#funny page may come later

[uncharted-constellations]

The entire ALBW team

Links about to become Lorules #1 hytopian fabric exporter

[hulloitsdani]

Hey so guess who did some Kiran expression work a while back and entirely forgot to post it

Welp better late than never. I would not consider this my gospel expression guide for them, but it was an important experiment in further understanding their face.

The format is wholehearted ripped from kitsuneisi's cuteguy and hotguy expression sheets. I will not directly tag out of the fear of being perceived, but please check out all of their lovely work. It's downright gorgeous.

Also here is a pupiled Kiran. As a treat.

[hunterrrs]

Bike rides, banana bread and being ‘a bullet’: How Sidney Crosby leads Penguins into a new era - SUCH A GOOD ARTICLE (also baby sid buying a car...)

Whether it was when Crosby baked banana bread for the Penguins two years ago or all the times he has recognized something was up with a teammate and checked in on them, everybody seems to have at least one Sid story to share.

Just as striking to these fledgling Penguins has been seeing how Crosby goes out of his way to make every one of them feel like part of the team.

“He’s so welcoming. It’s honestly crazy how he’s a better person than he is a player given how outstanding he is as a player,” prospect Jonathan Gruden said. “But he’s just an unbelievable person who makes you feel like you’ve been here 18, 20 years along with [Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang]. It’s incredible.”

For Broz, it was that ride on the exercise bikes or sticking around after an informal skate in the middle of July to share pointers with a prospect. For Gruden, it was Crosby texting a young pro who had just gotten called up to the NHL and inviting him over to his house to watch football with the guys.

And for Rutger McGroarty, it started with the text message that Crosby sends many players when they join the organization and quickly evolved from there.

It had been a whirlwind week for McGroarty when the Penguins finalized a trade to acquire him in August. His phone would not stop buzzing as the congratulatory messages poured in. As McGroarty scrolled through them, he froze.

“Oh, it’s Sidney Crosby! Not a normal text you’d get on your average day,” he said. “I was actually sitting next to a couple of my buddies and I showed them.”

A month later, McGroarty was cracking up on the bench at a joke Crosby made.

“He’s a really funny guy,” the 20-year-old said. “It feels like there’s no age gap.”

Crosby sat back at his locker stall at the practice rink the other day, flecks of gray peeking through his black hair and sweat dripping off his chin, as he thoughtfully discussed his leadership style and getting through to Generation Z. For example, McGroarty was literally in diapers when Crosby made his debut.

“I try to put myself in their shoes, but obviously things change. They evolve,” Crosby said. “I think the biggest thing as a rookie is just all the unknowns. You’re in a new league, new team, new teammates, new city. Everything is new. The faster you feel comfortable, that’s a huge part of being able to be at your best.”

Crosby knows his first taste of the league was different, right down to living with Lemieux. He laughed while joking that all these kids won’t crash on his couch.

For the 20th straight season, Crosby is trying to get the Penguins on the same page. They will ice a veteran-heavy team in Wednesday’s season opener. But eventually, the kids are coming — sooner should the team struggle again this fall.

Crosby’s little gestures will help these prospects feel more at home when they arrive. They still may be a bit starstruck. But they will know they belong here.

“It may not seem like it,” Gruden said. “But to a young guy, it means a lot.”

[lunearobservatory]

so. fic isn't done yet, but. size. bigger now. the word count is. big. big number now. yes. getting bigger, even. but still coming soon (as possible)

Must finish fic. Only title and rating, no more context. Thank u.

[ezdotjpg]

do you have any directors commentary on the recent two updates? 👉👈 the color palette is absolutely lovely! and and and WOLF!! :DD

OH BOY DO I

In the original draft of this chapter, Wolf stays a, uh, wolf until like the 4th update. Instead of actually managing to get his teeth on the master sword, Loft threw him off immediately. The Deku Tree still said the line about all three of them being heroes and Slate is like. “Including the fucking dog????!” I thought it was very funny but a) it made some scenes later down the line a huge pain and b) I was tired of drawing wolves ALDKDKD

You may have noticed Wolf’s scowling in the bg of almost every panel. That’s kind of just his face, but also right now my guy is nursing the world’s biggest migraine from popping the shadow crystal out of his skull. He can stay wolfmode for a while, but it’s still technically a curse. It’s not consequence free, and there’s an upper limit for how long he can spend in that form. Anyway, cut him some slack if he’s a little prickly for a bit.

There were a lot of comments about Loft being strong enough to toss a wolf over his head lol. My hc is that he’s one of, if not the strongest Link sans any magic items like power bracelets or gauntlets. He’s actually not even as strong now as he was during his quest. Wolf maybe has him beat now, but he can still get tossed lolol

It might seem like Slate’s really taken everything that happened at the end of ch1 in stride, but don’t worry. He’s simmering. Loft is grateful for the opportunity to get distracted by something else. Maybe that’s why he was so willing to approach the wild animal he’s never seen before lol

This maybe goes without saying based on the events of the last two updates, but Slate never had wolf link with him during the events of botw. He doesn’t recognize Wolf.

I’m really glad ppl seem to be liking the colors bc I struggled with them so hard on both updates 🫠literally days of me turning to my roommate and going “I think I’ve never made anything worse” and them going “it looks good stop being dramatic” WKDJDK I have this thing where if I had an idea in my head for what an update should look like, and what I produce doesn’t meet it somehow, I start seeing in fucking. shrimp colors. Posting always gives me a confidence boost back lol.

these pages were cursed in general bc like. this doesn’t usually happen but I think I redrew every panel in this update at least 5 times each. that’s part of why it ended up being late SKDJF

I REALLY like the idea of being in the presence of the Triforce and having access to its power being this eldritch, divinely horrifying experience. The sort of thing that is impossible to explain to anyone and also haunts you forever. Loft spends a lot of time actively trying not to think about the Triforce. Just, like, remember that about him.

Like how tears in reality are shown through holes in the literal comic panels, I tried to show the concept of reality bending in the form of a panel stretching and twisting like a ribbon ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ I hope that came across. Triforce lore varies a bit from game to game, but I’ve come up with my own internal logic for bonus links that combines all the ideas I like lolol. We’ll learn more about it in due time!

I also really like this parallel :D I intentionally set up the panels so past and present loft would line up like this. i love getting to draw flashback links it’s so fun to think of ways to convey what they used to be like, and how their quests might have gone for them. Past Loft’s not having a great time by the time he reaches this point lol

I think that’s all I’ve got for now. Thanks for asking :D

[nyerus]

The Narrative Importantance of Hualian's Sexual Intimacy

This is a repost and minor edit of a thread I made on Twitter yesterday. This is a topic I have always wanted to talk about because of how often it comes up in TGCF fandom, time and time again.

‼️CW: mentions of sexual assault, self-harm, bodily injury‼️

⚠️Major spoilers for the entire novel ahead⚠️

---

Saw a question the other day on what relevance Hualian being sexually intimate by the end of the novel had to either the narrative or Xie Lian's character arc.

In short: it bears significant relevance, especially in context of other themes the novel explores like bodily autonomy.

Throughout the novel, we see time and time again that Xie Lian is often dehumanized by pretty much everyone—including himself—with the sole exception of Hua Cheng. I've talked more in depth about it in an old twt thread, for those interested. @/stalliondany on twt has also made an excellent recent analysis that goes deeper into the specific ways Xie Lian was used as a physical shield, martyr, or scapegoat for others without thought to his humanity or suffering. I highly recommend reading it first!

But to sum it all up: it's important to Xie Lian's character arc to keep in mind that he is used to seeing his own body as a tool to solve problems. And in crucial narrative moments, he is robbed of his bodily autonomy, and either brutalized or violated in service of others.

One of the plot points that ties together all these concepts is actually... Xie Lian's chastity vows. That will be the main focus of this post.

When he was a young teen (or possibly as a child), Xie Lian took an oath of chastity because such was the norm for cultivators seeking ascension in Xian Le. To Xie Lian, even as he grew older, he never had an issue with this because he just never felt sexual attraction to another person, or any desire to be intimate in that way. Even if he yearned for the concept of being loved. And indeed, at first glance, his chastity vows may seem like nothing more than a side note. Or even a funny gag when it comes to Hua Cheng (later).

In reality Xie Lian's chastity vows are not only used against him, but paint a very disturbing picture with regards to his repeated violation.

The Land of the Tender scene is the most obvious example of this. Xie Lian's vows are directly tied to his spiritual powers, and because it affects how his followers see him. They place a high value on his chastity as being vital to his moral character.

For reference, an excerpt from TGCF vol. 3 of the English print translation, page 135:

Xie Lian's method of cultivation required a pure body. Those who worshipped the ascended cultivators who practiced this path were firmly convinced of the transcendence of gods untouched by earthly desires. If they couldn't protect their purity, their following would no doubt collapse and their powers would be devastated. It wouldn't be as serious as plunging from godhood to back to mortality, and there was still the possibility of recovery after many more years of cultivation—but with things as they were now, there was no time for him to sit behind closed doors and cultivate for years!

As a reminder: it is Bai Wuxiang who orchestrated this whole thing. Him trying to compromise Xie Lian in this way is horrific on many levels, yet that's not the main point I want to make here. It's that to preserve his "pure body," the solution Xie Lian realizes is to severely harm himself. To impale himself with his sword through the abdomen.

The juxtaposition of having to maintain bodily purity versus the gruesome violence inflicted on his body is extremely stark.

This grim contrast is no more evident than in the 100 swords scene. Where Xie Lian's body is literally brutalized and defiled to an unthinkable degree. To the point where he, quote: "no longer looked human." Yet he emerges from that temple physically "pure" all the same. His chastity vows were not broken, his body healed without scars. As though he was untouched.... And yet, he was completely destroyed mentally. It left permanent effects on him as a person. It's even worse when the scene is read analogous to sexual assault, as many have talked about before. I think that interpretation actually hits the nail on the head, especially keeping in mind the Land of the Tender scene and all the similarities between them.

Following the 100 swords scene, Xie Lian of course has a complete disconnect between himself and his body. I believe this is part of why he doesn't really feel pain, except when he is with Hua Cheng, who treats him and his body as one. As a person who is cherished, and loved. Hua Cheng is adamant in his adoring treatment of Xie Lian. Small injuries are also something he cannot tolerate because he knows what horrors befell Xie Lian in the past. (He was present at both the terrible moments mentioned above.) He will not let any of that continue, regardless of what Xie Lian says, because he sees it as injustice.

Xie Lian is willing to use himself as a tool to help others no matter the personal cost. He even thinks of it as something he must do, or that he deserves as penance. But Hua Cheng is the one person who asks "what about you?" He's the one that insists "your happiness matters." And it is Hua Cheng that takes issue with Xie Lian's chastity vows as being unfair, unlike everyone else. Regardless of Hua Cheng's reasons for this diegetically, symbolically it means a lot that he is the one opposed to this.

Just thinking about the chastity vows on their own for a moment: Xie Lian can indulge a little bit in stuff like alcohol, which isn't great to begin with for him. But he absolutely cannot engage in "pleasures of the flesh." He can totally have his flesh ripped from his bones, literally, but actually experiencing any kind of sexual gratification? Now that would make him unclean, and lesser.... Why? Because unlike everything else, that's something Xie Lian would do simply for himself to feel good. And what greater crime is there than to ever dare put himself first?

So Hua Cheng—being the one person who puts Xie Lian first above all else—thinking that such a restriction doesn't make sense is important. Hua Cheng being the person who Xie Lian breaks those vows for in the end is important! (Especially because it seems to have been an easy choice for him.)

And of course, the scene with Jun Wu and the Virginity Detector Sword™ has to be mentioned. Again, there's symbolism to be had! The perpetrator of two of the most physically violating moments of Xie Lian's life (both of which were sexual in nature; one literally and one allegorically) being the one to "check" Xie Lian's virginity... oof. Yikes. It's dramatic irony. It's deeply uncomfortable. Especially because Jun Wu probably wanted to know if Xie Lian slept with Hua Cheng, as he already knew Xie Lian wasn't the ghost fetus' father.

So it's once again a stark juxtaposition: of Ghost King Hua Cheng disagreeing with the purity vows, wanting Xie Lian to break them for himself and his own freedom. Versus Heavenly Emperor Jun Wu wanting to weaponize those vows against Xie Lian in whatever way he can, intact or not, to keep control over him.

Naturally, there's something to be said for the real-world problem with such purity vows being used against people, to judge their moral character, societal expectations, etc. Elephant in the room. It's very on the nose, so there isn't even much to say about it that hasn't been said already.

In the end, it comes down to how horrible it is that when Xie Lian tries to help others, it results in immense harm to his body every time. Yet he is expected to continue to bear it, for centuries, by others and also himself. Until he meets Hua Cheng, who helps him rediscover what it means to be happy, and to be loved. So yes, it's absolutely relevant that in the end, Xie Lian decides to break his purity vows to be intimate with Hua Cheng. That he's able to put himself in Hua Cheng's hands, and let himself be treated with affection and desire. It's Xie Lian finally forgiving himself, and beginning to heal.

[icyg4l]

PAC: May 2024 Predictions

Hello beautiful people! Later on this week, I will have a Five Dollar Friday Sale where any topic can be talked about. Please refer to my guidelines if you are interested in booking with me! Today, I will be giving you all some predictions about the upcoming month. I hope that those who resonate will continue to support me. For those of you who have been supporting me, I thank you. Without further ado, please select the quote that resonates with you.

Left-to-Right: (1-3)

Pile One: I am getting Taurus energy from this pile. I feel like you are going to be walking away from a situation that no longer serves you in May. It's going to hurt. But on the bright side, at least you are done with that chapter in your life. I feel like you are inviting new energy into your life though. It feels lively. I think that you need to be careful though if you go out to a hookah bar, or just go out into the nightlife in general. I am seeing that you will be going to a cookout. I am seeing the image of a thermometer's heat rising. I feel like you may have tension with someone that's super thick, lol. All in all, I feel that this month for you will determine the theme of this summer for you all. You got your wings, you've been promoted! It may be hard to focus on the positives because of your circumstances but you will survive. This month will feel weird because it’s like your on two ends of the spectrum. One part is good and the other is gone to shit, but all will work in your favor boo! See the good in life.

Cards Used: Page of Cups, Queen of Discs, Ace of Cups, 5 of Discs, The World, 10 of Swords, Justice.

extras: arrogance. cheap labor. pennyslvania. slabs. coney island. sweet! livelihood. perfume. body shapewear. antisocial club.

Pile Two: Idk why but your energy reminds me of Natalie Nunn lol. Not the messy parts but the part about her where she's unintentionally funny and fun to be around. Your energy feels very much party girl, I could easily get in this section if I wanted to type of vibe. Anyway, I think that you are going to be strengthening some platonic connections that you already have. But I also think that you're going to cut someone loose --- someone who has been around for a while. The name Harold comes to mind. Have you eaten Harold's Chicken as of recently, lol? I think that you're going to have sharper instincts as a result. You're going to see people for who they are. I am seeing the image of a butterfly flying on someone's nose. You will be growing up in the month of May. There is an emphasis on meditation. You're being called to devoting your time to staying in the present. You're being asked to go within and get more introspective. Also, cut back on the refined sugars. I think you'll be listening to Amaraae and Solange more often this month as well.

Cards Used: King of Cups, 3 of Cups, Strength, Death, King of Swords, The Hermit, Prince of Discs, 2 of Swords, The Lovers.

extras: big eyes. blonde hair. shapely. wiz khalifa. stunna shades. "i ain't going nowhere." "get comfy." gloomy. rainbow tips.

Pile Three: Someone in this pile is going to be reuniting with their family at a prom sendoff, at a graduation, a party. Either way, it will be a celebration. This pile will also be very grateful in the month of May. You are also going to have many opportunities to make quick money with the people that you love (not necessarily family but anyone that makes you feel safe). A love opportunity will be coming through for you as well. I don't see this as something you should take serious. I think you want to be independent right now, that person understands and they will give you your space for the time being. If you're trying to curate an event, don't worry too much about what people will think because it's going to be a big turnout regardless. I think some of you will be going to a wedding or will be getting married. So, congratulations to that! I also think that some of you will be meeting your future spouses in this pile (you won't know it yet though). Overall, I feel that this month is a great month for you to focus on community building.

Cards Used: The Emperor, The Hierophant, 9 of Swords, King of Wands, Justice, 3 of Discs, 8 of Wands, 4 of Wands, Ace of Cups.

extras: entrepreneurial spirit. aquamarine. blue butterflies. single father. "something cute, something for the summertime."

[spiral-lemur]

OK THE ANNUAL’S OUT AND I JUST NEED TO BABBLE ABOUT STUFF SOOO SPOILERS AHEAD READ AT UR OWN RISK ETC ETC ETC

OK STORY NUMBER 1.

Ok wow. No it’s fine really. Go ahead. Go ahead and BREAK MY FUCKING HEART right off the bat. They don’t even know later in they’re subconsciously Still following the path Starline mapped out for them by still aiming to replace Sonic and Tails. Like yeah this time Eggman is on the chopping block for real which would make Starline lose his gay little mind but GODDDDDDD

Also it’s really funny that the general perception is that Kit is the more mellow of the two. Appearance wise? Yeah. Mannerisms? For the most part yeah. But deep down this little guy is FUCKED UP.

Like every so often the comic just reminds you “see this cute little guy? he can and will drown you for nothing more than surge’s happiness if he sees fit.” Lil dude does NOT care. Genuinely curious as to how this plotline will develop later on since Kit is clearly misguided. Yes he wants to help Surge and she’ll be happy for a while with this arrangement…as long as she doesn’t find out. What happens when she finds out though? I doubt she’ll be very happy to know all her “accomplishments” were part of a carefully constructed narrative set up by the very person who was meant to support her. I’m just RRRRRRRRGGHRGGHHHRTHHHHHH about them yknow? Also I think it’s interesting that this is set sometime after issue 75; very curious about what “he had to drag them out of there” means for the safety of Restoration HQ and I’m even more curious about where Surge and Kit are right now. Are they still there? Bunking somewhere else? What happened with them and their ties to Clutch and Mimic? Lots of questions to wait and find out. Very excited to see how this goes.

Now for the Knuckles story; admittedly this one isn’t spinning around my brain as much because of the other two stories, but it’s still a lovely read. It serves as some insight for Knuckles’ thoughts about his current life and relationships with his friends and it brings a good ol’ smile to my face.

The art FUCKS as usual when ABT is involved. Like this page? This page right here. Gorgeous. Would be a very fun redraw I think. And I feel it says a lot about how Knuckles feels about these characters without having to say anything which is nice. Rouge, for all the trouble she gives him, also gives him an outlet to blow off some steam and a reason to keep up with his training(aside from Eggman of course), and she obviously wouldn’t be there if he didn’t respect her to some degree. Sonic is someone Knuckles views as a worthy rival, but he’s also a treasured friend alongside Amy and Tails. They may clash, but he knows that at the end of the day they’ve got his back, and he’s got their’s. The Chaotix are a little trickier to pinpoint, but they’re here for a reason. I believe they add a dash of excitement and companionship to his life. They might be a bunch of clowns, but they’re HIS clowns and he cares about them just as much as everyone else here. He knows he can depend on them when it comes down to it, which is what I believe the Master Emerald was trying to get at here.

Also Sonknux enjoyers got a little snack here. A little treat even. But it’s nice to see that just like these guys are still on Knuckles’ mind, he never left THEIR minds either. It’s nice to see that they aren’t just trying to get his help for something and just giving him a friendly visit because 1.) We get to see Knuckles and 2.) The dude could use a day where they don’t bring trouble to his doorstep LOL

Also what the FUCK happened to the Tornado guys I JUST said you weren’t bringing trouble to his doorstep you better keep it that way—

And then it ends with the gang catching Knux up to speed on their latest shenanigans. Like I mentioned earlier I think this story serves as a look into how Knuckles views his current situation, and it’s very heartwarming in my opinion. I think this sequence really sums up the big takeaway from this story:

sorry the quality is ass it’s hard to do these things on a phone

There was a moment where I thought that bright light echidna was Tikal, and I’m a little disappointed it wasn’t. It’s still nice but if it’d been her, you’d best believe I’d have a lot more screamy words about it. It’s not a bad story at all though, and if you’re a Knuckles fan who loves digging into his deeper thoughts I think this story is a good read for you. Also YIPPIEE KNUCKLES CONFIRMED FOR ISSUE 80!!!

Now for the story that I(and I’m sure many others are) am currently foaming at the mouth the most over. It’s no surprise at all that a look into Mimic’s backstory would be something I eat the fuck up as a massive fan of Tangle, Whisper, and everything relating to them. But holy WOW this story had everything I could’ve wanted and I will be using this as fuel for my Diamond Cutter Autism™️

Okay, starting off with him being an actor before joining the Diamond Cutters. This may not seem as relevant to people compared to literally everything else in this story BUT you guys. You guys. When I tell you I lost my shit. Why? BECAUSE I FUCKING CALLED THAT SHIT.

This excerpt is from a (now scrapped) fic where I tried tackling a possible redemption arc for Mimic. We hadn’t had any backstory for Mimic so I’d tried making one up that tied into his shapeshifting. I ended up scrapping the whole thing because Mimic kept getting worse/more irredeemable as a character and I didn’t feel like trying to keep it going; and I feel the need to bring up that Tangle and Whisper would’ve never fully trusted or forgiven him(like. at all), he just would’ve gotten over trying to kill them by the end. I swear I wasn’t aiming for a “you did this horrible shit but it’s ok you feel bad about it so we’re buddies now :3” type deal. Anyway, that useless bit of info aside, I wrote this thing back in 2022. It’s not EXACTLY the same way obviously, but seeing this after having written him as a former actor made me actually stop and gape for a second before scrambling to find that old draft. I guess I could just SMELL the washed up actor on him. And yeah maybe it was the most plausible thing, but I’ve been given an inch and just this once I’m going to run this mile in circles.

After the whole acting thing, the war started, Mimic wanted to show off, left some other teams for dead, etc etc and then he met THEM.

This…houghhhhhhhhh

Do you think Whisper ever thinks back to this day? Do you think it’s ever crossed her mind that if she’d never invited him, her friends might still be alive? Do you think this thought eats her alive on bad nights? Whisper honey I am so fucking sorry. It’s not your fault, you couldn’t have known how fucking shitty this guy really was. You didn’t deserve that.

FUCK!!!

Ahem. It’s really bittersweet looking into how these guys acted not just as a team, but as friends. We got a better look as to how these guys were personality-wise and it just stings knowing that this little found family is no longer here because one of them just couldn’t handle vulnerability. Smithy was like an older brother—wise, but just as goofy and playful as the rest of them, and just as ready to tease his little twerps. Claire was like an older sister; similar to Smithy, always looking out for the others, but just as ready to make fun of them. She was probably the straightman in a lot of their antics, but with that loving “oh, you” sense to it. Slinger was the goofy, cocky younger brother. Ready to go for the biggest thing he could find, and usually needing to be saved from his own ambition. He’d make up for that trouble by bringing in a lifetime supply of laughs for all of them. And Whisper…honestly I’d go as far as saying Whisper back then was just like Tangle is now. Optimistic, eager, bubbly. I wonder if that might be why she gravitated towards Tangle rather than the other characters she was friendly with; even before their miniseries. I’d show more images for this part but apparently I can only use 10 images on a phone and my computer still isn’t up so that’s just SWELL. For the last image I’ve got, I’ll just use this:

It just stings so HARD when you really think about what was taken from her. We might have gotten the Whisper we know and love because of it, sure. She may not have met any of the people she holds dear now if it hadn’t gone the way it did. But the fact that she had this little family, the fact she loved them so dearly, the fact she’d put so much trust into them—only to have it ripped away in one selfish decision? That’ll hurt forever. That’ll haunt her for the rest of life; it’ll haunt me too. God the Diamond Cutters sting so good.

Now let’s get Mimic’s little monologue in here. Ahem.

“I got what I wanted. Did I just crave validation? Was it ever about the spotlight? I can’t be myself around them. They don’t know what I’ve done…friendship is supposed to feel good. Solid. Like a foundation…so why does it hurt so much? They don’t see I’m a walking contradiction. One look p-past my facade and I’ll be thrown away! I can’t afford to be so fragile. I look back at my acting days with a soul-wrenching truth staring back at me. The more things change, the more they stay the same. It’s a rehearsed charade! They are all mirrors, saying what I want to hear until they get what they want. They can’t be trusted. I refuse to play this game anymore.

The moment an opportunity to be rid of these nuisances came, I readily took it. The Diamond Cutters would be gone from this world and mine. I could clear my mind and never feel such visceral pain from their fake smiles. Attachment was erased, like weeds pulled from a garden, as they perished. The pain inside nearly vanished, a good sign for my healing journey. Yet…there was a single, terribly annoying headache left to deal with. I can’t fix what that team did to me until I shatter every last one. Only with this knife, will I finally be cleansed.

I can’t think straight tonight. What is the point of reflecting on all these memories? Am I afraid? Or am I just…tired? Soon, that pain deep within myself will be washed away. And this can all be a bad, bad dream. I’m selfish, arrogant, and colder than a frozen lake. I enjoy the chase, watching others struggle, and I love that about me! I know what I am, so…who are you?”

Man…a LOT to unpack here.

Mimic is a coward. There’s certainly vitriol to my words, but it’s also just a fact based on the evidence we’ve seen. He’d been burned so many times chasing the spotlight in the past, he’d grown to view it as conditional. No one ever truly valued his contributions in his eyes. He was just another part of an act, and when that act was over, no one would need each other anymore—so whenever he felt done with putting on the “show” of contributing to a new team during the war, he quickly cut ties. Some ways more permanent than others—we’ll never know for certain if he got those people killed like the Diamond Cutters, but he certainly didn’t care if he did. The show was over. It didn’t matter.

Then the Diamond Cutters came along. The show was going well, it was a broadway smash! Then the actor’s nemesis began to creep in; imposter syndrome. Mimic knew deep down, he didn’t deserve this success. How many people did he really cut down as he chased the spotlight? How many people had seen his previous work? How long until that all came back to bite him? He didn’t know. It terrified him deep down, judging from the moments of hesitation he’d shown in his monologue. Surely it began to gnaw at him more and more towards the end. He can’t trust them, his smiles were fake so they all had to be faking too, right? There was no way there was such a thing as genuine friendship, teamwork, or any of the like. If it didn’t exist in his world, it couldn’t have existed at all. It began to be kill or be killed; and Mimic intended to be the one doing the killing. So he cut them down too.

But Whisper survived. Whisper was a present reminder of the horrible, selfish things he’d done. As long as she’s around, he can never fully ignore what he’s left behind. He can never truly run away from all of it. So he has his sights set on her; killing her will surely solve all the pain within himself. It has to. It has to.

And he still hesitates. Maybe it’s the way suppressed guilt is manifesting itself, maybe it’s being overly cautious, he doesn’t know. He doesn’t care. Perhaps once there was a time he could’ve gone back on everything and reinvented himself, but it’s gone now. And he’ll run away from that possibility for the rest of his life. He just has to get rid of that last poster before he can move on to his next big show.

Or I could easily be reading way too much into it but who cares I’m having fun this way! Really enjoyed this story—easily my favorite of the three if you couldn’t tell from all that word vomit. This annual might just be my favorite of them all so far, and I’m excited to see how these characters continue to develop as the comic runs on. That’s just about everything I can think of to say, so that ends my babbling. Thanks to everyone who read this far! I don’t normally get so wordy but this annual really just activated something in me.

[megabuild]

"Is Etho's Lab Autistic?" - the greatest thread in the history of MCYTblr, locked by a moderator after 12,239 pages of heated debate,

NOT INTENDED to be a diagnostic resource or an "accusation/truthing" of Etho being autistic, but rather comparing autistic criterion as printed in the DSM-5 with various clips and common autistic experiences, since he has many autistic fans who relate to him. Also because it's a little funny and it's always fun to see more Etho clips. Some of these clips may overlap categories.

A: Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction.

Unaware of social conventions or context; makes socially inappropriate comments (especially to strangers)

Bdubs: "One of the first things he said to me... Bdubs, you are always sick. I never get sick."

"I was at the DMV, for like, fifteen minutes."

(Gem: "Sometimes the things that come out of your mouth are... unexpected.") "That's how you get laughs, Gem."

Lack of theory of mind (difficulty or inability to recognise cognitive differences- assumes everyone thinks similarly and will understand any references or explanations made, no matter how particular)

"PLETHORA!"

"It's the same noise tigers make when they chuff."

"Feel free to boo if you wish." ("Boo!")

B: Restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities.

Idiosyncratic or metaphorical language (language that has meaning only to those familiar with the individual's communication style) (also extends to a very particular or idiosyncratic sense of humour that appeals only to themselves)

"The Office is a good show..."

"Objectify them! Objectify them real good!"

"What's the deal with bathroom... peanuts...?"

"This is probably the greatest story you will ever hear in your lifetime."

"And he's like, Etho, don't go in there."

Echolalia (immediate or delayed repetition of sounds, words or phrases)

"Meow!"

"Deh-deh-deh!"

"We got go get wool!" (More mature jargoning than echolalia, but still)

Rigid thinking (difficulty or inability to understand humour, irony, or implied meanings)

"That's Not What That Is."

"I don't have social skills, Grian.."

Particular interests, often on unorthodox things or with uncommon levels of intensity

Sourcing exact clips for this one is tricky, but being a Minecraft YouTuber is one of the most autistic things a person can do imo.

Specifically, a redstone Minecraft YouTuber. Who invents stuff like the Nexus.

(On fireworks, something he's made frequent references to and also tried to make as a kid) "I'm like a kid in a candy store right now!"

Anxiety around change/transitional periods

"Whenever I'm recording a new series with a bunch of new people, the stress... I start to feel it in my stomach." (Gem: "Aw, that's anxiety!")

C: Other things I felt were relevant but couldn't decide on a category for

"I used to go out after rainstorms and pick (worms) up..." (Guude: "Would you let them go ever, or-") "No, I usually forgot about 'em... found 'em later all dried up..."

Cleo: "To be fair, Etho never claims he's a grown up, he just sort of.. giggles and runs away."

"Guys? GUYS?!"

Hiding in the bathroom at MCC

Vaxxed?

Mannerisms such as his "sleepy" or monotone voice from earlier years, or "whisper-shouting" rather than actually yelling.

Thanks

[frogchiro]

I feel I must point out. Krauser is most definitely thinking about you and Ashley going somewhere to make out together.

Also…. Living for the development of reader’s friend group in this AU!! Ashley, maybe sheva, Zoe, Ada?

And I think it would be sooooo funny if Donna was in that friend group

She would be soooo mad abt you being advanced on by her older brother.

Also…. Dying to know how Luis and Chris are also gonna fall under the spell 😈

I’m thinking for Luis that you’re made his lab partner in one class, and despite your obvious disdain for him and his friends, you absolutely save his ass on an assignment that would’ve totally fucked his entire grade if he’d failed. And you said something like “it would be sad if you had to waste the professor’s time by taking this class again just because of some stupid mistake”

And then he’s completely hooked. Starts calling you his angel, begging you to help him proofread thesis papers. Luis by no means an idiot, he’s probably the strongest academically in the entire frat, but he knows a resource when he sees one. He knows his shit, but he makes little mistakes from carelessness. You probably work at the writing center, and every damn paper you’ve ever looked at when he’s gotten a chance for a rewrite has improved by at least 10% when resubmitted. And there are hearts in his eyes when he watches you mark the fuck out of his pages with red pen, aye, so ruthless. Your look of concentration is so cute.

The knowledge that you work at the writing center is different from the upskirts— he’s not sharing that with his buddies, he’ll take any advantage (since when was this a contest?) that he can get!

-🐱

Tbh yeah, he did💀 I actually wanted to put that into the blurb but I was afraid it would take too long ;;

Later that night when his fuckass friends went to sleep he was probably jerking off to his nasty fantasies of you and Ashley, be it a three way or just imagining pretty and sweet you and the other girl making out, your soft tits squished together, your soft moans shushed by each other's soft lips </3 Yeah he's sleazy like that <//3

And yeah, Luis's part is very probable too! Despite being as much of a party animal like the rest of the guys, constantly smoking, drinking and partying (not to mention his nasty habit of flirting with anyone aviable) he actually takes his academics very seriously! He has a scholarship to uphold, not to mention his science research and pretty good chances at scoring a internship at Umbrella Corp. so he can't fuck it up!

...But he's still only human ey? I feel like due to the fact that Luis has 1000 thoughts running through his head per second some tiny details or errors may sometimes escape him, and one of those times that minor error almost costed him fucking up an assignment and 70% of his grade. Would have, if his 'princess charming' aka you, didn't step in and actually helped him by reluctantly reviewing his paper which quite literally saved his ass from Professor Wesker's wrath.

Luis was obviously thankful, praising you to high heavens and despite the obvious disdain you can admit that you kind-of tolerate Luis more than the rest of his friend group, you recognize a good student when you see one, besides you'd probably feel bad for Mr. Wesker if he had to listen to Luis's whining and explaining what he fucked up so it's better this way.

This doesn't save you from Luis's advances though! In fact he doubles down on them now that he realised that you hate him slightly less than the rest of his group! Yes yes Leon might have had a meltdown after finding out that you willingly (more or less) sat next to him in your shared class for an assignment you were paired up for but he will placate him with the secret photos he took of you to shut his friend up.

Also yes, he more than likely asked you to come over to his room for some...private tutoring, just you and him señorita~ And yes, the only thing he got back was a blank stare and a 'No thanks' but hey! Don't blame the shooter for shooting <3

[bubbless-s]

I love love LOVE your page. Your Harry Potter fics are my favsss. Your Kyle and Kenny headcanons were LITERALLY SCRUMPTIOUS, I WILL KEEP EATING IT UP.

But if I could, may I request the main 3 SP boys x reader please? Separately of course. Maybe they’re dating and having a sleepover together. Just hc’s on what they’d do at a sleepover with a partner.

If you could, fem reader would be preferred, gender neutral is okay though.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Pillow Fights and Stolen Hearts₊ ⊹ ᶻ !! ␥

- ʚɞ genre: fluffy! (as always no gender implied.)

- ʚɞ warnings: none (devider)

→Masterlist

Kyle Broflovski

ೀ⋆ He definitely begged his mom for this.

ೀ⋆ His mom allowed with the rule of the door being open.

ೀ⋆ You suggested the sleepover firstly and got him hooked.

ೀ⋆ “What will we do on the sleepover? Play truth or dare?” after Stan showed him the powers of truth or dare he is willing to try it out with you. A little tho! He isn’t awaiting it with heart eyes!!

ೀ⋆ Our lovesick fool made a little list of things just incase if you guys runout of things to do.

ೀ⋆ “Do you have games on your phone?” -Ike

ೀ⋆ Kyle got you a rose too! He gave it to you when you arrived at his house.

ೀ⋆ Imagine the surprise on your face when you open the door to Kyles house only to get a rose shoved to your face. A very well decorated rose at that.

ೀ⋆ The fun part is when night came.

ೀ⋆ Kyle being Kyle couldn’t sleep at all.

ೀ⋆ Why you may ask. 1. He has the worst bed hair ever! 2.What if he kicks you in his sleep?! 3. Can’t stop staring at your sleeping face

ೀ⋆ It was the most anxious sleepover to him BUT you know after rain rainbow comes.

Stan Marsh

✧ Stan had this planned out for months.

✧ He carefully planned each step like the “master mind” he is. He totally sucks at it but eh

✧ First he will impress you with his guitar skills then ask you to come over to his place for a sleepover.

✧ It was a solid plan until he almost puked out of nervousness.

✧ But things did work out in Stans favour nonetheless!

✧ This loverboy was over the moon that you agreed and went out to buy all the snacks in the world with his pocket money.

✧ Not to mention he brushed his teeth 12 times because you guys w-will..will kiss..such a blasphemy..!

✧ Stan also made a very romantic questionable playlist.

✧ “You deserve better.” - Shelley

✧ When night fell Stan and you found yourself under the covers.

✧ Sleepy but still talking. Too invested in the conversation but too sleepy to continue..

✧ The problems solution was a sweet kiss and a even sweeter goodnight bidding.

Kenny Mccormick

৻ꪆ Kenny was thrilled to have a sleepover with you.

৻ꪆ Finally he was going to see what your room looks like!

৻ꪆ Asking him to come over wasn’t hard at all, you just asked as someone would do normally and Kenny cut you off saying yes. If it was a comic it would definitely have big “!!!” marks at the end.

৻ꪆ When he did arrive at your place y’all did the casual things. Watching TV together, snuggling under the covers, Kenny chasing you to tickle your sensitive spots—

৻ꪆ Yea you heard me ladies, gentlemen and non-binary sillies, Kenny chased you till you were breathless only to trap you underneath him.

৻ꪆ For some tickles. You had to cry and beg for release!

৻ꪆ When night began its reign Kenny became more quirky.

৻ꪆ He would always steal kisses or his hands would wande—ahem Kenny Im trying to keep this family friendly.

৻ꪆ Anyway! Kenny is the best cuddle buddy out there if you are cold he will pull you closer to himself, if you are hot he will loosen his arms.

৻ꪆ If Kenny happened to be awake later on his thought could begin to wander to more evil places.

৻ꪆ But he wouldn’t do that to his darling..

৻ꪆ Until you woke up funny shapes drawn all over your face.

[lockandkeycake]

Ignore this post, my HoTD moots, this is going to be a long post you don't care about.

it's PJO/HoO rant time.

What can I say, Tumblr brings me back to the simpler times of 2016.

Y'all baby Frank too much. Like. Way too much.

Leo was a dick at times, no doubt. But I think y'all forget Frank was absolutely being antagonistic because he was paranoid over Leo looking like Hazel's ex. You can argue it's because Leo fired on New Rome, but Frank himself counters that claim and Leo is initially grateful Frank didn't blame him.

Frank was also the first one to bring up Sammy, not Hazel, just before that. Later, all before Leo says anything against Frank, Piper thinks Frank's behavior is because it seems like Leo and Hazel had a history. This is a longer bit of a book scene, but I feel like it gets ignored.

This is still before Leo says anything against Frank. I will be saying that a number of more times. Leo just complimented his ability and Frank responds with a pretty catty comment about Leo's physical abilities. You can see the difference in how he reacts even more clearly in a scene before, when Hazel is commenting on Frank turning into a dragon

Frank doesn't counter the idea to become a dragon, he just has an issue with leaving Hazel with Leo. Leo again, so far, isn't upset with Frank. He wants to prove he's trustworthy.

When Piper does her fun little exorcism on the lads, this happens. I have to say yet again. Leo has not insulted Frank at this point. Not a huge issue, Frank was a bit shaken up, but it was still kind of a dick move to just. Let him hit the dirt. I'll excuse it because it is very funny.

Later when they find out about Nico, this scene below happens. Leo has still not said anything against Frank at this point - Jason even agrees repeatedly with Leo, but Frank only glares at Leo.

After this, when Hazel is upset and leaves, Leo starts to likely say he should go apologize, but Frank cuts him off saying, "you've done enough."

We're a few hundred pages through the book now at this point. Frank has insulted Leo, he doesn't trust him, doesn't want Hazel around him, singles him out, and literally let him fall to the ground. Leo has not said anything against him yet.

Even Percy notes that Frank's mood is tied to his relationship with Hazel, and Leo seemingly threatening that.

(and for those who are curious - baleful means threateningly, or to wish harm)

This is when, after a good chunk into the novel, we reach Leo's first dig at Frank.

Then ~the iguana incident~ comes not long after, but if you're going to call this Leo bullying him, you'd have to include... Everyone. Since they literally all laughed at Frank turning into a lizard to get out of the finger trap. Hazel, Percy, Annabeth, everyone. Not a fun moment for Frank, I sympathize with him there, but I wouldn't personally call this pointed bullying. You may disagree but I do not think at the very least that Riordan intended it to be seen as bullying. This is followed by Leo sending Frank's dirty laundry out on Buford for awhile (though he does claim that it would be cleaned and returned to him, eventually we do learn the laundry is lost. This was not a planned thing by Leo, and I don't understand why this is characterized by some people as him purposely throwing away Frank's clothes.)

All this eventually leads to this exchange.

Gee, I don't know, Frank. Maybe because you keep glaring at him anytime you're around him to the point even Percy was like oh boy I got to get him off the ship before he folds Leo like a pretzel.

Later, Frank actually helps save Leo in eagle form, but ends up injured in the process - and drops Leo. I really don't think Frank meant to drop him, but Leo thinks Frank dropped him on purpose. That's kind of a big thing, even though it's a minor line.

Then, Frank is back to being untrusting of Leo. He's glowering, glaring, and again - doesn't want to leave Leo with Hazel.

When Hazel is alone with Leo, she finally takes the time to defend Frank.

So, clearly, Frank scares Leo.

Leo scares Frank.

It's a fun horrible little wicked web! It's almost like the author intended them to buttheads! Shocking!

I've run out of pictures to add!

I could and probably will continue this nonsense, but the general point of this rant is Frank is not just some totally sweet big guy who has never done anything wrong in his entire life, and characterizing him as such just makes him boring. He's self conscious, insecure, and lashes out at- boy, doesn't that sound familiar. Anyway.

He was kind of a dick to Leo, and Leo was kind of a dick to him in turn.

I'm pretty sure I had a better ending for this originally, that summed everything up, but now I'm distracted and just bitter they didn't kiss.

I didn't even have time to reach their interactions underwater.

[tantei-chan01]

The Giver. Mute Branch Au

Notebook talking has this "-"

Sign language is this "*"

Xxx

A scrapbook opens as Poppy narrates, "Years ago, on the night of the Harvest Moon, a mysterious troll paid our village a visit and delivered gifts to everyone becoming known only as ... the Giver." On the page, a little troll in a hoodie leaves presents in the pods, stopping to pose in front of the moon. "Every Harvest Moon since has been the same, leaving presents under the veil of night."

The little trolls in the pod leave for a moment, missing the Giver leaving them a gift, "Yay!"

"Which everyone loves...." Poppy suddenly shuts the book, "but it drives ME completely insane!"

A crowd of trolls looked at her in confusion, chattering amongst themselves.

"When you give a gift, you’re supposed to receive a thank-you card. It’s what separates us from the animals. And this Troll is making a mockery of the whole thing. " Frustrated, Poppy throws the book on the mushroom, Smidge behind her with a stern look. "Ugh!"

The crowd gasped, Biggie covering Mr. Dinkles eyes. Branch tapped a dazed Suki's shoulder and held up his brown notebook, "- I think I might missed a step from being in my bunker the last decade. Does she do this every year?-"

Suki shrugged, "Pretty much. I just nap through it. Thank goodness, I learned to sleep with my eyes open, right?" She snores with her eyes open, making Branch gasp and drop his notebook.

"Well, listen up, Giver. You may have escaped me in the past, but this year I’ve rigged the entire village with hidden alarms." She points to Smidge, who pulls a conveniently placed vine. Red and blue bell like flowers beging blaring out an alarm. "Which means I will catch you and will get what’s coming to you."

Smidge pulls out a purple bat (which I hope is actually rubber) with an eager face. "Yeah!"

"This!" Poppy pulls out a blue thank-you card and opens it to show off her card, making skills

Smidge nervously laughs and hides the bat. "Uh, yeah, that."

"So this is your last chance. Come forward now and take your thank-you like a troll." The crowd looks at each other, but no one comes forward. Poppy then hears a certain breathing pattern that she definitely recognizes as laughter, "Something funny, Branch?"

Branch signs, "*Yes, you.*"

"Hm…"

"*I realize I’m new to all this, but if “the Gifter” wants to remain anonymous, shouldn’t we respect that?*"

Biggie excitedly asks, "OH! Can I try translating?" Branch nods to the gentle giant. "Okay, you said something about making cookies for the Giver."

"Meep."

Biggie looks at Mr. Dinkles, "What do you mean I'm not even close?"

Reminding herself to help Biggie with translating later, Poppy responds as Smidge seems to be counting trolls, "It’s “the Giver.” If you’re gonna be a know-it-all, get your facts straight."

"Uh, Poppy, just did a hair count, and Satin and Chenille are absent."

Poppy quickly turns to her, "Absent?! On the Harvest Moon?" Her face switched to determination, "Let’s go, Smidge. We’ve got a new lead suspect."

"Uh, there’s two of them."

"We’ve got a new lead of suspects. "

Xxx

The scene switches to Satin and Chenille's pod, only to reveal Satin sick in bed.

Satin sneezes and then blows her nose into a tissue, tossing it into a pile next to her. "I love being sick. It’s like my body has a whole other side to its personality for me to get to know. Don’t you think?" She turns to Chenille, who's wearing a gas mask and carrying a spray bottle.

Chenille sprays at her twin, "Back, vessel of pestilence! Back!"

Poppy and Smidge sneakily walk up to the window, "You ready to bust these gift-giving punks, Poppy?"

Poppy pulls out the card and preps it. "Locked and loaded." She hears crunching and sees Branch sitting in a chair, eating a bag of popcorn. "Ugh! Don’t you have better things to do?"

"*Than watch you make a fool of yourself? (munches) Please, I cleared my whole day.*"

Smidge looks at him, "OK he definitely said something about you embarrassing yourself." Branch tapped his nose twice. "Cool." She smiles, then turns her attention back to Poppy, "Ignore him. How do we get ‘em to talk?"

"By using the oldest Troll interrogating technique there is-good cop, great cop."

Smidge uses her baseball bat to shine light into Satin and Chenille’s pod. Directing it to face Satin.

She flinches for a moment and then relaxes into it. "Ah! Ooh, that sunshine feels so good."

Poppy leans in close to the sick troll. "You know what else is good?" She takes out a cookie. "Cookies. And you can have them if you tell me what I want to know."

"Ooh."

She pushes the cookie closer, "Or if you don’t, either way."

Satin smiles. "That’s so nice."

"Oh, yeah?!" Smidge pulls a cake from behind and lightly slams it on the table, "I’ll give you an entire cake, no strings attached!"

Satin feels a bit conflicted, "Wow, I feel like I should at least tell you something."

Poppy gets right in her face, "Well, I’ll give you a back rub."

"I’ll write you a haiku."

Poppy bangs on the table, "I’ll be your best friend!"

Satin holds her head in what seems to be guilt, "OK. OK. I confess. I color my hair! I’m not a natural purple." She then points to her sister as the lights come on. "Neither is Chenille."

Chenille's eye twitches in disbelief, "You...are dead to me."

"Hold on. So you’re not the Giver?"

An unfamiliar laugh distracts the four, turning to see Branch leaning on his chair laughing, "*Bravo, Poppy. You really broke the case of the purple hair wide open.*"

Poppy growls, feeling a little conflicted, seeing as he'sactually laughing for others to hear. Chenille comments, "I only understood purple hair. "

Satin smiles a little, "Well, it's nice to actuallyhearhim laugh. "

Branch leans to far bach on the chair, knocking down the curtains, revealing what appears to be red wrapping papper. Poppy gasps, "That looks like the paper the Giver uses." She turns back to Satin and Chenille. "Explain yourself… ves!"

"That paper’s not ours."

Chenille explains, "Yeah, it’s so five years ago. Do you think we’ve been living under a rock?"

Smidge licks the paper, "It’s definitely the same-quality pulp, hand-cut edging," She then points to a logo, "and look at the insignia. It comes from Sky Toronto’s Party Shop.

Poppy turns back to the twins, "Ladies, I really hope Sky doesn’t tell me you’re the Giver, or so help me, I’ll thank you like you’ve never been thanked before." She walks backward and arrives at Sky Toronto’s Party Shop.

She walks with the older glitter troll as he gives out orders, "It’s crunch time, people. I need 200 piñata ideas on my desk by tomorrow morning." The workers walk away. "Queen Poppy, I’m honored, yada, yada, but let’s cut to the chase. There are 18 parties, 12 soirees, and at least five shindigs on an average Troll night all supplied by me, Sky Toronto." He snaps his fingers. "So time is glitter."

She holds out the wrapping paper, "Do you recognize this?"

Sky stops as a worker approaches him, "Pause."

The worker holds out the confetti samples, "Mr. Toronto, the new confetti designs for your approval, sir."

Sky throws each sample to inspect, "Pass, hard pass, too cliché." He stops at the fourth one. "Ah, that one. That’s the confetti of the now." The worker leaves, and he turns back to Poppy, "Yes, I recognize it. Not popular, except with one troll who picks up about 100 rolls once a year."

Poppy gasps, "Once a year?!"

Another worker walks up to him with a disco ball in her hand, "Hey, S.T. The boys in decorations just cooked up this new color. Thoughts?"

Sky thinks for a moment, "Hm. Not bad. But disco balls aren’t testing well. How about disco… cubes?" The worker gasps and walks backward, her mind blown.

Poppy tries to get his attention, "Let me get this straight. The Troll who gets this paper, you’ve seen him in person?"

"Many times." An explosion catches his attention and sees some workers running from it. "Don’t mind that. Accident in the trick candle division. We try to put it out, but every time we do…" Trolls bring in water and fire extinguishers to put it out, but the explosion gets worse. "I should ask Branch to see if he can come up with something to put it out."

Later, Smidge is getting a cup of water in the meeting room while Poppy is talking to Sky with Harper sitting with him.

"Okay. Just give Harper here a physical description."

Sky begins the description, "Body of a warrior. Earlobes of a poet. Butt that shimmers like the night sky. We done here?"

Poppy looks at the picture groans, "Describe the mystery Troll, not yourself." She turns Harper's clipboard to reveal a drawing of Sky.

Sky takes the picture Harper drew and hands it over to one of the workers, "My mistake. But I’m keeping that. The troll had dark eyes, a shrouded face, and hair the color of mystery."

Harper shows Poppy a picture of the Giver. Which is only a troll in a hoody wearing sunglasses. Poppy stammers, "What is this?! This isn’t helpful."

"I said I saw the Giver, not that it’d be helpful."

Harper takes back the picture she drew, "Wait. I’ve seen this Troll."

Xxx

Later that night, Harper Poppy and Smidge go to find the Giver, "I saw the Troll down here this morning… over by the tree roots." She points to a large tree. They continue to walk as the fog clears. Poppy gasps to see several gifts ready to be delivered.

Smidge is a bit suspicious, "Uh…"

Poppy looks on in awe, "The Giver’s stash. They’ll have to come back here before delivering tonight’ gifts. This is where we make out stand." As she tries to walk away, she hears squishing sounds.

Smidge looks up at her, unimpressed, "Uh, we’re standing in mud."

The royal moves away from the mud, "This is where we make our stand.

An owl is heard hooting in the background. Poppy and Smidge are hiding in the bushes. "It’s just a matter of time. Eventually, our Mystery Troll will have to come back to get the gifts, only to find…"

Smidge pops out of some tall grass, "Whammo! It’s a stakeout, boy!"

"Oh, yeah!" The two hear rusting. "That’s the Giver now!" The troll appears and seems to go to the gifts. "Gotcha!" She pulls a vine, and many flowers pop up. They shoot balls and streamers along with a thank-you banner.

Spiders jump down and sing, "Thank you!"

Poppy runs out of her hiding place, "Ha! I thanked you! I thanked you so hard! Yes, yes, yes!" She turns on a flashlight and pulls away the flowers. "Now, what do you have to say for yourself?!" The flowers reveal that it was only Cooper.

Cooper gives them a clueless smile, "You’re welcome."

Poppy is shocked, "All these years, it was you? W-why did you - When did you…" She puts her flashlight away and tries to calm down. "You know what? Just start from the beginning and tell me everything."

Cooper looks at her, "Everything? Okay. Darkness. Then I emerge from the womb, wearing this very hat."

(5 minutes later)

"And then the theme of my 7th birthday party was invisible friends. It was very well attended."

(2 hours later)

"And then, after years of hard work at graduation, my classmates finally turned to me and said, “You’re not in class.” (chuckles) We laughed."

(Another 2 hours later)

"And then some weird Troll told me if I came out here, I’d find some empty boxed for my empty-box collection. And then you trapped me and said, “Tell me everything.” And then I said, “Darkness. I emerge from the womb”-

Poppy stops him, "Whoa! Just answer this question." She takes out the picture Harper drew. "Are you or are you not the Giver?"

He taps the picture, "That’s the weird Troll that sent me here."

They looked at him in disbelief, "The Giver sent you here?"

A random green spider set down a package and pulled back up. "Special delivery from the Giver."

Smidge opens the present and reveals a letter. “Dear Poppy, I’m sorry. This was the only way. From, the Giver.”

"It’s a setup. The Giver wanted us to come here!" She hears the alarms sounding in Troll Village.

Smidge looks over the horizon, "Oh, my Guh."

Poppy quickly runs toward the village, "Halt! Halt in the name of gratitude!" She looks up at the pods to hear the Trolls cheering because their gifts were delivered. She falls to her knees, leans up towards the sky, and exclaims, "THANK YOU!"

The Trolls are celebrating their given gifts while a sad Poppy sits at her pod. "The giver won, Smidge." She opens her card. "No point in holding on to this anymore. She rips the card to pieces.

Smidge tries to cheer her up, "Come on, Poppy, at least you got a present, huh?"

Poppy takes the present, "A horribly wrapped present. Who uses so much tape?" She sighs, "Chenille was right. This Troll really must live… under a rock! (gasps) Trolly-moley. I know who it is!" She gives her present to Smidge and runs. Then she comes back to pick up her destroyed card. "I really regret doing that." Smidge takes both presents to her pod for safe keeping.

Xxxxx

We return to the tree to see a dark figure heading towards a cave hidden amongst the vines, "Hold it right there, Giver."

Poppy walks towards the figure and grabs their shoulders, "It’s time for you to be finally thanked." She turned them around to reveal, "(gasps) Mr. Dinkles!"

The hoodie falls off to reveal the cute little glow worm on top of some other pets. Smidge pops out of the bushes, "Wait, so it wasn't Branch?"

Poppy shakes her head, "If you're here, then who's with Biggie?"

Xxxx

We quickly go back to the village in Biggie's pod, "Isn't this wonderful, Mr. Dinkles?" He pulls out a brand new camera, showing it to a doll that looks like Mr. Dinkles, with a poorly hidden tape recorder on its back. "Meep"

Xxxx

"So if all of you are the Giver, why keep it a secret?" Poppy asks.

"Meep."

Poppy cooed, "Aww, you all just wanted to show your love for everyone by doing something nice."

Smidge pulls out a present from her hair, "Well, that explains the massive amount of tape. Must be pretty hard to wrap without thumbs."

Poppy cleared her throat, "OK guys, I still want to thank all of you, so how about you all come to my pod tomorrow for some special treats?"

The pets all agreed and waved goodbye to the two trolls as they walked back to the village. Once they were gone, they quickly ran into the cave. Dinkles flipped over a rock to reveal a pass code lock, he typed in some numbers, and a hatch opened. They all jumped in, landing in a very familiar living room.

"Meep." Well done, everyone. They all turned to see Branch taking off a dark hoodie and special night vision sunglasses. "Meep." She doesn't suspect a thing.

"Meep." Correct, Quiet One. Now, I believe we are to receive our payment.

Branch smiles and pulls out his special, pet friendly, triple fudge brownies. As he watches them enjoy the treat, he laughs silently, 'Sorry Poppy, but this is one secret I'd like to keep to myself for a while.

[anthropologyruinseverything]

“Warm Nights”

Chapter 2 - 2.9k words

Damian Priest x Black!CurvyFemReader

🚨The spice is mild, like lemon pepper, but it’s there! 18+ only please! 🚨

Request for @xbutterflius-effectusx 🫶🏽

I’ve really enjoyed writing this and it’s just taken on a mind of its own! This is halfway, I’ve got two additional chapters planned. Hope yall enjoy! It’ll also be found on my AO3 page.

Now on with the story!

Chapter 2

**Your POV**

Two days later found you and Rhea having brunch in an out of the way mom-and-pop diner in town. She chewed a french fry pensively as she mulled over the story you’d relayed about his behavior the other night. “I dunno why he’s such a dick sometimes. Fucking hell, they say we’re the moody ones.”

You laughed and but moved the fruit on your plate around with your fork instead of eating anything. It had stung when Damian suddenly went cold the other night but you’d be damned if you let him know. “Maybe I said something?” You sighed and Rhea launched a deep fried starch sliver at you.

“No, that’s all him babe. The least he could do is apologize.”

As if the universe found this whole situation hilarious your phone dinged with a message from a number you didn’t have saved. In French.

*Je suis désolé pour l’autre soir. - D.P.*

“Huh, speak of the devil.”

Rhea sat up and leaned in. “What? Did he text you?”

You nodded and showed her, her pale nose scrunching. “S’that mean?”

“It’s french, says he’s sorry for the other night.”

“He knows you speak French?”

Realizing he’d been listening and paying attention gave you butterflies. “Oui. What should I say?”

She hummed and folded her arms over her chest with a characteristic smirk. “That’s the best he’s got?”

You laughed at her, tempted to ignore the message when another came through.

DP: *Y/N? Is this the right number?*

Rhea barked a laugh. “Impatient much.”

Biting your lip you typed out a reply.

Y/N: *Yeah it’s me. Who helped you with my number and the french?*

DP: *Sami*

Ah, figures. You and the ginger had shared some good conversations at the training center and exchanged numbers when he had offered advice if you ever needed.

DP: *Let me make it up to you after the show tomorrow?*

That caught you by surprise. “Huh.”

“What babe?” Rhea was waiting, tapping a finger impatiently.

“He asked if he could make it up to me. I-I don’t know Rhea. Maybe I should just leave it alone.” Your feelings for Damian had come into sharper focus when you’d danced but it was clear he wouldn’t hesitate to hurt you in the moment. It was hard to admit when you like him so much but you’ve always been one to take things in from as many perspectives as you can. And when something like your hearts at stake you can’t be too careful.

DP: *Please?*

“What’s he’s saying now?”

“Please.”

“Ha, you’re serious? I’ve never heard of him being so nice. And apology *and* a please?” She sucked her teeth and made a funny face. “I’d like you two together I think.”

“Rhea…”

She snatched your phone before you had a chance to argue. “Hey!”

“Nope!” She dodged and with unfair speed fired off a reply.

Y/N: *Sí*

“I-ugh girl!” You thew her a glare but she just laughed. “Grow up!”

“Nevah! Now c’mon, we gotta make that meeting for the new tour.” Rhea hopped to her feet and extended a hand, leading you out the door as you stared at your phone.

DP: *Wear something nice, dark blue*

You felt warmth spread through you. Normally you may have taken offense to such a demand but from Damian it made you flutter in all the right places.

The only problem was you didn’t have anything in dark blue.

On the way to the performance center you and Rhea discussed plans to go shopping that afternoon.

“Puerto Rico here we come! Two weeks!” Rhea threw her arms open as soon as you two were clear of the swinging doors. Grabbing your hand she spun you both and the woman was so strong you didn’t have much choice but to let her pull you. “You don’t seem as excited?”

You shrug as you unlocked the car door and she started plugging the mall you’d decided on earlier into the gps.

“It’s just…why me? Don’t get me wrong.” You checked the mirrors and proceeded to start backing out of the space. “I’m thrilled girl but I wasn’t expecting a call up! I’m nervous.”

It had come as a shock when you’re name was read off for the impromptu short tour on the island. Not that you were complaining but now you had more shopping to do. It wasn’t your favorite activity but having Rhea along made it fun.

Thinking about what Damian may like to see you wearing did too. He was from Puerto Rico and this short stop was essentially a celebratory lap for the champ. Which made it all the more interesting you were chosen to go.

“Don’t be, you’d wipe the floor with half the girls and *will* have incredible matches with the rest of us.” She smirked at you while fiddling with the radio. “I’m more worried about finding you something for your *date.*”

You swatted at her for waggling her eyebrows and she laughed.

“It’s not a date!”

“How many times has a man told you to dress up just for an apology? Hmm?”

She had a point. You weren’t fresh out of high school or new to dating but that didn’t mean you’d been generous with your time when it came to the opposite sex. Your dreams had always come first, something that had been an issue in the past. Someone like Damian though…he might be rough around the edges but he would understand your drive and passion unlike your previous relationships. But was that what *he* wanted? There were his reputation and sudden mood swings to consider.

Begrudgingly you agreed with her. “Point taken. You’ve been his friend way longer, what’s he after?”

Rhea hopped out of the car as you slipped it into park, waiting to answer until you were trekking the parking lot. “Really? I don’t know. Normally I don’t hear much about his escapades but…”

“But what?”

“Well, he doesn’t miss your matches and he’s mentioned you a few times.” She took a deep breath and tried to mimic the Puerto Rican’s deep rumble of a voice. “Y/N is just so talented Rhea, and you see how she pulls the crowd in? Hear how they’re screaming for her?”

The dramatics made you laugh as your conversation continued, shifting into discussions of what cut dress and what color shoes would complement the dark blue he’d requested. Your phone buzzed as you two headed for dinner.

DP: *Find something?*

Your heart did a flip but you kept it cool as you responded.

Y/N: *Maybe.*

DP: *Pictures?*

Y/N: *Nope.*

Just because you were into him didn’t mean you were going to roll over at every demand.

DP: *Not even a teaser?*

Y/N: *Patience is a virtue.*

He didn’t know it yet but you were more than worth the wait.

——

**Damian POV**

Tossing my freshly dry cleaned suit on the bed I checked my phone again, glad I was alone so I didn’t have to hear Rhea of Finn teasing me about it. Still no text from Y/N. I wasn’t used to being in this position, pining over a woman.

There were still several hours before I even needed to be at the arena for my dark match with Jey and I had already knocked out my workout for the day so I allowed myself to flop back onto the bed, mindful of the plastic as I pulled up YouTube. Without thinking I searched up one of Y/N’s latest matches.

I loved to watch her move, the way her hair swung as she walked confidently down the ramp, how her costumes hugged her curves just right…what the hell. Leaning back into the pillows I unbuttoned my jeans while allowing my thoughts to stray, remembering how it had felt to have her back pressed to my front, how I’d had to be careful not to embarrass myself by feeling her up.

Closing my eyes I imagined taking that costume off, my mind filling in the blanks as I pictured her most intimate spots. I wondered where she’d like to be touched and kissed, where was sensitive and where would drive her wild.

Slowly I started to work my hard-on as I imagine capturing her full lips, pulling her in while digging my fingers into her hips. My goddess moaned softly, her own dark hands creating a beautiful contrast against my tan skin as I pictured her running her hands over my torso while lowering onto me.

“Fuck…Y/N…that’s it baby.” Speeding up my motions I pictured her doing so as well, her large breasts moving hypnotically as she rolled her hips. It didn’t take long and I was nearing my release, my balls tightening and hips twitching along with Y/N’s imaginary sighs and whimpers.

In my vision she leaned over me to drop a kiss on my lips before leaning back and crying out my name in ecstasy. I came to the thought, a powerful orgasm ripping through me as I groaned and bucked while saying her name like a mantra. I looked down at myself as my brain slowly came back to reality. “Shit.”

I’ve got it bad. Worse than it’s been in a long time. Swinging my long legs back over the side of the bed I grabbed a gym towel and wiped my abs clean before heading to the shower.

God help her when I *did* get my hands on those thighs, that ass. I’d make her scream for mercy.

The rest of the day went as usual, even if I got more perturbed the longer I went without hearing from her. Old anxieties and insecurities twisted in my gut. What if she’d changed her mind? The signals were there but she was so collected.

The truth was I had become used to women chasing me not the other way around. It felt good.

Hold up. I paused as I hung the suit. Since I’d asked her I’d been thinking of it as a date, as step towards something.

It meant giving her the power to hurt me, something I wasn’t sure I was ready for. The nameless women I’d spent many nights with couldn’t cause the same kind of pain my ex had if I didn’t care.

I could see myself caring about Y/N very much. Probably already too much.

It’s fine. We’re adults right? Maybe have some fun, maybe not, either way I’ll be over it soon.

At least that’s what I told myself through my match. I still hadn’t seen or heard from Y/N and was really starting to wonder if she was going to show.

Jey smacking my arm once we were back in gorilla got my attention.

“S’up with you dawg? You were distracted out there and that ain’t like you.”

“Ah, it’s nothing man…”

He crossed his arms. “Don’t sound like nothin.”

Asshole has become way more attentive and sensitive since he got together with his wife Rori. It was her fault. More than I was annoyed by him actually caring, I was surprised I actually wanted to sit down and talk to him about it.

I shouldn’t need to talk about Y/N and it’s not like I had the time right now anyway but I also knew Jey wouldn’t give it up without being placated somehow.

“I gotta get somewhere right now but I’ll -“

Finally my phone rang and the bearded man before me raised an eyebrow. “Is that your somewhere calling?”

Throwing him a glare I snapped at him as I answered her call. “Tell you later cabron.”

“Excuse me?” The voice on the other end of the line wasn’t thrilled.

“Sorry, not you Y/N. Jey…it doesn’t matter. Where are you?”

Her laughter made my shoulders slump in relief. “Getting ready, just realized you never sent me any details about where to meet you.”

I pinched the bridge of my nose, feeling like an idiot. I’d been so determined not to seem overly interested I’d skipped on basic manners. “Ah, I uh-Just meet me at the docks in thirty minutes and we can take my rental.”

With a giggle she disconnected and I took off for the showers for a second time today, shooting the middle finger at the Samoan laughing at me as I did so.

Exactly thirty minutes later found me jogging towards the dock as I pulled my own braids into a tie while trying not to lose my wire rimmed glasses down my nose. Coming to a halt I looked around for a second before Y//N stepped out from a different hall door a few years away.

The remaining air left my lungs in a rush. The knee length navy blue dress was a cold shoulder with long sleeves, covered with glimmering material that made her look like she’d wrapped her body in a starlit night sky. Shining silver heels made her legs appear even longer and her locs, some a complementary blue to her dress, were styled to the side in an elegant sweep, leaving half her neck exposed and showing on the perfectly simple diamond studs her ears. My heart thundered and my mouth watered.

“Damian? You look…” She gave a shy sweep with her hand, indicating my own black suit that had intricate navy blue patterns sewn into the jacket and a very blue undershirt. “Incredible.”

Taking her hand I smiled. “Sere de mí de estarán celosos.” (It’s me they’ll be jealous of.)

Letting me open the door she smiled and shook her head so I clarified. “I am trying to find the right words in English, ‘gorgeous’ isn’t enough.”

Ducking her head she looked so beautiful with that shy smile and glowing cheeks. Knowing she had the heart and drive to match her looks only made her that much more alluring.

We made small talk on the way to the restaurant I’d chosen, discussing the upcoming tour and our friends. Pulling into the parking lot I handed over the keys to the valet as I helped Y/N out of the car.

A few years ago the stares would have made me uncomfortable but tonight I was as too enamored with my company to care. It was undeniable we made an incredible pair. After the wine and food were ordered our conversation deepened, turning to things like faith and childhood. It turns out we were more compatible than I’d imagined as our laughter wound through the air and time stretched on. Hours slid by but it felt like it had only been minutes when Y/N finished a glass of wine and bit her lip, working up the courage for something.

“Damian, I’m having a really good time.”

So was I so I nodded for her to continue.

“But…isn’t this a bit much for an apology? I’m not complaining!” She held up perfectly manicured hands. “I just…I don’t know, I like you but I don’t want to read more into this than there is, ya know?”

I turned my drink glass over in my hand, the glass so fragile I had to be careful not to grip too tightly, too intensely or I’d break it. It felt like a good metaphor for the power my words had in the moment. The power I’d possibly be giving her. I

“I’m sorry, that was rude…I’ve had more wine than usual.” I realized I was taking too long to respond.

“No, it’s fair.” I sighed. “I’d like to spend more time with you.” The rest seemed to catch in my throat and I couldn’t force it out.

As if she understood she nodded and smiled gently. “I’d like that too. Friends?”

I didn’t fully grasp how she seemed to know what the right thing to say was but I appreciated it all the same.

“For now.”

Our trip back to the hotel was spent mostly in a content silence. Giving in I reached for her hand, enjoying the strength I found in it as she curled her fingers around mine. Excepting when we exited the car I didn’t let go, even when we stood in front of her door.

I’d told myself I wouldn’t push it anymore tonight. That I’d said and done enough.

But standing there with her in the soft yellow light of the hotel hallway I felt the spell she had me under deepen. Before I could talk myself out of it I pulled her close, wrapping an arm around her waist as she gasped, hands planting on my shoulders to steady herself. Not giving her a chance to pull away pressed my lips to hers.

Warmth spread through me, a better feeling than any shot of liquor. Her body melded to mine, soft and sweet as she responded, letting me in with a soft moan. Pressing her into the wall I let my hands wander down her side as our tongues got to know each other. It wasn’t until my hand made it to her bottom and gave a squeeze that she offered resistance, pulling away as her hand grabbed my wrist.

“Woah there big guy.” Stepping to the side she collected herself better than I could and moved into her room. Throwing a smile over her shoulder she waved before letting the door fall shut behind her. “Good night Damian.”

I stood there smiling like a fool for a few minutes before collecting myself.

“Good night Y/N.”

[rassicas]

My tags and other references

Pinned post. Please refer to this before sending me an ask! Note I don't answer every ask I get. I answer voluntarily and often on a whim, but sometimes I'll dig up months-old mail to answer.

First, an obligatory Splatoon Obscure Lore Reference Doc plug. Secondly, please don't DM me looking to start a general conversation about Splatoon or to ask me a Splatoon lore-related question. Put it in the ask box.

#asks is my general tag for asks, but it's a lot to look through. for more specific tags to see if what you want to ask has been answered already...

#splatoon lore - posts that include solid canon info. I'm a bit loose about tagging this.

#splatoon headcanons - posts that contain more speculative/headcanony info. I'm a bit loose about tagging this.

#splatoon translations - posts that involve JP -> ENG translations. I take requests if I find it interesting and reasonable.

#inkling language - posts related to the (deciphered) languages used within the splatoon world. I helped write this publicly available and editable page on inkipedia. I am begging you PLEASE look at the wiki page before asking me anything related to the Inkling language. You do not need to tell me if you've translated some small piece of text either, you can go ahead and add it to the wiki yourself if it's not already there. no im not doing it for you

#splatoon species - any talk of species beyond the standard inklings/octolings/salmonids goes here. NOTE: if you're wanting to ask "does X species exist in the splatoon world?" check the tag or PLEASE look at this list first because it will answer your question. if it's not on the list, it hasn't been mentioned in canon. If you have an ask about marine mammals in splatoon, I have a video essay on that. I won't budge on my stance that they're extinct.

#society - for anything related to society and culture in the splatoon world.

#biology - anything related to inkling/octoling/other splatoon creature biology.

#rotm #octo expansion - story mode-specific asks

#inklings #octarians #octolings #salmonids -species-specific tags

there's also character specific tags like #mr grizz and #off the hook ...ill have to clean these up later.

btw my art tag is #rassicarts. my main for posting funnies and anything not splatoon is @raptorials.

To askers: please note that sometimes I may end up coming off as blunt or rude in my responses. I don't want to be mean but there are a lot of people on the internet who try to talk to me, and sometimes, even to the nice people, I don't have the energy to sugarcoat my words. Please don't take it as ill will if I respond to you in this way. Thanks.

if your ask is just something nice, i don't reply to those, but i see them and appreciate it a lot. thank you

[thegildedbee]

Eavesdrop/Nightmare: May 14 & 15 Prompts from @calaisreno

The mail he’d retrieved from 221B has now sat on Harry’s kitchen table for three days. He’d felt drained that first evening, and couldn’t get himself to care enough to summon the energy to look through it; he figured after a night’s sleep he’d be able to focus on it in the morning. Except that he hadn’t felt that he wanted to start the day with the mail, not knowing if it would then throw the rest of the day off-kilter: best to tackle it at the end of the day.

Except that the white envelopes had glared too brightly in the kitchen light that evening, making his eyes hurt, and when he turned down the lights, the pile seemed best left alone in the halftoned dimness.

When he had sat down today with a ham and cheese sandwich at lunch time, Harry had loomed over him, set down a rubbish bin, and pointed at the pile, her eyes narrowed.

 “It’s not going to sort itself, John,” she says, as she sits down opposite him. “Maybe sorting out the pile will get you sorted.”

He takes a bite of his sandwich and screws up his face. “Ha, ha, very funny, Harry.”

“Here, little brother. I bet I can coax you with one of these,” she says, pulling a chocolate orange from her pocket and detaching a slice. “For every handful you get through, I’ll give you a slice as a reward.”

“Omigod, Harry, I’m not five years old.”

She raises an eyebrow at him. “Prove it. Chin up, Johnny.”

John grimaces. “All right. But I want a chocolate slice up front, in addition to the one that comes after I get through a stack.”

She rolls her eyes. “Okay. Deal.” She picks up three envelopes and places a chocolate piece on top and hands them over, and gets back up. “I’m gonna make a cuppa – do you want one?” 

“Of course, thanks.”

John chews and sorts, and sorts and chews; most of the pieces of mail do end up being binned. He sets aside a few that are from former clients; two of them had cheques inside. He’s been separating out what are likely to be condolence cards, and looks askance at them when he’s done. 

Harry nods approvingly, handing him a chocolate orange slice. He sighs. She hands him a second slice, and he gives her a sheepish whisper of a smile. 

What’s left are various advertising circulars for neighborhood stores and local take-away menus. In some ways these make him sadder than the stack of condolence cards. He can’t bring himself to bin any of those items and pushes them aside, and idly pulls a multi-page brochure toward himself. It’s glossy and expensive, like part of an informational campaign for the latest flash Mercedes or BMW, and has a full-scale photo of a moto-cross athlete off in some canyon area, who has made a spectacular leap from an outcropping with his machine, hanging in mid-air.

"What’s that?” Harry asks.

John shrugs, “Some sort of impact absorbent material for athletes.”

“For athletes?” she teases. “Then how’d you get on their mailing list? Your rugby days are a bit beyond you, mate.”

“Ah, sod off, Harry. I dunno," he says, flipping through the pages and seeing all the images of lab equipment and white coats. "Maybe it was something Sherlock was into. Looks like geeky chemistry stuff.”

“That may be so, but it’s your name on the address, not his.”

“Maybe because I was his blogger. Who cares? It’s not relevant to anything,” he says dismissively, tossing it in the bin.

“Well, here’s the rest of the orange. I’ve got things to do, and places to be. I’ll see you later this evening, probably after dinner time, yeah?”

“Sure, no problem. See you later.”

John reaches for the chocolate, a ragged, pensive mood settling in. He looks down at the brochure lying on top of the other discards in the bin, and then slowly turns to look intently at the stack of condolence cards. Reluctantly, he goes back-and-forth once more, and then stills.

Bodies flying through the air. Bodies falling. Bodies crashing. The familiar stuff of his nightmares. But something tweaks inside his head, and he tries to refocus on whatever fleeting point has flickered on, then off, before he can catch hold of it.

Bodies flying through the air, wearing protective material. Bodies falling, buffered by protective material. Bodies crashing, withstanding the impact due to protective material.

No! he says emphatically to himself, as his mind suggests that maybe, just maybe, his flying detective might have been similarly outfitted. No, no, no, no, no, no, no. Of course not. It’s absurd to think that. After all, he saw Sherlock’s body up close, felt for a pulse that wasn’t there.

He tries to calm his breathing, and to think logically, and not let his mind race along imaginary paths. No, of course not. Even if Sherlock had been wearing something like this, it doesn’t mean he survived the fall. And if he had, why would he have let everyone think him dead?

Just a magic trick, John.

John suddenly stands up and shakes his head in frustration. Is he finally going 'round the twist?

Surely, there would have been a sign. He looks down at the brochure, full of images of athletes doing extreme sports, and soldiers, and probably stunt people from motion pictures.

He walks over to the sitting room so that he can grab a sofa cushion, and then furiously punches it over and over and over again, hurls it across the room in disgust when he’s finished, and then collapses into the nearest chair.

Maybe he should he talk to someone? Who would he talk to? Mycroft? Um, no, he snorts. As if that fucker would ever give a straight answer. Plus he’d probably have him sectioned on the spot. Mrs. Hudson? What if there are other oddities to be accounted for? Even if she didn’t turn him away from her doorstep, looking at him pityingly, it probably wouldn’t do to discuss such things at Baker Street. Big brother was probably still eavesdropping, because, why not? Does a leopard change its spots?

And then the picture of Anderson showing up on his doorstep a few weeks back floats into his mind. It was a few weeks back, yeah? What had Anderson said? Something about Sherlock not being dead and his having picked up traces that showed that he’d been in Europe. At least John thinks that's what he said. The roaring in his ears before he smashed Anderson’s nose might have distorted whatever the tosser had been going on about. 

Disbelievingly, John thinks: Perhaps he should go to see Anderson? Maybe, John says to himself, shaking his head in doubt, a sour taste in his mouth. Surely not, he responds.

But what if what Anderson has to say isn't impossible; only improbable? John has no idea what to do. At this moment, for now, the only decision he's capable of making . . . is no decision at all.

........................................................ @calaisreno @totallysilvergirl @friday411 @peanitbear @original-welovethebeekeeper @helloliriels @a-victorian-girl @keirgreeneyes @starrla89 @naefelldaurk

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