#i really can't wait to show you guys where this journey goes next

[londonhalcyon]

I just HAD to drop everything and draw this moment in the story.

That was such a wonderful chapter to read at 3 a.m. All the more wonderful that this story’s been three years in the making and still going for what’s yet to come. Hasn’t been that long since I stumbled upon “The Mad Witch”, but like I’ve said before, SO happy I did. Love it to bits, love Mérula and Lily to bits and I can’t wait for where you take yer story London!

Happy Three Years! Your honour, these witches are in love! <3

[submission by @therodrigator6]

[musithical]

Songbird's Voyage

Those of you following me over on YouTube or Twitter may have noticed a new character appearing as the face of my most recent song. I didn't have all the details worked out yet so I wanted to hold off on going too in depth about them, but I am happy to say that I finally have some more info ready to share with you all!

First of all, I would like to once again thank @aziebites for designing this character for me to use, it did an amazing job. Originally, the character was meant to just be for the one song, but Azie did such an amazing job that it inspired me to elaborate on the character and their story.

What is this project?

Well, after my last album, I wanted to go back to my roots and try to come up with a concept album. However, that's going to take a LOT longer than a normal album of mine would, and I don't want to just stop releasing music in the meantime. As such, this new project is going to be released episodically with each song acting as a fraction of the total story. Then, all the songs will be compiled into an album for streaming after they've all released on YouTube.

The reason for this is to allow me to take my time with the project and deliver a level of quality beyond what I normally would, forcing myself to make sure every song can stand on it's own. But even beyond that, it allows me to still release individual songs without having to also be working on an album at the same time. I do all of this in addition to my day job, so it can be a lot of energy to try to make so much all the time.

The reason I chose to release it like this goes beyond just logistics, too. Those of you who have been following me for a while know I hold a special place in my heart for cartoons and the culture surrounding the early 2000s. As such, I like to think of this staggered release schedule as similar to waiting for a new episode of your favorite show to come out.

Who is Songbird?

I won't share too much as a lot of Songbird's journey is abstract and the beginning of their story is suppose to be a mystery, but I'll share this blurb from the album description: "As we know it, existence is composed of different lands that sort of float in an endless void that we call Nothingness. Because of this isolation, each land has grown and evolved in very different ways. You know others solely like us, but we have friends from all kinds of different lands. Like Marina in the land of water spirits, or the old innkeeper at the edge of time.

So now, you wonder how we get to the other lands, right? Well that's where the River Dragons come in. The rivers that run through each land are so strong, they cut right through the Nothingness. People like you and I are too weak to swim through the rivers, as they would simply toss us into the void. But the dragons' scales protect them from the water, and if you are kind like them, they let you ride on their backs and take you to other lands."

When can I expect the next song?

That's the fun part; you can't!

Joking aside, I do have an outline of how to story will go, but actually getting each song written and produced for something of this caliber is going to take time, and I can't predict how long will be between each installment. Additionally, I want to try to get art made for each song which will take time for the artists as well. Luckily, I have a reliable circle of people now who I know I can go to for the art, so it's just a matter of money really.

However, if you do want to try to help speed things up, I have a few options. I recently paused my Patreon after a series of events that left me unable to keep up with it, but I will be resuming that sometime soon. I also have a Ko-Fi where you can donate if you want. I will probably keep up with that much more actively:

That's all for now! I hope you guys are looking forwards to the rest of this project! Thanks for your support and if you haven't already, go listen to "FREAK"!

[featureenvyproductions]

NEW PROJECT SPAMS

hi 👋

do you guys wanna see the stuff I'm working on for my new animation I decided to do? well I can't hear you through the screen so I'll assume yes and also time for info dump (below, after the drawing, in case you don't care). TLDR version is I'm making a thing where some people go to mars. I think I finally worked out a descent module and the shit attached to it, which I'll info dump about in a sec for now look at my sub par 95% free handed scribbles (I'm too lazy to find a ruler but I used the edge of a book for the solar panels). I do plan to revise this I think but this is draft 1.

K so what the fuck is this. So I have some people goin to mars in my animation - a collab between future nasa and future roscosmos. I know I could literally make this look like anything and absolutely ZERO people would care but like I HAD TO PUT A LITTLE THOUGHT INTO IT OR I WAS GONNA DIE OK. I basically absorbed videos and facts on soyuz capsules until I started dreaming exclusively about plunging into a desert in a tiny metal box and then I figured it was enough and ok wait back up ej we gotta toss some background info out there.

Ok tldr I thought about this mission my people are going on bc even though I'm not gonna include all this exposition in the story, it helps me guide the design of shit bc I'm not that creative lol. The reason it looks so much like the soyuz is basically because in my story this spacecraft is made by Russia and the one thing I notice is that their designs don't really seem to change drastically over time. They're just like "yeah this works" and then they do that really fucking well forever and honestly I get it and this story only takes place 15-20 years in the future so I borrowed a bit

So just a high level overview. The characters are leaving from Earth in this much smaller spacecraft that will dock with a bigger space-station-like vehicle already in orbit around earth that actually does the bulk of the journey. Part of the reason for this is the trade off is a journey 6 months of horrible radiation, near-zero-g, and conventional fuel OR a better but scarier rocket and a much shorter transfer. I went with the better rocket - a nuclear rocket. They'll get there in 45 days but the trade off is if something goes wrong it REALLY REALLY goes wrong. Thus the reason they're not using nuclear rockets earlier to leave the atmosphere.

Anyway tldr they're docking with a bigger ship.

This is the thing they take up to the bigger ship from earth (minus the first couple rocket stages but I won't really be showing that part of the journey so I didn't draw them). There are a couple different parts. The round one is the orbital module bc i figure they'll be headed quite a ways away to dock with the main ship and theyre gonna need a place to hang out and live and whatever.

The next one and the important one is the descent module.

Now I did kinda like I said base this on the soyuz BUT there are some notable differences which you can see in action in the side of the image at the top of this post if you squint. Mars has a tricky atmosphere. It's really thin. I gotta admit like I really have no fucking idea how to design airfoils for this, much less a descent capsule. But I did read a couple papers/watched some gifs of boundary layer separation over airfoils or whatever and I looked at some of the reasoning behind why say the Mars science laboratory aeroshell and the ingenuity rotor blades are weird looking compared to stuff that's designed for our atmosphere. It boils down to it's just harder to generate lift (big shocker).

My guys would run into the same problem coming down in a capsule, but I made it so that it's a little wider/flatter and sharper than the current generation soyuz capsules. I also added more control thrusters to it because these people will have to get themselves out of the capsule and won't have help, so it needs to be oriented correctly. If they're tipping to one side and approaching some weird rocks or whatever, they can blast those things and right themselves a bit hopefully. Yeah having a thruster array on either side kinda fucks up the airflow but like I need these for the plot. More on that later. I mean maybe I don't. I'm still thinking about it. If I decide this is a stupid idea I won't put them there but like I said draft 1 no one roast me too hard

Other than that it's pretty boring. I've got a Massive parachute (though who knows how much help thatll be. ) and some retrorockets that start firing as soon as they get close to the surface to try and cushion the landing.

Oh yeah and the other part here is just the instruments/solar panels/main propulsion tanks/thrusters. This is necessary so the module can power up at the end of the journey after the big ship enters a low mars orbit. It'll separate from the big ship and then perform a braking maneuver to ultimately enter the atmosphere and land.

Anyway I'm sorry I know like .5 people care about these info dumps however I'm not sorry enough to not do it and it will happen again

[bewareofthenewphannie]

Hello friend! It’s been a while and now that we’re all just anxiously waiting I figured I’d send you an ask.

First of all, HAPPY WAD DAY! How are you feeling about the show?? Are you hyped?? I cannot wait for you to see this masterpiece, I’d love to hear all of your thoughts afterwards.

How have you been doing on your phannie journey? Any interesting new discoveries? Fun comfort videos or live streams that you’ve come across? I’d love a little update on that.

Do you still feel like a new phannie? Or have you integrated in the phandom so much that you’re really starting to just feel like part of all the madness instead of a newbie who’s somewhat of an outsider?

Have you been enjoying how active they’ve been? And generally how deranged they’re being in many ways? As an older phannie it does scare me quite a lot I will forever be a little scared that they could just abandon us, even though I know deep down they probably won’t, at least not without proper warning this time.

Any hills that you’re joining? Wedding hill? Dog hill (or perhaps cat hill)? Or other delusional theories that you’re really into right now?

I hope you have time to answer this super long ask. Enjoy the slittening and see you on the other side!

Hellooo there, lovely to hear from you :)

I do, in fact, have way too much time to answer this, so strap yourself in!

How are you feeling about the show? Are you hyped?

Oh trust me, I am soso hyped. Like, internally screaming hyped. I've seen bits and pieces of it and heard you guys and dan (and phil) talking about it and ahhh, I can't wait to finally see it. I know it will be so dan and I know I will love it and I am so incredibly proud of him for making it. Then Phil in the pre-show and The Slittening will just be pure fun, I'm also so looking forward to that. And! Dan yapping during the q&a will be great, so another thing to be hyped for.

I know it'll be such a good evening, I am so excited.

How have you been doing on your phannie journey? Any interesting new discoveries? Fun comfort videos or live streams that you’ve come across?

Okay, soo, there's a lot of new things I've discovered. Because no matter how much I see it just doesn't seem to stop (not complaining though).

A few weeks ago I had a phase where I listened to all of the promo podcasts dan did for ywgttn/wad because I just really wanted to hear him talk and since these mfers don't have their own podcast (yet...) that was the next best thing. So now I feel like I could answer any interview questions surrounding ywgttn. I had a great time though and it was especially funny to see the different hosts trying to press dan into whichever theme they have for their podcast.

Oh, and I impulsively bought ywgttn. I'm slowly working my way through it and it is kind of pretty good.

I recently watched more of their old solo content because I had neglected that a bit before and a fun thing I've started doing whenever I stumble across an old video that makes me go huh is checking people's archives here on tumblr to see what their live reaction was, which is really fun. it's so interesting to see all of it in retrospective, knowing what we know now.

Speaking of the fandom, I started reading fanfics...quite a lot of them and there are some pretty good ones out there (although I fear I am a bit spoiled by the abundancy of just downright amazing fics in the merlin fandom).

I also finally watched the mark of oxin, which is probably one of my favourite game-related things they've done. It has the undertale vibes (which I absolutely adore by the way) but paired with phil kind of guiding dan through it and dan being so blatantly proud of young phil - so yeah, that one definitely goes on the list of comfort videos.

Do you still feel like a new phannie? Or have you integrated in the phandom so much that you’re really starting to just feel like part of all the madness instead of a newbie who’s somewhat of an outsider?

I had to think about this for a moment and I think the right answer is that I do sometimes feel new to this - but so does everyone else. What I mean by this is that they keep pushing boundaries, doing things they wouldn't have done before. This is a new era for everyone and so I feel like I'm right in the middle of it along with everyone else.

Overall I do think I have settled in. I get the references now, I get the gravity behind certain things, and even though I wasn't here for it I feel like I understand the journey it took to get where we are now.

(a funny thing I noticed while rewatching some of the first videos I watched from them is just how out of the loop I was at the beginning. I didn't even consider that half of the jokes and references were flying over my head. well, but I did get there in the end. still not fully though.)

Also, most importantly probably, I have been talking to some people here (to the best of my ability) (sorry), which I really enjoy. It makes me feel like I genuinely am part of this community.

(if anyone's still reading this and wants to talk to me, please always feel free to message me!)

slightly related, I feel like I should change my name because it doesn't feel fully accurate anymore but I think I've grown attached.

Have you been enjoying how active they’ve been? And generally how deranged they’re being in many ways?

I have! I'm on winter break right now and just got knee surgery (which went well by the way), which means I have a lot of time and can't really walk right now, so this has been a really good thing to keep me occupied. and it's nice to have something to be excited for.

but on the other hand, I fully understand your apprehension, because it does feel like almost too much. I am almost certain that they will slow down a little after wad (at least I hope so. for their sake.).

But overall, and I think I've said this every single time you've asked me something so far, I am so glad I discovered them when I did. I've had enough time to get to know them so I can now fully apprechiate and enjoy all of their unhingedness. And die a little bit every single time. Did I already mention I'm scared for april fools?

Any hills that you’re joining? Wedding hill? Dog hill (or perhaps cat hill)? Or other delusional theories that you’re really into right now?

I will admit, I am still a bit careful around most types of theories and wedding-related hills, partially because I don't feel fully qualified to join the conversation, partially because it feels a bit much to me personally, but I do very much think the debate is entertaining to watch so please keep going.

now. pets. I know they won't get a cat because they have been hinting at dogs awfully much (I also don't think they'll get a dog in the near future but who know what will happen further down the line). but. I want them to get a cat. maybe I'm biased because I just generally think cats are superior to dogs, but it'd be so perfect for them. like, even all the practical aspects aside, they clearly love cats and the vibe would just fit so perfectly. just imagine a cat strolling around in the background of dapg video. perfect. but oh well, I've kind of given up hope on that.

okayy, that's it from me I think, if you want me to elaborate on anything, go ahead and ask! I really can't wait to see wad later and I'm sure it must be especially surreal for you, considering you were actually there when it was recorded.

I feel like we'll all end up crying tonight and it'll be an honor to do it alongside all of you <3

[bengiyo]

Never Let Me Go Ep 10 Stray Thoughts

Last week, our time on the beach came to an abrupt and painful end as Mam lost her life trying to protect her son. Neungdiao spent one final evening with Palm before drugging him and leaving him alone. Meanwhile, Ben learned about Chopper's dad's violence, and gave Chopper an ultimatum.

Ah, we're seeing more of that night. I do love when shows do this. It feels far more bittersweet.

Oh, Neungdiao. It's so sad that the only way he thinks he can cherish someone is to keep them as far away from him as possible.

How big is this tub?? These are not small boys. I just know hair and makeup is so nervous that water will touch their heads.

I like the harsh cut to Neungdiao alone within the same audio track. Connects the two scenes and turns up the melancholy by letting us know Neungdiao was reminiscing.

Of course we can't skimp on the product placement. Can't go to war if you ain't cute. Make sure you moisturize that face.

Episode Title: Me

Oh good. Neungdiao can do a proper Windsor knot.

Oh but Neungdiao's guards look sloppy. WTF, guys?

Back in this office, and Kit has planted his ass firmly on the throne he thinks should be his.

I love how the conversations in this office get uglier and less veiled as the show goes on. Nuengdiao has a temper, and it is being tightly controlled here.

I was hoping we'd get a scene where Nuengdiao went to check on his mother's condition. He can't leave her unprotected now that he's declared war on his uncle and Phuwin is pretty good at these kinds of somber scenes.

112/67 is pretty good for blood pressure.

Of course he goes to Palm's room at night. He's made the lonely choice, but he's a man that yearns.

Oh, I'm loving these memories of their time on the island. I also like that Nuengdiao is a nerd in his own memories as he regales Palm in details about a study he read. Info dumping as flirtation is underutilized.

I like how Palm flirts back with Nuengdiao by using the knowledge he just gave him.

Oh, Nuengdiao. What will you do with the bed and clothes no longer smell like him?

Poor, Chopper. You may have an incredible actor playing you, but Nuengdiao isn't wrong to mistrust you.

They use Pawin's height and Phuwin's stature really well in this pool scene. Nuengdiao is feeling himself how, so he towers over Phum.

Nuengdiao being honest with his subordinates about his limitations, and encouraging them to share their ideas, is a nice scene. Helps us understand the extent of his ego.

Okay, so Woo paid them and that's how we got the phone. I'm glad that got cleared up.

For once, I like that the suit seems slightly off.

"I want to give my boyfriend a ride, too." 🥴

The driver has been waiting five minutes for this face journey to end.

Uh oh, Ben is death flagging on this redemption signalling. He is right though, Nuengdiao is harsh.

Chopper is going to end up killing his dad to protect Ben and Nuengdiao.

Finally, we're trying to help Chanon.

You just knew Palm wouldn't stay away. But also, where are Nuengdiao's current guards and how did Palm get past them?

I love Phuwin; you can feel the ache coming off of him in Palm's presence.

So these other bodyguards didn't notice Palm tailing Nuengdiao for two weeks? Fired.

Oh, gay boys and their moms.

Palm pulled out that bracelet and was like, "Don't make me tell you twice."

Ugh, I just knew someone was spying. Seriously, these new guards are so bad.

I just don't see Palm turning on Nuengdiao, so I'm excited to see how that threat unfolds in the next episode.

[hwrryscherry]

The one where Harry & Model Y/N do a interview together.

NOT MY GIF

blurb: Harry and Model Y/N do their first ever interview together on the Late Late Show with James Corden and they play "Spill Your Guts or Fill Your Guts".

word count: 2.12K

I loved this concept SO much!!! And I really hope you guys like it too. Thank you anon for requesting this😍😍😍

The Late Late Show with James Corden producers called you and Harry trying to book you both to be on the show and to an interview together. You have to admit it that you got nervous; of course you had been through tons of interviews before but to do a double interview with Harry is a whole new level. You both are really private about your relationship and it's kinda rare to actually see one of you talking details of it, and it also had something to do about the larries fans. You were really concerned about them, you never want to disrespect them or even upset them in some way, even though some of them made fun of your relationship, they're still Harry's fans and you respect all of his fans without exception. But anyway, after a lot of talking between your management and between both of you too, you agreed to go and also felt a lot more comfortable because it was going to be with James, that was already friends of you guys.

It was set up that you both will be playing a game in the show called ''Spill your guts or fill your guts'', which actually worried you a little because of the hard questions but besides that, you were really calm, Harry made you calm. He was so great at calming you, I think it's the fact that those past 2 years you both had been through ups and downs and you got quite great at calming each other. And by the way, your man looked SO nice! You were kinda matching actually, as you both were wearing grey. You were in a grey suit and Harry had a grey sweater on looking stunning.

James called both of you on stage and you entered smiling and waving to the crowd as yoi walked towards James's direction. Harry gave him a big hug and you followed by hugging James as well. You both sat in the couch besides James's desk as the crowd got more silenced.

— It's so great to have you here! — James said to you both as he sat down on his chair — Honestly, I really thought you wouldn't accept!

— Oh, Y/N didn't want to! — Harry said quickly making you give him a slightly slap on his arm — Sorry, we had to discuss it! — Harry corrected himself making the crowd and James laugh.

— I never said I didn't want to! I said WE HAD to discuss it! — You corrected him making an emphasis on the ''we had''.

— Alright that's acceptable! Anyway — James looked at the papers on his hand and then back at you — How are you guys doing? I feel like I haven't seen you both in months because you always disappear!

— We've been good! — Harry said while playing with his rings in his hand. You crossed your legs as James stared at you. You couldn't help but start laughing a little because he was fixedly looking at you at that made you a little nervous!

— Yeah, we're pretty good! It's been a nice year! — You answered honestly — And we don't disappear! We just... I mean, I feel like there are times when we actually kinda get away from the world a bit. I truly don't know why. We just focus on spending some quality time together as a couple because we both work so much and we spend a lot of time traveling so it's something really important to keep the relationship stable. And we do it specially in the begging of the year, because that's when we celebrate our anniversary, so I guess it's just a habit that we have to disconnect and enjoy our time together so we can just focus on us and what we expect from the relationship on the following year. And it's the best time to do it because the holidays just happened and he have a little no work time to really be just us.

— Oh right! And how long have you been together by the way? — James asked, he actually knew the answer of that because you're all pretty great friends and you and Harry actually hangs out a lot with James and his wife.

— It's been two years now! — You answered.

— Yeah, it's been a bit now! — Harry completed.

— Oh so, you both weren't dating on the VS Show 2017? Because there were a lot of rumors by the end of the show! — James asked.

— We were not! We actually met at the VS, we took a long time to actually start dating, we started dating in early january 2018, I guess — Harry answered as he slided his hand on his perfectly styled hair.

— Oh, I see... And do you guys plan the future? — James asked making you and Harry exchange looks while smiling at each other — Oh, I like that look... Marriage? Kids? We ALL want to know!

— I mean... yeah! It's almost impossible to be this long in a relationship and not plan it! — Harry said — And I feel like we enjoy a lot of the time we spent together, it's been quite a journey and it's nice to have someone that you really care about and you want to have a future with by your side at some of the most important moments of your life, but I think we both agree that we still have a lot of things to experience before taking this step, you know, the marriage step. But yeah, I can't wait for a time when this is going to be a thing for us! I'd marry her in a heart beat and she knows it! — Harry said. He looked focused while talking but as soon as he felt your gaze towards him, he blushed and started smiling like a little boy who just got his favorite candy.

— So, you won't pop the question anytime soon? — James asked teasing Harry about his reaction over your gaze. As James were close friends with you guys, he knew how much you loved each other and actually everyone could see how Harry kisses the floor you walk by. He is head over heels for you and he melted anytime your hand touched him and anytime you smiled or even looked at him. Everyone who was close to you guys would know that you're the one for him and he's the one for him.

— I mean... — Harry had a cheeky smile on his lips — Who knows.. The year is just starting, 2020 it's a new year!

— And what's your thoughts on that, Y/N? — James asked looking at your blushed and smiley face.

— I agree with whatever he said! I was actually too distracted admiring his beauty to hear what he said. — You joked making Harry blush even more. You were head over heels about his man and this man only, totally in love with him.

— Alright so, on the next block we'll "Spill your guts or fill your guts'' where you'll see Harry Styles and Y/N Y/L/N answering the most crazy questions! We'll be right back! — James said to the camera that stopped filming immediately. You both stand up and walked with James to the other spot in the stage where the game was set up. It was a big rounded table with some of the most disgusting things you've ever saw and smelled. Apparently James wasn't going to play with both of you, but you could also see there was bull penis, cod sperm, chocolate cockroaches, hot sauce, 1.000 year old eggnod and banana smoothie in the table. But anyway, you just chatted with Harry and James until it was time to start shooting again.

— So, we're back, and we're about to start playing ''Spill your guts or fill your guts''. — Harry said as the camera started filming again — And apparently, I'm going to host this part, unless you want to? — Harry asked looking at you across the table.

— No, you can do it! — You answered as you sat straight in the chair looking at the things in the table — I'm nervous I've never done this before.

— Oh yeah, you've never done it! Well that's exciting! — Harry said before letting a small evil laugh leave his lips making you laugh as well and roll your eyes — Ladies first! — Harry said and you took a deep breath before taking a paper card in your hands. — So what am I eating? — Harry said as you both looked to the table.

— I guess...hum.. you can stay with the hot sauce! — You said cheeky smiling at him spinning the table to put the hot sauce in front of him.

— You know how much I hate hot sauce! — Harry said frustated while looking at the sauce.

— I know! — You said right before you whispered a low ''oh god'' before reading the paper — I love this! — You said laughing a little — Alright, Harry explain to the world the meaning of ''Watermelon Sugar'' — You said laughing as you watched Harry's face goes red when he listens to what you asked.

— Well... — He took a deep breath before laughing a little. He's face went completly red as he thought of explaining it — I guess it's about, hum.. Giving pleasure...to your significant other...hm.. by eating a watermelon! — He said pausing a little containing his laugh. Of course everyone knew the real meaning of Watermelon Sugar but neither of you had ever actually defined it with the exact words about the meaning.

— Alright! That was good!...Very convincing! — You looked at him with a slightly mocking expression as you saw Harry trying to decide on what he's gonna make you try.

— Let's go with the banana smoothie! — Harry said with a huge malicious smile on his lips.

— No fucking way! — You said immediately. Harry knew how much you hated banana, actually you'd rather die than eating a banana, so he just laughs — Harry...

— It's a game! You gave me the hot sauce, I'll give you the banana smoothie! — He said and you tried your best to do your pity face, even with the doggy eyes basically begging for him to chose everything else except the banana smoothie. — Alright, alright — Harry sighed making you smile as he now changed the banana smoothie to the bull penis. It was bad, but way better than banana. Harry got a paper card and laughed a little when he read what was written — You're one of the most notable supermodels on your generation and also are friends with some of the greatest models from your time. Rate Kendall, Gigi and Bella to best to the worst catwalks.

— Oh god! — You covered your face with your hands making Harry laughs out loud. You looked at the bull penis quietly and then at Harry again — I feel like I could answer, right?

— I feel like I could answer! — Harry completed putting an emphasis on the ''I could'' making you laugh and then slide your right hand through your hair.

— We've talked about this before, I know, but it was a healthy gossip between a couple... — You said staring at Harry's face thinking — I'd say... — You started but then stopped as the crowd cheered a bit.

— Just eat the penis! — Harry says quickly after letting out a long breath and making you laugh a little by the controversing of the words of your easily jealous boyfriend.

— If I might say, I'm very surprised you're asking me to eat another penis! — You answered quickly seeing Harry's eyes widen at you as he had a big smile on his face.

— I mean, it's just bull penis! — He said and you just agreed looking at the penis again — I mean, I could help you answer this.. Blink twice if the worst one is...

— I'M EATING THE PENIS! — You shouted getting one of them in your hand and just throwing it in your mouth chewing it slowing with a very ugly face because you knew Harry would actually say it, he can be the next gossip girl. — This is disgusting! This is probably the worst thing I've ever putted on my mouth.

— That's funny I thought you liked a penis in your mouth! — Harry said lowly making you literally choke and spit the bull penis in the small bucket you had in your hand and then drinking water as you tried to contain your laugh — But I mean, how much horrible things have you ever put on your mouth, right?

— That's not the point! Focus on the game! — You said as you looked through the rest of the things in the table — As I ate the penis, I'll give you the cod sperm so we can match later. — You said positioning the cod sperm in front of him — Actually, how did they got the sperm out of the cod? — You asked and Harry laugh looking at it as he said he had no idea. You picked another paper card and let out a loud laugh — I LOVE this game! Between Niall, Louis, Liam and Zayn, rank their solo careers to best to... — You laugh at the exact moment Harry covered his forehead with his head. He got the napkin beside him and wrapped it around his neck, then he got the fork with the cod sperm and stared at it quietly.

— Just put it in your mouth and swallow. Don't look at it! — You said innocently making the crowd laugh and Harry to look at you with a mocking expression while trying to contain his smile.

— Right, because ''don't look at it, just swallow'' fixes everything. What are you gonna tell me now? Should I spit or should I swallow? — Harry joked making you laugh realizing what you actually said.

— I mean, I'd swallow it! — You said joking back while holding back your laugh. Even though you were actually shy, you and Harry were used to always making sexual jokes so it was normal to you, and very funny too as you'd do it all the time. But Harry did as you said and threw it in his mouth, but he spit on the bucket beside him. It was your time again and he chose the chocolate Cockroaches and read the last question.

— Who is the most surprising celeb to ever slide into your DMs? — Harry asked making you smile thinking if you should tell it or not even though you knew exactly who it was and so did Harry. You'd always tell each other when someone flirted with you because this helped a lot to deal with all the being extremaly jealous story — WHO IS HE? — Harry joked making you let out a laugh.

— I mean.. I'd say you, for sure! I was really surprised! — You said making him smile because even though he knew you were very excited when he answered your DM, he was definetly not the most surprising celeb to slide into your DMS but he accepted the answer either way.

— Alright, this was fun! — Harry said finishing the game and then the camera came back to James and the new guest of the show.

You and Harry left the studio of The Late Late Show in NYC and grabbed dinner at a french restaurant in the city exactly like you both said you'd do in the end of the night. In the restaurant, you basically talked about the game and how fun it was to do this together and how much you loved going through new experiences together and how much you wanted to see what the future will bring to both of you, because even though the future was uncertain, you both had 100% of certain you wanted to spend it together.

[thatsgay-writes]

Day 16

PREVIOUS

"Here they are, the brave young women whose tale of struggle and survival has gripped the nation." The host says as she sends the camera a smile. "The unsinkable nine, as we have come to know them. Ladies, you must have dreamed of coming home for so long. Now that you're here, what do you wanna do most?" She questions as she turns towards you and your friends. "Honestly, smoke about a hundred cigs, you know? Like, really rip through a carton or two." Dot starts as she leans forwards on the couch. The host gives her a slightly awkward smile, "Okay. How about the rest of you?"

"I don't know; Maybe hit up the OG for a never-ending pasta bowl and just... I don't know... Get back to our real lives." Toni says next followed by Nora. "I'd like to read the Odyssey again, rather than, like, live it." She jokes awkwardly, causing some of the girls to laugh in response. "Leah, what about you?" "Oh, um, I just wanna reconnect with certain people... People who may have been worried and-or felt like we had unfinished business. And if that person is watching right now, I just wanna say that I did not not miss you every day." You cringe at Leah's little monologue, still not feeling 100% about her after her fight with Shelby.

"My turn, Brooke, and I've got a nice, straight answer for you. I'm going to fuck the rowdiest guy with the biggest dick as soon as I fucking can." Fatin says, causing everyone to pause the fantasy you all shared and look at Fatin. Fatin turned to look at you, since you were at the end of the couch, and you couldn't contain your laugh. "Holy shit!" You belt out as you roll onto your side, "I don't think you can say that." You tell her after you finally catch your breathe. Fatin rolls her eyes, "Okay, make it more media-friendly. I am going to fornicate with the healthiest penis I can find ASAP." You let out a laugh at her newly formed answer.

After that, Dot changed her answer and Fatin got on Leah for her "emo shit show" answer and how Romeo's would be in everyone's DM's, before they finally started cheering over the fact that there was a chance to return home. "We're going home, bitches!" Martha yells as she holds up the bottle of vodka, causing all the other girls to cheer. You go to celebrate with them but notice how Shelby stays silent and slowly pulls away from the group. You watch her go, debating if you should follow her, as Toni helps you stand. Her face holds a large smile that slowly falls as she notices how distracted you are and that Shelby was walking away.

Ever since kissing Shelby, Toni had been confused on her feelings between the both of you. She had loved you for years but Shelby just had something so attracting about her. Unknown to her, you were having the same thoughts. "I'll, um... I'll be right back." You say as you pat Toni's hands that were still holding your own after helping you up. Toni just nods her head as you hop away after Shelby.

---

"You don't seem very excited..." You try and joke as you hop around the rock Shelby was sitting on, closing your mouth as soon as you see how sad she looks. You fidget nervously for a few seconds as Shelby doesn't respond to your presence. You let out a deep breathe before sitting down next to Shelby on the rock. "Are you okay?" You ask as you slowly reach out your hand to grabs hers. You move slowly so she has enough time to pull away but she doesn't. When you tangle your fingers with Shelby's, she finally reacts some and turns her head to look at you. She opens and closes her mouth a few times wanting to say something, but ultimately ends up closing it and shaking her head. You let out a sigh but nod your head. You lean forwards and cup one of her cheeks, giving her a quick kiss on the other one. Your face gains a small smile as you notice Shelby blush, "I'll leave you to your thoughts... If you ever need someone to vent to or a shoulder to lean on I'll be here." You tell her as you slowly stand up and start hopping back towards to other girls, missing how Shelby stared after you longingly.

---

As you get closer to the other girls, you smile as you hear them all laughing and joking around. "Oh, Martha, you're gonna be trippin motherfucking balls dude." You hear Fatin say as you finally reach the group and collapse next to Toni. Hopping around was not fun and you were going to need to find a walking stick or something soon. "And she won't be alone." Rachel says as she holds her hand out towards Fatin. Taking what looks to be a bag of gummy bears? You nudge Toni with your shoulder and send her a questioning look. "Martha ate edibles." She whispered to you before turning back to the group and reaching for the bag. You covered your mouth in shock and laughed at the fact that Martha, sweet and innocent Martha, ate edibles. "You want one y/n?" Toni asks as she holds one out towards you. You think about it for a second. Your doctors back at home would probably advise you not to get high but you had been feeling fine the past few days. "Why not." You answer as you take the gummy bear from Toni and pop it into your mouth.

---

"Marcus!?" You hear Martha yell out for the 5th time as almost everyone laid on the beach, high out of their minds. The only ones not laying down were Fatin, who looked like she was meditating, Shelby, who still hadn't returned from the rock, and you, who had taken a seat on Toni's back and kept tracing out random letters and shapes on her back. "I'm so fucking blissed out. Not even from the gummies, just from the thought that in 48 hours I can have an orgasm." Was the first thing Fatin had said in an hour, causing you to giggle and almost fall off of Toni's back. Unlike Toni, who always got more relaxed when she was high, you got more giggly, enthusiastic, and talkative. You being high rivaled Shelby's whole "Who wants to play an ice breaker?" persona.

"Wait? You haven't like self-induced?" Leah asks, seriously but still with a playful tone. "No, I can't do it with my hands actually. I have this weird cello-vibrato PTSD. It's a whole thing." Fatin responds, breezing over the subject. "So your electric toothbrush hasn't seen any action?" Dot asks causing you to laugh more and add on, "I mean we all kind of assumed." You send a wink Fatin's way before turning your attention back to Toni's back, effectively spacing out on the conversation.

When you do focus back onto everyone, it's from Toni tapping your thigh to get you to get up. "Huh?" "C'mon we're gonna go play in the water." Instead of standing up and hopping your way towards the ocean, you just roll of Toni's back and lay on your back in the sand. "I'm good... I think I'm just gonna lie here." Toni gives you a questioning look but you just push her thigh towards the water. "I'll be fineeeee, go have funnnnn." Toni rolls her eyes as you purposefully draw out words and follows the rest of the girls into the water.

You could hear the girls from where you laid, all of them letting out screams and laughs of joy. You would have joined but hopping around on one leg isn't fun and tired you out pretty quickly. You rolled onto your side once the sun felt too hot on your face and you noticed that Shelby hadn't joined in on the fun either. You contemplated going up to her and trying to talk to her or give her more space, but went with the first choice. If she had rejoined the group than maybe she would want some company now.

---

"Not a fan of the water?" You ask as you let yourself collapse next to Shelby, taking note how she now had the bottle of vodka and it had a less in it than it did before. "I... Um..." Shelby stuttered out as she purposefully did not make eye contact with you. "It's fine." You say with a shrug and lay on your side. "No need to talk, just relax." You say as you suddenly get hype fixated on making shapes and letters on her back. Missing the way she tensed up before finally relaxing. You spaced out again from what was going on, a common thing that happened when you were high.

---

The rest of the day blew by as everyone did their own thing. Nora and Rachel went off talked somewhere, you noticed that Toni and Shelby got into a argument, and you just chilled around with Fatin, Dot, and Leah, while Martha decided to adventure into the woods. "Guys! Guys! Guess what I just saw!?" Martha yells as she runs over the hill and back towards the group. "I just saw Marcus and he's alive!" She yells out, out of breath, causing everyone to laugh at how ridiculous she sounded. "No, guys, I'm being serious!" Martha defends and grabs the nearest person to her, Dot, and starts dragging her along. "C'mon, he's in the woods." Dot turns to give the group and exasperated look but you all decide to follow along.

You had your arm wrapped around Toni as you all journeyed through the woods. You had tried to get out of going, but Martha wanted everyone to go with her. "You're just saying that he, like, fucking pinocchio'd?" Dot asks, having not stopped laughing or joking about the situation since you all headed into the woods. "Yes. That is exactly what I am saying." Martha says in relief, missing that fact that Dot was still making fun of her. "He turned into a real boy." She finishes as you and Toni see Marcus... Who is still as fake as he was the day he was found. "I don't know, he kinda looks the same to me." Toni says as you release her arm so she can pick up Marcus. "Hey! My leg!" You say excitedly as you notice it laying under Marcus. When Fatin goes to kiss Marcus, you kiss your leg. It was all fun and games until Leah had to mention the fact that Marcus and your leg had been swept away but suddenly ended up in the middle of the forest. You had thought the same thing but hoped to just ignore that fact. "Leah. We're mellow. We're leaving."

---

"Oh Shelby, you love America so much. USA! USA!" Martha cheers, trying to get Shelby to join her but the other girl is completely zoned out. "Is she okay?" You and Toni ask at the same time. Both of you sharing an awkward look with each other, neither of you had told the other about your own kiss with Shelby. Luckily, Fatin isn't stuck in an unknown love triangle and walks over to Shelby. You all watch as Shelby starts to brush her hair, it seems to stay tangled no matter what she does. Until the brush gets stuck in her hair. Fatin attempts to help her but Shelby goes into full freak out mode. "It's all ruined." She says as she grabs the scissors out of Fatin's bag. Fatin attempts to stop her but Shelby was inconsolable.

"I don't' fucking want it! I don't want it!"

NEXT

[beomglocks]

argus limited ; k.th

summary : the sweet man on the train is not all that he seems or you meet taehyun on a train and he flirts with you until you realize what he’s really up to

pairing : gangleader!taehyun x reader

warnings & other : this was a dream i had, i literally just typed this all up so sorry if there’s mistakes, mention of blood

w/c : 1.7K

the train is quiet save for the clinking of glasses, hushed conversations, and the metal gears of the train churning every so often.

you look outside at the snowy mountains and landscape. it makes you feel out of place since you're sitting inside a cozy wooden booth with your most elegant attire on.

it was somewhat mandatory for guests of the argus limited to be dressed accordingly since this train was very exclusive and reserved for wealthy people only. you're lucky yeonjun managed to get you a train ticket to go visit him in argus.

you hadn't even known he was staying there until he had brought you a ticket and sent it to your phone. the only message along with it being a simple, "hey baby im back! come visit me ;)" cheeky bastard.

you fiddle with your fingers, having nothing better to do on this incredibly long train ride. argus was miles away from your hometown so the journey took several hours and the train ride had just started around 2 hours ago. since you had to go through several different terrains it wasn't like your cellphone had much use seeing as there was no reception.

"excuse me miss?" you hear someone say. you tear your eyes away from the snowy desert to see a very handsome man. he had a piercing gaze and stark blonde hair. he was wearing a suit that screamed wealth and had an intimidating aura.

"do you mind if i join you?" he says as he takes a seat anyway. you sigh, looking back towards the frosty window. the guy doesn't speak for a while but you can tell he's watching you. you don't pay him any mind, not too interested with partaking in conversation.

he clears his throat, "what's a pretty woman like you doing all alone on a train like this?" you let out a silent laugh at his attempt at flirting. you don't answer his question, simply humming with a smile on your face.

"where might this pretty lady be headed towards?" he tries again.

you decide to humor him for the time being. it's not like you've got much else to do on this train. "im headed to argus," you answer. he grins at hearing your voice.

"argus? meeting someone?"

"yes, i am," you smile.

"a boyfriend?" he asks, more and more intrigued by you by the second. you raise your eyebrow at him. "i'll let you speculate that," you decide to tease.

he chuckles, satisfied with your answer. "where are you headed?" you ask him, feeling like it's only fair to know about him as well. he subtly darts his eyes around the train before answering, "just beyond argus actually."

"from your attire, im guessing business reasons?" you say. he smiles, showing off his pearly teeth, "i'll let you speculate that."

he waves his hand to let the waiter know to come to your booth. "bring your finest wine," the man demands. the waiter nods and goes off.

"you drink?" you ask. you look him over once again. he does seem like the powerful businessman type so you wouldn't be surprised if he did. "only when im around pretty women," he says smoothly. you roll your eyes at his flirtatious remark, "you must be a drunkard then."

"i'm quite the nephalist actually," he crosses his arms on the table, looking at you. "so why the wine if you don't like to drink?" you deadpan.

"well im rarely ever around pretty women like you," he shrugs. the wine comes to your table and you can tell it's very expensive just from looking at it. you let the waiter pour both your glasses before speaking up again.

"what, you don't hire women at your company?" you don't know why you ask him this but you do. you're interested by this mysterious man and if he's going to be accompanying you for the rest of the train ride then you might as well learn more about him while you can.

"my company?" he laughs lightly taking a sip of the wine. "i do...though they're not the classiest." he hums looking at his cup. you sigh, not really caring to look into the specifications of what he's talking about. "what's your name anyways?" you ask.

he smiles again, "taehyun." you nod off looking back outside. "mine is y/n."

taehyun chuckles, "can i assume that's your real name?" you look back at him with an eyebrow raised. "why would i use a fake name?"

he nods with a smile on his face and his hands up in a defensive manner. "in my company that's what we do. i trust you with my real name though."

you frown, looking away. you're starting to get weird vibes from taehyun. he hasn't done anything weird per se however you get the feeling that he's a sketchy man.

you start to hear footsteps approach your table and when you look up you see a tall man with dark hair standing next to taehyun. he looks at you then at taehyun and leans down to whisper in his ear. taehyun stares at you the whole time while he listens to whatever is being said to him.

"ah i see," he says out loud. the man stands straight again and bows to you awkwardly and walks away. "looks like this," he gestures between you both. "has to be cut short."

"is something wrong?" you take a sip of the wine and swirl it around the cup, never taking your eyes off him. he fixes his suit and takes another sip of wine. "a minor issue with our luggage." is all he says. he winks at you when he stands up and proceeds to walk away in the same direction as the man.

you take a deep breath when he leaves. you feel like you've been holding it in all this time. taehyun feels like a really intimidating man and you don't know why you feel that way. maybe it's the way he speaks or the way he carries himself. you can't put your finger on it but there's something up with him.

you lean your head on your palm, looking outside again. you really miss yeonjun and you can't wait to see him, the mere thought of being with him again makes you giddy. it's unfortunate you can't call or text him right now but once you get to argus you already know the first thing you're doing with him.

some time passes and once you realize it it's dark outside. the train employees have dimmed the lights of the carts and lit some candles for a more homey feel and you can't lie, you like it. it makes the train feel more elegant than it already is.

you stand up to go back to your room which you're glad yeonjun brought you. there are parts of this train that are merely for everyday train riders and parts that are for people traveling much longer distances. the ones who travel from town to town are able to book rooms and that's exactly what yeonjun did for you.

you rub your eyes a little since the wine made you a bit drowsy but not tired to the point where you would be able to k.o. at the sight of your bed. you bump into someone along the way and quickly apologize for not looking. "y/n," you hear taehyun's voice. you look up and sure enough there he is.

you suddenly feel cramped in this small corridor. the corridor is only meant for one person at a time to get to their rooms however you and taehyun are standing face to face and your back is against someone else's door.

"oh taehyun, i was just about to go back to my room." you don't point in which direction because frankly, you don't want him to know where you'll be staying for the rest of the night. he places his hands at your waist and you're about to tell him to get his hands off you when he speaks up, "already? the night's still young," he laughs heartily.

you laugh dryly already feeling uncomfortable with his presence. "yeah well.." you trail off when you see something on his suit jacket. "what's that?"

you point at a red mark on his suit and he follows your gaze with a frown. he wipes it with his finger and inspects it as if he's clueless as to what the red substance could be too. "that's odd..im not sure," he says. he wipes it away and looks at you with a weird gaze, quietly telling you to drop it.

if you were feeling uncomfortable before, well you're certainly feeling unsettled now. you clear your throat and wiggle away from his light grasp on your waist. "well taehyun, it was nice seeing you again. im going to sleep so i guess i'll be seeing you for the last time when the train stops at argus?" you smile trying to draw away any tension.

he nods off, "right, i'll be seeing you off for argus in a couple of hours." he places his hand on his neck and cracks it, you flinch involuntarily and hope he doesn't notice.

it's silent for a moment, just like earlier. the only sounds being glasses clinking, hushed conversations, and the trains gears churning.

"sleep tight y/n," he finishes the conversation with an easy smile. you smile back and walk off towards your room. once you step in, you breathe heavily as if you'd just been drowned and came back for air. what's with that guy? now you really can't wait to get off this train.

you sit on your bed and think back to the interaction you just had. that red mark was definitely blood. it was too dark to be the wine you both were just drinking otherwise you would've pointed it out earlier. was he bleeding or was it from something or someone else?

you really don't want to dwell on it for much longer or else you'll force yourself to dig deeper into just who this taehyun is. for now, you simply let yourself take a nap for the rest of the journey to argus. you don't even let yourself dream of the strange man. you dream of seeing your boyfriend after months of waiting and finally getting to be with him.

and you don't even realize the hushed voices coming from just outside your door.

[nellie-elizabeth]

Grey's Anatomy: No Time To Die (18x09)

Wow oh my god I'm so annoyed.

Cons:

The thing is, I'm just so not here for most of the romances we've got going for us. The biggest No for me is Link and Jo. I want them to be our Alex and Meredith, have a strong male/female friendship without an attraction or romance there. Honestly cannot stand the sight of the two of them kissing, and they got a whole drawn out love scene with the dramatic music over the top. Gag me. Ugh. It's just narratively unsatisfying to me, and it this point it really feels like throwing spaghetti at the wall, seeing what romances stick.

I also could not care less about Meredith's beau. At this point I'm stubbornly refusing to learn his name. It's a clever protest against the existence of a character so bland that my eyes slide off his face whenever he starts to talk. See, the thing is, I want Meredith to have a stable, nice relationship with a good man, and that is technically what we're seeing here. You know who else is stable and nice and a good man? Cormac Hayes. Instead of seeing that relationship develop, we get to hear how it was a nonstarter in between seasons, and now Hayes is leaving? One of the last good men this show has to offer? I'm very annoyed.

Also Owen... I feel like the drug theft and mercy killing drama is somewhat manufactured. Washington State has a death with dignity act, so Owen didn't have to break the rules to actually help out the guy he gave the drugs to. He could have gone through the process, and then stolen drugs for the other men who didn't qualify, I guess. Instead it's like he committed an extra crime for no good goddamn reason, just to cause angst for everyone involved. Owen is an angst producing machine and not in a way that I enjoy watching. I will also lodge my familiar complaint that Owen and Teddy are both insufferable characters so I want to be with them on this journey where Teddy is so scared for Owen and they have their lovely little reunion but I'm just... meh about the whole thing.

Pros:

Honestly, the whole Webber Method plot thread this season has been the one that's the most interesting to me. I love that we're seeing the absolutely horrific crash and burn for Schmitt after a whole season where he was on top of the world. It's the good kind of angst, and a story I'm excited to explore. I want Levi to be okay. I want to go on this journey with him while he heals. I like that Jo and Helm and Nico all helped him out during his crash and burn, but it wasn't a situation where anyone was able to just say the right thing and bring him out of it. The image of him scrubbing his hands raw and bleeding is a haunting one, and exactly the kind of overwrought metaphor that only a show like Grey's could pull off well. That final image of Levi sitting by himself on the curb outside, and Nico dropping to the ground next to him, tells me that we're at the start of a long journey for him until he's better. Levi tried to be there for Nico when he went through something similar and killed someone on the table, but that nearly broke them. Now we'll have to see if Nico is able to be there for Levi!

And then you've got Webber, furious and heartbroken about Levi specifically and the whole Webber Method in general. He talks to Meredith about it, and she says she would have done the same thing, gone ahead without attending support, if this was the way surgeries were taught back when she first started. It's a fair point, and one that Richard really doesn't want to hear right now. Bailey suspends the Webber Method immediately and indefinitely, and I can't blame her for that either. It's a good juicy drama with just the right about of stakes to it, and I can't wait to see where it goes from here.

So, to talk about Owen again, as I said, I don't care about him. Honestly I think the show would be better if he were gone, and we could keep Hayes instead. But he is one of the longest-lasting characters on Grey's at this point, and he has a lasting history with so many of the characters. So of course there is something meaningful and powerful about everyone gathering together to make sure his surgery goes well. The stakes are high: he's going to live, but if they're not perfect with the surgery, he might never walk again. Again, this felt like a good balance to me, where we're not left in suspense about Owen's life, but there's still something awful that could happen if they're not really careful.

I thought Owen and Hayes' conversation was good, even if the whole drama seems manufactured to me. There was an interesting tension between these two men. They don't know each other particularly well, but Owen basically sacrificed his life to save Hayes, and both actors do a good job of portraying the intensity of that.

Farouk gets a working heart! They add in some drama here with the heart being bruised, but Winston decides to go for it and he ends up being right in taking that risk. I'm happy for Megan and Farouk, although I still feel like their presence here isn't seamlessly integrated. I keep forgetting that Megan is Owen's sister, and I'm still annoyed that in writing Megan back into the story, we've left poor Riggs out in the cold. Looks like Hayes isn't destined as a new love interest for her either, as he's leaving, which is such a huge bummer.

I like Maggie and Winston a lot. They have a little debate here about believing in miracles, and I hope this isn't going to mean discord for them any time soon... I like that Maggie doesn't believe in that kind of thing the way Winston does, but she's still supportive of him and they save a life together. They make a good team!

And finally... the only newer romance that I feel invested in, Amelia and Kai! God, Link was such an ass in this episode, I like the way Amelia told him off, and I hate that he got to be all self-righteous at her. She ended things with him, she didn't cheat on him, and he's asking like she's committed some terrible betrayal. Really annoying. Love that Amelia corrected Link on Kai's gender identity, loved the dinner scene at the end where Amelia explains the messiness of her life, and Kai just offers one of their fries. I really hope these two can make a real go of it. Link is sort of dead to me right now for the way he spoke to Amelia, and also for hooking up with Jo. Yuck.

Okay, that's all I've got. I guess it's fine that Owen didn't die from falling off a cliff or whatever. I'm bummed about Hayes. I'm grossed out by Link and Jo. I'm grieving for Levi. Can't wait to see what's next!

7.5/10

[araminakilla]

Huey and D'jinn possible parallels

As we know, Huey is the center of this season and even if he wasn't present in all the episodes, the ones in which he appears are excelent and contribute for some character development. I bet we are going to see paralels between him and other characters. Dewey has Della, Jormungandr in the neutral side and Don Karnage in the villain side, Louie has Goldie and Gladstone. Huey has Fenton, maybe Gyro, Donald and definetly Fethry Duck, Boyd and Violet Sabrewing. But what if he had parallels with someone who isn't science-related? Someone who has more common grounds in terms of liking history other than Violet (who is now a recurring character)? I have a feeling that it's a side character who is going to return not that soon but in the last episodes.

I'm talking about Faris D'jinn and in this (long) post I'm going to explain why.

First of all, their (brief) interactions. Huey was the first member of the Duck family to meet D'jinn and he was the one who asked if him and Amunet were ok in Moonvasion!

Now this may be very brief but I theorise Huey is going to have more conversations with Faris the next time he appears. They have many things in common after all.

What are those things you may ask? Apart of wearing red in their clothes.

Well, that is the second point. Both like order and things going their way because it makes them easy and in Huey's case, secure.

D'jinn had one thing in mind in all the Treasure of the Found Lamp! episode: To find the lamp of his ancestors in his birthday or devastating consequences would happen aka he's going to be sad. This could count as hyperfocusing on something, that would be the lamp and the story behind it.

He was so concentrated on that matter that he involved the duck family in a quest that some of them (Scrooge and Louie) didn't want to be part of, but felt they have no choice.

This reminds me of the episode where it was Scrooge's birthday and Huey wanted to prove that he could be a better party planner than Duckworth (the already deceased buttler) to the point of only for one second to transform into "the Duke", you know, that facet of Huey that cames to life when a great injustice was made like when Mark Beaks made Dewey the superior of Huey despite the fact that the Blue One didn't put as much effort as the Red One or when a boss character ruins his carefully cultivated farm plot in Legends of Legendquest and the older sibling went mad.

Well, D'jinn had moments that from his point of view count as injustices too. First the lamp was stolen centuries ago, then he finds where it is and goes to Scrooge to have it back, then the old duck tells him the lamp was misplaced. Since Faris had a schedule that he must complete before it's too late, he proposes to find the lamp in a rather...intense way that ends up scaring the ducks. Then he goes to Itaquack and spends maybe hours solving riddles and he knows they are stalling him and gets more impatient. THEN he discovers the lamp was stolen AGAIN under his nose by Ma Beagle and that he was SO close to obtain it right there. These last things of course couldn't happen as the quest was fake but Faris didn't know that.

While I don't think D'jinn has a whole "Duke" persona, he has little moments of intensity that instead of helping him only makes things worse.

It's because these moments of intensity and misunderstandings that the ducks had to make a false quest to obtain more time and stop D'jinn for...wanting to kill them.

No, seriously, the family thought they were death duck meat if they didn't find the lamp which again it's a big misunderstanding, as we found out Faris isn't the kind of guy who is violent just because and he wouldn't kill enemies.

Look, D'jinn is my favorite side character in all Ducktales and I even made a big analysis of why he is a great character a year ago. But... guy has poor communication skills. Let's admit it, many of you wouldn't stay in the same room as someone who not only is very (very) dramatic but also has weapons at their disposition.

Anyway going back to Huey...the Red Bean also has problems with communication. For example, as @pholux-twg pointed out, many things could have been resolved if only Huey had the time to explain his insecurities and point of view in The Trickening!, something he didn't do well in Scrooge's birthday.

And talking about that episode again, he was pushing his siblings to do the perfect birthday for Scrooge, something that Scrooge himself didn't want to. Huey had good intentions when trying to organize the party but his actions and considerations of other people's feelings were not productive, just like D'jinn had good intentions at getting the lamp back but the way he tried to obtain it just scared everybody.

Also to me it is very amusing that D'jinn is a warrior who trusts everybody so much (I mean, he didn't stop to consider if Ma Beagle was lying about the lamp, he believed her inmediatly) and falls for simple jokes as the "got your nose" joke. It is possible that he's not that naive but simply he doesn't really know when somebody is lying or not even if it's very obvious. Just like Huey is Mister "I'm not good at imagination stuff" D'jinn could be "I'm not good at detecting lies and metaphorical jokes"

Then we have the scroll that D'jinn owns and it has the story of his family, his quest for the perfect birthday gift and maybe more information, he writes on it what he has accomplished and that reminds me of the Junior Woodchuck Guidebook that Huey has for guidance. We don't know what could happen if Faris lost the scroll because it seems that he also uses it for guidance in his quests (or in the quest of his life)

Gif belong to @pholux-twg , @stevenfallsvs and @greatgamedota

Also I would like to point out that Huey had moments of stimming in Season 3 and I think D'jinn had moments of this in his debut episode...if spinning his sword many times counts as stimming, because maybe is a cool thing that he does when trying to impresionte those around him but maybe...just maybe he spins his sword when experiencing strong emotions like:

Anger

Determination

Hapiness

But wait you would say, that doesn't make sense as he has the same stoic face in the three gifs.

Yeah, but the thing is, and this is one of the theories that I have...he's masking.

During all the journey he's excited but mostly reserved and it's only when he understood that everyone thought there was a genie in the lamp and said object was now at his disposition that he broke his stoic and serious presence and began to show more than just one emotion.

But from a brief moment before the battle with the Beagle Boys we see the moment he discovers all his quest was a charade to stop him from getting angry, we get this:

He's confused, sad, hurt and angry again when facing the ducks. Then as he questions if everything was fake he seems sad again.

This is of course justified in that he's a tough warrior. Heavens forbid if he shows emotions that could be perceived as weak in front of his allies and enemies.

But we have to consider this: D'jinn lives for epic and little quests. It's his hobbie, his favorite activity, he sees life as a big quest and him as just another player and he takes that very seriously.

The thing is... the others don't. They only pay attention to him for fear of their lives. This is just a guy who you can't ignore. Like I said before Scrooge and Louie only want to escape the problem they got into and even Huey is amazed at how much dedication the warrior puts on the lamp and the quest.

Huey (to Louie): D'jinn monologued about this lamp and the Ifrit's Dawn for ten minutes without blinking!

Taking into account that, let's go back to Faris realizing the ducks lied to him. They used his favorite hobby and interest as a joke. Without saying it, the ducks practicaly said: "You know, we don't care about being part of your quest or your lamp or listening to your dramatic stories. We just don't want to get destroyed. We want you to leave us alone as soon as possible"

And all I have to say is...ouch. OUCH

I mean, of course that supposition is not true because Dewey enjoyed the adventure and Webby was living the dream! But D'jinn didn't know that.

I also have to wonder if him not getting into drama over the lie was because he was very focused in obtaining the lamp or maybe he's just used to it. And for "it" I mean having to deal with many lies made to get rid of him and his dramatic actitude, and that actitude is not wrong or bad but some persons just don't have time or patience for that and we don't know how many people encountered the warrior in the past.

We don't know if his family is as interested and passionate about their history as D'jinn, or if he still has a brother or more siblings but (theory) if he turns out to be the only member of his family to have that passion for history and adventures then he would have another thing in common with Huey. Both love their families deeply but they feel they don't understand them.

At least we have one thing clear for sure and it is that in his last birthday, D'jinn wasn't alone.

I hope he continues to make more friends or how he puts it "allies" and please let him interact with Huey! It's the Red One's season after all.

Also as a sidenote it is interesting that in the last picture Webby, Beakly and Huey (who are confirmed to have more presence and lore in this season) were in one group together. Foreshadowing?

[turbulentt]

her heart tastes bitter. chapter one.

warnings: mentions of parental figure's death. 

author’s note: if you wish to be tagged on the following chapters to keep up with the fanfic please let me know. i haven’t decided how regularly i will post. hope you guys enjoy :)

_

"oh, looks who's here." yunho happily runs to congratulate you "i heard it was a tough job. are you okay?"

"yeah, i'm fine." you answer and quickly move to your desk "i have to write the report to hand to the boss."

"oh, good luck with that. also, wooyoung was talking shit about you earlier, nothing new, when are you going to deal with that?" yunho sits on your desk and you shrug your shoulders unbothered. you're more than used having jung wooyoung as your personal hater, him and a couple of his mates who, unfortunately, you are obliged to call coworkers. "i can't do anything if he's an idiot. it's been what? two or three years? he's just throwing a tantrum at this point."

"i know, but he has tried to sabotage you more than once. why don't you tell the boss?" yunho is always this worried about you, apart from your boss he is one of the few people who respect you at work. "i don't want to bother mister kim with these childish matters. besides, wooyoung is his right arm. who do you think he will trust?"

"you're partially right. but bear in mind that he chose to trust you when no one else did. not even me. he has your back, you know that."

"i know." you smile "don't you have a job soon?"

"i do. i need to get going. wish me luck!" yunho pops up happily and walks away as he waves back at you. "don't get eaten!" you say jokingly and he gives you the middle finger.

as you keep writing the report your mind keeps drifting away to yunho's words. it's true what he said, you couldn't deny that it was mister kim who supported you when no one else believed in your dream. kim hoongjoong was and is your savior, and for that, you own him your life. and it's funny, now it feels like you both have a father-daughter like relationship, and that's one of the reasons most for your coworkers to not be very fond of you, but you have proven your worth more than once.

your phone rings unexpectedly startling you.

"what do you want, yeosang? i'm at work." you pout and lean back on your chair.

"ok sorry, rude. i just needed to tell you that you're supposed to have dinner at my place tonight," he explains, leaving you confused.

"why am i having dinner at your place?"

"my mom is in town, she wants to see you. please, i already told her you'd come." yeosang pleas cutely.

"okay, fine. but i'm doing this for your mom." you scoff.

"good! at my apartment, at eight o'clock, don't be late."

"i won't."

"oh also, try not to talk about your demon-slaying job to her." he mocks you.

"bye, yeosang." you chuckle and hang up the call.

yeosang is your best friend for as long as you can remember. he's been with you through a lot, and he was the one who held your hand when you received the news that your father had passed away. he's like your pillar, there's nothing he won't do for you, and vice-versa.

yet, with that comes that you can not possibly keep secrets from each other. not even if you try. the guilt will only consume you enough to make you confess.

the first time you told yeosang about your job he didn't believe you. obviously, like any other regular human would. yeosang does not believe in demons, or he didn't at least. as a demon slayer, you aren't supposed to reveal your identity to outsiders, only not to go through the danger of that outsider being a demon.

but at that time ou didn’t think it through, you just had to make yeosang believe.

...two years ago...

"so you mean that you've been working as a demon slayer for approximately one year now?" yeosang repeats almost perfectly what you had just explained to him. "exactly. but you don't believe just yet, am I right?" you look at him unamused. "how exactly do you expect me to believe shit like this, y/n? this sounds like a movie."

"i know it does, but would i lie to you?"

"well, no. bu-" you cut him off and drag him across the cafe and outside. "wait a damn minute. you're really a pain in the ass."

you get your phone to call someone and yeosang just stares at you expectantly.

"yes? yunho I need a favor."

after a few minutes of conversation, you convince yunho to give you the location of a low-class demon.

your plans weren't the best, you admit that. but you always had this irresponsible side, reckless and empty-headed self. you just wanted to show him you were telling the truth.

and so you did. you drove to the location along with yeosang and you could very clearly feel his uneasiness. by now he knew he should've taken you more seriously.

arriving there you just told him to stay inside the car and watch quietly as you slew the demon mercilessly with your sword. he watched as you penetrated its heart and trapped his soul back to the underworld.

as you get back on the car, clothes stained from demon blood and sweat dripping from your forehead, you look at him once again.

"do you believe me now?"

"you said your boss’s name is kim hoongjoong? tell me more."

instead of being scared, yeosang was actually very much excited, as he now believes in demons and demon slayers.

"kim hoongjoong, or mister kim as everyone refers to him, is the best of the best. he is the leader of the demon slayers and the most powerful too. he has been given the power to see demons and any kind of spirit at his birth and with that gift, he is the one who assigns each demon to a certain slayer. there are many layers of demon slayers, arranged by power, to keep the balance in the underworld." you start to explain as you drive away through the city. "just like the old hierarchy? with kings, queens, clergy, and such?"

"exactly. mister kim is who we call the higher entity which makes him the most powerful yet vulnerable slayer for the magnitude of power he holds. all demons see him as a threat, not enough to attack him, but we have to make sure he is protected nevertheless. for that are the knights, those who stay by the boss' side and protect him from possible attacks. they also assist other slayers on their jobs if there is requested any help." you keep on explaining and yeosang seems utterly absorbed by your words.

"are you a knight?" he asks curiously. "no, not yet at least. i’m who they call the warriors. we deal with middle or low-class demons and cleanse locations and souls."

"oh! that seems interesting. so, you basically prevent places from being haunted?" yeosang sounded like a curious child discovering a new hobby, is very amusing to you. "you could say that. but instead of haunted, we refer it as being possessed. either people, animals, plants, places, or inanimate objects." you point out.

yeosang suddenly goes quiet, you glance at him only to see him tremble in his seat.

"so does that mean that spiders can be possessed?" his hands shake and you laugh at him. "yeah, but they can't hurt you. demons usually only use animals as a form of transport until they find a fitted human to be their host. a few demons though, connected to animals, can indeed possess animals in order to create the chaos but they are rare so don't sweat it."

"yeah... yeah i won't." he chuckles nervously.

...present...

"the boss is calling for you."

sighing you stand from your desk and make your way up to your boss' office. as you walk through the place heavy unpleasant stares are held on you, as if you were some kind of demon to them. knocking at the metal door you hear a sweet voice giving you permission to enter.

"did you call for me, sir?" you close the door behind you, standing still where you are waiting for a response. "you can quit the act. it doesn't fit you." he laughs lowly and turns his chair to you with a smile "there's no one here, make yourself comfortable."

"good." you chant jokingly and sit on the chair in front of his desk "but why did you call?"

"i felt like talking." he smiles looking at you and you give him a stare of confusion "tea?"

"yes, please." you watch as he pours the tea for both of you and takes a sip "you can also quit the act, boss. you didn't just feel like talking out of nowhere."

he laughs again, this time a bit louder and sighs.

"perceptive as always. you're right." he stares at his tea blankly seeming to look for the right words "i was talking to your father just now."

"oh. how's he?" you take another sip, not minding the tension building around the room. "he's doing good. hasn't found his path yet. i'm sorry if this bothers you."

"you know it doesn't. my dad died a while ago, long enough for me to get over it." you smile weakly "i'm worried that he hasn't found the path to the beyond yet thought. does he know what's keeping him here?"

"no. i have no clue either. do you have any ideas of what it might be?"

"i don't know. my dad had a lot of unfinished businesses. maybe it is a relationship. there are numberless possibilities." you cross your arms and shrug, there is not much you can do, humans should not interfere on spirits journeys to the beyond. "i hope he finds his peace soon. meanwhile, i have something for you."

"a new job?" your eyes shine in expectation and your boss looks at you fondly. "yes. this one will determine whether or not you will ascend on the chain." he hands you a white envelope, holding all the information on the demon and its host.

excitedly your fiddle your fingers through the envelope to open it, it's such an important job, finally, one of the many to come where you will have to give your all to prove to mister kim that you are the suited one to follow his footsteps and inherit his powers.

as you pull the stack of papers out you feel a cold shiver run down your spine. something's not right. skipping the first page you get to what matters, the face and name of the demon you will be slaying next is all that you care about.

and then you see his face.

stamped on that paper are his name and his face.

your next target is him.

you look up at mister kim wordlessly. he stares back at you smiling, fully aware of all that is running through your head at that moment.

"c-choi san…?"

[sylphid187]

Coming Home, Taking Flight ‐ Chapter 2: Road to Osaka

This Chapter 2 of my fic focusing on Hinata's journey home. A look into Hinata's return to Japan, his interactions with his friends, and how he makes it into the MSBY Black Jackals.

Hinata Shoyou wakes up religiously the next morning. He gets up, goes for a morning jog, gets some yoga in his routine, then makes time for morning meditation. He makes sure to do all this, before heading to the kitchen to make some breakfast for his family. 

He spent most of yesterday and last night catching up with his family and friends, who had to leave late in the night, after they realized that the sun was down and Tsukishima still had to drive Yachi and Yamaguchi home. During dinner, Shouyou had spent blissful time with his family, his mother seemingly very happy about having the returning presence of her eldest, back in their household. He is reminded again how being back in the company of his family in their own home, was so comforting. 

He walks around their kitchen and, as he waits for the rice to finish cooking, he goes into the fridge to find some salmon slices and some tofu. Shouyou smiles and figures that he probably has enough ingredients to make a healthy japanese breakfast with the salmon, and he's sure his mom has enough ingredients to make some miso soup to go with the meal. He smiles as he is reminded of how he fiddled around in hisbshared space with Pedro, and how Shouyou would usually make breakfast for his roommate, before going to wake him so they could enjoy a meal together. 

As much as Shouyou wanted to treat his family to some brazillian recipes he'd learned from Nice, he didn't have enough ingredients for it right now. So he promises himself he'd do that another day. He'd be more than happy to share the other culture that he's grown to love, with the one that he grew up with. 

Later, when Shouyou is just about finished with setting up the table and their morning meal, he hears padded footsteps make their way through their dining area, and is sure that it's Natsu that's making her way to the kitchen. He hears a gasp and looks up to find that he's guessed right, and Natsu is there staring at their table. 

"Wow Nii-chan, this looks great!" she claps her hands together in glee and continues to scan over what Shouyou has made. 

"Thanks Natsu! Hope you like it! I packed one for mom so she can take it with her to work." Shouyou smiled. His mother still worked on the weekends, and she was used to laboring hard as a single mother. She had worked hard her whole life to sustain Shouyou and Natsu. Shouyou hopes that his dreams of going pro wouldn't just be a benefit to him, but would help lighten the load on his family too. 

"It really does look good! I can't wait to dig in!" Natsu clasps her hands together again, before heading to the sink to wash them, and sitting down at her usual spot on the table. 

Shouyou then sits across from her, and they both give thanks before beginning to dig in. Natsu immediately gives out a happy squeal after a few bites, and Shouyou can't help but chuckle at his sister's antics. He's extremely pleased though that she seems to genuinely like his food. "Nii-chan! This is so good! It looked great, but it tastes even better." 

Shouyou grins. "Flattery will get you nowhere Natsu, but thank you. I'm really happy you like it." 

"It's a real shame you won't be staying longer Nii-chan. I wouldn't mind eating more of your cooking. You're leaving this afternoon right?" she asks him with a smile. 

"That's right. I'll leave by noon, sorry I won't be able to spend more time with you and mom. And I just got home too." Shouyou states, a little gloomy at the thought. 

It saddens him a bit that he can't spend more time with his family, just after he's gotten back. But Shouyou cut it really close when he chose to fly back yesterday. He couldn't book earlier flights because he also wanted to maximize spending time with Pedro, Heitor, Nice and Coach. That, and he did promise to wait after Heitor and Nice's wedding.  But, he needed to be home in time to make it to tryouts. Granted, his chosen flight really didn't give him much time for any detours. Tryouts were on Monday, and today was Saturday. The plan was to head out Saturday afternoon to Osaka via train. 

The train ride from Miyagi to Higashiosaka in Osaka was about nine hours. He had planned to leave around noon to get to Osaka by 10pm. He still had to find a place to stay, but he figured he would work it out when he got there. He could, of course, leave on a Sunday. But Shouyou wanted to have enough time to familiarize himself with the area before tryouts, and have at least a little bit of time to get in shape while waiting for the day to arrive. He didn't want to show up to Osaka not knowing where he was headed and end up missing tryouts because he got lost. With this, he'd at least have a full day to go around the area. 

"Don't apologize to us for following your dreams, Shouyou." The two look to the sound of the voice, to find their mother there with a smile on her face. "We support you, always remember that. And whenever you're having a hard day and need to come home, we'll be here to welcome you back." 

"Mama..." Shouyou smiles. He really was very lucky, and he will never tell himself otherwise. 

"That's right Nii-chan! And I can't wait to tell my friends and teammates all about you when you make the team!" Natsu says as she shoves another piece of fish in her mouth. 

"Natsu! I told you I have to make the team first. There's definitely tons of competition for a spot on the team." He contemplates on this. He's both nervous and excited for tryouts, but he will definitely be doing his best, no matter who his competition is. 

Their mother goes to the countertop and picks up the lunch Shouyou made and smiles at her son. "Oh believe me, you'll make it." 

"Mama! Not you too! I don't wanna be overconfident about it." 

"Shouyou, I'm not saying it because of any other reason, but because I truly believe that you'll make it." She goes over to him and pats his head. "It doesn't matter to me how old you and Natsu ever grow up to be. I will always be your number one fan. And you always remember one thing, I am so very proud of you." 

" Thank you." Shouyou feels like crying, but he stops himself and opts for a wide smile instead. "I'll definitely ace tryouts, you'll see. I'll make sure they notice me."

"Yes you will!" Natsu chimes in. 

"I know you will." She thanks him for the meal he's made for her before kissing both kids on the cheek and making her way to the door. "By the way Shouyou, are your things packed for later?" 

"Yep! I made sure I had everything before going to sleep last night." He says with a proud smile. "I might end up leaving a little earlier though. I want to make sure I catch the train on time." 

This makes their mother stop in her tracks, and Natsu snicker. "Shouyou, did you think you were taking the train?" 

Shouyou is confused. "Yes? I mean, how else am I supposed to get to Osaka?" he asks as he tilts his head to the side. 

"Natsu." 

Natsu grins "Don't worry about it mama. Nii-chan will find out later anyway. So everyone agreed to keep quiet about it." 

"Keep quiet about what?" Shouyou asks again as he looks between them both. "Am I missing something?"

"It's a surprise." And what a surprise it was. 

 ---

Shouyou was just grabbing his things and about to head out the door, Natsu following behind him. "Nii-chan I really think you should wait a bit." 

"Sorry Natsu, if I wait any longer I might miss my train!" He ruffled her hair affectionately and continued "Take good care of mama while I'm away, okay?" 

"Nii-chan wait!" Natsu tries to grab Shouyou as he opens the door, but misses. He slides their door open and comes face to face with none other than Kozume Kenma and Kuroo Tetsurou. 

Shouyou blinks. And then again. And again. "Kenma-nii! Kuroo-nii! You made it just in time." he hears Natsu speak from behind him. 

"Yo, chibi-chan! What's up?" Kuroo's personality hasn't changed at least, Shouyou thinks. 

"Wha...what are you guys doing here?!" Shouyou gasps, as he looks over at the newcomers. 

"Shouyou." He looks over to Kenma who is smiling at him. "I'd like to think you owe me a better greeting than that." 

"Yeah, that's kinda hurtful chibi-chan. After we came all the way here to take you to Osaka." Kuroo says with a grin as he slings his arm around Kenma's shoulder. 

" You're taking me to Osaka?!" Shouyou exclaims again in shock. 

Kenma sighs, a small smile still on his face. He dislodges himself from Kuro’s hold and goes to envelope Shouyou in a hug. It takes a moment, but Shouyou relaxes and immediately hugs back. "Welcome home Shouyou." 

Shouyou feels someone ruffling his hair and he opens his eyes to see Kuroo there with a smile. "Glad to have you back Chibi-chan" 

He feels Kenma let go, and the gamer finally stands back to take a good look at Shouyou after all this time. "You look good." 

"Thanks Kenma! You too!" He grins. 

"Should I be jealous?" Kuroo asks with a smirk as he watches them, but one look from Kenma shuts him up as he raises his hand in resignation. He chuckles and shakes his head, allowing the two to continue talking.  

"You've changed too." Kenma continues as he grins. "I can't wait to see what else you're gonna do Shouyou." 

"If you get boring, I'll drop you."  

Shouyou ends up giving out a nervous laugh as he remembers Kenma's words from back then, just when Kenma offered to become his sponsor. But deep down, he knows that Kenma has only ever done everything he could to help Shouyou, and that was said in jest...probably. The former Nekoma setter was just really fascinated with him, for some reason. 

"As much as I love the touching reunion, we have to move folks. It's a 10 hour drive to Osaka!" Kuro exclaims as he pats their backs. 

Kuro and Kenma both begin to help Shouyou and Natsu bring the former's things to the car. While they're loading up, Shouyou continues to say thanks to his friends for taking the time to bring him to  their destination. "I really appreciate it you guys, thank you. I was fine with taking the train though!" 

Kenma scrunches his face in disapproval and replies "There's no way we'd let you take the train, not when we had the time to pick you up ourselves." 

"I hope you guys didn't put off anything important." he tells them. He knows how busy Kenma has been, as he's regularly kept in touch in Brazil. 

"I can manage Shouyou, don't worry too much about it." Kenma says with a wave of his hand. 

"What Kenma means to say, is that if he had it his way, he would have been the one to pick you up from the airport too. Unfortunately, he lost at a game of rock-paper-scissors to Tsukki and had to give the airport pickup to them. And he also wants you to know that he finished all his workload early to make sure we were free when you got here. So don't you worry about it." Kuroo says as he shuts the trunk and dusts his hands. He looks over at the two with a large grin before he feels someone lightly punch his side. 

Kenma gives Kuroo a glare and then another playful shove. "Just get in the car before I decide to leave you here Kuro." 

"Awww you'd never do that kitten." Kenma stares at Kuro with a piercing gaze, and Shouyou thinks if looks could kill, that was it. "Annndd I'll be quiet now. Come on chibi-chan! let's get you to Osaka!" 

Natsu waves at them animatedly as they all get in the car. She lets out a loud "Keep safe!" as they drive away from the Hinata household and begin their 10 hour car ride. 

The ride begins similarly to that of yesterday, filled with catching up and updates on how everyone else has been doing. Shouyou has had little contact with the former Nekoma team, with the exception of Kenma and Kuroo. This wasn't for the lack of trying either, but he’s only ever occasionally spoken to Inouka and Lev, and that's during one or two video calls during a day off. It isn't a surprise to him that team Nekoma have all worked their way up the ladder as they grew up, and even through their success, continued to stay connected within their own circle. Kenma and Kuroo themselves regularly spoke to all their former teammates and told Shouyou much of how they were all doing. 

"Waaah! I've heard from Lev about his modeling career! I didn't know he'd become such a big name in Russia." he exclaims excitedly. 

"Lev is still Lev. He might look pristine and proper in the photos, but he's just as loud as ever." Kenma says with a sigh, as if just talking about Lev was tiring him out. 

Kuroo guffaws. "At least he's mellowed down some because of Yaku." 

Shouyou tits his head "Are they?" 

Kuroo looks at him from the rearview mirror and smiles. "We can neither confirm nor deny, I'm afraid. Neither of them have said anything, but Yaku's sent us photos of them together. It's pretty common at this point, ever since Yakkun's been playing for the Russian V-League." 

"We hear he plans to come back though. There's some talk that they've begun to scout for players fit for the Japanese volleyball olympic team, and Yaku wants to be here and play for Japan." Kenma states, as he begins to fiddle with what seems like a new game console. 

"Ah yeah! Bokuto's been excited about that too. But he wants the Jackals to win this season first and finally kill the Alder's winning streak." Kuro tells them with a smirk. "And you know, they might actually be able to if you make it on the team chibi-chan." 

"Ahaha...well I'll definitely make sure to make an impression during tryouts." Shouyou says. "I can't wait to see Bokuto-san on Monday! I wonder if he'll be watching tryouts?" 

"From what Bo tells me, Coach Foster is requiring them to watch this year. He wants the whole team's opinion on getting a new player." Kuro replies. 

"Shouyou, what do you mean by seeing Bokuto on Monday?" Kenma immediately asks, putting his game down and turns to look at Shouyou. 

"Eh? I mean, I won't be seeing him till tryouts." Shouyou reiterates with a tilt of his head, when else would he find the time to see Bokuto-san? 

"Wait chibi-chan, aren't you going to..." Kuro doesn't get to finish. 

"Shouyou, where in Osaka are you staying? Sorry, we forgot to ask earlier." Kenma asks him. 

"Oh! Sorry, my bad. I was wondering if you guys knew of any affordable budget hotels that you can drop me off in that's near the tryouts gym?" Shouyou asks with a smile. He sees Kenma freeze and Kuroo's eyebrows shoot up. 

"..." Kenma stays silent for a little too long, and Shouyou wonders if he's said something he shouldn't have. 

"I can look one up though! So you guys can drop me off somewhere in the area and I should be able to find one that'll let me stay two nights!" 

"Kuro." That's all he hears Kenma say, before the rooster haired man is nodding and passing his phone to Kenma. 

"Got it. Just send the text out and let them know it's you. Shouldn't be a problem." Kuroo replies. Shouyou doesn't understand what's happening.

"Um." 

Kuroo looks over at him again. "Don't worry about it chibi-chan, we know exactly where to take you." 

"Really? Where?" He asks, confused. 

"You'll see." 

He can see Kenma vigorously typing a message using Kuroo's phone, and once he's done, looks over to Shouyou again with a smile. "You're not sleeping in a random hotel, Shouyou. I'm not letting you." 

"Eh?" 

"Don't worry though, we've already found a solution." Kenma continues with a smile. 

"Eeh?" 

"Better to just go with it, there's no stopping Kenma when he's like this." Kuroo grins again. 

"But..." Shouyou begins to protest. He really hopes his friends aren't spending money on him. "K-Kenma..." 

"But you know," Kenma stares at him then, with catlike eyes that seem to be boring into his soul. "If you ever do something like this again and not let me know, I'll be really upset Shouyou." 

"Eeehhhh?" Shouyou binks. He looks between the two and can't help his confusion from growing. 

What in the world is Kenma talking about? And where in the world were they taking him?! 

CHAPTER 1 BELOW

[moonelluffer]

"I Choose You!" Leon X Reader One-Shot

Galar Region

          You are laying in bed at your hotel room in Motosoke at the Budew Inn. You had just beaten the Gym Leader Kabu and his fire type pokemon with your trusty sidekick Scornbunny, who had been given to you by your friend Hop's brother Leon. Scornbunny and you had this connection the first time you two had layed eyes on each other. It was almost like you two were meant to be. This is why picking the small fire rabbit was so easy for you.

Year 2020

          As you started to get up from the bed, you looked out the window to see that it was raining outside. Looking over at Scornbunny laying on the floor in a corner you began to chuckle to yourself. Luckily, the carpet is soft and not to rough for the creatures' fur, giving him some cushioning to lay on while he slept.

          Getting up from the bed, you want to go take a shower, brush you teeth and get ready for the day. After showering and finishing up your hygiene in the bathroom you grabbed your [F/C] simple dress and put it on, along with her [F/C] high top socks and equally as [F/C] combat boots. Looking in the mirror you didn't know what you wanted to do with your [H/L] [H/C] hair that day, so you decided to brush the knots out and let it hang down for the day.

          After waking Scorbunny up you were all set and ready to go out the door. As you left the apartment you ran right into Hop, Leon's younger brother who was equally as excited as you were about continuing on to the next gym.

          "Hey [Y/N]! You all set and ready for the next Gym Leader? I heard Allistar is pretty tough and doesn't take it easy on anyone!" Hop said in a very excited tone. He seemed to be really pumped about taking on the Ghost Type Gym Leader.

          "Yeah, I would say I'm pretty excited as well. Winning this will turn into my next stepping stone for beating your brother in the finals." you had stated more calmly but still as excited as Hop.

          "I wouldn't get too sure of yourselves about that!" ??? Said

          You snapped your head around to see the one and only Champion Leon standing behind you in his usual outfit and crown design hat. As he steps closer to you and Hop his 6 foot tall frame towers over you're [Y/H] height. You begin to feel flustered by the sight of him and lose your words. Leon notices you expression and looks at you while giving you a smirk.

          "What's wrong? Meowth got your tongue." he says sarcastically while tilting his head slightly.

          "I-I ... I-uhhh.." you muster out in a weak tone. You begin to get frustrated not knowing why all of a sudden you can't come up with a decent response to his witty remark. As you are standing there lost in your own thoughts Leon can see the annoyance on your face.

          "Hey hun, I'm just messing with you. It's ok." he states in a tone that sounds apologetic while walking up to you and placing his hand on your shoulder.

          "Riiiiggghhht..... Yea... I knew that!" You respond back in an unsure what to say tone. "Well anyway as I was sayi-"

          "How about we all grab some breakfast or coffee before you guys decide to continue on with your journey, shall we?" Leon states cheerfully cutting you off in the process. "I know a really good place where you can get some really good coffee. It's called the "Battle Café", it's most definitely worth a try." Leon continues on.

          "I would, but I'd much rather train up my team for the next gym badge, so I can beat [Y/N] next time I see her again." Hop says confidently to you and his brother Leon. Hop then proceeds to run off without saying another word. You are then left standing there in the hallway of the hotel with the one and only Champion Leon.

          "I guess ... that just makes the two of us! If, you are still up for having the best coffee in town." Leon says confidently. While staring back at you waiting for your response.

          "Yea. Sure we can get some coffee together. What's the name of the place again?" You respond questionably.

          "It's the "Battle Cafè". Come on! Follow me and I'll show you where it is, and this time I won't get lost." Leon answers while gesturing his hand for you to follow as you both make your way to the hotel elevators so you guys can head back to the main floor. As you both were heading out and too the cafè, you couldn't help but fixate your [E/C] eyes on Leon. It was almost like something about him put you in this trance-like state. You watched as he turned to look back at you. His golden amber eyes locking onto your shimmering gentle [E/C] eyes. It was like there was something about you just couldn't re-

          "HELLO! Galar Region to [Y/N]!" Leon said loudly.

          Your thoughts were immediately cut off and your face became red. Feeling stunned and taken a back at the sudden interruption of thoughts you're [S/C] was starting to become visibly even redder. You stood there dumbfounded and the only thing you could muster was:

          "S-s-sorry  ... I must have been dozing off into space." You stammered out the best you could while putting your arm on your other arm and tilting your head down so that your [H/L] [H/C] covered your extremely red face.

         "I was gonna shake you if I couldn't get you to stop staring at me like that. Hahaha!" He stated happily. As if your face couldn't get even more red, it did. You began to shrink down even more and shake alittle from all the emotion you were feeling. Leon noticed you were not ok and rested his hand on your shoulder gently.

          "Hey, are you ok? You've been out of it lately. If you do want we can go back to your hote-

          "No! I'm fine! Everything is fine. I guess my mind has been else where lately, but I would still love to be around you." you shout loudly while cutting Leon off abruptly.

          "Very well my lady. Let us go inside and grab something." Leon replies back with a causal but charming tone. He gracefully grabs your small hand and brings you inside the Cafè. He asks the waiter at the front for a table for two and as you both make your way over to your assigned seat, you could not help but blush more at how well put together and gentleman like he was.

          As you both sat down from across each other the waitress walked over to take both you and orders of drinks.

          "Hello, what can I get for the two of you today." The chipper waitress asked.

          "Two orders of your finest coffee please." Leon stated. The waitress then walked off to get your cups of coffee and both you and Leon were left there to too look at one another until a conversation sparked.

          "So are trying to bring me on this date to smooth talk me into how I plan to kick your butt when I battle you." You remarked jokingly at Leon.

          "Haha! Very funny, but no actually. I wanted to just talk casual with you. Get to know you more as a person, not just as a trainer." Leon replied back.

           "Really? You wanna know stuff about me? What would you even wanna know about me, because my life isnt all that exciting as yours." You replied.

           "I beg to differ, if I may. I'm positive you are more interesting than you found yourself to be, and my life is more stressful than exciting and sometimes, I just wish to get away from it all." Leon responded

           Listening to his response did raise your attention quite alot. "But, if it stresses you out. Why do you do what you do then? I'm sorry if this question seems silly, but I am confused." You questioned.

           "There is no such thing as a silly question, so you are fine. To further elaborate, what I mean is I set out on my journey to be the greatest pokemon trainer of the Galar Region, not to sign my life away and become some brand to the world. I wanted to do it to inspire others. To show them that if somone like me, a person who came from nothing, was able to it! Anyone can do it too!" Leon explained proudly.

           You couldn't help but fall even deeper for him after him saying this. It was comforting to hear him talk like a person instead of this facade he walks around portraying to the whole entire region of Galar. "So -."

          "Well, I might as well stop talking about this. I don't need to be throwing all my Champion life problems onto you. I got myself into this mess after all." Leon stated with great sadness to his voice while cutting you off.

          You looked at him and could see the pained expression on his face. He was definitely bothered by it all and despite him trying to hide it. It was showing more and more as you kept talking.

          You felt compelled to reach your hand over and grab his hand gently but firmly.  He raised his head a bit and his amber eyes looked back into your [E/C] eyes. As your eyes were locked onto each other, you knew in that moment you really loved this man and wanted to be with him.

          "Hey, I just want to say. It's ok, and if you need someone to listen to what really goes on in your head, I am here. You don't need to pretend anymore." You stated softly to him. You could see tears start well up in his eyes for sec and then they dissapeared.

          "T-thank you." Leon stammered softly.

          The coffee than arrived and you both drank it together and made some causal talk with one another. Leon learned that you also liked to walk around the Wild Area quite alot and you learned that he often enjoys making pasta and curry for people. As your conversation continued on you knew you were knee deep in love with him and there was no escaping that.

          After you guys finished your 3rd round of coffee. You realized how late it was getting. It was literally a quarter past 7. You guys have been talking for quite some time. After Leon payed for the check you both than proceeded to walk out and make your two separate ways, but before you were able to go Leon grabbed your arm as you were turning to leave. You stopped and looked back at him and saw he had that same expression he had on earlier when you saw him cry alittle.

          "Are you okay Leon?" You asked calmly. He looked at you for a bit and slowly moved towards you. You guys were about a few inches apart and this made you realize how much he towered over you. You knew he was tall, but never realised how tall. This caused you to blush slightly having him this close to you and looming above your small stature.

          You stare up at him, lost in eyes unaware of your actions anymore you find yourself going up on your toes and planting a kiss on face. Since you are so short you end up missing so your top lip came into contact with his bottom lip. Leon stiffens slightly and you feel as though you made a mistake doing this until Leon pulls back alittle and returns the favor with a proper kiss, not missing this time.

          Your eyes widen slightly surprised at his reaction, but you start to relax. You carefully but slowly  wrap your arms around his neck and let your body arch back slightly to allow you to brush up against his chest until there is no gap between you two. You melt into the kiss and allow him to slip his tongue into your mouth for alittle bit. After a few minutes you both proceed to let go of each other so you both could breath.

          Leon looks down at you and smiles his charming smile at you, the same smile that caused you to fall head over heels for him in the first place. "Good luck trying to beat in the final match now." He teasingly remarks while his arms are still wrapped around your waist holding you close to him.

          "Oh hush! You're not THAT charming!" Yoy playfully respond. Leon raises an eyebrow at you as if indicating he doesn't believe what you said, but you just playfully push him and laugh. "I'll see you tomorrow. I gotta head home." You say while turning to leave.

          "We should do this again sometime. You are a comforting person and I haven't felt that feeling in such a long time." Leone states while turning away and making his way back home. You watch ad he leaves and you couldn't help but blush and smile to yourself.

[creekqueen27]

Control (Pennywise) 2

[I always listen to music, mainly one song during writing a chapter to get the feels really going. This is the one I mainly listened to during writing this chapter. It's different for every chapter. I'll be posting them, happy reading <3]

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The necessities. That's all that were packed away in the few suitcases that used to lay in the back of the large closet, collecting dust. A new apartment awaited the arrival of it's new occupant, on the more dangerous side of town. The perfect place to settle into. The pictures that hung on the walls, all the false happiness within the memories. It still burns to look at them. The pure, true hope that I had.. pure stupidity. I shake my head as I exit the home-his home. This was no longer my place. As I drove the small, slightly beaten up car across town it was deadly silent around me. The perfect way to drown in my emotions. I boiled in negativity all the way into the apartment. The anger finally rising to the surface. A few things were unpacked here and there. Pacing and thinking occupied most of my time. Deciding on the first victim took a bit of thought as I scrolled through photos of his friends. The smartphone had a photo of a smiling young man on the screen, my first target. His work friend, who first introduced him to his new lover. "Brian.." I mumble to myself. What a mistake you've made. You poor, poor soul. You have no idea what's coming to you.

I get an outfit ready, knowing where he'd be tonight. He'd always go out on the weekends with 'the boys from work'. I was probably cheated on nearly every weekend and I didn't even know it. I may just have quite a feast tonight. In fact... I fully intend to.

I go to Brian's usual weekend hang out spot, a little bar near the edge of town. I walk up to the door and enter, nearly immediately spotting him with a trio of guys. I purposefully walk by them slowly, hearing a few whispers about my body. I smirk to myself and sit at the bar by myself, ordering a drink. I grow bored when I realize they're going to be a while. I pass by them again to exit the bar, giving them a good show on the way out, raising my shirt up a bit and doing a sexual gesture before motioning them outside. I doubt Brian even remembers me, if he does, he'd be too drunk to realize it- until it's too late.

I stand outside, waiting for them to exit the small bar. Finally, I recognize a few guys stumbling out of the door. One, two, three, four... yummy. I am pretty hungry.

"I could stand to spoil myself to a nice meal tonight." I smirk to myself as I purposefully strut over to them leaving my spot underneath the streetlight, careful to keep my face partially hidden in the shadows of my long hair. I hear two of them whistle at me as I sway my hips. Idiots.

"You boys wanna have some fun?" I asked in a flirty voice while pushing my chest out.

"Hell yeah baby!" One said. There was slurred agreement all around. I smirked to myself. Quite a feast, indeed.

"Follow me, I know somewhere we can go where we won't be interrupted." I say with a giggle. I start down the sidewalk, towards the edge of town and farther away from the city. "It's not much farther." I say as I hear one of them whisper a complaint on the length of the journey.

"Why do we have to go so far?" He asks, slurring his speech. I stop and turn around, running my hands down my chest and stopping at my sides.

"I'm a screamer. I get pretty loud. You boys look promising, I'm sure I won't be disappointed. I don't want to be interrupted either." I say in a sultry voice. He immediately perks up and quickens his pace. I smile at his actions, so eager. I can't help but giggle a bit. I go across the road and towards the woods, taking them close to the creek around the barrens. No one will hear them here.

I walk to the edge of the creek and stop, turning to look at them. The moon is so bright tonight, I can see them perfectly. I smile at them, they're standing in a near perfect line watching me intensely.

"Are you gonna strip for us first babe?" Brian asks. I giggle and bite my finger, feeling my fangs begin to come out. I walk over to him, slowly while swaying my hips. I circle around him while touching his chest lightly. I repeat this with each one, feeling an odd and sudden sensation of being watched. I ignore it and continue. I couldn't be identified even I am being watched. No one would believe the truth, anyway.

I convince myself to continue with my plan. I get to the tallest one, he looks the fastest. I put my hands on his face and bring his head down to mine. Just as he thinks I'm going to kiss him, I lunge for his neck biting and ripping with my teeth. Warm, beautiful blood begins spewing everywhere. The rest of the guys have a delayed reaction because of the alcohol in their system, but they scatter once they realize what just happened.

"Crazy bitch!" One screams as he tries running for the hill. I'm faster, I catch up to him grab his ankle, successfully crushing the bone and immobilizing him; at least until I can have my full attention on him. I look frantically for Brian as the anger rises more and more, seeing him running across the creek. I target him, my speed faster than that of a human. I tackle him into the creek, smelling his blood. He must have hit a sharp rock hard, the water is already turning red. I catch a faint scent of someone-something..

I open my mouth, and dig my teeth into his jugular, drinking him down quickly. I feel the smooth, warm blood in my throat, a delightful feeling. The one with the broken ankle is struggling hard, the tall one is dead, I'm drinking Brian.. where's the other-

"WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT!" I hear the fourth one scream in pure terror while falling next to the one with the broken ankle. I stop drinking, Brian's long dead, and turn to look at what's going on. I see a tall silhouette lunge at my food. Blood goes everywhere. That must have been who I was smelling. Not only did they take one of my foods, but they started attacking the one with the broken ankle too!

"Hey! What the hell! They're mine!" I scream over to them in anger, completely offended. "I got them here, get your own!" I call as I begin walking over. I hear a- what I can only describe as maniacal- giggle as they stand to their full height. Much, much taller than me. I can't see their face, tilted down and hidden in shadows. Definitely not human, though. Is that red hair?

"Well, you're more than welcome to try to take them back from me." A male voice with a slight lisp says happily. Maybe I shouldn't push my luck...

I sigh angrily, nearly growling. I can't fucking believe this. "I don't want to have to hurt you, too." I lie. Honestly, I'm a little nervous. I'm not sure if I can take him or not. He's bigger than me, and seems to be much stronger than me too. I have no idea what he is. Is he even a he?

"Oh, are you going to hurt me?" He laughs, nearly mocking me, "That's not very likely" He says arrogantly, a slight lisp still in his voice. I roll my eyes and stare at him. What an ass. Something catches my eye, a red balloon floating towards me. I glance at between it and him, not sure what's going on anymore. The balloon gets closer and closer until it's right in front of me. It slowly spins, printed words revealing a message before suddenly popping and two of my victims, along with that arrogant thief, are gone. I look around me in every direction, searching for any sign of any of them.

Nothing. It's like they disappeared into thin air. I roll my eyes and look back at Brian lying in the creek, little to no blood left in his body as the water is tinted a beautiful shade of red. I walk over to the tall guy laying on the creek bank with his jugular ripped out. I sigh as he, too, has little to no blood. I'm not starving, in fact I'm quite full.. but I'm still pissed off.

"What in the hell just happened? Who was that?!" I sigh angrily while walking back towards town, towards my new apartment. A shower intended for relaxation turns to a nearly obsessive, repetitive brainstorming session. He wasn't one of me.. he ate their flesh..

Where did he come from?

How long was he watching us?

Has he always been here in Derry?

Why did he eat their flesh?

What is he??

I turn off the water that's going cold quickly, these questions still running through my mind as I dry myself off and get dressed. I stretch before crawling into bed and grabbing my phone, looking through social media. I smile as I read a post about a party in two nights. A good way to sharpen my hunting skills again.. I think with a smile, hopeful that I might run into someone on my drink list and just kill two birds with one stone. Should I make the new lovers the next ones; or should I make them watch as everyone around them that had a hand in my pain, dies? Decisions, decisions... Just before sleep overtakes me, my mind wonders back to the creek around the barrens. The thief.. what kind of creature could he be.. and how dangerous is he to me? Should I be worried.. cautious?

The last thing running through my mind is the strange message on the balloon...

"We belong..."

________________________________________________________

Okay guys, so I know it's a little rough but there will be more of our favorite guy in the next chapter and he's obviously gonna be a regular in the chapters. I plan on having his 'human' form involved just about as much as his 'clown' form. Also, of course, this in the fanfiction universe so please don't get too bent out of shape that his entire being isn't like it is in the novel (Which I haven't read all the way through.)

Comments, suggestions, requests for oneshots, let me know <3

[ty-talks-comics]

Best of DC: Week of August 14th, 2019

Best of DC: Week of August 14th, 2019

Best of this Week: Justice League Odyssey #12 - Dan Abnett, Will Conrad, Rain Beredo and Andworld Design

Darkseid is.

The former ruler of Apokalips’ plans have finally come to fruition after the small team of heroes brings together the final few relics to complete Sepulkore, the planet that will release a wave of cosmic energy all over the Ghost Sector and make it immune to the destruction of the Multiverse. Narrated by Darkseid, this issue expands on how far back he’s had these ideas and plans in place, even anticipating the betrayal from Cyborg, Starfire and Azrael from the beginning. He hasn’t been lying to them at all, but rather, omitting a few things so that his plans would proceed as they naturally would.

In the last issue we see Darkseid take control of Cyborg, turning him into a dangerous, Motherbox like being with all of the knowledge of the universe and more at his disposal. Darkseid orders Cyborg to keep Azrael and Jessica Cruz distracted while he fights an enraged Starfire. He sees the spark in her eyes and flings her into the core of Sepulkore, where she was destined to be the flame that lit the fire pits of this new hell. As Sepulkore awakens, Darkseid becomes even more powerful. Azrael is left with no other choice than to call his warriors into the fight as well.Unfortunately for him, as soon as the Azraelites enter Darkseid’s presence, they are turned into a new fodder-force: Para-Angels. Azrael succumbs to Darkseid’s control soon after as well. 

With all of the pieces falling into place, Darkseid smiles. His new Apokalips is lit and it connects with all of the other remaining relics in the Ghost Sector, becoming a reality unto itself. Darkseid monologues to himself that he has always known that the Source Wall would fall and the Multiverse would be destroyed eventually. Since his early years, Darkseid has been lying in wait, creating myths of heroes that would be Gods and those Gods would serve him. The Eternal One - Darkseid.

His new acolytes look upon him, chanting “Darkseid is,” as he returns to his full power. Jessica Cruz stands tall against him, however. I want to take a moment to say how much I love her journey as a character. She started out as this young girl that could barely leave her apartment and she could barely control her fears which allowed Power Ring from Earth 3 take control of her. Since then she has fought to get past her fears, anxieties and PTSD to become one of the most courageous Lanterns in all of the Green Lantern Corps. 

With only about two percent power left in her ring, she tells Darkseid that she will not let him win. His plans will fail if she has anything to do about it and Darkseid is mildly impressed. Darkseid could crush her, without question. She’s barely a fly on his rader, but he’s super into her tenacity. He offers her a place at the table, he cold become as powerful as Cyborg, Starfire or Azrael, a New God of Indomitable Will as Darkseid puts it.

Jessica says “Screw You,” and plants Darkseid with a mean right cross, firmly planting her in the same club as Guy Gardner and Hal Jordan, the “Are You Absolutely Insane? You Really Thought It Was A Good Idea to Punch HIM?” Club

Summarily, he swats her away, crushes her ring hand and Omega Beams her to hell.

*HEAVY SPOILERS ARE HEAVY*

Summarily, he slaps her, crushes her ring hand and Omega Beams her to hell.

*HEAVY SPOILER HOURS ARE OVER*

Will Conrad does the art for this issue and every single page is a wonder to look at. Darkseid is made to look unreasonably imposing as his power increases over time. Cyborg with his advanced mech body looks like a thing of terror as he has a faceguard only over his mouth and his human eye is a milky white. I also appreciate how his metal parts are shaded to give them a sheen. Sepulkore itself is drawn with an immense sense of scale and the architecture of it complex and effective, looking like a huge dodecahedron. Darkseid himself even has a new design that mimics some of his Superman: TAS look with tights added.

Justice League Odyssey might be one of the best ongoing Justice League stories right now because of how different it is to the rest of them. With a team almost as strange as the mid-2000s R.E.B.E.L.S. team and it being centered around an even stranger area of space, everything is so cool. Though there have been a few artists, each have taken different approaches to make all of the different locations and character designs cool.

What should really be applauded is the work when it comes to Beredo’s colors. For the most part, this book is awash in an oppressive red hue as Darkseid become stronger as the book goes on. This color blends well with Starfire’s fiery starbolts and Azrael’s flaming sword. It also worked best with Jessics Cruz being the only contrasting color in the bunch as her green made her the hopeful hero. Beredo makes everything feel dire as hell and it really sells the mood of the book.

I can’t wait for the next issue of the series because Darkseid has effectively won. He has a new Apokalips that he can rule from away from the dangers of the Multiverse and Perpetua. With his new New Gods, the Dark Sector will be another oppressive entity that Darkseid can hatch his schemes from with he regained power. The best question of all, however… who will stop him?

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

Barry Allen is back and better than before.

Runner Up: The Flash #76 - Joshua Williamson, Rafael Sandoval, Jordi Tarragona, Tomeu Morey and Steve Wands

After re-living one of his first adventures as The Flash, Barry sees just how out of touch with things that he has been lately. He realizes that he hasn’t taken the time to slow down since Wally returned and he’s just been throwing himself into adventure after adventure without any regard for his friends and family and it has caused their lives to suffer because of it.

Iris has practically left him. Wallace West distanced himself from Barry as much as possible, even going so far as to briefly join a team with Deathstroke. Avery, the Flash of China, isn’t even that close to Barry, but he also left her and Wallace in the middle of an argument just before he went off on his Force Quest. In an effort to put a stop to the Rogues that have now branched out of Central City, he’s been going through the escapees left and right.

We begin with Kid Flash and Avery fighting with Girder and Tarpit in the middle of Central City. The two young Speedsters are quick, but not all is right as they have a hard time putting any serious damage on either. Just as Tarpit is about to burn them alive, Barry zips in and saves the teens.

Rafa Sandoval is absolutely one of my favorites of DC’s current crop of artists and my favorite Flash artist. His slick lines and shading combined with Morey’s coloring and Tarragona’s inks makes everything look smooth. Costumes look good, bright and vibrant. Flash’s deep red stands out and compliments Wally’s yellow and surprisingly Avery’s dark pink and purples. Shadows are appropriately dark and every blast of lightning and every blur is stunning to see.

Barry gives his young proteges some advice in dealing with Tarpit and Girder, allowing the young speedsters to defeat the villains. After the win, Wallace is less than enthused to see Barry again and begins to walk away before Barry asks them both to run with him, to see how he's trying to make up for his mistakes.

Begrudgingly they agree and we get another amazing shot of Barry running while flanked by Avery and Wallace. I really loved this because it reminded me of the old Flash Family days and because Barry is really trying his best.

He shows them the rebuilt Flash Museum and they're amazed that he managed to rebuild it all by himself. Barry reveals that there's something more and they use their vibration abilities to enter their new headquarters, which I don't have a pun for yet. They're greeted by Commander Cold(?) And Steadfast, the new avatar of the Still Force, and Barry explains what's been going on with their powers.

Wallace had been noticing small things, but he thought it was all in his head. Apparently with the release of all of these new forces, the Speed Force is collapsing under the weight of these new forces that aren't supposed to exist alongside it. This is further backed up as The Black Flash returns for a cliffhanger ending.

As all of this is going on, in another city altogether, Heatwave is causing havoc, seemingly with his own heat powers having returned. The cops show up to confront him, but are suddenly incapacitated by blasts of ice. Captain Cold, Leonard Snart, has begun to gather his Rogues. With updated Cold Gear, to mirror his own New 52 ice powers, he hands Heatwave a Heat Gun and he two OG Rogues reunite to gather the rest of the troops and finally take down The Flash.

With this first part being so affectionately referred to as "The Death of the Speed Force part 1" I can't imagine that any of this will end well. The Speed Force has been in existence for the better part of almost 30+ years now and there's a good chance that we've seen all that we possibly can from it. It's been used to trap people, reset universes and even bring back past Speedsters for big events.

With the Speed Force dying, now's a great opportunity for new stories to be told with the Flashes exploring new ways for their powers to work if the Speed Force does indeed get destroyed in the future. But what will this mean for other speedsters still trapped like Jai and Iris West II, and Jay Garrick? Will they be immediately freed or will Doomsday Clock somehow tie into things? Only time will tell! High recommend!

[muddyorbsblr]

Hoo boi it's Loki Essay Hours I guess…

Why do you specifically enjoy writing Loki?

Let's get this on the table before I start talking and I might forget to mention it. I was a fan of Loki as a character before I was a fan of Tom. I didn't start thirsting until around Ragnarok, but I always liked the character.

Loki was the first complex character that I'd encountered brought to life in mainstream media. From the beginning of the first Thor movie it was obvious that he was going to be the "bad guy", the complete opposite of Thor to the point that they would end up on opposing sides in the final battle. We knew he was going to be the villain.

And yet we were taken on a journey of discovery in the screen time with him. We felt his horror, his disbelief, his denial. We knew what he was about to discover about himself and yet we wished for this character to not have to come to a discovery so horrifying for him. We watched his whole belief system shatter and we were brought to understand why he would eventually do the deeds that he did.

This doesn't forgive his misdeeds, but we are brought to understand him. Some even, to the point that when he's brought to want to destroy worlds and be given what he's due, we want to destroy those worlds with him. We want him to have what's due to him.

And yet as beautiful and complex a character that he is, there's a lot of room in that delivery that can be explored. I enjoy reading about him from the minds of my fellow fic writers and writing about him because we get that opportunity to explore that room. And for that we have Tom to thank because he was the one who first did the research and he was the first one of us to fall in love with the character that he brought to life. He was the one who showed us that "hey I left these traits in for you to discover so you can bring him into a direction that I can't because it's not in the script".

One of the terrifying headcanons that I've subscribed to is that occasionally Tom reads what we write. To some degree he's seen the directions and the nuances we've added to this character that he absolutely adores. He's seen the vulnerabilities we've explored that he can't show completely. The intimate moments that scripts never give him time for. And yes, of course, the kinks. When I say I think he knows, I really mean I think he knows. 😳😏

What are some of his characteristics which are particularly interesting (totally sexy) to you?

I'm gonna start with his mind. And I believe that this goes hand in hand with his magic. In order to wield the magic that he contains with the precision and expertise that he exhibits, to the point where it almost seems like it's as natural as breathing for him, he would need to have a strong mind. This is someone who sees thousands of ways a fight can play out and plans accordingly, someone who can think on his feet and act on both reflexes and strategy at the same time. Someone who looked at the ways of war and realized that physical training will only come so far, so he trained his mind, too.

Now that that's out of the way, I can thirst lol. So let's go next to his voice, which I must once again thank Tom profusely for this because the voice he fashioned for Loki is the type that could lead me to the very gates of my own damnation and I wouldn't even be mad.

I could keep going down the physical attributes route but I won't because I can't go into talking about the physical attributes of Loki without talking about Tom. Those two are interlinked and I can't possibly talk about Loki physically without asking myself "wait am I still talking about Mischief or am I talking about Hiddles?" So I'm not gonna go there 🤣🤣

I will, however, finish this off with a quote from Anthony Mackie, I believe. "Something kinky about that dude". 😏

Which 5 aspects are absolute headcannon for your Loki AU? Like the top 5 must haves ;)

The outward confidence and the aloofness is a defense mechanism and he's always looking for someone who can bring out a vulnerability in him that he wants to share with them and only them. And when he finds this person he wants to build a friendship first, but then he plateaus and wonders how he could turn this into something more and that's usually the starting point of my stories.

He's a sweet tooth. I don't know why this is such a widely accepted headcanon for him, and I have no idea how it even came about (actually you know what no I know the how…it's because Tom's a sweet tooth) but I love it and I haven't brought it to my stories quite yet but one of my Lokis is gonna have a bonding moment with Y/N over this I swear--

He's constantly afraid of losing you. Whether it be by you deciding that you're better off with someone else, or losing you by death, he's just always afraid. The first part of it stems from people always favoring Thor over him ever since they were children, so he's especially afraid (even if you think it's unreasonable because Thor's just a whole himbo) of you waking up one day and thinking that maybe you ended up with the wrong brother. The second part stems from your lifespan being significantly shorter than his. By thousands of years. (and yes, this will be explored in a oneshot…very soon)

He doesn't need much sleep so for most of the night he watches over you, ready to counter any night terrors that might be plaguing you by giving you dreams of his favorite memories with you. (This will absolutely be something that happens in relinquish the crown). He also spends this time thinking of new little ways to show you he loves you because he knows that you're not the grand gesture type. You are, however, a romantic speech type, and he's also constantly composing in his head because of it.

He pictured calling you hundreds of terms of endearment before he ultimately landed on the ones that call you precious or play on your being mortal (e.g. 'precious little mortal'). And also landing on 'darling' and 'dear heart' in the process. There's a time and a place for him to call you 'pet', but they're few and far in between because he sees it as painting you as something beneath him and lesser than him and in his eyes you're his equal so he doesn't ever want to make you feel lesser (unless you ask him…or you tell him to "fuck you like you're a brothel worker in Asgard" and poke fun at his age while you're at it 😏😏)

Which character besides Loki and Thor is relatively easy for you to bring to live?

Wanda with her chaotic bestie energy. This was something that was sorely unexplored in the MCU except for a few fleeting moments when she was around Agnes (not Agatha, mind you, Agnes) throughout the first half of WandaVision. After that they gave her gloom and doom but once I saw the potential for chaotic bestie in her I knew I had to bring that back in the personification of her in my stories somehow.

Morgan because she's a precious bb who just adores everybody on the team and is completely fearless even around the brother gods. I mean this is the only one brave enough to steal from Thor's pop tarts in broad daylight. And the only other one who ran to Loki and gave him a hug. She is precious and must be protected at all costs.

Everyone else has the same level of difficulty for me, except for maybe Rhodes, Banner, and Clint…I don't really know how to write them individually. The ones that I find extremely difficult and I may never explore apart from brief cameos are the Guardians, Captain Marvel, and The Defenders.

Someone I do, however, want to explore writing…is Kilgrave. I don't know I feel like I could make a story with him as the villain…we'll see 😳

Dom Loki or Sub Loki? If you had to choose😁

I haven't explored writing either, but if I had to choose which one to explore first (after doing extensive research so that I don't look a fool when I write the story of course), Dom Loki.

Dom Loki, Sub Tom. But we already knew that 😉😏

@gigglingtigger @lokischambermaid @holymultiplefandomsbatman @fictive-sl0th @lokisgoodgirl @vbecker10 @michelleleewise @mochie85 @simplyholl @lokikissesmyforehead @holdmytesseract

Heyhoo lovely😊❤️

I just picked up the mission to brighten your Saturday I hope it works hehe🤣

Soo… my question is why do you specifically enjoy writing Loki?

What are some of his characteristics which are particularly interesting (totally sexy) to you?

Which 5 aspects are absolute headcannon for your Loki AU? Like the top 5 must haves ;)

Which character besides Loki and Thor is relatively easy for you to bring to live?

Dom Loki or Sub Loki? If you had to choose😁

Plus I’ll leave this here for you bc it made me giggle so maybe it helps you too;

His hands and the cheekbones and the fluffy curls …erm yes where was I?🤣

THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR AWESOME WORK AND BEING SUCH A WONDERFUL, KIND HUMAN❤️❤️

Helllooooo my love!! Thank you for taking on this mission 😂 I'm actually having a really lovely day so this is making it even better.

Why do I specifically enjoy writing Loki?

He's just such a joy to write. I feel like I have a fairly good understanding of him as a character in my head and how that translates to certain...scenarios. I'm just kind of obsessed with his whole vibe, and I love seeing how my HC Loki will react in various situs I put him in.

Top Five Loki Headcanons (that help me create 'my' Loki)

He exudes confidence and smarm and absolutely knows how alluring he is

As a partner, he's extremely irritating in his self-righteousness, but he's so damn loveable and sexy that it's fine 🤣

In every conversation, he is waiting to make 'the' remark

He's always watching. Absorbing information.

He falls into Norwegian when he's incandescent with pleasure as explored in CF*cks.

He's a screamer, but also enjoys the Clandestine element of forbidden liaisons and having to stay quiet. Common theme 🤣

There are absolutely tonnes more but y'all have things to do.

What other characters do I find easy to bring to life (aside from Loki&Thor)

I suppose that's for others to decide on the effectiveness but I do enjoy the Wanda I seem to have conjured. Sassy BFF energy. I also find Wilson very fun to write, and Satchel! Steve of course.

Dom or Sub Loki if I ✨had✨ to choose?

Soft! Dom Loki all the damn day 😂

Would be supppper interested to hear anyone else's thoughts on these Qs!

@gigglingtigger @lokischambermaid @holymultiplefandomsbatman @fictive-sl0th @muddyorbs @vbecker10 @michelleleewise @mochie85 @simplyholl @lokikissesmyforehead @holdmytesseract