#i think i'm doing fine does it sound like it :)

[delusionsofmid-daymoon]

As a your turn to die fan, yes! Yeeeess!!!

I know her betrayal will have a big impact on Damon, But he having an Eva hallucination was something i never knew i needed.

Imagine if what trigers it isn't only reminders of her, but Damon getting closer to others

I can see Damon developing trust issues after that, and with Eva being both his main trauma and root cause of his issues, i can see her halucinations in this case being like paranoid intrusive thoughts, moking him for being naive again

and if Damon ignores this issue instead of getting help(like we know he would) it gets worse and worse until one day....

He is getting along with someone, the mercifull pachinko smilled to him this day, it's...nice, to take his mind out of this whole situation for a while, to forget they were trapped and think about homemade frappes and the quality of limited edition donuts and stupid trends people made by mixing up old ideas that were already copycats from others, Damon can feel the corners of his mouth lift up a little.

And then sudenly Eva is menancingly appearing besides Damon, her voice drowing the sounds around him

"Oh, you're going to trust him too? It seems you are getting along, he likes you... or does he?" Damon can hear fire clackles "Does he really like you? Does he trust you....?" Her hand is slowly getting closer to his eye, nails buried on her flesh, blood staining her white blazer.....he can... smell....burnt meat... Damon is frozen in place, his breath is quickening

Her fingers cover his face's left side, it's wet....he can feel blood dripping from his eye to his cheek, Damon lets out a small whimp, Eva gets closer, the fire crackles get louder, black and red...her face....is...is...

"Did *I* trust you?" She whispered

Two hands grab his shoulders

And Damon screams

He desperally gets away, his back must have hit a wall, but Damon wouldn't know, he can't see it, he can't see anything but fire and blodstained stairs and Eva getting closer and closer, trying to pull him down to fall in hell with her

"NO! NO! NO NO NO! GET AWAY FROM ME!!!! PLEASE!!! NO!!!! PLEASE DON'T!!!"

"DAMON!!!" Kai screamed, trying to get his attention "Damon w-what's wrong? Did i do something? I- i swear w-wont hurt you, here! I'll stay away if it is what you want" Kai took several steps away from Damon

"S-see? You're safe, everthing is okay" Kai repeated variations of "everthing is fine" and "you're okay, you're safe" and "i won't do anything, i swear" for a while, his speech frantic, Damon screams gave place to sobs and heartbreaking whimps, he slid down the wall until he sat on the floor.

Damon's eyes... they were glazed and at the same time terrified, it was like Damon didn't know Kai was there, like he was seeing throught him, tears making a trail on his cheks, it was almost the same look he had after the first trial "Damon, can you...hear me? Plea- please look at me, please say something..."

Damon kept sobbing, but Kai could make out some words in between "...sorry...i'm...please....Eva...i'm sorry...."

Kai's blood ran cold, he was trembbling, he didn't know what to do, he wanted to help, but he didn't know how, he had no idea of how to deal with something like this, he was scared of acidentally making things worse, of scaring Damon even more...

"Eva...i'm sorry..."

As he stood there, whatching Damon on the floor, Kai never felt so useless.

i want them to have a joesara yttd moment. eva haunt the narrative girl i believe in you

[alchemistc]

Listen I know @cecilyv and @liminalmemories21 are slow cooking an absolute masterpiece of a Mummy AU that I am going to eat like a gourmet meal, but I just watched The Mummy again and spent the whole time thinking about this, so here have a completely different take:

"No, Maddie, absolutely not. Do you remember what happened last time? There were boils, Maddie. Boils. On this face? Never again."

Maddie mumbles something that Buck can't quite parse but one word sounds vaguely like a name he's spent seven years trying to forget, and it's only when Chim pops up behind her like the freakiest Jack-in-the-box he's ever seen that things kind of become inevitable. "They took Jee, Buck."

---

It's not that he doesn't love this shit. He does. He loves it despite the fact that it's a hand me down interest from parents he's still struggling to have any sort of relationship with. He loves it despite the literal boils this particular special interest have caused him. He loves it despite the fact that he's pretty sure he met the love of his life on one of Maddie's little expeditions, and then the guy had disappeared into the wind. Not before a mind-blowing celebratory night and the most tender forehead kiss he's ever experienced (and he's including Maddie, here, so that really should say something) with the hazy dawn light filtering into Buck's hotel room.

He'd thought he was getting breakfast in bed. A coffee, at least.

Instead he'd been ghosted.

Which is incredibly ironic, considering.

The point is. The point is coming back home with a bunch of gold and maybe a broken heart hadn't killed his enthusiasm for digging into this stuff, following the research trails until every literal and metaphorical stone was turned. He loves it.

He would absolutely not be here if this were anything but family.

"Oh good, you made it," says a familiar voice from somewhere to his left, and Buck tries to give Maddie the evil eye, but she's too busy grinning at her husband.

Buck twists just enough to get a good look at the cleft before he's stomping his way back towards his suite.

---

Tommy is, of course, flying the fucking plane that's going to get them where they need to go.

Buck will admit he'd done a deep dive into piloting during one of his lamer spirals. He knows all sorts of facts about every helicopter known to man and quite a few of the planes.

"We're going to crash," Buck says, when the engine to his left makes another sputtering noise and then starts blowing smoke behind them.

Tommy frowns. "We're not going to crash," he mutters back, and then tips his chin, calls out loudly over his shoulder. "Maddie, Howie, you two strapped in?"

Buck isn't a fan of the tenor of his voice.

Who is he fucking kidding? He's a huge fan of that voice. He's been hearing it moan his name in his dreams for more than half a decade. Any version of that voice is something Buck wants to latch onto and never let go.

"We're not going to crash," Tommy repeats, and glances over at Buck like he's trying to drink in the sight of him.

---

They manage to salvage a good two-thirds of the water, two of Bucks suitcases ("You don't pack light, do you?" Tommy had asked, getting the bag that was almost entirely books over his shoulder like it weighed next to nothing. "Sorry my baggage is such an inconvenience." hadn't been his wittiest rejoinder of all time but it had made Tommy flush an interesting shade of purple.) and about twelve guns from the wreckage.

"Guns are notoriously not great at stopping ghosts."

Tommy glowers and continues cleaning his gun. In the firelight, his eyes have taken on a shade of blue that Buck absolutely isn't trying to memorize.

"Good thing human men took your niece, then, huh?"

"I wouldn't say that was great, no."

Chim whispers something to Maddie that makes her grin, and Buck scowls at them both.

---

"I'm so goddamn tired of boils, Maddie!"

"It's - you look fine. We just have to send Billy back where he came from and they'll clear right up. Just like last time."

"And if they don't? Your brother's going to die loveless and alone because no one's gonna want to kiss a face full of boils!"

Tommy hums to his left, shuffles, checks his watch, which definitely got broken in the crash. Buck is absolutely not thinking about the full-on make out they'd had in the middle of a graveyard full of fucking murderous ghosts while the boils were still definitely there on his face.

---

Apparently he should have brought a gun to a ghost fight, he thinks, when he glances down and catches sight of the red stain steadily growing on his shirt.

"Evan!"

Maddie's doing her chant thing over by the dias, and Jee's safely tucked in Chim's arms, and -

"Tommy," Buck manages, when Tommy catches him mid-fall and leans him back against the side of a truly hideous mausoleum.

"Hey. Evan, hey. You're - Maddie's just gotta finish up a few more lines and then you'll be good, okay? No more boils. You'll get thousands more kisses from however many people you like, alright?" He sounds a little panicked. Which is fair, considering. Ghost bullets fucking hurt.

"God, you're an idiot," Buck manages between wheezes. Things are - things are looking a little blurry around the edges. Buck lowers himself to a sit and sinks hands into the earth beneath him. "I'm gonna die still in love with the stupidest man who ever lived."

"You're not going to die," Tommy says, and he's eye level now, pressing at the spot where Buck's life is leaking out of him. Blue eyes, cleft chin, that stupid curl that never failed to release itself to settle over his forehead.

"Perfect time to completely miss the point," Buck manages through clenched teeth, and when Tommy's eyes catch his they look - terrified.

He's expecting it, maybe, a little, because he's being a little shit and that had always driven Tommy a little wild. Still. The press of lips against his is nice, and the tongue and teeth are even better, right up until he can't hold in the cough any longer and spits up blood right into Tommy's mouth.

"You're not gonna die," Tommy says, desperate now, as the world starts to tilt on its axis, and Buck curls a hand over Tommy's forearm and smiles.

---

Death isn't great. Kinda boring, actually. He's been here for five minutes or maybe an eternity when things start to go a little wonky. The endless nothing is either shrinking or expanding and Buck can't quite figure out if it's black or white or maybe just nothing and then it's shattering and shaking and gone.

---

"Ow," Buck says, and blinks open his eyes to find blue ones staring back.

They stay like that for a moment.

"So, you're O for two," Buck says, and Tommy immediately starts crying.

---

Tommy shifts a hand over Buck's jawline, calluses catching on a bit of scar tissue the boils left behind this time. Apparently they only clear up completely if you're still alive when the curse is broken.

"So there's a job," Tommy says, grooves on his face deepening, leg shifting restlessly over top of Buck's thigh. It's a trick - he knows it is, but he's still coming down off the high and Tommy's smile could probably make him do anything even if he hadn't just given Buck a Top Ten orgasm.

"No mummies. No ghosts. I swear to god Tommy if it's anything haunted I'm going to get those thousands of kisses somewhere else."

Tommy's grin is a little smug for his liking. "Have you ever heard of a Dybbuk box?"

Against his better judgement, Buck immediately begins spewing every bit of knowledge he's ever retained about them.

[epistolarymoon]

putting nsfw goggles on for a sec but

idk if this is just a trope that was a lot more common in older hockeyrpf fics bc i haven't seen it around as much recently BUT. would like to see a fic about will and mack going out (maybe while in quebec bc no need for fakes lol) and goading each other into picking up girls...

... and there is a girl that's interested in mack at first, but oh, wait, who's that prettyboy friend of yours you were talking to earlier?? and mack's like. utterly dumbfounded and also extremely humiliated bc uh what. [mack voice] am i literally getting turned down for smitty. will is never going to let him live this down. this is terrible.

and the girl tells mack to invite will over and theoretically mack should just cut his losses but for some reason he does. red-faced and kind of cut up about it, he goes across the bar and mumbles something about the girl at will. and will's like ??? what do you mean she wants me. and he's a little smug about it but he can see how mack's ego is all bruised so he's like. all right i can play it chill for now but, u know. a hot girl is a hot girl. and so he follows mack over to the girl, and mack's like. um. here u go. this is smitty. have fun I Guess.

and she's like okay i think you misunderstood baby i want Both Of You. and then it's all like. record scratch. freeze frame. what??????

also bc will is way more dialed, he very clearly realizes that mack's kind of just blue-screened. he knows that mack doesn't have a ton of experience and he doesn't either but he has had a 3some before (ryan leonard haunts the narrative as per). and he turns to the girl and is like "can we have a sec?" and she very graciously gestures for them to go have their little gab sesh.

when they're alone again mack is like "what the fuck dude i'm not having a threesome with you that'd be like. gay" and will is all like. [scoffs] "it's not fucking gay to fuck a girl together lol we won't even touch each others dicks." and mack is all, shrilly, "yeah but it's still fucking weird." and will very smarmily goes "you're just chicken. and also inexperienced. bc it's not even that crazy" which of course makes all higher function in mack's brain go offline now that will's just triggered his insane competitive hindbrain where he has to win at everything, even the stupid shit. and it's all [mack voice] wait you sound like you've done this before.

and will is all false confidence: "yeah duh" except he hasn't touched that memory of him and leno hooking up with a girl with a ten foot pole since it happened. bc then he would have to confront some very uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. and he doesn't want to do that.

now mack's fired up and he's like. "okay fine. i'm down if you're down." and will is all like "okay i'm down."

and they go home with this girl and run a train on her, except. obviously this is a night of realizations. and sometimes it feels like she's not even there, it's just will and mack in the room. at some point while she's otherwise occupied, they make eye contact and mack nearly nuts right then and there. and will can see how far down mack's flush goes. and it's all just. oh noooooo. oh no no no.

[universalzones]

"I think they did right after Eggman was beat and he lost his control over the entire world, though I think it was rushed for the most part. I didn't really have time since I was busy blowing up any standing bases, though if I were to guess he might've ran unopposed if no one really heard about it. It would make sense too. I wouldn't be surprised if not many wanted be President with how much work there was to do to get things back in order." The entire planet was a mess from when Eggman has complete control of the world.

"That is a sound theory, and if he has strong ties to G.U.N then I'm sure they wouldn't have had second thoughts about 'convincing' anyone attempted to run against Thawne not to do so." Blaze would turn her focus on the Chaotix. "Perhaps you time might be better looking into this Thawne. I still hold hope that he didn't have any involvement and is intentions are genuine with his concerns."

"Maybe we could simply ask him some questions? I mean, it can't hurt, and he shouldn't have any reason to lie to us. I know this is me being optimistic, though I just hope I'll see the best in people." Belle wasn't really using reasoning rather than feelings with what she just said, though sometimes being kind and direct got answers. Throwing out the idea doesn't hurt anyone either.

"That's... foolish thinking." Kitsunami seemed to want to say something else, though he bite his tongue and softened his words. The fennec actually liked Belle's company so didn't want to be mean to her. "Though it's not like it'll do any harm. The worse that could happen is he deflects or simply refuses to answer. If you want to ask then ask, though I personally think its a waste of time."

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

"Sounds like you'll miss me being a pain in your ass, which is just weird. Though I guess no one on this team is normal." Surge wasn't good at this, mainly because she simply expected them to shut her out and leave her to face the music solo style. Now they were saying they'll miss her and how she caused problems? Ugh, why does being a good guy have to be so weird.

"...Just take it easy Lanolin. I know you gotta deal with Tangle being Tangle, though you seriously need to relax more. Plans are fine, though if you wanna deal with Eggman you gotta learn to role with the punches and change on a dime. I know it's sucks to be put in a position like that when you gotta lead, though I think it's important." Why was Surge trying to give advice in a situation like this?

"I could dash you where you want to go before heading to the command center. I know a lot of people get stomach sick, though I've got more control now, weirdly enough." Surge actually had a moment to process just how stable her powers were. Made her wonder how tied her emotions were to her powers. Well, not like she'll have time to explore that.

That village, they condemned her the moment they found out who tinker was. It was also ground Zero for the Zombot virus. Of all the people they were hit the hardest. They of course put that blame on poor Belle. Miles couldn't help but feel like it was a sore spot for her, and hoped deep down that she was right. They'd have to contact him, get papers and confirm it all. But he knew it was just as likely even the mayor would turn on her. He'd be there to help her through it regardless--- chaos he hoped she was right.

Miles flipped through his phone as he looked for information on this president. A Name, a birthdate anything he could use to give him a clue about who he was.

" Here we go, President Thawne... first name Luthian... 28 years old, served in GUN from the time he was 18, fought with GUN in the War-- yea right more like cowered in a hole. Not much else here... just lots of photos of him with Abe. Guess they knew each other... still young for a president... did they even do an election i wonder? "

He flipped through the photos and checked his social media but until he could hack in and check things. He could only tell so much.

" Likes his guns, gives to charities, helps out at the local homeless shelter... guy is squeaky clean... like to clean, this feels--- Staged? no angry posts, no joking posts... nothing from before the war... Dunno if this will help us, and its very sus..."

The chameleon didn't seem phased by her decision, and frankly if she knew someone to counter that ability good. But he guessed they'd get involved before it was over. Plus they knew the lay of the land well enough. No point in arguing right now, they'd have time to discuss it later.

" As you wish princess, we'll be here if you need us. "

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

She chuckled at Surge being upset that she wasn't angry, that it might be easier if she was. If anyone was angry it was Sonic, pissed that she wouldn't fight for her freedom. But that wasn't to say Lanolin wasn't feeling emotions. She was, but they were a jumble of sadness and feeling like she failed Surge on some level. She hugged herself and looked down at her feet, just for a moment that stern façade she wore faded away.

" Anger would be easy... i wish i could be angry at you. Yelling would have been so much easier. But i just feel... i'm going to miss you Surge. Even your little outbursts, and raiding the fridge at all hours of the night. Our little arguments about how to handle missions... i'll miss it... "

She said in a softer tone less the commander and more like a friend, even if they had there problems. She saw Surge as more then just a weapon, more then just some soldier.

" But i guess i'm being sappy, and sentimental--- Yes Report to the command center. Get Miles to get your testimony and get it all on tape concerning that day. I have one more stop to make, and then i'll be back at the command center. "

She took a deep breath and let her personal feelings go. She held a hand out to Surge as if to shake her hand.

" It was a pleasure working with you Surge... I hope we one day in the future we can do so again..."

[quilly72]

Alexa I'm not so sure about this I mean let's consider some of the downsides it hasn't been tested for one and don't mention..."

You were cut off as her eyes pierced into you her hand pressed against your chest. "I want you to turn that growth ray on and I want you to make my ass larger right. Now." Her face flickered with a smirk as she turned the growth ray on for you and took a couple steps back. Turning her back to you as she shimmied in place.

Your reasonableness left you as she looked over her shoulder and waited for you to hit her. Your fingers twitching with anticipation as they adjusted the dials the sounds of the machine's humming growing in volume as you started prepping the ray. You aimed it at your target which smiled back as she braced against the bed of your hotel room.

"Quickly I have to give a speech in a couple minutes I need to make sure I look my best"

You breath became quick as you finally got everything to its correct settings. Placing your finger on the trigger as you finally pressed in. The click of the mechanism lit up the room in a radiant green light. Electricity causing your hair to stand on edge as a blinding green light fired off into your lovely girlfriend.

You heard her yelp as the blinding light started to fade. The power to your room cutting out as the lights flickered off. Your vision was no longer being filled with green as you squinted trying to find her in the room. It had obviously hitten her harder than she had planned as you found her laying face down on the bed groaning off the pain.

"Alexa are you okay how do you feel" Your mind raced with questions as she opened her eyes and started to raise off the bed. Her eyes darting from side to side as she sat up. Her hands racing across her body her butt her thighs. "I don't know if it worked I just kinda feel tingly and I don't thinker I'm any big.GER" Her voice raised as her face pulled in surprise and shock. She let out a gasp as you watched her body spring up a couple inches. Her thighs thickening towards the hips as her butt pressed out against her dress and the bed sheets.

Her smile grew as Alexa took in her excitement. "This is awesome it actually worked" Alexa quickly stood up next to you. Her head now rested at the same height as yours. It was weird and somewhat daunting meeting her eye to eye when you usually looked down towards her. Her butt had received most of the love as her dress tightened around her hips even raising the formerly long dress up her calves and towards her knees. Her ass pulling the fabric tight forming little dishes as it stretched out.

"Okay what time is it. we have to go" She said as she gathered her things. "Um... no idea it looks like the ray caused the power to go out." You opened the door to find the hallway off as well and several hotel visitors looking out in the hallway. "It looks like the power was lost in more then just our room. The stairs it is" You nodded as you started to make your way.

You opened the door to the stairway as you both started to make your way down.

It wasnt that far down but still enough to be an inconvenience especially as Alexa had to take each step carefully with the heels she had decided to throw on which you had noticed officially made her taller than you which felt...weird. "How much more do we have to go it starts any minute now" Just two more flights and we are right there don't worry you will be right on time. "Fine...also when does the tingly feeling of the growth ray go away I still feel like my legs are ASLeEP?!"

You turned back to find Alexa shooting up another couple inches. Her face filled with shock as her dress tightened further up her thighs to her knees. Her eyes widened as she watched her legs tremble and struggle to balance out. A gasp leaving her mouth as her feet tightened in her heels. The plastic groaning as her feet settled slightly over the edges. "What the fuck just happened" She muttered as she quickly scanned her body.

Uhm I think I calibrated the machine wrong you must've received too much and there was just a delayed reaction so you grew again.

She shot daggers at you as she took off her heels to which her feet were now crawling over the edges of. Her dress gripped her hips and her shoulders as she struggled to pull it down. She quickly made her way down to the landing. Even without her heels she was still taller by half a head.

She stared at you as you brushed it off. "Hey you were the one who convinced me to do it don't make it my fault and if we don't go you are gonna be late. We will shrink you back down later"

You finally made it the the bottom floor as you walked into the convention. The seating full and busy. Luckily the loss of power had made it that you weren't late but still Alexa was quickly ushered to the front to start off the company's presentations. You found your seat as the power flicked back on. A quick joke made by the host as he welcomed your lively girlfriend on stage to read off the stats and rewards for the higher performing employees for the year.

You couldnt help but notice her beauty as she walked up. You could also tell she was nervous by the way she twitched and shook every once in a while. Her incredibly tight dress and slightly exaggerated curves weren't helping her you were sure.

"Thanks Steven so for our first category we have our highest performing salesman. With over 200,000 stocks sold this last year is... it is... Alexa cleared her throat as she struggled to speak. It is AnTHOnYYy Suarez." Alexa yelped out the name as everyone stared. A couple scattered claps filling the air as a man near the front stood up. However it quickly stopped as everyone watched as Alexa yelp led to a physical change. You gulped as you watched her spring up. Her watch breaking off her wrist as her dress folded up her thighs. Not to mention the fact that everyone now understood her decision to go barefoot on stage since the rest of her outfit was shrinking. Her eyes were wide with embarresment and fear as she looked back at the crowd that was still questioning what they just saw. Her body leveling our a couple inches higher as she tried to calm down with long slow breaths. Accentuating her larger breasts as they piled up against her dress.

Alexa tried to regather it as she swayed back to the podium. "Sorry will Anthony Suarez like to come up. We don't mean to take away any of the

She stopped and cleared her throat ...any of the Her face grimacing as she tried to force the words out ...AttenTION" Her forced words were struck with another spurt as her hands gripped into the podium. Her quick gasps accentuated by her dress ripping against her hips. Her shoulder straps digging in as her dress groaned against her growing body. It didn't help that her chest appeared to be catching up as everyone stared in terror. You stood up in the crowd as you started to make your way up as Alexa let out aNother yelp. They were getting faster and with that one some of the crowd started to get up and leave.

She was easily 7 ft tall her dress barely covering her large wider ass as the skirt part of her dress tore across the width of her body. Her neckline choking her as she started to panic. " don't leave everything will be just. Oh no.fuck FUCK"

She sprung up another foot as her dress tore off of her. Her undergarments going with them as she tried to cover herself in front of the crowd. The crowd finally got the hint as they started to rush out and panic. Screams filling the air as you tried to make your way up. Fighting against the growing panicking crowd as Alexa herself shot up again and again. 8 ft tall then 9 ft tall. The stand underneath her groaning a bit as her body weighed down on one spot. Her coworkers scremaing and fleeing the stage as they rushed away. Her ass was twice as wide as your shoulders by the time you finally got up to her. Which you could easily tell by the fact that her ass was about head height for you now. She stared down at you as she recoiled against another spurt. HeLppP MEeEe.

Her body sprung up as she recoiled up further. Her head hitting the lights causing them to flicker as the fire alarm started to blurt out adding to the chaos. You could hear her body groaning as it stretched larger she must of been 12 ft tall by now. Her ass weighed heavily above you her boobs so large you could barely see her face even with Her head ducking foward trying to fit underneath the roof. her arms bracing against the structural parts of the stage as to not lose her balance. Het knees wobbled and bent out as she tried to get her body to stop and slow down. Her eyes darting in fear as she bent further down trying to fit in the cramped space. Finally spotting you as her face widened with pain "GET THE RAY AND SHRINK ME"

Alexa fell to her knees causing you to almost fall yourself. The room rumbling with a deafening roar. The wood under her cracking against the weight. You took a gulp looking at her massive body indenting the stage in. The wood creaking under her as it bowed towards the ground. Her legs dangling off the edges as they pressed into the seats in the side front rows. "Ill.. I'll meet you up there"

You took off running as another screech was heard from behind you. Your adrenaline pumping hard enough that you barely heard the wood break over the heartbeat in your ears. You found the stairs as you continued to bustle past all the people running in the opposite direction. Sirens being heard in the distance as you took each flight several steps at a time. Each time you gained a flight you could hear Alexa growing closer. Her cries getting louder. As you rounded the 4th story you heard a giant crash and crunch. The hotel shaking as support beams groaned and creaked. You could only guess that despite her best efforts she was coming up to meet you.

You bulldozed your way thru the 5th story door as you beelined for the hotel room. Sliding the keyboard in and finding the growth ray. "Come on turn on you worthless piece of junk" You heard another earth shattering crack thru the hotel as the building shook again. Alexa cries and moans filling the hotel and rumbling it. The sirens from outside growing louder as you heard the indiscernable yells of authorities trying to take control of the situation.

You powered up the ray as you adjusted some setting and wheeled it out to the the hallway.you didn't know exactly where she was so you decided to stand back just in case. Taking steps further back again and again as the hotel started to rumble sway one way then another. Metal bending out and concrete cracking filling the entire building. The sound of a woman yelping and screaming against the pressure growing louder and louder.

Another crack and another shake as you felt a giant thunk roll thru the ground under you. The floor indenting and culing up infront of you as if gravity was pulling it the opposite direction. Her cries only one wall away it seemed. You heard what sounded like her legs stretching into the streets as the sounds of cars screeching and dragging across the ground were heard. You started to power up the ray as it finally happened.

Alexa yelped as her head ripped thru the 5th story floor. Her head and neck filled the entire hallway as the adjacent doors and walls crumpled and fell away. Her chest hitting the ground below you as the floor raised up around her with her shoulders. You fell to your face under the shaking as you heard the sounds of the hotel floor underneath you shattering and collapsing. Making stable ground hard to find. You braced against a wall as you fired off the ray into her fear filled eyes. Her face scrunched against the pressure of the hotel bracing back against her. She yelped in pain as she caught a faceful of the blast. Her body twitching and recoiling against it.

She froze as she stared at you. "Thank you.. thank you so much I didn't know what I was gonna do if I kept grow... oh no fuuuck fuck FUCK. You closed your eyes as you watched her disappear. Her growth doubling again and again as the floor under you started to collapse under the pressure. Her chest bursting into the floor then her abdomen. Her legs sprawled out into the adjacent skyscrapers as you heard building after building crush and fall. You watched as the ceiling above started to collapse. With the power off and the growth ray disabled you took in one finally gaze of your giantess girlfriend. As she expanded into the sky above with her cries of terror shaking the city. The roof above falling down as the building you were finally fell to the streets. Her giantess body finally breaking free and soaring into the sky above spurt after spurt.

[eyneyke]

Trouble in paradise pt3

Pairing: Max Verstappen x PewDiePie!sibling Summary: What if Felix had a genius brother who works as a RedBull's engineer and is also secretly dating Max part 22 of A Calm to my Storm Masterlist

Twitter Thread: "Everyone Talking About the Chaos at Red Bull (Except Max, Who's Chilling)"

1. Journalist Asking Kimi Räikkönen What He Thinks About Red Bull’s Situation

During a free practice that weekend, a journalist asks Kimi Räikkönen for his thoughts on the situation at Red Bull.

Journalist: "Kimi, we’ve heard there’s some last-minute untested changes happening at Red Bull with Max’s car. What’s your take on it?"

Kimi, completely deadpan: "I don’t know, it’s their problem, not mine."

Journalist, trying again: "But as a driver, do you think it’s risky to rely on untested solutions for such a crucial race?"

Kimi shrugs: "Depends on the people working on it. If they trust the engineer, it’ll be fine. If they don’t, then it won’t. I’m not in Red Bull, so I don’t care."

Comments:

User 333: "Kimi out here delivering another iconic ‘I don’t care’ moment 😂"

User 334: "Imagine being that journalist, trying to get anything from Kimi and he’s just like ‘nah.’"

User 335: "Kimi always with the ‘not my problem’ energy. I love it."

User 336: "Low-key though, Kimi’s right. If they trust Sam, it’ll work out."

2. Sebastian Vettel Weighs In on the Situation

Sebastian Vettel is stopped by a journalist in the paddock to give his opinion on the Red Bull drama.

Journalist: "Seb, there’s been a lot of talk about Red Bull’s situation. What do you make of them using untested technologies and letting Max drive with a last-minute fix?"

Seb, smiling: "Well, I’ve met Sam a few times now, and I know he is smart and very good at what he does. If he says it will work, and Newey agrees, it will work. Red Bull is in good hands."

Journalist: "Do you think it’s too risky to run something untested?"

Seb: "Everything in racing is a risk. But if anyone can handle that kind of pressure, it’s Max and Red Bull. They know what they're doing."

Comments:

User 337: "Seb out here defending his old team like he’s still driving for them. We stan Seb still having a good relationship with Red Bull."

User 338: "If Seb says Sam’s got this, then I believe him."

User 339: "The respect Seb still has for Newey, and now Sam by connection, is so wholesome."

User 340: "Seb has no doubts. That’s what trust looks like."

3. Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton Discuss the Situation on Sky Sports

Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton are in the Sky Sports make shift studio in the paddock, discussing Red Bull’s predicament.

Nico: "So, we’ve been hearing all day about Red Bull’s car issues, and it sounds like one of their up-and-coming engineers, Sam Kjellberg, has come up with an untested solution to fix it. Lewis, what do you think of that?"

Lewis: "It’s definitely a bold move. Untested solutions are always risky, and driving a race with one is practically unheard off, but from what we’ve seen, Red Bull, well, actually not Red Bull but their engineer, seems confident, so if Max is okay with driving, then there's not much they can do."

Nico, nodding: "Yeah, I agree. It’s a big risk, but Max seems calm, which puts hope in the rest of us that this are just rumors going around and that it's not that serious. But personally, I'm not sure I'd be that calm in situation like that if I was driving."

Lewis: "Me neither. I’d want to know that my car is ready and safe to drive before the race."

Comments:

User 341: "Nico and Lewis basically saying ‘no thanks’ but also giving Red Bull credit for bravery."

User 342: "Lewis and Nico being in the same room and talking to each other after almost no public contact since 2016 mess and it is all because of Red Bull and their trust in Sam."

User 343: "It’s like they’re scared for Max, which makes me a bit more nervous."

User 344: "Lewis being cautious but respecting the trust Red Bull has in Sam. I love this balance."

4. Journalists Asking Max About the Situation (for the 100th Time)

Max is standing in front of reporters, looking as calm as ever, despite the obvious tension surrounding the car.

Journalist 1: "Max, can you comment on the changes made to your car? Are you concerned about driving it untested?"

Max, shrugging: "I can't tell you about the changes on the car because I don’t really know what’s going on with the car yet. Sam will explain everything to me later."

Journalist 2: "But isn’t it risky going into the race like that? Not knowing stuff about a car you'll be driving?"

Max: "Yeah, maybe. But I trust Sam. He worked the whole night on it and if there's anything that Sam knows the best it's this so I’m sure it’ll be fine. And anyway, Adrian checked over his initial calculations or whatever those guys do, and he said everything was sound, otherwise we wouldn't run with it."

Journalist 3: "Can you tell us more about what happened with the part not arriving from the factory?"

Max: "Someone didn’t do their job, so Sam had to come up with something. I trust him more than the person who didn’t send the part." He smirks slightly, looking unfazed.

Journalist 4: "If something does go wrong, how are you prepared for that?"

Max, laughing: "We actually had a meeting about that: Christian, Marko, GP, Sam, Adrian and I. Sam will be in my ears, GP and Christian agreed that it would be the best for this race for GP to assist Sam telling me what to do. And so, I’ll be fine, Sam will be with in my ears, if anything goes wrong he's going to be there. But nothing will go wrong."

Comments:

User 345: "Max has so much faith in Sam, it’s actually impressive, and also a bit concerning."

User 346: "‘I trust Sam more than the guy who didn’t send the part’ OMG Max is savage."

User 347: "Max’s energy is just ‘I don’t care, Sam’s got it under control.’ We love to see it."

User 348: "Max calmly saying nothing will go wrong because Sam is just that good I-... The trust is insane."

User 349: "Max answering the same question over and over but basically saying ‘Sam knows more than I do.’"

5. Video: Christian Being Asked About Sam's Work

A journalist catches Christian Horner in the paddock and asks him about recent rumors about troubles with Max’s car.

Journalist: "Christian, can you give us an update on Max’s car and the work Sam did overnight?"

Christian, looking exhausted: "Yeah, Sam had to come up with a solution because we didn’t get the part we needed from the factory in time. It’s untested, so of course, everyone’s nervous, but Sam’s one of the best engineers here. He’s brilliant. Adrian wouldn't have anyone less study under him. If anyone can pull this off, it’s him."

Journalist: "So you’re feeling confident?"

Christian: "I have full faith in Sam. That being said, I’m also terrified." He laughs nervously.

Comments:

User 350: "Christian is STRESSED but also praising Sam every chance he gets."

User 351: "Christian low-key panicking but still putting all his trust in Sam. We stan a nervous boss."

User 352: "The way Christian’s like ‘I trust him but I’m scared’ is a whole mood."

User 353: "Christian is like 80% anxious, 20% confident in Sam, and I love it."

6. Clip: Mechanics Huddling Around Max’s Car

In this clip, the Red Bull mechanics are shown huddling around Max’s car, listening intently as Sam explains something. You can see some of the mechanics nodding as Sam points out specific parts on the car.

Mechanic #1: "So, if this adjustment works, we won’t need to worry about overheating?"

Sam: "Exactly. It redirects airflow more efficiently. I did multiple calculations multiple times during the night and Adrian checked each of them this morning. We tested it on the simulations. It's no fixing the problem but it’s a slight modification but will be enough to compensate."

Mechanic #2, sighing with relief: "Okay, thanks, Sam. You’re a lifesaver."

Comments:

User 354: "The mechanics’ faces go from pure stress to calm in under a minute. Sam works miracles."

User 355: "Sam is literally explaining everything like a teacher while the mechanics take notes 😂"

User 356: "The way Sam explains things so clearly and makes sure to do everything in his power for the team, no wonder they trust him so much."

User 357: "I love that you can clearly see that Sam is dead on his feet, hasn't slept at all and worked all night but is still professional AND caring when talking to people on his team. I know I wouldn't be if somebody screwed up and I had to make it right."

These moments capture the sheer chaos around Red Bull’s garage before the race, with everyone from drivers to commentators weighing in on the situation. Despite the high stakes, Max’s calm trust in Sam Kjellberg and Sam’s unflappable demeanor as he reassures the team have fans and the paddock buzzing with nervers for this race.

[brionysea]

if stranger things 5 comes out and they're like 'omg! the upside down has been a product of someone's dark and twisted mind this whole time! it's... WILL!' I'll immediately lose interest

[crucnch-no-more-braincell]

Can "proship" be considered a bad coping mechanism?

Considering you put proship in quotes I think you probably know what it really means. I assume you mean darker/taboo stories and such, in which case yes if it's distressing to the person engaging and they continue to do so

Does the media that one enjoys reflects their morals and beliefs?

Nope. People engage with content a lot that doesn't reflect their beliefs.

Also, I'm not sure if that's okay to sexualise and fetishize underage people, even if it's fictional...Isn't it possible to see ped0phile inclinations in a person through the media they consume and produce?

Honestly, you don't have to think it's okay. What matters is curating your own online experience and trying to treat people with respect when you fo interact with them.

Honestly I don't think you can really see those incentives unless you know the person and they express their thoughts to you. There's always a lot more going on in someone's head than they may say. Thought that may just be because I don't like assuming people have a disorder.

Also, is it okay to monetise drawn child p0rn? Because this content is created specifically with the idea to get turned on by drawn kids, which sounds not so far from getting off on real ones (with the difference that in the first case, it's fictional, so no real kid is technically hurt; however, the attraction is still caused by knowing the drawn person is underage, so the mechanism remains the same).

100% am not an expert but, like I said, you don't have to be okay with the content or it being monetized. Idrk know the specifics about pedophilia but as far as I'm aware it's not really ever considered pedophilia by professionals when it's just fictional characters? Could be wrong. But again there's a lot going on in our heads that we don't say out loud; I've occasionally indulged in underage content. That is fine, I am fine with that -- but the moment it turns into anything about real people, it's an intrusive thought for me. It's incredibly disturbing to think of real kids in that situation.

Idk this is just my perspective, I hope it's okay

(It's about proship, so I've put it in "read more" in case someone finds the topic uncomfortable. Take care)

Without negativity, I have a few controversial questions which I'd like to see from some different angles. It's curiosity, but not an accusation by any means — I just question my moral beliefs, so I don't want to cause arguments but a discussion. And you aren't obligated to answer all the questions and aren't obliged to answer at all, of course.

With all due respect, what I'd like to ask is:

Can "proship" be considered a bad coping mechanism? Does the media that one enjoys reflects their morals and beliefs? Also, I'm not sure if that's okay to sexualise and fetishize underage people, even if it's fictional. I understand that it's often a way to cope with trauma, I don't mean to invalidate it in any way and I'm not a doctor, though I can't decide whether it's a healthy way to process it. I once heard an argument that it works in a similar way with gambling and p0rn addiction, as in indulging in fantasies and letting urges control one's behaviour, but I'm not sure if it's really so. Isn't it possible to see ped0phile inclinations in a person through the media they consume and produce? Also, is it okay to monetise drawn child p0rn? Because this content is created specifically with the idea to get turned on by drawn kids, which sounds not so far from getting off on real ones (with the difference that in the first case, it's fictional, so no real kid is technically hurt; however, the attraction is still caused by knowing the drawn person is underage, so the mechanism remains the same).

So all in all, I think there are concerning people on both the proship and antis sides. Which doesn't mean that every person in both communities is inherently bad or good, but I think it's important to acknowledge that there can and will be people who do questionable things from both sides. I also would like to clarify that I'm against threats and bullying over fiction, respect should be always prioritised.

Thank you for your patience, I apologize if I made you uncomfortable or understood something wrong.

[coquelicoq]

i ate a cupcake recently without first spending five minutes talking about how logistically stressful it is to eat a cupcake, so. i am capable of growth

[aromanticannibal]

it's honestly so hard to explain that you care for someone you like without using the words love

[ifindus]

✨"Meet the Artist" ✨

Name: Findus Age: 26 (29.03) Zodiac: Aries Nationality: Norwegian Orientation: Bi/Asexual Gender: Non-Binary (they/them) Education: Masters degree in Archaeology

[knockyasocksoff2022]

Ideal No. 15

(7,119 words)

(A/N: Is this the longest chapter yet? LMAO, eat up! I had it mostly done before now, so IDK why it took me so long, if I didn't procrastinate, the total writing time was like three days, maybe. Plot bunnies are bitches, I guess. The moral of the story is: yell at me more in the comments! Only one or two more chapters to go!) 

Thanks once again to @fyodorsushankaaa for all the encouragement!

He looks like a scared puppy, readying to bolt. I have to act fast. 

It's impulsive, I know, but I'm not sure what else I can do, so I grab his bloodied hand. He flinches, hard, but I don't let go. I can't, too scared he'll slip away again.

"Dazai, you're hurt." Well, that much is obvious. I mentally scold myself. "What happened?"

He probably won't tell me if it's self-inflicted or not, but I need to know what sort of injury it is at least. The blood is spreading in a pattern that suggests a wound less controlled than razor lines. And Dazai doesn't cut himself, as far as I know. He kills himself with neglect.

He opens his mouth, then closes it, then again, then once more. Then he jolts up, trying to twist away. He makes a sound of pain so startling that surprise makes me let go when it should be my instinct to grip him tighter.

Without the support of my arms, he tumbles out of the booth. I rush to help him.

"I'm okay. I'm just a bit out of it because of the weather change, is all." His voice is raspy. He isn't even trying to fool me anymore. I won't complain. His admitting that something at all is wrong is a start.

I'll just do what I always do. Go along with it.

"If you were under the weather you should have let someone know."

"'M fine."

Suppressing a sigh, I try a different tactic. "It only causes everyone more trouble if you wait until you can't stand."

His wince makes me regret the words, but I have to say something to make him see sense.

"I-I'm sorry."

What does he have to be sorry for? I don't have time for that at the moment. He needs medical attention, but knowing him he won't let me bring him anywhere near a hospital. "I hardly care about that now. Come on, I'm going to take you back to the office. Yosano-sensei will treat you."

"No!"

He's hyperventilating, the first sign of a panic attack. Okay. I have to calm him down. What would calm him down?

Jokes!

"Dazai, your bandages are yellow. I will not allow you to let your writing hand rot off simply because you don't want to do paperwork. How am I to get you to do work, then?"

It doesn't work. Or, well, it does, but not the way I intended. He stops hyperventilating but then lapses into silence. "Sorry." He wilts.

We both sit awkwardly on the floor for a moment considering the situation. He has been eating more, lunch at least, but I can tell I'll still be able to lift him, easily. It scares me a bit, but I'm grateful for it now. It is easier to focus on his alarmingly skinny stature than the fact that he is, practically, in my lap.

His quiet voice comes from beside me, "T-the food . . ."

I don't want to ask him to speak up, but he's so quiet and his words are so slurred that I really am having trouble hearing him.

"I'm sorry?"

"The food, we shouldn't waste."

I want to shake him. That's what you care about? But I'm afraid he'll break.

"Of course, let me, uh, just."

He tries to leap away, I think, from my lap, but he just ends up rolling to the side a bit, his hand twisting further.

I hurry to the counter, give our order number, and inform her of the mess we made.

"Yes, it's almost done. Don't worry about the tea. It happens a lot. We'll be happy to pack your food in takeaway boxes for you, sir. But, may I ask why you're leaving so soon? Your order was marked as dine-in, was that incorrect? Was your experience not okay?"

The woman is so sweet, but what do I tell her? No, you're restaurant is lovely my colleague is just a bit suicidal. "Oh, it was fine, ma'am. . . . My partner is just feeling a bit under the weather."

She coos, glancing worriedly behind me, probably at Dazai, who must still be lying on the floor. "Oh my, I see. The noodles should help then. I hope he feels better soon. You two boys take care."

"Thank you, ma'am."

-

Dazai is indeed still on the floor. I look at him for a moment. There's no way he'll be able to stand long enough to get to the car. Given his state, what would be the most efficient and most dignified way (for both of us) to pick him up? 

After looking at his tender hand hanging limply, I go with the cradle carry.

(A/N: The cradle carry is more commonly known as the Bridal or Princess carry, lmao)

"I'm going to pick you up, is that alright?"

He blinks, taking a moment to comprehend the words. He must be more ill than I thought. But, to my relief, he nods.

He's warm in my arms. Not like the warmth of a lover, but feverish warmth. 

"Keep these steady, Dazai," I say just to break the silence.

He nods, not objecting to my using him as a shelf for the noodles. In fact, he crunches them as if they're far more important than tea-house takeaway.

The walk to the car feels long and short at the same time. Dazai isn't heavy, not at all, but I'm so worried I'll drop him.

As I lay him across the backseat, he grabs my arm. "No . . . Yosano."

"Dazai, you need a doctor."

He doesn't seem to get it.

"Please."

It's his eyes that get me. They're wide and round with innocence and fear, like a child's, like a stray cat's. He reminds me so much of Yozo that I can't possibly ignore his request. It would feel like abuse. 

"Okay. I'll take you to my house, but you're getting first aid either way. I'm not going to watch whatever injury you have fester. Understand?"

-

The drive takes a bit longer because I'm so careful not to go too fast or hit the brakes too hard. I even avoid steep downhills, given that he wears no safety belt.

He sits up as soon as I park, indicating that he was not asleep as I'd hoped. I shouldn't let my disappointment show. I don't need him apologising for I don't know what, again. So while I fix my face, I carry the noodles in. 

Of course, Yozoz makes her escape as I open the door. It made me a bit sad to see her go, but then I knew she'd have to leave eventually, and with the noodles in my hands I was in no position to stop her.

-

They fit nicely in my mostly empty fridge. I haven't had much time to shop due to my extended hours. This is not ideal at all.

I'm also lacking in bandages. I have plenty for Dazai's wound, but I have no doubt that the ones he wears like a bodysuit need changing and I don't have enough. I never thought he'd be here, at my residence. Oh . . . what am I doing? I'll need to order groceries.

Mourning Yozo's absence, but with new determination, I step outside.

To my surprise, the cat hasn't gone far. She paws at my car door, jumping up to the window. The relief I feel is more than should be warranted, considering she's a feral cat, but I feel it anyway.

"Move, Yozo. I need to open the door."

I don't expect her to, but she obeys. Trotting curiously to the left.

Dazai is even more out of it than before. He's like a child when they somehow make themselves heavier, only it's hardly his fault. Yozo watches me curiously as I carefully handle my colleague. She trails my steps, fascinated by the newcomer.

Once inside, I lay dazai on the counter and wash my hands at the sink. I have to swat soapy water at Yozo to prevent her from licking Dazai's wounded hand. She yowls in response. It's interesting how she acts with him as if he's a fellow cat in danger, not a human. Or maybe she thinks she's human too.

I want to start with the first aid right away, better while he's out of it, but his bandages are the one part of his body he keeps off-limits and I would never cross such a personal boundary.

I'll have to wake him, but I can wait a bit longer.

This is where preparedness comes in handy. I have an ear thermometer I bought but have never used. I take it out now, rubbing it with an alcohol swab and sticking it in Dazai's ear. He twitches but makes no move to stop me.

The device beeps, flashing a yellow 39 C. Not Ideal, but not life-threatening. 

Hmm, another dilemma. Medication will help his fever and pain, but he hasn't eaten yet. There's no way anything is making it to his stomach right now, so medication will have to wait.

"Dazai, wake up."

" . . . 'nikida?"

"Yes. How do you feel."

He just shakes his head.

"You're running a mid-grade fever, so that's probably why you feel so poorly. Now, I need to take your bandages off to get to your hand-" He shakes his head before I finish, I can feel him trembling. I'm not sure how much of it is chills and how much is fear at the prospect of revealing what's underneath that he keeps so carefully hidden. "Please, Dazai, your wound is infected. It needs treatment. I won't go above the elbow, I promise. I swear on my Ideals."

He stops trembling, stilling completely, as stiff as a board.

"It's okay?"

An almost imperceptible nod.

There's disposable plastic on the counter, my sleeves are rolled, my hands are washed and protected by latex gloves, and I have everything I could possibly need save for surgical tools, and yet, I don't feel ready. But when am I ready for Dazai Osamu? Since when does it matter if I am or not? I just have to do it.

The bandages are wrapped so tight his hand must be purple underneath. I take the miniature scissors from the kit and begin cutting. The bandages come loose, but I have to peel them away from each other. 

"Fuck me." I try not to swear, but the deeper I go, the tighter they're stuck with blood, plasma, and other bodily fluids that result from the inner layers of skin being exposed to the outside world. The bottom most bandages are closer to brown than white.

"M' trying."

"What?" What did he just say? He didn't mean- surely not . . .

"Said m' trying to fuck you, kun-i-ki-da~" His voice is strained with pain and slurred with fever.

Wh- Oh. He's delirious. Of course. As much as the returns of his clownery relive me, this is NOT what I had in mind.

"I'd do it so well, Kuni-kun."

Suddenly I feel as if I'm the one with the fever, the what creeping into my face, hands sweaty.

"Please, go to sleep, Dazai. You're not well."

"That's what the lady at the cafe said too."

"I'm sure."

I focus all my energy on tuning him out. Thankfully there's no smell, which means the infection isn't too bad. I sigh.

On the last layer, I hesitate. The bandages are still opaque enough that I can't see the skin underneath.

Dazai's other hand raises up in a sloppy thumbs up, then falls back down. He's exhausted, but I'm glad for his approval, and that he seems to be back to his silly persona.

I took a formal first aid course in High School, so the rest of the process will be easy, the most tedious part is cleaning until the water runs clear instead of red.

The skin is blistered, if he does have any self-harm scars, I can't see them. I'm not sure if that's a good thing. Some of the blisters have burst but the skin is still pink, not charred or brown. This looks to be a superficial 2nd-degree burn. Thankfully these can be treated at home.

Because this isn't exactly a fresh wound it isn't bleeding and I don't need to cool the burn, since it's at least a day old, which is good because it means I can treat it with less delay.

Given that the wound was covered, I suspect that the infection came mainly from not cooling the wound properly or allowing it to breathe, and the lack of antibiotic ointment, and choking his circulation did no favours. Scolding him would do nothing.

Once the wound is clean, I apply antibiotic cream and begin dressing it. Dazai doesn't flinch, he must be out. 

I lean down, examining my work. I almost wish I hadn't done it. A cool bath would've helped his fever and the sweating, but now I don't want to wet the dressing, and he'd never allow anyone to see what's underneath his bandages. (Even if I thought I could handle him naked. As unprofessional as that sounds, I know my limitations.) With all the weeping, perhaps I should change it anyway. I have doubt that he'll do it himself even if he's capable.

I bin my gloves and the plastic sheet and wash my hands perhaps a little harder than necessary. 

His fever isn't sustainable either, but I'll let him sleep for now, just to recover from the shock of it all.

Still, he can't sleep on my counter. I lift him as carefully as possible, he doesn't stir. I tell myself not to worry as I set him down on the sofa.

Yozoz climbs my leg, jumping onto Dazai's limp form.

"Off!" I whisper, but she doesn't move.

I have a spare bedroom, but I'm not putting him there until he's had a bath and some fresh clothes. I'll do that as soon as I can.

-

His face isn't relaxed as he sleeps, he frowns, his nose and eyebrows scrunched, still, I can't deny that he's handsome. And cute with Yozoz lying protectively on his chest, letting him use her to elevate his hand.

He twitches and shifts uncomfortably. He'll need pain medication soon, which means he'll need to eat. 

Instead of staring at him, I need to order groceries . . . And I need to call in.

How do I even explain this? Better yet, how do I explain this without betraying Dazai's trust and alerting Yosano-sensei to the fact that he's injured?

I mean, do I even need to? He cuts work all the time . . . or he used to. Yeah, I'd better call.

I swear for the second time today and dial the president directly.

"Fukuzawa-sensei, this is Kunikida."

"Yes, Kunikida, what do you need?"

"Nothing. I was just calling to inform you that Dazai and I are on a private case and we won't be back for a couple of days. You can cut the time from my pay if you like. But I just wanted you to know that nothing is wrong, no one needs to come looking for us."

"Ah, I see. Did you pick up this case during lunch? Will you be reachable in the case of an emergency?"

I look at Dazai. I can't leave him, not like this. "Yes . . . and no."

"Are you out of the city?"

"No."

"Alright. Seeing as your paperwork is complete. I will bother you no longer. But please do call again if you two plan to be on the case for more than a week."

"Of course, sir."

He hangs up. I rest in relief for a moment. Now that that's cleared up there's the matter of my almost empty refrigerator.

-

Dazai wakes at the sound of the groceries being delivered.

"Huh? Kunikida?"

"I ordered groceries." 

I don't think he understands me very well, but I'll only be going to the door, so I don't worry.

Yozoz hisses at the delivery man. I nudge her back, and she gives one final look of utter disapproval before retreating. I tip the man and take the bags inside.

When I come back Dazai has gotten into a halfway upright position, using his uninjured hand to pet Yozo.

"Be careful." The warning is a habit at this point.

"When did Kunikida-kun get a cat?"

I don't let his use of the third person worry me, it wasn't uncommon for him a few months ago."Recently. She was a stray."

"My, how charitable!"

I have to remind myself not to be relieved. He's only acting this way because of the fever.

"Helping the less fortunate when I can is in my Ideals. And right now, that includes you, Dazai."

He gasps theatrically, "Me?"

"Yes, you. You have a fever. You need to take medication. It'll help with the pain as well, but you need to eat first. Now come on."

"My, who knew the prime minister of meeting procedure land would make such a good doctor, and handsome too~"

I can't deal with this right now, him saying all these things. They say fevers make you honest, but he's clearly spouting, pardon me, utter bullshit. "Yes, first aid training is quite useful."

He frowns at my lack of reaction.

I set the groceries on the counter, and go to help him. 

"Ahh, I'm so weak Kunikida-kun! I couldn't possibly move! Carry me!"

Ugh. Now that he's more alert, carrying him feels less like a medical necessity and more awkward, without the adrenaline from seeing him so hurt, but I'd take this over him sobbing on the floor any day.

I must admit I've had daydreams about having him in my arms before, but never like this.

He won't be able to handle chopsticks, so it'll have to be broth. I can make a simple one in under thirty minutes. As soon as I finish stocking the refrigerator and cupboards, I turn to find Dazai sitting at the counter. His newly dressed hand is splayed out on the countertop. He lifts it, flexing his finger. He makes no sound, but I've known him long enough to see that he's in pain.

He abhors pain. It doesn't make sense. This must not have been part of a suicide attempt. He'd never do something as painful as burning or boiling alive, so how did it happen?

I don't look at him, not wanting to invade at the moment. Instead, I focus on readying the ingredients for the broth, falling into the rhythm of chopping vegetables.

"How are you feeling? Does it hurt?" I ask, still not looking. If it were anyone else I wouldn't count on a coherent answer, and I don't with Dazai, not really. He would never admit the extent of his pain, but I know he's aware, at least. This man is a cockroach. He's come to work with temperatures like this and higher before and none of us noticed until he passed out dramatically on the sofa.

"It's fine."

"It is" not "I am". A clear lie.

He's as stubborn as an ox, more stubborn than I myself can be at times. I have no choice but to go along. I place the vegetables in the pan with the stock and set the temperature. "Good. You have to eat before you take medication. The broth should be done soon."

He goes silent for a moment, then, "Mmm, Kunikida is so kind, getting all worked up over nothing." His words are soft, a gentle smile, almost . . . reassuring. His voice sends a wave of warmth down my spine.

Still, the sudden return of his demureness is a bit surprising.

"This is not nothing."

"Well you could have simply taken me to hospital, it wasn't necessary to bring me all the way to your home. I'm sure I've caused quite a hassle. I'm not sure how I can repay you for all of this."

"You mentioned before that you dislike hospitals, so I thought-"

"It hardly matters. There was no need for you to trouble yourself, I feel guilty now."

"Don't, you're my partner, it was no trouble at all." The words feel forbidden. It's immature, but my feelings make calling him my partner feel more meaningful than it should. He's so observant, can he see my guilt? Hear my heartbeat?

"That's impossible. I wish I hadn't troubled you at all." He looks down as he says it, picking the his new bandages. He sounds genuine, bitter and upset. Like many of today's events, it doesn't make sense. After all he's done to pester me so far, how can he feel so guilty for this? Or is it something else? Is this for all he's done in the past? That would be ridiculous, but somehow I believe it. Nothing he ever did was that horrible, it's all forgiven now. 

"Dazai . . ." I don't know what I should say, what I could say. He doesn't look up anyway.

"I won't trouble you anymore, Kunikida-san." It sounds so . . . final.

"Dazai, it wasn't-"

He's standing before I can stop him. I want to reach out to him, to stop him, but I know I shouldn't touch him much more, I doubt his aversion to contact has changed. Even with all his external polish and warmth, all those smiles, something frozen still resides within him, I know it. At times, I can feel its cold, like a gust of shivering wind, sudden, shocking . . . then gone.

And yet I find myself moving ever closer. Something deep in my gut knows I can't let him leave. I feel that if I do I may never see him again.

He sways, and sways and sways, and then . . . tips.

This time, though, I'm here to catch him. Again, he's too warm in my arms.

"Dazai, stop! You're in no condition to go anywhere. Please, sit, . . . stay. At least until you take medication. Then you can go as you please. But as your partner, it would be an abdication of my duties to allow anything to happen to you." There's that word again. Partner.

He whispers so softly, that I swear I mishear him, but it's quiet enough that I'm sure I don't. "Partner." Then he looks up. "Abdication, such a big word." The words are thoughtful, yet careless. He looks dazed. "Of course, you're just doing your job. Fine, but at least let me pay you."

Is he out of his damn mind? "P-pay me, what, you-?!" No. I can't lose my cool now. This isn't an office shenanigan. But then again . . . perhaps my scolding will be as grounding to him as his clownery is to me (am I the delirious one?)

"This is a favour, you will do no such thing. Now, stop talking nonsense!" I can't make myself call him an idiot, he still looks too fragile for that.

It seems to work, to my relief, he backs down. "Sorry." I don't like the bashful tone, but if it means he'll let me care for him without fighting, I'll take what I can get.

We sit, once again, in silence.

I'm relieved when the broth is done, busying myself with readying the bowl and placing it in front of him.

When I set it down, he looks at me for a long moment, then says a quiet "Thank you." and takes the spoon. 

His hand shakes a little. 

Right. I was so distracted by his attitude that I forgot a spoon might still be hard for him. What to do? For once, I don't know, there is nothing in my Ideals that tells me how to deal with an injured, delirious, Dazai Osamu in my kitchen.

"W-would you like some help?"

He looks up with wide eyes. Neither of us says anything. 

A moment passes, and I can't bear to wait, so I take the spoon from his shaky hand. 

He opens his mouth wordlessly and closes it the same.

We repeat the process, still silent, working like a machine, efficient. Both of us, I'm sure, are trying to distance ourselves from the reality of what we are doing. Before I know it the bowl is down to the dregs of vegetables.

Dazai nods once. "Your soup is very delicious, Kunikida-san."

"Thank you." The phrase is brief, almost curt, but I don't know how else to respond. My brain won't form words appropriate for this situation. I turn away, typing the last drops of broth into the plastic bowl the vet sent home for Yozo.

She laps eagerly, while I prepare the correct dosage of medication.

Dazai takes it without a hint of disgust, handing the cup back to me, then pushes himself up. It's too fast and he wobbles. I reach out but then retract my hands. He's not my charge, he's a grown man. He's fine. And he dislikes being touched.

I can't stand to see him go. Who knew I could be so selfish?

"Dazai, wait."

He halts but doesn't turn. His shoulders are tense. I shouldn't keep him longer.

"Just wait a bit. I will call you a taxi cab once the medication takes effect. Just for an hour, rest . . . please."

He turns so slowly I'm worried he's dizzy again, but he seems perfectly steady when he faces me. Then again, he seemed fine until he collapsed in the tea house.

"Alright. Where would you like me to sit?"

Anywhere.

"Wherever you feel most comfortable."

He nods, clearly uncomfortable again. Guilt makes my chest ache, I should let him go. He's made it this far. I'm sure he can handle himself.

"The sofa will be more than fine."

"Okay," I have to leave, I should. I have no business hovering like we're anything more than colleagues. "I'll be in the kitchen, cleaning, if you need anything at all."

"Don't worry. I won't."

-

I can't make myself stay away. 

So here I sit, mere inches away from Dazai. He fell asleep almost as soon as he sat down, despite his insurance on feeling fine.

His breathing is even, but I can see him shivering against the fever. I leave him for a moment, just to get him a blanket.

When I put it over him he still for a moment, then rolls over, still fully asleep and pulls it tight around himself. The trembling stops, and I breathe a sigh of relief. He'll be alright.

But I won't.

Watching him like this feels wrong, a guilty pleasure. This was never meant for me to see. I feel like a pervert, even though watching him like this brings no sexual pleasure, only a warmth in my chest.

I can only stare as his chest rises and falls. His hair fans out over my pillows making them look like they don't belong here, no, not that. They, and he look like they belong, but under his head, they look like something novel even when I've had them for years.

-

After many hours of fitful tossing and turning, he really stirs. And I've done nothing but watch him this whole time. How much working time have I lost? And why does it not seem to matter at all?

I don't think he meant to sleep so long. It's dark out now, and he'll surely need more medication if he even wishes to attempt a full night's sleep.

I jump up when he twitches, hurrying away, lest he think my intentions are anything other than platonic.

"Kunikida?" He calls out.

"Yes, Dazai," I answer, strolling in like I didn't just bolt from the room. How many times have I lied in the past day?

"Thank you very much for letting me stay, and for the food, both here and at the tea house. You can keep my noodles. I'll catch a cab now." 

He's up, standing on shaky legs before I can stop him.

"What?" The words fall out, clumsy and desperate. I hope he doesn't hear it.

He looks at me, appropriately confused. "Did I leave something, Kunikida-kun?"

My saving grace. The one thing I actually did besides watching him sleep."Your coat, it's in the dryer. There was some blood on the cuff, so I washed it." The perfectly reasonable explanation feels awkward.

"Oh, thank you again." He sounds so grateful it makes me uncomfortable.

"Please, don't thank me. You aren't troubling me. Your coat should be done in just a few minutes." I want him to stay longer, "Would you mind if I checked your bandages until then, I heard you tossing in your sleep." A small lie.

"I'm yours."

We both freeze. 

"I-I'm sorry?" I sound like I'm choking.

His cheeks reddened, embarrassed that I made something out of that, no doubt. Especially when I've probably said similar things in reference to our partnership.

"I simply meant that you are the expert and are free to do what you want, er, need to."

"Ah, yes." 

What do I do now?

Neither of us moves for a moment, like when you get stuck trying to pass someone in a door or corridor and do an awkward little dance. I don't want him to pass me. I don't want him to go.

Then he moves, walking to the counter, and placing his arm on it. I follow him, busying myself with readying the plastic sheeting.

He's in the same position when I come back, but lifts his arm and allows me to put the small section of sheeting under it.

I examine the bandages. I was right. As much as this is to keep him here, they do need changing. The wound is still weeping a lot. 

"I'll need to clean and change it again," I tell him, but I think he may have guessed based on the way he eyes his arm.

The experience is completely different now that he's coherent. But he doesn't fight me on the removal of the bandages, I watch his face, his beautiful face, and on cue, he gives his silent permission.

He doesn't flinch as I unwrap it, eyes scanning the wound analytically. 

He leans in, so close that I would barely have to lean down to kiss him. I'd never, of course, I could never. But the thought is very much there.

"I have seen far worse, usually I was the cause." He explains.

Right, the mafia. 

Here, in this house, I could forget. But, I realise suddenly, that it doesn't matter at all, not when it comes to him.

The process goes so much more quickly this time. I hate that I wish it didn't, but before I know it, my hands are on autopilot, and he's in fresh bandages . . . and ready to go.

Where's he going to go? Surely not the agency dormitories? He doesn't want anyone to know he's injured. Or will he just hole up inside? Or does he have somewhere else? A street corner? I shiver at the thought.

He needs another dosage of medications since it's been so long. He must be in pain, but if he's driving, he should wait to take it until he gets back. I still don't trust him with a whole bottle. But I can send him with enough to get him through the night until tomorrow morning when I see him again. I'd best pick him up and take him here in the morning. Someone might see me and know I lied if I stay too long, and his dormitory isn't exactly sterile. (Maybe he's cleaned it? I've only seen it in glimpses.)

"You should take another dose of medication in about an hour. I'll send you home with a pill, you can pick up another one tomorrow when I change your bandages. It helps with the pain as well. Actually, I should take your temperature before you go. If you're still feverish, I'll drive you."

He nods, then cocks his head. "Come here? I appreciate it, but won't we be at the agency?"

Right, he doesn't know.

I told the President that we'd be out for a couple of days, just because I'd be in charge of caring for the wound since Dazai refused to go to a hospital or Yosano, but maybe that's changed now that he's not feverish.

"I was under the impression that you wanted the injury hidden. You told me you didn't want to go to the hospital or to Yosano, so I told the President that we were out on a case. He won't expect us back." It feels shameful and stupid as I say it now, but I press on. He needs to know. "I was actually wondering where you were going. You can't exactly go to the dorms, and I'd prefer to change your bandages here where I have my supplies . . . Or, of course, I could tell him we finish early if you would rather!"

He's just standing there, frozen. I can't read him.

After a while he says quietly, "You lied to the president?" The words are shocking. Of course, they are, I'm the last person one would expect to do that, I know.

"You seemed highly uncomfortable at the thought of anyone knowing so I . . . I just did."

He looks down. Even without a fever, I can see he still feels that way. "No, no, I won't make you lie further. I'll find a place to stay. An old mafia safe house should do just fine."

"Oh, Dazai, I didn't mean to-"

"You've done so much. I am fine now. I don't need luxury, just a quiet place to sleep." He looks pale.

He's not fine. 

And I'm still not ready for him to leave, not ready to be alone with my thoughts.

He sits like a dutiful patient while I fetch his freshly dry coat. I'm not so deceitful as to wet it again.

He takes it, standing up once again. 

"Let's do this again sometime, eh, Kunikida-kun?" The statement carries just a trace of his previous humour. His eyes are far away, the deep brown irises glassy.

Just as he reaches the door, I remember. I didn't take his temperature! Or give him the pills! I grab his wrist. He whirls around, startled, looking again like a caught animal. I wish he wouldn't, but I have to admit, what I'm doing is quite creepy.

"Wait. I need to make sure your temperature is down before you go. I don't want someone kidnapping you, eh?" The joke, like most of mine, falls flat.

Something sparks in his eyes . . . and then they go cold. 

"Kunikida-san, I understand that you're just doing your job . . . but last I checked it's not your job to stop me from killing myself. Don't pretend to care so much, I am not your poor little charity case!"

Killing- who said anything about suicide? Is he planning to- Now? After he's done all this? Well, now there's no way I can let him go!

It looks like he's also realised his mistake. His eyes are stuck between wide open and narrowed to slits, it's odd. I take advantage of it. 

"Dazai, please. I just wish to help."

He says nothing, to my relief, no sour words about my ideals, or my having a saviour complex. (I don't. I'm just ever so foolishly in love.)

I'm afraid that if I step away to get the thermometer, he'll run, so instead, I step forward, placing my hand under his fringe. The contact sends a spark through me, and it occurs to me that I've never really touched him before, a brush of the hand, maybe, and of course carrying him, but never this. He's still warm. Of course, he is. In my haste, I overlooked something important. 

I learnt very quickly of Dazai Osamu's inhuman metabolism. It's how he processes all the junk food and alcohol so quickly. The medication must have worn off at least an hour ago. Has he been in pain all this time?

Oh, damn me!

"Dazai, I'm so sorry." 

He doesn't look like he's heard me. He sways again . . . and then he's in my arms.

He weighs almost nothing against me, but I can't worry about that now.

"You know, Kunikida-kun?" he mumbles into my chest, "I think I'm still a bit tired from the medication. Maybe I will stay."

"Why did you not tell me?" But the question is more for myself. I know why.

I'm a task-oriented person. I need goals or I'll fall apart, I know this. So I make a list.

Check his temperature. 

Make him eat something (somehow). 

Give medication.

Attempt a cool bath.

Fresh clothes.

Sleep.

He's completely out. I can feel his breathing, slow and shallow.

Taking his temperature is easy, getting him medicated won't be. I ought to try a cool bath first before he can protest. It will help the most before the medication kicks in. I hate to cross his boundaries like that . . . then again, he seemed to give me permission when he agreed to stay.

Fortunately, I don't have to decide. He wakes when I move him, his breathing shifting into quick gasps. I want to tell him he's okay, but what use would that have?

"I'm going to give you a cool bath. You can keep your undershirt and pants on, but I need to get your temperature down, alright?"

He nods.

Thankfully, this bathroom was designed with two people in mind, so there's plenty of room for him on the counter. He mutters something that includes my name and the words "undress me". I think he's trying to be cheeky, but it falls flatter than any of my jokes ever have.

Getting into the bathtub is easy. He weighs much less than he should. I prop him up, but with the way he flops to the side, like a fish, I can't possibly leave him. He'll drown. 

What to do, what to do? I can stay with him a bit, but I need to make more broth so he can take more pills. I'll think about it.

"Hey, you're just going to soak in here for a bit, so your body can cool down. May I wash your hair?" He's sweaty, so I may as well.

He nods, so I do.

The process is like nothing I've ever done. He "hmms" softly and I can feel him slipping into sleep under my touch. I thought that seeing him undressed (or in this case in just his pants) would be hard for me, but it isn't. All I can feel is concern, not pity, I don't see him as below me or anything, he remains my equal and as handsome as ever, but right now he just needs to be taken care of. He is not riddled with scars as I'd thought, but there is one, a large gash along his chest and other various small ones. It's hard to see them, though. In reality, the scars are perfectly visible, but when I look at him I don't see them, just those warm brown eyes. 

The bath is working, and he feels much less hot than before. He's more alert as well. If he just stays in a bit longer he might return to a normal temperature, at least temporarily which would help until I can get medication in him, but I still have to cook . . .

"Okay. Here's a towel, you have to get out now."

He shakes his head, confused as if just having woken up. Did he really go to sleep just like that? He used to complain of insomnia. How ill is he?

"Don't wanna." His tone isn't clownish, but tired, so very tired.

"Dazai, I can't- you're not in a complete state of mind, you could hurt yourself."

"What if you could make sure I didn't?"

What's he got up his sleeves now? I make my scepticism clear on my face. "Perhaps, what do you have in mind?"

"I could sing to you . . . like in that movie with the little girl who's really an adult."

"What?" I'm not even going to ask.

"Like this" He hums a note, then another. I don't recognise the melody, but it's pretty.

"Fine. But If you stop, I will come right back in here, so don't try anything."

"Got it, Kunikida-san."

True to his word, he keeps humming as I start in the kitchen. The song is very nice. I'll have to ask him what it is when he feels better.

-

The broth, a slightly different recipe, to keep things interesting, finishes quickly. All that's left is for it to cool to an edible temperature, and to get Dazai into some clothes.

I'm only 8 centimetres taller than Dazai, so my clothes should fit him well enough. I pull out a pyjama set from the back of my drawer, it was a gag gift from Katai when I went to university, with a little nightcap and all. I leave the cap and take the folded set into the bathroom.

-

He looks so soft in the matching top and bottom that I can do nothing but stare. He sneezes, snapping me out of the trace. Right, his hair is still a bit wet. The last thing he needs is a cold.

He manages to stand, albeit with most of his weight on me, and follows me to the kitchen.

-

"Why are you doing this?" He asks as I set down the spoon. I helped him again. He didn't ask me to, even as a joke, and I wasn't sure he would if I didn't just- so I just did it . . . It would appear that, in some way, somehow I'm in this even deeper than I thought.

What can I say? Oh, I could say so much. What can I say that would be professionally acceptable?

"It's my job." AH, if there was an award for shit answers.

He sighs, "AH, right, duty-bound Kunikida-kun. Poor thing." The words are teasing, but I know him better than that.

-

He makes himself at home in the spare bedroom, out practically as soon as his head hits the pillow. When was the last time he slept in a real bed?

What do I do now? It's not that late, so I can't go to bed, but I can't go back to work, and there's now ay I'd let myself leave. I can't think of anything, so, as always, I stay.

He looks so peaceful, his breathing even, face relaxed. I gave him twice the normal dosage of medication.

Despite his apparent calm I can't help thinking that he should be in my bed. I want to hold him, to keep him warm and safe. I want him to know someone needs him, someone wants him. At first, I wasn't sure this new him even needed that anymore, but his behaviour today . . . I want to wake up and see his smile, a real one. I want to be the reason for it. I want to give him so, so many reasons to smile. And when he can't smile, I want to be there for him.

Looking at him like this, a sudden courage fills me. The courage to put pen to paper. I pull out my notebook and start writing, looking up every so often at Dazai's sleeping face, just to amke sure I phrase this thing I'm feeling right (if there's any way to physically capture it. I'd try even if I knew for sure there wasn't).

When I'm finally pleased, I close the book. It's dark out now. I must have been writing for much longer than I thought. Well, I guess I should get to sleep.

IDEALS [kunikidazai]

(A/N: I've been palying around with ship names for these two and came up with Ideal Human because together these two make one perfectly functioning person. Kind of like how Tachizaki is Midwinter Snow because if their abilities)

SUMMARY:

Dazai Osamu is the farthest possible thing from the ideal woman Kunikida Doppo has written so much about in his notebook.

And yet . . . Kunikida is hoplessly in love with him anyway. Kunikida doesn't belive he has a chance with his coworker, I mean, have you seen the way he flirts with women? Straight as the rulers Kunikida used to use in his maths class.

Dazai meanwhile is also inlove with uptight but still charming coworker. But how can Dazai ever come close to the woman Kunikida has in mind?

Will these two damn idiots figure their shit out or not? God, I hope they do, for all our sanity!

(Summary sponsered by Edogawa Ranpo)

Categories: angst, fluff, getting together

Warnings: N/A

Thank you to @wildroseroguefor inspiring me to write Kunikidazai for the first time. Rose has lots of Kunikida content on her blog, check it out.

[flower-khajiit]

I'm well into my second playthrough of Veilguard (with the Mourn Watch bacground) and I'm having so much fun. I love how much Mourn Watcher-specific dialogue you get with Emmrich and how geeky you can be about necromancy.

I also played through the intro as a two-handed warrior Warden, and had a blast. Normally two-handed warriors feel too sluggish for me, but here I just felt very powerful.

[mechazushi]

So, I've got this KafHoshi fic I'm working on and it's starting to turn into a, like, 5 + 1 scenarios kinda fic in the vaguest sense of the situation. Which means I need to come up with senarios about Hoshina falling head over heels for Kafka and I listened to Super Massive Black Hole by Muse, immediately followed by Landmines by Sum 41 and all I could think about for a day was a situation where Kafka had a "Homer learns the bass" moment in his teens and his mom or cousin or something was cleaning out an old storage container and sent him his old bass guitar.

Not to overindulge, but basically my mind wouldn't let go of the image of Kafka singing SMBH, but in his Kaiju voice, which then morphed into Iharu begging on hands and knees asking if Kafka could learn the bass line to Landmines and be the bass to his lead guitar and play the song on his birthday in front of the Third Division with him.

And THEN my brain was like....

"Ok, but a Saturday morning cartoon about A rock band getting mystical guitars that transform them into humanoid Kaijus with super powers so now they fight crime just because and they have to keep the identity a secret from the police and Dollar Store Iharu leads the team and in the first episode show starts off with the band needing a new bass player so they start tryouts and a Kafka-like character shows up and the whole team isn't impressed with him until he starts playing an absolute sick riff and they let him join and DS Iharu's dad is the band's manager and he's a shit dad but he knows about he Kaiju Guitars/private hero identity thing (Cuz' he's the one networking the media to help keep it a secret) and there's a side plot about Kafka the Bass player becoming DS Iharu'd Better Dad and Reno's there too, but he's the "No enthusiasm" Guitar seller that sold them their mystic guitars and he had no idea about what the guitars do and the team rope him in once he and the rest find out KnockOff Reno had been chosen to help the people that became bestowed with the Kaiju Guitars and now KnockOff Reno is the team's Guy-In-The-Chair and HE gets his OWN character arc and him and Dollar Store Iharu start to fall in love and then you find out that Kafka had a secret love child that he didn't know about and then spend a season off screen fighting for custody and I've given this way too much thought already but doesn't it sound REALLY COOL because I could see it becoming one of those cult classic shows that were only made to sell toys, but it became one of the few that managed to transcend beyond that..."

It's never going to happen. but I do agree with myself.

[fadeintoyou1993]

got to a point in my day to day life where i feel like if i lower all my expectations for everything ever and cut every single hopeful thought i can come up with that will With No Doubt become a whole Thing that turns into Anxiety and Regret and Desperation and finally Shame for Hoping (like. "good things could happen sure. whatever. if they don't it's not like i was expecting anything anyway lol") things would be easier for me. and it's like really sad and depressing to think that and i haven't stopped shaking today and i feel this intense need to start crying but i'm also just like lol whatever!! you know :)

[efexumukoroxlc]

Efe cocked his head to one side, as if he were really considering this fact for the very first time. "Yeah, yeah...I guess he does. I don't know. Does he have laser eyes? That sounds pretty scary to me. I mean, I like to think I'm pretty strong too, but I can't shoot lasers out of my eyes." He pursed up his lips, voice trailing off. "We'll go with Superman. He's retro. I'm sure he'll be fine. I hear there's a new movie coming too, so maybe I can get ahead of that."

Turning back, he offered a smile. "Oh. Yeah, I've heard of Aquaman. But what can Dolphin do? I know he, like, talks to fish, doesn't he?" Efe wrinkled up his nose. "Maybe you had to have read, like, the prior issue. A lot of these things have been running for years and years. I can't even keep up with the movies, and then...you know, like I said, they keep rebooting them, I guess. Maybe I should get action figures instead, and they can just play whatever they want."

The smile which followed was gentler. "I wasn't really allowed to read them myself. My parents were big on...educational media. If it wasn't teaching me something, I couldn't watch, read, or play it." He knit his brow. "There was a lot of...Reading Rainbow."

"He wears red undergarments over his tights," Billie mused, looking at the hero brightly plastered on some of the walls. "How scary could he be?" But appearances could be wholly deceiving. She knew that better than most. "I suppose he can be scary. Isn't he rather strong?"

She held up the issue she was reading, frowning. "It's..." she sighed. "Aquaman, apparently. He wears orange and has a beard. HIs companion's name, the blonde with-- with grey scales, is apparently Dolphin." She found it a bit ridiculous, the whole thing, and mildly uncomfortable, especially since that particular shade of scales was something she saw every time she got wet, much to her own chagrin. "I don't believe it's very good, but I also don't know what's going on, so that could be... contributing to my opinions."

She scratched the back of her neck, embarrassed. "I'm really a terrible judge of any of this. I don't think I really knew what a comic book was until I was in my teens, and I'd certainly never read one, even after. I'd never watched the movies." She understood so few of the references that she was supposedly robotic. A computer would at least have access and understanding of pop culture, though.