#honestly his story fell quite short to me. . .maybe that's why

[heshemejoshi]

btw i love seeing tmenos fanart because the way people draw him makes me feel an attachment to him that the game didn't achieve to give me. i find his character very interesting and an awesome departure to like. religious figures in JRPGs (they sure do love their religion things). and it's really funny to imagine his Coerce path action as him repeatedly hitting people with a stick over the head, rather than what I Think is meant to represent a mental battle for information. but there is something that the game just didn't click for me despite the pieces all being there???????? does this make sense

[samobservessonic]

Why do you want to read Sonic the Comic?

The short answer is because it was my intro to the Sonic series as a whole, but I haven’t reread most of it since I was a kid. But I’ll go into a little more detail about that below the readmore, as well as outlining what I will and won’t be reading for this blog

Sonic the Comic issue #80 rewired my brain and changed my life

Now, the first issue of StC that I bought as a kid was #80. I should add a disclaimer here that there was a kid I knew back then who recommended me the comics - she had issues #78 and #79, so I probably at least glimpsed those as well. But #80 was the first issue that I had for myself (and I still have my copy!), so that’s the one that gave me my first impression of Sonic

I’m sure StC fans will know why this issue was a big one and even Sonic fans who have a casual familiarity with StC will probably see Super Sonic on the cover and guess that a lot of stuff happens in this issue… and you’d be right! I’ll save the review for when I actually get to this issue in my reread, but the basic premise is that Sonic goes to visit his friend Porker Lewis on the Floating Island (later known as Angel Island in the games), where the chaos emeralds and master emerald are kept suspended above a giant… hole thing that holds their power (kid me didn’t ask questions, adult me still doesn’t). Sonic fell in this hole and got a full whack of their power, turning him into the evil Super Sonic who’s hellbent on destroying the last person who’d been on Sonic’s mind, who happened to be Amy Rose

The story ends on this cliffhanger and I can pin-point this single image as the reason I got into Sonic in the first place

…Like, look at this!! The art is so cool! What’s going to happen to Amy Rose? Why has Sonic turned into a crazy powerful being who wants to kill her? I have to know more! I have to get the next issue and maybe devote my entire life to this series! Like, Super Sonic looks so powerful and Tails looks terrified of him! But Amy still looks quite calm and collected. Maybe she’s only just noticed Super Sonic zooming into the scene or maybe she’s just composed enough to not be as fearful of him as Tails is. Obviously, even without knowing anything about the series, I could tell that Amy is Sonic’s friend and I want her to be okay. But something about seeing her reaction in this panel made it seem like the “Next Issue: Amy vs Super Sonic!” advertised at the bottom of this page wouldn’t be as one-sided as some might expect it would be And that’s how, on (roughly) 21st June 1996, an 8-year-old who’d just spent their £1.20 pocket-money had their socks blown off by a Sonic comic (Out of curiosity, I looked up where Archie Sonic was at around this time and it was… issue #37! The Knuckles spin-off comics would also be released the month after this. But I wouldn’t know about the existence of either of these until later)

Now, 80 issues into an on-going series is obviously a late point to hop on, but I can honestly say that it never hindered me reading the comics as a kid. Every two weeks I’d get to see Sonic and his friends have adventures and sometimes they’d mention established lore that I might not have known, but it was easy just to write that off as something from an earlier issue and carry on Also, after a certain point, StC started to reprint older stories. Which was both a blessing and a curse, because on one hand it meant that I could catch up with older stories I hadn’t read before, but on the other hand it deprived the issues of newer stories, until the comic would eventually become entirely reprints from issue #185. Even so, I can confidently say that there are probably stories in the first 79 issues of the series that I’ve never read, so I’m looking forward to getting to those on my read-through So, will you stop reading at issue #184? While I intend to read from #1-184, the reprints issues do feature new covers from Richard Elson

Many of which show newer takes on earlier stories, featuring the green-eyed Sonic of the modern era. So while it’s far away now, I’ll most-likely do a post about these covers to conclude my read-through. Although man, looking at #185’s cover in particular puts me right back into being there as a kid, expecting to see new stories, only to open the comic and get entirely reprints…

Will you be reading the non-Sonic stories?

Early on in its run, StC featured stories from other SEGA titles of the time, before committing to being entirely about Sonic. While not to diminish the merits of these stories, I just don’t have the same familiarity with most of their source material that I do for Sonic, so I won’t be reading them. The exceptions being probably the Ecco stories (because I did play Ecco as a kid) and Decap Attack, because Decap Attack was still running after I started reading the comic and I remember enjoying it. But I won’t be blogging about either of these in the same way that I will be the Sonic comics themselves, so you won’t have to skim past posts about loads of other series to get to the Sonic stuff

What about the Sonic spin-offs?

I will absolutely be reading these once I find or make a good reading-order that slots them into their proper place. The above summer ‘96 special was also one of my first StC issues and I remember it fondly

What about the Captain Plunder stories?

Yep! Captain Plunder exists in Sonic’s universe and I enjoyed his standalone stories as a kid, so I’ll be including him in my reread Anything else?

For a time, StC included game reviews and ofc they also had a fanmail and fan art section, like Archie and IDW. For the most part, I’ll only be including small bits of these that I find interesting or relevant, but I won’t be talking about them wholesale. Though I’m sure that a Sonic comic’s reviews of Sonic games will be worth a look at

[yuseirra]

Onk spoilers(166)!!

Found out what happens in the last chapter!!

Oh seriously though??? It was the worst in a lot of ways but actually, I'm SO RELIEVED because

It explains literally nothing... There is NOTHING at all to take away. I really can believe in what I theorized with so wholeheartedly. That really IS the best way to make things work. I'm going to attach drawings to go with it and upload it on pixiv with the explanation because, it DOES make everything come together without even having to change a single thing. Believe me, I really think that should be the way, maybe the ONLY way to make things ACTUALLY WORK.

gosh I was prepping for the WORST of the WORST and it's helped. It's so bad but I can still draw. I can still theorize if it's like this but what is the point of doing that for a series that's been completed huh????

This is so half-baked;;;extremely so...

No but you can't write like this unless you just ditched the writing. Nothing is explained. Oh wow. Thank goodness I can still draw hikaai, I really DON'T THINK HIKARU HARMED AI. HE MUST HAVE JUST TRIED TO SEND A BOUQUET. What the heck though??? Shouldn't they explain the truth??? Shouldn't they really.. Reveal what happened regarding him and Ai before the series go? What if he REALLY DIDN'T DO ANYTHING? Do I HAVE to believe Aqua's thoughts that Kamiki manipulated Ryosuke to kill Ai by showing him a toothbrush that she's left in his apartment? How can Ryosuke's actions be justified?? And how IS that manipulation? How can you be so triggered over a freaking toothbrush. It would NOT have had ANY EFFECT on normal people. Ai even drew a cute heart next to her name, could be out of habit but considering how she is afraid of revealing herself and opening up to people, I figure she was quite happy and relaxed when she was around with Hikaru you know. They WERE loving.

What I wrote earlier EXPLAINS EVERYTHING. About how the star eyes work and came to be, what Hikaru had been doing and why he was so attached to Ai and was so desperate on seeing her again, how Ai is a "star", the idea of gods and missions and what each twins had as their mission, it also explains how Ruby "shines" brighter than anyone, the part about wishes, why Aqua had to take those extreme measures and give up his all, how Hikaru managed to do all these weird stuff and why people kept dying around him, and it also predicted the ending pretty well. That theory I have CAN explain everything in a very coherent sense. It makes everything add up together. That HAS to be it. It really just... Only adds to what this whole story is. It can't be otherwise. Because nothing is explained.

But the writers have to...take responsibility for their work, this is really like a normal ending in a video game that you get when you fail to collect all the hidden items and all. Can't they draw out a true ending??? It really seems like everyone failed in this particular timeline we're seeing as a comic. Since they stated everything is fiction, can't there be multiple endings then?? Aqua took the wrong route. I honestly.. See this piece being so. He should have followed his mom's wishes(grow up healthy, help the dad) idk, collect more items. This really DOES feel like a bad ending of a video game but surprise!!!

It's not the worst for me because we still don't know what the heck Hikaru is and I sincerely believe he really is a noble god who fell after being tainted by the industry. And we STILL don't know if he is the one responsible for Ai's death so I might as well believe him because WHY THE HELL WOULD HE GO AFTER HIS ONLY LOVE. HE WAS SO PASSIVE. I studied psychology that guy can't do it. If he were to get back at her he would have done it not so short after the moment she left him, why wait four years and...attack her when she called him up to come visit their children who strikingly resemble both him and his beloved Ai. They look so much like him too... He said himself he has paternal feelings and I believe that!! Because why wouldn't he, they take after him and the one he loves so much.. Wouldn't THAT be so precious?

And the fact that Ai really loved Hikaru didn't get refuted so that's a solid fact. Even if they add something in the final volume, there's no way they're going to overturn it so my interpretations of her feelings to him and him towards her are SAFE. Thank goodness.

But there's still NOTHING to take away from. In fact, it makes the message even worse;; not going to say much but it even negates this idea that was set forth in the recent chapter as well?? So what are they trying to say with this piece?

Oh but at least my favorite characters are SAFE from the author's hands!!! Nothing is worse in terms of them. In that case, I can feel free. I can draw them. I had no idea that they wouldn't even make a single appearance in the final chapter but that may be better than showing up and being horrible portrayals, at least what they had with each other's set in stone. That's good news. See? I can hope! My chest is actually lifted because it isn't too different from what I thought would be. The 4 recent chapters(I'm being so generous here) have NOTHING to offer. It doesn't have a point.

Hikaru drowning, let's say, that part can be actually from the myths if he's the embodiment if Sarutahiko. I care for him but I can see how that is. Everything after that point though? Oh, I can draw out something while maintaining the themes and message while making Aqua live and Ruby "shine" bright as an idol as "Amaterasu". I'm sure many artists will be willing to as well.

They have to get back to these ideas about gods and missions, why aren't they doing that? It really IS what that can make this story come together so why don't they do it?? Why were those things there? I really think that must have been it!! It explains everything!! It works!!

[marsbabysblog]

Davy Jones reaction to you cussing

for @inner-sparkle-inner-writings

Davy Jones x fem!reader 

Warnings: Swearing (obvi) 

Request

Davy Jones x reader in which the reader screws something up and on the job and accidentally cussed her-self our for it, and being the first time Davy hears her swear and reacting to it?

____________________________________________

It was quite a normal day

Everybody was at their own station preparing for the storm up ahead. Davy Jones didn’t fear shit, a storm was a small splinter in his goal, it didn’t effect their route. Well at least that was for the half fish half people…for Y/n it was a different story.

Being completely human and on the shorter side of everyone else, storms were like a living nightmare in the ocean. All the commotion and crew flailing around made Y/n feel sick. While everyone else could hold their ropes in place, Y/n would literally fly with the wind. It was difficult and no body seemed to care.

Finally the waves crashed down, the rain fell hard, and the thunder roared louder than the damn canons. Y/n’s hair was soaked and kept blowing in her face. Her clothes were wet and were very uncomfortable to wear. But the worst thing of all was every man (if you could even call them that at this point) was fighting about what direction they should be going. Arguing turned into a screaming match which turned into a fist fight. Someone lost their aim and punched Y/n right in the face.

“Oh my fucking god!” Y/n shouted louder than the commotion around her. Loud enough to make everyone stop what they were doing.

Y/n was sweet, honestly she was a kind soul. Pirates weren’t the type to change their ways for a woman but with Y/n things were different. Most of the crew actually respected her, or at least they were nicer. Maybe it was because they wanted to get in her pants but that didn’t matter, as long as no one really messed with her she didn’t care. But this was it. This was her final straw. She had finally snapped.

“We are going North, that is the right fucking way! I swear to god you men are bunch of dumbasses!”

The crew looked at her in shock, then they looked at their Captain, Davy Jones.

He looked even more shocked then them. He opened his mouth but closed it immediately, he was speechless. How could such a “fragile” lady say such vulgar things. And not just any lady, how could Y/n swear? He didn’t think it was possible.

“And now that I’m on that subject,” Y/n continued, “I am teaching you all how to fucking shower. I tried my best to endure the smell of shit but it had gotten way too much!” She was on a roll her insults and her opinion. She already started so why stop now?

After at least 10 minutes of ranting, Jones interrupted her.

“Y/n that’s enough.” He tried to sound more demanding but honestly he sounded a bit scared. “Come with me…” He grabbed her arm and walked her into his quarters.

“…are you okay?” It was blunt but he sounded genuine. “Are you on your…um…lady days?” he whispered.

Y/n cupped her own face in her hands and screamed into them.

“No…” she said bringing her eyes back up to meet his, “simply angry that was all but i feel much better to get that off my chest.” She smiled. He looked down right terrified.

“Are you sure your okay?” How does this women start off as the nicest little thing ever, start swearing up a storm, scream, and then smile like normal…

“Mhm!”

“…i don’t think i’ll ever quite understand you…”

____________________________________________

Ahhhh! I finally finished my first request!!! This was so fun to write 😭 I know i changed some things around in the fan-fiction but i hope you still like it!

More serious writings are coming soon, I just wanted to start off with a short little comedy! I hoped you enjoyed and tysm for the request! Feel free to leave any notes! Love yaaa<333

-marsswann

[mercillery]

ok can we have a part 3 for yandere zenon x cheater reader? im so totally absorbed in this scenario. For part 3, zenon somehow finds out that dante forced himself to reader and reader chan was loyal and faithful all this time. ((but now after the isolation and abuse reader chan went through [that she didn’t deserve ofc], she does not harbour any sort of feelings for zenon anymore. basically she’s now numb and emotionally unavailable)) zenon also finds out that dante ordered his dark disciples to twist the what truly happened which caused to put all the blame on reader chan. basically dante being dante and spreading his evilness. what would happen now that everything has been uncovered?

BTW I REALLY LOVE YOUR WRITINGS I HOPE YOU ARE DOING WELL. THANKS SO MUCH 💝💕🎀

WARNINGS: FEMALE READER + YANDERE THEMES + DANTE SUCKS + NOT PROOFREAD

NOTES: I honestly did not think I’d ever get to part 3 with this. Sorry this was so short, anon. And thank you for your kind words, I hope you’re doing well too 🫂🩷🩷🩷

I read this request and did the biggest 😮 of my life

Okay, so imagine Zenon, standing in the dim, ominous corridors of the Spade Kingdom’s fortress, a place so lacking in interior design you’d think they hired someone who exclusively works with shades of "doom" and "gloom." He’s brooding as usual, probably wondering why they ran out of skull wallpaper for the meeting room. And then—boom—news drops like the world’s most dramatic mic: Dante had forced himself on you, and you, the loyal soul that you were, got framed, slandered, and thrown under the metaphorical bus while Zenon fell for the whole twisted story like it was some top-tier villain plot.

How does Zenon find out? Picture this: A Dark Disciple, sweating like they're in a sauna, stumbles in, eyes darting like they just got caught in a game of "Who Told Zenon the Truth First?" Maybe this Disciple is one of those rare ones who took a philosophy course once and grew a conscience. Or maybe Zenon overhears a whispered conversation while passing by, because let's face it, his ears seem to pick up everything—he’s like the NSA of the Spade Kingdom, minus the Wi-Fi.

The moment the pieces click into place, the atmosphere drops about 20 degrees. Everyone nearby suddenly finds a very urgent task to do elsewhere. Dante’s penchant for turning every situation into a melodramatic power play has finally caught up with him. He had you cornered, used his twisted charisma and brute force to strip away your peace, and then had the audacity to spin lies thick enough to strangle your truth. Zenon never fancied himself an emotional man, but realizing you bore this cruelty alone ignites something he can't quite name but feels suspiciously like...regret? Rage? Maybe even shame? Oh, we’re venturing into feelings territory, and Zenon didn’t sign up for this emotional rodeo.

Enter Zenon’s response: the guy's ice-cold exterior shatters. Anger seethes through him in waves so palpable you could surf on them. He doesn’t yell—Zenon isn’t exactly a karaoke enthusiast—but his silence becomes so sharp that even the bravest Dark Disciple in the room considers updating their will. In his head, he’s calculating: How do you punish a brother who holds all the arrogance of a peacock that just discovered mirrors?

But here’s the kicker: as he processes this, he knows how numb you've become—how the light in your eyes that once flickered even in darkness now looks like someone turned the “Open” sign of your soul to “Closed.” And it hits him in a way that no bone magic ever could. The one person who stayed true, who endured his coldness and the insanity of being tied to him, was left shattered and empty because he couldn’t see through Dante’s lies.

And let’s not forget, Zenon is not a talk-it-out kind of guy. He’s more of a “this ends with me breaking several laws of nature and decorum” type. Once the truth settles, and he stands before you in that isolation chamber he should have burned down ages ago, there’s a new weight in his stare. No words will fix the cavern between you now, and he knows it. You’re a shell of who you were, and Zenon’s about to realize that revenge on Dante isn’t just personal; it’s poetic justice wrapped in a tragic bow. And Dante? Well, let’s just say his evil cocktail is about to become the least of his problems.

The bloodlust that ignites in Zenon when he finally pieces together what happened isn’t just your run-of-the-mill rage—it’s the kind of fury that could power a medieval war machine. And the best part? This time, it’s not directed at you; no, you’re the one thing in this twisted story he doesn’t blame. All that anger has one target, and it’s wearing Dante’s smirking face. The fact that it’s his brother who crossed the line? It doesn’t matter. Family dinners were awkward enough before this, but now, they might as well be battlegrounds.

He should’ve seen it coming, really. That nagging thought needles at him like a thorn he can’t pull out. A part of him knew Dante might one day take an interest in you—it’s Dante, after all, a man who considers “personal boundaries” a foreign concept, especially when it comes to beautiful women. But Zenon thought he had kept a tight watch on you, sure that the shadows of his vigilance were enough to protect you. Turns out, even shadows have blind spots, and Dante knew exactly how to slither into them.

And as that anger festers, Zenon’s usually ice-cold logic burns with a single focus: Dante. Dante, who knew you were Zenon’s, who saw that invisible line in the sand and not only crossed it but danced on it. Dante, who left you a shell, drained of feelings, left with nothing but numbness where there used to be warmth and hope. Zenon knows you aren’t to blame. Not for this. Not for anything. The thought anchors him even as the violent storm inside threatens to break him. You were his; you were true and faithful, even when he was too cold, too distant to see the truth.

The million-dollar question: what now? What’s Zenon’s next move, and what kind of trouble has Dante unknowingly signed up for? Well, let's just say the Zogratis family reunion is about to get an upgrade—from “tense” to “bloodbath, guest-starring the Grim Reaper.” Listen, Zenon’s been holding it together with that controlled, cold demeanor of his, but finding out what Dante did to you?

Dante might have a reputation as the charming, ego-fueled ladies’ man of the Spade Kingdom, but he messed up—big time. He should’ve known better than to touch you, Zenon’s one precious, untainted thing in a world full of corruption. Zenon isn’t impulsive, no; he’s meticulous. He’s the guy who plots three steps ahead even when he’s playing chess against himself. But with this revelation, his obsessive tendencies are cranked up so high that the needle might as well snap off the dial.

And don’t get it twisted: this isn’t a rage-fueled rampage. Zenon’s not going to storm down the hall, screaming like some low-level henchman caught in a tantrum. This is a hunt, a cold, methodical execution where Dante is the prey, and Zenon is Death with a bone to pick. Because in Zenon’s world, harming you is a cardinal sin, punishable by, well... death. Family ties? Irrelevant. Brotherly bonds? Not like that ever existed in the first place. Dante didn’t just cross a line; he set the whole dang map on fire.

Don’t think Zenon is going to play fair or drag this out. He’s not the “monologue and let the bad guy escape” type. He’s the “I’m going to remove you from existence before you even register what’s happening” type. Dante is powerful, sure, but Zenon’s on a mission fueled by obsession, betrayal, and a smoldering, controlled fury. If you’re worried Zenon might not win this? Don’t be. Dante’s facing a man who’s decided that brother or not, you messed with his world. And Zenon doesn’t just plan for victory—he guarantees it.

Zenon’s attacks are like clockwork: precise, merciless, and unforgiving. Each blow he lands isn’t just a strike—it’s a declaration of betrayal avenged, a reminder to Dante of just how far he crossed the line. Zenon doesn’t waste his breath on dramatic speeches or curses. No, his silence is deafening, a silent promise that words would only cheapen what he intends to do. The only sound between them is the sharp clash of their power, punctuated by the chilling realization that Zenon isn’t here for a fight; he’s here for an execution.

Dante, in his typical fashion, tries to laugh it off, throwing taunts like they’re worth more than the air he’s wasting. But Zenon? He doesn’t flinch, doesn’t react. Dante’s bravado falls flat, lost in the shadow of Zenon’s ice-cold, calculating expression. A face so still, so controlled, it could freeze the blood of anyone foolish enough to witness the carnage. The fight itself is brutal, a display of Zenon’s sheer depth of possessiveness and hatred, honed to a deadly edge. When the final blow comes, it’s swift and final, a moment so silent it almost echoes.

He emerges victorious, a grim conqueror of a battle that wasn’t just personal—it was sacred. But here’s the thing: victory doesn’t taste like anything at all. Not when he returns to you and finds your eyes as distant and cold as the deepest, most unfeeling void.

The sight of you, numb to the core, eats at Zenon in ways no physical wound ever could. He hides it well, of course. That’s what he does best—keeping his pain locked up so tight it would take a miracle to crack him open. But the reality is, seeing you so lost, so detached, shatters whatever satisfaction he could have drawn from avenging you. He knows he can’t force a reaction; demanding you to feel again would only be another cruelty added to the list of things you never deserved. So, he waits, resigned to the idea that your trust, your warmth, might never come back to him. That he might have won the battle, but lost the war for your heart.

But Zenon is nothing if not relentless. The yandere in him, that twisted, obsessive part, doesn’t mind waiting. If all he can do is dedicate his life to protecting you from the distance, even if you stay cold and unreachable forever, then so be it. He will guard you, care for you, and devote himself to you, even if it means living with the torment of knowing that redemption is out of reach. Because for Zenon, loving you—even from afar—is a battle he’ll keep fighting, whether or not you ever feel again.

Although you’re now as emotionally numb as a frozen fish stick, Zenon’s trust in you skyrockets. Why? Because nothing screams loyalty louder than surviving Dante’s twisted schemes while staying faithful to the guy who basically invented stone-cold silence as a personality trait. So congrats—if Zenon’s trust was a vault before, it’s now a fortress with “No Trespassing” signs aimed at everyone except you. Gone are the days of cold punishments and harsh treatment. Turns out, finding out that your brother is the villain of the century makes Zenon reevaluate his methods faster than you can say, “Therapy, maybe?”

Now, Zenon knows you’re numb, probably for good, but that doesn’t mean he’s planning to make it worse. In fact, punishing you is out of the question now. He won’t say it—because if Zenon admitting fault out loud isn’t the eighth wonder of the world, I don’t know what is—but he realizes his old ways of dealing with his feelings won’t exactly be much to help you feel again, you know?

So he tries to reach out. Tries being the keyword here. He approaches cautiously, as if you’re a wild animal that might bolt, or worse, give him that blank, thousand-yard stare. Zenon doesn’t do verbal apologies—why use words when glaring and brooding have always worked just fine? Instead, he goes for subtle actions. He starts taking care of you like a silent, overbearing butler, appearing out of nowhere to make sure you’re fed, warm, and alive. You didn’t ask for any of this and definitely don’t react, but that doesn’t stop him.

Need a blanket? It’s already on you before you even shiver. Water? Magically appears on your nightstand, as if hydration is suddenly Zenon’s personal crusade. He watches over you with a sort of quiet devotion that would be almost romantic if it weren’t so intensely unsettling. But, hey, romantic or not, he’s attentive. Is he creepy? Maybe. But he’s there, and he’s not going anywhere. Even if all he’s met with are your blank stares and silence, Zenon is prepared to keep trying, his version of an apology more action-based than a dozen heartfelt “I’m sorries” ever could be. Because while you might be numb, he’s going to make sure you’re not alone in that.

If Zenon was obsessed before, now it’s like he’s taken his fixation and turned it into a full-time job—complete with unpaid overtime and zero vacation days. He devotes himself to silent acts of penance, the kind that would make a monk say, “Take a day off, man.” He sits by your side, sometimes for hours, not saying a word, his usually cold eyes softer but more haunted, as if hoping his mere presence can stitch up the deep wounds that words can’t touch. It’s like he’s trying to will the shattered pieces of your spirit back together, one silent moment at a time.

Zenon’s aware that what Dante did left emotional scars so deep that even time itself might throw up its hands and say, “Sorry, this one’s beyond me.” But that doesn’t stop him. No, Zenon becomes obsessed with coaxing even the tiniest spark of emotion from you. A flinch, a sigh, even a glance that doesn’t feel like it’s staring straight through him—it would all mean progress to him. It’s an all-consuming mission, and he approaches it with the same deadly focus he uses in battle, only now, his enemy isn’t a person; it’s the void that’s swallowed you whole.

If it takes the rest of his life, so be it. Zenon’s not exactly the type to quit, and the idea of you staying numb, an unresponsive shell of the person you once were, gnaws at him—surprisingly. So he keeps trying, meticulously and obsessively. Because somewhere in the depths of his fractured, intense devotion, he believes that if anyone can reach you again, it’s him. And if it means spending the rest of his life searching for that lost light in your eyes? Well, Zenon figures he’s got time. Plenty of it. After all, he’s already given you his heart—what’s a lifetime in comparison?

[cherrylight]

hi! this is going to be a long post about my hs self insert ^_^ + with additional lore! uh, i talk as if she's a separate person, hope that's okay!

cred for sprites & picrew(s): sprite & picrew

the rest under cut !

before, hs ashley basically just looked like this !

(there's two variants because i had many ideas)

her name is actually ashley property! and it has stayed because i love it so much ^_^

i actually REALLY love the hs sprite(s) of her so very much but i want to redo it, i just been very forgetful lately and haven't really decided to redo her sprite unfortunately >_<

she does actually look nearly similar to her sprite, but there are parts that i really want to rework and sort of redo; for instance the fact she's in all black! that is NOT what she wears all the time i assure you!

another thing about the old ver of hs ashley is the fact that i decided to create a cameo guardian for her to fit the criteria, i guess. his name was jax! he was purely made because i get really interested in classpects. although, he's not really fully fledged out or anything. a part of me doesn't even want to add him in the new version of ashley actually ^^;;

another thing about this version is the fact she has literal NO LORE WHATSOEVER. in all honesty, i just could NEVER THINK OF LORE FOR HER. so she got nothing. she was just. kind of there. and that was that. and nothing else.

to be completely honest with you, she was plain even if i absolutely adored her more than anything on this planet ...

now for the new and improve ashley ^_^

^^^ ISN'T SHE SO PRETTY GUYS I LOVE HER SO MUCH

new and improve ashley my love !!!! she makes me so happy :D

i'm still working on a lot of things with this version of her ! but i'm trying to stray away from like the entire ...... typical stuff, but it's still pretty much with her as i didn't take it away or anything, just focusing more on the game stuff makes ME upset because i only focus on that and yadda yadda whatever!

this time, i actually have lore and how she ends up with everyone. but because i don't follow the comic anymore or really anything, a lot of it is my interpretation (and the fact the game doesn't really "exist" but does exist because of them having "powers"? i guess? i can probably talk about it in a different post but yeah! i just don't care about the game or the rest of the characters sorry)

so, the lore for ashley on how she got in the beta/alpha kids' timeline is this:

ashley's timeline somehow got corrupted. a lot of that is purely unknown and she doesn't even know *why* her timeline got corrupted. but she ends up in their timeline, kind of just appearing from thin air. quite literally.

although she basically FELL FROM THE SKY. long story short: she is unable to get back to her timeline. a part of me thinks that she was SUPPOSED to be in the beta/alpha timeline, but something happened for an error to occur, thus her being in the null timeline.

if that's too much for you, just know that she's unable to get back to her timeline and is stuck in the timeline she's quote on quote "supposed" to be in.

because of this happening, she doesn't know if her own family is alive or well, or they'll appear in this timeline—i'll call it the OG timeline, AKA original timeline (as it's canon and so forth. sorry for the technicalities). however, i have no ideas for her family yet, maybe i'll add jax but i also highly doubt it. i don't know! don't want to add too much to my plate, so that's in the backburner for the time being!

knowing this information, ashley being in a completely new place—new timeline—she is alone, like completely so alone and the only thing she sees is like four people. which as much as she's already wary of her surroundings and already hypervigilant on where she is, she does at the very go over to them; or they go over to her.

won't get into HUGE details on that! but i absolutely adore the betas and she will be honestly afraid to even get to close to them. i had the thought of her being this fearful to get close to people because of her ending up in the og timeline, being alone, and without really any familiar faces to see. ashley has this sort of thought of if she gets close to them, something bad would happen to *them* and she doesn't want that! considering that they seemed to offer hospitality and are cordial with her (well, for the most part, most of them seem friendly. even if using the term friendly is a stretch on talking on some), she would feel awful if something bad happened to them at her expense.

in all honesty, i didn't want her to just be a self insert for dave tbh... i want her to have her own like background and story, and lore, and relationships with the other characters! i also like doing silly scenarios with the other characters with her! it's very fun ^_^

as well as that, some other information that may be crucial later: her handle is: poltergeistBlossom, her hex colour is #FF6DC6

[pomefioredove]

im not sure if the 500 followers event/matchup includes anon asks but i'll try. (if you can maybe both platonic and romantic??)

i usually prefer they/them pronouns but im more generally gender fluid. im also asexual (not aromantic so i do get romantic feelings but its just harder for me to fall in love or develop a crush on someone). im in my early twenties (so definitely older than the main cast). im incredibly short (4"11/149cm but i think i've grown but not entirely sure how many). so i am quite insecure about my height especially when you're the shortest of the family. my main hobby is writing and reading. but im currently on writer's block so i haven't written anything longer than a chapter these past few months because of college. i also play games quite a lot but nothing like fps or any horror games.

im usually quiet when meeting with new people and once i get comfortable, i can get chaotic and i let out a couple of dark humor jokes here and there. and i prefer to stay indoors rather than outdoors. however, i wouldn't mind going out with people that i actually like/am close with. also, i tend to curse a lot and a bit tomboyish. i can also get a bit harsh with my words if i dont think on what i say and just say it outright.

also, dont rush and take your time. i know how stressful writing can be at times so there's no pressure in answering this one. thank you!

I match you with 𝐋���𝐨𝐧𝐚 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫 (romantic)

okay hear me out.

The First Impression:

"Not my circus, not my monkeys" Leona could not be bothered to take on more than he already has to, and that includes meeting new people. The first time you run into each other, it doesn't exactly leave a lasting impression. And the second time, the third... the fourth time you end up in the same place at the same time, you're basically as close as you can get to friends.

Why He Fell:

Honestly? It was your sense of humor.

Leona just... wasn't expecting it. For someone who seems like a prey animal, quiet and meek, hearing such a morbid joke coming from your mouth catches him off guard. It takes a lot of wit to come up with something like that, after all. You actually manage to make him laugh. You might as well be married at that point.

Obviously, there's more to you than meets the eye, and Leona suddenly doesn't mind hanging out with you more often.

The Relationship:

He ends up sticking to you like glue. If he's going to be stuck at this lousy school, he may as well surround himself with people he tolerates, right?

Well, he more than tolerates you. He likes you. (But good luck trying to get him to admit that out loud).

Over time, Leona finds himself caring more and more about you as a person. Your interests, your likes and dislikes, your home life... suddenly, he has this whole catalogue of information about you and he doesn't know what to do with it. So, he just hangs out with you.

Every little detail, he likes. You want to stay in? No problem, so does he. Your tomboyish tendencies? Perfect, he's glad you're not fussy. He convinces you to tell him one of your stories "to fall asleep to", but he ends up staying awake 'til the end.

Leona is oddly sensitive about your feelings, too. Once he finds out you're insecure of your height because of your family, he never brings it up again- and you can be sure that anyone who does is in for it.

Short Platonic Blurb w/Tweels

since you asked! I'm trying to limit this to one matchup per person, but I'm glad to do a brief platonic summary. I just think both Jade and Floyd would be enamored with your sense of humor and chaos, they would find it fascinating. If you were feeling insecure about your height, Floyd would offer to let you sit on his shoulders for funsies. They're the friends who drag you outside (once you're comfortable with them ofc)

[omgpoindexter]

what are you top 5 fave nurseydex fics you've read? (a girl is needing recs)

oh yay!!! first of all i have to admit that over the years i've dipped in and out of omgcp tumblr and therefore have been very bad at staying up to date, so most of these are quite old. they are my favourites for a reason, however! also i did 6 not 5 lol <3

to be alone with you by @alocalband Will and Derek spend their junior year learning how to live together, learning how to be friends, and, eventually, figuring out that they'd like to be more.

i actually only read this fic recently, but it’s instantly one of my new faves. it is SO well written, the characterisations of every single character are perfect, and the story is so beautiful. i’ve reread it a few times already!

in so many words also by alocalband Derek writes a short story. That's his first mistake. His second is getting it published.

idk why but i absolutely live for fics where everyone on the outside knows what nursey and dex are up to except for them, and this one is really good at it. the ‘derek “nursey” nurse is unchill’ tag is very accurate in this case.

in front of the same small bathroom mirror by @geniusorinsanity It's not surprising that sharing a room changes things, but neither of them expect the most important conversations in their strange, awkward friendship to happen in their shared bathroom. (Or: five conversations Dex and Nursey have in a shared bathroom, and one in bed.)

i absolutely adore this story. dex and nursey learning to coexist and care for each other is so special to me and this fic captures it perfectly. honestly, anything by shelly is going to be a must-read, but this one is really really wonderful.

it drops with the gravity of rain also by geniusorinsanity It happens like this: “I don’t--this is a bad idea,” Dex says, his lips still tingling, his hands shaking on Nursey’s hips where he’s shoved him away. “This is a really bad idea, Nurse. I can’t--We can’t do this.” And there’s hurt in Nursey’s eyes and his bottom lip is swollen from Dex’s teeth, but he says, “Okay.” And then, “It’s chill, Dex. Just friends, then.” It happens like this: “Actually,” Nursey says, talking more to his granola than to them, “I kind of have a date.” It happens like this: When Nursey calls, Dex almost doesn’t pick up the phone.

another wonderful fic by shelly - i reread this one all the time. it’s such a lovely character study of dex and it tackles the subject matter so well. content warnings in the end notes.

things you said by @quidhitch / @maangoes “Awww, looks like Dex appreciates a lady in uniform,” Nursey teases, tucking his feet a little further beneath Dex’s thighs. “You have a thing with the head cheerleader back in high school Dexy? Hold her pom poms and kiss her whatnot?” Dex seems to be contemplating something, and Nursey figures it’s one of his lame clapbacks like your mom’s a pom pom. He brings the bottle to his mouth, smiling around the lip of it. “Actually, I’m more of a captain of the football team kinda guy.” Nursey chokes on his beer.

i always come back to this one. it’s just so sweet and funny. i remember reading it years ago and it has stuck with me all this time.

today the sun comes in by @playedwright Will looks beautiful, Derek thinks, and it isn’t fair. Time has done nothing to lessen the extent of his feelings, either. Derek realizes a little too late exactly why he was nervous. It has been four years, three months, and five days since they graduated from Samwell, and Derek is finally facing the undeniable fact that at some time during his college years, he fell in love with William J. Poindexter and never got around to falling out of it.

this is one of those special fics that stays with you. i have never been to seattle, but this story made me homesick for the city. mars is such a gorgeous writer and this fic is a perfect example of it! (also i miss u mars!!!)

this was fun, i've missed reccing fics! i hope i could be useful! maybe i'll do some more recent ones if I manage to keep up to date with the nurseydex tag <3

[abyss-presence]

Note: headcanoned to hell; Yellow cat is called Nael and uses he/they; 3rd person pov; can be interpreted as both romantic and platonic (same goes for this entire "story"); pretty short 🤷

@aniflowers

The Promised Day

The previous day was a roller-coaster of emotions and feelings. And yet, today Nael and Leshy both woke up feeling quite refreshed.

After that talk in the medical bay, Leshy and Nael spent some more time together, simply hanging around the cult grounds and chatting some more. When night has fallen upon them, they were the last to go to bed, since they just couldn't get enough of one another.

The Leader has thoughtfully placed their beds together, so the two of them held hands throughout the night until they eventually fell into a deep slumber (this time without nightmares on Leshy's side).

It was still quite early in the morning, the Lamb still hasn't returned and the rest of the cult was still sleeping peacefully. Rain adorned the dark sky up above, watering the farms Glorious Leader has set up around this piece of land.

Leshy turns his head upwards, taking in the wonderful scent of the humid grass and Camellia flowers that fills the air.

"It's so... quiet. I like it."

"Never thought the God of Chaos would love the peace and quiet," Nael said with a smirk as he tugged Leshy towards the Temple. They hid beneath its roof, sitting down on the floor in front of the entrance. They were decorated with special tiles of the Old Faith, the crowns of the siblings standing to the left of the building on four cobblestone pedestals, like trophies.

Leshy could feel the magnetic pull of his own crown calling out to him like some sort of siren. And yet, he knew that it no longer belonged to him, to this strange mortal body he still wasn't used to.

"I was the God of Chaos. But now I'm a simple mortal who goes by the name 'Leshy,' as much as I hate to admit it."

"I think you look cute as a mortal." Leshy was so stunned that he managed to accurately turn his head towards Nael in surprise. "Even so, I can't help but be curious about your divine form and how you looked like before..."

"Before the Lamb tore the heart out of my corpse?"

"Yes. You didn't have to say it."

"But I did."

"Insufferable."

"Same to you."

Both of them smiled at this silly exchange, not even once letting go of each other's hand as they covered away from the early morning downpour. Appreciating the beauty that surrounds him through his senses, Leshy speaks up once again:

"You know, I used to favor my brother Narinder above everyone else, because I thought that death was the most beautiful thing ever. But now, sitting here with you, I can't help but feel like... maybe life is what truly beautiful." At first Nael wanted to say how uncharacteristic such talk is for Leshy and how cheesy it sounds, but he quickly stops himself. No no, he shouldn't say anything of the sort when Leshy is being so sincere and open with him. So, instead, he answers:

"Maybe the fact that death is a part of life is what made it so beautiful to you." Lehsy was honestly expecting to be made fun of, but that didn't happen, which surprised him.

He could feel the divine energy of the Temple behind them, and it attracted his attention for a moment.

He knows for a fact that Lamb can hold marriage rituals for themself and a lucky choosen follower, but would they agree to...

"Nael? Would you ever consider... you know, marrying someone?" The words came out of his mouth before he could truly think over what he was saying.

"Marrying someone? Why? Are you proposing?"

"Maybe."

"Then, if 'maybe,' then maybe I'd say yes."

"Really?" The cat was willing to marry him this easily and without question? Does that mean that they... perhaps they share his feelings?

"Yes, really. I don't see a single reason not to agree."

"Then... Nael..."

"..."

"...Will you marry me?"

[hackerqueen]

Without you

A short story about Richy's funeral and how MC is coping after the mine fire.

warnings: mention JakexMC, mental breakdown, slight sexual abuse

I stared blankly at the group of people standing in front of me. Nothing caught my attention, all the colors washed into one, and time didn't seem to pass at all. He stopped, but already a week ago. A week ago when I first heard the "MC, the mine blew up. They found a man's body." My cheeks were dry because I wasn't crying anymore. It seemed to me that I got rid of all the water from my body that I had in me.

And when the bronze coffin was lowered into the deep grave, I heard something that I will never forget for the rest of my life. I heard a loud sob that was similar to the moan of a wounded animal that is fighting with all its might to survive. I looked towards the sound and saw a red-haired girl who was clutched by a taller and bigger bearded man. I tensed my whole body and face to stay in place so as not to walk over to her and take her in my arms. Jessy's fregile body trembled with spasms of desperate crying as Dan tried to hold her still. My Jessy, who I always associated with smile, warmth and determination, was now the definition of surrender. And that broke me the most, because why was fate so cruel that it took away even the greatest ray of happiness we had left?

The coffin fell down and was covered with earth. People will remember him as a cheerful and playful mechanic who could always make you feel better. I wasn't sure how I would remember him. Right now, it was just a taste of betrayal I had never experienced before.

My arms were folded over my chest, I stood there with a stony face as my mind stormed. No, it was a typhoon. Murderous and merciless. All I wanted was to silence all these thoughts and go to sleep. To be unaware of all the fuss and chaos for at least one hour. One hour of peace, is that much? But my brain wouldn't give up. It still flooded me with thoughts and anxiety. Jake. What has become of him? Did he die in the mine, and if so, where was his body? If he got away, did the FBI catch him? And they did, I was sure of it. Did they just kill him? Or worse, were they torturing him? I was replaying our last conversation. I love you. He confessed it to me. He actually told me he loved me and I replied the same to him. God, I would give anything to turn back time and stop him from saying those words. Maybe then it would hurt less.

My God, I would give anything to turn back time, get my way and go into that mine alone instead of letting him go there. He wasn't supposed to die there.

– So you showed up.

I turned to a female voice I didn't know yet. However, I immediately recognized the woman standing in front of me. Missing Hannah Donfort stood before me as if nothing had happened.

– Hi, Hannah. Nice to finally meet you. – I made an effort to be friendly but I honestly didn't feel like talking to either of them. Well, maybe except Jessy, because only she could understand what I felt at that moment. I felt a special bond between me, Jessy, and Richy. It wasn't a big deal, but it was ours. Our little something that gave me a certain sense of belonging to their group.I scanned the people around her.

Seeing them all was very strange and almost stressful, because our contact so far was only by phone. Thomas was standing next to her, giving me a not-so-pleasant look. In fact, he almost always had that look on his face, so I wasn't too concerned. After all, I didn't like him much after all the stupid things he'd done while looking for his girlfriend.

On the other side of her, I recognized her sister, Lilly. Our relationship was... dynamic. From a lot of hatred to a quite successful friendship, the only thing that separated us was solving the puzzle together with Jake. The blonde gave me a soft smile and I couldn't help but wonder if Jake's smile would be similar to hers? Did the color of her eyes resemble his? Did the warmth of her gaze even remotely reflect his? They were half siblings after all, they must have had something in common. Lilly seems to have sensed that I was thinking of a hacker because her face turned violently sad.

And behind them stood Dan, who was still hugging Jessy, but she wasn't crying anymore. The mascara had dried on her cheeks, and she stared at me with the same dull eyes that I had a dozen or so minutes ago. She stared at me and her eyes were so... alien. With one look from her, I understood that our first meeting would be without a smile and a warm hug.

– How dare you come here? – I was snapped out of watching the others by Hannah's sharp question. – Who invited you? What happened wasn't enough for you?

What the fuck?

– What are you talking about, Hannah? – I asked cautiously, my jaw clenching tight

– You think I don't know anything? I know Richy wanted you to come to him. Maybe if you'd done that instead of sending Jake there, they'd both still be alive!

I opened my eyes in amazement, and my blood suddenly began to boil. I looked at them all in disbelief to hear that it was some kind of bad joke, but they stood as they had been standing before. Lilly had her eyes fixed on the ground, Thomas continued to stare at me with his dull and unfavorable gaze, and Jessy, even though she was looking at me, I knew that her heart was somewhere else.

– You know shit. You don't know anything about what really happened, so don't accuse me. – I growled at her, losing patience. The girl I didn't know, and yet to whom I gave the last months of my life, made me mud, and the people I helped didn't even defend me with a single word.

– Oh yeah? So it wasn't like Richy wanted you to come to Duskwood and you agreed to let Jake go instead of you? – she asked in a venomous tone and I fell silent. Because basically that's exactly how it was. – It wasn't like you used him to save your own skin? It wasn't like you knew full well it could kill him and you still agreed to it? It wasn't like you let him die instead of you?

– Shut up. – I mumbled, but she didn't listen to me. She kept stabbing daggers into my bleeding heart. – I said, shut up!

I was breathing fast and my heart was beating mercilessly fast causing a sharp pain in my chest. Nobody interrupted her. They all think I'm the cause of Richy's death. Jake's death.

– And now you're boasting because you think he did it for you? – she asked and I felt myself falling apart. – Do you think he cared about you? He's only been using you the whole time to find me.

I stared at her not understanding a single word. One sentence from her and I knew she was still in love with the hacker. I glanced briefly at Lilly, who shook her head slightly. She did not know.

So why should I pretend I'm okay when I'm not? Should I allow myself to be treated this way by the person for whose search I gave all my strength?

– And you're still in love with the boy who blew you off. – I said dryly. – Hannah, tell me, don't you have at least a little respect not to start an argument in the cemetery right after we buried our friend?!

A dry snort escaped her lips.

– Don't make me laugh, MC. Just accept that you should never get involved in this. If you hadn't, our friends would still be alive.

Once again, surprise flashed across my face. She.. didn't know she sent them my number?

I had enough. It was her game that I wasn't going to play anymore. I moved forward, passing everyone I had called friends before.

– Before you start to accuse me again, ask them how it really was. Go ahead, ask Thomas why I got involved. Ask them how you ruined my life.

Lilly grabbed my hand, but I pulled away from her grip. I couldn't and didn't want to look at them. Not now and never in my life.

* * *

Crowd, sweaty bodies and alcohol. These three things accompanied me that evening. I didn't count the amount of high-proof liquors I drank. They were not colorful, light drinks, but pure vodka, which allowed me to forget faster. Get away from what happened. I danced, wiggling my hips, brushing against random people as neon and flickering lights illuminated my tired face.

At one point I swallowed some colored pills that were given to me - but I didn't care. At that moment, I would swallow anything that would give me a moment of solace. One minute I was dancing with a girl I didn't know, and the next I was pinned against the bathroom wall, kissed by an older man.

My body was sticky from alcohol, sweat and other unknown substances. I felt my hair tangled. At that moment, I only wanted one thing. Death. I wanted to cry. Oh god, I wanted to howl as loud as I could, but not even a single tear ran down my dead face. The man covered my skin with more wet kisses. He alternately drooled my cleavage, neck and shoulders, and I just stared blankly ahead and begged for someone to end it.

I don't know how, but I freed myself from the man's tight grip. Perhaps someone sent me a guardian angel, perhaps someone took pity on the girl who drank too much, and perhaps I regained some strength to oppose him. I didn't remember how I got to the motel room, but I only woke up when I ran into the bathroom. I didn't hesitate - I immediately staggered to the shower.

I clumsily opened the glass door of the cabin, and then my legs refused to obey. I fell onto the white paddling pool, bruising my knees painfully. I put my hands on the glass, trying to get air, but the harder I did, the more I was suffocating. My head throbbed and my body writhed in convulsions of pain. After turning on the tap with water, my hand fell, knocking most of the things off the shelf, making a loud bang. It wasn't important. Feeling the icy water pour over my burning body, I felt as if someone had given me life back.

I sighed, hanging my head, feeling my hair sticking more and more to my forehead. I don't even know when the water started mixing with my tears.

It wasn't like you let him die instead of you?

If you hadn't, our friends would still be alive.

She is right. You are disgustingly selfish. You should die there.

You couldn't handle it so you're off to drink and fuck with some old creep?

You should die there.

A soft, pitiful moan escaped my lips as more trickles began to run down my face. I clenched my trembling fingers against my thighs as hard as I could, crying louder and more wistfully. Nothing mattered to me. Not when I knew I had let the man I loved suffer for me. My lungs refused to obey me, and I felt such a piercing pain that I hadn't felt in a long time. I choked on my own saliva that landed on my chin and hands. At one point, I howled like a wounded animal because I couldn't control it anymore. It was like torture. I begged in my mind for it to end, but absolution never came.

Jake is dead because of you.

I closed my eyes, wrapped my arms around my waist, and screamed again, doubled over. My forehead touched the white paddling pool.

As if behind the fog, I heard someone opening the cabin door. I didn't open my eyes. I closed my eyes tighter when I felt a gentle squeeze on my shoulder, followed by a pleasant smell and warmth emanating from the other person.

– MC, calm down. – he whispered in a trembling voice right into my ear, his trembling fingers running through my wet hair. I pressed my forehead against the hard surface as hard as I could, almost breaking my nails from how hard I pressed them against my skin. – You are safe. I am with you.

– Jake? – I croaked

This voice was like the fulfillment of the most secret desires.

It took me a few long moments to come to my senses. I opened my eyes in an amok, but the vision was very blurry. I blinked slowly.

And when I didn't see anyone there, I felt like someone stab a dagger right through my heart, twirl it hard, then pull it out and leave me to bleed out.

"I've nothing without you

All my dreams and all the lights mean

Nothing without you"

Lana Del Rey

[xomoosexo]

please feel free to ignore this, I’m just having some thoughts following twitch con. This is unprompted so I am really sorry if it’s not at all what you expected or needed in your inbox today. 🐼🪿🦉🦢🌲🌵🌺🍄🌸🪷🪻🥭🥭🥑🥐🥟⛸️🏂🛹🏊‍♀️🏄‍♀️🎻🎻 <- apology gifts

⚠️ warning discussions of April and the Mess of it all ⚠️

I’m seeing a lot of posts and stuff w ccs talking about how grateful they are for the q smp and how many people they’ve been able to meet as a result and how kind q is. Looking back at April and what happened after, and from the overwhelming consensus of people who actually know q, I don’t believe him to be a bad person. I think he’s ambitious and he has quite an ego. I think these things blinded him, but that nevertheless, he seems to be mostly good. I think he’ll never really be friends w dt again (obv) bc he is too proud to look back and admit that he was wrong in some way. Too proud to make amends. And I think that’s worse than portraying him as some kind of evil evil guy. Whatever they meant to each other? It wasn’t enough for him to swallow his pride. It just.. fell short.

I hope this doesn’t read as insanely parasocial - I’m trying to give a take based on what people that are not fans are saying, ie a mixture of Things That Objectively Happened (q ghosting dream for example) and things told about q from ccs. I know the popular thing to say around these parts is that q is just trying to be the best and greatest etc etc but I believe from the evidence we’re seeing (small things, like Aimsey’s steak restaurant story) it just doesn’t seem to be the entire truth (I think you can want to be the best and greatest and also want to be kind and unite people). Maybe there’s no truth, idk. I also think as someone who would never allow for smth like this to happen between me and a friend of mine (prob because I don’t attract those kind of people as friends), I always go back to April because I’ll never really get it. And this is just a me thing but I am fascinated by problems I can’t solve. And to be clear. I still think that q should have done better in April. It’s like when someone takes a neutral stance on smth they shouldn’t be neutral about. They think it’s small, or it doesn’t matter, but it absolutely does. They have done evil but they are not evil.

I don't think he's a terrible person either nonnie and I agree with this! honestly I've never thought that (though it takes a lot for me to think that about someone) I do really dislike him though. but that doesn't mean that everyone who I personally dislike is an evil terrible person. I totally believe he's kind to his current friends and treats people he meets very well.

that doesn't mean he can't have majorly fucked up in a really truly terrible way that he'll probably never be forgiven for by dteam (or us) I thibk he had his reasons for why he went about april the way he did and why he prioritized his "mission" (making *his* project, having himself in the driver's seat and the big name in minecraft servers, and executing his idea and philosophy around fan interaction) over his friendships and the safety of dream and his family. I think that was a really callous cruel decision but I also think it was actually a smart one. his goal was to see his project reach that height he wanted by any means and he accomplished that. I think he's kind to the people that don't get the way of his ambitions 🤷

[lilsweetruler]

Giacomo x Reader |The Friendship| Pt.1

[Some Background- This Reader is gonna be portrayed as an AFAB, and this entire story takes place after the whole Team Star Arc (Lol TSA) Anyway there might be some spoilers, but whatever. enjoy!]

|The Friendship-SFW|

You fell in love with him at first sight but knew that you couldn't ask him out due to having to fight. Oh, but now we're done fighting, right? No, we have nothing in common, golly will he even like me back as a friend. You know what? I became a straight champion of Paldea, I can at least talk to him.

Despite the stereotype of most teenaged boys being messy with their surroundings, Giacomo kept his base spick and span. The Gate stood tall and was probably recently cleaned, the big bell even looked shinier. 'Okay' the last affirmation you needed before ringing the bell.

"RRR-ING-A-LING! Hey who's at the gate? Wait, Is that Champion Y/n? O-hoh sh*t. Come on in!"

*oh sh*t? why are they worried? crap. am I that daunting?* thinking to yourself for too long at a time can prove to be dangerous, for example the gate's been open for at least a minute and every grunt is staring at you.

"Howdy." you stated with a quiver in your voice. 

There he was, as confident and busy as ever, with laptop in hand Giacomo approached. You can't read his expressions too well but you're confident in knowing that he was quite surprised by your dropping in.

"And What to I owe the pleasure in meeting with the sole person, responsible for all the ass-whooping?" he delightfully chuckled at his version of your introduction. 

*CRAP, All the grunts are here,  I don't wanna look like a damn fool in front of all these people* And you did it again, you zoned-out and went through all the possibilities of embarrassment, and he noticed.

"Suddenly not a talker? OK, how's about we talk in my tent." Giacomo was always the problem solver, thank Arceus. You nodded, and off you both went towards the head tent. 

The dread dwelled into your stomach, it's as if you got called to Director Clavell's office, but something was different. The weather was quite perfect, mid 70's, slight breeze, and some cloud coverage. But Most importantly you were going to spend some time alone with Giacomo, away from all those grunts. 

The walk was nice, but awkwardly silent, then he boomed;

"Alrighty, M'Lady we have *Arrived*" He attempted to say this in the fanciest way possibly whilst holding the flaps to the tent open. You couldn't help but chuckle a bit under your breath, but heard and was glad you're not in a terrible mood, as the sudden arrival did worry him.

Now, this was no ordinary tent it was quite spacious. It was even decorated with 2 sleeping bags, a desk, 2 chairs, a mini fridge, and an extension cord. You both sat down and kind of just stared at each other in silence after a quick hello. You broke the silence, stuttering and still very nervous.

"I know the last time I saw you it wasn't on the best of terms..."

"Put nicely. *heh*"

"*hah* .. Yeah, anyway I was hoping that maybe we could be-"

"OH THANK ARCEUS!" was the statement you were interrupted by

Now confused you gave Giacomo a look to explain himself. Unexpectedly he starts a short burst of laughter. Finally finishing, while still leaving you confused, Giacomo began to calm down and begin speaking.

"I honestly thought you came back for another round of battling, I got so nervous because I heard about the fight between you and Nemona." He made a face that could only be described as honest humility. He resumed;

"I'm assuming, but i figure you came back because you rather be friends, then just know me as the guy you beat up a while back"

"That's exactly what I planned to do. Man, I was so worried about you hating me and junk." you relaxed, finally telling him the truth. 

Now, how the hell were you gonna ask him out. YOU JUST BECAME FRIENDS. A moment of clarity hit you like a brick, you needed to slow tf down. Giacomo switched, now he looks nervous again, but only for a second does he wear that emotion. Back to a relatively normal expression, he proposed something; 

"Y'know if you wanted to hang out you could've asked sooner, but if you wanna go to Medali for some grub I wouldn't be to opposed to it" 

*Giacomo, stop reading my damn mind. But holy sh*t thank you*

"Of Course!" you piped up, a little too eager but its ok.

~*"Great, then its a date!"*~  

You got his number and more info for the date, then made up an excuse how your mom texted you and that you had to go home to help her. Walking away from that tent was chipping away at you with every step that you took.

Instead of actually going home you went and bought some clothes, for this "friend" date, nothing too fancy, yet nothing too casual. This is it, you are ready. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

This is my first story hope ya'll like it and i look forward to writing more.

[fortycumber]

so having read @mindmeltonabun-blog 's analysis of the plagiarism in My Demon, I felt strangely compelled to give my own review, since I have been pondering on it for quite some time now ever since I've finished it.

In short, my opinion would be, that the drama is a rather shallow, superficial, but visually stunning rendition of a popular trope that has been done a gazillion times before. It leaves a lot to the viewer's interpretation and their imagination due to the lack of proper explanation of major events in the plot. Think, an adaptation of a popular teen novel from the 2010s- short on everything but chemistry between the main actors (Fallen from 2016, The Mortal Instruments from 2013, heck even Twilight as the post stated as well and many more). The author laid out a nice blue print of a story that could have worked, had it been better researched and had she paid more attention to details. My particular problem with this drama was Gu Won's obvious identity crisis, which stems mainly from the fact that the author herself didn't really know what he was supposed to be. Like is he a demon, plucked from the many or is he the devil himself? He calls himself a demon, then then devil, he often claims that God's his boss, God herself says that she sent him there among humans, because she needed a "worker", which to me heavily implies that he's an angel..? Am I the only one who couldn't quite understand that part? And after the small discussion I had with certain commenters on Mydramalist, I guess I agree with the fact that he's supposed to be some kind of a fallen angel, mirroring the real devil, but that still doesn't explain as to why God called him "her worker". I guess, everything's part of the author's scarcely explained lore.

The Christian elements of the story, especially the Joseon Era part, were interesting (like I would totally watch a standalone drama following only that arc of the story, it's ten times more original than the main one), but totally lacked in execution and research which made a complete jumbled mess of the whole story, I did catch a few references to the Bible here and there, dunno if they were intentional or not.

Do Do Hee, to me, seemed like an even more washed out replica of Nam Ji Ah from The Tale of the Nine Tailed, mainly in how she was structured: she was strong, independent and formidable until she met her male lead and in a way she served as a feisty enigma for him to solve throughout the first few episodes, until he did and she fell flat, constantly in a need of his protection and reassurance. The "Succession" part of the show was an absolute chaos, it was obvious from the beginning who the culprit was and his tactics were honestly laughable, he wasn't terrifying at all, yet alone secretive and elusive, his whole character seemed to have escaped from a makjang if you ask me. There was no real fight, no palpable hatred and conflict between Do Do Hee and him, he spent strategically more time stroking Gu Won's magical book and chatting up the maniac he hired in sketchy chatrooms, instead of doing evil things. I would so preferred if the guy who was obsessed with Do Do Hee (for whichever reason we'll never find out btw or maybe I missed it, dunno) was the real villain instead of Noh Suk Min, he at least, evoked pure disgust and uneasiness in me, while Noh Suk Min made me laugh, literally. Oh and what a marvelous waste of Lee Sang Yi, his role was literally useless he was just there to be pretty (I love you boo <333333). Let's not forget the detectives please- they were even more useless, they just existed to be clueless about their jobs and look raggedy and lost most of the time.

The whole tone of the drama should have been different and more graphic. For a drama that deals with such heavy topics, it should've been darker, grittier, scarier, Gu Won should have been more dangerous, bolder, more seductive, sexier and more lethal, I mean he's a literal demon and given his tragic backstory he should have been truly ruthless, preying on people's misfortunes and feasting on the terrible outcome, in fact I think I would prefer for him to have been a libertine living an absolutely lavish and debauched life in the human underworld, where he would find most of his potential clients instead of the doleful theatre owner who mopes around clock towers looking for "his next victim", it just doesn't match the person he became after seeing Do Do Hee's past version dead and killing all of those people because of it (I mean Song Kang is more than a capable actor to do such a character, I wanna cry thinking what we've been deprived of seriously). For someone who boldly exclaims his hatred of people, he seems quite timid in hurting them, he should have been shown literally torturing people who didn't adhere to the contract and who wanted to escape it, instead he is just stuck in a dress up game with a plot that progresses nowhere and most of the time selectively "borrows" elements from other famous dramas. In fact the same thing could be said for Do Do Hee as well; as much as I liked most of her outfits, she was presented as this notorious business woman in episode one, but all she ever does in the rest of the episodes is just drive around town, looking like a Barbie doll.

I'm sure there were more things that irked me, but I just can't remember at the moment so I'll just stop here. The sole thing that saved this show was the chemistry between the leads.

[sleepdeprivedsimp234]

Loui is forced to go to ~therapy~. It doesn’t go too well…. Sorta-

CDC: Alright Louisiana, t-today will be your first d-day of therapy and my first day as y-your therapist :D *thinks that this is gonna be somewhat normal*

Loui: Um… bye b*tch- *tries to escape but fails miserably cuz Gov/DC just snatched him up in his arms and tossed him into his seat*

Gov/DC, not in the mood for this bs: Don’t try that sh*t. You need therapy, you’re getting therapy.

Loui: Mai sha- I told you I’m fine!

Gov/DC: I know and that is the biggest piece of bs I’ve ever heard. Would you like me to name the things that are possibly if not are actually wrong with you?

Loui: *I’ve never heard silence quite this loud*

Gov/DC: Exactly.

CDC: Well that happened… Anyway, I’ll start out with simple question s-since it’s o-our first day. What would you say your m-mood is on a daily basis? And I don’t m-mean the mood or emotions that you may or may not put up to hide w-whatever you feel inside. I would l-like you to be honest with me, you can take as long as you need.

Loui: *death glare*

CDC: U-uhh…. *looks to Gov for help*

Gov: *sigh* Listen Lou… can you pls be a bit more cooperative right now?

Loui: Fine…

Gov: Thank you. Carry on. *leaves*

CDC: Alright. Do you have an answer to my question?

Loui: *under his breath* Just hit me with a car already…

CDC: What w-was that?

Loui: I said just hit me with a car already.

CDC: W-why…. Anyways, have you had anything bad or emotionally damaging happen to you recently and if so how recently?

Loui: I mean… my ex bf just cheated on me a couple days ago with some basic blonde b*stard of a man after he somehow got me to start dating him again after 3 years of verbal-sometimes-physical abuse and non-consensual touching and sh*t….

CDC: *in shock* Oh bud… That’s terrible… I’m so sorry…

Loui: It’s fine, it’s not that big a deal, other people have it worse.

CDC: What’re y-you talking about?! Ofc it’s a big deal!! What he did is not ok! And j-just because other people may h-have it worse doesn’t m-make your problems any less valid. How many times has this happened to you?

Loui: At least 4.

CDC: Jesus Christ….

Loui: Honestly maybe if I fell in love with ~ANXIETY~, it will ALSO leave me :D

CDC: I can’t handle this sh*t right now….

Loui: Just remember, if you can’t handle me at my worst…, I handle me at my worst EVERYDAY! WHICH MAKES ME STRONGER THAN YOU-

CDC: I can’t do this t-today….

Loui: Oh my gosh a spider!! *pulls out gun that Texas gave him (big mistake btw-)*

CDC: WAIT LOU-! It is a living thing! Treat it the way you want to be treated!

Loui: *points gun at spider* Killed without hesitation!-

CDC: LOUI- *tackles the poor thing and manhandles him to the ground so he can take the gun*

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

CDC: *walks out with Louisiana behind him*

Gov: So…. How’d it go…?

CDC: *sigh* Long story short…, this kid’s g-going to need more professional h-help-

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

[thundercrack]

March book round-up! I ended up reading more than I anticipated - busy month!

The Last Taxi Driver by Lee Durkee

Random pick. Just wanted something easy and quick. Honestly, I hardly remember what happened in this book, so that isn't very high praise. His taxi was a real piece of garbage.

Dead Astronauts by Jeff Vandermeer

Vandermeer is more famous for his Southern Reach trilogy -- of which I literally own the first and haven't yet read it -- but I definitely see why he's considered...interesting. This book was...weird. But I liked it!!!!! Strange and shifting and at times deeply unclear, Vandermeer creates a like, weird collage of an apocalyptic corporate future mixed with ecological experimentation and connection. Very neat!

A Ballet of Lepers: A Novel and Stories by Leonard Cohen

Well, I can see why these didn't get published before. Prior to this, I hadn't actually read any of Leonard Cohen's published works, but I have read Matters of Vital Interest: A Forty-Year Friendship with Leonard Cohen by Eric Werner which I didn't think was very good or very interesting. I just grabbed this off the new books display though, so it was fun to run into. I found it pretty interesting though to see Cohen explore some of the same themes he does in his albums in these early writings. I liked the novel more than any of the short stories. At times he is a very compelling writer, but the characters often were quite flat. Kind of fun to read! If I run into Beautiful Losers, I'd probably read it. But I'll be sticking most closely to his 1967-74 run of albums.

Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke

I read Clarke's books backwards -- I really liked Piranesi, so I tracked back and read this one, though I think it's the more famous of her two novels. It was also WAY longer than I expected (to its own detriment, I think). I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction, but I did really enjoy her sort-of mimic of 19th c. writing styles (and all the footnotes. I love a book with some fun footnotes). To some degree, I think I was missing some of the ideas she was playing off of, especially with regards to the North and South of England and what they represent. I did enjoy the system of magic she was playing with, but I thought, despite the heavy focus on past-and-plot, it kind of fell a little short for me at the end. I also thought it was unfortunate that in this book, which has a pretty heavy focus at times on the Napoleonic Wars in France, Britain as an Empire goes fairly unmentioned. Honestly, though I mostly enjoyed it and she's a good enough writer, I think I liked it less than Piranesi and I ended it vaguely dissatisfied. I didn't think about it at all after finishing.

The Tatami Galaxy by Tomohiko Morimi (trans. Emily Balistrieri)

There's an anime based off this book, but I haven't watched the anime (I don't have anything against it, I just hardly watch TV!). I just picked this up off the "New Books" rack at my library. Well, the book isn't new, but the translation is. I really enjoy these sort of parallel-universe stories, especially when they play with the idea of convergence rather than divergence. I really liked the more fantastical elements, such as the narrator finding himself in a labyrinth of 4-1/2 tatami mat rooms. The New York Times review ends with the line "There is no time loop quite like self-pity." Ha! I liked it, anyhow!

Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward

If I liked the last book, I really liked this one! I think it's almost difficult to say why other than it was a very good, very well-written book. She really captures the setting and the family and just...everything. The main character, Esch, thinks about Medea a lot. I think I read Ward's memoir Men We Reaped several years ago, which I also liked. I feel like I should have more to say here, and maybe I do, but mostly I thought this was a great book and I was texting my friends telling them to read it, which is rare.

Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata (trans. Ginny Tapley Takemori)

We're on a roll here! I liked this one too; I read it for my book club. I found the main character, Keiko, who has worked in a convenience store since college and feels it is the only place, she fits in. She's almost one with the store! A lot of the reviews focused on how odd Keiko was, but I didn't really get that. In her attempt to get everyone off her back, she takes this horrible man as a lodger. They both are trying to escape society in different ways (but man is that guy awful). It's sort of interesting how the book -- and Keiko -- play with ideas of exploitation, of fitting in, of misogyny, and so on. I really liked this book and translation. There was a really seducing rhythm to it. I quite enjoyed this interview with the author as well.

The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi

Another book I liked?? What has come over me! Set in southern Nigeria, Emezi weaves the story of the death of Vivek Oji in with all of the different ways he has been loved. How Vivek died only comes out at the end of the book, but it didn't particularly read like a traditional mystery or crime novel which is probably part of why I liked it. The book also deals with self-identity and the stigma of being gay/gender non-conforming in Nigeria. Just a very good, very interesting book!

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco (trans. William Weaver)

Okay, back to being a hater. Read this for my book club. Did NOT enjoy. There are a few reasons here, mostly just related to my categorical taste (Don't like mystery/detective stories, don't like historical fiction...). There definitely was a LOT here....some of which probably went 1,000ft over my head. Some of the conversations and little theological debates were fun to read, and I did like the ending well-enough....but not enough to ever feel any urge to read another Eco book. I guess I'm glad I read it, at the very least so that I never feel the urge to read it again.

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead

Wowwww this book was really good!! I more-recently (like, last week recently) read The Underground Railroad, which was also really good. I really liked the twist at the end. I don't know -- this book was interesting and brutal and very felt. The way it played back and forth between past-and-present was interesting, and the ideas the different boys represent....yeah. Based off a real story about a Florida state-run school for boys that only ended in 2011....the past is the present. Books that make me question how on earth Less by Andrew Sean Greer won a fiction Pulitzer. I thought it was good but not good like either of Whitehead's Pulitzer winning books are good.

Satantango by Lazlo Krasznahorkai (trans. George Szirtes)

You might be getting the sense that sometimes I just pick up books because I like the cover....and you would be correct. This one was cool and funky!!!!!!!!! I always think it's interesting when a book has no paragraph breaks, and it worked well here. I will say I sort of didn't know what was going on. It was set in an unclearly situated village in which all the residents give up...everything to follow (a possible con-man and/or religious leader?) Irmias. There were some very visceral moments like when this little girl kills her cat. It was pretty interesting, and also weird, and also a bit freaky at times.

[mew-cake]

Hey here's a little short story with an OC who I don't really have much else about but here we goooo

A young child sat alone in a room. The rain fell hard, clouds darkening the sky. 

The door creaked as its handle was turned. Muscles in the boy’s body tensed, knowing what would soon follow. Pain. Would it be from Mom or Dad? Maybe a visitor? It didn’t matter who. It always hurts.

Except this time.

This time there was a woman. A woman he had never seen before. She wore a dress in shades of purple he’d never even imagined. Long, dark hair flowed down her back, almost touching the floor. The boy gasped softly, never knowing something so lovely could exist in this world. In his world. Her clothes were elegant. She had to be a noble of some kind.

Then again, why would a noble come here?

“Hello.” Like a gentle breeze, she spoke. Walking forward, the woman stood before the boy. He should have known better. Closing his eyes, he braced for any kind of pain. A punch? Slap? Burn? Instead, there was the rustle of fabric. He waited to be grabbed, but there was nothing. Just…movement. Cracking his eyes open, the woman had kneeled down.

“How are you?” She asked with a gentle smile.

He knew those words, but didn’t quite understand what she meant by putting them all together. How was he? After staring at the floor for a while, he flicked his gaze up to meet her. The expression worn was one of confusion. She was here to hurt him, right? Everyone was.

“What’s your name?” 

Another question. The boy knew better than to stay quiet when asked. But when searching for an answer, he couldn’t find one. Not one that sounded right. Other people had names, but he never seemed to be given one.

“K…Kid…” A tiny voice replied. That’s what everyone called him.

“I see.” There was a hint of sadness in her voice. Why was she sad? “It’s nice to meet you, Kid. You can call me Momento.” She gave him a smile.

He didn’t understand. Why was she giving him her name? Shuffling uncomfortably under her gaze, Kid glanced away once again.

“Do you like it here?” 

Huh? Why did she want to know that? His mind raced. If he answers honestly, will he be punished? 

There was a crash from the other room. He could hear it even through the roar of the rain. The boy blinked, looking towards the door. Softly, the woman placed her hands on his cheeks and stepped into his vision.

“Now now, look at me.” It was not a command, but a suggestion. A suggestion given in the boy’s best interest. He didn’t mind, though. His mind was immediately captured by the warmth radiating from the woman’s hands. Mother’s hands were always so cold, and she never touched him this gently. For once, he felt safe under another’s touch.

“Would you like to come with me?” She asked, taking Kid off guard once again. That’s an offer he’s been given before. Some of the people who visit Mother and Father offer to take him away. He always refused. Home was painful, but it was familiar. He knew the rules. Knew how to not be punished. Not to mention, things were always worse when there were visitors.

On instinct, Kid almost shook his head. But this lady was so calming, and much nicer than anyone else he’d ever met. Lip trembling, he nods. Slowly, Memento moves forward to pick up the child. She pulls him close, looping an arm under his legs and supporting his back. She stayed there for a moment.

“W-Will…will they be mad…?” He manages to speak again, voice trembling. “M-Mom and…and Dad…?”

“No.” Memento smiled, shifting herself so that she sat on the ground, Kid in her lap. “They’ll never be mad at you again.”

“Okay…” 

He didn’t know what this woman wanted, but anything was better than the life he lived now. A song rang out, moving the stiff air with music. Her voice was so pretty. Eyes growing heavy, the boy found himself resting his head on her chest. It wasn’t long before he drifted off to sleep. 

Memento watched as the child’s breathing turned slow, and steady. Standing up, she made sure not to move him too much. The last thing she wanted to do was wake him from his peaceful slumber. He needed it. Walking to the door, it opened all on its own, without making a sound.

The room was in shambles. Furniture was turned over. Glass was broken. There was an unnatural darkness spread around the room, splashed all over the place. One that radiated  gloom and oppression. Some of that gloom had coalesced into a living entity. It took the shape of a wolf, and there were five in the room. With shining white eyes, their gaze turned to their master as she entered.

“Good job.” One hand went to pet the head of the nearest creature, a fondness in her voice. The creature whined softly. In one corner of the room, two of the creatures sat. Waiting. On the floor in front of them, two bodies lay frozen. Their faces stuck in an expression of absolute agony. Their skin was drained of all life and color, becoming almost gray. 

One had a broken off table leg stabbed through their neck. A hand around the piece of wood suggested it was self-inflicted. The other was missing one arm, which dangled from a wolf’s mouth. No blood came from their wounds, seemingly transformed to a dark, slime-like substance and decayed the veins around them. The cause of death was unlikely to be determined. So much had happened. They suffered greatly as they died. 

Walking over to the corpses, that gentle expression fell. Distain filled every inch of Momento’s body. These two deserved their fates. Walking to the door, one creature walked by her side. Its body melted, flowing up to the woman’s arm and forming into an umbrella. With a nod up to the creature, she stepped outside into the rain. 

The child in her arms shifted, snuggling closer. Smiling, she pressed a kiss into his head. Never again will this child suffer alone. Sparing one final glance to the prison that Kid once called a home, she sighed.

“Let’s go home, little one.”