#he does not act upon his desires and honestly seems to not have any to some

[isekyaaa]

Wriothesley and Neuvillette have nothing wrong with them at all. No red flags. I have no story ideas for them whatsoever. :/

[simplyreveries]

just saw that requests are open 🗣️🗣️

I already asked this for housewardens, but can you maaayyyybbeeeee do the rest of the dorms with s/o who’s like their movies princess

yes!!<3

trey clover

he finds it endearing with your curiosity, you always seem to be coming to him with questions upon questions about twisted wonderland. he sometimes forgets that this is all so new to you, whereas he has been used to this world his whole life. he chuckles in amusement and does gently advise you when dealing with certain people or things regarding this world. he wants to look out for you— you can’t help but make trey worry sometimes!

whenever you tend to get stubborn and talk back to others, such as riddle (who is equally as stubborn) you two get along but yet butt heads quite often with your attitudes. trey seems to make himself the mediator between you two, he shakes his head playfully and teases that you're too troublesome.

finds it flattering, but honestly a little difficult to concentrate whenever you’re around— only because you’re so impressed of such simple magic and things he can do naturally. when he absentmindedly uses it for cooking in such your wows and awes make him laugh, he’ll tell you he feels nervous though when it seems like he has an audience now haha.

ruggie bucchi

no because you genuinely made him nervous... when he had met you, he was expecting you to be some easy target or someone he thought he might try to get some madol out of... he was wrong. at first, he knew at that point you weren’t someone easily to be messed with in such a way. he eventually did grow a huge amount of respect for that.

ruggie snickers and laughs whenever you get confrontational with any sort of bothersome savanaclaw students or even leona— (surprisingly he doesn’t seem to respond much to that, he seems to back down around you as well). he enjoys how willingly you get into the face of others. whereas he's sneakier and unconfrontational you're pretty much the opposite here. he never seems worried about you though when it comes to that, he finds it amusing.

you two often get into playful banter with each other all the time- witty remarks and teasing. he loves it, there has been a few times you've managed to make him flustered.

jade leech

he truly thinks you're too innocent. too easily swayed, he finds it oh so endearing. not to mention, your fascination of this world makes him laugh. especially whenever you decide to approach him inquiring him about plants, animals, things he may have seen as he's always seeming to be out hiking in the woods and mountains that are near the school.

jade enjoys sharing what he knows- but he is able to give you more information about the coral sea since that's what he's known for most of his life. he suggests the idea of you visiting there sometime on your own accord. instead of when you were tangled into that deal with azul, he'd tease. he remembers the curiosity and awe as you went to the museum there.

your knack for collecting items is endearing to him, if there's a chance he's ever out somewhere- like a gift shop in another country, he makes sure to get something for you. he chuckles pleased when he sees the excited look on your face and rambling.

jamil viper

he admires and honestly even relates to your own personal desires of independence and exploring. jamil has always wanted to travel and see the world,, he tells you often that he wants you to come with him to not only his homeland but other places he was interested in and thinks you'll enjoy too. ever since chapter 4 he has been able to get some more space- and he wants to do that with you.

though he is used to kalim, being such a kinder person a school like this, he thinks you should still be cautious because of the students around you. whenever you show acts of kindness, he gently reminds you about people like octavinelle exist...!

jamil huffs at your stubbornness sometimes, even though he really is no different than you. so even if he does get a little frustrated (mostly only out of worry for you) he can't help but laugh because you two are similar in such ways. he lets you win.

rook hunt

we've seen his liking to neige,,,, he is no different with you. he finds your optimism for such a situation you're in truly beautiful. he thinks your perseverance through the chaos you've been thrown into and willingness to fix ramshackle up a little to be a bit homier was cute even.

rook has a habit always watching out for you. he can't help but feel some sense of wanting to protect when it comes to you. even though he can't help but already be around you all the time with how overly loving he is.

he easily developed such a fascination to you, he always found you somehow throughout the day. he adores your voice; he thinks it's the loveliest thing he's heard. he constantly comes out of nowhere- surprising you tell you how beautiful you sounded to him. rook claims he could listen to it all day and knowing him, he's not exaggerating.

lilia vanrouge

he doesn't show it in the most obvious way, it tends to come off more playful- but lilia does have a sense of protectiveness over you like malleus would. like i said though, he could easily play it off and twist it into him just finding you and popping up bizarrely from some ceiling, greeting you sweetly. he does seem to always have an eye on you. he thinks you're too good of a soul for a school like this sometimes.

finds your daydreamy and hopeful demeanor so,,, sweet. he is giggling as you tell him your hopes and ideas for your future. lilia tells you he'll make them happen. knowing what he's capable of.... he means it.

he'll grin and playfully twirl you to make you laugh - when he catches you off in your own world. he doesn't seem to really snap you out when you're off in your own world. he just watches you smitten; he laughs if you notice him staring and wouldn't deny it.

[ruewrites]

Creation

AO3

Word Count: 3677

Warning(s): None

A/N: I hope y'all enjoy! I had a lot of fun participating in the gift exchange @obeymeholidayexchange! my giftee was @spaceshxtking and the prompt I chose was "What Barbatos does on his (forced) day off". I HOPE YOU LIKE IT DIA-RYAN 💗

Barbatos scanned the rows of fresh fruits and vegetables, his human world attire fluttering gently in the morning breeze. It wasn't often he had a day off, honestly he'd rather not have one at all, he was in perfect condition as always, and his goals aligned with anything his young lord desired. 

Unless the young lord desired him to take a day off, that was simply out of the question.

His work was all he needed. It was his art, his craft, and he took extra care of it so that he stayed sharp and vigilant.  After all, what would become of him if he dared to let his skills falter? A dull butler was hardly fit to stand next to the future king of the Devildom, and Barbatos had tried to plead this case, but this was one of few disagreements that he would not win. Diavolo was insistent, he would not accept any answer other than an enthusiastic yes from the Time Demon. Not only an enthusiastic yes, but he also couldn’t stay near the castle grounds, and how much farther could one go before hitting the Celestial Realm than that of the Human Realm?

He plucked an apple from a cart and smiled. Even after all these years they still enjoyed temptation. 

They were all perfectly ripe and prime for harvest. Even if it was his day off, it didn’t mean he couldn’t indulge in one of his favored hobbies, and if his hobby was to result in a delectable apple crumb cake for his Master for dinner, who could fault him? Besides they were a most delectable red, a shade that would certainly remind his master of his favored fallen angel’s eyes. 

Who could fault Barbatos for being so thoughtful and generous with his never ending time? 

Dropping his payment into the seller's hand and pleased with his purchase, Barbatos continued to make his way down the row of stalls when a familiar voice reached his ears. Stopping, he focused, and listened. 

“Maybe you can have it when you reach it, kid.”

“Hey! That’s not fair!”

Cruelty disguised as humor was the lowest form of torture in Barbatos’ humble opinion. It was used by cowards too afraid to acknowledge their own shortcomings. The apple never did fall far even after generations, not since Adam turned on Eve. When the benefit of doubt worked in their favor and cast stones upon another they clasped at it with sweaty palms and whispered sweet words with foul breath.

They could at least be more creative with how they acted, and more clever.

“Teasing a child? I’d hardly say that’s a good look for business.”

Barbatos prided himself on his outward appearance. He must always appear calm and collected. It wasn’t necessarily about how one reacts in a situation, but about the aura one emitted. Onlookers were less likely to get involved if they didn’t immediately perceive a hostile threat, and the less obvious he could make himself appear, the better. 

He watched with interest as the man cowered before him. There was a specific type of fear that Barbatos enjoyed when a snake noticed a hawk, once they are no longer the apex predator they tremble like the worms they are, reminded of their proper position in the food chain. The way their shoulders hunch and their lips twitch betray their intentions as they step back in line. They remember they aren’t the smartest or the most tactful, that there is always a bigger fish lurker in the depths beneath them waiting for a given opportunity to strike. Suddenly the tiniest slip ups matter, the smallest mistakes could cost their final breath, and no other soul around is any the wiser. 

“I wasn’t-”

“You weren’t?” Barbatos mused, taking a step closer to the stall, “It seemed to me like you were.” His eyes flashed and his head tilted to the side. Despite the open streets and the crowded sidewalks his prey was cornered and alone. 

Sins had a price.

Especially sins against his own. 

“No, no sir! I just like to have a little fun with the kids,is all,” the salesman laughed and attempted to roll his shoulders back into a straighter position to regain his footing, “Makes them eat right and such so they can get big and strong. Ya know?”

Barbatos hummed in response and glanced at the bag of sugar in the man’s hands. 

Silence made the clerk squirm, returning to a state that Barbatos preferred him to be him. It was much more suited to his nature after all. The man cleared his throat, “You uh, you got kids? You know what I’m talking about right?”

Barbatos smiled and placed a hand on top of the mop of blonde hair beside him, “This one finds his way into my care quite often. So if you wouldn’t mind-”

“Oh! Of course! Feel free to take it at a discount! For being such a kind fellow.”

Barbatos was no such thing.

The young angel before him looked up at him with shining wonder as he handed over the bag of sugar. Admiration was painted across his features and he reached out to hand over the coins he’d been carrying, “You really are something Barbatos! How’d you get so good at bartering like that?”

“With a milenia of experience behind me. It is quite the pleasure to run into you here, Luke.”

Luke’s grin quickly turned into a frown, “You can say that again. I don’t know why humans act like that sometimes. Don’t they know how they’re coming across and how rude it is? I thought they would have known better.”  He thought for a moment, pondering as he and Barbatos continued to walk along. “Well, I guess even Solomon has his quirks, but he doesn’t really count as a normal human does he?”

“In some ways I suppose.”

That sorcerer was certainly  far from normal. 

“Speaking of not normal, why aren’t you at the Demon Lord’s Castle.”

It would appear that they were playing a game of Topics that would make Barbatos Bristle at the current time. How lucky for him.  

“The Young Master thought it would be an excellent idea for me to take the day off, and what better way than to enjoy the Human Realm and all the exquisite ingredients it has to offer?” Offering the young angel another smile, Barbatos forced his annoyance away. It wasn’t Luke’s fault that others failed to understand him and the importance of his work. 

Luke continued to hop along, looking over eggs at the next stall they came across, “I can see why they want you to take a break, because they care about you and want what’s best for you right? But I also think it’s a little frustrating.”

Insightful for a being who has not experienced creation for long. 

Well, perhaps for a human, maybe, but not for creatures such as angels and demons. If humanity were a speck in the history of creation, Luke was a slightly smaller speck. Maybe he would have been old enough to witness their Dark Age, but that was being generous, at least Barbatos thought so, but who could say? Most beings looked young to him with where he was now, it certainly made it hard to tell who experienced what when, even without all of the different possibilities at all. 

“Simeon sends me away a lot. Michael will give me a task and Simeon will say he can handle it, that I should spend more time ‘enjoying youth’,” a small huff left his lips as he placed the eggs gently into his basket, “But why should I? I like doing what I do, why should I spend my time doing something else? If I want to get anywhere later in life, pleasing Michael is the best way to do it. After all, Raphael was the youngest angel to become a seraphim for now- I’m going to be the youngest Seraphim ever in existence!”

Barbatos was silent for a moment, pretending to look over the other produce as Luke spoke. “I can’t say I disagree with Simeon all too much,” he said, “After all, he has lived much longer than you have, he knows a thing or two about growing.”

“But why Barbatos?” Luke asked, looking genuinely betrayed as he turned towards Barbatos, “I thought if anyone, you would understand. I like working. It's what I want to do with my life and it aligns with my goals. Isn’t that enough? Why should I not do it if it’s what I like?”

Barbatos stopped. For a moment he was genuinely stunned, and a sincere smile made its way across his face. Some angels liked to spread the word that they were above sin, especially to humans, but they were just like the rest of them. Perhaps they were above humans in some ways, but angels and demons were more similar than those particular angels chose to believe. The act of turning one thing into something else just made some angels more comfortable, and so they chose to turn such acts into (what they considered) more positive attributes. 

Or maybe it was all about perception. 

Perhaps there was no sin at all. 

At the end of the day, could intention matter more?

This was what Barbatos loved about creation, how curious it all was, especially younger spawns of her whimsy. They wanted to know everything, why and why not, how and how not. Some would even consider knowledge itself a sin, but was it really? 

Barbatos had been around for a long time, perhaps even since the beginning of time itself, whenever that was. Or should he say whatever that was? Oh he made himself chuckle from time to time. There was that word again, time-

But that was a different stream of thought for a different day. 

Or maybe a different him had already gone down that path, and he could review it as if it had happened now.

But now, now now, he needed to contemplate how to answer Luke’s question in the best way. 

“No creature is perfect, and oftentimes our greatest strengths, can also become our greatest flaws.” Barbatos continued to act as if was examining the produce as he spoke, picking apart each individual molecule with his eyes as he went. “A star burns bright, but its light is snuffed out so quickly. Ambition is like that. You burn until you have nothing else to give, and at that point you fade from existence.”

Stepping back, he finally turned towards Luke, “You won’t become a seraphim if your wings no longer exist, now can you?”

Luke’s eyes cast downwards towards the ground as he shook his head, “I guess not. That’s why Simeon and Diavolo both want us to take breaks huh?”  

There was no possibility in which an honest lesson wouldn’t have turned against him.

“After all, he can’t be a great king if his loyal butler isn’t by his side. Right?”

Another chord struck inside him, this one softer and more melodious. 

To be young and naive of the world. Any demon would know what dangerous game they were playing with Barbatos by bringing up his profession, he was even well known among gifted humans and circles of angels who whispered his name. He was certain there were angels who thought Simeon more than foolish to allow Luke to be left in his care. Even Raphael threw him a wary glance from across rooms. Any danger Luke had once perceived from him had vanished, and wouldn’t that be quite the complex problem for the Celestial Realm to untangle?

Was he not still an enemy or a scheming foe?

The young lord’s plan to unite the Three Realms was not without controversy after all. While the Celestial Realm was participating, they weren’t without their hesitancies. Then there was the issue of how both angels and demons viewed humans. It all came to the same conclusion for many angels: Demons were monstrous, unholy, and sinful creatures of the dark. It was no fault of their own, it was how they were taught. How could they ever learn any different. 

Had it not been for Simeon’s more personal affections towards his fallen comrades, he would have likely been the same. 

“Barbatos?”

“Yes Luke?”

“Do you want to bake together?” Luke glances at Barbatos’ bag and then back up at the demon. “That’s what you were planning on doing right? You were going to make something for Diavolo on your time off?”

“Observant as ever Luke, in fact I was.”

“We could go to the Angel’s Halo! Simeon won’t mind if we borrow the kitchen a bit for baking,” Luke said, grabbing Barbatos’ hand without waiting for an answer. While initially hesitant about demons and their nature, the young angel was eager to share his joys and hobbies with Barbatos. Perhaps his view of demons was changing, or perhaps Barbatos was an exception to the rule. “Did you have plans for what you wanted to make?”

“How would you feel about an apple pie?”

***

Flour was powdered across the counter, coating it as the world was covered with the first flurries of snow in winter. The timer ticked away slowly as the demon and angel talked about everything and nothing. Barbatos spent most of his time listening as Luke spoke of all he learned, what had happened since last they’d talked, and his hopes for the future. In many ways, he reminded Barbatos of a young Diavolo. Children were all so similar. The young lord and Luke had grown up in similar environments, taught to hate their enemy and all of their flaws. 

Yet his young lord grew up wanting to unite the three realms and bring peace. 

Maybe Luke would grow to be less hesitant by the idea. 

Day by day his worldview was changing. 

Day by day those ingrained beliefs were fading. 

Simeon had left a note behind, informing Luke that he had gone out on his own shopping trip but that he’d soon return. So the butler and the angel were left with the kitchen to themselves, to create and craft from their own mind’s eye. Now the dough was forming, morphing, changing into something new, something they wouldn’t truly know until it was done. Barbatos swiped away the flour from the counter as Luke washed their dishes. The clinking of metal and the gentle stream of warm water were calming to Barbatos’ ears. He hummed along softly and he revived the counter back to her former sparkling and pristine form. The transformations always pleased him, watching something filthy and soiled become new and glorious once more. 

When he caught his own reflection on the surface, his chest welled, and a smile was staring back at him.

Cleanliness was close to godliness, and Barbatos revelled in removing the dirt that smudged perfect visions, even if he was the one responsible for cloudy vision in the first place. 

Sometimes the joy of a mystery was giving someone a push in the right direction.

Sometimes teaching involved holding back and giving nudges to the answer rather than saying it outright. 

Swiping his cloth once more across the counter, he was finally pleased with its appearance and nodded back towards his reflection. 

“Barbatos?”

“Hm?” His ears twitched as he focused on Luke’s voice.

 “Why do you think people like baking?”

“I find it relaxing for one, I imagine others do as well,” Barbatos chuckled, “Or perhaps it’s the generosity of sharing with others.”

Or the never ending search for praise and adoration, to have another hung so close on something that had been made and to have them indulge in it. There was truly nothing better, especially not when someone relied on him so heavily. It was a wonderful feeling, to be a confidant and close friends. 

There were some who would call his desires fiendish, yet others would know the deepest parts of him and still call him a friend.

How dare the latter demand him take time off for his own wellbeing. It was nothing short of cruel even if well intentioned, but once again, that was his own interpretation. His Master would never see it as cruel. Even if he did, well, Barbatos doubted that would make him change his decisions. The young lord was the Prince of Demons after all. In the eyes of some, he was torturing Barbatos for no other reason to be cruel.

In his personal opinion, he had just taught his Master too well. 

He’d probably end up teaching Luke too well too. 

How ironic life was.

“Well I guess.” Luke’s brow furrowed in frustration for a moment as he searched as to why Barbatos’ answer wasn’t satisfactory. Barbatos knew it wasn’t the answer he was searching for, that’s why he gave it. Now he waited as Luke worked through how to clarify what it was he was searching for. “But why?”

“Elaborate. I told you why.”

“What makes us like our hobbies? Why like baking? What about making things is so…fun?”

Barbatos nodded and closed his eyes, “I think we all love to participate in the acts that allow us to be here.”

Before Luke could finish cocking his head in confusion,  Barbatos continued, “We are all creatures of creation. At one moment in time we weren’t here and at another we were. Or we were something before we became something else. Or we were unconscious and then gained consciousness. Regardless of the circumstances of our birth, or what the definition of birth is, the act instills something into our very nature. We yearn to touch the stars and craft them. Even if we can't, we try the next best thing.”

Barbatos grabbed a container from the cabinet before walking closer. “Cup your hands.”

He tapped the container a few times into the angel’s hands, and then the two of them watched as the golden sprinkles sparkled in the light of the kitchen. Luke moved his hands from one side to the other, making the tiny stars flicker in his palm.

“Do you understand?”

The oven timer rang out in the kitchen. 

***

Barbatos sat by and watched as Luke changed the fluffy crust of their pie into the leaves of a tree. He added tiny detail etched in with his glaze. The small details he added never ceased to surprise Barbatos. The way he changed the viewpoint of the tree intrigued him. Fluffy clouds had been added around the border, making it seem as if they were viewing the tree from above.

Why this choice?

Perhaps he would never know.

Or maybe he would, just not now. 

“It smells heavenly in here.” 

Simeon entered the kitchen with bags in both of his arms, “Hello Barbatos, it’s surprising to see you here. Is Diavolo around?”

“I’m afraid not. I’ve been sent here on mandatory vacation. Could I assist you with those?”

“I believe I’ve got it. Besides, I wouldn’t want to ruin your mandatory vacation.”

How irritatingly polite of him.

“Plus, I think you and Luke have been hard at work here, haven’t you?”

Luke nodded, finally peering up from his work  to allow Simeon a better view of his handiwork, “We made a human world apple pie. I decorated the crust myself.”

Simeon’s eyes sparkled as he looked down at the young angel’s work, his hands clasped close to his lips and hardly hiding the smile behind them. “Wonderful work Luke! You know, I think Barbatos has inspired some of your best work I’ve ever seen.”

“I merely offer support and guidance, I leave Luke to his own creative devices,” Barbatos chimed, keeping his spot back by the other counter, “Still, I would say he is my star pupil in the kitchen.”

“Don’t let Solomon hear you say that.”

“I would say it louder if he were here.”

Maybe Barbatos imagined it, but he could have sworn the angel stifled a laugh behind his hands. He was more than aware of how Barbatos felt, and certainly more than aware of the antics of that sorcerer. 

“Of all of them, Luke is the shining apple of my eye, and right now he looks like an apple too.”

Luke stood between his mentors, face red and looking as if he wished he could sink into the floor between them. Despite that, there was something about him that was beaming, a small smile toying at the edges of his lips, his eyes fixed on and reflecting the sparkling sugar that coated his crust and sat delicately atop his glaze. Both made by his own hands.  

“Well, I think it would be more than appropriate if we invited you to stay for dinner and tea,” Simeon said, starting to open some of the cabinets, “By some twist of fate, I had gotten some new tea blends while I was out and they just so happened to remind me of you. Consider it my thanks for being such a wonderful influence in Luke’s life.”

Simeon’s views were changed by his own experiences. He was aware just as much as Barbatos was how it could hurt him later. They both knew that Simeon should be keeping Luke farther away from Barbatos to keep a powerful select few in The Celestial Real happy. They both knew that they would question Simeon and his suitability as a guardian further. They would question where his loyalties lied. 

 Yet here they both were, creating and shaping the future of another in tandem.

Their actions would have irreversible consequences, for Luke would never forget the silent lessons they taught nor the experiences they shared.

Every decision, every minute singular act, was one of irreversible creation. Not even Barbatos was yet sure what their rebellion would birth.  

Perhaps this outing wasn’t as much of a cursed punishment as much as he had believed. 

Perhaps this was one of those set moments in time that would forever impact the future.

“I would be more than delighted.”

[ctheathy]

Yan! Miles Prower(Where was my Hero) or Yan! Nine(Prime) your choice please.Just basic headcannons for either one is fine please. Have a good day too

Yandere Miles Prower [Where Was My Hero] Headcanons

Miles “Tails” Prower x Reader

Yandere Headcanons

Author’s note : Good afternoon, Nonnie~! You’re in luck, I’ve been having immense brainrot about these two for the past month or so, because of this I’m willing to write for the both of them in separate posts.

We’ll start with Miles from Where Was My Hero? due to him being the first when it comes to the villain Tails concept. He also feels a whole lot more personal on my end, so that’s why =}

Yandere Nine + Differences ➷

WWMH Tails/Reader [Romantic]

+Slight Nine x Reader in bonus section [Romantic//platonic]

[Gender-neutral Darling|Female Darling|Male Darling]

Potential ⚠️TWs ⚠️ :

Possessive+Predatory behaviour • Sadistic behaviour [Not directed torwards darling] • Cunning characteristics • Descriptions of intense bullying • Delusions • Co-dependency • Implications torwards mass murder • Suicidal implication • stalking • Abuse of power

◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘◙◘

This version of the Miles we all love and adore has been a very ... Ill-treated character. He’s been met with uncountable variants of both harassment and bullying, having him shown specifically being pushed around a lot by his persecutors. Other examples being his work getting destroyed to bits, nasty stares being given, insults being thrown left and right when given his presence, and pretty much just tormenting the poor thing to no end, for absolutely no reason nonetheless. The invalid reasonings and arrogant choices having turned his life into a living hell for the longest time. Yet even so, he still remained to be a sweet and gentle soul, but all it took was one last hit to completely push him over the edge.

You could have met the fox throughout his youth or perhaps even through adulthood, but that wouldn’t change anything within the unnatural behaviours the mobian would indicate torwards you in particular. Though there would certainly be quite the difference in both states when it comes to how his emotions seem to appear, the potential for yandere characteristics have always been there. And pushing him to that condition wouldn’t even be too difficult in itself, it honestly only requiring holding the bare minimum of decent behaviours. But as mentioned before, there will definitely still remain a few important changes out there in both his habits and mannerisms to take note of when describing the specific ageing state of his.

For example; there should be noted that he’d be one to fall a whole lot quicker at a younger age, the immense shock yet immediate admiration already glowing in his eyes right off the bat when you do as much as defend him from the bystanders’ ridicule. Even just not looking down upon him like any other he has crossed paths with can already make the fox completely smitten with ease, almost making the fox cling to you like it’s the only bit of life support left for him. His adoration is also one to grow rather quickly over time, inserting his obsessive streaks who are slowly starting to find themselves into both of your lives right off the bat. Young Miles isn’t necessarily one to stand to violence at any early points, but that really does not mean he’s not capable of it if it fits his desires. But for now on, he’d much rather prefer to just let you do whatever you want to him, and perhaps acts on the unsavoury side that include watching you from afar and collect any of the potential items you may leave behind right for the taking, having no realisation over the fact how creepy his ways truly are, despite how much his delusions may try to convince him otherwise. Other than the stalker-ish tactics he may hold, he couldn’t really be considered harmful torwards his darling in any way, but it’s rather his own stability and the safety of anyone around which is put at intense risk.

Where the real threat comes in is how he’d quite literally do anything his beloved asks of him, and while these may just be small and innocent gestures, this could also include those who could be considered dangerous or even meant as ill-intented. If his darling is one to be the manipulative type, it’s only then when real victims start to appear. It unquestionably confirming the fact that he’d really be just as dependent on you as the original Tails Prower would, and while Miles may have been identical to him at some point, you’d be able to notice how careless he actually grows torwards any other life over time. Starting to view them as lack of priority and instead just wanting to concentrate on the goal of keeping you satisfied with him.

When he became an adult, however ... He is described to have straight up become a sadistic, uncaring and perhaps even considered detached mobian right after the accident; being robbed of all emotion and feelings zero remorse for any other being out there in a way of advancing the little bird that had lost its life for his sake. The most fitting way to directly say it would just be saying that he’s apathetic; apathetic torwards any life around his own. Though I don’t believe that to be entirely true. Not for this case, at least. As right on the other hand, when having met him around the matured years of his, he’d fall harder than his younger self, but he seems to have trouble showcasing this; while clearly being more gentle with his darling in indirect mannerisms, he’d unfortunately still remain rather dispassionate when it comes to their affectionate demeanour showing, the fear of both betrayal and slight distrust in their genuineness holding him back, much like it would with Nine aswell.

But unlike Nine, Miles could be considered to be a whole lot more low-key; operating as a cold and calculated mobian and usually keeping to himself in order to keep his schemes under control, where Nine instead has no hidden motives to concentrate on. Miles’ behaviour would very much symbolise that of a chess player; gaining the upper hand and power through manipulation and being more patient in the category than Nine is. Another thing that should be mentioned is how you can barely even read the fox’ facial expressions and body language, it almost seeming as if it has been plastered into a mere poker face on the daily, making it difficult to keep up with any plans and tricks he might have up his sleeve.

Another thing I’d wish to concentrate on is how forceful and cunning he can become in his position of power when the darling is one to be disobedient. Though never wishing to cause any physical harm onto his darling, and absolutely demolishing anything and everyone that manages to even lay a finger on them; I can however see him enjoying the idea of toying with them. May that be through small tactics that could affect you emotionally or overall just playing with your desire for escaping, even if he has made it very obvious that leaving isn’t even an option for you anymore. He’d likely be one to get your hopes up, only to crumble all of it into bits at the last second. Much like the adjustments he’s made on his own self over the years, specifically the spider-like antennae on his back would also be something that could definitely describe the fox and his characteristics. When you manage to find your way into his heart, there’s unquestionably no getting out of it. This part of the dynamic could very much resemble the prey and predator trope, much like being stuck in the web of the insect itself.

Having worked himself up to an incredibly high rank, he’s most certainly going to take you in with or without your consent. It’s not like he doesn’t care about your feelings and boundaries, but he believes other topics to be prime concern, especially when being very well aware of the fact that it’s quite the opposite of safe out there. All he’s doing it for is in order to keep you secure and sheltered-! Yeah... Atleast, that’s what he tells himself. When realistically, hidden somewhere in the back of his head, it’s much closer to keeping the core that keeps his mental state stable locked up for his own stability. Even as he got older, the only real things who’d ever treated him decently being his machinery creations aside from-well-- you. But he’d never be able to admit to himself that he is still this reliant on another, especially after making himself out to be so independent as the feared and well-known mastermind everyone knew him as. But another thing that would have pushed him on edge even further would be the fact that it’s still undoubtedly dangerous out there. He knows his creations have the mechanics to target and attack anything moving, and he sure as hell doesn’t want you to fall victim to his robotic comrades.

Even when abducted, I can the fox being rather on the paranoid side, questioning his ability to keep you safe while being such a wanted delinquent. If anything, you may or may not already be able to notice a pinch of his sanity slipping away even further if you manage to get hurt in the slightest. I can also see the fox having quite the struggle when it comes to showing you his genuine intentions and emotions. Hiding his true feelings behind a large wall that seemingly lacks any kind of emotion... But if anything, it might even be the complete opposite when paying attention to the little details; perhaps when diving deeper into it, he might even be considered as emotional. In a way, he behaves incredibly repulsive torwards any of the affection you offer, often flinching at the slightest hint of a touch and usually even just avoiding it at a regular basis. But right at the same time, he clearly craves it; unintentionally leaving out small hints here and there when he longs for the simplest act such as holding your hand. Making it more than obvious that despite wanting to deny it on severe levels, he is just vulnerable as his younger self would be.

Something on a sweeter note, however, he’d certainly compare you to the little bird he nursed back to health when he was younger. He’s never had many creatures whom he could share his love with ... Aside from his pet bird, practically none, even. And because of this, he feels incredibly understood and puts a lot of trust in you for even allowing him to adore you like this, especially when considering your position. He hasn’t experienced a lot of joy in his life, but you? You make him happy. He understands your feelings may not be mutual to his own, but to him; you truly are his forever. The longer you’re with him, the closer he becomes to reaching the point of believing you to be the only dream and motive left for Mobius entirely. And though feeling a bit guilty for not showing it as much as he should have, he had always already found you to be the one hope left in this pitiful universe. You’re one of a kind to him, and he had finally gotten his hands onto a true motive to keep himself going; making you shine at your best.

Even if it requires his own demise in order to get you to that point.

Bonus section #1 : Similarities

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An early yet important part to take note of is that both would absolutely not hesitate to get violent when it comes to their darling. Both live in fairly dangerous environments and given the circumstances with their behaviour, they’re definitely going to be ferociously overprotective when it comes to you. When looking at both foxes, I do however see Miles as a much bigger threat when it comes to the safety of any other living being out there. Instead of attacking them out of pure instinct and an obvious outburst of rage like Nine would, Miles is eerily calm about the entire situation, instead making a mental note of the said mobian and making very well sure to make their life a living hell before coldly finishing them off in a brutal manner. And tho they’d both usually be the type preferring to avoid conflict, neither would be uncertain to shed blood or better said, even take lives for your sake.

However, there would definitely be a major weak point that could be used against the both of them with ease; affection. They both have no clue on how to indicate it and how to react to it. Being as lonely as the two have always been in their lives, it’s no surprise to say that such acts leave them completely bewildered and perhaps even somewhat flustered with zero doubt. It may often even be considered awkward in a way, but they seem to crave it to severe extends right at the same time. Unquestionably, they could be seen as touch starved, acting reserved and perhaps even defensive about the entire thing, but melting in your hands when you do the simplest thing such as giving a scratch behind their ears. Over time they’d have a higher chance of getting dependent on your physical love, it literally becoming closer to a need to get through the day. And having no real reasons to hold them back and restrict their limits this time, both foxes might even become somewhat overbearing torwards their darling in response to it.

Another thing is how they’d both seem like the type to get attached rather quickly torwards those who are decent enough to treat them properly. They’ve honestly lacked any kind of politeness for so long that they’d immediately get completely faithful torwards those who show them kindness. The only thing truly holding them back being the question lingering in the back of their heads how long they’ll be able to put up with them before they start treating them like everyone else had done. But like most variants of Tails do, they are honestly in such a high class of emotional devotion to a point where they cannot get themselves to care for it for long.

At last I’d like to mention is how they both wished for the better in the world at atleast some point in their lives. They want to live in a place where all is well and good, wanting to get back the childhood that they’ve been robbed of. Wanting to create a future with you next to them. And though Miles never got the chance to recreate a world to his own favour, he wants to improve the world for your sake. He knows the amount of power he holds over their entire societies, and he will make damned sure to make good use of it, not seeming to care much about the clear misuse of power. Every act shall be done to fit your benefits and they shall not stop until it’s completely adjusted to your preferences. Hypocritically believing it would validate each and every single death and perhaps even the fall of Mobius itself during the process. It would really just become your own world, and they, including Miles are only just living in it.

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[dailyanarchistposts]

How can I be an effective leader (in a non-hierarchical, anti-authoritarian sense)?

As an additional question, does anybody know whether there’s been any writing done on the subject? If so, links? Obviously, we as anarchists oppose leadership in the form of authority and hierarchies. However, I’ve read some things remarking on the organic emergence of “leaders” in anarchist groups, in the form of people who are the most experienced, the most confident, and/or the most capable of taking action. I’ve also seen proposed something akin to “if you must take the role of a leader, do so only for as long as it takes to share your knowledge and experience with those around you”. A leader who encourages others to knock her off her pedestal, so to speak. Basically, what I’ve run into is that a large portion of my friends are either into anarchism or consider themselves anarchists (after being exposed to it, through hanging around me), but don’t have the knowledge/experience/initiative to be confident in working on projects. I really want to share what I’ve got, but honestly I don’t have a lot of experience with “leadership” and instilling confidence and inspiring action. Maybe this is something totally out of my hands and it’s just a matter of waiting for them to find their own initiative and desire to act, but I really feel like what I’ve done thus far is equivalent to saying, “Here’s what anarchism is—if you agree with it, cool. We should do something about it.” And that doesn’t seem like enough.

alc

Time for an epic response; thanks for giving me an incentive to write it out.

Concepts:

A. Guide: a leader who persuades by example and suggestion, based on experience or informed speculation (expressed as such). Practices voluntary relationships. Legitimate.

B. Master: a leader who manipulates through duress or deceit, based on experience or misinformed speculation (often concealed). Practices coercive relationships. Illegitimate.

In my opinion, legitimate leadership requires at least 13 conditions:

Active Choice followers actively and voluntarily decide their roles with informed consent, constantly re-evaluate

Anarchistic Skepticism the burden of justification rests on guides rather than followers

Contextual Merit guides proficient in a specific context

Egalitarian Integrity absence of force and fraud in interactions

Egalitarian Purpose no compensation requested beyond effort ex-pended or direct need; guides and followers live in the same material conditions

Empowering Trajectory concrete processes for empowering followers, sharing information or materials, rotating roles, decentralizing agency, and rendering further guidance unnecessary

Finite Duration guidance duration directly linked to mutually-agreed upon goal(s)

Immediate Recall the followers’ ability to immediately revoke status of guide(s)

Radical Accountability guides redress force, fraud, failure

Radical Transparency honest and empowering explanations of guides’ logic and aims

Responsible Teaching guides want responsibility to followers rather than power over them

Social Leveling the followers thwart guides’ senses of entitlement, arrogance, & contempt

Stakeholder Accessibility the inclusion of all parties deserving agency, based on expressed or implied need

Gently, she grasps her tender lover’s unpracticed cheek.

They brush faces, touch lips. She guides with her affection, encouraging learning in the most compassionate of ways. As their intimacy grows, they reach a balance together, her inexperienced partner becomes a competent lover. And even with all of her practice, she could not help but have her own learning stimulated. Now they walk their path hand-in-hand; neither guides, neither follows.

He remembers his early youth, when his elders taught him to walk in the forest and gather his nourishment. He remembers their confidence, his apprehension, as he first stepped into the bush, nervous, with them. But now he often walks under the pale light of the moon, fetching the acorns, with only his memories keeping him company.

Soon he will teach his little ones to become sons of the leadership oaks, the cycle starting afresh.

Leadership would emerge naturally among the members of a society, very much as it does among children, and confine itself to taking initiatives only when individual ones are impractical. The followers should be the ones to decide whom they will follow and should be free to change leaders as suits their convenience. In a continuum culture like that of the Yequana, the functioning of leaders is minimal and it is possible for any individual to decide not to act on the leader’s decision if he prefers...

Immunization to Authoritarianism

If we want to live without rulers, we need empowerment to immunize us from the threat of authoritarian relationships and defeat the potential pitfalls of leadership.. In order for that to happen, we need to understand the psychology of perception and prejudice, creativity, intelligence, learning, logic and fallacies, intuition, critical thinking, argumentation, problem-solving, planning, systems analysis, and risk management. Those of us who know these things (such as myself) would do well to act as guides and share our knowledge. So here goes:

psychology (self-actualization processes; cognitive biases; psychological heuristics)

prejudice (cognitive, affective, and behavioral prejudices)

creativity (imagination; inspiration; intuition)

increasing intelligence (“seek novelty; challenge yourself; think creatively; do things the hard way; network”)

increasing learning (working memory; attention)

logic (formal vs informal; inductive vs deductive)

reason (logic) vs intuition (instincts, associations)

logical fallacies (search: “Critical Thinking as an Anarchist Weapon”)

awareness of disinformation techniques

critical thinking as “the process of purposeful, self-regulatory judg-ment, which uses reasoned consideration to evidence, context, conceptualizations, methods, and criteria.”

critical thinking components (skepticism; logic; clarity; credibility; accuracy; precision; relevance; depth; breadth; significance; fair-ness)

critical thinking requirements “falsifiability, logic, comprehensiveness, honesty, replicability, sufficiency” “humility, integrity, courage, autonomy” “follow through, open-mindedness, foresight, attention, inquisitiveness, thoroughness, fair-mindedness”

willingness to criticize oneself “Critical thinking clarifies goals, examines assumptions, discerns hidden values, evaluates evidence, accomplishes actions, and assesses conclusions.”

argument mapping (contentions, premises, co-premises, objections, rebuttals, lemmas)

problem-solving (techniques & methodologies; brainstorming; collaboration; networking)

lateral thinking (idea-generating tools; altering focus; selection; application)

planning principles (PsyBlog goal hacks: stop fantasizing; start committing; start starting; visualize process not outcome; avoid the what-the-hell-effect; sidestep procrastination; shifting task-or-goal focus; reject robotic behavior; focus on the aim not the goal; know when to stop; if-then plans; verbal-ization & visualization of processes; contrast positive fantasy/indulging with negative reality/dwelling)

planning methodologies (STOP, OODA loops; SWOT analysis; PDCA cycles; flow charts)

working backwards (goal; strategy; tactics; time-frames; deadlines; review)

systems analysis (complexity; emergence; fragil-ity/resilience; systempunkts; schwerpunkts)

risk management (risks; threats; vulnerability; mitigation)

TL;DR–Skeptical of Guides, Hostile to Masters, Deliberate as Fuck, Destroy Power Through Collective Self-Empowerment, Tell Everyone.

dot

Two more things...

One text that was interesting to me (despite her reputation) was Starhawk’s book on group dynamics and structure (Truth or Dare). It encouraged me to think about the different roles that people play, how they can be played well, and how many (all?) of them have a place in a happy group.

Which leads to the point that being a leader (good or bad) requires participation from the group. To some extent we all are at the mercy of our friends and context (ie part of the problem with how we view leaders is the idea that “a good leader can overcome things on their own”). I have been in many a group that defused a power play, made a comment into a joke (or refused a joke and made it into a comment), etc without even noticing what was happening. When the topic of leaders arises, the context that the individual operates within is not given enough credit for leadership what happens.

The example given by the question seems to be one of commitment, that people are afraid or unwilling to act (which can be for a number of different reasons), and I think that sometimes leaders are merely the people who are willing to do something even if it means they might be wrong (or be seen as wrong).

[btheleaf]

What made you like Pema? :3 Just out of curiosity, I feel like she's a character many people tend to kind of ignore or dislike.

Short answer: Spite

(Very) Long answer:

Tenzin was my first love and obsession when I got back into LOK. I went to AO3 to read about him and his wife! and found the attitudes towards Pemzin... odd? The ship is way less popular than Linzin, which was strange to me at the time, considering Pema/Tenzin are literally married in canon. But hey, whatever, to each their own. Maybe people just like Linzin more. Lin is a sexy badass, so I get it. Maybe people don't wanna write about the air babies. Maybe the age gap or any other countless things were giving people the ick about pemzin. Fine. It's all good to me. I began to look for pemzin fics to enjoy and found 🥲 strange things.

Pema was usually written as some kind of man-stealing demon with a magic coochie that could make Tenzin bend to her will and stay with her despite the fact that he loved Lin more, but at the same time she was a dumb and useless broodmare? More often than not, the Pema/Tenzin fics seemed to be written by people who didn't actually care for the ship and had Linzin endgame in mind.

I thought, "Okay, I'll check out Linzin, surely with way more fics to pick from, I'll find something that focuses on Lin/Tenzin and not Bad and Evil Pema."

I was disappointed to say the least.

So much cheating and lying, so many secret babies. SO MUCH Pema v. Lin, which doesn't do anything for me. I could understand it if there were Actual Reasons, but it was like Pema was showing up to be an emotional homewrecker despite her being IN HER OWN HOUSE. I just... like what the fuck is going on there?

Why does Pema hate Lin SO MUCH? Did the stories ever touch upon that? No. She just hates Lin. Obviously. Lin dated her husband 20 years ago, so she hates her. Logical. Much logic. No explanation. Look no further. Your bad guy is here. Bye-bye interesting concepts. Pema is a bitch and a snake and a man-trap and she never loved Tenzin anyway. She just wanted to be a trophy wife who ushered in a new generation of airbenders. No explanation. Don't question it. She's one-dimensional in a 3D world.

Pema is everyone's favorite bad guy in Linzin fics all because of that one line from Book one that is honestly super fucking cringe about her "seeing her soul mate with someone else." Linzin shippers asked if anyone was going to demonize this mother of four and didn't wait for an answer.

Both Pemzin and Linzin shippers need to learn how to tag their fics for both "emotional cheating" and just straight up "cheating." Navigating this shit is terrible. I once read 50k of a very interesting concept, and then all of a sudden Pema came out of nowhere and just started acting like a jealous 13 year old for no reason and Tenzin QUICKLY left her and the kids to go be with Lin. Like?? I do not understand what the fuck is going on in some people's minds.

WHERE WERE THE FICS THAT PAINTED PEMA AS A WHOLE HUMAN PERSON WITH FLAWS AND WANTS AND DESIRES??? I think most of my comments started having "thank you for writing Pema like a person" somewhere in them.

When I first made this blog and Let It Be Known that I ship pemzin, I got a looooooot of weird anons asking me stuff about like, if I support cheating and shit? I realized that these attitudes towards Pema were not Old Beliefs. These were very real people in the year of 2024 still unable to conceptualize an interesting idea for a character that has SO MUCH room to play with.

We know jack shit about her. We know just enough that makes her entire character like candy to me. She's not around a lot in the show, but also somehow is always still right there? She goes through Some Very Real Shit in every season, and her absence from screen time is like free real estate to fic writers. I literally don't understand how so many people manage to summarize her entire being into the word "snake" and move on. The potential for expanding on her character is limitless because of how little we know. The more people try to stuff her into a box, the more I'll pull her out of it.

I didn't really care about Pema until it became clear that everyone else disliked her. The more people hate her, the more I love her and the more powerful I become.

I'm like this because of how the fandom treats her.

[ryuichirou]

I didn't ship Rollo with anyone before but your take with the vice president caught my attention. Do you have any ideas about them?

Sorry for the late reply~

Yeah, the ship struck us after watching Rollo’s vignette, I can’t believe that Rollo finally has a creep that he can be uncomfortable with.

There isn’t much to talk about with these two, but I do indeed have some thoughts and ideas~

Rollo is so deeply immersed in his own little plots and narratives that he is completely oblivious to the fact that his vice president is in love with him. To Rollo he doesn’t really exist as a figure of any importance, despite them being a school council colleagues. In Rollo’s head, he is one of “the rest” – people who surround him day by day, but also are kind of bothersome… But he does consider him a decent vice president, and it’s kind of a high praise.

The vice president has been in love for a loooong time. Maybe ever since he met Rollo; the guy just seemed so otherworldly to him. What is he thinking about? What bothers him? What hides behind that kind smile and calming voice? Why is he such a genius, how is he so smart? Rollo is an enigma to him, and he is completely enamored.

The vice president probably became a vice president to be closer to Rollo. It wasn’t very easy, but he spent his entire first year of college doing everything to become a vice president by his second year. It’s honestly quite impressive.

He actually has quite a lot of… “naughty little plans” of his own. He arranges things in a way that would make him and Rollo work on student council projects together (even the ones that don’t require president and vice-president to interact), he tries to be in his “team” whenever they do something related to study projects.

When vice president accidentally stumbles upon Rollo, it’s rarely accidental. He knows a lot about Rollo’s schedule, and the fact that Rollo is so conservative about his life and hate any kind of change makes it stupidly easier.

While he didn’t know about Rollo’s evil plans (which is honestly surprising considering how much he pries into his affairs), he has a habit of overhearing things that Rollo says when he thinks that no one is listening. But he would never act upon anything that he hears from him, even if it does sound suspicious and evil. For some reason, it also never ruins Rollo’s image in the vice president’s head.

And this image is completely delusional. He really believes that Rollo is very innocent and pious, that he wants nothing but to make people’s life better and easier. Maybe the vice president isn’t right in the head, but sometimes he compares Rollo to an actual angel.

Which is why he feels so ashamed yet aroused whenever he gets horny dreams and thoughts about him. He is torn, because it would be a shame to ruin such brilliant innocent, but he is also suffocated by his desire. After all, it would be so painfully beautiful (and super hot) to finally make Rollo notice him and to rip off the angel’s wings.

[sirenjose]

Reading Alice's first birthday letter, it's already obvious Orpheus was down in Melbourne and helped Alice escape which is good but at the same time, I wonder how much influence he was having over her life after Melbourne. She managed to get a job as a journalist but thinking about it now, being a test subject wouldn't give much work experience and she managed to get a pretty nice apartment too, unless she managed to reclaim any of her inheritance if she had any. I don't necessarily know how recent they say her escape was could be at year at most. It's a nagging thought especially when you consider how her Deduction Stars are quotes written by someone observing her from afar and treating her like a test subject still.

I honestly need to reread and spend some more time thinking about her letter. It's definitely quite a bit to digest considering how it's written. Orpheus definitely seems implied to have beem the other person involved in her letter. Though I can't say I know for sure where it's taking place. Yes, it could be Australia, but based on the mention of medical reports, "juvenile" handwriting, pen left in a "crevice", nurses, but especially the "iron bars", my 1st thought was this was taking place at the Asylum, yet the mention of "Bourbon's drawer"... based on Alice's flashback in AoM, that could more imply it is Australia. Orpheus we know went to both the Asylum and potentially Australia (based on 1 of the individuals in Alice's flashback looking similar to Orpheus). Not to mention finding the key in a drawer is the same thing we saw in Alice's flashback...

Though I wonder if his true goal was to simply help her escape. If so, why didn't he reach out to her after she escaped, why not re-introduce himself as being her childhood friend? Why did they only meet up once more at the manor? I honestly still wonder if to an extent he was also performing or had the desire to perform some experiment/test on her. Though I guess Australia's tests might've been more just Vilhelm, while Orpheus may be saving his for the manor... Which again, need to ask what he is hoping to accomplish exactly?

And isn't Sam supposed to be working for Orpheus? In which case, Sam might've snagged the key and planted it himself in his drawer upon Orpheus' request. Though if so, what's this about Sam's "secret"...

Honestly, my thoughts right now are obviously scattered and disorganized. If Orpheus is the main one speaking (not saying "Who are you"), that implies Alice did forget Orpheus, at least for a time, while he did not... but then that begs the question why does he at least pretend not to recognize her... and does she not recognize him from her time with Vilhelm? Especially if she only escaped a year or some short amount of time before her game? The medication being messed up might've been why she was able to begin "remembering", though... what was the medication meant to do in the 1st place

I'm honestly really confused... Apologies for these nonsenical thoughts.

Yea, this likely takes place in Australia, and Orpheus is definitely involved in her escape (no idea if Sam was helping Orpheus do this or not, or whatever Sam's "secret" is, unless it has to do with perfecting his dovlin recipe for Demi, I don't know... or secret that Sam is helping Orpheus...). The one who likely forgotten someone is likely Alice forgetting Orpheus considering her mental state after the tragedy based on how she acts backstory video in the asylum prior to the experiments. Besides Sam's secret, we also don't know for certain the express goal of (Vilhelm's?) experiment in Australia. We also don't know why Orpheus didn't decide to reunite with Alice after helping her escape, or why he's using drugs on her at the manor.

Progress, but we're still missing so much...

I imagine her becoming a journalist has to do with her desire for the truth after her experience with her parents dying. She likely wanted to know who did it and why and what happened to everyone (culprits and victims, including Orpheus I imagine) afterwards, and she is an intelligent woman, so that likely would've been a good enough start to get her into that. And if she got any good jobs as that, that might apy for the nice place she has. Though it's possible, as people knew she was the daughter of the murdered DeRoss couple, that she had some inheritance left to buy the place... Though it's possible Orpheus aided her with that, for now I'm assuming she got it herself until otherwise stated.

[7ban-sama]

Who is the traitor?

If you are referring to the traitor that is being investigated early in the manga...

... the person discussed in these panels winds up being Tsukasa, who has been altering rumors through the use of his radio, along with the help of Sakura, who works under him in some manner.

We witness him altering Mitsuba's rumor, and the framing shows us how this has been the same pipeline that the mokke and Yako underwent. Tsukasa's hand, the radio, and so on.

If you want to follow the logic further, Tsukasa is a yorishiro, which is ultimately under the jurisdiction of the mystery that owns it. And we now know that Tsukasa is Hanako's yorishiro.

Initially, Hanako didn't seem to know that Tsukasa was altering the rumors. He actually seems to be shocked that Tsukasa is acting on his own at all?

Which makes sense, from what we know about yorishiro — something supposed to be at a mystery's innermost sanctum. (It'd be equally confusing if Sumire was, suddenly, running about the school, having somehow left Hakubo's boundary.)

However... after the events with Mitsuba's ghost, and the Hell of Mirrors, Hanako quietly stops all attempts at the 'investigation' and doesn't make any mention of this... Nor does he rally Kou and Nene to stop Tsukasa. It's not a proper announcement or anything either. It seems as if he just makes this choice in silence, and doesn't call anyone's attention to it.

We get swept up into things like Tanabata and Picture Perfect, subsequently, anyhow. And by PP, Hanako is actually utilizing the set-up Tsukasa has provided him, and is preoccupied trying to trap Nene, to extend her lifespan. That's a major shift. The fact that Hanako was pretending to be 'Amane' in this world says a lot, honestly.

He knew the world was fake, he knew that Kou and Nene were in danger of being trapped and losing their memories, and he knew Tsukasa was behind this, since he chooses to play along with him in posing as inhabitants of this world. By this point, Hanako no longer can be excused for being ignorant to Tsukasa's actions! He's NOT trying to stop Tsukasa... he actively impedes the others from freeing themselves! This is not a passive role any longer. He's functionally become "part of the problem" at that point.

As obon commences, it gets even more egregious, as Hanako takes no actions to remedy the issue of kaii beginning to run rampant in the school. The destruction of yorishiro was INITIALLY due to investigating who the traitor is, but that's no longer a viable excuse by obon.

By now, Hanako knows that it wasn't a school mystery that was causing a stir. Though he doesn't take it upon himself to inform any of the other mysteries what's really been going on, either. And, well, we know that he has his own desires for how the Severance will pan out...

(He's on so many levels of lying here... -_-)

The broadcast club wanted to interfere with Hakubo during obon, and also get his yorishiro destroyed. Which means the Severance that Hanako kicks off is, again, him utilizing the chaos Tsukasa created for his own personal gain. Their goals are not conflicting.

I'm laying this all out to convey how there's been a continuous uptick of Hanako, not opposing Tsukasa, but rather, going along with Tsukasa's plans. It's interesting that this escalates, as there's not been "much" direct communication between them over this — or, really, not much we've seen...? Maybe a better way to word it is, there's been plausible deniability for a while, whether or not Hanako was very cooperative with Tsukasa all this time.

(There's no way to know how much they conferred in PP... but like. -_-

I mean, enough to be able to act like this, and plan to go stargazing. kimochi warui-!!)

Anyways, by chapter 91, it's no longer ambiguous! Because we have Hanako choosing to work with Tsukasa! Incredible moments-!!! We must all think very hard about this-!!

We finally hit the point of fully agreeing to work towards the same thing-!! Regardless of any reservations! Hanako's hakujoudai only procures Nene from Hakubo's boundary after it begins to collapse, after all. So he was only going to rescue her once she finished the job...

To summarize Hanako's actions: He goes from investigating who "the traitor" is (V1-3) ➡ finding out it's been Tsukasa this whole time (V4-7) ➡ taking no further action against Tsukasa, despite his declarations in Hell of Mirrors (V8) ➡ knowingly going along with a trap set-up by Tsukasa in PP (V9-12) ➡ utilizing the chaos caused by Tsukasa during obon to orchestrate the Severance (V13-15) ➡ agreeing to work with Tsukasa to destroy yorishiro, to get the wish from god! (V18-19)

Ultimately, the threat to the mysteries and their power over the school... The ones who have been destroying the yorishiro, and working behind the scenes to do so... keeping secrets, moving out of the sight of those who seek to stop them... Are No. 7, his yorishiro, and his kannagi! And seeing as flow of power is, the yorishiro and kannagi are owned by the mystery...

Here's your traitor!

[i-cecapades]

ʳᵃⁿᵈᵒᵐ ᵐᵘˢᵉ ᶠᵃᶜᵗˢ.

Did they believe in Santa?: Ai does indeed believe in Santa Claus despite being an adult, though not because he's childish or any thing like that. Ai believes in Santa because he has his son, Sung-Hoon, of whom he wants to be able to share said excitement and wonder with as he gets old enough to be able to enjoy holidays. After all, Ai had always been someone who believed in Santa from the time he was a small child, even if his older brothers tried to ruin said fantasy for him once they were old enough.

Were they a dinosaur or rock kid?: Truthfully, Ai was never one to be interested in dinosaurs or rocks of any kind. In fact, Ai barely had enough time to really play with anything due to the fact he was born into a extremely prestigious family that only wanted him to focus on the finer things in life, such a image and reputation. Yet despite this, Ai seemed to be very invested in snowflakes and the various shapes and patterns they came in. Said snowflakes were also the start of Ai's desire to become a professional ice skater.

Bugs or slimy critters?: Ai isn't really the type to enjoy either of those things unless said bug is a ladybug or a butterfly or just some kind of small bug that can be considered cute. The prime example being those fuzzy moths like the Venezuelan Poodle Moth. Bugs and slimy creatures honestly really freak him out to the point he sometimes starts crying, though that's generally only if said bug or creature is tossed at him or placed on him.

Do they fidget? How?: Yes, Ai is one of the biggest fidgetiers ever. He will literally fidget any time he's anxious or worried about something or someone. He's not good at handling his own emotions, especially those that can be considered negative. Said fidgeting can range in various different ways such as wringing his hands or fingers, scratching at the skin on his upper arms/neck, grabbing at his hair, tugging at the edge of his clothes (especially his shirts), pacing back and forth, whimpering to himself, or even just running off to hide in a nearby corner with his child.

What were they frequently in trouble for as a child?: I wouldn't really say that he got into actual trouble, but rather he would get in "trouble" with his parents for not doing the things they desired for him to do or behaving how they expected him to. Ai was not a problematic child in the slightest, in fact... he was quite the opposite. He always listened and always behaved, not once ever acting out of turn or antagonizing his older brothers like many younger siblings do. In many people's eyes, Ai could be described as an absolute angel.

What underwear do they like?: Not me having to research the types of underwear there are because I have no idea what they are. Ai typically wears bikini briefs because he finds them the most comfortable.

Designs on clothing or no?: I suppose that it all depends? Most times Ai doesn't wear things that have any sort of design on them, but sometimes he'll wear pieces of clothing that have snowflake patterns or patterns that look like swirls of wind. He also tends to wear a lot of mesh and somewhat see through tops.

Birthmarks?: Ai does not posses any birthmarks of any kind, though he does have a scar located on his upper left shoulder blade (back region) that was caused by a crazed ex-fan that stabbed him.

Do they have good self control?: Believe it or not, despite the emotional meltdowns he has pretty often, Ai has amazing self-control when it comes down to handles other people's issues and insecurities. It's almost like he becomes a completely different person other than the meek and reserved person know him to be, especially when it comes down to his work as a professional ice skater. When on the ice, Ai becomes almost as cool and collected as the ice he skates upon, letting go of all his worries and instead focuses on all the things he can achieve.

Favorite franchise?: I'm somewhat confused by this question since I'm unsure if it means a franchise like anime and such or what so Imma just answer however I think. To be honest, Ai's favorite franchise would definitely be something to do with figurines of popular or famous ice skaters like himself, though he would also be the type to collect various onamori charms.

Do they re-enact scenarios in the shower?: To be honest, it all depends on what type of scenario had taken place. For example, if Ai perhaps did something wrong that he wishes to forget, no. He would not re-enact any scenarios that had taken place that day due to any possible embarrassment that is affiliated. Though if Ai were to have been in a scenario he enjoyed, such as maybe the person he's in love with speaking with him in a more flirtatious or memorable manner, he would certainly re-enact those and likely fluster himself afterwards.

Do they tell the waiter that their order is wrong?: Certainly not. Due to the fact that Ai likes to avoid any sort of confrontation that could cause conflict, he would just quietly accept whatever was given to him without a second thought.

Stairs or elevator?: Truthfully, Ai enjoys using both the stairs and elevators. He's a very fit person due to all of the intense training he has to do as a professional ice skater so tackling flights of stairs is quite literally nothing to him, but at the same time he also like to simply sit and relax in an elevator after long days of work or fun, especially when he's out and about with his son.

Are they an exaggerator when telling stories?: Sometimes. For example, if something Ai deeps as scary happens, he will most definitely over exaggerate the details of whatever it was that scared him because (while he doesn't mean to) his brain goes into overdrive and just spews out things. Though if it's not anything Ai finds scary or harmful, he won't mix up any details or fabricate new ones by accident from his mind because his head would be a lot more clear.

ᵗᵃᵍᵍᵉᵈ ᵇʸ: @s-talking

ᵗᵃᵍᵍⁱⁿᵍ: @thornicidxs, @casketcat, and @deceitfulintentions

[asgardian--angels]

Have you heard the news about Till yet? Does it ruin the band for you anyhow? I've only found out about it 2 hours ago and I'm pretty stunned :/

Hey sorry for the delay in replying to this! Yes I've been following the various goings-on. I've stayed out of the discussion on it mostly because I really don't care that much - I'm way past the point in my life where I get so attached to bands that any news of 'gasp! Male rock star is shitty to women!' would have me sobbing on the floor. I mean, my favorite band was Korn for many years, enough said lmao.

Having taken in the various perspectives, news sources, and other insights from fans, it's looking very likely that Till did not actually engage in this behavior for the particular circumstance he is being accused of. I'd be surprised if he'd really go so far as to do all of that. There appear to be multiple witnesses that deny the accuser's claims. I don't inherently take sides on this stuff, I just try to judge whatever facts are available. Rammstein is a well-oiled machine with a huge crew that try to regulate their events and make it safe for everyone. That doesn't mean things can't happen, esp when Till has separate afterparties than the rest of the band, but they've been at this for almost 30 years with very few issues.

Is Till shitty to women? Often, and I'd call him a sex addict, and from what I understand in the past several years he hasn't been surrounded with great people outside the band (i.e. his solo stuff) and they've enabled or fed the worse parts of him. He has seemingly cultured an environment around himself - largely separate from the rest of the band, at least at present - where he can engage in his preferred activities. I don't agree morally with a lot of the things he does (hell, I can't stomach most of his solo project music videos), but that's nothing new, because while he may honestly be worse on this front than in the past, he's always been like this.

But in this particular circumstance, I'm inclined to say the media is spiraling this way out of control. I hate the entire culture surrounding rock band afterparties, older men seeking out young groupies, and Rammstein's 'Row 0' antics. I'd like an outcome of this whole thing to be that they stop doing that once and for all, given that the band is in their 50s and for Till, 60s. But even with whatever headspace Till has been in recently, he has a great love and respect for his fellow band members who are like family to him - and I need not expound upon just how monumentally stupid and detrimental it would be for the whole band for him to have done something illegal here. The last time he was arrested (along with Flake) was in 1998 for one of their stage acts - he's been clean otherwise (and that whole thing was idiotic anyway on the part of the MA police), and that is a testament to his carefulness and desire to not impact the band and the lives of the band members. He got pyro certified to design their stage acts and ensure the safety of everyone during their shows after an accident in 1996 - he's a man that shows commitment and perseverance, and he is very intelligent.

This entire thing has had a massive impact on the rest of the band, with some people relating it to the Mutter era where the band was having major disagreements and almost broke up - but there, they got through it stronger with a better understanding of each other and how to work together. I do feel Till is not in a great place mental health-wise, and needs to surround himself with better people re: his entourage and personal&professional friends outside of the band, and his antics in general sometimes cast a poor light on Rammstein. I hope this whole thing forces some re-examination by Till of his lifestyle, because he himself often doesn't seem very happy (without me reading any further into things I know nothing about). I think he's treated women poorly in these environments from a ~just being shitty~ point of view, undoubtedly. But ultimately, I don't think he committed the illegal activities he's been accused of in this instance.

I hate how much of this has become about taking sides, like hashtag 'I stand with Rammstein' or whatever. I don't stand with or against anyone - I think this sucks for the rest of the band being put through this no matter the outcome, I think it will have a lasting impact on the dynamics of the band and their interpersonal relationships, and I'm glad it sheds light on Row 0 and various shitty practices that Rammstein and many bands have engaged in.

Groupies will always exist, and so aging male rockstars will probably always do this sort of stuff - plenty of female fans welcome it, seeing as no one is forced to accept an invitation to an afterparty, and any Rammstein fan who finds themselves in Row 0 knows what it's about. In general, I hear overwhelmingly positive experiences about fans meeting Till and if he was consistently poor-mannered I doubt people would hold good opinions of him. The band's made it clear (via Scheider's recent statement) that any guest is welcome to leave these environments if they're uncomfortable and will be chaperoned by security. They have a huge crew of 100+ people making sure everything runs smoothly. There are changes that I think should be made to separate and/or regulate Till's private parties (or better yet, don't have them), and I personally will never understand going to these parties, but that's just me. Less than great experiences can and do happen at those parties, but that's a far cry from criminal acts. I think Till goes way overboard much of the time esp when left to his own devices, but being a lewd ass is again, not the same as forced coercion.

Personally, I honestly just think this is a shitty way to go out, seeing as the band is taking a hiatus after this tour and I get that nagging feeling we may not see them again for a long time, or ever, at least in terms of new albums or concerts (they do have a dvd coming out in a year or two). Rammstein has always tried to shock people with controversy, but not in ways like this. Various media outlets love to jump on this band, waiting for them to slip up on anything. Even if all charges are cleared, which it's shaping up that they will, much of the damage was done to Till's reputation, with multiple collaborations dropped/promos cancelled. I hope this gives him pause and a chance to re-examine where he's at in life, and that his fellow band members can help him find support where he needs it. Again, I don't defend Till, and I don't deny shitty things may happen at afterparties. But I'm weathered when it comes to rock scandals and I try hard to stay out of the personal lives of band members. So to me whatever happens happens and I just want some lessons to be learned for all involved.

[electricprincess96]

Ep 2 of Season 2 of HOTD was.... disjointed. It felt like just as I was getting into a scene it changed.

Once again we are robbed of girl dad Daemon Targaryen because the show seems to believe he is not allowed to have even one redeeming quality. Baela Targaryen of all people having daddy issues is just wild to me I'm sorry but who are these characters cause they aren't the Daemon and Baela I know. And yes I know Fire and Blood is not a reliable narrator but when all the sources in that book seem to agree that Daemon for all his many faults was at least a decent father to Baela (if not both his daughters) then I don't see why that can't be adapted in the show. Daemon can be all the other horrible things that he is but removing this one trait from him making him so much less interesting.

I don't like how.... weak Rhaenyra seems to be. Also she can't seem to decide if she's sad, vengeful, level headed. Like I do not have a grasp of who this Rhaenyra is the way I did in Season 1.

I see everyone in Team Black minus Jace have already forgotten Luke. 10/11 days of mourning is all you get my sweet boy.

Otto Hightower was the star of this episode (and honestly i liked him in the last one too). Like yes is this whole entire situation almost entirely his fault? Yes. But it was fun watching him realise his family are all idiots and he's unable to control their stupidity. Like Otto was one second away from sailing to Dragonstone and begging Rhaenyra to be Queen that's how much Aegon and Alicent annoyed the crap out of him in this episode. Unfortunately I wouldn't be surprised of we don't see much or any of him for the rest of the season and dare I say that's kinds sad. The collective IQ in the Red Keep has plummeted.

Aegon's pain and mourning was believable and very well portrayed. The issue is they really want me to feel bad for Aegon but these are the same writers that made him a rapist, child molester and fan of watching children fighting in pits (some of them his own bastard children) so like..... I would feel sympathy for him except you've made him a colossal piece of shit and no I won't forget.

Helaena has been able to portray a lot of emotions despite the script giving her very little to do. I thought the funeral scene would be more than it was honestly. Aegon not even speaking to her on the staircase was cold but I think fit the characters well.

Crispy Cole.... if hypocrisy had a face. Him gaslighting Sir Arryk into going to try and kill Rhaenyra to cover up COLE'S mistake of not doing his job cause he was too busy doing Alicent was oh so scummy. Also do we really need to keep ending episodes on Cole and Alicent fucking?

.... I won't talk too much about the Daemon and Rhaenyra scene cause I just don't think it was very good. Like these two can absolutely fight after what Daemon did with Blood and Cheese but it felt like the writer of this episode wanted to retcon their entire relationship into being "oh she never really believed in him or trusted him" which makes the whole scheme last season to get Laenor out the way and allow her to marry Daemon seem really fucking stupid right now and makes Rhaenyra seem incapable of making good decisions regarding her allies if she claims she never even trusted her own King Consort. Like Rhaenyra KNEW who Daemon was before all this, her acting like she didn't somewhat sign up for this when she chose to marry him is dumb. I don't want perfect angel Rhaenyra who does no wrong, Rhaenyra is a Targaryen but she's lacking the fire recently. Like yeah she shouldn't be happy about this but to act like she doesn't hold some responsibility is nonsense. Making both Lucerys' death and now Jaehaeyr's deaths down to "accidents" or miscommunications is merely robbing so many characters of agency in a desire to make them sympathetic and marketable.

But yeah I didn't really like this episode, maybe upon rewatches I'll appreciate it more but overall it wasn't great. Neither ep1 or ep2 have really reached the heights of Season 1 for me so far.

[inavagrant-a]

@scarletooyoroi said:

"Have you seen it too? That lil bridge made of 'something' that swims inside of your Vision?" Today found itself drumming down to a slower tempo. Progress, after all, follows their stride as Mondstadt seems to be glimmering more than the norm after their 'somehow paid volunteer work'. Thoma's attention was drawn to the gem as they returned from their latest mission complete, capturing a view only the wielder of said Vision could drink in.

Where was the beginning and end to this bridge? Exactly where did this helix desire to traverse? Waxing philosophical was a now and between hobby, and in moments like this, he always finds intrigues in Tetsuya's perceptions on life. "I can't find myself believing that it's the work of a god doing this. It's too involved, too personal." So what exactly was he trying to say? The blonde found his face screwed in a touch of wonder until a thought cracks through akin to lightning. There was one idea. "What if a divine nature of our own making slept within us all this time? This strength feels like it beats to the same rhythm of my heart."

Tetsuya disregards this total and complete waste of his time as community service, though he supposes at this point he should grow accustomed with the concept of accountability as much as it pains him so. Truth enough is not so much of a pain, it gives him something to do, actions have consequences after all. Of course Mondstadt wasn't going to take the scuffle between him and Thoma by simply laying down and allowing the two to go at it at their utmost content. They are doing this land a favor, he would say, it is looking much more better than it did before. It should count its blessings. Regardless Tetsuya wasn't one to take such labor work gracefully if only because it feels far too mortal for his own liking, to slave away and wait for it to bear some fruit for the efforts. The wanderer has been keeping to himself this entire time even if perhaps from the corner of his eye he can see that Thoma is contemplating something. He can not say he cares, that's his business... which he voices here moments after, ensnaring Tetsuya's attention.

The wanderer furrows his brows at the subject at hand. Visions is it? Tch.

"... So you're one of those people." It almost sounds like an insult, and if it's taken that way then fine, so be it. Thoma sounds like the traveler and many others quite honestly, the traveler also feels like there's meaning and something intentional behind those who receive visions and the element they resonate with. Why the traveler would think such a crazy thing still goes beyond Tetsuya's mind since in the past he has shown them unashamed so that Gods do not function off any sort of logic and or any sort of intention. It is all at and to their whims, there is never any weight behind it. He would know that best since he too acted in such a manner himself. The pyro user always seemed to have the tendency of getting philosophical over many a things, so it is not that huge of a surprise that he thinks these visions are anything special. He will admit, however, that Thoma is the first person to say that he does not believe these are gifts from Gods. "Seen something?" He asks with a slightly annoyed tint to his eyes. Tetsuya has not seen anything... but he has heard. Tetsuya hears something inside his vision, something he can not really make sense of yet.

It's a small sound, a deaf howl, almost tender in nature and it disgusts him. If Tetsuya bothers to listen intently to it he could swear it is trying to talk to him, trying to communicate with him something it wishes for him to understand, to comprehend and firmly grip. What that thing is, well, it is still a mystery and not something the wanderer ponders upon for too long since to him his vision is more so a source of power. He is like a mountain that will not bend before the wills of the angriest and chilliest of northern winds. "You believe them to not be gifts from the Gods then," the wanderer simplifies if only to spare the ramblings themselves for they are hollow and devoid of meaning. Not worth his time as many things are in this world as of late. He is past his expiration date. "Hah, that's all inside your head." He will now unleash upon the other wisdom worth his while, to release him of what make-believe superstitious belief he has come to conclude for himself on his own. "They're mere sources of power that's all they are." Cursed with divinity or not he's not going to dwell on that detail far too long for it makes him ill, it makes him sick. Besides the idea of a vision being much more personal and in-tune with its chosen vessel rather than it coming from a God is not something Tetsuya finds himself able to believe. How can a mere weak mortal accomplish such a task? Such a thing? He can't fathom it so.

"No need to break your little head over it, Thoma." So he believes, turning his attention to what lies ahead. "They're mere batteries, power for you to use. Don't question it and simply put it to good use." Not like Thoma hasn't already shown that he can accomplish such things with it already. Whatever mystery many believe revolve around visions, they're victims to the sways of fairy tales, how sad.

[bluestsdays]

there’s a lilt of laughter that flows past her lips at his suggestion of sharing the dog house— she’s coherent enough to understand how much of a disaster that could be, but drunk enough to nod her head in agreement anyway. “ you know, i wasn’t planning on sleeping in mine, so we might as well. think we’ll both fit ? ” she teases, although she really couldn’t think of anywhere better to end up, regardless of where it was. how could she, when he’s looking at her like that, saying he missed her ? she doesn’t stand a chance. “ missed you, ” it’s uttered just as quietly, thinking about that last conversation they had, when he admitted he always missed her, just as she did with him. that, meshed with the compliment he bestows upon her, has the blush at her cheeks intensifying, shaking her head as if to shrug it away, trying to ignore the desire to move closer to him. boundaries. a knowing smile crosses her lips, then, tilting her head slightly as she looks at him. “ it’s always pretty obvious to me when there’s something up with you. ” her understanding of him was inherent from the moment they met, as if they had known each other far longer than just mere seconds, more like their entire lives. it only intensified the more time they spent together, days and nights blurring together, basking in the bubble of mutual understanding they shared. “ your jaw gets tight, and you do this thing with your brows that i’ve always thought is really cute, ” she smiles, then, and god, does she wish she could reach out and touch him, run her fingers along exactly where she notices the tension on his face. she won’t, because she knows she shouldn’t— frankly, she knows shouldn’t have said any of that at all, now shifting her gaze away, cheeks aglow. “ not to mention, eden’s barely looked at me or you, and when she does, i think she might be plotting my death, ” she’s not immune to it, hence why she found herself hiding away in here, desperate for some kind of solace away from the lingering tension. “ honestly, i don’t really think either of us have done anything wrong, ” she’s not willing to admit otherwise, at least, not with alcohol on her breath. it didn’t seem fair, though, that they couldn’t even be around one another without it causing an uproar. “ i mean, can we not be friendly to each other ? fletcher acts like if i look at you, i’m cheating, or something, ” and sure, maybe her gaze lingers for a little too long, but she can’t help it— it’s not every day they occupy the same space, in the flesh. it’s then that she brings her glass up to her lips, letting out a soft, almost sad chuckle as she thinks about her dynamic with fletcher, that maybe it's her that's pretending. “ i don’t know, maybe i’m just a shit girlfriend. ” there’s a wave of guilt and insecurity that washes over her then, heaving a soft sigh. “ was i ever ? with you ? ”

despite how awful it is out there, at least he has this, here with her. no longer are they separated by miles between them, subjected to their muffled voices and grainy images through a screen, but rather right here in front of one another. and it doesn’t help, the way he begins to consider that fact— that the only distance between them now was a few steps. a few steps that he once would’ve never hesitated to cross, never would’ve thought twice about, crossing that space between them, looping his arms around her, pressing his lips to any exposed flesh within his reach. but that was the problem, wasn’t it? the very thing that had gotten him here, in the first place. that he had been looking at her for too long, allowing any form of touch between them to linger for too long. and he doesn’t miss her comment, that her and fletcher are good at pretending, but he doesn’t choose to question her any further on it, certain that she didn’t mean to say it aloud, considering how she reacts, afterwards. he’ll make a note of it, however, keep it in his back pocket, if he ever needs to bring it up again, ever needs to remind himself of it, upon seeing them together. “ yeah, me too, ” and of course he means that he’s in trouble with eden, but something tells him that fletcher isn’t happy with him, either, that he never has been, even before they got back into contact, again. “ maybe we could sleep out in the dog house together— pretty sure i’m not really welcome to the room, tonight, ” or, if he was, it was only to continue their argument from earlier, going around and around without any end goal, any solution. either way, it’s spoken with a light chuckle, only quietening when her next words ring through his ears, resulting in a smile softening at his lips. “ happy to see you, too— missed you, ” it isn’t much louder than a whisper, a quiet admission meant for just the two of them. because perhaps he shouldn’t be saying it, but it was true. his amusement grows all the more, as she continues, conscious of the fact that his cheeks have tinted to their own colour of red. teeth sink into his lower lip, as if he physically needs to restrain the smirk that’s threatening to tug there. “ yeah? ” he chuckles. “ you look pretty good too, you know? ” and its purposeful, that pause between what he says next. “ much better than you do, miles and miles away from me, ” a sad truth, only followed by a slight roll of his shoulders, acknowledging what’s been happening, tonight. “ yeah, pretty rough, ” he agrees with a low chuckle, fingertips scratching at the underside of his jaw. “ nothing i can’t handle, but yeah— i don’t really know what i’ve done wrong, ” except if he really thought about it, he probably does. “ is it really fucking obvious? that something’s up? ”

[hawkinsharlot]

How they show affection

This is meant in a romantic context, as if you were dating the characters :)

characters included; jonathan byers, steve harrington, argyle, nancy wheeler, robin buckley, eddie munson, and billy hargrove

cw/tw; slightly suggestive in some parts, nothing explicit, and mentions of weed

Jonathan Byers

Quality time and words of affirmation. He doesn’t have a ton of time to spend one on one with a person, so whenever he does get that time, he’s quick to spend it with his partner. It doesn’t have to be extravagant dates either! He’s completely fine with sitting down together and he does his own thing and you do yours, just together in a comfortable silence. As for the words of affirmation, he’s always been good at comforting people, but he’s never entirely had it done for him. If you wanna make the poor boy melt, tell him how much you love and appreciate him

Steve Harrington

Acts of service and physical affection. It’s no secret that Steve is pretty touchy with whoever he’s dating. He’ll always have an arm around you, be holding your hand, or always surprising you by picking you up whenever he greets you. It definitely doesn’t stop when you two are alone either! He’s practically all over you all of the time. Even when you’re doing something that’s like, super boring to him, he'll still stick around and help you as much as he can. Sometimes, it comes off like he's trying to just whisk you away as fast as he can, but he does have a genuine intention to help you in any way he can.

Argyle

Physical affection and gift giving. Even with friends, Argyle does both of these things to express his fondness for anyone he likes, platonic or romantic. In a romantic sense, that affection is almost always in the form of constant cuddling, kisses, and just being close to you. He's definitely one to greet you with a quick peck, and even gets excited when you lean in first for a kiss. With gift giving, it's normally in the form of weed, honestly. If you don't smoke though, he'd definitely be one to get you random trinkets he comes across and "picked up because it reminded me of you, and then i never put it down, so here you go!"

Nancy Wheeler

Quality time and acts of service. Oh, this poor girl is always so busy, it seems. It's one of the less desirable traits in someone who has their life together and is always planning for the future. Not only does Nancy spend what little free time she has with you, but she’d almost make time for you. She wants to, so she does. She enjoys just sitting in a comfortable silence with you most of the time. Working on school work, reading, drawing, any of it can be done together. And when the work load gets to be too much on your end, Nancy is always there to step in and help take some of the strain off of you.

Robin Buckley

Physical affection and words of affirmation. She’s naturally a more touchy person, even just with friends. Combine this element with a partner and a nervous little lesbian and you get some of the sweetest moments between you two. While you can’t be outwardly a couple in the public, Robin often wants to make up for lost affection when the both of you are finally alone and can love on one another without fearing anything. While she will stutter and stumble over her words, they’re always 100% genuine when she tells you how much she loves you

Eddie Munson

Quality time and physical affection. If you share the same nerdy interests, spending time together comes as naturally as breathing to the both of you. You could spend hours upon hours talking about all the nerd shit between the both of you. He might even ask for you opinions on his campaign he’s planning. All of this wouldn’t come alone though, the entire time, he’d be completely all over you. It’s the little things Eddie does that tends to drive you crazy, like resting his hand on your thigh or putting an arm around you when you’re sitting next to him.

Billy Hargrove

Physical affection. Because of his childhood, Billy doesn’t entirely know how a healthy relationship is supposed to look or feel. It’s not his fault, it’s simply what happened. His way of feeling and giving love is the same, physical affection. He’d spend a lot of time showing off his partner to whoever was looking in his direction. It doesn’t stop when you’re alone either. Honestly? He’s just barely getting started with you when you two are finally alone. Lots of very bold moves coming from his half, but if you ask him to slow down he’ll listen.

[chaostheoryy]

Until the Stars Burn Out [Din Djarin X GN!Reader]

[SPOILER ALERT: this story contains potential spoilers for The Book of Boba Fett season 1 finale.]

Summary: As Din’s only consistent travel companion and right hand man, you’ve come to know the Mandalorian better than anyone in the galaxy. When you’re gunned down during the battle of Mos Espa and find yourself crawling back to consciousness from a dangerous dance with death, you’ll soon find out that maybe you mean just as much to him as he does to you.

Rating: Teen

Warnings: Canon typical violence, mentions of injury and blood, touch-starved Din makes some choice sounds

Word Count: 4K

A/N: The speed at which my brain cranked out this story is inhuman. I’m a huge sucker for a good hurt/comfort, heat-of-the-moment confession so this prompt was barking up all the right trees. Huge shoutout to @catching-up-with-kayla for sending in the request. Hope you enjoy! (As always, no beta. We die like men.)

You were well aware of the risks when you made the decision to join the Mandalorian on his ventures. Sure you had no desire to go out into the lawless realms of the Outer Rim and get yourself blown to pieces by ex-Imps or shady pirates but, hey, seeing just how determined he was to get that little pointy-eared child back to his kin made easy to justify the danger. If your skills as a marksman could help in any way, shape, or form, you had to jump in.

So you did. No questions asked.

You aided him through everything, from the destruction of the Imperial outpost on Nevarro and the infiltration of the Morak rhydonium refinery to the final showdown aboard Moff Gideon’s cruiser. Wherever Din Djarin went, you followed in his shadows and protected him with the same devotion and respect that Fennec Shand showed Boba Fett.

You were there when Din removed his helmet to say goodbye to Grogu. It was the first time you’d ever laid eyes upon his face, a rare moment that you honestly had never even considered as a possibility. The implications of the decision weren’t lost on you: Din cared so much about this child that he would break the rules of his creed just to give the kid one opportunity to gaze upon the face of the man that had risked everything for him. Surely there wasn’t a single selfless act carried out in the history of the galaxy that could match what you had seen.

When the Jedi master, Skywalker, left with Grogu, Din had remained standing there with his eyes on the door. It was easy to see just how overwhelmed he was. He wanted to be happy, wanted to feel as though he succeeded in the most important mission of his life. But, despite all the reasons he had to celebrate, all he seemed to feel was unbearable sadness. His most beloved person was gone and he was lost. What was he supposed to do now? Who was he if he was no longer the Mandalorian that carried the tiny green youngling in his arms?

That was the day your mission became clear. You weren’t just the helping hand that aided in the delivery of the child. You were going to be the one to guide Din Djarin back to himself.

With Gideon secured and Grogu long gone, he’d placed his helmet back on his head and turned to offer you passage back to your homeworld. You declined immediately. You weren’t going anywhere until you knew for a fact that he would be fine without you. Nothing he said or did could ever have come close to changing your mind.

And so you remained, watching over him as he trained to use the Darksaber and returned to Tatooine in search of a new transport. It was there in the deserts of the Jundland Wastes that he started to find himself again. He offered his service credit-free to Boba Fett and ventured out to Mos Pelgo in the hopes of recruiting Cobb Vanth’s rugged, faithful villagers into joining the battle. With a clear mission and the determination to help rid Mos Espa of senseless violence, the strong-willed Din Djarin that you knew and loved came crawling back to the surface.

***

“Thank you,” Din said suddenly, breaking the silence of the room where you, Din, Boba, and Fennec were anxiously awaiting the Pyke attack, “For everything.”

You couldn’t help the utter surprise that yanked your brow skyward. His words lingered for a moment as you replayed them a few times in your head. It wasn’t the first time he’d expressed his appreciation to you but something about it felt strange. It was so unprompted, so pointed that it almost felt as if…

“Don’t start saying stuff like that,” you warned him, “Not here.”

Fennec glanced your way. “What are you talking about?”

Knowing fully well that your words would answer her question, you didn’t address Fennec directly. Instead, you narrowed your eyes at the helmeted man across the way as you tightened your grip on your rifle.

“This isn’t the end, Din. Not for any of us.”

“Maybe not,” he replied, “But even so, it deserves to be said.”

Something caught in your throat. His voice was quiet, his words carefully chosen to mask whatever fear and doubt he had about the fight. You knew that he was prepared for the worst. If it came down to giving his life to finish this job, he’d do it without hesitation.

You wanted to say something, to reassure him that you would all make it out alive or, at the very least, tease him for going soft, but you couldn’t bring yourself to do it. Words failed you in that moment. All you could do was hope that the look in your eyes told him just how much he meant to you and pray that, somehow, he understood the reason you’d chosen to stay long after Grogu was delivered to safety.

Boba’s voice tore through the veil of tension before either of you could say anything else on the matter.

“Prepare yourselves. They’re here.”

What ensued after the initial wave of Pyke foot soldiers was a brand of chaos unlike anything you’d ever witnessed. The people of Freetown arrived in the knick of time only to be pinned down by a pair of Scorpenek annihilator droids. Din had taken a few hits in the crossfire but remained relatively unscathed thanks to Boba’s brute resilience and your keen eye. You’d easily picked off several Pykes before they could land a shot but the massive, moving weapons that crawled towards the front lines was beyond anything your skillset as a marksman could handle.

As much as you hated it, splitting off to draw one of the droids elsewhere was the only solid plan anyone had to prevent total destruction. Din and Boba were to tackle one droid while you led the Mods and the Freetown fighters in a battle against the other. You knew it was your best bet at getting everyone out of the scuffle with as little casualties as possible but the logistics of the move didn’t rid your tongue of the rancid taste that came with the realization that Din would be without you for a spell.

Before he could dip out from the cover of the Freetown skiff, you grabbed Din’s arm and pulled him closer to you. Blaster fire rang in your ears and made it difficult for either of you to hear but you needed to say it, needed him to know that this couldn’t be the end of the line.

“I know things have been tough without the kid but you need to be careful. I—“ You pause, ducking your head as chunks of the wall behind you crumbled to the ground. “I don’t want to leave this planet without you. Hell, I don’t want to leave any planet without you. So please just…Just come back to me, alright?”

He stared at you for a moment. While it was impossible to see his face through the helmet, you had become so familiar with his body language that every little twitch and tilt of the head told you exactly what you needed to know. It was clear that your words had floored him. He knew the implications, knew just how much you cared for him. While the exact words never left your mouth, it was undeniably obvious that you were saying one simple thing: I love you.

Din laid his hand over yours, gently squeezing it in his glove. “Only if you promise to do the same.”

With a smile, you leaned forward and pressed your forehead to his helmet. It was the first time you’d ever really worn your heart on your sleeve. The two of you had been through so much. You’d seen each other at your worst and spent day after day learning what made each other tick. In a way, the two of you were completely joined at the hip and yet you’d always managed to keep your affections tucked away in the back of your mind out of respect. The vulnerability you showed in that moment was, without a doubt, a long time coming.

“This is the way,” you murmured.

You heard him let out a soft breath as he pressed his head forward to reciprocate the contact and assure you he was truly on the same page.

“This is the way.”

**

Unbeknownst to Din, things went to shit in record time after you split off. Your group managed to draw one of the droids to a different part of town but soon realized that you were all in over your heads. Within minutes, the beast of a machine had you pinned down behind a wall. Pyke snipers were perched on the rooftops nearby as well, adding yet another inconvenience to your ever growing shit-list of problems. Could this Tatooine excursion get any worse?

Actually, yeah. And it did.

After Drash took one of the Freetown fighters with her to offer counter-fire against the Pyke snipers, one of the enemy marksman managed to find a weak-spot in the foundation keeping you and your allies sheltered from the spray of blaster fire. None of you saw him until it was too late. A single shot from his rifle ripped right through the wall and struck you in the side, knocking you into the sand with a agonized shout.

Pain surged through your body like fire, igniting every nerve ending in your abdomen with a single spark. As two of the Freetown villagers pulled you to safety, you tried desperately to stay awake. You could feel consciousness slipping away, your eyes growing far too heavy as the searing pain in your side overwhelmed your body. Sure enough, your awareness of the hands on your torso started to fade and the battle around you went quiet as you tumbled into darkness.

***

The first thing you heard when you started to regain consciousness was the terrifying shriek of a rancor. It echoed from somewhere far off in the distance, slowly drawing you back to awareness. With a weak groan, you tried to sit up only to have the sharp sting of your wound ripple through your body.

Drash’s gentle hand guided you back down, her other palm pressing a rag firmly against the wound just above your left hip. “Take it easy,” she said quietly, “Straining yourself right now will only make things worse.”

Awareness returning alongside your discomfort, you quickly became aware of the lack of the Mandalorian’s presence. You were safely tucked away in one of the many abandoned homes of Mos Espa with Drash tending to your wound. Finding strength and keeping yourself alive should have been your focus but all you could think about the second your brain was capable of controlling its own thoughts again was whether or not Din Djarin was okay.

“The Mandalorian…Din…Is he…”

Drash nodded. “He’s fine. He’s helping the daimyo wrangle his rancor. I’m sure he’ll be here soon, don’t worry.”

You wanted to ask questions, to figure out what the hell happened after you fell in the fight but you couldn’t find the strength. Everything hurt and nothing Drash could do with what little skill and supply she had was going to ease your pain. All you could do was breathe.

After a while, exhaustion started to take hold of you again. You could feel your body caving in to the temptation to shut itself down and sleep away the pain. But before you could be seduced by sleep’s call, you heard an all too familiar voice call your name.

You and Drash looked over at the doorway just in time to watch Din’s shiny silver figure come rushing inside. There were some scuff marks on his beskar plates and a few tears in the fabric of the clothes beneath them but, all in all, he seemed perfectly fine. A sigh of relief crawled its way out of your chest. Drash was right; he was okay.

As soon as he crossed the room to take his place at your side, you could feel the panic radiating from his body. His breathing was fast, not just from the exertion that came with battle but from the unbearable weight of fear that had settled upon him as well.

You smiled up at his masked visage as he took your hand between both of his. “I’m glad you’re okay,” you managed to say quietly, “I was worried about you…”

“As I was worried about you...I’m fine. Just a few scratches and bruises. Nothing I haven’t dealt with before.”

“The galaxy does prefer to pay people in pain over credits.”

Din didn’t laugh at your joke. His gaze wandered down to your waist where a hole had been singed into your shirt from the blaster shot. Thankfully for both of you, Drash’s attention to the wound was preventing either of you from seeing the extent of the damage inflicted on your flesh.

“Hey…”

His helmet turned towards you once again at the sound of your voice.

“I’m gonna be okay,” you murmured, “I told you, this isn’t the end…Not by far.”

He squeezed your hand tightly between his fingers. There was an air of tension surrounding him. The fight was over but every muscle in his body was so taut and knotted that you thought he’d snap.

“Will you give us a moment?” Din’s voice said suddenly. “If it’s safe.”

Drash was clearly surprised by the request. She studied him briefly, trying to understand his intentions or, at the very least, interpret what emotions he was feeling. Her studies, of course, gave her nothing. With a nod, she eased her hands away from your side.

“The bleeding’s stopped,” she informed the two of you, “Just make sure it remains covered, okay?”

“Of course,” Din replied.

You watched as Drash headed for the door. There was still some concern in her face at the thought of leaving your wound unattended but she knew better than to argue. If Din Djarin asked something of you, it was in your best interest to oblige him.

Once Drash was gone and the curtain in the doorway had draped down to conceal you both from the bright, sandy world outside, he released your hand from his grip and reached up to take hold of his helmet. Your eyes widened, your brain catching onto what he was doing before you even heard the gentle hiss of pressurized air being released from its confinements. Sure enough, he eased his helmet off and gently placed it on the floor by his feet.

Something malfunctioned in your lungs. Your breath caught, heart skipping a beat as you found yourself gazing upon Din’s face for the first time since Gideon’s ship. That time it was all so brief and clouded by sorrow that you had barely caught a single glimpse of his features. But this time you could see everything from the fine hairs sprinkled across his upper lip and chin to the gentle brown eyes that, under the right light, you could tell would glisten with speckles of aurodium. In all honesty, even with his hair flattened and mussed up from wearing the helmet, he was the most handsome man you’d ever seen.

Taking your hand in his again, he sat down next to you, the proximity of his body providing much needed comfort.

“I should have been here,” he murmured, eyes coated with guilt, “I never should have split off. Not from you.”

His voice sounded so pained, bordering between a sad whisper and choked growl of frustration. Somewhere beneath that head of curly brown hair, his brain was telling him that your pain was his responsibility.

You immediately shook your head. “We did the right thing. You know that. Boba never would have succeeded without you and the Mods and Freetown villagers needed my help out here. My blood is not on your hands, Din.”

Your argument did little to ease the pressure in his chest but he elected not to argue. Instead he brought your hand up to his mouth and dusted gentle kisses over each knuckle. With the scruff of his facial hair bristling against your fingers and the warmth of his supple lips caressing your skin, you couldn’t help but blush. Never before had he shown such affection to another person. This was a level of intimacy no one else but you had ever been lucky enough to experience.

Closing his eyes, he held the back of your hand flush against his mouth. His brow furrowed with unadulterated agony. “I don’t know what I would have done if you…” A soft exhale of hot air danced over your skin as he trembled at whatever ghastly images he saw in his head. “I don’t want to do anything without you.”

His words wrapped around your heart and squeezed with the might of a rabid jotaz. Any doubt you had about his feelings towards you was dumped from your mind instantly. The guilt, the fear, and the relief that had taken hold of him made things very clear: Din loved you. And, Maker, did you love him too.

You twisted your wrist to ease your hand from beneath his lips. Palm cupped against his scruffy cheek, your fingers splayed out while your thumb began rubbing the soft skin at his cheekbone. He still clung to you in desperation, fingers wrapping tightly around your wrist as he settled for pressing kisses to the butt of your palm.

“Look at me,” you said softly.

His eyes opened and you once again found yourself gazing into their dark yet welcoming pools.

“You’re not doing anything without me. I promise you that. No matter what happens, no matter where you decide to go, I’m with you until every last star in this galaxy burns out.”

“This is the way,” he murmured.

You cracked a tiny, reaffirming smile. “This is the way.”

Without another word, Din released one of his hands from your wrist and reached out to caress your face the same way you were holding his. Then, after a few experimental strokes of his gloved thumb over your cheek, he leaned over and pressed his lips to your forehead.

A lump caught in your throat at the tenderness of the action. How someone so powerful and resilient could be so incredibly tender and loving was beyond your understanding. The Force worked in mysterious ways, but not as mysteriously as Din Djarin.

Tilting your head back slightly, you nudged the bottom of his jaw with your nose, coaxing him down to eye level again. You shared a long, silent glance, one that said more about what was going on in your heads than any number of words could express. When your eyes finally flicked down to his lips and you gave the tiniest nod, his Adam’s apple bobbed with an anxious swallow. You knew he was terrified, knew that there was always a certain level of risk that came with crossing that invisible boundary between friendship and something more. But, above all else, you knew that making the leap was what you both wanted.

Still holding each other’s faces in careful, battle-hardened hands, the space between your mouths was completely eliminated. Small hairs tickled your skin as his lips finally found their way to yours. It was a tentative kiss at first, no doubt due to his inexperience and worry. However, when you started to push back and hummed encouragingly against his lips, he found just enough confidence to lean into it.

Suddenly, the tip of Din’s tongue swiped along your bottom lip and you welcomed it in with a deep inhale. As you explored each other’s mouths and experimented with different angles and pressures, your hand slid up his jaw and into his hair. Long, dark locks swallowed your finger tips. Even after fighting an exhausting battle in the blistering Tatooine heat, his hair had managed to remain delightfully soft to the touch. You couldn’t help yourself; you had to feel more.

While his hand remained holding you in place, you tangled your fingertips deeper into the hair at the base of his skull. Your nails gently dragged up his scalp, drawing pleasant hums from your partner. He was enjoying everything about this, from the taste of your tongue and the ghost your breath on his lips to the fingers toying with his hair. It was likely the first time in his entire life that he’d experienced something so intimate. You could only imagine how touch-starved he had to have been.

Too consumed by your need for more, you didn’t think twice before grasping some of those beautiful brown locks between your fingers and giving them a quick tug. The sound that slipped from his throat in response was an enticing mix between a breathless whine and a rumbling moan. You’d never heard anything so innocent yet sexy in your entire life.

As soon as it came out of his mouth, Din pulled back, cheeks flushing a deep shade of crimson. He looked mortified, more than likely shocked that he was even capable of producing such a sound.

“I’m sorry,” he muttered, “I didn’t mean to…It just—“

You cut him off by stealing a gentle kiss, thumb rubbing at his jaw. “It’s okay…I want to hear you to know what you’re feeling. I know you’re used to being Mr. Quiet but trust me, those sounds are good.”

“Okay…” He exhaled with relief at your reassurance and pressed his lips to your wrist again.

With a lopsided grin, you ran the pad of your thumb over his bottom lip. His jaw went slack. The way he trusted you to touch him in ways no one else had and heeded every piece of advice you could offer was an unbelievably important gift to receive. It was clear that, no matter what you told him to do, he would do it without question.

“Maker, you’re so beautiful,” you sighed as you watched him kissed your palm along the curve between your thumb and index finger, “I would have loved you regardless of what was under that helmet but you…You’re just breathtaking.”

There was a sheepish look on his face. Clearly the man wasn’t used to compliments, especially ones that had to do with the gentle visage he kept hidden beneath the beskar.

“When you’re…” He hesitated, searching in dark, unexplored caverns to find the words he wanted to use, “After you’ve healed, I’d like to give you more. If that’s what you wanted.”

You raised your brow. He wasn’t talking about credits, that was for certain. No, Din was talking about touch, about love. Kisses and gentle caresses weren’t all he wanted to share with you; he wanted to give you everything. Parts of his body that were unseen and untouched would be yours to treasure. You were pretty sure there wasn’t anything someone else could have said that matched the all-encompassing devotion of his offer.

“Yes…Of course, I do. There’s nothing I would want more.”

His lips curled into a shy, boyish smile as he soaked in the validation of your acceptance. Baring his soul to you like this only to have you welcome and cherish it every step of the way was truly all he could ask for. Whether he had spent much time considering rejection or not, it was obvious that having you say yes was a relief no known word in the galaxy could describe.

Leaning down to kiss you again, Din hummed contently against your lips. “I love you.”

Under different circumstances, those three words alone would have made your knees buckle. He uttered them with such honesty and vulnerability that it almost made you sick with affection. That phrase came straight from his heart and was laced with a flavor of sweet, selfless devotion that no other man could have possibly offered. When he said it, he meant it with every fiber of his being. And when you pressed your forehead to his and whispered, “I love you too,” the words held just as much weight. Wherever Din Djarin went, you would follow.

“Until the stars burn out.”