#it’s honestly one of my favourites across the two seasons

[fulcrum-art-fox]

“He likes you, Ava. That’s why he hasn’t killed you yet.” Ok this might just be me but that statement makes zero sense when applied to Adriel, but it fits Lilith herself so well. Adriel doesn’t really interact with Ava very much this season until the finale, and when he does I never got the sense he liked her very much at all, not even in the standard villain “you are a worthy competitor” way. But it fits Lilith way better. Despite herself, despite her rivalry and jealousy, despite all the terrible things Lilith does to Ava, deep down, she’s still her sister. Ava takes Mary’s “she was my sister of course I hated her” to heart, but so does Lilith. When the tarask showed up in season one Lilith didn’t hesitate to lay down her life for Ava’s, and when Ava has made the biggest sacrifice in season two and is almost certainly dying, Lilith helps Beatrice get her to the arc so she can go somewhere they might be able to heal her. She might talk big game, but when push comes to shove, Lilith can’t see Ava die

[enwoso]

What about a part to of for the better please? With Lovies reaction to Less scoring against united (and when Leah was shoved into the dug out👀🤣) from todays game ❤️

THE GREATEST — alessia russo x child!reader

honestly never wrote a fic so quick but i loved this request thought it was so cute☺️

grumpy masterlist

it was that time of the season, again. arsenal come against manchester united on manchester soil. alessia wasn’t as bothered this time around, her departure from the reds was buried and wasn’t as fresh and raw as it had been this time last year.

still, it brought some unwanted feelings coming up against her old club especially one she started her professional career at.

you on the other hand, since learning it was time for team to make the long journey up north and back to leigh sport village you had a frown plastered across your face.

you used to love being and watching your mummy play at leigh sports village but now you liked your new home in north london. you didn’t dislike manchester by any means especially since you sometimes made the journey with your mummy to see your auntie ella which was one of the few good things about manchester.

“so what’s so awful about manchester, that’s got you frowning like that tiny?” emily asked with a playful smile as she was sat opposite you on the team bus having been playing card with your mummy while you sat watching a frown plastered across your lips getting deeper and deeper as the bus made its way up the road.

“manchester is mean.” you said bluntly as a small chuckle came from your mummy who was sitting beside you as she took a sip of her water.

“you liked it there, when we lived there?” your mummy pointed out as you only hummed crossing your arms across your chest — well tried to. alessia trying to also figure out what and why you were in such a strop about going up to manchester for.

“you used to tell me all about your life in manchester on facetime, and how much you loved it” emily said as she recounted some of the memories of when her and less would facetime and you would babble about your days in manchester long before the american moved to north london.

“yep but that not home anymore, manchester is mean” you mumbled sliding down the chair as you huffed, a small look of realisation flashing across alessia’s face as to why you were in such a strop.

“oh lovie the fans have gotten over that now” alessia assured you as she side hugged you, you sighed not knowing whether to believe what your mummy was telling you or not.

“still” you grumbled as alessia shook her head playfully as emily grinned at your innocence as you went back to watched your show now that you were cuddled into the side of your mummy.

“she’s so dramatic-“

-

finally, the game had rolled around after it feeling like you’d been in manchester for days not when really it had been less than twenty four hours. walking by your mummy’s side as she wheeled her small suitcase in, a backpack most likely filled with more of your things in than your mums which hung from her shoulder.

people stood at the entrance, shouting and screaming the players which walked past as some shouted your name as you walked past with your mum, you giving the odd shy wave before walking into the stadium.

“lovie- where are you- oh” alessia called out as she felt you let go of her hand, your small steps could be heard as you rushed over and jumped into the arms of a very familiar face, one you’d just said goodbye to a couple a days ago from england camp.

“tooney!” you cheered as she spun you around a big grin on the united players’ face. “i’ve missed you, tiny” ella smiled as she stopped still, players walking past saying a small hi either to you or tooney.

you furrowed your brow, “i seen you two days ago though?” you said as a small giggled left ella’s lips as she realised you hadn’t understood what she meant.

“am i not allowed to miss my favourite russo!” ella quipped back as she tickled under your chin making you squirm in her arms as alessia caught up with you, stopping mere metres away from ella as she side hugged the manchester united player.

“i missed you too auntie ella” you admitted lowly, as you hugged her tight. ella rubbing your back as a soft smile came across alessia’s face. yours and ella’s bond being one of the best kind, so cute and pure and alessia loved it.

“and anyways missus i thought you said you would wear your united shirt for me today!” ella gasped as she replayed the conversation the two got of you had on england camp, you telling ella the next game you watched her play in you would wear your old united shirt — which would definitely and most likely be too small for you.

you shook your head with a firm hum, “north london forever!” you grinned tapping the badge which was displayed on your chest. it drawing a few chuckles from both alessia and ella.

“you’ve changed your tune!” ella joked but she knew since the move how much you’d fell in love with arsenal and north london. but manchester would always be somewhere in your heart.

“well i suppose it’s better than being a blue” ella shrugged as she laughed at her own little joke before saying her goodbyes, kissing your forehead and letting you back down on the ground. yours waving goodbye to ella as she promised she’d find you after the game.

you holding back onto your mummy’s hand as she led you into the away changing room. in your mind this was the worst part of game day, the waiting around for the game to actually start as you always wondered why they needed two whole hours to get ready.

but nevertheless you waited making your own entertainment along the way, walking with steph and kyra as they went out onto the pitch. your mummy opting on going to get treatment just before the warm ups.

joking on a little as you ran up and down the touchline as they warmed up before having a very serious conversation with fred the red as he danced around and waved at the fans in the stands. the mascot you used to love.

but then it was time for the team to go back into the changing room as you scared beth as she came rushing off the pitch, small giggles coming from you as she chased you back inside.

as you sat back down on the bench, coming down from your high energy state. catching your breath from all the running around you’d done, you’d think you had just ran around for ninety minutes.

your mummy was fixing up her hair as you watched fondly, “mummy?”

“yes baby” your mummy cooed as she tied the bobble into her hair before kneeling down so she could hear you among the loud chatter and the music which was booming through the speakers.

“what happen if you score today?” you asked as it had been on your mind the past day or two, you wondering if the goal would count towards united or arsenal. your brain getting a little confused.

alessia’s brow furrowed, not quite getting what you meant, “what do you mean by that lovie?”

“well cause you played for united will it be their goal” you asked your tone laced with confusion as alessia’s brow softened as she realised what you now meant.

your mummy firmly shaking her head as her hands rested on your knees as you sat on the bench, “no lovie, it’ll be an arsenal goal cause that’s who i play for now” your mummy explained as she pointed to the jersey you were wearing as you nodded along as your mummy continued her explanation using her when she scored for england as an example.

you hummed in realisation as you brain now made sense of your doubts, “will you score today?” you asked as alessia laughed a little shrugging her shoulders — she wishes she could see the future.

“i’ll try score just for you, prove the booing wrong ay?” your mummy grinned as she tapped your knees feeling you tense up at the mention of the booing knowing italy you experience some pretty big feelings the last time. but your mummy was quick to reassure you before placing a soft kiss on the top of your head as she stood back up.

the exciting part of the day had finally arrived where you could watch the match, one you’d been excited for the build up but not the actually match itself. this time though you found yourself sat with kyra instead of leah, that and the fact leah was back on the pitch playing again.

sat in the dugout, a blanket over your legs which kyra had given you as your arsenal jersey was now covered with a hoodie your mummy had insisted on you wearing much to your complaints that you didn’t need it.

but as always your mummy won the argument as the moment you came from the warmth of the changing room you were complaining that you were cold, so your mummy quickly got your hoodie placing over your head and sliding it down so it sat perfectly in you.

so instead you had to settle for the arsenal scarf around your neck all with white and red letters of arsenal plastered across it as you way of showing your support for the team.

the first half you can’t lie was a little boring, no goals being scored but your mummy did come close a few times. after he first attempt in the 12’ minute you tapped kyra on the shoulder, the australian peeling her eyes away from the pitch to listen to you.

“my mummy said she was gonna score to today!” you proudly smiled as kyra nodded along agreeing, “well it is looking likely tiny!”

but it was very likely to happen in the first half as it ended still with neither team scoring so when the team finally came out for the second half, you were a little more eager to watch. hoping the goal from your mummy was coming.

so in the 63’ minute when mariona played the lovely pass to emily who crossed it to alessia, you were on your feet in seconds when you seen the net bulge. your mummy didn’t celebrate with her aeroplane arms like she usually did instead a small yes slipped from her lips as she pointed over to the dugout, mainly to you before all the girls engulfed her in a group hug and head taps.

that was your mummy’s last action of the day as she was subbed off shortly after, kyra having been subbed on in place with the other girls who came off.

alessia getting her jacket and wrapping it around her arms to shield herself from the manchester coldness as she made a beeline to sit next to you in the dugout. you launching yourself to her the moment she was close.

your mummy wrapping you in a hug as you explained your view of the goal and your excitement fueling through your small limbs as your arms flung around explains it.

“t’was all for you, lovie” your mummy whispered against your hair as she placed a gentle kiss on-top of your head you hugged your mum tightly as your eyes wondered back to the pitch.

the game unfortunately after alessia’s goal wasn’t over, far from it actually, manchester united threw on some subs and were looking likely to score.

alessia glanced up to the clock as you sat on her lap, watching intently. your fingers in your mouth something you did when you were concentrating on something.

rachel williams had made a breakthrough as leah ran to catch her except, leah got a shove in the shoulder knocking her to the ground and quite literally off the pitch as she rolled and hit the dugout.

you not seeing the initial shove as you were too busy looking at the fans who were shouting and yelling their chants you trying to decipher the words. so when you seen leah on the ground, lying on her back you let out a loud laugh.

“le!” you called out as leah stood to her feet waving at you as she mouthed to alessia that she was okay, “your supposed to be playing football not having a nap!” you yelled after as leah was looking over her shoulder walking gingerly back to the sideline as the medical team crowded around her.

a small gasp coming from your mummy as she bumped your shoulder giving you a stern look for your cheekiness as leah just laughs at your cheeky comment running back onto the pitch.

the match ended not in the way you wanted which kind of damped the mood but nevertheless, you were able to run about a little as your mummy was off signing things.

“le!” you called out as you ran after leah as she was walking away from some fans, your mummy watching you intently as she spoke to some fans, busy signing shirts, books and phone cases.

“you okay, tiny?” leah smiled as you ran into her arms, leah throwing you up in the air and catching you making you squeal as she did, falling back into her arms giggling.

“are you okay after your fall?” you asked, your mummy after you cheeky comment filled you in on the fact leah hadn’t gone for a nap mid game like you thought but instead had been nudged over, you feeling slightly bad about your comment.

“course i am, just a little graze!” leah waved it off as you let out a sigh of relief, “next time i’ll just have to stay on my two feet” leah joked as you nodded.

“cause you spend too much time with mummy as she really clumsy!” you so innocently said as a laugh rippled through leah, you not being in the slightest bit wrong. as alessia could trip over thin air and still land on the floor.

“is that so?” leah questioned as you nodded proudly, totally forgetting that you yourself was also born with two left feet as like your mum you also found your self tripping over thin air.

leah just laughed at your response as she watched ella walk over to the two of you.

“leah do you think i can convince less to let tiny stay with me, we have a movie night in the books which is planned for tonight sharpish!” ella smiled as you nodded along, this being something you had planned during england camp but had yet been able to convince your mummy of — as a result of alessia not being any of the wiser of said movie night.

“um i dunno know you’ll have the ask the boss lady herself” leah shrugged as you wriggled out of her hold, tugging on ella’s hand as she tried to pull you in the opposite direction of your mummy.

“c’mon tooney, my mummy’s this way!”

[epicbuddieficrecs]

Weekly Recap | September 9th-15th 2024

10 days until season 8!!! 👀

I'm gonna try and put together a rec of my favourite post-S6 and 7 fics before S8 starts!

If you know anyone who isn't tagged, please let me know and/or tag them in the comments!

Complete

everything comes out teenage by Wildehack (tyleet)/ @wildehacked (First Date | 1K | Mature): “Hey,” Buck says carefully, remembering how he felt when it was his turn on Eddie’s side of the table. “You doing okay over there?”

Loving You is Easy by actualalligator/ @actualalligator (Post-S7 Spec, Getting Together | 1K | General): Nothing good happens after 9:30, Abuela always said. Sometimes good things do happen after 9:30. Sometimes they're important too.

how to slay a dragon by 42hrb/ @exhuastedpigeon (Post-S7 Spec, Getting Together | 2K | General): Buck didn't know what to expect when he walked into the Han house. He definitely hadn’t expected to see Eddie sitting on the floor with Jee in front of him carefully french braiding her hair. He also hadn’t expected Eddie to be wearing a pink sparkly tiara. He definitely hadn’t expected Eddie to smile up at Buck when he saw him with soft eyes, eyes that didn’t feel like looking into an ocean of sadness, and carefully tie the end of one of the braids he was working on with a little bow. If Buck had ovaries he was pretty sure they would be exploding. 

Here's the Punchline... by misterbabygirl (Getting Together, Post-S4 | 2K | Teen): OR: The 118 find out about the will and start a running joke about Eddie being careful otherwise Buck would end up as a single parent. Eddie tries to make the same joke.

be someone by bucksclipboard/ @excuseme-greentea (Post-S7, Pre-Buddie | 2K | Teen): A call leaves Buck wondering if he’ll ever be a parent. Not just a donor, a dad. A great dad. Chimney tries to convince him of his qualities – and Eddie has a hard time staying quiet. or: eddie thinks buck already is someone to chris

encounters closer and closer by lecornergirl/ @clusterbuck (Outsider POV, Media Fic | 2,5K | Teen): OR: a group of friends asks the question what's the deal with buckley and diaz?

the clarification of equilibrium by Maira/ @carrierofthepaperclips (Post-S7 Spec, Jealous Eddie, Getting Together | 3K | Teen): “He leaned?” “Exactly. You know,” Eddie waves a hand. “Leaning.” Buck blinks. He knows he isn’t that drunk, but it honestly feels like he is. “You keep saying that word. I don’t think it means what-” “Leaning, Buck!” Eddie is clearly frustrated that Buck isn’t getting what he’s trying to say, but for two people who are usually on the same wavelength, who are often (lovingly) mocked for their ability to communicate without saying a word, Buck is hopelessly lost as far as this conversation goes. * ... or, the one where Eddie gets jealous about a conversation, and attempts to explain how body positioning works.

every dead-end street led you straight to me by ameliahart (Post-S7 Spec | 5K | Teen): Or, five times one of their exes mistakenly assumed Eddie was Buck's new boyfriend, and one time the ex was right.

i don't believe in god, but i believe that you're my savior by justhockey (Post-S7 Spec, Eddie Sexuality Crisis | 6K | Teen): The first thing that happens is a Catholic church in the too-hot Texan heat; Eddie’s hands are damp with sweat and he wipes his palms across his best trousers. His Abuelo smacks the back of his hand to get him to stop and Eddie balls them into tiny fists, slips them beneath his thighs so he isn’t tempted to fidget. So he listens. Listens to the priest, and his droning, and his fire and brimstone, burning-in-hell, shameshameshame talk. The first thing that happens is Eddie is born. Born wrong, born twisted, born sinning. He spends the rest of his life trying to make up for it.

I'll Be Your Safe Haven by eightpackdiaz (Safe Haven Baby Box, Alternate Canon | 6K | Teen): A Safe Haven Baby Box is installed at the Station 118 firehouse. Buck's really good with the surrendered babies.

doesn't take a scientist to understand what's going on by Chash / @ponyregrets (Post-S7 Spec, Getting Together | 8K | Teen): Eddie is already struggling with having realized he has a thing for Buck and trying to figure out what to do about said thing when Buck finds out he needs glasses. Which means that Eddie also finds out he's really into Buck in glasses. He would prefer to not know this.

🔥 One Hundred Miles an Hour In My Head by Chash/ @ponyregrets (Post-S7 Spec, Jealous Buck | 8K | Teen): Buck sort of assumed that, at some point, he'd evolve out of being needy and insecure. And, to be fair, in some ways, he probably has. He feels a lot more confident existing in the world than he did when he was a kid. He's sure he has the right job, and he mostly thinks that if he got hurt badly enough that he couldn't be a firefighter anymore, he'd figure out another thing to do and another way to help people instead of spiraling like he did after his leg got crushed. He knows who he is, and he knows that he's valued for it. Sometimes, he even thinks stuff might someday be good with his parents. And then there's Eddie.

karma is a cat (purring in my lap) by cuddlyobrien (Post-S7 Spec, Eddie Sexuality Crisis | 8K | Teen): Eddie finds a kitten, realizes he’s gay, falls in love with Buck and apologizes to Chris. Not in that order but kind of?

all of the girls you loved before by Wildehack (tyleet)/ @wildehacked (Post-S7, Getting Together | 9K | Explicit): Buck finishes the math on his fingers, and holds up one spread-wide hand. “Uh,” he says. “I mean, I’ve got a top five?” Everyone groans. - Buck's top five sexual experiences, plus one mediocre handjob.

Please (I've Been On My Knees) by Bookworm0303/ @insertlovelyperson (Canon, S2-S7, Post S7 Spec | 10K | Teen): The five times Buck and Eddie confide in one another about their failed relationships, and the one time they don’t have to.

Clammed Up by Daisies_and_Briars/ @cal-daisies-and-briars (Murder/Mystery | 11K | Teen): Captain Gerrard dies suspiciously at a murder mystery party held at Tommy Kinard's condo, with most of the 118 present. As the case unfolds, Athena finds she no longer knows who among her friends she can trust.

🔥 Next Best by Nejinee/ @nejineeee (A/B/O AU | 20K | Explicit): Eddie had been very clear that they needed to keep their relationship stuff off the job. That meant no make-outs, no groping of asses, and no sexy stuff. Buck was fine with that. (Part 2 of Second Best Series)

🔥 fuck it if i can't have us (series) by Wildehack (tyleet)/ @wildehacked (Post-S7 Spec | 2/? | 35K | Explicit)

i love you but i need another year (Post-S7, Eddie Sexuality Crisis | 14K | Explicit): If Eddie were still a practicing Catholic, this is the kind of shit he’d go to confession about. — Eddie watches porn, experiences revelation, replies to a lot of text messages. down bad, crying at the gym (Post S7, BuckTommy Break-Up | 21K | Explicit): On Tuesday Buck tells Tommy he loves him. On Thursday he’s giving his best friend a ride to the airport, and they’re pulling up to LAX, and Eddie says “I love you.” — Buck cooks a lot of food, thinks about love, takes pictures of local wildlife.

WIP

how come everybody's dancing but you? by showedupatyourparty (Post-S7 Spec, Eddie Sexuality Crisis | 1/4 | 7K | Mature): Buck feels guilty. Everyone he loves is going through something painful, difficult, or unexpected right now. And Buck is just…bisexual. It’s great that he’s figured it out, and it’s great that everyone has been so supportive, and Tommy is—Tommy is fine. The sex is good, at least. Consistent. When Buck gets a call from Eddie’s phone late on a Tuesday night in June, it’s cause for concern. * Buck unpacks his own feelings about his recently-discovered bisexuality. Eddie gets adopted by drag queens. They're both just trying their best to be happy.

Innocence died screaming, honey, ask me I should know by JJK/ @trenchcoatsandtimetravel (Demon Buck, Canon Divergent | 10/? | 18K | Teen): Buck is a demon with the power to help with pregnancy, childbirth, and infant health. When the Buckleys make a deal asking for someone to help 'save their baby', Buck leaps at the chance as it will give him what he's always wanted: a life on earth. But demon deals are tricky and neither of them gets quite what they're after. This is Buck's journey as he navigates growing up on earth and remembering how to help those in need.

[atsumutu]

The run up to the season is tough, taxing both physically and mentally on Atsumu. The setter had been out of the house before you had woken up, the tepid cup of tea placed by your bedside table letting you know that you had only missed him by 10 minutes or so. It was now late afternoon and he was finally home.

“Long day?” You walk towards Atsumu who slumps onto the sofa. Groaning loudly, he sprawls across the furniture, eyes shutting blissfully. His gym bag was still strapped to his shoulder, half on the couch, half spilling onto the floor making you smile fondly.

“Yeah, something like that.” he mumbles. Atsumu peeks an eye open to ask you “How was your day, baby?”

“A slow one,” you reply honestly, recalling your mundane day. “Had to pick a few things up from the grocery store so I made your favourite.”

The blond sits up at the mention of food. “You’re an angel you know that?”

“So I’ve been told.” you muse. 

“Yeah?” You’ve finally made it close enough for the setter to reach you and he wastes no time in wrapping his arms around you, guiding you onto his lap. You happily take a seat, resting your arms around his shoulders so you can run your fingers through his hair. “Hope it wasn't some rando at the grocery store.” he growls playfully, nipping at your neck.

You squirm in his arms, giggling as his nibbles turn into kisses, tickling the skin up your neck and across your jaw. Never one to miss an opportunity to tease, Atsumu purposely skips past your lips, making you pull back with a frown.

The setter grins boyishly, swiping a thumb over your pout. “Sorry sorry.” he chuckles before landing a wet kiss on you, laughing even harder when you scrunch your nose and peel away from him.

“Go put your stuff away. I’m gonna check on dinner.”

“Dinner? When I’ve got a whole five course meal in my arms?”

You can’t help but snort at his lame joke. “Just a few minutes ago you were drooling at the mention of food.”

“Yeah, well now I’m hungry for something else.” he insists, palms smoothing along your waist.

Rolling your eyes, you rest your palms on his chest, creating a safe distance between you two. “Pack it up, Romeo. Dinner in 10 minutes.” you warn, giving him a peck before slipping away from his hold.

Atsumu sighs contently, a lazy grin plastered across his face as he leans back onto the sofa, arms crossed behind his head. “I love it when you boss me around.”

“10 minutes. If you’re not there I'm packing it up and taking it to ‘Samu tomorrow.”

Atsumu scrambles.

[fushitoru]

Hii lovely! I'm a very anxious person, so I'm so sorry if I come across as awkward in any way shape or form, I tend to be more of a lurker, but I'm trying to get better at interacting!!

First of all, your Bridgerton fic is??? SO?? GOOD??? The way you portray all the characters, the language, the settings, everything is just absolutely chef's kiss!! When I watched season 3 this spring I was sat there thinking about how good Gojo would be in the setting, so cue my excitement once I found your fic lmfaoo

ALSO?! Spider-man Gojo?? Academic rivals to lovers??? I would literally give my soul for that. Spidey is my all time favourite superhero and it's one of my favourite tropes sob SUPER excited to read it once you get it done!! <3

You write so so so beautifully and you (among a few others) make me actually feel like getting my finger out of my arse and write myself LOL But until then, have some art of Bridgerton Gojo? Just a sketch for now, and I couldn't for the life of me decide on hairstyle, so uhh, have both I guess??(+ two slightly different expressions lmfao)

I also just want to mention, please make sure to not pressure yourself too hard with writing and take everything at your own pace!! I (among others, I'm sure) would wait for however long you need to finish up these lovely works of yours!!

(I'm so sorry if these ever get super long, I'm a big time yapper, which is ironic for an anxious person loool)

Muuuch love<33

OMG HI BB!!!!! thank you so much for interacting with me, even though it's out of your comfort zone :') plsplspls don't worry about being too awkward or anything, i literally was smiling like an idiot while reading ur ask!!

and AHHH thank you so much!!! it's so funny that you say you thought that while watching season three because it was actually that season that made me want to write this series. glad to be of service <3

AHHH i'm also really excited to post it. i'm not done but im sooooo excited to finish it and have really been enjoying the process because spiderman is also one of my fav troupes + i feel like i've been able to write it in my OWN voice. super super excited for that <3

OH MY GOD. YOU DRAW SO BEAUTIFULLY??? I LOVE THIS SKETCH. i honestly really like both hairstyles and expressions you drew them so well 😭 i definitely imagine his hairstyle as the one on the left while im writing. everything from the outfit to pose you drew SO WELL (im in LOVE with the jacket as well as the shoes) he looks so BOUGIE and so TALL im literally going to climb him. and im ngl the expression the right seems so much like his sassy self, especially when he's making fun of someone while his expression on the left i interpret as something a bit more unfiltered, when he's more genuine. god you are so talented, literally captured the vibes.

AND ILY!!! no matter how long these asks are i will read them pls bring forth the yap. literally squealed while reading this, ilysm. thank you SO MUCH for drawing bridgerton!gojo im so honored 🫶🫶🫶

[usmsgutterson]

Nothing Feels As Good As Going Home - S.R

Okay!! My ao3 did see this one first (I had edited it late last night and honestly?? I was too lazy to post it on both platforms because I edited it on ao3 and was too lazy to copy, paste, and then write an authors note lmao) and I'm pretty unsure about this as a whole because I'm only eight seasons in and I haven't written for Spencer before, but I'm conquering my fears tonight.

Despite my bio (which will be changed at least fifteen minutes after this has been posted--I have two accounts and I want to do some maintenance for this one because it needs a little TLC I fear) my requests are currently open!! They're wide open to Spencer Reid, Emily Prentiss, Derek Morgan and Aaron Hotchner, even though I'd also likely be willing to write for another criminal minds character if you asked.

Fic type - this one is tooth rotting fluff because I couldn't resist

Warnings - spencer might be a tad ooc because this is the first time I've written for him. This is also set either in or around season eight as, when I wrote this, I was about halfway through that season and I'm currently close to 2/3rds of the way done with it. Cats are also in this one, if you aren't a cat person.

Spencer used to hate going home. He felt like he’d never really know what would be going on the minute he opened the front door and stepped inside, and after his father left, that fear intensified bit by bit.  

After his father left, he never knew what it would mean, going home, so he stalled. He’d go to a local park and sit on a bench and read a few books in an hour, maybe two, in order to escape the fear he felt at the idea of going home when he had no idea what would be going on in that house, whether his mother was okay that day or not.  

When he went to college and was living in the dorms, he hated going back because it meant more isolation. More loneliness, more of the same, really. Only his books to keep him company and just about nobody else, unless Ethan called, which he usually did two or three times a week. Ethans calls were one of the only things that really helped him when he wasn’t looking after his mother whenever he was on break, typically around the winter and during the summer.  

After having his mother institutionalised, he feared going home because it meant that she wasn’t there, and the guilt that came with having her taken into a facility when it wasn’t something she wanted weighed down on him very heavily.  

In those last two years pre-FBI, he hated going home because it meant more of the same. More loneliness, more of the same nature documentaries he'd seen a thousand times before if he wasn't putting on the news, and more books that he’d already read several times before haunting him from wherever it was that they sat on his bookshelves, which had been scattered throughout most rooms in his apartment.  

But he joined the FBI at twenty-one and managed to meet you somewhere along that year, found out that you’d just started working with the Marshals and had lived only twenty five minutes out from Arlington, which put you about fifteen from Quantico as a whole, and he started hating going home a lot less after you guys had been together for four months.  

After four months of dates and getting to know each other, getting home usually meant going on another date or Spencer finally getting the opportunity to call you and stay on the phone for longer than fifteen minutes.  

Spencer is very careful about your relationship, though—very secretive, though he doesn’t really mean to be, to avoid teasing from Derek and, four or so years down the line, Emily and JJ, though even Rossi joined in on occasion.

It’s not until he’s on the jet, Alex sitting to his left, JJ across him and Derek diagonally so, that he has to spill the beans.  

He gets a text from you and it’s the way that he smiles that gives it away.  

Hey, Spence! I cleaned up the house a little bit and went to grab your favourite coffee beans from the bodega we both like. Also: meet Megatron. Her name deceives.  

Attached is a photo of a kitten that can’t be more than four or five weeks old, dark brown everywhere except for her paws and chin, which are white.  

“Who’s the lucky one, boy genius?” Derek asks.  

“Huh?” Spencer looks up, eyes widened slightly. “It’s nobody.”  

JJs head tilts. “You wouldn’t smile like that for a nobody,” she says. “Who is it?”  

“Is it the one with the dark blue Prius--” Alex starts before she pauses, realizing where she's fumbled. That gets Rossi and Hotch interested, both of whom come to sit in the seats across from the four.  

Alex is the only one on the team who knows about you apart from Penelope, which is pure happenstance—his car had broken down once when both she and Spencer had worked a late night, and so you’d offered to pick him up from work so that the two of you could go back to the house you shared and indulge in a shark documentary and some pizza.  

“It is,” Spencer nods. “Their name is Y/N.”  

“How long have you had a Y/N?” Derek asks.  

“Since I was twenty-one,” Spencer admits. “About a decade now.”  

“You kept a romantic partner hidden for a decade ?” Derek asks. “How? Does--”  

“Penelope knows about them because they’re in the group she goes to on Tuesdays,” Spencer says. “The one for knitting and crocheting—Y/N does the latter, mostly, but they did knit the cardigan I was wearing last week.”  

“And how did Penelope figure out about the thing you two have had going on?”  

“It’s more than a thing , Derek,” Alex says. “If it’s been going for a decade, it’s more than a thing.”  

“We’d gotten done with a case early, and Penelope had left pretty much as soon as we were on the jet so that she could make it to the aforementioned group. I asked them where they were and picked them up with their favourite tea as a surprise. Penelope saw me there, watched us hug, and just about lost her mind. Have I satisfied your thirst for knowledge yet?”  

He turns to Alex briefly, nods a bit to answer her earlier remark. “I just proposed last weekend, so you’re right. It’s more than just a thing I would say.”  

Derek and JJs eyes widen until their shock is clearly conveyed, and Spencer laughs.  

“You have a fiancee, and you just—didn't think to fucking tell anybody?” Derek laughs. “Were you ever going to tell us?”  

“I was—we've been busy with work, and it didn’t occur to me.”  

“Okay,” JJ nods like she believes it, and that’s good enough for Spencer because he’s telling the truth anyway. “What was the text about?”  

Spencer shrugs, paraphrases.  

“They wrote me to tell me they’d cleaned up the house and picked up a stray, I think,” Spencer answers. “I mean, the stray part wasn't explicitly stated but—the kitten doesn’t look more than four weeks old, so the assumption was immediate, but they know I can’t say no to cats. They’ve been hoping that they’d find a stray while I was on a case since we first moved into a condo together. We bought our house six months ago now, and they’ve joked, every single time before I’ve left for a case, that it’s the perfect time.”  

“What’d they name it?” Rossi asks. “Assuming they didn’t ask for your input. I wouldn’t--I’d have a kitten named Einstein who could never live up to that.”  

Spencer can’t help the loving laugh that bubbles up from his throat as his fingers absently locate the chain around his neck, with an engagement ring of his own weighing the chain down just slightly so that the ring sits comfortably at the middle of his collarbone.  

“They named her Megatron,” he says nonchalantly. “Smallest cat I’ve ever seen, and still, she’s got big shoes to fill. Massive ones, actually.”  

That is enough to get Hotch to crack a smile. For a second, Spencer feels like he’s winning even though a game isn’t even being played.  

“Okay, so—how did you do it?” JJ asks. “I mean—ten years and a recent engagement? With only two people on our team discovering through that entire time? How?”  

“Penelope figured it out three years in,” Spencer answers. “Alex only figured it out recently, which is kind of surprising because I’ve never exactly hidden their existence. I just haven't talked about them because nobody has ever really asked but—I don’t know, either. We kept it low key because we both work law enforcement and it was just easier that way for the first little while, and then we both decided we liked the quiet so we kept things that way.”  

“They work in law enforcement?” Derek asks, his eyes narrowing. “Are they FBI?”  

“They’re a Deputy US Marshal, actually,” Spencer corrects. “They work in the Virginia office, which is 45 minutes outside of Quantico, up in Arlington. It’s why I have a twenty five minute commute—we both like our jobs a lot, and twenty-five minutes for me one way is only eighteen minutes for them the other, but I like driving so I don’t mind. They’re in talks for a promotion right now, and they were meant to hear about it today but so far their texts haven’t indicated anything about that.”  

It’s the most Spencer has told anyone except his mother about you since you’d gotten together, and while you both normally like to keep things quiet, bragging about you to the people he routinely trusts with his life is a very nice feeling.  

“US Marshal?” JJ asks. “They pretty commonly hire ex-military,” she says.  

“They’ve never been anywhere near the military,” Spencer laughs. “They did a two year degree at a community college, went to Glynco for training, and were employed by the US Marshals by twenty-one, around the same time I joined the FBI. We met each other at a coffee shop when they were off of work and their local one was closed, so our meeting was kismet.”  

Spencers phone buzzes again, and he ignores it that time. 

Alex grins at him, while Derek tuts and JJs eyes go to his phone as it buzzes once, then twice more, the fourth buzz coming four and a half seconds after the first, second, and third.  

“Check it,” she urges. “The jet is going to land in fifteen minutes, Spencer, so if it’s good news, you might as well.”  

SPENCER!! 

I have really really REALLY good news 

Please tell me your jet is landing soon or the very minute it’s landed call me please because you work twenty five minutes away and that means I can call and order from Antonios and by the time you’re home, you’ll only have to wait five minutes for pizza.  

Also, Megatrons full name is Megatron Ichabod Reid. Just so you know. I love you so much you stupid smart handsome tall man.  

Spencer doesn’t even try to fight his laugh as he reads.

“Good news?” Derek asks.  

“I think they got promoted, but I won’t know for sure til I’m home,” Spencer answers. “Also--Megatrons full name is apparently Megatron Ichabod Reid—their texts read like they’re hyper.”  

“I’d be pretty hyper if I got news of a promotion,” Rossi says. “Let us know if they did, though, kid. I’m hosting a dinner to celebrate your engagement regardless, but if they got promoted, it’s another thing to celebrate on the roster, and all the more of an excuse to meet the person you’ve kept hidden from the likes of us for a decade.”  

“You guys ordering Antonios?” Alex asks. “You mentioned getting Antonios for dinner the day after I saw you two together. I’m assuming it’s their favourite pizza spot—you don’t really seem like the pizza type. More like a pasta guy.”  

“We both love it,” Spencer answers. “There’s no pizza like Antonios—not where we live, anyway. It’s the middle ground between Quantico and Arlington, so there’s not a whole lot to do unless you drive either way.”  

“Antonios makes a good pizza,” Rossi nods.  

“Their pasta is better,” Hotch interjects. Spencer shakes his head, tries to go back to the book that’s sitting on the table in front of him but fails miserably, waits for the fifteen minutes til the jet lands to be done whilst the rest of the team talks amongst themselves.  

The second the jet lands, as he’s walking out of it, he dials your number and you pick up on the first ring.  

“Spencer Walter Reid, light of my life and giver of astoundingly lovely forehead kisses, please tell me you’ve landed,”  

Spencer laughs. “Just did,” he says. “The team knows about us now, by the way—I smiled when you texted and that lead to Derek questioning me, so there’s that. Also, if the good news is what I think it is, Rossi wants to hold a celebration dinner as an excuse to meet you. He fronted it with our engagement first, but I think he’s just shocked we’ve kept each other under wraps that long.”  

“You like Megatrons name?” You ask, giggling a bit, seemingly in spite of yourself. “I’m sorry, Spence—I'm hyper as hell, bouncing off the walls type. I’m going to open a bottle of wine, see if it calms me down a little. Get home as fast as you can, though! I miss your handsome face!”  

“Just gotta finish a file or two and then I’ll be home,” he says. “If you order the pizza now, I’ll only be like, five minutes late—the pizza won’t be scalding, like it usually is because of their ridiculously well-working warmer bags.”  

“I love you, Spence,” you say, tone turning a little serious. “Get home safe, please.”  

“I will,” Spencer nods. “You okay?”  

“Hyper but yearning,” you laugh. “I just miss you, ‘s all.”  

“I miss you too,” he says. “I’ll be home in forty minutes, tops. I promise.”  

The phone call ends, and he doesn’t miss the knowing smiles that are on Derek and Rossis faces. JJ is looking at him mildly confused as the tone of the conversation changed near it’s end, but he doesn’t want to explain, and so he chooses not to say anything.  

He goes back into the office, completes what remains of the files he has to work on, and after he submits the paperwork in to Hotch, he just about speed walks out of the office, toward the elevators.  

Derek is leaving at the same time as he is. “Goin’ home to Megatron and the singular person who’s managed to keep up with you for the past decade?” He asks teasingly as the doors close.    

“Yeah,” Spencer laughs. “I know you guys will tease me about it til the end of my time here, but—yeah. I get to go home to a stray cat the love of my life probably found in the parking lot of a Joanns, and the love of my life themself.”  

“I’m all done with my teasing, for now,” Derek says. “I’m just a little confused—why'd you keep them from us for this long?”  

“I don’t know,” Spencer admits. “When we’d first started dating, they’d just started out with the Marshals and they were scared having a partner in the FBI would get them special treatment, and then, when the stuff with Tobias Hankel happened and I got into Dialudid, I was scared that I’d make an enemy and then they’d find out about Y/N and use them to hurt me, and it just—we’re the quiet type, so we had reasons til we stopped needing them. I was going to tell you guys before we got engaged, but stuff has just kept happening so quickly in these past couple of years, and it’s kept slipping my mind.”  

Derek shrugs, but smiles understandingly. “I get it,” he says. “Lookin’ forward to that dinner Rossi is planning, though. I can’t wait to meet the singular person who probably would let you talk their ear off because they find you handsome or like your voice or something else that’s really sweet. You have a good night, Spence.”  

The elevator dings and the doors open, and the two leave separately. Spencer drives a little above the speed limit in the interest of getting home, which isn’t something he’d ever thought he’d do but is doing that night because it’s been a week since you’d last seen each other and he misses you like mad.  

When he inserts his key into the lock, unlocks the door and steps inside, he’s not filled with dread or fear or anxiety or loneliness or anything like that—instead, it feels like exactly what it’s supposed to.  

As he steps out of his shoes, hangs his bag on the coat rack and hears the sound of your laugh, he registers just how much the place he calls home feels like the word used to describe it.  

As he greets you with a hug and a few kisses to the forehead, it feels so much like home that it almost causes an ache in his chest. As you tell him about your promotion from Deputy to Chief Deputy and he hears Megatron the cat meow for the first time, happiness swells within him. Home, for the first time in his life, truly feels like a home. A place where he can unwind and be with those he truly loves, a place in which happiness is practically never-ending.  

Going home has never felt so good as going home to you, and Spencer is unsure anything will ever beat it.  

[blue-disco-lights]

✨ Weekly Tag Wednesday ✨

Thank you so much for tagging me - love this one! (i love them all actually) @jrooc

@stocious @michellemisfit @doshiart @mybrainismelted @mmmichyyy

@sgtmickeyslaughter @gallapiech @suzy-queued @spookygingerr @roryonic

Name and A03 handle: Julia, Blue_Disco_Lights

Current Location: my dining table - my work is hybrid, so this (suprisingly uncomfortable setup) is my desk twice a week.

Favourite picrew: I never really wore my space buns this high, maybe a bit lower… also the jewelry is a Chain Mickey homage obviously.

What's one thing you want in a picrew? I love a creative background and good sweater options. If left to my own devices, I’d be in a hoodie all the time, but it’s nice to spice things up!

Favourite thing you’ve created (or seen created) for the fandom? Hard to choose! it's a tie between some @galladrabbles and these @gallacrafts.

Why is it your favourite? I’ve been knitting since I was a kid but never really got beyond the scarf phase lol - and Season 1 Not-a-booty-call/“Whatever, see ya” Mickey wore that green scarf and I knew I had to recreate it. The t-shirt is me attempting to draw for the tomato theme and I just think it would be so funny if Ian actually wore this outside.

Did it come easily or was it hard to create? For the scarf, it was all about finding the right yarn and also that cute patch that just appeared out of nowhere at the craft store. Drawing is hard because i don't know how 😆

Last ao3 fic you commented on? It was either on Shame-proof written by @ms-moonlight-inn and @notherenewjersey or A Song Only You Can Hear by @suzy-queued - both so good!

Biggest WIP heartache you’ve ever experienced? I’m usually OK with WIPs taking a while, truly… but oh man, I’ll copy @jrooc's answer and say Things Beyond Mistake by grayola. What a STUNNING work and we’re left just aching for what happens for those two. My second is Elevator Music by gallavichsecurity- another beautifully written one that I hope will continue one day. 

Favourite trope or head cannon you like included in a fanfic? I love enemies to lovers, the slower the burn the better 🫠🔥 . I’ve yelled about loving road trip plots a lot, so I loved Highway of Hedonism  by @roryonic (w/ beautiful art by @gallapiech).

Least favourite? I’ve never gravitated to mpreg   

Secret or surprising kink or trope? Never even knew A/B/O was a thing until i got here - hello! Same goes for Whump - once it clicked that it was an actual genre, it was like oh wow, i think i’ve been into this my whole life lol.

Describe how you feel after you’ve created something new? Er, shocked quite honestly. When I see that I actually have multiple things posted on AO3 I do wonder who that person is??

Top hype man you have that always helps you get across the finish line: There are so many hype people i want to thank in my writing journey - your amazing comments & reblogs really made me feel like a writer! (which was a little shocking - so please know they went a long way 💕) @gallawitchxx @energievie @creepkinginc @jrooc @michellemisfit @palepinkgoat @gillyp @suzy-queued @ian-galagher @sweetbee78 @francesrose3 - and special shout out to @mybrainismelted for being an amazing sounding board and co-conspirator on Gallavich Summer Camp among other things!

It's been a bad day, you turn to the fandom and you _____? Hang out on Discord and Tumblr, and fall into one of the very many tabs I have open. Currently it’s You’ll Never See Us Again by @spoonfulstar - and omggggg.

If you're tagged in this post and haven't made one of these yet - this is your official invite!

tagging in @lingy910y @deedala @heymrspatel @atthedugouts @wehangout

@lupeloto @sisitrip @sandrashaine @shippergirl121fic @stocious

@jessij1997 @sickness-health-all-that-shit @thisdivorce @sam-loves-seb @samantitheos

@mickeyheartian @mickeym4ndy @callivich @transsexual-dandelions @nymacron

@rororowyourboat18 @transmurderbug @bawlbrayker @i-think-you-mean-reduction @gallavichsuperfan

@runawaybrainsc @too-schoolforcool @darlingian @thepupperino @celestialmickey

@crossmydna @spacerockwriting @catgrassplantdad @look-i-love-u @silvanshadow

[thequietesthing]

Bridgerton S3 Part 1 REVIEW!!!

Gentle readers, the time is finally upon us…

SPOILERS AHEAD - books and tv show 

Read at you your own risk

let’s go storyline by storyline

Polin: I LOVE THEM YOUR HONOR. they are great. the first episode you wanna smack CB up and down bc he behaves like an ass. Pen my darling i love you but some of your scenes give me second hand embarrassment and i had to watch them thru my fingers lol. I enjoyed the insertion of the character of Lord Debling; he was there, he did his part, which was basically making Colin more evidently jealous. In the books there is no need for that because we follow the thought process of the characters, but in a visual adaptation they have no way to do that so they used the old fashioned jealousy trope, that never disappoints. Confession time, I’m really not a big fan of friends to lovers because a lot of times there is the risk of falling into a series of banalities, BUT in the series, like in the books, it was really really well done. I like how they showed the progressive obsession that Colin has with Penelope, (and I feel like the best is yet to come), because of one thing you can be sure is that that man is OBSESSED with his (future) wife. Scene in the carriage: NAILED IT. Personally I’m also really fond of the scene in the book when he follows her and finds out that she’s LW, which from the promo for the second part I assume will happen (yey!). ALSO THE MIRROR SCENE. I’M WAITING.

Moving on

Francesca: my beloved. Not only do we share a name, but also a core deep awkwardness and the inability to be at the center of attention for more than two minutes straight; not to mention a deep appreciation for silence. I’M LOVING her storyline, I think it has great potential, and we’re finally discovering something more of the mysterious Bridgerton. The way I SCREAMED when John presented himself at Bridgerton House!!!! He is also a sweetheart and they are absolutely lovely together (this characterisation is needed as it will serve as a counterbalance for Michael later). Also Hannah Dodd is just the sweetest tootie-patootie and has such an angel face (which makes me really eager to see her in her season, IYKYK). Idk if you can tell that her book is my favourite lol.

Eloise: my girl, I cannot blame you. Like, let’s be honest, when a friend keeps something from you, especially of such magnitude, you can’t help of being a bit mad. I do think that she still has a great love for Penelope and it shows during these first four episodes. Also, only Eloise can make Cressida Cowper nice apparently. I think it’s going to be very interesting in the second part see her trying to protect her brother from Pen’s secret, but I do believe that in the promo that they showed us there are mostly scenes from episode 5 and 6. She has embraced the mentality if you can’t beat ‘em join ‘em, which makes her less “contrary” to society but she still has her quirkiness and wit that distinguishes from the rest.

Kanthony: they are happy, they are in love and they are enjoying their marital bed, and honestly who can blame them?! I love that they are happy and that they are showing us them being happy. I feel that is something that lacked with Daphne and the Duke because of actors unavailability, but I’m happy that both Johnny and Simone decided to continue. Especially Johnny because I have to say I’m a sucker for Anthony as “father-figure” for the youngest siblings, so I’m hoping for a scene with Frannie/Eloise/Gregory/Hyacinth and Anthony, even in future seasons.

Benedict/Violet: I really think that the next season will be Benedict season, and I will elaborate later why, because my man here needs a change of scenery. 3 seasons, every single time the same freaking storyline for my beautiful Benny that is a precious soul and could do so much more than to shag the first person that comes across his path. Violet is really sweet. She worries for her children a lot, like it’s normal for any mother but she’s learning, with a trial-error approach, how to let a bit go. I’m not entirely convinced of this Marcus guy. I think that Lady Danbury needs to sit Violet down and come clean of why she and her brother are estranged because she (being me) needs to know. 

Mondrich family: they are so cute, but I feel (and hope) that we will be able to close their story this season because it’s starting to feel a bit dragged on.

All in all, the first part of S3 gets 4,5/5⭐️

Now, my predictions: like I said before I do think that the next season will be Benedict turn, and not Francesca or Eloise, for the following reasons

1.They don’t know what to do with the poor guy anymore, every season a different person but his story arc feels a bit incomplete. They did something last season with the whole art school debacle but we are mostly back to square one.

2.Eloise has not given any indication that she has started writing to Mr.Philip. I think she will start at the end of this season or beginning of the next one.

3.Since we don’t have anymore debutantes for a while, I think next season will begin with Francesca and John’s wedding, and as a secondary storyline they will start to show more of their relationship + they will introduce Michael and all their dynamics. 

4.If they continue, I believe Eloise will have the fifth season , with her running away after Benedict (her favourite brother) gets married. 

ALSO, and this is more a personal curiosity, I wonder what they will do with LW. Technically, in the books Penelope is discovered and LW dies out; in fact in E/F/H/G we don’t have any LW at the beginning of the chapters but extrapolates of letters from the main character to other characters. It’s interesting I think because, if they do decide to cut her out completely, it will change the format of the series quite a bit as it has become such a core part of how the show is perceived by the audience. Which leads me to a reflection on how they decided to promote/present the show. If Benedict is actually next, I think it will be a bit of a transitional season. Let me explain myself; I don’t think that the queen (and the court in general) will have a big role like she’s been having for the past seasons because the next Bridgerton debutante will be Hyacinth, which is quite a few seasons away. We won’t have anymore LW (technically) and also the stages set in the books, especially for E, but also for F partially, takes place far way from London. If they actually manage to get to H/G seasons (which I hope because I want to see Garrett and Lucy), they will bring back the entire London setting. OBVIOUSLY ASSUMING THAT THEY FOLLOW WHAT IS WRITTEN IN THE BOOKs AND DON'T DECIDE TO SWITCH IT UP AND MAKE EVERYTHING HAPPEN IN LONDON (honestly, I hope not)

All this to say that I think that they split this season for two reasons: one of purely economical nature; being the fact that they have been absent from the screens for very long and in order to keep the people talking about the series more (and for longer) and to regain all the money spent, is very strategic to split it in half, keeping engagement high for all the time before/in between/after. The second reason I think is of narrative choices, if we assume that I’m right and Benedict is next, for the reasons I told you before. They want to show a bit of a detachment between the Bridgerton we have known until know and the one that will come later.

Ok I’m done. Gosh, how I ramble.

I have a sixth sense that I need to add this, just to be sure: these are my opinions, feel free not to share them just please be nice if you want to manifest your disagreement.

[batsplat]

do you have any favorite tennis matches? what's your favorite player and rivalry if you have one?

(note, I will be leaving both agassi + sampras out of this post as they have already been discussed in a fair bit of detail on this blog, though I might at some point make a post specifically about their matches. obviously they'd be pretty high up in all three categories with regards to favourite matches, players, and rivalries)

I have a lot of favourite tennis matches!! I'll throw a few of them under the cut, but honestly give me half a chance and I'll go on forever. my all time favourite tennis match is the 2003 us open semifinal between justine henin and jennifer capriati. it is available in full on youtube and I think you should watch it even if you have only the slightest interest in tennis. this is a match you need to experience for yourself and I will not spoil the result, but it features basically everything you could ask for:

very high stakes, both in terms of being a slam semi and for both players involved. it's an interesting stretch of henin's career, plenty of controversies that season and the potential for a rematch with countrywoman clijsters in the final. capriati during her noughties career revival had FINALLY managed to overcome her issues in late stages of slams and had won three of them... but her home slam at the us open was the one she wanted to win most of all. a history of semifinal choking she was attempting to conquer in front of her home crowd - fighting a woman six years her junior who had already tasted slam success that year

two very different personalities, the cold and calculating henin against the ferocious and passionate capriati... both not strangers to a little bit of gamesmanship, and of course you see that on display in this match too. keep an eye on the poor line judges

two contrasting but similarly engaging playstyles, the boisterous force of capriati coming up against henin's lethally elegant all-court game. henin's one handed backhand better than sex question mark. it's a great stylistic match-up, and produces some excellent tennis across the entire span of the match. just SUCH a great watch, like I really cannot speak highly enough of the level on display

a highly involved crowd who want their home favourite to win SO BADLY and are more than happy to do anything to help her cause. gets a bit wild, like the best us open matches tend to do

some truly insane momentum switches, many prompted by psychology and some prompted by physicality. one player's body starts letting her down in the final set in pretty striking fashion. one player's mind plays havoc with her, possibly even more memorably so. a very dramatic finale

the cruelty of tennis on full display. a match where you suffer for both players, who both want it so badly and are visibly fighting demons on the court. truly, truly brutal for the loser

I love this match so so much. I know it's very on-brand to direct you to a match from over two decades ago, but I promise you. it's worth it. sometimes the old stuff is the best

and do I EVER have a favourite player and rivalry!!!!!!

MY GIRLS. okay, look, they're both extremely retired and had their last match in 2010 BUT it is still my favourite rivalry!!!!!!! here, have another bit of my output for them:

wE hAvE aLwaYs ProTEcTEd tHis iMAge oF friENdShip tHat nEVeR eXistEd istgggggggg NOTHING WAS BROKEN BETWEEN US BECAUSE THERE WAS NOTHING TO BREAK

if you've ever heard someone be extremely annoying about federer's game, you probably can imagine what I sound like talking about henin. she's got my favourite backhand of all time, I genuinely think it is a work of art. I love how she moves, the way she unleashes on balls on the run, I love how she gets into the court in such a lithe and precise manner to pick up the next ball. I love how effective the serve is despite her height (number one commentating cliché for her lol, she's short we get it). the slices, the gorgeous drop volleys, the laser straight forehand... and again, the backhand. when she takes a swing at that thing and fucking pummels it past her opponent, stretches her wings to make the ball soar, it's just truly my favourite shot of all time. there's a specific backhand crosscourt on-the-run pass she hits in that aforementioned us open semifinal where... yeah. what can you even say. better than sex full stop

and well... okay, look, I am AWARE a lot of fans still hate her and I do get that she won't be everyone's cup of tea. but y'know. sometimes you just have to support women's rights and wrongs, and I do think some of the criticism of her is also a bit overblown. she's a cheater, yes, I won't argue with that. but I think sometimes cheating is interesting!! she really really really really needed to win, she was cold and ruthless about it - but also, I'm sorry, people would NOT have hated her quite so much if she were a man. and I'm also not saying a sad life story justifies cheating etc etc, but I do wish people were a bit more interested in why she needed to win so badly. she also has the number one athlete attribute that makes my brain go crazy - a deeply conflicted relationship with the sport itself. always caught between running towards and running away from tennis... yeah. god

the single best resource in tennis is a website called tennisabstract, it really is fantastic, I've contributed a bit to their match coding project before and definitely will again when my schedule's freed up a bit. I have a lot of time for the guy who runs it, I really do. there's this series he did, tennis 128, where he listed the top 128 players of all time according to his metric and wrote a piece for each of them... and I think they're all very interesting, it's a great project. but. there's a good chance henin got the most negative write-up of the lot, in a way I have to admit I take issue with. some excerpts:

well, tough luck. I don't care. the lgbt community has forgiven justine henin. look at what a cute tomboy she was as a teenager:

look at her holding a bird trophy:

wifey

the other half of that rivalry is her fellow belgian clijsters. very much a case of two narratives haunting each other!! do not separate!! anyhow, she's another player with a game I absolutely adore, these big scything groundstrokes but ALSO plenty of variety, like we're not talking a dull baseline basher here. and the movement!! sliding on a hard court is STILL pretty rare in the women's game, so it's very much seen as something associated with clijsters and clijsters alone:

life changing thighs is what I'll say

clijsters was everything henin was not - warm, popular in the locker room and with fans, a cheery outgoing personality who always had plenty of people rooting for her. she was also seen as too nice to win. and there are few things on this planet that get me going more than a choker. than somebody who just... freezes in the most important matches of her life. which for a while there had a nasty habit of involving henin, because of course they did

clijster's another one with a really fascinating career arc, one that is inextricably linked with henin's story - and thing is, she did get her happy ending. she's the feel-good story, proof that even chokers might be able to make it in the end. she conquered her demons... one of the very, very, very few to do so. she changed the narrative of her career completely. now I DO hate how this kinda... low key gets implicitly used as another stick to thwack henin with, this kind of, ooh!! look!! you can be a good person and be successful too!! which! idk. god forbid we root for a flawed athlete now and again. but I think this does a disservice to clijsters - not least because she WAS pretty nasty about henin in a way she wasn't about basically anyone else. henin and clijsters are more than just sinner and saint... don't let tennis fans tell you otherwise

and yeah, the two of them obviously had a bit of an emotionally tortured rivalry. belgium cooked up two insanely good tennis players born exactly one year and one week apart, the only two players of that stature the country has ever produced. they made each other better and they made each other worse. friends and enemies and something in between... and in the end, fundamentally inseparable. citadels have been built on less

anyway tbh I'm not going to pretend like anyone is summoning up that kind of narrative juice these days, but obviously I still have my faves. as regular blog readers may be aware, my favourite current player is this washed string bean who mostly just loses to more talented players and throws tantrums these days. I'll support him until his time runs up though. medvedev's got this fantastically unorthodox game that I could dissect all day, he's the smartest top player, he's funny as shit. his game should never have worked and he has no right to be as successful as he is. I could hold a lecture series on his forehand. I'm very much a pusher-inclined fan... I like counterpunchers, I like players who run around a lot and defend, and I also like tacticians. I was a pretty early adopter because I love a quirky playstyle and weird technique, which was then affirmed with the miami 2018 debacle (iykyk). but there was a moment I knew I would be his fan for life, and if you are a tennis fan you can probably guess what's coming:

"so I want all of you to know, when you sleep tonight, I won because of you" I fell in love

never ever has he let me down on the drama front. his "oops I did it again" basel 2018 instagram post, his "I think I killed someone? my apologies" from us open 2020, "if I die, who'll take responsibility" from olympics 2021, the "it's easier to enjoy life when you have no brain" paris 2021 monologue, the yawn at turin 2021, stomping on the ground davis cup 2021, the "his father can talk every point" ao 2022 rant, "I'm gonna pee as slow as this court" from iw 2023, when he got rid of the singles stick monte carlo 2023 plus the "look at yourself in the mirror" press conference comment, "vamo vamo vamo" from uso 2023... I could keep going. "shut your fuck up" has become a part of my vocabulary icl. I love his press conferences and watch a lot of them, just consistently a very interesting guy to listen to. he is unfortunately sort of hellish to follow as a fan, but y'know. sometimes it's not just trophies that make the journey worth it (cope)

women's tennis, my actual faves have basically disappeared from the scene this year so I'm not even gonna dignify them by mentioning their names. I am pretty ride-or-die for dasha kasatkina, a useless pusher who's also the wta's highest ranked lesbian and makes a vlog with her girlfriend I definitely recommend. I like her tennis a lot in all its horrendous pushing, she's very sweet and fun and produces an obscene number of cute photos with her girlfriend. beyond that, I suppose I am basically a swiatek and sabalenka fan this year, I find both of them highly engaging in different ways, I love how they're like... actually very good but are also seemingly constantly fighting demons. basically the two most compelling players in the game currently TO ME. I'm really really enjoying their rivalry, my main complaint is that I wish they played more (praying iga's new coach fixes her during the off-season). they produced by far the best match this year, madrid final, which I'd also absolutely recommend. but yeah, I generally vibe with all the top players of the women's game, if to differing extents!! really strong era at the minute that also promises to keep getting better. we pray

anyhow. a few more favourite matches - I'm going to try and hold myself back, because I really could go on forever. a lot of the old matches I watch are from noughties wta, but I'll limit myself because I'm aware this really is probably of interest to nobody and give just a further two - sharapova/henin wta finals 2007 and venus/davenport wimbledon 2005. both pretty normie picks, but sometimes the normie picks are normie picks for a reason

for my sins, I do have a few big three matches in fairly regular rotation, typically on in the background when I'm working. main ones are djokovic/federer us open 2011, djokovic/federer wimbledon 2019, djokovic/federer wimbledon 2014, and djokovic/nadal roland garros 2021. I also have a bunch of murray matches in rotation but I tend to mix it up for him more... my other go-to run is all of leylah fernandez's pre-final us open 2021 matches, which are just consistently bonkers in the best possible way. there's a few other recent-ish matches I really like to revisit, like iga/sublanko madrid 2023, fernandez/osorio monterrey 2022, kerber/juvan strasbourg 2022...

and then, of the more recent-ish men's matches, pretty obvious where my biases lie. medvedev/djokovic cincy 2019, med/wawrinka uso 2019, med/nadal atp finals 2020, med/thiem atp finals 2020, med/djokovic uso 2021, med/sinner atp finals 2021 (conceptually hilarious match), med/faa ao 2022 (go-to flight match, this one), med/tsi ao 2022, rune/djokovic paris 2022 (and honestly that whole rune run), med/zverev monte carlo 2023 (don't feel great about including this but I'd be lying if I said I didn't love it), rune/sinner monte carlo 2023, rune/foki madrid 2023, med/alcaraz uso 2023 (I promised I'd sing the american national anthem if he won that match so that's a voice note that still exists out there)... and so on

I could keep going, but I'll cut myself off here. and end things with my personal favourite instagram post tennis has produced. from after the aforementioned rune/foki madrid match:

'personally I hold nothing against the Spanish people' dw king I'll do it for you

[historia-vitae-magistras]

This is a little different from your usual content. But you have so much niche information that just I love to hear about. Do you have any podcast recommendations?

WHOO okay so I'm doing my nonfiction podcast recs and leaving out my horror or audio dramas but without further ado:

It's been out of production for years, but Caustic Soda is probably my favourite of all time. It's a small Canadian production of tons and tons of episodes on everything from shark attacks to murder to warfare to bugs and anthropology. It's so fucking funny and pretty well-researched as time goes on. Honestly, I was so young listening to this that it formed part of the lens through which I view the world.

Stuff You Missed in History Class: Often corny, wee bit lame, occasionally hilarious, always solid; this one is probably the one that has taught me the most. It's been on the air forever now, and it's really fucking great. They have also used sources that I actually dug out and made public for the first time and I'm quite proud of that. Its the favourite sweater of podcasts.

Time to Eat the Dogs is about the history of science and exploration. I highly recommend it if you like any of those things. I really like the host's interview style; all the guests are academics and authors. It's very conversational and feels like having a lovely sit-down with good friends, but those friends have Ph. Ds.

Casting Lots: Two really, really funny Brits discuss survival cannibalism across time and space. This podcast informed me that a story i heard as a fireside tale was based on true events. It somehow manages to mention Canada in every other episode and then some. I love the first three seasons in particular. They have truly done some incredible work in the course of their series and pulled from some primary sources that surprised even me, an actual archivist. They're shockingly respectful for how funny they are and how disturbing the content is and really take into consideration things like culture, empire, sex and racism as they discuss cannibalism, and it's just. I love it so much, truly.

Big Old Boats: It's not technically a podcast, but I've never once in my life actually watched the video as he discusses various maritime disasters, and I don't think I've ever missed anything by doing so. This is an absolute must-listen if you enjoy maritime history, missing ships, ghost ships, or just anything weird related to a boat. Archival work I did is actually mentioned in a couple of episodes!

Not What You Thought You Knew: Another podcast I really love that was, unfortunately, a very short run but academics and actual historians debunking popular historical myths. I am very, very fond of the episodes on The Night Witches in particular.

The Midnight Library: Last but not least my favourite fucking podcast currently running. It's a nonfiction podcast framed as a fictional witch/librarian in her cursed library telling (mostly) true stories around a particular theme, human vice, or any number of stories. And the way it's framed is so fucking great. Like they're talking about real history, witchcraft and folklore in so many of these, but you get little glimpses of world-building that have honestly started to bleed into the way I write. Even the ads are for fake magical businesses like 'the League of Lady Grave Diggers, the Broom and Fang pub. The library assistant/bouncer is a werewolf. The Witch's on-again and off-again boyfriend is a spring-heel jack. It's just so fucking clever a way to frame a nonfiction podcast in a spooky atmosphere while being historical, terrifying and funny in turns.

Anywho, if you listen to any of them let me know! And sorry if that went overboard!

[formulaorange]

2024 Spring Anime

Kaiju No. 8 This series started the same time as SpyxFamily and I've been waiting years for it to be animated. It's a series I was instantly hooked on. The animations in the teasers were incredibly sus but I'm glad to see it's pulled together. This is a must watch for this season. Noteworthy On-going Shows: Delicious in Dungeon - Episodes 13-24 A Character based comedic fantasy that honestly has me hooked. New Seasons:

Demon Slayer - Hashira Training Arc I can't believe we're already here. I think this will be one of the last 2 or 3 seasons of the show. This is one I'm not sure what to expect in terms of story but I'm looking forward to it regardless.

That Time I Got Reincarnated As a Slime - Season 3 One of the Og's is back baby. This is one of my all time favourite shows, one of the original fantasy/isekai series. This series gets better and better and I'm so hooked to each character. 100% biased opinion but if you haven't seen this, go check it out.

My Hero Academia - Season 7 This is one that I haven't caught up on the anime for so I'm not 100% where we are but I'm pretty sure it's about to get real dark. I think lots of people have put this show on the backburner or have dropped it entirely. But I really have to say we're starting to head into some of the peak of the series. It gets much darker and more serious and starts to shift from the original shonen high school style.

Additional New Seasons: Mushoku Tensei - Season 2 Cour 2 I won't lie, this arc honestly doesn't look very appealing to me. That said, I have faith in the writers and will be watching and updating if it picks up. Both of these shows from 2008 coming back were not on my bucket list but here we are: Spice and Wolf - Looks to be a re-make of the original series Black Butler - Public School Arc - New continuation of the og series Also: The Misfit of Demon King Academy II - Part 2 The Irregular at Magic High School - Season 3 Laid-Back Camp - Season 3 New Noteworthy Shows:

Wind Breaker A new series about a delinquent who moves to a school where it's all about being the strongest and beating each other up. Honestly it reminds me a little of Food wars but if it was actually about fighting instead of food lol. The animations look stellar, I'm actually pretty excited to check this one out. ( I'd also say it looks completely different to Tokyo Revengers so I wouldn't compare the two.)

Mission:Yozakura Family A newer shonen jump series about a kid who tries to integrate with a mismatched family of spies. Looks like a lot of fun and has a similar vibe to some old school SJ series.

Go! Go! Loser Ranger Why does this look so good. This series genuinely looks so cool, the animation look out of this world and the story looks killer. From what I can gather it's a guy who always plays the villain and is sick of his role. The story shows the heroes as villains and gives me a bit of Invincible vibes. (This is a Disney+ exclusive) The Fable I've heard that this is one of the most legendary comedies. I know there's a few live actions for it on Netflix but I haven't had a chance to check it out. I feel like the trailers don't seem to get anything across so this'll be one I'll follow up on.

Going through the extra shows is now the bane of my existence. I want to go back to before all the isekai light novels were being animated. After doing this I feel defeated that some of these look half-decent. Whisper Me a Love Song Wholesome girl's love series about figuring out what kind of love they feel for each other: 3 Episodes The Many Sides of Voice Actor Radio 2 girls who's offline personalities are total opposites, their rivalry in a brutal industry. Looks like it could be a fun slice of life series: 3 Episodes Jellyfish Can't Swim in the Night Looks like a really well done series about a group of girls forming an anonymous idol group: 3 Episodes

I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability The animations actually look amazing from the trailer and this series could be cute: 1 Episode An Archdemon's Dilemma: How to Love Your Elf Bride I think this might be a guilty pleasure show. I like the idea of the awkward romance between these two. Likely wouldn't reccommend this for a normal watcher: 1 Episode Grandpa and Grandma Turn Young Again Animations and concept look fun: 1 Episode Notable OVA's: Code Geass: Roze of the Recapture A prequel to the original series. The animation looks just like the OG and I'm so stoked that this is coming out.

[e-vay]

EVAY QA BULK POST 2

Here's a new assembly of asks, assorted by topics so you can browse only what interests you:

PERSONAL ASKS

Anon Asked: Have you ever watched The Nightmare Before Christmas? I was wondering if you watch it during Halloween or Christmas or do you consider it as both for the two seasons?

A: I LOVE THAT MOVIE!!! I consider it appropriate to watch for the last quarter of the whole year haha.

Anon Asked: Do you sometimes envision you and your husband as Sonic and Amy?

A: I do not, we really aren't anything like them. Ryan is very quiet and humble and shy. And yes I am forward and romantic like Amy, but unlike her, I'm an annoying little gremlin LOL!

Anon Asked: Have you ever watch 'Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles'? You MIGHT like it amd I highly recommend you watching it ( but don't force yourself if you don't want to)

A: I've never actually watched it properly, but I've watched compilations of it and I really enjoyed what I saw! I love the art style of it and I like how all the turtles are unique. Plus Ben Schwartz, c'mon!

Anon Asked: Hi e-vay, have you ever played life is strange?

A: Hi! YES! I loved that game. Nana always said that she was Chloe and I was Max haha. I didn't play the sequel though.

Anon Asked: Here’s some positivity to counter that negative ask you got! What’s your favourite thing about your new style? *grabby hands* Gimme all the details!

A: I appreciate that. Honestly, I didn't purposely "change" the way I draw; art just evolves over time ¯_(ツ)_/¯ Besides, I still think my style is MY style. I feel like the characters are more on-model and expressive and don't look as flat as I used to draw. If people don't like my art anymore that's fine. I like it, so really that's all that matters.

Anon Asked: EVAY I AM DISTRAUGHT, I've been perusing your blog looking at fanfics but I keep coming across some posts that I can't access anymore like ones by kbspeeding :( Do you know of any way to read them?

A: I know, it breaks my heart, too :( To my knowledge, there's no way to access the posts of anybody who has deactivated their accounts. I wish that wasn't the case because I sincerely miss her work, but I have to respect her and others' decisions to remove their content.

MISC SONIC ASKS

Anon Asked: What do u think of the amy rose ballerina hc? I think it’s so beautifully graceful and fits her so well💗🩰?

A: I'm not sure what specific headcanon you're referencing, but I definitely believe she knows ballet! Especially her idle animations in the Boom games. That girl knows how to dance.

Anon Asked: Do you like sonic unleashed or have you ever played it?

A: I never had the chance to play it, but I love the story and I love what I've seen. I am hoping they'll re-release it for the PS4 (or PS5) so I can finally play it!

Anon Asked: If you don’t mind me asking, what do you think of Barry the Quokka, the protagonist from The murder of sonic the hedgehog? If you don’t know anything about them what do you think of their design?

A: Of course I know the trash bin king! I like his design a lot. He's super cute and I love a nervous wreck of a character. I also loved that he was just this totally normal dude who has to spend an afternoon with the most insane group of friends ever.

Anon Asked: If you had to choose, what is your favorite and your least favorite sonic game?

A: I always have a hard time answering this because there are so many styles of games and I think some are better at certain aspects than others. For example, I think Frontiers had the best writing and actor perfomances. I still think Sonic Adventure 2 has the best gameplay and replay value. And Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is my favorite of the classics because I think it's the most visually perfect and the gameplay is a lot of fun. But if I have to choose, I guess I have to go with SA2 because I never get sick of it. My least favorite is Sonic Spinball haha I suck at it.

@tonyrockstar15 asked: Hey E-Vay, have you thought of making your own Sonic Fan-Cartoon?

A: I kind of already do that with my comics :) I would love to make animations, but unfortunately I just don't have the time to do that kind of thing regularly.

Anon Asked: Do you think sonic does his taxes?

A: He has no income! But if he did make any money, I'm sure Tails would make him do it (and by that I mean, file his taxes for him because he's worried Sonic will do it wrong)

@twistedchaos101 asked: Hey, What is your expectation for the new Sonic Frontiers DLC?

A: Sweet, sweet content! By the time I'm writing this I've already played some of it and I LOVE IT! UGH, Sonic Team has been so good to us in 2023! 😭💙

Anon Asked: Hey E-Vay! Big fan of your art. I was curious to know what’s going to happen with the Hell Hath No Fury comic? Will it be continued or left up to fan interpretation following the Shadow page?

A: Thank you so much! I will finish it. It won't be left up for interpretation. I just have to get to it.

Anon Asked: Is there a possibility that everyone I mean Sonic,Shadow,Amy,Tails, Aurora and so on have some mental illness? I now that Shadow does have PTSD at some point, but does anyone else have some specific mental illness? Btw love your art ✨

A: Thank you so much for the compliment! I'm not a professional so I don't feel right diagnosing anyone with anything, even if they are fictional characters. I personally suffer from anxiety and depression so I can speak to that, but I don't think I am the person to comment on anything else.

MY OCs/AU ASKS

Here are some fun questions I received from @pccyouthleader about Aurora that I wanted to share:

Q: What are Aurora’s primary and secondary love languages?

A: I had to take the Love Language quiz as Aurora. I got her primary as Quality Time. Physical Touch and Acts of Service were nearly tied for second.

Q: Does she like practical jokes? I remember you saying at one point that sometimes she acts without considering the reactions.

A: Yes! She loves a good prank, so long as it doesn’t hurt anybody. Sometimes she doesn’t realize that not everybody enjoys a practical joke though.

Q: Is Aurora competitive?

A: She is, because she feels like she’s got a lot to prove. But not to the point where she’s going to hurt a kids feelings just so she can say she won at something. She’s always going to let little ones win.

Q: Do she have a guilty pleasure?

A: She loves reading romance novels and sometimes she writes friend-fictions like Amy does in Sonic Boom or Tina in Bob’s Burgers hahaha

Q: What quality does she most value in Shadow?

A: She loves how he is unapologetically himself, if that makes sense. Despite what he was created for, he is his own man/hedgehog and he’s forged his own path. Even when others try to put him down or break him, he knows who he is and he doesn’t back down and she’s in awe of that.

Q: Pet peeves?

A: Closed-mindedness is the main thing. Whether that’s about something important like accepting somebody for who they are, or something small like not willing to try a type of food for the first time. She doesn’t understand how people can be like that and it irks her. She also hates when people agree to something and then they flake out haha

Q: If she were shopping, what type of store would she choose and what type of item?

A: One of those record stores that has a little bit of everything. You go there for music and movies and books and they always have fun, quirky gifts. Even though the world she lives in is futuristic, she can appreciate classic things and finds them fascinating. Otherwise yeah she’d love a thrift shop because there’s always strange stuff in there. Wherever she shops, she can’t leave any store without getting something silly that she found cute.

Q: What is her most and least favorite chore?

A: Her favorite chore is spring cleaning, where everybody rummages through everything and downsizes stuff. She likes it just because of the things she’ll find that she’s forgotten about or never knew was in the house. Her least favorite chore is laundry. It’s boring and it never ends!

Q: Outside of swimming and singing, what others hobbies does she have?

A: She loves to dance, that’s a big one. I’ve also joked in the past that she’d do really well if Shadow ever brought her to a gun range, so with that in mind she’d find things like laser tag and paintball super fun

Q: I remember you saying she hadn’t traveled a lot, so if Aurora could choose anywhere to visit, what place would she most like to see?

A: She’d love to go to outer space. She’d never been to space before meeting Shadow. But she also gets that it’s a “ridiculous” dream since she hasn’t even explored all of her own planet yet. Honestly she would be happy to travel anywhere, she wants to see the whole world and beyond. She wants to experience the most of life.

Q: What is her favorite fairy tale?

A: Thumbelina. She could see herself in that story a lot: a small lady who is loved but doesn't really fit in anywhere, and gets whisked around by others trying to control what she does with her life. In the end she's rewarded for her kindness and finally finds where she belongs.

-----

@nerdk7 asked: Don’t know if you answered this question, but how did Shadow propose to Aurora? Was it sweet? Chaotic? Or both?

A: I can't reveal that yet! 🥰 I want to keep it a surprise!

@mod-bubamon asked: I have a question about cc...maybe a few im sorry I'm kinda obsessing over how adorable she is tailsxcc for life We know cc can indeed feel,but can she feel pain? Does she know about the ai art and apps? How does she feel about them? I'm sure that in winter mobians fur coats grow thicker. So did cc somehow implement that into her body? Also how much more cuddly would she get when tails fur grows out? Sorry for all the questions out of nowhere, I've been a fan since I've started tumblr a while ago.

A: Please don't ever apologize for questions. I'm happy you're so interested! And especially glad you enjoy CC! When she was in her original "drone-like" form she couldn't feel pain but she could feel fear. When she builds her Mobian body, she engineers it so she does have all kinds of feeling-receptors, including pain. Not that pain is enjoyable to her, but it's important for her to be able to have as much of the Mobian-experience as possible. I wasn't expecting AI Art to pop off the way it has so I never thought to include it in my work. CC is beyond the AI form now though, she's a full on person. Just like Sage became a full person, beyond just her programming. So I think she and Sage have the ability to create their own forms of art from their own minds. I think I've address something similar in the past: CC has the ability to just play music from her body like a speaker, but she preferred to learn how to play an instrument because she wanted to experience the art form properly. CC didn't think to include a winter coat for her Mobian body, but upon snuggling with Tails she'd definitely add that to her list of future modifications! He's the fluffiest of them all in the winter so he'd be so snuggly and warm and lovely. Thank you for following me!

@firerush asked: What does Aurora think of her Werehog form? What does she think of Shadow's or even Sonic's if that's canon?

A: She likes that she's finally tall, but other than that she doesn't like how she looks. She's very self-conscious about her werehog form. But she loves how Shadow and Sonic look as werehogs.

@jhyannarqq768 asked: How would you think if Aurora was the project while shadow was a mortal one? And i just wanted to ask how would you think if there's a another universe that Aurora it's he imortal and shadow it's the mortal?

A: Well, if she was the project she wouldn't be Aurora. She is the creation of Sonic and Amy so without them she wouldn't exist :) As far as her being immortal and Shadow being mortal: If Shadow was engineered in the 50s and he wasn't made immortal then they never would have met. He would have passed away long before she ever came around.

Anon Asked: How good of a fighter is Rory?

A: She is average as far as physical combat. She's better at diversions and dodging, using an opponents' energy against them. If she was playable in a game, I imagine she'd have a lot of QTE actions that allow her to dodge a boss and make them tire themselves out before she uses her light powers to damage them. While she attended the Young Heroes program she learned combat, but Sonic never wants her in harms' way so he instructed her to always try to distance herself from enemies so she can use her long-range light powers. But she won't back down from a fight if it means she can protect someone else.

@jordanjoebanana asked: Can the Shadora kids turn super when they have all the emeralds or is it only just Shadow,Aurora,and Sonic?

A: All the kids can go super except for the third litter (Cinder, Diamond and Boon). Those three aren't able to use chaos emeralds at all. The family does not know why.

@mysticalsuitfury asked: What led you to create a child for sonamy and naming her aurora?

A: I always make fan kids for everything I'm obsessed with. If you knew me from my Naruto days, I had a huge world of Naruto kids. So naturally I wanted to give my favorite couple of all time (Sonic and Amy) a kid! As far as the name, Aurora is my favorite name in the world. Ever since I saw Sleeping Beauty as a child, I've loved that name. So I gave my favorite name to the child of my favorite couple. Also I think it suits her personality: Colorful, cheerful, hopeful.

@twistedchaos101 asked: Aurora speaks how many languages?

A: She only speaks English.

@aurorathehedge6 asked: How old is Ruff and T-Bone since Aurora is now an adult and have kids?

A: Ruff is 8 years younger than Aurora and Tumble is 12 years younger than Aurora. For most of my comics where Aurora is not yet married, she is 20 years old.

@animeartbros asked: Do Aurora Piper and Blitz hang out much?

A: Piper and Blitz are constantly bickering so a girls' day out tends to involve a lot of yelling and picking on each other haha. It involves a lot of Aurora going "Girls, remember, your sister is your best friend for life. You don't know how lucky you are to have siblings! TT_TT Please stop fighting."

Anon Asked: Has shadow ever taught any or all of his kids how to use a gun and if so how did Aurora feel about it? | And another Anon asked: If Shadow tells his children where babies come from, I am sure that he taught them how to 'defend yourself' with a gun at a very young age ... or at least tried haha I see sometimes short comics in which Shadow tries to teach Cream how to use a gun and I can imagine that this mf would totally try to do the same with his children. Would Shadow succeed if he tried this or would Aurora stop him?

A: Gun-wielding is a part of Shadow's identity so I'd never take that aspect away from him. And Aurora actually enjoys shooting too (targets, not people!) so she doesn't feel weird about that topic. However, I believe that they are huge proponents for RESPONSIBLE GUN OWNERSHIP so they keep all their weapons securely locked up and unloaded at ALL TIMES. And Shadow wouldn't teach the kids how to shoot until they're MUCH older and responsible enough to handle such a dangerous weapon. But you'd better believe he trained them well in marksmanship via laser tag and paintball as kids!

Anon Asked: Hi! I noticed that in your Aurora-comics Sonic grows a mustache as he gets older - what made him come to that decision? And what does Amy think about it???? What about kissing Sonic with a 'stache? I, personally, think he kind of resembles Eggman so, I'm not that big of a fan but that doesn't matter! I'm more interested on their POV. I still love the way you draw them, btw. And it's really sweet to see them together through the passage of time 🥰

A: Hi and thank you so much! Honestly, the reason I gave him a mustache was just to make him appear older haha. I tried multiple ways to age him up but the mustache was the most effective. Originally, I wanted to give him something more distinguished but I ran into two problems: 1 - I didn't want people mistaking him for Uncle Chuck. 2 - I don't see Sonic taking the time to properly sculpt a mustache/beard, so I gave him something rough and simple haha. I have drawn him deciding to grow it out and Amy's reaction to it :) Amy loved it, then didn't like it, then went back to loving it because now she gets the most ticklish, delicious kisses! 🥰 The good thing about hair/fur is that it's not permanent! You can always change it :)

Anon Asked: Omg ur feeding us so WELL with the content I honestly can’t picture actual sonic canon anymore without Aurora like she is completely canon in my mind I love her so much!! Also I have a kinda weird question, if Aurora saw a gay or lesbian couple out in public as a little kid and she was curious about it, how would sonic or amy explain it to her?

A: Aw, thank you! Well the Sonic franchise has been feeding ME well this year so I have the energy to nourish you all hahaha. I'm so happy you accept Aurora 🥰 I like to think that Sonic and Amy are very accepting and loving people and would raise their children to believe that too. Also, Aurora is VERY used to seeing public displays of affection from her parents, so if she saw two people kissing or holding hands in public, no matter their gender, she'd be bouncing up and down "OOH ARE THEY IN LOVE?! ARE THEY IN LOVE??" and Sonic and Amy would be like "That's right, Tiny!"

Anon Asked: What have been going on in Aurora's mind when she was a baby?

A: I'm not sure babies think about much 😉 Just general thoughts of "Mom, Dad, Food, Joy, Sleepy" But hey I could be wrong!

Anon Asked: Out of curiosity, I know that you ship Shadow + Aurora together (and I’m okay with that)… But what if the Time-Travel Adventure never happened?… What if Shadow never went on a Big-Space Adventure and stayed with the Others?… What if he was there to watch Aurora grow up, with the Others?… What would their relationship be like, if that happened?… Would Shadow become like Aurora’s Uncle or be like a Teacher/Mentor to her, in the ways of combat?… Or would they somehow still have a romantic relationship, instead of platonic? 😇?

A: Even if Shadow never left, I don't imagine he'd spend much time with Aurora as a child. He and Sonic are not friends, and though I'm sure he'd consider Amy a friend, I don't think they're close enough for him to want to be actively involved in their kid's life. I don't think he'd even be actively involved in Ruff and Tumble's lives if he was on-world the whole time. It'd be more of a "Oh... hey kids... just here to see your mom... goodbye..." He'd likely be more of an idol to Aurora and she wouldn't mean anything to him. That being said, I do believe in soulmates, and again Shadow is immortal so he does not age. So I believe that once she's grown up, that's when he starts to really see her for who she is and that attraction would come later in life, but that would not happen while she was a child obviously.

Anon Asked: What was the scariest movie that Aurora ever saw and how exactly did it end?

A: Aurora does not like scary movies so she avoids them haha. Sometimes she'll agree to watch a classic horror movie with Shadow because he likes that kind of thing but she still finds it terrifying haha. Aurora can sort of handle movies like Wolfman or Dracula but not anything more intense than that. She couldn't sleep for days after "Night of the Living Dead (1968)"

Anon Asked: i appreciate the effort you went thru compiling all those asks. felt like a free readers digest that was nice to read through! …and now here are more questions 😈 1- how does grandpa sonic feel about shadow’s shadoralets? i wonder if he jokingly calls em faker and lil fakers sometimes haha. 2- whats it like having amassed long time followers of your art stuff? (ive been around since the ol 2009 days)?

A: I'm so happy you enjoyed my last set of asks, Anon. I hope you return and see your question here! Grandpa!Sonic is wayyyy more accepting of his son-in-law at this point and doesn't hold (much) ill-will towards him. However he does revel in the fact that Shadow doesn't know a moment of peace now that he's got a million children haha! But he loves his grandkids to death and so does Grandma!Amy. I did an old comic (having a hard time finding it right now) where Sonic has a dream about his future grandkids and when he wakes up he calls them "Tiny Fakers" but he would never actually call his grandkids that. They're his family! I appreciate that compliment and I can't believe you've been following me for so long! I'm honored (and blown away haha!). Honestly though I don't really think about the concept of having "followers" all that much. I just look at it as I'm here having fun drawing silly things and I've been lucky enough to have other people come and enjoy it with me. I'm very thankful for the support, especially to those who have tagged along for as long as I've been online.

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SHIPPING ASKS

@tatablue2004 asked: Do you like silvaze?

A: I like it enough, but I don't actively seek it out. I'm mostly indifferent to Blaze and to Silver as characters so I'm not that invested. But I do think they're cute.

@chrismantike asked: What’re your thoughts on the shadaria ship? A: 👎

Anon Asked: Sonadow yes or no?

A: Yes! I like them having a bickering, sassy relationship where they still annoy each other but they actually really care about each other.

Anon Asked: How do you feel about Sonic x selly? Would you ever draw them? Maybe for a time travel thing or a space rip or something??

A: I believe you're asking about Sally Acorn. If so, no I do not ship it and I won't draw it. If you're referring to another character, then I'm sorry but I don't know who that is.

Anon Asked: What do u think of amy being sapphic in any shape or form?

A: That's hard to say, since we've only ever seen Amy have eyes for Sonic. I'm not against it, though.

Anon Asked: In your universe, have Sonic and Amy had any suuuper big fight in the marriage? If so, what would it be like for them and how do you think it’d “affect” their relationship??

A: I mostly avoid heavy topics and fights because we get enough of that in other media and I like most of my art to be a safe place people can go to to just get a good boost of feel-good serotonin! So for my main storyline, they get into little arguments and bicker over small things because all couples do, but I try not to ever put them in a giant blow-out fight that will alter their relationship. That being said, the biggest disagreement I ever have them going through is in Aurora's Time Travel adventure (which still hasn't been published yet, sorry!). Sonic adamantly believes Aurora should not risk her life and time travel in that story and Amy disagrees. This will put tension between them for awhile, but ultimately they will be okay.

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Thank you all for the questions! There are way more but I don't have the mental capacity to answer any more at this time lol

Evay QA Bulk Post 1

Evay QA Bulk Post 3

Evay QA Bulk Post 4

Evay QA Bulk Post 5

Evay QA Bulk Post 6

[noirbriar]

Glorestor: 5 Times They Denied (4)

+ 1 time They Did Not. From the POVs of the various folks around the 2 elves who are convinced they are courting, or betrothed, even though they were told otherwise.

We are going travelling! Out of the Valley (cough gossip central cough) and into the East. Dress in your best because we are meeting the King of Greenwood! As always OOC and plotholes are all on me,warning for messy chapter ahead

---

4] Thranduil Oropherion

There is a storm in the East.

Thranduil Oropherion,King of Eryn Galen, is not having a good day as he woke up to a thunderstorm with a deep feeling in his gut there was something amiss. Not one for superstition, the Elvenking finds himself wondering otherwise when his favourite jade comb broke unexpectedly.

After which, that unsettling feeling only grew, when he received word from Feren that his son has elected to extend his patrols beyond their outer borders and will not return for some time. 

The day soon takes a turn for the worse. As a frantic servant informed him and Galion that the shipment of wine they had ordered for their Summer Banquet that evening have been waylaid and lost by the Dorwinion traders due to bandits. Such dreadful incompetence is borderline ridiculous.

The summer solstice is a sacred time to the eldar. A day that all of the first-born observed and celebrated. In his Kingdom it is known as the Summer Banquet, and is meant to be a great day of revelry and merrymaking. This marks the first proper celebration since the death of Smaug and the Battle of the Five Armies two years ago with the East and Eryn Galen healing. His Summer Banquet will happen, and it shall be done regardless. Absurd weather and lack of proper wine be damned.

As he holds court with his advisors on state matters, his own guard, Lethuin, comes throwing the doors wide open and sprinting in. Almost tumbling over his feet and crashing onto the grand floor as he knelt before his liege, bowing nervously at a lost of words.

"M-My King-"

"Speak." Thranduil commands without looking, focused instead on the report in his hands. Not wanting his day to be further ruined by something insignificant.

Oh Valar, how wrong he was.

A black mass of foulness comes flying through the massive doors and into the room. The object sliding across the pristine floors, causing his startled advisors to either flee beyond the pillars or take up arms before their liege. The thing, if one could call a blob of hair and fur that, starts to slow down and bounce along a little until it came to a complete stop, rolling next to a pale Lethuin with a long trail of ooze. Its many eyes pale and unmoving with a wide deformed maw as Thranduil and his staff stare at the gruesome lump.

It was the body, or whatever is left of it, of a wretched Spider queen that lurked in his woods. One that his soldiers have sought for the past season.

“Oh. Pardon me, I’m afraid I have caused a dreadful mess in my enthusiasm.” A low, silky voice resounds, echoing across the vast room. 

An Imladrim warrior approaches, in full golden armour and helm. A high collared royal blue cape hiding most of his face, taking each stride with elegant steps and twin blades strapped to his sides. An ellon with strangely familiar dark silver eyes and a confident gleam. 

Eryn Galen has never received guests for festivities except official visits pertaining to politics. Which in Thranduil's polite opinion? Is absolutely, perfectly, fine. He honestly could care less about the other realms and their ridiculous sensibilities. Although Thranduil shall deny to the ends of Arda if asked, there is one guest that he has been eagerly awaiting to meet for the past month.

The Imladrim comes to stand beside the sprawling Lethuin, blinking at the soldier curiously for a minute.

“Is there dignity on the floor that you seek for you to sprawl as such?”

Thranduil shoots a deathly glare at this rude warrior with an annoyed twitch under his eye. The King was about to call the lowly soldier out when he sees a group entering his halls behind this ellon. Their leader arriving into his kingdom at long last.

There in his halls leading his warriors, was Glorfindel of Imladris, Lord of the Golden Flower, Captain of the Imladrim army. 

Oh! How long has it been since the great hero have graced Eryn Galen with his valiant presence. Even though he had loved and bonded with Mirien, his beloved queen, it was this radient Lord who allowed a young and lonely sindar King, bitter at everyone and everything, to feel once more after the wretched war.

—

The old Lord of Gondolin had once dwelt in Eryn Galen as an ambassador after the Last Alliance. Newly crowned and mourning still for his adar and countless of lives lost, the gates of his Kingdom lay closed after returning from that doomed battle. The Emissary of the Valar himself arrived with a delegation from the Valley. In hopes to aid the elven realms in their recovery and provide greater protection against the stray orcs now with their leader defeated.

Thranduil had met the great warrior only once before the war. Despite his half noldor heritage and loyalty to a noldor king, the Lord of the Golden Flower was as the songs have sung, noble and beautiful in his resplendent battle armor. However, the young crown prince did not have the opportunity to be acquainted more with the balrog-slayer as it was his father and court who dealt with the Noldor and the Galadhrim. 

It was that tiny glimmer of curiosity that won out. Thus, allowing the retinue from Imladris to enter the sealed realm of the young Elvenking.

How brightly that light of Aman shines in his darkened halls under the spring twilight! The mighty Lord of the House of Golden Flower was fair and regal. His voice rang with such spirit and strength. Donned in polished golden armor and royal blues of Imladris with a pure flowing white cape, such is a fitting image for the hero in the songs.

It was there on his throne with that heavy crown on his brow, the young King felt a pull towards this fair warrior before him. For once since the end of that dreadful War, he felt a sensation stir in his frozen spirit once more.

During his stay, Glorfindel and his warriors gave great aid and support to the remaining soldiers of Eryn Galen. The Lord himself was kind to the newly crowned King, providing much wisdom and counsel. His gentleness without being patronising brought great comfort to Thranduil's heart as the seasons turned.

Until finally, the young sindar decided to be bold and take a chance one winter eve.

"Would you not stay, Lord Glorfindel? For surely Eryn Galen could use your great wisdom and strength. Whatever you may wish, and that you desire… surely, our Kingdom can offer you and more?" Thranduil asks over some drinks in the royal palour, draped in a luxurious robe and free from his heavy crown. Soft, silky hair flowing loose and tumbling down his back as he saunters near. 

Glorfindel turns his distant gaze away from the lazy, drifting snow falling beyond the grand windows and the distant darkness. Even in simple silver long tunic and leggings, the Golden Lord was a sight. His azure eyes remained unblinking, observing the young ellon curiously. Thranduil finds himself paralysed beneath those bright eyes, feeling the mighty Lord's gaze filled with treelight scrying deep into his fea. He cannot move, not even when gentle fingers tilt his chin up to stare deeply into the warrior’s eyes.

It was a long while before he releases the young King's face. With a last sip of his wine, emptying the goblet in his hand, Glorfindel turns away, back to the dark snowy skies.

A strange owl's call echoed from a distance. The Lord of the Golden Flower smiles wistfully.

"Eryn Galen and her bountiful trees may have her majestic allure. Though this old soul loves the boundless valley and her storms, wild and endless, far too much for anything else. I find it hard to leave the dear place I have come to call home."

A knock disturbs the peace and Glorfindel's Deputy, Laica, enters with a deep bow, a fierce owl not native to his lands perched on her arm before it swiftly takes flight. The owl settling onto Glorfindel who sets down his glass and welcome the irritable bird with quiet coos. After a long while of smoothing the seemingly temperamental creature, the Lord finally turns to the mystified young King.

"Long have I been away, and now my heart yearns for my home."

By the following morn as the snow stops falling and the air turns warm, the Lord and his troops left to depart homeward. Far beyond the Misty Mountains. It was the last time Thranduil has seen the Golden Warrior. 

Till now.

—

"Long has it been since I have stepped into your great forest, it is a pleasure and delight to see you once again, your Majesty." Glorfindel removes his helmet, a golden braid tumbling behind him like a stream of rich molten gold as the Captain greets with much joy.

The handful of Imladrim guards bow down low, as it is proper for elves of their station. All, except for the first warrior who rudely intruded his halls, standing beside the Captain. The disrespect and arrogance from this soldier quickly starting to irritate the King’s nerves.

A hand then lifts to tug the high collared cape loose, and slowly removing his helm, allowing long dark tresses to fall down freely in a tumbling cascade of darkness.

The air in his court shifts in an instant and there is a low rumbling from nothingness. The King of Greenwood is uncertain if it is from his advisors, or that wretched growing headache in the back of his head.

For once, the Elvenking had wished it was Councillor Saelbeth, their usual ambassador from Imladris, who seem to have a disdain for speaking except for politics and pleasantries. Even trees have more to say than the uptight elf. Thranduil really is not sure which of the Valar he had offended that day to receive this particular official or if Elrond Peredhel truly wishes to see him suffer.

How could he have forgotten this damn ellon? His adar would be outraged. Probably livid and bringing down the Halls of Mandos if he knew that a faithful follower of the Sons of Feanor had entered his Kingdom.

There, clad in the armour of the Valley’s warriors, is none other than chaos incarnate, the bane of his advisors, Chief Councillor Erestor of Imladris himself.

The sindar King studies the old feanorian before him. It had been years since he had first laid eyes on the shadow trailing behind the young Lords Elrond and Elros Peredhel, in the court of Lindon of High King Gil-Galad. A kinslayer, silent with dark defiant eyes.

Several yeni had passed, that lowly elf who started from the bowels of Lindon's court had clawed his way above the rest and risen above his station. Now in place of the memory of that mysterious, rugged noldor in the shadows, Chief Councillor Erestor stands before him. Sharp, handsome and confident, with an aura of authority- A dangerous ellon.

Nothing will change Thranduil's mind on this. 

"Hail, King Thranduil of Eryn Galen! Blessed, be your Kingdom that now grows ever stronger. We thank you for your welcome and allowing us to partake in your generosity and the festivities.” Erestor opens up diplomatically with that smooth, alluring voice and a proper, respectful bow with his hand over his heart. The feanorian's dark silvery green eyes meeting his gaze boldly.

"Well met, Lord Glorfindel, Lord Erestor. Your journey has been long, may you and your soldiers find joy with us on this glorious eve! We have been expecting you. Though I do wonder what brought the great Captain and Chief Councillor to be simple escort to the Naugrim?" Thranduil drawls slowly and carefully, like watching a viper for its every movement. "You can imagine my surprise when my rangers have reported of your presence with the Dwarves of the Blue Mountains. They also seemed to have missed out in mentioning you were with the escort, Councillor Erestor.”

Erestor is composed, and returns with a small, cryptic smile.

“My deepest apologies, your Majesty, I meant no offence in concealing my being. Long has it been since I have been out of the Valley, I’m afraid that I just find it much more convenient to travel incognito as a personal preference. I hope you may pardon the ill oversight on my part.” Erestor lowers his head in apology, "Though that is why I have brought a gift that we have chanced upon on our way back from Erebor. In hopes that it would show the sincerity of myself and Imladris, to your great generosity.”

Erestor gestures with a lofty hand to the corpse of a very dead Spider queen. 

The Elvenking can see why his ambassadors loathe to meet the Chief Councillor, and curse Erestor’s name to Angband and back upon their return from their travels to Imladris.

”To the other enquiry…It was a promise. To dear Bilbo Baggins, who have become a dear friend to our Lord and us.”

“Oh? Elf-friend Bilbo Baggins? He has written a letter to me to ensure passage to his dwarves and their kin early on. Does he not trust this King’s word to him and King Dain?” Thranduil replies coolly with an arched brow, awaiting.

"Nay, your Majesty! Master Bilbo did mention of your generous commitment to seeing the Dwarrow from Ered Luin safely through as they make their way home. Imladris simply wishes to take the opportunity to further extend a hand of friendship to the free peoples of the East. For it seems that we have long neglected our great woodland kin.It is here, that our benevolent Lord Elrond have expressed his desire to remedy that in such peculiar times."

At that, Erestor brings out a letter and hands it over to a petrified Lethuin. Who remains still, until Erestor shakes the letter again. With a gesture of his chin and a raised brow for the petrified guard to take it to his King.

Thranduil doubt its that simple as Lethuin finally slowly hands the missive over but, no matter. This is a problem to deal with in another time.

He hands the unopened letter to Galion and lets his eyes wander to Glorfindel for the moment. Who has gladly remained silent with an serene smile. The Golden Lord being content to let them carry out their exchange in diplomacy. Though it has not escaped Thranduil's notice that those bright azure eyes have not once strayed from the feanorian beside him.

After a moment more of allowing himself to enjoy the sight of this beloved hero, Thranduil finally turns back to Elrond’s feanorian advisor. One with Earendilion’s favour and unfortunately, obvious diplomatic immunity.

"Indeed, such are uncertain times. Very well. In any case, come, we speak no more of politics. We have prepared rooms for you to freshen up and rest. Join me and my court tonight and let us enjoy the summer solstice together.” Thranduil then gestures for Galion to see to their guests.

"The honour should be ours, your Majesty. We look forward to tonight, for it seems even the summer storm has ceased in anticipation for your Banquet. Long may you reign!" Erestor replies eloquently, before he and Glorfindel both bow once more with their soldiers in respect as they turn to leave. The two leaders sharing a quiet conversation between themselves as they go.

“See? It bears less effort by kicking it, and certainly more efficient than dragging that creature in.”

“We could have taken off its last legs so its less of a burden. Get it? On its last legs?”

“Absolutely dismal. Elrohir and Elladan have been rubbing off you too much it seems.”

The Captain laughs brightly and freely without restraint, nudging the advisor playfully. With a light huff and a nudge back, the councillor places a hand on the warrior’s arm, tugging his amused companion to hurry along, their warriors quietly in tow.

Thranduil stares at them in quiet contemplation and surprise, for this side of Glorfindel was a sight he had not seen before in their short time together. 

How strange.

—

As dusk falls upon the forest, the lamps glow with his elves laughing and making merry, the food and drinks flowing freely. Talented minstrels singing songs of life's delights, with the bards playing lifting melodies to fill the air.

Thranduil settles comfortably into his throne and observes with young Meludir as his companion and tending to him. Dressed in exquisite greens and blues, draped in fine diamonds like falling stars. A smaller summer crown sits on his brow with perfect white blooms. The Elvenking basks in the joyous atmosphere and about to take a sip of his wine when his guests finally appear.

The Imladrim arrives neatly and orderly. Warriors now dressed in formal robes of reddish copper and bronze, with their leaders leading them into the grand hall.

Such dazzling aura and warm light from one blessed by the Valar! It is rare for Lord Glorfindel to leave the lands of Imladris but it is nothing short of wonderful to see the mighty Lord of Gold here in his halls once more. 

Tunic and robes of gold and white embroidered with a garden of blooming flowers hugs his muscular form. The famed golden hair done up in elaborate braids with most flowing down in waves. His inner light glowing like he is a maiar more than an eldar, a personification of power and grace both. The court of Eryn Galen is awed by the presence of the Emissary himself, as they were the day when he first came to his Kingdom.

Though where there is light, darkness follows. 

Clad in resplendent silk and sheer lace dyed in midnight, cut low at the back with a shimmering sash trailing in his wake. He is adorned with gold and rare black pearls twinkling under the lights. A ear cuff and dazzling earrings shine brightly in contrast against his crown of dark braids. With smoky gold makeup turning his dark gaze into something bewitching. The Tempest of Imladris commands absolute attention with his boldness and allure.

Erestor is the definition of sin, wrapped in eldar skin. 

They all come before him and greet Thranduil with a bow. Which the Elvenking raises his goblet in response. Glorfindel then releases his warriors with a carefree wave to enjoy the celebration.

The two Lords of Imladris themselves began to mingle with members of his court. Though his advisors are clearly wary, especially the diplomats who have been to Imladris. Glorfindel's kind and outspoken disposition and familiarity with some of his elves however, seem to ease any tension. Until one of the old Lords of his kingdom joins in abruptly, interrupting the exchanging of casual pleasantries.

"Good evening, Erestor.” The slight by not addressing Erestor's proper title is painfully obvious and does not go unnoticed, but Thranduil chooses to sit back and observe quietly.

"Ah, Lord Glavraion! Its been awhile since I have seen you at a Scholar's Conference in our fair Valley. I heard you have been busy with your responsibilities here. I have hoped dearly to speak more with you with regards on the discourse on the translation of edain dialects and regional symbolisms.” Erestor smiles congenially.

"Certainly. Well, I have been busy, duty calls after all. Not all of us have the time for mere leisure, or travel on a whim for other than work." Glavraion replies dryly with a disconcerting look.

Thranduil has to hide his annoyance under a disinterested mein. That remark was delivered poorly with much obviousness that was stupid of Glavraion. The Elvenking had long heard of how the advisor had shot down Glavraion's debate during a Conference years ago, when he was still an aspiring scholar. Which was quite a spectacle based on what he heard. No doubt, the old lord still bears a grudge and is less than pleased to see Erestor here.

"I understand. It is quite a feat that you are able to handle your work life balance this well, being a family man on top of your duties. I can never achieve such with the many duties placed upon me by my Lord Elrond." Erestor gives a small shrug, taking a momentary pause before raising a coy gaze.

"Ah! But how terrible of me, I almost forgot to give you my felicitations! I heard you are expecting a grandchild soon! Such splendid news!" The advisor congratulates with great cheer, raising his wine glass to congratulate the Lord.

Ah...In straight for the kill with no remorse. Its not a widely known, but Glavraion's daughter have just broken off the engagement her adar have painstakingly made for her. The elleth quickly eloping to Lothlorien with her noldor lover, breaking off ties with her family.

The Elvenking wonders if Elrond Peredhel is aware of the casual chaos his Chief Advisor seem to thrive in. 

"Ah, yes, that, well, thank you. Well then, I must attend to something now. Excuse me." With that cold note, Glavraion takes his leave. While the others around them remain awkwardly silent during the exchange. All except Glorfindel, who seems genuinely unbothered. Even as he plucks a canape from a passing servant’s tray and gently hands the savoury tart to Erestor.

The feanorian just stares blankly at the tart for a moment, pondering. Before slowly leaning in to take a bite straight from the warrior’s fingers. Plush lips carefully nipping those calloused tips, a soft pink tongue darting out to lick away the stray crumbs.

Thranduil’s eyes widen at that outrageous act. Which certainly did not go unnoticed by others, even if the Imladrim seem to not be fazed by their superiors' blatant display. He certainly spotted one of the soldiers rolling her eyes as she returned to her chat with the lovely elleth serving the desserts. 

Erestor finishes his treat before leaning closer to Glorfindel, speaking of something private into the Golden Lord’s ear with hooded eyes. The taller elf placing a large hand without a thought on the lithe waist of his companion to let him reach closer. The scene before him unfolding like an enthralling painting. A brazen picture of seduction.

Thranduil finds it hard to deny that in that moment, the two handsome figures together certainly makes a gorgeous vision. An opinion he is certain that his elves share, if their watchful eyes filled with desire and want are anything to go by. Which makes him wonder if there is something…more… between the two highest ranking officials of Elrond’s staff?

So deep in his thoughts, the sindar king did not notice that Glorfindel has long left Erestor’s side, and approaches the Elvenking’s throne. The Chief Councillor left alone in a discussion with some young and determined scholars who were finally brave enough to seek out the lore master.

“King Thranduil, long it has been, why not spare this old friend a dance?” Glorfindel asks with a bright grin and a hand to the Elvenking.

“Why not?” Thranduil then accepts the hand and the invitation. The melody is from a romantic ballad from the silvan elves, but Glorfindel is familiar to the simple four step dance that accompanies it.

"I am pleased to see you are doing well." Glorfindel smiles brightly as they make some smooth twirls. Each spin and step, the King and Lord does not miss a beat, as the others make way for them on the dance floor.

"Aye. I am well enough even with the troubles, old friend. Though your presence is dearly missed." Thranduil gives a comfortable smirk, shoulders relaxed and at ease in company of an old acquaintance.

"We have met Legolas too. Such a delightful ellon! He does Eryn Galen credit and is a fine prince."

"He is my pride and joy. But my ion still has such to learn."

Glorfindel laughs, full and dazzling. Thranduil gives a soft shake of his head, thinking of his young son, who in his opinion, is still inexperienced with the world. Both elves enjoying their dance and each other's company. Before Glorfindel carefully dips his head closer to the King's ear.

“Though I do find myself wary of one of your Lords' associations, your Majesty. There is talk that he has his own opinions regarding the new alliances with Dale and Erebor. Especially with his family’s trading business fairing poorly with the loss of his daughter’s marriage.” Glorfindel whispers before he nonchalantly leans back, focused instead on leading the dance.

“Oh? How does a Captain of Imladris come to be aware of such a thing? Or… is it someone else’s words you convey?” Thranduil replies coolly, keeping a straight face as he chooses his words carefully. If it were anyone else, Thranduil would have tossed them into the dungeons for their insolence without a second thought. However, such heavy words from the Emissary has piqued the King's interest.

“Well, word has it that the lands of Dorwinion are having trouble lately, her workers are growing displeased with their guilds. The lands of Rhun are stirring. Do what you will with this information.”

“Information from a rather invested source it seems, almost strangely so. One must wonder the motives for such measures taken to bring this forth to me.”

Glorfindel casts a calculated gaze towards Thranduil, who feels the grip around his own hand tighten in reflex. The two gauging the other's intent as they spin slowly around another couple.

"Your caution does you credit, especially for a ruler of a kingdom. But I hope your Majesty remembers that I, too, am an advisor of several elven realms by my own merit," Glorfindel returns flatly as the music slows. "All I can say, as a friend, who so happens to be an old councillor, is that there is wisdom in history. While knowing when to put aside the differences held, may be a higher path."

You will also do well to not judge the depth of still waters in a glade by its surface. For even reflections are ever-changing.

Thranduil stares at Glorfindel as the mighty Lord's voice rings in his mind. In that moment, the sindar king feels that he had caught a glimpse of something terrifying in those devastatingly beautiful eyes.

Haunting eyes. That have seen cruel ice and relentless fire. Of a kingdom sealed away. Of crumbling walls, of regrets and of death.

It is then, Thranduil Oropherion sees. Nothing can escape Arda Marred. Not Gondolin. Not Doriath. Not even them, made immortal and unchanging in Eru's Song.

The King releases a lofty sigh filled with weariness and resignation.

“Very well, I shall give your words some consideration, my old friend.” 

As the crowd breaks into an applause for the minstrels, the bards slowly prepare for their next performance. In that brief intermission, Erestor approaches the two on the dance floor in elegant and careful strides, coming up next to Glorfindel quietly with a hand on the muscular back. Azure eyes glazed in vestiges of memories turn towards the ellon in response.

“Laure? It is almost time.”

“...Indeed.” Glorfindel suddenly becomes distant once more before turning to the Elvenking with a small smile. "Please excuse us your Majesty. For we wish to retire now, it has been a long day after all.”

Thranduil blinks and is taken by surprise by the request. For it is not even midnight and many are still enjoying the celebrations. Well, apart from those heading away to tumble in the cover of the night.

“The night is early yet?”

“Yes, but old elves such as us need our rest.” Glorfindel laughs, albeit a hollow one. While Erestor turn slightly to bestow a glare at the warrior’s light hearted remark.

Even if that large hand resting low on the Chief Councillor’s back is making Thranduil think otherwise.

How did this come to pass? He wonders.Truly something he cannot even fathom. A kin-slayer and a beloved hero twice-born by the grace of the valar together?...What is this? A romance novella?

Yet from another tempting perspective from one who enjoys the pleasures of Life and its beauties, it is rather alluring. Just based on this evening alone, Thranduil has to begrudgingly admit how seductive the idea of these two beautiful and strong ellyn may be. Hidden away in privacy of a room amongst silken sheets, lost in passionate lust. An arousing vision it must make!

Afterall, there are elves who partake in the pleasures of the flesh without bonding. Especially more so in recent times. Such wandering thoughts began to get him feeling like a curious youngling, eager and warm under his many layered robes.

Although it is still quite possible the couple, who are far older, are much more old fashioned. Maybe already engaged considering their daring behaviour, even with the absence of rings.

“I suppose if you both must. Though before you leave, this King cannot help but wonder if I should expect a wedding invitation in the near future, so I may send congratulatory gifts along to Imladris?”

The temperature drops dramatically, the air morphing into an awkward silence, creating a contrast to the warmth and lively sounds that confines them.

The pair share a strange look at the other, almost as if sharing a private conversation over Osanwe, before turning back quietly to Thranduil. Their deep gaze turning this conversation into something rather uncomfortable. Where it was even longer before Erestor bows in response.

“We are not engaged, your Majesty. But we do thank you for the kind thought and consideration.”

Oh.

Could have fooled him, really.

“I…see. I’m afraid I have improperly assumed things so. Go on. I wish you both a pleasant rest.” 

"Thank you. We bid your Majesty, a good night."

Glorfindel and Erestor bows and swiftly excuses themselves from even more awkwardness, with Thranduil’s lingering gaze watching them leave. The Councilor's words were delivered so smoothly and simply, Thranduil would have shaken off his skepticism and taken it at face value.

That is, if he did not spy a slender hand coming to rest under Glorfindel’s arm as they leave beyond the darkened corridors, in the cover of shadows, away from the crowd.

---

Later, Thranduil takes a walk around his palace, enjoying the tranquility and quiet of his domain. With most of the kingdom either drunk or still with company, far from prying eyes. The sindar lets his feet carry him aimlessly though dim and silent pathways.

He has seen the world, yet times like these, he feels like he is but a small note in the grand scheme of things of Eru Iluvatar.

It is in his wandering, he finds that he is not the only one awake in this solemn hour.

Far amongst the endless trees in a lone pavilion, Glorfindel stands in silent vigil with Erestor by his side. Their hands clasped together, a shadow and a dream. As Arien's light fills the forest, so does the voice of the Lord of old. A deep tenor full of hope and sorrow. The last Lord of Gondolin this side of the sea, singing an ancient ode to the dawn and to the light of summer.

When the songs end, Erestor lets the tired Glorfindel lean against his side. The weary ellon resting his cheek against Erestor’s head, watching the light of the new morn bursting though the emerald canopies overhead. Until Erestor pulls them to face one another, their foreheads touching in silence. As if nothing mattered in Arda but the one who stood before them. With a gentle hand and a tug of the taller elf’s face, Erestor lays a soft kiss on his weary companion’s forehead.

With a delighted hum and a deep breath, Glorfindel bends down to bring Erestor fully into his arms, burying his face into those long dark tresses. The dark haired elf silently acquiesces, wrapping his arms around the warrior in an embrace, slender hands caressing that muscular back and luxurious golden curls.

Though as the ellon did, he slowly turns his dark gaze to where the King hidden beyond the leaves. Wild eyes of unbridled storms meeting his own.

Ah.

Thranduil resists the urge to give an undignified snort at the realisation. Where he stops himself from rolling his eyes at the ridiculousness of the situation.

The last firedrake may be no more, but here exists a dark dragon hoarding his gold.

With narrowed eyes in response and a final fleeting glance at the duo, the King leaves. His robes swirling without a whisper behind as he returns to the royal chambers with the gentle summer breeze in his wake. Away from the utterly absurd sensibilities of two ancient elves.

Fools.

---

A/N: They are literally on a working holiday, thats what this is. Thranduil really is like a junior smitten with a senior, and later realising his seniors both are just dumb. I just wanted try to write how thranduil somewhat reconcile with whatever happened during the last alliance and the other elven leaders.

Earlier in Imladris also be like-

Deputies to the soldiers of Imladris: Alright ya'all, we need some to go with our esteemed leaders on their couple trip, all expenses covered! Draw straws or volunteer, you choose!

Also, fun fact, very early on, this was supposed to be part of the Fire & Stone AU but it has obviously changed to canon timeline because 5 & 6 would be... :) :) :)

Thranduil is a menace to write and ignore any possible politics and plotholes please, my brain is not functioning anymore for this chapter that is all over the place.Not the best i admit, but writing and rambling keeps me sane.

(Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4)(Part 5) (Part 6)

[reflections-in-a-critical-eye]

Hi M, how are you? Coming after the high of Shogun's yesterday's win at the Emmy's made me wonder if you have a favourite historical movie or tv show that is underrated or in the category more-people-should-watch-this? Hopefully you indulge in this type of movie. 😊

For example, for me, one such movie is "Master and Commander: The Far side of the World" :brilliant ensemble cast all across the board, good chemistry between the main leads, engaging story, very good soundtrack, fx that still hold, 99% hystorically accurate 😂 but despite this not many have heard or watched this movie.

Have a nice day!

P.S. can't believe that tomorrow the last episode of AYS will air 😭.

Hi @shimako! Sorry for answering your question late, but I postponed it because I kept trying to think of a list. And honestly, I saw the words historical drama and forgot the underrated part so this is a bit of a disaster, but I'll make it work. Let's just say this is an incomplete list of tv shows that had an impact on me at the time and ages that I had when I watched them. And you'll see that I barely remember the plot, but I sort of know how I felt.

1. Rome

Is this underrated? Hell no! But perhaps in today's age of tv, a lot of people have forgotten about that show. Only two seasons, but it was among the first batch of prestige tv in the middle of the 2000s. I liked it so much that it made go to the bookstore and buy a book about Caesar. If I went through my Egypt phase in middle school, then my Ancient Rome period came in high school.

2. The Borgias

At the time of its runtime, I think it was pretty big. Although I don't think it won many awards. I also remember it being used as an example on scholarly papers about Hollywood using Eastern and Central European studios because of cheap labor and good locations. Budapest and Prague can replace Florence, lol.

The Borgias was naughty. And it had Jeremy Irons who is a fantastic actor in my opinion. Eventually they actually leaned heavily into the siblings relationship which I thought was daring. They went there 👀. And the costumes were so beautiful!.

3. The Tudors

I remember this show through the eyes of a 13-14 year old that developed a massive crush on the actor portraying Henry the VIII. This was like the rock'n'roll version of the story. And it was sexy. A bit over the top. A stepping stone for some actors that would become a lot more famous in the years to come. I think it was on HBO so probably not underrated at the time, but mostly forgotten nowadays.

4. Versailles

I can't remember if it's French or they talk in English. But it was lots of fun. And really gay. They didn't stay away from that. That's all I remember, but give it a try.

5. Taboo

This is that show with a really brooding Tom Hardy who remains like that throughout the story. But if you're interested in 1800s London and England's imperialist plan and its effects on colonized territories, this might be it.

6. Babylon Berlin

I don't know if this fits into the list, but it is a great portrayal of 1920s Berlin. A period in which artistic freedom and experimentation was at its height, but also juxtaposed with political unrest, creating this environment that would lay the ground for the rise of the fascist party. It's a german show, an HBO production and I like that it's not glamourized. You can see it in their clothes, their hygiene habits, their visible sweat and run down outfits they wear in clubs. It feels real.

7. Black Sails

I first heard of this when I wanted to watch more Toby Stephens movies/series but I almost stayed away because it was a Michael Bay production. Black Sails is so smart. At first, it might lure in the wrong audience, even based on the first trailer. It looks like a pirate show full of action sequences and machismo. And then you actually watch it and it flips that exact narrative. It is a direct critique of imperialism. It is also such a good case for any film and gender & queer studies analysis. But more than that, what really sealed the deal for me in what is considered a grade B series with grade B actors, is the meta-textual discourse on storytelling. It's about creating those pirate legends, of creating narratives to protect themselves against the empire. And all that is unfolded through brilliant lines of dialogue. It still remains a 10/10 tv show for me and the actual underrated one.

[thunderstomm]

Hot Wheels: Let’s Race - Cruise Mini-Redesign

Now that the new season of Hot Wheels: Let’s Race has been out for a few days, it felt like due time to add her into my old lineup I did earlier this year. (You can find those here!) Cruise very quickly became my new favourite character, I love that she poses an actual challenge and threat to the others, particularly Coop. I plan to make a proper post regarding my s2 thoughts, but I particularly enjoy that she is allowed to be a proper enemy for the protagonists. Unlike when Coop had a more intense rivalry with Axle, they aren’t in constant close proximity with Cruise, meaning they don’t have to feign any sort of politeness towards her. She is the perfect adversity for Coop, and I think her just being in the show really benefits his character and motive, and I hope to see them actually have a full conversation at some point, and for that to tie into Cruise’s thoughts about Rearview’s plans for if she wins the Ultimate Garage. She clearly likes racing, what’s to say she necessarily wants it to be destroyed? I guess only time will tell.

I designed two looks for Cruise- one is a redesign of her canon outfit, and the other is meant to match the racing uniforms I gave to the campers. Her canon racing suit is alright, but I do think it is a little monochromatic. Also, I don’t like that her leaderboard colour is purple and she has no purple whatsoever on her? So I made the base suit a dark purple instead of black, and made the lime tone a little more yellow in shade, to match Professor Rearview’s base suit. I like the stripe across the chest, clearly meant to mimic the tire tracks on her father’s suit, but I wanted to make that a little more clear. I also made the shape more akin to a lightning bolt, as a sort of opposition to the hot wheels campers wearing flames. And I added a little more detail, such as pockets and seams, for good measure.

When it comes to the question of her being redeemed, I am split. I would like to see them redeem her, I think it would make sense as a character progression for her to open up to the campers (or at least, Coop, since they’re interacting the most and there is emphasis on their dynamic) and betray her father in the end, but we also haven’t seen much from her yet indicating that she WANTS to switch alignments. Season 3 could easily change this, I’m excited to see, and honestly would love to see her get worse just as much as I’d love to see her get better. I have two theories regarding possible endings where a redemption does happen for her, which will be in my s2 thoughts post. Nonetheless, I wanted to design a camper-style racing suit for her. It’s identical to the other six in terms of design and pattern, with a flame print, and where the pockets, seams and details are. It’s in purple, since that’s her colour on the leaderboard. I kept the green as a secondary colour, thank goodness green and purple look good together. Her racer number is 07, since she would join late, and the others were assigned their numbers via the first level of the camp and where they placed. She probably wouldn’t like it, but everyone is well aware her skill outclasses the little number on her suit. I also thought about possibly changing her hair colour for the switch, but I didn’t want to give her a natural hair colour (I love characters with dyed hair)’ and making it all purple brought back the monochrome problem in the opposite direction. Maybe she’d have different coloured streaks or tips? For now, I have kept it green.

Like the other designs, I’ve included a few headcanons regarding the character! I’ve seen people actually be named Cruise before, so I don’t have any issue seeing such as her legal first name. Her surname is (obviously) Rearview, pointing clear relation to her dad, Professor Rearview. I know someone will argue that “Rearview” is meant to be his first name, considering they all have car part names, but the structure of his title and name leads me to lean more towards it being a surname? Even if we do end up seeing a flashback and they refer to him as just “Rearview”, it doesn’t invalidate it, as plenty of people go by their surnames. Long story short, her full name is Cruise Rearview. Cruise is 12 years old, and is the same age as Coop, Mac and Brights. Cruise uses she/her pronouns, and is 4’10” tall.

Thank you for reading my mini-ramble all of the way !! Feel free to ask any questions about this design, or about more of my HCs regarding her, or any other characters. I’ve been having a lot of fun with these !! Proper s2 thoughts post coming soon, I promise !! 💚💜

[stealerofthe2ndbraincell]

ask and you shall receive: top 5 inside n9 episodes please!

Thank you!!! I had so much fun thinking this up.

This kind of involves more my top 5 favourites then the top 5 best, cause there are some episodes that I think are genuinely excellent and some of the best of all time, but that I wouldn't call a favourite because I often have a really hard time rewatching them (e.g. Wise Owl<333 which I absolutely adore).

5. How Do You Plead

God it was difficult to pick between this and two others for this slot, but I think I'm happy with my decision. Up until Steve appears as the LITERAL Devil, it really feels like a two act between Urban and Webster and the dynamic is written so well. Their dialogue flows well, Reece and Jacobi are excellent in this and the little fake court get up is one of my favourite bits in the whole show.

Urban is utterly fascinating and my favourite fella here but I always feel like slightly out of depth figuring him out. It's superb.

THE LIGHTING DIRECTION IS INSANE ON THIS and I love it. The shift is done so subtly and so well. This and Mother's Ruin are some of my favourite examples of night time scenes that are still kept realistically dark but also still very visually interesting. That whole turquoise (?) hue near the end is perfect.

Also Steve as the literal Devil cannot be mentioned enough. Excellent.

4. Diddle Diddle Dumpling

This is one I always really liked, but only ended up loving when I was showing a friend the show for the first time. It became their favourite so quickly and being able to watch it with them and hear them talk about it really made me reflect on it and holy shit it's excellent.

David's spiral is so well done, so well paced and builds to such a devastating conclusion.

I'm a sucker for symmetry irl and this episode delivers so hard on that for such good thematic reasons.

Everything about this one feels like it's a decision that's been laid out with such care and thought with the careful use of Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" really tying the atmosphere together, if that makes sense.

3. The Last Weekend

Despite how much I've talked about this episode before, it's really hard, for some reason, to articulate why I love it as much as I do.

The rewatch value of it is insane and the twist really recontextualises practically every interaction. I love the character writing so much and honestly Chas is one of my favourite written characters in the whole series.

The 5 stages of grief are included very tastefully in my opinion with the part of Mollie deconstructing really prepping you (imo) for that incoming twist and for who or where the stages are applicable for. Elements such as that, the lack of "I love you" reciprocation, the constant bug shots etc. feel like they're so in your face obvious on rewatch, but they really slip by so well and I have to applaud that.

Finally, the ending is fucking visceral and I don't think I need to hark on how excellently acted that was for both.

2. Zanzibar

I love me some Shakespeare.

I feel like a sort of Shakespeare pastiche like this could easily come across as pretentious or boring, and this script refuses to be either of those at every opportunity.

To me, this is probably the most charming episode of the show, and it's so self-aware of what it is, which only makes it better. It takes itself just about seriously enough to be entertaining and to throw these more ridiculous of tropes from that period in with the reckless abandon it needs.

The set design in it is also really well done. It feels both taken straight out of some theatre production and close to a typical posh hotel environment.

It's also a lot more raunchier than I remembered it being. That piss sublot (?) was nuts.

Also Henry is so <3333

Cold Comfort

This is one of the earliest episodes I tend to introduce people with both because I think it's a great episode to introduce some very consistently good elements of the show as a whole and so I can yap about it as soon as possible. I have rewatched this one so many times, and I lost count so long ago.

The method of filming is absolutely excellent, just generally and for that setting specifically. For example, I think that kind of cold and objective forward-facing camera really helps establish Andy's lack of preparedness, and it's an underrated Steve performance all around, imo.

George is also probably my original favourite character because, GOD there's so much going on with him and they peel back just enough that it's almost satisfying but you're still left with a lot to chew on. I am so not normal about him. I need to put him in one of those bug cages kids use to observe butterfly metamorphosis.

Also, a bonus silly reason is that it made me like the song Shine. I hated it for years after it was one of the songs I had practice constantly for a dreadful school play back in primary school and this episode finally broke my hatred of it. (Haven't stopped hating Fix You by Coldplay yet though lol).