#she was suprised that they were 'actually that cute' in regards to their faces and behaviour

[gabestricks]

June Bug for pride month

[littleeyesofpallas]

it was a mistake to do the follow ups to these one batch at a time. a foolish decision.

Shocked Loly got voted down so hard, obviously she's got issues, and she's not even particularly one of my personal favorites or anything, but like clearly that's part of the appeal. Also suprised at Ginjo's performance on these, especially given that his bankai form got its own. I get not liking the mullet, that's fair, but I feel like the bankai rectifies that, not to mention the overall villain form. No Love for Love, really? Also absolutely shocked Luppi scored so low. An egregious disrespect to those hip windows. I'll admit the bangs aren't great but the cute little curls are to die for.

I just cant with people and their love of utterly featureless dead moms/wives. And i love Momo to death but she's just not a smash. girl needs therapy and like a vacation from work, but the girl does not need to be sexualized. Most of the rest of these seem pretty obvious though, both for me and the general concensus. Yeah yeah Mayuri fans are in the minority. Boo... Actually, you know what, in regards to miss Misato, the lack of respect for a modestly attractive teacher over a bunch of tragedy fodder madonna martyrs is shameful

Once again I just cannot jive with the fanbase's absolute garbo taste in wwomen with either zero personality zero autonomy. Nanao I'd have considered back during SS when she was still more of a corporate icequeen, even if the begrudging mommy/put upon secretary role would still have been a huge turn off. But the whole thing in the TYBW arc just ruins her character for me. I feel like I've complained about Nel enough on this blog that I don't need to go over this again: I would unironically rank screeching baby Nel over Neliel, even if they're still both a pass. Nemu I feel bad about, I don't dislike her general character, but again zero autonomy is not a turn on: Hard Pass. Ya'll are cowards not fucking with The Wind. I like his perma bed-head and his two tongues, and yeah even his goofy ass casual ahegao. I want to pull him by the hair. We all knew how the Nnoitra thing was gonna go; obviously not a popular pick but the girlies who got it bad got it bad bad. Nobutsuna is some kinda Thief and the Cobbler/Jafar Aladin/Rurouni Kenshin Udo Jinne ass ting going on and I'm not gonig to lie, I'm into it. The man looks like a whithered corpse but in a good way(?) It's not a super committed smash, but it's there. Honestly, Numb Chandellier I had to think about a little, but she's just the wrong kind of tentacle and the wrong kind of mind control. The heart eyes are cute tho (Category N also marks the first time I've managed a 0% Smash Approval Rating comparing my picks against the general consensus.)

This was a nice short batch with a pretty big split on almost every one. I'll admit, I had to stop and think about Nimaiya a little. When he ties his hair up in a samurai topknot and gets serious about blacksmithing I almost would, but his loud goofball pervert shtick is just not for me. Given the spit I think these are all safely decided, even though the last ones have a few days left. Nimaiya could still flip on me in the next like 24 hours tho...

looks like the R polls are prettymuch wrapped. I feel like i'd get flak for it but look, Unohana's cool and all but not like sexualized cool. And I'm just not into the fetishized servile and demure matronly thing. I feel bad Riku scored so low, he doesn't particularly feel like he deserves it, just not my type. Boy the bleach fans really hate the moustache huh? like it's not an overly enthusstic smash but I wouldn't not. Shocked at the cowards not wanting to fuck Rudbornn; he's a cool guy who you don't have to look at his face, what more do you want? All the benefits of just putting a brown paper bag on their head but what if the bag looked cool. The rest of these were just obvious picks

I'm cutting the Ss in half just because it's a lot. These seemed like pretty clear cut picks all around. Shukuro Tsukishima was a tough decisions because he's basically just me without my glasses and a different location for the forehead scar, and I just don't love myself enough to think of him as hot. But he does have his weird moment toward the end where he has a little too much fun messing with people's memories and I'm about that energy. Shawlong is verymuch contingent on his cool monster scissorhands form.

Been meaning to go back and take stock of my "score" on the ongoing @bleach-smashorpass, I've grayed out anything where my personal pick didn't match the popular outcome, and left the ones where I fall into the majority vote in color.

Look, I'll be real, I'm not above monsterfuckery, even if I don't consider it ""my thing"" but I'd have voted smash on Ayon if he didn't have his weird secret muppet face. Also Aaroniero was an extremely light smash, i really had to flip flop on that one a few times before making a choice. I'll be honest, I liked original Chapter25 epilogue Aisslinger way more than what we got in the Arrancar Arc, and if I could split the vote I'd smash original and pass on final design for him.

Bambi is just such a boring design, and honestly Batsuunsai isn't much better, but the glasses are cute. She was really close to being a pass.

I was actually surprised that I had to stop and think about Choe but his giant chin and tiny bowl cut were not doing him any favors. Also as much as I like Cyan as a character, there is just something about hime cuts that are an automatic off switch for me. the rest of these felt fairly obvious.

not gonna lie, little hurt by the lack of D-Roy and Dordonii love

Confused that people were so lukewarm on Findor, although it was a close split. Also oddly I could have sworn I passed on Furofushi... I'm not really a fan of pigtails, with very few exceptions, but when I went to check the poll results it said I voted smash. Maybe I was thinking she was feeling Hiyori adjacent enough to count it at the time? I.... I don't remember voting smash on Entetsu...

i feel very scandalized by having voted unpopularly on all these old men... I'll be honest, Gremmy is a very lukewarm smash, and the potential of the Visionary power as a sex thing was very much the deciding factor.

boy bleach fans really don't like moustaches, huh? So funny enough it wasn't until the anime that I realized Hidetomo has his multiple earrings and somehow that changed his whole vibe for me, but prior to that it would have been an easy pass. I absolutely cannot abide characters whose whole thing is being someones dead wife/girlfriend, even if she otherwise looks exactly like Rukia, who'll be a smash for sure once we get to the Rs.

i figured i'd be on the wrong side of the fence with the kurosaki men but it's a real hard no on all the above. I'll be real, I'm kinda surprised Ikkaku was so popular. The rest of these felt obvious. Oh wait no there was like no love for Izumi Ishida. Boo to that.

okay so hear me out... Jugram is too blond. I know that sounds like nonsense, but like, he's too fundementally blond. Like most of Bleach's blond characters could have other generally light hair colors, and it wouldn't super change their image or aesthetic, but Jugram has to be blonde because the alternatives don'teel the same, and that's too much blond for me.

i know i voted pass on ichigo, which might make smash on kaien seem weird, but it's between the personality difference and the eyelashes. People not smashing on Kiyone is a catastrophe

and with that i'm all caught up with the letters where all the polls that have already closed. i'll be back to update these as the rest keep rolling along. I dunno why I really did this apart from the compulsion

[dellaliz19]

Black Panther movie review: spoilers!

So, I just went and saw Black Panther and yes, it deserves all the praise it’s getting. So, you know the drill, pros and (few) cons, here we go!

Pros:

1) The general look of Wakanda is stunning. It’s a perfect blend of “city of the future meets African heritage” and it’s just amazing to see it brought to life. The technology is visually so engaging, and it’s great that so much of the sets are really utilized. The fight in the mine with the train, for example is a really efficient way to not just have a fight in an empty field (or airport 😐) but to actually make use of the premise you’ve set up.

2) Shuri is perfect and that is final. But seriously, Shuri is such a great character. Her relationship with T’Challa feels so real. The scene with her remote driving the car while T’Challa is on top of it is some of the most amazing and imaginative team work I’ve ever seen on film, and it was great. And it’s fantastic that her intellect and technical skill are so celebrated, and that no one ever looks down on her for it. As a woman myself in a STEM field, I’m all for celebrating smart, capable women of science and Shuri is a great role model for little girls. Also, she’s the Queen of Memes, and I love her.

3) The Dora Miljae. The powerful women don’t stop with Shuri: the Dora Miljae are finally on full display, and I’m so on board with it! I love that the King’s personal guard are these strong, capable women, who kick some serious freaking ass. Point these ladies in the direction of Thanos and then just give everyone else the day off, they’ve got it handled.

4) Andy Serkis is clearly having the time of his life. His Ulysses Klaue is the fun, devil may care kind of villain the MCU could use some more of. He’s irreverent, in it for the money and just loving every second of being a bad guy. Thematically, I understand why he had to die, but damn, he was just so much fun to watch. I know Serkis is the undisputed motion capture king, but can we please let him act more with his real face?!

5) Speaking of villains the MCU could use more like, Eric Killmonger is the perfect villain for this story. His arc was personal and related to T’Challa: he was the dark mirror image of who T’Challa could be, and Michael B Jordan hit it out of the park. I can’t say I ever rooted for him, but I definitely identified with his belief that the powerful have a responsibility to protect the marginalized. I think it’s important that the movie made it clear that it wasn’t so much his ideology that was wrong, but his methods, and that that hatred had warped his ideals somewhat: that he had killed his own people and that he wanted to punish the world. And it was important to that it was clear that his beliefs impacted and helped change and shape T’Challa’s own actions. Killmonger was the “we make our own demons” villain finally done right, and his last line was so powerful and so in character.

6) Martin Freeman’s Everett Ross finally found his rhythm. He’s clearly the story’s comedic “straight man” but he was really well integrated into the narrative, and he never feels out of place or takes up too much screen time. His hero moment in the flight drone thing was a really fitting culmination to his character developed in this movie, and I’d enjoy seeing him in more MCU movies.

7) Danai Gurira’s Okoye is a definite stand out character. She gets great fight scenes, is compelling and wise and she’s a fabulously funny character as well. I would let her kick my ass any freaking day of the week.

8) Suprise Sterling K. Brown is always a treat. I loved his scenes in the spirit world with his son, and his flashbacks in the apartment were really powerful. In very short order we’re made to feel his entire arc, and how his living amongst oppressed people of his own race affected his ideology and his struggle to reconcile that with his loyalty to his country and his brother and that’s very much due to the strength of Brown’s performance.

8) Winston Duke’s M’Baku is definitely the other stand out character. He’s introduced in this very brutal, no nonsense way, and somehow he ends up being the funniest character by the end? His “I’m just kidding we’re vegetarians” line got an honestly to gosh snort out of me, and he was a great story beat in showing the traditional side of Wakanada vs the technological side, and how T’Challa will be a different king than his father.

9) It was nice to see Bucky, but to only have him be the post credits stinger. It’s clearly establishing why he’s awake and around for Infinity War, but I’m glad he wasn’t in the whole movie. Black Panther really let T’Challa and it’s characters be the star, and including Ross was a good way to tie it into the MCU without taking that focus away from where it needed to be.

10) Honestly, the whole cast does great work with their characters. Chadwick Boseman has really made T’Challa his own, and he’s a great character. Angela Basset is always good, and Lupita Nyong’o is also fantastic. I especially like that, for a Marvel romance, she and T’Challa don’t waste time on the will they/won’t they. They find a common goal, and then they’re united. I like it. Another.

Cons (these are pretty minor!)

1) Vibranium is starting to feel like “fairy dust.” Have a problem? Vibrainium will fix it. Shot in the spine? Stick a ball of that in there! (also, like T’Challa couldn’t take two seconds to throw a little of that Rhodey’s way?) Want to make super holograms? Use some of that. And so on. This one isn’t a massive point to me: clearly the in universe explaination is that the secret government white guys in the 40’s only had imaginations large enough to make a frisbee out of it, but it does almost reach the point of feeling like a writing crutch. Vibrainium does everything, so sure, it can do that thing! Again, not major for me, because the world Wakanda paints is so cool, but it did kind of bug me.

2) Forrest Whitaker’s wise man mentor Zuri is fine, but he’s probably the character most unchanged from his general stereotype. He’s a shaman, he’s wise, he dies. His character history is good though and very thematically relevant, and Whitaker does a good job with what he’s given.

3) Daniel Kaluuya’s W’Kabi could have used a little bit more background, especially in regards to his relationship with Okoye. He’s basically only given the motivation of wanting Klaue dead, and when Killmonger delivers him that he’s just suddenly on board with all this world conquering and murder in a way that seems out of proportion for the character we’ve seen. And he and Okoye really needed more introduction to their relationship, given that their falling on either sides of this civil war is a significant plot point. All we get is her calling him “my love” and he returning it: that meeting on the battlefield would have been a lot more powerful if we’d been able to see them be domestic and interact.

4) The bloodlessness. This isn’t the director or the movie’s fault really, it’s the MPAA but the fact that PG-13 movies can’t have too much blood is...kind of noticeable here. I think it might be because the Dora Miljae all use penatrative weapons and many other characters do as well, but if you have a giant fight with spears and no one is bleeding then it feels a little bit...empty. Like, Killmonger slits the throat of one of the Dora in front of Okoye there’s no blood. Again, I get why it’s happening, and I’m not blaming the movie, but it’s something that I definitely noticed, and although I’m not asking for gore I felt the total lack of blood detracted a little of the realness from the fights.

Obviously, Black Panther is a movie that has a very deliberate point to make about race. And, I say this as a white woman: I’m so glad it does. As a woman, watching Wonder Woman was an incredibly empowering and momentous thing for me. To be able to see a story about a strong, powerful good woman on screen - someone I could identify with, and picture myself as - made me feel like I could do anything, and I think everyone, no matter your race, colour, creed, gender, sexual orientation, should get to have that moment. And so no, Black Panther wasn’t going to be a movie that gave me that moment, but I’m so, so glad it’s clearly doing so for so many people. Black Panther is a movie that celebrates black excellence and also tells an engaging and powerful story, and I’m happy to be able to enjoy and celebrate that with everyone.

So, final verdict: 9/10 for me. In a universe that is getting increasingly crowded and teetering on the edge of fatigued, Black Panther is something new and different and wonderful that everyone can enjoy.

Bonus: best lines.

“WHAT ARE THOSE?!?”

“Are we in Wakanda?” “No, we’re in Kansas.”

“Don’t freeze.” “I never freeze.” Lands. Freezes. “Ngh...hi.”

“Bury me in the ocean with all my ancestors who jumped from the ships because they knew drowning was better than living in bondage.”

“No tears for me?” “Nah, everybody dies. That’s just how life is around here.”

“Are you recording this?” “For science.” T’Challa flies across the room. “Delete that clip!”

“What, do you have a mixtape coming out?” “I can send you a SoundCloud link if you want?” “Please don’t make me listen to your music.”

“Oh good, another broken white boy for us to fix!”

“If he touches you again, I am going to impale him to that desk.”

Also if Infinity War doesn’t include a scene where Tony Stark ends up in Shuri’s lab and she’s like, “aw, that’s so cute, your hologram reminds me of the stuff I was making when I was 5,” while Tony loudly just loses his geek mind, then what even is the point of it all?

[darkspellmaster]

Do you think Shiro x Romelle is gonna be a thing? How do you see it playing out in VLD?

Honestly I hope it is a thing. I’ll be blunt, I’m a huge fan of that Ship as a whole, but I’m trying to be as open about the idea of Keith and Romelle as implications seem that Keith met her first so…there is that. But if I had to say anything about Shiro x Romelle (Shiromelle? Shirelle? Romehiro?) I would say it would play out in a very interesting way. 

We know that Shiro is missing his arm and will probably get it back by the end of the season or the middle of the season, as Hunk and Pidge and Matt will probably build one for him with Coran while they are working on the castle. During this time you’re going to see Keith working with Allura and Lance to figure out what to do about the Galra, which means that Shiro is going to be on his own for a while. I’m pretty sure Krolia is going to be with Keith, and since Romelle doesn’t have the skills the others have, probably limited magic as well, she’d find a kindred spirit in Shiro. 

Knowing Shiro the two would probably talk alot about her family, and he’d want to know about the Alteans and what their lives were like before Lotor’s plans. I can see the two probably bonding over the lions and Shiro talking to her about his fears and worries for the team. Knowing him, while he wouldn’t outright say to the others he feels useless, he’d probably confide in Romelle that he doesn’t think they need him anymore, and she’d sympathize as an older sister, and seeing how Bandor grew up before her own eyes. He’d understand how she felt about losing someone close to her, as he felt that when he thought he’d lost the Professor and Matt. Not to mention that he’d probably be willing to understand her fears about the Galra and Lotor more seeing as what Haggar did to him. 

Romelle would help Shiro find a part of himself that he hasn’t seen in a while, and mention that she wants to go back and help her people but not being able to fly nor fight, nor maybe understanding Altean tech, would be a problem for her. On the opposite end, Shiro may, given the white hair and all, be gifted with Altean magic, so maybe Romelle could help him get a better grasp on that. She’d have him learn smaller things than Allura would, as Allura would be more focused on the bigger picture, and Coran, bless his heart, probably would confuse Shiro as to what to do. Eventually the two would have a moment where they hug when Shiro manages to do some form of Altean magic and it would be an awkward, cute thing. 

In the mean time Shiro would be showing Romelle how to fly the ship, using probably some sort of small plane that they have there, or a test simulator. Also how to actually throw a punch or maybe use Allura’s old staff that she had before. As such the two would learn each others weaknesses and talk a lot about what their desires were regarding Romelle’s return. When she finally found a way to fly the plane, Shiro would be thrilled and seeing her look happy and sure of herself he’d become more and more smitten with her. 

Eventually Shiro would tell Romelle to talk to Allura about going after the Colony and Allura would agree. The team would head out, with a plan, and Shiro and Romelle would take the lead on this as she is the one that knows where they need to go, with Keith. I see Shiro working hard with her to figure out a plan to free the Alteans that were captured in the testing area, and then those on the Colony. While the people are shocked to see Allura and finally believe Romelle, whom Shiro would back about the issues earlier, the two would allow Allura space to meet her people and Shiro would tell her how nice the place was, but also understand why she felt so trapped. 

Romelle would agree that she wants to see more of space and the two would hold hands at this point causing both to blush and be unsure of themselves. After the Colony is freed, and while they’re dealing with probably Lotor and the other alteans, we may learn more about Romelle’s and Lotor’s connection (because again I have a feeling there’s more there than just Bandor’s death going on with them) and the two, Shiro and Romelle, would have to face the consequences of whatever comes from that situation. I can see at one point, Romelle and Allura switching places to protect Allura and when Shiro finds out he flips, because by this point he’s fallen for her and wants to help and protect her. The group manage, eventually to free her, and probably deal with Lotor in some way (either forcing him and Merla to become allies due to Haggar or defeating them) and now have to face Haggar and whatever monster is coming from the stuff she was studying.

Before that battle though, Romelle talks with Shiro and he tells her he was worried about her and scared and pretty much blurts out that he loves her, surprising her and even himself. Then he thinks about it for a moment and says that yeah he’s in love with her, and wants to stay with her, wherever she ends up. Weather that’s helping Allura restart Altea (or Pollux) or back on earth, he’ll go with her. Romelle says she loves him too, and tells him when they get out of this she wants to see the galaxy with him. Of course they kiss, and get caught by probably the others, with Hunk and Coran and Pidge teasing the hell out of them for it. While Allura, Keith, Lance and Krolia all congradult them in their own way. I’m pretty sure by the time the epiloge of the series comes we see the two working together on new Altea, or earth, and possibly wedding bands on their fingers signifiying that they’re married at this point. Shiro may or may not have an arm, but he’s helping Romelle look at something, possibly weird food, and trying to figure out with her what it is, only to be suprised to find it being some sort of cute animal and him jumping back and her giggling. That’s at least how I see it playing out. I don’t know if it will happen or not. But I kind of hope it does. Yeah that would be my OTP in this series and I’m a hard core shipper of it. It’s one of the reasons why I have a hard time seeing Shiro with Allura or anyone because these two are so cute when you really think about it. 

[servabrs]

BTS reaction to a younger western artist crushing on them

A/N: Can you please write an bts reaction to getting the news that a western younger artist has a crush on them? Thank youuuu💗💗

Jin / Kim Seokjin

Being a guest at variety shows quite often, Jin can enjoy talking freely, knowing how to handle the situation without the other members around. Especially since they are always a great opportunity for him to show off his newest dad jokes. Currently being at a show that got popular very lately, Jin gives his best to show all his good qualities and ends up being questioned by the MC, who tries to compliment Jin on his good looks, “Jin is very handsome, right? Did you know there’s a western artist who has a crush on you?”. As he hears that Jin raises his brows as he looks over to the MC. “What, really? Who is it?” he curiously asks. The MC chuckles, taking a look on his card “In a recent interview Y/N was asked what singer she’d like to have a date with. And apparently she answered with your name!”. As your name is mentioned Jin starts grinning while saying “Woah, I’m really worldwide handsome, aren’t I?” while sending his typical flying kiss to the camera with a wink.

Suga / Min Yoongi

Sitting at the rounded desk in the the recording room of the radio show, Yoongi feels very comfortable. Since they’ve been there before quite often they all know the MC’s and can talk very casually about their comeback, the latest gossip and some personal stuff. “Your comeback with the new album was a huge success! A lot of western artists also congratulated you on your album and that they personally really like it.” one of the MC states and all of the members mumble something in agreement. They read out some fanquestions regarding the topic of western artists and what they think about collaborationg and growing friendships. Following the questions shown on the screen infront of him, Yoongis mind trails off. “Y/N just recently revealed that she has a crush on Suga during an Interview, and would love to collab on the next Cypher with you guys.” the MC suddenly states and Yoongi looks up rather surpised. Namjoon and Jimin start to whistle while Yoongi is not sure what to say, startled by the idea of you rapping with him. “Yah, Suga! I’ve never seen you this quiet before, cat got your tounge?” the MC teases as everyone starts to laugh. Still uncertain Yoongi clears his throat acting confident “What are you talking about. I just had an idea for the beat we would rap to.”.

J Hope / Jung Hoseok

“Hoseok look at this!” Jimin runs towards him, giggling excited with a tablet in his hand. He was just casually relaxing in their shared room dozing off, thoughts wandering around nothing certain as Jimin bursted in. With a beaming smile he drops next to Hoseok onto the bed “You always watch reaction videos to our MV’s right? I swear to god, you will love this one!” Jimin nearly screams in excitement. Suspicious about Jimins words, Hoseok leans closer to him to have a better look at the screen of the tablet. With nothing more to say Jimin taps on the screen starting the YouTube video and Hoseok crooks a brow as he catches a glimpse of the title ‘Western Artists Reacting to BTS’ MV’. A lot of different artists are shown reacting during the MV but during the transition scene to Hoseok your face is shown. You jump up in excitement as you see Hoseok dancing and rapping “Oh my god, this shot is so beautiful. Look at J Hope! He is so beautiful, how can you not crush on him?” you blurt out, unaware of how red your face gets. Right after that Jimin stops the video and looks at Hoseok with anticipation “Y/N has a crush on you hyung! Look at you, you’re beaming like the sun!”. Laughing at Hoseoks precious smile he rolls up on the bed and “Yah, Jimin! Shut up!” is all he can say before having to grin again, not able to hold back.

Rap Monster / Kim Namjoon

Since BTS is having a new Interview with Billboard, Namjoon is taking the lead with answering the questions and translating for the others. They mostly understand the interviewer but Namjoon translates it nevertheless, used to being the one to overcome the language barrier. “Since you collabed on a song with the chainsmokers, what are other artists you would like to work with? It’s been quite some time, since I asked you that, so maybe there are some new artist you’re interested in?” the interviewer asks with an eager smile on her face. And just as everyone expected Namjoon to turn around and repeat the question in korean he blurts out “Y/N! She gained a lot of popularity during the past months, and her style of producing music is really unique. I would love to collab with her one time.”. After noticing what he just did he laughs shyly, not turning to see the faces of the members, knowing well all of them are just smirking at him. The interviewer chuckles at his cute outburst “I actually interviewed her just a couple of days ago, and she said exactly the same about you guys. She also revealed that she has a little crush on you, Rap Monster.” she says and winks at him. Shocked from the news he embarrassingly smiles, showing off his dimples and lowers his fast reddening head. All the other members start laughing at him, hitting him on the arm as he hides his face behind his hands, too shy to handle the situation.

Jimin / Park Jimin

Scrolling through his phone while laying on the couch in the living room, Jimin ended up on Twitter reading comments. Chuckling at the memes and fan edits under every post, he shows the funniest ones to Jungkook who sits next to him. “Have you seen the Tweet literally everone tagged us in?” Jungkook asks while laughing at one of the comments. “Huh, no. What Tweet do you mean?” Jimin asks giving Jungkook a confused look. “You just have to look at the comments of your selfies. You will find it in an instant.” he replies grinning at his hyung. Getting curious, Jimin scrolls through the shared Twitter account to his latest posted selfie and opens up the comment box. To his suprise it was full with the same link, all redirecting to the same Tweet, added with heart emojis and hashtags that look like a weird name. Jungkook next to him scoots closer, eager to see his reaction as Jimin clicks on the link, showing him the Tweet everyone talks about. With a huge suprise he notices that the Tweet is from you, who he met at the last Billboard Music Awards, since you were both nominated for the same category. He starts reading it out loud “I just watched the new MV from Jimins solo song and I have to say, my crush is real. Watch it, it’s beyond heavenly!”. Turning red he locks the screen of his phone and throws it in the corner of the sofa. “Aaaw, hyung! You’re blushing, you can’t deny how happy that makes you. Everyone saw you staring at her on stage!” Jungkook teasingly says as Jimin tries to escape the situation.

V / Kim Taehyung

During the comeback promotion they have a lot of shows with a little talk section in between the dance performances and prepared videos. So after they performed the choreography to their latest title track the staff brought some chairs up the stage and everyone takes a seat. As they talk about the choreography Hoseok takes the lead of explaining “Gladly a lot of people seem to like the choreohraphy so far.” as the crowd cheers in agreement. And Jimin takes the opportunity to tease his best friend “I saw a lot of social media posts saying it’s great. Females seem to really like Taehyung’s part though!”. Taehyung tries to playfully hit Jimin, but he quickly runs away smiling at his success to fluster Taehyung. “I’ve been reading that too!” Jungkook joins in “Y/N even posted on her personal social media, how much she likes you!”. As everyone starts to grin, the crowd screams as Taehyung gives up on trying to hit Jimin but Jungkook instead. “Yah, what are saying? Stop it!” Taehyung says, not sure how to talk himself out of this. “Show us the dance move again!” Jimin teasingly adds, wiggling his eyebrows in anticipation. Embarassed, Taehyung can’t hold back showing off his boxy smile, as he lowers his gaze and shyly shakes his head.

Jungkook / Jeon Jungkook

After an exciting concert overseas Jungkook feels way too energized to sleep yet, so he logs in to V LIVE and starts a live stream in his hotel room, laying on the bed. “Hello everyone. I just came back from the concert. Did you miss me?” just as usual he starts off with fan service, killing some time as A.R.M.Y’s join watching in the speed of light. “I’m not tired yet, so I thought I’d take some questions. Yes, I’m going to eat soon, don’t worry.” he says, directly answering the first one. As he watches the questions, answering one by one, he soon notices many comments about one particular western artist. “I heard rumors about Y/N having a crush on you.” one fan wrote. Trying to ignore it he scrolls past that comment, but ends up finding more. “Lately Y/N often talks about you on her social network. People think you’re dating lol” another comment says. Not being able to avoid the topic Jungkook starts to blush and cover his smiling mouth with one hand “What are you saying… Please ask me something instead”. Fans calm down until a question related to the western singer pops up: What do you think about Y/N? Jungkook hesitantly answers “I really like her music. I bet Y/N is a nice person. Not saying we’re dating tho.” while trying not to blush again.

[rkkangjoon]

//mock interview nov’17 eval  |  skj solo

He sat face to face to the mentor who told him to pretend that they didn’t know each other. Task was to reply to the questions, trying to be as concrete as possible without damaging his own image. Kang Joon had no idea how to remain himself without saying things he might not mean. Sounded hard. The other male began rustling with his stack of papers before lifting his voice, as if he was a reporter to get to know about him.

Please introduce yourself before we are starting with the questions.

Kang Joon lifted himself up from his seat and bowed, smiling brightly. “Hello, I am Royal’s White Lotus Seo Kang Joon. Pleased to meet you.”

Q1.“Your real name isn’t Seo Kang Joon, it is Lee Seunghwan instead. So what’s the reason behind your stage name Seo Kang Joon?”

He hummed, most people didn’t even knew Seo Kang Joon wasn’t his real name. He often introduced himself as Lee Seunghwan but rather liked it to be called Kang Joon. Most people called him Kang Joon anyways, there were just few like his grandmother or his cousin or his ex who called him by his birthname. “Well, there is a sunbaenim who is called Lee Seunghwan…. I felt like I couldn’t dare to become an idol while holding into this name without the pressure to surpass him. At the same time I was afraid to dirty his good name if I were to fail. That’s the only reason. I am not ungrateful towards my late parents, and I will never forget the name they gave me. ”

Q2. “Please name 3 things that describe you the best.”

He leaned back, before replying. “Spectrum, cheesy & cheeky.” The male’s lips formed into a wide grin. “I may look innocent, but there is much more to learn about me, so I guess spectrum is a good word to choose. There are a variety of sides to learn about me. I am a hopeless romantic and sometimes even I found myself pretty cheesy.” The mere grin turned into laughter. “And people often tell me I’m bold because I tend to do things differently from what you would expect.”

Q3. "What do you think about Royal Survival? Who is your favorite and why?"

This was one of the questions he had expected, since the show was drawing Royal Ent. into the focus of citizens right now. The male straigthened his limbs and his back, a hand tabbing on the table between the two of them. "Well, actually there are quite a few people I am cheering on. But if you ask me to choose one favorite it would be definitely be Elly. She is one of my closest friends, so I know about her skills and talents. I think people should just focus her because of that, nothing else.”

Q4. " How was it for you to co-host the Survival show? Is hosting one of the things you want to do as idol?

Nodding in agreement, Kang Joon replied: "I was pretty nervous but at the end of the day I was glad I received the chance to host the show. The Royal show represents our female trainees, so Baekhyun and me could remind Korea about Royal's male trainees as well. It was a good experience and a great opportunity! I would definitely host again, if I received another chance. But acting and modeling are something I want to do as Idol as well." He was thankful for the chance, and he needed to make sure to thank Jisub sunbaenim later.

Q5. “If you have to choose: Who is the most handsome and who the most beautiful among Royal trainees?”

Seemed like a question to provoke him, he thought. “How do you choose the fairest flower in a Royal Garden?” He returned the question with a cheeky smile. “I think our visual line is pretty strong among other companies, and I actually don’t think there is someone who is better looking than the other. But if you want me to choose, I think Baekhyun is easy on the eyes... When I was next to him on stage, I couldn’t take my eyes of his side profile. He has cheekbones one could be envious of... and still has this pure charm that pulls one closer to him and his adorable smile.” Kang Joon nodded. On the other hand he was facing a dilemma, when he was about to choose a pretty female. If he were to follow his guts he would have definitely called out for Rose, but there was no way he could actually do that considering the two of them could easily get under fire again. And choosing Dahye he also had somewhat of a special bond to, and whose beauty he personally adored almost as much as his exgirlfriend’s, would possibly cause a stir as well. Either way, it was troubling for him and the choosen female. “And for the females... I vote for Elly once again!” He shortly said, it was obvious the two of them were close friends, so there was no way one could misunderstand their relationship. “Her mature looks make her stand out, it’s something one has to be born with.”

Q6. “Talking of Baekhyun... During your participation at the MGAs there was a scandal regarding same sex love. Please tell us your thoughts on controversial topics such as homosexuality.”

The question stabbed him right into the chest, as he knew how Korea was a very traditional nation and this kind of topic was a bit of a taboo. Maybe it would be better to stay low, swallowing down his opinion. But that would mean to deny his true self, even though Kang Joon wanted to show the world who he really was. “I’m not against it. I rather support it. And I hope there will be a day, when South Korea can support and accept same sex love as well.” He was bisexual after all, so how could he ever hate on those who loved the same gender? He himself had experienced it before.  “I don’t believe anyone has the right to intervene the love of two humans. Whoever you love, it’s still love.”

Q7. “Does that mean you would date a man?”

He blinked, perplexed after hearing the mentor’s question. He couldn’t really believe what he just heard, the other man was much more pushy than he expected him to be. “Life is busy enough, even without dating.” Kang Joon replied, mistrustful gazing at the other’s eyes. The male wouldn’t give him a chance to be alarmed about Kang Joon’s relationship status, unlike at the beginning of his trainingship. He had learned from his mistakes. “And please refrain from sounding disgusted by that thought, it’s nothing bad.” A dangerous glint flickered in his amber coloured eyes.

Q8. “Fine... Then please tell me what kind of concept do you hope to debut with?”

Brushing through his light brown hair, he averted his amber coloured gaze for a short moment in order to collect his words. Kang Joon wouldn’t show his anger about the rudeness from the older man. This wasn’t the time. “It would be awesome to debut in a co-ed group, if you ask me.” He laughed a fake smile. He had no idea what he was actually talking about since he had never really thought about a group concept before. “Having to balance between female and male aspects we wouldn’t do too strong or too cute concepts I believe… I rather feel like we could pursue a deeper concept, which tells stories to the listeners instead of only capturing them with alluring looks or ear-catching melodies.” Kang Joon was suprised about himself for sounding self-confident and prepared, but he supposed his improvising skills weren’t as bad as he thought.

Q9. “And if you could choose trainees from all companies, who would you want to create a co-ed group with?”

“Oh that’s a easy question. I would love to be with my friends because I know we could enjoy ourselves while having the strongest teamwork. They are like my family, so I believe we would be the coolest gang out there!” Excited he blurred out, without trying to make him sound calmer and more elaborate. “KT has Aron and Gary, those would be my male buddies. Aron could be the talented allround pretty boy, while Gary would be the calm big brother with mad dog rapping skills. And if Elly wouldn’t win the Survival show, even though I am most certain she will, she would be the strong and cool female counterpart to him, independent and in charge of the sexy charm. Since there are three males we would need two more girls and there won’t be better choices than Sphere’s Minhee and Nova’s Wendy. The two of them have bubbly personalities, as Minhee is super attentive and caring and Wendy is gentle and kind and sweet to everyone. Also their charming harmony would serve the vocal parts of our group well. And I for my part would be the dumb visual who could take care of acting and variety.” His eyes glinted in excitement, when he imagined things. The mentor blinked before nodding in agreement. “Oh! And other choices for a group would be Rose, Dahye, Soohyun, Jihyun and Yooa… wait…” The male cover his eyes with one hand, while cackling. “This isn’t a co-ed group anymore… I suppose I could try be part of a girlgroup as well.” He joked which made the mentor laughing out as well before telling Kang Joon to move on to the next question.

Q10. “What kind of advice would you give new trainees coming in to your company?”

The male scratched his chin, before looking right into his mentors eyes again. “They should think about a flower name beforehand.” Kang Joon laughed about his own answer, as he remembered how he had struggled to find a good flower name for quite some time. “And please enjoy the stay here.”

[bdo-melesrp-olive]

A Tour of Calpheon

Deoku stepped outside of the inn the day following his meeting with Olivette, taking in the warmth of the sunlight as he's set to go out and about to tour the city.  He stretched a bit and smiles at the thought of the beautiful elf he met the day before; hopefully showing up to guide him to the more notable places. This would also give him a chance to walk off his earlier breakfast and get in some slight exercise; minor compared to his actual training. Reaching into his pocket he took out one of his small mint leaves placing it his mouth. Deoku then stepped out onto the busy road in front of the Inn, beginning in walk in the now familiar area.  The man decided to first make his way over to the bridge, stopping and leaning against its guard wall and watching the river beneath carrying rafts and boats along its flowing waters.

Kenai joined him, arms up behind his head, stretching as he gave a leisurely yawn, "Man... this place is something. There's so much to see and it feels like there isn't enough time in the day to see it all." he mused, a hand running back through his muddy river colored hair, bright eyes alert and roaming the surroundings absently. He paused to pass Deoku a sidelong glance, his arms still raised with his fingers interwoven behind his head, a casual stance as any. 

"So... you seem like something good happened yesterday. Care to share?" he inquired, ever curious.

"Yeah, this place is definitely something.  And much bigger than a lot of the other places we've adventured to. I could see why so many come here to start up their businesses.", he replied to Kenai as he watched a boat dock down below, pausing for a moment at the next question. 

"Geez, who said anything good happened yesterday?", he teased Kenai. "Well... I mean I did meet a beautiful green haired elf named, Olivette.  Kind and timid little woman she was...", he trailed off in the thought of Olive.

A smirk tugged at the corner of Kenai's lips, her hazel blue gaze squinting suspiciously, "It was obvious, Deo- you were acting like you were on cloud nine or something. You wouldn't stop grinning all day!" He chuckled, throwing a gaze skyward, 

"So you met someone, huh? Lucky. Hmm... Olivette.... that's a different kind of name. Makes me hungry." he quipped jokingly, arms at last coming to rest at his sides. "Any plans to see her again?" He turned to regard his mentor, a thick brow quirked quizzically.

"That obvious, huh?" Deo chuckled as he looked over to Kenai. "She was a lot different than most elves that I've met. I could only think of one other that's even close to as kind as her.", Deo's eyes wandered the scenery. 

"I'd love to meet her again...I did ask her out...somewhat...today actually.  Now if she'll show up is a completely different question!  She ran like the wind after our first encounter.", he mused to his young companion; giving his head a bit of a scratch at the thought.

Kenai couldn't help a snicker, "Well, you're not as smooth as you like to think you are." he mused cheekily. "You probably came on too strong and scared her away." He chuckled and gave Deoku a light, good-natured nudge in his shoulder. 

"She sounds interesting though. Wouldn't mind meeting her. But Elves tend to be a bit narrow-minded. Not to say this one is, but it's sorta a general rule with most." He raised a hand so that he could itch at the side of his nose with a forefinger, a small silver hoop pierced there. 

"But who knows!"

Deoku laughed a bit, "Wow! Talk about cruel!  I don't think I'm smooth...I just know what I like and go for it.", he sighed a moment. 

"She had the softest skin...", snapping himself out of the last train of thought he continued." I think her outlook is a bit different.  She mentioned being raised among humans and not really getting along too well with elves because of her differences...  I didn't want to pry though it seemed to be a really touchy subject for her." 

Deo paused for a moment in thought,"Now had I pressed on that I could totally see her running and never looking back.  I feel like she just ran away because she's shy.  The look in her eyes before she fled kind of said it all."

Whilst Deoku spoke, Kenai couldn't him his knowing grin as he observed his friend and the way he spoke of the mystery woman, the way his eyes sort of lost focus and his expression seemed so utterly smitten. He bit his lower lip to hide the playfully smug grin he had, "Yeah? Well, don't let me keep you, Deo. Sounds like you got plans to find yourself a she-elf today." 

He tossed his older companion a wink before trudging off aimlessly, tossing a wave back over his shoulder at Deoku as he went, "Catch ya later- don't do anything I wouldn't do!" he chirruped teasingly, a wide smile on his face.

"You're evil kid!", he yelled teasingly to his friend as he was walking away. "Hey, wait I don't even know if she's coming!" , he yelled again kind of trailing off as he realized his student was well on his way to tending to his own business."Always giving me a hard time..", he laughed to himself. 

"Ah well... I better get a move on; this city isn't going to show itself to me.", he whispered to himself in an amused tone as he stopped leaning on the guard wall of the bridge and stood upright once more.

Olivette happened to be back in town that day, anxiously fidgetting with her fingers. A part of her wanted to go back to the little outdoor cafe to see if the handsome stranger was there and a part of her didn't, afraid of being disappointed. But without really realizing it, she found herself absently wandering closer and closer to the location in question, despite the side streets and alternate routes in her anxious wandering, she still ended up gradually drawing closer and closer to where she had met the strange Striker the day before. And then she was there, standing nervously by the table she had sat at yesterday, her gaze shifting about her, searching for the familiar face and hoping she wasn't making a fool of herself. Even if she was, she always kept her word and this would be no different. So she waited.....

Deoku made his way off the bridge and around the corner through the crowds of people.  He was slightly lost in thought still thinking of Olive's wide eyes and cute blushing face before she darted off in a hurry. 

"I'd love to be looked at like that again with those eyes..." he quietly said to himself.  

Snapping back to reality a moment he spotted a familiar figure in the distance; thankfully being taller than most he could easily spot her over the bustling crowd.  She seemed to be deep in thought and he didn't want to miss her so he quickly made a bee line straight for his dream girl.  The bodies between her and him were no match as he expertly dodged between them; simple enough for a man of his training. Once upon her, he quietly approached her from behind and gently gave the sides of her shoulders a rub.  

"I was hoping I'd see you again, timid bunny.", Deo smiled as he was finally with Olive once more.

To say he caught her off guard would have certainly been an understatement. The moment his rough, combat worn hands alighted upon her, his voice in her ear, she squeaked in surprise, jumping on the spot before whirling about to stare up at him with wide eyes, her blush tinting her soft round cheeks rosy. 

"Eek!- O-oh! M-m-mister Deoku! Y-you s-suprised me!" she stammered, unable to help but meet his green-eyed gaze. Just like the day before, she wore a simple smock dress though her wicker basket was absent. She managed a timid smile, still a bit flustered. 

"H-hello!"

"Hello again, Olive.", he smiled to her looking back into her blue green orbs.  

"Sorry I startled you, but I do have to say I'm glad to see that lovely face again." , he gently let go of her shoulders.  "Are you feeling well? You rushed off in such a hurry yesterday. I was hoping I didn't upset you.", he mentioned looking down at the brightly blushing elf.

She managed a sheepish smile up at him, shaking her head lightly, "O-oh! That! U-um, w-well... I w-was just a l-little embarrassed, th-that's all. H-how are you t-today?" She had to pause and take a deep breath to calm her nerves, her heart still thudding in her chest from her earlier surprise.

"I'm doing much better than I was earlier, thank you.", he grinned a bright smile at her. "Olive...remember what I told you yesterday?", he asked to the elf. "There's no need to be embarrassed around me. I like you as you are."

Despite his reassurances, she still felt her face heat. It was going to take some getting used to. She let a smile grace her features, fingers brushing forest-hued tresses back behind a length, pointed ear. "W-well... you said you wanted to s-see the city...." She let her gaze wander towards the rows of stalls with their merchants peddling their wares to the public. 

"There's a lot to see...."

"True...as much as I'm enjoying the beauty right in front of my eyes I guess we should get moving.", Deo stated as you looked in in the direction of the stalls as she did.  "Thank you again for doing this for me and taking time out of your busy day, Olive.  I really appreciate this.", he thanked the elf as he took her hand getting ready to walk with her around town.

Olivette was a bit taken aback by how physical Deoku tended to be even though they were strangers and had just met the day before, her gaze briefly falling to his hand reaching for her own and in a bashful panic, avoided his grasp by raising her hand to nervously brush some of her hair back behind a pointed ear, stepping ahead with an anxious smile, 

"Um sh-shall we then...?" she implored.

"Sure we can get started, I have no problems with a lady that loves to take charge.", Deoku watched as she quickly walked away again and moved to keep up with her.  "I'm in your capable hands, Olive.", he smiled at the shy elf even though she could not see it.

"So this is Market Street." she started as Deoku caught up and easily fell into step beside her. 

With the focus now diverted from her, she felt far more relaxed than she had before and the tension seemed to have eased from her person. They set off down the street, weaving in and out of the thick cluster of people hustling and bustling about, going through their daily routines and other business they had, passing stalls and their respective merchants enticing passer-bys to stop and shop their goods, some human, others trolls, otters, even a giant beckoning those who passed. 

"This is perhaps the heart of Calpheon city. People all over come here for the trade and business opportunity. It's also a great place to establish a network and to gather information."

The tall man nods as he listens to Olive's sweet voice among the crowd of people," That makes sense.  Seems like any information one would need whether good or bad could be gathered here."  

Deoku looks around at the different shops as they walk; seeing everything from book sellers to food stalls, furniture, and many other items a person could want.  He smiles as they pass by the fruit stand where he first saw Olive; definitely, a memorable spot for him even though simple and probably meaningless to most other than purchasing their fruit there.

As they continued to move away from the upper eastern gate and proceed closer towards the center, they passed the inn on their right and headed towards the bank, already crowded with people. They arrived by the northern gate and Olive turned to regard the bank, 

"This is the North gate and the bank can be found there. Beyond this point, down the street and to the west is the slums. It's dangerous there as most crimes happen in the alleyways there. Riots tend to erupt and criminals that try to avoid the law tend to hide and conduct their illegal businesses there." she glanced down towards the slums anxiously. 

"I try to avoid that part of the city. The Guards are constantly on patrol down there and it gets chaotic. It's not a place for decent people."

"Hmm, I guess even a town this grand can't escape having areas like that as well.", he looked toward the direction she mentioned then back to her.  

"You seem nervous when you speak of that place... Is everything ok?", Deo asked, reading the anxiousness in her body language.   

" If there's something you need help with Olive, please feel free to ask me.  It's what I do for a living after all.", his green eyes looked her over with genuine concern.

She offered a reassuring smile, shaking her head, "No, it's nothing like that. It's just not a place I would want to walk through. I try to avoid trouble if I can help it, you know?" 

She turned them around and retraced their steps, heading back towards the bridge and heading out across it, pausing by the cement guard rail to overlook the river that flowed through the city below. 

"Below are the docks. You can access them by using the stairs back along Market Street. Fishing tends to fickle but it's a good place to find work and hear about the local hot spots for fishing outside of the city. It's also another means for trade goods to enter the city and some can get a good deal going to the source and bargaining with the tradesmen."

"Ok, as long as you're fine I won't worry abou it.",  the man commented to Olive's reasoning and then followed her to their next part of the city.  

They reached the familiar bridge that he and Kenai stood on earlier that day.  Deo looked down upon the river once more as his elven companion explained the what's what of the happens down below.  He observed the numerous fishers standing on the docks; casting out their lines in hopes of food or profit. 

"I'm guessing then that this is where you purchased your fish from yesterday?"

Olive offered a dip of her chin in a nod, "The fish monger has the best catches early in the morning." she explained before continuing along the bridge, the ferry below passing under the bridge to drift lazily away down river. 

They passed the daily assembly of Calpheon Guards, giving their massive elephant a wide birth before stopping at a junction in the road. She turned to him and gestured to their left, 

"This section is called Merchant Lane. There is a Market in that culdesac where auctions are placed. There is also another out the northern gate by the bank." To their right, she added, "This is the Workshop District. All manner of craftsmen set up shop there from Tailors to Blacksmiths. It;s also a good place to pick up supplies for your own crafting if you happen to dabble in the art."

" I guess I should have expected a large military presence in a place this large.  Especially since so many things can happen unexpectedly.", he mentioned as they passed by all the knights and soldiers in the street.  

Following Olive to another merchant area; Deoku chuckled a bit, "I don't think I've seen so many shops in one town before." 

He looks to the left first watching the merchants move about and the buyers clamoring to get their hands on a good deal.  Then focusing his attention to the right watching the craftsmen working on their products, others carrying finely made noble dresses and suits."  

He thought for a moment, "You know Olive you'd look really good in some of those outfits. You look great now I can only imagine you all dressed to impressed.  I'd definitely look forward to seeing that...", he commented as the two of them continued to tour.

Once again, the unexpected compliment had Olivette blushing red. She gave a small, nervous titter and hastily resumed the tour, gesturing up ahead as she walked on. She turned down the street taking them past the auction house to cross over another bridge and they found themselves in a more upscale part of the city, a large lavish fountain spewing water in the center of a grand square. Further up, elevated well above the rest of the city where a bell tolled with a gentle chime and up ahead a courtyard filled with soldiers was displayed for them to see. 

"This is the Noble Quarters. The wealthy and the politically important congregate here. The Valkyrie Academy is also in the area."

He gave the blushing elf one of his bright smiles as they walked further into Calpheon.  The entire look and feel of the city suddenly changed.  Deoku nodded to no one in particular,

"You can definitely tell this is the noble section even without having lived here long.  Everything in this area of the city is so crisp and pristine.  Even the buildings seem to be made of the finest stone and marble they could get their hands on.: The striker observed as his green eyes scanned the surrounding structures and the people that dwelled within.

Even the people roaming the streets were dressed in nothing short of finery, some in armor and some in silk gowns and suits, the tone of those speaking proper and dignified. Scholars could be seen going to and from a grand building off to the side, 

"The Grand Calpheon Library is here also. Seekers of knowledge come from all over to partake in the wisdom hidden within the books and scrolls there." she pointed out before leading him back across the bridge, passing some Valkyries in training whom chatter amongst themselves, paying the pair little to no attention. 

Once back in the junction, she led them a bit further up the street, heading south. Off to their right, they could see a large archway and heavy reinforced wooden gates," You can see the southern gateway from here. Up ahead," 

She continued on to the next location, the buildings and the folk that wandered the streets far more modest and humble than the previous with a tranquil calm in the air, far less hustle and bustle to be seen, “Here is the Chapel district. Many come here for worship in the church or come for spiritual guidance. The area is pretty quiet most times."

He saw the Valkyries as they passed by.  "Ha, the younger strikers would love this place.  Mainly the Valkyries; they'd find females they could relate to easily here.", he commented.  

"Often I felt like we were 2 sides of the same coin when I heard of them.  Both of our groups consist of a single gender, both groups trained to fight from birth till the time they leave their training grounds, both warriors through and through.", he explained to Olive as they continued on to the chapel part of the city.  

Deoku noticed the religious signs and architecture all around; as well as the priests and worshipers quietly moving about. “This area somewhat reminds me of home. Often the monks would meditate or pray..this just lacks the training portion of that."

Olivette's lengthy ears perk up curiously, "Oh? How interesting! I admit I find what you've shared with me about Strikers fascinating. Perhaps you can tell me more sometime. Perhaps your friend Kenai will take interest in the Valkeries as you said." 

She continued on, her pace casual and leisurely. Periodically, they were greeted by a priest or a commoner and further down the street, they passed a gathering outside of a large open building. The half-elf merely shook her head and continued past, 

"A wealthy Demi-Beast lives there... Lady Lavientia Batian. A vain creature that sits upon wealth like a pedestal. I think her husband is on the council and there are many stories that circulate about her. She hordes gold and makes her own products with the highest quality of ingredients and sells them for inflated prices." They moved on before finding themselves in a calmer section of the Chapel District once more, gardens scattered here and there, modest but calming.

"I'd gladly tell you more about the strikers, Olive.  It'll give us something to chat about on another date?", he gave the green haired elf a big smile. 

"He might enjoy talking to some of them depending, but I think that's as far as things would go."  

As they passed by the large gathering of people outside of a building Deo noticed another change in Olive's tone.  "She seems to rub you the wrong way, though I can understand why.  It's hard to watch people who struggle for every bit of silver they have be robbed of it  through shady practices and prices.", Deo commented to his lovely guide.  

"I bet she doesn't leave this place often.  People like her have their power and wealth rooted and if they were to go anywhere else they lack that kind of power." 

The striker grinned at the sight of the next location. "Gardens...you definitely brought us to a nice and quiet little romantic spot Olive."He kneeled down plucking a flower and placed it in Olive's hair. 

"One beautiful delicate flower for another..."

A gentle blush graced her cheeks as he slipped the blossom into her hair, right about her ear, "You're very kind." 

She passed a glance around them, enjoying the calm relative quiet of the Chaple District, a sigh on her lips. "This is a great place to come and think. A stroll through the district always seems to help me sort out my thoughts." she mused.

They continued along the road for a ways before pausing before another large archway with the familiar reinforced wooden doors, "This is the East gate."

Deoku enjoyed the look upon her sweetly smiling face and cute soft dimpled cheeks.  "This is truly a nice peaceful place to think, or even just a great spot of a person wanted a bit of serenity for a moment.", he thought aloud as he viewed the area.  

"Not to pry, but what kind of thoughts are you trying to sort out?  From what I know of you so far you don't seem to live a complicated life full of drama.  Which is definitely a good thing." the man let a light laugh escape at the thought of some of the drama queens he's met along the way.

Olivette shook her head, "Nothing really, just thoughts about my parents, memories of growing up. Personal things." she offered him a shrug. 

She turned around, heading back up the street a little bit before stopping, turning back to look at him, "And... that's Calpheon city.  But nothing really compares unless you take the time to walk around and really explore what the city has to offer." 

She absently reached up to toy with her hair over her shoulder before flicking it back. "The festivals are also a time when the city gets really crowded."

"I definitely plan to explore the city more but this was a good start of knowing where everything is.", Deoku told the elf in agreement, looking her over as she turned and played with her hair for a second.  

"That and it was a great excuse for going out with you, so it served two worthwhile purposes.", the tall man continued.  "As for the festival, I was going to ask about that I noticed all the decorative roses around town and in the area...  It looks really nice not to mention provides a rather pleasant scent."

Olive nodded, passing a glance around at all the decorative roses in varying shades easily found all over the city, "Not just the celebration of the end of spring but every holiday it seems has some sort of festivities going on in the city." she remarked. 

"Always something to do if you know where to look. Honestly, I was away from home for a handful of years and only recently returned so some things may have changed from what I remembered when I was far younger." 

She offered a light shrug, "Things change in two hundred years, whether I'm here to witness them or not."

"Many of the towns I've been to before heading here often had similar decorations and events going on during holidays.  One this active surely wouldn't be left behind in the festivities.” 

Deoku scratched his head in thought," Hmm, that's true I had completely left out the fact that you're an elf, or at least half elf.  You have time to see so much in the world, while we humans are short lived." , he paused for a moment seemingly deep in thought.

She sighed softly, nodding as her gaze fixed off somewhere far away. "Yes... it seems like I had so little time with my father who was human. And even less with my elven mother who died when I was still very very small. Sometimes it seems like time hastens and I can't keep up."

"It's easy to see the good and bad of having such long lives.", the striker nodded. 

"Not to bring up hard memories, but I'm just trying to better understand elves.  Did your mother pass from age or something else? I had always thought the elves were ageless outside of external things ending their lives.", he asked curiously. "I had never really thought to ask before and not many really cared to associate much with a human outside of business."

There was a small pause before Olivette turned to regard him, her expression surprisingly composed and honest, "My mother was a scout stationed at Longleaf, further south of the city down past Trent. There has been a long-standing trouble with Cyclops there for years. At the time, my mother and father lived in Trent together after I was born but she was often stationed at her post there and one day... she never made it back home." 

Her hands once more took to toying with the length of braided hair pulled around her. "I was too young to really remember her."

"Say no more, I understand.  Judging by the daughter she brought into this world I'm sure she was a great woman.", he smiled to her. 

"I never knew either of my parents.  I was raised at the temple ever since I could remember anything.  Growing up; the elder monks were my parents and the other  strikers my brothers.", Deo calmly told her of his parentage.  

"But I always look at things on the bright side when I can.  The both of us regardless of our background..we both turned out to be wonderful people.  I'd think that's all that any parent who cared would hope for their children."

She smiled, nodding in agreement, "I think that's true. I would hope for as much with my own children." she remarked thoughtfully. She let her hair go, the length of her braided forest green hair swaying gently behind her. 

"But everyone is different, regardless of upbringing. Every soul reacts to the trials and tribulations of the world in their own way." 

A few small birds flit by, drawing her gaze briefly before looking down over the stone wall and the drop on the other side, a view of the lower roads and the Workshop District, her hands resting atop of it a moment. 

"Anyways... I guess that concludes the "tour" of the city. I hope it was helpful."

"It was very helpful Olive. I got to know more about the city and a little bit more about the lovely green haired elf that calls it home. ",he said as he looked out toward the city.  

"I guess you have a lot to do so I shouldn't hold you up, but I have to thank you again for coming. ", Deoku mentioned as he looked over to her again, his ebony strands swaying lightly with the breeze. 

"I'm sure Kenai will be filled with questions ready to give me a hard time next time I see him." he mused. 

"Before we part ways, Olive. Will I see you again for possibly a more formal date sometime?", he questioned wanting to in his mind to reach out to her but resisting his body's urge remembering that she ran off the day before.

Olivette's lengthy ears perked up as her attention shifted back towards Deoku, considering him curiously, "Why would he give you a hard time? I'm sure you can show him what I've shown you today." she stated, misunderstanding. 

"This Kenai seems like a curious person. But I can see you are very fond of him." she smiled softly. "Um... a-as for the other thing...." Her cheeks tinted pink as she sheepishly averted her gaze from him, 

"Perhaps we will see one another again soon, if you stay in the city for a while anyway...." she replied coyly. "It... would be nice."

The striker laughed, "Not to worry.  His hard time is just his way of teasing me about things. And yes I'm very fond of him. Kenai is my friend and student but more importantly, he's like a son to me.", he stated proudly. 

"I'm sure you will get to meet him sometime soon.  I plan to stick around as long I can, because I would like nothing more than to see you again.  That would surely be nice indeed.", he hesitantly took her hand gently placing a kiss upon it once more but let it go soon after as not to run her off this time around.

Naturally, Olive blushed deeply at Deoku's display of chivalry, his kiss to the back of her hand making the blush spread from her face out to the tip of her lengthy ears, her gaze fixed upon him. She stammered, realizing she should probably say something rather than stare at him, flustered, 

"U-um, o-oh! Er- y-yes...? I-I mean th-that w-would be n-nice...." She managed a sheepish smile as he faced her.

"Olive, I'd be lying if I said I didn't like the way you look at me with those lovely green and blue eyes of yours.", he complimented her.  

"Great! it's settled then. I'll stick around and we can meet up some more, and I'll be sure to think up something nice for our date.", Deoku told her in agreement, watching her cute reactions as he observed her blushing features and sweet stammering of her soft angelic voice.  

"I know you are rather shy so I'd not ask to allow me to walk you home, but would you like for me to at least walk you somewhere close to it?"

Olive offered him a meek smile, her cheeks still red as he spoke, feeling warmth well up in her with the way he looked at her and complimented her, leaving a flutter behind in her chest. 

"W-we aren't far. I can make it there o-on my own, b-but thank you, Deoku." Her hands folded in front of her, her fingers laced together as she stood to face him, her long pointed ears flicking periodically back and forth. 

"U-until we see one a-another again...?"

"Ah, so you're not far from home, that's good then.  Just be careful on your back."  He wanted nothing more than to hold her and ease her fears but knew how anxious she'd get, so instead, he nodded to the elf, 

"Don't worry we will meet again, Olive. So yes until then..I'll be looking forward to that meeting." , he gave her a genuine reassuring smile.

She beamed up at him and offered a shy little wave before turning and departing, taking the stone stairs a few yards away to make her way down to the lower street, heading towards the lower eastern gate, leaving Deoku behind.

"Bye, Olive.  I can't wait until we meet again.", he says to her with a wave as she turns to leave.  He takes a deep breath as he watches her disappear down the steps. 

"Such a beautiful little elf.", he quietly says to himself before he also turns to leave and look around town on his own for possible jobs that need to be done.

Leilani finished changing her clothes, getting out of her armor for the day into a more casual top and skirt.  As she passes her window she spots her best friend walking slowly yet still red in the face again the second day in a row.  Even though Olive wasn't running like the last time she saw her she still noticed an anxious expression.  Concerned about her friend Leilani rushed out of her home to greet Olive as she slowly made her way from the east gate.

Olivette had just made it to her door, fumbling with her keys when Leilani approached, startling her with a small squeak, her face still rosy from her flustered blush. 

"O-oh! Leilani! H-hello!" she stammered, offering an embarrassed smile. "H-how are you, t-today?" she implored, trying to act natural but if there was one thing Olive wasn't good it, it was certainly lying.

Leilani looks at her friend a bit skeptically,"I'm doing great Olive.  But the real question is how are you? Are you ok?", she looked at her friend a bit concerned. 

"You're usually not so nervous around me, and the last two days you've been practically rushing to get into your home like you're fleeing something....", Leilani gasp and hugs Olive at her own thought. 

"Wait is someone trying to hurt you Olive? If so we can go find my sister and get whoever it is to leave you alone!"

Before Olive could get a word in otherwise, she found herself crushed in Leilani's concerned embrace with an audible "eep!" though she managed to return the hug with an awkward pat on her back, 

"N-no! No, it's nothing like th-that, Leilani- I p-promise...." she stammered, attempting to avoid looking in her friend's eyes, her lengthy ears tilted downwards sheepishly. 

"J-just not good with... people, I-I guess...?" she tried to offer, hoping it would be left at that.

The tall elf looked down to her friend noticing her avoiding eye contact which was also unusual for her when it came to Leilani, but she simply nodded, "Ok Olive.   I was just worried about you is all.  If you do need my help though please don't be afraid to come knock on my door.".  She then smiled, 

"I'll let you get into you home so you can get yourself together."

Olivette managed a sheepish chuckle, feeling all around silly as she rubbed at her cheek, still warm from her blush."I'll be alright- I promise. I'm just not used to flattery and compliments from anyone and... w-well...." she paused, casting a look around as if to ensure they were alone, 

"I met someone the other day and they wished to be shown around the city. I have always lived here so I figured there would be no harm b-but... w-well, he say's things that make me blush and I... well.... I'm trying to be careful." she revealed honestly.

Leilani paused for a moment a bit wide eyed in surprised at what her friend just told her, and soon snapped out of it with happiness,"Oh my, this is great news Olive! And please if you need any advice feel free to talk to me." the tall elf exclaimed with genuine joy. 

"Wait, nothing he is telling you to make you blush is dirty is it?" she wondered. "If not then this is good.  No wonder you've been running around here with your heart all a flutter.." 

Leilani giggled at the thought. "Well, it sounds a bit clear on how he feels about you, but how do you feel towards him so far?" she questioned as she gave a sly smile to Olive.

Olivette's face went red and she sputtered, embarrassed, waving her hands frantically in front of her as she shook her head, "No no no! I-it's not like that! He's a stranger and we only j-just met yesterday! I w-was only trying to be nice and help, that's all!" 

She took a moment to recollect herself, "I-I mean, he seems very nice so far. Not crude or unpleasant. Just... u-um... very handsy." she remarked absently, trying to think of the correct word. Then she realized how that sounded and hastily corrected herself, 

"I-I mean not in a perverted way! J-just g-grabbing my hands a-and t-touching my shoulder- th-things like that!"

Lei grins happily at Olive,"Oh my sweet Olive is growing so fast. Just the other day she made a new best friend...an elf nonetheless and now she has an admirer.", the elf playfully told her.  

Leilani then looks Olive over," Hmmm well, at least he's being a gentleman and keeping it to your hands and shoulders I guess, but I'm noticing something else too.", she then points tot he flower in Olive's hair. 

"A gift from your admirer I assume? Olive I don't mean to butt in ...but I think you should consider this one.". She looks at her friend's eyes, "I don't know much about your past 200 or so years, but in that time you've never found someone you love or that loved you back? If not this is that opportunity knocking at your door; after all he's clearly interested if ever there were an interested man. Just something to think about."

For a long moment, Olive just stared at her friend, not sure what to say or how to even react. So she stood there and blushed something fierce, her blue and green colored gaze searching her friend's features, 

"I've never... A-anyways- I don't know, like I said I'm trying to be careful. I don't want to rush into anything, let alone with someone I don't know very well. But who knows what fate holds for us." she offered with a shrug.

"Never?", Lei asked a bit astonished. "Well, don't feel embarrassed about it.  I only found such a few years ago as well and I've been in this world for 232 years.", she revealed to her blushing friend. 

"You do whatever you're comfortable with Olive, but one word of advice.  I'm going to assume that he's human.  Do take your time so that you know if it is right, but if you are interested, make sure you act on it.  Unlike us he'd not be able to wait elf years; their time is short and limited, unfortunately. Not to mention you deserve happiness too, and someone that can show you love different from your parents or your best friend.", she smiled to Olive and gave her cheek a sweet and gentle caress as she gave her words of encouragement. 

"Please don't forget I'm always here if you need me..for anything."

Olivette frowned in thought, dipping her chin in a small nod, "That... is another reason why I'm being cautious. But I'll take your words to heart. I just... need to sort all this out- it's still very new to me. No one has.... uh, every found me p-pretty before.... Not honestly." she admitted, feeling awkward. There was a brief moment where she recalled all the bullying of her youth and shook her head, clearing the memories away. 

"A-anyways, thank you, Leilani. You are very kind and I'm so happy we're friends." she flashed the taller woman a genuine smile.

"No worry Olive. I'm just happy I can be here for you especially when something so exciting is going on.", she smiled back to the shorter elf. "I can understand your nervousness and being cautious becuase of the past,  I just want to see you genuinely happy and not let a good thing pass you by." 

Lei's compassionate green eyes met Olive's as she spoke.  " Just ask yourself this when you are alone with time to think.  What does he have to gain or lose by getting you interested in him; aside from you, that is? That should help clear some doubts from what you already know and as you learn more about him.",  she added.

"And by the way...you're gorgeous regardless of what anyone else told you.  You're prettier than you may think.  Afterall this guy seems drawn to you, and I'm sure after he spent time with you, he just wanted you even more." she giggled. 

"You know that would explain the date he set up for you to give him a tour now that I think about it..."  the elf lightly rubbed her chin in thought for a moment.

Another wave of embarrassment washed over Olive at her friend's words and the sincerity behind them and for a moment, she felt warmth flood her face with a renewed blush. It was an unexpected surprise, being called pretty by someone- let alone someone like Leilani- and she managed a genuine smile, flattered that someone would even think so. She paused to look down at herself, however briefly, before she looked back to Leilani and sighed, 

"I guess you're right. I... have a lot to consider...." she admitted, mulling possibilities over in her mind. "Thank you, Leilani."

Leilani giggled and smiled at her friend before giving her a big comforting hug," You do have much to think about, but don't worry it will turn out fine.  Just have confidence in yourself.  One day I will show you what I think he sees when being around you." she then released Olive not wanting to smother the smaller elf.  

"You are always welcome and again remember if you need me for anything I'm just right next door.", she looked into her friend's eyes knowing there were many thoughts running through her head at the moment.

Olivette nodded, her smile grateful for her friend's support, "I appreciate that more than you know, Leilani. I'm so lucky to have found such a good friend." 

She pushed her door open, turning back one more time to offer the taller elf a wave, "I'll bring you something sweet tomorrow if you'd like. I think I'll be making a peach cobbler." she mused with a smile.

"Of course I would love that Olive!", Leilani said in delight thinking of Olive's sweet treats.  The elf smile to her friend as she entered her home and offered a wave in return as she turned to head back to her own home. 

"Until next time Olive!"