#ooh... writing some drama for once...

[cas-kingdom]

Can you please write Damon cheering up sis!reader by taking her out for some 1 on 1 time? Maybe even some grumbling from Stefan when they get back home lol ❤️

"If this is what you call a date, I want you to know I'm not impressed."

Damon Salvatore rolled his eyes to the high heavens and punted a stone across the grass. "Would you stop your grumbling? God," he said, "you try to do something nice."

You dragged your feet totally unnecessarily. "I'm tired."

"You wouldn't complain like this if it were Stefan, would you?" He stared straight at you, immediately noting the hesitation flit across your face. He stopped. "Would you, you little snake?” You turned on your heel, walking backwards and sticking your tongue out. Damon grit his teeth and surged forward, making a swipe for you. You easily darted out of the way but wasn't as lucky the second time, your brother catching your head in the crook of his arm and mussing your hair.

"You're a vampire," he said above your screaming, "you can't get tired. Ooh, bunny rabbit."

He let you go, stumbling, and approached the oblivious black rabbit. You recovered and grabbed his wrist before he could snatch the animal.

"No, no, no, don't." Damon gave you a look and your mirrored it. "Just let it exist, D."

"Fine, but when I'm hungry later and wanna snack on a passing tourist, don't come crying." You slapped his shoulder and he leaned down, beckoning to his back.

"Come on, get on." You merely blinked in response and he rolled his eyes once more. "Get on, or I'm leaving you behind." You, figuring this was the only way you were getting to the top of the mountain, jumped onto his back with all the grace of a baby elephant. Damon, ever the drama queen, groaned under the weight. "Damn, sis, how much do you weigh?"

You kicked his hips. "Walk on, ass."

Damon had hauled you out of the house that morning without allowing you—or Stefan—a word in edgeways. "It's a date," he'd said when you’d protested, "we're going on a date." Said date apparently included hiking up the tallest mountain in Virginia.

You moved faster now you were off the ground, hanging around his neck with your cheek against the back of his head. Your eyes followed the moving view until Damon got to the top and the trees cleared. You lifted your head and dropped down as he let go of your legs. "Woah."

"What'd I tell you, kiddo?"

"It's beautiful."

"Yeah, I—" A sharp trill pierced the quietude at the top of the answer and Damon grumbled, reaching into his pocket to yank out his phone. The name caused him to audibly roll his eyes "—aw, seriously?" He put the phone to his ear. "Hi, bro. No, bro, I haven't kidnapped our sister. We're having a dandy old time, thanks very much. She's fine, we're fine, the bunny's fine, and don't even think about coming after us because you're not invited. This is a date." And with that, the phone was turned on silent and pushed right back into his pocket.

You crossed your arms over your chest and grinned, one brow raised. "Eloquent."

Damon rolled his eyes and sat at the edge of the mountain. "Come here. Come on, I won't let you fall." He rose a brow playfully. "Maybe."

You gave him a look but came to sit beside him anyway, making extra sure to be close enough that if the wind blew a little too hard and you did topple over the edge, he'd be able to grab you in time.

"I brought you here when you were a kid, you know?" Damon thought about that. "Well, more of a kid than you are now, I mean."

"Yeah?"

"Yup. Carried you all the way up. You said your legs were tired." He jabbed you in the side. "Guess some things don't change."

“Hey, I walked up most of it by myself.” You jabbed back.

“Yet the question remains…will you walk down by yourself?” He rose his brows in question. You narrowed your eyes but didn't respond, prompting your brother to snort.

"What did I think of it then?" you asked. The views were gorgeous, but you doubted you’d appreciated them as much when you were younger.

"Absolutely no idea. You fell asleep on the way up." Damon didn't sound impressed. You grinned. "Seriously. Busted my ass climbing up that hill and you weren't even awake to see all this."

"You didn't wake me up?"

"You were a deep sleeper."

"Belated sorry."

"Accepted."

You leant against him, your shoulders touching. "That's why you wanted to come today?"

Damon shrugged. "Seems a shame not to see it at least once." He paused. "And to spend some time together." You glanced up at him. "What?"

You said nothing. You shook your head and rested it against his shoulder, reaching to take his hand in yours. "I missed you too, big brother."

TVD Masterpost

[cosmicalls]

if you like dead poets society, you may like these!

just for fun: a little list of movies, shows, and books i like that i feel have something in common with dps. hopefully you'll find something you'd like, too!

not in any particular order. just the order that i thought of them in really

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

A Separate Peace

by John Knowles - published 1959

a coming-of-age novel set at an all-boys new england boarding school. follows two boys, Gene and Finny, and their experiences during the summer and winter sessions of 1942. talks a bit about WWII and what role the boys may have to play in that, but it stays pretty focused on the school and the emotions involved during this time in one's life. all the growth and transformation and oddly homoerotic, perhaps very codependent, friendship of a bildungsroman that we love to look for.

one of my personal favorite books, even considering that it was assigned reading. i truly believe many of you would like it and i know for a fact some of you can vouch for me

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by Stephen Chbosky - published 1999 movie adaptation: dir. Stephen Chbosky - released 2012

follows Charlie and his general struggles of high school and with being, well, a wallflower. from goodreads: "Caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it puts him on a strange course through uncharted territory. The world of first dates and mixed tapes, family dramas and new friends. The world of sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, when all one requires is that the perfect song on that perfect drive to feel infinite."

very emotional. that's all! i preferred the movie, but i liked the format of the book being completely in letters that Charlie was writing. they're both good! (if you watch the movie, the english teacher's name is Mr. Anderson. so do with that information what you will...!)

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

Matilda

by Roald Dahl - published 1988 movie adaptation: dir. Danny DeVito - released 1996 musical adaptation: dir. Matthew Warchus - released 2022

a young girl with an aptitude for reading discovers she has telekinetic abilities at the same time she begins attending school. unfortunately, the principal is an extremely harsh woman, and none of the students seem to enjoy it there. Matilda uses her courage and newfound powers to change her environment for the better, both at school and in her abrasive home.

such a good movie, a childhood favorite. the musical has a great soundtrack too!

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

Good Will Hunting

dir. Gus Van Sant - released 1997

a janitor is recognized as a mathematical genius by an MIT professor, and he goes on an emotional journey to embrace his intellect. starring Robin Williams, our dearly beloved inspiration, as the therapist Will goes to see for much of the film.

i only saw it once and my description is lacking but ooh it hurt...... just trust me on this one

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

A Series of Unfortunate Events

by Lemony Snicket - published 1999-2006 tv series adaptation: aired 2017-2019

JUST HEAR ME OUT ON THIS ONE okay. it's about a trio of siblings, orphaned, who are shuttled from one parental unit to another while being followed by a man after their immense wealth. they quickly discover they are in the midst of an intellectual conflict in a secret organization. they must rely on only each other, seeing as all the adults around them are wildly incompetent and/or unhelpful. and it is filled to the brim with literary references!!

both versions have really fun and witty narration, and the tv adaptation is extremely faithful. i don't know how else to describe it without going overboard so i'll settle for not descriptive enough! just trust me. yes it is a kids' series and yes it is one of my favorites ever. it's the vibes of it all

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

If We Were Villains

by M.L. Rio - published 2017

about a group of Shakespeare theater students at a very pretentious arts school who find themselves in a very high-tension dynamic following a disaster that occurs after their halloween performance of Macbeth. lots and lots of Shakespeare, lots of dramatics, and the book itself is divided into five acts.

i finished this in about two nights and it was extremely creatively inspiring. it was a bit predictable, but that's not a bad thing. it still had me clutching my pearls and dropping my jaw

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

"The Artist of the Beautiful"

by Nathaniel Hawthorne - published 1844

a romantic era short story about a man who feels utterly trapped by his occupation. he would rather concern himself with the delicate beauty of nature, and he attempts to realize this in his passion project - much to the disdain of the people around him.

a bit of a sneak sorry. i just think it's just in line with neil's whole thing you know. it's a lot of long and flowery sentences but it works really well i promise

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

The Breakfast Club

dir. John Hughes - released 1985

the letterboxd synopsis really says it all: "They only met once, but it changed their lives forever. | Five high school students from different walks of life endure a Saturday detention under a power-hungry principal. The disparate group includes rebel John, princess Claire, outcast Allison, brainy Brian and Andrew, the jock. Each has a chance to tell his or her story, making the others see them a little differently – and when the day ends, they question whether school will ever be the same."

i don't have much to add and to be honest! kind of a stretch for this list! but i have faith

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

obviously there are other shows and movies with the dead poets society leads, but i wanted to sort of branch out a bit for the bulk of this list. i will still list the ones i had in mind though

House M.D. (2004-2012) - tv series about genius diagnostician Dr. Gregory House and his team at a hospital in new jersey. Robert Sean Leonard stars as House's best friend and head of oncology Dr. James Wilson. very comedic but also very heartwrenching.

Tape (2001) - three friends meet at a motel room and dredge up and argue over unpleasant events of the past. starring Ethan Hawke and Robert Sean Leonard.

Before Sunrise (1995) - from letterboxd: "A young man and woman meet on a train in Europe, and wind up spending one evening together in Vienna. Unfortunately, both know that this will probably be their only night together." Ethan Hawke plays one half of the lead duo.

and yeah there's a LOT more but those are the ones i've seen and sincerely recommend. not to say others aren't good but this is a (very) curated list you see.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

phew that's not as many as i thought i had in my back pocket but it's still pretty good. plus, there's some things i havent read/watched yet that perhaps would have made it but alas! such is life

absolutely add to the list if you'd like!! let's all share our favorite stories

[raineandsky]

hi! i love ur work! i was wondering if you could write something about two enemies (hero x villain) that are undercover as civilians and begrudgingly working together? and somehow villain witnesses an interaction between hero and someone that clearly makes the hero uncomfortable, and realizes his hero has some trauma there? thank you!

ooooh i love this!! thank you for the request, hope you enjoy :D

tw: stalking

“Huh,” someone says flatly from the tills. “Long time no see.”

The hero’s gaze is turned very pointedly to the screen in front of them. “Yeah.”

The villain glances up from where he’s more or less fighting a stack of baskets. A woman is letting herself into the hero’s space, her arm resting casually on the counter and a smug smirk playing at her lips. The hero is leaning as far away as physically possible from her, looking anywhere but her face.

Ooh, drama. The villain can’t deny a little excitement in this bland little life.

“You’ve been avoiding me,” the woman continues. Her voice is much too loud for what she’s saying. The hero winces. The villain edges curiously closer. “A talk is long overdue, ain’t it?”

“I’m working,” the hero says weakly.

The hero has a fatal flaw. The villain positively delights in the fact. As if the hero can feel the joy radiating off the villain, they shoot him a desperate glance.

“You’re helping a customer, honey,” the woman says brazenly. “Now tell me why you’ve been avoiding me.”

“Sorry.” An older man pulls the villain’s attention from the unfolding show in front of him, much to his dismay. “I’ve been waiting a while. Is that the only till available?”

The villain groans inwardly. This bit of fun will have to be for another day. “Sorry. Let me sort that for you.”

He makes his way to the tills, where the hero is trying—and failing, by the looks of it—to shoot down the woman’s questions. Villainy has given him an extra lack of care; he shoves himself straight into their conversation without a thought.

“Hi,” the villain cuts in smoothly, “hi—sorry, you’re holding up the queue.”

A queue of one, mind. The woman gives him an incredulous once-over. “They’re helping a customer, honey.”

“They’re chatting on the job.” The villain shoots the hero an annoyed glare, which they return, stupidly, with relief. “You’re preventing our staff from working. I need you to pay and leave, please.”

The woman smirks like she’s about to win an argument. “I’m not paying for anything.”

“Oh, cool.” The villain returns her smugness with plain annoyance. “You can just get out then.”

“You—! Ugh, fine.” The woman sneers at him before turning her gaze back to the hero. “I’ll see you at the end of your shift, honey.”

The hero positively pales. “Oh, uh—”

The woman saunters for the doors, clearly disinterested in an answer, and the hero watches her go blankly.

“Alright.” The villain ushers the old man ahead. “Do your job this time, or I’ll have to smite you into next week.”

The literalness of the sentence is lost to the old man, but the hero smiles slightly at the threat anyway.

He leaves after what feels like an eternity, and the villain pounces on his opportunity for gossip instantly. “Well? Make this dead-end job worth it, please.”

The hero’s face hardens into an irritated frown. “Is there a reason you’re so interested in my life?”

The villain graces him with an innocent smile. “Blackmail.”

The hero stares at him for a long moment before deflating with a sigh. They start folding a plastic bag more carefully than the villain has ever had the displeasure of watching. “She’s my ex.”

“It’s always the ex!” The villain laughs, giving the hero a light punch in the arm. It’s a lot calmer a gesture than he’ll be giving them later, but he doesn’t need the entire shop knowing he could burn this place to the ground. “What’d you do to piss her off?”

The bag gets lovingly placed on the folded bag pile the hero apparently has. The villain’s never been close enough to this till to have noticed it before.

“I didn’t do anything,” the hero says defensively. “She’s the one who couldn’t let it go and thinks following me around is going to fix anything.”

The villain gapes openly at the hero. The hero pointedly turns away to fiddle with something on the register next to them.

“Oh my god,” the villain says in the tones of a dramatic schoolgirl. “You have a stalker.”

The no I don’t the villain was expecting doesn’t come out. The hero carefully adjusts the register screen, the angle way more important than it should be. “Oh my god, [Hero],” the villain repeats, “you have a stalker.”

“I don’t see why that’s such a crazy concept to you,” the hero snaps. “I thought you’d have loved the thought of someone creeping around after me.”

“I’d love it if it was me creeping around after you,” the villain says with a scoff. “I know what I’d be doing if I was doing it. What’s she doing?”

“Hoping I’ll talk to her.”

“She’s insane.”

“That’s well established by now.”

“Okay, well…” The villain wrings his hands awkwardly. “If you, like, want me to smite her or anything, y’know…”

“What is with you and smiting people?” The hero laughs, kind of, and the villain hates that he’s glad they do. “And why would you do it if I wanted you to?”

The villain shrugs. He’s the one turning his face away now, picking idly at some of the vinyl peeling off the counter. “It’s a nice excuse for me to go after someone who clearly deserves it.”

“And I don’t?”

“I’m trying to be nice for the first time in my life, [Hero],” the villain snaps sharply. “Stop making it so difficult.”

The hero rolls their eyes. “Sorry, sorry. Go ahead. I’ll be reporting this to the first journalist I see though. Ah, I can see the headline already.” They grin at the villain’s growing scowl. “Evil villain turned good by a hero's personal problems. They would love you.”

“And I’m going to love kicking your ass so hard tonight you won’t be able to sit for a week,” he retorts. Then, after a moment’s deliberation, “do you need me to walk you to your car?”

“Aww, you’re so—”

“Okay, no, nevermind. Walk yourself.”

The hero smiles lightly. “If you don’t mind. It’d help a lot.”

The villain nods shortly. He turns back the pile of baskets and makes a mental note to add an extra round to his smiting machine later.

[catscraftsandcommentary]

So I had some time to think tonight at work (in between operating heavy machinery, swearing at the materials, and trying to keep the line running, fun times!) And I asked myself, "self, hypothetically, what might @inexplicifics Accidental Warlord AU look like in another generation or two - once people really get used to witchers being The Good Guys (TM) and helping out?"

And I was like "well, they'd probably get invited to social events - ooh! Who'd like which events best?!? What would that look like?"

Geralt, as we all know, detests anything too formal or Warlord-focused. He enjoys weddings and receptions, but his TRUE favorite is baby christenings. Seriously. Put him in a room with a tiny baby and he's happy as a clam. He'll happily growl away (or weaponize his puppy-dog eyes against) grannies, aunties, and other family members to hold the baby for as long as possible. He's also 90% of the reason that witchers are now rumored to be able to bless babies.

When Mouse and Treyse bring this new rumor to the council, everyone has to just sit. And process for a minute. Because what the ever-loving fuck?!? (Jaskier immediately writes the sweetest lullaby ever, "A Witcher's Blessing", and it is the ONLY song that Geralt ever sings in public, and only ever to babies and small children. Multiple women blame this for their immediate conceptions.)

Jaskier adores weddings and festivals of all types, and if a happy couple includes details of how they met and/or fell in love with their wedding invitation, there's at least a 50% chance that he'll show up to the wedding with a personalized love song, holy shit.

Ciri loves tourneys. Loves watching them, loves displaying in them, loves sneaking into competing in them (omg, heir, NO), loves WINNING them. She's a menace. She has various stealth coats of arms that she rotates between when she's not supposed to be competing, but her favorite is the battle goose. Obviously.

Eskel doesn't like crowds or being the center of attention, which are almost inevitable with public invitations, but he does enjoy being the +1 for his family. Several of his and their interests overlap, and even where they don't, he likes to see them enjoying themselves.

Yennifer becomes well-known as an extremely efficient - albeit terrifying - treaty negotiator. She'll talk to both sides, get a list of their must haves, deal-breakers, would-likes, and don't-wants (as well as - perhaps more importantly - the reason why each of those are on that particular list). Then she draws up a draft and viciously negotiates a compromise. She is genuinely surprised the first time that both sides thank her for her help.

Vesemir, with all his long years of teaching, loves visiting schools and seeing any sort of student performance or sporting event. Kindergarten to university, drama to music to dance recitals to track and field meets to football games to student symposiums to science contests to... He buys out bake sales and funds club field trips and donates several fortunes worth of antique knick knacks to various schools. He's invited as a guest lecturer, a commencement speaker, a competition judge, a referee.

Lambert and Aiden, at some point, discover bachelor's parties, call dibs, and never look back. People learn very quickly not to invite witchers to their stag nights unless they want the entire party to get horrifyingly drunk - but at least Lam and Aiden will make sure that everyone makes it home (or to the wedding) safely. Perhaps not soberly, or sans hangover, but definitely without major injury. (And if the bride asks nicely and the groom and friends weren't total jerks, Lambert can usually be counted on to make a hangover cure. He really is a softie at heart.)

Dragonfly and Serrit get tapped for the odd bachelorette party or ladies' birthday parties. Anything that falls under "I want to be able to drink and party with my friends without worrying about some strange guy hurting one of us." They are extremely protective and have both been drunkenly proposed to several times. (Livi finds this terribly amusing. Gweld just wants to know if he can watch.) Milena and Zofia sometimes go with them.

Milena loves going to wedding showers and baby showers, but outside Kaer Morhen, she has to stay in sight of Lambert or one of his brothers. Lambert's rule. (She got KIDNAPPED, okay? He's allowed to worry!) Usually she'll take Geralt (there might be babies! He's excellent protection!) or Eskel (he's very quiet and has excellent manners, and his signs are impossible to fight) for the more, ah, female-heavy events. If anyone asks, they're her brother-in-law and genuinely like spending time around kids. And very, very married.

[that-one-xachster]

Megumi x Childhood Bestie!Reader Hcs part two

ok I'm continuing this lmfao

so lets get to the part after go/joe kidnaps itadori

and you're just chilling with megumi in his room questioning all life choices

and he's questioning life itself

"crabs probably think fish can fly"

"...what did you eat today"

"tuna mayo"

"istg if you pull the Inumaki crap-"

"bean bags are boneless sofas"

"wHaT"

"...I want a beanbag."

*audibly sighs*

so yeah very fun

and you have a sleepover with him bc like

why not

and drama

so let's say todays that very special once in a lifetime day that you fall asleep INSTANTLY

and like just boom "I'm tired" you're knocked out

and megumi's just there like "gurl??"

my bro is absolutely done cause you're like taking up most of his bed

and personal space

give the man a break 😔✋

so he tries shoving you a lil to the side

keyword: tries

but you're a stubborn person so you don't budge

also you're gripping the bed for dear life in your sLEEP-

you haven't grown out of it lmao

megumi pulls his iconic face and is just

absolutely done at this point

so-

he's known you since childhood anyway right

and you're asleep right

right

so you won't mind if he just plops on top of you and cuddle-spoons you while your sleeping to create space right 😊

just to create space

you don't mind even when you're awake but megumi doesn't know that-

so yes he lies on top of you- wraps an arm around your waist- and spoons you while he falls asleep-

im giggling squealing kicking my feet writing this don't mind me

so yes he's still spooning you while you're asleep-

and in the morning he wakes up first ehe-

bc sleep = none or sleep = all

"all's well thats well for me"

iykyk

but you're still sleeping

and its like 7:30 am

its too early for this shit

so he just stays in bed cuddling you

and boom half an hour later you wake up

but you pretend to be sleeping heh

why

plot

so you two are technically cuddling rn and then my bro realizes that your awake-

and hes like

"oh good morning"

yeah we're totally gonna gaslight

"good morning to you too"

we're gonna keep up the gaslighting

so you turn around and you're facing megumi and you're like what time is it he's like 8:30 am or sum

so you both get up bleh the boring stuff

AND THIS IS THE MOMENT WHERE ITADORI IS GETTING SHOWN HIS ROOM SO-

YOU SEE WHERE THIS IS GOING

so then megumi walks out of the room but you're still inside cause why not

and then itadori and megumi have some bro talk and you just pop up behind megumi-

itadori sHRIEKS

gojos like 'did u two have a sleepover 😼'

and megumi ofc is like 'why do you care'

and itadori goes-

GASPPP ARE YOU TWO DATING???

the way your faces heat up so fast

FACES

WITH AN S

PLURAL

MEGUMI'S BLUSHING TOO

and hes like 'what the f no i'm not dating this idiot here'

you're like 'i wish 😔'

tHE WAY HE BLUSHES HARDER

no this does not go unnoticed by gojo and he whips out his phone faster than lightning mcqueen and bombards him with pictures

'smile for the camera megumi~'

'boy if you don't shut your skin tone chicken bone google chrome no home flip phone disowned ice cream cone garden gnome extra chromosome metronome dimmadome genome full blown monochrome student loan Indiana jones overgrown flintstone x and Y chromosome hormone friend zone Sylvester Stallone Sierra loan autozone professionally seen silver patrone head ass up-'

yes I had to

anyway y'all gotta go pick up the other first year aka nobara

and you're like

"OOH OOH GOJO SENSEI BOY OR GIRL"

"hehe you'll see"

so you make all of them speed to wherever the hell yer picking her up

idt I mentioned you slept in the car and your head was on megumis shoulder eheh

itadori kept teasing him and won't let him live it down fr

so yk nobara and her iconic scene

you have no shame

and you drink your respect women juice

im trying to make this gender neutral 😭

you see the uniform and you're cheering her on so much like

"WOO YEAHHH- PUT HIM IN HIS PLACE YOU GO GIRL-"

and shes like tf is this crazy bish doing

but you're just really excited to have another person in the group cause being around the same uh 7-8 people can get boring

so you meet her and you're pretty excited

"be glad boys, you're getting another girl in the group."

now that drops your opinion

so you have a smol idea

to uh

you whisper something in her ear and the wAY HER EXPRESSION DROPS

guess what you said <3 bc ik ofc I wanna see what y'all think

anyhoo so then shes like WHAT THE HELL and drops it

and boom you pull your feminine/masculine/nonbinary wiles and she's now your bestie

and gojo says we're going sOmEwHeRe

and nobara and itadori get so excited

yk the EJWRHTKWJEHTAUIETHR and the hugging gojo

you're standing next to megumi though cause you know whats coming

the way their face drops when y'all go to that messed up school- was it a school?

anyway yuji and nobara go in and you're outside with megumi and gojo

y'all are sitting down nearby

you're tired af with this shit so you just plop your head down in megumi's lap and no questions he just lets you

<3

and hes running his fingers through your HAIRRRRR

*screaming*

so you have some lovey-dovey time and gojo sneaks a picture cause he low-key ships you two

and after the two come out y'all just walk back very nice day

okay moving on from the boring stuff he goes back to his dorm

is developing a crush ehe

so hes just lying in bed thinking like

WHY TF AM I FEELING THIS WAY OVER THAT IDIOT RAHHHH

poor guys conflicted

but good for you hehe

sigh I'm tired ill write a part 3 later lmao

[shunin-gumis]

Netaro Initial SSR Story

Netaro's Soulmate Search, Group Date Edition (Part 1)

Any notes with a * are at the bottom!

Also Netaro has a unique style of speaking, I hope it was conveyed in the TL 😭😭

Netaro: Beatrice, oh Beatrice~ Where art thou~?

Momiji: Woah!? Netaro-kun!?

Netaro: Your good work is appreciated, Doudou~* Does writing up that report take up all your attention?

Netaro: Knock after knock and without a response, I simply couldn't wait any longer. So I had no choice but to break in.

Momiji: I-is that so... Sorry about that.

Momiji: Um, what was it about.... Beatrice?

Momiji: If I recall correctly... you're searching for your other half.... Your "Fate", right?

Netaro: Bingo~ You deserve a gold star!

Netaro: For the sake of this new dream I have discovered on this planet, I have been pointing my antenna this way and that on the daily, but alas-

Netaro: It is not enough! Simply put, I am severely lacking in new encounters! I must acquaint myself with a much larger scope of humans~!!

Momiji: Meeting more people huh... How about something like a group date?

Netaro: Group date?

Momiji: Yeah, it's something like a party where people gather to form new relationships. I heard that Liguang's little sister would be hosting one soon.

Netaro: Ooh~ Group date, a group date! It has an interesting echo indeed!

Netaro: Now that we have decided, it is time to intrude upon Luu-li!Let us depart, Doudou!

Momiji: Woah, wait! At least let me save my report!!

Momiji: ... And that's the current situation.

Liguang: ...

Netaro: Why do you look so displeased?

Liguang: ... It should be obvious.

Liguang: Since LinXing is hosting the event, I'm certain she would be pleased to have more participants join.

Liguang: But when said participant is you...

Netaro: I cannot help but get the feeling that you think quite poorly of me...

Netaro: How about this, if you would allow my participation, I could make these fluffy twin-eared critters even fluffier and cuter than ever!

Liguang: Try and lay a finger on them, I'll make sure you regret ever being born.

Netaro: You would make me regret my birth over something like this?

Momiji: Um, well, can you let him in just this once? I'll be with him too.

Momiji: ... I was the one who brought it up in the first place, I'll take responsibility for it.

Liguang: ... I'll allow it since it's your request.

Momiji: Thank you very much.

Liguang: However, Yowa.

Netaro: Oyo?

Liguang: If I hear that you caused trouble for LinXing or the other participants, we will need to have a "talk".

Netaro: Goodness, that Luu-li fellow. He need not be so dramatic about it. I am, as always, doing my best to stay on the same level as you humans.

Netaro: Oh well. Group date, group date~ I am bursting with anticipation~

Momiji: Netaro-kun looks like he's in a good mood. I'm glad I suggested this.

Momiji: But I get what Liguang-san was concerned about.

Momiji: Although everyone at HAMA Tours is used to Netaro's eccentricity, there's no way to know how people meeting him for the first time would react...

Momiji: I should try out some questions with him.

Momiji: Um, Netaro-kun, what are your hobbies?

Netaro: Nnn... As of recently, dramas and movies have been occupying my time, I enjoy them quite a bit.

Momiji: Oh! That's a pretty solid response, maybe it'll be ok-

Netaro: It is a splendid observation log for human nature indeed. Witnessing humans destroy themselves over intense feelings of love and hatred.... it is simply delectable.

Momiji: ...What are your favorite foods?

Netaro: Meat buns! Firefly squids are a no-go, they remind me too much of a superior of mine and make my stomach churn. Those eyes especially...

Momiji: ........ How about a special skill?

Netaro: I must say I am quite skilled at inventing amusing gadgets! My latest masterpiece is a glove that can squirt out orange juice indefinitely from the fingers-

Momiji: Stop, Netaro-kun. Just, stop.

Momiji: This is bad! I can't let him participate at this rate!

Netaro: Whatever is the matter? Would you have preferred it squirt out udon instead?

Momiji: That's not it. We need to practice on your Q&A skills today!

Momiji: The better you get at interacting with others, I'm sure it will better your chances at meeting your Beatrice too.

Momiji: I'll accompany your practice too.

Netaro: Doudou is kind indeed~

Netaro: Yes, I shall redouble my efforts as well. Time to level up my speaking skills and aim to be the top conversationalist master~!!

Momiji: That's the spirit!

Momiji: Hmm, first, let's talk to Kinari-kun who's sitting right there.

Netaro: Roger~

Netaro: Nari, I think it would crack me up if we could get laser beams to shoot out of your eyes, but do you mind if I sit next to you?

Kinari: There is an error in communication. I fail to understand the logic behind your sentence.

Kinari: However... A beam is worth considering if it would help me protect Master from any villains. Please give me a detailed explanation.

Momiji: No, you really don't have to do that.

Momiji: The road ahead is going to be a long one...

Notes:

Netaro's nicknames

Doudou is the nickname Netaro has given Chief/The protagonist. I believe the origin of the term is from French, and there are two interpretations of his usage for it. One is where it's used as a term of endearment for a partner, and the other is where it literally translates to a soft piece of fabric or a cuddly toy, implying that Netaro finds the Chief a comforting presence. As far as I've seen, we don't see exactly when or why he gave this nickname to Chief, he simply started using it in the main story and no one showed any surprise.

Luu-Li is Netaro's nickname for Lu Liguang

Nari is Netaro's nickname for Kinari.

Part 2

[klaasje]

ooh!! 🌤️ for the ask game? :0

🌤️Share your favorite piece of dialogue from your WIP

technically this isn’t dialogue but writing the skills always feels like dialogue to me:

—

HALF LIGHT: You are meeting a bloody and murderous end right here, right now, on this mattress. You are going to die, and the taskforce will never solve your murder, and nobody is going to come to your shitty little funeral, or water your shitty little plants, or tell Kim that you—

YOU: Riding an abrupt wave of adrenaline, the sheets pooling in your lap, you lunge with both hands for the thing currently gnawing on your throat. You drag it away by the scruff of its neck and hold the writhing body at arm’s length, face to face with your murderer at last…

LOGIC [Trivial: Success]: Kitty!

HALF LIGHT: My bad.

PERCEPTION: Very orange. Two months, judging by the size and teeth, although it could be older; Revacholian strays are notoriously scrawny. Also, it’s filthy.

YOU: Why do I know…?

INLAND EMPIRE: He liked them. The man you were before you.

EMPATHY [Medium: Success]: Its tiny teeth are bared in a snarl, eyes slitted, ears pressed back. This creature is beside itself with fury. It really didn’t want to get caught. Especially not by such a strange, lumbering giant.

SUGGESTION: Scratch its ears, Harry. Go on.

ESPRIT DE CORPS: Give it some warning first! Nobody wants to be caught off-guard in enemy territory.

YOU: “Ah… hello.”

???: Two beady eyes snap open, staring at you. A squashed nose sniffs the air.

PERCEPTION: The truth here is unfortunate, but unavoidable—there is nothing about this face that denotes cuteness. ‘Cute’ is not an adjective this animal could ever hope to be associated with. Even by Revachol’s standards, this is an ugly kitten.

CONCEPTUALISATION [Challenging: Success]: The *Cuno* of kittens.

CUNO CAT: …

YOU: …

CUNO CAT: …

YOU: Slowly, with a gentleness that belies your nerves, you scratch the cat behind its ears.

CUNO CAT: Two gummy eyes slit closed. A grinding noise begins to emanate from deep within. It reminds you of a garbage compactor, or that horrendous sound you became acquainted with yesterday: the dull screeching of a beloved Coupris Kineema scraping its undercarriage on a pothole.

YOU: Man, poor Kim. Wonder how he’s holding up?

EMPATHY: ...Wait.

ESPRIT DE CORPS: Wait.

DRAMA: Oh, GOD—

INTERFACING [Challenging: Success]: Listen to me very carefully. I will only say this once. This is the Grand Couron Hotel, 3rd floor, room 39. It is 7:30am on a Wednesday morning. You are meeting your partner, Lieutenant Kitsuragi, at 7:45, outside the tourist information office. You are wearing boxer shorts (clean), a single sock (filthy), and no shirt. You are sober and uncaffeinated. Your suitcase is open under the window. You are not, for the time being, late for work. You have fifteen minutes to get your shit together.

SHIVERS: ʙᴇ sᴛʀᴏɴɢ, ᴍʏ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ. ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴇɴᴅᴜʀᴇᴅ ᴡᴏʀsᴇ ᴛʜɪɴɢs ᴛʜᴀɴ ᴛʜɪs.

VOLITION [Medium: Failure]: Fuck off, asshole. No he hasn’t.

NEW TASK: Get your shit together and meet Kim at the tourist office (speedrun!)

YOU: Shirt, on. Tie, on. Clean boxers, keep those on. God ass jeans… woefully inappropriate for a murder investigation, but they’re clean. Put them on. Patrol cloak, yes. Sunglasses, no. Socks—

INTERFACING: Ten minutes and counting.

YOU: Forget the socks. Shoes…

INLAND EMPIRE [Easy: Success]: Something waterproof, easy to clean.

YOU: Cavalry boots it is, then. A hasty swipe of your fingers through your hair while peering in the bathroom mirror, a swig of mouthwash that burns your throat—

ELECTROCHEMISTRY: SHOTS, SHOTS, SHOTS!

YOU: ...And the face looking back at you resembles something approaching a human corpse. With a little more time and TLC, who knows? Maybe you’d look like a fully human corpse. That would be a fun surprise for your coworkers.

VOLITION: There is a map in your patrol cloak pocket, but you won’t need it. The tourist office is perched on the boardwalk overlooking the bay, a five minute walk from here. Left, then right, then another right. You and the lieutenant drove past it yesterday. Now, just get yourself out the door and—

PAIN THRESHOLD: And you’re being stabbed. Again.

CUNO CAT: Cuno Cat has attached itself to your pant leg, clawing upwards with grim determination.

[Physical Instrument: Medium] Remove the Cuno Cat.

[Rhetoric: Challenging] Reason with the Cuno Cat.

[Composure: Impossible] Ignore the Cuno Cat. It’s all gravy, baby.

RHETORIC [Challenging: Failure]: This seems like a rational, well balanced animal. You are a rational, well balanced man. Explain the situation, rationally. He’ll understand.

YOU: “You can’t come to my crime scene, Cuno.”

CUNO CAT: Those beady eyes bore unblinkingly into yours. The knife-paws inch perilously close to your shirt’s hem.

PERCEPTION [Challenging: Success]: A distant echo, faint but audible…

INLAND EMPIRE: Cuno Doesn’t Fucking Care!

LOGIC: (He doesn’t care.)

[adhd-merlin]

Hey I heard you wanna yap so I'm here to talk Arthuriana books ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ I've got a whole spreadsheet but I've only recently started reading 21st century ones, including Bliss & Blunder which is currently my highest ranked out of the bunch but I know it's gonna be usurped by the one I'm currently reading - The Bright Sword by Lev Grossman. If you can handle long books (almost 700 pages) then you have to read it, it's so well written and goes into the more neglected knights like Bedivere and Palomides (and as with all modern stuff some of the knights get to be gay as a treat). I'm still only 1/4 of the way through but if it stays as good as it's been so far then oh boy. Anyways let me know what your favourite 21st Arthuriana is!

Yaaay yapping time <3

Ooh I can’t believe you’ve got a spreadsheet, haha. I’m fascinated by you spreadsheet people! (I’m not a spreadsheet kind of person, I’m a “I’ll write a random note on my phone that I’ll soon forget about… unless I remember” kind of person).

thank you for the rec!! Imma be honest I don’t think I can handle long books right now, because I’m struggling with concentration, but it sounds interesting! I’ll add it to my wish list in case I feel inspired to read it in future (I use the app Bookshelf to keep track of books read/to read, though there’s not much to keep track of these days lol. I like it because it’s super basic; I don’t even think you need to create an account? Can’t remember. But I can’t be bothered with Goodreads anymore.)

Anyways let me know what your favourite 21st Arthuriana is!

Bliss & Blunder is the only modern one I’ve read actually! I haven’t read many Arthuriana books? I’ve read about Arthuriana texts/adaptations more than I’ve read any actual texts lol. I like hearing about all the lore! But I love thinking/reading about adaptations in general, I think the process itself is so interesting? Like, what elements of a story one chooses to focus on or to discard; what makes a character… well, themselves. If you put Lancelot in the 21st century, what would he be like? How much can you change a story and still recognise it as the same? I find it fascinating to think about!* And obviously Arthurian texts have been inspiring so many people over the centuries across different media, so there’s a lot to explore in that sense.

I would like to read some of the “source” texts at some point, though they are a bit daunting. I gave Le Morte d'Arthur a try and abandoned it quite soon, but I’d like to dip my toes in it again, read some select chapters perhaps. I’d also like to read The Knight of the Cart because Lancelot is such an interesting character.

In terms of modern adaptations (as in, written in modern times), I would like to check out The Once and Future King (the Ill Made Knight in particular, don’t think I could read all the books)—I’ve read contrasting opinions on T.H. White’s work but it’s had a great influence on subsequent adaptations (I think?) that I want to see what all the fuss is about. And I love the whole love triangle drama. An affair so messy we’re still talking about it centuries later? I’m so here for it.

I’ve read a couple of random quotes from Steinbeck’s The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights that made me go “oh I should check this out!”, so that it also on my radar. (Have you read it? If so, what did you think of it?)

*I was in the Sherlock fandom for a while and that’s one of the things I enjoyed about it—all the different adaptations that existed about the same source material. And I don’t even care about Conan Doyle’s stories that much (lol sorry Arthur) so it really was mainly about the adaptations for me. I was studying Russian at uni at the time, so I checked out the “classic” Soviet Sherlock Holmes series, and also the Russian TV adaptation that came out in 2013. I greatly enjoyed the latter because of the way it played with and subverted elements of the original canon—it was great fun! Maybe my favourite Sherlock Holmes adaptation. But Vitaly Solomin's Watson ("Soviet" Watson) has a special place in my heart, he was so cute. Did you know there's a genderbent Holmes & Watson Russian adaptation? And they get to crossdress to get into a gentleman's club. Fascinating. I also think Jonny Lee Miller was great in Elementary, though I’m not a big fan of the procedural format. I did abandon that show after series… three, I think? but I still think he made an interesting Sherlock Holmes. His acting was probably wasted on that series to be honest!)

[aliteral-ghost]

This is something I wrote for a trial run of a 100 minute event where the entire fic is outlined, written, and posted in 100 minutes. I had so much fun writing this and figuring out how to write it in 100 minutes! The prompt I chose to write was a roommates au :)

~~~~~~~~~~

To have a home

Cleo has just brought her first box into the apartment when she hears a little cough from the doorway.

“Long time no see,” a far-too-familiar voice says, smile tinging his voice. Cleo nearly punctures a hole in the box she's carrying.

“No. There's no way this happened. This can't be right.”

“Oh, it is, Cleo,” Etho says, grinning. “I requested you.” Cleo stares at him, mouth wide open. The last time they spoke it was a massive, blowout fight about… well, they can't remember. Probably something stupid Etho did. And now they're roommates?

“Okay,” Cleo says slowly, setting the box down so she doesn't throw it at him. “Why?”

He puts on an impressive set of puppy dog eyes and walks over, placing a hand on their shoulder. Cleo doesn't shrug it off, but she wants to.

“I missed you,” Etho says. “Remember how it was freshman year with you and me and Bdubs? We had fun.”

They remember consoling Bdubs when he and Etho broke up for the ten millionth time. They remember Etho being wishy-washy with his loyalty.

“How is Bdubs, by the way?” Cleo asks. “I haven't spoken to him in a while.”

“Oh he's fine! Doing great! We broke up again a few months ago and now he's moved in with some other guys.” That isn't surprising. Cleo's honestly more surprised that they both kept coming back for more.

“Okay, then,” Cleo says, putting her box down so she doesn't throw it at him. “Where's our third roommate, then? Do you know them?”

Just then, a little sandy brown head pops into the doorway. He weaves around the boxes and waves at Cleo when she's in eyeshot. Grian. She knows Grian, too, although less well than Etho. He's never really done nothing to hurt her, just been annoying.

“Hey guys!” Grian says. “Don't mind me, I'll just be in and out!” Sure enough, he's gone within the blink of an eye, with the fleeting shout of “Just had to check my dishwasher!”

“Okay,” Cleo says. “This is fine.” This is fine. It's only for the year, and if she really hates it she can move out earlier. Everything is fine.

“I'm glad you're so positive about this too,” Etho says smugly. Cleo wants to wipe the smug smile off his face, but she instead heads for the door.

“Just-don't get in my way when I'm moving in.”

A few months later Cleo is talking to a few of her art school friends when the topic of her roommates comes up.

“I want to say it's been awful,” Cleo says. “But they're actually fine roommates. Like Grian I hardly see, but Etho does the dishes? He has his own dishwashing apron!”

“You've got a better situation than I do,” False says. “I still have to live with my twin sister.”

“And me!” Joe cuts in.

“And you, Joe,” False concedes. “You're not the bad part.”

“We have game nights,” Cleo wails. “I can't hate this guy when he's been teaching me Wardens and Withers.”

“Ooh, I love that game!” Joe says. “It's a little hard to get into, but once you understand all the cards it can be really fun!”

“Oh, God, now you've got him talking about card games again,” False groans, rolling her eyes.

“It's just– I don't know, it feels like he actually wants to try in our friendship again, instead of constantly having drama.” They stare into their swirling latte, foam art depicting a little smiley face.

“So let him,” Joe suggests. “Have fun. By the way, False, you remember we have a WnW session tonight, right?”

False sighs. “Yeah, I'll be there.”

Cleo leaves them to their bickering and heads home, thoughts swirling around her head. Maybe she should give Etho another chance. He does seem like he's really trying this time.

When they get home, both Etho and Grian are in the kitchen, seemingly plotting out some sort of crime or something. Grian has his little leopard gecko out (it's named Etho’s dishwasher, for some reason) and is letting it run all over the plans.

“Welcome back, Cleo,” Etho says when she walks through the door. “We're planning a prank on Scar. Want to join?”

Cleo looks at the three of them, and the plans on the table, and smiles. “I'd love to, actually.”

[goldenwoods]

Story of pearl girl (first impressions)

Okay, I wanted to give Fangs of fortune some time to build up its story before i continued watching so i decided to give this a try, tbh mostly for ZLS and LYN. I normally wouldn't touch the overbearing boss / clever but inexperienced employee dynamic with a ten foot pole but no one quite captures the rawness of a disempowered character quite as well as ZLS and LYN have a great track record with the roles he takes.

I'm about 6 eps in (so yeah, spoilers) and surprisingly, it's given me a great deal of hope that the relationship writing will actually turn out to be healthy. the story makes it clear that yzj sees herself in duanwu and because he essentially had to toughen up and learn things the hard way in order to survive, he thought the best way for her moving forward is to do the same. this gives him a pretty wholesome reason to be semi-invested in her development. (some dramas have the leading man just seeing the female lead do something competent or whatever and going like 'ooh she's feisty' and then proceeds to involve himself in her life and it's kinda yikes ngl so Yzj's whole logic is a welcomed change). It also makes yzj a lot more palatable because now we know that his shitty behaviour isn't a representation of him taking advantage of his power but his way of protecting someone he sees his younger self in, knowing that once they got the blood pearl shit sorted out she'd be off to do her own thing in a world that would not be compassionate to someone of her status. So the unfair and borderline cruel ways he treats is his way of preparing her and developing her so she'd be able to survive like he did, and all the shit he went through makes him think this is a good idea.

I also like Zjr and duanwu's scene in the temple where he was like 'yeah, you're right, I shouldn't have preached to you about moral righteousness because I will never be able to know what it's like to have to survive on the bottom rungs of a fcked up society and Yzj does, but that doesn't mean you have to become like him to be strong' and the narrative treats this as a healthy and correct pov. so yeah, basically i'm just happy that the narrative isn't writing Yzj the way he is because they thought 'hmm you know what would be hot is if the dude is an a-hole who falls for you' but because they've build his current persona as a byproduct of the shit he went through and is willing to engage thematically with his ruthlessness as a foil for duanwu's own trauma

[accirax]

initial thoughts on DCAS episode 20

^ reminder for everyone that this applies to these initial thoughts as well! it was quite the surprising sight to have pop up at the beginning of the episode, though.

... what is Emily's motivation to kill Trevor here, exactly? i guess she took a page out of Riya's book when it comes to pushing gays off of cliffs.

yayyyyyyy, they're finally getting along! :D

does framing people for theft and twisting their already broken ankles count as "working"?

i guess we do know from Aiden in Season 2 that Tom and Jake were the most popular players. it makes sense (especially given the grandparent context Ally goes into), but it was still quite surprising.

i really hope that Tom and Jake talk this out at some point, whether in the finale finale or in the tomjake miniseries, because the truth of the situation is that Tom's absence from Jake's life was contributing to his misery, which was apparently much greater than anyone expected. i know that Tom never intended it to be that way, but i'm also sure that his fooling around with lying about having a boyfriend wasn't doing Jake any favors. i just want to make sure that the inadvertent hurt that Tom caused Jake doesn't get swept under the rug.

haha, it's puns in visual storytelling :)

this is understandable. Riya can and will use your backstory against you.

.......................................sigh

this might sound like an odd critique given how much people love to dunk on DC's writing (especially in All Stars), but i actually think that the ONC writers don't have enough faith in themselves. i mean that in the sense that, across the season, they set up really compelling plotlines and rivalries between both Jake/Ally and Connor/Riya that people will naturally want to see fulfilled.

for Ally and Jake, just being here and being forced to work together after everything they've been through is already enough, especially when Connor's hopes are stacked on top of it as well. we're in it with the characters for the ride. so, we don't need more bits of fake drama, like Jake being petty and shocking Ally out of nowhere last episode, or Ally reacting stupidly to Riya's obvious lie, to keep up invested. we don't need a huge last-minute spectacle to feel like Ally and Jake working together is a big deal, because they've been subtly and slowly convincing us of that through the entire season. instead, diverting from the steady characterization to inject needless drama in is just going to convince everyone that nothing matters.

i don't know if this could be a miscalculated flaw from trying to account for the fact that any viewer could hop in at any time on youtube, or appealing to the youtube/tiktok algorithm, or an internal, insecure standard to insert drama into the show at any cost, but i hope that the writers realize how good they are at using heartfelt scenes to build up character dynamics across entire seasons and stop breaking character for silly plot twists in season 4. i have a lot of faith in the writers. i hope they can find that faith in themselves.

y'know, everyone keeps saying that...

OOH THE MOTION BLUR??? POP OFF ONC ANIMATION TEAM I SEE YOU

the "Ally, you're going there!" sign was so fucking funny

that's not very "i'll never work with or trust Riya again" of you, Grett

i literally said before Riya struck her pose, "i hope that Riya does the 'aren't you gay?' pose when it's her turn" and then she did! it's her signature move for a reason ;D

this is, like, the exact same spot and pose as when Trevor initially found Derek and Kristal kissing. i wonder if that was intentional. also, the Gay Thoughts Montage(tm) was really funny.

why would you do it like that? hasn't Trevor suffered enough...? (/j)

@venus-is-thinking pointed out the hilarity of Jake being the one to say this, as he's one of the two contestants who actually has been in the mines before. i guess it just goes to show how disorienting the bags were.

get his ass!!!

i KNEW Ally was going to make a minecraft reference as soon as Kristal explained the challenge. miiiiiiiiiiiiine diiiiiiiiiiamoooooooonds...

way to keep your eyes on the prize, queen.

we love money laundering!! (i think that's close enough to what money laundering is? also i'm joking, obviously.)

again, what is Emily's motivation here? i know it's technically "get the show canceled to embarass Kristal," but she really believes in that so strongly as to put the lives of six innocents-- including an eight year old-- at risk to do so? idk, i feel like Emily's character fell off the realm of reality into supervillain status. it's sad :(

boy, i sure am glad that we witness Riya and Yul pick up 10 gems in this scene! (/s /j)

very brave, Jake. i feel like this parallels something in s1, although i can't remember what. maybe it's just Alec protecting Fiore? that doesn't seem particularly relevant, unless Jake is also auditioning to be her dad.

James: wait... does that mean Jake and Ally are going to fall madly in love with each other? #rivalstolovers.

they look like paleontological fossils in there. the fuck happened to them?

somebody, quick, give them a miniseries! this is too good of a poster opportunity to pass up!

you have to make sure you strike a slay pose, even as you're dying.

props to the trailer for making it look like Ally was the one who sent the rocks to James' face instead of Riya. that was a fun setup and subversion of expectations!

see, Riya can and will use your backstory against you! i was kind of expecting her to do this to Jake, too, given the setup from earlier in the episode. i guess they might be saving that for the finale proper, though.

(check out the reblog for my thoughts on the ending, i ran out of images)

[keroradio]

Ta-da! Today we have the first audio drama, or rather, the introduction, the main story for this CD is on another track. In total there were 10 audio drama CDs, two sets of 5 with each album being tied to a different frog

The uploads for these will have a one day break on either side, as well as a shorter track, partially because writing out the story will take more time, and partially because I calculated how many tracks there are in total and it turns out I started this a little too early; there are some seasonal songs I wanted to post around the corresponding time, and this will pad things out just enough to let me do that

On that note, there's a translation (and notes) under the cut

Hopefully it turned out well, I forgot how hard these guys are to translate by ear (^.^')

--------------- N: When you're listening to a CD, keep the room bright and sit away from the speaker- What? Ah, it's fine? (1)

Alright then, to show our gratitude that you bought this production, our best wishes to you

Well, it's sudden, but this is the Keron army Pekopon invasion base, secretly built deep under the Hinata house

K66: I'm the commander of the Keroro platoon, nobody else could have gathered you today

Private 2nd Class Tamama!

TMM: Yes!

K66: Corporal Giroro!

G66: Hmph, really, it's not that this will be anything but you doing what you want

K66: Gi-Giroro-kun

G66: What is it?

K66: Since this time is audio only, could you change your voice? It's scary, yes sir

G66: I-Is that so? (sweetly) Hello, I'm Giroro~♥

K66: G-Good job

N: That was also scary...

K66: Moving along, Sgt Major Kururu

966: Ku ku, present

K66: And Angol Mois-dono

M: Yes, uncle!

K66: Ah~ As always, you're such a good, honest girl, aren't you?

TMM: I won't lose like this

N: Tamama fretted

TMM: Yes! It's Private 2nd class Tamama~! ♥

K66: Replying once is enough

TMM: Gaan!

N: And then slumped

K66: Well then, everyone's here

D66: Uh, I am...

K66: (Shocked noises) I forgot him

There's no way I'd forget you! A person we value so, so much!

Lance Corporal Dororo!

D66: I've come to participate

K66: That was close, his trauma switch is still off

G66: Just hurry and tell us what in the world this is about! (awkward pausing) Um, what might this be about? ♥

K66: The grey cells of our army, yet also like a grandmother's embrace, Sgt Major Kururu has invented a fearsome new weapon to easily and simply conquer Pekopon

TMM: Fearsome?

G66: New weapon?

K66: And so, keep your eyes peeled and see that new weapon!

Mois-dono 12487 circuit, switch on!

M: Roger! Switch on!

(Everyone makes exclamations of amazement)

G66: Oh! But isn't this just a normal CD?

K66: Your eyes can't see it, can they? Corporal Giroro

G66: What are you saying?

K66: This CD was developed by Sergeant Major Kururu, when it's read by the treasured home sound system of the enemy, we can freely control them through what they hear

(More exclamations of amazement)

966: Ku ku ku ku, I really am the man that makes the impossible happen

TMM: Ooh! Let's try it out right away Mr Sergeant!

K66: Wait, I'm not finished speaking yet!

Gero gero gero gero, it sounds fearsome, right? This Pekopon invasion CD is going to have 5 kinds made

G66: F-five kinds?

D66: That's amazing, good sir (2)

K66: You understand, right? If in this Heisei era recession somebody released a 5 CD, what would happen? How much of a problem would it be?

M: Mois knows! Uncle will make so that people who want to acquire all of these CD will have to aimlessly search all over for them. You could say "Strength in numbers"

K66: Mois-dono~

TMM: I can't lose!

N: Tamama fretted once again

TMM: Mr Sergeant's amazing! It's a miracle you have the popularity to make a 5 part CD set!

K66: (Distressed noises)

TMM: I screwed up

N: And once again Tamama slumped

K66: Setting that aside! All eyes on the monitor!

Behold! Our audio weapon!

G66: Th-this is!

TMM: Oh!

M: It's an original drama CD, isn't it? Uncle

K66: Precisely

TMM: Hmm, the first one is Mr Sergeant's Gunpla diary, the second is Mr Sergeant's poem collection, third is Mr Sergeant's health diary, forth is Mr Sergeant...

G66: (noises of irritation)

K66: How's it? What does everyone think? It's the best, right?

G66: Keroro! You moron! What part of this is a Pekopon invasion CD!? Ultimately, isn't this a CD of your interests!?

K66: However, after all, see, it was fun to make

G66: It was only fun for you!

TMM: Right? It won't sell with titles like this

K66: Gero!

TMM: Since there's 5 in the set, I want to make one "Tamama: The path to hand-to-hand combat, yes sir" volume (3)

G66: I'll make a CD too! One that appeals to the spirit of the Keron army "Giroro: Speeches of rage, yes sir" volume

966: Ku Ku, I've also been thinking, "Kururu: Discover through sound, great field guide, yes sir" volume. How is it?

M: Um, I have something to say. If there's space, I think a "Mois, return to her home town" volume would be good, you could say, feathering your own nest

D66: In that case, I think a "Dororo: A wonderful world of flowers & greenery, yes sir" volume would be nice, good sir. It would have bird songs, & river sounds-

723: Hey! Stupid frog!

K66: Auwah!

723: I heard it from Yoshizaki-sensei. You're making an original drama CD, aren't you?

K66: Uh, that's...

FYK: Aren't you being secretive, sergeant?

K66: Fuyuki-dono too!?

MMK: Hello! Did my Tama-chan come to play?

TMM: Ah! Even Momocchi!

723: For a well made CD, it would be nice to get Mutsumi-san as a guest to do a special talk, wouldn't it?

K66: What?

FYK: In that case, as the Occult Club, we could do an audio report on the 7 mysteries of the world

K66: Well, that's...

MMK: Since he world's 7 mysteries would cover a lot of material, let's release it as a first & second part 2 disc set

K66: W-wait a minute-this is- I'm supposed to be the author of this-

UMMK: What's that? You've got complaints about the 7 mysteries of the world?

K66: Gero~

723: No matter what, it should be something fun

K66: Well, that's true, but...

723: Then let's all do it

K66: (Noises of frustration)

N: Just then, something inside of Keroro snapped

K66: I don't wanna! I don't wanna! I don't wanna! Everyone's doesn't wanna listen to my ideas and are making their own 5-part CD sets!

G66: What? You're suddenly having a tantrum!?

TMM: "I think you should stop crying "me me me me" like a kid! (4)

K66: No way!

G66: Aren't you embarrassed as an army man?

K66: I wanna make a gunpla diary! I wanna make one!

D66: Everyone, my suggestion-

TMM: More than that, We should do a Private 2nd Class Tama-chan diary!

M: That's good, but so is my "Mois-chan: uncle love-love diary"!

TMM: Burying me under a similar idea, I won't forgive this woman!

N: Again, again, again, again, Tamama fretted

723: More importantly, are you going to call Mutsumi-san as a guest or not?

G66: I-I think if Natsumi says so, we should call him

K66: No no no no! It's my CD! We're doing what I want!

G66: You're crying over a CD!

FYK: I thought the world's seven mysteries was good

MMK: Isn't it? Hey Paul! Give it your all and to back up Fuyuki-kun! Paul! Buy every dictaphone you can find!

P: Yes, miss

M: Then, how about a three-part harmageddon-

TMM: Keep that off this CD!

N: Again, again, again, again, again, Tamama lost it

TMM: I've had it!

723: Call Mutsumi!

Everyone: Unintelligible arguing

966: Ku ku ku, it's already a mess, huh?

N: Any way, in an ugly, hostile environment like this, will the Pekopon invasion CD be born?

____

1-It's a parody of the warnings that started being placed at the beginning of animated shows after flashing lights in the Porygon episode of Pokemon caused photosensitive migraines & seizures. The warnings tell viewers to sit a good distance from the screen and to keep the room well lit since this reduces the photo sensitive effect, but since it's a CD it doesn't really effect anything.

2-Keroro's ending sentences "de arimasu" is derived from military speech and translated as "yes sir" to reflect that, while Dororo's "de gozaru" is both formal and archaic (the modern counterpart is "gozaimasu"), so I translated it as "good sir" to have a similar feel.

3-The pattern for the proposed titles is, of course, modeled off the episode titles, but "volume" ("title" no maki) actually means something closer to roll, a lot of works use this pattern which dates back to when everything was written on scrolls.

4-I had to fudge this one because it doesn't translate neatly; you've probably noticed from listening that Japanese has multiple options for first person pronouns that have different associations and how well a character's categories match to the "I" they use can tell you more about them.

Keroro normally uses "Wagahai" which is an old fashioned and slightly arrogant sounding way of calling yourself (it's a bit like saying "my esteemed self") and is sort of a more archaic counterpart to the modern "Ore-sama". But during his meltdown, he uses "Boku" which it typically used by boys and younger men, in this case to make him sound more childish.

....Either way, it's a little ironic that Tamama's the one complaining about Keroro doing this since he also uses a more childish speech pattern.

[thebroccolination]

I wanted to ask about some fandom, that you don't actively take part in anymore, but was into before, so I checked your ao3 fandom list looking for those that have 3-6 fics and the pokemon I choose is MDZS. :D I have watched the drama more than once before, but finished the book only recently, so it would be very interesting to read your opinion <3

So, for the 001: MDZS!

I actually have two extra questions.  1. What made you like it back then (enough to write fic)? 2. Why did you stop liking it enough to write fic? :'D

There is obviously no pressure to answer whatsoever. I understand that talking about old fandoms may not be fun, so feel free to completely ignore the ask! <3

For the fandom number meme:

Ooh, this one’s fun! And thank you for asking! I love doing these. :D

- MDZS -

1) What made you like it back then (enough to write fic)?: I found a fan translation of the novel while I was living in Japan back in 2019 and devoured it. I only read it once so I don’t remember everything clearly, but I did very emphatically think that Wei Wuxian was one of my favorite protagonists. I have the Seven Seas translation of the first volume, but I’m reading Guardian (Zhen Hun) first because that was my intro to danmei (and still my favorite of what I’ve read).

2) Why did you stop liking it enough to write fic?: Thailand distracted me. \:D/ I also didn’t know anyone in the fandom, so I’d just been sort of enjoying from the sidelines. No one to drag me back, y’know?

Now the meme proper!

001 | Send me a fandom and I will tell you my:

• Favorite Character: Wei Wuxian

• Least Favorite Character: Aaand now we’re into the stuff I blocked. Y’know that one dude? Him. Ooooh I wanted him to die so bad. I don’t actually remember if he did. I’ll tell myself he did. Good. [spits]

• 5 Favorite Ships (canon or non-canon): Our heroes wangxian, and that’s kind of it? I did hope for some sapphic pairs, but I don’t remember who I was rooting for.

• Character I find most attractive: All the women.

• Character I would marry: All the women.

• Character I would be best friends with: All the—

• A random thought: I’d love a companion book that explains the cultural and genre subtext that readers unfamiliar with them could enjoy. Like when I was in Word of Honor fandom, I loved learning about all these aspects of the series that viewers familiar with the genre conventions were pointing out.

• An unpopular opinion: Not interested in watching the series. I just loved the novel so much the way it was, so I don’t really feel any need to watch the adaptation. I’ve heard it’s great! It’s just one of those “read the book first” things.

• My canon OTP: Wangxian

• Non-canon OTP: Me x All the Women

• Most badass character: Jin Ling’s uncle

• Pairing I am not a fan of: That one character I hate paired with the guy I ship with someone else. There’s this one pair in the book and there’s betrayal and one of them ends up a broken spirit? Them I love. <3

• Character I feel the writers screwed up (in one way or another): None! I think they’re all extremely well-written.

• Favorite friendship: Wei Wuxian and the goat (was it a donkey?)

• Character I want to adopt or be adopted by: Jiang Yanli :’)

[good-beanswrites]

🎬: About Es being a past prisoner and the secret 11th prisoner in your AU. But advance apologies if I'm overstepping into your AU!

I had this idea from a story that pretty much did the same thing. Going off there are novels/manga on Milgram and there being another Es and their own prisoners running another Milgram (but differently) I imagine this Milgram projects has been going on for a while, and our Es was from a previous project who might have gotten the worst verdict (or the most spared out of everyone), and was given this final task as a warden for the next group of prisoners. This is why they so readily agreed and had their memories wiped for this Milgram project instead of being weary on a shady project on judging an almost crime, they've already been through this.

(BTW is it bad and worrying for one of our ten fav prisoners to be the next Es if this is legit...)

Anyway, that's why Es is in Milgram in your AU, I guess? And the lore drop that Kotoko picks up on them being the 11th prisoner, I can imagine her also talking to Kazui since he's a policeman to see if she could cross out any theories on who Es is (Did they look familiar. Possible missing child. Any cases to do with an almost crime by a child other than the 10 of them here). Kazui knows Kotoko wants to investigate, but reminds her that, like in their prison while the trial is on, the facilities they're in have high security too. They do have the freedom to move about, but still limited.

If they're trying to investigate Es, maybe Fuuta, Kotoko and Mikoto can try to do the hacking on the comp Mikoto's allowed to use to Photoshop some shots for the MVs and photos (Fuuta and Kotoko seem to be able to search up info they need I think...). Yuno, Mahiru and Muu can work on charming the staff to see if they can spill more deets on Milgram. Not sure how much the group can gather, but oh boy fun times in Milgram can turn into another sort of stress in this AU...

No worries!! Like I said before, this whole au has been a fun collaborative project, so there's no overstepping :) I am sorry I won't be writing a lot on the ending until we get more info, but that's just the perfectionist in me who doesn't want to be proven wrong 😅 Still, I love tossing around and digging into ending scenarios, I really love this!

Because that would make a lot of sense why they're so willing to subject themself to the whole experiment! They remember how tough their experience was, and are confident they can care for the new set of prisoners while doing their job. I'm imagining they get the opportunity to return as guard, and get to have a nice talk with their own guard first. Once they fully understand what it's like, they're know they can handle it and sign up. It adds a bit of drama, too, since they must have been really young committing their crime in order to complete a years-long experiment prior to this one. They would have been like 10? Oof. (Now I wanna see their three trial songs 👀)

And like you said, that also brings up the question of the new warden. Though I think it's based on verdict results, I can just picture Jackalope keeping an eye on everyone during filming. He studyies their interactions and personalities, keeping his own set of notes on who would make a good successor. (I'm not going to go through every character but there are pros to any choice, it's very fun picturing them all taking the job.) Haha, on the other hand, maybe the reason Kotoko keeps bringing up her role as Es' partner/bringer of justice is because she did discover the truth. She drops as many hints as possible so she can be chosen next 😅

Ooh, I love her working with Kazui on an investigation! The fact that eh may know details on recent crimes (and almost-crimes) is super fun to work with. He's the last person who's going to spill a secret, so the group could go several trials without realizing Kazui had actually heard all about their situation this whole time.

(Getting sidetrack for a sec, I'm suddenly realizing that he and Kotoko may have heard things about the crimes in canon, too. They're a bit unclear about how much time passed between the murders and arriving to Milgram, so maybe he heard some things. I don't know how well-connected Tokyo police departments are, but Yuno, Fuuta, Muu, and Shidou are all nearby. There's definitely a chance he caught word of the vigilante nearby, and she heard about the odd policeman's suicide. Both of them could have heard about the tragic housefire, the disgraced doctor, or horrible schoolgirl murder nearby.)

Anyway, I like that idea of Kazui wracking his brain for any similar cases. Though, if he had, Milgram may have had the foresight to wipe parts of his memory, too. Maybe he does end up using his call to reach out to Hinako and have her look into it from the outside. Sadly, Kotoko seems the type to sacrifice her personal call to reach out to a connection who can help as well. I'll have to think about how closely Jackalope monitors those calls, hm.

I'm going crazy over prisoner investigation team !! Kotoko and Fuuta had the online knowledge to find some good info, and Mikoto and Kazui seem like they'd have a huge network of people they can ask for info and favors from. Haha, I'm torn whether Mahiru would have flirting down to a science or if she'd refuse to do it since it wasn't real love 😂 Still, she's very good at reading people and could definitely help the others charm and bribe their way into some restricted areas. Amane and Haruka can also charm with their innocence/cuteness (though I'm not sure Amane would). Shidou seems very organized, he'd have a plan and backup plan and backup-backup plan ready, no matter what happens. I think it's even funnier, then if Milgram had run several experiments prior. Jackalope would think this was just another runthrough, and for the first time the ten subjects decided to organize together and Cause Problems.

I think there's a beautiful irony in a story featuring ten prisoners planning a jailbreak to save the prison guard...

[raiynnah]

Firstly, when you get this, you have to answer with 5 things you like about yourself, publicly. Then, send this ask to 10 of your favourite followers (non-negotiable, positivity is cool)

Ooh ok...Let's try this, I do love positivity

My creativity--I have so may writing projects running around in my head at once but I wouldn't have it any other way

My taste in friends!--So glad I do, I've avoided so much drama that I could've been swept up in so I'm very grateful for it (this counts, right?)

My determination--I will get all of my wips done at some point!! I will get better at my hobbies even if it takes agesss to not suck at them

My writing--It's not all my best work but it took effort to get here and I'm proud of that

The fact I answered this--I'm shy and introverted but trying my best!

[tessathegamefreak]

[I've been wondering what would happen if the kids from either Next Gen cast met some of the parents in the other Sugar Rush. So...I got a roleplay idea. Here goes. XP]

Gabrielle's family and Kentroy's family are about to have a jelly barbecue picnic, which gives the 2 kids an idea to invite some of their friends from the other Sugar Rush to join them, and meet their parents (albeit very awkwardly, of course).

Kentroy: Shouldn't we tell them about that first?

Gabrielle: Hmm...nah. We're gonna surprise them!

Kentroy: *sighs with a chuckle* Of course you wouldn't care about that. So who are we inviting?

Gabrielle: Obviously gotta invite Autumn and Pepo! And maybe Jolly-

Kentroy: No. Don't even think about inviting him.

Gabrielle: You seriously hate him that much?

Kentroy: Uh-huh...? Obviously.

Gabrielle doesn't say anything, but she's so going to invite Jolly-O without him knowing. What can I say, the girl enjoys chaos.

Once they're done writing the invitations, they send a marshmallow owl to deliver them.

[Ooh! That would be fun! XP]

Meanwhile, in the Mercy 'verse version of Sugar Rush, all my Next-Gen children receive their letters. All the ones that were invited gathered around at the center of town to talk of the invites. (Imma say Steep got invited too out of courtesy because I crave the drama of inviting a kid who looks like a certain villain, but your kids don't realize it-).

Tootsie: Hey, did you guys get a letter from Gabrielle and her friends?

Autumn: Yep! Me and Pepo did!

Brezziana: Um... I believe that would be "Pepo and I"...

Autumn: You got invited too?? Sweet!!!

Brezziana: Er-

Jolly-O: *he giggles* Well, it seems they aren't wrong about that! Hey, so did I~

Steep: ... *He sees Florence also got invited.* Oh modth. You got invited, too?...

Florence: Yep...

Steep: Surprising, s'ince you robbed them last time...

Florence: Hey. Knowing my mother, she raised her daughter to "let bygones be bygones", alright?