#i want them to know that we their allies too

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Any advice for figuring out how to work on writing characters arguing?

I’m just curious and also I mistakenly derailed part of my writing over struggling to write a scene of characters starting an argument that was meant to escalate.

Writing Notes: Arguments

Arguing is full of tension.

Even benign conversations between friends so often belies subtextual personal agendas that are antagonistic or covertly full of anger or upset.

Honesty itself sometimes is the product of extreme tension and upset.

One’s resistance to telling the truth to another or admitting to oneself a truth can be excruciatingly tense and stressful, even between lovers.

SIDESTEPPING

You instantly create conflict in dialogue when you avoid “on the nose” responses.

On the nose means a direct response, sometimes even echoing the previous line.

You can avoid direct response:

With a statement that is unrelated to the prompting dialogue

By answering a question with a question

With a line of dialogue that is going to need some explanation

Also consider using silence:

“Are you ready to go, dear?” Bob asked. Sylvia said nothing.

Or use an action response:

“Are you ready to go, dear?” Bob asked. Sylvia picked up the mirror.

OPPOSING AGENDAS

Always know what each character wants in a given scene.

If a character in a scene is just taking up space, give him an agenda or get him out of there. Or cut the scene entirely.

Scenes require conflict or tension, even if it’s subtle.

Before you write the scene, note what each character wants.

Then spend a few moments playing with those motivations.

List 3 other possible motives for each of the characters, then mix and match to decide which ones will make for the best conflict.

It is also important to create tension among allies.

One of the danger points in fiction is when two friends, or people who are at least on the same side, have a talk about what’s going on. The trouble is there might not be any trouble between them. So much of the dialogue becomes a friendly chat.

This will violate Alfred Hitchcock’s axiom (Hitchcock once said that a good story is “life, with the dull parts taken out.”).

The fastest way to handle it is to make sure there is tension manifested from the start.

Create tension in at least one of the characters, preferably the viewpoint character.

Example: When you have Allison meeting Melissa, her college friend, for coffee, don’t have them sit down and start talking as if nothing’s wrong in the world. Put the trouble of the story into Allison’s mind and nervous system and make it an impediment to her conversation with Melissa. In Melissa, place something that might be in opposition to Allison’s needs. Allison needs to ask Melissa’s advice about a crumbling marriage. Maybe Melissa is full of news about her sister’s impending wedding to a wonderful man and gushes about the prospects.

Spend some time brainstorming about the ways two friends or allies can be at odds. Then weave those things into the dialogue.

DIALOGUE AS WEAPON

Look for places where you can use dialogue as a weapon, a means for your characters to charge ahead in order to get what they want.

Keep in mind that dialogue is action.

It’s a physical act used by characters to help them get what they want. If they don’t want anything in a scene, they shouldn’t be there.

Note that not all weapons are explosive. They can be small and sharp, too.

PARENT-ADULT-CHILD

A great tool for creating instant conflict in dialogue is the Parent-Adult-Child model, popularized in the book Games People Play by Eric Berne (1964). This school of psychology is called Transactional Analysis.

The theory holds that we tend to occupy roles in life and relationships.

The 3 primary roles are Parent, Adult, and Child (PAC):

The Parent - the seat of authority, the one who can “lay down the law.” S/he has the raw strength, from position or otherwise, to rule and then enforce his/her rulings.

The Adult - the objective one, the one who sees things rationally and is therefore the best one to analyze a situation. “Let’s be adult about this,” one might say in the midst of an argument.

The Child - not rational, and not with any real power. So what does s/he do? Reacts emotionally. Throws tantrums to try to get his/her way. Even an adult can do this. We’ve all seen clandestine videos that prove this point.

So it is a helpful thing to consider what role each character is assuming in a scene.

How do they see themselves? What is their actual role? (It may indeed be different than what they perceive it to be.)

Most important, how will they act in order to accomplish their goal in the scene?

Answering these questions can give you a way to shape your dialogue so there is constant tension and conflict throughout.

Also consider that the characters might change their roles (try something new) in order to get their way. Thus, this is a never-ending source of conflict possibilities and only takes a few moments to set up.

TIP ON DIALOGUE

Look at all of your dialogue exchanges, especially ones that run for a page or more.

Analyze what roles the characters think they’re inhabiting.

Rework the dialogue by getting each character to be more assertive in their claimed role. (Also note that a character can change roles as a matter of strategy. For example, if the Parent isn’t working, a character might switch to pouting like a Child in order to get his way.)

Sources: 1 2 ⚜ More: Writing Notes & References

Hope this helps with your writing!

[prozacwhorehouse]

camera roll 📷 | mgg x snl cast member au

in which you do a variety ‘what’s in my camera roll?’ interview and reveal moments from your life

authors note: this lowk sucks but new subplot alert?? i love I used to be funny so i just had to. matthew mixed in with some background for our snl reader ✅

“Hi Variety, this is y/n y/l/n,” you smile and and give a wave to the camera, “and today I’m showing you what’s in my camera roll.”

“This is a picture of me at the premier for a movie I did in 2022, called I Used To Be Funny,” you turn your phone towards the camera, revealing a picture a friend took of you posing underneath the title outside a movie theater in Los Angeles.

“I had the pleasure of running into the very talented Ally Pankiw at an event in 2022, and when she said she’d seen my shows and asked me if I’d audition, I read the script and immediately felt drawn to it,” you speak with your hands, imitating an emulation from your body. “It was funny, it was devastating, it’s an incredible story that I’m so honored to have helped tell.”

“I always wanted to be an actress. So landing that role the same year I was cast on SNL, just a dream come true.” you smile warmly at the memory, moving on to your next picture.

You huff out a laugh looking at the next picture, “aww. I love this one, a lot,” you again turn your phone towards the camera, revealing a picture of Marcello, you, Michael, Molly, and Devon on set.

“This is me and my SNL 22 Crew, which is the name of our group chat,” you nod, “pretty sure this was right before our first show. we were so nervous but it was all okay because we had each other. We were all in the same boat, and that was comforting. Ugh,” you sigh, tilting your head up and smiling, “I just love them so much.”

“it was really hard to pick this next one because my camera roll is currently 60 percent him. All he says is ’wait take a picture’, so now I just have a whole collection of silly photos,” you roll your eyes in fake annoyance, trying to distract from the blush that has crept on your face while talking about him.

‘I’m not entirely sure where we were here, all I know is anything Halloween, Matthew wants a picture with. We had dressed up all crazy, I had on an insane fall sweater and like, striped witch tights. I do really love mismatching clothes, layering and looking insane, which I don’t really see a lot of guys doing?” you furrow your brows and squint your eyes in thought, releasing when admitting, “so I feel really seen by him. He isn’t afraid to be himself, so it makes me feel like I can be myself too. It’s amazing. He’s great. I’m very thankful for him.”

“Aww,” you jut your lip out, heart melting over the picture. “I was having a really rough week. I remember my sketch got cut, and I couldn’t think of how to make them better. I walked into my bathroom one morning and Matthew had stuck this on my mirror. I have so many pictures of these, but I picked this one because it was the first.”

You hum, “I could go on, but, I won’t,” you laugh, tilting your head back down to your phone, quickly exhaling to get back on track, “anyways!” Causing the crew to laugh behind the camera.

And the comments are all like

Loved her in I Used To Be Funny. So talented!

I hope she’s on SNL for a while, she’s one of the best additions in a while

The way she talks about Matthew is the cutest thing

Its so cute that y/n and Matthew are getting more public with their relationship, this is the first time she’s mentioned him by name

THE NOTE HE LEFT HER I NEED TO SEE THE OTHERS

—————————————————————————

tag list <3

@sarcasm-and-stiles @mystargirl-interlude @rubyirene @ashrrams @ghostatrixx @forevermorepassionate @saint-boudica @reidmarieprentiss @awakeforu @spencerlicious @kittycat-april @baudarling @delusional-4-fake-people @avenlymars @angelinajolie0213 @arusio @littleslayofhorrors @jezabelle9299 @jaemnationnn @princess-ofthe-pages @flow33didontsmoke

[snowysosturn]

Allies or Affiliates? - Chris Sturniolo Part 12

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12

Pairing : Y/n x Chris Sturniolo

Summary : Law student Y/n’s life takes a turn when she reconnects with Chris, her brief teenage flame who is now a dealer for a dangerous Boston drug gang. As their bond reignites, Y/n is drawn into Chris’s tumultuous world, where rival gangs clash and loyalty is everything. Balancing her love for Chris with her own ambitions, can their connection survive the chaos that threatens to pull them apart?

Warnings : MDNI, mentions of drugs, mentions of selling drugs, angst, cursing, mentions of death

Y/n's POV

The walk to college felt longer than usual, the weight of everything I’d learned pressing heavily on my chest. My thoughts raced, unable to settle. Danny. Nate. Chris. How had it come to this? And how much longer could this go on? The morning chill bit at my skin, but it barely registered since I was too caught up in my own head.

Just as I reached the halfway point, my phone buzzed in my pocket. Pulling it out, I saw Willow’s name flash across the screen. Taking a deep breath, I swiped to answer.

“Did you hear about Danny?” Willow’s voice was sharp, tinged with a mix of concern and urgency.

I nodded as though she could see me. “Yeah. I heard it on the radio this morning.”

“God, it’s crazy, isn’t it?” she said, exhaling audibly. “I mean, gang stuff is always on the news, but this.. this feels different, you know? Closer.”

Her words hit harder than I expected. She was right. It wasn’t just some distant tragedy anymore, it was intertwined with people I cared about. “It does” I admitted, my voice quieter than before.

Willow paused for a moment, then asked, “What’s been going on with you? You’ve been so vague since you left my place the other day. Are you okay?”

I glanced around the street, ensuring no one was nearby, before lowering my voice. “There’s.. been a lot.” I hesitated, then decided to tell her everything. “After I went home from yours I thought about what you said. About giving Chris a chance to explain himself.”

“And?” she prompted eagerly.

“And I did. I let him talk.” I bit my lip, thinking back to our conversation, his apology, the weight in his voice. “He drove out to me and we went for a drive, he apologised for everything. Said he wanted to get out of it all, that he hates the life he’s in.”

“Do you believe him?”

I hesitated. “I want to. I mean, he’s been honest with me about it all. He even stayed the night at my place.”

Willow’s gasp was loud enough to make me wince. “Wait? stayed the night? What does that mean, Y/n?!”

“Well we got high first..” I smirked, feeling my cheeks heat up despite being alone. 

“No way!! What was it like? I’ve always wanted to try” Willow exclaimed.

“Yeah it was fun like it felt nice and then.. we talked. Things got.. a little intimate, but it wasn’t—”

“Intimate?” she interrupted, her voice rising an octave. “Define ‘a little intimate.’”

I groaned, already regretting bringing it up. “Okay, fine. We kissed. Things got heated you know but ugh, Willow, can we not make this the focus right now?”

She chuckled. “Alright, alright. Go on.”

“I just.. I want to believe him. I want to think he can actually get out of this, especially after what happened with Danny. But now.. I don’t know. I’m scared for him. For Nate, too. Danny was their family, you know?”

Willow’s voice softened. “Yeah, I get it. It’s heavy. But Y/n, you need to think about what you want. If Chris really is trying to change, then that’s great, but you can’t be dragged into this with him. You know that, right?”

“I know” I said quickly, though the words felt hollow. “I just.. I can’t help but think about how they’re both feeling right now.”

Willow sighed. “It’s a lot, Y/n. But you’re strong. And if Chris is serious about getting out, then maybe there’s hope. Just… be careful, okay?”

“I will” I promised, though I wasn’t sure if I was convincing her or myself.

By the time I reached campus, the call had ended, but Willow’s words lingered in my mind. Be careful. It was sound advice, but how careful could I really be when everything felt so fragile?

I tried to throw myself into my classes, focusing on lectures, assignments, anything that could keep my mind occupied. But every free moment, every lull in conversation or pause in my work, brought me back to Chris and Nate. I couldn’t shake the image of Nate grieving, of Chris carrying the weight of everything he couldn’t say out loud.

I debate back and forth on whether to text Chris, wondering if I should let him know I’ve heard about Danny or if it’s better to just let him have space. My fingers hover over my phone screen, the words typed out but unsent. Hey, I heard about Danny. I’m so sorry. Are you okay? I read it over again and again, but I can’t bring myself to hit send. Chris is probably dealing with so much right now, and the last thing he needs is me crowding him.

After a few minutes of overthinking, I finally decide to let it be. We’re supposed to see each other later, and I’ll talk to him then. Maybe he just needs the space to figure things out on his own for now.

The rest of the day at college feels like a blur. I try to keep busy, immersing myself in assignments and discussions, but my mind keeps wandering back to Chris and Nate. How must they be feeling? Losing someone so close in such a brutal way… It’s a reality I can’t even begin to imagine.

I glance at my phone throughout the day, half hoping for a message from Chris, to make plans for tonight but it stays silent. My chest tightens with every passing hour, and I force myself to focus on anything else. When the final class ends, I pack up my things and head out, pulling my airpods from my bag.

The bus ride home feels endless, the cold seeping through my coat as I lean against the window. I put my music on shuffle, hoping it’ll distract me, but the first song that plays makes my heart sink. Everybody Dies in Their Nightmares by XXXTentacion starts in my ears, and it feels like the universe is taunting me.

Willow had said just a few weeks ago that this song reminded her of Nate. Now, with everything that’s happened, it feels like people’s nightmares are bleeding into reality. The lyrics hit differently today, every word tugging at my chest and reminding me how urgent it is for Chris to leave this life behind.

When the bus stops at my stop, I step off and start the walk home, the song still playing in my ears. My phone buzzes in my pocket, and I pull it out to see a message from Chris:

“Be round in an hour.”

My stomach flips at the sight of his name. I don’t know if it’s relief, anticipation, or anxiety.. maybe all three. But at least I’ve heard from him.

When I get home, I drop my bag in my room and try to pass the time by diving into some college work. My mind isn’t really in it, though. The words on the page blur together as I think about what to say to Chris, how to bring up Danny without pushing too hard.

As I sit there, something outside catches my attention – a faint glow filtering through the window. I frown and look closer, then realise what it is. The treehouse lights are on.

A small smile creeps onto my face. It’s Chris. I know it is. I close my laptop and grab a jacket before stepping onto the balcony.�� The crisp night air brushes against my skin as I step onto the balcony, pulling my hoodie tighter around me. The glow from the treehouse lights casts a warm hue in the dark, and I see Chris leaning against the door frame. My heart twists at the sight of him, even from here, I can feel the weight he’s carrying.

“Chris?” I call softly, not wanting to alert my parents.

He turns, stepping closer to the edge of the treehouse so I can see him better. His face looks tired, his jaw clenched tightly as if he’s trying to hold it all together.

“Hey” he says, his voice low and rough.

I hesitate, gripping the balcony railing. I’ve been playing this moment over in my head all day, wondering how to approach it. “I, uh.. I heard about Danny” I say gently. My throat tightens. “How are you? How’s Nate?”

Chris sighs, running a hand through his hair as he leans against the railing of the treehouse. “Nate’s a mess” he admits. “He’s pissed, and he’s not thinking straight. Losing Danny like that.. he was family, you know?” His voice cracks slightly, and he looks away, his gaze distant. “It’s hard. For all of us.”

“I’m so sorry” I whisper, wishing I could say or do something to take the pain away.

For a moment, there’s nothing but silence between us. The faint rustle of the trees fills the space, and I let it sit there, not wanting to push him too much. But the words I’ve been holding back all day finally spill out.

“Chris, you can’t keep doing this” I say, my voice firmer now. “Look what’s happening. People are getting hurt, dying, and it’s only going to get worse. You need to get out. You need to do it now.”

He looks at me, his jaw tightening as he steps back into the shadows of the treehouse. “You think I don’t know that?” he says quietly, but there’s a sharp edge to his voice. “You think I don’t want to walk away from all this?”

“Then do it.” I urge, stepping closer to the edge of the balcony. “Chris, please. This isn’t just about you anymore. This is about Nate, Danny, and everyone else caught up in this mess. And it’s about me too.”

He presses his lips together, the conflict evident in his expression. “I need time” he says finally. “Just two weeks. That’s all I’m asking for. I can’t just walk away overnight.”

“Two weeks?” I echo, my voice breaking. “And then what? How do you know this is even possible?”

“I’ll make it possible.” he says, stepping into the light again. His eyes meet mine, and I can see the desperation in them. “I swear to you, Y/n. I’ll find a way out. Just trust me.”

I let out a shaky breath, my heart at war with my head. I want to believe him, I really do, but the danger surrounding him feels like it’s closing in on both of us.

“I don’t know, Chris” I say honestly, my voice trembling. “How do I know you’re serious?”

He steps closer, leaning against the railing and reaching for my hand. His touch is warm, grounding me despite the chaos swirling around us.

Chris’s POV

I watch as Y/n processes my words, her hesitation clear. I can see the fear in her eyes, and it kills me. She doesn’t deserve any of this. She deserves better, better than me, better than this life I’m stuck in.

But as much as I hate dragging her into this, I can’t let her go. She’s the only good thing I have left, the only thing keeping me sane in all this chaos.

I step closer, leaning against the railing and reaching for her hand. “Be my girlfriend.” I say, the words spilling out before I can second guess myself. 

“I know my life is a mess right now, but I need you. You’re the one thing that makes me feel like I can get through all this. That's how serious I am.”

a/n: sorry for being MIA

taglist: @mattybearnard @sturn-33 @ncm9696 @yourfavsturniologirl @crazy4jewel @sodakid1234 @stupendoustreewinner @lovealwayssturniolos @matthewsturniolosss @m4ttsmunch @loveexxx @ilusa @starkeyszn @wonnieeluvvr @dylnblue @valxrieq @maggot3647 @cigarettecemetary @ribread03 @chrisstvrns @bandasaruswrx @noplaceissafeanymore @amexiass @witchofthehour @mattssgf @jetaimevous @v33angel @ivysturnss @urmom69lol @ashlishes @watercolorskyy @sturnioloshottiekay @amelia-sturniolo3 @imjusthereforthesturniolosmut @pvssychicken @alizestvrnss @lvrsturniolo @bernardsbunny @spaghetti835928383 @marrykisskilled @sturnsxplr-25 @bxtchboy69 @vickytaa @anikaistg @matts-girlfriend @lvrsturniolo @sophand4n4 @ilovepurpledragons @mattsside

[gardens-light]

Stowaway

Under the guidance of a former Decepticon, Sam Witwicky and his friends traveled across the plains of Egypt with Bumblebee and the Autobot twins. In search for a mysterious Cybertronian artifact- The Matrix of Leadership. Their plan? To reach the artifact before the Decepticons do, and bring back Optimus. Yet back at N.E.S.T, your heartbeat pulsed within your eardrums and thoughts swirled around in your mind. Struggling to make sense of everything, as your world begun to cave in from all corners. All the while, Director Galloway's grip tightened as the events slowly begun to unfold. Could your stubbornness and determine attitude, work alongside with N.E.S.T and their allies in achieving the impossible odds? Or... have the Decepticons cunning finally outsmarted the Autobots?

Context: Events takes place in 'Transformers- Revenge of the Fallen'. Major film spoilers. Reader Insert. Mild Coarse Language. Autobot Ratchet x F/Human Reader.

Inspired Song: Stay- Ari Abdul

Series- The Intern: Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 5 (Coming soon)

Word Count: 4,900

Diego Garcia. 5:30pm.

With your military duffle bag slung over your shoulder, your heart sunk deeper as your saddened gaze watched Director Galloway's men escort the Autobot's to the nearby C-17 plane. A frown forming upon your lips, as the Autobot's were confined to their altmodes.

"You... can't let Galloway do this." Concern filled your tone, as you approached Lennox and Lieutenant Smith. "This is a mistake and you know it."

"You think I don't know that?" Lennox sighed, lowly shaking his head. "Believe me, I've tried talking him out of this. But the Director is stuck so far up his own ass, that he just won't listen. And I... don't know what else to do-"

"Something! We have to do something! Surely, you have a plan? An idea? You always do in times like this!-"

"I-I've got nothing, Valkyrie..." a nervous knot twisted the major's stomach, running a hand through his short brunette locks. "I've talked to every contact, every politician, and every military official that I know... and every one of them don't have enough clearance to override Galloway's orders." Lennox's hand ran down his tired features. "Honestly, I don't know what to do... and that's never happened before..."

"I'm not leaving till you tell me you have something!-"

Lieutenant Smith's brows knitted together, a frown forming upon his lips. His gaze stern but filled with concern and understanding. "Listen, we know you want to help the Autobots, hell, I do too... but don't go thinking you can just defy a Director's orders and stay. We can't lose you on top of everything else-"

"Major Lennox!" a nearby soldier interrupted. Standing outside of the main hangar. "Phone call, sir."

The major raised an eyebrow, looking over his shoulder. Now what?

A heavy sigh escaped him. "I... should probably take this..." taking a step away from you, his unamused expression briefly fell upon you. "And please... don't go and do anything stupid."

I know you wouldn't just step aside and allow this to happen, Lennox.

Your gaze softened slightly, while you discreetly eyed the nearby C-17 plane in your peripheral vision. And you should know that I won't either...

Lieutenant Smith cocked his head to the side, giving you a puzzled expression. As tender smile replaced your frown, your words coming out in an almost sickly, sweet tone. "Of course not..."

A fellow soldier silently gestured to an unhooked landline phone, which sat upon the desk within the communications area of the main hangar.

The major took a deep breath, before speaking into the receiver. "This is Lennox. Who am I speaking to?"

"Lennox. I'm with the kid. The kid. Y'know, the one with the attitude, right?"

Agent Simmons? Briefly pulling the phone away from his ear, staring down at the receiver in confusion. "What?-"

"Listen. We need the truck. The truck." Despite his casual tone, Lennox could hear the nervous waver within his old friend's hinted yet decrypted words. "We've got a possible resurrection going on over here- you're not gonna believe where we are. Code Tut, as in King Tutankhamun. Coordinates for airdrop, 29.5 North, 34.88 East. Write it down! Write it!- Shit! Shit! The heat's on! Gotta go! Gotta-"

Lennox puzzled gaze looked back down at the receiver, as Agent Simmons' sentence was abruptly ended with a harsh 'click.' Slowly placing the phone back onto its holder, taking a moment of pause as Lieutenant Smith approached.

"More shit to add on our plate?"

The major's eyes flickered towards his comrade, "um... actually I've received a tip from an old friend... Sam might be able to bring Prime back-"

"Coordinates, 29.5 North, 34.88 East." A fellow N.E.S.T soldier interrupted, sliding a map across the table towards Lennox that had the location circled in red marker. "Tip of the Red Sea. Gulf of Aqaba."

"Egypt?" Smith scoffed, his tone dripping in sarcasm. "Are you serious?"

"The Autobots has done alot for us during these past few years, Lieutenant." Lennox muttered. "What kind of allies would we be, if we didn't do this one thing for them?"

"Look... even if we could figure out a way to get Big Man over there. How's this little kid supposed to bring him back to life?"

"I don't know... But we gotta trust him." Hang on... something's... missing... "Where's Valkyrie?"

"She left while you were on the phone." Smith sighed, kicking the ground and shoving his hands into his pockets.

Well... it was nice having her around while it lasted. "Did she... say anything?"

"Only that... 'it was great seeing you again.' And that, 'the Autobots would be an experience she'll never forget.' Oh... and that she's sorry."

She'd... apologized? A small frown came to Lennox's lips. That doesn't sound like her. Not when she's been firm and opinionated with her actions, like she has been recently.

Raising an eyebrow, his voice became tenser. "What do you mean, she apologized?"

But his comrade simply shrugged, "she... didn't specify..."

A heavy sigh escaped Lennox, while rubbing his temples. Your vague apology just didn't sit right with him. Something was definitely off.

"I... don't worry about it. Just... prepare to follow my lead, when I give the signal." Lennox's gaze met Smith's amused expression. "I have a plan." And... I'd really want to know what Valkyrie is up to.

---

The C-17's engines roared through the turbulent skies, the aircraft pushing hard against the heavy winds. Optimus' still form laid in the centre of the dimly lit cargo hold, as the tension within the air was palpable. Only punctured by the occasional rattle of equipment strapped down nearby.

Tucked in an impossibly cramped space beneath a row of seats, which hugged right side of the plane. Attempting to keep your breathes even, while hugging your knees tightly. Feeling every bone rattling jolt and turn of the plane's ascent, as the metal flooring pressed uncomfortably into your back. Occasionally shifting your weight slightly, keeping yourself as inconspicuous as possible.

"We've had an engine malfunction." Your eyes snapped open, staring at Lennox's seat above you in fear, as the pilots calm tone spoke over the P.A. "We're gonna have to divert to SOCCENT-"

"What?" Lennox groaned. Looking around the cargo hold, pretending to awaken from a nap.

"Flight Master, let's lighten the load and prepare to bailout-"

"All right, team. Grab your chutes!" the major directed. "Remember the standard safety procedure! Check your gear, before assisting others. Let's get ready to bailout!-"

"Oh fuck!" you breathed. Eyes nervously darting around your hiding space, witnessing Lennox and the rest of his N.E.S.T team grabbing their parachutes and preparing to skydive. You're alright. You're alright-

"Bailout? Like bailout?!" Galloway panicked, his head snapping from one direction to another.

"You familiar with the standard MC-4?-"

"Of course not!" Galloway snapped at Lennox. His nervous expression betraying his usual high-standard, professional bravado. As his gaze studied the major, as he fitted a parachute upon his back, "I've never jumped out of a perfectly good airplane before!- Wait a minute! Is this really happening?-"

Lieutenant Smith hid his mischievous smile, as he purposely bumped into Director Galloway, while adjusting the straps to his own parachute.

"Wait a minute. Wait a minute." Galloway looked over his shoulder, trying to study the lieutenant behind him. Attempting to regain balance, once his narrow gaze returned to Lennox. "You're behind this, aren't you?"

Of course. You continued to try and keep your breathing even and steady. You knew Lennox would come up with a plan, and he did. He's got everything under control-

"What are you talking about?" Lennox confused yet concerned expression met Galloways glare. "You heard the pilot. These guys don't mess around. This is just standard procedure. I'm just following orders to the latter. Isn't that what you said?"

"You just signed a death warrant on your career, Major!-"

A thunderous groan echoed throughout the aircraft, sending a violent vibration throughout the C-17's shuddering frame.

Your pounding heart begun to pick up it's peace. W-What... was that...?

"That's... not good." Lennox low tone muttered, nervously looking around the cargo hold. "Quickly! Come on!"

As the plane suddenly dipped to the left, your stomach lurched as the metal hull let out a groaning creak, reverberating through the cargo hold. The wind howled past your ears, as the large cargo doors fully opened. Allowing Lennox to drag Director Galloway close to the edge, as the government director continuously protested.

Lieutenant Smith quickly grabbed onto the nearest support, steadying himself, when he saw a flash of movement out of the corner of his eye. His surprised gaze widening as you slipped out from under the row of seats in front of him.

Instincts kicking in, the world slowed to a razor-focused clarity. Smith lunged forward, one hand reaching out for you as you rolled across the metal floor. Your fingers desperately scrambling for something to hold on to. Just as you were almost out of reach, the lieutenant's hand grasped your arm in a tight, unyielding grip.

Eyes locked. Yours wide with panic. His jaw clenched as he held onto you with everything he had, anchoring you in place. The plane shuddered around the pair of you. Smith tucked you close against his chest, shielding you from the gusts of wind that rattled the plane.

"What the hell are you doing here?" He demanded, though a hint of relief softened his tone as he met your gaze.

But you simply gave him a weak smile. "Didn't expect to have a bumpy flight-"

Lieutenant Smith shook his head, while allowing you to take a small step away from him. Gently placing a hand upon your shoulder to steady you for a moment, "do you know how reckless and insane of an idea this is? Lennox is gonna lose his shit!-"

"Thought you said I was among family now." You held out a relaxed fist, meeting Smith's eyes with a soft gaze. "Nobody goes through things alone when you're among family. Right?"

A small, lighthearted scoff escaped the lieutenant, his fist softly bumping against yours. "You're lucky I was here to catch you, kid. Grab a spare chute and stay close. We're not losing anyone today." Now I know why you vaguely apologized before...

The wind roared through Lennox's ears, as he pulled Galloway closer to the opening. Ignoring the director's continuous protesting, as Galloway clung onto the major. His nervous gaze flickering towards the ground miles below, seeing the hazy outline of the earth through the clouds. A vast expanse stretching out beneath them.

"Why aren't you wearing your chute?-"

"Because I have to secure the VIPs first." Lennox shouted over the roaring wind. Knowing fair well that the director could barely hear, "okay, I want you to listen very carefully and memorize everything that I say. Each chute has a GPS tracker so you can be found by Search and Rescue. Right next to that's a fabric webbing called a bridle, which holds the pin that keeps the main container closed."

Galloway looked down at himself, as Lennox pointed to various sections of the parachute and its straps. The director's confused expression growing more puzzled by the minute. Only catching small sections of the major's explanation.

"When the pilot chute inflates into the air, it pulls the pin and opens the main. Red's your backup. Blue's your primary. I want you to pull the blue! I need you to pull it really hard!" Lennox rolled his eyes, as Galloway prematurely followed his instructions. "Not now, we're still on the plane, you dumb-ass!"

The parachute opened and immedictly filled up with air, causing Galloway to harshly be blown off the plane and gradually float towards the ground below.

"He didn't even say goodbye." Lennox chuckled, approaching Lieutenant Smith. As the plane leveled out, the groaning and creaking of it's frame easing slightly. "That's one problem taken care of."

"Only for us to gain another." Smith gave his major a disbelieving smile. "We pick picked up a stowaway."

Lennox's eyes widened as you came into view, adjusting the straps of your parachute. "Valkyrie?!"

You flashed him a weak smile, shoulders shrugging slightly. "We both know you wouldn't let me come. Even if I did ask nicely-"

"For fucks sake! You had direct orders!" his stern and disapproving glare narrowed onto you. "This is by far! The most stupid and insane thing you've ever done!"

"Actually... this is the second most stupid and insane thing I've ever done. The first was dragging your injured ass through a landmine back in Iraq."

Placing his hands on his hips, a heavy sigh escaped him. Lennox ran his fingers through his short locks. A disbelief expression flashing across his features, as you handed him his chute. Rolling his eyes, while you smiled at him, giving him a mocking salute and quickly following the lead of his team.

Lennox gave Smith a side glance, while the lieutenant chuckled. "Great medic and a loyal soldier... but by God, is she a pain in the fucking ass..."

---

Ratchet let out a muffled 'oof' as you accidentally land right on top of him, the parachute following shortly after covering the pair of you. A low groan escapes the Autobot, blinking multiple times attempting to clear his vision.

Valkyrie?!

Optics widening in surprise. His servo instinctively resting upon your hips, as you knelt against his chassis, detangling yourself from the chute's strings while removing the parachute from your back.

"Y-You're... You're not supposed to be here..." Ratchet's words came out quieter than he intended. Nerves and annoyance pulsed throughout his inner circuits, yet his gaze remained soft but filled with worry. The pad of his thumb slowly rubbing in slow, circular motion against your hip. "You can't-"

"I told you." His spark thumped against its chamber, sending subtle vibrations against you. As your feathered touch caressed his plating just above his spark chamber. "I'm not going anywhere. And you should know... that your intern is always careful."

A heavy sigh escapes him. The pad of his index digit upon his free servo, lightly brushing against your hand which rested upon his chassis. "You and I have very different definitions of 'careful.'"

For a moment, beneath the parachute which tented over the pair of you. Everything seemed to... slow to a more intimate pace. The soft sunlight creating a comfortable, warming glow. Your heartbeat fluttering as your eyes met Ratchet's studious gaze, the Autobot's soft optics roamed over your frame. Worry flickering within them, while confirming to himself that you wasn't injured.

His breath hitched slightly, as your free hand rest against his cheek. Feeling the subtle warmth that rose to the surface of his faceplates. Finally allowing himself to smile, Ratchet gently nuzzled into your palm, letting out a low hum before speaking, his voice low and almost tender. "You're... infuriating sometimes, you know that?"

A small tug teased the corner of your lips. "Y'know, you wouldn't want me any other way."

The yellow Autobot swallowed thickly, noticing the silent question which flickered within your eyes. He knew what you were thinking about, and he'd be lying if that moment between you two wasn't playing on repeat within his processor. How even now, his spark yearned to reach out and pulse against your heart, like before.

"Don't... look at me like that."

You softly bit your lip in thought. "Ratchet... I-I... I need to know-"

"Let's move it!" Lennox's voice interrupted, watching his N.E.S.T team and the remaining Autobots get into position. His gaze studying the nearby Egyptian temple, which the desert sands has claimed parts of the ruins long ago. "Remember to look out for Sam Witwicky! He's friendly!"

Ratchet lets out a slightly annoyed huff. Disappointment flickered within his optics, as you carefully climbed off him. Shoving the parachute aside, exposing the pair of you to the summer sun. Damnit, of all the times too...

You gave the Autobot one final look. If... only he'd just tell me...

Optimus' body slowly floated towards the centre of the temple. His still body stretching across the sands of the open courtyard.

"Cover Optimus!" a nearby soldier ordered, as his team mates used their parachutes to cover Prime. Obscuring anyone and anythings view from above.

"Secure the temple." Lennox shouted, pointing in various directions as his team fanned out. "Get those cases down here. I need snipers and Stingers up high!"

Taking position behind a stone wall, resting his assault-rifle upon the top. Lieutenant Smith's voice remained calm, but firm as he looked through his scope, scanning the surround area. "So, we just dropped off ten tons of dead robot in the middle of nowhere? I hope this kid knows what he's doing."

A heavy sigh left Lennox, his concerned gaze briefly falling on you as you took position next to Smith. Keeping your tactical medgear within arms reach, while mimicking the lieutenant's silhouette with your weapon of choice. "Yeah... me too..."

Snipers and Stingers casually roamed the high walls of the temple, while some scouts checked in through the radio every so often. Beads of sweat formed upon your brow, as the harsh sun beamed down.

"Got a visual!" one of the snipers declared. Finally killing the still, uncomfortable silence which stretched on for eternity. "Yellow team! Four clicks!"

"Pop flare!-"

The sound of a jets engine roared through the skies, cutting of Lennox and drawing the attention of him and his N.E.S.T team.

"That thing's got alien tattoos all over it." You warned, studying the mysterious jet through your binoculars. "Ain't Air Force, Lennox."

Static suddenly echoed throughout your coms and radios. Causing Lennox and his team to erupt in guesses and questions.

Your eyes widened behind the binocular lense, catching a glimpse of a familiar marking upon the aircraft. "It's Starscream-"

"Bastard used an EMP burst." Ironhide growled, keeping an watchful eye upon the Decepticon Seeker.

"I see how this day is going in this God-forsaken desert!" Frustration begun to build in Lieutenant Smith's words, as the desert heat slowly chipped away at his patience.

Half An Hour Later

"Nothing..."

"Right..." A heavy sigh escaped Lennox as he brushed the sweat off his brow. "Go burn a SOS. Let the eye in the sky know we need some help. Pop some more flares so the kid can find us."

Standing within the shade of the old ruins, yet the heat of the sun didn't ease as you gazed out at the desert horizon. A small knot twisted your stomach, strange tingles bounced in your fingers and toes. Like how one would experience pins and needles.

"We... should come up with a Plan B. What if your... 'old ally' is wrong? Or mistaken somehow?" You whispered to Lennox. "Plus, if we ignite anymore flares. There's a risk of exposing ourselves to the enemy-"

"We've got incoming!" one of the snipers warned. "We've got a whole lot of fight coming our way!"

The knot in your stomach took a sickening turn. All eyes widening as seven to eight meteors crashed into the sand-dunes roughly a mile away. Your breath catching in your throat, as multiple imposing Decepticons rolled out to their full height.

"How many?-"

"About thirteen of them-"

"And what did the girl just say?!" Lieutenant Smith's frustrated tone shouted. Following yours and Lennox's lead, as you took up positions closer the temple's entrance. "This ain't good... This ain't good. We're about to get our assess whooped!-"

"All right, those Decepticons are searching for Sam! Whatever he has, he thinks it'll bring Optimus back to life." Lennox's authoritative tone held more encouragement than his lieutenant's. "So our mission is to find him, and get him to Optimus! We're gonna draw fire from the left flank. I need a scout team-"

"I'm leading." Ironhide spoke with a cocky smile. Withdrawing and clocking his cannons as they whirled to life. "Locked and loaded."

"Ironhide's team! Go up through the middle of the temple's entrance! When you see the precious cargo, I want you to pop green smoke and and come back through those pillars!" Lennox pointed to a row of decorative pillars upon the right, perfectly lining up with an arched entrance of the court yard. "Valkyrie. Ratchet. I need you here to hold the fort, while Sideswipe and I set up the ambush. All right! Let's go! Move out!"

---

Gunfire filled the air, engulfing the temple and nearby Egyptian ruins in a thick blanket of chaos. The stone pillars, weathered by centuries yet proud in their standing, lined the ruined path, began to crack and crumble, sending clouds of dust spiraling into the air.

"Fall back! Fall back!" Sideswipe called out to the soldiers of his small quadrant. Using his body to shield them, as the rattle of gunfire intensified as bullets peppered the ruins and desert sands.

With every strike, pieces of sandstone and intricate carvings dislodged, tumbling down the sand-dunes below.

"Ironhide! Up the middle!" the major called out, running down the worn down sandstone path, which the decorative pillars lined upon each side. "Ironhide! Move it!-"

"Go! Go!" Lieutenant Smith lightly smacked the side of Ironhide's altmode. Climbing into the trailer with his comrades, just before the Autobot sped back up the sandstone path towards the main courtyard.

Several snipers and Stingers clung to the edges of the high walls, struggling to find cover as pieces of the carved arches and statues crumbled around them. Their shouts filled the air, blending with the roar of machine-guns and the desperate clanging of debris.

"Move to cover!" Lennox shouted. Providing his comrades cover-fire, as they huddled together behind walls and archways within the courtyard. Unfortunately offering no clear escape from the onslaught, or the harsh desert sun.

Dust and smoke billowed around you, thickening with each burst of gunfire, eyes wide as realization begun to sink in. You and N.E.S.T were trapped.

Pinned between the temple walls and the advancing Decepticon force that seemed relentless, unstoppable.

---

"Spotted Sam!" Lieutenant Smith called out. Alerting his team whom scouted the outskirts of the ruins. "Sam!"

Peering behind a carved statue, Sam scanned the area while Mikayla huddled behind him. A smile of relief lit up the young adult's features, as he caught glimpse of a faminular gun-metal pickup truck. "Ironhide!"

"Sam!" Smith held out his hand, as the couple ran towards him. While his comrades provided cover-fire. "Get in! We'll take you to Optimus!"

---

"Get these men into cover!" you firmly spoke. Assisting Ratchet's squadron pull their injured comrades out of enemy fire, while the Autobot medic provided cover fire. "Move them into the temple! It's our best shelter!"

Quickly kneeling beside a soldier whose leg was twisted at a harsh angle. Your hands moved with practiced precision, applying a tourniquet, flashing the injured soldier a comforting smile. "Stay with me, Corporal. We're going to get you out of here-"

"Sweet Spark! Move!" Ratchet quickly crouched over you, as a portion of the temple wall groaned in protest due to another explosion.

Meeting the Autobot's gaze, your heart fluttered in time with his spark as you both realized the words that escaped him. Ratchet...?

Another section of wall gave way, a torrent of sand and debris raining down upon Ratchet's back, forcing you and nearby N.E.S.T comrades to shield their faces.

Then, the ground trembled.

The heavy thud of tank treads pounded against the ground, a rhythmic, unstoppable force that reverberated through the ancient stones of the ruins.

Please tell me that's what I think it is-

"We have help!" one soldier called out. Silently ordering his comrades to take the corporal to shelter, as he turned his attention back onto you. "Alpha Team, flank left!"

Not far beyond the horizon behind you, a line of Egyptian Army tanks appeared, their heavy barrels gleaming under the midday sun. Rolling forward, the monstrous machines parted the desert sands with brutal precision.

"Go... Go help them-"

"Not without you, Ratchet."

The medic flashed you a weak smile, as he raised onto his pedes. A low groan escaping him, while shrugging the sand and debris off his frame. His cannon whirling to life as he clocked it, "I'll be alright. We need to help Sam get to Prime."

"Come back to me." Your words came out more as an order, rather than a promise.

Briefly giving each other a loving smile, you both went in opposite directions. Ratchet approached Lennox, Sideswipe and their squad just outside of the temple walls. Providing much needed assist with the onslaught attack.

"This way! Over here!" you shouted, waving at the tanks and the Egyptian soldiers following on foot. "Move it!-"

Wiping the sweat off his brow, a middle-aged commander approached you. Giving a quick yet polite salute, "where do you need us, ma'am?-"

"Protect those in the line of fire-"

"You heard the lady! Let's go! Let's go!"

The tanks unleashed their heavy cannon fire, every round slamming into each one of the Deceptions fortified positions with enough force to send clouds of dust, bits of alien metal and debris into the air.

Egyptian soldiers immediately positioned themselves alongside with Lennox and his team. The commander quickly pulled you behind a small wall as a stay missile reduced the nearby statue into a pile of rubble.

As the commander positioned himself behind the wall, opening fire upon the enemy. You quickly pulled out your radio, yelling into the receiver. "Right now, we need air support. ASAP!-"

"Sam! Spotted Sam!"

Your heart immediately dropped to the pit of your stomach, fear shining in your eyes, as your wide eyed gaze spotted a waving individual in the distance. Bruises and cuts littered Sam's features, his throat sore and dry, as he yelled at the top of his lungs. His tiered and battered body attempting to shield his frightened girlfriend, Mikayla, and a heavily wounded Lieutenant Smith. As they ducked for cover behind a small, crumbling wall.

"Cover me! I need to get out there!" your words came out harsher than intended, raising your voice over the chaos. Gaining the commander's attention, "two civilians and a wounded officer is out in the open!-"

"Copy that! Two-Two covering fire! Two civilians. Twelve o'clock!"

The tanks advanced relentlessly, their turrets rotating with mechanical precision as they fired on the remaining Decepticons positions, each shot punching through the air like a battering ram. Each attack kicked up enough sand and dust to cover your moving position, quickly rolling and ducking your way to Sam.

"Look who showed up." Smith smiled through his pain, as blood trickled down the corner of his mouth. His breaths rapid and uneven as Mikayla's shaky hands applied pressure to his wounded thigh.

"You better have a good reason for us to be here!" you snapped at Sam. Immedictly approaching the lieutenant's side, studying the depth of his wound.

"The fuck?! You're supposed to stay with Ratchet!" Lennox called out to you. Quickly ducking behind the wall, avoiding gunfire from the nearby enemy. "And where's Ironhide?-"

"Holding off Megatron and his goons- ah!" Although Smith spoke through his teeth, you could see a small hint of a appreciative smile tugging his lips.

"Where's Optimus?" you could hear the panic within Sam's words.

"He's right over there, across the courtyard." Lennox briefly pointed. His studious gaze flickering over Sam and Mikayla for any injuries.

"I need to get to him-"

"Not with an air strike coming." You corrected. Ripping a section off the lieutenant's jacket and dowsting it in disinfectant, before wrapping it around Smith's wound. A subtle sigh of relief escaped you, as the bleeding upon his thigh slowed down. Thankfully all he needs is a few stitches-

"I have to get to him right now!-"

"Shut up, you two! Shut up!" Lennox hissed. Quickly placing a hand over your mouth.

A low animalistic growl, with the hint of an mechanical edge rumbled through the air. Making every hair on your body stand upon end, as every bone and muscle in your body screamed one word.

Run.

The sand barely muffled the heavy footsteps that approached your hiding spot. As Lennox, Sam and Mikayla pulled you and Smith closer to the wall, you saw fear flash across their eyes. Holding their breaths as a familiar warlord edged closer-

"Incoming!"

That's... not what I expected him to sound like.

Excitement and eagerness lined the unusually calm yet deep tone. Centuries of hidden wisdom softened the voice's words.

Who the hell? Lennox's curious gaze peered over the crumbling wall. His hand slipping from your mouth, as scoff escaped his lips. I don't believe it-

"Stick the landing- oof!"

Clumsily rolling out of their, Cold War 'Blackbird' fighter jet. Clashing into a nearby Decepticon and knocking them away from your hiding spot. Raising to his full height, the elderly Transformer smirked, as his optics flickered towards his bewildered comrade beneath his ped.

"Behold the glory of Jetfire!"

You and the others quickly covered your ears, as a deep resonant sound like a low, metallic moan of protest joined the chaotic air. The metal surface of the Decepticon's arm buckled under pressure, forming ridges and ripples where the smooth finish once gleamed.

A victorious smile framed Jetfire's face plate, his pressure upon his foe's limb deliberate and relentless, forcing the Decepticon's frame and inner circuits to yield in unnatural ways.

"Now let me show you how we brought the pain in my day!"

As he twisted further, the metal let out a sharp, piercing creaks, each sound echoing like a cry of defiance, while his former comrade screamed in pain.

"Jet! Look out!" Lennox called out.

Heeding the major's warning, Jetfire quickly grabbed his opponent's free arm. Almost stopping their drill from running him completely through, while he stomped upon their helm. The satisfying sound of crunching metal and sparked wires coming to his audio receptors.

"I'm too old for this crap!"

Tag List

@junebugessentials @genarf @overlyexcitedoutlaw @glamrock-kitten

[martialartslover7]

Weird Wednesday Headcanon: Outside of Team 7, Neji, Shikamaru and Kiba sympathize the most with Sasuke's fall from grace after the Five Kage Summit.

Alright, this is another headcanon of mine that can be written off as "mental", but hear me out, this has so much potential.

I'd like to think that, outside of Team 7, Sasuke wasn't just closely acquainted with Naruto, Sakura or Kakashi, but also:

Neji (whom we even got a small teaser hint of a rivalry between him and Sasuke for, which sadly, never came to be, because Byakugan VS Sharingan is a question in the community, that truly needs answering)

Shikamaru (shogi rivals, nuff' said, the only guy, that managed to corner Shikamaru at his own game, I mean, Sasuke is meant to be a genius too, so, why not?)

Kiba (just being around him, Sasuke's IQ just automatically decreases, but in a fun way, like Renji and Uryu from Bleach, considering, Kiba had lived most of his life, surrounded by moody, dominating women, and he might be Sasuke's "stay-in wingman", when it comes to Sakura, or they would just talk about how tiring women can be, but they do manage to get best results out of you with their motivation, and he would be way easier to handle for Sasuke, because unlike Naruto, Kiba ain't braindead)

These are the three main players, but if you want, you can also put Choji and Rock Lee into the mix, considering that, later down the road, Sasuke's and Choji's daughter would end up becoming besties, and if Might Guy wouldn't survive the war, he and Lee can become the new Kakashi and Might Guy, the next generation, if you will. And this is ironic, because...

...just by coincidence, who else was sent to get Sasuke back, to prevent him from defecting to Orochimaru? Ah yes.

But now, I get to the meat and bones of this thread. And that being, the reason why I believe personally, it was a wasted opportunity to not give Sasuke more personal allies that sympathize with his actions, after he joined the Akatsuki.

Like, NO ONE can tell me, that the Uchiha weren't the only ones, who were under close observation within Konoha borders, by the elders. Sure, they were the biggest target, but it leaves you asking, especially in regards to those clans, who are either the strategist faction, or possess sensory type abilities: What about them? Wouldn't they suspect that something was going horribly wrong over there, at the Uchiha compound? Did absolutely NO ONE hear the screams, or blood splatters? I am just not sold on the idea that EVERYONE in Konoha blindly agreed to Tobirama's discriminatory policies, some had to know better than most. The select few, who weren't exactly fans of just distancing themselves from another clan, all because some frankly racist piece of garbage for a Hokage said so, along with the useless shitstains, that are the Konoha elders, especially Danzo.

And now, three people come to mind, where I truly felt like, they could have been there that night, when the Uchiha clan was being slaughtered, and they were either too late to stop it, or Itachi had knocked them out with his Genjutsu (which purposely contradicts Madara's propaganda about "no one in the village cared about the Uchiha, and only saw them as tools"). And ironically, they are probably the very select few of the adult shinobi, who weren't complete sub-human trash.

Hizashi Hyuga.

Shikaku Nara.

Tsume Inuzuka.

Just picture these three adults being the only ones, who caught on to what was happening, through not just the screams of terror, the smell of blood, or seeing through the walls with the Byakugan from Hizashi. But sadly, by the time they arrive, most of the Uchiha were already slaughtered. And right before they could even act to evacuate those, who may have survived, Itachi arrives, and knocks them clean out with his Tsukuyomi, not killing them, as their passing would just cause an uproar throughout the village, the following day.

And once Danzo learns, that three non-Uchiha, Leaf shinobi, were actually present that night, and they may or may not have caught a glimpse of who else was there that night, Hizashi, Shikaku and Tsume were forced to stay silent on the matter, as Danzo threatened them, through the lense of the ROOT Anbu:

"Dare to let a single word about last night's events slip, then your clans will be receiving severe repurcussions."

I mean, sure, it's kind of silly to try and silence three unrelated Leaf ninja into keeping silent, but considering how paranoid the elderly can be, especially Danzo, I wouldn't put it past him to actually go there.

And how convenient, because as the story progressed, two of these adults would wind up deceased. Shikaku died in the 4th Great Ninja war. One piece of the puzzle, gone.

Hizashi would actually be the first one to die, before all two of them, because the Hyuga clan was trying to mend their security blunder that one fateful night, when someone from Kumogakure tried to kidnap Hinata. But keeping in mind everything I just said, it just adds another layer to how corrupt this shinobi system truly is. Who is to say, Danzo basically bribed the Hyuga elders to sacrifice Hizashi, in place of Hiashi, because he couldn't possibly risk that one defiant Hyuga showing lip to the Hokage? Something to think about. Even if Hiruzen remains a useless piece of shit. You can never be TOO careful, right?

Tsume would probably be the only adult to keep on living, to tell the tale, and through her, does Kiba learn, how deep the rabbit hole with Danzo actually goes, and how Sasuke's hatred for the village MIGHT be """mildly""" justified. Especially if Neji and Shikamaru were to approach him about their own clan blunders, involving Danzo, right after his passing at the hands of Sasuke.

But especially Neji, man... If everything I said gets applied in practice, it would mean, outside of Naruto, he might also be considered worthy of facing Sasuke in battle, after the Five Kage Summit. Because, not only does he more than understand how it truly feels to lose family and loved ones, but also, how this entire shinobi system is essentially screwing over those, who were unfortunate enough to be born into families, that get treated like dirt by the government, that is supposed to protect them. Just imagine their exchange, while Kiba faces off against Jugo, and Shikamaru holds Suigetsu at bay.

"A slave to your own family... I really don't need another moral lecture from a man, who willingly decided to stick to his own kin, despite them viewing you as nothing short of cannonfodder. And yet, despite it all, you still side with them... Run, Neji. Run and hide with your insignificant existence weighing you down, before I tear you to pieces." --Sasuke

"No, Sasuke. You're wrong. If it's any consolation, I am more than able to sympathize with your current state of mind. As of recently, I had to learn the hard way, that you and I, at the end of the day, are not so different. Believe me, you're not the only one, who was royally screwed over by the same village that you once swore to protect. The only reason, why I am not defecting, is because I still have family left to protect... Which is something I cannot say on your behalf, as much as it saddens me to say this. You have every right to hate us. Especially considering, we believed the rumors first, leaving no room for you to speak up and defend yourself. I didn't come to lecture you. And I won't run... because I am going to make you listen." --Neji

Pretty epic, isn't it? I am sorry, Neji is just the GOAT to me, and anything to make him and Sasuke spiritual broskies, I am here for that. Just visualize how adrenaline-driven their encounter would end up being, if you add the Bankakyo Byakugan into the mix. This is how Neji's Bankakyo would look like (source by Aleister Brown):

And for context on what this eye gives Neji for busted abilities, which make him a more or less equal match to Sasuke, after he got Itachi's eyes implanted:

Left eye: Foresight (he can look 10 seconds into the future, to predict Sasuke's moves, before he could even pull them off)

Right eye: Timeskip (improves his Taijutsu, by basically freezing time all around himself, and teleporting, at anything his eyes can see for time)

And, to make it even, with the Bankakyo, you can even summon a chakra avatar, similar to the Susano'o called, Sarutakahiko, take a look:

And because it's me, this is the music that plays in my mind, every time I am trying to visualize their fight, with these conditions being met:

...and to end this thread on a more comical note, when I said, Sasuke's IQ lowers around Kiba, and I compared the two to Renji and Uryu, here is why. It's even more ironic when you consider, Uryu and Sasuke have the same seiyuu! Noriaki Sugiyama! Check it:

OK, OK, enough with that. Have a nice day.

Peace.

[randomfoggytiger]

I don’t want to believe… You would think that Mulder would not blatantly give up searching for HIS SON, William, after he found out Scully had put him up for adoption. First reason why this doesn’t make sense: He spent 27 years searching for his sister. She was abducted by a shadow government group with lots of power to manipulate him and Scully, but that didn’t deter him from searching. So why stop with William? Second reason: Seeing Scully tormented by her decision—which in many fanfics caused their relationship to end—would have motivated Mulder to take action because he is very protective of her. Third reason: Although the LGM are gone (another bullshit concoction of CC to kill off beloved characters for no reason), it’s hard to fathom that Mulder doesn’t have other friends or allies who could hack into the adoption system to track down his son. I would love to get your thoughts on this. For me, the series ended in season 8, but they made season 9, IWTB, and the revival seasons so I have to ask… I love reading the different perspectives of how it all went by the many talented fanfic writers, but I haven’t read any that takes these points into consideration. Please point me to them if you know of any!

THANKS! =)

I think what CC was going for was a two-fold decision:

Scully lost faith in herself, and gave up William

Mulder lost faith in himself, came back to dead friends and his son gone, and resigned himself to execution

This doesn't work for a couple of reasons:

Mulder wouldn't have left in the first place, even if Scully had begged him (see Redux II, there are some things his conscience won't allow)

Scully wouldn't have given up her son through a private adoption, given Emily's history with adoption and the Consortium

Now, would Mulder have stopped the adoption? TLG were alive when it happened, right? But he wasn't told about William's placement until after their deaths and his imprisonment-- meaning, the only time we see him react-ish to his son's adoption was after he'd lost sight of himself and was sitting sadly waiting for execution (I think?)

On the one hand, TLG and Danny from the FBI were shown to be his only "get 'er done" contacts; and Danny wouldn't be an option after Mulder and Scully took to the road. However, that never stopped Mulder if he wanted to get information: he's more likely to break and enter than let the matter rest (his entire mission during Season 9, for example.)

My guess would be: he didn't retrieve William because he knew there was no life for his son on the run. How would he go to school? How would he get his necessary medical appointments? How would he make friends and live the life he needed? It would be different if they went on the run together, of course; but that didn't happen.

However, the above logical explanation doesn't take into account the fact that Mulder and Scully know their son's privacy would be invaded even if the adoption were closed. Just as I think Scully would have decided against a closed adoption-- she would've, at least, had TLG find her suitable parents on the down-low-- and just as I think Mulder wouldn't have left to begin with, so, too, do I think both would have heard information while on the run that made them double back to protect William's safety. Or Mulder would have anticipated it and told Scully, and both would have hoped their son would be okay. In that case, that anxiety would need to be addressed in IWTB and the Revival, i.e. Mulder finding a contact to trace the closed adoption and constantly checking up on his son (via computer) from the Unremarkable House. And Scully would have sanctioned these measures and been just as overprotective.

But guess what? IWTB throws a wrench in that plan: Mulder basically acknowledges the FBI knows where his hiding spot is (roughly) and decided to leave him alone for... five years? Why, then, didn't he try to get back his son? If he and Scully were on the road one year and in housing the rest... why not at least look into his son's adoption? Did he? If so, the writers neglected to mention that.

Here comes the sticky problem: I can see Mulder, unable to challenge the adoption (wanted fugitive, hello), having to resign himself to the hope that his son was happy after a few years. We see him let 'Samantha' go in Redux II-- back to the Cancer man, even-- because she chose to. He will let people do what they think is best, but he won't forget. And after 2012 passes, there's no way he stays away from his son (especially after the Revival practically states his depression wasn't linked to 2012.)

Realistically? William would have been snagged years before the Revival. And even though Scully thought she'd cured him with magic rocks (getouttahere), both she and Mulder know William is a liability (in S9) to all factions: one of them would have found and exterminated him, easily, just to tie up loose ends. Mulder and Scully would have to be profoundly stupid people to believe otherwise. Moreover, I don't think Mulder would be as trusting to William's safety after Skinner told him his son had been adopted: I think it would have made him paranoid, and snapped him out of his funk-- because even when down in the depths of the dumps, Mulder will set aside his issues to protect someone else. And William, per this information, needed to be protected. And let's say he pushes the issue: Scully either pushes back, and he respects her decision; or Scully gives in, persuaded by his arguments. Both are left up to the skill of the script; but logically his arguments would be pretty sound.

I'm sure I could come up with ten ways to Sunday how the adoption could have fallen out, so consider this one possibility. ;))))

[mueritos]

i hope we continue to see more protests within the US military. i see a lot of leftists and folks who are anti-military who have such an open disdain for the people who are in the military, yet neglect to considering the conditions this country makes to produce ideology, poverty, and the illusion of choice to make all kinds of people choose to enlist in the military. You ever see those videos of ROTC kids recording each other asking why they joined the military and everyone's like, "healthcare", "it helped me go to college", "I was bored" or "free ptsd lol". I hate to remind everyone but folks who are in the military are people, too, and they are the same victims and perpetrators of violence as the rest of you, we have all been shallowly conditioned to view each other as enemies just because one person is wearing army greens and the other is not.

some of the biggest anti-war advocates are those who engaged in war. Veterans who genuinely believed they were protecting the US against "terrorism" come back with blood on their hands, and they choose to realize that it was US imperialism that forced them to carry out violence, instead of doubling down and shielding themselves from the fact that they too are capable of atrocities... This is a class of people who are intentionally conditioned to be as poor and as ideologically aligned to US imperialism so that the military has a never-ending pool to send their youth to destroy other country's youth. The only people I have ever heard say "do not join the military" are those who ARE military.

This is in no way to ever excuse or explain away any of the atrocious war crimes and violence this industry and its people have committed against others. What I am saying is that we absolutely cannot cast aside the individuals who have been victimized within US imperialism, even if they are wearing army greens. I was speaking with my Palestinian classmate last week and another classmate--a member of the US air force-- walked up to me and struck up a conversation. My military classmate showed me her new bird, bid both of us goodbye, and left. My Palestinian classmate asked me if I was close with her, and I said we talked quite often, and she said, "I never met a person who's in the military. I still hate the military, but I never knew that they did, too. I didn't realize that they were also victims."

If my Palestinian classmate--one who is actively watching her own community die--can understand that it is not individuals who are the problem but it is in fact systems, US imperialism, white supremacy, capitalism...why can't we all? And she has EVERY reason to hate any individual military member. A lot of online activism just creates more barriers. if your optics look bad, complicated, or contradictory, you are cast aside. Everyone has got the be the perfect activist, you can never make a mistake or share a half-baked thought, you should always believe every word from a marginalized persons mouth (because being marginalized doesn't mean you're not entrenched in white supremacy too!) and you should never question what you see...Do you know what you sound like? The very imperialists who are convincing poor whites to vote against themselves. Perfectionism is white supremacy. Black & white thinking is white supremacy.

I'd rather have a military member who genuinely believed in the US imperialism machine but was disillusioned after being deployed as my comrade than some leftist who cherishes the performance of "being a good person". I don't want "good people" in our movements. I want humans who care. I want humans who make mistakes and who learn from them. I want humans who accept the messiness of a person. I want humans who hold others accountable and allow themselves to take responsibility for their actions. I want people who change for themselves and others.

fight systems, not individual people. we can change each other, but if we're too preoccupied looking like the World's Perfect Activists, we will only consume each other alive. Connect to your fellow humans, forever and always.

[randomnameless]

Why do the FEH devs insist on ignoring Nabatean lore so much?

I recently had a surprisingly cordial discussion on redshit with someone about the "nabateans = colonisers" take, and one of the main points raised was that the game was purposedly foggy around Nabateans/Sothis/their story because it would obviously favor a certain narrative (and thus make another narrative look, uh, not that marketable anymore).

To be honest, we still ended up with a product that had a lead go "this race and its blood* is the reason why the world sucks" and yet that lead is still marketable enough to have raunchy cipher cards and 5 FEH alts, so I actually wonder if, while pissing on that lore had that purpose, it was ultimately pointless since Supreme Leader can still sell goodies despite her incarnation in FE16.

And not only Supreme Leader - but the entirety of WC where we basically have 70% of the cast crying/complaining about their "mixed blood" or lack of and basically adding their 10 cents to the "this race and its blood is the reason why the world sucks".

I mean, can you imagine Sylvain selling any goodies and alts if Flayn replied to his "wah wah people only are kind to me and want to fuck me because I have Nabatean blood :(" by some uncharacteristic "good for you, I have to hide my ears, had to dye my hair, have to lie about my family because if the truth is found out about my identity, I will be hunted and vivisected like an animal and harvested for parts by people who call my kin abominations - just like what happens in the game where the same people who call my kin "abominations" ally with a classmate who calls me a creature and pretends I am incapable of human feelings based on my race".

FE Fodlan's main selling point is its cast of students, for various reasons, but even if I tried to kid myself, Nopes and FEH made it clears : students are the main selling point.

If you spare more time and attention to the Nabatean plot/lore, the students either grow from "likeable" to "despicable" or worse, you won't gaf about them because yeah sure, Hilda might be upset because people expect things from her due to her crust, but it would feel like a "peanut" compared to Seteth's irrational (granted, it's not so irrational since GW exists) fear that Flayn's newest friends would dissect her if they learnt she was a Nabatean, and being conflicted by finally letting her have human friends and form bonds she crave, or protect her due to the trauma from the genocide of their species.

Don't get me wrong, I love peanuts, I mean, not everyone can have a tragik of loaded backstory!

And yet, given how this verse's DNA is "can you fight against the red emperor who uwus about you", they had to add copious amounts of Earl Grey to their games so there's no clear-cut factions :

The "Your alien blood and its influence on the world corrupted it, so I want to reform it under my command" vs "I don't want to die and you oppose me due to my race and side with the people who genocided my kin"

is turned to :

"Your alien blood Crests and its your church's influence on the world corrupted it, so I want to reform it under my command"

"I don't want to die and you oppose me due to my race and side with the people who genocided my kin"

Sprinkle with the cast's hammering here and there that the "reforms" might be needed - but never develop on what they are - and add a few baseless and groundless takes as a toping (basically everything Claude says about tolerance and the general "isolationism/foreign policy" stuff) and you get FE Fodlan where the Red Emperor's war isn't seen as the catastrophe it is in the other entries from the series!

Now, for FEH...

FWIW, the F!F!Billy's trailer had them try to explain that Sothis was a bit pissed about her slaughtered/massacred children when Nopes never gave any reason about why she was pissed - maybe on Billy's behalf bcs Jerry's dead, but come on, she would indeed deserve the medal of the worst parent in the franchise if that was the case, since Billy can murder her daughter without Sothis taking over ! - but given that they cannot write/go against the source game those characters are from.

They tried a bit, with B!Supreme Leader and Hegemongard's FB, but then it stopped (because she had no "new unit" released since then lol) and I can understand why : Hegemongard came out before the Supreme Emblem, and Hegemongard hates dragons who are seen/perceived as gods by some of their human followers. Come FE17, and now Supreme Emblem accepts Alear because they are "one of the good ones". We can come up with HCs and details and talk about what are emblems or if Hegemongard's views were only hers at the end of AM all day long... But imo, Doylist wise, it still feels it's a retcon because the devs from the main games tried to scrap and remove the most "controversial" traits she had.

For the other characters... Well, you see what Marianne is in FEH (but even in her base games), she's one of the few characters who reacts - in a way - to the partial history about relics and demonic beasts and all... only to give sad uwus to Maurice.

FE16 (and Nopes) refused to have any "student" character react to the Nabatean lore/reveal, about what are relics and all. There are no lines, Claude shared some knowledge in the explore section of VW's last chapter, but we don't have anyone muse or think or even talk about what are relics, what are crests, and what kind of fuckery their ancestors or the ancient humans of Fodlan did.

With that in mind, FEH can't do much : either they write Marianne in a retcon-y way like what happened for Hegemongard (and they're not afraid to piss on characterisation, look at Lyon!), or they flanderise her "character" and develop her around 3 lines she had in the game in her paralogue, and continue to give sad uwus about Momo when he was at best a guy who slaughtered and murdered so much that he abused the Nabatean turned into a relic to the point where he turned in a demonic beast even if he had a matching crest, or at worst, had been part of Nemesis's piñata party in Zanado and was something of a genocider.

Tldr :

Why FE Fodlan never gaf about Nabateans : earl grey + the marketable cast has to stay marketable and you can't sell peanuts at the same price you'd sell swordfish

Why FEH dgaf about Nabatean lore : they can't afford to retcon characters + they have to sell peanut alts with the same seasoning they had in their base game.

For what it's worth though, I think FEH is more daring than the base game(s) given how they gave more lines and screentime to Rhea - through her different alts - than GW. And they even designed her Halloween!alt's lines to piss on some of Claude's assertions, while the various FB involving members of the church also - indirectly - reply to some accusations thrown their way in FE16 when, FE16, never gave them an opportunity or lines to explain that those takes were full of dung.

*"but random, maybe she doesn't know that the crests she often decries is "dragon blood"!"

It's highly debatable, especially given what she and Hubert throw to Billy in CF - but even if she doesn't, Doylist wise we still have a character who, knowingly or not, says "this race and its blood* is the reason why the world sucks" and who is never called out on her prejudice. That's more of an issue regarding the general writing though, she has to be a red emperor and took pages from Ashnard's book, and yet, the player must still feel bad and want to romance her, so her mindest/goal cannot be looked at too closely, because, I guess, even the devs thought it would be difficult to romance her (thus sell goodies!) if more light was shed on the "blood from this race corrupts our people" schtick -> which in turn would also make characters whose backstory and gimmick rely on "crying about crests" be way less likeable, thus marketable and able to sell goodies.

[ask-codeearasure]

I'm going to flip a fucking table dude. Stages 2 and 3 might like activities like this the most, cause it's already been established Stage 2 is a fucking weirdo and Stage 3 is animalistic. Chasing Color would be perfect for them under many circumstances whether it be for roughhousing or suggestive shit after they're free or if they're still under Nightmare’s control and want some form of sadistic entertainment.

But imagine the flipside of Color's intuition as well. If his gut feeling is primed to threats, what would it be like if he was the "predator" in a given instance?

I mean we already saw some of that in the Othertale animations (rip Ivory's pride). Killer would perhaps get a kick out of that too. Like for once he's the one being hunted, and by the skeleton equivalent of a fire zombie no less. He'd hate that if he were working for Nightmare (given he hasn't been convinced he deserves better yet) but enjoy it after he's free knowing Color wouldn't actually hurt him.

Both instances from Color mean safety to his allies but an implicit threat to his enemies.

Bastard's difficult to catch and can be an expert hunter of the hunters based on that intuition. In this case I'd call it an instinct at this rate, bonus points if paired up with our alterhuman headcanons.

-- Sarco

The way Color was fighting for his life in the Sans Hazard comics is hilarious. Why are they making it so hard for him to protect them 😭

He was the only one with sense too, everyone trying to go their own separate ways and split up.

Also, I found it interesting how Color was able to sense something about to happen, or somehow knew that the ones hunting them knew where they were. Is his intuition and “gut” feelings that good?

Also, more talk about Color being a “dead body.”

Makes me wonder if he did truly die after absorbing the souls and killing the human, but the six souls reanimated him. Wonder if he’s like a zombie. The way it’s said the six souls keep him alive, implying that maybe his own soul doesn’t keep him alive? Or he doesn’t have his own soul.

And then of course him absolutely beating Killer and Cross’ asses. That’s what six human souls get you I guess.

[dimension-20-every-introduction]

Everyone Introduced in Dimension 20's Fantasy High: Junior Year episode 20 (finale)

[pinkd3mon]

I can respect the hater mentality

[summer-sapphic]

Hi I'm mad

[helpimstuckinafandom]

JUSTICE FOR DAVINA CLAIRE I'M SO FUCKING SERIOUS FUCK OFF OH MY FUCKING GOD

[biblicalhorror]

Thinking about one of the loser men I dated directly post-college who, after I showed them Dirty Computer [the emotion picture] by Janelle Monae, said they "prefer rap that has something to say"

[werewolfsonpage211]

i just have to write through my feelings about predathos rn cause WOW i was truly leaning heavily in oryms direction of we dont know what that shit do youd have to be stupid to even try. like i was feeling okay with the prospect of them releasing predathos cause it is objectivly the most interesting choice you could make, narratively, from a doylist perspective etc etc, but i wasnt feeling it yknow. and i gotta be honest a big part of that was because i do sympathise with the gods some more than others like on a fundamental level i feel theyve got just as much a right to exist as every other living being in the world, theyre people to me and i simply dont like the idea of them dying/having to flee. and yes okay melora is my blorbo out of them and i hate thinking about her being forced to leave exandria leave nature leave everything she loves and has become and is. i was way more hoping for the resolution of bh not releasing predathos and instead remembering RQs hint that they could strike a deal with the gods as a reward for saving their asses.

and then 114 happened. and i fear it changed me irrevokably. matt did something horrible. he gave me hope. like i already had a sliver of hope that if the gods left maybe vax would be free and alive but also maybe hed just be dead or just gone and anyway he wouldnt want to be saved in exchange for such a sacrifice (not that the people making the choice would be anyone he knew...) but but BUT then matt rq gave him a night. vox machina was given a night. and all of a sudden i cant imagine going back to the way things were. if the gods are saved the world may still be changed forever, but not for vax. he only has a night. then he goes back to her. but. if the gods leave, it can't stay the same, not even for him. im not even sure, despite the hope that matt/rq gave me, that he would be freed if rq left. maybe he is kept by her divine power. maybe he would die, or disappear forever (who knows what happens after death when there are no gods?). or maybe he, given a night of life, would simply feel her grip on his string loosen and fade away, leaving him as he is right now, where he is right now, as the raven queen's last parting gift. either way, death or life, it would be change. either he would get a chance to keep living, or keyleth would get a better chance to move on. and that spark of hope for change killed whatever part of me that still could tolerate him being in her service in perpetuum. i cant stand it anymore. i dont accept it.

despite my deep and complicated feelings regarding this rn i am also remembering that it is all a work of fiction and i am fascinated by the way my opinion on the predathos conundrum could be swayed so quickly and, dare i say, decidedly, by new emotions being stirred in me. and i am examining how even tho i was backing up my opinion with (what i see as) logical and objective arguments, i was still being affected by my sympathies for different fictional characters the whole time - from melora (and the pcs i associate her with) to vax and vm. going though it has taught me something about how people can be swayed on much more serious, real life matters. i truely dont know if ive ever changed my mind so dramatically (regarding both strenght and character of the opinion as well as swiftness of the change) in my life before. before i watched c3e114 i was hesitant at best to the releasing predathos idea, now im rooting for it to happen. and dont get me wrong, i still think orym's argument is the most sane and safe one and if i myself had to live in exandria i would most surely be on his side of the debate. but i dont, im the audience of a fictional story and right now i would love to know just what the fuck that shit do.

[hauntingblue]

I loved this movie about nami and her ex situationship reconciling and also anti capitalism