#god egghead really is ending soon

[moonpaw]

aarRRRGH ONE PIECE!!

[mezzy303]

HI IN LIGHT OF CHAPTER 1114 OF ONE PIECE I AM COMBINING SOME THEORIES A BIT

It might be safe to say that I can axe my theory (here) that the world is sinking due to natural phenomena lol. BUT I'm gonna keep the idea that the people of the Great Kingdom knew the event would happen sometime in the future, and add on the one that connects Lulusia and Enies Lobby (here).

To summarize the latter, the One Piece Wikia has a trivia note on the Lulusia page that points out that the crater formed after Lulusia was destroyed is similar to the circular falls that surround Enies Lobby. This had got me thinking that 800 years ago, the same or similar weapon was used on an island (possibly the Great Kingdom itself) and the World Govt placed their judicial island over the subsequent crater as a monument to their victory and an example of the lengths they'd go for their "justice."

And now from the new chapter, Vegapunk has directly connected the rising sea levels from the Mother Flame weapon to the Void Century. “In order to understand where the world is heading, we must first address the past, specifically what happened 900 to 800 years ago.” This likely means that the weapon Imu and the Five Elders used existed 800 years ago, if one would need to know the past to understand what's currently going on. A threat from the past is also threatening the future. And I feel like with every chapter, there are more hints that suggest this weapon could be Uranus, the final Ancient Weapon. We know next to nothing about Uranus, except that it's one of the three Ancient Weapons mentioned in the Poneglyphs. Since the other two relate to the gods they're named after, many fans have theorized that Uranus will relate to the sky somehow. And as the lasers that annihilated Lulusia came from the sky, it's likely that the weapon is somewhere above the clouds, which would fit in the theorized theme for Uranus. Also the amount of destruction it caused aligns with what we've been told about the Ancient Weapons' potential. An island-sized crater in the earth that causes global earthquakes and rising sea levels certainly counts as mass destruction!

I've been mulling in my head since the last chapter that the Elders have had this weapon at least since the end of the Void Century, but that it could only be used with the Ancient Energy (the same energy the Iron Giant had run on) of the Great Kingdom and that technology was lost after its fall. And then comes Vegapunk who was researching this energy to create his own everlasting energy source to better the world, thus developing the Mother Flame. On a side note, I wonder if the Elders were using Vegapunk this whole time in order to create something that Uranus could run on. Idk I get that York tipped them off, but it seems too coincidental that the Elders would get a sample of the Flame and a guaranteed loyalist that can create it, and then order Vegapunk's death soon after. Vegapunk just seems like too much of a wild card to have been kept alive for so long.

But back on topic!! When the Elders were "testing the Mother Flame" on Lulusia, what I think they were really doing was seeing if that energy would work with Uranus. And because it did, they are desperate to make sure the Flame stays intact on Egghead, as it's they're only way to use Uranus. They've already shown the extent they'll go to in order to keep the world under their feet, it would be just a minor inconvenience for the world's land to sink if it means they can continuously subjugate entire islands in an instant (they live on the Red Line, what does it matter to them if sea levels rise?)

And if the Elders, likely some of the original 20 allied monarchs, had similar views 800 years ago as they do now, then it probably wasn't hard to conclude how they would use Uranus when they got their hands on it. And that could be the reason why Noah was built. Those of the Great Kingdom, a highly advanced civilization, knew the ramifications of using Uranus and thus were preparing for the inevitability of a world with little land. As Doflamingo mentioned, just 5 more meters of rising sea level would swallow up most urban spaces, so it would only take at least 5 more times of using Uranus to sink the majority of land globally (if each use causes sea levels to rise 1 meter). The World Govt then erased records of the Ancient Weapons to make sure no one else could threaten them with the other two, but also to hide the fact they already had one in their possession. And as a counter, the shipwrights of Water 7 passed down Pluton’s blueprints in case the World Govt got hold of that weapon too, which I had brought up in one of my posts.

I feel like with every chapter I'm reforming and rerouting theories lmao. Let's see how this holds up in two weeks 😂

[basedkikuenjoyer]

Pacifist & Prodigy

This chapter really felt like it was bringing the flashback back to the context of a bigger picture arc in Egghead. While also giving me more or less a bottled version of what I'd expect ten years ago from a flashback for Bartholomew Kuma and Jewelry Bonney. The last few used their story as a prop, I compared it to Forrest Gump, where we see God Valley and the founding of the Revolutionary Army. But here we're getting back to how this all ties into our main story.

There's two big takeaways for me. First, check out Abdullah & Jeet making a cameo! Cool on it's own, but that now leaves just Cavendish and Orlumbus's crews to pop back up since Wano was coming to a close. Fundamentally it makes sense for the Fleet to come back into play relatively soon. You get them in Dressrosa as you set your sights on the Emperors. WCI shows you the threat that scale of operation provides, Wano shows you how much you can do with those kinds of numbers. I still say, even if it's a choice of a few options, a final member serving as a Quartermaster suits that well. From there...we have to acknowledge a familiar concept cropping up again.

Since it's been a while, the reason I still have to wonder about Kiku is pretty simple. The ambiguous ending she had after the arc she had, the archetype suiting this type of delayed reveal, and how Egghead keeps jumping through these stories where our girl still ends up being the one who threads the needle on all of them. We've looked a lot at that through how certain pairs are often doing things adjacent to each other. Subtly asking "Anyone straddle this line?" Sentomaru & Stussy being the most blatant to me.

Kuma & Bonney are doing that here. Pretty simply. One's a bright, prodigious little girl making the best of what is honestly a rather sad, stifled childhood if you stop to reflect on it. The other a stalwart, pacifist defender of the masses who has curried an inaccurate, demonic reputation. Speaking of demons...

This last stretch is so perfectly creepy I adore it. Seems so smiley and charming and sweet...but Vega says it best. Dragon wouldn't like it. This is gross, twisting his arm into what we know ends up being just awful and the scene honestly does a pretty good job of showing Vegapunk isn't just naive. Yeah, he doesn't intend to do harm here but what is the road to hell paved with?

Man I hope the next chapter closes the flashback with the same trick as the cutaway. Snap back to like, an hour after we left off with one panel that raises tons of questions.

[yamatossideboob]

ONE PIECE 1124 Spoilers!

This week's toasts:

Egads!! A ne'er-do-well lurks yonder! Save us, tall and beautiful man!

DJ Albatross lighting up Longitude Festival uns uns uns uns

Tell that overgrown drumstick what for Vivi!!

I love these reminders that Morgans is legit dangerous. Like he could turn the whole world against Luffy & co by the time they reach Elbaf unless Vivi can put a spanner in the printing press.

Also I love Wapol handwringing in the bg, he's such a good comic side character lmao

"If the world is going to be destroyed, I don't expect to live though it anyway" HARD. FUCKING. LINE. Very D.

This is probably the greatest week of Morgans' life. At least since the end of the Paramount War, or maybe Roger's execution. Man's gonna be laying eggs when BB makes good on Catarina's Saturn copy.

Safe travels Sentomaru, you did jack and shit, and Jack left ahead of ya.

More seriously, given the next few pages, I wonder will Sentomaru be pivotal in a certain Admiral doing a face turn...

"Have you ever killed a close friend?" Akainu has a reason/s for being the way he is. And while I hate him as a fictional person, I also keenly want to know what that reason/s might be. Might this be foreshadowing...?

Oh fuck what if this is foreshadowing Akainu vs Kizaru down the line????

Seeing Stella's near-lifeless body like that, limp on Kizaru's light sword, is still quite upsetting.

"If you have time to sit there and doubt me... then come over here and see my work for yourself, you ungrateful brat!!!" fucking. felt. any lingering doubt as to how Kiz feels about this, begone. Fuck... He's an antagonist, but I'm really feeling for him right here.

"I'm sorry brother..." I'm fucking feeling this too, what a rare and sincere moment of non-bloodlust from Akainu.

Vegapunk asking for an escape from Egghead doesn't quite gel with the reveals from last week, but it's not hard to chalk this up to him keeping up the pretence to fool York, or else to get the Strawhats off Egghead with or without him.

Jimbei being part of the crew nbd, we love to see it. Two burly uncles assessing the adventure.

"moping over one geezer dying" stfu mosshead no one asked you. worst Strawhat back on his bullshit. I hope Sanji spat in that beer

omg they sit on giant chair

let Lilith briefly grieve her outer headmates Usopp, read the room pls

I'll be honest lads, I read this 'Satellites aren't dead' bit and just fucking laughed. Fuck sake Oda. If this wasn't wholly plausible given the whole Satellite hivemind situation, I would be seriously miffed! Alas, this was speculated heavily by many, and it endures scrutiny. Lilith probably means their personalities were uploaded to Punk Records as digital avatars, or something along those lines? Fuck it maybe we can get an Ace force ghost this way, why not.

Wait maybe Zoro's earlier line was pre-lampshading this turn? My bad Mosshead.

I just love Luffy's about-face. The gods bear fickle moods and Nika is no exception lmao

Aaaaaaaaaaaand finally here's the arc wrap feast. Aaaaah. Satisfying. Robin looking beautiful but of course. She'll reunite with Saul soon!!!!!!!!!

"I don't care if you guys end up as my enemies" I hope I'm reaching with this one but... can anyone tell me what foreshadowing is

Like what a strange and ominous remark. I know Luffy's whole MO is being benignly selfish but are we about to get some serious interrogation of that trait of his? No. No we're not. But it's an intriguing notion heheh.

Okay so this is almost certainly Shanks, right. I'm going from the shape, the glug of what's certainly an alcoholic bevvie, and the air of impatience about them. Shanks has been waiting, what, about a quarter of a century for this? You can't blame him for looking at the clock for clock-out time. Babysitting the dawn of the world is tiring work I imagine.

No word yet on the next chapter on the Viz site, so next week may likely be a break. 2 weeks will be a sore wait, but next time we'll either likely meet this waiting figure, or get some world developments en route to Elbaf!

Cya in September nakama! 💪✖️

[bandluvr97]

mbb 🎅

First off, Monsta X comeback next month! What are you hoping from it?

Ah yes, the gift giving holidays… they’re always so stressful, I’m scrolling Tumblr and online shopping as well.

So good that you’re sticking with it, starting a new job is sooo stressful until you get into the habits and things start coming second nature, although I supposed being motivated by such a good cause helps 😊 I’ve been at my job about eight months now, my boss lasted about two months before calling me out of the blue like will you PLEASE come clean up the messes? So now I’m here.

ALMOST OVER our struggles as Shownu Military Wives will come to an end soon. I cannot wait for his Just Some Dude videos with his egghead. And hopefully a dance cover quickly, I miss those, they’re always astounding. That video from 2020 Gayo, where he’s dancing with Ten? No shade or anything but I’m indifferent to Ten, but then there’s Shownu, significantly taller and heavier, still looking weightless and graceful even with all the additional mass. He makes it all look way too easy. Hey, hey, hey, he’s a totally normal size, much like me, since I’m also 5’11”. It’s not our fault people are short. When I’m my dad’s plus-one I have to wear heels so it doesn’t look like he brought a small child (he’s 6’5”) and then I’m like oh is this what it’s like for other people all the time?

I could sleep in one of their palms. And no, real people fan fiction makes me uncomfortable. But as a tall person, I do find it very funny when people pull the “he looked down at you” when the idol is like. 5’8”. Hongjoong from Ateez is one of my faves and that man is a short king but it isn’t embraced like it should be… he calls himself pocket sized…

I’m genuinely so obsessed with Duality. “God Damn” is so good musically and the video hits so hard. That shot is so devastating and he KNOWS it! I unfollowed soooo many people for acting like people who were affected by that video were fake fans for hyping it up over the group releases/other solo releases, cause I was like. Ongshimi was that bitch is that bitch will always be that bitch, but she did not address such a serious topic in such a caring and heartfelt way.

I’m not doing a whole lot outside of work right now. Mostly just music and photography and lifting since my performance trainings are on break for the holidays, acting ended in November and contemporary dance doesn’t start until the new year, but I found out last night that I’ve got a big trip at the end of January that I’ve got to start getting ready for, I guess. But I just put down the deposit on another set of piercings, so I’ve got that going for me. How about you, any hobbies?

Hey love ❤️ I KNOW RIGHT?!?! I’m so excited!!! They fell off the face of the earth for a month or two and they come back!! I have good feelings about this album lol did they say if it was a mini album or a full length album? Either way it’s going to be lit lol it looks hardcore but who knows lol what do you think? Are you excited?

Oh yeah you know it! Have almost everything ready but there’s still time before Sunday (Hanukkah) and what else will happen we shall see lol I don’t really celebrate with going to service or anything but I just have a nice dinner with the family lol wbu? Do you enjoy the holidays too?

Thanks!! It’s a bit tricky to balance things but I’m getting the hang of things and what not lol it’s mainly just file follow ups and other minor things but it’s a good experience to build up the skills ❤️❤️ lol!!! Cleaning the messes 😂😂 it’s good that you are still there and helping people with their things and also judging people for their spending 😂😂

FINALLY!!!! We are almost there and going to see our hubby!!!! It’s about damn time!!! I miss his egg head and his deep voice and laugh lol it will be good to hear this again lol do you think he still does dancing in between working with the kiddos? I hope he does a dance cover soon that would be awesome to see lol listen when he did that dance with ten I kept looking at the size difference between them and always led my gaze back to shownu lol!! I mean yeah no disrespect to ten he’s a not bad looking dude but come on you have a thicccc built man lol

Really? Your 5’11”? That’s so cool!!! And the shoes!!! Like just a few inches can make a world of difference and boost some confidence but then your reminded hey your (me) only 5’6” lol 😂 yeah having to be taller than others around you is a fun time and then you forget that there are others taller than you somehow?!?! It’s all good 👍

Oh yeah their palms look magical 😂😂😂 yeah sometimes it doesn’t do it for me like there would be really wierd ones where the guy is doing some wierd stuff and it’s just very odd 😂😂right????? Hongjoon is a short king and we love to see it lol but his eyes though??!?!? Like come on they are just intense sometimes lol what do you think of ateez btw? When did you start liking them? Lol yeah pocket sized isn’t the way to describe him like he doesn’t let the height get to him or anything lol he uses that to his advantage 😂😂😂

Lol!!! How often do you listen to the song or album? Like 2-3 times per day? Cus I listen to that every week cus it’s too powerful 😂😂 YOUR DARN RIGHT HE KNOWS IT!!! Like he has to know his power it’s crazy and hot all at once and he’s so good at it lol I thought the same thing about ongshimi! Like it will forever and always reign as an amazing song but there’s more room for other songs too lol and yeah sadly there will always be sasaengs there to ruin the fun but we gotta enjoy the music while we have it ❤️❤️

Oh cool!! What do you take pictures of? Is it scenic shots or people kind of thing? And music too?? Dang!! You are so talented!!!! Do you produce stuff or do you sing or both? Lol how did acting go? Did the music video go well? Or was it something else that you filmed? Oooooo a trip!!! Where are you planning on going?so you are just booked and busy love! And I’m here for it!! (Snaps fingers) lol

Yeah I have a few hobbies I like to take on sewing projects, do some reading, listen to tunes while walking and or dancing (for fun not for sport lol) and play piano from time to time! Also before covid the fam and I used to go on road trips all the time to the states and around Canada so it was good and I miss that honestly lol So it’s not as exciting as your adventures sorry to disappoint lol I’m more of a home body some days and road tripper other days in the summer and or winter lol

[saturnsstufff]

Hi Saturn!

I HAD AN IDEA!!!!!

I was watching Foolish’s interaction with the Eggheads. Maybe you could do a fic based on that interaction. Like y/n helps Foolish and Sam find tnt then when the Eggpire guys show up, Foolish would tell Y/n to hide a safe distance. Or the egg boys trying to use y/n to scare Foolish into joining the egg and foolish going full angry megaladon totem god. Also post protect/rescue wholesomeness and cuddles maybe? ☺️

I think Foolish is cool.

~🐈‍⬛

*happi happi sat dancy* big bad handsome god make brain go brrr

Warnings: swearing

Foolish- Goddess

   Well building you don't exactly expect to see much. As you know its mostly just placing what you need and then leaving. So in the middle of you building, it was easy to say you were shocked to see TNT. But sure enough with gentle hands you took the small dynamite sticks into your hands. You knew foolish wasn't the one to play around with TNT, especially around his sacred temple. You set the sticks down and looked around more, wanting to make sure none were lit or close to being lit. when you rounded the corner you were speechless. barrels upon barrels were filled with TNT. whoever put it here had full intentions to blow this place sky high.

   “F...Foolish...” You went to turn, try and run to find your lover. Tell him about the danger that lurked below his craft. Yet to your dismay that wasn't what happened. Instead you turned and smacked your head into a Netherite chest plate. the impact was enough to knock you off your feet, causing you to look up to who wore the armor. Bad.

   “well hello there” bad said, his head turning to face you. You couldn't see his face, only his white eyes seemly glowing down at you. you tried to shuffle away, not wanting to stay near the demon man. You don't know much about bad and company, but foolish told you steer clear of them and anyone associated with the Eggpire. so when you literally ran into them you were more than unnerved. You tried to Scurry up and away, yet Bad grabbed your arm and pulled you back against him. “Where do you think your running to, little one?” well you struggle to get away, Bad simply adjusted his arms into a choke hold. Intending to try and put you to sleep so you couldn't cry out for foolish.

   When Foolish went looking for you he was more than worried. No matter where he checked he couldn't find you. In the end he went for where you said you would be. When he found the remints of your work and the discarded TNT it was fair to say the gentle god was beyond pissed. With no trace of where you went he didn't know where to start. Luckily he didn't have to look far, when he stepped out of his temple he saw Sam running up to him. Asking if he has seen Hannah, Foolish declined. explaining that similarly he cannot find you. When the two boys turned to head for the portal they were disgusted by the sight. 

   Within Ponk’s arms was you, sword held to your neck as a deadly threat. It wasn't hard to see that you were a bit out of whatever was happening. Your eyes were droopy and were having a hard time focusing, they had even put a fabric around your mouth to keep you quiet. Your wrists were bound together, assuring you wouldn't be able to fight back. Not that you really could with your state.

   “Foolish I have a new proposition if your finally willing to listen!” Ponk said, his voice carrying across the desert land. Foolish couldn't help how his jaw locked. Using you as leverage was just absolutely crossing the line.

   “I suggest you let her go, Ponk.” Foolish’s kind demeanor was replaced with ice. He wasn't going to play around anymore. “You can blow my temple up... But if you dare lay a finger on her you will severely regret it...” At Foolish’s words you let your head roll. Trying to find where your lover was. Wishing nothing more than to curl up into his side and fall asleep.

   Ponk simply laughed at Foolish’s words, assuming the god was simply bluffing. “You cant do anything Foolish. Your just a simple man with no leverage!” Ponk paused briefly well his eyes locked with Foolish’s. “If you join the Eggpire no one has to get hurt. We’ll let her go. you’ll be happy, my brothers and I can promise you that.” 

   “I’m a peaceful man Ponk. Let her go and I’ll spare you...” Foolish’s calm tone was terrifying, he never rose his voice and yelled. He always choose to play it quiet.

   “You see, I cant do that. You either join us, or I’ll kill her.” Ponk stated flatly. At his words your blood ran cold, looking up at the man who held you. You couldn't tell if he was bluffing or not, but your eyes flashed to Foolish and Sam. pleading for one of them to save you at least.

   “One” Foolish said curtly. His eyes were flickering green, showing his patients was fleeting, soon he would morph into God mode.

   “You don't scare us Foolish.” Ponk said, slightly adjusting his footing. Showing he was slightly unnerved.

   “Two.” Foolish’s size was now growing. his skin hardening into pure gold. His anger was coming out, and god help anyone who stood in his way.

   “Were warning you Foolish...” Bad said carefully. Drawing his trident, drawing it back to throw.

   “My friends...”  Foolish stated. Bad attempted to throw his Trident at the God. A final attempt of beating the God. But it simply wasn't enough. Foolish merely held his hand out an snapped the trident within his hand like it was a small stick. 

   “You have made a grave mistake...”

   When you woke back up you were within Foolish’s arms. His hand gently rubbing your cheek as he laid out on the shared bed. The cool breeze blew through the Temple causing you to shift into your lovers side. Checking to see if you were ok, he looked down to you. Your eyes slowly fluttered open and glanced around. you couldn't recall what happened, all you could remember was Foolish growing in height before everything went black.

   “Good morning my goddess...” Foolish’s tone was gentle and loving, concern lacing through his words. your hand gently felt for his clothing, but instead found his bare chest. 

   “Wh... where... What...” you mumbled, trying to figure out where to start. He hummed and rubbed your back gently, a silent show that there was no hurry in finding your words. “What happened?...” you asked carefully, gently tightening your hold around his waist.

   He pressed his lips as he thought on his answer. Unsure of how he wanted to explain it, or even if he wanted to elaborate on it. “A new enemy of mine decided to test my boundaries...” he paused as he thought. “In the end they over stepped and paid heavily for it...” You nodded slowly as you hugged to him. His calm nature offering you peace. 

   The silence lingered for a bit until he spoke up again. “Do you feel ok?” he asked softly. You thought a moment and nodded. 

   “I feel... Different… But I'm ok” you said softly. He nodded and thought back to the moment. Would he tell you he had to kill you, to save you? He was your protector, but even then maybe he would wait to explain the extent of his power. You were too precious to him to loose. He never wants to scare you away... so maybe some things should stay hidden, that is, until you understand how much he would sacrifice for you. Because anymore everyone should know...

   You are His Goddess.

[nightingaelic]

Fallout 4 companions react to meeting Arcade Gannon?

Ever the curious neighbor, as soon as the sole survivor spotted the blonde, bespectacled man at the bar in the Dugout Inn, they drifted over and struck up a conversation. A drink or two later, the two were swapping tales about wasteland encounters, pointing at various holes in their travel clothes and pairing them up with fantastic backstories. When the sole survivor's companion finally swung open the door, they were given an inviting wave.

"Sit down!" the sole survivor encouraged them. "First round's on me. I'd like you to meet Arcade."

Cait: "Hiya handsome." Cait winked at the man in the lab coat and leaned on the bar. "I'm Cait. Never seen you around before. Where is it you're comin' from?"

"I, uh..." Arcade adjusted his glasses and ran a hand through his wavy hair. "West of here. Nowhere in particular."

"A free spirit, then? Just passin' through?" Cait looked him up and down. "Think the Science! Center might be lookin' for a new egghead, if those clothes aren't just for show."

Arcade tugged on his outfit self-consciously. "I thought it might keep Commonwealth raiders from shooting me on sight, if they thought I was a doctor."

Cait bobbed her head in a noncommittal way. "Or they might see you as an easy target. That is, if they don't spot that plasma pistol you've got in your back pocket."

Codsworth: "Hello to you, sir!" Codsworth exclaimed, bobbing excitedly. "Codsworth, at your service. Might I say, it is a fine occasion to meet someone nowadays who appreciates the importance of good hygience and care for one's appearance."

"Thank you," Arcade said, with a somewhat quizzical glance at the sole survivor. "And you belong to..."

"Well, I belong to him just as much as he belongs to me," the sole survivor jumped in to explain.

Codsworth waved them off. "Not to worry, the conventional assumptions are not unwarranted. I am happy to accompany and assist in wasteland adventures as necessary. When not necessary, I typically clean the house."

Curie: "Monsieur Arcade," Curie purred, with the special enthusiasm she reserved for introductions. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance. You can call me Curie. Have you been in Diamond City long?"

"Not long at all," Arcade replied, clearly intrigued by Curie's accent. “Parlez-vous français?"

"Oui, Monsieur!" Curie exclaimed. "Le français est si rare de nos jours. Où avez-vous appris?"

"Oh, um... des... des livres, principalement," Arcade stammered. "Books. It's not as good as my Latin, I'm sorry."

"Latin?" Curie switched gears instantly. "Etiam magis rara."

Arcade laughed. "Well, not where I'm from. Who are you? Linguists are practically unicorns, nowadays."

Curie sighed. "It is a long story. Perhaps we wait until Vadim brings the drinks, and we can compare notes?"

Danse: "Ad victoriam, Arcade." Paladin Danse shook the newcomer's hand with gusto. "Paladin Danse, with the Brotherhood of Steel."

Arcade's eyes narrowed. "Brotherhood of Steel?"

"That's correct, citizen," Danse replied proudly.

"Uh-huh." Arcade looked back to the sole survivor. "I had no idea they were in the area. Are you stationed in Diamond City?"

"Brotherhood operations are a strictly classified matter," Danse answered, furrowing his brow. "But our main base of operations is at the Boston airport, where the Prydwen is docked. You can't miss it."

"Well, that explains it." Arcade examined his drink, avoiding eye contact with the Paladin. "I didn't come in from the north. I'm sure it's a sight to see."

Deacon: "Nice to meet you." Deacon declined the handshake, instead crossing his arms and cocking his head to the side. "Nice tan. Been on the road long?"

"Too long," Arcade replied, retracting his hand and returning the calculated look.

Deacon grinned. "Alright, I won't pry. Welcome to Diamond City. Did Vadim try to poison you yet?"

"You watch it, John Doe!" Vadim shot back from halfway down the bar. "Or I call the guards, see if you actually do work the midnight shift, ya?"

"You can walk down to Danny's sign-up sheet for shifts and check yourself!" Deacon's grin grew wider. "And I'll tend bar. We'll see who can do a better job of it."

Dogmeat: Dogmeat approached the man's open hand, which he gave a good sniff. Soap, hot dust, a whiff of plasma cartridges: Nothing out of the ordinary. Satisfied, the dog opened his mouth to pant, tongue lolling, and accepted the scratch behind the ears.

Hancock: "Arcade, huh?" Hancock gave the man a winning smile and took one of the open stools. "I'm Hancock. First time in Diamond City? You're gonna love it here. Vadim and his brother really know how to knock you on the floor."

As if to demonstrate, Vadim delivered three shots of Bobrov's Best to the little group. "On the house," he offered. "Celebrating Mayor Hancock's newest business deal with yours truly."

Hancock threw his back, and when Arcade hesitated, he threw that shot back too. "Next one, buddy."

"Did he say Mayor Hancock?" Arcade asked. "Mayor of Diamond City?"

"Nah, nah." Hancock laughed. "God, wouldn't that be a riot. Ever hear of a town called Goodneighbor?"

MacCready: "Arcade." MacCready shook the man's hand warily. "Like the pre-war places that have a whole bunch of games inside them?"

"Actually, like the..." Arcade made a face. "You know what, never mind. Like the pre-war arcades, yeah."

"Oh, man." MacCready grinned. "There was this one I found once in the Capital Wasteland, mostly broken down of course, but it had one working machine in it. The Red Menace Whac-a-Commie. Someone took the whackers ages ago, but the little Red Menace guys still popped up and down. Duncan- my son- loved it."

Arcade chuckled. "Yeah, they're... they're fun. I found a Hoop Shot once, but the basketballs were all dried-up and flat."

"Gotta get yourself a Pip-Boy," MacCready replied, nudging the sole survivor's shoulder affectionately. "This one has a collection of mini-games for theirs. Atomic Command, Grognak & the Ruby Ruins, Pipfall... all the greats. Oh, I'm MacCready, by the way."

Valentine: "Nick Valentine. Pleased to meet you." Nick shook the man's extended hand with practiced warmth, giving him time to realize the metal grasp he offered was not a cybernetic, and the scar around his jawline was actually just where his synthetic skin ended.

True to form, the stranger's eyebrows shot up, his grip slackened and his mouth dropped open. "You're a... what are you?"

Nick gave him the standard line. "I'm a detective. But, if you're referring to the plastic and platinum bits, I'm also a synthetic man. All the parts, minus a few red blood cells."

"Whoa." Instead of the typical scramble to put some distance between the two of them, Nick was surprised to find Arcade's handshake tighten again at this explanation. "I've heard of people like you, but never thought I'd actually meet one. Er, well, one that was obviously living as a synth. Though I guess you don't have much of a choice, huh?"

Piper: "Arcade? Piper Wright." The reporter shook the newcomer's hand firmly. "So, what's your story? What brings you to the Great Green Jewel of the Commonwealth?"

"I uh..." Arcade looked flustered, despite Piper's encouraging smile.

The sole survivor came to his defense. "Leave him be, Piper, he just got into town," they scolded playfully.

"What?" Piper asked innocently. "Can't the town reporter ask questions around here without everyone telling me I'm being too nosy?"

"No."

"Town reporter?" Arcade perked up. "Is that your newspaper, on the way in? Public... something?"

"Publick Occurrences," Piper answered with pride. "Covering anything and everything worth hearing about that happens in the Commonwealth."

Preston: "Welcome to Diamond City, Arcade." Preston shook the man's hand warmly. "I'm Preston Garvey with the Commonwealth Minutemen."

"Minutemen?" Arcade asked, clearly unfamiliar with the term.

"We're citizen soldiers," Preston explained. "The people of the Commonwealth banding together to protect ourselves and decide our own future."

"So sort of like a free state?" Arcade straightened up. "Or do you have some kind of command structure?"

"Command structure." Preston chuckled and glanced at the sole survivor. "You're looking at it."

Strong: "Strong need to get moving," the super mutant replied, rubbing his big hands together. "Milk of human kindness not here."

Arcade took the mutant in with the air of someone who had dealt with somewhat-friendly specimens before. "I can ask the bartender if they have brahmin milk."

The sole survivor waved him off. "No, that's not what he-"

"Puny humans do not have milk!" Strong cut in.

"Wait, milk of human kindness?" Arcade looked confused. "Is that... Macbeth?"

The sole survivor sighed. "It's a long story."

X6-88: "Good afternoon." Rather than sit down, X6-88 adopted a protective stance of the sole survivor, completely ignoring the hand Arcade was offering. "I hope you know that if harm comes to this individual, your life will come to a swift end."

"Uh-huh." Arcade retracted his hand. "Bodyguard?"

"Of a sort."

Arcade turned to the sole survivor instead. "Is he always this much of a stick in the mud?"

They shrugged. "He's protective and slow to trust. Give him a bit and keep your hands where he can see them, you'll be fine."

X6-88 nodded. "Affirmative."

BONUS!

Ada: "Hello sir." Ada nodded her head in greeting. "I am Ada. I hope you are enjoying your stay in Diamond City. Did you experience any trouble getting to the stadium?"

"Nothing out of the ordinary," Arcade replied. "Sorry, you're an amalgamation I haven't seen before. Sentry bot and protectron parts for sure, but your head is..."

"An assaultron," Ada filled in helpfully. "I take it your region does not have many of these bots?"

"No, they seem to be more of an East Coast thing."

"Just don't get on her bad side," the sole survivor joked. "You don't want to be on the receiving end of an assaultron laser."

Gage: "Well hi there!" Porter shook Arcade's hand forcefully. "Porter Gage. Talked you into trying some of this swill, did they? Brave soul."

"It's not so bad," Arcade replied with a smirk.

"Oh sure, if you're lucky enough to have Scarlett bring it to you." Porter winked at the waitress, who paused in her service to flip him the bird.

"Mmm, not my type," Arcade admitted.

"Not your ty-" Porter blurted before putting two and two together. "Oh, gotcha. Well, there's always Hawthorne."

The raider waved to the adventurer in the corner, who waved back. Arcade sank as deeply into his stool as he could and blushed.

Longfellow: "Mmm." Old Longfellow rejected Arcade's handshake and took the offered seat, swinging around to face the bar. "Storm's comin' soon. Can smell it."

"Then it's a good thing we're inside," Arcade replied, his tone unsure.

Longfellow grunted his agreement and accepted the drink Vadim slid to him, downing it quickly.

The sole survivor scowled at him. "Guess he's not in a talkative mood today."

Maxson: "Elder Arthur Maxson of the East Coast Chapter of the Brotherhood of Steel." Maxson shook Arcade's hand confidently.

Arcade, on the other hand, looked like he was being violently pulled between an instinct to flee and an intense curiosity. Curiosity won out. "Maxson? Of the line of Captain Roger Maxson?"

"High Elder Roger Maxson," the Elder corrected him. "You know of him?"

"Well sure, everybody on the West Co-" Arcade stopped himself. "Never mind. What's an Elder doing in a dive like this?"

Maxson studied him intently, clearly sizing him up. "Shore leave," he finally answered, sliding into the offered seat.

Desdemona: Desdemona smiled coolly. "I know."

The answer took Arcade aback, but the sole survivor just rolled their eyes. "Dispense with the power plays for once, Dez. We're just trying to have a drink."

The Railroad leader raised an eyebrow, but she sat down. "Suit yourself. When did you arrive in town, Mr. Gannon?"

"Oh, for the love of..."

Arcade eyed her suspiciously. "I don't remember telling you my full name."

Desdemona lit up a cigarette. "You didn't. But I'm by far the friendliest person in the Commonwealth who's wondering why a Follower of the Apocalypse is all the way out here, across the continent."

[dbphantom]

Film Red was fucking phenomenal omfg

People were screaming in the theater during Those Moments. there was cheering and clapping during the end credits. the energy was glorious I am so so SO happy I got to see it in theaters bc I lost my shit

Gear 5 is every bit as cool as I hoped it would be and it was only on screen for like a minute maximum, people were gasping and shouting 'no fucking way' as soon as we saw Luffy's eyes, it was amazing. He doesn't even do anything really in that form, he was just hovering there, menacingly, but we were all LOSING IT

And my boy Usopp finally got to shine after SO LONG and he played such an important part bro I genuinely almost started crying I am so happy for him he got CoO Haki comparable to Katakuri and waaaaaah- also OH YEAH my favoritest boy Katakuri is in this movie too 😭😭😭 and Law!!! And Bartholomew!! And Fujitora! And tons of fan favorite characters make cameos in the credits as well they just went all out it's amazing

It's 110% fan service and I ate. it. up.

Also, the songs are REALLY good actually, oh my god. The RANGE???? I haven't stopped listening to some of them they're that good

Literally my only complaint was the cgi was awkwardly implemented (not poorly, it just looked a bit out of place with the constant movement vs the anime style of animation where stuff stays still for a bit). Like there's one scene with the five elders and Uta is on TV in the background and they're doing the anime talking thing meanwhile you can see her silhouette on the TV behind them just absolutely busting it down. It was so funny. It looks great though, it's 100% in the style of the anime, it's just the super fluid motion that was throwing me (and my friend) off.

Otherwise this movie went SO hard. I went with a friend who knew nothing about OP and he liked it so much he offered to watch more One Piece with me. Like. Omfg. It's THAT good. The only thing he said he didn't follow was all the attacks against the demon at the end but that's mainly bc he didn't know the power sets all too well. He described it as suddenly going Madoka Magicka on him which... Yeah, fair. Otherwise he liked it a ton and I... Bro that says a lot given an hour before we got to the theater he told me he thought one piece was set on earth during our pirate age so he didn't understand why there was tech stuff. Like. He thought it was like PotC that's how little he knew. And he still adored it (I explained Haki and devil fruit powers and stuff but he thought it was just a very high fantasy version of PotC... Shook him when I told him about Egghead lol)

This movie is SO good dude I can't I want to go see it again Right Hugging Now ahsgdhshhsd I can't wait for it to come out digitally because I am going to watch it at least 3 times in a row it just fucking slaps I highly recommend it even if u read all these spoilers it's just worth experiencing it yourself

[siriannatan]

Beeduo Oneshots - Technoblade and Foolish interjection #1

Technoblade spends a lot of his time napping. Naps were nice. No voices, no governments, no people trying to use him. Steve and all the other bears and wolfs were enough to keep the place safe from monsters. Between his naps, he would catch up on rare news with Philza, gathered more firewood, chucked some snow at Ranboo, remove some snow from the roofs. The longest he was up was when Quackity recruited him to help with the Egg, and as much as he didn't like the guy he didn't like the Egg even more. He just regretted they couldn't save everyone the eggheads lured in with that party.

That day Techno said 'hi' to Phil who seemed a bit distracted, and in a hurry, he said something about having to check something in Manberg. He would have to ask about it later. The plan for that day was to gather some firewood, he bid Philza farewell and went out with his axe, not his combat axe he got from Ranboo... It was weird that he was suddenly moving in with Tubbo, not that it was Techno's business, he was still part of the Syndicate and the last president of Manburg seemed to be very much against governments and formal wear on anyone but Ranboo.

It wasn't all that cold that day, for a cold snowy tundra it is, anyone not used to cold would have a bad time but Techno was used to it.

Foolish wasn't having a good time. After the trip to Tubbo's mansion, he made the genius decision to visit 'Philza', he wasn't looking for Phil, he was looking for Technoblade. Everyone was afraid of him and if Foolish managed to befriend the anarchist maybe they wouldn't mess with him and his building projects... Why was everyone living in snowy tundra's can't they live in a nice warm jungle or even better, a dessert. It was far too cold.

As far as wood gathering trips go this one wasn't so bad. Just half an hour was enough to gather enough wood, no lost monsters under the trees, hiding from the sun. Some wild wolves run away as soon as they saw him approach. On the way back, in the corner of his eye, he caught a flash of the sun reflecting off of something. Turning around he saw a person? Should the sun be reflecting off of people's faces? Walking closer he poked the person with a long stick. No response. It was a person, with golden shining skin, both his piglin side and the voices were screaming in his head, conflicting, agreeing. Gold! GoLd! EEEE Help. help. Foolish... Shark-man, Blood for the blood god. EEEE GOLD help Technoblade just pushed it all to the back of his mind. With a heavy sigh, he dropped the bundle of firewood he carried, took off his cape, wrapped it around the person, threw them over his shoulder and after picking up his wood again began the march towards his a little more distant than he thought buildings, plumes of smoke from chimneys and fluffy warm Steve. He really should get over how tall Ranboo is and stop wearing high heeled shoes. At least the golden person wasn't heavy. Techno soft GOLD EMERALDS SOFT Technosoft Philza PHILZA EEEEEEE At least no one was home to mock him in person as he came back with ab unconscious person.

The last thing Foolish remembered from before he passed out was cold. What he felt now was warm, fluffy and was tickling his nose "Achoo".

"Let's hope the cause was Steve and not cold," he hears an unfamiliar voice. It wasn't hard to see who it was, the room was small and full of furniture, Chests, alchemical stands a table and two chairs. Very shabby craftsmanship, Foolish was close to screaming at how simplistic it was. By that table sat the Blade.

Long pink hair let loose reached way past his waist adorned with a golden crown decorated with gems. Narrow thin shoulders devoid of the red cape he heard about, high heeled knee-high boots. Every part of Foolish screamed that this man was dangerous. Especially the red eyes focused entirely on Foolish, he could feel them moving between his forehead and eyes. Foolish didn't want to look him in the eye, instead, he focused on the emerald earring hanging from his ear.

"Steve?" Foolish asked. He could barely feel his limbs.

"My emotional support bear," The Technoblade said, little pig ears in his hair twitched as his jaw pointer a little to Foolish's right. With barely a move of his head, Foolish noticed what was the fluffy thing keeping him warm. A fully grown polar bear, softly breathing as it slept, "he likes ear scratches, I blame Philza and Ranboo for that. I'm Technoblade, but you probably know that," the host introduced himself as Foolish slowly moved his arm to scratch the bear behind his tiny ears, discovering that Thechnoblade's famous cape was currently wrapped around him, helping him keep warm.

"Foolish G. The God of Immortality, Sky and Oceans," he introduced himself, "I've indeed heard about you, Technoblade."

"And what is a god doing in my little anarchist commune?" The blade asked suddenly getting up and moving out of Foolish's eyesight, the right of his vision was just Steve, who was indeed rather happy with behind ear scratches he was receiving.

"Looking for help?" Foolish had nothing but two of his lives to lose, he could as well say it.

"Is there an anti-god government here now?" Technoblade almost sounded amused.

"Not really, it's just... even though I'm a god I'm not good at fighting, I swore off my violent days and people are kind of taking advantage of that, messing with my hard work, with me..."

"And you thought you'd ask me to kill them for you?" that sounded rather threatening.

"Not kill, just hang out around from time to time to spook them? Like if they think we're friends they might leave me alone?" This conversation was going bad way "I can... build something for you? I'm good at building. You saw Tubbo and Ranboo's mansion? I build it. If you need like... a separate house for Steve? Orafakemarriagetoavoidtaxes?" the last part was said very quickly and not necessarily was meant to say.

"Haeh?" Technoblade looked shocked, for the first time since he woke up Foolish saw him lose confidence. For a split second, he wasn't that threatening.

Once the confusion passed Technoblade laughed, loudly, and for a while. Steve gave his master (?was he ever tamed or did he enjoy the warmth and free food?) a puzzled look.

"That beats everything anyone ever used to get me to help them, I haven't laughed that much in a while. A marriage for taxes? There are no taxes here and I pity anyone who would try to tax me o my friends." That was it Foolish was going to lose his second life while trying to protect himself. "Achoo," suddenly the Blade sneezed. "Sorry, so why now? You've been here for a while."

"Ponk moved into my dessert, build a big red eyesore and put a cursed pumpkin on my head. At first, I was planning to take Sam out for a date but apparently, he isn't safe, at least that's what Tubbo said when I went for advice to him."

Techno laughed a bit more. "Why Tubbo? I never heard of him having any dating experiences."

"He and Ranboo are married aren't they?" Foolish asked still petting Steve. Techno's confused face was enough to answer "You had no idea?! It makes sense why they would... with Tubbo being a former president... I messed up. Please don't tell them I told you, knowing Tubbo he'll want another mansion, I can't do it, I hate chandeliers because of the last one I build him!"

"I won't tell them." Techno seemed to be confused at this reaction "I had my suspicions anyway, they spend too much time together for me to not be suspicious. What is your stand on governments?" the pink-haired warrior asked standing up and again disappearing behind Steve.

"Don't like them," Foolish said with a sigh of relief. "I destroyed a few back in my God of Death days..." he smiled fondly at old memories. No one would dare to put a pumpkin on him back then.

"Why did you stop fighting?" Techno asked giving Foolish a mug of tea. "I'm out of sugar, sorry. I would ask Phil for some but he went out and Ranboo is with his husband. Don't feel like going through their stuff."

"There is a limit to how much bloodshed one can handle, how many friends you can die because of your action, how many towns you can raise to the ground," he muttered looking at the dark liquid, it was warm, warm was nice, "I wonder, what is the Blood God's limit?"

"What is any other man's limit?" Techno said, "I know people call me that, I don't mind, it keeps some away  on its own, but in the end, I'm just a man, I may not age but I can still be killed."

To say Foolish was shocked would be an understatement. He took nearly on everyone Dream brought to his realm, almost alone not counting an army of Dogs and Philza. He fought them amongst a rain of TNT and Wither's. That was beyond anything any mortal was supposed to be able to do. "I think there is a God who very much enjoys your actions," he said sipping the tea, it was bitter but warm. Steve was snoring again.

"You were there at the Red Ball of whatever?" Technoblade asked ignoring what he had said.

"Yes, I...."

"I'm sorry we couldn't stop them earlier," that was surprising. hearing the most feared person apologise...

"It's okay. I'm not a fan of dying but it's okay, everyone else survived and that's all that matters, the Egg cult is scattered to the four winds, some have left it even. In the end, I'd call the day a win."

"I see..."

For a while, they sat in silence, crackling of fire and Steve's snoring being the only noises in the room until Technoblade sneezed again.

"Do you want your cape back?" Foolish asked, "Steve's plenty warm."

Techno just nodded as he was passed the garment. "I take it you don't like cold."

"Not really, I prefer my summer home, it's in the desert, it's warm there."

"I see... do people often miss with your building projects?"

"Not recently, I don't think many people know where I live and I like it that way. Nice builds don't last long in these lands. But I'm glad I'm here. I made some new friends meet some old friends. It's not all bad here."

Techno just nodded, He looked a bit more like a fearsome warrior now that he had his cape on. "So you need help keeping it that way?"

"And maybe keeping people from requesting outlandish stuff, if possible." Now that the main subject was back the atmosphere turned awkward again.

"So I'll just need to hang out around you sometimes, glare at people if they bother you and be an 'I'm sorry I have a plan with Techno' excuse?"

"Yes?" Foolish muttered into his mug.

"Any relations I need to be aware of? Friends, enemies, family members?" Techno asked.

"Puffy is kind of my father, Eret I used to know a long time ago, we once faked a marriage, destroyed some cults together, doesn't seem to remember me, Tubbo... we're kind of cousins and Ranboo is his husband... most other people I'm rather neutral towards, don't like eggheads... Sam creeps me out lately... Tubbo said he cut off Ponk's arm, don't know if it's true. Dream... Dream is in prison so I guess we won't have to worry about him. Dream XD tends to avoid me." Foolish never really thought about his connections to people on the server. "I'd rather we not cause much bodily harm unless necessary."

Technoblade just nodded, voices were rather quiet ever since Mr God of Immortality Sea and Sky woke up, it was like they were coming to him through a lot of water, and they were much less intensive. That was a nice change. "Okay, so I help you and you build my dogs and bears a nicer kennel? I don't mind what Phil build but the herd outgrew it rather quickly. I hope we don't have to be too showy about it." he finally said.

"I hope you're not agreeing because of what happened at the Ball," Foolish looked at him rather seriously, at least as much as someone buried in blankets, leaning on and petting a bear could be.

"I'm doing it so Quackity stops flirting with me, and to gave bragging rights over Dream," Techno said mate factly, "Look at me chat, I have a Husband and the Teletubby is in prison..." Techno forced a joke out "a warning, I owe Dream a favour. That and voices are quieter near you, is it some part of you being a God?"

Foolish blinked, he didn't know many people with voices like Technoblade's. "I don't think so, I can bring down lightning, enrage the sea, cause sandstorms, nothing to do with voices."

"Hmm, it's getting dark." Technoblade noticed, "want to stay here or should I walk you back to your dessert?"

"I can stay here with Steve and start on that new kennel tomorrow," Foolish shrugged, he wasn't ready for another trek through the snow, "We can go to Eret when coming back to do Ranboo and Tubbo and sign wedding papers."

"Okay, I'll try to figure out somewhere to sleep for you," Techno said with a bit of a laugh at the last part, "and you better tell me about those governments and cults and cities you wrecked."

[pinejayy]

The Forbidden Boyfriend ( Dr. Robotnik x Reader)

Part 1

Prompt: You are the little sister of Tom Wachowski, Y/N Wachowski, just 5 years younger than him. You had everything you could ask for, great friends, a great home, a wonderful job and a great realtionship between your bother. You also had a forbidden boyfriend and he was Ivo Robotnik. No one knows about you two and you tend to keep it like that. (This is an au where Robotnik doesn't get sent to that mushroom planet.)

Part 1 ( current one ) - part 2 

Word count: +3.1k

Warnings: Some mature stuff nothing to bad tho. Few cuss words. ( Rating PG-13 )

It was a lovely day at Green Hills, you were enjoying your day. Even though you were at work which you loved. What were you? Well you were a reporter for the local newspaper. Yeah you weren't writing articles for The New York Times but it's something you loved. You loved the stories you wrote, the latest thing you wrote was a battle between Robotnik or how the whole town calls him "Eggman" vs Sonic. It was one of your best pieces and you were definitely proud of it. But every job had their ups and downs. Like one of the downside was the amount of hours you had to work and all the rude comments you got from people. But that didn't bother you.

As you were about to clock out early since you were going to go home and get dinner ready for you and your boyfriend. As you gather your stuff, you clocked out with a smile. And when you did you got a text message, checking it out you smiled instantly. It was a text message from your boyfriend, Ivo. As you can see both of you have been seeing each other for a few months, he was really a great guy and he wasn't that guy everyone talked about or said. He was actually a guy with a big heart well mostly just for you. But no one not even your big bother Tom knows about your relationship with Robotnik. And you plan on keeping it that way. He was like the Forbidden Boyfriend.

"Hello sweetheart I hope you're having a beautiful day, like yourself. Are we still on for dinner at your place~."

You smiled as you read the text message, blushing. You immediately started to type back.

"Hello my handsome devil, and of course we are still having dinner tonight at my place." You re replied back.

"Okay sweetheart, see you at your place at 8pm. I love you."

"I love you too, see you in a few!"

And with that you started heading to your car and excited for tonight.

 ♡  ♡  ♡

As you got home, you made sure the house was clean. That the bedroom was clean and your bed was fixed. As you got done with your cleaning you went to go get dinner ready, looking at your watch it was 4:30pm. Just enough time to make dinner and get yourself ready. As you were just going make alfredo chicken since that was Robotnik's favorite. You began getting the food ready.

After an hour or so you finally got dinner ready, you also managed to make brownies. You looked at your watch seeing the time it was already 7 in the afternoon. You just needed to hop on the shower and get dressed.

Ah Robotnik was at his lab working on a plan to catch that hedgehog. As he was working he checked the time and it was almost time for dinner at your place. The Doctor smiled, he didn't know how he got you to be his, he felt like the luckiest man alive and especially with you being related to that Tom guy. He didn't how someone so sweet and innocent end up dating someone so rotten and rude like him. But as he gathered his stuff he walked out of his lab, saying his good-bye to Agent Stone and he headed to his car. And drove off to your place.

You quickly got ready, you made sure you heated up the food again so it's nice and hot once your boyfriend comes around. You were so excited for tonight actually, you two haven't seen each other in two weeks and just wanted to spend time together. Once you were done with your shower, you did a simple makeup and put on a nice black dress. As you were applying lip gloss you heard the door bell ring. You quickly made your way to the door, opening the door and there stood your handsome boyfriend. He was wearing his usual black clothing, which you found extremely attractive on him. You moved to the side so he could walk inside and when he was inside you closed the door and just wrapped your arms around his neck and bringing him close and crashing your lips against his.

He instantly wrapped his arms around your waist and kissed back, quickly he deepen the kiss. He just held you close against his body.

You soon pulled away for air. "God I've missed you so much sweetheart. I've just been so busy with work and all." You whisper.

He just pressed his forehead against yours. "I've missed you too." He whispered in your ear. "And that's okay my beauty." He looked down at you and smiled, he began removing his coat and gloves off setting them on the sofa.

You blush and began to pull him towards the kitchen. "You may take a seat sir. As I serve us Dinner."

He gave you a quick kiss on the cheek before sitting down. As you grabbed two plates, you began to serve for both of you and when you did you just placed the plate of food on the table. Robotnik just smiled at you, you lean in and gave him a small kiss on the lips.

As you guys ate in a comfortable silence, enjoying each other's company. You guys did make small take during your meal. Once you guys were done, you just smiled at him. Grabbing both the plates.

"I also have dessert!" You said with a cheerful voice as you took the plates to the sink and just putting them in there.

Robotnik couldn't help but smirk to himself and he stood up. He followed you to the kitchen. As you were about to grab the brownies but he stood behind you wrapping his arms around you and just started giving you soft kisses on your neck and your earlobe. "Dessert sounds good right now."

As you just stood there, you were about to say something but you just bit your bottom lip, giggling softly since his mustache always tickled against your skin. Turning around to face him. You kissed him and he immediately kissed back. Picking you up from your butt and he placed you on the edge of the kitchen countertop. You just wrapped your legs around his waist bringing him closer against your body.

As he deepen the kiss, he began licking your bottom lip asking for permission. Which you gladly gave permission. Both of your tongues wrestling each other. His hands roaming around your back and bottom. You moaned against his mouth with your eyes shut closed, both of you pulled away from that heated kiss, both panting for air.

He began placing small kisses on your neck. "So sweetheart how's work?" He asked. Still placing small kisses against your neck.

You titled your head to the side, giving him more room. "Mmhm it's great.. just stressful that's all."

He pulled away, looking at you. "Then come live with me sweetheart. I will take care of you and give you everything you could want. I want to spoil and love you."

"You know I would feel bad Ivo." You said. Okay let's be real here, Robotnik is rich and he could be your sugar daddy. But you would just feel terrible if he just gave you everything.

"Don't feel bad sweetheart, I want to take good care of you. Like the queen you are." He said, going back to placing small kisses on your neck. And all of the sudden he picked you up and started walking to the bedroom. You wrapped your legs around his waist.

Once you got to the bedroom, he kicked the door opened and closed it with foot. He walked towards the bed and placed you gently on it. As he did so he was on top of you, his hands all over . He was sucking the skin of your neck, probably trying to make a mark on you making you shiver and moan softly.

"I-Ivo please...I need you." You moaned out.

He smirked, usually he would tease you but he missed you so much and didn't want to waste any time by being a tease. He kissed you, and soon after clothes were on the floor and your back on the mattress and one thing lead to an other~

 ♡  ♡  ♡

As morning rolled around, you laid your head on Robotnik's chest as you both slept. It was a nice peaceful moment until your phone started to ring.

You woke up, groaning in the process. You sit up trying to be quite as possible since your boyfriend was still asleep next to you. You grab your phone from the night stand next to you and answer. Seeing the caller ID and it was your brother Tom.

"Hey Tom" You said, as you answered the phone. Yawning a bit.

"Good morning sis! I was wondering if wanted to come over for lunch today? Sonic has been wanting to see you." He said.

You smiled to yourself, looking at Robotnik seeing him sleep was the cutest. "Uh Yeah sure! It sounds like fun!"

"Sounds great! You don't mind me putting you in speaker, Sonic wants to speak to you." Tom said, throughout the phone. When you said it was fine, you herad Sonic's voice through your phone.

"HEY Y/N!! I SAW THE PAPER YOU WROTE ABOUT ME AND THAT EGGHEAD!" He said loudly.

Oh god why did he have to be so loud this early. But you chuckled. "Oh you did? What did you think about it?"

"Awesome! You made me sound so cool! And you made Eggman sound lame!"

That made you chuckle even more, you rolled your eyes. "Well I'm glad you liked it Sonic."

"Look Y/N we have to get going! We will see you in a few hours." Tom said. You were about to say your goodbyes and hang up.

But that's when you felt the bed shift, you boyfriend was waking up. "Mm Good Morn-"

You quickly clapped your hand over his mouth. Robotnik just looked at you, he raised an eyebrow at you.

"Is someone there with you?" Tom said, sounding concerned.

You laughed nervously "What no! That was just the tv! Look I have to get going see you later." You say. Not letting him answer you, you hanged up on him. Setting your phone down, and look at Robotnik and move your hand away from his mouth.

"Well Good Morning to you too." He said.

"Sorry about that honey. My brother was on the phone." You said, laying back down with. He just placed one hand on your waist and his other hand was playing with your hair. "He wanted to see if I could come over for lunch."

You just traced a finger over his chest. "Hm that's right, we can't let your brother know that his sister is fucking the enemy." He chuckled, joking around.

Your your head shot up, punching his chest playfully. "Don't say it like that!" You giggle.

He rolled his eyes. "It's true though."

You just gave him a look, but giggle. Leaning in you gave him a kiss. He kissed back and pulled away. "I had a great time last night." You said, as you were about to go in for an other kiss you heard a car pull into your driveway. Oh great what now?! You groan getting up, pecking out of the window and saw Tom's car pull in. Why was he here! He did live a few minutes away from you of course he's here.

You started to freak out. "Fuck, My brother is here!" You said. Quickly changing into something. Making sure you covered your neck with a sweater you didn't want your brother seeing the marks your boyfriend left on you.

Robotnik's head shoot up from the bed. "What? Why is that bastard here!?"

"I don't know! Just stay here okay." You said walking out of the bedroom and made your way to the front door and open it. Putting a smile on you began walking outside. You saw both Tom and Sonic stand outside they seemed to be focusing on the car that was Robotnik's... fuck "Hey Tom what are you doing here? I thought we were having lunch at your place in a few hours?"

"I just wanted to make sure you were okay." Tom said, walking into your house. You followed him inside but Sonic didn't come in he was too busy observing the car. He's seen this somewhere before, it just looked so familiar. But he couldn't put his finger on it.

As he then ran inside of the house. He stood by Tom. You just stood by the couch you noticed that Robotnik's coat and gloves were there from last night. "Yeah I'm fine, like I said it was the tv. No one is here."

Tom just let out a sigh of relief he believed you, rubbing the temples of his head sometimes he could just get so over protective over you. And when he was distracted you quickly shoved the coat and gloves behind a couch cushion. Hiding them.

Sonic just narrowed his eyes on you, he knew you were hiding something. He did see the coat it was a black one, it looked very similar to Robotink's. Sonic just narrowed his eyes at you. Were you and Robotnik working together?

"So who's car is that?" Your bother asked you.

"Oh that! I rented it! It's nice huh?" You lied. "But I need to get ready for later on."

"Oh okay, I guess I was over reacting. Come on Sonic. See you for lunch then ." Tom said, and started to walk out. But Sonic just stood there looking at you before turning away soon after. You just closed the door. Letting out a sigh of relief.

Robotnik walked out of the bedroom and to the living room. "Hm I should probably leave before your brother and that bloody hedgehog come around again."

You just nodded, pulling out his coat and gloves from the couch cushion. "Sorry about that. Just didn't want my brother seeing this."

He smiled, grabbing them and putting them on. "That's perfectly fine. But I must get going, I will call you later okay." He said leaning in to give you a kiss.

You nodded kissing him softly. "See you later, I love you."

"I love you too sweetheart."

And with that he left. Now you just had to get ready for later on.

♡  ♡  ♡

The afternoon rolled around and you were at your Brothers house. Maddie couldn't be there since she was at work so it was just you, Tom and Sonic. You and Tom starterd to catch up on each other, talking about work and what not. But Sonic just was looking at you. You didn't know why he was so quiet, the little guy was usually so talkative.

"I'm going to go to the restroom I will be back shortly." Tom said, leaving you and Sonic alone.

"What's wrong little guy, why are you so quite?" You asked him.

"Robotnik..you have something to do with him and I know it..." He said, giving you the stink eye.

"What no? Me? Come on he's the bad guy! Why would I be with him you're my friend Sonic."

Sonic just crossed his arms, but soften up when you said friend but didn't say anything else. But he still was suspicious about you. Soon after Tom came back.

"Ah look at the time! I really must get going, I have a other report to write!" You said. Getting your bag saying your goodbyes to both of them. You quickly made your way to the car, getting in and driving over to Robotnik's lab.

You were driving fast, not caring if an officer stooped you. As you pulled up to his lab you quickly made your way inside. "IVO! Where are you! We need to talk now! It's important!"

Robotnik appeared out of no where rather quite quickly thinking something is wrong. "What's the matter sweetheart?" He said hugging you. He began to get worried thinking something bad happened.

You hugged him back tearing up slightly. "That hedgehog... he's onto us!" You didn't want to lose Robotnik, you didn't want him out of your life.

Robotnik growled softly, that stupid hedgehog is going to ruin everything. He thought of something and then smirked to himself, he even began to chuckle. You look at him with a confused face.

"Don't worry honey. I have an idea to keep him off our backs." He said with a smirk, and he wiped your tears off. Oh he has something oh right.

♡  ♡  ♡

"Sonic you've been going at this all morning. My sister has nothing to do with that wackjob. Why are you all the sudden bringing this up." Tom said, as Sonic was telling him that you and Robotnik were working together.

"I'm telling you! His coat was in her house! And that car was his I'm telling you!" He said, throwing his hands in the air.

"Sonic just because she has some black rental car and a black coat doesn't mean she's working with him. Come on little guy she's your friend."

Maybe Tom was right, Sonic just nodded. "Okay okay maybe you're right." The Hedgehog did want to believe Tom but his guy feeling was telling him something else. But you wouldn't work for Robotnik right?

"Could you please just drop that subject and just take the trash out Sonic?" Tom asked him, Sonic quickly nodded grabbing the bag and when he opened the door a Drone came flying in. It was one of Eggman drones.

Sonic quickly got in front of Tom ready to fight it at any given moment. But as the drone just stayed there doing nothing. Making both Sonic and Tom confused. Until it spoke up.

"Well hello there Mr. Wachowski. I have something that means so much to you and the Hedgehog." Robotnik spoke through the drone.

"Oh god, please Tom help me this wackjob has me somewhere I don't know." You cried out. "Please help me.." You began to sob.

Both Sonic and Tom gasped when they heard your voice.

"Shut up stupid girl..." He hissed. "But, such a pretty little sister you have. I might keep her to myself and even experiment on her real good." He said laughing.

Tom was scared for you but made a face when he said that. That sick bastard, he better not lay a finger on you but why did Robotnik have you! In the other hand Sonic felt horrible for assuming that you were with Robotnik or were working with him. He clenched his fist, angry. He smashed the drone without thinking.

Sonic was going to save you and make Robotnik pay.

Would you guys like a part two? :)

[tibbinswrites]

Prompt #26

It’s my birthday!!!

So I got you all a present. That’s how birthdays work, right? I wrote you this fic. Prompt #26 on my list because guess how old I am?!

Fair warning: Major Character Death. I made myself cry.

I’ve now done prompts for: #1, #2, #4 and #16, #9, #10, #20, #26, #33, #77, #78, #170 (part 1), (part 2), (part 3), #327 and #502 and I’m not accepting any more prompts at this time.

Also, check out the destiel anthology I’m in. We’re 119% funded and saving for hardback so if you want one, get one!

Prompt #26. Afterlife

Getting old sucked. Ever since Dean had found his first grey hair and noticed that the wrinkles around Sam’s eyes weren’t going away when he stopped smiling, Dean had realised that he might actually get to experience old age. It was a thoughts that settled uncomfortable behind his sternum, though he knew it wasn’t exactly bad. They’d defeated Chuck, after all, and only a couple of years after that, Dean had called it quits and retired from hunting… mostly. He’d help out if there was a case in their neck of the woods, Sam always called him first so he could call dibs or pass as he pleased. At least he had, until Sam himself had retired with Eileen and they’d passed the reigns on to the younger generation.

That was just fine by Dean. Sam and Eileen now lived only a couple of blocks away, the bunker a place none of them had been to in years, though sometimes they got visits from the younger hunters, wanting to gawk or advice or to hear some of the Winchesters’ greatest hits, which Dean was always happy to oblige and he and Sam had a tally going of which one of the brothers they’d come to see (Sam was winning, but barely). He liked seeing the way their eyes bugged out when Cas brought out a plate of sandwiches and dropped a kiss to Dean’s hair before settling next to him on the couch, his hands taking Dean’s left in his own so he could fiddle with the ring he’d put there nearly thirty years before.

Now, Cas was the worse part of this getting old deal, because Cas wasn’t. Or… he was, his grace had been irreparably damaged over the years, but slowly. Cas still looked like he was only barely approaching fifty, while Dean had come to realise that he was a shrivelled-up eighty-eight-year-old.

Despite Cas’ assurances that it made no difference to him, that he was still older than Dean by millennia anyway, that his soul was still as beautiful as it had been, Dean still sometimes found himself staring into the mirror in dismay, then looking over at his still-gorgeous husband and feeling even worse. Especially when Dean had had to convince Cas to pretend that he was a carer out in public, or his son, or something that would make more sense than him, a raisin of a human, being married to an angel (formerly of the Lord, now of humanity) who just wasn’t ageing at the same rate and both of them being happier than either had dared imagine for themselves.

Dean watched Cas from his chair while he puttered around outside. Before they’d even finished unpacking their meagre belongings after moving in, Cas had started working on the garden. There was a small beehive at the very back, and lots of decorative birdbaths and birdfeeders they had been gifted with over the years and the plants themselves were an explosion of colour. Dean couldn’t really make it out there on his own anymore. There were a few stone steps to get down into it from the house that he struggled with now and thing was practically a jungle, with roots and uneven ground that was pretty perilous for a man of his age. There was no lawn to speak of, the grass was always too long and there were more trees and plants than open spaces. It was beautiful to look at though, and sometimes in the summer Cas would carry him out to the bench (that was nowhere near the beehive) and they would sit together and watch the birds and insects flutter by, and despite being surrounded by suburbia, they were perfectly alone, a place of calm, like the lake near the bunker they’d gone to years ago.

He got nostalgic a lot, and bitter with it sometimes. And though he didn’t regret the way his life had turned out, not at all, he missed feeling like he had something, anything, to give back to Cas in return for loving him. He couldn’t offer to help around the house anymore. He was confined to his chair most of the time. Cas carried him to bed and helped him hobble to the bathroom and cooked for him and put up with his crotchety-ness when his knees were bothering him. He made sure Dean took all his pills on time and read to him when his eyes wouldn’t focus properly and sign to him when his ears were fuzzy and drove him over to visit Sam and Eileen twice a week. And he still looked at Dean in a way that made his heart melt, like he was beautiful, and just as capable and strong as he’d been at thirty, and not the pile of brittle bones that he had become.

Cas saw him watching through the window and smiled, as though seeing Dean sat where Cas had gently placed him a few hours ago was the best surprise he could have hoped for. Dean shook his head and smiled back. Even after all these years Cas was still a giant romantic dork. It was good to see him smile. He’d been kind of mopey for the past week, though wouldn’t answer when Dean asked him what was wrong.

He came back in soon after that, though he’d only been out for around fifteen minutes. He brought Dean a bowl of soup for lunch and sat with him with his own bowl, telling him how the hive was doing and which flowers had just begun to bud. Dean listened to it all, just letting Cas’ voice brush through him, as soft as his grace.

“Claire called this morning.” Cas informed him. “She and Kaia are planning a trip to Athens next month for their anniversary.”

“Well it’s lucky for some,” Dean said with a smile. “I’ll bet Alex and Patience are jealous.”

“Livid,” Cas agreed. “Claire was very pleased. She’s hoping they might run into ‘something cool’.” Cas’ fingers quoted the last two words. “So I daresay they’ll spend a few days looking for a hunt.”

“And how’s Donna?”

“As well as can be expected. Alex is staying with her for a little while, you know.”

“Yeah.”

Cas had driven them to the funeral a few months back. Jody had died peacefully, surrounded by her wife and her girls, but it was still hard on all of them. Especially Donna and Claire. Jody had been kick-ass even as a pensioner, getting into trouble with the local law enforcement when she decided to voice her complaints about their ‘sloppy new police tactics’. Dean had been sad to say goodbye.

“I think you should call Sam.” Cas said once they were done eating, though Dean hadn’t even managed half of the soup; he missed the days he could devour seven grilled cheeses in quick succession.

One hand still holding Dean’s, the other playing through his wispy, white hair. At least he hadn’t gone bald like his grandfather, though Sam had followed in Samuel’s eggheaded footsteps, which was a fact that Dean never tired of teasing him about.

“Why? We were over there the other day.”

“I know, but… It’s nice to check in. I’ll get you the phone.”

Bewildered, Dean stared as Cas unstuck himself from his side and went to pick up the cordless phone. He dialled and held the phone to his ear, turning his back to Dean and talking quietly so he couldn’t hear or even attempt to lip read what was being said. That was weird.

“Here.” Cas said, a few minutes later, handing Dean the phone before kissing him on the cheek and gathering up the trays from lunch. “You talk to Sam and I’ll clean up.”

“You’re being weird.” Dean told him, but dutifully held the phone to his ear anyway. “Hey Sammy.”

“Hey Dean.” Sam’s voice cracked a little over the words. “How are you feeling?”

“Old,” Dean replied. You?”

“Four years younger.” Sam said, and Dean could hear the smartass grin through the phone.

“Hello, Dean,” came Eileen’s voice.

“No!” Dean said firmly. “I’m not falling for that again. Sam, tell Eileen I say hi and that she’s been pulling the same joke for the past forty years.”

“And you fell for it for the past thirty-nine of them.”

There was a pause, probably while Sam signed something to his wife because he heard her laugh.

“What did Cas wanna talk to you about anyway?” Dean asked. “And why doesn’t he know by now that he can just call you without pretending that I need to talk to you.”

“He’s just paying back the favour.” Sam said, a little too quickly. “It used to be that I was the one playing messenger between the two of you.”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever. Why do I feel like you’re planning a surprise birthday party or something?”

“That’s exactly it. We forgot to do that in January. You know what my memory’s like now.”

“It’s from all those concussions you got.” Dean said, falling easily back into their old banter. Cas was right, talking with Sam was just what he needed. Sure, they still saw each other a lot, but over the phone he could almost kid himself that they weren’t as old as they looked, and even if they were… then it wasn’t that bad. Because he and Sam had made it through. Against all odds, through Hell and Heaven and Purgatory, they’d stared down monsters, ghosts, angels, demons and God and they’d beaten them all. They were the Winchesters and they’d survived.

Sure, this old age crap sucked, but every day he got to wake up next to the person he loved, knowing that his brother was doing the same. He got to hear stories from the hunters who came to visit, about new weapons they’d developed, new hunters they’d recruited, new lore they’d discovered. He got to hear how the fight was continuing without them and it was kinda nice to not be needed any more. He knew that he’d done his part, given all he had, and still ended up with a life worth bragging about. He didn’t worry about nightmares anymore, didn’t wake up drowning in guilt over things that were long over and done with. He’d made peace with his mistakes years ago, and he’d also learned to appreciate his victories.

His conversation with Sam lasted longer than he’d expected. They ended up, as most of their conversations did, reminiscing on old times. Mostly because there was so little present news happening. The world was quiet, for which they were both grateful, and they had more than earned the right to allow it to pass them by.

But this conversation felt different to the one they’d shared just the other day. Heavier almost. Sure, they laughed and poked fun at each other, just like they always had, even brothers in their eighties were still brothers after all, but Sam told him a few things that he was sure had never come up before, things like how grateful Sam was that Dean had raised him like he had, how he’d known all along the things he’d sacrificed so that he could have as normal a childhood as possible, even growing up as a hunter. He confessed how pleased he’d been to see him at Stanford, even knowing that it meant trouble, and other little moments like it. After hunts when Dean had been hurt, how terrified Sam had been every time. And when Sam got hurt, how much it had helped knowing that Dean was the one patching him up. He told a dozen different stories that emphasised how brave Sam thought he was, how kind, how smart, and he wouldn’t let Dean scoff off those compliments like he usually did.

Sam’s openness inspired his own and he found himself confessing things in kind. It felt good, cleansing, like a too-hot bath, and despite how stilted and slightly uncomfortable the entire conversation was, he was glad Cas had suggested the call.

Eventually, they both seemed to run out of things to say.

“Well, I should probably go,” Dean said. “But we’ll come visit on Tuesday like usual, kay?”

To his surprise, Sam sniffed, and it sounded like he was about to cry. “Yeah, okay,” he said. “Love you, jerk.”

“You too, bitch.”

He ended the call and glanced up at Cas, who had returned about an hour ago with a book, though instead of reading it, he was watching Dean.

Dean frowned at him, thinking about how weird Cas had been acting, how today he’d barely left him alone, how he’d caught him up on all the latest family news and made him call Sam. He remembered something Cas had told him years ago, when they’d first begun to let themselves truly love each other, how angels could sense when someone was dying.

“Today’s the day, isn’t it?” He asked.

Cas looked stricken for a moment, then he put the book aside and came back to sit at Dean’s side, curling around him like the world’s most careful question mark. “Yes.”

Dean reached out to grasp his hand. “Thank you. For making me talk to Sam.”

Cas just squeezed his frail fingers.

“Maybe I should’ve cut back on the burgers after all.”

“You don’t mean that.”

“No, I don’t,” Dean conceded. “But this has been nice though. Our life. Our, post-hunting life.”

“Our together life,” Cas said, his breath soft against Dean’s neck. “Yes, it has.”

“I love you.”

“And it still takes a deathbed for you to say it,” Cas joked, as though Dean hadn’t made a point to say it at least once a day since they’d been married. “I love you too.”

“So, what happens… after?” He had to ask, despite knowing, he had to ask. Because he’d known this day was coming in a far-off kind of sense, and he’d died more often than he cared to count, but knowing that this was it, this would be his final trip over to the other side, well… he was a little apprehensive.

“I’ll find you.” Cas promised. “I’ll need you to wait for me a little while. I have to make the arrangements here and—”

“And be there for Sam.”

“Of course.” Cas said easily. “But as soon as I can, perhaps a week or two, I’ll find you; and we’ll keep… not-living a together afterlife.”

“I’ll like that.” Dean said, just as a sharp pain prodded at his chest.

“I’m sure we’ll have plenty of visitors too,” Cas said. “Jack will make sure we have plenty of channels between Heavens. The last we spoke he said he was excited to see you again.”

“Be nice to see him too.” Dean said, though he was finding it hard to breathe; Cas stroked his hair and the touch was nice. “And the rest.”

The last thing he felt on Earth was Cas’ lips brushing his skin, and Dean Winchester drifted off, content in his angel’s arms; knowing that this was right, that he was ready, and that when he woke up back in his thirty-year-old body in whatever Heaven he had earned, he was gonna give Cas a hell of a welcome when he joined him.

[basedkikuenjoyer]

Snow Day, Post Kikus

♫ "If the scattered stories have connections somehow, the threads of time will be rewoven." ♫

A lucky, lucky snow day indeed. I do work a job where we get those off which is nice because I fell on the ice yesterday. Fortunately a long history of theatre and stage combat means I know how to fall. Means I could get around to this, even if it means breaking Shyarly letting me transition out. I hope y'all like tomorrow's post. Today though, we are anchored by a lovely anime Kiku face because it's been a minute. Last chance to recap & refocus as we come out of the holiday slowdown for mainline One Piece chapters. We should have a fun back half of Academy's latest soon too. Still very cool to me I can talk about Kiku the same way for both.

That quote up top, if you're familiar with One Piece you've probably been hearing the Japanese line it's a translation of. It's from the new Egghead opening. Given how we've been looking at this arc so far...feels a little like a promise y'know?

We still really just went and did that with this Kuma flashback didn't we? Ginny at God Valley opens it by showing off a sharp lady preemptively setting up a smokescreen through the snails then Kuma wraps it up through an alternate POV flashback. That was the idea for so long before we got there; Kiku's weird ending and role in Wano is ripe for that style of flashback and you could do it with Egghead via the Grand Fleet. Miss Unassuming who doesn't want a fuss about her quietly slipped away.

It's still that Rashomon angle to me, seems like the simple idea showing all these sidestories might be baiting you to ask who threads the needle was already gaining traction before the opening nudges at it. Right now you have Vivi and Bonney. Both showing something people paid attention to before their stories end on a note that kinda makes them feel more like Law/Kid. We're moving on, you have other things to do behind the main story getting into the final phase. How we now have enough known unknowns to thread another one of these cutaways through Stussy, Marco, and Drake giving his Chekov's Report to SWORD...Kiku's just grown as someone solid to do that through what's on the table in front of us. Still plays pretty nice with the initial Kishotenketsu outline too, Rashomon fits that perfectly by design. The only problem with the initial sketch is it assumed Egghead would be shorter like most of us did.

Especially with how Vegapunk punted on the question of what happened last night in the lab. That was clever. That's still hanging. Don't forget Robonosuke came online. It'd be cute as hell if Luffy was right about only needing to know his name and someone who knew Toki well could believably know that detail without stepping on Robin's general role too much. I didn't get this nice little exchange last time to show the real meat of skipping that. But isn't it really close to say...what you could draw out of that hypothetical time to talk between Kiku & Marco? Funny thing is, you're really just a twist of fate away from Kin'emon doing the same right away in Act 1.

Kin & Kanjuro are out for this little scene tail end of Dressrosa. They're the ones who hear the rumor about Rebecca's parentage and sorta spur the last leg of the Straw Hat story into motion from there. So they don't see this quiet side story. It's kind of interesting how the Samurai are kept away from knowing too much about Luffy's story with the Whitebeard Pirates because of Izo. Neko is probably worldly enough to just know it offhand and we already have that idea he was playing a little coy saying he was seeking out Marco. That's all on top of Kiku & Izo already being this parallel reunion turned tragic.

It's still too weird to leave all that hanging tacked onto someone who already pulls a perfect little thematic bookend about Wano's deeper darkness then constantly have Egghead play with the same ideas. If these scattered stories could be connected somehow, time would be rewoven. The time part is easy. Past to future arcs and the element of Toki as this adjacent unraveled enigma. Been thinking about the Grand Fleet too...does it just have to be serving as the cavalry at Egghead? Don't get me wrong, that's spectacle enough but don't forget we've woven their captains into these sidestories already.

One thing I wonder about more and more is how them and like, potential with Robonosuke don't even need to be mutually exclusive. How much are they needed on Egghead? How much could they, under smart guidance, tip the scales on these side stories? Ginny wasn't a sudden precedent, the reveal just like we suggested before was that she was setting things up the whole time. Even if you wanted reinforcements Orlumbus has the bulk of your raw numbers. But like...you could spin something grander.

What if the Fleet intervened everywhere? Circle back to Kid's story, he does get fished out because shortly after Barto showed up to make a formal apology. Law's/Koby's retreat ends up being covered by someone like Cavendish and Ideo. Sai or Leo serve as a go-between to relay a high-stakes negotiation to figure out Vivi's safe without exposing her. That's a cool idea too. And would work well with the idea Egghead's main story is a lateral move. Luffy almost went to either Blackbeard or Shanks but a game of rock-paper-scissors had him stumble into a story we've pointed out is irrelevant to the Straw Hats and their own interests. There's a lot of cool ways to spin that, but going into a new year it still feels like the best anchor to the broader story lines up with what was left unfinished on Wano.

And if nothing else, we'll always have Academy.

[sweatersarecomfyy]

Fancy Brain (Spencer Reid x Reader)

Summary: Reader likes Spencer but doesn’t want to tell him in fear of ruining their friendship. It’s super cute and fluffly, no warnings. Ya. 

My first Spencer fic, I love him so much.

He was in the conference room still trying to figure out something from the case. He was sitting on the floor surrounded by papers and books, but I could tell he was taking a break, sipping some coffee as he looked out the window momentarily. It was beautiful to watch him work.

I walked in and sat down at one of the chairs, he turned and gave me that goofy grin before turning back to his coffee. I did some more research as he tried to line up some sort of code that the unsub had left us. Often, I would just look over at him with his furrowed brow, and his fingers scanning the pages of book after book. I wasn’t getting much work done due to being distracted by him.

“It must be hard to be you.” I blurted out.

“Hmm?” He turned slightly.

I felt my face getting hot “I-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to say that.”

He sat at one of the chairs and turned toward me. He didn’t look offended. “What do you mean?”

I was really embarrassed. “I just. I don’t know. Your brain works in a way that most people can’t even comprehend, and because of that you don’t quite understand how other people work. I mean, you do in the technical sense, but you know…” I took a deep breath “And you probably got made fun of a lot…I’m sorry. I don’t really have a filter.”

He laughed slightly. “I guess it was hard to be this way, but I’ve pretty much gotten used to it. Luckily, I don’t really notice when people make fun of me. I have good friends, and I wouldn’t change anything.” He smiled and nodded.

I smiled back.

“Is it hard being new?” He asked. “I think you might be projecting your worries.”

I nodded. “I mean, everyone’s great, but they all have so much more experience and years, and I feel, I dunno, different, weird.”

“How about we be different and weird together?” He asked kindly. “Because I’m definitely both of those things.”

My heart warmed at the kind gesture. “That would be great.”

He turned back to the board “How much experience do you have with decoding?”

 *****

“Yes, and so the introduction of Christmas trees, wreaths, and other things we think of as traditional Christmas decorations are actually pagan in origin, introduced when the Christians were trying to get more people to convert.” He rattled off.

I nodded. “Why were the Christians so set on converting so many people? I mean I get that they really believed it but as far as I know their God didn’t teach violence as a form of proselyting.”

“Actually…”

His mind was such a brilliant place, every time I talked to him I learned more and found myself trying to look up information that I didn’t know so that I could have these conversations with him. I found that if I started talking about facts from the myths and legends I specialized in he would immediately supplement it with more. If I kept asking him questions he would keep answering. I was hooked. Other people seemed annoyed when he babbled some random facts and they would roll their eyes even more when I continued to have a conversation off of that topic.

“Two nerds in a pod.” That’s what Garcia said whenever she saw us talking like that, like she wasn’t a nerd at all.

“I would define myself as more of an egghead.” I would reply to her.

Spencer would always laugh at that. He told me that the term originated in 1952 with some presidential candidate I could never remember the name of.

“Thank you.”

I snapped out of my reverie. “For what?”

“For always listening to me.”

I furrowed my brow “Of course.”

“I say that because you actually listen, and then reply. People usually don’t do that to me.”

“Oh. Well you are the most fascinating person I’ve ever met. I could listen to you for hours.” I smiled.

I saw his cheeks redden a little. “You have.”

We both chuckled.

*****

I don’t quite know if my feelings for this man started the day I saw him, or later on, if they came all at once, or if they built up over time, all I knew is that one day I realized I was fully head over heels in love with my best friend and coworker Spencer Reid.

Unfortunately, this meant that I lost all my chill whenever I was around him. Sometimes he would walk into a room and I would walk straight out so that he wouldn’t see how flustered I got. Instead of making meaningful glances at each other whenever someone made a significant factual or grammatical error I would stare straight ahead. I even avoided the coffee shop where we both always ended up getting our morning meal and walking to work together. One day he seemed to be around me so much that I went to hide in a broom closet during lunch. I really didn’t want him to know. I was younger than him, definitely not as smart, and nothing that he deserved looks-wise, and he was smart enough to figure out my feelings.

So I just avoided him.

Being the genius he is, he still found me, in the broom closet, eating my peanut butter and jelly sandwich like some sort of outcast in high school.

“What are you doing in here?” He peeked through the door.

I felt my eyes widening. “Um, eating?”

He looked around. “Well can I eat in here with you? I feel like we haven’t talked in a while.”

“I actually, have to leave soon, I need to run an errand…” I stopped when I saw the hurt look on his face.

There was a pause.

“Why have you been avoiding me?” He looked at the ground, the door clicking closed behind him.

“I haven’t.”

“Yes you have, don’t deny it.” He sat down opposite me. “We’re friends. I want to know if something’s wrong. If I’ve done something wrong.”

My heart seized and I almost cried. “No Spencer, you’ve done nothing wrong.” I covered his hand in mine, realized what I was doing and folded my arms back up. There was so much more I wanted to say but it started coming out as tears instead. “I’m sorry. I’m such a wimp.” I wiped my eyes and managed a weak laugh.

“I don’t think you’re a wimp.” He pulled a tissue box from the supply shelf and handed me a tissue. “I just want to help. What’s wrong?”

I looked at his sincere brown eyes, he was leaning toward me and he set a hand on my shoulder. I needed to be honest with him.

“Ok. I need to tell you something.”

He nodded, looking slightly concerned.

“Please don’t think any less of me, and please still be my friend afterwards, I can get over it.”

He now just looked confused. “Get over what?”

I covered my face and gave a rather unattractive sniffle. “I have a huge crush on you, but it’s ok, because we can still be friends, right? I can get over it. I know I’m weird, and young, and you probably don’t have interest in me, I’m sorry. I’m sorry.” I took a breath. “I’ll just go.”

I tried to get up, but he took my hand and pulled me back down. “That’s why you’ve been avoiding me?”

I nodded, not daring to look him in the face. “I’m sorry.”

“Stop apologizing, you have nothing to apologize for.”

“Spence, you’re my best friend, and I didn’t want to jeopardize that, and I’m really sorry.”

He didn’t say anything so I glanced up at him only to see him staring at me.

“What?” I wiped my eyes. My heart beat faster afraid of what he was going to say next.

Before I knew what was happening his lips were on mine and his arms were wrapped around me, pulling me closer. I was shocked for a second before I relaxed into him and put my arms around his shoulders. My brain still wasn’t processing what was happening when it was all over and I was looking at him again.

“What?” I said again, this time slightly out of breath.

He smiled. “Um, I probably should have given you some warning.” His arms were still around me.

I just blinked.

“I hope you don’t mind not being friends anymore, I was thinking we could be something more.”

The smooth bugger with his big fancy brain. My brain still hadn’t caught up. “That was exceptionally smooth Spencer.” Was all I could get out.

He chuckled. “So?”

I smiled finally, and cupped his face with my hand. “Let’s be weird together?”

“That would be great.”

“Spencer?”

“Yes?”

My words failed me as I looked into the face of the man that I love. There were still so many things I wanted to say. Instead, I pulled him into a hug.

“Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere.” He said. “You’re stuck with me for a long time.”

And that was all I needed to hear.

[nickmuch]

c.z.k. - high school (part 3)

PART 1 / PART 2

Note: Honestly, I have nothing to do at work atm, so I might update this daily. Can’t wait for Part 4! Bc I have finally some more Zion action planned.

Also: It might be prom season there, but you didn’t hear it from me. My favorite part to write was probably the one that took place after prom.

Aaand: mobile tumblr seems to ignore all the paragraphing I put into the text to indicate the end of a scene???? So it’s probably easier to read on the desktop version.

A week had passed since my outburst. If you thought that everything magically turned upside down and we lived a happy life riding into the sunset on our white horse, then you thought wrong. Absolutely nothing happened. I returned back to class that day, not even flinching from his words. And he came back a couple minutes later, both of us acting as if we didn’t just kiss. He went back to her and I went back to feeling like shit. The usual story.

I acted like it didn’t faze me when he approached my locker at the end of the school day. “So …” he began. “You and Edwin?”. His voice sounded nervous when he asked me. Scrunching up my face, I fully turned towards him. “Me and Edwin what?”. Sighing, he grabbed my arm making me look him dead in the eyes. “You guys together now? You both seem oddly close these days”. Wow, I couldn’t believe the words that left his mouth. “Congrats! You have officially lost your mind, Caleb” I started picking up my pace. The front door wasn’t too far from here, so I hoped he would just let it go and let me drive home in peace. I hoped for nothing because clearly, he and his long legs caught up to me rather quickly, opening the door to my passenger seat before sitting down. “Look, I’m sorry for everything. But honestly, I just wanna put this all behind us. I miss my friends and I feel like I can’t hang out with the group while you’re still mad at me” “I’m not mad at you, in fact I give zero shits about you. But if you have something to talk about with the boys, then do so. I’m not keeping you from seeing them. They were your friends first, so you have every right to chill with them. I just don’t wanna be included, s’all”. A tap on the window made us look up. There she stood, tight smile on her face and eyes cold like ice. “Aw shit” he said, hurriedly opening the door to get out and explain why in the name of God he was sitting in his Ex’s car talking. Since I seriously didn’t need to hear their arguing – which was bound to happen any second now – I quickly drove off.

“Prom is right around the corner. What do you mean you’re not going?! Yes, you are! Don’t leave me alone with these fools!”. Edwin was close to having a breakdown. All because I didn’t plan on going to prom. There was no reason to go, really. I had no date, it was way too cold In New York to walk around in a dress the whole evening, and I wasn’t in the mood anyways. “Eddie, I love you, but please don’t make me go. I would only destroy the fun” I begged, thinking that would change his mind. Wrong! Because Edwin was – well – Edwin. My excuses were exactly that: just excuses. And he knew. “Okay bebecita, I knooooow you don’t feel like going”. He was convinced that easily? Wow, okay. “But!”. Ah there it was. “We will have fun. Trust me! When have I ever lied to you?”. I mean, he was right. Whenever he said something was going to be fun, it actually turned out to be. “Fine, we’ll go! But make sure that Zion leaves me alone. He thinks we’re dating and I don’t feel like dealing with his headassery again”. Edwin’s eyes nearly fell out of his face. “What?! Oh my god, is he serious?”. A hearty laugh filled up the whole living room. “Mijo, not so loud!” his mom shouted from the kitchen, making him quit immediately. “Anyways” he plopped down next to me on the couch. “No offense, but even if you’d be the last girl in the world and we had to reproduce in order to save the human civilization, I still wouldn’t touch you” Edwin finished. “No offense taken. You’re not my type anyway” I casually said while not breaking my eyes off of the tv screen. Gasp! “I- what? I meant because you’re my twin sister! Not because of your looks!” he cried. “Uhm … oh y-yeah, that’s what I meant too …?”. No way I could save my ass out of this. He looked hurt for a second but didn’t seem to dwell on it when he used my lap as a pillow to watch the show. “Don’t be fooled, you still suck ass”.

The night of the prom, Edwin had officially turned into a bridezilla. Minus the bride, of course. His steps could be heard from everywhere in the house, like a ticking clock you couldn’t dismiss. It was driving me insane. It was driving us all insane. “Edwin, you need to calm down” I tried. “There’s no way! No. Way.” he frantically walked from one room to the other. “My clothes need to be ironed, you still aren’t in your dress- “. “It’s 2 p.m.!” my voice sounded squeakier than expected. “- … your hair’s a mess, face not beat, my hair is acting up, and the damn rental car is running late” he finished with one last breath before collapsing on my bed. “We won’t be on time. Just cancel on the boys for me, the stress isn’t good for the baby”. “What baby?!”. “Me. I’m baby”. I couldn’t believe my ears. This boy lost his mind. Narrowing my eyes at him, he challenged me back to a stare-down. “Listen here, egghead” An offended gasp left his lips. “You’ve been talking about this night for weeks. There’s no backing out now. Move your ass up and get your to-do-list, so I can help you with everything. We still have four hours left before the boys are supposed to be here. So, let’s start!”.

The white Range Rover came to a halt right in front of the school building. Loud music could be heard already, some new rap song playing in the background. “This is gonna be so lit!” Edwin bounced on his seat excitedly before jumping out and dragging the rest of us with him into the gym. The motto for this year’s prom was “neon festival”.The wall decoration was painted in a mix of fluorescent colors, which reflected every time the lights hit them. Bright yellow stars adorned the ceiling, some white smoke even coming out of a smoke machine. Everything was arranged so nicely, I couldn’t help but admire the great effort of the students who probably worked hard for this to come true. Now I understood why Edwin wanted to go so badly. Back home, our prom nights were pretty basic. No one could be bothered to put so much effort into an event, just for it to be over on the same night.

“Here, for you” Nick handed me a red solo cup, which was filled with some pink drink, accompanied by a cocktail umbrella. “Thank you” I said, turning my gaze towards the shining stars again. “I’m so sorry about what I’m gonna say next” he looked slightly uneasy, so I tried to calm him down by laying my hand on his shoulder. “Z and Asya will be joining our table. I mean, only if it’s alright with you”. As if on cue, my eyes wandered over to where I last saw the boys, seeing that – in fact – they were surrounded by the couple. All of them looked so happy, laughing and joking with each other. No matter what I felt towards Caleb, I had to set my pride aside and act nice from now on. The boys were longing to hang out with their friend again and I didn’t want to be the reason for a strain in their friendship.

“It’s alright with me” I replied. His hand cautiously wrapped around my hips, like he was scared of making me uncomfortable. “Lead the way, Mara”. He grinned at me. “Say no more, Honoret”. I rolled my eyes at the name. He knew I wasn’t really a Honoret, and yet everyone just called me that, totally ignoring all my attempts at correcting them.

Luckily, I got the seat between Edwin and Brandon. I didn’t know how to greet Zion and his girlfriend. She was too busy typing away on her phone to notice my arrival, anyways. So, I just gave him a short wave and a shy smile. “Looking nice” he said, motioning to my baby blue velvet bodycon dress. His girl was so busy, she didn’t even notice him complimenting another female. Either that, or she didn’t care. “Thanks Caleb, you too”. Coincidentally, he wore a dark grey suit with a baby blue pocket square. To not give awkward silence any room, Austin suggested to me to dance. Gladly taking his offer, we made our way to the dance floor. Soon enough, Edwin and Nick joined us, their dance moves putting me and him to shame. “You guys enjoying yourselves?” Brandon shouted over the music. I pulled him closer by his forearm to join us. “Very”. My grin however didn’t last. When I looked back to our table, I saw Zion all by himself. He looked bored, occasionally scrolling through his phone. “I’ll be right back” I told no one in particular before making my way over to the lone boy.

“Why so lonely, Kuwonu?” I nudged his arm. With a weak smile on his plump lips, he answered “Asya is preoccupied with her group of friends. I don’t really vibe with ‘em”. Nodding understandingly, I offered him to accompany me back to the others. “As long as you don’t hit the folks, we’re good” I playfully teased him. “Ha ha, very funny” Caleb sarcastically remarked. It was nice to talk to him without an attitude or tension building up. Maybe I overreacted a little bit in the last weeks. Having him around felt good, if you ignored the butterflies that erupted deep down in my stomach every time he looked at me or smiled his goofy grin. But we had our chance and it didn’t work out, that’s why I had to get over it. Better to have him as a friend than anything else. Right now, though, was about having fun and enjoying the company of good friends in a night that seemed to be endless.

The thing is, everything has an end. And so, I found myself in the booth of an old diner. The fake leather of the seats was peeling off and little bolts of cloth got stuck to our clothes. One of my legs was pressed against the window side, my other leg was touching Brandon’s involuntarily. Edwin thought a corner booth would totally suffice for all seven of us. Well, he thought wrong because now we were all huddled up, trying to get as comfortable as humanly possible with not much space between us left. Asya decided to not tag along, saying she was too tired from dancing with her friends all night.

“I hope they hurry up with our order, I’m starving!” Ansley sighed dramatically. Turns out, Austin was talking to her for weeks now, he just couldn’t build up the courage to ask her out yet. So, Edwin being Edwin, persuaded her to join our trip for a midnight-snack, claiming that “this pizza is going to be the best you’ve ever had!”. Judging from the interior design and the slack expression we were getting from the waiter, I highly doubted he was right. But then again, never underestimate Edwin.

“Okay, you were right. This is the best pizza I’ve ever had. Kudos to you, Ed” Ansley munched happily on her slice. Suspiciously examining the pieces in the center of the table, I couldn’t really put too much trust into her words. For some odd reason, the pizza had more grease on it than my face in the morning before washing it. “Just try it, she isn’t lying” Zion slid me a slice over. “If I die, tell Mama, Papa and the babies that I love ‘em” I told Ed before taking a bite. This was actually pretty good. Maybe not the best I’ve had, but it came close. “What makes this the best pizza in all of New York, though? It doesn’t taste that special”. The boys smirked knowingly, all eyes looking down trying to avoid my gaze. “It’s not necessarily the taste but rather the memories this place holds, you know? Back when we were younger, we’d spend our evenings after school here since our parents were working and we had no one to watch us in the meantime” Brandon nodded along to Edwin’s words, clearly remembering it all as if it had happened yesterday. “Can you imagine the mess we’d make?! Five little boys, full of energy rushing in to buy themselves some junk food, not a single care in the world” he paused for a moment, giving the others a short smile. The moment was filled with a melancholic retrospective feeling. “We literally grew up in this place. T’was safer to play and wait for our parents in here than at home or on the streets. I guess that’s what makes this so special to us” he shrugged. Sensing that he had finished the story, I nodded slowly, comprehending everything he just told me. “I like it here. Has charm to it”. Grinning widely, I took another bite to further prove my point.

People think of New York as this cool and hip city, with expensive luxurious apartments and such, but they seem to forget that not everyone is fortunate enough to live that life. Some of us have to learn from an early age that this world is full of bad people. Not everyone is going to wish you the best or give a helping hand. “We kinda are like OMB if you really think about it. Sure, no one is forcing us to join a gang or sum, but we do live a similar life” Zion threw in. “Actually, the weedhead might be onto something” B exclaimed. “You moving here out of nowhere” he said, pointing towards me. “Ed having to give up his room for you. A weird crackhead as a friend like Jamal” Now it was Edwin’s turn to be pointed at. “Hey! That’s rude! Besides, don’t do my bro Jamal like dat. He’s a great friend, always got their backs and shit” Ed tried to argue. “You’re a great friend, too. And an even better twin brother” I genuinely told him. A chorus of “Awwee”’s followed the round. “Now this is how you talk to friends! Take notes, ladies”. When he said ladies, he definitely wasn’t referring to me or Ansley.

The night itself turned out being amazing and I was glad that Edwin had convinced me to go to prom. We were talking about everything and nothing, really. Moments turned into minutes. Minutes turned into hours, and soon it was already time to leave. Ansley had to be home soon, so Austin took it upon himself to make sure she would arrive there safely. Edwin was craving donuts from the corner shop across the street, but since he couldn’t be trusted on his own, Brandon decided to follow him. “Is B really the right fit to watch him not do any shenanigans?” Nick asked warily. “… honestly, talking from experience, I should probably go with ‘em before their sugar high kicks in”. With that, I was left alone with Zion in the booth of a run-down diner in the middle of New York. Despite being in one of the biggest cities, the world suddenly felt so small around me.

“So …” Zion said, looking around the place. “So …” I mimicked. Shaking his head, he just laughed. “This is low key awkward, not gonna lie”. It was true. In a group we no longer had trouble talking, however when alone it was a whole another story.

“I’m sorry”.

“You say sorry way too much”.

“Maybe. But this time I wanna apologize for attacking you with that kiss last week”.

“It’s all forgotten”.

His mouth opened and closed, scared to say something but I knew there still was something he wanted to get off his chest.

The bell above the door frame signaled the arrival of someone. “Guess what I gotchu guys?!” Edwin trotted over, taking a seat on the table, so that he had both me and Z on each of his sides. A small brown paper bag rested on his lap. With one swift movement, he pulled out some twizzlers, and shoved them in our hands. “And we also bought you make up wipes!” happily Brandon said in a sing-song voice. Fishing out the pack, he handed them over to me. “I love you guys!”. Nick walked in last. “Yo, I’m slowly getting tired. Can we drive home now?” sleepily he rubbed his eyes, already pulling on Zion’s sleeve. Reluctantly, Edwin followed behind, even though all he wanted was to eat his candy. His sugar high was still going in full force. Therefore, he didn’t feel an ounce of sleep.

“Why the fuck is he so bouncy?!”Austin asked. We had called him earlier to ask for his location, so that we could pick him up and drive home as well. He climbed up the Jeep, sitting next to an energetic Ed. “Twizzlers?” he offered to his friend. “No, thanks. Also, please stop smiling so creepily, you’re scaring me”. This was going to be a long drive.

Note: Part 4 will have more Zion moments. The plan is to have only one or two settings, so hopefully it’ll work out as planned.

I’d love to get some feedback, good or bad doesn’t matter!! What direction would you want this to go? How would you like this to end? Let me know!

Cami

[maximumsnow]

Conversations

Oc conversation I vividly saw after seeing that one post about the “nun” and the jerk who stole her furniture.

--

"Did I ever tell you the story of when I dressed up as a priest and nearly died?" The way Reeve asked that question showed he clearly knew his companion wouldn’t resist asking for more details. "... Okay, now I'm curious." "Alright! So!" Reeve nearly slammed his hands on the table in his clear excitement to tell this tale. "This all starts with one of my college buddies-" "The more you talk about these people, the more I wonder how you survived and graduated." "This isn't even one of the bad ones!" He said with a laugh. He waved his hand to move on and said,  "As I was saying, she was the sweetest girl on campus, and was definitely the mom friend. Considering our trainwreck of relationships going around, she had the most normal dating life of the lot of us. Until California Jackass happened." "Is that a name or an event?" "Name. No one remembers or chooses to use his real name anymore." "So was he from California or-" "Oh I'll get there, just hold on.” He smirked before continuing. “So anyway. She starts dating Jackass, and we generally trust her instincts, so no one thought to really question the guy. He put on a nice face around us, and he was a real smooth talker from what my friend said. He had her wrapped around his finger really quick, and she had started moving in with him." He paused to sigh. "Now, even we thought things were moving a bit fast, but she was an adult making her own choices." "And then?"

“And then he goes and disappears with all of their stuff in the middle of summer.” “What? HOW?” “We had all gone on a beach trip for a week, and he said his job couldn’t let him go. So we all left thinking he would be there when we got back. Annnnd he wasn’t. Now, if it had just been his stuff and the stuff they collectively owned, it would have just been a dick move. A horrible one, but still… understandable. But no, he took her stuff too.”

“I can see the Jackass part of the name is appropriate. Now, what does California have to do with it?”

“So after some digging, a few jobs and such, we hired a PI to go hunt Jackass down. After a few weeks,  and we’re almost back to the start of the school year at this point, he finds Jackass has apparently set up in a shoddy apartment if California. We don’t know if he still has her stuff or not, but he did pawn off a few things that PI man managed to arm twist to get. Mostly jewelry, but she was glad to get at least that much back.”

“… I’m still waiting for the priest outfit and how you almost died because of this.”

“Well, wait a little longer, there’s a build up to that. So we decide, in the last two weeks of our vacation, that we’re going on a little trip across the country. There’s about five of us, and Rocket Science has a van that can fit us comfortably, and us and Anna’s stuff a little uncomfortably. The trip there was mostly spent blitzing across the country, and I can’t tell you more in case there isn’t a statute of limitations on speeding and reckless driving.”

“Promising.”

“We get there, and while we know the complex he’s in, we don’t actually know which apartment. So we do the most logical thing and disguise me, someone he only ever saw hunched over a computer, and Rocket Science, whom he had never met, as those door to door religious flyer people.”

“I thought you were agnostic? And that Rocket Science was an athiest.” “Oh we were, but I Bsed my way through a cateschism class and no one was ever the wiser. We got the costumes from a local priest who was willing to look the other way while we borrowed the clothes.” “I can’t imagine what story you told to swing that.”

“The truth. He was very understanding. Back to the story, we ended up knocking on half that complex’s doors before we found him, and it was only because I stepped on Rocket Science’s foot that he didn’t just take out California Jackass right then. I go on with my spiel and ask to be invited in so we could talk about… I forgot what I said. Either way, it didn’t work, which, we honestly kinda expected. But the point was, we finally had his location.”

He paused as he looked contemplatively at his drink. “At this point, Anna went to the police there and tried to go the legal route to deal with this, but of course they didn’t want to get involved with ‘Domestic matters’ so we were kinda on our own. Anna took one of the other guys with her to confront her ex, and Jackass won’t even answer the door once he sees her through the fisheye.”

“So how did you finally get her stuff back?”

“Well,” Reeve drawled, “This is where that near death comes in.”

“What did you do?”

“I may have uh, stumbled around in my priest get up, and found the door open. I only went in because that was unusual! I swear!”

The flat glare from his companion made Reeve laugh. “That’s all you’re getting out of me from there.” Recomposing himself, he continued, “I knew what she was looking for, so I just. Handed it to her through the door, and she arranged the others to put it in the van. After a few trips, we had everything, and I was on my own, properly relocking the door when he came home. And I think he recognized me from Massachusetts because he started screaming at me and threw me down a flight of stairs.”

“Dear lord.”

“That’s what I said, and the neighbors called the cops real quick. Needless to say, he didn’t look so good trying to beat up a random priest and accusing me of stealing his stuff.”

“They didn’t know you weren’t an actual priest?”

“Yeeeaaah, they never even asked, for some reason. So I never corrected them. I didn’t want to press charges because we wanted to get out as soon as possible, and Jackass was going to have to live knowing he got one upped in terms of screwing over. By a bunch of eggheads, nonetheless.”

“Goddamn Reeve, I want to call bullshit on that one.”

“I have pictures of the trip, and with me and Rocket Science in our priestly garb.”

“Oh my God.”

“That’s what I said.”

[allisonswrittenwords]

“Math is for eggheads!”

Yeah, and it doesn’t have any practical applications once you’re out of school, right?  It’s just like science – once you’re not learning about it, you don’t really need it.

Now, I admit, I never liked Math (or Science).  I did well with both subjects until 8th grade, but struggled once I got to high school.  Where I was a solid A/B student in English/Literature and History, I was more along the lines of a B/C+/C student in Math and Science.  Don’t get me wrong, I find concepts of both subjects interesting as an adult, but when I was in school, I was frustrated constantly.  I loved how equations looked and loved working on solving them.  That was usually where I did ok.  Word problems, however, are the worst.  My high school required three years of math, with the maximum requirement being Algebra 2.  You just hoped you could start Algebra 1 in ninth grade so you could finish the math requirement, as mandated by the state of New Jersey, during junior year.  No Pre-Calculus or Calculus for me – I was done with Math!

As for Science, again, love the concept of science, loved 3-2-1 Contact as a kid, but it frustrated me.  I did well in ninth grade science – it was a introduction to Biology and Chemistry (I think it was called Bio/Chem Tech), but it was so much fun, and I was a solid A/B student.  We had a great teacher and once in a while, we got to watch Bill Nye The Science Guy when it was relevant.  However, once I got to Biology in 10th grade (and the dreaded Chemistry in 11th grade), I struggled.  I never got anything above a C in Chemistry.  I loved my teacher, and he seemed to understand that not everyone was good at the subject, but he would work with the ones who struggled the most.  I was grateful for him, but Chemistry was the final required Science class in New Jersey, so yeah, I didn’t move on to Physics.

11th grade (1999-2000). And yes, my hair really was that long!

During college, I had to take (for non-major requirements) two Math classes.  In my case, it wound up being three, as my SATs put me in a workshop/basic skills Math class for my first semester.  I actually liked that class, it was like Pre-Algebra, but not taught by the former nun I had in eighth grade.  We also met regularly one-on-one with the professor, and she was a nice, very approachable person.  She knew why we were there, and was great with us.  And the next class I took, which was the first required class everyone at college had to take (can’t remember the name of it), was actually fun.  By the time I got to the Algebra 1-level class I *chose* to take (there were other classes, this one sounded interesting to me), I loved Math.  Where I struggled in high school, I excelled in college.  It was 1000-level Math, but still, I loved it, and I was actually good at it!

College graduation (2005)

My college also required one science-type class, so I took one that I had heard so many amazing things about – Atom, Man, and Universe.  It was a 200-student class (no social distancing there!), taught in a theater-style classroom by this adorable older gentleman from Israel.  He was wonderful, and the material was so interesting.  I got a B in the class, but I felt like I learned so much, and grasped it.

These days, my favorite kind of science involves planetariums and museums, and my favorite kind of math involves practical applications.  While there were times I certainly thought “I’ll never use this again,” it was a teenage mentality and it certainly is not the truth.

The best kind of math and science, for me, is the surprise kind.  Where you didn’t think you’d learn either subject, it comes out of its way to teach you something.  That type of “surprise Math” is the basis for a very entertaining – and educational – short from 1959, featuring someone else who believed there was not actual use for Math.  It’s also my Retro Rewatch for this week!

A “Mighty Strange” Place

Donald In Mathmagic Land is a 1959 short film by Walt Disney, released theatrically on a bill with Darby O’Gill and the Little People.  The film was nominated for an Academy Award, and made available to schools beginning in the 1960s, considered to be one of the most popular educational Disney films ever made.

Donald Duck is hunting, when he wanders into a “mighty strange” place – a land where numbers flow over waterfalls, trees with square roots, and then is encountered by a walking pencil that wants Donald to play Tic-Tac-Toe with it.  As he wanders further, a geometric bird recites all the numbers of Pi.  It is then that the unseen “True Spirit of Adventure,” merely a disembodied voice, welcomes Donald to Mathmagic Land and “the wonder of mathematics.”

Donald is immediately resistant to the whole idea, as “math is for eggheads.”  But the Spirit decides to strike a “chord” with Donald, by piquing his interest in music.

Alright True Spirit of Adventure, you have him, he’s listening.

The early origins of music, as created by Pythagoras and his contemporaries (and their “jam session”) in Ancient Greece, is explored.

Music gives way to the pentagram, the golden section of the pentagram, and how it constructs golden rectangles, as well as the influence of the golden rectangle in ancient and modern cultures – construction of buildings, creating of paintings, and even dancing!

The golden rectangle isn’t just for construction of buildings, creation of paintings, and dance, but also to humans and nature – the “ideal proportions” of the human body fit the structure of the golden rectangle.

Well, almost every body.  Not everyone is “mathematically perfect.”

In nature, the pentagram is found in flowers and animals, with the golden section featured in nature’s designs.

From nature to games, Donald learned that mathematics plays a pivotal role in the games one plays, including chess (which features a nice nod to Alice in Wonderland), baseball (Donald loves this!), football, basketball, hopscotch, and three-cushion billiards.

After some “mental housecleaning” of Donald’s antiquated ideas, bungling, false concepts, superstitions, and confusion, Donald plays with a triangle and circle in his mind, which gives way to the learning of how the two work together, spinning them into a sphere and a cone, and giving way to the invention of the wheel, magnifying glass, train, drill, spring, propeller, and telescope.

Finally, Donald learns that pentagrams – and in turn, numbers – can be drawn into infinity – no paper is big enough to accomplish this, and that technological advances and scientific knowledge are unlimited.  The key to unlocking the future, the Spirit informs Donald, is mathematics.

With his newfound appreciation and knowledge of how math figures into everything (my aforementioned “surprise math”), Donald finds out that the doors to the future will be unlocked by the curious and inquiring minds of future generations.

The True Spirit of Adventure ends the lessons with the words of Galileo:

“Mathematics is the alphabet with which God has written the universe.”

Because Math!

My Reaction

Donald in Mathmagic Land was released as part of Disney’s Mini Classics collection in 1988. I owned the VHS of this, along with Mickey and the Beanstalk.  I believe we had Wind in the Willows also, or in the very least rented it.  I do remember these Mini Classics very well.  The video went to a younger cousin when I was in my teens (as alot of my videos and clothes did), so I lost track of it for a few years in the 90s, until I was in high school.

My eleventh grade math class, Algebra 2, watched this movie on the last day before winter break.  This was in 1999, and prior to that, it had been at least five years (probably more) since the last time I watched this.  And it was the last time I saw it.  Not something I ever forgot, but not something I approached watching again.

Until this week.

I had a pretty good memory of the animation and the rectangles, as well as the billiard scene and live action band, so watching this again really jogged some good memories of watching this in my living room as a six-year-old.  I really enjoyed this back then, didn’t understand much of it, but as an adult, I get it.  The concept is simple – math is everywhere (even when you least expect it), and its hidden knowledge is waiting to be unleashed from behind a locked door and shared with the world.

The animation is just as beautiful as I remember it, very much on par with Disney animation of the time.  The music is whimsical and beautiful, and the sound effects – especially the ones used to highlight all the rectangles on the Parthenon in Athens, Greece – always got my attention.

Ding-ding-ding!

If any of the concepts were a little fuzzy from so many years of not watching this, the billiards scene is the one that I remember best.  At 4 minutes and 46 seconds, it is the longest of the “live action” segments, but has alot of detail and explanation as to how the game is played, and how the player figures out his strategy. Even as a kid, this was always fascinating.

I’ll be perfectly honest, as soon as the video got to the section on games, I said “the billiards segment!” out loud.  It just always has stuck with me.

I love this video, all of it.  It was good then, it was good as a teenager, and it is good now.  I had so much fun watching it on the treadmill – I actually thought it was longer than 27 minutes.  It made my workout go a little faster, which is not always a bad thing!

Watch Donald in Mathmagic Land

Even if you’ve seen it before, even if you don’t understand all the concepts of math (I don’t, but I get some of it), this is a fun watch.  I have the DVD of it (and I’ve converted it to digital), but it is also on YouTube.

Upload via TrueDisney

Remember, “Mathematics is the alphabet with which God has written the universe.”  It may not always seem like you need math, but it is always there, always advancing, always helping science – and life – advance.  And yes, you do need it.

Because Math!

Have a great day!

Retro Rewatch - "Donald in Mathmagic Land": The Wonderland of Mathematics is the setting for this 1959 "edu-taining" Disney short! "Math is for eggheads!"