#he lets sybill try out designs on them

[enbysiriusblack]

"I think your boyfriend's jealous", Sybill grinned around the joint.

Remus turned to where Sirius sat with Peter and James, the three trying to climb up a tree to get James' jacket that he had chucked up there earlier; but Sirius, halfway up the tree, was instead staring right at Remus and Sybill.

"They're not my boyfriend", Remus muttered, holding back a grin as Sirius lost their grip and fell to the ground, right on top of Peter.

Sybill huffed out a cloud of smoke and leaned face to face with Remus, "I have the sight."

"So do I."

She quirked an eyebrow in question.

Remus moved even closer to her, stealing her joint and taking a blow, "James is going to come running over here yelling that Peter threw his shoe at him, and then will eye the weed and start pretending to madly cough while Sirius uses the opportunity to throw their own shoe, in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1-"

At that moment James came running over, "Remus! Remus help me! Pete threw his shoe at me and I think my heads bleeding!"

Remus gave a smug smile to Sybill just as James' eyes narrowed in on the fag between Remus's lips.

"Oh Merlin, Moony!", he said between dramatic coughs, "It's burning my lungs, think about what it must be doing to you!"

He carried on coughing, heavier and heavier until a black boot got thrown at his head. Sirius burst out in laughter behind him.

Sybill lightly pushed away Remus' head, "That is called spending too much time together, not having the sight."

Remus shrugged and grabbed his stick, starting to stand up, "come on then Prongs, let's get you checked by Pomfrey."

Sybill grabbed his palm and stared at it for a moment before solemnly shaking her head and letting go.

Remus just laughed and passed her his already rolled up joint before helping the others help James up.

He waved to Sybill, "Happy birthday!"

"Thank you for the present, even though you smoked most of it", she leaned back.

Remus grinned again, pulling an irritated Sirius by the sleeve who immediately perked up as Remus switched his attention to them.

Sybill shuffled for her lighter, when Pandora Lovegood sat right in front of her, lighter in hand.

She eyed the lighter, a sleek black fancy dupont.

She leaned forwards as Pandora flicked it open, "That yours?"

Pandora held back a laugh, "absolutely not. I stole it from Regulus. Though he never smokes so I'm a little worried what he uses it for. But who am I to judge if he likes lighting things on fire, as long as it's not a person or something."

Sybill smiled.

Pandora reached into her crocheted bag, "I got you something, I saw it in this tiny little shop near Cas'."

She pulled out another bag, made of a wool material but the small handle was wooden. A design of flowers and random patterns littered across it.

Sybill grinned, "I love it."

"Wait- don't open it! Em's present inside, she'll be here soon, her class is probably running late."

At that moment, Emmeline Vance came running over, running backwards while finishing a conversation with Mary that only stopped once the two were so far away from each other that they could no longer hear the other.

"Happy Birthday!" Emmeline grinned, sitting down, "Oh, open the bag! Open the bag!"

Sybill opened it, pulling out a packet of tarot cards and a silver box that held a crystal ball inside.

"Now I can tell you your future", Sybill said, already opening the tarot cards.

"Can you do that while high?" Pandora asked, leaning over to kiss Sybill, mouthful of smoke.

"You can do anything while high", Sybill answered after a moment.

Emmeline laughed, before getting distracted by the small flame erupting everytime Pandora flicked the lighter, over and over.

"Want to read my future?", Emmeline said, still mesmerised by the fire.

Sybill grabbed her face, turning her head to face her, "No. I just want to be here at the moment. The future can wait."

She knew they wouldn't have long together. But there was now. And that had to be enough.

[gingergcnius]

WAIT I JUST REALIZED

QUIRINUS HAD THE PERFECT LONG , SHARP NAILS IN THE SCENE WHERE HARRY CONFRONTED HIM . HE WAS EVEN CAREFUL UNWRAPPING HIS TURBAN .

HC that he likes having long nails

[alltheprettyboys]

FAMOUS LADY VIOLET QUOTES

On romance

“I do think a woman’s place is eventually in the home, but I see no harm in her having some fun before she gets there.”

“In my day, a lady was incapable of feeling physical attraction until she had been instructed to do so by her mama.”

“Every woman goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.”

“I am not a romantic. But even I will concede that the heart does not exist solely for the purpose of pumping blood.”

“I know several couples who are perfectly happy. Haven’t spoken in years.”

Mary: “I was only going to say that Sybil is entitled to her opinions.” Violet: “No, she isn’t, until she is married. And then her husband will tell her what her opinions are.”

“Every woman goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.”

“Oh, I should steer clear of May. Marry in May, rue the day.”

“Give him a date for when Mary’s out of mourning. No one wants to kiss a girl in black.”

“My dear, love is a far more dangerous motive than dislike.”

On technology and change

“First electricity, now telephones. Sometimes I feel as if I were living in an H.G. Wells novel.”

“What is a weekend?”

[On the new telephone] “Is this an instrument of communication or torture?”

[On jazz musicians] “Do you think that any of them know what the others are playing?”

On life

“Life is a game, where the player must appear ridiculous.”

“No life appears rewarding if you think about it too much.”

“Hope is a tease, designed to prevent us accepting reality.”

Carson: “Hard work and diligence weigh more than beauty in the real world.” Violet: “If only that were true.”

Isobel: “How you hate to be wrong.” Violet: “I wouldn’t know, I’m not familiar with the sensation.”

On growing old

“Just because you’re an old widow, I see no necessity to eat off a tray.”

“At my age, one must ration one’s excitement.”

“All life is a series of problems which we must try and solve, first one and then the next and then the next, until at last we die.”

On social etiquette

Violet: “I’m afraid Tom’s small talk is very small indeed.” Robert: “Not everyone can be Oscar Wilde.” Violet: “What a relief.”

“Vulgarity is no substitute for wit.”

“Principles are like prayers; noble, of course, but awkward at a party.”

“You know me: never complain, never explain.”

On Americans

“Why does every day involve a fight with an American?”

Cora: “I might send her over to visit my aunt. She could get to know New York.” Violet: “Oh, I don’t think things are quite that desperate.”

[To Cora] “I’m so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I’m with her, I’m reminded of the virtues of the English.”

Cora: “I hope I don’t hear sounds of a disagreement.” Violet: “Is that what they call discussion in New York?”

“Try not to let those Yankees drive you mad.”

On class

“Don’t be defeatist, dear. It is very middle class.”

“The presence of strangers is our only guarantee of good behaviour.”

“Edith, you are a Lady, not Toad of Toad Hall.”

Isobel: “Servants are human beings too.” Violet: “Yes. But preferably only on their days off.”

“Nothing succeeds like excess.”

Martha: “I have no wish to be a Great Lady.” Violet: “No, a decision that must be reinforced whenever you look in the glass.”

On the English

“Last night, he looked so well. Of course it would happen to a foreigner. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else’s house.”

“If I were to search for logic, I would not look for it among the English upper class.”

“Rosamund has no interest in French. If she wishes to be understood by a foreigner, she shouts.”

On dealing with other people

“An unlucky friend is tiresome enough, an unlucky acquaintance is intolerable.”

Isobel: “You take everything as a compliment.” Violet: “I advise you to do the same, it saves many an awkward moment.”

Robert: “I thought you didn’t like him.” Violet: “So what? I have plenty of friends I don’t like.”

Isobel: “I suspect she’s quite a tough nut.” Violet: “And I’m quite a tough nutcracker.”

“I don’t dislike him. I just don’t like him, which is quite different.”

“I do hope I’m interrupting something…”

“You’re a woman with a brain and reasonable ability. Stop whining and find something to do.”

“There’s nothing simpler than avoiding people you don’t like. Avoiding one’s friends, that’s the real test.”

“No guest should be admitted without the date of their departure settled.”

Cora: “I take that as a compliment.” Violet: “I must have said it wrong.”

[lee-scribbles-and-doodles]

S3 ep5

Current emotional status: FEAR

Cthulu Max has been on the rampage for a whole week!?

Ew, the narrator

Oh man, are they sending the airforce after him?

I really like Cthulu Max's design

Momma Bosco 💗

Oh hey, Norrington and Papierwaite are alive.

Superball are you saying you tried to send the Maimtrons up Max's--

Also he's acting president while Max is... deposed of.

Superball is only giving Sam until 6am :(

Featherly!

"Wandering around the moleman tunnels is no fun without Max."

"You got it all wrong, we're trying to help Max." "We will help him... to a generous serving of ass whooping."

"That is one rabbit who will be multiplied... into 2,000 smoldering pieces."

Carol ran off with Blustet

"I only want her to be happy, is all." Aw, Curt

Superball just admitted to having separation anxiety from Max

Ok Momma can't come but Papierwaite and Norringron can.

I like Norrington :)

GASP

Is it?

It is!

SYBIL!!!!

RETURN OF THE QUEEN

Oh, she is very pregnant

She was a wizard at one point?

She's gonna help!

Superball there's no such thing as acceptable losses

Abe has his body back

"Four score and seven tons of raw power"

HE CAN FLY NOW!?

Sybil, I love you, but why did you mod someone else's car???

Grandpa Stinky I love you

Oh, he just handed us the recipe for once.

Asdfff the spore maxes swarming Grandpa

They stole Grandpa's hotdogs

"We must feed the host! Piglets and sphinkters make us stronger!" "We regret nothing!"

Grandpa hasn't slept in three years

Sam just casually taking the last of Grandpa's corndogs

The spores are trying to get it

Lol Sam slapped them

Sal's alive!

He's hiding from Sam :(

Lol we can control Cthulu Max with Corndogs

Ew, the cornstarch got mixed in with the giant puddle 🤢 Looks gross

Love how Sybil completely ignores the Flaming Max head

Also the look of disappointment on the spore's face made me laugh

Fifth trimester???

The way the one Max spore by Grandpa's truck is bobbing in circles with his mouth open is making me laugh.

Sam showing concern for Sybil because she’s preggers 🥺

Her being pregnant with Abe's child implies that statues have working genital in this universe

She put a weiner scented airfreshener in the desoto

At least Sam and a Max spore seem to like that (of course they do)

"Sybil you're the best!" Hell yeah she is!

Sam's mind went to the color bar codes to prevent being traumatized by Sybil's oversharing

We drowned the desoto

Asdfgh Sam just botched slapped one of the spores for trying to say "that's none of your damn buisness."

Ew, Max's spine is pointing out

Oh hey, Satan and Jurgen

Why is Jurgen wearing his old fashioned clothes instead of his emo clothes?

Lol Sam snuck into frame to shout "Go Mets! New York rules!"

"--besides it's just a good and noble thing to do." "You're not familiar with my previous work, are you?"

"Sam, what happened to you to make you so cynical?" Gee, Jurgen, I wonder what could have possibly happened.

Oh so the water tower counts as vegetable oil because Momma did something to it

Pfft we can replace Satan's microphone with a corndog

Omg they jumped off the building to avoid Max

Oh, they're fine, and the oil is in the giant puddle.

I'm thankful to Featherly for giving us an egg but I'd have preferred not to watch him lay it. Granted it was just in a cartoon way but he still made weird noises

Also TRANS FEATHERLY 2021

"I desperately wanted to see that, sir. Ask him if he'll lay another one."

Oh hey, the Flaming Max heads helped heat up the giant desoto corndog

Since I'm playing this in 2021 the Maimtron's song references are super dated, which defeats Superball's efforts

Oooh! A unique opening sequence???

Oh this music is jazzy af

Sam really doesn't like the Max spores

Sam how do you already know what Max's insides look like???

"Even when he's not a collasal monster Max's food comas can last for weeks."

Ok we wake Max up with the coffee beans, right?

Yup!

The gi Max spore is so sad he doesn't get to come 😢

"But I'm a horrible monster!"

"I suppose Max's brain always looks like a living room?" "Well, Max is host to all kinds of weird parasites, and he likes to he a good host!" WHAT

No really, this brings up so many questions about lagomorphs. Are they some kind of Symbiote or something?

And a previous episode confirmed Max is amphibious

Max has tumors!!!

It shocked Sam!

"Eugh! Get away fake Max!" "Do you find my warmth... alarming, Sam?"

"What do nightmares taste like, anyway?" "Pepsi"

Max wants to be author 💗

He also writes fanfiction about Flint 🤣

I'd unironically read his books.

Tina Belcher voice: Friend fiction

Max has an experimental fusion jazz band???

"He just killed a great white shark--"

Max being completely unable to describe a woman is very gay of him. Good for him.

Max's brain teleported everyone to different parts of the body.

Found Sybil in the gym/legs

The brain is broadcasting Sam's thoughts???

Sam couldn't think of a joke for the medicine balls :(

"Wow Max is looking pretty buff. Would it be too weird if I asked him to turn around?"

Sam! Stop thinking bad things about Sybil's pregnancy she can hear you you putz!

She's upset with him now

"Can you believe this guy?" "I find the entire situation to be very contrived and misogynistic." Same spore Max, same.

Sam stop being so mean omg!

"I changed Sybil, I totally get the whole parenthood thing now." "Really now?" "Tax deductions."

In Max's inventory now

Y'know, I never really thought about it as a storage house

Hit The Road reference :3

Baby roach hatched in

"Pa..papa?" "Now I am little champion, now I am!"

Max has a Maximus shrine

Sam turned into a roomba!

Aw, he named it Sam Jr 🥺

We won Sybil back through his love of Sam Jr

Found the conjoined twins

Huh, Max lost as eye. Does that mean he has a glass one, or do lagomorphs have regenerative abilities?

Pfft we have to play twister to control his arma

The brain is messing with things again

Oh, we need a roach to operate the game because of radiation

Well, let's kidnap Sal

Oh, poor Girl Stinky. She's really going through it

Aw, Sal feels bad

Sal?

Honey, are alright?

He's dying???

He's not immune to irradiation!?

Oh no, he's gone

I'm so sad 😞

Gotta pick up Sam Jr. Before I control Max

They mad Max do a magical girl pose

Ugh the narrator is back

Wait, what?

He's Max's brain??? SUPEREGO???

WHAT

"I was always ignored" Yo if my super ego was as pretentious as you I 'd ignore it too 😤

He wants to kill himself and Max???

I know Max had a self loathing complex but holy shit

The super ego is perfectly fine with destroying half the east coast what a jerk

Just noticed Sam's tie is red. Had no idea about this while drawing PI!Sam lol

We have to help Max get his memories back to use the ASTRO projector

Skunkapes has three Sam clones imprisoned

Sam had canon ocd?

Gasp Gordon???

No, it's Sammun Mak

I love him, little child tyrant

Just make him a mobile brain in a jar and let Sam and Max adopt him

Why is Grandpa here?

He isn't talking like Stinky

Too polite

Sam sees it too

He's a space gorilla

They switched brains?

Found the cloning g chamber

Let's go to Momma's first

CONE OF SHAME CONE OF SHAME CONE OF SHAME

Superball is "wracked with guilt"

"Keep it together Superball. Sam will be able to save the day. He always does."

Ok, let's go to the cloning facility

I'm still thinking about poor Sal yo

FLIIIIIINT!

He's punching space apes!

Girl Stinky really playing up the evil Mistress role

The doggleganger has a bomb on him!!!

Wait so Girl really is a mermaid??? I thought that was just her aestetic

God I love Flint

Haha we tricked Skunkape with scooby doo villain tactics

Got the robot

Her water broke... and it was pennies

Max wants to save Sybil! 😭🥺💕

Super Ego is here

Oh now he wants to save Max

The only thing here are those records

Super Ego waved goodbye

Cthulu Max is cute when he cries

Wait What?

His head is on fire!

The maimtron hit him!

He waved goodbye... and teleported away.

He exploaded!!!!

He promised he'd take Sam with him and he didn't!!!!

AAAAAAH

I thought the dead Max thing was popular angst fanon fic thingy!

We're cloning Max?

It didn't work 😭😭😭😭😭

Superball ran off crying

Oh God the credits are just Sam walking sadly what the hell

He's not even stopping to fight any crime 😢

💔💔💔

God the way he's clinging to himself

What?

The elevator???

MAAAAX

he's back???

Past Max???

He blew his Sam up???

Wait hold on I'm glad they're together again but this doesn't fix anything

There's so much trauma from this season

All the horrible things that happened during 301-304 happened in like 3 days tops, then Sam had to deal with Max being a monster for a week before watching him die!

And the new (?) Max had BLOW HIS SAM UP!!!

And they left the franchise like that for a decade????

What the hell?

I want to be happy but this shit is going to consume my brain for the next week at least what the hell

Aaaaaaah!

Like maybe they really do just brush it off but it feels unlikely

I know Max has a connection with his other selves so it'll be easier for him to adjust but certainly Sam is going to notice the discrepancies since he doesn't get the same deal

Someone told me there were multiple endings hold on

Aw, they walked off into the sunrise together

But still

AAAAAAAAH

[thewatercolours]

Ahahhaaaaa your tuuurn

i don't know what putting it under a readmore does but i will anyway because i can ramble like no one's business

My favorite fic of yours

All of them? Is that an answer? No, truly, I think my very favorite is that very sweet one of Graham on the battlements wishing on a star, and asking No1 what he would wish for. There's something just so...earnest and yearning about it. And of course a lilting lightheartedness to Graham's playful questioning and No1's sort of terse thoughts about magic and what could happen should such things be voiced. Also, scenes surrounded by glittering starlight just make my heart soar with delight.

The best character you’ve written for

Rosie Cracker. Oh, that perspective flip chapter with her just smiling at her energetic, adorable son and his dreams, and just so carefully talking to him and loving him and being so down to earth...it really painted her as such a real person for me.

The best ship you’ve written for

I don't ship people hardly ever, romance is not something I'm interested in hardly at all (see all the gen art and gen fic with the very rare romantically inclined thing), but the way you write Neese and Graham just absolutely makes me delighted. Valance and Graham in general is one of the few romances I can really appreciate (Sam Vimes and Sybil from Discworld is the only other one that usually comes to mind), and you really just emphasize what I love about those two when you let them banter, twirl, talk. All those masked ball scenes, all those secret smiles, cheerful chatter...I adore them.

Something I remember vividly from reading one of your fics

That masquerade prisoner ball thing will Not get out of my mind. It just lives there. And that curious witch trying to look at Graham's hands. And Mordon using Graham's own words to try and talk to him. And Vee trying to talk to a very apprehensive ice king trying to hide from her. and EVERY spin of you've done so far of fight club, from the kind but still dangerous cabin in the night to the unease of the gambling den, just. lush.

What I like the most about your writing

I've said you get character dialogue to be pretty precise, but I also enjoy the way you describe scenes and just have dialogue in general. I don't know how to express it, but something about it feels very chewy. In a good way, like I could gnaw on your prose. I don't really know how to explain it better; it's just so thick and realistic and fun and lilting and bouncing? It reminds me of the Princess Florinda novella. Something that deserves to be spoken out loud.

A fic i’m excited for you updating/posting

well fiiiic ahem ahem

If i’ve ever shared/talked about your fic to someone else

I must admit, goblin graham has come up in conversations in real life with people who have seen me drawing him. or just wanting to talk about the concept. it, uh, has happened rather a lot with several different people. your stories are delightfully fun to explain. <3

This feels like a great, big, tremendous hug to read through. Thank you for the encouragement. It means so much - you're very kind!

Aw, I am so glad you like "Stargazers!" It only got written because I loved that wonderful art piece you drew of Graham closing his eyes and missing the falling star - it was fun trying to match the atmosphere of it while also trying to scatter a bit of foreshadowing for the big picture story.

Come to think of it, I wrote Rosie the way I did partly because of the way you drew her in that piece of art with her giving Graham his various cloaks through life. There can be so much personality just in character's design, and I piggybacked off of it, putting it together with Graham's personality in Chapter One, which gives hints about what kind of parenting he grew up with.

Neese and Graham are fun to write together, and in my head she's the "real" Valanice simply because it naturally turned out that way first time I played through. But Vee is a more interesting character to write. It would be an interesting experiment to try to infer more about Neese from what we know, give her some serious scenes to expand her character, because it's easy to make her skim the surface. (Canon tends this way, of course, because the princesses have to fit easily into categories in order to make the mechanics of gameplay work - it would be need to see a little more of her humanity that's not as easy to categorize.)

I think the most joy I had from this "ask" was reading the specific things that stood out vividly to you. Each one I felt like pumping my fist.

Ha, you know what? Back in October when I started posting KQ stuff in earnest you compared something I'd written to Princess Floralinda. I was curious enough that I wanted to see what the similarity was, and I made an account to start listening to audiobooks for this purpose, and haven't looked back. We have YOU to blame for my audiobook habit.

Speaking of the Well Fic - and things you're responsible for - I seem to remember that the reason I decided to take the full plunge and get properly involved in the community was because you messaged me a few months after I posted the Well Fic and told me you liked it and would enjoy more. I had just sort of posted it and disappeared. I really do need to write Part 2. (the explanation for what's up with the mirror has changed completely from what I had first envisioned, because of somebody's goblinization - hence the delay.)

I let out a bona fide squeak when you said you'd mentioned Goblin Graham to other people - a good kind of squeak.

[mbrainspaz]

Upsetting things about The Watch BBC— A ‘live-blogged’ List (where I genuinely try not to be picky about the books)

Ep1

- what the holy hellish post-apocalyptic grunge punk garbage?!

- The way Vimes’ face moves and the way he says words

- Carcer???? Keel?????? VIMES?!!!?!?

- 80’s style foam troll costume is a costume, also wtf is that silhouette? God-awful design

- Troll walking sfx sound like an intern bashing their head against a desk

- Vetinari lives in a futuristic concrete parking garage for some reason

- Crime is legal yeah we get it

- Carrot “ 🙄 I’m not a dwarf” Ironfoundersson

- Alchemists are dealing Slab now

- Wait this is still a flashback.

- So yeah Carcer and Vimes were gang buddies

- “you’re the captain now” 😂

- Knurd. SAY KNURD DAMN YOU

- Why... why is Cheery tall

- Vimes is really wearing a metric ton of eyeliner isn’t he

- Magic mirror on the wall who is the dorkiest of them all

- So we’re giving carcer (the insane serial killer) sympathetic motives I guess

- Imps are rather large

- Carrot’s dwarf family dumped him too jeeze

- “never trust an alchemist” ??? Okay??

- Carrot’s emotional moment is making me uncomfortable

- “we come in all sizes down there” uuuuh so there’s literally nothing special about Carrot being such a tall dwarf cool cool cool cool cool cool

- Angua gets locked up to wolf out

- So.... Sybil is trying to undermine vetinari...?

- Are the crime guilds of Ankh-Morpork something this show is trying to resolve????

- Scratch that it seems to be the #1 issue the show is setting out to resolve. Rascim and other meaningful social justice themes who?

- Still a flashback

- Cheery sees ghosts

- Oh so Carcer time traveled to this future and is stock-piling slab. Cool cool cool cool cool coo—

- “what happened to you?!” Uh, you two know each other from somewhere?

- Carrot can’t button a shirt

- Enemies to lovers? Yeah that’s what this needed.

- “‘carcer was kinder to me” I hate this so much

- “slab” “never touch that stuff” no shit ‘cause it’s a TROLL DRUG

- Stop shaking that poor dragon around dear god its neck is broken

- What

- Dragons live in street lamps and Sybil is liberating them

- Sure Vimes you’ve got 1 Minute why not tell Sybil about your deepest personal trauma. What a dork.

- Are those supposed to be goblins or gnolls. Why are they cyborgs

- There’s a desert outside ankh-morpork

- “Arrest me! PLEASE SAM! PLEASE” - Carcer “mm nah” -Vimes

- Aren’t dragons supposed to be like... cat sized? Not just fancy geckos with wings?

- Oh great he found the book. Just sitting there. On the street.

- Honestly I’m on Carcer’s side here lads. Vimes is a rat. I’m siding with the insane serial killer. Yayyyyy

Ep2

- “I saw him fall” — you let him fall my dude. Why

- “did you hear what I said gurl”

- How fast is Detritus suddenly

- They’re shooting arrows at a troll Vimes. A TROLL. you can chill

- Oh wait he’s dead. Arrows. at a troll.

- Wait is Detritus seriously dead

- WTF

- “i can’t believe he’s gone” ME NEITHER BITCH HE WAS A TROLL THAT GOT SHOT WITH ARROWS

- The whole ‘she’s lady ramkin’ bit only works if you know her from the books and then it’s just disappointing

- AAAAAAGH Why is every plot from every book in the watch series happening at once?!?!?

- Just thinking about how Vimes is about 50 years old in The Fifth Elephant. On this timeline he’ll be bout 78.

- How old is Sybil? Maybe 32?

- CARCER summoned the dragon????

- Cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool

- “and you call yourselves The Watch?!” Yes please do not. But also lady, you knew there were 4 of them and you’re basically Batman don’t act surprised.

- “only one virgin I know of”— what from the official virgin registry?!?!

- Also WHAT?! ONE VIRGIN??? IN THE WHOLE CITY?? ? 😂

- Who are these people and why are they meeting on top of a foggy parking garage

- Uh... Mustrum Ridcully?

- My gods these characters are dull. Fancy costume design is a poor substitute for personality.

- Lindljfdinglsnkdnv what is happening there was a bit about the high energy magic building and swears and wait what Ridcully can’t swear?!? YEAH SURE I GUESS

- what is this whole exposition dump about Ridcully and his ‘inventions’?!

- Dude where is his wizard hat. I am shook

- ANYWAY

- Back to Vimes’ past as an immoral douche

- nvm back to the royal parking garage

- Why is Vetinari wasting time on Vimes while he’s such a useless bum? she’s treating him like she knows he’s gonna be a duke one day

- Gods why does Vimes move like that. Gives me the heebie-jeebies

- Ridcully invented iconographs???? AND the dragon-torturing streetlights??? What like there are no other people in the whole city who could’ve done that? We’re really just gonna pin everything on the only wizard dude who seems to exist

- Sybil and Ridcully are arch-enemies then too I guess

- Oh the goblin things are communists for comedy value

- And they work for Carcer... for some... reason???

- carrot is so serious but not in the right way

- “‘just a cleaner” — sweetheart you look like you oughta be escaping a prison planet in Doctor Who wtf

- “‘round world” yooooo.... you realize nobody’s even explained that this is supposedly discworld yet right

- Ridcully is giving me the worst vibes and I hate it

- Oh my gods RIDCULLY IS THE INSANE SERIAL KILLER

- Weeee Carrot’s solved ... something? I’m lost

- Oh no

- What the f**k was that

- You know if they’d halved the eyeliner budget maybe they could’ve afforded 🦧

- “you didn’t bring goodboy with ya” — uh... how do you know? He’s a pocket sized accessory

- Ah nevermind Sybil and Ridcully are chums. why wouldn’t she be chummy with the dude who invented the dragon streetlights that torture dragons that she became a vigilante to rescue. My b

- Ook? More like “OOF.” That design genuinely hurts to look at with my eyeballs.

- cheery and Angua suddenly have ... chemistry ?! Honestly I’m not not here for it

- And then “you’re terrified of the dark” slapped me in the face like a fish.

- Yep. Cheery the tall dwarf is afraid of the dark ... for some... reason?

- Aaaaaand yep capn’ space prison is working for Carcer because of course she is!

- Because there are 10 people in this whole city and half of them work for Carcer and the other half are either ghosts in Cheery’s head or automatons invented by KNOWN SERIAL KILLER Mustrum Ridcully

- What did Carcer call the space prison lady?

- Oh no

- Noooooooooo

- No this is too much.

- So

- Let me sum up

- carcer was a wily gang leader who was looking after a bunch of kids who just wanted to survive on the rough streets on angie-morpurge including SAM VIMES and ... WONSE?! (WHO IS A GRUNGY EX-CON CLEANING LADY INSTEAD OF HAVELOCK’S SECRETARY FOR SOME REASON?!) until Carcer was betrayed by Vimes and accidentally shot sgt. Keel which naturally caused Vimes to chase him onto a roof where Vimes let him fall to his death except instead he got zapped by magic time lighting which caused him to appear in the future where he decided to buy troll drugs, haunt Vimes, and summon a freaking dragon (in that order).

- Yeah yeah. Makes perfect sense.

- Moving on

- Why are we breaking in to the library?

- Oh well at least we’re all here together now

- Serves you right for hiring a cleaner who looks like a gritty space ex-con my guy

- “carcer needs to burn the whole city down” “why?” Uh—yeh

- Will somebody please make Vimes stop moving. His torso, his face—everything. Stop it

- Stop

- Please gods

- My head. It hurts.

- They’re doing exposition but it just hurts.

- Oh good the goblin assassins are here with arrows

- What are these camera movements and why are they LOUD?!

- I think I blinked and missed most of angua’s character arc but good for her I guess

- WHY DOES VIMES MOVE LIKE THAT

- So angua did what?

- Aw Carcer. what a bro. What a sweetheart. I hope things go well for him.

- WHY DOES VETINARI BELIEVE IN VIMES?!

- What is the point of Vimes in this?! He has no moral compass. No wit. No soul. He’s just a drunk coward doing a bad Jim Carrey impression that makes me want to die

- Wait was that an edit or did I have a stroke

- Uh... so they are setting up Cheery and Angua as lovers then. Still not hating it, just... ya know... the whole angua and carrot thing? Kind of a big deal? We’re not gonna like... no? Okay.

- “we’re actually quite good at this aren’t we” —NO

- “i wouldn’t be seen dead wearing that” — we’re really just plucking lines from random discworld characters and chucking them into the script randomly aren’t we

- No no, let’s hear Sybil’s tragic backstory about how the watch done her wrong here we goooo-oh? Nope never mind there she goes she left

- Whoop there it is. It’s assigned reading.

- “Join me, Wonse. Join THE DARK SIDE OF THE FORCE” - Carcer

- HOLD UP

- CARCER JOINED SOME MESSED-UP VERSION OF THE TIME TRAVELING MONKS?!?!?

- THE MONKS (or whoever they’re supposed to be he mumbled and I didn’t catch it) ARE TRYING TO DESTROY REALITY?!?!?

- What

- The

- ———-

[unfrgivble-archive]

-----   𝐓𝐇𝐄   𝐂𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐊'𝐒   𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆   𝐈𝐒   𝐋𝐎𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐑   𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐍   𝐀𝐍𝐘𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆   𝐇𝐄'𝐒   𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑   𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐃   𝐁𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄.   he   sits,   straight-backed   and   proud   across   from   lord   grantham,   awaiting   an   answer.   he   thinks   he   has   made   a   fairly   convincing   argument   but   he   fears   that   mary   has   said   too   much.   what   if   this   was   all   for   nothing   ?? “   our   sybil   always   seems   very   happy   to   be   around   you,   “   lord   grantham   notes.    “   then   the   feeling   is   mutual,   my   lord.   she   is   an   extraordinary   young   woman.   you   have   raised   her   quite   well.   “ “   indeed,   she   very   much   takes   after   her   mother.   “   they   fall   into   a   moment   of   silence.   one   that   makes   lucius   slightly   nervous.   they   have   been   discussing   and   borderline   negotiating   for   what   seems   like   forever   (   though,   it   has   only   been   about   an   hour.   )   “   i   give   you   my   blessing.   i   know   that   some   members   of   this   family   will   have   a   differing   opinion,   but   i   see   nothing   that   concerns   me.   i   trust   sybil’s   judgment   when   it   comes   to   her   company.   “ lucius   lets   out   a   breath   that   he   has   been   holding   in   since   the   beginning.   “   thank   you,   my   lord.   “

strolling   through   downton’s   garden   has   always   been   quite   a   comfort.   they   remind   him   of   his   own   garden   back   at   malfoy   manor,   though   he   must   admit   that   downton’s   gardens   are   much   newer.   his   own   were   designed   and   planted   back   when   the   manor   was   originally   erected   several   hundred   years   ago.   many   of   the   blossoms   have   survived   the   years   with   charms   that   have   helped   them   survive   and   good   nurturing   from   the   gardeners.   they   talk   idly   as   they   normally   do.   some   casual   debate   here   and   there,   challenging   each   other’s   point   of   view   in   a   way   that   has   expanded   their   minds.   some   gossip   is   sprinkled   in   and   then,   deeper   conversations.   lucius   is   still   trying   to   process   the   fact   that   he   showed   her   all   of   his   memories.   from   the   minute   he   was   birthed,   to   the   heartbreak   he   felt   when   andromeda   left   him   for   ted   tonks,   receiving   the   mark,   being   thrown   in   azkaban,   tortured   by   the   dark   lord   for   his   failures,   his   wife   leaving,   everything.   everything   that   could   possibly   explain   why   lucius   is   the   way   he   is.   why   lucius   thinks   the   way   he   does.   and   she   listens.   she   always   does. they   find   the   pillared   folly,   and   decide   that   this   is   the   perfect   place   to   rest.   lucius   as   well   decides   that   this   is   the   perfect   place   to   propose.   “   there   is   something   else   i   was   hoping   to   discuss,   “   lucius   informs   hers.   “   it   begins   with   a   question   and   it   will   be   the   most   important   question   i   ever   ask   you.   “ he   reaches   into   his   muggle   jacket   pocket,   pulling   out   a   small   green   velvet   box.   he   isn’t   sure   how   muggles   do   these   sorts   of   things,   but   as   far   as   he   can   recall,   they   kneel   on   the   ground   which   is   exactly   what   he   does.   “   sybil,   there   are   no   words   i   can   possibly   say   to   express   the   way   i   feel   for   you.   my   love,   respect,   and   admiration   for   you   is   immeasurable.   i   cannot   picture   a   life   without   you   by   my   side,   which   is   why   i   would   like   to   spend   the   rest   of   my   days   with   you.   will   you   do   me   the   immense   honor   of   be   -   “ lucius’s   eyes   just   so   happened   to   glance   away   for   a   second,   brows   narrowing   as   he   sees   a   group   of   robed   men   rushing   across   the   field   towards   them.   he   notices   wands   in   their   hands. lucius   stands   quickly,   pushing   sybil   behind   him,   wand   drawn.   “   lucius   malfoy   !!   “   he   hears   a   man   shouting.   lucius   raises   his   wand,   ready   to   cast   any   spell   necessary.   “   lucius   malfoy   !!   “ the   group   of   wizards   approach   them,   cautious   as   they   seem   lucius’s   wand   raised   -   after   all,   lucius   was   once   considered   a   very   dark   and   dangerous   wizard.   “   by   the   order   of   the   ministry   of   magic,   you   are   hereby   barred   from   use   of   any   and   all   timeturners.   you   will   surrender   your   timeturner   to   me   once   all   of   the   muggles   are   obliviated   and   you   are   returned   to   the   year   2001.   “ lucius   does   not   drop   his   wand.   “   now,   hear   me,   “   he   growls.   “   i   am   hurting   no   one.   i   am   staying   here   -   “ “   you   have   changed   history   far   too   much   already.   there   can   be   rippling   consequences.   you   don’t   want   another   trip   to   azkaban,   do   you   ??   just   think   how   devastated   your   son   would   be   -   “ lucius   should   hex   him   just   for   mentioning   draco,   but   instead,   his   attention   goes   on   sybil.   “   they   intend   to   erase   your   memories   -   “ the   wizard   speaks   up.   “   don’t   fret,   miss.   it   is   painless.   your   family   has   already   been   done.   “

lucius   grabs   sybil’s   arm,   wanting   her   to   keep   her   focus   on   him.   “   run   as   fast   and   as   far   as   you   can.   i’ll   keep   them   busy.   “

surprise starter for @ircnwrought​

[morporkian-cryptid]

I need to yell about the new Watch trailer

WHAT THE FUCK ARE THEY EVEN TRYING TO ACCOMPLISH

I wanted to add a cut, but Tumblr won’t let me. So... yeah. Expect a lot of capslock yelling.

That purple thing at the beginning is Ankh-Morpork? WHY ARE THERE SKYSCRAPERS AND NO TOWER OF ARTS?

“the sudden appearance of this creature” is timed with Vime’s disappearance with the magic lightning bolt. But it’s about the dragon. Way to confuse the viewer.

The dragon is visible during a fraction of a second. I had to pause the video to see it. What’s the fucking point of showing it, then??

Vetinari is blinking way too often. WHERE’S THE COLDNESS? WHERE’S THE CHARISMA?

...does Vimes have a MOHAWK?

Why is he wearing eye-liner?????

The dog is either Gaspode or Wuffles, probably Wuffles judging by the collar, and he looks like neither of them

...is that a SURVEILLANCE CAMERA behind Vimes???

Vime’s badge is more or less okay, at least it has Ankh-Morpork’s symbol on it

THE NEON SIGN. NO. JUST NO. And the Watch House looks like it’s made of concrete, which... No.

Are those bamboos???

Besides the fact that Cheery’s way too tall for a dwarf and DOESN’T HAVE A BEARD???????? DAMMIT????? , I really like her style

I am gay for Angua von Überwald

For a second I thought Angua had a gonne and I nearly burst a vessel, but thank the gods it’s only a crossbow

Carrot is visible for just a split second

SYBIL’S SWAMP DRAGON!! :D (one of the rare good points of this trailer)

Excuse me but SYBIL RAMKIN IS FAT. I refuse this caricature of a magazine model. I can accept that she isn’t white (even though that goes against her identity as a diverted symbol of the rich nobility) but FOR THE LOVE OF THE GODS LET HER BE FAT! FUCKIT!

Vimes’ eyebrows are more expressive than Vetinari’s. I’m already angry that they made Vetinari into a woman for no fucking reason, but if this actress doesn’t know how to lift an eyebrow I swear to the gods I will sue BBC America. SHE SHOULD HAVE RAISED AN EYEBROW IN THIS SCENE

WHY ARE THERE ELECTRICAL WIRE EVERYWHERE?? THIS IS A MEDIEVAL CITY JUST BEFORE THE COAL INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION WHY DO THEY HAVE ELECTRICITY

Oh hey Cheery has a beard now? ........fuck, please tell me she didn’t shave after coming out as a woman 0_0

Why show the very beginning of Angua’s transformation and not outright her wolf form? People who don’t know the books won’t understand anything and people who already know... already know, so it’s pointless :/

Sybil is cool and badass but she’s not Sybil

All the clips are way too short to introduce any of the characters, or even understand anything about what’s going on, if I hadn’t stopped the video every second I wouldn’t have seen Carrot, or the dragon

Showing the iconograph imp is completely useless if you don’t explain what it is :/

WHY DOES VIMES HAVE AN ELECTRIC GUITAR? WHY IS THERE A ROCK CONCERT? WHY IS THERE THE MUSICIANS’ GUILD’S LOGO BEHIND THEM WHEN THEY ARE EXPRESSLY AGAINST ROCK MUSIC? ROCK MUSIC DOESN’T EVEN EXIST ANYMORE IT DISAPPEARED WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS

VIMES HAS A MOHAWK

ANGUA HAS A MOHAWK

IS THAT CARROT PLAYING THE BATTERY??? CARROT WOULD NEVER PLAY ROCK MUSIC OR WEAR MAKEUP WHY THE FUCK

Vimes flipping Vetinari... just... no

“No Sir” is the only redeeming thing in this shit show

...There’s no number on Vimes’ badge. Okay that’s just a detail, but the number is kind of an important detail.

THE TAGLINE IN BRIGHT PINK FONT? WHY BRIGHT PINK? W H Y???

I really like Angua’s chara design (because... gay) but it’s got nothing to do with her descriptions in the books. AT ALL.

CHEERY IS ALMOST AS TALL AS CARROT which is ironic considering that Carrot is technically a dwarf, but... still

WHY DOESN’T CHEERY HAVE A BEARD SHE SHOULD HAVE A BEARD FOR THE LOVE OF THE GODS PLEASE GIVE THIS DWARF HER BEARD BACK

Sybil... Where is the real Lady Sybil Ramkin... SHE IS SUPPOSED TO LOOK LIKE A VALKYRIE AND INSPIRE WARRIOR CHANTS SHE’S NOT SUPPOSED TO LOOK LIKE A FUCKING TWIG!!!!! GIVE US OUR SYBIL BACK!!!

THERE IS NOTHING RIGHT IN THIS FUCKING SHIT SHOW WHAT THE FUCK

If it weren’t Discworld, it would be cool, but they can’t make this and try to sell it as Discworld. They’re trying to forcefully modernize this universe to appeal to a larger audience, and in the process trampling everything that made the book series actually modern and just... HAVE A PURPOSE. Cheery’s beard isn’t just a beard, it’s a defining elements of the whole debate around dwarves’ gender. Sybil’s fatness is necessary to showing that she can be badass AND fat. Carcer.......... the fandom has already delved into why making Carcer black goes directly AGAINST the message his character was originally supposed to convey. Also why do they show him for two seconds in the trailer with no context or explanation whatsoever? And I will not talk about Vetinari or I might start actually screaming.

The clips are way too fast to understand anything unless you pause the video every second. You can only understand/notice the characters’ introductions if you already know them and have followed the casting process. They didn’t introduce any plot line - the lightning and Carcer are shown for just two seconds without explanation, the dragon is in one clip not even lasting a full second, the word “dragon” is never even uttered, nor is it stated to be a threat at all... I showed it to a friend who has never read the Watch books, and they said they hadn’t even understood that Vimes was a cop and the Watch was the police. This trailer is trying to cram in all the characters, plot lines and mostly the universe’s frankly questionable redesign, without actually saying anything.

I’ve changed my mind, I’m going to watch the series when it comes out, so that I can see firsthand how bad it is. I don’t have any expectations so I can’t be disappointed.

[therewasatale]

Kindred spirits

On Ao3.

There are countless interdimensional service and food establishments across the multiverse. In some cases, the building or the interior itself is travelling from world to world, sometimes buying items in one dimension and selling them in the next one. In other cases, only the opening door appears in different or even multiple worlds, and the interior is situated in some kind of pocket space. Probably because the rent is cheaper that way.

One of these latter places was the "Beasts Den", a small smoky pub which served as a refuge for everyone who was obsessed with exotic or magical animals. It was a strange niche for an establishment but considering the vastness of the universe, it would have been stranger for it not to exist. As it is all people in the multiverse who had that strange gentle insanity which led to someone naming a twenty-meter-long scaled beast with claws longer than kitchen knife and multiple tentacles "Fluffy", had the potential to find this place.

It appeared as an old wooden door scratched and burned multiple times with the letters "Beasts Dean, Animals welcome" hammered into it in metal letters. It was usually found when those aforementioned people were at a low point in their life, and they needed some company aside, or with their little house pets.

And if someone, Rubeus Hagrid was in need of something to get the weight off his mind, and some stiff drinks would have been a great start. Honestly, he would have considered it a great continuation, and probably finish as well, but it didn’t turn out well the last time. He was heading towards the Hog's Head but turned down between two houses when he noticed something unusual. He knew Hogsmead like the back of his hand but he never saw that battered door before.  And now he was in front of it in a back alleyway.

He knew he shouldn’t.

Unknown new doors appearing in a wizard village were usually the result of some prankster, or something even more sinister, but Hagrid didn’t care anymore. It looked like an inn, seemed welcoming, and he really, really needed something to drink. He pushed down the door handle, and to his surprise, there was no shower of confetti or fart noise, but it opened into an actual pub.

The room was filled with the smell of something acrid, smoke, alcohol, and thousand more, not many of them pleasant. There were perches, boxes, and cages everywhere, hiding serpentine or furry shapes which watched the patrons with suspicious eyes. On the perches sat a variety of critters from birds seemingly made out of pure crystal to a lemur kind of primate which had membranes under its arms. To Hagrid's surprise the patrons were just as varied as the animals.

There was a person wearing a trench coat and a matching hat, feeding chicken nuggets to something similar to a small demonic dog. There was also a young man around his twenties with a red and white patterned baseball cap playing with a couple of similarly designed small balls and drinking a half-emptied mug of beer.

On the other side of the pub a muscular woman wearing animal pelts was letting her bear drink from her wine glass as she gently petted the animal's head. Hagrid didn’t even get the usual stares regarding his height and stature as he lumbered in. He walked to the counter and took a seat beside a solemn looking brown-haired woman who wore slightly singed thick letter clothing.

The barstool barely creaked under him when he sat down and as he moved around it adjusted to his size. He leaned against the counter and let his earlier melancholy flow back into him. It was a wonderous place, but right now it just reminded him of what he had to give up. He sighed as he raised his hand.

A big man, almost his size stepped up to him on the other side of the counter He had a mass of scars for a face, and an eyepatch, but despite this he wore a surprisingly gentle smile on his face.

"Good evening. What can I get for you?"

"Evening. A pint of beer, and after that keep it coming, please. I had a rough day. "

The barkeep nodded with an all-knowing smile. During his long time as the barkeep in the "Beasts Den" he seen this countless times. In his opinion a good barkeep didn’t asked if the patron didn’t want to speak, and more importantly never judged. He just provided a port in the storm.

"Aren't we all. " Huffed the woman right next to Hagrid. She was drinking sherry from a wine glass and wore an expression just as downcast as his own.

"Mhmm." Answered Hagrid as he got his mug of beer. He contemplated to say something or not, but after a bit of deliberation he decided that he needed it off his chest, and besides if someone, the strange people in this pub would understand it.

"I had to give up my pet. He grew up to be too big, and the principal said I couldn’t keep it around the school where I work as a groundskeeper." The half giant sighed and emptied his glass in a couple of big gulps. "I loved that little rascal. "

"I am really sorry." Said the woman with a gentle expression and patted the man's shoulder. "I know how hard is can be to lose a pet. Sybil Ramkin by the way."

She extended her hand the groundskeeper of Hogwarts took it into his shovel sized ones and shook it.

"Rubeus Hagrid. And yes, its, really hard." Hagrid could feel tears welling up in his eyes. He reached into his pocket and started dabbing them away with his half-charred handkerchief." He…he was feisty, but I know its jut because that’s how he showed his love. I-I will always miss him. I remember when he was little, he always tried to bite off my fingers." Sobbed Hagrid slowly and heaved a mighty sigh.

"It's all right, just let it all out," smiled gently Sybil and petted the man's giant hand.

"My poor Norbert is now away somewhere in Romania in a sanctuary. I don’t even know if he will like it there. Anyway…" Hagrid shook his head and wiped away his tears as he got another pint of beer from the barkeep. "…I don’t just want to vent on you. Why are you here? You said you had a bad day too?"

"Oh yes, I have some problem with poor Thaddeus here." She leaned to her left and patted a big carrier box beside her chair. Something hissed at her as an answer. "He is a rescue, but he is bit cranky, have a dull color and already an adult, so I'm afraid no-one will want to adopt him. I can't keep him with the others because he is really territorial with them. I am afraid I will have to put him down." Sybil sighed and it was her turn to take out a handkerchief and use it to wipe away a couple of big tears from her face.

Hagrid nodded solemnly as he looked at the box, when a sudden wild idea appeared in his head.

"I could take him." He said before his head managed to consider any consequences.

"Don’t say things like that." Waved the woman as she got hold of her emotions. "You don’t even know what he is."

Hagrid deflated a little bit and nodded. It was true, and, he had a habit of picking up all sort of critters without first learning how to properly take care of them. He emptied his mug of beer again before starting to speak again.

"Sorry, I just feel empty after losing my dragon, and…" Sybil choked a bit on her own drink and placed it down between a couple of big coffs.

"Dragon…Your Norbert was a dragon?" She coughed as Hagrid nodded again wondering what became of her.

"Yeah, a Norwegian Ridgeback. He became too big, and I had to give him away to a Dragon Sanctuary. What?" Asked Hagrid because the women were looking at him as intently as if she was trying to stare holes into him.

"How big is too big?" She asked suddenly.

"I…what?" Asked Hagrid completely baffled.

"How about, two feet maybe? No bigger?" Asked again Sybil hurriedly and leaned closer with a very determined expression.

"Uh…If Norbert would have been just two feet long there would have been no problem keeping him, yes. But he wasn’t, and…"

Sybil reached down and raised the small box from beside him, eliciting a disapproving gurgling noise from its resident. Through the holes on its side one could see a serpentine body, little stubby legs, a dull green color, and two suspicious little eyes.

"Have you ever had a Narrowe-Eared Smut?" Asked Sybil as she deposited the box in the lap of his drinking buddy.

Hagrid blinked a couple of times and gently wiggled a finger near one of the holes. The answer was a small but spirited gust of flame.

"Not yet." Answered the half giant with a warm tone in his voice. "But I would like to try."

"Well, I have a small booklet with me." Smiled Sybil gently. "Someone who loves dragons can't be a bad person, and at this point I would do anything to spare poor Thaddeus from the chopping block. " The woman's hand disappeared inside her pockets and she deposited a couple of items into the counter beside her sherry glass.

A golden pocket watch, a couple coal tablets, a small metal spoon, a notebook and a couple chewed up pencils. Finally, from the bottom of the pocket appeared a small booklet titled.

"Swamp Dragons and you: The Narrowe-Eared Smut and its care." She slid the paper towards Hagrid and smiled.

"There, everything is there that you need to know about the breed. "

Hagrid, still a bit shell shocked nodded, and slid the booklet inside his own, just as cluttered pocket. As Sybil slowly put everything back into her pocket, she glanced at the pocket watch she took out the first time, then flushed.

"By the gods, it's this late already? I have to be at the palace in half an hour and I need to change before that. Sorry Hagrid but I really have to go.  Hello, dearie." She patted the box gently as she stood up and placed a handful of coins on the counter. "If you have any question find me at the Ramkin residence, you two have a dragon of a time together. " Chuckled Sybill before storming out the door.

Hagrid only caught a glimpse from view outside, but the graffitied alleyway seemed much different from the one which he stepped in from.

"Wai-" The half giant tried to say something, but his talking partner was already out of the door. "Palace? Ramkin residence?" He muttered as he glanced down at the little box inside his lap. "I have never heard of such places."

The strange little creature answered with a small bubbling noise and belched a little cloud of smoke.

"Neither did I heard of swamp dragons. Well…It looks like I have something else to do instead of just moping." Hagrid smiled and placed a couple of coins on the counter before taking the box with him stepping out the door.

He found the alleyway just the same as it was when he stepped in. It wouldn’t be polite from a magic bar to not make sure that people somehow always get home after a night of heavy drinking. Glancing back, he wasn’t even surprised to see that the door had disappeared behind him.

"Well, I don’t really know what happened but one thing I do know." Hagrid looked down at the creature which was trying to scratch out the side of the box. "We are going to get along like a house on fire. " Smiled Hagrid and begin to walk home.

What he didn’t know that it was in fact a hut on fire, multiple times. And more than a few scratches and bites. But despite that, he wouldn’t have traded Thaddeus for all the treasures of the world.

[yakocchi]

Be My Princess Social // Yakov Chernenkov, Season 1, Episodes 2&3

The Job of the Exclusive Designer // Prince Yakov’s Dance Partner

1・2/3・

yeahhh boi 2 eps in one post, trying to do the zoomies with progress so i can get to the better parts in terms of being less judged by ikemen elsa sorry for potentially clogging the tag with this stuff. i’ll see if i can do larger chunks as this goes along to prevent that... but i also don’t really want to make these posts too large tho... i’m noticing with the new dash it just extends the post on the dash directly when you click the read more break, which...........huh

on an unrelated note - tbh there’s not that... much “actual” content going on in the other otome mobage i’m playing rn so i’m more inclined to move this along. sorry for those who follow me for other stuff, but we’re at the boring july lull where it’s just swimsuit/beach stuff. zzz maybe in a week or two i can wake up

Image-heavy!! Please credit if you take any of it, thenk u (･ω･*)

blog link of this post here, if you’d rather read this on my blog directly than on dash. otherwise:

Episode 2 // The Job of the Exclusive Designer

➤ as an aside, i’m going to start using italics on dialogue for emphasis more often. takes less brain power than having to restructure the sentence and the like just to utilize emphasis based on word use and/or adding words or phrases........ i’m not a trained editor ok orz i’ll try not to overkill with it tho.... otherwise it’ll be italics overkill with the (internal thoughts italics)

I had received an invitation from Lord Nobel himself to become the exclusive designer of Sanct Sybil― And earlier, I wholeheartedly decided to accept that offer.

However, I know for sure that the Prince is someone I’ve encountered before. (I would’ve never considered that these two were the prince and steward of Sanct Sybil...) The Prince takes a seat on the couch, and Zain presents a few documents to him.

[Zain]: “Here is Miss Kara’s resume, along with her past design sketches.” [Prince Yakov]: “...I shall take a look.” Taking the documents, he sets the design sketches aside on the table. The face and overall mood the Prince wears as he scans the papers are unreadable. (Ahh...I’m so nervous...) I shift my eyes away from the Prince, breathing out a soft sigh. In doing so, my line of sight stops right at the butler standing next to him. (If I’m remembering correctly, I’m pretty sure his name is Yuri.) (Prince Yakov certainly is terrifying, with an intimidating aura to boot – but... This guy’s scary in a whole different way.) With a sidelong glance at Yuri, the smile he’s been wearing this whole time doesn’t even crack in the slightest. Though it was visually the same smile as the one he wore while pinning down that man in the courtyard,  the Yuri before my eyes only has the vibe of a mild-mannered steward today. (Neither of them have said anything out loud regarding that past incident... but, without a doubt, they definitely remember me from that time.)

My body buckled down thinking about it when Prince Yakov then looked up from the papers in his hands. [Prince Yakov]: "I understand that she hails from the offices of the famed Jean Pierre.” [Prince Yakov]: “However... from these documents, it appears that there are no records of previous accolades of any kind – but?” His brows cross slightly as he inquires Lord Nobel about it. With a nod, His Grace turns his gaze to the design sketches on the tabletop.

[Nobel]: “It’s true that given her very brief time under those offices, she has yet to gain any formal accolades for herself.” [Nobel]: “But, you should take a look at these designs. Surely then you can notice her capabilities.” [Prince Yakov]: “...I see.” Paying no heed to the design sketches, the Prince places the resume over the table.

(The work of a designer with no actual accomplishments – it’s something he’d have no interest for, I would think.) (Even though the likes of Lord Nobel and Jean Pierre have especially recommended me... I’m pretty sure I’m going to get rejected.) Feeling uneasy as I look over his expression, the Prince slowly exhales. As if contemplating something, he makes a bit of a troubled face while meeting Lord Nobel’s gaze. [Prince Yakov]: “―If someone like Your Grace is sponsoring her, I suppose that the lack of past achievements will not be a problem.”

[Prince Yakov]: “I shall invite her to be the exclusive designer of Sanct Sybil castle.” (Huh...?) [Nobel]: “I see. Well, when can Kara come to Sanct Sybil?” [Prince Yakov]: “About that... As soon as the formalities have been taken care of, we shall arrange to let her live in the castle at once.” [Prince Yakov]: “―Yuri, proceed with the proper formalities.” [Yuri]: “Understood.” [Yuri]: “With that, Miss Kara, here are the documents detailing the contents of the position.” Yuri, disregarding my surprised state, hands me some papers. (Without looking at even a single one of my designs, he’s decided to accept me as the castle’s designer...) (Is this really okay?)

With my apprehensive thoughts, I...

➢ Question Prince Yakov. ❆  ➢ Question Yuri.

  ➢ Question Prince Yakov. [Kara]: “P-Please wait...!” I call out to the Prince, who looked like he was about to take his leave. [Kara]: “Um... is this really all right?” [Prince Yakov]: “What of it?” [Kara]: "Without even reviewing my designs, you’ve accepted me as the castle’s designer.” Questioning the Prince, his eyebrows slightly knit. [Prince Yakov]: “The appointment of high-level positions has been entrusted to me by the King himself. There is no problem.” [Prince Yakov]: “―This discussion is over for now. Finish looking over those documents as soon as possible.”  ➼

  ➢ Question Yuri. Seeing at the Prince engaged in conversation with Lord Nobel, I look at Yuri next to me. [Kara]: “Um... Yuri. Am I really the right one for the job?” (Even if Jean Pierre and Lord Nobel have recommended me, this still seems like too much for a fresh newcomer...) [Yuri]: “His Highness made his decision, so there is no need to worry.” With a smile etched over his face, he presses the documents towards me once more.  ➼ 

   ➼ [Yuri]: “Thus, please do review these documents.” [Yuri]: “First– On the contract, can you sign here?” [Yuri]: “If His Highness ends up also signing this, your position will become official.” [Kara]: “...Understood.” Dissatisfaction wallowing within me, I receive the papers.

Kara, visibly perplexed about something, proceeds with the contract formalities. Lord Nobel, who watched this state of affairs from a distance, then turns to face Yakov.

[Nobel]: “Kara, make no mistake, will be an essential figure for Sanct Sybil.” [Nobel]: “And then I believe that the day you, Prince Yakov, will become a great power will surely come.” [Prince Yakov]: “...Your Grace, you hold her in high regard.” [Nobel]: “I sense this great enthusiasm and potential within her.” Lord Nobel beams, and speaks as if to emphasize its importance. [Nobel]: “I’m earnestly entrusting her with you, all right?” [Prince Yakov]: “...Duly noted, Your Grace.” The Prince nods at Lord Nobel’s words, his expression unchanging.

➤ ok from this moment forward i’m only labeling him as [Yakov] bc i don’t like how it doesn’t line up with the other names when it’s long. the prince title is still there and all ye

(At long last, I've come...) Stepping out of the arranged car, I stop in my tracks and look up at Sybil Castle. The castle differed from that of Nobel Castle in that I was quite overwhelmed by its solemn appearance― When Yakov’s personal steward, Yuri, greets me with a smile on his face.

[Yuri]: “―Miss Kara, we have been awaiting your arrival. Welcome to Sanct Sybil.” [Kara]: “Thank you for everything so far.” While exchanging fellow greetings, I shiver from the chilly air. Yuri then guides me towards the entrance of the castle. [Yuri]: “Your luggage will be brought in by personnel. Over here, come in.” [Kara]: “Ah-...Thank you.” Nervous, I follow Yuri and head into the castle.

[Yuri]: “The climate of Sanct Sybil and Charles are significantly different from each other. It must have given you quite the shock.” [Kara]: “Yes. ...I’m glad that you told me about it in advance.” On those work documents I had received in Nobel Castle, it included an explanation that informed me of the country’s climate. [Kara]: “But I didn’t think it would be this cold.” [Kara]: “If I hadn’t been told, I would’ve came here without preparing for anything like it.” [Yuri]: “It is because we are expecting snowfall very soon around here.” [Yuri]: “Everyone who comes to this country for the first time always is astonished by the cold, too.” Smiling, he urges me to walk ahead of him. [Yuri]: “So to start off, I shall show you around the castle.” [Yuri]: “We will stop by the studio first and then Our Lady’s room right after.” [Kara]: “...Thank you very much.” [Kara]: “Um, Yuri. As we’re both just employees working under the same castle, I’d like it if you didn’t call me ‘Miss’, but...” Expressing my thoughts, Yuri nods, smiling. [Yuri]: “Understood.” [Yuri]: “Then, Kara, let us head to the studio.” [Kara]: “Okay.” (A studio, huh... I wonder what kind of place it is.) 

[Yuri]: “This here will be your personal studio.” [Yuri]: “You can use anything in here to produce to your heart’s desire.” [Yuri]: “If you ever need more of anything, I can make the proper arrangements for you – So please, tell me when that is the case.” [Kara]: “Y-Yes...” (...You wouldn’t expect anything less from the castle of a royal family; the facilities here are just superb.) Surveying the studio, I sigh in admiration of the room. I had been also shown the more important areas of the castle– and the dignified atmosphere of it all just easily overpowered me entirely. (With this level of equipment prepared, it’ll be even more inappropriate to make anything half-baked.) Feeling the pressure once more, Yuri then grins. [Yuri]: “There’s no need to be so anxious.” [Yuri]: “–I suppose it would have been better if I had handed these to you beforehand.” Yuri pulls out a stack of papers from the studio shelves. [Kara]: “And this is...?” [Yuri]: “These are the documents that you will be taking up from the previous designer.” Accepting the documents, I flip through the pages. (This, is...) On the sheets were essential notes regarding designs used for Prince Yakov in terms of public business, ceremonies and similar matters, along with a compilation of things like patterns that had been used in the past. [Yuri]: “His Highness is not the type to fuss over design details and the like,” [Yuri]: “so it will not be necessary to make any major alterations on the designs we have used so far.” [Yuri]: "Since you just have to follow these references to produce the garments, I do not think it is a difficult task.” (That’s... something that doesn’t require my capability as a designer...) [Kara]: “Um... These documents passed down to me – the previous designer was the one who drew them up, right?” [Yuri]: “Indeed. Because of the replacements we have made nowadays, they have already been forced to resign from this castle, but.” [Kara]: “Uh... Why did that happen?” (If I’m being made to produce solely based on their previous work, the past designer must have been at least recognized for their skill.) (So, given that, why would they be made to retire...?) Thinking how strange that was, I ask Yuri and he gives further explanation. [Yuri]: "It was so they could be replaced with the fresh, new talent that you yourself are included in.” [Yuri]: "Various departments in this castle have undergone massive layoffs.” [Yuri]: "And because of that, several individuals in the castle right now, including yourself, are newly hired.” [Kara]: “Layoffs...” As far as I can see with these old documents, it looks like the previous designer was definitely competent. So, with that– why would they think it was necessary to go out of their way and replace them? (Not only that, but replacing the majority of the castle faculty as well...) Completely stunned by the reality of this place, Yuri clarifies this in an indifferent tone. [Yuri]: ”Those who had been laid off were simply the type of talent the Sybil of today is not looking for.”

[Yuri]: ”...I had been thinking that you were going to learn about such things sooner or later.” He said this to me with that unbreakable smile of his,  and I was at a loss for words.

[Yuri]: “―Kara, this will be your room.” [Yuri]: "As soon as His Highness’s conference concludes, I will be coming back to pick you up. Until then, please feel free to spend your time however you wish.” [Kara]: “Got it.” (For now, I might as well unpack...) When Yuri took his leave, I began to organize my luggage; but with my grim mood, it was considerably hard to make any progress with it. [Kara]: “Make the clothes according to the provided diagrams, huh...” Don’t “design”― In other words I was practically told to be a designer, but not to actually work as a designer for the most part. (Something like that is going to be my real job here in this castle...) The documents that had detailed the job read the same as any other designer position, but the actual work ended up being completely different than from what I had initially pictured. (And to think, both Pierre and Lord Nobel took effort to recommend me for this...)

(Well, if they were truly willing to hire someone with no experience... anyone would’ve sufficed, then.) I hung my head with a sigh, when my hand slips and drops the bag I was holding. [Kara]: “Ah-...” My work tools and design sketches scatter all over the floor. (Jeez... What am I doing...) Gathering up my sketches in a fluster, one of the designs then incidentally catches my eye.

It was a sheet of one of the most particularly memorable designs I had made since I became a part of the Jean Pierre offices.  (This... Pierre scolded me about it, and then I reworked it several times...) [Kara]: “...Takes me back a bit.” (The first time I received praise for my work, I was so happy that I even forwarded the message to my parents too, I recall.) Going through page by page of my saved designs, they were filled with my personal tender thoughts from those times. The shabbier designs too― every single one was a precious treasure to me. (If I make designs by just following those old documents to a T, I’m certain... that the resulting designs wouldn’t make me feel this same way.) (Besides...)

[Jean Pierre]: “From your designs, I feel this power to them.”  [Jean Pierre]: “There are some parts that are rough around the edges, but there’s this energy, one that can completely transform people, hidden within!” [Jean Pierre]: “Lord Nobel definitely sensed that too, I bet.”    [Jean Pierre]: “Please believe in yourself.” [Jean Pierre]: “I, as well as His Grace, would never recommend someone who we’d feel couldn’t do the job.” [Jean Pierre]: “I believe in your potential, ma petite.”

(That’s right – I’ve... been recommended by the likes of Jean Pierre and Lord Nobel.) (I want to do work – work that can actually be called that of a designer!) Determined, I hastily round up the design sketches.

[Yuri]: “ ―Pardon me.” [Yuri]: “I have brought the designer, Kara.” At Yuri’s cue, I come into the office and see Prince Yakov surrounded by a great mass of documents. One after another, he scans through each page before giving it his signature – and while in surprise at his current state, I bow my head.

[Kara]: “Starting today, I, Kara Go, will be at your service.  ―Pleased to work with you.” [Yakov]: “Mhm.” His eyes continued to focus on the documents as he replied, never looking away.

[Yakov]: “Getting straight to the point― I am calling on you to produce apparel for a party that we are hosting two weeks from now.” [Yakov]: “As it has been planned that you will also attend this party as the castle’s designer, make sure to prepare your own dress.” (Two weeks from now... that sudden?) [Kara]: “Um... Do you have any requests regarding the garments themselves?” [Kara]: “I’d like to hear if you have any preferences concerning things like design, color, material, but...” [Yakov]: “You can design your own dress however you want – however,” [Yakov]: “provided that you do not make anything disgraceful as the exclusive designer of this castle.” Along with these severe demands, he somehow has even more to say. [Yakov]: ”Regarding my own attire, you may refer to the prior templates.” [Yakov]: “After this, you will have to produce clothing meant for official business; but as long as you do not deviate from those templates, that will be adequate.” [Yakov]: “―That is all to be discussed, so you may leave now.”  Without looking in my direction, he declared these matters bluntly. Apparently consenting to his demands, Yuri bows with that same perpetual smile. [Yuri]: “Then, please excuse us. Let us depart, Kara.” [Kara]: “...” [Yuri]: “...Kara?” When Yuri had turned to the door to leave, he then tilts his head as he saw me still frozen in place. (If I back down now, I won’t be able to show my face to Jean Pierre and the others who bothered to recommend me...) With that in mind, I...

➢ "I can’t do that.” ➢ “Give me some more of your time.” ❆  

➢ "I can’t do that.”  [Kara]: “...I cannot.” [Yuri]: “Kara, what are you saying?” [Kara]: “I cannot... produce clothing according to the prior templates.” ➼  

➢ “Give me some more of your time.” I take a single step toward the Prince and say this directly to him― [Kara]: “I must deeply apologize for such, but I would like some more of your time.” [Kara]: “There are some things that I would like Your Highness to take a look at.” [Yakov]: “But I do believe that I had said that this discussion is over?”  [Kara]: “There are still things I’d like to hear from you about. Please, just give me a little more of your time...!” ➼

➼ With these words, I put the file I was holding onto over his office desk. [Kara]: “These here are some of my best designs.” Opening the file, I spread the design sketches over the desk space. They were a variety of designs I’ve drawn so far. [Kara]: "I’m still lacking a bit, but I shall study more starting today. With that, I'll be able to create a great multitude of clothing.” [Kara]: “So, given that – please tell me about the types of designs that Your Highness likes.” [Yakov]: “...Did you not hear what I had just said?” [Yakov]: “My own preferences are irrelevant. As I said before, you may use a design from the notes of the previous designer.” He finally takes his eyes off the documents and looks at me for the first time. Though I felt like cowering beneath that chilly gaze, I attempt to convey my intentions to him. [Kara]: “So as to not destroy the current image of Sanct Sybil, I will also refer to the previous notes at times.” [Kara]: ”However, I’m thinking that Your Highness would just prefer to continue wearing the designs that have been used until now.” [Kara]: “Is that your preferred fashion style, sir?”  

[Yakov]: “...What is your point?” [Kara]: “If that’s indeed the case, then as a designer I will make such designs accordingly.” [Kara]: “But if I’ve gotten the wrong idea, can you please tell me what you actually prefer?” [Kara]: “From now on, rather than to simply just make clothes for Your Highness – I want to know what types of designs you like.” [Kara]: “I’m a designer, so my job is to make clothes that people actually want to wear...!” [Yakov]: “...” At the end of my explanation, the office was greeted by silence. The tension engulfs my body, the prickly sensation almost piercing my skin, when the Prince rises from his chair and approaches me. [Yakov]: “...Giving my opinion here―“

[Yakov]: “In terms of that encounter back at Nobel Castle, and of now… You’re quite the spirited woman.” [Kara]: “Ah…” (As I had previously suspected – he did remember me from the actual first time we met.)

[Yakov]: “To start, I will say this to you.” [Yakov]: “I only desire one, and just one thing from you.”  [Yakov]: “―It is the very fact that you are a designer that Lord Nobel himself has recommended, and that is all there is to it.” [Kara]: “...So, concerning myself– anything other than that fact is of no value to you, is what you’re saying?” [Yakov]: “Correct. It would have been better if you had prior achievements, but I shall compromise on that.” He takes yet another step closer and levels a sharp gaze at me. [Yakov]: “Of course, you are not the only one under these circumstances. In this castle, all of the human capital assembled here are renowned in their respective fields...” [Yakov]: “By hiring these types of individuals, the reputation of Sanct Sybil will increase dramatically.”

(I was called to this castle for such a reason…) (And this must be why the previous designer, as well as some other employees, had been laid off.)

➤ haha did u think this was gonna be a route where she actually got hired out of genuine appreciation of her work

While I was struck silent in shock, Prince Yakov extends his hand towards me. Tucking his fingers under my chin, he lifts my head so I directly face him.

[Yakov]: “―There is also one more thing.”

[Yakov]: “If you wish to hear of my tastes - you will have to ask me more alluringly.” His blue irises, like brilliant sapphires - narrowed mockingly. Being stared at such a close range made my cheeks flare in an instant. [Kara]: “Th-That’s not what I had meant, so… please excuse me!”  (How mortifying... He’s just totally messing with me...!) I swiftly detach from him before hurriedly bowing my head and rushing out of the office.

[Yakov]: “Kara Go, hm…?” With a low murmur, he turns through the pages of design sketches over his office desk. A moment later, having finished looking through them, the memory of his conversation with Lord Nobel a few days ago drifts into his head.

[Nobel]: “Kara, make no mistake, will be an essential figure for Sanct Sybil.” [Nobel]: “And I believe that the day you, Prince Yakov, will become a great power will surely come.” [Prince Yakov]: “...Your Grace, you hold her in high regard.” [Nobel]: “I sense this great enthusiasm and potential within her.”

[Yakov]: “...Someone based on Lord Nobel’s hopes alone is like this, hm?”

Having observed his master’s countenance, Yuri speaks his inner thoughts. [Yuri]: ”When I had first met her, I had thought that she appeared to be the timid type with no self-confidence – but...” [Yuri]: “She seems like quite the intriguing individual, instead.” [Yuri]: “I did not think that she would have that sort of conviction to her character.” [Yakov]: “…” Not responding to Yuri’s comments, Yakov signs a single sheet from the pile of documents on his desk. [Yakov]: “I have finished confirming this. Take it away.” [Yuri]: “Of course.” When Yuri removed the sheet, atop the stack of remaining sheets sat Kara’s official employment documents. On it, was the Prince’s signature of approval― 

To be continued...  

(Letter)

From: Yuri Title: The Unexpected

You appear to be quite firm in your own beliefs. We do not often come across those who are able to plainly express their own opinions in front of His Highness. ...I am, just a touch, interested to see what comes in the future. From here on out– I look forward to working with you.

Episode 3 // Prince Yakov’s Dance Partner

Two weeks after coming to Sanct Sybil to serve as the royal castle’s exclusive designer― Coming to the party hall, I’m overwhelmed by its extravagance and grand scale. (Such a massive amount of people have gathered here tonight...)

[Guest A]: “It seems that Sanct Sybil has finally started to seriously put their plan to join the Alliance of the Six Kingdoms in motion.” [Guest B]: “Mhm. This time, it looks like they’re holding this party for the announcement, but... famous figures around the world have come here to see.” (Really?... This is a spectacular party, huh.) Along with famous figures from every country, several media outlets have come as well, and once again I sense the sheer level of attention focused on this country right now. (Ah-... If I’m not mistaken, that person’s a famous pâtissier.)  In this party, those who had been brought here for this castle, like me, have also been chosen to attend. Within that group of those serving under this castle, several of them are internationally renowned, and each of them respond to the media reporters and journalists in kind. As I watched the crowds at a distance, I overhear them talking about having been hired at around the same time frame as me. [Guest A]: “Since that pastry chef over there was the sole winner of that championship, it’s no surprise they’re getting a lot of attention from the press.” [Guest B]: “Same as the rest of us, the main task they have here is to respond to the media.” [Guest B]: “Well, if I do my work exactly the way the documents told me to, that’s good enough.” [Guest B]: “The rest is just 'fun’ work where we just have to smile in front of the cameras.”  (Like I thought, others in the castle have been made to work in the same fashion as I had been directed.) (It’s been the same for me, too... Ever since I came to this castle, I’ve been receiving a lot of media coverage about me.)

It had been decided that my position as Sybil Castle’s designer is to be permanent, and in the studio I promptly flip open my sketchbook. (The deadline is in two weeks... There’s not that much time for me to think up ideas for my own dress.) For the party they’re hosting two weeks from now, I must make both a uniform for Prince Yakov and a dress for myself. Just as I immediately began to start on my designs, Yuri appeared.

[Yuri]: “Please excuse me. Kara, can you come into another room as soon as possible?” [Kara]: “Um... Is there something?” [Yuri]: “Starting today, those who have been brought to this castle are to receive the presence of news reporters and similar outlets.” [Kara]: “News reporters...?”   [Yuri]: “Yes. His Highness had also told you about it the other day, I recall.” [Yuri]: “Those appointed to work here as a result of the immense scale of the layoffs have been brought here for the purpose of attracting the media’s attention and to increase our reputation.” (Since that’s yet another part of this job that I was specifically sought out to do, I don’t have a choice here...) [Kara]: ”...I understand.” [Yuri]: "It will be all right. As most of the media’s questions have been chosen in advance, we have also prepared answers for you to use.” And so during the days preceding the party, I had countless interviews with the press.

(With stuff like this, I can’t really call myself a designer, now can I?...) I did somehow manage to sew together the requested garments in-between interviews, but other than that, for the most part, I haven’t done anything that can be considered the work of a designer. Letting a sigh leave me as I stood in the corner of the party hall, the press took notice of this and began to come over in my direction. (...Must be another interview, huh.) I think over the words I had decided on for these sort of media interactions in my head, when Prince Yakov then appeared atop the stage platform. That was enough for the eyes of the everyone in the venue to then gather over in his direction.

[Yakov]: “―Today, I would like to make an announcement to those who have congregated here.” [Yakov]: “Sanctis, Sybil, Versurk...”  [Yakov]: “From the unification of these three lands, they were reborn as a brand new nation, the country of Sanct Sybil. [Yakov]: "Of course, not much time has passed since our new country has been founded. However, as of recently, this country has assembled a great number of talented people with promising futures.” The figure of the Prince as he surveyed the large crowd of guests was so gallant and majestic that I was completely entranced.

However, seeing the Prince clad in a uniform that strictly followed the templates that the previous designer had left behind stabbed my chest with a dull pain. (I wanted to make a design that was based on the Prince’s preferred colors and designs, after all.) Since his formal request, I didn’t have much time until the party to begin with, and then there were other things like those interviews― So ultimately, I ended up producing a uniform according to those old notes from the previous designer. (...It’s clothing that I made, but it doesn’t have that sort of feeling to it at all.)

[Yakov]: "Henceforth, Sanct Sybil will now direct its attention towards the early stages of joining the Nobel Michel Alliance.” [Yakov]: "As one nation united, we shall surely endeavor to accomplish joining the Alliance.” Thunderous applause erupts from the crowd of guests. (I have no real connection to this... It’s like I’m listening to a speech for the events occurring in a faraway country...) While further applause was granted to the Prince, the reporters from before begin to move closer again. (I’m not confident that I’ll put out a good interview right now...) As if to escape from this place, I head to the balcony.

(Like you’d think – Even with a dress made for winter, it’s cold out here...) Even wearing a dress and capelet made of thick fabric, the Sybil night still carries a chill of stinging cold. While shivering, I gaze up at the sky above, and there were stars twinkling over the clear horizon.  (Prince Yakov’s speech was absolutely magnificent.) (But...) A little before that speech, I realized that I don’t truly feel like I’m the designer of Sanct Sybil Castle. [Kara]: “...With the way things are now, I wonder if the day I can be honestly called the exclusive designer of this castle will actually come,” I murmured as I vacantly stared deep into the sky, when―

[Yakov]: “―It appears that the party is not to your liking.”

(Huh…?) Turning my head at hearing a voice behind me, I see Prince Yakov walking over in my direction. [Kara]: “Your Highness…” [Kara]: “Is it all right for an honored prince to sneak out of the party?” [Yakov]: “This is merely a small break. I cannot endure such things without at least resting for a moment.” Replying with an indignant look on his face, he comes up to my side. Leaning against the railing to gaze over the courtyard, a small sigh escapes him. [Yakov]: “Every time I pass by someone, I get asked the same things, and then I’m made to answer with the same things over and over again like some sort of cockatoo.” [Kara]: “That... I feel the same about that.” [Kara]: “Every time I have an interview I get asked the same things, and then I just answer with the replies Yuri had prepared for me, over and over again.” Looking over the courtyard like the Prince was, I think back to the things that have happened since I’ve come to this castle. Even though I should be called a “designer”, it’s just pitiful that I can’t receive the essential work for it. [Kara]: “But... that’s the sort of thing I was brought here to do.” [Yakov]: “Are you contempt with that?” [Kara]: “Ah―“

At the Prince’s question, I reply with...

➢ “It’s more a feeling of helplessness.” ❆ ➢ “It’s frustrating, yes.”

➤ for some reason i don’t have the text for the latter choice, rip. maybe i can try coming across it (and the other missing answers) on my bmp2 alt later idk

➢ “It’s more a feeling of helplessness.” ❆

[Kara]: “Rather than feeling contempt... it’s more that I feel helpless about it.” [Yakov]: “’Helpless’?” [Kara]: “Yes. I can’t express anything in my own words― and while it doesn’t mean I haven’t accomplished absolutely anything here...” [Kara]: “At the very least, if I was able to accomplish just one thing by myself, that’d be all right... but I can’t even manage that and I’m just useless.” [Yakov]: “...I see.” I heard a sense of immediate realization in his voice. (I say all of this, but you didn’t ask for such things.) (After all, you said if Lord Nobel was the one recommending me, then that would be enough...)

Thinking such things, I stay silent, when the Prince gives a trace of a wry smile.

[Yakov]: “Certainly... considering someone like yourself, that is simply absurdity.” (Huh...?) With his unexpected reply, I instinctively turn my head in his direction. Meeting my eyes, the Prince continues to speak in a tone... where I could not tell if it was of admiration or of exasperation. 

[Yakov]: “I realized it from before when we had conversed in the office―” [Yakov]: “You are the type of person who thinks for oneself, and acts according to their own beliefs and convictions.” [Yakov]: “You do not intend to gain recognition as a designer by adopting someone else’s brilliance and being a mere imitation of them.” [Kara]: “Th-That’s...” The Prince saw right through the misery I’ve been harboring ever since I came to Sybil, and my eyes widen in surprise. His eyebrows knit in apparent suspicion as he stares straight at me.

[Yakov]: “You look as if you want to say something.” [Kara]: “N-No... Your response was just different from what I had expected, so I was surprised.” (―As I didn’t realize that His Highness, in reality, actually understood me a lot...) [Yakov]: “...It is not like I have been at peace with things either.”

[Yakov]: “As the prince of a country, I believe that I have a good judge of character.” [Yakov]: “From your words and actions up to this point... and also from looking at your designs, anyone would have a firm grasp of your character.” [Kara]: “The design sketches... you looked at them?” [Yakov]: “Incidentally, while confirming your documents.” Asserting haughtily, the Prince’s blue irises subtly glint.

[Yakov]: “I know what must be going on in your head. However, even recognizing that – I cannot afford to end this farce.” [Kara]: “Why... is that so?” [Yakov]: “...Things are not limited to only when the country’s desires and my own thoughts are similar.” (That’s...) Opening my mouth, I was about to ask him what he meant by that― But before I could, a voice speaks up from behind me.

[???]: “―Yakov. So you were over here, in a place like this.” [Yakov]: “The King...” (Eh-...the King?!) Turning around, standing over there was the King and Queen. Prince Yakov’s face stiffens and he suddenly bows his head. I follow his lead and bow as well when the Prince’s voice resounds with a rigid tone. [Yakov]: “My sincere apologies. I was getting a bit of fresh air.” [King]: “Is that right...” The King’s direct line of sight casually falls onto me. The Prince takes note of this and he gives a brief introduction. [Yakov]: “The subject before you is the designer I had hired recently.” [King]: “Ah, the one recommended by Lord Nobel, is it?” [King]: “Having secured a connection with Nobel Castle, we are making more and more progress in opening the path towards becoming an ally.” [Yakov]: “...Yes.” At the Prince’s answer, as if remembering something the King continues to speak. [King]: “By the way, what of the new Minister of Foreign Affairs? I heard that the previous Minister on that seat showed considerable resistance upon the notion of dismissal, but...” [Yakov]: “The newly-appointed Minister is doing a favorable job.” [Yakov]: “As he is well-known in other countries, he performs all according to plan.” [Yakov]: “There is no need for concern.” [King]: “I see. Strive to maintain these conditions.” [Yakov]: “Understood.” Satisfied with the Prince’s words, the King takes his leave with the Queen. (...Even though they’re father and son, it’s much more like a chief and his subordinate.) (The life of royalty is like that, huh...?)  From the beginning to the end of their businesslike conversation, the Prince and King did not smile at each other. As I recall the uncomfortable feeling that hung over their entire exchange, Prince Yakov speaks with derision towards some part of himself.

[Yakov]: “...Right now, what this country needs is status – One could also call it ‘brand power’.” [Kara]: “’Brand power’...” [Yakov]: “For this country of mine, a country that only recently came into existence, to be on par with a developed country,” [Yakov]: “brand power that can be boasted among the other countries is necessary... That is the current way of thinking for Sanct Sybil.” (But, it doesn’t seem that His Highness himself wants that...) The “farce” he had mentioned earlier, along with the unspoken words he had purposefully left out, appeared to be of Prince Yakov’s true opinions on the matter. (But... Given his position as a prince, I wonder if he just can’t set things in motion based on his true feelings alone?)

➤ ok i get that it’s supposed to be his future job and all but why does it feel like yakov is doing all the legwork for this alliance while the king is sitting in the back eating some doritos. excuse me u seem pretty alive and well portraitless king what are u doing with everyones taxpayer money

Pondering these complicated thoughts, I look up at the Prince – and noticing me, the corners of his lips quirk up.

[Yakov]: “What’s the discontent face for?” [Yakov]: “If I rejoin the party, bringing in a woman that’s sulking like that – I’ll be quite troubled.” [Kara]: “It’s not that... I’m sulking, precisely...” I was about to refute his statement when he takes my hand to cut me off. [Kara]: “P...Prince Yakov...?” [Yakov]: “The piece has changed.”  ➤ musical piece fyi [Yakov]: “Let’s go.” [Kara]: “Huh....?!”

Prince Yakov returns to the party venue, and makes his way to the center of the dance hall. [Guest A]: “My, it seems that Prince Yakov is going to dance!” [Guest B]: “I’m so envious of his partner~!”

➤ mmm idk about that one friend really ot but thinking abt it... i shouldve used that one dance cg as the one for this header bc spoilers, there’s no more formal dancing after this....... fuc i assure u this is very important bc there’s only like negative 7 yakov cgs i can use that aren’t riddled with unrelated clothing (weird knight uniform, yukata, apron, no clothes at all, etc.)

(We’re attracting a significant amount of attention... with me, someone who can’t dance at all...) Feeling under pressure from the eyes of the crowd, I inadvertently hang my head. In doing so, Prince Yakov whispers to me at a volume that the surrounding guests would be unable to hear.

[Yakov]: “Even if it is just for this moment – As my partner, you must face up.” [Kara]: “’Partner’…” [Kara]: “I can’t really dance for the most part... Surely, I will humiliate Your Highness.” Even at this point, I want him to stop. I was about to call for his sympathy when I lifted my head up at him,  and unexpectedly see his face so close to mine. (Ah…) Illuminated by the glittering chandelier above, Prince Yakov was the most captivating figure out of everyone in the entire hall. His dignified appearance, along with an expression that was brimming with self-confidence― easily stole away my gaze from looking anywhere, anything else.

[Yakov]: “I already know that you cannot dance and the like.” [Yakov]: “Without thinking about unnecessary matters― if you simply look only at me, and leave your body to me – you will be fine.”

[Yakov]: “―So, do not resist me?” Taking my hand, he drops a kiss along my fingertips. His eyes gazed provocatively up at me, and my heart skipped a beat. [Yakov]: “Your face is red, you know.” [Kara]: “Th-That’s, Prince Yakov’s…” [Yakov]: “With that attitude, it shall be all right.” 

The piece began to play, and Prince Yakov pulls my waist towards him before slowly stepping in time to the rhythm.  In contrast to his high-handed words and demeanor, he leads me gently. (Amazing… even though I honestly believed that I couldn’t dance…) Just by entrusting myself to him, I’ve somehow transformed into the visage of a dancer. (Something about this is really fun…) Having fun at this party for the very first time tonight, a smile begins to naturally bloom on my face, and I nearly tread on Prince Yakov’s foot. However, the Prince elegantly evades my step before knitting his brows, muttering in a low voice.

[Yakov]: “…You truly cannot dance whatsoever.” [Kara]: “D-Didn’t I tell you that before?” [Yakov]: “But, you have the feel for it.” [Yakov]: “After tonight, be sure to practice your dancing.” [Yakov]: “―As there will be more parties akin to this one from this point forward.” (“From this point forward”…?)

At the prince’s words, I…

➢ “I must refuse.” ➢ “Understood.” ❆

 ➢ “I must refuse.” [Kara]: “I must refuse.” [Kara]: “The level of anxiety I just experienced was already too much to handle.” [Yakov]: “While dancing with me, the look on your face seemed to be as if you were enjoying yourself– so I am not so convinced.” (Ugh... I definitely was having fun dancing with him, thinking about it...) [Yakov]: “Besides- it has also been a long time for me too, enjoying myself while dancing.” ➼

 ➢ “Understood.” [Kara]: “…Understood. In-between design work, I’ll be sure to practice.” [Kara]: “Dancing is unexpectedly pretty fun.” We conversed quietly as we danced, and it somehow became even more enjoyable like that. The Prince smiles, and pulls me closer with a single sweep. [Yakov]: “Glad to hear that.” [Yakov]: “If you continued sulking about,  there would be no point in you taking the time to dress up beautifully.” ➼

➼ (Huh…?) I was surprised by his unexpected words when the piece concluded. With the end of the dance, a large applause was bestowed to the Prince. (I didn’t mishear what he just said, right...?) As I feel my cheeks heating up, the Prince leaves the dance floor. At that same moment, as if on cue – all of the princes of the other nations come and approach me.

[Roberto]: “Your dancing was soo cute!” [Keith]: “Well, for a commoner it was pretty good, huh?” [Keith]: “But if you took a better look, you could see that Prince Yakov taking the lead salvaged the entire thing.” [Edward]: “Not only the dancing - but the dress is quite stunning too.” [Edward]: “It was just as if a snow fairy came to descend from the clouds.” [Kara]: “Th…Thank you.” The Princes of the Six Kingdoms line side-by-side around me, and the atmosphere becomes especially cheerful. (Everyone– for you to treat me, someone who is just barely associated with you all, so kindly and warmly... I’m happy.) Cherishing this joy of getting to meet with the Princes again, Prince Wilfred then raises his voice.

[Wilfred]: “Now, I only heard this... But apparently, you officially became the exclusive designer for Sanct Sybil Castle.” [Glenn]: “Even though you’re still a rookie, to be suddenly put in a position like that of an exclusive designer– You’re amazing, you know.” [Wilfred]: “I think there will be things that you won’t be familiar with, but I’ll be cheering you on. Do your best.” [Kara]: “…Okay!” (There’s someone out there who’s supporting me like this...)

➤ i love.... wilfred...... this is why wil used to be numba won. his POWER so strong they had to create claude to ruin his love life. to weaken that perfection!!

 (Let’s do our best while doing things you can manage, bit by bit, in this country.) The Princes spoke to me warmly, and I strengthen my resolve once more. Prince Roberto then strikes up a conversation with Prince Yakov. [Roberto]: “By the way, I heard that Sanct Sybil will be joining the Alliance, hmm?” [Roberto]: “The Alliance hasn’t had any later additions until now, so I’m really looking forward to it.” [Yakov]: “…Mhm. I think the day Sanct Sybil will be on par with your fellow countries is soon approaching.” With Prince Yakov’s statement, the other Princes show their excitement. [Keith]: “If that happens, we’ll definitely have to celebrate, yeah?” [Roberto]: “We’re suuuper happy that we’re gaining new companions.” [Yakov]: “I am grateful for such words, but the first step is going through the discussion regarding the deliberation.” Prince Yakov’s face hardens. Seeing this, Prince Glenn then brings up something he seemed to have remembered. [Glenn]: “Speaking of which, being a member of the Alliance has all sorts of conditions to meet, right?”

[Joshua]: “That’s right.” [Joshua]: “The terms - like the stability of the economy and of public safety - are fully detailed in the treaty.”

➤ i was this close to just not giving joshua his screencap time bc this boi.... bloody useless this episode- we still stan u riceball king.... but still

[Wilfred]: “First, the most important requisite is that the country must be stable; if a major incident or form of discord comes up, it seems that one will lose their qualification to join.” [Wilfred]: “Well, there hasn’t been a case like that so far, but.” [Joshua]: “I would think that things along the lines of an ‘incident’, and prominent matters that arise, just do not happen, alas.” (Joining the Alliance is a difficult thing, huh...) I think for that reason alone, Prince Yakov thus has no choice but to act in accordance with the country’s policies. I think about that, when I hear Prince Roberto pipe up in a bright tone. [Roberto]: “Well, regardless~ I was really surprised by the cold of Sanct Sybil, but…” [Roberto]: “I was also surprised by how lively the town by this castle was.” [Joshua]: “He’s right. You can feel the passion of the country from it.” [Glenn]: “I think it might be because it hasn’t been that much time since the country unified, but it has an ambiance to it that the other six countries don’t have.” [Keith]: “The people working in this castle too only consist of those who’ve made a name for themselves. It’s to the point where I want that sorta thing for my place.”   [Edward]: “I’m looking forward to the day Sanct Sybil joins us.” [Yakov]: “…Mhm.” Prince Yakov nods, and the other Princes encourage him with their smiles. Then, Prince Roberto, looking out the window, cries loudly. 

[Roberto]: “Snow…! Everyone, look! There’s snow falling.” (Huh…?) Spurred on by Prince Roberto I shift my eyes to look out the window, and within the darkness, I see snowflakes fluttering about in their descent. [Wilfred]: “I think it only makes sense that it would get this cold. It seems Sanct Sybil has the earliest winter season out of all the other countries.” [Roberto]: “It’ll pile up ‘til tomorrow, right? If so, I wanna have a snowball fight~!” [Glenn]: “I’m not a child, so…”

  While the Princes get noisy in their lively chatter – Coming over to my side, Prince Yakov smiles with a light huff. [Yakov]: “As one would expect, it will not accumulate up until tomorrow, but over the next few days, it will all become a snowy landscape.” [Kara]: “How pretty…” [Yakov]: “I am used to such a sight, so I do not feel particularly moved by it in any way.” [Yakov]: “As you live in this country, soon you too will get used to seeing it.” [Kara]: “Is that right… I think I’ll definitely get used to it, soon enough.” (When I had listened to Prince Yakov’s speech, I felt that I was listening to the words regarding a faraway country, but...) Listening to the princes’ conversations and words of encouragement, I now truly feel that I am indeed here to be the designer of Sanct Sybil. Smiling at Prince Yakov,  I get to enjoy the first snow with the Princes for this brief moment―

To be continued...

(Letter)

From: Yakov Title: Go Practice

While dancing, I was astonished when it seemed very likely that my feet were going to be trampled on– but you appear to have some sort of potential. Dancing with you was not bad, no. Additionally... your dress was also not too bad. As the designer of Sybil Castle... you have passed.

―Yakov

Next Episode...

“But, why are you in a place like this?”

....how does yuri bother to dye those brows red every time. dedication to the craft i suppose

lol sorry about this one. i feel that ep 3 is even shoddier than what i usually put out, but when i finished ep 2 i already had a good chunk of ep 3 done so i wanted to get it over with bc this ep is mostly bad/awkward vibes ehehe

i think the next chunk will maybe be just ep 4 + special story 1. i want to include each ver of the special story (so 3 versions) so........ might take a good minute to do but idk we’ll see tbh i wanted to put ep 4 in this chunk so special story 1 could be by itself but i figured some of u would prefer to have more frequent updates. it’s been over a week since the last one so i felt like that was a bit long of a wait after just episode 1

Again, thanks for reading!

[anneboleyns]

I saw the downton abbey movie so now here’s kind of a rambling personal essay, under a cut for spoilers for the downton abbey movie. downton abbey movie spoilers ahead.

once again SPOILERS AHEAD also tw for death, grief, suicide attempts/etc mention.

so, i know probably no one cares but considering how active i was in this fandom and how incredibly important this show and the character of thomas was to me personally, i’m just gonna sit here and write my thoughts about thomas barrow, the show, the movie, what it meant to me, and my critique overall

so basically i always loved the show and thomas but it really took off 2 yrs ago during 2017.

i had just moved out of my mother’s house and i had just finished a rewatch of the show, i remember this so clearly lol it was september 2017 the rewatch had started like june 2017. and i remember when i got to my new apartment one of the “comfort shows” i would put on on my very own tv in my very own apartment was “downton abbey”. i believe the other that was regularly tossed on in the background was “the tudors”, obviously lol

anyways, i was so hyper obsessed. i had also JUST discovered that thomas and jimmy were legitimately shipped in this fandom. i had no idea that was a real thing when i watched it live. and i had never cared about jimmy or thought of them as an actual viable relationship. but with this rewatch they just hit different i guess. i spent hours and hours and hours at my mother’s house before the move (which was an EXTREMELY tense living situation, the month or so right before i left. i’m not getting into all of it now. if you followed me back then you know) watching this show like properly sitting and watching an episode with my sister, and then capping for gifs, which if you make gifs you know is basically spending possibly 3 or 4 hours with the same episode. like it can take that long for me personally to go through it and cap everything i want, then, sorting the caps into folders, especially if i’d capped more than one episode. completely mesmerized with the smallest details, hand and facial movements i specifically wanted to gif or be in a set, clothing movements, emotional moments, like i was just so into all aspects of the show and wanted to gif everything. my fav 4 are thomas, sybil, mary, and tom. i also adore edith and it may be a “fav 5″ now as i think i just love all of those characters equally. so i pretty much giffed every single fucking scene they were in lol. unless they were “ugly scenes” that i knew i could never make work in photoshop. sometimes i would cap it anyway and sort it anyway and open it up anyway and try but would end up deleting all the caps for that set. so all the gifs i have posted, is not even all the ones i capped. anyway

okay and then, there’s the fanfic. reading it, rereading, and writing it. it took me 2 years but i actually read close to every single thomas/jimmy fanfic on a03. at some point i only started opening complete fanfics because i got burned too many times on abandoned slow burns, and if a fic wasn’t my thing i would obviously not finish it. but definitely hundreds of works i read, saved to my phone and reread in google books. works i would think about all day.

so, june 2017 i start the rewatch. i also start planning to move out of my mother’s. a toxic tense living situation. in the past i have used harsher words like “abusive”. i can’t really use that word and apply it to my mother right now even though it is accurate. it hurts to think about. i can’t think about it. september 2017 i actually move.

the hyperfixation is in full swing. hours every night reading. reading 50k word fanfics in a single night. hours every day (or, week, i have a fulltime job) capping and coloring frames in photoshop. eventually i started writing fanfic for them as well.

so, in november 2017 my mother is hospitalized. this was not an unusal occurence. in february 2018 they tell us she’s going to die. 12 days later she died.

i’m not gonna really get into what happened to my mental state. it’s uh. bad. guilt. self hatred. like hatred isn’t even a strong enough word. i wanted to annihilate myself. i believed i deserved to be annihilated. that’s the only word violent enough i can think of to describe the depth of it. suicidal. etc. whatever.

but! i had this piece of fiction, this series, and assorted fan works. it really intensified after this. i can look back at this time last year and i remember how obsessed i was lol.

when i try to articulate what this character and show means to me, i always feel really embarrassed. at some point when i’m talking about thomas it becomes obvious i am talking about myself as well. but i’m gonna really try and objectively talk about my opinion on thomas and why i adore him and why i want what i want for him. it’s probably gonna be obvious i am also talking about myself but. anyway. 

here’s the “meta” “opinion on the fictional characters” section.

thomas barrow starts the show as an antagonist. he’s rude, could even be called cruel. a bully, snide, dishonest when it suits him and honest when it hurts him. like, he’s an asshole. what he said about william’s mom. how he treated baxter. his ambition and the underhanded things he does to serve it. overall proud demeanor designed to make those around him feel lesser. feel less able to hurt him. he wants the people around him to feel like they should not hurt him. i think he might be unaware that that is his motivation. because even as he’s afraid of everyone, he craves everyone as well. he’s alone, outside, and he’s been shoved there, constantly, he’s been shoved there politely and he’s been shoved there violently and if they’re gonna shove him here outside, away from them, unfixably different from them, unworthy of them, then he will stay there. like, the meanness and the comments and the attitude. he’s already Not Like The Others. if they already don’t like him, he will make it even harder for them to like him. unless, he can get somewhere safer, which is where his motivation comes in.

i just really view thomas as a character that craves safety.

he wants others to not hurt him. he wants to get from where he is to somewhere safer, somewhere up there, where it’s even less likely for people to be able to hurt him.

so, his motivations: safety, and then, there’s love.

he constantly has this world and these people implicitly and explicitly telling him he cannot love or be loved. it’s not right, it’s not natural, best case scenario is it doesn’t even exist- he’s confused, he’s sick, he’s broken, maybe they can fix it. he’s on the outside, remember, and he just gets to watch thru the window as the others dance and fall in love and have friends and family and be cherished. he can have none of it. this is a really old story that could be told by better people and in a better way.

the loves we get to see him have all have teeth. he’s betrayed by one lover and then abandoned, someone he obviously had feelings for but also betrayed first. then we get a probably one-sided attraction, but still a friend, still someone he can actually be vulnerable with since they’re helplessly vulnerable with him as well due to the circumstances. who kills himself. and then there’s the shameless, stupid hope that almost costs him everything, but he does get a friend in the balance.

he finds a friend in baxter, another character i just adore, because she gives to thomas what he needs even though he objectively does not deserve it, at least not from her, who he has terrorized. baxter’s trauma from her abusive relationship with coyle that thomas knows and uses, the impossible situation thomas places her in, the manipulation, the bullying, some would even term his behavior abusive. baxter would have had every right to ignore thomas, to get him fired, to hurt him back. but she loves him instead. she loves him in spite of. she loves him because. she helps him, she speaks to him softly and kindly. she tells him he’s brave. she remembers him as a child. this especially touches me. the idea of thomas as a child, someone who must have been different from who he is now, and she knows them both and loves him. she looks at the grown, hurt, cruel man in front of her and she speaks to the boy she once knew, and thomas listens. slowly. but he listens. AND she tries to give him advice for finding a lover, supporting and encouraging something the rest of the entire fucking series despises or ignores.

i don’t have enough energy to really go off but, baxter is supreme. i need a baxter.

thomas clearly cannot form self esteem in the environment he lives in. the ground is dead. he can’t grow it himself. he has this ironclad sense that he deserves what the others have, the ones on the inside. it’s immovable. he deserves it, they have no right to keep it from him. maybe he’ll never, ever get it, but in his mind, in his heart, he will never stop believing he deserves it. they tell him he’s nothing, he’s dirt, he’s wrong, and he just nods and keeps walking. they can think that. they can say that. he can’t stop them. but he will not stop working for the future he wants. he will not stop until they have no choice but to let him inside.

but he wants, i think, for them to invite him inside. but he’ll never admit it, and he’ll never ask for it, and he’ll never get it anyway.

so, he tries to change himself. maybe they’ll invite him in then? no.

then, his attempts to form friendships get twisted, and aborted, and he gets tired stereotypical accusations thrown on him.

then, he tries to kill himself in a bathtub with a razor.

then, he leaves his home and spends his days bored and unchallenged and away from all of the friends and half-friends he had.

then, he’s invited back. he’s invited inside!!!! you might say. and yeah i guess. as close as they’ll ever let him. but part of him always ignored and not commented on. part of him always raised eyebrows at i’m sure. and yes, his bad behavior is also to blame for this. but see, the 2 are linked. and you can’t unlink them.

by the end of the show the others still largely tiptoe around him. but due to his now somewhat subdued behavior he’s “likable” now.

i think it’s quite a choice to have this character who is completely sharp edges have them worn away by heartbreak, torture, injury, suicide attempt, ostracisation, abandonment, and present that as a victory, as a happy ending. but guess what? it is. and i’ll take it. he was back among his friends, back home, accepted, celebrating with everyone else, and i adored it, even as the jarring notes i heard in it won’t ever fade from my opinion of it.

anyway, in the aftermath of my grief i fell heavily into this story and the many stories of thomas finding love and safety. and healing, and friends, and peace. lots different from each other and lots the same. again, i relate very strongly to this character. i was not in a mindset where i was able to be kind to myself. or think sympathetically about myself. i think i fixated so much on this character, became obsessed with finding stories where he gets told and he experiences all the things i think i wanted to be told and i wanted to experience. i couldn’t accept it, even the concept, directly. but i devoured and absorbed a billion pixels of a character very similar to me accepting it. it’s the closest the concept could have gotten to me and i’m embarrassed i only recently realized this link and that that was what i was doing considering it is obvious, and common, and normal. maybe not “healthy” but like. let’s not get into healthy and unhealthy coping mechanisms rn bec i promise you the fanfic and the fiction fixation is not even at the top of the list lol

FAST FORWARD it’s september 2019. the movie is in theaters.

my mom is still dead. but. a lot has happened to me. i have happened to some people. i’ve been thru some more things now. dipped my toes and eventually completely submerged and perhaps am drowning in the entire Romance/Love/Sex section of human experience. again, let’s not get into it. but it’s a LOT. 

i don’t quite have the same relationship with fiction and fanfiction as i used to. it’s been only 2 years since leaving my mother’s house, but i feel as though galaxies could fit in between the girl back there and the one here. but they’re the same! i’m working on understanding that. 

i love this character and this show so much. i loved the film. there are problems- the writing and plotting is not nearly as neat and crisp and sharp. it’s more smooth, almost to a loss of definition, and instead of quick-wit it feels just... fast. there’s no time to really dive in in a film, so i’ll forgive all that, but it’s a flaw that should be mentioned. but it’s not a flaw that prevents joy in the film. i was overjoyed watching it. the things i wanted for thomas all happened. all the characters and relationships were... smoothed, i can’t describe it any other way. i feel like the bumps and corners and quirks and hidden pockets of them were just smoothed away. we know they’re there because we watched the show, but the film doesn’t- can’t- show them all. 

it was frustrating for me to see thomas smoothed in this way, but also satisfying, because while he absolutely one of a kind, unique, damaged, and layered, and contradictory, really a marvelous character and well-built... he is just like everyone else. and i think he would love and hate that and i love and hate that about myself.

for this reason, i really enjoyed a scene where he refuses to help carson. carson is flustered and overworked, in a crisis, and asks barrow for help, and thomas refuses, with a smile. i adored it. carson is one of thomas’ worst ... opponents, i could say. carson hurls homophobic abuse at and about thomas several times during the series, casts aspersions on him in the film as well, and he can choke. i love that even though towards the end of the show and yes during the rest of the film thomas’ sharp edges got smoothed away, but they put this one in and it catches you right on the bone how it should- an older woman in my theater actually gasped, offended, when thomas refused to help and carson was left to flounder. i, on the other hand, thought, “that’s my boy,” and leaned back in my seat satisfied. it might be my fav moment in the film. surprising considering the AMAZING joy and tenderness thomas gets to experience in the movie (but, i think that’s just my taste right now due to a personal heartbreak i won’t get into). like, they shoved him outside, carson shoved him outside, outside the realm of normal, and this is a moment of carson needing his help and thomas going, “no, remember how you used to treat me? remember how you secretly think of me? i do. i won’t forget. good luck! bye!” and then goes on to have a terrible wonderful adventure, while someone funny and kind finally falls in love with him, he gets to stand up for himself to the crawleys in the beginning of the film as well and i just felt elated watching that scene.

i could probably write essays about the love and romance portion of his storyline in the movie. but i’m just not in the headspace to do that right now super in depth but.

i’m also annoyed he had to experience yet ANOTHER homophobic plotline. he goes out to a gay club for literally The First Time and gets arrested and called a dirty pervert. i remember this being my exact fear for the movie. like “imagine if thomas goes to a gay club and gets arrested? that would suck!!!” and that is exactly what happens. but at least it’s so quick, i genuinely think that entire plot is like 6 short scenes max. why is julian fellowes obsessed with having this character, the ONE main queer character, suffer solely because he is gay? experience so many gay-specific agonies, the depths of which i just really doubt he, fellowes, can understand. it’s really, really, disappointing. but consistent as the show did this as well. smh. at least he gets out, and his lover, richard, goes to bat for him in this movie TWICE!!!!! and stares at him with stars in his eyes, soft and enamoured? while thomas is oblivious?? I’VE READ THIS FIC BEFORE!!!! so yes that was VERY cute and all i ever fucking wanted

it’s just funny how fiction touches us differently depending on what we’re going through, especially for those of us that were lonely, neglected, children, ones who grew up with favorite characters instead of friends. i might be more “normal” i might be more “sociable” i might have more “life experience” than i used to but this fangirl inside is just not going anywhere.

this was just a ramble, i wrote it with no point in mind and i’m not rereading or editing it lol. enjoy this vague update into my life/movie review/character meta lol

[supremeuppityone]

One-shot written for Klaroline AU Week 2019 Day Three: All Human

Author’s note: By popular request, this one-shot is a continuation from Chapter 77: Part 4 - Klarosummer Bingo prompt: Baseball, found in my Klaroline series A Beautiful Symmetry.

Please review here.

Curve Ball

             Was it possible to drill a hole in solid Bubinga wood with just her manicure? Caroline huffed, the glare from the highly polished conference table nearly blinding her as she impatiently waited for Klaus to finish reviewing the latest contracting language she’d revised. He’d been calling her in his office every day with increasingly ridiculous requests for contract revisions. Ever since last week’s baseball game.

           “Seriously?! You can’t expect to completely overhaul this corporation’s policy on limited liability without repercussions,” she snarled, aggressively highlighting several key phrases on her laptop.

           Klaus raised an eyebrow, not bothering to hide that patronizing grin of his as he replied, “Perhaps if your earlier drafts hadn’t been quite so ambiguous, love, we could’ve finalized the contracting language sooner.”

           “Ambiguous?! You know damn well I crafted that language per your instructions and you gave me a ridiculously exorbitant bonus after you signed off on my work!” She tossed back her hair, no longer caring that her pristine bun had become an angry ball of frizzy curls. She realized her frustration mostly stemmed from Klaus’ bizarre behavior — not only the bizarre requests regarding work projects, but also his overall demeanor.

           During meetings, she could feel his steel gaze boring into her, but anytime she caught him looking at her, his handsome face was an unreadable mask. Or, how he awkwardly ducked into various offices that she happened to be in, delivering rambling requests to subordinates as though he was scrambling for excuses to be in the room. She’d done her best to ignore her growing feelings for him, and his recent behavior definitely had her rethinking why she’d been drawn to him in the first place. He’d been weird ever since he found out her childhood best friend was Enzo St. John, his favorite baseball player. She’d heard of sports hero worship, but his childish possessiveness over his idol was getting ridiculous.

           The tips of his ears reddened as he quickly said, “Yes, well, clearly I need to take a closer look at your work if this is the subpar quality that I’ve been financing.”

           So much for the inconvenient crush she’d developed. She couldn’t recall the last time he’d pissed her off this much. Caroline slammed her laptop shut, leaping to her feet as she shouted, “The quality of my work was never an issue until this past week when something suddenly jumped up your ass and died!”

           “I should fire you for insubordination,” Klaus growled, slowly rising to lean across his desk, the steel in his gray eyes flashing.

           “Good luck with that — my employment agreement is impenetrable — I designed it,” she smugly told him, slightly taken aback by how close their faces had become. Was he seriously trying to intimidate her by staring at her like that?

           A shrill knock on the door to his office startled them, both jumping back from each other as though an electric current had passed between them. Klaus’ assistant burst in, excitedly telling them, “He’s here! He’s in the lobby and oh my god, he’s just as hot as I remember from the game!” The young brunette did a cute little wiggle at the threshold, clearly not picking up on the tension in the room.

           “April, kindly explain why you deemed it appropriate to interrupt our meeting.”

           Caroline rolled her eyes, not interested in listening to Klaus take his bad mood out on his terrified assistant. “I have a thing. Looks like he’s a bit early.”

           “Who,” Klaus asked, eyes narrowing dangerously.

           “Enzo St. John,” April said breathlessly, practically bouncing on her tiptoes.

           Caroline slipped her laptop in her bag, nodding to the starstruck girl, “Thank you, April. Please let him know I’ll be down in a minute.”

           After his assistant left, Klaus leaned against his desk, his voice dry as he remarked. “So, a thing. With Enzo.”

           “Yes, we’re going to dinner,” she said breezily, feeling her irritation flare at his tone. Was he seriously pissed that she was leaving work a few minutes early? Controlling asshat.

           He scoffed, folding his arms in front of his chest. “He’s no doubt taking you to Grayson’s, possibly the most unimaginative fine dining experience in town.”

           “Actually, I suggested Sybil’s Lair,” she snapped, adding, “they have the best brie and honey figs.”

           “Not to mention a rather saucy dinner show.”

           “Seriously?! So what if it’s a burlesque club? It’s fun and one of my favorite hangouts.” She stomped out of his office, not bothering to turn around as she barked, “And feel free to shove your Puritan hang-ups up your ass!”

           Later that night, Caroline was impressed by how quickly Enzo had made her forget all about Klaus’ odd fixation with his baseball idol. She and Enzo easily had slipped back into their snarky friendship that she hadn’t even realized she’d been missing all these years. It was hilarious to watch the staff and other customers fawn over the guy who used to get detention for making fart noises with his armpit.

           He wriggled his eyebrows, lightly tapping the rim of his Dr Pepper martini with hers. She rolled her eyes, but took another sip, still chuckling that he’d charmed the waitress into going across the street to buy their favorite soda they used to drink every day after school. However, the moonshine-soaked cherries the bartender had sent over with a flirty wink was a new and delicious surprise. “I always knew you would be a smashing success at whatever you set out to do, but I’m still so proud of all you’ve accomplished, gorgeous.”

           “Says the mega-famous baseball star.”

           He waved her off, settling more comfortably against the plush red velvet corner booth. “It was mostly luck plus me being a pain in the ass.”

           “Comforting to know some things never change,” she answered dryly, dipping another parmesan breadstick in the honey-balsamic dressing and savoring the tart sweetness on her tongue. “Like the time you didn’t study for that geography test, but made all of your answers into a bunch of haikus about how great Mr. Donovan was and you ended up with the second-highest grade.”

           “Like you didn’t do the same thing to get out of doing that stupid book report with Miss Sommers when you told her you were having boy trouble because everyone knew she’d been dumped.”

           Giggling, they signaled a waitress wearing a fluffy red and black feather boa and little else to bring them another round.

           “Ah, memories. So nice to see you two getting reacquainted,” Klaus’ biting voice rang out, startling them both as they realized he was standing at their table, an attractive redhead clinging to his side.

           Caroline was taken aback by how all the breath seemed to leave her body as she noticed the way Klaus threw his date a sexy grin, not bothering to look at Caroline as he openly admired the woman’s halter dress whose every dip and slit of fabric revealed toned expanses of creamy skin. At least she knew what Klaus’ type looked like — gorgeous in an unapproachable way, tall, angular, and quite vicious if that predatory gleam in her green eyes was anything to go by. And she was none of those things. Not that she cared.

           “Yup, it feels like we were never apart — gorgeous and I have quite the bond, mate,” Enzo lazily answered, lightly patting Caroline’s hand. He squinted up at Klaus, a mischievous twinkle in his dark eyes as he added, “Don’t I know you from somewhere?”

           Caroline noted an angry red flush creeping up Klaus’ neck (which unfortunately did nothing to detract from how unfairly attractive he looked in his crisp blue dress shirt). She hurriedly explained, “Klaus and I work together; he was at your game last week.”

           Enzo snapped his fingers, telling him, “That’s right! I signed a bunch of Augustine Tigers merchandise for you. It was great for the old ego.”

           “Those were for my brother,” Klaus snapped, an unfamiliar look of alarm in his eyes.

           “But I thought you were Klaus? You and your brother have the same name — must’ve been bloody confusing growing up, eh?”

           Klaus sneered, not bothering to acknowledge the redhead dragging her sharp nails teasingly along his arm. “Of course — almost as confusing as a two-time, top-five MVP experiencing a career low batting average right before playoffs.”

           Outraged by Klaus’ smug expression, Caroline opened her mouth to defend her friend when Enzo gently squeezed her hand, a movement that Klaus curiously followed with his steely gaze. “Not to worry, gorgeous. I think I understand what has Klaus in a right strop.”

           Obviously tired of being ignored, the redhead seemed to take a more direct approach and whispered something in Klaus’ ear that had him stand a bit straighter as he smirked, “Yes, well, enjoy your evening then. I’ll see you around, Caroline.”

           Caroline raised an eyebrow, still not entirely sure what happened as she watched his date possessively drag Klaus away from their table. She threw back the rest of her martini in one swallow, secretly pleased that their attentive waitress already was sliding a fresh drink in front of her. “Well, that was...seriously, I have no earthly idea what the hell that was.”    

           Enzo snorted, pausing briefly to applaud the red sequin and black body paint-speckled dancers that appeared on onstage to start their second show. “Bollocks. Can’t say I’m not a bit disappointed at this development, gorgeous — but it seems you’re smitten with Klaus. And he’s certainly quite taken with you.”

           Wait — what?

[anxiousstark]

緣分 ⎪Yuanfen {3}

Pairing: Tony Stark x Reader.

Summary: A relationship by fate or destiny; the blinding force of two people. But it is more difficult than that.

Warnings: None.

Word Count: 1462.

A/N: None.

All Rights Reserved. The author, me, don’t allow any type of copy or adaption.

IMPORTANT: Tony Stark is 45 years old in this story and the reader is 28.

"That was Thor's favourite mug!" Clint hollered when Y/N had completely destroyed it.

Natasha had decided, something that was obvious, that they had to help her handle her powers, but apparently, it wasn’t going to be as easy as they thought.

"It's okay." Thor responded quickly before Y/N could apologize. "It was my favourite cup, but it’s okay. You're learning to control your powers. I can buy another one anyway!" He beamed when he saw that the girl was a little embarrassed. And who wouldn’t be?

She had tried to grab a million things, and all of them had burned and disappeared. Now, in the living room and kitchen, there was a burning smell. Everyone could see that Y/N wanted to stop "practising" and that she preferred to sit on the floor without disturbing anyone and without having to pick up or touch anything.

"Could you get me the coffee pot in that little closet?" Steve pointed to one of the cabinets where they kept coffee and some other spices. "Try it." He offered a small smile.

“Try it, you can do it. Remember that minutes ago you were able to dress and nothing happened to the clothes."

She took a breath through her nose, trying to convince herself that she could do it. She imagined in her head how she would open the cabinet without any problem and how she would take out the coffee and then give it to Steve.

Her hand slowly gripped the handle of the cabinet.

"Can’t you ask her to take out something else?" Hawkeye's voice rang in the background, deconcentrating and ending the calm air that she was feeling. "I can’t live without coffee."

The door began to produce bubbles quickly and broke loose from the closet, falling to the floor. Y/N could feel her heart pounding and a lump in her throat. She looked at the others, who were looking back at her. She thought they were all angry when in fact they were worried about what she might be feeling. Nobody liked to fail.

Tony appeared, walking into the kitchen, finally leaving his lab for a while. He looked around and quickly knew what was happening. "Oh my goodness." He said when he examined the cabinet.

Y/N closed her eyes and bit her lower lip. Tony didn’t seem to be a bad person, but anyone would lose patience with her and her powers, or so she thought.

"Oh my goodness!" Tony repeated it again. "Thank goodness that someone has broken the cabinet! I already have the excuse I needed to be able to remodel the kitchen." He smiled when the young woman looked perplexed at him. "Thank you."

"I'm sure if it had been the other guy, he would have screamed at me." Bruce whispered beneath his breath.

"Probably." Clint murmured back. He scowled as he looked at the girl, but then noticed another gaze on him and decided to look for where it came from. Natasha. She looked at him furiously, and he knew immediately that she wasn’t pleased with the attitude he was having. Clint wasn’t going to accept her so easily.

"There is a room ready for you to spend the night." Tony addressed his words towards Y/N. "I hope it's up to your liking even though it’s not much. Tomorrow you could go with Natasha to buy clothes." He saw the girl open and close her mouth without stating anything. "Yes, that means you can stay in. As long as you help us and tell us anything you can remember about yourself, you can stay with us."

"Thankfully, the entire building has surveillance camer-" Clint couldn’t finish his sentence when a great force was against his stomach and then against his back. A great pain ran through his body. Thor had thrown his hammer at him, and Clint had ended up against a wall due to the force. Thor’s hammer against his abdomen, keeping him in place.

Everyone stared at Thor, in shock. "I was tired of his remarks." He muttered, glancing sideways at the new girl. In the past, Thor had had to endure derogatory comments, and he knew that despite ignoring them, those comments could do a lot of damage.

"Good thing, I was going to hit him." Natasha reacted, relieved.

"The other guy almost appears because of his comments."

"I don’t believe in violence to solve problems until it is necessary." Steve paused, looking at his friend who was trying to take the hammer off. Then, he looked at Y/N. "And this was necessary." "I think we all need to go to bed already." The captain added.

A great pain flooded her head. She tried to think about where she had come from and why there was a constant pain in her heart. She felt that she was trying to escape from someone, but from whom? Who was she trying to escape from and why didn't she remember anything?

She tried to stop thinking, but every time she tried to ignore those thoughts, they flooded back in a more aggressive way.

Lying on "her bed" looking towards the ceiling of the room, there were small stickers in the form of stars that illuminated part of the room. She couldn't help but smile.

She leaned on her right side and closed her eyes, letting the soothing smell of the sheets help her sleep and calm her heartbeat. And when it seemed that her body was falling into a dream abyss, a few small knocks at the door sounded.

She got up from the bed trying not to touch anything with her hands and slowly approached the door. She was afraid to open it, thinking that those people who were looking for her could be behind the door with the mission of capturing her or doing something horrible. But at the thought that it could be Tony, she managed to turn the doorknob without damaging it.

When she opened the door, the smile disappeared from her face. There was no one there.

She was going to close the door when she realized there was a package wrapped in a green paper on the floor. She crouched down, sat on the floor and looked at the package curiously before opening it or touching it. She noticed that there was a white note on top of the package.

'I think they will be of help, I designed them myself. Tony S :) '.

The smile returned to her face and she quickly opened the package and the smile disappeared again from her mouth when she saw what Tony had designed for her.

Gloves.

They were red gloves with some details in light blue. Y/N realized that when she was in the kitchen with the other Avengers, Tony had not been with them. He had been in his laboratory creating gloves that would allow her to touch things without burning them until she learned to control her powers.

She noticed how her eyes filled with tears and she felt guilty for some reason, but at the same time, she was happy that someone cared about her. Without taking another second, she put on her gloves and went back to her room, closing the door behind her.

Tony was hiding at the end of the corridor, trying to see Y/N's reaction after having created those gloves for her. For a moment he couldn't see her reaction because her hair covered her face, but then he could see a big smile and couldn't help but smile back. Then, he felt a small pain in his chest, his reactor seemed full of energy for some reason.

⎪ MASTERLIST ⎪

“What happens when two people meet by fate but it is physically impossible to be together?”

TAG YOURSELF

Taglist: @vesta-ro  ⎪ @lovely-geek  ⎪ @kasiarella  ⎪ @leia-saveourskins  ⎪ @supernaturallover2002  ⎪ @alexandria-argent  ⎪ @amanda-m-111  ⎪ @mybabyboytony  ⎪ @loverholland  ⎪ @buckybear97  ⎪ @havanaangel  ⎪ @queenylime  ⎪ @shallowshawn ⎪ @princessonly2 ⎪ @butterfly-writes⎪@the-frenchiest-fry-16 ⎪@a-manduhhhhh⎪ @stupididi0t ⎪ @spaceyabbs ⎪@fairies-and-glitter ⎪ @vibhati123  ⎪ @sugamin-suga⎪@button-writtings ⎪ @officialmarvelwhore ⎪ @ellenjl ⎪ @moony127 ⎪ @velvetgcf  ⎪@imnotmadeofstars  ⎪ @moony127  ⎪ @baaangchan  ⎪ @thevanishedillusion  @txnystarkimagines  ⎪ @selinbaskaya  ⎪ @ifellinlovewithabrokenheart  ⎪ @renesmeeharelds  ⎪ @xjodieee  ⎪ @vibhati123  ⎪ @sybil-howlett  ⎪ @billiondollarworth  ⎪ @la-reine-cblog  ⎪ @ptersparkers  ⎪ @futuremrsb-r-main  ⎪ @nerdyphysicghostfarm  ⎪ @I-melancholy-breeze-I  ⎪ @catccafe  ⎪ @exo-angenie  ⎪ @imdoingathingmom

THOSE THREE PEOPLE IN BLACK I CAN’T TAG THEM!!!

[birdnormal]

Oh yes please!! That would be really good :D

okay!

explaining transistor: an attempt

(under read more)

a city exists called cloudbank. it’s a strange place that seems to run on rules not quite like our reality; in particular, mass consensus, moderated thru semi-autonomous programs, can influence the design and layout of the city, the weather, and a bunch of other factors. additionally, everybody can (and is expected to) choose selections, which per dev interviews actually make you better/more naturally talented at the things you choose.

because of the modularity of the city, things tend to come and go quickly; buildings are replaced by parks, parks by lakes, lakes by rivers, rivers by buildings, etc etc. nothing lasts, and everything is in a state of cycling flux. a tiny handful of people are dissatisfied with this, each for their own particular reasons, their general motto being “when everything changes, nothing changes”. they feel that the cycling nature of things is stifling original thought, preventing great ideas from having time to mature, etc. but there’s not much they can do but talk about it. they call themselves the camerata.

one of their members, the engineer/architect royce bracket, has... a bit of a breakdown. he finds himself focused on the patterns of the changing flux, the questions the terminals offer, the structured ways the city changes on and on. he sort of... has what’s implied to be a long derealization episode where he ends up kind of thinking about things Sideways, and eventually his work and his thinking lead him to fairview, a perpetually-incomplete district of cloudbank. there he finds the transistor.

the transistor is, basically, an admin debug tool. it lets the user ignore the consensus decisions that govern cloudbank, instead writing the world as they will. it also lets royce find the process - the programs and entities running behind the scenes, that secretly are the ones bringing about these massive overnight changes. finally, the transistor has a unique property where those who are killed by it are also kind of integrated into it - their thoughts and ideas can still be heard, and they yield new programs the transistor can use.

and the camerata come up with a plan with this all. (and also build a beach resort and maybe adopt a dog, which, like, can you blame them,)

they can’t risk directly expanding their circle of four, but they can find the brilliant talents pushed aside by cloudbank’s nature and, well, download them. take their voices and their views and use them to, eventually, paint a better cloudbank. so they start, uh, killing people, and then killing people who investigate them, and like. maybe this is the part where they should reconsider some,

anyways, one of their targets is a singer named red, known for her semi-subversive lyrics and for having caused a minor riot once. red... possibly had a past thing with a camerata member, sybil, but she’s now dating someone who like nobody knows much of anything about who apparently didn’t even make selections which is basically unheard of. sybil is, um. not handling this the best, and specifically sets things up so that red’s boyfriend will be there right along with her and leap in front of the transistor for red

and it works! but hitting the wrong target, and one who basically isn’t registered at ALL in cloudbank’s data, fucks everything up. the transistor glitches out at being fed null data, resets who its user is, and loses its connection to “home”/the rest of cloudbank, removing the fancy reality-writing functions and the control over the process.

and the process, getting a null signal from the command center, basically goes ‘well, fuck. reboot time’ and starts chewing thru the city and everything in it, blanking it out to prepare for a new boot.

red picks up the transistor containing her boyfriend and some other people and sets out to try and figure out what the absolute FUCK is going on. she encounters the camerata along the way - sybil is half-processed, the husbands asher and grant decide to just bow out, and royce, uh, rambles at her thru a tv screen for like an hour. man just never shuts up.

red gets to the cradle, plugs the transistor back in, everything goes to hell for a bit sort of inside the cradle/transistor setup bc it detects two possible users and can’t sort out the system conflict so you have to kick royce’s ass, and red gets godlike power over cloudbank because the connection is restored! hooray!

...and then she finds out she can’t do the one thing she wanted to with that power, and things end poorly.

[machihunnicutt]

What the Downton Movie Owes Me (but will probably not give me): Some Thoughts on Thomas Barrow

yes...I wrote 1k+ words on this. I’m so sorry.

I’m watching Downton Abbey for the 3rd (4th?) time with my sister who hasn’t seen it. I love this glorified soap opera to death, y’all, with the full acknowledgment that this show does a horrible job with a lot of its plot lines designed to tackle complicated issues: disability (the ableism against Bates via the house that he never gets apologies for, Matthew and his spinal injury/wheelchair that is always framed as life-ending and making him nothing but a “burden”), class (the Branson/Sybil marriage is alright, but there are countless missed opportunities to interrogate the relationship between upstairs and downstairs, particularly Carson’s attachment to a family that monopolizes his life and the lives of all its employees), (I’m going to leave race and gender alone because I think it does a pretty decent job when these issues come into play but feel free to lmk if there’s something I missed!), and sexuality, which is what I want to get into.

So granted, I understand that I’m not the target audience for this show. I understand that Downton’s gay characters were not written primarily to be relatable, multifaceted representations of gay people in a period drama. I get that Downton’s target audience is older, straight people for which representation isn’t super important. But, I have watched this show at least 3 times now and I’m still angry about its treatment of Thomas Barrow, so I’m going to break down why:

1) Things We Know About Thomas Barrow

I really like early seasons of Downton because, for all its drawn out drama and plot twists, it cares a lot about character development and consistency. Many characters (dare I say the majority) do mean and bad things and yet, we are still empathetic because we’ve spent time with them, understand why they make the choices they do, and see them learn from their mistakes (early seasons Mary is an excellent example.)

Thomas Barrow is my favorite Downton character because of the great narrative work they do in this regard. In the first episode we learn several character traits of his that continue to be important throughout his arcs:

- He doesn’t trust easily and has few friends in the house. (AKA, boy’s got a bad attitude. It’s better to act like you hate everyone than give them the chance to reject you.) I found this immediately endearing (because of who I am I guess lol), and though I understand why people don’t like his character because of this, I think it’s a good move for a character you intend to have grow over a long period of time. Opening up, accepting help from others, and showing kindness are all parts of Thomas’ future storylines, actions that show his slow growth from this facet of his character. I also think it’s important to note that when Thomas does make friends he is loyal to them (I’m excepting O’Brien from this category given there’s so much backstabbing between them that it’s a stretch to call them friends) and will take risks to protect them (Examples: befriending Lt. Courtenay and later fighting Dr. Clarkson to keep him at the hospital; befriending Lady Sybil and speaking kindly about her when he doesn’t have nice things to say about anyone else upstairs, later earnestly mourning her death in a show of vulnerability he generally masks; befriending Jimmy and looking out for him when he gets drunk at the fair, going as far to get beaten up to save Jimmy; befriending Andy and helping him learn to read; befriending the kids of the house and saving them from that one nasty nanny who was mistreating them.)

- He’s a romantic. The man wants to be loved and jfc I wish the show gave him a good love interest.

- He’s easily manipulated. (More on this later, but for now...) The Duke plays him, and it’s cruel, but it shows how easily Thomas can be tricked when he’s offered affection and the chance to leave Downton for something better. (Also note: from day one, he’s wanted to leave Downton!)

- He’s the evil gay trope. The gay villain trope has a long and complicated history and sure, you can say Thomas’s sexuality and role as an antagonist aren’t connected, but the show doesn’t exist in a vacuum and it feeds into a long history of villainizing LGBT and LGBT coded characters. The thing I hate most is that they get really close to subverting it in Thomas’ best moments (his work in the hospital during the war, his relationship with the kids, his gradual opening up to people in the house) but alas...

2) Why I Hate The Jimmy Kent Arc More Than Anything

Okay, so it makes sense for Thomas to be manipulated by O’Brien. That’s consistent with his character and I don’t fault the show for melodrama because that’s what it does. What I hate, is that the show depicts Thomas’ attraction to Jimmy as predatory and when he is punished for trying to kiss Jimmy while he’s asleep (which is assault) the house (and I’d argue, the show) frames this as bad only because Thomas is gay and Jimmy is not. In the show’s narrative Jimmy is mad because he’s homophobic, not because he’s been violated. And his and Jimmy’s ensuing friendship would be genuinely sweet if it really was just an issue of homophobia and not one of ASSAULT!

I’d argue, you can’t have it both ways. You can’t portray Thomas as predatory and then brush it aside to make a statement about tolerance, because assaulting people is bad regardless of the sexuality of the perpetrator. You either need to punish his actions for what they are or get better at story telling and not rely on the predatory gay stereotype.

But, secondarily, I’m bothered by this arc because it doesn’t seem in character, to me. I know Thomas does a lot of bad, stupid things, but I don’t think it makes sense for him to be predatory. In his best moments he is protective, romantic, and loyal. Yes, we see him as rash and naive, but his actions never felt right for the character, to me. I just think it’s lazy writing to handle his attraction to Jimmy this way, especially given the development of their friendship afterward. It would’ve been so much more satisfying and narratively interesting for Thomas to express his feelings for Jimmy in a respectful way. Jimmy is the only character we see Thomas have genuine feelings for (not motivated by upward mobility as in the case of the Duke or I guess(?) racial stereotyping in the case of Kemal Pamuk...but lbr his pass at him was mostly a plot device) and I think the arc would’ve been so much more fulfilling if we saw it as Thomas’ attempt to love someone fully and honestly, even if it ultimately doesn’t work out the way he wants it to. And I don’t get why they didn’t do this! Because the Jimmy/Thomas friendship ends up being sweet, and useful for each character’s development. They just had to make it gross by beginning with an assault. Just a huge, lazy, waste of a potentially good idea.

3) The Last Season Was Bad For A Lot Of Characters But They Did Thomas Extremely Dirty

I don’t know where to start with the last season because I think they ran into so many problems because they forgot how to use great characters effectively (Mary is a prime example!!) and started just throwing them into dramatic situations for the sake of plot and not keeping actions consistent with established character.

For example, life at Downton is the roughest it has ever been for Thomas in season 6, to the point where he is alienated by most in the house (I’m not going to talk about how badly Carson treats him and how much of a tyrant Carson is in the last season because again, I think it comes down to the writers forgetting how to use their characters effectively) and attempts suicide. All in all, I just don’t like this because it’s predictable and overdone. Gay people in period pieces almost always have overwhelmingly tragic stories and it’s not fun for me to watch anymore. What most disappoints me though, is that when everyone else is getting paired off in the fan-servicey ending, Thomas’ consolation prize is being the butler??? To a house full of people who’ve hated him??? He’s wanted from the beginning to leave Downton and in the end he doesn’t.

Don’t get me wrong, if the show had shown me his change in attitude and relationship to the house, given me this character development in meaningful ways, and not used a suicide attempt as a half-assed catalyst for change, I would be all for Thomas as Downton’s butler. I think that if they’d done the work of making it a believable and constructive next step for his character, that I’d really like it. I think Thomas’ relationship with the kids (particularly George! I’d watch a whole movie about that!) is well done and I think it echos Carson’s relationship with Mary, but better. But you! have! to! do! the! work! to! get! the! audience! there! You can’t give me a whole season of Downton nastiness and Thomas suffering and then expect me to buy that this is his happy ending.

4) What I Want From This Movie

I don’t think I’ll get it (though a love interest for Thomas via the trailer is encouraging), but here’s what I want:

- Show me why Thomas Barrow as Downton butler makes sense. And if you can’t, let him leave and be happy somewhere else because he deserves it.

- Show me how he’s grown. Show me his relationship with the kids and how he’s better than Carson because I need it!!

- Let Thomas be in a relationship that is healthy and not manipulative or coercive or a plot device for drama.

- Let him be in love and don’t make it a sad story. Please.

I find Thomas Barrow such a compelling character because he isn’t perfect. He makes mistakes. He does bad things. He grows. He changes over the course of six seasons. He’s a gay character in a period drama whose story isn’t about being ashamed of who he is. It isn’t about denial or apologies or pretending he’s someone he isn’t. And I think that’s significant. I just wish they’d done a slightly better job. :)

(Thanks for reading. I’m gonna keep being a Thomas Barrow stan even when no one watching with me thinks I’m valid lol.)

[zscalatian]

A Tailor's Boutique

“Who was that that just left?” Cici came out from the back room with a vest and trouser set hanging from her arms.  No one was in the shop, but the jangling door bell was still ringing.

One of Katejina’s long ears turned toward her, but the viera didn’t look up from the scarves she was organizing on a rack.  “One of Migelo’s errand runners.”

Cici set the clothes down on the long wooden counter, and began wrapping the vest in brown paper.  Would it be crude of her to try and get the paper back after delivery?  Yes, probably.  Unfortunate.  She needed every cent she could save, but a reputation for cheapness could only harm her business.   “Ah, good old Migelo.  He’s good to look after the orphans that way.  What is it he needs?”

“Looking for extra fabric for the Sundries shop.”

“Well…” She looked around the narrow shop - the handful of cloth and wood manikins modeling her work, the folding screens and low stools tucked neatly to the sides.  The manikins looked a little shabby, but the sunstone lanterns produced a satisfactory gleam and glitter from the tall glass mirrors, brightening the windowless room.   Nothing here for Migelo.  She returned to the door of the back room, even though its contents were etched in her mental inventory.  Mostly empty shelves, with only a few bolts of dyed or pattern-woven cotton, silk, and wool remaining of the old prosperity.  One dear and lovely bolt of indigo-dyed velvet.  Spools of lace from Sybil, a widow now, who’d moved down to low town, doing her tatting by lantern light.  Fine leather from the tanners by the (south) gate.  A rack of embroidery thread, now sadly limited in selection, and most poorly-made.

With a pang, she recalled the days before the war, and even further back, before the plagues.  The beauteous rainbow of colors, the finger-pleasing selection of textures.  Most of what she had now was already earmarked for this garment or that one.  

“I think we’ve only got scraps for mending available, maybe something for a Moogle.  I’m using that wool -” she pointed to a drape of drab wool dyed to a pleasant green by dandelion blossoms, “- for Swena’s vest and and accents to her bodice, and that leather is for Tamiel’s new trousers.” And the portly Bangaa would certaintly be in need of most all of it.  She let out a sigh, shaking her head.  “I shouldn’t complain.  Most everyone is low on supplies in these dim days.”  

After the plagues, then the war, so many young people dead, the farmlands of Dalmasca weren’t producing as they once had.  Few farms had seeded cotton and flax last year, and drab wool was nearly non-existent, though she supposed that was what would come back first, as Giza rabbits bred like… well, rabbits.  Fabric made from cockatrice and nanna feathers would hopefully be back by next year.  As for silk… she shivered.  The great mulberry orchards of Nabradia had been greatly decimated by the catastrophe of Nabudis.  Rabanastre’s walled gardens could not make up the deficit.  

For now, her daily walks through the bazaar tended to result in fabrics and leathers made of wolf pelts.  Aside from the bad luck inherent in dressing in the skin of an animal grown fat on corpses, the quality was hit or miss and they didn’t take dyes well.  If only a hunter would bring in something from one of the many wooly gator species.  Perhaps she could put up a mark.

Scarves properly arrayed, Katejina went past her to straighten the shelf of leather gloves.  The viera looked at them critically and asked, “Perhaps we should start learning imperial styles?”

Cici glanced over as well - the gloves were embroidered with traditional patterns from the desert and plains, as well as some of her own designs, and only appealed to the occupying Archadians as souvenirs or novelties.  “I suppose we’ll have to start catering to them now.”  She didn’t really want to, but business was business.

She would never give up selling Dalmascan styles, the vests and bright sashes, the loose-fitting trousers, but she thought of the outfits worn by off-duty Archadian soldiers - they featured less embroidery, more paneling, more embossing…  From a fashion perspective, there were interesting ideas at play there.  “It wouldn’t hurt to have a few things.”  

She mostly did tailor made, but a few ready-made small things for homesick soldiers…

“Wrap me up some of those scraps, I’ll take them over to Migelo’s since I’m going to deliver this to Lunais.”

“Very well.”

Now where, by the gods, could she find someone to teach her imperial styles?