#really set the tone for my year thus far

[short666bread]

[rochenn]

The year is 2034. Disney announces the production of the show "Resistance: Dooku of Serenno", set during the early days of the Empire, starring CG Christopher Lee.

We begin with a flashback to Revenge of the Sith. After Dooku is beheaded, we learn that he used the Force to supply his brain with blood and oxygen. The movie is visibly retconned - as Obi-Wan, Anakin and Palpatine flee the Invisible Hand, four human parts can be spotted stealthily floating after them.

Dooku, being Dooku, survives the crash and manages to steal away. His head is surgically reattached. Don't ask why nobody else ever stitched their lightsaber-chopped limbs back on. He ends up getting prosthetic hands, anyway. David Filoni said in a behind-the-scenes interview that he thought they were cool.

Previously established canon prevents Dooku from doing anything in-character until Order 66. He lets loose in Coruscant's undercity and becomes the local kooky old man who couldn't possibly be public enemy number one until Mace Windu, freshly fried and unhanded, crashes down in front of him. What a coincidence.

Mace is still played by Sam L. Jackson. He is So Old. He is only there for the paycheck. Disney didn't know how to recast him. He is acting alongside the shell of a man who has been dead for two decades.

After a joke about missing hands that is very funny, the two get along swimmingly. They don't really talk about Dooku's various war crimes. "My droid army would never traumatize a young child," Dooku says with a wink into the camera. Remember to buy your Mandalorian merch.

Mace and Dooku organize an underground resistance on Coruscant in the spirit of the Confederacy. Mace is okay with this. Choice aspects of this arc are compelling, like the fight against fascism under the yoke of cruel state suppression, but tone-deaf allusions to the work of Sophie Scholl cause controversy abroad. Andor did it better. Critics on YouTube who thus far lauded the return of fan favorites and 'faithful casting' tear into the show for pushing the woke agenda.

Nothing Mace and Dooku accomplish has any impact on the Original Trilogy. What were you expecting? The end of the show teases a second season with the arrival of a mysterious woman. Dooku's secret wife. You never knew of her because she was never relevant before. As the final credit music slowly creeps in, she says: "Don't you want to see your son?"

The music swells and we cut to Serenno. The planet has never been mentioned throughout all 15 episodes of the show. Standing in the ruins of Dooku's castle is Dooku's son: back turned to the viewer, gazing into the sunset. Dooku II of Serenno, proud heir, turns his head. He is played by Harry Styles.

Roll credits.

[szariahwroteit]

Doll House: A Jude Bellingham + Original Character Erotic Series

18+ Minors DNI

Chapter 4

“Wrap your legs around me,” Jude said with a playful smirk, his hands firm yet gently gripping Tori’s hips. As he hoisted her effortlessly from the shimmering sea, he began to wade deeper into the cool, inviting water, the gentle waves lapping around them, creating a sense of exhilaration and intimacy.

“Please don't throw me in,” Tori smiled cautiously, her arms wrapping around Jude’s broad shoulders, tightening her hold on him. 

“I promise you I won’t,” Jude replied, his voice teasing yet reassuring. “But you have to trust me. Just enjoy the moment.”

Tori felt a rush of warmth spread through her as she looked into his eyes, the playful glint in them making her heart race. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue over the water, and the world around them felt like a dream. 

“Okay, okay,” she said, her laughter bubbling up as she adjusted her grip. “Just don’t let go!”

With a confident grin, Jude began to move deeper into the water, the waves splashing around them. Tori could feel the coolness of the sea against her skin, contrasting with the warmth radiating from Jude’s body. The sensation sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn’t help but giggle as the water splashed playfully against her.

“See? Not so bad, right?” Jude said, glancing back at her, his expression a mix of mischief and delight.

“Not bad at all!” Tori replied, her laughter ringing out as she felt the thrill of the moment. “But I still don’t trust you completely!”

“Fair enough,” he chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “But I promise, I’m a good swimmer. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

As they waded further into the water, Tori felt a sense of freedom wash over her. The worries of the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in this beautiful moment. She could feel the rhythm of the waves, the gentle sway of Jude’s body beneath her, and the warmth of the setting sun on her skin.

“Okay, but if you do throw me in, I’m getting you back,” Tori warned, her eyes narrowing playfully.

Jude laughed, the sound deep and rich. ”I’d rather kiss you,”

He said, his voice dropping to a more serious tone, the playful glint in his eyes replaced by something deeper. 

Tori felt her breath hitch at his words, her heart racing as she searched his gaze. The atmosphere shifted slightly, the playful banter giving way to a moment charged with unspoken tension. 

Leaning into him, Tori pressed her lips against Jude's, her eyes fluttering shut as she surrendered to the warmth of the moment. She felt the weight of his hand, firm yet gentle, as it slid from her hip to grip the back of her neck, fingers threading softly through her hair. His touch anchored her in place, intensifying the electricity between them as she melted into the kiss. 

Jude let out a moan of approval as he parted Tori’s lips with his tongue, slipping it into her mouth as he sought to explore her.

Dubai thus far had been nothing short of perfect and with only two days until the new year the city had already begun to buzz. 

While Jude had been stopped by fans and swarmed by cameras on a few occasions, he did his best to keep that side of his life away from Tori and she was beyond thankful for it. 

The more time she spent around Jude the more she understood how sought-after an athlete he was. Just how bright his star shined. 

“Easily one of my favourite pastimes,” Jude smirked against Tori’s lips. 

“What is?” she asked curiously. 

“Kissing you,” he added with a playful grin, his eyes glinting mischievously. 

Tori felt her cheeks flush at his words, a mix of embarrassment and exhilaration flooding through her. "You know, you really are quite the charmer," she teased, pulling back slightly to look at him, their foreheads almost touching. 

“Is it working?” Jude smirked.  

“I’d say,” Tori confirmed. “You got me out of my panties in the first forty-eight, and you spilled your drink on me,” she smiled teasingly. 

Jude burst into laughter, the sound echoing around them and mingling with the soft lapping of the waves. “Well, I must be doing something right then,” he said, his voice dripping with playful confidence. Tori rolled her eyes playfully, a smile tugging at her lips as she tried to suppress another giggle.

Leaning into her, Jude's tongue slipped playfully against her lips, reigniting the spark that had momentarily dimmed. Tori found herself lost in the kiss once more, the world around them fading away as they embraced the intimacy of the moment. 

“Okay, okay,” Tori said, pulling back slightly, her breath warm against his skin. “Can we please get back to the shore?”

Jude chuckled, his arms tightening around her momentarily before he nodded. "Alright, but only if you promise me one thing," he said, his eyes glinting with a troublesome energy.

“What’s that?” Tori asked, tilting her head, curiosity dancing in her gaze.

“Promise me that if I do throw you in, you won't be mad at me,” he replied with a playful grin.

Tori couldn't help but laugh. “I can't make any promises,”

With that, Jude began to make his way back to the shore with Tori in his arms. 

When they were back on dry land, Jude placed Tori back onto her feet, pressing a kiss to her forehead before he darted off to use the bathroom. 

Tori felt giddy as she made her way back to her seat, a lazy smile spread across her face as she walked along the hot sand. 

As she made her way back to her seat, Tori smiled politely as she passed two of Jude’s teammates who sat sun bathing. Her polite gesture went unnoticed by the two men who were engrossed in conversation, however, when she walked past them and overheard their conversation, her stomach flipped.  

“She is beautiful, but she's only here for convenience,” one of Jude teammates said, making the other he sat beside laugh before agreeing with his statement. 

“Likewise,” the other man said, shaking his head. “Last night I had to send mine back to her room after sex, I didn't care to hear what she had to say.”

Tori felt a cold wave of disappointment wash over her as she heard the words echo in her mind. She had been enjoying this blissful escape with Jude, but hearing those comments made her question the depth of their connection. Was she really just a fleeting distraction for him, a convenience in a city where he was the star? The warmth that had enveloped her moments ago began to fade into a chill of uncertainty.

Taking a deep breath, she forced herself to push the thoughts aside. Jude had been nothing but kind to her, and their time together had felt genuine. Yet, the seed of doubt had been planted, and she couldn’t ignore it. She needed to regroup, to find her footing again. 

As she approached the area where the other girls were sitting, she spotted a few familiar faces. They were laughing and chatting, the sun casting a warm glow on their sun-kissed skin. Tori hesitated for a moment before deciding to join them, hoping that their energy would lift her spirits.

“Hey, Tori! Come sit with us!” one of the girls called out, waving her over enthusiastically. Tori forced a smile and walked towards them, trying to shake off the lingering doubts.

“Hey, ladies!” Tori greeted, settling down on the soft sand beside them. “What are you all up to?”

“Just planning our New Year’s Eve outfits!” one of the girls said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Tori tried to match their enthusiasm, but her mind was still reeling from the comments she had overheard.

As the conversation continued, Tori listened intently, laughing at their jokes and sharing in their excitement. But a part of her couldn’t shake off the feeling of being on the outside, like she was in the same boat as the girls who were only here for a fleeting moment. She was starting to feel like maybe she was also just another notch on Jude’s bedpost.

“Do you know what you're wearing?” one girl asked, breaking Tori from her thoughts.

“If not, we could go shopping. Kylian promised me a shopping spree before I head back to Miami,” another chimed in, and they all laughed, the camaraderie palpable.

Tori had come to a startling realization: aside from one woman in their group, none of them shared a genuine bond with the men they were with. Their relationships seemed to be based solely on convenience and being rewarded for it, and this revelation left her feeling uneasy.

Politely excusing herself from the conversation, Tori strolled along the shoreline as attempted to clear her racing mind. 

Gentle waves washed over her feet as she absentmindedly played with the small gold rings that adorned her perfectly manicured fingers. 

Tori was lost in her thoughts, completely oblivious to Jude approaching her from behind. He gently rested his hand on the small of her back as he caught up with her. 

Tori jumped slightly at the unexpected touch, her thoughts snapping back to reality. She turned to face Jude, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Oh, hey,” she said, trying to shake off the fog of her earlier contemplation.

“Everything okay?” Jude asked, his brow furrowed in concern. He had been attentive to her since the moment they met, but despite this quality, Tori couldn't see past her insecure thoughts. 

“Yeah, just… thinking,” she replied, shrugging her shoulders as if to dismiss her unease. 

Jude nodded, but she could see the doubt in his eyes. “Can I walk with you?” he asked, smiling softly as he took her hand into his. 

Tori felt a warmth spread through her at the gesture, but it was quickly overshadowed by the weight of her thoughts. She appreciated Jude’s sincerity, yet the delicacy of their connection loomed large in her mind. 

“Sure,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper, as they began to walk slowly along the water’s edge. The rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the shore accompanied their silence, creating a soothing backdrop that contrasted with her inner turmoil.

“What’s on your mind?” Jude asked, glancing sideways at her, his eyes searching for a glimpse of the truth she was holding back. 

Tori hesitated, feeling the pull between wanting to share and the instinct to protect her vulnerabilities. “Just… something I overheard your teammate say, I guess,” she finally admitted.

Jude’s expression shifted; he turned to face her fully, concern etched on his features. “What was said?” 

“One of your teammates made a comment that the girl he brought to Dubai with him was purely for convenience…I hate to make something out of nothing, but it did get me thinking,” Tori said, her voice trailing off. She felt a knot tighten in her stomach as she tried to articulate her feelings. 

Jude frowned, processing her words. “I can see how that would bother you. It’s not really the kind of thing you want to hear, but I can assure you you're not just here for my convenience,” he explained, squeezing her hand for reassurance. 

Coming to a stop, he took hold of her other hand as he looked into her eyes, the soft breeze tousling her hair as his eyes traced over her. “I know I might not be the best at expressing it, but I genuinely enjoy every moment we spend together. You are here because I want you to be here—I want to get to know you. Not for convenience or sex.”

Jude felt a pang in his heart as he gazed at Tori's stunning face. She was undeniably beautiful, and it saddened him to imagine the struggles she must have faced in her past that led her to question her own worth.

In his experience, he'd given women the bare minimum, and that minimal effort had been enough for them to believe they were warranted a place in his life. Yet here Tori was, both beautiful and intriguing, questioning whether or not he truly valued her presence on this trip when she was who he wanted.

"In the most sincere way possible, I realize that being around someone like me might feel overwhelming, but I want you to understand how much I truly enjoy your presence and I want to continue learning about you," Jude explained. 

Beyond sex he enjoyed her company, she was smart, insightful and funny. He enjoyed sitting and learning about her as much as he did each time they were intimate.

Tori's heart raced as she processed Jude's words, his intense gaze locking her in place. The depth of his sincerity caught her off guard, momentarily eclipsing the swirling doubts in her mind. “You really mean that?” she asked her voice barely a whisper, vulnerability peeking through the cracks of her defences.

“Absolutely,” he replied, his tone steady and calm. “You’re not just a fling to me, Tori. I don’t want to just scratch an itch. I want to explore who you are. I want to share experiences with you, learn about your dreams, and understand you. It’s more than just physical.”

The sincerity in Jude’s eyes held her captive, and with each passing moment, it felt as if he was peeling back her layers. Tori felt the sun warming her skin, the gentle lapping of the waves caressing her feet, and as the cool sea breeze danced around them, a small part of her began to thaw. "I'm sorry for even bringing it to your attention," she confessed. “You’re supposed to be enjoying yourself.”

Jude shook his head gently, a reassuring smile playing on his lips. “No, don’t apologize. I’d rather you share what’s on your mind than keep it bottled up. I’m here to listen,” he said, his voice low and soft, yet laced with an intensity that made Tori's heart flutter.

He stepped closer, closing the distance between them just enough that she could feel his warmth radiating toward her. “Besides, I want to know everything that makes you, well, you,” Jude added, his eyes shining with a genuine exuberance that made her feel both cherished and exposed.

The weight of his gaze sent a shiver down her spine, and Tori felt a rush of emotions flood over her—relief, curiosity, a hint of something deeper that scared and excited her all at once.

“I’ve been trying to get to know you since I spilled my drink on you, all I need is for you to let me,” Jude continued, his voice a soft murmur as they stood inches apart. The sound of the waves grew distant, muffled by the quickening pulse in her ears. Tori felt time slow around them; the beautiful beach, the warm sun, the endless sky—all vanished as she focused solely on Jude.

Jude understood her apprehension, there were no clear bounds between them. Only a bond forged amid lust and desire. He understood how daunting the world of a celebrity could appear to someone on the outside looking in. 

As he stood before her, Jude could sense the weight of Tori's hesitation, the uncertainties swirling in her beautiful mind. He didn’t want to push her, but he felt a magnetic pull toward her—a profound connection that transcended mere physical attraction. “I know it can be intimidating, being close to someone who lives in the spotlight. But I want to make it clear that the reason I’m drawn to you is because of who you are, not because I think I can have my way with you.”

Tori swallowed hard, his words resonating with the hidden depths of her soul. She had spent much of her life hiding behind a veneer, afraid of being hurt or misunderstood.

She'd spent so much of her life putting her thoughts and feelings aside to accommodate others in relationships, her career, and even among her own flesh and blood, and she didn't know if she could continue in the same fashion with Jude.

“Jude, if you feel the same way as your teammates and that's what this is, I’d rather you tell me.” Jude's expression shifted to one of sincerity, a seriousness that made Tori's heart race. 

“Tori, I promise you, this isn’t that. I’m not them,” he said, his tone firm yet gentle. “What we have is only for us. I feel a connection with you that I want to explore,”

Tori felt her breath hitch again, her heart swelling with a mix of hope and fear. Could it be true? Was she really more than just a momentary distraction in his world?

“If anything changes, will you let me know?” Tori asked, her voice barely above a whisper, vulnerability spilling from her heart.

“Of course,” Jude replied, his expression softening. “I want to be open with you about everything. Although I doubt anything will make me stop liking you.”

Tori felt a wave of relief wash over her, mingling with the flutter of excitement in her chest. Jude’s words resonated deep within her, dispelling the doubts that had begun to creep in. “Thank you,” she said softly, her eyes searching for any hint of deceit, but all she found was sincerity and warmth.

“I just want you to enjoy your time here, Tori,” Jude continued, a smile breaking across his face. “We’ve got two days until the new year, and I want them to be memorable for both of us.”

“And I want that too,” Tori admitted, a genuine smile emerging on her lips. “I’ve had such an amazing time with you so far.”

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Tori and Jude made their way back to their hotel, the air still warm with the lingering heat of the day. The tension that had been clouding Tori's mind began to lift, replaced by a renewed sense of hope. Jude’s sincerity had grounded her, and she felt lighter in his presence.

After a quick shower and changing into something more suitable for an evening out, Tori stood in front of the mirror, her heart racing with anticipation. She chose a fitted black dress that hugged her curves in all the right places, the hem flaring slightly as it grazed her thighs. She applied just a touch of makeup, enhancing her natural beauty, and as she finished, she caught her reflection—confident and excited.

Just as she finished, Jude knocked on the door. “You ready?” he called out, his voice warm and inviting.

“Almost!” Tori replied, quickly spritzing herself with a light floral perfume before heading to the door. When she opened it, Jude stood before her, dressed in a casual outfit that consisted of a crisp white t-shirt, jeans and sneakers, that accentuated his athletic build.

“You look beautiful,” he smiled as his hand found her hip. 

Tori felt her cheeks flush at his compliment, a shy smile spreading across her face. “Thank you! You look pretty good yourself,” she replied, her heart racing at the sight of him. The way he looked at her, with that intense gaze, made her feel like the only person in the room.

“Ready to make some memories?” Jude asked, his excitement infectious as he offered her his arm. Tori nodded, slipping her hand through the crook of his elbow, feeling a thrill of anticipation as they stepped out into the warm Dubai night.

Taking the elevator only one floor down, Jude led Tori towards his teammate's suite where a small gathering was already underway. The laughter and chatter grew louder as they approached, and Tori could feel a mix of nerves and excitement bubbling within her. She had already met some of Jude's teammates, but this would be her first time socializing with the larger group, and she wanted to make a good impression.

“Don’t worry,” Jude said, sensing her apprehension as he opened the door to the suite. “They’re all cool.” 

As they stepped inside, Tori was greeted by the lively atmosphere. The room was filled with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. Jude's teammates were gathered around a table, drinks in hand, animatedly discussing something. The air was thick with camaraderie, and Tori felt a spark of excitement.

As the party progressed, drinks flowed freely, and the laughter became louder. Tori found herself chatting with a couple of the girls who had come along with the guys, sharing stories and getting to know each other better. Jude stayed close, occasionally joining their conversations, but it was clear that the atmosphere was getting more playful as the night went on.

“Alright, alright!” one of Jude’s teammates shouted over the music, drawing everyone’s attention. “It's time for a little fun! Jude, you know the rules: it’s not a party until someone gets a lap dance!”

The group erupted in cheers, and Tori felt her heart race. She glanced at Jude, who was shaking his head, a hint of amusement in his expression. “No way,” he said, laughing. “I’m not doing that!”

“Oh, come on!” Max insisted, his eyes gleaming with mischief. “You can’t back down now! You’re the star! You can’t let the others show you up.”

The playful challenge hung in the air, and Tori felt a mix of apprehension and curiosity. She wasn’t sure how she felt about the idea of Jude being put on the spot like this, but there was a part of her that wanted to see how they would handle it.

Taking a step back, Tori watched as the scene unfolded before her. Jude was forced into a seat before a woman who had been dancing nearby, her confidence radiating as she approached him with a playful smirk. The group fell silent, the anticipation thick in the air. Tori could feel the heat rising within her as she watched the scene unfold.

The woman, dressed in a fitted top and shorts that left little to the imagination, swayed her hips as she approached Jude. Her laughter was infectious, and even he couldn't help but chuckle at the predicament he found himself in.

Jude crossed his arms, trying to feign indifference, but there was a sparkle in his eyes that betrayed his enjoyment. “Alright, just this once,” he conceded, letting out a mock sigh. The crowd erupted into cheers again, creating a whirlwind of energy around them.

Tori couldn’t take her eyes off Jude as he settled into the chair, his strong frame relaxed yet alert, ready for whatever was coming his way. The music switched to something sultry, and the woman leaned in closer, taking a seat on his lap.

The moment was light-hearted and somewhat amusing, but the smile dropped from Tori’s face as the woman pulled down her top to reveal her breast, making the room erupt as she took hold of Jude’s wrist, guiding his hands to her chest, leaning back against him as she whispered something in his ear.

This was her boiling point; her cup had runneth over. A combination of the all-too-casual comment made by Jude’s teammate, the way the world seemed to bend to his will and women flocked to him, and worst of all, her self-doubt.

Silently making her way out of the bustling hotel suite, Tori couldn't stop her eyes from filling with tears as she meandered through the crowd of party-goers, laughter and music fading into a blur around her. 

The dim lighting and pulsing rhythm of the music, which had felt so inviting moments before, now only added to her sense of isolation. Each chuckle that rang out made her heart clench tighter, each flirtation that she witnessed felt like a dagger.

Tori stepped out into the corridor and towards the elevator so she could head upstairs to her hotel room, a sanctuary she desperately needed. As the elevator doors slid shut, blocking out the sounds of the party, she inhaled deeply, trying to steady her racing heart. In the confined space, the fluorescent lights felt harsh against her skin, intensifying her emotions.

She pressed the button for her floor, watching the lights blink out as the elevator ascended. Each ping sounded like a countdown to her solitude. The moment the doors opened, she rushed down the hallway, her heels clicking rhythmically against the polished floor.

“Fuck,” Tori hissed as she remembered that she'd asked Jude to put her room key in his pocket. Wrapping her arms around herself she felt her lip begin to tremble, her vision blurring as she stood stationary. 

Tori leaned against the cool wall of the hallway, her emotions battling within her like a storm. The laughter echoing in her head from the party downstairs felt like it belonged to another world—one where she didn’t belong, stifled by her insecurities. 

Taking a breath, she attempted to calm the whirlwind inside her. She had thought tonight would be fun after their conversation on the beach. She had envisioned moments with Jude filled with playful banter and connection, but now it felt like she had lost him to the chaos, to a life he was accustomed to as a celebrity of his magnitude. 

The clicking of heels made Tori’s breath hitch and she instantly attempted to make herself small as she turned to face the door, hoping whoever it was wouldn't pay her any mind. 

“I see you have shoes on now,” a rather deep and somewhat smooth voice broke through her thoughts. Tori looked up, her heart racing as she recognized it to be the same man she’d spoken to the night before. 

He stood there, leaning casually against the wall, concern etched onto his face as he took in her teary state. Tori felt a mix of embarrassment as she swiftly wiped the tears from beneath her eyes. 

“Are you okay?” he asked cautiously. 

His voice was gentle, almost a whisper as if he were afraid that speaking too loudly might shatter the fragile moment. 

Tori took a shaky breath, trying to compose herself. “Yeah, I’m fine,” she managed to say, though the tremor in her voice betrayed her. She avoided his gaze, focusing instead on the floor, where the glossy tiles reflected her dishevelled appearance. 

“Doesn’t look like it,” he replied, stepping closer. He had an aura of sincerity that made her feel oddly safe, despite the turmoil raging inside her. “You can talk to me if you want. Or… I can just keep you company until you feel better. Your choice.”

A part of her wanted to retreat further into herself, to shut down and wallow in the emotions that had overwhelmed her. But another part, the part that craved connection, urged her to accept his offer. 

She found herself nodding slowly, her heart beating a little faster as she glanced up at him.

“I'm locked out of my room, the man I'm with has my key, but I don't want to see him right now,” she replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper as a single tear slipped from her eye. 

“I don't think I'm in any place to give you relationship advice, but I might be able to help you get back into your room,” he smiled softly, looking past her beautiful, soft features to see a woman who was so obviously hurt. 

“My phone is just down the hall in my suite, I can get it and have someone bring a replacement for you.” Tori felt a wave of gratitude wash over her at his suggestion. It was a simple offer, but it felt monumental at the moment. She nodded, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand, and managed a small smile. 

“That would be nice, thank you.” She looked up at him, the kindness in his expression easing some of the tension coiling within her. “I’m Tori, by the way.”

“Nice to meet you, Tori. I’m Alex,” he said, extending his hand for a shake. His grip was firm yet warm, a stark contrast to the chill she felt lingering in her chest. 

“Nice to meet you too,” she replied, feeling a bit more grounded. “I appreciate this. I didn’t mean to be a mess in the hallway.”

“Hey, everyone has their moments. You’re allowed to feel however you feel,” he said, his voice calm and reassuring. “Let’s go grab my phone, and then we can figure this out.”

With a deep breath, Tori nodded again, feeling a flicker of hope amidst the emotions swirling inside of her. Following behind Alex, the heels of their shoes both clicked against the floors as she trailed behind him. 

Tori knew this wasn't one of her brighter moments, but she pushed the thought aside as she followed Alex. Once they reached the end of the hall, he stopped, turning to look at Tori before stuffing his hand into his pocket to retrieve his room key. 

“Here we are,” he said, inserting the key into the lock and pushing the door open. The room was dimly lit, the soft glow of lamps casting a warm ambience that felt inviting. Tori hesitated at the threshold, feeling a mix of gratitude and vulnerability. “Come on in,” Alex encouraged, gesturing for her to enter. “I promise I won’t bite.”

Tori stepped inside, the plush carpet cushioning her feet as she took in the room. It was tastefully decorated, with modern furnishings and a view of the city skyline through the large window. She felt a momentary sense of calm wash over her, a stark contrast to the turmoil she had just experienced.

“Let me grab my phone,” Alex said, moving toward the small desk in the corner. Tori stood awkwardly by the door, unsure of what to do with herself. She could hear the muffled sounds of the party still going on outside, laughter and music blending into a distant hum.

“Do you want some water or anything?” Alex asked, glancing back at her. “You look like you could use it.”

“Water would be great, thank you,” Tori replied, her voice steadier now. She watched as he moved to the mini-fridge, pulling out a bottle and handing it to her. Their fingers brushed briefly, sending a small jolt of electricity through her.

“For you,” he said, his smile warm and genuine. “Take your time. I’ll just grab my phone and make a quick call.”

Tori took a sip of the water, feeling the coolness soothe her parched throat. She leaned against the wall, allowing herself a moment to breathe and collect her thoughts. The earlier chaos felt like a distant memory, and Alex’s presence was surprisingly comforting.

As he dialled a number, she couldn’t help but observe him. There was something about his demeanour—calm, collected, and genuinely kind—that made her feel at ease. He seemed to have a way of cutting through the noise, grounding her in the moment.

“Hey, it’s me,” Alex said into the phone, his tone professional yet relaxed. “I need you to do me a favour. Can you bring a spare key to room 312? There’s a guest who’s locked out.” He paused, listening intently. “Yeah, thanks. I appreciate it.”

After hanging up, he turned back to Tori, a satisfied smile on his face. “All set. They’ll be here in a few minutes.”

“Thank you so much,” Tori said, her heart swelling with gratitude. “I didn’t expect anyone to help me like this, you certainly didn't have to.” 

“These places are kinda the family business, I have to give our guests a reason to want to return.”Tori chuckled softly, appreciating his lightheartedness. 

“Family business?” she repeated. 

“My father owns this hotel and a few others across Europe, however, this location and this specific view happens to be my favourite,” Alex explained softly as he unbuttoned his blazer, pulling it from his body so he could hang it over the back of a chair. 

Tori's curiosity was piqued as she listened to him speak. “Wow, that’s impressive. I can see why you’d have a soft spot for it. The view is amazing.” She moved closer to the window, gazing out at the city lights glimmering like stars against the night sky. 

“Yeah, it is,” Alex replied, joining her at the window. “There’s something about seeing the city from this height that makes you feel alive, don’t you think?”

Tori nodded, her previous insecurities momentarily forgotten as she shared this moment with him, a kind stranger. “It’s beautiful. It makes me feel…small in a good way if that makes sense.”

He turned to her, his expression thoughtful. “It makes perfect sense. Sometimes we need that perspective to realize that the things weighing us down don’t matter as much in the grand scheme of things.”

Tori glanced at him, surprised by the depth of his words. There was an unexpected wisdom in his demeanour, a maturity that went hand in hand with the poise and confidence that he exuded.

Downstairs, Jude found himself at the conclusion of an impromptu lap dance from a woman whose name he didn't know and who would likely slip from his memory just as quickly as she appeared. 

The dimly lit room pulsated with a vibrant energy, the sounds of laughter and chatter blending with the pulsating beat of the music that filled the air. 

As he slowly rose to his feet, a relaxed smile crept across his face, illuminated by the colourful lights that flickered around him. He scanned the crowd, searching for Tori amidst the lively crowd, ready to fall back into the bubble of intimacy they'd created for themselves. 

But as he surveyed the room, an unsettling feeling settled in his stomach. Tori was nowhere to be found. The laughter and joy surrounding him felt hollow in her absence.

“Hey, Jude!” one of his teammates called out, clapping him on the back. “Are you ready for another drink?”

Jude forced a smile, but his mind was elsewhere. “Yeah, just give me a second,” he replied, stepping away from the group. 

He made his way to the bar, hoping to catch a glimpse of Tori somewhere in the crowd, but it was as if she had vanished.

Reaching into his back pocket he pulled out his phone and quickly scrolled through his contacts, searching for Tori's number. His thumb hovered over her name, hesitating as thoughts raced through his mind.

He took a deep breath, shaking off the doubts. She deserved to know that he was looking for her, that he cared. He pressed the call button, heart pounding as he brought the phone to his ear.

The ringing sounded louder than the music, each tone a reminder of how much he needed her. But after the third ring, it went to voicemail and his stomach dropped.

Briskly making his way towards the exit of the sprawling hotel suite, Jude stepped into a long hallway, looking up and down to see if he spotted Tori. 

The hallway was dimly lit, and the music from the party faded into a distant thrum behind him. Jude’s heart raced as he called out her name softly, “Tori?” The sound echoed back, swallowed by the silence surrounding him. 

He pushed through the door leading to the entryway of the suite, scanning the bustling crowd for any sign of her. The laughter and chatter around him only amplified his sense of urgency and panic. Where could she have gone? 

“Jude!” Eduardo approached, drink in hand, oblivious to the turmoil swirling in Jude’s mind. “You good? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Have you seen Tori?” Jude asked, cutting him off. “She was right here earlier…” His voice trailed off as he gestured to the now-empty space beside him.

His teammate shrugged, glancing around. “I thought she was with you. The last time I saw her we were all watching you get a lap dance,” he smiled knowingly. 

“Do you think that's why she left?” Jude asked, his heart sinking further. The thought that Tori might have felt humiliated or overshadowed by the spectacle gnawed at him.

Eduardo shook his head, a nonchalant frown replacing his smile. “I didn’t notice. But do you really care? There are so many girls here.”

Jude felt a blood-chilling wave wash over him, sending a sharp pang of sorrow through his heart for Tori. He recalled the unease flickering in her eyes when she told him she had overheard Eduardo's careless remark earlier that day.

Exiting the hotel room for a second time, Jude ignored the calls of his teammate as he made his way towards the elevator, checking his pocket to see if he still had her room key. 

He felt a surge of determination. He had to find her and make sure she was okay. The elevator doors opened, and he stepped inside, pressing the button for her floor. As the elevator ascended, he ran through a mental checklist of where she might be. 

The thought of her feeling abandoned or upset gnawed at him, and he cursed himself for not being more attentive.

When the doors opened, Jude rushed out, his heart pounding as he approached Tori's room. The hallway was quiet, and he felt a pang of dread settling in his chest. He knocked softly on her door but was met with silence.

“Tori?” he called, his voice strained with worry. He knocked again, louder this time, his impatience growing. Still, there was no response.

Just as he was about to give up hope, he heard the faint sound of laughter from down the hall. He turned to see her walking towards him accompanied by a woman dressed in the hotel's uniform, and another man he'd never seen before. 

Tori looked a little more composed than she had before, but the light in her eyes seemed dimmed. Jude's heart raced as he took in the scene. She was smiling, but it didn't reach her eyes, and that made him uneasy. The man beside her had an easy, confident demeanor, and the sight of him standing close to Tori made a knot form in Jude's stomach.

“Tori!” he called, stepping closer, his voice cutting through the murmur of the hallway. She turned at the sound of his voice, and for a brief moment, their eyes locked. 

“Jude,” she replied, a hint of surprise in her tone. The man beside her glanced between the two of them, clearly assessing the situation. It went to the out saying he knew exactly who Jude was, it was seldom that a man of his stature went unnoticed. 

“Everything okay?” Jude asked, his eyes darting to Tori’s face, searching for any signs of distress. He felt a surge of protectiveness wash over him as he noticed the way the stranger stood close, his presence a stark contrast to the vulnerability Tori had shown before.

“Yeah, just… waiting for a spare key,” Tori said, her voice steadying as she gestured toward the hotel staff member beside her. “This is Alex. He was helping me out.”

“Nice to meet you,” Jude said, offering a quick, rather dismissive nod, though he couldn’t shake the feeling of jealousy creeping into his chest. “I was looking for her. I didn’t know where she went.”

Alex stepped forward slightly, his demeanor calm and collected. “Tori was feeling a little upset and overwhelmed at whatever happened between you, so I offered to help her get back into her room. We’ve been waiting for the spare key to arrive.”

“I’ve got it from here,” Jude interjected, the words slipping out before he could think them through. The tension in the air thickened as he shot a glance at Alex, his expression stern. “Tori, are you okay?” 

Tori hesitated, the warmth of Alex’s presence fading as she turned her gaze between the two men. “I’m okay, really. I was upset and Alex was just being nice. I didn’t want to go back to the party, that’s all.”

Jude’s heart sank at her words. “You shouldn’t have had to feel that way in the first place. I’m sorry for how things went down back there.” His voice softened as he looked directly into her eyes, hoping to convey his sincerity.

Tori felt a mix of emotions swirling within her as she met Jude's earnest gaze. His apology hit her like a wave, and she could see the concern etched on his face. It was a stark contrast to the chaotic scene she had just escaped from.

“Jude, it’s not just about tonight,” she said, her voice trembling slightly as she tried to explain. “I guess I just feel…”

“Can we talk about this somewhere more private?” Jude asked, growing annoyed with the presence of Tori’s new friend Alex. 

Tori nodded, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on her. “Yeah, of course,” she replied, her heart racing as she glanced at Alex, who seemed to sense the shift in the air.

“Thanks for your help, Alex,” Jude said, his tone more clipped than he intended. “I think we’re good from here.” 

Alex raised an eyebrow but nodded in understanding. “No problem. I hope everything works out for you both,” he said, giving Tori a reassuring smile before stepping back. 

As the hotel staff member approached with the spare key, Tori accepted it with a murmured thanks, her mind racing. She turned to Jude, who was already watching her intently, concern etched deep in his features. 

“Let’s go inside,” she suggested, unlocking the door and stepping into her room. The moment they were alone, Tori felt the familiar sense of safety wash over her, but it was tinged with uncertainty as she faced Jude.

He closed the door behind them, and they stood in the dimly lit room, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavily in the air. Tori felt a rush of emotions—relief, anxiety, and a flicker of hope that they could navigate through this together.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Jude asked, his voice low and filled with concern as he took a step closer to her. “I saw you with Alex, and I wasn’t sure what to think.”

Tori took a breath, trying to gather her thoughts. “I was feeling overwhelmed, Jude. I didn’t expect to see you with someone else so… carefree. I guess I let my insecurities get the best of me tonight.”

Jude’s expression softened as he processed her words. “I had no idea that you felt that way, Tori. I should have checked in with you. I’m sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable or overlooked.”

Tori shook her head, her heart racing at the vulnerability they were sharing. “It’s not just you. It’s me too. I’ve been struggling with my own feelings, and seeing you surrounded by so many people, all of them drawn to you… I felt small and out of place.”

Jude’s heart ached at her confession, the weight of her words pressing down on him. He never intended for Tori to feel that way, and the thought of her feeling isolated in a crowd made his stomach churn. “I never wanted you to feel that way. You’re not small, Tori. You’re incredible, and I’m sorry if I made you feel otherwise,” he said earnestly, stepping closer to her.

Tori glanced up, searching his eyes for sincerity. “It’s just… this is your world, I may have been naive to think I could fit in so easily. I like being around you, but sometimes it feels like I’m an outsider looking in.”

Jude shook his head at her words. “Tori, you belong here. You belong with me,” he said firmly, taking another step closer, closing the distance between them. 

“It’s not about the parties or the crowd, or who I am to everyone else; it’s about us. I care about you, and I want you to feel comfortable being around me, no matter where we are.” he continued. 

“What if I don't know how to be?” 

[juniperdugong]

hello! can i req for a short bf!shua fic wherein yn has been sick for days and shua takes care of her and it kinda overwhelms her bec it was her first time being taken care of like that by other person (she’s used to being alone & shua just love her so much huhu) thank you! 🤍

Here Now - Joshua Hong

WC: 1k || Genre: Fluff, Hurt/Comfort, Angst (?) || Lover boy Joshua Hong is in the house!!

A/N: I'm not gonna tell y'all what to do but...you maybe totally should envision this to "Lean On Me" (aka my favoritest SVT song ever)

It's been days since you've gotten up from the comfy nest you created for yourself on your bed. Wrapped up in blankets and snuggling pillows like a newborn monkey.

You hadn't gotten sick like this in forever, it's very possible that you haven't been this sick in your entire life actually. You've been calling out of work for days and any movements made past the kitchen or the bathroom were futile attempts that would leave you hurling.

So all in all, you're extremely lucky to have Joshua by your side. Bringing you meals, making you meals, making sure you're taking medicine, he even took a few days off to make sure that if you needed him he was there.

Which, if you were being honest, made you feel even more sick.

It's not like the attention wasn't appreciated...no! You loved the way that Shua loved. You really truly did! It's rare that fights ever caused wedges between you because he was always so good with communication. He was always keen on making sure that you knew that he was yours and only yours, calling every single night on tour and planning dates like it was his job. Shua was - just as he's boasted about all these years - a gentleman.

But you'd be lying if you didn't acknowledge that this didn't feel right, that him taking care of you felt comfortable. It was anything but.

You can take care of yourself and you have for many many years. So when Shua started to bring over food, made sure to set alarms to remind you to take medicine, and spend nights at your place - it's fair to say that you felt suffocated? Or it's more like you didn't want to take up his time.

Joshua is busy. You've always known him to be extremely hard-working, not only in your relationship but also in his professional life. And it's not like you ever minded, in fact, you enjoy being alone. It's just how life has turned out for you thus far, in ways, being alone is much more comfortable than being surrounded by others constantly.

When you'd gotten together it was pretty out of the ordinary. It's not like you're polar opposites but Shua is so outgoing, friendly, and sociable - it astonished you how kind he was to everyone. To be able to call him your boyfriend seems a bit like a privilege. And it only made it that much harder to accept this kind of care.

"You don't have to do all this Shua."

"Hmm? What do you mean?" He stares at you from the edge of the best where he's sitting, the thermometer still in his hand as he had just checked your temperature.

"I mean take time off and stuff. You don't have to do this for me."

Utterly confused he keeps quiet, placing the thermometer on the nightstand. He's always been good about letting other people have the space to speak.

"I know you're trying to be nice...but I can do stuff myself. You don't have to dote on me." He's letting you finish your speech but as you look into his eyes you can see he's readying himself to refute. "I know you're busy-"

"No." His tone is so stern that it scares you.

"Josh-" You nervously rub your hands together but Shua is quick to hold your palms in his.

"I'm not busy, y/n. I'm not busy when it comes to you."

"That's the thing Shua! You really shouldn't feel like you need to do any of this just because I'm your partner or out of any obligations...." He sees the guilty look on your face as you stare down at your intertwined fingers.

He scoffs, "Yeah and you shouldn't feel like you're a burden to me because I'm your partner." He rolls his eyes with a smile but you're completely blown away by the statement. "Seriously...you act like we're not gonna recite the words "through sickness and health" one day."

"Yeah but you have so much going on- I've taken care of myself for forever so it's really okay for me to continue to do so. I haven't had the kind of support you do, y'know? I've grown accustomed to being alone and doing things alone..." You take a big breath and let it out, letting the weight glide off your shoulders. "I just don't want to be another thing you think you have to worry about."

He's looking at you with the biggest stupidest doe eyes, taking in every single word you say. It only makes your heart pound more and not in any sort of lovesick manner, but in embarrassment of the situation.

"You're so...frustrating sometimes y/n."

Dumbfounded at the jab your face screws up in disbelief of his words...it feels like your world could come crashing down right now. Maybe you just shouldn't have said anything-

"I know you've done things all on your own. You're literally one of the strongest people I know. It's one of my favorite qualities about you. You're independent, reliable, and so- Just- Ugh!" He facepalms. "I know all of this about you - you're so perfect and it breaks my heart that you would ever think you could be any sort of problem for me. I'm here for you. Yes, you've learned to go through it all alone and take care of yourself. But that doesn't mean that you have to do that...especially not anymore."

You don't know if it would be more appropriate to cry or smile in this situation so you resolve to just holding him as close as you can. You can feel as tears begin to gather but you hold yourself together -although, now you know that he wouldn't mind if you let it all go.

"It worries me so much that you feel like you can't lean on me." He rests in the crook of your neck and speaks against your skin.

"Just rest now, babe. Look your temp is already a lot better than yesterday." He separates from you and holds the thermometer up as proof, "Rest. I'm here now and I refuse to let you go through life alone!" That goofy smile that had you fallen head over heels for adorns his face.

*RING RING RING* "Medicine alarm..." He presses a kiss to your cheek. Yeah, you're really lucky to have Joshua.

A/N: Crying, I love him, Mom!! Also, I'm so sorry this took so much longer to write than I expected. I was out of ideasssss and dialogue was so rough to come up with for this one. (lowkey might wake up tmrw and feel so shit abt the dialogue ;-;) But thank you for requesting @honglynights !! I hope you enjoy! Please Reblog and Comment if you enjoyed ! (They act as power-ups for me)

Taglist (OPEN): @bemybabiibish @bath1lda

[pointlesschairjokes]

A Needlessly In depth Analysis of the Hypnos Subplot thus far

So, the new update is out and my sleepy boy has gotten his own story moment. I have... concerns. Going purely off of dialog I'm worried the subplot is going to simply be comic relief. The joke set-up has been obvious. Mel thinks Hypnos is wise and powerful, everyone else is being sarcastic because they know he's a lazy goof. Hypnos wakes up, Mel's image of him is shattered, cue laughter. On the one hand, I would personally find that resolution disappointing because I'd like to see more done with his character, but on the other, I hold out hope because a purely comedic subplot just wouldn't make sense. I've seen comments here and there saying Hypnos must just be conked out cause Hades and Nyx aren't there to scold him, and if this were to be pure comedy that'd probably be the case. But, if there is one thing Hades 1 makes clear, even if you interpret Hypos' character in the shallowest possible way, he cares very deeply for those he loves. When he drops his cheerful tone to ask Than to spend more time with him, it is distinct, and he nearly tears up calling Zag his best friend. I simply do not buy that he would choose to sleep for years when it means being separated from his friends and family. But then again, the first games treatment of him was just a bit odd. The only time him being the god of sleep is relevant is a single line of flashback narration where we learn he's able to put the entire house, including Hades, to sleep. For the rest of the game no character acknowledges that it makes sense for the god of sleep to be sleepy, and his keepsake, the coin purse, has nothing to do with his aspect or his character. I really hope the subplot goes in a direction of addressing that disconnect. So as to what we actually have so far: the dream scene. A lot of what we see is fairly easy to interpret, Than is there resting close to Hypnos, Hypnos is surrounded by massive stacks of work with an angry Hades looming in the background. Now this is a bit interesting, as in the first game Hypnos appears oblivious to Hades anger in his interactions with him. Perhaps this is evidence that some of that cheeriness is a defense mechanism, its hard to say, but its clear that Hypnos feels overworked. I feel its also important that Mel remarks how unusual it is that he is still asleep inside the dream. Given that, and given that there's a craftable item involved, I suspect that the scenery of the dream is going to be different each time Mel uses the dream vapors. There may even be a puzzle involving the character cutouts. As for why Hypnos is asleep, its still unclear. Could it be exhaustion due to overwork? Possibly, although it wouldn't be the most satisfying answer. I'm actually a bit reluctant to say its Chronos' doing. None of his magic seems to operate in a way that would make sense in Hypnos' case. I'll throw out one wild theory though, that its actually the Fates who have put him to sleep. We know from the prophecy list that Mel is going to locate them at some point in the story, and thus far its completely unclear how. If she can communicate with them in dreams however... What could be a better ace in the hole than a god who not only is underestimated by everyone, but who's also in an 'eternal' slumber?

[little-emerald-snake]

Blackmail - Ominis Gaunt X F!MC

🔥 NSFW 🔞 MDNI

scene is f!mc during the shadow of friendship quest where she needs to talk Ominis out of telling on Sebastian to be committed to Azkaban BUT instead of the soft reaction we get in-game what if Ominis has actually harbored deep desires for the mc until now and since he's aware that she has feelings for Sebastian instead, uses this opportunity to "blackmail" the mc into convincing him to not put Sebastian away. so really a non-con scene of dark!ominis x f!mc if you will requested by @moongurl95 via dms

Genuinely so sorry this took me like three weeks but my life is in shambles literally setting this up to post while sheltering from a tornado 💀 but don’t worry I’m fine. Anyway I hope this is what you’re looking for 🫶🏻

Warnings: blackmail, threats, dirty talk, non-con, Dominis, stolen virginity, unprotected sex, creampie

2.4k words

She stood beside Sebastian who paced the stone floor beside his blonde companion. The air in the undercroft hung heavier than ever around them. Ominis was being brutally honest, telling Sebastian that his twin, Anne, couldn’t bear the thought of turning him in. Sebastian was a bit shocked, pacing back and forth while trying to defend himself before Ominis finally gave a sigh, saying he’d give Sebastian some time to think.

As he walked away Sebastian resumed his nervous pacing and she approached him, laying a hand on his shoulder. “I can’t believe he’s gone. How did things go so wrong? I didn’t mean it. I didn’t mean to-“ He shook his head in dismay. “Oh Anne. I was only trying to help. I can’t leave now. Anne needs me more than ever.”

She nodded, her head felt full of confusion and worry but she’d grown to care for Sebastian and couldn’t imagine that he’d truly wanted to hurt anyone. She knew the lengths he was willing to go for Anne. That kind of love and devotion spoke to her. “Don't worry Sebastian. I shall speak with Ominis.”

Sebastian breathed a sigh of relief. “Thank you. You’re a real friend, truly. No matter what happens from here, I’m glad we met.” With that he turned and walked to the exit of the Undercroft. She waited till the doors chimed and she heard him exit before she turned with a sigh toward Ominis.

She could practically sense the dark cloud looming over the other side of the undercroft and a sort of unease rolled over her. This wasn’t going to be an easy conversation. Ominis had sensed her approach and decided to tell her what had happened after they’d spoken last. He’d run back to Hogwarts and before he’d been able to speak to the headmaster Anne had contacted him. He’d rushed to Feldcroft and found Anne with Solomon’s body. How deeply stricken with grief she was. “I don’t want to lose Sebastian but I don’t think we have a choice.”

She chewed her bottom lip with a worried expression. “Ominis…we do have a choice. What good would it do now to turn him in? He clearly regrets everything. He’s not going to do anything like this again.”

Ominis’ eyes darkened. “What makes you so sure? You’ve said that about nearly everything else thus far? You said letting him into the scriptorium wasn’t going to end badly yet he casted Crucio on you without a moment's hesitation. You promised the relic wouldn't cause harm yet he was ready to throw our entire friendship away just to take it with him.”

She looked down. He was right. Everything he’d said had been true. Yet she had grown fond of Sebastian both as a friend and maybe more over the span of their year. “Ominis I know how this seems but Sebastian isn’t like this. He made a mistake…it was for Anne’s life.”

Ominis’ tone turned angry, the same scowl that first day she’d come from the Undercroft painted his features as he took a step toward her. “He’s got you wrapped around his finger…he used you…and you don’t even seem to care?! You’d rather blindly ignore the damage he’d caused to make him the hero in your book because you’ve begun to harbor feelings for him haven’t you?”

She was about to deny it but what was the point? Ominis had so clearly seen through everything and while she hated to admit it, he wasn’t wrong. “I…suppose I have. I just want the best for him and Anne…it makes no sense to send him away now when Anne will be needing her brother the most.”

Ominis’ scowl darkened. “I see. So are you willing to accept the punishment for his actions? You’re an accomplice to murder if you choose to continue down this path. If he continues on the way he is I will not hesitate to turn you both in for these crimes.”

She blinked, honestly shocked about what he’d said. But she truly believed that Sebastian was good deep down. He just let this get away from him. “Yes. I understand. I promise. He won’t cause anymore trouble. Just don’t take him from Anne.”

He agreed begrudgingly, taking another step forward. She backed up a step, bumping into a stack of crates with a gasp. His voice came out dark and low. “So you are the kind of girl who falls for the villain then?”

Her eyes widened in surprise as her head whipped back around, his tone dark and a bit husky. His palm came up to rest on the crate right beside her face, his body pushing closer. “What are you willing to give up to ensure I don’t turn you and Sebastian in? What price would you pay for a life that’s already been stained in blood?”

The knot in her throat solidified and it felt like she had mouthfuls of sawdust she had to swallow in order to form words. “Ominis, w-what are you talking about…we don’t have to give up anything…we just don’t tell anyone…”

Ominis chuckled darkly, shaking his head. “I’m well aware darling. I asked what you were willing to give up in order to keep me quiet. This deal has nothing in it for me. You and Sebastian get away with murder and I’m stuck holding the truth for nothing while you both run off and fall in love. Hardly fair if you ask me.”

Her eyes widened and she suddenly understood what was happening. She moved to run but his hand, much stronger than she’d imagined, came up to hold her wrist, wrenching and pinning it above her head, shortly joined by her other. “Now now, no running away from your problems anymore. You need to come up with a solution I’ll accept or you won’t be leaving here. You better get thinking before I decide for you.”

Her mind reeled over what she could offer him. What did he want? She thought and thought but nothing came to mind. He grinned darkly. “My choice then. I can work with that.”

He moved quickly, spinning her and bending her over a crate. She gasped, surprised by the suddenness as the wood bit into her hip bones. His surprisingly strong body pinned her down with ease, one hand holding her wrists above her head while the other worked at pulling up her school skirts. “Tell me darling, are you currently taking contraceptive potions?”

Her heart pounded in her chest. Her body had the choice of fight or flight and for some bloody reason it had chosen to freeze. “I-I no…why would I-?”

He’d laughed, cutting her off while pulling her underwear to the side. “Well you better start my dear. Because if you manage to conceive I’ll ruin your pathetic life. As a Gaunt I refuse to carry forward the bloodline.”

She listened to the sound of his belt being undone and blood whooshed in her ears. She knew the time to speak up was now but she was still at a loss for words. She couldn’t very well deny him after he’d made the threat to turn her and Sebastian in. She had to stay quiet and take it, if not for herself and Sebastian’s innocence than for Anne still having a relative to care for her.

She pressed her face to the crate, tears welling in her eyes. “O-okay. I-I won’t let that happen.” She listened to him as he hummed in satisfaction and she listened to the shuffle of his pants as he pushed them down. She felt the blunt tip of him at her opening and she sniffled, stiffening up with nerves wound tight.

Ominis huffed, trying to push forward but her tense body wouldn’t allow his entrance. “For Merlin’s sake you need to relax. Just imagine it’s Sebastian like always and it’ll be over before you know it.”

She sniffled again as he released her hands and they immediately went to the edge of the crate, gripping so tightly her knuckles turned white. “S-Sebastian has never…I’ve never…”

His eyes widened in recognition and he pulled back, voice coming a bit softer this time. “You’ve never…not once?”

She nodded and his hand came to swipe away the tears, his other hand coming to slide her hair behind her ear. “It feels good after the initial bit you know…if you could survive the pain of Crucio you can make it through this and it’ll start to feel good. You don’t even have to imagine it’s me...”

She sniffled and nodded carefully, he brushed her cheek and his other hand dipped between them to rub the blunt tip up and down between her slit. The sensations were all new but the feel of him stimulating that bundle of nerves between her legs had small spikes of pleasure shooting up through her. She hated it.

She tried to fight it, her body may be wanting this but he was good at pushing the right buttons. She didn’t want Ominis. She was still stuck, she had to do this for Anne and Sebastian to be a family. She sucked in a shaky breath that turned into a whimper as he slid over her clit again.

His warm breath ghosted over her neck. His chest, which was pressed against her back, rumbled. “That’s right dear. Relax and let your body take over. Turn that brilliant brain off for a bit and put yourself somewhere happy. It’ll be over soon.”

He notched himself at her entrance and she let another few tears slip, rolling down her cheeks. She tried to imagine that this was Sebastian above her, that it was after the ball and he’d asked her to go somewhere private. Just then, slim fingers slid between her folds and rubbed small circles around that bundle of nerves.

She moaned out softly and his hips slid forward, his tip kissing that barrier within her that she knew would end this pleasure. She pushed the thought away, trying to imagine those fingers a bit thicker and rougher against her body. She tried to imagine what breathy sounds he’d make or what encouragement he’d whisper against her skin.

A moan from between her lips and Ominis’ body sank forward, pushing past that barrier and sending spikes of discomfort through her body. But as quickly as the discomfort started his fingers redoubled with the pleasurable circles and she was arching into it and whimpering in pleasure. His breath came gently across the back of her neck as he slid her hair out of the way. “That’s right Darling, just like that.”

She moaned low as he praised her, his hips slowly moving back and forth inside of her but he focused most of his intentions on her clit. She was at the very least thankful he didn’t want her to be in pain.

She tried to force herself to think about Sebastian again but the way Ominis’ breathing picked up and his slender body slid against hers as he began to thrust deeper dragged her out of the daydream. She hated how her body reacted, her stomach flipping and swirling and tightening as she listened to the small puffs of air and panting that left his lips.

The pinching discomfort between her legs slowly morphed into hot pleasure that rippled through her in waves. She gripped the crate tighter and his thrusts grew longer and deeper. “Great Merlin you’re so fucking tight, I’ve never had a witch who was a sweet little virgin. I don’t think I can go back after this. Or if this is all just you we may have to convince Sebastian to share your brilliant little body.”

His words sent shocks of pleasure through her and she moaned, pushing her hips back. This felt so good, she struggled to maintain her fantasy of Sebastian ravaging her when Ominis was the one here making her feel so incredible. Pleasure swirled deep in her stomach and she tightened, forcing him to groan behind her. “You better be careful squeezing around me like that. Might just get the idea you actually like this with me or something.”

She whimpered, unable to hold another ripple of pleasure from surging through her. His fingers moved faster, making her arch into his touch for more. “Fuck yes, darling. That’s it. Make me cum, pretty girl.”

His hips slammed deeper till their bodies had no space between, his thrusts growing faster. Her poor hips were going to be bruised and sore from being slammed forward into the crate. The head of him nudged against a spot inside of her that had her seeing stars. She hadn’t even realized how loudly she’d cried out.

He chuckled darkly, angling her hips so he’d hit that spot with every single thrust. “That’s it, come on love, you know you want to cum all over my cock after I took your sweet innocence.”

She made a pitiful sound, the pleasure was too much and the emotions swirling inside of her caused tears to form in the corner of her eyes. His fingers rolling deft circles and him nudging into that spot was all too much for her.

She heard him groan in what sounded like sweet agony as her body stilled, her traitorous body tightening around him. He tensed, holding onto her hips for deer life as he pumped into her. She grew slick and sticky between her legs and she pressed her forehead against the crate, letting her tears fall as she composed her breathing.

Instead of staying to comfort her, he pulled out, casting a cleansing charm on himself before tucking himself away and fixing his attire. She stayed there, quietly crying as his seed and her blood mixed and dripped down her thighs.

He cleared his throat and she finally stood up, not bothering with a cleaning charm and just righting her clothing. She wouldn’t feel clean till she soaked in a boiling hot bath for several hours. But she turned to find him standing there as if nothing had ever happened. “I’ll take this into consideration when I talk to Anne about how best to break the news to the Headmaster. For now you can tell Sebastian I’ve chosen not to turn you both in. But this only lasts as long as you both stay away from the Dark Arts. Understood?”

She nodded, quickly feeling like an idiot before giving him a shaky verbal response. She wouldn’t let her sacrifice be for nothing. She’d make sure the fluffy haired brunette would stay in line no matter the cost.

[deaddee-anime-brownfanlady]

TOP 10 personal Favorite Manga.

Here's just a couple of manga that I love & just think are top-notch.

NUMBER: 1 : TOKYO GHOUL

A series that means a lot to me in many ways. When I first got into Tokyo Ghoul it was by the very first season of the anime during 2014 and upon hearing the opening theme of Unravel and seeing the first episode, I was hooked and went into the manga series right after. A nuanced morally compelling storytelling with an array of so many cool and great characters and narratives, incredible art progression from Ishida Sui, and overall just a satisfyingly great conclusion to boot.

NUMBER: 2 : J NO SUBETE

On the surface, looks like a regular BL series, but underneath an emotional-roller-coaster and pretty heavy story about a transwoman named J. Set in the 40s /50s, you fellow J childhood and the awful, rough bullshit she deals with in life as well as her love & massive admiration of Marilyn Monroe. Really such a good story that deals with some real heavy shit...but still so good.

NUMBER: 3 : MONSTER

Not only one of my favorite anime adaptations but also equally as wonderfully engaging & just as well done as a manga as well. Monster is such a captivating, intense story and truly one of my favorites from Urasawa's works. Following Dr. Tenma, a talented neurosurgeon who has grips with the moral dilemma of either saving the Mayor or saving a young boy who was shot in a murder. Tenma chose to save the boy instead and while it costs him being demoted he still believes he did the right thing. Unfortunately years later discovering the boy he saves...turns out to be a killer. This series is such a banger from its storytelling to the characters and just one of the best from Urasawa's.

NUMBER: 4 : GOODNIGHT PUNPUN

At first glance of this manga, you might think of it as something of a cute slice-of-life story about a cute cartoony bird. But actually when reading it...IT'S WAY MORE DARKER and GETS A LOT MORE FUCK UP! For real Goodnight Punpun is one of those series that's start-up pretty light-hearted and a little bit goofy with Punpun being a cartoony-drawn bird amongst very average-looking humans as a young kid in the first volumes of the series. But as things move forward within the story as Punpun gets older and his family situation gets more unstable as well as his life, the tone gets more depressing as a whole. Love the dark psychological storytelling, although it definitely the type of story you can only read once in awhile or in a good headspace because it definitely can be a hard read.

NUMBER: 5 : BERSERK

Seriously, what can I say about Berserk that already hasn't been said on some level. But this manga is seriously, I feel one of the most top iconic series within manga as well as one of the most engaging, moving, fantastic, epic storyline I've read thus far. I know the series itself is still ongoing, and I've been keeping up-to-date with this story since reading the very first chapter. Hearing about Kentaro Miura death....was tough, I knew he had serious health issues, which is why volumes would tend to go on pretty long hatiuses... but man. Another influential iconic figure in manga gone, Berserk is definitely a series any manga-lover or anime fan should read once in awhile.

NUMBER: 6 : SHOUWA GENROKU RAKUGO SHINJUU

Not only one of the most beautifully mature, well-written, compelling storytelling I've seen thus far in an anime series. But as a manga, even more so, a well-crafted story on the life and times of a sad, burden-ridden, slightly bitter, depressed, old man known as Yakumo Yurakutei, who is a highly skilled and experienced master of Rakugo, which for those who don't know is an traditional Japanese verbal form of entertainment. Think of it as something like a form of Improv done by only one person playing different characters to tell a story, This series has many layers to its storytelling that's is done so well dealing with Yakumo and those in his life that has impacted him as to the type of pained almost broken old man he is within the present time. Just a overall good & bittersweet but fantastic story that's deserves to be check out more.

NUMBER: 7 : INNOCENT

It is one of the most beautifully drawn manga series that I have read so far while also being equally gruesome as well. Innocent is a fictionalized historical manga set during 18th century France about the story and legacy of Charles Henri Sanson (actual real historical figure), who is the fourth generation of a family of Executioners known as the Sanson family who are the royal Executioners of Paris. The story follows Charles rough journey towards his path of becoming the Monsieur De Paris. This absolutely such a fantastic piece of work, both in terms of the visually amazing stunning artwork and along with the historical storytelling of Charles coming to terms with his hated lineage and becoming Executioner of Paris but also showcasing the societal/political chaotic changes and upheaval of France slowly leading up to the French revolution. Although some historical aspects are obviously fictionalized, but still such a good series.

NUMBER: 8 : THE PROMISED NEVERLAND

While my feelings on the anime are highly mixed due to really, really, really not caring for the way they handled parts of the storytelling from season 2 of the anime series. But the manga, on the other hand, is a totally different story. Seriously, reading this series was a blast and just an enjoyable experience from beginning to end, as well as seeing Emma and Ray also Norman grow & and develop throughout each arc was great to witness including seeing the rest of the kids thrive and survive the outside world. For this manga was a great read, and definitely, I'll say at least personally to me was done far better then the second season flimsy adaptation.

NUMBER: 9 : HOMUNCULUS

Truly an mindfuck of a manga in more ways than one. But still a pretty damned good and wild story, Homunculus is a story about a homeless man named Susumu Nakoshi who ends up meeting a seemingly antagonistic young medical student named Itoh Manabu to do a little experiment on him by drilling a actual hole in his skull for a total of 700,000 ¥en. Itoh, who is very fascinated with studying the human minds and amongst other things such as ghosts and the occult, but ultimately he thinks he can unlock the hidden psychic potential of Susumu brain. Nakoshi goes through the process, and at first, nothing seems to happen after going through the the operation. Until he closes his right eye and starts seeing otherworldly nightmarish monsters and shapes with his left eye when he looks at other people. This series is truly a weird but also such a highly intriguing and fascinating psychological read while at the same time being a bit of a downer, but still an excellent but messed-up good story.

NUMBER : 10 : ATELIER OF WITCH HAT

Okay, so I just recently started reading this manga series not that long ago, about a couple of weeks ago, and now I'm so freaking hooked. Atelier of Witch hat has truly captured my heart and mind with its engaging and creatively fascinating world-building involving witches and magic to the just as highly interesting characters and storytelling. Which centers around our young protagonist Coco ( the girl on the cover) who is this super adorably passionate girl who has such a huge love for all things magical /witches and deeply wishes she could become one as well, but unfortunately normal people or "outsiders" can't become witches, you have to be born into it, but that's doesn't stop Coco from trying her hardest to still wanting to be a witch. One of the things I love most about this world and how it handles dealing with magic and witches is that magic is really normal within this world and how witches tend to uses it to help and serve regular people in need or even for lighting up a cobblestone pathway also I really like how the magic system is structured in this series, such as instead of casting spells or any from of magic with words or a phrase, magic is casted by drawing, Coco here ends up in a pickle with accidentally casting magic that ends up turning her mom into stone & thus Coco journey towards witchood begins.

Seriously, even though I've just recently gotten into this manga & and its ongoing tale it's already has captivated me on so many levels and I just can't get enough of it so far wonderful storytelling and amazingly beautiful drawn artsy apart of it which really adds a lot of this series fantastical elements. Definitely a must to check out!!

Wanted to do a list of a couple of some of my most top favorite manga series and ones were I feel other's should give them a shot at checking out if there into any of these stories. (^ _ ^)

[retro-with-a-twist]

¡WARNING!: VERY long post ahead!

I was recently asked to do a tutorial for two friends, and I figured I’d share it here! It’s on how I personally use markers and colored pencils for portraits, so if that’s something you’re interested in then this is for you!

I must preface by saying this is my first tutorial/guide thingy and I’m no professional, but hopefully it helps some! This is only one way of going about it, don’t worry if it’s not your way!

Without further ado, let’s do this! And remember: Trust the process!!!

First, the angelic (😏) reference:

Now, we all see tones differently. I also am using the Art Alternatives Portrait Set, which is limited in tones. So, this won’t be completely picture accurate- which is okay! Essence over accuracy!

Alright! Here we go!

Step One: the sketch!

Typically I do the sketch in the person’s undertone, usually pinks or purples. However, for whatever reason I was compelled to try blue on this one, and hey- what is art if not random attempts at creating beauty?

And just like the color scheme, the sketch isn’t 100% accurate. But again, it’s all good!

But anyways, the reason I do my sketches in colored pencil is because it doesn’t smudge like graphite does, and it actually blends into the marker. I feel it’s smoother, and it provides some undertones as you start layering with marker.

Step Two: base tones

This is where you wonder if you just destroyed the entire drawing. I promise you that you didn’t! Basically what I do here is I put pinks down wherever I see pinks in the reference and lay down where the skin is the darkest. I find that it blends better when it’s underneath the base layer.

Step Three: the base layer

Here, all you do is throw down the skintone over the entirety of where it goes, in this case the face. I typically try to leave out highlights, but sometimes the marker bleeds and covers things I didn’t ask it to. In this case, that was the eyes. Oh well!

One thing to notice here is how you can still see the colored pencil beneath the sketch. That’s a very useful guide for when you begin detailing.

Step 3.5: uh

This isn’t necessarily a marker step, it’s just me letting the ink dry and working on other spots with pen and colored pencil. Also, I do like to go over the pink areas a few times to make them less stark.

Step Four: beginning detailing

Now, black is a tricky color on the face, because it can either smudge on everything and turn it gray, or work really well. I used a colored pencil here, and began going over the blue colored pencil spots and lines that were visible under the marked, which started to bring out his face. I also covered the highlight on the nose that had been left alone thus far.

Step Five: THE™️ details

If there’s anything I’ve learned in my five years of drawing, it’s that the highlights and darkest points are what really make the piece. Pure white, bright highlights (like the ones in the eyes) are awesome, but lately I like smudging them out a little bit so that they’re gentler.

If there’s anything you want to hit, it’s the whites of the eyes with the white gel pen, and the pupils + nostrils with the black fineliner.

I have shaky hands, but I use them to my advantage in stippling the darkest part of the eyebrows and in the line of the lips with the fineliner- it just adds a little bit more depth :)

Hair is its own thing, I just sort of wing it. Black hair especially is not the easiest for me, just because I find it difficult to bring out the shades in it. It’s not done at this step as I was trying to figure out how I was going to finish it.

I will also blend things out with both the skintone marker and a pink colored pencil just to get stuff to be smoother. If you’re going for semi realism/realism like me, I highly recommend taking a reddish brown to do some freckles/skin texture with. You can’t see it too much in this picture, and I didn’t want to overdo it since Cas/Misha doesn’t have that many freckles as far as I can see, but it does make a difference.

Step Six: everything else

I did the jacket in colored pencil as well as the fake id!

If you have any questions let me know, I’m happy to help!

Hope this is a decent guide :)

[bisamwilson]

hey honey! 💖 sambucky and 25. things you said in front of other people!

thanks for the ask, sweetheart <3 does something over 1k words count as a snippet oops (from this list)

"I just wasn't really feelin' it, y'know?" Sam laments to the circle of older ladies around him, sighing while they all nod along knowingly.

It's the first Thursday of the month, which means the local older women's book club is meeting in a small room off the church building where Sam's daddy had preached for twenty years, and, just like every first Thursday of the month that Sam's been in Delacroix since he was fourteen years old, Sam came by to help them set up tables and chairs for all the potluck food they bring with them.

And just like every first Thursday of the last six months since Sam and Bucky had rented a little house down here for when the world isn't on fire--last month excluded, given New York City, at least, was actually on fire--the first fifteen minutes of the local older women's book club is spent lightly interrogating Sam about his love life.

"How many of these dating app first dates have you been on, Sam?" Ms. Sheryl asks from beside him, her arms crossed over her chest.

Sam looks up at the ceiling and counts them in his head, each disappointing match after disappointing match. "Twelve in the last two months, Ms. Sheryl. Thirteen if you count the woman from NOLA I met at a jazz bar and had to leave after five minutes because an emergency mission came up. She unmatched me after that."

Ms. Sheryl nods, her lips pursed, and Sam thinks he might've accidentally just proved a point he didn't know she was making yet. "And how many of those got second dates?"

Sam's saved from having to answer that disheartening, kind-of-a-rhetorical question from the late arrival of Ms. Josephine, newcomer to both the book club and to Delacroix.

She'd moved here about a month and a half ago, about half a year after her husband had passed away, looking for a new start. Every interaction Sam's had with her thus far has been honestly lovely, and he already knows she's got a soft spot for Bucky given how much of her house he'd come over to help fix since she'd moved in. Sam's had his fair share of her "thank you" cooking, and knows full well she's as wonderful a cook as she is a lady.

"Evenin', ladies," she says, holding some kind of dish in her hand that smells downright heavenly. "And Sam," she adds with a wink, smiling when Sam takes the dish from her and sets it over on the table with the rest of the food. "What'd I miss?"

"Sam was just lamenting to us about his dating woes," Ms. Jackie replies, with a tone full of sympathy but a playful twinkle in her eye, taking Sam's hand and patting it soothingly when he comes to stand next to her, leaving his previous seat open for Ms. Josephine.

Sam laughs and squeezes Ms. Jackie's hand. "You've got a son about my age, right, Ms. Josephine? Is he single?"

All the other ladies in the room chuckle along at Sam's joke, but Ms. Josephine just looks confused. "Did something happen with you and Bucky?" she asks, concerned. "He didn't mention it when he came by to fix one of my hinges this morning."

Sam's eyebrows furrow this time around. "Not that I know of? Not unless something has happened in the last thirty minutes since I checked my phone, anyway, but he's not generally the type to call in any case."

Ms. Josephine's face morphs from confusion to contemplation, and she crosses her legs at her ankles and crosses her hands over her lap. "So are y'all in one of those relationships where you can date other people then? I saw some article about that a few weeks ago. Must have some real good communication between the two of you to make both that and all your superheroing work."

She sounds almost impressed, but Sam doesn't really have the mental capacity to acknowledge that right now, not when his brain got stuck on the word "relationships" applied to Bucky and himself.

He looks around the rest of the group to see if any of them are gonna correct her while he's still stuck in his state of shock, but finds all of them just looking vaguely amused.

He shakes his head minutely. "Ms. Josephine, Bucky and I aren't dating."

Her eyes go more than a little wide. "Wait, so you did call it off?"

Sam shakes his head again, a little more vigorously. "No, ma'am. We weren't ever dating in the first place. Did Bucky tell you we were?"

Ms. Josephine shakes her head right back. "Never explicitly, Sam, but it ain't exactly hard to tell when somebody's head over heels. He talks about you like you went and hung the moon for him. Just yesterday he came by and asked if I'd seen one of the recent news segments about you, gushing about how amazin' you look flyin' up there. 'He's so fast, and nimble, Ms. Josephine,' he said to me, all moony eyed. 'It's like nothing you've ever seen before. Sometimes I swear he looks like an angel when he's got his wings spread out.'

"And that's not even countin' the things he says about you when you've been home for a bit. He's always talkin' about whatever fishin' you've done recently, or charity work you've been doin' around here or in NOLA, or how excited you were to buy new cat toys the week before. Every time I ask him if he's got any special requests for thank you meals, he always asks for something with a spice level I'm still not sure he can handle, tellin' me all about how it's been one of your favorites since you were a kid. Bucky's spent at least four days a week at my house pretty much since I've moved in, Sam, and I'm pretty sure I know more about you than I do about him, given how much he talks about you."

Sam's world is starting to tilt on an axis, but he's saved from having to speak up by Ms. Jackie throwing in her two cents. "You know he hates the smell of the flowers he buys from me for y'all's table every week," she says, tone full of faux nonchalance. "Says they're a little too fragrant for his nose because of the serum, but he buys 'em anyway because you always smile when you see he's brought home fresh ones."

Ms. Sheryl's lips quirk up. "You know he replaced damn near every faucet in my house as payment for me helping him with some of the most complicated bits of that sweater he knit you for Christmas. Said it had to be perfect because he knew how cold you always get any time you have to go north of here."

Ms. Maybelle comes in with the final blow, and it hits Sam like the steel chair in all the WWE shows AJ insists on watching every week. "And it ain't like you don't do the same things neither, Sam. Every time I see you it's, 'Hey, Ms. Maybelle, how you been? You wanna see this cute picture I got of Bucky and the cats earlier? They fell asleep on the porch swing he built for us.' You spent the first five minutes of the book club session two months ago debating whether or not Bucky should grow his hair out because he wanted new opinions that weren't yours, and at least half of that was you trying to explain how nice he looked before with the long hair even though it was greasy, but how you like the way the short hair feels when he has his head in your lap on movie night."

Sam doesn't really know how he can defend himself here, but he's got some argument on the tip of his tongue about how their couch was just a little too small for the both of them and their cats, so the head in the lap was the obvious solution. He doesn't think it'll do much damage control, but he thinks he should at least make the attempt.

Instead, he turns back to Ms. Josephine kind of on autopilot. "He called me an angel?" he asks, his heart a little fluttery, and Ms. Josephine just smiles.

"I'll, uh, see you all here same time next month?" he asks as a kind of permission to leave. "I think I might need to go see what my roommate is up to."

"Bring your boy with you next time, Sam," Ms. Sheryl replies, nodding him towards the door. "It's much more fun to tease you both together."

[giveamadeuschohisownmovie]

I’ve been thinking a lot recently about how the Jak and Daxter series was able to survive having a sequel that was drastically different from the first game. For most series, I think they wouldn’t be able to survive having a sequel that went against the prior installment, especially if the execution was bad. Yet Jak II didn’t sink the franchise. In fact, I’ve noticed that the 2nd Jak game has received better reception in the years since it was released.

As a kid, even though it took some getting used to since I loved the 1st game, I wasn’t put off by Jak II being this cyberpunk GTA title. But I never understood why.

After revisiting the game (I watched a playthrough on YouTube), I think I have a working theory:

1) Jak and Daxter only had 1 game out at the time.

So, the expectations for how the characters would be portrayed wasn’t that strict. Think of it like this; Nintendo wouldn’t get away with turning Link into an unhinged, smartass killer who openly flirts with Zelda. Neither would Sega with Sonic, that’s why Shadow exists. Link and Sonic are too well-known and established that people have expectations on how they should be portrayed, thus not a ton of room for experimentation/deviation. Naughty Dog had some leeway since Jak and Daxter weren’t really household names.

2) Turning Jak into an unhinged, bloodthirsty killer who openly flirts with Keira and has serious anger issues wasn’t that drastic.

This one’s pretty self-explanatory. You start off as innocent Jak, then he got pumped full of Dark Eco. Also, he was tortured for several years, so it’s not hard to see why his character turned out the way he did.

3) The game still feels like the 1st Jak and Daxter, even with the change in tone.

It controls the same. It looks the same (as in the artwork still feels like it was made by the same team). You’re still doing puzzles. And, aside from Jak, the other Jak 1 characters are pretty much the same. I think it’s Daxter and his obnoxiousness that really makes Jak II feel like it’s not a completely different franchise. Without Daxter, I think players would notice the dissonance from the 1st to the 2nd game a lot more.

4) Continuing from point 3, the new gameplay elements only build on from the 1st game rather than take away.

Sure, you get guns, a hoverboard, vehicles, and Dark Jak. However, everything else is still the same. If you remember the controls from the 1st game, you shouldn’t have any problem jumping into the 2nd game, which I feel helps in easing veteran players in with the new tone and setting.

5) Even with the change in tone and setting, the game doesn’t really deviate too far from how Jak was in Jak 1.

Even though Jak is unhinged, angry, and hellbent on revenge in Jak II, he’s still an overall good dude who goes around helping people. Jak still feels like Jak, albeit traumatized and angrier for valid reasons. It helps that Jak was sort of a blank slate in the first game. Because he was a blank slate, there was more room for Naughty Dog to develop his character in Jak II.

Jak is also a bit of a meathead dudebro in Jak II, which isn’t really how he was portrayed in Jak 1. But Jak being a dudebro isn’t that crazy when you consider his best friend is Daxter. And the open flirting isn’t that crazy since Jak already had a crush on Keira.

6) Jak II commits to its dark and edgy tone without going too dark or too cartoonish. It feels like a genuine attempt to take the first game and just “edge” it up.

What my point says. Jak II feels like a genuine continuation of the first game, but darker and edgier. But the game doesn’t go too edgy to the point that it takes you out of the story. It’s not like Jak is going around dropping f-bombs and chopping people’s heads off. It’s a solid balance, that’s what I’m trying to get at.

[lisbeth-kk]

May 9 prompt: home

Thanks for the tag @notjustamumj

Finding purpose

John’s lived many places due to his fatber’s military career. As a child it was sometimes devastating. Once a friendship had formed, they were always forced to move again. Harry made a fuss every time, driving their mother to despair and their father to fury. John decided early on to take another approach. When the date of depature was set, John was particularly fierce and aggressive at the rugby field, and came home looking ragged, but satisfied as if he’d won a battle.

The only place John felt quite familiar with was his birth place, London. He didn’t remember anything from the first two years he lived there of course, but they’ve lived near the city a few times since then. He’d always felt drawn to the city for some reason, although he knew no one there. Learning his lesson to try to form friendships during his childhood, he kept his distance through medical school. He dated, but it was never serious on his part. If he’d left some broken hearts behind, he wasn’t aware.

Reaching captain’s position in the army, John could keep distant even more effectively. He was the men’s superior officer, and it was frowned upon to make friends with his men. The years as a soldier and doctor were his best years thus far. He’d found a purpose, and he was bloody good at what he was doing.

And then John’s world collapsed. He was shot, and for a long while it was all pain, agony and despair. He felt alone and abandoned, and when he was sent back to England, his bland bedsit did nothing to improve his mood. His only comfort was his gun, which turned more appealing for each day that passed. Something unknown made him hesitate, though. A feeling that there would be an end to this depressive time in his life.

The day when John Watson’s life changed, was just an ordinary one. He’d told his therapist that nothing ever happened to him, and, no, he didn’t have the urge to write about this miserable life, thank you very much!

John was pleasantly surprised when Mike called his name on his way through the park. He’d always considered Mike a nice bloke, and John knew he himself was to blame for the loss of contact.

Meeting Sherlock Holmes was something John never could’ve envisioned. Instead of greeting him, the enigmatic man asked him a question John was totally unprepared for.

«Afghanistan or Iraq?»

From that moment, John knew he’d found what, or rather who he’d been looking for all his life. This man rescued him from a life of boredom or suicide, and in return John saved Sherlock’s life from that dreadful cabby the very next day.

***

«You, alright?» the familiar baritone murmurs.

John kisses Sherlock’s shoulder and nuzzles closer.

«Yeah, I was just thinking of how you saved me that day at Bart’s,» John says softly.

«I found a proper home the day I walked into this flat, for the first time in my life. But now the flat doesn’t really matter,» John concludes.

«What do you mean, John?» Sherlock asks in a puzzled tone.

John rises his head from Sherlock’s chest and looks down on his face, stroking a finger over a cheekbone.

«Because now, my precious, home is where you are.»

The amount of writing I get done as a passenger is quite satisfying.

@totallysilvergirl @calaisreno @raina-at @topsyturvy-turtely @meetinginsamarra

[loveroftoomanyfandoms]

Angel of God, My Guardian Dear Chapter 2: Reader

Rating: Explicit (18+, MINORS DNI)

Pairing: Matt Murdock x F!Reader

Story Summary: While speaking at a local school for visually impaired youth, Matt runs into his childhood best friend, with whom he lost touch almost 20 years prior.

Warnings/Tags: no real warnings thus far.

Word Count: ~2,300

A/N: None.

I still can't believe it's really him.

Matthew Murdock -- Y/N's childhood best friend, the boy she had never stopped loving since the moment she had realized what the butterflies in her stomach when she was around him were being caused by, the one person in the whole world that she had never wanted to live without but had been unwillingly forced to do so for the past 19 years -- was not only sitting on her sofa, but also reciprocated Y/N's feelings that she had carried for so long.

Y/N had honestly forgotten about the contents of that last letter she had written to Matt -- she had written it as a means of catharsis during a bout of self-pity fueled by her breakup with Alex and had only vaguely remembered writing Matt a goodbye letter when she had awoken the next morning, all cried out over the loss of not only her relationship, but also the renewed pain of never knowing what possibly could have transpired between her and Matt, had Y/N been given the chance to tell him how she felt. 

It had taken every ounce of courage she'd had to finish reading her letter out loud to Matt, and after she had finished and seen the stunned look on his face all she had wanted to do was to go crawl into a hole and hide for the next 19 years.

Instead she had picked up her drink and drank it as fast as she could, hoping the alcohol would numb the sting of rejection she had surely been about to face.

"You were in love with me?" Matt had asked.

Y/N had squeezed her eyes shut, not wanting to see the look of scorn or, worse, pity , that Matt's face was sure to have worn.

She had been about to get up and pour herself another shot of amaretto when Matt had gently taken her glass and set it on her coffee table, then took her hand in his. "Y/N? Please, angel, talk to me."

Y/N's eyes had snapped back open in surprise at the undisguised plea in Matt's tone. There had been no mistaking his expression, either -- there was hope written plainly on his face.

Fueled by liquid courage and her own tentative hope, Y/N had taken a deep breath and told Matt the truth, that she was still in love with him. 

Her heart had leapt for joy when Matt had told her that he not only had, but also still reciprocated her feelings, then he had pulled the cross necklace she had given him right before she had left for Florida out from under his shirt. I've always kept you close to my heart.

A strange mix of happiness and anger had flooded her system and while she was still fighting the urge to march down to St. Agnes to give Sister Bernadette a piece of her mind, her anger had admittedly been somewhat abated when Matt had kissed her a few moments ago and asked her out to dinner for the following evening. 

Matt was currently looking at her somewhat nervously. "So? What do you say, angel? Go on a date with me?"

Y/N nodded. "Of course, Matty. I'd love to."

Matt grinned. "What time do you usually get off work? I'm thinking maybe you can come to my place? I'll cook."

"I get off at 5, but I'll want to come home to shower and change first, so is 6:30 okay?"

Matt nodded. "Yeah, that's perfect."

"Okay, awesome."

Matt's expression grew serious. "There's something I should probably tell you though."

Y/N's brows furrowed. "Okay."

Her mind began to race. What the hell could he possibly be talking about? "You didn't lie about being married, did you?"

Matt's face twisted into confusion. "What? No, I've never even been engaged."

"Then are you in the mob? On the run from the law? Joined some sort of weird sex cult?"

Matt laughed. "None of the above, actually."

"Then what is it? Because I honestly don't know what could be worse than you being in a sex cult, except maybe if you're a serial killer or something. Oh my God, you're not a serial killer, are you?"

Matt shook his head. "No, angel, it's nothing like that. Quite the opposite, in fact."

He took a deep breath. "You've heard of Daredevil, right?"

"That vigilante dude?"

"Yeah. Well, you see -- the thing is…" Matt trailed off.

Suddenly the lightbulb in Y/N's head went off. "It's you."

"Yeah." Matt nodded. "I'm him. I'm Daredevil."

It honestly made sense once Y/N thought about it. She had known about Matt's heightened senses as a kid and his training sessions with Stick, and the fighting style had seemed familiar in the few grainy videos of Daredevil that Y/N had seen on the news. Thinking about it now though, she figured that deep down she had kind of always known that the Devil of Hell's Kitchen had to have been the same person that had taught her self-defense as a teenager.

She took a deep breath and nodded. "I can deal with that. Just… just don't do anything too reckless or stupid and get yourself killed though, okay? I just got you back, I can't lose you again."

Matt took her hand and raised it to his mouth for a kiss, visible relief on his face. "I'll try my best, I promise. Thank you for being so understanding."

"Thank you for still trusting me even after all these years." Y/N bit her lip. "Any other secrets you want to tell me?"

Matt shook his head with a smile. "Nope, the fact that I'm secretly a vigilante crime-fighter is the only big secret I got. Oh, no, wait-- there is one more. You remember Sister Maggie from the orphanage?"

"Oh, yeah, of course. She was always nice. I liked her."

"She's my mother."

"She's your -- you're kidding, right?"

Matt shrugged. "Afraid not."

"Oh my God."

"Yeah."

Y/N huffed out a breath. "Did you know that when we were kids?"

Matt shook his head. "No, I just found out fairly recently. Needless to say I wasn't too happy about it at first, but I've made peace with it now."

"Well that's good."

"She asked about you, you know."

Y/N was taken aback. "She did?"

Matt nodded. "Yeah, she asked me how you were doing and seemed genuinely surprised that we hadn't spoken since you left St. Agnes, especially considering we had always been pretty much attached at the hip as kids."

Y/N sighed. "I'm assuming she wasn't in on Sister Bernadette's plan to separate us then."

Matt grinned and shook his head. "Actually I'm pretty sure she thought we'd be married with a bunch of kids by now."

Y/N huffed out a laugh. "Sister Maggie's your mom. Wow. Any other bombs you wanna drop?"

Matt shook his head. "Nope, that's all of them."

"Ok good, because I have a secret of my own."

Matt raised an eyebrow and grinned. "You're also secretly a crime-fighting vigilante?"

Y/N giggled. "No, nor am I actually married, running from the law, in the mob, or in a weird sex cult either. Oh, nor am I a serial killer, I promise."

"Then what is it?"

Y/N leaned in to whisper in Matt's ear. "You weren't the only hormonal teenager who occasionally had dirty thoughts about their best friend."

Matt hummed playfully, wrapping his arms around her. "Well now… Pot, meet kettle."

Y/N trailed a finger down Matt's torso. "I'll tell you about mine if you tell me about yours."

Matt smirked. "You really want to know what I would think about?"

Y/N nodded. "Mmhmm." 

"Well, by the time my thoughts had gotten to that point I'd already been wanting to kiss you for years, so first off I would think about finally being able to know if your lips would taste like that coconut lip balm I always smelled on you."

Y/N licked her lips reflexively. "And did you think they would?"

"Mmhmm. I bet your lips would've tasted amazing , angel. Had to fight the urge to kiss you that last day just so I could find out once and for all."

Y/N swallowed. "What else would you think about?"

"I'd think about kissing your neck. I knew if I ever got the chance to feel your pulse fluttering under my lips that I would have to be extra careful not to leave any marks, although I'd want to so I could show everyone that you were mine."

Y/N sucked in a breath. Holy shit. She had never known that Matt had a possessive streak but Christ, that turned her on.

Matt licked his lips and smirked. "Oh, you like that, don't you, angel? You like the thought of me marking you up for everyone to see?"

Y/N huffed out a breathless laugh. "Sister Bernadette probably would've shipped me off to a convent overseas instead of my aunt's house in Florida had you ever given me a hickey, although I probably wouldn't have minded you leaving some in more… inconspicuous places."

"Oh really? Wanted to feel my mouth on you, sweetheart?"

God, yes. Y/N took a shaky breath and nodded. "I used to think about your lips a lot, Matty, used to think about -- about kissing you, be it sweet, innocent pecks or full-on makeout sessions leading to those aforementioned inconspicuous hickies."

"What else?" 

"I also used to think about your hands. Wanted you to touch me, wondered what it would feel like to have those long fingers of yours tracing more than just my face."

Matt groaned. "I used to think about that too, what it'd feel like if I'd been allowed to touch you outside of the platonic cuddles and chaste hugs we used to share."

Y/N shivered with desire, the gruff tone in Matt's voice sending lightning straight to her core. 

Matt made a vague gesture towards Y/N's face. "Speaking of me tracing your face though, may I? I'm still picturing teenage you and to be honest, it's kind of freaking me out -- all things considered."

Y/N chuckled. Matt had mapped out her face a couple of times as they were growing up, and she still remembered the look of concentration on his face as he had put together a mental picture of her. "Yeah, of course."

"Okay. Good. Great." Matt shifted to face Y/N more fully and tentatively reached out to touch her. "You ready?"

Y/N nodded and closed her eyes. "Yeah. Go for it."

She fought to not lean into Matt's touch as he took his time tracing her features, his fingertips slowly gliding over her forehead, eyes, cheeks, nose, lips, and finally jawline.

Y/N opened her eyes as Matt leaned back. "I know I got older, but do I still somewhat look like what you remember?"

Matt shook his head solemnly, his eyebrows furrowed in thought. "Actually… no."

Y/N blinked in surprise. " No ? Have I really changed that much?"

A smile spread on Matt's face. "You're even more beautiful now than you were back then."

Y/N huffed out a laugh even as her face heated. "Matthew."

Matt shrugged, his smile widening into a grin. "What? It's true."

Y/N shook her head fondly. "Actually as attractive as I thought you were when we were kids, I think you're even more handsome now."

Matt chuckled. "That's nice to hear."

Y/N licked her lips, the lust and alcohol coursing through her veins emboldening her. "Matty?"

"Yeah, angel?"

"Enough talking."

Matt grinned and cupped the sides of Y/N's neck with his hands, then pressed his lips to hers once more.

Y/N relaxed into Matt and willingly opened up to him as he deepened the kiss, the flavor of Matt himself even more intoxicating than the whiskey Y/N could taste on his tongue. 

Matt slid one hand down to her waist and pulled her closer to him, his other hand sliding up to tangle in her hair.

Y/N pressed her hands to Matt's chest to stabilize herself, marveling at just how solid he was under her touch. 

Matt groaned, trailing his lips down Y/N's jawline to her neck. "Used to dream about being with you like this, Y/N," he murmured against her skin. "Wanted you so much."

Y/N gasped as Matt placed a kiss just under her jawbone. "Wanted you too, Matt. Still do."

Matt let out a soft growl against her pulse point. "As much as I want to make love to you, the first time I take you to bed I want both of us to be clear-headed." 

Y/N nodded. As much as she wanted Matt and as amazing as his five o'clock shadow felt scratching against her skin, she knew it wasn't a wise decision to jump into bed with him right then. "Yeah. Yeah, me too."

Matt sighed and nuzzled Y/N's neck before leaning back. "Actually, I should probably get going. It's getting late." 

He pointed to the letters that were still on Y/N's coffee table. "May I have those?"

Y/N nodded again. "Yeah, of course."

They gathered the letters and put them back in the box, then stood. 

Y/N wrapped her arms around Matt in a hug. "I'll see you tomorrow night?"

Matt nodded and pressed a kiss to Y/N's forehead. "Can't wait."

Y/N tilted her face up to him and smiled. "Me either."

Matt reached up and caressed Y/N's cheek with his thumb, then gave her a soft kiss on the lips. "I'm really happy I ran into you today. I've missed you."

Y/N nodded, her heart fluttering. "I've missed you too."

"Good night, angel."

"'Night, Matty."

Y/N let Matt out and locked the door behind him, then let out a happy sigh. Never had she imagined that her day would turn out like it did, but she couldn't have been happier that it had. 

[boysplanetrecaps]

Build Up Episode 0: Getting to Know the Boys Part 3: Team Power

Hey, friends! Welcome back to this crazy project I set out for myself -- writing up a bit about each of the 40 contestants on MNET’s Build Up before I dive into the recaps. Last post, I covered Team Soul. This post will be about Team Power. Let’s do it!

Same caveats apply: 1) I’m pressed for time, so proofreading will suffer; please be kind! 2) screencaps will be awkward due to technological issues and 3) All of these guys are amazing vocalists; my critique is splitting hairs and just my opinion at the end of the day. 

Choi Haram

I also have almost no information about Haram, except that he’s a musical actor. In his teaser, V08, I Want to Fall in Love  by Johan Kim, he sings in that classical “musical actor” way, which is just not my favorite style of singing. That doesn’t make it bad! He also is singing a ballad. Which does mean it’s bad! Ha ha, jk.

I'll do my best to evaluate him even though the song is a ballad. I'm a hero, right? His soft tone he uses in the verses is just too breathy and nasal for my taste. But I do like the belt on the chorus part -- nice work. This guy definitely knows how to sing. I wonder what he’ll sound like singing more of a pop song. 

Kim Minseo

This is Kim Minseo, 21, who also appeared on a show I’d never heard of called “The Origin - A, B, or What?” It “was a new type of survival program that combines balance games along with K-pop,” whatever THAT means, and it created the group ATBO. On the Wikipedia page for that show, it says that he was born in January of 2003, making him 21 now, and it also says that he lived in China for ten years and can speak Chinese. I wonder if he and Wumuti will ever speak some Chinese together? 

I really, really liked his teaser performance of Rolling in the Deep by Adele (V39), slight pronunciation issues aside. It was actually kind of cute how he sort of just gave up on pronouncing ‘underestimate’ halfway. He has a distinct, real voice that shows some training but also some rough edges. For me, he’s one to watch. Watch? Listen to? Whatever. 

Yoon Inhwan

Yoon In-Hwan, V23, is one of the enigmas of the show -- I have no information about him. For me, his mini audition showed an unpleasantly throaty, nasal, thick vocal color that I didn’t exactly love. He sounded like he had just drunk a whole gallon of milk or something. I don’t know if that’s how he always sings, or if he just was feeling unwell that day or what. As promised, he did have a lot of power, and he also had a good sense of pitch. Hopefully he’ll do better going forward!

Jo Hwanji

I haven’t been able to get a decent screengrab thus far, but Hwanji is the guy in the uniform in episode 1. He’s only 24 -- isn’t that surprising? Before this, he went on other shows called Phantom Singer 3 and Fantastic Duo 2.

He’s another musical actor, but in his teaser song V26 he breaks the musical actor mold by singing an upbeat retro swing song by JYP -- yes, that JYP -- called Swing Baby. I like the song, and I also like the way he sings it. Clean but full, with fun little growls to brighten things up, varied dynamics, impeccable pitch, and the power he promised. Good stuff! He’s also so hilariously square. I mean it literally. He looks like a Pixar character. It’s cute. I'm looking forward to hearing more from him.

Lim Junhyeok

Junhyeok, age 30, debuted as part of the JYP-based k-band Day6 in September 2015, singing and playing keyboards. In late 2015, it was revealed that he’d been chatting with a female fan online, and that they might have been dating. The controversy built, and he felt obligated to leave the group in February 2016, getting to enjoy less than six months with the group. God, that must have been just heart wrenching for him. I can’t imagine.

Afterward, he joined another band called Be Blossom, but stayed only about a year. Since then, he was on a survival show called The Unit, which was about rebooting debuted idols’ careers. (A few other contestants of Build Up also went on The Unit, too.) He also continues to compose music, which I think is actually his first love. 

His teaser song performance, V05,  was I Love You by Shin Hyo Bum, and you can see in the silhouette that he’s playing the keyboards as he sings. I didn’t love his performance, unfortunately. It felt a little shrieky to me at times, and his softer notes were a little too breathy for my taste. He definitely belongs in the Power group, though. He can sure belt when he wants to -- it’s the softer segments that challenge him. Maybe it’s just my bias against ballads acting up, as well. 

It’s kind of a bummer, because for whatever reason, I like him. I can’t help but cheer for a guy who (a) was kicked out of his group after six months for dating, like, omg, how dare a young person want to date! (b) is a bit on the older side (c) composes music and plays instruments and most importantly (d) shows up to a survival show in a goddamn hoodie. Like, yes, king. So I hope that I grow to like his vocals better as I hear more from him. 

Side note: The Korean family name “Lim” is often transliterated as “Im” since that’s actually closer to how it’s pronounced. So if you see his family name written as “Im,” that’s why. (Nayeon from Twice has the family name of Lim/Im -- hence her album name.)

Park Jeup

Park Jeup makes himself known by wearing an enormous bow on the first day. It’s just such a choice, when he’s so masculine looking. Own it! Yes!

Anyway, he’s 30, and is a member of IMFACT. He’s been on a bunch of singing shows, as well as The Unit, which would have put him in company with Lim Junhyuk (former Day6) and Hyukjin from Fave1.

His group IMFACT debuted in January 2016 and put out several albums and singles, but none of their songs have even one million views on Youtube. Most of them don’t even break 500,000 views. In 2022, all the members of IMFACT left their agency (Star Empire). The group hasn’t officially disbanded, but the members are listing themselves as soloists. They really weren’t a bad group, and it’s a shame that they never caught on, but it’s just such a crowded landscape. Their song Only You spent some time on my playlist a few years back, and Jeup’s voice in that song is really sweet. 

I tried my best to give his teaser song a try -- he was V34 --  but I just dislike ballads so much that I can’t judge him fairly. Vocally, though, he sounds well trained. He has a surprisingly high pitched timbre considering his appearance. 

Here is a performance he did in 2018, in which he made the MNET reaction editors play the instant replay buttons like a xylophone. I think there was some sort of gas leak in the studio that day, because, yeah, his voice is nice but people are having spasms in their excitement and it’s a bit much. Also, he's singing another ballad so it's kind of a no from me.

A song that’s a bit more palatable for me is this cover of Exo’s Monster on The Unit. 

Jeup doesn’t seem to be the main vocal, but he is the one who sings “I’m sorry…. You make me… so crazy, you know you do.” He also does the higher harmony line/descant/whatever it is over the “Come here girl, you… call… me… monster” line. And he pulls it off!

I recognize Jeup’s skill, technique, and passion for the art. I’m not as sure that I love his timbre for whatever reason. I hope his voice grows on me, in part because I always have a soft spot for hard working nugu idols, and in part because I always gravitate toward the older, more broad shouldered idol types, like Baekho from NU’EST and Wyatt from ONF. Jeup, fighting!

Hyukjin

Hyukjin is 30 and is from a group called Fave1, where he’s lead vocal and lead dancer. He also appeared on The Unit, so he may also know Park Jeup and Lim Junhyuk.

Ok, so his background is kind of sad, fam.

His first group, 100%, debuted in 2012, so he’s been at this a while. There were originally seven members, but two quit, and then one member, the leader Minwoo, passed away in 2018. That had to be so hard on Hyukjin and the rest of the team, to lose not just their friend and teammate but also their leader. The group disbanded in 2021, and three of the four remaining members formed Fave1 at a new agency. So they’re kind of like Loosemble or Vivez that way. 

100% started off doing ok -- their older songs had 1 or 2 million views, good for the time period -- but their more recent songs max out at around 400,000 views. Fave1, unfortunately, is really not doing nearly as well as even 100%. Their songs usually have views measured in the thousands, and their videos look like they were shot on someone’s iPhone. Really, the whole thing is kind of heartbreaking. 

In his teaser, Hyukjin was V22 , and sang a quasi-heavy metal song -- think Dreamcatcher style -- called Lazenca, Save Us. It was a unique choice, that’s for sure! I think he was hoping that it might make a splash for being the guy who did THIS song. I’m not sure how I feel about his performance. I think I need to hear more of him to make up my mind. But I mean, gotta respect someone who comes out of the gate with that! I think his natural voice is not quite as deep and rich as it should be to successfully pull off this kind of thing, but he displays strong sense of pitch and a lot of power. It does gets a bit shrieky and it sounds like he’s hurting his throat. I’m looking forward to seeing what else he can do because I just want to see him succeed.

Ok, that's about it for this post! Sorry if it was a bit of a bummer. So many sad stories in this industry. In the next post, we'll be visiting with Team Unique, and then we'll finally get into the recaps! See you soon.

xoxo

BPR Noona

[lovelyrocker]

Pool Girl pt.8

RPF

Warnings: Pining, Flirting, Language, Drinking, Pining

Characters: Timothee Chalamet, Reader

Pairings: None

Word Count: 1,099

Timothee was on the couch in his living room, legs propped up on the glass table in front of him, tossing the basketball in the air over his head. His phone was next to him on the couch, speaker on as he talked to his friend, Mason, on the other end. 

“So, you haven’t heard from her since?” Mason asked from the phone.

“Nope.” Timothee answered, tossing the ball up again. “It’s been three days since I kissed her at that party and nothing.”

“So wait,” He heard that tone he knew from Mason. “You don’t have her number, you don’t know where she lives. All you know is that she is a fill in with the pool company you use. All of your interactions thus far have been random conversations with her showing up in your backyard to work.”

“Yeah.”

“Did you call the company and ask for her?”

“No.”

“Then how do you expect her to get a hold of you, dumbass?”

“What am I supposed to say without sounding like a creep?!” Timothee’s head popped up from the back of the sofa when he heard a light knocking on his back door. He smiled brightly when he saw Y/N standing there in a floral sundress that reached her knees and draped her shoulders. “Mas, I gotta go.” He spoke into his phone and instantly hung up before his friend had a chance to answer. He went to the back door and opened it, running his hands through his messy curls. “Hey!” He greeted.

“I’m not interrupting, am I?”

‘No! No, come in!” He moved to the side, letting her in. 

“You know, I’m kind of surprised.” She turned, looking at him.

“About?”

“I thought for sure you would have called the company phone and gotten my number by now.”

Timothee let out a laugh. ‘I thought about it. I just didn’t want to seem like a weirdo. I also didn’t think you would wait three days before you showed up again.”

“It is the busiest time of the year. I can’t just slum it here with you all day.” She smirks , walking past him. 

“Want a drink?” He offers, walking behind her. “I have Bourbon, beer, water, soda, wine?”

“Trying to get me drunk, Chalamet?”

“Not at all.” He shakes his head softly. His eyes follow up and down her appearance. “What are you doing on this side of the city?”

“I was in the neighborhood.” She told him, sitting on the edge of the couch. 

“You look very nice for neighbood strolling.” 

“You really want to know?” She leans back on the couch.

“Yeah.” He walks over and sits on the couch next to her, propping his knee up, leaning an elbow on the back of the couch.

“I was on a date.” She turned, matching his position. She saw his face drop when she mentioned the date. 

“Oh?” His brow furrowed.

“Some guy my friends set me up with before they saw us together at the party.”

“So, if you are supposed to be on a date, what are you doing here?” A smirk formed over his plush lips, and she couldn’t help but smile. 

“Well, I was bored thirty minutes into the date and I made up a work emergency to leave.” She gave an exhale. 

“Were you?” He tried to hide his smile. “What emergency could you possibly have in the pool business that would need you to leave a date?”

“Some flooding problems.” She explained with a giggle and the wave of her hand. She looked back at him and he chuckled, biting his lower lip. “It’s not polite to be so happy about another’s failed date, Timothee.” 

“Tell me,” He pushed his long curls from his forehead, tucking them behind his ear. “Could the reason be maybe you’re just not that into him?”

“Safe to say.” 

“Are you gonna come out and admit you’ve been thinking of me just as much as I’ve been thinking of you, or will you make me work for it?”

“Work for it. Definitely.” She nods with a giggle. “What would be the fun in that, if not?”

Timothee leans in closely, bringing his hand up to her face. He caressed her cheek with a thumb. “You're sadistic, you know that?”

He smirks as he leans in closer. He can feel her breath hitch just before he presses his lips to hers. It was sweet, not rushed at all. The kind of kiss that stirs up the butterflies that were already fluttering in a person’s belly and makes one lightheaded, forcing their part mouths to catch their breath. Only for a moment though, then their lips touch again and then again. She feels his tongue touching her lower lip, eager to explore what lies beyond. Meeting him halfway she allows the kiss to deepen as he leans forward. Timothee’s hand slides from her cheek, down her arm to her side, giving a squeeze to her waist. She lets her hands go to his neck and wrap behind him into the dark curls and the nape of his neck. Her back touches the arm of the couch as he leans his body in over her.

She pulls away with a smile. “Slow down.” She exhales, bringing her hand to push a stray curl from his face. “I’m not going anywhere.”

“Sorry.” He sits back with a chuckle. “You’re just,” He pauses, looking into her eyes. “Amazing.” He leans back against the sofa. “So,” He clears his throat. “You are most certainly not like other women.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” She sits up next to him. 

“It is!” He chuckles. “Tell me, how does one go about asking you on a date?”

He watches her face as she thinks about it. “Just be straight forward.” She tells him with a smirk. “I’m very big with boldness to an extent.”

“Alright. Will you let me take you to dinner?”

“One condition.”

“Okay?” He furrows a brow, unsure where this is going.

“Nothing flashy. I don’t want this fancy, big, showy thing.” She tells him. “I want normal, simple, regular Tim.”

“I think I can do that.” He nods.

“Then, yes. I’d love to go on a date with you!” She leans forward and presses a chaste kiss on his lips. “Now, I got to go. There is a murder documentary with my name on it waiting on Netflix.” She gets up and is out the door, leaving Timothee sitting on the couch with a smile and butterflies the size of eagles in his stomach.

[myremains]

The career trajectory of Sheffield’s Bring Me The Horizon is something I would never have predicted. Not the change in sound and style, the sheer fame and popularity they would reach, the huge venues they’d sell out, none of it. With these guys you never know whether you’re getting some grit or mainstream appeal, it’s always a guessing game, but that adds to the mystique and mystery. 2024 marks 20 years of BMTH and in that time they’ve put out 9 very different albums.

A lot of the tracks have been out for a while now - arguably I didn’t fully appreciate some of them until now - so let’s recap. Back in 2021 we got “DiE4u” which really didn’t land with me, it was too - for lack of better words - glittery and shiny even though I can see what they went for, it just wasn’t for me. 2022 they dropped “sTraNgeRs” which I didn’t even pick up on till this album dropped and now is easily my favourite Bring Me The Horizon song of all time, another testament to the relatability between the band and the audience, the pain beckons to you and swallows you whole. Almost exactly a year ago we got “LosT”, which is extraordinarily inviting with a melancholy sweetness relatable to anyone who has suffered from mental health issues, depicting the mask we wear when the pain is scratching beneath the surface, grabs me every time. A month later we had “AmEN!” featuring Lil Uzi Vert and Glassjaw vocalist Daryl Palumbo, it was like a left hook from Mike Tyson, it’s incredible from start to finish, one of the heaviest songs they’ve put out in a long time, the ear shattering explosive drop at the end makes me so happy. October last year brought “DArkSide”, a harrowing oh so familiar story around feeling suicidal, the haunting melody entices and the darkness of the subject seeps in through the skin, chilling. Then finally and what seems to be the most popular of all the singles was “Kool-Aid”, initially I was resistant but before long I was doing the claps like everyone else, it’s beautiful metaphor for the current climate of society, with a sugary sour crashing of tones made purposefully to damage the human neck. “liMOusIne” guest features Norwegian singer songwriter AURORA, I have to tell you straight away that this is basically a Diamond Eyes era Deftones song, that’s not necessarily a bad thing as Deftones are phenomenal however the likeness is a touch too uncanny to be mistaken, I’m never going to discourage them from utilising this style in the future and quite frankly it breaks the album up with something new. “YOUtopia” is another Deftonesy track but the difference with this one I felt was that it was influenced by them rather than pretty much just being something they’ve written. “n/A” was a big track from my perspective, it’s a very steady acoustic track about addiction that picks up more and more as the track goes on, I feel an indie influence at play but that contrasted with the lyrics makes an unusual setting for lyrics such as “Make Love To A Chainsaw”, it’s my jam.

After the first part of the Post Human series, they proved they could take us by surprise and reminded us exactly who they are, it ignited a fire of hope inside me and with this big sparkling diamond of a record I believe will stand the test of time. I never thought I’d find a replication of that feeling of exploring Sempiternal again, by no means is there a replication but full evolutionary step. Ok guys, I get it, I’ll keep my mouth shut about your going soft, you just do you and keep the journey as exciting and mysterious as you’ve managed to thus far.

[10/10]

[jurijurijurious]

(Been re-watching Reboot, love your work.) Just have to say [dubious writing and/or Trojan abilities aside] that it really is both terrifying and disturbingly intimate how Megabyte is the cause of all of Dot's deepest emotional scars and yet also knows /exactly what she (thinks) she wants/ in a partner. Your thoughts?

Hi, sorry I took a few days to answer this, it's the kind of ask I like to mull over and smirk about. I apologise if I don't actually answer the question but I'll talk around it and see where it leads.

To start with, I think you've hit on the element of the series which is at the crux of my MegaDot fanfic and fanart - that ultimately Megabyte is highly perceptive about Dot's wants, and possibly even needs, and yet, in contrast, and in line with his nature, he knows, and at many times has infiltrated, her faults and weaknesses.

I will over-simplify things but bear with me...

The thing about Megabyte and Dot is that arguably, at a basic level, they are the same character. The parallels are I think particularly sharp in series one and again at the start of series 3, where they are at first competitive, astute and highly ambitious businessmen/women (series 1 - plus that nice lil scene in series 2 where Dot asks Megabyte to loan his ABCs - the fact she has him in her "phone book" always tickles me) OR later on, as the show develops and progresses, they are both sharp-minded strategists and commanders (series 3, where both characters are much darker and more ruthless).

If you strip away their morals, their appearance, their gender, etc, etc, and look at their basic motives and drives, whether that be in business and trade, or in war and conquest, you have the same mould. It's beautifully done; the same character framework but in totaly contrasting lights.

And because ReBoot was the elite in terms of 90's children's television in terms of its writing, depth and structure, these parallels are apparent in their relationship and actions. One of the best ones, which was pointed out by the blog @vidwindow years ago, is a subtle one which I honestly didn't pick up on at first (goes to show that this show has so many layers so that each re-watch is a revelation... but I digress):

In the first episode of series 3, "To Mend and Defend", Megabyte salvages Hex and with a wicked grin and that thick sinister tone of his, tells Herr Doktor "I want her to have the best treatment, understand? The best." Cue evil laugh. Later in the same episode, Frisket gets hurt in the zombie game and when they get out, Dot asks the doctors to make sure Frisket gets "the best treatment possible. The best". Heartfelt, caring and true.

The contrast is startling and it is meant to be - Megabyte rebuilding his sister for enslavement, no qualms about her pain or suffering, versus Dot saving her brother's dog and companion, who is as much a family member to her as any of the sprites she shares her life with. It shows the same thought pattern but cast alternately in selfishness and selflessness. So very nicely done. Same coin, different sides. Bravo, ReBoot creators.

So being so similar, understanding Dot for Megabyte isn't really a problem. Of course he knows what her weaknesses are, because in many ways they're his own. He might not always get it right, not only because she's as smart as he is and they thus outwit each other on occasions, but also because they're both short-sighted at times. They look too far ahead, or simply don't see the woods for the trees, overthink. This is where having someone like Bob works a treat for Dot's team because he is much more grounded in the simpler things in life and less structured. Megabyte doesn't have that counterbalance.

So why might he know, or think he knows, what she wants in a partner? Well he has seen her dallying with Bob for cycles, ever since he set foot in Mainframe probably. And he's had enough time to study Bob, his enemy, who he also must be a little bit obsessed with. (Because arch enemies are. There's sexual tension there too, no mistake.) So he might not 100% know Dot's deepest desires and needs, but he probably has a good understanding of what it is about Bob that Dot adores and thus what it is that attracts her to someone.

And yet we also know Megabyte sees them never quite commiting to each other for cycles. Why don't they commit? Both too busy, too bashful, full of imposter syndrome. I digress again...

We know Megabyte is astute, that he's observant. We even see this at the end of series one where he intentionally manipulates Dot's self belief for his own gains - he was preying on her weaknesses long before she walked down the aisle to him.

We can thus only assume that during his long tenure in Mainframe, where he's in constant conflict with Bob and Dot, that he has had chance to discern what it is that blocks the development of Bob and Dot's relationship. And we witness multiple times, throughout each of the RB series, those elements of Bob and Dot's characters which clash. The episode "The TIFF" is literally about this. ("The Medusa Bug" also has some nice moments where Enzo and Bob try to get Dot to take some time off.) Bob is wonderfully rash, he doesn't plan ahead, he's jovial and fun, he wears his heart on his sleeve; Dot is the opposite in many respects. Hence why they work so well together.

But if we fast forward to series four and Megabyte disguising himself as Bob, how can we not assume that in creating this performance, in plotting how he can persuade Dot to accept his charade of Bob over the real sprite, that he doesn't capitalise on his past knowledge and experience? That in trying to win Dot's heart he play his cards right, that he adjusts Bob's "character failings" so he can present a sprite who is more articulate, more organised, and more calculated. (And when I say "failings", they're not - just those minor characteristics that irk Dot at times when emotions run high). By adjusting himself to Dot's personal preferences, by impressing her by singing from her proverbial hymn sheet and fitting himself to her "values" - and at the same time having the appearance of the classic Bob with added wit and charm - he sells Dot what she wants under the guise of the person she has always wanted, but has perhaps found, in some respects... wanting?

(There's also the complicated issue of Dot's mental health playing a big part which I shan't even get started on, I'll never stop.)

In truth what Megabyte does is sell Dot "Megabyte-in-disguise", hidden beneath Bob's shell. That's all. He's not very much Bob at all when you really watch it.

Is that what she wants? Megabyte? No. His morals, his values - the sheer fact he has set up what is incontravertably and terrifyingly a rape plot - are all a complete anathema to her. And yet we are reminded that they are similar and that in those similarities there is an element of concordance, of mutuality, separated by stark morality. That they can appreciate one another and are alike one another. And it is in that sparse ground that I plant my fanfic seeds and make them germinate because, though the chance is slim, I can make that notion sprout roots. There is a twisted parallel universe where they could be together and, though they would never be a peaceful match of concordance and romance, that pair of control freaks would be electrifying; it would be a relationship which would be a constant battle of one-up-man-ship, of power, dominance and control. Get out the whips and chains, they're here for it. How can one not to tempted by the sordid notion of such a match? They wouldn't make love, they'd make fire, bitches.

And on that note: Like a firewaaaallll...

Thanks for the ask, I loved this. I I hope that's helped? I don't even know if it makes sense. If not I've at the least I've given you an insight into my brain. Stay frosty!