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rqs902 · 4 years ago

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yang chaowen is really a sensitive kid... man he brings out renyu's song's feels and then brings up ylq to relate to the lyrics bc he knows his friend isnt getting as much appreciation as himself. (this makes even more sense after ylq said he had been crying before ycw went onstage and ycw was comforting him... and then after ycw came off the stage, it was time for ylq to comfort him from crying TT) Their friendship is really something. But then ycw saying he just gets ripped for getting screentime for crying all the time ouch but i dont get the feeling that hes doing it for attention but maybe im becoming partly biased towards chaowen :)

Lol the fact that they focus so much on xzx and how hes favored by gjm but feels like it's unfair to be treated uncomfortably by other trainees as a result... all i can say is, what do u expect, of course the other kids will be salty, their lives are on the line and theyre getting nothing close to the attention you are, so unfortunately u cant win everything :(

Lol I see why everyone on twitter is annoyed at gjm... Jackson is literally trying to say something meaningful and mentor-like to su er and gjm literally interrupts with his own opinion.... jackson is like unable to finish his thought. and then when Cheng xiao is actually trying to give ma haowen advice, gjm just goes WELL I DISAGREE, THIS IS RENYU'S FAULT and everyone's like wtffffff???? And then he starts saying people can help Xinhai with his terrible dance (ouch) but renyu didnt help haowen sing and Huang enyu MY CHILD just goes: but dancing and singing are different....... and I'm just smh.... gjm really shouldnt act like he knows everything when hes the only mentor with zero actual relevant experience :( Poor renyu literally looks like hes about to burst into tears, ma haowen looks so sorry and appalled renyu's getting yelled at and none of the other mentors seem to agree with gjm lol

lets appreciate renyu’s song, its really good!!!

Lol this whole mentor segment is a mess but man chaowen and renyu won a lotta votesss ayyy

I think xue en seeing hwh as a pro rapper shows him humbling himself, since hes technically a more seasoned and popular idol performer

Cheng xiao fangirling over xue en I mean SAME hahahahahahaha awwwwww yzx being soooo genuinely happy for xue en is the cutest!!! Aw cto friendship and xue en crying :’) actually one thing ive noticed i feel like yzx seems like a genuinely kind and cheerful friend, maybe people are bashing him bc he pushed off some leaderly responsibilities to lin mo in the last round but maybe hes just not someone to take on a strict leader role (looks at aj from afo...) and realized that since lin mo has such experience and is really good at it, it makes sense to respect his experience and skill and let him take on that role. of course its unfortunate that means lin mo worked extra for less recognition, but i think it seems like yzx really respected and admired him so im hopeful what happened wasnt due to mean intentions

watching chen junhao feeling lost oh man :/ maybe he hadnt fully prepared himself for the idol life when first coming on this show. its unfortunate reality that in this kind of idol survival show, the focus is more on stage presence and face and performance, rather than the music itself. Hopefully he really feels that hes found a path forward through this performance. This is a really real way to present him but I'm sad theres not as much focus on li chenxu when this is hissss song

Man both the self composed songs are really good!! Mann them making this song a dance song is really hard to watch for li chenxu bc its makes it hard for him to shine at his own song which is sad :( also lzx's rap is questionable lol but cjh's vocal part in the middle part is so emotional, I hope he felt like he was able to express himself fully there

Lol does gjm not realize they didnt have a choice to not dance. Lollllll cheng xiao literally said they had too much to do and tried very hard but he didnt listen.

Aww jackson teaching them about team work :') o gosh I have PTSD about jin fan getting classified as a vocal now after uuu..... also not surprised the entire segment was about sxl and even the judging portion lol....

Oof Jin fan's voiceeee I love

Man why does Jin fan always get stuck in not dance songs ><

more appreciation for xu zhaohao vocals pls!!! imo sxl has a poor attitude :/ he doesnt perform calmly under pressure and isnt doing well at making a good atmosphere for practice

LOL why do i feel like lin mo is always saying "song" things hahahah hes really a kid

but mannn yan an just walking into the elevator is so oof

Aw duan xuyu is too nice... but I guess this is the leader in him coming out

Aw yan an immediately encouraging xikan when he lost the center to him

Lolll xikans little “heheh” when he won

Mannnn ngl even tho yan an leaves the show, I kinda wish he had a bigger role in this perf bc it's literally like his jam.... chinese style influenced dance.... I wish he had at least 1 memorable dance move, like I feel like Luo Joe already had one in the last perf and he has one again here (and hes very talented and he deserves recognition!) but yan an has yet to really show anything and im scared hes gonna just disappear soon :/

They all did so well tho!!! Truly a group of dancers. Really made me want to rewatch the whole thing immediately. altho the beginning I cant unsee the lin mo meme LOL

and xikan did really well!! His stage presence is real. And hes put effort into his facial expressions

Luo Joe being cute is iconic

Aw yan an cheering on lin mo when revealing his votes!!

Aw I'm surprised 100 ways kids didnt get more votes.... lol ngl i feel like this show is just randomly adding vote bonuses in for random reasons not prespecified for kids they like.... cough gjm yet again

but oo the next ep looks fun hahahha im excited for a happier ep thats not as stressful.

Ycw keeping it real 2020: "im not good at controlling emotions.... i hope if you want to cry or laugh do it loudly, dont care about what other people think"

ok so maybe im liking more new kids than i expected, but i think thats a good thing that the show is making them likable and some kids are able to stand out! honestly i realized I kinda can see why they eliminated so many to begin with. It's sad but also kinda nice tbh (ouch, i know) bc if they really got rid of the ones who have less skill, it makes it easier for the others who dont have to teach from zero (cough lin mo) And then those with skill get to have at least 3(?) stages, unlike qcyn where jin fan got eliminated after only doing 1 silly stage lol The skill level of the stages is also raised, like there's multiple groups of almost all people who are well qualified. im sure the kids are happy that they get to do more stages, im sure that means a lot to them.

At least on snzm they attempt to give most trainees a positive light and give screentime to more than just the top 10 trainees. and they allow someee time for vocals, dancers and rappers to get appreciation (even tho dancers are still dominating lol)

but yea honestly I disliked the judging on pdc2019 too tho so at least the judges here can be supportive... at times. it is SUPER biased and gjm is very vocal despite his lack of knowledge tho lol

it's so bad bc I feel like my standards for shows are so low at this point. my standards get lowered with every show I watch. It's like I guess the snzm songs are okay bc I hated the ones on afo more so at least the stages aren't thattt bad lol At least the rules/general setup aren't as terrible as they were on afo..... at least the camera time isnt as biased as it was on qcyn.... sigh the show isnt doing great, and itd be best if the show would help the tygers get more popular, but I guess its prob better than just doing nothing at star master lol.

qcyn was just painful to watch from "spirit of the knight" onward bc momo literally was buried, mistreated, disrespected and taken advantage of. at least on snzm he gets some screentime and positive recognition.....

tbh i like snzm, maybe thats an unpopular opinion, but at least there have been some really great stages, where the kids really get to shine. at least i can confidently say that bc of snzm, i have met some new kids who i will be sure to follow for new music moving forward :)

#rants

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iwritefanficsometimes · 5 years ago

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about Switched at birth AU. what was the media`s reaction to all of this?(i hope it was not asked before) I think you said something like how Tony, a boy from Nebreska gonna deal with this. I was wondering what actually Media did when they found out Tony was a mechanic, Howard`s prodigy son. How did Tony and Stephen dealt with all this media frenzy. Did anyone try to use Tony`s naivety(like that Princess Diaries scene, lol, thats the first scene i could come up) for their 5 minute fame?

Omg, the media is going to make a mess of Ev👏ery👏thing👏

Like, the media is going to be one of the main antagonists. Besides you know, their parents who are kind of having understandable but uncompassionate reactions to the accidental kid switch.

So, the first people to tear Tony apart are the business people. The investors/shareholders, whatever are gonna trying to tear Tony apart first and manipulate him second when he “stands up to scrutiny,” and then ultimately betray him, because they (obedieah) suck.

So, Tony gets a little bit over a year of a grace period before he goes to college and the scandal hits the news (I think. I haven’t done the math yet). At first they try to keep it hush hush. The name that they put on the rosters is Tony Strange, but legally he is “Tony Stark” as soon as they sign all the paperwork and Howard pulls his strings to get it to happen ASAP.

So, they kept the scandal out of the press and Tony’s face out of the press and away from the parties and the limelight because they wanted Tony to acclimate (become better at high society socialization) before they said anything. The word made rounds with the big guys, but they couldn’t be bothered to alert the press because most of them wanted Howard on their good side and knew Howard would fuck the shit out of them if they screwed with his plans for Tony.

So, the press gets wind of the switch when Stephen is in his senior year of high school and Tony is in his first year of university. Stephen had to sign a thing that said he wouldn’t put anything with his face on the internet, just in case someone from the media saw it and got any ideas.

Well, Stephen got drunk at a friend’s party and the pictures got posted and the media saw it and got ideas.

“Why is Stephen Stark tagged in this photo in the middle of nowhere Nebraska? Well, this reporter has the scoop.” And then they look into it and they see the name change docs, and the custody transfer docs. (They shouldn’t have access to those, but bribes.) Stephen get in a lot of trouble with his parents, the media swarms the school. He loses a hella lotta friends (before that he was telling them that he was an exchange student, figuring that he could get away with it for his last year and then just get away.)

So, the media swarms MIT, and Tony stops going to classes (see the post about Rhodey and Tony becoming friends for more on Rhodey’s part in this). His phone is ringing non-stop with people. Jarvis has called him like 3 times and Tony hasn’t answered because he barely knowns Jarvis. By this point Stephen and Tony have been sending letters back and forth for a few months, and Stephen is texting him apologizing, because fuck, he didn’t mean to out them. He’s so sorry. “I know you said emergencies only but this feels like an emergency.”

So the media is 1) really into the drama of Howard Stark’s kid being switched at birth. The story breaks hard and it’s all over the papers, gossip rags and internet. They want to know everything about the new stark son, Tony. He was a mechanic on his parent’s farm? How is he in any way qualified to run Howard’s business? What does this mean for the future of the company? They found a local paper article about his winning a big state wide welding contest, and a physics bowl, and a robotics contest... Makes a lot of sense, Stephen Stark was never this talented. (Yes, they say that. It hurts Stephen. My poor baby.) 2) never going to leave Stephen or Tony alone. But mostly Tony. Stephen is a cast off, they don’t care about him nearly as much as Tony. Tony sells more papers because he has more to fail at. (They really want him to end Howard’s company because of incompetence for the drama.) And Tony has a couple break downs because he can’t deal with all this scrutiny. He grew up in small town, so it’s not like he’s unused to being scrutinized, but most of that was behind his back and kind of deserved. Now people talk shit about him that’s completely made up, or unfounded, or such a twisted version of the truth that it’s basically lies.

Tony doesn’t go through all this alone, obvi. Well, at first he does. Rhodey gets there eventually to help, and then Stephen finally gets ahold of him and talks with him (that’s when Rhodey and Stephen meet over the phone. Rhodey approves of Stephen.) Stephen and Rhodey both help Tony deal with the fame and the press, but it’s always going to be difficult for him. Eventually he develops a habit of wearing sunglasses in public to hide himself. Sunglasses become his signiture. He’s never without them

One day there’s going to be a really cute and emotionally intimate scene where Stephen takes Tony’s glasses off and tells him something sweet. Don’t know what yet, just have the visual. I’ll figure out the rest later.

The press makes Tony insecure before Howard ever has the chance to. He’s just a boy from Nebraska. He doesn’t have the mask that keeps him from internalizing that shit. he doesn’t have Howard’s damage to keep him from caring about what the press says. He takes the press uber personally.

Ask me about my Switched at Birth AU

#ironstrange switched at birth au #lysa writes

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staticscreenwriting · 6 years ago

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the same sunset - Chapter 1

Chapter 1 - Whole Lotta Love

The loud roaring of an engine breaks through the silence as Billy Hargrove races along the dimly lit streets of Hawkins Indiana. It’s like one minute the light rain covered the small town in a veil of peace and serenity and the next it’s broken by the sound of a camaro and Led Zeppelin’s Whole Lotta Love blasting from the car radio and one angry boy screaming along and thumping his hands against the steering wheel to the beat of the song.

Billy feels the adrenaline rushing through his veins, from racing, from the party he’s just come from and from fighting Mitchel Greenfield. From living recklessly. From feeling alive. From feeling something — anything.

He’s going too fast and he’s way too intoxicated but there’s not stopping now. Not when he feels like this, untouchable. What else could he want from a night ? He was the center of attention at the party, held his keg stand record, got his dick sucked by not one but two girls, got to put rich boy Mitchel in his place and to top it all off he got to rub it all in Steve Harrington’s face.

He can’t let this feeling die. Not ever. Especially not tonight.

Not tonight.

As those thoughts run through his mind he can feel the euphoric frenzy drain from his system. The excitement and the buzz make way for what’s actually going on inside of him and he hates it. All night he’s been trying to push that to the back of his mind, numb it with reckless abandon. He’s been chasing highs to keep the lows at bay. And yet they’re creeping back in.

So he’s pushing down harder on the gas pedal. The world around him passes by in a blur of lights and shadows. Trees and trees and more trees. Fields. Cows. A Pumpkin patch. Then there’s houses, mostly small ones. Not cute and homely like his used to be back in California. No they’re all dull and sad looking. Just like the one he’s living in right now. Just like the people here.

Billy hates this town and everyone in it. It’s all pretend here. Perfectly happy nuclear families living their perfectly happy lives only they’re all miserable. All of them.

There’s some diner at the end of the road, he knows Carol and Tommy go there on their soppy date nights. Supposedly the burgers are good but what do these Hillbillies know about good burgers anyway ?

He’s going too fast. He notices this as the street curves right and his clammy hands grip the steering wheel tightly trying to steer the car in the right direction only for it to slither and swerve on the wet asphalt.

If this is how it ends, Billy thinks, at least he’s going out loud and fast. Then he chastises himself for being so fucking dramatic. Then he hears the crunch of the gravel beneath the wheels. Then the scraping of metal against metal as his baby smashes right into the red ford truck that’s parked in front of the diner.

And then it’s quite again. There’s just the rain and the night and the quiet town of Hawkins Indiana blissfully unaware of how fucked up everything around here really is.

It’s really kind of ironic, Billy thinks as he wipes away the blood dripping from his nose where his head hit the steering wheel, almost dying on his own birthday.

He doesn’t get out of the car. Doesn’t even care about the damage he’s caused. He just wants to sleep and mute the throbbing inside his head. He’s so tired suddenly. Completely exhausted. So when he closes his eyes for a mere second, he’s out like a light.

Light breaks through the fogged up window of his car as Billy’s eyes open slowly. His head is still throbbing, maybe even more so and it takes a moment for him to remember why and how he ended up here. When realization sets in, his heart sinks.

He’s caused an accident. His first ever accident. If there was one thing Billy always prided himself with, it was his unwavering ability to drive recklessly and not cause any harm or damage. Apparently he wasn’t even good at that after all, Neil might have a point in his constant belittling of Billy.

Oh shit, Neil.

At the thought of his dad finding out about what happened, Billy’s heart speeds up, he starts to feel insanely hot and extremely cold at the same time. His hands get clammy and he feels like someone is continuously putting pressure on his chest. Suddenly the car feels too small, too contained like there’s no room to breath.

When he get out and takes in the air, still heavy with morning dew and fog, it feels like his lungs don’t even expand all the way. It’s all shallow breaths and quick thumping heart.

He thinks this is what he should’ve felt like last night when the accident happened, when he could’ve actually died. But no, he was strangely calm then. Death seems like the easy way out compared to dealing with the shit he’s gotten himself into now. Compared to confessing this to his dad. Death seems easy compared to living.

Billy’s eyes wander towards the red truck that he’s crashed into. The entire drivers side of the car is fucked up. There’s a huge dent, pieces are missing or broken and everything is just a whole entire mess.

Billy Hargrove doesn’t cry a lot but, especially in public, but in this moment all he wants to do is break down and sob. His eyes are already watering and his breaths are still shallow. He thinks he might be having a panic attack.

How the fuck is he supposed to explain this to Neal ? It’s impossible. He can already feel the sting on his cheek. He wonders what story to tell people in school when they wonder about the inevitable black eye.

There’s so much going on inside him at that moment. Above all, he’s scared. It feels like time stands still and moves in lightning speed at the same time. His heart stopped and thumps a mile a minute. He’s numb and yet he’s on high alert. Maybe dying would’ve been the easy part.

“ Well good morning sunshine “ a deep voice speaks up from behind Billy.

As he turns around his eyes meet those of a stranger. He’s a tall burly man with a thick beard that’s slightly but surely turning from a dirty blond to a silver grey. He’s intimidating in stature but his eyes don’t look angry as much as they look determined.

“ That’s my car you smashed there “ Pete continues as Billy stays unresponsive except for his eyes who seem to latch onto every word Pete is saying, as if it takes a moment for Billy to fully register them as they come.

“ Thought you was dead for a second but then I noticed you were just dead asleep. You wanna tell me what happened there ? “

Where the fuck did his ability to drive perfectly even when way too fast, even when intoxicated, go? It was a reckless, irresponsible and fucking dangerous talent but a talent nonetheless and that was a win in Billy’s book.

Why did he fuck up so hard this time ?

“ I uh — “ his throat feels like sandpaper, his word are heavy as cement blocks. “ I’m dead “.

It’s the only thought running through his head. It’s like whenever he’s trying to form coherent sentences, he’s drawing a blank. He’s dead meat as soon as his dad finds out about this.

If it was only his car that was damaged, he’s just try to scrap together some money and get it fixed but it seems as if his only has a few scratches and dents while the truck’s side is damaged like a squashed beercan.

He’s hyperventilating. It’s too much. He can take a lot, has learned to cope, has gotten used to it but even Billy Hargrove has a limit. And that limit has been reached, crossed and exceeded in this moment.

“ Kid ? “ a big warm hand comes down on his shoulder and Billy involuntarily flinches. Those touches don’t usually come with warmth and care and worry. They come with pain and resentment and misplaced anger.

“ Hey, hey kid. I’m not gonna rip your head off or anything. Don’t worry “

It’s not him he’s worried about though. Billy wishes it was. Wishes that his biggest concern was the stranger who’s car he wrecked. Wishes he could go home and explain what happened to parents who cared about his well being. He wishes things were different.

But they aren’t. It’s a shit show all around.

“ My dad is gonna kill me “

Billy meets the Stranger’s eyes again. He looks concerned. Understanding. Kind almost. Billy can’t fathom why the fuck this guy shows him anything but animosity. He sure as hell doesn’t deserve the kindness he’s coming his way. He’s fucked up. His dad might actually have a point after all.

“ Look, kid. That’s my diner right there. Let’s go sit down, I’ll get you something to eat and then we can talk, alright ? “

Billy wants to say no. He wants to tell the guy that he’s gonna get the money somehow and pay him all the damage worth. He wants to walk the fuck away from this mess. Actually he just wants the earth to swallow him whole.

But none of that happened because as his mind works a mile a minute, all jumbled up and confused, his body doesn’t. It’s like his physical form is on autopilot, following the man into the diner and sitting down on a red leather seat that looks like it’s seen better times.

It’s warm and cozy in here, a nice change to the chilly air of a mid November day. While the guy runs towards the back of the diner, where the kitchen is located, Billy’s eyes roam around the room.

The cushioned booths look like they’ve seen better days and the ceiling fan in missing a blade. There’s only a few booths, maybe 5, and 4 seats by the counter. It seems like they were trying to stay with a red white and black color scheme but abandoned the idea halfway through.

Nothing in here really matches but there is a certain kind of charm about it, Billy has to admit. This might just be the only place in all of Hawkins that doesn’t pretend to be something it isn’t. It’s not perfect, it’s chaotic and mismatched and there’s things in here, like the waving cat figurine by the cash register, that clearly don’t belong here, but it’s not trying to deny it. It knows it’s imperfect and it’s okay if people know that.

Billy wishes he’d found this place under different circumstances.

A while later the man comes back, a plate filled with eggs and bacon in one hand, a steaming hot cup of coffee in the other. He sets them down in front of Billy and motions with his head towards the food. “Eat up !”

Billy is still flabbergasted by the irony of this situation. He’s so incredibly undeserving of the kindness, the food, the shelter. Hell, he doesn’t even deserve this man’s time.

“ I — I’m sorry “

Billy Hargrove isn’t one to say sorry. He’s living life at his terms, at his speed, with all the consequences and casualties that might pile up along the way. He doesn’t say sorry, ever.

Only this time he does because it’s the only thing there is to say. It doesn’t suffice but it’s a start.

The man is silent for a moment but Billy can feel his eyes on him. Not judging, but assessing him.

“ That’s good to hear. You do know I will have to tell your parents about this “.

Billy feels 5 years old again, being scolded for being a bratty child. Helpless, ashamed, sad. For the first time in a long time he’s being confronted with the reality he has created for himself. There’s only so much you can blame on the situation, on his family, his surroundings. In the end he’s the one who went down the easy route. The reckless one.

He’s never gonna admit any of that out loud, to anyone, ever. But that’s the way things are and he’s scared shitless that all his stupid teenage angst and post-pubescent anger is coming back to bite him in the ass now.

He wishes his mom was here. She’d be mad as hell, not because of the damage but because he got himself in a dangerous situation. She’s scold him, sure but then she’d also help him get out of this mess. Then again, he isn’T sure his mom would even like the person he’s become these days. He can’t even stand himself most of the time.

“ You — you can’t tell my dad. I promise I am gonna find a way to pay you back for the damages. I promise! “

Billy is talking out of his ass right now. He knows it and he’s fairy sure the guy knows it too. There’s approximately $12 in his wallet right now and another $23 stored in the shoe box beneath his bed. He’s got no job and he as hell won’t be asking Neil for money anytime soon. To be quite honest, Billy was royally fucked. But there was no way Neil could ever know about this.

“ How you gonna do that then ? “ the man asks, he still looks calm and collected and he even has a little smirk playing in the corner of his lips. Billy thinks that’s fucking weird, this guy should be chewing him up right now, not fucking smile at him.

“ I uh — I got savings “

He doesn’t.

“ and stuff I can sell “

Bullshit.

“ … and I’m sure my friends can help me out a little. “

What friends ? Tommy and Carol are the closest to a friend that Billy has right now and they are barely getting by as it is.

“ Just don’t tell my dad. He can’t know “

Billy hopes that the intensity of his voice, the begging tone, the sheer devastation in his eyes, comes across. Maybe appeals to the guy’s conscience. Sure he could be doing an emotional strip right now and put everything out in the open. He could tell the guy that if his dad finds out he caused an accident and has to pay for the damages, he’s in for a good old beating from his dear old man. He could tell it all and maybe awake some sort of pity in the guy. But his mother didn’t raise a snitch, didn’t raise a pussy.

Airing your family's dirty laundry in public just isn’t something the Hargroves do or ever did. No matter how dirty. No matter how bad. Those things stay behind closed doors where no one can see and no one can hear and no one can judge. So all the public sees is a fairly functional patchwork family that is trying their best to get on with their lives after they’ve been dealt some pretty shitty cards.

The man is silent for a moment, he rubs a hand along his beard and looks deep in thought. And then he looks up at Billy and there’s a pity in his eyes that Billy knows fairly well but hasn’t seen in a while. It’s that look that people have when they find out his mother died, the one he’s been greeted with for months after she had passed away. The one that comes with an abundance of “ I’m sorry”s and “ Let me know if there is anything I can do”s. Billy hates that look, usually. No I’m sorry is gonna bring his mom back. Today though, that look might just save his ass.

“ Look, boy. I uh — I don’t know what’s going on at home and if you don’t wanna talk I ain’t gonna ask. Thing is, I need this car to run errands and stuff. I live real close so I can walk to and from work but getting groceries, driving my little one to school ? That stuff ain’t gonna do itself. I got a proposition for you. “

“ Okay “

“ You ever worked before ? “

No. Billy has never worked a day in his life, not for money at least. Back in California, he used to help out his friend Mike and his dad at the garage sometimes, fixing cars and shit. That was more for fun than for anything else though. It was a nice time just hanging out with his friend and dad and drinking a few beers and working on cars. Just guys being guys. Stereotypical and outdated, probably but it was still fun. Something he wishes he could’ve done with his dad. If his dad wasn’t such an insufferable asshole.

“ Not really. I mean I know my way around cars and shit but — no. “

“ Well, here’s the deal. I need someone to run my errands while my car gets fixed. You do that for me, help me out whenever needed. When I don’t need you to drive anywhere you’re gonna help me out here at the diner. The money you earn goes into fixing my car. Once it’s paid off you get to leave and we don’t have to tell no one about it. But I need to be able to rely on you, kid. “

No one has ever really relied on Billy, in his entire life. It’s a heavy burden on his shoulder but what else is there to do ? It’s either this or facing Neil’s wrath. It’s either this or a black eye. A sore jaw. A bleeding nose. Over and over again.

“ Why are you doing this ? Why are you being — nice ? “

Sure, Billy isn’t an idiot. He is well aware that there are people who are just nice for the sake of being nice. People who just have it in them to show kindness to everyone no matter the situation. But that doesn’t mean he’s not still surprised and shocked when coming across someone like that. Maybe it comes with being surrounded by horrible people day in day out, maybe being a horrible person himself.

God, he sounds like an old bitter hag.

“ Man, I’m just trying to collect some good karma points until I’m stood before those pearly gates “ the guy jokes “ nah but honestly, you’re what 18 ? “

“ 17 “

“ 17! I’ve done stupid shit at 17. It’s just a car after all, no one got hurt. Lords knows I’ve been given seconds chances and thirds. Who says you don’t ? Just — just don’t make me regret it “

He probably will. If there’s one thing Billy is good at, it’s fucking up. That doesn’t mean he’s not gonna try his damn best to get this over and done as fast as possible, without completely messing up.

“ Thank you, Sir. I appreciate it. I’m Billy by the way “

“ Pete. Pete Finch “ He reaches out his hand for Billy to shake before getting up and walking towards the counter “ now eat up and go home. I expect you here showered and ready in a few hours. Your first shift starts at 5. I hope you suit red and white because there’ a uniform. “

Well things just can’t get any worse from here.

Things did get worse.

Billy is staring at himself in the little mirror that’s hung above the sink in the diner’s break room. He’s in a white shirt and jeans but they gave him not only a name tag but also a red bow tie and a ridiculous little hat thing that has the diner’s logo printed on it.

The Early Bird is a cute diner, a charming place really, but the uniform makes Billy look absolutely goofy. The shirt is too tight and paired with the bowtie it’s comically ridiculous at best and borderline stripper-esque at worst.

He just hopes Neil never stumbles into this place. Getting comments from schoolmates who might end up here for a burger and shakes, that he can deal with, but his dad ? Never !

It’s a fairly quiet day today. There’s a couple in one of the booths celebrating their 5 year anniversary and two families enjoying some burgers and fries. Billy has successfully charmed the mothers into buying the more pricey deserts. Moms, he thinks, are so easy to wrap around his finger. Maybe he gets to keep the tip.

Fumbling the pack of smokes from his jacket, Billy walks towards the back door of the diner. Pete has allowed him a few smoke breaks throughout the day, as long as he’s not needed urgently. Billy thanks the heavens for that.

The cold air hits his skin, as Billy steps outside into the crisp November evening. He misses the warmth of californian falls. He’s not made for a weather like this, cold and dry and uncomfortable.

Just as he is about to light a smoke, Billy notices a movement to his right. There’s a shiny dark red chevy chevelle parked behind the diner and on the hood of the car there’s a girl.

Her bright blonde hair is permed to the max and cascades down one side of her face. Her lips are painted a deep red that matches her car perfectly and Billy can just make out the shine of a metal ring through the left side of her nose. She’s wearing the same crisp white shirt he was given as part of the uniform only her’s isn’t too tight. Hers is tied into a knot at the front. Billy wonders if living here for a longer amount of time makes a person immune to the cold weather because there’s no way she isn’t freezing with her top exposing part of her midriff. Sure it’s not a lot and she’s wearing a jacket over it but still.

She’s clutching a book in one hand while the other flicks ash of a cigarette.

“ I can feel you staring, it’s rude “

She lifts her eyes up to catch his gaze. There’s a smirk playing on her lips as she notices she caught him off guard.

“ Well you got a nice car there “ Billy replies and walks down the small steps of the diner and towards the girl. The Chevelle is almost sparkling in what little sunlight breaks through the clouds. He loves his Camaro but this car is an absolute dream.

“ Thanks. Got if for my 16th birthday. Gotta share it with my dad now though, cause someone crashed his car “

Fuck. Of all the bad first impressions Billy has ever made, this is probably the worst of them all. He knows shit all about girls, other than maybe how to woo them into his bed, but he’s quite sure no one’s overly fond of people who demolish other people’s cars.

“ Yeah, I know that was you. You drive a Camaro, I noticed your car at school. People around here don’t usually drive cars like that so I put two and two together when dad told me what happened “.

“ Sorry about that “ he isn’t sure why he feels the need to apologize to her too but maybe Pete was right, maybe collecting some good karma points isn’t the worst idea.

“ I’m sure you are after he put you in that ridiculous uniform. I’m Cleo by the way. “

“ Cleo like Cleopatra ? “

“ Cleo like the pet goldfish in the Pinocchio movie “

Before he has a chance to process that fun little part of trivia, Cleo jumps off of the car and stomped out her cigarette. She swiftly unties the shirt and fumbles the nametag from the pocket of her jeans before pinning it to her uniform.

“ I’d love to stay and chat but I gotta start my shift. Oh by the way, if I catch you slacking in the job I’m gonna get real mad. I’m okay with my dad giving you a chance but I’m not gonna pick up your work if you’re being slow or unreliable. “

“ Uh yeah — sure. Noted “

He acts like a stumbling idiot. This whole situation has really thrown him for a loop. Get yourself together, man.

“ It’s all in the hair babe. People will hear about my good looks and my gorgeous hair and the burgers will sell themselves, you just sit back and watch “.

There we go. That’s the Billy everyone expects. Everyone knows. “ I’m B — “

“ Billy, I know. Everyone knows the new kid. Especially when he’s as cocky as you are “ Cleo laughs and opens the back door. Just before she enters the diner she turns back around, long curls twirling around her face.

“ Just so you know, the hat and the bowtie aren’t part of the uniform. He’s just messing with you, pretty boy “

Billy finally lights his cigarette as the door of the diner closes behind Cleo. His mom would slap him upside the head if she knew he had taken up smoking. She always hated when his dad did it and little Billy had to swear to her that he would never pick up on his father’s vices. But she had also promised him to be there forever, to never leave him and to always protect him and though the rational part of him knows that she isn’t to blame for her own death, a tiny part of Billy still holds some resentment. And that part enjoys his cigarettes very much.

His eyes fall back onto the shiny car as he lets his mind wander. His friend Chase has a Chevelle, they drove it all the way along the PCH one time during spring break. It was a roadtrip filled with shitty 7/11 food and nights of hardly any sleep but god, did they have fun.

He misses home. California and the sun and the beach and his friends. Mostly his friends. Actual friends. People who cared about him because they liked him as a person, not because of his status at school or because the ladies like him. Just because of who he is.

He misses it so much.

Then again, none of them have bothered to check up on him so maybe, maybe they don’t care all that much after all.

Maybe no one ever does.

#billy hargrove imagine #billy hargrove fanfic #billy hargrove fanfiction #stranger things fanfiction #stranger things imagines #stranger things imagine #stranger things fanfic #dacre montgomery imagine #dacre montgomery fanfic #dacre montgomery fanfiction #tsmstorymasterlist

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sole-cuore-amore-e-droga · 6 years ago

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Tel Aviv 2019: Straight outta Spain to Eurovision with whole lotta fun

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Dare I say Operación Triunfo is a little bit of... a Choice?

I mean, you got yourself a format that a bunch of young-aged/teen/late-teen aged droolies follow for the drama more than the music, at least that’s what I suppose it is because it’s one of those singing reality shows where you’re oh so very welcome to follow the lives of all the 20-somethings that were unfortunate to sign the contract of the show, not being able to read all the fine-prints in the contract and later regretting not doing so because things like Eurovision. In Israel. But more on that later.

But this is Espain, and this is the sad state of television that is today - if they like your shitty talent show with 24/7 followship of the contestants, and if they watch that, and if they eat that with a spoonful, chances are you’re going to prolong its post-mortem revival state in order to maaaaaybe attract a new audience and acquire a new shippable couple people will vote “a Eurovisión”. Even if your last couple sucked. And even managed to break up unceremoniously sometime before the 2019 show’s Eurovision final <3 god bless them for finally breaking the chain and breaking the hearts of thousands who were ‘dying’ for the ship. It was never EVER meant to last.

So is it a no surprise that Operación went thriving for another year? Certaintly at least it’s no joy to bear with another amount of subpar desperates from every other corner of Spain, but only because Spain deserves a better NF format. I mean, with these other NF formats we can at least have a variety of artists with their own (or composed by others) songs, and it doesn’t matter an inch whether the public’s big fave gets rigged out to me - as long as it’s just a NF I can get easily over with, it’s all fine to me! And of course OT is also fine for me, it’s just that people are begging for it to get axed for some reason. Maybe because of all the ships?

I don’t want to put too much more thought of what happened in the reality show other than the Eurovision Gala, BUT I seemed to notice something rather crazy. You see, at first we had Natalia (or was it Alba Reche or Sabela even?) heavily speculated as the winner pre-show, but in the end the OT glory was all handed to some Dutch-born boy of Nigerian origin named... Famous. Not shitting you, it is his name. But what’s the saddest part about this? Famous CLEARLY wanted it all to himself just because of Eurovision being included in the contract. Yet his only victory in life is being the best among the rest of these stars that were watched over 24/7. Unfortunately, Mr. Oberogo couldn’t make this out to be in his favour in the Eurovision-special gala, to which the “triunfitos” can attend if they have songs chosen for them in the lineup, and yes he was admitted, but then he was given a SUCH DISAPPOINTING SONG EHMERGERD!!!!!!!! :’(

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(lol calm yer ladyhormones, “No puedo mas” wasn’t THAT bad, it’s just that given Famous did songs like “Nobody but You” (yes THAT one) on the show, you’d expect something contemporary soulful, not just blatant radio filler that could have easily been an EYD reject?)

So how did it all happen that the girls were rooted for to win OT, but in the end the one that wanted Eurovision the most won? And how come the one that wanted the Eurovision the most was given a song that paled in comparison to that one song that was performed by someone who was blatantly against going to ESC because “nuuuuu Israel stop hurting Palestine” and that one being favoured to win? AND HOW COME ONE OF THE BIGGEST SHOW’S VILLAINS GOT HANDED ABSOLUTE SLAYAGE OF THE SONGS?? Honestly it’s for the best if Spain is just there to subdue everyone’s expectations, just like they did when choosing Manel (be it because of a corrupt juror or whatever). They did it every single turn of the time this year during OT’s run.

And of course I’ll forever love them for that, as the end result was AN ABSOLUTE FUCKING FIESTA BANGER. Courtesy of Miki (Núñez).

Ngl, the first thing I went in for about “La venda” before listening to it was through this first impression tweet on Miki’s ‘eliminated’ song from the selection, “El equilibrio”:

BITCH HOW WAS SHE NOT READY TO SEE THAT COMING AT HER.

Granted, the sudden start of happy sounds rushing right at me was a little startling, but I was able to cope with it and jam to the song in the end.

I completely adore this one, it’s so powerfully joyful with all its instruments and the Spanish language, the interesting turn of events in lyrics, the incredibly easy probability to sing along to this (LO QUE EEEEERE! LO QUE ERE ERE E!), the authenticity, the cultural roots (tbqh Eurovision countries should be welcome to embrace their culture rather than stray further away from it! also this is why more native languages other than English are encouraged)... mmm-mmm.

And like I said, for some reason Miki was seen as a grand villain to the show, and even if I didn’t follow OT all that much, I was constantly questioning why, and after seeing him eliminated I only wanted to know if people in Espain were rejoicing about it. The against-agenda turned up onto him again when he happened to have the most songs in the internet selection bunch handed to him (THREE!!! Two solo tracks and a duet.), but nothing there was to worry, as instead other favourites were discovered, therefore Miki ended up in the dust for a while. Up until something happened that got him a big surge of votes at the end. Go figure.

Despite all this, I think it’s the right direction for Spain songwise! Me gusta mucho, and not only personally, but also objectively, honestly. Miki’s got a right enough good song for the nation and provided the revamp doesn’t make it crash and burn (yes, the good friend of a Eurovision song - the revamp! It’s happening), it’s safe to say that Spain can stand a chance. Not win, for now, but stand a chance. Yes.

Before I repeat myself some more I’d probably have to add this part for no reason as it came from my Twitter review for “La venda” this time, as I heard songs 1 day before the NF as when I expected the NF to go on Saturday but it was on a Sunday:

BITCH HOW WAS I WRONG. Well mostly thanks to the fact the fanwank-ess of OT ESC Gala actively asked to direct her votes to Miki’s song (Monika Marija teas amirite), but still, WRONG!

Now that I finally composed my thoughts I guess, let’s all go and read the below verdict I’m putting this up for:

Approval factor: I’m giving this a big fat SÍ!

Follow-up factor: Of course I like it way better than “Tu canciYAWN”, there’s no doubt in it :) and after Almaia’s romance advertisement they’re doing a great job by coming back to their great Spanish roots of music, honestly. And it’s better that way than forcing a ship onto a Eurovision 2018 ship, so yeah

Big 5 factor: As of this time Spain lowkey fizzled out with everyone now that a big wave of other faves arised, BUT I don’t think that Spain’s drowning in misery this year, not at all! With right kind of energy of the staging and uplift Spain can totally woo them televoters this time around, making them “lo que ere” their worries away to the sunset. And this is a positive thing - as if juries decide to drown this sometimes and televoters don’t, it will still soar somewhere up high enough in top 15.

NATIONAL FINAL BONUS

Now, I don’t quite think this year’s OT was quite as memetic as I expected, but we still have had some pre-NF gems, just like this:

• “THEN POLKA”. That one moment was also brought up to her on her OT Eurovision Gala postcard.

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• and this one contestant’s gloriously accidental butt-shot

Though we did have a handful of these kind of moments on the Gala itself (and surrounding it), such as:

• NF’s biggest favourite to win songwise not even trying. Yes, there are those NF winners which underperform but only because they don’t seem to know better, but did you know that there are THOSE like María Villar who decide against it? Basically, she was one of those opposing against the situation in Israel with Palestine, so out of protest towards all this, she voluntarily went against doing Eurovision in a nation like this by encouraging her fans to vote for Miki the night before and sacrificing any slightest grains of trying with her performance - by barely dancing on stage and not outselling anything vocally. And it worked to some extent, as she came SECOND only, and shortly after Miki won, she spoke out loud that she was satisfied to not have become the victor (I mean she just thanked everyone for not voting her to ESC lol). But you know what, for situations like these I really do love ESC NFs - where everything predictable is upturned by some sort of events like these. I mean, I like "Muérdeme", it’s catchy, Latino-appealing enough (for those whores thirsty for Luis Fonsi and similar fucks who sing in Spanish on English songs these days), has a cool breakdown and what not, but it would just probably bring back another disappointing result from Eurovision much to fans’ dismay, especially if the Tel Aviv (oh wait sorry... for Maria’s case this would have probably been Limassol or Vienna) edition was to bring many bops for this time around that are BIGGER and BETTER than this one. It’s just happening that it’s unfortunate to be Spain...

• Yet again, putting Famous up on here, but of course he was disappointed to not get that win. I know I’m not the right person to judge considering I’m WHOLE THREE DAYS YOUNGER than him, but I’d still tell him he only had RTVE to blame for giving him THAT in the end and putting him through online voting rounds... and speaking of:

• Like I mentioned before several times, there was an online voting round for to pick-pocket the songs that sounded the best out of the demo-ic snippets of a minute or less. Its top 3 was of course dominated by ladies and their own bangers/just likeable enough songs, with poor Famous being 4th in it (and the top 3 is a must on there to be automatically admitted to the show without any higher-ups shuffling the other competitors ‘round later on and toying with their fates). I liked the complete final cut of the Gala for the most part, but boy did they miss out some, like this male laidback-acoustic pop bop “Sale”, courtesy of Damion Frost. I can at least forgive the loss of “El equilibrio”, but this? Nah siree. And yeah I know this whole shtick is a tire, but I like some of it, and I saw a worse track from the same shtick collection qualifying through higher-ups and that’s NOT boding well with me.

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(yes of course Manel happened but still)

• Miki joining the glorious wall of epic NF victory reactions with his O face of total cartooney awkwardness <3

• and Eleni Foureira being able to rock a trashbag as a dress during her guest performance of both “Fuego” and her ‘new’ ‘smash’ hit in partially more Spanish than “Fuego” was - “Tómame”. Granted the juxtapose transition was a little too jarring, but hey - 2 songs for a price of 1. Go get them Spanish audience people acknowledging your pop art Elli <3 (also her chitchat with the ESC Gala host about what do you need to do good in Eurovision <3)

At this point I’m too not fucked to remember more of them but I’m really sure I missed a lot of the OT lulziness that happened before the Gala, during and after it (such as Natalia (who also sang one song in the NF with Miki himself) not wanting ESC but still trying better than Maria). I don’t want to be reminded of them, as my review’s as long as it is. But I’m sure someone else remembers, so I’ll let them judge.

#eurovision 2019 #tel aviv 2019 reviews #spain 2019 #miki núñez #la venda #spain

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wandaluvstacos · 3 years ago

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Chapter 10 of Good Investment is now up on my Patreon!

Good Investment is available at the $5/month tier. People who pledge $5 a month have access to not only Good Investment but The Sponsors series (ongoing), Pretty Things (complete), May the Blood Run Pure (complete), and Kept Man (complete), along with the $1/month tier books, the Reflections trilogy (ongoing) and The Halfwife (ongoing).

Book Summary

Adri Schvaneveldt has always felt split between two worlds. In one world, they are the adopted child of a large and conservative Mormon family. In another, she is the CEO of a burgeoning fashion empire that pushes boundaries. But in order to be the latter, Adri first has to find the funding. After gaining a hefty following as a social media influencer/model, Adri has the potential customers– if they can properly scale up their small operation. And that means a bit of groveling at the feet of investors, most of who have never even heard the term “nonbinary”.

But Adri lucks out with Gideon Snow, whose open mind bring much needed funds to make Adri’s dream of diverse, accessible fashion a reality. Of course, lifting a newborn company to its feet is no small task, and late nights drive Adri to occasional stays at Gideon’s nearby house, where their relationship begins stretching beyond business. Adri knows they can’t put an entire business venture at risk for the turbulent whims of their heart. But reason doesn’t always win out.

For chapter archive, artwork, and further information, check out my website!

Excerpt:

“Sounds like an identity crisis,” Adri murmured, squeezing Jay’s hand.

“Maybe. Or I’m just lonely.” Jay looked down at their intertwined fingers. “I missed you a lot when I left. I still do. We had a great thing, right? I dated some crazy girls, but you were rock solid.”

“I think you’re looking back with rose-tinted glasses. We fought a lot toward the end.”

“Hmm. I mostly remember the good stuff.”

“There was good stuff. But there was pain, too.” As Jay’s thumb glided over one of Adri’s knuckles, Adri continued, “Maybe we should find you a girlfriend. Will that help?”

“I already know all the lesbians in this city.”

“You’ve been gone for years. There are probably other lesbians who moved in.”

“I hate dating.”

“You’re good at it. Come on. You’re the smoothest butch I know, and you enjoy being charming. What’s stopping you?”

“Charming, huh?” Jay said with half-cocked smile.

“Yes, very. If nothing else, it’ll give you something to do and an outlet for your talents.”

“Ugh, but it’ll mean work. Work is what you’re good at. All I wanna do is lie on a hammock and get a foot rub.”

“And you can get those things if you work a little first.”

Jay gave Adri a petulant look, and Adri laughed. They had every confidence in Jay to figure it out, because Jay was smart and worldly and dressed smart. She was in a much better place than Adri to find love, and it was all Adri wanted for her. She deserved a girlfriend to cook and care for.

“A’ight, let’s make a deal. I’ll go on some dates… if you go on some dates.”

Now it was Adri’s turn to look petulant. “We’re talking about you, not me.”

“Why do I gotta date but you don’t?”

“Because I’m trying to run a company. I just spent most of my day today at a conference.”

“There’s tomorrow.”

“I’m not using my one free day to go on a date.”

“Now who is being stubborn, hmm?” Jay sighed and stood, leaning over to kiss the top of Adri’s head. “Think about it, okay? You been under a lotta stress, and sometimes it’s nice to get your bootyhole ate from time to time.”

Adri snorted, then burst out laughing. “Oh, is that all a relationship is?”

“Bootyhole eating and macaroni and cheese on demand.” Jay winked as she gathered the plates and opened the patio door. “If you don’t at least get that, then it ain’t worth dating.”

#Good Investment #my writing #update #excerpt #character #original fiction

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nylenol · 7 years ago

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ALL OF THEM. 1-50. GO.

1: Do you ever wish you were someone else?

yes and no! i value the idea of fate a Lot a lot and idk i believe things happen to certain ppl for a certain reason whether in this life or others so. yeah. i also think that everything i’ve been thru makes me a certain way, and throwing that away to go like,,, possess another body or some shit makes everything not worth. i wish i had better financial status and had more resources at my disposal tho! so if i could change my social/financial standing thatd be hot as fuck

2: What is your full name?sandra whot (thats what i write on my physics tests)

3: How old are you and how old do you get mistaken for?im 17 but god knows i still look 12

4: Have you ever dyed your hair?no but ppl ask me if i’ve dyed it bc the natural colors kinda wack! also i spray painted it blue once does that count

5: What’s your eye color?healthy soil mmm wormy

6: Your opinion about your body and how comfortable you are with iti like my body! i used to not bc shes a little chonky but its okay now^^

7: Do you have any tattoos or piercings?i really wanna get an industrial/helix piercing in my ear but im scared of piercings djhgggg i used to have those little asian baby hoops that all asian babies have but it got caught in my necklace and started bleeding like fuck when i was little so i was kinda traumatized, dont wear earrings anymore and the hole closed up on one side ; as for tattoos i want one eventually! maybe something small and meaningful on my ankle/wrist or smth

8: What would you say is your best quality?i’m really tolerant of a lotta bs tbh; a lot of times when my friends cant handle a person/situation i still find myself p okay with it and they tell me that so ya!

9: What are you really bad at?oh my god so many : cant dance; cant sing; drawing mediocre; meeting deadlines? whos she! etc etc my work ethic just sux

10: What talent do you wish you had?i wish i could sing well/play an instrument!! love live renewed my love for music a lot and not being able to express that love for music IN music makes me rlly emo

11: Are you nice to everyone?yeah i’d like to think so,, sometimes i shittalk if they like do something Genuinely Morally Wrong like hello but for the most part i think everyones deserving of kindness even if i dont know them that well!

12: What do you think about the most?i spend a lot of time thinking abt the past and what i could have changed and the future and what i could have been and its ugly dont like it but it nags at me!! thanks obama

13: Things you like/dislike about yourselfi like the fact that i have a lot of passion for certain things and dedicate myself to them!! but i dont like the fact that i get demotivated rlly easy and let things pile up after signing up for too many things that i care about; ; ; then i dont drop these things and end up in a shithole of responsibility like hello o o o o

14: What is your least favorite word?i dunno! but any word i cant pronounce correctly is my mortal enemy (colosseum)

15: What is your favorite word?idk but i say hello so much ,, about time i start punctuating my sentences with goodbye.

16: Are you more like your mom or your dad?i look exactly like my dad but i like my mom more! i wanna be like her, that woman works so hard to keep me and my sister alive hello

17: Would you ever smile at a stranger?yeah! but honest to god if the strangers a crusty man then no i aint risking shit

18: A reason you’ve lied to someoneuhh the other day i went out for dim sum w benji and told my mom that only BENJI was buying dim sum but actually he paid for both of us bc im a broke bih (my mom hates owing ppl money) and yeah i feel terrible i dont lie often

19: Are you lying about anything right now?i dont think so ? only person im lying to is myself kek - John 1:14

20: Have you kissed someone older than you?never kissed anyone ! but wheres my milf @ god

21: Do you believe in love at first sight?yes in a way ??? but i think thats a superficial, physical kind of love and the love that matters can only form after like. years of both platonic and romantic bonding

22: Do you believe in soulmates?yes! the definition of a soulmate to me is someone who would fit best for you both romantically and platonically - but while there will always be someone who fits the best, there will always be someone who fits about the same, and someone who fits about the same right under that, etc etc. while we dont end up w/ the OG Soulmate tm in most situations, we do find a variation of them somewhere in the world.

23: Are looks important?a little bit?? but it doesnt matter in the long run, if you love someone then you’ll also grow to love the way they look its a package deal brent

24: Opinion on relationship age differencesi like ppl around my age or maybe a year younger/older but if ur 25 n dating a 35 yo then thats ur business! idc as long as neither party is in their teens and its healthy

25: Would you date someone off the Internet?unless i met them irl? no

26: Have you ever cried over a boy/girl?lol yeah in part, i normally dont cry until i have 6000 different reasons to cry and sufficient hydration (like 3 times a year hello)

27: Have you ever wanted someone you couldn’t have?lol

28: Anyone you’re giving up on right now?lol

29: Have you ever liked someone who your friends hated?yeah! my friends disliked one of my best friends for like a Long time, me n her aren’t close friends anymore bc shes kinda snakey but w/e

30: Have you ever liked your best friend?lol

31: How does someone win your heart?be a good friend! same humor helps a lot, if someone’s aura is comfy for me to be in then hhhello ;; also genuine concern and compassion is my biggest turn on yeet

32: What turns you on?having enough food on me to eat every single period of the day, fruit, vidya games, sleeping,,, when teachers extend deadlines mr. geil i love you ? i lo

33: What turns you off?ketchup poured over fries like hello what is wrong with people.

34: Do you get jealous easily?yes cerritos auto square

35: What is your definition of cheating?cheating (noun) - the conscious pursuit of non-platonic relations with a person other than your significant other

36: Do you forgive betrayal?not really but depends on the situation

37: Have you ever been cheated on?nop i gave someone my hw to copy a few times tho

38: Have you ever cheated on someone?nop but i copy other ppls hw on a daily basis :)

39: How often do you listen to music?24/7 all the time always every waking hour right now immediately at the moment, this bitch DEAD without her earbuds

40: First concert you attendedactual actual concert in a venue was the AX one where Aqours performed!!

41: Last movie you watchedCarol it made me sososoos emo i was watching it on a bus next to a bunch of hetties i was Crying. crying

42: Favorite type of movieromance! and for some reason disaster movies,,, also psychological movies r Really up there

43: Is there something that happened in your past that you hate talking about?hoohooheehee

44: Are you good at hiding your feelings?yeah when i need to, its obvious to other ppl tho i think

45: Do you fall in love easily?not really

46: Do you think people say I love you too much?yes and no, it depends on context and frequency

47: What’s your favorite holiday?tet bih

48: Are you a forgiving person? Do you like being that way?im pretty forgiving i think, i wish i wasnt

49: Where’s the most magical place on earth?right here in my bed! wish i could sleep forever

50: What’s your “type”?idk if i have a type but ppl are hot and this lesbian is too weak to go on! i like ppl who are kinda similar to me tho: little crazy little wack but ultimately well meaning

#FRAPPE I HATE U THIS TOOK HALF AN HOUR !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!#thank u for the ask tho sjkhhdh #asks #flying-frappucino

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freevoidman · 7 years ago

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All of the questions form the ask except for 16 and 17 because I read the tags 😏😊

yoU FUCK--

Also I guess it’s 15 and 16 bc those are the ones that ask for pics? So ur getting everything but those two instead lmao I can’t read.

1. Song of the year?

Thunderstruck by 2CELLOS (skip ahead to 0:38 for the start of the music, 1:10 for the actual cover). It’s a great cover for a famous song and i’m a sucker for cello-only covers. Plus, it’s a great song to listen to when you want to get some of ur aggression out.

2. Album of the year?

The Persona 5 Original Soundtrack! There’s so much amazing songs from the game, all of them jazzy and catchy and oh my god I love the entire thing. The stuff featuring Lyn’s vocals is especially great!

3. Favorite musical artist / group you started listening to this year?

Hm... there’s not a lot that come to mind, but I guess BTS? I’m not super into their music, and I don’t check out their livestreams and shit where they talk with fans, but their music is pretty sweet!

4. Movie of the year?

UUUUUUUUUUUUUGGH it has to be a tie between IT and Wonder Woman. IT was great on a sheer talent level and, after watching the 90s film, it was a massive improvement and gave the book the justice it deserved. However, Wonder Woman I appreciate because of the hopeful change it might bring to the movie industry and superhero movies, and perhaps lead to less over-sexualization of women in movies.

5. TV show of the year?

Nothing really comes to mind (especially because I don’t really watch TV a lot) but it’d have to be Brooklyn 99. Comedic gold at its finest, and the level of representation is NUTS! I love it!

6. Episode of tv or webisode that defined the year for you?

...y’all’re gonna laugh but it’s fucking Shibboleth from West Wing. We watched the episode in one of my classes and it brought up so much political topical stuff that’s happening in my country, as well as the sheer ridiculousness of what the fuck is happening in the US (as well as unintentional attachments that can form bc I made a stupid level of those with just fictional characters lmao)

7. Favorite actor of the year?

Finn Wolfhard. Not only for his level of talent in Stranger Things and IT, but also just his level of comedic genius outside of films and shows. He’s great, and I can’t wait to see where his talents will lead him next.

8. Game of the year?

WHY MUST YOU TORTURE ME LIKE THIS.

I’d have to give it to Persona 5, though Breath of the Wild and Final Fantasy XV are close. The reason why P5 wins is because I’ve been waiting for this games since 2013 and it delivered on everything I wanted. Meanwhile, BOTW and FFXV were only purchased after they came out and I saw all the reviews, or (in the case of FFXV) was and impulse buy that I didn’t have much faith in. They’re both great games, don’t get me wrong, but my god, Persona 5 delivered of fucking everything I wanted and a bit more.

9. Best month for you this year?

December (and no, I’m not just saying that because that’s the month we’re in). I’ve been accepted into the colleges I really wanted to be accepted into, and Christmas wasn’t that bad. Though I am sick with something right now, it’s definitely not a bad month, and easily the best one I’ve had with all the stress/disappointments of the months prior.

10. Something that made you cry this year?

...getting a bit personal, it was seeing my cousin during Easter. She’s been struggling with drugs and she had a relapse and was completely out of it. She’s got a kid. I was mad as hell and ready to punch her, but I just kind of broke down outside the house once no one could see me.

11. Something you want to do again next year?

...uuuuuhhh I didn’t really do it this year bc of the amount of shit I had to do, but I really, really want to do NaNoWriMo again. It was fun, and I nearly succeeded last year. I was about two thousand words short because I got sick and I want to get the 50k word count for something!

12. Talk about a new friend you made this year

YES HELLO I’M ABOUT TO PRAISE THE HELL OUT OF @yoitssabrinee SO PREPARE YOURSELVES.

Honestly such a sweetheart???? She’s a-fucking-mazing and so strong despite all the bullshit she’s gone through and she’s so freaking nice and caring! Like, I’ve been complaining to her about how I’ve been sick and she’s always like “did you take your meds? Did you drink water? Did you eat?” And it’s so nice and even if our convos are mostly screaming at each other about FFXV fanfics we’re writing it’s SUCH A JOY to see her messages whenever I wake up/am about to go to sleep.

13. How was your birthday this year?

Good! The only negative part was that it was during a school day (typically it falls on Thanksgiving break, but not this year) and I got a lotta good gifts! I certainly can’t complain about it, that’s for sure.

14. Favorite book you read this year?

Catcher in the Rye. It’s very rare that I find a school book that I enjoy, and this hits all my favorite things. It’s a super introspective look on Holden’s life (which is pretty messed up tbh) and his struggles to reconcile with his flaws and the need to be somewhat ‘normal’.

15. What’s a bad habit you picked up this year?

Sort of a bad habit that I’ve continued and haven’t stopped--picking at my skin. Especially scabs and any chapped skin on my lips. I have so many cuts and scars from doing this, and I really need to stop...

18. A memorable meal this year?

I went with my family to some fancy-ass Japanese restaurant with my friend irl before we went to see Hamilton. The food there was tasty as hell, and the experience itself made it incredibly memorable.

19. What’re you excited about for next year?

There’s a couple! Getting my driving license, graduating high school, and going to college would definitely be at the top of that list! For more material things, I’m looking forward to Hacker’s Memory, the new Persona rhythm games (I’m being very hopeful that they’ll be released in English around the same time of their Japanese versions) and Final Fantasy Dissidia!

20. What’s something you learned this year?

How to drive!

21. What’s something new about your place of residence (room, home, or general location) now vs the start of the year?

My old swingset broke. I still use it as a way to destress (the repetitive motion of swinging, combined with listening to music really clams me down) and there’s no way we can really repair it until it gets warmer... which could be as early as February, or as late as April, considering the weather patterns. Basically, it has to be above freezing to do anything.

22. Favorite place you visited this year?

Boston for college tours! It was a great city, though I could’ve dealt with less stress from trying to figure out where the fuck to go...

23. If you could send a message to yourself back on the first day of the year, what would it be?

It’s hard right now. God do I know how hard it is right now. It’s gonna get harder. You’re going to hate everyone for a while, because no one really helped you the way you needed help, but you’ll make it. I promise you’ll make it.

24. Did you keep any New Year’s Resolutions?

Technically yes, because I didn’t make any. Can’t break any resolutions if you never make ‘em.

25. Did you create any characters (in games, art, or writing) this year? Describe one

Uuuuugh I have a lot that I just make in my head, but because I have the artistic skills of a drunk goldfish I can’t typically draw them, and I’m too nervous to write about them (^^;). Other people can keep asking this one, and I’ll describe a different OC that I have, but only in my head, y’know?

I DID get FFXV Comrades and made an OC! His name is Tonitus, Tony for short. He’s 5′3″ and hails from... Altissia, if I remember correctly. He has about mid-length black hair and bright, that almost Mako-colored blue eyes.

In my weird-ass lore about the guy, he’s a messenger who got amnesia from falling to the surface. He’s loyal to Ramuh and can harness lightning magic easily, and struggles with fire and ice magic. He got the Kingsglaive uniform from Ramuh himself, who sent him down to Eos to assist the humans with the encroaching darkness and rampant daemons and infected wildlife. As he regains his memory, he’s torn with assisting them like a human would or like a pseudo-god, and his own mortality and how he’ll deal with everyone passing long before him, long before the light can be restored, long before the King can ascend.

#Ask meme #End of the Year #Anonymous

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nu-blessed · 7 years ago

Note

🤔 Can you share what is your favorite thing about each nu'est boys? (Something like: his voice, eyes, something about them that make you love them even more; in my case: I love JR's eyes when smiles 😍, The way Minhyun looks at JR...)

Aw bless this is a such a cute ask, thank you my love. Well I love a lotta things about them so this might be long lol

Ren- The way he cherishes each love deeply. Despite being the most recognizable member until recently, he never became vain. He always makes awareness posts about human tragedy which has happened (e.g. sewol) and you can tell he cares deeply about it, he is very empathetic. His flirting with fans and cheesy romantic lines always make me happy!

When some interviewers are rude and misgender him by calling him a women/ saying he looks like a girl, he only says “Thank You” with a serious face, despite being the babied maknae he is super brave when it comes to dealing with hate. He fearlessly pushes gender boundaries and I love him for it! But deep down hes still insecure so we need to look after him. My favourite feature of his are his heart shaped lips.

Aron- I bias ot5 put ive been exposed for fangirling Aron the most by fellow loves many times lol. I love that he gave up his place of the prestigious NYU just to follow his dream. He went alone to Korea at 17 without knowing the language, so he was super brave. I love how he’s the Hyung but doesn't act like it lol he doesn’t see the age difference between him and the other 4. I love his cringey Aegyo. I love how his main reason for doing this is his fans, and how he remembers every love who listened to his radio show.

His voice is very distinct and stable live I love how it sounds I wish he got more lines. Lastly, these 5 months have been hard yet Aron did well, he knew fans wanted him to step up more. And his Instagram post after his hiatus was very emotional to me, he promised he would work harder for us, and I 100% believe him. Despite being the least known member right now, he still will work hard in the future. My favourite feature of his is his cute little nose and thick eyebrows.

Baekho- THIS GUY LOVES FOOD AND AINT AFRAID TO SHOW IT. His voice?? er?? so strong?? so powerful?? is it even real??. I love how blunt he is, he says want he thinks, and he isnt afraid to make stupid puns even when the members roll their eyes lol. Baekho is the backbone of NU’EST truely. He has AMAZING compositional skills (composed Canvas and Q IS with Bumzu and members) and his ears are sharp AF (when he called ‘avengers’out for doubling). When his dad got ill with Leukemia he stayed strong. When he had vocal surgery he also stayed strong. He is a very strong person who is also a puppy on the inside with the most ADDICTIVELY cute laugh. Even through this terrible period when he’s being attacked by so many people, I will protect him. He is strong and will make it through it.

My favourite feature of his are his sexy thighs!

Minhyun- I MISS YOU BBY PLS COME BACK HOME- what . . . er I mean Minhyun is a literal prince. A TRUE VISUAL. He is graceful in everything he does and yet has the soul of an old ajumma raising 4 kids alone lol. I love how he looks after the members like their mother (bc they became trainees so young and moved away from home) and is constantly making sure the members are OK. I like how he is clean and organised. I like his eye for knowing how to create a balanced group, his eye for talent, as shown on pd101. I love how crazily optimistic he is. Even when NU’EST were in hell he was always looking on the bright side and NEVER giving up on NU’ESTs dream. His work ethic is CRAZY he will work did his body gives out and he collapses tbh. He will work until everything is PERFECT. I love how despite being in Wanna One Minhyun is loyal to NU’EST.

My favourite feature are his small hands, fox eyes and bright red ears.

JR- Oh God. Where do I even start? This boy is truly the nation's Leader. I love how despite having to shoulder the hardships of the other members probably took all the blame from their failure from Pledis, he still never ONCE complained. I love how he starting searching for his dream (and his father’s dream) at 13 (pledis first ever male trainee) and even now at 22, he has not given up on it! As shown on pd101 he puts other before himself, teaches others even if that means sacrificing himself. He has seen so much misery and pain as leader of NU’EST, yet he stuck with it for 5 years, and now things are looking brighter. I love how he gives 500% always (first one to wake up in pd101)

I love how innocent he is. I love his unique high voice lol. I love his emotional, intense and powerful lyrics and rapping ability. I love his amazing dance skills which he got into Pledis for in the first place (b-boying).

I love how he will always protect the NU’EST members with his entire being. I love how much he cherishes and deeply loves each member and would do anything for them. I love how he wears his heart on his sleeve and how emotional he is. I love the fact that he is such a ridiculously hard-working, beautiful, sincere and talented person he is my main inspiration in life.

My favourite features are his aegyo, eyes that shine like diamonds and his skin.

IM SORRY ITS SO LONG I JUST GOT EMOTIONAL I JUST LOVE THEM SO MUCH BUT FOR DIFFERENT REASONS OK. I AM OT5 TRASH.

Got these boys deserve the world I promise loves will make it up to them!! First win is on its way and more success will follow.

God knows I love NU’EST will all my heart, it's been years and it hasn't changed, I will stick with them forever

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tb5-heavenward · 8 years ago

Text

artwork by the fantastically talented @birdologist and animation by the lodestar of my heart, the inimitable @awkwardarbor

There’ve been some endorsements for Virgil to punch his father in the face. Lotta people want that to happen.

also as of this chapter, part 8 is 30k long! whoo hoo!

a_moment_of_dawn

You can find Heavenward on Tumblr // Ao3 // ff.net

a_moment_of_dawn - part 16

His brother's dead, and their father killed him.

That isn't true.

But Virgil keeps hearing it in his head, singsong, like a nursery rhyme. John's dying, John's dead. Dad came back and killed him. He's been hearing it for nearly a week now, ever since Scott had first called, to relay what he'd had from Alan. Dad's alive, John's dying.

He'd been fully expecting John to die. Flying alone over the Pacific, he'd told himself that someone had to brace for that impact, because Scott was too caught up in the giddy impossibility of their father being alive, Alan couldn't be denied the possibility that he might manage to save his big brother's life, and no one even knew where the hell Gordon and Kayo were. Someone needed to be ready.

So Virgil got ready. John was dying, John would die, and then John would be dead.

That hadn't happened.

Instead, he'd spent four days in a GDF hospital, bereft of his partner and more or less incoherent with grief, and the truth about what he'd done and what had happened to him had started to come together.

John's story has been told around him, because he's been in no state to tell it on his own behalf. The people in his life put it together in bits and pieces, gathered their information from context, from the way he fit into the events that surrounded his disappearance. It was a story told secondhand, or from other perspectives, with parts still missing and questions still unanswered. Scott's had it from their father. Virgil's had it from Alan. Gordon's cobbled together a version of his own from both sides, plus whatever he's had from Penelope.

There's a version of the story that hasn't happened. There's a version of the story without their father in it, where John had retrieved EOS from the GDF's custody by whatever means were necessary, and done whatever it took to keep her safe, even if it took him out of the world entirely. There's a version where he disappeared, and died, and no one ever knew any better. There's a story in which their father returned to find his second son gone, in just the same manner as he'd left himself; and the punishment is almost adequate to the crime.

But in this version of the story, John's home. And their father isn't.

And, though he hasn't said it to Jeff's face, Virgil's deeply glad of the latter, for the sake of the former. As far as Virgil's concerned, his father's not welcome.

But he doesn't want to think about his father right now. His father's not here. And there's plenty to deal with in the wake of the damage he's done.

Virgil gets out of bed at eight every morning, to wake his brother up for a dose of the antibiotics he needs dripped directly into his bloodstream, to clear up the infection in his heart. That's working. He's getting better, and it shows. Virgil's the one making sure John eats, stays hydrated, showers. Occasionally he keeps John company, though if he's honest, lately Virgil has to admit that he prefers to stick to the basics. Care and maintenance, nudging and prodding his brother through all the things he's too numb and depersonalized to deal with himself. Practical goals. Observable results.

But nothing Virgil does actually touches the pain his brother's in, because his brother's grieving. And grief in John is something deeper and darker and scarier than Virgil's ever understood. It's the sort of thing that makes him stop talking, stop eating, stop wanting to be alive. What's happening now is a window into their childhood, back when losing their mother had nearly killed John, too.

Suffice it to say, it's been a lot to handle.

It's the end of a long day at the end of a long week, and Virgil's given himself permission to take a break. Not the first break, because there are plenty of people to spell him off—Grandma and Alan and Gordon and even Brains, in his way, have all been doing just the same as Virgil has, looking after John—but the first break where he's allowing himself some emotional distance, and deliberately not thinking about his brother. He's retreated to the safest, quietest place he knows. There's always some part of Thunderbird 2 that could do with some attention, even if it ends up just being busywork.

And all he wants is to work on his 'bird for a while. Something private, quiet, meditative. Clear his head after the week his family's had, get back some little piece of normalcy, when every part of his day-to-day has been pulled inside out, turned into something else. He wants something to think of that isn't his brother or his father; a problem that's his and his alone, a problem he can actually fix.

He gets about twenty minutes, alone with his own problems, before he hears the sound of someone moving around the cargo hold. Another five, and he hears his brother climbing up the ladder into the cockpit.

At this rate, he's not even going to get to fix this one stupid, simple problem.

Because Gordon clears his throat and kicks him lightly in the knee, and honestly, he's lucky Virgil doesn't kick him right back.

Flat on his back beneath the console in the cockpit of TB2, Virgil doesn’t look up from what he’s doing. What he’s doing is something he’s been putting off ever since it first became a problem—careful, fiddly rewiring of the underside of his control panel, trying to ferret out a wire that lights up his “check engine light” any time the starboard aileron adjusts beyond thirty-degrees out of neutral. It's the second time he's had a chance to try and fix it, and he doesn't want to be interrupted.

Gordon's apparently dead set on interrupting him anyway, and he clears his throat, pointedly, and nudges Virgil's shin this time, with the toe of a bare foot. This is the very height of stupidity and is therefore what actually gets Virgil to break off in the middle of what he's working on, rather than the fact that his little brother is actively trying to get his attention.

So Virgil carefully reattaches the wires he’d undone, slides out from beneath the console, and sits up. Generally Gordon’s the one who starts these conversations, but Virgil cuts him off before he can say anything, and his tone flat, irritated, as he snarls, "What?" A beat. "You know you shouldn't be down here without shoes on, you're gonna step on something sharp or drop something heavy or some other idiot thing like that. And that'll be the last damn thing I need."

Gordon probably doesn't deserve this kind of hostility, but Virgil doesn't especially care. And anyway his brother doesn't rise to it, remains annoyingly placid and calm as he answers, "Oh, right, the last damn thing you need. Wouldn't be an issue for me at all. Nah, c'mon. I'm being careful, V, chill out." At this, Gordon gestures with his left hand, as though demonstrating his point. "I'm acutely aware that I'm still delicate and fragile."

In spite of his irritation, Virgil feels the faintest twinge of guilt. It's John everyone's been focused on, but Gordon's picked up some damage of his own, though he still has far less to suffer than their older brother does. Gordon's always been astonishingly resistant to trauma, and apparently having one of his fingers lopped off by a maniac in Bangkok hasn't done any appreciable damage to his psyche. His left hand is still bandaged, but less than it had been, a sleeker downgrade from the bulky mess of bandages he'd been wearing when Brains had first patched him up. Tape and gauze and a hastily 3D-printed splint keep his finger still while it heals back into place, skin and nerves and bone knitting back together, the whole thing reattaching itself. Beyond this, there's the fading evidence of the places where he'd been hit in the face, bruised about the throat. Less obviously, invisibly, a few of his ribs are cracked, and he's only a week out from a moderate concussion. John's sick, but Gordon's injured, and it's easy to forget that.

Virgil's still a little short with him, as he prompts again, "Fine. What, Gordon? What do you want?"

Reticence isn't typical of Gordon, and so the few moments it takes him to shuffle his feet and clear his throat are particularly telling, indicative of something that might even be doubt, in the brother who tends most often to speak without thinking, and to say things he doesn't mean. Something about the set of his jaw and the way he straightens his posture should be the warning, but somehow Virgil misses the significance. Finally he clears his throat and gets right to the point.

"I want to go to London."

Dead air. Silence falls in TB2's cockpit. It's late in the afternoon, but none of the South Pacific sunshine makes it into the hangar, the lights glaring through TB2's forward ports are bright, sterile halogens. Virgil hasn't bothered starting up much more than the bare minimum of his 'bird's internal systems, just enough to power the forward console, enough power to light up the underside, so he can work. So it seems darker than it should be, seems like there's a shadow cast between them, in the one place where they've always worked together, regardless of whatever disasters are going on outside.

And abruptly Virgil doesn't want to be sitting on the ground for this discussion, doesn't want to be at any kind of disadvantage. So he gets to his feet, folds his arms across his chest, squares his shoulders. Answers the set of Gordon's jaw with a challenging lift of his chin. In short, does all the things he always does to remind Gordon that he's younger, smaller, and not nearly as stubborn, and if they get in an argument, it's not one Gordon will win. Virgil responds, appropriately scathing, "And just why would you wanna do a dumbass thing like that?"

This is where the exasperation belongs, this is where Gordon's supposed to spark up into defiance, defense against the shot Virgil's just taken. He doesn't. He's steady, even and calm as he answers, "Well, because I was the last one to find out when all this shit went down, and then I had to wait four damn days before John got to come home, and now it's been a whole fucking week, and I still haven't gotten to see my dad in the flesh. Kinda getting a bit done with that whole state of affairs, if I'm honest. Dad's in London. So I wanna go to London."

Language aside, there's no heat in it. None of the temper Virgil might've been hoping for, none of Gordon's usual fire. He seems to have taken a page from Virgil's own playbook, and remains insistently even-keeled.

So Virgil supplies the temper instead, shakes his head and sighs as though it's the stupidest idea he's ever heard, and radiates disdain, contempt for the idiot who'd think it up. "No. No way. The Hood's still out there. You've already been fucked all to hell by tangling with him, you're in no kinda shape to travel."

His brother rubs at the back of his neck, a little awkwardly with his right hand. "I'm not exactly gonna be straining myself on a commercial flight to London. First class the whole way, I'll pop a couple codeine, it'll be fine."

"You're staying here; you're supposed to stay here. Those are Kayo's orders, not mine."

"Yeah, well, I cleared it with Kayo already."

"Bullshit."

Gordon shrugs. "Man, call and ask her, I don't care if you don't believe me. If she thought it was dangerous, I wouldn't do it, but she doesn't, so I'm gonna. It's not like I need your permission, Virg—what I do need is a lift to the mainland, I'm still not clear to fly myself anywhere. But it's starting to get pretty obvious that I'm not gonna get one from you, so forget it. That's fine. Just...consider this a heads up, I guess. When Alan gets outta bed, I'll work it out with him."

"Gordon, you're not going anywhere."

This was never going to work, the result of the statement was never going to be Gordon going "oh, okay then, clearly I was mistaken" and dropping the matter. But that's not actually Virgil's objective, facing off against his little brother. It's a very, very rare occasion when Virgil wants to start a fight, and there's really no one else available to start it with.

It's still not working. All he gets in response is a knowing, unimpressed sort of look—the sort that doesn't belong on Gordon of all people—and he changes tactics and asks, "Why don't you want me to go?"

"We need you here."

"What for?"

"John needs—"

Gordon interrupts, "John barely even knows where he is right now. There's four other people here, all fully capable—individually or as a unit—of looking after John. We're all tripping over each other and crowding him, as it is. If John cared one way or the other about whether or not I stay, then that'd be different, but honestly, I don't think he'd even notice." There's a pause, reproachful. "And you shouldn't be using him as an excuse, when we both know that's not what your actual problem is."

"My actual problem," Virgil echoes, and he can sense the edge of the encounter, the upcoming brink in the conversation, the one there's still time to back away from. He doesn't. "You think what Dad did to our brother somehow isn't my actual problem?"

Gordon shakes his head. "I think blaming Dad for everything that happened to John is a cop-out, and you aren't helping John or anybody else by making Dad into a villain. It's not that simple, Virg, and I know you know that. You want to be angry and I get that, I really do. But, like, I'm just saying—maybe you wanna be kinda careful, being angry about this."

It's funny, because Virgil's aware of the way their roles have reversed. He can hear himself in what Gordon's saying, knows that he's half the reason Gordon knows to say these kinds of things, because they're the sorts of things that usually get said to Gordon.

But it's hypocritical bullshit, that Gordon would try to frame this whole situation as though Virgil's pitching a tantrum, when the reason's Virgil's got to be angry are just better than any of the reasons Gordon ever has. Gordon gets angry about things that are small and petty and stupid; random, pointless injustices, or complicated things he hasn't tried to actually understand. When Gordon gets angry, he's loud and obnoxious and obvious about it, he doesn't have the decency or the good sense to keep it to himself, to work his way through it like a rational adult. Invariably, when Gordon's angry, he decides to make it Virgil's problem.

Well. Fine.

"What the fuck do you think you're talking about, Gordon?" His hands clench into fists and he can feel the dam starting to burst, all the fury he's kept so carefully pent up is starting to come unbound. "What the hell could you possibly know, when it comes to what I've got to be angry about? If you knew even half of what I've been told about this whole fucked up situation, then you'd be just as pissed as I am. More, probably."

"I know plenty." Gordon hasn't backed down, but he still hasn't been baited up into anger of his own. He shifts his weight and looks away for a moment, but his tone is still firm when he answers, "Virg, if I wanted to be mad about all this shit, you know I would be."

"You don't—"

"I know you don't get to dictate how I should feel about Dad. Maybe I get where Scott's, coming from, maybe I want to understand the reasons for what Dad's done, before I decide that it was a hundred percent selfish and evil and that we should all hate him now. That's not gonna happen for me unless I get to sit down and actually talk to him. So, London. Because you told Scott that you didn't think Dad should come home for a while. You told him it was for John's sake. And I think that might make you kind of a liar, Virg. I know it's really fucking unfair."

Virgil hadn't actually expected anybody to find out about that, a sort of quiet conversation he'd pulled Scott aside for, just before he'd taken Thunderbird 1 to follow their father to New York. It seems like a violation to find out that Gordon's done the exact same thing. "You've been talking to Scott—"

This finally gets a flare of anger out of Gordon, and he interrupts again, vehemence building in his tone now, "Yeah, I've been talking to Scott. And Dad, too, when he has time. Because despite the way you're behaving, it's not actually a horrible transgression to want to talk to the rest of our family about what we're all going through. And they both deserve to know how John's doing."

Virgil scowls at that, folds his arms across his chest, and glares at his little brother. "Dad doesn't deserve to be anywhere near John, and he sure as hell doesn't deserve to know how he's doing, when what's happened to John is his goddamn fault. And Scott—if Scott wants to know how John is, he can fucking well come home. He should've come home. He knows what Dad's done and he's given him a pass. As far as I'm concerned, Scott's chosen his side."

Something in his tone or his choice of words makes Gordon flinch visibly, and for a moment the heat leaves his voice, and there's a little bit of pain, a little bit of pleading when he says, "Virg, there aren't sides, for chrissakes. Don't talk like that, please, it's not gonna help. I know nothing's okay right now. I know John's been wrecked, and that's awful. It's hard to see him like this, I get that. I know Dad's done some shit and I know a lot of it was bad, and I know we've all been hurt by it. But this is the kinda thing that could tear our whole damn family apart. Virgil, you don't wanna make that worse."

"Try me."

It's starting to get claustrophobic in here. Gordon's probably not blocking the hatch down to the cargo bay on purpose, and Virgil probably doesn't need to shoulder past him as he decides it's time to leave. He remembers a fraction of a second too late about his brother's fractured ribs, and general state of recent injury. He's not sure if it's guilt or denial that has him ignoring the choked, protesting little grunt of pain he gets in response. It's Gordon's own fault for looking for a fight and if he has any damn sense, he'll take the over-wing exit and vacate the hangar entirely.

Of course, Gordon's never been burdened with an abundance of any kind of sense, and despite busying himself with a panel on the side of Pod A, Virgil still hears Gordon's muttered cursing as he makes his way gingerly down the ladder into the hold. He's being an idiot, with his severed finger and his fractured ribs and his recent concussion and his stupid bare feet. As a backup plan, Virgil's got the module door wide open, a big glaring invitation for his brother to leave, but he doesn't take it. Instead he approaches, pauses just outside of Virgil's reach and Virgil can hear it in the long silence that Gordon's trying to figure out what to say.

Virgil doesn't give him the chance, and rounds on him before he can start up, "The hell are you on about, anyway, trying to pull the whole rational adult routine all of a sudden, Gordon? You think I'm not entitled to be a little bit pissed off about the state of things right now? Because I think that'd make you a fucking hypocrite. Pretty sure you spent the duration of this entire goddamn ordeal pitching a bitch fit about one fucking thing or the other. Pretty fucking sure that was you. Pretty sure you threw a tantrum in the middle of a mission while John was halfway dead of malaria. Pretty sure it was your melodramatic ass came and told me you hoped he'd been fucking kidnapped. Pretty sure you bit Kayo's head off after what fucking—"

And Virgil stammers to a halt.

And there's the sort of silence in which one might hear a penny drop.

Virgil and Gordon have a relationship that consists mostly of what goes unspoken. He couldn’t point to the moment when they’d first clicked together, when they’d become the pair who could work on a basis of wordless nods and action and reaction. Gordon just always seems to do what Virgil expects him to do, and vice versa.

So it's possible that Gordon knows what he's about to say, possible that he's watched Virgil making the connection, like a circuit completing itself. It's possible that Virgil notices the sudden tension in his brother, the way his spine straightens, the rigidity in his shoulders as he draws himself up, just slightly.

"London."

There's a minute tic of Gordon's jaw. Even if Virgil weren't staring at him, something between them changes, and his voice is unmistakable in its warning. "Yeah, London."

"Dad's not the only person in London."

"Yeah, well. Pretty sure there's about ten million people in London, Virgil."

So what what goes unsaid is that Virgil should back off. That this is new territory, unbroken ground. That they haven't talked about this, the way they've talked about so many other things; the way they always have.

Gordon’s got a tendency to say things he doesn’t actually mean. Mostly it’s the fact that he’ll stretch a truth or gild a lily for dramatic effect. That perfect opening line to any given conversation is one of Gordon’s biggest vices. So he’ll say things he doesn’t mean. Virgil’s got a knack for knowing what was meant.

Equally, he's got a knack for knowing what'll get to Gordon; what'll actually hurt him. The things he could say and doesn't, all the places where he knows his little brother's vulnerable. It’s Virgil who everyone credits with understanding how best to deal with Gordon, and rightly so. Every thought Gordon has plays across his features in the instant he has it, his emotions tell immediately in his body language, and Virgil's long since learned to read him like a book.

Everything about his little brother right now radiates the warning; Don't.

And he really should know better, but he's angry. He's so rarely angry, he doesn't know what to do with it. It's awful, muddled-up, directionless anger; anger about pain and injustice and at the ending of a story that had barely even started. Anger for his big brother, anger at his father, anger that hasn't had anywhere to go, until his little brother had so conveniently presented a target.

"Pretty sure you only wanna fuck one of them."

It's absolutely unsurprising when Gordon hits him. And Gordon's hit him before, but it's been years. Lately, Gordon mostly hits Kayo, and that's only if Kayo actually lets him, and only because Gordon and Kayo know it about one another; that sometimes throwing a punch is the only way to work through things. All blows struck between Kayo and Gordon are hundred percent consensual and expected.

What is surprising is that it's a blow from the right—Gordon's left—and so it drops the both of them. Virgil, flat on his back with his head ringing, and Gordon to his knees, cradling his hand to his chest and swearing in the sort of way that would probably shave a few hours off their grandmother's lifespan, before she turned right around and cussed him out in language equal to or worse than his own.

It's a credit to both his left hook and his general durability that Gordon's back on his feet first, though out the corner of the eye that isn't already swelling shut, Virgil can see that there's already red staining the bandages on his hand, and that he staggers, gasps a little sharply when he stands. There's a moment between them, but only a moment, and Virgil's still a little too dazed to know what exactly it meant. He blinks, or thinks he does, but when his eyes open again, Gordon's gone. And there are tears, trailing from the corner of his eye and into his hair.

wow! that was really kind of awful! hey you read a solid 4k! good job! here is a deleted scene for you!

#heavenward fanfic #hw8 #some kind of creative doubt

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anxiety-trademark · 4 years ago

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The week in review:

Raw 11/23 NXT 11/25 NXT UK 11/26 Smackdown 11/27

Raw:

Such a hollow promo by Lana tbh. “I’m dreaming, don’t wake me up.” ??? You were the sole survivor by proxy, it’s not like you did anything. Like good for you, but come on now.

I mean sure, hand out a title shot to fucking Lana, not like anyone else in the entire company cares about that belt. God I miss Becky.

“You may go home Raw women’s champion” HAHAHAHAHAAHHA sure.

“Nikki Cross blames herself for what Alexa Bliss has become,” she should, she straight up threw her hissy fit cuz she didn’t win the title, and then she bailed.

Now don’t get me wrong, I get that Alexa has been... possessed, if you will, by Fiend... but I’m not seeing any signs of Stockholm Syndrome when it comes to her and Bray. Aren’t they both trapped by Fiend in lore? Bray seems to genuinely care about Alexa. Am I off the mark here??

Oh my god this moment of silence for the fucking frog, I--

Topped with them laughing about his death, oooookay. I’m left speechless once again.

Commentators come back with, “Is Alexa Bliss too far gone...” LMFAO bye.

See I love this bullying Lana storyline cuz Nia and Shayna have no real reason to despise her 1/8th as much as they do. It simply boils down to ‘fuck Lana’ and like your typical high school bullies, they seethe when their victim succeeds at anything. It’s old school, believable, and doesn’t cross any lines that would upset parents or sponsors.

Also don’t get me wrong, I’m well aware that this title match is just a vehicle to advance the feud while involving Asuka, I simply wish the creation of the title match itself had been a bit more interesting. Lana’s dialogue ahead of it with both Sarah and Asuka just fell flat for me.

Omfg Asuka threw water on Nia and Shayna, bahahahah I can’t breathe. That might be the highlight of her entire reign, holy shit.

Negative points for her being floored by one punch though.

Well at least the segment ends with both Asuka and Lana standing, that’s not the worst.

Not much to say about this match, it’s really just Nia and Shayna bullying Lana lol.

I’ll give them this, there is absolutely nothing about neither Nia nor Shayna that is even remotely likeable. They play mean really well, and not ‘annoying yet funny’ mean like Bayley, just straight mean.

It’s not that I hate this submission ‘hold’ by Shayna, where she steps on the back of their neck while pulling a leg back, but I’m curious why she switched legs lmao. Awkward.

What a knee strike by Shayna to Asuka, whew that looked nasty.

Lmfao Nia took herself out by charging into the announce desk. I cannot. What a bump. Comedic bump, but a bump. Points.

Haha Shayna ate a rollup. A happy ending indeed. Lana sold that ending well, but it was a weird choice to have her and Asuka on the opposite ends of the ramp.

It’s been like 2 years and I’m still shocked Alexa never turned on Nikki.

This video is kind of just skipping over Nikki throwing her tantrum huh? Alexa played backseat cheerleader just to watch Nikki lose against Bayley 16 times and what did she get in return? Disrespect. Tsk.

Great package though. Points.

Nikki is so inconsistent. Internal conflict is valid, but she’s standing here claiming Alexa gave up on their friendship. First of all, this was initially instigated by Nikki. Second of all, she did nothing but trash Alexa’s boyfriend(?) when Alexa was nothing but kind to her after Nikki was a douche. She was confused so she gave Alexa an ultimatum, and now she’s pissy cuz Alexa chose him. This is toxic, I honestly have no sympathy for Nikki.

“I’m going to beat the Fiend out of Alexa Bliss” that’s... that’s not how this works... alright well you’re a shitty friend so, anyway.

Alexa slaps the back of Nikki’s hands and claims she won. I fucking can’t, she’s such a treat.

Lol Alexa’s just laughing at her.

My first introduction to Alexa was her as a master manipulator. Not a damn thing has changed.

Alexa has lost her god damn mind rofl.

*Bonus* online exclusive: victim Nikki, everyone. Why wasn’t this on Raw? Jesus they fill Raw with so many garbage replays while meaningful interviews to fill plot holes are put online. Dumb.

Lacey’s really running around calling Peyton “PeyPey” good lord.

I mean she’s right, Peyton was the weakest link. Just saying.

“10 sizes too big” shot at Uncle Melted Cheese.

I fucking love how Lacey pronounces “opportun-tit-ies” lmao. I thought it was an accident at first but honestly it’s great.

They have zero chemistry in the ring but at least they’re fun outside of it.

Highlight: I know I say Alexa every single week but shrug it’s Alexa

---

NXT:

Alright Ember’s theme is wearing on me. She just has awesome theme songs.

Indi is really pretty and I love how she does her hair.

All nxt heels are the same; cowardly run from fights, slow methodical wrestling in the ring, recruiting muscle optional. It’s tired. At least be a good promo. Dakota is a good promo. She’s buyable. Actually where’s Dakota, I wanna see Dakota wrestle. No more Candice.

Holy shit that fall away slam onto Candice. Fucking THREW her ass across the ring. Whew everyone wave bye to Candice.

The setup to that step up senton by Candice was way too obvious.

Candice is too whiny.

Ah just as I’m beginning to get bored, Dakota comes out. It’s like nxt knows me.

Haha KO correcting Vic being a bad commentator.

See Candice isn’t even a bad wrestler, her style as heel just fucking blows.

Peeped that call by Ember.

Such a stupid setup to have Indi push Candice out of the way to take an Eclipse herself. It’s not like jumping in front of a bus. There was time. Whatever. I hate Candice matches 9 times out of 10 so there’s that lol.

...so is Toni a heel yet??? I’m guessing they’re going for “badass loner babyface-leaning tweener” for Ember, but Toni is not a tweener. She could’ve been, alas she is not.

Haha Toni is funny. Good, let her be heel. Maybe she’ll show some personality.

Alright but hear me out, what if we had a War Games team without Candice???

You did say we’d see a whole new side of you, Toni. Been waiting to see it though.

Wait back up, didn’t Toni attack Candice after their match recently?? Okay anyway.

“Rhea Ripley/Io Shirai? Doesn’t get any bigger than that.” True Rhea, now move up to the main roster plz.

Oh man Io’s basement dropkick fucking nailed Rhea in the face lol, oof.

“Where do I go from here?” TO THE MAIN ROSTER.

I don’t hate the tank and I don’t hate the idea of wearing a helmet, but those horns are super pointless.

Shotzi “pyromaniac” Blackheart. Stealing one of Alexa’s gimmicks.

It’s gonna be Shotzi, Io, Rhea and Ember, right? Who else would it be??

Rhea says she’s there to stay. Ma’am I stg if I have to wait til after wm to see you on the MR...

Me: super invested in Rhea cutting a fantastic promo and seeing how far she’s progressed as a well-rounded talent; Candice: “lol fuck you”

I hate Candice. I will fill this review with vitriol for Candice, I don’t care.

How... how did Io “steal” any victories from Candice? What help did she have? Is it drugs? Is Candice on drugs?? Candice you haven’t even held the title, shut the fuck up. Also all of y’all can sit down cuz only one woman on that entire brand has had a singles match at wm.

Oh shit they laid Io out. That’s a yikes.

In kf, the only threat to Rhea on that entire team is Toni.

I mean sure 4 people was way too much for Rhea to handle, but man they let her look pretty fucking good. The way she immediately slid out to give Raquel the high boot was smart as hell.

Dakota looks good. She gets style points.

Soooo Xia gets acting points, but what in the fuck is going on with her and Boa’s story...

Why do I have to see or hear Candice again? Jesus lord.

There’s someone else masked? *sigh* I don’t care, goodbye.

Highlight: Rhea’s promo that Candice ruined

---

NXT UK:

I enjoy watching neither of these women wrestle, but at least Jinny’s persona is appealing and she has solid character work. She’s easy to dislike, so she gets heel-potential points.

Did they say Isla’s mentor is Nikki Cross? That’s... interesting...

So is this match gonna be interrupted by Piper? Probably not.

“This is an aggressive Isla Dawn,” well hey, maybe she actually started working on her stamina.

Jinny is vicious lmao.

Probably Isla’s best showing tbh.

I hate it when people jump off the top turnbuckle and then break into a slow, clunky roll, just to stand up and act as if their knee is tweaked. It’s so messy to me. Be smoother or don’t aimlessly jump off the turnbuckle.

Whole lotta yelling in the match.

Really don’t give a shit about a future Jinny/Piper match but okay.

Highlight: Jinny comes off as a vicious bitch, so that’s nice

---

Smackdown:

Oh snap Bianca’s graphic has some real potential.

Ayyyeeee it’s Captain Bayley. We starting our Bianca/Bayley feud?

oof Nattie straight outsmarted Bianca as the vet, there. Bianca friggin speared that ringpost.

“I think I did the world a favor, we got to see Bianca Belair shine,” she’s not wrong, Bianca was absolutely my mvp from SvS. In hindsight speaking from current day, Bayley really set up Bianca to be the upcoming star of this division, starting with SvS.

Oh snap did Bianca just call Nattie a bitch? How dare she, that’s Nattie’s only patented insult!

“You don’t want to get counted out again,” lmfao Bayley’s so annoying.

pppffffftttt Bayley inadvertently getting her ass whooped tonight.

Yeah somehow this is all Cole’s fault lol.

No, stop, no more “them” promos. Bayley cut this promo literally a year prior, we don’t need to hear it from Carmella, too. Besides, she was never necessarily a fan favorite that the crowd gradually turned against like Bayley was. It’s different.

WHAT SHOTS ARE YOU CALLING?? Is this about Reggie? Has he even appeared on screen yet?

Lmao Sasha beating her ass. Good for her. Looking good while she does it, too. Sasha in shiny silver... whew.

The wwe shop ad with the Riott Squad was worth a mention. They entertain me and they deserve tag titles. Not sure why wwe is still dragging their feet, but commit to them already, damn it.

Highlight: Bianca/Bayley seeds being planted

---

*Smackdown shined the brightest this week. Short, simple, straight to the point. Left me wanting to throw on next week’s episode, which no other show accomplished.

#wwe #issa review #feel free to ignore these #cuz who tf cares lesbihonest #today's props goes to:#bayley

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lonnyrocketreviews-blog · 6 years ago

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Rupaul’s Drag Race Season 10 Power Rankings - Ep. 12, American

This is the only show I can simultaneously love and hate at the same time. I sipped the tea, then flipped the table. This episode is a choice example of wishful thinking gone wrong. I need to start remembering that I can’t influence the course of history with just sheer willpower and prayers to Divine. I’m not so sure Divine even watches the show from her seat in Hell. She’s probably more into Dragula. Maybe I am too. Here we go.

Like fucking duh there would be a top 4 in the finale. Sasha’s roses were so fucking epic, you KNOW they’d try to get some magic like that on the show again. I shoulda expected as much. My rankings from last week hold true for me though. There might TECHNICALLY be a top 4, but spiritually, emotionally, and all other -ally’s, there is only a top 3.

These rankings are my predictions for who Ru and fans will pick to be the winner, from least likely to most likely (wait this is how I’ve always done it)

#4. Kameron Michaels I think a decent chunk of Drag Race fans relate to Kameron (I do not). I imagine she appeals a lot to the buff, masc4masc, reserved but catty as hell WHITE gays. This is my least favorite flavor of queer person, so I have a distaste for Kameron Michaels. She’s not BAD. She’s a good drag queen. but America’s next drag SUPAHSTAH needs to be a GREAT drag queen across the motherfucking board. Kameron can sing, dance, make oufits, paint4filth and lipsync the housedownboots. Good. She isn’t funny, can’t act, and doesn’t have much of a personality. See, talent is only 1/4 of CUNT. You need heart, and lots of it. You need a story, a perspective, a path you can hurl the art form of drag towards and Kameron Michaels does not have that. If she really dove into her nerdy side more, maybe. But now...she’s like....Katy Perry or something. Vanilla.

#3. Asia O’Hara Now, into the actual top 3. Asia might notta done the best in the competition, landing in the bottom a few times, but she has the biggest heart IMHO. She actually is great across the board. She’s funny, can perform, can act, and she (usually) has sick’ning outfits. Her runway this week was so goddamn good. (Sidenote: can we please let the marcel wave die). She’s still very pageanty, an attitude not a ton of fans relate to, but Ru loves her, and so do I.

#2. Eureka Now, I’ve been pretty certain most of the season that Eureka would win the whole thing, but within the last 2 episodes, it’s really become neck and neck between her and Aquaria. Eureka has done really well in the competition. She’s easily gotten the most screentime, and most of the queens seem to like her.......I think...? About that, a lotta people love Eureka, that’s undeniable, but for some reason, a lotta fans HATE her. I don’t hate her. I’m not really sure why anyone would HATE her. Yeah she’s a bit...noisy, but the only reason I wouldn’t wanna see her win is cuz it’d be way too predictable and feel forced. She seems genuinely compassionate, she’s smart, gots interesting looks, she’s pretty funny, can dance, etc. Eureka actually does have it all and we got force fed her fucking STORIES all season. She could easily take the crown. I think she deserves it, and I won’t be surprised one bit if she wins.

#1 Aquaria It’s a tough call, but as of this episode, I think Aquaria might eek out a win right from under Eureka’s nose. There’s obvious points, like how Aquaria hasn’t ever been in the bottom and has won the most challenges and is in the highest ranks of drag fashionistas, but merits like that didn’t do shit for Shea Coulee (still mad). But Aquaria has something else. She’s cool. Like ACTUALLY cool. Her story felt organic, moreso than Eureka’s for sure. She didn’t come in armed with the tragic backstories of living with HIV or a broken knee or dead parents. She came in with a face like Cracker’s and a babbling problem, but that’s why I like Aquaria. She’s fun, and real. And she flingin flanging holyshitbuttfuckin BLEEDS drag. THAT is what I look for in a drag winner. Someone who lives and breathes and bleeds drag. Aquaria is the art in the artform, but guess what, she’s also fucking funny, can perform and dance like crazy, can act, can do it all. Most WINNERS don’t even stand up to the amount of raw talent she’s got. It’s a little disturbing. She’s like the perfect drag super robot. Ok. chill. I think Aquaria deserves this the most. If she doesn’t win, I could assumed it’s cuz she’s slightly too much like Violet or Sasha as a fashiony/art winner. Eureka checks off way more boxes (big girl, etc). So we’ll see...wishful thinking might jinx me again, but whatevs.

All that said, all 4 bitches did SO great in the American dance challenge, so I wasn’t surprised Ru kept them all to go forward.

Anydangway, I’ve said my bit about who I want to win. Because there will no doubt be another stupid lipsync tournament to crown the winner instead of using actual credit, I will commence holding my breath until the winner is crowned starting in

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aion-rsa · 8 years ago

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The Buy Pile: Brains Over Bluster

WHAT IS THE BUY PILE?

Every week Hannibal Tabu (winner of the 2012 Top Cow Talent Hunt/blogger/novelist/poet/jackass on Twitter/head honcho of Komplicated) grabs a whole lotta comics. These periodicals are quickly sorted (how) into two piles — the “buy” pile (a small pile most weeks, comprised of planned purchases) and the “read” pile (often huge, often including comics that are really crappy but have some value to stay abreast of). Thursday afternoons you’ll be able to get his thoughts (and they’re just the opinions of one guy, so calm down, and here’s some common definitions used in the column) about all of that … which goes something like this …

THE BUY PILE FOR JANUARY 4, 2017

Unstoppable Wasp #1 (Marvel Comics) — Jump from the Read Pile.

Nadia Pym is indefatigable. Like a super powered Energizer Bunny, she makes Kimmy Schmidt look like Debbie Downer and laps Squirrel Girl like she was Eeyore. She dives into heroism with a lust for life that’d have Iggy Pop giving a slow clap and her infectious enthusiasm and brilliance bursts out of every panel here. “Princeless” writer Jeremy Whitley has bottled lightning with this wonderfully balanced script that does great explanations (only once going a bit heavy handed, and even there in character), has solid action based on real world science and hits Bobbi Morse in a place she thought she couldn’t be touched. The visual presentation by Elsa Charretier, Megan Wilson and Joe Caramagna is vibrant in places, intimate in others and perfect all around. This, finally, is a hero we deserve.

What does the night hold for Bruce Wayne in “Batman” #14?

Batman #14 (DC Comics) — Jump from the Read Pile.

This issue made the jump by honing in on what the Bat really does and has Catwoman both marveling at it and mocking it while a clock ticks. You see the craft Tom King puts into this work, and while from a conception standpoint the Sisyphean futility and ridiculous nature of many of these conflicts (Condiment King? Film Freak?) takes away some significance here, the craft stands up to scrutiny. Let’s also note the amazing visuals from Mitch Gerads and Clayton Cowles, which brought the Gotham City night alive.

WHAT’S THE PROGNOSIS?

With two endlessly re-readable jumps to start us off, that’s a rock solid start.

THIS WEEK’S READ PILE

Honorable Mentions: Stuff worth noting, even if it’s not good enough to buy

In this episode of “Making A Murderer,” er, “Justice League” #12 Amanda Waller uses several buckets full of exposition to give us the new, much more morally flexible, bwa-ha-ha free Maxwell Lord, outlining his rise to power and rationales behind it. Not bad as a Wiki entry, or something for one of those sourcebooks everybody refers to, but not exactly prime time viewing.

“Hawkeye” #2 is closing in on being good with fantastic characterization but can’t connect on its plot. Fun art, some fun moments (extra points if you catch the meme reference) but still falling short.

“Autumnlands” #14 had some quality moments as creations defied the goddess they credit with their making. The splash page may overly titilate some more prudish readers, but this book has the vocabulary of myth down pat. It could use a little more context for its impossible characters, but it’s not bad at all.

The “Meh” Pile Not good enough to praise, not bad enough to insult, they just kind of happened … “Scarlet Witch” #14, “Aquaman” #14, “Star Trek Boldly Go” #4, “U.S.Avengers” #1, “Cyborg” #8, “Black Science” #27, “Death Of Hawkman” #4, “Optimus Prime” #2, “Moon Knight” #10, “Everafter From The Pages Of Fables” #5, “Nailbiter” #28, “Flintstones” #7, “Avengers” #3, “G.I. JOE A Real American Hero” #235, “Unfollow” #15, “Saga” #41, “Green Arrow” #14, “Champions” #4, “Big Trouble In Little China Escape From New York” #4, “Unworthy Thor” #3, “Green Lanterns” #14, “Walking Dead” #162, “Spider-Man 2099” #19, “Harley Quinn” #11, “Box Office Poison Color Comics” #1, “Squarriors Volume 2 Summer” #2, “Wicked + The Divine” #25, “Justice League Of America The Atom Rebirth” #1, “Jem And The Holograms” #22, “Justice League Vs Suicide Squad” #3, “A&A The Adventures Of Archer And Armstrong” #11, “Nova” #2, “Midnighter And Apollo” #4, “Ragnarok” #11, “Nightwing” #12, “Deadpool The Duck” #1, “Faith” #7, “Shade The Changing Girl” #4, “Wynonna Earp Legends Doc Holliday” #2, “Superman” #14, “Old Man Logan” #16.

No, just … no … These comics? Not so much …

“Captain America Sam Wilson” #17 was insulting in its ham-fisted fumbling around social justice buzzwords and complex issues of racial identity, micro-agresssions and the experiences of marginalized people in the country. Also, again, most of the book had the titular character not actually doing anything or having any effect on what happened. Give Misty the shield. Let’s stop this tedious exercise.

SO, HOW BAD WAS IT?

One bad apple can’t throw off the whole bunch.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

Two jumps make the first week of 2017 a certified winner and well worth it for fans of the art form.

THE BUSINESS

Did you get the first official newsletter from the Operative Network? There was a free comic book (written by the maker of this column) offered from the newsletter and a chance to win a custom sketch worth $45 as well as the “Soulfire Definitive Edition” volume one hardcover. If you subscribe now, you can get in on what’s coming in the January edition.

The writer of this column isn’t just a jerk who spews his opinions — he writes stuff too. A lot. Like what? You can get “The Crown: Ascension” and “Faraway,” five bucks a piece, or spend a few more dollars and get “New Money” #1 from Canon Comics, the rambunctious tale of four multimillionaires running wild in Los Angeles, a story in “Watson and Holmes Volume 2” co-plotted by “2 Guns” creator Steven Grant, two books from Stranger Comics — “Waso: Will To Power” and the sequel “Waso: Gathering Wind” (the tale of a young man who had leadership thrust upon him after a tragedy), or “Fathom Sourcebook” #1, “Soulfire Sourcebook” #1, “Executive Assistant Iris Sourcebook” #1 and “Aspen Universe Sourcebook,” the official guides to those Aspen Comics franchises. Love these reviews? It’d be great if you picked up a copy. Hate these reviews? Find out what this guy thinks is so freakin’ great. There’s free sample chapters too, and all proceeds to towards the care and maintenance of his kids … oh, and to buy comic books, of course. There’s also a bunch of great stuff — fantasy, superhero stuff, magical realism and more — available from this writer on Amazon. What are you waiting for? Go buy a freakin’ book already!

Got a comic you think should be reviewed in The Buy Pile? If we get a PDF of a fairly normal length comic (i.e. “less than 64 pages”) by no later than 24 hours before the actual issue arrives in stores (and sorry, we can only review comics people can go to stores and buy), we guarantee the work will get reviewed, if remembered. Physical comics? Geddouttahere. Too much drama to store with diminishing resources. If you send it in more than two days before comics come out, the possibility of it being forgotten increases exponentially. Oh, you should use the contact form as the CBR email address hasn’t been regularly checked since George W. Bush was in office. Sorry!

The post The Buy Pile: Brains Over Bluster appeared first on CBR.com.

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