#message from ruby!sans

[rubytale-chapter2]

Ruby!Sans: Sweet, im back now. Heya, it's been a while huh? Well I'm sure most of you have heard that me and Basic are getting married soon, really hyped for it. I plan on inviting all of my friends and family to the wedding, and also their friends and family to the wedding. Heh, to think I've known Basic for almost 2 years now, it's crazy how we went from just being supportive companions to being in a relationship. It's amazing how many things can happen in one year.

Speaking of one year, my birthday is coming up on the 24th, as well as the first anniversary of the rubytale blog which is.....not here anymore, b-but do not worry dear travelers, we can always celebrate here! Sure we lost a lot from the old blog a while ago, but we can always make new memories! I also want to thank everybody who never gave up on me, it's amazing to know that I have supporters that would never forget me no matter where I am. Because no matter what happens, I will continue to stand! Trust me if I can come back from the dead once I can do it again. There's no stopping me. Anyways if you guys ever need someone to talk to, feel free to send me a dm, I will always be here to listen. Later travelers. -Ruby!Sans

Basic by @susartwork

[bekkathyst]

Custom Wire Wrapped Necklaces

These are the stones I have available for wire wraps, for those of you who are interested!

If you would like to claim one, please be sure to read this entire post!

So here’s the rundown. Below is a picture with each stone numbered, and below that is the name of each stone, along with the price.

The price includes the following: the stone wrapped in the metal of your choice (sterling silver, 14k gold fill, 14k rose gold fill), an 18��� chain finished with a handmade clasp, and it includes free shipping worldwide! 

You will choose the style they’d like it wrapped in. There are three example pics below. 

Payment is due when the stone is claimed and all the options are chosen (metal, style, etc). PLEASE NOTE - these will be completed in late May 2023. I will aim to have them done before the end of that month. They take a long time to make, please make sure you’re okay with the wait before ordering. I put the utmost care into this and have extreme attention to detail, and when that combines with my busy schedule, it means that it can take a while. I always aim to get them done early, but sometimes it’s not possible. If you are buying one for a certain event or deadline please be sure to let me know when ordering, so I can let you know if it's possible for it to be completed before then!

To claim: send me a message over the instant messenger with your email address, the country you’re in, the stone you’d like to claim, the metal you’d like it wrapped in, and the style you’d like it wrapped in. I’ll then send your invoice and get started on your pendant! :) 

*Note* These are some of my best, highest quality stones! I’ve been collecting (and hoarding, if I’m honest) hundreds of top-quality stones for 10 years to build this collection I can share with you.

Here are all the stones:

Brecciated Azurite - $140

High-Grade Old Stock Ocean Jasper - $140

High-Grade Old Stock Ocean Jasper - $140

Lavender Quartz Facet - $155

Highest Grade Rainbow Moonstone - $180

Highest Grade Rainbow Moonstone - $175

Deep Red Garnet - $145

Watermelon Tourmaline - $145

Blue Apatite - $135

Genuine Spectrolite from Finland - $150

XXL Genuine Spectrolite from Finland - $325

Rainbow Obsidian - $135

Gold Sheen Obsidian - $120

Silver Sheen Obsidian - $115

Silver Sheen Obsidian - $120

Lavender Chalcedony - $135

Australian Crystal Opal Triplet - $125

Fire Agate - $125

Mozambique Rose Quartz - $120

Blue Labradorite - $125

Rare Purple Labradorite $145

Rainbow Moonstone - $130

True Silver Moonstone - $140

Lattice Sunstone - $140

Confetti Sunstone - $135

Star Ruby - $140

Chatoyant Sapphire - $160

Red Rutilated Quartz Facet - $135

Epidote Included Quartz Facet - $140

Clear Quartz Facet - $115

Black Tourmaline & Epidote Included Quartz Facet - $185

Harlequin Quartz - $160

Phantom Amethyst w/ Inclusions - $150

Ethiopian Opal - $155

Rare Genuine Andamooka Opal from Australia (15.8 carats) - $435

Vietnamese Ruby Gourd Carving (22.75 carats) - $425

Cat's Eye Pink California Tourmaline (San Diego co.) (12.3 carats) - $230

Morganite from Russia - $170

Chrome Diopside from Russia - $180

Pyritized Ammonite Fossil from Russia - $180

Dianite (Russian Blue Jade) - $160

Amazonite from Russia - $120

"Blueberry" Azurite Geode from Russia - $140

Uvarovite Garnet from Russia - $185

Mongolian Turquoise - $140

These are the styles you can choose from (I do very minimalist wrapping so the stone really shines through! And the wrapping is super sturdy!) 

Style #1 (prongs): 

Style #2 (symmetrical): 

Style #3 (asymmetrical):  

I will cross out each stone as they are claimed! 

Extra little note: I have some square wire if you prefer that to the round, just let me know!

Thanks, everyone :) 

[thoughtspresso]

Predictions for Oshi No Ko Ending

1. Anemone will be the one to find Katayose Yura's dead body.

In Japanese flower symbolism, Anemones or Windflowers represent death, bad luck, and forsaken love. And it just so happens we have a character named exactly that, who happens to be the only other character apart from Katayose Yura who loves being in the mountains.

Anemone will likely be climbing the same mountains on Yura's wishlist, and just like before, The Crow might lead Anemone to the dead body.

It's like Akasaka-sensei decided Spider Lilies are already too obvious a deathflag so he chose a different flower.

I'm taking the bet that Akane might be the person who figures out the connection between Yura and Kamiki, or Miki-san might simply show up on the news as a statement about his "dear friend Yura" who "disappeared".

Akane might also give the head's up to Aqua that she thinks Kamiki murdered Yura, and that would be a reason for the two to spend more time with each other again. (Might shove a wedge between Kana and Aqua again, if Aqua isn't already doing that himself lmao.) Either way, it'd be a convenient way for Akane to attempt to both "save" Aqua and also help him accomplish his goals without killing himself.

2. The person who texted Frill Shiranui is Miki-san.

Sylvanes made a fairly solid guess that Frill Shiranui works for Kamiki Productions. Whether or not he was necessarily correct on this, I'm making the bet that Yura's "best drinking buddy" Miki-san is connected to Frill professionally, and goaded Frill into pushing Ruby into the spotlight.

Some speculators say this might have been Aqua's ploy, but I I think this was incorrect. Aqua agreed with Kaburagi that money comes first and Frill was a more reasonable choice commercially. He even said that Gotanda should "grow up" and not choose Ruby just because of his artistic integrity.

Apart from the friendly, casual tone of the text message that really sounds like the "Miki-san" persona and the image of decanted whiskey as his profile picture, I think Kamiki is actually praying for Ruby's success as a star.

In fact, I think people misunderstood why he killed Katayose Yura. He didn't kill Yura because his serial killer MO was simply because he liked killing up and coming megastars who shone brightly. He killed Yura because:

(a) He hates Stars who lie, who sell a persona to their fans that is vastly different from who they are as people, which is why he hated Himekawa Airi and Hoshino Ai.

(b) He killed Yura because he knew that the project being offered to her was the lead role in The 15-Year Lie. And simply, he wanted Ruby to play Ai's role.

In a twisted way, I think Kamiki believes he is protecting his children, and the public in general, from being lied to any further by celebrities like Yura who deceive the public with their feigned innocence.

Honestly? I think the reason he killed their mothers was to protect them from growing up with mothers who lie and abuse their kids.

3. Kana might play Hoshino Ai in The 15-Year Lie.

Okay, okay, okay, okay. I know. I know. Unhinged fan theory. I get it.

Even AquaKana stans think this is majorly unlikely to happen. I agree in that, I think it's insane. But I keep coming back to what Aqua meant when he said that, "Kana is so easy to manipulate", and "It's more convenient for me to build a good relationship with Arima right now."

People tend to say, he's making silly convoluted excuses again, he just wants to spend more time with her. But I think a man who is resolute in his goal to off himself by proxy of martyrdom doesn't care to date the person he was protecting from a love scandal anyway.

There are a few key reasons why I think Aqua's "using" of Kana will result in her playing Ai's role.

First of all, I think Aqua's plan is to play Kamiki, to portray him in the worst possible way, and expose him as the murderer through the film. Through this, Aqua will bait his father into murdering him too, and thus Aqua's death can be used as legal grounds for charging Hikaru Kamiki with Homicide.

As established above, I think Aqua doesn't agree that Ruby is the best choice for Ai's role. There are a lot of parallelisms baked in between Kana and Ai. Apart from the shot-by-shot remake of Sign is B, Kana is also the best person to get stabbed and deliver the lines, "Some day I hoped the lies would become true. / I did my best. I worked hard. I lied with all my heart. / To me, lies are love. In my own way, I thought I was showing my love."

Besides, you saw anyone else say these same things?

Uhuh, you guessed it:

So is Kana gonna get stabbed? Hopefully in a movie, yeah.

I think it could happen as a result of Kaburagi's dissatisfaction with Ruby's performance.

Kaburagi's "finalized" casting isn't final-final yet, really. We can see that he swapped Aqua to play Kamiki instead of Himekawa who will now play Ryosuke the university student/stalker here:

Which makes sense! Aqua looks like his father, is closer to his age during the time of the events, and Taiki's age and height also better matches Ryosuke.

And even though the paper says finalized on Ruby's casting, Kaburagi's still not completely sold:

I think the swap will come as a result of Ruby being severely overworked and unable to keep up with the demands of her role, and the Dome performance that she might want to prioritize. She may even outright collapse from exhaustion, as foreshadowed by Kana:

Apart from Akasaka-sensei absolutely trolling us to death by Ai x Kamiki on-screen romance being portrayed by twins, then just outright pulling the plug on that for fun, I think it'd just make sense for Kaburagi to say it's better if we pair Aqua with Kana for this role.

Ruby doesn't even have to collapse or anything. She's so loved up with the idea of Gorou-sensei right now, Aqua could literally just tell her "this is what's best for the plan, you trust me, don't you?" And she would absolutely just go with it.

I said before that I think up until Mem-cho pointed it out, Aqua was wholly unaware that Kana had a crush on him and joined B-Komachi just because of him. I think now that he has the awareness, he'll ask Kana to do it, first to help Ruby, but also because he can only trust Kana to play this role because she is "Special" to him.

A repeat of:

It really is the only way that this scene therefore makes sense to me:

Bonus: if the Shima D masterpiece film doesn't draw Kamiki's attention to her, Kana playing the role of Ai definitely will. And if she delivers the role with so much honesty, it might change the trajectory of the story altogether.

4. Aqua's plan will backfire.

I explained a little above and in a previous post that Aqua misunderstands Kamiki's motives.

While we all like to shit on Aqua for being the World's Nicest Master Manipulator, we have to give him credit for the fact that when it's used for saving other people, he's been really effective at spinning a public narrative in his favor. Like in the cases of Akane's suicide attempt and Kana's Love Scandal.

If the goal is to get Kamiki to stab him in plain view of the public, villify his father, and make it easy to convict him for homicide once and for all, I think he will fail.

Kamiki will not kill him or go after him. In fact, I think Kamiki will shed his Miki-san persona and reveal the truth: he was Himekawa Airi's rape victim, and Hoshino Ai was a manipulative person who seduced him with the prospect of true love, then abandoned him when she got what she wanted, which was a family.

In the absence of any evidence that he had anything to do with their deaths, Kamiki might even use this momentum of propaganda to make the public believe that he's happy to finally be reunited with his children that these terrible mothers took away from him.

Heck, Taiki might hate Uehara so much that he'd be relieved to learn about Kamiki? And if he really is connected to Frill, and if Kindaichi still cares about him, there might be real people who would back him up.

Then, it won't be until Akane works with Aqua and everyone to bring the murder of Katayose Yura to light that Kamiki would actually be brought to justice.

[toujokaname]

HiMERU's 2023 Birthday Celebration

Characters: HiMERU, Anzu

"Fufu, thank you very much for your congratulations. HiMERU has been eagerly looking forward to your words."

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

Birthday Moment 1

HiMERU: (Phew... The earlier commotion seems unbelievable now. It's remarkably quiet.)

Oh, Anzu-san...? Thank you for your hard work at the party earlier. Have you finished cleaning up?

—HiMERU has been here drinking coffee and resting for a while.

💬 Once again, happy birthday.

HiMERU: Hehe, thank you ♪

You said it during the party as well, but it's always nice to hear, no matter how many times it's said.

💬 It smells nice.

HiMERU: —Ahh, is it this coffee's aroma? It's takeout from Cinnamon.

Shiina offered, "Here, have it after your meal," and handed it over. Feeling it would be rude to refuse, HiMERU accepted it gratefully.

Birthday Moment 2

HiMERU: Today's weather is nice. There aren't many clouds, so it should be clear tonight.

—If possible, HiMERU would really like it to be clear on Tanabata night.

What is it, Anzu-san? Hm, you want to meet here again later...?

💬 Is that okay?

HiMERU: Certainly, it's no trouble. HiMERU is available at that time.

There's just one more thing he has to do before the appointed time.

💬 It might be a bit late though...

HiMERU: You don't need to worry so much about that.

—Since HiMERU also has other matters to attend to, a later time would actually be more convenient.

Birthday Moment 3

HiMERU: In that case, let's meet here at the agreed time...

Well, HiMERU is considering returning to the ES building now.

Oops, apologies. It looks like a message just arrived from Hold-hands.

💬 Who's it from?

HiMERU: "I blew all my cash gambling, so lend me some! I'll pay you back triple as a birthday treat, yeah? ♪"

...That's what it says. Even without mentioning his name, it's obvious who it is, isn't it.

💬 I don't mind if you look at it.

HiMERU: Then, pardon. Hm, it's from Oukawa.

Everyone from Crazy:B is gathering at Cinnamon, so won't HiMERU come too... Since he's been invited, he must attend.

Birthday Night / First Part

HiMERU: Thank you for your patience. Apologies, HiMERU was a little late.

—Ahh, sure enough, it's clear tonight. You can see the Milky Way up in the sky.

Vega and Altair are visible as well. Look, over there...

Anzu: Are they the stars of Orihime and Hikoboshi?

HiMERU: Yes, that's right. They're the first-magnitude stars of Lyra and Aquila, respectively.

The town's lights make it a bit hard to see, but first-magnitude stars are exceptionally bright, so they're easy to find.

HiMERU: Speaking of which, HiMERU's birthday does fall on Tanabata. That may be why he received several presents with star motifs.

The Sweets Fan Club members even prepared a star-themed cake.

—Everyone must have put a lot of thought into giving gifts connected to HiMERU.

Anzu: It sure was a lively party.

HiMERU: Yes, it was. People kept coming to offer their congratulations, so it was quite hectic.

But, well, HiMERU thinks it was a chaotic yet enjoyable party.

HiMERU: —By the way, HiMERU missed the chance to give this to you.

Here you go, Anzu-san. It's coffee.

HiMERU brought it because he wanted to leisurely enjoy coffee with you.

Anzu: Thank you.

HiMERU: You're welcome. Thanks to Shiina's instruction on how to brew it, its flavor is guaranteed.

—Yes, it's as you guessed; this coffee is handmade by HiMERU ♪

Birthday Night / Second Part

HiMERU: Hehe, it's wonderful to hear that you enjoyed the coffee.

Watching the Tanabata starry sky over a cup of coffee is rather pleasant, isn't it?

...Oh? Anzu-san, you have a present for HiMERU?

Anzu: Here you go.

HiMERU: —Very well then, if you don't mind, HiMERU will open it.

Aah, what a beautiful brooch. The ruby-like deep crimson stone is quite dreamy.

HiMERU: What do you think? HiMERU thought it'd be a waste to just put it away, so he decided to try wearing it.

He didn't expect that you would organize a party for him, much less give him a present.

—Please let HiMERU do something to thank you.

Anzu: Don't worry about it.

HiMERU: Hm, you gave it because you wanted to... Is that right...?

Well then, next time we meet, please let HiMERU treat you to coffee again.

HiMERU: —The night is starting to wear on. It looks like some clouds are coming in as well.

We've finished our coffee, so shall we go inside before the wind picks up?

Thank you so much for today. Not only did you prepare the party, but you also arranged such a wonderful gift... It must have been tough, right?

Anzu: I enjoyed it.

HiMERU: Is that so... It's heartening to have people who give it their all for HiMERU's sake.

For your sake, HiMERU will strive even harder as an idol. Please look forward to HiMERU's future.

[ ☆ ]

[aihoshiino]

I'm the one who sent you a question about the interview in Da Vinci magazine and the recent one about Kana. I enjoyed reading your opinion a lot, so I did a bit of scrolling back and reading everything.

I saw your post about how Akane and MEM were not supposed to stay after the Love Now arc some time ago, but I am 100% sure Akane and MEM were supposed to stick around after the main arc. MEM is another piece that is related to Aka's grand game of guessing the ending, so I will avoid talking about it for now (but I think you already knew about this since Nobuyuki did called MEM by the nickname of ME-san). I actually planned to discuss this with you, but laziness got to me until Sneaky pissed me off on 4chan, and I just kind of wrote about this topic (such impure motivation) there. I figured I should share this here as well. 

For Akane, it is actually even more straight-forward than for Kana or Ruby. I used to ponder a lot about why Aka gave Ruby the Amaterasu line and Kana the image of the sun, but nothing for Akane. It doesn't really make sense because Aka is not the type who would give an easy answer to those actively seeking things behind his lies and riddles. In the sense of competition for who will end up with Aqua, not being linked to the image of the sun is a big red flag. In the more meta sense of children who are neglected by adults in the entertainment industry trying their best to shine and help others shine, it also doesn't make sense to have Akane never being put into the position of Amaterasu, even if there is only one real sun by the end of the story. The message should be that everyone can shine if they get help and are put into the spotlight. But eventually I arrived at the evidence that linked Akane to this whole Amaterasu/Sun thingy.

We start off with the real couple in Love Now: Nobuyuki and Yuki.

Nobuyuki Kumano (熊野ノブユキ). Nobuyuki is a name often written as 信幸 or 信行. If you read them in Onyomi, they are read as shinkou. The kanji for shinkou is 信仰. Together with his family name, Nobuyuki is a reference to the Kumano faith (熊野信仰). 

Nobuyuki's lover is Sumi Yuki (鷲見ゆき). The action of visiting the three grand shrines at Kumano is called Kumano pilgrimage (熊野詣). This action has been taken successively by many Emperors of Japan throughout history. When this action is taken by the emperor, it is referred to as miyuki (御幸). So Kumano Nobuyuki x (Su)mi Yuki is a reference to the three grand shrines at Kumano. Among the three, there is Kumano Hongu Taisha, which enshrines Ketsumiko-no-okami, which is Susanoo in Shintoism and Amida Nyorai (Buddha of Infinite Light) in Buddhism. Susanoo is also linked to Yatagarasu.

The 'su' part in Yuki's name is also special. 鷲 means eagle. In the myth about Amaterasu hikikomori phase, there was a god who played a string instrument. When Amaterasu finally stepped out of the cave and light returned to the world, an eagle landed on the end of the string instrument and the god perceived that eagle as an image of a bird who brightened the world. The one who played the string instrument in Love Now was Kengo Morimoto, so it is not just a random setting. 

Morimoto is a shrine in Shiga Prefecture that enshrines Amano-Iwato-Wake-no-kami (天石門別神) the god who is said to have also participated in getting Amaterasu out of her hikikomori phase. Nobuyuki is also a dancer just like Ama-no-Uzume. So we can say that in this arc, Akane was in the position of Amaterasu. Akane was written to be special from the start. 

As for the part why the dancer is not playing the active part, I think it is because Aqua is not a dancer, but Aka wanted the protagonist to be the one to save the day. The same happened in Tokyo Blade, when Kana specifically monologued about whether Akane wanted to 'dance' with her. In this arc, the one who was put into the role of Amaterasu is Kana, while Akane is Ama-no-Uzume. Both times, Aqua was doing the heavy lifting instead of the 'dancers'.

This is outside of the scope of the discussion, but the colours of the glowsticks were also not random. In Japanese, there is a thing called 紅白文化 that treats red and white as contrast colours. Ai, who has a red glowstick; Ruby, who inherted the red glowstick; and Akane, who has (Aka: red) in her name, all share certain traits that contrast with Kana to some degree. Also, Aka gave Akane the surname Kurokawa, which means Akane has something in contrast with Kana but that something is also different from Ai and Ruby. 

Publishing this one largely without commentary because I think it's some really interesting analysis and stands on its own without me needing to add to it! and also because poor anon has waited so long for a response... whoof

That said, re: Akane and Memcho - for what it's worth, I'm pretty sure their being later additions to the cast as opposed to being intended to join the story from their inception is something confirmed by Akasaka and Mengo. At the very least, in Mem's case, Aka and Mengo confirmed in the same interview where they talk about Ai's death being a during serialization decision; Mengo jokes about characters how surprising it is when certain characters who were intended to be one-offs end up becoming part of the main cast and Akasaka confirms that Memcho was one of these characters and that her role grew in the telling because he ended up liking her so much. She was not originally intended to join B-Komachi but he liked her and wanted her to continue having a role in the story and so it happened.

While it's worth noting that there is no direct confirmation that the same is true of Akane, I do believe it to be the case just based on how rapidly and how extremely her character changes post LoveNow. It's actually kind of jarring just how many of the things that come to define Akane in the latter half of the series like her rivalry with Kana and her genius actress analyst skills are like, transparently and hastily sellotaped onto her in the aftermath of that arc rather than existing as part of her from the start.

That's obviously not to say that she can't have grown into a role of more vital importance - she very clearly has! - but I just don't believe she or Mem were planned as big movers and shakers in the story from the start.

[wqintraining]

NEW X-MEN: THE ANIMATED SERIES - SEASON 3, EPISODE 7

 We open in a regal washroom, where Lady Akabba is being bathed in flower-scented water, and having her nails and feet scrubbed by servants. She’s relaxing and at peace, and is annoyed when her phone goes off. She sighs and blows it over to her, keeping it in mid-air, and we see that she still has an old group picture with all her old friends as her lock screen. 

Sofia smiles but doesn’t linger, as she checks her messages. She’s gotten a text from Garrison. He’s done his part, priming Quire for their needs, now he needs her to follow through on what Apocalypse promised him. Sofia texts back to consider it done. Today is going to be a big day. 

Sofia is dressed by her servants in her armor, sans mask, and takes her place on her throne. Akihiro stands at her side. 

SOFIA: “Is she here?” 

AKIHIRO: “Famine dropped her off last night before leaving to do whatever that repressed zealot does for fun.” 

SOFIA: “I wouldn’t be surprised if he just flagulates himself in the shower while crying.” 

Akihiro cackles. 

AKIHIRO: “Apparently the poor thing was on her way home from a Build-A-Bear when he grabbed her.” 

SOFIA: “That doesn’t surprise me. Bring her in.” 

Two mutants, Greycrow and Riptide, enter the throneroom, and drag in the unconscious body of Pixie, bringing her before Sofia. 

GREYCROW: “Want us to wake her up?” 

Sofia waves them off, getting up from her throne, and gently strokes Megan’s face. With a pop of air in her ears, she wakes her up herself. 

MEGAN, woken up with a headache: “Uhhh, I don’t feel so good.” She rubs her head. “I’m not wearing helmet. Did I hit my head?” Pixie fully wakes up and notices Sofia in front of her. “Sofia! What’s going on? Where are we?” She looks around her. “Who are all the buff, scary guys? And where’d you get the cool armor?” 

Sofia smiles with her lips together at her. Rather than explain anything, she promises Pixie she’s going to be okay. She is so weak and innocent, and there was once a time when Mutants could afford to be just that. But if that time is ever to return, then the Mutants of today must be strong. 

SOFIA: “And those who stand in our way must be eliminated.” 

She is going to help Pixie, and Pixie is going to help her. 

PIXIE: “Why are you talking like that Apocalypse guy from class?” 

Sofia, without a word, returns to her throne, and orders the spell to begin. Greycrow and Riptide each slash Pixie across the face, prompting her to scream, as the cultsits who line the wall chant. Sofia comments on how Pixie’s blood is mystical. She is not just a Mutant, but fae. And that means her soul can be used for many useful purposes. 

Sofia joins in the chanting, evidently having learned some magic from Apocalypse, as Pixie screams in agony, her soul exiting her body through the cuts on her face. 

This goes on until the ritual is completed. From one cheek, a sapphire pops out, caught by Sofia’s winds and brought over to her. From the other, the excess remaining portions of her soul take the form of a dagger that lands her now limp from unconsciousness hands. 

AKIHIRO: “I wasn’t even involved in that spell, and I feel like I just murdered a puppy with my bare hands.” 

SOFIA: “She will thank me for this one day. A fae soul dagger is no soulsword, but it is still formidable.” She eyes her real prize, the gem she just crafted. “Just as this sapphire is formidable…even if it’s no ruby.” 

We cut to the girls’ dorms at the school, first thing in the morning, where it’s Valentine's Day! 

Cessily and Roxy are naturally into the spirit of things, dressed in matching all-red outfits, with Roxy reading a homemade card Cessily made her, and absolutely loving it. She kisses Cess on the cheek, thanking her, and reminding her she’s got a gift coming to her every single hour until they go out for dinner, with her especially excited for hour four. Cess is clearly a little offput by this, meekly asking Roxy if she doesn’t think that’s a little much. 

ROXY: “What? No. Of course not. You know I love spoiling you. Especially after what we’ve been through.” 

Cessily tries her best to smile gratefully.

Rubbermaid, Preview, and Loa walk past the two, with Rubbermaid yammering to the other two about how amazing her boyfriend is, which is why it sucks he lives in Canada and can’t be here. The other girls clearly don’t buy it.   

Sooraya is holding a small pink box and talking to the Cuckoos. She tells them the card just said, “From you know who”, but she has no idea who it’s from. Mindee thinks it being a secret admirer just makes it more romantic, while Phoebe offers to scan everyone’s heads. Sooraya asks them to please, definitely not do that. 

CUCKOOS: “Your loss.” 

The Cuckoos and Soo walk off in different directions. The school’s newest student, Escapade, steps out of her room, yawning and looking like a mess, not having begun to get ready for the day. Her face lights up as she sees the Cuckoos. 

SHELA, waving: “Good morning, Cuckoos!” 

The Cuckoos just snicker, not even looking at her, as they walk past her. 

SOPHIE, whispering: “What is that jawline?” 

ESME, whispering: “Or that non-existent ass?” 

The Cuckoos intentionally laugh even louder as Shela looks depressed. Her roommates, Martha and Ernst, come up to her, with Ernst telling her not to take it too personally; everyone but the X-Men kids hates the Cuckoos. 

SHELA, confused: “Hate them? Why would I hate them?” 

Ernst looks at Shela like you would someone who just said their shoe tastes good. 

In the bathroom, Sofia is doing Laura’s makeup, telling her she looks amazing either without any or with the bare minimum she usually wears, but she promises just a little extra effort will make a world’s different. Laura, still in disbelief this is happening, is speechless, just widely grinning with her mouth open. 

“Hey, has anyone seen Megan, she never came back from…” 

Noriko enters the bathroom and is caught off guard by the sight of Sofia and Laura. 

NORIKO: “...build a bear. Sorry, I’ll go.” 

Noriko is about to leave the bathroom, but Sofia tells her to stop and wait. Sofia and Laura come up to her, with Sofia apologizing for her outburst after she found out about her and Julian. She’d been through a lot already, and finding out about Danger didn’t help. 

SOFIA: “But you are still my best friend. I am obviously over Julian.” She sends a little breeze under Laura’s nose to tickle it. “And I hope you two are as happy as Laura and I.” 

Noriko laughs nervously, so happy to hear all of this. And she’ll be sure to let Julian know Sofia doesn’t hate them so they CAN be happy. 

SOFIA: “Oh come here!” 

Sofia hugs Noriko, and Noriko hugs her back. Sofia shivers before pulling back. She’s sorry, she forgets how cold Nori’s gauntlets can feel. 

SOFIA: “If you don’t mind me asking, has Julian said anything about them? I hope they aren’t too uncomfortable for him in bed.” 

NORIKO: “He…hasn’t said anything.” 

SOFIA: “I am not surprised. He can be boorish, but when he LOVES you…well, you know.” 

NORIKO: “Yeah…loves. Um, hey, we should totally hang tomorrow, I’m sure we’veallgotvalentinesplansandIneedtofindMegan,bye!” 

Noriko super speeds off. With Laura behind Sofia, she can’t see as Sofia mugs evily for the camera, satisfied with how that went. 

LAURA: “She can be so weird.” 

Sofia instantly flips the switch back to her act, as she turns to Laura and giggles sweetly. 

We cut to Illyana’s room, where she’s just waking up, hair a mess, wearing an over-sized, custom made, “Magik Rulez” night shirt. She stretches her arms and yawns. 

MAGIK, kissing the plush next to her bed: “Good Morning, Giant Green Garfield.” 

Illyana hears a chirping, and notices Lockheed perched on one of her shelves. Yana barks at the dragon, asking if he was being a little perv and watching her sleep. Lockheed chirps again. 

ILLYANA: “Well, at least you admit it.” 

Yana comments how it was sweet of Kitty to hold onto all of her old things. Of course, it’d be sweeter if she’d stop avoiding her! 

YANA: “What’s the problem?! I’m the real me, give or take a soul, I know she loves me, so why is she being so weird about the kiss?!” 

Lockheed chirps. Yana sighs that he’s no help. She just wishes she knew what she was supposed to say. The Kitty she knew was a teenager. She doesn’t even really know who THIS Kitty is. Lockheed chirps. 

YANA, magically changing her clothes, fixing her hair, and growing her horns and tail: “No, I’m not going to wait and learn to get to know her! That’s boring! I’m just going to teleport us to Limbo and force her to hash this out there! Yeah, that’ll do it.” 

Illyana is saved from her own stupidity by a knock on her door. Kitty asks Illyana if she’s awake. She has a surprise for her. 

Illyana snaps her fingers at Lockheed and tells him she’ll save this for plan B. She grabs a seed from a jar and grows it into a rose. She then teleports into the hallway and greets Kitty, asking her if she was really waiting till Valentine’s Day to agree to go out with her like a sap. 

Her face falls as she notices who’s standing next to Kitty, holding her hand. 

COLOSSUS, wearing the most gentle smile possible: “Hello…little snowflake.” 

Illyana is stunned, but her face fills with rage, as she burns away her rose. 

In the cafeteria, Doop, who’s evidently the lunchperson on top of being the janitor, is serving a special Valentine’s day breakfast, with heartshaped pancakes and scrambled eggs dyed-pink. Doop is proud of himself, and smacks Anole on the head when he says the eggs look gross. 

Noriko speeds in, looking around for her friends, as a tray of food, surrounded by green energy, hovers into her hands. 

JULIAN: “One tray of gross cafeteria food, sparing you a wait on line. As requested, the only thing you want today, because Valentine’s Day is dumb.” 

NORIKO: “I didn’t say it’s “dumb”. I said it’s a misogynistic scheme by greeting card companies to make money by–” 

JULIAN: “by objectifying women and commodifying them. Yes, I pay attention.” 

Julian kisses her and Nori smiles. 

NORI: “Thank you.” 

As the two walk to their table, Julian putting an arm around Nori, he remarks that most girlfriends let their boyfriends just do this normally. Nori reminds him she’s not like other girls. 

NORI: “You…do like that, right?” 

JULIAN: “Duh.” 

The two reach their table, and find themselves the only ones there. Nori asks where everyone is. Julian explains that Laura, Sofia, Cessily, and Roxy are doing a double-date brunch, and Soo’s mom set her up with some Flatscan. Noriko asks about Brian, Quentin, and the Cuckoos, to which an annoyed Julian gestures at a table, where the seven of them are seated and laughing with Glob, Radian, Tattoo, and Redneck. 

Julian doesn’t care what Quentin does, and he’s not sure what’s up with the Cuckoos suddenly being so buddy-buddy with him, but he doesn’t like Brian hanging out with that crew; the latter four are total losers, always in detention. 

NORI: “You sure you’re not just jealous Brian’s finally got some other friends?” 

JULIAN: “I am NOT jealous.” 

NORI: “And you also wouldn’t see him as just another loser if he hadn’t been your roommate, right?” 

JULIAN: “Of course not!” 

Nori giggles and pinches his cheek. 

NORI: “I’m kidding.” 

Nori adds that, by the way, she’s got good news: Sofia doesn’t hate them! According to her, everything’s cool. Julian breathes a sigh of relief. That’s the only thing he needs as a gift today. They may actually be able to get things back to normal. 

JULIAN: “I never actually got to take her out dancing when we were dating. Think she’d be down?” 

NORI, jealous and insecure, as she picks at her food: “Oh, yeah. Duh. You know how she…loves dancing.” 

Back in the hallway, Pitor wraps his big arms around Illyana. He always knew his little sister would return to them. He never lost hope. 

PITOR: “I have missed you so much.” 

While Kitty is smiling over what she thinks is a sweet moment, Illyana scowls and shoves Pitor back, down, and to the floor. Kitty calls her out, but Yana isn’t listening.

YANA: “What are you doing here?!” 

PITOR, unsure what’s going on: “Scott called me.” Kitty helps the big guy stand up. “He told me you were back. Truly back. I had to see it for myself. Why are you not happy to see me?” 

Illyana sneers at him, then at Kitty. 

YANA: “Ask her.” 

Yana opens a stepping disc under herself. Kitty tells her to wait, but she’s already gone. 

Kitty sighs and apologizes to Pitor. She doesn’t know how much exactly Scott told him, but Yana’s revival was messy. Even more than revivals tend to be for them. Originally, she was just a demonic copy of Magik called Darkchylde, but then Jean swapped how much Mutant and demon there was to her, so now she’s mostly Illyana, but without a soul. 

Pitor thinks for a moment before smiling. He posits that even if she doesn’t have a literal soul, she must still have some kind. Without a soul, she could not laugh or cry or love. She has been through so much, and he has failed at times to keep her safe. So he understands. Whatever her issues with him are, he will be patient with her until she is ready to talk to him. 

KITTY, hanging off his arm as they walk: “This is what I’ve missed about you! Always looking on the bright side and seeing the best in things.” 

Also,  all this soul mumbo-jumbo talk reminds her: he should go say hi to Kurt! 

COLOSSUS: “Of course! I saw him recently, but there is so much time to make up for. And after that, I must speak with Cyclops.” 

KITTY: “What about?”

PITOR, beaming: “You and Magik are here. You’ve just lost Iceman. I believe the time has come for me to rejoin the X-Men.” 

In Noriko’s room, she and Julian are making out on her bed. In contrast to their previous intimate scenes, Nori, trying to make sure Julian has a good time, pulls his hand onto her ass. Julian laughs. 

There's a knock on the door. The teens are content to not move until…

DANI, disgusted: “Surge, I can hear you both.” 

Nori and Julian laugh and cough as they untangle and get up. Nori opens the door to find not only Dani, but a disheveled Megan, now with streaks of black in her hair, being held by her. The worried kids ask what happened. 

MEGAN: “I don't know. One minute I was making the cutest lil bunny rabbit, the next I woke up in an old, dusty factory. Everything hurt.” 

Megan runs from Dani’s arm into Noriko’s. 

MEGAN: “You said you'd keep me safe, right?” 

NORIKO, awkwardly hugging her back, her eyes focused on her gauntlets and perceiving them to be uglier than they are: 

“Yeah. Yeah, of course.”

Julian questions if this could be related to whatever caused Sofia’s amnesia, with Dani confirming the adults already had the same thought. 

Like usual, they don't want to spoil any special days for the kids, so Magneto and Emma are already investigating, along with Warpath, who's been Pixie’s new advisor since Beast left. 

DANI: “Pixie was just hoping she could get some sleep and privacy.”

Nori and Julian are of course fine with giving her the room, with Nori once again telling Megan she’ll smack whoever hurt her. 

The two + Dani leave the room, with Julian aggressively telling his old advisor that, whatever’s going on with Megan, to not let that Garrison creep near her. He turned Quentin from a dweeb into a jackass, and he doesn't want to see what he’d do to Megan. 

DANI: “For once Julian, we’re in agreement. But don't try giving me orders.”

JULIAN, smugly: “We’re X-Men, you're not. Don’t we kinda outrank you now?” 

DANI, not humoring this: “No. No, you don't.”  Dani whispers in Nori’s ear. “I don't know how you deal with this.” 

Nori chuckles as Dani walks off, upsetting Julian. Nori asks what the problem is, with Julian pointing out that he doesn't care if Nori teases him, that's their thing,  but she's his girlfriend; he doesn't want her laughing at him with other people, especially not the teachers. After all he's done for this place, it's BS he still gets treated like this. 

Nori makes a quiet crack about how he could just not say things like that, but does apologize and promises it won't happen again. As she says this, she puts a hand on him, which he swiftly takes off. 

JULIAN: “Sorry. Nothing about this. Just cold.” 

Nori’s eyes widen his horror as she clenches her fists. She stomps down the hall and tells Julian to follow her. She has something she wants to do today after all: see the last “person” either of them wants to. 

In the teacher’s lounge, Kurt and Pitor have a bro-hug. They may have just seen each other recently, but it’s still a sight for sore eyes for Kurt to see Colossus back where he belongs. Plus, they didn’t really talk too much about themselves. How has he been? 

Pitor explains that it hasn’t been easy for him. He returned home to Russia after Illyana’s death and the disbandment of the X-Men to help his parents, but life there wasn’t as he remembered it. It had changed. He had changed. The air was miserable. But he still got up every morning and took pride in the work he did. 

PITOR: “When Kitty called me about Darkchylde, I couldn’t hold back my hopes it would lead to something more. And now, my hopes have been rewarded.” 

Kurt is cheerful and excited for his friend. He hasn’t been able to spend too much time with Magik, but he’s sure Kitty can tell him more about how she’s changed. 

KITTY: “Yeah, totally, so when were you two hanging out?” 

KURT, trying to keep a secret: “Oh, you know, we just went out for–” 

PITOR, oblivious to Kurt trying to be discreet: “Much of the old X-Men gathered to mourn Warren at Braddock Manor. You should have come, Katya; it was healing.” 

Kurt cringes as Kitty focuses her crazy eyes squarely on him. 

KITTY: “Eeeeelf. Did you forget to tell me about something?” 

KURT: “What? No. Of course not.” 

KITTY: “Then why didn’t I know this was happening?” 

KURT: “Oh, you know, it really wasn’t that big a deal. Logan didn’t come either!” 

KITTY: “Logan hates these kinds of things. I love these kinds of things.” 

KURT: “It’s not what you think! There are just some harsh feelings still going around about Cyclops and–” 

KITTY, the realization dawning on her: “Aaaand, apparently about me for sticking around on the team. Wow. Nice, guys.” 

KURT: “No one is mad at you, I promise, we just weren’t sure how to–” 

Pitor laughs heartily. These two haven’t changed. 

PITOR, cupping Kitty’s chin in his hand: “Not that that is a bad thing.” 

Kitty blushes, but quickly frowns at him. 

KITTY: “Did you know?!” 

PITOR: “Of course not. I would have come to pick you up myself if I’d known you weren’t invited and carried you the whole way.” 

Kitty gets squishy at his words, phasing her chin through his hand a little. Just then…

SCOTT, walking down the hall: “Pitor! Good to see you again bud–”

Scott cuts himself off and makes a disturbed face as he sees Pitor and Kitty being flirty. Scott enters the teacher’s lounge and forces a smile as Pitor comes to hug him. Pitor cheers over seeing the old boss again as he crushes Scott in his arms, even without being in his metal form. 

KITTY: “Good news, Scott! We’ve got our replacement for Bobby right here!” 

PITOR: “I wish to avenge Archangel, and I believe I can further help Illyana adjust back to being human. If you will have me.” 

SCOTT, coughing as he’s let go: “Of… course. How could I say no?” 

Kitty and Kurt both cheer at Pitor’s return and high-five. 

KITTY: “Still mad at you.” 

KURT: “I know.” 

We cut to the school’s lab, where Danger is just…sitting there. Perfectly content, but unmoving. 

“Hey rustbucket!”

Danger turns her head to see Noriko and Julian.

DANGER: “Hellion. Surge. Happy Valentines Day. Have you completed the customary rituals of the holiday?” 

SURGE, cringing: “No. Danger. No we haven’t.” 

DANGER, curious: “I thought young, hormonal couples enjoyed excessive displays of romance.” 

JULIAN: “I mean…” 

NORI, exasperated: “I need your help!” 

DANGER: “Of course. Anything. I have been hoping for a chance to apologize for the pain I caused you.” 

Nori sighs. Danger has Kitty, Beast, and Forge’s data all inside her, right? Plus a genius mind of her own and complete mastery of technology? 

NORI: “No one has been able to help me control my powers without these stupid gloves. I can deal with a lack of control, but I don’t want to look at them anymore!” 

Nori isn’t sure if it’s possible, but she wants Danger to try mixing the tech into her body. Julian freaks, her not having gone over this with him, but she insists it’s the only thing they haven’t tried. He still doesn’t like the idea, not with how much could go wrong, but Danger jumps in, saying that cyborgs are not a revolutionary concept; she has plentiful data on them. She believes it could be possible to connect the tech in her gauntlets directly to her x-gene. 

DANGER: “If at any moment I fear you are in danger, I will stop the procedure.” 

Despite Julian’s protests, Nori’s puppy dog face gets him to go along with it. 

We montage as Danger runs scans on Nori, takes some blood, and preps her for the surgery, numbing her whole body. Eventually, Danger begins the procedure, one mainly reliant on her own abilities, and while lights flash and sparks fly, ultimately, Danger backs away. 

DANGER: “I am sorry, Surge. This is beyond my power. It is as  if your x-gene is resisting being melded with the technology.” 

Noriko looks like she’s about to cry, so Julian quickly just thanks Danger for trying, and gets Nori out of there, and into the hall. He tells her not to worry, that they’ll figure something else out, but Surge lashes out, tearing up and lighting herself up in electricity. This isn’t fair. She shouldn’t have to live like this! 

Julian uses his TK to keep her energy contained as he holds her and asks what’s going on; why is she so worried about this all of a sudden?

Noriko, trying to get a hold of herself, doesn’t want to admit that Sofia said some totally harmless stuff that she took too seriously, so she dances around that part. Julian knows how her powers changed her life. How they made her lose everything, how they put her on the street for years, how she changed everything about herself, and gave up on all her old goals. 

NORIKO, embarrassed: “And, you also know that one of those goals was to be with a guy like you.” 

And now that she is dating him, well, she wants him to be happy. She doesn’t want herself to be an eyesore, she doesn’t want to make him uncomfortable, she doesn’t want to make him upset because of her lack of interest in things, she just– 

Julian cuts her off. 

JULIAN: “Ashida, you are being ridiculous.” 

Whatever she was taught about being a “good girlfriend” or other crap, he doesn’t care. He just likes hanging out and being with her. Yeah, some of the stuff she mentioned can be annoying, but when haven’t these two annoyed each other? 

Nori giggles. She asks if it’s really all okay. If he really thinks the gauntlets don’t make her ugly. 

JULIAN: “Of course not. You’re beautiful.” 

Julian kisses her, as Noriko’s heart explodes because of his impossibly bad word choice. 

NORI: “Hey, you know, maybe going out tonight, something casual, could be fun. Find us something?” 

JULIAN, ignorantly pleased about how he’s handled this situation: “On it.” 

As Julian flies off, Noriko screams into her hands. 

“I’d be screaming if I was dating that lughead too.” 

Nori picks her head up out of her hands and sneers at the person who just spoke: Quentin, flanked by Glob, Ernst, and Martha. As Nori wipes the remaining tears from her eyes, she asks Quentin what he wants. 

QUENTIN: “Nothing, Just hanging out. But I couldn’t help but overhear what’s going on. Quite the tragic situation you’ve found yourself in. I suppose not all of us can have mastery over our powers.” 

Glob snickers with Quentin. 

NORI: “So are you just done trying to be our friend now?” 

QUENTIN: “On the contrary, I come AS a friend. One with the possible answer to your problems.” 

From his shorts pocket, Quentin pulls out a bottle of pills. Nori tells him to stuff it, she’s tried drugs before, and she only survived because of Dani. Quentin tells her this is nothing like those street drugs she poisoned herself with. This is Kick. Real medication, straight from the office of Dr. Garrison. It clears the mind, refocuses you, and grants you strength you didn’t know you had; and it’s particularly potent with Mutants. 

QUENTIN: “A few pills could be all that stand between you and getting those eye-sores off. You’ve seen what it’s done for me. You could be the girl you always wanted to be.” 

As Surge contemplates her choice, Glob and Ernst echo Quentin’s thoughts about the gauntlets being ugly. Surge stares back at them, having made her decision. 

Elsewhere, Scott walks Pitor to a room he can stay in. Pitor comments on how lovely the new school is; he’ll always miss the old one though. Scott, awkwardly, is glad he likes it. But listen, there’s something they need to talk about. About him and Kitty. 

PITOR, grinning: “Has she been speaking of me?” 

SCOTT: “Well, no. It’s just, I want to make sure…things are messy and–” “Pitor cuts Scott off by laughing. He gets what he’s saying. “You do?”

PITOR: “Da. Katya has someone new, right?” 

SCOTT: “Ummmm.” 

Pitor tells him not to worry about it. He’s just glad she’s not dating that “Pete Wisdom” guy anymore. Him and Kitty broke up years ago for a reason. If she’s happy, that’s all that matters to him. And he can wait for her to tell him herself who the lucky man is. 

Scott is surprised, but pleased. Pete’s done a lot of growing up, clearly. A lot of growing in general. He pats Pitor on the arm, and tells him to get settled. Them and Kitty can go look for Magik afterward. 

Scott leaves Pitor to move into his room, Pitor struggling a little to fit through the small doorframe. His eye is immediately caught by a gorgeous sapphire on the nightstand. There’s a twinkle in his eye as he approaches it. With the gem, there’s a note that reads: “Welcome Back, Sexy.” 

PITOR, picking up the jewel and pressing it against his heart: “Oh, Katya. You shouldn’t have.” 

We immediately cut to the person who actually did leave the gem, as Sofia, with Laura, waves goodbye to Cessily and Roxy, who are driving back to the school before heading out again at night. 

Laura, quietly but excitedly, asks what’s next. Sofia tells her she got them both tickets to one of her favorite ballets, Giselle, from one of the top companies in the country. 

LAURA: “While I was with Logan again, I met an assassin who had studied ballet as part of her training. I got jealous.” 

SOFIA: “Because if you had that training, you’d be able to better dance with me?” Laura nods. “Do not feel jealous at all. If you wish to learn, I can teach you! Just like the TikTok dance.” 

Laura snort laughs, remembering that. 

SOFIA, smirking: “This other assassin…did you fight her?” 

LAURA: “I wasn’t going to. Then she turned out to be one of Cannonball’s friends. I kicked her ass. Logan got mad.” 

Sofia kisses Laura on the cheek. That’s her girl. 

“Um…excuse me.” 

Sofia and Laura, standing by the entrance to the restaurant they’re in, notice a shy, blonde girl covered in more layers than the other girls, who are also dressed for Winter, asking the hostess about her takeout order. Last name: Collins. The Hostess tells her she’ll be right with her. 

The blonde fidgets in place, with Laura commenting that she probably used to look like that, as she takes Sofia’s hand to walk her out. Before they leave, however…

SOFIA: “Laura?” 

Laura breaks away from Sofia and nearly gives the blonde a heart attack as she claps her hands around hers. 

LAURA: “I don’t know who you are, but I feel like we were destined to meet.” 

LAURIE: “Nononononono.” 

Laurie tells her to please let go. Laura of course does, whatever she wants. Laurie runs off crying. Sofia asks Laura what is wrong with her, as Laura’s head aches. She doesn’t know. The hostess returns with the food, but there’s no sign of Laurie. 

We cut to Illyana, actually dressed like a normal young woman for once, skipping stones in the Hudson. All around her, happy couples are doing the same. This pisses her off, as she throws another stone, but instead of bouncing it normally, she teleports it down the war through a series of stepping discs. 

ILLYANA: “Stupid Pitor. Stupid Kitty.” She looks down at her own reflection. “Stupid human with stupid emotions.” 

Illyana tugs at her hair, grunting. Things were so much easier when she was Darkchylde. No real love or compassion or worry, just doing whatever she felt, whenever she felt. Now, here she is, pathetically moping and wallowing in her own sorrow. 

ILLYANA: “Not that that isn’t what I deserve.” 

“Yana!” 

Yana groans as Kitty comes running up to her. Yana asks how she found her, with Kitty reminding her that, duh, that used to come here to hang out and skip stones all the time…err, all the time when someone wasn’t trying to kill them. 

YANA: “Oh. Right. I forgot.” 

Kitty tells her that she and Pitor have been looking over all the places they used to go around here. She figured if she wasn’t just hanging out in Limbo, she’d probably be at one of them. 

ILLYANA: “Great deductive reasoning, Nancy Drew.” Magik opens a stepping disc under herself. “Bye.” 

Kitty pulls Yana off the disc before she can teleport away. Talk to her! What’s wrong? She thought she’d be happy to see Pitor! 

YANA: “Why?! Why would I be happy to see him?!” 

KITTY: “Because he’s your brother and the nicest guy in the world and you love him?” 

YANA: “He’s a jerk who wants to take you from me!” 

Kitty is baffled by that statement. Both because, “Seriously, that’s what this is about?”. Pitor doesn’t want her back! They’ve moved on. Sor-ry if she’s need a little while to process her kissing her out of the blue, but she was just being friendly with him. 

MAGIK: “So you do want to date?” 

KITTY: “I don’t know!” 

Magik pouts, crossing her arms. Kitty tells her she’s being ridiculous. And yes, she can tell her that to her face now that Magik can’t just threaten to chuck the planet into the sun. There’s gotta be something else going on here, right? 

Before Magik can answer, the two X-Men notice an explosion elsewhere in the city. Putting this to the side for the moment, the two exchange nods, Magik draws her anti-soulsword, uses a spell to change them both into their costumes, and teleports them both away. 

In the school’s common area, Julian, Cessily, Brian, and Sooraya are hanging out. While Julian is frustratedly trying to teach Soo how to play a video game for the first time, he’s also telekinetically braiding Cessily’s hair for her date tonight. 

CESSILY: “This is the coolest thing you’ve ever done for me…why do you know how to do this?” 

JULIAN: “I think Ms. Frost was just upset one day that Mr. Summers couldn’t help with her hair, so she made me learn.” 

SOORAYA: “You aren’t bad.” 

JULIAN: “Right? Almost makes me wish Nori had long hair.” 

We cut momentarily to the hallways, where someone with long, jetblack hair is walking. 

Brian, who’s on the floor and leaning against the couch, is texting. He receives a message from Quentin. Specifically, letting him know that he’s about to see something hilarious. Brian snickers. 

Cessily asks Sooraya how her date went. 

SOORAYA: “Aamir was a sweet and very religious man, but a little too intense. From the jokes you all make about New Jersey, maybe coming from there is why. His little sister was sweet though. She loves the X-Men.” 

BRIAN, sarcastically: “Yay, one Flatscan not related to any of us likes us.” 

Out in the hallway, Rubbermaid, Loa, and Preview’s jaws drop as they see someone walking in high heels, with polished nails. 

Soo asks Cessily what she and Roxy are doing that night. Cess, anxiously, says she doesn’t know but she’ll sure it’ll be something big and glamorous and amazing. 

JULIAN: “You don’t sound too happy about that.” 

Cessily bristles at that. Of course she is! Like, yes, the way Roxy is constantly buying her expensive gifts, giving her a career, and welcoming her into her family is…a lot, but it’s all just cause she loves her. 

BRIAN: “If she’s making you uncomfortable, just tell her.” 

CESSILY: “I am NOT going to be that ungrateful. Besides, it’s not like I never do anything for…Noriko?” 

Cessily and Sooraya’s faces contort in confusion, as Brian covers his laughter, and Julian looks extremely horny. 

We see what they’re looking at: Noriko, with long black hair, a cutsey dress, heels, a full face of makeup, and no gauntlets. 

Nori cheerfully pumps her shoulders and smiles wide. 

NORIKO: “Hi guys!” 

She superspeeds onto the stunned Julian’s lap,kissing him on the cheek. 

NORI: “Happy Valentine’s Day.” 

We cut to a middle-class apartment, where a blonde woman with glasses is reading a book. She’s interrupted as Laurie bursts into the apartment, crying. Her mother, Gail, immediately rushes over to comfort her. 

Laurie cries on her mother’s shoulder, saying that it happened again. She tried using the techniques she showed her, she was bundled up, she thought she only went inside when the food would be ready, but it wasn’t, and she did something awful. 

Gail holds her and tells her baby it’s okay, everything’s okay. Tell her exactly what happened. Did anyone get hurt? Did anyone touch her? 

Laurie shakes her head no. There were just these two girls, both way too pretty to ever acknowledge she exists, normally, but her pheremones got loose, and they took hold of one of them. She clapped her hands around hers, and started hitting on her. She was able to get away, but just…

LAURIE: “When will this end?” 

Gail promises her she did nothing wrong. If she was using everything they’ve practiced, then that’s good, and even if the tricks didn’t work, Laurie stopped things before anything happened. She’s proud of her. 

GAIL, holding her daughter: “Scientists and doctors around the world are working toward finding a cure. I promise this won’t be your life forever.” She pauses and smiles. “And for now, we can get delivery for our No-Men Valentines.” 

LAURIE, giggling: “Chinese?” 

GAIL: “Works for me.” 

There’s a knock on the door. Gail goes to see who it is, Laurie staying behind her. Gail opens the door, revealing Sofia and Laura. 

SOFIA: “Hello, ma’am. I know we are unexpected, but may we come in?” 

While Gail is just confused, Laurie faints. 

Kitty and Magik teleport to the general area where the explosion took place. Buildings have been wrecked, cars have been turned over and set aflame, and everyone is terrified. Kitty tells Magik that she’s going to get to, and save, every person trapped either in a collapsed builder or burning car, and she needs her to find who did this and take them down. 

YANA: “Of course you don’t even want to work with me. What? Scared the soulless monster will stab you in the back?” 

KITTY: “Please stop this. If I didn’t trust you, I wouldn’t be asking you to handle the bad guy. Please.” 

MAGIK, sneering: “Fine. Go.” 

Kitty moves to start rescuing people, while Illyana casts a spell to find killers. Only ones present are herself and one other. She teleports to where the villain should be, landing in a gift shop. 

MAGIK: “Alright, let’s get this over with.” 

Magik is stunned as, within the small, cramped store, she sees a hulking, metal monster standing over a dead cashier, looking into a snowglobe. 

YANA: “Colossus?” 

Pitor, in his Juggerlossus form from the comics, but with a sapphire in his forehead, grins sadistically at Magik as he crushes the snowglobe. 

PITOR, in a gravelly voice: “Snowflake.” 

Magik giggles. Is he a bad guy now? Does that mean she’s the good guy? 

MAGIK: “Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to be a noble hero and kill you! Such a shame.” 

Magik attacks Pitor with a fire spell, but he just tanks it, grabs her, and throws her through multiple buildings. She lands on the floor of a restaurant, dirtied and bloodied. 

MAGIK: “This…may be a problem.” 

Back in the school’s common area, Julian and his crew are shocked by Noriko’s makeover. 

JULIAN: “What happened? Where are your gauntlets?” 

SOORAYA: “What are you wearing?” 

CESSILY: “Is someone threatening you?” 

NORI, cheerfully playing with Julian’s hair: “Of course not, sillies!” 

BRIAN: “Sillies? You been spending too much time with Megan?” 

NORI: “Ha ha! That’s funny, Bri.” 

Brian just blinks in disbelief at what’s happening. 

Julian asks her, seriously, what happened. Did Danger figure something out? Nori tells the truth and tells him nope, before lying by saying the procedure had a delayed effect…or something. Hee hee. 

NORI: “I’m finally free.” 

She nuzzles her head against his chest. Julian nervously laughs and holds her, kinda into this. Nori then tells Julian not to worry about making plans for them tonight, as she already got them a reservation at a fancy restaurant (doneso while the cosmetology club, made up of kids with powers suited to it, worked on her). 

Julian points out that she hates stuck-up, fancy restaurants, and that neither of them can afford the place. 

NORI: “Don’t worry, babe. The Cuckoos said they’d cover it! They were actually really nice when I asked. They must like the real me as much as I do!” 

CESSILY AND SOORAYA: “The real you?” 

Nori excitedly tells them that this is what she was telling them about last year. This is who she is! Nori superspeeds and pulls the other girls into a hug. She has wasted so many of her teen years stuck being angry and gross, and she is so excited to spend girltime with them! 

While Nori smiles like the sun, Cessily and Soo turn to each other, terrified and uncomfortable. 

Nori then speeds back over to Julian and gives him another big kiss and hug. 

NORI: “Isn’t this amazing, Julian? I can finally be the beautiful girlfriend you deserve.” 

JULIAN, quickly becoming as uncomfortable as the others as he holds her: “Y--yeah.” 

In Gail and Laurie’s apartment, Laurie is passed out on the couch, while Sofia and Laura have been given tea by Gail, as they explain who they are, and what happened at the restaurant. 

SOFIA: “Are we correct in our assumption that your daughter is a Mutant?” 

Gail, anxiously, confirms this, but tells them outright she will not be attending their school, and she would appreciate it if they didn’t spread this information around. Laura questions why, with Gail explaining how Laurie’s powers work: she can release pheremones, of any kind, from her body. With them, she can make anyone feel or think or anyway she wants, on a biological level.

Laura, hearing this, flashes back to her fight with Akihiro. She expresses how she knew she’d felt what Laurie did to her sometime before. In both cases, it was completely overwhelming. Like she didn’t even exist in her own mind or body.

Gail isn’t surprised she’s fought a villain with this power; most people wouldn’t use it for good. That’s why it’s important that Laurie stays here with her. She struggles with controlling her powers, as they’ve seen, and they work on skills together to help work toward eventual total control. 

GAIL: “I won’t let my only daughter grow up to be a monster. Absolutely not. Nor will I put everyone at your school at risk.”

Sofia understands. And she truly respects what Gail is doing. It takes true strength. 

SOFIA: “My own mother was the strongest woman I ever knew. I think she would have liked you.”

GAIL: “Well, she raised an X-Man, so she must have done a pretty good job. I…admit Laurie can be a handful. But I know no one could handle her better.” 

As Gail gets up to grab some sugar, Sofia pointedly asks another question: Where’s Mr. Collins? 

Gail freezes up for a second, before explaining that he passed away many years ago. Laurie never even met him. He wasn’t a good man. 

Sofia plays along and accepts this. If that’s everything, then they will respect her choice. But she does hand her a card, telling her that if she or Laurie ever need anything, the X-Men will be there for them. Gail thanks her. 

Gail tells the girls they can finish their tea before they go, but Sofia would actually like to stay a little longer. She and Laura would just like to talk to Laurie as well, and make sure she knows there are no hard feelings. 

SOFIA, sickeningly sweetly: “That will not be a problem, will it?” 

GAIL, slightly uncomfortable: “No. No, that should be fine.” 

SOFIA: “Splendid.” 

Laura finally drinks some of her tea and spits it out. 

LAURA: “Got any coffee?” 

Juggerlossus stomps over to Magik, towering over her. 

PITOR: “I have been looking for you.” 

Magik picks herself up and consumes her eyes in purple flames, looking inside Pitor’s soul. She can see the sapphire inside him and its presence around him. 

MAGIK: “I’m as much the girl you want as you are my jerk of a brother. Didn’t know gems of Cyttorak came in blue.” 

Juggerlossus isn’t interested in talking, going on the attack. Magik is only barely able to protect herself from his punches using her anti-soulsword. She teleports above him to try taking off his head, but she can only chip his neck. Pitor grabs her and smashes her into the ground, forming a crater and making her scream. 

Nearby, as Kitty is pulling civilians out of a building that’s been reduced to rubble, she worries as she hears Magik scream. Kitty goes for her com and calls Cyclops. 

KITTY: “Cyclops! Cyclops, are you there?!” 

We cut to the Jean Grey School, where we see Scott’s already been knocked out inside the school. 

KITTY: “Dammit.” 

With him not picking up, she instead calls Emma and Magneto. She knows they’re busy looking into what happened to Pixie, but uh, they kinda have a situation over here! 

The headmasters question what’s going on with Kitty giving a brief rundown. She doesn’t know who’s responsible, but she’s handling search and rescue, and it sounds like Magik can’t handle them alone. 

Magneto tells her they’ll be right to her location, with Emma checking to see who they’re up against by reading Magik’s mind. 

EMMA: “You aren’t going to like this, Katherine.” 

Kitty’s eyes flash. 

KITTY: “What the Hell?” 

EMMA: “The Mutant sibling urge to kill one another. I understand it well.” 

Magneto clenches his pained face. 

Kitty tells her to not joke. Pitor wouldn’t have chosen to become the dang Juggernaut for no reason. She needs them here NOW so they can figure out what’s going on and help them both. 

“Don’t forget about me.”

KITTY, surprised: “Warpath? You sure you want in on this?” 

JAMES, already being flown through the sky by Magneto and Emma: “Juggernaut and Colossus are one-trick ponies; they hit hard. So do I.” 

Magik screams again. 

KITTY: “Okay. Just hurry.” 

In Julian’s room, while he gets changed into something nicer, Noriko is excitedly talking about how she’s gonna see if any other girls here like volleyball, get her grades up just a little, and plan ideas for how the gang can do Spring Break “right” this year. 

NORIKO: “Maybe later tonight we could go dancing!” 

Nori’s face falls as she notices Julian looking like he isn’t paying attention. 

NORIKO: “What’s wrong? Am I annoying you?” 

Julian takes a breath. 

JULIAN: “No. That’s the problem.” 

Nori is so confused. How is that a problem? Julian exasperatedly tells her that he likes her annoying him! Her being annoying is what makes her Noriko. 

JULIAN: “Something is wrong that you won’t tell me.” 

Nori shakes her head, no, and tells him he’s wrong. All that anger and snark was just a shield.

NORIKO: “I have nothing to be angry about anymore, nothing holding me back. No more than you do, I mean. Why do you want me to still be miserable?” 

JULIAN: “I want you to be yourself.”

NORIKO: “This IS “myself”. Do you just see me as a jerk who’s fun to fight with?” 

JULIAN: “Of course not, but–”

NORI: “But what? You’re going to tell me that’s what you want in a girlfriend?”

JULIAN: “This isn’t about me.” 

NORI: “You’re making this about you! Just be happy for me!” 

JULIAN: “I am happy for you.” 

NORIKO: “Then act like it!” 

Nori, getting hysterical, falls against Julian, pressing her head against his chest.

NORIKO: “Do you love me?” 

Julian telekinetically stands her up and holds her, unsure of what to say. 

JULIAN: “I…” 

NORI; “You had no problem telling Sofia.” 

Julian cringes, putting together what this is about. 

Nori gasps. Clearly and suddenly unwell, she tells him she can’t do this right now. She’ll still be ready to go out later if he has an answer. Maybe. 

Nori superspeeds off, collapsing against a wall as a surge of electricity uncontrollably escapes her body, with her struggling to keep it in, paining her to do so. 

NORI, panicking: “What the Hell?”

“Enjoy your trial run?” 

Quentin floats up to her, smug as anything. Nori, stuttering and talking super fast at the same time, asks what he did to her. 

QUENTIN: “Nothing! I just gave you less than a daily dosage earlier. Now that you’ve seen how it works, I was hoping I could get something in return for a month’s supply.” 

NORI: “What?” 

QUENTIN: “Nothing too much. Just the entrance code to Cerebro. I want to try it out, and Ms. Frost has locked the password too well in every X-Man’s mind for me to pry it out.”

Nori, slipping back into her old self, tells him to go to Hell. She isn’t gonna be used like that. 

QUENTIN: “I just wanted to trade! It’s nothing nefarious. But if you’re happy digging your ugly old gauntlets out of the trash and staying the Surge we all know and tolerate, that’s up to you.” 

Quentin starts to float away, until Nori calls out to him to wait. Just as he knew she would. 

NORI, pained and desperate: “You have a deal.” 

Magik, battered and beaten, continues to try and fight Juggerlossus, throwing various spells at him, but none of them working. 

YANA: “You are really pissing me off!” 

EMMA, telepathically: “Magik, Magneto, Warpath, I and will arrive at your destination in 20 seconds. Perhaps you should teleport Colossus away to an unpopulated area and then–” 

YANA: “Don’t tell me what to do!” 

Juggerlossus grabs Magik, crushing her in a bear hug. Magik is helpless as she drops her sword and screams. Before she can be killed, however, Illyana falls to the ground, phasing tight through Pitor. Pitor, confused, turns to find Kitty touching him. 

KITTY: “Sorry about this.” 

Juggerlossus is flung up into the sky, where he’s met by Magneto, Emma, and Warpath, Magneto actually having to exert himself to maintain his hold, as Pitor tries to break free. Emma tells Pitor to stay put as Auntie Emma takes a closer look inside his head. 

Pitor screams, trying to resist, but he can’t hold Emma back. 

Inside his mindscape, which takes on the form of an abstract painting of a farm, Emma in astral form sneers at another astral figure. 

EMMA: “Exodus.” 

Exodus turns to face Emma, smirking and leaning on a blue egg that Pitor is trapped inside. 

EXODUS, mockingly: “A pleasure to finally meet you, my fellow Omega.” 

In the real world, Kitty huddles over Magik, asking if she’s okay. 

YANA: “Da.” 

KITTY: “Good.” Kitty slaps her across the face. “Now tell me what your dang problem is!” 

Yana cringes, too weak to keep fighting. 

Back at the school, with Quentin confirming telepathically that the coast is clear, he and Noriko approach the entrance to Cerebro. Noriko hesitates, unsure if she should be doing this, but Quentin shakes the bottle of Kick in her face to taunt her. 

NORI, sighing: “What do you want with Cerebro, anyway?” 

QUENTIN: “LIke I said, I just want to try it out. Don’t blame me, blame Ms. Frost’s obvious favoritism.” 

Nori bites her tongue, and opens the doors for him, shutting them behind her once they’re both in. 

QUENTIN, in awe of the machine as he approaches the helmet in the center: “You’re making the right choice, Surge. Kick helps make you whoever you want to most be. If this is what you want, then it’s worth doing anything for.” He sits down and puts on the helmet. “I couldn’t imagine going back to being that dweeb.” 

Quentin cracks his fingers and says it’s time to get to work. As he powers on Cerebro, he’s initially overwhelmed, but quickly gets the hang of it. 

QUENTIN, adjusting his glasses: “Piece of cake.” 

Quentin shuts his eyes and starts doing something, but Nori can’t tell what. Noriko is antsy and wants this done as quickly as possible before they get caught. Quentin promises he’ll be done in no time; he’s just checking out a few things. 

Dramatic music swells as Quentin does whatever it is he’s doing, and Surge looks back and forth between him and the door.

It’s all fine though, as Quentin takes the helmet off before anyone comes in. 

QUENTIN: “All done. See? Nothing to worry about.” Nori still appears distraught. “Come on. Cheer up, Surge. Girls like you should always be smiling.” 

Quentin floats over to the exit, but before Surge even meets him there to punch in the code, the doors open and Quentin is sent flying back by a burst of green energy. 

NORI: “Oh no.” 

Hellion enters Cerebro, pissed. 

JULIAN: “What do you think you’re doing here?” 

Back in Gail’s apartment, Sofia and Laura sit on the couch while they wait for Laurie to wake up. Laura feels bad for Laurie; without control, her power is more of a curse than anything. Danger could probably design a suit for her to keep her pheremones contained but…

SOFIA: “But she is already frightened and insecure. It would only make things worse.” 

Sofia then comments that they know it’s possible to control this type of power. The Horseman Laura fought had total control, right? Laura reluctantly sighs yes. 

SOFIA, pretending to be concerned: “You haven’t told me much about what happened out there.” 

LAURA: “Nothing too say. We fought. I lost. He let me live. Said his master had plans for me.” 

SOFIA: “Why would Lady Akabba care about you at all?” 

LAURA: “I don’t know. But she didn’t kill me, Julian, and Noriko when she had the chance either.” 

SOFIA, holding Laura’s hand: “Forgive me, but you know I cannot help hearing things through the wind. Such as your debriefing with Cyclops. Death is your brother, right?” 

LAURA, shaking her head: “I don’t care what he is. This isn’t about him.” 

SOFIA: “No. It is about you. Why did you run away from the school? And why did you come back?” 

Laura gives the cliffnotes of what happened with Kimura and Akihiro. 

SOFIA: “You came back just for me?” Laura blushes as Sofia kisses her cheek. “No one as loving as you could ever just be a weapon.” 

LAURA, weakly: “Thank you.” 

Sofia thinks to herself. 

LAURA: “What?” 

SOFIA: “I am trying to put the pieces together.” 

Sofia goes over the odd sequence of events. She woke up and escaped Apocalypse’s lair just after Laura ran off, and then Death was sent to push her back, just after she arrived at the school. Laura, eyes widened, adds that Akihiro had been at the Facility, working with Kimura. 

LAURA: “We’re being played with.” 

Before Sofia can respond, Gail enters. Laurie’s awake. 

In Cerebro, Julian demands to know what Quentin is doing with Nori and Cerebro. As Quentin picks himself up, Noriko races over to Julian, holding his arm and telling him everything is fine; Quentin just asked to try Cerebro and she didn’t see the harm, that’s all. 

Julian, examining the scene, takes note of the pill bottle that was knocked out of Quentin’s shorts when he was knocked down, and telekinetically pulls it over to himself. 

JULIAN: “Kick?”

Julian is hit by a bust of purple energy and knocked back against the wall, as Quentin pulls the bottle back over to him. 

QUENTIN: “That belongs to me.” 

Julian’s eyes widen with rage. He glares at Noriko. Danger didn’t help at all, did she? He glares back at Quentin. 

JULIAN, livid: “You put her back on pills!” 

QUENTIN: “I didn’t do anything. She wanted this. Besides, like I told her, these are nothing like–”

JULIAN: “Shut it! Truth is, I don’t really care what you were doing with Cerebro. But you breaking the rules is gonna be a real good excuse for what happens next.” 

NORI: “Julian, no, please don’t fight.” 

JULIAN, just confused and distraught looking at her: “Who are you?” 

Both are caught off guard as an intense purple aura surrounds Quentin. 

QUENTIN: “Don’t worry, Surge. This won’t be much of a fight.” He laughs at how stunned they are. “What? Did you forget where I finished last year in the rankings? And you both just make the “aura” thing look so cool, I had to try it.” 

Julian and a cocky Quentin stare each other down, as Nori fears what’s about to happen. 

Julian rushes Quentin, only to fall in agony at Quentin’s feet. 

QUENTIN: “Telepathy, tough guy. Like I said. This isn’t a fight.” 

Quentin punts Julian against the ceiling, and proceeds to telekinetically swing him against each of the walls, repeatedly. 

QUENTIN: “I’ve said a lot of bad things about women. A lot of it I regret. But you, Julian Keller, are something so much worse than any “cool girl”.” He pulls Julian in front of him. “A man born with everything, but who acts like he has it so hard.” Quentin resumes slamming Julian into the walls, even faster, as Noriko cries out for him to please stop. “Good looks! A cool attitude! Real parents! It doesn’t matter that I’m richer and ten times the Mutant you are; you’re the X-Man, and one who’s slept with all the hottest girls in school!” 

Quentin slams Julian down in front of him once more. Julian’s body is covered in bruises. 

QUENTIN: “Things are going to change soon. And then, you’ll be nothing, and everyone will respect me!” 

Julian pants. 

JULIAN: “Listen…you unhinged virgin loser…I am a lot of the things you just said.” Quentin groans and stumbles back as Julian performs the red triangle. “I’m also Ms. Frost’s apprentice.” 

Julian is able to go on the offensive, blasting Quentin away, before rushing him. Quentin tries to fight back, but in close-quarters-combat, Julian has him completely outclassed, and is able to whale on him. 

JULIAN: “Whatever you were planning, give it up! There is enough I have to worry about right now as is without you throwing a tantrum because your fake parents don’t love you! Join the damn club!” 

Quentin increases his shielding around himself at the moment of impact of Julian’s next punch, momentarily stunning him, allowing Quentin to form a psychic blade around his hand and slash Julian across the chest. 

As all of this goes on, Nori continues to shout at the boys to please stop, electricity crackling around her. 

QUENTIN: “This isn’t about me! It’s about all of us! I’m just the only one smart enough to see what needs to be done.” He smirks. “Well. Besides Tag.” 

Julian screams, charging up with energy. Quentin does much the same. Both are positively throbbing with energy. Nori continues to shout at them to stop before they destroy everything and kill everyone. The electricity around her intensifies. 

As Julian and Quentin prepare to unleash their respective power, auras flaring up in huge spires, Noriko’s pleas are silenced, as she’s overtaken by electricity, and passes out. 

Immediately, both boys power down. 

JULIAN AND QUENTIN: “Noriko!” 

Both boys fly down to where Nori is, Julian checking her pulse. He breathes a sigh of relief that she’s still breathing. 

JULIAN, angrier than ever, but also now afraid: “What did you give her?!” 

QUENTIN, genuine in his concern: “I…I don’t know. Hellion, I had no idea this could happen to her, you have to believe–” 

JULIAN: “GET OUT!” 

Quentin lingers for a moment out of guilt, before sneering, adjusting his glasses once more, and leaving. 

Julian holds Nori in his arms. 

JULIAN, quietly: “You’re gonna be okay. You’re gonna be okay.” 

In Colossus’ mindscape, Emma mocks Exodus for being a coward; for all his power, he’s still brainwashing someone else to fight for him. 

EXODUS: “Were it up to me, I’d simply fly up to your school and blow you all to bits. Tragically, Lady Akabba has forbidden that. She wants you, Cyclops, and Magneto for herself. Such an annoying little Daddy’s Girl.” 

EMMA: “Sounds like someone’s been whipped.” 

BENNETT: “Only for my sins.” 

Exodus attacks Emma, with the two entering a telepathic struggle. Bennett points out that he knows in this area, Emma has him beat, but he doesn’t need to win; he just needs to buy enough time for his beast to do its job.

In the real world, Juggerlossus roars as Magneto strains himself holding him in place; this isn’t the real Gem of Cyttorak they’re facing, or they’d already be dead, but it’s far closer to it than they’d like. 

Juggerlossus stops struggling. Magneto and Warpath are confused. Pitor smirks, as he exits his metal form, grabs Magneto and Warpath’s necks, and, smashes them both down into the pavement below. The impact shakes the whole city. 

Juggerlossus cackles and roars triumphantly. While Magneto struggles to stand, Warpath gets up. 

WARPATH: “Okay, Jimmy.” Warpath draws his knives. “Let’s see if you’ve still got it.” 

Nearby, Kitty once again demands Magik talk to her. Magik relents and explains. Even when they were kids, she was still evil. She didn’t want to be, she tried to act like she wasn’t, but she was still a demon sorceress above all else. Pitor never accepted that. Even when he was comforting her at her lowest, he couldn’t get it out of his head that she was still the innocent little girl who’d been kidnapped by Belasco. And every time he’d make that clear, or call her his “snowflake” she’d feel disgusted with herself. 

But she couldn’t just push him away and tell him to stop. She still loved him and, well, so did Kitty. They were inseparable. And that sucked because, unlike Pitor, Kitty always did see her for her. 

YANA: “I thought I was finally free of him. I thought we both were.” 

But now Colossus is back. And if they’re able to save him, things are just going to go back to the way they were and– 

Kitty shuts Magik up by kissing her. 

KITTY: “We WILL save him. But nothing will be like it was.” 

Magik is stunned. Pleased, but stunned. Kitty giggles. Yana has always been so quick to assume the worst when it comes to herself. But she’s also always tried to be her best self. That’s part of why she loves her. 

KITTY: “I’m sorry I’ve been weird. This has just been a lot. But I do want this. I promise. And I promise to help you be the best “you” you can be.” 

Magik processes all of this and grins, planting a much sloppier kiss on Kitty. 

KITTY, pulling back, laughing: “Oh my god! Did you use the forked tongue?!” 

YANA: “Maybe.” She stands both of them up. “Let’s finish this fast. We can still get a Valentine’s Day dinner.” 

KITTY: “That sounds real good.” 

Magik teleports them both away. 

Back at the fight, Warpath puts up an impressive performance against Juggerlossus. He still clearly losing, but he’s at least able to hold him back from continuing his rampage. On the Astral Plane, Emma continues her duel with Exodus. 

Just then, Kitty and Magik arrive on the scene, teleporting in from underneath Juggerlossus, with Kitty dragging Pitor halfway through the street. As she does this, Magik chants. 

Warpath asks what she’s doing. Kitty explains that the Gem of Cyttorak was created by a demon god. Magik knows a thing or two about how to fight those. And so if this thing is close enough to the genuine article, it should work. 

Juggerlossus screams as he’s overwhelmed in the real world by Magik’s spell, and Exodus is overpowered by Emma in the astral plane. 

EXODUS: “No, no, no.” 

Pitor’s astral self breaks free of his shell, as the gem is destroyed, and he crushes the head of Exodus’ astral self. 

COLOSSUS, reverting to normal and passing out: “Thank you…all. I’m sorry.”

Emma returns to her body and helps up Erik and James, as Kitty hugs Pitor. Yana thinks about doing so, but she still can’t. She settles for just holding Kitty’s hand. 

In Laurie’s bedroom, she whimpers out an apology to Sofia and Laura, who make clear they aren’t mad and that she did nothing wrong. 

SOFIA: “We completely understand your situation. My best friend cannot control her powers either. One of our teachers had to design special gloves for her.” 

Laurie’s eyes light up at that. They can do that???

Laura tells her she’s under no obligation to stay at the school with them, but whether she’d like to enroll or not, they’d be happy to call up Beast to meet with her. 

Excitement and, more importantly, hope spread across Laurie’s face. That sounds amazing. 

LAURIE: “You’re both…so cool.” 

SOFIA: “It wasn’t long ago I was a lot like you.” Sofia runs her hand through Laurie’s hair. “We could teach you to be like us.” 

Laurie doesn’t think she ever could be, but the idea of trying sounds amazing. Not until she’s got her own special gloves or something though. She doesn’t want to risk hurting anyone. 

SOFIA, smirking: “Pheremones are your gift.” Sofia blows a gentle wind in Laurie’s face, ticking her nose with her hair. “Control of the wind is mine. So long as you stay close to me, I can keep you safe.” 

Laurie’s face lights up and she hugs Sofia, thanking her. This is so cool. She just needs to talk to her mom first before she makes a decision. 

SOFIA, hugging Laurie: “Of course. You must respect your parents.” 

Shortly after, Sofia and Laura exit Laurie’s room. Sofia receives a telepathic message. 

EXODUS: “Your plan failed, War. Just as I told you it would. Magik and Kitty Pryde survived.” 

SOFIA, forcing an outward smile: “Disappointing. Moving on with my contingency.” 

SOFIA, outloud: “I’m so glad she wants to come to the school. It may blow up sometimes, but it’s still the best choice any of us can make.” 

LAURA: “Best choice I ever made.” Laura holds Sofia’s hand as they exit the apartment. “Sorry we missed the ballet.” 

SOFIA: “Do not worry. This was more important.” She makes a more serious face. “There is something else I still want to do though.” 

Sofia explains that the X-Men haven’t been able to have any luck tracking down the Horsemen. All the while the Horsemen toy with the two of them, launch attacks on their friends, and put Scarlet Witch in a coma. They need to do something - and they can. 

For whatever reason, the Horsemen want her. She could find a way to contact them, say she’s ready to ready to join them, and that Laura wants to come to to learn more about her brother. Sofia could learn about her missing six months, while Laura could work on trying to get her brother off this path, and then they could supply the location to the X-Men. 

Laura isn’t sure. They need to run this by Cyclops. Sofia tells her that’s pointless; of course he’ll shoot that down. He probably doesn’t even fully trust her still, and she can’t even blame him. 

SOFIA: “But you trust me. Right?” 

The elevator doors open. 

LAURA: “More than anyone.” 

The two kiss as they step into the elevator, and the doors close. 

Kitty, Magik, Emma, Erik, and James arrive back at the school, the two men carrying the barely conscious Pitor. Magneto congratulates Warpath on the clear progress he’s made. James dismissively tells him he’s been training, still not a fan of him. 

Magik eagerly asks Kitty what they should do once they’ve gotten Pitor to the medical center. Before Kitty can answer, the group is approached by a somber-looking Danielle. Emma asks what’s wrong; did something happen to Megan? 

DANI: “No. She’s acting a little stranger than usual, but she seems to be doing better.” 

KITTY: “Then what’s up?” 

DANI, pained: “It’s about Surge.” 

In the medical bay, Noriko lies awake in bed, glaring at the ceiling, and wearing new gauntlets that resemble Danger’s body. 

“Hey kid.” 

Noriko cringes as Kitty enters. 

NORIKO: “I know I messed up. No need to lay into me.” 

KITTY, sitting down next to her: “I think I’ll be the judge of that. Talk to me.” 

Nori sighs. She was stupid, like usual, and insecure. She wanted to be more like her old self for Julian, because she used to be more like Sofia, and she thought that was what Julian wanted. 

NORI: “LIke I said. Stupid.” 

KITTY, shaking her head: “I don’t think that sounds stupid. That sounds like you’re a teenage girl trying to please your first boyfriend. Happens to all of us.” 

NORI, not buying that: “Oh yeah. What stunt did you pull with Colossus then?” 

Kitty looks up wistfully at the ceiling. 

KITTY: “I tried having sex with him for the first time in outer space while we were facing an alien invasion and he was almost 20.” 

Nori is stunned. She then bursts out laughing. 

NORI: “Okay. Yeah. That’s pretty bad.” 

Kitty, getting back on track, tells Nori that she should never change herself for anyone else - especially a guy. She has to know they all love her the way she is, right? 

NORIKO: “Julian couldn’t tell me he loves me.” 

KITTY: “Julian’s a stupid 17 year-old boy. You know what the truth is, even if he’s too dumb to spit it out.” 

Nori nods along, before glaring at her gauntlets. 

NORI: “Fuck! Ms. Pryde, I don’t really know who I’d rather be for myself. I just know I’m sick of this!” 

KITTY: “And we’ll keep doing everything we can for you.” 

NORI, shaking her head: “Don’t bother.” BEAT. “Am I still on the team?” 

KITTY: “We…still need to discuss that. But we do all want you to rest. Okay?” 

NORI, cringing without much hope: “Okay.” 

There’s a knock on the door, as Julian, chest bandaged up, reveals himself. 

KITTY: “I’ll give you two some privacy.” 

She pats Nori on the shoulder before allowing Hellion to take her seat. 

NORI, wanting to die: “You hear all that?” 

JULIAN, guilty: “Yeah. I did.”

Both go silent, before they simultaneously try to apologize. Noriko is unsure what Julian is apologizing for. 

JULIAN: “For making you feel like I wanted you to be Sofia. I don’t know what did to do that, but I did.” 

NORI, hanging her head: “I believe that you don’t want me to be her. But you still want her, don’t you?” 

JULIAN: “I didn’t say that.” 

NORI: “You couldn’t say you loved me. Do you still love her?” Julian opens his mouth before cringnig. “That’s what I thought.” 

Julian is REALLY sorry. He was ready to move on, he was, but then Sofia came back and…he can’t help how he feels. 

Nori pounds her fists against the bed. She’d call him a dick, but she doesn’t get to talk with how she’s been acting. 

NORI: “Do you even still want to go out?” 

JULIAN, struggling to say this: “I do. I WANT to love you.” Nori weakly smiles. “But I don’t think I can date someone who can’t be honest with me.” 

Nori cries, swearing and pounding her head against the bed. She’s so stupid! 

Julian hugs her to comfort her and get her to stop banging her head. He’s sorry. But he just has too much else stressing him out to deal with this. He still cares a lot about her; she’s still his best friend. 

Julian starts crying as Nori sobs and hugs him back. 

NORI: “Still gonna hang out together?” 

JULIAN: “Yup.”

NORI: “Still gonna kick ass together?” 

JULIAN: “Duh.” 

Nori laughs. 

NORI: “Keller, I’m the third girl you’ve broken up with here. I’m starting to think you might just suck at relationships.” 

Julian playfully pushes her back. 

JULIAN: “Not as bad as you suck at sucking, Ashida.” 

NORI: “Oh my GOD!” 

The two laugh. 

“Ah, Surge, good. You are awake.” 

Danger approaches Hellion and Surge. Julian begrudgingly thanks Danger for patching them both up…again. He knows she’s been doing that a lot lately. Danger is grateful for his thanks, but has a more important matter to discuss. Nori sarcastically asks if she figured out how to help her, to which Danger says no…but she does have news for her. 

 Danger explains that she ran some tests on Nori while she was working on her, and she found something interesting. The gauntlets serve the purpose of restricting Surge’s energy output; when her powers aren’t restrained they’re far more potent. But over the last year and a half, and especially the past nine months, Nori has been working for hours a day to train her powers. Obviously, she’s noticed she’s gotten stronger and gained more control. But she hasn’t been tapping into more of her pre-existing power. Rather, she’s only been increasing the potency of that existing strength. While restricted, her total energy output has increased at the same rate as her restricted output. 

SURGE: “I’ve got a C- in math, explain this to me like I’m five.” 

DANGER: “Say you are ten times stronger now than when you came to the school. Your full power is also ten times greater than when Danielle found you. I estimate the next time you remove your gauntlets, you would have the power to destroy all of New York.” 

NORI, flabbergasted: “Woah.” 

In the mission room, Scott (with an icepack), Emma, Magneto, Kitty, and Magik sit with Colossus. Colossus weakly apologizes to Scott for all this trouble. And for hitting him. He should have known better than to touch the gem left in his room. Kitty tells him not to blame himself; they used to get each other gifts all the time. 

PITOR: “Even still, I’m sure this isn’t what Cyclops had in mind when he called me.” 

SCOTT, confused: “I…didn’t call you.” 

KITTY: “Wait, what? Then who did?” 

Sofia pops into the mission room. 

SOFIA: “Oh, hello, everyone. I’ll let you all finish whatever you were discussing, but Mr. Summers, please expect a call from Gail Collins; she may be looking to enroll her daughter.” 

CYCLOPS: “Um, thank you, Wind Dancer.” 

Sofia nods and quickly exits. 

EMMA: “Already helping to find new students. They grow up so fast.” 

Kitty is annoyed. The questions just keep piling up, and they aren’t getting any answers. 

KITTY: “At least we’ve got you around now to help.” 

Magik holds Kitty’s hand, on the table, as she glares harshly at Pitor. 

PITOR, reluctant: “Unfortunately, I have had a chance of heart.” 

He apologizes to his little snowflake for coming to see her before she was ready. He will always be ready to talk to her when she wants to, but he does not wish to bring her any strife, or the team any dysfunction. Kitty is right that there are many mysteries, but the X-Men aren’t the only ones working to solve them; Logan and Storm are as well. He thinks he will go join them. 

COLOSSUS: “I never realized the two of you held these types of feelings for each other…but I wish you only the best.” 

MAGIK, smirking at her brother, arm around Kitty: “Do not worry, big brother. I will take very good care of her.” 

As Magik glares at Pitor, Kitty phases through the table to hug him goodbye. Pitor points out that a few years ago, she would have been kicking and screaming over him leaving. 

KITTY: “Yeah, well...we all grow up fast here.” 

EMMA, bitter: “Not everyone.” 

In detention, Quentin pays no attention as Emma lectures him for his misbehavior. 

EMMA: “Do you understand, Mr. Quire? Never again.” 

QUENTIN, smirking: “Of course, Ms. Frost. I will never be a bad boy again.” 

Later, as he exits detention, he’s flanked by Glob, Radian, Redneck, Tattoo, Martha, Ernst…and Escapade. 

QUENTIN, sneering: “Who’s the brat?” 

ERNST: “Escapade. She’s cool.” 

QUENTIN: “She better be. I got what I needed off Cerebro. Next week, we make our move.” 

[cxdemistake]

—Time slips away!

Burn out, don’t fade!

Dance on my grave!

I will never be them!—

Indie multimuse, multifandom blog.

Canon and OC muses present

Currently mobile-only

Semi-selective, semi-active

Open to asks and messages

More info (link to OCs, list of canon muses, writer info, and rules) under the cut.

OC Links

*Note: A few characters’ appearances/voices have changed, so make sure to check out the tags on the blog. OCs are tagged with “; (name)”— for example, my character Myarel is tagged with “; myarel” (no quotations).*

Canon Muses

*Note: Many of these muses aren’t listed on my muse page due to being unable to update said page from my phone. Muse tags vary. Some are tagged with fancy tags but I may switch between those and regular tags. They’re listed here in alphabetical order by fandom.*

**Edit: I’ve also marked which fandoms/muses are most active. Very active fandoms will be bolded, semi-active italic, and dormant/needing some time before interaction are regular text. I’ll also put an asterisk after new muses/muses I haven’t played yet. I beg that if a fandom isn’t bolded or italicized that you discuss it with me before sending something in or making a starter— I have a lot of muses and it takes time to get into the swing of new ones when I’m not in the right mindset!**

The Arcana: Asra Alnazar*, Julian Devorak, Portia Devorak*, Faust

American Gods: Mad Sweeney

Assassin’s Creed: Ezio Auditore da Firenze*, Aveline de Grandpré

Avatar: The Last Airbender: Zuko*

Back 4 Blood: Karlee*, Evangelo*

Baldur’s Gate 3: Astarion*

Boondock Saints: Murphy MacManus*

Call of Duty: Simon “Ghost” Riley*, Johnny “Soap” MacTavish*

Chappie: Chappie*

Columbo: Lt. Frank Columbo*

Dead Island/Riptide: Sam B, John Morgan*

Detroit: Become Human: Connor, Markus*

Dirty Bomb: Vassili*

Disturbed (band): The Guy*

Dream Daddy: Damien Bloodmarch*, Robert Small*

Dying Light: Kyle Crane*, Rahim*, Karim*

FNAF: Cupcake

Hazbin Hotel: Alastor, Angel Dust, Charlie, Husk, Lucifer

Homestuck: Gamzee, Calsprite

I, Frankenstein: Adam

Into the Badlands: Baron Quinn*

Jet Set Radio Future: Yoyo*

Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure: Jonathan Joestar*, Joseph Joestar, Jotaro Kujo*, Josuke Higashikata*, Giorno Giovanna*, Jolyne Cujoh*, Caesar Zeppeli

Kingdom Hearts: Axel

Left 4 Dead 2: Ellis, Nick

Marvel: Nightcrawler*, Moon Knight*, Eddie Brock/Venom*

Monster High: River Styxx*, Operetta*, Frankie Stein*

The Nightmare Before Christmas: Jack Skellington*

Obey Me!: Lucifer, Mammon, Leviathan, Satan, Asmodeus, Beelzebub, Belphegor, Diavolo

Onmyoji: Yasha*, Hiromasa*, Susabi*

Pirates of the Caribbean: Captain Jack Sparrow*

Portal: GLaDOS

Red Dead Redemption: John Marston*, Arthur Morgan*

Rise of the Guardians: Jack Frost*

Skullgirls: Valentine

Stardew Valley: Shane*

Steven Universe: Garnet*, Ruby*, Sapphire*, Sunstone*, Sardonyx*, Rainbow Quartz 2.0*

Spiritfarer: Gwen*

Suicide Squad: Diablo

Undertale/Deltarune: Papyrus, Sans, Susie*

Until Dawn: Chris*

The Village: Ivy Walker

Walking Dead/Fear: Negan Smith, Daryl Dixon, Morgan Jones, Shiva, Victor Strand*, Qaletaqa Walker*, Crazy Dog*

Warframe: Excalibur Umbra*

Warm Bodies: R, M

What We Do In The Shadows: Nandor the Relentless*, Viago*, Vladislav*

Info About The Writer

Hi! I’m Alistair— you can call me that, or you can use my username for pretty much everywhere else, TheetyPie/Theety. I don’t mind either way.

I’m a trans guy, I use he/they pronouns. I’m panromantic/asexual, and I’m 27 years old.

I have 3 cats, they’re my babies. I also (as you can tell from above) have a lot of OCs, and the number is still growing. I want to turn my ideas into a bigger creation someday, still not sure exactly where I want to go with it.

I do more than write. I do art, I like video games, music, and just collecting stuff. Current obsessions are Monster High, Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, makeup, crystals, and jewelry.

Rules

The most important: I do not RP smut. In the past I’ve used the fade-to-black method, but I’m not entirely comfortable with that with most of my muses.

In the same vein, DO NOT FORCE SHIPS. I love ships as much as the next guy, but I would prefer to discuss it first, or for us to agree on it. It’s cool if your muse has a crush, totally fine— mine get crushes all the time! But make sure if you want to ship, we discuss it first.

In a similar vein to that one as well, no god-modding/powerplaying. If your character is strong, an immortal being, or whatever, cool! I have some of those too. But there should always be a limit. Don’t say your character is moving mine unless we’ve talked about that. Attempt to move them. Usually I follow along as long as boundaries aren’t pushed.

Don’t kill or seriously injure my muse without permission. Fights happen, of course, but again: discussion. I’m up for threads where my canon muses are injured or killed, but not where it happens to my OCs, unless we’re getting into a backstory and another OC that’s already deceased dies. Non-serious injuries are alright to come out of nowhere with, but if it’s a first meeting, I’d prefer to plot it out.

I’m semi-selective. I’m kind of particular about who I follow and who I thread with. I prefer us to be mutuals to thread, but you don’t have to be mutuals to send me things.

I’m very bad at keeping up with people. If you message me and I don’t respond, it’s usually bc I’m shy, I forgot, or I’m busy with work. It’s not you, I promise. Usually I don’t message first bc I’m nervous.

Back to shipping: I’m also multiship. Usually my ships are in different universes, unless discussed with all parties beforehand. The exception is a few of my OCs that are partnered together— ask about their availability. I love random ships, just talk to me about them!

I love duplicates of my muses. Whether it’s “x meets self” or I find someone I share a muse with, I love RPing with just about everyone. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we have a muse in common!

One of my other most important statements, not really considered a rule, but it’s still important: if you want to know something about any muse, canon or OC, please tell me— ask or message me! I haven’t been able to write down a lot of info about any of them because I’m on mobile, but I will infodump for you if you need/want to know something. I love talking about my children, they’re precious to me.

If you send something in or make something for me when we haven’t even spoken, I might not feel comfortable responding. I’m very shy and nervous about not having any discussion beforehand. 😭

If there’s anything I left out or you need to know, just ask!

[mysteryideasgroup]

Theodora Haakenson (My Msa x Til Morning's Light oc sona)

Full Name: Theodora Haakenson

Nicknames: Theora, Theo

Gender: Female

Profile Pic

Age: 16 (Currently), 21 (Epilogue)

Blood Type: A+

Occupation: Student/Paranormal Investigators

Actual or Past Occupation:

Favourite Shows/Games: Horror/Mystery/Solving/Legends/Urban Legends/Adventure/Fantasy/Comedy

(Big Fish Games of Horror, Scooby-Doo (Animated Movies, TV Shows Series, Games, Books), Urban Legends, Legend Quest/La Leyenda/Las Leyendas, Haunted House Game (Remake Atari), The Haunted Mansion (Video Game), Haunted House: Cryptic Graves, Haunted House Renovator, Til Morning's Light, Point and Click Games Horror, Nancy Drew: Message in a Haunted Mansion)

Favourite Food: Beef Noodles

Instrument: Guitar

Favourite Animal: Dog/Kitsune

Family Members Relatives: Fred Haakenson (Dad/Father), Connie Haakenson (Mom/Mother), Donnie Haakenson (Younger Brother), Nina Haakenson (Younger Sister), Laney Haakenson (Youngest Brother), Eli the Dog/Kitsune Haakenson (her pet Dog/Kitsune)

Other Family Members Relatives: Nate Haakenson (Cousin), Sam Haakenson (Cousin), Black-raven Haakenson (Goth Cousin), Vinny Haakenson (Cousin), Jannie Haakenson (Aunt), Crunch Haakenson (Uncle), and her other families

Friends: Sovanna Shanley, Lisha San Juan and her many friends

Enemies: Lincoln Masters (her bully-enemy), evil ghost twins and her many foes

Species: Human

Status: Alive/Active

Alignment: Good

Likes: Her Friends, her dog/kitsune pet, Sovanna Shanley with her great and adventure things

Dislikes: Losing her friends, being trapped or kidnapped, stuck in the haunted mansion

Hobby: Drawing, Playing Big Fish Games Hidden Objects of Horror, Reading Urban Legends and Walking with a Dog

Goals: Escape from being trapped in the Haunted Mansion before dawn/sunshine (Succeeded), Solve and find her lost and missing Best Friends going to What Happened to them

Weapons: Metal Baseball Bat

Powers and Abilities: Strength,

Skills and Abilities: Solving Skills, Puzzles Solving Skills, Mystery Solving Skills

Weaknesses: N/A

Fears/Phobias: Losing her Best Friends, Leaving behind her Friends, Being Trapped

Skin Colour: Medium 1/Peach Fair

Eyes Colour: Reddish Pinkish/Pinkish Reddish/Raspberry/Ruby/Rose

Hair Colour: Reddish Pinkish/Pinkish Reddish/Raspberry/Ruby/Rose

Clothes: T-shirt, Hoodie, Jeans

Shoes: Tennis Shoes

Accessories: Earrings, Neck Choker/Necklace Choker

Hair Styles: Feathered Bowl Cut

----

For @laurasanchez36

Theodora Haakenson (My Msa x Til Morning's Light oc sona) belongs to my new msa x tml oc sona

[evoldir]

Fwd: Postdoc: FredHutchinsonCenter_Washington.ComputationalBiology

Begin forwarded message: > From: evoldir@evol.biology.mcmaster.ca > Subject: Postdoc: FredHutchinsonCenter_Washington.ComputationalBiology > Date: 26 August 2023 at 07:44:02 BST > To: rdmpage@gmail.com > > > > Mahan Postdoctoral Fellowship > > The Herbold Computational Biology Program of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer > Center in Seattle, Washington invites applications for the Mahan > postdoctoral fellowship. The fellowship will provide an exceptional > individual with an early start on their career as an independent scientist > by providing a 21-month stipend to pursue their proposed research project > in the laboratory of a Fred Hutch Computational Biologist mentor. > > Faculty of any discipline or rank from the Fred Hutch, UW, or any other > institute may be proposed as co-mentors. The project must be focused on a > topic of biological interest, must involve a computational or mathematical > component, and may include an experimental component. A laboratory trained > scientist may satisfy the computational and mathematical requirement by > including a training component in their proposal. Computationally strong > candidates may include a laboratory training component as well. The > research direction should reflect the interests and ideas of the > applicant, although the final research proposal may be jointly designed; > see Additional Information for more details on the application process > and for a list of potential mentors. > > Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit organization > providing adult cancer treatment and groundbreaking research focused on > cancer and infectious diseases. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch is the only > National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Washington. > > With a track record of global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, > HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy and COVID-19 vaccines, Fred Hutch has > earned a reputation as one of the world’s leading cancer, infectious > disease and biomedical research centers. Fred Hutch operates eight > clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, > proton therapy and related services, and network affiliations with > hospitals in five states. Together, our fully integrated research and > clinical care teams seek to discover new cures to the world’s deadliest > diseases and make life beyond cancer a reality. > > At Fred Hutch we value collaboration, compassion, determination, > excellence, innovation, integrity and respect. These values are > grounded in and expressed through the principles of diversity, > equity and inclusion. Our mission is directly tied to the humanity, > dignity and inherent value of each employee, patient, community member > and supporter. Our commitment to learning across our differences and > similarities make us stronger. We seek employees who bring different and > innovative ways of seeing the world and solving problems. Fred Hutch is > in pursuit of becoming an anti-racist organization. We are committed to > ensuring that all candidates hired share our commitment to diversity, > anti-racism and inclusion. > > Please direct all questions to Ruby Mae San Pedro, Computational Biology > Research Administrator. > > Qualifications > > Ph.D. must have been awarded after June 2021 in a computational, > quantitative or biological discipline. Ph.D. must be awarded prior to the > start of the fellowship.  Applicants who have held faculty or scientific > staff positions are not eligible. Fred Hutch Internal applicants – > Start date at Fred Hutch must be within 12 months of the pre-application > deadline. > > Application Instructions > > Please apply at: https://ift.tt/h96fVYe > > > > Kendall Kochmer > Pronouns: He/Him > Recruiting Program Coordinator > Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center > O - 206-667-2612 > kkochmer@fredhutch.org > > kkochmer@fredhutch.org > > (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to > golding@mcmaster.ca

[cross-border-communications]

Segni: The town that turns its stones into works of art. Recall the historical event of the Patron Saint.

image credit Comune di Segni

Discover Segni: a town that transforms its stones into works of art. Learn about the history and traditions of the patron saint. Recreate historical events. The Palio di San Bruno 2023.

In today's story, we bring you a town in the south of Lazio that will allow you to explore your sense of wonder and embark on a fascinating journey to experience the captivating appeal of Segni. Once you're here, marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of the town's stone monuments, which are sure to leave a lasting impression. Immerse yourself in the region's rich cultural and historical customs centered around the venerated patron saint San Bruno. Thus take advantage of the chance to become enchanted by the intricate beauty of this charming town and all it has to offer.

The drapes wave in the wind. Gold and ruby tones paint the walls and vestments. Between the horizon and the walls, their beauty fills the eyes and the hearts of all.

View of an alley within the walls adorned with drape. credit Carla De Felice

The signs of the sacred in the historic center, the beating heart of the city, are the tireless efforts to honor St Bruno, the patron saint; they are a symbiosis of faith and tradition; they are the memory of the country and of the community; they are historical heritage, they are gathering and meeting, they are homage and gratitude to the city, born from the most profound emotions of sensitive and passionate souls.

The art of crochet has emerged victorious in Segni, as the sky now boasts beautiful "mandalas" as decorations. credit Eledina Lorenzon

The contrast between the sky and the ancient walls enhances the beauty of the historic center, where an atmosphere of faith and tradition reigns.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Segni: source Compagnia dei Lepini

The sacred signs are an expression of popular devotion to the patron saint. They are also a testimony to the history and culture of the city, handed down from generation to generation. They are a sign of belonging, of sharing, of gratitude, and appreciation for the city that is their home and their shelter.

A glimpse of the old town. image credit Radici Cristiane

In a vibrant and evocative context, the viewer is invited to observe. Passers-by are invited to contemplate not only an ephemeral and original work of art but also a message of hope and spiritual upliftment.

A glimpse of the old town. created by The Board Behind

Finally, I would like to draw your attention to the following: take advantage of the chance to experience an unforgettable one-month-lasting summer festival in Segni. Enjoy rich history, traditions, and spirituality with religious celebrations, cultural events, ludic, and many thrilling activities.

You can head to the Municipality of Segni's website for a detailed program and stay up-to-date with all the latest news on their social media channels Comune di Segni. This is an opportunity you will want to take part of!

🟠 Italiano

Il fascino accattivante di Segni, una città del sud del Lazio che con maestria dalle sue pietre rievoca vere e proprie composizioni d'arte. Immergiamoci nelle ricche usanze storiche e culturali che ruotano attorno al venerato Santo Patrono, San Bruno.

View of an alley within the walls adorned with wall tapestries. credit Carla De Felice

Sventolano i drappi. Parati e paramenti colorano la via, i muri, le vie tra le mura di oro e di rubino. Tra l'orizzonte e le mura, la loro bellezza riempie occhi e cuore. I segni del sacro nel centro storico, cuore pulsante della città, sono l'impegno profuso senza sosta per onorare San Bruno, il Santo Patrono; sono simbiosi tra fede e tradizione, sono i ricordi del paese e della comunità, sono patrimonio storico sono aggregazione e incontro, sono omaggio e ringraziamento alla città che arrivano dalle emozioni più profonde di anime sensibili e appassionate.

Vestment decoration along the alleys. Credit Carla De Felice

Il contrasto tra il cielo e le mura antiche esalta la bellezza del centro storico, dove si respira un'atmosfera di fede e di tradizione. I segni del sacro sono espressione della devozione popolare verso il Santo Patrono, ma anche testimonianza della storia e della cultura del paese, che si tramanda di generazione in generazione. Sono segni di appartenenza e di condivisione, di gratitudine e di riconoscimento verso la città che accoglie e protegge.

Vestment decoration along the alleys; credit Carla De Felice

Chi osserva è invitato a rivolgere lo sguardo verso un contesto vibrante ed evocativo. Chi passeggia lungo le vie è invitato a contemplare non solo un'opera d'arte effimera e originale, ma anche un messaggio di speranza e di elevazione spirituale.

A scene from the procession of the venerated patron saint San Bruno, created by The Board Behind

Infine, vorrei richiamare la vostra attenzione di non perdere l'occasione di vivere un indimenticabile festival estivo della durata di un mese a Segni. Per immergersi nella ricca storia, tradizioni e spiritualità, completo di celebrazioni religiose, eventi culturali e attività ludiche e ricreative.

Puoi visitare il sito web del Comune per un programma dettagliato e rimanere aggiornato con tutte le ultime notizie sui loro canali social al Comune di Segni. Questa è un'opportunità di cui vale la pena partecipare!

Drapes along the alleys, credit Carla De Felice

⏩ The Board Behind ⏩

[ikeromantic]

Playing His Part

A Mitsuhide Akechi fanfiction. This scene is set well after the events of the romantic epilogue and features Mitsuhide and MC in a modern setting extended story. Approx. 1200 words.

First: Mitsuhide and the Maiden

Previous: Enemy at the Gates

Mitsuhide sat in the sterile waiting room, glancing out at the view of the city below. Clearly, everything here was meant to leave him feeling unsettled and in awe of the man that could command such a space. But he was not easily impressed and these minor discomforts were nothing to the horrors he’d lived through. 

He felt the phone in his pocket buzz. Once. Twice. Again. Annoyed, he took it out to turn it off. This instant communication had its uses but it could interrupt at the worst times. The messages were from Sasuke and Miyake. They wouldn’t write unnecessarily. His eyes scanned the text. An attack at the hospital. Everyone safe. The enemy, a false doctor, escaped. 

It seemed he would have little time to cut the head off this snake. So be it. 

The door to Tanaka’s office slid open. The space beyond was brightly lit and dripped with color. Jewel tones of ruby and sapphire and emerald. A palette of rich, deep colors that plaid out in harmony across a variety of antique vases, silk scrolls, and paintings. It was, after the relentless white of the waiting area, almost blinding. Mitsuhide might have appreciated the ploy, had he not been the intended victim.

Still, he played his part, glancing around with genuine surprise as he entered the hallowed space.

Tanaka himself was less impressive. Balding and slightly overweight, he sat behind the desk like an ōgama from a folktale. All the toad needed was a spear and rainbow breath to convince Mitsuhide he was dealing with a yokai and not a man at all. He did not get up, only eyed the kitsune warlord the way one might a dog that has just shat on the floor.

Mitsuhide bowed low. It was always wiser to appear less to a man that tried so hard to appear regal. “Tanaka-san, thank you for seeing me on such short notice.”

He nodded, his expression grim. “What is this about?”

“I wanted to come to you directly with this information.” Mitsuhide began to spin his story for the crime boss. A tale of missing shipments, faked payments, secret books. And the honey atop it all, the bait to catch a snake. “I noted there is a significant shipment going out tomorrow night. It’s nowhere in the reports sent to your office, but I have the dock reservation, the driver payment . . .” He let his voice trail off as if nervous. 

Tanaka’s lips were a thin, pale line. His jaw jutted out and his eyebrows drew down heavily. “I assume you have proof?”

“Yes, Tanaka-san. I can send it at your word. I didn’t want to accidentally alert anyone to my knowledge as I don’t know who is involved.” Mitsuhide stumbled over the words, gripping his clothes tightly. It was tempting to end this now. To leap across the desk and strangle this man, this villain, that caused him so much pain already. But he would not likely survive the attack, even if he took Tanaka with him. That was not acceptable. He must live, if only to kiss his little one when her eyes opened again.

“That was . . . wise.” He steepled his fingers. “Why don’t I know you? Juni? That was your name?”

“Akechi Jūbei. I’m only a low level accountant, sir. I would not expect you to know me. Had this theft not been so . . . clear . . . I would never have put myself before you.” Mitsuhide bowed again.

“Provide this data to Ana. She will review it and let me know if you are wrong. For your sake, I hope you are not. For mine,” Tanaka chuckled, “I hope you are.”

Mitsuhide was led from the room a few moments later by Ana. They entered the elevator and got off at the 10th floor. 

“This will be your room while I verify your information.” She gestured to a small, basic apartment. It had a bed, a television, a toilet, and a sink. Barely enough space to turn around in, but better than a hole in the ground.

“Thank you, Miss Ana. I’ll send you the files now.” Mitsuhide sent the signal to Souta and hoped again the boy’s talent matched his ambition. 

She nodded and shut the door. It locked behind her, which was expected. He didn’t mind much. The lock was a temporary annoyance. Even now, Daiki was faking his way onto a security detail while Itsuko joined a janitorial crew, and Souta would be here shortly as IT support. The building would be infiltrated and Tanaka’s vulnerabilities made plain. 

This was always the hardest part of any plan. Waiting. Mitsuhide laid down and shut his eyes. At first, he tried to focus on the details of their plot. What could happen, what should. But the darkness behind his eyelids was haunted by his little mouse. He missed her so badly he ached. Only a few days had passed but it felt a lifetime. 

Though he would never admit to it, he imagined her warmth pressed against him. The sound of her steady breath in the cool, dry air of this room. It calmed him, just a little. He did not sleep, but he did relax. Waiting until the workday ended and night fell.

No one came for him. They did not bring him food or water or check to see if he was still in his room. Mitsuhide sat up and pretended to turn on the television. He used it to hide his quick check for where the camera in this room was placed. It was above the door, barely visible but for a tiny gleam from the lens.

He checked his phone, knowing none of his team would write him here, where it might be observed. But an accountant would check his phone. Then he stood and went to the door. Tried to open it. Knocked. “Hello? Excuse me! I would like to get some food!”

Mitsuhide kept this up for several minutes until someone came. He timed it. Eight minutes to react. Distance? Or lack of concern? It was hard to be sure. 

“I would like something to eat,” he told the guard. A young man with a pale face and wide eyes. He looked like a conscript. Barely into adulthood and already in a bad place. 

“There’s no food on this floor.”

Mitsuhide frowned. “I’m very sorry to bother you with this, but I have been in here for hours! Surely I could get something? A vending machine? Delivery?”

The guard shook his head. “I’m sorry but no.”

“What if we split it? I could pay and we could share a snack together. I bet you’re hungry too.”

“I -” The guard glanced up and down the hall. “There is a vending machine on the second floor.”

Mitsuhide shoved some money into his hand. “Get whatever you like. I’m not picky.” He took advantage of the motion to hook the small, magnetic key on the guard’s wrist. 

“Fine. But don’t make any noise while I run downstairs. The other guard will come and we will both be in trouble.”

“Of course.” Mitsuhide smiled. “I don’t want to make trouble for either of us.” He hid the key up his sleeve smoothly.

This was proving to be a useful night. He had an entry key for at least the first ten floors, an avenue to blackmail Miss Ana, and he now knew the guards worked in pairs. Yes. A fruitful mission all around. The lines of his plot were firming in his mind.

Next: Serendipity

[salemwritesxx]

easter surprise

summary: It’s Easter Day and Bakugou lays in bed sad and pissed – Y/n has canceled his flight last second, something came up. And so, Katsuki, who had taken time off his hero work just to be reunited with his long-distance boyfriend for a week, has nothing to do now. However, the Easter Bunny might have a little surprise for him after all.

w.count: ~900

content warning: fluff, long-distance relationship reunion

-----------------------------------

“Katsuki!”, his mom yelled loudly once again, though more annoyed than the first time.

The man in question, however, only barked something back, his already furrowed brows only deepening before he plopped his head back into his pillow, “Shut up! I don’t fucking care, have your own fucking easter surprise!”, Bakugou yelled back.

All he wanted to do was wrap himself in his blanket and pout, because you, who was living many, many hours away from him somewhere down in Okinawa, did not manage to come and see him during the easter holidays. Frankly, Katsuki didn’t want to talk to anyone, he didn’t want to see anyone, he simply wanted to go and blow something up.

“I swear this … stupid kid!”, she clenched her fist, before sighing and looking at you with an apologetic smile, “Seems like you have to bring the surprise to him, I’m sorry, Y/n.”

You just laughed though, “It’s okay, Mitsuki-san. It was my own fault for telling him I wouldn’t come, I guess I have to surprise him myself now.” before you stood up from the sofa.

Originally, you had planned to sneakily come without telling him and the moment he would come downstairs and he would see you, it was all but a big surprise and reunion, however, with your boyfriend sulking upstairs it all came a little differently.

Sighing once more, he was wrapped in a big, soft blanket, face buried in his pillow – he looked messy and tired. Bakugou couldn’t understand why his mother just wouldn’t understand that he was not in the mood for surprises. He had taken off from his hero work just because he thought you would visit him, but then everything changed and now? Now he was stuck at home – alone.

Usually he wasn’t defeated so easily, but he had really looked forward to meeting this holiday, especially since it took a few more months before you could finally move in together.

A knocking on his door made him groan loudly “UGHH Go AWAY!” thinking it was his mother.

“Aw, I’m hurt, Baby!”, you giggled and opened the door.

And the moment Katsuki heard your voice, he immediately raised his head to look at you, his ruby eyes staring at you for a few seconds in disbelief, even your “Surprise!” only seeping through to his brain very slowly, before he jumped up in a frenzy.  

“OW!”, however, being wrapped multiple times in his blanket, Katsuki only landed a few inches away from the bed onto the floor, the fabric wrapped around his hips and legs tightly.

“Kat! You okay?”, being the good, worried boyfriend you were, you rushed to his side immediately and kneeled down beside him, wanting to help. But Katsuki didn’t care, the moment you were in reach, he grabbed you by your shirt to pull you down.

Lips connected and eyes closed, he wrapped his arms around your neck, enjoying the sweet kisses that he had missed so much in the last months – and you complied happily.

While your tongues were twined and your hearts beat in unison you reached out to help him detangle from the blanket until he was finally free and pulled into your lap, Bakugou instantly relaxing as he sighed into the kiss blissfully.

Low, little grumbles of satisfaction escaped his throat as your lips melted together so perfectly – God, how he missed to kiss you, to hold you and just… feel you close by his side.

His lips were so soft and full against your own, your boyfriend tasting even sweeter now that you hadn’t kissed him in so, so long, never really wanting to let go again.

Though at last, he broke the kiss with a soft gasp. Looking straight into each other’s eyes for a few moments, he then whispered, “I seriously… hate you.”, before burying his face at your shoulder, your hearty laugh making his heart skip a beat.

“I’m sorry for lying, Baby. I wanted to surprise you. Can you forgive me?”, gently combing through his spiky hair, you pressed kisses onto the side of his head while holding him so close, both of you not wanting to leave this warm embrace.

“You should be thankful I love you, Y/n… Or I would have thrown you out the fucking window.”, he tried his best threatening voice he could manage, but it was pretty useless. Katsuki was just way too overwhelmed and happy you were here and not, like he thought, still in Okinawa.

“Hmm, then I’m lucky you love me, hehe.”, you giggled and hugged him even tighter, your whispered “And I love you so, so much as well, Pretty Boy.” made his heart jump, before he looked back up and pulled you back into another kiss.

“How long can you stay?”, Katsuki asked in a hushed voice while softly placing kisses around your mouth and onto your lips.

“Two weeks, then I need to fly back.”, in-between kisses, you answered his question, though not without stopping to return every little smooch.

“HaaAhh… Why can’t it be August already?”, a sad sigh left his lips.

“I know, but soon… We will live together, only a few more months!”

Burying his face in the nook of your neck once more, Bakugou started playfully sucking on your skin and kissing around, meanwhile your hand was slipping underneath his t-shirt to caress his back, the tips of your fingers gliding along his back dimples and then up his spine.

Even though he had woken up yesterday to the most horrible message when you told him you couldn’t make it, everything was fine now. Katsuki usually hated surprises, but … surprises like these were the best, because they made the time he waited for you and him to move in together just a little bit more bearable.

---------------------------

@salemwritesxx || do not repost, edit, modify or translate my works

writer’s note: First, HAPPY EASTER 🐰🥚 Second, I have a whole ass backstory for this little blob of writing, like a pen pal AU type thingy and wow- they’ve come a long way, from being childhood pen pal friends to almost moving in 🥺 Sorry, I’m babbling as if y’all know what I’m talking about even tho it’s all just in my head right now lol will hopefully write it out one day, for now! Hope you liked this reunion!

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Can you please do “I made your favorite dessert” from the marriage prompt list featuring the reader and Dean?

Hello Lovely! Thank you so much for requesting this. I will apologize for taking so long with this imagine. I did originally have another idea written out but reading through, I knew I needed to re-write it and give you a little more fluff than I originally had.

I also took a little longer because I fell down a rabbit hole with the real story of BBC and the timeline of how things happened and when they happened. It was quite interesting. I found out that the real Dean Karny (Most likely living with a different name) became a lawyer and was living in L.A. So, this is what I added into the imagine. I also made it that y/n and Dean were living in the witness protection program.

Anyway, if you have any question in regards to anything in this imagine, please feel free to message me.

I hope that you enjoy this fluffy Dad!Dean imagine.

===

July 9th, 1983 was the day you first clapped eyes on Dean Karny. You had recently moved to L.A from San Francisco and to make up the rent money you needed for your quaint little apartment; you took a waitressing job at the Tasty Noodle House in West Hollywood. It wasn’t your favorite job in the world, but it at least gave you a paycheck.

You thought he was the most handsome man you had ever seen and that meant that you were most likely way out of his league. Little did you know that the moment Dean saw you -passing by him as he was escorted to his waiting client-, his heart stopped for a minute. Your wavy brown hair was tied into a low ponytail and your uniform hugged you in all the right places. You were gorgeous and Dean knew he had to make you his.

Sure enough, you started dating after having an encounter with him at a party you had been invited to by one of your colleagues, Ruby. You and Dean were infatuated with each other and spent every spare hour with each other.

Unfortunately, 1984 rolled around and Dean had been involved with something that had turned your world upside down. Dean had testified against Joe in the murder of Ron Levin. You had to admit that you thought Ron Levin was dirty from the minute you met him but for the sake of Dean’s -and the BBC- dealings with him, you decided to just let it be.

Because of Dean testifying in this case, you were both placed in the witness protection program together as Dean had informed investigators that you two were engaged. Even if it was a falsehood at the time. You were given new identities and you both had to leave friends and family behind. You didn’t mind it at first as it was kind of exciting, but, eventually the novelty wore off and in 1989, you were stuck with marrying a Mr. Jack Kesler, rather than the man you had fallen in love with, Mr. Dean Karny.

You continued to call your husband Dean when you were at home in the private of your bedroom but of course in public and around the kids, you were Mr. and Mrs. Kesler. That’s where you were now. 1994 and Living in a quiet suburban neighborhood of L.A with your now lawyer husband and two kids. Ian aged 5 and Jennifer aged 1. Both of them resembling their father in some way or another.

“I see daddy!” Ian hollered from the front room. He had been insistent on watching for his dad through the front window.

“Ok bud.” You replied, continuing to stir the steamed veggies you had made to go along with the meatloaf you had made.

It was this moment that Jennifer decided to start slapping her hands on her highchair tray. You had put her in there so that she could not only watch you cook but stay out of trouble since she had started walking recently.

“There’s my girls.” Dean said as he walked into the kitchen. You looked up at him as did Jennifer.

“Hi babe.” You greeted, giving your husband a sweet kiss.

“How was your day?” Dean asked as he bent down to remove Ian from his leg.

“Busy. This one kept me on my toes the whole day.” You replied as you ruffled Jennifer’s hair. Dean smiled.

“Well, I’m home now. What can I do to help?” He asked. It was still silly to think that when you met him, you were warned of his playboy ways and now here he was. Dressed in a suit, living the suburban dad life whilst holding a little boy that looked so much like him. It was bonkers to think of where you two started.

“You can go and get settled. Ian can help me set the table.” You told him with a warm smile.

“You sure?” Dean asked.

“I’m sure, Jack.” You said, slightly frowning. You hated how that sounded rolling off your tongue. Dean laid a hand on yours sympathetically. He knew how you felt. He felt the same after all.

“I love you.” He said, giving your cheek a kiss. You sighed and looked at him.

“I love you too.” You replied.

=

“How was school today?” Dean asked as you all sat eating your dinner. Well, almost all of you as Jennifer was happier throwing her meatloaf pieces on the ground, despite you telling her not to.

“I drawed you a picture.” Ian announced happily, making both you and Dean beam with pride for your little boy.

“I can’t wait to see it.” Dean told Ian with a smile.

“I think we have some room on the fridge for it.” You said, looking over at the food box which distracted you enough to not see Ian putting his broccoli on Dean’s plate. Dean quickly ate a piece before you turned your attention to the boys.

“What did you just put in your mouth?” You asked, eyeing Dean suspiciously. The man looked around playfully.

“Nuffing.” Came Dean’s muffled reply.

“De-“ You started before stopping yourself. “Daddy better not be eating your dinner.” You said, pointing your fork at Ian who grinned cheekily.

“Hmm.” You responded, turning to Jennifer who had put her ketchup laden hand on your arm. You groaned. Just then, you saw Dean sneak another piece of broccoli.

“Spit it out.” You said, looking at Dean. He quickly chewed and swallowed the veg.

“Alright then. I guess it’s just Jennifer and I having dessert tonight.” You teasingly as you picked up water to take a drink.

Both Dean and Ian looked at you to see if you were bluffing.

“Num!” Jennifer squealed. You knew she loved her dessert, especially when you would share with her.

“Num just for us.” You told her, earning a messy faced grin.

“What did you make?” Dean asked, curious. You shrugged.

“I made your favorite dessert.” You responded, knowing that it would get a gasp from both boys.

They loved it when you would make chocolate lava cake. It was something you only ever made when it was a special occasion such as Christmas, birthdays, Easter etc. This is what made Dean eye you suspiciously, trying to work out why you had made it tonight.

“But you never make it unless it’s special.” Dean said. You nodded and smiled.

“Ian’s report card came in the mail today. He got all A’s, so I figured I’d surprise him with it.” You told him honestly. Ian beamed at that. He was proud of himself, and you were proud of him.

“Are you sure there isn’t another reason?” Dean questioned. You shook your head.

“Neither of you will get to have any if Ian doesn’t eat his dinner without help from you.” You told them both.

“But I don’t like the trees.” Ian whined with a frown. Dean looked at his son.

“I know you don’t but just think, the faster you eat them, the quicker you can have cake.” He encouraged.

“Just eat it too fast other wise you’ll choke.” You informed your son. Ian nodded sullenly and you went about cleaning Jennifer up from her mainly discarded on the ground dinner.

=

With Jennifer getting a bath by Dean and the dishes being done by you, Ian sat at the table finishing off the remanence of the chocolate lava that had oozed from his cake.

“You almost done bud?” you asked, drying your hands. Ian nodded as he licked his plate clean.

“Here mama.” Ian said as he handed over his now saliva clad plate.

“Thank you.” you replied as you made your way over to clean the dish.

“Ian, you ready for bath time?” Dean asked as he walked back toward you with a freshly clean Jennifer. She looked at you through her long lashes as she rested her head in the crook of Dean’s neck. You knew she was ready for bed.

“Yes daddy.” Ian said as he hurried off his chair, thanked you for dinner and rushed upstairs to wait for his dad.

You chuckled as you watched.

“Why don’t you read her a story and I’ll bathe Ian.” You said, seeing how much Jennifer was loving to cuddle her dad.

“Are you sure y/n?” He said, knowing how much you needed to hear him use your real name. You smiled and hugged him.

“I’m sure Dean.” You said through a contented smile. He kissed your forehead and went in search of Jennifer’s bottle.

=

“Do you ever miss it?” You asked as you watched Dean move around your shared bedroom. He looked at you.

“Miss what Princess?” He questioned in reply.

“What we used to have. The parties, the drinking, the thrill of having sex over your desk. Everything.” You said, remembering all the naughty things you and Dean used to partake in. He smiled at you.

“Do you miss being known as Dean Karny cause lord knows I miss being y/f/n y/l/n.” You concluded.

“Sometimes I do but I also know that if we returned to who we used to be and where we used to be, we’d be in serious danger. That’s the last thing I want for my family.” He explained. You nodded. You had to agree, you didn’t want your family in danger.

“Ian asked for a special story tonight.” You started. Dean raised his brow as he crawled into bed beside you.

“What story?” He asked.

“Ours and it sucked because I didn’t know what the hell to tell him. I really wanted to tell him the truth.” You recounted. Dean sighed.

“Maybe we’ll have to make up a story and tell him we’re undercover cops.” Dean replied, drawing a laugh from you.

“You think he’d go for that?” You teased. Dean chuckled.

“Can I ask you something?” Dean asked and you hummed in response.

“Is there another reason you made the lava cake tonight, other than Ian’s report card?” He questioned. You turned to face him.

“Truthfully, I just wanted make something sweet and the fact that Ian’s report came today, it was perfect.” You replied.

“Well, it was certainly very special so thank you.” He whispered.

“If seeing my family happy means making special treats for dessert, then that’s what I’ll do.” You replied, closing your eyes and cuddling into Dean’s grasp further.

So yes, as hectic and surreal as you and Dean’s life had become, at the center of it, you had love and your children and that’s all that really mattered to you.

===

[theredsuzuran]

Yandere Muzan x Reader

I apologize in advance for any grammatical errors, also for my crappy writing I hope It does not bore you lol. Slight mention of gore

It was the time of summer

A multitude of people hovering over one another in the vast space of the lively Asakusa city occupying the streets like tiny ants. Unfortunately it was same monotonous sight for kibutsuji Muzan progenitor of the morbid demon race, who seems to be roaming around uninterestingly looking for a suitable prey to hunt. The fleeting lives of mortals, their compassion, happiness, sorrow, pain held no value to him. They are pests who belong in the dirt or beneath his feet, inferior compare to a perfect being like himself. Nothing more than a tool that he won't hesitate to discard after his desires are fulfilled. All of a sudden his gaze felt upon a petite figure near a tailor shop, a large number of people gathering around her.

What's the matter, mister? Muzan inquired to a man next to him.

"if you are new definitely try her kimonos, now make way" the man said quickly as he rushed to the shop pushing all the people away. He was interested to know what the deal was about so he decided to stay for a while hoping it's worth the wait.

After a long delay muzan finally got the chance to view the women. As their eyes locked the dazzling city lights broader than the day itself felt dull in comparison for a moment, the once monochromatic world seems to change vibrantly with her luminous presence, As if goddess Amaterasu, the diety of sun herself have ascended from the heaven into the mortal realm. The demon lord stood there mesmerized by her breathtaking beauty, how can someone so close to perfection exist alongside those barbarians.

"How can I help you mister?" She questioned politely with her soft vocal. His endless thoughts were interrupted breaking the silence.

"Show me your kimonos"

And so his obsession started..

Days passed since his last encounter with the woman. He have come across numerous marvelous humans in everlasting lengthy life but never have his ruby eyes caught a glimpse of someone as alluring as her. The girl possesses an unique aura that differentiated her from the rest of the crowd, able to draw attention from the cold hearted creator of cannibalistic demons. At first muzan was just curious to know about that woman, possibly persuade her to become one of his underling because of the potentials she may carry. He frequently begun to visit her shop to but or sew different fabrics. Gaining basic information, like her name, likes and dislikes, etc. Her grandfather owned the tailor shop which sold finest quality garments from the beginning and were highly respected for their excellent tailoring. Continued by (y/n) at her family's will, who runs the shop with equal undying devotion.

She treated him with such kindness even though he was a ruthless demon not that she knew about it or let alone the existence of demons. The deepest corner of his dark heart illuminated with pure light whenever she was around and he came to the conclusion that she was the ray of sunshine he desires to perceive. Eversince he was cured from his fatal illness the only goal in his life was to conquer the sun which prevents him to achieve absolute perfection, in order to live an eternal and indestructible life or so he thought until that very day his eyes laid upon you. It would be stupid to think that demons are capable of experiencing love, concepts of feelings are completely foreign in their conciousness, it was more like obsession. His megalomania makes him believe he needs you no he wants you.

Alas, if only it was a fairytale. The king does not always gets what he desires and same goes for the demon lord when he finds out that his beloved darling already has a lover. As he witnessed the sight of you hugging your partner with passion. The way her eyes flutter infront of him when he caresses her cheeks making her turn away bashfully and how she hold his hand with her delicate ones while exchanging vows of love and loyalty towards each other made his blood boiled with fury. If anyone who can hold her fragile frame is none other but the demon lord himself yet there she was sharing intimacy with some filthy creature. His narcissistic self was put down with a lowlife, he cannot accept that his (y/n) was claimed someone else's. It was something he would never allow to happen.

"Kibutsuji san would you like to buy something today as well?" The women who now acknowledge his presence asked him cheerfully.

"Should I visit you later" a force smile graced on his pale features.

"Oh no, it's fine, let me introduce you to my fiancee" she said excitedly.

"Nice to meet you kibutsuji san" your fiancee said

"Pleasure to meet you as well" The demon scoffed under his breath but Kibutsuji was quite adamant he knew it was not hard to turn the tables anytime sooner as with a blink of an eye he can get rid of him by simply ordering his underlings without even hesitating to dirty his hands exclusive for his precious darling. But that was not what muzan was planning to do at all as his mind was engulfed with much sinister thoughts.

To insanity?

"You have been restless for a long time, what's wrong my child?" A man asked with a look of concern written all over his face looking straight at the figure of an anxious woman roaming around impatiently within the house.

"Its been a week father since he last wrote a letter to him" she mumbled softly disappointment painted across her features. The father could not help but laugh a little by her daughter's remark.

"Father please it is serious"

"I am sorry sweetheart but it might be that your fiancee is busy with wedding preparation" which made sense because the wedding would be taking place after three day and it was obvious that he was caught up with the arrangement. However there was a strange feeling inside her stomach which made her believe otherwise.

As the days passed the wedding day came close, with (y/n) still not receiving any message from her lover. Worried her to the core at this point all she wanted was to make sure of his safety as something constantly felt off. The guests came in one by one for the wedding ceremony but there was no sign of the groom.

It was getting unbearable for her to remain confined. Ignoring her father's request to stay inside she went outside in hope to check whether or not her lover was approaching but once again she was greeted with emptiness. Her eyes swell up with tears forming on both corners allowing her body to slowly hit the surface as she convinced herself that her lover will never come. The worst was yet to happen and before she could make any movement the ground beneath her feet started shaking and a shoji door opened consuming her into the darkness.

It was just the start of her miserable life under the demon's control.

"So you are finally awake", a sudden voice came echoing into her eyes as she slowly opened her eyes after regaining her consciousness. She moved her hands upwards in order to ease the headache only to find her hands tied up with shackles, a chilling sensation of overwhelming fear filled her entire senses as she remembered what happened prior.

"Where am I? Why am I chained?" Who are you?" she demanded furiously at the mysterious figure infront her which was now advancing at her direction from the dark corner of the dimly litted room.

"You are quite an impatient one?" The man gripped her chin roughly as her eyes protruded out with bewilderment.

"Can't even remember your daily customer?" A wicked smile curved across his countenance.

"K..Kibutsuji san" she parted her lips. Tears forming in her eyes once again. This made muzan even more irritated as he tightened his grip on her chin. (Y/n) whimpered with pain crying out loud.

"Your shouting won't help dear nobody apart from me can hear you scream" he said bluntly with his cold apathetic voice.

"Why?" (Y/n) lowered her head down holding his hand with her delicate ones trying her best to get a hold of him.

"Pardon?" Muzan inquired as he stared at your quivering form with his souless eyes there was no empathy in them or whatsoever although he felt pity. He cannot deny the fact that he was indeed attracted to her that's the reason why he put her into so much hassles.

"Where is my lover?" She asked sternly with her voice shaking a bit.

"Oh" muzan responded his hand still holding her chin tightly. This made her even more anxious she was unaware of the power he might possess and definitely she didn't had any intentions to risk her life.

"Why can't you humans move on and accept circumstances given before you?" it startled her as she cannot process what he meant.

"I don't.. u..understand" she said.

"Then you have to learn to accept me as your partner" muzan replied coldly (y/n) sat there looking at him with disbelief her heart and soul belonged to someone else and for a long time they have been together it's absolutely impossible to change the reality she was accustomed with just because some maniac wants to make her his partner.

"I can never" she murmured with disgust hinted in her voice. "I love him" throwing daggers in his direction not ready to submit her futile attempts of protest should pissed the demon lord even more but to her surprise she saw him smiling menacingly and in the corner of her eyes she saw the figure of her debilitate lover.

"Start from his fingers" muzan ordered one of his subordinate as they began chopping one of his finger making him scream in pain.

"No! please don't hurt him" trying to break free from the shackles she was tied with realizing it was fruitless she fell on the demon's knee begging with all the strength left within her in a last desperate attempt.

"You left me with no other choice, dear" he explained playing his sick games of manipulation on her. This was exactly what he needed to break her mind and she cannot help but rely on him pleading for his forgiveness feeding on his massive ego providing him ultimate satisfaction to witness the quivering frame of his darling clinging onto his knee in pure submission.

"Please I will do anything you say" she requested shaking like crazy.

"Anything?" Muzan questioned raising his eyebrow

"Yes" she replied without any hesitation.

"Be mine"

She already knew that he wanted this and she readily obliged in order to save her beloved, sacrificing her own life. Her only purpose was now to satisfy the demon lord, he was successful until the very end and it won't take long to make her completely his.

[terrm9]

The Fourteenth

Just a very quick and silly drabble I wrote last night to take my mind off those not very nice anons. Biggest thanks go to @starrystarrytrouble​ the angel Ruby that talked some sense to me when I wanted to delete this whole account. Ruby I love you so much.

I know I said there was no Valentine’s day fic coming from me and idk if this is even a fic or if it can be considered Valentine’s day fic, but here we are.

See more notes in the end

"It is the Valentine's day," Ethan stated out of blue when Chiara walked into his office to drop off some charts.

The whole hospital was living in those hideous tones of pink and red, paper hearts and teddybears everywhere he looked.

It was worse than Christmas Eve.

"I am aware," Chiara grinned, already turning on her heels to leave.

She has been busy, apparently and yet, Ethan couldn't stop himself from asking.

"You are not going to mention it? Aren't you waiting for a card from me, or a rose?"

Not that it would be something he'd like to do - there was no worse capitalistic holiday than Valentine's Day. But if Chiara asked, well, a rose never killed anyone.

Chiara simply laughed at his questions, a rich, wholehearted laugh that bounced off the walls and then shook her head slightly before responding: "I do not celebrate the day."

"Why?"

Ethan was genuinely curious, because Chiara was the woman that celebrated anything and everything.

"It's-" Chiara sighed softly and took a seat behind Ethan's desk, an indication that there was a story behind her decision. "It's a family tradition. My dad was a lot like you in this matter, actually. He didn't see a point in celebrating February 14. But my mom loved celebrating anything, be it February 14 or 18, she didn't care. She just wanted to celebrate."

Chiara laughed at the memory and crossed her arms at her chest before explaining further.

"And so my dad said we wouldn't celebrate February 14 but rather March 14. Because March 14 is Pi Day."

"Pie day? Like what, apple pie day?" Ethan raised an eyebrow, not sure why Dorian found celebrating a cake more appealing than celebrating love.

"No, like Pi, the constant. 3.14, a number that is infinite. Archimedes' constant if you must. The Greek symbol π."

Ethan nodded, yes of course I know, and Chiara nodded too, satisfied with his mathematical knowledge and continued.

"As a man who talked about math and science for living, dad found it hilarious. Mom was just happy we celebrated something. And so dad would always come home from work on that day, the best apple pie in whole San Francisco in his hand and it would be our dinner. As a gift, all of us have gotten a terrible, nerdy Pi joke from him."

Laughing softly to herself, she cleared her throat and imitated her dad's voice: "'You know why you should never talk to π at the party? Because he'll go on forever.' or 'What's the animal symbol for today? A π-thon!' He would laugh at his own terrible jokes so hard he'd cry."

Her own smile faltered around the edges as she finished and Ethan took her small, soft hand into his much bigger and much more rough one, drawing soothing circles on her knuckles.

"We don't really celebrate it anymore. We just exchange a Happy Pi Day message with mom and Alicia but that's it. I don't think I've had a pie in these last 7 years."

She smiled at him again, although this smile was far from the one she wore only minutes ago, a strained, sad mask rather than actual joy on her face.

Ethan leaned over his desk to put a lingering kiss on her forehead and he knew he had exactly one month to find the best apple pie in Boston.

*** *** ***

I am sorry this is not even romantic or anything, I just wanted to laugh at something and nerdy jokes are my thing and somehow this drabble happened.

Biggest thank you to everyone who showed me any kind of support or love or kindness yesterday, it meant more to me than I can possibly express.