#like AT THE VERY LEAST I can take advantage of this wasted money

[cheriafreya]

I already decided to stop spending on Star Rail a while ago, but now that they've nerfed Aventurine right after having him bugged for 6 weeks...? Yeah, this game ain't getting any more money from me ever, lol.

[vqnrouged]

Can I request for general relationship headcanons with Fleki and Lycion (separate or together doesn't matter) with a sheltered reader

𝐋𝐘𝐂𝐈𝐎𝐍 & 𝐅𝐋𝐄𝐊𝐈 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐀 𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐒/𝐎

𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 : lycion & fleki (separate)

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 : lycion & fleki with a sheltered s/o

𝐚/𝐧 : of course you can! i’m kind of a sheltered person too. and also i’ve become obsessed with this duo lately so thank you for fueling the obsession. anyways, hope you enjoy <3

↳ 𝐋𝐘𝐂𝐈𝐎𝐍

• | he had a feeling you were a sheltered child when you met, just by the way you didn’t understand some of the phrases he said gave him a few hints. he doesn’t mind it though, not understanding certain things doesn’t make you any less of an interesting person, at least to him.

• | he’s definitely up for it if you want to try new things with him, but he won’t ever force you to do something you’re not ready for. but if you’re ready to do something you’ve never done before, he’ll be right behind you if you need something. he wants to see you succeed at new things so seeing you have fun simply going to a festival makes him very happy!

• | he will absolutely use his beast form to intimidate people if you get nervous from being around so many people at once, the crowds at the markets can be quite big and the vendors can be manipulative and conniving people so he doesn’t want you to be taken advantage of. if he does end up somehow being separated from you while you’re trying to buy something, then he will check with you to make sure you’re money wasn’t wasted. and if it isn’t worth the amount of money, he will go back and get your money back.

↳ 𝐅𝐋𝐄𝐊𝐈

• | if you are sheltered, fleki will make you unsheltered. she doesn’t even realize she’s doing it either, she just wants you to have fun with her. this elf did not have a single clue that you were sheltered, she just thought that you were joking about not knowing what certain drugs were. when she first mentioned to you that she took shrooms, you were so confused.

“babe, i don’t know exactly how to put this but… i kinda take shrooms. like a lot.”

“shrooms, as in mushrooms?”

“yeah, kinda like the ones you sometimes find the forest.”

“okay?”

“you don’t care?”

“i don’t see the problem with eating mushrooms.”

“…are you sure you know what kind of shrooms i’m talking about?”

• | after that she definitely knew you were sheltered, so she began to take you out to more parties and celebrations with the canaries or accompanying you on side missions in the dungeons. that way you would be introduced to different types of people and could learn more about the world around you rather than you having to stick to what your parents taught you.

• | fleki is also quite an affectionate person so don’t expect her to hold back on showing you that she loves you in public. she could care less about what people think of the two of you and will wrap her arm around your waist or shoulder to prove it. she will initiate affection so you become more comfortable with giving her some in return, but she won’t force you to reciprocate. she knows you’re kind of new to relationships, so she’s trying to make it fun for you.

• | she may play it off, but she does get worried about you while in dungeons. you haven’t witnessed death first hand before like she has before so seeing you nearly have a panic attack over her getting poisoned by a walking mushroom makes her feel a little bad about insisting to pattadol that you should come with them. once she does revive after dying, she’ll try to make you laugh to make you feel better. whether it be some dumb joke she came up with or pinching your cheek, she just wants you to not cry over her.

@𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬 - please do not translate or copy my works.

[tarotwithavi]

10 Random messages for you or about you

Just Random things you don't see about yourself that others adore or find attractive! Or things you don't see coming.

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Piles : 1 ~ 2 ~ 3 ,

4 ~ 5 ~ 6

This is a general reading, take what resonates and leave the rest ♡

How to choose a pile?

Take a deep breath and close your eyes and kindly ask your spirit guide to show you the right pile for yourself and the open your eyes. Whichever picture attracts you is the right pile for you. You can also choose more then one picture.

Masterlist × paid services

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Pile 1

I feel like someone here has braces or is thinking about getting them but is scared or insecure that they won't look good? Man just get 'em. They'll make your teeth look fantastic.

People love the way you walk and I don't care if you say that "oh no, I don't even leave my house " . There's just something about the walk.

People love the way you stand up for the people you love and how sassy and sarcastic you can be.

You are the mother of the going aren't you? People absolutely adore seeing you take care of people and act like a mother .

People can see that you are intuitive and probably have some healing abilities.

Try being more athletic, it'll open a new side of you didn't know existed.

Do you juggle things? Like you can catch anything at any distance and that's freaking attractive.

People can clearly notice that wherever you go you bring love and light with yourself.

Some People see you as their good luck charm but not in a bad way or in a way that they want to take advantage of you.

Some people may say that you look like the statue of liberty 🗽 💀

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Pile 2

You have the power to make anyone and everyone obsessed with you. But let me tell you it's can be a curse or a blessing depending on how you use it.

You may have your venus in 9th house or in Sagittarius.

A immature man is obsessed with you. He can be a Capricorn or scorpio or have these is his big three.

You probably have psychic abilities or are interested in learning about the occult.

Some people may get intimidated by your energy the first time they meet you.

White flowers or flowers in general have a great significant in your life especially jasmine .

You can be a leo Or have 8th house / pluto placements.

You'll see a lot of doves when your manifestation is about to come to you.

You should let go of the things that are not in your control or don't serve you. They are just a waste of time.

Your manifestation will come to you when you least expect it or when you will be a taking a new step in your journey.

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Pile 3

Leave that toxic relationship or situation-ship. One you'll leave them a better person will come into your life.

Someone will try to bring you down or lower your confidence. Just show that bitch how capable you are.

I'm seeing a new job offer for you. This may start off as a low paying job but after sometime it'll pay you a huge amount of money.

You love dancing don't you? Why are you doubting then. Learn that dance. Show off your skills. Let yourself be free.

Someone in your life is treating you as a second choice or second option. Leave them. Who doesn't treat you as their first choice don't deserve to have space in your life.

Are you going to travel somewhere? Because I see that you'll meet a very rich and influential person there. They will be your teacher.

One of your wishes is going to fulfill. Be grateful and thank the universe the second you receive it.

Your skin look dehydrated please drink more water.

Someone here has connection with Egypt or Africa. Maybe a past life connection.

If you're thinking about dyeing your hair or getting a tattoo. Just do it but don't be too reckless.

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Pile 4

Someone is sending you an evil eyes or probably using black magic to harm you. Please protect yourself and your place. You should perform a protection spell.

You should seek out information that will help you. Probably research on the topics that spark your interest or ask for help.

Your on the road to success and you'll definitely get all the things you want. Just keep working on it!

Pay attention to your finances and where you spend your money. Don't spend recklessly.

You probably won't like it but pride is getting to your head. Ground yourself before it ruins Everything.

Someone with initials V is going to help you out or might have v in their name.

Wear more green to attract abundance and blue for clarity. Or work with these crystals.

I heard "red isn't bad for you and blue isn't good for you" . This may mean that things you see as danger might not actually be dangerous but things you don't see that way might harm you.

You are going to attract your true soulmate soon. You both are connected.

Use your words and intelligence as your shield. Don't let people fool you around.

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Pile 5

I'm seeing a person with blue eyes coming into your life. This may be a person you knew before but didn't talk to.

I'm getting that you may be accusing someone of the things they didn't do but you think they did it. Or someone may be doing this to you.

People think very highly of you and may see you as someone of high status . This may be why someone people want to take advantage of you.

Don't eat too much deep fried food. It's not good for your health. Eat something healthy.

I'm seeing a new opportunity coming into your life within the next week.

Someone may try to backstab you so be careful of who you tell your secrets to.

I heard "Pest control". Maybe you should clean your house or maybe you should clean your life and remove people who are like pests.

Some of you may be suffering from a severe mental disease. Please seek medical health. I beg you.

Please spend time around a water body like on a beach or near ocean . It may help you. Or maybe just take a long bath.

Don't let those negative thoughts come to you. You are stronger than them.

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Pile 6

If you're thinking of pursuing fashion this is your sign. Or you can just learn to sew. It'll be great!

I'm seeing a suddenly wealth for you. You may be getting an unexpected gift from someone.

If you're not feeling fulfilled with your job you can change it. The things that don't give you happiness have no meaning.

C and M might change in future. But this is not a negative change. They'll change for the better.

Oh my you're overworking yourself right now. Please give your some time to rest or to clean your mind.

But for some of you , you're spending too much time on your phone or on the internet. Get a life kid.

I'm getting that you're going to travel somewhere it can also be an Interenayii travel. It'll be a great experience for you.

You are very privileged. You just don't see it. And you look great in gown and women's clothes. Accept and Express yourself.

Your going to receive a text from someone. This person is very successful in their life . They might even like you but they are controlling.

Spend your money carefully. Because I'm seeing that you might regret later if you don't stop now. Don't go after branded clothes just think about comfort and quality.

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[thalia-vargas]

It's been four days since I've moved in, but I've not unpacked a single box. For the life of me, I can't figure out why.

A week ago, Forrest had offered his home to me. He said that if I lived here, I could save more money than I spend because he wouldn't be charging me anything, and that I'll be giving life to an otherwise empty LA home. But most importantly, it'll be a way for us to be closer, so that every time he's in town, we wouldn't be wasting precious time figuring out whose place to stay in.

It's most generous, really. He's been most generous. But after one night here, I'm not sure I can stay.

I mean, his apartment is nice. Really nice. It's no castle, but it's way better than anything I can afford on my own. Besides, I've never needed a castle. But to live here for free? I offered to pay for something, anything, because I would feel like I'd be taking advantage of his generosity if I didn't. He was adamant I didn't need to. Eventually, he conceded and agreed that I can pay for the utilities I use, but nothing more.

This arrangement, however, had not helped quell my shame. Days later, these four walls still don't feel like home. Even as I sit here, by his bed, wearing the very sweatshirt he gave me, just staring at my pathetic attempt to make things cosy — a fresh new plant I'd bought from the nursery downtown. None of it helps. At least, not really. The silence is too loud, and I don't feel any of the warmth I feel when I'm around him.

Then again, no other four walls have ever felt like home, except for the ones I left in Colombia.

I've briefly considered it, though. Going back. After all, I've not been home since my abuela passed almost two years ago. I know I should. To visit her resting place, at the very least. But the thought of going back there and finding it as empty as this apartment is right now makes me want to throw up what little is in my stomach.

So, what do I do? Where do I go? How can I be thankful for things that aren't really mine, and be merry and bright all on my own? I'm tired of crying, and of keeping it all in. I want to be able to find my own place in this world. I need to. For me.

But how? How do I get to a place that might not physically exist? And how do I tell him that I need him there, in my life, no matter what?

[fereldanwench]

under a cut for physical health talk (including weight) and achieving goals, nothing too intense, but i know sometimes seeing this stuff can put me in a bad place if I'm not in the right headspace so jic:

a piece of advice i've always really struggled with, particularly when it comes to physical health/fitness goals, is anything in the spirit of "be gentle with yourself" because

well

i will take advantage of it lmao

i am very good at justifying doing shit that is soothing in the short term but ultimately unhelpful, possibly even damaging in the long term

but being too hard on myself also has drawbacks because if i get into the habit of rationalizing bad choices and can't stick to a rigorous routine, i will feel like a failure which will send me into a depressive spiral

and i think in both cases the underlying issue is that i tend to fall into an all-or-nothing mindset, which was really compounded my anxiety for quite a few years. it was one of those situations where i knew that was a bad and counterproductive mindset, but the mental illness would not relent lmao

i did hit this wall again last fall after another yet failed attempt at a full diet and lifestyle overhaul (which was really too much at once even under the best circumstances, and these were not the best circumstances), but after i got over my little pity party, one thing i realized i did get better at was making better choices on a smaller scale

like okay, i had a long, shitty day at work, i want something fried and greasy and i do not have the mental fortitude to discipline myself into something else rn, but i can at least get a side of steamed veggies instead of onion rings with my fried chicken sandwich

and this is also advice i'd seen before and it always made sense to me, but i was just too locked into the all-or-nothing mindset that i couldn't get myself to implement it even if i knew it was good. on account of the mental illness lmao

so anyway, i'm trying something a little different with myself this year which is less about having a rigid routine when it comes to fitness and food, and instead about embracing a more flexible mindset. there are so many variables in my life that make trying to stick to a strict schedule impossible, but i can be more in tune with myself to make the best choices i can in a given situation

like monday and wednesday this week, i felt good physically and i had a lot of energy and some downtime at work, so i did 30 mins of cardio. that made me feel even better, and I'm currently in a headspace where i don't hate the idea of cooking (my relationship with food and grocery shopping and cooking is kgjdgdfgjdf I'm not even gonna get into it, but i have Issues™️ lmao) so i got some stuff to do some healthy dinners the next few days. i know meal prep and food planning beyond about 3 days doesn't work in my household and leads to food and money wasted, which makes me feel bad, so I'm not gonna try to go overboard here. just gonna do what i can while i can

and i'm trying to apply this to other things too, like reading. idk where this even got in my head, but at some point i was like 'if i can't read for an hour, I'm not gonna bother reading' which is dumb. so I've been reading 20-30 mins a couple of nights when it suits me. and I'm like a third done with a book i picked up a week and a half ago

(little tangential, but i'm also working on reframing how i feel about my past periods of success. like 10 years ago, i was eating very healthy ('clean') and doing HIIT like 5x a week, and when i felt out of that because it was ultimately unsustainable with my job, i was bitter and angry with myself for a long time. i felt like if it was something i did before, i should be able to do it again. but maybe i can't, and that's okay. i still did it at one point, and i still got a lot of benefits from doing it--that should be celebrated, not something i should hold against myself for not continuing)

something i encountered a lot when i was doing therapy and in fitness/weight loss groups was the concept of a SMART goal, which is a specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goal. and the part of my brain that likes things orderly and structured sees the benefit of that approach, but i just don't think that works for me for long-term change, particularly with something as amorphous (to me) as physical health

i tried noom (twice, as a matter of fact) because i knew a lot of my weight struggle was more mental/emotional than physical, and it's a very flawed program for a lot of reasons that I'm not going to get into rn, but one thing in particular that i could never really get on board with was setting a goal weight or a specific number of pounds to lose

i have no emotional connection to these numbers. i know when i feel good in my body and i know when i don't feel good in my body, and those experiences have never been tied to a specific number. i do weigh myself because it's an easy way for me to create some accountability for myself, but saying 'i want to be this weight by this date' just does nothing for me

(another small tangent but i think some of this also comes from being taller and naturally bulkier (even at my objectively healthiest) than the average cis woman anyway. like I'm never going to be petite or slim and i don't want to be, frankly. I've always had a really hard time connecting with women about this stuff in more traditionally female-oriented weight loss spaces (versus like a CrossFit box) because I've always leaned more towards muscle mommy than yoga girlie or whatever the cutesy internet terms are rn lmao)

so yeah! just some stuff i've been thinking about this week and wanted to get out. whenever i talk about this stuff i always feel like it's a big pile of WELL NO SHIT lmao but I've also just always felt like there's so much advice out there that just does not fully resonate with me and dumb brain until I'm ready for it. guess I'm ready for it now :3

[toujokaname]

Mischief / Episode 2

Characters: Rinne, Niki, Kohaku, HiMERU 

"—There's something HiMERU would very much like to try ♪"

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[ Read on my site for a better viewing experience using Ois~su ♪ ]

Season: Spring

Location: Café Cinnamon

Rinne: Anyway, enough of that.

The reason we dragged our sorry selves here today wasn't just to mooch a meal off Niki.

Niki: I really wish you'd stop using my workplace as a hangout spot, it's super annoying.

But well, if people are hungry, I’ll feed 'em. 'Cause I'll always be an ally of those with empty bellies.

Kohaku: Now that's what I call an ideal chef.

Rinne: Welp, let's just eat like usual and shoot the shit!

We can talk about this PBB thing too—it's pretty juicy, right?

Check it out, I got so hooked that I ended up splurging on a ton of doujinshi about it.

This one's a masterpiece! I skimmed it, and in this story, Merumeru splits into different personalities, and Kohaku-chan gets toyed with by each one ♪

HiMERU: —If all this leads to is ceaseless mockery, HiMERU will take his leave.

Rinne: C'mon, I already said I'm praising you. And also, we do need to discuss practical matters too.

Honestly, this is unprecedented for Crazy:B. We're getting so many job offers that we need to start picking and choosing.

In other words, we've gotta decide which gigs to take and which ones to turn down.

Up till now, we've been so sidelined at work that we'd pretty much take any job without thinking twice.

Kohaku: That really so bad? Far as I'm concerned, every job's a chance to gain experience, so I'd wanna take any job that comes our way...?

Rinne: It's physically impossible to take on every job.

There's no way we could handle it, even if we bust our asses. We'd need ten or twenty more Crazy:Bs just to get through all the requests properly.

Kohaku: We're really that in demand, huh...? So I guess we actually do got the luxury of bein' picky for once...

Rinne: We could always just refuse all the requests and jack up our prices, but that's just one way to play it.

Like saying Crazy:B's not gonna keep working for chump change forever.

HiMERU: We have been undervalued for quite some time. It's likely they took advantage of the instability of our situation, during those uncertain times in which we didn't know when we might be fired.

Rinne: But tossing away this all-you-can-eat buffet we've been handed would be a total waste.

It doesn't matter how many times you hit the jackpot or trigger a special bonus mode—nothing's gonna happen if you don't throw the damn balls in.

Niki: Ugh, again with the pachinko metaphors! Explain it with cooking instead!

Rinne: Say you put in the effort to plow a field and plant seeds but just leave it there without harvesting, it's all for nothing, right?

Niki: Now that makes sense~♪

Kohaku: It's like lettin' the future play out on its own. But yeah, if you don't harvest what you plant, what was the point of sowin' the field at all?

Rinne: And now's exactly the time for harvesting.

Sooo, what's it gonna be? If you just pick jobs without thinking, it'll be all about taking the ones that make the most money with the least effort.

Kohaku: That's the normal way to choose work.

But work ain't just 'bout making money. For some folks, it's 'bout self-fulfillment, or tryin' to find some meanin' in life.

HiMERU: It's a matter of priorities. Whether to make a big profit now, choose the work we're fond of, or invest in future prospects—

In other words, should the goal be to use this opportunity to try various kinds of work and gain experience?

How we choose our jobs depends on what we want to achieve.

Rinne: Welp, think it over carefully.

This is outside of my calculations. It wasn't intentionally created to stir up controversy or set a trend, so I'm at a loss on how to handle it.

I'm gonna beat that metaphor to death, but really, this is just like hitting the lottery.

What you do with that 300 million yen—the luck of a lifetime—is all on you.

Rinne: The thrill in gambling's in aiming and hitting the target; when cash suddenly rains down from the sky, it ain't exciting at all.

So, honestly, I'm not all that interested in this situation.

HiMERU: You have such a troublesome personality.

Rinne: Yep. That's why I ain't touching this one.

You guys can't just keep chasing after my ass all the time. Try using your own brains now and then? Yeah?

HiMERU: Since you immediately sprint off in baffling directions, we're left with no choice but to pursue you desperately.

That said, it is true that Crazy:B's activities have been heavily driven by Amagi up until now.

However, while units like StarPro's Ryuseitai are undeniably conspicuous or even blatant, perhaps it wouldn't hurt if, on occasion, someone other than the leader took center stage?

Kohaku: This PBB thing's supposed to be 'bout me and HiMERU-han, after all.

This is luck that we attracted, so it only makes sense we get to decide how to spend what we made from it.

Niki: Do as you please~♪ I'll leave it to you guys!

Kohaku: Still as ridiculously laid-back as ever, Niki-han...

HiMERU: Even so, this could be a good opportunity...

Kohaku: Hm? What is it? I can't make out a word you're sayin' when you mumble like that.

HiMERU: Never mind that. —Everyone, how about you leave this matter entirely to HiMERU?

Kohaku: Huh? Well, I don't mind, but I don't really have anythin' I wanna do with this weird trend either.

Niki: Does that mean you actually wanna do something this time, HiMERU-kun?

That's rare~ You're usually as unmotivated as I am, just in a different vector than me.

HiMERU: It's unpleasant to be lumped in with Shiina's kind. But well, it is what it is.

—There's something HiMERU would very much like to try ♪

[ ☆ ]

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[yakuzabrainrotlive]

Couldn't play Y4 today because I was studying and taking care of irl stuff, so I'll just write my Akiyama first impressions post now, as promised! I've played up to the first cutscene with "Lily".

This was supposed to be, like, a surface-level thing where I kinda guess stuff and do some basic observations, but according to Microsoft Word I got... around 1200+ words deep. So yeah. Good for you guys who like to read my rablings that I didn't take my meds today! But also... this IS my unmedicated self's ramblings, written at 10-11pm so... (attempt to) read at your own peril!

For those of you who want the short version, TL;DR is provided (and highly recommended) at the bottom!

So, Akiyama! What a guy.

-He's low-energy and has trouble taking care of himself, his work and his surroundings (laid-back or depressed? maybe it's a little bit of both - as a treat. Maybe executive dysfunction?). This is clear in how messy his office is, how Hana reminds him to eat and brought him lunch (implying he regularly forgets to, or just doesn't eat), and how it seems to be a common occurence that she has to encourage him to do his work. And yet, despite the chill vibes and slow pace he keeps, he manages to also be chaotic in the way that he's unpredictable to those around him, in terms of his business strategy, and in how he makes quick decisions on the spot – ones that don’t make sense to people around him, based on what they (think) they know about him.

-In front of most people, Akiyama pretends to be all laid-back and just this… guy who just does his own thing because he’s quirky and doesn’t care, but he's not fooling me at all; he cares, and he cares a lot. About many people. He's literally looking after the homeless in town - so much so that they feel safe enough to let him into their space to have a chat and drink with them, and ask him for things.

^This is probably no small feat, considering how the homeless are treated in Kamurocho (there's literally groups who hunt them for shits and giggles) and how uncertain things are for them in general in that area. They seemed genuinely happy to see Akiyama.

-Now, an argument could be made that he's doing it for his own benefit: having the homeless population on your side can be an advantage (for example: the Florist used them for discreet info gathering), but... I don't see it. I think it’s because he’s been there and he feels a great amount of empathy for them. Now. Why do I think he wants to have a mask of indifference in the first place? Well, to put it simply - shit’s dangerous. He has enemies in the money lending industry, which probably includes numerous Yakuza groups too. Can’t be caught caring, y’know. Both for his sake, and theirs.

-And so. We get to the neon yellow elephant in the room that has to be addressed; the way he handles his loans. I think Akiyama only takes on clients who he sees as either A: having the potential to make it big - the ones he can later maybe benefit from, or who he simply sees as benefitting from his loans the most, or B: - heavily speculating here - good? (decent?) people who are down on their luck. Ones who, he thinks, deserve a second chance, people who don't have anyone else to ask for help. If he was in the business for money and other benefits alone, he’d be charging interest out the ass like all the others, but he doesn’t. He merely tests people to make sure they don’t grab the money and leave the country, or waste it and never pay him back. He wants to see these people succeed – at least the ones he thinks will use the money to get back on their feet or to become successful, that is. People who could be more, who could FLOURISH, had they some extra help from outside. The tests including stuff like volunteering and caring for the elderly further point to a possible more altruistic side to his business.

He can't just go giving money out - he'd go out of business very fast. So he lends, with no interest. Just a test of trustworthiness, and terms that he finds will give him some benefit back, as well. He is running a business here, so him wanting to get something back from the customers instead of them paying interest is fair. Terms will also motivate the lendees keep themselves on the right track AND probably ward off the worst of the bunch, the ones looking for the easiest, quickest money they can get.

-People genuinely think Akiyama is weird - crazy, even - because of how he runs his business, and he seems totally fine with that. Which further makes me believe he’s purposefully built up this a mask of an uncaring and sort of ...unhinged man. He could explain himself and openly state the goals he has for the clients to dispel this negative, 'crazy person' image people have of him. But... that’d just be suicide; he’d openly admit to competitors/enemies that he has people he cares about and that he wants to see his lendees succeed. That’d be like ASKING for extortion and for terrible things to happen to the people who have visited his business in the past or who will do so in the future.

-He's good at keeping his cards close to his chest, too: in one cutscene people wonder why lendees don't ever lend from him twice. And what's the answer to the question that we hear? Something to the effect of "I don't know. They probably wanna avoid interacting with that nutjob ever again". People have NO idea why he does things the way he does. They know he lends money to people he sees as having potential to succeed in the future, but they don't even consider the possibility that some lendees he's simply helping get back on their feet.

-As for his goals? No clue! Besides keeping the business running, I don’t feel like I have enough information on him to parse any long-term goals out of this guy. Maybe keeping Kamurocho as chill as it can be? To prevent unnecessary bloodshed? He did go out out of his way to settle the dispute between the… the uhh… *has to google the name* the Kanemura peeps and Ueno to prevent escalation of the situation? But then again, Arai seems to have been a long-time friend, so maybe it was just to make things easier for him? As of now, he doesn’t feel particularly ambitious.

As for speculation on his background? Since my facial memory (even for fictional characters) is total garbage, I’m not 100 % sure, but I think maybe he was in the photograph that was in his drawer? He seemed quite well-off in that one. So how does he end up homeless? I feel like he either joined the yakuza and the family he joined disbanded, leaving him with nothing. OR he suffered a career- or family-related setback that landed him on the streets? Him being ex-yakuza would make sense since he seems to be quite informed on all the relevant lore and relations between families. But he also DOES work quite close to the... darker side of things with his business being what it is. But... he also fights very well. We’ll see! Maybe they explained it aready? If they did, am sorry! I was playing the game too late into the night so I was kinda eepy towards the end. Gonna re-watch the cutscenes from late chapter 1 and early chapter 2 when I keep playing.

Now, any relation to characters from previous games I wanna speculate on? I don’t see any real reason to think he knows Kiryu; he only referred to him with his DoD moniker and didn’t seem too interested or thoughtful about it. It was just him referring to a famous person. Majima? Don’t see it either. Anyone else? I don’t really have any reason to think he knows anyone from the past games as of now.

TL;DR:

According to my, at-times very faulty, sensors that are prone to overcooking:

Akiyama is a kind person trying to give others the second chance they deserve (as he himself got), while also trying to disguise himself as a chronic IDGAFer at the same time because he has enemies. He's a kind man living in a world that tears people like him apart.

Mans is probably depressed or at least suffers from executive dysfunction or like... low blood iron levels, based on how low-energy he is and how little he seems to look after himself and his office, and how he seems to have a tendency to… go at his own pace at work. Hana keeps (or at least tries to keep) him functional - or that’s what it seems like, at least.

He probably offers loans based on if he thinks lendees will get back on their feet, or if the loan will make them flourish business-wise.

Ended up homeless, maybe because he was ex-yakuza or because of a setback in a civilian career or family life.

Can’t say how he ties to characters from previous games, or if he even does at all. Besides Nishiki unknowingly acting as form of divine monetary intervention, that is.

[standardizedbogey]

glimpses of the past prompts:

critical or blushed

Meme is here

“Did you ever date?”

Daichi faltered as he cracked open his drink. “You mean, like… before I came to Veilstone?”

“Yes,” Cyrus said, though he clearly didn't see a need to make it so limited.

“I did a little,” he said as he reshuffled his food and drink in his hands. “But I wasn't all that old when I left home so it was never more than kid stuff.”

Cyrus nodded absently as he worked the paper to properly cup his pirozhki. Daichi waited for the continuation that he felt should logically come next. When none came, he did it himself.

“Did you date?” Daichi asked, and at the look he added. “Back in Sunyshore.”

“I did,” Cyrus answered a touch stiffly. “Not by my choice. My parents were very insistent that I was to be paired up with someone… advantageous.”

“So they had money, then?”

“Everyone in my parent’s social circle did,” Cyrus told him, with a dull emphasis on its unimportance. “The woman I was sent with were chosen for their ties to useful businesses or politics. So of course I needed to create a proper impression, which I had thought would have involved proper knowledge and achievements. It's evidently all about social rituals and eye contact.” He said the last bit with particular disdain. “It was all utter nonsense.”

“Sounds like,” he said with a sympathetic nod. “Was the food at least good?”

“You wouldn’t believe how much technical skill it can take to make something completely insubstantial,” he scoffed. “I suppose it's fitting to match the inane conversations. I don't know why they chose women who couldn't understand anything substantive.”

Daichi took his time swallowing. “Did you at least offer definitions?”

“Of course,” he huffed insistently. “But I can only define so much before there isn't a point.”

“Yes, I suppose so,” Daichi agreed, even though he was sure he could see the scene now.

Some teenage girl, dressed to the nines and bound by equivalent amounts of familial pressure, picked at her dinner to distract herself. Cyrus’s eye contact would have been blisteringly intense, and his info dumping (because he would absolutely be info dumping) would have been filled with unrecognizable terms. All of it would have seemed as practiced as it was in an earnest attempt to do what his parents insisted was important. And, he was sure, there would rarely if ever be a second date.

Daichi certainly empathized with the plight of these girls, but just as sincerely said, “It sounds like it was awful for you” to Cyrus.

“It was,” he agreed. “I’m very thankful to be here doing things like this rather than dating.”

Daichi nearly choked on his food. 

They'd been sharing a bed for about six months at that point. And, over that time, it’d become increasingly clear how many gaps Cyrus’s upbringing had left in his knowledge. Whether by a lack of necessity due to his wealth, or increased mandate because of it, he'd had to learn so much of what most adults already knew.

Daichi had long gotten used to the endless discovery process. But, it seemed, he could still be blindsided.

“Cyrus?”

“What?”

“This is a date.”

Cyrus looked at Daichi as if he’d grown a second head. “We’re eating street food.”

“Mhm.”

“In casual clothing.”

“Yeah. And we’re walking to a movie instead of getting a limo or whatever.” He shrugged. “None of that stuff is necessary for something to be a date.”

Cyrus seemed ready to debate, but then took a thoughtful bite of his pirozhki instead. 

“So a date,” he said finally, “Is simply going to a location with purpose.”

“And that purpose is to spend time with your partner, yeah,” he agreed. “You don't need anything else specific.”

“Hm…” he thought on it a bit more. “It still seems like a waste to create so many rituals and labels for something that has so few particulars attached to it.” He peeled down the paper to have more room to eat. “Especially if it is basically the same process as going someplace with any other relation.”

“I suppose it is,” Daichi agreed. “But I enjoy doing this with you, whatever you want to call it. So how do you feel about doing things like this more often?”

“I…” Cyrus wasn't the sort to blush, but he did sink into himself a bit when flustered. “I suppose I’m not opposed to it if this is really what you're expecting.”

“I'm glad,” Daichi agreed.

He smiled in his particularly small way. “Good. Then it's settled.”

“It is. And, for the record.” Daichi nudged his arm affectionately. “I love hearing how you explain things.”

Cyrus paused a bit over being told something he knew but very much liked hearing. “Well… Perhaps you'd like me to explain the new philosophy I'm working on.”

“Always.”

[popculturebuffet]

For part 2 of that Community ask, favorite episode for the main characters outside the initial Study Group with Chang, Dean, Duncan, Hickey, Frankie, and Elroy?

Chang: Chang's a tough one as as Ken Jong is a great comedic actor.. but they did some weird stuff with him. He was fine for seasons 2 and 3 and hit and miss in season 1, but afterwords they kinda.. had no idea what to do with this guy and wasted a talented performer, with ice cub head being the only thing I can think of his past season 3. Best Chang episode is the one where he gets fired, mostly for him taking a bat to jeff's car and it makring the transition from the sometimes overly cruel spanish teacher to mess.

Dean: Something Dean Pun! Jim Rash is a delight and it's no wonder they upped his role, weird obession with jeff, and apperances as the show went. He's the best. Best they eventually eased off on the stalking jeff gag as it hasn't aged well but otherwise it's a powerhouse performance with a lot of choices. But I gotta go with the obvious one: JESUS WEPT! from season 6. I have a soft spot for that season as you've seen as I watched it on yahoo when it came out originally and it has two now all time faviorite actors, in large part thanks to ducktales for paget). But while there are good dean episodes this one really get sto the core of the guy: His need to feel impressive, his doing so in the dumbest ways possible, and his tendecy to get cared away. And I will NEVER get tired of Jim Rash growling JESUSSS WEPT!.

Duncan: His name his duncan and he's here to sya he's gotta rap big in a rapping way he's got a real big penis and he drinks lots of tea. Duncan was a solid character, mostly helped by his constant lack of fucks given and being played by what would become one of my faviorite comedians, John Oliver. I mean that drunken bit of rapping lives free in my head. (As does his karmic punch to the head from Chang. ). He was a great presence in season 1 and decent in season 2... then vanished for most of the series as John Oliver had other stuff to do.. then came back.. then left again because it was his destiny. I do want to say the season 1 finale.. as a moment that's peak duncan. As an episode though the one from season 5 where he has an elaborate scheme to sleep with britta works. It shows him at his lowest, trying to do something horrible.. and then what little good is left in him not taking advantage of her and helping her. Had Oliver not gone on to make one of the best tv shows of all time, we could've seen omre but alas, fate had other better plans.

Hickey: I got nothing. Jonathan Banks is a good actor. He did his best. But HIckey never quite fit into the study group/save greendale comittee. I wouldnt mind seeing him in the movie, but he just didn't quite fit in the show. Granted that's because I want everyone who isn't chevy back for at least a cameo.. speaking of which.

Frankie: Frankie was a great addition. I do wish they did more with her, as we never really got to know her as a person and she liked it that way, but Paget Brewster was fantastic and added fresh energy to the show as the only adult in the room. That kind of role easily could've been thankless on a show this wacky and written or acted wrong, could've got old fast. Instead frankie was a needed calm in the storm. She needed to grow too, realizing greendale is just a clusterfuck you can't change and to roll with it and is at her best doing that , playing abed as the only person outside his schitck. She and Jim rash also made a great double act with her best episode being the advertising one. Her speech to him calling him so dumb while trying to comfort him is comic gold. Brewster was a welcomea ddition to the study group and I hope they give her a cameo in the movie at the very least.

Elroy: And upping the ante the other addition Elroy was also not given enough time to bake, but I feel they still got their money's worth for one of the greatest actors of all time. I already loved keith david, so Elroy was an easy sell for me. But my god did he eat. From his first epiosde to his last David proved he was the national treasure he is, nicely slotting into the old man slott but like Hickey before him, not being the same as pierece. He had pierce's elderly uncle vibes but instead of your conspiracy loving 4th divorce uncle he's your fun give no fucks second divorce uncle. Pairing his silky voice with rediuclous lines and fun antics keith david really was made for this show and if he's not in the movie because they want to get back to THE CORE it's a damn shame. As for best episode.. that's easy. The easiest choice out of all of these: the wedding episode. Elory's addiction to encouraging white people is such a community concept and David sells it perfectly, with all the satire inherent. And of course we got THAT'S A MAN WHO KNOWS HOW TO MARRY HIS OWN COUSIN!

Side note I just remembered... something I wanted since Ducktales began that sadly didn't come to past was for all the main cast of community, or at least the bulk to guest star. Sadly we only got Yvette, Jim, Pagett , Keith and of course Danny. Apparently getting every member of that cast wasn't a priority for them. But we got some good ones. Also would've loved to see Jenny Slate both because I love her in anything and for obvious ben schwartz shaped reasons.

[rockofeye]

I saw somewhere talk that Puff Daddy aka P Diddy has a tattoo of Erzulie Danto on his back. Another person says that’s a mistake, and it’s actually Erzulie Mapyang.

I don’t know enough about Vodou to tell which it is, if any. I was wondering if you could tell me your thoughts on it.

This is just speculation on my part. But I was thinking that maybe Puff started serving a lwa. And that lwa is eating him because of all the bad things he’s been up to the past few decades. Like maybe the retribution he’s dealing with now is from angering a lwa. Since he seemed to have gotten the tattoo pretty recently, and then all of a sudden his life started falling apart. Before this, it seemed like the feds just looked the other way. Just wondering what you think may be going on with that situation.

He's had that tattoo for awhile, at least five or six years. Maybe it's a thing, maybe not; he wouldn't be the first celebrity to ask something of the lwa or be invested in relationships with them, and he wouldn't be the first to get a tattoo in the hopes people would think he is invested. He is a sociopath, and so appearances are just as important--if not more so--than actual substance.

This isn't a lwa eating him up; this is the consequences of decades of bad behavior finally catching up to him. In another lifetime, I worked in the music industry (way back when), and none of what is coming out in public view was ever really a secret nor is it isolated. I was pretty low level overall, and the shit I saw in my little corner of the world was deeply unsettling. I can't imagine what I would have seen had I had the capital to move higher.

He isn't the first person to do this kind of stuff and he won't be the last. This is how people with massive amounts of money and inherently flawed personalities move; they take advantage of what they want when they want without ever thinking there could be consequences, because money makes consequences evaporate...until it doesn't.

Federal agencies never really look the other way. They just don't care until a particular bar has been met; either it is so vile, so visible, or so poorly handled that it can't be ignored, and then they go in. The stuff he is charged with (RICO/racketeering, human trafficking, etc) dates all the way to 2008, and those kind of charges take a long time to build to. The federal government does not file a RICO case unless the conviction is certain; , it is really the only time you can say that someone is honestly guilty without seeing anything further...the burden of proof to bring those charges is incredibly high, and the federal government does not lose. This case was built long-term, and their witness and co-conspirator lists are very likely LONG. They haven't even gotten around to charging other people, because it's likely folks are going to agree to testify to avoid charges. This isn't new or sudden, it's been happening. The publicity is new.

The lwa (or any other spirit community) don't need to lift a finger in any of this because why would they waste their effort? All they have to do is nothing, and just sit and watch the downfall. The lwa don't need to be angry, because--if they did deal with him--they already knew who he was before he got to them and knew he would hang himself when the time was right. They operate very differently than people do, so they're not going to react or process how we react or process, or approach situations how we would approach them. They are not infallible or all-knowing, but they see way further and way farther than we do and know way more about the potential outcomes. If he was involved, they knew before he even got close to the present moment who he was and what he stands for.

If anyone is getting good spiritual guidance in this whole mess, it's Cassie. Her moves were brilliant. She got him to shut the fuck up about her almost overnight, then got an admission, and publicly positioned herself in opposition to everything before it all came out....and it all happened really publicly, so everyone sees her in a positive light. My guess is that folks knew this was coming for awhile because questions started being asked. In a RICO case, the feds look very, very closely into everyone around their target, including significant others etc. I bet Cassie got wind of it and decided she wanted none of this heat. She was around him a long time and saw a lot of shit (in addition to what he did to her), and she made her move before anything else could drop. Even victims can be charged as accessories.

Retribution in Vodou is really the act of people, not lwa. The lwa don't need to expend the effort to lash out to get their messages across. Instead, they do what is infinitely more frightening and potentially life-destroying, and that is just sitting down and staying still. They stop contributing anything that they have done that has benefitted you; all protections, stability, luck, financial success, etc. You have a life where you have been stripped of what they blessed you with because of your actions/inactions and missteps, not because of their decisions. They will have told you and warned you and showed you the path(s) that you needed to take to change the outcomes that were coming for you and told you what the consequences would be if you didn't...and you didn't listen or didn't do it or thought you could act in a way they wouldn't see.

And so there you are, all alone with the dawning realization that You Fucked Up. Sometimes that's fixable, and sometimes it's not. Sometimes you can crawl back to them and they'll show mercy, but sometimes that mercy is it's own consequence: maybe you're going to prison for 20 years instead of the rest of your life. Maybe you're going to live, but you'll never hold a regular job again. Maybe they'll let you come back, but every ceremony you go to you are publicly reminded that you don't like to listen. Or maybe it's not fixable, and you're just going to bob along for the rest of your life knowing you blew your own opportunity.

Basically, the lwa don't have to do a thing to punish their people because by the time we get to where we are experiencing the punishment, it's really just the consequences of our repeated actions against our own best interests. When they get to where they just shrug their shoulders about you, you're way down the road of your own demise.

So...if he was dealing with the lwa, they shrugged their shoulders about him a long, long time ago. They don't need to actively participate in his downfall because he assured his own outcomes by the sum of his own actions. He's honestly done a way more thorough and complete job of assuring his own destruction than the lwa ever could, and now he gets to Diddy bop all the way to the SHU. Maybe he and R Kelly can get adjoining cells and write sad songs together!

[birgittesilverbae]

One word prompt: Mary x Shannon, "reasonable"

Mary's key misses the lock once, twice, three times before she finally manages to slot it into place. She stumbles forwards as the door opens, but catches herself before pitching over. "Honey, I'm home," she sing-songs as she toes off her boots and kicks them to the side of the hall. 

"I'm in the studio," Shannon's reply comes, and Mary follows her voice, a laser-guided missile. 

The studio, in the rear of the house, overlooks the back garden, but Shannon's got the shades pulled down against the dark of night. She's bent over the desk, reaching out blindly for the mug of tea that fills the room with the clean scent of peppermint. 

Mary's brain catches up to her body and she darts forward to redirect Shannon's hand towards the mug clearly labelled 'Not Paint'. A waste of money, really, given how frequently she finds Shannon unintentionally drinking muddied water from the 'Paint' mug.

Shannon spins in her chair and smiles up at her over the rim of her mug. "Welcome home."

"Thank you." She leans over to kiss the crown of Shannon's head and catch a glimpse of her work. "Did you get a new colour set?"

Shannon hums her agreement. "A handmade set from that vendor at the market."

"You went to the market without me?"

"Don't pout, I got you some of those almond bars you like."

"You're forgiven." Mary relieves Shannon of her mug and sets it on the desk before sitting astride her lap. "For that, at least. Not for underselling how gruelling the PR circuit would be."

Shannon's hands land at the small of her back, the cool of her palms evident even through Mary's shirt. "I said the schedule was reasonable. I never said it was going to be easy."

"I'd hardly call sixteen cities in five days with multiple cross-country flights reasonable."

"Would you rather have had to stay on the road longer?"

Mary sighs, swallows back a yawn. "No. I'm just tired, Shan. And I missed you." Shannon opens her mouth, but Mary shakes her head. "Yes, we'll be apart for an exponentially longer period of time when I'm gone. Yes, we've done the long separation before. Doesn't mean I can't bitch about having to give up some of the time we've got left."

"Fair enough. I missed you, too," Shannon replies with a soft smile. She tips her face up, and Mary takes the invitation, leaning down to kiss her. 

Mary cradles Shannon's face between her hands, fingertips mapping the sharp border of her jaw, and tilts her head, deepening the kiss. Shannon's hands skate over the curve of her ass, slide into the back pockets of her jeans, and Mary laughs into her mouth. 

"Very high school of you," she comments when they break apart and Shannon's hands remain firmly in place.

"What can I say?" She strokes her thumbs over the denim. "Gotta take advantage of the time we've got left."

[stateswscarlet]

In my opinion LOA coaching in general most of the time is a complete waste of money. What if the person doesn’t apply correctly? Or they get hit with a bunch of misinformation, there’s people like for example Sammy Ingram that charge a lot of money for advice and yet don’t even study source or have any personal experiences with the law. It comes off as vile asking for money in a community of already vulnerable and desperate people for something that may not even help them in the first place. If you want money so much, why don’t you manifest it? But these are just my two cents about this. 😌

comparing s*mmy to edward art is a crime!! lol

but yes i do agree to an extent, thats why if people do choose to help others 1-1 with the law they need to make it VERY clear beforehand that coaching is a luxury + all information is found for free. Its really important to filter out potential clients so that we don’t take advantage of anyone desperate willing to just throw money in hopes that it will “work”. (at least thats how I handle my clients - everyone fills out an application prior to even doing anything so I can make sure everyone is well and sane) also no gatekeeping of any content or being like “you need xyz program to get your sp!” that shit is so cringe and obviously out to get vulnerable people

unfortunately its really sad that there are people out there taking advantage of others, and i feel like the responsibility is shared between both coaches and clients. i also dont agree with charging like insane amounts of money (like thousands) for something related to the law because like…. why……😭 for thousands they better turn into my inner man and fulfill on my behalf LMAOOO

in terms of money, i see it as simply paying for a 1-1 service. it has nothing to do with “manifesting” money since you can manifest being a millionaire and having tons of money and still not want to give your time away for free when youre providing a service, especially one that involves listening to peoples circumstances, triggers, etc. people pay for life coaches/dieticians/psychics and they cant 100% make sure we apply, but we pay for the streamlined knowledge anyways.

[khiphop-discussions]

RAP:PUBLIC Ep.7 Part 2 Thoughts

Ep. 7 part 2!

Part 1

Damn, Owen really sliding for Marv. I really wanted Marv to come back too!

I wish I'd have seen ep.7 before I saw the conversation Owen and Marv had after their team lost on ep.6. It makes a lot more sense now. Hindsight is 20/20. I'm very touched by how much Owen seems to care for Marv. I can't even lie.

I'll refrain from commenting on Owen anymore. Only on his verses if necessary.

I always regret stuff I say about Owen. Whether it's good or bad. That's a HUGE sign I need to shut the fuck up about him and keep his name out my mouth. I have a bias against him for past stuff he's said or done so my commentary on him will very likely be useless. It is what it is.

Loopy says to Owen "Don't do anything you'll regret"...this is so fucking funny given the context of everything I just said lol

James An is the best alarm clock. He wakes them up so gently lol.

Shyboiitobii be having the most random scenes dude. The editors are funny.

A rapper withdrew. It was Daniel Jikal. I get it. This show is fucking intense. Living there? Constantly changing missions and variables? It's a lot. It feels like a waste since people who wanted to stay got eliminated but I truly understand his decision. I hope he's doing well after leaving.

Block 5 changed the leader to Khundi Panda because JP is kinda sick. So Khundi will go recruit. It looks like they will take Owen and Double Down.

Block 2 wants to recruit Jtong but WHY would he want to leave?

Oh shit...Jtong WANTS to leave?! He approached Khan?! Oh that's unexpected. He says he wants diversity.

Obviously, Block 1 wants him to stay. He's such a good piece in the puzzle. I wouldn't want him to leave my block either.

Jtong is comfortable with his block already. But he wants to change too. So many people want him. It's a hard choice.

Now, Since is trying to recruit Kaogaii?!? After rejecting his recruitment offer?!? The twists and turns of this show!

Boi B was solicited by Geegooin. So now the plan is to tell Since that Boi B will come if she doesn't. So they (or at least Kaogaii) are hoping to turn them against each other Oh shit...Block 6 is going hard!

JP from 5 might want to leave too. It WOULD be advantageous if Since leaves. She left. So let's see why Block 4 will do from here.

Personally, if I was a competitor, I wouldn't trust anyone who changes teams. It shows they are willing to jump ship any time things don't go their way. As a viewer, I don't care tbh. Cause I wanna see my faves win lol.

If only the leader remains then the block will close and be absorbed by another group.

Block 4 recruits group 8 which was just 99 Nasty Kidz. Makes sense on their end. They get to move all the block money to group 4. We haven't seen any block money get used yet so it'll be interesting to see how that comes into play.

Polodared is like "If it doesn't work, you can come back". At least, the door is still open. Jtong has it good!

I'm kinda inspired by Jtong to be honest. Stay comfortable or go after experiences you want (even if scary and uncertain)? I want to be more like Jtong and go for it!

Now Chaboom is paying $15,000 so Block 2 will recruit foggyatthebottom. Shyboiitobii is on that team. So omg, now we'll get to see them interact. OMG I gotta find time to watch these episodes earlier because this would have been so useful for answering that ask from the other day (Context for those who didn't see it: someone asked if shyboii and foggy had beef. I doubted it but there was some interesting videos on the internet so I wasn't for sure. Foggy was at tobii's club performance a few days back so that confirmed they were cool. But this episode would have answered the question if I wasn't so far behind. I gotta catch up but I'm so busy!!!)

Anyway, Chaboom goes to Block 3

My internet is acting up now so I'll take that as a sign to take my ass to sleep! I'm stopping @ ~2:04 so ~33 minutes left in this episode! I'll pick it back up ASAP!

[adelrambles]

Ohhh I would love to see IDW Bishop interact with the others.

Like, 2003 Bishop already was a jerk, but that dude just takes it even further.

OH BOY ENABLEMENT WAHOO!!

I definitely agree that IDW Agent Bishop gives the 03 original a run for his money in terms of awfulness. While he does have more of a "tragic backstory" per se, 03 Bishop somehow has more honor and redeeming qualities in comparison. The way both their respective stories end contributes a lot, too.

SO, first: a brief observation on IDW's character. There will be spoilers for those who haven't read the comics yet, just as an fyi. Bear with me, it's been a few months since I read up so I might bungle some of the details.

Jonathon Bishop is certainly less formidable in terms of accolades than his predecessors. He didn't found EPF, he inherited it, and it is not a well-oiled machine, extension of his own will the same way it is for 03-- in fact, a lot of his subordinates are written as individuals and don't seem to like him as a person, much. But what makes this Bishop scary is how he is driven beyond what should be reasonable. Even in situations where it would probably be beneficial for him to back off, he tends to keep pushing, anyway. He'll put himself in a rough spot so long as he can ensure he'll be screwing over his target, too.

This Jonathon guy pretty explicitly has the capacity to care about others, too, he genuinely loves and respects his father. Which is what makes it all the more terrifying that he was willing to kill him at his own convenience-- once again, just to ensure he could rip away his enemies' advantage. He justifies it after the fact, like he gave his father a proper death, better than wasting away in a nursing home, but personally I think that's just a cope. While we know he can care, he very seldom offers that to anyone else. With his own employees he kinda tends to be downright mean, or at the very least blunt and unconcerned.

IDW's Agent Bishop is one that sees the entire world as hostile, so being on his side doesn't really spare you. The only person we know he didn't see as an enemy was his father. He has been faced with so much fear and judgement over his true appearance that he is desperate to prove himself just as human as everyone else; he believes the appearance of being human is what lends one humanity-- when, in fact, it's how one treats those around them. This is why he leans so hard into Othering anything non-human, to justify his own place in the world, and also why the mutants tend to have more humanity than he ever did.

This is also why he appears to have much less of an honor system than his 03 counterpart. IDW Bishop is FAR more emotional and a little less professional than the other. He acts based on what will make him feel the least uncomfortable, working backwards with his logic to justify his actions. Intelligent as he is, he isn't reasonable. His ego is far greater because it's built on a DEEP and intense insecurity with himself. (In comparison, 03 Bishop may have a dubious sense of personhood, but he has never been shown to be unsure of his right to exist or his place in the world.)

Also btw it's cool af that he's a blend between 03 and 2012 Bishop's concepts. Like I can't praise enough how creative that is, especially with how smoothly it fits into the lore of IDW and their Utrom. The fact that he's still human, but his mech also originates from Utrom tech that EPF salvaged is just SO COOL. I think this alone would cause both other Bishops extreme discomfort lmao

As an aside, I've seen some of the fandom attack his true appearance and that's kinda fucked up. He thinks it makes him lesser, but it doesn't. The way he looks is not the root of the problem, it's the way he was treated because of it and the way he internalized that. He needs to make an enemy out of mutants in part because deep down he believes what people like those scientists in the flashback said about him. So like, yeah, it's kinda a bad look when fans acts the same way as those dudes. Literally there are so many better things to insult IDW Bishop on. I mean you've seen his general personality, right? The way he acts is what makes him a monster.

(Hmm. I said this was supposed to be brief, didn't I? Woops.)

NOW! COMPARISONS!

There is a LOT to delve into between IDW and 03. They have very similar plots on the surface, but every fine detail is so very different. IDW is a fanatic, more at the mercy of his emotions and whims than I think he even realizes. 03 is driven to unreasonable lengths, as well, but he is surprisingly cold about it, when you look into his actions deeper. While IDW reacts and then works backwards to justify it, 03 is shown to be able to suppress his impulses and strategize properly, with his more fanatical qualities being a fun little bonus he indulges in sometimes. This manifests in their respective success rates; IDW often ends his confrontations with a loss of something, culminating in his final confrontation and death. 03, on the other hand, tends to walk away successful a good chunk of the time, and even when he doesn't he usually gets something out of it, anyway.

Their ages have a lot to do with these differences and how they can be interpreted, too. 03 Bishop is old, he straight up comes from a bygone era. Of course his thought process would be a little wild and off-the-wall to most people, his circumstances are so unique and he is so removed from what a normal person's experience might look like. IDW has a normal human lifespan, so he has a little less room for understanding (though granted, he did not have a very common upbringing, either.)

Another big one is that 03 does not give a damn about threats originating from Earth. This is why he kinda disregards mutants beyond their usefulness to his science-- and that one time he almost accidentally caused an apocalypse, but I digress. 03 Bishop is still like, a xenophobic motherfucker, but he doesn't have it out for mutants or avians or Y'Lyntians or what have you, because working within his logic, they belong to earth. It's not especially about looks, to him, the same way it is for IDW. IDW, on the other hand, hates anyone that isn't specifically human, and wants them dead.

IDW's motivations are very internal. The fears that fuel him come from an intense sense of not belonging, of being Other'd and feared by the people around him. He projects that onto an external enemy so he can deny it. The fear that motivates 03 is an external one. He is terrified of extraterrestrial forces taking away his sense of security and control, fueled by his extremely traumatic abduction. It created an Us vs Them in his mind where he was on the side far weaker. Earth was safe, on earth he understood how things worked, but in the sky there was confusion and agony. He endeavored to ensure the sky could never bring that down to the earth.

John Bishop is a monster, but he's a monster that can be bargained with. Jonathon Bishop is a monster, and if he decides you're one, too, he'll seek to destroy you no matter the consequences.

Now, 12 Bishop is such a departure that he can only be vaguely compared with IDW (and basically not at all with 03-- though his disposition might be comparable to Fast Forward Bishop's.) Specifically, 12 Bishop might as well be the exact opposite to IDW Bishop in every way. He is extremely measured; even when he's clearly frustrated, we can see him tempering himself to try solve the issue at hand. He has proven to be notably selfless, often prioritizing the safety of others (even when the people of earth should be aliens with a fraction of his lifespan, to him,) over his own. He seems to function under the assumption that every living thing has a right to a life, and will act accordingly to protect that. He's basically the antithesis to everything the IDW version stands for imo.

One thing that fascinates me, as well, is that each incarnation of Bishop has a wildly different age range. 03 is about 230-something, 2012 Bishop is likely older than the planet Earth itself, and IDW is like, 40. He's the only one we know so far that has a normal human lifespan

On the prompt of any of them interacting: the drama potential here is great. Like with their ages, all the Bishops also have WILDLY different goals.

03 Bishop has a passing scientific interest in mutants, but his goal of protecting earth from outside forces does not really concern them that much when you get down to it-- he's more often than not busy doing his own thing, and clashes with the turtles tend to be incidental (after their initial introduction; he got what he wanted, so he didn't seek them out after.) In fact, I strongly suspect after a point he would begin to see the turtles as more useful alive, considering the amount of times they've been integral to protecting earth.

12 Bishop is straight-up an ally and friend to the turtles. Their goals align in a common need to defeat Krang Prime, but he goes beyond that to make sure they and their home are safe, too. It's specifically noted he's not supposed to get involved and help them like this, but he does anyway because he's a genuinely kind person (and a responsible adult, even, who has been shown to not want to put teenagers in the line of fire more than necessary. But hey, we'll save that for a future post of his own.)

IDW Bishop specifically despises anything non-human, and goes out of his way to target mutants. He is fueled by deep-running insecurities about his own appearance, projecting his own fear at being percieved as a monster onto external "threats." He can't feel like a monster if they're the REAL monsters. Compared to them, he's human, he thinks. He'd despise the other two for their percieved complacency and ignorance.

IDW and 03 definitely would not get along, they've got the exact wrong mix of "too similar" and "just different enough." But both would absolutely HATE 12 lmao. Specifically, 12 being an alien bearing the same name as them would hit IDW too close to home with the similarities in their body situation-- which, yknow, tends to manifest as a murderous obsession, with him. 12 generally tries to seek peaceful resoltuion when possible, but I can't imagine he'd have a very high opinion of the other two, either. Considering his strong sense of justice, he'd probably be down for a fight to the death.

And since I'm on the topic of IDW, I want to take this opportunity to enthuse about two other EPF members original to this series that I am very much attached to. The first of which being Wayne Bishop, himself. THIS guy is so interesting to me, for how little we get on him. As this universe's founder of EPF, he's instantly got so much going on, already. He's either former CIA or former FBI, and slowly moved into investiagting UFOs and other paranormal occurrences in an official capacity. He acts like a very respectable professional, but you KNOW there's gotta be a little quirkiness in this old guy to take that route. And he's got FAMILY DRAMA which is always very fun. He struggles to balance his heavy workload with being a family man, to the point where I think it's implied his marriage falls apart? And his solution is to involve his son in his work, quite literally, letting Jonathon stay in one of the facilities and spending a lot of resources in ensuring he will be able to pass as "normal" if he wants to. He had his son's mech designed after himself. He loves his kid and his wife very much and he still fucked it up. He's so interesting for that.

The other is AGENT RAVENWOOD BABY WOOOOO. She is so damn cool, I feel like I might enthuse too much to be able to make any coherent points. Her design, her DESIGN. I feel like she also borrows-- or has in common-- a lot of concepts from 03 Bishop that were not inherited by either Wayne or Jonathon. She's a failed human experiment that now has longevity and a strange body-- one that offers benefits and drawbacks alike. What's fascinating here is that she worked closely with Wayne in EPF's early days, and volunteered to undergo experimentation as part of the organization's research. She and Wayne were friends, and that makes her tense relationship with his now-grown son very interesting, to me. She also proves to be empathetic and willing to try and understand the mutants as people, though her efforts were wasted on Bebop and Rocksteady. I think she's so dang rad and I want to see more of her so bad. Especially now that her friend's son and murderer has died, too.

I also need to shoutout IDW Stockman. I love that guy so much. He might be my favorite incarnation of the character so far ngl (though Mutant Mayhem has Giancarlo Esposito voicing him so. This may change.)

To round us out, here's a fun little headcanon/theory I have in my back pocket: in any universe where specifically John Bishop, double-centenarian doesn't appear, it means he just never got abducted by aliens. He lived out his days in the 1800s with a normal human lifespan. Maybe he's somewhere on the the IDW Bishops' family tree idk

Anyway, thank you so much for the ask and enabling me to just ramble ad nauseum, hope this was what you were looking for lol!

[numinati]

20 PATRON CELEBRATION DUMP

Hey y'all!!

Thank you guys so much for 20 members!! I know that might not sound like a lot, but I seriously never thought I'd get this far. Especially with the wigga. 😅

Seriously though, thank y'all so, so much for all the support you've given me. Here's to better things all 2024 and beyond!

To celebrate getting 20 members, here's a simple, miscellaneous dump. You get three cosmetics, a string mod, a career, a sim, and a build buy item. Enjoy!!

VICTORIA BROWS

PRETTY GIRL MOLES

FOUR HORSEMEN TATTOOS

- Hand traced from the OG pics

- Three swatches for each design

DIASPORA FLAGS

- 79 swatches, 6 dividers

- EA Mesh

PRETTY GOOD DISH OVERRIDE

Small string mod to replace the "fairly tasty dish" text in the moodlet.

VENEER TECH CAREER

Were you the child who gave their parents makeovers they didn't have the heart to tell you were bad? Do you want to feel as important as a doctor but don't want to waste your time on boring topics like gum disease? Are you a sadist?

If you fall into any - or all - of these categories, you'll love being a veneer tech.

Just because you ain't on some board doesn't mean you can't make board money! All you really need is some glue, gloves, and Invisalign, anyway!

Hell, if people cared about taking advantage of people, half the businesses out now would be closed. Shops shut all the way up. You deserve to get your bag too, right?

...maybe your first investment should be a lawyer.

This is a base game-esque career with four levels and two branches. Y'all know I am very new, and I couldn't find a tutorial on how to make active careers, so I apologize in advance for it being so bare. :(

I do hope y'all enjoy though!

Levels:

You just got your online certificate from the 6 hour seminar your favorite TikToker hosted and are now ready to service the streets with your dental expertise. The only problem is you don't have no expertise and are not a dentist.

But if that didn't stop your "mentor", why should it stop you? Try and make something shake for a little while. Worst comes to worst, you gotta flee the state... or the country...

...you really should look into that lawyer, friend.

Shade Room Famous

Due to the rampant amount of horror stories you have, your face is now plastered all over The Shade Room, the largest urban gossip blog in all of the US.

But to your surprise and mine tool - it seems like the saying about all attention is true, because people are now lined up your block waiting for the Smilez special.

Guess all you can do now is make sure your career lasts longer than your teeth.

Viral on TikTok

Fame looka nice on you, doesn't it? At least online fame does. After getting some shine on Shade Room, Hollywood Unlocked, The Neighborhood Talk, and even more, you've managed to rack up one million followers on TikTok. You're almost ready to release your own seminar!

Be careful, though, newfound fame brings newfound opposition. And with your multiple medical and ethical violations it won't take much to get unplugged.

The Plug

After all of the hours of hard scamming you put in, you've done it. You've got the fame, the fortune, the mid-tier rapper/influencer connections, and about 21 different YouTube videos about your crimes.

The only thing to do now is sit back, count up, and not get indicted.

And hey, if that doesn't work? At least you're making enough for a one way to Jamaica.

Branches:

Celebrity Scammer

Now, about that mid-tier clientele you had...

They are all big time now. And so are you! You've 'hustled' and 'grinded' your way to the big leagues.

No more barbershops. You're doing Future's teeth in the back of your mansion. Their teeth may decay, but your star certainly isn't!

It doesn't even matter how many people say you scamming. Or how many horror stories have turned into full on nightmares.

You're the Dr. Miami of teeth now. Can't nobody say anything about that!

Seminar Leader

Now, about that seminar you said you were gon start...

You did. In fact, the only two options on your website are to book and to, well, book.

In doing so, not only have you managed to stack up even more, but now you look wise and charitible to 5% of Instagram users. Win win!

It doesn't matter if most people think you still scamming. Or the fact you don't send out all the invites to people who signed up.

You're a business person now. Can't nobody say nothing about that!

HALANI HAYNES

(romantic- self assured - hot headed)

Only one outfit is done, the rest are an underwear set!

you can download all of this on my Patreon:

[pulchrasilva]

HI I SAW IN THE TAGS YOURE MAKING A CHARACTER TELL ME ABOUT THEM (THREAT) (I AM SO NORMAL ABOUT DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS)

YES I'LL TELL YOU ABOUT MY CHARACTER (finally)

Ok ok so she's a tiefling warlock (i almost made her a bard but then I realised I was just trying to make Noise 2 so I went with warlock instead. It didn't work very well)

So anyway, her name's Requital but she doesn't trust most people so everyone knows her as Talia (RequiTALIA get it). She's pretending to be a noble and thats the name of her alter ego.

Shes chaotic good and really hates the rich or anyone who takes advantage of others (even though she does it herself sometimes, shhh its tootally justified). I'd say her manner is like Janus Sanders but her like ideals are more Robin Hood. She loves stealing from people she thinks deserve it and she uses her noblewoman alterego to do that.

This is why Narula, an archfey, offered her a warlock pact. Narula is vengeful and wants to punish wrongdoers but she's been imprisoned in some kind of enchanted forest (this is my DMs backstory because for some reason we can't find any lore for Narula except her name) so she needed someone to do this for her. Obviously Requital was like hell yeah im doing that anyway, gimme powers. But if she gets too sidetracked or goes after someone Narula doesn't deem evil then she's gonna be in trooouble~

So yeah she's kinda bound to keep enacting her own form of justice on the world. BUT because she constantly surrounds herself with shitty people she's exacerbated her own trust issues and can't properly judge who deserves it anymore, which led to... problems.

She heard about a nobleman who was stockpiling wealth and assumed he was exploiting his people for his own gain. So she befriended him (she told herself that his kindness was just a facade like always) and stole all the money only to later learn that he wasn't hoarding the wealth. There was a blight plaguing his people and he'd been gathering funds to treat it. So by stealing the money, she'd actually prevented him from saving lives. More people died because of her AND she hurt someone who genuinely thought of her as a friend (and she maybe thought of as a friend too but she's not gonna admit that). So now she's trying to atone for that mistake.

All of her spells and stuff are about deception, illusion, disguise, etc (she's kinda useless in combat rip). So far she's made loads of people basically piss their pants with her Fey Presence. She's also scammed an elf diviner (i think they were a diviner at least?? They could tell the future and stuff) and managed to persuade them that she really was a noblewoman who was travelling and so didn't have much money with her but pretty please can she have that magic item she'll pay 25 of the 150 gold upfront and then have someone come back with the rest of the money soon (really hoping we don't see that elf again lol where am I gonna find 125 gold). One of the other party members overheard this and called bullshit so I had to roll with disadvantage but I nat 20ed and did it anyway!! (Obviously she's really pissed about that and is now holding blackmail over him)

Oh and in our session today she Fey Presence-ed a guy and then the SAME PERSON just BARGED IN and knocked out HER PRISONER!!!! and she's furious so she tried to kill him (multiple times) but his armour class is so high that all she managed to do was waste a spell slot and nearly stab herself lmao. Imagine a really angry kitten trying to scratch you but being held by the scruff of the neck thats her right now

In terms of appearance she's like kinda tall and pretty weak. Her skin is dark with bronze freckles and her eyes are jet black, her horns and tail are bronze and she wears her hair in long black locs which fade to red at the ends. Since getting to level 2 though one of her eyes has turned purple (like Narula's) and her horns have become more fey-like but she's been hiding this using Disguise Self so only she knows about it.