#if i have to suffer in an office environment so does he

[frnkiebby]

he’s so dumb i loVE HIM~🎃

[legobiwan]

So I find it a little odd that Mario shakes his brother's hand like he's trying to win political office rather than having just been rescued (again) from one of King Boo's paintings at the end of Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon.

But then I was thinking - this might be a kind of instinctual response.

From what we can gather over the three games, being stuck in a painting isn't a passive experience, but one that is disturbing, disorientating, and mostly likely tantamount to torture.

And given King Boo's abilities, who knows what kind of environment he has dropped his victims into with these settings. The landscapes, you might say. There's no definite background in any of the trapped paintings, ghost or otherwise, but it does beg the question of what can be felt, seen, heard, or otherwise perceived by someone who is trapped in a portrait. Does the hunter create the cage, enrichment area and all, or are the trappings beyond the frame (inside the frame) more akin to being trapped within one's mind and all the pitfalls that could emerge from that?

We see three iterations of Mario being freed from the painting in each game. The first being total confusion and possible injury; the second looking like some kind of hallucination, given Luigi's concerned expression; and the third being a form of decorporalization (not a real word, but whatever), as Mario seems shocked to learn he has a body again.

The first might be attributed to King Boo's insistence of straight-up physical torture combined with E. Gadd's more medieval equipment, which had likely been less-than-tested in extracting someone from a portrait. (And if the de-portraiting process was that bad, imagine what it was like for the ghosts going in. No wonder they held a grudge. I love E. Gadd, but oh boi, is he the pinnacle morally ambiguous mad scientist).

Anyway, in the third installment, Mario definitely shows signs of having been disconnected from his physical form, perhaps meaning that his time inside the portrait reduced him to a neutered, mental representation of himself, incapable of fighting back in the real world. But this being said, he seems to recognize Luigi on-site, rushing forward to give him an enthusiastic hug, which is the reaction you'd expect after being freed from a pair of diabolical ghosts, one of whom is trying to thirst-trap the other through psychological torture.

So what's the deal with Mario's reaction in Dark Moon?

My guess is that King Boo trapped Mario in a painting that was a distorted reality, or perhaps a distorted version of Mario's own insecurities. It would account for the disorientation and the fact Mario comes out of the painting gladhanding his own brother like a stranger. (Which would also account for Luigi's concerned reaction - what the hell is my brother doing?)

And you figure, Mario, at this point, is a kind of figurehead, an idol, a hero of the Mushroom Kingdom. It's become his identity, it's who he is, it's what he does and is known for. Of course, part of this role is going around and shaking hands, being present - at least physically - at press conferences and speeches and all the like. The people need a focal point, a representation of their hopes against the violent and numerous incursions upon their land they suffer from outside forces (although in complete transparency, my personal headcanon is that Bowser's kingdom used to be comprised of at least a part of the Mushroom Kingdom, and that that land and sovereignty was stolen through a series of bad treaties by his father and some of the more malicious factions of the Toad Council, thus leading to both the enmity between the kingdoms and some serious economic and trade repercussions in the Darklands, but that's a whole other post.)

Mario must be so used to blindly shaking hands and putting up that front, that character, so much so that he doesn't even think about it anymore, and it's my theory that this is the version of Mario that emerges from the portrait in Dark Moon, perhaps having been wrested from some situation where this almost desperate attempt at approval was manifesting from Mario's own subconscious.

And poor Luigi. You have to wonder if one of his latent fears is becoming another empty face in the adoring crowd surrounding his brother. The Mario that emerges is not 100% connected to the fact he is Luigi's brother, it seems, is just putting on airs and the right words and actions as he may have been trained to do by the Toad Council. (Who, incidentally, are one of my favorite scapegoats in the series). Talk about a nightmare come to life.

It fits, in a way. Mario's first abduction results in physical harm, his second in mental, his third in more of a depersonalization - perhaps a rushed spell enacted by King Boo as he was, by the time of the whole hotel debacle, was far more preoccupied with his idea of trapping Luigi than enacting harm on anyone else beyond imprisonment. Because by the time Luigi's Manion 3 rolls around, King Boo is almost deranged in his obsession with Luigi, and I wouldn't be shocked if his non-existent heart wasn't into the nastier sides of portrait capture when it came to Luigi's friends and family. But oh boi, if he had captured Luigi in one of those paintings - good night, nurse.

[kohakurin8]

~ Elevator Hitch ~

What Does it All Mean!?

A brief theory on the symbolism and lore behind a really cool game

⚠️ WARNING ⚠️

This post will contain SPOILERS for the game and all 14 endings. If you wish to play Elevator Hitch before reading, you can download it for free at this link.

So, Where do we begin?

Elevator Hitch is a really cool isolated-loop surreal horror game. For those of you who aren't familiar with this concept, an "isolated-loop" is a time-loop scenario which only affects a single person, small group of people, single room, etc. — but does NOT affect the entire world or universe. This is where it's common to see things like acquiring an item in your inventory, getting murdered, then waking up again at the beginning of the day with the item still in your inventory.

This concept has been used in various different media, and to varying different degrees of complexity. But, honestly, I think this game is my favorite instance of it so far.

So our story revolves around Protag, a somewhat meek and nervous lil guy who comes to this office building to take an interview for a new job. All he knows is that his interview isn't on the first floor, so he gets in the elevator in an attempt to find it. Before the door closes, Coworker forces his way in, and the elevator suddenly shorts out and jams before you two can begin your journey. The rest of the game is your various attempts to exit the elevator (alive) which get increasingly bizarre — especially after Protag realizes that whenever he dies, time restarts to when they first entered the elevator!

Shame Coworker doesn't seem to remember anything, though...

Now, since the lore within the game is pretty cryptic, none of our questions about the situation ever seem to get totally answered. It's up to the player to theorize and surmise just what exactly is happening to Protag and Coworker, and that's exactly what I've come here to do.

Death and Clues on Every Floor...

Literally! Every floor is a single room containing at least 1 clue, and at least 1 possible death — including the elevator itself. But what's even more important than that is the lore that all of these scenes show you.

Interestingly enough, the lore all seems to revolve around who Protag is as a person, to the point that one of the floors is actually his childhood bedroom.

Kind of intriguing that everything about this environment is centered around him, huh?

Hold onto that thought.

Every room and scenario is increasingly more bizarre, featuring anything from Eldritch-esque beings to settings that could almost pass for torture chambers. Every puzzle requires something from a different floor, making it ridiculously easy to screw up and croak, meanwhile Coworker is so maddeningly unaware that even when he tries to offer advice it's just as cryptic as the situation itself.

It all feels a lot... Like Hell...

Not just as an expression, but actual Hell. Mind rending stimuli navigated through tedious puzzle solving, where the penalty is gruesome death and the only reward is more torture. A neverending loop of suffering and confusion. It's all quite hellish!

At first this feels a bit superficial. "Of course it's hellish, this is a horror game!" But, honestly, good horror like this game is rarely ever bizarre and incomprehensible for the sheer shock value. If all of these allusions were superficial, why would we have such a detailed and cryptic conversation with Manuel, the maintenance worker?

Why would every single "correct answer" to the puzzles have sinister undertones?

Why would the religious subtext in Protag's room be so subtle and yet so distinct at the same time?

So if we humour ourselves and follow this train of thought then that leads one to wonder...

Why would Protag be in Hell?

Good question! After all, he doesn't even seem to be aware of having any initial death!

But, we are given breadcrumbs to what sort of person Protag is through the various different scenarios that ensue. Some things are minor details, like his lack of remorse for feeding an innocent rat to a hungry black hole. Others are more intense and significant, like the clues in his bedroom...

Let's start with pointing out the obvious direction that Protag's dialogue trees nudge you in.

After all, this game is a visual novel, so of course there are points when your dialogue options matter and can very well change the outcome of the situation. However, most VNs have options that are distinctly "good" or "bad" for the story directions, often leading the player on a journey of teaching the protagonist how to be a better person.

But Protag.... doesn't become better...

All of his dialogue options are either:

• Confusion, Frustration, Disbelief

• Self-Deprecating, Meek

• Deceptive

• Lashing Out

Obviously some of these options are better for certain scenarios. Deceiving Coworker into giving you his lighter is a way better idea than trying to steal it and burning you both to death.

And deceiving your Doppelgangers into trusting you before your brutal betrayal is arguably better than trusting them and getting betrayed in return.

But none of these options point to Protag being a good person. As much as he learns to adapt to his environment, nothing he does teaches him how to be a better person than he started out as. In fact, some of them even lead him to commit murder himself!

Of course, this isn't saying that Protag is necessarily a bad person either. After all, his initial reaction to the Doppelgangers is to trust them and even show them pity.

We also get a lot of information about Protag from the floor that mimics his childhood bedroom. He was monitored constantly by overbearing and religious parents, to the point that one of the Bad Ends is his parents entering the room.

He couldn't sleep, plagued by nightmarish beings which he even made drawings of, and had to take sleeping pills just to cope (which may or may not have been hidden from his parents as well)

Considering this, and just the sheer amount of existential dread Protag has upon visiting this floor, it's very possible that his parents were abusive. His personality issues are probably a result of that abuse, meaning even though he isn't necessarily a good person, he also isn't inherently a bad one.

The Allusions of Suicide...

This should honestly come as no surprise, but this game does have a lot of potential allusions to suicide. Especially when taking into account what suicide means in Christianity...

I first noticed this in the dialogue on Floor 9 with Normal Guy, as well as the dialogue contained in Ending 13 (screenshot above). During the interview on Floor 9, Protag seems to struggle with answering most of the questions. When asked why he wanted a new job, all of the answers imply that he doesn't actually know why, and when asked why he left his old job, Protag states that "it wasn't a Real Job" or at least not one viewed as respectable.

Then, when attempting to leave the Lobby on Floor 1, Protag is blocked by an alarming figure who berates him. The figure taunts Protag with phrases he's likely told himself, like "you worked so hard to get here" and especially "you NEED this job"

Now, this game absolutely LOVES its workplace puns, and something about these ones just struck me as significant. Upon further reflection on everything going on, I realized that these phrases are almost synonymous with suicidal thoughts.

As someone who's experienced this myself, I understand that a lot of suicidal thoughts are rooted more in the desire for change, and not the desire for death. So consider this...

Protag isn't looking for a new job, he's looking for a new life. His old life didn't feel "real" or "respectable", likely because of whatever abuse he endured from his parents. After all, his childhood bedroom is described by him as his "old place", meaning he likely was living with his parents until somewhat recently.

So then when he finally passes the interview — passes this hellish elevator trial of self-discovery — and tries to flee, he's stopped by the thoughts of regret for taking his own life.

"You worked so hard for this new life, why are you throwing it away?"

"You NEED this change."

"You can't go back to what you were before."

Then there's the Sleeping Pill found in Protag's bedroom. It's not found in a pill bottle or any other typical storage, but rather it's under the bedsheets. This gives the impression that the pill either fell out of Protag's hand in bed, or that he was hiding the pills from his overbearing parents.

Then there's the fact that sleeping pills are a very common medium for attempted suicide.

This leads me to suspect that Protag either overdosed in an attempted suicide as a child, causing his parents to become even more protective.

Or... This is how Protag ended up at the office building in the first place...

Welcome to Protag's Purgatory

Yeah, you may have guessed it already, but I am in fact suggesting that Protag has committed suicide and is currently trapped in Purgatory. After all, if you consider the distinct hint at his religious background, it's not unlikely to be following the Christian belief that suicide will condemn you to Purgatory. In fact, the opening of the game, where Protag feels like the only one who doesn't know where he's going, is a reference to the nature of Purgatory.

Consider, also, the nature of the game. Everything you do in it is a sort of trial, and it all tests the nature of Protag's true self. Not to mention that Purgatory is an unchanging limbo, just as the game paints a picture of an unending time-loop on repeat.

Protag took his own life, and his penance is to be trapped in an unending trial of self-discovery. Floor 9 resembles Heaven, like Cloud 9, where Protag is administered one final test. Normal Guy gives Protag the option to have become a better person, and possibly pass on to a better afterlife, however our dialogue tree tells us that Protag hasn't reached that level of self acceptance yet.

Therefore, the only options are what appears to be working in Purgatory (possibly like Manuel), enduring the trial over and over again, or as hinted by the eerie staircase downward in Ending 14, descent into Hell...

You're probably wondering if this theory accounts for Coworker, and it certainly does. After all, he seems rather unperturbed by the events he's undergone. I suspect he also committed suicide, but didn't have the same background of religious guilt that Protag had growing up. Coworker knows that he's supposed to go to the top, that he's supposed to pass on. He's at peace with who he is and where he's going, therefore he doesn't endure the same personal torture that Protag does.

No matter what ending you get in Elevator Hitch, nothing truly changes for Protag, because he himself hasn't changed. It's possible that there is some sort of future where Protag can change and move on — in fact, Normal Guy even hints that speaking to Coworker more could be the key to his salvation — but this possible future is one we will never see.

Because that's not the point of the game. The point is to become immersed in the torture which Protag goes through, and to try and unravel the mysteries of who he is and what he's enduring.

So there's my thoughts on the game. I hope you all enjoyed reading, and I'd love to hear any comments or input you have!

[its-time-to-write]

i know now it’ll pass - ch. 1

still me here

You have to understand, working at Nelson Road isn’t what everyone thinks it is. It’s a job. You’re not best friends with Ms. Welton, you don’t share inside jokes with Coach Lasso, and not a single member of the team could pick you out from a crowd. You talked to Keeley Jones exactly one time when she stumbled upon your office, lost in a hunt for Roy.

And none of that is bad. It’s not a bad thing. What it is is  good money and security to get your own one-bedroom flat as well as food on the table and whatever else you might need. You have a few friends there and your direct supervisor is nice and overall it’s a great environment. You’re not sure you could ask for anything more.

It’s just not as glamorous as people believe. 

Your friends think it’s great that you work in the same building as AFC Richmond legends like Roy Kent and Dani Rojas. They bombard you with questions every girls’ night, which you indulge with a laugh. 

As you sip your drink on the couch, surrounded by friends and giggles, you decide you live a pretty great life.

—

You don’t sleep well. You never have, and you’re concerned you never will. You’ve taken to sitting on your front steps with a blanket and a cup of tea in the hopes that it will cause your body to produce melatonin so you can get enough sleep to get through the day. Your “tea time” is usually anywhere from 2am-5am, and you’ve woken up many a morning curled up on the steps.

There are two good things that come out of tea time: the sunrise and your increased ability to cover up the bags under your eyes.

This Monday is different in that it’s worse. Much worse.

You’ve been on the porch for three goddamn hours, since 1am, and nothing is helping. You’re so tired that your eyes feel like little weights, and yet you can’t fall asleep. 

You’re leaning against a support beam with the realization that your work day is going to suck, when you see Jamie run by in the street. He doesn’t see you, what with it being 4:15am and all. Roy jogs by a few minutes later. You wince. You can tell his knee’s killing him by the way he’s running. He’ll probably take it out on the lads at training, and you find strange comfort in the knowledge that you’re not the only one who will be suffering at Nelson Road.

—

Oh god, you’re going to die. This is it, this is the end, death is imminent and you’re going to let the Grim Reaper snatch you with his scythe or whatever the hell he does with that thing. 

See, Mondays are when you get all your steps in because you’re walking all up and down Nelson Road collecting signatures and passing around documents. It’s usually pretty nice and culminates in a stop at Higgins’ office, who will offer you whatever candy he has at his desk or sometimes a cup of tea.

(He has a knack for offering the tea when you’re especially tired. You’re not sure how he can tell, but chalk it up to the plethora of sons he has.)

Anyway, this Monday you’re on your way to meet Higgins with a bundle of papers in your arms and you must have blacked out ever so slightly because you rammed straight into the team coming in from the pitch for lunch.

Documents are flying and you’re wobbly on your feet and now there’s like twenty beefy footballers helping you scramble to pick everything up while you say, “Sorry, sorry,” on repeat. 

“Not a problem, love,” says Jamie Tartt, handing you the completed stack. It’s a little wrinkled and haphazard, but all you can think about is the fact that you revealed yourself to be a klutz to the whole team. 

Girls’ night is about to get embarrassing. Especially because Jamie’s hand brushed yours for a millisecond and it caused literal sparks to shoot up your arm.

You’re frozen as they walk away, silently cursing your stupid screwed up sleep patterns. You had better get some sleep tonight.

—

You don’t. Your mind keeps replaying that touch like you’re a middle school girl who’s just discovered boys don’t have cooties. You wrestle a few hours in between 11 and 3, but find yourself on the steps again by 4, definitely not hoping Jamie runs by again.

He doesn’t.

—

Tuesday is not worse, but it’s not better. You’re eating lunch at your desk because you’ve decided never to leave it again, but unfortunately Jim in HR needs a signature and you’re the one who has to get up so he can collect it. You sigh and close your laptop. 

You’re padding to the other side of the building and congratulating yourself on the decision to wear flats today when you turn a corner and smack into something solid.

You stumble back but catch yourself before you hit the ground.

“God, I’m so sorry,” you say to Jamie Tartt’s blue eyes.

He half-grins. “Little wobbly there, innit?” he says before he’s gone.

Rats.

—

Tuesday night means you’re awake due to sheer humiliation. It’s bad enough that your celebrity crush is now Jamie Tartt, but the fact that you’ve literally talked to him twice and both times have been because you weren’t watching where you were going?

You have half a mind to email in your resignation, but as you put the kettle on for 3am tea you realize you need the stability Nelson Road provides. You’re not sure you can go back to living with three other flatmates.

Your only consolation is that there’s no way Jamie Tartt knows who you are or that his damn blue eyes are seared into your brain. 

You’ve snatched five hours of sleep this time, and you’re hoping you’ll be asleep again before the sunrise, but the odds are not looking good. It’s Wednesday, and you’re going to need all the help you can get in order to make it through the longest day of the week.

Jamie runs by again. Roy notices you under the porch light and gives a two-finger salute as he hobbles by. You raise your cup in return, grateful that he at least will have no idea who you are, much less that you work in the same building.

—

Wednesday is fine except you’re exhausted, and Laughing Liam’s goddamn laugh is making your head pound. You set a timer and fall asleep on your lunch break.

—

You take a breath. Then another. And another. Deep breaths, you remind yourself. It’s not that big of a deal. 

You skipped the porch in favor of staying in bed, with the hopes that maybe a softer environment would be more conducive for sleep. It wasn’t, and the bags under your eyes are not good. They are so not good that you can’t completely cover them. You feel so awful that you forgo tea in favor of coffee, extra strong. You down it in three burning gulps and head out the door, ready to face Thursday.

—

It gives you a headache, but you’re awake. You’re trying to kill the dull, persistent pain with some water but it’s not helping. You rest your forehead on the community water jug for a moment as footsteps walk past you, slow down, then backtrack.

“Porch girl,” says Roy Kent, recognition in his voice. 

You turn your head, still on the jug, and nod. Roy Kent nods back and grunts, “You’re up fucking early,” then keeps walking.

Ah shit.

—

Friday. It’s Friday. It’s Friday and you held off from sitting on the steps until exactly 2:37 at which point you felt that if you stayed in bed any longer, you would suffocate or go crazy. Maybe both.

You set down an empty cup of chamomile and pull your blanket closer as you inhale the crisp air. You feel something like sleep creeping up on you, so you close your eyes and finally succumb to the call.

You wake to someone shaking your shoulder and an urgent voice saying, “Oi, you dead? Can you hear me?”

You blink groggily, aware of the fact that you’ve just gotten maybe an hour of sleep and it isn’t going to be enough to get you through the day. Tears begin to slide down your face, unbidden, as you try to control your sheer frustration at being woken up.

“Oh shit,” says the voice, then Roy Kent says, “You fucking broke her,” and you think maybe you actually are still asleep and this is all a dream.

But it can’t be because the hand is still on your shoulder, and it’s warm and solid and there’s no way your subconscious would be so cruel as to have Jamie Tartt and Roy Kent find you passed out on your front steps.

Your subconscious wouldn’t be so cruel, but the universe apparently is.

You force your eyes open. Jamie and Roy look concerned.

“You alright?” Jamie asks. “Thought you were proper dead.”

“Jesus Christ,” Roy mutters, turning back to you. “Look, we’re sorry for waking you. We’ll get out of your fucking hair.”

You nod mutely as they turn and jog off. It’s not until they’re well out of sight that you realize they didn’t even ask your name.

Table of Contents

[silverthehedgehogharacteristics]

Silver Characteristics Part 1

Justice -  Driven by a strong Sense of Justice. Very confrontational because of this, will take on anyone to right wrongs or help his friends. Has zero tolerance for injustices and things like breaking promises. Seeks to settle scores(Sonic Forces) and get back for those that have been wronged(or himself if you mess with him). Sometimes grapples with doing the right thing. His wish is to maintain peace, not to eradicate evil(Sonic & Silver).

Hope & Optimism/Positivity - Embodies hope and does not give into despair no matter the circumstances(fought through the Iblis future in the hopes of seeing a blue sky). Believes “There’s always hope as long as you don’t give up”(JP Sonic Forces quote). Inspires hope in others in the darkest moments(Sonic 06 last episode, Forces, helping Elise through her anxiety in Otherworld Comedy). Has an “Honest, unpretentious and kind demeanor”(Sonic Channel Staff Column Wallpaper) and an Enchanting Smile(His smile fills Elise with trust and joy during their performance in Otherworld Comedy and a recipient he serves apple slices to can’t say no to his smile even though they're full already in Wallpaper Comedy 2022). “His way of life inspires people and makes them want to watch over him and cheer him on forever”(Sonic & Silver).

Kind - Is an Altruist with a strong desire to help others. His kindness is the only thing that can make him drop his mission as he can’t say no to a sad face and will stop to help those in need(Amy in 06, Soleanna Post Office in Sonic Pict). Actively goes out and does things like serve apple slices, deliver Christmas presents, play holiday mascots and engage in Cheerful Activities(Sonic & Silver). Wants to become a hero because it means being someone that can ‘protect smiles’, wants to “protect smiles” and make people happy because he grew up in a world where everyone lived in despair(Sonic & Silver).

Peace - Fights for World Peace. Empathetic to the world around him so his feelings reflect the state of the environment. Destroyed environments sadden and upset him while Beautiful Scenery and places with people prospering/living happily leave him breathless(in contrast to the apocalyptic suffering, darkness and devastation he’s experienced). Blue Skies make him feel at peace and people’s Smiles make him smile. These things are very important to him and he is vicious to anything that threatens them. Hs head quills are in the shape of a Japanese Red Maple Leaf which represents peace and prosperity.

Determination - Determined to protect peace. Arguably the most determined character. Doesn’t give up easily(got exact hedgehog apple slices after 40 tries) no matter how badly he’s hurt or how hopeless the situation. Has no regard for pain/massive pain tolerance(Kept fighting after being kicked in the head by Shadow and skipped across the street like a rock by Sonic in Generations, endures "pain beyond description” caused by his powers in Sonic & Silver).

Forthright - Straightforward and Honest to a fault, he cannot tell a lie(though he can change the subject). Is direct, blunt and wears his heart on his sleeve. Like his namesake he is said to have purity(Sonic & Silver).

Brash - Described as “Young and Immature” by his creator Shun Nakamura. So straightforward and honest that he’s Rude and Blunt. He has no filter and will call you an idiot to your face if he thinks you’re an idiot. So direct that he often ignores manners and social customs(even Sonic says that he has an attitude in Rivals). Abrasive and quick to insult enemies and competition. Prone to sarcastic remarks(“What am I doing?” when traveling with Amy in 06, "They think THAT is what the future is like? Please." in Colors DS). Headstrong(Doesn’t take kindly to being treated like an amateur in Otherworld Comedy Act 8). Has a Mischievous Side(Commemorative Illustration Series). In Japanese he uses informal/rude impressions “Ore”(I) and “Anta”(You)(instead of the polite “Anata”), points directly at people as he talks to them(confrontational rude gesture) and crosses his legs while sitting(roughly the Japanese equivalent to putting your feet on a table). Has a Henery Hawk-like personality, especially in the Rivals games(He has almost everything in common with that character) Informal overall in contrast to the polite mannered Future Trunks.

Naive - Has a Black and White mindset/Innocent in his ideals. Expects people to believe him when he says he’s from the future or explains outlandish situations just because he knows them to be true. Can be unfamiliar with things in the past. Can sometimes take things literally(has an angry “What’s so funny?” attitude when he doesn’t understand things).

Sentimental - Appreciates little things and finds great beauty in nature and simple parts of the world that most people take for granted(Comments on the beauty of a beach in TSR). This side of him ties into his peace themes due to his ability to appreciate beauty and serenity(also what a maple leaf represents) in various forms. Enjoys sightseeing and going on journeys(Colors DS, Olympic Games, Sonic Pict) because of this. Can be Introspective/contemplative(sits paused on his mission to destroy the Iblis Trigger in 06, thinks heavily about his worries about Dodon Pa in TSR). Says his favorite moment in racing is “seeing everyone come together and giving their all for a single objective”(Team Vector Interview).

Emotional - High-Spirited and Hot-blooded. Emotionally immature and unregulated. Feels joy and rage loudly but sadness and contemplation quietly(can get loud and carried away when riled up). Puts his all into what he gets invested in(I’m giving this everything I’ve got!). Easily angered/has a temper like Blaze(he’ll twist you if you mess with him). Needs to be calmed down/held back at times(Olympic Games). Dead quiet when contemplating his dilemma and the loss of Blaze in 06 or thinking about his anxious feelings in TSR. Can deal with things too head-on or take on everything himself because of the strength of his feelings(Sonic & Silver) which can make him Impulsive and Reckless. Is passionate and controlled by his emotions while Sonic and Shadow are calm and cool.

[stonesparrow]

I have this WIP and I don't know if it'll ever get fully written out so uhhhh throwing this summary blurb from my notes out there in case anyone wants to ask about it. I'd describe it as like...an office/lab assistant au with a focus on a slow burn three-way queerplatonic relationship.

Our Girl Friday

After years of getting nowhere in her job interning at a fashion magazine publisher and suffering abuse from her boss and coworkers, Ogawa Yuzuriha decides to quit, though she has a hard time finding another job. Suddenly, she finds an advertisement for a position as a personal assistant to a reclusive scientist, and jumps at the opportunity. Little does she know that her new employer and his bodyguard will change her life forever.  

Snippet under the cut:

Yuzuriha double checked the address. Then she triple checked it.

This…can’t be the right place, can it? Given the advertisement she was expecting something a bit more impressive than a nondescript looking house in the middle of an ordinary street. But no, the number was correct, and there was a little sign next to the door reading “Ishigami Laboratory.” After a moment of hesitation, she rang the doorbell.

An enormous man with dark hair opened the door, and Yuzuriha held back a gasp—he was quite handsome, with a strong jaw and impressive muscles.  

“Oh!” He gasped. “Hello! I—how can I help you, Miss?”

Yuzuriha shook off her shock. “Um, I’m Ogawa Yuzuriha. I’m here for a…job interview? At three o’clock?”

The man’s eyes widened. “Oh! Oh you’re—right, sorry, please come in!” Yuzuriha was ushered inside and to a couch.

“Would you like some tea, Ogawa-san?”

“Um, sure. Tea sounds lovely, thank you.”

As the man busied himself with a teapot, Yuzuriha glanced around the floor. It looked pretty much like how you’d expect an average home to be, with neatly arranged furniture and flowers on the dining room table. This doesn’t exactly seem like a science laboratory…

The man set down a tray with two cups of steaming green tea. “Oh, I should introduce myself! I’m Oki Taiju, S—Dr. Ishigami’s bodyguard.”

Yuzuriha fought back the urge to raise an eyebrow. What’s a bodyguard doing giving job interviews? “It’s nice to meet you, Oki-san,” she said politely. 

Oki smiled at her. “So Ogawa-san, you’re interested in being Dr. Ishigami’s personal assistant?”

Yuzuriha nodded. “I saw the advertisement in the paper, and I applied right away.” Not technically a lie—she did apply to the ad immediately, along with three other jobs that had already rejected her. Personal assistant wasn’t exactly Yuzuriha’s dream role to play, but she needed something to pay the bills and it didn’t seem too difficult. 

“Is that envelope for me?”

“Yes, I brought my resume and credentials,” Yuzuriha said, opening the envelope she’d brought with her and handing Oki the papers inside. He scanned them appraisingly as she sipped at her tea, eyes widening. 

“You last worked at a fashion magazine, Ogawa-san?”

“Yes, as secretary to the editor,” Yuzuriha said. “I know I don’t have much experience listed with being a personal assistant, but I’m well versed in answering phone calls, sorting mail, and organizing schedules.”

She’d hoped to rise through the ranks and acquire some connections in the fashion world, but that work environment…Yuzuriha repressed a shudder. Quitting that job was probably one of the smarter things she’d done in her 30 years of life. 

Oki nodded. “That’s mostly what we’re looking for anyway. Dr. Ishigami doesn’t have a lot of time to answer messages, and if he ignores people too much they get upset.” He handed the papers back to her. “Would you be okay with starting tomorrow?”

Yuzuriha blinked. “Huh? Aren’t you going to ask me some more questions before just giving me the job?”

 Oki scratched the back of his head awkwardly. “Ah…I’ll be honest with you, Ogawa-san…you’re the only applicant we’ve gotten in weeks.”

Yuzuriha stared at him. “Oh.” What was she supposed to say to that? “I…would’ve thought that a renowned scientist like Dr. Ishigami would have people lining up to work for him,” she said eventually. 

Oki sighed. “Yeah, you’d think that, huh? But Dr. Ishigami is…” he shrugged. “He can be a bit…much, for some people. Not that he’s a bad person! Really, he just doesn’t mix well with others.”

“I…see.” That could be a red flag, but Yuzuriha really, really needed this job. “Well then, I’ll do my best!”

Oki smiled so blindingly bright Yuzuriha nearly had to shield her face. “That’s great!” He bowed his head suddenly and she squeaked in surprise. “Thank you so much, Ogawa-san! Really, from the bottom of my heart, I’m so grateful you’ll be working with us!”

“Ah, I’m glad too!” Yuzuriha stammered. Was he that desperate for someone to accept the job?

Oki stood up. “Okay, let me give you the tour!”

“So, um,” Yuzuriha said as Oki led her through the house and pointed out the bathroom, the office where she’d be working, and the library. “Dr. Ishigami’s laboratory is also his home?”

“Yep,” Oki nodded. “He doesn’t like commuting to work, and he’s very particular about the way his equipment and research is set up—he doesn’t want anyone else messing with his process. The lab covers most of the basement floor, while the rest of the house is living space.”

“What’s Dr. Ishigami’s schedule like?”

“Oh, right!” Oki nodded. “Okay, so usually he gets up around 10am, works until 2pm, has lunch, then works until 7pm, has dinner, then works until 1am and goes to sleep. Unless he has an event or a meeting he needs to go to, that is. You’ll be in charge of keeping track of those.”

“Uh, right…” Yuzuriha tried to focus on the frankly very generous wages she’d been offered. “So then…shouldn’t you show me around the lab?”

His face fell. “Ah, well…Dr. Ishigami doesn’t really like strangers in his working space.”

Yuzuriha frowned. “But I’ll be going down there at least a few times every day, right?”

Oki scratched his chin. “Well, he’d prefer it if you didn’t. There’s a phone line in the office that goes directly to the lab, if you really need to talk to him while he’s in there. Otherwise you’ll probably only see him in the mornings and when we go to meetings or events.”

Okay, the flags were getting a little redder, but Yuzuriha tried to look on the bright side—at least the guy wouldn’t be constantly in her face all the time like her last boss.

With the tour complete and the paperwork in order, Oki saw Yuzuriha out the door, and she found herself looking over her shoulder at the house as she walked away.

I hope this isn’t a mistake…

[litcityblues]

'Diplomatic Immunity' --A Review

I know it's actually May, but a new year means that I am continuing ahead on the Honorverse Saga and now I'm dipping back into the Vorkosigan Saga as well with the 13th Book in the Series, Diplomatic Immunity.

The book opens with Miles and Ekaterin on their honeymoon, wrapping up an extensive tour of various galactic sites before heading back to Barrayar just in time to open the replicators and welcome their two new children to the world. This being the Vorkosigan Saga and Miles being a (relatively) new Imperial Auditor, they naturally get diverted to deal with a diplomatic crisis in Quaddiespace.

Quaddies- if you are not familiar with the series are genetically modified humans who traded out their legs for a second set of arms so they could live and move more easily in a zero gravity work environment (Falling Free, which Is set 200 years before the start of the main series is sort of their origin story-- I'll get to that eventually, I promise.). Anyway, as it turns out, a convoy of Komarran Merchant ships is prevented from leaving Graf Station thanks to the somewhat reckless behavior of their Barrayaran military escorts, and to top that mess off, a Barrayaran security officer is missing, presumed murdered and another Ensign has deserted: for love.

Miles and Ekaterin arrive and Miles begins the process of untangling the diplomatic mess, only to be reunited with an old friend: his former Dendarii colleague, the Betan hermaphrodite Bel Thorne (last seen in Mirror Dance or possibly Memory I think-- no longer with the Dendarii, but still working with Imperial Security.) Bel is happy to see Miles, but hints that they would like to be released from Imperial Service so they can settle down with Nicol (a Quaddie musician Miles met earlier in the series while in Jackson's Whole-- in 'Labyrinth') and Bel tells Miles that there is something strange about the missing security officer, but they can't quite figure out what it is.

In short order, Miles discovers that he's in the middle of a plot by a renegade Cetagandan Ba to kidnap what turns out to be an entire cargo of embryos stolen directly from the Star Creche itself that it hijacked near Rho Ceta. Miles instantly realizes that this spells big trouble and a potential war between Barrayar and Cetaganda-- but before he can put a stop to it himself both he and Bel are infected with the same highly lethal bioweapons that was used to murder the missing Barrayarn security officer and nearly die, but manage to reach the nearest Cetagandan world just in time. They cure both him and Bel- though not without both suffering some permanent side effects and he returns the embryos to Cetaganda, averting a war and managing to make it home with Ekaterin in time to meet their new children.

I switched from snagging these on Audible to getting them off Kindle around about Memory I think and that was, oddly enough, the perfect time in the series to do that because as Miles transitions away from the Dendarii and into the role of Imperial Auditor-- I don't want to say the quality of the writing improves, because that's not true, it's always been good-- let's just say that the series matures with its character and the writing reflects that.

Diplomatic Immunity might be the first in the series that has so many callbacks to prior volumes. I don't think you have to read other books in the series to understand this-- McMaster Bujold has always been good at providing context for readers, even if it's only a sentence or two-- but it does add an extra dollop of charm as you get to meet characters from prior novels. I don't know if we're scheduled to see Bel Thorne again in future novels, but if not, then I think this is a nice, (relatively) happy ending for them and I like that. I also enjoyed the fact that this tied back to the events that happened in Cetaganda quite nicely as well-- for all the talk of the war with Cetaganda and how it hangs over a lot of the Barryaran experience, this is only the third time that Miles has tangled with them directly.

(Also, am I the only one who thought that Dubauer being called Dubauer was going to be a callback to Shards of Honor?)

I saw a recent Reddit post proclaiming McMaster Bujold as 'the most underrated writer' in SF/F and while the comments were quick to point out that she's got plenty of Hugos and Nebulas that would indicate that she's very rated and appreciated and has commercial success to boot, I would characterize her as perhaps 'the most discoverable' writer in SF/F? At 74, her output is not what it was at the height of her run in the late 80s, and early 90s and I know damn well that if I had found these books as a kid, I would have eaten them up instantly. Finding them now, in adulthood-- I can't tell you just how happy these books make me and how much I love these characters, and how I desperately wish someone who treasures these books would work up a screen adaptation because they are RIPE for the taking.

Overall: Excellent, enjoyable, delightful, charming, a great addition to the series and I ran right through this book because I just didn't want to put it down. My Grade: **** out of ****

[nothingspecialherern]

After seeing the 4th episode i was really disappointed. The gateway arch and its museum have a colonial history much more far reaching than environmentalism, and for once I genuinely expected the directors and screenwriters to address it because the issue was brought up by the characters themselves. But then… it’s just about animals. It’s kept to animals. And every nuance for indigenous communities’ rights and sufferings under colonialism was just thrown out the window. 

I wanted to make it clear that Grover’s character stands as the reason for caring for animals; it makes sense for him to take the stance he does because he is a satyr, and as such, dies with the forest itself. He is, for all purposes, a spirit of the wild and cares for its inhabitants equally to humans. This isn’t the real issue. This is fine by itself. 

But why are the forests dying? Why is the wild disappearing? Pjo has always stuck to Pan disappearing as a reason-- again, not bad for fantasy reasons. But when they talk of it, Grover diagnoses the issue by pointing to humans as the ones who kill the environment. Annabeth agrees wholeheartedly, that humans are to blame for the environment around them. 

This is the real issue. The issue is thinking that all humans are predestined to hurt the environment; that the future itself is always opposed to nature. Not all humans would do that-- not all humans do that! The indigenous community does just fine as stewards to the nature around them and living with, not on, the land. Even ‘Land��� isn’t a good description; the world, the air, the water, the spirits, the animals, and humans are all included in ‘Land’ as a concept. That balance requires action and consequence, which have been carefully passed down through specific and important indigenous methods (oral history, artistic creation and appreciation, physical practice of methods, etc). 

My point is, the thing that Grover is frustrated with is not humans. It’s white settler colonialism. And I feel that the ones writing this script had every chance to bring it up as it pertains to indigenous communities-- or at the very least learn not to call settler colonialism the fault of all humans. It would have been so easy for Annabeth's reply to even be as simple as 'colonization' or something (and hey-- that response has no outright gore-- it's even a vocabulary word for middle schoolers). But they don’t. They leave us with a sense of shame for humanity, rather than showing us that the destruction of the wild only started in the Americas a few hundred years ago, and was done by white settlers and colonizers. That is the legacy of the Gateway arch.

I fully understand that genocide is not something we should bring up lightly, nor something that should be available to children of a certain age. As someone getting their MA in History and moving forward to be a part of the academic community, I also understand that even minute details of saying 'humans' instead of rightfully painting a fuller picture of ' white settler colonialism' can radically change how we perceive native peoples. We must be specific, and hold ourselves accountable.

Rick has done great work in learning as he goes about racism in writing, but he's just not there yet. Especially with his history of the description of Piper, it's not easy to say that he understands the indigenous community at all. And hey-- I have yet to meet another historian who does! I've been dragged into offices and told to move to a different college just because I cover indigenous history (even as a white American), so it's not easy to learn and grow in this area. But we must. And I think that talking about these issues now can pave the way for better representation and talks about legacy in the future.

[venusjailer]

Will I ever stop pathologising the AP main characters and creating incredibly detailed backgrounds riddled with childhood trauma? It’s unlikely!

(INSANELY LONG) (LIKE INSANELY) (YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED) EXPLANATIONS BELOW

(And If you have hc’s feel free to share!)

Patrick: cmon. The entire plot of AP is literally him just begging to be noticed.

Bro is devoid of attention right until the very last scene (aka the one with his lawyer). Sorry to all the SiGmA mALe AMPS fans but this is not a “sigma 🥶”, this is a man who did not receive a MORSEL of affection during his formative years.

His obsession with ‘fitting in’ (ie being accepted and therefore cared about) through his clothes, his looks, his social circle; his outbursts of intense emotion and inability to regulate them (almost as if he was never taught how to do so); the way he views the women in his life in an almost maternal way (namely Evelyn and Jean) - he just needs a hug!!!

And some intense therapy. And heavy duty psych meds.

Paul: this one is partly canonical, partly not.

The way that his character is almost revered by the other guys at P&P is interesting; he comes over as this über cool, competent, successful finance bro almost to a greater extent than they think they are.

But then he gets drunk with Patrick away from the office and from the constraints of corporate professionalism and becomes this silly goofy little guy.

I don’t necessarily think his work ‘persona’ is an act: I think it’s the parts of himself that he has to accentuate in order to succeed.

Also - I took influence for this from the amazing Paul character studies written by my dear friend @leoblooms on AO3 - please check them out

Luis: this one is pretty self-explanatory.

He’s the only confirmed canonically queer character in AP (although, come on, Patrick’s canon closet is made of glass at this point). And yet - in a way that so many LGBT+ people have suffered with throughout history and sadly even to this day - he can never, ever show it. Being openly gay in his environment would make him a social pariah.

Instead, he has to fit in: he’s marrying a woman, he’s acting like ~one of the guys~, he’s hoping that he can suffocate that part of himself by burying it six feet underground. But as so many of us know all too well: you can’t hide who you are forever. The bathroom scene with Patrick just proves this.

I also wanted to make a note of this because it’s very interesting to me - I read the most AMAZING fic a couple of years ago that was written from Courtney’s perspective, and in it it was mentioned that Luis is Catholic. I’m a Christian as well (from a famously progressive denomination) and although a lot of attitudes are changing within the Catholic Church, particularly right now, the ‘gay = sin’ mentality does prevail for many.

So it makes sense that if Luis was raised Catholic he has been suppressing that part of himself for a very long time. I can see him lying to himself and having girlfriends in high school.

Courtney: my literal baby girl. I’ve written a whole 18k character study on her because I find her so canonically fascinating.

My headcanon is that her father was absent from her life from a young age - but this is rooted in how she actually acts in the source material.

In the boardroom scene, Luis thanks Patrick for “taking care of Courtney last night”. To me, it sounds like he’s taking on a role that’s almost paternal. She is also notably reliant, and almost clingy, on the men in her life: telling Patrick she can’t go out because she’s waiting for Luis to call, and practically begging Patrick to call her after they’ve slept together.

Additionally there’s the whole ‘fucking my best friend’s boyfriend’ thing - I’m getting WAY off topic here but I see so much of her in Cassie from Euphoria. Unless someone is purposefully malicious and nasty, I think there’s always a reason for that kind of thing, even if it is complex and unsavoury.

I hate to use the term “daddy issues” because it absolves absent/abusive fathers of all of their damage and unfairly places the blame on young women, but if I had to describe a reason for why she might act in this way - having seen it first-hand myself from many people - that would be it.

Evelyn: so I did take some influence from Reese Witherspoon’s character in Legally Blonde here - but I think Evelyn is actually one of the smartest characters in AP and so I feel it’s fitting.

She comes over as incredibly ditzy and shallow, but remember we’re seeing and reading all of this from Patrick’s perspective - of course he’s not going to have a high opinion of her, because…it’s Patrick Bateman were talking about here.

In reality, she’s probably one of the most socially clued-in characters. For example: she effortlessly hosts big gatherings with grace and decorum even if the majority of guests are, let’s be honest, fucking insufferable.

She’s also the only character who can actually handle Patrick and meets him on his own level. She absolutely refuses to take any of his bullshit (“what am I supposed to do with that? Floss with it?”).

Her actions and force prove her to be the strong willed and savvy and to me that suggests intellect, as much as it may be hidden - again, due to the environment she exists in.

Bryce: he’s so interesting.

I’ve not written as much about him in my fics as the others, but his actions in the source material suggest that underneath his finance bro Wall Street image, he’s someone who’s very disillusioned, and almost broken.

I really wish the scene of his…episode?…in the club hadn’t been cut from the film. I’d recommend anyone to watch it (and the rest of the deleted scenes because they’re class) if they’ve not seen it already.

There’s also The Informers, the book and film adaptation of another of of Bret Easton Ellis’ works, which features a young Tim Bryce (referred to as Price) and the complex relationship with his father. I’ve not read/watched it in full yet, but whilst they’re on holiday Bryce’s father gets drunk and acts lecherous and gross towards young women on the beach, and Bryce is disgusted by this (perhaps he’s not as much of a raging misogynist as his peers?), and then makes ‘joking’ comments about Bryce being the subject of attraction by other men, to which Bryce walks out on him (perhaps he’s less condemning of homophobia than the others? Or, possibly…maybe he has less than hetero feelings himself? Not to spoil any of Mergerizations but I headcanon him as bisexual tbh).

This behaviour suggests that, at least as a teen, Bryce was very assertive of what was and wasn’t okay and was happy to make these views known.

But due to bullying by his father and, again, the environment that he likely grew up in, he has to suppress this part of himself to be accepted.

WOWWWW that was a whole ass essay. If you’ve read to this part, 1) I’m sorry 2) THANK YOU 3) I love you!!!!

[shalscumbunny]

Dear Doctor | Chapter 4: Privacy

Summary: Shalnark suffered a small injury while investigating some things for the Gen'ei Ryodan, his intention was that a doctor would cure him and nothing else, unfortunately that doctor was you and what you least expected is that one of the most wanted criminals in the world would end up becoming obsessed with you.

Pairing: Shalnark X F.Reader

Warnings: Harassment, recordings, spy cameras, the reader does not know she is being recorded, male masturbation

Author’s note: I always mention it in all my writings in English, but better safe than sorry, English is not my native language so it is very likely to find many mistakes and also that I know practically nothing about writing “X character and Y/N”

I am not a doctor so I will say my life excuse for everything, “I am a social science student”, so if something is wrong I apologize

Sites: AO3

What exactly is privacy? The right one has to hide intimate things? Well, someone like Shalnark really doesn't have the slightest respect for that word, much less when it comes to you.

Of you and the beautiful love story that he formulated in his head, to Shalnark you are soulmates who belong and love each other, a relationship so deep and intimate does not need something as ridiculous as privacy.

Since he installed the security cameras in all the environments you are in, your privacy is not something that interests him very much, he does not care much, even if he is murdering someone in cold blood, he probably remembers that you are doing something that he likes see and he will have no choice but to turn on his cell phone and continue stabbing the man who begs for mercy while he watches on cameras how you drink a hot cup of coffee.

He has several monitors in his study, he could be hacking into a bank's website, stealing a couple of million, and at the same time he watches on the other monitor as you work in your office with that beautiful smile that melts him.

Thanks to the cameras, he knows your routine backwards and forwards, now his favorite moment of the day is seeing you arrive from work, a sweet smile forms on his lips when you throw your briefcase on the floor and rush to the couch for a few minutes, exhausted.

He can only sigh enthralled when you go into your bedroom and take off your clothes, the invasion of your privacy has reached a point where the order in which you remove the clothes from your body has been learned; first the top, then the bra, you pull down your pants and finally you take off your panties.

He bites his lower lip following your journey to the bathroom through the cameras. At that moment his cock is sore and hard inside his pants, but his eyes remain fixed and almost without blinking, watching you enter the shower and the warm water falls on your tense body.

Shalnark steps back in his seat opening his pants, his erect cock shoots out of his pants onto his abdomen, completely swollen and in need of attention.

He watches you silently, although you can't see or hear him, he feels that a single noise from him could disturb your peaceful bath.

His turquoise eyes make a beautiful contrast with the brightness of the screen, they shine with lust and desire while his hands clumsily play with his swollen cock that is already releasing precum.

He is watching how you soap your body, your arms, your legs, your abdomen, your breasts and finally your vulva. His breathing is labored when the camera focuses on how you use your fingers to open your lower lips and caress the area with water to clean it. He feels his mouth watering, he would give everything to bury his face there, to lick and suck your folds and clitoris, to witness the warmth of your beautiful entrance.

He's sick and eager for you, his expression gives him away, he's lost in thought as he masturbates, he gasps excitedly imagining himself in that shower next to you, grabbing your hips and pushing his cock into your tight, sweet pussy, he bites his lips imagining the hot and pleasurable feeling that your rubbery walls would give to his hard cock.

Shalnark perceives you as his, no matter what, he loves you and wants you intensely, he only thinks about possessing you, he only squeezes and pumps desperately imagining the sound of your moans and whimpers, he grunts imagining your tearful and red face as you moan his name, the stimulation is so much that his balls are swollen and throb with need for you.

Shalnark's hips began to push upwards as he moans your name excitedly and desperately.

"Doctor...shit...doctor...you are so tight...so hot...I love you so much...Fuck..." He speaks with his eyes closed tightly feeling his balls tighten "Y/N... You’re mine...only mine..."

Finally, the right thing happens, Shalnark grunts with pleasure and his semen shoots out with such force that it hits the keys of the computer, he remains weak and breathing hard, he felt good, but when he sees that you continue bathing calmly, he knows that it isn´t enough, his hand isn't enough either... you are the only thing he knows will be more than enough.

Finished his daily ritual, he cleans himself, sighs trying to lower his temperature and lies down on his bed exhausted looking at his cell phone, he sees on the cameras how you yawn and lie down directly to the side of the camera, Shalnark had spent a couple of nights watching you sleep in your apartment without you realizing it to find out which side you slept on and put the camera there, of course he covered both sides just in case, but he's proud of himself for correctly guessing which side you were sleeping on.

His eyes have a sickly-sweet look as he watches you rest, he can't help but fantasize about the day when you both sleep in the same bed, he smiles imagining your head resting on his chest and the smell of your hair in his nose while he kisses the top of your head lovingly.

"Good night, Y/N" Shalnark whispered softly, turning off his phone, leaving it on the nightstand and falling asleep.

Thank you so much for reading my shit 🖤

Chapter 3 <- Chapter 4 -> Chapter 5

[monstercampus]

Holy shit, i loved the Dean Lysandre piece! Igot a few questions:

1: how big are the eggs? Because if the dean wants 10, how big is the poor human gonna be? (might be drawing this over the weekend hehe)

2. Would the dean take pleasure in showing off his little human wife or would he keep his little treasure all to himself like the greedy dragon man he is?

3. Would he allow the reader to keep being a student or would he just write her off as "graduated early with honors" and then just move her into his home?

4. Would the dean have a special little area in his office for his human? Hidden by curtains, but behind is a very round bellied human asleep on a plush round bed with her school papers scattered around her?

5. Would any drama happen on school grounds with royal dragonic families being pissed that the dean married and breeded with a human? Any dramatic acts of petty revenge??? (does the dean find himself being very protective of his human????👀)

6. Is there any very domestic habits the dean and his human would do? Of course between fucking like rabbits, what kind of sweet doting things would the dean do??

Sorry if this is a lot, my brain is racing

hehe 🐉🐉🐉 dragon time!!!

1 -> With other dragons they tend to show only when they're carrying a whole clutch of eggs at one time, since they usually carry them until they’re close to hatching to keep them safe before they've laid. Surprisingly, even though it's incredibly rare for dragons and other species to breed (at least when they're not hiding it from the world) dragons have a very sophisticated egg process that translates well to other species, even if they're not of the egg-laying variety. While a human or other monster could carry several eggs at once, knowing Lysandre he isn't going to want you to strain yourself--so he'll likely only have you carry one at a time if you're going to carry it to near full-term, which would probably look no different than a normal human pregnancy from the outside.

But! The other way, and perhaps the preferable way, is a process known as "long-term laying"--in which he would deposit several eggs at once, fertilize them, and then have you deliver them within 1-2 days. The eggs are much smaller and easier to pass at this stage, probably not any bigger than a cue ball, and once they've been laid they'd be buried at the bottom of one of the gold piles in his hoard for at least two moon cycles. Although it's usually only practiced in this fashion by the nobility nowadays, it's an ancient form of preservation for the draconic species that's saved quite a few bloodlines from going extinct and has been practiced by all manner of dragons. The eggs will grow to be about the size of an ostrich egg within those two months, but after that period has passed their growth will stagnate and they'll go into a sort of hibernation state, which they can stay in practically indefinitely in nearly any environment until they’re unearthed and incubated into hatching. Lysandre himself was the product of this kind of egg process, as his bloodline and dragon species was declared extinct for about 400 years before his egg was recovered and he was hatched under an adoptive couple. So, with you being human, he would likely encourage you to go that route so as to monitor your condition better and make it easier for you to endure the birthing process....though that doesn't mean he won't eventually let you try incubating them longer, if only so he can spend more time rubbing that pretty, swollen belly you've got <3

2 -> Greed is definitely a symptom he suffers from and he wants to keep you all to himself, but he knows better than to be like that when you're not at all used to the possessiveness of dragons. Yes, he'll get grabby and greedy and spill filth into your mouth as he humps you throughout the night, but in the day you're completely free to roam the grounds and visit whoever you like, talk to your friends, go out for drinks, and play sports or do your little hobbies on your own. He trusts that you'll keep your interests as a couple in mind and he really doesn't worry about that aspect too much, the only thing he does do is jump at the chance to frighten off anyone who might push your boundaries too far and try to make a move on you. He loves knowing that when you're out and about without him everyone still knows you're his partner, and he's more than comfortable with that....though, when you get home, he's usually got plenty of reasons to remind you of whose bed you're sleeping in every night. Very, very carnal reasons.

3 -> You can certainly keep being a student if you like; he lives on campus for the majority of the year, so it's no bother at all to make time for each other if you still want to attend to your studies. He'll constantly (and secretly) be cancelling his meetings and saving paperwork to do late at night so he can spend quality time with you between classes, but if you're over the whole school thing or you're eager to graduate he'll pull the strings you need. Most of the professors at MC can be bribed pretty easily anyways (it's a monster thing) and it's not considered that unethical in monster society, so a few favours and gifts here and there and you'll have your honours diploma in your hands by the end of the week. And then you're allllllll his.

4 -> He does! Since he lives on campus, he's got a semi-secret entrance in his office that leads down into the depths beneath the school, where he keeps his hoard tucked away in the MC vault. Although he does own an apartment in the staff living quarters, he's got his own private living space down there that would be perfectly comfortable for a human with a few touches here and there. You wouldn't be down there all the time since there's no natural light or sunlight, but it's the perfect place for you to rest when you're carrying your eggs and an ideal spot to keep close to when it's time to lay them.

5 -> Absolutely! Dragons are dramatic creatures and you should expect to witness some rather flagrant displays of jealousy and snobbery while you’re in the Dean's care. Challenges to duels, attempts at bribery, and marriage proposals to your draconic lover while you stand right next to him are all things you unfortunately have to be prepared for. But Lysandre has nearly perfected the art of stoic rejection over his lifetime and will turn each and every one of them away, although his politeness will wane not with the stubborn ones, but the ones who turn their ire towards you or try to turn him against you with false rumours and lies. That's when he'll offer to fight their proposed duel in your stead, and each and every time he does their champion will turn and flee with their tail between their legs at the very thought. Draconic duels are to the death, after all, and next to nobody wants to fight for their life against a Drakon--especially not when he's so angry he's grinning from ear to ear.

6 -> Lysandre loves walking with you, so a daily stroll is often how he expresses his affection. It's never too strenuous (and if you get tired, he'll be carrying you) but there's always something interesting to see on your way, whether it's a new patch of flowers you never noticed or an adorable frog hopping around the pond. But if you're up for it, he's always eager to take you flying--it's a common form of affection for dragons to fly side-by-side, it's even considered to be a sign of good luck to see a dragon couple flying together overhead. And he can reassure you that you're safe on his back, he'll even wait for a windy day so he doesn't have to flap his wings as much in case you get sick from the motion. Aside from that, his love languages are usually gifts and acts of service, so brewing your tea for you, crafting little golden gifts and trinkets, and carrying or flying you places are some of the more common ways he shows affection. And kisses, of course! Lots of big, sloppy dragon kisses <3

[mastomysowner]

Japanese and Italians think alike

I recently finished reading the surreal mystery/horror manga Soil by Atsushi Kaneko, and I must say that I'm fascinated by the concept of foreign bodies. A few quotes from Some Explanations on Soil, written by the translator:

In other words, when people do disgusting, abnormal things, it creates rifts through which SHIT enters our world.

Italian horror writer Luigi Musolino's collection of short stories, Un buio diverso (A Different Darkness), deals with the same theme. It's framed with excerpts from the grimoire of worker-writer Enrico Bedolis (local Abdul Alhazred) The Science of Dead Environments.

To quote the intro: "Certain areas on Earth, due to their location and geometry, are affected by dark forces that bring energies of other dimensions into our world. Because the line between Here and There is very thin and is becoming thinner and thinner due to the unworthy behavior of the human race."

It was mentioned somewhere that Bedolis also wrote about the struggle between light and dark energies, but this is a horror book, so it's about SHIT. Does it get existential? Yeah. I liked the story Where the Lighters Go the most, so here's my translation:

One completely ordinary night, suffering from insomnia and feeling how strongly it was blowing from the old windows, Edo Taverna found out where the lighters go.

At two o'clock he got out of bed to smoke a cigarette - maybe it would help drive away the thoughts about work that were keeping him awake? And for ten minutes he wandered around the rooms looking for a lighter.

It disappeared somewhere. Lighters kept disappearing somewhere.

Edo had no doubt that he had placed the lighter with the stylized skull next to the TV. But it wasn't there.

Maybe in jeans? Not there either.

On the nightstand too...

Standing in the semi-darkness, Edo replayed the past day in his head. Well, of course, Gigi probably stole the lighter from him when, after work in the office, they stopped at the bar to drink a Spritz. Gigi had such a bad habit. But damn, to steal a lighter?..

“It’s not like I did it on purpose, I have something like kleptomania,” he even made excuses, this idiot. Edo mentally told him to piss off and promised that he would personally beat him to a pulp, and then continued the search. There should be more lighters in the apartment - the question is where, of course.

The house hides, but does not steal, his mother liked to repeat, and she knew what she was saying.

Edo rummaged in the corners of the sofa, in the drawers of the desk, even went through a stack of magazines lying on the toilet tank.

Nothing.

You can light a cigarette from the stove in the kitchen, but now this is a matter of principle.

Edo remembered that he had a blue lighter with white patterns - seems like he dropped it over the headboard a month ago, when, after sex with an overweight goth chick he met on Badoo, they shared a cigarette; the girl called herself an expert on Wicca, and spent most of the evening chatting about a strange book written by some Piedmontese worker. Listening to her talk made Edo sad, and he decided to return to the good old masturbation to Pornhub videos.

Deciding to move the heavy sofa away from the wall, Edo, with an unlit cigarette in his teeth, pulled the net on which the mattress lay with all his might. He thought that now he would see rags of dust, dirty napkins, boogers and porn magazines from the nineties.

Overall, he expected to find anything, but not what he found.

His head began spinning, the cigarette slipped out of his mouth and fell onto his leg.

“Oh my God. This is crazy,” he was amazed and squatted down, not knowing whether to laugh at his discovery or pinch his scrotum to wake up faster.

Behind the headboard, in the wall, there was a meter by meter opening. A square of darkness. Trying to find a reasonable explanation, Edo Taverna decided that, most likely, the bricks had simply collapsed - maybe water had accumulated in them, or maybe it was a defect in the building's structure.

Then he saw narrow, shabby steps going steeply down, and all his logical arguments went to waste. Edo hovered at the doorway for about two minutes, thinking about secret passages and medieval castles, and then took out his cell phone and turned on the flashlight. Carefully, from afar, he began to probe the hole with a ray of light, slowly approaching it, as if the opening could close at any second, and the plaster and cement could grasp his hand in a death grip.

Only the steps were visible, nothing more. It looked like they were made of stone, and the surface was covered with some kind of greenish web - either mold or rot. The passage seemed narrow, but there was enough space for one person.

– Hey! – Edo shouted into the darkness, but absolute, frightening silence swallowed his voice, not even returning an echo.

Swallowing sour saliva, Edo sighed, bent his knees and stepped over the threshold. Then he began to descend, bending down and feeling how low the ceiling arches were hanging.

Slowly, carefully, he descended lower and lower, holding his cell phone in front of him. The staircase was completely straight, without turns or landings.

Edo had been walking the steps for what must have been an hour, pausing every now and then to catch his breath and wipe the sweat that had dripped down his eyes.

This is impossible. Impossible because he lives on the fourth floor of a house in Rosella, a residential area of ​​Turin. Edo again tried to find an explanation for what was happening, but, realizing that it was useless, he decided to rely on fate, never ceasing to be amazed at its surprises. Curiosity and the feeling that something important was waiting for him there, at the foot of the stairs, turned out to be stronger than fear and the voice that whispered to Edo: “Go back, where are you going?”

After a couple of hours of descent, the lifeless light of the flashlight encountered a dim yellow glow coming from below. Edo turned off his cell phone.

Gradually the steps became gentler, and when they ended, Edo found himself in a short corridor that led to a huge hall.

The phone dropped out of his hands.

No, the hall was not just huge.

Never in his miserable life had Edo seen such a gigantic room as this butane-scented underground cathedral. The walls and ceiling were lost from sight. And on the shiny floor, as if made of obsidian, which instilled horror in Edo with its blackness, stood in a chain all the lighters that he had lost during twenty-five years of smoking.

Lighters that fell between the seats of the car, stolen from him on crazy teenage drinking sessions, forgotten in clothes taken to the trash heap, bought from a Moroccan in Liguria, the ones he used to open beer, light fires on the beach, from which he lit joints, heated hashish, multi-colored limited edition lighters, and finally those given away and lost - they were countless, especially lost ones.

They were all burning; the flames ran in coils to the center of the hall, merging into one huge, dazzling, yellow-blue fire.

Opening his mouth, Edo walked along the chain, recognizing each lighter, and felt that his eyes were blurring with tears. Each was associated with a certain moment in his life, and these memories floated before his eyes one after another.

Just like before death. Exactly as before death.

Edo walked for a long time until he finally reached the place where the chain originated. He saw a lighter with a stylized skull and extended a trembling hand to take it. But the metal slipped from his sweaty fingers, and the lighter fell right onto another, small one, which - exactly! - was taken from him at Milan airport in two thousand and two.

Domino effect.

Destroying the order, the lighters began to fall one after another and go out.

As if spellbound, Edo watched the play of light and shadow created by the running flames. Finally, the last lighter fell, and darkness reigned.

And at that moment, Edo Taverna suddenly saw that, in addition to lighters, the ghosts of all the losses of his life had gathered here in the dungeon, and he had lost a lot: self-esteem, the only woman he loved, youthful dreams of becoming a football star, buying a house, having children; he was overcome by remorse for lying, for saying too few words of support to his father while he was alive, for forgetting how to enjoy small joys, and for much, much, much more.

Very, very many losses, and all this awaited him here, in the dungeon, and all this had teeth, claws, tongues and eyes - bottomless, black, terrible, bloodshot, you can go crazy looking at them.

They were getting closer.

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has vetoed a bill that would have given the state the power to close beaches if tests show water does not reach the state's health standards.

DeSantis made the call this week, despite Floridians being warned against swimming due to "fecal pollution" just two months ago.

If the bill had gone through, local authorities of beach waters and public bathing places would have had to notify the Department of Health whenever testing water was below recommended health standards.

The Department of Health then "shall require the closure of beach waters and public bathing places that fail to meet the department's standards if it deems closure is necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public," the bill read.

But Desantis wrote in his veto letter that the bill "suffers from a fatal infirmity" as it "grants authority to the Florida Department of Health (DOH) to close beaches, waterways, and swimming pools."

He said: "Health Departments like DOH can serve a valuable function, but they should not be vested with the power to supersede local jurisdictions regarding the operation of beaches. I have made water quality and protecting Florida's natural resources a priority and my Administration will continue to do so, but this grant of power to DOH over Florida beaches is ill-advised."

On June 13, the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County Healthy Beaches program issued health advisories for Dubois Park, Sandoway-Delray Beach and South Inlet Park.

Sampling showed bacterial levels to be more than 71 colonies per milliliter of marine water, putting the beaches' results in the "poor" category.

Anything that is seen as "poor" should be "considered a potential health risk to the bathing public," according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

At the end of April, the same department told residents not to swim at several beaches, including Midtown Beach and Dubois Park, in Jupiter.

Water in these two areas had tested positive for high levels of enterococcus bacteria, which the department said "is an indication of fecal pollution."

It added that this may "come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage," and could put swimmers at an "increased risk of illness."

In both spots, water was recorded as "poor", meaning it measured 71 or greater enterococci per 100 milliliters of marine water.

Infections from enterococci "are typically not considered harmful to humans, but their presence in the environment may indicate that other disease-causing agents such as viruses, bacteria, and protozoa [a microorganic parasite] may also be present," according to the EPA.

Newsweek contacted DeSantis' press office, via its email address, for comment on this context and was directed to his veto letter.

[usbshitake]

So, I figured I post it here since I shitpost about DBH and Gavin Reed anyway 🤷🏻‍♀️😌 things I have found myself and what is interesting about DBH & Gavin Reed in specific:

1. Detroit PD considered a big one (in life and in the game), since they have their own SWAT team (also according to chat GPT - SWAT members are working in the same place as Connor and etc - Captain Allen, and a cop from the march of peace)

-there is a one finished cigarette in every trash bin around the PD (because it’s one model of it). It’s, I guess, suppose to reflect how cops usually managing stress (it does reflect reality, considering many agencies try to promote healthy lifestyle, and make officers smoke less. But they still do of course)

2. Gavin Reed:

Eyes: Grey

Height: 180 cm (Average for American man)

Complexity: Fit

-Childhood:

Childhood of someone as Gavin Reed characterised by neglect, abuse (emotional, physical).

Father figure: Could have been Cop/Ex cop/Security guard/Military. Possibly abused substances: alcohol or drugs.

It’s most probable his father was abusive and demanding perfection when everything “was not right” which would have formed a need to prove himself and not to show vulnerability and care, love, gentliness.

Mother figure: Passive or absent. Very probable she have suffered from her abusive husband, tried to confront him and became passive, indifferent, cold and eventually absent leaving Gavin deal with everything on his own, making him distrust people and not believe in their genuine intentions of kindness and love, care and willingness to help.

So that’s how he developed counterdependency

- According to chat GPT it’s possible that he have grew up in gritty neighbourhood in tumultuous family environment: drinking father (factory worker/ex cop) who vented his frustrations at home due to which there were heated arguments. This environment made him determined to escape it and make something of himself. Possibly, he had to work from a young age to support his family - this forced responsibility at a young age contributed to the development of a hardened exterior. Also, that would explain his dislike of Hank’s alcoholism and unprofessionalism, and inability to form friendly connections.

-He possibly worked/works/was training for SWAT unit. There is a cap on his desk that looks like what real-life Detroit SWAT’s can be seen wearing (such can be found on Po. Wilson too) (patrol cops don’t wear a round ones in-game). Also, I looked up - what is suggested for real SWAT members to wear the answer is - “base layer shirt”, it looks exactly like what Gavin Reed is wearing. Such, can be also seen on a Robert Lewis. (In real life it’s possible for detective/sergeant/lieutenant to be a member of a SWAT team). Also Gavin’s overall fitness and reactions, reactiveness (while fighting with Connor he could dodge the bullet. What even Captain Allen couldn’t do)

Or, else, this type of hat can be just reference to real-life DP:

-He’s the only one in the office who has file on his desk “request a criminal record” (this document is needed in investigation to request criminal record about the suspects)

-his desk also has a clock that looks like a police award for job excellence, but it says “polcy officer” (I suppose developers could not place the whole word/or they didn’t expect someone to read that much into details)

-Crime scene: in Eden Club, he says “wasting your time. Here’s some pervert that had more action that he could handle”. He’s smart, otherwise he wouldn’t work as detective. Stating that the guy is a “pervert” he’s indicated the guy died due to chocking fetish especially considering “got more action that he could handle”. (Obviously he wanted to brush off this job and not have anything to do with android cases. Also drive Hank and Connor away so they would fail.Their failure would mean total annihilation of androids including those who killed a guy, so it’s only logical to interfere, it would be killing two birds with one stone) (btw have you noticed the guy killed - is the same guy who was on protest against androids and pushed Markus if you were to pass next to the crowd?)

-Authority:

He dislikes authority due to being “The debater” (ENTP) these people have an ability to confront old, unnecessary rules that do not work, they shake/give in a doubt to an outdated notions. If he would ever have a respect for someone, it’s not due to them having a status (being superior in position), but due to contents of their work/personality.

Also because of (and most probably) counterdependency.

Counter-dependents lack trust in others and fear the consequences of doing so. They resist asking for help, even when it is reasonable to do so, and seek to be completely self-reliant.

It is formed in early stages in life.

The cause of counter-dependency often derives from being abandoned or neglected as an infant or young child. Due to the trauma stemming from the lack of parental attachment, complete independence from others will result as a form of protection.

-Hank and Gavin:

Captain Fowler hinted that all other cops are overworked, so THAT’S the only reason they give Hank the android cases. Hank is 2-3 years having a drinking problem, not showing up for work/or showing up late. This is obviously unfair, the work of Hank often has to be distributed among other cops - which can be a cause of distress. Also, even with being such unprofessional (we love Hank but let’s face it) Fowler closes his eyes on such inappropriate behaviour. That, and dislike of authority, I see as the main cause for Gavin’s hatred towards Hank. When Hank draws a gun at him in interrogation room (which is a huge violation and is seen as unprofessional conduct) Gavin says: “you’re not gonna get away with it THIS time”. So, it’s not the first time! Imagine someone getting away with EVERYTHING just because he’s friend with a captain! Also, the prove of all that, the first one on the crime scene is Gavin while it’s Hank’s call (there is a Night Shift rotation among detectives. But also, calls involving androids should all be on Hank). So again, Gavin has to take Hank’s job and show up to the case he has nothing to do with. So his feelings towards Hank are fully justified. Neil Newbon have suggested that Gavin looked up to Hank (due to Hank being a good, profesional cop before death of Cole) and got frustrated and resentful with him due to seeing reality of things.

“Neil Newbon suggested in interviews that Gavin Reed's admiration for Hank Anderson, another character in "Detroit: Become Human," eventually turned to frustration and resentment. He speculated that Reed likely looked up to Hank as a mentor or father figure but became disillusioned when Hank didn't meet his expectations or live up to the image Reed had of him. This shift in perception could have contributed to Reed's negative feelings towards Hank.”

It can be, but I feel like someone like Reed doesn’t care for an authority, he looks up to himself instead. Although, he might have had a respect for Hank’s achievements (being the youngest lieutenant in Detroit’s history) previously and seeing Hank as a broken man might’ve contributed to his negative attitude towards Hank for sure. So, while I think it’s not entirely based on that, it definitely could have affected his relationship towards Hank.

-Other relationships:

“Ambitious and unapologetically arrogant. He has garnered the hatred of his colleagues in record time. Ruthlessly ambitious, Reed will do anything to advance his career, even if it means treading on other peoples' toes. His hostility to Lieutenant Anderson is common knowledge."

That’s why he’s mostly seen around rookies (they’re most probably the only ones who can still tolerate him/work with him due to their fresh-rookie enthusiasm) other than older colleagues, because “He has garnered the hatred of his colleagues in record time” (the reason why he goes around with Chris Miller who doesn’t work long in Detroit PD)

Rookies are less likely to confront him directly. He has it better with them for this reason, it’s not necessary due to them not posing a threat, but due to his lack of social skills and unwillingness to dive into everyone’s emotions. He probably has a hard time making deep, meaningful connections.

Tina Chen is always quiet around Gavin. He speaks with rookies and is relaxed and friendly with them unless they question his judgement and/or authority (there is his show of positive feelings for Tina - that can be indicated by how close he stands to her and trying his best to entertain with a story, articulating and smiling. There is a whole range of emotions we haven’t seen with anyone else). Possibly, he doesn’t perceive Tina as a threat for his career advances or reputation, so he’s generally treating her nicely. Doesn’t mean she appreciates his aggressiveness towards Connor (she’s genuinely shocked when Connor was hit in the stomach). But she definitely respects him.

Gavin treats Chris worse than Tina. Again, because they have to do things together. Because Gavin bosses him around, the last doesn’t appreciate it much. In interrogation room he’s irritated with Gavin. But it seems at the same time Chris respects Gavin’s judgement despite him being an ass. Chris helps him around when Gavin’s PC is broken (if you stay long enough in PD Chris will start helping Gavin with broken PC)

Where the difference of his relation comes from? Tina vs Chris?

“Reed's behavior towards men and women likely reflects a combination of personal biases, power dynamics, and social influences, rather than a deliberate preference for one gender over the other.”

“Reed's behavior towards women could be influenced by a combination of manipulation, social norms, desire for control, and self-preservation instincts, rather than a genuine concern for their emotional stability or a belief that they will naturally defer to his authority.”

- Forming relationships:

It’s most likely he has a hard time forming deep/meaningful relationships:

“Several aspects of Gavin Reed's character in "Detroit: Become Human" suggest that he may have difficulty forming deep or meaningful relationships:

1. **Hostility and Aloofness**: Reed's abrasive and hostile demeanor towards others, including his colleagues and androids, indicates a lack of openness and willingness to connect emotionally.

2. **Isolation**: Reed often appears isolated or disconnected from others, preferring to work alone and avoiding social interactions unless necessary.

3. **Lack of Empathy**: Reed's lack of empathy towards androids and his dismissive attitude towards their sentience suggest a limited capacity for understanding and relating to others' emotions and experiences.

4. **Inability to Trust**: Reed's cynical and distrustful nature may hinder his ability to form trusting relationships with others, as he seems to view most people with suspicion.

5. **Resentment and Grudges**: Reed's resentment towards his colleague Hank Anderson and his tendency to hold grudges suggest unresolved emotional issues that could impact his ability to form healthy relationships.

Overall, these traits collectively suggest that Gavin Reed struggles with forming deep or meaningful connections with others, whether due to emotional barriers, trust issues, or a general lack of empathy.”

-Anger issues:

“A guy who’s always angry, is a guy who’s depressed. Women get emotional, men don’t like feeling emotional so they get angry, they don’t like feeling weak? So they get angry. They don’t like feeling defeated? So they get angry. They don’t like processing their pain or their hurt or their trauma? So they get angry. What happens when a man gets angry? He feels strong: testosterone fires, endorphins, you’re on your forth front, you get in your fight or flight cycle, you’re strong, you’re not weak”

- Sexuality:

While it’s not explicit on how it is, 2 things are certain: he’s competitive with men (alighting himself with them, taking socially common behaviour of males being “one of them”, fight for raise in hierarchy)/doesn’t like to be dominated (“fucking android is not gonna tell me what to do”, “Chris, you gonna move this asshole or not?”) and he hates androids, in setting that is realistic/close to real these 2 things go against him developing feelings for men/androids, the only one he’s been open and relaxed with is Tina Chen - he smiled, tried to entertain her, kept himself quite close (till 45 centimetres is a close-comfort zone that people who are close are let in), also shows signs of shyness (brushes his hair, looks away, his eyes are fully open and brows relaxed), being playful (smiling, articulating). When he taunts Connor he looks back at her which can be a sign of preening:

“Gavin Reed's behavior in the break room scene, including taunting Connor and looking back at Tina Chen, could be interpreted as a form of preening. Preening refers to behavior intended to impress or attract attention, often by showing off or seeking validation from others. In this context, Reed's actions, such as making robot movements to mock Connor and immediately turning to Tina for her reaction, could be seen as an attempt to demonstrate his wit or assert his dominance in front of her. By seeking Tina's reaction, Reed may be seeking validation or approval, indicating a desire to impress or establish a connection with her.”

That can mean:

“preening behaviors, an open physical posture, leaning in, blushing, and prolonged eye contact frequently suggest that a person may be experiencing attraction“

In realistic setting it’s most probable that he can open to someone he can be relaxed with, other than those he “combats” with, those he is tensed with. The type of personality, dominant, they choose partners who are timid and quiet and follow their lead. With that being said, it’s not rk800, rk900 because it goes against what defined the character - competitiveness around men, hatred towards androids. Doesn’t mean he dates/likes Tina Chen, but probability of this is a lot higher than of all else.

Style of relationships: ENTP’s prefer fast pace, it’s hard for other people to adapt and keep up with their energy and thought process/ideas. Considering Gavin’s energy, his appearance and his flirty/adventurous nature + work demands/shift graphic + inability to form friendly/meaningful connections he would most probably lean towards ONS or friends with benefits other than long lasting relationships. Doesn’t mean he’s unable to commit/or change if the right person comes around.

-Leaving Detroit

ChatGPT have suggesting there is 70% chance that after successful peaceful revolution Gavin would leave the town. By my own observation- people don’t change easily, he has no reasons to stay or to change (no given motivation) consider how deep of a beliefs he has. It’s not only a hatred, it is based on his fearfulness of being unneeded, useless at work “what, machines gonna replace us all, is that it?”

-Provocation:

He does provoke Connor to get rid of him - let’s say you have a robot that is there to replace you, wouldn’t it be convenient if you push it a little, make it break, so then claim it was defective? That’s why Gavin looks for every opportunity to see a glitch/defect, to detect deviancy - to stop mass production of “android detectives”. He sees this as mockery, a parody on a real thing. And since work is the only thing he sees himself doing/enjoying, giving it away this easily is not in his character, as he stands up against whatever there is. So his actions are only logical. After all the first thing he says to Connor when sees him:

“So, machines gonna replace us all is that it?”

Also considering prior to Connor’s arrival an android took a girl as a hostage which only shows the danger of android deviants, especially one like Connor - who has access to PD system and has an enhanced body/system

It’s also proved by Detroit wiki:

“He believes that androids do not have feelings and that androids should obey humans without question. In addition, he probably feels threatened by Connor's presence, due to androids replacing people in jobs, subtly concerned that it is only a matter of time until androids start replacing him”

-Animal choice

“Yes, Neil Newbon has mentioned in interviews that he believes Gavin Reed is most probably a dog person. This suggests that he sees aspects of Reed's character that align with being a dog lover, although it's worth noting that this is Newbon's interpretation rather than an official confirmation from the game's creators.”

“Neil Newbon, who provided the motion capture performance for Gavin Reed in "Detroit: Become Human," mentioned in an interview that he drew inspiration from the movements of dogs, particularly pit bulls, when portraying the character. This insight into his performance sheds light on the physicality and mannerisms he incorporated into the role.”

According to his words and his own portrayal that he had in mind Gavin is most probably a dog person. Because:

“It's common for people to choose pets that match their energy level and lifestyle. This can create a better bond and compatibility between the owner and the pet. In the case of Gavin Reed, if his movements were inspired by the energetic and sometimes intense behavior of pit bulls, it's plausible that he might gravitate towards a dog with similar traits. This could indicate that Reed's character might prefer a pet that matches his energy level and demeanor.“

This could be supported by:

“The researchers ranked over 1,500 current and past dog owners of 16 popular dog breeds against several key personality traits, such as openness, extroversion, agreeableness, or emotional stability. The analysis revealed that, quite frequently, people choose dogs that match such personality traits.”

But! Considering his demanding work the probability that he owns a dog is very low.

3. Elijah Kamski

According to ChatGPT - Elijah Kamski is responsible for deviation. My opinion from what I have seen is almost the same. When Connor and Hank arrive to Kamski, he said he has his OWN test to understand if Connor is a deviant. If he created the test to identify deviants, this means, that of course he knew about them beforehand (possibly the reason why he haven’t seen eye to eye with Cyberlife and left it years before). Now, was deviancy a natural occurrence? Yes and no. As technology progresses it’s only logical to add more and more features, one of them could’ve been a trigger for a “new program” that is a deviancy, so it’s both of unnatural and natural cause. It’s clear that Elijah despite doing things for other people, is cynical and doing many things for himself, out of his own interest-curiosity, for his own entertainment (like purposely giving to Carl Manfred - Markus - android, that would deviate out of Carl’s calm, creative, loving nature. I believe at this point for Elijah is like a chess game). Also, a prove that Elijah is responsible- his models are NOT deviants (he check on them regularly), it is also clear due to how they act, they’re not “modern” androids.

All this proved by Elijah Kamski having “Kamski test” that suppose to detect deviancy. That means he knew about deviants from the very beginning (remember he has left CEO of Cyberlife position 10 years ago).

4. Ra9

Ra9 - is a concept, a “god” program that makes androids deviate. It is not the first Kara android like some people thought. The idea itself is great - Kara is the first one to deviate, “god” (ra9) “gave” her conscious to protect someone she loves, the most important- vulnerable child

5. Amanda

Amanda does not exist in other androids, only in rk series. She’s not independent deviant AI ( even tho the idea and a mind battle Amanda against Elijah would be so damn interesting). She’s programmed by Cyberlife, to keep profiting out of “explotation”of androids (I believe that is the ideology of Cyberlife that is the opposite of Elijah who, I assume wanted to grant them freedom as by himself) that’s why Elijah Kamski doesn’t give out info to Connor, he knows, Connor is a Cyberlife’s puppet, but when sees Connor can show empathy - gives him a “key” to escape the control. In case of killing Chloe in some walkthroughs he also gives you the way to escape - he gives YOU a free choice (as “god” figure. Btw Dbh has a lot of biblical representation)

[askdrunkbillcipher]

(Wrote this, and I’m probably some flavor of narcissist so I’m not getting enough attention and now the rest of you have to deal with it)

(Enjoy the drunk Bill angst)

The chattering of patrons wasn’t as loud tonight as it was usually in the dimly lit pub. A nearby decorative neon light flickered in and out of luminescence, but at least it didn’t make the room bright enough to worsen the ache in Bill’s highest angle. Still, to dull the pain and silence the voices in his mind he didn’t want to hear, Bill finished off his shot of whiskey and asked the bartender for more.

He wasn’t drunk. Not yet, anyway, as much as he’d like to be, but three shots of whiskey don’t do him any favors like they used to. At this point it didn’t matter to him how much money he owed. He just needed to stop feeling like shit again. He took a bit of comfort, though, in the environment itself, as O’Sadley’s became his safe space nearly one trillion years ago and he felt reasonably certain that being here was better than being anywhere else where he would have to suffer through reminders of things he’d rather not remember.

But isn’t it just another act of cruelty to try to forget?

Nope, that’s exactly one of the thoughts he’s trying to run from right now. He’s in no condition to deal with it. He heard a groan as he placed his own hand over his eye and leaned forward, realizing moments later that groan came from himself. He’s fine. Everything is fine. He’s getting his extra strength I’m Fine juice in his system and everything will be fine because it already is fine. He’s fine.

Another shot of whiskey practically materialized in front of him and he looked up to see the disgruntled bartender who no doubt was long since sick of Bill’s shit. He took the glass and immediately drank the entire thing before asking to just get the bottle already. The bartender complied with an irritated scoff and a muttered remark about the price, but before he could retort, Bill noticed the TV airing a broadcast on the election in some dimension he didn’t care about. He didn’t even bother to note the name. No, that’s not why this distracted him. What distracted him was unwanted memories flooding back.

—————————

“No! I hate the medicine! It’s icky and it hurts!”

His mother sighed. “Billy, I know it’s not pleasant, but you need to take it. It’s a new medicine, so maybe this one won’t hurt so bad.”

Euclid blatantly ignored the commotion going on in the kitchen. He had to make sure he looked presentable first. Not a speck of anything on his top hat, skin in good shape, dressed properly, it all had to be perfect.

Scalene tried to reason with her son, “we’re out of silly straws so you’ll have to take it from a normal one, sweetie.”

Was his tie on correctly? It needed to be just right, not so tight it would choke him but tight enough he looked respectable. Maybe it needed to be adjusted just a little-

“NO!”

Euclid tugged too tightly at the tie, strangling himself for a brief moment. He sighed irritably and went into the kitchen himself.

“Sweetie, please-“

“That’s enough, Scalene. Let me handle this.” Euclid pulled that charming tone of voice he does with his voters, coupled with the small chuckle. Scalene stepped aside, not given much of a choice. With her out of the way, Euclid spoke to his son in a stern but low voice. “Listen, kid. It’s a miracle they even let a triangle be mayor in the first place, okay? I’ve currently got the highest most prestigious job I could’ve asked for in my life. There’s a reason you only ever see circles running for higher offices. If I want to keep this job, I need to be better than my best. And your freakish eye? That can cost me so much. I don’t want to have to go back to selling real estate just because you think everything you drink needs to come out of a silly straw. It’s bad enough you have this… condition in the first place. And quite frankly, you should be grateful we’re trying to get rid of your hallucinations because most parents would’ve heard you claiming there’s a third dimension and had you sent to jail. So quit complaining and take your medicine already.”

Scalene heard every word of that, but not wanting to fight with Euclid, she busied herself with checking again for more silly straws. Billy leaned back, still trying to turn away from the medicine but now anxious from the sheer pressure his dad placed on him.

“But none of the other medicines-“

“I said take it.”

Scalene snuck in behind with a straw she had clearly modified to be a silly straw. “Look, it seems I found the last one! I’ll head to the store after your father’s speech today and get more, don’t worry.”

Sad but defeated, Billy took the medicine. It felt like tiny shards of glass washing over his eye, just like all the others did. He wanted to cry, but knew how Euclid would react. And so, he drank it all.

“Very good,” his mother praised him. “Would you like some juice now? As a little treat.”

Billy took the juice, eager to wash out the taste and feel of the medicine. It didn’t stop the pain but it was still a nice treat.

“Well, now that that’s settled,” Euclid turned to his wife, “how do I look? Think I’ll win over the undecided crowd?”

“You look nice, dear, but you and I both know the key to winning them over is a good explanation on why you couldn’t keep your campaign promise to lower housing costs.”

——————————————

The bartender brought him back an entire bottle. The cheapest whiskey they had, Bill could tell, but he didn’t care. It worked. It kept his mind away from the memories of his dad, the medicine, and what he’d do later. That’s what mattered to him. And soon enough, he’d be too drunk to even know why he was feeling as bad as he was in that moment. But first, he needed to chase away the thought that kept asking “why did you do it.”

[silverthehedgehogharacteristics]

Justice -  Driven by a strong Sense of Justice. Very confrontational because of this(Has zero tolerance for injustices and things like breaking promises, will take on anyone to right wrongs or help his friends(Mario & Sonic 2020)). Seeks to settle scores(Sonic Forces) and get back for those that have been wronged(or himself if you mess with him). Sometimes grapples with doing the right thing. His wish is to maintain peace, not to eradicate evil(Sonic & Silver).

Hope & Optimism/Positivity - Embodies hope and does not give into despair no matter the circumstances(fought through the Iblis future in the hopes of seeing a blue sky). Believes “There’s always hope as long as you don’t give up”(JP Sonic Forces quote). Inspires hope in others in the darkest moments(Sonic 06 last episode, Sonic Forces, helping Elise through her performance anxiety in Otherworld Comedy). Has an “Honest, unpretentious and kind demeanor”(Sonic Channel Staff Column Wallpaper) and an Enchanting Smile(His smile fills Elise with trust and joy during their performance in Otherworld Comedy and a recipient he serves apple slices to can’t say no to his smile even though they're full already in Wallpaper Comedy 2022). “His way of life inspires people and makes them want to watch over him and cheer him on forever”(Sonic & Silver).

Kind - Is an Altruist with a strong desire to help others. His kindness is the only thing that can make him drop his mission as he can’t say no to a sad face and will stop to help those in need(Amy in 06, Soleanna Post Office in Sonic Pict). Actively goes out and does things like serve apple slices, deliver Christmas presents, play holiday mascots and engage in Cheerful Activities(Sonic & Silver). Wants to become a hero because it means being someone that can ‘protect smiles’, wants to “protect smiles” and make people happy because he grew up in a world where everyone lived in despair(Sonic & Silver).

Peace - Fights for World Peace. Greatly empathetic to the world around him so his feelings reflect the state of the environment. Destroyed environments sadden and upset him while Beautiful Scenery and places with people prospering/living happily leave him breathless(in contrast to the apocalyptic suffering, darkness and devastation he’s experienced). Blue Skies make him feel at peace and people’s Smiles make him smile. These things are very important to him and he is vicious to anything that threatens them. His head quills are in the shape of a Japanese Red Maple Leaf which represents peace and prosperity.

Determination - Determined to protect peace. Arguably the most determined character. Doesn’t give up easily(got exact hedgehog apple slices after 40 tries) no matter how badly he’s hurt or how hopeless the situation. Has no regard for pain/massive pain tolerance(Kept fighting after being kicked in the head by Shadow and skipped across the street like a rock by Sonic in Generations, endures "pain beyond description” caused by his powers in Sonic & Silver).

Forthright - Straightforward and Honest to a fault, he cannot tell a lie(though he can change the subject). Is direct, blunt and wears his heart on his sleeve. Like his namesake he is said to have purity(Sonic & Silver).

Brash - Described as “Young and Immature” by his creator Shun Nakamura. So straightforward and honest that he’s Rude and Blunt. He has no filter and will call you an idiot to your face if he thinks you’re an idiot. So straightforward and blunt that he often ignores manners and social customs(Rivals 1/2, even Sonic says that he has an attitude in Rivals). Abrasive and quick to insult enemies and competition(snotty attitude). Prone to sarcastic remarks(“What am I doing?” when traveling with Amy in 06, "They think THAT is what the future is like? Please." in Colors DS). Headstrong(Doesn’t take kindly to being treated like an amateur in Otherworld Comedy Act 8). Has a Mischievous Side(Commemorative Illustration Series). In Japanese he uses informal/rude impressions “Ore”(I) and “Anta”(You)(instead of the polite “Anata”), points directly at people talks to(confrontational rude gesture) and crosses his legs while sitting(roughly the Japanese equivalent to putting your feet on a table). Informal overall in contrast to the polite mannered Future Trunks.

Naive - Has a Black and White mindset/Innocent in his ideals(06). Expects people to believe him when he says he’s from the future or explains outlandish situations just because he knows them to be true(Which causes people to think he’s crazy). Can be unfamiliar with things in the past. Can sometimes take things literally(has an angry “What’s so funny?” attitude when he doesn’t understand things. Says “Yes, why?” when Espio says “you want me to believe that?”).

Sentimental - Appreciates little things and finds great beauty in nature and simple parts of the world that most people take for granted(Calls Dusty Desert beautiful, comments on the beauty of a beach in TSR). This side of him ties into his peace themes due to his ability to appreciate beauty and serenity(also what a maple leaf represents) in various forms. Enjoys sightseeing and going on journeys(Colors DS, Olympic Games, Sonic Pict) because of this. Can be Introspective/contemplative(sits paused on his mission to destroy the Iblis Trigger in 06, thinks heavily about his worries about Dodon Pa in TSR). Says his favorite moment in racing is “seeing everyone come together and giving their all for a single objective”(Team Vector Interview).

Emotional - High-Spirited and Hot-blooded. Emotionally immature and unregulated. Feels joy and rage loudly but sadness and contemplation quietly. can get loud and carried away when riled up. Puts his all into what he gets invested in(I’m giving this everything I’ve got!). Easily angered(Gets indignant when Soleanna officials don’t listen to him in Sonic & Silver)/has a vindictive temper like Blaze(he’ll twist you up if you mess with him). Needs to be calmed down/held back at times(2012, 2020 Olympic Games, why he has stoic partners like Blaze and Espio). Dead quiet when contemplating his dilemma and the loss of Blaze in 06 or thinking about his anxious feelings in TSR. Can deal with things too head-on or take on everything himself because of the strength of his feelings(Sonic & Silver) which can make him Impulsive and Reckless. Is passionate and controlled by his emotions while Sonic and Shadow are calm and cool(Sonic & Silver).

Warrior -  fought and struggled for half his lifetime in the hellish Iblis future(Sonic & Silver), constantly fighting against Iblis, monsters and putting out disasters including Flame Tornadoes to bring peace to the world(06). Shadow describes him as a Fighter in Team Sonic Racing. Enjoys Fighting and can be quick to start fights(Fights almost everyone for both in Rivals 1+2 and Infinite in Forces, almost fights Blaze in Colors DS and Otherworld Comedy and Bowser Jr and Jet in the Olympic Games). Extremely Brave(Self-sacrificial, no regard for his own safety(Pumpkin Trigger), Instant fight response when surprised in Sonic Generations, does not back down in the face powerful threats like Iblis, Infinite or large disasters, fought Iblis monsters since he was Cream’s age). Values bravery and dislikes cowardice/cowardly tactics(Rivals 1+2, Colors DS, Team Vector interview). Has high aggression, determined expressions and aggressive body Language during anything he's focused on. Often makes fists, punches things when he’s frustrated and gets up with his fists in Sonic Forces. Due to his backstory he is deeply appreciative of peace and prosperity but also has a violent personality(Colors DS).

Focused - Is Focused on saving the Future(06 design docs). Very serious and focused when it comes to his mission or dealing with potential danger. Very proactive in dealing with things as he was the only one actively trying to defeat Iblis and change the world(06) and the only one trying to find the truth of Dodon Pa and Eggman(TSR). Has a Straight-To-The-Point mindset(doesn't care what the plan is called, only that it works in Forces) and doesn’t like things getting in his way. Very goal focused(even during competitions, he says the Jade Wisp Ghost ability is the only item he likes because it lets him disappear and focus on racing(Team Vector interview)). Takes things much more seriously than Sonic and sometimes gets mad at Sonic for not taking things seriously or messing around(JP TSR, PlayStation Magazine comic). Has pointed angular shape eyes like Sonic’s other rivals which represent intensity, danger and seriousness in character design.

Can be Ruthless - “sometimes calls forth great power without mercy”(Sonic x Silver). Has fought dirty(Played possum to hit Sonic in 06), tried to assassinate Sonic, snuck past Soleanna guards. Mugs Tails in Sonic Rivals 2(he’s okay with stealing), has no qualms with fighting small children like Tails or Bowser Jr. Leaves his enemies to die even if they beg for life(Sonic Rivals 2/IDW Sonic). Has the pragmatic “get-it-done” mindset of Future Trunks/will do whatever it takes to save the future.

Intuitive - Solves problems by using his mind in all his major game roles including figuring out how to revive Sonic(06), being a detective(Town Mission 13), uncovering Eggman/Nega’s plots(Rivals 1+2, TSR) and solving various puzzles. Very perceptive(Sees through Eggman Nega’s disguises by noticing small details), turns his fight with Sonic into a race to collect Chao to advance his mission(Crafty). Intuits Blaze trying to control great power when seeing it for the first time(Otherworld Comedy). Not trusting(Didn’t initially believe in time travel, Immediately suspicious of Dodon Pa in TSR, questioned Mephiles’ mission even as Blaze reaffirmed it as their only option, takes time to work with others in the Rivals series).

Challenger - Enjoys challenges and seeks out ways to test himself(Climbed Tokyo Tower, disappointed when Orbot and Cubot don’t pose a challenge). Very Competitive(Almost fights Blaze when they start one-upping each other over who could deal with Orbot and Cubot on their own in Colors DS). Self-confident and has a smug attitude about his abilities but is otherwise pretty humble(doesn’t think of himself as a hero but rather someone just trying not to mess up the timeline in Sonic & Silver, has a humble attitude when befriending Donkey Kong in Mario & Sonic). Cherishes his friends and strongly believes in/very grateful to those who help him. Regularly trains off screen like Sonic’s other rivals and is said to make Steady efforts to improve(Wallpaper Comedy 2022). Bold and undeterred by any threat(“We can take them all on!” when facing Eggman, Knuckles and Rouge in Rivals 2, “I’ll just destroy him everywhere at once” when facing Solaris)

Curiosity - Has a certain curiosity and likes seeing new and different things(“Interesting”). Can praise or call things cool as much as he can insults others. Might have a weakness for cute things(Has a soft spot for/plays with Chao in Sonic Rivals 2 and an official PlayStation Magazine comic). 

Skills - Powerful psychic with various super powers(Sonic Runners). Like Sonic’s other rivals he has various skills including car racing, acrobatics, fighting near the level of Shadow(they were both out of breath during their fight in 06), sharp shooting among the best in Soleanna’s 1500 year history(he takes offense to being treated like an amateur for a reason). Has been a detective, delivery boy, butler, top ranked ice skater and “genius” skating coach celebrity that helped taught others and helped Elise through her anxiety(Sonic Channel). Fly/Skill-type character so he specializes in more technical sports like ice skating and drives a car with high balance(TSR, Team Vector Interview).

Polar Opposite of Eggman Nega(Blaze’s best friend, Pure, Young, Honest, Rude, Empathetic, Impulsive/Reckless, Naive, Practical/Focused, Altruistic, desiring Peace and Happiness and willing to die to protect the world opposed to Eggman Nega being Blaze’s arch enemy, Twisted, Old, Deceitful, Polite, Psychopathic, Calculating, Sophisticated, Petty, Egoistic, desiring Chaos and Destruction and willing to die to destroy the world)

Enhancer-Emitter - Enhancer is someone that is determined and simple, never lies, hides almost nothing, is straightforward in actions and thinking, whose words and actions are often dominated by their feelings and is very focused on their goals. Emitter is someone that is impatient, not detail-oriented and quick to react in a volatile manner but can also calm down and forget easier

Lives in the good future when not helping Sonic in the present the same way Blaze lives in her dimension. Thinks things in Sonic’s time are dated(sometimes, in Sonic Rivals and Colors DS). Often implied/shown to like apples(Ate apple flavored calorie bars in the Iblis Future according to Sonic Pict) and live in Soleanna(He was originally going to be named Venice because he lived there, he may be Italian coded as his counterpart Galahad uses an Italian Cinquedea as a sword).