#oc: pillars kai

[jazziejax]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - Outer Banks Cast! X OC’s

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 - The tension and banger between the Outer Banks cast during the 2024 Kitten Interview.

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - none except the mention of the alleged tension and drama between real actors.

𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞 - I hope this doesn’t ruffle any feathers. I was just so bored but also curious as to what could be going on behind the scenes of everything and I wanted to be a lil messy. I have kind of outgrown RPF fics but I honestly don’t feel like writing anything else and I wanted to do this. Don’t crucify me, I beg. Also, sorry for any grammar errors, I don’t like reading back what I write. I hope you guys like and find this interesting.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭! - 9,371 (???)

“Okay.” Charlie said as her video started, chewing her gum as she moved to find a place to stick her phone. Her heels briefly clicked against the linoleum floor before she stuck the suction case to an available pilfer in the building. “Quick OOTD before we begin.” She whispered to the camera before she backed away some show her whole outfit. Her straightened brown hair swayed as she did a small twirl to show the back of her dress and her styled hair. She looked over her shoulder and did a small leg life before turning back around and moving closer to the phone. She took her small sunglasses out of her handbag and pushed them on the crown of her head to make the outfit complete.

“I do not know where this dress is from, I’m pretty sure my stylist thrifted it.” She said as she leaned down a little to be in eye contact with the phone. “These gold bangles are from grandma.” She chewed her gum as she showed her jewelry. “The earrings are from my mom. I think this bracelet is Betsy Johnson. These glasses are vintage Jean Paul Gaultier.” She paused as she thought of what she could be missing with her outfit. “Oh! Uh, this bag is vintage Coach.” She said as she held up the red leather bag before unclamping it and digging through to pull out a medium sized bottle. “No one asked and I don’t know why I’m telling you but today’s scent is Argos, Triumph of Bacchus.” She listed as quick as she could before backing up a little more and pointing out her leg in front of her to show off her shoes as she simultaneously put the bottle back into her bag, completely unbeknownst of the pair of eyes watching and another figure making its way closer. “And these shoes are vintage Chanel.” She smacked her gum before finally catching sight of movement in the background. A figure approached, and Charlie glanced over, smiling. “Tee, come here!” She called, extending a hand.

Tatum grinned, placing her hand in Charlie’s as she joined her. Her curious eyes flicked to the phone stuck on the pillar. “How the hell is it doing that?” She muttered, leaning closer.

Charlie ignored the question and gestured to the camera. “Outfit of the day, Tee.”

Tatum slightly squatted and gave the camera a small wave before stepping back. She placed her hands in her hips before he brought her left foot behind her right, then continuing to do a slow turn until she faced forward back into her original position. Charlie stood to the side in the cameras view, looking between her phone and her friend in confusion. The girls odd movements in the middle of the lobby caught her costars attention, Kai walking over to stand next to Charlie and leaning down to look into the camera that was recording, awfully close.

Charlie squinted at her friend, stifling a laugh. “What was that?”

The girl dropped her hands from her hips as she shrugged. “I was giving them a 360 of the fit.” She said nonchalantly.

Charlie just shook her head, still chuckling. “Right. Okay, details.”

Tatum stepped forward and gestured to her deep red blouse. “Uh, this blouse is Isabel Marant.” She began as her hands slid down to her black mini-skirt. .“Skirt, I have no idea, it’s black fucking mini skirt.” She pointed to her dark red boots, lifting a foot. “These… alligator? Crocodile?” She paused, frowning, and glanced over at Charlie. “What’s this pattern supposed to be?”

Charlie shrugged, but Kai, who had wandered over unnoticed, leaned into the shot. “Are you asking us?”

“Is this pattern supposed to be alligator, guys?” She asked again, this time lifting her foot back up to show the phone, as if she was asking the supposed people that would see said video. She then quickly turned, her hair whipping behind her as her eyes dated to find a specific person.

“Malcom.” She said as low as she could, the lobby in daily chatty as people buzzed around.

Malcom glanced up from his phone, confused, but sauntered over. “What now?”

“Is this alligator print?” Tatum asked, lifting her foot again.

Malcom studied the boot. “Uh… sure? Looks like some kind of reptile,” he replied with a shrug. His attention quickly shifted to the phone on the wall. “How the hell is that staying up there?” He asked, walking closer and leaned down, putting his large eye directly in front of the lens.

Tatum huffed and playfully shoved him aside. “Focus, Malcom. We’re doing outfits.”

The man grinned and, without missing a beat, struck a series of over-the-top model poses. Charlie and Tatum burst out laughing, and she shoved him out of frame. “Wait your turn.” She said before continuing. “I don’t know what the hell the pattern on these boot are supposed to be, maybe I’m not the fashion baddie I thought I was. But I do know that they’re Coach.” She said with a grin. “And this is a Dior saddle bag.”

“What scent are you wearing?” Charlie asked, smirking.

Tatum gave her a skeptical look, causing the girl to reiterate. “Not like some creep, chill.” Charlie said.

“Why would I tell them what I smell like?” Tatum asked.

Charlie rolled her eyes. “It’s a thing! People want to know.”

“That’s weird, even for me, Charlie.” She said to the girl in an obvious joking tone, shouldering her bag and folding her arms as she gave the woman across from her a judgmental look. Charlie scoffed. “Says the girl that likes to sniff people.” She said to her. Tatum’s jaw dropped. “You know that’s my love language.” She told the girl before they both burst out laughing. Once it died down, Tatum looked into the camera. “I’m not showing you what I smell like. That’s for people that see me in person.” She sassed before moving aside.

Malcom stepped back in. “Guess it’s my turn,” he said, smoothing his short blonde hair as he moved into frame.

Charlie grinned. “Alright, let’s hear it.”

“Uh, this shirt is Miu Miu, jeans are Levi’s.” He listed before going lower. “I’m not sure if these are Sambas or Gazelles but, cool shoes anyways.” He said before turning to the side slightly and showing the hat hanging off his belt loop. “Corduroy Polo hat.” He stated before moving closer to the camera and bending down. “The pièce de résistance—my hair.” He tilted his head to show a few red lipstick marks. “Charlie left this kiss here,” he said, pointing to one on the side. “And Kai drew these in the back.”

Tatum leaned closer, inspecting. “That’s so sick.” She whispered before looking at someone on the other side of the camera.

Kai, who was trying to blend into the background, was suddenly yanked forward by Tatum. “Your turn, Kai!” she declared, shoving him into the frame. He didn’t even have time to react, placed into the middle of the video against his will. “Uh, I don’t know where this shirt is from.” He started. “All I know is that it says Eme Studios, Co…whatever that means.” He continued nonchalantly, causing his friends to chortle at his usual unbothered behavior. “Uh, regular Levi jeans. Blue leather jacket that used to be my mom’s actually. Um, green loafesr, don’t know the brand I just know it’s supposedly Italian leather. I got these from Drew actually.” He said with a small chuckle as he pointed at his feet planted on the ground. He then reached into his back pocket and pulled something out. “And I have this deck of card for some reason.” He said as he showed the expensive looking, gold and black playing cards to the camera.

The group stared at him, dumbfounded. “What?” Charlie asked, laughing. “Why?”

Kai shrugged. “Don’t know. They’re cool, though.”

“He’s just like me for real.” Tatum sighed before walking off. Charlie face frowned into confusion further as she looked into her camera, briefly pointing her thumb at where the girl left to. While Malcom continued to question Kai on his fancy deck of cards, Charlie moved over to the end the video. But before she could, she was stopped by the sound of heels clicking against the floor and Tatum’s voice.

“Wait.” Tatum whispered yelled as she dragged Pricilla behind her, pulling her into the frame with a flourish. The other woman had a large smile on her face as she followed after the girl she considered a sister.

“Cilia!” Charlie said excitedly with a grin as she moved out of the way of the camera to make room for her.

“The real fashion diva is here!” Tatum as she placed Pricilla in the front and stood next to her, presenting her arms out to display the slightly shorter woman. Pricilla placed her hands on her waist as she posed for the camera, puckering her lips. She then did a stylish twirl as if she was on a runway. Charlie let out a catcall whistle while the woman continued to hit pose after pose. She then stopped with a laugh, waving her previous actions off and began to move from the camera before Tatum stopped her.

“No, you have to give the outfit details.” She said, placing her hands on the sides of her arms.

“Oohh, okay.” Pricilla said before moving back to her place.

“This little off the shoulder sweater number is Jean Paul Gaultier x KNWLS. It’s 100% wool.” She said as she moved her perfectly manicured hands down her shirt until she made it to her pants. “These jeans are from Nordstrom if I remember correctly.” She then slightly pulled up a pants leg to show her lace heels. “These shoes are Dolce & Gabbana and my bag is Gucci, even thought I don’t really like either of those brands.” She stated, her voice getting lower at the end as she looked between her on screen sisters, who met out small laughs at the girls words. She laughed as well before continued. “Uh, this watch is a Cartier Baignoire, and my earring are Van Cleef.” She finished before a smiling at the camera and giving a small wave, her hand then moving to subconsciously rub the smooth surface of her slicked back hair.

Just as she finished, the camera picked up on the sound of voices calling out for them, the cast looking over at the sound. Charlie quickly grabbed her phone from the wall and took her gum out of her mouth. “Okay, see you guys later.” She whispered before the video cut.

“Hey, my name is Kai Garcia.”

“I’m Carlacia Grant.”

“I’m Madison Bailey.”

“I’m Tatum Thatcher.”

“And I am Jonathan Davis.”

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“Hello, my name is Malcom Anderson.”

“I’m Charlie Osbourne.”

“I’m Chase Stokes.”

“I’m Drew Starkey.”

“My name is Pricilla Vaughn.”

“And I’m Rudy Pankow.”

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“We’re the cast of Outer Banks,” Carlacia said, flashing a bright smile at the camera.

“And we’re here with BuzzFeed,” Kai added from the other end of the group.

“To play with kittens!” Madison and Tatum exclaimed simultaneously, their faces lighting up with excitement. The rest of the cast laughed at their enthusiasm.

“Ahh! I’m so excited,” Tatum grinned, clapping her hands softly. She had tucked her legs neatly to the side, almost like a mermaid, mindful of her short black skirt and the cameras. She adjusted a strand of her freshly blown-out hair, tucking it behind her ear as they waited for the kittens to arrive.

“Oh my God, shut up!” Madison gasped, covering her mouth when the tiny kittens were brought into the enclosure.

“They’re so freaking precious!” Tatum cooed, her voice soft as her eyes sparkled.

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Charlie let out a gasp when she spotted the kittens. “A tabby cat!” she whispered, almost to herself.

Rudy glanced in her direction, catching her soft expression, and quickly looked away with a small, amused smile.

The kittens were gently placed on the floor, and immediately the tabby started making its way toward Charlie. She let out a delighted coo. “Hi, cutie!” she greeted the kitten softly, reaching out a hand to it as the others reacted to their furry companions.

Across the enclosure, Chase held up his hands in mock alarm. “Please don’t poop on me,” he pleaded, earning a round of laughter from the group.

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“Oh my gosh, how did they get them so small?” Carlacia gushed, her hands clasped over her heart as she leaned closer to the kittens.

Meanwhile, Jonathan was preoccupied, carefully making sure all the kittens stayed inside the enclosure. “Welcome, little ones,” he said, softly greeting the tiny creatures.

“Look at this one! He’s so cute!” Tatum exclaimed, pointing to a small black kitten sitting quietly in front of her.

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“Run,” Chase declared dramatically as the kittens were placed in the center of the group. “Go, my babies!” he added in a bizarre, high-pitched voice, earning a laugh from Pricilla, who was holding the black kitten in her hands.

Across from her, Drew was attempting the near-impossible: balancing two wiggly kittens on his knees.

“I could just do this all day,” Malcom said contentedly, gently cradling a kitten inside his hat as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

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“Who in the Outer Banks cast consistently makes you break character?”

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“It depends on the take,” Carlacia responded, settling a small black kitten in her lap.

“Yeah, that’s true,” Jonathan agreed with a nod.

“Maybe Madelyn,” Madison offered thoughtfully, glancing at the others.

“Oh, definitely her,” Tatum chimed in, shifting her position and stretching her legs straight out in front of her. “Giggles McGoo there.” Her comment earned a round of chuckles from the group.

“I’d say you, Tee,” Kai said, looking up from his lap, where a calico kitten was batting at his fingers.

The others hummed in agreement, nodding.

“Really?” Tatum asked, tilting her head toward Kai with an amused expression.

“Yeah, but it’s different with Cline,” he explained, chuckling. “We’d break character because she breaks character first. With you, it’s the faces you make during scenes. Your expressions are so over-the-top—like, the most disgusted or confused looks ever. You just look so fed up all the time.”

The group burst into laughter, and even Tatum couldn’t help but grin as she nodded along.

“I think that’s because AJ is fed up,” she replied dramatically. “AJ’s been fed up for a while.”

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“JD. Every day,” Rudy said without hesitation as he swaddled a kitten in his lap. His co-stars immediately chimed in with agreement.

“Yeah, JD a lot,” Drew said, leaning back with a laugh. “But specifically JD and Tatum together.”

A chorus of “yes” and “absolutely” followed from the cast.

“It’s like they’re on the same wavelength,” Malcom added. “Tatum will say the most outrageous thing, and then JD will repeat it at the most random moment, turning it into this running inside joke for days.”

“Tatum’s also just…odd,” Pricilla said with a teasing grin, cradling the kitten in her arms. “Like, a little chaotic. If it’s not what she’s saying off-camera, it’s what she does on-camera. She’s such an atmospheric actor—she makes every scene feel like real life. So, even if her character isn’t speaking, she’ll just look at you.”

“And if her character hates yours in the moment?” Pricilla paused for emphasis. “You’ll get the nastiest glare out of nowhere. It throws me off every time!”

The group laughed as Tatum threw her hands up in mock surrender. “What can I say? I commit!”

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“Honestly, 90% of these interviews are just about keeping the kittens in the frame,” Jonathan remarked, gently scooting a few curious kittens back toward the center of the group.

Tatum held the black kitten close to her face, tilting her head to place her cheek against its soft fur. She shot the camera a playful pout before glancing over at JD, who was visibly struggling to keep the kittens from escaping.

A small smile played on her lips as she debated giving him a hand, but her attention shifted when she noticed the sleepy calico kitten nestled in his lap. Her eyes widened at the adorable sight, and she turned back to the camera, her expression soft and full of wonder.

“This is the definition of a cuteness overload,” she said, her voice tinged with a fond pout.

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“I’m trying to be as non-intimidating as possible,” Rudy announced as he laid flat on his back, a calico kitten perched on his chest. He gently rocked his hands back and forth over the kitten, watching it with a dreamy smile.

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The all-black kitten in Carlacia’s lap suddenly let out a loud screech, startling her before it slid down into a pile of purple tissue paper.

“Oh my gosh! Hello, little one!” Carlacia exclaimed, her tone full of affection as she reached down to pet it.

“Are y’all related? Do you know him?” Madison asked, holding the same black kitten Tatum had been cuddling earlier.

The kitten responded with a sharp meow, as if answering her question.

“Only on one side,” Kai joked, making the group burst into laughter.

“Same dad, different mom,” Carlacia added, glancing at Kai with a mischievous grin.

“He said, ‘We go way back,’” Madison continued, chuckling as she cradled the tiny kitten closer.

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“What’s your favorite behind-the-scenes memory from filming season 4?”

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“He’s Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs.” Carlacia said as she chased after the small black kitten with her hand. The rest of them laughed at the memory while she continued.

“There’s an ad-lib that JD did in one scene, and he just came in and he goes “He’s Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs!” And it was, like, the funnest thing at the time. We all alighted for, like, twenty minutes and they had to stop filming and it became a thing.”

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“Mine was this one time with Charlie.” Pricilla began, softly scratching her nails behind the ears of the grange kitten she held in her hands. Said girl looked over at her when she said her name, anticipating what she could possibly say. “I don’t mean to spoil but we had to do this once scene on the beach, and Rudy and her were in the water.” She explained. Charlie had a small smile on her face as she listened, remembering the exact story she was speaking of while Rudy looked over at Charlie as the wither woman retold the occurrence. “And I just remember looking over and she’s just jumping from the board into the water, cannonball after cannonball.” She chuckled, cashing the toner to laugh.

“You were there.” She said, looking up at Drew, who was already looking at her and he nodded. “It reminding me of that TikTok that’s like, ‘You’re only here for the zip line.’” She laughed. “And by the best time I looked over, it looked like she was trying to drown Rudy.” She finished as she glanced at Charlie. The woman had a smile on her face as she looked at her, before her eyes drifted to the man next her, catching his fond smile and soft blue eyes. Charlie grinned before looking at the kitten in her hands.

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“If you could create a playlist for your characters, what songs would be on it?”

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“I already have playlists for my character,” Malcom said, lowering his hand to gently cover a kitten before lifting it again to play with it.

“What’s on yours?” Drew asked, tilting his head curiously.

“For me, I like to capture not just the vibe of my character but also the overall tone of the show,” Malcom explained. “But for Twitch, I listen to a lot of old Tyler, The Creator, Vince Staples, Joji, and Memoboy.”

“Solid picks,” Chase nodded, humming in agreement.

“I have a lot of, like…dark stuff,” Drew said, glancing at Charlie, who was trying to tuck a kitten into the pouch of her sweater. A soft smile spread across his face as he watched her.

“For me, it’s The Cure,” Chase chimed in. “And a lot of Cage the Elephant.”

“Oh, I love them!” Charlie said, looking up from the kitten and over at Chase. “You sent me their playlist, remember?”

“Yeah,” Chase nodded.

“I know the song you like…uh, what is it?” Rudy asked, snapping his fingers in thought. He turned to Chase. “Salute the Solution?”

“Yeah, Salute the Solution,” Chase confirmed. “I actually heard it playing in Charlie’s car when she pulled up to set one day.”

“One of my favs,” Charlie said softly, smiling as she glanced at the camera. She turned to Rudy, catching him slightly off guard with her gaze. “Did you like it?” she asked, her voice light and warm.

“Yeah,” Rudy nodded, holding her stare for a moment. “I remember hearing it before—probably because you were playing it.”

Charlie nodded, a content smile on her face, before turning back to the camera. “I also listen to a lot of Stevie Nicks.”

As if on cue, she, Pricilla, and Malcom broke into song. “You’ll never get away from the sound of the woman that loved you!” they belted out in exaggerated country accents before dissolving into laughter.

“What the hell?” Drew asked, laughing along with the group.

“If Tatum were here, she’d totally get it,” Charlie said dramatically, slumping her shoulders in mock disappointment.

“I feel like my playlist is less structured than yours,” Pricilla said with a chuckle. “I’ve been listening to the Mamma Mia soundtrack for the past two seasons. Plus, Van Morrison, the Bee Gees, and Earth, Wind & Fire. None of those really fit the show’s vibe, but that’s my go-to.” She shrugged before adding, “Oh, and Adele. Lots of Adele.”

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“Shenseea,” Carlacia said confidently. “And Rihanna—Man Down.”

“Period!” Tatum and Madison exclaimed simultaneously, glancing at each other with smiles.

“I listened to a lot of The Smiths,” Kai added, placing a tabby kitten on his shoulder. “Like, a lot.” He emphasized, drawing laughs from the group. “And Laci had Malcom and I listening to Rihanna on repeat, too.”

“Yeah, Kai’s obsessed with Rihanna’s Rude Boy now,” Carlacia teased with a smirk.

“It’s true,” Kai admitted, smiling sheepishly.

“I’m glad y’all are answering questions,” Madison said, focused on a kitten in her lap. “Somebody’s gotta hold it down.”

“We can multitask,” Carlacia replied with a small smirk. She gestured to the cat in her lap. “I’ve got a nice little kitty right here.”

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“My ADHD is screaming right now,” Chase groaned, stopping mid-sentence to coo at one of the kittens crawling in front of him.

“I know,” Drew agreed, not even bothering to hide his grin.

“I thought I was better at multitasking,” Pricilla admitted, leaning slightly into Drew as she struggled to focus. “But these questions require me to think, and I have zero thoughts right now except, look at these adorable little babies.” She held up a tiny kitten for the camera to see. “Like, how am I supposed to focus with this in my lap?”

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“Pine and Ginger.” Madison answered the question. “Give It To The Water is one that you have put on Kiara’s playlist.” She said to Carlacia.

“Same.” Tatum added, placing a kitten onto JD’s shoulder. “Since the beginning, I’ve been listening to a lot of Rollings Stones and Nirvana. David Bowie. A Lot of Jimi Hendrix, little Richard and Jane Brown, I feel like those really fit the vibe of who AJ is as a character. My favorite to listen to though is Fleetwood Mac.” She explained. “You’ll never get away from the sound of the woman that loved you!” She and JD sung at the same time.

“I only know that song because of you.” The boy grinned over at her. Tatum smiled at him, pointing a finger at him. “And never forget that message.” She said. The male just shook his head with a small laugh while Madison furrowed her brows at her. “What does that even mean?” She asked with a small smile.

“Listen to the song, Maddie babe.” The girl told her friend.

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“If you could cast any famous person to guest star in Season 5, who would it be? And what character would they play?”

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“Any famous person?” Drew repeated with a sly grin, glancing at Chase. “So, not even an actor?” He asked with a small chortle. Before he could answer, the black kitten in his lap let out a sharp screech. Drew blinked and looked down at it. “Hi,” he said sheepishly, earning an even louder screech in return.

“Dude, she’s pissed at you,” Rudy called from his spot on the floor, barely containing his laughter.

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“I’ve always wanted Giancarlo Esposito to play a villain in the show,” Jonathan said, shifting slightly as the kitten perched on his elbow started climbing down his back. “I mean, he’d be perfect. If you’re watching this, Giancarlo, we’d love to have you.”

“I want Rihanna,” Carlacia chimed in confidently. “She should play Cleo’s older sister.”

“Yeah, someone get Rihanna out of retirement,” Madison added quickly before clarifying, “For acting, of course. For acting.”

Kai smiled softly as the kitten on his lap climbed onto his shoulder. “Honestly, I’d want my grandpa to guest star. He’d play…well, my grandpa. Or maybe a no-nonsense cop.”

“That’d be hilarious,” Tatum said, giggling. “Your grandpa is such a character. He’s no-nonsense but also a total joker. He’d steal every scene.”

“I’d actually love to see your grandpa on the show,” JD agreed. “He’d make a funny cop.”

“Yeah, but he’d hate playing a cop,” Carlacia interjected knowingly, glancing at Kai, who nodded in agreement.

“Fair,” Kai said with a shrug, before looking into the camera. “But still—make it happen, guys.”

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“I would like to cast this kitten,” Rudy declared dramatically, gesturing to the calico kitten curled up on his chest. “I’ve always wanted a pet.” His voice turned comically serious.

“You know you can just…get a pet,” Chase said, deadpan, as he gently stroked the kitten in his own lap.

“I meant on the show!” Rudy shot back, sitting up slightly. “Like, the Pogues should have a pet—a mascot.”

“What about French Fry and Porky?” Pricilla asked, pretending to be offended as she referenced the Kooks’ dogs on the show.

“Yeah, and Maren and Butternut Squash,” Charlie added, naming the horses they’d featured in earlier seasons.

“Oh, wow,” Rudy said, his mouth dropping open slightly as he chuckled. “I totally forgot about French Fry and Porky.”

Charlie gasped, shaking her head in mock disbelief. “If they could hear you now, they’d cry.”

“They’re more like mascots anyway,” Drew pointed out. “Compared to Maren and Squash.”

“The real mascot is the chicken in Crocs,” Malcom said casually as a kitten climbed onto his shoulder. “But JJ and Andy killed him back in Season 1.”

The room fell silent for a moment before Charlie sighed dramatically. “Let’s not bring up the past.” She said sadly.

“I’d cast Jelly Roll in Season 5,” Chase said, bringing the conversation back to the original question. Drew hummed in agreement. “Yeah. That’d be awesome.”

“Would The Rock fit?” Rudy asked, his tone serious.

“No,” Drew answered immediately. “He wouldn’t fit.”

“Too bald,” Malcom added matter-of-factly. “Also, no bad guys in Crocs allowed.”

“Yeah, and he probably wouldn’t even fit in frame,” Chase added, causing Pricilla to shake her head at the boys’ antics.

“I’d like to cast Quen Blackwell,” Pricilla said, turning to the camera with a grin. “She’s one of my friends, and she’s hilarious. She’d make the perfect bitchy Kook.”

“I’d like to cast Matthew McConaughey,” Charlie said suddenly, her voice completely serious as she focused on the kitten bouncing around in her lap. “Or Christian Bale. Whoever looks better shirtless.”

The room fell silent again as the boys exchanged looks, trying to figure out if she was joking. Pricilla chuckled, clearly amused.

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"Who’s the most like their OBX character, and who’s the least like their OBX character?"

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“Nick Cirillo, who plays Barry—he kinda just played himself,” Chase said matter-of-factly.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Drew agreed, nodding. “He’s so much like his character.”

“The least like?” Drew echoed, thinking for a moment. Pricilla placed a gentle hand on his back as spoke up.

“I think it’s you,” She said, causing him to turn to her with a questioning look.

“Me?” he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly as they trailed her face.

She nodded. “I think JD too,” He added, causing her to nod again before her gaze shifted away as she began scratching the kitten in Drew’s lap.

He watched her for a moment before responding. “I think you’re a lot like Grace.”

That got her attention. Pricilla looked back at him, locking eyes with his icy blue ones. “Really?” she asked, smiling softly.

“Yeah,” Drew said, his own smile mirroring hers. “You match her sweet, soft-spoken nature. But you’re also fiercely protective of the people you love.”

Pricilla’s smile grew even wider, her cheeks glowing. “Aww, thanks, Drew!” she gushed, leaning her head onto his shoulder.

Drew smiled back, resting his head gently on top of hers.

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“The least like?” Madison repeated. “Drew.”

“Yeah, he doesn’t usually choke his family,” Jonathan joked.

“To the best of my knowledge,” Tatum added, laughing. “I mean, we don’t know what happens in his free time.”

“I feel like Rudy and Tatum are the most like their characters,” Carlacia said.

“Yeah, Rudy’s a lot like JJ,” Jonathan agreed, nodding.

“And Tatum is like AJ in the sense that she’s kinda crazy,” JD teased.

Tatum whipped her head toward him, raising a brow. “In what way?”

JD smirked. “In the way that, if anyone in this cast could commit a murder, robbery, or go on an actual treasure hunt, it’d be you. You don’t give yourself enough credit, but you’re super spontaneous and adventurous.”

“Aww, thank you, JD!” Tatum exclaimed, reaching over to grab his cheeks and squish them together. JD didn’t resist, instead shooting the camera a tired look as everyone laughed.

“I agree,” Madison added. “If anyone could pull off what the Pogues do in real life, it’d be Tatum, Rudy, and Kai.”

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"If you suddenly became rich after finding treasure, what’s the first thing you’d spend your newfound wealth on?"

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“Probably get a cat,” Chase said without hesitation, keeping his focus on the kitten next to him.

“Yeah,” Drew nodded, leaning back on his hands as the kitten in his lap nuzzled against him. Pricilla, who was leaning against his shoulder, played with a kitten of her own.

“Probably a cat. Or multiple cats. Maybe with a purple backdrop,” Chase added with a straight face, causing Drew to chuckle.

“A couple of friends,” Drew joked, smirking.

“Yeah, a couple of friends,” Chase repeated, matching his energy.

“Such dad humor,” Malcom said, shaking his head as he laughed.

“They’re getting up there, Malcom. Don’t make fun of the aging men,” Pricilla chimed in, grinning.

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“Look at the cat couple over here,” Carlacia said, pointing to Tatum and JD, who were absolutely swarmed by kittens.

Jonathan was holding two kittens while entertaining two more. Tatum, with one tucked into her shoulder, patted the kittens in her lap as another batted at her red boots.

“I’m pissed,” Madison said sarcastically, making everyone laugh.

“What do you have, like, catnip in your pockets?” she asked, reaching over to pretend to check JD’s coat.

“He probably does,” Carlacia teased.

“I actually rubbed myself down with it this morning,” Tatum joked. “This was all part of my plan. JD just got caught in the crossfire of my scheming.”

“This is exactly what we mean when we say you’re a little bit crazy,” Kai added, chuckling,, causing Tatum to gape at him.

“I was obviously joking, Kai.” She whined.

“This is such a scam,” Madison muttered, laughing along with the rest.

“I’d build a bat cave,” JD stated seriously, not caring for the other commentary as he answered the question looking straight into the camera. “I’ve said this before. If I was that rich, I’d fight crime.”

“I’d be your Joker,” Tatum said without missing a beat. “That way, you’d always have a villain to fight and stay employed. I’d make sure to do the craziest things.”

JD smiled at her, his eyes softening. “Are you guys seeing it now? The craziness? Are you getting it?” he asked, pointing to the camera.

Tatum gaped at him dramatically. “I’m doing this for you, JD. So you can achieve your ultimate dream,” she said with mock indignation. “I need to go somewhere my creative ideas are appreciated.”

“They’re appreciated here, TT,” JD said softly, making her smile.

“I was dead serious by the way. If you become a hero, I become the villain.”

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“I’d open an Outer Banks-themed treasure hunt amusement park,” Malcom said, shrugging. “No, I will not expand further,” he added, cutting off the group’s laughter before they could even ask.

“I’d build a garden back home,” Charlie said. “We already have a garden, but I mean, like, a full farm with animals and fruit. I want bears, deer, moose—”

“You’d have to go to Alaska for that,” Drew interrupted with a chuckle. “I don’t think they sell those in Hawaii.”

“I know! That’s why I want them.” Charlie slightly grinned, stealing a quick glance at the Alaskan actor. “I’d love to, but I’m not used to the cold. I am from an island, after all,” She said with a teasing smile.

Rudy looked down, a faint smile tugging at his lips before he quickly erased it.

“I’d produce, direct, and film my own movies or shows,” Pricilla added with a casual shrug.

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“What’s your most useless talent?”

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“Making a fart noice with my mouth.” Chase answered. “Well, Rudy, that’s yours probably.” He nodded over at him. Rudy, who was laid all the way out, his head on the floor, let off a few fart sounds. Charlie covered her mouth as she tried to hold in her laugh at such an immature gesture. Pricilla looked over at her, pointing her way. “She laughs at everything.” She told the camera.

“That’s actually how Rudy and I find each other on set.” Chase said, causing Rudy to laugh. “It’s true.”

“And I’m not lying, yeah. It’s like one little…it’s our bird call.” He continued to explain.

“Is that loud enough?” Drew asked, genuinely curious.

“It can get loud.” Rudy said.

“Mine would probably be the amount of times I can dye my hair without it getting damaged.” Malcom said. “I also can do many patterns on it, as well.” He said. “So useless, bit, I like that I can do it.”

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“I got, like, a bunch of useless knowledge in my brain.” Jonathan said. “A bunch of facts that, like, don’t matter. Will never come up in conversation unless I’m taking to Tatum.” He gestured over at her, the girl smiling at the camera at the mention of her name. “I know a bunch of, like, voice actors who worked on this animated movie years ago. I’ll just know that and I’m like, ‘That doesn’t help me.’”

“Unless it’s trivia night.” Tatum added.

“I wish I made space for, like, important stuff. Like, how to do my own taxes.” He chortled.

“I’m sort of the same.” Tatiana began. “But mine isn’t more so random facts, I just know a lot of biology and history. My two favorite subjects growing up, and I minored in Biology in college, so I just know a lot of facts about either. And I love talking about them.” She said before a grin made its way into her face as she leaned in some. “And let me tell you this, guys love it when you nerd out on subject’s like that.” She winked. JD glanced over at her, a not so amused look in his eye. Tatum looked at him, a small grin on her face. “What?” She asked softly. JD just nodded at her, a small smirk on his face. Tatum looked away from him.

“Non of my talents are useless.” Kai said. “I’m a jack of all trades.” He shrugged.

“Mines is escape rooms.” Madison said. “Really good at escaping rooms.”

“Yeah, we crush an escape room.” Tatum nodded.

“That’s not useless.” Kai said. “What’s happens if we need to, like, get out of a room?” He questioned, casing Madison to grin. “You’re there and we’re good.”

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“What’s one storyline from Season4: Part 1 that shocked you to your core after reading the script.”

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“One I can’t talk about.” Chase said.

“Same.” Charlie said softly, looking down.

“Dad.” Rudy stated.

“Dad.” Drew nodded. “Yeah, that one.” He said. “That’s one shocked me to my core.”

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“What’s something that shocked you from part one bro?” Jonathan asked the black cat in Tatum’s lap. “Yeah, answer the question please.” Madison added. Tatum watched them both pause as they waisted on an answer they’ll never get.

“Yeah.” Jonathan begun. “That Terrance thing. Terrance dying.” He nodded as he leaned over, placing the cat on his shoulder, causing the creature to crawl onto his back.

“I mean, I obviously never expected them to put, knowingly put, the not strongest swimmer very far underwater with some of the best swimmers we have.” Madison said as she gestured to Kai. “The scuba diving was very shocking.”

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“Who in your contacts would answer immediately if you FaceTimed them right now?”

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“Madison.” Tatum said, causing the girl next to her to laugh. “Madison, JD and Pricilla answer all my calls.” The girl continued. “I can’t name one time I called and they didn’t answer. Especially Pricilla—she will answer the phone in the middle of a doctor’s appointment.”

“Yeah, we are for sure the answerers of the phone.” Madison said as she gestured between her and JD.

“Okay, well, let’s narrow it down to famous people.” Jonathan said as he looked over at all of them. “What famous friends do you have in your phone that would answer right now?” He asked. They all made a face of thought.

“Well, that’s the thing, famous people don’t answer the phone.” Madison whined, causing them to laugh.

“They don’t.” JD said. “That’s why I would say Bijon but I think they’re practicing.” He said.

“Probably Toni.” Madison answered. “Toni Gentry.” She said. “She’d answer if I called right now.”

“As crazy as it sounds, mine would probably be John Cena.” Kai chuckled, causing them to all laugh. “From all the people I’ve worked with, I think he’s the most famous and he would definitely pick up the phone. Maybe even give me some advice.” He nodded.

“That’s so cool.” Tatum said with a grin. “That’s sick. Uhh, for me, out of all the people I’ve gotten to know working on different projects, I would say either Ayo Edebiri or, shockingly enough, Ke Huy Quan.” She said.

“That is an insane pair.” Kai laughed.

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“Not Drew.” Chase said as he looked over at him. “Cause you’re busy.”

“Yeah, I’ve been getting better though.” The blonde said. “But, uh, right now? Pricilla definitely.” He stated. “You probably.” He told Chase. “You’re pretty immediate.”

“Yeah, I try to be.”

“Well I’ll say definitely not Drew.” Pricilla stated, cradling the ginger cat in her arms like a baby. Drew looked over at her, shocked. “What?” He asked, causing the girl to look at him. “How could you say that?”

“I mean, you just agreed with Chase.” She said. “Plus, if I weren’t on set with you, I’d never hear from you Starkey.”

“Now, that is not true.” He told her. “You know that’s not true. I answer your calls.” He said firmly. Charlie furrowed her brows as she looked between them before shooting a quick glance at the camera and then down at the animals in her arms.

“Yes it is, Drew. I send you funny videos all the time and you never respond.” She said, a small pout forming on her lips as she looked at him. “I respond to them when I can. But I answer your calls, you can’t say never. Maybe not all the time, but not never.” He said, pointing a finger at her. “I’m a busy guy, I have to answer when I can.” He shrugged.

“I answer whenever.” Pricilla said, giving him a sassy look before looking away from him. Drew chortled as he tongued his cheek, a smirk on his face as he looked at the back of her head. “Okay, I’ll do better.” He said, still leaning back in his hands as he waited her fork from the back. “I’ll answer even if I’m on the toilet.” The rest of the group laughed while Pricilla just nodded. “Good.” She said, not sparing a glance his way even though she could feel his eyes on the exposed skin of her shoulders.

“I would call by dear friend Sophie Wilde and make fun of her accent.” Pricilla stated. They nodded at that, the premise seeming pretty sound to them.

“Mine would be Glenn Powell.” Malcom said, aging nods form the rest of them. “He’s pretty good with answering the phone. I mainly just call to talk to his dog nowadays though.” He shrugged.

“That so real.” Charlie said. “Mine is kind of out of the blue but I’d call Billie Eillish.” She said, gaining confused and perplexed looks from the rest of the cast. “And I say that because she’s the only other famous person I know outside of the cast and I met her thought some friends of mine.” She said.

“When was this and where was I?” Pricilla asked.

“Rolling Loud.” She said. “We snuck into the pit for the Lana Del Rey she was near us.”

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What’s your biggest ick?

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“If you don’t have a sense of humor,” Jonathan said. “Like, a dry one? It’s not an ick exactly, but if I’m making a joke and you don’t laugh, it’s awkward. And if I have to explain it? No thanks.”

“That’s kind of like mine,” Kai added bluntly. “But just…stupid people.” The group burst into laughter. “I cannot be with someone who dumber than me and I don’t care how rude or vain I sound. We have to be able to have conversations about everything, even if we just learned the subject. We could be taking about the, fucking, lifespan of a jellyfish, you better keep up.”

“Strict rules over here,” Madison joked, pretending to nervously scratch her neck.

“Yeah,” Kai nodded, staring directly at the camera. “Strict.”

“Mine is classist people,” Tatum said. “Elitists. I hate that. Coming from a self-proclaimed bougie bitch, it’s the worst. Especially in this industry—it’s everywhere. The best way to deal with them? Ignore them. They hate it when you don’t give them a reaction.”

Madison snapped her fingers. “Okay, Professor!” she teased, making everyone laugh.

“But a real ick?” Tatum continued. “Dirty fingernails. Or seeing a guy’s butt crack when he’s getting out of the car.”

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“Food in the teeth, maybe?” Rudy suggested, softly petting a kitten in his lap. “Oh, or if you don’t like animals.”

“Yeah, that’s a huge ick,” Drew agreed. “If you don’t like animals, get outta here.”

“Mine is people being rude to service workers,” Drew added.

Pricilla nodded. “Mine would be people not understanding my interests and making me feel bad for them.” Pricilla began. “Or I would say people who don’t care to entertain my interests but want a deeper relationship with me, if that makes any sense.” She said softly, looking over at her friends.

“It does.” Drew reassured while Charlie nodded. “Okay, yeah.” Pricilla nodded. “Because I’m a big movie person but really in the technical sense, such as camera work and coming and if I can’t talk a bit it with you, I don’t think we should be speaking.” She said.

“I get that,” Charlie said, balancing a kitten on her head. “I’m a farm girl. I do messy work, and I hate when people make me feel bad about it. Like, as if what I do is gross or boring. Like, it can be sometimes but that doesn’t mean I am, you know?”

“I’d say unhygienic people,” Malcolm chimed in. “I’m a germaphobe, so the idea of someone dirty touching me, is enough to make me vomit.”

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If you could guest star in any series—currently airing or not, which would it be?

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“I’m digging The Rings of Power, right now,” Drew said, him and the other guys lounging on the backdrop while the sat up anplayed with kittens. “It’d be cool to hang out in Middle Earth for a day.”

“Ooh, that’s a good one!” Charlie exclaimed. “Mine would be It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Or How I Met Your Mother.” Rudy hummed, looking at her. “Those are nice.” He said, having a quickly glance at the girl.

“House of the Dragon,” Pricilla said with a sly smile at the camera. “I love that universe and I love Baela and Rhaena Targaryen..”

“I was going to say that too,” Malcolm laughed, a kitten climbing onto his chest. “I already have the white hair—I could totally be a Velaryon!”

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“White Lotus,” Madison said with a knowing grin at Tatum, who tried to hide her smile.

“Oh my gosh, yes! Absolutely White Lotus,” Carlacia agreed, then teased the audience. “Stay tuned.” The group laughed, knowing Tatum was set to appear in the next season. “Black Mirror,” She continued to list before all the attention went to the cat the dropped into the purple floor from JD’s hands.

“Uh, Atlanta.” He answered casually, not giving the kitten a second thought. “I’d want to be in Atlanta.”

“Jonathan Davis!” Madison said, placing her hands on her forehead in distress.

“I didn’t do it; he jumped,” JD defended himself.

“Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” Carlacia continued as JD, Madison, and Tatum watched the kitten dart back and forth.

“He’s just like me for real.” Tatum sighed.

“Insecure,” Kai added. Carlacia gave him a look.

“What? It’s hilarious,” he said with a laugh. Laci nodded, smirking at him. “I know that’s right.”

“Abbott Elementary,” Tatum said, earning hums of agreement from the group.

“Wait,” Kai said, leaning closer. “Weren’t you already in that?”

Tatum nodded. “Yeah, I played a student teacher-slash-substitute in season one, but I want to be a series regular.”

“Damn, girl, you get around,” Madison teased as the group chuckled.

“What can I say? I don’t stay in one place long. Gotta pay the bills somehow!” Tatum quipped with a smirk.

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What’s was your favorite stunt for film this season?

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The Enduro,” Chase stated.

“Yeah, the Enduro race—everything with the dirt bikes,” Drew clarified.

“Besides the running-from-bad-guys and the effects-heavy scenes, the only girl who gets a lot of stunts this season is Tatum,” Pricilla said. “And Charlie with the surfing scenes—those were all her. She shreds huge waves, but they didn’t focus on that much this season.” She laughed. “Honestly, my character doesn’t do much anyways.”

“Oh, I did have the scuba scene this season,” Charlie said with a grin. ““With Kai, Madison and Rudy.” She said, the words foreign on her tongue using them in this setting. “That was kind of crazy. It’s wasn’t anything I haven’t die before but it’s been a long while.” She explained, making sure to keep her eyes away from blue eyed blonde away from her. “AJ is the one doing the crazy shit this season.”

“Yeah, Tatum went wild this season,” Malcolm added. “But my favorite stunt was the dirt bike scene when Cleo called Twitch. I could’ve had a stunt double, but that was one of my only big action moment this season, so I wanted to go all in.”

“Same here,” Rudy said. “My favorite stunt was the Enduro. We shit that over a week and all the stunt guys were amazing and the extras were even just as amazing.” Rudy explained as he rubbed his finger against the head of the napping calico on his chest. Drew pointed at the small animal as he stated laughing. “Bro, this guy is cracking me up,” He laughed, turning everyone's attention to the relaxed feline.

“Leave Rosen Cranz alone!” Rudy protested.

“Dude hasn’t moved an inch,” Drew chuckled. “Looks like he’s been through a lot today.”

“We have the same hair,” Rudy said. Charlie laughed, looking between the cat and his own messy hair. “I need a picture of this,” She said, but then realized she didn’t have her phone on her.

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“Scuba for me,” Madison said, while JD tried to stop the fighting kittens in his hands. “Hey hey. Knock it off.” He told them firmly. “Knot it off. Stop. I’m not playing with yall anymore.”

“It was much for fun in a pool where we filmed it than or acting in the ocean, which was very scary.” Madison stated before her attention darted to the male next to her who was writing the kittens. “And guess who it is. Look who it is.” Madison said, pointing at the Tabby cat. “He’s an instigator.” Tatum said disappointedly. “Just like me, for real.” Carlacia stopped what she was about to say to let out a small chuckle.

“Boating,” Laci said, looking into the camera. “I learned how to boat this year.” She looked around at the group. Kai was about to speak when everyone stopped and stared at JD’s kitten, which had just hit the floor again.

“What do you keep doing that for?” Laci asked desperately, while Tatum shook her head. “Someone call PETA,” she sighed, throwing her hands up.

Kai laughed, hiding his face in his hands. Tatum joined him in laughter. “My favorite stunt… I don’t think I can talk about it yet,” She said. “But AJ really handles business this season. She shows the Pouges and Rafe that she’s not to be messed with.” She smirked at the camera. “I love fight scenes.”

“You liked those better than the dirt bike scenes? The Enduro?” JD asked, looking back at her.

Tatum thought for a moment. “Hmm... I think so.” She nodded. “The Enduro was good. I liked at AJ was the only girl out there. And I liked that we’re seeing more of her dark side and how the weight of her mother’s lie is still on her shoulder’s and how it’s affecting her. The Enduro scene was more than a stunt to me, it was more of a look into AJ’s, new psyche, if you will.” She explained. “The other scene was pure adrenaline, though.”

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Who was your celebrity crush growing up?

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“Halle Berry,” Chase said.

“Yeah,” Drew nodded, along with Malcolm.

“Nia Long, Lisa Bonet, Aaliyah, Cameron Diaz in The Mask,” Malcolm listed. “Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman—is that the name of that the move?…” Be questioned himself at the end.

“Robin Williams,” Rudy said, looking into the camera. “I love you, Robin,” he added with a chuckle. “Had a huge crush on him.”

“Mine was Anakin Skywalker,” Pricilla said. “I’m still in love with Hayden Christensen.” She smiled sweetly.

“Mine was the nerd from The Breakfast Club,” Charlie said. “The cute blonde with the braces. He was also in Sixteen Candles and Weird Science—I loved him in Weird Science. Such a cute but hot geek.” She gushed. “Also, SodaPop Curtis from The Outsiders.”

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“Maybe Halle Berry?” JD said, glancing between them. “No, I mean definitely Halle Berry.”

“Oh, 100% Halle Berry,” Kai agreed. “Catwoman, The Flintstones, and Storm.”

“Some of mine were Salma Hayek, Angela Bassett, Lucy Liu, Devon Aoki, Jessica Alba—especially in Honey—and Kerry Washington,” He added.

Tatum nodded. “A cultured man. Exquisite taste, my friend,” she said, causing Kai to smile.

“Zach and Cody?” Madison asked uncertainly.

“Zach and Cody? That’s crazy,” Kai laughed.

“Right? Zach and Cody?” JD said, amused.

“Not you wanting both of them now.” Tatum teased, causing girls cackled. “I ain’t mad at you, though. I get it.”

“The Cheetah Girls?” JD suggested. “Celebrity crush, all of them.”

Tatum jerked her head back. “Uh-oh, not you too,” she said, chuckling. “I wanted to be them so bad, though.” She groaned.

“I wanted to be them and with them, and I had no idea,” Madison added with a laugh.

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“JD, has two on the lap, one in the chamber.” Tatum said as she gestured to the kittens roaming the boys body. “He’s got one hiding bending his coat.” She cooed, moving the boys jacket as she peeked in to look at the rest kitten.

“I’m just busting like that.” He bragged, causing Tatum to groan. “Oh brother.” She sighed, causing them all to groan.

“Stop being a hater, Tee.”

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“If you want to adopt any of these adorable and lovely kittens, you can go over to FriendsofNorman!” Pricilla said as she held two kitten in each hand.

“You guys better hurry and get there before I do.” Charlie said as she cradled the ginger kitten to her face. “Because this one is coming home with me. And maybe the black one and the calico.” She said before kissing the top of the orange cats head.

Pricilla gasped. “OMG, you’re adopting him?” She gushed while Charlie nodded.

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“Thanks, Buzzfeed!” Tatum said sweetly as she waved at the camera. She then picked up the black kitten from her lap and made it wave its tiny paw. “Thanks, Buzzfeed!” She said again with a large smile. She sighed before placing the kitten back down. “Should I adopt a kitten guys?” She asked them, but her eyes went to JD.

“No.” He told her. Tatum smacked her lips before letting out a sad sigh. “I’m convincing someone to adopt all of these kitten.” She mumbled to herself. “Y’all ain’t seen crazy yet, watch me.” She said.

[violettduchess]

A/N: It's been a long haul but it's finally done! Thank you to @lorei-writes for all the encouragement and advice and for helping me take a step into an area of fanfic I never really considered exploring before!

OC Captain Leyla Quinn x Silvio Ricci

Their first meeting

WC: 4k

The sight of sunlight glistening off the waters of the bay never fails to bring Leyla a sense of calm. The brightness dancing along the wavering surface feels like it echoes through her bones, steadying and strengthening her, as real and solid as the wooden dock beneath her boots or the hand that suddenly clamps down on her shoulder.

What the….

With a sharp intake of air, she turns to find Kai, her trusted Quartermaster, has joined her on the pier. The sunlight winks off his bald head and the gold hoop in his ear. Leyla isn’t a short woman but next to Kai, anyone would feel small. He reminds her of the giant Oak trees found in the forests of his native Obsidian: tall, broad, imposing. He gestures with one muscular arm and the orange kraken tattooed from wrist to elbow undulates with the movement.

“Shipwright says repairs will be done by tomorrow.”

Siren’s Call, her ship, took some minor damage before reaching the Tourmaline port thanks to a particularly nasty storm that harrowed them on the last day of their journey. She knew the damage was minimal but keeping the ship in tip-top shape was one of Leyla’s biggest concerns. She had seen firsthand what could happen when a captain became lackadaisical with the care of their ship and when she had become Siren’s Call’s owner, she vowed to never be so complacent.

She shifts her sky-blue gaze over to where the ship is docked. Several figures can be seen scurrying around the deck. She recognizes several members of her crew and grins slowly when she notices Amani, her boatswain, is among them. 

“Amani's got a handle on things, I’m sure.” Fiery Amani from the mystical land of Tanzanite with her explosion of lilac curls and stormy gray eyes sometimes scares Leyla with how well she knows Siren’s Call, almost as if she and the ship share a mind and a soul. She wouldn’t let them get away with so much as an off-center nail.

Kai’s laughter greets her ears like a roll of jolly thunder. “She’s probably the reason they’re almost done, the little terror.”

“Captain Quinn!”

Leyla and Kai both turn at the same time to see a grizzled man with a thick white beard and skin like aged leather approaching, his arms held out wide in jubilant greeting.

“Rumford, you old pirate!” Leyla’s voice is warm with affection as she claps the old man on the back heartily. Kai’s large hand grips his arm in greeting, his smile also welcoming.

The older man’s green eyes twinkle like sea glass as he nods towards the docks. “Ship’s lookin’ good, Captain. I heard ‘bout your troubles with the storm but it seems Lady Luck still favors ya.”

Leyla throws the dark waves of her hair over her shoulder as she glances at her ship and then back to Rumford who is now leaning against one of the nearby wooden pillars.

“Ah, but that's less to do with luck and more to do with the skill of my crew.” Her voice swells with pride. Her crew is her family and it's obvious to anyone who speaks to her how fiercely she treasures them.

Rumford scratches at the edges of his worn blue bandana, shrugging one bony shoulder. “Fair enough, lass, fair enough. Lord knows ya got one of the best…” He pauses, eyes bright as he remembers something and he motions for her and Kai to come closer. “I do have a bit of interestin’ news for ya both.”

Kai can never resist gossip and immediately moves a step closer. Leyla, a bit more skeptical, crosses her arms slowly and grins. 

“Go on then, old timer.”

Rumford clears his throat. “The storm wasn’t the only thing makin’ waves around here." He lowers his voice conspiratorially. "The Red Queen herself was around these parts not several days ago.”

Leyla’s dark brows rise. “You don’t say.”

He nods sagely. “Aye. Ya see, a slave ship carryin’ cargo from the Peridot Islands was sunk not that far from here. One lone crew member survived and he was scared shitless. Claimed the ship moved silent as a ghost and the attack was so brutal it was over in a matter of seconds. All the captives disappeared. No other crew members survived.” Rumford’s voice is a loud, stage whisper. “Folks say that ship and her Captain are cursed but I say, they’re doin’ the angels work, takin’ out scum like that.” He punctuates his words by spitting on the dock. 

He rambles on for a few more minutes before excusing himself with a hiccup and a wave. Leyla watches him amble back towards the ramshackle wooden buildings that make up the portside town.

“I told you one had gotten away.” Her voice is low as she watches Rumford’s frame grow smaller with distance.

Kai crosses his burly arms. “It was dark. He wouldn’t have seen much. Besides.” He turns, mouth tilting in a grin. “That’s what we wear the fancy red scarves for.”

She snorts, biting back a laugh. Kai hated the red silk scarves they all wore on the bottom halves of their faces when they were on The Crimson Scorn. He knew they had to protect their identities. Some of the ships they had taken down belonged to powerful people, black market merchants or corrupt government officials who would love to find the Red Queen and her crew and send them to a watery grave.

“We should be hearing from Morganite in a few days then.” The small country of Morganite was where they had sent those they freed. A contact was waiting for them there and would help relocate all those who had originally been heading for the torment of slavery. 

Kai nods. “I’ll let you know the minute I do.” A seagull cuts a dark figure across the clear sky, its loud call directing their attention towards a ship in the distance, heading towards the port. Even from far away, every part of it screams wealth, from its many billowing white sails to the rich color of its wood.

Leyla squints and then shakes her head. Her disdain for the fancy ship radiates off her like heat waves and Kai laughs, patting his captain on the shoulder.

“C’mon. There’s a pint in The Loaded Cannon with your name on it.”

She watches the gaudy merchant ship for another moment, something uneasy fluttering in the pit of her stomach. A feeling that she can’t quite pinpoint. Like that ship is a harbinger of some kind. But of what....she doesn't know.

“Captain?” Kai is looking down at her with concern in his hazel eyes.

Leyla clears her throat, turning on the heel of her black boot.

“Let’s go. We got some celebrating to do.”

The Loaded Cannon isn’t much, but it has warm food, strong ale and good service which is more than one can say for many seaside taverns. As the sun sinks, painting the sky in dramatic pink and orange, Captain Leyla Quinn is squinting, one blue eye focused with blazing intensity on the crude chalk outline of a person against the far wall of the tavern. Those who are seated nearby or leaning against tables watch, slanted forward in anticipation but not daring to make a sound.

Right……there……

The small dagger leaves her hand, flying with a precision that belies the amount of drink she has consumed already. It strikes the wall right where the painted man’s heart would be with a loud thunk. The grizzled seafarers cheer, sloshing their ale as they raise their mugs in a toast. Leyla whoops with joy, throwing her arm up in celebration before reaching for her own tankard and taking a long, deep pull.

“And that’s how you do it, folks!” Her eyes shine as she sets down her mug, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand and laughing at a joke one of the craggy patrons makes about never messing with Captain Quinn.

“You’re good."

A voice cuts through the crowd and she turns, her radiant exuberance slowly shifting from smile to frown as a stranger approaches. In the hush that falls over the tavern, she can hear the sound of his ornate clothing jangling before he even steps into the hazy orange light of the overhead lantern.

Even in the dim room his blue eyes gleam like molten sapphire.

“But I’m better.”

Heat swarms inside her veins, an immediate buzzing that has her straightening her shoulders, lifting her chin as he comes fully into view. He is staggeringly handsome with pale hair the color of moonlight and a face made to be sculpted in marble. His body is long and lean, lines that beg the eye to follow them. His lips are quirked in a smile painted in equal shades arrogance and confidence. A smile that has her suck in a breath and there it sticks, right in her chest, as she finds herself locked into that brilliant gaze.

She could drown in all that blue, sink into it like a wrecked ship into the hungry ocean, all without putting up a fight.

Attraction has unexpectedly roared like a beast unearthed, sinking its claws into her heart and stomach, driving heat across her skin.

But she is also very aware of her surroundings, of the many gazes jumping with bright interest between her and this tall stranger with golden jewelry that drinks in the ochre light.

Fighting the shocking tidal wave of sudden desire he has unleashed, she slips into a pose of casual interest, her head tilted as she regards him, hoping in the back of her mind that she has managed to look mildly intrigued.

“Aren’t we sure of ourselves,” she says loudly, lifting her mug of ale and taking a sip, grateful for the cool rush of liquid. Her eyes never leave the stranger and he seems amused, head cocked to one side, waiting to see what she’ll do.

She sets down her tankard, turning to face him fully. “You have a very loud bark, sea dog. And it’s my experience that dogs that yap the loudest are the least dangerous.”

A collective chuckle rolls through the patrons as they continue watching the exchange. It gives Leyla a boost of confidence as she winks at the sailor seated just to her right, a gesture of comradery and conspiracy. 

The stranger grins slowly, placing a hand on his hip.

“Brave enough to make a bet of it, lady?”

Leyla scoffs. “I don’t make bets with strangers.”

He takes a step closer, looking at her as if she is the only person in the whole tavern.

“We ain't strangers. We’ve been talkin’ for at least a minute.”

“You can take him!”, one of the men calls from the back and the patrons all nod, yelling their support, some banging their mugs on the scarred wooden tables.

Leyla glances around, bolstered by the sight of so many supportive grins, then turns back to the pale-haired man. Alright then. This may be a way to temper some of the heat tornadoing through her. Focus that energy on competition.

“What’s your bet?”

He reaches up, rubbing his chin as if in thought. She can’t help but notice his hands. What a paradox they seem to be. He has the calloused palms of a sailor but with long, elegant fingers bedecked in a variety of expensive rings.

“One throw. Whoever gets closest to the center of the heart, wins. When I win….” There’s a pause as he allows himself the liberty of drinking in the sight of her, from her knee-high black boots to the ends of her wavy ebon hair. “.....you kiss me.”

The patrons in the tavern roar, some with protective annoyance, others with astounded delight. There are an equal number of “Now wait a minutes” mixed in with “He’s got guts, I tell ya.”

That tornado she was hoping to temper rips through her at the thought.

Goddamn it.

Leyla holds up her hand to quiet the room, ignoring the wild hammering of her heart and keeping her breathing as even as possible. However confident this man is, she knows her own skill with a dagger.

“And when I win….” She pauses, imitating the way he looked at her a moment before, then smiles slowly. “I get that fancy sword of yours.”

His hand automatically comes up the sword at his hip, to touch the beautiful gold hilt inlaid with elegant azure gemstones. She’s struck a nerve, picking something that obviously holds value to him. Their gazes meet and lock, like the antlers of stags locked in combat.

“It’s a bet.” His voice is light, easygoing but she notices the way his hand is still possessively wrapped around the hilt of his sword. “Ladies first.”

She reaches down, slipping her fingers into the inside of her boot and removes the dagger she has carried with her ever since her first journey across the sea. She has wielded it a thousand times, knows its heft, its dynamics, its length. She could throw it with her eyes bound and it would hit its mark.

The patrons hold their breath. Never has she experienced the tavern as quiet as it is now. She turns, facing the chalky outline of the man on the wooden wall.

The only sign of nervousness is the slight press of her lips, the thin line they form as she breathes in deeply.

Once.

Twice.

And then she throws. The dagger sails from her hand as sure and steady an arrow from Diana’s bow where it lands with a satisfying thunk right where the man’s heart would be. The tavern erupts into cheers and she feels a wave of pure relief wash over her as she steps aside, unable to keep from grinning. 

There’s no way–

He moves with the litheness of a predator, elegance and unbelievable speed blending together in the extension of his arm as his jeweled dagger flies towards the outline. There is another thunk, followed by the hollow thud of Leyla’s dagger as it is dislodged from the wall and falls in a dramatic swoon to the dusty floorboards. In its place, the silver and sapphire dagger gleams victorious.

The tavern erupts again, this time louder than before. It sounds like one loud roar as patrons jump up, some cheering, some in shock, some even clapping this stranger in his elegant clothing on the shoulder.

Well, fuck. 

He passes her, going to retrieve the daggers and she’s hit with the smell of sea salt and something else, something tangy and expensive. Her heart thunders in her chest as the crowd around her calls out teasing words and praise for them both.

The stranger flashes her a smile, all white teeth and triumph, as he holds out her dagger to her, hilt first.

“Told ya,” he says in a low, infuriatingly attractive whisper.

She takes the dagger from him with a loud exhale. She can’t help but notice the eager look on many of the patron’s faces. After all, she did agree to kiss him if she lost….

“Not here,” she snaps, turning on her boot heel and marching straight out of the tavern and into the cool night air. Losing has temporarily doused some of the heat his presence had ignited in her.

Maybe he won’t follow her. 

He follows her.

And she has to admit to herself….she’s not sorry.

When she reaches her destination, he barks out a laugh. She’s literally marched across the street, stopping on the wooden portico of the boarding house directly across from the tavern. The raucous sounds of the patrons within The Loaded Cannon are still audible as they float along on the cool sea breeze.

“Too good for a room in the tavern?” 

Now they are ostensibly alone, standing in the dim light of the single lantern hanging next to the wooden sign of the boarding house. She thought he was handsome before but now, up close and away from other people, his presence swallows everything else around her, as strong as the unyielding pull of the bright moon on the tide. Has she ever, ever been so immediately drawn to a person like this? 

“I like my privacy.” The word hangs in the air between them, sparkling like a gemstone, smooth as silk. 

He takes a step towards her and for the first time, she can see the effect she is having on him. His eyes are dark as the sea at midnight, his body radiating an electric tension as he draws closer to her.

So it's not just her. He feels it too.

“Ya lost, sea witch. Time to pay up.”

Something inside Leyla bursts. 

Like a sea anemone opening its explosively bright body to the current. 

Like cannon fire. 

Like lust.

She reaches out, grabbing him by the wrist, feeling the softness of his white silk tunic under her palm and pulls him to her, stretching up to press her mouth to his.

Oh……

……..oh…….

………………fuck.

He tastes sweet as rose liquor and twice as potent. She wraps her arms around him, immediately wanting to get closer, drinking him in like he might disappear at any second as something ferocious is let loose. Something wild that winds itself around them. Something blistering. Something that feels like vague danger and crystal-clear want. Those long fingers are curling themselves into her black hair, wearing it like his golden rings. He pulls slightly to shift her head, giving him a better position to plunder the heat of her mouth, to swallow every gasp she makes. And when she groans, he yanks her even closer, like he can’t take it, and she swears she can feel his heart banging like drumfire in his chest.

A loud whistling breaks through the feverish haze and she sees several sailors grinning as they exit the tavern, having spotted them wrapped in each other’s arms.

“Fuck,” she murmurs as the rowdy, ale-drunk group continues with playful catcalls and whistles. Drawing a deep breath, she tilts her head to meet his gaze straight on. “Let’s go to my room.” She starts to reach for his hand but then stops. “I mean….if you want to.” Maybe he doesn’t want to go any further. She shouldn’t assume–

He grins and the sight of it has her heart resume beating at breakneck speed.

“If ya think my answer is gonna be anything except ‘yes, immediately’--” He’s cut off by her yanking him through the doors of the boarding house, hand now held confidently and very firmly in hers.

She kisses not with lips and tongue, but with fire. 

Silvio didn’t see her when he walked into The Loaded Cannon. He heard her. A laugh that broke through the smoky din like a burst of sunlight through faded gray clouds. It immediately turned his head, diverting him from his mission to see what he could find out about the captain he would be meeting with tomorrow concerning his trip to Pyrite.

That laughter wound its way through the air, danced over the rumble of low voices, the drunken cheers, the mumbles until he found its source. She was standing, shoulders back, stance wide, wavy hair the color of a moonless midnight sky falling in waves past her shoulders, and a grin so cocky he felt his own lips curving upwards in response. She was jerking her thumb towards the wall where a dagger was embedded within the outline of a person, defying anyone to deny what skill a throw like that would take.

She wasn’t the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. There wasn’t any physical feature that stood out as extraordinary. And yet here he was, unable to tear his gaze away from her. He watched as she lifted her tankard, turning in a way that he got a good look at the pale blue of her eyes, the cloudless sky at midday, and he noticed the small black beauty mark at the corner of her left eye. His fingers curled with the sudden, inexplicable urge to touch it.

“And that’s how you do it, folks!” Her voice surprised him. Deeper than he expected, huskier than he would have imagined. He wanted to hear more.

And then he was on his feet, walking towards her.

“You’re good……but I’m better.”

And those five words lead him to this moment, right now. To this woman who has invaded every one of his senses with lightning speed, her fingers brazenly roaming through his hair as she leaves a trail of kisses across his bare shoulder like droplets of lava. A tornado of hunger tears its way through his body, tangling his veins and burning up any thoughts other than how much he wants her, this blue-eyed siren who smells like orange blossoms and feels like heaven under his palms.

Her name…..it doesn’t matter. Who needs something so unimportant? His mouth has other things to do. Like an unspoken agreement, neither one of them has said a word since stumbling into her room. The seconds are for tasting as much of the other as they can, as quickly as they can. They fall in tandem onto the bed, never letting go. Two people drowning and grasping each other as they sink down into the storm of need. 

Has he ever been so lost, so completely immersed in another person like this? Has he ever felt so frantic from just a touch, a sigh?

And then she wraps her arms around his shoulders, her legs around his waist and there is room for nothing else in his mind. Just her. And he plans to enjoy every second he has, swimming in this tempestuous sea of lust and longing, until the dawn kisses the night and the sky turns pale with morning’s glow.

Leyla’s eyes open just as the last blush of peach is fading from the clouds and the sun continues its climb through the morning sky. Her body feels languid with the memory of the night, heavy with satisfaction. She stretches with a slow yawn, running a hand over the side of her neck and down the tender slope to her shoulder, an expanse of skin peppered with the rosy echoes of a stranger's passionate kisses. Her hips are marked by the strong grip of his nimble fingers. Ah, but it can't be just her. Oh, no. His body must carry the same evidence of their night together. She remembers well the feel of his muscular back under her fingernails, the softness of his earlobe between her teeth.

A shiver runs through her at the thought. One of the most memorable nights of her life and she doesn’t even know his name.

She turns towards the nightstand with the intention of checking the time on her pocket watch and freezes.

There, leaning against the wooden night table, is his sword. A parting gift. A thank you.

Her grin rivals the brightening sky.

“Had a good night, did you?” Kai glances at his captain as they head down the street towards the Merchant’s Guild, one of the better constructed and larger buildings in the entire town.

Leyla adjusts her fitted long coat. It is a deep royal blue and decorated with gold filigree, the one she always wears when she needs to make a strong impression. Her blouse is white and crisp and a black leather sword baldric is strapped across her body. And hanging at her side is the sword, its golden handle and sapphire stones winking cheerily in the sunlight.

“That is for me to know. And you to never ask about again.” But she knows he can read her like a seafarer can the stars. He notices the extra bounce in her step, the white silk scarf tied strategically around her neck, the small, secretive smile that hasn’t left her lips since he picked her up.

He laughs as they approach the building, the sound buoyant and warm.

“Alright, alright. Let’s focus on the task at hand then. Remind me who exactly set up this meeting?”

She pauses at the foot of the stairs that lead up to the wide, ornately carved double doors. 

“An emissary from Benitoite has been sniffing around different port towns. Some prince is looking for a crew who knows these waters. Apparently he’s been searching for a captain willing to take him through Blackwater Strait. He’s got cargo that needs to be delivered to Pyrite.”

Kai nods in recollection, now remembering the first time she told him this story. “I only know one captain who is crazy enough to do that.” 

They share a grin and Leyla adjusts the blue velvet tricorn hat on her head, fingers brushing against the elegant white feather it boasts. “Should be easy money.”

They walk in step with each other through the heavy double doors and are immediately met by a slender man with dark curls and glasses. He's dressed in the elegant clothing of a royal adjutant.

“Ahh Captain Quinn, right this way.” He glances at her and then up up up at Kai nervously before leading them down the hallway and through another set of doors that open into a large, airy meeting room.

Kai steps in confidently but for the second time that morning, Leyla freezes.

The man waiting by the window, the one dressed in ornate finery, absurdly trimmed with white and black fur. The one whose golden jewelry jangles as he turns to face them. The one with pale hair the color of moonlight and a face made to be sculpted in marble.

“Prince Silvio of Benitoite,” the aide says formally.

It can’t be……

He’s the prince?

“Captain Leyla Quinn, of the Siren’s Call.”

Silvio’s shocked expression is a mirror of her own.

She’s the captain?

The same word leaves both their lips, at the same time.

“Fuck.”

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[imawreck]

Recruit

Pairing: David "Deacon" Kay x Original Character

Summary: Based in Season 2, S.W.A.T. is bringing in both old and new recruits as they recover from budget cuts. Among those new recruits, is Lily Blake. With her training and experience, she poses potential for the team. Unfortunately, not everyone is willing to overlook her spontaneous nature, or untraditional joining to S.W.A.T.

Author's Note: The first few parts to this fic will be incorporating the character into the team, but there is an eventual Deacon x OC pairing. It's a slow burn fic, so be patient!

Warnings: Cursing, violence, angst, fluff, team drama, radio communications and time skips are sometimes italicized

Word Count: 1,218

"20-squad, round up and meet me in the conference room in five." Commander Hicks' voice echoes from down the hall, reaching the ears of the team. They hustle into the room, brows furrowed and voices low and curious.

Hicks looks them over with his brows drawn as he waits for them to quiet down. "I want to inform you all of a transfer happening in this division. The L.A.P.D. is recovering from the budget cuts, and in turn, is increasing personnel again. I have hand selected one of these new recruits for your squad."

Hicks seems to sense their unasked questions, and he closes his eyes as their voices rise.

"Hicks, when did we start taking officers that haven't completed the academy?"

"Yeah," Luca chimes in, "a spot on S.W.A.T. has to be earned like all the rest of us!"

20-squad mumbles their agreement and Hicks raises a hand to silence them. "This officer is highly recommended with great marks, not to mention a skillset that this team would really benefit from. This is not up for debate. New recruits arrive tomorrow, I suggest you make peace with it now."

5:15 A.M. Blake-

I shuffle my feet, throwing my weight into the bag as my fist makes contact with a soft thump. It's early morning, way too early to have as much energy as I do, but I couldn't sleep with all the excitement of today. It isn't every day someone's chosen for S.W.A.T.

A smile crawls onto my face as I take another swing, slamming my elbow into the bag in silent triumph. A door opens behind me, but I pay it no mind as I continue to wail on the bag with my mind occupied with the curiosities of the job to come.

That is, until a smiling face peers around the bag and nearly meets the blunt end of my knuckles. "Woah there, I come in peace!" He laughs, his hands raised in mock surrender.

I huff, out of breath. "Sorry, didn't notice you."

"Pretty active for this time of day, huh?" He adjusts the strap of a navy bag at his side, the silver S.W.A.T. logo catching the overhead lights.

I nod, "Couldn't sleep so I figured I'd burn some energy before the day gets too crazy."

He laughs, nodding, "I know what you mean. Names Jim Street."

He holds out his hand to me, and I'm quick to dry my palm on my towel and give it a shake while I respond with a smile. "I'm Lily Blake, it's nice to meet you."

"I haven't seen you around before. You a new recruit?" He leans against the pillar next to the bag, and I take a moment to collect myself.

"Yeah, not sure which squad I'll be put on though." I take a seat on the bench across from him and take a swig of my water. "Are you new too?"

"Oh, no, I'm a member of 20-squad. I finished my academy last year. I didn't hear they had another one." There's a pensive look in his eyes despite his friendly approach.

I shake my head, "I didn't take the academy." It's not much information, but that's all I can really give him. I'm not sure why I was picked to join S.W.A.T., but I wasn't about to tell him that.

"Well, its refreshing to see a new face around here. Even better knowing I won't be the newbie anymore." He laughs at that, "I look forward to seeing you around. Good luck on your first day!"

With a little salute, he turns on his heel and leaves me alone once again. I smile to myself, pleased that I had at least one acquaintance around here. Jim seemed nice enough.

A few hours later, the station is awake and buzzing with voices. More officers flood in, all muttering about new recruits and how happy they are that the budget cuts have finally let up. I stick to the walls, make myself scarce as the foot traffic picks up around the halls. I change, pulling on my casual blues and double checking my belt before I head out again.

"Lance Corporal Blake," someone calls out, and I'm quick to turn around.

"Sir?" I take him in, grey hair, green eyes, and a face that makes me think he hasn't smiled in thirty years. I relax as I plaster on a smile, offering my hand. "You must be Commander Hicks."

His face moves into something akin to a smile, reaffirming my assumption that he doesn't do much more than frown very often, before he nods and shakes my hand twice. "It's a pleasure to have you."

I nod, "It's an honor, sir."

Hicks places his hands on his hips, "Well, I hope you're ready for today. It'll be tough, but I think I've picked a squad that's just right for you."

My heart does a little summersault, nerves jittering, before I take a breath. "I trust your judgement, Commander."

Hicks gives a chuckle, "You ready to meet them?"

"Born ready, sir."

I follow Commander Hicks down a hallway and into a debriefing room, taking in the computer screens and tablets littering nearly every available space. Several individuals stand on the other side of the room talking amongst themselves with their arms crossed and voices low. All of them wear their casual blues, the silver S.W.A.T. emblem gracing each shirt over their left side.

These were my squad members.

"20-squad, this is your new addition. Lance Corporal Lily Blake, this is 20-squad." Hicks nods his head in their direction, and suddenly all eyes are on me.

Five men, and one woman. All various ages, and all sporting mixed expressions. None of which seem too pleased, but not entirely hostile either.

I do my best to keep up a pleasant smile, "It's a pleasure to work with you."

One of them steps forward, charming smile and caramel skin. "I'm Sergeant Harrelson, but you can call me Hondo. Great to have you on the team."

I take his hand, "I go by Blake."

"Lance Corporal, a Marine?" His smile turns upwards a little more and a bit of pride graces his face when I nod.

He steps back as another member of the team comes forward, a much more familiar face. Jim shoots me a wink, "Didn't think I'd be seeing you so soon, Newbie! You didn't tell me you'd rank above me either."

I shrug, "I didn't think it was important to say."

He shakes his head with a laugh, and steps back so the others can take their turn introducing themselves to me. Luca, who reminds me an awful lot of the stereotypical surfer type, seems displeased with my arrival. Probably due to the impromptu recruitment and the fact that I didn't take their traditional route through the academy.

The last man forward was older. Chocolate brown eyes, built in stature, with salt and pepper hair. His smile was pleasant and practiced, but his eyes swam with emotions. "Sergeant David Kay. These guys call me Deacon."

He offered his hand, and I took it. "A pleasure, Deacon."

For some reason, his introduction stuck with me. The weight of his eyes, that practiced pleasantry, the roughness of his palm.

And the silver band on his ring finger.

[consiwrites]

Art Credit: Noah Thompson (https://nthompson.artstation.com)

Yay! I got more of this edited to a point where I’m happy with it. I also decided to make it part of the prologue so i need to write a transition for this part and the first part when i put it together. This took forever but I don’t want to rush on anything, i want characters i think would be curious ask about things since it is two very different worlds interacting with each other. Oh my god though, I am really wanting to just skip a lot of the little world building to write the parts I really wanna write. I have started those but I want to get the important beginnings of the whole story set up properly. Once again, thank you for reading, even if it’s just a little bit. I really just love sticking my ocs into other places out of their comfort zones even when i think i may write characters a bit ooc.

Story under the cut!

Prologue part 2:

Consi sat bundled up in his coat on the couch, staring down Nyx. A ghost it called itself. He knew he was in another world, he couldn’t rationally explain any of the creatures here. The only thing that looked even close to something similar back home was the human that looked like a hyur. Devrim Kay, the ghost called him.

Devrim stared Consi down as the ghost described how he had shown up in Maevic Square while it was searching for its future guardian. Consi wasn’t all too sure what happened in the haze of waking up and having to run when the howl of creatures sounded off. The ghost had called them Eliksni. Devrim was concerned. “Neither of you got injuries?” Devrim asked, looking over the ghost and Consi.

“The ghost…” Consi had to pause for a moment to remember the machine’s species. If it was even a species. “It got hit near its eye. It’s been flashing colors but otherwise we are okay.” Consi explained unsure of what was going to happen to him but Devrim wasn’t disturbed by his presence or how he looked. Not even his eyepatch unnerved him like it had others back home. Maybe there were other miqo’tes? He doubted it. He was hurt as well but compared to the ghost, he was just sore and probably bruised very badly at his neck and upper back. Maybe a mild concussion. He wasn’t sure. He still had the aetherical shield when he hit the pillar and blacked out.

“My optics got damaged but I am alright. I just cannot scan or send calls at the moment. Can you call for Ikora? She will understand what to do.” Nyx suggested to Devrim who nodded. Consi pulled his jacket closer to him. He didn’t like this but Devrim nor the ghost tried to hurt him so this had to be his safest bet. Nyx had lead him to what seemed to be safety. He listened as Devrim called Ikora on a device he didn’t recognize informing her of the situation.

Minutes went by in silence. Consi was exhausted from the ordeal. Being shot at was never fun and he was lucky none of the Eliksni could aim. Consi settled more into his spot on the couch, curling up against the arm of the couch. Devrim kept up his silent vigil in his church. The ghost hovered between them, bobbing up and down to entertain itself. Consi was wondering why it was still even here. Wasn’t it searching for someone?

Fu-wump!

Consi startled as a strange sound filled the church. He couldn’t tell what it was but from the chuckle coming from Devrim he knew it was nothing. “Relax. It is someone friendly. Never heard transmats before?” Devrim asked, teasing Consi. Consi shook his head as his tail fluffed up and curled around his legs. He’s never even heard of a transmat. “Ah. Don’t have them back home then I assume. Well don’t you worry. It must be Ikora and her Hidden.”

Both could hear chatter down below them but Consi couldn’t make it out with the sounds of Eliksni outside. The sounds forced Devrim to go back to his vigil while a woman and two people in armored robes came up the steps. Consi locked eyes with them, his ears pressing against his head.

These people were even more saturated in light then his husbands who were Warriors of Light back home. They held more light than the little ghost who guided him here. The woman–Ikora, Consi assumed–matched his gaze before turning to Devrim. “Is this who you were talking about Devrim?” She asked, sounding as stern as she looked.

His tail just wound tighter around him but he kept his hands away from his weapon. Consi couldn’t tell what the other two were thinking. They wore helmets that hid their faces but by their stances Consi could only assume they could sense the dark aether inside of him. He ignored Ikora and Devrim speaking with the little ghost. He kept his gaze on the two soldiers Ikora brought with her. He could see the knives and guns they held on their armor.

“Are you alright?” Consi jumped in his own skin before matching Ikora’s gaze that was now on him. He nodded. “No injuries? The ghost tells me you have had quite the journey.” She inquired calmly. Consi just nodded again, no need to worry about the bruising now. He crossed his arms to keep himself bundled up. She sighed softly. “I apologize if we scared you. We’ve not encountered a situation like this before. Will you come with us? Maybe we can find a way to help you and learn what has happened.” She suggested, holding a hand out to Consi who just stared at it.

Consi swallowed before reaching out, taking her hand. He stood up with her help. “Does anyone know where I am?” He asked hesitantly, unsure of how to go about any of this. “I don’t even know how I got here. I was in my home preparing to go to bed…” Consi started before stopping. He wasn’t even sure what happened. His memories were clear but this was strange even for the standards back home. Those were strange enough!

Nyx tucked itself in the collar of his jacket making him jump before it spoke. “You’re in the EDZ! I am not sure how long you have been out cold for but we’ll help you once I get fixed up. Right Ikora?” Consi saw Ikora nod. Well it helped his nerves but he still felt something may go wrong. “Please relax. I can feel your heart pounding. Ikora won’t hurt you. She’s stern but caring!”

Ikora simply smiled. Consi knew she was just being polite. “Nyx is right. We won’t hurt someone who needs help. We would like to ask a few questions but I can see you need rest. We’ll go about how to solve your problem as soon as you have rested and Nyx is fixed.” Ikora instructed, seeing Consi practically deflate with exhaustion. Consi nodded before both gave their goodbyes while Consi picked up his gunblade.

Consi’s heart skipped a beat when his surroundings suddenly changed. He nearly even dropped his gunblade! He could see he was on a ship above the ruined city. “I probably should have warned you.” He heard Nyx say while Ikora helped him sit down since he had began to sway. Consi kept quiet since it was possible he was dizzy from a concussion. “Transmatting for the first time can be disorienting.”

“Stay sitting and put on your seatbelt. This may be jarring for you. Does your home have space faring ships?” Ikora asked him to help him calm himself while he shakily put the seatbelt on with Nyx’s guidance.

“N-no. Well… There was only one and it got wrecked.” Consi told her. “We aren’t this advanced.” He took a few deep breaths before squeaking as the ship began moving in formation with two others. Consi gazed out the window, his breath taken away. “This… This is your home?”

“Yes. This is Earth. We are currently headed towards where we live. A place known as the Last City.” Ikora explained while her ghost piloted the ship. It took a few hours but soon the city came into view. To say the view was breathtaking would be disrespectful in Consi’s opinion. It was larger than any other city Consi has visited. It almost reminded him of Amaurot with the skyscrapers peeking up from the rest of the buildings inside the walls. “This is where we will be staying. You’ll be with me inside the Tower. It is the main area where guardians like myself and my Hidden reside.”

Consi couldn’t respond but a squeak left him as the ship lurched downwards. He settled down seeing the biggest tower come into view from the cockpit. He could see an area full of other ships while nerves began to take over. Ikora stood up while the ship landed, a cloak roughly his size appearing in her hands. “For now, wear this. I don’t want any trouble to come from our more trouble-making guardians. It’s been a rough few weeks.” She told him, frowning. Consi could tell as it had been daytime over the EDZ. He knew it had only been a short trip. Darkness like this wouldn’t happen that quick.

Consi unbuckled his seatbelt, pulling the cloak on before letting out confused hum as Nyx ducked into his cloak. “I want to stay nearby.” The ghost explained. Consi just left Nyx be.

Following Ikora proved to be difficult while trying to keep the cloak on. Her two Hidden joined them, having landed just a few minutes after. They kept Consi in sight and even helped him not get lost since Ikora was on a mission and moving quickly while Consi was trying to see what he could while following. The Tower was busy. People in armor were everywhere with all sorts of weapons attached to holsters or slung over their shoulders onto their backs.

“Come on, we’ll try to show you around when it is allowed. Ikora sadly has much to do.” The robed Hidden told him after resting a hand on his shoulder. Consi nodded, following both of them. He could feel the stares of a few people around him but paid them no mind so he could keep the hood on without it falling. It was rather uncomfortable for him but their journey across the tower soon led into what seemed to be a military operations base.

Ikora turned to him after they went toward a private room. “You can take your cloak off now. I apologize if that was uncomfortable.” She paused in the middle of the room, gesturing for him to enter the room while the two Hidden left. “We’ll be staying here for a bit. Just so you can rest but before then, may I please have a name?”

Consi’s eyes went wide before he smiled partially at Ikora. “You can call me Consi.” He began, “I didn’t realize I never gave my name to anyone… I’m sorry about that.”

“There is no need to apologize. It’s been a harrowing day for you. Now rest.” Her ghost appeared, creating a small bed though Consi couldn’t make out how her ghost did that. Nyx flew out of his cloak while Consi began to take it off. Ikora continued, “I’ll take Nyx with me to get them repaired. The Hidden outside will be there if you need them. Rest well Consi.” She left with a smile. The door created a small clicking sound as it closed behind her.

Consi set the cloak down on the chair before taking off his more protective coat and armored boots. “What a mess…” He muttered to himself before letting himself flop onto the bed on his side. He was now stuck here in a world so vastly different from his home. He didn’t even know if he was safe. Who were these people? Ikora seemed to be a leader. A frown tugged at his lips. He’ll have to ask or find out for himself. He didn’t want to become a prisoner again.

His eyes began to feel heavy as exhaustion tugged at him again. Rolling onto his side, Consi tugged up the blanket that had been given to him. It was rather comfortable and sleep came rather quickly, his nerves about the situation melting away with each soft breath.

Consi woke to warmth, the weight of a thick blanket, and the sound of a door creaking open. A soft groan left his lips while he slowly sat up, blinking the sleep out of his eyes. His neck was awfully sore, making it a bit difficult to turn his head but he made it work. A voice spoke up, causing Consi to cover his left eye quickly. He could see his eye patch slipped off in his sleep.

“Did we wake you?” Consi heard before focusing in on Ikora standing there while Nyx floated in the air beside her. He shook his head, picking up his eye patch. “Good. It looks like you slept well. We’ve been gone for most of the day.” She informed him while taking a seat in a nearby chair. Consi wrestled himself out of the blankets, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. “Are you hungry?” Another shake of his head no while he tied his eye patch on, securing it. “Alright.”

Minutes ticked by while Ikora patiently waited for Consi to wake up. He had slept like a rock and it was easy to see that. It didn’t take long for him to shake sleep from his brain and soon met her gaze. “Sorry… I didn’t expect to sleep so hard. How long has it been?” He asked, his ears perking up while Nyx darted over and nuzzling his head.

“You’ve been asleep for ten hours!” Nyx chimed in before Ikora could answer. “I’m all fixed up. Well as best as I could be.” Consi finally noticed the screen that made up Nyx’s ‘eye’ was still glitching out. He frowned but Nyx spun happily. “I don’t mind! As long as I can do everything else, it’ll be good.”

“They didn’t want to take him apart. They were worried it would have damaged his optics more than they already were.” Ikora explained while sitting there patiently with a tablet now in her hands. Another few awkward minutes passed by while Consi stared down Ikora tapping away on her tablet. He could see a blank page being brought up before the tablet disappeared in a shimmer of light. “May I ask that we start with a few questions? Nyx showed me how you appeared in the square, however, I am not sure what you remember or what you are.” Consi simply nodded. “May I know what you are Consi?”

He paused, unsure of how to approach this. His tail curled and flicked while he thought about how to explain what he is. Does he tell her that he’s a miqo’te? Does he explain how he’s fused to the darkness or leave that out for now? Consi shifted in his spot. “I am what people back home call a Miqo’te. We simply have feline features.” Consi explained, pausing for a moment. “We also have a bit easier time with jumping and eyesight. Not as well as other creatures but compared to other humans we’re a bit more agile. I’m a mix between two sub-races, but the differences between the two are minimal in my opinion.”

Ikora politely listened to the whole explanation. “Are there other races to humanity? We don’t see many differences like animal features on humans here.” She questioned. He could hear she was curious at how diverse his home was.

“There are many races, though some aren’t human like but have human intelligence. There are the Au ri, a race of people with horns, lizard like tails, and scales. The Elezen, which are the closest to regular Hyur. They are simply taller and have more pointed ears. Hyur which are like you just without powers if they weren’t mages.” Consi paused trying to go down the list in his mind. “The Lalafell which are miniature Hyur’s. They have pointed ears and averaged around a maximum of three feet tall.” Ikora looked surprised at this but didn’t interrupt. “The Hrothgar which are the more animalistic type of race. They remind me of lions. There are many beastkin as well. The list is long and I’m not sure how to describe them to you. Our creatures may differ.”

“That’s alright. We can always have this conversation again if you are comfortable with it.” Consi agreed with a nod. Ikora moved on. “Do you remember how you got here?”

“Vaguely. I was preparing to go to bed within my apartment. I remember hearing mechanical sounds that didn’t match the noises of the pipework that run my home or the hums of my generators. A rustling of leaves too but none of my plant-life was moving.” Consi’s eyebrows furrowed together, a frown forming on his lips. “I remember being tugged into a bright light with something beeping at me almost screeching. I don’t remember how I escaped though I know I made my armor appear as I’m in it right now. I know I was tackled into another portal before being tossed by whatever chased me and firing a shot from my gunblade at it. I don’t remember much after that. I know I hit something and the force knocked me unconscious.”

Ikora kept quiet while Consi finished his story. “Your entrance matches what Nyx showed me. You had hit a concrete pillar of a ruined building in Maevic Square. Luckily, you weren’t unconscious for long. We’ll have to get you checked for any damage you can’t feel.” Ikora said aloud, glancing to her side where her ghost appeared. It spun its shell knowing what it was being asked for. “May I see your back? I called for a medic.” 

Consi frowned a bit before nodding, tugging at the collar of his shirt. He pulled his shirt gently, slowly pulling it up over his head. He glanced over at Ikora who he knew was immediately making note of the markings on his skin. Swallowing back his nerves, he shifted to the left on the bed to give Ikora room before she settled on the bed beside him. 

“The back of your neck is bruised badly. I’m surprised you even woke up.” She commented, running her fingers along the bruise lightly. Consi couldn’t help but grab onto the bed tightly. It hurt. Even the lightest touch made the area tender and sent a dull pain across his shoulders. Ikora didn’t say anything to that, nor did Consi. 

A knock at the door. “Come in.” Ikora commanded. The door slowly opened and a lady stepped in. She seemed middle aged. Consi wasn’t sure. She didn’t have many wrinkles, her face was narrow, and her fiery orange hair was pulled back into a bun. He noticed quickly that she held a lack of Light. Lightless? 

“Hey! You called for me?” She began, not mentioning Consi’s appearance. He watched her begin to walk closer, holding her tablet where she could type. 

“Yes. I believe he may have gotten a concussion after we found him.” Ikora explained. “He’s got bruising on the back of his neck and shoulders that seem to be tender.”

Consi kept quiet, unsure why the lady was typing away on her tablet about his problem before producing a small tool from the bag at her hip. “Can I look at your eyes?” She asked him. 

His ears went back. His right eye isn't… normal to put it lightly. He didn’t want any of them to see it. Consi frowned but he'll allow it. There’s no need to hide anything from them. “Yes…” He murmured. He let the lady maneuver his head keeping his right eye open for her to look at.

“This may be bright so I apologize for any discomfort. Tell me if it hurts your eye.” She warned before a light flashed in his eye.

Consi hissed as he recoiled. His eyes watered and he blinked. He could feel Ikora’s hand hovering at his back. “What the fuck?” He complained, keeping quieter as his head was beginning to hurt.

“I’m sorry. I needed to check and see if your eye would react to bright light. Good news is that it does. Bad news is that you seem to be sensitive to bright light at the moment. Is that normal for you?”

“No!” He moved his hand off his eye, blinking to get the rest of the tears out of his eye. “Sparked a headache too.” He informed her while wiping his eye. 

“May I check your other eye? I won’t flash the bright light this time.” She was patient. Consi was glad for that. He hesitantly tugged at his eyepatch before pulling it off. He kept it closed for a moment till deciding to open it slowly. “Oh my… What happened to this eye?” She questioned, gently maneuvering his head so she could see it better. “It looks like a small galaxy took over your entire eye.” 

He kept quiet, swallowing back his nerves as he could see Ikora staring down his left eye. Consi sat back as the medic let go of his head and began asking him questions. Where was he? What’s his name? Questions he knew helped her figure out if the hit affected his mental functions. He did tell her about the headache. At the end of the examination, she declared he most likely did have a mild concussion and needed to rest. He simply nodded, knowing he was going to do that anyway. Not much he could do here.

After the medic left, Consi was left awkwardly sitting across from Ikora. He had already put his shirt back on. He wasn’t comfortable with the staring. Ikora was the first to break the silence.

“Now, I must pry a bit as you know we can sense the darkness in you and it is plain to see what it has done to your body. My Hidden told me about it and how defensive you were at first. We do not mean any harm as you’ve not caused any issues but as a Vanguard of our city…” Ikora trailed off seeing Consi grow tense. Both knew what she was going to say. She needed to know in case any danger was brought to her home. “Please tell me.”

Consi didn’t meet her eyes, trying to formulate an answer while Nyx hovered by his side to try and comfort him. He swallowed heavily before looking up. “I am sorry. I wasn’t prepared to sense as much light as I did. No one back home has as much as you and your guardians do. I thought I was in danger.” He explained before taking a deep breath to ease his anxiety. “I guess this needs a bit of context. Back home we have what we call Warriors of Light. They hold the blessing of the once primal or god of light that lived in our universe.” He leaned forward a bit, resting his elbows on his thighs. “They are our champions or really protectors if they know they have it.

“We all know the stories of the light versus the dark. For a long time we didn’t know about this but there is an antithesis to the Warriors of Light. They are just more rare.” Consi continued, swallowing back his nerves. “I am one of those but not by choice. Their fight has long been over with but… The effects of it still linger. We all still have our blessings. I had to lean into mine to survive it.”

“If you don’t mind me asking, how did you lean into it?”

“I’m not sure how to explain how I did it but our home has other worlds however, we can’t travel through space. These worlds also aren’t connected through space but by rifts that cut through the veil between the Source and its thirteen reflections.” Consi informed her, waving his hands a few times, trying to think of how to explain it. “I went to the world that was consumed by darkness in a failed attempt to rejoin it.” He knew that would make no sense but he didn’t want to give a history lesson. “I am fused to the darkness due to what I did, however, I’m not comfortable sharing that. I guess you could say I willingly corrupted myself to survive.”

“While I would like to know more I will not pry for now. It explains the darkness that we can feel from you.” Ikora reassured him. “Thank you for explaining it to me.” Consi knew she was being diplomatic despite the curiosity that filled her eyes. He thought she must be a scholar at heart despite her leadership role. “And your eye patch? Why do you wear it?”

“The fusion changed how my left eye looked as you saw. I can still see through it but most find it disturbing to look at.” Consi told her, glancing down at the floor. “I keep it on to hide it.” Ikora nodded, understanding the logic. Silence filled the air for a few moments as Consi watched her type into her tablet. He wasn’t surprised she was taking notes. He didn’t even find it rude. Simply something he was used to due to his condition.

 “I think that will be enough questions. I do not believe you are any danger to us, if you need a place to stay we can provide one. I know a few people who may be able to help you find a way home once we solve the problem of this Endless Night.”

Consi looked surprised before relaxing. “A place to stay would be nice. I am not entirely useless. I may be able to help.” He offered.

“We do not wish to risk your life. You only have one.” She informed him. “You can stay here for now in the H.E.L.M. I can try to explain as much as I can about our world to you though I feel you may get overwhelmed.” She paused, taking a moment to think. “I will be too busy to answer them all but I know of two who may be able to help you more than I can. They won’t be back for a few days however.”

Consi tilted his head, one ear perking up before flicking. “Well… I am stuck here for the unforeseeable future. I can take it slow.” He watched as Ikora nodded in agreement before sitting back down in her chair.

“Of course. I have a few hours as well. What would you like to know?”

[mimble-sparklepudding]

Ishgardian Starlight Celebration

Mimble (and his puppy) are enjoying the Ishgardian Starlight Celebration, especially the various seasonal treats.

For those of you with Ishgardian OCs, or OCs with links to Ishgard, what are some of your ideas or headcanons about the celebrations and your characters involvement in them?

For example...

Does Francel of @aroseyetbloomedwrites arrange special events for the children of The Firmament and their families? Does he receive any gifts from the people?

Does Aymeric escort Hali of @firelightmuse to view the richly decorated manses of The Pillars? Or perhaps accompany her to a Starlight Ball in her honour?

Do Meeps (@meepsthemiqo) and Emmanellain visit his family over the Starlight period? How does she feel about this? Do the children enjoy playing in the snow?

Does A'vett (@avettabendrot) have any special bakes for the Starlight Celebration? Is there an Ishgardian Stollen? Or does he fashion a Gingerbread Tribunal to display in the shop window?

What starlit romance awaits Kai (@kissstealkai) amongst the glittering frost and flickering candlelight?

How involved is Faiolan of @mirageofthecrystal in House Penderghast's Starlight Celebrations? Does his House adapt their celebrations to further their goal of bringing Ishgardian society together?

Does Rulian of @miqomischief / @rulianbadeux actually get any time off over the Starlight Celebration? What events or functions does he attend? And what gifts does he get for his husbands?

Does Mercer of @furys-mercy take some time away from his workshop and clandestine activities to celebrate the season? Does he ever donate mechanical toys to be gifted to the children of The Firmament?

What does Akhutai of @scales-claws-and-thorns make of all this talk of families and emotional closeness? Is there anything about the celebration that he enjoys?

Has Ichelle de Fortemps (@loldragoon-ffxiv) found ways to use the Starlight Celebration to advance her more socially progressive aims? Is there a way in which she could use the occasion to make a diplomatic gesture to strengthen Ishgard's relationship with the Dravanians?

Does Xynal of @kskellington find Ishgard beautiful at this time of the year? Or is there some ambivalence about the celebration for him? Will he be marking the occasion with his husbands? What gift would please him most?

Does Fennie of @scholarlostintime bring in any Ishgardian Starlight Celebration traditions to help his children learn about their cultural heritage and history? (maybe not the salt rock though)

How will Drac (@draculas-husband) and Count Edmont be spending the Starlight Celebration? Would they be happy with a big family occasion or would they prefer something quieter and more intimate?

And lastly can there ever be enough sparkling lights and cocoa to reconcile Inxli (@pinxli) to the cold!

(If you're not already following any of the above blogs, I strongly recommend you check them out, there are some amazing characters and stories to be found).

As for me, my humble Ishgardian Starlight Holiday Headcanon is that this would be what Ishgardian festive music might sound like - ideal for having in the background of a Starlight Candlelit Dinner or even a Starlit Stroll...

Apologies to any Ishgard-linked blogs I left out - I have to go to bed now!

[r0semaryt3a]

Another oc rant because I need to talk about Edith, Therian and Avangelin.

“When people are looked down upon time and time again. They start to believe the sky is indeed not the limit - but the point of life. A person so consumed by gaining the vantage point others held above them will never see eye to eye.

Grab their chin and force them.”

Avangelin spent her entire youth under scrutiny, a pawn in a larger scheme. Never once held as a person, as the child she was. She was an exchange to be made. And, as a result of this, she grew up craving control - the idea of standing above others is etched into her skull, a carnal desire in need of fulfilling. It’s actually why it’s fairly ironic that in death she (quite literally) stands above people, being 9’8’’.

This desire for control is present in two characters especially: Edith Kathryn-Kay and Therian Loverman.

Edith is the main point in Avangelin’s arc. Avangelin is by far the worst in the White Rabbit arc, with Edith at the forefront of this horror. For Edith as a whole is a slate, a perfect puppet; Avangelin takes advantage of that more than anyone. The thing is, it passes the point where it actually benefits Avangelin. Manipulating Edith makes sense under the guise of her being the new Force captain and having her wrapped around the Angel’s fingers would be very advantageous. Especially given how justice prone Edith is. However, Avangelin surpasses this point. Edith’s biggest sin is falling in love and rather quickly at that, Avangelin manages to manipulate Edith relatively easily.

But, the thing is, she doesn’t stop.

In fact, Avangelin goes so far that her actions begin going against the Provenances. There’s no reason for it. Avangelin’s manipulation of Edith is purely for the fix it gives her - Avangelin commits actual crimes against her post purely for the sake of having her own little game with the captain. Her actions are all to further the twisted play date she’s curated. It is only for the taste of complete and utter control it gives her, there’s no other reason; it’s why it’s by far the worst point of her character. It’s vile, pure vitriol. Avangelin is usually this charismatic and calculated woman whose every move furthers her own ends and the Provenances’ by extension. Edith doesn’t. It’s nonsensical.

And eventually, Edith breaks.

Which then leaves Avangelin bored. Her new toy broke too soon and she fizzles out for a while.

The next time Avangelin actually holds much precedence is after a snide comment from Lucid. One about Therian. If Edith was Avangelin’s worst then Therian is her turning point: her eye to eye. For the first time ever, Avangelin has no need to control. She’s not looked down upon, she’s held at an equal level, standing on steady ground. Of course, Avangelin as a character is odd: even after this “redemption arc” she doesn’t regret her actions (well aside from arguably Edith). “The devil holds my hand, I hold the devil’s in tow.” Is her signature line. She cannot escape the woman she was, so there’s no point in regretting actions she knows full well she’d repeat over and over if it got her to where she is now. But, Therian still stands as this pillar that gets her to that point, a person that doesn’t see her as less or more than themselves. To Therian Avangelin is just: Avangelin.

And personally? She couldn’t be happier.

@hamishfish @cl-0v3r - I’m gonna just start tagging people that I want feedback on posts from atp

[pbear]

Yugioh OC Week Day 6: Link Vrains

Infodumping about my VRAINS OCs (Ravyn, Adira, Cyrus, Kai, Asher). They move to Den City together and live in the same apartment while going to school at the academy. Then, they end up getting somewhat involved in the plot. This is very long since there are five OCs so I'm putting four of them under the cut.

@ygoc-week

Ravyn Kusari

Ravyn is a girl with black hair that falls at her shoulders and dark brown eyes.

Very quiet. Opens up more around her friends though.

She's very intuitive and good at reading emotions, especially if she looks someone directly in the eye. Her friends call it her superpower.

She's a programmer which makes her useful in the virtual world.

Has a crush on Asher. Everyone but him knows about it.

Her and Adira are like sisters. Adira tries to pull her out of her comfort zone.

She relates to Kai a lot as two most reserved in the group.

She's probably the least closest with Cyrus. She knows he won't break Adira's heart but she'd be on him if he did.

Her VRAINS alias is Reaper

Her avatar has long with hair loosely tied in a twist braid and electric blue eyes. She dresses in black clothes and has a tattered gray cloak with chains trailing off it.

Ravyn also programmed herself a scythe with a glowing blue blade that can forcefully push someone out of the virtual world if they're hit with it.

Her and her friends use only Link monsters at first and then gain more summoning methods as they're introduced in the show.

Reaper uses a Midnight Deck. It revolves around DARK monsters that have effects that let you take control of your opponent's monsters and also give them the DARK attribute so you can use them for Link summons.

Later, she also runs Xyz monsters in her deck. Her ace is Thundero of the Stormy Skies, a giant stormcloud in the shape of a bird. She utilizes Rank-Up-Magic cards to bring out more powerful Xyz monsters.

Adira Tsuyoi

Adira is a tall girl with brown hair tied back in a ponytail most of the time and hazel eyes.

She's quite outgoing and outwardly friendly to people.

Like the support pillar of the group. Very empathetic.

Loves arts and crafts. She makes little things for her friends all the time like bracelets, small charms, or tiny clay statues.

She's dating Cyrus. Their friends gag anytime they do anything lovey-dovey. They work very well (absolute power couple getting things done together).

Adira is very protective of Ravyn and teases her about her crush. She cares about her a lot and her wellbeing overall.

She likes to poke fun at Asher

Kai's personality is very opposite of hers so she has a little more trouble connecting with him but she does care about him.

In the VRAINS, Adira goes by Windbreaker

Her avatar has auburn hair tied into twin braids, brown eyes, and she's dressed like an aviator (with the goggles, hat, jacket).

Her archetype is called Sky Surfer. It's a deck made up of WATER, WIND, and LIGHT monsters named after different weather phenomenons (sleet, breeze, sunset, etc.). Her Extra Deck monsters are named after phenomenons that are more geared towards natural disasters/intense natural events (typhoon, heat wave, blizzard, etc.)

Her deck revolves around increasing her monsters' ATK while decreasing the ATK of her opponent's monsters.

Later, she incorporates Xyz and Synchro monsters into her deck too. Her ace is the Synchro monster Sky Surfer - Thunderstorm.

Cyrus Hikari

One of two twins but him and his brother couldn't look more different. Cyrus has curly dark brown hair and brown eyes.

He's very charismatic and charming to people who first meet him. Natural born leader.

He's dating Adira and loves her very much. She supports him a lot which helps him accomplish more things.

Truly cares about his brother but sometimes overlooks him.

Enjoys talking to Asher. (I don't really have a dynamic for them yet)

Doesn't feel like he quite understands Ravyn, but he admires her skills.

His VRAINS persona is named Solarflare.

His avatar has his same curly brown hair and amber eyes. He wears armor that emits this yellow glow.

Cyrus uses a Flare Dragon deck that is a bunch of Light attribute dragons.

He starts out with only Link monsters but later it becomes a Ritual deck too with "Altar" ritual spells. His ace is the Ritual monster Galactic Flare Dragon.

(Clearly he's the one I have the least on)

Kai Hikari

Kai has red hair that's slightly wavy and dark green eyes.

He's pretty introverted and reserved. It's a lot easier for him to focus when he's by himself.

An artist. He mostly works with paper and pencil as his medium. Carries his sketchbook with him at all times.

Knows he's very different from his brother and feels like he's constantly in Cyrus' shadow with all his brother's accomplishments.

Confides in Ravyn sometimes and relates to her, especially when she struggles with her relationship with Asher.

Him and Asher are like the two bystanders that watch their friends' chaos go on from the sidelines.

Adira is more like Cyrus than Kai, very forward and whatnot. He's a little scared of her forwardness.

Kai's VRAINS persona is Inferno

His hair turns bright red and his eyes are blue. He wears this armor that looks like a flickering flame when he moves.

He uses a Flame deck. Its monsters range from tiny to giant beings made of fire. His deck focuses on dealing effect damage.

He later uses Synchro monsters in his deck. His ace is the Synchro monster Mafiaran the Underworld Flame.

Asher Kanashimi

Asher is one of the taller members of the group. He has wavy ginger hair and pale green eyes.

He's a musician and can play the guitar, piano, and flute.

Wants to write more songs but kind of lacks the inspiration to do so.

He's known Ravyn the longest. They met in second grade.

Knows how headstrong Adira is and doesn't try to stand in her way or stop her from teasing him.

Gets along with Cyrus and Kai. The twins are like two ends of a spectrum where Asher is the middle.

His VRAINS alias is Greyhound.

He's dressed like a racer in a purple and gray outfit. His hair becomes a sandy blonde but his eyes are still green.

His deck is called Mech-Canines. It's a bunch of mechanical dogs named after different breeds. Special Summoning from the Extra Deck is a big part of his deck because his monsters' effects activate when they're sent to the Graveyard or part of a Fusion Summon.

He later starts using Fusion monsters alongside Link monsters. His ace is the Fusion monster Mech-Canine Cerberus.

(I have not made any Link monsters for him though)

[doublegoblin]

Song to OC

Rules: Assign a song that fits the vibe of your OC.

Thank you to @asterhaze for the tag! This is certainly an interesting one!

Whoms't've to no pressure tag: @angie-j-kay @randomstupidchaos @conkers-theficwriter @hallwriteblr

I'll be going through the songs for Alex the POV character from Rituals and Red Tape. With a little bonus at the end~

Try to not take the lyrics too much into account, as is for the vibe!

Okay so I'll be honest and say I had not seen what the english for this song was until just recently (like putting this together recently) and dang, the lyrics fit the vibe more than I thought they would ^^;;.

What I had in my mind original was, well, and opening to a show. The first big bass hit would have been a big stack of paperwork being placed on Alex's desk. Then just like a montage of stuff.

Really they want to just exist in this world with no issues, but, other dreamers make problems and so they need to fix those problems; otherwise they risk a talking to by Dave, oh and reality would come undone too so that wouldn't be great either.

The vibe I try to go for with Alex is an overtired and burnt out office worker/park ranger kind of thing.

Now don't get it twisted though, they may be tired and burnt out but they are not going to let their team down. During their most difficult times they look back on everything, everyone that is counting on them and they rise to the occasion. They also use this past knowledge and experience to try and uplift those around them so they don't sink. In a place where time doesn't matter, the body you are in is just a vehicle to experience the world, and you are so removed from your waking self you are an entirely different person; it's can be taxing to always pick yourself up and keep going. Eternity is a really big thing.

No big text for this, just the vibe of when Alex first came to the dream reality. This band also has a song that was the inspiration/unlocked the writer block, for the final confrontation of the book~

NOW FOR BONUS

Dave-

You go into your boss' office for an employee review. It's a gray coast line, obsidian pillars start to rise from the ocean, and the sky break open. You forgot your employee handbook, what do you do now?

[risualto]

Mutually Inclusive (Pillars of Eternity)

Title: Mutually Inclusive Summary: Two Watchers and their boyfriends walk into a bar... No, that’s too easy.  Two Watchers end up in the same bar due to some reality-crossing nonsense and vaguely bond over having feelings for alternate versions of the same two men, but only one of them is aware of it.  Yes, that sounds about right for a Watcher’s Monday. Warnings: vague mention of being watched Notes: Happy birthday to @haledamage, a beautiful person with brilliant stories and one of the most wonderful hearts I’ve had the pleasure of knowing.  You suggested a kiss on the cheek with Kai and Tai Lon, and I decided to take the opportunity to point out that my own mother was inspired to make Tai Lon romance both Aloth and Edér after I told her about “Home Sweet Home.”  So this happened.  I hope you like it, and I hope you’ve had a wonderful birthday.

The weirdest part of this particular interaction wasn’t the fact that it was a once-in-a-millennium celestial event, that some people were claiming to see visions of spirits, or that it seemed like realities were overlapping. All of that was almost typical as far as the Watcher of Caed Nua was concerned.  Tai Lon absently wondered how bad her headache would be after this…and then whether Watchers in every reality had as dizzying of a fallout from visions.

Because the weirdest part was Aloth and Edér. In this reality, the one Tai Lon had tripped into while trying to make her way back to her friends at the tavern, things seemed perfectly ordinary at first.  She hadn’t even noticed that things had shifted until she got to her table to find her crew missing, replaced by a red-headed woman in adventuring clothes much like her own.  If the fact that this woman, now that Tai Lon was looking, seemed more solid than the rest of the room didn’t give away who she was, the trinket at her side would have.

It was the same one Tai Lon carried, a spoil from her adventures in the Deadfire…one that should have been unique.

“Hello, Watcher,” said the red-haired woman—also an elf—when she saw Tai Lon.  Her voice seemed to tilt with a light smirk that Tai Lon felt in the depths of her soul: well, this may as well happen today, and at least the world isn’t ending yet.

“Hello, yourself,” Tai Lon said, coming to a stop by the table.

“If you’re looking for someone who’s supposed to be here, you might as well just sit down,” said the other Watcher, nudging the chair next to her out from the table.  “It’ll right itself eventually, and walking away and coming back won’t do anything.”

Tai Lon sat, dropping tray of ale in her hands onto the table in front of her.  The bottom of it, for just a second, seemed to dip into the table, like it was made of gelatin instead of wood, and the edges between the objects went fuzzy for a second before righting themselves.  Tai Lon sighed, blinking away the disorientation.  “I’m aware,” she said, not unkindly, but with the full intention of showing how unimpressed she was with the whole situation.

The other woman laughed sharply, but her smile was genuine.  “Well, I’m Kai,” she said.

“Oh, ha-ha,” Tai Lon said.  She held out a hand.  “Tai Lon.”

Kai took it and shook once. “I wonder,” she said, putting her hand back on the table, “how it’s possible so many Watchers ended up in this same town on this day for this event.”

“I’m willing to bet the gods are fucking with us,” Tai Lon said bluntly, crossing her legs under the table.

Kai groaned, rubbing her forehead, cursing so colorfully under her breath that Tai Lon wondered if she had grown up around sailors.  “Oh, I’m sure they think this is hilarious,” she said.  “It’s either that or that there’s so many realities that the overlap is inevitable…and strangely, I find that more comforting.”

Tai Lon picked up the mug of ale meant for her and took a long sip, eyes fixed on the other elf as she spoke, glimmering with a smile.  “I think I like you,” she said simply.

It was then that Tai Lon noticed a commotion from near the bar.  When she looked over, noting that the farther she tried to focus from this other Watcher, the hazier everything became, she could see it was a game of some kind, one that Edér had just won a round of judging by the cheering.  Aloth hovered nearby, though he almost blended into the shadows in the corner.  If Tai Lon hadn’t known he should be there (because Edér was, because she—rather, the Watcher—was), she might not have noticed.  And maybe because it was easy to see him, or maybe just because she always looked for the best hiding places in a room, she noticed something strange in the corner table, too, though it was too far to make out the details.

“You’re all up to something,” Tai Lon said, glancing at Kai.

“Oh, usually,” Kai answered airily before she laughed.  “Chasing a lead on the Key.  Your Aloth wasn’t adamant about it?”  Tai Lon gave her a look.  “I know. Anyway, at the moment, they’re both looking to see if anyone reacts…”

Whatever else Kai was saying—and to be fair, it faintly registered as a well-thought-out plan in Tai Lon’s opinion, designed to zero in on anyone particularly suspicious—it all faded momentarily as Tai Lon looked back towards the game table just in time to see Edér tug Aloth closer by the arm and say something.  It didn’t quite carry, but Tai Lon focused—

Kiss for luck?

Edér, honestly.  Here?

Yeah, 'less you’re invitin’ me upstairs already?

Aloth rolled his eyes, and Tai Lon was sure that would be that.  Only it wasn’t.  He leaned over, kissed Edér on the cheek, and then stood back up to prop an arm on the back of Edér’s chair.  If not for the blush on his cheeks, Tai Lon would have said he managed to look imperious, somehow, in the middle of a tavern.  Edér, on the other hand, was grinning like the cat that got the cream.

Something stirred in Tai Lon’s chest as she looked at them, like a dam had been released in her mind as all of a sudden, she was wondering.  This Aloth looked and spoke like hers, of course, and so did Edér, and yet there was something very different.  Not just in that they were together, but that Edér was willing to be, that Aloth was so comfortable with it.

“I’m guessing things played out differently for you, then,” Kai said pointedly, eyes suddenly as sharp as cut glass.

Tai Lon chuckled, ducking her chin momentarily as she realized how her interest must have looked.  (Of course, if she’d looked over a few seconds before, she would have seen how Kai was looking at them—equally interested, but her admiration was softer, more secure.)  “Seems like there’s a lot of ways all of this can end up, huh,” she mused.  Her fingers drummed nonsensically on the uneven wood as she glanced one more time at the boys.  Her boys?  She’d always thought of them like that, but it always sounded a little discordant since she was only dating one of them, never mind that she’d also…

Her eyes flicked to that table behind where Aloth had been sitting, looking for a distraction.  Whoever was there couldn’t see Tai Lon, of course; she’d figured that out the first time realities had merged like this.  Which meant it was incredibly obvious that whoever was there was eyeing Kai from the one spot in the room Edér and Aloth couldn’t see.

“I’ve only met one other Watcher tonight who’s dating them both,” Kai said.  The words jarred Tai Lon out of her train of thought, making her shiver and nearly tense like she’d been hit with a lightning spell.  Kai kept talking like she hadn’t just shaken Tai Lon’s whole world. “I’m sure there’s others, though, even if we don’t…meet like this.  But as far as I’ve seen, there’s no universe in which I—we—whichever has more meaning, I suppose—don’t love them in some way.”

“That’s true,” Tai Lon said, summoning all of the diplomacy she’d learned since Gilded Vale to keep her voice steady.  “I know I don’t think I’d have made it this far without them.  Without everyone, but those two…they’ve been here from the beginning.”

“They’re something special,” Kai agreed.  She took a sip of whatever drink was in front of her and then laughed softly.  Joining her, Tai Lon felt so light that it was almost an unhinged feeling.  Was it possible in her world, too, that things could work like this, or had the chance already passed them by?  Sitting here, in this tavern where reality went a little fuzzy around the edges, it didn’t seem so far out of reach.

Maybe it was something she should consider. Think about properly.  The two most important people in her life, the ones with whom she always saw herself in the future…

Something shifted in the room, a little like the feeling of the world slipping from under Tai Lon’s feet when a vision gripped her, and she and Kai looked at each other.  The other elf’s features flickered for a second, growing misty before coming back into focus.

“There we go,” Kai said, glancing around.  She raised her glass.  “It’s been a pleasure, Tai Lon.”

“Believe me when I say that the pleasure was mine,” Tai Lon answered, clinking her ale against Kai’s own drink.  “Thank you, Kai.”

And before she could think better of it, Tai Lon held her breath, leaned over the arm of her chair, and gave the other Watcher a quick, shy kiss on the cheek.  “And your guy’s at the table over Aloth’s shoulder.  Good luck,” she whispered as she sat back, smiling as the two realities disentangled themselves with a whisper of essence.

She found herself back by the bar, still standing there, with the tavernkeeper giving her a bit of a weird stare.  Quickly waving him off, she hurried back to the table (noting that her drink wasn’t quite full, because even though she apparently hadn’t moved, physics and time were optional, apparently) where her boys were waiting.

Something special, indeed, she thought as they both smiled at her.  Something to think about.

[ravenquingvax]

Once again playing Pillars Of Eternity 2 Deadfire and I play a female dwarf Rogue x Priest Of Berath called Kai and have a party full of custom adventurers.

So I'm upstairs in The Kraken's Eye chasing away that inn guest who has overstayed his welcome and won't pay.

I like to talk to every NPC i run into and end up saying hi to the ripple sponge guy just before I leave the second floor.

Walking away, I hear the NPC's companion comment "she was very small!" and the NPC is like "you're the same height as her??? You're both dwarves??? You're not that high??? What the fuck???"

And this fucker is like, "am I??? I'm a dwarf??? What???"

(not in those words, obvs, but you get the gist)

And it was so funny to me.

Fucking love this game.

[ask-kaihassaku-kny]

Are you aware of the hashiras, the twelve moons or even a trio of demon slayers roaming by?

Kai: poor little girl though..

[ma-serannas-vhenan]

In-Character Interview

Choose an OC.

Answer the questions as that OC.

Tag 5 people to do the same (tag as many as you wish)

Thank you @forestdragoncat for the tag!

As it is with Kai at the moment, this'll just be for PoE1.

1. What is you name?

"Kai Techternity. Only a few people call me that at present however, I'm known as 'Watcher' now. It's not by any choice of mine."

2. Do you know why you are named that?

Her eyes narrowed a fraction, "I don't know whose idea it was to name me Kai, probably my mother's. As for Techternity, it belonged to my former master. I claimed the name as my own once he. . . passed." She glanced down briefly before shaking her head.

3. Are you single or taken?

"It is. . ." She paused, mouth twisting into a slight grimace. "It's complicated. But if someone were to approach me I would turn them away without a second thought."

4. Have any abilities or powers?

"Besides being able to see and commune with the dead? And being able to see random kiths' pasts?" She raised a brow and smirked. "Not at present, though a close friend of mine has sparked my curiosity in the arcane. I hope to learn."

5. Stop being a Mary Sue.

"Mary Sue?" She frowned, tilting her head. "I've met someone by that name. A kind woman, owner of an inn on the outskirts of Aedyr. Never tried to be her however, so I don't know what you mean."

6. What's your eye color?

"An ice blue, though Edér once referred to them as 'blue fire.'"

7. How about your hair color?

She absently tucked a loose lock behind her ear, "Grey."

8. Have any family members?

"No." Her gaze hardened. "None that are alive."

9. Oh? How about pets?

A small genuine smile curved her lips and she brushed her fingers down the spine of the pearl white wurm resting in her lap, "Yes, many. I take in any animal in need of care or a home."

10. That's cool, I guess. Now tell me something you don't like?

"Loud places, brash actions, killing without just cause, abuse of any kind," her fingers flexed briefly. "Unjust gods."

11. Do you have any activities/hobbies that you like to do?

"I play the flute, dance. . ." She shifted. "Carve wooden toys for children."

12. Have you ever hurt anyone in any way before?

"Yes, unfortunately. You can't live in a world like this and not hurt people."

13. Ever. . . killed anyone before?

She fingered a large scar on her forearm, "Yes, many."

14. What kind of animal are you?

"I. . . am not an animal." She raised a brow, "I'm a pale elf."

15. Name your worse habits.

"I frequently go long periods of time without eating. I pick my scabs," she bit her lip, "And I regularly bite the skin off my lips."

16. Do you look up to anyone at all?

"I do, my former master. I aspire to keep his view of the world."

17. Are you gay, straight, or bisexual?

"None of those. Demisexual."

18. Did you attend school?

She shook her head, "No, though I was taught how to read by my master and regularly do so."

19. Ever want to marry and have kids one day?

"I never really thought about it, but I suppose I might marry in the future. If certain things fell the right way." A small smile pulled at her lips. "As for children, I have Vela. If she is the only child I ever have, I won't weep."

20. Do you have any fangirls/fanboys?

She grimaced, "If you refer to the overly enthusiastic people I occasionally meet on the street, then yes."

21. What are you most afraid of?

She gave a tight smile, "I don't see how that's any of your concern."

22. What do you usually wear?

"Practical clothing that is comfortable and that I can fight in, with the color scheme of magenta and dark grey." She adjusted her hat, smoothing one of the feathers, "My tricorn is a must however."

23. What's one food that temps you?

"I do. . . not think I have one. However, living in the Dyrwood has made me very appreciative of Aedyran food."

24. Am I annoying you?

"Slightly, but do continue. I don't think I can make you stop."

25. Well, it's not over!

"As I thought," she murmured, nodding once.

26. What class are you (low/middle/high)?

"I am a monk, and before that an orphan. But now? I am the Lady of Caed Nua." She crossed her arms loosely, "Low? Middle? Somewhere in-between?"

27. How many friends do you have?

"More than I deserve," some emotion flashed in her eyes. "I treasure everyone who considers me such."

28. What are your thoughts on homemade pie?

"Very enjoyable, though not something I indulge in often."

29. Favorite drink?

"Water. But recently, on occasion, I enjoy Aedyran red wine."

30. What's your favorite place?

"Since I acquired Caed Nua I have come to think of it as a type of home, something I've never had." She tugged on her bottom lip before nodding.

31. Are you interested in anyone?

"Back to those questions are you?" Her eyes narrowed, "If you must know, yes"

32. That was a stupid question.

She smirked, "There are no stupid questions, only ridiculous ones."

33. Would you rather swin in a lake or the ocean?

"I prefer wide rivers."

34. What's your type?

She crossed her arms, "Private is what it is."

35. Any fetishes?

She glared sharply.

36. Camping or outdoors?

"You are supposed to camp outdoors, are you not? No matter, outdoors." She stood and brushed a hand down the front of her tunic. "Now if you'll pardon me, I need to feed Vela."

Tagging || @amaliorras @musically-magic @jen-nic @faerunner and @shepavellan

[chibi-tsukiko]

Hosted by @oc-growth-and-development

Day 23 : Crumble

Ryuji gets trapped in a collapsing building

(In case you were wondering, this is what leads to him and Ishida’s first kiss 🤭)

Enjoy!

“My daughter!” The woman cries, struggling against Takashi and Ryuji’s supportive hold. “Please! My baby!” She reaches towards the burning building.

A window on the second level explodes, raining glass and wooden scraps on the survivors below.

Ryuji releases his grip and shields the two with his back. The woman in Takashi’s arms lets out a harrowing scream. “Nooooooooo my baby!”

“Get her to the med tent,” he orders and takes off into the burning building.

“Wh- wait! Ryuji!” Takashi calls out, but his friend is already in the building. “Ugh. Dammit. Kai!!”

“What is it?” Kai-Aris asks, jogging over to Takashi.

“Help me get the rest of these people over to Myya.”

“Certainly,” he reaches for the woman, “come with me this way, please.”

Takashi hands the woman off and takes one glance back at the building behind them. He curses as more windows explode and moves to get more people to the medical area. He needs to get help.

——————

Ryuji holds his arm up to his face to block out the smoke. The floorboards creak with every step as he doges fallen support beams.

“Hello!” He calls out, choking on the lack of air. “Is anyone still in here?! Hello?!”

The building groans, shifting walls, causing pieces of second floor to fall through the ceiling. Ryuji knows he doesn’t have much time. He heads down a hallway, “Hello?!” He cries out again, “Can anybody hear me, hello?!”

A muffled cry ahead of him drives him forward. He’s dizzy from smoke inhalation, but he presses on. He comes to a door and kicks it open. In the room's corner, he can make out the silhouette of a child.

“Hey,” he says coming over to the small girl, “come here.” He bends down and lifts the crying girl into his arms. She clings to him, whimpering. “Shhhh it’s ok,” he says rubbing her back. “You’re ok. Let’s get you back to your mom.” He tucks the child’s head under his chin and heads back out into the hall.

The smoke is thick, Ryuji can barely see his own hand in front of him. He can hear more debris falling, the second level is seconds from collapsing. It will bring the whole building down with it.

He presses the girl’s face into his shirt, trying to protect her from the flames and smoke. As quick as he can, he makes his way back down the hallway and towards the exit. The smoke grips his lungs, making him cough and wheeze. Every inhale stings. His eyes are watering. The sweat and smoke burn. He can’t remember which way to turn.

A loud crack sounds overhead. He looks up, just as part of the wooden ceiling breaks off. He uses his body to shield the child, pulling her tight to his chest. The weight is so strong it knocks them to the ground.

“Are you ok?” He coughs, pushing himself up on his forearms. The child nods. Ryuji turns, the thick wooden pillar lays across his legs, pinning him to the floor. He bites the inside of his cheek, cursing.

“Can you move?” He asks the girl. She nods again and wiggles her self out, sitting on her knees.

Ryuji points to the small light up ahead. “You see that?”

She nods.

“Go!”

She stares at him.

“GO!”

He watches the blurry shape of the girl run towards the light, listening to the snapping of wood and crackling of fire around him.

The walls crumble, the remaining support gives out, succumbing to the fires will.

Ryuji stares at the small light of the exit until his vision goes dark.

Tag list : @littleturtle95 @phoenix-and-dragon @khaleesiofalicante @my-archerboy @clumsyowl-in-a-fandom @radisv @raziyekroos @our-insentient-touches @magnus-the-maqnificent @carstairrs @spotsandclawsthings @queen-born-out-of-fire @shadowhuntingdemigod

[veeples-archive]

the sea that receives

|D hi i wrote a lil something for @ockissweek with the prompt: greeting for my OC fiona rosario and @lilas's OC kai, who are best friends.

word count: ~800. no warnings. just schmoop.

***

Kai gives a small nod of acknowledgement to the pristinely dressed airline employee wishing the passengers a good day, too exhausted to manage more than that. Twenty hours of plane travel with spotty rest during it has rendered him with the kind of intelligence he might expect from an exceptionally sharp sea sponge. He rubs the stiff muscles of his neck in a feeble attempt to alleviate the crick there.

Next time he’ll triple check to make sure he packed his neck pillow.

Mindlessly he shuffles with the rest of the gray faced, weary passengers through the rest of the terminal. Though his memory of the Osaka International Airport is returning to him sluggishly, it at least allows him to navigate through its expansive corridors with some ease. Glancing at a few of the gaping, uncertain looking American travelers who were on the flight with him, he’s thankful he’s not completely lost.

In the main thoroughfare, the noise of the airport is more prominent. Chattering crowds, the sounds of hundreds of feet moving this way or that, the pleasant voice on the PA system delivering news and updates. Kai shies away as much as he can, making quick note of the signs directing him to immigrations, and prays he ends up in a smooth moving line.

Despite working his way through the winding line to immigration taking a near half hour, Kai makes it through with relative ease. He stumbles his way through his rough, but passable Japanese. Chatting with his mother or with Fiona over the phone usually keeps him conversational between visits, but between writing up proposals for grants and staying late hours at the marine research facility, Kai’s hardly found time to fit in doing much else besides keeping himself afloat.

Picking his way through the throng of people at baggage retrieval, watching the revolving carousel until he spots his own bulging suitcases and bags, and one more long line through customs sets him back another half hour. Kai breathes a sigh of relief as he slips his papers, wallet, and passport back into his backpack, thoroughly exhausted now with a headache singing at his temple to match.

All he needs to do now is meet up with Fiona and her husband Yahiko.

That thought alone is enough to put an excited pep in his step.

Past a hallway lined with restaurants selling baked goods, bowls of steaming noodles and curries, a dining area with neatly lined tables filled with dining customers, Kai approaches a waiting area with people clutching handmade signs and anxious faces. He sweeps his eyes along the crowd, looking for a hint of curly hair, a flash of brown skin.

Kai doesn't need to look for long before he catches a glimpse of a familiar round face cresting around a pillar.

"Kai!" Fiona calls as recognition lights on her face.

And then she’s running at him– no, she’s sprinting. Weaving through people, ignoring their annoyed looks, glossy curls bouncing around her face.

He's got just enough time to let go of his bags and ground himself to receive Fiona's launching hug without being knocked over from the sheer force of it.

Kai spins her in a half circle, laughing, heart swelling as he holds her close. He buries his nose into the mass of hair tumbling over her shoulders, breathing in deeply. Sweet orange and fresh grass. Salt of the sea. The smell of a never ending summer’s day.

Nearly a year since he’d last seen her.

They finally break away from their death grip on each other as if they both share that thought at the same time. They look at each other, wordless and grinning. Appreciating the beaming face staring at him, face aglow with all of her open joy, cheeks rounded and pink. Honeyed eyes wet with tears.

Still the same Fiona.

Same radiant, welcoming warmth. Same reckless decision to nearly tackle him to the ground in the middle of a bustling airport. Same disregard for the uncomfortable looks Kai knows they must be receiving for this rather gregarious display of affection.

He doesn’t care.

Kai thumbs away a curl that’d fallen across her freckled face. Immediately she tucks her chin to her chest, forehead presented, and he kisses her in the direct center. The hands she has balled into fists at his back tighten further, tugging him closer. He hears her snotty sniffle, feels her turn her lips to press her own fond kiss to his cheek.

Fiona.

His closest friend.

Silly, wonderful Fiona.

Home as much as his mom his home, as much as his apartment is home, as much as the sea is his home when he wades into the water and feels received.

“It’s so damn good to see you Fi.”

[tsukikoayanosuke]

I posted 1,049 times in 2021

435 posts created (41%)

614 posts reblogged (59%)

For every post I created, I reblogged 1.4 posts.

I added 1,760 tags in 2021

#twisted wonderland - 249 posts

#the captain is answering! - 243 posts

#twst - 234 posts

#disney twisted wonderland - 226 posts

#twst fanfic - 140 posts

#twst fic - 139 posts

#twisted wonderland fanfiction - 139 posts

#twisted wonderland fanfic - 139 posts

#twisted wonderland fic - 136 posts

#twisted wonderland oc - 115 posts

Longest Tag: 139 characters

#just because your mc is the only female in an all-boys school that doesn't mean riddle is going to bend the rule for you without any reason

My Top Posts in 2021

#5

Incorrect Twisted Wonderland Quotes - Yu-Gi-Oh! The Abridged Series edition

To celebrate the release of a new episode after two years, here are some quotes. There are too much so I just pick some from TV Tropes.

Enjoy!

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Yuu: Wait, did you just summon a bunch of anemones in one turn?

Azul: Yeah, so?

Yuu: That's against the rules!

Azul: Screw the rules, I have madols!

-----

Epel: BROOKLYN RAGE!

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Sebek: My voice gives me super strength!

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Malleus: (after mind-crushing an opponent who was being a bully) Bullying is just wrong. Destroying people's brains with magical powers is a-okay!

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Malleus: Couldn't I just mind-crush him?

Yuu: You can't fix all your problems by mind-crushing people!

Malleus: Oh, come on! Just one little mind-crush, it'll barely hurt him.

Yuu: No! Bad dragon! No mind-crush!

-----

Vil: You can be my wingman anytime, Rook.

Rook: No Vil, you can be mine.

(cue 'Careless Whisper')

Vil: No homo, right?

Rook: ALL OF THE HOMO!

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Jamil @ Jafar: Hey that guy looks just like me! And he can hypnotize people, just like me! And he's an asshole, just like me!

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Yuu, staring at the Pride Rock: OH MY GOD, A GIANT ROCK! IT'S A ROCK AND IT'S GIANT!

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Leona: Are you trying to tell me that Malleus and I are destined to play magishift with each other for eternity?

Lilia: Yes.

Leona: Best. Destiny. Ever.

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Leona, after destroying Azul's contract: It looks like the rules... (pulls out a pair of sunglasses) ...just got screwed!

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

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Yuu: FUCK DESTINY! I AM THE PROTAGONIST! I MAKE MY OWN FATE!

Crowley: How can this be, why would you do this?

Yuu: BECAUSE A ROBOT FROM THE FUTURE TOLD ME TO!

Crowley: ...

Yuu: What? It's just as ridiculous as the crap that comes out of you.

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Jade: I'm Jade Leech. I'm the serious one with the voice that makes the fangirls swoon.

Floyd: And I'm Floyd Leech; the cute, hyperactive one that people want to choke in his sleep!

Azul: I'm Azul Ashengrotto, and I was making shady deals before it was cool.

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Ace: Okay, Prefect Riddle, this time I'm really gonna beat ya, and there's nothing you ca do about it!

Riddle: Please, Trappola, I could defeat you with my hands tied behind my back. What makes you think you can win this time?

(Lady Gaga 'Poker Face' kicks in)

Ace: Well, I'm glad you asked...

Riddle: O...kay, where the hell is that music coming from?

Ace: Nyeh nyeh nyeh nyeh...

Riddle: ...Please tell me you're not going to sing.

Ace: Nyeh nyeh nyeh nyeh...

Riddle: (quickly) Look, I'll pay you any amount of money right now if you don't sing!

Ace: Nyeh nyeh nyeh nyeh...*launches into song*

-----

Kalim: DODALALALALALALALA!

Jamil: That is an annoying sultan.

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Lilia: Ok, Sebek, you wanna do a mic test?

Sebek: OK! TESTING! TESTING! ONE...TWO...THREEEEEE! (NRC is destroyed by a pillar of light.)

Lilia: Strangest part was that the mic wasn't even plugged in.

99 notes • Posted 2021-01-11 14:03:29 GMT

#4

Basically TW:OPT’S Next Arc

yeah... this is a very shitty edit XD

Scarabia Therapy Arc is coming at end of August, either on Riddle Birthday SSR pull or Episode 6 Ignihyde premier.

However,  I need to warn you: I’m so close with my final exam, so I can’t guarantee I’ll update frequent, but I hope it won’t be as worse as this Christmas Arc

109 notes • Posted 2021-08-17 12:17:15 GMT

#3

120 notes • Posted 2021-09-23 23:39:02 GMT

#2

A conversation with my brother. It started with him talking about Genshin Impact Ganyu banner, then with me talking about Twisted Wonderland Vil banner and chapter update and joking about what if Ignihyde part two comes out in Chritmas 2021. And the he said: "At least you're not Nomura." XD

As hard as waiting for Twisted Wonderland update, imagine waiting 10+ years for Kingdom Hearts III or any story update for Union Cross. At least, Twisted Wonderland Event Story is good, Union Cross mostly filled with Disney worlds fillers (this is coming from a former Union Cross player).

122 notes • Posted 2021-01-04 10:15:59 GMT

#1

A Brief Ramble about the Fangame Drama

Good morning/afternoon/evening everyone.

It seems like we've fallen into another drama pit. Nothing special.

Well, usually I don't want to get involved, but I kinda want to give a bit of my own two cents from someone who made fangames in the past.

Before we start, I think we need to recap a bit. I won't be tagging people just in case.

So, kulfidraws created a sweet little fangame titled Twisted Wonderland: Your Story [BETA 1.0]. The official game blog can be view here, and please read it, it'll be important. Or if you want to see the gameplay, you can watch Ami Yoshiko (that's how I know about the fangame).

However, Proud Hufflepuff and The-Heartslabyul-Hatter posted some false information, creating the drama we have today (I cannot find the original Proud Hufflepuff's post but I vaguely remember seeing that, but I'll link to kulfidraws' post about The-Heartslabyul-Hatter's Twitter post since it was deleted now). This includes kulfidraws receiving anons messages, The-Heartslabyul-Hatter spamming the official Twisted Wonderland twitter, and recently about a Discord conversation.

Now, this might not be the best summary of the drama, because I'm not the best at digging deep. kulfidraws posted the timeline today if you guys want to see it. And a few days ago, The-Heartslabyul-Hatter posted an apology.

From what I see, there's a few major discussion here:

1) Misleading Information

Remember how we are pissed of when someone calls Twisted Wonderland an otome game? Well, the same can be said here. 

First of all, this is a fangame with no association with the real game, Aniplex, or Yana Toboso. kulfidraws even said it themselves on their game blog.

This game is, as kulfidraws pointed out, "merely a fan project for entertainment".

But this is what The-Heartlabul-Hatter said about it:

Someone made a fake Twisted Wonderland game. This is copyright infringement. Game creators do not follow the rules. This is copyright infringement and should be stopped. Please share this message!

... spread the word on fake Twisted Wonderland games that make fans believe it's real! The game creator blocked the warning. Send a message to the creators!

There are a couple of things that I wanted to point out.

The-Heartslabyul-Hatter called this fan game a "fake Twisted Wonderland games that make fans believe it's real". This contradicts what kulfidraws said in the disclaimer that this is a "fan project". Surely when you read that, you wouldn't think that this game is real right?

However, let's just assume that people don't read that and try another angle. The fan game is known because Ami Yoshiko played it. Now, compare her gameplay of the fan game to the actual game prologue. Surely when you see the difference you can tell which is official and which is fan content. Even her title says that "Someone made a Twisted Wonderland Dating Sim and....💔💀😱 | Ami Yoshiko" and she put a link to kulfidraws's game blog. not an official google play. Surely that's an indication that this is a fangame right?

Want another angle? The news spread about the "fake Twisted Wonderland game" is from Twitter. When you search #twistedwonderland, the first thing that came out is the official Japanese Twitter. You can see that Twisted Wonderland is a gacha game, but the one that kulfidraws made is an Otome visual novel. Sure you would believe the actual Japanese Twitter to be the real thing, right?

There are so many angles to look from, I don't see how people can still make mistakes. There are clear differences between the original game and the fan-made one. Google is free. Do your research.

2) The Copyright Problem

On July 5th (or 4th, depending on your timezone), kulfidraws received an ask, related the copyright problem.

Now, copyright is a tricky thing that I'm not versatile at, but what kulfidraws said was correct. If a single fan game can get copyright problems, imagine what will happen to the fanart and fanfictions. We're all screw if Disney and Aniplex are that strict. But also, following GE1KGQEJWHRKGRQOGRQO's logic, if we need permission to make fangames, wouldn't that mean we also need permission to draw fanarts, write fanfics, and edit the sprites for Discord stickers or incorrect quotes?

However, I also wanted to point out that in the disclaimer kulfidraws stated that "This is merely a fan project for entertainment, non-commercial purposes". kulfidraws won't get anything from making this game, only entertainment. Even their interaction with one commenter on the blog pointed this out:

kulfidraws won't get anything from making this game, just like many other fan artists and fan writers in this community, even deny profiting from this. Us fangame creators are just doing what others are doing: making something for fun because we love this media.

But, if I can give one piece of advice for kulfidraws is that maybe add the disclaimer and credit in the game, just in case anybody only skims through the blog post. Even if the game just a demo, always put a disclaimer and/or credit, just in case.

I asked my brother for a second opinion and he did make a good point. Probably the biggest concern is the use of official arts. Because we can see the art in use, it becomes more noticeable than using OST (where there can also be remixes).

So, speaking from a personal experience. I used to be in the Hetalia fandom. There, there are hundreds of fanmade sprites and facesets for many fangames. For someone who can't draw, this is a goldmine, as long as we give credits. I myself had made two fangames with fanmade assets, so the credits are very long. Twisted Wonderland fandom hasn't reached that point yet and I only know two fan game creators, so using the assets from the game is an option, especially those who can't draw.

So, just in case, disclaimers and credits are needed (like a disclaimer at the beginning of the game and/or rolling credit at the end).

==========

Now, I had a script where I want to address the asks, however, I haven't done much research and I don't think I'm the best person to do that.

I'm only speaking this from a perspective of a fangame creator who also used many assets that's not my own, but I do give credits as much and complete as possible; in the actual game, in the description, in a post connected to the game and a word doc in the game file.

But the biggest issue is the spreading of misinformation. What kulfidraws made was not a remake or "fake" Twisted Wonderland like what The-Heartslabyul-Hatter claimed to be. We always tell people to do their research when they think Twisted Wonderland is an otome game, why can't we do that here as well?

But you might say, The-Heartslabyul-Hatter apologized.

Let's see that apology.

So, from this apology, we can see that:

They are not Proud Hufflepuff, but they share the same Discord server.

They weren't the ones sending the Japanese messages to kulfidraws.

They are sorry for accusing kulfidraws of ignoring and deleting things.

Now, do you see what's missing here?

The biggest issue, the stem of the drama, is Proud Hufflepuff and The-Heartslabyul-Hatter spread misinformation of the fangame, but I don't see any mention of that here. So, if kulfidraws doesn't accept the apology, it's not a surprise. The-Heartslabyul-Hatter and Proud Hufflepuff don't even apologize for that when they're technically the ones who started this.

==========

The bottom line is don't just go spread misinformation about something when you don't have a clear grasp of the thing.

We're here to have fun and creates various content (fanart, fanfic, fangames) because we love the game. Just, don't do any of this.

Thank you for reading. If I made any mistake, I sincerely apologize.

159 notes • Posted 2021-07-07 12:53:19 GMT

Get your Tumblr 2021 Year in Review →

[haledamage]

tagged by @risualto to make some OCs in this picrew!

Cait Cousland | Carah Amell (Dragon Age)

Kai Cirdani | Raina Tiárnen (Pillars of Eternity)

Kira Kingston (Wayhaven Chronicles) | Iorwen Emroth (Shepherds of Haven)

and I’m open tagging anyone who wants to do it! please @ me if you do <3