#he really gave his all for this role and that's spectacular

[mimmixerenard]

I'm certainly not the first one to have had a similar idea, but I needed to make my own version nonetheless — feat. the actor and the character he embodied so well, for so long. What a journey.

[cherry-pop-elf]

Snuggle Company

Fred Weasley x Reader x George Weasley

Can be read as platonic ((because platonic love is valid!))

Summary: Umbridge has been giving everyone nightmares. You especially, given she is well aware how close you are to the twins. Has you paranoid she will hurt you in your sleep. So, who better to keep you safe than the twins themselves?

Warnings: Anxiety, Umbridge, stress, sleepy snuggles, and it’s very short 😣 Going through ALOT right now. Pls forgive me

Here you were again. Standing just outside the dorm doors that belonged to the seventh year boys. A pair of boys would be in there that you needed. Needed badly, because you had yet another nightmare. A nightmare about her.

You worried they would be getting annoyed by this. By you waking them up again, just to climb into bed with them. Would it be better that you just straight up moved in there with them? Would the other students in their dorm be annoyed by your presence? This wasn’t your assigned bedroom after all.

You tried to power through those worrying thoughts, as you pushed the door open. You were too scared of Umbridge to give a care about what others thought. She hated you. Hated you because those twins liked you. You were the enemy by association.

You would tip toe across the room, and would hug yourself tighter. Just worried about being a burden, and a bother. Something she would often say you were. Just attacking your insecurities. She was good at that. She was good at making people hurt. Oh she was damn good at hurting people, and getting away with it.

Finally, you reached the familiar bed. Fred’s bed. Well, Fred and George’s bed. They never really out grew sharing a bed. George’s ended up being a make shift work shop table for their inventions. You found it utterly adorable how they would hold each other. They had a special bond. Magic tended to play a heavy role in that, but you still found it sweet. How that no matter how old they get they would still make sure to be there for each other. No matter what. Was comforting to see that guys don’t always worry about masculinity.

“Psst….Guys-“ You gently shook George’s shoulder, as you tried to wake them up. Didn’t want to wake the other students up, but you also didn’t want to just climb into bed either. Could startle them. Or worse. They didn’t want you to, and you invaded their personal bubble. Consent is important after all.

“Hm-?” George would rub at his eyes, while Fred yawned. They were annoyed as hell, until they saw it was you who bothered them. George gave a comforting smile, before scooting away from his twin. Fred, in turn, lifted the blanket up. You gave a sigh in relief, before climbing between them. Snuggled safely between them both.

“Thanks.” You whispered, as they would wrap their arms around you. A tangled of limbs, just like that. Was so warm. So warm, and safe. No one could get to you now. Safe between a pair of tricksters. Just like that. The smell of fire crackers, and cinnamon. That was such a comforting scent to you. Baked goods, and fire.

“No pink toads will get you-“ “Not on our watch.” The twins would tease you, as they gave you a tight squeeze. A reminder that they weren’t going anywhere. Not without you, at the very least. That had you smile, and feel a weight lift off your body. Safe. Safe again.

“We’ve got plans for her. Don’t worry.” George would reassure you, as he would nuzzle into the back of your neck. Enjoying the warmth you gave him, as his arm reached over to keep physical touch with Fred. The two most important people he has, right in his arms.

“And it’s going to be utterly spectacular. Just you wait and see.” Fred would echo, as he rested his head on yours. Forcing your nose into his neck, as his arm did the same thing. Keeping George close, as you were all safely hidden under the blanket.

“Promise.” They would share, as you were already drifting to sleep. Safe in their strong arms, and knowing you’ll be safe by morning all the same. No scary toads to haunt your dreams. Just a pair of pranksters to defend you. No matter what.

Safe snuggles. What a dream come true.

[totalswag]

what if Drew invites Reader to Italy, like to accompany him to the shooting of his movie QUEER and have a good time visiting, meet the film crew, watch him working, ect... at the same time, Drew and Reader express their feelings towards each other, not directly a confirmation being a couple but a kind of dating for the moment, softly romantic and fun 💯🌹🇮🇹

italy trip — DREW STARKEY

authors note i made one very similar with baby tatum involved when she was a a few months old (dad!drew content btw) however, thank you anon for this beautiful request, i had a fun time writing it. i hope this is what you were looking for!! i spent a lot of time on this request going back an forth making sure it was just right.

summary drew inviting you to accompany him in Italy while he films his new movie, queer, for a month. little down the road feelings towards each other unfold.

requests open

warnings traveling, filming, mentions of drinking, confessing feelings,

Drew flew to Italy last month to film his new movie, Queer. This is an important role for him, and you could not be more proud of him. You recall him being ecstatic when his manager called to inform him that he had been offered the position.

Drew bought you a plane ticket to Italy a week ago, and you spent a month with him. It threw you off surprise, but you couldn't wait to spend a month in Italy with him. He wanted you to come out and see what Italy was like, see him work, wander about, and so on.

You've been close friends for a long time. You met through mutual friends and have remained close ever since. Those closest to you are waiting for you to get together. There’s been little moments between you that show the attraction you have towards each other.

Reaching Italy was like entering a dream. There was beauty to be found everywhere they turned, and the air was fragrant with the aroma of fresh pasta and blossoming flowers.

You have spent the last three days in Italy so far. First two days consisted of you relaxing because jet lag really got to you – you aren’t used to traveling across the world.

You were gushing about the gorgeous country the entire time. It was spectacular in every way. The number of times you thanked Drew for inviting him on this vacation was too many for him to count on his fingers. 

Drew gave you a tour of the set, introduced you to the actors, and allowed you to watch him film a few scenes on your third day in Italy. It was impossible to look away from Drew as he was filming a scene. It was too good to pass up the chance to be at his side as he developed his art and saw the magic of filmmaking come to life.

He introduced you to the cast, all very sweet. Had good conversations with them too.

“The way he goes into character instantly, Y/N, is so amazing,” Drew’s manager whispered, “He loves what he does and it shows.” you respond still keeping your eyes on him film a scene.

Having the chance to speak with Dainel Greg was a dream come true. You spent your childhood watching his movies whenever you could with your father. He maintained the conversation and was quite kind. You told him about his movies as James Bond and watching them with your dad.

“We should go out tonight, what do you think?” Drew asked, wrapping his arm over your shoulder as you walked off set.

"Are you taking me around like a tour guide?" Jokingly hip-checking him and giggling, "It seems like a plan to me."

Your comment made him laugh, "You are such a dork, you know that right," as he looked down at you and a small smile appeared on the corner of his mouth.

“We’ll go out to the bars, grab food, and explore” shrugging his shoulders.

“Sounds like a plan to me,” smiling.

Drew and you found time to relax and enjoy one other's company. Your chats were effortless, full of laughter, common interests, and unconscious connection. There was a faint undercurrent of something deeper between you, a subtle but obvious spark that lasted whenever you were together.

When you and Drew stepped outside as the sun started to set, the music was playing softly in the background and a gentle breeze caressed your skin. It was just breathtaking. Drew couldn't help but notice how you were living in the moment.

Drew ushered you in front of him as he entered the bar and showed you where the drinks were. Leaning forward against the counter, you crossed your arms and looked over the menu. Drew was standing close to you, examining the menu.

He lifted his beer with his right hand and took a long sip, saying, "See, I told you this bar is good."

Pushing your finished plate to the side and lifting your beer in your palm, "I'm just glad you brought me here. I think I might need to take some home," sarcastically completing your statement, Drew grins.

For the next thirty minutes, you two stayed at the bar sipping more beer and discussing your garden you started at home. You've always enjoyed gardening, especially when it comes to adding color to your house with flowers.

Drew chuckles, "It's been going great and you should come by and take a look. I've been waking up early in the morning to get it all done before the sun comes out, and I'm looking like a sweaty pig the entire time." He nods.

"What's the reason behind your laughter? It's true that when I initially started working in the garden in the afternoon, it appeared as though I had just gotten out of the shower. You sigh, slumping your shoulder, and then giggle when you give it some more thought.

"I'm glad to hear it's almost finished; I know how much you wanted to grow your own garden when you bought your house," he said softly, looking at you with piercing blue eyes.

His response made you feel warm and fuzzy. Your cheeks reddened and you buried your face in your shoulder. You don’t know why you’re feeling this way all sudden.

It's almost the end of your trip, sad. Three more days till you leave the beautiful country, Italy.

The last few weeks have been a dream come true for your book. Being alongside Drew made the experience a lot more fun. When he wasn't filming, you two spent your days and nights in Italy. You two had lots of flirtatious encounters that left you both flustered.

Earlier today, Drew and you went down to a museum. Drew brought his digital camera to take pictures of art you looked at.

There was something Drew said that stuck with you for the rest of the day,

“C'mon you look beautiful, Y/N, please.” 

He had complimented you before, but this time felt different. He's been more loving during the trip, making tiny comments that make the butterflies in your stomach run crazy.

Now you're sitting on the balcony couch, a blanket wrapped over your body, watching the sun set fully. A chilly air struck your face. It felt great. Music can be heard in houses or around town.

Drew's footsteps approach the balcony, and he holds two glasses of wine in his hands. You peek over your shoulder, a smile spreading across your face. He places them on the coasters in front of you and takes a seat next to you.

"Thank you, kind sir," you say before taking a sip of the wine you bought earlier today.

"Anytime, let me know what you think" he says casually, his gaze fixed on you the entire time.

You go on to tell him how excellent the wine is and that he should bring the entire bottle back here because you might as well drink it all. 

Drew couldn't help but giggle at your choice of words, but he was also careful because he knew how you got drunk on wine.

He feels the same way, so if you both get drunk on wine, you'll win.

"What's been your favorite experience this trip?" Drew asks, sliding his right arm around your shoulder, and you respond by leaning into his warm touch.

"Everything," you say as you wander off into the distance, "and being here with you." You lean your head back and jab your pointer finger at his cheek. flirtatiously but playfully.

You can notice a change in Drew's physical sensation. You would rather hear what he has to say in return than say anything more. It's clear that he didn't anticipate your final statement.

"I've had a lot of fun with you too, and I was hoping we would do more stuff like this with me and you when our schedules aren't so busy?" His voice sounds unsteady and nervous but he maintains it steady.

“Like a couple?” you question.

“Mhm yes, like a couple” his cheeks are getting red, can’t tell if it's the wine or his cheeks.

He turns his body to face you and places both hands on your lap. "Look, Y/N." I brought you on the trip to confirm my feelings for you, which proved to be genuine.What I am trying to get across is that I view you as more than a friend, Y/N. When I'm around you, you bring me so much joy and happiness that I could go on and on about how I feel.

Your brain is going in circles as you hear the words come out Drew’s mouth. Paying attention by the way he expresses how he feels, genuine and honest. You can’t help but smile when he brings up how you make him feel. All you can do is wrap your arms around him.

"I feel the same way, Drew. I was too terrified to tell you; I had no idea how you felt," you say, moving away from him and peering into those blue eyes that make you feel like you're on cloud nine.

You saw Drew's repeated stares at your eyes and lips. He leans in to give you a short kiss, then pulls away to watch how you react. You grin. He smiles before crashing his lips back against yours, lips moving in unison.

For the next few days, you two took it slow. Not making it formal right away, but rather enjoying the process of dating while remaining casual.

The next three days passed quickly. The second to last day consisted of you taking a day trip to the beach, walking through market after market, stopping for ice cream, taking lots of pictures, grabbing pizza to go to the beach, watching the waves crash against the shore with the sky looking beautiful, music playing in the background, and sharing a few kisses.

This trip was definitely something to remember.

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[cactusjuiceisquenchy]

I really like that blue lock is a series that doesn’t allow it’s players to get comfortable in a supporting role. With a sport like this, we naturally come across quite a few duos, and they tend to be composed of a dominant striker and a support position passer who believes wholeheartedly in the other’s goal making ability. spoilers ahead

We see this with reo and Nagi, and Kaiser and ness and recently with isagi and hiori.

And to a certain extent, it works. These strikers need someone who can keep up with them and bring their goals into fruition. This is one way the striker can get stronger. We even see Julian from France actively working to create this partner for himself in the latest match.

But blue lock is making a point to show that the type of ego that is focused on another is not the best path forward for either player. This is first shown in nagi and reo. They have to break up to become stronger. I watched some videos and read some stuff online and the consensus seemed to be that reo gave in a bit too easily. It would have been better if he continued on his path without nagi. And the awesome bait and switch is that the narrative AGREES. The signs are all pointing to a breakup part 2. I think having them working together again served two purposes. It reaffirmed their relationship and shared goal. And it proved that they aren’t ready to work together again yet. Reo’s ego CANNOT be nagi or they will not make it to the world stage. This is really smart because it sets up their shared goal to be playing together again in the future to win the World Cup. They cannot evolve if they are codependent.

The same goes for Kaiser and ness. Each was using the other as a crutch. For Kaiser, ness allowed him to defend his throne and for ness, Kaiser became his whole reason for playing. We’ve seen this story before. In Order to grow and evolve, the duo has to split and Kaiser leaves ness to continue chasing his evolution. I think he knew on some level he was also holding ness back. Im hoping we get to see ness evolve during this match or the future in a world without Kaiser.

Finally— hiori. Now this one is actually special because unlike the others, hiori’s ego isn’t actually isagi, rather it is to develop the worlds greatest striker. Isagi just so happens to fit the bill at the moment. The play style and position is close to reo and ness but the intrinsic motivation is a bit more self centered than theirs. I think this is probably more aligned with the narrative’s ideal version for this role. It’s also very similar to Charles who has a selfish play style despite being a primary passer(idk the right term for this position sorry). That said, we have to wait and see if it ends up working out for him.

Long story short, if you want to pass, be someone who chooses where to pass, not who to pass to.

If you want to strike, be able to do it with your own power, not reliant on someone giving you the ball.

That way once the ultimate chemical reaction occurs, it becomes truly spectacular.

Thank you for coming to my TedTalk.

[redbatchedcumbermayned]

"I didn’t even know that there was the possibility of a romance option when voicing Heinrix" - Interviewing Chris Tester part 2

We're continuing our interview with Chris Tester, the voice of Heinrix van Calox in Owlcat's CRPG Rogue Trader. In this part we speak about insights into Heinrix's character, how the process of recording voice lines for a video game works, if Chris would romance Heinrix in game, and interacting with his fans.

Part 1 of the interview

Part 3 of the interview

I will publish this interview in three parts over the next week in text form and with the accompanying audio file (the audio quality is not spectacular but tumblr limits uploads to 10MB). If you quote or reshare, please quote me as the original source.

F: So, you already talked a bit about Heinrix as a character. What drew you to the character or what hidden depth did you find in the character?

CT: Well, I hope I found some depth to the character. That contrast between principles or values that you seem to be holding onto and lots of unprocessed trauma going on underneath. Sure, that seems interesting, that seems like a really interesting thing to find. Because you can understand, therefore, the appeal of an ideology, which gives you the answers and it tells you what to do. Essentially, it gives you a role, authority, it gives you status, you completely understand the appeal of that. Just like I find voice-over incredibly appealing and exciting: it gives me structure and authority and the illusion that I know what I'm talking about and what I'm doing. 

And then there's the flip side: you could make him heretical in some way, shape or form. And you know, I love, obviously, the fact that he belongs to part of that world which I'm sort of familiar with. Where a lot of the more interesting characters are the ones that have disavowed this God Emperor kind of like status in one way or the other, they tend to have a little bit more going on. They're not two-dimensional villains, not all of them, not all of the time anyway. Whereas on the one hand he's not going full chaos, there was just an interesting tension there to explore. Also, it kind of reminded me a little bit of the Eisenhorn series, which again, it's an Inquisitor that through his pursuit of different things starts to question and use the powers of the warp for his own purposes. A very different character, but still, there are those parallels that I really liked, that fallibility, that vulnerability to a degree, but I wouldn't say too much because I didn't really know how vulnerable or how much of a journey he was going to have in the early stages. I didn't know that until we were recording, I'll be honest. 

And I didn’t even know that there was the possibility of a romance option, until we were like: Oh, these are romancing lines. And I was like, you what now? So, sorry, I appear to be saying some quite forward things, from his point of view anyway, that's slightly taken me aback. They were like: oh yeah, you're romanceable, you can have a romance. I was like, oh, okay, right. I'll just think back to the five hours or so of recording that we've done up to this point and pray that I've made the right choices. So that was a bit of a crazy ride, but thanks to Olga, the writer of my character, she gave really astute directions. She wasn't in all of the sessions, but the majority, especially when there were big plot beats to explain to me what the hell was going on, however, roughly. She was great. And also the technicians at 3B. I was working with a lot of different members of the group technicians slash directors as well. And they were great in terms of giving me not exactly the bare minimum details, but the bare minimum details that I needed in order to be able to make choices quickly, but strongly and relevant to the game. So yeah, it was quite a trip.

F: Thank you. Since you have been trained as a stage actor do you bring a certain physicality to voice acting? If you embody Heinrix, do you puff your chest? Are you rigid?

CT: Definitely. I think there's the reason why rather than having a small booth, I record in a room is, that I can explore those dynamics as much as possible. And the fact that I was able to record standing and very upright and taking that space was vitally important. Obviously, there's the action stuff that really helps when you're actually making fighting noises. That's one thing. But I think in terms of real subtle differences to be able to, as well as mic proximity when he's speaking under his breath and that kind of thing, that's obviously incredibly vital, but even the subtle things of being able to have that big open physicality because he is so often so imperious because he thinks he's absolutely right. That was a vital aspect to explore and just being able to be upright and expressive in that made such a huge difference. 

And also when, without wanting to give too much away, he's in more constricted circumstances, shall we say, trying to do that just purely through the voice means that it all becomes about the sound that you're making as opposed to the truth of the character's journey without wanting to be, again, too much of a cliche, but focusing on that rather than am I making the right gurgling noise?

F: Were you offered any other character to audition for Owlcat? Or if you could, which other character would you like to voice?

CT: I couldn't say any of the other characters. I do play a couple of NPCs randomly. I think before even I had Heinrix. There's some cockney London geezer in there that is immediately disposable. That was me. That was my kind of guaranteed role. I was like, great, fantastic, because I did the audition for Heinrix and then there was quite a few months before it was actually kind of confirmed. I thought the role had gone to somebody else. As with many of these things, you just don't hear back. If you don't hear back, you just assume it's dead and then suddenly it'll come back up or it won't or you'll see another voice actor posting on Instagram going “amazing session” and you slightly die inside and then you move on. 

But in terms of the other characters, I mean, I've met, at least digitally online, the vast majority of the principal companion cast and they're all lovely and amazing and I associate them with their performances. For better or worse, Heinrix is very much my kind of casting and I loved it. Not because he's pretty in a particularly posh kind of way, but that helps. Sure, I'll go with that kind of slightly emotionally constipated. I'm very well cast, very well done, but I think so is everybody else. Throughout the entire game, it's a bit of a who's who, they might not be all household names, but in terms of for myself, the actors that I know in some big parts and some really small parts, the actors that I know in the UK and in the U.S. voice-over scene, so much talent, so that it was just an honour to be included in that really.

F: So now I have to ask you a question from our discord server. Would you romance Heinrix if you were playing a female Rogue Trader? 

CT: I think that would be a bit weird. No, I'll just watch videos of other people romancing him slash me. Is that more or less weird? I mean, I'm 42 years old. I've spent far too much time playing with myself already. So, let's just draw a line under that, but other people are welcome to. That's absolutely fine. My only thing, without wanting to overstate it too much, is that I was very surprised that there was anything around any character that I've been related to but as with so many of the other companions as well, that's a testament to the writing. Credit to the whole Owlcat team in that respect.

F: Would you like to continue working with Owlcat in the future in another capacity?

CT: Oh, God. Yeah. They've not made me sign an NDA, so I can say, not name a thing, but there's DLC for one of their other titles, which I'm going to be in, and that's in a completely different world. There's that thing of once you've had one really positive experience with the developer and the type of games that they create. The ones that are very story focused, that's the type of games that I'm passionate about. I was brought up on these things like the Mass Effect Trilogy. You know, that absolutely iconic kind of stuff, and so to be a part of someone else's experience to facilitate that kind of longer storytelling stuff is exactly what I would be after. They've got a great process, amazing writers and I also think that the games themselves look fantastic. So yeah, I'm a fan of that.

F: So your fan base has certainly expanded since the release of the game. Do you mind having a female fan base now? Have you noticed that there is a bit of a shift because Warhammer 40k for the totally uninitiated looks like a male hobby and unfortunately some part of the male fans are very aggressive against female fans.

CT: Are absolutely ridiculous. Idiots, essentially. Because my relationship to the whole Warhammer 40k thing is like, I played it when I was really young, and then you put away your childish things. I'm saying that in inverted commas, that's kind of ironic or whatever, and then didn't really get back into it until someone gave me a book and I realised that the lore was actually quite good, quite interesting, and then actually really good and really interesting, and I therefore have done some novels for them and a couple of video games as well. 

But to your question, do I mind? No, of course I don't mind. I'm very happily married and well adjusted, so I definitely don't mind as long as it's all respectful, if that makes sense. Surprise, surprise, female fans seem to conduct themselves with that level of respect or if there is a server which is going into crazy, crazy character scenarios and that kind of stuff, no one's sending me a link to that. And even if it is, it's the character, it's not me, and so that's all quite healthy and good. And I think I'm definitely not in a position where I should be censoring any of that kind of thing at all. I think it's all positive and very, very healthy and everybody that I've interacted with has been incredibly respectful. So, I think that's great. 

And I think being able to portray these characters that offer that level of connection is great. We're in a post Baldur's Gate world, I suppose. Not that there weren't other games that did this, but on that scale and everything. I think the value that the games can offer in that. Rogue Trader is hugely valuable and I definitely wouldn't want to censure any of that at all.

F: Yeah, it was nice. I reconnected a lot with people who have this fandom experience again that I had in the Eddie Redmayne fandom more than 10 years ago when it was small, when you have a rather small group of fans and then a very nice person that you're a fan of, and you can interact with.

CT: So people have contacted me via Cameo, for example. And, you know, they've had a certain particular playthrough and then they say, well, I would like you to voice this letter from Heinrix or whatever.

F: That was me.

CT: There have been more than just you is what I'm saying, but sorry, not to say that I'm a whore and I'll just do anything, but you're not the only person who has come to me with that kind of thing. And that's great. That's a pleasure, because it's continuing to tell the story on a wider scale. But also the fact that you can personalise and make it your own. And that's the brilliant thing. 

That's part of the whole appeal of a video game, as opposed to it being a theatre piece or a film or something else is that it was very much your experience, your playthrough. You can have multiple versions of the thing that you kind of like one but you can really structure your own narrative. And that's a fascinating thing. You get to iterate on it yourself. You know, if one stage of that is also being able to call upon the voice actor to facilitate that, I think that's a cool thing, you know, as long as it doesn't get too weird or too whatever, but you know, whatever two consenting adults want to exchange money for or time, great, fine. I think that's less weird than getting an AI to do it personally. I think that level of storytelling is a great thing.

[saintescuderia]

Why Daniel Ricciardo Really *Really* Needs To Do Well in Australia

He said he has nothing to prove but many (Helmut Marko) would disagree

Daniel Ricciardo was all smiles while being interviewed in a domestic terminal in Australia. As he should be. Going back home to Perth before having his home race so early on in the season is exactly what he would want right now. Comfort. Security. Familiarity. 

Especially since those three things are the key parts missing in his F1 career right now. 

A renowned late-breaker, Daniel was well suited to Red Bull’s cars that were aerodynamically superior and with a focus on the front end. Hence why they suit his driving style; there is no need for heavy breaking or understeer. As per McLaren’s cars which were rear-end focused and required such breaking. 

Whilst Daniel Ricciardo’s lack of adaptability can be a source of criticism unto itself — isn’t a marker of a good driver that they can adapt? — it’s almost excusable. Daniel Ricciardo never belonged in a McLaren! Blue is his colour, not papaya. It’s just the car, the team. He was “unrecognisable” from all the “bad habits” he picked up being away from his ‘home team’ at Red Bull. 

So, of course, it was inevitable that he did come back to Red Bull. 

Inevitable in the sense that the “soft spot” Christian Horner has for Daniel Ricciardo is evident in how, despite Max Verstappen’s performance in 2017, Horner was still willing to compromise on the ‘lead driver’ model Red Bull so often adopts. 2018’s move to Renault was a shock in more ways than one; “we gave him everything he wanted,” was the line Horner gave. 

Daniel’s comeback was two fold and staggered all the same. He was in the infamous ‘marketing role’ (that evaded a proper official title) for Red Bull Racing — which helped promote the awkwardly lacklustre pairing of Max Verstappen and Checo Perez — before infamously replacing Nyck De Vries for 2023’s AlphaTauri. However, it was staggered by the wrist injury from a collision with the other Australian driver. The one who replaced him at McLaren. The one who can adapt to McLaren’s break earlier/rear-end style of car that Daniel never seemed to adapt to. 

A style of car that the likes of Liam Lawson drove — and outperformed — in spectacular drives when he replaced the injured Ricciardo late last year. 

So where does this leave our Australian Honey Badger? He’s demonstrated the wider Paddock that he isn’t very skilled in adapting to cars, he’s lacking in driver confidence — which is crucial for late-breaking, a fundamental to his successful overtaking — and is being outperformed by both Yuki Tsunoda and Sergio Perez. As in, the two people he needs to beat to resume his seat next to Max Verstappen. 

Daniel started 2024 topping Bahrain FP1 to now finishing both races at the back end of the grid. The race this weekend in Australia is going to have a massive spotlight in him. And this is not just because his face is plastered everywhere as the Australian GP markets the shit out of the charismatic face of F1. He really, really, really will need to do well to show that the last two races were just him off to a rocky start, that this is not the end. 

Because if it is, it really will be the end. 

[jokeroutsubs]

ENG Translation: Joker Out appeared today (3.11.2023) on the Headliner.rs, a Serbian digital magazine.

You can find the original text here

ENG TRANSLATION:

The phenomenon Joker Out… In Americana Hall* it was like there was no tomorrow

*in Dom Omladine

For those unaware, if they still exist, Joker Out is a pop-rock band from Ljubljana which gained fame after participating in this year’s Eurovision. Even though they only won 21st place, their career blossomed after the competition and so they became one of the most successful (if not the most successful) acts that participated this year.

They sold out tickets for nearly every concert with incredible speed, with a special emphasis on the former Yugoslavian countries. But, why is that?

First of all, this charming five are a boy band. A real, classic, boy band. We haven’t had such a phenomenon in our area for a long time, the younger generation have almost no experience with something like this. They came onto the scene at the right moment and gave the audience what they needed. And Eurovision came into their career at the perfect time to give them a flying start and to launch them from a quality, alternative Slovenian band straight to the stars.

The older generation loves them for their undeniable quality. When something that stands out from the crowd emerges, in which you can see years of work and which, as the career goes on, records only progress, the older generations stop being so elitist and know how to recognize it.

They partially love them because of nostalgia. With their attitudes and style, they are adorably reminiscent of some bands of the 80s and very easily bring back memories and briefly bring experiences that the generations growing up back then remember with melancholy.

Young people love them… well, is an explanation really necessary? Their concerts are like a party, two hours of euphoria and a total occupation of all the senses. It’s not hard to win over a young audience if you are like them: five charismatic guys who radiate with their existence.

For months, competing for a second of their attention, girls have been screaming over each other in the audience. They know the lyrics by heart, without knowing a word of Slovenian.

Tears of joy are already pouring with the opening lyrics of the first song. Having conquered Novi Sad, these guys arrived in Belgrade on the 2nd of November. The countdown is finally over.

Labyrinth-like lines in front of Dom Omladine hinted at a fight for a place in the first row, and even a few rows back. When the doors finally opened, the fastest secured their desired place, others were defeated and some gave up at the start and chose a place further back, for a more intimate experience.

Colourful outfits, shiny, neon makeup, sequins, pearls, latex, lace and who knows what other details and accessories found themselves in the same place, in the same crowd. So divided, yet perfectly harmonious, it’s clear these people belong where they are. When the members of the band joined their colourful scene on stage, the spectrum was complete.

Entering the stage, right on time, tensely prolonged but so spectacular, they set a standard that won’t be beaten for a long time. Joker Out opened their first concert in Belgrade with the song “Sunny Side of London”.

They introduced themselves as “five Slovenians who are here to sing for you”, but they are, really, much more than that. Bojan’s interactions with the audience, his smiles, looks and irresistible personality caused general hysteria from the very beginning.

With his wit, he held the audience’s attention without stopping and immediately gained their full trust. Although he’s the most mobile, with the role of frontman, he’s far from being the center of attention. It seems this is a band where everything is divided into five equal parts. The audience goes absolutely crazy for each of them.

“Bojan, I am not a baby seal, but can you please adopt me?”, is just one of the endearing banners that could be seen in the audience. Letters, bouquets, and bras flew towards them, almost non-stop.

Delighted that everyone present knew the lyrics and therefore addressed him in fluent Slovenian, Bojan spoke to us in fluent Serbian.

Although the audience was often louder than the speakers, the loudest scream was let out with our “Demons”, while “Katrina” was dedicated to a randomly selected girl in the audience.

There was such a strong collective energy that it would draw in even someone who has never heard even one of their songs. At the advice of the band, everyone hugged someone who needed it right at that moment.

To summarise, why did this phenomenon take over? When you have someone who gives their all to the audience, when they enjoy what they’re doing, everything makes sense. The five of them absolutely deserve every second of their success, there’s no doubt. Today there’s rarely a band that immensely values their fans, on whose stage there’s respect between the members. What they have is earned through sacrifice, work and talent. They’re aware of it and so are their fans.

These tireless, energetic guys gave their insatiable audience an unforgettable encore of five songs. As they themselves say, we danced and loved each other all night (loved them, ourselves, each other, or mutually, whichever happened to whom) and all that - as if there were no tomorrow.

After tonight flower petals, confetti, sequins, lots of sighs and someone’s vocal chords will be cleaned up from the Americana Hall in Dom Omladine, but the spirit of some seemingly normal Slovenian guys will remain within for a long time.

Translation cr: @moonlvster

(The photos are from their concert at 'Dom omladine', Belgrade)

[pommunist]

Maybe I'm a little bitter. Perhaps.

But it does frustrate me when people claim BBH was the ONLY one who cared for all the eggs.

I feel like it takes away from all of the parents efforts on the behalf of all of the eggs safety. I remember when every hand was on deck at every moment for every kid at a moments notice.

Yes. He played the most, therefore he had literally every material needed and all the enchants and all the armor you could ask for. But to claim he was the best and only one who cared isn't fair to the other parents.

They gave all they could at any time they could for those kids.

They'd drop everything to take care of them.

Idk, maybe I'm just irritable after everything going on but it's kinda driving me crazy.

Yes I know he was THE babysitter. Yes I know he spent a ton of time with every egg. But comparing his time played to other parents who gave all they could is fucked up.

I saw people claiming he was a better dad than so many parents and saying things like "they're basically his eggs anyways"

Also. No. He wasn't there for every single eggs departure.

He wasn't there for Chay.

Yes I know he wanted to be. But couldn't due to schedules ect ect.

and while he said goodbye to lullah the day before he ALSO didn't send her off.

Again, maybe I'm fucking bitter. But this Fandom for some reason always seemed okay with dismissing Chay all the time. From his admins being changed up to playing multiple roles.

He just wasn't as important to so many fucking people and I think I'm gonna stay mad about that for a while.

I'm aware that he's done a lot. I'm not saying he hasn't.

But holy shit, give credit to others besides bbh. He's spectacular reguardless, genuinely a great guy. But holy shit this has been bothering me.

Tbh i’ve seen many people say Bbh cared for all the eggs but not that many who’ve said he was the only one ?

I think I agree in the sense that QSMP fandom sometimes tends to label anything as a parental relationship when it doesn’t need to be?

Like sometimes a caretaker doesn’t have to be a parent sometimes a caretaker is just the neighbourhoods demon babysitter and that doesn’t mean the relationship is less than or more than a parental one. One of my favourite aspects of qsmp is that family took many many many forms and it doesn’t have to be labelled as parent/child always.

To draw a comparison, I know there are some people who were upset Bbh adopted Pomme but I never minded it, I just wish more people had taken interest in her relationship with the french speakers, but I still don’t mind all the talk around her relationship with qBbh

Also I kinda like that Chay’s and Talullah’s admins goodbyes were only with Philza, death family forever ! Plus the eggs being gone happened in very specifics and weird conditions, that can’t only be analysed through an in character eye.

But I agree Chayanne is a very under appreciated egg, personally i really like the little guy :(

[fruitgummies01]

Never hesitate to make long posts if you want to cause you'd be surprised how long many of posts are on Tumblr when they're giving reviews and all so yeah don't feel bad or hesitate if you want to.

The review was really nice to read. it's always good to read things from other people's perceptions.

Now about your complaint you're not the only one tho, i have read another jk biased person's review and they said the same thing, many people said the same thing during BTS's doc last year. I really don't get the point of doc if you're not going to give some in depth details of how the album is made like what was the thought process, how did you chose the songs, how you came up with this that like there's so many things to talk about but BH/HYBE don't know how to do that.

With the recent work done by hybe i really feel like they just do it as if it's last min work cause they know fans will be there to support no matter what. The editing for shows, the art for albums, the concepts literally all of it is half ass work for everyone. It's like u grow big and you stop giving fks about things. this is for hybe tho not members.

Thank you for this! One thing I forgot to mention that was extremely noticeable was when JK would talk about the fans he would always refer to them as army, and "we" and "us". You could absolutely feel his connection to BTS, his members as one team, and to the fans. It is something he felt deeply about, and that really, really came across.

In terms of what you said, "...in depth details of how the album is made like what was the thought process, how did you chose the songs, how you came up with this that like there's so many things to talk about", I watched an interview BangPD gave a while ago and he pretty much explained a little behind the scenes info on the making of the album and how scooter played a major role in getting the songs and a&r. Maybe that's why none of that was included. It did cross my mind after I posted the review that maybe it's also because so much of who JK is as a person is in large part due to BTS and his members that they didn't want to get too much into that because this documentary was solely focused on him as a solo artist. But it would have been awesome to hear from some of the other staff who were with JK on his journey, who clearly adore him and were always with him.

The concert footage was really spectacular on the big screen though, especially Golden Live on Stage. Maybe it was the time constraint or the lack of access that the production had to certain footage, but it was a great first documentary, in a long career that will absolutely have more. I just hope hybe manages to get it together, because sadly idk what they're doing. Just a complete mess at that building.

[kitausuret]

#eddie brock#he's gone through the cycle twice#no i will not elaborate#...unless someone asks Hey, Kita, I'm asking

(The original post, here, read: "I used to be a human then i was godlike and perfect for a while and then I got tired and now im an beast. you know how it is".)

So. We start at the beginning.

Man, still sorting out symbiosis. (Amazing Spider-Man Annual #26)

Godlike, justified in all his actions no matter the cost. (Amazing Spider-Man #300)

Beast, a true predator. (Amazing Spider-Man #347)

Man again, briefly, having found peace and reflection at last. (Amazing Spider-Man #362)

Godlike, having found purpose in a new place and a new role. (Venom: Lethal Protector [1993] #1 and #2)

Beast, as symbiosis falls apart. (Spectacular Spider-Man [2003] #1 & #3)

Human, as he loses what made him Venom, and is left only with himself. (Marvel Knights Spider-Man #6, and Amazing Spider-Man #568)

Godlike, when becoming Anti-Venom gave him the closest he's pretty much ever had to a true savior complex. (Amazing Spider-Man #569, Venom [2011] #7)

Beast, in the absence of the only thing that gave him meaning and direction in his life in the absence of his other - though in time it is something he learns to channel. (Venom [2011] #17, #35)

And human again, when he hands Toxin off to Jubulile and has to find some kind of peace with himself... (Carnage [2016] #15)

...until he finally rejoins with the Venom Symbiote. There is certainly a kind of divinity in Eddie's reunion with it. He is its savior, for once, rather than its would-be destroyer as he was for so long. He lacks the delusions of grandeur of past times, given his numerous reality checks since the last cycle, but his understanding, while imperfect, feels almost holy at times. There's a spiritual undertone to it all.

This era was, really, the joining of all three feelings - human. divine. beast. (Venom [2016] #150)

But the moment that tips the scales back to Beast is the return of Knull... (Venom [2018] #2-3)

...and ultimately, Eddie is shoved rudely back into his Humanity just long enough for death to claim him. (Venom [2018] #31)

Not even death can hold Eddie Brock, though, and so obviously his next phase is a tumultuous one, but it is Divine nonetheless as the King in Black... though sporting a look unexpected for him. (Venom [2021] #1)

Time is meaningless in Meridius' Garden, but there is a definite shift back yet again to Beast in the form of Bedlam. (Venom [2021] #20)

Until finally, he finds some semblance of all three - Human, Divine, Beast, in the forms of Eddie Brock, the Eventuality, and the as-of-yet-unnamed combination of the (more or less) resurrected Eddie Brock and the remnants of his battle with Bedlam. (Venom [2021] #18, #21)

I know originally I said this was two cycles... but really it's multiple. Eddie is trapped in this never-ending circle of just... over, and over, and over, never truly finding peace. So, really, what is he? Is he just human? Is he a savior? Is he a monster?

That's the question, isn't it? He certainly "knows how it is".

[roguerevieweradl]

Heathers Review (Pelican Productions) - 12/09/2024

Stepping into Heathers, I knew we were in for a wild ride, but I wasn’t prepared for the sheer power and presence of this cast. 

Tayla Prime as Heather Chandler was an absolute force of nature. She dominated the stage with so much authority that I found myself genuinely intimidated from the audience! I wouldn’t dare cross her Chandler—if I were in Westerberg High, I’d be running for the hills. It was a performance that oozed confidence and power, embodying the iconic ‘mythic b****’ perfectly.

Teagan Garvey as JD had some great moments, especially in the beginning where he played up JD’s charm to a T. His descent into madness was compelling, with Garvey really showcasing the complexity of the role. There were a few moments where his vocals fell a little flat, but overall, he was stellar and brought a lot to the table.

Then there’s Samantha Keough as Veronica—wow. I have never been so in awe of a voice. She didn’t just deliver; she owned the character, adding her unique vocal flair rather than just doing a by-the-numbers version of Veronica. I’d go so far as to say she’s one of the best Veronicas I’ve seen in Adelaide!

Caitlin Laventure as Heather Duke was a standout for me. Talk about a triple threat—the dancing, the singing, the acting, all flawlessly executed. I honestly can’t believe she isn’t already a staple in the professional scene. It was hard to keep my eyes off her whenever she was on stage.

Lily Horton-Stewarts Heather McNamara was another highlight. "Lifeboat" was a real emotional journey, and she took the audience right along with her. I could feel her anxiety bubbling under the surface, and when it broke, it was powerful. A beautifully crafted performance.

And then, Darcie Yelland as Martha—my heart. She brought so much warmth and life to Martha that you just wanted to give her a hug. By the time "Kindergarten Boyfriend" hit, I was a complete mess. It’s a challenging role to pull off, but Yelland absolutely nailed it.

I have to mention my favorite duo of the night: Zach Bartlett and Freddie Windle as Kurt and Ram. These two bounced off each other perfectly, delivering the humor and energy the roles require. They’re an iconic duo, and I truly hope to see them working together in the future!

Hannah Brown as Ms. Fleming brought so much life to the ditzy teacher role. You could really sense how much she cared about her News Crew… which made for a lot of laughs. I thoroughly enjoyed watching her performance!

The song of the night had to be ‘My Dead Gay Son’. The dads, Leo Sage and Hanno de Klerk, absolutely nailed it! The audience couldn’t stop clapping, and we just wanted more. Well done to both actors for a standout performance.

The ensemble deserves massive credit as well. The choreography and vocals were tight and well-constructed, with each piece fitting together like a perfectly synchronized puzzle. You could just feel the joy radiating off the entire cast, which gave the performance an extra spark of magic.

As for the set design, it was nothing short of spectacular. I loved the concept—especially how the brick wall split apart, and the two-story levels made the stage feel dynamic and immersive. I found myself wondering how long it took to build because it was just so beautifully crafted.

The lighting was also brilliantly executed. I loved how they played within the scheme. My favorite moment had to be during the bomb sequence, where the stage transformed into what looked like a disco ball for just a moment, symbolizing the explosion—it was an inventive and effective choice.

Sound was mostly on point. While there were a few minor issues with mics not being turned on in time or some effects coming in late, the sound mix overall was fantastic. Missing a couple of lines didn’t take away from how well everything sounded.

Big shoutout to the creative team. You’ve put on an amazing rendition of Heathers, and I’m excited to see what you all work on next. Overall, this cast for Heathers knocked it out of the park. From powerhouse performances to stellar ensemble work, this show was a treat from start to finish.

[emeritus-fuckers]

I’d like to formally request a young papa Nihil falling head over heels for reader

Bonus points if one of his songs plays in his head and he just associates that song with that person

I am more than happy to write this :D - Nyx

♡ Papa Nihil falling head over heels for reader ♡

Papa Nihil wandered through darkened corridors of the Ministry, it was a bleak time of year. The lights of the winter solstice celebrations had been extinguished and the Ministry lacked a certain something. Then again it had lacked something from the day Sister had left him.

Still tonight would be different, tonight was a party to welcome the new members.

He straightened out the collar of his tailored black shirt then tugged on the sleeve of his leather jacket.

Perfect.

He smiled to himself, tonight he'd finally found some slither of happiness in being single. He'd thrown himself into his role as Papa and the Clergy was in the best state it had ever been. Perhaps Sister would let him sing again!

“You’ve been playing” he sang to an invisible audience as he strutted down the corridor.

A movement out of the corner of his eye caught his attention.

“Around with magic that is black” his gaze fell on you.

You smiled at him and he was drawn in, he fell for you faster than the Dark lord fell from Heaven. You were perfect, some enchantress sent to tempt him.

He flashed you his irresistible grin as he sang "But all the powerful magical mysteries never give a single thing back." Solely to you, and you alone.

When he was finished you gave him a round of applause, and he bowed deeply.

"Thank you, Papa." You say with another perfect smile. "I love your songs, I'm happy to hear you still sing them."

"I’m glad you like them." He said lightly. Nihil wanted to add something else but his entire being was entranced by the sight of you, words abandoned him.

You gave him another seductive smile, bowed slightly and taking his silence as a cue to leave, walked off.

He watched you go, the daft grin still plastered across his face. How nice it was to meet someone so genuine as you.

He tried to focus on his duties that evening, he had to make a speech that night. He needed to, at the very least, rehearse it once.

He pulled the paper out of his pocket and stood in front of the mirror practicing each word.

But he couldn't shake the image of you, the way your eyes glimmered in the faint light, the beauty of your smile and the way you just seemed to see him.

This was pointless, he'd just improvise. He shoved it back in his pocket and continued on his way.

He strolled into the main hall at the Ministry, it looked spectacular, the perfect gothic party. The chatter of voices quietened as he made his entrance, everyone did a little bow to their Papa.

He smiled at them all and then the party continued. Some siblings were already dancing together, others talking happily amongst themselves, laughter echoed off the vaulted ceiling. A place where Ghouls lurk in the beams watching the revellers below.

Nihil pressed on through the crowd making polite conversation where he could. But he didn't really hear a word anyone said to him. Could he open his bruised heart up again to someone? It's not like he'd even asked you on a date but he knew where this was going.

Nihil sighed and walked over to the opulent bar, no one stopped him going behind it, who would? He ran his fingers over the tops of the bottles and chewed his bottom lip. Finally, he clasped the top of a bottle of bourbon, pulled it out of the rack with a little flourish and the corners of his mouth tugged up into a smile. He plucked a short glass from above the bar and began his work.

When he was done, he added the final touch a twist of orange peel, the fragrance of it reminding him of his youth. Of days spent studying for Clergy exams in the orange grove at the Ministry, sat back-to-back with his friend.

He looked up from the glass to see you standing across the bar from him, head cocked to the side eyebrow slightly raised. "That looks good, what is it?"

"It's an old fashioned, but I put my own spin on it" His heart actually fluttered, what in the Dark Lord's name was wrong with him? No one has had this effect on him in years, not since Sister. He slide the glass across to you. "Try it, if you want?"

You took a sip considering for a moment. "It's good." then pushed the glass back across the bar. "But Papa what would you make for me?"

Nihil thought carefully his eyes scanning the drinks behind the bar. He was careful, took his time, before coming up with something completely new. "Try this" He past you a martini glass your fingers brushed against his.

Kiss the go goat started playing softly in his mind, that song becoming more and more entwined with you.

***

You tasted it and your eyes lit up, it's perfect. "How did you know?" You stammer, for the first time taken by surprise. You had always assumed Nihil to be some kind of shallow hedonist. Charismatic and charming but nothing more than that. Yet the way he smiled when you took another sip, it was so genuine, so happy.

"I just know." He said with a flirty wink. Okay, there was the man you expected.

"Thank you for the drink, Papa" You give a polite nod.

"Wait, would you like to dance with me?" Nihil stepped out from behind the bar and offered you his hand. That look again...

You pause but then accepted lacing your fingers with his.

His skin was soft and warm. He walked you towards the dance floor before releasing your hand and starting to move to the music. You already missed his touch. Nihil kept a respectful distance, but his dance moves, were just... the movement of his hips was almost hypnotic.

You found yourself drawn to him, like someone ready to fall from grace into sin and lust. You took a step towards him and he closed the space further. Your bodies separated by only a thin slice of air, it was harder to breath, was he teasing you?

"I need a break" You blurt out suddenly aware of the pain in your feet, the burn in your legs.

Nihil nods and leads you to the side of the dance floor where you both settle on a large sofa.

You found yourself settling into an easy conversation with him. It was surprising just how much you both had in common.

As he talked you started to really look at him, the strong defined jaw, the way his shoulder length hair swept over his handsome features. He was even better looking close up than he'd appeared on stage and those eyes, his dazzling blue eyes.

"Babe?" he asked waiting for you to reply.

"Sorry, what?" You shook your head, trying to clear it.

"Do you want to meet tomorrow?" He took your hand and gently rubbed his thumb over the back of it. His touch was light but sent a shiver down your spine.

"Sure, why not." You said with a slightly tipsy smile and then jumped up. "One more dance"

You pulled him to his feet and he stumbled slightly with a giggle.

This time you danced closer to him, you wrapped your arms around his neck.

He snaked his arms around you and pulled you close to him, this time your bodies were pressed together. You could hardly think straight, it was utterly intoxicating the feel of him against you. As you let you gaze drift higher you met his eyes, they were filled with such a look of desire, you gasped. You could smell the incense on him, it lingered on his hair from all those days spent in the chapel giving dark mess. Such a heady smell you lost yourself in him further.

You danced like this, utterly unaware of your surroundings. He pressed his lips to yours and you could taste the whiskey he'd been drinking, the smokiness of it. You deepen the kiss with a soft sigh as his hands drop to your waist. It's utterly addictive, you don't think you can stop yourself and then you realise... it's gone so quiet.

He broke away with one last soft kiss. He looked just as entranced, just gazing at you. Then he looked around to see the black candles on the tables being extinguished by Ghouls.

***

He walked you back to your room, you tried to hide it but the shoes you were wearing were too uncomfortable for your already sore feet. You winced and he looked at you with a raised eyebrow.

You were about to admit that you didn’t think you could walk another step, when he swept you up in his arms and carried you bridal style the rest of the way. You smiled to yourself, and let your head rest against his chest.

He carefully put you down outside your room. Your heart sank, you didn’t want him to go. You considered inviting him in, but your mind was foggy from the late night and alcohol.

He gave you a deep bow and kissed the back of your hand. "Until tomorrow"

With that he left you, stood there barely able to catch your breath, what the fuck had just happened. You had said to your friends you would never be so foolish as to get swept up by Nihil, but here you were utterly under his spell.

What you didn’t expect was for him to glance back over his shoulder as he walked off, he saw you still looking and that genuine smile returned to his lips. Perhaps Nihil was falling just as hard as you.

~

written by Nyx

Taglist: @charlie-is-a-menace @copias-fluffy-asscheeks @randodummy @tuttifuckinfruttifriday @calliedion-dungeon @randominstake @callmeicaro @nuntia @dio-niisio @mamacarlyle @firefirevampire @mybotanicaldemise @emo-mess @natoncesaid @ouijaboardemo

[ecargmura]

Oshi No Ko Episode 17 Review - Melt's Redemption

This is the power of anime adaptations if given in the right hands. Doga Kobo really took their time and effort to creating an episode that gives both Melt a redemption arc and their studio into the limelight for that spectacular episode. I was so hooked and even shed some tears to see Melt finally getting that redemption he needed. You can say that I melted into the moment too.

Melt’s whole moment is for him to get people to see that he isn’t all looks and that he can take acting seriously! Before he got into acting, Melt was a bit of a conceited guy who knew he was hot and popular, but meeting Aqua and performing in Sweet Today gave him that reality check. It’s not just a battle within himself, but a battle against Sakuya and Yoriko, the two people who underestimated him the most. What I liked is that ever since the Sweet Today arc, Melt has been realizing that acting is serious business and that just because he’s all looks won’t get him anywhere and he won’t survive in the industry. That’s why he worked so hard. Even if he’s not as experienced as the others, he can still have his moment to shine—to have something to engrave into people’s minds. He gains Sakuya and Yoriko’s respect fully and Aqua is proud of him, giving him a genuine smile that he rarely gives others!

What I like is that he’s taking things seriously by taking in his surroundings. He’s listening to Aqua’s advice. He’s listening to his acting instructor’s words on gaining stamina. He was listening to Akane wondering about other characters and this caused him to try and understand his stage play character. He can’t take in everything and expect an instant level up, but he’s doing what he can with his capabilities and it paid off positively. Look at him now compared to his performance in Sweet Today. His line delivery became so good. He’s no longer that cringy actor from the past. Props to his voice actor Seiji Maeda for going above and beyond for this performance too! I am expecting his voice actor to get an influx of roles going forth after putting on that brilliant performance.

It’s not only Melt too, but everyone in this episode showed off their acting from what was shown in the episode and from the voice acting too! Koki Uchiyama shows off that he doesn’t always voice stoic emo boys and can do hot blooded perfectly well. Megumi Han shows off how versatile she is as a voice actress and it applies to Kana too! Yusuke Kobayashi also shows off how different he can sound when Sakuya is acting and his normal self. I feel like this episode was just a harmonious combination of well-animated scenes and well-voiced characters. This is why animation studios and voice actors are so important to elevate a manga adaptation. They’re the ones promoting this story hence why the audience has to be hooked and if things go well, those who basked in that spotlight will get lauded!

I wasn’t the only one who was crying. Mengo, who does the manga art for Oshi no Ko, revealed that they were crying as well! It was clearly a moving episode and it makes me wonder what will Doga Kobo animate for their future works. Were you moved by this episode as I was?

[djarindroid]

Stuck

Pairing: Cassian x Reader

Summary: Cassian keeps meeting you in the small elevator on base but what happens when it breaks down leaving the two of you stuck inside.

Warnings: Reader has a panic attack but I don't go into much detail.

Word Count: 2,578

Comments: I just wanted to write some pure fluff for Cassian 💕 I may have a rough idea for a part 2 for this in the works.

Day One- Cassian sat in the medical bay with a Doctor stood in front of him rambling on, he had stopped listening the moment he’d been told he’d need to be grounded for at least a month to rest. He thought back to the foolish mistake that had got him here, he was running from imperials and skidded too quickly round a corner, he crashed down some stairs, landing on his wrist and managed to sprain it.

The Doctor gave him some painkillers and dismissed him. Cassian sluggishly wandered to the elevator, wanting to do nothing more than take a hot shower and sleep this awful day away. The doors creaked open in front of him and he stepped in, quickly pressing the button to his floor. He repeatedly pushed the ‘close doors’ button mumbling ‘come on, come on, come on’ under his breath.

He leant against the back panel and watched as the doors finally began to close. An inch away from finally getting what he wanted he watched as a hand hurriedly slid into the gap to push the doors open again. He sighed in annoyance at whoever it was that was prolonging his journey to comfort. Although when the doors reopened he was taken aback, his eyes widened slightly at the person gliding in in front of him. He watched as you gently pressed your button.

He found himself staring at you, he’d surely remember seeing someone like you on base. He’d never seen anyone as beautiful as you before. He was completely mesmerised. You glanced over at him and he had to snap out of it, suddenly finding a mark on the floor extremely interesting.

A gentle blush blossomed across your cheeks as you realised he’d been looking at you. Your role in the rebellion wasn’t very glamorous and didn’t cause you to cross paths with many people, you were mostly just stuck in the record archive day in and day out.

Cassian thought he’d risk taking another glance at you and luckily for him you’d redirected your view back to the doors. He observed the rosy tint to your cheeks and a faint smile grew on his face. He let his eyes subtly roam down your body, taking you all in, but all too soon the doors dinged open and you were stepping out of view.

Day Two- Cassian only saw you briefly the following day, as he exited the lift you were standing there waiting for it. You smiled as you passed him and he couldn’t help but return the smile.

He didn’t understand how he’d never seen you before, surely he’d remember someone like you. Living life constantly jumping from one mission to another didn’t really leave him much time to actually spend at the base, he hoped he’d get more chances to see you before he was allowed to fly out again.

Day Four- It was a couple more days before Cassian crossed your path again. He was back in the elevator, planning to head to the mess hall for something to eat. As the doors began closing he heard a voice call ‘hold the door!’ He pushed the door back and watched as someone stumbled inside, their arms holding a stack of documents which were blocking their face. As they crossed the entrance they tripped, Cassian watched as mountains of paperwork filled the small space. The sound of an exasperated sigh pulled his attention back to the person who had just made that spectacular entrance and he was pleasantly surprised to see you again.

As the doors closed you dropped to your knees to begin gathering everything you’d dropped. Cassian was frozen staring at you for a moment, just happy to be seeing you again. He quickly snapped himself out of it and sank down to help you.

‘Oh you don’t need to do that,’ you insisted. Your voice was quiet but he thought it sounded as sweet as honey. Your cheeks were burning furiously, embarrassed by the impression you were making.

‘I know,’ he replied as he continued gathering paper ‘I want to.’

You silently accepted the help and continued gathering stuff in your arms, your cheeks still flushed red from embarrassment. A comfortable silence fell over you both as you worked together.

Cassian reached out for the final folder not noticing you were already reaching for it too. Your hands bumped into each other and Cassian instantly felt a warmth brew in his chest at the fleeting touch of your skin. ‘Don’t worry, I’ve got this one’ you say as you let out a small giggle which sounded like music to Cassian’s ears.

You both stood up again and Cassian passed you back the paper he’d gathered for you.

‘Thank you’ you say, as the door dings on your floor.

‘Not a problem,’ he starts as you walk out. ‘Just try not to trip again, I might not be there to help next time.’

You turn to smile at him as the doors close between you and Cassian thinks it might just be the most beautiful smile he’d ever seen.

Day Five- It wasn’t long until your paths crossed again, he entered the elevator after a long, uneventful day spent in meetings, going over translated imperial messages which eventually lead to nothing. He was happy to see you already stood in the small compartment, a small smile gracing your lips.

‘Don’t worry, I’m not gonna throw stuff everywhere today,’ you jested as you slightly waved your empty hands.

The door closed behind Cassian as he let out a laugh. ‘Bet you had fun putting all that back in order,’ he joked.

‘Oh you don’t even wanna know how long it took,’ you smiled looking up at him.

He smiled back as he took in your features. Being able to look at you directly finally without anything in the way, he could really take in your beauty. He couldn’t help but stare as your smile lit up your whole face. You were glowing and Cassian found himself wanting to get to know you better.

‘Cassian,’ he suddenly blurted out, he mentally kicked himself at the way he said it, ‘that’s my name by the way.’ He quickly added. He didn’t understand why he was so nervous, he was a rebel spy and here he was completely messing up a simple introduction.

Your smile didn’t falter as you told him your name ‘nice to officially meet you Cassian.’ He loved the way his name sounded falling from between your lips. He could listen to you talk for hours.

‘Likewise,’ he replied. The sound of the doors dinging cutting your time short again.

‘This is me,’ you gestured as you headed towards the door, ‘until next time.’

‘Looking forward to it,’ Cassian replied as the doors once again closed between you.

Cassian couldn’t wipe the smile off his face if he tried. Maybe being grounded wasn’t so bad.

Day Ten- Cassian hadn’t seen you in a while and had started to worry that you’d begun taking a different route. He’d taken to scanning every room he walked into, hoping his eyes would land on you but they never did.

It was late when Cassian decided to head back to his quarters. He noticed the way his heartbeat picked up as he stood waiting for the elevator doors to open, he couldn’t help but let his hopes get up at the thought of seeing you again.

The doors opened and his heart sank, it was empty. Maybe he’d just got lucky in your first few meetings, it was just a complete coincidence that he’d bumped into you so frequently in the same small space. He stood to the back of the lift as it rattled, creeping upwards, stopping on the next floor up.

‘Hey,’ his head shot up at the sound of your voice. Ok maybe his luck hadn’t run out yet.

‘Hello stranger,’ Cassian smiled at you as you pressed your floors button and turned to face him.

The elevator made a strange groaning sound as it moved but you both ignored it. Too caught up in the fact you’d bumped into each other again. You’d barely spoken to each other but neither of you could deny the feeling you felt when you saw the other.

Just as Cassian opened his mouth to speak again the lift jolted to a sharp stop, throwing you towards him. The lights flickered as your hands landed on Cassian’s chest, his one good hand flying to your waist to steady you. Given the circumstances he shouldn’t have been happy to have you standing in his space, but it’d been too long since he’d been close to someone and the brief moment you were in his embrace was a moment of solace for him.

‘Sorry,’ you murmured as you stepped back swiftly, adjusting yourself. The lights were still flickering and Cassian watched you shift anxiously. He leant past you and tried a few of the buttons on the panel, but nothing happened. ‘Are we stuck?’ you questioned as you peered up at him.

‘I’m sure it’ll be fine, we can just press the call button’, he pressed the emergency button but nothing happened. ‘Shit,’ Cassian muttured, he pressed the button a few more times but suddenly the lights in the small space shut off completely. You yelped and grabbed Cassian’s arm. ‘Hey, hey don’t worry I’m here,’ Cassian placed his hand over yours. Shit, this isn’t how he wanted seeing you again to go.

A small emergency light came to life over the door, shrouding the room in a low green light. Your grip loosened on Cassian’s arm but you didn’t let go completely. He looked down to you and he hated to see the fear in your eyes. He pressed the button a couple more times, but nothing came of it. Cassian began to panic slightly but he tried not to show it for your sake.

‘What are we gonna do?’ you whispered, ‘What if we’re stuck in here? What if no-one comes? It’s late Cassian no-ones gonna be around’ you began rambling.

Cassian gently said your name, drawing your attention to him. ‘Someone is gonna find us ok?’ He laced your fingers together. ‘We’re not the only people that use this lift, someone will come and see it’s not working, and they’ll get us out.’ His words didn’t seem to be soothing you in any way.

‘Hey come here,’ he pulled your hand lightly as he took a seat on the floor. You sank down next to him, he refused to let go of your hand and tried rubbing his thumb back and forth in an attempt to help calm you.

He didn’t know what to do, he could hear your breathing had picked up as you sat next to him. Your knee was shaking, jostling his own leg as you began to shake. This wasn’t a situation he saw you two being in when you re-entered his life today. He racked his brain trying to think of a way to help you, when the colour of the lights gave him an idea.

He turned his face to look down to you, ‘a few months ago I ended up on this tiny planet in the outer rim,’ he started, ‘I don’t even think it had a name, I was just hiding out there for a few days,’ your breathing hadn’t changed and if anything you just looked confused now, but he pressed on. ‘I lay there one night staring out of the window of my ship and suddenly the whole place was lit up with this bright green light, all different shades were bouncing around me. I rushed outside and I’d never seen anything like it, it was like the sky was alive.’ He noticed your body becoming less tense and the vice-like hold you had on his hand loosened slightly. ‘All these different greens dancing across every inch of the sky…it was stunning.’

He watched as your body began to relax slowly, your breathing gradually becoming more steady. ‘It…’ you took a deep breath in and started again ‘it sounds beautiful’.

‘I can take you, if you want,’ he looked between your eyes, hoping he wasn’t taking too big of a jump. You barely know each other and here he is inviting you away from the base, to a planet he didn’t know the name of.

You couldn’t hold back the smile that burst onto your face, Cassian let out a small sigh of relief as you replied ‘I’d like that.’

During the short silence that followed Cassian noticed your eyes flitting around the room again, panic setting in once more about your current situation, before he could act though you whispered ‘Can you tell me more?’ you turned back to him ‘more stories about what you get to see.’

So Cassian did just that, he spoke about anything he could think of, from a juicy purple fruit he once tried, to the giant loth cat he once found stowed away on his ship. As the stories went on you became more and more relaxed, eventually resting your head onto his shoulder. After a while your grip on his hand loosened completely and it took him a moment to notice you’d fallen asleep. Cassian felt his face flush, knowing how at ease he’d managed to make you feel.

He laid his head back, closing his eyes and letting out a soft sigh. He couldn’t quite explain the warmth that radiated through him, but he felt content for the first time in years. He stayed awake until morning, cherishing the small respite with you.

After a few hours he heard someone on the other side of the doors trying to pry them open.

‘Hey,’ he cooed your name gently so as to not startle you. You rose sheepishly, slightly flustered that you’d fallen asleep. ‘Looks like we’re getting out of here.’ Cassian rose to his feet, his hand still entwined with your own. He helped you to stand as the doors sprung open. Daylight washed over you both and Cassian gestured for you to exit first. You led him out, still hand in hand, and you both thanked the man who had freed you as you passed.

You both stood for a moment, enjoying the moment of freedom. He knew he shouldn’t think it was enjoyable being trapped in such a small space for so long because of how it made you feel, but he knew he’d only remember the way you made him feel.

‘I’m this way,’ you pointed behind you down the corridor and Cassian couldn’t help feeling deflated, realising he’d need to let you go as he was in the other direction.

‘I’ll see you tomorrow?’ he asked, hopeful that you would say yes.

‘Yeah, I’d like that,’ you said, beaming up at him. You leant in to him, ‘thank you, for keeping me sane in there.’ You tiptoed so you could place a gentle kiss to his cheek, Cassian was sure you would be able to feel the sudden heat radiating from his skin. He watched as you swayed away down the corridor, his hand lightly coming up to touch where you had kissed him. He stood there until you were well out of sight.

Cassian never thought he’d say it but not being able to go out on missions may be the best thing that’s happened to him.

Part two

[wangxianficrecs]

❤️ Across the street to another life by danegen

❤️ Across the street to another life

by danegen

M, 99k, Wangxian

Summary: Wangji stays on the piano bench as they’re closing up. Wei Ying chews his lip, knowing what he’s going to do but horrified at himself. But what’s the alternative: kick the guy out and find him sleeping beside the dumpster in the morning? And that’s if the cops don’t take him in for vagrancy. “Wangji?” Wangji looks up. Please don’t be a serial killer. “So, we’re closing up for the night, but A-Yuan and I live upstairs. Do you want to join us for dinner?” Wangji blinks. His head bobs in what’s probably a yes. “Great!” Fuck. Or a ragged monosyllabic man wearing a collar shows up at Wei Ying's music store. Wei Ying and A-Yuan ask, is anyone going to adopt this guy? And then they don't wait for an answer.

Kay's comments: This story really had me hooked and I could hardly wait for each new chapter. It's a modern AU set in America based on the movie Unleashed. I didn't know the movie and thankfully, that didn't matter, because no knowledge is needed! Wen Ruohan is a crime boss here and Lan Wangji is his top-fighter that he keeps in a cage and collared and uses to commit violence on his enemies and to win illegal fights (he gave me Winter Soldier vibes!). One day, Lan Wangji manages to escape and he gets taken in by Wei Wuxian and his son A-Yua. Cue lots of hurt/comfort, some drama, family feels, tragic pasts, Wangxian getting together and having to deal with Wen Ruohan. Lots of angst and a well-deserved happy ending. Despite the author warning that Lan Wangji is way out of character here, it didn't really feel that way for me. Like, it totally made sense given his circumstances. I really loved the character dynamics in this story. The Jiang parents are divorced for example and now Yu Ziyuan is trying to be a less shitty parent and mostly doing it by bribing her grandchildren with gifts and one of my favourite parts, though he doesn't play that much of a role, is what the author made of Wen Zhuliu, because I'm really weak for him! I also really loved the slow thawing of Lan Wangji and him growing into his new life and finding a place for himself. Mojo's comments: Fucking spectacular, and I'm in a car and not able to make a good bookmark, but DAMN, y'all. Lwj has been kept in a cage and made to fight all his life, and finally slips his chain and sinks into domestic bliss with wwx and a-yuan: learns to read and use a fork and it's beautiful. But of course, his past doesn't want to let him go.

Excerpt: “Was that woman your mother?” Wei Ying’s smile falls. His mouth opens in a pretty O. “Oh, you mean Yu Ziyuan? The one who picked A-Yuan up?” Wangji nods. “No. Well, not really. My mother died when I was about A-Yuan’s age. My father, too. Yu Ziyuan and her husband—well, ex-husband now—raised me after that. More or less.” Wangji nods like he understands and stares down at the counter. He doesn’t know what to call a woman who is sort of a mother but not really. “Where are your parents?” Wei Ying asks. His voice is soft, like he isn’t sure he wants Wangji to hear. “Dead.” He doesn’t remember his parents, but when Wangji was younger, Wen Ruohan told him that he had taken Wangji in after they died. “Oh. I’m sorry.” Wangji doesn’t understand why Wei Ying would apologize. He’s afraid to ask why. “A-Yuan’s mother died, too,” Wei Ying says. When Wangji peeks up at him, Wei Ying has gone back to staring at the computer screen. He isn’t smiling. “She died when he was a baby.” It hadn’t occurred to Wangji that Wei Yuan must have a mother. He knows about mothers, but he’s never actually met one. He doesn’t know what to say, so he says what Wei Ying said: “I’m sorry.”

modern setting, modern no powers, pov alternating, family feels, set in america, based on unleashed (2005), past wei wuxian/others, wei wuxian is lan sizhui's parent, wei yuan, single parent wei wuxian, addition, implied/referenced drug addition, amnesia, ableist language, musicians, angst with a happy ending, found family, @danegen

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(Please REBLOG as a signal boost for this hard-working author if you like – or think others might like – this story.)

[bearmemesreviews]

FotW: SDMI - In Fear of the Phantom

Welcome back to Scooby-Doo Mystery Incorporated, and now we're getting into a problem many reboots and adaptions face - what happens when you try something different. Today's episode isn't really that special, serving as a bridging point between the next stint of episodes focused on the gang's love lives.

Except for featuring the Hex Girls of course.

Not to overshadow the main villain, which would be extra funny considering their backstory, but come on that's what y'all are here for.

Yeah, they got a bit of a redesign since their last few appearances in the two billion direct to DVD films. Fans DID NOT like this, and in a later episode they had to actually address the backlash while also scrapping these outfits for the original ones. They also steal Luna and Dusk's hair dye and gave Thorn's highlights a diminished role.

My personal opinion? Eh, I would've preferred a middle ground between the two, but for reboots I encourage designers to go all out since it's their own thing. So for Mystery Incorporated I would've either kept the redesigns or gave them completely brand new looks a second time. The OGs have a more cohesive aesthetic, but I like how MI experiments by giving each girl their own Alt style. It's probably Dusk who could probably use a new outfit though, since her Tank Girl getup doesn't mesh as well as Thorn's "Pagan School Girl" and Luna's "Lesbian Thespian" outfits do. Actually, maybe one of those Scene Kid reconstructions of School Uniforms would've worked better?

Oh yeah, this nerd.

Backstory: Like most lesbians Velma is a massive fan of The Hex Girls, snagging front row tickets for the Scooby Gang just in time for them to witness a "Phantom" try to murder Thorn on stage. As with every mystery the gang decide to take it upon themselves to do the cop's job to keep the concert going while protecting the band.

This leads to an exploration of the show's two main ships, Fredphe and Shoob - again, yes really.

This show is really good trust me on this.

Scooby outright calls Shaggy a cheater for going to prom with Velma instead of hanging out with him like they always do, and replaces Mathew Lillard with a wooden dummy much to Shaggy's chagrin.

Fred meanwhile comes out as nonbinary a teenage boy with emotions as he finally grasps Daphne's romantic interest in him. All thanks to an entire song written by Daphne where she uses Fred's special interest to get through to him.

Behold, one of the best songs made for a television show in history.

Before this spectacular moment of audio interposed with occasional Zelda CDI-level animation (to be fair are you even looking at the animation in the first place) we got some Phantom shenanigans. Mostly him responding to Scoob and Shag's ability to warp time and space by just setting them on fire, probably the most effective thing one these guys have attempted so far.

Design: Obviously a homage to The Phantom of the Opera, and as we go through the series, you'll start to notice a lot more homages that Wikipedia will kindly point out for you. Though you can also see a bit of Comic Supervillain in his design, so much so that he doesn't seem to fit with the show's own aesthetic. He wears a black full body suit with a gigantic, taller than his own head, Dracula collar and grim reaper-esque hood. He has a fabricated piece of his outfit that goes over his shoulders like Football Pads, but with a sleeker design as it attaches his cape to the main costume. His cape is black but its interior is lined with a sparkling holographic material.

His mask, belt, boots, and glovers are all made of golden mechanical pieces, as they actually allow him to charge up bolts of electricity to fire at the teens in our show. This tech is never explained, and he really only uses it a few times before forgetting he has these weapons at his disposal.

His mask is the best part of the outfit, legitimately cool while evoking a gas mask. It's almost like it was made out of several pieces asymmetrically stuck to each other with large bolts, like if C3PO was mangled in an accident and put back together with recolored bits of R2-D2. There are several short, cylindrical ports on his gauntlets, boots, belt, and mask that occasionally glow green.

Reveal: Shaggy, with an extensive knowledge of obscure musical groups as we'll be shown time and time again, recognized the shiny material of The Phantom's cape as belonging to a One-Hit Wonder named Fantzee Pantz. And once that's discovered it's pretty obvious that the other suspect, The Hex Girl's manager, is not the culprit as he was just as responsible for Fantzee's obscurity as THG.

No, the true culprit is the girl's songwriter, who first attempted to sabotage them through badly written songs but was thwarted by the girl's talent and popularity - So he then turned to just trying to kill them, and Daphne. He ends up taking Scoob's dummy to jail with him, but the original duo patch things up by then - letting us look back at Velma who got sidelined so badly this episode.

2/5 Goofy as hell design for a goofy character, probably the most "Villain of The Week" we've encountered so far. In fact, he'd probably fit in better in Miraculous Ladybug than this show. Not that bad otherwise, just not as impressive.