#i want to draw LOTS OF IMAGES for the next chapter so it might take a while lol. but i really want to finish before novembers over

[crimetimesteadicam]

i drew this picture and then didn't put it anywhere in the chapter so. take it. have a semi-unreleated image of lupin sitting in a folding chair in a skeevy 1989 west coast cokehead evil demon outfit

chapter 10 of triduum is up! read it here!

(start from the beginning here)

[honeyhae-svt]

On My Command

SEVENTEEN FANFICTION (SERIES)

AFAB!READER x SEVENTEEN - MNID!!!

GENRE: Mafia, Businesses, Dark Romance, Smut, Gangs, RomCom, Action, Fem!Reader x Mafia!Seventeen, Baddie!Reader x Businessmen!Seventeen

⚠️ WARNINGS ⚠️: Language, Kissing, Making Out, Persistence. -warnings for this chapter

♡-Mention of other groups like TXT, EXO, ENHA, G-IDLE, LE SSERA, NCT DREAM, RIIZE (this is a series so ig i will be adding more to than these warnings) - MDNI OR I WILL BLOCK THOSE WITHOUT AGE INDICATOR ON BIO.

READER IS NAMED LI MEI QIANG!!!

>>>> IMAGES ARE FROM PINTEREST so yeah, ctto. Enjoy babies. ♡

On My Command - Masterlist (Chapters)

CHAPTER 2

"I heard our rival's CEO is either Chinese or Japanese," Wonwoo remarked, drawing the group's attention. "Who did you hear that from? And why didn't you share it as soon as you knew?" Jeonghan demanded.

"We weren't sure yet... so we decided to wait until Minghao and Hoshi could confirm it," Wonwoo explained. "What we know for sure is that they're not Korean," Soonyoung added, and Minghao and Hoshi nodded in agreement.

Xu Minghao is a Chinese member of Seventeen, known for his skills as both a hacker and a slasher. He's adept with blades, particularly nunchucks, and excels at coding. His contributions to the company include producing, design work, and managing store branches throughout the city alongside Mingyu.

Minghao shut his laptop and whispered something to Soonyoung, who nodded in response.

"I swear, if you keep another thing from us, I'll be the one to cut your tongues off," Seungkwan said, rolling his eyes at their exchange.

"S.Coups told us to keep quiet until now," Minghao clarified, and Wonwoo and Soonyoung. "But we need confirmation soon. The shipments are arriving in three days, and we can't afford any sabotage," another voice chimed in.

"We're aware," Jeonghan replied, glaring at the hacking team. "These hackers are too slow and don't take their jobs seriously."

"You can't blame us entirely. We've already done a lot for the group," Jihoon retorted, clearly annoyed.

"Jun, Dino, have you found any information yet?" Joshua asked, cutting through the argument. "We just returned from another mission, so apologies for the delay. We've confirmed that the rival company is indeed Chinese," Junhui said, tossing an envelope onto the table.

"You had this information all along and didn't share it sooner?" Jeonghan asked, grabbing the envelope and scanning its contents.

"We only just got it ourselves. Don't put the blame on us," Junhui replied.

"Well at least you guys did better on your researching than the hacking team," Seungkwan says, side-eyeing the team mentioned which makes Hoshi want to leap and beat Seungkwan up into a pulp, but of course, he wouldn't do that. Seungcheol would kill them if they caused another trouble.

Wen Junhui, another Chinese member of the group, is renowned for his research skills alongside Dino. He contributes to both planning and production and is responsible for disguises, which he handles with great expertise. His insane visuals are enough to make you think he'd bring no harm.

Lee Chan Lee Chan, known as Dino, is the maknae and excels in cons and disguises. He plays a key role in the group's planning and production and is known for his charisma, which enhances his disguise work.

Jeonghan, Joshua, Woozi, and Deokyeom left for their separate meetings, leaving the remaining eight members in the room.

"This is our first mission failure," one man said, disappointment evident in his voice. "It's not a complete failure yet. The deadline isn't up," Soonyoung assured him. "We were split into three groups, each with four members. We might have managed better if we had worked together."

"Ay, ay, it's alright, Vernon-ah. We just need to learn from our mistakes and do better next time," Seungkwan said, patting Vernon’s shoulder. "Besides, we all had different missions, so we couldn't assist each other."

Chwe Vernon, the American member, has high expectations and views 'failure' as unacceptable. He is involved in both business and gang operations, excelling as a strategist and sharpshooter.

"Even so, it's okay to be disappointed," Wonwoo said, standing up. "I'm leaving," he added before walking out."I’ll leave too," Vernon said, also rising from his seat and exiting. "Those two really have such huge egos," Seungkwan remarked as he watched them go.

You were at work at the beauty store, successfully convincing a customer to buy three products. The sale boosted your confidence.

"Mei, our boss is visiting today because of yesterday's incident," Yuqi informed you, and you acknowledged the news.

Li Mei Quiang / YN, the protagonist, is a persuasive and observant 22-year-old Chinese who has lived in Korea since age six. Your expertise in psychological thinking and sociability makes you effective in your job.

Song Yuqi, a Chinese who moved to Korea four years ago, has become your close friend. She often calls you 'Unnie,' meaning older sister, as she is two years younger than you.

Choi Beomgyu, Choi Beomgyu, your best friend and a part-time store employee, is a year older and works as a musician. His social nature and connection to his band add to his role at the store. He also has his own set of other friends that is part of his band, and is practically a social butterfly.

Lee Heeseung, one of the people that you hold close with, your guardian since you were six, took you in when you were lost at the airport. Though his family needed convincing, he became your legal guardian and treated you like his own sister (once he reached his legal age). Ever wondered how a six year old even got there? Well, you were lost at an airport, you didn't know how to speak korean, so he took you with him.

He works at a small company, enough to make a living while taking care of you. He is five years older and treats you like his real little sister.

—AEYA HERE!: Count this as one of character introduction! Hehe, and, oh.

Choi Seungcheol is the boss of the Seventeen group, known for his stern and commanding presence. He has successfully led the group in both business and gang activities for five years.

3 days later.

The tension in the air was palpable as you stood in front of the manager, his eyes drilling into yours with an intensity that made your skin crawl. “You didn’t recover the stolen products, did you?” His question was pointed, almost as if he was challenging you.

You raised an eyebrow, biting back the urge to lash out. “No, sir...” you answered, your tone laced with thinly veiled sarcasm. His hand shot out, gripping your chin, forcing you to meet his gaze. He smirked, a sinister glint in his eyes. “You know what that’ll cost you, right?”

A dangerous grin curled your lips. “And why exactly am I the only one getting punished? It’s not my fault your damn store doesn’t have any security.” You swatted his hand away, your voice dripping with defiance. Yuqi and Beomgyu exchanged knowing glances—they’d seen this side of you before.

The manager’s eyes narrowed, caught off guard by your audacity. “You little—do you want me to fire you?”

You didn’t back down. “Fire me? Because your store doesn’t have the budget for a single security guard? Or is it that you’re pocketing the money instead?” You tilted your head, feigning innocence, your voice cutting through the room like a knife.

For a moment, he was speechless, his bravado crumbling. “W-what are you implying?” gulping in his words at the sudden statement you had made. You grinned in a smug kind of way like the proud and confident woman that you are.

“You know exactly what I’m implying,” you shot back, leaning in just enough to make him uncomfortable. “The company’s successful nationwide. There’s no way it can’t afford proper security unless someone’s skimming off the top. Should I take this up with the CEO?”

Yuqi and Beomgyu were silently cheering you on from behind. Your boldness was nothing new to them, but it never failed to amaze. The manager, realizing he was backed into a corner, stammered out a weak excuse before scurrying off, tail between his legs. Of course, he could've defended himself, but you knew too much and he just couldn't find the words to deny it. He'd get away from more humiliation. As the manager, he'd have more power over you, but you towered over him so quickly he didn't have the time to escalate things. He didn't see that coming, he was the new manager after all.

“Damn, that was epic,” Beomgyu whispered, a smirk playing on his lips.

“Seriously, unnie, you’re my hero,” Yuqi added, eyes shining with admiration.

You waved them off, checking your phone as it buzzed. The manager had sent you a message, instructing you to handle an incoming shipment at the airport. A sly smile crept onto your face as you replied with a curt, “Send me the details.”

Jeonghan, Joshua, Woozi, and Deokyeom were sipping their coffees, scanning the bustling terminal. They were waiting for the arrival of a critical shipment—a shipment they suspected had been compromised by their rivals.

“There,” Jeonghan muttered, nodding towards a woman talking to a man who matched the description of the dealer they were expecting. His eyes narrowed as he noticed something off. “That’s not the manager.”

“What do you mean?” Joshua asked, following Jeonghan’s gaze.

“The manager is supposed to be a guy,” Jeonghan replied, suspicion growing in his chest. “Could they be using someone else to do their dirty work?”

Woozi was already tapping away on his laptop, pulling up information on the mystery woman. “Li Mei Quiang... She’s listed as an employee from one of our branches, but there’s not much else here.”

Jeonghan’s mind was racing. “Why would a manager delegate something this important to a regular employee?”

Woozi’s eyes widened as more information came through. “It’s possible the manager’s a spy. He’s only been with the company a month—just before this whole mess with two groups started.”

Joshua frowned, piecing it together. “It was all planned. They sent him in as a mole.”

“And what about her?” Deokyeom chimed in, nodding towards you. “She could be part of it, too. There’s so little info on her, and she’s been working there for two years. Seems like a perfect candidate for a spy.”

Jeonghan sighed, his gaze still locked on you. “We’ll keep an eye on her, but for now, let’s make sure these products don’t end up in the wrong hands.”

The four men watched as you and the dealer loaded boxes into a truck. The tension was high as they followed you to the store, where they intercepted you just as you were about to offload the shipment.

Woozi approached you with a steely determination, flashing his ID. “These products need to be examined first.”

You glared at him, blocking his path. “And who the hell are you to make that call?”

Woozi’s irritation was palpable, but he kept his cool as he showed you his identification. Reluctantly, you stepped aside, arms crossed, watching as they took the boxes.

---

“So, we managed to stop the sabotaged shipment,” Soonyoung said, slumping into his chair, a sigh of relief escaping his lips. “But I’m still not sure about that girl,” Jeonghan muttered, pacing the room.

“You think she’s working with them?” Chan asked, leaning back in his seat.

“Possibly,” Jeonghan replied, rubbing his temples. “She might be more involved than we thought.”

“Relax, hyung,” Chan said, trying to ease the tension. “They wouldn’t send someone important out in the open like that. It’s too risky.”

Before Jeonghan could respond, Wonwoo and Mingyu entered the room, looking drained. “Turns out the ones who sabotaged our products were from EXO,” Woozi announced, breaking the silence.

“EXO?” Chan echoed, incredulous. “What the hell do they want with us?”

“They see us as competition,” Seungcheol said, his voice grim. “They’ve started a business here in Korea, and we’re in their way.”

Their company has been going well for the past 5 years, yet this commotion started about a week ago, making the rest of Seventeen members alert at the suddenness. EXO was a chinese group gang who had recently started their own business here in Korea a few months ago.

“Great, so now we’re dealing with a bunch of sore losers who resort to sabotage,” Seungkwan scoffed.

Seungcheol nodded, his expression dark. “We’ve lost a lot of money because of them. But this isn’t over. We’re going to double down on security and make sure every shipment is checked thoroughly. And as for that girl...”

Jeonghan straightened, his eyes narrowing. “We’ll keep a close watch on her. If she’s working with EXO, we’ll find out soon enough.”

He knew something was different too, but they also could be wrong. Wasting a time on that is just a big no for them given to the situation they're in for now.

Seventeen knew that they've already sent a few spies to their company to take note of whatever they had planned, so EXO was practically one step ahead of Seventeen.

A tense silence settled over the room as the members of Seventeen prepared for the inevitable confrontation. The stakes had never been higher, but they weren’t about to let anyone bring them down.

---

You walked back into the store, still reeling from the encounter. Your mind raced, wondering what the hell just happened. But there was no time to dwell on it—you had a job to do. And something told you this was just the beginning of a much bigger game.

The sun barely broke through the clouds that Sunday, casting a muted light across the room as you moved with purpose, determined to clean every corner of your apartment. Heeseung wasn’t home, so you had the place to yourself—rare time to get things in order on your day off.

As you wiped down the countertops, the silence was interrupted by your phone buzzing on the counter. You glanced at the screen: an unknown number. Ignoring it was second nature; you never took calls from numbers you didn’t recognize. But the phone buzzed again and again, the persistent vibration grating on your nerves.

“The hell is this?” you muttered, irritation creeping into your voice as you prepared to block the number. Just as you were about to hit the button, the phone buzzed again, your thumb accidentally grazing the answer key in your frustration.

“You finally answered,” came a hoarse voice, instantly familiar and unwelcome. Your heart skipped a beat, a cold realization sinking in. “Who is this?” you demanded, now holding the phone to your ear.

“Baby… Please… Come back to me,” the man’s voice cracked, punctuated by the sound of soft sobs. Recognition hit you like a wave—this was your ex, the one you broke up with over a year ago, his obsession clearly as strong as ever.You hung up abruptly, a frustrated sigh escaping your lips as you massaged your temples, trying to stave off the headache that was beginning to form. The phone buzzed again, the same number flashing on the screen. You blocked it immediately, your frustration bubbling over. “How did this guy even get my new number?” you muttered. You’d changed it twice, yet somehow he’d found you again.

Hours later, the apartment was finally spotless, and the only task left was to take out the trash. You had missed the janitor’s usual rounds, so you grabbed the bag and headed for the stairs. As you descended, the faint sound of footsteps echoed behind you. At first, you brushed it off as someone else taking the stairs, but as you reached the third floor, a hand suddenly gripped your arm, spinning you around.

Your instinct was to fight, to kick the assailant away, but then you saw his face—Riki, your ex-lover. Your body tensed, recognizing him instantly.“Riki…?” you muttered, eyes narrowing in disbelief.

Nishimura Riki, the same guy you’d dated for three months before calling it quits. Heeseung’s friend, a year younger than you, with a reputation for being far too obsessive. Even after a year, he clearly hadn’t moved on.

“I told you, we can’t,” you said, your voice firm with frustration. “Babe, please, just one last chance,” Riki pleaded, his voice desperate as he grabbed your hand, ignoring the trash bag you were holding. “I just held the trash, don’t touch that,” you snapped, yanking your hand away. “Let’s talk some other time. Not now.”

But Riki wasn’t about to give up easily. He lunged forward, wrapping his arms around you from behind in a desperate hug. “Riki! Let go of me or I’ll cut both your arms off!” you yelled, your voice echoing off the stairwell walls.

“Baby… I don’t know what I did wrong, why did we have to break up?” Riki’s voice was filled with pain, his grip still tight around you. “I swear, this guy is so stubborn,” you thought, pushing him away with all your strength until you were finally free.

“For the thousandth time, you didn’t do anything wrong. We just didn’t work out, okay?” you said, putting as much distance as possible between you and him.

Riki was a good guy—too good. Caring, loving, understanding, he had every quality someone could want. But that was the problem; he was too nice, and you didn’t feel like you deserved it. You didn’t take things seriously, and you knew that if you didn’t end it early, it would only hurt him more. But looking at him now, you realized how wrong you’d been.

You shouldn't have dated him in the first place, right? Your brother had set you up with him, on which you did agree to go on dates until you found it to yourself that you weren't that serious about it, which made you regret your decision.

“I’m sorry, Riki,” you said, your voice softer now as you turned to finally head downstairs. You hurried to the ground floor, feeling his gaze on you until you reached the exit. You placed the trash bag with the others by the side of the building, taking a deep breath as you bent over, hands on your knees.

You watched as Riki’s figure retreated, driving away, his shoulders slumped in defeat. Just as you felt a slight relief, another figure caught your eye—a man dressed entirely in black, with a mask covering most of his face and a cap pulled low over his eyes. You’d seen him around the complex before, always looking out of place. You decided not to get involved—whatever his business was, it was none of yours.

Back in your apartment, exhaustion washed over you as you slumped onto the bed, scrolling through your phone mindlessly until sleep finally claimed you.

Across town, in a dimly lit meeting room, a man entered, his footsteps echoing in the silence. Eleven figures were already seated around a large table, their faces obscured by shadows. The man took his place, and the one next to him leaned in, whispering, “What took you so long?”

“Seventeen has upgraded their security,” the man replied, his voice low. “The new system’s protection is too high—I can’t hack into it anymore.”

The leader at the head of the table slammed his hand down, the sound reverberating through the room. “Shut it. Because of your reckless actions, they found out about the shipments! Now you can’t even stay focused!” he shouted, his voice filled with barely contained anger. “Contact those seven boys and the three spies I’ve placed in each of their stores. Seventeen is already on to us.”

The group nodded in agreement, the tension in the room thick enough to cut with a knife.

The following Tuesday, you were back at work, talking to Yuqi about the argument you had with Heeseung the day before. “Typical sibling fights,” Yuqi remarked with a shrug, while you rolled your eyes in response.

“Even if I’m mad, I don’t have the right to be. He’s the one who raised me,” you said, sighing as you fixed the shelves, Yuqi nodding along.

After a brief silence, Yuqi suddenly perked up. “Oh, unnie, do you have any plans for your birthday tomorrow?” she asked, her tone light.

You thought for a moment before shrugging. “Not really. Heeseung said he’s busy, and Beomgyu has something going on, so I guess there are no plans this year.”

"But unnie, we should still celebrate!" Yuqi insists, her excitement has not diminished. "How about we go clubbing? You're stressed, and maybe a night out will help."

You considered her suggestion, a small smile tugging at your lips. “Not a bad idea. I didn’t have anything planned, but I guess this could work.”

The next day, Shuhua picked you up in her luxurious limo, Yuqi and Minnie already inside. You wore a simple black dress with white off-shoulder puffed sleeves and a slit up the side, practical yet elegant. Your makeup was light, accentuating your natural beauty.

As soon as you stepped into the car, the girls squealed in delight, their eyes wide with admiration. “You guys act like you’ve never seen me before,” you quipped, rolling your eyes as you took a seat.

“We just wanted to give you extra attention since it’s your birthday,” Minnie said with a chuckle, the other two nodding in agreement. “Happy birthday, pretty girl,” Shuhua added, handing you a pair of designer bags.

“Thank you, girlies,” you replied, smiling as you accepted the gifts. Shuhua, ever the generous CEO, had picked out something luxurious, while Yuqi handed you a small box containing a delicate necklace engraved with all your names.

“Aww, this is really sweet,” you said, giving Yuqi a hug before slipping on the necklace. The car ride was loud and full of laughter, the four of you enjoying each other’s company until you arrived at the club.

The night was going well—too well, perhaps. A few hours in, the girls were already passed out, Minnie was nowhere to be found, Yuqi was slumped over the table, and Shuhua was making out with some random guy. You found yourself alone at the bar, the night still young but already feeling drawn out.

It was just after midnight, and you watched the crowd from above, perched on a stool with your legs crossed and your chin resting in your hand. You were starting to feel the effects of the drinks you’d had when a man walked into the room, instantly drawing everyone’s attention.

He was striking—tall, around 178-180 cm, dressed in a slim-fitting, jet-black suit that accentuated his lean frame. The suit’s fabric caught the light with a subtle sheen, perfectly tailored to his body. Underneath, a crisp white shirt contrasted sharply against the dark suit, the collar open just enough to reveal a glimpse of his collarbone. His deep burgundy tie added a splash of color, and a simple silver tie pin completed the look. His hair, slightly tousled yet meticulously styled, framed his sharp jawline, softening the intensity of his gaze. The way he carried himself—with a quiet confidence and a subtle, knowing smile—commanded the room’s attention.

His presence was magnetic, and despite yourself, being tipsy, you found yourself drawn into his presence. He started a conversation with you, offering you a few more drinks, making you feel more tipsy and you just couldn't help but feel drawn to this man in front of you. After a few moments of talking, the next thing you knew is that you had your lips all over his already.

~~~You've reached the end. Wait for Chap 3 ;)

On My Command - Masterlist (Chapters)

—AEYA HERE!: YNNIE??? WHAT ARE YOU DOING??? ಥ⁠‿⁠ಥ and who is that man? (⁠人⁠ ⁠•͈⁠ᴗ⁠•͈⁠)

—AEYA HERE!: your likes, reblogs, follows are very much appreciated. it boosts my dopamine and makes me want to upload asap so yeah, interacting with me really helps ^^

-NOW OPEN FOR TAGLIST!!! MESSAGE ME / COMMENT YOUR @ AND I WILL BE TAGGING THOSE WHO WANTS TO BE UPDATED ^w^

[nolita-fairytale]

don't want to walk alone | carmen 'carmy' berzatto x fem!reader | chapter five: the honeymoon pt. 2

summary: you and carmy enjoy the last few days of your mini-moon.

warnings: light smut, husband!carmy who comes with a warning label of his own, swearing, lots of tooth rotting fluff, marriage, no use of y/n, second person pov, she/her pronouns

wc: 3.2k

listen to: the official don't want to walk alone playlist (mentioned song - lizzy mcalpine's 'dancing queen' cover)

a/n: hi cuties. here is part two of the honeymoon in chicago. i will be writing an epilogue to finish out this series, then my focus will be back on the world of 'burn your life down.' please enjoy all of this fluffy, lovey dovey content because these two deserve.

part four | masterlist | epilogue

This feels right, you think to yourself, stretching out in the abnormally large bath tub that overlooks the Chicago River. This being the bath, your honeymoon, the non-stop sex between you and your insatiable husband. 

You’re up to your shoulders in bubbles, the temperature of the water just the right amount of hot, and you’ve got to admit that you need a recovery bath from the last night or so. 

“You gonna join me in here or what?” you ask Carmy, a flirtatious smile on your face as you steal a glance his way. 

He sits facing you, a few inches away on the floor of the bathroom, the sketchbook that you got him as a wedding gift laying in his lap as he continues to make furious strokes with one of the wildly-expensive-yet-worth-it pens that you purchased in addition to the sketchbook. 

“Nah,” Carmy exhales, the corners of his lips curving up into a smile as he looks at you like you might disappear. “I just wanna look at you a little longer.”

“I know it’s kind of our thing now. But maybe tomorrow night?” he offers up, half apologetically. You shake your head, as if to let him know it’s no problem, and Carmy returns his attention over to what he’s sketching. 

“Watcha workin’ on over there?” you ask, curiously, in reference to the broad strokes of pen on paper that you can hear. 

“It’s a surprise,” he answers almost too quickly, his focus unbroken as he keeps his head down, buried in whatever it is he’s drawing. 

You inhale deeply, letting out your breath on an even deeper exhale and it feels as if you’re melting into the warm bubbles that surround you. 

“I’m just glad you’re drawing again. You always seem to light up when you do it,” you sigh, settling into the comfort of your bath, even though you now have to accept that Carmy won’t be joining you tonight. 

You close your eyes, listening to the sound of your bubble bath playlist that plays over the speakers of your phone – the easily recognizable voice of Leon Bridges filling your ears as your shoulders relax. 

“Why don’t you draw something? For our next tattoo,” you suggest, your eyes beginning to close. 

“God, I love you so much,” is Carmy’s reply, without missing a beat. 

Opening one eye, you sit up slightly to get a good look at Carmy, shooting a quizzical look his way. 

“Well, yeah. But are you referencing anything in particular this time?” you giggle, peering over the edge of the tub in hopes of getting a look at what he’s sketching. Carmy tuts, clutching the sketchbook close to his chest so that he’s sure you can’t see. 

The two of you exchange a look, then a laugh, before you resign yourself, sinking back into the tub. Carmy can’t take his eyes off of you, watching you close yours. He looks down at his sketchbook, the image of you in the bathtub, your hair tied up in a messy bun on top of your head beginning to take shape on the page. With deep blue eyes full of love, he finally answers your previous question with:

“You encourage me to dream, baby.” 

A beat. 

“It’s one of the many reasons I love you.”

You inhale again, peeking one eye open just for a moment as you grin.

“I love you too, Bear. So, so much.” 

You take another breath, and a beat, before reiterating, “And I meant what I said. You should draw something for our next tattoo.”

“You really want my scribbles on your body forever?” he asks, skeptically, completely discrediting the talent that you know he knows he has. 

“I married you, didn’t I?” you shoot back with a shrug. 

He snorts out a laugh, shaking his head incredulously. 

“Don’t know if that’s the same.”

“Seriously, Bear. I know we talked about maybe adding some ink to mark this chapter of our relationship… but I really want you to draw it. You don’t have to make up your mind now but, just think about it, okay?” you continue, this time opening both of your eyes to look at him – just so he knows that you mean it. 

“Sure,” he nods hesitantly. “Uh… yeah. I’ll think about it.”

You hum along to your playlist as the song changes, and Carmy returns his attention to his sketchbook, stealing glances your way as he continues to work on his drawing of you. You swear you’ve slipped into the kind of relaxed state that yogis traveling to an ashram for the first time can only dream of, as both you and Carmy settle into a comfortable and quiet rhythm. 

Carmy hasn’t felt this inspired in a long time – noting that he hasn’t felt this relaxed in a long time either – and he’s more than willing to admit that it’s all the love (and all the sex, because it’s certainly not hurting) that’s sparked this creative kick. He was nervous before, before checking into the hotel earlier today, that maybe he wouldn’t be able to relax – the idea of going to the spa with you tomorrow is still absolutely terrifying – but it’s moments like these that remind him that he may not be so bad at this whole relaxing thing after all. 

It could be minutes, hours, days when you decide to get out of the tub – having lost track of time entirely since you checked in at the Langham hotel. Without saying anything, you pull the plug on the bathtub, allowing it to drain as you stand up, grabbing for the fluffy, plush white hotel towel. 

And you know that you could put on a robe, just like Carmy, but you have a better idea. 

You’ve been saving the little white slip dress that Natalie bought you for just the right moment, and you think this might be it. You can feel Carmy’s eyes on you as you disappear from the bathroom, leaving him where he sits on the floor, and back into the bedroom in search of where you hung the slip dress earlier this evening. 

You wonder how long it will take – if he’ll follow you back into the bedroom – but he doesn’t, so you take your time drying off. The white slip dress slides off of its hanger easily. You pull it over your head, allowing it to settle gently over your frame, noticing just how softly it drapes over your figure. 

Nat really nailed it with this one, you think to yourself, the pads of your feet hitting the ground as you head back into the bathroom to hang up your robe. 

Carmy’s gotten up off the floor, having carefully set his sketchbook down on the long counter, confident in the way he stands, waiting for you. He watches you like a hawk as you begin hanging your robe on the back of the door, a smirk beginning to form on his face. 

“What?” you ask, because you know exactly what he’s thinking without even having to look at him. 

“Nothin,” he answers, cheekily.

As you turn around, Carmy’s taking a step towards you. You busy yourself with taking your hair back down, watching your reflection in the mirror as Carmy approaches, coming up behind you. You can feel his hands slide along your hips, pulling you towards him as he begins to leave soft kisses on the tops of your shoulders. 

“Jus’ wanted to let you know how beautiful you are,” he mumbles in between kisses, pressing his hips against your ass. “That’s all.” 

“That’s all? You’re insatiable, Carm. You know that?” you ask him with a giggle, watching him in the mirror this time. 

“Oh come on,” he counters you. “You knew exactly what you were doing.” You moan as soon as you feel one of his hands bunching up the material of your dress, his lips curving into a smile against your skin as he hears you. “Putting this on for me.” 

“Baby,” you sigh happily, beginning to understand just how fun a honeymoon is supposed to be. 

“This feels familiar, doesn’t it?” he begins to tease you, moving your hair to one side of your neck.

“Remember when we snuck into a dressing room…” he continues you, his piercing blue eyes bearing into your soul through the mirror image – just like that night. “... during the James Beard Awards…” 

“How could I forget?” you gasp, his teeth nipping at the soft skin of your neck. “It was Syd’s first win and neither of us could wait till we got home.”

You remember it well, especially now, as Carmy begins to grind his hips into your ass, his eyes pleading with you in the reflection, begging you to let him fuck you. 

“Friday night and the lights are low…”

You smile, as soon as you recognize the lyrics to one of your favorite songs. Only this time, it’s nothing like the version you and your best friends sang at karaoke night, this version done as an intimate, acoustic singer-songwriter cover. Carmy’s hands are patient, slowly exploring your body as you turn around to face him, surprising him as you wrap your arms around his neck. 

He sends you a questioning look and you smile back as you lean in, placing your mouth over his in a messy kiss. 

“I love this song,” you whisper against his lips, pulling him in for another kiss as you press your body closer to his. “Dance with me, Carm.”

“Yeah?” he asks, with a single, amused raised eyebrow. 

“Yeah,” you answer with a smirk. “I’ll make it worth your while.” 

Instead of answering (or protesting, considering he had his sights set on fucking you up against the bathroom counter), he just embraces you, holding you close to him as the two of you sway back and forth to the song, exchanging heated kisses. It’s here, in the midst of a push and pull of desire, dressed in a fluffy white bathrobe and the slip dress his sister bought you, that you and Carmy have your first dance as man and wife. 

It’s exchanged kisses, teasing remarks, and eager hands till the very end of the song, both of your feet coming to a halt, too consumed with the passionate makeout that Carmy’s engaged you in this time. Your hands travel to where his robe is tied closed, beginning to open it as your breathing picks up. 

“Think we can count that as a first dance?” Carmy asks, in between kisses, his lips moving at a feverish, more desperate pace this time. 

“Definitely,” you reply, the softness in his eyes matched so well with the softness of the music. It’s then that you kiss him again, your mouth beginning to trial south every time you return to him. 

“Baby,” he moans, as he watches you kiss lower and lower, anticipating what comes next. 

“Said I’d make it worth your while. And right now, I want to go down on my husband,” you rasp, your voice low and sultry as you drop to your knees. 

Carmy moans as soon as he feels your mouth on him, your tongue coming out just to taste the tip of him. His right hand tangles in your hair, beginning to grasp at the back of your head as he lets out a:

“Fuck.”

��——————————

Your vintage lace slip dress, plucked from the ground where it was carelessly thrown the night before, and Carmy’s denim jacket draped over your shoulders. 

That’s what he wakes up to, Carmy, your husband, as you climb back onto the bed, having left your brown paper bag filled with all kinds of goodies on the nightstand next to him. 

It may seem silly, bringing his denim jacket considering you barely planned on leaving the room, but he brought it for moments like this, when he knew you’d inevitably want to wear something of his while heading down to explore the rest of the hotel. 

“Think you’ll even need that?” you’d asked as you watched him pack his bag for this weekend. 

“Gotta be prepared, babe. You’ve been stealing my clothes since day one,” he had pointed out, making it clear that he was only packing options at this point. You’d giggled, making a comment about how considerate your then-husband-to-be was and a declaration that you were nothing if not consistent. 

“Good morning, my love,” you say as you climb onto the bed, settling at the foot. 

Carmy just smiles dreamily, his curls a wild, beautiful mess, as he sits up, reaching for your hands so that he can pull you over him. You smile, leaving a quick good morning kiss on his lips as you mutter something about morning breath. 

“Fuck off. You love me,” he teases in response, laying back down. 

“Fuck off. I do,” you parrot him, nodding happily, as you settle over him, straddling his hips. 

With your hands still in his, Carmy brings your conjoined hands up to his lips, leaving a kiss to each knuckle, his eyes fixed to yours, his focus unbroken. He smirks, seeing you in his denim jacket, just like he predicted. It looks damn good on you and there’s something so primal about the way he feels when you wear his clothes – the fact that you’d showcase to the world that you’re his stirs something inside of him that feels intoxicating.

“I went downstairs to the hotel cafe. Got a few pastries and coffee for us,” you say, as you run your hands up and down his chest. 

“Thanks, baby. But I’m not hungry yet,” Carmy replies, something in his voice that tells you he’s got something else in mind. You quirk an eyebrow in his direction, letting out a loud laugh as he flips you over, rolling you onto your back. 

“Think we should work up an appetite first.” 

“Again?” you giggle, heat pooling between your legs as you think of how he fucked you up against the bathroom counter last night – after you went down on him. 

Instead of answering, he captures your mouth with his, groaning into the kiss as he lays his body over yours. You could care less about the morning breath as Carmy winds you up with the way he kisses you, the way he touches you, and you’re sighing out in pleasure as his hand slips between your legs. 

“Jesus fucking Christ, baby,” he spits through gritted teeth, as soon as he realizes that you’re not wearing any underwear. 

“You go down to the cafe like this?”

You smirk, letting out a devious chuckle at his discovery. 

Before you can properly answer, Carmy’s fingers are dancing over your wet heat, earning well deserved gasps from you as you buck your hips into his hand, a sudden possessiveness taking over. 

“Fuck, Carm,” you groan, knowing exactly how to wind him up. “Yeah. Might have to punish me for it.”

“Think so, sweet girl,” Carmy mutters, before his mouth is on yours again. 

———————————

It’s your last night at the Langham hotel and you and Carmy have barely left your room – save for the trip to the pool downstairs. You find yourself curled up with your husband, your head buried in the book you're halfway through in a cozy silk PJ set as Carmy works on something else, a few pages deep into his new sketchbook. 

“How’s your book?” he asks, his focus still on the page before him. 

“Good,” you answer quietly, looking for a good place to pause. You look over at him, smiling as you notice the very cute face he makes when he’s concentrating. 

“Watcha workin’ on?” 

A light blush runs across Carmy’s cheeks as he prepares to show you. 

“Uh… just been sketchin’ up some ideas… you know. Ever since you asked about, you know… the tattoo,” Carmy answers, suddenly feeling shy about showing you his work. 

“Yeah?” you ask, only to be met with a nod as Carmy hands you the sketchbook. 

You take it, your eyes eagerly scanning the page, considering it’s the first time since you gave him the gift that he’s let you see anything he’s been working on. You smile, a look of awe in your eyes as you take in all of the little food-related tattoos that he’s drawn up. 

“I like this one,” you say, pointing to the nest of spaghetti he’s drawn, clearly meant to be a single portion of carbonara. “I mean, I like all of them… but I like this one.” 

“Yeah?” he asks, only a little surprised that you like any of them really. 

“Yeah,” you nod in response. You look down at his work, then back up to Carmy before gesturing towards the page. “May I?”

“Uh… sure,” he answers anxiously, the sound of the page turning only magnifying his nerves. 

He’s so incredibly talented that it hurts, and it’s not till you get back to the very first page, the one where he's drawn you in the bathtub that your heart stops. 

“Carmy,” you gasp, looking down at the sketch. 

“You hate it,” he’s quick to say, offering up a way out, almost too eager to beat you to the punch if that is how you feel. 

“Baby, of course I don’t hate it. I-,” you shake your head, marveling at the drawings below as you trace your fingers over the broader strokes of the pen. “It’s just… no one’s ever drawn me before so. I’m kind of… in awe right now.”

Carmy inhales, then lets out the breath on a deep exhale, because he’s drawn you before – considering he’s barely made time for his art in the last five years anyways – and that they just aren’t things he’s shown you yet. 

“What do you think?” is all he asks, his eyes searching your face for a reaction. 

“I think,” you say, returning his gaze with yours. You can tell that he’s nervous, that this feels extremely vulnerable, and you know exactly how to pivot. “... that you’re incredibly talented… and it’s really, really not fair.” 

He laughs. 

“I wouldn’t go that far,” he replies, brushing off the compliment. 

“No, I mean it, Bear,” you harp, making sure he hears you. 

“Okay,” he nods, and you know it’s the best you’re going to get when it comes to him accepting your compliment on the spot. 

You take a beat, before handing him his sketchbook back, returning your attention to your book as the two of you settle into a quiet rhythm of spending time with each other. This is exactly how you pictured this weekend going – spending time together, doing absolutely nothing, and fucking all day long. You’re not quite ready to go back to real life yet, but you also miss Aioli, and you know you and Carmy have another shot at this when you go on your real honeymoon in a few months. 

“Maybe I should bring this with me… you know… on our honeymoon part two,” Carmy says, gesturing towards his sketchbook. It warms your heart to see him so excited, so inspired and relaxed. 

“Definitely,” you reply with a smile. “Let’s do it all over again in a few months. When we go to Japan.”

“You wanna take a bath?” you ask, an implied, ‘you said you would join me’ in your voice as you ask the question. 

Carmy licks his lips, a small smile threatening the corners of his mouth as he answers, 

“Deal.”

[justalonelyslytherin]

Legacies | Eight

Previous Chapter | Masterlist | Next Chapter

Pairing: Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin x Kazansky!OC

Summary: .Ana is left reeling and coping with her father's diagnosis while the mission draws ever nearer. Will she be able to concentrate on the mission? Or will there be another curve ball throwing her off her path?

Warnings: military inaccuracies, lots of swearing, almost/mentioned physical fight and violence, mentions of dying and being killed, mentions of parental death/parental loss

Wordcount: 3k

If you enjoyed reading this, please consider leaving a comment or reblogging. I don’t allow for my content to be copied, translated, or reposted on other websites/apps. Please don’t steal my work.

A/N: This is a chapter I'm nervous about posting because you might hate me ^^'. Jake's an ass in this - which in my defense: I'm only using and enhancing what the movie provided us with. He'll also get his redemption & explanation of why he acts like that later on <;3

Taglist: open, message me or comment to be added, will be put as reblog

The menacing blare of the alarm rebounded in her ears even long after the actual noise had stopped. Yet the memory of it kept replaying in Ana’s mind over and over. She couldn’t shake it. Accompanying the noise were images of her simulation flight.

Her failure.

Because that’s how it had gone. She’d failed. Majorly. The curves had been too tight and her reactions just seconds too slow. There had been no other way but to swerve and dodge the oncoming – real – mountain she’d careened toward. In doing so she had crossed the mission's margin, climbing right into the SAMs radius.

She was angry at herself, mad she’d screwed it up so badly. Had it been only her attempt, she wouldn’t have minded it so much but she’d pulled Omaha and Halo into it as well. Which was so much worse. 

And while Ana was sure sweet Bob and fierce but equally uplifting Phoenix would have told her that anyone before her had failed their run-through as well, she didn’t want to hear it.

Even worse than the feeling of failure had been Maverick’s look of disappointment. Ana barely managed to look at him. While he hadn’t said anything that he hadn’t told the other aviators too, it felt much more personal. She’d glimpsed it in his eyes, there had been this unmistakable look. Remembering it made her sick to her stomach.

Knowing no one had managed to even reach the end of the course without crashing into a simulated mountainside or crossing into the SAMs range should have been a comfort, had it been true. But it wasn’t and the debrief would only solidify this.

The group of aviators was filing into the classroom to take their seats. Ana slowly trudged along the gaggle of people, nowhere near paying attention. She felt weary with her shoulders hanging low, every other step careened dangerously outward to the side in an almost stumble.

If it had been only the training with its demanding parameters and exhausting conditions, she would have been able to stomach it but there was one more thing: Her father’s condition. 

The news heavily weighed her down. She couldn’t help but worry and it was this incessant worrying that distracted her from the fast-approaching mission. 

Her father seemed to have come to terms with his imminent passing but Ana had a hard time accepting that this would be the end. How was one supposed to be alright knowing their loved one’s time was limited and the end was rapidly approaching?

She could barely handle the thought. The news had thrown her into a deep and dark pit of despair, leaving her lost.

Surprise crossed her face and her head snapped up when a hand connected with the small of her back, gently guiding her forward and past the rows of chairs. Glancing to the side revealed none other than Jake steering her intently toward the first row. She let him lead her, her dragging feet slowly picking up speed to match his. 

At the front row, he nudged her toward the chairs. Patiently Jake waited until she sat down in the aisle seat before he took the one beside her. He didn’t say anything, in fact, he didn’t even look at her anymore. She understood the gesture nevertheless. She was thankful for it.

While he was still Hangman, and he made sure she didn’t forget it during work, something between them had shifted. 

He was the only one that knew. Not even Bradley knew and they were like siblings. She couldn’t tell Rooster and neither could she tell Maverick. They were too involved, too close. They couldn’t be thrown off their paths as well. At least they should be able to concentrate on the mission ahead.

Yet it still was a relief to have someone know. It made it easier to act like everything was alright in front of the others.

—

Maverick didn’t waste any time ripping into Rooster who had just finished his simulation run. Their run distinguished itself from the others in one detail. Even if Maverick was keen on ignoring it. 

Harvard and Yale had accompanied him but nonetheless Maverick singled Bradley out.

“Why are you dead?” He asked Rooster as the young aviator sat up in his chair and looked straight ahead toward their instructor. 

Out of the corner of her eye, Ana could see him build himself up, ready to take on everything that Maverick would throw in his face. She hoped they wouldn’t goad each other up again as they had done during the dogfight.

“You are team leader up there. Why are you– why is your team dead?”

It wasn’t Rooster that spoke up but Phoenix. She sat beside Ana on the opposite side of the center aisle. Most of the aviators had been sitting passively in their chairs, waiting for Maverick’s rant to pass and so had she done it. But now, with her fist previously hiding her frown the dark-haired female aviator couldn’t stay still anymore.

“Sir, he’s the only one who made it to target.” 

And this was the one detail that distinguished Rooster from all the other aviators gathered in the room. He had reached the end of their simulation. He had reached their target.

“A minute late,” Maverick noted with a sigh, biting on no less harshly than before, “He gave enemy aircraft time to shoot him down. He is dead.” 

Ana knew why her godfather critiqued him so harshly. The mission was dangerous as it is, risking a confrontation with enemy aircraft was something they couldn’t afford. No matter what had happened between them, Maverick still cared for Rooster. Perhaps even more so because of what happened.

“You don’t know that.”

Rooster couldn’t see it. He couldn’t see that Mavericks' much harsher treatment towards him wasn’t because of any ill feelings from their instructor but because of his incessant need to keep him safe. Bradley would never want it, he would never allow Maverick to protect him – not after what had happened – but that wouldn’t stop their superior from trying to do so either way. 

“You’re not flying fast enough,” Hangman sounded condescending as he butted in, barely glancing at Rooster one row behind Phoenix. 

It was a quick defiant look, one that cemented itself on Rooster’s face as he turned back to Maverick and reiterated,

“We made it to the target.” It was a clear dig, a bone thrown out for the feral dog.

And Maverick took it without hesitancy. He was slowly getting fed up, perhaps it was the intense need to keep Bradley safe that spurred him on. Taking a step toward the aviators, he leaned forward. His stern look centered on Rooster alone.

“And superior enemy aircraft intercepted you on your way out.”

There was no way Rooster would be backing down. Ana realized how quickly this was leading up to another fight between the two. One that was far more personal than the discussion of the flight simulation. There was a heavy insinuation underlining their words. 

“Then it’s a dogfight.” Rooster blew the last straw to crush Maverick’s composure.

“Against fifth-generation fighters!” 

"Yeah. We’d still have a chance.” It surprised Ana how relaxed Rooster’s words were. She knew that behind his laid-back attitude, his insides were bubbling with hurt and anger.

Able to feel the tension having almost reached its peak between the duo the other aviators in the room looked away, uncomfortable with the situation at hand. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Phoenix pursing her lips as she looked down to avoid the men’s argument she was pinned between.

“In an F-18,” Maverick’s voice was full of skepticism, and without knowing he had raised his voice. Rooster followed, his voice growing in volume and bite.

“It’s not the plane, sir, it’s the pilot.” Ana closed her eyes and pressed her lips together as much as she could. She knew where this was heading and she dreaded all of it.

“Exactly.”

Maverick’s single word rebounded through the room, suddenly cloaked in silence. Everyone held their breaths. 

Now the bomb had been dropped. The damage was done and irreversible.

“There’s more than one way to fly this mission.”

It was a weak attempt of Rooster to have the last word. Maverick’s assertion had him, judging from the distinct waiver of his voice that made Ana’s heart clench. She hurt for both of them, she hurt for them hurting – and they definitely were, as their faces were barely hiding the guilt and hurt. She felt powerless to change the outcome or their stances. From the beginning, there had been nothing she could have done to aid them in conciliating, even if she longed for the ability to do so.

“You really don’t get it.”

Her eyes jumped to the other side. Jake was looking forward neither toward Rooster nor Maverick. He sounded relaxed like the tension in the air didn’t affect him at all.

“Jake,” was her warning for him to not get involved and make it worse. 

“On this mission, a man flies like Maverick here or a man does not come back.” Now he eyed Maverick. Silently Jake took in the guilt-stricken face of their instructor. Did he enjoy it? 

Just like Ana, Jake knew there was more to this than the discussion of technique applied to the mission. It was so much more than that.

To diffuse the moment, or to add more fuel to the already stoked fire, Jake turned towards Phoenix, “No offense intended.” 

Bob, who sat beside Phoenix and consequently peered behind her to glare at the blonde, murmured with an acidity Ana had never heard from the otherwise shy and quiet aviator, “Yet somehow you always manage.” 

Her heartbeat picked up as everything loomed to spin out of control. Jake’s lips quipped upwards as he turned to her, no not to her, to Rooster. 

“Jake.” Once more Ana hoped to stop him, to get him to focus on her instead of adding insult to the situation. And once more her attempt fell on deaf ears.

“Look, I don’t mean to criticize. You’re conservative, that’s all.” Ana glanced towards Maverick, hoping he would be able to stop the blonde. But her godfather had his eyes cast toward the ground.

“Lieutenant,” with a  weary sigh he looked up. But Jake didn’t listen even to their instructor at that moment. 

“We’re going into combat, son, on a level no livin’ pilot’s ever seen,” now he looked back, directly at Maverick and added, “Not even him.”

Maverick looked at Jake both surprised and caught off guard by the direct hit of the young pilot.

“That’s no time to be thinking about the past.” 

Ana’s blood ran cold. A chill crept over her back as her head snapped towards Hangman at her side. There was a deep etched frown on her face as she eyed him. He couldn’t. He wouldn’t. Would he? 

“Don’t do this,” Ana pleaded – begged? – for him to stop, her fingers dug into the plush armrests of the chair. 

He wouldn’t listen. 

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Rooster,” Maverick, sensing where this was going to go, tried to pull Rooster’s attention back on him.

“I can’t be the only one that knows Maverick flew with his old man.” Ana sat up straighter in her chair. A cold feeling of dread washed over her. She knew exactly what Hangman was playing at, what he was about to do – to say. 

“That’s enough–” It was one more fickle attempt by Maverick to stop the inevitable. 

“–or that Maverick was flying when his old man–” before Hangman could finish the sentence Rooster had sprung from his chair and charged across the room. 

Chaos broke out in the room, clamoring and shouts filled the space as everyone raced to go in between the two men. In a matter of seconds, everyone had clumped around the two, multiple hands were pulling Rooster back as he was seething.

“Lieutenant, that's enough. Hey!” Maverick shouted over everyone, as their frantic voices had mixed into an indistinguishable mess. Rooster was hellbent on ripping himself free and physically fighting Hangman. He could be barely stopped.

Ana had never seen the man this crazed and out of his mind. It unsettled her as she practically stood between the two fractions. Sitting before Hangman, closer to the middle aisle, she’d put herself between the two of them upon standing up. Now she had one hand firmly pressed against Hangman’s chest to keep him back and out of reach and one hand stretched out towards Rooster.

“Bradley!” Even her voice couldn’t carry through to him, no matter how alarmed and warning she sounded, he was too blindsided by his rage.

“You son of a bitch!” His enraged shout trumped over them all. While Bradley was out for blood, Hangman on the other hand was calm as one could be. 

He shrugged off the multiple hands on him with a simple, “I’m cool, I’m cool. Hey.” All except for Ana’s hand. She was quicker than him in slapping his hand away and followed the motion up with a hard shove against his sternum. 

“That’s enough,” Maverick demanded, still mostly concentrating on Rooster. Ana kept glaring at Hangman. He didn’t spare her even one glance. She was fuming, silently willing him to finally keep quiet but of course he couldn’t.

“He’s not cut out for this mission.” With that Hangman pulled everyone’s attention back towards him, just as Rooster seemed to have calmed down enough to not jump the blonde any moment.

“And neither are you.” Ana’s cold, shaky words cut through the air. “You are even less cut out for the mission,” she jabbed, taking a step closer to the blonde. Her finger bore square into his chest.

“You have no concept of teamwork. You don’t know how to play nice or work together with someone. How the hell do you think you are anywhere close to being cut out for this mission when you could be the reason all of us wouldn’t make it back.

Leaving your team behind is as bad as being too hesitant.

I’m not going to watch you kill yourself up there because you can’t work with someone else for once.

Nor am I going to watch you be the reason one of us won’t make it back home.”

The words poured out of her one after another, each sentence more stinging, more personal, and more damaging. Hangman’s facade was a strong one but his eyes betrayed him. Too bad that in her own whirling, burning rage Ana couldn’t see. The hurt that flashed through his eyes, the quick breakthrough of Jake was entirely unnoticed by her. Much like the other aviator's reactions all around her.

Barely having said the last words and with her chest still heaving from both the exertion and the adrenaline of the moment, she turned around. There was not one person that didn’t step out of her path as she stormed off, down the middle aisle and right out of the room.

As if nothing happened just now, Hangman acted indifferent as he stepped forward. 

“You know I’m right.” 

His focus shifted only briefly to Maverick before he eyed up Rooster once more. Stepping nose to nose with the brown-haired male Hangman slipped past, waltzing out of the classroom in a much more relaxed way. 

Neither Ana nor Hangman were left when Maverick dismissed the rest of the group.

Ana was on her way storming through the hallway, less angry but still fuming. Her boots thudded against the floor in quick succession. She couldn’t put enough distance between herself and the classroom fast enough. Unbeknownst to her, Hangman was in close pursuit, quickly catching up to her breezing through the halls. 

“Ghost.” His voice was like an electric current shooting through her. A thousand tiny knives nicked her skin, agitating her further. 

“Ana!” She’d never heard him call her by her name before. Now it sounded urgent and too close for her comfort. 

In a matter of seconds, a hand wrapped around her biceps and pulled her back. Her back collided with the wall with a soft thud. Before she could even react, Hangman had caged her in with his arms, looming over her. He was so close that their noses nearly touched.

“Fuck off,” she hissed between bared teeth, glaring at him with as much venom as she could. He wouldn’t budge.

“You are lower than the lowest scum, do you know that? Bringing this up and using it against him! How dare you?”

“I only stated facts.” The calm, stern way in which he spoke with her frustrated her. There was the cold, emotionless mask that was Hangman. He was guarded and entirely closed off. 

“Yeah, right,” Ana scoffed.

“He wasn’t ready and you know it too.”

“Just like everyone else! None of us are ready for this mission and yet Rooster still has the best shot at surviving the flight to the target. And it gives you no reason to bring up their past!”

“It does if–” 

“–Oh cut the crap, Hangman. I don’t want to hear it!” She didn’t want to hear his excuses and even less so his twisted explanations. What could make him think it was okay to say something like that? Done listening to him and even more so done with being in his proximity, Ana shoved him off her. Hangman went pliantly, his feet shuffled backward as she freed herself from the corner he’d created with his body. 

She glared at him furiously once more, her intensity beginning to fray at the edges. Finding herself locked in a staredown with Hangman, the tension felt higher than even before in the room. Scoffing one last time Ana shook her head and ultimately turned around to march off down the corridor.

There was nothing that could turn the situation around at that moment. Nothing could make it better. The best way was to create distance. Between her and him.

Hangman remained standing in the hallway, hands balled into fists and face twisted into an angry sneer. 

“Damnit,” he roared, punching the wall beside him. His muscles were tense as he ground his teeth together. 

“It does count if it is what holds them back and distracts them from the mission.”

[shininglynxie]

Alright, the 5yl motion comic's new chapter just came out, and it was absolutely INCREDIBLE! I want to share my thoughts and observations with you because I have a lot of them. I know this isn't exactly a topic I covered here and that most people who follow me would be familiar with, but I absolutely love 5yl, and I really wanna talk about this incredible series!

Spoilers for 5 years later, its 11th chapter specifically, below. Go watch it here first, or read my whole post. Maybe I'll convince you to watch the whole thing.

Sorry for the weird crunchy collage images. I needed more than ten images to illustrate my points, so I had to compromise.

As usual, the motion comic manages to enhance the original comic version with the voice acting and other visual additions. Rob's direction and animation work, his and Crystal's visual effects, Noximation's score and everyone's voice acting under the direction of Xander and Kellen are all amazing and on point, as always!

I like the little changes they did to the intro with this and the last episode, too! It makes me feel like I'm watching a TV series with an evolving plot. Really reminds me of watching Omniverse as a kid with all its altering intros. I absolutely love this detail!

I don't know if that happens in the og chapter, but I like that the fact that Portaler was able to warp from Divinity's hold is emphasized here. Hell, Ben even acknowledges this feat himself in the very next scene. This, along with his ability to create unstable wormholes, as showcased in the previous episode, really showcases why Ben put Portaler in the powerhouse playlist. Which is a really important detail to set up, as this is an alien we've never seen before and don't know what he's truly capable of.

Seeing The Void animated was really cool! I'm not sure how this was done in the original comic, but I love the sheer sense of scale they showcase in the top scene here! It really emphasizes how absolutely massive thus alien is! I also love the twisting effect they gave to his dark matter when it's absorbing Big Ben's arm! It's just like I imagined it!

After watching this episode, I realized that I didn't really remember this scene at all from the time I read this comic. I'm glad I was able to properly appreciate it now, as it's quite a nice scene.

What Future Fenton says here is interesting. Obviously, their goal is to help Ben and Danny take down Divinity to rewrite the awful future they come from. With this outcome resulting in Future Fenton's erasure from existence. According to this plan, their fate is predetermined. Or is it? It just makes me wonder what will happen next. Btw, Rob has been absolutely killing it as Future Fenton! He isn't really a voice actor, and he's pulling off some very clean line deliveries! It must be some solid voice direction on Xander's and Kellen's parts!

I really like the exchange that Lula, GoTro, and Crawnch have here. It's a nice scene for them. I like that they discuss their reasons for being plumbers, have a bit of an argument, and in the end decide to help Ben. I like how this scene showcases their characters.

This scene also gave us some incredible surprises!

Just like with the revamped Albedo's ultimates sequence in episode 8, they decided to give us an unnecessary but very welcome Ben 10-themed surprise with all these omni-chimeras. I'd love to break these designs down, but I fear it would be adding way too much text to an already long post. I might do a breakdown of their designs a separate post later. Omni-chimeras are one of the funnest concepts to come out of 5yl, in my opinion, and this scene is definitely making me want to draw some.

I also wasn't expecting to get such a glimpse into the time Future Fenton came from. It seemed to me that Rob wanted to keep their future ambiguous and shrouded in mystery. I love Vlad's tastefully extra ruler outfit with that elegant black and red color scheme and the flaming ctown. (Also, I like how Divinity's outfit references future events)

Getting all these other crossover cameos in such a substantial way is pretty crazy! Especially crazy is the fact that we got proper non-silhouetted cameos of Rex and his brother Caesar, too! The fans have been asking for this for so long, so it's a little hard to believe that their pleas have finally been answered.

Not pictured here, but I love that we get a look at the complete Orion Knight. From what I remember, either the original description of the incomplete Orion Knight concept art on The Ink Tank's website said something about us, maybe, seeing the complete one someday or it was Rob who said it on a stream once. So, this kinda leaves wondering if it was a tease for the motion comic or something else that's still coming later.

A small yet neat detail I noticed here is that Big Ben shoots a strong sonic blast from his Stick n' Slide leg, which matches that alien's abilities. I'm pretty that wasn't in the original chapter, so it's really cool to see!

Now, Full Stop. It was awesome to finally see this fan-favourite alien in motion comic format. I like Aj Beckles' performance for Full Stop! t gives him a very appropriate cool guy vibe. I like how well his powers were showcased here. Everything he holds truly comes to a complete halt. It's great!

Danny's "nightmare sequence" is what i was excited for the most, and I had every right to be. It was AMAZING! The motion comic brought it to a whole new level!

The transition into it was perfect! The drowning that fades into a jarring awakening. It's so good! But it keeps getting better! The beginning of the sequence was also very well done! That part in the og comic wasn't that great, and I always thought it would be better with proper voice acting, and I was totally right about that! Now, I'm not a Danny Phantom fan, but I assume that there were now heart-to-heart reconciliation scenes between Danny and his dad like here in the actual show. I think the fans might appreciate a scene like that, and it's a very nice and tender one in general. I absolutely loved seeing Ash's nightmare Jack creature animated! The zombie Sam scene was so nicely done, too! It was gross eerie in the best way possible! Paxton's delivery during the Ben part was stellar, too! Also, fun fact, but all the aliens Ben erupts into here are ones that Danny had actually seen Ben had used so far. On the topic of voice acting, it was absolutely on point for this entire scene! It truly elevated it to a whole new level! Can you tell that this is my favourite part? Anyways, moving on.

I don't think this scene was in the original comic. I really like it, though! This is some real funny banter between Vlad and Ben!

I absolutely love how Fury Danny's emergence was handled here. I don't remember if those Orion Squad lines on top were there in the og, but regardless, they really helped establish the insane speed at which Danny was flying here. His sheer new might is conveyed perfectly here! That ending scene was perfect, too! The line delivery was very on point once again! This solidifies it as a perfect spot to end this chapter on for me!

Whew. That was probably the longest I've rambled about anything here so far. I just can't help but gush about this project sometimes. I just love it so much, and The Ink Tank always does such a great job with it and their other projects, too! All in all, after all this, I'm extremely excited for episode 12 and the two final chapters! I know, It's going to be something spectacular!

[themirokai]

I did my at-least-annual tradition of making my family’s chicken soup recipe on Sunday, and I took process photos, so I thought I’d share. Here’s what I have written down but for all its vagueness it’s still not accurate.

I think every generation has modified some stuff about the process and tweaked it for their particular tastes.

Instead of using a whole chicken, I use a split chicken breast (2 halves) plus a pack of chicken thighs (4). I like this better because the ratio of meat to fiddly bits is better and Surfski likes CHICKEN soup (lots of chicken per bowl). You could easily use half a breast or one or two fewer thighs, but I think the mix of white and dark meat is important for flavor.

Next is something I added to the recipe after reading Salt Fat Acid Heat. I salt my raw chicken and let it sit out for at least half an hour before I put it in the water. I think this helps the chicken hold flavor through the cooking.

While the chicken is sitting (so a change from the order of the recipe) I chop a large sweet onion plus the carrots, celery, and parsnips. I think I used 5 skinny stalks of celery, 4 carrots and 5 parsnips, but especially given the size variability you’ve got to judge this based on vibes. How much of each vegetable does your heart tell you that you need in your soup? The one exception to this is if you are not familiar with parsnips and you are considering skimping on them or leaving them out. That is not your heart. That is the devil and you must resist. Trust me on this and use about as many parsnips as carrots.

The next step was added by my great aunt who was a genius in the kitchen (also very good at refurbishing antiques but that’s less relevant). You heat up some butter and olive oil and sautee your vegetables in it. Yes it makes another pan to clean but it’s completely worth it. You don’t cook it for long! Just until the carrots and celery get bright and the onion is just starting to get translucent and everything is a tiny bit soft.

Ok, set the veg aside but I highly recommend snacking on some of the parsnips at this point. Every time I make chicken soup it always makes me want to make roast parsnips and I always forget when I’m meal planning.

Next it’s chicken time! Load your chicken into a big heavy pot and cover it with water. I just barely cover it because I’m going to need room for lots of veg.

Put that on your biggest burner and boil it. It will take a while to come up to a good boil. Once it’s boiling it will start to foam. This stuff.

Ick. Skim that off and throw it away.

Now, when the foaming is done, turn down the heat and dump in your veg. Mix it all in there then put your bunch of dill on top. Make sure you take off the twist tie or anything else holding the dill together.

My mom added this next step which she got from a friend of hers. It’s this shit called Better Than Bouillon.

You can use the plain chicken variety. Roast chicken is just what my grocery store had. I’m not 100% sure what it is but it really does add gorgeous flavor to the soup. I put one big spoonful in a big pot. This is what it looks like out of the jar.

Now you let everything cook together until the chicken is cooked. How long will that take? 🤷🏻‍♀️ Depends on the size of your chicken pieces and how high you have the heat, etc. When you think it might be done, pull out your biggest piece of chicken and poke it. It should be white and firm. If it is, pull the rest of the chicken out too and turn the heat way down but leave the veg and the dill in to simmer.

Now you walk away. Go scroll tumblr. Read a chapter of a book. Draw something. But you gotta let the chicken cool down.

Why? Because you’re going to shred that with your fingers and you don’t want to burn your fingerprints off. Or maybe you do. I don’t know your life.

Anyway, this is a good spot for me to stop and hit post because I’m on mobile and I’ll run up against the 10 image limit.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this so far! The rest of the recipe and the end product will be in a reblog.

[sure-to-lure-someone-bad]

Do y'all ever remember that we only have Luffy's backstory starting at 7 years old? What was he doing before Shanks? Where was he living? Who is his mom? Where is she? Did he have any friends? Why is he so scared of being alone?

Theory and analysis under the cut

Like, I think about that scene after Ace and Sabo had saved him from Blue Jam's lackeys a lot. Ace asks why Luffy wants to be his friend so bad and Luffy says that being alone is worse than being hurt. That's a child speaking from experience.

I also think about that scene in Chapter 137 where Luffy saves the parent of the baby Lapin even though it had almost killed him and two of his crew.

Maybe this was just showcasing how merciful and kind Luffy can be, but I don't think so. I think, in that moment, Luffy was relating to the baby Lapin. I think Oda was drawing a direct parallel to something Luffy may have experienced as a child, basically giving us a hint to more of Luffy's past. I'm not sure if it was his birth mom or a caregiver, but I think Luffy has been in a situation where a parental figure died because no one was around to help them and Luffy was too young and weak to save them.

I feel like this explains the shadowed eyes in the image. We've seen Luffy save many previous enemies without the indication that Luffy is so personally affected. I could believe that it's because he's worried about his crew, but in the next scene he has a serious expression that would've been plenty fitting on pulling up the Lapin. Maybe I'm overthinking, but I truly think there's more than concern for his crew or anger at the Lapins affecting him here.

On top of that, Luffy having a traumatic experience as a young child where he felt helpless would follow a recurring theme in his character arc. We've seen Luffy at three of his lowest points in the manga where he has been too weak to protect his loved ones.

First, chronologically, was Sabo.

Luffy has always been a passionate kid, so maybe this is his first experience with loss, but I don't think so. This seems like a reaction to feeling like being too weak to save his loved ones is a pattern. Most kids Luffy's age have a hard time grasping death. They might know that it's not a good thing, but most don't understand exactly what it means. It might be different for him because he has been around Grey Terminal, but I doubt it. Yet, he knew instantly what Dogura was saying and what it meant. There was barely a period of shock or denial.

Luffy is experiencing grief at a level of intensity that fits more with someone who knows exactly what death is. I really don't believe that this is his first time losing someone.

Second was being unable to protect his crew from Kuma.

The phrase "What's wrong with me...?!" really stands out to me here. Luffy definitely takes his role as captain seriously and knows that it's his duty to protect his crew, but we know this self-blame is also influenced by the reopening an old wound. He has worked hard for a decade to make sure he was strong enough to protect his people, and here he has failed once again.

Finally, third is the loss of his other older brother, Ace.

This, of course, led to the two year break where Luffy and his crew focused on training and becoming stronger to take on the New World. I would also like to point out that Luffy didn't emotionally stabilize until Jimbe reminded him that he still has his crew. He was grieving his brother, dealing with a sense of helplessness, and feeling alone in the world. Garp may be Luffy's grandfather, but he obviously neglected Luffy. The bandits might have grown on Luffy by the time he set sail, but I don't think Luffy considered them family in the same way as Ace and Sabo. Ace and Sabo were the only family he had until he met his crew. This isn't the grief of someone with a support network and people to motivate him. In this moment, and in all of the time since deciding to go after Ace, Luffy has pushed his nakama out of his mind. This is the grief of someone who has been too weak and feels like there's no one left to even try to protect. Someone all alone.

Luffy's character is one who's weaknesses are loneliness and helplessness, and that implies a lot about his developmental years. I truly believe that Luffy's backstory will involve the death of a parental figure. I also think that Garp either was even more neglectful than we realize or didn't know Luffy existed until he found out through Dragon.

I also think that Luffy's longing for freedom will also tie in somehow. We know he and no one who knew him as a child was a slave for the Celestial Dragons because he didn't recognize the symbol on Hancock, but maybe there was a nami and arlong-esque situation.

I'm so desperate for his backstory 24/7 lmao.

[psychedelic-ink]

This is the artwork that I commissioned from the talented @mjpens🧡

Stay In Bed has truly been one of my favorite things to write, I am genuinely so emotional over this series and my own relationship with it. I'm still surprised by the feedback and the love, so I would also want to thank everyone for their undying support and enthusiasm for it 🧡🧡🧡

This is from one of the scenes I wrote for chapter 6 and I can't stop staring at it. Thank you Maia for making this come to life, this made me beyond happy 🥺🧡

(I would also like to emphasize that in the story reader does not have a physical description whatsoever. I went the self-indulgent route and asked for it to be a self-insert <3)

the written scene is below the cut for those who are curious 🤭

“How do you like your coffee?” 

“With milk,” you answer. “A lot of it, preferably.” 

“So milk with a dash of coffee,” he grins, amused. “Got it.” 

It’s been a couple of days since you moved in with Joel and Sarah. It was much easier to live with the father-daughter due than you initially had thought. Tommy came over in the mornings, dropping you off to work and Sarah to school, and the brothers went to do their own thing after that. 

With Joel’s back turned to you, you look down at your sketchbook and add another line to what is supposed to be his unruly hair. He really needs a haircut. 

Surprisingly living with him isn’t weird at all. He made you feel welcome. No awkward glances, no awkward touching. Just neighbors helping each other out. He places the steaming mug next to you and leans on his elbows. He looks at what you’re drawing and raises an eyebrow. 

Joel brings the mug to his lips. 

“You’re paintin’ me?” 

“I’m sketching you,” you answer. “You’re a lovely specimen.” 

“Is that so.” 

The scent of coffee fills your lungs. Lifting your gaze, you observe his facial structures. You see the imperfections, take in the sight of his eyes, his bushy eyebrows, and the bald patches in his beard. You want to touch the small beauty park right in the corner of his eye that’s impossible to see unless you’re an inch further away. 

 If he knew how you saw him—if he knew how big he was in your mind— Joel would be terrified. 

“Do you like art?” you ask, taking him by surprise. He takes a sip of his coffee and your gaze drops back to your sketch.  

He hums, fingers thrumming the kitchen counter. “I like your art.” 

“I should take you guys to an art gallery or something,” you say, smiling. “If you like mine, you’re going to go nuts over the things that are out there.” 

Joel pouts and you roll your eyes. “What are you looking at me like that for?” you ask.

“I like your drawings. They’re—They feel close. I don’t know how else to describe it.” 

It’s because it’s you who I think of when I create them. 

“Do you know Salvador Dali?” you ask, then quickly add. “Or Dorothea Tanning?” 

“Sweetheart, the only artist I know is Da Vinci and I’m not even a hundred percent sure he is one.” 

“He is,” you affirm him excitedly, looking back up. “I love surrealism. It’s when everything gets really weird basically. So—wait let me show you. I think I have a couple of pictures between the pages.” 

You miss the way Joel’s lips slowly curl up, adoration and fondness adorning his face, softening the edges. He comes closer. Your pulse quickens as your fingers rush to find the images, and when they do you basically rip them out from between the pages 

“Look.” 

All of them are images from Dali’s artwork. Mainly butterflies. Joel observes them carefully, touching them as if fearing he might stain them. You urge him to take a closer look by placing one between his thick fingers. It’s The Butterfly Rose. 

“Never thought you would do homework for a hobby.” 

“It’s not—” You let out an exasperated sigh, cutting yourself off mid-sentence. “Do you think I want to work at the coffee house forever? It’s not just a hobby. And of course, as an artist, I look at other art to be inspired. They make me feel things.” Seeing the startled expression on his face, you add, “Don’t you get like…shivers or something when you see a very nice wooden table?”

Oh, you made him uncomfortable. You sense that in an instant. His fingers trace the image of the painting, looking down, you notice the crease between his brows deepening with concentration. Was he concentrating on the image? In your words? You have no idea—the only thing you know is that this man concentrating on art is making your insides clench with a need. 

“Sorry,” he grumbles. “I didn’t mean it like that. I do think you’re a serious artist. It’s just…fuck that came out wrong. I just didn’t think you would put in this much effort to somethin’ I said,” he shakes his head. “Shit, I’m bad at this.” 

That undeniable need to touch him comes rushing back. You bite the inside of your bottom lip instead. “ I think I might’ve overreacted after hearing the same thing from my brother all the time. It’s all good. You might be the only one that takes me seriously so it was unfair for me to jump to conclusions like that.” 

“He don’t support you?” 

“He does…” you trail off. “In his own way, I guess.” 

“That doesn’t sound like support,” he answers, clicking his tongue. “And just FYI I like your butterflies better, sweet tea.” 

“Sweet tea?” you ask, lips curling with amusement and eyes widening with shock. 

He shrugs. “You said you liked Dorothea…somethin’---” 

“Tanning.” you quickly say. “So Sweet Tea as in…the last syllable of her name?” 

“Would you rather I call you Tea?” he asks, raising an eyebrow. 

“Nope!” you grin, your heart elevated. “Sweet Tea is perfect.” 

With a soft smile, Joel places the picture in front of you and gently taps on it. 

“Well then, Sweet Tea,” he says. “Tell me more about this surrealism thing.” 

[thoughtfullyrainynightmare]

I know you've said you don't have many thoughts about Revchi but I just wanted someone to rant to since that's apparently what we're doing now and your takes are indeed excellent (shout-out to Neige anon)

I genuinely think he must carry a lot sadness and trauma, that he closed his heart so much. When Gueldre said that all the other Purple Orcas hated him and that's why no one took his side when he got set up, he didn't even deny it or even react. For some reason he won't allow himself to open up to others even when he had the opportunity to make friends. That's totally unhealthy (honestly, the other Purple Orcas probably couldn't be counted on anyway since from what little we see of them, they're the BC equivalent of dirty cops).

I don't know how to word it but there's something so sad about him. He reminds me a bit of Zora in a way, like they both hide their inner pain with cynicism and snark. How he calls himself "just a wretched thief" in the first chapter, the way he somewhat hides his scar with his hair, even the way his speech bubbles are drawn all wobbly??? Someone get that man into therapy asap please

On an unrelated sidenote you've actually made me appreciate Fuegoleon, believe it or not. I used to not care about him at all but now I like him a lot lol

I mean "not having a lot of thoughts" is always relative too. Like, I ended up writing quite a lot for Revchi in that one ask game, which surprised even me. So it seems I had more thoughts than what I thought, but I still don't think it's comparatively a lot if we take into account other characters.

Plus, now that my exams, and this semester are finally over, I have the next three weeks time to do nothing and sleep. Instead of having my braincells running study stuff in the background on an pinned tab, which might affect how many thoughts I have to spare for the fandom. Also, I like having interactions, even if they might be people feeling frustrated over how unloved their borbo is. (Again, as long as it's like constructive; a mandatory side note, because it's a public blog) I know that everyone doesn't want to interact in the comment section or via reblogs, because they don't want to draw that attention to their blogs, which is fine. But these interactions make me feels less like I'm shouting to the wind, and are evoking my love for the fandom again. And I think that the best way to learn to appreciate and get insight of a character is to talk to someone who likes said character (as long as they haven't like... made the character into pretty much just an oc with the same name, y'know the type and issue generally speaking; it happens in every fandom)

ANYWAYS, back on track and to Revchi

I think there are a lot of characters in BC that do that. Close their emotions because showing emotions isn't... allowed in a lot of circles in BC. Just today in our BC dnd campaign we basically concluded "the Magic Parliament, where justice is scrapped and public image is all that matters; welcome to the heart of Clover Kingdom".

Who knows what happened that caused Revchi to get hated like that, but I'd say that when someone is staged for a crime, there is a good chance that they stood in the way of those who ended up setting said person up. So, it's perfectly possible that Revchi was a "good cop among bad ones" and ended up getting hated and isolated by that, probably along with a lot of other things, that essentially just broke his spirit, and caused him to spiral into a "...if being a wretched thief is what's right in this kingdom, I guess that's what I'll be then" or even "they call me as a wretched thief, so I'll show them one". Which is a kind of a call for help, in a way. The man was spiralling. And when he starts to live up to the rumours, and the reason why he was dismissed, he's not doing any favours for himself, but by then he was beyond caring about it.

Why he won't open up, could be a case of being stabbed in the back, figuratively. So, maybe he trusted someone in that squad, maybe even went to Gueldre, thinking that he could trust a Captain of Clover Kingdom, and Gueldre just threw him to the wolves. I mean... if that doesn't shake your belief into the justice system of Clover, what would?

There is a tragedy in there. He's just a guy who tried to do good (as a headcanon, because all of this is purely speculation ofc), and ended up thrown into the mud.

He doesn't believe in goodness of the world anymore. Or that there can be such a thing as "justice" in Clover. Which is very similar as to what Zora feels. Actually. For Zora it's just about what happened to his dad, and for Revchi it's about what happened to him.

I imagine the wobbly speech bubbles to be a kind of a voice cracking up. Because, deep down, he didn't want to do what he did. But he was in too deep in his own head, the cynicism. Because no one would care. It wasn't the kind of a world where people would care, in his mind. The line between a hardened criminal and a knight was a line drawn in sand on a beach.

Who knows, maybe he even thought that stealing a couple of grimoires and selling them in the black market might earn him the trust of the Orcas again. Revchi just might be yet another character that Clover Kingdom failed.

[rudycomics]

Over the past few months I've buckled down to take The Red Muscle more seriously in a lot of ways: I've been writing upcoming chapters which made me see big holes in character development with little options to explore, but at the same time I've also been printing physical copies of the comic to sell in person and the opportunity presented itself to go back and make changes to old chapters and improve the story.

At first, I redrew chapter 1 a while ago for print because the original drawings were SO rough. When the next convention was coming up I felt like I should do the same treatment for ch2 and now I'm kind of steamrolling through and really crystallizing the ideas I wanted to explore with Red Muscle. It's also really rewarding to see just how much I've learned about making good comic pages when I get to redraw old ones I wasn't satisfied with. Above is the first page of the new Chapter 2 (first image) compared to the the original page from 2017, as an example.

I mostly wanted to make this post to talk about my plans for the comic going forward. I don't plan on redrawing ALL the chapters (We're going to stop at ch5 I believe), but want you to think of this as a sort of Director's Cut or like a soft restart of the comic. I think enough will change in these first 5 chapters that will make it a much more competent and compelling story, as I lean in more on Scarlet and Edgar's relationship and their little slice of life moments. I think I want to restart the tapas drip feed with the updated pages starting from chapter 2, so hopefully I can get people excited about it again since it's been so long since I last had NEW chapters (I will be working on fixing the tapas feed all day, it might take a while and pardon any changes that happen while you're reading it on there). I will keep the old PDFs up on itch.io for posterity, you'll get them as a bonus when you buy the new PDFs.

I say all of this basically because I want to talk about chapters 3 and 4 which I'm working on right now and I'm so excited for the ways the story has improved and I REALLY WANT YOU ALL TO READ MY COMIC!!! I think I'm doing something really fun, cute, and emotionally developed and I hope I can convince you to check out my comic because it's been meaning more and more to me over the years.

PDFs are available for purchase on itch.io and you can read it for FREE webcomic style on tapas.io, thanks!

[tophattrio]

TOP HAT TRIO ARCHIVES: Part 1

Warden: Look at all this lovely art of us! We could fill a museum! Professor: There's so much it seems like we can't keep up... Once-ler: ..... Y'kno what guys? I'm gonna take a break...

((A small fraction of my old old old trio art, most of which has never seen the light of tumblr (under the cut)! None of this is colored. Some of this is pre-blog or just... REALLY early-era Trio art, so some of it is... dated. Also, as indicated by the top, this is part 1. Meaning there will probably be more, LOL...))

((I hope it's okay if I ramble some fun facts in the middle of this!))

We're gonna start off with this silly lil doodle of the lads! This was drawn during the era where I did my silly crossover drawings, before I mustered the courage to turn them into an askblog.

Based on the date, I must've drawn this next one while I was in the process of actually making the blog... potentially their original "profile" images? Or just a doodle I did to get me hyped...

As you can see, all the drawings so far are pencil and ink... that's because (if I remember correctly) this is when I was VERY new to computer tablets! I felt more confident in my traditional art so I would slap quick colors onto the back of a bunch of ink-drawn replies and make minor adjustments with the tablet. I remember being hesitant to switch to a fully digital style since I felt the sketchiness was almost part of the style of trio? But I've come to accept change is good! Everything post-Greed M!A is all (or mostly) digitally lined (with the occasional trad sketch), but if you look closely at the trio in this (and many other) early-day responses, you can definitely see the pencil marks!

Unposted Thneedville High Trio!!! I was SO obsessed with the Once-ler Askblog AU's back in the Once-ler Fandom's hayday... they were a lot of fun to observe on the side and I wanted to be part of that in my small way, but unfortunately, I was a coward so I never did LOL... I'm thinking this was drawn in February or March 2013...

And, something I drew on the same page, Truffula Flu Trio!!!! I think I briefly thought about making it (and thneedville high) a sideblog but I felt like I couldn't commit for multiple reasons: (1) AU hype was dying down a little, (2) It was a bit too serious a concept for Trio; I wanted to keep them lighthearted and silly (covers bad end with a hand). And (3) I was still doubting whether or not my blog counted as a Once-ler blog (being only 1/3 once-ler) and whether I was valid to participate in events. Eventually I got over that fear when I joined Camp Weehawken and participated in the fandom revival of 2015, but the fear was definitely there at the very beginning and I hesitated to jump in on some stuff because of it!!

These were some of my earliest (unanswered) asks! I think for a while I thought I accidentally deleted the Pinkie Pie one, but it mysteriously came back one day?? I don't plan to finish these but might as well get some closure since I already drew them. I had to look up which troll typing was the one being used here so I might be wrong, I know nothing about homestuck except chapter 1 and 2 and whatever I osmosis from my mutuals LOL...

Peacock was drawn before I knew anything about Skullgirls...... within the past few years I recently watched her gameplay/storyline! She's defs a fun character. Trio are probs neutral about her. I'm not confident enough to do anything major with her, but I would love to cameo her more!

I got a few asks / M!A's about genderbent versions of the trio back in early 2013 and these were my doodles for that. The designs were based off of different designs floating around tumblr at the time that I liked. I'm not interested in doing this M!A anymore, but the dresses are cute!

Some glasses shenanigans I never posted for some reason?? (For reference: (1) (2) (3) (4).) It's silly stuff like this that make me realize Trio!Professor is a little bit like "Cheerful Mystery" Professor but like... waaaaay more tame HAHA (I never read the manga back then because I was upset they made Layton OOC, but from what I've seen he's... a lot more chaotic there). Which, ykno, good chance explains why Trio!Professor stays sane around Once-ler and Warden and their wacky selves.

Some wardlers and layclaires!! Also a few super old things I doodled out for Lovestruck M!A part 2 (including warden being a perv and oncie being flustered and confused, LMAO) but... idk if I have the energy to commit to it at the moment... partially bc thinking about getting an influx of shippy-type asks gets me overwhelmed and idk if I can commit to another magic anon all my magic anons manage to kill the blog somehow 😭, but ykno... saving the anons in my inbox in case I change my mind... Love these guys dearly regardless,,, <3

Some doodles of Layton and his rivals!! I think someone sent a small "Descole takes over the blog" M!A (hence the itty bitty chibi head LMAOO) but (again) I don't have the energy to commit to anything but vanilla THT right now. I still thought the idea was fun enough to draw out and anticipate in advance! If I change my mind y'all will know about it...

My first drawing of Wilson from Don't Starve!! I didn't even play Don't Starve at the time, but I wanted to do research if I was going to properly execute the magic anon and I fell in love with him immediately. Unfortunately he (and his game) became my new brainrot and I still feel really bad about that LAUGHS, but hey! Was worth it! Maybe someday I'll redo trio mods for DST...

I may have him cameo again, but potentially after his character update in Don't Starve Together eventually drops, of course, :3 chants give us lore lore loRE LORE-

Aaaaaand that's all I'm gonna show for now... until next time everyone!

PART 1 (you are here!) || PART 2 (TBA) || PART 3 (TBA) || …

[the12thnightproject]

Chapter 2: Tick, Tick….People are disappearing. Meanwhile Katsu & Mitsuhide’s second meeting goes about as well as their first..

Mitsuhide x OC; Hideyoshi x MC (Mai)

All Chapters Archived on Ao3 

Logline - With Mai, Hideyoshi, and Aki missing, Mitsuhide and Katsuko reluctantly team up. Disguised as a merchant and his concubine, can they outsmart the man known as the God of Deceit?

Six weeks later…

Aki was late.

Not the normal lateness common to people living in an era that didn’t have clocks – that I was used to. No, he was over a week late to meet me in Niigata. For the past nine days, I had been holed up in an inn, basically counting the lines on the floor (twenty-four), playing both sides of a game of shogi (to a draw), and teaching myself to juggle. The fact that I could now easily manipulate five makeshift ‘bean’ bags (wood shavings and gravel sewn up in fabric) said everything about my boredom. Aside from one kunoichi who stopped in to wait out a rainstorm, there had been nobody interesting to talk to (granted, she had been really interesting).

While I would have said that Aki could survive anything and everything that life threw at him – nine days late was an ominous sign. Sure, he’d always been prone to disappearing for long periods of time. He’d also had a knack for reappearing on the exact day he’d promised.

Something’s wrong.

It was possible that he would eventually show up at the inn, but I couldn’t continue to hole up indefinitely – for one thing, inns cost money. I had paid for the 10-day “week” in advance – did I really want to commit to another week of this?

I need to be looking for him.

If Aki had been around to ask for advice, he probably would have suggested I return home, to the The Mountain, and wait for further communication. But that would just guarantee that Fume would put me to work scrubbing floors for the rest of the year. Hm…. I could continue south, and go to Azuchi. Aki maintained a bookstore there, but that was a front. In truth, it was a message drop for his couriers and spies. If anyone had seen him recently, then Takauji, who was currently manning the store, would know of it. And, if not… well, I could at least leave him a ‘where the hell are you?’ message while I figured out my next move.

Once decided, I wasted no more time and headed out into a cool late summer morning. The air had a bite to it, and the breeze carried the smell of harvest fruits. If I hadn’t been so preoccupied with wondering what happened to Aki, I might have enjoyed the journey to Azuchi. But happy as I was to be on the move, my mind was consumed with images of all the disasters that could have befallen him. Maybe he’d gotten caught up in a petty squabble between neighboring daimyos. Maybe he’d been injured or taken suddenly ill somewhere.

Maybe he simply got tired of you and never planned to return.

Ugh! Mental doomscrolling wouldn’t do me any good. Ok. Positive thinking. Instead of worrying why he was lost, figure out how to ensure he was found. Though Aki’s system of couriers and spies wasn’t nearly as vast a network as some others, like the Takeda mitsumono, there were still a lot of us. If we all worked together, we’d run him to ground… somewhere.

By the time I arrived at the bookseller’s in Azuchi, I had nearly convinced myself that finding Aki would simply be a matter of legwork. I could do that. I’d been criss-crossing the country on my own for years now. I had contacts in every city. I could do this… I could d--

“Thank the Gods you’re here.” Takaugi greeted me, not with his customary vague hello-and-can-you-take-over-so-I-can-go-piss, but a frantic announcement. “Francisco sent a message that Aki is missing, and I don’t know what to do.”

There is a reason why Takauji is often the one getting stuck in the old man disguise here. He has no initiative.

I dumped my pack on the floor behind the low counter. “Has anyone else heard from him?”

He shrugged. “You’re the first courier to come through since I received that message.”

Like I said. No initiative.

I put my hand out and after a momentary pause, Taka realized what I wanted and plopped Francisco’s note in it. I scanned it quickly, then slowly, but Taka had indeed given me all the available information. It simply said that Aki had missed a scheduled meeting and Francisco was concerned. But then he had likely needed to pay someone to write it for him, as he barely could speak Japanese. Writing it was far beyond his abilities.

Shit… if Francisco was worried too, something had to be terribly wrong. But… I couldn’t freak out in front of Takauji. Someone needed to take control of the situation, and I appeared to be the only candidate at hand. Taka wouldn’t listen if he saw me panic.

“Alright. Let’s first send out messages to all his couriers – we’ll have them search the corners of the country.” Which had basically been my plan anyway.

Taka simply gaped at me (literally, unhinged jaw). “What should I write… exactly?”

It deserved its own hashtag. #Takahasnoinitiative. I bit the inside of my cheek to avoid snapping at him. He couldn’t help it. Maybe he had been dropped on his head as a child. Daily. “I’ll write the first one. Then you can copy it.” I grabbed my pack, plus some paper and writing supplies we kept behind the counter and started to head for the private courtyard behind the shop. Then, I turned back to Taka. “Oh, and don’t tell anyone he is missing. Anyone who isn’t one of us.”

It shouldn’t have needed to have been said… but Taka doesn’t think either.

Once safely in the courtyard, I allowed myself a moment to have a private breakdown. I could feel my throat and chest tighten. What if Aki never came back? What would we all do? He’d spent years building his network. Would it disintegrate without him?

Ok. Breath.

Breathe.

I flipped myself into a handstand to center myself… focusing on the physical to cleanse the mental. One thing at a time. Listen to the wind, alert to when it chang-

At that moment, what I heard instead of the wind, was the sound of a packet being slapped onto the counter. This was followed by a voice that almost made me topple over. “I have an urgent message for Akihira.”

Mitsuhide.

He sounded about fifty percent less calm than the last time I had heard him speak, and… why am I upside down again? From where I was, as long as I kept still, I wouldn’t be visible from the front, but I couldn’t change positions without potentially alerting him to my presence.

Hopefully, Taka would remember not to mention…“He’s… he’s errm. I’ll m-m-make sure it goes out with the next courier.” Good. Though Taka had stumbled, most normal people would not have noticed.

Then again… this is Mitsuhide we’re talking about. He’s not normal. He might not even be human. Of course, he noticed. “My, my, that was quite the stutter. Is there a problem? You keep looking toward the-”

“Don’t go back there!” Taka sounded like every guilty toddler on the planet.

Footsteps.

Sandalwood and cinnamon.

That prickly feeling shot through me again, destroying all the focus I had just worked so hard to achieve.

Before I could react, my view was impeded by Mitsuhide’s legs. I tilted my head to look upward, meeting Mitsuhide’s eyes halfway. Then he crouched so that we were nearly face to face. “How very interesting, child. One might almost be convinced that this is your preferred …position. Perhaps you are part bat?”

Thank goodness I hadn’t yet started writing the ‘Aki is missing’ messages. Mitsuhide would definitely have noticed those. “Oh, you know. I’m just hanging around.”

No response.

Tough crowd.

It was tempting to stay upside down and force Mitsuhide to continue to crouch, or potentially get a crick in his neck, but today I was Aki’s representative and there was no reason to further antagonize him, even if he was the most aggravating man in this era. I flipped back to my feet with an artistic flourish. “Not to worry, I will make sure that Aki receives your correspondence the moment I see him.”

Neutral professional tone. Don’t give him anything to react to. These are not the droids you are looking for.

His posture shifted, just a little, just enough for me to register his skepticism.

Ok. Jedi mind tricks don’t work on kitsunes. Good to know.

He let me stew in silence for a moment before asking, “what are you not telling me?”

Seriously? We’re doing this again?

“You know, sometimes I think you say things like that not because you believe the person is holding back information, but because you hope they are. It’s a fishing expedition.” And I am not going to bite him. Anything. I’m not going to bite anything.

His eyebrow went up. “After a single meeting, you’ve determined this about me.” Sarcasm dripped into the air and plopped down at my feet.

“I’m very perceptive.” Which is true, as far as it goes. But something about Mitsuhide short circuited the connection between my brain and my mouth. And with my worry about Aki, my shields were low anyway.

“Perceptive… If you say so, Brat.” The heavy pause mid-sentence made it clear that he had other preferred adjectives for me. “I have not forgotten our last meeting.”

Neither had I.

I made a point of smiling at him. Ok, it was a fake smile, and I’m sure he was aware of that. “Perceptive and memorable.”

Eyebrow.

Distract, distract, distract!

I took out my juggling bags and tossed them into the air. “Dexterous too. There was nothing I could have told you anything that you didn’t already know – or that you didn’t learn soon anyway.”

Although I hadn’t personally witnessed any of this past summer’s conflict between Nobunaga’s forces and the Ikko-Ikki, my friend Sasuke (and his friend Yoshimoto) had later filled me in on the details – not that they had been part of the battle either, but instead were part of the diversionary tactic that led up to it.

Mitsuhide fluidly reached over and took over my bean bags – juggling them as effortlessly as I had. “You cost me time.” He let go of the bags and before I could return to the rhythm of the trick, they all fell to the ground.

Plop. Plop. Plop. Plop. Splat.

The fifth one landed on its seam, and burst open, scattering pebbles and wood shavings across the courtyard.

Mitsuhide stared down at the jumble of bean bags at my feet. “Interesting. It appears you aren’t as skilled as you believed you were. It would behoove you to learn, and quickly, that recklessness and overconfidence are quite a fatal combination.” He patted me on the head – patronizing, not affectionate. “See to it that Aki receives my correspondence.” He bowed. Polite but distant, then, without another word, Jareth-with-better-teeth strolled out of the shop.

I hate him.

That had been even less pleasant than my first encounter with him. I felt like someone was jamming an ice pick through my sinuses. Maybe I’m allergic to sandalwood. Or cinnamon.

Maybe I’m allergic to Mitsuhide.

“Did I do that correctly?” Taka peered nervously into the courtyard. “And… he’s not going to come back and kill me, is he?”

You? No. Me? Jury still out.

It would take me years to explain to Taka the art of misdirection. Easier to simply say, “you did fine.” Then I took Mitsuhide’s message out of his hands. Without a second thought, I opened it to read—

“You told him you were taking that to Aki.” Taka scratched his head. “You shouldn’t read Aki’s mail.”

“I always read Aki’s mail. In fact, he once told me I should. Anyway, what I told Mitsuhide was that I would give Aki the message as soon as I saw him, which, of course, I will. But since I don’t know when that will be, if this is important, then I’d better see if there’s something that I can do to help.” I did… owe Mitsuhide that much.

His letter was coded, which made sense, but Aki had made a point of teaching me all his codes, not just the ones he used for his correspondence. We had even created a special code together, but that one was only used between the two of us. In retrospect, this was an ominous sign… maybe he had already been worried about his future.

I made myself comfortable on the ground and started to decode the message. “Go back up front, Taka, this is going to be a while.”

“Can I go take a piss first?” Taka was already heading through the back exit en route to the city’s cesspits.

“Sure,” I called to his retreating back, then got back to the message. Friend. Have you had any knowledge of who might be interested in smuggling Nanban weapons out of Sakai or the western ports? Or at least, would you be able to point me to the daimyos most likely to be stockpiling them?

Hm, if Francisco was to be believed, Aki had been headed to the port of Sakai the last time anyone had heard from him… Was it possibly that he had already been looking into weapon shipments? If so, that was the sort of information that Aki kept to himself, and none of the rest of us had much experience with smuggl—

Except me. I had had experience with them.

“Once they load the crates on board,” Iekane gestured to the other crates, “you ought to be able to climb out at night and track down your brother.” He showed me where there was a latch on the lid, and I tested the escape mechanism. “The ship isn’t planning to leave for a few days.” He handed me my bow and arrows. “Light one of these on fire and shoot it into the air. I’ll wait on the dock with our horses. Goodbye… well, good luck, I mean.” I lay back down in the crate and my world became dark as Iekane closed the lid. A few moments later, I heard another voice. “You there! What are you doing with my … shipment?” Footsteps came closer to the box. I held my breath. Now would not be a good time to be discovered. Hopefully Iekane wasn’t in trouble either. “Final inventory check!” Ooh, that was a good bluff on Iekane’s part, since he couldn’t know what was in these boxes. I heard the lid on another box open, and the dull heavy clank of metal – but the only metal that would be imported these days would be Nanban guns. Crap. Of all the crates to pick, we’d somehow gotten mixed in with someone’s weapon smuggling outfit. “Wait ‘til they get a load of these, heh heh.” The clunk of that lid. I prayed that this guy wouldn’t inspect every box. Another voice, this one with a European accent that I couldn’t place through the walls of the crate. “I’m happy you approve, Motonari. You, boy, help us move these.” “Of course.” That was Iekane’s voice. I felt the box being lifted. The motion was soothing, almost like being rocked in a cradle, and in spite of my anxiety, I felt myself becoming sleepy. But after about half and hour or so, my crate’s journey ended with a thunk. And then more thuds – oh the other crates. The jingle of coins. “Pleasure doing business with ye!”

Even after over five years, memories of that near-death experience still gave me nightmares. I couldn’t go into small spaces without having a panic attack… but that also meant that I had very clear memories of exactly how to find that warehouse in Sakai, a warehouse that had at one point been used to store Nanban weapons.

Still, it had been five years… the warehouse could have changed hands, the weapons could be coming to an alternate location now. Was this enough information to pass along to Mitsuhide? Maybe I should check it out on my own first… especially since I had another reason to make that trip. Aki had been planning to meet Francisco, who lived in Sakai. I could go to Sakai myself, check things out, and question Francisco. Then if I learned anything interesting, I could bring that back to Mitsuhide, with a mea culpa for reading his mail.

It's better to ask for forgiveness than permission. Or… something to that effect.

By the time I dropped three stacks of messages into Taka’s hands, my fingers were sore and cramping. Originally, I had planned to have Taka make the copies himself, but I didn’t trust that he would complete them, or avoid a transcription error that would spill over into all of them – this was too important to trust to a Takauji version of “telephone” in which “Aki is missing” turned into “Go to the province of Aki to look for a missing letter.”

“Give these to Ryo, Kinshiro, and Heitane when they pass through.” Each of them would distribute their stacks to Aki’s spies, who were scattered across the country.

“Are these for Aki, or for Mitsuhide’s request?” Taka looked at the store’s entry, clearly worried that speaking his name out loud would cause the man to manifest.

Don’t worry, Taka, you must stand in the middle of a pentagram and say the name three times for that to happen.

“This is for Aki. I’ll deal with the other on my own.” At my words, Taka sighed, in what I presume was relief. “Um, do you mind if I bunk with you tonight?” There was a set of rooms for the bookseller to use above the storefront. The quarters weren’t terribly big, but for one night, it wouldn’t be so ba-.

“Must you?” Taka frowned, as he glanced at the position of the setting sun on the horizon. “Er, normally I wouldn’t mind, Katsu, but there’s a woman and…”

“Say no more.” Did this woman realize that under the old man disguise Taka was about thirty years old? Or… not? Maybe … you know what. I did not need to speculate on Taka’s love life. I could find a cheap inn. “If Mitsuhide comes back, all you need to tell him is that I took his message to Aki.”

“What if Aki comes back looking for you?” Taka carefully stored the messages under the counter. “Are you heading back to The Mountain?”

Hm, it probably would be a good idea to tell someone where I was heading, just in case. It would be better if I could tell a useful someone, someone with initiative, but I had to work with what I had. “No. Sakai. I’m going to Sakai.”

The shops in the castle town were all in the process of closing for the night, but a few merchants were still willing to sell their wares, even as the sun set. If I was going to be in Sakai, I would need a decent wicker or bamboo hat. Otherwise, in the warmer coastal weather my hood would stick out like a sore ninja. While I waited for the woman in front of me to decide between two different decorative obi cords, as usual paying attention to everything and nothing, the conversation between the woman and the merchant caught my attention.

“Weren’t Lord Hideyoshi and Lady Mai supposed to have returned to Azuchi by now?”

Mai… that’s Sasuke’s friend… the one who works in Azuchi castle.

I’d never met her, but she and Lord Hideyoshi had figured prominently in Sasuke’s tales of this past summer’s battles. I turned a woven hat upside down, examining the inside, pretending to be concentrating on its weight and not her response.

“Um. Well. Yes. But. Um. They are having such a nice time together that they decided to extend their trip. In fact. Mai sent a nice note to all the seamstresses telling us about how pretty it is in Sakai and the weather is lovely there so they are not yet coming back.” The woman’s hands were shaking.

She’s lying.

One of the rules of lying? Keep it short and simple. The more you talk, the more you have to keep track of.

Proving my point, the seamstress continued, “Of course she also said that Azuchi has the best fabric merchants, so I’m sure that when she and Lord Hideyoshi return, she’ll come here immediately… because our orders are piling up.”

“I look forward to seeing her again,” the merchant said while he wrapped up her purchases (she bought both ties).

After the woman took her package and left, I quickly paid for my hat… clearly, I had some additional research to do…

Later that night, when I was holed up at yet another inn, I jotted down what I had learned that afternoon. Mai and her fiancée Hideyoshi had taken a trip to Sakai, and they had neither returned when expected nor sent a message announcing a delay. This was atypical behavior for Lord Hideyoshi (per a couple of Oda’s vassals who probably shouldn’t have been talking that loudly in a public restaurant). Item number two – Mitsuhide was concerned enough about weapons smuggling and smugglers to send a message to Aki.

Were these two items connected?

Meanwhile, Aki had also disappeared, sometime before he was due to meet Francisco in Sakai.

And though I did not know where Aki had been specifically going prior to intending to meet Francisco in Sakai, that was enough of a confirmation to me that all roads led to Sakai.

I hadn’t spent a lot of time there myself, but I knew enough to get around. I knew the blind alleys and the rooftops. Even better, I was certain that Francisco would be willing to trade lodgings for in-house translation services. I could take my time and investigate this properly.

‘Case log’ begun. Travel plans solidified. Hat acquired. Time for sleep.

Time to attempt sleep.

Time to stare at the ceiling again.

Sleep never comes easily for me – I have to chase it, tie it down, hug it to me, and hope for as much rest as possible. Unsurprisingly, when I finally dropped off, I was haunted by the memories of the crate, the weight of full boxes pressing down, the voices of the weapons smugglers checking their stock.

Likely these dreams were summoned by my plan to return to the scene of the so-called crime.

But maybe in doing so, I would finally put some of those ghosts to rest.

@mllorei @selenacosmic @tele86 @bestbryn @lyds323 @akitsuneswife

[animehouse-moe]

Heavenly Delusion Episode 1: Heaven and Hell

So first thing's first, I'm a massive fan of the manga. I know the ins and outs, and have a boatload of theories under my belt. Which makes it hard. I want to scream out to the world about how amazing this anime adaptation is, but I don't want to ruin it for others. So how do I share my love without ruining it for others? I'm unsure, but I'll do my best to spread my love and passion for the series, and excitedly chatter about the stellar work that Production IG has done for it. So, where to start, where to start indeed.

What about "cut" manga content? There's a lot of interesting stuff there, not so much in the content itself but in how well they streamline it. In total, I'd count less than a few pages and panels that have been skipped over, but I think overall they're really great choices for glossing over and improving the overall pacing of the anime. When you extrapolate and expand upon content from the manga, it does make sense to gloss over a few of the less crucial pieces, like this page about Kiruko cleaning herself off before getting into bed.

It's a sequence, that when within the manga helps build the world out a bit, but at the cost of pages (and within the anime screen time). It's a solid piece to remove and a good example as to what's been moved past. Alongside that, and in sort of a similar boat, is the perceived sexuality or eroticism of some of the characters. There definitely isn't what you'd call "fan service" in the manga, but there are moments that you might argue are a bit gratuitous. An example would be what manga readers see when Kiruko is on the toilet in the manga vs the anime. Nothing crazy, just a bit of bush, but it's more explicit in that sense than the anime. On the flip side though, a moment of Kiruko... exploring the curiosity she has in herself comes off more erotic in the anime than the manga, in my opinion. A stronger sense of forbiddance and curiosity. On the surface they seem very comparable, but in reality they appear worlds apart from each other, thanks to the direction which I'm unable to share due to content restrictions on Tumblr.

So, what next? Maybe the sequencing of events. A La Sabikui Bicso, Production IG is shifting around when events happen for viewers, and I'm 100% here for it. They're moving things around to create greater impact, to play into the largest strengths of the animated medium. They're not limited by a chapter format but instead an episode, which is a greater chunk of content. They cut it up, they move it around, save it for later, and produce something incredibly tight and well organized. There's entire chapters that they shift out of place, but I think it works in amazing fashion - hiding the mystery, drawing it out slower and more carefully. They play right into how an anime should execute on what Heavenly Delusion is, and the best example is seeing what does and doesn't translate as a 1:1. Take the appearances of the Hiruko. The first, is really close to how the manga shows it, but with even less shown of it. They trim it down to give you the minimum to illicit that fear and curiosity, but keep the most important parts to it hidden. It's outstanding, the degree of fear and mystery surrounding the Hiruko is far greater, but at the same time is somewhat lacking in a key aspect. So, let me walk you through it, particularly the second encounter.

This is what we get in the manga of the Hiruko coming down towards the inn. Definitely different, and that shiver going down your spine just isn't there compared to the anime's version. But there's a piece of importance that's missing.

Now the anime? This is how you inspire fear. The scale, the speed, the silence. It gives you goosebumps. It's a massive level up and expansion on the material, but misses one crucial piece that those with keen eyes might have already spotted.

So what, pray tell is the important difference here? An image. That is the only hint I will give. The manga page above gives the answer to a question posed in both the anime and manga, and in a way I'm sort of sad to see it not appear, but at at the same time I understand and there's going to be many more opportunities for it. What I can add though, is that with Production IG's approach, just looking or listening alone will not be enough. Both are required with the dense worldbuilding that they have provided. And even more impressive is the fact that they butter you up with it. They add benign pieces beforehand to up your awareness of certain aspects to prepare you to take in the real content, and I think it's outstanding. It's not completely hidden foreshadowing that requires the most astute of observations, nor is it holding your hand, it just gives you a nudge in the right direction.

There is a world of content to that degree that I wish I could talk about, but it will ruin the experiences of anime onlies unfortunately, so maybe I'll return to it after it's been revealed.

Let's move elsewhere, to a piece of Heavenly Delusion I can talk about comfortably. Direction. I think the approach is stellar, and with the support of incredible storyboarding, they produce something that is immediately recognizable as an integral style to Heavenly Delusion. What might that be? Focus on hands, and cutoff close ups. But what does it mean? Well, my answer-slash-interpretation is the act of connection and the dissonance of the self. The existence of "another" Tokio is referenced, and we see the mirror image of Kiruko in this episode. With plenty of hands, their hesitations, their reaching out, their actions. And hand in hand with those moments are closeups that remove the facial expressions of characters. Take the inn owner at the end of the episode. We see them loading those shells, heavily placing each round in their gun with their head hung. However, we don't get to see the look on their face. Is it fear? Is it sorrow? Anger? We're unsure. And this sentiment appears from start to finish in the episode. Focusing on what Kona's drawing rather than what Anzu sees as Kona draws. Or specifically choosing camera angles to limit the viewer's ability to see the faces of characters in crucial moments, even going as far as using drapes as a way to restrict vision. Maybe even as simple as only showing the intertwined hands of lovers after they've passed rather than showing their whole bodies.

It's some real wonderful direction that places heavy focus on the mystery and curiosity of the story more than it does what the characters can express of that mystery and story. Body language becomes far more central to the expression of the world and story, and a stake is driven between what appears as body and mind. I think the greatest example of this is Kiruko's scene in the changeroom at the inn. The crack appears higher up and separates her head from the rest of her body, showing that dissonance in the perception of self.

Going even further, the surroundings of the characters themselves play into the role of expression as well. Take the owner of the inn. The intensity and expression of her emotions isn't in her voice, nor is it in her face. It's in her environment, grabbing hold of the knife with a strong grip to show her tension, or having the pot boil over to express the turmoil bubbling over within her before settling down. It's a whole world of emotion that exists separate from what the person exists as.

Anyways, I hope that through these various gifs you've come to understand that Heavenly Delusion has, well, Heavenly animation. Start to finish it's incredible, they make full use of some wildly talented staff to produce outstanding work. Dynamic camera angles and movement is fully a part of the series as is evident by the various PVs and this first episode. Shifting perspective, cameras that fly about the environment, it's as natural as breathing to this series. And it's incredible, it breaths so much life into it, adding to the action, making the ponderings of a young girl that much grander.

I'm still in awe with this action sequence, everything hits just right. The combat is fluid and incredibly well choreographed, the camera moves and bobs perfectly with Maru to add to the pacing and impact, and the style is just right. It's got flair, confidence if you will. And the soundtrack adds to it. It provides that feeling of levity, like Maru was never going to lose in the first place, that he already knew what would be the outcome of the fight. And then the icing on the cake, the Kiruko Beam. The sound effects for it were super cool, the dynamic shift to Kiruko's perspective on the fence was awesome, and the actual effect of the gun was so damn sci-fi.

In general though, the sound design and soundtrack for Heavenly Delusion is pitch perfect. The right amount of excited young curiosity that gives way to unease and discomfort for the children, positive and light music to punctuate the casual travels of Kiruko and Maru, as well as plenty of disturbing and tone-setting music and sounds for the moments of horror.

To summarize, Heavenly Delusion goes hard, far harder than I would have ever expected. It did such an amazing job that I still have a thousand and one thoughts in my head about the episode, about how they adapted things, about how they storyboarded and chose to portray certain moments, and how they build out this world and foreshadow all manner of things. Heavenly Delusion isn't the dark horse of this season, it's the King of The Hill that all others will be trying to measure up to.

[lyon-amore]

The half of me Chapter 24

Chapter 23 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I guess being an actress is more complicated than I thought. I had to repeat several movements because I move the wrong hand, my hair has to be behind my shoulders, if I look directly at the camera... How could Daliah do all this? And that I am still I have not done more scenes than this. I avoid pinching the sleeve of my blouse out of nerves. Because I also must be careful with the wardrobe.    “MC, you should have looked at Josh” Carter cuts the scene “, he's talking."    "Sorry." I say nervously, I had been thinking about what background music would be perfect for this scene.    "Start again."     I nod and take a deep breath.

The next scene was a bit easier, I had to be sitting in class pretending to take notes. Daliah doesn't speak here, but she had to be present because she was one more student. It was the introductory scene of the movie; the professor talks about legends and myths. He is passing images and the more terrifying. There's a moment when they talk about the wendigo that I'd love to look away, but right at that moment when the camera turns on me and I have to pretend it doesn't affect me. I'm thankful that I only have to do Daliah's scenes and not the entire movie. As soon as I'm done shooting, I'm out of here. I stay looking at the drawing of 'The man without a face'. I forget to even take the false notes. I'm to blame for not telling that he was Richy. All because I thought I was going to tarnish his image… A criminal… Who put us through terrible things. And I also remember the good times we had. I never knew what to answer if I forgave him or not, at that moment, I didn't know what to say. Jane asks something, immersed in the role and the "professor" answers her. The scene ends and I breathe in, to exhale heavily.    "Perfect MC" Ralph tells me, a little clearer ", your expressions of astonishment were almost real."    “Yeah, at least this time we were able to shoot this scene without a problem.” Carter smiles.    "Well, it's just that you help me a lot." I try to lie, but I'm nervous.    "You're doing well, MC" Grace says to me, smiling ", you look like a professional actress."     I laugh shyly, I know she's saying it to encourage me to keep going, but I know I wouldn't reach Daliah's level. Besides, I wasn't even acting.

We take a break and I sit on the stairs of the academy to eat. Everyone has their group already, but it doesn't bother me. Oh, I wish my friends were here, although they might have objected to me helping them because of everything I've been through, but I'd feel terrible leaving them stuck without teacher approval for the film festival. I see Mason sit down next to Seo-ah and I smile as he makes her smile with a comment. Then I remember Jake and the chat discussion this morning, how I'll talk to him on the phone. I take out my phone and see that I have messages from him concerned. I bite my lip hard, feeling stupid. I've known Elliot for years, so it's normal for me to side with him a little bit, but at the same time I don't want to be mad at Jake. I decide to write to him, already a little calmer. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MC Jake, sorry about what happened this morning… I'm really sorry But understand that Elliot is my friend, it's normal for me to lose my mind taking his side I even plan on sneaking out again to go to Evergreed to see you and talk it over calmly, okay? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I wait for his answer, but he don't answer. Strange, because of his message, he said that he would wait for me to want to talk and now he doesn't say anything.    "Can we keep you company?" I look up to see Grace and Ralph, with their respective trays of food.    "Sure" I nod, and Grace sits next to me, while Ralph takes a step down, in front of Grace ". I've seen Seo-ah's dolls” Grace looks at me, paying attention “. It’s looks quite similar to the doll that Daliah received."    "I know" she admits with a sigh ". I'm scared to think that she sent it to her, it would be horrible, because look at her" she point at her and I see Seo-ah laugh with Mason ", it would be a disappointment to everyone."     Jane and Carter walk over to us and she smiles at us.    "Can we sign up too?" she asks, not letting go of Carter's hand.    “There are plenty of seats.” Ralph replies, pointing to the stairs.     Carter sits next to me and Jane next to him. I see that they divide the food and then they kiss. Great… I'm surrounded by couples… This is uncomfortable, especially knowing that Carter cheated on her.    “My bet is Carter” Ralph says, then looks at him “, maybe he killed Daliah."    "And maybe you're going to be next." Carter snaps back, making Ralph laugh.    "Guys, enough" Jane looks at them with a frown ", you can't talk about these things with the MC in front of you-"    "Is okay" I answered, concentrating on the food ", also, I don't think you're any of you."    "And so?" Grace asks, drinking from her water bottle after her "Anything else to know?"    “Well” I clear my throat, prepared to deliver the news “, at the moment there are two suspects: A man named Armando Serrano, a Colville businessman Daliah sometimes worked for, and the alleged son or daughter of Krebs."     They all stare at me. Carter's look is scary, like I've said something wrong. Sure, he asks Serrano for money. If it turns out that he is the murderer, he would no longer be able to get money. Grace looks a little pale from the news to which I see her squeeze Ralph's shoulder and Ralph takes her hand lovingly. Jane on the other hand seems the most interested, nodding.    "Janis Krebs had a son?" the ash blonde asks me, surprised "How come nobody knew?"    "Protection of minors" I quickly answer ". They didn't want the press to ask him or her about his or her father."    "And what about Serrano?" Grace asks, resting her head on Ralph's. Yes, they are totally a couple "Have they already asked him?"    "I don't know yet" I shrug, brushing my hair away from my face to look at her ", maybe they will today."     Whoever Krebs's son is, I think they must be living far from Rosenschwarz by now" Carter takes some of his food and makes a sound as if he's going to continue speaking ". Come on, it would be suicidal to go near this town if you were the son of a child murderer, they would blame you for what your father did.    "And if we change the subject?" Grace asks, and I see discomfort in her eyes.    "We're just talking" Jane answers ", and you're right, honey, I'd be ashamed to be her daughter. I'm not!" She quickly defends herself. I nod and watch as Grace strokes Ralph's hair, ignoring us. Could it be that… Grace?

After eating, I decide to approach Mason and Seo-ah. I don't want to interrupt the moment they're having, but I'd like to ask her something about her stuffed animal.    "Hey guys." I wave, a little nervous.    "How are you doing, new Audrey Hepburn?" Mason tells me and I laugh "I hope you're not taking it wrong for replacing Daliah."    "It's complicated" I answer ", especially for not knowing where to put your foot or avoid making a strange face."    "I'm surprised you agreed to act" Seo-ah gives me a pitying look ". I mean... I wouldn't have minded making the movie from the beginning eliminating Daliah."    “Yeah, I think the same thing” Mason looks at her, nodding ". I'm not saying that Daliah was expendable" he looks at me quickly ", but I don't know if is going to be good the day we show this short at the festival" he grits his teeth, looking annoyed ". I think is going to attract more attention because of the publicity they're going to want to give it than because of the plot itself."     I nod, knowing what he's trying to say. Everyone will want to see the movie because a girl who died is in it before it was released. And, to top it all off, her twin replaces her in some scenes that she comes out. I hope they really appreciate the talent that Daliah had more than what's supposed to be behind the screen.    "Actually, I came to talk to you Seo-ah" I look at the girl and nod ". It's about the dolls you made."    "Is something wrong with them?" She asks me concerned "Did Carter say something? We need more?"    "No, it's not that" I bite my tongue, trying to find the exact words so she doesn't think I'm accusing her directly, that I just want information ". Actually, Daliah received a doll quite similar to the ones you make."     She looks at me starting to turn pale. She seems like she's starting to freak out at my accusation.    "Are you insinuating that it's her?" Mason looks at me angrily "Seo-ah can't do that."    “I'm not implying, I'm just asking if she knows anything."     Seo-ah slowly shakes her head and I can see her looking at me in fear.    "Well, I don't know how that's possible" she answers, a little nervous ". I mean... It's not possible since I brought the dolls today-"    "I know, but maybe if-"     Seo-ah quickly stands up, picking up the food items from her.    “Sorry, I have to go over the script for the next scene.” she says with a smile.     I stop her by grabbing her wrist. I look into her eyes, so she understands how serious this is.    “Enough of the lies” I begg, with my voice shaking ". Please… "     I watch her swallow hard and nod.    "Can I come to your house tonight?" She asks me, looking around a little uncomfortable "I prefer not to talk here."    “Sure” I reply, letting go of her wrist ". If you want, you can stay the night, I would love to have a friend with me."     She smiles shy at me, and I hear Mason complain.    "And what about me?" He asks embarrassed.    "Girls only." She taps his on the forehead playfully ". Boys are off limits."    “When I throw a party too, girls will be off limits to her” he says in a proud voice “video games, junk food, and explosion movies."    "To think that we girls can't like that is a bit old-fashioned, don't you think?" Seo-ah tells him, with a laugh "See you tonight then, MC."     Seo-ah walks away from us, and I watch Mason watch her go. He even lets out a sigh. I smile seeing the scene. It's like watching a romantic teen movie. Only without teenagers.    "Is it wrong to say that one day I'll marry her?" He continues watching Seo-ah leave.     I shake my head, letting out a laugh.    "I think even she thinks the same thing, too."    "Really?" He turns his head quickly, like an owl. His eyes sparkle after hearing me say that.    "Break is over!" Carter yells from the stairs "Go get ready for the next scene!"    “See you inside.” Mason stands up and pats me on the shoulder.     I make a noise of agreement and take out my phone again, hoping that Jake has texted me back. Unfortunately, he hasn't said anything to me, maybe he's changed his mind and he's decided it's not worth it anymore because I've sided with Elliot?   << But at no point have I said that I love Elliot… >> I look nervously at the screen. What have I done?    "Come on MC!" Grace exclaims, coming up next to me "What's wrong? And that face?"    "Nothing" I put the phone away nervously, hoping she hadn't seen the conversation ". Seo-ah will come talk to me at the end."    "Really?" She looks at me curiously "Do she know something then?"    "I don't know, according to her, no."    "Hopefully she knows something and tells you" She grabs my arm and pulls me away ". But now, let's go to the next scene" I nod and she laughs, starting to walk quickly ". By the way, who is Jake? “ Oh, so she's seen it? “Someone special?"     I look aside. I didn't want anyone to find out, it's too dangerous for him.    "More or less" I reply. The list of people who know Jake's name is getting longer, and I don't like it at all.    "I remember Daliah hooked up with a guy named Jake years ago." she lets out an exaggerated sigh "God! He was hot!    "Yeah, she already told me the same thing" I answered awkwardly ", but I don't think he's the same one we're talking about."    "Who knows?" She tells me with a smile "Both sisters are attractive to men."     I try to figure out what she means by those words. But I prefer not to think that by chance Jake and Daliah got to know each other at some point in their lives and maybe… No. Stop MC, Jake doesn't like Daliah, you know that. I tried to keep up with her, hoping the next scene would be just like the one before, quiet.

Well…

It is not a peaceful scene.    "Well MC" Carter places me in an 'X' on the hallway floor ", in this scene you have to run away from 'The Man Without a Face' " I turn to see the actor playing him and he gives me a smile gentle. As for him not to be afraid of him ". There are some markings in the corridor that will tell you where you have to go, which is to lock yourself in the janitor's closet, okay?" I nod and let the makeup and hairdressers fix me while I listen to Carter "The red marks are the ones you have to act like you trip over, but don't worry, there aren't many and you don't have to fall down either."     I try not to touch too much my hair or clothes, which are torn apart as if I've been attacked.    "The blood is perfect" Ralph says, looking into the camera ", it doesn't hide her face, so she'll look good" He smiles at me with a thumbs-up ". Perfect."     I think he laughs at me. I'm supposed to come out of the corner to prepare to run. I think it will be quite easy.    "You'll do fine" the "villain" tells me, putting on his mask ". Good luck.” he punches me in the arm and I groan. He has hit too hard.     I prepare to listen to Carter, tuning my ear. I avoid touching my blood make-up, it itches, am I allergic or is it the nerves of knowing that what I feared the most is finally going to persecute me?    "Action!"

We repeat the scene at least four times. I've tried to get it right, but I can't. Every time I pretended to trip, I really hurt myself. In the end I ended up with red hands from stopping the ground with it so much. To make matters worse, the wound hurts from doing it. They've done everything they can to hide it, telling me how to position myself so it won't show.    "Cut." the way of saying it Carter seems to be tired. It's not my fault, it's complicated "What's wrong?    “I can't do it.” I mutter, holding my hand “How do I pretend to trip without actually falling?"    "Instead of opening your arms in an exaggerated way" Jane moves her arms just in that exaggerated way and I laugh, calming myself down ", focus more on your feet, look." She bends down and I watch her place my feet ". Trie to think of placing your feet like this, crossed, but watch your knee or you'll fall for real if you hit yourself hard."     I nod and they put my hair back on and her blood paints it again, the liquid look it had been gone. I take a breath and wait for Carter to say action again.

Upon hearing it, I run away.

This time, I do better. Looking back from time to time. As far as I know, we have to replay this scene a couple of times from different camera angles, so I try to memorize every move I make, like it's a song. It's easy for me if I think of it that way. I reach the janitor's closet and close the door, just like Carter told me to.    "Cut! "He exclaims, with a happy intonation "Perfect!"     I smile and when I go to open the door...    "What?" I move the latch, but it doesn't open.    "MC? You can go out now.” Mason tells me.    "I try, but it won't open." I say, trying to open the door again "it won't open! Can you do something?"    “Okay, we'll try from outside.” I hear Carter say.     I lean back a bit and the sound of a television makes me turn. On screen, Daliah appears crying, with hands around her neck. The screen goes black, as in a movie appearing a few words.    <<Say it.>>    “I'm sorry.” Daliah says between sobs.    <<Say it more convincingly.>>    "I'm so sorry!"    <<Feeling it is not enough.>>     I see him start to squeeze around her neck and she tries to break free.    "Don't do it. Please… Please! Don't do it!" It's the same scream that sounded in that call.     I start to cry, watching the death of my sister.    <<You should have died.>> Little by little I see how Daliah stops breathing.    "Daliah!" I scream even though I know it already happened "No, no, no, no!"    "MC?" I hear Jane call me "What's wrong?"     I walk over to the television and place my hands on the sides of it, as if I want to save it.    "Stay with me! Daliah! Don't leave me!"     Something on the screen appears. A message. For me.    <<One less.>> My tears don’t stop falling. What do I have to do with all this? I was a child! I did what I must do!    <<I will finish what I started.>> The screen blacks out and I curl up on the floor. Scared. Shattered. Crying. I can't with this torture. I can't take it anymore... I want it to end once and for all. The door is flung open and someone approaches me.    "MC!" I hear Jane approaching me "What's wrong?!"    “Da-Daliah…” I try to say as she helps me up “The video… They… were killing her! I have seen her death!"     Carter walks over to the television and punches the buttons, trying to turn it on. He even hits it to make it react.    “Nothing, it doesn't work.” he says as he sits up.    "Who was in charge of the closet, preparing it?" Grace asks "The knob is broken!" I see how he checks that he doesn't get to move enough to open.    "Me" We all look at Mason, surprised ". But I checked that it works fine-"    "Well, it wasn't! Look at her! She is scared!" Grace walks over to us and looks at me "Are you okay?"    "I…" I shake my head "Can I stop recording? I want to go home."    "Sure" Carter looks at everyone and raises his voice "Change of plans! Today we shot the scenes for William, Josh and Marcus!"

I leave quickly and hear Mason call my name.    "MC! Wait!"    "No! I want to go home!" I yell as I headed to the classroom to collect my things.    "I just want to apologize!"     I enter the classroom and take the clothes that I have in the bag, along with my jacket and my bag.    “Listen” Mason stands in the doorway, stopping me “, I swear I didn't leave you locked in there."     I stare at him, doubting. He could have made that video since he was dedicated to modifying those of his classmates. Quite possibly he could have made that video of Daliah. He could be the murderer. I move him aside to pass, I want to clean the blood off and change as soon as possible.    "I'm telling you the truth" he stops me, grabbing my wrist ", it wasn’t me."    "Let her go" Ralph appears and separates our hands ". You look more suspicious, don't you see?"     Mason looks from Ralph to me, looking surprised.    "I'm sorry, I really-"     I push them both and walk away from there.

I go into the bathroom and put the clothes in the sink. I break down crying again when I look in the mirror. I see the image of Daliah crying. Asking forgiveness. I turn on the faucet and start to wipe off the fake blood, though it's hard for me because I don't want to look in the mirror. I can't see myself. I only see Daliah. My hands shake every time I run them over my face, rubbing the paint away. It hurts. It's like a knife was just stuck in my heart and I couldn't get it out. When I finish the face, I continue with the arms and hands, managing to stop seeing myself in the mirror. I hear the notification sound and frantically search for my phone, wishing it was Jake. I need to talk to him.

But they weren't the words I wanted to read... ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nym-0s Do not come to Evergreed anymore. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My breath catches reading those words. Now it is as if the dagger Ihad had been pulled out along with the heart. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MC What are you saying? Jake? Please! Don't tell me that! I need you! Now more than ever! I promise I won't side with Elliot again if it's for that! But don't tell me we don't see each other anymore! Please Jake! Don't do this to me now! I love you! Please!

-----Nym-0s has left the chat---- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A gasp escapes me as I read those words. It couldn't be that he really had been mad at me, right? It couldn't be true that over some silly fight about not wanting to risk losing him again. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MC Nymos! Tell me where is Jake!

Nym-0s Scanning user by the name of Jake. … …. ….. …… Scanned name. No user with the name of Jake is detected. Do you want something else?

MC And with the name of Nym-0s?! Please! It's urgent!

Nym-0s Scanning user by the name of Nym-0s. … …. ….. …… Scanned name. No user with the name of Nym-0s is detected. Do you want something else? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I scream and fall to my knees, my phone clutched to my chest. Jake has left me alone. Again, but why? Is it really my fault? Have I lost his trust? I'm so sorry! I didn't want this to happen! I didn't want to fight him! I lean against the wall, leaving the phone on the floor and raising my hands to my head. It hurts me so much to cry, for the things I've seen today. I don't have Daliah. I don't have Jake. I have no one. The door opens and I don't turn to see who is, but the presence of someone sitting next to me doesn't calm me down.    "Do you want me to take you home?" I hear Jane ask me.    "What… " I look at her still without stopping to cry "What about the short film?"    "Carter is now busy giving Mason the talk about what he did" she makes a face ", so he goes long" she offers me her hand and gives me a smile ", shall we go?"     I nod and she helps me up. I hug her and she tried to comfort me, stroking my hair.    "Everything is going to be fine" she tells me calmly ". You'll see."     I cry harder, trying to believe her words. Someone is hurting me in the most terrible way possible and I am powerless to do anything. I have a feeling that everyone wanted to do this with me today, that everyone might be Daliah's killer and I'm the only one with only blood on my hands from not being able to do anything for her.

When I get home, Jane leaves me on the sofa and goes to the kitchen. Seconds later I hear her complain.    "MC, the fridge is almost empty!" I listen to her as she returns and picks up her phone from the table " Do you feel like... Some pasta? Or maybe a vegetarian?"    "Why has this happened?" I ask without looking for an answer. I already know why all this is happening "Why does they just kill me and that's it?"     Jane sighs and puts her phone down on the coffee table, looking at me.    "Look, the one who is doing this to you is a first-class psychopath" She looks at me, she is furious ". I don't know what happened in that closet, but whatever it is, I believe you."    “It was the video of Daliah being killed” I say, my voice cracking ". Jane... I saw him stop breathing..."    "The problem is that that television didn't turn on." she crosses her arms, thoughtful "Why?"    "Because they doesn't want anyone except me to see it" I answer, wiping away my tears, "Can I tell you something?"     Jane nods and I take a deep breath.    "I have access to Daliah's computer" I said slowly ", in it there are files talking about receiving the clippings, the doll... Conversations, a newspaper talking about you all... Everything..."     Little by little her face changes. She looks at me scared.    "Do you have it here?" She asks me nervously "Why didn't you give it to the police?"    "No, I don't have it" I know I'm risking what I'm doing ". The computer couldn't be accessed so I asked a hacker to help me-"    "Okay, okay." she moves her hand to stop me "But why are you telling me this? Why me?"     I shake my head as I shrug.    "Because I'm left alone and I don't know who to trust anymore." I answer, crying again.     She sighs and hugs me again.    "He left me" I say through tears ". He has left me alone and I don't know what to do..."    "I don't know who you're talking about, but I'm sure everything will be fine." she tells me, as she pats me on the back "The FBI won't be after me now that you've told me, will they?"     I let out a laugh, although it's not like I'm amused, but I no longer know what's a joke and what's serious.    "No, they won't." I pulled her away and brushed my hair out of my face.    "I hope so" she picks up the phone again and looks at me ". Ok so we ordered a vegetarian?"     I shrug, letting her choose. Not even if I want to, I don’t feel like eating.

Jane stays until nightfall, since she is calm that Seo-ah is coming to my house. According to her, she has promised me not to tell me anything about what I'm doing with Daliah's computer, just to be careful that Elliot doesn't find out what I'm doing or I'll get in trouble with the police again. She understands me better than anyone thanks to the fact that she knows what it is to lose a brother.    "Surely if I were in your situation, I would have also hacked into my brother's computer if he had hidden things from me." was what she told me when I explained why I'm doing it.     I might really risk ratting us out, but… I really don't know what else to do… I feel completely dejected and without Jake…

I receive a text from Seo-ah and sigh in relief. At least it's okay. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-----Seo-ah has connected-----

Seo-ah Sorry, it may take a little longer I've been talking to Mason about what happened 😔 He really isn't feeling well because of what happened to you.

MC No problem But please don't be long

Seo-ah Now I go I collect my things and I'm on my way 😊

MC Okay

Seo-ah See you

-----Seo-ah has disconnected----- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I put down the phone and I wait on the couch, closing my eyes to relax. But every time I do, Daliah shows up. I look at the sofa and get up quickly, remembering that she died on one, so I stay in my room waiting.

I look at the time and Seo-ah doesn't show up, where is she? I decide to send her messages. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MC Seo-ah? Where are you? I've been waiting an hour Let me know if something happened...

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

I leave my phone on loud in case I fall asleep waiting, though I don't think that will happen. I look ahead and see Daliah sitting up in bed, her neck red and her eyes sunken. Her paleness makes her bloodshot eyes stand out. She opens her mouth to speak, but she can't, she has a hard time doing it. I hide my face to avoid seeing her.

Jake…

Why have you left me?

*Jake POV*

I was going to reply to MC's messages telling me that Elliot is her friend and that she wanted to come to Evergreed, I wanted to tell her that it was a bit dangerous at the moment, but the door stopped me from sending her that message. They were knocking so frantically that it made me slowly open the door, finding Mike.    "What are you doing here?!" I ask nervously.    "We don't have time!" He pushes the door, entering.    "Hey! Can you explain to me what is going on?!"     Mike stops taking my stuff out of the closet and walks over to me.    "Rocco was in class when he saw them through the window" I pay attention to his words, he speaks very quickly ". Men going door to door, some in suits and others in uniforms with the word FBI on it" little by little I start to get nervous ", and they've never been to Evergreed."     So I start to go as fast as I can, turning off the computers and starting to put them away. Mike takes my things out of the closet, placing them on the bed and I pile everything into my backpack as best I can. This is not the time to order.    "How long do you think they have left to get to the hostel?" I ask nervously, as I put the computers in the bag of what I have left of equipment.    "If they were in the school area, probably about forty-five minutes" he closes my backpack as best he can and looks at me ". Thirty if any decide to sing that they has recognized you."     I mutter curses under my breath, pulling on my mask and hood. Then put on the gloves. I take out my cell phone and look at the chat. I have to let her know. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nym-0s Do not come to Evergreed anymore. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I send her quickly, to want to continue sending her an explanation.    "What are you doing?!" Mike asks me, pointing to the door "You'll explain it to her later!"     True, he is right. Unfortunately, it hurts me to read the messages that she has sent me when she notices that I doesn't answer her anymore. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MC What are you saying? Jake? Please! Don't tell me that! I need you! Now more than ever! I promise I won't side with Elliot again if it's for that! But don't tell me we don't see each other anymore! Please Jake! Don't do this to me now! I love you! Please! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I clench my jaw hard, hoping she will forgive me. But now I cannot use this cell phone, it is not safe. And I decide to do something unthinkable. To disappear from her life again, removing myself from the Nymos chat, leaving it as the program it was before.    “Come on, I will give you something to run away with.” I follow Mike running downstairs as we leave the room.     On the street, I see a black sidecar. Mike tosses me the key and I catch it.    "Here, it will help you to take the equipment."    I set the large duffel bag on the seat as I strapped the backpack onto my back, picking up the helmet.    "And this too" He hands me a new cell phone and I put it in the bag with the rest of the team. To which I quickly take out the card from my cell phone and destroy it ", the phone PIN is 3618, the number 60421."    “Thanks, Mike.” I tell him as I put my helmet on.    "And!" He hands me a piece of paper and I read it "Go to Colville. A woman lives in this building who will give you a apartment to hide in" I look at him doubtfully ". Tell her you're on my side and everything will be fine."     I nod and raise my hand.    “Good luck man, I'll be working on the program."     I accept his hand, giving it a shake. I miss doing this again.    "If MC comes to Evergreed, make sure she comes back to Rosenschwarz" I tell him in a serious tone ", she does not come here for a while."    "I'll keep her far away."     I remove my hand and start the sidecar. This is the worst thing that could have happened to me today.

And I am pretty sure who could have done this.

Elliot.

He has broken the deal we had and has given me away again, surely he has tracked my number What an idiot I have been! If he did it once for her, clearly he would do it again to get away from MC.

I have already traveled a long way, I think I can stop for a moment to look at my cell phone. I park and pull away from the road, pulling the item out of the bag. I flip up the visor and turn on the cell phone. At the moment, the only chat there is from Mike. As soon as I get to the safe place where he told me to stay, I will have to reprogram Nymos on my cell phone and contact MC. I just hope that she can forgive me for having sent her that message, I did not have time for further explanations. I put the cell phone away and start the bike again. There are a few kilometers to go. It is a little slower than going by train, but I am sure Mike thought they had been watching the train station. It is already lucky that I was able to evade the police control that was at the exit of Evergreed, I really had to go through alleys until I reached the highway. But the worst thing will be that it will take time to contact MC if I want to reassemble the equipment and program Nymos on the cell phone again. I will not be able to talk to her until tomorrow. A whole year's work wasted. I hope that the copy of the computer accepts to be installed in the new cell phone.

I arrive at the address of Colville. They are part of the suburbs. You can tell that it is a city by the amount of people there. I park the bike and take the travel bag, leaving the helmet on the bike. I call the first floor as indicated on the paper.    "Yes? Who is it?" asks an older lady on the intercom.    “I am here from Mike Vogt.” I answer, careful not to let anyone else hear me.     The lady lets out a sigh and opens the front door.    "This son of mine, what has he done now?" She says before hanging up the phone.    << Son?>>     I enter and the first thing I find is a lady with brown hair with few gray hairs and collected in a bun. She is big and she looks at me like she is glaring at me.    "And who are you?" She asks me, in a doubtful tone.    "I am just a friend of her son's" I reply, a little uncomfortable to admit. And that she reminds me of when my mother was going to give me the talk for having done something bad ". He said that you could help me-"    “I'm not a nun of charity, damn it!” She puts her hand to her head, and then she points to me “Okay, follow me."     She turns around at a steady pace and I obey her order. The place is even worse than the hostel, with torn and stained wallpaper.    "You would have seen" I hear how he murmurs ", always the same, I don't know who that boy has looks like, but I already tell you no to his father! He was such a wretch."     It makes me a little uncomfortable having to listen to this conversation. I do not think Mike would like me to hear his mother talk about these things with a stranger. We arrive at a door, and she takes out some keys with a number, taking 104 from the key ring.    "Here." I go to take it, but she pushes her away "But how are you going to pay me?"    "Well" I start talking nervously. This woman scares me more than the FBI ", I have some money."    "Some money?” She arches an eyebrow, looking at me doubtfully.    "It is not much-"    "Oh, no!" She puts the key in her neckline and she pushes me " Let's go! Here you pay or nothing!"    "The floors!" I quickly exclaimed "I can fix whatever you need in exchange for me staying!"     She stops and I see how she looks around the place. After me.    "Since my son has left his poor mother alone and helpless in charge of all this" her exaggerated way of speaking is almost pitiful "I suppose a handsome young man could help me in exchange for him staying here safe, yeah" .     I sigh with relief. It cannot be that it worked.

I enter the apartment after she enters, showing me the place. Is a bit old too, but at least you can tell she is coming to clean it up. I start to get my equipment out and put everything on the table, turning on Daliah's computer and mine, plugging them back in like before.    "Hacker, right?" The lady asks me, whose name she has not told me yet "Now I understand everything…"    “I am one of the good guys.” I answer clearly.    "Yes, I was too, now I'm retired thanks to the law" I blink surprised and she laugh "What? Did you think that Mike has learned from his father? I've taught that smart boy everything I know.” She holds out hwe hand in greeting ". Rudy Zimmerman"    "Delighted." I accept her hand and she looks at me doubtingly.    "No name?"    "I do not think it is a good idea to tell you" I answer, still without taking off my mask ", it would put you at risk."     She chuckles, walking over to the door.    "As if I care about risk at this point" she jerks his thumb out ". Remember the deal, tomorrow you start with the boiler room, kid." She winks at me and leaves.     I lower the mask and let out a long breath. I would never have thought of accepting help from other people knowing that she would put them at risk, but given the circumstances, I have no choice but to accept. I hope this does not bring consequences to her later.

I take out my cell phone and connect it to the other computer I have, starting to install Nymos.

Please, may MC be okay and they do not go after her again.

Chapter 25

[zarvasace]

PROGRESS POST

(10/4/23)

This is partly for accountability and partly just to get all this out of my head! This last month or two have felt so hectic, getting used to a new work and sleep schedule and all. I'm still not quite there.

If you're curious about what I've been working on and what my plans are in terms of writing and art for the rest of the year, read on. :)

I will say, though, that if you want more of a specific AU or story, the way to get it is by asking questions and leaving comments! Asks and comments remind me about things I'm doing and get me excited about them again! I have these plans, but I also am very good at chasing inspiration to unknown (and sometimes unimportant) corners!

By Fandom

Linked Universe Projects

I've been feeling less motivated to work on LU stuff, but I still plan on at least finishing what I have open, so you can look forward to some of that!

Writing

Disability AU—one small mobility trio fic in the works. A few vague ideas for doing backstory fics.

Council (1931 vampire AU)—this is still the "backburner to backburner" fic, but I do have some fun ideas. I just have been distracted with other things! I think this AU is a lot of fun and I'd love to do more with it. We'll have to see.

The Marvelous Misadventures of Wind and His Merry Band of Maybe-Human Misfits—chapter 7 (out of 9 or so) is in progress. I have it all outlined out, and it's fun to work on, but I have (again) been distracted! This is, I hope, going to be my main December project. It'd be nice to finish before it turns 2 years old next summer. Oops.

I have several other WIPs that aren't very exciting and probably won't see daylight, but they're there if I feel like them

Art

Coloring book—I'm part of the coloring book project! :) I have already finished 1/2 drawings, and they went so well, I'm considering doing more.

Shatterproof manga page—still on my radar! I'm doing the end scene from dazzling diamond danger, and my ambition keeps outgrowing my time.

Four Swords Projects

Writing

Fairytale AU—man I've started this Vidow BatB fic literally five times. I have an almost-complete draft sitting at like... 20k?? iirc, but I kind of hate a lot of it. I also like a lot of it. It's a bit difficult for me to work on rewriting something in that situation. Anyway. Another December thing probably.

Fright Fight—I have ideas for every week, but am currently unsure if I want to draw or write for them. Most of my October will be focused on filling these prompts!

Vampire Lords AU—I have strange as severe is this my fate open right now, with a fair amount of material... it just needs to be edited a bit. I do want to keep working on that, I've just... well. Distraction. A common theme. XD I might be feeling another little bite fic coming on, too.

Art

Fright Fight—see above

Fright Fight part 2—I have a few side things to do for this, like making graphics that I haven't quite finished yet. They shouldn't take long, I just gotta do em!

Non-Fandom

Stickers—I am in the process of drawing some stickers! Yay! These are for my work, but also just for me. I want some Halloween stickers. This is a backburner project.

Nanowrimo project—I need to spend some time figuring out a few things to really get going on my princess-verse. I'm going to be doing Nanolympics this year, so hopefully some of their preptober stuff will help!

Hearts Linked Together—my super-cool Linkverse. XD I love my dumb timeline, and all the characters, they're just filler drawings that I haven't had time to continue.

Secret Zelda project—I really really need to do this! I can't say much right now, but it involves a fair amount of work, both writing and art. I think I haven't gotten very far on it yet because I'm intimidated. Stop that.

Zine edits—I worked really really hard on an art piece for a LoZ zine coming up! This week is critique, and I anticipate a few edits later.

By Month

Facebook posts—a lady I know wants to commission pretty quote images to post on her Facebook. I need to reply to her text. And do them.

September

I primarily worked on the fic Blood-Sucker's Guide to High School. I also worked on and submitted one fic and one piece of art to two different zines, which I hope you'll see soon.

October

If you care, you may have noticed I'm not doing Whumptober this year! Part of this is because I'm a bit burned out from the above, and part of it is that the prompts just didn't seem very inspiring to me this year. Maybe that's just my mindset. I haven't been in a very whumpy mood.

I'm planning on filling weekly prompts for @fsfrightfight this month and maybe chipping away at some other fics, in addition to one more zine contribution. I'm also going to be planning for November and doing some scattered art work here and there.

November

NaNoWriMo! I considered skipping this... but I'm feeling really inspired and motivated to do it, especially with October as a break. I'm going to write some original work, and that will be the focus of my November. I'll likely get some other art done, too.

December

I hope to dedicate this month to finishing things up from this year! That means working on "backburner" projects.

[purpleeivy]

Day 31 of my Daily Drawing. Today it’s the Straw Hat Doctor and lil dude, Tony Tony Chopper!

If you look at the ref image you’ll see I didn’t add the first aid kit. This is cus I couldn’t be bothered to. :3.

Negatives - I wasn’t consistent enough with the sizes of his hands and legs/feet, so one arm is bigger than the other, same for legs. the head also goes too far to the right imo. although maybe i just moved the facial features too far to the left.

Positives - I love the shading, I think I did a good job with the antlers and the hat. I think his body is good proportion too.

Random bs

I know no one cares (yet, you will when it is finished cus it’ll be amazing), but the Stormlight anime im writing the script for is a lot harder than i thought it would be. I’m trying to have there be roughly 13 episodes, to take up to chapter 35, but it’s really hard. I might have to extend the episodes a bit more. If I decide to make it like Helluva Boss then I can have a lot more leeway, as the episodes are currently intended to be 22 minutes long, like a normal anime. I thought I could maybe add roughly 2 chapters per episode, some with 3 and a couple with 4, but I think I am severely overestimating how long 22 minutes actually is.

I think what I will do is that I’ll just write the script for the entire show, then once that’s done cut it down into actual episodes, editing a bit so that it makes sense and stuff. I’ll then start working on animating it which will be by far the longest, especially since I’m doing it just by myself, and that I have never done anything like this before. But fuck it we ball. I want a Stormlight anime and that’s not happening, so i’m doing the next best thing, who cares if it takes a few years.

Anyway, as always good morning, good afternoon or good evening and goodnight from me

love you all <3

(ref image)