#secret number soft icons

[zaczenemiji]

Hi! Just saw your request are open. I thought it would be a great to request a OS of Kenji Sato x Fem! Reader.

I got inspired by that song of "Too Sweet" from Hozier and I got the idea of how good is Reader with Emi, (since she knows he's Ultraman and also raises a baby Kaiju alone) such a Sunshine, even Emi sees her as a new maternal figure, he thinks she's too sweet, getting the idea of having kids with her but having the thought she deserves better.

But she thinks on the contrary, he's such a bad boy with a good heart. If you wanna add more things, it's up to you. I'll leave it to your imagination. Take your time and no need to rush. Take care.

Too Good, Too True

Kenji Sato x Reader

Word Count: 1,456

Genre/Warnings: Established Relationship, Found Family

Author’s Note: Particularly in love with this one, and Too Sweet plays rent-free in my head.

MASTERLIST

You know everything about Kenji: his past—the reason he’s distant from his dad, his secret—that he’s Ultraman, and his love child the 20-foot-tall kaiju baby in his basement.

You guys have been together for a long while now, even before everyone knew him as Ken Sato, the baseball star—the one whose name dominates the headlines.

With millions of adoring fans, you’re grateful you still have a place in his life. At first, there was a looming thought at the back of your head that tells you how easily replaceable you are.

No matter how you repress the thought, the fact remains that it is true. Who are you when compared to Kenji? You weren’t a model, an icon, a singer, or the daughter of a CEO—like all the other women waiting in line for him.

You were just… you. Simply (y/n) in her soft pastel and floral dresses. You don’t own a lot either, just a flower shop in LA. Your favorite hobby is tending to your garden where you grew the flowers that you sold.

All of your issues regarding this have long been resolved since Kenji has always been quick to reassure you of his love. That to him, everything and anyone else pails in comparison to you. He wishes you knew your impact on his life.

You have always been his breath of fresh air. It started at college during his baseball trainings, he’d wait for a certain girl to pass by. His eyes were always quick to find you among your group of friends.

On his games, you were his number one cheerleader. Your friends and his teammates were always so surprised to see the quiet dainty girl that you were yelling and cheering for his name.

Back when his mom was around, you got along with her so well. Kenji would find you and his mom in their kitchen baking cakes and making cute little pastries.

His mom loved having you around. You were always welcome at his house. When she found out that you were an international student who flew to LA alone and lived in a dorm, she almost wanted to adopt you.

But ain’t no way Kenji wanted to be just a brother in your life.

Many things have changed since then. In becoming a baseball star, half of his life was no longer private. In becoming Ultraman, his responsibilities were no longer limited to that of his career and personal life. And in becoming a daddy to a kaiju baby, he realized you deserve better.

You came over to his house every day to visit Emi. He admired your patience with her and how you were always a ray of sunshine to everyone, including a kaiju. And you’re not afraid of playing with her even if she could literally crush you out of nowhere.

You’d come over with fresh flowers picked from your parents’ garden. You’d make big flower crowns just for Emi and smaller ones for yourself and Mina.

Today was a particularly rough day as Kenji got home from a game. You wanted to accompany him today but he insisted for you to watch over Emi. He has been feeling like shit lately, not knowing what to do with Emi and his declining performance in his games.

Upon passing by the kitchen table, he sees a can of his favorite fizzy drink. Under it, a note. He lifted the can and read, “left this up here so mina won’t see (｡- .•)”

For the first time that day, he smiled. You’ve always told him how lucky you thought you were for being with someone as great as him. But the truth is, it’s the other way around.

In one go, he finished his drink so he could immediately head down to see you. You and Mina were too busy playing with Emi to notice him. He stayed at the lounge where he could see you from the other side of the glass.

There you were, beautiful, with flowers adorning your hair. You looked so pure and innocent. Your gentle demeanor had always put him at ease.

Your expressive eyes looked up at Emi in an attempt to communicate beyond words. Kenji loved your eyes. They were always filled with warmth and kindness but when you look at him, all he sees is love.

On the contrary, there’s him. He and his troubled past.

He is distant from his dad, wanting little to no connection with him. If it wasn’t for his mom, he wouldn’t have returned to Japan.

You weren’t like that. You had a good relationship with your parents. You deserve someone who could give you and your future children the same kind of environment you grew up in—peaceful and without the fear of the possibility that one day, your husband might not come home.

He worries he’d be like his dad, absent. He is Ultraman now. His duties would one day require him to be away, sometimes without notice and for extended periods. You deserve someone who can be there for you consistently.

He is constantly under the scrutiny of the public eye, both as Ultraman and the baseball star that he is. And the public is not often gentle. You deserve a private and peaceful life, away from the criticisms of society.

Kenji loves you dearly, he really does. But oftentimes, he thinks he’s not the best person for you. He thinks you deserve someone who can offer you a simpler and safer life.

Too deep in his thoughts, he failed to notice you enter the room. The kiss you gave on his cheek pulled him back to reality.

“Tough day?” You asked, sitting beside him on the couch.

“Yeah,” he nodded. “But I’m okay now. You’re here now.” He turned to look at you, his rest.

“Would you like to talk about your day?” You asked, reaching out to brush strands of his hair away from his face.

He shook his head. “I’d like to hear about yours first.”

You smiled, excited to tell him what you planned on doing. Since he’s staying here in Japan for good, you thought you would too. The flower shop in LA would be left in a good friend’s care. And here, you thought of working as a kindergarten teacher. You had doubts before but after being able to take care of Emi and enjoying it, you were now sure that this is the kind of job for you.

Kenji’s expression shifted upon knowing this. A shadow of doubt crossed his face. “What’s wrong?” you asked. “Do you not approve?”

“You deserve better,” he said, eyes falling downward before turning away to lean properly on the couch.

Confused, you leaned back as well. “Better job?” You asked. “Kenji, I think this is the bes—“

“Better than a guy who’s got a kaiju baby to take care of and a past, present, and future that’s complicated,” he continued his earlier statement, cutting you mid-sentence.

You were shocked. You never expected him to feel this way. You felt bad because for every time he assured you of his love, you failed to realize that he needed reassurance too.

“Oh no, Kenji,” you said. You turned his face to look at you, cupping it with both of your hands. “You’re a good man.”

“I’m worried, (y/n),” he said softly. “I worry that I can’t give you the life you deserve.“

He wants to marry you, he truly does. He dreamed of having children with you, teaching them, watching them grow. And when all is done, living the rest of his life with you.

When he passes by jewelry stores, he always thinks of you. He’d get in, and browse their selection of rings, but thinking of how you’re too sweet for him holds him back from buying.

"You're the best man for me, Kenji. Not despite your past and your duties, but because of them. They've shaped you into the person I love,” you told him.

“You're a wonderful father to Emi. And if you ever wanted more—if you ever wanted us to be more,” you leaned in to press your forehead on his. “I know you'll be an amazing father because of how you love me every day.”

Kenji closed his eyes, leaning into your touch, the tension slowly leaving his body. "You really believe that?"

"Every word," you said softly. "You are my home, Kenji. As long as we're together, I'm not afraid of anything."

He opened his eyes, looking at you with a mixture of relief and gratitude. "Thank you, (y/n),” he said. “I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You'll never have to find out," you replied, pulling him into a tight embrace.

Taglist is open! Comment if u wanna be tagged on future Kenji oneshots

@flowerloves

[lifewithroseglasses]

Pairing: Umemiya Hajime x f!reader (f! reader in mind but can be read as gn!reader)

WC: 728

CW: Alcohol, mentions of beer

A/N: Hey there, this is my first time sharing my writing. I'm feeling extremely nervous about it. The email really did happen at my first job after graduating!

@spookuna thank you for your support 💖

The bar is crowded. Its dimly lit corner filled with laughter and clinking of glasses. At a small, round table in the center, a group of coworkers leans in closer, their voices mingling with the bartender’s playlist of choice as they share tales of office frustrations, each drink in hand serving as a temporary escape from their corporate hellscape. Along the fringes, cozy booths cradle pairs of lovers, their playful giggles punctuated by whispers and stolen kisses, creating intimacy amidst the chaos. Nearby, at the polished wooden bar top, a pair of nervous first-daters fumble for comfort, their knees grazing awkwardly in the crowded space, each glance revealing a mix of anticipation and uncertainty about their budding connection. 

Seated at the far edge of the bar, Umemiya lounges comfortably on a high stool, his eyes glued to the flickering images of a cult comedy projected on the TV screen above the bartender’s head. He takes slow sips from a bottle of cold beer. The condensation forms droplets that trail down the neck of the bottle, creating a ring on the bartop. Clad in his iconic fitted white t-shirt, the fabric gently outlines his lean physique, while the round glasses perched on his nose--usually reserved for cozy evenings spent lost in the pages of his favorite novels--add a charm to his thoughtful demeanor. You slide onto the vacant barstool to his left, the one he intentionally left unoccupied, reserving it just for you. As you settle in, you carefully hook your work bag beneath the bartop, ensuring it's safely out of sight while also maintaining a sense of closeness to Hajime. 

“Hi baby,” Hajime greets warmly. His voice fills with a familiar affection as he shifts his gaze from the film to meet your eyes. A soft smile spreads across his lips, lighting up his steel gaze, and with a gentle lean forward, he closes the distance between the two of you, planting a tender kiss on your lips. Hajime twists his body and raises his index finger to signal a number one to the bartender. A moment later a cold beer is set down in front of you, mirroring the one already in front of Hajime. 

“Do you want to hear some juicy office gossip?” Hajime’s brow, marked with the deep scar that tells the story of his past trauma, arches in intrigue. His usually downturned eyes crinkle slightly, hinting at a flicker of interest at the prospect of something scandalous. He turns back to you, moving in closer, his posture eager and inviting, subtly urging you to spill the secret that sits at the tip of your tongue. “You might be worse than Nirei,” Hajime quips, “but I am listening.” A playful glint dances in his eyes and the smile that lit up his face moments ago lingers as he sips his beer.

“Okay, so remember the colleague I was telling you about who found out that her husband was cheating on her?” Hajime nods, clearly intrigued by what will come next. “Well, she composed an email stating that she is going to file for a divorce, attached a naked photograph of him, strategically edited to have the word ‘cheater’ embellished over his groin, and sent it to the entire department.” Hajime chuckles, shaking his head in disbelief, his eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and respect. “Now that takes guts,” he replies.

You take a sip of your beer and casually scan the dimly lit room, searching the faces of the other patrons for any signs of surprise or intrigue, wondering if they too had caught wind of the office scandal. As you continue weaving the tale, Hajime's laughter fills the air, momentarily lifting the weight of the surrounding chaos, and for a moment, it feels like you are the only two souls in the crowded bar. 

Talking to Hajime has always come naturally to you. From the very start of your relationship, you were amazed by the comfort he possesses, allowing you to freely share the whirlwind of thoughts swirling in your mind. Every time you spoke, his attentive gaze and warm demeanor reassured you that your words were safe, creating a sanctuary where you could express your deepest worries and dreams without fear of judgment or dismissal. Some years have passed since those days, yet the comfort you find in your conversations remains unchanged. 

[zuffer-weird-girl]

Where Hawks has a pregnant wife & she delivers easily with a healthy pair of twins, boy & girl, but she has complications afterwards. It takes hours, but the doctors say that she's a fight. She does eventually recover & despite being bleary, she basically goes, "Fuck that shit, I can't leave you alone to take care of them on your lonesone. Sorry Heihei, but you're stuck with me." She calls him Heihei when he says or does something real dumb &, according to her, the idea that she'd just give up & leave him without giving whatever Reaper that comes to collect a hell of a fight was real dumb.

"One of them has wings!" He spoke with wide eyes as he watched the picture of the ultrasound on his hands... his own pair of bright red feathers flapping and puffing at the image he held between his fingers.

"The doctor said that both of them are health." You spoke with a laugh while you sat down next to him.

Considering that both of you were still young you and him had your worries when you two discovered you were pregnant after only half of year living together. But thankfully you and your husband managed to work it out, despite Keigo's constant worrying...

Your smile dropped when you saw the serious expression he wore as he placed the ultrasound picture on the coffee table.... his messy bush eyebrows furrowed as his knee bounced slightly before coming to s stop when you placed a hand over it.

"What's on your mind heihei?" He widened his eyes a bit before chuckling at the sound of the iconic nickname you had given him before sighing.

"Deja vuu I guess... my father wasn't the best with dealing with me and honestly I think he despised my wings... I just thought that... how can you treat something so... small, and fragile like that? I mean, I almost teared up at just seeing the ultrasound..." he mumbled as you cupped his cheeks to gently place a kiss.

"That's because you are different than him. And that only means what a great father you will be." You smiled at him as his frown to be replaced by a soft brown eyed gaze to look back at you.

"You do have a way with your words dove..." he mumbled on your lips before kissing sweetly "I hope that those two get your attitude."

"Oh no, I lost that hope. They probably gonna be little shit just like you." He gasped in false offense as you laughed at his mocking hurt expression.

.

.

.

He honestly thought he almost crashed the window of his agency when he received the call... he was talking with Endeavor until his phone ringed with your number on its screen... only for him to answer and not to hear your voice, but from a paramedic.

The wind blew harshly at his feathers, hair and face. But he didn't care. He didn't care if looked good or not for the public when he discovered that in the middle of work his wife was about to give birth and he was once again far away from her.

He crashed inside the hospital and ignored all the coos of his fans for once as he almost tripped when he ran to the receptionist... who also was in glee to see him despite his fearfully and anxious expression.

"Please, I received a call my wife was about to give birth, where is she? Is she okay?!"

"Oh! You and your wife will have a kid?!" She exclaimed in shock as he mentally face palmed.

It was suppose to be a secret from the media and public... he begged you to it for you to just have a moment of peace and prevent the best you both could for you to have any stress to affect the twins.

"Y-yeah where-"

"Oh my Hawks-san congratulations!" She clapped her hands in glee while he was freacking out.

"Thanks. Where is she by the way? You already know her name so-" he tried to make his nerves with a charming laugh as she asked him to wait a minute as she talked on her phone only to minutes later to give the directions.

He bowed in thanks and rushed to the said directions only to be once again stopped by nurses and doctors.

"Where is she?! Is she okay?!"

"Sir please calm down a bit-" The male nurse tried but he knly freaked out more.

"Hawks san, I'm sorry but you can't enter right now. There were some complications and your wife had to go into a emergency c-section." The doctor spoke before gently parting him on the shoulder

"What?" He breathed in horror as his legs almost gave out.

"Get him a cup of water-" She instructed the nurses "I know is difficult, but try to remain calm, we are doing everything we can to make sure both your kid and your wife get out of this situation unharmed."

"Unharmed?! What the hell even happened while I was out?!"

"Sir I can't explain to you right now, they need me inside there. Now please sit on the waiting room and try to remain calm alright? Try to call a relative if it will help you out a bit..." She spoke gently before rushing to get her clothes to get inside the room you were in as he dropped on the chair... knees blucing at high speed as he grasped at his golden hair and pulled slightly as his eyes burned.

When a nurse handled him a cup of water he almost gagged when he spoke.

"P-Please, at least tell me if my wife has any chance of losing her life... or my kids..."

The nurse frowned at the hero before sighing the dreadfully words he surely didn't wanted to hear nor helped him at all.

"I dont know Hawks san. I don't know..."

.

.

.

It honestly took just a hour after what happened but to him it seemed he was sitting on that cursed waiting room chair for years.

When the same doctor appeared and took her mask off to show him a smile he visibly relaxed but his anxieties were still high as he stood up like a lightening bolt.

"Congratulations mister number two hero. You're now the father of one girl and one boy. Both clearly healthy."

He blinked tears away before he widened his eyes once again.

"How is she? Is she..-"

"She is fine and if you want you can enter right now-" before she could finish her sentence he stormed in and sobbed at seeing your tired figure laying on the bed while holding two bundles of blankets on both fo your arms.

You were okay... you were fine...

Your tired eyes spotted him on the entrance and a small smile appeared on your lips.

"Hello there daddy." You murmured as he carefully took steps closer to you before cupping your cheeks and peppering your sweaty face with kisses as he tried to keep his tears away.

"I'm so so sorry love.. I'm sorry you had to go through that alone, I'm sorry I couldn't be here for their birth, I'm sorry that i-"

"Heh now stop being ridiculous.. you were working and I suddenly happened, that's fine." You whispered as he kissed your forehead.

"God I thought I lost you ... the nurses and doctors wouldn't tell me and I just-"

"Did you seriously thought that I would let that happen you idiot?" You laughed weakly while he frowned "I can't just leave you alone to take care of two kids all by yourself. Sorry heihei, but you are stuck with me for good. Not even the geim reaper will take me away from you."

He let out a short laugh as he nuzzle the top of your head.

"How can you joke about stuff like that so occasionally, I mean come on I thought this was my thing..." he whispered before looking down at the two newborns sleeping on your arms.

He shakily exhaled when extended his arms as you smiled at him carefully grabbing the baby girl on his arms and sweetly carrying the blanket she was bundled up to feel the two little numbs on her small back where in some time it will grow wings.

"They're so beautiful..." he whispered in awe as you rocked the boy in your arms sweetly "Just like you..."

"Just like us..." You corrected him as he was still lost looking between both his son and daughter.

"... can I name the boy Enji the second-"

"If you dare to do that I'm kicking you out of this room right now Takami Keigo." You groaned in warning as he chuckled while apologizing.

He was still considering naming your kid that though.... please don't let him.

[autisticlancemcclain]

fic rec friday 15

welcome the the fifteenth fic rec friday! where, on friday, i rec five of my favourite fics.  

1. there, nestled against his pulse by @hiuythn

stop why are you doing this to me stop it stop it stop--

klance soulmate au where your right wrist has the first words your soulmate says to you, and the left holds the last words they'll say to you. super sad, so much angst, and i've been informed it'll make you sob until you choke.

1. there, nestled against his pulse (the main story, from Keith's POV) 2. this is what love looks like: (tnahp from Lance's POV + 38k of sequel content) 3. roll credits (deleted/extra scenes and additional headcanons)

okay. i am so desperately obsessed with this fic, i was obsessed with it the first time i read it and im obsessed with it now. and yes i know i did all hiuythn fics last week and i promise i wont this week. BUT i have a set of comments associated with this fic bc it is Just That Good and so i shall present them to u now:

- literally the funniest characterization of shiro i’ve ever read. this shiro is gay and tired. this shiro unironically and frequently says “move. i’m gay” and gets away with it at the garrison. this shiro has been through A Lot and just wants to fucking retire - allura here is so so funny she’s such a badass. she’s giving “i love shiny things! like the shine of your spilled blood on the floor if you say that dumb shit one more fucking time!!” we stan a queen. - coran is a Mood. this man is desperately trying to reign in four teenagers and two young adults and just wants to go to bed and also he cares for them all so so much. ultimate dad - pidge is Mischief Personified. she is a brat and i adore her. she’s here to cause problems and by god she will succeed - hunk is so done it’s so fucking funny. “that’s literally impossible.” he’s a genius and he knows it, he’s glad to call you out on your bullshit. he doesn’t even TRY to pretend he can keep a secret and/or handle drama god what a mood - don’t even get me started on klance!! they’re so funny omg. the banter is EXQUISITE. lance and keith adore each other so much and they’re so badass. literally the coolest power couple fight scenes ever to be made, i do adore. gosh. and the ROMANCE they are so devoted to each other i’m emotional - honourable mention of lance’s legs and keith’a Soft Squishy Feelings that are mentioned so often that they’re characters. iconic. all in all, the best way to describe this series is Gay and Tired. i love it and i’m sad to see it end. i will be rereading it an embarrassing number of times. infinity/10

2. all the little things by @jilliancares

Or: 5 times Keith let Lance get away with things that he'd never let anyone else do, and 1 time Lance realized that he was, apparently, special

oblivious lance will always be funny to me. and the idea of keith just letting lance get away with Everything and Everyone knowing how whipped he is except for lance himself?? peak humour. never not funny

3. Full Disclosure by @dragonomatopoeia

Keith is impulsive and straightforward when it comes to most things, and emotions are no exception. It's no surprise, then, that when he realises that he might have developed a crush on Lance, he tries to tell him immediately. Unfortunately, it's very hard to account for both circumstance and who Lance is as a person.

Alternatively: Four Times Keith Tried to Confess and One Time Lance Actually Understood

more 2016 eliteness!! this fic is hilarious. and also its number one selling quality is that all of the characters are trans and nd i literally love that for them. nonbinary hunk loml

4. catch me, before i fall by @pastelrainbow

‘We are a good team.’

Even now, just recalling the way Lance had smiled as the words left his lips, made Keith’s heart race and his cheeks redden. Lance had never looked at him so fondly before. No boy ever had. The thought of it made a sigh escape his lips and Keith hunched his shoulders, a pout tugging his lips downwards.

Curse my weak gay heart.

-

a what if keith caught lance outside his cryo-pod.

the idea of keith being a suave casanova with more game than aphrodite herself but immediately going bright red and hissing when shiro teases him. peak dynamic. absolutely nailed siblings 

5. of demons and dates by spartona (faveour)

Three times Keith scares Lance shitless with his ghost shenanigans, and one time Lance tries to retaliate.

first of all. BFU KLANCE BFU KLANCE BFU KLANCE. second of all. the  “we’ve BEEN dating u dumbass ily” trope is so funny to me. i will never get over it

that’s it for today!! i’ll see y’all back next friday for the next fic rec post!!!

[best-underrated-anime]

Anime of the Day: Kekkai Sensen

[The Anime of the Day series will feature two anime each day from the list of shows that, for a variety of reasons, didn’t make it to the final list of shows that will be joining the tournament.]

“Secret organization protects world from vampires/monsters”

Summary:

Supersonic monkeys, vampires, talking fishmen, and all sorts of different supernatural monsters living alongside humans—this has been part of daily life in Hellsalem's Lot, formerly known as New York City, for some time now. When a gateway between Earth and the Beyond opened three years ago, New Yorkers and creatures from the other dimension alike were trapped in an impenetrable bubble and were forced to live together. Libra is a secret organization composed of eccentrics and superhumans, tasked with keeping order in the city and making sure that chaos doesn't spread to the rest of the world. Pursuing photography as a hobby, Leonardo Watch is living a normal life with his parents and sister. But when he obtains the "All-seeing Eyes of the Gods" at the expense of his sister's eyesight, he goes to Hellsalem's Lot in order to help her by finding answers about the mysterious powers he received. He soon runs into Libra, and when Leo unexpectedly joins their ranks, he gets more than what he bargained for. Kekkai Sensen follows Leo's misadventures in the strangest place on Earth with his equally strange comrades—as the ordinary boy unwittingly sees his life take a turn for the extraordinary.

Propaganda:

(Admin: Three people submitted this show, so there’ll be three separate propagandas)

1:

Kekkai Sensen is a sci-fi action manga from the author of Trigun that revolves around an ordinary guy with the weight of the world on his shoulders. He can’t really fight, but he’s determined to make his way in a city where people die at the drop of a hat. A web of tragedies and crime and crazy coincidences is spinning around his arrival in the city, and a dark plot is brewing that could risk the fate of the world. The story is compelling, comedic, fast-paced, and gorgeously animated. Fans of mystery, action, sci-fi, fantasy, comedy, and even more will all find something to adore about this series’ story and characters—not to mention its iconic soundtrack and stunning visuals.

2:

Super interesting story with a well-balanced and fun cast of characters. There’s someone for everyone and open the top flashy action scenes. The characters are especially endearing with how they interact with each other

3:

Most people remember the show from the ending that everyone was making edits for. This show is outstanding, and the last episode changed me as a person, and I’m still not sure how or why. It’s from the creator of Trigun and has incredible music from jazzy numbers to soft and sweet ones. The characters are great, and the voice talent is even better. It’s funny, cute, and sometimes serious. Also found family for the win.

(Admin: To the three who submitted, seriously, not one of you found a trailer that wasn’t dubbed? I couldn’t find one, either.)

[birdkeeperklink]

10 characters 10 fandoms

I was tagged by @salsedine ages ago (thank you! 👋🥰) and finally getting around to it!

So these are in no particular order even though they're numbered, but here we go:

1. Leonard McCoy from Star Trek: The Original Series

I love his gruff exterior coupled with how much he cares really deeply. He's passionate and full of fire, but he's also so compassionate and caring. He's a healer, but instead of embodying the "saint-like" version of that trope, he's all too human and flawed. I adore him.

2. Joan Watson and Sherlock Holmes from Elementary

Yes, I am cheating, but they are sold as a set do not separate 🤷

I just love both of them. I love the way they interact, and their partnership in every sense of the word. They're funky and unapologetic about it, and they can be sharp and vindictive, but they can also be so, so soft and caring, both to each other and to others.

3. Jaime Lannister from Game of Thrones

He's slick and snarky and talented. He's in a nasty codependent romance with his sister. He's incredibly insecure yet incredibly cocky. He's so so brave and stupid. He's in love with Brienne and shows it by giving her a sword. He's a hot mess. Just a complete disaster of a human. I love it. I want to study him in a jar.

4. Sam from Lord of the Rings

He's a cinnamon roll, does this need more explanation? 🤷

5. Leslie Knope from Parks and Rec

She never, ever gives up, and she believes so hard in making the world a better place, and she loves her friends so much, and.... She's just inspiring. She's a character who gives me energy and makes me feel like things can get better and good people can make a difference.

6. Bilbo Baggins from The Hobbit

My boy 🥹 He is fierce and loyal and cunning, and he's got a temper and can somehow get away with scolding people twice his size. The bitch energy is at epic levels, and yet he's also somehow so caring. He is an icon, a legend. We can only aspire to such sass and love as is packed in this tiny man.

7. Basil from The Great Mouse Detective

He's ridiculously cute and smart. I love how he pretty much adopted Dawson as His within like 5 seconds of meeting him. He's also a secret softie, getting all testy with Olivia only to pretty much immediately cave when she starts crying. Plus he's Sherlock Holmes as a mouse. Only wins here.

8. Richard from Galavant

He's a pathetic noodle of a man who's committed horrible atrocities by his own admission, yet he still manages to make you want to give him a hug. What a disaster man. I adore him.

9. Alan Grant from Jurassic Park/World

He's got a PhD but can't figure out a seat belt. He's clearly madly in love with Ellie but takes like 30 years to admit that he'd rather have her than his career. Yet again, a complete disaster. Are you sensing a pattern?

10. Bek from Gods of Egypt

Yes, I know this movie has problems, first and foremost the whitewashing, but I can't help it 🙈 Bek in particular is just 👌 He's so determined and spunky. He says cheesy one-liners to himself while stealing from literal gods. He's blasphemous to the gods' faces. The love of his life is killed and his immediate response is to blackmail a god into bringing her back to life. He's lucky and brash. I love him.

No pressure tagging:

@the-chickenshit-oddity @lassiesspanishaccent @lenievi @figsandfandoms @51kas81 @mourningroutine @underture @lovethistoomuch

You don't have to if you don't want to, but if you do - tag! You're it!

[spinningbuster98]

Castlevania Symphony of the Night Part 3: Regional Differences

So...to go back for a second to the fact that I’m playing a translated Japanese version, let’s talk about cut content!

There are a couple of things that were cut from this game when it was released overseas, mostly minor objects that would have required some further localization which the team probably didn’t wanna be bothered with

For starters: there are 2 hidden familiars in the original version that are not present in western releases (PSP port notwithstanding)

In the hidden room where you’d otherwise find the Holy Sword you instead find the Nose Demon! He’s essentially a reskin of the normal Demon familiar you get later on, except he’s got a funny face and voice lines. Supposedly he’s based on a popular japanese comedian of the time, so I assume that the reason he was cut was because the joke would have flown over us westerners’ heads

In the room where you’d find the Sword familiar you instead find the Half-Fairy. She works exactly like the normal Fairy except she has different voice lines....and a very cool easter egg attatched to her: if you sit on a chair and don’t move for a couple of minutes she will sit on Alucard’s shoulder and there’s a chance (it’s random and she would not cooperate with me at first here) that she will then start singing this beautiful little melody which I’m going to show off next time :)

I’m going to assume that the reason this one was cut is because not only would they have to translate the song but also have someone sing it and given the quality of the english voice cast yeah forget it

There are other, minor differences, such as the ghostly priest in the Cathedral actually having a voice line where he does a little prayer while he’s totally mute in the international release

Speaking of the english voice cast I guess I’m sort of obligated to talk about them eh? Well let’s go over them!

Rober Belgrade as Alucard should not work for all intents and purposes, mainly because the actual tone of his voice is the literal opposite of his japanese va (same guy who voices Zero in Megaman X btw): Alucard is supposed to be an elegant, refined yet coldly stoic prince, so a soft voice that can still command respect fits him, while Belgrade is far too baritone. Yet despite this he still ends up sounding iconic because he’s pretty much the only person in this cast who genuinely tried to do his best. It’s a case where the voice itself shouldn’t fit but the delivery of the lines saves it

Dracula’s va (same guys who voiced the protagonist of Silent Hill 1 btw) sounds like he was convinced he was supposed to perform a parody of a Shakesperean play, he sounds so over the top he ends up sounding funny. The voice itself does not match the artwork nor the general idea of Dracula as this dark and intimidating figure

I don’t wanna harp on too much on Richter’s va (same va as Chris Redfield from RE1 btw) since the man died a bunch of years ago, but....yeah he was clearly reading his lines in the opening. He gets a little better in the rest of the game but that’s the extent of it

I’ve heard folks say that they can’t stand Maria’s younger sounding voice in the PSP port because she “doesn’t sound mature enough”, to which I ask: You do know she’s 17 here right? Granted I used to know girls in High School that had relatively deep voices, but Maria here straight up sounds like your average sultry sexy lady, much older than what she’s supposed to be, while she’s actually supposed to be a more mature version of her Rondo self: still pretty upbeat and cheerful but with more maturity on her

Lastly let’s talked about flimsy localization!

One of my biggest gripes against SOTN for the longest times was the number of secret moves and features the game does not tell you about

Some of these I’ve never minded because they’re minor and I can understand why they’d be secret, for example the secret moves that some weapons can perform? Just a cool little thing that you can accidentaly find out on your own while fumbling with the controls (which happened to me). The ability to use any spell without buying them at the shop by just knowing their commands? Well late game spells destroy the early game so of course it’d be a secret, plus again you can discover this accidentally on your own. The Shield Rod spells? Well those HAD to be secrets. The Wing Smash? That...I’m more salty about because Alucard’s flight is slow as sin without it but whatever

My real issue was always with the High Jump and the Skill of Wolf power ups, mainly because you had to find the correct relics for them...but then the game wouldn’t tell you how to actually use them (technically speaking you can still boost with the wolf after acquiring thePower of Wolf Relic, but no version of the game, not even the Japanese one, tells you how to do it with this Relic alone. Tbf it’s a very simple command, just double tap either left or right, but the Skill of Wolf Relic actually allows you to immediately run on a whim with no build up, thus allowing you to use the ability much more frequently)! Not only is this dumb because, while not strictly vital, these moves speed up exploration big time (especially in the Inverted Castle) but also because it made the feeling of discovering these relics pretty moot.

That is until I played the japanese version! Turns out that in this original version the in-game relic descriptions for these two actually DO contain the button inputs for how to use them. Just to be sure I even briefly played through an untranslated japanese rom and lo and behold!

I may not be able to read kanji, but I can recognize arrows meant to represent button inputs!

So thank you english localization for making me think for over 10 years that Sotn was more cryptic than it actually is :)

[nekko-astrocat]

769...773...777...781...

No 779. Where was it? 776, and 782. Not across the street. 785, not out of order either.

Adelon lifted the tag on the backpack towards the streetlamp to check the address again.

779 Cherry Street, Honesty Washington. A neatly written address on a tag telling any who found the backpack to return it to its owner, the Astral Cat Tavern.

How a tavern had lost a backpack on the other side of the country was beyond Adelon. All he knew was he had been on this crusade of curiosity too long to give up now.

Turning back to the houses. 777, then 781. Not just that, but this was the middle of a street in the suburbs. Every house eerily similar in appearance with its neighbors. One would think a tavern here would be easier to see than a flare over the open sea on a calm night.

Adelon stood and stared into the darkness between the houses for a time, until the moon peeked from behind the clouds to see what he was staring at.

A sparkle of silver drew Adelon's focus back to the tag. Where the moonlight touched it, a set of silver symbols was beginning to appear.

Adelon placed the tag further within the grasp of the moon, revealing the secret writing. As Adalon tried to understand the strange symbols a bubble of odd and twisting energy built up inside his chest. Then it floated up his throat and burst, releasing an unspeakable word of an unknowable realm from his lips.

A soft yellow glow joins the midnight lighting. Adelon turned to look, to see which house awoke. As his eyes began to search the newly lit window for life a sign flickered with beckoning light. Neon blue creating a circular pattern in the window, then one by one as if each had to be lit with its own switch neon red numbers came to life. 7...7...9.

Leaving the street lamp behind Adelon shouldered the bag and made his way across the moonlit street to the darkened doorway that stood at the end of his crusade.

The door was heavy and wooden. An icon of a cat sat in faded paint upon it, watching Adelon's approach. It had two pure white eyes and what appeared to be a pale four pointed star on its forehead. Its tail, wrapped around its feet, a twin-split appendage.

No handle was present on the door, and the stare of the icon warned one against the rapping of knuckles upon its head. Instead, once more, the alien word writhed and floated up through Adelon's chest. As if a password to a hidden world beyond. No sooner had the word wrenched itself from him again, the door opened, granting Adelon entry to the building.

Beyond the open portal was a room with a scattering of empty tables and an unmanned bar. An array of strangely colored bottles and liquid resting on shelves and in tubes.

"Hello?"

A hesitant greeting paired with the creaking of wooden floorboards announced Adelon's entry.

He weaved through the tables and chairs as he looked around for any signs of life.

"We're not open yet."

Adelon whirled to spot the owner of the rumbling voice but saw only a purple cat sat upon the bar. Its tails wrapped around its feet as it stared at Adelon with shimmering yellow eyes.

Adelon stared at the living icon from the door. Then called out once more into the hostless bar as he closed the distance to the cat.

"I found your bag!"

Adelon shifted the bag from his shoulder to the bar-top as the cat-like creature stared at him unblinking. No sign of the person who had spoken before.

Adelon stared back into the yellow orbs and blinked when he realized the black pupils were four-pointed stars. As he blinked and backed away a little, those eyes shifted to the backpack and narrowed into crosshairs.

Then it moved, and as it moved it rumbled, and is it rumbled the voice spoke again.

"Thank you. It took more time to come back then usual."

Adelon stood frozen for a moment as he realized the rumbling voice came from the cat-thing.

It sniffed the bag, satisfying its own curiosity.

"Seems you've traveled a fair distance, there and back again," the cat addressed the bag.

Adelon stabbed at the opportunity to regain his grasp on the moment.

"I found it under a bench at a bus station on the other side of the country."

The pale gaze returned to him briefly before a nod acknowledged his addition. Then the twin-tail dipped below the bar and returned with a silver bell in its grasp.

"I didn't open it," Adelon added trying to chop at the silence, "it doesn't really have a zipper so I couldn't even if I had wanted to... so..."

Adelon was unsure of how to speak with the animalistic creature.

The cat nodded, again.

The tails flicked toward the backpack. The bell, when rung reverberated and echoed, it's metallic tone seeming to travel through time more than space. It started low then rose to a high-pitched 'ting-ting' before returning to its lower pitch as if a temporal doppler had carried it to this specific moment.

As the sound struck across time-space, the bag began to twist and writhe before unzipping in a burst of motion at the height of the bells ring.

Bone white marionette pieces flew from the backpack onto the floor, and their shadow gave aggressive chase as they clattered between the chairs. The shadow zipped over them, gathering them up within it's darkness.

As it tumbled to a stop with all its parts recovered, the shadow turned and hissed at the two observers. A panther-like face providing a maw for the radio static roar to emerge from.

The tails flicked the bell again, causing the ting-ting to echo back across time into this new moment.

The shadow-creature pulled away from the sound, then up into a standing position. The clicking sounds of marionette pieces being fitted together accompanying the shift from predator to person.

A woman with ebony skin and hair like black sheep's wool wore the darkness like a velvet dress and silken shawl.

"Naut." She referred to the cat.

"Lucy Bell." it purred the name in reply.

"Sorry for running away for so long. I just wanted to get out and see some places."

A pause between the shadow's speaking and the rumbling replies.

"Good places can be just as soothing for the soul as good people." The cat rose to walk across the bar again and gave Adelon a side eye as it spoke.

Lucy Bell's steps clacked as she rushed to take her place behind the bar. Her hair sinched into a bun with a pull of black ribbons, her dress sewing itself into a suit-vest, shirt, and pants as she took her position on Naut's right hand.

"Take a seat, stranger."

The twin-tails swept in the direction of a stool before wrapping around the feet of the cat once more.

Adelon sat.

Naut smelled his hands.

"You smell faintly of squid, boy. Squid and blood."

The crosshairs focused on him for a moment before expanding into stars.

"Have you ever tried unicorn's blood?"

The tails slithered away, as Adelon shook his head slowly. A third tail appeared to assist with carrying a bottle into the hands of Lucy Bell.

An ice-filled glass settled on the bar-top and a metallic pink liquid shimmering with glitter filled it. A graceful hand placed a garnish of blue butterfly wings in the place of an umbrella.

A tail pushed the drink to Adelon.

"As thanks for a good deed done. Welcome to the Astral Cat Tavern, friend."

[purplekoop]

Things I Love #2: WATCH OJAMAJO DOREMI.

Okay so. context.

A while back, way earlier this year if memory serves correctly, my friend Dyna (y'know from the streams) found a peculiar song in the girl idol band rhythm game they like. Upon investigating, they learned that was an official cover of the theme song for a 1999 magical girl anime with a very niche cult following here in the states. They looked into it further, watched a video explaining why the show is so great, saw it for themselves, and after becoming thoroughly obsessed, convinced me somehow to watch the entire 200+ episode run with them.

And it. was.

Worth it.

I say it without an ATOM of hyperbole that this is genuinely one of the best shows I've ever seen. Like. Seriously, no bits no laughs no nothing, this silly little pastel-colored show is utterly phenomenal in more ways that I can do it justice. It's genuinely that good. It's hilarious, it's intense, and it made me cry and intensely hilarious number of times. It's legitimately a show that makes me happier to be alive when I think about it.

And one of the main cast members looks like this for the majority of the show.

...Okay maybe it deserves a little more context.

So, okay, plot summary:

Doremi (the pink one) is a silly, short-tempered, and chronically unlucky grade schooler who kind of sucks at... most things, to be frank. And one thing she sucks at that actually bothers her is her inability to muster up the courage to one day confess to a boy she likes. Logically, the only way she'd be able to confess is if she had magic, so she's also obsessed with witches, and one day becoming a witch herself. (Good news for her incoming.)

One day, she goes to a mysterious old house, and finds an equally mysterious woman inside with a cat. Just kind of, y'know, as a hunch. She accuses the woman of being a witch, which causes her to spontaneously turn into the green creature seen above.

This is Majo Rika, a genuine article but short-tempered witch, and the cat is secretly her fairy companion Lala. When a witch's identity is found out by a human, they get cursed into being a silly little creature known as a Witch Frog, and the only way to turn back into their original form is for the human who found them out to become a witch themself, and then use their magic to turn the witch frog back to normal. This, very conveniently, means Doremi now has to become a Witch Apprentice, learn magic, pass the apprentice exams, and eventually earn the honor of becoming a full witch herself.

Along the way, some of Doremi's friends get caught up in the secret, including her childhood friend Hazuki, the soft-spoken sweetheart (and my favorite of the apprentices but quite not my favorite character outright), and the new transfer student Aiko, the cool-headed tomboy who rocks the blue. Together, they all train to be witch apprentices, learning under Majo Rika, and working at her house, which is turned into a magical crafts shop, the Maho Dou. A few more witch apprentices join them along the way, but aside from them they have to keep their witchy business a secret from everyone else.

Now that we've established the basics, I think I'll continue the tradition of posting the show's theme song in each of these. Doremi has a 4-ish season run, with each season getting its own OP in standard anime fare, but I think the first and most iconic opening, Ojamajo Carnival, should suffice:

Oh yeah, might help to explain what "Ojamajo" means. It's a pun that roughly means "bothersome witch", since "Majo" is "Witch" and "Ojama" means "bothersome" or "annoying." So the title would more directly be "Bothersome Witch Doremi" but literally everyone prefers "Ojamajo" so. yeah.

Anyways, theme song shows a lot about the show that's great.

For one is the art style, which I'd say is "pleasant" in the most intensely delightful sense of the word. The designs themselves are all nice, soft, and delightful, with hardly a sharp corner in sight and a real sense of childlike whimsy permeating through it all. The general color palette and style of the show also just has a nostalgic fuzziness, even after the show's technical quality improves over its 4 year run. And the animation I adored as soon as episode 1, with characters frequently deforming to goofy faces and round nub hands right out of Animal Crossing. Hey, I don't blame them, I wouldn't wanna draw full hands for over 200 episodes either.

Another thing is the soundtrack. I don't know what terms to describe its genre, but beyond just the bombastic opening, with its cheery violin, twangy guitar, and overall exuberant joy, the soundtrack for each episode is also full of bangers. There's upbeat jazz to stir up excitement for energetic scenes, pleasant standard background tracks, and even some unexpectedly tense tracks for some dramatic scenes. This is also a show that will make you cry, and that includes even just from the ending themes. Here's season 1's:

That plays during an episode and I become a sopping mess without fail. Gets me every time.

The other big thing is arguably the show's biggest strength: its cast. While I won't go in-depth on the main cast, both for the sake of spoilers and because people have done that better than me already, I will give the show its due respect for its more broad cast. As the intro implies, the girls' entire class are notable side characters. While a good number of episodes focus on magical trials and hijinks, the majority of the show actually has the girls encounter a problem their classmates are facing, and then secretly use magic to help solve that problem. It's a formula that not only keeps things fresh with making different side characters the spotlight of an episode, but also rewards following along as the show progresses. Even the most obscure background classmates (save for I think ONE exception) will be the focus of an episode, and remember how Doremi and the gang helped them out. You can even see characters from past episodes in almost every group shot, and get to go "oh hey it's that kid!" in a really satisfying way. It really helps add to the childhood feel of the show, since... yeah, back then, your classmates were the stars of each day's adventures, and even if you weren't close friends you still knew their names would hang out every day. The teachers are also great characters in their own rights, again hearkening back to elementary days where teachers really were there for you. The cast isn't limited to the classroom though. The girls' families often factor into their more personal episode plots as well. And the magical side of things has its own small recurring cast. Witches actually reside in, another dimension known as the Witch World, a pastel-colored world with a striking visual appeal of its own right, and is also home to a cast of additional witch characters that get introduced over the course of the show.

Of course, the only important one is the underhanded saleswitch who barges into the Maho Dou with a smile and a song:

Dela.

Yeah no she's the best character and nothing's changing that.

Not kidding about her song by the way:

Literally every single time she appears, she sings a unique (shorter) version of this song to announce her arrival. It's fantastic.

So yeah, that's the basics of what makes this show great, but like... again, this show is insane, and there is SO much more I could say but won't, I'd rather people just experience it for themselves.

Which... brings us to how you experience this show yourself.

I should explain first that Doremi didn't take off in the west. Unlike her home country, which still has a dedicated fanbase who remembers the show fondly, English-speaking countries were stuck with...

*dramatic lightning crash*

the 4kids dub.

The dub, otherwise known as Magical DoReMi, is widely considered to be a downgrade from the original by fans. Look up the opening compared to the original and you'll see what I mean. Though the quality is one thing, the real way 4kids screwed the show over was by greatly limiting its airtime due to it being "another boring girl show", kneecapping its potential popularity severely. They only ever dubbed the first season, and the second half of that was limited to an online-only release if I remember right.

Now, while the show itself was a relatively failure over here, apparently toy sales didn't do too bad actually. And I know that specifically, because when I told my partner I was watching Doremi, they went "Wait WHAT" and proceeded to show me pictures of their childhood Doremi toys. Apparently they even came with a bonus DVD, though only for one episode. My friend Seven also had Doremi toys and a bonus DVD of that one episode too, so uh... small world, huh?

But yeah, with this in mind, it shouldn't be surprising that Doremi has such a limited english-speaking fanbase, and thus should be even less surprising that there is no official way to watch the show here. There is no newer dub of the whole show, and no official subtitles. I managed to watch the show thanks to the efforts of fanmade subs, and though there's some unfortunate dated language early on, it's otherwise an extremely commendable effort that I can't thank enough for making it possible. As for how to access this subbed version... I mean come on, if you're reading this, you're an adult on the internet, you can figure out how. I know pity for corporations is comically low on this site but if you need help feeling better about it, remember that there is no way to officially watch the show as an english speaker. If they do make official subs and stream the show somewhere, I'll let you know, but that seems extremely unlikely.

As for what you watch then, Doremi has 4 main seasons of roughly 50 episodes each, and then one weird bonus season. Each season after the first one has a subtitle: season 2 is Ojamajo Doremi Sharp, 3 is Motto, and 4 is Dokkan. There's also Naisho, a shorter set of about 17 episodes that takes place during the same time as Motto, but was made years after the main show originally ended. I watched episodes of Naisho sprinkled in with my watchthrough of Motto, but there's also merit to watching it in release order, at least the final episode. There are also two episode-length "movies" that take place about midway through a couple seasons: one for Sharp, and one for Motto. Finally, made for the 20th anniversary back in 2020, there's the feature-length film "Looking for Ojamajo Doremi", which was the final thing of the show I watched, and just finished tonight actually. It's not directly in the same "canon" as the show itself, but I highly recommend it as a great finale to a watchthrough of the show as a whole.

It's a long ride, but it's worth it. I genuinely wouldn't skip any episodes, as again, even minor characters are worth remembering for later. It's not a show with "filler", because what you're there for is a simple and relaxing slice of life style show that takes it easy to appreciate the mundane joys of just being nice and helping others. Plus, it makes the absolutely fantastic gut punch of a finale all the more worth it.

I really can't say enough about this show. It's genuinely better than I can put into words. If you have the time (and a soul) then please, PLEAAAASE consider giving it a watch, I swear it's worth it.

So that's this Things I Love. Not sure what the next one will be actually. These won't all be shows, so maybe expect a game next? Could also be a show that I'm due to finish a watch or rewatch of too, like a certain other show where a weird girl stumbles into a witch and her creature companion, and then learns to be a witch herself. We'll see though. In the meantime, uhhh... Rabbids? I think I was talking about Rabbids for some reason.

[twinkleember]

My Homie challenged me with this.

Character: Number 96, Dark Mist, Black Mist, Anger issues ghost.

Character ask game!

A classic character ask game lol, but with a little deeper digging into them

Send a character and a number/several numbers, and i'll answer:

My first impression of them Honestly? I saw him as a facebook icon from my homie and thought he was super weird.

When I think I truly started to like them Until I got to see clips of his personality. Now I smother myself in Mist content.

A song that reminds me of them Solence - Heaven

How many people I ship them with I have two AU's for him. so....two.

My favorite ship of them Dats a secret.

My least favorite ship of them Tentacle/Lock ship - Just personal preference. I don't hate it. I just find it odd.

A quote of them that you remember "Sentimental mumbo-jumbo" "Because I can."

Your favorite outfit of them er.....he's naked? but I do like the human clothing I gave him haha.

Your least favorite outfit of them again. he be naked.

Describe the character in one sentence Impulsive, quick to anger, loveable douchebag.

What’s the first thing you think about when thinking about the character? The character I ship with him. and his dub voice. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

Sexuality hc! Normally? very gay. but depending on the AU. Prolly Pan.

Your favorite friendship they have I wouldn't say friendship. If we go by AU. its more acquaintance? but if we go by canon. Joining Astral and yuma as an 'ally' in that one duel. He's a fussy potato :/

Best storyline they had Any time he was visible in the show. gimme more screen time you lovable douche!

Worst storyline they had We dun talk about this stupid Puppet.

A childhood headcanon When he was a wee ink bloob. nah seriously. He didn't have one lol.

What do you think their first word was? "it means, when you dropped your key I was able to escape." aww babies first words of potential malice!

How do you think they were as a kid? (Like, were they shy, noisy, wild, etc) Aggressive chaos bloob noises.

The most random ship you've seen people have with them Vector and Mist? I dunno. I don't see many other ships around with him specifically with canon characters.

A weird headcanon When Mist is all soft and caring...for some reason.

When do you think they were at their happiest? When he took steroids/Chaos/Barian power form.

When do you think they were at their lowest? I guess when he got so salty/mad at Astral in the temple duel. Not gunna lie, it made me chuckle.

Future headcanon No puppet allowed! if he yeeted himself to get to Astral. There would be an alternative to restore him and have him be a further pain in the ass.

What do you think is a secret they have that they never told anyone? Swiggity swooty, Comin for that Astral booty~

When do you think they acted the most ooc I don't recall he ever did? I would beat him with a rolled up newspaper if he did. Get back to being evil!

When do you think they were being "themselves" the most? every time his ass appeared on screen?

If they could meet a character from another show/movie/etc, who would be the most fun for them to meet? I'm going video game. Diablo from Diablo 3. They both want power and destruction and both look fabulous.

The most unnecessary thing they ever did? When he possessed the major. like. I understand you were screwing with humans, but I don't think you can get very far my dude xD

How do you think they would be as a parent? (and if they are a parent, how do you think they would be if they weren't?) I aint touching this with a ten foot pole.

The funniest scene they had?

not so much scene. More like how he can be such a salty sandra and get super mad when things don't go his way.

Source: https://www.tumblr.com/ask-games-from-a-weird-girl/673569359300640768/character-ask-game

[escapadeist]

heres some questions! what (and WHY) are your fav red tv songs? DID U see those clue compilation videos that say speak now is next? do u think SOFT ts era will come back? lastly are you BLOCKing the tumblr bots or just ignoring them (unlike ME)

So this is just a regular update ask. It's one of those.

1. My favourites on Red TV are -

Forever Winter - the theme of suicide and someone being so close to their breaking point, and u not knowing what to do other than love them when they can't love themselves, it just spoke to me. I have been difficult to love, still am *cool gal finger guns* so ik how it must be on the receiving end of it. Also, reminded me of this other very famous song called How To Save A Life by The Fray

Better Man - Have always loved it, heard it back when it was sung by Little Big Town, then heard the Bluebird cafe version where Taylor sang it live for the first time (fuck Scott Borschetta for ruining that video with his "commentary") and then ofcourse this Red Tv version just blew me away. Again, the idea of leaving because something got so beyond toxic, for your own sake, is something i relate to, all too well.. Plus, u should really watch the Little Big Town mv, it has got some pleasing visuals.

and ofcourse All Too Well 10 Min version (yay for the grammy win!)... What do i say about this song that's already not been said? I loved the choice of actors for the short film, Sadie is such a sweetheart and Dylan was and still is very mmm... I think this being her intro to proper directing will eventually lead us to some even more beautiful adventures. She has always been a storyteller, right from Speak Now World Tour cinematics, to Fearless' Love Story to 1989's Wildest Dreams. I just love how she can single-handedly create this entire universe of a myriad of niche storylines that are like a secret between her and her fans. All Too Well was my fav ever since i first heard it, albeit that was quite late.. but oh well... I guess time wouldn't fly and I stood there just paralysed by it.

2. Which clue compilation vids? I just saw the hints and easter eggs related to all the mvs of Midnights. Lavender Haze has some clues as well, and so did Bejeweled.

3. By Soft TS era if u mean her Folklore Evermore style, I certainly hope so. I loved those styles. Although i highly doubt it. She's prepping for the gianormous Eras tour right now, so i highly doubt any other styles will be seen. Although she's staying true to Midnights era, if her Grammy's dress is any indication. (Hey, isn't it cool the dress icon 👗 is the same colour as her outfit?)

4. Ignored the first few. Noticed that post-blocking, they have now reduced in number. Although i believe they can read this so egffhhjikrsssfgg... (IYKWIM ;)) n i knew you wouldn't block em. I think you're the one spawning them, aren't u? They are your mini-Satans, admit it!

[nevadas-night-time-novelist]

Updated list of headcanons about the main 4 SQ dudes

> HANK

Henry 'Hank' James Wimbleton He / Him / They / Them AMAB Heteroromantic Asexual Caucasian, 50s [Grunts age differently to humans, still considered in peak health <the Frankenstein-ing helps too>] Raised with Hunter {Skittles, older}, Heather {White, twin} and Hercules {Pink, younger} Abusive parents, physical and emotionally abusive, left with Heather when their parents kicked her out for being trans and taken in by Hunter. Clinically diagnosed as a psychopath, insomniac, autistic. They send money to Skittles to help pay for his peaceful lifestyle as a thank you for helping them as a teen. Will fight with Heather, but still loves her, very competitive since they're twins, but he's slightly stronger. Kicks Pank's ass on sight because he's an entitled princess, hostile relationship. He has a secret knack for art, and spends his down time painting animals, his trauma / memories, and horror movie icons. They also play guitar, fight with their sister, and spend time with Skittles.

>DEIMOS

Deimos Romero He / Him Transgender male, Bi Mexican+Asian american, 27 Only child Possibly ADHD (I don't know enough on ADHD to make a clear judgement) Born into the agency, adopted by Doc after his single mother died while having him, and his father was unknown. Life as a baby agent wasn't easy, but Doc managed to keep part of his brain open for free thinking so he wasn't totally brainwashed and indoctrinated. Doc helped him come to terms with being trans and helped him transition. Loves his mama even if he never met her personally, keeps her spirit alive in his own, celebrates Dia De Los Muertos and makes a nice little alter for her. Tinkers with guns and tech in his free time, as well as gaming, smoking, and going on dates with Sanford.

>SANFORD T. Sanford He / Him Cisgender, Gay African american, 32 Single mama, 5 siblings Clinically depressed The oldest of 6 kids, Fordie had a hand in helping raise his younger sibs, he puts his family before everything and everyone. Momford taught him responsibility and to be strong, she's his number 1 role model. He worked odd jobs until teaming up with a militant force, only loyal to money and nothing else, which he'd send back home to his Mom. Doc managed to come across his name a few times, and manged to tempt his favour with decent and continued payments, but over time he found himself really bonded to Deimos. He spends his free time cooking, working out, fixing up guns and working under the car, usually with Deimos. He likes to dedicate at least one day every two weeks for a date, if possible. His dog tags simply say T. Sanford, he refuses to tell almost anyone his first name, but Momford calls him Teddy, because he's big and soft like a teddy bear.

>2BDAMNED

Kyle [He doesn't use a last name to protect his identity] He / Him Cisgender, Demisexual / Sapiosexual [Attracted to intelligence above all else] Asian american, late 40s/early 50s No history known Former Nexus, met Dr. Christoff during his tenure there and became acquaintances. Left and joined the agency shortly before Phobos' death. He took a lover, Esmeralda Romero, in secret which resulted in Deimos being born. Only two people know of this fact, and one of them is dead. He doesn't have any plans to tell anyone else. Inspired to fight back against dictators, he's of the mindset that everyone is out to use you for some purpose, and you have to look out for yourself, and what few people you can trust. Ultimately he wants to protect Nevada and eventually restore it to some sense or normalcy, as impossible as a task as that seems. He raised Deimos from birth, teaching him how to take care of himself, knowing that he's a marked man, and many want him dead. He loves Deimos as his son, respects Sanford for his hard and loyal work, and trusts Hank will do as commanded.

His list of trusted people is small, and his list of friends is even smaller.

[leaveuswild]

Hello! I am Ash ( she / her, 30 ). PERSONALS AND MINORS DNI. I do not except hate to myself or fellow roleplay partners.

Welcome to Bishop Academy. This is a mutli-muse for students and professors that attend a private college called Bishop Academy that is in Edinburgh. It's set in a Dark Academia / supernatural aesthetic. . There's lots of things to find and explore here at Bishop Academy. There's secret rooms, fun activities and even a ghost or two that haunt the halls.

CARRD MEMES OPENS PINTEREST PLAYLIST

I'm happy to help set up verses for your muses to attend to school as well! I will be using icons, gif icons and gifs ( i can also go iconless too! ) I also write in beta, but I can switch to legacy if you need me to. Also please feel free to continues our asks into threads if you would like to!

I do have a number of canon characters from various books & media. While I will most likely write them in their canon universes I will have a verse for them where they fit into Bishop Academy.

MEET THE MUN

Hey there, I’m Ashlynn, please call me Ash. I’m 29 years old. I work as a CNA at a center for developmentally disable.

I love writing, it’s been something that I love to do since I was young. My muses & blogs mean so much to me as well as all of my rp partners.

I do have a discord so ask for it if you’d like it.

RULES

No God-moding (pretty much a given)

I DO NOT accept any hate towards me or my fellow rpers

I’m always open for plotting and planing out threads so just drop me an ask if you want to rp

This blog will most likely have NSFW pics, gifsets and threads. they will be tagged

if i post something that triggers you please, feel free to ask me tag

i have trouble replying to messages and what not, because I’m easily distracted. I’m not ignoring you I promise

i am multi verse & multi ship please respect that

following ; I follow who I can see myself and muses interacting with. I’m not 100 mutuals only but I can be selective with who I follow. If you follow me and then unfollow and follow again you’ll earn a soft block and if you continue to do it I will hard block. That gives me anxiety please respect my choice not to follow back thank you

i can at times be selective but it doesn’t mean i’m ignoring our threads I just write what I have the most muse for

Please note that this blog will have dark themes, such as violence and horror at times. I try to tag anything I feel is triggering. Again please feel free to ask me to tag anything you feel needs to be tagged

PROMO CREDIT

[lovepicnicparis]

Engagement Photographer in Paris: Capturing Your Love in the City of Lights

Nothing says romance quite like Paris, the city that has long captivated hearts and minds with its beauty, charm, and endless appeal. For couples who want to capture the magic of their love in an iconic setting, an engagement photographer in Paris is a must. Whether you’re strolling down cobblestone streets, sharing a kiss in front of the Eiffel Tower, or simply enjoying each other’s company by the Seine, a professional photographer helps you capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Choose an Engagement Photographer in Paris?

Capturing Timeless Memories An engagement is a milestone, and what better place to capture it than in one of the most romantic cities in the world? Paris offers a scenic, elegant backdrop that makes your engagement photos truly special. A professional photographer ensures that every photo reflects the joy, love, and anticipation you feel at this unique time in your lives.

The Dream of Paris Paris has inspired artists, poets, and lovers for centuries. The city’s allure, paired with its iconic architecture, gives your engagement photos a timeless quality that makes them even more meaningful. Imagine a photo with the Eiffel Tower rising behind you or a candid shot of the two of you sharing a laugh in a quiet Parisian garden. It’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.

Benefits of a Professional Engagement Photographer

High-Quality Photos That Last A skilled engagement photographer in Paris not only captures stunning images but also knows how to bring out the genuine emotions between you and your partner. These aren’t just photos; they’re keepsakes that you’ll treasure and share for years to come.

Local Knowledge of Iconic Spots One of the perks of hiring a local photographer is their familiarity with Parisian locations that you might not find in a guidebook. They know the secret spots with incredible views, where to go for softer, flattering light, and how to avoid the crowds.

How to Find the Best Engagement Photographer in Paris

Finding the right photographer can be daunting, but it’s worth it. Start by browsing portfolios online, and make sure to read client reviews. Look for photographers who understand your vision and have a style that matches what you’re envisioning for your engagement photos.

What to Expect During Your Paris Engagement Photoshoot

Preparing for the Big Day Typically, your Paris engagement photo session starts with a conversation with your photographer. Together, you’ll discuss location preferences, styling ideas, and any specific shots you’d like to capture. Weather can be unpredictable, so a good photographer will know how to adjust plans to make the most of the day.

Iconic Paris Locations for Engagement Photography

Eiffel Tower – The iconic symbol of Paris is a must-have in any engagement photo session.

Louvre Museum – Perfect for artsy couples, this spot offers a blend of modern and classical beauty.

Notre Dame Cathedral – This Gothic landmark adds a historical touch to your photos.

Montmartre – A neighborhood full of charm, street art, and cozy cafes.

Seine River – With its bridges and scenic pathways, the Seine is ideal for romantic shots.

How to Choose the Right Photographer for Your Style

Every photographer has their unique style. Some focus on capturing raw, candid moments, while others may have a more posed approach. Look through their portfolio to see if their style aligns with the mood you want to create.

The Importance of Engagement Photography Packages

Most photographers offer packages, and it’s important to compare what each package includes. Some may offer a set number of images, while others might provide prints, digital copies, or even an album. Choose a package that suits both your vision and budget.

Tips for a Successful Engagement Photoshoot in Paris

Dress to Complement the Scene Choosing outfits that suit the Parisian landscape can make a world of difference. Soft, neutral colors or classic attire can enhance the photos and make you stand out in the best way.

Optimal Times for the Best Light For soft, natural lighting, early mornings and late afternoons are ideal. Your photographer can recommend the best time based on your locations and the time of year.

Adding a Picnic to Your Engagement Photoshoot

Paris is known for its charming picnics, and adding one to your engagement shoot can create a unique and delightful twist. Imagine a cozy setup by the Eiffel Tower or a secluded garden, complete with a blanket, French pastries, and a bottle of wine.

Why Engagement Photoshoots Are So Popular in Paris

Social media has amplified the popularity of engagement photos, with couples wanting to capture their love in iconic places. Paris offers a backdrop that’s not only recognizable but also holds a romantic history, making it the perfect place for such moments.

Seasonal Tips for Engagement Photos in Paris

Paris is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a unique charm. In spring, blooming flowers add a fresh look to photos; in fall, the changing leaves create a warm and romantic feel. Each season brings its own character to the photos.

Conclusion

Choosing an engagement photographer in Paris is about more than just pictures—it’s about capturing the start of your journey together in one of the most romantic cities in the world. From iconic landmarks to hidden spots known only by locals, Love Picnic Paris helps you preserve these precious memories for a lifetime with a unique blend of photography and romantic picnic experiences.

[qnewsau]

Queensland's wanda dparke celebrates 30 years of drag

New Post has been published on https://qnews.com.au/queenslands-wanda-dparke-celebrates-30-years-of-drag/

Queensland's wanda dparke celebrates 30 years of drag

Queensland’s wanda dparke spoke to QNews about her journey into drag and her 30 years of performing.

A certain number of years ago in the small town of Biloela, a young star was born.

But he didn’t know it yet. 

Ross Waghorn would become one of Queensland’s premier drag stars but it was a tough beginning on his path to the stage. 

“I was the youngest of six boys, so I was labelled by my family as the soft one,” he tells me. 

Ross struggled in the conservative town to express himself freely.

“I wanted to learn to dance, and I wanted to do this and I wanted to do that, but Dad put a stop to that real quick.”

“Growing up in the country, you’re never allowed to even think about that. So I had to repress it all and that really shut me down.”

In a tale as old as time, it was a boy who took Ross away from the small town to the big city lights. 

Finding love in country Queensland was difficult at the time and had to be done in secret. 

“I met him at work event in Rockhampton and, in the country, you give someone the look,” Ross explains. 

“So I gave him the look and he gave me the look and that was it!”

His new love had to move to Brisbane for work and after spending his weekends driving to and from the city from Bioela, he made the move to the big smoke.

Big city lights

For a shy country boy, the move to Brisbane and exploring the scene was a culture shock. 

“It was a big eye-opener, but we had a ball,” he says. 

“We always had to be careful back then, because being gay was still illegal and you could get arrested at the drop of a hat.”

“But all the clubs back then were so amazing and even though we weren’t free to do what we wanted publicly, we felt so free and safe inside those venues.”

Ross would spend the 80s living with his partner and embracing the scene, however, it was a move to Sydney in the early 90s that would lead to the start of his drag career. 

Dabbling in drag

Ross, now in his late 20s, found himself working at the Taylor Square branch of the Commonwealth Bank right in the heart of Sydney’s gay scene. 

He befriended many of the queens from Oxford Street and it was only a matter of time before he had a chance to jump on stage himself. 

When two friends wanted to do a tribute to the 90s group of Wilson Phillips, they required a third performer for their show at the Albury Hotel. 

“They needed someone who was a little more chunky to play Carnie Wilson, so I was the fat one and that’s how it started,” Ross says with a chuckle. 

For Ross’s first show, he was understandably anxious.

“I was nervous and shitting myself at the time and I still get nervous before I go on stage today, 30 years later.”

After a successful first attempt, Ross continued to dabble in drag without becoming a regular performer. 

“I did a couple of Mardi Gras years just in drag out on the street. I was tragic, I looked like a train wreck but I was happily swanning around thinking my shit didn’t stink and it was amazing.”

The birth of wanda

A return to Brisbane for work was the catalyst for the creation of wanda dparke.

Ross had a chance to perform at the iconic Sportsman’s Hotel but something was missing. 

“When I did my first show in Brisbane at Sporties, I didn’t even have a name,” he explains. 

“Then a good friend of mine at the time just christened me wanda dparke and that’s the only drag name I’ve ever had.”

Despite the creation of wanda, Ross doesn’t see her as a separate character.

“I tell people that wanda and Ross are the same person but wanda gets away with more. It’s really a mask for me because I was a shy person as a young adult and a kid.”

The christening of wanda would lead to a long career in drag but that wasn’t Ross’s intention in the beginning. 

“When I started doing wanda it was more fun than anything. It was more a hobby because I still had my day job and I’ve always had a day job even up to now.” 

Despite it being fun, Ross took his craft seriously with the audience central to the growth of wanda’s popularity. 

“I was always out on the floor working the room, chatting to people and I still do that now. It’s part of what I do because I appreciate my audiences so much. And I was just lucky in that people responded at the time to what I do.”

Live singing

After lip-syncing for many years, the late 90s saw wanda begin singing live in her shows. 

“I was doing karaoke at the Sporties and then I won a couple of competitions as Ross. People said, ‘Well, why don’t you sing as wanda?’ and so I did.”

This established a point of difference for many other queens not just in Brisbane, but nationwide.  

“There’s only a couple of others in Australia that do sing as drag performers. It’s become my style and brand of cabaret drag. I was always doing camp numbers, and some numbers would be out of sync with what was popular but I’ve just been lucky it’s what audiences have enjoyed.”

Star on screen

It hasn’t just been live venues where wanda has starred, she’s also appeared on screen.

The gay-themed 2008 short feature Performance Anxiety was shot around the Sportsman Hotel and wanda scored a leading role alongside actor Luke Mitchell.  

“They approached me for the role and I loved the performing side of it,” she says. 

“I can’t really act to save myself, I’m more real. I do ad-lib really well, but I can’t do a script really well at all, I always used to go off script!”

wanda would be more ‘real’ in the film Bowled Over: A Dragumentary. 

The documentary told the story of wanda and other drag artists who helped save the North Ipswich Bowls Club with their monthly show Taboo. 

It was featured in SBS’s Untold Australia program and their Mardi Gras selections. 

“It was an amazing experience and it still has legs today even though we filmed it over six years ago.”

Despite the positive reviews and support, bigots focused on one of the boys in the film who wanted to perform in drag. 

“Us drag queens were all accused of being child abusers and paedophiles and how dare we put a 12-year-old on stage in a dress.”

“The negatives tainted the experience but also proved to us that we were doing the right thing, particularly with Logan, because his mum and dad were there from day one, supporting him, not judging him, not judging us and not trying to pigeonhole their son who wanted to be creative.”

Taking drag to the regions

One aspect of wanda’s work has been her dedication to regional events in Queensland. 

“Once I started getting older, the work started tapering off because it was becoming all about the RuPaul girls. I had to find other avenues to keep myself creative and keep myself out there as a performer.”

wanda has gone on to perform all over Queensland and News South Wales from Clubrok in Rockhampton, to Gladstone’s Rainbow Reef Festival to camel races in Boulia and Mardi Gras events in Cloncurry.

“Country people are so welcoming; they love that people want to make the effort to go there and entertain them. 

“Because I’m a country boy as well, I can relate to them and there’s no pretence. There’s no bullshit and I always tell people when I’m on stage, you can’t bullshit a country person.”

What’s next?

When I speak to Ross, it’s a few days before Brisbane Pride and wanda is due to co-host Brunswick Hotel’s Pride Day.

With a busy day of four big shows, wanda hits it out of the park and the packed crowd clearly loves her.

She plugs her regular pub trivia and works the room like she always has and is clearly in her element. 

With work coming up at Outback Mardi Gras in central Queenland’s Sapphire Gemfields,  and a cruise around Papua New Guinea as well as something big in 2025 (that she keeps teasing but can’t tell me), it’s clear wanda is still very much in demand. 

And how long does she see herself performing?

“I have the mentality of an ageing Broadway star like Angela Lansbury, who was like 5,000 years old when she stopped performing,” she says.

“Because I started late, I’m going to finish late. I’ve still got a lot that I want to do and a lot that I can do.”

You can follow WANDA DPARKE @Misswandadparke on Facebook.

Other Queensland drag stars:

How Shanny T-Bone overcame hate from within our community

Henny Spaghetti’s response to being slapped by a fan

Archie Arsenic calls for more accessible queer spaces

Get to know First Nations queen Chocolate Boxx

Spill the tea with Brisbane drag star Maxi-Bon

How AFAB drag artist Ladybird thrives despite shocking abuse

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

[theblotsays]

Marvel Comics Secret Wars #8 Cover Art Homage Screen Print by 100% Soft

In honor of the 40th anniversary of Marvel Comics’ Secret Wars maxi-series, 100% Soft has recreated one of his favorite comic book covers ever – and one of the best of all time – Secret Wars #8 as a limited edition officially licensed screen print. This is the iconic issue where Spider-Man gets his new black symbiote suit, which will eventually become the villain / anti-hero we all know and love, Venom! This cover rules and it looks especially adorable in 100% Soft’s signature kawaii emoji style. Secret Wars #8 Cover Art by 100% Soft is a 16”x24” signed and numbered Marve Comics screen print.  The Regular Edition is limited to 200 pieces and will retail for $50, while the Dayglow Variant is limited to 100 pieces and will retail for $60. Both colorways will go on sale at 10am PT on Wednesday, May 8th, at 100soft.shop. http://dlvr.it/T6bnZs