#he mentions venus flytraps so points for it

[buttercatrho]

anitober day 23

ourple

[musingmeaninglessly]

In Deep ; Neteyam x Fem!Human! Reader

Summary: When Tuk gets stuck underwater, there's only one person who can save her...

Lil bit angsty, lil bit fluffy. If you're sensitive to matters related to drowning, I suggest you skip this story.

If not, then enjoy! 💙

"Aaaand, I'm officially done."

Hands burning, you release the final inky braid of your boyfriend's that you've been working on.

Leaning his head back against your lap from his seat on the floor, Neteyam's glimmering eyes meet yours as he beams.

"Thank you, yawntutsyìp, what would I do without you?"

You don't get a chance to answer as he gently pulls your face down to meet his, the glass of your exopack chilly against his forehead. When he finally releases you, he's smiling wider than ever, but the same can't be said for the other figure present.

Sharpening her spear, Neytiri's glare never leaves you. Throughout the six month's worth of courting her son, you've never once been able to win her approval. Seeing her pride and joy be practically polluted by a damned tawtute was not her vision for the eldest Sully child.

And you felt that. Even without the prejudices against your species, what could you possibly offer her family? You lack the basic genetics that make the Na'vi so wondrous, not to mention the survival skills and intelligence. No matter how much Neteyam tells you otherwise, you feel inferior. And Neytiri's hostility doesn't help.

Yet in spite of it al, Neteyam had been defiant of his mother for the first time in his life. And it was all in pursuit of you; his star girl, his little love, his mate.

He catches your worrisome look and follows your eyes over to his mother's. With a sigh, he frowns at her silently, but her eyes remain the same, burning more ferociously than the campfire between you. No one says a thing; well, no one actually gets the chance.

"Help! HELP! It's Tuk!!"

The sound of Kiri's voice is the only thing that snaps Neytiri's attention away from you and her son. The teenage girl sprints over to where you all rise from your seats in a panic. She's gasping for breath and drenched from the ocean's waters.

Neteyam takes a step towards his sister, flashing you a worried, yet warm, look before he does so. Ever the level-headed communicator, he puts a hand on her shoulder, "Kiri, slow down. What's happened?"

"We- me, Lo'ak and Tuk- were free diving, and she spotted that new species of coral- you know, the one Norm told us about?"

Your eyes widened at that- you knew exactly which species she was talking about. A mysterious unnamed specimen with the ability to interact with the energy around it, not dissimilar to the Venus Flytrap plants you'd read about on Earth. Norm had told you all about this new discovery made by one of the botanists, detailing it's features and abilities. It was honestly quite fascinating; powerful, alive, dangerous.

"This new species, yes, I remember." Neteyam's green eyes transform with an amber hue just as Neytiri begins bombarding Kiri with a million questions.

"Well, we went to get a better look at it, and I told Tuk not to touch, but she didn't listen!" Kiri begins to cry, her face wracked with guilt. By this point, several overhearing Metkayina have joined the scene, "It's got her!"

"I can't reach her...the gap in the coral is too small..." Lo'ak suddenly appears on land, visibly exhausted.

"Can't we cut her free?" Neteyam sensibly suggests, but his siblings shake their heads.

"We tried, but whenever you cut a piece, even more grows!" Kiri wailed, prompting Lo'ak to put an arm around her. You make a mental note to suggest the name 'Hydra' to Norm once this is all over. "There's a gap in the coral-"

"-I will go!" Neytiri booms, ridding herself of her bow and spear. Lo'ak, however, stops her in her tracks.

"It's no use, mother! The gap is way too small, I couldn't fit through it..."

You squeeze Neteyam's hand sympathetically, and when his amber eyes meet yours, you get an idea. Amidst all the commotion, the panicked voices and desperate dives into the water, it all becomes crystal clear to you.

"I'll get her out."

Everyone's attention snaps over to you in an instant, not quite believing what you've just said.

"My love, it's far too dangerous! What if the water leaks into your mask?" Neteyam kneels down in front of you, sternness lacing his features. You simply shake your head.

"I'm the only one who can reach her and fit through the gap, I must go."

Neteyam exchanges a worried glance with his siblings, ignoring his mother's scornful expression. Lo'ak and Kiri nod to him, and he knows what he has to do.

"Then I will go with you."

"What's going on?"

Jake suddenly appears with Tonowari, presumably returning from some sort of meeting.

"No time to explain, Dad. Please could you fetch Y/N's spare mask?" Neteyam briefly requests, and is met with a nod of his father's head.

Meanwhile, you hurriedly rid yourself of your blouse. It's a flowing, loose fabric- certainly not appropriate for swimming. With no other choice, you're left in your bra before taking Neteyam's hand and diving into the water.

Lo'ak and Kiri promptly follow, helping you get down to the specific spot. Several other Metkayina follow you in, unable to help, but worried for the youngest Sully.

When you see Tuk, you have to do your best not to panic. She's more-or-less unconscious, limbs entangled in the coral's moving tendrils. Neteyam's grip on your hand tightens, but you place yours on his chest, wordlessly reassuring him, and he lets you go.

Lo'ak helps you over to the small gap in the coral. It's no wonder the siblings struggled, the opening is barely wide enough for a human to fit through. Yet, somehow you do, mindful of the fact that one wrong move would put you in the exact same situation as Tuk. With that in mind, you carefully make your way to her body after taking Lo'ak's knife from him.

There's really no other choice but to cut Tuk free, but you have to make quick work of it. Thankfully, your nimble fingers are up to the task as the Sully siblings watch on desperately.

But, amidst your hard work, you fail to notice that the suction lining of your exopack had come slightly free along your jaw, letting in a small trickle of water and, in turn, a whisper of oxygen out.

Neteyam goes to lunge towards you, noticing a small amount of water build up in your mask. But Lo'ak holds him back, signing that you're fine.

That's what you try to tell yourself as you hold your mask to your face tightly, cutting away at the last couple of coral tendrils. When you give Kiri the signal, she slashes an opening above you, and you haul Tuk's body out of the coral entrapment before the tendrils can grow back.

The rest of it becomes a blur. The Sully siblings are at your side in an instant, hauling you and Tuk up the surface. Your mask continues to fill with water and once it floods above your nose, you hold your breath. But, by some miracle, your head soon breaks through the water's edge above you.

Kiri and Lo'ak take Tuk from you while Neteyam wraps his arms firmly around your waist. "It's going to be alright, my love, we're almost there..."

He continues to murmur to you comfortingly through his own panic, finally reaching Jake and grabbing for the spare mask. "I'm going to take this off, alright?"

You have no time to acknowledge his words before your mask is swiftly swept off of your face and the new, dry, undamaged replacement is secured against your skin. You gasp in jagged breaths, only now processing it all as Neteyam bundles you against him.

"My brave, brave girl..." he whispers into your hair, cupping the back of your head as you both float in the water. For a moment, the both of you seem to forget about Tuk, and it's only when you hear her coughing back on the shore that you remember.

"Oh, thank Ewya!" Neytiri gasps, sobbing hysterically as she reaches to comfort her youngest daughter. "Don't you ever do that again, do you hear me child?!"

Tuk nods with a cry, before rushing over to you. "Y/N, you saved me! Thank you, thank you, thank you..."

The rest of the family smile at the two of you, Jake and Lo'ak thanking you profusely while Kiri joins yours and Tuk's group hug.

"Hey, hey, careful. She needs to breathe..." Neteyam protectively instructs, gently pulling his sisters off of you. You smile at them and mouth a silent 'thank you' to your boyfriend, before turning to hug him as he kneels to your height.

"My love," Neteyam's deep voice draws a soft smile from you as he tenderly cups your cheek, "you were so brave."

You can't help blushing at his praise, but grasp at his hand that's cupping your exopack-covered cheek and pull him closer. "You would've done the same if you could have, ma 'Teyam..."

The longer you hold him, the more pronounced the little sniffles heard from him become. Pulling back, you eye him worriedly, 'What is it, 'Teyam? Are you alright?"

Coaxing his eyes open by running the pads of your fingers beneath them, his tearful irises meet yours. "I could've lost you, little one..."

"But you didn't," you gently remind him, holding his hand over your heart, "I'm here, and I love you. Okay?"

Neteyam nods forcefully, almost as if an absence of the action would make you disappear. Yet, his eyes never leave yours. Not even for a moment.

"I love you...so deeply...even deeper than the waters you just braved for my sister..."

Now it's your eyes that overflow with salty tears and you throw your arms around Neteyam's broad shoulders. "I love you, 'Teyam...Nga yawne lu oer..."

"Y/N,"

The sound of your name breaks up the tender moment prematurely, and you spring away from Neteyam. In truth, you'd forgot that his family, and several people from the Metkayina tribe, were watching.

It had been Neytiri's voice that cut through the sweet moment like a knife through butter. You gulp, craning your neck to face the Sully matriarch, who's shrugging off her mate's hand from her shoulder.

You're surely for it now.

But to your pleasant surprise, she drops to her knees and hangs her head in..shame? Eyes wide, you look at her children and Jake, wondering what on Pandora you're supposed to do now. But they all smile softly.

"Forgive me. I've underestimated you, thought you like them. But you saved my child at your own risk. I was wrong."

You can tell that Neytiri's English isn't quite advanced enough to fully communicate her thanks. But it's there in her eyes.

"Please, forgive me..."

With a gentle nod of your head, you smile. You never expected Neytiri to see you as anything other than a Sky Person, but you really didn't expect her to grab at you and pull you into a hug.

Your arms raise to your side in surprise, and the look on your face is clearly comical enough to make Lo'ak burst out laughing- until Jake smacks him up the side of his head. Tentatively, you return Neytiri's hug. "I forgive you..."

"You are good for my son," Neytiri pulls back to look at you with a warmth you've never seen before, "thank you."

"Okay, Mother, let little Y/N breathe." Neteyam chuckles, gently pulling you back towards him. Neytiri shakes her head at her son's overprotectiveness, but fondly places her hand atop your head for a short moment before returning to fuss over Tuk.

You turn back to Neteyam and a soft hum leaves his lips and his eyes trail over your face, before he notices some Metkayina boys gawking at you. Only then do the both of you realise that you're stood in your bra and a pair of shorts.

"W-we, uh, let's get you back to the lab, get you some more clothes." Neteyam suggests, using his towering advantage to shield your body from prying eyes as his own glare at the intruders.

"Good idea," you giggle, desperate to be a little more concealed now that you're aware of your state, "I could do with a nap."

"I'm not surprised," Neteyam's face softens and he tilts his head, "may I join you?"

[starrykatamari]

Saw Lore Contained Within SAW: The Videogame

Hello! My name is Kris and today I am going to be going over all the lore bits you can find through collecting case files in the third-person action game that was made for the Saw franchise. I will only be covering the actual plot of this game very briefly, since it is basically just a gap filling narrative that ties into the movies.

I will be making a second post for Saw II: Flesh & Blood, the second third-person action game made for the franchise.

Walk with me! I wanna play a game...

TW: Sui mentions, descriptions of canon-typical violence, drug use mentions, basically it's about Saw so be careful I love you.

The first game is set directly after the first movie-- detective Tapp has been kidnapped and treated for his bullet wound, and now he has to play one of the Jigsaw Killer's games in order to let go of his obsession. Along the way he runs into some familiar faces and ultimately either ends up admitted to a mental hospital (I know. It sucks. I know I hate it too.) or taking his own life in his apartment.

There are some fun nods to some of the more popular traps in the Saw franchise– those will be included and labeled as well throughout the post. Disclaimer: I will not be covering any material that is not directly relevant to the movie franchise this game is based on. If it’s in the game and you don’t see it here, it’s skippable, I promise.

WARNING: Both this and my next post about Saw II: Flesh & Blood will be LONG. Settle in for the ride and enjoy the lore!!

Quick note before I really get into it here, and really just a fact that I personally really love: the main menu screen of this game is a 3D render of the bathroom from Saw (2004). If you navigate to the audio options menu, adjusting the volume of any of the settings causes the sound of chains rattling and someone (likely supposed to be Adam due to the dialogue used) shouting things like ‘let me out!’ or ‘I didn’t do anything!���. It’s both a hilarious and ineffective way of presenting this.

Trap Reference: The Reverse Bear Trap

Tapp wakes in a bathroom (note that this is simply a bathroom, and not the bathroom) with a reverse bear trap on his head. That’s the reference– they blow that load literally right away.

Trap Reference: The Venus Flytrap

Here we briefly see someone killed by the same trap that was featured at the beginning of Saw II.

Going to take this moment to briefly touch on the fact that Amanda is in this videogame as a non-playable character. She is being tested (again, I know) and Tapp has to save her from her test. Suffice to say that her use here is boring, extremely out of character, and just a very thin grab at a character anyone would recognize. So I won’t be getting into any of her escapades here.

Trap Reference: Razorwire Maze

Just a quick walk-by scenery element, really, this guy behind a window seems to have gotten the ol’ Paul Leahy treatment.

Case File: Partial Medical File

This seems to be a partially redacted medical file on a patient whose name is not revealed. We are obviously meant to assume that this is in reference to John Kramer– it’s just the age that gives me pause. However, we’re meant to believe that man was fifty fucking two when he died in Saw III, so it’s probably just an inconsistency in the game.

“NAME: [BLACKED OUT]

PATIENT ID #: 825-361-3127

DATE: April 14th, 1998

CONSULTATION

DOCTOR’S NOTES - Upon initial assessment, [BLACKED OUT] presents as a well-spoken man with a firm grasp upon reality. Patient 34 years old. Married for 2 years. Wife 4 months pregnant.

Denies necessity of psychological treatment, but has kept appointment at the request of his wife, who insisted on visitation due to a concern over growing isolationistic tendencies. 

Patient displays high degree of verbal acuity and is very observant. Initial tests suggest a very high IQ, with an extraordinary ability to recall facts. [BLACKED OUT] expressed pride at his intelligence and knowledge. Exhibits need to point out the weaknesses in others. Insists the behavioral changes are that of his wife who “no longer understands” him.

Patient is polite and cordial, but non-compliant. Seems to take pleasure in obfuscating answers and attempting to trick questioner. Patient’s demeanor is calm and controlled. Shows disconnect with the emotions of other individuals and general lack of empathy toward humanity. Verbally expresses true affection for his wife and expectant child, but does not outwardly display so when discussing them.

After initial consultation [BLACKED OUT] does not feel a need for future visitations. Have scheduled a follow-up appointment with the option to cancel with 24 hours notice, just in case he changes his mind. 

Patient displays tendencies towards depression and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.”

Case File: Jigsaw Survivor Found

A newspaper clipping discussing Amanda.

“Until now, the Jigsaw Killer has never left anyone alive. Amanda Young is now the first and only known survivor of the Jigsaw Killer. Details about Young are forthcoming, and she has yet to make a statement regarding her capture.”

Case File: Jigsaw Survivor Speaks

Another newspaper clipping involving Amanda.

“‘He saved my life.’ These were the words spoken by Amanda Young, only known survivor of the Jigsaw Killer, at a press conference on the steps of City Hall yesterday morning. A police spokesperson stopped Young from revealing too much from the case, but let Young talk about what she felt during that desperate time.”

Trap Reference: Shotgun Collar

Pretty straightforward! This guy begs us to get the thing off of him and then it works as intended.

Actually, we see it again just after, but this time Jigsaw has knocked Tapp unconscious and put a shotgun collar onto him as well.

Film Reference: Adam’s(?) Camera

Pictured below, Tapp will eventually encounter a camera. Written above it is the phrase ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’. Picking up said camera will give the player the ability to take a photo, activating the flash and illuminating the room for a precious few half-seconds. It’s a terrible mechanic in-game, and an obvious reference to Adam’s navigating his apartment using the same method in Saw (2004).

Trap Reference: Pendulum

Guys this one really boggles me / makes me quite mad, actually. This trap is an obvious reference to the pendulum from the beginning of Saw V. The blade is oriented at the opposite angle, though, meant to cut Jennings (a character who literally does not matter, trust me) long-ways rather than across, like Baxter. It’s a bastardization, but then I might just be biased as the resident Hoffman liker.

Case File: Negligence Leads to Officer’s Death

A newspaper clipping that is speaking about detective Sing’s death in Saw (2004), pinning the blame on Tapp for his rash actions.

“By Oswald McGillicutty

If it wasn’t bad enough that there is a killer out there mashing up taxpayers into itty bits, now we have the cops to worry about, too. To his own admission, Detective David Tapp completely disregarded process and went rogue, convincing his partner, Detective Steven Sing, to join him in an unwarranted entry to catch the Jigsaw Killer. 

Not only did they break into Jigsaw’s secret hideout without a warrant, but they didn’t wait for any backup either, probably hoping to get all the glory for themselves. Well, Jigsaw got the drop on them, slicing Tapp’s throat from ear to ear and nailing Sing in the top of the head with a double barrel shotgun. 

All of this was confirmed by witness Jeff Thomas, who was in one of Jigsaw’s little traps. He claimed Sing saved his neck, but when Tapp got sliced and Sing got blasted, good ol’ Jeff was stuck in the trap until help arrived.”

Case File: Decorated Detective Discharged

A newspaper clipping discussing Tapp’s discharge from the MPD– this one actually mentions Hoffman being the replacement for head officer on the case.

“By Oswald McGillicutty

Globe Staff Writer

Detective David Tapp, the lead officer in the Jigsaw Killer case, resigned yesterday due to unknown circumstances. The shooting death earlier this week of his partner, Detective Sing, is suspected to be a factor in the detective’s resignation, but Tapp could not be reached for comment.

‘Tapp was a fine officer and defender of the law, and we will miss him,’ was the only comment given by the police spokesperson.

Detective Mark Hoffman, a similarly decorated officer, will be taking over lead position on the case.”

Case File: Partial Medical File (2)

Another medical file seemingly written by a therapist in reference to, again, who we are probably meant to assume is John Kramer.

“PATIENT ID #: 825-361-3127

DOCTOR’S NOTES

[BLACKED OUT] continues to show up to appointments despite questioning need for psychiatric treatment. States that he ‘knows more about medicine and the mind’ than any of the staff. Mocks staff credentials and is often uncommunicative during therapy. Claims traditional psychiatric medicine fails patients by not offering them ‘real choices’.

Patient displays familiarity with psychological / psychiatric language. Patient states that he is well aware of his own childhood history and its potential psychological ramifications. Describes authoritarian, punitive father and absent, passive mother. Insists that his superior intelligence and self-control make childhood history of physical, mental and verbal abuse unimportant.

Patient denies history of his own violent and impulsive behavior, citing memory lapses. Our conversations reveal the [BLACKED OUT] often manipulates others for his own amusement. Patient shows no remorse at negative effects his behavior has on other people. Views others as objects / pawns.

Based on [BLACKED OUT]’s behavior and history, I recommend inpatient treatment. Patient refuses to consider this option.

Raise Haldol to 5 mg / twice daily. Raise chlorpromazine to 50 mg nightly.”

For those who are curious, ‘chlorpromazine’ is Thorazine, a medication used typically to treat conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. ‘Haldol’, or ‘haloperidol’ is also typically used to treat schizophrenia.

Film Reference: ‘X Marks the Spot’

Very straightforward, just writing on the wall instructing Tapp to find the ‘X’ that marks ‘the spot’. Clear reference to one of the tapes’ clues from Saw (2004).

And there you have it! That is all of the relevant lore and a few of the references to the films in Saw: The Videogame. My recommendation is this: if you are a Saw fan, please do yourself a favor and find a nice, no-commentary longplay of this game to watch. It’s hilariously bad, but if you’re a diehard Sawliker you might find some real good laughs there for you.

Thanks for reading, and look out for my post on Saw II: Flesh & Blood– I’ll probably start working on it right after this one is posted! The second game has MUCH more relevant lore about a lot of characters (some of which we don’t get much info on to begin with), so please stay tuned! I’ll link it in an edit of this post once it’s done.

Oh, and if you have any questions or anything funny to share in reference to this game, PLEASE don't hesitate to send me an ask! I'm basically a font of knowledge about these two spinoff games. :)

Have a good one! Remember to cherish your life! <3

EDIT: The post is done for Saw II: Flesh & Blood! Read it here!

[our-future-is-up-to-us-2]

Go To Sleep, And Dream Of Pain

Posting late now, but what the hell, it's still something <3

Take some angsty vibes for fic number 4 @narcosfandomdiscord

Prompt #21, Book Of Nerves Of Steel: Cortisol

Word Count: 1K

Relationships: Seymour Krelborn & Audrey II, Audrey Fulquard/Orin Scrivello (background)

Warnings: Quite a few! All of these are compliant to canon: Blood loss, murder, mention of s/h, reference to abusive relationship

~ Read the fic under the cut ~

Seymour has, and always will be, a shy person. 

Shy, clumsy, forgettable, those adjectives always spring to mind. Oh, and unhygienic, if Mr. Mushnik’s words have any input whatsoever. (Of course, they do, after all, there’s nothing that the florist can refuse from the shop owner). 

Another word to add to the pile, something that only increases with each passing day: Anxiousness. 

Seymour frets and frets, rubbing over his hands. He works frequently with his plants, talking to them as though it will make them grow. He collects the inventory and keeps to himself, because no one really makes an effort to talk in return. 

Things are better that way. 

Well, until a beautiful yet shocking revelation can emerge, that is. 

And how better to do it than in the form of some… Venus flytrap, unidentifiable plant thing , Audrey II? 

Mushnik marvels at the plant’s unique traits, ready to show it off to the passers-by of Skid Row. Audrey squeaks, simply because she’s been given acknowledgement from Seymour, that the plant (and by extension, she) holds value.  

The florist stresses some more when the plant doesn’t grow, and makes his best efforts to revive it that very night. 

When he wakes up in the morning, everything is swell. 

If being on the anaemic side of things is a side effect, so be it. Business is booming and Audrey II’s been blooming away. 

Finally, Seymour Krelborn breathes in the fact that every bad feeling oh-so casually slips away. He can take control of his life, now, from an orphanage, to a fortune. 

Mushnik doesn’t despise him anymore, and Audrey looks at him nicely… He doesn’t need anything else. Yes, the environment could be nicer, but that is the point. Start off slow, in this dirty, dingy, depressed neighbourhood of Skid Row, and find a way outta here.  

He smiles at the plant, bigger and better than ever before, and hums as he walks towards the door, having closed up for the night. 

This thing is his ticket to heaven. He’s sure of it. 

***

The day to follow is even more strenuous than the last. 

The blood loss drives him insane, not literally, but he’s dizzy. Sometimes, it’s difficult to think rapidly, even to put one foot in front of the other. 

He’d rather sleep, give his aching fingers a few days to heal, and then continue with Audrey II. But that’s some distant dream, nothing like Audrey’s… 

She thinks of the future, of optimism and whimsy. The American dream, the white-picket fence and a dashing husband to boot. She’ll be the perfect housewife, living in serenity, dressed to the nines and with enough money to last a lifetime. 

Seymour doesn’t exactly doubt Audrey, but he’s seen many a harsh day, and would rather try his best to see things moment by moment, progressing at pace. One foot in front of the other. 

Until it’s near closing time, and that eccentric dentist guy, Orin, has picked Audrey up, swept her off her feet and onto a motorbike… Not without mentioning he does so in the least of romantic fashions, whilst ignoring her and screwing around with nitrous oxide. 

Unfortunately, there’s not much he can do. He’s discussed it time and time again with Mr Mushnik: Audrey is not a healthy girl, and neither is Audrey II. 

At least, it wasn’t before.  

Now its leaves make it an enigma, and the bud is a luscious green, making the plant seem like it's from a jungle. 

“Aw, Twoey,” Seymour mumbles, leaning against it, “It’s crazy, how the world works. She should be with a prince, not a sadistic creep like him!” He feels the anger rise in his voice, opting to run his bandaged fingers over Audrey II. He’ll calm himself down, and the cortisol in his body will surely take effect soon. “Look, at least we got each other, right? I’ll see you in the morning.” 

He lets out a delayed breath as he reaches for the doorknob, twisting it. He barely feels the air on his face when he startles, hearing the plant slump from behind him. 

The florist has no option but to close the door. 

Even less of a choice, he’ll have to talk to the withering thing, just to make him seem sane. Perhaps it’s on instinct, too, and he just can’t help his nature. 

“I– Twoey! I haven’t got much left, seriously– We can start on the left hand when I’m better, and–” 

He kneels down, pressing his glasses closer to his face. 

Feed me!  

It’s bizarre. 

It’s just him in this dingy room, trying to grapple with a plant that needs a lot of nutrition. Clearly, Seymour’s blood sacrifices aren’t cutting it anymore– But, then, maybe it’s the blood loss! Just a dream, a hallucination! How’s he going to snap out of it?! 

The voice, rich and baritone, rings again. 

Feed me, Krelborn, feed me, now!  

Who else knows him like this? So personally? Who’s been with him through everything? 

Oh. Seymour thinks, his eyes glaring at Audrey II’s bulb. Is that the only option, is it really?  

“I can’t feed you!” He finally says, shuffling away. “I’ve told you too many times!” 

“But I’m starving! ” The lips move. The trap, the thing, he doesn’t have a clue – on the plant , no less – says something. “C’mon, Krelborn, feed me now!” 

“I’m a human, Twoey!” The florist exclaims, backing away, “I’ve only got a limited blood supply.” He watches as its vines flop up and down, “What? You want me to slit my wrists?!” 

“Mmm,” Audrey II responds, and Seymour’s hands start to tremble. 

No! He thinks, This is too much, isn’t it?! That’s disgusting, isn’t it?! How inhumane! So… So vile.  

And yet, Audrey II’s newfound rhetoric works its way into Seymour’s mind and heart: Hey, what if you killed someone? Someone oughta deserve it! Feed me, get me some lunch! You’ll be rich if I keep growing, imagine it, kid!  

Both he and the plant take their eyes to the window, seeing heartless Orin and innocent Audrey… The scene before them both sends a shiver down the florist’s spine. 

“Alright,” He whispers, “You need blood, and Orin’s got more than enough.” 

***

Seymour chops Orin up, but doesn’t kill him. 

The images of blood and body parts keep him awake for hours, and he knows that the cortisol in him isn’t doing its job. 

He should be asleep by now, he should be thinking of tomorrow’s troubles… 

Instead, Seymour stays awake, and thinks about the hole he’s dug himself: Deep, irreversible, and bloody. 

[autism-connoisseur]

saw x spoilers below the cut

the way i spent half the movie saying stuff like "wow this is just like in saw iii" to my friends... john and amanda ARE the most fucked up family ever and then you have hoffman in the post credit scene looking so fucking dumb <3. the second john made that call and said "inspector" i KNEW it was going to be him... loved the detail of him smiling as the trap began too that's my insane wife <33

amanda once again being the best character ever. i loved her empathizing with gabriela (and fun fact! when gabriela is at the toilet with the walls full of graffiti one of them said "te amo mandi" which means "i love you mandi" (pronounced mandy. mandy hehe,,) so. im saying it now those two were LESBIANS). i adored her scenes with john. when he was telling she was ready and that he trusted her i remembered the letter he wrote for her in saw iii and i started weeping. JOHN CRYING AS HE HUGS HER. and the hardest part of this is leaving you etc.

however. john. he IS an hypocrite, cecilia IS right. he picks and chooses who dies, he makes them go through insane hell just because he decides they need his "help". that's what makes him such a good character!! it's that he sucks!! he is not a good person and his moral code is twisted, of course he wouldn't want a child to die but he has no issue with letting people die because they didn't finish the test on time even if they did do what he asked (mateo and valentina are examples in this very movie; adam also comes to mind as his fate paralleled cecilia's in a way, both left to die in a room after killing someone and proving their will to live. one of them 'deserved' it more though, but just the way they are left in the room to starve. no one is coming to mercy kill cecilia though). this movie felt like it wanted us to root for him? john's whole appeal is how morally grey he is: he has his rules (itzzz the rulezzz) and he abides by them, so when diego passed his test he helped him; but what he does to his victims is not fair. and even if these ones WERE scammers... he does play god with their lives. forces their hands so he won't feel like his deaths are on him even though they would live if he didn't intervene. he genuinely thinks he's helping! he is aware that he puts his victims though the worst torture possible and he designs his games so they have no choice to do exactly what he wants and suffer. of course he doesn't lose himself in the violence the way hoffman or amanda did but he does become someone else. no one knew john kramer, cancer patient, but they did know jigsaw, serial killer, and that's the POINT!!

severely disappointed but not surprised by the lack of lawrence. i knew and i wanted this to be a movie mostly about john and amanda but c'mon. as he was on the hospital couldn't they at least make a mention like "your original diagnosis by dr gordon" or something... or asking him about idk the brain surgery!! (btw. sick trap but you can't just pick at your brain at random and walk it off. i mean he didn't walk it off. but he not only just grabbed a piece of his brain but he touched a lot more areas. that's not how it goes im afraid)

trap wise i liked them all, brain surgery was probably my favorite just from the aesthetic of it... it reminded me of the venus flytrap too and that's one of my favorite traps as well <3. the eye sucker was such a good concept, could've been gorier but it would have been better if it was. you know. REAL. i don't know what we're calling the traps honestly i might rate them later idk

and uuuh i thought it would be gorier? i get that they want to not be as much torture porn but idk. it also makes sense through because it's john's traps, and he didn't rig them, for starters. and the effects when there WAS blood were really good

overall great movie i loved it i rambled to my friends about all the traps and references and similarities to other movies the whole 30 mins walk home :D

ABOUT TO WATCH SAW X ILL BE BACK MORE AUTISTIC THAN EVER IN IDK 2 HOURS

[hostess-of-horror]

Ok, since you're doing character opinion bingo, how's about our friendly neighborhood non-gender specific human flesh consuming plant, Audrey II?

*deep inhale*

@snailstrailz, you have NO idea how happy I am now that I have an opportunity to blab about my favorite musical character!

More Down Below 👇

First off... Audrey II has a very special place in my heart. I am deeply in love with the Broadway musical and both movies (the original 60's film and the 80's iconic film).

Second, fun fact about me: I was the puppeteer for Audrey II in my high school's production of Little Shop of Horrors when I was a Senior! Absolutely loved being the role of a carnivorous monster! I still have one of the props given to me by the head counselor/director after the last performance.

And third... Allow me to obsessively ramble/rant about my precious blood-thirsty blorbo...

So many LSOH/musical fans on Tumblr are going to hate me for this, but I don't give a shit:

The original Broadway ending (everyone dies and Audrey II wins) is a much better ending than the theatrical one (Seymour destroys Audrey II, he and Audrey live happily ever after).

There's this sort of "moral superiority" amongst fans when it comes to the ending, where those who like the happy ending are "correct" and therefore "good people." Those who don't, like me, are nothing but terrible assholes. (Note: this does not apply to all LSOH fans, but it is a pretty popular opinion on Tumblr)

For me, seeing Audrey II successfully take over America and devour everyone in their path is satisfying, especially since I at one point was Audrey II. In a lot of ways, it reminds me of one of my favorite video games, Destroy All Humans. The entire premise of that game is to destroy all humans as an alien from outer space to achieve a higher goal. Sound familiar? I understand that people like happy endings, but sometimes happy endings don't give the overall story a great impact on the audience.

Yeah, yeah, I know there's a difference between the Broadway musical and the movie (the characters who died on stage are still living, while in the movie they don't come back), but my point still stands. Little Shop of Horrors is a horror-comedy, but it's also a tragedy about how desperation can lead to consumption, literally and figuratively, and how such acts of desperation can lead to even bigger problems - bigger than hula hoops!

Sometimes watching how humanity can be brought down to its knees and be completely destroyed brings a better message than just having the hero save the day in the end. Do all the characters deserve such an ending? No, of course not. But as much as we want to see Seymour and Audrey get the life they yearns for, I feel like Seymour's actions aren't exactly "fixable" or "forgivable." What I mean is: Seymour kinda brought all of this onto himself, and ultimately and eventually, Audrey. Even if he did have good intentions ("Hell is paved with good intentions" is a good quote to describe this). Remember, we are talking about an alien Venus flytrap that eats humans, not some run-of-the-mill romance-drama plot.

PLUS: on top of themes of desperation and hunger, it's a commentary on how a lot of Americans yearn for a better future and lifestyle but can't because of mental health/poverty/being trapped/lack of means to improve or provide themselves. Seymour agrees to feed Audrey II because he wants the girl and have a better life for both of them. This can easily be applied with situations like drug dealing, prostitution, con artistry, and other shady ways. Sure, Seymour does become famous and gets the girl, but at what cost? What he did to get to that point harmed everyone around him and eventually became his downfall. Giving Seymour the perfect happy ending kind of downplays that moral lesson.

And not to mention! The original ending where a bunch of Audrey IIs grow and attack all of America is beautifully crafted by the film developers! The artistry! The dedication! The editing! Everything about it is just so well made...

All of that... Just to be shat on and completely re-shot by critics and audience because they wanted a "happy ending."

Imagine having to go through hours, days, and months working on such a brilliant scene for a brilliant movie and then being told that everyone hates what you've worked so hard on.

That, on top of everything I've said here, is why Audrey II is my blorbo.

Thank you for coming to my TED talk.

[idvask-hunterfinn]

An Invitation for Drosera

Dear Drosera, or should I say Finneas, 

Yes, I know who you are. You were once a great man in pursuit of understanding the world around us, working side by side with Faust. Rumors say that in the humble little town…? Village…? Well you get the picture just by mentioning it. You have the ability to bend nature at will, but also the drive to kill. Yet from what I’ve heard, you’re sweeter than honey. I know you’re wondering how the hell I know this but, a magician never reveals his secrets now does he? Afterall, I know about your current situation. They are angry and will never stop until they kill you, but you know that you are stronger than them with your abilities. Before I lose you, the point is that I’m running a little game and my options for people to set as my pawn is running dry, so I need someone… Someone like you. I’ll explain the rules when you arrive but also, I will help you understand your powers, they’re unnatural yes but there’s most likely something more to it. Along with carrying your research here at Oletus Manor. You were studying how the human mind works, along with Faust right? You will be able to do that with my help. Oh and don’t worry about your pets, I already have a greenhouse ready for you. I can’t wait to see you in action. 

Patiently waiting, 

Baron DeRoss

A Response to Baron DeRoss

Dear Baron DeRoss, 

You have my interest in participating in this little game of your’s… And the tone in your voice suggests that people will die and how I kill. Yes, the village has been going after me for a few years. I haven’t left because I never had a reason to leave until I received your letter. Thank you for being considerate for my pets, a greenhouse is just what I need. As long as my pets can kill whoever my victim is we won’t have an issue. As you probably know my pets are carnivorous Venus flytraps but their favorite is the flesh of a human. Don’t worry, they are mostly well-behaved and are extremely obedient. You have my utmost respect for inviting a killer to your manor. I bet you’re just as sadistic as me. Since you mentioned Faust, I don’t know who else you are inviting but can I invite him as well? We haven’t seen each other in a few years but if I get to kill I want him to see the monster I became, it is somewhat his fault anyway. Don’t invite someone named Zora here, I can’t afford to lose that child’s trust and beside’s she belongs in her small town causing all sorts of trouble. If I see that any kids are at your manor then you are another breed of sadistic. If you haven’t noticed, that’s a threat. I may be a killer, but I have morals for heaven’s sakes. Can’t wait to participate in the game you have set!

From, 

Drosera 

A Letter to Faust

Dear Faust, 

I’m really hoping that this letter reaches you. I’m in trouble and I seriously need help! You are the only person who is smart enough that I can trust. I know we haven’t talked in a few years but come now, that doesn’t matter right now! I made a village angry with my research, clearly they don’t believe in science and have been going after me for years. But the good news is that someone came in contact with me. He’s giving me sanctuary and a place to continue my research peacefully. Maybe we can reunite and continue our work together? The location is Oletus Manor and I really hope to see you once again. 

Yours truly,

Finneas 

[slightly-nerdy-rambles]

Robstar Week Day 1: Flower Power (Prompt: Floral Arrangements)

Welcome, everyone, to this year's rendition of Robstar Week! This year was a bit of an odd one for me, because a recent move, an associated new job (actually an internship, but it's still a 40 hour workweek), and some seriously bad luck with my computer right around the time the prompts came out meant I got a bit of a late start. We're here now, though, and while I may not have had much of a chance to make any really long fics, I think these still came out well!

Writing this first oneshot reminded me of my late grandfather, who would regularly get little bouquets of flowers for my grandmother just because. It was a really simple and sweet kind of gesture, but that doesn't mean that certain socially-awkward superheroes who are still new to this whole dating thing can't be awkward about such gestures, ahaha.

Flower Power

It was official: Robin was the biggest cheeseball in the Titans Network.

Okay, so that was probably an exaggeration. Maybe. There weren't a lot of couples in the Network at the moment, he was pretty sure, but it was also an organization that included Kid Flash.

Besides, he told himself as he pushed open the door to the florist's shop, the bouquet of flowers thing had technically been Star's idea. It was an odd sort of sticking point for him that way back when they'd been stuck on that blasted planet, when he had convinced himself that the only reason she was mad at him for denying his feelings for her was because she had taken the word "girlfriend" too literally, she had corrected his error in part by mentioning "bountiful floral arrangements."

Well, if she wanted bountiful floral arrangements, who was he to say no? It was too late for Valentine's Day, and they wouldn't have an anniversary for a while considering they had just gotten together a little over a week ago, but that didn't mean he couldn't treat his new girlfriend to something nice. Right?

(No, really; was this normal? He was pretty new to this dating thing and still felt like he had no idea what he was doing.)

All these thoughts swirling through his head screeched to a halt when he realized everyone in the shop had gone silent and turned to stare at him. Most of them just looked vaguely baffled to see one of the Titans here, but one or two of them were grinning.

Great. Robin blamed Tokyo for this.

Unsure how else to handle the sudden attention, he approached the nearest display as casually as he could and started looking over the arrangements. There were several, of course, all artfully and colorfully put together in ways that he was sure he didn't have the experience to properly appreciate.

They were also pretty expensive, now that he looked at them.

"How can I help you?"

Robin considered it a small victory that he suppressed any instinct to jump at the sudden question. He turned to see a florist eyeing him calmly with an expectant but professional smile.

"Umm…" He rubbed the back of his neck and glanced back at the display case. "Yeah, I'm just looking for a little something nice to get for… someone special." He was definitely blushing at this point, he could tell.

The florist nodded. "All right. What you're looking at now are usually for special centerpieces; if you want a more personal bouquet, I think it would be best to start with the flowers you want and we can put something together from there. What does, ah, your special someone like?"

Robin had to hand it to the guy, he really was a professional. He was already starting to relax a little.

That… was an excellent question though. What flowers did Starfire like? Did she even have any favorites?

It might have helped if he knew anything about Tamaranean flowers. Unfortunately, his knowledge of plant life on that planet was pretty much limited to the fact that at least some of it bit back. Would she appreciate a Venus flytrap? Could he even get one of those here?

"Uhh… I don't know, exactly," he eventually admitted. "I know she likes the color purple."

Just then, a thought occurred to him. "Oh! Do you have cherry blossoms? Or, I dunno, anything like those?" That seemed like something that would be meaningful for both of them no matter what she thought of the flowers themselves, and while he had no idea if they'd be here or still in season, even something similar would be a nice gesture.

The florist smiled again and waved him further into the shop. "Let's see what we have."

Robin followed the man with renewed confidence. Yeah, he could do this. He could get a nice little bouquet of flowers for his girlfriend and it didn't have to be weird at all!

He didn't pay attention to the little tinkling of the doorway bell behind him until the excited murmurs started. Great. More gossipy fans.

"Oh! Um, is this a bad time?"

Robin froze at the sound of that exceptionally familiar voice. He spun around to see Starfire standing just through the doorway, clutching some sort of list written in her loopy handwriting and at the top of which he was pretty sure he spotted his own name. She was staring right back at him now, and had a furious blush on her face that he was certain he was starting to match.

…Yeah. The two of them were definitely the biggest cheeseballs in the Titans Network.

[soft-cookie-aka-aquadrop]

About Humans-B-Gone, Continued, Part 1

Alongside the plot about the preying mantis, the tarantula, the ants, and the weird mutant vertebrates er, gubs, as they call them (which I didn’t immediately realize was “bug” backwards), there’s also Professor Gregorsa, the cockroach who I mentioned under the reblogged post. He’s the narrator, and he also gives biology trivia at the end of the videos, with points awarded to viewers who already knew the trivia beforehand.

Let’s see how many I have so far...

Of course I know what vertebrates are. I don’t know much about the history of insects, though.

I remember that either @bogleech​ or someone he reblogged a post from said that cockroaches lived together with cavemen, and that they eat bed bugs, though I’m not sure if that counts as being aware of cockroaches as something other than pests.

No, sorry, I didn’t. I did learn from Animal Crossing that they’ve been around for a very long time, though.

Duh, who wouldn’t?

Nope, never heard of ‘em.

I first saw carnivorous plants on a set of stamps from the post office when I was a kid. There were four of them- Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, sundews, and one other that I forgot. So I did know about sundews, but I’d forgotten their name until now. Thanks for reminding me! Now, if only I could remember what that other carnivorous plant I forgot about was...

I learned that they’re not insects from a Magic School Bus book.

I forgot that Daddy Long Legs aren’t spiders.

I haven’t heard of any of these.

Someone posted a video here on Tumblr where they drew circles around a pseudoscorpion, who didn’t seem to realize it could just step over the drawings.

I think this was also posted here on Tumblr.

No, I haven’t.

@bogleech​ brought this up not long after I watched this episode. 

Isn’t this where the phrase “running around like a chicken with its head cut off” came from?

I knew their eyes were on the ends of their arms, but I didn’t know their arms had wills of their own. That seems inconvenient- what if they all want to go in different directions?

No, I wasn’t, but it kind of reminds me of jellyfish coming out of polyps.

I haven’t, but now I want to.

Well, I know it now because I just read it, but I didn’t know before then. I’ll be sure to remember for later, though.

[peterxwade24]

Safety Found in Red Sleeves

Chapter 9

I know it's been nearly four months (just five days shy of four months) and I apologize for that.

Anyways, I hope you enjoy.

Thana watched as all of the patrons of the Iceberg Lounge turned to look as they entered. She knew they weren’t the usual crowd, seeing as how Adrien had on a fanny pack, but since they all had red, or some shade of pink, sleeves Uncle Ozzy would let them in.

“I’m sorry. Do I-” Oswald Cobblepott was, fundamentally, a good man. He would never turn away a child in need and he remembered the children he gave shelter to, so imagine his surprise when the person standing in his place of business was none other than the girl who’d managed to burrow under his skin and earn a special nickname. “Chick? Is that- are you- you’re really here?”

Thana let out a laugh and rushed at the man, throwing her arms around his neck before letting out a louder laugh. “I’m taller than you Uncle Ozzy!”

Oswald laughed before his gaze drifted back to the rest of the teens gathered just inside his place of business. “Chick, as much as I love seeing you, who’re they?”

“Oh!” Thana pulled away from Oswald before turning to her friends. “Well, the tall boy with black hair and frosted tips is Kim, the blonde girl is Chloé, the guy with short brown hair is Nino, the other blond is Adrien, and the short sporty girl is Alix. They’re friends I made in Paris, with my mother’s cousin.”

Oswald smiled and waved. “I see my niece has given you a heads up on the dress code around here.”

Kim nodded, a smile on his face. “Mèo con’s always reminding us that we have to wear red when we’re in Gotham, says she’ll ditch us if we don’t.”

Nino snorted before his eyes drifted over to the turntables. “Do you mind if I?”

Oswald smiled and nodded. “Go ahead, you can’t be any worse than my usual guy.”

Nino drifted over to the turntables and began playing some music.

Chloé strode over to the duo, a smile on her face. “It’s so nice to finally meet Fragolina’s Uncle Ozzy.”

“You must be the one my Chick won’t stop saying reminds her of the second Robin.” There was a twinkle in his eye as he pulled Thana close.

Adrien and Alix followed Kim over to the trio, where Kim draped an arm around Chloé’s shoulders. “That’s a possibility.”

---

Thana and her friends, accompanied by Thana’s Uncles Ed and Jon, toured Gotham. Thana made sure to show her friends around, showing them shortcuts to use to get around if they ever get separated from Madame Bustier. Eventually, the group came to an overgrown looking park.

“Uncle Ed, Uncle Jon. I’m going to show them around, and if we run into her introduce them. If we don’t, could one of you text her to let her know where they’re staying so we can do the introductions there?”

“Of course Mini Todd.” Her Uncle Jon nodded and wrapped an arm around Ed, who smiled softly at the act before nodding as well.

“And we’ll keep an eye out for You-Know-Who. He seems to think that you will come crawling back any day now.” Her Uncle Ed rolled his eyes.

“Thank you both so much.” Thana pressed kisses to their cheeks and smiled. “If we ever come across him, I’ll send an SOS to the group chat and then beat his ass.”

Jon and Ed pressed kisses to her cheeks and smiled. “Be safe.”

“With Aunt Pam? Always.” Thana turned towards the park and took a breath, smelling the local flowers and feeling better than she had since she’d been removed from the streets.

---

Thana led her friends around the park, pointing out all of the Poison Ivy original plants and warning her friends to stay away from them since they hadn’t built up an immunity to the toxin within the plants, with a smile on her face. “Aunt Pam always has a new plant that she’s making, and she’s been sorta kinda courting my Aunt Harley since she first saw her, although Aunt Harley used to be with this abusive asshole. I do wonder what happened to Aunt Harley’s daughter, I know she said she was with her sister but still.”

“Who?” Adrien asked, his hand hovering dangerously over a hybrid Venus Flytrap and Trumpet Pitcher plant, as he looked back at the group.

Adrien’s hand was saved by a wall of Boston ivy that shot up out of the ground. A loud scoff could be heard just beyond the plants before a beautiful head of red hair appeared through the leaves. “Didn’t your parents ever teach you not to touch wild plants?”

Thana smiled and allowed Kim to pull her into his side. “Are all of your relatives ridiculously attractive people?”

“You’ve met my Ma’s cousin,” Thana shrugged and settled more firmly against his side, “and Jervis Tetch is a rotten man, he’s rotten to the core.” Thana’s head rested against Kim’s chest, her ear close to his heart, as she forced thoughts about her birth father out of her head. “My Uncles and Aunts have this friend, Harvey Dent, who’s a little disfigured. He was in this really bad accident a while back and his face is a little hard to look at. He’s kind of nice, never really been mean to me specifically. I think he’s kinda cool though, he’s got a whole schtick about truth and luck.”

Kim nodded, his eyes flitting over the rest of their friends. Kim had never really had a big friend group, not until Thana joined their class, and then suddenly Kim was always around other people, had a shadow who was nearly as protective of him as his Mẹ was, and suddenly his fledgling crush was one of his best friends. Kim would probably always be thankful that Thana showed up when she did. Without Thana, Kim probably would have always been just a dumb jock who fell for some perfect princess. Kim knew his Mè was as thankful as he was that Thana had shown up in their lives, that Thana had stayed after she learned about the skeletons in their closets.

Kim looked at Thana, and he could see how much lighter she was here in what was the darkest city Kim had ever stepped foot in compared to back home. He could only hope that no matter where she went after Lycee, she would keep in contact with him and his Mè.

---

Thana and her friends left Robinson Park just before dinner that evening, her Uncles Jon and Ed escorting them back to the hotel when Thana’s friends went in for the night. Thana, however, followed her friends in and ate a meal with the class before ducking out of the hotel to go spend the night on the streets.

Thana refused to spend any more time in that building than absolutely necessary. She could still feel the cold lead encased in steel as it pierced her abdomen.

Thana hunkered down in an old spot, one she knew like the back of her hand, and could only hope that she would be safe here. She could only hope that she wouldn’t catch a cold while she slept on the streets.

Thana’s friends, however, slept fitfully that night in their comfortable beds in the hotel. Their thoughts filled with worry about Thana on the streets.

-*-*-*

Jason puttered around the kitchen, his feet encased in his slippers, and let out a yawn. He looked at the counter and noticed the already full coffee pot. He glanced around the room and frowned when he didn’t see anything before the sound of the TV reached him a moment later. “Duke?”

Duke’s head popped up over the back of the couch and he gave Jason a sheepish smile. “Yeah?”

Jason let out a breath and his whole body sagged for a moment. “Just had to make sure. Little twitchy after our late night visitor last night.”

“Who stopped by last night?” Duke stood up off of the floor and walked into the kitchen, sitting down on one of the counters like Tim, Steph and Cass had started doing.

Jason set his coffee mug (which read “World’s Greatest Dad” in a similar red to his helmet) down on the counter with a little more force than necessary. “The Bat.” Jason turned to the fridge to pull out the coffee creamer, but frowned when the only creamer left was the Southern Butter Pecan Pie flavour. He simply reached past and grabbed the milk to add to his coffee instead of creamer. “He wanted to know why I’d ‘taken you as well’. Because he sees you all as things to be taken and not children to be taken care of.”

---

Jason pressed a kiss to Steph and Cass’ foreheads before hitching Damian further up on his hip. “I’ll be back later. I just need to take Damian to finish introducing him to his aunt’s aunts and uncles. Unless of course, you two wish to join us.”

Steph looked at Cass and shrugged. “Timmy’s got work. I think Bart is out running around.”

Cass nodded before mussing up her hair and frowning at her sister in question.

“Kon might be in Kansas, I think he mentioned going to visit Clark’s parents. Cassie is hanging out with Donna, getting advice most likely. Cissie is spending the day with Oliver.” Steph slung an arm around Cass’ shoulders and smiled. “Give us a few minutes to get dressed and then we’ll join you.”

Jason nodded, a small smile on his face. “Of course. Take all the time you need.”

Steph and Cass disappeared into the room they had officially claimed, coming out a few minutes later in coordinated outfits.

Steph walked out wearing a dark purple crop top with black shorts and a black sweater tied around her waist. Her hair was pulled back into a low ponytail and a pair of black sunglasses, easily recognized as Kon’s, sat atop her head.

Cass, who walked out just a step behind Steph, wore a black t-shirt under a black and yellow flannel paired with black high-waisted jeans. Her hair was freely flowing around her shoulders while her wrists sported scrunchies she’d pilfered from Cassie and Cissie.

Jason shook his head at his sisters, Cass who was just a scant six months older than he was but acted so much younger and Steph who was just a few months older than Tim, and smiled. “Any particular reason for the attire today?”

“Just felt like coordinating.” Steph smiled at Jason and slung an arm around Cass. “Well, what are we waiting for?”

---

Jason led the way into the Elizabeth Arkham Asylum for the Criminally Insane, his sisters just behind him and Damian clinging to him like he was the only thing keeping him attached to the planet.

“So, not to question your sanity or anything but, why are we here?” Stephanie’s voice was filled with trepidation and Cass’ arm was wrapped around Steph’s in an act of comfort for both girls.

“One of Thana’s uncles is here right now. He’ll be out soon. Do not compare him to the guy who killed me.” Jason smiled at the guards on duty and continued into the building.

The person at the front desk, a young individual of indeterminate gender with short brown hair and brown eyes, looked up from the clipboard in front of them and deadpanned. “Name of the patient you’re here to see?”

“Jerome Valeska. He should be expecting me, Jason Todd.” Jason smiled and shifted slightly so Damian’s face was more comfortably buried in his neck. “My son and sisters will also be joining us today.”

The receptionist nodded and jotted down the details relayed to them. “Identification?”

Jason handed over his identification card while Steph and Cass pulled out their driver’s licenses. “My son is only nine and only has a passport, will that work?”

The receptionist nodded and smiled. “A passport will work.”

Jason pulled Damian’s passport out of his pocket and handed it over. “We’ll come back to collect those when we’re finished visiting.”

“Have a good visit.”

“Thank you.” Jason smiled and led the way back into the rehabilitation center, his sisters sticking close to his back with their free hands clinging to the back of his shirt just over where Damian’s leg rested, passing the cells filled with the more humane residents of the asylum. Jason paid them no mind, having grown used to their hooting and hollering as he passed on his previous visits.

The little four person group of the family finally reached the rehabilitation center and were let in by one of the orderlies, a bulkier individual dressed in teal scrubs. They all gave the orderly a smile and a nod as they passed into the room.

Jerome was sitting at a table with blank sheets of paper mixed in with sheets of paper filled with writing, and as soon as Jason could read what was on the paper he could see that the pages were filled with apologies and plans to become a better person if for no one other than his favourite niece and her wellbeing. Jerome looked up when Jason started to cast a shadow across his paper. “Hey buddy. You’re standing in my- Jason! What a surprise!”

Jason’s face grew soft, a smile on his face and pulled out the chair next to Jerome to sit down in. Damian was settled into Jason’s lap while Steph and Cass sat down in the chairs next to Jason’s. “How are you today Jerome?”

“I’ve been better.” Jerome had been better, before his parents and his uncle died, before his twin fell apart and brought him down with him. Jerome had been happy in the circus, performing with his family for crowds of people who adored their act, and then everything changed.

“Jerome, I’d like you to meet my son. Damian al Ghul-Todd, nephew of your niece Thana Todd, as well as my sisters, Cassandra Cain and Stephanie Brown.”

“Oh come on Jace. Why’d you have to use last names?” Steph pouted and punched Jason’s upper arm.

“Because now that Uncle Jerome knows of your parentage he’ll be less likely to toss anything you say aside.” Jason smiled as Jerome spoke about himself in the third person.

“What he said.” Jason let out a chuckle. Damian frowned at the lack of attention he was receiving and simply headbutted Jason in the chin. “Yes, yes, we know you’re here Kutlat Saghira. I’m sorry that we’re not paying attention to you.”

Damian pouted and puffed out his cheeks. “Baba, not here.”

Jason smiled at his son, knowing that he was safe in his arms. “I love you my Little Nugget.”

“Baba!” Damian frowned and looked towards the table, effectively ignoring the four other people at the table.

Steph and Cass watched the moment between father and son, sharing only a look before looking back at the duo.

Jerome watched as his niece’s brother smiled at his child, glad that he got to see it but all he really wanted was to see Thana.

“She’s in the city.” Jason’s voice was quiet, barely heard over the lull of the rest of the patients in the center. “She’s in the city and she, she got so big Jerome. She has a really good group of friends. You’d be proud of her.”

Taglist:

@amigotasbien @maribat-is-lifeblood @mystery-5-5 @our-preciousss @mochegato @chocolatecatstheron @throneoffirebreathingbitchqueen @2confused-2doanything @wannajointhecrabcult @dreamykitty25 @tomanyfandomsonmymind @moonlightstar64 @justafanwarrior @mialuvscats @pheony1882 @pepelachanel @moongoddesskiana @abrx2002 @ladybug-182 @greatcatblaze @thatonecroc @vixen-uchiha @superbwhispersconnoisseur @sauseyyy @susiej1118 @bluesimani @thatonecroc

[luckychild]

Hi Star, my dog of fifteen years died today and I was hoping for some prompts to cheer me up. Obviously Kuwabara is a cat man, but what pets do the others get, and how do they handle picking them out with their SOs? Thanks :)

I am SO SORRY to hear about your precious pupper! I hope I can do these justice. I sometimes let asks percolate in my head for a bit before answering, but this I felt required a rush job given the day you’ve had.

To start, here are Yusuke and Hiei; they came to me very quickly, but I confess I’m currently stumped for Kurama (I keep imagining him trying to convince his S/O to “adopt” a sentient Venus flytrap with him). I’ll come back and reblog with an update once I figure out Kurama’s entry.

So sorry for your loss, anon, and I hope this can cheer you up even a little bit.

YUSUKE: Man’s Best Friend

Yusuke isn’t really the type for pets. He doesn’t like having to take care of something or be its sole caregiver, considering such an arrangement a chore. But after Puu hatched, he started to see the value in keeping an animal companion…. so when his S/O asks about getting a dog, Yusuke reluctantly agrees to pick one out. Puu’s enormous size forces him to stay at Genkai’s temple in the countryside, and Yusuke misses Puu a lot, though he’ll never admit it.

But while buying dogs is common in Japan, Yusuke is not the type to go for something from a breeder. Yusuke sees himself in a rescue dog: rough around the edges, living on the street, but with a lot of heart. Like him, really. He and his S/O are definitely going to visit a shelter and lots of animal rescue sites until someone catches Yusuke’s eye.

This is where we learn Yusuke is… picky.

Click “Read More” for the rest of Yusuke’s story + Hiei!

“Too fluffy. Too small. Too yappy.” The pair of you walk down the row of cages at the shelter almost without pausing, Yusuke shouting out dismissal after dismissal as he sees the current selection of dogs. “Too big. Too ugly. Ugh, and that one’s a puppy. Too much work!”

You trail after him, glancing at dogs and voicing protests over the thunderous sound of all the shelter dogs barking in tandem. He rejected a bunch of great potential pets right off the bat; isn’t he being too judgmental? You grab his arm and drag him back into the shelter once you reach the end of the rows of cages, making him take his time and look at each dog more thoroughly. Row by row, cage by cage, you inspect all of them—and just as you think you’ll never find a dog, Yusuke spots a certain cage and stops cold.

The dog inside that cage isn’t the prettiest. He’s an older yellow lab mix with a mottled muzzle and a scar over his eye. His paws are calloused and his tail doesn’t wag. He lies on his belly and stares out between the cage bars in silence, not barking like all the other dogs who’re yapping their heads off. He’s just… quiet. Quiet and still, eyes dull and unseeing. And Yusuke holds still, too, as he and the dog trade a long, silent stare.

Quietly, you slip your hand into Yusuke’s. He startles and squeezes your fingers, rubbing the back of his neck with his other hand.

“Think we can meet this guy?” he says in a low voice.

The yellow lab isn’t the most conventional of choices. There are certainly cuter dogs in the shelter, and younger ones, and a few pure-breeds, too. But this is the only dog Yusuke has given a second look, so you nod, and the pair of you go get a shelter worker to take the dog out of his cage.

The worker says something about that dog not being an ideal pet, citing his age and sullen temperament, but Yusuke shoots him a death stare, and the shelter employee falls silent with haste.

You meet the yellow lab mix in a small outdoor yard ringed by a tall fence. The dog doesn’t react to you at first, instead sniffing around the edges of the fence and ignoring you and Yusuke alike. You hang back as Yusuke plops onto the ground, watching the dog in silence for a bit. You can’t read Yusuke’s face just then. He looks serious, especially when he holds out his hand and pats the ground in front of him.

It gets the dog’s attention. The animal halts, brown eyes fixing on Yusuke without blinking.

Yusuke smiles and pats the ground again.

The dog doesn’t move.

“Hey, boy,” Yusuke says. “C’mere.”

The dog doesn’t move.

“It’s OK,” Yusuke said, cracking a big grin. “You can trust me.”

The dog’s ears prick forward. Yusuke chuckles.

“I get it. Still figuring out if I’m all right,” Yusuke says. “I’m that way, too. Enough people knock ya around, you start wondering if any of ‘em are OK.” He grins again. “But I’m not giving up on you so easy, you got that?”

The dog does not move.

Then, slowly… his tail starts to wag.

Your eyes prick with tears at the sight of that wagging tail, the tiny spark of light in the dog’s eye, and the look of understanding on Yusuke’s face. And although it takes a few more visits for that yellow lab mix to come around, Yusuke never once gives up on him—and you know in your bones that you and Yusuke have found the newest member of your family.

HIEI: Demon’s Best... Uh... "Friend” Might Not Be the Right Word...

Yusuke found man’s best friend, but Hiei isn’t interested in something so mundane. No, for Hiei, a pet needs to be useful. It needs to earn its keep. So when you start pestering him to adopt an animal with you and bring a new companion into your lives, he’s initially quite skeptical.

What do dogs do, though? And cats, they just laze about? He’s equally critical of birds and lizards, and don’t get him started on the uselessness of fish and rodents! But you are relentless in your quest to get something to cuddle (since Hiei isn’t the cuddliest by any means) and you make your feelings crystal clear. Hiei is a very come-and-go-like-the-wind sort of man, which means you’re often left alone for extended periods. Sure, you have your friends to keep you company, but a pet would make Hiei’s absences just the littlest bit easier to bear.

Still: Despite you telling Hiei that you want a furry friend, when he informs you that you’ll be taking a little trip with him to Demon World in the coming weeks, it doesn’t occur to you that this might have something to do with your request. Any pet you get will come from Human World, after all...

...or will it?

Hiei’s quite tight-lipped about why he’s taking you to his home world, but soon you find yourself in a Demon World market in the heart of Gandara, walking beside him through the crowd and staring with an open mouth at the passing demons. Soon you duck into a dimly lit shop, where a demon with a long beard escorts you into a back room.

There you find an object draped with a black cloth. The elderly demon removes this cloth with a flourish, revealing a basket full of squirming fur. You gasp and shrink back as a small growl trills from the basket, but Hiei nudges you forward with a hand and points.

“Pick one,” he commands.

You blink at him in confusion. “Huh?”

“Pick one,” he says. “One of the pups.”

Pups? The word certainly piques your interest. You pad forward and peer into the basket again, this time making out vague lumps amid the pile of fur inside. They look like small puppies with oddly domed heads, eyes barely even open, all of them covered in thick golden and white fluff that gleams in the light of the lamp nearby. But there’s something vaguely not-doglike about their anatomy, and you’re not entirely sure what you’re looking at.

“What… are they?” you eventually ask.

“Fu dogs,” says Hiei.

“Those big stone dog statues that guard temples?” you ask, poking one of the squirming pups with a fingertip. It gives a little peep and a growl; you snatch back your hand, a memory occurring to you. Turning to Hiei in alarm, you say, “Wait. Fu dogs aren’t actually dogs—they’re lions!” Your voice rises an octave. “Are these pups actually lions, Hiei?!”

But Hiei only scoffs. “No, you fool. They’re demons. But they inspired those statues you mentioned, if the legends hold true.”

Uh... OK. OK, then. This… this is weird, but it’s far from the weirdest thing Hiei’s ever told you (the fact that demons exist at all took that prize). Taking a few deep breaths, you steady yourself and stare at the fu dog/lion puppies, trying to figure out just what the heck Hiei is showing you these things for—

The penny drops in short order. Surely he doesn’t mean you’ll be taking one of these back as a pet, does he? You can’t have a lion-dog-demon for a pet! But Hiei looks impatient, and you realize that’s exactly what he wants you to do. You swallow down the nervous lump in your throat and poke again at the squeaking, squirming basket, trying to figure out what the heck to do, to say.

“How big do they get?” you eventually ask.

Hiei replies at once: “Massive.”

You look at him in horror. “I can’t keep one of these in my apartment!”

“Of course you can,” Hiei retorts. “They’re fastidiously clean, and they’re far smarter than half of the humans I’ve met. It won’t be a burden.” His eyes darken; he looks away. “But more importantly… fu dogs are unfailingly loyal to those that raise them. Anyone who raises such a creature can count on it to provide them protection until the end of their days.”

You look at the basket with new understanding. “Protection…”

“It will guard you when I cannot.”

The two of you trade a long, silent look laden with meaning. Hiei has never made excuses for his long absences from your life. He needs his solitude, his space, and you do not fault him for that. You understand him, and you respect his needs. But at times you’ve wondered how much he cares about your needs when he’s not around, and this… this is proof he’s thinking of them quite seriously.

A companion and a protector as a pet, you muse. It satisfies both your needs and his at once. How very ‘Hiei’ of Hiei to suggest such a thing…

Taking another deep breath, you once more approach the basket, tracing a finger down the head of one of the small pups. It opens its pink mouth and gnaws on your knuckle with bare gums, paws pressing gently against your skin.

“Well… I guess they are pretty cute,” you admit—and behind you, Hiei begins to smile.

Thanks so much for reading, and I hope you enjoyed these imagines/headcanons/whatever they ares!

Headcanon & Imagine Masterlist | Tip Jar

[jasonspetertodds]

one third of a siren song

warnings: swearing

"Do you even know your carbon footprint? How much you're destroying the planet with those fucking things?"

Jason stopped in his tracks, completely dumbfounded. He managed to break in an intelligent, "Uh, no?"

She was on a roll though, "With those fucking useless casings? Single-use bullets?"

He felt a vine try to snake itself up the left leg of his pants before he quickly stomped on it. He was so, so confused. He had dropped his guns down to his hips, pointing at the ground in his state of being caught off guard and he was kind of regretting that decision.

He shot the vine for good measure.

"Not to mention all the fucking lithium and rare earth metals in all your tech. Built from exploited labor and resources." She sneered, taking another lap around the space as Jason tried to track her through all the plants.

This was not how he was expecting his Tuesday night to be going, he had decided to drop by Robinson Park for some godforsaken reason. And here he was being harassed over his goddamn carbon footprint.

He shook his head, grabbing another fucking vine started creeping up his back, trying to snap himself out of it.

"I-- I got these second hand?" He almost laughed at how ridiculous this all was. How he was being guilted into absolving his environmental sins by a pointed tone of a green woman. The laughed died in his throat when Ivy turned on her heel and glared at him, stalking forward and threateningly asking, "Got what second hand?" Jason gulped, suddenly realizing the danger in drawing the attention of a murderous botanist, "Half of my uniform is from Wing." Which was true, ironically, his taser titty top was from Dick. His motorcycle jacket and almost all of his civvies were from a thrift store. Dick wasn't broad enough for him to steal one from him, Jason would've just ripped through the poor thing the second he breathed. Even his boots were second hand.

“The Batmobile also switched to electric a while ago—“

Ivy narrowed her eyes, a sneer playing on her lips as she spat, “Since when do you drive the Batmobile? What about that fucking bike of yours?”

“Managed to switch it to hydrogen a while ago.”

That sparked Ivy’s attention. Her face softened the tiniest bit, the rage slightly dissipating behind her eyes. He shrugged, once again goaded into trying to save his own ass from Ivy’s wrath, “I mean, I could probably engineer biodegradable bullets, but I don’t really have that kind of time, y’know?”

Poison Ivy rolled her eyes, but the fondness was still there. Jason could feel his skin crawling at her gentle smile and he forced himself not to fidget under her gaze. He didn't know what to do with himself when someone wasn't actively trying to murder him. Ivy took a step forward, titling her head up in something very close to pride, "You always have been Selina's favorite. I can see why."

Jason stood shock still for a moment, if his domino wasn't covering his eyebrows he was sure that they would have been up to his forehead. What the fuck? This entire night was going completely off the fucking rails. Jason was Selina's favorite? Honor amongst thieves? Jason almost snorted, Selina didn't honor that. She would steal from a thief in a heartbeat. She had. And he was her favorite out of all of them? He always thought Stephanie was her favorite. Maybe it was just out of the B’s kids. Ivy completely ignored Jason's apparent five stages of grief, turning around and waving her hand dismissively as she stalked off, "I like that new little bird in your brood. Smart. Vegetarian."

Jason rolled his eyes, irritation spiking. Even in life he was being compared to another goddamn Robin.

He cleared his throat, snapping himself out of it and ignoring the barb while sidestepping a giant Venus flytrap that nearly munched on his jacket, smirking, "I do meatless Mondays."

[emerald-echeveria-plant]

(Me: when will you stop?

Also Me: till the earth explodes :3)

Name:

Veronica Flare

Name pronunciation:

Ver-on-i-ca Fla-re

Nickname:

The executioner

Personality:

Flamboyant, vengeful, extravagant, sadistic, loyal, looney, charming, jokester

Age:

523 years old

Species:

Venus flytrap

Sexuality:

Pansexual

Gender:

Transwoman

Pronouns:

She/her

Ethnicity:

???

Looks:

Backstory:

(WARNING: mentions of torture, suicide, & transphobia)

During the era of which Hatred was ruling over Amoretia, she had many enemies who would happily want her buried alive. So in response, Hatred decided to strike fear into them. She thought they'd be much easier to control and leave her alone if they were afraid of her. Yet, how could she accomplish it? Torture. But an amount of torture that would keep them alive and make others fear her. If her enemies saw the state of her victims, they would see what she was capable of. At first, Hatred would handle most of the torturing but couldn't for long. Her armies and supporters needed her leadership. So, Hatred hired multiple tortures to do the job for her. The job was simple, torture the enemy but too much to a point where they die. One problem though. Some of the things Hatred would instruct them to do, was a bit too much for them... Such as It affected their mental and emotional health. Hatred didn't care though, she still wanted them to do it. If they didn't, they would be met with her wrath. And one of the things no one should ever do.. is anger the queen.

The tortures slowly fell in numbers. Some of them going insane from what they committed. While others committed suicide. A few of them tried to start a revolt against the queen with the prisoners they were supposed to be torturing. In response, Hatred had them tied to a ship and slowly had it sink. Hatred hired more torturers but it would always seem to be a repeat of what happened last time. Going insane, suicide, and revolting against her. Seeing as no matter what she did, the issue wouldn't go away. After pondering with herself for a while, she came up with a perfect idea.

She'll create her own torturer.

Hatred went through many spells books in order to find a way to create such a being. Not being satisfied with any of the options she had, she went onto experiment. While she wasn't away fighting alongside her armies or making plans with her cabinet, she'd frequently experiment on how to create life. Her first few experimentations didn't go as planned. Most of them coming up as failures in her eyes. Hatred would get severely frustrated with not getting the results she wanted. Often destroying her own room in the process. Hatred tried for months to create the perfect specimen. They had to be equally terrifying, threatening, and cruel. As well as some certain traits that would make them not become insane or betray her. She made a specially designed potion containing such traits. Making the being morally corrupt, sadistic, and loyal to her and only her.

A year later, she finally got the result she wanted... Well, sort of. By using a venus flytrap along with a potion and black magic, she created a being from it. A being she would call Victor Flare. Of course Victor wasn't exactly what she wanted. To her he was way too skinny, not as tall, and not terrifying looking at all. Yet, he had some form of intelligence and had all four of his limbs along with working organs. By this point she was growing tired of experimenting and decided to go with him. He was born twenty three years old yet had the mind of a newborn. Right after he was created, Victor was immediately put to learning about Hatred's ideology. It confused him a lot at first. Mainly because he had no clue how to read or write. After realizing that the creature she created couldn't just learn about her ideology, she allowed him to be taught subjects like math, science, and language arts. Victor eventually learned how to read and write as well as speak. After becoming intelligent, Hatred thought that he was finally ready. She began to teach him how to torture her enemies. Most of the time the torture lessons would be hands-on. Victor found himself enjoying giving pain to people. Most likely due to Hatred making him have the certain traits that she desired. She was pleased with the outcome of seeing him torture and made him her royal torturer. Finally getting what she wanted, Hatred could finally focus on spreading her ideology as well as defeating some of her enemies. She'd usually bring back some soldiers on the enemies side or even her main enemy for Victor to torture. He'd always do as she requested in order to make her happy. Hatred never physically showed her happiness but did seem to be pleased with what he did. Although he could do better. Hatred eventually casted a spell that gave him powers that would allow him to do more awful things. The powers were tied to his species which allowed him to control and manipulate plant life. Victor became fascinated with his powers. His first thought was how there were so many ways to make a person suffer. He would then use his powers, primarily manipulating vines in order to tear them apart, limb by limb, slowly and painfully.

As much as he enjoyed making Hatred's enemies suffer, he started having other thoughts. He began to question his own actions. Why was he torturing these people? Sure he liked it but why them? He knew they were the enemy but why were they the enemy? When asking Hatred these questions, she only reiterated that they didn't follow the right way of how to truly live. How love was an infectious disease and how it would be the Galaxy's downfall. How she was born in order to stop such a thing from happening. Even though Victor was maybe five months old at this point, knew that her ideology was incredibly flawed. Yet, he never commented anything about it. Knowing that if he did, she'd torture him as well. Victor knew that these people he was hurting were innocent... Strangely, it made it much more fun for him. Most likely due to him being specifically made morally corrupt. After answering that question, there was another question brewing in his mind.. Who was he? Well he knew who he was. He was the loyal servant to Hatred who was given the task to harm her enemies. But.. who was he really? Behind those layers of plant flesh and blood? What was the core center? This lead to him questioning his own identity.

He questioned if he was only a torturer and if that was the only thing in his life. Victor wanting more meaning in his life took up hobbies. Mainly reading books. His favorite books being that of fairytales. Victor would also often be taking care of his appearance. Nobody wants blood stained faces after torturing all day. He first wondered if he wasn't a torturer, what else could he be? Maybe a makeup artist or a hair dresser. Those jobs sounded thrilling but not as much fun as tearing someone's skin off. As much as Victor took care of his appearance, he could never shake the feeling something was off about him. He felt uncomfortable in his skin. Often covering his skin with layers of clothing. He never knew why though. He didn't know but felt like he needed to. Victor would only get his answer when he was reading another one of his books. It showed illustrations of beautiful women wearing gowns and enjoying a picnic. Victor felt what would be known as "gender dysphoria". He felt uneasy with his own gender. As if he was born in the wrong body. Well, he kinda was as Hatred would put it. Although it was more about gender for him but it was everything else from Hatred. She didn't even want him to have a gender in the first place. Victor would slowly begin to put on makeup. First it was a bit of eyeliner then lipstick and full on layer of makeup. He felt comfortable with himself as he put on the makeup. Victor felt beautiful. When Hatred was away, he'd sneak into her room and wear one of her dresses. He didn't like the colors but enjoyed wearing it regardless. Eventually, Hatred would catch him doing this. In response she yelled at him before kicking him out of her private quarters. She wasn't mad about him wearing a dress but actually about that it was HER dress. Hatred didn't like it when people touched her things. Despite that, Victor began to take on more feminine traits. He started to talk in a much more high pitched voice. He wore high heels while torturing people. They were confused but didn't question it if they wanted a harsher punishment. One day, Victor full on dressed in a beautiful long gown, heels, and makeup. He adored it very much and praised himself for looking so good. Yet, he still didn't feel comfortable with himself. Despite looking gorgeous, he didn't like his gender. He didn't feel like he was born in the right body. He was destained to be someone else. Victor came to the conclusion that he wasn't born to be a man... He was supposed to be a woman. But how exactly could he turn into one..?

Magic. That was the answer. If Hatred could create him with just a potion and a few funny magic words, then surely there was a way for him to become a woman. After looking through several spell books, he finally found the spell he was looking for. The creation of a potion that would allow one to permanently become a woman. It was hard work but Victor managed to collect all the ingredients he needed to make the potion. He then finally drank the potion. It was a success and a bit later, Victor would change his name to Veronica. Along with his pronouns to she/her. When Hatred came to learn of this, she didn't really care. All she wanted was her enemies to suffer. Veronica happily compiled as soon as Hatred called her by her correct pronouns.

Veronica finally felt comfortable with herself. Enjoying to be in her own skin and loving herself throughout. Although she was met with a problem, many people loathed her for torturing people. When her enemies found out that she was trans, they decided to harass her on that. Often yelling slurs at her and sending hurtful letters about how horrible of a MAN she was. Veronica was angered by this. Offended that they still thought of her as a man and not as a woman. She could take being called a horrible person for committing atrocious acts or even being called a literal hellspawn. Veronica found their insults to be humourous sometimes. She'd even provoke them to insult her more. But misgendering her was taking it too far... She wasn't a man anymore and was happy being her true self. Then it all came crashing down when many people began to refer to her as "Victor" her deadname. Finally reaching her breaking point, Veronica unleashed hell on Amoretia... All of her enemies would feel her wrath for treating her horribly. Many of them were mainly torn limb from limb while others had much more horrible punishments. One person was slowly impaled by a bamboo shoot. Another covered in flowers that attracted bees and slowly died from being stung to death. Yet the one person that met the worst fate was young woman by the name of Patty Marrion. Patty would often be the one harassing Veronica daily. Calling her all sorts of horrible things, saying her decisions were choices instead of actually feelings, and literally made pamphlets demonizing trans folk. After weeks of being tormented, Patty was now at the mercy of Veronica who wasn't very keen on letting her go. Veronica seem to play it simple though... All she asked Patty to do was drink a glass of wine she specially made for her. Patty knew this was one of her sick and twisted games of Veronica. She expected to be poisoned but nothing to seem to happen at first. Yet before Patty could respond, most likey taunting her about how her planned failed, she began to feel something change inside her... What Patty hadn't realized was that Veronica put inside a special seed. A special seed that slowly turned Patty into a tree... It was quite a horrifying sight as Patty realized what was happening to her. She begged for mercy. Apologizing repeatedly for her actions. Yet, it was too late... Veronica watched in glee as Patty slowly circumed to her fate. Right after the transformation was complete, Veronica took an axe, chopped down the tree, and made a lovely chair for Hatred to sit on. Veronica's tyranny wouldn't end after those events. Right after she went in a rampage and gifting Hatred the chair, Hatred promoted her by making her executioner. As well as have some form of control over Amoretia while she was away fighting wars. It was a very good deal for Veronica as now she could implement about how much she adored being herself and torture anyone she wanted!

Unfortunately after two years of this, Hatred would then be "executed" by her enemies. Veronica became extremely depressed that their "wonderful" and "fantastic" leader was put to death. Not wanting her legacy of destroying all love to die out, Veronica tried to lead Amoretia and the armies herself. Veronica never truly believed in destroying love but would do it out of respect for Hatred. Yet, the other monarchies weren't going to let that happen. They declared that Veronica had to be put to death for her crimes. She would end up going on the run for a while. Then, it seemed like she straight up disappeared. There wasn't any trace of her left. No leads, no eyewitnesses, and no sightings. Amoretia would soon be ran by a government in order to establish some sort of order. Sadly, the kingdom would never return back to it's prime time... Although some people on Amoretia do still believe Veronica is still out there... Plotting.. Seeking revenge.. and going to return one day.

Likes:

Makeup, fashion, taunting others, desserts, making jokes/puns, torturing people, violence, & practicing magic

Dislikes:

Being misgendered, her deadname, people disrespecting Hatred, insects, stepping on her shoes, transphobes, dull things, and sour foods

Powers/abilities:

Nature manipulation - connected directly to the natural world and thus can communicate, influence, manipulate and control nature

Potion making - substances with magical properties such as enhancing physical and mental abilities, healing, granting powers, changing shape, or bewitching someone depending on the kind of potion that is made.

Immortality - endless lifespan

Weaknesses:

Fire - the most feared thing a plant could ever face.

Vulnerable - can have a long lifespan but can still die

Water - isn't a very strong swimmer

Physical strength - Veronica isn't the strongest and even Baozhai could beat her in a fight

Occupation:

Torturer & Executioner

Other:

Veronica's flytrap flaps often closes whenever she goes to sleep or whenever she doesn't want to talk to anyone.

[mst3kproject]

Voodoo Island

Leonard Maltin thought this movie was boring, which is, honestly, kind of terrifying.  Its ostensible star is Boris Karloff, who somehow managed to avoid ever being on MST3K, but it was produced by Howard Koch, the director of Untamed Youth, and was written by Richard Laundau, who did the same for Lost Continent (uhoh).  It’s also got Jean Engstrom from The Space Children, and if the voice of the radio operator sounds familiar that’s because it’s 🎶 Adam Weeeeeest.

A hotel company wants to build a resort on a tropical island, but the scouting party they sent never came back – except for one guy, Mitchell, who has been reduced to a catatonic state by whatever it was he saw there.  Worried, the hotelier sends renowned skeptic Mr. Knight to find out if it’s true that the island is under some kind of voodoo curse.  After much wasting of the audience’s time, Knight’s party reaches the island and finds it infested with man-eating plants, coconut crabs, and unfriendly natives.  I wish I could tell you more of the plot, but that’s basically all there is.

Voodoo Island is unusual as bad movies go, in that you don’t actually realize how bad it is until it’s over.  Things that seem to be the plot move merrily along, always feeling like it’s building up to something cool… and then at the last moment it just deflates like a gas station tube man with his fan turned off.  In hindsight, the audience realizes that very little of what they just saw had anything to do with what was supposedly going on. In many ways, you never do find out what was going on at all!

The middle section of this movie is not quite as obviously padded as Lost Continent with its endless rock climbing, but almost all of it is, retrospectively, pointless.  On the first leg of their journey to the island, the party’s plane is caught in a storm and forced to make an emergency landing – only to find that the weather has mysteriously cleared right up!  After repairing their radio they set off again, and nothing much comes of the incident.  They stop on another island where they have trouble hiring a boat, and where somebody puts a curse of some sort on them.  Nothing comes of this.  Later still, their boat stalls out and refuses to start again, even after they’ve cleared a blocked fuel line.  This has no real consequences, because the tide carries them in anyway, and the movie never deals with what happens when they try to leave the island again.

Along for the ride is Mitchell, the guy who was so terrified by what he saw on the island that he hasn’t moved or spoken since. He has a couple of medical emergencies that resolve themselves without long-term consequences, and then simply drops dead before they ever reach the island.  They don’t learn anything from him or his condition.  A similar fate later befalls another character, Finch, but this time the movie ends before he has a chance to either die or snap out of it. Mitchell is only in this movie to make it longer, and possibly so it could claim it had a zombie.

With the movie already half-over, we finally reach this mysterious island.  The group are greeted by a trail of clues that make Knight thing somebody is trying to lead them somewhere… perhaps to answers, perhaps to a trap.  Eventually they’re captured by the natives, but there’s no reason they had to be in a particular place for this to happen – the natives have been following them the whole time and could have intervened at any point.  None of this stuff reads as padding because it feels like it’s going to lead to something.  Again, it’s only when the credits unexpectedly start to roll that you realize almost the whole movie was irrelevant.

Padding is not Voodoo Island’s only problem – the dialogue is awkward at best.  Most of it is on a Revenge of the Sith level, where characters just say exactly what they’re thinking in a way that might have sounded poetic on paper but just doesn’t work out loud.  The boat captain, Gunn, gets a Gunslinger moment in which he narrates his traumatic backstory in a single talking head shot.  Knight is forever going on about Rational Explanations and then suddenly declares his change of heart when confronted with a voodoo doll.  There’s no meat to this arc at all, no sense of Knight questioning his worldview or coming to terms with anything – he just says I do believe! like he’s in a Santa Claus movie and then it’s over.

The worst of both the dialogue and the supposed character arcs occur in the love story.  There are girls in this movie, so of course there has to be a love story, and it’s terrible.  The lady half of this one is Knight’s assistant Miss Adams, who is very poised and professional and doesn’t smoke or drink, and spends the first half of the movie being tutted at by just about everybody.  The other woman in the group, Claire, tells her she could just be so pretty if she’d only change the way she did her hair.  Gunn calls her a ‘machine’ and asks if she even knows how to be a woman.  This raises some hackles in the modern viewer, who wants to see Adams appreciated for what she is rather than what she has the potential to be if she changes everything about herself.

But Voodoo Island was made in the fifties, when changing yourself to please a man was what women aspired to!  Miss Adams therefore swears off being a nerd and kisses Gunn, whose main personality trait is being a stunning asshole.  He’s drunk and bitter, and earlier in the movie he tried to hit on Claire, who had to tell him to fuck off about four times before he got the idea.  Later he insults and threatens Adams because her intelligence makes him feel like less of a man.  Apparently one kiss from her completely undoes his PTSD and he’s a better person now.

These two getting together also totally dismisses the healthy and supportive friendship Adams has with Knight, who is not only her boss but has some fatherly affection for her.  He praises her work ethic and tells her that she shouldn’t listen to people who think she’s boring.  I guess we’re supposed to think it’s good that she quits working for him so she can run off with a drunk who’s threatened to slap her, because Gunn will make her life more exciting.

At the supposed climax, the natives (an assortment of ethnic-looking extras who never speak) take the group prisoner, and they are brought before the chief (a white guy in dark makeup), who tells them why outsiders aren’t allowed on the island.  The prisoners are taken to a hut where they are tied up.  One of them is possibly murdered by voodoo, and then the chief… just lets the rest of them leave.  No conditions specified, although it’s implied that the islanders have more voodoo dolls and plenty of pins.  We don’t even find out if they actually made it back.  To get to their boat, the party will have to pass back through the carnivorous jungle without a guide, and once they reach the beach, they’ll have to fix their engine.  It really feels like there ought to have been more of a climax, never mind a denouement. As the credits begin, I was just going, “that’s it?”

The actors are mostly mediocre.  Boris Karloff tries really hard to rise above the material but never gets there, which is understandable when his lines are things like, “no, you fool, they’ll slaughter us to bits!”.  All this badness really is a terrible shame, too, because Voodoo Island’s setpiece monsters, the man-eating plants, are actually incredibly cool.  They never look real, but they’re much more creative than the standard giant Venus’ flytrap.  There’s a thing that wraps long bean-like leaves around a swimmer and drowns her, another than catches its victims with a sticky bulbous stem, and yet a third that folds ferny fronds around prey and digests it!  A movie that made proper use of these monsters would be a great time. I hope the prop people went on to the better things they deserved.

(At the other end of the effects scale are the coconut crabs I mentioned.  These are not actual coconut crabs, but dead specimens of some other, much more gracile species.  This, too, is unfortunate, because coconut crabs are living crustacean nightmares capable of killing and eating seagulls.  One theory about Amelia Earhart’s ultimate fate is that she was devoured by coconut crabs.)

As for Voodoo Island having anything to say… it has some kind of muddled point about not dismissing the supernatural out of hand, but its ‘magic’ is pretty lame, and Knight’s arc is handled so badly that it passes by without making much of an impression.  The story does seem to have another possible theme, though.  As usual I can’t tell if this is intentional or not, but Voodoo Island seems to have something to say about concepts of ownership.

The hotelier has taken an interest in the island because he did an inventory of his properties and discovered he owned it. How he came to do so, we have no idea… it must have been sold to him by somebody else who’d likewise never been there, since the tribal chief tells us that Mitchell and his companions were the first white men to ever go there.  What made that person think they owned it?  Does the concept of ownership even mean anything when you don’t know that you own something?  Does owning something entitle you to destroy it?

The natives own the island in the much less abstract sense that they live there.  The chief tells the party that his people went to this island on purpose, because they thought its nasty flora would keep white people from following them there. They want no part of modern civilization, and seem completely unaware that somebody outside their community is claiming he owns this land.  Whether the idea of ‘owning’ land is even a meaningful one to them, we can’t tell. When the Lenape allowed the Dutch to live on Manhattan Island, they probably had no idea the settlers would consider the land exclusively theirs.

These are some things that still need thinking about in the twenty-first century, and if you’re going to watch Voodoo Island do it for that and for the fun monsters.  Even then, you’re likely to be disappointed.

[riddlegecko]

I've mentioned that Wild Flower!Emma didn't summon Slack-Jaw for the first time until a few years into her time in Guatemala, but she always COULD summon him. She just didn't know at the time.

If she HAD managed to summon him, say, shortly after her powers first awoke, he wouldn't have been NEARLY as big as he is in AtC and MtC. Emma's powers awoke when she was around 12-13, and she first summoned Slack-Jaw when she was 25-ish. She had a good 12-13 years of experience with her powers at that point, so she was able to summon a flytrap around 6"4. So if she'd first summoned him when she was still getting the hang of things, Slacky would've been WAY shorter. Still bigger than your average Venus Flytrap, but still pretty dang tiny. Just below Emma's knees at the tallest, and the size of a small cat at the shortest.

This much tinier Slacky, I imagine, would be a bit more scrappy and mischievous compared to the sweet gentle giant that Emma would ACTUALLY end up summoning. More prone to trying to playfully bite Emma. Still a very loving little fella that can be easily subdued by scritches, but bitey enough that Emma would have to wear gloves whilst DEALING said scritches. And yeah, he'd get bigger with time and plenty of TLC, but for a good while, baby Slacky would be quite the ankle biter. Sometimes literally.

[occasionally-writing]

Read To Me

A/N: Finally got a chance for my head to relax and write this request XD Hey anon! Thanks for suggesting a ramking fanfic! Their antics in today’s episode had me cackling like crazy. I also had to look up info on a venus flytrap to write this fanfic, so that’s something XD Annyywwaayyysss, I hope you like it! :D

Summary: King picks up Ram from the canteen to hang out before they’re sat near the Engineer Faculty’s statue in the courtyard and King is reading about plants to Ram.

Word Count: 1255

“Hey Cool boy! Come with me! Let’s go chill in the courtyard!” Hearing the sound of King’s voice echoing around the canteen, Ram felt his cheeks beginning to fill with color when so many students that were sitting around him turned to see what the commotion was, their eyes pinned on him as King jogged over, placing his hands on the plastic picnic table Ram was sitting at. Staring at him with no amusement whatsoever in his eyes, Ram let his eyes peer around them again before he stood up, grabbing King’s wrist as he began to drag them out of the canteen, obviously not liking the way their every move was watched. Letting himself be pulled, King kept his eyes on the back of Ram’s head until they reached the small square where the engineering statue was placed. Letting go of him, Ram tossed his bag on the ground and leaned against the statue, staring up at King until he hummed and sat down beside him, crossing his legs into a pretzel position. “I’m sorry about what happened in the canteen. I know how you don’t like people staring at you, especially with how many girls were watching us.”

Leveling him with one of his stares, Ram huffed and moved his gaze elsewhere, watching the cars pulling into the parking lot and some of his fellow first years stumbling around, going to their afternoon classes. Keeping his eyes on Ram, King only moved his head when Ram had felt his staring and turned to look at him. Letting out a hum, King swung his backpack off his shoulder and dug through it, pulling out a book about plants. Eyeing it, Ram observed the cover until King opened to a page that’s corner was dogeared and began reading quietly to himself. Biting his lip, Ram eyed the pages and twitched slightly when King moved his eyes from the page, taking in the way Ram was trying to read what he was reading. Arching his brow, King moved his backpack out of the way and gestured for Ram to come closer, who tensed and gazed around. Clicking his tongue, King reached out for Ram’s wrists and gently tugged on it, gaining the younger male’s attention again.

“Come on, don’t be nervous. You can come closer and I can read to you if you want,” King chuckled, giving his wrist another tug until Ram shook his touch off and slowly scooted closer. Halting as he got as far as he wanted, Ram blinked when he noticed the stare King was giving him until he was suddenly pulled more and their thighs were pressed together and Ram could see the whole two pages of King’s book. Giving Ram a smile that was almost as bright as the sun, King turned his gaze back to his book, pointing out the plant they were currently looking at as he began to read. Listening to his words carefully, Ram developed a technique of tapping King’s leg whenever he didn’t understand something and King would elaborate and explain whatever he could to help Ram get a better understanding of a plant or word Ram didn’t quite know. “Oh! And look! This is the plant you were looking at in the pictures at my condo! The venus flytrap! It’s scientific term is dionaea muscipula! They’re more well known in the subtropical wetlands on the east coast of the states! However, I do know of a Nursery around these parts that have these kinds of plants!”

Listening to King ramble on about the venus flytrap, Ram couldn’t help the small smile that made its way onto his face before King turned his eyes on him, pausing when he noticed the look Ram was giving him. Clearing his throat, King fought the blush that was on his face and turned his attention back to the book, making sure Ram was paying attention as he began to read again, the sound of King’s steady voice being the only noise that Ram was focusing on. Before the two had known it, an hour had passed and the sun was just beginning to set, the colors in the sky fading in an array of oranges, reds and purples. Folding another corner into the book, King closed it and smiled, turning his attention to where Ram had laid his head on his shoulder, their thighs now flushed together as Ram’s hand was thrown on his leg. Chuckling softly, King tried to stay quiet enough as he put his book back in his bag and zipped it up, the sound of the zipper making Ram stir in his light sleep, his eyes blinking open as the fog of sleep faded and he realized where his head was. Shooting up, Ram stumbled back slightly and stood up, brushing off the back of his school pants while King cackled and did the same.

“No need to worry, Cool boy. This is just between you and me, I promise!” King reassured, patting Ram’s shoulder as he smiled softly when he noticed how his junior’s form relaxed and his face wasn’t as tense and pinched. Squeezing his shoulder, King leaned on Ram as he checked his phone, feeling his eyes widen when he realized the time and how late in the afternoon it was. Letting out a hum, King glanced over at Ram and raised his eyebrows as he heard the younger male’s stomach growl, signifying that he was really hungry. Rubbing his stomach, Ram coughed and turned his head towards the direction of their favorite place to eat. Grinning as he caught his train of thought, King pocketed his phone and nodded, walking past Ram as he made his way towards the street restaurant. “Let’s go get some food, my treat. And maybe after we’re done, we can go to that nursery I mentioned and find you a venus flytrap! Don’t worry, I’ll teach you everything you need to know on how to care for it.”

“...” Taking in a deep breath, Ram let it out as he rolled his eyes, moving quickly so he could follow his senior, who had stopped and was waiting for him by the exit of the university. Reaching him, Ram took his wrist like he always does and tugged King, swallowing the lump in his throat when he heard King’s bright laughter come out of him as he was pulled, Ram kept his gaze on the sidewalk until they reached the crosswalk, stopping when the glowing red sign told them not to walk. Looking down at where his hand was around King’s wrist, Ram let his thumb gently rub where the vein was, which got King’s attention, the older boy looking at him. Letting their gazes meet, Ram offered a shy smile and nodded, pulling them when the crosswalk light changed and they were safely able to cross the street. “Thank you...for reading to me…”

Feeling a blush rise on his face, King let out a high pitched laugh, one that he usually used whenever his was shy or embarrassed, before he nodded, feeling his heart flutter in his chest when Ram let out a quiet snicker of his own when he took in the laughter King had let slip. Rolling his eyes as they finally made it to the restaurant, King let out a breath as the flush they both had on their faces finally vanished and they took their respective spots, not minding the silence that enveloped them as they ordered their food and waited.