#if he comes from a lower class background than now it's likely his mother was involved more

[thegoatsongs]

"The climactic fight is described by Mina, while the domestic ending about their son is described by Jonathan."

!!!!! Now that is fascinating

Right? There's so much about it! Jonathan heads to work at the start but also has his mind back home, jotting down recipes for his fiancee (while she's talking about honing her skills -even if it is "to be useful" we know how much she likes it- and about travel and her job) and then while safe at home he talks about family, child, marriage (and noting "happily", important to him), and notes down how gallant Mina is.

[sp0o0kylights]

Someone on Twitter proposed Steve and Gareth as cousins whose family had a major falling out, and then someone else brought it up recently and long story short no idea who to credit the idea too bc you can’t search for SHIT on Twitter but it's theirs not mine. 

Anyway I wrote a lil thing as a warmup 

PART TWO

"Why don't you come sit with Hellfire?" Gareth asked, angrily leaned against the bathroom wall while Steve fixed his hair.

He'd tried not to cling since he entered high school. Tried to keep things on the downlow, least any gossipy mouths started running. 

It was so stupidly, needlessly, hard. 

 His cousin was only two years ahead of him but they'd spent the last year in different schools because of it. 

 That year, and the lack of Steve's presence in it, had grated. Now that he finally had Steve back, Gareth was loathe to play by the rules. 

"Sit with you and Eddie, "the freak" Munson? I'll pass." Steve said, but there was no bite in it. 

That, Gareth knew, was because Steve was  using Eddie as an excuse. 

"You'd like Eddie if you spent five minutes with him, King Steve." Gareth fired back on automatic. His fingers dug into his arms, as he resisted the urge to pace around the bathroom floor. 

Unspoken was all the shit that had taken place.

Steve and Nancy's breakup. The rumor mill in overdrive, first about how Jonathan Byers had taken creep shot photos of them, then about how he'd taken his shot with Nancy herself. 

The supposed cheating, the public fights, the crazy background of Jonathan's little brother being missing. 

Billy Hargrove beating Steve to a pulp. 

Now friendless, Steve had thoroughly fallen from his place at the tippy top of the social hierarchy and between his utter lack of friends and his shit tier parents, Gareth was concerned. 

"You do not want me to sit with you, Gary. I'd tell all your little friends that you're apart of the royal family." Steve turned, making an exaggerated face. "How's Munson feel about cozying up to a Prince?" 

"I'd technically be an Earl, Steve, not a prince." Gareth grumbled. 

He got an eye roll in response. "Somehow I don't think he'll care." 

"I do though." Gareth blurted out, absolutely thoughtless. 

Steve blinked at him. 

"What?" He said. 

In for a penny right?

 "I care." Gareth said, looking down and scuffing a shoe, making it squeak against the grimy tiles. "About you. You dick." 

"Wow Gary you almost sounded loving there."

For once, he ignored the jab. "I'm worried about you, man." He said it quietly, the painful truth pulled out of him almost by force. 

He knew better than anyone how few people Steve had. Knew how his dad was likely taking all the crap Steve had been involved in lately. 

Richard Harrington hadn't been the wedge that had separated his and Steve's mother, but the man hadn't done them any favors, either. 

His intolerance towards the working and lower classes, his demand for perfection, the way he looked down his nose not just on Gareth's parents but on his own wife and son…

Gareth's mom didn't tolerate it. 

Likewise, Stella Harrington didn't tolerate her sister ruining her shot at being a rich trophy wife. 

Both their sets of parents were dramatic and neither of them weren't anywhere near the concept of "good" but at least Gareth's weren't neglectful and abusive. 

Shitty absolutely, but he never worried about getting thrown out, or that his mom wouldn't acknowledge his birthday because he'd "complimented her outfit the wrong way." 

(”It's fine dude she just thought I called her ugly. It was a miscommunication. Dad said it's a good lesson about how women work."

"Casual reminder that your dad's an asshole and also how is telling your mom that she looked lovely in the sunlight telling her she's ugly?”

“It implied she wasn't lovely the rest of the time or some shit, I dunno man.”) 

The BMW was a shitty prize when compared what Steve had dealt with to receive it. 

"I'm okay." Steve said seriously. "It's almost the end of the year anyways. I can tough out having some extra alone time." 

"If you're sure…"

"Yeah man, I'm sure. Thanks though."

Then Steve pulled him into a hug and fuck their parents, who demanded they continued some stupid grudge. Gareth clung to him just as hard as he had at ten. Unsure if he'd ever be allowed to see Steve again.

[yaksha-lover]

First Love/Late Spring

Summary: Having a gorgeous prince as a soulmate is practically a dream come true. Unfortunately for you, Leona doesn’t exactly care for things like fate and love.

Leona Kingscholar x Reader (Soulmate AU), background Malleus & Reader

CW: Leona is a jerk/toxic also possessive, mild discussion of class issues, unrequited love

His first words to you, written in beautiful script on your wrist, hadn’t made your mother excited at the prospects of your soulmate, but you hadn’t much cared about their brashness. Growing up, they were all you had to fantasize about as a distraction from your tedious life.

Meeting Leona had finally changed that, crumbling your hopes of his first words simply being a misunderstanding to dust.

You hadn’t grown up in the the Sunset Savanna, but you’d been able to catch glimpses of him here and there because of your place in Briar Valley’s court. The child of the Draconia’s head servant, you’d grown up in the halls of the castle, often attending to the royals while helping your mother. Despite your station, Malleus never treated you differently, often asking his grandmother to give you time off to play with him, for which she conceded with a smile and ruffle to her grandson’s head.

You remember the first time you’d seen Leona. He was merely a child of fourteen, a couple years older than yourself. Him and his brother had come for a diplomatic visit, the two princes strutting through the large halls. One brother warm and friendly, the other as icy as the snow that fell outside the castle that day.

Leona had caught your attention immediately. You watched him, transfixed as you hid behind the skirt of your mother. Your soulmate mark hadn’t even been at the front of your mind, but even then you’d felt an instinctual pull toward him. There was a sense of familiarity there, almost as though he was the prince you had grown up around and not Malleus, despite never having spoken to him.

Even as your mother forced you out from behind her to stand in a respectable line with the rest of the servants lowering themselves into a bow in front of the foreign princes, you couldn’t keep your eyes off of him.

Leona hadn’t glanced at you even once during that visit.

Years passed before you ever laid eyes on him again, but he would still grace your thoughts from time to time. Lord Malleus and the queen didn’t have guests very often, so his visit lingered.

You’d asked Malleus about him one day, wondering aloud about the second prince of the Sunset Savanna. The fae hadn’t known much. He’d also been strangely silent for the rest of the evening, so you wondered if perhaps you’d touched on a sore subject.

Those were the days when you were still a child and allowed to play alongside Briar Valley’s heir. Before your stations caught up with you. Back when you were allowed to be friends, instead of ruler and subject.

It was your own mother’s insistence, more than the queen’s, that forced you into days away from your childhood friend. Now that you were growing up, you had much to learn about how to run the domestic side of a kingdom, ensuring everything would be perfectly coordinated to keep the royals happy. After all, you were expected to replace your mother’s position and serve Lord Malleus after she passed.

Now, you rarely saw Malleus apart from when you were serving him his meals. When you’d bring him his breakfast in the morning, he’d try to chat with you, but you had to leave apologetically with all the chores you needed to do. You could tell by the softness of his voice, lacking in his usual amusement, that he was disappointed with your absence, but you hadn’t had much choice.

Once Malleus departed for NRC with Lilia, you saw him even less. Soon, Silver and Sebek followed, leaving the castle to have fewer familiar faces to liven your day. You weren’t a magic user, but you’d known that even if you were, you’d never have been allowed to leave the castle. No matter your circumstances, the one thing that kept you holding on was the fantasy of your soulmate coming to sweep you away from this life of simplicity.

-

When Malleus was in his last year of schooling, you turned eighteen and were permitted to temporarily visit Lilia and your prince.

Arriving at NRC, the two guided you to their dorm, where you would be staying for your visit. The other students had stared at you as you walked into Diasomnia; apparently it wasn’t common for anyone to have visitors, but the headmaster had made an exception for the Draconia’s.

All the other rooms were full for the school year, so Malleus agreed to let you stay with him, as he had his own single room.

As you unpacked your things, Malleus floated a second bed into the room. You thanked him softly, and he nodded in turn. It saddened you a bit, how things had become so distant between you and your childhood friend. You understood, of course, you were practically living in different worlds; his full of magic and royalty, yours of mundaneness and servitude. Despite the lack of time spent together, you hoped this visit would bring the two of you closer together again, dispelling some of the awkwardness you’d felt since returning to his presence.

After settling in, Lilia promised to take you on a tour of campus. Malleus had housewarden responsibilities to deal with, so he bid you a goodbye and left you alone in his room. Your eyes settled on the greyness of the walls; just like home. It seemed Malleus, too, found comfort in the familiar.

Lilia knocked on the door, smiling at you excitedly before pulling you into the hall, giggling all about the excitement to come. He showed you around the campus grounds, pointing out the different dorm uniforms and various areas he found interesting.

-

“Oh dear,” he suddenly remarked, “I’ve forgotten to remind Malleus of the housewarden meeting again.”

Lilia took your hand again, pulling you towards the other side of the school, despite your protests that Malleus had already known.

“Just one reminder isn’t typically enough for Malleus,” he said.

Soon enough, the two of you arrived in front of a small room. As Lilia tried to peek in the window to see if Malleus was already there, you approached the door, curious of this new place. Before you could look too closely at the name on the plaque, the door swung open, leading someone on the other side to crash into you.

The man managed to steady himself, but you fell backwards, landing painfully on your tailbone. You stared at the lion beastman, noting his strong build. His flowing brown locks fell across his shoulders, his cute ears perked on the top of his head. His piercing jade eyes were narrowed in judgement, but you found them beautiful all the same. He scoffed when he saw you sitting pathetically on the ground after your fall.

“Who the hell are you?” he glared.

The words rung in your ears, leaving you shell-shocked even as he awaited an answer. The words you’d dreamed of, over and over again, romanticizing every possibility and hoping they were different to what they sounded like. You couldn’t form a response, only staring up at your apparent soulmate, the prince from so many years ago, Leona Kingscholar.

“Whatever, I don’t care. Just get out of my way,” he huffed, leaving before you could even get a word in.

You’d heard rumours about Leona before, but it was hard to know which of them was true. People often said that Malleus would turn you to stone with one look, and that was the farthest thing from the truth.

Lilia, when you inquired briefly after Malleus’ silence on the topic, had informed you that Leona could supposedly be quite disagreeable. You hadn’t thought much of it then, let alone the words on your wrist.

Now, Lilia giggled for a moment, before helping you up. “That’s the Kingscholar fellow who visited Briar Valley when you were a child.”

“I know,” you replied, too lost in thought to realize your sleeve had slid up, allowing Lilia to catch a glimpse of the very words Leona had said a few moments ago.

He looked back at you, surprised. “Leona is-”

“So rude!” you interrupted him as Malleus exited the meeting with the rest of the housewardens. It seems Leona left as soon as he could, while the rest lingered behind for a moment. “Can you believe he knocked me over like that?”

“Kingscholar harmed you?” Malleus asked, approaching you. His eyes hardened as they scanned over your body, searching for injury. “I will take you to the infirmary.”

“No need,” you waved his concern off. “We just bumped into each other.”

Lilia watched the exchange between you two, and you held eye contact with him, imploring him not to share his discovery with the prince.

“You actually made it to the meeting, Malleus?” Lilia inquired, thankfully changing the topic.

“Yes. It seems having MC here reminded me.” Malleus smiled gently at you.

“I’m glad to be of service.” You smile back, happy a bit of the awkwardness built up from distance is going away.

“No,” Malleus said. “While you’re here, you’ll be under no one’s service. Certainly not my own.”

“Thank you. That means a lot, Mal,” you replied, using a nickname for him that you haven’t used since you were children.

The light dusting of pink that coloured his cheeks went unnoticed by you.

-

You stayed up that night, just thinking about your soulmate. All this time you’d wondered who it could be, only to find out you had already met him years ago. Not only that, you’d admired him. You wanted to deny it, but even back then you’d felt an intrinsic but inexplicable pull towards him.

You’d never considered it could be because he was your soulmate. After all, the two of you couldn’t be more different. Were you really destined to find him after being locked away in Briar Valley your entire life?

For better or for worse, Leona was yours. Even he couldn’t deny it with your first words to him presumably printed on his own forearm. Sure, your first encounter hadn’t been the best, but you’d probably just caught him at a bad time.

Despite your fears, you resigned yourself to try and talk to him at the next possible chance.

-

You’d thought about talking to Lilia about what to say to him, but you quickly dismissed the thought. As much as you loved him, you knew Lilia was hardly a romantic by anyone’s definition but his own.

Instead, you enlisted the help of Silver to point you towards the direction of Savanaclaw, Leona’s apparent dorm. Thankfully, he hadn’t asked too many questions and only wished you luck, dropping in a quick warning about avoiding angering anyone in the dorm. It seemed Savanaclaw had many strong fighters; it was no wonder someone like Leona was their leader.

Silver spotted a shorter boy as you approached the dorm, calling out to him. “Hello, Ruggie.”

The blond boy walked towards him, eyeing you by Silver’s side. “Silver. Who is this?”

“Malleus’ guest. They’ve come to see Leona.”

“Leona?” he questioned, turning to you. “Why do you want to see him?”

“I have my reasons,” you replied, not exactly wanting to tell this stranger about your relationship to his housewarden.

“No can do. Leona’s in a bad mood today. If you annoy him anymore, he’ll just take it out for me.”

“Thanks for taking me here, Silver. I’ll be okay on my own for now.”

Silver took the hint and stated that he’d see you back at Diasomnia, before heading off. You turned back to Ruggie.

“I’m his soulmate,” you revealed, pulling up your sleeve for him to examine Leona’s words. You hadn’t wanted to, but Ruggie looked awfully reluctant to take you before.

His eyes widened, suddenly much more aware of you. Ruggie’s eyes surveilled you top to bottom. “That does sound like him. Huh. I was beginning to think Leona didn’t have one.” He shook his head. “Okay, I’ll take you to his room. He would probably want me to. I think. But I’ve warned you, he’s not feeling good right now. You sure you still want to see him?”

You hesitated to reply for a moment. Your first interaction with him had gone terribly wrong. Your poor heart couldn’t risk another one, but you also knew if you waited even a day longer to speak to him you’d go stir-crazy.

“Take me,” you told him. You would need to face Leona sooner or later.

-

Leona’s room was huge in comparison to the others you’d passed by. Every surface seemed to be draped in luxury silks and handmade tapestries of only the finest quality. It’s high ceiling and fancy decor gave it an open feeling, but also one of impersonality. You couldn’t get a grasp on him at all.

He was sleeping when you entered, which should have been your first sign to turn and run. Warnings about ‘waking a sleeping beast’ and all. Ruggie had approached Leona, urging him quietly to wake up. Leona glared at him, until he turned and pointed at you, standing in the doorway.

“You again? Get out. Ruggie, what the hell? You just bringing anyone in here now?”

“I’m out of here,” Ruggie said, quickly leaving the room.

“What do you want?”

“My name is-”

He interrupted you, bored. “That’s not what I asked.”

“I’m your soulmate,” you blurted out. “Sorry, I know this isn’t the best way for us to officially meet but-”

Leona instinctively glanced down at his arm, furrowing his brow. Surely enough, the beginning on an introduction swiftly cut off was printed on forearm. He’d wondered about the abrupt end of the sentence back when he was younger. He took a few seconds to examine you as you stood rambling on.

“Do you really think I care? Being my soulmate doesn’t make you special. You’re just as pathetic as the rest of them.”

You hadn’t expected him to sweep you off your feet, but his cruel words cut deeper than you’d thought. You felt yourself tearing up, no matter how you tried to resist it.

“I’m sorry you feel that way. But I won’t stop trying, you know we’re meant to be toge-”

He glared, looking down on you. “You’re a pathetic little herbivore, through and through. Even if I cared about having a soulmate, do you really think I’d want you?”

It hurt, even though you think you’d known what was coming. To be rejected by one’s soulmate was unthinkable; did he truly find you that repulsive? You fled his room, not willing to hear anymore of his words.

Leona, exhausted from his day and only half-remembering this interaction, went back to sleep.

-

The next day, Ruggie found Leona napping in the garden.

“You know, that was harsh, even for you. Rejecting your soulmate? What were you thinking?”

“I know. Stop eavesdropping.”

“Whatever. I think Malleus is on warpath now that you’ve broken the heart of his guest.”

“Malleus’ guest, huh?”

“Yeah. Apparently they were raised as a servant in his castle.”

“That lizard has been ordering around my soulmate?”

“Now you care?” Ruggie asked, exasperated.

“Fine, I overreacted yesterday. You caught me at a bad time. It’s not a big deal.”

“I think Malleus would disagree.”

“Will you shut up about him?”

“I’m pretty sure your soulmate would too.”

“…”

“You fucked up, man.”

“Whatever. It’s either disappointing them now, or disappointing them later. They’ll get over it.”

“Why’d you even say that stuff about not wanting them as a soulmate? They’re certainly attractive, and seemed nice enough.”

“I needed to get rid of them and finish my nap.”

“Once again, you’ve fucked up.”

Leona glared at him. “I told you, I know. My soulmate was bound to hate me at some point or another. Why disappoint them by letting them get to know me and then finding out? Plus, I don’t need someone dragging me down with sappy shit and more responsibilities like dates and anniversaries.”

“Dude, soulmates are literally designed to love you. I know this is rich coming from me, but maybe don’t be such a jerk for once.”

With that, Ruggie left Leona behind to stew in his thoughts.

-

“Malleus,” you cried into his shoulder. “He doesn’t want me. My own soulmate!”

You’d been able to mostly hold it together when you returned to Diasomnia, but after Malleus had asked you what was wrong as you were about to sleep, all the pent up feelings burst through in waves of angst and regret.

“Kingscholar has always been a brute. You deserve far better.” Malleus stroked a hand gently over your head, moving to wiping away stray tears from your cheek.

“No, no, he’s right. Why would he want to be with me? I’m just a pathetic magicless human, there’s no reason-”

“Stop,” Malleus orders sharply. “I will not allow you to talk about yourself in this manner.” He leaned in to pull you into his arms, whispering gently into your ear. “Anyone, prince or not, would be the luckiest in the world to have you. I wish you might see yourself as I do, my dear.”

“Malleus,” you sighed, missing the true meaning of his words and instead plunging the knife deeper, “sometimes I wish you were my soulmate instead of him.”

He only dared to speak his response once you were well asleep, snoring from across the room.

“As do I.”

-

Over the last few days of your visit, you tried your best to avoid Leona, but it proved more difficult than one would think. No matter where you went, he seemed to appear, watching you from across the field or cafeteria or classroom. Thankfully, Malleus stayed by your side the entire time.

That was, until he was once again forced to attend to housewarden duties. Feeling the need for fresh air, you resigned yourself to taking a walk around campus.

Unfortunately, you managed to run into Leona again. Without Malleus by your side, he finally approached you. Knowing that you would be forced to face him eventually, you waited for him to speak.

“Where’s your guard dog?” he asked dryly.

“Busy. What do you want?” you echo his words back at him.

“The real question is what do you want? First you come around claiming to be my soulmate, now you’ve got the lizard’s scent all over you. What, you want him instead?”

You glared at him. How dare he act like you were in the wrong after what he’d said to you. “And if I do?”

Your words lit a fire in his eyes, replacing the tired apathy. “You want Malleus? Too bad. I’m the one the universe designed for you. You belong to me, and no one else.”

Taken aback by his response, you replied: “What’s your problem? You’re the one who rejected me.”

“Maybe I’ve changed my mind about you.”

“And if I have too?”

“Take it up with the universe, I guess.”

“Screw you.” You’d thought, hoped, that he might try for an apology. You suppose the words on your wrist had been a warning instead of an opportunity.

“MC.” He called your name as you started walking away. “I know you feel what’s between us. I never really believed in this ‘fate’ shit, but I even I can’t deny it. Why do you think I approached you? I guess I can’t help it. I don’t know a thing about you, and it pisses me off that I want to.”

You stand rooted in place by his confession. He’s been horrible to you, and yet his words ring true. You do feel it, no matter how much you don’t want to. You want to be near him, getting some kind of sick pleasure out of how he’s been hovering around you the past few days.

“You know we’ve met before. Back in Briar Valley.”

“I know.”

“You know?”

“Obviously. You know, I never wanted to go on that dumb visit. Father insisted, but now I know, everything was done to put as together, MC. No matter how much we try to stay away from each other, no matter how angry we make each other, we’ll also belong to each other, and I think you know that.”

You are his and he is yours. Those green eyes look at you, and you know your decision has already been made.

“You have a lifetime of things to make up for, and we’ve only just met.”

“I know,” he smirks. “Good thing for you, soulmates are for life.”

[bakawitch]

Oh my god

Au where after Mr Bakura fuckin dies from ring/zorc exposure (dsod) and Yami Bakura/Zorc kills Shadi (and the child cult???) Ryou is left alone in the temple. A few days later, representatives from the Ishtar clan arrive, and they decide to take Ryou in since a Millennium Item chose him as its true host. So underground he goes!

Upon his arrival, Forefather (Mr Ishtar) tries to take away the ring from him because surely this heathen can't be the one true bearer of the ring, but the ring spikes dig themselves into poor baby Ryou's chest so that's a no go. Ryou is down for a few days, and Rishid ends up taking care of him during that time. Malik barges in once, demanding Ryou to play with him, but Rishid manages to persuade him to leave Ryou to recover.

After he gets back on his feet, Forefather graciously allows him to keep the ring, and he gets adopted into the Ishtar clan to the same degree as Rishid. So he's sort of like a lower class servant? Rishid and Ryou grow closer while he teaches Ryou about his duties and chores, while Malik gets increasingly more jealous in the background because Rishid is paying some newcomer kid more attention than him. It gets even worse for him when Isis starts babying the timid kid despite Ryou literally being older than him and not even being the sane class as them. He gets a bit more aware of his alter, and he starts getting more withdrawn.

Something happens, which causes Ryou and Malik to get trapped in an abandoned dark room together, and they are forced to confront each other. Malik is fully on the offensive, but Ryou is mostly just trying to diffuse the situation. Malik freaks out when their oil lamp flickers, but Ryou manages to distract him with stories of the surface world. They talk a little, and Ryou opens up about the ring and the voices which Malik can sort of relate to. After the light burns out, Malik nearly snaps and switches, but his new friend(?) is able to soothe him with a big warm hug and maybe lullabies his mother used to sing to him and Amane. Rishid and Isis manage to find them.

Plot progresses as usual, but now Ryou is present. He goes up with Malik and Isis to the surface to show them around and unconsciously lifts the motorcycle magazine Malik liked. When they go back down, they see the Forefather nearly killing Rishid and Malik snaps. Yamima comes out to front and catches the whip midair before it could strike them. Yami B also subtly takes over just in case to protect the host body and to observe. Yamima gets the rod but is embarrassingly clumsy with it, clumsy enough to warrant Bakura tell him the key to using it properly. Isis is mortified but quickly puts two and two together and realises that the baby is possessed by a fuckin demon. Yamima does the murder/skinning bit, and Bakura just laughs. He says goodbye and gives control back to Ryou while Yamima goes after Rishid. Ryou again manages to calm him down and Rishid whisks them away after he comes to, leaving Isis and the rest of the clan behind.

Ryou and Malik grow up and start the Ghouls together. Bakura takes care of a lot of food and resources in the early days, but Ryou eventually learns from him and becomes just as good. He's also trying to tame Yamima part-time, which is not going as well as he'd like.

Timeskip to when Yugi lends the puzzle to the museum. Malik gets notified of the completed puzzle being exhibited in Japan, so he sends Ryou ahead to scout and establish himself as a friendly face to Yugi. The rest of the plot again progresses as normal with the difference of Ryou being a bit more cheeky and pushier than in canon, Bakura and him actually working together and an extra reveal of him being involved Malik the whole time.

I'm gonna cut it off here because I don't know how to continue from here... But rest assured, there's definitely some weird ass conspireshipping dynamics involved here XD

[stepmarchen]

Comparing different POVs of Shuri's first day at the Neuschwanstein Manor

potential spoilers below:

Narrative POV (above and below):

As Johannes narrates, we get this sickening visual of Shuri arriving at the manor. She's wearing a hat, a symbol in literature of her newfound noble class. It casts her in shadow and engulfs her small head. The bow tied neatly under her chin like a flamboyant collar to her new life.

And unlike the other POVs, she is completely alone, standing before the looming golden manor. A heavy wind blows against her, pushing her forward, forcing her towards the steps. She's stricken with unease, knowing that something larger than life is awaiting her.

Shuri's POV:

"In the beginning it might have been an obligation." - Shuri to Jeremy (ch. 54) "He is the first man I met... who as courteous... and kind." - Shuri (ch. 86)

Shuri's carriage ride to the Neuschwanstein Manor is briefly shown in a fleeting memory. Just from the single panel alone, we see a complex emotion on Shuri's face. She's not giddy to be dressed in pretty clothes or to ride a fancy carriage like Johannes' POV would suggest.

She was just abandoned by her family in exchange for a dollar amount. There was no time for goodbyes or to process that she would be leaving a life of poverty. The man she just met is now sitting before her, as her husband. It was just yesterday that she was daydreaming what her future might look like. She would've never expected things to change so quickly.

Gwen's POV:

"I was born and raised in Neuschwanstein Mansion. I've been a maid since I was young. I've heard many stories, regardless if I wanted to or not. I've always felt a little lonely, a loneliness similar to Milady's. When Milady first arrived, even though it was a little embarrassing, I thought I could understand. I wanted to help you" - Gwen to Roberto (ch 13)

Gwen might just be the closest age peer in the manor during Shuri's move-in. She may be sympathetic towards Shuri given her own backstory, but due to her lower status, Gwen's POV is quite detached from what we might expect. But that gives us our only unbiased take on the situation.

Even from a neutral standpoint, Shuri looks small and wide eyed, unlike the poise of the master of the household. She holds her wrist anxiously awaiting introductions. Even as a maid who lived her whole life around nobles, she's embarrassed and taken aback from the situation. After all, her master took off on a vacation alone and returned with a new wife less than a third of his age.

Jeremy's POV, imagination:

"She was sold at age fourteen. She had no connections... and it wasn't out of love... It wasn't her choice to get married... and then... she became the mother of us four siblings. Has any one of us really thought about what Shuri went through... and how she was feeling?" Jeremy to Elias (ch 100)

During Jeremy' investigation of Shuri's background, he discovers the transaction between her parents and his father. Roberto reports this with a flustered expression, likely crossed between accidentally making the late Marquess look strange in front of his eldest son.

He never saw Shuri during that first day at the Mansion. But he knew enough to draw his own conclusions: his father had replaced his mother. But now that he knows the truth... and Shuri's sacrifices. He's taking account of just how young she was, just how innocent she must have been. A young girl with a bright future ahead of her, only to be ruined by the heavy burdens of his wretched family affairs.

Jeremy's version of Shuri is angelic, idolized even. He wouldn't know the feelings she experienced that day. Wouldn't come close to being able to imagine it. She has always done the most to make sure him and his siblings would never have to suffer the hardships she was put through.

[winxanity-ii]

⌜Know No Evil | Chapter 11 Chapter 11 | class 1-b assemble⌟

╰ ⌞🇨‌🇭‌🇦‌🇵‌🇹‌🇪‌🇷‌ 🇮‌🇳‌🇩‌🇪‌🇽‌⌝

❘ prev. chapter ❘༻✦༺❘ next chapter ❘

The shrill blare of your alarm ripped through the pre-dawn silence, jolting you awake.

Groaning internally, you swatted at the offending clock, silencing its insistent screeches. Sunlight, still faint but determined, peeked through the blinds, casting long shadows across your room.

With a practiced sigh, you threw back the covers and swung your legs over the edge of the bed.

Stretching out the kinks in your sleep-stiffened muscles, you made your way to the bathroom, the familiar routine already in motion.

A quick splash of cool water on your face washed away the remnants of sleep, momentarily pulling you back to reality. As you leaned closer to the mirror, a pair of gleaming yellow eyes stared back at you, their vibrancy a stark contrast to your dark morning hair.

For a fleeting second, a genuine smile tugged at the corners of your lips, a rare glimpse of the person you might have been under different circumstances. But it faded as quickly as it came, replaced by the practiced, overly sweet smile you reserved for the world.

The one that said 'approachable,' 'unassuming,' 'harmless.'

"Today's the starting point," you murmured to your reflection, your voice barely a whisper.  A pause. Then, with a glint of steel flickering in your eyes, you added in a more determined tone, "Set. Match." With a predatory grin splitting your face, you turned away from the mirror, the mask firmly in place.

☆

☆

A flurry of activity filled the air as you tore down the stairs, your backpack already slung over one shoulder.

The crisp morning air hit you like a slap as you burst into the kitchen, where a familiar scene unfolded.

Your father, clad in his usual worn pajamas, sat hunched over the breakfast table, a steaming cup of coffee cradled in his hands as he wrestled with the morning newspaper.

Across from him, your mother, her face a whirlwind of nervous excitement, was practically chattering his ear off.

"And then Mrs. Tanaka said..." her voice trailed off as you cleared your throat, announcing your presence with a simple, "Good morning."

Mei's head snapped up so fast it looked like it might go into orbit. A gasp escaped her lips, and in a flurry of motherly fuss, she scurried over to you.

"Oh, ____! You look so grown-up in your uniform!" she exclaimed, her voice reaching an octave higher than usual. "Just look at you, so prestigious! Come stand still, sweetie, let me get a picture!"

Before you could protest, a camera materialized from somewhere in the depths of her apron pocket. Clicks filled the air as she snapped pictures from every angle, cooing and fussing over your appearance all the while.

Finally, with a satisfied sigh, she lowered the camera and wrapped a possessive arm around you.

"Now let me look at you properly! My little hero-in-training~" she declared, pulling you closer and scanning your uniform as if searching for imaginary lint.

Turning to your father, who hadn't bothered to look up from his newspaper the entire time, she practically shoved you towards him.

"Look, Winnie! Doesn't our precious daughter look so studious?"

Your father grunted a reply that sounded suspiciously like, "Whatever," before promptly burying his face back in the paper.

Rolling your eyes internally, you suppressed a sigh. This was the usual morning routine—a frantic mix of excitement and overbearing worry from your mother, and stoic indifference from your father.

Mei continued to fuss over you, brushing non-existent dust off your uniform and launching into a nervous diatribe about the best train route to take, the safest paths to navigate, and the importance of a healthy lunch.

Ignoring most of it as background noise, you nodded in the appropriate places, your practiced smile never faltering. As your mother prattled on, your mind drifted back to the one time your father offered a shred of positive acknowledgment regarding your existence.

It was a few weeks after you'd revealed your 'Quirk', and despite this being another milestone of you becoming independent, your mother's insistence on homeschooling remained unwavering.

Honestly, it wasn't a hardship. The limited time she allowed you outside, usually supervised trips to the park, were all you needed to hone your control.

You practiced subtly manipulating pigeons to steal unattended snacks, turning them into feathered little thieves under your silent command.

Neighborhood dogs inexplicably changed their walking routes to avoid you, and the occasional snot-nosed kid found themselves inexplicably tripping over their own shoelaces just before making a rude comment about your lonesome habit.

While you reveled in the freedom homeschooling offered, the thought of entering a real school had always held a certain appeal. You knew you couldn't stay hidden forever.

School was where first impressions were made, where social circles formed, and where the building blocks of a person's reputation were laid.

Being homeschooled, existing in a bubble on the fringes of your age group, did little to establish a positive image.

In fact, it probably did the opposite, increasing the chances of ostracization when—or if—you eventually entered the traditional school system.

So, with a little well-timed pressure from your father and a few strategically placed questions from you, your mother finally caved.

You were enrolled in the closest elementary school, a decision that both excited and terrified you. It would be your first foray into the real world, your first opportunity to test your abilities on a larger scale, and your first chance to truly blend in.

Looking back, it was truly a turning point.

Homeschooling had provided a safe haven to hone your quirk, but school—oh, school was a whole new playground, filled with endless possibilities for manipulation and subtle control.

U.A. might be the ultimate goal, but those early days in elementary school were where you truly learned the art of playing the game.

The shrill beep of the kitchen timer sliced through your reverie. Blinking, you plaster a soft smile grow on your lips, brushing off your mother's worries with a practiced ease. "Don't worry," you assured her, your voice a soothing balm. "I'll be careful, I promise."

With a final squeeze of your arm, you made your way towards the doorway, shedding the comfort of your slippers in favor of your outdoor shoes.

Stepping outside, you were greeted by a brilliant sunrise, its golden rays washing over you in a warm embrace.

Your school uniform looked immaculate against the familiar backdrop of your home. A soft grey blazer, its sharp lapels catching the morning light, framed a crisp white shirt beneath. A neatly knotted red tie, the color a bold contrast to the pale grey, added a touch of formality.

As you moved, the pleats of your skirt seemed to dance in the gentle breeze, a subtle play of light and shadow following your every step. Dark socks climbed elegantly up your calves, their sleek darkness giving way to the polished brown loafers that graced your feet. Even the leather of your shoes, catching a sliver of the golden sunlight, seemed to gleam with an unspoken purpose.

A crown of fluffy, pale red twists adorned your head, their unique color catching the early morning light. Worn in a half-up/half-down style, the tendrils framed your face like a pair of fiery question marks. The remaining loose strands danced in the breeze, whispering secrets only you could understand.

☆

☆

The train ride to U.A. was a blur of efficiency. You slipped seamlessly into the morning commute, the crispness of your uniform adding a touch of formality to the crowded train car.

One or two students sporting the same U.A. uniform as yourself caught your eye, their eyes alight with nervous excitement.

As you stepped onto the hallowed grounds of the prestigious hero school, the air crackled with a tangible energy—a mix of nervous anticipation and raw ambition that sent a thrill coursing through you.

For a moment, you stood rooted in place, your gaze sweeping across the sprawling campus.

The imposing buildings, the state-of-the-art training facilities, the vibrant energy of the students milling about—it was all a bit surreal. So many faces, so many paths, so many possibilities.

A wicked smile, as sharp and calculating as a predator sizing up its prey, slowly spread across your face.

You couldn't wait to find out what opportunities U.A. presented, what pawns you could manipulate on the grand chessboard of this hero course.

The chatter of excited students filled the air as you entered Class 1-B. A few heads turned momentarily, registering your presence before they returned to their animated conversations.

You moved with an air of practiced nonchalance, heading straight for the back of the classroom. With a silent step, you took an empty seat, settling in to observe and wait.

It didn't take long for things to kick off. Just as you were getting comfortable, the classroom door slid open with a hiss.

A familiar face, blonde hair framing periwinkle eyes, filled the doorway.  The moment your eyes met, a furious blush erupted on his face. "You!" he roared, his finger pointed accusingly in your direction.

The entire class fell silent, their attention immediately snagged by the dramatic entrance and the unexpected accusation, eyes bouncing between you and the newcomer.

You arched a perfectly sculpted eyebrow, letting out a single, amused, "Me?"

The boy, clearly flustered by your nonchalant response, took a tentative step towards your desk.  He sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck, his bravado momentarily deflated instead replaced by a nervous squeak.  "Uh, s-sorry about that," he stammered, his voice cracking slightly. "I just... I didn't expect to see you here."

You propped your head onto your left hand, tilting it ever so slightly to the side. Through your lashes, you cast him a glance, your yellow eyes gleaming with a hint of amusement.

His brash demeanor seemed to have completely evaporated, replaced by a nervous fidgeting, a far cry from the confident smirk you remembered from the entrance exam.

"I-I'm Monoma Neito," Monoma stuttered even more under your scrutiny; he quickly averted his gaze, unable to hold your curious stare for any longer.

Taking a deep breath, Monoma straightened his shoulders in an attempt to regain his composure. A smirk, practiced and slightly too smug for your liking, reappeared on his face.

Leaning down slightly, he lowered his voice to a conspiratorial whisper.  "Never did catch your name," he murmured, a hint of his earlier arrogance peeking through.

You met his gaze head-on, a slow, playful smile gracing your lips. Your voice, a low purr that sent shivers down the spines of a few nearby classmates, responded with a calculated sweetness.  "Don't remember offering it, do you?" you countered, your words more of a playful challenge than a genuine answer.

Just as Monoma was about to open his mouth, presumably to fire back a witty retort, he was interrupted by the sudden arrival of a young man with a shock of messy gray hair. "Hey! I recognize you!  You're the one from the physical portion of the exam! The way you took down those robots—it was so manly! I haven't seen someone use their Quirk like that before!"  He pumped his fist in the air, his enthusiasm infectious.

Monoma's face falls blank, his lips twisting into a scowl. He mutters a frustrated, "Hey, I was talking to her—" but his sentence is once again cut off.

"Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu, by the way!" Tetsutetsu added, his grin widening even further if that were possible.  "Nice to officially meet you!"

Before you could even formulate a response, the classroom erupted in a flurry of activity. Students who had been hesitant to speak earlier were suddenly animated, discussing their Quirks, the upcoming lessons, and the thrill of being at U.A. High.

The air crackled with a nervous energy, but it was an energy filled with a shared dream—the dream of becoming a hero.

Just as the classroom reached a peak of noise, the door slid open once more. This time, a man with messy crimson hair and a bored expression entered the room; all eyes turned to their new teacher, the infamous Blood Hero: Vlad King—Kan Sekijiro.

His usual bored expression was momentarily replaced by a hint of amusement as he surveyed the scene. Clapping his hands together once, a sharp crack that silenced the room in an instant, Kan cleared his throat and began his introduction.

"Alright, settle down, everyone," he drawled, his voice laced with a hint of sarcasm. "Welcome to the Hero Course, Class 1-B. For those of you who haven't figured it out yet, you're not in the cream of the crop. You're the backups, the also-rans. But hey," he continued, a wicked grin spreading across his face, "that shouldn't discourage you. Consider it a built-in motivator. Work hard, push yourselves, and maybe, just maybe, you'll prove yourselves worthy enough to join the illustrious ranks of Class 1-A."

A murmur of discontent rippled through the class, some students exchanging nervous glances. Kan, however, remained unfazed. He continued to explain the differences between the Hero Course tracks, emphasizing the constant competition that would fuel their training and the possibility of eventually transferring into Class 1-A, either through academic achievement or by impressing the teachers during the upcoming Sports Festival.

A chubby young boy with short, ice-blue hair and a perpetually apologetic expression hesitantly raised his hand. "Uh, excuse me, Kan-sensei?" he stammered, his voice barely a whisper.  "What exactly is the Sports Festival?"

Kan's lips stretched into an even wider grin.  "Ah, Shōda-kun," he drawled, his voice dripping with amusement.  "All in good time, my boy. All in good time. Just trust me, things will make much more sense sooner or later."

With that cryptic statement hanging in the air, Kan clapped his hands once more. "Alright, that's enough chit-chat for now. Time to get moving. Everyone up and on their feet. We'll be heading to freshman orientation, where you'll all get a chance to mingle with your fellow heroes-in-training from the other classes. Consider it a chance to make some new allies... or perhaps size up your potential competition."

A buzz of excitement rippled through the class as students shuffled to their feet, eager to explore the vast U.A. campus and meet their fellow aspiring heroes.

You joined the throng, a sly smile playing on your lips. This orientation was more than just an opportunity to socialize; it was a chance to gather information, assess your competition, and potentially forge some strategic alliances.

As you filed out of the classroom and down the hallway, your gaze drifted out a nearby window to your left. There, across a sprawling field, stood another class.

A glint of spiky blonde hair instantly gave away your target—Bakugo. He stood out like a sore thumb, next to a disheveled man wrapped in a sleeping bag, presumably his teacher.

Even from this distance, you could practically hear Bakugo's trademark scowl and boisterous personality.

Curiosity piqued, you subtly extended your senses. With practiced control, you focused on the hearing of a bird flying past the window. As it swooped down towards the field, you hijacked its senses for a brief moment, eavesdropping.

A smirk played on your lips as the information filtered through your mind.

Quirk apprehension test, huh?

A loud, explosive shout of "Die!" then cut through the air, followed by the unmistakable whoosh of a ball.

Snapping out of your eavesdropping, you refocused on the present, rejoining your classmates as they continued their trek towards the auditorium for the freshman orientation.

☆

☆

As the final school bell echoed through the halls, signaling the end of the day, you were gathering your things, a sense of satisfaction settling over you.

The first day at U.A. had been filled with competition and unexpected encounters.

You bid farewell to any lingering classmates, their voices fading into a background hum as you exited the classroom.

Stepping outside, the setting sun casts a warm glow, bathing you in a light gold. The day's events replayed in your mind—the whirlwind of information, the competition, and other things.

A sly smile played on your lips as you spotted a spiky-haired figure leaning nonchalantly against the school gate.

It was Bakugo.

Lips curling a bit in amusement at the image of the notoriously impatient explosive boy acting as your personal escort, you began heading towards him, not wanting to keep him waiting any longer.

After all, a well-trained puppy shouldn't be left waiting.

As you stepped into clear view of Bakugo, the boy's scowl softened a fraction, morphing into a begrudging acknowledgment. A low grunt escaped his lips, a sound that somehow managed to convey both annoyance and a gruff hello.

Without a word, the two of you fell into step beside each other.

Walking shoulder-to-shoulder with Bakugo, you listened patiently as he ranted about everything that happened on his first day. It was a one-sided conversation, a verbal explosion detailing his observations of his new classmates and their Quirks.

You learned about a nerdy-looking kid named Mineta who could trap people with his hair, a girl with zero gravity, and even a hulking dude who could increase his muscle mass.

Then came the surprise.

"Apparently, Deku," Bakugo spat the name with venom, "has a Quirk now too."

A flicker of genuine interest sparked in your eyes, hidden behind your carefully constructed mask of innocence.

This was unexpected.

This changed things.

You couldn't wait to see what other secrets Midoriya were hiding.

A/N: my bbys in 1-b so underappreciated 😤

[redfoxwritesstuff]

Further to your post I would like a backstop of MisD

Back story on MisD? There's so much unsaid on MisD lol

Reader is of caucasian skin tone (needed for the racial dynamics but if you can suspend belief and see her in another general skin tone and build a world for you where those dynamics still work be my guest)

Reader comes from a lower middle class family in the north and was married to Laurence after a short courtship in a arranged marriage when she was just 16 years old and he was 19. She had big dreams of love and life but as the abuse started on their wedding night, she quickly became a shell of herself, believing that this was simply what marriage was like. And for too many women in that time period, that *is* what marriage was like. At the point of MisD, reader and L have been married six years and the abuse has slowly built though there was never love nor passion between them.

Laurence comes from a upper middle class family that ran a generational marketing firm. His father died and had passed the firm onto four years into their married life. Two years into their married life, Laurence was struck by a car resulting in a minor but painful back injury that continues to occasionally pain him, resulting in a standing prescription for Laudanum, a opiate pain killer.

Alastor is few years older than Laurence, raised by a now deceased single mother when his father seemed to up and leave. A man of mixed race, though with skin on the fairer side that allows him to take hold of opportunities that otherwise would be closed to him. As he inches closer to 30, the question of when he will settle down and wed or if there is something wrong with him is pressing down from society. Of course, as a sex neutral, positive leaning demi ace man who lacks all of the vocabulary to understand that, he's just waiting out for the point where he's seen as a mysterious lost cause. He's had a series of public entanglements, all women picked for either a few nights or a longer courtship based on the knowledge that they'd talk and reinforce his reputation as a man- none of the women he had bothered to get to know on a personal level though all were treated well. As a young man Alastor worked labor jobs while working to get his foot in the door in radio, once he did he quickly became a rising star. As long as his activities in the shadows remains uncovered, Alastor is living a dream life for a man of his background.

Have backstory questions on MisD or any other fic? Send a ask! Find out what's hiding on the cutting room floor...

[ronearoundblindly]

a jimmy for you 😌🤲🏻💕

Alrighty, I get that I have not posted any real story for Common Education but this pic is giving me vibes. Warnings for zero editing and GOOD CHRIST sexual tension. WC ??? It's not long.

Sad Sack, a Common Education headcanon/thing/idk

So imagine you're older-student-Jimmy Dobyne's history professor and you've had a few instances of realizing that he is not at all like your typical student based on his background. He knows hard labor. He knows early mornings and long days. He does not know partying or really getting out of the comfort zone of similar-minded people. Jimmy's roommate, Steve Rogers, being an artsy nerd is a bit of a stretch as is.

Imagine that the first big paper was due last week in your class, and Jimmy did...okay.

He's good at memorization, like a lot of college freshmen, but he's not been asked to analyze very much. His paper didn't give any insight or opinion, and you critiqued it as nicely as possible because you are rooting for Jimmy (probably more than you should). You want this young man to succeed.

Jimmy does not take it well.

You don't see him two classes in a row which means he's now missed a week. Yes, you videotape lectures for kids like Steve Rogers who have reason to not come into class frequently. Yes, Jimmy hasn't missed any assignments at all and his grade average is perfectly fine.

You're still worried.

So you spend more time than normal at that little bakery you first met him at, arriving a little earlier, staying until the last second before you have to get to your classroom. No Jimmy.

Finally, you brave asking Noah, one of the bakery employees, if he's seen Jimmy around.

Noah looks very confused.

"Yeah," he scoffs, "I love that guy. I haven't had back pain all week."

When you return an equally bewildered stare, Noah points toward the back.

"He's right out there."

You crane your head over the counter and lower your voice. "May I?" You point through the building. "Do you mind?"

You think perhaps...well, you don't know what to think as Noah leads you carefully through the kitchen and to the alleyway beyond.

Sure enough, there's Jimmy, hauling enormous sacks of flour off the back of a truck and just shooting the shit with the delivery men all taking a smoke break whilst your student does their jobs for them.

You don't mean to, but you hiss his name like a disappointed mother.

"What are you doing?" As the other workers around seem more interested in what such a professional, pristine lady is doing out on their loading bay, you step closer to continue asking, "Why haven't you come to class?"

Does he need the money? You thought he had enough of a scholarship to cover living expenses. It's not as if the man still donning his farm shirts and stained henley is a big spender.

He ignores you until tossing the flour onto a dolly Noah then rolls inside.

"Look, Teach--" Jimmy takes off his trademark hat to wring in his hands, calling out to the workers by the truck "--one sec, boys."

He juts his head out to lead you deeper into the alley, then crosses when he realizes that's near the dumpster.

"I'm not..." Jimmy pulls a pack of cigarettes from his back pocket, tapping one out and putting it between his lips. He doesn't light it. "I don't think I'm cut out for this. I don't know why I came here."

"Is this because of one paper? Did something happen in another class?" You stop yourself from ripping the smoke right out of his mouth so he'll look you in the eye.

Jimmy shakes his head and does it for you, rolling his tongue over chapped lips and then holding them in.

"No, ma'am."

You relax a little, waiting for him to elaborate. You're waiting the whole time Jimmy mulls over his cigarette. He takes out a lighter and then thinks better of it and shoves it back in his pants, leaving the hand buried in his pocket.

"Can't have you thinking of me like that," he mumbles. "Like what if I just get worse? What if I'm stupid and...I don't want you to see me that way."

His concern warms you inside, hitting lower than that heat of appreciation should.

You sigh, trying not to allow your smile to read as dismissive.

"You are not stupid, Jimmy. You proved that long before you walked into my class. You're skilled and curious. You work hard. You could never fail that way. You could certainly never--" you clear your throat "--fail me."

He looks everywhere else but at you, shyly adjusting the brim of his hat again.

"You're just saying that."

No, in fact, you shouldn't be saying that. You shouldn't be having any hushed conversation in a back alley with one of your students, but you can't stand the thought of Jimmy giving up. He deserves this. He deserves options and a way to elevate himself. He deserves to choose his own path beyond the plot of farm he's only known.

"Come back to class," you beg, chancing to reach out and grasp the arm--that thick, veiny, strong forearm--which fiddles with a cigarette like a silver dollar dancing between his fingers. You could be hypnotized by those hands, how they move, what they can do. "Please."

He flexes in your hold.

"You want me?"

His deep voice should not spark the high jump your heart does.

"I want you there," you allow, swallowing the lump in your throat.

For whatever reason, you can't for the life of you let go of Jimmy's arm, and your gaze raises. Your apologetic eyes are met with something infinitely more dangerous--confident, clear blue ones.

"Can't let you down then, can I?"

You're trapped, helpless, at the complete mercy of a gentleman you almost wish were naughty.

"So," you whisper, "I'll see you Tuesday?"

"You'll see me whenever you want, Teach."

Oh damn.

You release his arm finally, the breath you had no clue you were holding gusting out like a tidal wave.

"I'm taking this," you say, plucking the smoke from his hand. "It's a nasty habit. You should quit."

But you don't throw it on the ground or dispose of it in the dumpster, no. You're going to need this cigarette after you forcefully release the freight train of tension that just drove its way into your core.

Just as you turn, Jimmy lands an equally incendiary response.

"Yes, ma'am. I can do that for you."

Y'ALL I AM NOT OKAY. WHY. WHY HE END UP SO FUCKING HOTT? HOW???

My god, no wonder I haven't been able to write more than drabbles of these two--I'D FAINT. immediately. D.E.D. Ded.

Anyway, tagging interested parties is beyond my brainpower at the moment, so maybe in reblogs later. Fuk. I need a cold shower.

[Main Masterlist; Light Masterlist; Ko-Fi]

[sakuplumeria]

Give me my feral Albert: Adoption

I’ve never realized that the adoption of William and Louis differs between the anime and manga. It felt like the anime filled the gaps—vague plots—in the manga, but the more I crosscheck, the more I found differences. Once again, the anime tamed my feral Albert. How so? Let’s have a closer look.

In the anime, the adoption of an orphan revolved around the Earl Moriarty. It showed that the Earl was cornered to foster an orphan.

Duchess Pénières was a noble in a higher rank than Earl Moriarty. If he was questioned by the Duchess herself, in front of the society in the party, how could he say no? Though in this scenario, another question popped up in my mind: How come a noble such as the Duchess had the heart to foster an orphan, at that era where Albert despised literally everything in the world? Following the logic of the story, this was rather questionable. But then, it was an addition, anime only, background.

So let’s just continue. The conversation led the Earl to ask Albert to chose an orphan to bring home.

It was the Earl who took the initiative to foster an orphan, rather than Albert, even though he was forced to do it. It seemed like the idea of taking William and Louis home came to Albert’s mind because the Earl asked him to. He wouldn’t dare to actually ask William and Louis otherwise. At least, with the sequence of the scenes in episode 2, I myself interpreted it that way.

And this very interpretation, was a contrary to the manga.

Interestingly, the adoption revolved heavily around Albert's mother and the original William in the manga. We firstly learn about the adoption from the countess, when she lashed out to our William.

It didn’t say much yet, only that they were adopted, but noticed how full of hatred she was about our William calling her “Mother”. We get so much more about the adoption out of the original William.

Okay so, there were no hints of the Earl making a move to adopt an orphan. So far, the fact that William and Louis were adopted was because of Albert. He was the only one having the “noble” mind to come up with something so bizarre like adopting orphans. Obviously not the original William himself or the countess, but also not the Earl. So where was the Earl in the manga? He showed up a little.

We can see that the Earl was, like all other nobles at that time, hungry for a higher position in the system. He despised and avoid connections with people from the lower class. He based his actions as to whether it would benefit his position in nobility. He was not someone who would just agree to adopting an orphan from the lower class. So, the question now was: How did Albert actually manage his father to adopt not one, but two orphans from the lower class?

Two possible answers as of now.

First, as we’ve seen from the previous panel, Albert used the “noblesse oblige” to bring William and Louis home. He probably had a heated discussion with the Earl about it. I am leaning to think that the discussion was in private, because if the discussions were carried out with the whole family, can you imagine the countess’ reactions? Albert was clever enough to avoid something that will make his plan fail. However, discussing things only, wouldn’t make the Earl agree, I suppose. There must be something else…

My discussion with @hergan416 brought to light, the affair that the Earl was having. I don’t know how could I skip this fact, when it was explicitly there.

Now, this was something we don’t get from the anime either. And where would this bring us to? Did Albert know? Oh, I believe Albert knew. I mean, even the original William knew…

In the past, Albert had won the negotiation for his weekly visits to the orphanage before. Oh I believe this brought dispute before, since the Earl has the responsibilities of his children’s actions. Words spread fast, and what would others say when they see Albert went to the slums every week? Even if it was for charity.

Adoption was much bigger than just visitations though, so I guess Albert had to use a trump card for this. The affair. Did he threaten to leak the affair? Because even if it was probably a common practice, but it would struck the Earl’s position if publicized. Did he ask cooperation from the mistress to smooth out his plan? Because if it could increase the probability even just a little… I honestly don’t know, but I would like to think both?

He had the brain. He had the power and access. He had won against his father once, so I’d like to believe he had the courage too. It was not as big as his desire to get rid of people. It was only to bring two people to his house. I believe he would give it all. After he made the offer to William. After he found his way of salvation.

In the end, we see the adoption happening. Whatever he did, he succeeded. Maybe he asked for William’s assistance, maybe not. Didn’t really matter. But as you can see once again, Albert was not the lame teenager who just did as he was told as the anime showed. He didn’t bring William and Louis home because the Earl asked him to. He pushed the agenda to his father. He was taking the initiative. This is the Albert I know.

[rreskk]

HEADCANONS: Trevor Philips (long edition)

TW: -Sexual and suggestive content -Mentions of drugs

-Have been in and out of pyschwards since childhood to adulthood. His mental health record is bombarded with therapists desperate for referrals and struggling for an accurate diagnosis.

-Babies absolutely hate Trevor. Being near him causes them to cry and cause a scene. He doesn’t even have to do anything to make them cry, being there is enough.

-Used to go to festivals regularly before meeting Michael to sell drugs for easy money (earning enough to skip rented rooms).

-Was apart of a punk band in his later teens but was kicked out for fighting the other members, but also starting a riot in an underground bar when he was supposed to be performing. He played guitar, occasionally backup vocalist.

-Trevor used to go to theatre clubs in his early childhood but his mother couldn’t afford to keep him in the classes (or couldn’t be bothered).

-He looks more like his mother than his father.

-Has a bed-wetting problem, even now (due to his drug abuse and… Well, inability to control his bladder).

-He made Michael help groom his moustache back in North Yankton.

-Has nightmares about jerking off too much that his dick won’t work.

-Trevor will reference hardcore literature quotes but will REFUSE to read any fictional book.

-Can go without blinking for over 5 minutes.

-Believed in Santa until he was 14 years old.

-His voicemail would be like this: *peeing in the background* If you ain’t sucking my meth or dick, fuck off or I’ll come over and rip your scalp off with a butterknife.

-Tried to pose for a mugshot back in North Yankton when he was arrested for drink driving… He tried to pull out his penis and jerk off for the picture but got tackled and restrained.

-Would often find himself trying on strangers high-heels in nightclubs and will proceed to test run in them (one time he fell and broke his nose because of it).

-One Halloween party back in the Mid-West, he dressed as a slutty-priest and ended up sleeping with an actual priest.

-Bites his toe-nails.

-Is a good drawer (but soooo bad at painting).

-Definitely has an eBay account, where he sells used underwear (saying they’re untouched and new) and broken Car Wheels so he can send them off and get money from scamming people.

-Has a collection of panties from hookers and strippers (he uses them sometimes).

-He has MASSIVE feet. I’m talking like… He has to buy boots from military websites because none in shops would fit him.

-Secretly has a fetish of Christian women (and taking their virginity) – This is inspired by Type O Negative’s song: Christian woman.

-Owned a dirt bike before story-mode but he had it taken away by cops (and since hasn’t had it returned).

-Used to make fake female moaning sounds in public places then pretend it wasn’t him so he can watch people argue and fight.

-Has a weakness for women in general. If you’re a lady and you want to buy meth, he’ll lower the prices and will try and persuade you to “spend quality time with your dealer to build trust and foundation” which basically means… So he can finger and have sex with you.

-Has attachments to his flings and hookers (will most likely spam call them when he’s sad or bored).

-His favourite movie is probably pulp fiction or Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

[mesillusionssousecstasy]

Demon 79

This mini movie / episode was quite nice actually. 

Apparently, Demon 79 was originally supposed to be released on a sister series called Red Mirror which would deal with more supernatural things rather than having it all technology based. According to Brooker they might end up doing more Red Mirror episodes depending on the success of this.

Now there’s several nods to horror classics in this entry with the score of the shining being used as the title comes up. We also have the poster for the entry itself which looks like it’s playing on the one for that film along with it’s latter sequel Doctor Sleep. Made to evoke 70′s horrors this entry also tackles themes like race, politics and the incoming apocalypse. Centred around a woman named Nida Huq I couldn’t help think that this might be a reference to Brookers real life wife Connie Huq who has co-wrote several episode of the show in the past. 

After the title reveal we come across Nida and can hear bright eyes in the background by Art Garfunkel. This was written for the 1978 movie Watership down and the song itself is about a dreamlike state where someone goes on a journey. This is similar to Nida in the entry and they give a lot of focus to her eyes being wide open at several points. 

Now this episode is packed with a number of different easter eggs and ties back to other black mirror episodes from the off and throughout. There’s a shoe brand called Wolfies Footwear which might be building off the back of the last episode Mazey Day. We see the newspaper clipping talking about how a tipley publican named Robert Daly has died. Robert Daly is a name that has appeared in the series before and this was the character that Jesse Plemons played in USS Callister. This is probably director Tobey Haynes giving a bit of a shoutout to himself as he directed not only this but also that episode as well.  The talisman used to summon the demon also seems like a thinner version of the white bear symbol which actually appears later on in the flashes of Michael Smarts future.

The fictional UKN broadcaster from the universe announces his Britannia party and we learn that Smart actually took power from Michael Callow from National Anthem. However the flash here shows that he was kicked out for Racist remarks and a clipping in Loch Henry showed that he’d rebuke this. It then announced he’d start a new party which leads to the Britannia one which has the union jack in the white bear symbol. There’s also a shot of facial recognition at an eye level being taken out. This could indicated that the ADIs from hated in the Nation came from Smart and we see that they’re used on a black man showing that they have a racial angle to them. We also end up seeing one of dogs from Metal Head. A news ticker in Loch Henry confirmed that they were introduced by Smart and they of course caused a lot of issues in the country. 

It’s funny how Dog is thought to be the titular demon of the episode, when I definitively see it as Smart and hell doesn’t even want him dead because of all the evil he could do. Smart represents the control of the weak minded people who are easily swayed by politicians and he almost somewhat hypnotises Nida’s co-worker into voting for him.

Gaap is also a real life demon from the infernal dictionary who has shape shifting abilities and can show people a past. He states that he’s a misophape which is a lower class demon. 

At one point Nida reads the book Creative Visualisation which is about using the power of imagination to create what you want in life. 

Turns out that murderers can’t count as people who are killed due to them already being damned and thus she has to go after smart. 

Nevertheless the book is a major clue and we have the history with her mother adding to it as well. We know from the other entries that Michael Smart survived and benefits from this attack. 

The episode have the similarities to the son of Sam killings which too took place in the 70s. David Berkowitz said that a demon in the form of a dog told him to do it which though he’s admitted was a hoax could be the basis for this episode itself. 

The morality behind it is : Is it ok to kill someone when he’s a bad person or when he will do despicable things in the future. 

Can someone good and innocent do something terrible and bad for the greater good?

The actors playing the principal roles were perfect, especially the one playing the dancer in Bobby M. 

Why 79? 

Also the prime minister Michael Smart is finally in this entire episode from present to future.

Some good quotes: “- So don’t just hope for a better future. Vote for one!”

“- Cast out into a boundless, cosmic void. And doomed to spend eternity in a vaccum of infinite nothingness. Absence of matter, of time, of space, light, and sound. I would endure a profound, palpable, and ever-present lack of existence, alone in perpetuity, forever more.  - Sound like my life.”

“- My whole life, I never wished harm on anyone. I didn’t. - Uh... You couldn’t have summoned me for my trial if you hadn’t. Well, you had to be corruptible, not beyond corruption. You know what? You must have had some dark force inside you when you touched the talisman. There’s no shame in it.”

“- Then I choose Michael Smart. He’s the one. That’s that.  - Honestly, they are not gonna like it.  - But it’s within the rules, so they can lump it.”

“- So, I mean, you could come with. - Into eternal oblivion?  - Oh no, it’s much worse than that. It’s with me.”

[nedconte]

Roosmav fic recs: G and T rated

Explicit fics get a lot of love in this fandom, but there are also many amazing fics with lower ratings, and I made this rec list to highlight some of my favorites. As always, I'm trying to include a little positive note on each fic, and I hope it doesn't get too repetitive because there are only so many ways to say I absolutely loved something.

No archive warnings apply to any of these fics.

live with me forever now by apfelhalm 700 words, G, no archive warnings apply magical realism

"Wow", Mav chuckles, "65, can you believe that?" "You don't look a day older than 60," Rooster says, but what he really thinks is: 50, more like. His own temples and mustache have been starting to turn grey a couple of years ago, but Mav's hair is still jetblack. Maverick may or may not be immortal.

This is a wonderful little ficlet. Technically an AU, but it definitely feels like it could be canon.

out in the wide open plane by Lacerta 3k, G, no archive warnings apply canon divergence: aircraft mechanic Bradley, accidental confession, reconciliation

He didn’t expect they’d run into each other, not like this, not here, in the middle of nowhere in the Mojave Desert. One reason why he took this post in the first place was the luxury of not working with hotheaded fighter pilots. The main appeal is still the birds, of course – the state of the art jets, fastest to ever exist. From the day he joined his first aeronautics class, Bradley knew working on cutting-edge aircrafts was his real dream come true. He should’ve known Maverick would be enticed by their allure, too. * When Bradley talks to himself in the empty hangar, he's sure Darkstar is the only one listening to his confession.

This is very beautifully written. The accidental confession scene means the world to me.

half of my heart by plingo_kat 4k, T, no archive warnings apply post-canon, getting together

As a kid, Mav always seemed larger than life. Whenever Bradley would see him he’d always have a new story, some cool activity to do, be appearing at the door with a kiss on the cheek for his mother and slinging his leather jacket onto an only lightly occupied coat hook along the hall. And during the mission training, he’d flown circles around the best pilots Rooster knew, himself included. It was only after they’d been released from medical, poked and prodded and provided with various compression braces and pills, that he gets to learn Mav the man: someone who lives alone in the desert and likes it, who can be the life of the party but can also spend days saying nothing at all except the occasional soft endearment to his machines.

Lovely and really well written. I adore the characterizations in this one.

Blood is thicker than water, but blood is even stronger by Fuddlewuddle 1.5k, T, no archive warnings apply post-canon, fluff, sharing a bed

Mav and Bradley are at a hotel and have to share a bed. It's everything Bradley wants but not sure he's allowed to have.

This is super sweet. Lovely take on the "only one bed" trope.

the first four knuckles by thekookster 6.5k, T, no archive warnings apply background relationships, pov outsider, character study

eighteen, twenty-two, twenty-five, twenty-nine, thirty-three— and the question remains: who is Bradley Bradshaw, really?

This is an incredibly well written Bradley-centric fic. The last chapter especially is a work of art.

some bunny to love by notyourwinter 4k, T, no archive warnings apply shapeshifter au, crack treated seriously

He'd asked his mother once, when he was a kid, why it felt so much easier to be a rabbit sometimes, rather than human, and she hadn't had an answer. She just gathered him up in her arms and said, "I know it's hard to be different, sweetheart. But you're my Bradley bun, and I love you." It's Top Gun: Maverick, except sometimes Rooster is a bunny.

Amazing take on such a cracky premise. This is cute and fun and I highly recommend reading it.

The next 3 fics have been included on my previous rec lists, but they deserve to get mentioned again:

Coffee Corner by Brenda 4.5k, T, no archive warnings apply coffee shop au, fluff and humor

"Wow." Bradley's future husband frowns — very attractively — as he grabs an apron and puts it on, deftly tying it in the back. "Wow?" "Shit, did I say...sorry." Bradley wants to sink right into the ground. "I'm not...you're real, right?" Because Bradley's pretty sure he's still asleep and having the best dream of his life.

The 'fluff and humor' tag is on point – this is a really fun and heartwarming fic.

I can't promise you anything, but I can tell you I'll never leave by othersideofthis 6.5k, T, no archive warnings apply western au

“Didn’t think you’d show your face around here again,” is the first thing Pete says when Rooster turns up at the ranch. Not “hello,” not “how you doing.” Not “don’t you know it’s been 15 years and I’ve thought about you every day.” No.

I love western AUs and this is really good. Perfect example of how to include canon elements in an AU setting.

can't start a fire without a spark by hazelmotes 5.5k, T, no archive warnings apply 5+1 things, crack treated seriously

Five times the people around Maverick and Rooster thought what is with these two? and one time they didn't have to. In which there is scheming, reminiscing, wagers, long-suffering sighs, sex toys, and Springsteen. Always, always Springsteen.

This fic was a lot of fun to read, and the different POVs in this are super well written.

[csphire]

Meet Tav (Gustav the VIII)

Legal Name: Gustav the VIII, Future Duke of the House of Sunshard

Nickname / Aliases: Tav / That Foolish Brat He's not fond of his first name Gustav as he shares it with his father, his grandfather, and so forth in his lineage. It takes him a while to open up to Astarion, and later the others, about his proper name, past, and not-so-happy "privileged" life. His mother gave him the nickname Tav, and it stuck. It's his father and grandfather who usually call him "That Foolish Brat." Background: Noble Age: 26 Pronouns: He / Him / They Race/Subrace: High Half-Elf Alignment: Chaotic Good Deities: It's complicated. Lathander, Mystra, Loviatar and Ilmater Class / Subclass: Bard / Wizard Instruments of Choice: Flute / Violin / Lute Weapons of Choice: Hand Crossbows, Daggers, Staves, Mace and Shield

Love Interest: Astarion Their relationship was a bit bumpy at first. Although both were snatched up in Yartar they had not officially met until crossing paths on the beach after the crash of the nautiloid. Before that, as Tav performed in a tavern he had watched Astarion prowl the crowd night after night and eventually ended up whispering sweet nothings in another young nobleman's ear. Tav found the colorfully dressed elf handsome but by now knew a charlatan on the hunt when he saw one. He followed the two out in concern that Astarion was going to rob the other man or do something worse but the two of them ended up abducted instead. The noble Tav would like to think was spared. Astarion on the other hand at first assumed Tav an easy mark for later. Pretty but far too gullible, and idealistic given all who the half-elf helped. Astarion also presumed by the young man's attire and easygoing manner that he had zero understanding of hardship or the dark underbelly of this world.

Then, after learning the nature of all of Tav's physical scars and background, he was left baffled. He couldn't understand why anyone would flee from such a life of seemingly rich comforts and safety to barely eke out a living by performing music alone. But eventually, he came to realize just how trapped Tav felt in his old life. How the younger man had no room to breathe and be himself. It paled to his own suffering but the yearning for freedom was still something they both held in common and bonded over. Best Friends: Gale and Wyll Tav is friends with all of his companions. However, when it comes to Gale there is a mentorship aspect to their friendship as well due to they are both wizards. With Wyll they relate to one another deeply by being a part of nobility and an inability to obey or please their fathers.

Personality: Among his peers, he was always a touch aloof but polite at first. He's learned from court life to always be on guard and to listen more than talk. All to learn enough to unleash either the sharpest of retorts to anyone who dared to insult him first or the sweetest complement to charm. He maybe haughty at times, but only to cover up the fact he's actually quite shy when it comes to dealing with people, especially one-on-one. At his first ball, he soon found standing and chatting in a large group easier as it mostly involved observation. "So many like to hear themselves talk. I say let them," he decided with a smile. If any focus fell upon him, Tav learned quickly to pivot it to another when the need arose. It was only when he started to perform before a crowd, the more raucous and lower class the better, he found the courage to drop his mask at long last, cut loose, and rediscover his true playful self. "Why under that thin layer of ice you're as warm as a sunbeam and such a sweetheart," Astarion would tease but lightly. Bio: Tav was born to a rich family who can trace their lineage back farther than the founding of Baldur's Gate. Like most of the city's nobles, as the heir to his family line, he was highly educated and sheltered well beyond his childhood. He was also expected to find someone suitable and marry to continue the Sunshard line. Once puberty hit, however, Tav could no longer stand his family's guided cage or their carefully laid plans for his life.

At first woefully naive about the world beyond his family's garden wall and court life, he rebelled, ran away, and ended up with a few scars after a near-fatal fight. But from them, he also learned more about himself and life in general. Each time he wiggled free, he managed to stay out of his father's and grandfather's clutches a little longer. At first, it was a handful of days but by his late twenties, he managed to dodge them and survive all on his own for over a year.

In fact, on his recent nineteenth attempt, he had made it all the way to Yartar. There he hoped to finally be beyond his family's reach. He had been an established bard for a few months with no sign of any of his father and grandfather's hirelings or mutual acquaintances. He was at last happy and fully prepared to be disowned. A threat his father had made when they last spoke. But then one terrible night he along with Astarion and countless others were abducted by mindflayers.

Trapped in one of their pods his only small comfort was knowing his mother might continue to think he's only fled from the nest again. That he was out enjoying the world and doing what he loves. Unlike his father, she never begrudged him for taking off and only demanded he send word home to assure her of his safety now and then. Given all that's happened he's not sure where to begin and just how much he should leave out, least upset her.

[the-monkey-ruler]

Hope this isn’t too odd of a question but is there like, a minor theme of the villains being like evil versions of certain gods/allies? Like, the most obvious is the Six Eared Macaque, who impersonated Sun Wukong, but there’s also Red Boy, who’s compared to Nezha in appearance and also uses a spear and fire, Lady Earth Flow, who called herself the Half Guanyin, and I heard that Princess Iron Fan had an origin of being a goddess before becoming a demon, and I heard that the Queen Mother of (1)

Well like I said before when it comes to the antagonists in Xiyouji... there can be many different types of interpretations that can be drawn from. But I don't think that there is a real 'evil versions' of deities going on from there.

Red Boy being a good example as he has a history in Buddhism before Xiyouji was made.

I think something that people forget or don't know is that Wu Cheng'en's version of Journey to the West, wasn't really the 'first' or rather is wasn't something that he created all from his own imagination. The story of Xuanzang's pilgrimage has been told many times at this point and there were many stray stories with different demons or challenges that were either for pure entertainment value or did have great allegorical meanings.

What gave Wu Cheng'en that edge that made 'his' version of the story was not only did he drawn from many of the most popular stories, interpretations, and took the most charming (or humane) aspects of the characters and was able to make a large, long decently cohesive story that people in either lower class or higher class can draw enjoyment from.

So that being said... taking EVERY allegorical possibility of each antagonist, with each demon having a tie to either Buddism, Daoism, or Chinese folklore, or even a mix of two or all three... is RESEARCH PAPER level kind of study and I am not qualified to answer in a tumble post ;_;

But that being I said I don't think Red Boy is just evil Nezha (who has his own lore and history) as when he turns into the Child of Wealth he becomes Shancai which has a rich history all on its own.

Red Boy takes greater inspiration from the Buddhist history of this disciple than of Li Nezha.

Lady Earth Flow another example only calls herself 'Half Gaunyin' because she stole precious Candles from vulture peak. There are a lot of demons in Xiyouji that show their power or clout rather by having a connection to Buddisht lore, like the Scorpion Queen claiming she was able to injure Tathāgata and that the Golden Wing Peng is his uncle because his mother the Peacock ate him and he escaped giving 'birth' to him and was promoted to his godmother hence the connection.

These connections are more about giving credibility to the antagonists' power and even giving more insight into perhaps where these stories or such are connected.

Princes Iron Fan being a Taoist Goddess is a thing but that happens moreso in the Yaun Dynasty in which is before Xiyouji was written and in zaju she is presented as a sister of Lishan Laomu (who funny is enough is ALSO the sister of Sun Xingzhe in Zaju Xiyou ji so that is interesting) but left heaven due to a dispute with the Queen Mother at a banquet. However, it looks like in Wu Cheng'en's Xiyouji I have seen her being described as a Rakshasa which is connected to Hindu lore. I do now know if the intended meaning was to erase the Taoist backstory she has but perhaps making this a lot like Red Boy in giving the character a new background for the sake of the narrative. Or perhaps it is to show how multiple different inspirations can be used to create a single character and that while it is not really a 'canon' it would have been realizing known who the character is at that point and would not cause much confusion.

As for the Queen Mother being a demon, I personally do not think that the version seen in Wu Cheng'en would have that connection due to the fact that the image of the Queen Mother was greatly changed by that point. Her interpretation in the Zhou dynasty where they give her the title of a goddess of death and later she is influenced by Taoism and is given further elements such as immorality and longevity. But even in that interpretation, she is an immortal, not a demon, and perhaps the re-writings of her lore make it so that when he was more integrated with Taoism she was given a different backstory as well. I cannot say for certain as this is more of a case of a change of legends that she had ties showing of being connected to being a feline/tiger demon that was later changed within her own legend.

However when it comes to a lot of antagonists in Xiyouji having heavenly backgrounds I think there is more discussion there, than trying to compare them to any other existing deities as the doppelganger trope isn't played that much.

There are about 4 fallen Celetials if we are not including Princess Iron Fan being Yellow Robed Demon, Golden Horned King, Silver Horned King, and Yellow Brows King and about 12 heavenly animals (I will not name them all) that have escaped heaven and each one gives their own varies of reasons from being personal gain or that they were ordered to just to be trails specifically for the pilgrims to overcome. Some wanted revenge, love, glory, or just for their own sake.

Personally, I think that having so many heavenly creatures fall from heaven to be demons was to show that both heaven and earth are not perfect and that even in the highest authority there are still cracks in the system that must be held accounted for. Bajie and Wujing being two big examples as they themselves were fallen celestial soldiers on earth as a punishment while other celestials saw it as a way of freedom and escaping their responsibilities. It makes an interesting argument of how the heaven's view of Yaoguai and their origin influence their judgment, Wukong being the only Yaogaui without a background tied to the heaven beyond being made of Yin and Yang but his fellow disciples once had stood there.

I think there is a lot to be said on how the treatment of Yaoguai changes when the antagonist is from a heavenly origin as they are rarely if never killed, rather being subdued and sent back to heaven for trial or just punishment. As much as Wukong does kill a lot of demons, he also sends a lot of them to court for their crimes which I do find to be an interesting take, especially with yaoguai that Wukong wishes to personally punish.

The relationship between heaven and yaoguai is something I think could really be delved into with how there almost seems to be double standards when it comes to how yaoguai are to be treated when they cultivate on their own verse if they eat humans to cultivate verse if 'cheat' by skipping their reincarnation cycle and going straight from animal to humanoid using heavenly objects. From there that almost distracts whether they are able to go back to their original forms to cultivate for their next life to be a human or if they are to be killed and try again in the next life.

But no matter what the case is, yaoguai is seen as both a punishment by the heavens but also seen as a chance for individuals to escape their current status and strive for their own goals, as selfish as they are.

Long story short.

It is that deep.

https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jletters/article/download/251848/171700/942171

[commenter2]

Exes and Oohs breakdown (spoilers)

Another Moxxie episode where we see his father AND ex-boyfriend.

This episode already gets points for coming out on the weekend, as a lot of people like myself didn’t like how the last episode aired during the work week.

Looks like Loona’s fat shaming/gas lighting is working, as Moxxie is now starting to believe it.

From time to time I have brought up the idea that Millie’s anger might be related to some kind of mental or psychological problem, and its moments like this that seem to hint/confirm it. It’s nice to see Moxxie being one of the things that can calm her down.

Looks like Moxxie and Millie aren’t the only people Blitzo likes to see doing it.

Heh it’s a Hell-icopter. Hey if Vivziepop can make the occasional cheesy joke in her videos then why can’t I, especially since I’ve already ignored several big ones of hers so far in the series.

Returning background characters. Well those kids are going to need therapy.

So this episode takes place in the Greed ring. Kind of hoping we would go to Envy, but at least we can learn more about the Greed ring.

Interesting to know that there is vehicle sized elevators available to take people to other rings while in their respective vehicles. Explains how Blitzo can bring the I.M.P. van to places.

Loo Loo Land is still a wreck.

Mammon is so cheap, he won’t pay to print his own logo on all of his things.

Improper toxic waste disposal. That’s the reason why the place is so green.  It’s probably more radioactive then anywhere in the Fallout series. Eh better than just having it represent money.

Before I forget, it seems like the theory of the shark demons being from Greed is true. It does make me wonder if there a sub-species though, as I’m sure there are some sharks in the Envy ring that look totally different from what we’ve seen, heck I think we saw some of them in “Ozzie’s”

In that wide shot where we see Crimson and that big shark guy, what is that red demon supposed to be? He looks like a Imp/Incubus mixed with something else that looks very bird like to me. Could he be the bastard child of a Goetia who slept with a lower-class demon?

Crimson says Blitzo is becoming famous but is it because of his business or because of his “relationship” with Stolas as the events of “Ozzie’s” still haven’t been showed yet. Has my wish of their relationship still being a secret coming true? I guess we will have to wait till the Ozzie X Fizz episode.

THAT’S NOT ANDY BERMAN!! Come on that would have been awesome for this episode, and I’m not even an Invader Zim fan.

WAIT HE DATED MOXXIE AND MILLIE! Now that’s a twist while still breaking away from cliché tropes.

Of course Blitzo is jealous of Chaz getting with M and M XD

Baby Moxxie and his mother! Looks like she wasn’t happy in the relationship, poor thing. At least it’s fitting and tolerable for this one time story compared to another cliche marriage but I’m not getting into that as today is all about Moxxie and Millie.

I will say, Moxxie’s mother is beautiful!

Love the flashbacks followed by the Titanic references, even Blitzo calls it out XD.

For robbing a bank owned by the demon of Greed, I’m surprised Moxxie only went to jail. You think a crime like that would be instant death or getting tortured from the demon himself.

MOXXIE AND BLITZO FIRST MEETING! I wished Moxxie had talked more in that conversation but it’s nice to see how it all started. It also seems to show that Moxxie likes Blitzo because he’s leagues nicer than his father and ex, betting its was how Blitzo wanted to get in touch with Loona that sealed their friendship.

By Moxxie saying “sissy lifestyle” I’m guessing Crimson is homophobic. I can see several HH/HB characters having issues with that.

Looking closer, Chaz’s hairstyle is very similar to Seviathan von Eldrtich’s hairstyle. I’m guessing that is a common style for aquatic demons.

Please tell me were going to get a “Princess Bride” scene later in this episode with Millie in the Westley role :D

So Crimson is homophobic. I’m also still surprised by what this series can get away with sometimes when it comes to visuals.

The flashbacks are education as along with getting more confirmation of Moxxie’s childhood and Crimson being a bad father and husband (not surprising) with very little words, but it’s also thanks to him Moxxie’s mother is gone. Damn. Hell just got a lot uglier without her in it.

It also seems like the HB fandom has another person to ship with Stella :3

Fourth wall break.

Imagine if before Chaz and Blitzo did the nasty, Stolas appeared with a camera, causing Blitzo to go “Are you F^&*ing filming us!”

Moxxie’s last name is Knolastname!

Moxxie X Millie FOREVER!

I honestly wasn’t expecting Chaz to have his own agenda, I thought we would see Millie learn about the wedding and try and stop it. Heck I’d be okay if Blitzo did this as he hasn’t done much in the episode, almost like he SHOULDN’ T have been in it.

“Says he’s better then he looks only to be knocked out” cliché. It would have been cool to see Moxxie do some action before getting knocked out, as that would be another reason why Crimson ties him up as he see’s that his son can be a problem.

I have been wondering what a demon wedding looks like, so it was nice seeing some elements of it.  I am surprised that the demon priest is wearing attire an actual human priest would wear. You think he would wear something more IDK… hellish, like wearing all red or something. Ooo what about gray as that could represent the groom (who wears white) and bride (who wears black) becoming one!

Want to point out that Wrath channel is playing a country like song, fitting given we know it’s filled of farmers and other stereotypical country stuff.

We’re getting our “Princess Bride” scene!!!!!

Mille gives Mortal Kombat’s Scorpion a round for his money on, I mean she pulls out people’s skulls and spines WAY better then him.

She literally just turned a shark into sushi XD

After all that, I would have just killed Crimson, and maybe Chaz, so they can’t cause future problem especially when they already have tons of enemies but that’s just me. At least I could see them returning in interesting ways but more on that later.

It honestly wasn’t surprising to see Loona still in that chair, heck I bet she could stay in any chair for weeks without having the need to get up.

NO KEEP THE HELL-ICOPTER GUYS! That would have been cool to have for later.

I don’t think Chaz is dead, however without his teeth I bet he wished he was.

Actually thinking back, I’m surprise that though he is a shark demon, he can’t regrow teeth like an actual shark. It makes me wonder if other animal like demons lack traits the actual animal has, like I could see bee demons being able to use their stingers without fear of it coming off naturally.

Another episode, another Hell enemy for I.M.P. though I do see this leading to a good episode.

(watching credits) DAMMIT Chaz is dead. Why couldn’t it be Striker! I really would have liked to have seen Chaz return with not only dentures to replace his missing teeth, but also trying the same plan on Helsa Von Eldritch in a Hazbin Hotel episode. I feel like this potential episode would have been a growing moment for Charlie who discover Chaz’s plans, and though she hates Helsa (showing similar traits to how her father hates people like Adam or Michael in that episode which are pointed out by the characters) she puts it aside and helps Helsa realize she is being used and maybe while the two still hate each other, there is some respect between them as maybe Helsa does something that helps the Hotel.

Another good episode that is fitting with this season’s theme of expanding more on the character’s backstories, though this one is the best so far. All the positives about the episode are the same as previous episodes so I’m going straight to the negatives.

Though I do like how Millie got some good screen time, I wish we could have explored more about her in it, like what if she always had a bad reaction when dealing with exes EVEN when said ex tries to be friendly with her?  It also would have been nice and fitting with her character if she tried to bond with Crimson during the episode or again figure out his plan’s with Moxxie and instantly tries to stop it.

As I mentioned in my Helluva Boss EXPO literature, I didn’t like Blitzo being in another episode that really would have been better off as a Moxxie and Mille only episode. I recently watched a DCAU Justice League/JLU review and it went over how though it was about a team, not every team member appeared in every episode which was a plus as it gave stories where the problem couldn't be solve in 5 minutes because this specific character was there but also gave us interesting character interactions and dedicated screen time for said characters. It would be nice to see that later on in Helluva Boss in some way. Same with how Crimson being another bad father since we’ve gotten plenty of those. Again I know bad parents is a theme in Vivzies’s shows but I think it be nice to get more “variety” like that headcanon I made about Moxxie’s father being an actor, but more on that in my eventual Helluva Boss rewrite. It IS happening but there is no big rush right now, which gives me time to focus on other things I need to catch up on. I at least hope HH’s Lucifer isn't like that as it would be nice if he was a character who loves Charlie but strongly think her redemption idea should be stopped as along with how he feels like his pride is being attacked a bit, he is scared of her failing and maybe because of something else as I suggested in my HH season 1 premiere post.

At least Crimson’s personality could lead to an interesting future episode where he tries to get revenge on Moxxie and especially Millie, which would hurt Moxxie more. He’d be perfect for the antagonist of my episode idea where Moxxie and Millie go and spend time with Millie’s family, as Crimson has orchestrated the events that led Millie’s father Joe in a bad position and unknowingly lures Moxxie to him in order to get out of it. Of course seeing how Crimson treats Moxxie, and realizing he isn’t going to let him go and plans on hurting Millie next, Joe goes back on his deal and the two (along with Millie and her other family members) defeat Crimson who I could see dying of natural causes because he refused to give up on getting back at Moxxie. This episode could also make Millie’s parents finally accept Moxxie as one of the family and maybe Moxxie starts seeing Joe as a new father figure.

This episode was worth the long wait, and luckily Spring starts soon so hopefully episode 4 will come out soon. I have to say I’m excited for the upcoming Blitzo centered episodes as they guarantee to give us some good stuff.

What are your thoughts on the episode?

[thebawdybaldurian]

BG3FicFeb Day 23

SFW: A peek into Tav’s younger days, as she prepares to become the chaotic, horny bard of legend.

NSFW: When Tav returns to Halsin, covered in fang marks, he decides to one-up his vampiric lover by unleashing his inner beast

SFW: A day in the life of Tav’s childhood

Background: Before she was known as Tav or Chardonnay Brandywine, she was Clataedre Calthrenis (aka Addy), a young high elf born to sorcerer parents.

Addy walked home from school beaming, holding a loosely bound stack of paper. ‘Best in the class, you have a real talent for writing’ was written across the top. She’d spent hours refining the class assignment, more engaged in this project than any other before. She did well in all her other studies, if she could manage to pay attention, but this was something she had actually enjoyed finishing. She couldn’t wait to show her parents the story she had written.

They were both in their study, as they usually were, pouring over arcane literature or experimenting with spells. They were two of the best Evokers in Neverwinter, meeting and marrying quite quickly while attending the arcane academy. It was more of a mutual arrangement than a romantic partnership, but they did manage to have one child, despite the lower rate of Elven births. Their daughter would be the culmination of their combined magical legacy. As such, she was expected to practice spell casting as often as she could, sometimes to the detriment of her other studies.

Her parents barely noticed when she entered the room, her smile still wide. “How was school, Addy?” Her father asked, carefully stirring a potion with a Mage Hand.

“My teacher liked my story the best out of the entire class,” Addy proudly held her work up.

“What story?” Her mother replied, forming a small ice crystal in her hand. She began manipulating it with her other hand, barely paying any attention to her daughter.

“The one I have been working on for a month.”

“Time better spent mastering your Thunderwave spell, in my opinion,” her mother continued her manipulation. “Honestly, what is that school teaching you? The sooner you are enrolled in the arcane academy, the better. You are grown now, you shouldn’t be wasting your time writing fancies.”

“I like this school,” Addy frowned, wishing they would show interest in anything other than magic. “They teach me a lot of different things.”

“No harm being well rounded,” her father added, finishing with the potion and giving it a sniff.

“Addy, Jorgan should have lunch prepared for you. Tell him to come in here so I can test this potion when you find him. You can start on your studies after.”

Addy’s shoulder’s slumped, expecting perhaps the slightest bit of pride from her parents. She’d worked so hard on this story and they didn’t even care. She went to find their sorcerer’s apprentice, who was little more than a glorified servant and test subject, receiving only the benefit of room and board with some magical instruction. She hated the young elf, only a few years older than her, who frequently gave her creepy looks and put in the least amount of effort in the meals he was forced to prepare for her. She found him leaned over the kitchen counter, talking to someone through a well hidden sending stone.

“I could probably finger you with my Mage Hand from here,” he whispered, clearly talking to some new love interest. Addy cleared her throat, letting him know she was there. “What do you want?” He sighed, hiding the stone in his pocket.

“Just grabbing my lunch,” she pulled the cloche off the plate that sat on the counter. It was some amalgamation of vegetables and charred meat. “It’s burnt,” she scrunched her nose.

“Fix it with a Prestidigitation Spell then,” he sassed her, slipping into the pantry to continue his lurid conversation.

“My father has a new potion for you,” she made a rude gesture at him, hoping the potion made his cock fall off, and took the plate up to her bedroom, her only sanctuary from both him and her parents.

She sat on the floor, fixing the meat with the simple cantrip, and ate while she re-read the story she’d written. It was an adventure about a halfling who find a magical artifact and travels all across Faerun. She’d stared at map for hours, picking out interesting sounding places for her heroine to visit. There was nothing she wanted more than to escape her house, escape Neverwinter, and escape the pressures of magic. She wanted to have fun, be known, be loved.

She eventually let out a long sigh, tossing the story into the pile of accomplishments her parents couldn’t care less about. She reached under her bed to grab her private journal, something no one would ever read. It was full of her dreams and desires and short little stories about the life she wanted to have. She began to write something new, something she desired more than anything.

‘I want to meet a handsome man who sweeps me off my feet, takes me on an adventure, and then marries me, giving me lots of children.’

She scribbled out the last bit. No, that was the fantasy of little girls and she was pretty much a woman now. She didn’t want any other child to have to live like she had, even her own. She couldn’t wait to get out of this house and never look back. She was supposed to begin at the arcane academy next year, but she knew in her heart she would hate in more than anything. She wanted to write, to travel, to be free, to finally be loved.

She’d met a young bard a few months ago, hanging up flyers for the local college around her school. They’d talked and flirted shyly, the bard giving her her first kiss, that had left her in a daze for a tenday. She could never have anything like that at the arcane college. Their fraternization policy was incredibly strict. She needed to explore everything, including herself, wondering how angry her parents would be if she enrolled in the bard’s college instead.

NSFW: Marking

Background: When Tav returns to Halsin, covered in fang marks, he decides to one-up his vampiric lover by unleashing his inner beast. (That story is already written for one of the last prompts 😄)

Content and Warnings: Female elf x male elf. Semi-public sex, marking, biting, oral sex, PIV sex, cum play, masturbation.

Tav and Astarion returned to the Elfsong Tavern, rejoining their companions after spending the night at Tav’s cottage. It was an unusually hot spring day, but Tav was wearing a long-sleeved dress and a silk scarf tied around her neck. Astarion had ravaged her the night before, leaving her covered neck to ankle in bite marks. She was a little sore and tired from their vigorous lovemaking/blood drinking session, but she’d loved every second of it. She was already sweating from their brief walk through the Lower City by the time they arrived.

She found Halsin out on the balcony, enjoying the warmer weather lounged on a wooden chaise, in just a pair of shorts. He would have prefered to be fully nude, sparing his companions the awkwardness. “Hello, my heart,” he grinned up at her, shielding his eyes from the sun.

“Hi, love,” Tav felt a hot flush spread across her body, the shorts leaving little to the imagination.

She could see the outline of his flaccid, but still thick cock, his balls resting on his thick, muscular thighs. His golden skin glistened slightly from the mix of sweat and body oil he applied to his skin to keep his body hair soft and supple.

“Join me,” he added, patting the chaise beside him, looking her up and down. “Though perhaps you’d like to change first? You must be sweltering.”

“A little,” she blushed, pulling at the scarf around her neck. She untied it, revealing the two bites marks on either side of her throat.

“You and Astarion enjoyed yourselves, I take it?” He grinned as she climbed onto the chaise next to him. He leaned over to kiss her neck, nuzzling against the tiny red wounds.

“A little too much, I think,” she blushed even deeper, unlacing the top of her dress so she could get some air on her chest. The top of her breasts had bite marks on them as well.

“I see,” he gently caressed his hand down her neck, giving one of her breasts a squeeze. He reached down for the hem of her dress, pulling it up to her knees as he kissed her. “How many times did he bite you?” He looked down at the marks that trailed up her legs as well.

“I lost count,” she blushed even deeper. “You’re not mad, are you? That he marked me so much?”

“Definitely not mad,” he glanced down at his growing arousal, already bulging out of his loose shorts. “Perhaps jealous he got to taste so much of your skin,” he pulled her dress higher, revealing the many bites on her thighs.

“You could as well,” she let out a quiet sigh as he bent down to kiss her thighs. He spread them apart, nuzzling and kissing the soft, unmarred flesh in between the bite marks. “Ohhh,” she let out a little yelp as he bit roughly into her inner thigh. He didn’t break the skin, but it would bruise her delicate flesh quickly. He reached up to tug on the top of her underpants, the scent of her own growing arousal too much for him. “Halsin,” she bit her lip, looking back to make sure she’d shut the door to that led inside. “What if someone comes out?”

“Let them,” he slid her underpants down, lifting her hips to get them off. “They can watch me reclaim you,” he pressed his mouth to her clit at once, sending a shock up her spine.

“Gods!” Her legs trembled as his tongue probed her, his hands spreading her thighs wider.

He licked and nibbled on her, letting his mouth drift down her other thigh for a moment to bit her there. He brought her to climax quickly, his hunger for her making her bite into her own flesh to keep her moans quiet. He left more rough bites on her outer thighs, nibbling past her knees and then left a few bites on each of her calves. She’d unlaced her dress by now, leaving it completely open in the front. He looked over her with a smile, watching as she rubbed her fingers against her clit. “I need to mount you,” she hissed, staring down at the cock protruding through his shorts.

The wet spot of pre-cum spread wide across them. He grinned and climbed beside her again, his cock spilling out of his shorts effortlessly. She straddled him quickly, rubbing her slit against him as she checked the door again. There would be no way to hide her riding his cock if someone should come out. “Fuck!” She arched her back as he guided himself inside her, eager to feel her around him. She’d already opened completely for his sizable member, not needing any slow warmup to begin riding his cock quickly and urgently.

His mouth went straight to her breasts, his wide mouth biting just above Astarion’s teeth marks. The chaise creaked underneath them, their sweat beading together and dripping between the wooden slats. She slowed her hips for only a moment, pulling her dress off completely, leaving her fully nude and completely exposed. Anyone looking up at a certain angle from the street below would be able to see them, but she didn’t care. She wanted him so much, his hunger for her making her want him even more. He moved up to her neck, sucking on her sensitive flesh, leaving hickeys up and down her throat.

“Gods…fuck…uhhhhnnn,” she pressed her face into his chest as she came again, muffling her moans against the musky dew of his skin. He bucked his hips with her, close to his own climax. “Wait,” she breathed heavily, slowly circling her hips around him as he grunted with need. “I skipped my tincture this month, so Astarion could drink my moon blood…you probably shouldn’t come in me.”

“Okay,” he nodded, moving her hips against him a little more. He knew her thoughts on children, and as unlikely as it would be to impregnate her given their Elven heritage and his perceived infertility, he would always comply with her wishes.

She climbed off of him, returning to her original position on the chaise, rubbing and circling her hands around her breasts, ready to take his seed all over her. “Yes, my big bear, come here,” she purred at him as he straddled her, keeping his hips high so he could fuck her tits. He took control of her breasts, pressing them together with the right amount of friction and allowing her to finger herself to a third climax. “Please…yeah…oh, cover me in it,” she begged, staring up a him looming over her.

He’d been so close before, it didn’t take long for him to spread across her neck and chest, his growl echoing across the neighborhood. Their companions inside, all occupied with other things, each raised a curious eyebrow, Astarion hiding a wide grin as well. “Mmmmm fuck,” Tav squealed, vibrating from her final climax as he huffed above her. She reached her slick fingers up to slid his copious seed across her skin, drawing them up her neck to her lips so she could taste a bit of him.

“You are so beautiful,” he grinned widely, resting on his heels, watching as she slicked his cum all over herself. “You make me feral,” he leaned down to kiss her. “Do you mind if I transform and lick you clean?”

“Maybe later,” she teased, sliding her hand up his chest again, getting more of his scent on her. “I want to smell like you for a bit.”

He let out a low growl, kissing her deeply before returning to her side. They lounged in the sun for a bit, their fingers softly caressing each other’s thighs. Astarion eventually ventured out, curious as a cat as to what exactly they’d gotten up to out on the balcony. He grinned widely when he found the pair both glistening in the sun, fully nude. He could smell them both, his loins beginning to tingle. He hadn’t done anything other than kiss Halsin up until now, but felt himself getting closer to taking things further. “I didn’t know we had a nude beach going on out here,” he teased as Tav opened her eyes to see who was blocking her light.

“You’re welcome to join us,” she grinned, watching as his eyes drifted down her body, seeing all the new bite marks and hickeys Halsin had left on her. He leaned down to kiss her, Halsin’s scents heavy on her skin. It made him stir even more, his eyes glancing to Halsin, who was already blushing deeply.

“I can cover up,” Halsin sat up, reaching for his discarded shorts.

“No need,” Astarion smiled, unbuttoning his pants and untucking his shirt. “We might as well all enjoy the sun as nature intended.”

There was barely enough room on the wooden lounger for the three of them, Astarion making his way to the opposite side of Halsin as he undressed. Tav propped herself up on her elbow, watching as he stripped, his cock still flaccid, but excitedly pink. He had more self control than she did apparently. He climbed beside Halsin, stretching the beautiful pale of his skin out in the early afternoon sun. He propped himself up on his elbow as well, looking them both over. “We’ve done quite a number on her, haven’t we, druid?” His eyes continued to scan her glistening, but marred flesh.

“Indeed we have,” Halsin’s blush deepened. “I am pleased we can share her so throughly.”

“I was thinking,” Astarion pulled Halsin’s face towards him to give him a gentle kiss, only releasing his lips when he knew any longer would make him aroused. “We might soon share her…together. Once we deal with this damn brain, of course.”

“I’d like that very much,” Tav blushed, feeling an anticipatory pulse between her thighs.

As much as she loved their playful competition to own and mark her body, having them both, and seeing them together as well, stirred something deep inside her very core. Her nectar oozed from her just thinking about it, her thighs shifting to quell the sensation for now. They remained lounged in the sun together for while, before thirst and hunger drove the living elves inside. Between Halsin’s scents all over her and the thought of soon having them both at the same time, Tav grabbed a quick bite and then headed to a bath.

She was practically trembling by the time she climbed in, her fingers going to her cunt immediately. She finally washed her lover from her skin as she slowly fingered herself, her toes gripped into the edge of the tub as she braced herself with her feet. She thought about having both of them at once and watching them together, eager to see the stark contrast of their sizes. She caressed the fingers of her free hand across the marks of their desires, her hunger for them just as needful. She would face down the Netherbrain herself if need be, to allow herself more time with them. Each tender wound was a reminder of how much so wanted to give herself over to them completely. She loved them both more than anything.

She swallowed her moans, letting her other hand drift between her thighs as well, driving her towards yet another climax. Her joy couldn’t be contained, her voice crying out loudly, trying to form it into a song so her companions didn’t have to hear her a second time today. She continued to sing, her legs trembling against the tub, creating her first composition dedicated to her lovers. She quickly collected herself and dried off, finding a sheet of paper to write the notes down immediately. Astarion sought her out again, his superior hearing catching all of her song. “Perhaps we should stay at your cottage from now on?” he brushed up behind her, her robed frame bent over a table to write. “To spare our friends the opera.”

“Hmm, that would probably be best,” she chuckled, scribbling down the last of her notations. “Do you remember how the last part went?” She grinned, knowing he had likely heard it all.

He wrapped his arms around her, nuzzling his face into her neck. He hummed the last part of her spontaneous melody, swaying his body with hers as he did. She scribbled down the final notes, setting her pen down and placing her hands on top of his. “I’m glad you have such a good ear,” she closed her eyes, still swaying with him in silence.

“Your voice still makes my skin tingle, every time,” he spun her around, holding her just as close and kissing her deeply. He led her in a simple dance, his body guiding hers as she picked up the steps almost instantly.

“You know, I was always the entertainment at those fancy balls, but I wanted nothing more than to dance with someone,” she looked up at him.

“I’ll happily take you someday,” he stopped his steps, dipping her into an even deeper kiss. Their impending fight with the Netherbrain so near, he couldn’t help but fantasize about a life with her afterwards, their chances of survival so slim. “Will you sing that song for me again…tonight?” He smiled at her when their lips finally parted.

“How about we write a new one?” She pulled him in for another kiss.