#its embarassing to admit but i did a lot of things that were silly

[moth-writing-pit]

"Accidental Confession"

The Dialtown sheriff walked to the library and was a little surprised to see a closed sign and nary a silver-bell-headed man dozing on the counter. Taped just below the closed was a hand-written note reading; "Out for a bit but I'll return by tomorrow -- Chime Foghorn". Out? Chime wasn't known to be a wanderer, at least if you had asked Norm. He stood with his arms crossed as he pondered where Chime could possibly be. Mualed by water fowl? No, that would be Randy, Chime probably has a good chance against a swan. Admiring the zoo? No, Chime gets visibly uncomfortable in the zoo and wouldn't stay long.

"Norm sir? You okay dude?" A soft voice interrupted his pondering. Norm turned to see Oliver and after a moment he gave a slight nod.

"I'm fine pardner. Jus' wonderin'," Norm responded, his eyes flicking back to the note on the library door.

"About?"

"Foghorn. He ain't home," Norm's mind started running scenarios in which something happened to Chime. Oliver's string-thin tail flicked, sending the little golden bell on the end jingling, the fezzed man did that a lot even when he wasn't thinking.

"You're right, he's not. No idea where he is though. What for Norm, sir?"

Norm gave Oliver a quick n easy excuse about making sure Chime was doing alright as both a citzen and business owner in Dialtown. He let a sigh of relief as Oliver bought it with little question and went on his merry way. Now to find Chime.

♡♡♡

Norm was walking around Dialtown for about three hours when he took a seat on an admittedly quite vile smelling park bench to rest a momemt. He then heard what sounded like .. music? A string instrument? He jumped to his feet and started toward the sound. Norm slowly crept closer to the soft music until he found himself before thick and thorned bramble tangles and the music humming out somewhere behind it.

"Nope, not that either. I can hear in my head so why is it so hard to figure out the actual cords to it?" A familiar voice rang out softly to himself. Norm curiously wealsed himself through the bramble tangles and sure enough on a ledge overlooking the beach was Chime sitting alone with a notebook and some kind of banjo-y-guitar thing?

"Foghorn?"

"HOLY- Um uhh Sh-Sheriff, ah um h-hello. W-what are you doing here?" Chime asks, nervously trying to shake being startled from his system.

"I was lookin' fer you and I heard music. It sounded lovely.." He said honestly, sitting down beside the bell-headed man.

"Sorry, you were looking for me? What for?"

"I.. uhm... Its a little silly"

"Silly? You? Not two words that often pair" His tone was lighthearted and he clearly meant no harm. Plus the comment did pry a chuckle from the stotic sheriff.

"Alright alright. The reas'n I was lookin' fer you is because I wanted ta gave ya somethin'. Somethin' special" Norm could feel heat rising to his cheeks as he clutched the folded paper in his pocket tighter. His hands felt grimy with sweat.

Chime tilted his head and without thinking leaned closer to Norm. His string-thin tail swayed gently behind him, the cowbell on the end ringing out softly.

"A gift for me? Comepletely unnecessary but you've got me hooked"

Norm swallowed and pulled the folded paper from his pocket and delicately slipped it into Chime's hand. He watched nervously as Chime unfolded it and gazed upon its contents. Several heartbeats passed until finally Chime chuckles. An endeared chuckle.

Inside the paper was a pen drawing of the two men lovingly tangled in eaxh otger's enbrace accompanied by the words "Husbands with hope & luck" scralled across the top. Norm saw the unfolded paper and with a wave of hot embarassment he realized he'd grabbed the wrong paper this morning. Now Chime knew Norm was more fond of the bell-headed man than he'd ever admit aloud.

"Th-that ain't fer yer eyes! I made a mistake, ferget whatcha saw-" Norm frantically said, nearly leaping onto Chime to grab the paper back. Chime laughed warmly and kept the paper out of reach.

"I like this gift, I think I outta frame it when I get home"

[terpsichore-of-hesiod]

Saturday, November 26 ~~ Final Labour

well, it is the american pastime

~it’s a twilight au baby. honestly its just like a shot for shot rewrite of the best scene in cinematic history it’s not even vaguely clever and im not sorry about it ~no triggers other than my poor knowledge of baseball and this being mega cringe and out of character ~featuring a few old friends...

“Wait, wait– where are you going? Get back here.”

Ella paused with her hand on the door, and half-turned, looking back at her father. Wilis had his hands on his hips, eyebrows arched. Ella had really been hoping to sneak out undiscovered, but no such luck. 

“What, you’re get to meet his parents but he doesn’t get to meet yours?” It was a rhetorical question, so Ella waited for the rest. “Bring him inside.”

“Alright,” Ella acquiesced with little fight, opening the door just a sliver so that she could slip outside into the chilly February air. Kristoff was already out of the car and heading up the path, leaving his ridiculously big and expensive car by the curb to meet her halfway. “He wants to meet you,” Ella informed him, smiling softly when Kristoff pressed a chaste kiss to her cheek.

“I know,” Kristoff nodded. He dropped his voice, and smiled in a way that reflected the little in-joke they were both in on. “I heard.”

He walked a step ahead of her back up the pavement, hopping up the porch and holding the door open for her. 

“This is the infamous Kristoff?” Willis asked, still in the exact same stance Ella had left him in. She felt her cheeks heat, automatically embarassed the way only a teenager could be by their parent. For some unknown reason, she didn't want Kristoff to know that she had talked about him, even though he probably already knew. Like she was capable of talking about anything else - he probably knew that, too.

"Yes, sir," Kristoff nodded. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you - Ella talks about you a lot."

Her father's eyes flicked over to her, over Kristoff's shoulder. Ella smiled, raising her shoulders in a shrug. She did talk about Wilis, that was true. He was her dad, after all. Wilis looked back at Kristoff, his eyes narrowing.

"And what are the two of you going to be out doing this afternoon?" He asked.

"Me and my family are going out to play a game of baseball, actually - I thought Ella could join us."

Wilis snorted, which felt a little mean - Ella wasn't the most coordinated by any means, but she thought that even she could play a game of baseball. Maybe not against a bunch of vampires, but Wilis didn't know their true nature, did he?

"You're going to get Ella to play sports?"

Kristoff smiled. "She might be more of a spectator." He admitted, like he and Wilis were having some kind of little inside joke. Ella was glad they were getting along, but she wasn't sure she wanted them getting too pally - she sidled her way in between the two of them, reaching up to press a kiss to her father's cheek.

"We won't be out late." She promised, stepping back and reaching for Kristoff's hand. Kristoff gave it a surreptitious squeeze.

"Ten o'clock." Wilis grumbled, looking between the two of them. His gaze settled on Kristoff. "And not a second after."

"We'll be right on time." Kristoff promised, giving Wilis one last smile before Ella led him away.

They took Kristoff's car out through Enchantra, turning off at a point that seemed to come out of nowhere. Maybe it was a good thing they'd taken the new, shiny car - Ella's little Ford Fiesta never would have made it over the rough terrain that had her almost bouncing around in her seat. She had no idea how Kristoff knew where he was going, but he seemed entirely unperturbed as they drove through the thicket.

"You're worried," He said, glancing over at her. Ella wished he wouldn't, though she knew it was silly. He had vampire reflexes, he would know if they were going to crash into a tree. And yet, Ella still wished he'd keep his eyes on the road, or lack thereof.

"Who says?" She deflected. Not an outright lie, but she didn't want to admit it, either. 

Kristoff's hand reached across the centre console, his skin a flash of cold against her own. Her gave her hand another gentle squeeze. "You've already met them once. They liked you. Remember?"

"Hera does not like me."

"Hera's jealous of you." Kristoff gave her a wry smile.

Ella huffed softly, turning her gaze out of the window. The blur of greenery past it made her feel vaguely sick, but it was better than looking at Kristoff whilst her humoured her. "Hera is not jealous of me. What could I possibly have that she doesn't? She's beautiful, and she's confident, and she's--"

"--kind of a bi--"

"Kristoff." Ella looked back over at him, levelling him with a look. 

"I'm just saying," Kristoff looked at her for longer than Ella would've liked. "They all love you. Bianca was the one who told me to invite you today, anyway."

Ella softened slightly. "She did?"

Kristoff nodded, the car coming to a gentle stop as they broke through the trees and into a clearing. He parked up next to a car that Ella recognised from the school car park: it was Terpsichore's Wrangler, splattered with mud from what was presumably an even bumpier ride than the one Ella had just been on. She doubted Cora would hold back the way Kristoff had on the speed.

They approached the group as they were setting up over in the clearing. Bianca was the first to embrace her, ambling up to her at a speed that was almost human - something Ella was sure was just for her benefit. She smiled, pressing a kiss to Ella's cheek. "We're glad you could make it."

Over her shoulder, Hera glowered. 

"Who's team you on, Ella?" Cora asked with a grin.

"Oh, I'm not-- I'm not playing. I can barely keep up with human sports, so--"

"We need an umpire." Bianca supplied, offering her a way out. Ella, unbelievably grateful to not have to do anything too athletic, gave a nod. "Come on, you can stick with me for now."

"Call them as you see them, Bella," Félix encouraged, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder, his smile just as reassuring. "We've got a few cheaters amongst us."

"I don't cheat!" Cora insisted, but the shove she gave Félix was more playful than upset. "Just for that we're going head to head old man. I'm taking Hera-- and Huey."

"Huey won't play against Marie." Hera said, rolling her eyes. 

Whilst they squabbled about teams, Ella looked at Bianca. "Is this really the best weather for outdoor sports?"

The sky was grey, clouds hanging low over Enchantra. There was a chill in the air, a dampness that suggested rain was fast approaching and on the horizon thick purple storm clouds brewed, waiting to cast the clearing in darkness. 

"This is perfect outdoor sports weather - if you're a vampire." Bianca assured her. "You'll see."

There was a low rumble of thunder; it sounded distant for now, but Ella had a feeling that would change. Marie took her place, prancing into the middle of the square they had created. "Storm's starting - places, people!"

Kristoff pressed a hand to her cheek, drawing Ella's attention. "Just stick with Bianca," He told her softly, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "And don't let Cora cheat."

"I don't cheat! You're going down, Kristoff."

Kristoff grinned, and Ella shooed him away, off to take his place in the outfield. The game itself was mostly a blur - Ella did her best to call them like she saw them, just as Félix had asked her to, but sometimes it was pretty hard to see anything at all until the dust had settled. The storm clouds were gathering closer too, or at least they seemed to be. Ella couldn't tell if the thunder was rumbling closer or not, masked as it was by the crack of the ball connecting with the bat in Hera's hands before she sprinted away, a streak of auburn hair and pale skin, starkly contrasted against the dense green of the treeline behind them.

And though she really, really didn't want to do it, given that Hera definitely hated her for reasons Ella couldn't fathom, when the ball landed back in Bianca's hands, Ella knew she had to do it. "You're out," She said, lips pursed, hoping Hera would at least be a good sport about it--

Hera bared her teeth for a moment, a flash of canines before she pushed past Ella, knocking her shoulder into Ella's. Ella glanced at Bianca; Bianca gave her an apologetic look, and gestured for Huey to step up to the plate. 

She knew she should be more focused, but it was hard not to get caught up watching Marie as she brought her arm back for the pitch. It shouldn't have been surprising, the amount of force she could put behind the ball, but Marie was just so... unassuming. Lithe and dainty and delicate - but Ella could almost feel the reverbrations from the ball as it made contact with the bat in Huey's hand, the kinetic force from the two of them connecting enough to push Ella's hair back away from her face. And Huey was quick, but not as quick as Kristoff - the ball was brought back before Huey could get past second base. They shouted something at each other, words exchanged that made the two of them laugh, the rest of the family laughing as well, but not Ella. Her regular human ears weren't sensitive enough to pick up on their voices of the din of the approaching thunder.

Which was probably why she didn't notice when things went quiet, either. The clouds still crashed above them, drawing Ella's attention as Félix stepped to the plate, but just as Marie drew her arm back, she stopped. A blankness entered her eyes that Ella had come to know well - a vision. She was seeing something. 

Ella looked quickly to Kristoff, his eyes focused on the back of Marie's head. Before she had even registered it he was by her side, pulling her into his chest in a way that gave her the distinct feeling of being shielded from something.

"What is it?" Félix asked, turning first to Kristoff, then to Marie. 

"Someone's coming." Marie said, loud enough this time for Bella to hear it.

"They picked up our voices," Kristoff explained. 

"And they're coming back?" Félix asked, his voice low, concerned. There was a crease to his brow that Ella hadn't seen before now. 

"No," Marie shook her head. The rest of the family had gathered, crowding around the plate, huddling Kristoff and Ella in the centre, out of the way. "Just one. The--"

"The hunter." Kristoff said quietly. Cora muttered a curse word under her breath.

"So get her out of here." Hera said, looking between Kristoff and Félix, barely glancing over Ella. "Put her in the car and go, we can stall."

"No - he'll smell the scent and he'll go right after her." Marie countered. 

Kristoff turned, looking at Ella. He shrugged out of his coat, wrapping it around her shoulders, shifting her hair so it covered her neck. "This should help--" Hera snorted softly, but Kristoff ignored her. "Just stay behind me. Don't speak. Okay?"

Ella looked between them, panic rising in her throat. She tried to force it down, knowing the hummingbird beat of her heart would only give her away, but she couldn't make it settle. She clutches Kristoff's hand, half-shielded behind his shoulder. She kept her eyes down, too - she didn't want the clear blue of them to give her away too easily. 

She felt rather than saw the others turn, bodies twisting and heads turning to the opposite edge of the clearing. It was a man - older, fairly well-groomed, smiling easily as he approached as if this was totally normal. His speed gave him away first of course but as he got closer Ella noticed the bright crimson of his eyes. 

She turned her gaze away, back down to the grass beneath her feet. 

"Have I missed the game?" The stranger asked, scarlet eyes flickering across each of the other in turn, a crooked smile curling his lips. There was a cockiness to his voice that put Ella's teeth on edge. "Here I was hoping to join."

"We were just leaving, actually," Félix said, aicable but apologetic. 

"Really? But the storm's only just started - plenty of time for a few more innings, no?" The stranger stepped closer, again casting his gaze around the assembled coven. "The name's Clayton. Myself and a few friends were travelling through here a little while ago, we didn't realise another coven was in the area. A shame - we could've hunted together, perhaps. Or at least had a decent competition." 

He chuckled, and Félix laughed as well. Bianca, standing by his side, joined in with some gentle laughter - Kristoff was rigid by Ella's side, unmoving, staring at Clayton. 

"If you excuse us, we were just leaving," Félix said again, gesturing towards the cars. No one made a move to go just yet, all attention focused on Clayton. "Maybe another time, eh? If you're ever in the area again."

"Maybe." Clayton nodded. He went to turn away when the wind picked up, ruffling Ella's hair-- those crimson eyes landed on her, seemingly for the first time. He cocked his head, regarding her, and Ella felt Kristoff's grip on her tighten. "Rather rude of you, though, not to share your dinner."

Ella couldn't look away from him, fixed in place like a deer caught in oncoming headlights. She felt more than saw Marie, Huey and Cora, closing in on either side of her. Shifting to shield her, as best they could.

"She's with us." Bianca said simply, looking at Félix, who gave a single nod. Ella had never seen Félix look stern before - he was usually laughing, smiling, encouraging the joke, but not now. He held firm, waiting for Clayton to challenge them.

But Clayton simply smiled, looking back at Ella again. His expression worked its way under her skin and settled there - the sickly sweetness of that smile, the slyness to it. She couldn't read his thoughts, but Kristoff could, and Ella could see the sharp, hard line of his jaw. Whatever Clayton was thinking, it wasn't good.

"Strange pet if you ask me, but," He held his hands up in surrender, looking back to Félix and Bianca. "I'll leave you to... whatever it is you're planning on doing with her."

And with that he turned on his heel and left, a blur of motion until he had disappeared through the trees again. His exit was so quiet it was as if he hadn't been there at all. Ella realised she'd been holding her breath - she gasped, and Kristoff whirled around, holding her by her shoulders. 

"Get in the Jeep - go." He told her, urging her forward. 

"Kristoff, Terpsichore - get Ella out of here." Félix instructed. "Hera, Huey and I will follow him, make sure he does go. Bianca, Marie, you bring the other car back - keep an eye out for anything along the way. We'll regroup at the house, yes?"

"Why do I have to go?" Hera snapped, looking around. "She's nothing to do with me--"

"Hera." Kristoff ground out, turning away from where he was buckling Ella's seatbelt for her.

"She's family." Bianca reminded her gently. 

Hera looked at Ella for a long moment, jaw working as she ground her teeth. She looked at Félix and gave a resentful nod, following him and Huey off into the treeline, on Clayton's trail.

Cora drove, Kristoff sitting in the back with Ella. She felt sick to her stomach - something was wrong. She knew it was.

"He's coming after me, isn't he?"

Kristoff looked at her for a long moment, amber eyes unreadable before he said, "Yes. He's a hunter. He thinks there's something... special about you. Because of the way we protected you."

"There's nothing special about me." Ella murmured, fear settling in her chest, stealing the breath from her.

Kristoff reached for her hand, gripping it tightly. "Everything about you is special, Ella." He said it with such conviction that for a second, Ella believed it. "It's my fault you're in this mess. I'll get you of it. I promise. I swear - I won't let anything happen to you."

The Jeep crashed through the trees, back through Enchantra towards the secluded house hidden away in the forest. Ella dared to glance out the window, half expecting Clayton's face to grin back at her. She didn't know what they'd have to do to get her to safety, but she believed Kristoff. She knew he and his family would take care of her, as best they could.

[orange-purifier]

//I look at everyone with their batters having trauma from their missions and puppeteers

Meanwhile over here it's just

Sitting in zone 0:

'Hey Mich? Wanna try seeing if we can get flowers to grow in the zones?'

"Absolutely! ::D"

//note: all batters are valid and I love them in this essay I will-

[demomonic-murmurs]

Heaven [Shimizu Kiyoko × Reader]

Summary: You and Kiyoko come home from a Halloween party and fuck with all the love in the world.

Pair: Sub! Kiyoko × Dom! Reader

Tags: Established Relationship, NSFW, Sexual Content, Extreme Usage of Toys, Ropes, Size Kink, Breast Worship, Body Worship, Vaginal Penetration, Cervix Penetration, Some mild Role Playing at the beginning [angel/demon], slight Corruption Kink, pregnancy and lactation is mentioned like once, actually very soft and lots of love and long after care

Warnings: I write my smut like bad hentai doujinshi's, some parts are probably a bit unrealistic

Author's note: This is pure self indulgent filth. This exists to fulfill every kink of mine in existence. Enjoy.

As much as Kiyoko wanted to, she couldn't resist you. Not with that pleading gaze. She was stronger usually. Able to keep her composure, even when you tugged on her arm and steal a kiss when she turned her head. Maybe it was the alcohol in her system from the Halloween party you two had been earlier.

"Fine. I'll indulge you for today. You're so silly", she sighed, trying to sound disinterested. She was not. Disinterested that is. She was very much interested in what you were proposing to her. She just had a hard time admitting to it.

You smiled. You knew your girlfriend. You knew from the way she was clenching her thighs, earlier at the party around your leg as you guided her hips to grind into you and now in anticipation of what was coming next.

"Those are some big words coming from a tiny angel like you", you said, slipping into your role easily as you grabbed her chin and titled her head so she could meet your gaze.

Kiyoko swallowed audibly and her face flushed, the red contrasting beautifully against her pale skin and white halter dress. It was short, shorter than what she would normally wear, the flowy white barely reaching her knees. She had insisted to at least wearing a pantyhose underneath and really, who were you to complain. The halo sat on top of her head, secured by a thin hairband, finishing her look perfectly.

"What? Already at a loss for words? You wandered into my realm after all... and dressed like that nonetheless. Were you trying to seduce a demoness like myself?"

Kiyoko whimpered and shook her head, unable to meet your gaze. Whether her whole demeanor came from her actually playing her role very well or her just being meek and shy because she was horny (which was something that even now, she had trouble to admit whenever she was aroused), it turned you on.

"Oh really", you mused,"so you didn't come here with a purpose? Thats hard to believe when you're already filled with so much lust and yearning."

You let your other hand wander long her body, stopping to brush a thumb over her nipple, which was still obscured by her dress and that pesky bra of hers (it made you wish she'd wear them less, her nipples were already very sensitive as they are and the thought of clothes brushing against them planted a lot of unpure thoughts in your head), before finally reaching its destination, pulling up her dress so you could slip a hand underneath her skirt and brush your fingers alongside her clothed pussy. She was only wearing thing cotton panties underneath, which did little to nothing to hide her horny state, juices already having soaked the first laying and now working on completly drenching her pantyhose.

"That is very impure for an angel don't you think? You're not as innocent as you try to make yourself out to be. Poor baby probably doesn't even know what all of this means, do you now? So you came to us for help and really, who are we to deny you?"

Kiyoko squeaked when you gripped her thigh and slipped a hand under her back so you could pick her up and carry you to your bedroom. You let her drop onto the bed and crouched down to pull out your box with toys and other items you two had found yourselves using for your sexual explorations. She eyed the box, her gaze holding a gleam of excitement as you set it on the corner of your massive bed, before her eyes snapped back to you as you moved to sit between her legs, roughly forcing them apart.

"Have you ever touched yourself?", you asked her, hand gripping her jaw.

"No never why would I sin", she moaned out when one of your knees pressed against her crotch. Now she was really getting into her role and it excited you. It reminded you so much about the first time the two of you shared together, you were her very first everything. First partner, first kiss, first time mastrubating with her first orgasm following and lastly the first to have sex with her. You felt bad for liking that shy yet curious part of her so much, felt bad for how much it turned you on when she was writhing and pleasure, not knowing what it meant or why she felt it and just completely giving into the moment. Maybe it was because your girlfriend always had been composed and cool. And maybe you just wanted to see that slip a bit.

"Oh really? So this would be your first...?", you said and trailed off, leaning down to kiss her. She was already panting which made it easier for you to slip a tongue into her mouth and relish in the wet and lewd sounds the french kiss was creating, "that's so unbecoming of an angel. Such a lustful kiss. Aren't you supposed to be all about chastity?"

Her hazy gaze met yours and the string of saliva that had connected you prior snapped. You could only watch in delight as she darted her tongue out to lick it up. Kiyoko was toying with your patience and self control. You might have been the one in charge but that didn't change the fact that she had wrapped you around her little finger.

"Or maybe you know exactly what you're doing. You're a bold one aren't you, a wolf disgusing herself as a little sheep. Maybe this was a fantasy of yours, wandering into the demon realm just so you could hope for one of us to find you and defile you in every way imaginable. Would you like that?"

She nodded her head enthusiastically. You smirked.

"Great little angel."

You moved to open the box and pulled out a pair of scissors. You pushed the two triangle shaped pieces of fabric that were covering her chest between her breasts, to lazy to even bother undoing the knos that hold the dress together. Taking one of her brastraps, you cut through it and did the same with the other one before finalizing your decision of destroying her bra by cutting through the middle part to pull it off compeltly. Kiyoko weakly protested but it was only a cheap white bra she had brought for the occasion (black was her colour after all, though purple complemented her perfectly as well).

Now her breasts were free and you felt blessed for having a girlfriend with such big boobs because her bashful gaze didn't fit with her body that would put Aphrodite to shame. Your favourite part of her tits however, besides the sheer size of them where her nipples. She had always felt embarassed about them and didn't like anyone seeing them. You vividly remembered the first time she felt comfortable showing them to and how it hard it was for you to jump at her and fuck her right then and there.

The thing that had her made feel so uncomfortable with her nipples was the fact that they were inverted. Two horizontal lines with her actual nipple barely peaking out. You knew how bad she felt about them so you always ensured to make her feel extremely good about that particular part of herself (not that you'd ever leave her not thoroughly fucked and worshipped, what kind of girlfriend would you be if you wouldn't).

You leaned down and took one of her nipples into your mouth and began to suck on it while twisting the other one with your fingers. Luckily for her, her nipples were easily pulled out and luckily for you, it made her all the more sensitive. It made you remember one instance where you made her squirt just from playing with her breasts.

Kiyoko moaned and threw her head back as one of her nipples popped out and you switched, beginning to work on the other while your hand began to massage her perky boob. It made you wish to be able to draw just so you could create a hentai book featuring your erotic girlfriend and you as the main character.

"You're such a beautiful little angel. So wanton for all the things I can offer you. Not that I am complaining at all, you're quite frankly the most alluring thing that has ever been created. I don't often praise God but they really outdid themselves when they created you."

Kiyoko whimpered and arched her back to press her nipples a little closer to you and who were you really to complain. Her hips trashed as you began to litter her chest with lovebites and she let out a scream when you used your teeth to pull on one of her nipples. Suddenly her movement stilled and you knew exactly what that meant.

You gently let her sink back down, she already looked so fucked, before diverting your attention to her crotch, pushing uper her dress in the process. Where it had clung to her pussy, the dress was wet with her cum. It was nothing to be compared to her panties and pantyhose however, which where completly soaked and had become even more translucent than before and clung onto her cunt. Kiyoko must have shaved herself earlier today because it was just fabric against milky white skin. Maybe she had hoped for sex today.

You could feel yourself getting aroused at the thought of Kiyoko silently hoping for some action, or maybe she was perspetive enough when she showed of her outfit yesterday and could feel your lustful gaze on her. In any way, it was a hot thought.

While your girlfriend was still coming down from her high (you wondered if you made her squirt again and just hadn't seen it), you were by no means lazy and began to prep her for your next idea. You definitely wanted to see her face today, see the make up running down her cheeks when she was sobbing from pleasure and just get access to her wonderful breasts.

You thought about getting your leg spreader out but just prompted for getting some silky robe and tying them around her ankles and bedposts so that she couldn't close them again. You leaned over and grabbed a pillow to move under hips so you'd have an easier access to her cunnie.

Kiyoko had calmed by now, her breath coming out in longer huffs, curiously watching your every movement.

You grabbed her pantyhose, pulled it down and immediatly wished you could've recorded the sound it made. Your hand absent-mindedly searched for you trusty scissors again and cut through her panties so you could pull them off, which was harder than it sounded because they were clinging to her pussy so much.

Finally having acquired her underwear you met her gaze again. It was feverish and aroused. Her hands had found their way on her breasts as she weakly kneaded them.

"Open up angel", you said and you had never seen her mouth snap open that fast. You began to wring out her panties so her juices dribbled into her mouth and she could taste herself.

"Tongue out", she obeyed as well and moaned when pressed the crotch area of her panties against her tongue.

"Be a good little angel and clean them a bit will you?"

She didn't respond but was already using her hands to hold her panties to lick and suck at them. You watched in satsifcation before moving back down.

You contemplated about ripling her lantyhose right away but decided against it, pulling it back up, even higher than Kiyoko had so it was perfectly hugging her pussy.

You could perfectly see the outline of her pussy, her prominent little clit and the way her hole was already opened slightly, lusting for something to be inside of it. You wouldn't give her that satisfaction yet though.

Instead, you grabbed a massager and turned it on to focus on her clit first. When the toy touched her, Kiyoko choked and let out a scream. She was still sensitive from just having cum a few minutes prior and you gave her no warning, especially now that you had given her a task she was eager to complete. While Kiyoko was moaning and trashing around, which was now a lot harder that her leg movement had been restricted, you thought about which toy you wanted to use on her next. You knew exactly what she wanted last, the biggest toy you had with some ridges along the sides of it. It was big enough to brush against her cervix and even penetrate it a bit, which was a feeling you quickly learned Kiyoko couldn't get enough of. But she wasn't wet enough yet, she needed to be stretched a lot more before she could even think about taking it.

You prompted to go for a toy first specifically designed to pleasure a women's g spot. You also pulled out two small nipple stimulators you could just turn on and put on her without having to move them yourself. Those two toys combined as well as the clit stimulation should be enough to make her cum quickly a few times, just so she would wet enough for you to finally get to the main part. You always prided yourself in your patience but Kiyoko always rendered you useless.

You stopped the stimulation on her clit which made her whine out in protest. She had been close again.

The disappointment was quickly overridden with lust again as she felt something pinch and and suck on her nipples. She weakly lifted her head and shifted her focus from her saliva covered underwear to the toys you had bestowed on her. Kiyoko smiled in a giddy fashion, excited what you'd do next. She adjusted the stimulators and pressed them closer against her nipple.

You smirked at that. You always loved that point where Kiyoko let go of all her fears and insecurities, only chasing after her own pleasure.

You resumed your stimulation of her clit and readied the other small, curved toy, slowly pushing it inside of her, her ruined white pantyhose sticking around it, you didn't bother ripping it just yet, you were enjoying far to much how Kiyoko reacted to the nylon brushing against her sensitive parts. Maybe you should go online and see if you could get a bra made out of similar material.

Kiyoko shuddered as you searched for her g spot with the toy and when you finally found it, the grip around the nipple toy tightened and she let out a high pitched moan. You looked up to meet her gaze, pleased to see that her make up was already being ruined by her tears and the drool escaping her mouth. The halo still resting on her head completed the whole look in a wonderfully perverse fashion. Your hand twitched to take another photo of her face like that for your personal collection but you already had to many of them. Your favourite one was when Kiyoko had dressed up as maid for your birthday.

You doubled your effort and continued rubbing around her g spot while the other hand used the massager to press harder against her clit. You moved your head closer to her cunt, memorized by the way the nylon along with the toy was moving in and out of her, the white material barely looking white and more so translucent. Kiyoko wearing any form of pantyhose or stockings should be forbidden really, she just looked so effortlessly hot in them.

You could see her entrance tightening against the toy before she came, squirting all over your face. A tingling sensation shook through your body right into your core. Her cum felt warm on your face and she smelled good. Your ministrations only stopped momentarily to gather some of her cum that you couldn't reach with your mouth to lick it of. Then you continued, a lot rougher than before as her reactions were slowly dwindling away your self control. You wanted more of it, you were insatiable, Kiyoko was the only thing on your mind as you hungrily turned up the stimulation on her nipple and clit toy to the maximum.

Kiyoko was gone at point, just happily babbling nonsense while pressing the toys harder against her nipples. She was already so thoroughly fucked but she wanted more, she wanted her favourite thing, her favourite big dildo with the ridges in her far too tiny pussy, she wanted it to hit her cervix and split her in half.

She came four more times before you'd finally grant her wish. It was good that she had trained stamina and flexibility during her highschool days, everything was coming in handy now.

You removed the massager and g spot toy and when you moved up to the nipple stimulators, Kiyoko whined, hands trying to dive back after them, far to shaky to accomplish her goal so she just opted to immediatly go back to massaging her boobs with her hands.

You smiled at the adorable display, as much as Kiyoko hated her breasts, she couldn't deny that the feeling was absolutely amazing. You desperately hoped that maybe one day, when the two of you had finished university and would start your own family, she'd decide to become pregnant. The idea of her boobs being even bigger, swollen with milk and using a breast pump to release some of that tension seemed like something you would eagerly partake in, even though the way her normally hidden nipples were now fully erected were enough to be fuel for your wet dreams.

You watched her carefully as you brought out her favourite toy, the way her pupils dilated immediately, her legs thumping against the bed and her hands squeezing her breast just a tad bit to forceful.

"You know what to do my dirty little angel", you said and she nodded eagerly as you handed her the toy and she began licking it, covering it in her saliva. The way she nuzzled her head into the dildo and lapped it ferociously like it was an ice cream treat was almost comedic and adorable.

You smiled at her cute demeanor and began to rip her pantyhose, which had almost become a second skin over his pussy by now. Her scent hit you full force and you had to fight against the urge to start eating her out just to get that delicious taste of hers that you were addicted to. But you had to be strong.

Her cunt was puffy and swollen, still gaping, asking, beginning so sweetly to be filled. You leaned close to be able to smell her more and as your breath hit her pussy, she sharply and choked on the toy, her vagina clenching around nothing.

"I think you're ready my little angel", you murmured, stretching your head towards her so Kiyoko could hand you the the toy. She propped herself up on her elbows and watched impatiently how you teased her little whole with the big toy.

Then you began pushing inside her, slowly but steadily. Her hands gripped the sheets underneath her and she clenched her eyes shut, letting out an array of sweet moans that you were more than happy to hear them.

"You're taking my toy so well my slutty little angel. Its gonna fill you up so well my beloved. I know you're aching to be filled to the brim and don't worry, I will provide that for you", you murmured, the fingers of your other hand pinching her clit.

Kiyoko had gone back to toying with her breasts as she watched hazily how her greedy cunt swallowed more and more of the toy that shouldn't even be allowed to fit in the first place.

When the dildo was pushed about halfway in, you had to stop because her walls clenching up to cum again prevented you from going further. Kiyoko's body shook as she came undone for the seventh time this night. Maybe even eighth time, you were unsure since you weren't able to see the beginning very well.

She twitched when you began pushing into her again as soon as her walls allowed it.

"Already more than halfway done dear. You're doing so good great, taking me so well", you praised, relishing in the way her stomach slightly buldged from the blunt size forcing its way into her.

Kiyoko breathed heavily, her mind blank except a single thing, and that single thing was you.

When the dildo hit her cervix she let out a yelp. You gave her a few moments to adjust, rubbing comforting circles over her skin, from where the toy had entered way tracing its way up to her stomach, where you could feel the tip of it. She was completely bottomed out.

Kiyoko felt happy, the bubbly feeling making itself known through a satisfied smile on.

"Do you want me to start moving it my lovely?", you asked and she nodded weakly, her teary gaze focused your face for a second before snapping back down to watch the toy being pulled out and pushed back in. You pressed your unoccupied hand back onto her stomach, feeling immensely pleased that only you could fill her up like this.

"Faster please", she choked out and you complied enthusiastically.

The dildo was hitting every right spot for Kiyoko. A larger ridge kept scratching pleasantly against her g spot and she enjoyed the way she would feel when she clenched her walls around the little bumps. The toy shouldn't fit rationally, she knew that but through a mixture of you prepping her so well and her being more than willing to bear a little pain to get the reward of being filled to the brin made it fit. What she enjoyed most however, was the ridges hitting hitting the opening of her cervix which snugly welcomed the toy with a hug each time you pushed it in her to the hilt. It was teasing almost, telling her that if she just worked a little harder then maybe you two could get a toy that was even longer than the current one, one that could truly break into her womb and not just tease her with the thought of it.

Kiyoko could feel the very familiar feeling rising up in her stomach again, she would cum soon.

"Please", she sobbed, hand reaching out to yours, " so close. Faster harder please."

You grabbed her hand and intertwined your fingers with hers, other hand working to drill the toy in her exactly how your girlfriend wanted you to.

"Please" Kiyoko whined, her free hand coming to rest on her stomach, pushing down hard, "Give me a kiss, please, please, please-"

You leaned forward, and pressed a chaste kiss against her lips and pulled back the toy until only the tip was barely left inside before slamming into her, full force. Kiyoko screamed in ecstacy, her eyes rolling back in her head and her tongue sticking out, panting like a dog as she squirted for the third time tonight, painting the matching black leather outfit you had worn for your demon look in her cum.

You gently let Kiyoko's hand go to give her a moment of space. With the little power she had left she shakingly let it join her other hand, forming a heart right above her womb where the tip of the dildo had found its rightful place of being.

She was thoroughly fucked a happy smile on her face as she continued to stare into nothingness, still dazed from the intense orgasm she had.

You stood up from the bed and opened the door to your bathroom to let in the water in the tub. Kiyoko deserved a treat for how good she had been today. You loved that woman with all your hard.

When you came back into the bedroom, Kiyoko was still laying there, unmoving, though her breath had calmed significantly. You untied her legs first and then moved to pulling down her ruined pantyhose, rubbing her slightly red ankles she had gotten from pulling at the restraints. Afterwards, you continued by untying the knot on her neck that held her dress together and carefully pulled it over her head, tossing it to the side.

"Come on my lovely, you know I love the sight just as much as I do but you really need to wash up."

Kiyoko huffed in annoyance but nodded and allowed you to slowly pull out the toy. She always wanted you to do that last. The first time you two had tried it out, she had been fussy the next day, saying that she didn't want to loose the sensation so quickly. Her pussy was red from all the overstimulation and angrily clenched around nothing.

"Can you wrap your arms around my neck beloved?"

Kiyoko nodded and did as you asked, arms clinging to your neck.

"I feel empty", she slurred, "Want you to fill me again."

You chukled. "I think you had enough for today Miss "I-will-indulge-you-for-today"."

"Want something bigger the next time. Need it longer. Doesn't give the same satisfaction anymore."

You gulped. How had you gotten so lucky? A beautiful woman that wanted to be your girlfriend for reasons you couldn't understand, who you could take on planetarium dates and go to cute cafes with but also overstimulate at night with a big fat dildo? Maybe she really was an angel because she surely felt heaven send to you.

"We can look online if we can find something. Or go the store", you said, gently setting her down into the tub, turning off the water. She shivered.

"Yes please. Not girthier just longer. Also proper Shibari ropes. Want to try being tied up completely", Kiyoko explained, relaxing in the water.

You hummed and smiled.

"How have I gotten so lucky with such an adorable girlfriend? I feel so blessed", you commented, kissing her cheek.

She smiled wobbly up at you, there was that shy smile again that she always got on her face after making a request after the two of you had sex. That and after making out where the only two instances she felt not too embarassed admitting to her sexual desires.

She had always had strict parents and that combined with her insecurities left a stressed and repressed Kiyoko that needed to be eased into everything before feeling comfortable enough to suggest things herself. But you helped her to slowly figure herself out and understand what the things she liked were. Being split in half by a big dildo and having her nipples getting sucked on were the two main things she really enjoyed but being tied up was definitely up there.

In return she indulged you as well. She wore pantyhose and stockings a lot more often since the relationship had started years ago because she knew how much you loved how she looked in them. Or your obsession with her breasts and panties, the first one she secretly obsessed over as well and the second one mostly meaning that you wanted her to taste herself (sometimes, when she had to go somewhere for a few days, she would leave a pair of used for you just so you had something to masturbate to).

Kiyoko had always felt pressured by the people around her, comparing her to a goddess and worshipping the ground she walked on but... it was different with you. You didn't want her to be perfect. You wanted her to let herself go, be loud, be messy, be herself, unabashedly.

"Since its a special occasion I got you this", you said triumphantly, pulling out a small, batshaped bath bomb, "its supposed to smell like pumpkin!"

Kiyoko smiled. Another thing she loved about you. You were just as much yourself as you excepted her to be herself.

"Wouldn't a pumpkin have been the better shape to choose then?", she asked as she took the bath bomb, watching as it began to dissolve in the water.

You blinked before nodding. "You're so right my love. Maybe they wanted some variety."

"Maybe", Kiyoko hummed, moving a hand in the water to disperse and spread the bath bomb more. It was various shades of dark purple and dark blue hues.

"Okay imma clean up our bed discard your... clothes that didn't make it and put the ones that survived in the laundry. Then I will come back and wash your hair okay?"

Kiyoko merely nodded and watched you leave from the corner of her eye. She sank down deeper into the water, her hair floating on the surface. It sort of reminded her of seaweed like that.

Her body ached. She wasn't sure if she was able to walk the next day. She definitely wasn't able to now. Kiyoko looked down at her breasts. Her nipples had returned to their normal look and she sighed. She felt less insecure with you around but there was still a tiny voice in her head that told her how ugly it was. It was comforting, the way you had covered her breasts in love bites. You knew she was lacking confident, so you always made sure to pay special attention to them.

Kiyoko was pulled out of her thoughts when you came stumbling back into the bathroom trying to balance the used sheets before dumping them in the laundry basket. Then you left again, only to back seconds later, carrying the toys you had used on her and putting them into the sink.

She flushed a bit but didn't look away as you got out some mild soap and a wash cloth to begin cleaning them.

"Does it smell like pumpkin?"

"Sort of. Not natural pumpkin. More so... an artificial smell."

"I see", you hummed, scrubbing away at the dildo, "at least the colours fit you. I brought it when I was getting that one hair mask I was telling you about. The colours reminded me of you. Dark mysterious alluring. And it fit the season of course."

"You make it sound like you planned all this", Kiyoko giggled, softly. You were casualtity. "Hey says the woman who must have shaved this morning", you fake gasped, pointing the dildo at her, "You were totally hoping for this as well. You always play so hard to get."

"You got me. I did." You smiled, setting the last toy down into the sink, you'd just put them away later, and moved to sit behind her.

"Come on then my Aphrodite, let me wash thy hair. Would be a great time to try out that new hair mask I talked about."

Your fingers ran through her hair, softly massaging in first the shampoo before rinsing it out then moving onto the conditioner and rising that out as well.

"The hair mask has to stay in a little longer. But it smells like vanilla which is nice."

Kiyoko hummed and leaned her back against the wall of the tub to be closer to you. You moved her hair a bit before stopping and laughing out loud.

"Shimizu it looks like you have one of those gelled spiked hair styles like that."

Her reflection in the faucet looked ridiculous, causing her to roll her eyes.

"Please never become a punk. Actually do that if you want to. I support you. Oh though could you actually become a goth? Then I could call you my big tiddie goth girlfriend. Everyone would be even more jealous than they already are, you know with me dating one of the smartest girls in our university?"

Kiyoko liked listening to you ramble. She liked the tone of your voice as you went on and on about nothing. The first time she had asked you to continue talking after you had stopped, thinking that she was disinterested, you had bursted out in tears because no one had ever told you to continue talking.

After you had rinsed her hair out for a final time, she fully sat up to lean her head against your lap.

"I'm tired", she said, stifling a yawn. "No wonder", you responded, fingers tracing over her face, the shape of her eyebrows, nose, eyes and mouth, tapping her mole softly, "Today must have been exhausting for you. Come on lemme help you dry yourself off and get you your nightgown-"

"I don't want my nightgown", she said, yawning again, "Just give me a pair of panties and one of your shirts. I want to smell like you."

God, those innocent words hit you hard. 

“Ah yeah. Of course. My clothes. The clothes that belong to me. Yeah just... gimme a second.”

She watched as you scrambled out of the door, but not before grabbing the toys to put them away, shoulder hitting against the doorframe and snorted. You were a dork. How could you act all sexy and hot in one moment and then like a fumbling idiot in the next?

Kiyoko lifted herself out of the tub carefully, pulling the plug so the water could flow down the drain. Her legs were still shaky, she definitely wouldn't be able to walk tomorrow. She grabbed a towel and began to dry herself off. She would have to wait for you to return so she could comb her hair because the comb was on the opposite way of the room and she didn't exactly felt like crawling to it.

“Okay got you some clothes my love.”

“Thank you dear. Could you grab me my comb? I can't exactly... walk.”

Your face flushed and nodded, grabbing the item and handing it to her. It reminded you of a nymph, the way she was sitting on the edge of the bath tub, brushing her hair, not yet having put your clothes on. It was a testament of her trust in you, that she showed her body to you so casually, a body that she didn't really like and it made your heart swell with love.

“You were right. The hair masks makes your hair feel really soft. And it smells nice. Feel it”, she said and you moved closer, the sweet vanilla aroma drifting into your nose.

You smiled. “Glad I was able to assist milady. Do you need help pulling up your panties?”

She nodded and you held her waist, her legs trembling as she pulled them up. It was still a mind blowing concept to you, that you did this. Well not because of you necessarily, that was the dildos work but... it was something you did. Kiyoko sat back down to slip the shirt on, far too big for her petite body.

You grabbed some cleansing agent and spread it in the tub before using the shower head to wash it down.

“Come on my gallant knight in shining armor. Let your mighty steed carry you to bed.”

She giggled again, it was your favorite sound in the entire world  and wrapped her arms around your neck. Kiyoko turned off the light with her dangling foot so you didn't have to worry about it. You set her on the bed where she got the blanket ready for the two of you while you changed into a shirt and a pair of boxer shorts.

The bed creaked when you joined her, laying on your side, facing her. Now you had to yawn as well. She smiled and cupped your cheeks, kissing you sensually, inherently soft and filled with love.

Kiyoko cuddled close, tucking her head under your chin and intertwining your legs together.

“I love you Shimizu Kiyoko.”

“I love you too [Name] [Last Name].”

And the two of you really did with all your hearts.

[ozcarpin]

Technology, Magic, and Humanity

@ozqrowweek  Day 1 of OzQrow week!

“Well, that was a load of crap.”

“Mm, I’ll admit that the situation may not be exemplary. But I trust James’ judgement and Fria is still of the mind to be aware of what she’s agreeing to.”

“For now.”

The dark undertone of the gruff reply was not lost on Ozpin, nor were the narrowing of crimson eyes as shoulders were bunched and hands were shoved as deeply into scant pant pockets as they could go. 

Qrow had never been one to hide his feelings on a matter, expressive in his words and physicality alike. It made the man an effective opposite to the immortal who used those same things to hide his true feelings on most things. Or, at least tried to. As time had brought them closer over years and moments, Qrow had grown more and more effective at reading him. The statements behind his words, the concern beneath his optimism, and the insecurities buried deep in the pools of his outward confidence and the expectations that came with the title of ‘immortal wizard’. 

Stepping out into the cold, biting air of Atlas, Ozpin sucked in a deep breath, letting it pool into his lungs and wash away the stuffy warmth that had become cloying in the discomfort of the earlier conversation. As much as he’d put a nice coat of paint on it, he had to admit that things had just gotten a lot more complicated. While he trusted Fria completely (after all, the woman had commandingly held the mantle of the Winter Maiden since he’d been the King of Vale) things would undoubtedly get a little tricky if her mental facilities were indeed beginning to slip from her. They would need to find an arrangement that protected and respected all the vulnerable parties involved in the situation and after hours of debate, it really seemed like there would be no unanimously preferable option. 

Beside him, Qrow was still compressing his spine into a slouch impressive enough to remove about a quarter of his height, the man leering into the distance as the two of them meandered down the streets at random. They’d agreed to adjourn the (rapidly escalating) discussion for the evening and to continue it in the morning when they all had new eyes and clearer heads. To that end, Ozpin was thankful that his companion (as aggravated as he was) seemed to have opted to remain with him, rather than (literally) flying off to drown his anger at the nearest bar. As brash as Qrow could be at times, Oz was thankful to have his input in these discussions, more so in how easily the man could bark what they were all thinking when everyone else was unwilling to. 

“I hate it here.”

Golden hues shifted to once again regard his grumbling companion, following his eyes to a screen showcasing a muted advert for the newest line of Atlesian Knights. 

“Everything’s so damned cold an’ lifeless. CIty of Progress? City of robots is what it is.”

Oz knew his opinionated partner well enough to know that while Qrow undoubtedly did feel what he said, most of it was likely just projection given his sour mood. It would be easy enough to leave the statement where it was, even more to agree and let the other vent his frustrations but so often those healthy releases turned into spirals that lead off into him watching the dark silhouette of a bird disappearing into the night to find some other manner of release. As much as he loved the man, self-deprecation and healthy coping strategies were always things that Qrow struggled with, but wasn’t that all the more reason to reach out? To offer a little nudge out of the hole forming around his companion in these dark times? Besides, he’d love to talk about anything that wasn’t their current situation as well. 

“I think it has a beauty all its own.”

While he’d meant it to be heard, Oz was still a bit caught off guard when Qrow’s face turned to him finally, skeptical look in place though even that was far less sharp than the man’s features had been before, some prickly sort of curiousity peeking out underneath it all. It seemed they were of one mind in wanting a bit of a distraction. 

“How do you figure that? Aren’t old guys like you supposed to hate this stuff?”

A snort left Oz’s lips at the familiar jab and Qrow’s own quirked in response, a slight change in trajectory having them walking shoulder-to shoulder (more so when Qrow’s slouch became a bit less oppressive on his bones). 

“Contrary to popular belief I’m not entirely illiterate when it comes to modern technology, though I will admit in recent years its evolution has been kicked up a notch or two.”

“-Yeah, remind me of that the next time you have to update your desk again. I’ll come around and laugh.”

A sharp look just had the man snickering, playfully bumping Oz’s shoulder with his own as a more natural smirk coming into place. 

“Go on gramps, I need quotes for later.”

Eyes were rolled and cheeks pinkened but Ozpin remained undeterred fixing his gaze on one of the other colourful screens above them, his movements paused.

“Well, believe me or not, but it actually makes me a bit nostalgic at times.”

“What?”

He flicked a look back to his companion who had followed his own gaze, face skyward and reflecting the lights dancing across his humoured features. 

“What’s all this crap supposed to remind you of?”

“Magic.”

His answer came quickly and short, almost as if a part of him hoped that it wouldn’t be heard at all. He’d always struggled with sharing these parts of himself, even with someone like Qrow who’d he’d trust with his life five times over. It simply felt alien admitting such things.

There was no luck in Qrow mishearing though, as all at once the amusement washed away to something quizzical, Qrow turning back to face him with a raised brow and an unasked question which Oz answered first with a sheepish half-shrug and a return of his own eyes to some distant screen before quietly continuing with words barely loud enough to reach Qrow over the wind. 

“In ‘my time’, magic was an ultimate solution to many problems. Those with a gift for it were capable of some truly spectacular feats, and while it could be a source of acclaim for some, it was mostly just viewed as a matter of life. A gift from the Gods.”

Colours swirled and flickered as a dust advertisement came on above, and Oz could feel more than hear as Qrow shifted in a bit closer from where his sudden stop earlier had created distance. He resisted the urge to look, continuing before he lost his nerve to. 

“And then, it wasn’t. Humanity was reset, and so much of what had seemed ‘normal’ in life, was now different. The Grimm were rampant, resources were scarce, and so much of what had once seemed ‘easy’ now was a collective struggle. But.....”

And here he found his own smile tugging at his lips, a fondness bleeding into his voice that cut through his nerves at sharing this possibly silly comparison.

“Humanity always finds a way. You build, you create, you find ways to create solutions that were never before possible. I may not always understand the intricacies of technology, but it is, at its core, accessible in ways that magic never was and with it, with your own human ingenuity you’ve far surpassed what we had accomplished with our magic. You’ve created your own form without Gods or simple solutions. And that, to me, is-”

“-Beautiful.”

The gruff voice interjected into the end of his embarassed monologue, bringing his eyes to meet the crimson ones of his companion, something within them turning the pink on his face to red and causing it to spread as a warmth through his entire body particularly when a hand came to wrap around his own reminding him of how cold out it was if only because Qrow’s was so warm in comparison. 

“.....Yes.”

He finished, his affirmation delayed and coming out like a stammer now that he was faced with the abrupt reminder that all he’d said actually had an audience. 

Eyes searched his as his hand was squeezed, something unnameable passing over Qrow’s expression there and gone in a moment before a wide smirk split his features and a tug brought Oz stumbling back into motion with him. 

“Well, I don’t know if I share your views on that completely. Hard to really see ‘humanity’ as ‘beautiful’ or any of that when we just keep fucking everything up.”

A huff was given from the man, eyes flicking back to the screen they’d passed before, still looping the footage of the new knights ebfore they returned to Oz and the smile was back, along with a quirked brow that said far too much with the words it was accompanied by. 

 But, maybe once we get back to the hotel and I can feel my feet again, you can try convincing me again, and we’ll see how that goes.”

Very suddenly, nothing felt cold anymore, in fact, Oz remembered very little of the rest of the brisk walk back to their accommodations that night. And while the next day saw more frustrations than joy, and the weeks afterwards were touch and go as well, Qrow remained close more than he was away and together they all worked to create a solution between the warring yet co-alligned forces of magic, technology and humanity. 

[writingsofadream]

An imagine where they have trouble getting it up when they're drunk

Struggling to Get Hard While Drunk

SEOKJIN

Coming back from the dinner, you and Jin couldn’t stop laughing and giggling, much to everyone else’s sober annoyance. No one else had drunk, so the two of you were definitely a sight to see. More importantly than that, though, was the way his hands were wandering all over your body. Cupping your breast, Jin gives out another windshield-wiper laugh as you batted it away playfully.

“Come on guys, wait till you get to the hotel room.” Jimin says it in a stern tone, but you hear deep down he’s at least a little amused by the scene at hand.

Finally, you reached the hotel room that you and Jin had booked - it was one of the nicest suites, and the boys were all quite a bit further down the hall. Saying hurried and slurred goodnights, at least three of the members shook their heads at the ridiculous pair. Thoroughly amused, you both giggled as you slammed the heavy door shut.

“Come on baby, let’s see your tits.” Jin says this with a dangerous wink, inciting more laughter from your inebriated state. Without a second thought, you whipped off your top and unclasped your bra. Jin pulled the straps off your arms, revealing your sleek breasts. Pinching at a nipple, it grew hard in response.

“Fuck, Y/N. That’s nice as fuck.” You both break into hysterics again, and he picks you up in his arms. Seconds later you feel yourself being thrown onto the incredibly soft duvet, silk pillows surrounding you.

Jin clambers on top of you and your naked chest, before bringing his head down and capturing one of the pink buds in his mouth. Moaning your appreciation, you fumble with his belt. He laughs into your breast and pulls away, undoing the belt for you. Taking pity on your drunken and clumsy hands, he pulls his pants and boxers down, revealing…what could only be described as a semi.

“Shit.” He whispers under his breath, grabbing it in his hand and trying a few pumps. It remains largely flaccid, and in your current state the only response you have is to break out into laughter. Burying your head into a soft, silken pillow you laugh, gasping breaths accompanying you. Tears pricking your eyes, you wipe them quickly as you turn back to your boyfriend and his half-hard dick.

“I’m sorry, baby.” You choke out in between little laughs. Clearing your throat, you attempt to make his red face lessen in what appears to be a mix of embarrassment and shock.

“It’s a little funny, you have to admit!” You say, offering him a large and supportive smile.

Leaning back down, he buries his heated face into your neck.

“Fuck, Y/N…that’s so embarassing.” Bringing it back up, he looks you in the eyes seriously.

“We are SO not drinking that much tomorrow night!”

NAMJOON

You and Joon had probably had a litttleeee bit too much to drink tonight, but who could blame you guys? When the boys had suggested throwing a little party for mono’s release, Joon had been fully for the idea. Well, that ‘little’ party ended up having around 150 or so participants, and with them came stacks and stacks of Grey Goose, Tequila, Jim Beam, and a variety of other alcohols. Once you were three drinks in you had thought to yourself the dangerous ‘fuck it’ mentality, and simply gone all out. Once Namjoon had seen you downing your 3rd shot, he decided to join your drunkenness.

Now it was 3am, and the two of you were completely and utterly wasted. To be fair, though, so was everyone else. Jimin stumbled past the two of you into the uber, practically drooling his goodbye.

“I wanna fuck you so hard you scream.” Joon’s whisper is thick with lust in your ear, and your whole body shivers in response.

“Yes, please.” You whisper back, pulling his hand into yours and intertwining your fingers.

Finally, your ride turned up to take you back to the apartment. The entire ride back the two of you made out in the back of the car, much to the annoyance of the poor driver. He didn’t voice his complaints, though, and you made sure to tip him 120% of the fee. That definitely softened the experience, as he flashed you the biggest grin you’d ever seen.

Pulling you into his bedroom, Joon locked the door and pulled you into his arms. Embracing you, he let out a deep breath, voicing “fucking finally” into the darkness. The two of you fumbled to the bed, falling onto it. Heavy petting quickly followed, and before you knew it his index finger had made its way up your thigh, under your skirt, and into your slick pussy. Moaning, you pushed against him, rubbing his palm on your aching clit. There was a rusting of clothing, then a small grunt of annoyance. Knowing he’d pulled his pants off, you reached down expecting to feel the length of his usually rock-hard dick. Instead, you were met with a soft and rather smaller version of what you were expecting, with his hand wrapped around the base.

“Joon?” You asked, confused.

“I’m sorry, Y/N. I’ve had too much to drink.” At this, he pulls himself from your heat and you can hear the evident embarrassment in his voice. Quickly, you wrapped your hands around his neck and pulled him into a cuddle.

“It’s okay, baby.” You replied. “I’m happy to just cuddle you.” He instantly cuddles you back.

HOSEOK

Hobi was pulling at your bra insistently, and you pushed it into his hand. The award show’s afterparty had been pretty wild, and since the two of you had been unable to act publicly indecent you were excited to finally be home. Hoseok had had a lot more to drink than he usually did, and instead of being his normal self he was all over the place. Walking as though he had two left feet, he had been tripped over one of Namjoon’s precious bear things, whatever they were. He’d pay for that in the morning, you thought to yourself.

You’d only had a few drinks throughout the night; more than Hoseok, but you were better at holding your alcohol…to an extent. As you also stumbled onto the carpet of the living room, tripping over nothing but thin air and your own intoxication, you realised you were drunker than you thought.

Hobi fell onto the ground next to you, reaching out to grope you with an adorable giggle. Rolling into his arms, the two of you lay there on the floor, hands running over each other’s bodies.

Pulling at his sweatpants, you begged for him to take them off. Shaking his head, he pulled your leggings down instead.

“You first, baby.” He says with a wink that warms your belly.

He peels off your tight and flattering leggings, revealing the skimpy g-string you chose to avoid visible pantylines. He whistles in approval of this choice, grabbing your bare ass cheeks roughly. His excitement spurs you on, and you shove your hand down the front of his loose bottoms, past the tight waistband of his underwear underneath. Your hand meets the opposite of what you were expecting, and you freeze, confused. Hoseok snatches you hand back out instantly, feeling you tense up.

“I…I’m drunk.” He says weakly. His eyes meet yours in the dim room, and you can see he looks almost sad.

“Hobi! I don’t mind at all, I was just confused.” You shake your head in amusement, then stand up and grab your clothes. He looks up at you, looking lost. You laugh at his expression and reach a hand down to him, motioning to pull him up.

“Come on babe,” you explain, “let’s get ready for bed now.”

You give him a smile, and he gives you a relieved and thankful one in return as he takes your hand.

YOONGI

Walking into Yoongi’s studio, you could smell the scotch in the air. Once he spoke, you could definitely smell it on his breath.

“Y/N!” Yoongi looks up from his glass, offering you a gummy smile that you don’t quite return.

“Why are you drinking again?” Your question sounds dead and emotionless as it leaves your lips. His smile drops instantly.

“I only drank yesterday as well, Y/N. It’s because we have a few days until tour, then after that I won’t be able to get even remotely pissfaced.” He scoffs, as though the whole thing is a joke. It definitely isn’t to you.

You can’t stop the venom in your voice as you reply. “Yea. Instead of spending it with me.”

“What?” Yoongi looks confused, furrowing his brow at you and shaking his head.

Sighing, you plunk down onto the soft couch-bed in his studio. “It’s just…I won’t see you for weeks.”

He seems to understand and nods. Then he stands, coming over to you and sitting by your side.

“Puts you in a mood, hey?” His question is somewhat breathy, and scotch floats through the air as he rests a hand on your upper thigh. Your body immediately reacts to his touch and his long fingers stroking your skin, and you feel yourself growing wet.

“Mmmm…yes…” Your reply is also breathy, and catches in your throat. Instinctively, you place a hand on his chest. Reaching under his shirt with the other, you feel the hard chest under it, his heartbeat pulsing through your palm.

“Fuck.” He whispers, before capturing your mouth with his. You taste scotch and something else, something passionate. His kisses are urgent, and he lies you down under him on the small couch-bed. Grabbing the front of his sweatpants, you try and rub your palm against his hard dick. However, you simply feel a still-soft, disappointing result.

He pulls his mouth from yours, and sighs resignation into your neck. Pulling up from you, he stays above you while looking at your face, holding himself up with his arms.

“I’m sorry, Y/N. I’m too drunk.” He pulls himself off you, sitting on the edge of the mattress. You scoot up to join him, and pull his hands into yours. He turns and looks at you, clearly disappointed.

Rolling your eyes, you plant a quick kiss on his cheek.

“Whatever, silly.” You say lightheartedly. “Let’s go get ice cream?”

Relief flashes in his eyes, then a definite spark of softness. Bringing your hand to his mouth, he kisses it.

“You’re the best, Y/N. I already can’t wait to be back to be back in your arms.”

JIMIN

Jimin was obviously pretty drunk, and you couldn’t help but laugh at his silliness. You had been hanging out with your boyfriend and the other members all day, and after dinner Hoseok had popped open a bottle of champagne. After that, beer and a couple of sneaky shots had followed, and the boys were all completely trashed. Since you were almost completely sober, it was the funniest thing in the world.

“Holy fucking shit guys! Look at this!” Tae held up a bottle of expensive vodka that had been buried in the back of their cupboard. Yoongi and Namjoon exchanged a cheeky look, then started chanting in unison.

“CHUG! CHUG! CHUG!” Jungkook joined in as soon as he heard, rushing over from the game of Fortnite he was watching Jin play. Throwing the controller down, Jin bolted into the kitchen to join the fanchant. Grinning, Tae spun the top off the bottle, bringing it up to his mouth amid the outrageous cheering surrounding him. Slipping his hands around your waist, Jimin whispered hotly into your ear, tickling your neck.

“Please give me a blowjob, Y/N.” Spinning around in his arms, you laughed and planted a small kiss on the tip of his nose.

“Oh really?” You asked playfully, cocking one eyebrow upwards. His cheeks grew a little red but his eyes grew excited, and he gave sharp little nods. Tae cheered victoriously as he finished a rather large mouthful of the stuff, Jungkook motioning for him to pass the bottle around.

Pulling on your hand, Jimin led you away from the chaotic fun. Making your way into the bathroom, he shut the door and locked it with a hazy grin.

“Get on your knees, baby.” He commanded, and you dropped down obediently. Ignoring the cold of the tiles seeping through your thin jeans, you pulled down his shorts and his underwear. He was getting hard, but wasn’t quite there yet. You pulled him into your mouth, and he groaned at the warmth. Attempting to make him stiffer you tried your best to stimulate the head, gently pulling the shaft. Despite looking pleasured, nothing was happening.

“I…shit, Y/N. I can’t get hard.” His voice is distinctly upset, so you remove your mouth from him. He pulls up his underwear, and his shorts quickly follow.

“Fuck, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have drunk so much.” His face is bright red, and you hop onto the bathroom sink. Pulling him closer so he stands between your legs, you place your hands on his cheeks and move his mopey face to look at yours.

“I love you Chim. I don’t care.” You pulled him closer and hugged him tightly.

“I love you, Y/N.”

TAEHYUNG

Tae was giving you a drunken back massage, after the two of you had stupidly spent the night drinking and playing board games. Satisfied with the night, you were definitely far more drunk than Tae was. To be fair, his buzz was pretty high too. And it was making you really, really horny.

“Fuck Tae, can we just fuck now?” You know you sound desperate, but you don’t even care. You want him, and you want him now. He sounds surprised as he answers, a little bit out of it.

“Huh? Now?” Climbing off you, he pulls you up so the two of you are sitting facing one another.

“Yes, Tae, nowwwwww.” You draw out the word like a needy child, and he laughs at your pout.

“Sure Y/N.” He gives you a wink, but in his state it only comes out as a slow, stupid looking blink. You break into laughter, jumping onto him and pushing him back to the ground. The kisses are slow and sloppy, the two of you aiming decidedly badly. It’s so clumsy you can’t even really tell which parts of the bodies are yours and which are his; you’re just a tangled mess of drunken lovers.

“You’re tickling me!” Tae proclaims, and you push your sweaty body off his with another childish pout. Pushing himself up onto his forearms, he suddenly gets a little serious.

“I’m not going to be able to get it up.” He offers a crooked smile at the end, and you laugh at him as you try to understand what he means.

“What do you meannnnnnn?” You drawl out, looking confused and sticking out your bottom lip.

Tae rolls his eyes at you, deliberately flicking you with his foot. Yelping and flicking it back, you giggled hysterically at him.

“My dick won’t get hard no matter how sexy you are!” He exclaims pointedly, looking straight at your tits in the revealing shirt you chose.

Sticking your tongue out at him, you understand it must be embarrassing and you notice the red in his cheeks and his defensive position. Rolling back over, you pull your shirt up to show your bare back again.

“Then get back on my massage, please!” The joke has the desired effect, and your silly boyfriend starts laughing again.

JUNGKOOK

“You look so beautiful, baby.” Jungkook’s words are nuzzled into your neck, making you even hornier than before. The two of you had just arrived home from your friend’s 21st birthday, and you had both had too much to drink. He was stumbling a little as he walked, and you had taken your heels off long ago as they had become a serious hazard in your current state.

“Urgh, Kookie…” you moaned back. He had you pressed up against the kitchen table, and the whole apartment was deadly quiet besides your whispered conversation. Moonlight shining through the big glass windows is the only source of light the two of you have, illuminating each other. Pulling his shirt off, he reveals his hard and toned abs. You reach out quickly and spread your hands across them, biting your lip at the man in front of you. He gives a breathy groan in response, digging his hips into yours. Looking down you see his visible v-line, just waiting for you to follow it downwards. Unbuttoning his jeans, you go to pull them down but he stops you before you can.

“Hang on, Y/N.” Jungkook chokes out, reaching under your dress and pulling it up. Lifting your arms in anticipation, he then pulls it off over your head. Now in only panties and your bra, he gives you a once over, his eyes widening.

“Sexy. You. Are. Sexy.” Each word comes out slowly and in amazement, and you naturally go bright red. Rubbing his hand against the crotch of your panties, he can feel your heat through the thin fabric. Reaching for his jeans again, you hungrily tug at the waist. Once again he pushes you away, and this time he takes a step back. His head is down, and his hands swing at his sides.

“Kookie?” You ask, concerned. He shakes his head and looks up at you.

“I can’t get it up.” He looks absolutely devastated, and you hop off the marble. Taking a step towards him, he keeps his eyes on your face, desperate to read your thoughts.

“You're too drunk?” You ask carefully. He sighs.

“Yea. I am.” He still sounds disappointed, and a bit like he’s going to cry. Wrapping your hands around his naked waist, you pull his chest to you.

“I don't mind.” You whisper warmly, and he holds you tightly.

“I know.” He replies, sounding sad but simultaneously relieved. He kisses the top of your head lovingly, and you can’t help but smile despite it all.

[ requests are currently open for imagines/reacts ]

[crowdvscritic]

round up // OCTOBER 20

Hubie Happy Halloween, friends! I’m not sure what October’s been like for you, but here’s a quick summary of my month:

Re-acquainting myself with my collection of (mostly gray and navy blue) sweaters

Ordering an embarrassing—like, I lost count kind of embarassing—number of lattés

Alternating between enjoying the ombré of the fall trees and cozying up with the first logs in the fireplace

Revisiting all-time favorite stories like The Scarlet Pimpernel by the Baroness Orczy, the extended Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, all three seasons of Stranger Things, the 1995 Pride and Prejudice miniseries, and several Harry Potter movies

In short, this month has been all about finding joy in the little things, which is the essence of our search for coziness in autumn. Since these monthly Round Ups only focus on pop culture that’s new to me, that means this month’s list is shorter than usual, but many of the movies and shows feel like warm blankets I’ll return to again. Though, as you’ll see, a few are not…

October Crowd-Pleasers

Enola Holmes (2020)

A movie so charming, I’m on the verge of rewatching even though it’s only been a few weeks. (It’s a rare occurrence for me to return to something so quickly.) It lets a stacked cast of performers known for dramatic roles flex their comedic muscles, including Henry Cavill, Sam Claflin, and—most spectacularly—Millie Bobby Brown. You can read my full review of the new Netflix movie at ZekeFilm. Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 8/10

Murder, She Wrote (1984-96)

This entry comes with a bit of an asterisk* because Kyla and I watched this murder mystery procedural in 2018 for our podcast, SO IT’S A SHOW? At the time, I was open to watching more episodes, but it was never so easy as with the launch of the Peacock streaming service. All 12 seasons are available in the free tier, and I never thought a show about murder—and in the procedural format, which I don’t typically love—could be so enjoyable. Angela Lansbury’s mystery writer/amateur detective Jessica Fletcher has become a non-ironic role model for me—I aspire to be as gracious, intelligent, humble, uncynical, and assertive. Also, who says I’m not aspiring to spending my 60s writing, traveling, and solving crimes while wearing a fabulous collection of cardigans?

The Return of SNL

When Saturday Night Live returns in the fall, I always squeak out during the premiere’s opening credits, “My friends are back!” It’s a silly thing to say about an ever-rotating group of people I’ll never meet, but when you’ve been watching Kenan Thompson do his thing for close to two decades, you can only be delighted to see him after months of absence. While the “At Home” episodes this spring were a treat I didn’t think possible, it’s even better to have my friends back at it in their usual environment with the high production value of Studio 8H. These were the skits that made me laugh the most month:

“VP Fly Debate Cold Open,” mostly for the Jeff Goldblum tribute (4602 with Bill Burr)

“New Normal” (4602)

“Dr. Wenowdis on Weekend Update” (4602)

“Enough Is Enough,” a bit which explains my feelings about almost all celebrity political takes (4602)

“Canadian News Show” (4603 with Issa Rae)

“Election Ad” (4604 with Adele)

“The Bachelor” (4604)

For more on how this season has come together back in the studio, you can read the Vulture interview with Lorne Michaels about it.

Coach Carter (2005)

A based-on-a-true-story movie about an unconventional basketball coach (Samuel L. Jackson) who wants his players (including a baby Channing Tatum) to succeed on more than just the court. It’s a straight-down-the-middle story that shares DNA with many of the inspiring sports movies that came out in the wake of Remember the Titans, but it’ll scratch that itch if that’s what you’re looking for. Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7.5/10

Double Feature — Early ’90s Halloween Classics: Edward Scissorhands (1990) + The Addams Family (1991)

Both of these movies start at Christmastime, but both are spooOOooky movies in their bones. Not all Halloween movies are Tim Burton movies, but all Tim Burton movies are Halloween movies, including Edward Scissorhands (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 8.5/10). Tim Burton is hit-or-miss for me, but I was pleasantly surprised at how moving this idiosyncratic fairy tale was. Johnny Depp is at his most tortured as a Frankstein’s monster whose inventor (Vincent Price) gave him scissors for hands, Dianne Wiest finds the heart and comedy in your local Avon representative, and Winona Ryder is a queen. The Addams Family (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7/10) might be even more idiosyncratic. I’ve never watched the TV series, so it took me a minute to warm up to its twisted sense of humor (“Are they made from real Girl Scouts?”), but once I did, I started laughing as often as my nostalgic parents.

The Magic iPod

A nostalgia kick you didn’t know you wanted. I have no idea why or how this site exists, only that it brings me joy. Try mashing up “Ms. New Booty” with “A Thousand Miles,” “Get Low” with “Float On,” “Tipsy” with Bring Me to Life,” “99 Problems” with “All Star,” “Country Grammar” with “Complicated,” or any other combo that brings your favorite songs from your first iPod together.

Hubie Halloween (2020)

You know those dumb movies that just hit you in the right spot? Adam Sandler has a knack for those kind of movies, and Hubie Halloween fills the void of Halloween fun you’re probably missing this year. Sandler plays Hubie, a not-very-bright do-gooder with a very big heart whose self-proclaimed purpose is to keep everyone safe in his hometown of Salem. But there are spooOOooky threats on Halloween night this year, and only Hubie and his thermos (which rivals a Swiss army knife in all its functions) will be able to save it. Don’t miss it you’re like me and love a good celebrity cameo and a Hollywood-designed Halloween costumes. Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 6/10

Double Feature — Are We Sure These ‘80s Movies Are for Kids? Gremlins (1984) + Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)

After seeing Gremlins (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7/10), I know why parents were clamoring for the PG-13 rating—this movie may be short on the scares for adults, but I have no idea what I’d do for a tyke not expecting the cuddly Gizmo to spawn homicidal ghouls. In what may be the most ‘80s movie I’ve watched yet, we get a legit bonkers story, both in premise and execution—and it might also be a brilliant and scathing satire of consumerism? Perhaps another spoof of consumerism: Who Framed Roger Rabbit (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 8.5/10), which creates an impressively specific world that’s part animation, part live action. It’s a parody of classic film noir with no shortage of innuendo or just plain weirdness—its artistic achievement makes it worth watching, but since when have kids cared much about any of those things?

Double Feature — So-Bad-They’re-Good Action Flicks: Gone in Sixty Seconds (2000) + Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012)

If Gremlins is one of the most ‘80s movies, then Gone in Sixty Seconds (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 5.5/10) is one of the most Nicolas Cage movies. He’s a good guy caught on the wrong side of the law in a ridiculous plot engine where he has to steal 50 cars in less than a week. His pent-up frustration lives just below the surface, and his performance is so committed, you’re not sure if he’s knows  the dialogue and plot twists are zany—in fact, you’re not even sure he’s acting at all. Also committed to whatever the heck it’s doing is a movie that’s exactly what it sounds like, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 6/10). An over-qualified cast (Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Anthony Mackie, Rufus Sewell, and more) just goes for it in a story with the premise that Abe Lincoln fought oppression caused by slavery and by immortal blood-suckers. I think my favorite part is when a vampire throws a pony at our 16th president—I couldn’t make this up if I tried.

October Critic Picks

Triple Feature — ‘60s Horror Classics: Village of the Damned (1960), The Haunting (1963), Night of the Living Dead (1968)

In Village of the Damned (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 8/10), everyone in a British village passes out at the same time for hours, and weird events continue for years, centering around a mysterious group of children. In The Haunting (above, Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 9/10), a group is studying events at a haunted house, but it may be the house that’s in control. And in Night of the Living Dead (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 9/10), the zombie genre dawns with a group huddled away from the undead in a farmhouse. All of these are thoughtful, well-made films, but I recommend them with asterisks* because I’ll never watch any of these groups again. The Haunting made me scared of bumps in the night as I was falling asleep, and Night of the Living Dead gave me zombie-filled nightmares. If you’re looking for a dose of heebie jeebies, these are the movies you’ll be needing!

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

I’m not sure I understood any of it, but I think I liked it? If you don’t mind a film that feels more like poetry than a plot, this visual stunner is worth the long runtime and straight-up weird sequence of scenes. Fortunately, I was prepped for my viewing with the help of Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz and writer/director Brad Bird, who selected as part of this season’s Essentials lineup. While Bird loves the film, Mankiewicz admitted it’s not one of his favorites because it’s such an obtuse head-scratcher. Both acknowledged it’s an important one to cinema, so unless The Tree of Life is still making your brain hurt almost a decade later, it’s worth trying to parse through a story that covers the dawn of man, man’s fight against machine, and, um, a lot of other things I couldn’t explain if I tried. Crowd: 5/10 // Critic: 10/10

The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)

If you’re a fan of Aaron Sorkin’s idealist monologues and ideological pitter-patter, then pause your latest binge of The West Wing to watch his latest writing/directing outing, now streaming on Netflix. Based on the true story of protesters who clashed with the police outside the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in 1968—which, yes, doesn’t seem to difficult to imagine these days—it captures the spirit of a wild trial about political activism, healthy debate, fairness in government, and even the importance of grammar. If you watch it and think there’s no way this really happened, be sure to read up on the real trial to see how the film toned down the judicial circus. While this Oscars season will be unusual, we can predict this film will be in the awards conversation. Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 9/10

Also in October…

My fellow ZekeFilm writers and I collected our favorite Halloween movies and TV specials for your enjoyment. Not-a-spoiler-alert: My pick is not very scary. In fact, it’s a zom-rom-com I’ve only come to love more since reviewing it upon its release.

Though Kyla and I always talk about Gilmore Girls on our podcast, we don’t just talk about the murder mystery TV shows it references like Murder, She Wrote. This month we talked about an ‘80s prime time soap full of shoulder pads and catfights as well as a ‘70s movie starring Rocky and the Fonz. Then we decided there were so many confusing pop culture references in an episode we couldn’t pick just one, so we researched a mish mash of topics like Punk Planet magazine, workout guru Jack LaLanne, singer Blossom Dearie, Manson cult member Leslie Van Houten, and a whole lotta board games.

540 movies and counting! You can follow real-time updates in what I’m watching in quarantine on Letterboxd.

[i-know-you-can]

Love to Hate You - Chapter 5

Summary: AU - There is something about the way she looks at him. The way her cheeks flush and her beautiful green eyes sparkle. Like she wants to wrap her hands around his neck and strangle him, but she thinks better of it. It amuses him like nothing else. No other woman has been able to fire him up like Betty Cooper. And yet he hates her.

Rated: T

Chapters: 5/11

A/N: Big thank you to everyone who commented on the previous chapter, it really brought a smile to my face and I had so much fun reading through your comments. Hopefully this chapter will be enjoyable for you as well.

read on AO3

read on fanfiction.net

Betty gasps when his teeth pull on the skin of her neck, the pain surprising her in the best way possible. He quickly soothes it with a kiss, while his hands continue to roam her body and she bites back a moan, not wanting him to know just how much she's enjoying what he's doing. How much she wants him. Needs him.

He continues, pressing sloppy wet kisses all over her chest, but the movement of his fingers is anything but sloppy, finding all the right places to touch to make her shudder under him. In any other situation she would hate that he has so much control over her. But not now.

“I still hate you,” he mutters into the crook of her neck matter-of-factly, but she doesn’t care what he thinks of her. Not as long as he continues whatever it is that he’s doing with his hands that feels so good. She’s close. So damn close.

“Good.” She manages to squeeze the word between the gasps and moans that grow more frequent with his every stroke. She's not holding back anymore, finding it too hard and too pointless. She can't hide the way her body reacts to him and she doesn't want to. Especially when he seems to be doing everything he can to make her yell his name by the end. “’Cause I hate you too.”

 Betty gasps and wakes up with a startle, a trickle of sweat running down her back. It’s been two weeks since the little moment of passion she and Jughead shared in the kitchen, but the more she tries to forget it, the more it gets burned into her memory. This was not the first and she suspects not the last dream like this. Each of them slightly different, but they all feel so real and make her wake up covered in sweat and with an ache between her thighs that can’t be satisfied by her alone. Just one more reason for her to hate Jughead Jones.

At work they have been doing everything they can to avoid each other. Betty brings enough food and caffeine with her to be able to get through the day without entering the room where it all happened. They are both avoiding eye contact whenever they pass each other, but Betty is pretty sure she’s felt him watching her on more than one occasion. Not that she hopes he’s dreaming about her the same way she does about him, but she hopes that his decision to kiss her is torturing him at least as much as it does her.

Ever since his moment of weakness Jughead has been trying to occupy himself with work to get his mind of the blonde sitting at the opposite side of the office. He isn't all that successful considering he occasionally catches himself staring at her across the room, letting his mind wander to all the things he would do if he ever got the opportunity to touch her like that again. As much as he's trying to force those images out of his mind and remind himself of all the reasons why he hates her, most of which are quite trivial and only based on his insecurities if he's being completely honest, he still can't forget how good it felt when she was running her hand through his hair and her thighs were squeezing his hips. He gives himself a mental slap and tries to come back to work.

Thankfully he has been getting a surprising amount of emails in the past week, all concerning a restaurant in Brooklyn he had yet to visit. According to his research it has recently gotten a new owner, but also a new set of problems. Several people have reported to him terrible cases of food poisoning. Their reactions ranging from the more common stomach issues to people ending up in a hospital. Despite all of this, the restaurant seems to have a clean record and seems to have passed the health inspection with flying colors.

While Jughead usually prefers to keep his articles simple, focusing on his own experience rather than what other people seem to be saying, the emails coming to his inbox more and more frequently peek his interest. He knows it wouldn't be the right thing to ignore such a serious issue. Especially as his writing could have a serious impact on the situation. But it isn't exactly his area of expertise and he’s afraid there isn’t much he can do on his own.

That's why he ends up in his boss' office, telling him about the whole issue and asking him if there is someone in the office he can hook him up with to help with the investigation. Mr. Weatherbee, all happy considering an article like that could bring a lot of traffic to their website, agrees and promises Jughead to find someone to help him as soon as possible.

It’s barely twenty-four hours after Jughead’s discussion with Weatherbee when Betty strolls to his desk, saying she’ll be the one helping him with his article.

“You’ve got to be kidding me!” Jughead exclaims, running his hands across his face. “Out of all the people here it has to be you to work with me on this article.”

When Mr. Weatherbee called Betty to his office with an offer to help with an article that could for once actually help people, she didn't ask for details before agreeing. She has been writing silly clickbait articles and occasional interviews for months, but what she's wanted ever since high school was to do some actual investigative journalism. When he told her she would be working alongside Jughead, her smile quickly disappeared, but her determination didn’t waver.

“It’s not like I won the lottery with you.” Betty rolls her eyes. She is definitely not happy that she and Jughead are supposed to work together, but she couldn’t pass up the opportunity to finally do some investigative work. “But I’m not gonna let you ruin this opportunity for me. So throw your insults and stupid jokes at me all you want. I’m not backing out.”

Jughead has to admit that she is determined and a very small part of him admires it. Finds it hot even. Seeing her fight for what she wants for once. But it certainly doesn’t make him feel happy about having to cooperate with her. Especially since they haven't spoken a word to each other since the moment he stormed out of the kitchen after their little make out. The one he initiated, but she gladly participated in. Or did she?

Jughead has been desperate to know how she felt about it. He felt chemistry between them he has never experienced with anyone else. Though lately he didn’t have much to compare it too, so his sex deprived body might not be the most reliable judge when it came to sexual chemistry. He suspects Betty has been avoiding him because she is either embarassed or disgusted.  “This never happened,” he said and maybe she decided it was better to pretend it didn't. How stupid was he to think that pretending it never happened would actually make him forget it? He would never forget about it. But he would have to learn to work alongside Betty and act like he did. Since that was exactly what she was doing.

“Okay. Whatever.” He throws his arms in the air resignedly. “But it's my article, so we're gonna do things on my terms.”

Over the course of the next couple of days they work side by side on their article, trying to gather more information about the restaurant, its owner and trying to get in touch with the people who fell ill because of the food. It's a slow tedious process and their working sessions usually end with Betty calling him an asshole and storming out, while Jughead mutters insults of his own. But somehow their relationship improves and they are no longer just scowling at each other every chance they get. They are working towards a common goal which makes them set their differences aside at least for a little while. However, they're both quickly getting frustrated when they make little progress. They've contacted the authorities responsible for the hygiene and safety of the restaurant, but they claim everything is in perfect order and there is nothing to worry about.

 “I think we need to go there ourselves,” Betty says one day when she and Jughead meet again to compare their progress, concluding there is none. Most of the people who got food poisoning never saw a doctor about it and those who ended up in the hospital didn't show anything unusual on their test results. At least not anything that could be traced back to the food they ate.

“And do what, get ourselves poisoned as well?” Jughead asks bitterly. He has been putting way more time into this article than he first expected, yet the results were frustratingly low.

“No, dumbass.” Betty rolls her eyes. “We need to take a look around, take some food samples with us or something. Have you never seen a detective show in your life?”

“I think you may have seen too many,” Jughead scoffs, but he knows there is not much they can do from the inside of their office. The information they have gathered from other people doesn't seem to be enough to draw any conclusion and emails from random customers are not exactly a reliable source either. “But okay. We could use to take a look at the place ourselves,” he agrees after a moment of consideration. “I'll try to hook us up with someone who can get the food samples tested.”

“Great.” Betty claps her hands excitedly. She knows it's unlikely that they will find something, but it's better than staying inside and hoping for evidence to come their way on its own. She will do anything to solve this case. Even if it means going to dinner with Jughead.

[peculiarmindset]

Prompt: 2/3 of the podium family have never heard the 3rd burp, so they devise an "evil plan" to get him to 😈

Hmm…I actually had to think about this one for a bit about how I would write it….

“Victor isn’t human.”

Yuuri squeaked as looked with wide eyes at the Russian blonde who suddenly took a seat beside him. Hand to his chest as he tried to calm his thumping heart, Yuuri stuttered, “Y-yurio! You scared me!”

Yurio paid no mind to that as he repeated what he had said earlier. “I’m 100% sure that Victor isn’t human.” He told the other in a very serious voice.

Yuuri blinked once, looking absolutely clueless about what to think of that. “Uh, and what makes you say that?”

The teen looked around the room, noting that there was only a few customers around and none were paying attention to them, before he leaned towards the Japanese man and hissed, “Don’t you think it’s suspicious that we’ve never seen him look or act as anything less than his normal high-maintenance self?”

“I don’t think Victor is high maintenance. I mean, he barely uses any beauty products- I’m pretty sure it’s all natural.” Yuuri pointed out.

Yurio snorted. “As if. He has light grey hair for god’s sake- there’s NO WAY that color isn’t from a bottle!”

Yuuri frowned at that. “Well…it is Victor, after all. I mean, it’d be strange if he was anything less than perfect.” The Japanese skater did admit that he WAS Victor’s number one fan and it’d be hard for him to see his childhood idol/fiance as anything but perfect.

The teen rolled his eyes. “Whatever. But what I’m trying to say is that aren’t you curious about what’s underneath all that…Victor-ness? I mean, he dresses himself up on a daily basis as if he’s going to a photoshoot or something. It’s weird!”

“It’s Victor.” Yuuri pointed out again.

Yurio continued on, ignoring what the other said. “He’s not human. I mean, everyone has an ‘off’ button. A side to themselves that is gross and embarrassing and proves that they can be considered as trash too. That old fart doesn’t have that- it’s like he’s a robot.” He growled.

“No, he’s definitely human. I can assure you of that.” Yuuri blushed as he remembered last night just 'how’ human the Russian man was.

The blonde gave him a disgusted look. “Yuck! I don’t need to know about your dirty sex lives! Besides, if there’s something like sex dolls around, then I’m sure that sex robots exist too.”

“Yurio!” Yuuri yelled, looking at the other horrified. “Where did you learn that from?!”

Yurio rolled his eyes as he huffed. “I’m not a kid- and besides, we’re in Japan where it’s practically the land of kinky shit. I could just walk down the street and learn stuff about this type of thing.”

“I think I should join your walks from now on.” Yuuri paled.

The other sighed and shook his head. “Anyway, that’s not the point. My point is, don’t you want to see Victor in a less-than-his-usual-prissy persona? Don’t you want to see him being gross- like looking like a slob or being gassy or whatever? Even when he’s black-out drunk, he still manages to get a lot of likes and compliments about how good he looks on his pictures-it’s insane!”

Yuuri blushed bright at the thought of his fiancé looking just like that. It would be a sight to see the perfect Victor Nikiforov as something less than perfection. “Well…yeah. I would like to see that.” He slowly admitted.

Yurio grinned as he clapped his hands together. “That’s great! So since you agree with me, than you’re totally fine with my plan.”

“What plan?” The Japanese man looked back at him warily.

“I brought Victor to one of the empty banquet rooms in the inn and told him that you got him an extra large pizza with a large bottle of soda for being the best fiancé in the world. I then left him there, knowing the idiot wouldn’t question it at all if you were involved, and then stuff himself silly since its from 'you’.” Yurio said pointedly. “If we go now, I’m sure we can expose Victor’s 'true’ self.” The teen grinned evilly.

“Yurio!” Yuuri scolded, looking horrified.

“It’s too late, Katsudon! And besides, you were a accomplice in this plan too so you also have to take some responsibility for this.” Yurio pointed his finger at him.

Yuuri furrowed his eyebrows in confusion. “How am I an accomplice? I only just found out about your plan?”

Yurio smirked as he explained to him, “That large drink bottle I asked you before? The one I said that was for one of the guest? Well, I lied- it was for Victor.” He confessed.

Yuuri froze, his heart suddenly stopping. “Wait, that bottle you had me get you was for Victor?”

Yurio grinned as he nodded. “Yup.”

The Japanese man shook his head frantically. “No, Yurio. Listen, that wasn’t soda. I thought you were asking for some wine so I got Minako to send me one of her good bottles that has a very high alcohol content in it.” He told the other, panicking.

Yurio froze as his eyes widened. “Shit.”

Both the Yuri’s rushed to the room where Yurio had left Victor in and the blonde teen practically kicked the door open.

“Oi! Old man!” Yurio yelled as they rushed in. They both paused at the sight before them.

At least Victor still had his clothes on. Well, kinda.

The drunk Russian (it was obvious that he was completely wasted) had his shirt undone and pant’s zipper open, but both Yuri’s were just grateful that Victor wasn’t completely naked.

The pizza that Yurio had gotten was ginormous and seemed to have every topping under the sun. By the looks of it, Victor must have eaten at least ¾ of the box (which was an impressive feat in itself).

Victor grinned at them, his eyes in a type of daze as he sat in a rumpled heap on the floor. “My Yuri’s are herrrreeeee! *hic!* I been *hic!* waiting fooorrr yooouuuuu!” The drunk man slurred, bringing his arms up to silently ask for his Yuuri.

Yuuri gave the teen a wide-eyed look as he made his way to his fiancé, gasping when the other clung onto his lower half in an iron-clasp grip. “Ack! Victor- too tight!”

“I missed you! *hic!*” he hiccuped. “Thank you for my loooovvveeeellllyyy present, Yuuuuuuuri!” Victor thanked. Suddenly a large burp exited his lips, making Yuuri freeze and look down at his fiancé.

UUUURRRRPPPP!

Victor giggled, his cheeks a bright pink (though it was probably due to the alcohol rather than embarassment). “Uurrrppp! I think I ate too-urrp! much!” Victor laughed uncontrollably as he began to continuously let out a series of burps and belches.

Yuuri just stood there, not know what to do as his fiancé clung onto him, refusing to let him go. When the Japanese man heard the sound of clicking, he turned and spotted Yurio with his phone out, taking hundreds of photos of the drunk man.

“Yurio!” Yuuri hissed, trying to cover his fiancé from the boy’s view.

Yurio only chuckled evilly as he looked at the many photos and one video that he had caught. “My plan is a success! I guess that idiot is a human after all and I can’t wait to use this as blackmail!” He said, gleefully.

Before Yuuri could say anything, Victor them let out the largest and wettest burp yet. “UUUUURRRRRRRRRRRRPPPPPPPP! Ahh! It’s getting too hot in here!” Victor complained as he quickly shed off his shirt and started to pull off his pants.“

Yurio gagged as he immediately covered his eyes and backed out of the room. "Urghh! As soon as his pants are off, I’m outta here! See ya later, Katsudon- I’ll send you a copy the pictures and video later since you were also part of the plan!” The blonde then ran off, locking the door behind him.

“Yurio, wait! Come back!” Yuuri yelled, tying to stop the blonde from abandoning him with his drunk, now naked fiancé.

“Yuuri, you’re so hot too so let’s-uurrrpp! let’s take off your clothes nooooowwww!” Victor slurred as he took hold of the other’s pants.

“Wha-?! Victor no! Stop! Yurio, come back here-ah! Wait, where are you touching- ahhh…wai, Victor….hmm…”

And no one saw the couple again for the next two days.

*I’m not sure if this is what you wanted, but hopefully it’s fine :)

[bri-goodwin-blog]

Who: Bri & Boone What: Boone gives Bri a tour of Babylon, they talk. Where: Babylon, during the day.

--

'Keep an eye on her for me, figure her out - make sure they seem like they're going to fit in here. I'm trusting you with this.' Being told that by Archer was no light request, and Boone wasn't going to be taking it that way in the slightest. It was about time that he got asked to do something; he was tired of being looked at like he was just a moocher nowadays. His leg was healed entirely on the outside, but his pain was still someone psychosomatic, forcing him to limp behind the new girl as she crossed the courtyard outside. "Hey! Hey, Bri, right?" he tried catching her attention, rubbing at the knot in his thigh as he finally caught up right behind her.

--

It had been easy, just like Roscoe had told them it would be. 'Bleeding hearts', that's what he'd called them - laughing with a cigar held tightly between his teeth. And, like most things, the man was prooved to be right. Hearing her name, the blonde stopped moving, a hand saddling lin her pocket as she peered over her shoulder, doe eyed and offering an uncertain smile at the other. "Yeah? Sorry, I forgot your name - there's a lot of you and it's hard to really remember them all." Boone. She'd heard him called multiple times, especially by the overly friendly man with the eye patch.

--

"Oh, sorry! I'm Boone," he politely stuck out his hand for her to take, smile on his face. She seemed pretty nice so far, pretty honest. "That's alright, hopefully if you stick around long enough you'll get to know each of us. How is your brother doing? I heard Archer got his knee back in socket. Probably going to be sore for a little while, but he's lucky it wasn't worse. Not that Archer wouldn't have, um, been able to take care of him. He's a surgeon. Or was. Before. In the military. Navy seals or something like that." He really needed to stop rambling when he was nervous.

--

Taking his hand with a slight nervous hesitance - a rabbit taking food offered to it - Bri let her smile widen a little before she lowered his hand. "Boone. I'll try and commit it to memory." Tucking her hand away she nodded slowly, looking at the ground for a long moment. "He's doing well. I was terrified for a while there, but you guys...you saved oir lives. I couldn't have kept carrying him and I'm not much of a fighter myself." The guy was a talker, it seemed a fair few of them were - which was only going to make their job easier. "Wow, that's pretty lucky. We used to have a nurse in our old group, but we all got seperated shortly after it all started. Medicine and military though, and he seems really nice too. Hard to believe there are still good folks out there, anyone else would have slammed the door on us I swear."

--

"There's not enough good people left in the world," Boone agreed with her with a sad sigh and a short nod. Especially not some of the people that him and Abby had run into before they had met the rest of The Company. Boone wouldn't even know where they would be if they hadn't found them. "I'm glad that we were here for you guys." She seemed genuine, which was good. There wasn't any sort of flicker in her words or anything of that sort. Boone figured he was doing a great job at being undercover surveillance. "Would you like me to give you a tour of the place?" he offered.

--

"I'd like that, a lot." Her shoulders slackened to mimic a gentle relief, one hand gesturing ahead of herself. "You all seem so close here, I really want my brother and I to fit in - it seems so nice to just stop and breathe for a moment y'know? I spend so long worrying about me and him, he's all I got left but sometimes I feel like we just need a chance to stop and catch ourselves. I probably sound silly." Bri laughed lightly, nudging at the ground as she walked, eye flicking intentionally to the leg Boone seemed to favor. "Sorry, I didn't mean to stare."

--

"You don't sound silly at all. I was in the same situation with my sister and I. It was just me and her for a really long time. She's my baby sister, and she's all I really had left at the time, and when we found this group it took us a long time to acclimate and accept that we were in a safe place. I hope you guys don't have the same problem, but you already seem like you're getting to know us well enough." He continued walking, limping ever so slightly as they moved toward where the pantry was. At her statement, he shrugged and gave her a warm, reassuring smile. "It's alright. I got hurt awhile back, still sort of in the recovery process I guess you could say." He didn't need to go into how he was pretty much all healed and his pain was mostly in his head, so he figured his response was good enough.

--

"It's nice you two still have each other, I'd be so alone without Dax." Another doft smile and she followed, nodding at his words. "It takes longer these days, to heal. But its good you even had the chance to get better - you guys mist really all care about one another; a real community."

--

Boone chuckled sheepishly and nodded, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly. "I agree. I wouldn't have lived if not for Archer. I... um. I owe the man my life." It was true, there wasn't much that Boone wouldn't do for Archer. He could probably tell him to jump off of a building and he would have even without a good enough reason. But that was just because he trusted the man. He knew he wouldn't put any of them in danger without good reason. He would be the one to guide them to safety, whatever the situation may be. "We do care about each other though. We didn't, in the beginning. There was a lot of fighting. But we've all been through enough that we're kind of like a little family now. And you guys can be part of that family."

--

"Dax may never admit it, boyish pride and all that but...we owe him ours. We were sitting ducks out there." Like everything else, it was a lie. Roscoe had an eye on them, she trusted him and they prooved their worth to him time and time again. They were useful, and he wasn't a man to let his resources die. "I hope so, I'd like that. A family, a little bit of normality - hell, I might even get a chance to hsve a baby like that other girl here. The blonde one with the lovely face."

--

"I'm just glad we could help you guys, is all." Boone beamed at her. This was good. They were making great progress. She really did seem like a nice girl - someone genuinely interested in making sure they were happy - and he was excited to report back to Archer on his findings. "Oh, Ivy? Or Sadie. 'Cause Sadie's pregnant right now. Ivy's the one with the baby. But hey, I mean, if you want something - anything is possible. You shouldn't let the way the world is now discourage you from being happy, y'know?"

--

Women with maternal instincts were trust worthy - it was natures law. A woman with the desire to nuture and care was portrayed as a strong, loyal person with a gentle soul towards those she held dear. Nothing was further from the truth when it came to Bri; a girl who would sooner throw herself down a flight of stairs than carry a child in this world. She only cared for one other person than herself.

"Ivy, she looks so happy - like something out of the past. I'd like a chance to be that happy. What about you? Like...kids or love, or are you waiting to find the right one?" A light playful giggle caught her words. She assumed the one eyed man was involved with him somehow but she was seeking clarity.

--

"They're a happy little family, for sure. Her, Flip and Phillip. That little boy may have been born into a world without social security cards and vaccinations, but he was definitely born into the arms of people that love and want him. And that's what really matters, right?" He chuckled shyly at her question and shrugged. "I don't want kids, I kind of have some pseudo-kids on my own. Dan, um, the guy with the eyepatch--he's my partner. And Howie and Ash are his sons - not biologically, but he's taken care of them since the beginning of this whole mess and they call him dad."

--

"Of course! You don't nees the finicky things in this world if you've got love. That's up there with oxygen and food for me." Another giggle and a broad smile settled on her face. "That's so sweet. He's a handsome guy too, end of the world and you still managed to land a good looking guy - I might have to ask you for pointers."

--

Boone blushed and shook his head, scratching the back of his head in embarassment. "I don't know how I got so lucky, really. He's an amazing guy and amazing father." He stepped forward when they reached the pantry and held the door open for her. "This is the pantry. It's where all of our food and supplies stay. Everything is watched or locked up 24/7. Not so much because we're afraid of each other, but you never know about other people."

--

Inspecting the pantry, she nodded slowly - mentally noting what she could as she feigned awe. "Wow, you guys really are prepared. I totally get locking it, I  used to sleep with my rations when this all started just in case people ate them."

--

"Yeah," he sighed with a nod of understanding. "I know how that can be. I had that happen once back when it was me, Abby and mom. Someone came and stole all of our food right from underneath us. We had to trade some of our other supplies to get it back, it was a mess. Can't seem to trust anyone these days." Except her, right? He could trust her. She seemed like a nice enough girl, and Dax seemed like a cool enough guy. They should be perfect additions to their little family. Especially with how much she was sharing with him already.

--

"Sometimes i like to hope I can trust people again. I always feel like I'm too trusting or positive but Dax and I...we just wanna see the good in people like we see in each other. I see it in you, and I saw it in Archer when he let us in." Pushing a lock of gold behind her ear, the blonde sighed softly. "I just hope you guys can see it in us too."

--

"Trust me, I can see it already," he said with a beaming smile as he stepped out of the pantry and back into the courtyard, moving toward their next destination. "Archer is pretty good at reading people. He wouldn't have let you guys in if he didn't feel safe with you, so all of us are naturally going to feel good about you guys. I just hope you learn to like us just as much."

--

"I think we will, I already feel myself relaxing in this place. It's weird but it feels right." She'd used that line before, she used it every time. Following him, the blonde stowed her hands away again and peered around them. "How old are your partner's kids? Kids are rare these days, but then again so are babies and you guys almost have two here. "

--

"Good, I'm glad," he stated with a smile. "Ash is 16, and Howie is 21. They were a lot younger when this whole thing started, though. Maverick, our resident farmer, has two kids, though. His daughter is 2 or 3 and his son is 11 or 12." She was easy to talk to, which is one of the reasons he was confident she was going to fit well with the group.

--

"Aww that's so sweet. All these little families..." Bri beamed at his words, her expression not once faltering. "You guys...you give me hope, really."

--

Boone beamed right back at her with his own hopeful smile. He stopped where he was walking and tapped her on the back softly in a friendly greeting. "Well, hopefully you can become part of that family. Now, ready for the rest of the tour?"

[jakehawkfield]

So my wife is totally convinced we have a “gnome infestation”, whatever that means. She swears she can hear the little dudes giggling at night and standing ominously in the garden in the morning. I thought it was funny at first that she’s being so paranoid about this, cause the likelihood of gnomes causing issues in some random picket fence suburban home is like, really low, i feel like. Maybe if we lived in some gothic mansion I’d expect supernatural activity, but this place was built in the 60’s. Anyway, so my wife starts getting really upset about these “gnomes”. Every time she loses her keys, or i bump into something and she didnt see it, or even when the house settles she swears its the gnomes. And i admit, some weird stuff has been going on. It’s just us, no kids, but sometimes things just seem to disappear and neither of us remember putting it anywhere. Like a whole bag of parsnips. I’m not even sure what parsnips are, so it wasn’t me, and my wife swears on her life she didnt touch them. Things started appearing, too, eventually. One time i came home from work and there were three cloves of garlic very neatly lined up in front of the door. Maybe it was some neighborhood kids, but i dunno. No pranks came or anything. It was all really harmless at first, like I’d wake up and theres just a bunch of grapes hidden in my shoes. It started to go south, though, when one night i wake up to my wife coughing really hard, she’s sitting up in bed and i sit up too and rub her back while she coughs. And then when she’s finally done and turns to me, her mouth is just full of dirt, and there’s dirt on her hands and lap where she was coughing. “The gnomes filled my mouth with dirt,” she said. She was really upset so i didnt fight her about the gnome thing. Another time, i went to sit down for dinner and I’m so glad i looked because on the seat of the chair was two kitchen knives, blade side up, propped up like that with a paperweight from my desk and an ice cream scoop. It was obviously done by a person intending to harm me, so that’s probably when i got worried. We called the police after that one, but they couldnt do anything. There were no signs of break ins or stalkers. They just told us to be careful. So we did, and we just kind of tolerated waking up some days to every surface of the house coated in peanut butter and olive oil and stuff. It got really annoying, though, so eventually i called an exorcist, at my wifes request. I mean, i wanted this to stop too, but i wasnt sure what some phony psychic or whatever could do. Anyway, when we wake up on the day the exorcist was scheduled to come, our house was a mess. A bunch of stuff was knocked over, wallpaper was shredded from the ground to about two feet up, and weirdest of all, there were miniature pieces of clothing and tools all around. I stepped on at least three tiny ladles, and there were little red fabric cones around, and what looked like a shirt the size of a napkin, and tiny wooden clogs that would be about the right fit for an american girl doll, probably. Lots of other stuff too. We decided not to clean it up so that the exorcist could see what he was gonna be dealing with, and also my wife was really paranoid that the gnomes would get revenge if we threw out their stuff. The exorcist shows up a little while later, and when he sees the mess that the house is in, he just lets out a low whistle. This guy has got priest robes, rosary beads, and a bible tucked under one arm, like he’s gonna give a sermon and then banish a demon in the same hour. So my wife kind of takes the lead here, since shes so invested in the gnome theory, and she tells the guy all about it. “We’ve got a gnome infestation. Theyve been doing all this stuff. Its the only explanation,” she says, and i love her but at that moment she just sounds so childish and silly that I’m embarassed to be there. “Its not gnomes,” i say, and its the first thing ive said in a while. “Gnomes are a garden decoration. They don’t trash people’s homes, they just stand there. If any supernatural thing is doing this, its probably a goblin or a demon or something. Gnomes though? Ridiculous.” And my wife seems a little embarrassed now, because what i said was true. But the exorcist just shakes his head, looking skeptical. “I wouldn’t be so convinced of that,” he says. “You want my diagnosis?” My wife looks at him like he’s the second coming of christ or something and nods vigorously. The exorcist takes a look around at all the mysterious, tiny clothes on the floor. “Gnome shoes? Gnome shirt? Gnome problem.”

[bellringermal]

No, no, no! I love Gehrmaria :3 But Maria's relation to him are pretty weird for me. I want to justify her choice.

I was joking my friend! But since you’re asking, here’s how I see their relationship from her point of view. Be warned, it’s going to be a long post. Because it’s a slow burn :P

Maria didn’t like Gehrman at first. She didn’t like the Old Hunters as a whole, to be fair. As you pointed out, she was a noblewoman so of course she felt out of place among mercenaries, ex convicts and eccentric blacksmiths. And as for Gehrman himself, he was a very demanding and strict teacher, not because he liked to treat his students badly, but because he knew better than anyone how dangerous the Chalice Dungeons could be. And he didn’t go easy on Maria just because she was a woman (and a woman he reeeeally liked, at that :P) especially since he could tell that she was the most talented recruit he ever trained. And all she needed to learn, beside the basic hunting tecniques, was teamwork. Because being too brash and confident was what got most of Gehrman’s students killed… and he didn’t want to see her dead. But Maria was too full of herself to understand this and costantly got angry at Gehrman, accusing him of being unfair to her just because he was trying to scare her out of hunting and treated her as if she was nothing more than ‘a spoiled child’.

As time went on tho, Maria began to bond with her comrades, to appreciate their loud laughs, their quirks until she finally saw them as friends and as the formidable warriors they were. She had to admit to herself that Gehrman was right and that his exhausting training was what saved not just her, but the whole gang in more than one occasion. For this reason, she grew genuinely fond of that grumpy man and wondered why he was always so distant and taciturn. His behaviour puzzled her, because at that point he was the only one she couldn’t really figure out. Which made sense to her, because he was their leader and had to act as such, being impartial and stuff like that.

Yet, she was curious. And of course, she did not fell for him overnight, nono. So many things happened that brought them closer: quiet moments like a faint smile, a jar of ointment to treat bruises left on the counter just for her, that time she hugged him out of nowhere just because she was happy and remembering how shaky his voice was right afterwards. And moments that weren’t ‘quiet’ at all! like the rush of adrenalin and triumph as they hunted as a pair, holding their breath as they stepped in an unexplored corridor of the Labyrinth or scouted the narrow streets of the town at night. In those moments they moved in perfect synch and laughed like carefree teenagers because what’s the point in mantaining a pretence of authority and composture in front of someone who’s as drenched in blood as you are and as relieved that the night is finally over?

So, it was a bit of a surprise for her to realize that her ‘fondness’ for Gehrman was turning into attraction. She felt like of one those silly protagonists from cheap romance novels. What could possibly be more cheesy than getting a crush on her own teacher? And yet, she was not one of those pale and frightened gothic heroines who wander aimelessly waiting to be saved… she herself was the vampire who lived in the solitary castle on a cliff, raised as part of a society well-known for its debauched ways. Maria had many lovers before, many suitors, and never shied away from displaying her interest if someone caught her eye but with Gehrman it was different. She suspected that he was attracted to her, but couldn’t say it for sure, because the guy was doing a damn fine job hiding his feelings (I mean, according to canon she never found out about his ‘mania’. Gehrman must have the best poker face ever :P) and if that was the case, Maria had no intention to push him. She understood that Byrgenwerth was not Cainhurst and that Gehrman’s position could’ve been compromised by her ‘interference’. But above all, she respected the guy enough not to want to embarass him just because she was experiencing what she brushed aside as a silly crush.

Give the two lovebirds some more conversations, 5 looong months apart from each other and a particularly bloody night of the hunt and you’ll have the perfect setting for breaking the ice. He finally found the guts to kiss her and immediately regretted it. Afraid to see her reaction, he ran away, cursing himself for being such a fool. Maria on the other hand, was just standing there thinking “oh well, I was right” with a smile on her face and hoping that in the upcoming days Gehrman would calm down and talk about what just happened but… he didn’t. He started to avoid her and looked for excuses every time they happen to be alone and of course, Maria was quite pissed by his childlike behaviour. What happened then is that she finally managed to corner him one evening at the workshop and to get him talk. And the rest is history :)

Long story short, the reason why she ‘picks’ Gehrman despite their age and social gap is as simple and as predictable as it can be: she likes him. A lot. They have many things in common, she deeply respects him for his skills,  admires his dedication to his task and can sympathize with most of the bad experiences he had in his youth because she too has been through a lot, even if under different circumstances. And let’s not forget that she finds him pretty handsome ( I like to say that she suffers from a severe case of Old Man Thirst™ just like I do eheheh) and that they’re absolutely hilarious together, teasing each other 24/24 and simply being huge dorks.

[prophetkristy]

slayer of stars

Twenty years ago today, I came down the hill from my History 101 course with my brain a-whirring, made my way to the computer lab in the dungeon basement of my dorm, logged onto Usenet [1], and posted the following to alt.fan.wedge:

Subject: SW and animism From: Kristy <…@uidaho.edu> Date: 1997/08/28 Message-ID: <872787391.28561@dejanews.com> Newsgroups: alt.fan.wedge

Okay, I just got back from my History of Western Civilization class, and I have to vent. It’s no secret that GL got his ideas from other cultures and traditions. So it wasn’t too surprising when my teacher(who’s pretty awesome, IMO) was explaining animism today, he used SW as an example. (it sure made taking notes a lot easier. ::g::) Animists believe that the universe is alive, i.e., the Force is there. And they have shamans who are basically Jedi knights. I identified with evrything he was saying until he got to explaining their general classes of gods. Here’s what they have: the old father god, the young warrior god, the young goddess of war/love, and the trickster. There were parallels here to SW: trickster=Han Solo, wise father=Obi-Wan, goddess=Leia. But my teacher went on and on about how the young warrior was the coolest of all, he went off and fought battles and monsters and all the cool stories were about him. So who else would he choose for the SW parallel but Farm Boy. Bleah! I _almost_ went up to him after class and protested. Farm Boy isn’t the coolest warrior! _Wedge_ is, of course!

Yet another example of the oppression Wedge fans suffer at the hands of Farm Boy…. ::sigh:: Well, he’s guaranteed I’ll remember _that_ part of the lecture.

How about: Vote Wedge. He’s the true animist warrior god.

Thank you for listening, you’re the only people who would ever understand. :-)

–Kristy [2], off to an astronomy lab

Palpatine’s dead. Vote Wedge. –Antilles/Celchu ‘00–

From such humble [?!] beginnings was the True Animist Warrior God movement born. (Some time later I printed out a post signed with the TAWG [3] campaign slogan and taped said slogan onto my history notebook.)

This was not to bag on the history course. It was only the second day, as far as I can tell from my notes [4]. I had wanted to take the honors section of the course, but it wouldn’t fit in the schedule of other classes I was taking [5]. It turns out that I don’t regret this, as I very much enjoyed the class. It was actually taught by a graduate student, IIRC, and he was very good; he described many events in a human context with the emotions and motivations of the players. [6] Really, the worst thing about the course was that it was at 7 am—a less than ideal way, shall we say, to start college [7]. (Oh my TAWG, I’m going absolutely berserk with the footnotes! My brain keeps going off on tangents, but I don’t want to interrupt myself all the time. wheeee!)

(Interestingly, the next semester I continued on with Hist 102, which this time was taught by a professor. Who wasn’t nearly as interesting as the grad student!)

According to my heading for the Animism post in the Classic Threads section of the AFW website [8], I previously linked Star Wars to the Sumerian epic Gilgamesh��where Farmboy was Gilgamesh, taking all the credit, and Wedge was Enkidu, doing all the work. I think now this might be a little revisionist history. I can’t remember in which course I read Gilgamesh, but it’s likely that it was Lit of Western Civ that same semester (high school Senior AP English was British lit, where we watched every Jane Austen movie Ever Made *gag*). The earliest post of mine I can find referencing the two was actually the *next* week or so, in the midst of the Epic, Historical “Fantasy Toys” Thread, in response to Quiara:

> We understand you, dear. Where else could I admit to writing a Hero > essay about him in the same year that I did a book report on Rogue > Squadron?

I really want to write my Lit of Western Civ essay on the parallels between Gilgamesh/Enkidu and Luke/Wedge, but I could never get four pages out of that and have my teacher actually like it. ::pout:: [9]

Both of these posts were commenting on what I felt (still do feel, to some extent) was a sad state of affairs in being a WedgeFan. Namely, that Wedge was a lot cooler than most people give him credit for. (And, underlying that feeling, a WedgeFan’s natural disdain for Luke “Farmboy” [10] Skywalker.) This would reach its fannish culmination in the Book of Wedge, but had real-world significance in the woeful lack of a separate carded Wedge Antilles action figure. As well as the lack of Wedge awareness among those who weren’t huge pilotfans.

Despite that, 1997 was a fantastic year to be a WedgeFan. Maybe if you weren’t Quiara, Brett, or myself, it was different—we three were quite chatty—but I never heard anyone complain. ;-) [11] It wasn’t actually our most active year, but it was the beginning of what I think of as the “golden years” of AFW. The first four X-Wing books (by Historian of Wedge Michael A. Stackpole) had been released by January 1997, and Mike actually lurked and occasionally even posted. I joined in the spring of 1997 as a senior in high school (with a very embarassing post which will not be reproduced here). Quiara was in high school. Brett wasn’t being challenged too much by work or life, because he also apparently had a lot of time on his hands. Somehow the three of us had some mojo (and also probably high blood sugar content) that just led to wacky hijinks. Quiara declared Wedge’s candidacy for President in April, a story which would last well *past* the 2004 election. I declared him TAWG in August. The Fantasy Toys thread was started earlier in August, thus cementing me into the AFW madness and keeping me frequently posting even when I probably should have been paying attention to college. (eh. I gradutated.) The “the world is falling down…” thread was that year, too.

Of all the Internet friends I have, interestingly it’s Quiara and Brett whom I’ve never met in real life. I actually haven’t heard from Quiara in years; she dropped off the radar at about the time she started college, I think, thus proving her work (study) ethic. ;-) I can’t say I really knew her all that well—AFW was almost exclusively the limit of our interaction—but I still consider her to have been an early partner in crime. I still hear from Brett occasionally, and I actually can’t believe I haven’t found myself visiting his city before now. Brett holds a special place in my memory not only for being such an integral part of that first crazy year on AFW, but also for scoring me the Wedge action figure I like to call “biceps Wedge”–the one from the Milennium Falcon carrying case, which his comics store was selling loose for some reason.

Resorting again to Google Groups (we never know, when we’re making history, that we are doing so, and as such fail to keep track of these things), it looks like I first styled myself Prophet Kristy on October 8, 1997, in a short thread titled “Random Thoughts.” [12] Quiara, bless her heart, actually accused me of being humble:

> –Kristy, Prophet of the Great One

Just a prophet? you could make Cardinal at least, if you wanted.

(Yeah, maybe I could have—I am Catholic, after all—but, y'know, “Prophetess” works better on the back of a kickball shirt that “Cardinal”. “-ess.” Er, see what I mean?)

One month later (AFAICT) I first signed a post as “Prophet Kristy”–and the rest, as they say, is history.

I could go on and on with the AFW nostalgia——but I should probably get to work on actual, you know, work. And this is getting LONG. However, I do want to mention one other thing in relation to the TAWG / Prophetess thing.

The Book of Wedge was my default icon on LiveJournal—a little cartoon made by terrathree, originally for Terra Group, that she kindly made 100x100 when I started LJing. I didn’t actually come up with the idea for the Book of Wedge—the document I wrote was largely an adaptation from “The Adventures of Wedge Antilles” written by Mike Scorsch and posted on his late web page Corellian Bloodstripes. I’d always been greatly amused by the idea of revisionist SW history with Wedge being the person behind *everything*–especially having Wedge actually blow the first DS as well as the second. Having declared myself a Prophet, I also felt it was only fair that I write a Holy Book. Thus was born the Book of Wedge, wherein Wedge not only blows up both Death Stars, but also shoots Greedo, fights off the Slave I with a blaster, and generally saves the day. In it, I declared Quiara and Brett to be Apostles of Wedge along with Jim and Marji, two others who were in the thick of AFW in late 1997. And generally had a blast being silly and fangirly.

Quiara followed this up with the Book of Quiara, a short history of the campaign and other silliness. And much later, terrathree expanded on an observation I’d made about the constellation Orion looking like an X-wing and wrote the tale of the Hunter of the Sky.

These are only a few of the many, many tales of Wedge spawned by AFW, but they are the Holiest. So sayeth the Prophetess of the Great One, Wedge Antilles, the True Animist Warrior God. *makes the Sign of the Exploding Death Star*

I imagine our old IRC chat server probably doesn’t even exist anymore (is IRC even still a thing??)–Feast Days used to always be Chat Days–but have a good Feast Day of Wedge, won’t you all? Do the Ewok Dance, drink some Ewok Juice, bag on Farmboy, and revel in the glory of the Rebellion’s Greatest Starpilot.

[1]=Yeahhhhhh, Usenet. Back in the day. [2]=As you see, I didn’t self-identify then as Prophetess; that was to come later. Wow, I’d forgotten I used to use my fanfic Knave Leader and the ASCII parked X-wing in my .sig. Nifty. [3]=I’m almost positive that Morwen was the one to coin that acronym. Once again showing us all up with her mad language skillz, especially considering this isn’t her native tongue. [4]=yes, I’m enough of a nerd that I’ve kept my freshman history notes. [5]=probably this was a good thing, since I was taking the honors sections of Chemistry 111 AND English <memfault—Literature of Western Civilization>. [6]=I haven’t been able to turn him up by Googling, but I hope he found himself a faculty position somewhere; he deserves it. [7]=I cordially loathe all those students who boast of arranging their schedules to never start before 10 or 12. I was never able to do that—there was always a class I needed that was a 7:30 or 8 or 8:30. Pout. [8]=Yeah, I know it’s gone. It needs a new server space. And its webmistress needs to pay attention to it. I’ll just have to link to Google posts here. [9]=It looks like I had dropped the Knave Leader by this time, but was still not calling myself Prophet Kristy. [10]=How much do I love that Mara always calls him Farmboy? [11]=Oh, no, that came much later, spurring the Project Boussh Polite Flame War of '01(?). [12]=this was also apparently the thread that spawned the phrase “rakish rebel scum”, which Brett quickly hailed as a great band name. And it was only a 7 post thread! aaah, for the time to just read and relive the posts of those years.