feeling. Sure, jiang Cheng and wei Wuxian havebt reconciled, but the truth is the first step to even have that possibility. Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji are both healing and whatever happens in the last 4 (4!!!😭) episodes, I'm not dreading it that much right now. I feel like we're climbing upwards :)

@sweetlittlevampire @fandom-glazed @elenirlachlagos @allhailthedramallama @luckymoony @kyrrahbird @i-love-him-on-purpose thank you guys for staying with me for this crazy ride 💙🖤💙

Also one last thing: please don't tell me what happens differently in the novel in any given scene. I am still reading it (about half way through rn) and I'd like to still be surprised by stuff like first kisses and love confessions 💙🖤

I should have put something like this at the end before, but I always forgot. That's on me 😅 so don't feel bad, if you've shared something before :)

#the untamed #sophie watches the untamed #wei wuxian #wwx #lan wangji #lwj #jiang wanyin #jiang cheng #jiang yanli #wen ning #a yuan #the untamed liveblog

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shadowtarot · 5 years ago

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Goro Akechi Deep Dive: The Child Unwanted By Society

This is my first time doing such a deep character Analysis like this, so hopefully I can do this justice.

Goro was born to an unnamed Sex Worker after Shido indulged in her services. Despite the kind of work his mother dealt with, his mother clearly tried to care for Akechi all the same. But she would often send him to the bathhouse alone while she “worked”.

Though, at some point in Goro’s life...his mother died. Presumably by suicide as his phrasing during the event he mentions it shows that he feels guilty for his mother’s death. Following this, Goro was tossed around from family member to family member....though not one of them even wanted to deal with the stigma of raising a Bastard Child, a thing seen as Taboo in Japanese society.

So when no blood relatives wished to take care of him, he made his movements through the foster care system. Though this too proved to not be a very healthy environment for him, and before starting High School Goro would leave the system under his own power to fend for himself.

He had always known, or had a solid gut feeling, why the only family of his took her life. It was because of the man that caused him to exist in the first place. Though as a kid, there was nothing Goro could do to stand up to a government official.

But during his First Year, Akechi was granted access to the Metaverse Navigator. It’s unknown what the first Palace he ever entered was, just that he awakened to Robin Hood in that time frame. Though Akechi didn’t quite know what to make of this power, or why he had it.

But he figured he could make use of this world to bring his father to justice. Though this personal feeling of anger would soon give birth to a second Persona....Loki.

Proving that he had the power to affect others using the Cognitive Realm, Shido decided to take a gamble and give Goro his first target: Wakaba Ishiki. If the studies she had on the Metaverse could prove any use, Shido could use his own personal inside man to “Clean up” unwanted people that bar him from his goal.

But the more Akechi learned about the way the Metaverse could be used, the more solid of a plan he had to enact revenge on the man who ruined his life.

After confirming he had a Palace, he knew what he could do...yet he hesitated.

Through the Psychotic Breakdowns he created with the personification of his true feelings, Goro became loved by the public as an Ace Detective who would solve this strange cases. While he would possibly justify this as waiting for the right moment to enact revenge on Shido, in reality...he was enjoying finally feeling wanted. Feeling accepted.

Even if it was all wrapped in manipulation.

He became attached to the attention, given how long he had gone without it. This in turn, began to warp his viewpoint on himself and on what his end goal would be.

Then, Kamoshida had a change of heart. In almost the same way the documents written by Wakaba described. Shido was already warry, demanding the Shujin principal look into it.

Then Madarame had a change of heart, causing Shido to lose a major source of fudning. Something was wrong...Akechi was losing the attention he had worked so hard to gain.

It’s at this time Goro would have a chance encounter with some very particular Shujin Students: Ryuji Sakamoto, Ann Takamaki and Ren Amamyia. Showing up for a Social Studies trip, the topic of the Phantom Thieves would come up, and of course Akechi stated how he didn’t completely trust their motives. Yet...Ren in the audience stated the opposite.

That this group helps people, and did more to protect the helpless then the Police did.

Becoming intrigued with him, Goro would stike a deal to speak more. Though really, he had a sinking suspicion about this seemingly nothing of a person.

But the more he asked him to hang out, the more Goro realized how much this kid had that he didn’t. Friends, a normal life (for the most part), and even a caretaker who seemed to care for him as if he were flesh and blood.

Following a hit request on Okumura, Goro would “team up” with the Phantom Thieves, all the while hoping that by getting them out of his hair...he could hopefully go back to his original plan.

Yet even within Sae’s Palace, Ren would prove just why he led the group. Which only further fueled the already growing rivalry he had with the thief.

So he attempted to beat him in a duel as they waited for the right time for the calling card, only to lose.

Killing him should have been simple.

Yet he survived, using his knowledge of the Metaverse. They were alive...and when Akechi recalled why Sae would show him that trash’s phone...he made a panicked hurry into his father’s Palace.

The place he should have gone into as soon as he knew it existed.

Yet they were already almost done with the infiltration route. They had what was needed to open the route to the treasure.

If Akechi just killed them...killed him....he could do it himself. He could force Shido to confess to all of Japan.

Yet no matter how hard he fought, their combined efforts resulted in his defeat.

Akechi was blinded by rage....and fear.

When his cognitive self appeared to finish him off, Goro gave up what little dignity he had...and entrusted his personal mission to the one person he knew could finish it.

Yet before he makes his last stand...the leader reminded him of their promise made after the duel.

To fight once more. And if they were to keep that promise...they should both live.

It was ridiculous, absurd to Akechi. Yet it clearly stated one thing...

He finally made a bond. Not because of any facilitates, but because he took a risk all those times they spoke...and was vulnerable.

And yet...he somehow found himself alive after the fact. Perhaps Ren had stayed cognizant of him, determined to keep their promise. Or perhaps he was just lucky.

He decided to make good on his new lease on life, and take Ren’s place to testify against Shido.

...yet not long after turning himself in he was seemingly released.

He found himself in a strange would, where he knew something was off. Going to Ren they both confirmed that something was wrong...that people who are supposed to be dead...are now alive.

But what did that mean for him? That thought rolled in his head as he went through a new Palace with his rival and his Kohai.

Running an investigation on it’s ruler...they moved forward... Goro now knowing one thing:

He’s not supposed to be alive. He’s supposed to be dead, death by his own cognitive replica within his father’s heart.

When he finally breaks the news to his rival, it’s clear he’s conflicted. Yet he holds strong to his convictions.

Akechi was not about to let anyone else control his life.

So following the heist...Akechi was fully prepared to die.

Only to once again wake up into a new day. Within his apartment he lived alone.

He still had questions. Why is he still here? Why won’t he just be allowed to die?

Perhaps it’s because of the promise he made with Ren that day...

One that has yet to be fulfilled.

#character deep dive #goro akechi #Persona 5 Royal Spoilers

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vaguely-concerned · 5 years ago

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I am reading the Rogue One visual guide and I’m going to ramble at you about it

Starting with Baze and Chirrut facts because nothing is more important than Baze and Chirrut

- The Guardians of the Whills believe very deeply in the Force but their cosmology doesn’t center any fight between light and dark and they believe mortal minds can ‘encompass the totality of the Force’ with the right training (seemingly even for non-Force sensitives). *thinks of a little green baby who’s going to need some help with his place in the universe one day and how reductive the light/dark side dichotomy can be* good to know good to know. yes everything eventually comes down to baby yoda and his poor stressed out dad. protect them

- “Opposites in balance. Chirrut Îmwe and Baze Malbus share a homeworld and a history, although they strike a compelling contrast. Baze is a hardened pragmatist, while Chirrut’s faith flourishes even in trying times. They both claim to act as the protector of the other.”

in every way they are #goals. bffs/partners to lovers is Everything. ‘They both claim to act as the protector of the other’ is very funny and very sweet and very true; my favourite thing

- this book describes chirrut as baze’s ‘best friend and moral compass’, which is a funny way of spelling ‘husband of 30 years’ but who am I to criticize

- baze is just. he’s so good. they say here pragmatism is his biggest trait but you can tell how much love has been at the center of him (and probably continues to be under it all) from the totality of his rage. I don’t think you can be this deeply hurt without loving just as deeply first. (like chirrut says, he used to believe more than anyone and now he’s thrown aside literally everything about the guardians except chirrut) it’s like he’s suffered a moral wound just seeing what’s happened to his home and it won’t heal and it never does, he just loses chirrut too and then at least it’s over. jesus christ it’s so soul crushingly sad in a quiet undramatic way

- “Though both are Guardians of the Whills, Baze and Chirrut could not be more different in their approach to combat. Traditionalist Chirrut still carries weapons associated with the ancient order, while Baze adopts an implement of modern warfare. Their methods suit them individually, and both are effective extensions of their distinctive personalities. Though Baze may chide Chirrut for his antiques, and Chirrut may decry Baze’s reliance on soulless tools, they trust each other’s defences to such weapons.”

THEY TRUST EACH OTHER’S DEFENCES TO SUCH WEAPONS. YOU HAD TO WORD IT LIKE THAT HUH. YOU HAD TO GO AND MAKE IT CLEAR THEY’RE EACH OTHER’S MOST IMPORTANT THING IN THE WHOLE WORLD. WHAT. THE FUCK

- it’s implied baze’s hair used to be shorter when he was a Guardian! he’s just let it grow past what’s customary for them (and an excellent choice too his hair is wonderful)

- his repeating blaster is described as ‘modified and highly illegal’ hahaha

it also weighs 30 kg and is meant to be mounted on a tank

baze is the best

- chirrut built his own lightbow! apparently used to be a thing the guardians did to symbolize the end of their training. I wonder if baze used to have one too? even more I wonder if they’ve always been part of the same uh ‘divisions’ or what have you within the guardians, because I think there are some implications that baze has been more of an assassin/focused on violent conflicts even before the empire came and chirrut hasn’t

- this book does not adequately capture chirrut’s trickster/funny side, making me wonder how much of that was an addition by the actor and how much was planned out

- honestly... more baze & chirrut (well baze/chirrut let’s not play here) prequel books WHEN. what does their living room look like (because we do know they live together) how did they meet, when exactly did baze lose his faith and chirrut his sight, what was their first kiss like

inquiring minds want to know (it’s me I want to know)

- unless the wording is deliberately misleading here chirrut was not born blind (though he won’t discuss how he ended up this way) and he’s learned his current fighting technique over a prolonged period of time

- bodhi is a bit of a gambling addict! and specifically one who’s pretty good at it; even after the empire knows he’s a defector he gets past their restrictions because he’s saved up all the credits/favours/even id-vouchers he’s owed by other imperial grunts fsdhfksdjf precious I love him

- saw gerrera’s medical droid a) has been modified so its programming won’t stop it from being able to dispense drugs at dangerous intervals, b) professes sheer bafflement that saw is still alive and c) is ‘frequently deactivated to prevent it from building an ethical case to discontinue treatment’. I find the whole thing darkly hilarious.

- there are literally whole subplots going on in the crowd scenes on Jedha about a mad evil surgeon who ‘decraniates’ people (essentially turning them into mindless servile husks with all of their head above the nose cut off, somehow), a masked cop from the Milvayne Authority who’s gone rogue to do the right thing and hunt him down against orders, a death cult, a bunch of different religious sects, a translation droid who has befriended a group of local orphans and shares his credits with them so they can eat and he’s SAVING UP FOR A PROCESSOR UPGRADE SO HE CAN BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND THE NATURE OF SPIRITUALITY ;_____; what the fuck I want a tv-series about this droid IMMEDIATELY

- this book shows you just how crucial K-2 is as an asset and what a masterstroke cassian’s reprogramming of him is... and it says some very, very sweet things about cassian as a person under all the trauma and spy stuff that he essentially treats him as his best friend instead of a tool. cASSIAN he deserved to survive and have SO much therapy ;_____; ah well at least we’re getting a prequel series about him right? pls be good

- oh cassian was a proper separatist during the clone wars! he probably has some very interesting points of view about the republic pre- and post empire huh (this is what I love about the clone wars era; they have built SUCH a believable and interesting political world here, all shades of grey. there were separatists with very valid points even thought they were lead by a guy named COUNT DOOKU played by CHRISTOPHER LEE, the first sign that you should look inwards and ask yourself... wait are we the bad guys)

- it’s so much more understandable to me now who in the rebel leadership is for following jyn’s plan and who is not. (namely: the ministers of finance and industry are both Not Into challenging the empire directly, kind of understandably)

in depth description of weapons technology... I sleep. deep dives into the political structure of the alliance leadership and their backgrounds and motivations? I have never been happier

(this. sort of should have been in the actual movie tho things would have made more sense)

- BAIL ORGANA Leia’s actual dad out there lookin’ fiiine, being righteous and good, almost making me forget he’s going to die SO SOON oh fuck :(

- orson krennic is, presumably straight faced, described as ‘a cruel but brilliant man’ which is PATENTLY LUDICROUS because krennic is by literally every indication a fucking idiot, he needs galen to do all the real work for him, he mouths off to DARTH VADER and then tarkin just effortlessly swoops in and fucks him over in the end, easily outmaneuvering him... orson krennic is a fucking loser I don’t care if he’s the one who introduced brutalist architecture to coruscant

lol lol lol *arrow pointing towards krennic’s head* ‘Keen mind dissects architectural puzzles and conspiratorial plots�� okay I see what happened here orson krennic wrote this book

- oh galen erso is kind of one of the most interesting and heartbreaking characters in all of star wars. (and I do not say this just because of mads mikkelsen’s cheek bones) he’s incredibly intelligent but from a really poor family and wanted to eliminate the difference between rich and poor and invent a new form of infinitely renewable energy... and technically he did achieve that, except his old college buddy orson krennic immediately found a way to use his technology for genocide and he didn’t realize until it was too late :’) there is something so comforting in the fact that in the end galen still got the last laugh in the most epic but unsung way. he’s the sort of quiet Magnificent Bastard who doesn’t even care he’ll never get the credit as long as it worked. u did good on that one jyn

also several of the scientists galen is leading on eadu are in the same category as him -- captured and forced to work for the empire. so that’s great and not at all upsetting

- galen and lyra’s falling in love story is kind of sweet (though naturally it pales against baze and chirrut’s whole deal but then who could compare) and the sheer effort and detail that’s gone into building the farmstead in the beginning we end up seeing for 5 minutes... dude (it feels very convincingly like somewhere a family would live though)

- *sees that ‘databook’ is a concept that exists apparently; groans in fic research I thought ‘holodisc’ might do the job but maybe this is a better fit*

- I will say that my largest gripe with this movie is how glaringly unnecessarily male it is. there’s literally no reason for most of the rebels and ESPECIALLY all of the scientists to be male but here we are.

well the stormtroopers could all canonically be any gender behind the armor so uh that’s. something lol

- despite being all desert-y jedha is apparently quite cool! temperature-wise I mean though the huge ancient statues lying everywhere are pretty awesome too

- wow stormtrooper armor really does just suck huh. it’s like ‘well it might protect you from a blaster bolt if you stand upwind and angle yourself just right, who knows’. I guess this is why everyone and their grandmothers are drooling over mando’s beskar lol

- star wars’ insistence on sticking to single-biome planets is so silly and I love it. stick to that incomprehensible world building decision lucasfilm I respect you

- mon mothma! basically the most important character in the star wars universe who most people won’t know about lol she’s like the anti-palps. for the most part she is one of the most Big Goods in all of star wars (along with bail) but also she’s played by the actress who voices moira in overwatch so I do instinctively distrust her whenever I hear her talk haha. called palpatine a ‘lying executioner’ to his face which is both admirably bold and remarkably restrained, considering all the things palpatine is.

- oof the two people mentioned the most on anakin/vader’s pages are palpatine and obi wan. that’s. hurtful and bad and awful. the greatest trick the devil ever pulled was making me watch ‘clone wars’ because watching ‘clone wars’ actually made me care about anakin skywalker :(

-ah shit this is a lot of pages about pasty empire dudes i’ll uh come back to these lol

#first post of 2020! keeping it on rambling brand into the new decade #star wars #rogue one #baze x chirrut #meta #if you're here for information about baze's hair and how overwatch has coloured my view of a star wars character...#boy have I got a post for you lol

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stevenuniversallyreviews · 6 years ago

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Episode 109: Last One Out of Beach City

“What if I told you that the world was gonna end, and you had fifteen minutes to spend with me or your friends?”

Steven and the Stevens and Hit the Diamond are my two favorite episodes of Steven Universe for reasons I’ve written about at length, but beyond encapsulating the essence of the series and characters and all that, it should be noted that they’re just plain fun. Last One Out of Beach City is smaller in scale, zeroing in on one of the show’s earliest defined relationships and basking in its evolution from a feud to a deep friendship, so it’s harder to use as a stand-in for the show as a whole. But even if it isn’t my third-favorite episode of the series, it stands hand in hand with my top two when it comes to the charm factor.

Last One Out of Beach City is a delight from start to finish. Jesse Zuke’s legendary “Bad Pearl” sketch comes to life in the best way imaginable, and Deedee Magno Hall solidifies her place as my MVP of a killer lineup of voice actors. Actual human being Mike Krol gets tossed into this alternate universe like it was nothing. Crimes are committed. Swears are censored by screeching tires. Juice is spat. Cups, spilt.

This is the promise of Zuke’n’Florido’s brilliant opening sequence of Beta fulfilled: Steven and some Gems hanging out not for half an episode, but an entire one. It’s got sight gags aplenty, supplementing some of the best comedy writing in the series, mixed with the soul-warming joy of watching characters we love getting along. So lest I just turn this review into gushing about individual jokes and lines and moments, let’s dive into why each character we see is terrific, starting with the scofflaw herself.

Last One Out of Beach City does for Pearl what Back to the Moon does for Amethyst and Mindful Education does for Garnet: we see the result of her character growth in Act II, and even if the Mystery Girl looks a lot like Rose, it’s still a huge step forward for our lady of perpetual mourning to develop a crush on someone new (and to be so low-key polite to Greg). The romantic subplot alone could drive an episode, but Pearl gets so many more hats than “girl with a crush” here: she’s a nerd, a badass, a criminal, and a middle-aged mom all at once. She vacillates between genuinely cool and desperately uncool until she fuses these extremes together to become a confident square; it’s perhaps Deedee Magno Hall’s best Pearlformance that doesn’t include singing, and that’s saying a lot. Between her voice acting, the lines themselves (“This is why we buckle up”), and the sheer sense of catharsis from seeing her choosing to move forward with her life, this is my favorite Pearl episode. And that’s saying a lot.

Pearl has always had a weird relationship with humanity. She's distant from modern culture compared to Amethyst, and her misunderstandings about human stuff is often played for laughs, but she’s also a crack car mechanic and is enamored with human concepts like knighthood. She’s not completely removed from society, but chooses not to engage unless something in particular catches her fancy. So it’s fascinating to see her associating moving forward with performing more human activities; she’s embracing Earth as it is, not as it was when the Gem War was raging, and she’s not letting lingering envy from Rose’s love of humans like Greg get in her way.

The reason this works so well is that it’s clearly performative, rather than an actual sudden personality shift. She’s still a homebody who likes puzzles and hanging out with her kid. She’s still snooty, both with her friends (dismissing the idea that anyone could be nostalgic for something as “new” as suburbs) and with her crush (“By the way, I saved your planet and your species and you're welcome”). And she’s still nervous as all get-out, but brave enough to push forward anyway.

Pearl’s maternal nature isn’t ignored, but used as fuel for her attempt at rebirth. There’s a huge difference between an awkward person putting themselves out there for the first time and a semi-retired hellraiser who, after settling into a comfortable groove, seeks to relive her glory days. She’s been dwelling on the negative for so long that she feels out of touch with her adventurous side, to the point where wearing pants and drinking juice is adventurous, but because we know Pearl so well by now we can actually appreciate how big of a deal these minor accomplishments are for her.

While it’s refreshing to see Pearl moving on from Rose, it’s perhaps even greater to see how far her relationship with Amethyst has come. While their longstanding rivalry softened during the Week of Sardonyx, we haven’t gotten them alone together since, and it just feels so nice to see Amethyst ribbing Pearl with that extra burst of sisterly affection, and Pearl loosening up enough to not take every slight personally.

As with Pearl, Amethyst works here because her personality hasn’t been erased; again, she’s still ragging on Pearl. The plot gets rolling because of Amethyst’s well-established fascination with humanity, and Pearl’s decision to see the show is prompted in part by wanting to impress Amethyst, something she never would’ve cared about in Season 1. And for all her teasing, Amethyst encourages Pearl every step of the way, not just out of solidarity but because she’s legitimately impressed.

And in a world where Pearl and Amethyst are egging each other on, Steven has to step up and be practical. I appreciate that his sense of responsibility and realism doesn’t make him a jerk or a brat, but more of a peer than ever among his fellow Crystal Gems. When pointing out the pink-haired elephant in the room, he’s not condemning or teasing Pearl: he’s just clearing the tension, and showing that he’s more aware of the situation than a younger Steven might have been. In this episode, Steven is the friend who looks for a gas station when his buds are freaking out about running out of fuel.

By now Steven feels comfortable with his place in the team, and with his relationships with Amethyst and Pearl as individuals. A version of this episode placed earlier in the series might’ve been about Pearl and Amethyst fighting for his attention, or Steven vying for attention from either of them, but by now he’s happy to do a puzzle with Pearl and to go to a concert with Amethyst, and there’s zero conflict. Immaturity shouldn’t be a go-to character beat anymore, and I love that Steven is acting his age.

Mystery Girl turns out to be more of a device than a character, as we never see her again. But I honestly think that’s fine; what matters is that Pearl is willing to put herself out there, and the result isn’t a new relationship with a new love interest but a new relationship with humanity. The Pearl of Bismuth Casual, hanging out with a posse of human friends and showing off her Gem powers with glee, owes everything to the Pearl of Last One Out of Beach City, and thus everything to Mystery Girl. Perhaps they had a thing at some point. Perhaps they still do have a thing. We don’t know, because Pearl has new hobbies outside of being a Crystal Gem, and that’s the victory.

An in terms of the show’s greater plot, if our new friend never gave Pearl her number, Pearl never would’ve gotten a phone, so A Single Pale Rose never would’ve happened. Perhaps one day he would’ve learned the truth, but certainly not before Yellow and Blue Diamond arrived to wage war on the planet. So thanks for saving the world, Mystery Girl!

The use of music from our universe lends Last One Out of Beach City a uniquely realistic tone compared to the rest of the series; perhaps any such music would do the trick, but a garage rocker is an apt choice for setting a grounded mood. We get a glimpse of Greg’s life outside of being a dad, as he socializes not only with Amethyst but Barb and Vidalia. The car chase lurches to reality when we learn that Pearl doesn’t have a driver’s license, and explicit references are made to the DMV and Pearl’s citizenship. It’s like knowing Steven’s exact age, or having Greg break his leg in Ocean Gem instead of getting a nondescript injury, or hearing Dr. Maheswaran describe PTSD using terms like “cortisol”: these concrete details make these characters feel more like real people. And considering this is a character-centric episode in a show where characters are pretty much always at the center anyway, that realism gives us a deeper connection to what our heroes are going through.

Pearl is by no means a teenager, and the critical element of reclaiming her mojo muddles direct comparisons to a teen protagonist, but the emotional honesty of Last One Out of Beach City makes me feel nostalgic, and not just for the suburbs. Driving around, not quite following the rules, and bouts of chasing meaning when you’re not as interested in traditional adolescent social activities? Those were my teenage years. I don’t always miss them, but this episode brings out the best of my memories.

There’s really not much else to say. I could spend another few paragraphs incoherently gushing about the writing and the animation and the voice work, but I promise the time you’d spend reading that would be better spent rewatching the episode. While I maintain my comparison to Beta, Last One Out of Beach City does stand in opposition to Peridot’s first Meep Morp: it has no functional purpose, it just makes me feel good.

Future Vision!

I already brought up how Mystery Girl’s number prompts A Single Pale Rose, but that episode itself shows that Pearl’s a lot slicker than she thought she was. That’s a lot of codes!

I’ve never been to this…how do you say…school?

Not sure why we get a Halloween-themed promo for an episode that has nothing to do with Halloween and aired in early September, but this is me not complaining about that. (Apparently it’s actually a reference to a Japanese tradition but I don’t watch enough anime to know more about that.)

We’re the one, we’re the ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

It’s not my third favorite, but this episode is really high up there. The cream of the crop are episodes that give me the purest emotional reactions: Mirror Gem nails dread, Lion 3 and Alone Together embody two different kinds of wonder, and Steven and the Stevens, Hit the Diamond, and Last One Out of Beach City just make me unspeakably happy.

Top Twenty

Steven and the Stevens

Hit the Diamond

Mirror Gem

Lion 3: Straight to Video

Alone Together

Last One Out of Beach City

The Return

Jailbreak

The Answer

Mindful Education

Sworn to the Sword

Rose’s Scabbard

Earthlings

Mr. Greg

Coach Steven

Giant Woman

Beach City Drift

Winter Forecast

Bismuth

When It Rains

Love ‘em

Laser Light Cannon

Bubble Buddies

Tiger Millionaire

Lion 2: The Movie

Rose’s Room

An Indirect Kiss

Ocean Gem

Space Race

Garnet’s Universe

Warp Tour

The Test

Future Vision

On the Run

Maximum Capacity

Marble Madness

Political Power

Full Disclosure

Joy Ride

Keeping It Together

We Need to Talk

Chille Tid

Cry for Help

Keystone Motel

Catch and Release

Back to the Barn

Steven’s Birthday

It Could’ve Been Great

Message Received

Log Date 7 15 2

Same Old World

The New Lars

Monster Reunion

Alone at Sea

Crack the Whip

Beta

Back to the Moon

Kindergarten Kid

Buddy’s Book

Like ‘em

Gem Glow

Frybo

Arcade Mania

So Many Birthdays

Lars and the Cool Kids

Onion Trade

Steven the Sword Fighter

Beach Party

Monster Buddies

Keep Beach City Weird

Watermelon Steven

The Message

Open Book

Story for Steven

Shirt Club

Love Letters

Reformed

Rising Tides, Crashing Tides

Onion Friend

Historical Friction

Friend Ship

Nightmare Hospital

Too Far

Barn Mates

Steven Floats

Drop Beat Dad

Too Short to Ride

Restaurant Wars

Kiki’s Pizza Delivery Service

Greg the Babysitter

Gem Hunt

Steven vs. Amethyst

Bubbled

Enh

Cheeseburger Backpack

Together Breakfast

Cat Fingers

Serious Steven

Steven’s Lion

Joking Victim

Secret Team

Say Uncle

Super Watermelon Island

Gem Drill

Know Your Fusion

Future Boy Zoltron

No Thanks!

5. Horror Club 4. Fusion Cuisine 3. House Guest 2. Sadie’s Song 1. Island Adventure

#last one out of beach city #steven universe #su #steven universally #review

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thedramaticfanatic · 5 years ago

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A Guide to Reading Jane Foster’s Story as Mighty Thor, and Beyond

OKAY, EVERYONE!!

I’ve noticed that there’s quite a bit of excitement out there for the upcoming Thor: Love and Thunder film that’s coming out 2021 (so far awaaaaay...!), and I’m super pumped for it. Which is quite unusual for me, because I got bored of all the superhero films years ago and stopped watching them. But for this one, I am heading right back in.

Anyway, this film appears to be at least somewhat based off of the Mighty Thor comic series in which Jane Foster takes up the mantle of Thor after the first Thor becomes unworthy. If you’d like to read the comics before the movie comes out but don’t know where to start, this is the post for you!

First things first, if you read this series you could be getting quite a few spoilers before you go see the movie, so do keep that in mind beforehand. With each issue I put up, I’ll also put the price, and the link to that comic on Marvel’s website for easy access.

You can read comics that came before this if you’d like to, and there are comics in-between the ones I’m going to list that will allow you to enjoy even more adventures with Mighty Thor. However, those are just for extra fun. The issues on this list deal specifically with Mighty Thor, and in my opinion, you don’t need to read anything else to fall in love with this arc.

A Little Background to the Story...

... Before this comic begins so you have a good idea of what’s happened prior to this. So in the early comics, Thor had been banished to Midgard (Earth) by Odin for his arrogance and selfishness, and his form became that of Dr. Donald Blake, a crippled doctor. His nurse was Jane Foster. The two of them were in love, and when regained his form as Thor, the relationship continued.

Eventually, the two wanted to make things permanent, and Thor asked for Jane to be granted immortality and goddess-hood so they could be together forever. Odin objected, and made Jane go through a test to prove her worthiness. If she succeeded, she’d become a goddess and she and Thor would marry. Jane failed, and was sent back to earth with her memories of Thor erased. Jane eventually fell in love with a human doctor and married him. Thor eventually started dating Sif.

Fast forward many issues later, Jane eventually gets her memories back, she divorces her husband and looses custody of her child. Thor and Sif break up (they’d been very off-and-on and he’d seen quite a few other women). Jane’s ex-husband and child both die in a tragic car accident, and she discovers she has breast cancer. Thor invites her to Asgard to join the “Congress of Worlds”, which is like the United Nations of the 10 Realms of Yggdrasil. Jane accepts the position, but chooses not to accept magical treatments for her cancer because she believes (with good reason) that all magic comes with a price.

During this time, Thor and Jane have remained very close, good friends, but have not rekindled their old romance. It’s implied at many different points that they both have deeper feelings for each other, but neither of them bring it up.

That’s really all you need to know at this point to really understand the meat of the story. So now let’s dive into the good stuff!

The comics that you’ll want to read are in the list below, and in following order:

Thor: Volume I, Goddess of Thunder

Price for digital copy - $8.99

This is where the story truly begins. It starts off with Thor suffering a massive identity crisis as he discovers that he is unworthy to lift Mjölnir, sending him into a deep depression. It gets worse when someone ELSE claims the hammer, and becomes Mighty Thor. Naturally, he is not happy at this turn of events.

Thor: Volume II, Who Holds the Hammer?

Price for digital copy - $6.99

A great war is brewing on the horizon thanks to the dangerous pacts between the king of the Dark Elves, Malekith, and other dangerous peoples. Meanwhile, Thor, now calling himself Odinson, tries to learn the identity of Mighty Thor (I’m sure it comes as a great shock to you all that it’s not who he thinks it is).

At the end of this issue, the readers learn who this new Goddess of Thunder is.

The Mighty Thor: Volume 1, Thunder in Her Veins

Price for digital copy - $8.99

Mighty Thor faces enemies on three fronts; the bloodthirsty, warmongering King Malekith, who seeks domination over all the realms. All-Father Odin, who sees her as a thief of his son’s birthright. And finally, the cancer, which kills her a little more each time she returns to her mortal form of Jane Foster.

The Mighty Thor: Volume 2, Lords of Midgard

Price for digital copy - $12.99

As if Mighty Thor doesn’t have enough on her plate, now S.H.I.E.L.D. is after Dr. Jane Foster as well. They don’t care for secret identities, and they plan to make her life miserable until she confesses. It couldn’t come at a worse time though, as Mighty Thor must also stop a floating fortress from crashing down onto New York City by saving the incredibly corrupt Roxxon CEO Dario Agger.

The Mighty Thor: Volume 3, Asgard/Shi’ar War

Price for digital copy - $12.99

In the midst of the terrible War of the Realms, Mighty Thor is abducted by mysterious deities who wish to pit their powers against the Goddess of Thunder to see who is the most powerful. In order to get back to the war, she must humor these gods and bring the full might of both Thor and Mjölnir to the table.

The Mighty Thor: Volume 4, The War Thor

Price for digital copy - $8.99

When the War of the Realms claims lives that should never have been touched by battle, the gentle Volstagg is left heartbroken and shattered. In his grief, he takes hold of a hammer made from the rage and fury of a dead universe, and becomes the War Thor. Mighty Thor must stop his righteous rampage before he destroys friends and enemies alike in his battle-rage.

The Mighty Thor: Volume 5, The Death of the Mighty Thor

Price for digital copy - $15.99

The cancer that has been growing within Jane Foster has weakened her to the point of death. Her dearest friends convince her to relinquish Mjölnir for the sake of her own life, but it seems the universe is against her. When the terrible Mangog awakes to judge and destroy the gods, Jane must weigh the worth of the deities- including Odinson- against her own life.

With volume 5, Jane’s time as Thor is (pretty much) ended. I would imagine that if Taika Waititi wants to pull mainly from the comics, he’ll pull mainly from the 7 volumes listed above. But those are not the end of Jane Foster’s adventures by any stretch of the imagination.

If you like the comics above and want to continue Jane’s story, I would suggest continuing on to the comics below. They detail the conclusion to the War of the Realms, Jane’s road to recovery and the role she continues to play, as well as what happens to her afterwards.

So the total arc for War of the Realms is 6 issues long, and currently you have to purchase each issue individually (like I had to) for $4.99. However, you can pre-order the digital collection edition, which has all 6 issues together. It will be released on August 14th 2019, and you’ll have immediate access to it. Unless you want each edition individually, I’d suggest going the more economic route and just order the collection.

War of the Realms

Price for digital copy of collection edition- $10.99

After the defeat of the Mangog, the God of Thunder reclaims the name of Thor, and Jane can focus on healing and recovering. But her part is far from over, as the War of the Realms reaches even Midgard, leaving destruction and death in its wake. Freyja names Jane Foster as All-Mother of Asgard as she goes forth to do battle, and Jane must guide both gods and mortals alike in order to survive the onslaught.

While Jane is no longer the main character, she plays a very important part as both All-Mother, and temporarily as Mighty Thor. It also wraps up the war that we get so invested in previously.

Thor, Issue 15

Price for digital copy - $3.99

Odin has passed the title of All-Father onto his son, Thor, who has reclaimed Mjölnir and learned the lesson that he needed to in order to keep hold of it. Loki, having slain his father King Laufey the Ice Giant, has now inherited his throne and reconciles with his adopted family.

Meanwhile, the remains of the hammer of War Thor, forged from a dead universe, seems to have attached itself quite permanently to Jane Foster. While she no longer carries the title of Thor, apparently fate has bigger plans for her than practicing medicine.

You can consider Thor #15 the final chapter for the War of the Realms saga, as far as the Thor group is concerned. It has a fantastic transition for what happens next to everyone in War of the Realms: Omega.

War of the Realms: Omega

Price for digital copy - $4.99

Finally, the War of the Realms is over. Malekith’s afterlife in Hel promises to be an eternal torment, Loki makes a friend in his new kingdom of Jotunheim, and the Punisher embarks on a new mission. And finally, Jane’s new mission is revealed, as she takes up the mantle as the newest, and currently only, Valkyrie.

If you want to continue to read about Jane Foster and her many future adventures, worry not! She now has her own Valkyrie comic book series! Currently only one issue has been released, but there’s four planned so far, and hopefully many (many) more to come!

Valkyrie: Jane Foster, Issue 1

Price for digital copy - $3.99

Jane Foster- former nurse, current doctor, cancer survivor, former Thor, and current Valkyrie. During the War of the Realms, all the Valkyries who should have guided the souls of the honored dead to Valhalla have themselves been slain in battle. With no one to open the doors to the afterlife and guide their souls, Jane Foster takes up the mantle as the only Valkyrie, along with all the challenges that entails.

At her side is the remains of the War Thor’s hammer, which has revealed itself to the be the Undrjarn, the All-Weapon. This mystical weapon seems bound to Jane, and only Jane, and has the ability to turn into any weapon or tool she requires at any moment. The only problem is, Jane knows what she’s supposed to do, but isn’t sure of how exactly she’s supposed to do it.

It’s been years since I actually subscribed to any comics. Its been so long since any of them really pulled to me. But you can bet your bottom dollar that I am subscribed to the Valkyrie and Loki series, and if you’re wondering whether or not the other comics are all worth the price...

I’d say they 100% are. They tell a truly beautiful story, and I LOVED IT. I know that it’s pricey to get all of them at once (trust me, do I know), but personally, I think it’s more than worth it. Each book alone is quite reasonably priced, and it's all so much fun to read. Plus, this entire arc that I’ve just laid out for you has been going on since 2014. And the movie itself isn’t coming out until November 2021. So I say take your time and enjoy yourself. The comics aren’t going anywhere. And hopefully, neither is Jane Foster.

I totally hope Jane and Thor go somewhere though, I mean, MY GOD, they’re absolutely perfect together at this point, AND THERE IS SO MUCH TENSION. I love them so much. I’ve been totally cemented as an unrepentant Thorster shipper now.

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mountphoenixrp · 5 years ago

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We have a new citizen in Mount Phoenix:

Nylah Jang, who is known by no other name; a 28 year old daughter of Set. She is a dancer at Minx.

FC NAME/GROUP: heize CHARACTER NAME: nylah jang AGE/DATE OF BIRTH: 28 / june 1, 1991 PLACE OF BIRTH: vienna, austria OCCUPATION: dancer @ minx

PERSONALITY: hello, welcome to the worst person you’ll ever meet, following closely behind her own father. nylah jang is a lovely young woman with a penchant for…dark habits.

detached, cold, emotionless ━ except when she isn’t. silver tongued with equally velvet fingers, the daughter of chaos has a talent of playing the role of any character to get her victims anyone to bend to her will. mask after mask, she slips them on and off with ease. if you manage to look past the seductive smirk and alluring eyes to find the vat of pure void…well, sweetheart, you won’t be alive for very long.

just enough to see her tower over you with the only flicker of true joy in those pitch black eyes as she watches you writhe on the floor in terror and pain until you pass out from shock. it’s as if she feeds on the fear. makes her stronger.

she feels no remorse, and doesn’t care to think about it. why should she? everyone is below her. worthless. trash. just play toys for her. nylah wants everything in the world, and she will do anything to get that. she plays with mortal lives as if they’re nothing, as if the people around only have one purpose: to serve her.

nylah’s done terrible things; torture, murders of varying styles. a short and very general list of things that she is quite proud of.

personal relationships are nonexistent in her world, simply a waste of her time. any resemblance of one is either a ploy to get what she wants, or ━ yeah, no, that’s it.

HISTORY: (tw: murder, torture, and animal abuse)

I. a mother weeps as she holds her child for the first time. it is a sob of a despair, drops of bitter salt at the sight of the creature in her arms. it stares at its creator silently.

her name is nylah, and she is a curse. the ever present reminder of a stroke of black ink across her past.

she does not release a cry, nor does she reach out for her sobbing mother. the infant simply stares.

she knows of her purpose.

II. the daughter of chaos is three years old when she makes her first kill. it’s a small, sad pathetic thing that hangs lifeless in her hands. a kitten, she thinks. the incessant sounds it made had irked her to no end, and nylah found a solution. she does not understand why her mother is screaming. she wishes she would shut up.

III. gabriel schmidt is his name; the man that manage to charm and seduce his way into the bed of nylah’s mother. in some way, nylah can understand why his mother is so willing to drop her panties for the first man that gives her any attention. it’s been ten years since the last time she got fucked. ten years since she’s been born.

she hates him.

she hates everything about him.

how dare he insert himself into nylah’s life? without her permission.

nylah would have preferred if the man got his dick wet once and walked away without a regret. the loud sobbing of her mother would be a grating sound, but the bitter scent of despair and sadness would be intoxicating. instead, all she could smell was the sickly sweet syrup of love.

the pile of dead animals in the backyard grows larger each week.

IV. she sees the way her mother stares at her.

MISTAKE MISTAKE MISTAKE

nylah stares back with eyes that speak of chaos and darkness and death. she smiles.

EVIL EVIL EVIL

her mother does not look her in the eye.

V. mina schmidt is her name; the squealing red-faced thing that apparently shares blood with her. nylah looks at it with disgust, sneering down at the wriggling baby. she doesn’t know why her mother looks at it with such adoration; she’s never looked at nylah that way.

the next day she writes out her sister’s name on the side of the house in the blood of mutilated birds. love thy family.

nylah giggles at the screams that erupt from her mother and the husband as they discover the bloody message on their home; she savors the fear that seeps from their souls. the girl finds that it is the most delicious thing she has ever tasted.

she decides that she wants more.

VI. the sight of the boy curled on the floor before her is the greatest she’s ever had the pleasure to lay her eyes on. tears are streaming down his face, expression twisted in agony as he screams out. he’s begging her for mercy, apologizing over and over; nylah simply smiles at him.

lifeless, pitch black eyes suddenly come to life.

she would be lying if the waves of pure terror rolling off the boy didn’t turn her on. there’s a growing dampness in between her legs as she watches him claw at her feet, offering up anything to make her stop. it’s pathetic, how people are willing to give away their dignity in order to save their own skin. besides, nylah knows that she wouldn’t be able to stop; the swirls of chaos around her have already latched on to the girl and they’ve tasted the first blood. it’s too late.

it’s oh so easy to slip into the depths of his mind and bring out the deepest fears and sins to light. claws prod and poke at his thoughts, suffocating him until all she can breathe, see, and hear is fear.

nylah twists and squeezes his mind to her will, melting it into putty until finally her grip on him lets go. he’s laying in a puddle of his own piss and tears. she cocks her head to the side, lips curling into a smirk.

❝ do you fear me now? ❞

he vomits and passes out.

and nylah ━ a realization dawns upon her. she has the power to do what she wants; to terrorize and raze the earth. take and take and take until everything is hers, because who can stop her? she is god.

thus begins the fall.

VII. nylah is eighteen now.

her body count: 12

those were only the ones who weren’t strong enough to make it through the enlightenment. that’s what the daughter of chaos calls it ━ diving deep into mortal ears and twisting and turning and feeding on their terror until the only thing they wish for is death, and the only person who can give them that sweet mercy is her. until she becomes both their savior and greatest fear.

❝ do you fear me now? ❞

THE ENLIGHTENMENT.

A GOD.

OBEY.

VIII.

her family is next. nylah can barely scrounge up any love for them; it’s a disgusting concept: love.

it’s all too simple.

gabriel, with his mind so easy to mold and play with. she whispers to the man in his sleep, sleek claws sinking into the brain of a pathetic mortal.

KILL KILL KILL

nylah goes deeper.

MURDER MURDER MURDER

and everything snaps.

IX. BREAKING NEWS ; MAN MURDERS WIFE AND DAUGHTER IN RAGE

this is channel ten with breaking news. police reports have confirmed that forty three year old gabriel schmidt went into a flying rage and brutally stabbed his wife and eight year old daughter twenty times each. afterwards, he took his own life.

we have updates that there was a single survivor.

his stepdaughter, nylah jang.

X. it has been ten years. she’s fucked and killed her way to the top, manipulating everyone around her until she’s filthy rich and swimming in luxury. chaos has unfurled from deep within, taking root as a deep and vile disease. the daughter of chaos has long been rotting from the inside out.

she’s traveled the world, leaving a wake of sin and utter wickedness ━ and she can’t get enough.

nylah has just been reaching the peak of boredom, until she finds a particularly interesting new victim friend. in a state of panic and desperation, the boy quickly calls himself a son of aphrodite. nylah pauses in curiosity; a demigod? she’s heard of the myths, but tossed them away as frivolous fairy tales.

another prod of the sniveling boy’s brain confirms the truth; a whole island full of….immortals and half-immortals alike. for the first time in a very long time, nylah finds herself excited. fresh meat.

and perhaps a way to get herself truly enlightened.

LOOK TO YOUR KINGDOMS

I AM COMING FOR THEM ALL

PANTHEON: Egyptian CHILD OF: Set

POWERS:

chaos manipulation : the power to manipulate the chaotic forces of the universe

001. chaos inducement: cause chaos in any scale, from minor disorder, confusion and/or disobedience, up to causing massive storms, destruction, loss of laws and order to cause mass panic, etc.

002. chaos empowerment: become stronger, faster, more durable, etc. by/from chaos

emotion manipulation: the power to manipulate emotions

001. fear: manipulate the fear of people, animals and other creatures, whether by increasing, causing or otherwise channeling fear

002. anxiety: manipulate the anxiety of people, animals and other creatures, whether by increasing, causing or otherwise channeling anxiety

003. insanity: manipulate the insanity of people, animals and other creatures, whether by increasing, causing or otherwise channeling insanity

mental manipulation : the power to manipulate thoughts, mindsets, and upper brain functions of others.

001. this ability is highly limited, and only applies to her before mentioned abilities. she is able to slip into the minds of others to see their deepest fears to manipulate them to her will; though if a mental barrier is too strong, she will not be able to invade the mind. if that is the case, nylah is able to cause and manipulate fear, but isn’t able to see what exactly her victim’s fear is.

002. by slipping into their mind, she is able to whisper certain encouragements amongst other things to toy with her playthings

STRENGTHS:

+ eloquent and charming

+ highly manipulative, she’s able to smoothly exploit and control almost anyone

+ quite the actor, nylah can put on any mask to play whatever game she wants to achieve the end…whatever the means

WEAKNESSES:

- falling into a spiral of insanity that will soon make her lose his grip on reality

- terribly power hungry, which may be her downfall

- an immature child that throws fits whenever things don’t go her way

#kpop rp #krp #heize #jang dahye #mp; welcome

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5hfanfiction · 6 years ago

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Be Exemplary ( Chapter One )

AU: What happens when someone you looked up to turns out to be someone completely different after a few years?

(very slight trigger warning of sexual harassment and fighting/bullying)

6 year-old Camila Cabello had her eyebrows furrowed as the grip on her red colour pencil tightened when she attempted to colour in the lines of a parrot. Dressed in yellow overalls over a pink shirt, her hair tied up into pigtails; she coloured her parrot to perfection (well, it was perfect in her eyes). She stuck her tongue in between her teeth as a small smile stretched across her face when she held her piece of art in front of her face for further inspection. It was a perfect way to spend her recess time. So what if she had to deceive a few teachers to sneak back into the classroom to colour a parrot? She had eaten her PB&J in a matter of minutes anyway.

However, the sudden flurry of commotion and voices booming from outside the classroom caught her attention. She walked over to the window to look outside; only to find a small boy on the ground with a green-eyed girl standing over him with her arms crossed over her chest. The girl’s blue jeans had a bit of dirt on it and she was sporting an alarmingly scary look for a seven year old. Camila recognized her; she would’ve recognized those green eyes anywhere.

She remembered her first day in school, and she remembered seeing her in the canteen. Another girl had rudely cut in front of Camila in the line to get food; her blonde hair whipping in Camila’s face as she sported a smug look in her all pink-ensemble. The green-eyed girl (who was apparently) behind Camila huffed angrily as she stepped out of line and pulled on the blonde hair in front of her. Her eyes caught Camila’s for a split second and the brown-eyed girl was rooted to the spot. Surely enough, there were a lot of hair-pulling and tantrums thrown and teachers had to break up the fight between both girls. Camila simply watched with wide eyes at the scene in front of her; wondering if this was how school supposed to be like.

The boy on the ground quickly got up and ran away from the green-eyed girl as she simply stared him down.

“Lauren!” shouted a doe-eyed plump teacher nearby who couldn’t get to the scene fast enough. “Are you trying to get in trouble again?” the plump teacher scolded her as she gripped her elbow and pulled her into school; undoubtedly to call her parents.

Lauren, so that’s her name, thought Camila. The 6 year-old was rather intrigued with the fiery character of Lauren. The girl seemed to be standing up for other kids; and that made Camila somehow ashamed of how shy and passive she truly was. She didn’t know if she admired her, or was scared of her.

A few days later, Lauren slapped the same boy she had thrown to the ground. “You can’t call people that, Tom, I thought I told you that already” she had quipped with her squeaky but definitive voice, eyes full of rage.

“So what, Jauregui! My parents said that girls should love boys and those who don’t are dykes,” yelled back Tom as his face turned red from all the attention he was getting from a number of other kids that stood in the school hallway. Lauren’s face hardened and her nose flared. She was about to shove him, but was abruptly stopped by Mrs. Degeneres who grabbed her arm.

“Okay, the both of you are coming with me to the Principal’s office right now,”

“But she was the one who started it-” countered Tom but quickly shut his mouth when Mrs. Degeneres gave him a withering stare. She herself had killer green eyes, and Camila faintly heard her whisper to Lauren; catching a sentence that sounded like “you don’t need to defend me, Lauren,” as she hastily dragged both of the 7 year-old away from the hallway and curious eyes.

After an hour, it was recess time and Camila sat alone outside the school near the playground. She watched on as kids her age played as she was in very deep thought about the whole Lauren situation.

Jagooey? What was her last name again? Camila silently pondered as she tired to recall the words Tom had spat at the green eyed girl. Having a lack of friends usually made Camila analytical and perspective to those around her. It was only because she was shy; however, she did make some eye-contact with a few of her classmates, so there was nothing to worry about. She’ll make friends…eventually.

And dyke….. What does that word even mean? What has girls loving each other have to do it?

Camila concluded that Lauren must be really smart or a genius or something to know what that word meant and crucially, the appropriate use of the said word.

Suddenly, a car door slam snapped her out of her thoughts. She saw a black car that looked posh parked in front of the school and walking a few feet in front of it was a man that looked incredibly familiar; like Camila had seen him on TV or something. He had a black suit on, and he was a little bit big-sized. His beard was covering half his face, and made him look quite like a bear ( in Camila’s eyes).

A few minutes later, the same man walked out with Lauren by his side. He didn’t look angry, just a little bit frustrated. Lauren had her head hung low as the man kissed her forehead and got into the car and drove away. Camila was too far away to hear anything; but she was still staring at the duo. Ultimately, concluding that that man was her father. Suddenly overcome with compassion, Camila trudged over to the green-eyed girl; tapping her on the shoulder to get her attention.

The green-eyed girl turned around then; tearing her eyes away from the road her dad’s car just took off on.

“Hi. You’re Lauren right? Are you okay?” asked Camila; knowing that there was a high possibility that Lauren was scolded. Also, because her nose was red and her eyes were watery.

Lauren wiped her nose and gave Camila a small smile. “Yeah, I’m okay. My father just gave me his usual lecture,” she sniffled then.

Camila nodded, her heels rocking back and forth. “Have you eaten yet? There’s only a few minutes left of recess,” enquired the doe-eyed girl; wanting to know more about the mysterious character in front of her. Maybe, she could finally make a friend.

Lauren simply shook her head then, giving her a small smile. “Nah, i’m not hungry. Tom ruined my appetite,”. Camila really wanted to ask her what dyke meant but she held her tongue; she didn’t want to stick her nose into other people’s business.

“Well, okay then. Would you like to come swing with me?” Camila shyly asked her. Her bottom lip caught between her teeth. It was a leap for friendship since she started school a couple weeks ago. Lauren simply smiled at her and nodded; both of them giggling away to the swings for the last few minutes of recess.

—

Once the school bus dropped Camila off at her house, she was ready to tell her mother all about the friend she finally made in school today; excitement filling her veins. However, she was greeted with both her parents seated at the dining table; which was unusual because her dad worked until 8 p.m.

Her small curious eyes widened with surprise when her parents announced with booming voices that they would be moving to New York for her dad’s work. He had gotten a promotion at a new branch in the company that he was working for, and they were leaving tomorrow. Her mom had happy tears running down her face as she engulfed Camila in a hug; soon followed by her dad.

Camila knew that her family wasn’t poor, but they also weren’t so well off. A pit of bitterness settled in her stomach as she thought about a whole new city, a whole new group of friends and a lack of a green-eyed one.

However, the happiness on their faces was contagious. Camila hid her disdain under a smile because she couldn’t shake the feeling of loss as she thought about a certain girl with emerald eyes. She would have to start at a new school all over again, but if her parents were happy, she would be too.

“We don’t know how long we would be there honey, but this is a great opportunity for us as a family” her mother cajoled Camila as she rocked the toddler back and forth in her arms; knowing that change was always scary for her daughter.

—

(11 years later)

“Girl, be happy you got out of this hellhole”

Camila chuckled into her phone that was held in between her ears and shoulder as she hastily pulled on her jeans over her long legs. She walked across her new room and dived into a box that was labelled “C’s clothes”.

“Ari, how could i be happy when you’re not here?” cooed Camila to her best friend, Ariana Grande, on the other line. She quickly pulls on a light blue crop top when she hears the distinct voice of her mom yelling from downstairs that she’s going to be late for her briefing on her first day at her new high-school.

“Okay, before you can answer that i’m gonna be seriously late for my briefing if i keep entertaining your lame-ass excuses,” she quips to Ariana; already imagining the eye-roll in her head.

“Okay sweet ass, i’ll talk to you later, and tell me if you find anyone cute alright? Don’t keep all the hot ones to yourself okay? It’s selfish and i’m your friend, and sharing is caring-”

“Lord, Ari, i hear you okay,” Camila chuckled into her phone. Her friend was something else. “Also, in what world am i hogging the hot ones? You’re talking to the girl who has been a lip-virgin for 17 years,”

“Girl, just because you’re weird and incapable of noticing the hot ones doesn’t mean that they don’t notice you,” Ariana argues back. Camila could only shake her head to herself and end the call with “I love you bitch, don’t miss me too much”.

Once she fixes her long brown hair to the best of it capabilities, she rushes downstairs to find both her parents at the dining table; unbearable tension building between the both of them. It’s been like this for weeks and Camila hates it. Her father with a newspaper in his hand; barely acknowledging her existence as she gives her mom a kiss on the cheek and grabs an apple on the way out of the house; yelling “see you later, mom,”.

Her heart burns when she leaves the house thinking of her dad and his nonchalance. It was because of him they had to leave New York and come back to Miami; back to her father’s old company’s branch which was barely alive. How could he be so calm? How could he pretend like he didn’t just stick a wedge in a life that she was happy in? She was doing perfectly fine in New York. She had made a considerable amount of friends and her grades were at the top of the class. Her previous high school had an amazing priority for art and encouraged students to test out their talents; and, this is how Camila realised that she loved music. She sang her heart out and managed to snag a spot in the Choir Club. It was her life; she was finally building a life that was suited for her.

She was finally finding herself, finding a common ground where both her feet could land; so, of course the universe had to rain on her parade and shift her world on its axis once again.

Apparently, her father had a few sexual harassment complaints filed against him. She still remembered how much her outlook on her dad changed that day. It was like she didn’t know him anymore. Her admiration and love for him quickly turned into disgust and hate. The light in her mom’s eyes dimmed as if her soul was trying to numb the pain she felt. However, because he had been working for the company for over 15 years and was one of the best workers they had ever had, the company took pity on him and moved him back to the previous branch he was in.

Her dad did disgusting things, and he didn’t even seem sorry about it. Not once did she hear an apology come out from his mouth; only his solemn face as Camila’s mom badgered him with questions on “how could he do this to the family?”. The ride back to Miami was suffocating and the whole transition was incredibly fast for Camila to endure. However, because of her friends, Ariana especially, she had managed to siphon all her anger towards him and not the situation she was in. She had asked her mom to do something about her horrible situation, but her mom could only mumble about ‘honor’ and ‘marriage’ and ‘family’.

She cried herself to sleep many times; majorly confused about the whole situation and the turn her life had taken.

She couldn’t wait to graduate and get out of the house.

And maybe bring her mom along.

—

“-and this is your timetable, are you clear with everything i have told you so far, Ms. Cabello?” asked the clerk in the Principal’s office.

Camila nodded quickly; grabbing the sheets of paper that was being handed to her by the clerk. The briefing ended pretty fast; lasting not longer than 10 minutes. “Well, then i guess you could be escorted to your class now i’m sure that your teach- hey, Normani!” Camila jumped out of her skin because of the sudden yell and turned around to see a gorgeous ebony-skinned girl enter the office with a pearly white smile. She eyed her for a second before bringing her attention back to the clerk.

“This is Normani,” she gestured towards the girl on her left, “She’s the head of publicity on the Student Council and she sometimes helps newbies like you to get around. Since you’re a junior and you kind of know how high school works, she’ll just help you get to class. Miami High isn’t that big so you can’t get lost in it, if anything, just ask around, i’m sure the students here will be happy to help you,” the clerk informed Camila in a sweet tone.

Trying to process all the information, Camila simply nodded at the clerk with a smile before she turned her attention to Normani. “Cmon, newbie, let’s get you to class,” the dark-skinned girl flashed her a smile before walking out of the office with Camila by her side.

So far, so good, Camila thought to herself.

—

Normani was beautiful, like the type of beautiful that made you take a second look; and, Camila was having a hard time looking away from the older girl as she went on and on about the Student Council. Camila always had a hard time not staring at attractive people, though she never acted on any of it.

For Camila, her sexuality was not definitive. She didn’t want to put a label on herself because she found herself being attracted to both genders as she grew up and she couldn’t do anything about it. She had asked her mom about it when she reached puberty and her mom could only smile and tell her to love who she loved. She realised later on how lucky she was for getting a reaction like that from her mom when she had heard horror stories from her friends back in New York about how kids were thrown out from their homes or bullied to death just because of their sexuality.

She really didn’t think it was a big deal. A person’s sexuality is for themselves, and only for themselves to own.

“-once a year. We have all sorts of events planned so don’t be shy and participate! We have sports clubs, drama clubs, glee clubs-”

“Wait, did you say glee clubs,…and drama clubs?” Camila’s attention suddenly peaked at the mention of her passions.

Normani turned to smile at her then; tucking a strand of hair behind her ears. “Yes, we do. Every year, they collaborate to make a play. Like, last year was “West Side Story” and i hear that this year it’s going to be “Grease”. Auditions are coming up pretty soon so keep an eye out for posters or fliers or any of the kind,” she informed Camila with her hands gesturing to the walls. The hallways were filling with people. Curious eyes followed Camila, amd she felt herself flush.

So, this is what it feels like to be the new-girl again, Camila thought to herself.

“Okay, before i talk your ear off, your first class is AP Literature and its in classroom R126. Because you are here early, you still have 20 minutes more till class so maybe i can show you around a bit more?” asked Normani; her eyebrows lifting up. Camila looked at her watch and saw that it was 7.45, and she decided that she still had time.

“Yeah sure,” she answers with a megawatt smile which Normani returns. She patted her elbow and lead her along a hallway that leads to the cafeteria. Then, they went to the library where Normani declared the end of their mini tour and decided to head Camila in her class’s direction so she wouldn’t be late. The first person she met today wasn’t a complete douche and was actually friendly! Maybe it could be easy to make friends around here.

“So, now that my mandatory duties are over, tell me about yourself,” nudged Normani with a lopsided smile. Camila looked over to her and pulls at the hem of her crop top in nervousness. “Oh well, um, i just moved her from New York, but um, i grew up here, i was in Miami till i was 6,” explained Camila while scratching the back of her neck. She continued with the basics of her life while her eyes train ahead of her in the hallway; slowly taking in the people and classrooms around her.

After a few moments, her sentence stopped mid-air as she eyed a group of jocks by the lockers. They were all wearing varsity jackets with big yellow “MH” sewed on top of it while they simply talked to each other. They were all lean and tall and just plain handsome, especially that one boy near the water-

“Wow, so i guess you found the jocks,” chuckled Normani as she slows down beside Camila, who followed the other girl’s pace as well. Camila’s face flushes as she looks back at Normani; her cheeks tinting red.

“I was just, um, y’know, they’re just- i was just-”

“Okay Camila, stop. They’re hot. I get it. It’s completely normal,” Normani replied with mirth in her tone as she drags Camila’s elbow with her. “Also, the name of the one you were ten seconds away from drooling on is Shawn Mendes, he’s the quarterback and also a very sweet guy,” Camila locked eyes with him from across the hallway and almost snapped her neck from how fast she was trying to look away. Amused at Camila’s reaction, Normani put her out of her misery by continuing, “But, he has a boyfriend, so he’s not available,”.

Camila’s jaw dropped as those words exited Normani’s mouth. She slapped her arm lightly but couldn’t help but laugh along with the dark-skinned beauty as they walked down the hallway. “Holy hell,” Camila told Normani as she wiped a single tear of joy from her eyes, “Thank God you told me that before i started getting an unmanageable crush on hi-”

Her sentence was interrupted by a loud bang; causing both her and Normani to jerk towards the source of the sound. It was a few feet ahead of them and instead of people gathering around the incident like they usually do, most of them just fled; leaving a very clear view of what was happening. There was a boy on the ground whose shoulder was clutched as three girls stood above him. One girl had her back to Camila, so the newbie couldn’t make out her face but could only see that she had long wavy dark-blonde hair and she was very tall. The other girl opposite the very tall one was inversely short, but had the same dirty blonde hair. However, Camila could make out her face from this angle and immediately recognized the Latina look in her. She was awfully pretty, and her short legs were shown off in denim shorts; which made them look like they were 10-miles long. She couldn’t see the middle-girl’s face because her blackish brown hair was curtaining her face but then a pale hand came up to swish her hair to the other side; allowing Camila to see her side-profile. The dark-haired girl then smirked and took a step towards the fallen boy; eliciting a shiver in Camila’s spine.

There was something about this girl.

“Ugh, not again,” Normani moaned as she saw the events in front of her unfold. Camila teared her eyes away from the scene and questioned her.

“Mani, what the hell is happening? Who are they? What do you mean again?” she rambled, curious to what was going on. Her heart ached for the boy on the floor. She hated bullies.

“That’s the Clique,” Normani equipped as she pulled out her phone and dialled the Principal’s Office number. “Those three girls have been causing trouble ever since the dawn of time, picking on people and picking fights when someone as much looks at them the wrong way. Not to mention, they have basically slept with the whole damn school. They’re attitude is horrendous, well at least, one of theirs is,” said Normani as she waits for the office to pick up. Camila frowns at the information, never once hearing about an all-female group of assholes.

“There’s Ally, Dinah and Lauren,”

Camila’s ears perked up at that; the name feeling disastrously familiar and rang a bell in her distant mind. “Wait, Lauren?”

“Yeah, and she’s the worst one,” continued Normani; catching a hint of confusion on Camila’s face. “She’s kind of the leader of the clique and she terrorizes everyone. If she’s not picking a fight with you, she’s flirting with you, and if she’s not flirting with you, she’s fucking you or even all the above. They are all positively repulsive. So, my advice is to steer clear of all three of them, you don’t want to be on their hit li- Yes, Mrs. Adams, Normani here. I would like to report a fight in the school hallway opposite Room R126,” Normani supplies the clerk.

Of course. Of course, it has to be right opposite my bloody classroom, thought Camila to herself.

“Yes.Yes, it’s the Clique again. Okay, no problem,” and then Normani hung up her phone with a sigh. Seeing the apprehension on Camila’s face, she questioned her.

“What’s wrong, you know any of them?”

Camila’s head was spinning a little, but mostly her stomach felt like she was going to be sick. Lauren. Could it be the same Lauren? But it couldn’t be right? The memory of the Lauren she knew, though it was a very hazy one, put her up to be one of the heroes, not the villains. How could someone as righteous as that become one of the most horrible people she could think of? But still, it could still be a different Lauren. It couldn’t be the same. What was her last name again? Jagooey? Jaguar?

“Wait, Normani,” Camila had to let go of her suspicions. “Do you know what’s Lauren’s last name?” the brown-eyed girl asked; hoping that it really wasn’t the same girl she knew 11 years ago. The girl that picked fights for good, and not for her own selfish gain.

“Do I? Girl…,” Normani chuckled at that. “She’s the former mayor, but current Senate’s daughter, Lauren Jauregui, of course i know her name, Mila. It’s also one of the reasons she gets away with everything,” replied Normani; staring disapprovingly at the event that was still taking place in front of them. At this point, Lauren had her foot on the boys chest and still had that awful smirk on her face.

“Jauregui,huh?” Camila echoed; a weird mixture of dread, disgust and hope swirling in the pit of her stomach. Yep, that was the same girl all right. It would explain why Lauren’s dad was all fancy looking all those years ago. Camila eyes shot up to look at her again; watching her taunt the vulnerable boy beneath her. She was wearing dark skinny jeans and a dark green bomber jacket over a white tank top; her lips were painted red and her hair framed the side of her face beautifully.

Ugh, why is it always the beautiful ones who are the assholes?, Camila thought to herself as she sees a few teachers rush past her to stop the fight.

They pull Lauren off the boy and drag Dinah and Ally along. However, it seems like they are headed towards them and Camila finally manages to see Dinah and Lauren’s full faces. They both have strong defining jawlines and cheekbones; and as they got closer, it was very easy to tell that their bodies were curvy in all the right places. Camila’s eyes strained not to stare.

They were getting closer to the pair, and Dinah smiled. Not at Camila, but at Normani, who simply huffed and rolled her eyes. Camila made a note in her brain to ask Normani about that later. What bothered Camila was that the three of them didn’t look affected at all. They didn’t seem like they just pushed a boy to ground and taunted him. Their egos were huge and Camila’s blood boiled. What type of horrible person do you have to be cause another person so much misery?

With a strange surge of anger, Camila disapprovingly stared at the three, but her eyes locked with Lauren’s for a second; familiar eyes finding each other in the midst of grass and soil.

Oh, it’s definitely her, Camila thought to herself as she felt a rush. She could recognize those green eyes anywhere.

Infuriatingly, the emerald-eyed girl held Camila’s gaze. Almost as if there were wheels turning in her thick skull. However, when a flash of recognition flashed in her eyes, she winked at the brown-eyed girl; steadily looking up and down her body with a half-smirk as she passed her.

Camila felt her anger only intensify though her cheeks were being bombarded by a heavy blush. They felt hot and heavy on her face and she loathed that it did. How utterly disgusting! The nerve of her! And to think that she could’ve maybe given her a chance to not be a complete asshole. The girl that Camila knew was far gone. Also, how much did she know about the other girl anyway? They only ever talked once.

Camila couldn’t believe she actually missed that hooligan for the first few years she was at New York.

Normani, from the sidelines, watched the interaction with raised eyebrows. What the hell is up with those two? It’s just her first day and she’s gotten Lauren’s attention already?

“Okay,they’re gone, let me get you to class,” diverted Normani; dragging a very peeved but still blushing Camila into her AP Literature class. She could maybe ask her another day.

“Did you see how she acted?,” Camila rambled, “Who does she think she is? Fucking Ryan Gosling or something? Megan Fox?, C’mon she doesn’t even come close and she acts like she’s this fucking big shot player or something, give me a break,and………”

—

A/N: hey :) let me know what you guys think!

#UPDATE #series #AU #camren #alren #normila #camally #norminah #laurinah #dinally #angst drama #family #humour #romance fluff #submission #Be Exemplary

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amisbro · 7 years ago

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Deep Dive: The subplot of the UtaPri Anime NO ONE talks about

(God Damn that’s a long title...am I writing a Light Novel?) ANYWAYS (Yes already with the snark...hello @baku5ds) Welcome everyone to a brand new edition of “Deep Dive” where we take a look at things that have happened in Animes and other media and we TRY to find out if there was some other meaning to things that happened...or if there is a possibility that I am just overthinking things Today’s topic is a subplot that I don’t think anyone has ever discussed in the Anime of Uta no Prince-Sama (henceforth known as “UtaPri”) and I thought *Let’s discuss this!* So for this post we are discussing one of UtaPri’s greatest subplots that appeared to go over EVERYONE’S HEAD (including mine) and we’re gonna go over it now! Ladies and Gents...we’re talking about Shining Saotome ,STARISH and HEAVENS! LET’S GO

Alright before we get too far in let’s explain WHY we are talking about this EVERYONE in the UtaPri fandom has always said either one of the following (if not both things) “The UtaPri Anime was all about STARISH’s story” OR “HEAVENS’ role was to make STARISH better” The thing is there was one thing that became interestingly apparent since even the end of Series 1 and then became more clear as we started to move forward was there was some weird motive going on with Shining behind the scenes that made for a very interesting time. Here is how it started In the end of Series 1 (it was episode 12 I do believe) Shining told the other 5 members at the time that the only way he would allow all of them to be a part of a “group” was if Tokiya got back in time...now he did so STARISH was allowed to form right? Well not quite yet See Shining had a nasty trick up his sleeve Shining decided it would be a good idea to tell them that ,in order for them to debut, they had to ditch Nanami (whom up to this point had been around them all series. STARISH protested but it was Shining’s word that was law so they were going to have to deal with it UNLESS Haruka could write something better than the “God of Composing” which SPOILER...we never met (all we got to find out was it was a man and that’s it). So now Nanami runs away and goes back to live with her grandmom (and I loved Granny Nanami as a character...I don’t think they allowed her to be at the SSS though which annoyed me) and then STARISH went and tracked her down (which I was fine with cos they wanted HER to be the composer and I can dig the rebellion. Its revealed not long after that Shining was just “testing her” and then STARISH got to debut with her as composer So so far we had Shining fucking with STARISH in this sense...was their more to come? Oh yeah and Series two was going to be the start of something very telling when it came to Shining and even moreso the relationship he had with at least one of his instructors in my main man Ryuuga-Sensei but more on this later When Season 2 starts we are introduced to new cast members in the QUARTET NIGHT and they are to be the “Seniors” for STARISH whom kind of scoff at the idea. This later comes back to bite them (even if the writers don’t do a good job of explaining it) but for now its QN and STARISH under the same roof...but what’s the deal with Shining? Shining finds out that STARISH refused the mentorship of the 4 new cast but is “kind of” okay with it. Its later announced that they (STARISH) would be going for the “UtaPri Award” and you would be left to wonder if its going to be against QN or some group that would be made up for STARISH to truck over (because my belief is that if it HAD been QN there would have been a different outcome). Now everything is pretty tame and everyone is going on relatively “Drama Free” until we get to the 6th episode of the season in “Orange Rhapsody”. THIS was the first episode that made me start to wonder what was going on in Shining’s head after the stunt he pulled in Season 1 with Nanami! It was revealed in this episode that he had heard about “a trio of Amateurs” that would take on STARISH at the awards and when he revealed this it was in front of Ryuuga (I’m refraining from using surnames for a reason here...it’ll be clear in a bit) and ,while Ryu-Sensei didn’t flinch here you know he had to be trusting them less and less because of stuff that was going on. (I say this and we have to remember my fave instructor basically demoted Tokiya and threatened to kick Ren out in Season 1...still like him though) Now my question that I had asked myself at this point was this “How does Shining know about this ‘Trio of Amateurs’ and who are they?” Well we don’t get their identity revealed until the 10th episode of the season (”Crystal Time”) and now things get interesting. See around this time Cecil was getting ready to leave to go back to Agnapolis by order of his dad...problem was that he wanted to help STARISH be the best group they could be so he basically begged to come back and he did...now when it comes to the deal with HEAVENS well... Shining (and the man we would come to know as Raging Ootori) make an agreement that the winner of the UtaPri Awards can stay on as a group but the loser has to disband...this part is interesting because both groups had zero say in this (and not long before this STARISH rebelled against Ringo and Ryuuga) so we had a lot going on here and it was going to take time to process...except we didn’t have that much because the UtaPri awards were coming up! So surprise surprise STARISH wins the award and everyone (before the Season 3 announcement) thinks the show is over...the series 3 announcement comes and we find out otherwise but let’s talk about this competition. The idea was that the group that lost goes away for good right? Okay so then WHY did Shining prevent the disbandment of HEAVENS? I dunno about everyone when they first saw this but I was very curious about what was going on here because Raging was legit ready to honor the agreement and then Saotome broke it...the hell?! As much as I love Season 2 this ending confuses me for this reason A “Protagonist” usually would honor an agreement put forth and do as was told but an “Antagonist” would find a way to weasel out of it. Someone tell me how Shining ,despite being the President of the “Protagonist company”, isn’t an Antag here when he deliberately broke the agreement and then STARISH backed it? I dunno why but I forever find this confusing. Oh but the Shining/HEAVENS connection was going to start to get even more confusing. See come Season 3 we had more stuff with Shining and Ryuuga in the car when the issue over “Code: T.V.U.” broke out (and again another Ren episode). The thing was here was that Ryuuga was wondering if Shining had something planned for STARISH and when Shining didn’t say ANYTHING that gave him all the intel he needed...but he just didn’t know WHAT! So now fast forward to the end of Season 3 and what do we see? HEAVENS (whom was a trio in Season 2 and now 7 members in Season 3) AND Shining and Raging standing atop the Shining Tower together as if they were in on this the whole time! Aight...this are STARTING to come into the picture here So now we know that Shining and Raging were halfass working together. I say “halfass” cos the reality was that with Season 4 we come to find out that it would appear all the episodes at least STARTED in the Raging Entertainment office! THEN we talk about the “Three episodes from hell” (or more specifically “NEXT DOOR”) The things that forever puzzled me about the episode Eiichi claimed that Shining gave him permission for the training camp. IF we go under the assumption that Shining has had an interest in HEAVENS this whole time then that makes sense that he would give the Leader the “go ahead” for doing this kind of thing with Otoya...makes sense to me. Now...the report It can be speculated that Eiichi “invaded” the privacy of Otoya to get what he wanted out of him. I still don’t think that is the case and its been almost two years since the episode. I’m still thinking that Shining gave him whatever he needed (which if we again go by him having an interest in HEAVENS this makes sense) but Shining didn’t know what the result was going to be. NOW...once we got out of that mess what would Shining’s next point of interest be with HEAVENS? The SSS! Remember that in Episode 11 STARISH delivered their song from Nanami (and shocker of shocker NANAMI couldn’t be there..was still curious was they kept Nanami from HEAVENS for a good portion of the season) and around episode 12 HEAVENS made their triumphant reappearance at the re-election (with an assist from QN of all groups) and then despite losing was asked by STARISH of all groups to assist with a song. Okay this part puzzled me but the more you think about Saotome and his weird connection with HEAVENS this is gonna kind of make sense because when they were getting ready to do it Raging was going to stop them...then SHINING showed up and prevented him from leaving! Plot hole Why did Shining Stop Raging from going to get HEAVENS at this point in time...they lost again to STARISH so him getting them and pulling them off the stage would make sense right? Here is like the point of all of this It seemed whenever STARISH was going to do something Shining put up a roadblock to try and keep them from appearing Like in Season 1 it was “Either you do it without Nanami or you don’t do it at all” Season 2 was “If Cecil doesn’t come back before I get on this copter and leave you aren’t going to do the award show Season 3 was “I dunno if I want you to do the SSS election” but got backed into it by QN whom then turned on STARISH Season 4 was the only season that really HE didn’t do it...it was an accident by Eiichi but it was Raging’s idea in the FIRST PLACE! YET When it comes to HEAVENS Shining S2 Prevented HEAVENS from disbanding despite the conditions in the agreement S3 Was with Raging after HEAVENS reappeared as a 7 member group S4 Prevented Raging from going to pull HEAVENS during the final song of the season Have you noticed something herte: Shining seems VERY INTERESTED in HEAVENS for some reason and yet oddly DIDN’T say “They had enough of your abuse...they’re coming with ME now!” And I legit wondered why...still do honestly. There is a part of me that wondered THIS So we got this new movie and now we have the different members in units now and HEAVENS have AT MINIMUM 1 with a STARISH member but also a QN member (some have 2 HEAVENS because of QN having only 4 members). NOW...this makes me wonder this Its known that Shining now has a big interest in them AND its known that he PROBABLY KNOWS that Raging tried to recruit Tokiya. I DON’T THINK its out of the realm of possibility now that he (Shining) is going to try and and get HEAVENS away from Raging but he’s waiting till this next concert. He PROBABLY also wants to see how the HEAVENS members work with QN (R.I.P Eiji and Shion...more the former TBH) and if he gets the results he wants...HEAVENS will NEVER go back to Raging ever again! Now WILL this happen? Hard to say cos its going to be hard to see what goes on with HEAVENS in the movie and then after. If Broc is complete morons then they will ax HEAVENS after this BUT we will have to wait and see because we got a LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG wait until then and now the clock starts for the QN single and then we find out about HEAVENS’ HOLY SHIT THIS WAS LONG...okay I think we are done for now but you might see me back later with something a bit more lighthearted...give me a few hours Until then my friends do take care and Good Day Good Night Good BYE!

#Amisbro #Deep Dive #uta no prince sama #HEAVENS #Shining Saotome #I didn't think this was going to be this God Damn long!#but it was so what are you going to do right?

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theonyxpath · 6 years ago

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Last week, I had a great interview with the guys from the Everybody Loves Pudding podcast, and since their questions started with the early days with White Wolf and being a Magic card artist and led right through the CCP years to V5 and its several controversies, I thought this week that I’d go over a couple of questions folks have been throwing at us that relate to the whole ownership and licensing thing. And the difference between those two kinds of business deals.

(As soon as the Pudding guys are ready to post the interview, I’ll share the links with all of you. Mmmm, I sure do like pudding, Cotton).

I recently saw online somebody asking how CCP being bought was going to affect us and White Wolf and the WW game lines.

So, first, if you missed the news: CCP, the company that used to own White Wolf and who tried to create a World of Darkness MMO, but who ultimately sold WW to Paradox, who then recreated White Wolf as a company and created Vampire 5th Edition, were themselves bought by a bigger computer game company out of Korea or China.

Wow, that was still pretty convoluted, wasn’t it? Let’s try bullet points:

The original White Wolf, after years of creating great games lines, merges with/is bought by CCP, an Icelandic MMO company.

CCP licenses the rights to create tabletop RPGs for WoD, Chronicles of Darkness, and Exalted, to my new company, Onyx Path. The license means we don’t own those lines, we “just” make TTRPG books for them. They sell all the rights to Scion, the Trinity game lines, and the Scarred Lands to Onyx Path, as well, so we do own them and can call all the shots for them.

After years of trying to create a WoD MMO, and failing, CCP sells everything they have left that is White Wolf to Paradox Interactive, a Swedish computer game company. CCP at this point has no further ownership or connection to anything once created by White Wolf.

Paradox spins off a company named White Wolf that they intend to use to build the World of Darkness into the most recognized and coolest horror Intellectual Property in the world. They intend to do this by matching the right creators with the right projects via licensing.

This White Wolf continues with Onyx Path‘s license to create tabletop RPGs, but decides to create the newest edition of the WoD game lines, starting with Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition, themselves and let other licensees, like Onyx Path, publish V5 books as well.

CCP is bought by a bigger computer game company and because they sold everything White Wolf years ago, they have no connection to and their be bought has no effect on anything White Wolf related today. Or on Onyx Path in any way. Although, we do all wish them luck and a great future!

This corporate stuff does get complicated, don’t it?

Dragon-Blooded art by Melissa Uran

You might wonder why I can wish the crew at CCP good luck after all the upset that happened during the WoD MMO years – many of us still have flashbacks to the endless “stand-up” team meetings, and the sit-down management meetings weren’t much better – but without them licensing the WW game lines to us, Onyx Path would have had a very, very, tough time starting as a TTRPG publisher.

That gave us the boost of awareness and continuity with the old WW community that allowed us to build Onyx up and experiment on game-lines and business options that has enabled us to keep growing. So, yeah, I am grateful for that. And honestly, even with these great WW licenses, there are still many struggles that we’ve surmounted.

Contrary to some belief, and something that some other companies are learning, having a well-known and much loved TTRPG gameline is not a license to print money. Although good online gaming representation helps a lot, these days!

I used those bullet points to answer a few of the other questions, too, like “Why isn’t White Wolf doing more books themselves?” and “Did Onyx Path lose the White Wolf license? I see all these other companies involved!”.

A fair bit of the confusion, once you get past the corporate buy-outs and license definitions is just that White Wolf now isn’t functioning like we did in the first White Wolf. Which is really good, because back then, we were just making stuff up as we went along!

M20 Gods and Monsters art by Michael Gaydos

Now, for some quick notes from our Monday Meeting today.

First, Eddy Webb let us in on his iThrive retreat and “think tank” that he attended at the end of last week. Eddy shared a lot of notes on how to professionals and academics are viewing TTRPGs as learning, teaching, and therapeutic tools. Like I said at the meeting, it is really fascinating to hear analysis and data that confirms a lot of the ways we’ve seen kids and teenagers use games to help themselves.

Good stuff, and perhaps I can convince Eddy to put together a more in-depth blog sometime in the future, or even devote an episode of the Onyx Pathcast to the topic.

My notes from the meeting tell me that this Friday’s Pathcast is slated to be an phantasmagorical interview with the Master of Mage: The Ascension, Satyr Phil Brucato himself. With M20 Gods and Monsters and M20 Book of the Fallen handed off into the production process, this is a great time to delve deep into what Satyr Phil was thinking and went through to create those projects.

Last week’s Pathcast was an amazing deep-dive into the creation of Beckett’s Jyhad Diary, and many other things Vampire as well, with the Terrifically Terrifying Trio adding both insight and insanity to the exploration. They have stated quite clearly that it was their best look into a specific book EVAH, so it’s well worth a listen on PodBean or on your favorite podcast venue: https://onyxpathcast.podbean.com/

Impish Ian Watson, our Community Manager, talked a bit about the LA By Night streaming V5 Chronicle from Geek & Sundry, and how at one time in the chat there were something like close to 10,000 folks chatting. Yes, that is a very good thing, even if you don’t follow “actual play” streaming. That’s a lot of potential players excited about WoD, many for the first time. Plus, I hear they did a fantastic job evoking the World of Darkness and V5.

VtR2 Guide to the Night art by Mirko Falloni

Finally, thanks to all of you who have been taking advantage of this week’s huge sale at DriveThruRPG.com, it has been a stunning success, and runs until Thursday morning here in the US. In case you have somehow missed it. Then, as soon as it stops, DTRPG is running the same deal, but for Vampire: The Requiem, Werewolf: The Forsaken, and Mage: The Awakening PDFs, all part of the Chronicles of Darkness. More info below.

So many things are happening all over, and yet, ultimately, we are so thrilled to be creating the projects that provide the impetus for so much of all that. It’s what we do, we make worlds, in fact:

Many Worlds, One Path!

BLURBS!

KICKSTARTER:

The Dystopia Rising: Evolution Kickstarter funded in less than a day, and two sections of the Threat Guide companion PDF Stretch Goal have been added, which is a first-person guide with mechanics to the various threats facing survivors in the DR:E world, and we have opened up a Community Content site for the game! Now we’re staggering towards a fiery Jumpstart!

Dystopia Rising: Evolution is powered by Onyx Path’s Storypath system, and includes all the rules you need to play as a survivor in the post-apocalypse, including rules for creating characters for up to 24 different Strains, variations on humanity that survived the Fall. It also has details on the powers of faith and psionics, along with advice on running action-adventure stories, webs of personal intrigue, or procedural investigations. And, finally, dozens of antagonists, including a variety of zombies and raiders to use in your series.

Throughout this Kickstarter campaign, we will be posting complete previews of the Dystopia Rising: Evolution manuscript as backer-only updates. With one week to go, you can back now and get the text to find out what are the excitement is about!

ELECTRONIC GAMING:

As we find ways to enable our community to more easily play our games, the Onyx Dice Rolling App is now live! Our dev team has been doing updates since we launched based on the excellent use-case comments by our community, and this thing is both rolling and rocking!

Here are the links for the Apple and Android versions:

http://theappstore.site/app/1296692067/onyx-dice

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.onyxpathpublishing.onyxdice&hl=en

Three different screenshots, above.

ON AMAZON AND BARNES & NOBLE:

You can now read our fiction from the comfort and convenience of your Kindle (from Amazon) and Nook (from Barnes & Noble).

If you enjoy these or any other of our books, please help us by writing reviews on the site of the sales venue you bought it from. Reviews really, really help us with getting folks interested in our amazing fiction!

Our selection includes these fiction books:

Vampire: The Masquerade: The Endless Ages Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: Rites of Renown: When Will You Rage II (Kindle, Nook)

Mage: The Ascension: Truth Beyond Paradox (Kindle, Nook)

Chronicles of Darkness: The God-Machine Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Mummy: The Curse: Curse of the Blue Nile (Kindle, Nook)

Beast: The Primordial: The Primordial Feast Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Masquerade: Of Predators and Prey: The Hunters Hunted II Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: The Poison Tree (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: Songs of the Sun and Moon: Tales of the Changing Breeds (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Requiem: The Strix Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Forsaken: The Idigam Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Mage: The Awakening: The Fallen World Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Masquerade: The Beast Within Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: W20 Cookbook (Kindle, Nook)

Exalted: Tales from the Age of Sorrows (Kindle, Nook)

Chronicles of Darkness: Tales of the Dark Eras (Kindle, Nook)

Promethean: The Created: The Firestorm Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Demon: The Descent: Demon: Interface (Kindle, Nook)

Scarred Lands: Death in the Walled Warren (Kindle, Nook)

V20 Dark Ages: Cainite Conspiracies (Kindle, Nook)

Chronicles of Darkness: Strangeness in the Proportion (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Requiem: Silent Knife (Kindle, Nook)

Mummy: The Curse: Dawn of Heresies (Kindle, Nook)

OUR SALES PARTNERS:

We’re working with Studio2 to get Pugmire out into stores, as well as to individuals through their online store. You can pick up the traditionally printed main book, the Screen, and the official Pugmire dice through our friends there!

https://studio2publishing.com/search?q=pugmire

Looking for our Deluxe or Prestige Edition books? Try this link! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/Onyx-Path-Publishing/

Here’s the link to the press release we put out about how Onyx Path is now selling through Indie Press Revolution: http://theonyxpath.com/press-release-onyx-path-limited-editions-now-available-through-indie-press-revolution/

And you can now order Pugmire: the book, the screen, and the dice! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/manufacturers.php?manufacturerid=296

DRIVETHRURPG.COM:

Ending this Thursday, DTRPG together with White Wolf and Onyx Path are having a one week massive 75% off sale on all Vampire: The Masquerade, Werewolf: The Apocalypse, and Mage: The Ascension PDFs!

AND, starting this Thursday morning, we are having a one week only 75% off sale on all Vampire: The Requiem, Werewolf: The Forsaken, and Mage: The Awakening PDFs!

This Wednesday we expand our blank journal offerings on our RedBubble site with Vampire: The Requiem blank journals!

CONVENTIONS!

From Fast Eddy Webb, we have these:

Eddy will be speaking at Broadleaf Writers Conference (September 22-23) in Decatur, GA. He’ll be there to talk about writing for interactive fiction, and hanging out with other writers who have far more illustrious careers. http://broadleafwriters.com/3rd-annual-broadleaf-writers-conference/3rd-annual-broadleaf-writers-conference-speakers/

Eddy will also be a featured guest at Save Against Fear (October 12-14) in Harrisburg, PA. He’ll be running some Pugmire games, be available for autographs, and will sometimes accept free drinks. http://www.thebodhanagroup.org/about-the-convention

Monica Valentinelli will be a professional guest at Great Falls Gaming Convention in Montana the first week of October. http://gfgr.org/guests-of-honor/

Dixie Cochran will be at High Level Games Con in Atlantic City October 12-14, running a Women in Game Design panel, Eddy’s RPG Developer Bootcamp, and possibly making a surprise appearance at another event!

And now, the new project status updates!

DEVELOPMENT STATUS FROM FAST EDDY WEBB (projects in bold have changed status since last week):

First Draft (The first phase of a project that is about the work being done by writers, not dev prep)

C20 Novel (Jackie Cassada) (Changeling: the Dreaming 20th Anniversary Edition)

M20 The Technocracy Reloaded (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

M20 Victorian Mage (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

Trinity Continuum: Aberrant core (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Tales of Excellent Cats (Monarchies of Mau)

Scion Companion: Mysteries of the World (Scion 2nd Edition)

City of the Towered Tombs (Cavaliers of Mars)

Heirs to the Shogunate (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Witch-Queen of the Shadowed Citadel (Cavaliers of Mars)

Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition core rulebook (Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition)

Scion Ready Made Characters (Scion 2nd Edition)

Scion Jumpstart (Scion 2nd Edition)

Redlines

Deviant: The Renegades (Deviant: The Renegades)

Night Horrors: Nameless and Accursed (Mage: the Awakening Second Edition)

Second Draft

Tales of Good Dogs – Pugmire Fiction Anthology (Pugmire)

Oak, Ash, and Thorn: Changeling: The Lost 2nd Companion (Changeling: The Lost 2nd)

CofD Dark Eras 2 (Chronicles of Darkness)

V5 Chicago By Night (Vampire: The Masquerade)

Development

Hunter: the Vigil 2e core (Hunter: the Vigil 2nd Edition)

Fetch Quest (Pugmire)

CofD Contagion Chronicle (Chronicles of Darkness)

Dystopia Rising: Evolution (Dystopia Rising: Evolution)

Night Horrors: Shunned by the Moon (Werewolf: The Forsaken 2nd Edition)

Adventures for Curious Cats (Monarchies of Mau)

M20 Book of the Fallen (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

Lunars: Fangs at the Gate (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Spilled Blood (Vampire: The Requiem 2nd Edition)

In Media Res (Trinity Continuum: Core)

Aeon Aexpansion (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

WoD Ghost Hunters (World of Darkness)

C20 Players’ Guide (Changeling: the Dreaming 20th Anniversary Edition)

Wr20 Book of Oblivion (Wraith: The Oblivion 20th Anniversary Edition)

Manuscript Approval:

Signs of Sorcery (Mage: the Awakening Second Edition)

Editing:

Dog and Cat Ready Made Characters (Monarchies of Mau) (With Eddy)

Changeling: The Lost 2nd Jumpstart (Changeling: The Lost 2nd)

Post-Editing Development:

Scion: Hero (Scion 2nd Edition)

Trinity Continuum Core Rulebook (The Trinity Continuum)

Trinity Continuum: Aeon Rulebook (The Trinity Continuum)

Ex Novel 2 (Aaron Rosenberg) (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Exalted 3rd Novel by Matt Forbeck (Exalted 3rd Edition)

They Came From Beneath the Sea! Rulebook (TCFBtS!)

Indexing:

Changeling: The Lost 2e

ART DIRECTION FROM MIRTHFUL MIKE:

In Art Direction

Dystopia Rising: Evolution – KS is going.

M20: Gods and Monsters – AD’d and Contracted.

Geist 2e

The Realm

Trinity Continuum (Aeon and Core) – AD’d and Contracted.

Ex3 Monthly Stuff

Ex3 Dragon Blooded – Finals coming in.

Chicago By Night – KS art sketches and finals coming in.

Pugmire Roll of Good Dogs and Cats

Marketing Stuff

In Layout

Trinity Core

Trinity Aeon

Proofing

Scion Hero – Putting in Neal’s changes, updating font

PTC: Night Horrors: The Tormented – Corrections over to KT.

Scion Origin – Doing Neall’s errata changes, and swapping out the font.

VtR: Guide to the Night

Lost 2e Screen – At WW for approval

Fetch Quest – Package design done

At Press

Monarchies of Mau – Printing. Dice and buttons printing.

Cavaliers of Mars – At Studio2.

Wraith 20th – Prepping the interior Deluxe files, cover design sent to printer.

Monarchies of Mau Screen – At Studio2.

Cavaliers of Mars Screen – At Studio2.

Wraith 20 Screen – Printing.

Scion Dice – At fulfillment shipper.

Cav Talent cards – PoD proof coming.

Requiem Journals – On Sale at RedBubble on Weds!

TODAY’S REASON TO CELEBRATE: In 1859 Joshua A. Norton declares himself “Norton I, Emperor of the United States.” I mean, if you like WoD or CofD, They Came From Beneath the Sea!, Scion, or the Trinity Continuum…this guy was just the tip of the odd history iceberg that we draw on for all those settings.

#Onyx Path Publishing

4 notes · View notes

saikostories · 4 years ago

Text

Stray Kids - Cuff Burn (Chan) (M)

You didn’t mean to see it. You didn’t want the image going through your head the rest of the night, especially because it was Halloween and it was going to be a long one, and you definitely did not want to be heated like a fucking oven. You had just wanted to tell your roommate that you were going to run late to the party if he didn’t hurry up.

You didn’t mean to see it. But you had.

Chan was styling his hair, pushing it back and running his fingers through it slowly. But that wasn’t what shocked you. It was the fact that he was shirtless, chest still glistening from the shower, with a pair of tight navy slacks on and a pair of handcuffs dangling from the loop. You sucked in a breath and inched away from the cracked door. Chan was dressing as a fucking cop. Out of all the possible costumes, he had chosen a cop.

You pressed your back against the wall and took a deep breath.

It didn’t help that you were harboring the slightest bit of feelings for him. It only made everything so much hotter. It was like one of your wild fantasies coming true. Except, in reality, you knew that the night probably wouldn’t end the way you imagined. He’d probably end up going to some random persons house and sleeping with them instead, and you’d be stuck home alone, most likely trying to drink your problems away.

That’s how most party nights went. You didn’t think it’d be different just because it was Halloween.

You looked down at you Stranger Things lifeguard costume, an actual excuse to wear swimwear because Johnny had a pool. And you were not going to pass up the opportunity to swim with Johnny Seo or his friends. You glanced back at Chan’s door. Then you huffed.

So what if Chan looked hot tonight? So what if you secretly just wanted to stay home and tell him to use the handcuffs on you? You knew there was a low chance of it actually happening, and if Chan got laid every single time there was a party, why couldn’t you? You smirked suddenly, fiddling with the whistle around your neck.

It was your turn to get laid, and you didn’t care if it was with Chan or not.

You found yourself eating your own words the second Chan had stepped out of his bedroom, completely dressed. The shirt was tight. You could see the material hugging his abs and the sleeves snug against his muscles. And his veins. It’s like they were extra prominent today. His hair was pushed back on the sides but the rest fell onto his forehead, and his eyes looked absolutely sinful. You gulped and tried to remain cool.

The ride there was even worse. When he drove he used one hand to steer and the other to mess with the radio. He liked your costume too. He said it was sexy, but he always said you were sexy. Most of the time he said this when you were being lazy at home, dressed in sweats. At this point, it was like he was mocking you.

“You okay over there?” He asked when you were only blocks away from the party. “You seem extra fidgety today.”

You coughed and zipped your fanny pack shut for the fifth time. “I don’t know what you mean. I’m perfectly fine.”

Chan turned to look at you skeptically. Eyebrow raised, fingers tapping on the steering wheel. He looked down at your fingers, still playing with the zipper. “I don’t believe that.”

You unzipped the fanny pack, harsher than before. “I need something. For tonight. I’m sure you have plenty of them, and I’ve never had the need for them except for tonight.”

Chan creased his eyebrows this time, mouth curling in a frown. “I don’t have drugs if that’s what you’re asking for. You know I’ve never-”

You rolled your eyes and cut him off. “Not drugs. Condoms.”

At this Chan’s eyebrows nearly shot off into his hairline, not even trying to hide his shock. “What? You’re planning on getting some tonight? That’s new.”

You rolled your eyes again, but glanced down slightly. The slacks were basically a second skin on his thighs, which were spread open slightly, and his fucking veins– you stopped yourself from thinking further, averting your eyes to the window. You bit your lip to stop yourself from saying that it was him you wanted to get it from.

“It’s not new. I get it all the time. I-I just… well I just never find them useful you know? They’re just bothersome and take away from the experience.” You huffed, sitting straighter in your seat.

Chan looked over at you in surprise again before he bit his lip in the slightest. You could see it out of the corner of your eye but didn’t have the guts to turn and face him completely. You were already heating up and if you saw that fucking lip bite – it’d be the end. You’d have to jump his bones right here right now in the car.

“Eyes on the road, Chan!” You hissed when he stared a little too long and began to swerve. He snapped back and moved back onto the right side of the road. “Jesus.”

He chuckled, shrugging off the honks of cars passing by. “Sure, I can spare some. Who’s the guy?”

You glanced at him, before looking down into your fanny pack. Then you took a deep breath. “Well, I heard that Kun is going to be there. I have a thing for him.”

You crossed your legs and finally yanked your fanny pack closed. It was true, aside from Chan, who was friends with a lot of good looking people, you had began to quite like Qian Kun, though you hadn’t spoken to him much.

Chan scoffed. “Kun? He’s a dork. He’ll probably come to the party dressed as some Disney character.”

Chan parked the car as you looked over at him, slightly irritated. Who cares that Kun was a dork? He was super attractive. He also had lips to die for. You could have sex with whoever you wanted. Just like he could.

“Maybe I like Disney characters. Maybe I want a prince to carry me to bed and then screw my brains out. Ugh, forget about the condoms.” You hissed, before rolling your eyes and pushing your door open. You started to stomp to the house, but you silently crossed your fingers, hoping to everything good that Kun didn’t dress tacky tonight.

Chan was too stunned at your blunt words to fire back, and watched you go with wide eyes. He grabbed his hat from the backseat and shook his head before following you.

The party was already raging. There were empty bottles of liquor piling in the trashcan and loud music vibrating the soles of your feet. Most of the costumes were provocative and sexy, and it turned out that your lifeguard suit was only mildly revealing. You immediately grabbed a drink and chugged half of it in one go, eyes searching every corner for the Chinese boy.

“Oh, hey, Y/N!” Johnny shouted as he walked over from the kitchen. “Look at you! I love the costume. Can you tell what I am?”

You could tell by his slight slur that he was already buzzed, and looked down at his outfit. He was wearing a long sleeved button up and a pair of washed out jeans, but tucked into his pocket was a large paintbrush. “Uh, are you Bob Ross?”

He cheered loudly, grabbing you around the shoulders and shaking you. “You got it! You’re the first one to guess it right. I didn’t have a wig but I think I nailed it.”

A scream erupted from the dancing crowd behind you and both of you turned to see that Chan had finally entered, and the scream had come from one of the girls. She ran at him and he smirked before catching her in his arms. You gagged at the sight. You looked away and back to Johnny, who was eyeing Chan with wide eyes.

“He looks hot.” Johnny said, eyebrows raised. “If I were gay, I’d do him.”

You rolled your eyes. “He looks okay. Anyways, have you seen Kun?”

“Oh, yeah he’s out by the pool with some people. Poor guy. He’s a little sad.” Johnny said, turning away from the crowd and walking back into the kitchen. You followed him eagerly, not wanting to see Chan and his many girlfriends.

“Why do you say that? What happened?” You asked, curious. Your belly suddenly filled with butterflies. Maybe he didn’t have to be sad the whole night…

Johnny stopped by the sink and gestured to the window over looking the backyard. He took a sip from a random cup on the counter and shook his head. “He dressed like a minion.”

You turned to look out the window and nearly gasped. He wasn’t kidding. Kun was sitting with his legs in the pool, wearing a pair of rolled up overalls and a bright yellow shirt. He even had a beanie with one eye painted on the front. Chan was right. He was a fucking dork.

Speaking of the Devil himself, Chan appeared next to you seemingly out of thin air, a drink in his hand and a smirk on his lips. He followed your line of sight. He snorted. “A fucking minion? Someone please tell me this guy did not dress like a fucking minion. What are we, five?”

You rolled your eyes and reached over, pinching him on his side. He didn’t even flinch. “Asshole. It’s Halloween he can wear whatever he wants. At least he doesn’t look like an overpriced stripper.”

Johnny apparently heard nothing of that and turned to you. When he saw Chan he cheered. “Aye! My man! You look great dude, I dig the costume.”

Chan nodded in greeting before looking down at you. He pressed his body closer to yours, moving his head down to meet your eyes. You tried your best to ignore the way his skin was warm against yours, and how much you liked it. “Y/N, come on, out of all people, him?”

“I can sleep with whoever I want to, Chris!” You growled, pushing him away and turning on your heel. You knew using his real name would probably make him irritated, honestly you couldn’t give two fucks. It wasn’t your fault he thought he actually had a say in the matter.

You heard Johnny say something and Chan say something back but you didn’t bother listening in. Asshole. Fucking stupid asshole with an amazing body. You hated that you wanted him to press himself against you more. For him to push you up against that counter and fuck you raw.

You shivered as you stepped outside, trying your best to think of other things.

Kun was talking to Ten, but by the time you reached him the latter was running to the diving board. You grimaced as you saw him turn to you. Even his face was painted yellow. You forced a polite smile and sat beside him, dipping your own feet into the pool. The water was surprisingly warm, a nice difference to the cold night.

“Oh, hey, Y/N!” He greeted, his cheeks lifting in an adorable smile. He looked you up and down, but not in a ‘checking you out’ sort of way. He just seemed interested in your look. A gentleman as always. “I like it. Are you that lifeguard from Stranger Things? The fanny pack and the curls give it away.”

You gasped. “No way! You got it. I’ve had to tell everyone that I’m just a regular lifeguard because they don’t see it. You’re good.”

Kun smiled. “Wish I would’ve thought of something like that. I feel like an idiot. I’m the only one here that’s dressed family friendly.”

“Well, not true. I just ran into Bob Ross…well, without the iconic hair.” You replied.

Kun rolled his eyes. “His shirt is completely unbuttoned and he’s got dicks painted all over a piece of cardboard.”

You giggled, looking over to see that Kun was laughing too, but his gaze was settled sadly into the water. “I like minions, you know?”

He looked up. “Really?”

“Yeah. So does my little cousin. You pull it off well.” You reassured.

He rolled his eyes suddenly. “That’s so shit. Who ‘pulls off’ minion costumes? I wish I would’ve picked something else. I’m stupid.”

You squinted at him for a second before shaking your head. “You’re not stupid.”

“Well, I feel like it.” He grumbled, before throwing himself back so that he was laying against the pavement. “I want to go home.”

You cocked your head to the side for a second. Then you smiled as an idea popped into your head. You pulled your feet from the water and tugged on his arm. “Okay, come on.”

Kun creased his eyebrows and sat up, already following your instructions without question. “Where are we going?”

You finally helped him get to his feet and grinned at him, pushing his chest lightly. “We are going to make you less kid friendly.”

Kun raised his eyebrows, but before he could say something else you grabbed his hand and began to drag him inside. You entered the house and grabbed two shot glasses. Kun looked like he wanted to protest when you poured them to the brim with fireball but took it and threw it back when you handed it to him anyway. You poured two more before grabbing his hand again, making your way up the stairs of Johnny’s massive place. On the way you saw Chan dancing with some random girl, her hands slowly unbuttoning his shirt. He looked up just as you two began to climb the stairs and frowned when he saw who you were with. You raised your eyebrows at him, challenging him. What could he do? Nothing!

You made it to the restroom and pulled Kun in before closing the door behind you. You swallowed the second shot, squinting slightly as it burned down your throat. Kun did the same but still looked confused. He began to cough as the liquid burned down his throat, but quickly recovered. You could see that his skin was red behind the yellow paint.

“Are you sure you’re not trying to kill me?” He asked, blinking away tears.

You laughed, pushing him against the sink. “Yes. Your screams won’t be heard over the noises of the party.” He looked terrified, which made you laugh. “Kidding. I told you we’re going to make you less PG and more rated R.”

You grabbed a small towelette and wet it, immediately grabbing Kun’s jaw and beginning to scrub the paint off. Kun had a sharp jaw. It was sexy. You kind of wanted to kiss him there to see his reaction. You didn’t, and instead began scrubbing the paint away silently. You couldn’t fuck Kun while he was in a minion costume. There was no way. You literally felt yourself going dryer than the Sahara desert just looking at his beanie.

“To be honest, a little girl I know picked the costume.” Kun admitted as you began to scrub at his forehead. “She’s my neighbor. She was so happy to help me out in making it. She just thought I was going to a regular costume party.”

You smiled slightly. Kun may have been a dork, but he was sweet. He was a good guy. “That’s cute. Did you take a picture in it?”

He laughed. “Of course. She loved the end result.”

You finally got the last of the yellow off his face and cupped his cheeks. “Well she doesn’t have to know you took it off. This isn’t just a regular party. It’s a Johnny Seo Halloween Bash.”

Kun sighed softly but nodded. “You’re right.”

You tugged on his beanie in response. “This has gotta go. That eye is creeping me out.”

Kun snorted and tugged the beanie off. Your jaw immediately dropped. He ran his fingers through his hair and tried to add volume back to his flattened locks. Your jaw continued to hang. The last time you had seen Kun, he had dark hair, brunette hair. Now his hair was blonde, and it was so damn hot. You choked on air and took a step back.

Maybe it was the fact that you had felt extremely horny ever since you had peeped Chan without his shirt, but your body started to flood with heat. You squeezed your thighs together.

“What? What happened? Is it really bad hat hair?” Kun asked frantically, turning to look at himself in the mirror.

“When the fuck did that happen?” You screeched, moving your hand to your mouth.

“OH, the blonde? It happened like a week ago. I don’t know if I like it or not yet.”

Unable to control yourself you grabbed him by the shoulders and turned him around. He looked surprised as you ran your fingers through his hair. You almost moaned. “It’s so soft too.”

Kun swallowed. “H-hair masks.”

“I love it.”

“You do?”

“Yes, it’s so hot.” You breathed. You glanced down at Kun’s eyes and then to this lips.

Kun blushed, looking away from you. He looked so cute, yet somehow so sexy. His plush lips parted, his cheeks tinted to the slightest little shade of rose, and his adams apple bobbing as he swallowed.

You decided then and there.

You had planned on getting drunk first, but you immediately turned on by the sight of Kun’s blonde hair. You didn’t even care that he still had overalls on. It was Kun. You were going to fuck him.

“Can I kiss you?” You whispered.

Kun looked taken aback. He placed his hands on your hips as yours traveled around his neck. “U-uh… Sure. Yeah. Yes, I mean Yes.”

So you did. You kissed him roughly, which made his hands grip your waist tighter and pulled him closer to you. You fingers ran through his perfectly soft hair as you licked his bottom lip. Kun, who was kissing back a little softer, hesitated before opening his mouth. You slipped your tongue passed his lips and tasted every single part of his mouth. His tongue didn’t even try to dominate yours, which slightly put you off. You kept kissing him.

You pulled back for air and pressed a kiss to his jaw. He shuddered and moaned. You grinned before doing it again, a much rougher kiss. His hand moved to your ass and squeezed. It was your turn to moan.

Kun’s hand suddenly went back to your hips as you began to make a mark on his jaw. “I-I’m sorry for that I- wasn’t thinking.”

You pulled back and looked him in the eyes. “Do it again.”

His eyes went wide. “What?”

“Do it again.” You demanded. You grabbed his hand for him and placed it on your ass. He squeezed reluctantly. You moaned slightly and smiled. “It feels nice. I like it. I’m gonna be blunt really quick… Can you please fuck me on this counter?”

Kun looked completely taken aback, and audibly gasped. You pouted. “Please?You can be as rough as you want, baby.”

Kun didn’t say anything for a second. Then a dark look crossed his features and he picked you up, spinning the two of you around so that you were sitting on the sink counter. You couldn’t help but grin. He gripped your thighs tightly and began to kiss and bite down your neck. Somehow, it was still gentle.

But then he bit down on your sweet spot and you moaned loudly – just as the door burst open.

Kun immediately jerked away from you, hair messy and eyes wide. His plump lips were even more swollen, and there was already a mark from you on his jaw.

“Dude, what the fuck?” Chan yelled, letting the door slam against the wall.

You groaned. “What do you want, Chris? Jesus!”

The two guys looked at you, not at all shocked by his intruding, just extremely annoyed. Your thighs were still spread apart slightly and there was a bit mark on your collarbone. You rolled your eyes at the expressions on their faces.

Kun looked between you and Chan before coming forward and grabbing his beanie. “I should go.”

You frowned. “No, Kun wait-”

He was already gone. You looked to Chan, who was standing like an actual arrogant cop in the doorway, one eyebrow raised at you. You glared at him. “Fuck off.”

He didn’t say anything. He only walked in and shut the door behind him. The lock clicked shortly after. You continued to glare at him as he stood across from you, leaning his back against the wall.

“What the fuck do you want? Get out! I was literally just about to get some good dick!”

Chan scoffed and took his hat off. His own blonde hair tumbled down so that strands were laying across his forehead. You tried not to think about how hot it was. “I know you were about to get some dick. I was there, hearing everything. Good dick, though? That’s debatable.”

You rolled your eyes and leaned back on the palm of your hands. Was this really happening? Was he really acting like this? You sighed and looked back at him. “So, what? You think you can give it to me better? I mean why were you outside in the first-”

Chan coughed. “I know that I can give it to you better.”

You felt your stomach jolt with arousal. You shut your mouth. So this is how the night was going to go. You licked your lips and tried to act like you didn’t want him and much as you actually did. You scoffed, but your cheeks burned red.

“Prove it.”

Chan moved forward quickly, grabbing you from behind your knees and pulling you down from the sink. You squeaked in surprise, which quickly turned into a gasp as he turned you around and pushed you against the sink. Your ass traveled up and you cheek kissed the marble of the counter. There was a clink behind you and you felt handcuffs being clicked onto your wrist, binding them together. You grunted to try and avoid moaning. Your insides were dancing in anticipation to be wrecked.

“Props don’t make dick good.” You challenged, though you knew you were already so turned on that any dick would be good.

There was a chuckle behind you. “I know that. They just make things more fun.”

You rolled your eyes, sticking your ass farther out in feigned boredom. You weren’t bored. Your heart was beating so fast you were sure that it was making a noise against the marble. “Well I haven’t felt anything yet so-”

You were cut off by Chan grinding down onto your ass. You whimpered at the feeling of his hard cock against you. Jesus, did you do that to him? You liked the warmth of his hips against your ass, so you wiggled back. He pulled away instantly.

“I wonder,” He started, his hand cupping your ass. He brought it down with a smack! “What it feels like having to tell someone they can be rough with you. To have to tell someone to touch you.”

You bit your lip as his large fingers snaked under you to rub at your sensitive clit. Your fingers reached over to grab onto his wrist in surprise. He didn’t like that. He pulled his hand away.

“I wonder what it’s like to hear someone apologize for making you moan.” Chan laughed. Another slap to the ass. This time you let your lip go and moaned. “Because it would never be me.”

His hands returned and while one cupped your ass the other moved to your core, pushed your bathing suit aside, and slipped a finger inside of you. You hissed and opened your mouth silently against the sink. You felt idiotic, already so wrecked by so little.

“So fucking wet. And we’ve barely started.” Chan sighed. He leaned over you and placed his lips against your ear. “So tell me. Is this what you wanted? You didn’t want to fuck Kun. You wanted to fuck me. I can tell, you’re so ready for me.”

Another finger. You couldn’t breathe at this point. You closed your mouth but felt a drop of drool escaped before you could stop it.

He stopped moving his fingers inside of you. They had no problem pumping in and out of your core, his fingers already coated from fingertip to the knuckle in your arousal. “Answer the question.”

You gasped, “Yes. All I wanted was your fucking cock inside of me.”

Chan clicked his tongue. Then he chuckled. “I knew it already, but hearing you say it was so much better. Me too, baby. Your costume kills me. So fuck this.”

He pulled his fingers from inside of you and you could hear his belt being undone. He used the buckle to slap your ass again. You only pushed out more. You moaned when you felt precum drip onto your fingers. You got even louder when you felt the head of his dick press against your clit, then rub before slipping down and into your dripping heat.

“A-ah fuck,” Chan groaned. “You’re so fucking warm and tight.”

You had no words as he pushed himself inside of you slowly, so slow that you could feel everything. When he was balls deep he thrusted hard so that you felt the top of your head brush the mirror. You moaned loudly, but this time you managed to mutter. “What about a condom?”

“They take away from the experience.” Chan said, mocking you. You pushed your ass back so he could go deeper. He hissed.

“I am n-not trying to have a baby.” You said, but it felt so good you didn’t want a condom. You didn’t mind not telling Chan you were on birth control. You wanted to see how he’d react.

Chan pulled out, but before you could say anything he pushed back in. “It’s okay, baby. Your pussy will still be good. And I’ll make a good daddy.”

You groaned and opened your mouth to say something but cut yourself off with a moan as Chan began to thrust into you faster. Your fingers reached out and grabbed a hold of the bottom of his shirt, bringing him down and closer to you. He began to place bites and kisses along the back of your shoulder. You glanced at the mirror and moaned from the sight alone. Chan’s mouth against your skin, muscles straining against the material of his costume. The buttons of his shirt popping open at his frantic thrusts.

“I-I’m – fuck – gonna be honest. I won’t last long when you feel this good.” You clenched around him in agreement. “F-fucking shit.”

One of his hands pulled your hair away from your neck so that you weren’t sweating so much and the other grabbed your thigh and lifted it for a better angle. It was so good, you felt your mouth watering again. You arched your back and turned your head a bit to kiss Chan straight on the lips. He responded heavily, his tongue overpowering yours the second they met. It was an extremely wet and messy but Chan didn’t seem to mind. In fact, he seemed to like it and moaned against your mouth. You hated to admit it, but it was so much better than you knew Kun would’ve been.

You pulled back when it became too much and you moaned so loud you were sure the people downstairs would hear. “I-I’m close.”

Chan grunted against you. “Me too, fuck.”

You clenched onto Chan with all of the strength in your stomach and with a shudder you felt yourself cum around him. He spilled inside of you as after a few more deep, slow thrusts.

Your cheek fell against the cold marble and you let out a shaky breath. A few seconds passed before you felt Chan pull out. You felt oddly empty and cold. There was a click and your wrists were free. You pushed yourself up and leaned against his chest. You pushed a few sweaty strands from your forehead.

“Fuck.” Chan mumbled. He wrapped his arm around your shoulder.

“You say fuck too much.” You panted.

Chan rolled his eyes. Then a look of panic washed across his face. “Uh, I didn’t really mean the daddy part so-”

“I’m on the pill.” You laughed. You grabbed a towel and began to clean yourself up. “Don’t worry.”

Chan sighed in relief as he tucked himself back in his costume. You trained your eyes on him. That thing was pure sin. He caught your eyes and creased his brows. “What?”

You leaned against the sink and rubbed at your wrists, throwing the towel to the side. The cuffs had left your skin red and irritated. You didn’t mind. “You have to keep this.”

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mchanv · 4 years ago

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(DFYaH) Chapter 8: Unwanted Smelly

[Originally on AO3]

Summary: I’ve always wondered what Draco Malfoy’s side of the Harry Potter saga was, that’s how I came up with this idea. It is not possible at all to be canon, due to the inability of certain magical items in the story. It runs alongside the books very closely, so some dialogue or actions can come directly from them. Draco Malfoy goes to Hogwarts for his first year. After being sorted into Slytherin and the night had fallen, a strange silvery bird gives him a message. The bird, seemingly a Phoenix, belongs to Albus Dumbledore, his Headmaster, who gives Draco a book upon his arrival in his office that same night. Draco has no idea what the book meant, but decides to go through with what Dumbledore has asked of him.

Ship: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter, Marcus Flint/Oliver Wood (background)

Genre: Adventure/Romance

Word count: 2,802

—————

Draco woke up early on Wednesday, the next week. The day before, the book had continued and Draco was thrilled. For some reason, he was incredibly proud of Potter getting on the House Team and really wanted to talk with him, although he knew he had to stay in character.

He got down quickly, telling Pansy not to disturb him too much that day. Draco was sure by her smile she knew it was because of the book. In the Great Hall, he left just as the six owls brought the broom. He had to wait for him in the Entrance Hall with Crabbe and Goyle.

The two boys followed him without a question and did exactly as he said, as not five minutes later, they had halted Potter and Weasley in the Hall. Draco took the package of a disgruntled Potter, feeling it and acting oblivious.

He fabricated his best jealous and spiteful look as he said, “That’s a broomstick.” He threw back the parcel and continued, “You’ll be for it this time, Potter, first-years aren’t allowed them.” It surprised him how well he could act.

“It’s not any old broomstick,” Weasley said. Draco rolled his eyes, aware it wasn’t in the book. He didn’t follow the rest of his talk and prepared himself for his next line instead. Was this how it was in theatre?

“What would you know about it, Weasley, you couldn’t afford half the handle,” Draco snapped at him, glaring, “I suppose you and your brothers have to save up, twig by twig.” He stopped and listened to the light footsteps nearing behind him.

“Not arguing, I hope, boys?” Flitwick squeaked in his annoyingly high-pitched voice.

Draco took a quick, deep breath and followed quickly. He feared too quickly to be believable. “Potter’s been sent a broomstick, Professor.”

Draco skipped the rest of the conversation, at the right times faking looks of ‘horror’, ‘obvious rage’ and ‘confusion’. Naturally, he didn’t really feel like that. He knew about everything that had happened in advance and was actually proud of Potter for being such a natural and being good in at least one thing. Draco figured that must be an accomplishment for him.

Draco dismissed Crabbe and Goyle, who hurried off to the Great Hall for leftovers of breakfast, and was joined by Pansy as he looked to the top of the marble staircase where Potter and Weasley were arguing with Granger. One day, those three would become the best of friends if they won’t leave each other alone.

“So,” Pansy nudged him as the boys and girl had vanished, “what was that all about?” He explained quickly to her about the broomstick and the conversation. “Is there more to do today?” she asked as he finished. Draco nodded.

“Tonight, at seven, Potter’s going to learn how to play Quidditch from Wood, his captain. I’ll follow them and watch from a distance.”

Pansy chuckled. “Are you sure you’re not obsessed with him? I mean, following him that late?” she asked him incredulously. Draco felt his cheeks heat up slightly.

“Of course I’m not!” he exclaimed wildly. “I’m just curious and want to know how much of the book is true.” He lowered his voice slightly at the end. Pansy looked at him for a few seconds.

“Sure you do, lover boy,” she said, turning around and going towards the Charms classroom. Charms, that’s right, first period, he reminded himself. He quickly caught up with her.

“What do you mean with that?” he asked her. She shrugged.

“Figure it out.”

—————

Draco ate his dinner slow, waiting for half-past six to come. At that time, he would make his way over to the Quidditch pitch to watch Potter’s training. Pansy kept bothering him, though, insisting he’s just obsessed with Potter. He wasn’t, right? He was just curious about the book. Either way, it was nothing really new for Draco so it didn’t bother him that much.

At half past, he dismissed Pansy and exited the Great Hall. The Hall itself was almost empty, except for a few fat students. Draco figured it would be better for them to not eat at all for a few months.

He happily made his way over to the Quidditch Pitch across the Grounds, the thought of seeing Potter fly again lifting his mood. At the Pitch, he stayed hidden from view while having a reasonably good view himself. He sat on his knees; the book opened on the ground in front of him on the correct page, hiding in the shadows of the early nightfall.

It didn’t take long for a figure to make its way onto the pitch, one Draco soon recognised as Harry Potter. He smiled to himself as he saw the other boy fly through the sky, not a problem on his mind, probably. Oh, how much Draco would give to be in his position, soaring, high, higher, way higher than the top of trees and over hills. Grazing the water of the Lake and pulling up straight towards the sky, night or day, it didn’t matter, only to dive back down. He just wanted to feel free, just like Potter, free from everything in his life, for even just a few minutes. But Draco knew one thing for sure: no way in Hell would he ever give up the book for this.

Draco didn’t know why, but the book gave him a strange sense of comfort. It’s true, Draco had always loved books and reading, but this one was just... different. But the good different, Draco decided. He soon became entranced by Potter, who was still flying.

He didn’t even notice at first that Wood had entered the field and called him down. Only following Potter downwards and his eyes falling on him had him remembering he had followed the book here. And a book always had a reason to include a scene. This time, the reason was that Potter would learn how to play Quidditch, and Draco was happy about that.

From the distance he was now, he couldn’t hear their conversation. Instead, he looked down at the book and read it. Draco had gotten quite interested in the difference between Wizards and Muggles, but now he was even more. This ‘Basketball’ Potter was talking about… He had insisted it was alike of the Chasers throwing the Quaffle through the hoops. It really intrigued him what those Muggles could come up with knowing they didn’t have flying broomsticks or Charmed balls.

Draco had his mouth gaping open as he watched Potter and Wood’s practise. Salazar, Potter’s good... Draco thought. He had never seen anything like that from an eleven-year-old. That’s what you’d call a natural. It disappointed him as they left the Pitch, but understood that it was too dark to continue practicing. He left a while later, making sure not to get caught by them of all people. Aware it was at least ten minutes past his curfew, Draco hurried down to the Dungeons as quickly as possible.

In the common room, he ignored anyone who wanted to spark up any kind of now meaningless conversation with him and went straight towards Pansy, seated in a corner of the room. He took a seat next to her, smiling brightly while mentally recalling the flying practice. Pansy smirked.

“So, how was it?” she asked him.

“Even better than expected, he’s a right natural at Seeking,” he responded, making sure not to make his voice too loud. She nodded.

“Care to study for our two upcoming tests tomorrow? Or do you want to continue dragging on until you can stare at him again during Astronomy?”

Draco spluttered. “What?” he asked incredulously, trying to cover up the heat covering his cheeks. “Let’s just study,” he decided.

“Okay,” she said, and Draco followed her to her dormitory, ignoring all the shocked stares of the Slytherins in the common room.

—————

After the book’s last entry, five weeks ago, Draco’s life had returned to that of most students walking the corridors of Hogwarts. It was a basic schedule for the school days; waking up, breakfast, classes, lunch, classes (none one day a week), dinner, sleeping. The time in between was reserved for studying and for some, Quidditch practice. On his strolls across the grounds of Hogwarts, he’d often seen a Quidditch team practicing. Slytherin and Gryffindor the most (he always watched whenever his eyes noticed Potter among them), at times Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff.

Draco easily recognised them by their colours; green for Slytherin, red for Gryffindor, blue for Ravenclaw, and yellow for Hufflepuff. He took these strolls quite regularly, sometimes with Pansy tagging along. Long walks had always done him good, let alone near waters. It was a way for him to get away from his life and responsibilities, to come at peace with his surroundings and to relax.

Now, he noticed, it was mostly just an excuse he used to get away from homework. His homework wasn’t all that difficult, however, let alone Potions. Potions was, after all, not just Draco’s favourite subject, but also his best one. And that was not just because his godfather taught it. In truth, it was kind of a bad thing. With Severus teaching a class Slytherins and Gryffindors combined, he never stopped poking in the Gryffindors’ mistakes and loved to practically harass them in front of the whole class.

In any regular setting, Draco honestly couldn’t care less about Gryffindors. There was, however, the small issue of one of those Gryffindors being an ebony black-haired, emerald green-eyed boy with a name so famous the average Slytherin would kill to never hear of again. Too bad for them there were laws against that. And, yes, Draco had made that ‘perfect’ description of Harry Potter himself during the times he analysed (“I wasn’t staring, Pansy, just analysing!”) him during Potions, Astronomy, Flying lessons or meals.

During that time, he wasn’t necessarily forgotten by his parents; his father sent him letters almost daily (of which he answered most, careful not to mention anything about the book) and his mother occasionally (three to four times a week) sent him a box of sweets. That was the fun thing of being him, Draco had mused one night after having eaten one whole box. He could eat all the sweets in the world and still remain as thin as ever.

At the beginning, Draco checked the book sometimes ten times a day to Pansy’s obvious annoyance. He had worked to build off that habit and now only checked it once, at most twice, a day. Which was way more reasonable in Pansy’s eyes.

Yes, Pansy, she was still a big part of his life. Even bigger than at the beginning of their friendship. Over the past two months, they had grown inseparable, always sitting together during their lessons, at meals and in the common room. Sometimes falling asleep together at the latter after a long night of what had started off as studying, but which had soon changed into an exchange of rumours. Many people would call that ‘girly’ talk, but Draco had found himself enjoying it thoroughly.

He was glad to have a friend like Pansy, someone to laugh with and, Draco’s pride crumbled every time he remembered it, open your heart to. Draco still remembered that day vividly, the day he’d broken down. He was honestly so glad Pansy had never brought it up again and even refrained from going deeper in on sensible topics like abuse or any of the kind.

The homework also started to get more over the time, but nothing Draco couldn’t handle with a bit of studying. After all, now there was nothing more happening with the book, there wasn’t really anything else to do. One thing Draco did have to keep in mind from the book was to be a git to everyone from Gryffindor, which, in the first place, wouldn’t necessarily be a problem. There was, however, the problem of a certain ebony black-haired, emerald green-eyed boy who happened to be in his year and in Gryffindor for which Draco had grown a strange sense of respect.

Still, he swallowed that respect and acted as much as a git towards him as he did towards every other Gryffindor. Maybe even a bit more...

On the evening of Hallowe’en, Draco sat down on his bed in his dormitory, Pansy next to him, both with plates filled with food. Draco thought it was crazy, what had just happened maybe a mere five minutes ago. He could easily recall exactly what it was...

Draco had made his way into the Great Hall for the Hallowe’en feast earlier that evening, Pansy at his side. They had sat down and waited for the feast to begin.

Right when the food had appeared and Draco had reached out for it, Quirrell had come running in. With terror portrayed on his face and his turban askew, he had run towards Dumbledore.

Once there, he gasped, “Troll — in the dungeons — thought you ought to know.” A mere second after, he had collapsed on the floor and the Great Hall was in an uproar.

Dumbledore had quieted everyone and sent them away to their Dormitories.

Honestly, what an idea to bring a whole house to their Dormitories, in the dungeons, Draco thought back. He concluded their headmaster just really didn’t like Slytherins, too bad a Slytherin was working for him. And since it seemed a pretty important task, Draco gloated, and only he could read the book, Dumbledore would be stuck with him!

Then, as thunder, it struck him. He dropped his plate, despite Pansy’s surprised look, jumped off his bed and hurried towards his trunk. He opened it and searched for a certain item. It had been so long since he had last looked at it. Two days, if he recalled correctly, which did feel too long.

Finally, with a sound of triumph, he reached out under a pile of books and took one particular book out of it, the green lamps giving the golden letters a strange glimmer, and the cover as dark as it had always been. He smiled and sat back down on his bed.

“What’s wrong, Dray?” Pansy suddenly spoke up before he even had the chance to open it.

Draco looked up at her with a small, almost knowing smile. “You know that troll Quirrell warned us about earlier?” he asked her, she nodded. “That’s not anything usual, now, is it?”

She frowned but shook her head. “What are you getting at, Draco?”

Draco smirked, lifting the book. “And what little friend of ours always causes trouble?”

He saw her eyes widen and she let out a laugh. “Of course!” she exclaimed, smiling.

Draco smiled back, seemingly holding her up because she urged him, “Come on! Are you waiting for him to walk in and tell you himself?!”

That shook Draco out off his daze. He gave her one last smile and glance before opening the book on where it had ended last time. And, just as he had guessed, it had continued.

Draco shook his head slightly, a small smile playing on his lips. He had kept such a close look on it all this time and then, just as he stopped for a few days, planning on enjoying Hallowe’en, it continued with valuable information.

He skipped the Charms class and immediately went to the attack. Wow, he mused, a while later when he had finished, taking on that troll on their own. His father had always warned him about some magical beings and how to defend yourself against them, but for trolls he hadn’t really gotten more information than: Run, try to confuse it, run and don’t look back.

He looked up to find Pansy staring at him, her eyes longing and curious. He gave her a small, playful smile and began telling her about the attack and the troll.

At the end, she gave him a meaningful look. “You know what this means, right?” He looked at her quizzically, before dropping his gaze to the last page.

He heard Pansy speak up again, but kept his gaze on the page, looking at how the words she said burned themselves into the paper in golden ink.

“There are some things you can’t share without ending up liking each other, and knocking out a twelve-foot mountain troll is one of them.”

—————

#drarry #harry potter #harry x draco #draco malfoy #hp #fanfiction #romance #adventure #rewrite #retelling #multichap #destinia: first year at hogwarts

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ramajmedia · 5 years ago

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Rick And Morty: 10 Times The Show Broke Our Hearts | ScreenRant

It's pretty safe to say that, when it comes to animated television series, there's never anything quite like Rick And Morty. While it's easy to associate an animated show with light-hearted and hilarious plotlines, this particular series has always done an amazing job when it comes to depicting the inner workings of deeply messed up individuals. Throw this into a cocktail of insane space adventures, and you got something incredibly unique.

At its core, Rick And Morty stays away from your typical sci-fi show. Instead, it chooses to smartly showcase the choices, misadventures, and often heartbreaking moments in the lives of a truly dysfunctional family. And it does so with such grace, it's absolutely impossible to remain indifferent. With all of this being said, let us dive a little deeper into some of the saddest moments in the history of Rick And Morty.

10 When Morty Was Roy

How often do we find ourselves completely disenchanted with the life we live? And how often do we wonder whether there's nothing more to our existence than doing the same, routine things, over and over again? These are the kind of questions that have the potential to send a lot of people into some a serious depressive spiral.

Related: Rick And Morty: Rick’s Top 10 Greatest Quotes (So Far)

And the show made a terrifyingly good job at depicting these haunting questions when Morty played the virtual reality game "Roy: A Life Well Lived". The most mundane and boring of lives, lived in real-time. Needless to say, when Morty came back, he did so in the possession of years of memories and a newfound fear for life most of us dread to even think about.

9 When Rick Sacrificed Himself

One of the most well-known characteristics of Rick's personality relies upon the fact that he is as self-centered and selfish as they come. More often than not, Rick has absolutely no problem putting himself and his needs before anyone else, which is more likely a symptom of his complex inner turmoil.

However, in the premiere of the second season, Rick sacrifices himself to save Morty when they find themselves stuck in between several timelines. He offers Rick his own collar to his grandson and fully prepares himself to die, showing audiences that there is something inside Rick that isn't completely destroyed.

8 When Morty Buried His Corpse

Leave to this show to completely scar you for life. There have been several instances during Rick And Morty that seriously made us reconsider our life choices and the way the universe works. But one of the scenes that best managed to send everyone into deep thought and maybe a glass of wine to calm the nerves was when Morty buried his own corpse.

Related: Even More Rick And Morty Gifts For The Fan In Your Life

It all happened after Rick and Morty are forced to leave their reality behind and find a new one where they can live after their respective counterparts died. It was truly shocking, particularly because there was nothing following the fact that would indicate somewhat of a better ending.

7 When Sleepy Gary Died

The mere notion of an alien parasite that has the power to infiltrate our brains and create people and loved ones that never truly existed is quite horrifying. And more than that, it's incredibly scary. When this happened to the Smith family, one of the characters that made their way into Jerry's life was Sleepy Gary.

Sleepy Gary became Jerry's best friend and lover. And the most heartbreaking part of this episode wasn't even the moment when Jerry cries over the remains of Sleeping Gary, but rather the fact that he simply wasn't real. How many times have we almost let ourselves create someone else and invite them into our lives to offer us a notion of love?

6 When The Meaning Behind A Catchphrase Was Revealed

Throughout the course of the show, we've had more than one glimpse into the incredibly complex and messed up psyche of Rick. He's clearly a broken man, struggling with a lot of anger and pain, which tends to come out in very ugly ways. But never was it more shocking or heartfelt than during this instance.

Related: 10 Best Raunchy Animated Series (According To IMDb)

Back in the first season of the show, Birdperson reveals that, in his language, Rick's catchphrase "Wubba Lubba dub-dub" actually means "I am in great pain, please help me". This moment hit home for a lot of people and dug even deeper into the mind of a man who is struggling immensely.

5 When Beth Shot Mr. Poopybutthole

Sleepy Gary wasn't the only instance during that particular episode that scared viewers for life. When everyone is busy shooting the creatures they think are the product of the alien parasite, Beth shoots Mr. Poopybutthole.

Well, as it turns out, this sweet and cheerful creature was indeed real. No one knew it, not even the viewers, which made the whole thing even more horrible. While he bleeds to death, Beth runs away and chugs wine in an attempt to cope with what just happened - a good hint that sometimes, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

4 When Rick's Car Made A Clone Of A Cop's Dead Child

Rick's sister Summer surely regretted ever having asked Rick to be a part of his outer space adventures as much as Rick was. And this fact became very much apparent once Rick leaves her inside his vehicle with the only words being "keep Summer safe".

Related: Rick And Morty: Rick Sanchez's 10 Greatest Inventions, Ranked

In an attempt to keep more deaths from happening, Summer pleas that the machine harms no one. However, the vehicle is as smart as Rick and takes on a different approach. This time around, it creates a clone of one of the cop's sons who recently died. The image of this clone dissolving in the arms of the parent who lost a child is bone-chilling.

3 When Rick Attempted Suicide

It's very easy to forget that Rick should be dead by now. Back in the second season of the show, Rick reconnects with a former fling of his. The two of them seemingly have a great time, but Unity ends up seeing how bad of an influence Rick is, and dumps him. And no matter what you think of Rick, something like this broke his heart.

RELATED: The Simpsons: 10 Times The Show Broke Our Hearts

Cut to him being drunker than ever and pointing a death ray at his head. The only reason Rick's still alive? Because he passed out before the ray finished charging. This was a truly heart-wrenching moment, that probably depicted the last straw for Rick.

2 When Morty Tried To Kill Rick

The relationship between Rick and Morty is hardly an easy one to define. But at the same time, the entire show is incredibly dependent on it. And while there were instances when Rick was willing to sacrifice himself for his grandson, there were others that were borderline abusive.

Related: Rick And Morty: 10 Supporting Characters We'd Like To See Return In Season 4

So it probably came as no surprise when Morty's inner accumulated rage against Rick came out. And in the ugliest way possible. You see, when Morty pulls the trigger in order to save Summer's life, he didn't see the note left by Rick. The one that said, "Fake gun, shoot me in standoff". Morty had all the intention to actually kill his grandfather, which makes this moment both incredibly upsetting and heartbreaking.

1 When Rick Turned Himself In

For a moment there, we all believed Rick had truly done the ultimate selfless thing. When, at the end of season two, he finally turned himself into the Federation, after realizing just how much his current status was damaging his family. He did so in exchange for them to be able to return safely to their own planet.

And beyond that, he didn't tell them what he did, leading everyone to believe he left his family again. It was a bittersweet moment, one of redemption and empathy for Rick. That is, up until we found out it was all part of his plan to destroy the Federation. Is it possible that maybe even a little bit of that heartbreaking moment was true?

NEXT: King Of The Hill: 10 Times The Show Broke Our Hearts

source https://screenrant.com/rick-morty-show-moments-sad/

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