#my favorite corps member of that era

[kryptonbabe]

I never get enough of Soranik Natu using her green lantern ring to practice her medical abilities, especially when she's doing it for free on the slums and poor neighborhoods of Korugar, healing people who otherwise would have no way to access medical treatment. That's one of the coolest ways to use the green lantern energy to help others

From Green Lantern Corps #5 & #10 (2007)

[batmanschmatman]

Book Rec: Coming Out Under Fire, by Allan Bérubé

Occasionally I see some discourse on Tumblr from folks in the HBO War fandom or different historical/history adjacent fandoms about how there weren’t that many members of the queer community involved in WWII, and I’d really like to point them and everyone else with an interest in queer history to this wonderful book. Originally published in 1990, Coming Out Under Fire gets into all the different ways queer folks DID participate in the war. It’s from an American perspective, so if you’re looking for other Allied experiences, unfortunately there won’t be much here for you, but it’s exceptionally well researched, and crucially a lot of the content comes from interviews with surviving servicemembers. There’s also a documentary based on the book, which came out a few years later and includes video interviews with some of the folks included in the text.

One of Bérubé’s main points in his introduction – and for writing the book in the first place – is the American government, history textbooks, Hollywood, etc. is able to paint the WWII-era military as an almost entirely straight military force because many queer people who participated in the war effort were silenced during their lifetimes, and were unable or unwilling to reveal their true identities. Some of this was from societal pressure – the post war period saw a huge surge in homophobic rhetoric and persecution in the name of fighting Communism, not to mention the ever present heteronormative pressure to get married and have kids – but also because so many queer veterans died during the AIDS epidemic. Bérubé was inspired to preserve the voices of those who were still with us and shed a light on some of the folks we lost. (Note that this was also an intensely personal issue for Bérubé, who lost friends and his partner to AIDS and thus saw first hand how devastating this was to the community in terms of robbing us of our loved ones, friends, elders, and history itself.)

In the book, Bérubé makes the point over and over again that queer people were involved at basically every level in the American military during the war. There’s stories about guys lying when asked “Do you like girls?” during enlistment, lesbians in the Women’s Army Corps being brought to trial for fraternizing, drag shows in POW camps and in reserve, front line combat veterans discussing losing romantic partners to enemy fire or coming out to foxhole buddies, who were supportive allies rather than hateful. One of my favorite stories that’s always stuck out to me is a guy who came home and decided to come out to his elderly mother, who was fully accepting and supportive of her son’s sexuality. I see so many people speaking in absolutes that there’s NO WAY you could come out to your family and be accepted in the past, and while that was certainly true for so many people, it’s also not an absolute truth.

Please note I am NOT giving blanket permission to make assumptions about real-life people’s sexualities or identities, nor am I saying Band of Brothers fics where half the company is dating each other are historically accurate, but it’s really sad to see folks on here (unknowingly, hopefully) perpetuating the myth that there really weren’t that many queer folks in the military during WWII. We were there, we just couldn’t be out the way we might have liked to be. After the war, the Red Scare, societal pressure, and a literal epidemic silenced countless members of the community about their time in the service. There’s no way to know how many people who fought on Guadalcanal or worked at stateside bases or sorted mail in France were queer, but it’s a lot more than you were led to believe.

As a member of the community and a historian (brief resume: MA in Public History, BA in American History, have published stuff and created exhibits for dozens of museums), I just want to remind folks that we have always been here, and our lives weren’t always miserable and tragic when we came out to people or decided to live as authentically as we could get away with. It’s not completely historically inaccurate to write fic or original fiction where your queer characters can come out to their families and not be shunned, or live with their partners and not be immediately murdered. Being queer wasn’t invented at Stonewall.

[demonslayedher]

So I was already itching to make some Kanao fanwork of some kind when I was walking around today and I spotted this:

Ramune Daifuku!?

For any weeb out there who has not had the pleasure of discovering ramune for sale in their local Japanese/Asian grocers, these are clear sodas in iconic glass bottles with a glass marble in the top. You press down (or let's be honest, dramatically pop) the plastic top to push the marble down into the knobby top of half of the bottle, and it stays there rolling around as you guzzle the soda. It, and other sodas like it, was already popular back in the Meiji era, and existed in an older but very similar type of bottle. It would had been readily available by the time Kimetsu no Yaiba takes place and you could realistically write fanfics with silly Corp members spraying each other with soda or frustrated with trying to get the marble out.

(This post was edited a day later because I made it a point to get actual ramune footage. I wore my butterfly yukata and somewhat of a side ponytail for full effect.)

Since Kanao's favorites are ramune soda and anything that Aoi makes (I'm just going to assume she can make a variety of sweets, she is very talented), I of course had to try it. A good thick mochi outside... and then what was this lemon-limey blue layer? A shiro-an, or--no, there's the shiro-an inside of it! And--what's this powder in the center? Oh my Oyakata-sama, it was a full center of fizzy ramune candy!!!!

[emmalovesfitzloved]

An Essay on X-Men’s Krakoa Era

Reflecting on the Krakoan Era, it's challenging to express my overall feelings, especially considering its anticlimactic conclusion. Nevertheless, documenting my thoughts now might help me see if my perspective changes in the future.

Few comics have thrilled me like HoX/PoX did. Each issue was a whirlwind of excitement, and the peak moments remain unmatched within the era. While I have favorite individual issues, such as S.W.O.R.D. #3, Hickman's introduction to the Krakoan Era stands out as a near-unparalleled body of work.

Dawn of X was inconsistent. Despite high hopes for Hickman's solo run, there were significant highs and lows. Issues like X-Men #4, #7, and #11 stood out, but others, like X-Men #3, were disappointing. Hickman's run mainly laid groundwork for other writers, which, though not bad, wasn't what I anticipated.

Brisson’s New Mutants was forgettable, only serving to introduce the Goblin Queen, who later became vital in Ayala’s run. Hill's Fallen Angels had high concepts but lacked character depth, leading to its early cancellation, though it did set the stage for Wells’ Hellions.

Howard’s Excalibur, mainly setting up the X of Swords crossover, felt like it was biding time until the event. Duggan’s Marauders, especially post-issue #21, also failed to impress. Percy’s X-Force and Wolverine, spanning the entire era, suffered from a lack of editorial direction, though they might be viewed more favorably in the future.

The six initial titles were serviceable but often underwhelming. The collaborative effort behind the launch masked many of their weaknesses. In the second wave, Duggan’s Cable, William’s X-Factor, and Wells’ Hellions were standout titles, making the loss of X-Factor particularly disappointing.

Reign of X felt like a reset post-X of Swords, with Ewing's S.W.O.R.D. launching strong despite crossover disruptions. Ayala’s New Mutants consistently delivered, but her Children of the Atom was lackluster. Spurrier’s contributions were solid and crucial to the era.

Howard’s post-crossover work lost my interest, and her X-Corp series failed to captivate. The first Hellfire Gala was a storytelling highlight, while Ewing’s Guardians of the Galaxy crossover added value to the era’s narrative.

The lead-up to Hickman’s Inferno saw cancellations like William’s X-Factor for the Trial of Magneto, which didn’t align with Inferno as intended. Inferno itself was a fitting end to Hickman’s run, setting the stage for Gillen’s rise.

Gillen’s Immortal, Ewing’s Red, and LaValle’s Sabretooth series were post-Hickman highlights. Gillen’s Immortal distilled his earlier work, while Ewing and Spurrier continued building on their respective stories.

Duggan’s era was mixed; his Cable run was excellent, and early X-Men issues were strong, but later work suffered due to crossover interruptions and inconsistent quality. The A.X.E. event, while a capstone to Gillen’s Eternals, disrupted Duggan’s X-Men narrative with little to no consequences to the Krakoan Era.

The final phase, Fall of X, included many filler issues but also some gems. Spurrier’s work with Kurt and Ewing’s strong finish stood out. Overall, despite the bloat, 61% of the nearly 725 issues from the Krakoan Era remain cherished.

In terms of the overall lore and mythos of Krakoa, it's still dubious whether it had a significant impact. Few characters really stood out, as the era was driven more by plot than by character development. Historically, the X-Men have thrived on rich character narratives that created a soap opera effect. However, this era focused more on showcasing what characters could do rather than exploring their interpersonal relationships, which were deeply underdeveloped.

Standout characters like Professor X, Destiny, Emma Frost, and Magneto, primarily members of the Quiet Council, were given prominence, while 90% of the rest of the X-Men were underutilized. This is disappointing, as the era's format seemed perfect for deep character-driven stories. Characters like Jean Grey, Hellion, Cyclops, and Legion, among others, had opportunities for development that fell flat. The era lacked consistent and balanced character narration and plot development that made earlier X-Men stories compelling, marking one of its weakest points.

As we move forward to the next era, "From the Ashes," the general sentiment I believe is emblimised across the fandom is mixed cautious, optimism and excitement. Fans hope for a return to the tight, cohesive storytelling that characterized the best of the Krakoan Era, with a renewed focus on character development and innovative plots. The hope is that the lessons learned from the highs and lows of the past years will guide the creative teams to deliver stories that resonate deeply with the readers, balancing epic narratives with intimate character moments.

Krakoa Forever.

[relicsongmel]

Actually you know what fuck it I think I do wanna elaborate on Sylvia/Cyllene. Extensive, dubiously coherent yapping about OC x canon under the cut so be warned

First of all, a bit of background on the context behind Sylvia's PLA AU: Sylvia gets isekai'd to Hisui while she's still halfway through her travels in Sinnoh, which is roughly a year after her challenge to the Unova Pokemon League and the whole debacle at N's castle. Which is to say, she's already a pretty experienced Trainer at this point and her experiences with Team Plasma have greatly influenced the way she approaches her relationship with Pokemon (I could write a whole other essay on this topic but basically she's extremely careful about abiding by her Pokemon's wishes and always puts all Pokemon before herself regardless of whether they're hers or not).

With that laid out, let me explain why I'm really drawn to Sylvia/Cyllene as a ship (SteadfastHeartShipping, as I've dubbed it) and why it's genuinely one of my favorite Sylvia shippings I've ever had.

On the surface, Cyllene comes across as distant, detached, and even unnecessarily harsh at points, such as when she very bluntly tells Sylvia that should she fail to pass her initial trial to enter the Survey Corps, she will be left out in the wilderness to whatever fate has in store for her—probably death, all things considered. Her demeanor is emblematic of the frigidity of Hisui itself, and I often think about how it's very likely a coping mechanism to deal with how ruthless and unforgiving a region it is, in an era predating the coexistence of humans and Pokemon. The weather is cold and often unpredictable, resources are scarce, and Pokemon are incredibly dangerous and (somewhat rightfully) considered terrifying by most people. To put it simply, death lurks around every corner in the land of Hisui—and Cyllene has likely lost so many comrades within the Galaxy Team that she's found it's easier for her to manage if she simply shuts herself off emotionally. After all, there's no point in getting attached to someone when you can lose them all too easily, which we know for a fact she has—even disregarding the possibility of losing someone to disease or injury, there's a Diamond Clan member who mentions that Clover of the Miss Fortune sisters was once a member of the Survey Corps before she became fed up with the Galaxy Team and left to live as a bandit instead. With all this in mind, her cold mannerisms are the only way she knows how to survive without disrupting the delicate emotional balance in her heart. And she cannot allow herself to bare weakness—because that poses the risk of succumbing to despair, which would further compromise her ability to protect what small amount of people she has remaining.

Enter Sylvia: a woman who, by all appearances, is entirely Cyllene's opposite—clearly visibly nervous from suddenly finding herself in an unfamiliar land and needing to adapt to its people and culture, but nonetheless bright, cheerful, and eager to make herself useful to the Galaxy Team. She's friendly and adaptable, and seems to hold nothing but love for the world around her—a love she displays wholly and openly, and extends to both people and Pokemon. On top of that, her knowledge of Pokemon rivals that of Professor Laventon and she proves herself to be incredibly adept at handling and surveying them. In all respects, she's truly a godsend to the Survey Corps, but Cyllene can't help but find it baffling that she can wear her heart on her sleeve in such a way despite her position as a stranger from the space-time rift, who could well be sent back to her own era at any time, for all she knows. Of course, what she won't admit to herself is that Sylvia's loving nature reminds her of what she's deprived herself of for so long, but nonetheless, watching her care so deeply makes her heart ache—in a way she can't ignore no matter how much she tries. Her defensiveness of how she's chosen to cope with her loss notwithstanding, it also makes her worry that someday this young woman will suffer the cruel bite of reality one day whether she's prepared for it or not, a fate all too likely in Hisui. It takes time, but she eventually realizes that Sylvia's open love is a source of strength for her, and she comes to admire her for that quality, different though it may be from her more reserved way of showing it.

What Cyllene doesn't realize until much later, however, is that Sylvia is not nearly as naive or emotionally straightforward as she originally perceived her to be.

Sylvia is all too familiar with loss and emptiness herself—she's never known her father, she had an uncle seemingly vanish from her life without a word, she was once betrayed by someone she considered her companion and friend (even if she eventually helped him see reason in the end), and now, she's completely cut off from her family, friends and Pokemon across time and space, wholly uncertain if she'll ever find a way to return to them, or even see them again. Sylvia does her best to come across as kind, approachable and dependable, and while it is motivated by a genuine desire to do good in the world, it is also a facade to cover up the fact that she feels like an outsider in Jubilife Village. That she feels alone. But she, much like Cyllene, doesn't start in a position where she feels safe to express that kind of vulnerability to others, because for all she's willing to extend a helping hand to others when they need it, she'll only ever do so from a safe distance—a distance she's gotten frighteningly good at disguising behind a friendly smile and a gentle laugh. She won't let anyone in on her grief, because in her mind they've already been burdened with having to accept her despite her status as an outsider, and because she doesn't feel like she's earned the right to be cared for in that way (which again, is a whole other conversation on its own but if I go on that tangent now I will never stop so. Another time unfortunately). As for her thoughts on Cyllene specifically, she's initially a bit intimidated by her (as well as most of Galaxy's leadership in general—she's more uptight around them due to her aforementioned anxieties about fitting in, and fears that one wrong word or action could compromise her standing with them), but she's emotionally intelligent enough to recognize that she has the best interests of the Survey Corps at heart, and her actions speak louder than her words in that regard. She admires her work ethic and commitment to studying Pokemon, and even finds herself appreciating her blunt remarks in the sense that she has high regard for her ability to be brutally honest in a way that she could never bring herself to be.

Her exile from Jubilife Village during the calamity on Mount Coronet is very tumultuous for Sylvia and Cyllene both, as the event further solidifies the former's insecurities about whether there's truly a place for her in Hisui, and the latter finds herself terrified for Sylvia's safety to a degree she hasn't felt with anyone in a long time. Her worst fears are confirmed when her Abra, having picked up on its partner’s worrying, teleports away for a moment only to bring back a critically injured Sylvia from the Temple of Sinnoh after her battle against the Pokemon from the space-time rift. Thankfully the Medical Corps is right next door to patch her up—though they’re not entirely sure whether she’ll make it at first, in the end she comes out alive mostly thanks to Abra bringing her to safety before she could lose too much blood from her injuries. Of course, she doesn’t leave the ordeal unscarred—her memory of the past few days’ events is hazy, but she remembers clearly the despair she felt from her exile and it’s at this point Cyllene finally starts to see her crack. She visits her injured subordinate at her bedside in the Medical Corps office, and Sylvia tearfully asks her why she and many others went to such lengths to help her regain her position, and why she’s even worthy of being saved when she's an outsider who fell from the very source of the calamities plaguing Hisui. In a rare moment of complete emotional sincerity, Cyllene gently takes her hand and affirms that she is no longer an outsider—that she believes in the woman who's been instrumental in bringing the people and Pokemon of Hisui closer together. The woman who she's seen do good for the Galaxy Team over and over again. The woman who helped her realize that there is strength to be found through daring to express love and compassion in the face of death and strife. And hearing those words from her captain of all people—the same woman who once told her to her face that she'd be willing to let her die out in the wilds, but now has garnered enough respect for her to the point that she would openly defy her superior's orders for her sake, and whose Pokemon is now the very reason she's even alive at all after she narrowly carried out the order that she was also entrusted with by her? To stay it stirred something deep within her soul is a massive understatement.

As for how they eventually end up a couple? To put it simply...they're very messy and I love it to pieces. Cyllene finally admits to herself she's in love with Sylvia not long after the events at the Temple of Sinnoh, but as much as her feelings are starting to reach a boiling point, getting over her fear of emotional vulnerability isn't something that's going to happen overnight. Sylvia, meanwhile, is blessed with the hilarious but also dreadful trait of being frightfully perceptive about the romantic inclinations of literally everyone except herself and whoever she's attracted to in the moment—in which case her intuition is roughly akin to that of a brick. As such, it takes quite a lot for her to even realize she's in love most of the time, and unfortunately for Cyllene, this time is no different (and honestly even if she wasn't Like That she probably wouldn't have the guts to confess to her superior anyway). Cyllene also has to contend with the fact that Sylvia is, at the end of the day, not from her era—there's always a possibility she could be sent back through the space-time rift without warning, and she has to consider whether it's worth it to pursue a relationship with someone who could very easily be taken away from her at any moment. Which ultimately makes her decision to finally act on her feelings all the more impactful, in my opinion—even if she has extremely Disaster Lesbian methods of going about it lmao. Basically she kicks everyone out of her office one night to write multiple letter drafts that almost all end up in the trash. Sylvia, having been out all day on a survey, walks in on her writing one of them and she has to quickly put it away and shoo her off, her face burning all the while. When she finally finishes something she's somewhat happy with she stares at it for a solid 30 minutes before Abra takes matters into its own hands again and snatches it from her desk before teleporting to Sylvia's quarters to give it to her. Sylvia is THOROUGHLY shocked by the contents and spends the next few hours pacing said quarters, trying to figure out why her breathing is so unsteady and her heart is beating out of her chest before she meets her captain at Prelude Beach at midnight as the letter requested (she figured it out at about 11:30 and spent most of the time before the meeting with her hands over her face covering a smile that did not fade until after she had fallen asleep that night).

Long story short, their relationship is very wholesome and sweet—Sylvia brings out a very affectionate side of Cyllene that's unexpected at first but not at all unwelcome, and Cyllene in turn helps Sylvia grow more assertive when she needs to be—which benefits her quite a lot as she eventually gets promoted to Captain of the Survey Corps herself after Cyllene takes over as the Galaxy Team's commander. As much as I think they're perfect for each other to the point that I genuinely hesitated to canonize Sylvia returning to her own era after she sought out all Pokemon as Arceus had asked of her (because it made me too sad), in recent days I've started to think it would be a very fitting ending for their respective arcs. Cyllene's development from someone who swore to herself she would no longer be done in by the burden of allowing herself to care for those she would only end up losing, to someone who found a person so special to her that she willingly chose to love her even though she was the one most at risk of being lost—and someone who vowed that she would follow her example and continue to love in the same way she did, even after she was gone? Paired together with Sylvia learning that she will always find a home for herself wherever she goes among the people and Pokemon that she holds dear, and someone seeing through the invisible walls she's put up isn't such a bad thing after all? That it serves to further deepen the bonds she's put so much care into fostering (with this likewise being a lesson she learned from the woman she loved and one she swears to maintain even after they were separated)? Heartbreaking though it may be, it's simply too good to pass up.

TLDR: the core of Sylvia and Cyllene's relationship is how it moves from "she is everything I'm not and I'm into that" to "she's actually a lot more like me than I thought and it only makes me love her more." And I'm obsessed with it.

[chancecity]

Rocky

“Life isn’t a tragedy; it’s a comedy! And you know as well as I do, Fi, that the two aren’t all that different.”

THE BASICS:

Gender: Trans Man

Orientation: Bisexual

Pronouns: He/Him

Age Aprox.: Early-Thirties (Younger than Fiona)

Skills: Chemistry, Guitar, Dance, Pyrotechnics

Reviews from People in Their Life:

“Annoying at first, but grows on you. Kind of like a fungus, but if fungus just wouldn’t stop singing and giving you unwarranted advice.” -Fiona, best friend/former nemesis

“Can he please stop smiling at me? It’s freaking me out. Why won’t he stop dancing? There’s not even any music playing?” -Intracloud, vaguely-terrified hero coworker

“Fella knows how to have a good time, that’s for certain. A little more destructive than I’d chose, but it ain’t my place to judge, y’know? ‘Specially when he ain’t judgin’ none in return. …The volume can get a bit much.” -The Coyote, criminal cowboy contact

“Oh, he’s a genius for sure. If he could reign in his attention a little more, he would be unstoppable. Unfortunately, he is also a Dog.” -Sunny, mad scientist buddy/Right-Hand Henchman

Known Locations: The FeelGood Compound (home/lair, an abandoned mall), The Grey Area (local underground bar, frequented by local villains/criminals), various Banks and Large Corporate Headquarters

Basic About:

In a flash of fireworks and a boom of upbeat classic pop and glam rock, a normal outing to work or the bank becomes an involuntary flash mob. Joy is all that fills your head as your muscles respond only to The Beat. Distantly, you can feel and hear people trying to get through, trying to stop this feeling, but all you can do is close your eyes and move to the rhythm. As the dopamine crashes, the music gone and the authorities in a panic to find out what happened, you can only sit and wonder the same thing.

The government isn’t sure what Rocky is or how he manages to create a flash mob wherever he goes as a cover for his escape, but the answer is much more simple than their theories of “a trickster god made mortal” or “the result of yet another vat-related incident”.

Rocky is a chemist, a sort of Musical Mad Scientist who specializes in a homemade concoction he calls “The Beat”. An overwhelming flood of dopamine and endorphins that makes your body respond to rhythm, before ending in harsh lows after it passes (which takes about a half hour).

But recently, he has taken on a slightly different routine: Using his vast connections to the criminal underground network to help the Hero Corps catch a villain that has evaded the knowledge of even their most elite members. It’s something fun, something new, and the idea of seeing the inner workings of a bureaucracy he doesn’t respect just can’t be passed up.

THE PHYSICAL:

Eyes: Grey, Bright yet Slightly Manic

Hair: Sandy Blonde, Long and Full of Product

Height: 6’3” (6’5” in his heels)

Style Favorites: Glam Rock/Metal, though he would wear just about anything from the 70’s-80’s eras of fashion (masc or femme, doesn’t matter to him)

THE VIBES:

Top Song: “Magic Dance”, David Bowie

Voice Headcanon: Alex Brightman (Dewey Finn, “School of Rock: The Musical”)

Themes and Inspiration: Anti-Authoritarianism, Fire, Stars, Escapism, Club Culture, Drugs/Addiction, Rebirth, Signal Highjacking (The Max Headroom Incident)

PERSONALITY: Bombastic, Dramatic, Anti-Authority, Affectionate, Friendly, Energetic, Outgoing, Obsessive, Confident (often Overly), Scientifically Intelligent, Zero sense of boundaries (or occasionally just an active disregard for them), Reckless

Rocky, Normal Human Guy

Despite the government being fairly uncertain of Rocky’s inherent nature he is biologically an average human, just one with a PhD in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

He was raised in the North-Midwestern US by two loving and very sweet parents along with his two older brothers and his younger sister. He had a fairly comfortable middle-class upbringing, but struggled amongst his peers who all didn’t seem to see in him what he saw in himself. They all saw some nerdy loser freak; he saw spotlights, sequins, fireworks, and a screaming crowd.

He got that, in his own way.

[san3mii]

┊i. LOST

┊ Blog Navigation ┊ More┊ ii. Hashira Meeting ┊

Ages of characters: Rengoku Twins + Kanae (18), Sanemi (19)

Like any other day, you take a walk around the estate to pass time. Though, it seems that this day is like no other as you come across something or rather someone you don’t see on a daily basis.

“What the…” You mutter under your breath, brows furrowed in genuine confusion.

Meanwhile, the intruder looks around cluelessly. Said intruder has deep scars covering his whole body, his whole chest littered with more scars wide open for everyone to see. For someone who lives in an era where scars are considered unattractive, he proves it otherwise.

You gotta give it to him. Those scars definitely make him less bland like other men. You are snapped out of your thoughts when he stands tall in front of you, more intimidating compared afar.

“Can I help you?” You raise a brow at him, tone not too friendly with the intruder.

The man merely looks at you, eyes rudely scrutinizing your whole appearance. He memorizes and keeps his gaze on you: messy long red hair that flowed up until your waist with blonde streaks adoring either side of your face. “Damn, you’re all red…” He says while his pale purple orbs look down on you, paying close attention to your gold with red irises eyes, “And weird” He added.

You sneer at his comment, “Like you’re not one yourself.”

He chuckles at your response, “You wanna have a go?” The words uttered by him screams someone who’s too full of himself.

You notice his stance and hand gripping his katana handle, veins prominent at the back of his hand. You bring a hand up to cover your mouth, “Oh did I press the wrong button there?” You say in a mocking apologetic tone.

The man finally unsheathe his katana from its scabbard, “I was gonna ask nicely for a direction but you seem to have another thing in mind.”

“But you’re the one who-” Your words are cut off as soon as you see him charging towards you. Your eyes widened in surprise, ‘Not good,’ You thought.

All of it happens in a matter of seconds, too quick for a commoner to follow. Luckily, your quick reflexes help you dodge the advance and jump back to avoid his blade.

“Now that’s not nice, mister intruder” You cross your arms over your chest, index finger pointing in his direction as if scolding him like a mother would at their child.

“Are you mocking my strength?” He says through gritted teeth.

You shrug your shoulders at him, “Now that I have a closer look, we’re both in the Demon Slayer Corps. Uniforms are the same look,” You say while gesturing at both your clothes, “If I’m not mistaken, this,” You widely gesture at your current situation, “Is against the Corps’ conduct.”

The irritation that boils inside you quickly dissipates as soon as you hear Kanae’s voice in your mind, “Always be kind to others, Y/n” The image of her kind smile that’s infectious to others appears in your mind causing you to curse under your breath.

“Or are you perhaps a new member?” You gasp in realization, “Oh! That must be it!” Your eyes sparkling under the bright sun. “Mister, I can orient you if you want?” You offer with a kind smile.

The intruder instead charges forward and swings his blade at you disregarding all the words you said at him. He breathes out and seathes his katana. “Guess I’ll have to find a way out myself. Like that’s anything new.”

“That’s sad,” Your voice startles the man and slowly looks back at you with his eyes wide open. “Awww you think the bangs suit me?” The man’s gaze slowly moves down to the floor to see blond strands scattered in front of your foot.

Fast… She’s fast.

That’s the only thing that came to his mind. A fact that boggled him in a second.

“What’s your favorite dish?” You ask him with a hand on your hips as if he did not just charge at you. “Kyo told me food brings people closer,” The man remains frozen in his spot, flabbergasted by what happened.

“Oh how rude of me,” Your hand on your chest to pardon yourself to the other, “What’s your name?” Your face is still sporting a smile.

‘Sorry Kanae, he’s getting on my nerves’ You whine in protest.

Finally having enough of the man’s actions, the kind facade drops followed by a deep sigh, “C’mon I’m trying to make everything civil here,” You roll your eyes, foot impatiently tapping against the floor.

“Alright, I’ll call my father to deal with you instead” Your hands drop to your side and begin walking back to the mansion’s main building, “Ugh men I swear. Even had to sacrifice something that distinguishes me as part of the damn family,” You complain under your breath.

The intruder finally replies after minutes of foolishly standing there, “Sanemi,” His voice above whispers.

“What?! Is that some kind of food or something?” Your voice is full of irritation as he successfully got under your skin.

“Shinazugawa Sanemi.”

“Well mister Shinazugawa, if you would be a sweetheart, step off our land this instant,” You say while gesturing at the main gate.

“What are you?” His curiosity got the best of him.

Contemplating whether to answer his question, you just stare at Sanemi for a few seconds before turning your back and continue your walk back to where the shade is.

“Hey! I asked you!” He calls out after you. However, you kept your back turned to him, pretending he’s not there. Afterall, he’s way too rude to be accompanied.

Sanemi clicks his tongue, his frustration just keeps building up. Mimicking your actions, he turns on his heel and walks to where you pointed rather grumpily.

As soon as Misturi makes her presence known, you mask your surprised expression and look at her, “What a cute haircut Y/n-chan!” Her cheery voice fills your ears. You take a deep breath, lips twitching up into a smile, “Does it?” You hesitantly tousle your newly trimmed bangs.

The girl never fails to put a smile on your face even with her little to no effort on cheering you up, the younger just nods in enthusiasm, “Now we’re matching!”

© san3mii, 2022. rb is appreciated. allowing translation and repost on other platform as long as you send an ask first.

[scarareg]

For the AoT ask game:

1, 2, 7, 9, 11, 13, 18, 20, 27, 35 and 40!

1-What was your first impression of the show?

This is funny because I remember starting episode one and something interrupted me so I could not even finish the first scene. Later I tried again and the same happened! Can you believe it?

The third try is when I finally watch it and I remember thinking "We're about to experience a once-in-a-lifetime story, aren't we?" and it was! It was so well written and shocking and the animation was gorgeous,in particular I loved the eyes and the landscapes!!!

The rest is history. I also started the manga as soon as season one finished. Seeing that titan in the wall was shocking and I wanted more of Eren and the gang!

2-What did you think was in the basement?

I didn't have idea! I was like "I'm just here for the ride" but because I thought that there were humans behind the titans (because of Annie),maybe a villain organization or something similar and that they created and/or controlled the titans,so in the basement Grisha would spill the beans,that maybe he worked for them but no longer wanted and was trying to stop them and that's why he made Eren a titan holder and he would tell us some of the members of this organization (not everyone because that would be boring,we need mistery) including who are the Armored and Colossal titans

Kinda a good guess it seems ,but way out of base at the same time

7-Favorite season?

Final season part 2. I love how far out babies have come,especially Gabi. The Rumbling and the plot twist are the best so far and MAPPA has done an incredible job and I am so grateful with them for that!

9-Do you own any AOT Merch?

Yes! The Survey Corps cape,the manga 2nd & 3rd volumes I guess and a Survey Corps necklace. I want the nendoroids of everyone and Eren's key

11-In your opinion, who had the greatest glow up?

This one is hard because everyone look like models! maybe is bias but I pick Eren. He has always been so good looking and his eyes are WFDGSGDVFEGVFG but now his long hair is the cherry on the cake!

If not him, Mikasa! she is so damn pretty!

13-One thing you’d change about the story?

The only thing would be to see more of the War Hammer titan. It has such an incredible design and ability that is kinda sad that Eren did nothing with it.

18-Favorite op?

Jiyuu No Tsubasa,op 2! The animation is gorgeous ,love how the credits move along the 3d maneuver gear ,the foreshadowing to Annie,Reiner and Bert,and the song is great af,lift my spirit!

20-What was the hardest death for you?

Between Sasha and Hange,I cried hard af with both,like if a real life friend died. When the episode of Sasha's death was going to premier,I stood in front of the mirror like Eren and said " you are not going to cry again" and then I proceeded to cry XD

27-Who would you hate irl?

The obvious answer,Floch. Fuck that guy! The not-so-obvious answer is Annie and Eren,him specifically in his hobo era. I would not hate them but I think they would seem pretty unnaprochable and intimidating

35-Is there a character you really see yourself in? Why?

Maybe you would not like the answer but Armin! my soulmate. Maybe because I grew up with him, he has influenced my personality a lot, like being a pacifist, always trying to be empathetic and seeing all sides of an argument/problem, valuing intelligence. We are both underestimated by our appearance and we both make plans to get what we want.

40-How did you originally think the show would end?

Because I thought there was a villian organization,I thought they would defeat them and kill all the titans. I had a scene in my mind,now in retrospect it sounds very naive,but I imagined that the last panel would be Eren and Armin (and maybe Mikasa) finally in peace,in front of the ocean resting and happy *cries*

Thank you very much my dear! Was really,really fun to recall things of ten years ago!💕

[thatsastepladder]

So one of my favorite random bits of Marvel trivia revolves around the obscure character known as Cloud, from J.M. DeMatteis's run on The New Defenders.

They're a sentient nebula who took the form of a pair of teens who they accidentally injured upon their arrival to Earth. Cloud started off preferring the female form of Carol Faber, developing the specific intentions of being in a form that Bobby Drake - Iceman - was compatible with as the two began to fall in love. But, at the same time, Cloud was also falling for Heather Douglas, Moondragon, and took Danny Milligan's male form to better suit that relationship.

Comic shenanigans happened that later led to Cloud returning to space and being exiled to Comic Book Limbo for thirty-plus years before showing up again in Al Ewing's Defenders miniseries.

A decade-plus after Cloud's last appearance, Moondragon would become a regular supporting cast member in Peter David's Captain Marvel run, focusing on the son of Mar-Vell, Genis-Vell and the human he'd been cosmically bound to, former Hulk and Captain America supporting player Rick Jones.

In that run, it's revealed that Rick's wife, Marlo Chandler began cheating on him with Moondragon, and that Moondragon was, in fact, a lesbian (or at the very least bisexual, given her prior attractions to Cloud's male form and Quasar):

Similarly, another decade afterwards in Brian Michael Bendis's All-New X-Men, the time-displaced teenage Iceman is forcibly outed as gay by his similarly time-displaced teammate Jean Grey. Witness, an amazing example of reused art in Bendis comics!

This change would translate onto the older version of the character (both coexisted at the time because of timey-wimey reasons) and would eventually turn him into a walking stereotype in the Krakoa era, but that's neither here nor there at the moment.

(seriously, will someone remember that Bobby's a CPA and get him a job at X-Corp? or at least give him personality traits other than being a Queer Eye reject?)

In light of these reveals, I find Cloud's storyline to be unintentionally hilarious, as they were taking the exact opposite form from what their romantic interests would eventually prefer. Poor nebula just wanted to find love...

[alchemisoul]

Blurry Gems from Memorable Shows in The Holy City Circa the Blackberry Era

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes

North Charleston Peforming Arts Center

(September 29th, 2012)

Fantastic live show. My best friend's wife wanted to do this for her birthday and I was happy to have my friends from home in town together for what I anticipated would be a good show, but a good night regardless. It was so much better than just good, they were fucking fantastic and I feel fortunate to have seen them on one of, if not the last tour, before Jade was outed from the group.

Phish

North Charleston Auditorium

(October 15th & 16th, 2010)

I never fully got them until I got them, until I saw them, two nights in a row, for the first time while surrounded by dozens of my friends.

The band's return to Charleston marked the end of a near 15 year ban placed against them following incidents occurring the last time that were in the area, and after seeing them two dozen or so timew since, they remain among if not my favorite shows.

It was all killer, no filler. And because they have high definition recordings of every show, that you can redeem for free with your ticket, I can relive those nights forever.

STS9

The Music Farm, Dowtown Charleston

(03/20/13)

I saw them for the first time in 2006, it was the first time I ever rolled on E, on the night I was officially done with my active duty enlistment in the Marine Corps - which happened to be my homegirl's birthday. We had a strllar crew en tow and I had never heard electronicesque music played in an instrumental, improvisational way with a full legit band.

As an avid fan of music, and very capable musician, I kept up with music as much as I could while I was gone - but what they did and do was beyond my capacity to absorb initially, what I was hearing for the first time - I was floored by how floored I was, that such a genre of music even existed. It was technical, melodic, and cerebral. It was beautiful.

Aside from The Disco Buscuits, and before Pretty Lights converted to flaunting a full live band for shows, this was very much ahead of its time to hear that sort of music played by an ensemble in such a way.

I rolled my balls off, and after a lot of time spent in dangerous places in various deserts, it was unbelievably therapeutic to end my enlistment with my people on my own terms in that way.

This show was my second or third time seeing them, and went to see them up Asheville that same week as well - it was one of the last tours before David Murphy (bassist, founding member, and leader in my ways) departed. At the time it seemed uncertain what their future would hold, but goddamn if Alana Rocklin isn't every bit the master that Murphy was on bass and they never lost a step.

They're never not, always killer. To be a a couple minutes walk away from a show like this was one of the many endearing perks of living downtown in an amazing city like Charleston. I loved every second of the seven years I lived there. It's a little too much for me now, too boozy, and expensive- but godamn I loved it when I lived there. The City was lit af whenever Sound Tribe Sector Nine were in town.

[stanandcharleyandfriends]

Eileen Nagle sees her family in video chats and drive-by visits, but that hasn’t made up for the lack of warm hugs in the nine months since the pandemic led her nursing home to shut its doors to visitors.

Enter Zeus.

“Zeus is a friendly little snowball, very happy,” said Nagle, 79, after the peppy bichon frise paid a visit to her room at Hebrew Home at Riverdale, overlooking the Hudson River in the Bronx. “Petting and playing with the dogs breaks up the day and gets you to forget about yourself for a while.”

Hebrew Home has had a pet therapy program for 20 years; tiny Zeus and gentle giant Marley the Great Dane are the current snugglers in residence. Now, the activities department is expanding the canine corps with two new recruits in training to give residents more of the affectionate physical contact that has become so scarce and precious in the coronavirus era.

“It’s uplifting to have Zeus come and visit me, especially with COVID and being restricted to my room,” said 80-year-old Jeff Philipson, beaming as he ran his fingers through Zeus’ silky white fur while the dog clambered on his bed. “I talk on the phone every day with my daughter and my son, but that’s as good as it can get for now.”

When the pandemic lockdown began in March, dog therapy was suspended along with most other activities at the nursing home.

“I decided we needed to re-energize the pet visiting program since there’s no outside visitation allowed,” said Daniel Reingold, founder of the pet therapy program and president and CEO of RiverSpring Health, nonprofit operator of 103-year-old Hebrew Home. “They’ve been on the floors bringing happiness and unconditional love to residents and staff alike.”

The dogs belong to staff members who bring them to work every day. But the program doesn’t allow just any dog.

“It has to be a combination of the right owner, right dog and right temperament,” said Reingold, whose own rescue dog, Kida, is one of the new recruits. “The dogs have to be assessed, follow basic commands and be able to cope with wheelchairs, elevators, medication carts and all the other things they’ll encounter on a floor.”

Cats are also used in the pet therapy program — but only robotic ones. Hebrew Home has numerous lifelike animatronic cats that purr and meow as residents hold them in their laps and stroke their fur. “The cats are especially soothing to people with dementia,” said Catherine Farrell, director of therapeutic activities, primary dog handler and owner of Marley.

“The love of an animal is incredible,” Farrell said. “It releases endorphins, reduces blood pressure, reduces anxiety. For people here who had animals in their life history, seeing dogs triggers memories and opens communication.”

While Farrell has to remain 6 feet away from residents and wear a face mask and plastic shield, Marley can plop his head on their beds as they pet him.

“To break through the social distancing barrier is really important,” Farrell said. “It’s one of the only ways they’re able to touch another living being and gain satisfaction from that physical connection.”

But it’s not just about petting a dog, said Olivia Cohen, dog handler and assistant director of the therapeutic activities program. For some residents, the interaction can break down barriers and open communication and emotional expression, she said.

Cohen recalls one woman who was struggling with anxiety and having trouble coping with the new environment when she moved into the home. “Nothing would get through to her to help her,” Cohen said. “But when I brought the dog to her, her complete affect changed from crying to having her face light up and telling stories about her own experiences.”

For resident Elizabeth Pagan, dog visits are a welcome respite from the isolation she has endured since she’s been restricted to FaceTime visits with her children, grandchildren and terrier-dachshund mix Ruby.

“It means a lot to me, makes me feel good when I pet the dogs,” said Pagan, who’s recovering from a stroke. “My favorite is Marley. He gives me a lot of comfort.”

[dategetmy802]

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Why the f*ck did I decide this was a good idea?

Well, to be fair, I didn’t.

When Sheena suggested going speed dating, it’s not like I leaped at the idea. I thought of the whole thing as very old-school and riddled with horny old men.

Besides, I already had Tinder for awkward one-liners and terrible pickup lines. I was starting to think the night would have been better curled up in bed with my dog, tea and 'Game of Thrones.'

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Several men had already gathered outside the bar where we were supposed to meet, an unremarkable Irish pub in the Financial District. A couple of Russian women were talking about their plans to get green cards out of the night.

That's a starter, I thought. At least the women will be just as sad as the men.

Before the official speed dating began, we began chatting with two men wearing business casual. They introduced themselves as Samuel* and Camden*.

Camden, who was Australian, made a beeline for Sheena. I talked to Samuel, but his gaze kept flitting around the rest of the bar, as if he were scanning for other prospects.

I couldn't believe he was rude enough to make his boredom known. I also can’t remember the last time I finished an entire glass of wine that quickly.

Speed dating is either a fantastic idea or a terrible one. If you don’t have the balls to approach men at a bar (or if you don’t have the patience to wait it out until they do), this is a sure-fire way to buy five minutes with any man in the room.

On the flip side, there’s nothing quite like speed dating to make you realize just how long five minutes can be.

When seven o'clock struck, we began settling in booths and tables that had been set aside for us. Women stayed in the same seats throughout the night, and the men moved counter-clockwise. It felt a little like musical chairs, and I was betting that most of us would strike out.

My first real “date” was a man named Reggie*. He was obviously the oldest man in the room and clearly way over the 30-something age cap. In fact, I’d be surprised if he wasn’t in his 50s. Sir, why are you still here? Why can't you follow instructions? This is why you're single, Reggie.

Every exchange felt like an interview, so I started using an interview format with the men I didn't particularly like. I found myself asking different men the same questions:

“Is this your first time?'

“What do you do?'

“Do you have any hobbies?'

“Are you originally from New York?'

After a few forgettable dates, I met Tom*, who handed me a rose and shook my hand. There was just something so try-hard about this that it was hard not burst out laughing.

Seriously -- this guy bought an entire bouquet of roses so that he could sweeten up his predictably mundane dates. He also took notes, like an overeager kid sitting in the front row in class.

No one likes a teacher’s pet, Tom.

Vishnu* followed. Poor Vishnu. He was short, and he spoke in such a soft, thick accent that I had to ask him to repeat himself after almost every sentence. His palms were visibly sweaty. I felt so bad for him that I almost wanted us to be a match.

Mitch* was the only one who truly irritated me. He could have been attractive -- with his dark complexion and his broody eyes -- if only he didn’t tell me to “be calm in (his) presence” after I mentioned that I was tired from work.

People like this exist, ladies, and they’re hiding in plain sight, waiting to pounce on your unsuspecting, single ass.

Ricky* gave me his phone number after our conversation (illegal in speed dating). “I don’t care about the rules,” he said.

The fact that I have dogs was more than enough to get his engine revved. He had a farm -- a f*cking farm -- and was looking for someone to help run it. I mean, there's a great pickup line on its own: 'Hey, girl, want to run my farm with me?'

Let's be honest -- I probably would have said yes.

I can’t remember the next guy’s name — Paul? David? Ellis? — but our exchange was memorable enough to make my night.

I asked him a simple enough question: 'So, what are your hobbies? What do you like to do for fun?'

He responded with a typical list: hanging out with friends, the gym. Oh, and traveling. He loved to travel. Emphasis on travel.

The most rational follow-up question to this declaration was where his favorite places were to jet off to. He responded back, in total seriousness: “Florida. I love Florida. I’ve been to all the theme parks.'

I was waiting for a follow-up, a “just kidding. I’ve been to Timbuktu, and it changed my life,” but none came. He really f*cking loved Florida.

“Have you been anywhere else besides Florida?” I asked, hoping for a way to salvage this conversation.

He looked back at me meekly. “No. Just Florida. Well, I’ve been to Jersey, if that counts.'

By the time Sheena and I left (with Ricky and Samuel hot on our trail), I was horrified.

This was dating these days? Had we come to this -- to treating matchmaking like job interviews, with the same asinine questions and even more asinine answers?

I used to make fun of the girls who turned their noses up at everyone and thought they were too good for dating. But I slowly felt myself becoming one of them.

It took a few hours for the guilt to hit me.

In making fun of the try-hard Vishnu or old-fashioned Reggie, I realized I was acting like a majorly stuck-up bitch. Many of the men I met that night were simply too busy to meet women organically, like at work or a party.

Who am I to judge? I thought. I basically live my life on dating apps, and who’s to say those are any better?

Ricky texted me the next day, all smiles and excitement. I still haven’t responded. I mean, I'm not sure I want to run off and start my farm family with him.

I think I’ll still try my luck on Tinder.

*Name has been changed.

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[lemongogo]

hey! i follow u w bnha and i just enjoy ur kny posts and emotion, but could u explain the like "end all"? like I saw u say like theyre dead rn in this future and some ppl r married, but like whats the final group pic of them all? just like the last time were together or r demons like not a thing anymore lmfao i have no reference (ofc only if u feel like answerin! i can just look it up i just like to hear u talk abt the anime u like it is some relatable content my dude

hi !!! omg thank u for the sweet msg, talking about kny makes me so happy AAFKDSF!! u are so nice !!!! aa !!

but YEAH !! so the previous chapter (ch 204) pretty much ended the story for our main cast back in the taisho era (1912-1926 timeframe). at this point, the world is free of demons (except for one demon named yushiro !! he was the healer during the final battle and continues living to paint portraits of tamayo, his mentor. i think hes so funny) and the demon slayer corps officially retires/disbands. 

so yeah !! the group pic you see at the end is of all the surviving members before they part ways for the last time!! :””) its so cute AA i love them all so much

theres not a lot of narration about what happens to most of them (such as uzui and his wives, the ubuyashiki family, kiyo, sumi, naho, etc.) but we end the chapter with nezuko, tanjiro, inosuke, and zenitsu going home together and then fast forwarding like 100 years in the future to current day japan. its implied a few of the characters eventually got married and started families (tanjiro/kanao, inosuke/aoi, etc), so ch.205 introduces their descendants and gives us cute little shots of the og cast as reincarnated versions of themselves. the picture we see above seems to be passed down in the kamado household alongside the hanafuda earrings tanjiro wore AA ;_; i think zenitsu’s great grandson even has an autobiography of his time as a slayer SKSKF but his sister (?) refers to it as science fiction so im not sure if too many people recognize the demon-slayer history or what (or if its just a play on zenitsu’s fantastical character AHAH)

but its such a nice epilogue to end the story on ! like even though we went thru all that suffering and watched beloved characters die left and right, they’re finally allowed to live the happy little lives theyve yearned for. like obanai and mitsuri made a promise before they died to get married in another life and THEY DID !!!!!!!! AAAA they’re married now !! and own a shop together !! im so happy for them .. i love them so much, its what they deserve

there are references to quite a few characters , but here are some of the most notable ones / my favorites :3c :

rengoku as sumihiko’s (tanjiro’s great grandson’s) school friend

uzui as a popular gymnast  

makomo, sabito, and giyuu as friends !!!!!!!! WHICH !! KJDSNFKSD WARMS MY HEART !! i dont remember if makomo was apart of the same final selection that giyuu and sabito were, but they’re all linked through their mentor, urokodaki, and u can see that through the little objects theyre holding . im glad the three of them are together again aa :”(

AND THEN SANEMI AND GENYA AS COPS KAJSKAKJAK they’re so fucking chaotic i love them

there are a lot more that i havent touched on (i believe kiriya of the ubuyashiki family is the oldest living person @ this point- cool retribution for having their bloodline shortened for centuries. cameos of shinobu, kanae, etc !! woo !!) but its just so sweet and i love this chapter so much . its so silly and fun , i love seeing their faces again. it wouldve been so cool to see some of the demons reincarnated (as their human selves) but i figure maybe them going to hell prevents it or something. or gotouge just didnt have time or space SFSDFKSD

sry for making this longer than it had to be btu i love talking abt them so mcihUSHGSfss. but yeah u got it !! its the last pic the surviving group took together before they went their separate ways. they all lived their lives and then the chapter fast forwards like 100 yrs into the future where this story is just a distant memory 😔😔 th end

[kkachi95]

New canon information from The Rise of Kyoshi

Alright, so I’m little bit over 42% through The Rise of Kyoshi and I’m HOOKED.

This book does a lot of worldbuilding and the new characters are well-developed.

I’ll be consolidating new information I find from this book on this post. I’ll keep updating the list as I progress through the book!

SPOILERS, obviously

1) KYOSHI

Kyoshi was abandoned as a child by her parents, who were leaders of an underground criminal organization.

Her mother was a rogue airbender hailing from the Eastern Air Temple. Yep, you heard it right, Kyoshi is half air nomad. Her mother apparently became a master at young age and fell in love with Kyoshi’s father, an outlaw, while traveling. Kyoshi’s mother modified her arrow tattoo into a serpent and her airbending ability lost its power due to her attachment to worldly concerns. She compensated with a pair of fans, which Kyoshi inherited.

Kyoshi’s father is from a family lineage that traces back to Royal Theater School in Ba Sing Se. Kyoshi inherited her make up and headdress from him.

Kyoshi was very tall even in her young age. In her teenage years, she is constantly described with terms like “giant,” “massive,” and “towering.” Since she’s taller than most men, I’m going to assume she’s at least 6 ft.

She spent her early childhood as a street urchin in Yokoya and was neglected by the villagers until she was discovered and taken under the care of an air nomad named Kelsang, who was a companion of Avatar Roku. She was, and still is relentlessly bullied by other children in Yokoya.

Kyoshi is initially very shy, non-confrontational, has very low self esteem, and inept at earthbending. Kyoshi is extremely strong for her age as she lifts a man by his neck without any trouble. Also, she has distinct freckles!

She is an extreme clean freak with a constant urge to “maintain order and minimize clutter." She starts out as a serveant assigned to clean up after the (misidentified) Avatar.

I believe Kyoshi is 16+ years old in this story.

Kyoshi’s outfit has chailmain armor underneath it, and she started wearing gloves after suffering major lightning wound on her hands.

2) KYOSHI’S COMPANIONS

As a teenager, Kyoshi has two friends: Yun and Rangi, who are both her age. I won’t go too much into their plot.

Yun is the ‘misidentified’ Earthbending Avatar who is a former street urchin. He is said to be handsome, playful and flirty. He has brown hair and jade green eyes.

He is extremely talented in earthbending and is loved by everyone. He ships Kyoshi and Rangi but also flirts with Kyoshi too (and basically everyone)

He was discovered ‘late’ as the Avatar and genuinely wants to do his best as the new Avatar.

Rangi is a Fire Nation noble girl who is sworn and honor bound to serve as the Avatar’s bodyguard. She is military-trained in the Fire Army Junior Corps. She is intimidating and hot-headed, but also very protective of her friends.

She is said to be beautiful, with delicate skin, porcelain doll face and jet black hair. She has a “charred rasp” voice and “dark bronze” eyes.

She is the "straight man" character of Kyoshi's entourage and takes things very seriously, but she's also the unintentionally funniest character of the group. She eventually becomes Kyoshi's swon bodyguard and depite her best judgement, she's dragged into many questionable situations by Kyoshi. Rangi is definitely my favorite new character. Think of her as a more sane, less murder-y version of Azula.

Her nickname: topknot, hairpins, and hotwoman

Rangi’s mother, Hei-Ran, was a companion of Avatar Kuruk, who gave up her commission in the Fire Nation Army, then later her position as headmistress in the Royal Fire Academy for Girls, to teach the Avatar. Hei-Ran and Rangi are said to be spitting image of each other.

Kyoshi is romantically attraced to both Yun and Rangi.

Kirima is a young female waterbender from the outlaw group Kyoshi’s parents founded.

She has wolf-like features and piercing blue eyes. Kirima is also said to be lithe and light on her feet.

She’s easy-going and likes to tease people, especially Rangi.

Wong is a huge male earthbender in his 30s from the outlaw group Kyoshi’s parents founded.

He is very tall, thick, and has smooth, clean shaven face. He has a very prominent protruding gut and isn’t the most loquacious type.

Lek is the youngest male Earthbender member of the group and is said to be 14-15.

He is from the Si Wong desert and was brought into the group by Kyoshi’s parents, whom he thinks very highly of. This caused Kyoshi to resent him initially.

He values his family and likes to tease other people just like Kirima. Lek has very precise control of small earth projectiles, which he uses as bullets.

Lao Ge is an old, mysterious Earthbending assassin who is said to be hundreds of years old. He pretends to be a drunken fool and only Kyoshi knows of his true identity.

He travels with the group and goes off on his own to kill people he deem unworthy of living. Kyoshi asks him to be her Sifu.

3) THE AVATAR CYCLE

Avatar Kuruk died at the age of 33. He was said to be one of the greatest Pai Sho players in history and a highly-skilled bender, but lacked leadership and diplomatic skills. He spent his time traveling around the four nation seeking pleasure. He was also one of the best hunters to have ever lived.

Two of Avatar Yangchen’s friends and teachers died protecting her from the enemy.

Each nation has its own way of discovering the Avatar and identifying a toddler’s ability to bend

Being the Avatar’s companion was considered to be an honor beyond reckoning that only few got to experience. Those who taught the Avatar held massive influence over the world.

Period between the death of the previous Avatar and discovery of his/her successor is often filled with political turmoil. The Rise of Kyoshi is set in a politically turbulent time as Kuruk died in young age and the new Avatar was discovered much later than usual. This led to the rise of many opportunist criminal factions.

4) BENDING

Unlike the show, bending is openly depicted as being LETHAL in this book. People are impaled, burned, crushed, buried, sliced, and so on.

Seismic sense is a skill shared by all earthbenders, not just Toph. Most people’s skills are extremely rudimentary, though.

‘Dust stepping’ and ‘mist stepping’ are abilities practiced by certain earth and waterbenders to create floating platforms that move with them, which allow them to run through thin air. Rangi mimics this move with firebending after having witnessed it.

Firebenders have naturally warm bodies and they can project heat, which allows them to do things like increasing a room’s temperature by several degrees.

Firebenders' "inner fire" allow them to resist poison.

People in the Fire Nation identify bending ability of their children by placing a bowl full of highly-flammable materials to see if their children can resonate with it. This is done as early as possible to prevent accidental fires as young children don't have good control over their flames.

Lightning bending is a skill so rare that people thought it of it as a folktale or a long lost knowledge. Barely any living witnesses who can confirm its existence exists.

Airbender are seemingly immune to the weather.

5) EARTH KINGDOM

Earth Kingdom is highly fragmented and has multiple kings. This is attributed to Ba Sing Se’s failure or unwillingness to actively assert control over the continent. 

Bandits and pirates plague the countryside. Small settlements and towns have to form militias and fend for themselves as the official Earth Kingdom military seems to neglect their plight.   

Earth Kingdom’s Northern and Southern dialect are said to be so different that they might as well be different language. People of the Si Wong Desert barely share any culture or custom with rest of the Earth Kingdom.

Beifongs were known for their wealth even in this era.

Kyoshi Island was originally known as Yokoya. Farming yields little and people scrape by to meet end’s meet. People here are said to wear blue clothes despite their earth kingdom heritage. Kyoshi was left here as a child and initially grew up as a street urchin because the villagers neglected her for being an outsider.

6) FIRE NATION

Apparently, firebenders are notorious for always talking about honor.

Fire Nation was involved in a conflict with the Earth Kindom in the distant (?) past.

Fire Navy is the most capable Navy in the world.

Royal Fire Nation Academy for Girl holds Agni Kais and there are many “accidental” kills.

Firebending instructors used to maim their students for insubordination.

Hair is heavily linked with honor. Losers of Agni Kai would shave parts of their head bald as sign of humility but would leave the top knot alone since it’s considered sacred. It was never touched except in circumstances akin to death.

7) WATER TRIBES

The Souther Water tribe is said to be poor, undeveloped, and vulnerable. It’s significantly behind the rest of the world in terms of development. Southern Water Tribe doesn’t have a legitimate Navy because it doesn’t have trees necessary for shipbuilding. It is a peaceful nation, though it is involved in a territorial dispute over an island with the Earth Kingdom. It’s ruled by multiple chieftains.

“Tui’s gills!” - Water Tribe equivalent of ‘Oh my god’

8) AIR NOMADS

Air nomads are regarded with great respect and reverence for their wisdom and spirituality.

Head nomad of an air temple is referred to as an Abbot.

9) DAOFEI (BANDITS)

Daofei plays a huge role in the story. A vast underground criminal scoiety with its own code of honor run deeply throughout the Earth Kingdom, which is "too big to police" for the Earth Kingdom Army. 

As mentioned earlier, Kyoshi's parents were leaders of a prominent Daofei group and Kyoshi herself officially swears her Daofei vows to learn bending skills from her parents' old colleagues. Kyoshi absolutely despises Daofei, though.

Several years before the novel’s start, these bandits staged what is known as the Yellow Neck Rebellion, which is an analogue of the Yellow Turban Rebellion (184–205 AD) during Han Dynasty China. In real life, the rebellion led to the tumultuous time period known as the Three Kingdoms Period, where various warlords fought over control of China.

[becomewings]

Archived Network Event

2020 Secret Bunny Exchange

hai lovely! Im sparkle and I’m going to be your secret bunny. I hope you’re having a good day or night. 🥰 -sparkle ✨💫

Hello Sparkle dear! Thank you for being my secret bunny. I hope you are having a good day/night too and enjoying this wonderful comeback.

I’m enjoying it too! It’s such a good comeback, and I honestly love it. This is like my second comeback with them. -sparkle 💫✨

This is my first comeback, eek! I was not at all prepared for how much I would be waiting on the edge of my seat, but it's been really exciting!

Yes! It's such a good comeback honestly. When did you first get into BTS? What drew you to them? I'm sorry I'm asking for many questions. Lol. -sparkle 💫✨

It's okay, ask away! ^^ I stumbled across BTS by accident...which may indicate just how much I live under a cultural rock. I actually don't usually listen to much pop music. I'm a classically trained composer and video game soundtracks and moody indie/rock are more my jam, but last year I heard the YouTube ad that uses part of DNA and it intrigued me. I didn't know which song it was so I ended up listening through quite a bit before finding it...and fell absolutely in love along the way! So I have a soft spot in my heart for DNA. How about you, Sparkle? What got you into BTS?

So first, I hope you're having a too day/night! It's been a very long and busy one for me. I'm so glad to be off. Alsooo, I've been into Kpop for around 10 years now, so I've always enjoyed and I have a soft spot for 2nd gen kpop groups. When BTS started to get popular I didn't like them at first. But I saw Dope after the FBE channel reacted to them and I'm like okay they seem interesting around 2018. Lol. And I went down the hole, and have been stuck since. Lol. They're amazing. -sparkle 💫✨

Thank you Sparkle, hope you enjoy your evening off! Mine was busy too (we’re prepping for a move, eep) but at least it was productive. Wow, you’ve been into Kpop for a long time! Dope is really catchy (and I love that honky sax haha), I’m not surprised it got you interested and then hooked. :) Do you have a favorite era? Mine is probablyyy Wings, but I love most of Love Yourself too, and HYYH is so wonderfully nostalgic even if I wasn’t a fan then... and I’m a big fan of this new era too

Moving sucks! I'm going to be moving in the next year or so, and I"m not read for it. And yes! I've been into it for so long. But HYYH is one of my favorites as well. I think mine may be LY because that was the era that I started stanning them. I forget which one, but it's the one with idol as their title song. Wings is super amazing, and one of those that I'll always listen to. MOTS is just GOD TIER. Lol. I love it. -sparkle 💫✨

Haha MoTS being god tier is accurate xD Sounds like your move is a little ways off, but I wish you the best of luck when it happens! Ours is on a fairly tight deadline so I really have to hustle this weekend with house preparations (we still need to sell ours). I hope you have a lovely weekend, dear Sparkle! 💫

It is a little ways off, but moving just sucks in general. The packing and unpacking and then trying to get everything ready. Especially in your case. But I hope everything works out for you. And I hope you have a beautiful weekend too. -sparkle 💫✨

Thank you, Sparkle! We made a lot of progress today so I feel a bit better (and extremely tired). When the time comes, I hope you have the opportunity to prepare ahead for your move so it doesn't stress you too much. :) Have a nice start to your week! ✨

Heyyy! It's me sparkle! It's been alright so far, let's how it stays that way. And I'm glad you've made more progress on your move! Hopefully your Monday was good. -sparkle 💫✨

Thank you, Sparkle! There's so much going on in the world right now, close to home and far away... I am trying to stay calm and positive, with varying degrees of success. Please take care of yourself! (And that goes to everyone... I know it is difficult because we all have our own obligations to school, work, family, etc., but please try to prioritize your health and stay safe 💜)

Yes! I hope you’re staying safe. I don’t know what area of the world you live in and I know the virus is hitting others harder than most. We have 8 reported cases here. And it’s a scary to me. I hope you are staying safe. I just said that twice. Lol. Happy Thursday! -sparkle ✨💫

Thank you, you too! I live in the US (California, to be somewhat specific) and so far there have been two confirmed cases in my county. I'm grateful the university I work at is (finally) taking precautionary measures by banning large gatherings and moving classes temporarily online, and that I can continue working unless there is a full campus closure... Trying not to be too anxious about things that are simply out of my control and hoping that things gradually work out and improve. I'm also grateful for the community here, even if I don't know anyone personally, it is nice to come online and see people being reassuring and encouraging to each other from all across the globe.

Music and BTS are a good distraction when needed... Now that their promotional period is done, do you have a favorite moment?

I'll repeat you too, please stay safe dear, you and everyone who happens to read this 💜

I truly wish that my job would take some measures, and they have yet. I work with the general public a lot as a secretary. So it's like seriously having me on edge. I know the schools year have temporally closed down and moving things to online since it was spring break here. As well as the public schools closing for a month. Honestly, I'm not sure if I have a favorite moment honestly. Lol. They were all good moments, but I did quite enjoy watching all the ON performances. What about you?

I truly hope your employer catches on soon and makes accommodations so that you can practice some social distancing and have a safe work environment. We were just informed today that we have to work from home two days next week, on rotation, to keep our department staffed but also reduce the number of people on the floor -- for next week only so far, but I won’t be surprised if it continues past that. I can’t fulfill all of my responsibilities from home, so I’m grateful that they are allowing us to complete online trainings and such in the meantime. I am also so glad it’s Friday. What a week it’s been.

Ahh, I love ON! As a former member of drumline and marching band, I have such a fondness for the drum corps elements they incorporated into the music and background choreography. I was excited for the Official MV version too, so beautiful and thought-provoking! I also looove Black Swan (JIMIN’S DANCING EEK). I haven’t been as excited about something in a long time as when I stayed up late to catch their first performance on James Corden. So while I’ve enjoyed all of the comeback (especially as it’s my first!), that was particularly memorable for me. The surprise MV drop was also lovely 🦢🖤

Sorry, I am really rambly tonight. Please take care and have a good weekend! Hope you can get lots of rest! 💗

It’s been a long couple days! Sorry I haven’t gotten back with you! I’ve been stressed about everything going on, and I do hope that they catch on soon too. I was very excited for this comeback and the art in their videos has been beautiful. Black Swan and Jimin dance break? Quality content honestly. Yes! The surprise MV was great. I prefer this version of Black Swan over the other, but both are good. I hope you had a good weekend! -sparkle 💫✨

Hi again Sparkle, thank you for checking in on me! Please don't apologize for messaging delays, there's no need! We all signed up for this event long before any of this started, so I'm grateful you can spare a little time to chat with me. 💜 I'm working from home for at least the next 3 weeks because my uni is now fully closed... But I'm very grateful I have that opportunity. (As much as sometimes I would just like to go to sleep and wake up when this is all over, hah!)

Please continue to take care of yourself! Hope you find some comfort in music or other personal hobbies!

How are you doing? Last week was so stressful for me. So I am quite happy to be working from home this week. I hope you are staying healthy and happy through all of this! How was your week last week? I hope your weekend was alright? I had a pretty decent one me and a couple close friends had game night, and that was the highlight of my weekend. -sparkle 💫✨

I missed hearing from you, Sparkle! (But totally understand, the world is upside down right now.) I’m sorry you had a stressful week and I hope this one is better for you as you transition to working from home. My days have just fluctuated between quiet/boring and a little stressful (mostly re: house stuff, but that’s out of my control at this point), but I suppose I’m glad it hasn’t been worse than that.

Ooh what are your favorite games?? I’ve been trying to keep up creative side work between writing and blog content, but… I might purchase Animal Crossing soon hehe. Do you have any other hobbies to help distract you from stress/everything that’s going on? Take care dear! 💗

I know! I let time get away from me honestly! I hadn't been meaning too. I miss talking to you! I love all kind of games. I'm not particularly picky, but i do like that Game of LIfe. I've had just about ever version they've made. We played this one called Blockbuster in reference to movies and it was fun because if you know a lot of movies it's somewhat easy but you have to act out some of hte titles. Lol. Animal crossing seems like fun, everyone talks about it. Lol. -sparkle 💫✨ 1/2

I’ve never played it before. I’ve been thinking of getting an Nintendo Switch, but I don’t know how often I would play it. I know that game comes on there. But I heard it’s also an app? I’m not entirely sure. Lol. Also, I’m planning on making you a gif set for the secret bunny exchange! I know you said you love Jimin (my bias wrecker and sweet baby), Kookie, and Tae. And you were right, it’s hard to pick just ONE. Is there any particular one you want to see in a gif set? -sparkle 💫✨ 2/2

Receiving messages from you makes me happy! ^^ I know life is strange right now though so completely understand if you don’t have time. I’ll be patiently waiting!

So you like tabletop games? Sounds fun! I gravitate toward video games more personally, but haven’t had too much time lately to play. There are definitely fun ones to try if you ever get a Switch! There’s Breath of the Wild of course, which I admit I am still holding off on finishing because I don’t want it to be over LOL, some Mario & friends party games if that’s your jam, as well as some really beautiful indie games (Gris for example!). ANYWAY I won’t ramble about that anymore haha. I’m not sure what the app is, if you were referring to Animal Crossing–might be a companion to the game? I saw a tweet referring to using an app for quicker messaging in AC lol, but I haven’t played the game myself yet. 

Aw thank you so much for asking about the gift (and for making it in the future)!! Oh dear you want ME to pick one? If I’m honest, I think Jimin and Tae light up my heart the absolute most (any vmin content gives me life but totally understand if that’s not your thing) but… please don’t ask me to… choose between them HAHA. How about you go with whoever would give you the most joy to gif right now?? I will truly be happy to receive any gift from you, regardless of who is featured. :’)) thank you dear!! 

(Edit: btw who is your bias??)

I love tabletop games, and I play a lot of video games too. So don't get me wrong, I am huge into video games, but I don't play them as often. my boyfriend uses his PS4 all the time. I'm still trying to get through SpiderMan, but that's also because I don't wanna end it. I'm almost finished though. And yes! It's so hard to choose just one honestly, so I get your dilemma. And I can do vmin content! I don't gif them much and I want too. I can't wait to work on something for you! -sparkle 💫✨

Yay!! Sounds like we might have that in common. I have a huge appreciation for video games (and video game soundtracks is one of my favorite ‘genres’ of music, recognizing that they’re incredibly diverse of course), but I spend more time watching videos of other people playing them than playing them myself haha. We have a PS4 too. SpiderMan looked fun but I never tried it! I loved watching my partner play FFXV and Death Stranding. Trying to remember what I’ve actually finished on PS4, it’s been awhile lol... Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture and Rime were beautiful. I started Last Guardian but didn’t get very far before life got too busy. :( Hope I can pick it up again some day! Do you have a favorite PS4 game?

Aww you’re too kind. I’m so excited to see what you create!! And to chat with you off-anon. :) Who is your favorite member to gif?

Yes, I also like watching other people play video games, but it's rare when I do. I always end up getting distract sometimes. I've played SpiderMan, Horizon Zero Dawn, which are my favorites as well as Tomb Raider. I do really like FFXV, but i haven't played it in so long though. I can't wait to talk to you off anon either. I be having to really make sure I press the anon button. adlfkjsl I"m bad at forgetting. And Yoongi is my favorite to gif. -sparkle 💫✨

Oo I forgot I watched some of Horizon Zero Dawn too! Very impressive game. It looks like a lot of fun and I might try to play it myself in the future.. but like you said, it’s easy to get distracted. Life just likes to get in the way huh. Have you seen/heard of Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice? Intennnnse. I’m an absolute coward when it comes to horror games (or movies) and somehow my partner tricked me into playing one of the scariest parts because he got too scared HAH. That being said, as much as I love really emotionally intense games, I love soft gentle ones too… especially chill co-ops! (I’m thinking of the one we played most recently, Pode… that was on Switch though.)

Yayy Yoongi! I really do love all of BTS, and while the maknae line ran off with my heart, I have a big soft spot for Yoongi. I was never really drawn to rap/hip-hop except maybe Linkin Park like in middle school am I dating myself until I met Yoongi and just… wow.  ._. He’s so expressive in his delivery, his lyrics are heart-breakingly raw and honest, and he has extraordinary range between his gentlest material and the lines that come at you with a knife. Also I’m so proud of him for continuing to work as a producer and refine those skills on top of his life as an idol. What are your favorite things about Yoongi? If you can even choose haha 💗

Lol I know what you mean, I was really paranoid the first 2 weeks about sending anon messages to my other partners on mobile because the interface was different and I was really suspicious of the term ‘public’ vs ‘private.’ And every time I send the ask for about 5 seconds I question whether or not I clicked anon.

P.S. I should keep my mouth shut but … I have an itty bitty guess of who you may be. I won’t say any more than that and I guess I’ll find out in 2 weeks whether I’m right or wrong haha. xD take care sparkle dear!!

That game was really fun honestly. I still haven't finished. And sameeee! I am not into the horror games. The movies I can do, but the games I'm just too scared to really play them. I tried Resident Evil, and I was like this is a BIG FAT NO. Lol. And I haven't heard of that game though, but it sounds intense by the name of it. I also like soft gentle ones, or the ones were it's not a lot of challenging aspects to it. I really like Spyro. The original and the remake. -sparkle 💫✨ 1/2

Linkin Park is one of my favorite groups. I love them, and miss Chester so much. Also it sounds like we're maybe around the same age because that's when I got into them maybe? And I am so proud of him for everything that he's done. Yoongi originally wasn't my bias at first. I think maybe it was going to be Taehyung, but watching their variety shows made me fall in love with him. Outside of his hard exterior, he's so sweet and loving of the boys. It's so hard to just pick one! -sparkle 💫✨2/2

Okay, so one more. Lol. Because the ask limit is so short! I get paranoid all the time, and i have to like double check to make sure I Press it. alkdjfls NOW i'm curious as to who you think I am! But I do how you have a wonderful weekend. -sparkle 💫✨

Dying over your Resident Evil reaction because... SAME lol. However. I have enjoyed watching some playthroughs of 7 and the remake of 2, which is the closest I will ever come to watching a horror movie again. xD I have really fond memories of playing Spyro at my cousin’s house as a kid, but haven’t tried the remake yet! It looks like fun too. There are too many good games to choose from, not nearly enough time to play lol.

I only really listened to a couple of Linkin Park’s old albums, but I miss Chester too. \: We could be around the same age yeah! I’ll tell you when we’re messaging off-anon. :) 

If I may tell a story, my discovery of BTS went like this: heard a music clip in a YouTube ad of all places (normally skip them lol but I got it a couple times at work and thought hmm this is catchy). Then had to dive into some compilation videos to figure out which heckin song it was (turned out to be DNA). But along the way I found more songs I liked. And then I fell HARD for the Mic Drop MV (again, a little strange for me, because it’s pretty hip-hoppy). Jungkook makes this super intense expression at one moment that made me go oh. hello. So then I slowly learned who the different members were, and since this was me mostly streaming YT in the background at work haha, I had to keep switching tabs to check who was singing. I loved Jungkook’s singing but then also realized that I loved Jimin’s sweet voice too (yes I admit when I was first getting to know them, I could not always tell them apart). And THEN mister baritone Tae with his unique falsetto and delicious low range (I really wish they featured his chest voice more but OH WELL I digress) snagged my attention and ANYWAY long story short that’s how I fell in love with BTS and also the entire maknae line I guess. :’)

Hehehe I’ll tell you after the event ends if I’m right or wrong, don’t worry. It might be almost over, but I hope you had a lovely weekend too! ♥♥♥

Yes, somehow my sister convinced me to get it like she was going to play the game too, and she did not. I ended up exchanging the game because I'm like this is a waste of money. haha. I usually always skipped them too, so I totally understand. Everyone I knew liked but I had stopped listening to kpop for a while after the members of Big Bang went into enlistment (sad sad times). I first heard Dope. The FBE Youtube channel reacted to them, and I'm like OKAY GUYS. 1/3 -sparkle 💫✨

When Jungkook hits that high note I was like COME THROUGH VOCALS. So then naturally I had to go and look a few more videos. This was during around the time they had appeared on the AMAs the first time. And then I listened to I Need U and Save Me (this is one of my favorites). And I was hooked. I went and watched their Ellen interviews, and they're so sweet. I ended up binge watching their variety show and Bon Voyage and I was hooked then. -sparkle 💫✨ 2/3

Run BTS was when I realized that Yoongi was my bias. Because I'll admit that I did not like him at first, but I said that already. And then I just realized how sweet and funny he actually his. And I think he's just shy at times. At least in the beginning, but he's so handsome and his stage presence is like a 360 from him being off stage. If that makes sense. I could go on for house about Yoongi. Lol. -sparkle 💫✨3/3

The high notes in Dope are pretty ridiculous because they’re at the start of the phrase so they get little to no preparation lol. Their vocal abilities are truly impressive... and then they do it all while dancing :’) 

I agree that Yoongi’s stage presence is strikingly different from his real self! Or the self we get to see in their behind-the-scenes content lol. Possibly like a lot of people, I thought he was super intimidating and tough until I saw more of him offstage... and then went awww he’s a big softie who just doesn’t pull his punches when he’s rapping and producing.

Do you have any favorite Run BTS episodes? So far I’ve only watched a handful of the recent ones, but all the random gifs and clips of older content warms my heart or makes me laugh. I’d like to eventually watch them all from the beginning... some day lol. (see all previous mentions of being too busy to do anything fun outside of work haha)

They are ridiculous. I love when they hit high notes in songs. All the boys have such a beautiful range, and I love hearing them. Especially when they do their solo songs. Jimin's solos are normally my favorite because his voice is the type I tend to lean towards a lot His stage presence is so different! Just like Jhope's. It's always so different, but it's them all in a nutshell, if that makes sense. Lol. I was in Chorus for a while, and I liked it begin in a group. -sparkle 💫✨1/2

It's easier being in a group, but I could never do it by myself. And favorite Run episode? Hmmm, there are so many that I love. I prefer some of the older episodes to some of the new ones. I'll have to find them again, but there was one where they were doing like this haunted house type of thing and it had me dying of laughter. They're all so funny though. I'm still trying to catch up with some of the new ones they've been doing. -sparkle 💫✨2/2

The vocal line is so wonderful, but I’ve been increasingly impressed with the rap line’s singing too. I have always liked the beginning of Spring Day and I confess it took me an embarrassingly long time to wonder which one of them was singing, and I was surprised to learn that it’s Namjoon. Also his low line in Louder Than Bombs is wonderful... I don’t even care if it’s probably autotuned a little lolol. And I only recently found out about the song Sea, but Tae’s chest-range melody at the very end.. UGHGHGGH it’s too. good. (DEAR BIGHIT COMPOSERS, MORE BARI PLS.)

I had to sing in choir in grad school and ended up enjoying it way more than I thought I would. (I’m a composer/pianist and I needed ensemble credit.) I’ve always been really self conscious about my voice, and now... I would love to take vocal lessons some day. While I know that no two people will play an instrument exactly the same, it’s kind of magical that you don’t know what the true sound or full potential of your own singing voice will be until you train it. Do you play any instruments? :)

The vocal line is amazing. I love all of their voices for different reasons, and sometimes I'm in the mood for one, and then another time I'm in the mood for another. If that makes sense. I haven't listened to Sea that much, but it is such a beautiful song! And you're right. His chest tone HELLO VOCALS. Lol. I'd love to take vocal lessons one day, but not sure if I ever would. And I don't play any instruments, but I would love to learn guitar one day. Lol. It's a dream of mine. -sparkle 💫✨

Hii Sparkle. I’m sorry it took me a bit to get back to you, but it really makes me happy when I receive your messages! Yess Tae’s chest voice deserves all the shouty caps all the time hehe. I hope you have the opportunity to learn the guitar someday if that’s what your dream is! Everyone starts somewhere... I would love to learn the cello too :)) one day haha. 

Do you have a favorite “underrated” bts song? Just curious! Take care dear, looking forward to finding out who you are soon~

Yay! I'm glad you like hearing from me! I really like talking to you. I don't talk to many people on here sometimes, but then other times I do. So this is nice just to be able to talk with a fellow army. One day I will learn it, I just have to learn how to read music first. Lol. Because I definitely don't know how to. Hmm honestly there are a few that I feel are underrated, that i Iove. Spring Day, Hold Me Tight, and Autumn Leaves. These songs are queens! What about you? -sparkle 💫✨

Music is a lifelong learning process but it’s worth it. :’) I believe in you!! 

SPRING DAY!! 🌸🌸🌸 One of my all-time favorites. I honestly might not have a very good awareness of what is underrated and what isn’t, especially among older songs, but... I love Spring Day, The Truth Untold, Jamais Vu, and most recently Sea... lol hm I’m sensing a trend of bittersweet/melancholy songs. But also House of Cards (it’s just so delightfully WEIRD and dark and different??). On the other end of the spectrum (although not sure if it’s underrated?), Silver Spoon/Baepsae. What a jam. Love to tune out the world with that one at work on one of my walk breaks if I had a frustrating day. And maybe it’s too early to tell from MOTS 7, but I get the impression that I might love Louder Than Bombs way more than the average army. And that’s okay :)

I don’t talk to or know very many people on here yet too, probably because my blog is still relatively new. So I’m very glad to be getting to know you

I loved Spring Day as soon as I heard it. I still listen to it a lot when I'm in the mood for it. It's such a beautiful song. The Truth Untold IS A QUEEN. I love that one too. Jamais Vu, I think I have to be in the mood to listen to it sometimes, but it's growing on me. House of Cards, that one I heard last year sometime and I like that one too. I don't listen to it as much. And Silver Spoon is my go too song honestly on my way to work. Louder Than Bombs is really good. -sparkle 💫✨ 1/2

I listen to that one a lot myself. I think We Are Bulletproof 2.0 maybe one, but I'm not sure either. I absolutely adore that song so much. It's such a beautiful mad song honestly. And also you're right this update is kind of weird, but I don't mind the font so much. -sparkle 💫✨2/2

Yasss I’m glad you like Truth Untold too. It’s too beautiful. I practically cried when I heard for the first time a live performance video (somewhere in Japan) where he sang a higher note in the climax than in the studio recording auuughgghgh my heart. 

We Are Bulletproof pt. 2 took awhile to grow on me but I was happy when it did. I can be a little odd about the order in which I listen to songs, and usually need to listen in album order, but for some reason I really like that one after No More Dream. Also, though it’s hardly underrated, I now know what all the fuss is about Cypher pt. 3. I’ve been gradually purchasing their older albums (kinda out of order) and finally got to Dark & Wild about a month ago haha. I’m listening to all these mad songs now. Been in a weird sad mood for a lot of today tbh and... mad bts is helping a little haha. So is chatting with you!

I’m probably overreacting about the dashboard, but something about that bubbly serif font is irritating haha. And I don’t see this mythical option to revert to the old dashboard that people are talking about in their settings. Boo. I’ll get over it... eventually haha.

The Truth Untold is one of my favorites, and I normally don't like ballads a lot. It takes me a while to get into them, but this one just caught my eye. I'm learning Korean, and it's one of the ones that I can sing along too while reading the lyrics! I am super proud of that accomplishment. When I was going through their albums after I got into them, I skipped the older ones at first. I wasn't sure if I really liked them. -sparkle 💫 1/2

I listen to a select few of them on their darker albums, but a lot of it isn’t really what I like hearing. Although, I think I may revisit the albums again. It’s been a while since I actually listened to them. haha if you go to settings > dashboard you’ll see it there. Just let it load for a second, adn then it pops up. -sparkle 💫✨ 2/2

(Ugh I typed an answer and then tried to drop in a screenshot and everything disappeared. Got it, tumblr. No dropping images. REDO.)

Oo that’s awesome that you’re learning Korean! Are you self-studying? How long have you been studying? I’ve been studying Japanese for several years (very slowly lol). Then a few months ago, thanks to BTS, I was suddenly really interested in learning Korean too. I worked on memorizing hangul for a week and then had a “lol what am I doing” moment when I realized I didn’t know nearly enough Japanese yet to realistically tackle two challenging languages at the same time. So Korean is on hold for now, but I really wish I could just… magically be fluent haha. It would be amazing to understand their lyrics or interviews/conversations on the spot without relying on translations. And English is stupidly difficult, so as much as I appreciate how much effort they’ve put into learning too… as an international fan, I wish I could return that effort too and learn their language so that they don’t feel like they need to learn English. 

Love Yourself: Answer was my first album and I purchased that one specifically because it was a compilation and contained most of the individual songs I already knew I liked from YouTube haha. Then I expanded from there. To be honest, if I had found BTS when they were just getting started, or anytime before HYYH, I probably wouldn’t have connected with their music, sound-wise or thematically. But… they were exactly what I needed when I did finally find them. And now I have immense appreciation for their beginnings and how far they’ve come, even loving some older songs/styles that I never expected to. As I mentioned, I don’t usually listen to pop or rap/hip-hop… like ever haha. But something about them just reached into my heart and I’ll be forever grateful to them.

I tried what you suggested (waiting on the page) and… the text kinda jumped at one point as though something else had loaded, but nothing else displayed. Am I derping around on the wrong page? \:

edit: I see it in the source code, idk why the toggle isn’t displaying for me 🙃

Yes! I am self learning. I have been doing it on and off for like two years, but the last part of last year I've been doing it most often. However with everything that's going on, it's kind of slowed down and I've just been focusing on what's going on in the world right now. I feel the same. I think if I would have found them before, I don't think I would have liked them as much as I do now. I do have an appreciation for their older music even if I don't listen it to it much. 1/3 -sparkle 💫✨

Their first two albums I didn't like as much, but everything from then on I'm pretty sure I am obsessed with when I found them out. Lol. I do remember you say that previously that you don't listen to a lot of that style of music. What do you normally like to listen to? I listen to a lot of everything, so I'm not sure if I have a genre that i really stick too. Although, I think in the beginning i listened to a lot of hiphop/rap and alternative stuff. -sparkle 💫✨ 2/3

Then the older i got the more I got into pop music because I found kpop when I was about 17, and it's been stuck to me ever since. Lol. So I don't know I like a lot of music that makes me feel good and I can dance too or sing along with. I think maybe it depends on my mood. Lol . -sparkle 💫✨3/3

I think that’s awesome that you’re working on learning the language on your own! And I understand the challenges of keeping it up independently, especially in such strange and challenging times... I feel guilty that I stopped my daily kanji studying pretty much as soon as I started working from home. It was initially because I used my commute time to study (I’m in a vanpool) and... definitely lost some motivation once everything started changing. I know I shouldn’t be too hard on myself though for taking a break, and I hope you are not either. I’m hoping to get back into soon and reform some study time habits :)

Yeah it sounds like you’ve been listening to Kpop for a long time! ^^ Aside from my fairly recent BTS obsession, I gravitate toward moodier music in general haha. Evanescence was my instant favorite way back in middle school and... tbh I still listen to their albums sometimes! I tended to like anything indie-ish with piano or rock + orchestra. I loved this European band Within Temptation, their music is like a blend of rock and symphonic orchestra. Nowadays, I love video game music and that’s probably what I listen to the most... Nobuo Uematsu (Final Fantasyyy), who is probably one of my biggest inspirations for pursuing composition, Austin Wintory (Journey, Abzu, etc), and more recently Jessica Curry (everything the Chinese Room studio made lol). The past few days I’ve been streaming the songs from Death Stranding. I admit I don’t tend to have a lot of variety... I’m kind of picky and when I find something I love, I will listen to that obsessively over and over for months on end. Like BTS. xD No regrets haha! But I know I should broaden my horizons too...

I'm trying not to be so hard on myself, but I know I'll get back into it soon as I set a schedule for myself. Evanescence is amazing, that's all I got to say. I love them so much, so I totally get it. That's interesting though. I love learning about others music interest. It's always so different and diverse from mine. And also, I realized I didn't answer your question about the dash, and for some reason I don't know why it's not showing up. You were in the right place though. -sparkle 💫✨

Yayy glad you like Evanescence! Yes it is amazing and also wonderful that we all have unique tastes. I know I should make a better effort to try out new things, because finding something new that I connect with is amazing (see: BTS hehe).

I'm so excited to meet you next week!! Please take care and enjoy the rest of your weekend 💗

Sometimes it’s harder to really step out the box. So I totally understand, but I’ve always kind of had “weird” taste in different music so I like listening to whatever it is I like! And yes! I can’t to show you what I’m working on. I’m still searching for things for it! Lol. So I hope you like it. Also I hope you have an amazing week! And also a good day! -sparkle ✨💫

I woke up way earlier than planned thanks to this new isolation insomnia, but I was so happy to see your message. 💜 I’m so excited to meet you, but don’t feel like you have to rush on the gift! I know whatever you make will be wonderful. I hope you have a great week too. Do you have any ~weird~ music suggestions? I’ll give them a try!

I totally understand how that is. I hate waking up earlier than I want too because then you don't want to get up out of bed, but then you're too awake to go back to sleep. At least that's how i feel. Hmmm, weird music suggestions? I'm not entire sure. I like Florence and the Machine, FK Twigs (this might be an acquired taste), Panic at the Disco. There's so much I listen too, and my mind is going blank. Lol. -sparkle ✨💫

Yeah, that was my feeling exactly. :( At least I put in a couple extra hours of work, so I’ll get to take a shorter Friday. Or whichever day we try to brave a grocery run.

Thank you, I will check them out! Hehe due to your comment, I am intrigued by FK Twigs. For some reason I couldn’t really get into Panic at the Disco in high school, even though I had friends who loved them, but... I do appreciate that someone made an Emote! at the Location bot on twitter. xD

I hope you are having a good week so far! Tbh mine has been a little gloomy, but... I am really looking forward to meeting you! And finding out if my guess is right haha :’)) Take care dear!

And I loved Panic! They were so good, I still love them or Brendon Urie. Lol. FK Twigs is really good, but I know she's not for everyone. I really enjoy her music honestly. And honestly, I'm just about finished with your gif set. I have to find a few more videos and I'll post it probably tomorrow or later tonight depending on when I finish. And hmm, I don't know I don't think it is, but it shouldn't be long though. however, I'm really curious to know who you think I am. -sparkle ✨💫

EEek I’m so excited!! (Please don’t stay up late just for me though!)

As much as I am terrible at branching out, I do enjoy finding new music I like, so thank you again for the suggestions! I will try to listen with open ears and mind haha. Have you heard of Fleurie? I stumbled across her music when an artist I followed made a piece inspired by some of her lyrics. She might be quite a bit different than the artists you recommended though.

I’m going to feel a little silly if I’m wrong, but I’ll tell you after the reveal so I don’t make a fool of myself early. xD Can I ask you one question – do you know your Myer-Briggs type?

I'll probably go to bed soon. I'm actually in bed. I just got stuck on the tiktok app, and I really shouldn't. I've never heard of her, but I'll have to check her out tomorrow and see what she's about. And yes! I do know my Myers-Briggs type! -sparkle ✨💫

Oops you fell down the internet rabbit hole before bed :) Hope you didn’t stay up too late and got enough rest!

Love and War is the first song I found by Fleurie, and it’s also the title of one of her albums. It’s a little bit older but probably my favorite overall! I love the song Hurts Like Hell. It’s devastating but beautiful.

Have a great day, hope to talk to you more soon! 💜

p.s. I’m INFJ ✨

I did fall down the rabbit hole of the internet. It always happens. Also you should check out Kerli! she's really interesting, and I really like her music. Her music videos are also really nice. Intriguing at most. Lol. And I'm infj too! -sparkle ✨💫

I know the reveal has been made, but I didn’t want to leave this sitting all alone in my inbox.

Thank you, Ash, for taking the time not only to make me a beautiful gift but to talk with me this past month. Thank you for being a light and comfort in these uncertain times. I will miss your little surprise messages, but I hope we keep in touch. Now I will go back to liking your wonderful posts (because I confess I held back once I started to guess who you were, I didn’t want you to be suspicious either HAH). I’ve said it a lot but I really hope you stay safe, healthy, and happy!!  💗✨💫💗

[sebeth]

Young Justice Outsiders: Evolution

Warning, Spoilers Ahead…

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 Episode 7: “Evolution”

“Aliens once again threaten the Earth, but with the Justice League split and scattered, only Earth’s first and greatest hero can save us!”

Any guesses? Alan Scott, maybe? “First” would indicate a member of the Justice Society.

 “You’ve come of age, Cassandra. As the daughter of Vandal Savage, these are the things you should know.”

I only know of two Cassandras in the DC Universe and the one onscreen isn’t Wonder Girl.

The other Cassandra is Cassandra Cain. She is the daughter of Lady Shiva and David Cain. Cassandra begins as a mostly mute character and continues to have language difficulties.

Vandal Savage has one daughter (that we know of) in the DC Universe. Her name is Scandal. She was a member of the Secret Six and had a romantic relationship with Knockout. She would eventually marry Knockout and another woman whose name I can’t recall.

Is Cassandra supposed to be Scandal? Is she a Cassandra Cain/Scandal combination? It’s an odd choice to give Scandal the civilian name of Cassandra if the writers are going to introduce Cassandra Cain later in the series – as far as I can recall, Scandal was never given a civilian name in the comics – the writers could have given her any name – why Cassandra?

Vandal’s minion is named Olympia – why the focus on Greek names? Vandal predates the Greek civilization by thousands of years.

It turns out Vandal is earth’s “first and greatest” hero. Only in his own mind.

September 8th: An alien armada heads toward earth.

Conner, Artemis, Brion, Forager, and Violet are chilling on the beach at Happy Harbor.

The group listens to sport news on a tablet. The show writers use the opportunity to mention some DC characters:

“Hank Heywood of Detroit” aka Steel – best known for his membership in the Detroit era of the Justice League

“Victor Stone” – Cyborg. I’m sure every viewer caught this reference.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I love the writers’ love and knowledge of the DC Universe.

Dick arrives with outfits for Halo and Brion. Violet is adorable in her appreciation. Brion isn’t appreciative of the “form-fitting” aspect of his uniform.

Conner admits he’s not fond of form-fitting uniforms either.

Dick mentions Fire designed Brion’s uniform so it wouldn’t be destroyed by his lava form. Fire is most famous as a member of the Justice League International and Ice’s best friend. She was a member of the Global Guardians and Checkmate.

Brion thanks Dick for the uniform as “naked was not my style”.

Forager doesn’t have a problem with nudity: “What is wrong with naked? Forager is naked now.”

The newbie trio continues to be adorable.

Forager puts on his helmet so “Forager is no longer naked”. Way to miss the point, buddy.

Cassandra reads more of Vandal’s history. Vandal’s origin is consistent with the comics: a meteor’s radiation/energy grants him immortality.

Vandal warns Lex of the incoming armada.

Olympia is quite the Vandal fangirl.

Vandal and Lex realize the Justice League and Green Lantern Corps are otherwise occupied due to their machinations. Klarion is involved in Project: Rudapaega? Vandal will have to deal with the armada himself.

Dick trains the newbies. Forager gains the upper-hand against Dick because he “fights dirty” – using towel snaps and sand to the eyes.

Artemis trains with Halo and Brion works with Conner.

Vandal, Cassandra, and Scandal head into space with the War World.

The War World and the armada engage in battle.

We flashback to Vandal’s origin. The unidentified man who stabs Vandal would later become the Immortal Man.

Brion and his siblings were quite the fans of DC’s trinity as children. Brion was a Superman fan, Gregor supported Batman, and Tara was a Wonder Woman supporter.

Vandal contacts Darkseid for resources to fight the armada. Darkseid grants this request.

We discover Darkseid arrived on earth in the 13th century. Vandal, posing as “Genghis Khan”, battles Darkseid’s forces. Darkseid wins but forms an alliance with Vandal Savage.

Jace and Jeff go on a date.

Dick tells the newbies to choose their code names.

Brion wants to be called “Hot Lava”! It’s rejected as it’s too much of a stripper name. Dick goofs on the Tigress code-name and gets punched for his troubles.

Artemis reminds Dick that she didn’t take her name “from an 80’s mullet rock band.”

Dick denies the claim “Not true.”

I love the writers’ reference to Dick’s infamous late 80’s/early 90’s mullet!

Forager is…Forager.

Dick begins training on team maneuvers.

Darkseid sends Kalibak to assist in the space battle.

Olympia: “Kalibak has daddy issues.”

Olympia – the master of understatement.

Vandal spots a Starro fish attached to one of the dead aliens.

We flashback to Vandal’s time as Marduk. He, along with Doctor Fate, battled Starro in ancient Babylonia.

“Marduk’s son, Nabu, fell to the carnage.” This is new to cannon but an interesting choice. Will modern-day Nabu even recognize Vandal Savage.

Ishtar was Vandal’s daughter.

Present-day Vandal battles the main Starro while Cassandra directs War World.

Jeff and Jace spend the night in a hotel room.

We flashback to the Babylonia battle – its revealed that the Vandal and Ishtar emerged triumphant and became known as “the Light”.

Dick gives the newbies props for today’s training. Conner adds his kudos and Artemis teases him over sounding like “Big Blue”.

Artemis offers s’mores as a reward. Halo is so excited a new ability emerges: the green aura causes holograms.

Dick: “We’re starting over.”

Starro is imprisoned in War World alongside Mongul and Despero.

Throughout the episode, the writers have shown Olympia was suffering from memory loss due to dementia.

The episode ends with Vandal calmly approaching Olympia, asking why she recorded his exploits when he had told her not to. He asks Olympia to name her favorite story. As Olympia names the “bear story”, Vandal snaps her neck.

Vandal orders Scandal to take care of her sister: “Any daughter of Vandal Savage deserves a funeral worthy of the gods”.

The end credit scene is Wolf sleeping on the couch.

My second favorite episode of the season. An intriguing look into Vandal’s history. Consistent with comic book cannon but with new additions for the Young Justice universe.

Odd choice to use “Cassandra” as Scandal’s name. As I said earlier, Scandal’s birth name is unknown in the comics – why use “Cassandra” when Cassandra Cain will presumably debut at some point in the Young Justice universe?

Viewers are smart enough to differentiate between the three Cassandras but why use the same name for a third character when you have other options unless the creators are merging Scandal/Cassandra Cain into one character? The offspring of Lady Shiva and Vandal Savage would be a terrifying force but this Cassandra has no language difficulties. Cassandra’s struggle with verbal language is one of her defining characteristics – I wouldn’t be happy if it’s randomly removed.

As for Vandal’s other offspring…assuming Nabu is one of the two sons Darkseid was intrigued by…what happened to the other son? Is he still alive? Did he travel to Apocalypse as part of Darkseid’s pact with Vandal Savage? Darkseid is fond of stealing other men’s sons – ask Scott Free!

Was Nabu the first Doctor Fate? Was his soul captured in the helmet of Fate at the moment of his death? Have Nabu and Vandal encountered each other since Nabu’s transformation into a Lord of Order?

Is Ishtar still alive?

The non-Vandal parts of the episode were simply adorable. Brion, Violet, and Forager are too precious for this world.

Hot Lava!