#i have been reading so many herc comics and i love him. so very much

[artiquar]

have some more herculett

[geekmama]

Bumps in the Road

Sherlolly Appreciation Week 2018, Day 2, Early Relationship

Scenes from an Engagement -- three short follow-ups to various elements in the stories that comprise the Aftermath series (Perfection, Hope Reborn, and yesterday's Beautiful, respectively) though I believe they can be read as stand-alones, too. 

And again, many thanks to Ellis_Hendricks for beta reading!

~ Day Four... 

“I could get used to this,” Sherlock said, as contented as he’d ever been in his life. 

“Yes,” said Molly, and she squeezed his hand. 

“But we are not naming him Calvin.” 

Molly sighed. 

They were still in their dressing gowns and pyjamas, seated side by side on the porch steps. The early morning air was cool and fresh, the sun shone thin but with the promise of a beautiful spring day, and they were watching their new Basset Hound puppy as he took his first post-breakfast run and sniff around the back garden. 

Sherlock was not one who ordinarily waxed poetic, but the quest they’d undertaken the day before, to fetch the puppy from Anthea’s cousin’s farm in Exmoor, still seemed little short of dreamlike. A chauffeur-driven car had arrived for them about an hour after Sherlock confirmed that he was indeed interested in acquiring the puppy, and Anthea had sent along an agent to serve as cat-sitter for Hobbes as well, Molly having stated that she wouldn’t leave the kitten for so many hours when he’d only just arrived. Sherlock and Molly had had nothing to do but climb in, buckle up, relax, and enjoy the view. 

The journey was a long one, but reason had dictated a temporary cessation of carnal delights in any case. Sherlock had lost track of the number of times they’d made love in the short time they’d been together in the aftermath of Sherrinford and that horrid, blessed phone call, and he had been amazed to find his desire only increased with each encounter. Molly had not been amazed by this, though she’d been extremely pleased and assured him that she felt the same. She also reluctantly admitted to feeling a bit “shagged out”, physically speaking, which admission had filled Sherlock with such a mixture of manly pride and tender sympathy that he should have rolled his eyes in disgust at having become such a cliché. But for once he decided he didn’t give a toss about analysing the particulars of a situation, and was only deeply and sincerely thankful.  

Watching the countryside slip by, they’d conversed in a desultory fashion, and occasionally gave into weariness, in spite of the beauty of the landscape. Molly had napped curled against him, her head pillowed against his shoulder, and it was all he could do not to bend and kiss the top of her head every few minutes. Eventually, he fell asleep, too, and only roused when they’d arrived at a rather idyllic farm not far from the borders of Exmoor National Park. 

They’d managed to rouse themselves and face Anthea’s cousin, a Mrs. Eugenia Trent, with adequate decorum, though if Mrs. Trent had scratched the surface their facade would have crumbled pretty readily. In fact, the woman’s eyes were lit with amusement from her first sight of them, though whether said amusement was the result of unseemly tells on their part or was just her natural expression remained unclear. She was kindness itself, however, and introduced them to the puppy straight away. It was love at first sight (well, second sight, the photo Anthea had sent that morning had pretty much sold Sherlock). After giving a tiny bay at the sight of the strangers he’d trotted over to them behind his parents, two really beautiful prize-winning Bassets named Terry and June. 

Mrs. Trent said, “He was the only boy in the litter, and little girls seemed the order of the day among the buyers that’ve come by. He’s ten weeks, now, and good as gold -- I’ve even started housetraining him a bit. He’s been waiting for you, Mr. Holmes, you see?” 

The latter statement was a comment on the fact that Sherlock had crouched down and the three dogs had come right over, the pup actually trying to jump up and put tiny, slightly muddy paws on Sherlock’s expensively trousered knee. Sherlock chuckled, and carefully picked the puppy up, and then could not help laughing outright as he received a series of enthusiastic puppy kisses as he stood up again, the little dog in his arms. “Yes, yes, you are a fine fellow!” he told the pup, and to Mrs. Trent it was, “I believe you’re right. We’ll take him!.” 

The transaction confirmed, Mrs. Trent had invited them in for just a bite before that long drive back to London. The “bite” turned out to be hot tea, sandwiches on homemade bread, and some of the best biscuits Sherlock had ever eaten, casting even Mrs. Hudson’s into the shade. 

The puppy had slept most of the way home. Sherlock and Molly had not. They’d argued, instead, about what to name him. 

“What’s wrong with Calvin?” Molly asked. “Calvin and Hobbes! They go together! And he looks like a Cal.” 

But Sherlock replied, “I hate the name Calvin, the comic strip’s character was named for John Calvin and he was a wretched man with his predestination and theocracy. And anyway, I looked it up and it means little bald one. I was thinking more along the lines of Hercule.” 

“From Agatha Christie?” Molly considered, but then shook her head. “We could call him Herc for short, but it lacks the crisp consonant at the beginning that will draw his attention when you shout for him. What about Excaliber, with Cal for short? Or Calico -- he is white, black, and tan. Or perhaps Caliban?” 

“Those are ridiculous, and Caliban was a monster! He would have raped Miranda, given half a chance, and peopled else this isle with Calibans.” 

“That’s awful!” 

“That’s Shakespeare!” 

They continued the debate, off and on, clear back to London and Molly’s doorstep. Then, what with the excitement of introducing the puppy to Hobbes (the kitten established dominance in short order, puffing up and hissing fiercely so that little Hercule/Calico/Excaliber ran to Sherlock, yelping), showing the pup his new home, making everyone supper, and getting ready for bed, Sherlock and Molly quite forgot the argument. The pup was Darling or Sweetheart all evening, and when he was finally asleep in the luxurious crate Anthea had provided, Sherlock took Molly to bed again and they were once more lost to the world. 

Now, however, in the clear light of a new day, Sherlock felt that the matter of the puppy’s name needed to be resolved. Darling or Sweetheart would never do long term for a hound destined to be the bane of the criminal class and boon companion to the World’s Only Consulting Detective. 

“I still think Cal is a good nickname,” Molly said. 

“Hercule is better,” Sherlock insisted. “More elegant. And French.” 

“Very well,” said Molly. “Trying calling him. Go on!” 

Sherlock frowned. “You mean summon him by name? Very well.” He cleared his throat a bit, then called out, “Hercule!” 

There was no response. The pup continued snuffling about, nose to the ground, apparently finding some fascinating scents in Molly’s neat little garden. 

Sherlock tried again, a little louder. “Here, Herc!” 

There was still no response. 

Then Molly sang out, “Cal! Here, Cal!” And when the pup jerked his head up and began to run toward them, she burst out laughing, and exclaimed, “Good boy!  What a good doggie!” 

“You must have been practicing with him!” Sherlock accused. 

“Have not!” she asserted, smug. “When would I have had time?” 

“Well, your voice is higher!” But further sulking was cut short as the pup came running to him, rather than Molly, and indicated a desire to be picked up and cuddled. Sherlock complied with a smile, and his discontent vanished entirely under a renewed onslaught of puppy kisses. 

Molly chuckled. “He knows who his new master is.” 

“Certainly he does,” Sherlock agreed, laughing, until he got the pup to settle a bit, though the little dog still gazed up at him adoringly, panting happily. Sherlock was equally smitten, and stroked him, amazed at how soft he was. The thought occurred that this was the first dog he’d ever owned -- but he shoved that dark cloud away. Plenty of time to deal with the past without spoiling the delightful present. Sherlock said to the puppy in a playfully scolding tone, “So, you think you’re a Cal, do you?” But hearing even that slight disapprobation in the voice of his master, the pup immediately laid his ears back, looking uncertain. Sherlock hastily backtracked. “No, no! Everything’s fine! But you are a smart one, aren’t you?”    

And then Molly said, “What about Calbraith?” 

“Calbraith?” Sherlock repeated (idiotically), frowning at her again. 

“Means British Warrior.” She cocked her head. “You’re not the only one who can google the meaning of names.” 

“Hmm.” Sherlock actually rather liked the sound of that, though it would be some time before the moniker would really fit. “It’s not bad,” he conceded. 

Molly smiled and, leaning close, she reached over and joined in petting the pup. She said to Sherlock, in a deceptively casual way, “It’s up to you, of course. If you really like Herc…” 

But Sherlock, in the first throes of romance and domestic bliss, thanks to the woman beside him, knew when it was time to give in gracefully. “Apparently this one does not, however,” he said, pouting only a very little, for form’s sake. “Do you, Calbraith?” he asked the pup, stroking the long ears. 

And Molly giggled as Cal took his cue and licked Sherlock’s hand.   

  o-o-o

  ~ Day Six...

 “Sherlock, what’s this?” 

Cal and Hobbes, now fast friends, had breakfasted and were curled up together in Cal’s crate, and Sherlock had gone back to bed, too, commandeering all the pillows to ensure his comfort as he went through email on his phone, his cup of tea and a plate of gingernuts on the nightstand beside him. However, he made an effort to look up at his beloved, since she was industriously preparing some of their clothing for delivery to the dry cleaners. 

Apparently including the suit he’d worn to Sherringford. 

And of course, being Molly, she had been checking the pockets. 

He stared at the small metal plaque she was now holding up. The one that said, I Love You. 

The sight of it took him right back to the moment when he’d bent to snatch it up from among the debris of the coffin he’d destroyed with his bare hands, John and Mycroft still standing like statues over by the open door as he’d concluded the process of giving himself over to pain and grief and rage. Exhausted, he nevertheless had been determined that that plaque with those words would not be left in that place, exposed to further mockery. 

“Sherlock?” 

He realized he’d been “buffering” as John called it, and, blinking, he raised his eyes to Molly’s face. She was looking worried and puzzled. A little wary. He cleared his throat a bit and then said, with a semblance of calm, “Give it to me, will you, please?” 

She came over immediately and handed it to him, but she also asked him, rather gently, “Is that from the coffin?” 

“Yes,” he replied. The plaque was so small and cool to the touch, which seemed very odd considering… 

But now Molly was sitting down on the edge of the bed beside him. “It’s alright, you know.” 

He looked up at her. 

 “I mean…everything’s going to be fine.” She bent and tenderly kissed his lips. 

He set the plaque down on the nightstand beside his cup of tea, and then his hands went to her: warm and vital, slender and alive.  “Come back to bed.” He needed her again, needed her close. Closer than close. 

Delight, worry, sympathy… he could read her like a book. “Yes. Alright,” she said, softly. “But you have to share the pillows.” 

And he was able to smile at that. “I will always share the pillows,” he replied, and as he drew her against him he wondered again at the helpless, visceral joy and agony of love.

  o-o-o

  ~ A Month Later...

 “Holmes!” 

Sherlock, with Molly on his arm, had been following the restaurant’s hostess back to their table when the vaguely familiar voice sounded and a big, beefy man pushed back his chair and stood up, looking between Sherlock and Molly in surprise. 

“And Molly Hooper! Well, I’ll be damned!” 

Bloody hell! Sherlock thought, his eyes widening ever so slightly as a jolt of recognition shot through him, though he maintained his mask of insouciance in all other respects. 

It was Glen Harrison, former rugby-playing idiot from Molly’s mid-level organic chemistry class in her first year at uni, the class in which Sherlock, at the tail-end of his graduate studies,  had reluctantly served as a teacher’s assistant. 

“Glen!” Molly smiled a bit uncertainly, glancing between her current fiancé and her former classmate cum perpetrator of bodily assault with a view to attempted rape. Nonetheless, she held out her hand to the bastard, since she had received his apology the Monday after the incident, which apology, true to form, she had accepted. She was far too soft a touch, and always had been. Thankfully for Sherlock’s youthful peace of mind, he’d observed that Molly had enough sense to steer clear of the tosser outside the classroom and, thus reassured, he’d  been able to take leave of that bastion of higher learning and pretty much delete Glen from his Mind Palace without further ado. 

Though not entirely. 

One of his favorite memories of university was the rescue of Molly Hooper, featuring his young dragon-slaying self. He’d utilized some simple moves he’d picked up from associates of Mycroft, and Glen the Great Gawk had dropped like a stone. Molly, who’d been smitten with Sherlock before the incident, was quite awestruck, and the subsequent sojourn along the river as he escorted her back to her room had been very… pleasant. 

So no, he had not forgotten Glen. Not quite. 

Now Glen was grinning, and said, “Lord, fancy meeting you two here -- the wife and I -- this is my wife, Tiffany, by the way--” 

“How do you do?” Molly murmured, and Sherlock inclined his head very slightly at Tiffany (upper middle-class antecedents, left uni to pursue modeling, whirlwind romance, engagement, marriage, two children, charitable work, garden club, PTA). 

“--we came up to town on business and actually saw the announcement of your engagement in the Times!” 

“Yeees,” said Sherlock, angry at his parents all over again, though they’d at least had the sense not to mention the wedding venue. 

But Glen gleefully nattered on. “And then, of course, it all made sense. Always wondered if consulting detective Holmes was some relation to that Holmes at uni, and there it was, in black and white: William Sherlock Scott Holmes! Good job you kept to William at school -- easy enough to take the piss without something like Sherlock providing ammunition.” 

Sherlock merely glared at the collosal berk.  

And Glen, contrary to expectation, actually took the hint. “Yeah, well, you have to admit it’s an unusual name, and you know how kids are. But anyway, congratulations, you two! God, it’s amazing to see you both again after all these years.” 

“Indeed,” said Sherlock. 

“It is,” said Molly, with rather a sharp look in Sherlock’s direction. 

He tried to subdue the flutter of dread in his bosom. 

Molly turned back to Glen and his wife. “I do hope you have a wonderful time in London. Where do you live now?” 

“Just outside Brighton,” said Glen. “Look us up next time you’re down there, eh?” 

“That would be lovely,” Molly replied. 

When hell freezes over, was Sherlock’s reply, but aloud he only said, “Yes, well, must be off, our table’s waiting.” 

“Oh, of course,” said Glen. “Cheers!” 

Sherlock and Molly resumed the journey to their (thankfully secluded) table at the back of the restaurant, Sherlock trying not to panic. The hostess saw them seated and handed them each a menu, and took their order for drinks. 

“I’ll have the Macallan, and make it a double,” said Sherlock. 

“Just a glass of the Pinot Grigio.” Molly smiled until the hostess took herself off. Then she turned, unsmiling, to glare at Sherlock. 

Feeling there was nothing for it, he said, “Soooo… not an extra strong G and T?” 

An angry flush suffused her cheeks. “You liar!” 

Sherlock sighed, well aware he deserved every bit of her anger and more. 

Molly went on. “That first time we met at Barts: you did remember me from university!” 

“Yes,” he said, simply. 

“Then why… no! Don’t tell me. You wanted my professional expertise without involving yourself in anything involving sentiment.” 

“Yes.” 

“And all these years… why, I thought I must be the most forgettable girl alive! That what had been so important to me -- that night… the… the event… YOU… had meant so little to you that you’d completely dismissed the whole thing!” 

“Yes.”’ 

“You bastard!” 

He sighed again. “Yes.” 

The hostess returned at this point, and Molly composed herself as best she could as their drinks were set on the table. Sherlock picked up his glass of Macallan and tossed back about half of it. 

As soon as the hostess took herself off again, Molly hissed, “Is that all you have to say for yourself? Just Yes, Yes, Yes?” 

Sherlock winced. “Would I’m sorry help?” 

She drew herself up. “I don’t believe you’re sorry at all! I think you’d do it again in a minute!” 

“Yes, I probably would,” he admitted. “Under the same circumstances. I mean… before… everything. I never meant to hurt you... but I always do, don’t I? And after a while I… I really did forgot about it. More or less.” 

She looked slightly less angry. However, she said, fuming, “You should be…oh! I don’t know what you deserve!” 

“To be married?” he suggested, hopefully. “So you can hold it over me for the rest of my days?” 

And she gave a chuff of laughter. “Well, there is that.”  She sat back, shaking her head. “What am I going to do with you? You’re impossible.” 

He gave a derisive sniff. “Oh, Molly, you’ve known that for years, and yet here we are. You’d better just marry me. That’ll give you all the time in the world to decide what to do with me. Let your imagination run wild. I trust you.” 

As planned, she could not suppress a smile, but there was a glint in her eye as she retorted, “You may just regret those words, Sherlock Holmes.” 

But he dared to smile, now, too. “Never in life, Molly Hooper,” he said, and knew it for God’s own truth. “I leave my fate entirely in your hands.”

 ~.~

[thedopesessions]

THE MICROPHONE MISFITZ: ESCAPE FROM BABYLON VOL 4- ALBUM REVIEW   

     It's funny that in Hip Hop today, especially if you are of a certain age, we end up talking about what real Hip Hop is. What we will and won't listen to. How we feel about these rappers or emcees who don't rep the culture. I say all that because as soon as we are introduced or know about artists or groups that do rep the culture, we tend to not listen to any of the music they've been supplying us for years. Now if you listen to my podcast or seen the album review i did for an album called "Escape from Babylon Vol 3" I was introduced to the group "The Microphone Misfitz" by the front man and leader  "D-Nick" I was very intrigued by him and the group. I was also intrigued by the music as well. I listened to Vol 3, I started listening to other singles and eventually got around to listening to Vol 2 and Vol 1 of their Escape from Babylon series. I got to read what accompanied the music, which is the series of comic books that we get to see with every album they release. In my review of Vol 3 I did say that I enjoyed the album, and that they reminded me of Hip Hop group "Jurassic 5" an although I dig the music and everything they have to offer, I wasn't much into "B-Boy" style of music. I said that but i also kept going back to the music, because there's a energy to it and it's not the usual or typical mainstream rap songs or albums.  That's why I keep going back to listen to more songs from them, now I get to tell you how I feel about "Escape from Babylon Vol 4"     I had many of conversations with D-Nick on the process of making this album. I remember him telling that, it was going to be very different from the way they usually do there albums. This album was co produced by Juan "Big Herc" Hernandez and features a familiar face with Femcee Filpsidee. Heavily featured songs with Emcee & Nerd core legend Mega Ran and a song that features legendary West Coast Lyricist & icon Ras Kass. So i guess the question would be, with everything they have on this album, is this album any good or do the features kill who they are? The answer to that question is that everything works on this album and then some. Sometimes when you listen to a Hip hop album and its heavily featured, you do wonder if the features would over shadow the group. Mega Ran who is featured on 5 of the 12 songs is a great piece to the songs and not some one who takes over. This is a Microphone Misfitz album, and I say that because when you have a Mega Ran on the album, you can be lost in the shuffle, but the Fitz are reppin.     If you don't believe the Fitz are superheroes then check out the first track on the album called "Super Hero Landing" because we all know that when the heroes land, it's the heroes landing that gets our attention. Those who know what I'm talking about, watch the movie "Deadpool" The thing i love the most is from The Microphone Misfitz is the wide range of topics they speak on every album. Yes, they are B-Boys and that they do rep that on songs like "Keep Watching" & "Take it From the Top" which B-Boy anthems as a call to action for the love of the B-Boy culture, and for them to get on the floor. Triggered is a song that's going to get a lot of people "Triggered" pun intended. Its a song that speaks of the now PC culture that we currently live in. It also made me reflect on how it is being a black man who has been called so many things in the book and never had the chance or the time to feel triggered and get in our feeling. the trend we see now, especially when it comes to interviews, music artist, and comedians. A song like "Space Invaders" in which could've been about an actual Invasion like the video game or a song based on the video game, but its a song about people invading you inner space. The Track "V.M.P.A." that features Femcee Flipsidee, who is a collaborator with the Fitz, fits so perfectly on this song. She gives a female perspective on the relationships and dating trends, and i love the line about how if this is how it is, then she would rather just stay home and watch Netflix. The songs "Family History" & "Power Pen" two songs that are very different but the same as far as just dope rhymes. Family history reminds me of the song from Common "I Used to Love H.E.R." talking about the the history of music and the love that D-Nick has for Hip Hop. Power Pen is just to me, a raw lyrical assault.     When i talked to D-Nick when they were making this album, there was moments where i felt that because it was other hands in the pot and he didn't know how it was going to come out. Truth is, the hands on this album is just incredible. I say that because it could've been an album where you just didn't know how it would form and come out but its to me, one of the best albums in the Microphone Misfitz catalog. The songs, beats, lyrics, everything fits perfectly. I also loved Ras Kass verse on the "Take it From The Top" I mean, of course it's Ras Kass. I've loved Ras Kass since the song he was featured in on the "Street Fighter" soundtrack and his solo album "Soul On Ice" The interludes on the album are amazing, and set up some of the songs on the album. This is a well crafted, well written, and produced album that I wish everyone would listen to. The Problem is... they won't, but will still complain about no real Hip Hop, and how the creativity is lost. Here is an album that you should listen to. Here's a group that should be on the festival circuit. They need to be celebrated. There needs to be stories about them and more coverage. The sad part is that in this particular industry we have right now i don't see it happening but i really hope not just the Nerd core and B-Boy audience will hear this album.

[furederiko]

9 MARVEL CHARACTERS I WANT TO SEE IN THE CINEMATIC UNIVERSE

Just spitballing for fun here!

To celebrate September 9th, here are 9 Marvel Heroes I would like to see making their debut in the next phase of Marvel Cinematic Universe. By MCU, that means for the movies... NOT for TV. I'm not saying because the TV side is... bad (even if I do lean towards that conclusion, it would be a subjective opinion), but I just don't think TV would be able to do justice with these characters due to various constraints (budget, VFX quality, etc).

It's already widely reported that the 2019 "UNTITLED Avengers" will serve as the culmination of MCU since 2008. That means, the door to welcome new characters and IPs would be wide open. So these are the names I would like to see getting the spotlight, and perhaps, assemble into a new set of Avengers. One might easily notice that the names I'm including here are characters from the animated "Avengers Assemble" series. That's actually... INTENTIONAL. One, because that means Marvel Studios obviously has the rights to use them (or at least partially, like the Spider-Man characters). And two, because I want this post to have a similar look and feel. But I'm NOT leaving behind other characters who have yet to show up in that series. That's why there's a special 'Bonus' section afterwards... (^^)v

Now that the explanation is out of the way, let's start right away! Here they are, in alphabetical order:

Agent Venom

Coincidentally, the first one is already a tricky situation. Eugene "Flash" Thompson is a Spider-Man character, so the rights to him is owned by SONY. That company is already working on a "Venom" movie that might not (or might?) be part of the MCU, with Tom Hardy as the lead. On the other hand, a modern-bully version of Flash has already debuted in the MCU via this year's "Spider-Man: Homecoming", as brought to life by Tony Revolori. Of course, the prospect of seeing a talented actor like Revolori becoming a headlining hero, is just too good to ignore. Mind you, it might take him a very long time (until after the high school characters graduate?) before arriving in a possible bittersweet situation (in the comics, Flash had to lose his legs first). But overall, Marvel Studios has already sown the seed for Agent Venom's debut. I can only hope this idea will be realized somewhere in the future...

Hercules

Odd choice, huh? But hear me out. We haven't had a great Hercules movie for a long time (my favorite was still Disney's animated-musical version, and it differed massively from the mythology). So why not leave it to Marvel Studios to do justice for the figure, and make a HUGE name out of him? The comic version of Hercules Panhellenios is a struggling, washed-out, unemployed hero, who spends his time slacking around and being a disappointment to others. True to his metaphorical title as a fierce male lion, huh? This situation and condition would carry massive potentials to explore in the movies. He can also take over Thor Odinson's position to expand the MCU towards more Greek-based mythological stories. Would you like to see Herc fighting Cerberus or Hydra (the monster, not the NAZI organization) in live action? I sure do. Good ol' Herc has seen a return to spotlight recently, with his own solo comic series. So what an excellent time to promote him for his own movie too! Since Chris Hemsworth and Pratt are already in the MCU (IMO, both are giving off a strong Hercules vibe!), perhaps Marvel Studios can hire... I don't know, Joe Manganiello as the lead actor?

Hyperion

Another mythological-esque hero! Unlike Hercules though, Marcus Milton has a completely different origin, being descendant of... the Eternals. Yes, the "Guardians of the Galaxy" movie series have already introduced this powerful race, which means, the route to Hyperion's debut is more or less smooth sailing. Interestingly, Hyperion is well known as part of the superhero team "Squadron Supreme". That means, if ever Marvel Studios needs a 'replacement' for the Avengers, this group is a good candidate. Just like Herc, Hyperion has returned to the limelight with a new comic series lately, eventhough it was cancelled after a few volumes. I admit, being a copy/parody of a certain DC hero, the character doesn't really have deep potentials. But that's why I trust Marvel Studios to give him the push he needed! As for the actor, for some reason, I would love to see John Krasinski in the role. Dude was considered to be Captain America before, right? And he's not another Chris. LOL.

Inferno

We're back to another tricky business. Dante Pertuz is a relatively new character, a modern version of Human Torch that FOX doesn't own. LOL. He's introduced in the recent years with the NuHumans storyline, which exactly leads to THE tricky situation. Yes, he's an Inhuman, and his origin story is deeply connected to the Inhumans Royal Family (specifically Gorgon). We all know that Marvel TV had taken over the Inhumans IP and turn it into a TV series (complete with bad writing, bad design, bad reviews *smh*). I'm VERY concerned the division would also want to capitalize on Inferno to boost the show's appeal, and I personally don't think that's a wise decision. Visual-effect wise, Mark Kolpack has admitted that creating Robbie Reyes' Ghost Rider's flaming head and chains for the 4th season of "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." was taxing and demanding. It's basically a movie-level VFX that required extra hours and patience, not something that can usually be rushed in a TV deadline. Now imagine doing that with Inferno, who emits flame from all over his body! But there's a bigger stake, here. You see, Dante's clearly a latino hero, and we haven't had one headlining an MCU movie until now. With his visual powers and relatable storyline (struggling with being Inhumans, a minority, rock star, and all), a movie would privilege Dante with the justice he deserve. I'm aware that highly likely Marvel Studios will be going with a cosmic Sam Alexander's Nova instead, and that's okay. But Inferno would be more current, if not more likeable choice.

Ka-Zar

Kevin Plunder came in to this list, with the same reason to Hercules. Because he's Marvel version of Tarzan! Hollywood has been trying to create a good Tarzan movie over and over again, and they're either an okay hit or a sad miss. As far as I know, none of them were ever able to please every audience, not even Disney's animated version. But Ka-Zar is different, because he carries more 'fantasy' than just trying to ape the King of the Jungle. The setting of his adventures, the "Savage Land" that's hidden deep in Antarctica, would be something magnificent to feature in the big screen. We've got Asgard, Kamar-Taj, Wakanda, why not add Savage Land too! Don't forget Zabu, his saber-toothed best friend, which would require massive CGI work. Suffice to say, the things I'm reading and hearing about Ka-Zar only leads to one conclusion: I want to see him in a live action movie! Now, who can portray him? Hmmm... a natural blond Brit like Charlie Hunnam, perhaps?

Ms. Marvel

All concerns I had for Dante, goes for Kamala Khan as well. Being a fellow Inhumans, there's been a rampant rumor recently that she'll be getting a TV series (supposedly the one John Ridley is working on). For me, that's a HUUUGE NOOOO. And due to THREE major reasons. ONE, similar to Inferno, TV budget won't be able to handle the VFX required to showcase her Inhuman ability with the right look and feel. Look no further than that underwhelming looking "Inhumans" series as example! Would you like to see an iconic figure like Kamala being reduced to a 'disaster' with the excuse of making her 'grounded'? You know, like what Marvel TV have already done to Medusa? I certainly DON'T. Kamala is basically the modern version of Mr. Fantastic, and we all know that even FOX have tried to do Reed Richards right in the movies several times, but still couldn't perfectly nail it. Downgrading this situation to a TV level would only make it worse. TWO, Kamala is a genuinely likeable and well-beloved character that easily captures the heart and attention of many readers throughout the world. If the 60s-90s had Peter Parker, Kamala's the youth representative for the modern world. Hip, cool, and current (being a social media freak and all), but also kind and caring... eventhough she's a triple-decker minority (Female, South Asian heritage, and Moslem) living in a racist country. Which leads me to the final reason. THREE, her story will have a MUCH BIGGER impact to the world as a movie. Releasing a Marvel Studios movie with her as the lead in an international market (including countries with Moslem as majority), would not only bank a great amount of money, but also sends the right messages: one, unlike its current government, Hollywood is NOT racist; two, that everyone can be a hero, regardless of their gender, race, and religion! Relegating a character this HUGE to a small-scoped TV series that not everyone can gain access to, would be a massive disservice. Kamala is the hero the world currently needs, so please don't undermine her into disappointments.

She-Hulk

Another tricky situation, though in this case, due to the confusing copyrights. Actor Mark Ruffalo has repeatedly said, that a Hulk solo movie won't be coming along the road because Universal has the distribution rights. What about his super-powered cousin, Jennifer Walters? It's unclear, but I can only assume that she has the same legal limitation. Thankfully, it also doesn't mean that she can't be used in a Marvel Studios movies. She just need to be included as part of an ensemble, that's all. The great thing about Jen, is that she's a lawyer and later a judge. Not only she's strong physically, but also academically. Won't that be a strong role model for young women and girls all around the world? We haven't really had a law angle in the superhero movies until now, with Daredevil occupying the Netflix universe. So bringing Jen into the light would be fresh and promising. As for who should play him, I don't have a particular choice, but someone with Award prestige like Emily Blunt, Charlize Theron, and/or Jennifer Lawrence would be a great get...

Songbird

Former villain turned Avengers? Yep, that premise alone would make a great story. Melissa Gold started off as a troubled woman, with broken family and harsh situation. Giving in to the world of crime (known as Screaming Mimi) was clearly her way to stay alive. Eventually she stumbled into the road of heroism with the Songbird moniker, and ended up becoming a full-time member of the Avengers. Just like the other characters I've included here, Melissa would be a great role model, especially for troubled teenagers. Her path of redemption proves that anyone, regardless of their past and issues, can be a hero too. An inspiring message that Marvel Studios need to share to the world. She doesn't sell enough as a solo movie? Well, then debuting her as part of the "Thunderbolts" would be equally okay for me. All the ingredients are already in the MCU anyway (Thunderbolt Ross, Helmut Zemo?). As for the actress, for some reason, I want to see Anna Kendrick in this role. Yeah, basically I just want to see her in a Marvel Studios movie, but I believe she would really bring justice to the gorgeous-designed Songbird.

White Tiger

We've already gotten an African "Black Panther", now it's time for a hispanic White Tiger! Her powers come from the mystical side, and since "Doctor Strange" has opened up the gateway to supernatural, we can have more heroes with this kind of origin story! I'm personally going with Ava Ayala, and not Angela del Toro, eventhough either of them would be wonderful. Why White Tiger? Same reason to Dante, and in a way, Kamala. Sure, the MCU have included numerous Latino actors who either got lost in the background (Jonathan Pangborn?), or turned out to be a scene stealer (looking at you Luis!!!), but we haven't really had a major hispanic hero in the MCU until now. More importantly, a female one! Debuting Ava in the MCU would also, once again, sends off a great message. The US government have been really discriminative about immigrants lately, including the hispanics. Putting Ava in the spotlight would remind everyone that South Americans CAN be heroes, and not criminals like what they're being wrongfully accused for. We truly need characters like this right away! As for who should play her, I'm currently setting my eyes on Gina Rodriquez of the hit series "Jane the Virgin".

Honorable Ment... SPECIAL ADDITIONS

The next characters are those who (as far as my memory serves) haven't made their debut in the "Avengers Assemble" series. So they sort of... didn't fulfill the basic requirement for my initial list. But it'd be unfair leaving them behind like that, right? That's why they are special 'Bonus' additions. Without further ado, in alphabetical order:

Brother Voodoo

For the record, I'm not being racist by sidelining the only black character to this section. The reason I put him here, is because his debut in the MCU movies is pretty much confirmed. Daniel Drumm, big brother to Jericho Drumm, has already made his appearance in "Doctor Strange" as the original protector of New York Sanctum Santorum. And director Scott Derrickson has already hinted that his death would lead to consequences, including the arrival of Jericho. Debuting Jericho as a sort of sidekick to Stephen Strange would be nice, but it would be much better if he gets his own movie too. Yes, there's an issue regarding his name, because using Voodoo might... well, attract criticsm. But titles can be tweaked, right? Considering Jericho ends up becoming a Sorcerer Supreme too, I believe he'll be perfect as the next black hero to headline his own movie.

Shang-Chi

I've already repeatedly mentioned that Marvel Studios NEED a major hero representing minorities, and this is another great candidate. Marvel Studios have brought several prominent Asian characters into the MCU, like Wong, Mantis (eventhough she's an alien), and Helen Cho. Yet they all share similar characteristic: they are all supporting cast. If Marvel Studios want to play it 'safe' and headline an East Asian lead character, then Shang-Chi is the go-to-guy. Nope, I'm not undermining him, but just pointing out how easy he would appeal to the audience. Shang-Chi is in a way, Marvel Comics' response to Bruce Lee. We all know that the world LOVES some Bruce Lee. And Shang is more than just a Bruce Lee copy, he's also a master of espionage who's determined to take down his own father's criminal empire. Pretty much a solid recipe for a James Bond-styled wuxia blockbuster hit, am I right! "Doctor Strange" has teased the use of martial arts to support magic, a hero like Shang would put it upfront as the star of the party. Marvel TV might have taken the stamp on Iron Fist (with mixed response), so Shang is the opportunity for Marvel Studios to do it RIGHT! Jon Woo, Ang Lee, or Jacky Chan can direct this, and as for the actor, Godfrey Gao is my top pick. But Ludi Lin, Philip Ng (star of the fictional Bruce Lee biopic "Birth of the Dragon"), or even Yoshi Sudarso (who is Chinese-Indonesian) would be fantastic nonetheless.

Spider-Woman

The last tricky affair of the day! Jessica Drew is called Spider-Woman, but she uses the 'Spider' moniker by name only, and unrelated to Spider-Man. That's why until now, it's currently unclear whether her movie rights is owned by SONY or not. She's actually one of the superheroine I've been itching to see in the MCU, but admittedly, these questions surrounding her place always put me on a weird crossroad. Drew is connected to Hydra, the High Evolutionary, and has always been a full-blown Avengers. And all of those screams MCU. She's also the best friend of Carol Danvers, so I honestly want to see her show up in "Captain Marvel". Her comic origin story sort of fits with "Captain Marvel" 90s setting too. Have Jessica encounter Carol when she was a child, then Jessica was put into stasis for years, only to wake up as a superpowered woman in the present day. And then she meets Carol again, and team up as the new Avengers. All's well ends well! I personally want to see Tatiana Maslany of the famous "Orphan Black" for this character, but Marvel Studios can always cast an Asian actress (like Constance Wu or Celina Jade) due to Drew's ambiguous background.

Young Avengers

This one initially started off with just William "Billy" Kaplan and partner Theodore "Teddy" Altman. A sweet pairing more famously known as Wiccan and Hulkling. My way of thinking was, it'd be rude and unfair to name just one of them, right? If Marvel Studios wants to go ahead and feature an LGBT representation, these guys are the one they should use. Is it possible? There's a hint that we'll be seeing Vision and Wanda Maximoff's relationship evolve in "Avengers: Infinity War". Perhaps somehow they end up bending reality, and Billy is magically conceived? Meanwhile, "Captain Marvel" confirmed that the alien race Skrull CAN be used in the MCU, so a half Kree-Skrull (his biological father is the original/male Captain Marvel) like Teddy is more than just possible. Basically, that movie is the only gateway needed for his debut in the MCU.

But then I began thinking. Why am I leaving behind Billy's twin brother Thomas "Tommy" Shepherd? Poor Pietro Maximoff was killed off in just one movie, why am I sidelining another Speed-ster? That's NOT right. Then the more I think of it, the bigger the scope gets. We have a Hawkeye and Ant-Man who are both fathers in the MCU. Why not include their protege/child? Katherine "Kate" Bishop might not be Clint Barton's daughter, but the two shared a special connection that would be great to depict on the big screen. And then there's Cassandra "Cassie" Lang who looks up to her father Scott, and aspires to be a size-shifting heroine of her own. Cassie has already debuted in the MCU as played by Abby Ryder Fortson, why not promote her into a hero too? And how could I miss out the lesbian latina America Chavez? Fitting in comfortably to all the diversity talk I've stated above, America is not only female, latina, she's also an LGBT representative. Another triple-decker like Kamala. JACKPOT!

So yeah, that's how I ended up with Young Avengers instead. If Marvel TV has "The Runaways", then Marvel Studios can have these equally (if not more prospective) young heroes! If we assume that we will no longer see the Avengers following the 2019 movie, then introducing the Young Avengers would be the most logical continuation. This movie doesn't even to take place in the present time, but a bit further in the future, or even in an alternate reality. That's the function of Reality Stone and Multi-verse, right? This team represents youth, fun, and diversity, sending all the right messages to the world. And at the same, enabling older actors like Jeremy Renner, Paul Rudd, Benedict Cumberbatch and others to serve briefly as mentor figures. There's also one other reason why this special team ends up being the last entry on this post (which is unintentional, to be honest): because I REALLY want them to show up in the MCU! \(*v*)/

So there you have it, the 9 (plus 4+) Marvel Heroes I want to see coming to the big screen. In the end though, this is nothing more than a personal opinion. It's obviously a very subjective thinkpiece, so anyone else might not have the same idea (if you do have your take, then do post them, I'd gladly read it!). I do however, hope that someone, anyone from Marvel Studios would somehow stumble upon this, read it, and put these names into considerations. I sincerely feel they will bring something NEW to the MCU, while continue conveying message of hope, inspiration, kindness, and good. After all, that's what Marvel Studios movies are for, right? Thanks for reading... enjoy your September 9th! Even if it might be just a regular day for most of us... XD

[simba-bonfamille-lyons]

☾ ♥ ● ♦

I put this under a readmore bc it’s LONG AS FUCK im sorry

☾: Favorite moment from your Muse's canon, and why. (If your Muse is an OC, then favorite aspect of their story.)

i love this question.

Belle: my fave is def the scene where she’s taking care of the Beast after the wolves attack them and he gets all grumpy and she Shuts That Shit Down. i take so much of my inspo for belle from that scene alone tbh--but i also do love the opening sequence and how could you not love I WANT ADVENTURE IN THE GREAT WIDE SOMEWHEREEEE

Simba: ugh, so many good moments, but the best scenes in the whole movie are def the stars scene with mufasa and when simba sees rafiki. i also LOVE LOVE nala and simba’s reunion. also, ofc, okay this part is def my fave: the running back to pride rock UGH THAT SCENE

Toulouse: FFT FFT FFT!! that was legit the only part of the movie i remembered from watching it as a little kid. also when he and ber are fighting on the piano, i love that scene, it’s so cute.

Bambi: the part where thumper and bambi are like hanging out and thumper is teaching bambi to say shit. and he’s like BIRD BIRD BIRD BIRD and he’s walking along following this lil butterfly, ugh so precious my darling.

Perdita: gosh there is not a lot of canon perdy tbh but i do love her and anita’s relationship. also when she’s kickin ass and taking names to save her babies. also how she really doesn’t want to get covered in coal and pongo says “c’mon perdy time to put on your make up!” 

Sweet: everything?? about him??? he’s so great?? all his lines?? but i love the part where he’s taking care of the old king the best bc before that moment he’s kind of been liek quippy and comic relief but u get to really see his compassion and strength and steadiness in that scene and i love it.

Maui: his backstory, definitely. that was what made me really interested in playing him bc he totally models slyth but is actually a big ole puff and just wants people to love him. also i like the scene where he leaves moana after she Fucks Up (tm) i know that’s probably a weird scene to love but idk i thought it was super interesting.

Hercules: alskdjfladjkflaskjdfljfl EVERYTHING ABOUT HIM?? herc is just my precious darling. but i love how awkward he is but then how FIERCE he gets when he’s protecting people. like you think what a soft marshmellow how is he a hero and then when faced with danger he RISES and it just always warms my heart. my fave is the hydra scene bc that’s the first time he’s like rly sUCCESSFUL as a hero and it’s such a good fight and he uses his strength to his ADVANTAGE ugh i lvoe hercules.

Attina: ahaha she also doesn’t have a lot of canon, but def my favorite is when they find out that ariel has been #gettindown at the club and attina is like NO ABSOLUTELY NOT and hten everyone makes puppy faces at her and she caves so easily. i based a lot of her character on that. like she seems like a hardass but she’s rly not she wants her sisters to be HAPPY

Akela: gosh, he really does not have a lot of canon to go off of at all, in either movie. i’m gonna say the Law of the Jungle. That’s really important to his development in my head. also the scene in the live-action with grey where he tells him that the runts get eaten sometimes bc it’s like the only time he’s not the Serious Alpha but to me it just showed this like softer side to him? that was playful--and i based a lot of his character on that.

♥: One thing you love about your Muse.

Belle: laksdjflkajdf what don’t i love about belle? i mean as a character as a whole i love how inspiring she was to all young girls who loved to read and encouraging girls to be SMART and not be SHY about it. to EMBRACE their bRAINS which is such an important lesson for young girls. and i really love that about my belle too. that she is very demure about a lot of things but DO NOT QUESTION HER INTELLIGENCE. it is the one thing she will unflinchingly defend about herself and i don’t think we see that enough in female characters.

Simba: i love how much simba loves himself. i make fun of it quite a bit, bc he can be so over the top with it, but i really appreciate his level of self-care because that’s something i struggle with. like--not so much confidence, i have a decent amount of that but just, he really does take care of his overall physical health. he exercises, he showers, he eats properly (tho i mean he eats a lot too and lets himself indulge which is important). but he like idk keeps his beard trimmed and takes care of his skin and this sounds like a really weird thing to admire but since i struggle w depression, it’s nice to see ppl who function normally even tho he also struggles w depression. ALSO i love his flirting. haha. inspires me to be a better flirt.

Toulouse: kind of self care too, in a way? i love that lou is unapologetic about who he is, even when he doesn’t like himself. and he really does take care of himself before anyone else. like he does not let other’s opinions (except his siblings) influence his decisions and that’s something i struggle with. it actually makes lou one of my most genuine characters, because if he is sweet to you, if he helps you, if he protects you, he’s doing it because he wants to, not out of any obligation. as someone who struggles to say “no” to people, it’s admirable.

Bambi: ahaha honestly there isn’t much i admire about bambi. not because he’s a bad person but because he’s a teen who is still finding himself and struggling with a lot of self loathing and is in that place in his life where he is making mistakes. but, i do like that, writing him, im getting a--chance to look back and rexamine teenhood from a new perspective which is interesting and fun.

Perdita: i love how FIERCE she is. i always say perdita’s attitude is mine if i didn’t care about what people thought of me and that’s definitely true. i love that the first impression that paul got from her was she didn’t care what anyone thinks BUT i love that she really actually does too bc it just adds so much dynamic.

Sweet: gosh i love how level-headed he is. as someone who is temperamental i really appreciate characters like sweet and poca and haku who are very centered and strong and sturdy. i appreciate their calm presence in my head. i also LVOE how poetic writing him is. he’s one of my characters i feel like i can indulge lyrically in my words with the most.

Maui: i love how conflicted maui is. i love that he has this really stark duality to him and is much more than his cocky exterior and he genuinely really does care about people, not just about the attention, though that is a big draw. i also love what a BOY he is. it’s really fun to play him walking that line of fuckboi and genuine person.

Hercules: what a PRECIOUS MUFFIN HE IS. i just love the whole super strength but has no way to control it thing. it’s just a great duality to play with. like he is so gentle and so afraid of hurting people but has this awesome power. he’s just very precious to me just so sweet and good and pure. 

Attina: my self indulgent bae ahaha. i love that she’s a MERMAID i love that she’s so bubbly. i don’t have any BUBBLY characters. and she’s so happy and smiley. i mean, simba is kinda like that both of them just Radiate Joy. and i also love playing sisters. i love love the family dynamic and the fact that there is so many of them, because it just leads to such RICH character development. i love what a romantic she is. i love how soft and kind but how protective. how scared but how brave. ugh my beeb

Akela: he’s another really calm person. i love that akela doesn’t linger on his mistakes. he has regrets. he acknowledges when he’s done something wrong and then--wait for it--HE MOVES ON. he doesn’t dwell. he doesn’t beat himself up. he picks himself up and dust himself off and moves on. which is so refreshing bc most of my characters are wallowers ahhaa

●: If you could say just one thing to your Muse, what would it be?

Belle: GIRL I S2G GET SOME FUCKIN SELF CONFIDENCE it just really annoys me that she needs to be poked and prodded into feeling good about herself bc she’s so BRAVE AND STRONG AND KIND AND WONDERFUL she’s perfect and she SHOULD KNOW THAT SHE IS WORTH GOOD THINGS

Simba: honey, stop, trying, to, please, everyone,, it’s not gonna work and you’re just gonna wind up making a mess of things. also i love you /pets

Toulouse: i s2g i have so many things that i could say to toulouse but if i could ever interact w some real form of him u know what i would do? i would give him a goddamn hug. just a good, long hug where he can put his lil head on my shoulder and just relax. he craves physical affection ppl

Bambi: i would give him support about his choices and tell him it’s okay to be afraid but he should be brave too bc being brave is the best fuck u to all the people who want to scare you.

Perdita: i understand why you did what you did and i don’t blame you for it. 

Sweet: keep doin you babe

Maui: IT’S OKAY YOU CHEATED JUST LIVE UP TO IT NOW (also you are real hot and we should date)

Hercules: embrace ur powers lil honey u are wonderful

Attina: relax babe you should take care of YOURSElF (she won’t listen to me)

Akela: i’m sorry about your family *gives him snuggles*

♦: Relationship with your Muse.

im gonna answer this like “how does the muse come about” kinda deal bc this question is weird

Belle: well her voice comes so easily to me i love it except it’s SO thinky. she is always who i write the longest posts on bc she just examines everything but i love it bc i so do not think like that but it opens my mind to interesting thought processes i haven’t explored myself before. though i also edit her the most bc her dialogue is SO HARD. it’s getting better tho as she gets more confident but it only takes one set back to go back to stuttering and holding her tongue.

Simba: gosh. i love his voice. it’s so COLORFUL. i can write simba all day because even in his darkest moments he is so BRIGHT and he feels everything so deeply. i love his background. i love writing about africa and islam and how he is bisexual and his race (but in the little things like how he has sensitive skin and likes movies like Hairspray lol). he’s really so different from me in so many ways, but he’s also an accumulation of like all the men in my life i’ve admired so he has a v special place in my heart.

Toulouse: gosh i love toulouse. idk his voice comes SO naturally to me. he is, without a doubt, the character i just instinctually know the best. i can’t even explain it but he just popped into my head completely formed. i knew everything about him almost immediately and even the things that came later just fell into place so easily. i just love him because he is so complicated and dynamic and feels so deeply while also having a really complicated relationship with those emotions. writing him is both frustrating bc he always makes the same mistakes, but very easy for me.

Bambi: ugh i love bam. he’s another one that i just loved from the start. i wanted him for so so long before i actually got him and he just mad sense to me. i love his shyness. i like writing his view of the world since he def has so much influence from books and movies and he thinks in like tropes a lot and i’ve never written like that before and it’s super fun.

Perdita: i love how concise she is. i love all the sharp language i get to use with her. how every sentence i feel like i hit the period mark really fiercely. every sentence is important and to the point. she doesn’t like meander and as someone with flowy writing it’s nice to be able to know that i can do shorter stuff.

Sweet: UGH i love the poetry to his voice. making him a poet was a great move on my part bc i just looooove it. i love his voice. how calm. how gentle. how wise. and beautiful tbh. also all his experience is really fun to write. he’s like a fully formed person.

 Maui: i think i mentioned this but what a BOY he is. i love it. i love being able to play with the line between saying shitty sexist things but not knowing they’re shitty and sexist and really being a (mostly) genuine person but not always kosher or PC or anything like that.

Hercules: im still getting used to his voice but i really like how much he curses lmao he is like FUCK FUCK FUCK in his head at all times and i love that bc he’s so soft and smol and it’s such a funny contrast. also i get to play with humor and irony a lot with him and that’s fun. hopefully i can do more allusions to mythology once i start working with his powers more and that’ll be fun

Attina: i love her OCD. i think it makes for really interesting writing because people with OCD repeat phrases and stuff a lot and always having to be hyperaware of her actions like--remembering she doesn’t like to touch people and remembering that she locks the door nine times and that she doesn’t eat food from public places. it just really plants me in her head every time i write her.

Akela: his connection to nature. tbh being able to play as a wolf im ngl. but also a LEADER that people RESPECT AND LISTen TO. also i love how his voice is sad but not depressingly so. so it makes it really interesting to write like balancing all that emotional with his cool, level-headness.