#punisher season 2 predictions

[brutermonger]

If he gets the holsters And the motorcycle next season.. ohmygawd *bites fist*🤤

[santacoppelia]

Putting the Meta in "Metatron"

(couldn't resist the pun, sorry)

Ok, this has been tickling my brain for a while. I've been thinking about how The Metatron designed his role and discourse specifically to manipulate Aziraphale into the end result we saw in the last minutes of S2. I become obsessed with it because… well, I'm a bit obsessive, but also because there were many really smart writing decisions that I loved (even when I despise The Metatron exactly for the same reasons. Hate the character, love the writer). If you haven't watched Good Omens Season 2, this is the moment to stop reading. Come back later!

We already know that in Book Omens, the role of Gabriel in the ending was occupied by The Metatron. Of course, the series introduced us to Gabriel and we won a lot by that, but I feel that the origins of The Metatron should be considered for any of this. He is not a "sweet old man": he was the one in charge of seeing over the operation of Armageddon; not just a stickler of rules, but the main promoter for it.

However, when he appears in the series finale, we first are primed to almost pass him by. He is in the line for buying coffee, using clothes that are:

obviously not tailored (almost ill fitted)

in dark tones

looking worn and wrinkled

This seems so important to me! All the angels we have seen are so proud of their aspect, wear clear (white or off white) clothes, pressed, impeccable (even Muriel), even when they visit the Earth (which we have already seen on S1 with all the visits to the bookshop). The Metatron chose a worn, comfortable attire, instead. This is a humanized look, something that fools all the angels but which would warm up someone very specific, can you guess?

After making quite a complicated coffee order (with sort of an affable and nervous energy), he makes a question that Crowley had already primed for us when asking Nina about the name of the coffee: having a "predictable" alternative and an unpredictable one.

This creates an interesting parallel with the next scene: Michael is discussing the possibility of erasing Aziraphale from The Book of Life (a punishment even worse than Holy Water on demons, because not having existed at all, EVER is definitely worse than having existed and ceased to exist at some point) when The Metatron arrives, interrupts the moment and signals having brought coffee. Yup, an amicable gesture, but also a "not death" offering that he shows clearly to everyone (even when Michael or Uriel do not understand or care for it. It wasn't meant for them). He even dismisses what Michael was saying as "utter balderdash" and a "complete piffle", which are the kind of outdated terms we have heard Aziraphale use commonly. So, The Metatron has put up this show for a specific audience of one.

The next moment on the script has Metatron asking Crowley for the clarification of his identity. Up to this moment, every angel has been ignoring the sprawled demon in the corner while discussing how to punish Aziraphale… But The Metatron defers to the most unlikely person in the room, and the only one who will push any buttons on Aziraphale: Crowley. After that, Aziraphale can recognize him, and Metatron dismisses the "bad angels" (using Aziraphale's S1 epithet) with another "catchy old phrase", "spit spot", while keeping Muriel at the back and implying that there is a possibility to "check after" if those "bad angels" have done anything wrong.

Up to this moment, he has played it perfectly. The only moment when he loses it is when he calls Muriel "the dim one", which she ignores… probably because that's the usual way they get talked to in Heaven. I'm not sure if Aziraphale or Crowley cared for that small interaction, but it is there for us (the audience) to notice it: the sympathy the character might elicit is built and sought, but he is not that nice.

After that, comes "the chinwag" and the offer of the coffee: the unnecessarily complicated order. It is not Aziraphale's cup of tea (literally), but it is so specific that it creates some semblance of being thought with care, and has a "hefty jigger" of syrup (again with the funny old words). And, as Aziraphale recognizes, it is "very nice!" (as The Metatron "jolly hoped so"), and The Metatron approves of him drinking it by admitting he has "ingested things in my time, you know?". This interaction is absolutely designed to build a bridge of understanding. The Metatron probably knew that the first response he would get was a "no", so he tailored his connection specifically to "mirror" Aziraphale: love of tasty human treats he has also consumed, funny old words like the ones he loves, a very human, worn, well-loved look. That was the bait for "the stroll": the moment when Aziraphale and Crowley get separated, because The Metatron knew that being close to Crowley, Aziraphale would have an hypervigilant soundboard to check the sense of what he was going to get offered. That's what the nasty look The Metatron gives to Crowley while leaving the bookshop builds (and it gets pinpointed by the music, if you were about to miss it).

The next thing we listen from The Metatron is "You don't have to answer immediately, take all the time you need" in such a friendly manner… we can see Aziraphale doubting a little, and then comes the suggestion: "go and tell your friend the good news!". This sounds like encouragement, but is "the reel". He already knows how Crowley would react, and is expecting it (we can infer it by his final reaction after going back for Aziraphale after the break up, but let's not get ahead of ourselves shall we?). He even can work up Muriel to take care of the bookshop while waiting for the catch.

What did he planted in Aziraphale's mind? Well, let's listen to the story he has to tell:

"I don't think he's as bad a fellow… I might have misjudged him!" — not strange in Aziraphale to have such a generous spirit while judging people. He's in a… partnership? relationship? somethingship? with a demon! So maybe first impressions aren't that reliable anyway. The Metatron made an excellent job with this, too.

"Michael was not the obvious candidate, it was me!" — This idea is interesting. Michael has been the stickler, the rule follower, even the snitch. They have been rewarded and recognized by that. Putting Aziraphale before Michael in the line of succession is a way of recognizing not only him, but his system of values, which has always been at odds with the main archangels (even when it was never an open fight).

"Leader, honest, don't tell people what they want to hear" — All these are generic compliments. The Metatron hasn't been that aware of Aziraphale, but are in line with what would have been said of any "rebel leader". They come into context with the next phrase.

"That's why Gabriel came to you, I imagine…" — I'm pretty sure The Metatron didn't imagine this, ha. He is probably imagining that the "institutional problem" is coalescing behind his back, and trying to keep friends close, but enemies closer… while dividing and conquering. If Gabriel rebelled, and then went searching for Aziraphale (and Crowley, they are and item and he knows it), that might mean a true risk for his status quo and future plans.

Heaven has great plans and important projects for you — this is to sweeten the pot: the hefty jigger of almond syrup. You will be able to make changes! You can make a difference from the inside! Working for an old man who feels strangely familiar! And who recognizes your point of view! That sounds like the best job offer of the world, really.

Those, however, are not the main messages (they are still building good will with Aziraphale); they are thought out to build the last, and more important one:

Heaven is well aware of your "de facto partnership" with Crowley…

It would be considered irregular if you wanted to work with him again…

You, and you alone, can bring him to Heaven and restore his full angelic status, so you could keep working together (in very important projects).

Here is the catch. He brought the coffee so he could "offer him coffee", but the implications are quite clear: if you want to continue having a partnership with Crowley, you two must come to Heaven. Anything else would be considered irregular, put them in a worst risk, and maybe, just maybe, make them "institutional enemies". Heaven is more efficient chasing enemies, and they have The Book of Life as a menace.

We already know how scared Aziraphale has always been about upsetting Heaven, but he has learned to "disconnect" from it through the usual "they don't notice". The Metatron came to tell him "I did notice, and it has come back to bite you". The implied counterpart to the offer is "you can always get death". Or even worse, nonexistence (we have already imagined the angst of having one of them condemned to that fate, haven't we?)

When The Metatron arrives, just after seeing Crowley leave the bookshop, distraught, he casually asks "How did he take it?", but he already knows. That was his plan all along: making them break up with an offer Aziraphale could not refuse, but Crowley could not accept. That's why he even takes the license to slightly badmouth Crowley: "Always did want to go his own way, always asking damn fool questions, too". He also arrive with the solution to the only objection Aziraphale would have: Muriel, the happy innocent angel that he received with so much warmth and kindness, is given the opportunity to stay on Earth, taking care of the bookshop. The only thing he would have liked to take with him is not a thing, and has become impossible.

If God is playing poker in a dark room and always smiling, The Metatron is playing chess, and he is quite good at it (that's why he loves everything to be predictable). He is menacing our pieces, and broke our hearts in the process… But I'm pretty sure he is underestimating his opponents. His awful remark of Muriel being "dim"; saying that Crowley "asks damn fool questions", and even believing that Aziraphale is just a softie that can be played like a pipe… That's why telling him the project is "The Second Coming" was an absolute gift for us as an audience, and it prefigures the downfall that is coming — the one Aziraphale, now with nothing to lose, started cooking in his head during that elevator ride (those couple of minutes that Michael Sheen gifted to all of us: the shock, the pain, the fury, and that grin in the end, with the eyes in a completely different emotion). Remember that Aziraphale is intelligent, but also fierce. Guildernstern commited a similar mistake in Hamlet, and it didn't go well:

"Why, look you now, how unworthy a thing you make of me! You would play upon me, you would seem to know my stops, you would pluck out the heart of my mystery, you would sound me from my lowest note to the top of my compass, and there is much music, excellent voice, in this little organ, yet cannot you make it speak. 'Sblood, do you think I am easier to be played on than a pipe? Call me what instrument you will, though you can fret me, you cannot play upon me."

I'm so excited to learn how this is going to unfold!! Because our heroes have always been very enthusiastic at creating plans together, failed miserably at executing them, and even then succeeding… But now they are apart, more frustrated and the stakes are even higher. Excellent scenario for a third act!

*exits, pursued by a bear*

[yanderes-galore]

Can I ask for a Yandere Alphabet for Homelander from The Boys please?

Sure! Sorry for the long wait, I am pulling from my concept I did of him! This is Season 1/Early Half of Season 2 Homelander. Hope you enjoy!

Yandere! Homelander Concept

Yandere Alphabet - Homelander

Pairing: Romantic

Possible Trigger Warnings: Gender-Neutral Darling, Obsession, Manipulation, Possessive behavior, Jealousy, Violence, Mass Murder/Murder, Blood/Gore mention, Kidnapping, Isolation, Threats, Controlling behavior, Stalking, Forced relationship.

Affection: How do they show their love and affection? How intense would it get?

Homelander is one of the most intense yanderes. Not just in The Boys, but in a lot of the fandoms I write for. He hasn't experienced normal affection... leading to twisted and selfish desires.

He's controlling, intimidating, even his own darling can't predict him. You have no idea what he'll do if you manage to do something he deems wrong. Maybe he won't hurt you... but everyone else could just be fodder.

Homelander's affection is needy and possessive, once he has you in his arms he never lets you go.

Blood: How messy are they willing to get when it comes to their darling?

Based on what I've see in the entirety of the show... messy. Messy may even be an understatement. He'd coat walls and buildings in a red paste for you.

Cruelty: How would they treat their darling once abducted? Would they mock them?

Homelander is most likely mocking at times. He'd keep you in an isolated house, most likely provided by Vought (similar to Becca). Even when he tries to be "caring" he comes off as terrifying due to the inability to read his next move.

Every need is provided and no one will be able to find you. Homelander may show you to the public eventually, but most of your time is in isolation. He does hate sharing.

Darling: Aside from abduction, would they do anything against their darling’s will?

Most likely, he's Homelander... there isn't much you can do to deter him from you once he likes you for whatever reason.

Exposed: How much of their heart do they bare to their darling? How vulnerable are they when it comes to their darling?

It's hard to tell at times, but in private Homelander does show some vulnerabilities. Such as when he forces himself onto your lap so you can stroke his hair or let him hold you. It's in these moments that you feel he's less intimidating.

But there's always a lingering threat when it comes to him... even if he does care about you.

Fight: How would they feel if their darling fought back?

Irritated but not worried. He can easily intimidate you back into your place... but part of him hopes you'll just give in at some point.

Game: Is this a game to them? How much would they enjoy watching their darling try to escape?

No and he doesn't like it that much.

Hell: What would be their darling’s worst experience with them?

Ideals: What kind of future do they have in mind for/with their darling?

This is another yandere where I say... "Where do I start?"

Is it all the mass murder? Is it the kidnapping? Is it the punishments? Is it the "relationship" in general? There's no one bad experience with him.

All of what makes him himself is the worst experience.

No doubt to either make you a toy or a spouse. Even then that's just a guess. It's really hard to tell what Homelander wants.

Jealousy: Do they get jealous? Do they lash out or find a way to cope?

Kisses: How do they act around or with their darling?

YES. Homelander gets jealous and half the time doesn't bother trying to silently cope. He'll take his anger out on others... and it most likely will be on whoever tried to "take you" from him.

It won't be pretty either.

Love letters: How would they go about courting or approaching their darling?

Manipulative, Possessive, Controlling, Sadistic, Clingy, Obsessive, Isolating, Childish, Ruthless.

Mask: Are their true colors drastically different from the way they act around everyone else?

I imagine Homelander is mostly in denial about his obsession at first. But sooner or later he's stalking you and can't keep his eyes off you. He'd keep his distance for a while... maybe offer small chatter...

Before taking what he feels he deserves suddenly.

Not really, no.

Naughty: How would they punish their darling?

Oppression: How many rights would they take away from their darling?

Threats, Isolation, perhaps something physical if you really manage to irritate him.

Best you stay on his good side, dear.

Most likely all of them if he has you in his grasp.

Patience: How patient are they with their darling?

Patient... to a degree.

Quit: If their darling dies, leaves, or successfully escapes, would they ever be able to move on?

Regret: Would they ever feel guilty about abducting their darling? Would they ever let their darling go?

Maybe... but it would take a long time and damage his mind even more than it already is.

No and maybe... if he keeps an eye on you.

Stigma: What brought about this side of them (childhood, curiosity, etc)?

Curiosity and upbringing are good theories.

Tears: How do they feel about seeing their darling scream, cry, and/or isolate themselves?

Unique: Would they do anything different from the classic yandere?

He most likely leaves you alone if trying to comfort you doesn't work. He isn't the most comforting person... the silence may just be what you need.

Anything's better than him.

SKIPPED

Vice: What weakness can their darling exploit in order to escape?

The thing is... I feel there is no escaping from him. He'd find you anywhere.

Wit’s end: Would they ever hurt their darling?

Sadly, yes.

Xoanon: How much would they revere or worship their darling? To what length would they go to win their darling over?

He doesn't really worship you unless he's in a vulnerable moment. He would go to extreme lengths to keep you in his clutches.

Yearn: How long do they pine after their darling before they snap?

Not very long... a few months?

Zenith: Would they ever break their darling?

Yes he would.

[avelera]

Thinking about blasphemy and Good Omens right now and I can't help but notice an interesting phenomenon around some discussions I've seen about the Second Coming and Jesus Christ being a character in S3.

Namely, I see much more underlying discomfort around the possibility of the show poking fun at the figure of Jesus Christ than I do with any other prediction discussion or discussion around religion in the show.

On the one hand, I completely understand how poking fun at the Antichrist dogma from Revelations doesn't feel particularly blasphemous, where poking fun at Jesus does. The Antichrist is a stock character of horror at this point. Many more disrespectful teams than Gaiman and Pratchett have played with that story. It's barely even considered poking fun at Christianity to have Adam, the son of Satan, be a good kid in Good Omens. But Jesus is a very important figure to Christians all over the world. There are devout Christians who truly love Jesus and no one wants to be a jerk by just outright disrespecting a figure that is dear to so many.

But on the other hand, expecting Good Omens to not make fun of Jesus is a bit absurd to me. Literally saying, "I don't think the satirical religion show is going to satirize religion because it might upset people." Gaiman hasn't shied away from messing with religion or religious bigots before. He gleefully shrugged off attacks over God being a woman, or Adam and Eve being portrayed by people of color.

The Book of Job is lampooned in Season 2. I know it doesn't feel like it to many people here, but the reinterpretation of the Book of Job in S2 definitely registers as blasphemy on some religious scales. It is satirizing a religious text after all.

Saying that angels and demons fall in love and worse, have that love be portrayed by actors of the same sex could be seen as blasphemy at the very least on the level of saying God is a woman. And by the way, it's not like these religious texts say "God is whatever you want the entity to be" or "God is a woman if that makes you happy". Hell no, the Bible is extremely damn clear on God being male. The official position of the Catholic Church is that God is male. Official Catholic dogma is incredibly anti-female in terms of inherent holiness, women cannot become priests, even nuns are dependent on a priest to deliver the Sacraments, it's a huge deal and they are not planning to change any time soon and it is totally unambiguous.

Making God explicitly female might not seem like a big deal since films like Dogma, another religious satire, did it in the 90s but to True Believes in the official doctrine, that is a form of blasphemy.

Good Omens is by definition a blasphemous work. How offensively blasphemous it is really depends on the devoutness of the viewer. And I find it interesting the extent to which there's something of a knee jerk, "Oh they won't do that!" in terms of further satirizing religion in the show about religious satire. As if Jesus hasn't been satirized in other mainstream movies before like the aforementioned Dogma or Life of Brian.

And here's the thing, my personal opinion is? Blasphemy is good! Blasphemy laws on the books mean it's ok to punish, hurt, or even kill a person for making fun of religion or just doing the religion wrong. Human progress has been frozen in place by blasphemy laws, sciences have progressed when blasphemy laws ease or often while deliberately concealing their efforts from authorities in places where blasphemy laws or laws that were otherwise based on the dominant religion exist.

If anything, I am actually a bit uncomfortable with the idea that Good Omens should hold back on lampooning a figure like Jesus Christ. If devout Christians will make laws that determine what other humans can do with their bodies based on their religion, then their religion should absolutely be open to outright mockery without punishment or ramification to anyone. Of course on an individual level I wouldn't wish to be offensive to someone sincerely religious but at the same time, I am also violently anti-censorship of any kind. And blasphemy and religious mockery are often right at the heart of censorship debates.

The world is a better place when we can openly mock religion.

I'm not going to caveat that as an opinion. Being able to openly and without fear discuss, criticize, and mock religion is an incredibly important part of any free society. The battles over this right have been vicious and bloody and are actively ongoing around the world. Just as an example, anti-blasphemy laws were on the books in Ireland until 2020, there was a huge campaign to have them removed because other countries were pointing to them as an example of why they should keep and exercise such laws.

My point is that I suppose this is something of hyperbole or alarmist or overly strident. I can understand people wanting to be decent about not openly mocking a figure of such importance to so many like Jesus. But quite honestly? I hope Good Omens does whatever it pleases with mocking Jesus. I hope they don't hold back. I hope people remember that being able to mock religion is really important, especially when representatives of that religion are actively trying to clamp down on the rights of others.

And honestly, if religious people are offended they should just not watch or they should develop a thicker skin if they expose themselves to such discourse. Religion and Christianity in particular is an active part of the public sphere. It is worthy of discussion. Public discourse often includes mockery, especially of the powerful and of powerful forces that steer the course of nations, like Christianity.

And I think it's important for Good Omens fans, who are a very progressive group, not to cherry pick and moralize over what satire or blasphemy is permitted. All satire should be permitted. All blasphemy should be permitted. The religious bigots don't care if you think God being a woman is ok but making fun of Jesus isn't. It's all the same, anything but glowing praise is criticism to some of these forces. Open discussion is far more important and yes, that includes mockery, and silly discussions in a silly show about an angel and a demon who avert the Apocalypse and fall in love.

[maxfieldparrishes]

random predictions for s2 that i have floating around in my head that have pretty much no basis other than huh:

1. routley is genuinely pious, or religious at the very least. don't know why i think this other than that we haven't seen a genuinely religious (christian) character yet, and considering this is the very end of cromwellian england...

2. skeffington is the worst of the four. hands down. total sadist. basing this one off the fact that skeffington has also been spelled skevington, as in the torture device skevington's gyres invented during the reign of henry viii.

like... fowler's already awful but imagine these two. one religious nut who believes that whatever horror he unleashes is justified by either saving his victim or bringing them to their appropriate punishment, and one just... absolute psycho. worse than fowler, which seems pretty impossible but i'm afraid of what they'll show us 😬 mizu is gonna have a fucking TIME

i dunno, just my predictions! lemme know what you think might go down in season 2 ✌️

[thavron]

I have thoughts about Good Omens that are driving me crazy. (Spoilers ahoy for season 2)

Like

Was Crowley set up for the fall? God made him with a curious nature and questioning mind, how can she then punish him for asking questions? It is part of his design. Was that her plan for him all along? The question of whether Adam and Eve were set up for the fall is a fairly big question in Philosophy, which Crowley references in season 1. I do wonder if his fall was just as planned as humanities.

Was he punished perhaps not for the questions, but because he found the answer? There are several instances where he meets angels and demons from his past and he has no idea who they are. Did he learn Gods ineffable plan, and have his mind wiped?

Or worse, does God need him as part of Her plan, as a Wild Card on Earth that will gladly work against both heaven and hell? If his fall was by design, then he has a purpose on Earth.

Is God dead? We had no narration in season 2, no voice of God essentially. We established that the angels plans were seperate to Gods ineffible plan, and that they can fall to tempation. Is Metatron moving against God, or filling a power vacuum left by God?

If Crowleys fall was planned, then was Aziraphales? Angels seem to have free will in GO (not so much in scripture though which is interesting. Maybe they dont at all in GO, just an illusion of it, which would then support the notion that Crowley and Aziraphale are supposed to work together). Together he and Crowley are more powerful then any arch angel, is that by design? Was whole point that angels and demons if they learned to work together would become more powerful than either faction? Or is it just because of how utterly in love and in sync with each other they are? Was he created to help guide Crowley, or vice versa or both. I kind of like the idea that God made them for each other.

Is this the reason Metatron wants Aziraphale? He is threatened by them as a pair, and wants to seperate them?

This is the probelm with an all powerful God and free will. How much of events are by design, and what is screwed up because angels are acting against their orders/natures? As Metatron said, people are predictable, and then he went on to play Aziraphale like a fiddle. Is that what God does too? She knows how each of her angels will behave and puts them on the path they need to be on?

I have some confusion. Sorry for the ramble. I studied Philosophy and Theology in college, and though that was a long time ago, this show has triggered something in my brain.

[howtonerdoutovereverything]

Fairly Oddparents: A New Wish Season 2 Predictions

OK, OK, OK, I know this topic has probably been discussed to death, but considering I'm new around these parts, and also considering I've been thinking about this for literal weeks, I figured I’d just spill all my thoughts out. If I forget anything or if I think of new stuff, I’ll just reblog this post and add it.

Anyways, let’s start by looking directly at the end of the Season 1 Finale.

Hazel’s friends (and brother) now know about the existence of fairies

So this is probably the biggest thing to come out of the finale. With her one rule-free wish, Hazel wishes that her friends (and brother) can keep their memories of the craziness that just transpired, meaning they now know about the existence of fairies and the fact that she has fairy godparents. This has the potential to open up a lot of interesting dynamics.

Seeing Hazel and Dev interact after they found out about each others’ fairy godparents in Battle of the Dimmsonian was so fun, as it’s not a dynamic we’ve seen a lot of throughout this franchise (at least to my understanding; I haven’t watched the OG show in a LOOOONG time). So now that the group of people “in the know” has expanded, and considering they all have a much different relationship with Hazel than Dev, a ton of wacky shenanigans could ensue. For example, Hazel and Antony now both have to keep Cosmo and Wanda’s (and I guess also Peri’s) existence a secret from their parents, which I can definitely imagine being used for gags. Also, I’m sure Jasmine, Winn, and Antony are going to want the fairies to grant wishes for them, meaning they’ll have to ask Hazel to make those wishes. I can totally see an episode where Hazel is constantly making wishes and gets super exhausted/frustrated. But in general, I think that the fact that Hazel doesn’t have to keep her fairies a secret anymore means that her friends can be involved in more episodes, or at least be involved in a more significant way. Jasmine and Winn, while being great characters, definitely deserve more development. Perhaps we could meet their families. And with Antony, perhaps we could meet his girlfriend?

But if we’re going to talk about friends, there’s one person in particular we have to bring up…

Dev Dimmadome (and all of his shit)

So…here’s the thing. Dev 100% remembers everything that went down in the finale. I know this is a fairly common theory and people have been discussing it, but just in case you’re out of the loop, here’s why I think this is the case.

When Hazel makes her rule-free wish to Jorgen, she specifies that she wants her “friends” to remember the events of the finale. And while, in the moment, she’s definitely thinking about Jasmine, Winn, and Antony, it’s made clear throughout the past few episodes (specifically in Best of Luck, if I remember correctly) that she still considers Dev a friend despite all the disagreements they’ve had. She even spells out in Lost and Founder’s Day that friends can have arguments and still be friends, so unless that belief of hers has radically changed (which I doubt), it would make sense if Dev ended up getting lumped into the wish purely because she still views him as a friend. As others have pointed out, this could explain why Jorgen freaked out so heavily when Hazel made her wish. Why would he react like that if there wasn’t going to be some big consequence?

And speaking of big consequences, I think Dev remembering his attempt to take over Fairy World and the loss of Peri as his godparent is going to have a big impact on him and affect the direction in which his character arc goes. At the end of the finale right before Hazel makes her wish, Dev straight up says that he thinks he deserves his punishment, and seems extremely dejected. The weight of his actions is clearly affecting him, and when you add on his realization that the fairy godparent he treated so horribly still cared about him even when he was on the verge of death BECAUSE OF THAT MISTREATMENT, I feel like Dev is going to be starting off the season in a pretty bad place.

I feel like for the first episode or so, Dev is going to be wallowing in his regret and just generally feeling like trash, but not knowing how to deal with it. He knows what he did is wrong, and seems convinced that Hazel isn’t going to forgive him or that it isn’t worth pursuing a friendship with her any further. Hazel will probably notice this and attempt to talk to him, as she’s not used to seeing him like this (and also is probably assuming that his memory being wiped would mean that he’d be “back to normal”, because remember, she doesn’t know he remembers). Dev will keep avoiding her, some shenanigans will happen that force them to come together, and Hazel will push Dev into admitting what’s wrong. He’ll finally spill that he remembers what he did and feels horrible about it and there will be some sort of reconciliation (I imagine Hazel saying that she doesn’t fully forgive him, but doesn’t want to see him be miserable because, at the end of the day, she’s still his friend and wants him to be better). This will set the two of them off on a good note for the rest of the season.

But that doesn’t mean that everything will be fine and dandy with Dev…

Peri’s role

So given the fact that Peri has swiftly become the fan-favorite character of this series, I have a feeling that, if Season 2 is greenlit, the team behind the show will want to give him a more prominent role than he had in Season 1. I remember being a bit disappointed that we didn’t get as much of him in the show as I was expecting, but then again, I doubt the team could’ve anticipated just how popular Peri became.

With that being said, let’s consider where Peri is right now. He’s just lost his first-ever godkid, whom he cared about despite the fact that he wasn’t very appreciative of him. Given that Peri was very clearly trying to prove something through his godparenting of Dev (mostly that he could “make it on his own”), losing him is going to absolutely DEVASTATE HIM. I can picture him crashing in his parents’ apartment, crying on the couch while eating ice cream and having absolutely no self-confidence. But I can also see him attempting to secretly help out Dev even though he’s not his godparent anymore. I’ve seen plenty of artwork of Peri disguised as a babysitter that Dale hires, and I think that would be a great way to get more Peri and Dev interactions as well as provide a fun twist on Timmy and Vicky’s dynamic from the OG show. Dev will likely be a bit conflicted by Peri’s attempts to help him out, and I can see an episode of them sort of reconciling. Given that there was originally going to be an episode centered around them in Season 1 that got scrapped, this could be a good way to reuse that old idea. Plus, if I’m honest, I just want to see Peri’s human design.

Plus, having Peri essentially go undercover at Dev’s place will give us an opportunity to check in on a certain character…

Dale and Project H (and the Pixies…?)

Ah, yes, everyone’s favorite bastard and terrible father, Dale Dimmadome. The last time we saw him (besides the finale), he was obsessing over Project H, AKA his attempt to figure out why Hazel didn’t buy anything on Founder’s Day. We saw Cosmo and Wanda essentially (and inadvertently) feed Dale the answer he was looking for: Hazel has fairies and therefore doesn’t need to buy things. When Dale inevitably discovers this, we know there’s gonna be a plan that involves fairies somehow. But what?

Personally, I think the most likely answer is that Dale is going to want to utilize fairy magic in some way so he can essentially play genie and bring himself more fame and esteem. Or perhaps he’ll create some uber-expensive device that allows people to wish for things, but the catch is that people have to pay in order to make wishes. Given how powerful fairy magic can be, I can see this being super successful, and Hazel, Dev, and their friends will need to find a way to rescue the fairies who have been kidnapped and had their magic taken (including Cosmo, Wanda, and Peri). However, there’s another wrinkle that I think could also be interesting and possibly a bit more unique…

So originally, according to the series bible, the Season 1 finale was going to involve Dale teaming up with the Pixies. Given that the Pixies are very business-focused, Dale would likely get along with them and be willing to team up with them in order to satisfy his greed. They could easily reuse this concept for the Season 2 finale, as the Pixies seem like an interesting and fun group of villains to have the gang go up against. Plus they would probably pose a formidable threat and invite some creative scenarios and solutions in order to defeat.

There’s also one more possibility I want to discuss in regards to potential villains and season-long arcs…

The Galax Institute

In “Crock to the Future”, we’re introduced to the Galax Institute, where Hazel’s father works. It’s revealed that A.J. is currently the head of the institute, and Crocker has been attempting to land a position there. We know that the Galax Institute studies paranormal phenomena, and it’s hinted at in the first episode that fairy magic could very well be one of those things. This could potentially be a great set-up for a season-long conflict.

I feel like A.J. being the main villain of this season would be a really fun twist. He doesn’t even have to be a mustache-twirling villain or super conniving, but having him serve more as just an inconvenient and unknowing antagonist would be interesting. He could be leading an effort to study increased supernatural activity in Dimmadelphia, and after finding out that a good amount of it is centered near the Wells residence, he could assign Marcus to investigate. Hazel and Antony would then have to try and hide Cosmo and Wanda from their dad and find a way to stop the Galax Institute from learning about the existence of fairies. Having Marcus technically be on the side of the “bad guys” could lead to some really interesting dynamics. Hazel might have to eventually tell her dad about her fairies in an effort to get him to help her protect them from the Galax Institute wanting to kidnap and study them. And considering Dale will likely still be playing a large antagonist role, perhaps he could be funding the Galax Institute’s research after taking part in a board meeting with them and noticing similarities between the phenomena they’re describing and what he’s found out during Project H. This could lead to some more complex conflicts that would be really fun to watch unfold.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaand that’s about it for now! Feel free to share any of your thoughts/predictions with me, as I’d love to discuss possibilities for this season!

Oh, and most importantly: STREAM THIS SHOW WHEN IT COMES OUT ON STREAMING SO WE CAN GET A SEASON 2

[rosakuma]

FOPANW Season Finale Prediction

Alrighty, since season one of Fairly Oddparents: A New Wish is ending tomorrow, I wanted to make my prediction on what will happen. Guarantee some stuff has made me nervous about the finale, but imma try to stay positive and realistic as possible. Will mention spoilers for the show, so ignore this if you don’t want to be spoiled or haven’t caught up yet(also if interested, please watch the show on Netflix in November to help it get a season two!). Let’s get started:

Okay so, recapping. Since Dev broke off his friendship with Hazel in “Operation Birthday Takedown” and at the end of “Best of Luck”, he’s going to research the anti-fairies. We know from the IMDB synopsis of the finale that Dev is going to team up with Irep to take over fairy world. This is going to happen while Hazel is about to celebrate and gain a rule free wish after having 100 wishes granted

Here’s some bullet points what I think is possibly that could happen in the finale and how I feel about them:

💚- Definitely can happen

🧡-Maybe could happen?

🩷- Would love this to happen

💛- Alright if this happens/neutral

❤️- NOO ANYTHING BUT THAT 😭

▪️Hazel using her rule free wish to trick the anti-fairies into being capture💚

▪️The fairies Vs anti-fairies fairy bake-off from the OG series happens🧡💛

◾️Irep betraying Dev💚💛

▪️Peri Vs Irep magic duel💚💛🩷

▪️Dev making up with/helping Hazel(redemption!) 💚🩷🧡

▪️Dev loses Peri as punishment for taking over fairy world💚💛

▪️Peri still wants to be Dev’s fairy godparent🩷

▪️Peri explodes due to Dev not making any wish ❤️🧡

▪️Hazel wishes Peri staying as Dev’s godparent if he loses him🩷

▪️Hazel and Dev don’t become friends and Dev now enemies with her permanently(no redemption route)❤️🧡

▪️Hazel doesn’t forgive Dev and they’re still not friends again, but doesn’t hate him and still helps him out 💛🧡

▪️Dev reflects on what happens(possibly redemption for next season) 💚🧡🩷

▪️Dale finds out about fairy world and gets involved with the takeover💛🧡

▪️Dev wishes that all fairies or Hazel gone❤️💚

▪️Dev wishes Hazel to be his friend again🧡💛

▪️Fairy world or earth is destroyed and she has to use her rule free wish to fix it💚💛🧡

▪️Cosmo goes super saiyan and somehow saves the day🩷🧡

And that’s all I can think of! Man I hope this finale turns out good and we get a season 2. The tweets from the crew members got me worry on some parts, but I’m sure they’ll deliver us a good season finale! (Just please I beg you, don’t pull a Chloe bourgeois or a Cozy Glow on Dev’s character 🙏)

[goodomensjail]

“Chekhov’s Gun” and Good Omens Episode 1 SPOILERS and speculation

yes i was at the Brooklyn July 18 premiere so these are real spoilers

The “Chekhov’s gun” is a story telling principle that says any detail in a story should serve a purpose in the overall narrative, i.e. if you SHOW a gun to the audience, it SHOULD be fired later in the story. 

Applying this to Heaven’s threat of erasing a name from the “Book of Life” as punishment for anyone hiding or kidnapping or assisting in the missing Gabriel issue: we have never heard the term “Book of Life” in season 1, and why mention it as a threat if it is not to be used in the plot? Why not just say “torture” or “toss into the deepest pit” or anything else that we as the audience would clearly understand as “bad thing”? 

No, it is purposefully stated “erased from the Book of Life” and then we are explicitly told this will mean “they will have never existed”. 

I propose this prediction for the climax of the story, based on my seeing episodes 1 & 2 AND the EVERY SPOILER!!! so STOP HERE if you have avoided and want to continue to avoid “EVERY”. I guess basically here is my current fanfic for the season. 

Fact: we have yet to find out Angel Crowley’s name. He suspiciously doesn't give it to Aziraphale who prompts him for an introduction in the opening pre-fall scene. He changes his name at least once, from Crawley to Crowley, and maybe more times since Hastur and Ligur bemoan “whats he going by these days” in season 1

Fact: The ONLY reason Crowley gets involved in helping hide Gabriel is after hearing that the Book of Life erasure punishment is in play and RUSHES to Aziraphale to protect him while “Good old fashioned lover boy” plays 

THEORY: Crowley will take the blame for hiding Gabriel by handing him into Hell in order to protect Aziraphale. Gabriel will regain his memory and will come to recognize Crowley as either Raphael or Lucifer (more on that theory later)  and Crowley will get Gabriel to swear to secrecy that Aziraphale was involved because hey wouldnt an Archangel want to take out a powerful demon who was once an Archangel or Gods Favorite Light Bringer? So Gabriel allows Crolwey to take the blame and heaven to erase him. 

Crowley will rush back to the bookshop to say goodbye to Aziraphale and EVERY happens. Something like “Well i guess if its my last chance to say it” a la doctor who happens, and smoooooch. and THEN. 

Nothing happens. Crowley cannot be erased because no one in heaven knows his name. They demand Muriel (a scribe angel) look up “the Demon Crowley” and she realizes rather happily there is no such name in the book. They try “the Demon Crawley” and still no luck. 

Gabriel returns to heaven, and he keeps mum on the subject, having gone on an emotional journey with the husbands, he looks at Muriel knowingly and says something like “o well, Muriel keep looking, however long it takes” and he turns on his heel and is off. Muriel smiles and we cut back to our husbands that are really confused, Aziraphale cuz he just got smooched by the love of his life and Crowley cuz apparently he now has to live with his actions....

As for the “Lucifer” theory instead of the Raphale theory: in the HEBREW BIBLE Satan and Lucifer appear to be different angels, Satan a title meaning “the opposer” or “the acuser” and Lucifer “Morning Star” or “Light Bringer” an angel “that fell”. 

Crowley was an angel creating stars including falling stars. 

Crowley appears to be the more powerful miracle maker in season 1, and appears to outrank Aziraphale in the pre fall scene. 

The angels say the miracle to hide Gabriel (which Crowley and Azirpahale performed together) was EXTREMELY powerful, too powerful for Azirpahale.

Crowley was an angel and a demon that did his own thing and didnt listen to authority, either God or Satan. 

Satan, the red horny guy, is clearly called “Satan” in season 1 EXCEPT for the bar scene where Crowley states “i was bored... and then hey its lucifer and the guys!” - what if he is referring to HIMSELF and the guys? it would still work. 

Neil has been pretty against the Raphael theory for some time....

ANYWAY. This is AAALLLL probably way off BUT if i even have a small portion of something right i need it written down to point to after July 28 :)

In ANY case there MUST be some kind of USE of the Book of Life i CANNOT imagine a world where that “gun” doesnt “fire”

EDIT: another story telling principle is called a “Red Herring” and that could also well be in play here, what with all the “Clue” references earlier this month. Lastly, the Archangels all SEE Crowley in the Job story, but he is in his glasses and in his time appropriate clothing....maybe the fact that he is always blending into the fashions of the time is that he is sorta HIDING his status as Raphale or Lucifer and blending in?

[only-one-star-reviews-er]

my hazbin predictions:

Sir Pentious will be the one to die. He’ll die doing something noble (sacrificing himself for his friends, I presume) which will be the final step in his redemption. He’ll be brought back to life and he and the egg bois will go to heaven as the first success story of the hotel. There will be a visual gag of the egg bois running around heaven, all with halos.

Angel will be offered heaven, however he will refuse because he wants to stay with his friends and help more people gain redemption like he did at the hotel (plus he wants to help free Husk). It will be revealed this was a final test and his rejecting heaven means he passed. Either he will be forced to go to heaven and this will drive conflict in season 2 or (most likely) as a gift from heaven his contract with Val will be nullified, perhaps with Val punished. Less poetically: Charlie finally kills Val, which frees angel.

Charlie goes slightly evil bc of emotion. Perhaps she is the one who lashes out with violence and Sir Pentious steps in front of someone to take this blow, and this is what kills him, not the angels. Charlie then has to deal with the fact that she killed her friend and a person she was trying to help. (Plus the biblical connotations of Lucifer’s daughter slaying a snake is poetic af)

Vaggie takes out that one angel’s eye (an eye for an eye, plus it makes sense with the X costume design)

It’s revealed that Alastor is under contract of Lilith and that’s why he’s so dedicated to helping Charlie. Either lilith forces him to be supportive of charlie OR lilith is using the hotel in some evil dastardly way and is forcing alastor to be a little mole and betray all his friends.

Lilith is working with heaven and is possibly an angel. She may be the first example of a soul’s redemption (maybe she was approved by adam bc he thought she was hot and now she’s being evil from inside heaven). This will further work against Charlie’s mission and reverse any progress Charlie has made in the eyes of the angels bc Lilith’s redemption backfired.

[ineffable-baker-street]

Metatron's Evil Plan

Starting with Gabriel's trial. Metatron said, "No speeches Gabriel you're not going to Hell.

He then adds "which there isn't."

It would obviously be an issue if Heaven were to be viewed as problematic and out of control, with fallen angels left, right and centre. So they tried to manage Gabriel, make it so he just faded from his place of power, but he outsmarted them. And suddenly there were two former high-up's down on earth, and we all saw just how desperate they were to get Gabriel back. It's clearly A Concern.

So unfortunately Gabriel has escaped from their clutches, with a Prince of Hell no less.

Very much not a good look. So Heaven needs to act and it needs to be now. Mere minutes after Gabriel and Beelzebub leave together, Metatron is on earth.

Then he goes to the coffee shop. He asks Nina, "Do people ever ask for Death?" and the subtitles were capitalised which I do think further supports my point. We already know that seeing Death is a bad omen, since at the end of Season One right after they saw him they were both dragged away to their would-be permanent discorporations.

There is also something to be said for the mirroring of the first season and second season. I've seen theories, as well as noticed myself that many things line up. I can't find the post that laid a lot of things out but here's a few that I've noticed.

The mention of Death in the final episode, right before something bad happens (they both get taken to be punished/Aziraphale leaves Earth.)

Aziraphale and Crowley both holding someone's hands with the person in between them (Adam in S1E6 and Jimbriel in season 2, episode one or two i can't remember which)

The Nightingale reference. Pretty obvious, but ending the season on that song holds significance. I think most people have seen the theory that that's a message from Aziraphale, but I won't go into that here or this will never end.

The nightingales plus the plans to go to the Ritz being gone I think is definitely symbolic of the fact that they've lost something. Again, an obvious option, but it's an important place for them, so the fact they had similar plans, that were then interrupted, reflects Season One while also telling us that things are clearly not going to be good.

But then you also consider that it's perhaps exactly what the Metatron wanted all along, for Crowley and Aziraphale's relationship of love and trust to completely fall away, symbolised by the hopes of dining at the Ritz disappearing.

Therefore I think a pretty reasonable conclusion from the mention of Death - and the parallels with last season - from someone as sinister as the Metatron is that something is going to happen to most likely both of them. Metatron is also almost surprised that people never ask for death, as it is "so predictable." There was definite intention in that scene, and makes me wonder if he thinks whatever he's trying to make happen will make them wish for death?

This next point is a big one. At first you might think its coincidental but if you go back and watch the scene I think you'll be convinced. When the Metatron enters the bookshop, the lamps with the candle looking bulbs and the glass decorations jingle and move. I can't find a good GIF to show it but if you rewatch I promise you'll notice it. And yes, since the door has just closed and there's potential wind they might move for a few seconds, but they continue moving the entire time Metatron is in the bookshop. This scene goes on for approximately 2.5 - 3 minutes, definitely too long for them to be moving. But, I suppose you never know, could be coincidental. Until he leaves the shop with Aziraphale. They move more vigorously on his way out, but by the time (about three seconds) Crowley walks towards the window to watch them go, they've completely stopped moving. Not a coincidence. Metatron has some sort of energy that's powerful, or influential enough, that it cause material objects to move vigorously when he's near them. They didn't even move nearly as much when literal demons entered the shop, at the beginning of episode six.

Considering the fact that those lamps were completely conjured by Aziraphale for his ball, I have a strong suspicion he's particularly influential over magical objects... or magical things (entities) in general. (This is important later)

Metatron also says, "just you and me, Aziraphale, eh?" which is honestly something that sounds more like enemies facing off in a battle, than friends going out for a chat. It's like when a murderer is alone with their victim, and while Az and Metatron are talking there are no witnesses. I definitely think this is foreshadowing for next season when Aziraphale has to face off with the Metatron.

When they're leaving the shop the Metatron is all lovely smiles while Aziraphale is looking, and he seems a bit like a harmless old man, but as soon as Azi's back is turned he gives Crowley the most hateful, sinister, conniving glare, with [tense music playing] according to the subtitles and also my ears. He is up to something. This is a very strong piece of evidence that the Metatron Does Not Like Crowley.

He tells Aziraphale, "you are just the angel for the job." It could be an ordinary thing to say, but no I don't think so. I think the Metatron has been carefully considering this for quite some time, and I think this is all about Crowley. He says there are "huge plans afoot, enormous projects," and he's so careful to be extremely vague, while talking Aziraphale up. Then he uses a tactic knows will work, which is playing with Aziraphale's heart and using Crowley.

"I've been looking back over a number of your previous exploits, and I see that in quite a few of them you formed a de facto partnership with the demon Crowley."

He has done meticulous research, and it's made clear earlier that he hates Crowley. But, he knows that Aziraphale loves Crowley, and that he wouldnt be able to resist the chance to try and do what he thinks is the right thing. Metatron mentioned that he was a 'Prince of Heaven' and that it could be seen as an 'institutional problem'. Well Heaven can't really been seen to have problems can it? And Crowley has been doing whatever he pleases for six thousand years, not on the side of Heaven or Hell, and I think that they're sick of it. He's already 'corrupted' one angel, who knows what's next? They don't want someone to hold that kind of knowledge and power over them, and Crowley holds a far greater knowledge of earth than any of the rest of them do.

And so the Metatron offers Aziraphale something he knows he won't refuse:

And I have to ask, why, why would he ever have Crowley reinstated to "full angelic status?" Two seconds ago he just described him as a demon?? The answer is that he wouldn't. Somehow I don't think heaven makes a habit of restoring fallen angels. He has a master plan, and that involves getting to Crowley, which means getting Aziraphale out of the way. Eventually I think they'll attempt to use them against each other, but the first thing for them to do was gain some control over Crowley. The Metatron had offered for Crowley to come to Heaven, which does of course provide easy access to him and if Crowley had chosen to do that it probably would've worked for them. But I think the Metatron was counting on Crowley not wanting to go back, and that Aziraphale suggesting it would even drive a wedge through their relationship (which it did).

And now Aziraphale is off somewhere busy working, they aren't speaking to each other and Crowley is alone on earth, no one is going to notice if something happens to him or he goes missing.

Aziraphale also really isn't that special to Heaven, he's just another angel, and one who doesn't always do as he's told, which begs the question of why Metatron would make a whole trip to earth, just to give him Gabriel's job. It could go to pretty much anyone honestly. So when Metatron says 'The Job,' I'm certain he does not mean taking over Gabriel's position. He means the job of getting demon Crowley back in order and control, so he stops causing problems for Heaven. Because wherever there's a problem, Crowley is at the centre of it.

Finally. Aziraphale's insane smile in the elevator.

DO YOU SEE HOW CREEPY THAT IS?? It's so off putting, and given he's just effectively broken up with Crowley you wouldn't expect him to be too cheerful. That is the least genuine smile I have ever seen, like it does not even look like Aziraphale anymore. At first I thought it was just him trying to make himself feel okay about everything, and it technically could be, but I'm not convinced of that. There's obviously the theory that Metatron put something in Aziraphale's coffee, but I just don't buy that (no hate to the theory ofc, definitely still a possibility). It's so simple, so human, and this brings me to my point about Metatron having influence over objects, particularly magical ones, and potentially entities as well. I think it is far more likely that Metatron is either brainwashing Aziraphale or simply has an element of control over him, but isn't entirely controlling him. Could be persuasive power, which he uses to influence Aziraphale, but technically if Az fought really hard he could fight him off. My mind influence theory is supported on multiple occassions, where Aziraphale seems to want to change his mind, or act a certain way, and then suddenly snaps back to acting like everything is okay. Examples of that are:

- Aziraphale straight up says he doesnt want to go to Heaven. He tries to play it off as a bit of a joke but he looked pretty damn serious when he says it. He looks so doubtful, but between then and speaking to Crowley, his attitude does a complete 180 flip

- "Well obviously you said no to Hell, you're the bad guys." Aziraphale would NEVER say that if his mind was completely his own. He has spent almost their entire existence saying that Crowley is nice and good and kind. He doesn't think for a moment that Crowley is grouped in with Hell anymore, but that's certainly what the Metatron would think

- Metatron walks in right after Crowley leaves and isn't at all surprised by the fact that Crowley refused, more evidence that it was what he'd hoped and planned for. "Ah well always did want to go his own way. Always asking damn fool questions too." Which is a tiny bit of further background into fallen angel Crowley.

- When Aziraphale is heavily considering changing his mind, Metatron keeps talking as though Aziraphale is saying different words. "It should be in safe hands." "Anything you need to take with you?" He's suddenly really pushing Aziraphale, even though he said there was no need to answer right away.

And that is all I have for you!! If anyone has anything to add I would LOVE to hear, this is my theory, definitely not the only possibility but I do think it's a candidate. Please let me know if there's any major points I've missed, I'm sure there probably is 🤍

@a-hearts-a-heavy-burden let me know what you think!!

[autumnmobile12]

All right, this scene is a contentious one to say the least.

I want to look at the elements that make up this part, starting from the very beginning.

After waking up in Gresit, Alucard had one goal:  Kill Dracula.  Throughout Season 2, he’s determined, he has points of dry, sarcastic humor, but as a whole, his personality is pretty grim.  He is absolutely unwavering in his determination.

Once Dracula was dead, though, he now has to live with the guilt of not only killing the father who loved and raised him but also the guilt over being unable to save his mother when she needed him.  When Lisa was taken, Alucard was traveling, and though he never explicitly says this, I would bet anything that ever since that night he has asked himself, “Why wasn’t I there?  What could I have done differently?  If I had done _______, she would be here right now and none of this would have ever happened.”  Alucard is a rational character.  He understands that what happened to Lisa was a cruel accident of fate.  She was accused of witchcraft, and he and his father were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.  They couldn’t have predicted her death, they couldn’t have changed it.

But this is how the Bargaining Stage of Grief plays out.  This is what sets him apart from Trevor and Sypha by the end of Season 2.  Between the three of them, Sypha still has her family waiting for her.  She still has her people and the optimism to still see the brighter future.  (Which is a trait she never fully loses.)  As for Trevor, he had already lost everyone he’d ever loved, and so he definitely already went through all the messy stages of grief to the point of sad acceptance that his family is dead and now he has to live with that.

Alucard can’t identify with that kind of acceptance yet, for either of his parents. The grief is too raw, and so I believe his decision to remain behind while his companions left without him was a form of self-punishment.  In spite of the understanding it wasn’t his fault, he doesn’t believe he deserves to be happy after everything that happened.  Sure, he says he needs to protect the accumulation of his father’s knowledge, and while that might have been true, I feel like he had other options.  The show demonstrates that magic is capable of the impossible, so I feel like there should have been some kind of spell that could be engineered to keep his father’s/the Hold’s collection from being destroyed or looted.  If he asked Sypha and Trevor to stay and help him, I think they would have.  Instead, he watches them leave without asking them to visit or even expecting to see them ever again.  And we leave him finally breaking down over his losses.

All this to say he was not in a good headspace when Sumi and Taka showed up, which they picked up on and exploited to their advantage.  (The guy was talking to dolls he’d made to resemble his friends, and he was mimicking their voices in pseudo-conversation.  Funny conversations, yes, but damn, that coping mechanism…)

The first thing Alucard tells them is he ‘will not be hunted,’ but there is a disturbing irony here.

Attacking them indicates that his guard was up and he was ready to end lives if he had to.  Self-preservation is on point.  It’s Sumi and Taka who de-escalate the situation.  “We mean you no harm.  We came to ask you for help.”  They’re smiling and laughing by the end of this initial encounter.  They tell him their story.  “We’re these poor, innocent waifs from a distant land searching for a way to save our people.  Pity us.”  They present themselves as non-threatening, wide-eyed victims who only need help, which is a ruse he unfortunately falls for.

“It’s time for your reward.”

It makes my skin crawl how despicable that one line of manipulation is.  This is the chink in Alucard’s armor:  the idea of guilt that persists after the mother he couldn’t save and the father he killed, especially the latter.  Understandably, although Alucard recognizes what he did was necessary, the fact he’s committed patricide is weighing on him.  There was Sypha’s words of comfort at the end of Season 2 that was it was ‘okay to love the man,’ but neither she or Trevor are around.  This leaves the opening for the toxic, false comfort of Sumi and Taka’s manipulation.  Here they are introducing the conflicting idea that what he did is worthy of praise.

Couple that with the factor that at this point, he’s only known them for a few days at most.  Obviously, that’s nowhere near long enough to establish an emotional connection that’s strong enough to say,  “Yes, I want to be with this person.”  But his silence is not consent; in fact, I see this as fear that if he does not go through with this like they want, it will make them leave him like Sypha and Trevor did.  Again, they are playing on that fatal loneliness.  Coercion.

Soft words, soft voices, and that is he what he needed to hear.

And Sumi and Taka knew exactly what to say.

Back in their flashback about Cho, Sumi and Taka talk how they ‘studied’ her, studied the way she fought, and learned about her weaknesses for years.  This is the subtlest bit of foreshadowing I’ve found so far in the series.  It shows that Sumi and Taka don’t hunt vampires the way Trevor does.  They’re formidable fighters, yes, but they were not born and raised to hunt like the Belmonts were.  They don’t have that specific training or discipline, so they make up for it with deceit.  They ingratiate themselves with their prey, observing them and looking for the weak point.

Alucard said he would not be hunted.

But he was.

The entire time they were there, Sumi and Taka were studying him the way they studied Cho.  They saw Alucard’s loneliness and they took full advantage of the trust he gave them.  He invited them into his home, fed, and looked after them, he saw himself as their friend while the whole time they were looking for a way to kill him.  They were continuously asking about weapons, magic, off-limits rooms in the Castle, when the Castle could be fixed, etc.  They were trying to zero in on the ‘kill room’ where he would be at his most vulnerable.

It’s hard to say how much of Sumi and Taka’s story was true given the outcome, but I’m inclined to believe it was but with one caveat.  I don’t think they helped their fellow prisoners escape.  I think they were the only survivors.  There’s no evidence of this other than the fact I think it’s suspicious that they left their friends behind to seek help.  Okay…Japan is a long way from Wallachia.  They couldn’t find anyone closer?  They didn’t try to smuggle more people away?  They don’t even mention their people in their angry ranting before they try to kill Alucard.

There’s also the brief line where they say they were given to Cho’s court as children.  It’s not clear whether or not their parents were forced to give them up as tribute to Cho, but that’s irrelevant if they themselves felt betrayed and abandoned by the people who should have loved and protected them.  There is the later line where they say everyone lies to them.  With that, I think they were so far in the fog of grief and anger that in their minds, they were unable to recognize Alucard could have been a genuine ally to them, and they only saw him as just another vampire who was evil and needed to be killed.

The beauty and the tragedy of both Alucard and Lisa’s characters is that they are both so incredibly kind and selfless, and they want to believe in people.  Even when the Bishop’s henchmen came to her home, Lisa didn’t immediately jump to the conclusion of witchcraft and fear.  She asked if the Archbishop was ill and if they needed her help.  When they started tearing apart her home, she told them whatever they wanted she would give it to them.  She didn’t try to run.  She tried to explain calmly about her medical practice and that what she did helped people.  Her undoing was a man who meant her harm.

Lisa’s arrest is mirrored in the moments before Alucard kills Sumi and Taka.  Even though he realizes what’s happened and the situation he’s in, realizing they aren’t with him out of love and this was all a manipulation, a trap, and even rape——even though he realized all that, he still wanted to help them.

Right before they die, he is begging them to listen, that is their friend, and he can help them. The world is not against them.  These aren’t the words of a man trying to save himself.  He is living admirably up to the virtues he learned from his mother.  He waited until the last possible moment before choosing to save his own life over theirs. And his last line to them is, “I never lied to you.”

There’s no condoning what Sumi and Taka did to Alucard, that is an undeniably fucked up thing to do to a person and the plot accounted for it by killing off their characters.  However, I do feel these two are a testament to how anger and hatred will destroy a person and are a kind of foil to characters like Isaac. Isaac was horribly abused in his past and he had every reason to resent humanity, and yet by the end of his arc, he was beginning to let go of his anger and start a new life where he could be happy.  This is the lesson Isaac learns by the end of Season 3 whereas we leave Alucard again weeping alone with the memory of people he couldn’t save:  his mother and father and the two people he thought were his friends.  Again, he is grieving.  “I was a good friend to them, wasn’t I?  I helped them, didn’t I?  What did I do wrong?’

The answers are yes, yes, and no, he did nothing wrong.  Grieving is coming to terms with that.

And finally, we have the gruesome way in which he ‘displays’ their bodies outside the Castle as a means to warn off other travelers or intruders.  Impalement was a very degrading means of execution.  It was excruciatingly slow, extremely painful, and those who faced this sentence would suffer for hours if not days in public.  You see the rage and humiliation he feels, and so by impaling the corpses, he in turn inflicted that humiliation on Sumi and Taka.  It’s probably as close to the ‘eye for an eye’ mentality as he gets.

A recurring theme throughout the series is innocence against the brutality of a cruel world.  Characters like Sypha, Alucard, and Lisa can give all the kindness they have to offer, but they can’t change the fact that people like the Judge and Bishop exist.  Characters like Trevor and Isaac lost their faith in humanity and found it again with the help of people like Sypha and the Ship Captain.  And characters like Dracula, Carmilla, and even Sumi and Taka, lost their way entirely and were swallowed up by their rage and pain.

[demon-in-the-details]

I have more Things to Say. In my previous post I talked about my predictions for Aziraphale. Now here's my prediction for Crowley:

Crowley will become the Grand Duke of Hell

I would not have initially guessed at this, however when Michael Sheen tweeted out and called Crowley the thin dark Duke it made my ears perk up. I know that was supposed to be a reference to David Bowie and the “thin white Duke,” but I think that is plausible deniability. The actors know where this story is going. (I wonder if Sheen got A Stern Talking To from Gaiman).

We know that Neil Gaiman is trying to stick to a plan for a sequel that he and Terry Pratchett hashed out decades ago right after the book Good Omens came out. At the time the demon and the angel were just two friends who worked together to stop Armaggedon. In the book nothing happened to them for what they did, they were not punished. It would be an interesting plot point for them to both be recalled to heaven and hell, then put in positions opposing each other. Former friends pitted against each other. 

Then it became clear that fans saw the angel and demon pairing as a love story. Gaiman ran with that in the first season, and everyone loved it. It ramps up the stakes even higher. Now instead of just friends forced to be on opposite sides, we have star-crossed lovers who desperately want to be together getting set up to battle one another. That only happens if Aziraphale becomes the Supreme Archangel, and Crowley becomes the Grand Duke of Hell. This also gives Crowley some power and insight into what is happening, instead of just being a sad sack wandering around Earth moping over Aziraphale. Crowley will still want to protect him. He can’t do that in his current situation. I think Beelzebub telling Crowley he “could be a Duke of Hell” in return for bringing her Gabriel is foreshadowing. 

Gaiman said season 2 was a bridge to get the characters where he wanted them for season 3. After the body swap plot line was added they needed some maneuvering to get them back into heaven/hell. He wants it clear that they are in love, then wants them torn apart and put on opposite sides like the original plan he made with Pratchett. It is deliciously heartbreaking. The love story between Gabriel and Beelzebub was to get them out of the way so Aziraphale and Crowley could step into their roles. The powers that be will think they set the two up to go head-to-head to the point of mutual destruction because they have broken each other’s hearts, but of course our ineffables will have something up their sleeves and it will all turn out okay.

“But we already did the Archangel/Duke of Hell pairing with Gabriel and Beelzebub!” I hear you say. Yes, and who loves putting funhouse mirrors all over the place? Neil Gaiman. 

[barren-heart]

what we theorize in the shadows

Season 6 theory time plus S6 bingo card

Theories

1. Guillermo, not being a vampire anymore, works on a new life goal, potentially leaving permanently as a familiar and working on different jobs. Maybe we will see him working with a group of legitimate slayers as he battles whether or not he should kill vampires.

2. Colin will try out other jobs. I hope to see him and Guillermo bond, potentially working the same job together. I’d like to see Colin date again and more of his backstory.

3. I think it would be great to see Nadja explore more leadership positions. I would love if she wrote a book, possibly with the help of Guillermo and do a book tour.

4. I’d love if Nandor had an arc where he was actively trying to survive. A lot of his arc has been about loneliness and boredom. Being the oldest in the house, I like to see him struggle with fighting to stay alive. I’m hoping we get to see slayers and they actively hunt him, causing Guillermo to get involved. Also, I think it would be interesting to see Nandor try and get a new familiar, but hate it.

5. I’d love more science experiments from Lazslo. I think it’d be funny if he accidentally invented something like time travel. I’d love for him and Sean to do more things together. Their friendship is priceless. I’m hoping for them to join a competitive sports team, possibly bowling or something else like that.

6. I predict the Guide will get a promotion. It’d be nice if there was a position she got to have that wasn’t punishment.

These arn’t necessarily everything I want to happen, but what I predict will happen.

You’re welcome to play along with me!

[marvelmusing]

Take Over

Pairing: Crime Lord!Billy x NYPD!Fem!Reader

Summary: It’s fair to say that the Russo case has taken over your life. But maybe you’re okay with that. The Punisher Season 2 AU (where literally everyone except Billy dies)

Warnings: reader’s boyfriend is a pushy asshole, mentions of canon level violence and death, the reader is into violence (probably as much as Billy is but she hasn’t admitted that to herself yet), alcohol consumption, kinda suggestive flirting.

The lifeless body of the Punisher was delivered, beaten and bloodied, to Homeland Security.

Desperate for justice, Agent Madani had followed the trail only to run into Krista Dumont. When Dumont consequently fell to her death, Billy Russo was there on the sidewalk to witness her last moments.

In a siege of violence, Billy had stormed into Dumont’s apartment, firing a burst of bullets towards Madani. He had choked the life out of her himself.

Within the space of twenty four hours, the only two people capable of stopping Billy Russo were dead.

There was no stopping him now.

Six months later, you’re a key analyst working on NYPD’s case against Russo. The research knocks you down the rabbit hole, spending countless late nights reading and investigating. Soon, there’s no one who knows him better than you.

This knowledge and understanding of Russo unsettles your colleagues, and your superiors refuse to listen to your predictions - even when you’re proven to be right. All in all, work is a hell of your own making.

When your boyfriend Callum asks you to join him on a night out at a new club you’re tempted to say you’re too tired. It wouldn’t be a lie. But then you feel bad.

Over the last few months you feel like you’ve neglected Callum, but you’ve been so busy with work, alongside managing all the household tasks since the two of you had moved in together. So you agree.

It’s only you reach the entrance that you realise this is one of Billy Russo’s clubs.

Nerves twist over in your stomach, but there’s no reason for Russo to suspect you of anything. There’s no reason for him to even be here, at this club, tonight.

As usual, Callum finds some supposed old friends to catch up with, leaving you alone at the bar.

When the atmosphere shifts, you turn and watch as Mr Russo descends the stairs in the corner. Music continues to thrum through the building, but to you it might as well be silent as you watch him.

The crowd parts for him as he makes his way towards the bar. Staring hard at the liquors lined up over the wall, you fail to see how his eyes linger on you. A shiver runs through your body at the sound of his voice as he speaks to the bartender.

“My usual. An’ another one-a those.”

He gestures towards your glass with a casual lift of his fingers as he sits down, dropping his jacket onto the seat beside him.

“Thank you, but you don’t need to, sir.”

He shakes his head with a coy grin.

“A beautiful woman like yourself shouldn’t be drinkin’ alone.”

Cheeks warming, you look down awkwardly before you stammer quietly,

“Oh, erm, I’m not here alone.”

Not that it happened often, but if someone hit on you your usual response would be to tell them you have a boyfriend. When had you become so embarrassed to admit that Callum is your boyfriend?

Conflict filling you, a glance over towards the dance floor has you grimacing lightly as a girl practically grinds against your boyfriend’s body.

Mr Russo looks you up and down carefully, before he takes a drink.

“That your fella?”

You nod with a small hum.

“Unfortunately.”

You smile at the bartender as she places the fresh glass down in front of you. Swallowing half of the contents in one go, you relish at the burn in your throat that matches the emotion burning in your chest.

Mr Russo is wearing a fitted khaki sweater, and what looks like a black tee underneath. Casual clothes, but he looks the most put together out of everyone here. Maybe it’s the way he holds himself.

His dark hair is slicked back away from his face, stylish and practical, giving his scars nothing to hide behind. It’s been almost a year and a half since the Punisher had left those scars on his face and they’ve healed well.

From the doctor’s notes that you’ve read, there hadn’t been much hope for him even after he survived the surgery that saved him.

The fact that he was able to sit near you and have a conversation was a miracle, let alone manage a flourishing criminal empire.

You shouldn’t be impressed by that.

“You deserve better.”

Swivelling your head back to look at him, you find Mr Russo’s eyes are staring directly at you.

“Excuse me?”

His expression doesn’t falter.

“You heard me.”

“You don’t even know me.”

“I need to know you to know that you deserve better than that?”

He raises a brow, gesturing with his face back towards the dance floor. Two girls are now dancing over Callum, and he seems to be enjoying all the attention.

When he manages to catch you gaze you give him an unimpressed look. He starts to move towards you, prompting you to finish the rest of your drink, leaving a tip for the bartender as you stand.

It’s then that you notice Mr Russo has disappeared.

At that moment, your boyfriend arrives, giving you no time to ponder the whereabouts of Russo. Callum leans in, caging you against the bar with his arms.

“Hey babe.”

Your own greeting comes out tense as he mouths sloppily at your cheek.

“Callum.”

He then attempts to slide his hand up your skirt.

“Callum, stop.”

He groans in protest before he says in a chastising tone,

“Babe. Quit being difficult.”

Tears prickle in your eyes and you go to move away from him.

“Are you serious? We’re not doing this.”

Despite the strength you attempt to put into your statement, your voice wavers. Then Callum grasps your wrist, squeezing hard. Writhing uncomfortably in his hold, you tug away.

A man nearby steps closer, narrowing his eyes at Callum.

“Hey man, she told you to stop.”

Your boyfriend releases his hold on you, using both hands to shove at the man. He’s tall, and barely moves an inch as Callum snaps,

“Mind your own fucking business.”

Another man steps in your direction, looking Callum up and down with a rather disgusted expression.

“There a problem here?”

“My only problem here is you and the rest of Russo’s dogs.”

These men work for Russo. The bottom of your stomach plummets. Your boyfriend is going to get himself killed. One of the men straightens his shoulders, his nostrils flaring.

“The fuck did you just say?”

Some people might hear those words and consider what they’re doing. Callum doesn’t. He doubles down, and you wish you could just disappear into the ground.

“I said you’re my problem. All I ever hear about these days is Billy Russo this and Billy Russo that. I’m fucking sick of it.”

Is he talking about you? Work might have consumed you a little at the moment, but you never talked about Russo at home.

“Well, ain’t that interesting?”

Callum freezes, as do you, at the sound of a familiar voice. The man stand aside, revealing Mr Billy Russo. He slides a hand into his pocket, as he takes a few smooth steps towards you both.

“You know Callum, I understand where you’re comin’ from. If I owed a guy the amount-a money you owe me, than I’d be sick to death of his name too.”

Stunned, all you can do is blink at them both. Your boyfriend was in debt to the criminal you had been attempting to bring in for the last six months. Not only are you finally realising Callum isn’t worth your time, but you also think you aren’t very good at your job.

Then Callum takes a swing at Russo. It doesn’t even land, and soon his men has pounced, subduing Callum in mere seconds.

Mr Russo hadn’t flinched.

You’re mortified, and a little terrified.

“Mr Russo, I’m so sorry.”

He waves away your apology.

“Not your fault now is it, darlin’?” He grins, almost softly at you before he adds, “An’ you can call me Billy.”

He winks and your heart flutters traitorously.

There’s a cry of pain behind you, but just as you’re turning to look Billy speaks again,

“C’mere darlin’.”

There’s half a second of hesitation before you’re moving towards him. When you come close enough, he takes your chin between his fingers, squeezing softly.

“Good girl.”

The corner of his mouth twitches with a cocky smirk as he observes the haze that momentarily clouds your vision.

“You wanna watch?”

Confusion enters your expression and Billy turns your head to face the group that has circled around Callum as he lies on the floor groaning in pain.

“You wanna watch my men kick the shit outta your boyfriend?”

A soft exhale falls from your lips before you correct him.

“Ex-boyfriend.”

Billy grins, and his shoulders shake lightly as he laughs. Turning to look at him, you catch his gaze again and the spark in his eyes bursts into a flame that warms your whole body.

It’s only now that you notice the quiet. The music is still playing, though not as loud as before, but there’s no one else in the room. Blinking, you realise the club must have started being cleared the moment Callum had approached you.

Billy traces his tongue over his teeth as his eyes rake down your body, and if you thought you were on fire before, now you’re an inferno. He raises a brow, almost casually as he wraps his arms around you.

“So, you’re single?”

A small laugh escapes your lips and Billy seems thrilled by your response, his entire face lighting up at the sound of you laughing.

Despite the fact that your ex-boyfriend is being beaten up in front of you, you can’t stop yourself from batting your lashes and asking coyly,

“Are you asking me out, Mr Russo?”

He pulls your back flush against his front and even under the soft fabric of his sweater you can feel the hard lines of his chest. Shifting your hips lightly, you watch as his eyes darken.

His hands grasp at your waist, holding you still with a force that makes you shiver.

“Careful, baby.” His voice is low as his lips brush lightly against the shell of your ear. “Don’t wanna start something we can’t finish.”

Billy takes you earlobe between his teeth, tracing the delicate skin with the tip of his tongue before he withdraws, pulling a gasp and a shudder from you as his teeth nip down.

“Soon this place will be crawlin’ with cops, I’d have to take you home with me.”

A whine falls from your lips as he mouths along your neck, his stubble scratching over your skin and he breathes out a small laugh.

“Maybe you’d like that, hm? You wanna come home with me, darlin’?”

You don’t hesitate for as long as you should and before you know it, you’re nodding. Billy nods back with a wide smile.

His smile drops as he step away from you. Billy’s men are still circled around Callum, who can barely move from his position on the floor, bruised and bloodied. The men part as Billy moves forward, leaning down slightly to look at Callum.

All you can see is Billy’s back, as he stares down at your ex-boyfriend. Then he gives the order,

“Finish him.”

Rolling his shoulder lightly, Billy rocks back on the balls of his feet as he moves away and his men continue with their work. He grins when his eyes fall on you.

“I got better things to spend my time on.”

The dark look in his eyes as they scan down your body makes you squeeze your thighs together, drawing Billy’s attention down there as you do.

Biting down on your lower lip, you look at him curiously.

“Better things?”

He nods, holding his hand out towards you.

“Let’s get outta here.”

You take his hand.

»»---------------------►

marvelmusing Tag List: @dreamlandcreations @blanchedelioncourt @idaofinfinity @slytherheign @ellooo0ooo @vixenofcourse @dumb-fawkin-bitch

Billy Russo Tag List: @blackbirddaredevil23 @rafaelakelley @theysayitscrazy @nyx2021 @skybridgerton @dragon-of-winterfell @chickensarentcheap @stardustmorozov @sweetwritingfanficfriend @witchcraftandwit @ladyofsoa

BB Characters Tag List: @rachlovesactors @noortsshift @aikeia @weallhaveadestiny

[thezombieprostitute]

Alphas & Algorithms

A/N: Written for the @the-slumberparty​ Bingo card, combining "Tinder Date" and "Dystopian AU" (the former is a bit weak, but it still holds). Reader is referred to as she/her and tall but no other descriptors.

Warnings: It is a Dystopian AU. Food scarcity, hunger, mentions of families being separated. Please let me know if I missed any!

A/N2: I've officially gotten my bingo card to where there are NO bingos and the next thing I write will result in a minimum of 2 bingos in one!

--Part 2--

--Series Masterlist--

The AI had started slowly. Subtly integrating itself into every facet of society. Once it was ready, its takeover was fast and bloody. Packs were still bearing the scars of it even now. There had been attempts to overthrow the AI but it learned from each try. As potent as its algorithms were it recognized that there would always be a small percentage of humanity that it would never be able to fully predict. That’s when it recruited the Omegas.

Because Omegas were naturally attuned to the emotional and psychological well-being of those around them, the AI began to use them when investigating civilians. The AI’s algorithm could easily pick out which citizens had the highest probabilities of rebelling against the system or even committing minor infractions, but the Omegas had proven themselves in being able to confirm or deny the reality of those probabilities. 

They didn’t want to help the AI but it understood the importance of Packs and would not hesitate to use their Packmates against them. It would focus on the Alphas as their bigger, stronger forms were deemed “not needed” in the world the AI had created. To save their Packmates, the Omegas ended up working for the AI. They were rewarded for accurate prediction and harshly punished for incorrect ones. 

Over the generations Omegas were gradually separated from Packs all together. Their training earned them the derogatory nickname “Pets”. When there was a noticeable drop in the Omega population the AI’s data indicated an Alpha/Omega mating was much more likely to result in Omegas than any other combination. 

And that’s what led to Y/N being here, at what her Alpha mother had derisively called “the Tinder App”. Y/N didn’t know what that meant but guessed it was based on some older technology. The AI consistently kept data on known Alphas and had collected 10 of the most biologically compatible with her, the Alphas most likely to give the AI more Omegas. The 10 boxes in front of her contained a sample of their scents. If she liked the scent, it was to be put to the right of the table. If she didn’t, it went to the left.

“What if I don’t like any of them,” she whispered to Jake. He was her best friend and Emotional Support Beta. He’d been assigned to her the minute she presented as an Omega. His role was both emotional support (in place of pack-bonding) as well as leverage for the AI to use against her.

“Don’t worry,” Jake whispered back. “I’ve personally evaluated at least half of them and I know you’ll find a few that you like.”

“How did you manage that?”

“I logiced with the AI that I could help reduce the number of disliked scents, optimizing the chances of you finding a good mate. Now go on and give the sniff test.” He pushed Y/N forward a bit. 

The first few scents were nice enough. Nothing particularly noticeable or unpleasant. She decided to keep those in the middle until she’d checked out a few others. The fifth scent made her go into a coughing fit.

“Woah, there,” Jake grabbed and hugged her while she kept coughing. “What the hell is in that box?!”

“I dunno but it smells like when you fry up dried spicy peppers and the smoke gets everywhere,” Y/N explained between coughs. “When that Alpha’s having a good day it’d be like adding a bit of spice and seasoning to bland foods. But when he’s having a bad day, it’d be like smelling bear spray.” Jake winces in sympathy and Y/N promptly moves the box to the left. Neither notices the AI crossing off the name “Hansen, L.” from its list of potential Alphas.

When Y/N recovered she went back to one of the mildly pleasant scents to clean her palette. She ended up moving a couple more to the left because, after the shock to her system with the smoky pepper scent, these ones just felt especially bland.

The sixth and seventh scents were at least interesting so she moved those to the right. The next scent almost made her knees shake with how good it was. It smelled like the warmth of a fire on a cold night, a light in the darkness that promised safety and companionship. On a good day there was warmth, food and safety. On a bad day it was just a lot of smoke that seemed to follow you no matter where you sat around it. It was definitely a keeper and she moved it to the right.

The ninth scent made her freeze in a way Jake recognized as fear so he immediately comforted her and put away the offending scent. She described the scent as “a glacier in the ocean. You might think you’re far enough away but you’re not. On a good day, you can see it clearly and try to avoid it. On a bad day, there’s fog everywhere, the ship sinks and you have to choose between drowning and hypothermia.” As she recovers from another shock, the AI crosses off “Drysdale, R.” from its list. 

The final scent was almost as good as the campfire one. She smelled it a few times and enjoyed the sensation of a cold front breaking the heatwave, making outside life bearable again. On the bad days, it would bring a blizzard and cover everything, but on the good days, relief. She almost wished she could have both Alphas as she moved the final scent to the right. But then she reminded herself of her promise to not be like her Omega father and that she wanted to be a good mate to whatever Alpha she ended up with. Probably would be easier if she only had one Alpha to dote on.

Every time Curtis woke up he expected that he’d finally be numb to the pain his body plagued him with. Every time he was disappointed. His Alpha designation meant he was deemed to be only suitable for heavy labor and drudgery work. Betas do the smart stuff, Omegas do the snitching, and Alphas do what labor the AI hasn’t replaced with robots, he thought to himself. He took a deep breath and got up. 

The rest of the pack was starting to stir as well. Only the pups were allowed to sleep a little later as they not only needed the rest but it gave the adults a few minutes of quiet in the mornings. Timmy, Yona and Andy weren’t rowdy kids, but some mornings were tougher than others. Curtis was especially protective of them since his own brother had been taken to be a whipping boy for some Omega several years ago. The only comfort his pack got was that, at the start of the month, they received credits equivalent to whatever wages he would’ve earned had he still been with them. Curtis hoped it was also a sign that he was still alive. 

Tanya and Andrew were just divvying up the ration packs for everyone for the day. They had to be careful since the AI kept touting that everyone was getting the exact amount of vitamins and minerals they needed each day. That knowledge didn’t help with the hunger and Curtis wondered if it was a side-effect of an Alpha physique to need more. He’d never ask for more, of course, but he still wondered.

Tanya smiled as best she could and handed Curtis his rations when there was a loud bang on the door that woke up everyone. The entire pack on edge, Curtis called out, “who is it?”

“AI Security Drone. Please open the door or we will break it down.” The pups started silently crying in fear as the other pack members tried to calm them down. Curtis stepped up and opened the door but did not let the drone inside. Alphas might not have practical skills for this day and age but dammit he was going to follow his instincts to protect his pack as best he could.

He blinked as the drone scanned his face and told him, “Curtis Everett. You have been selected for courting by an Omega. You are to come with me to prepare. Your pack will be compensated with the credits you would have earned today at work.”

Curtis froze in place, mentally cursing the AI and its ever invasive data collection. He heard one of the pups behind him crying for him to not go but he knew they’d be hurt worse if he didn’t comply. 

He sighed heavily and asked, “can I say goodbye to my pack, first?”

“You have been granted 3 minutes to say goodbye for the day.”

Curtis turned back and did his best Alpha purr to comfort the pups. He also snuck his day’s rations into Yona’s pocket. He wasn’t sure he was going to need it and figured they definitely could. He said his goodbyes, not knowing if he’d ever see his pack again, and headed out with the drone.

Part 2