#he’s drawn more and more adorable as the series progresses

[strawberri-draws]

Sometimes. Sometimes you just need to reread all of Scoob and Shag on webtoon to feel something again

[envy-of-the-apple]

the jjk naga au is getting to me……..i fear im terminally ill with thoughts about it (seriously, top of the food chain is such a yummy series (?) and im soso obsessed with how you've written gojo’s and geto’s characters, i reread your works everyday, i just can't get enough! ^^)

and i hope you don't mind if i share a Thought i've had :3 (i was going for an mc who used to draw/sketch/make art just for this specific scenario)

Imagine that your time on the island's barely dragging on. There's only so many berries to pick and so many times you can braid Suguru’s hair into elaborate styles. You're bored, stranded on an island with these two naga captors and their (adorable) hatchlings.

Well, there's always playing with the hatchlings, or tussling with Satoru (he calls it playtime but you're far from amused when you get a faceful of sand when he tugs your legs out from under you) but you miss your alone time. That little bubble of yours. Ah, privacy. 

Like that'd happen, but you can dream.

It's a stroke of chance when Nobara comes to you with her new haul of human paraphernalia, all too excitedly. A leather satchel. Some printed photos of nameless faces with scenic backgrounds. A waterlogged cell phone, practically unsalvageable. A journal with pages so thoroughly soaked, it falls apart in wet clumps.

“What are these?” You can hear her rummage through the bag, her nose wrinkling slightly. “Smells weird.” And so you look over to see her glaring down at a (relatively new) set of oil paints, sealed away in the bag. It's likely that she picked up on the scent of the strange chemicals.

Your eyes are bright with hope as you gently pull it out of her hold. Ready to answer her million and one questions.

…

After all this time that you've thought of what you'd wished to be able to do, you're at a loss. You've got a wall to the cave to yourself, a set of oil paints and a makeshift brush from the wood of this one particular tree off the side of the island. The only thing you're missing right now is inspiration.

A muse.

Satoru and Suguru are snoozing. Peaceful and laid in each other's arms. you can appreciate the quiet to yourself.

You hear familiar shrieks and playful yells of the hatchlings' name. 

The slight bit of quiet, then.

Nobara and Yuji are wrestling in the water, arguing over something in a mix of clicks and curse words. The sight is an endearing one, but moving too quick.

So you do some searching inward.

And you paint what comes to mind. What you've felt this whole time.

…

“What's that?” Ever the curious one, Nobara rests her head on your shoulder to peer over at your artwork in progress. She doesn't understand any of it—and she wouldn't. Your human upbringing is leagues different from hers.

“... Home.” You murmur, and Nobara’s glancing up at you in wonder because of the way your eyes glisten, the way your hand lingers over to paint in a fine detail.

“Well, it was my home.” You smile back at her, and she's at ease. You're not sad—no, she'd make it everybody's problem if you were—and then she makes sure to know everything about the scene you've drawn.

“What's that?” She gestures. Careful not to smudge the paint off, index outstretched to a figure she doesn't recognise.

“That's a lamp. When it gets dark, we switch it on so there's light. Like the torches in the cave, you see?”

“Torch? Hmm… and that?”

It seems that talking about your old home brings a warmth to your voice. Nobara beams up at you all giddy as you explain, eager to learn more. Eventually Yuji slinks over to listen as well, more so to the sound of your voice than what you're saying.

You sound happy, the pair can tell. Like when you taste a berry sweeter than the others, or when you tell them stories of your own to lull them to sleep. They like the chime of joy in your voice, and neither stops you from rambling about your once-home. 

It's a moment of peace. and warmth.

Yet it shatters for you when you feel a strong muscled tail coil around your waist, that familiar sense of having your space invaded taking over. A very intrigued Satoru looms over you, eyes glinting as he takes in the sight. You know that something's off—he seems more punishing with how tight he holds you.

“Home, huh?” Satoru repeats, and even the hatchlings can tell that's their cue to leave. Nobara offers you a lingering glance, almost pouty before she slithers away, following after her brother.

…

The next early morning, you find your home gone. 

In a sense, it's a bitter joke to be played on you. Not only were you never going to be back at your own place, even the expression of the idea was taken away from you. Just like your freedom was. your choice. The wall of the cave was bare, not a hint of the paint or the sentiment lingering behind. As if someone hit a total reset. Paints nowhere to be found, your canvas scrubbed clean.

Suguru stretches out from behind you, one of the first few to wake up, wrapping you in a lazy hug, before he follows your gaze. You'd call the soft laugh that rumbles in his chest cruel. Mocking your homesickness in that loving way only he could manage.

“Must've rained last night.” He comments at the absence of your artwork, and you wish you could pinpoint at least an inch or sarcasm in his words. You nod quietly, and he draws you in closer.

Cold lips brush against your temple. 

“The only home you need is with us.”

The sand under your feet is drier than your throat.

(oh my god im sorry if i rambled too much, i hope its not annoying ^^;;)

jaw dropping. amazing. wHAT????

I love how anon made Nobara's characterization so much sweeter and innocent. Though it's probably cuz she's younger in this fic...considering she can still stay on land. And satosugu not even wanting you to THINK of your old home is so accurate. I feel the more they learn your language, the more eager they'll be to display ownership.

Anyway thx anon for making the fourth part! from now on if anyone wants an addition to the naga series turn to the anons not me.

[goofy-clan]

Heyo! Narrator peep and creator of goofy clan! I wanted to share this fanart I made as a gift to the clan series that inspired this entire series! Enjoy!!

And now it’s time to pair cat with creator! Click more to see notes I left for the creators too!

————————————————

Goldsight belongs to @gray-thistleclan , I loved the way the cats were drawn in this series, and especially how the story progressed! Gold was always my favroite -w-! Even though she has the crazy disease now ;-;.

Eukltna belongs to @loudclan-clangen ! I loved the silly cats in this series, the artstyle actually helped me draw mouths easier! I love our doomed religious kitty, even if she was a bit odd. That crude oil does get everywhere huh…

Longstrike belongs to @juniper-clan ! The fact that the entire series was set in olden times is really neat! I also love the theme of seashells/ cowrie shells being bad, those are spooky! Long was my favroite, I was sad to see him go. So he’s drawn in the cozy sunshine!

Tigertoe Belongs to @circus-clangen ! Circus clan was actually a big inspiration for the puzzles/cipher aspects of my blog! I was always a sucker for finding stuff out, plus clowns are cool! I love tiger with all my heart, she was so fun to draw! Best entertainer :)!

Ravenstar belongs to @fallenclan ! Oh boy where do I start. I think it’s super impressive how far the series is now, even if I picked up halfway through! I love how the cats look, fun fur colors! Raven is such a good villain, evil stinky cat. So here he is with a totally real (and not painted) star!

Kestrelstar belongs to @echoes-in-echoclan ! I love this series, even though I don’t get what’s going on sometimes, it’s still a wonderful read! I also loved the connected universe with circus clan, what a twist! Kestrel is my favorite, he’s such a cool old dude!

Sweetkit belongs to @mourningsbane ! It isn’t every day I see a eldritch horror/spooky clangen series! As an avid horror fan, I love how body horror is drawn and shown in this series! Honey is the best cat :)! But, I drew sweet today! They’re a good protagonist, because who better to explore the spooky uknown than kittens?

NettleIris belongs to @moons-of-dewclan ! I adored the art style of this series, and the fact all the backgrounds are drawn so beautifully! Even though this series tugs at my heart strings, it’s lovely! Makes me wanna go wander in the woods! Nettle is my favorite lil’ peep, best medicine cat. Plus, puffy cats are fun to draw!

ConiferSun belongs to @castaway-clan ! I love the trope of “rebuild and build anew” in clangen runs! Seeing the clan in this series slowly grow in size and for the leader to not be alone anymore was very comforting. Conifer is my favorite simply because they’re blue and just a wonderful cat in the series! They also get to look at the lady bug :)!

And that’s all! Y’all are cool Peeps, keep on rocking!

[eyenaku]

MICHAEL AFTON MASK

Handbuilt porcelain, pit fired. Acrylic paint, bailing wire, and fabric accents added post-fire.

This mask is a part of a (loosely connected) mask series, all hand-built and fired using a range of different temperatures and techniques.

Eggs Benedict himself! Based on my own design for Michael post-scoop, which I haven't drawn nearly as much as I should.

I'm very pleased with how gross it looks, I think my blending of colours to make a more varied and sinew-y-er looking purple paid off well (particularly the hints of green). The variations between glossy and matte in areas worked well too, I think, and I'm really happy with how the wire turned out!

WIP stuff under the cut!

Anyone who has worked in ceramics knows the hardest colour to achieve is purple. I'd attempted it with underglazes, hoping to get a good purple without paints.

But the pit firing didn't get it hot enough for the glaze (though it was cool, and I found it fitting to have him be in a fire. ehe)

This was straight out of the pit firing. Very ashy! Needed a bath!

The water was very gross, and very stinky, and his submerged mug scared several people half to death (I think he's cute, though)

Post fire progress stuff!

The inside of this masks looks GNARLY and I ADORE IT!! It looks like Ennard is still inside, hehehe... But that means it's not the most comfortable (or safe) to wear, so he'll be on my wall for the foreseeable future. I still put it on though, much to the dismay of everyone I know.

[wing-ed-thing]

Childhood Friends to Lovers Relationship Headcanons

Tags/Warnings: No Reader Pronouns Not into romance? Here's some platonic childhood friends with Iruka hcs!

𓆃 It's a very natural progression, especially if you're in the same age group as Iruka and remain moderately involved with the village growing up.

𓆃 Iruka is friendly enough to be able to bond with just about anyone, and given you're in similar circumstances after the Nine-Tails attack on the village, you're bound to be drawn to one another.

𓆃 Especially if you're left with few loved ones, being around others who share your circumstances makes your situation feel less lonely. At least, that was the idea when the Third Hokage implemented the youth programs for those who lost family stability.

𓆃 It was an awkward series of after-academy and weekend activities thrown together by a bunch of volunteer shinobi who didn't know much about kids, but you and Iruka wouldn't know better until you were older.

𓆃 These programs were also open to children whose parents were now working around the clock to assist the village, so even if your circumstances didn't resemble Iruka's, you could naturally find yourself in similar spaces.

𓆃 You probably couldn't even recall the exact moment you and Iruka became friends at all. You just always remembered him there and could hardly think of a time where Iruka wasn't in your life.

𓆃 (Iruka remembers. He's told you once before. Something about helping him out when he was new to the program and grieving, but you don't actually remember any of that.)

𓆃 He's always the first person you invite to your group outings with friends and he always makes time for you. He actually always makes time for anything you invite him to, whether you explicitly ask him or hint that you'd like him there.

𓆃 For a lifetime, he's been at every graduation, performance, and new life event you could ever ask someone to be at.

𓆃 Iruka was also always at your place, and if he wasn't at yours, you were at his.

𓆃 Any family you have surely already considers him one of them, your more sentimental— or otherwise slightly ditsy— family forgetting that Iruka isn't another blood family member.

𓆃 As you get older, your friends or extended family will constantly assume that Iruka's your partner. From your teenage years on, everyone will assume that you're a couple whether you are or not.

𓆃 And, well, you practically are a couple. You see each other every chance you get; you talk to each other every chance you get; you work in complete and utter tandem, that even people who don't know you very well assume that you're a couple.

𓆃 With his proximity to the people closest to you, it's an appropriate assumption and when you do finally get together, no one's surprised.

𓆃 Hell, even if you decide that marriage is for you, no one would be surprised about that either.

𓆃 "I thought you were already married," practically every shinobi in the village will most certainly say upon your announcement.

𓆃 Children will be a large part of your life whether they're yours or not, strictly because of Iruka's status as a teacher. His students mean the world to them, and by extension, it's probably for the best if you get as least a little involved.

𓆃 Your dynamic will work best if you show a level of dedication on par with his, whether you're another teacher, a sensei, or even simply drop by with treats every so often.

𓆃 The students think that ANBU warriors are fascinating and giving demonstrations of your superior kunai skills never fail to impress.

𓆃 "You'll only be able to do that if you do all your homework on time!"

𓆃 Your relationship is village-centric. Perhaps you won't be setting off on any crazy joint-mission anytime soon, but you will have a close, natural relationship and a village full of people who absolutely adore you.

Thank you to all who liked, reblogged, followed, and supported. Your support means so much and is greatly appreciated.

Not into romance? Here's some platonic childhood friends with Iruka hcs!

[peri-peri-sauce]

MASTERLIST

In this post you will find my masterlist of Käärijä x Reader fics. You can also go to my AO3 profile and check them out there :)

Beware! NSFW

These fics are NSFW, so please, reader discretion is advised.

Female Reader:

Bad Boys Need To Be Punished

The meeting with your friends had taken an unexpected turn when Jere couldn’t keep his hands off you, making you completely distracted. That’s why, upon arriving home, you decide to teach him a lesson. After all, bad boys who can’t keep their hands to themselves deserve to be punished.

Dress Me And Praise Me

Boredom begins to invade Jere while waiting for you to arrive home. However, he finds something intriguing in your room that leads to some intense self-exploration. But when you return with your own surprise, things get even hotter as Jere discovers new things about himself.

Two Can Play This Game

Knowing how competitive Jere is, you already know that teasing him while he’s playing video games is not a good idea. This becomes even riskier when you know there’s a bet involved. Like they say, actions have consequences, and soon, the little game you start turns into a heated competition to see who could rile the other up more.

Santa's Naughty List

Unexpectedly, a young man claiming to be Santa Claus enters your home, initially causing you to believe you’re being robbed. However, in a surprising twist, it turns out that he truly is who he claims to be, and apparently, he has a surprise for you this Christmas.

Wrap Me Up Like A Christmas Present

Jere surprises you by wrapping himself as a present beneath the Christmas tree. As the evening progresses with a gift exchange and a delightful dinner shared with family and friends later in the night, Jere remains oblivious to your mischievous intentions.

Drench Me With Your Love

A party on the outskirts of the city turns into an unexpected reunion with an old friend you haven’t seen in ages. As the day unfolds, a playful chase leads to a more intimate moment. Will you find the courage to express your feelings for him after all these years of harboring a crush? And will he reciprocate those feelings?

Hurt Me Until I'm Screaming For More

“If you score a goal, I promise to whip you when we get home.” Motivated by your promise, Jere redeems himself in a hockey game with six goals after a disappointing performance, basking in the satisfaction of fulfilling part of your promise. Now, it’s your turn.

Red Rose Dinner

After being stood up by your Tinder date, you find yourself approached by a shy and charming man at the restaurant. As you share an unexpected dinner together, you become increasingly drawn to this adorable boy as the night unfolds.

There's An Alien In My House

What happens when, during a stormy night, you encounter an unknown creature in your kitchen? You are unsure of its origin or intentions, yet it appears to be drawn to you, or rather, to your scent. Despite the uncertainty, for some inexplicable reason, you decide to allow it to stay. What will happen next in your life now that there’s an alien in your house?

Gender Neutral Reader:

It's All About You

Jere arrives home tired from work, exhausted from his busy schedule, so you help him relax.

My King, My God

You made a promise to Jere but couldn’t fulfill it, so to earn his forgiveness, you’ll need to stroke his ego.

Tastes Like Heaven

What began as an innocent act of feeding Jere quickly escalates into a surprisingly intense moment between the two of you.

Series:

Short, plotless, spicy fics

This is a series of short, plotless, spicy fics that I wrote some time ago and never posted. If not all, most of them are inspired by specific pictures or videos that Käärijä has posted, which I will add at the start of each fic.

Fic Requests

This is a series of fics that people have request from me.

Other:

KHaarija's OnlyFans

Short Solo Jere, Jere x Reader and Jere x Häärijä x Reader writings, inspired by some of KHaarija’s OnlyFans posts.

If you enjoy my fics, feel free to leave kudos or a comment!

If you would like to support me further, you can also buy me some coffee. Your help will go towards funding the therapy I need after everything Jere Pöyhönen puts me through :')

Thank you so much!

[smilingperformer]

Me: "Yaaaay it's Horizons anniversary soon!!"

Others: "It's been a year since Satoshi's journey ended"

I... I didn't even think about that |D

Guess I was that ready to just let him leave the story.

Considering that none of the original series staff stayed in the writing team, they were too.

Since it's soon been a year and we're reaching the end of act 2, I can confidently say this is like, my favourite Pokémon series. Alongside Sun & Moon. And both are favs for wholely different reasons, as in, love Sun & Moon for tackling mature topics and for having wonderful humor, alongside good world building and nice focus on family theme. While Horizons I love the story focus shift from normal, cast that is super enjoyable and a take on a found family type of group, new original villains that I've come to like a lot, etc etc.

I love how different both shows are. I love how both dare to try new things out in different way. Liko is one of THE most relatable characters to me, and I love the whole entire cast to bits. I even adore the Explorers, esp. Sango is slowly making a hole in my heart that wants me to call myself a fan of hers. Yes. She's been that enjoyable to me. Even Amethio's grown on me immensely, I like how his character works, and excited to see his role this upcoming ep.

At the start Roy felt a tad bit too alike to Satoshi, and at times I can see that similar type of "forget about a skill and then do the skill" writing from Satoshi era is thrown on him, but he's still mostly his own character. But that is probably why I'm more drawn to the likes of Liko, Dot, Friede, Amethio and Sango, because their fighting styles are so refreshing for me. I even like how Onyx and Sango pairing works, with Onyx fitting Sango's oni-speaking pattern (srsly wtf that must have been intended and now I want to know if dub has ANYTHING to match this speaking pattern with.)

There's been clear growth, clear character progression, much much slower team progress than whatever the fuck JN did (not jabbing at anyone who likes JN but I won't deny that I really hate how fucking fast most Pokémon evolved there. It seems Horizons knows not to rush things).

Act 1 suffered from pacing issue where stuff happens in one episode and then the next ep sort of shrugs it off and continues the plot in a really weird tone-shift, but I don't think act 2 had that, which I liked. But act 2 also had more fill-ins compared to the action-packed act 1. But imo, it was good to have a more slower, calming pace for a while. It helped build on the characters more, and show how the Rising Volt Tacklers exactly live like. Which makes the Brave Asagi breaking in recent episode ever so more heartbreaking aaaaaaaaah-

I'm also kinda glad I was wrong on the "only a one year long series", because so far I'm quite attached to the cast and definitely wouldn't have felt happy to see them go yet. So knowing that Horizons seems to follow the usual 3 year pace (maybe 2, maybe 4, who knows) makes me happy. And I totally look forward to act 3 that is definitely caused by the Brave Asagi needing long, long time for repairs.

So um yeh. This was a weird ramble lol. But like, love Horizons, don't exactly miss old show as I felt it told whatever it wanted to and had the danger of just, butchering characters further from what I enjoyed it for. Sometimes it's better to let go. Fanfics and fanarts will still exists for a long long time, I'm sure. But my enjoyment on Horizons has definitely caused me to not miss the old days at all. And I'm glad.

(Do I want Satoshi to return? Honestly? No. 26 years is long enough for me.)

[heroofashesnot]

what are your favorite murderdock fics?

I'm not good at picking favorites so this will be a bit long and also under a read more, also my ability to word started to fail me at times so sorry ahead of time.

Series:

-Take What the Water Gave Me by The_Shy_One: Having Castle as the main POV character for most of the series allows the writer to strike this balance between what the audience does and doesn't know. As of such while this is a romance, there is an element of mystery and danger as Matt's true nature and intentions are masterfully hidden. Plus I'm a sucker for mercreatures!

-The Lawyer All the Wickedness by poisonivory: Listen the way the writer unfolds this version of Matt and Foggy's story is exceedingly gripping even after having read this series several times over.

-Ghost Stories/Haunted Houses by Faaacethefacts: Honestly this is a case of initially reading for Murderdock and then staying for witnessing Sam's descent. However, the way that Sam and Matt's toxic father and son relationship is so beautifully written and how it both contrasts and mirrors the relationship that their Earth-616 counterparts makes it too good to leave out.

-Nelson & Murderdock by thelonebamf: While the stories within this series are all fairly different, they all share the writer's beautifully crafted narratives and excellent characterizations!

Spider-Verse 2: Into the Devil-Verse by 94BottlesofSnapple: While this is only earth-65, the whole series is too good to only read those parts but the way the writer balances all the different relationships and characters while also having all them shine is enviable. Also how Gwen and Murderdock's interactions always seem to maintain this edge due to the undercurrent of the power Murderdock has over her is just so good...

Grayson's Home For Wayward Assassin Children by Ferith12: A DC Crossover that just characterizes younger Murderdock just so well!

Pathetic by Udekai: The way that this writer has the characters feel so very painfully human while not sacrificing any character traits is just so great. An excellent series for if you're in a pre-canon mood.

-Earth-65 Matt/Foggy Stories by BlueBioluminescence: While the reason I adore each of the fics in this series a little bit different for each, I thoroughly enjoy all of them.

Murderdock x DA Nelson:

-give up on trying to save us by returnsandreturns: The way that Matt manipulates Foggy and how that blends so naturally into the sex is just so good. Power dynamics, my beloved <3.

-Ask Nelson and Murderdock (Fan Comic) by thelonebamf: Can also be found over here on tumblr, wonderful art, adore how organicly their relationship progresses. Also Dramatic Irony is so very good.

-shake hands with the devil (but i'm calling it a fist fight) by AsperJasper: A great take on a more heroic Murderdock, the way everything builds is great and so good...

(With the Exception Of You) I Dislike Everyone In The Room by MissMoochy: A very manipulative Matt, the way that Foggy just gets more and more drawn into his pull like a spider in a web is just <3

-You're a Question to the Universe by Longdaysjourney: DA Nelson is absent in this one but the way Murderdock with his Earth-199999 counterpart and how he has to take the role of advice giver is just delight to read.

-human after all by JustGail: Outsider looking into Murderdock and DA Nelson's relationship is a good trope and having it be Gwen is just so smart... Also love having DA Nelson's connection with George Stacy being acknowledged...

-The Last Goodbye by StripedScribe with Art by thelonebamf: Hanahaki Disease is a trope that I personally have mixed feelings about but StripedScribe's take on it just knocks it out of the park! Having Murderdock's allergy to expressing his emotions stab him in the back is just great!

-A Murder of Crows (A Seduction of Foes) by inkforhumanhands: Lots of callbacks to the comics, miscommunication done so well and in character, also just funny as hell!

-Find me in the ashes by EmeraldStorm: Post-canon story that really shows the push and pull of these two's relationship in such an intoxicating way, a really gripping read!

-As we dance by brittlestars: Masochism and manipulation, two favorites of mine. Matt stroking Foggy's anger is just so good...

-Lost in The Palms by deniigiq: An eerily heartfelt story, Foggy is both biting and tender and just such a good stories.

Murderdock x Frank Castle:

-All's Fair in Love and Hate by blackmetaldahlia: Banter and kinky hate sex.

-Down To The River by Feathers_and_cigarettes: Terrible people doing terrible things, love the tension between who Castle thinks he is and how easily he gives into Matt.

-The Power of Manipulation by alohdark: The way that Matt draws Castle out of his comfort zone and maintains control over the situation is so good...

Misc.:

-A Matching Set by contact_high: Dwells on the similarities between Matt and Maggie, a short but haunting story.

-Into the Dragon-Verse by Chlodobird: Best understood with the rest of the series but listen-I cannot deny this take on Dragon!Murderdock doesn't delight me everytime I read it.

-Gently Wipe the Blood from Your Hands by 94BottlesOfSnapple: The whole story builds up this sense of foreboding that sends shivers down my spine in the best possible way.

-Gwenverse Backstory: Not Quite Lovesick by 94BottlesOfSnapple: This story perfectly balances the homely feeling of a mundane sick day with a high-strung character like Murderdock so well.

-Walking Out The Door by 94BottlesOfSnapple: The way that the writer maintains such a high tension throughout the story without it faltering is masterful and just the characterization is just wonderful.

-the dirt by tigrrmilk: The tension between how much Foggy knows about Matt's actions and what he doesn't want to know as well of the back and forth of Gwen and Matt's interactions is just wonderful.

-Blood and Tears by bluspirits: A speculation on Murderdock's time with the Hand that I have read time and time again.

-Be It Done to You by LieutenantSanya: The way that the writer gets into Murderdock's thought process during his suicide attempt is chilling, just a great analysis on the character.

-Mending With Gold by Writing_Puffin: The way Murderdock's weird affection Gwen is characterized and just how the two interact is just so good.

-Bending Towards Justice by Dragonbat: While this was written just after Murderdock's first appearance, I love this take on a more heroic Murderdock even if it is OOC now.

-Stranger Danger by bluspirits: Has lots of call backs to various aspects and mentions within the comic series as well describes a potential first meeting between Gwen and Matt that gains its tension in just how mundane it is.

-To Have a Voice With Which to Sing by SenkoWakimarin: A Cyberpunk take on Murderdock that has a perfectly eerie atmosphere, Matt's detached perspective is perfect for this characterization of him.

-A Foray in Morals by GremlinMan: Earth-199999 Frank Castle and Murderdock encountering each in extremely comedic way, an absolute delight.

-diminishing returns by Hueyhuey with Art by PomegranteBelleArt: Just The Characterizations! The Interactions! The Takes on Elektra and Eleanor! Fun read!

-Don't be a stranger by Kamaya: More centered on Gwen on Murderdock but shows their interactions while Gwen is in jail, also just Matt's bitterness and how the writer characterizes his depression is just lovely.

-The Devil That You Know by Kamaya: Oneshots that range from Matt's response to Elektra's death to his suicide attempt, love the way the writer writes darker topics.

-Fog and Shadow by The_Shy_One: Earth-616 Mike interacting with Murderdock, just a genius concept that is tackled so wonderfully, the way Matt just mocks Mike with what he knows and Mike's unease is just great.

-The Future Is Written In Cathode Rays by 94BottlesOfSnapple: The way Gwen responses to such a violent invasion of Murderdock's privacy through such an intimate view of his past and potential future is just! wow! This story is just visceral on such a personal level!

-Burn The Past by Gunn: A What-If in which Maggie lives, Matt is just so callous and it's! so! good!

-Enjoy the Dance by thelonebamf: The way that everyone interacts and the tension and suspense and the contradictions of Matt's thoughts are really good!

-Welcome Knife by neonbrutalism: Matt is a karma houndini and this is short but so good, post-canon.

-The Seven Stages Of Grief as Experienced by Norman Osborn by abitofren: Messed up in the best way, love how the writer gets inside of Matt's head and its shown is just so good.

-The Cat Came Back by Udekai: Such a great comic, the way that the writer uses lighting and such to tell the story is great, just really atmospheric...

-How Not to Kill Yourself: An Elaborate Long Con by Matthew M. Murdock by Ferith12: So fond of this one, just so very messy in such a great way.

-Holiness by Ferith12: Just analyzing Murderdock's relationship with religion and how it changes as he and also the way he views himself changes is great.

Thanks for reading all the way to the end!

[rocketturtle4]

Not Me some more - Eps 6 & 7

@plantsarepeopletoo @anon451 @shouldiusemyname @thegalwhorants @wen-kexing-apologist @slayerkitty @fanfictionroxs @pandasmagorica

First post here

You're getting an update sooner than I thought because I skipped nearly allll my Sunday shows to take advantage of me and the watchbuddies all being on the weekend! (Oh My God Love in Translation finale brb - update will wait) (Finale was good am back, I feel so warm and cozy, what was I talking about again? Oh yeah how amazing Not Me is)

Episode 6 was a lot and episode 7 was AMAZING

There was NO Todd in either ep so I have no additional thoughts on him.

The plan in ep 6 was bonkers but it was crazy for White to switch it out right at the end!! Strangulation was a bit much though...

[Image of Yok saying: Your plan sucked]

I did adore the crosswalk metaphor in 6 1/4 though, walking into traphic because you're in the right doesn't mean you won't be killed, and if you are killed will your death have made a difference? mmmmm I really want other people I know to watch this show...

[Image of White saying: Your life is worth more than you think}

interestingly one of the only things I had already seen was that moment under the pride flag

not with sound or words, just the hand grab and the jumping and, with no context, I had assumed it would be much later in the series, a moment where the characters accept their relationship to each other...but nope, Instead it was a moment of shared celebration before that shift in the relationship, I might love that even more!!

Episode 7 felt like it shifted tone a little though to what I'm not quite sure yet.

We did get apparent resolution/explanation for the Eugene/Gram stuff

[Image of Eugene saying: Knowing nothins is the worst thing ever]

Seriously, she was dumped and then drawn in and then dumped again, very rough for Eugene.

I'm still not sure whether Graham was in love with Black or her though...

No more evolution on the theory of who hurt black and why specifically, except it's either the obvious answer (Tawi) or Tod...

Also, gosh! First was distracting this ep! Like how am I supposed to read the subtitles when I can't look away from his eyes??

[Multiple images of Yok staring at other characters]

Excuse me sir, please put your eyes away so I can focus!

[Image of Yok with his hand on Grahams face as they stare into each others eyes]

ALSO WHAT KIND OF TEASING WAS THIS ^^^ First Graham and Black now Graham and Yok? Somebody better kiss Graham soon (I mean he did kiss Eugene but STILL).

The nuance of Yok's mother being negatively impacted by his actions... ahh I do adore it.

@plantsarepeopletoo made a comment when we were watching about White being thought and Black being action and the halves of the whole they make up. All these people influenced by Black's action now being exposed to White's thought...

[Image of Sean and White asleep together]

Also again, OffGun is still working for me no matter how much I want White and Graham to kiss...

PLUS

Cop/Yok progression!! (I haven't learned Gawin's characters name yet)

[Yok saying: Will you uncuff me so we can have a proper conversation]

(Gawin also showing off his eyes this ep!)

(also Yok loves him for his skill as an artist?? Be still my beating heart)

I have been promised GOOD things for next ep :D

[Yok saying: It's my turn to draw you]

Also commentary on the police!! The actions we don't see and the difference between individuals and an organisation. SO MUCH IS BEING SAID IN THIS SHOW. Working both inside and outside organisations is required to make change. Also the way officers are granted automatic respect/lack of suspicion.

[image 1 with Yok saying: being both a cop and an artist that runs from cops. Image 2 with cop saying: I want to make things better than they are now]

Plus the confirmation from multiple characters this ep around knowing that their actions might lead to death or jail and choosing it anyway... Youth is such a passionate time.

[Yok saying: I never considered myself a hero who fights for justice]

[Sean saying: I do whatever needs to be done]

I think that's all for now, I am curious how the rising up of more people might challenge the more extreme actions of the gang, since White was working hard this ep to make them understand that alienating the people would only hurt their cause...

Also how long before Black wakes up? And at what point does the gang find out? Is White in place for the whole series?

Also didn't get any dad these two eps either so White hasn't been White for a while...ugh patience

This ended up with a lot of Yok images again... no idea why that keeps happening.

[jenyifer]

Ah I forgot to post here but…. Guess Who’s been writing another part of my series about Polyamorous BostonRaySandNick. Now to be fair I’d like to delete the last 6 chapters of Growing up.. but instead I’ve been writing the Sand and Nick backstory. So if you want to read about Nick and Sand being adorable little soulmates this is the fic for you.

The rating will increase Id imagine. Anyways if anyone has a scene request Id love to hear it

Here’s a little taste of the fic this part even has Top, Ray, and Boston in it.

Today was the day of the game, and Sand felt a knot of anxiety twist in his stomach. He turned to Nick, his voice tinged with nervousness. "We'll be getting there during the last half of the game. Maybe we should just tell Top we couldn't make it."

Nick's eyes filled with understanding and reassurance as he looked at Sand. "Sand, it's going to be fine. Top really wants us there, and besides, I want to be there with you. We'll do this together."

Taking a deep breath, Sand felt a bit more at ease with Nick's words. With a nod, he agreed to go, hoping that this experience would only strengthen their bond.

Nick confidently took Sand’s hand as they walked toward Top’s prestigious private school. Nick couldn't help but think they might burst into flames in the immaculate halls, feeling out of place among such opulence. But he had already familiarized himself with the layout of the school, so he easily found their way to the auditorium. They handed their tickets to a bored attendant before stepping into the loud gym.

Nick scanned the gym for an open seat, the bustling crowd making it a challenge. After a bit of searching, he spotted two seats behind a small boy with a heart-shaped smile, eagerly bouncing in his seat and surrounded by a group of girls. It was clear why others had avoided those seats, but the sight of Top sending a thumbs-up their way made it all worthwhile. Despite the boy in front of them making a gagging sound, Nick brushed it off, whispering to Sand, "See, Sand? Top is thrilled we're here for him."

The game continued with an intensity that reverberated through the gym, the crowd's energy electrifying the atmosphere. Sand and Nick settled into their seats, their attention fixed on the action unfolding on the court. Top's prowess was on full display, his athleticism and skill shining as he led his team with determination.

As the game progressed, Sand and Nick found themselves cheering more enthusiastically. Top's team was gaining momentum, and the atmosphere in the gym became electric. Every basket, every defensive play, was met with roars of approval or groans of disappointment from the crowd.

Sand and Nick couldn't tear their eyes away from the intense action on the court, their hearts pounding in sync with the rhythm of the game. Every play, every shot, felt like a make-or-break moment, and the outcome hung in the balance.

Suddenly, with only seconds left on the clock, Top made a daring move that left the crowd gasping. He dribbled past defenders with lightning speed, executed a perfect spin move, and launched a three-point shot that seemed to hang in the air for an eternity before swishing through the net at the buzzer.

The gym erupted in a deafening roar as Top's team secured the victory. Sand and Nick jumped to their feet, cheering and clapping with unrestrained joy. Top's teammates rushed to congratulate him, but he made a beeline for Sand and Nick, a wide grin on his face.

"Thanks for being here, guys. You really helped me push through," Top said, giving them both a heartfelt hug.

Nick and Sand embraced Top tightly, their elation overriding any discomfort from his sweat-soaked jersey. Amidst the jubilant chaos of the post-game celebrations, Sand's attention was drawn to the sight of the boy with the heartwarming smile playfully showering the tan boy, who had assisted Top in making crucial shots, with affectionate kisses. The tender display stirred a longing within Sand, igniting thoughts of a future where he and Nick could openly share such affection.

[crows-home]

Hello hellooooo I have thoughts about Tiger and Bunny :) below the cut because it's so long lmao. I tried to keep spoilers out of it, for the most part, but this is mainly me talking about things i liked

I really liked the character designs. It's what immediately drew my eye and hooked me when I was just channel surfing and came across it. I was like holy shit!!! Black people drawn super well in an anime!!!! It's something that I wasn't used to, Made my heart sing yk.

I adored the character designs for the most part!! Yeah some of them (barnaby) looked silly, but it really fit their character. It's a superhero anime- I was expecting it!

Oh man, speaking of, I'm such a goner for superhero/ mecha stuff. Some of my favorite franchises growing up were Transformers, Power Rangers, and Tenkai Knights. So when I flipped through channels, saw the heroes in action and the fighting/ animation, my brain went "!!!!!!! Yes!!!" I gushed over Tiger and Barnaby's hero suits, heck, everyone's hero suits. It just scratches an itch in my brain.

I watched the dub, and I thought it was great!! Lots of funny lines and great deliveries :) ("and what's that over there?" "Oh that's. A building." "And that?" "...also.. A building." And "I don't talk like that!" "I dOnt TaLk liKe ThAT!" And God any line where Bunny was crying was just so good. Really pulled on my heart strings even when I wasn't expecting it to) Sure, some of the scenes were corny, but I was expecting it!

The plot was solid, though I can see where some holes might be poked. But there was so much character in every episode, I love the teamwork and the way everyone interacted with each other. And the attention that was placed on their relationships with their families. Even if I wish for more, it's fun to play around with in my head. Like, I'm sure Fire Emblem was a big step forward, in universe, for gay rights and their flirty, flamboyant attitude is the biggest "fuck you" to homophobes. I'm sure Dragon Kid's debut, at 13, caused a commotion about children doing hero work, especially when she's getting hurt so much. I'm sure there's a lot of background politics at play regarding heroes and their sponsors that we don't see. I know a lot of this was left out, because they wanted a story with one plot, because they weren't sure how far this series would go, because it just wasn't as interesting. But oh man, these things have been in my head ever since I watched it. Tiger and Bunny is a fun playground.

(I'm going to be honest, I went in without high expectations for the plot. I was just here for cool fight scenes)

I appreciated the direction they took Karina's crush on Kotetsu. I was really wary at first. She's 15? 16? and he's like 36. If they were going to be pairing up the underage girl with the grown man she had a crush on, I was prepared to drop the whole show and hate it. But no!! The progression was sweet, the way Kotetsu obviously sees her as a daughter, and how Karina evolved into her feelings was just :')

Also. Holy fucking shit. Barnabys entire life just. Put out there, for the whole world to see. I can't imagine the sense of perversion that creates. The world knows his name, his backstory, everything. He no longer has his own life, his own choices. It's ridiculous, and I'm glad he had people there to support him.

UNLIKE KOTETSU JEEZ. Man was getting the short end of the stick at every turn ToT I felt so bad for him every time he tried to hard to be recognized, but also just embarrassed. Give him a break!!!

And. Even before going into this, I knew that people would ship Tiger and Bunny. I've been around the block, I know how this shit goes, especially in these types of shows. Two guys being super close, going on about their friendship and all that, is bound to attract shipping. I wasn't against it!- I was just ready for it, but was mostly planning on ignoring it.

But. Holy shit. It's really all there huh. They're like. in Love Love.

("you're only partners for each other." "You two fight like an old married couple." "we dont need to talk to know what the other is thinking." "you're always making me think about you."

Kotetsu "I wonder how Bunny's doing again" Kaburagi and Barnaby "Have I told you about Kotetsu today yet" Brooks Jr. Neither of you are subtle.)

I'll make another post with some more detailed criticisms and takes, but for now, this is all my brain wants to gush about

[derekscorner]

I wish the original God of War had a remake

Now before you immediately click off because you’re one of those gamers (or even movie fans) tired of the laziness that studios have fell too lately please allow me to elaborate.

I do not say this because I want anything grand. I’m not demanding they remake the classic series or even the classic trilogy. What I desire is that original game remade for some polish and love. (the series has an anniversary soon right?)

Sure, I could just find the original and- well, I did! I’m waiting on it in the mail so I can emulate. Despite this I still would like to see it redone for a few reasons.

Namely World-Building

I’m sure a good reason for many is just gameplay alone. I’ve yet to play it so I can’t chime in on that part of the topic but I do know many say the game has moments that are more annoying that fun. A little rework and polish to rid a player of needless annoyance is always desired.

The reason I personally want to see it remade is from a world stage perspective. The original title was a great enough stand alone work that it spawned this series and since I’m someone who adores simplicity I feel drawn to seeing it.

In the bluntest of terms, I find the grander world that Kratos’ lives in to be a headache. (Let’s list a few)

Such as the world of GoW being depicted as round in Ascension yet the dev team confirming this world is flat.

Or the nature of the various pantheons inhabiting this shared flat world despite the two pantheons we’ve seen so far having vastly different, yet both accurate, origins to that world.

How can Midgard be made of Ymir’s corpse when the world was supposedly born of the Greek primordial gods killing each other in a war of mutual destruction?

Was Odin just blowing smoke up his own ass? How much of Greece, Midgard, the other realms, and even confirmed countries like Egypt is made from Chaos or Ymir?

How can the death of the gods in Greece be so grander to the desolation of that nation compared to the deaths of the Aesir in Midgard? So far the only life that seemed to drastically alter Midgard’s environment was Atreus when he was on deaths door in GoW 2018.

Who cursed Kratos to be an undying demigod?

What is the higher plane that Athena ascended too and what is the rift in Odin’s basement? (yes I’ve seen the theories on both being based in gnosticism)

How many timelines has Kratos and Jormungandr created between Kratos killing the Fates and the splinter in Yggdrasil?

If lands are connected as one world then why would Greece “dying” render Kratos of all his magics when the world as a whole seems as alive as always?

How can death exist in Greece or any land with Thanatos slain by Kratos? How does one even kill death?

The sheer level of damage Kratos had done in the various prequels and intermission games. I find it hard to believe the other gods, let alone Zeus, let Kratos be when he was going around sinking Atlantis among other bits of collateral.

There’s a slew of questions and I’m sure long time fans can both answer some of these, add more, or offer decent theories to wipe them away.

Others may just argue “it’s about the characters” and ignore this and, ya know what, that’s fair. I agree.

No, seriously, some would argue this but God of War is fundamentally character focused. To ignore the inconsistencies is a valid approach with this having even more validity in the classic series due to it’s action game nature.

Sure, classic Kratos can be stoic and one-note but he is not without character. Everything he did was due to his families death. He wasn’t a good man, not a faithful husband, but he did truly love them. By Greek/Spartan standards he may have even been a great father too his daughter.

He only gets more stereotype as the series progresses because he’s meant too. IRL he was known as the angry god killer man but in-story his rage was constantly building. Any semblances of trust or attachment was answered with betrayal or tragedy.

For him to be screaming “ZEUSSSSSSSSSSSSS” for most of GoW 3 is a logical evolution in my mind. Not sure about the hope angle or Pandora but that’s an argument for a long time fan to make.

God of War, classic God of War, is a greek tragedy through and through. It’s not as deep as 2018 but Kratos’ character does reflect change. Even if it’s a villainous change.

I’m not trying excuse his actions nor is those titles nor is Kratos himself years later. He was an vengeful rage fueled god and his guilt for that is one reason his story in the Norse world works so well.

Getting back on Point

Sorry for the tangent, point is that I get it. However, I’m a being bothered by things in world building. I got into this series backwards with 2018 having only played GoW 2 once in high school. I’m not going to ask for a whole rework or remake series when the Norse titles have done so well building off Kratos past.

I want a God of War remake because I believe it’d be a fun title but I also think Kratos’ world works best within the confines of one mythology. There’s not as many holes in the stage and it’d make a great stand alone title. An entry point for some.

From my understanding, the original title had two endings. A stand alone ending and one suggesting a sequel. You could keep those, the original stand alone ending and another showing what’s to come. You could add costumes and weapons from the series as a whole. Maybe add other things that I wont even know of being a newer fan.

Possible Hot-take (I guess?)

Most importantly, and by far the most personal aspect for me, I think it’s more impressive if Kratos is just a mortal that slew a god. I’m not sure if Kratos being Zeus’ son was present during GoW 1 or if that was a plot made for GoW 2 and built upon but I actually find it a bit weak compared to what was presented in the first game.

The Norse titles did a damn good job of using that history of patricide as fuel for Kratos’ growth as a person but I still (and I do stress “personally) think it is less impressive. (especially when he canonically slew several immortals prior to GoW 1)

GoW 1 focus’ strongly on the fact that gods are immortal. Kratos rising up to kill the god that wronged him is more impressive, if not world shaking, to Greece if he’s just a mortal. Not a son of Zeus or any god but a man. One that, albeit with aid, managed to stand up to a god and kill that god.

A damn good spartan, a god-made monster/weapon forged with the intentions of battle Olympus but still mortal all the same. That’s what stuck out to me most when seeing GoW 1′s story.

That’s one reason I’d love to see GoW 1 remade with minimal story change. You could take it or leave it, play it and try the rest of the series or just stick with this one entry, overall I think it’d be a fun game if remade.

Anyway, bye now~

================================================

P.S. those images are taken from a fan project of a God of War remake in case you’re wondering....I also realize that last section would’ve made a better separate post but oh well.

P.S.S.S I have just finished God of War 2005 and I used a cheat to take a peak at the treasures. Seems like Kratos being Zeus’ son has been an idea from the get go.

I still feel it’s a bit weaker compared to a regular mortal toppling a god but I won’t hold that as strongly now that I know.

[theangryjikooker]

TAJ 🔍 Run BTS! • #7-10

Disclaimer Please note that this is for entertainment purposes only. What I comment on is purely observational, and there is no way for anyone to know the true nature of these dynamics and what motivates them without actually being a presence in their lives or a direct confidant(e). Any statement made that inadvertently comes across as "factual" should be understood as an implication within the boundaries of my perspective.

Introduction The first time I thought about doing this, my goal was to focus on the interactions and development of Jungkook and Jimin. This "miniseries," if you will, went through several iterations as I was watching Run BTS, and I decided to be a bit more inclusive about how the group behaves/interacts with one another with an emphasis on Jungkook and Jimin, when applicable. I believe doing it this way provides a better context and contrast.

Also, my observations won't really take their other content into account that was happening around the same time. I might say something that contradicts a Bangtan Bomb that was released roughly around the same time, for instance, so just be advised. Anyone is more than welcome to chime in with interesting tidbits from other content (if it's relevant).

If the episodes are short enough, or I don't feel like there's much going on, I'm going to fit several in a post.

Episode 7

I think it bears mentioning that when I first got into BTS and started watching Run, I started watching the later episodes. I initially skipped the earlier episodes because they weren't as long, and the setup was quite different as the series progressed. I watched it eventually, of course, but I was watching to be entertained and not really paying attention to anything.

But right now, as Taehyung and Jungkook display their elaborate and customized handshake, they're obviously close friends. I'd seen other interactions between them at this age, and they have a tendency to act more like same-age friends (which they still act like to this day). It's an interesting contrast against Jimin and Jungkook a lot of the time because you'd think the dynamics would be somewhat similar because Taehyung and Jimin are both two years older, but there is an obvious distinction between them that starts to arise the older they get.

Around the time that I was first watching this series, I always wanted the team that Jungkook was on to win. Part of my adoration for him was because he was so competitive (which I relate to) and excelled at a lot of physical activities. It's funny rewatching this with my current mindset where I don't have a vested interest in any singular person.

I mentioned this in the previous installment, but Yoongi really is an interesting character study. Watching him in action perfectly displays how unlike people generally perceive him.

Hoseok is so lovable and animated in everything he does. It's easy to see where he gets his nickname, and why he's always this source of optimism for the group. Fun fact that no one asked for, but it’s funny how I wasn't drawn to Hoseok immediately when I got into BTS because I am probably the most like him in real life: I'm extremely social and extroverted, my disposition is similar to his despite how I might come across online, etc. Anyway.

Red Team wins, as expected. Maknae line congratulates each other. Jikookers know this is the special episodic arc where Jimin allows Jungkook to do whatever he wants to him (see E10), and he seems to have all the patience in the world for him. It's easy to want to celebrate this if you have no real context to any of the other dynamics, but keep in mind that Yoongi is actually the same way with Jungkook. As a Jikooker, I don't put too much stock into this particular interaction, but it's cute to watch nonetheless. The difference between Jungkook’s method of attack with the other members vs. Jimin is that he was essentially pestering Jimin to get a rise out of him, which obviously went nowhere. It’s hard to say if Jimin would’ve been as receptive if it were anyone else and if he would’ve retaliated, or if his demeanor was specific to Jungkook. If anything, it does cement a certain baseline/tone to how Jimin receives Jungkook's behavior.

Episode 8

Jin and Jungkook unequivocally display the most brotherly antics of the group (which extends beyond the series). It's not really limited to their actions, but it's also in the way they respond to one another. In a lot of these games, Jungkook has a very cutthroat style of play if it means he gets a leg up on everyone. It's easy to see why, later on, his behavior is seen as significant when he's more lenient where Jimin is involved when he usually isn't or has no reason to be.

Taehyung is cute. He wants to goof around on the ATVs and is relying on his pact with Namjoon and Jimin that they'll share with him. It reminds me of the much later episode where he takes a break to play with a cat rather than to focus on his mission. It's easy to see why his behaviors will throw off the members at times because he does act according to his own whimsy. I think it's the most likable thing about him. I've always found him to be the quirkiest of the members, and I think it was a lot more apparent when he was younger. But I do think his offbeat personality is the catalyst for his creativity. It tends to be unanimous among the members that Jungkook is the most creative/talented, but I do think Taehyung's creativity is underrated. His interests and aesthetics in the present day is a consistent hallmark of who he always has been.

Naturally, Jungkook gets his comeuppance when he loses a flag that Yoongi picks up.

Anyone can say what they want about big corporations because it's not like they're without fault, but Big Hit/HYBE producing Run and Bon Voyage was one of the best things they did for BTS, in my opinion. The boys were free to interact with each other in the most comfortable and natural way, they were able to experience things that might not have been possible if they were backed by a major production company, and most importantly they were able to have fun. I'm sure it was difficult at times when their schedule was jam packed, but I do think their series gave them the opportunity to feel some semblance of normalcy–to just be boys, to act their age, to have this outlet.

Taehyung and Jimin really are an adorable pair. I have different thoughts about their dynamic as full-fledged adults and how that's changed, but I can definitely see why they got along extremely well as young adults and how they played off each other.

It's amusing how Jimin offers Jungkook a flag "because he's cute” and how Jimin engages with Taehyung. I don't believe this disparity is necessarily significant, but I would say that it's a little noteworthy how Jimin acquiesces easily over Jungkook because of appearance/behavior-based factors. Obviously, this is something that he does throughout his life, but this dynamic becomes more interesting as it benefits Jimin later when he starts to embody cuteness according to Jungkook. This will be interesting to see how this evolves later on, and I'll at least have an opportunity to see how that plays against the way the other members treat Jungkook as well (and vice versa).

Episode 9

It's only in snippets and based off of the editors' commentary, but I think this is one of many insights we're given as to how Jimin really does cherish the members and his experience in the group. All of them obviously value each other, but I do stand by my own belief that Jimin is a little more uniquely sensitive about it. And he's consistent about it too as he grows older, how sentimental he is about the members. This moment doesn't come close to the beautiful things he says and does for the others, but it's easy to get a smidge emotional when seeing how impacted Jimin is by the members. I think when you put into perspective his initial onboarding (and the uncertainty of it), to where he was when this episode happened, as well as the personal issues he’d struggle with in time, it paints a distilled picture of Jimin’s relationship to the group.

It’s moments like these that make it hard for me to be sympathetic or nice to anyone who talks badly about him.

Episode 10

Yoongi would prefer to starve and give the last piece of food to his members in a zombie apocalypse, no question. It's these little tidbits you get about the individual members that provides further depth and confirmation about why BTS were able to overcome major hurdles as trainees and post-debut. Yes, they're all very talented and worked hard, but I firmly believe that who they innately were as individuals was also significant to how well they would succeed as a group. I think I've talked about this before (but with more emphasis on Jin), but the hyung line were fundamentally responsible for how BTS could've turned out. That is to say, growing up in their enclosed environment makes the kind of role models you have vital, of which they were great ones.

Jungkook is revealed to be the spy in this arc (E7-10). I've already touched on what I think of Jimin being unaffected by Jungkook's behavior.

I'm on the fence as to whether this deserves any commentary because it's the kind of content that you could overlook, but at the same time it's a little like doing a double-take. In this interview with Jungkook, he follows this quote up with the fact that he got to bungee jump and that he enjoyed being a spy/hoping he gets another chance to be a spy in the future. He enjoyed the secret mission, but Jimin giving him a flag was not at all influential to his success or experience in this arc and yet he gives that moment a shoutout anyway. He is food motivated, however, which might be why he refers to that act of kindness. And yet Yoongi and Hoseok, who were at the bottom of the rung, got to reap the rewards of the dinner regardless, so was it really worth mentioning at all in the end? I suppose it’s what he's prioritizing that's amusing (?) because given what we know happened in this arc and who he is, clinching the win for the Red Team and actually succeeding in his mission overall would be the highlights of his experience to me (apart from bungee jumping).

––

I don't know if I really have to say this, but please keep in mind that I'm writing my observations during the time these events were happening. What I'm saying about Jikook in this series doesn't reflect how I feel about them today, but some of the things that I am saying are influential in my personal narrative for them.

Previous • Next

[bookstocinemas]

The Book to Mini-series adaption "Looking for Alaska" will win your heart

"Looking for Alaska" is a master-piece that stands out as one of the best book-to-series adaptations. I vividly recall the days when I was completely immersed in John Green's "Looking for Alaska". Each day, I eagerly anticipated the next twist in the story. The world of Culver Creek felt so relatable, brimming with emotions. When I began watching the series, it felt like I was reliving the book all over again.

The story is narrated by Miles, an unassuming boy who enrolls at Culver Creek. From the moment he steps onto the campus, the journey of self-discovery, fun, pranks, and the coming-of-age for each character unfolds in its own unique way. The series perfectly captures the atmosphere of Culver Creek. As soon as Miles arrives, he is given the nickname "Pudge" by his roommate, Chip. Just like in the book, the characters vividly portray the pleasures and pains of teenage envy and rivalry.

The relatability of the characters is what makes this story resonated so deeply with me.

As Pudge and Chip's friendship develops, the series reveals how they evolve from being mere acquaintances to the best of friends—practically brothers. Chip is an emotional yet strong character who stands firmly for what is right. Many of the pranks they pull off are successful, thanks to him. Together, Chip, Pudge, and Takumi form a close-knit group.

We are then introduced to the heroine of the story, Alaska Young. She is moody, spontaneous, secretive, bookish, a feminist, and carries a tough past. She’s flirty, dreamy, and ultimately unattainable. One detail I absolutely adored about her is that she named herself when she was young.

Pudge feels butterflies fluttering in his stomach when he first meets Alaska Young. Initially, he’s drawn to her confidence and her strategic mind when it comes to planning pranks. Though unspoken, she naturally assumes the role of the group's leader, while Chip is the one who brings their plans to life.

With time progressing, the group begins to grow, and their bond appears to be stronger. The story further prospers with an assignment given in the classroom. Everyone ponders the topic chosen by Alaska Young: That’s the mystery, isn’t it? Is the labyrinth alive or dead? Which is he trying to escape—the world or the end of it?” 

Till then, readers presumably assume that we have a decent assumption about the character of Alaska. But as we keep going forward with the story, we sense that unlikeable characters from Alaska keep appearing to others, including Pudge. Even though others might not be ready to accept the hidden Alaska, Pudge thinks otherwise; he feels the need to understand her more and struggles with choices'. No matter what, Pudge still supports Chip and Alaska. Pudge goes through the grey area of knowing the real Alaska. He trusts her and gives her the assurance that he is there for her in any circumstances. Yes, Alaska Young has a dark past. And she struggles with it, holding the wound deep. Pudge walks with her, even though darker shades of Alaska keep appearing. 

"Looking for Alaska" becomes more than a teen drama when Alaska dies.

A big story turn happens in the middle, which is unusual compared to other novels. In most of the stories, big turns either take place at the end of the novel or right upfront at the beginning. 

"Looking for Alaska" is sadly deemed a teen story, but for me, it was more than a masterpiece. It answers the important questions about life, uncertainties, traumas, and kindness. And how the real story of a person is hidden underneath the layers of their heart. And everyone, including Alaska, wanted to know how to break the labyrinth of suffering. It's still a mystery.

But Pudge finds the answers. 

Pudge narrates the reason for the heartbreaking question to Takumi. He quotes, “If only we could see the endless string of consequences that result from our smallest actions, but we can’t know better until knowing better is useless." They couldn’t have known, though they wish they had. The irony is ever-present and well-placed. Pudge realises that he will never discover Alaska’s last words, nor will he ever know whether she chose to end her life or if it was an accident they might have prevented. He will carry these questions and the uncertainty that comes with them for the rest of his life.

Overall, the actors did a fantastic job. The direction and the production team also justified the book. It's a must-watch for book lovers. 

Series rating - 4.5/5

Megha Shinde, Author & Poet, Books 2 Cinema

[iprobablyshipit91]

Im so happy you chose to drop another chapter early for us! I’ve been absolutely dying to read more. And can I just say that gif you chose 😍 his smile. Damn 🫠

So you know I’m also a fan of procedurals too and I love how you built up the firehouse in this. They do feel like such a family with the good natured bickering and I love all the personalities you managed to get in. Jack really embodied the probie perfectly with his eagerness to please and learn. Meg is certainly an interesting character. I kinda loved her sarcastic, spitfire personality. She’s definitely going to be an interesting one for sure. Intrigued to see chuck in this and again, similar to Gordon, knowing what we know about him on the show I’m intrigued as to what you’re going to do with his character.

I do wonder, because I know how clever a writer you are, is this story with Henry going to come back? Or is it just as it appears on the surface… giving jack a taste of how dark the job can be.

But deans thoughts of the reader just had me grinning so much! How he’s instantly drawn to her and the little details he fixes on. It made me all warm inside 🥰🥰

I loved the interaction between the two, the nerves and flirty banter was adorable. And the fact she baked to feed the five thousand was both hilarious and apt considering it’s the fire house.

But oh are you kidding me? This? This right here is the moment he decides to rein it in, curb his behaviour and be professional. Damn girl. You’re killing me 😂 I was sad to see Dean already assume he’s not going to be good enough, though that’s perfect for his character!

But the teasing 😂 ““Thanks again, Lieutenant Winchester,” she mocked in a saccharine sweet voice. Then she lowered it into an exaggerated mimic of his deeper one, “Call me Dean, baby girl. Fucking priceless. You should get your own Hallmark movie.”” I absolutely cackled at this one. I would pay to hear Meg do that impression of dean. And then benny and Gordon also didn’t disappoint… “Benny and Gordon looked at him like he’d just denounced Led Zeppelin (his favorite band of all time).” Brilliant.

But ooh, first comment that has me wondering about Gordon… is he going to try it with the reader too? That would be interesting. Either way, I didn’t like his line and it gave such a stark contrast to deans own thoughts about her.

I love that you’ve also jumped straight into the drama. Not only do we have a murder, but a string of them and the same mark of the murderer of Mary Winchester. Damn you’re going deep here my friend and I love it. I look forward to trying to solve the case as this progresses. I do agree with Cas though, John keeping things from his boys never ends well.

Again I just want to say I’m so happy the reader has a friend like Dre. That flashback scene to Nick was foul. I’m not at all surprised he did it but it’s just such disgusting behaviour. I look forward to the reader ultimately getting the best of him as it has to happen right?

I enjoyed seeing the relationships build more with the guys. Cas and Megs relationship kinda sounds like my worst nightmare. I just couldn’t live with crazy like that 😂 it works for some I guess though lol. Love Sam and Eileen and I hope we get more of them too! I again loved the ribbing they gave him for his dating history. The carpet burns but made me laugh. Interesting about dean and jos past relationship and the reasons he backed off. I’m guessing that might get brought up again at some point…

I CANT BELIEVE YOU LEFT IT THERE. HOW COULD YOU DO THAT 😂 man it’s not even a cliffhanger yet and I’m dying for more. I just thought we were going to get some good stuff and Dean was finally going to go for it 😂🙈

I absolutely can’t wait for the next chapter. I’m hooked on this series completely already 💕 great job my friend, this was amazing!

Smoke Eater - Part 2

Pairing: Firefighter!Dean Winchester x F. Reader 

Summary: Dean Winchester is the cocky, but well-respected Lieutenant at Firehouse 25. He leads by example, but he’s also known to break a few hearts. He’s starting to crave something he’s never had, though. Something stable. Something real. 

That’s when he meets you, on a truly terrible day, trapped in a rickety old elevator.   

AN: I was overwhelmed by the response on Part 1 (in the BEST way). 🥹 Thank you so much for everyone who read and sent me your lovely amazing comments! Here's Part 2 a bit early for ya. 😘

🔥Series Masterlist

Word Count: 6,400 Tags/Warnings: Idiots flirting, with a side of sexual harassment. 😪

Part 2: "Lieutenant Winchester"

Firehouse 25 was just as much a house as it was a home.

Especially for Dean Winchester.

In the common room, he sat down at his preferred corner of the sofa with a cup of coffee. By now, the guys knew this was his spot, perfectly angled toward the new flatscreen TV someone donated last month.

Up until then, they’d had to hotwire the same tank from 1995, which had only got basic cable. Now at least the newer smart TV came with a subscription to Netflix, courtesy of the donor. 

Dean raised his favorite Batman mug to his face, expecting to imbibe some rich dark roast. What he got was a travesty.

Spitting out the brown soil water back into the mug, he coughed and grimaced.

“Jack!” he called out.

Jack Kline, the newest addition to the house, raised his head from where he was trying to scramble eggs in the open kitchen directly behind the couch.

“Yes, Lieutenant?” he replied.

“Why does this coffee taste like ass?” Dean asked. His voice was still gruff with sleep, as he depended on his morning coffee to wake him up, not assault his tongue.

Behind him, Jack blinked in confusion. “Uh…”

Dean finally turned around and gave the younger man a raised brow.

“What brand did you buy, Candidate?” he asked.

A candidate was a freshly graduated firefighter on probation. They were the rookie, the bottom rung of the totem pole, and Jack was that proverbial whipping post.

“Um…” Jack went to find the coffee canister he’d put away in the cupboards. He showed Dean the red plastic jug. “Folgers. It was on sale.”

“Fuck me,” Dean muttered. “Never Folgers, Candidate. Anything but fucking Folgers. The one thing we don’t skimp out on is quality joe.”

“That ain’t nothin’ but dirt water, son,” Benny remarked, as he and Gordon entered the common room. Benny held a to-go mug he’d brought from home. After he’d seen what Jack brought for groceries yesterday, he’d taken no chances.

“What you wanna get is Gevalia,” Benny added.

“That European crap?” said Gordon. He took his usual spot at the dining table, leaning back in his chair. It left Benny to sit at the other end of the couch with Dean.

“Better than that piss water you drink,” Benny said with a smirk. Gordon raised a brow at him.

“Tea is medicinal, jackass.” The Black man raised a finger to punctuate his point. “It’s good for you. Unlike that carburetor fluid y’all drink.”

“Whatever, man,” Dean said, even though a grin edged at his lips. “All I know is, we need premium coffee, stat. Or it’s gonna be a cranky shift.”

“I can go to the store real quick,” Jack offered.

Say what you want about the kid’s poor taste in grocery buying, he was always willing to jump in when you needed him.

“Nah, stay on breakfast,” said Dean. “I’ll go afterwards. But remember, today you’re practicing rappelling drills.”

Jack nodded. “And lunch duty. And helping clean the truck, and all the bathrooms…did I miss anything?”

Dean shared a look with Gordon. Not only did he drive the truck, but he was one of the men Dean relied on most, as he had the next highest seniority on the job out of the whole firehouse.

Well, except for Benny Lafitte, Captain of the Rescue Squad. Squad members were considered specialists in complex rescue situations. They were highly trained on more sophisticated technical rescue equipment and rappelling, even scuba diving.

It took long years for a firefighter to make it onto Squad; something that Dean used to have ambitions for. But ever since he got promoted to Lieutenant on Truck 79, he realized that his role in this house was best served on the Truck, not on Squad.

“If he gets through all that, Meg might have something for him too,” Gordon said.

“Oh, don’t bring me into this,” remarked a droll voice. “I’ve already got one pound puppy to look after.”

Their Paramedic in Charge strode in with Chuck on her heels. They’d just pulled into the firehouse driveway on Ambulance 7.

“Nice. That’s how you talk about your partner of three years?” Chuck said with a frown. Meg turned to him with a wry grin.

“Only the ones who can hack it on my Ambo,” she replied. “What can I say. You’re special, Shurley. Either that, or a glutton for punishment.”

Gordon shook his head and looked over at Jack.

“Careful with that one. She chewed and hacked out her last partner in under a month.”

“Poor guy didn’t even transfer,” Dean added, making a “flatlining” motion with his hand. “He just quit. Dropped out of the Fire Academy that same day.”

Not all firefighters were made through Meg’s department, but it was a common route, working as a paramedic while getting put through your paces in the Fire Academy. Dean himself had gone straight to the Academy after getting his EMT certification.

But at Dean’s words, Jack’s eyes widened a fraction. Meg turned to him with an almost feline smile. 

“How was the call?” Benny asked her, speaking of the job they’d just returned from. Meg’s expression dimmed a little, as did Chuck’s as they both sat down at the table.

“Ah, just Henry again,” she said. “Overdosed on his insulin.”

Benny frowned, while Dean shook his head. Jack’s brows furrowed.

“Who’s Henry?” he asked.

Meg sat back in her chair with a subtle sigh. Knowing his work partner’s mood, Chuck answered the young man’s question.

“He’s homeless, lives by the river,” he said. “He’s one of our ‘regulars,’ you could say. When we get the call, usually he’s passed out. Dehydration. But sometimes it’s more serious.”

“You can’t take him to the hospital?” Jack asked in concern.

“Today we did,” Meg said. Her brown eyes met Jack’s, her mouth in a thin line. “But without health insurance, there’s only so much they can do after they get him stable.”

That fell a bit heavily into the room. It wasn’t a pleasant fact, but it was the reality. Jack was learning more and more about that aspect of this job, and learning if he could handle the darker shades of what it could bring.

“Well, breakfast is ready,” he said, bringing a large plate of eggs and toast onto the counter. Dean tossed him an appreciative half-smile and got up from the couch.

“Thanks, kid,” he said, walking over along with everyone else. He took a moment to pat Jack on the shoulder.

“What do you want to do first: run drills, or help me and Gordon wash the truck?” Dean asked.

Jack looked up with a smile. “Can we run drills first?”

Dean nodded, grinning back at him. “Good answer.”

The rest of the Truck and Squad crews ambled in at both the announcement and the smell of food. And before long, the common room was filled with conversation, good-natured teasing, and shitty coffee all around.   

From his vantage point facing the open door to the driveway, Benny caught sight of a young woman heading towards the double doors with a large tupperware bin in hand. Bonnie the receptionist happened to be coming in at the same time. You asked her a question Benny couldn’t quite hear.

“Dean… Oh, you’re looking for Lieutenant Winchester?” Bonnie asked. Her voice tended to carry. “Right in there, hun.”

“Well, that sure is interesting,” Benny murmured with a smile. He glanced over slyly at his friend. “Heads up, brother.”

Dean looked up from his plate of eggs expectantly. Benny gestured over with his eyes, just as you walked into the firehouse, both cautious and unsure of where you were going.

Dean’s brows raised. He found himself setting down his plate and getting up from the couch before he really knew what he was doing.

You looked exactly how he remembered. Though this time, you weren’t coffee stained in your professional blouse and black pencil skirt. His attention drew briefly downwards to your heels, this time solid black (and even taller than the last pair, damn).

He noticed all the same things he had last time: the shade of your hair, pinned up again with a clip as stray pieces framed your face. The way you carried yourself when you finally saw him, straightening with a subtle confidence in your shoulders, even though you looked a bit nervous. And the pretty curve of your lips when your eyes found his.

“Hey, there,” Dean said. He gave you one of his trademark smiles. “Good to see you again.”

“Uh, hi,” you said, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. “I guess I don’t have to ask if you remember me.”

Dean nodded. “‘Course I do. What can I do for you?”

Your face seemed to freeze up a bit as you looked up at him.

“Oh, um, nothing really. I just wanted to say thank you, again,” you said. And you glanced past him, where the rest of the firehouse members were discreetly watching. “All of you, actually. And my friend told me that firefighters really like food…but, I mean, doesn’t everyone?”

You laughed a little, in a nervous way that made Dean struggle not to smile too much.

“Anyway, I like to bake,” you twittered on, “and I had some time this week after…well, you know what happened. So…I brought this!”

You raised up your tupperware with a smile.

And you were damn adorable, Dean thought. His own smile deepened as he glanced down at the offering, then at you. He took the container and opened the lid, and was honestly surprised at what he saw.

He could’ve sworn these were Bonafede, just-poured-out-of-the-box Girl Scout cookies. Dozens of them. He saw shortbreads (complete with the little wavy lines), Samoa cookies with the coconut flakes, and even what looked like chocolate covered Thin Mints. They also smelled delicious.

“Wow. Thanks, sweetheart,” he said, with genuine warmth. “I’m pretty sure the guys are gonna tear these apart the second I put ‘em down.”

Your face brightened, and Dean noticed how it reached your eyes with a bit of a blush.

“Well, I hope you guys enjoy,” you said. Your hands fiddled with your purse next.

“Heading off to work now?” he asked.

“Yep,” you nodded, with a certain glint in your eye. “I plan on taking the stairs this time.”

Dean raised a brow. “All 22 floors?”

“Gotta get my steps in somehow,” you joked. “Besides, I wouldn’t want to become a repeat offender, make you guys come all the way back across town again.”

“Aw, I wouldn’t mind,” he said, meeting your eyes. And he found that he meant it. In fact, he didn’t think he’d mind if your building’s elevator broke down every damn week.

Your expression shifted towards amusement. “Well, you must be very dedicated to your job.”

“Protect and serve,” Dean teased back. “That’s our motto, you know.”

“Isn’t that for police officers?” you quipped.

He chuckled. “Hey, if the shoe fits.”

“Well…” you considered that with a tilt of your head, more seriously than he expected you to. You met him with a more earnest gaze. “I think it does.”

Right then, Dean had a feeling, deep in his gut, that he needed to know you. He had half a mind to heed his instincts, to take advantage of the signals he thought you were sending him, and ask if he could take you out sometime.

But it was unprofessional here at the firehouse (not that that had stopped him before). He’d been making efforts to curb that kind of behavior for the past few months.

He also remembered the 30 floors of your massive, fancy office building. He considered the price tags that probably came with the admittedly sexy, high-powered corporate look you had going on. Those were probably a lot more zeros than he was used to seeing on his paycheck.

So for once, he didn’t pull the trigger.

“Well, thanks. I really do appreciate that,” Dean replied. His smile then was more sincere, if also more professional. He gestured at the container in his hand. “And on behalf of all the guys, thanks for this too.”

“You’re welcome,” you replied. “I have to go, but…thanks again, Lieutenant Winchester.”

“Ah,” he shook his head, “just call me Dean.”

You agreed by smiling, just a little bit more.

“Dean.”

He nodded back, sending you off with a smile of his own. He forced himself to taper it down after you left, and he had to turn around to meet his friends. Their grins reminded him of piranhas.

“All right. Out with it, you freakin’ jackals.” He waved his free hand in a “bring it on” gesture.

Meg was the first one to burst out laughing. It spearheaded the rest of them, whooping and catcalling and generally being menaces. Even Jack was grinning at his lieutenant’s expense.

Meg got up from her seat and bumped Dean’s shoulder on her way to the kitchen, where she dumped her dishes.

“Thanks again, Lieutenant Winchester,” she mocked in a saccharine sweet voice. Then she lowered it into an exaggerated mimic of his deeper one, “Call me Dean, baby girl. Fucking priceless. You should get your own Hallmark movie.”

Dean rolled his eyes. He’d been prepared for this, but his face was still getting warm.

“Shut up, Meg,” he tossed back. They all had an ongoing Family Guy joke that never failed to make their PIC narrow her eyes. And she did so now, giving him a fake grimace as she left the kitchen.

“All right, kiddos. If you need me, don’t,” she said. “Chuck! Let’s sort the ambo’s inventory.”

“Got it,” her partner nodded. He too got up and placed his dishes in the sink before he took off after Meg.

This left Dean with the rest of the guys, who still gave him knowing smiles as he set your bin of cookies down on the table. He blew out a breath before he returned to the couch and sat down heavily across from Benny and Gordon.

“I never thought I’d see the day that Dean Winchester bitched out,” Gordon remarked.

Once again, Dean rolled his eyes.

“Truly incredible,” Benny added. He shook his head when Dean just crossed his arms. “She was eying you like a pork cutlet, and you just let her walk outta here.”

“We’re in the house, guys. What was I supposed to do?” Dean groused.

Benny and Gordon looked at him like he’d just denounced Led Zeppelin (his favorite band of all time). 

“Get her goddamn number, Winchester,” said Gordon. The man’s lips curved. “Or at least, introduce her to a brother.”

Dean shot him a glance. Gordon Walker was damn good at driving the truck, but he was also known for being a hunter of the ladies himself.   

“She seemed nice,” Jack put his two cents in with a smile. He was standing behind the couch, leaning his elbows on it. Gordon scoffed, nodding his agreement.

“Yeah, with a fat ass too,” he said, sipping his tea. 

Benny reached over and hit his shoulder to shut him up. 

“That’s a lady, Gordon,” he said. Though a suspect smile graced his lips as he glanced at Dean. “A lady with a nice ass.” 

Dean shook his head, but he couldn’t disagree. The first time he met you, he’d been impressed by the way you stood your ground with your asshole boss. Dean thought you were going to chuck that lethal looking heel at the guy. But behind that steely exterior was a kind little softie.

Today, he got your sweet side. It was equal parts sexy and adorable. 

And damn if you didn’t have a nice ass, nice curves, and a nice mouth. 

But your eyes, he thought. Those were nothing short of beautiful. 

About twenty minutes across town, an apartment building was swarmed by police cars. One unit in particular was sealed off with yellow caution tape as a team of officers drifted in and out. 

What a fucked way to die.

Detective John Winchester observed the unnatural angle that the victim—Jerry Stillwell, a certified public accountant—had his throat cut with a jagged weapon.

It hadn’t been clean in the least. And he’d bled out across his work desk and a stack of papers, as well as his desktop computer. He was 45, unmarried, and murdered in his own home in the middle of a Friday afternoon.

The computer wouldn’t turn on, and not because of the blood. It had been wiped with magnetized technology, most likely by the intruder. Though there was no sign of forced entry, according to John’s partner. The murder weapon was missing as well, though it looked like a knife wound.

John leaned over the on-site medical examiner’s shoulder to peer closer at the man’s wounds. Stillwell had most likely been grabbed from behind. So far, the signs pointed to the culprit being someone the victim knew.

They probably took Stillwell by surprise, but he was a large man. If John had to guess, over 250 pounds, unathletic, but still, not easy to overpower. Likely the suspect was a man over 6 feet; strong, and efficient. Though the messiness of the kill made John think this guy took "pride" his work, so to speak.

“Signs of struggle,” said the M.E. “Skin under the fingernails. He fought back, and…huh.”

John’s interest piqued at the man’s shift in tone. “What?”

“Take a look at this.” The M.E. was holding Stillwell’s right hand, palm-up, revealing a small burn on the inside of the wrist. John’s gaze sharpened on the mark.

“Cas, come here,” he said. Across the room, Detective Cas Novak paused in his task of examining the entry points of the apartment to join John at his side. His blue eyes widened a fraction at seeing the burn. It was a symbol of a snake eating its own tail.

“That makes four,” Cas said.

“Yep. We’ve got ourselves a murder cluster,” John said. Cas nodded. He beckoned John to the side, making sure the M.E. was out of earshot before he spoke. “Isn’t it time we brought Sam up to speed on this, at least?”

John’s brows furrowed.

“No,” he said. “Sam’s an ADA. We don’t go to him until we have someone to indict.”

He walked away from Cas, who frowned. John knew damn well that wasn’t what he meant. This was the fourth murder within six months of this nature. The fourth to be branded with the mark of Azazel…a criminal who supposedly disappeared decades ago.

Shortly after November 2, 1983, the day of Mary Winchester’s death.

Seeing Dean again had gone better than you thought it would. It left you feeling light and downright cheerful when you left the firehouse this morning. Unfortunately, the great start to your morning only crumbled when you reached your office.

Now, even at the end of your day, finally back at home and in the familiarity of your kitchen, the tension headache was back.

“Dre, I’m tired. Can’t we do this another night?” you asked.

Your cell phone was balanced between your ear and your shoulder as you counted out your grandfather’s pills, and placed them in each “Monday through Sunday” box in the blue container.

“No, we absolutely cannot. Because today was horrific,” Andréa said. “For me, because my coworker decided to play hookie on the day our top account needed the mockups of their new website. Never mind that she hadn’t even started.”

Pause for an aggravated breath, through which you frowned in sympathy. She’d told you the entire story over lunch today.

“And for you, because Nick once again displayed why he’s a subhuman neanderthal, in spectacular fashion,” she added.

Your grimace deepened at the reminder.

Earlier today, just before a sales meeting you were set to lead, you’d turned away from the conference table to set up the projector. Nick was early for once, making it just him and you in the room.

He’d sat back in his chair and uttered a remark that set the hairs on the back of your neck on end.

“I’ll tell you what, babe. You sure know how to wear a skirt.”

Your back straightened, and slowly you turned. Your face was set in stone, save for a solitary raise of your brow.

“Excuse me?”

Nick’s smirk was lazy as he kicked his feet up on the table. His hand held a tumbler of whiskey. You noted the half empty carafe, which just yesterday had been full and untouched.

“Fucking fantastic legs,” he said, vaguely outlining your shape with his hand. “I applaud you. It’s all very…sexy secretary. Oooh! Sexcretary. Fucking brilliant.”

You gaped, trying to put a clamp on the furious spike in your blood.

“Are you drunk?” you asked incredulously.

He raised his fingers an inch or so apart, scrunching up his face and trying not to laugh.

“Actually nah, not at all,” he bluffed. 

He let his hand fall back into his lap. You shook your head and set down your papers in order to cross your arms.

“Good. Then you’ll hear me clearly when I say, I’m filing a formal complaint with Billie in HR,” you said.

“Whaaat? Why?” he complained. You huffed incredulously.

“For your little comments, which are getting more and more heinous. Not to mention your excessive drinking during company hours.”

Nick pursed his lips. “Christ on a stick. Can’t you take a fucking compliment?”

“No,” you deadpanned. “What I refuse to take is any further sexual harassment. This isn’t the first incident I could disclose, but I’m damn sure you’ll want it to be the last.”

He kicked his feet off the table and slowly stood. You didn’t want to be afraid of this sloppy, frat boy drunken attitude, but a tendril of trepidation still laced down your spine as you took a step back.

“You could do that,” he nodded, tilting his head. “Or, I’ll give your Zimmerman account to Josh, along with your commission.”

You frowned, and shock made your entire body tense. 

“You…you can’t do that!” you exclaimed. Your insides fairly shook with frustration tinged with anger. “I’ll sue you.”

“With what money?” Nick scoffed.

Your brows knitted together then. How the hell would he know anything about your finances?

The man noted your reaction with a nod.

“Yeah, I know all about grammy and gramps. Surgeries, funerals, treatments…” he said. He leaned against the table with one hand, and still he fairly loomed over you.

He wasn't as broad as someone like Dean, but he was tall and lean. His dirty blonde hair was swept to the side, his blue eyes bearing down on you.

“I am this company. If you don’t like it, you can get the fuck out, sweetheart,” he said.

His gaze lowered, roaming your glowering face.

“And good luck getting anywhere else without a reference from one of the biggest corporations in Lawrence, Kansas.”

You sighed. Yeah, you might’ve shed some frankly embarrassing tears in the women’s bathroom after that. You hadn’t even told Andréa the full story, which included the details of his comments, along with his threats.

You didn’t want her to worry. And maybe, more selfishly, you were embarrassed at having to deal with it at all.

Truth be told, you still didn’t know what the hell you were going to do. About Nick, or your job…but somehow, getting drunk at a bar seemed about the last thing you should be doing.

“I need a drink,” Andréa insisted. “Which means you definitely need a drink. And I know exactly where we’re going.”

After a long moment, you leaned your elbows on the kitchen counter and rubbed through the persistent ache in your forehead. Maybe, just this once, you deserved to forget about reality. Just for a little while.

“Fine. Where?” you asked.

“It’s this great bar Meg told me about. The Roadhouse.”

“Ah, the usual suspects,” Ellen drawled at the men who managed to find seats at her bar, next to the rest of their party. The Roadhouse was packed on a Friday night, but she always had room for these two.

Benny and Dean wore similar tired, but pleasant smiles as they greeted their esteemed barkeep.

“What’s it been, Ellen, a whole shift since I’ve seen your delightful face?” Dean said.

Ellen gave him a mocking smile as she poured him his favorite beer on tap. Dean grinned and clapped his younger brother on the shoulder as he sat down. He and Cas had been waiting for a little while.

…Well, maybe longer than a little.

“Hey, dude,” Dean said. Sam perked up from his second beer with pursed lips.

“You know we’ve been waiting on you for like an hour, right?” he said.

“Aw, don’t get your panties in a twist, Sammy,” Dean teased. He nodded his thanks at Ellen when she set his beer in front of him, and a glass of whiskey for Benny. “We had a last-minute call. Some guy just couldn’t wait to start his Happy Hour. Drove his car into the company fountain.”

Sam’s brows raised incredulously. He looked over at Benny for confirmation, and the other man gave a resigned nod.

“Apparently it set the ducks into a tizzy,” he said. “The guy’s fine. Probably gonna get slapped with a DUI.”

Dean smirked and raised a finger at both Sam and Cas. “Duck Guy’s your problem now.”

Cas shook his head and raised his beer to his lips.

“Not my department.”

“Mine either,” Sam scoffed. Both of them worked in homicide cases, just from the differing sides of law and order. In fact, they worked together more often than Dean and Cas did.

Dean looked over at his friend Cas for a moment. He looked like more of a hot mess than usual, with his tie half undone, and a scruffy half-beard covering his face.

“Geez, man. You look like shit,” Dean remarked. “You and Meg fighting again?”

“No,” Cas replied, his brows furrowing. “…Well, yes. But nothing more than her usual insanity. Something about the cat preferring to sleep next to me than to her.”

“Well, that’s not so bad,” Benny said. “My dog don’t like her either.”

“Maybe they can smell that she’s feral,” Dean quipped. Cas sent him a dry look at that.

“She threatened to move out,” he revealed. “Even packed a bag at 3:00 in the morning. I spent two hours unpacking what she was re-packing, all while we argued in our underwear, not sleeping.”

Sam and Dean shared bemused looks, while Benny shook his head into his whiskey.

“So how’d it end up?” Sam asked. Cas sighed and took another long sip of his beer.

“Like it always ends, Sam,” he said, his lips quirking. “With our neighbors calling the precinct to complain, and me, somehow ending up sleeping on the couch for a crime I didn’t commit. If she wants to blame someone, blame the goddamn cat.”

Dean chortled. He brought his beer to his lips, but couldn’t resist a light jab at his best friend first.

“Dude, I love her like a sister, but your girlfriend’s unhinged,” he said.

Cas could only nod. “Most are, I’ve come to find.”

Sam scoffed and shook his head. “Not mine.”

“Yeah, that’s because Eileen doesn’t have to see you more than two minutes at a time,” Dean teased. He and his brother still shared an apartment, and Sam’s job as an Assistant District Attorney wrought demanding hours.

Sam shot his brother a flat look.

“Oh, I’m not taking that from the serial playboy,” he said.

Dean’s brows knitted together.

“All right, calm down,” he said. “I’m not Hugh Hefner.”

“Mr. Hit and Run,” Cas added, a smirk gracing his features.

“Chief ‘No Daddy Issues,’” Benny tipped in, giving his annoyed, green-eyed friend a sly glance. “With a side helping of the Clap.”

Dean’s lips pressed into a line. He leveled a finger at Benny.

“That girl was clean, okay? False alarm,” Dean said. His gaze raised heavenward as he sipped his beer. Thank Christ for that one. “The rash was just carpet burn.”

Sam shook his head and turned to his brother more seriously.

“Bottom line: until you date a woman for more than two weeks—hell, two days at a time—you don’t get to comment on the happily committed,” he said. 

Dean rolled his eyes. He knew his track record with relationships. As in, he didn’t really have a record…but it wasn’t for lack of trying. At least, not for the past few months.

Sam managed to break Dean out of his thoughts by clearing his throat, pushing his empty bottle across the counter.

“All right, speaking of. I gotta go,” he said.

“Aw, why? We just got here. Let me buy you another,” Dean offered.

Sam shot his brother another knowing look. Dean knew it well; it said, if he’d been here on time, they would’ve shared the first two drinks.

“I’m picking up Eileen,” Sam said, grabbing his blazer and fixing the collar when he put it on. “There’s this Latin club she wants to go to.”

Dean raised incredulous brows.

“My brother’s going salsa dancing?”

Sam sighed in exasperation, despite his smile. “Bye, Dean.”

He shot his other two friends a nod.

“See you guys.”

Cas and Benny both saw him off with a subtle raise of their drinks, while Dean just shook his head.

“All right, Samantha,” he called out. Sam didn’t bother to turn around as he raised up a choice finger behind him.

Dean snorted into his drink. “Very mature.”

Benny and Cas shared a wry look. They were relieved when Ellen’s daughter Jo came by, picking up the slack for her mom, who was serving a rowdy group of college kids at a nearby table.

“Hey, guys. Need another round?” Jo asked. She gave them all a familiar smile, but her eyes lingered on Dean. He gave her a more reserved smile back.

“Hey, Jo,” he nodded. “I uh…actually think I’m good right now.”

“Me too,” Cas said. He even stood up and grabbed his trenchcoat in similar fashion as Sam had. The two had paid for their beers before Benny and Dean even got there.

“Aw, not you too,” Dean groused.

“If I don’t make dinner, we run the risk of the apartment going up in flames,” Cas informed him. Dean couldn’t only assume he was talking about Meg. “Despite working with the Fire Department for ten years, the woman can’t manage to boil an egg without supervision.”

Jo raised a brow, but her smile was bemused as she turned to Benny. “Anything for you?”

“Nah, darlin’. I’m good,” he said. But sensing the unspoken request in her eyes when she glanced at Dean, Benny straightened and raised from his seat. “But I’ll be back. Need’a hit the head.”

Dean internally sighed as Benny left him alone at the bar. Or, well, relatively alone. Jo lingered in front of him to wash and dry out a few glasses. The air between them was stiff, and a little awkward.

Dean’s thoughts shifted back to his brother then; while he still couldn’t believe Eileen had wrangled his gangly Sasquatch of a brother into going dancing, Dean was happy for him. Truly and sincerely. Sam deserved having someone who softened him, made him break away from his endless cases and have some fun.

Dean could also admit, if only to himself, that he was maybe a little jealous. Sam had something good with his girl. Something real.

Dean had carpet burn.

“So, how’s studying going?” he asked Jo. He couldn’t stand awkward silences. “Still planning on giving your mom a heart attack when you get into the Police Academy?”

Jo’s blue eyes flicked up to his. She brushed a coil of blond hair behind her ear after she finished drying a glass, and a smile raised the corner of her lips.

“Wouldn’t be the first time I gave her something to yell about,” she quipped. “But since you asked…my exam is in three months.”

“Good,” Dean nodded. “You’ve got time. Study your ass off. Keep up the conditioning routine I gave you, and you’ll be set. Just don’t forget the strength training. Very important.”

“I got it,” she said, this time with a brighter smile. “Some old firefighter gave me some pointers.”

Dean tilted his beer at her accusingly.

“Hey, don’t pin that old shit on me yet. Benny’s got more mileage than I do…”

He considered her then, after briefly looking down at the counter.

“What?” she said.

He kept his lips tight. “Nothin’.”

“No, Dean. What?” Jo pressed. “You want to say something. Say it.”

He blew out a breath and shook his head.  

“Ellen’s not the only one who’s gonna worry about you on the job, that’s all,” he said. Jo flickered at a rueful frown.

“That’s ironic,” she said. “I can handle myself, Dean. Something you so often seem to forget.”

“That’s not fair, and you know it,” he shot back. His hand tightened around his beer.

Jo’s face fell into irritation, mostly to cover up the hurt he saw buried deep behind her eyes. She gave him some relief by glancing away from him.

“And this is why we didn’t work out,” she muttered. Sighing through her nose, her eyes met his again. “You know what I hate, more than anything? People worrying.”

Dean carded his fingers through his hair, his brows knitting together in aggravation.

“Yeah, well, maybe they have good reason to,” he said. He could’ve predicted the way she tightened up. “And if I remember right, you did your fair share of hand-wringing the next time I responded to a fire on the job.”

He knew it was a low blow. But his point was made, and he fully expected the anger in Jo’s tight frown. They’d dated for a few weeks, mostly in secret.

That had been enough for Ellen to blow her top. Not because she had anything against Dean…just his job: at the very same firehouse her late husband had once served.

So Dean had backed off. He’d ultimately felt he had to end it. And clearly, Jo still resented him for it.

Slowly, however, the fire in her eyes dimmed. Her finger tapped on her side of the bar counter.

“You think I don’t worry anymore just because we’re not together?” she asked him. 

Dean didn’t have a good answer for her. So his gaze fell to his nearly empty beer.

But he was even more relieved when Benny finally got back from the bathroom, or wherever he’d fucked off to for the past few minutes.

He did seem to know that he was interrupting a rather tense moment. Seeing as neither Dean nor Jo wanted to break the silence, Benny supposed it fell on him.

He reclaimed his seat and raised a smile up at Jo.

“I think I’m ready for the next round,” he said, glancing at Dean’s soured mood. “Two whiskeys, please, Joanna.”

Jo treated Benny with a half-smile. He was the only one besides her mother who called her Joanna (and got away with it). After one last look at Dean, she reached over for the Jim Beam.

You met Andréa at the bar in your own car, just in case you needed to dip out early to check on Grandpa George. He was happy to see you going out.

“You’re pretty as a doll, sweetheart,” he’d said, patting your cheek after you kissed his goodbye.

The thought made you smile, even though you thought you were dressed casually in your dark wash jeans and blouse. When Andréa met you outside the bar, she nodded in approval.

“Good. I like the hint of sexy,” she said, plucking at the sweetheart neckline of your top. You rolled your eyes and tried to cover up the cleavage a little, but she batted at your hand.

“No, no. Leave your professionalism at work,” she said. “Tonight, you’re going to relax and have some fun.”

It was hard to think about loosening up when you were literally getting belittled and threatened at work…but you supposed she had a point. You always had to be put together. You had to be sharp, because this world wouldn’t hand you anything on a silver platter.

And not to mention, you couldn’t just think about yourself. You also had to provide and take care of your grandfather too. He was the only family you had left, and you were it for him too…

But you took in a slow, deep breath. Tonight, you could have a couple of drinks with your friend. You could just be yourself, with no responsibilities other than not getting too drunk to drive yourself home later.

So with a sigh, you smiled and linked your arm with Andréa as you headed inside the Roadhouse.

It looked kind of divey from the outside, a worn-looking brown building with a faded red sign. But inside it was all dark wood and leather barstools and rows of soft lighting overhead.

There were records displayed on the wall; Prince’s Purple Rain, the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper, and David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust, among others. Boston’s “More Than a Feeling” played on the wall speakers.

There were several tables, both high top and regular four-seaters, as well as a long bar that spanned the far wall, where rows and rows of liquor were showcased. You followed Andréa’s lead to the bar, where you took a seat at the far end and tried to feel like you belonged here. You couldn’t remember the last time you’d gone out to a place like this.

“This is nice,” she leaned over into your ear to say. “Next time my cousin should meet us here. She’s a handful, but I think you’d like her.”

You agreed with a smile. “If she’s anything like you, I think I’m well trained to handle your brand of insanity.”

Andréa leveled you with a playfully mocking look.

“Ah, you’ve got jokes tonight. Okay.” She waved over the blonde bartender.

“Hi, ladies,” she greeted. “I’m Jo. What’re we starting off with tonight?”

Before you could order for yourself, Andréa grabbed your arm and spoke over you.

“Do you have absinthe?” she asked.

Your eyes widened. “What?! I’m not drinking that—”

“Sure do,” Jo replied in amusement.

“Great,” said Andréa. You didn’t like her sly grin. “She’ll have an Aunt Roberta. I’ll have a vodka cranberry.”

“What the hell is an Aunt Roberta?” you asked.

Jo listed the ingredients on her fingers. “A nice molotov of brandy, vodka, gin, blackberry liqueur, and of course, absinthe.”

Jesus Christ. You shot Andréa a glare, even though you were trying to dim your smile.

“Are you trying to chill me out or fucking end me?” you asked.

Andréa smirked. “Whatever it takes.”

You rolled your eyes, but you nodded your agreement. Jo’s smile remained as she went to prepare your drinks. Meanwhile, your eyes wandered as you once again took in your surroundings.

Really is a cool place, you thought. And it was busy without being overbearingly crowded. There were even a few seats between you and the rest of the patrons at the bar. Your gaze drew a path onwards, eventually reaching the other end of the bar.

There you caught sight of red flannel over a black undershirt, familiar broad shoulders, and an even more familiar face. Your eyes widened a fraction as his met yours, gleaming with recognition…and interest.

That slow smile of his was familiar too. It made a lance of heat run down your spine. You gripped the counter, mostly to steady yourself as you let out a breath.

Lieutenant Winchester.

AN: *rubs hands together* It begins. 😏

Lol how'd you like Dean's little moment with the reader at the firehouse? Plus the introduction of the rest of our cast!

(And a possible serial killer on the loose?) Though sorry about Nick. He's a douchecanoe.

Next Time:

Anticipation and nerves coiled together in your lower belly. You turned to your friend, who was already sipping at her vodka cranberry.

“Dre, help me,” you pleaded.

Andréa discreetly followed the path of your gaze, and her brows raised. A smirk curved her lips.

“Oh, babe. You need to help yourself,” she replied.

“I haven’t done that in a while,” you admitted. Your dating life had been sorely lacking, between the demands of your job and taking care of things at home. “I’m gonna say something demented.”

Andréa huffed in amusement.

“So? That’s half the fun,” she said.

Dean Winchester Masterlist

Main Masterlist

Series Tag List (Part 1):

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[askaalaska-vdeppressed]

Tender Love and Care. Alpha!Eskel X Omega!Reader

Master List

*Edited and Revised 06/07/22. Story and character developing chapters added.*

Alaska are you starting another series even though you haven't finished the last one????

Maybe........

There is like zero ABO Eskelxreaders and, seeing as filling niche genres is my specialty (as of posting this still the only person to have written Laufey x reader) I figured I would at least give it a go. How many parts am i planning? Don't know. Do I plan on smut? Honey this aint ABO for show. Is there smut in this chapter? no, in usual fashion I can't write anything short. Anyway onward to the fic!

There was a sort of endearment you had for men that were completely oblivious. Maybe it was the vulnerability they showed in not knowing. Maybe it the breath of fresh air that seeing a man asking for help—in a world where men knew all the answers—brought. Maybe it was just the utterly adorable look on Eskel’s face when he was confused. Yeah, that probably had a lot to do with it. You and the Witcher were quite familiar. Living in the closest village to Kaer Morhen you ran in too many of the Witchers. Running the only library/bookshop/book repair shop meant you ran into two Witchers more than others. Vesemir was the one you were most acquainted with, seeing as he stayed at the keep year-round. He made monthly trips to see you for supplies, to fix books for him or just to chat. You held a soft spot for the old man. His eyes seemed to hold an air of regret, you supposed in a life as long as his he had done many things he regretted, you sure had.

In truth you were not fully human. You were half fae. The daughter of a king and his once swore enemy turned lover. This meant you lived long-- in truth you were probably as old as Vesemir if not older—but still appeared fully human. This however came with it’s quirks. You were still subject to heats. Yes, if being a fae hybrid was not enough you were also an omega. This had made you unique and had drawn quite a few eyes your father was none too thrilled about. That was why you chose to stay here instead of the land of the fairies. You could visit at any time, all it took was a looking glass or a still, clear, pool of water to go back, but it was safer to reside here full time. It also came with the perks of seeing the other Witcher you were acquainted with, Eskel, standing around your shop looking for all intents and purposes, oblivious.

You had resided and run this book shop in this exact building for 50 years (you resided in a different town before that) and not once had Eskel seemed to notice you did not age. Vesemir also never said anything. You wondered if all Witchers were like this. You hoped so. As watching Eskel try to sneak glances at you while supposedly perusing books. All the while you trying to pretend like you didn’t notice, never failed to make you bury your head into a book to hide your smile.

Eskel and you had been flirting back and forth for the past 10 years. You weren’t sure how it started. The time spent with Eskel blurred into one amazing scene in your head. Over time awkward glances turned into loving glances. Jolted unexpected touches turned into lingering of hands over one another as he handed you something. In a blink a decade had passed of casual comments and gestures, and he had been your best friend before that. He knew everything, everything that made you tick or caused you to calm down.

 It excited you, knowing he would come to you every spring and fall like the rising and setting of the sun. However, you wished to progress with him. You were in no rush that was for sure, but it was becoming harder and harder to watch him walk away. Your heats felt like they were becoming lonelier and lonelier. Sure you could probably have some Alpha stay and satisfy you. Both the widower tavernowner and local blacksmith had propositioned you before.  But you didn’t want SOME Alpha. You wanted the Alpha that was too large to fit through the doorway and had to crouch. The one that would enviably knock over a book or two and then profusely apologize for it. Probably thanking all the gods above that he couldn’t blush. The one that would press wildflowers into the pages of the books he borrowed for you to find when he returned them. Yes, you wanted him. And you were intent on having him.

Just like clockwork, as the leaves started to fall, your door clicked open. The smell of Patchouli, lemongrass, and pine mixing with that of paper, leather, and ink. The smell of Eskel in your bookshop was one that enticed you to no end. You wished more than anything you could bottle it. You looked up through you lashes, away from the, frankly large, tomb you were fixing to gaze at Eskel. He narrowly avoided knocking over a stack of books while trying to maintain eye contact. You laughed quietly sitting up and looking at him straight on. His face was worn, the sun ravaged skin that comes with traveling making him even more appealing to you.

He stood before you, content to stand there all day and look at you. It was quite a few moments before he seemed to realize he was before you for a reason and grabbed at the bag from his shoulder.  He cleared his throat.

“I believe these are yours” He said. Extending the four books you had lent him this year.

“Why thank you” you replied mirth slipping into your voice. You placed the books on the floor on top of another small stack next your stool behind your desk.

“What are you working on?” Eskel said, slipping to stand behind the desk next you. On queue knocking over the stack you had just set down.

“fuckin hell” He said under his breath the venom in it lost when paired with the little giggle you gave out.

“I’m fixing this tomb for Vesemir, he’s supposed to come pick it up before winter. But, if you don’t mind staying for a bit.” Eskel perked up at the invitation.

You continued “I almost have it done. Then I can send it up with you instead of having him make the extra trip” You reached over the desk for the needle, working on fixing the outer seam of leather from where it had come undone.

“I recognize this” Eskel said from where he was peering over your shoulder. You hummed at him and you looked up to look at his face. His lips were upturned slightly and his eyes shone. His neck stretched out, leading in a trail to the wide expanse of his shoulders. As he peered over you his body enclosed around you, creating a magnetic, warm wall against your back. You leaned back just barely to get closer. Not enough to touch, just enough to get that much closer to him. Perched on the ledge, not ready to jump.

“Yes” there was an undertone of excitement in his voice  “this is the old sword drill manual. Why on earth would Vesemir want you to restore this?” Confusion marred his face as he continued “All of us have this thing memorized, hell Vesemir himself could probably quote it word for word.”

“Maybe he’s sentimental?” you offered. Recalling how gingerly Vesemir had carried the manual into you.

“Perhaps, but seems a strange thing to be sentimental over.” He dismissed.

“Oh come on” You started playfully. ”You can’t tell me there isn’t one thing in that keep you don’t want to preserve?”

He seemed to ponder it a moment before nodding slowly

“You know there is one thing.”

“what?” you asked. You turned to face him better, an arm resting on the back of the chair.

“A book of poetry from my mother. It’s the only thing I have from when before I took up the path, outside of some vague memories. It’s only the size of a hand or so. I snuck it into the keep in the waistband of my pants and kept it in the straw of my mattress in the bunks.” He looked off in the distance for a moment. Emotion flashing behind his eyes.

“I haven’t read it in years for fear it will completely fall apart” It didn’t seem like he was talking to you. It was more like he was talking to himself, or someone else lost in his memories.  You lifted you hand to his arm, grabbing his attention once more.

“If only you knew someone that fixed books” You said eyes gesturing back and forth between his gaze and the book you were fixing. He laughed a moment.

“I suppose I never thought of that, though I’m afraid if it wouldn’t survive a simple read it certainly couldn’t take traveling down a mountain.” You hated the dejected tone that took over his voice. You were well acquainted with that feeling. The spark of hope that flares in you only to be plunged into the cold water of reality. That feeling. You wouldn’t wish it on anyone, especially not Eskel.  A fire was set under your skin as you spoke.

“Well we’ve got at least a good few weeks before it’s ought to snow. If you’d like I could come up to the keep myself and fix it up there. At least enough to where I could bring it back here and work on it this winter.”

“Really?” The smile reached Eskel’s eyes as he looked down expectantly at you.

“Well I mean I’ll have to miss out on all these costumers” You gestured to the empty shop. Eskel gave out a small chuckle.

“But yes Eskel I would love to fix it for you.”