#or peco and smile

[cadejpeg]

ping pong lives in my head rent free fr

[rivvszn]

“Call me if you’re in a pinch, chant these words three times: ‘The Hero Appears! The Hero Appears! The Hero Appears!’”

—Peco

i've been trying to put my finger on the exact reason ping pong the animation hits so hard for a while now, and i think i finally got it : there's just so much love in it.

the effort and determination poured into creating this masterpiece, every frame painstakingly drawn by the person behind it, every dialogue voice acted in a way that transcends language barriers, transcends the screen itself, the music that pulls you along, promising an unforgettable ride if you just get up and dare to hope. kensuke ushio, i am forever grateful for your existence and your creations. i stumbled upon ping pong by accident while listening to the csm soundtrack, and it is perhaps the best thing to ever happen to me.

and of course, the story itself. the brilliant mind behind it, who put this story into words for all to see and appreciate, Taiyō Matsumoto. the way this story treats its characters, never afraid to show failure, never afraid to show flaws, never afraid to show the ugly and the regret and the desperate and the sadness. never afraid to stand back up, to show passion and friendship and hard work and determination and confidence.

it takes the characters by the hand, it takes you by the hand, and it tells you it's okay to fall because you can get up again. it redefines the word hero again and again, and stops at the simplest yet grandest form of it : the one who shows up when you call them. the one who transcends logic.

genuinely, altered my brain chemistry forever. so jealous of anyone who watches it for the first time.

[ella390-the-potato]

Best Christmas Scene in Anime:

Ping Pong The Animation (Ep. 6)

Song: Midnight Flight by Shougo Hamada

There's just something 'real' about this scene, that just hits the feels. How sometimes different situations in your life or work, mean that you're alone. Or how sometimes you simply just want to be alone like Smile. Or that you think you are alone, like Wenge, but your actually not. And then there's Yurie, who's hopes and wishes were that she wasn't alone on Christmas Eve.

[apileofprofiles]

Ping Pong the Animation

[kedsandtubesocks]

blood on your name

Cowboy!Ezra x F!Reader

summary: Texas 1885 - the town’s ranching competition brings in new souls out from the desert, one unfortunately happens to be a ghost haunting you & he’s still as handsome and dangerous as ever

warnings/tags: 18+ ONLY. MDNI, old Wild West AU, slight enemies to lovers, very morally!gray Ezra, fingering, oral (f receiving), pussy pronouns, one moment of spit kink, allusions to p in v, scoundrel but soft!Ezra, themes of violence & reader enacting violence on another, use of guns, blood & injury, morally!gray reader, time period views of marriage & shaming women (brief use of derogatory terms against reader), minor character deaths, light gender language usage, use of nicknames

word count: 7.2k

a/n: here’s to finally putting my 7th grade tx history lessons to some use plus I’ve been really missing west texas so here we are lol! Fun history fact - Pecos prides itself as the birth place of the rodeo so this competition is the inception of that! It took me a while to get here & this truly wouldn’t be here without @gasolinerainbowpuddles @julesonrecord & @perotovar i can’t thank you babes enough, and to you, if you decide to read this too, thank you so much ♡

The newcomers that blew into town stand around the edge of the fence.

Pecos had become famous for hosting this rope wrangling event, and you’re not surprised it’s brought others in to observe the spectacle. Just last week it seemed like more wagons wandered into the edge of town.

You’ve been living here among the desert’s harsh eyes with your aunt for a few years now. When your mother unleashed her wrath after she found you with an unmarried man who had drifted into town, you fled with the caravan heading out west. So far west it brought you to the Pecos River. You’re thankful your aunt welcomed you with open arms. The desert proved to be a harsh host. But you’ve managed.

The actual event in town wasn’t taking place until the end of the week. Except so many already want to see the cowboys proudly warming up, showing off.

It’s why you even stop on your way home from the tailor shop.

Duke Williams currently tries his hand at practicing. The handsome young star all the way from Austin shows promise while he maneuvers his threadbare rope with ease.

He lands a solid catch against one of the practice sheep running around, and the crowd claps already impressed.

His bright face, angelic almost, brightens when he smiles triumphantly. When he spots you among the on looks, he beams even wider. You smile back politely.

However, Martha, the mayor’s youngest daughter, nudges you.

“I don’t know why you haven’t let that man swoop you up yet?” She giggles with a slight tease however, her words sting.

Duke’s been pursuing you ever since he came into town last spring. He reminds you of a newly built chapel, lovely coated in pristine and full of holy hope.

Yet, you don’t care for him.

You understand you should be married by now. Especially at your age, you’re becoming a dusting antique on the shelf by the town’s whispers. You even understood your mothers anger after discovering the man she caught you with had simply scurried away without another word.

Everyone in town seems to see Duke almost as your god blessed savior on a white horse sent to rescue you from a desolate destitution.

But you don’t hold any sense of attraction towards Duke. Even as you watch how handsome and sturdy he looks, a fierce cowboy among the other competitors, you simply admire his skills. And that’s it.

You wonder if you’re simply destined to the life of a happily secluded cactus like creature.

Something tickles against your skin, a sensation of being hyper aware of being caught in another’s gaze. Living in the desert has brought you a heightened awareness to make sure no critters lurking among can strike you.

So your eyes flicker around and find the crowd still enthralled by the sight of the cowboys.

Until you find one man isn’t.

One of the newcomers.

Sun kissed skin, an absolutely striking hawkish nose, sparse facial hair and then, the deepest dark earth eyes you’ve ever seen stare straight at you. The dusty black cowboy hat he wears casts a strange shadow across his features, cloaking him almost sinister.

Your breath hitches fast like it’s stolen from you.

You know this stranger.

One of the other newcomers nudges against him drawing his attention away from you. But your face stays stuck on him.

The men discuss with each other low and close, clustered together like a pack of desert weeds sprouting fast.

Except after the mystery outsider relays something back to the group, his eyes flicker back to you.

There’s a simmered wildness to him.

The commotion of spurs clinking comes and so many giggle around you, drawing your attention away.

Duke moves towards you with a shining grin on his face.

A desire to scurry away tugs at you. So with a polite smile, you silently duck away and decide to head home.

“Hey! Why ya leaving so soon?” He calls out. “Did you see me?”

His voice is so bright but also, so slightly arrogant, as if he can maybe keep you from leaving.

“Yes, you were incredible.” You’re truthful in your words.

Thankfully the others all around begin greedily vying for his attention.

As you turn to head home, that strange itch crawls over you again. Someone’s watching you.

So glancing around you think it must be Duke, but his attention is preoccupied.

However, it’s the handsome black cowboy hat stranger who again blatantly stares so direct at you.

A moment passes of you simply staring back at him.

However you break the contact first, needing to head home. But the entire way you sense his eyes blazing a hole on your back.

By the time you hit the edge of town towards your aunt’s cabin, the day creeps into early evening.

Above, vultures circle around high. However… there isn’t any sign of decay nearby.

- ☾𖤓 -

Your walk towards the tailor shop passes by the large stretch of land where the cowboys practice. Duke cries out your name excited. Politely you turn to greet him good morning only to find he’s not alone.

Other cowboys of course have come to wrestle in their skills. One of them surprises you.

The man you saw a few days ago is here.

His deep midnight eyes flicker to you immediately. That handsome face of his stays entirely composed.

Duke rattles on about his day. Yet you pay no attention as the new cowboy has stolen all your focus. The black cowboy hat he wears is dusty, weathered, and for some reason, you feel as if it both does and doesn’t suit him.

Duke chirps out your name again. Apologizing, you blame your dazed attention on lack of sleep.

Your night has been restless

“Hope ol’ lady Julie isn’t working y’too hard at the tailor shop.” He grins boyish and charming.

“Oh, Duke.” A smooth twang of a voice floats out. Waltzing in besides the cowboy, the newcomer arrives.

“You didn’t tell me your bird was so lovely.” His voice is curled with a smile and his voice, a deep drawl, draws an acidic venom in your mouth.

“I’m not his bird.” You politely reply.

“Not yet.” Duke adds warm, shy. But that only causes your stomach to squirm even more.

“Name’s Ezra, dear honeysuckle.” The newcomer introduces himself with a tip of his hat.

You nod back quietly giving him your name.

“Ezra came for the competition, traveled all this way just to try his hand at it!” Duke, ever the competitor, explains excited for the new competition.

Your eyes unfortunately stay on the newcomer rider.

Compared to Duke, Ezra’s frame is lithe. Then again, Duke with his incredibly tall stature is built like a terrifying boulder. Ezra’s broad shoulders and his striking sleek build makes you think of a river, fluid yet quietly powerful.

As unfortunately handsome as he is, his frame does not seem like a cowboy’s build.

Instead he reminds you of the traveling con man you once knew.

Duke continues rattling on and on about how proud he is to show off the town and this event.

You however hate the way Ezra’s eyes still on you make your skin tighten.

Excusing yourself with a soft nod, wishing them both well, you return on your way to the seamstress. Your body burns the entire way.

The day goes by slowly at the shop. After working on a few ruined blouses, Julie, the elderly shop owner, keeps you busy with tidying up. When the sun starts setting, the door clings open, and you wonder who’s coming in so late.

Ezra saunters in, and your throat tightens.

“Welcome in, newcomer!” Julie greets with a grandmotherly grace. “What can we do for you, good sir?”

Ezra smiles with all the charm of a gilded cactus.

“Seems I am in need of a new stitch for these gloves of mine.” Ezra explains pulling out worn gloves.

Leather frayed along the straps speak of the weathered and worn attention they’ve been given. But they seem too big for his hands. You even swear you’ve seen them before on his old business partner. But you don’t want to think too much on it.

Good dear sweet Julie chatters with the man. You simply stay quiet, not even turning to greet or address him.

You don’t even work on his gloves, deciding to let Julie handle them.

You even hide out in the back room, not even listening to when Ezra leaves.

Julie ends up heading home, and you’re left to close up. The sun sets a dusty fading apricot against the shadow of the tailor shop.

As you pass by the alleyway, suddenly you’re handed into the dark shadows. You’re about to scream, maybe even yelp, until a hand goes flying across your face, silencing you.

“Now now, pidge, don’t need you making too much of a holler.” Ezra.

Anger seethes in you, boiling. Violently and with a harsh yank, you tear yourself away from his grasp. You’re almost tempted to storm away.

“Didn’t think I’d ever be graced by your beauty again. That mother of yours still got that shotgun she threatened me with?” He smoothly asks with the amount of dangerous charm a rattlesnake would carry.

“What? This your last attempt at selling that watered down snake oil you call elixirs and tonics?” You snap back razor sharp.

When you first met Ezra, which now feels like lifetimes ago, he was a smooth talking traveling salesman. A drifter, as your mother so harshly called him.

Instead of the cowboy hat he wears now, he looked more stately in his bowler type cap.

He charmed so many of the women in town, trying to sell them the secrets to youth, vitality, beauty, and anything else he could promise in his elixir vials. You however, were not interested, saw right through his ruse.

Though, you realize now you were just as foolish as the others in town rapidly buying his lies. Because you had been just as charmed and fooled as they were.

This man, who’s sharp wit intrigued you, who spoke to you as an equal, became so dangerous because you were willing to give him everything.

Your heart, your body - all of you should have been reserved for your husband. Instead you freely gave everything to this thief.

The swindler swore he would take you with him, make you his wife. But when your mother’s fury came, he fled like a petrified jackrabbit.

You suppose he is more coyote than jackrabbit, greedily stealing anything he can then sneakily moving on.

Ezra’s composed grin on his face flickers, like all the history resting between you and him resurfaces within him.

“Didn’t you hear, pidgeon? My elixirs were plundered. Even my poor partner, god rest his dear soul, was shot down in cold blood!” Ezra explains with sorrow.

You had heard about that. At the edge of town, on the dirt road leading out into the hills, one of the sheriff’s found the large carriage and Ezra’s associate dead. The carriage crashed, run off the road. The damage screamed of the work of bandits. However, Ezra was nowhere to be found.

“I’m just supposed to believe you miraculously made it out of there alive?” You narrow your eyes suspiciously.

You don’t want to say it, but your instincts twist dangerously in your stomach. You wonder if Ezra did the deed himself, killed his partner and took the valuables.

Ezra shrugs sheepishly.

“That’s the way the desert works, honeysuckle. It’s a harsh landscape that only protects those who can survive its wrath.”

You forgot how much he spoke like a preacher sometimes, so elevated and otherworldly. You hate how badly your heart races just being this close to him again, hearing his voice again.

“So you’re telling me you came all the way here just to try your hand at the competition? Never even seen you ride, much less thrown a rope. Can’t imagine a con-man like you being a cowboy.” You reply skeptical.

He barks a laugh. “You'd be surprised. I’m a man composed of many unrevealed talents.”

You knew that very well.

Cautiously, treading like he’s approaching a mountain lion, Ezra steps closer to you. Out of instinct you step backwards closer to the other shop beside the tailors.

“Now don’t tell me you’re pondering the idea of telling everyone about my past life, pidge?” His voice is low, calm but brewing like an approaching storm.

“Because it pains me just imagining the repercussions that could arise if ya did.” He mutters, and your throat gets tight.

There's an underlying threat below his words.

Fiercely, stubbornly, you glare at him, refusing to speak. But you know you won’t say anything. He must know it too. You’ve left your past far back at home. And you don’t want him reviving your ghosts either.

Suddenly the back of Ezra’s hand gingerly, barely touching your skin, grazes against your cheek. He whispers out your name.

“The years out here have made you bloom, like a beautiful desert petal.” He mumbles with hazed eyes.

Out of spite you snap your face away and scowl even harder at him.

“I have to get home.” You snap angrily, managing to finally remove yourself from him.

“The motel houses me for the time being,” he declares from behind in the shadows.

“Unless that blonde Galahad cowboy of yours is keeping your bed warm now?” Ezra adds almost amused.

Rage bursts a furious fire in you, and it consumes you in its heated path.

“Rot in hell.” You snarl whipping back to him.

“As long as you keep me company, beautiful.” Ezra replies coy.

You’re about to curse his soul when he stomps towards you, fast and steady. His hand flings to your face, pulls you back to the shadow of the tailor shop.

He kisses you with the fierce intensity of a sudden dust storm. It even shakes your soul, spins you around, as if you were caught in an actual twister.

He tastes like the faint hints of a cigar, but something still so deliciously sinful and him. Your knees want to buckle when he easily slips his tongue inside and immediately coaxes his against yours.

You whimper, don’t even realize he’s maneuvered you to the wall of the shop, until your back gently hits the cool wood building.

It’s like your body is imprinted to his, completely answering his call, willingly and wanting to be closer to him while your hands clutch at his broad shoulders.

His body pins you firm against the building, and already he grinds his hips into you.

Then the laughter nearby bursts the bubble, snaps your attention clear.

You scramble and rapidly shove Ezra away. You don’t say another word and simply walk away.

However your lips continue to sting, as if bitten by a bee. Your hands ache empty like they’re missing the presence of his body in their grasp.

You can’t fall for this trap again.

But by the time you arrive back home, greet your aunt warmly, the lie spills from your lips before you can stop it.

“Julie wants to start the inventory sooner. So I’ll be heading back and staying over at the shop.”

Your aunt doesn’t question you, simply grins sweet and wishes you a safe trip back to town.

The sun barely sets in for the night over the horizon. The sky is a dusty blue, the softest color before bleeding into a dark midnight. The desert at night is another creature entirely. Even as you walk into town, you try to stay aware and low from any curious eyes.

The motel approaches fast. The caretaker gives you a curious look but before he can, he’s called away.

Ezra already waits for you at the top of the stairs, hidden in the shadows but still so distinct among them.

He doesn’t tease you, doesn’t even greet you. His presence seems so different with how intense he stares at you. Simply moving to intertwine his hand with yours, he guides you to his room. Inside it’s like the world melts away. It’s only you and him.

He devours you, ravenous, like trying to both make up for lost time and also feel like not a day has passed. Your hands run through his hair, knock off his cowboy hat.

You hate how badly you’ve missed this, missed him. He’s the only man your body has known, and the nights you’ve ached for him your fingers never did him justice.

When you’re bare among his bed, and his fingers slide into your wet core, you whine against his lips.

“This cunt still mine, pretty girl?” He asks mutter.

You wearily nod then all thoughts shatter when he rubs against that certain spot you can never reach. Your body crashes in a climax so shakily fast you have to catch your breath against him.

Ezra kisses the top of your head over and over.

“That’s my sweet peach,” he says in awe.

You greedily now pull him towards you, aching even more for him to be inside.

But he’s not finished with you. Ezra greed swallows your sigh before his lips move down your bare body to your core and kisses you with reverent devotion.

Your body melts into the sheets feeling his tongue trace paths among your wet cunt.

Ezra firmly calls your name. It sounds like your soul is being brought back. Wearily you sit up to see him peering up at you between your legs. Slowly he lifts himself away from your cunt, his face glistening with your arousal.

Those obsidian eyes of his blazing in the candlelight lock you in their gaze. Keeping eye contact with you he suddenly spits down to your wet aching sex, and your mind spins.

It’s obscene, you should be disgusted and horrified. You even wonder if you’ve been transported to the brothel a few ways down the road. But it feels absolutely divine especially when he does it again.

“Oh she likes this.” Ezra coo’s then presses ever the softest kiss against your soaked throbbing pearl. “This pretty little cunt, my lovely lady, ache for me huh?”

You don’t argue with him. You don’t want to. He makes you come again and a creature raw and hungry awakens in you. You claw at him, now needing him inside.

It’s like a piece of yourself returns when Ezra slides into you. It’s hot, heavy, frantic but feels sacred.

Ezra must sense it too, because he doesn’t last long. When he spills over your tummy, his hands become claws and keep you caged in his grasp. Your con artist kisses every inch of you he can.

Sweaty and tangled in him, you still feel a tinge of sadness creep in.

“You left me.” You whimper against his lips.

“And it will haunt me until my dying breath.” Ezra sighs back, his voice weighing heavy. “I was planning to come back for you, my bird. But your mother…”

She had put a bounty out on your drifter, managed to get the sheriff on her side. You knew even in your anger at Ezra leaving, it was smart of him to escape.

His hand cradles your face, and his thumb strokes your cheekbone. Those endless eyes shimmer in the low light.

“But I’m here now, pidge.” Sincerity radiates from him.

You’re now able to bask in his beauty - his gorgeous jaw, his beautiful nose, the striking streak of blonde hair that has been hidden under his hat and you’ve been dying to see.

You nuzzle your face into his palm.

“What are you doing here? Truly?” You ask.

“I told you,” Ezra says, drawing your face towards him to kiss you tender again. “I’m here to try and prove myself victorious.”

You’re not sure you believe his words.

But you end up staying with him. Early morning, before the sun reaches over the desert, his fingers trace your face waking you up.

“Dawn bathes you in her glory.” He mutters. Embarrassed at his words you burrow your face into the pillow.

He doesn’t chase you, but instead lets his fingers draw aimless shapes against your shoulder.

“There wasn’t a day where you did not occupy my mind, even after all these years.” Ezra admits low, as if he didn’t realize those words escaped him.

Slowly you turn towards him and discover those deep eyes hazed over staring at you.

“I hate you.” You tell him without any malice. In fact an emotion something very opposite of hatred soaks your words.

“I know. I’d hate me too.” Ezra agrees muttering then leans down to kiss you gingerly.

You have to leave before the town wakes up, and to seal your alibi.

With a final kiss goodbye, you head to the tailor shop.

Julie finds you in the shop when she arrives and applauds you for your diligence and wanting to get a jump start on inventory. You’re thankful the lie worked out this way. You even manage to convince her to let you finish inventory the rest of the week. Of course she happily agrees.

Ezra drops by to pick up his riding gloves and winks at you shamelessly. You roll your eyes but hate how badly you fight against a grin.

The next few days are spent between the shop and the motel. You already brace your heart for Ezra’s departure approaching once the tournament is over, but you try not to face that.

“You’ve been in a rather good mood.” Your aunt notices when you stop by to drop off goods for her.

“Thought you hated inventory.” She comments.

“Guess not.” You reply with a shrug.

This blissful cloud you’re walking in however does cloud your mind. It makes you sloppy. Instead of taking the longer path to the motel, the one that kept you away from the views of the main road and town, you walk straight into town.

Running right into Duke Williams.

He says your name bright and clear. Dread dawns on you fast.

“Haven’t seen you ‘round. Heard Julie’s got ya working extra hard.” Duke smiles.

You hate this small town and the small whispers that spread like wildfire.

You reassure Duke you’re fine and are even glad you can help Julie.

All his friends, in their sleek cowboy hats, and dusty spurs, stand off to the side snicker. They crowd around each other like an ominous pack of wolves.

One of them even calls your name.

“Might wanna enjoy this freedom while it last!” He proclaims, and your stomach twists.

The other guys snickers, shushing him playfull, and even Duke turns around to reprimand him.

“What does he mean by that?” You cautiously question.

Duke simply waves the conversation off instead offering to walk you to the tailors.

You politely decline.

“Aw come on, sweet thing like you shouldn’t be walking alone at night.” Duke smiles but even with his sweet eyes you’re reminded of a crocodile now.

“Well gentleman, that’s why i’ll accompany this lovely bird to her destination.” Emerging from the shadows Ezra grins warm.

He must have come to find you after you hadn’t shown up at the motel.

The men including Duke go eerily silent. Ezra is older than Duke and the younger men. So he holds seniority now. But besides that, Duke now seems wary, and you don’t blame him. Ezra is a man that radiates a sort of unpredictable energy.

“You sure you don’t want me to walk ya back now?” You almost appreciate the slight genuine worry leaking into Duke’s voice. But shaking your head you move to walk with Ezra by your side.

You do hate how all eyes are on you, even walking away from Duke and his mindless followers.

“Just remain calm.” Ezra mutters.

You do especially with him by your side. By the time you open the tailors you thank Ezra, worried Duke and his men are still watching.

You whisper for him to meet you behind the shop, and he does. Your swindler willingly steps into the back room with you.

“Not my ideal choice for our evening, but I do love a good change of scenery.” Ezra comments amused browsing around the storage. Playfully, you throw a ball of yarn at him.

You’re surprised he even helps you with the small bit of inventory you do.

“That young buck…” until his voice comes out low. “He’s fond of you.”

“Unfortunately.” You reply back unamused.

“Earlier at the saloon…he was boasting.” Ezra continues with the same serious tone.

“About enjoying the last days of being an unmarried man.”

That causes you to pause.

“Must mean he’s gotten over me.” You sigh, thank goodness.

“No pidge…” Ezra stops to turn towards you. “He was proclaiming how you were to be his bride.”

Your stomach drops.

You think of the way the boys just now snickered almost knowingly, and that strange comment one of themselves said -

All of it makes your stomach sick, and you have to sit down.

No. There was just no way.

“I’d never accept his proposal.” You snap out hating how badly your body feels frantic, almost skittish like a cornered road runner.

Ezra kneels before you rubbing your hand with his, a strange solid comfort.

Eventually he gathers you into his arms and calms you with soothing soft words.

“We’ll figure out a solution.”

You still don’t know if you can trust his words. But that's all you have. Your drifter stays with you overnight in the tailor shop. You even feel sinful fucking him in the back room but it’s deliciously sinfull all the same.

Sitting and resting against the work desk you fade in and out of sleep. Tender fingers brush against your fingers, ghost like. Ezra is gone by the time you wake up and Julie’s entering the shop jolts you awake.

Her eyes are frazzled.

“Did you hear? Mister Johnston’s eldest son was shot down early this morning.”

You hadn’t heard. Dread fills you fast when you realize Johnston's boy was the one who had made the joking comment to you last night.

There’s talk about postponing the competition. But others in town, especially Duke, argue to continue the tradition in a way to honor the fallen young man.

An ominous terror looms in you.

Later that night, you return to the motel. Too many thoughts swarm in your head, and Ezra even seems distant. He even slides his duster jacket one before kissing you.

“I have some personal matters to attend to, pidge. Get some respite here.”

His boots echo down the hall and then down the stairs.

You can’t sleep. So you move to slide open the window and let some of the night air in.

The faint mutter of discussion very close outside in the alleyway floats into the room.

It’s muffled at first, but once you step closer and concentrate, you pick up the very familiar cadence of a certain drifter.

“No no, I have it covered. As long as you make sure to double the bets on me tomorrow.” Ezra explains in a hush.

The others with him explain the different amounts they’ve collected, and it hits you.

He’s gambling on the competition.

That’s why he’s here.

You knew the men at the saloon often bet, but this feels heavier.

A new clicking of spurs arrives.

“Y’know, you fellas look like a dangerous bunch all here hidden in the shadows.” Duke.

Panic prickles all over your body.

“Now young buck, we’re just here partaking in a fun and friendly wager.” Ezra with his smooth talking skills deflates the tension easily.

“Waggerin’ on what?” You’re surprised Duke immediately quickly jumps in to gamble.

Ezra and the other men begin conspiring on how to make sure Duke wins to favor the odds of their bets.

“I like the sound of that.” Duke grins.

He makes a hefty wager on himself to win, the price even makes someone whistle.

They offer to place their wagers on him as well and with Ezra even in the competition, he’s argued to be an even better reassurance that the outcome falls in their favor.

Ezra even swears by this.

They’re fixing the match, going to cheat. You don’t know how to feel about any of this.

They end their discussion, and you quietly slide back into bed. Before long Ezra returns, the smell of tobacco and the cold air lingers in the room.

His fingers dance against your shoulders while your back stays to him.

“You’re only here… to make money, and cheat.” You mutter hollow.

His fingers stop.

“You overheard.”

You don’t reply to him. Ezra sighs.

“Indeed I am. But I’m no different than the gentlemen that place simple wagers on a game of horseshoe.” He explains low, under the whisper of the candle flicker.

“But it’s like you’re wanting to play with a weighted or lighter horseshoe.” You argue back.

“Is it not in our best natures to make sure Lady Luck favors us by any means possible?”

You don’t know how to reply to him.

“…I’m doing this for you, for us.” He adds.

You turn to him, your face scrunching up in fury.

“Bullshit.” You tell him.

“Believe me a liar, but I’m honest in my endeavor.” His face becomes a firm steeled frown.

You can’t look at him anymore, turning your back again to Erza in bed.

“My hope was to gain enough funds to pay for the bounty your mother placed on me, return for your hand, and make our way into a new life together.” His voice is steady.

“Unless you wish to stay here and wed that Duke.” He offers.

You whip back to glare harsh at Ezra.

There’s a silence heavy and ancient like the desert that settles between you. But it doesn’t last long before Ezra leans down and sweeps in to capture your lips

The discussion dies immediately as passion burns in its place.

You don’t think of gambling cowboys, or of your mysterious drifter, only of the moment consuming you now, and you almost pray you never leave it.

- ☾𖤓 -

Late in the night, wearily half sleep, the bed shifting jolts you awake, and you even hear the door creak open. Before you can ask Ezra if he’s alright, your eyes so sleepy flutter close for a moment. Then he’s sliding back into the warmth pulling you close into his arms. You fall right back to your dreams.

In the early hours of the morning, Ezra kisses your jaw.

“My lucky charm, are you going to observe our tournament today?” He mutters.

The competition was today.

“You nervous?” You had never seen him ride much less try ranch hand work.

“Never.” He says smoothly.

Eventually he slides out of bed and lets you get ready. But soon Ezra walks over and places something in your hands.

The pistol weighs heavy, cold. And your eyes snap open wide now fully awake.

“Why-”

He cuts you off gently. “You know how to fire, yes?”

You nod weakly.

A small smirk tugs at his handsome lips. “Figured as much, after seeing your mother.”

It’s an attempt to tease, but too much terror bubbles in you.

“I just need to know you’re protected.” Ezra reveals, but with a croak you ask why.

“Cause unfortunate as it might be, it’s even more dangerous for a criminal like me to cherish something.”

Your eyes water. There are too many questions in your head, but the day will be starting soon. You need to leave before you’re spotted.

“Tell me you have another gun.” You snap at him.

Ezra simply taps the side of his head. “Don’t need another firearm when I have this weapon.”

You angrily throw the pistol down back to the bed, refusing to take it. That’s when he snaps your name, hard and serious.

You’ve never heard his voice raise like that.

“Take it.” He grabs the firearm and hands it back to you. His midnight eyes are ominously serious with no room for argument.

His hand grabs your face firm in his hand. Your eyes search his endless midnight lake eyes.

“I call you pidge, my little pigeon bird. But I’ve known right from the start you’re a fierce creature. Don’t ever forget that.”

Ezra’s words are beautiful but barbed. They rip up tracks in your heart. He kisses you quick, fierce and short. You hate how it feels like a goodbye.

With shaking hands and confusion, you slide the gun into your satchel. You walk back to your aunt's cabin in a daze. So much so that you barely notice she’s already awake when you sneak back in.

“You have fun at the motel again?” She asks, and fear freezes you.

“I wasn’t-”

“Mac, your uncle’s good friend, gave me the heads up.” She cuts you off softly.

Mac, the innkeeper. God damn this small town. Venom, anger, indignation, they all swirl violently in you.

“Whatever you’re doing there, you’re only gonna find danger.” She says somber, and you stay quiet.

Your aunt sighs.

“You’re lucky this hasn’t gotten out yet. What would young Duke say if he found out?”

Frustration bursts in you, and you snap furious about why would you even need to care about that man’s opinion of you.

“Because he plans on weddin’ you, and I plan on letting him.” Your aunt fires back and her words shoot right through you.

Your legs feel like they’re about to give out, even have to steady yourself against the nearby chair.

You thought your aunt understood. She’s been alone, a widow since she was around your age, longer than your mother had been a widow. You thought she’d never fall into the trap of forcing marriage.

“It’s for your own good.” She argues, watery urgent m. “You need protection, a home, a husband to provide for you.”

You rush out of the house even ignoring the screams from your aunt.

You’d have to think of a plan fast. Maybe leave with Ezra once the competition ends today. It’s all too much. You swallow back a sob and walk back into town.

The competition was today after all.

The day at the shop is very short. Julie doesn’t even notice your somber atmosphere as she’s completely caught up in the excitement of this day. So many more wagons stretch around the edge of town.

Pecos flutters alive with life.

But there’s already commotion, a dangerous kind that chokes the competition tense.

Duke yells loud and furious. The sheriff along with his deputies are nearby. Thankfully you spot Martha and quickly move to ask her what’s going on.

“Duke’s horse is missing.” She whispers.

From what Martha says, when Duke went to the stables this morning the gate was open and his horse was nowhere to be seen. His trusty companion, you even knew how serious an issue this is.

“Well young buck, if you’re that upset then maybe you shouldn’t partake in the festivities.” Ezra, out of thin air, offers.

He looks confident as he strolls up.

“Or you simply ride with another mare?” He proposes with a coy optimism.

“Fuck you!” Duke snaps at Ezra and even looks as if he’s going to lunge.

Your heart hammers hard in your chest. Thankfully the sheriff settles the commotion down.

Angered but stubborn, Duke declares he’s staying to compete and will simply use another horse. He is favored to win after all.

Other cowboys from out of town have blown in like packs of tumbleweed. So many of them are excited to participate and try their hand at showing off their rancher skills

Some are good.

But it is Ezra who proves to be the dark horse, the surprise underdog.

Watching him on his stallion, your throat goes dry seeing how effortless and strong he manages his horse. You never knew he could ride. The way he maneuvers and stays a quiet presence, he reminds you of an outlaw.

“Moves like a bandit.” Someone in the crowd even whispers.

His rope throwing skills however surprise everyone, including yourself. The calf he manages to wrangle takes you by shock. A dangerous lust slithers over your body watching him wrangle the animal with his strength and sturdy form.

But you realize -

This wasn’t what had been planned. From the discussion given last night, Ezra was meant to perform poorly to make sure Duke did better.

But this is exactly the opposite.

He’s the lead runner for champion of the competition.

And then Duke’s turn arrives. The crowd mummers curious, on edge waiting for the favored cowboy to make his move.

The horse he uses is not cooperative. Duke screams, unable to hide his frustration in wrangling the creature.

But once he stabilizes a manageable ride, he goes to lasso the calf. His rope lands and the crowd cheers. He’s already faster than Ezra.

Until the frayed rope snaps and the calf yanks itself free.

The crowd gasps.

It’s not an immediate disqualification, but it doesn’t look good. Duke argues that his rope was frayed and that someone must have slowly started cutting at it. However it’s a long shot argument. There’s no way to prove that and even the sheriff seems a little wary of the accusation.

“That’s just the way rope is son, you just gotta keep an eye on it.”

Duke screams in anguish canyon splitting anger. You’ve never once seen him like this. It’s like it’s a whole new man, or maybe, his true self being revealed.

He’s offered another rope, but it’s almost horrifying to watch that one as well snap. The crowd again gasps.

This wasn’t the outcome meant to happen.

“Duke’s cursed.” Someone mumbles.

The crowd is in disbelief, you even are. The last remaining competitors try their luck, but none can beat Ezra’s speed.

You can’t believe it. But he won.

And Duke is livid. The crowd tentatively applauds Ezra’s win because of the somber mood clashing.

“You bastard! You goddamn cheated!” Duke screams at Ezra while the deputies try settling him down.

“Poor boy,” Ezra says sympathetically before turning to find you in the crowd.

There’s a gleam of something proud shimmering in his dark eyes.

You don’t question it, don’t want to.

Ezra truly is a man of many facets, dangerous ones, like looking at a raw gemstone that could cut your fingers.

The competition spills into the nearby saloons, and the festivities only seem to intensify as the sun starts setting. You can’t even reach Ezra from the groups swirling around him and want to get as far away from Duke as possible.

So you return back to the tailor shop. Julie urges you to join her and the other women at the mayor’s large property, but you decline.

You simply sit in the store trying to muster up a plan. But in a blink, the night arrives and you have to find Ezra.

So after locking up the shop, you head to the motel.

Until the sound of Duke’s screaming and the rage of violence roars nearby.

You freeze, terrified.

Until someone wearily coughs. “That’s what ya get for gamblin’ with bandits, boy.”

Your swindler’s distinct twang drawls smug and now your body rushes to the secluded alleyway.

You swallow back a scream at the sight you stumble upon. Duke with blood fists has Ezra pinned against the wall, like a mythological creature, terrifying and large looking over with violence in his wake.

Ezra’s face is bloody and one of his arms even hangs limp.

“Pidge.” He coughs, and your heart aches.

Duke whips around to see you and barks for you to leave.

Shakily you snatch down to your bag, and whip out the gun to point it to him. Duke’s face falls a bit confused.

“Honey this man wronged me, I’m only enacting my justice.” He argues.

You snap at him to let Ezra go or else.

That’s when a sinister evil darkens Duke’s golden boy face.

“So, ya little god damn whore…you’re workin’ with this man aren’t ya? I knew I should’ve listened to all the rumors about a slut like you.” He spits with venom leaking from his voice.

“Don’t you touch her.” Ezra snarls, but Duke pays him no mind keeping his sinister eyes on you.

“What?” Duke slowly mutters. “Do ya really think you’re gonna shoot me?”

Tears fill your eyes. You don’t want to, but the way your heart races like a terrified Jack rabbit it screams at you to flee. But… you also wonder if your heart races because it’s urging you to attack, to bare your fangs.

Instead of releasing Ezra, Duke moves to grip his coat harder. He slams your drifter hard and fast against the wall. A painful crack-like smack comes, and you scream.

You fire the gun instantly.

Duke blinks, you even wonder if you landed a hit.

Until deep dark crimson, almost the color of dark sludge, leaks across Duke’s side. He crumbles like a fall leaf.

You cry scrambling to Ezra who thankfully is still standing. Duke wheezes out obscenities and even tries hollering for help. You’re however too worried about Ezra.

“M’fine,” your drifter reassures with a wheeze.

“Hand me the gun, dearest.” Ezra somberly mutters. When you do, without hesitation Ezra fires the gun point black down at Duke. And your eyes shut hearing the pistol strike. Duke goes quiet and stays silent.

“Come on, we gotta hurry.” Ezra urges.

Supporting his body, you manage to get him into the tailor shop to tend to his wounds.

Ezra coughs out your name. “M’dearest, I need to make my escape out of town once more.” His breathing his heaved, he needs to rest.

“Don’t leave me.” You cry sharp, unable to focus on anything now.

His hand slides to your face and he cradles you tenderly. You clutch at his wrist as you blink back tears starting at him now.

“It will not be a pleasant life, staying with a devil like me.” He mumbles.

Doesn't he realize, you’re just as tarnished as him now? Blood is on your hands. You simply turn to kiss the palm of his hand feeling more reassured than ever.

“I’d rather be with the devil than live without him.” You speak soft into his skin while tears dry on your cheeks.

He barks a hollow but watery thick laugh as he says your name. “You foolish bird, my lovely dangerous creature.”

The desert is unforgiving to those who do now learn to grow fangs or become just as fierce as its landscape. You wonder if that’s what has become of you. But you don’t question it. You simply gather all you can, steal one of the horses from the saloon and keep Ezra close to you on the saddle.

If Ezra is a devil, then you’re grateful he saved you from your hell. And for him, you will gladly stain your soul.

Under the eternal eyes of the desert, you wander into the night keeping your bandit close to you.

In the distance a lone coyote howls aching at the moon.

You don’t look back once.

[ilovechuuy4]

S/O gifting Chuuya a puppy for his birthday? ≧◡≦

I Was Meant For You, Baby. Being With You Makes the Flame Burn Good. ✧٭*꙳

Warnings; none other than thicker paragraphs

Description; Giving your boyfriend a pet for his birthday!

A/N; Sorry if this took so long! I wanted 2 wait till chuuyas birthday since it isn't too far from nikolai's! Hope you enjoy!! Also I was flooded out my house (literally) so please bare with me! (HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BEAUTIFUL BEST WIFE!1!1!1!!1!2?2?2?2?1!1!1!1!) (F/N is friends name)

You glance at the clock on the wall, 5:23PM a nice Sunday evening on the 28th of April. You had a day until Chuuyas birthday but you already knew what you were getting for his present, that's why you were sitting in a pet adoption center right now. There were dogs barking, cats meowing and other animals noises. Needlessly to say, it was loud.

You were waiting for a specific dog to come out. It was the perfect one for Chuuya. You waited a bit longer until you saw the door open that led to the animals and there runs a puppy, it was a golden retriever. The puppy's coat was this bright shiny golden blonde with these soft brown eyes. Maybe the energy of the dog was different from chuuya's but surely it'll mix well no matter what.

The golden dog's tail was wagging frantically as the employee let go of the small leash, letting the dog go as it jumped in your lap, licking at your face. You laugh softly, running your nails in the coat of the new fluffy companion.

You reach into your pocket and grab your wallet and take out the money; paying the employee. They take the money with a soft nod and fill somethings out before letting you go. You had to keep the dog at a friends house for only a day since chuuya's birthday wasn't until the next day.

You drop the entergetic animal off at F/N apartment for the day while you not only go shopping for a cake but for the puppy too. You make your way to the closest store, making your way to the small bakery built inside. You talk to the baker who was at the front, telling her exactly what you want and what time I'd be picked up, around 3pm tomorrow; Monday, April 29th. You watched as she jotted the details down and she nodded. "Alright ma'am/sir, that'll be around $20 (around 335 in pesos and 3,086 in Japanese yen.) tomorrow when you pick it up." The kind woman said with a thankful smile.

Once you pre-ordered, you scurry off through the market, grabbing chuuya a new fedora to add to his collection along with a nice red wine. You then make your way to the pet isle. There was a lot but you got the essentials; dog food, specifically wet food since it was only a puppy, chew toys, treats, bowls etc. Then you walk your way to check out spending around a good $150(23,197 yen or 2,557 Pecos) you sigh, the hat was pretty expensive, it was around 80-90 USD. You rub the back of your neck as you leave the store, bags in hand.

You drive home, entering the house but keeping the bags in trunk of your car. Once you are inside the house, slipping off your shoes and coat, you are met with a slightly upset blue eyed man, your boyfriend. His arms crossed over his narrow chest, his bright blue irises dangerously showing his mood of anger. "Where were you? You're usually home hours before I am, but I'm here hours before you are home?" Chuuya questions, he was very serious.

"Well I was uhm.." You stamppered, you couldn't make up a good enough excuse. "I was at my friends house, F/N? them?" You said, rubbing the back of your neck. You were obviously lying, nothing could get past the ginger even if you tried. "I won't push, doll. But you gotta tell me when you won't be home. I was worried." He stated, he never pushed you to tell him where you were, he wanted to it come out naturally with no force, he didn't like trying to push answers out, it felt odd to him.

Chuuya walked forward and embraced you, holding you close, hands holding your hips. "Let's go order some food and watch a movie, yeah?" Chuuya recommended, gently grazing your lips with his. You smile and nod as you follow him to the couch. The night grew and the both of y'all became tired. "Let's go to bed, darlin'." He said, gently lifting your to red body off the couch and into yalls shared bedroo, laying you don't and slipping under the covers with you.

As the night wore and the day grew you shirt confortably in the bed, waking up with a yawn. It was 2pm, Chuuya had let you sleep in since you were out so late last night doing god knows what (or at least he didn't know what you were doing.) You yawn, stretching your bones as they pop and crack, the sounds sending shivers down your spine. You yawn onces more before getting out of bed.

You scurry around the bedroom, taking a shower, drying your hair and putting on your clothes you were going to wear to pick up and cake and the puppy. Nothing big, something simple. You grab your bag with your wallet and walk out the house, getting into your car and driving to the same store. You were only a couple minutes early but that was always a good thing as you walked to the bakery section. The same lady greets you with a welcoming smile as he walks to the back, bringing back the cake.

The cake with a simple French vanilla. Thick, swirly dollops of icing, boarding around the top and bottom. The bottom layered with dark chocolate shavings, those also layered at the top on top of the swirls of icing. In black icing, a neat, swirly cursive wrote; "Happy birthday Chuuya." You take out your wallet to pay the kind lady with a smile before taking your card back and walking out the store.

Once leaving the store, you stop by F/N house and pick up the fluffy compainion. It was jumping around, barking and other nonsense in the back seat of the car as you pull up to your house. You reach back, putting the leash on the collar and helping the puppy out the car. It runs inside the house as you squat down to feed it, pouring the food into the bowl in the back room where you sadly had to keep the cute golden for a few minutes more before your boyfriend came home.

You put the fedora and red wine in a small bag and stuff it with tissue paper. You gently place it on the marbled counter top as you take out the cake from the fridge and placing it beside the gift bag. Before you knew it, you heard the rustingly of keys and the front door unlocking, the hinges on the door squeeking as it opened, and there behold your beautiful boyfriend.

"Doll, I'm home. How ar-" his sentence cut off, his eyes going to the gift and cake, a smile spreading on his face as he looked at you. "You know, you shouldn't have?" He said with a chuckle, walking towards you and wrapping you in a hug, hands going around your waist. "I uhm.. I have another gift for you." You said with a nervous giggle before you could say anything else there was barking in the back ground, making chuuyas eyes widen.

"You got a dog?! Where?" Chuuya exclaimed, his eyes wide but he seemed excited. You gently pull away from Chuuya, scurrying to the room the dog was confined in, opening the door. You watched as the puppy hopped and jumped, running around before going to the taken aback chuuya. His eyes widden in gleam as he squats down to pet it was a smile.

"You really got a fuckin' dog?" He said unbelieved, running his hand down the dogs thick coat of fur. "I mean yeah. I know you wanted one so, what do you wanna name her?" You ask with a smile. "Princess." He said, he was straightforward with it and he meant it, this dog's name was gonna be princess and you were well aware it was going to be spoiled like one.

"Mhm alright, princess it is." You say with a slight laugh. You watch as Chuuya stands up and walks over to you hugging you tight. "You don't know how much you; and this. means to me, darlin'. I love you so much." He murmurs softly, kissing your lips slowly, Princess directly between yalls legs.

[muxas-world2]

This video… the forced smile + the awkward spray + the stand peco you are so beloved to my soul

[s10127470]

A Magic Kingdom Christmas

It was Christmas Eve, and over in ToonTown, at McDuck Manor, a huge Christmas party was being thrown, all courtesy of Mickey Mouse.

All of Mickey's close friends were all enjoying themselves, doing their own things.

Donald and Daisy were getting ready to sit down on the couch together, all while looking at each other with enamoured looks. But right when they sat down, a loud fart was heard on Donald's side, much to to their shock and Donald's embarrassment, prompting his face to turn red. But upon looking down, Donald would find a whoopie cushion underneath him. After seeing it, he heard what sounded like snickering, and upon turning to the left, he saw Huey, Dewey and Louie.

"Why you little....." Donald angrily muttered as his face started to turn red.

Soon enough, he got up yelling and started chasing his nephews, who were laughing during the whole thing. Meanwhile, Daisy just sighed and rolled her eyes.

Goofy was decorating the Christmas tree, all while standing up on a stool.

But suddenly, the stool toppled over, taking Goofy with him, prompting him to land face-first on the floor.

Roger and Jessica Rabbit were kissing under the mistletoe.

Max was awkwardly flirting with Roxanne.

Chip, Dale, Monterey Jack, Gadget, Zipper, Pete, PJ, Pistol and Bobby were helping themselves at the food table.

Peg was chatting with Clarabelle, Della and Horace.

And Webby was playing with Pluto.

However, there was one person not enjoying himself.

And that was, ironically enough, Mickey himself, who was looking rather worried.

"Oi, Mickey. What's the matter?" Scrooge asked.

"Oh, sorry Scrooge. It's just that the party officially starts in 30 minutes, and I haven't seen any signs of the others." Mickey answered.

"Don't worry, lad. I'm sure they'll be here soon." Scrooge stated.

Over in The Land of Legends, up in the woods of Oregon, Paul Bunyan had just cut down a massive Ponderosa pine.

Soon after, Paul picked up the massive tree and slung it over his right shoulder.

"Well Babe! Looks like we got the perfect tree for the party!" Paul said to his faithful ox, who nodded in agreement, "Now we all gotta do is find a quick way to ToonTown."

"We can help with that!"

Upon hearing this, Paul and Babe instantly looked down at the railroad right below them, where they saw the legendary locomotive, Cannonball, which was being driven by who else? But Casey Jones.

And inside the train were the people of The Lands of Legends (as well all the other realms of Westernland), who were all sticking their heads out the windows.

“Hey fellas! Heading off to the party?” Paul greeted his friends down below.

“You bet we are!” John Henry responded.

“Same here, but I think I’m gonna be late.” Paul stated.

“I don’t think so, big guy.” Pecos Bill remarked as he pointed over towards the end of the train, which had a massive open cart that was huge enough to fit Paul, Babe and the pine, much to their surprise.

“Did you guys make that?” Paul asked.

“Yep! Just for you and Babe!” Johnny Appleseed answered, prompting Paul to smile wide.

"Well then.....what are we waiting for?" Paul said as he and Babe immediately got into their speciality cart, "Let's get this show on the road!"

"Way ahead of you, Paul!" Casey called out.

And with the pull of a lever, The Cannonball instantly took off as fast as a speeding bullet.

High up in the skies of Neverland, the people of the realms of Fantasyland were soaring, thanks to some pixie dust.

While most of the people were doing quite fine, some were struggling.

Like Eugene, who was looking quite uneasy and frequently stumbling in mid-air.

"P-P-Peter, was this really the best way to get to the party?" Eugene asked.

"Of course it is, Eugene! By flying, we'll get to ToonTown in no time!" Peter answered.

"Well, as you can clearly see, some of us are not exactly the best at flying." Eugene stated.

"Don't worry, Fitzherbert! It just takes some time to get used to it. Just keep thinking happy thoughts, and you'll be good!" Peter explained.

"Happy thoughts, huh?" Eeyore questioned in his usual sullen tone.

Just then, he slowly started to descend, much to his and everyone else's shock.

"Oh no...." Eeyore stated with a frightened look.

Luckily, Belle quickly swooped down and grabbed Eeyore.

"Thanks Belle." Eeyore said with a small smile.

"You're welcome, Eeyore!" Belle responded.

Over in London Town, Roger and Anita were getting into their car, which was accompanied by Pongo and Perdita, Casey, his wife Mrs. Casey, and their nine daughters The Caseyettes, Mary Poppins, Lady, Tramp, Jock, Trusty, and The Dapper Dans.

"Alright gang, is everyone ready?" Roger looked back and asked the group.

"YEAH!" everyone cheered.

"Great! Then we're good to go!" Roger exclaimed.

"Now hold on Roger. Aren't we forgetting something?" Anita asked her husband.

Although confused at first, Roger finally realized what she met as a white lightbulb with black spots appeared briefly above him.

And so, Roger proceeded to whistle, much to the confusion of everyone else.

But that confusion would instantly fade when they felt the ground beneath them shake.

Soon enough, the entire was flooded with Pongo and Perdita's 99 puppies.

"Okay! Now we're good to go!" Roger exclaimed as he and Anita were smushed against the window.

And with that, the group finally took off.

Over at Springfield, the main families and friends of the ToonTown realms were all riding in The Simpsons' car, which was expanded (thanks to Phineas and Ferb) in order to fit everyone.

"Okay gang! We should be arriving in ToonTown in no time!" Homer exclaimed.

But suddenly, Penny was hit with a wave of realization.

"Guys! We have to go back to Wizville!" Penny screamed in a panicking tone, startling everyone.

"Why?!" Homer asked.

"We forgot my friends!" Penny answered.

Upon hearing this, everyone's expressions instantly turned to non-caring ones and Homer didn't show any signs of turning around.

"Uh.....guys?" Penny asked, confused.

Over in the vast space of The Galaxy Far, Far Away, The Rebel Alliance were flying in The Millennium Falcon, where in the cockpit, they were listening to a particularly strange song on the radio.

It was obviously sung by Chewbacca, and it sounded like he was singing the melody of Silent Night.

Everyone was absolutely confused, Chewbacca was looking quite proud of himself, and Han just looked annoyed.

"Uh........Han. What the hell is this?" Luke asked.

"This is Chewie's Christmas album." Han answered.

"Chewie has a Christmas album?! But how? He can't even talk!" Luke asked, genuinely stunned.

"Hey, they'll make anyone a star nowadays." Han remarked.

Over in Cosmopolis, the characters of the Tomorrowland realms were all riding in Jumba's ship.

Unfortunately, they were currently stuck in intergalactic traffic.

Everyone was looking rather bored, while Stitch, who was in the driver's seat, was looking quite angry.

After hearing a honk, Stitch proceeded to yell in his alien language, much to everyone's shock.

"Stitch! You can't say that about people's mothers!" Woody stated.

Over in The World of Marvels, the heroes and their close associates were flying in The Quinjet, which was being driven by Spider-Man (P), who was jamming out to the radio.

They were using an old-fashioned map of the realms to find a way to ToonTown.

"Okay, now we gotta go south. No I mean.....uh...." Wolverine was trying to give directions, "I don't know man. Who do I look like, Magellan?"

"Howlett, you couldn't even spell Magellan." Hulk grimly remarked as he was holding and looking at the map.

"Well try giving it to Daredevil." Wolverine suggested, which got him deadpan looks from everyone, including the aforementioned vigilante.

"You're joking right?" Captain America asked, just as Spider-Man (P) decided to take his hands off the wheel and look over at the map.

"Hey it's right here! This way!" Spidey (P) stated.

"Yeah, Spidey's right!" Hulk added.

"Uh Peter......who's currently driving The Quinjet?" Captain America asked.

Soon enough, everyone instantly looked up from the map.

And upon doing so, they found themselves flying right towards a plane.

Everyone started screaming in horror as Spider-Man (P), Captain America and Mr. Fantastic instantly grabbed the wheel and started turning it.

Although it was close, they were luckily able to steer it clear of the plane.

Once they were back on track, everyone was left completely shaken.

"Does this thing come with auto-pilot?" Spider-Man (P) meekly asked.

Over in Tropical Waterways, the characters of the Adventureland realms were riding on The Congo Queen (which was being driven by Frank Wolff) down the Congo River, all while fleeing from a pod of angry hippos.

"Murder water horses, gaining!" Timon called out in a panicking tone as the hippos were indeed gaining on the boat.

"Of all the rivers to go down, why'd it have to be The Congo?!" Moana asked Frank.

"The Congo is the fastest route to the portal out of this realm! The other rivers like The Amazon would've taken us much longer!" Frank explained.

"Well I think we should've taken The Amazon instead. I'd rather deal with caimans, anacondas and piranhas than hippos any day of the week!" Moana remarked.

Back at McDuck Manor, the party had officially started and there were still no signs of the others.

Mickey looked down at his watch and promptly sighed with a saddened look on his face.

But suddenly, a knock on the door was heard, promoting Mickey to get up and answer it.

When he opened the door, Mickey was greeted by a loud.....

"MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!"

Which came from the characters of all the other realms, much to his joy.

"You guys actually made it! We thought you guys weren't coming!" Mickey cheered.

"Of course we were gonna make it! We wouldn't miss this party for the world!" Cinderella stated.

"We brought presents!" Elsa stated as the characters of Fantasyland and Tomorrowland pulled out several gifts.

"We brought food!" Stan Pines stated as the characters of Westernland and Adventureland pulled out various delicacies from their respective realms.

"And Paul even brought a Christmas tree!" Luz stated.

"Yep!" Paul said as he placed the pine down, much to Mickey's surprise.

"Wow! This is incredible! But.....decorating this tree is gonna take a quite awhile." Mickey stated.

"I don't think so, Mickey." Merlin remarked.

After swishing his cane, the pine was suddenly decorated with all kinds of decorations. Bulbs, ornaments, lights, you name it!

Everyone was left in complete awe by the massive Christmas tree standing before them.

Suddenly, Daisy came outside.

"What's everyone standing around for? The party's inside! C'mon on!" Daisy ecstatically told everyone.

A short while later, everyone was now inside McDuck Manor.

They were chatting, eating, drinking, opening presents, making love, playing games, and dancing.

Over at the food table, Mickey and Genie were having some hot cocoa.

"You know Genie. This may be the best Christmas I've ever had so far. And the best part about it is just being able to spend it with the great people of this universe." Mickey said.

"You can say that again, Mick!" Genie replied as the duo decided to clink their glasses together.

Suddenly, a ring from the doorbell was heard.

"I'll get it!" Genie said as he flew over to the door.

"Welcome to the pa-"

But before he could finish, his eyes widen in shock as he was greeted by the sight of all the villains of the universe.

"Why thank you, Genie." Maleficent said in her usual wicked tone.

"You're welcome......" Genie grimly said as his faced turn into a deep scowl, "You guys mind standing out while I get you guys a welcoming present?"

"With pleasure." Maleficent replied.

And so, Genie went back into the manor, shutting the door behind him.

"So what do you guys think the gift's gonna be?" Maleficent asked her fellow companions.

"Well knowing him, it's probably a gonna be massive plate of baklava, or a collection of scimitars, or....."

But before Jafar could finish, all the villains were crushed by a gigantic piece of coal.

"A giant piece of coal....." Jafar weakly muttered.

Bret Iwan as Mickey Mouse

Tony Anselmo as Donald Duck

Tress MacNeille as Daisy Duck

Bill Farmer as Goofy

Enn Reitel as Scrooge McDuck

Greg Eagles as Paul Bunyan

Gary Anthony Williams as John Henry

Jess Harnell as Pecos Bill

Michael Sinterniklaas as Johnny Appleseed

Dee Bradley Baker as Casey Jones

Matthew Mercer as Eugene Fitzherbert

Blayne Weaver as Peter Pan

Peter Cullen as Eeyore

Julie Nathanson as Belle

Jeff Bennett as Roger Radcliffe and Merlin

Kath Soucie as Anita Radcliffe

Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson

Kyla Pratt as Penny Proud

Eric Bauza as Luke Skywalker

Ross Marquand as Han Solo

Chris Sanders as Stitch

Jim Hanks as Woody

Steve Blum as Wolverine

Fred Tatasciore as The Hulk

Josh Keaton as Spider-Man (P)

Roger Craig Smith as Captain America

Nathan Lane as Timon

Auli'i Cravalho as Moana

Andrew Mordago as Frank Wolff

Jennifer Hale as Cinderella

Danielle Bisutti as Elsa

Alex Hirsch as Stan Pines

Sarah-Nicole Robles as Luz Noceda

Jim Meskimen as The Genie

Susanne Blakeslee as Maleficent

Jonathan Freeman as Jafar

[cadejpeg]

I think this is actually what went through demons head not smiles tho lol

also I am single handedly trying to make a ping pong the animation fandom 💔💔

[shes-a-cowboyyy-killer]

Thank for the tag @tattwovonbeardy!

Give me some of your newest favorite songs that you've been listening to on repeat. I don't care how many haha

[withered-rose-unbreakable-lotus]

Random favourite visual kei musical moments 3

The madness that AND were, man. AND was that kind of band that reached a specific high and then haunted its members for the rest of their career to be fair, but well...part of me wishes all 6 of them can still look back at it with a smile. Maybe cause it was my first vkei band I dunno. It still means sth to Ken and Peco for one but I never learnt how the rest see it.

One of my favorite things about them was the synchronicity they had on stage. They were chaotic, but somehow like one whole being...This part right here might be translating well what I mean. Their performance and chemistry on stage were electric to me and I really wish they could have made it longer. I never understood why they took their separate ways, they all seemed to regret it afterwards and so much was said back then, I no longer know what's true or not. What I know though is that somehow, even though they never became that of a big name, pretty much everyone I've spoken to from the western fandom knew who they were, even those that never became their fans. Also most musicians in the scene knew them. I was pwoud. :P

I miss my agents. :/

Song title: Trigger (if you've been searching vkei on YT around 2012 like me, you probably came across this one a lot, along with Diaura's Lost November and a couple more songs)

[dream-meister-translations]

100 SLEEPING PRINCES & THE KINGDOM OF DREAMS

WALK WITH A SMILE - PART 1

━

I find myself drifting in a blissful slumber, swaying gently amidst the tranquil haze.

Within my hazy consciousness, what comes to mind is the scene when Navi reported that the preparations for the festival were complete.

KAIRI : Thank you. You've been a great help.

NAVI : P-Prince Kairi! 

NAVI : Princess Emma and Prince Kairi of the Ruined Country of Calavina, for both of you to host a festival in Calavina together is a significant advancement for the dream world. I'm certain it will be a wonderful celebration! 

Kairi and I discussed, and the festival to be held in Calavina was deemed essential to signify the new beginning of the dream world. After overcoming numerous obstacles, the preparations for the event were finally complete.

(Yes. It is finally time...)

A bright and joyous feeling fills my chest.

(Once the festival begins, this land will be filled with smiles...I wonder if the people of Calavina will also be pleased...)

A fleeting image of someone I thought I saw crosses my mind...

(I need to wake up quickly.)

(To take the first step towards my dream.)

Suddenly, an unfamiliar light flickers before me, starting to shimmer.

(This is...)

(Like the Moon Road, but slightly different?)

As I reach out, the light brushes against my fingertips.

In that moment of feeling the warmth and gentleness of the light, my consciousness is swiftly pulled away.

EMMA : Ah...

As I open my eyes, the morning light streams through the gap in the curtains.

(Was that dream just now...)

NAVI : Princess, are you awake?

Accompanied by a light knock, Navi's buoyant voice reaches my ears.

EMMA : Yes, I'm awake.

NAVI : Good morning! It's a beautiful day today! 

As Navi enters the room, still smiling, he approaches the window and pulls aside the curtains.

Outside, lies a clear blue sky with pure white clouds drifting.

(Truly, such lovely weather...)

NAVI : Finally, the day has arrived, Princess.

As the window opens wide, a refreshing breeze flows into the room.

(Though I can't shake off the thoughts of that dream earlier.)

EMMA : You're right! I must get ready quickly!

With a sudden surge of excitement, I quickly get out of bed.

━

Ruined Country - Calavina

After getting myself ready, I step out of the lodging where I've been staying, feeling a bit nervous.

NAVI : Princess, how are you feeling?

EMMA : Uh...I'm starting to get nervous...

Placing a hand on my chest, I exhale softly.

I am to celebrate the opening of the festival and deliver greetings as a Princess. 

(It's not just mine and Kairi's, but the hopes of many others that are poured into this festival...)

(I must do a good job.)

Trying to calm my racing heart due to nervousness, suddenly...

??? : Hey, Emma! Good morning!

Turning around, I see Prince Peco of Orangette, waving his small hand as he runs toward me.

EMMA : Good morning. Are you headed out already, Peco?

PECO : Yup! Peco woke up early and everything! Because today's a really important festival!

SAIGA : Haha, that's a good attitude to have.

Walking leisurely behind Peco is Prince Saiga of Irogu, the country of the great fox spirit.

EMMA : Good morning, Saiga.

SAIGA : Good morning, Emma.

PECO : Oh, Saiga also woke up early? Just like Peco!

SAIGA : Yes. It seems we're not the only ones.

Following Saiga's gaze, I notice other princes who are dressed for the festival approaching us.

EMMA : There's still quite a bit of time until the opening...

SAIGA : Everyone must be excited for the festival. And they know how important this day is to you, Emma. 

Soothed by Saiga's calm voice, a gentle smile forms on my lips.

(So many things have happened...)

(Once it was deemed impossible to hold a festival in this country, rejected by the spirits of Calavina's royal family, I even lost the ability to smile.)

(But with the help of many people, by showing our determination, we eventually gained acceptance from the spirits and I regained my smile.)

EMMA : It's thanks to all of you that we've managed to reach this day.

SAIGA : We're all here today because of you.

With a satisfied smile, Saiga lowers his gaze.

WILL : Hey hey, good morning Emma~! It's such a nice day, isn't it? This is a scene you'd never see in one of my movies.

Drawn by a new voice, I turn my gaze and see Prince Will of Kenal, the movie country, and also a director of horror films, standing there.

EMMA : Good morning, Will. Oh, Lecien and Sky are here too.

LECIEN : Ah...Good morning.

Showing a puzzled expression, Prince Lecian of Arbitro, the country of judgment, walks up to us.

SKY : Yo morning, Emma. 

Sky, the former prince of Daten, the country of magical science, stands beside him. Wearing a carefree smile as usual.

EMMA : Those two make quite the unusual combination, huh?

WILL : They were lurking in the shadows over there this whole time. Observing you while you spoke. I was hoping they were planning to scare you~

SKY : Wha!? It's not like that at all. This guy just seemed nervous to approach.

Saying that, he directed his gaze toward Lecien. 

LECIEN : I was planning to approach you after your conversation ended.

WILL : If you live life that way, you'll never get a chance to talk to her. After all, she's the star of today! 

PECO : That's right! We should all hang out and talk to each other!

Peco took my hands and pulled me into the center of the princes, before giving Lecian a look.

LECIEN : Do...You know me?

PECO : Yeah, you're Haru's friend! He called you "Rustle!" 

LECIEN : His...Friend...?

Perhaps reminded of Haldine, the prince of the Country of Black Tea, Ticha, Lecien's expression softened if only slightly.

(Everyone seems happier than during the preparations.)

(Are they looking forward to the festival?)

Seeing everyone engaged in lively conversation fills me with joy, and I glance to Navi who is beside me. 

NAVI : Today seems like it's gonna be a lot of fun, huh?

EMMA : I was thinking the exact same thing.

Laughter spills forth from us both, as I gaze up at the clear sky, taking in a deep breath... 

The beginning of a new day.

[extremeconsumption]

Ping Pong: The Animation, episode 4

Sports anime is my "I've done everything I need to do for the evening, it's time to wind down" consumption lately. I find them relaxing and the plot is usually not as involved as more action oriented anime.

Ping Pong, a story about the cocky and rambunctious Peco and his more mild mannered friend, Smile, hits the right spot for me.

[a-writer-on-the-internet]

I randomly got the urge to rewrite a song in another artist’s form.

To be specific, this is The Ballad of Bill Thaxton by Marty Robbins rewritten in C.W. McCall’s form of his writing. Both of these styles mixed along with my form of storytelling. Let me know what you think

The saloon was quiet, just the creak of the ceiling fan and the dull clink of a bottle settling on wood.

An old man sat hunched at the end of the bar, beard like a snowdrift, eyes a little too sharp for someone that tired.

“You ever heard about Old Bill Thaxton?” He asked suddenly to the man sitting beside him, voice slow as molasses and twice as sticky.

“No?” The man replied.

The Old Man took a sip, before saying “Well then… lemme tell you somethin’.”

“Old Bill Thaxton was a ranger once. Not just any badge-wearin’ man, either. Folks said he pinned on that star quicker than anyone west of the Pecos, and his record? Impeccable. The kind that left outlaws second-guessing their next move.

In his day, Bill was the best of the bold. Criminals whispered his name with dread, and townsfolk slept a little easier knowing he was out there somewhere, doing the Lord’s work with a Colt on his hip.

But time don’t care much for legends. And neither does a man’s back once he gets past fifty.

Bill slowed down. Age caught up. The chase was over, and with it went the stories, the fame, the fear. He hung up his badge and settled down in a quiet little town, where folks left him alone, and he didn’t mind.

Peace reigned for a while. Until the day a stranger came ridin’ in.

He wasn’t like the others. His clothes were clean, fancy even. Dark shirt, darker vest, boots that caught the sun just right. His gun hung low and loose on his thigh, tied with intention. He reined in near the well as a crowd gathered, curious.

The stranger raised his voice. “If you speak to me,” he said, “call me Sundown.”

He wasn’t shy. When one local asked how he got that name and if he was one of the best, Sundown grinned like the devil himself had whispered in his ear. His eyes narrowed. His teeth glistened.

“I never draw,” he said, “’til the sun’s goin’ down and my back is facing west.”

Then he announced why he’d come. He wasn’t here to rob, or cause trouble—at least not in the usual way. He’d come to meet Old Bill Thaxton. Said he wanted to “add to his fame.”

“Go give Bill a message,” he told the crowd. “Tell him a killer’s in town. We’ll meet at the end of the street… just as the sun’s goin’ down.”

Murmurs passed like wildfire through the onlookers. Someone mentioned it had been years since Bill even held a gun. But Sundown just laughed.

“Won’t be my hide,” he said. “Killin’ Old Bill’ll be fun.”

So they told Bill. And Bill, being Bill, didn’t flinch.

“Tell him I’m on my way,” he said, calm as ever. “I’ve never run, and I’ll meet this young man at any time of day.”

That evening, as the sun hung low like fire in the sky, Bill showed up. He slid down from the saddle slow, the way a man does when he knows it might be the last time. The light hit square in his eyes, and still he walked forward.

Sundown stood waiting.

Their shadows stretched long across the dirt, swaying like dancers before the final step.

No one expected Bill to speak, but he did. Quietly, like greeting an old friend.

They walked the same pace. Same stride. Thirty feet between them.

Then, they drew.

Bill’s Colt leapt from its holster like lightning. His .44 barked six times, sharp and fast. The sun didn’t bother him.

Because Old Bill was blind.

When the smoke cleared, Sundown lay face-down in the dust.

Bill stood motionless, lowering his gun with a soft sigh. He didn’t gloat, didn’t smile. Just stood there a moment, then turned and walked away.

Some said he didn’t even know Sundown was dead. Others said he knew the second he pulled the trigger.

Either way, the message was clear.

Bill returned to his quiet life. Peace resumed. Time moved on.

He’s been gone a long while now. The legend faded. Most folks forgot.

But the old-timers?

They remember.

They say Old Bill proved it one last time,

that even without his eyes,

he never lost his aim.”

The Old Man in the saloon paused, bottle raised.

“And that, my dear boy… that’s how Old Bill Thaxton proved he was still had it.”

He sunk into the stool, his shoulders relaxed.

“Course,” he added, “some say he was blind as a bar. Others say he saw it comin’ all along.”

He grinned, wide and weathered.

“Ain’t much of a difference when your aim don’t miss. All I know is, that day… even without his eyes, Old Bill proved he was still the best.”

Here’s the original song: https://youtu.be/az7fGqYIiL0?si=iQxFKz5P57BcaQDI

And here’s one of C.W. McCall’s songs:

[everydayanimanga]

Ping Pong the Animation – Anime Recommendation!

Looking for an anime that hits different? Ping Pong the Animation tells the story of two friends, Peco and Smile, as they navigate competition, friendship, and what it means to find your own reason to play. With unique art, deep characters, and just 11 episodes, it’s a hidden gem for any anime fan!

✨ Status: Completed 🎬 Episodes: 11 📺 Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation

Love Ping Pong? Try: The Tatami Galaxy, Run with the Wind, Haikyuu!!, March Comes In Like a Lion

Want more anime recs? 👉 Get 20 Free Anime Recommendations

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All my anime resources & templates: 🌐 Central Notion Page – All Links & Products

[etheweirdo]

Ping Pong the Animation Thoughts

Holy shit, what an amazing show.

I knew about this show for a long time, but finally got around to actually watching it recently. I always remember it cause a lot of smash bros melee players related heavily to it. I used to play competitive smash bros and rivals of aether, and it really does nail that feeling. It asks what you always need to know the answer for which is "Who do you play Ping Pong for?"

I think it nails the highs, lows, and utter frustrations that we often face when we get into a hobby like this. You always want to get better, but often you hit that plateau. I never took the games serious enough to actually improve marginally (I was at best an honorable mention on any PR my state had), but I do know someone who ended up going through an arc similar to Kong. He hit a wall and none of us could push him how much he needed, it wasn't until he moved that he really saw the improvement he needed.

I also love Smile and Peco's dynamic. You get a good sense of them early on, but man it hits hard as the layers peel back and you understand how Smile depended on Peco. But Peco got complacent. Seeing what it means to smile but never being able to recapture the joy he felt for Ping Pong until the final match with Peco is beautiful.

Also fuck man the artsyle is to die for. It's so gritty and gross, but perfectly works with the feeling of the show. I love how loose it becomes with some of the matches. And how it ended up brightening as "the hero returned" was amazing.

I genuinely think this is one of the best shows I've ever seen, might be top 10 for me? Hard to say cause of recency bias. I think everyone needs to see it.