#since food is the basis of culture i feel. it brings people together is the biggest reason

[gourde]

Okay but on the topic of wonderful food around the world and how narrow people's (WHITE) views are on it

Every time I see a goddam post about "Autism dinner" and it's some shit ass fries and nuggets pisses me off so bad like why is it always that. And then I think about how white families really don't give their kids anything outside of american and italian and then I really think that. There's just a culture of "Kids' food" and "Adult's food" in the west ESPECIALLY USAmerica while in most other countries it's just food. It's food the family eats together. Which creates an artificial pickiness since they simply weren't exposed to different foods as a kid. And also the culture surrounding foods too such as kids not liking broccoli or their greens which is made up. I hate that shit. Food is amazing I love food we need to rewrite the whole of culture

[rosecoloredwriting]

Best Friend Tings~

A/N: This idea came to me and then boom! This might be a whole series of headcanons i got so many ideas bro!!!! 

Summary: Sometimes in life having a best friend is better than getting a s/o 

Pairings: Izuku Midorya x GN!Reader(Platonic), Katsuki Bakugou x GN!Reader(Platonic), Shoto Todoroki x GN!Reader(Platonic), Hitoshi Shinso x GN!Reader(Platonic)

Izuku Midoriya

We can see from the show he didn’t have any friends before u.a(katsuki doesn’t really count)

So boy must have been lonely before ua like todoroki

He nerded out by himself, no one else to talk to other than mama inko

So meeting you made his life better

he’s up to date on meme culture too

You slide in one vine reference during a convo ONCE when you met and he responds back subconsciously with his own

Instant connection

Like lightning strikes and you both just do the spiderman pointing at each other meme

Vine might be dead but that won’t stop you

Both of you start turning into beams of light

He gets sparkle eyes when you both don’t stop with the vine references

Numbers exchanged and you both find out to be major nerds for certain shows

Late nights are spent sending each other memes/videos and the next day you both are holding in fits of giggles

When the dorms are put in place pure chaos

Yall are inseparable 

There’s a lot of sneaking around because guess what you’re doing instead of sleeping 

watching✨✨TikToks✨✨

Or watching those Russian car crash videos

You go into a youtube deep dive at 3 am together

One brain cell is shared between you two ok

Deku squad are the vibes ok

Ilida can’t believe how 2 of some of the smartest people he knows can turn the exact opposite

“Ilida can you do us a favor? Would you be willing to run while holding us like balloons?”

“What are you talking about!?”

“Ilida me and (Y/N) thought of having Uraraka join us by making us float and have a rope tied around us with you running around!”

“As your class president I will not allow you to do such a thing-!” Cutting him off you turn to Izuku

“I told he wasn’t gonna say yes.” Sighing in disappoint.

“Should we try Kacchan?” 

“I’ll do the talking got it!” You leave behind a dumbfounded Ilida wondering why his friends can be so smart yet do such stupid actions.

Do not be fooled though

You call out izuku when necessary, you both may be chaotic with one another but like hell!!!! you’ll let him slip up because you’re besties and actually have brain cells(sometimes)

From the glare you’re sending him he feels like a disappointment because he caused his bestie trouble and worry

In conclusion: Yall are ride or die

Were talking the strength of the pillars of those temples in Greece

Katsuki Bakugo

It kinda just happened before the classes eyes

Like no one gets how bakugo manages not to blast your eardrums everyday

He just somehow sees you’re genuinely trying to be friends with him and get to know him

At first, he thought you were some extra following him like the rest of Baku squad at first and somehow saw that you don’t see him godly or anything you just really enjoyed being around him

Slowly you both understand one another

He’s kinda scared cause I don’t think bakugo has ever been like close close with someone before

So it’s slow like his friendship with Kiri

Speaking of Kiri cause this is a package deal if your friends with bakugo

You both will just watch him when someone pisses him off 

“Someone tried to test him right,” you said while passing Kirishima a water bottle. Coming back from the vending machine.

“Yeah he did” he replies deadpanning at Bakugou’s antics

You may be mostly a duo but its also a trio sometimes

So when he gets captured there’s a 50/50 chance that he will come to you

you managed to get knocked out during the attack so seeing one another safe really just lifts the blanket of fear off

So when the dorms come in he will barge into your room and start up your console and play

This distraction won’t last long cause at some point he just sits there stuck in his head

He holds back tears but you just help him through

Really just strengthens your bond

From then on he comes to you and he’s very vague on details but you just comfort him

somehow you both from this experience learn how to read what the other is feeling

If you have something going on the perceptive as ever bakugo will see and somehow do the thing that just gives you a boost, he’s not either an intimate or verbal guy

He’s trying his best alright

The same goes for you in bakugo accept your just a tad slower and use your words instead 

Best friend soulmate ✨✨tings✨✨

One of your past times is either playing fighting games or just relaxing in his room

Like you both will lay on the ground, speaker blasting, taking turns putting on songs

Feeling the vibrations 

Its how the aggressive boy cools down/relaxes

Being angry all the time is tiring

One time you were in a room with someone as they insulted bakugou

Right in your face not only did you defend your best friend but you also whooped some ass that day

Conclusion: the best friends that just get each other 

Shoto Todoroki

(If you’re an endeavor stan I don’t know what to tell you for this one)

Now hear me out on this

You find Endeavor hilarious

He is just the funniest person to you

Like just looking at him makes you cackle

So when todoroki fights midoriya and he used his fireside everyone was shocked because no one has seen him use it yet!!

But when you see endeavor on the other side of the stadium scream “SHOTOOOOO!” you burst out full-on laughing!!! WHEEZING IF YOU MAY!! Like do you not see his face

When he came back to the stands you just turned to him holding in a laugh

“Hey, Todoroki how are you so serious all the time with your dad looking like that all the time?”

“I beg your pardon?”

Don’t get me wrong he was pissed because like baby just had a mental breakdown but this type of comment is new to him

“Don’t you see how ridiculous he looks with those flames of him like damn. Of all the places! Why his fckin calves!!!!! Like what kind of egotistical man does that”

Todoroki hates his dad so you bashing him really opens up doors for you

Now to me, I think todoroki throws insults at everyone without even knowing himself

Like under his breath he will say a comment you will catch it and hold in a laugh

So you bashing his father made you an a+ in his book

And so the duo begins

Since todoroki does insult people without knowing you are there to be his audience

You will stifle and hold in giggles and laughs as you stand right next or behind him

Once he realized this he subtly increases the amount he says on the daily(These arent basic insults either but they aren’t harmful, plain fun ok)

One time your laughing got to the point Aizawa threatened to separate you two

But still, you helped cracked the boy’s frozen heart

Lots of hugs though cause the boy needs it

Once you’re close enough in the friendship you jump and hug the boy in surprise

Gets a little startled but loves the gesture cause guess what yall are besties

Opening his door, Todoroki meets the sight of you holding a pile of food. Ready for movie night. Quickly placing it down on the coffee table you jump and give him a hug. He stumbles a moment before he wraps his arms around your waist.

“Why are you hugging me? We saw each other all day.”

“Just thought you needed it.” Mumbling a thank you you go to the coffee table. The surface spilling with bags of snacks.

“I have my soba and more if you want any. I even got those candies you like.”

“Really! Thanks Sho-kun! I also got those chips you really enjoyed the last time. So you ready?” With a hum you both sit down opening the food you'll be eating for the rest of the night. Grabbing the remote Shoto hits play, the screen lights up to show the Disney logo.

Many movie marathons and binge-watching nights because you need to show him so much

When these hangouts happen you have hardcore munches together

You both will have a buffet of food because boy does he love his soba and you love to do to bring an entire pile and bag full of food

Just appreciates you and all you do for him

Will definitely sneak in really expensive gifts to you

Loves to watch Disney movies with you 

Conclusion: you are the best friend he needs, he wouldn’t have you any other way

Hitoshi Shinso 

Both of you met in gen studies class

At this point, everyone in the class knew one another names and stuff and when word got to you of his quirk oh boy

He was minding his business sitting in his desk

Slightly wishing he was dead or wanting to vibe at home

But here you come strutting on over and say hi to him

He was kinda nervous cause everyone knew his quirk and just got all those villain comments

You just talk and say how cool his quirk is and he’s like ‘aw shit here we go again’

Instead, you just ask why he isn’t in the hero course

Like his quirk amazing for that shit

He’s shocked alright

So you both just stick together

You are his wild friend taking him on adventures as he complains saying he would rather watch a movie or do something

Low key in on your plans 

He trusts you with his life so don’t take advantage of that

Teases you on a regular basis

Is the type of friend where if he makes fun of or teases you 

You’re his friend

at the sports festival, you treat him to lunch because he deserves it!!!!

He made it to the last round

And fought MIDORIYA!!!

“You don’t have to do this you know.” Dragging Hitoshi around the food stands he tries his best to stop you from doing this. Even if it’s your treat he rather pay himself.

“Hitoshi I swear if you don’t just pick what you want for lunch I’m fighting you.”

“I’m being serious you don’t have too. I didn’t even win against him.” You come to a halt both hands on his shoulders. Looking him in the eye you reassure him.

“You may not have won but you made it to the 3rd round. Do you know how amazing that is! A general studies student made it that far! You did that! You showed everyone we might as well be just as good as the hero course students! As your best friend to, I must treat you for this accomplishment.” This time he grabs your wrist. Pulling you around until he sees a food stand that peaks his interest. A soft smile on his face happy to call you his friend and to have someone care for him like you do.

He is the reason why you're an insomniac now

When you blame him for your sleeping schedule he just says in the deepest and seductive voice “it was part of the plan”

Makes you want to punch that handsome face of his(but you wouldn’t you love the boy too much)

Sometimes you guys sneak cats in like your dorms just somehow manage to have cats in them

The fur is everywhere but their you fur babies

You both spend your time playing board games and sometimes inviting the deku squad cause Hitoshi has a pretty chill relationship with Izuku(plus their too social for their own good)

So things become waaaaaaaay more lively

Both of your social batteries though are completely empty

There is late-night cuddling though as weird as it sounds

when you take turns slipping in one another’s dorm you both manage to hug like it’s super platonic and just find it comforting waking up to one another

the bond so strong that you protect one another even when you sleep

Conclusion: the besties that mess around one another but are like this🤞

[swiftlymoniquesblog]

Perfectly Confused Angel- Epilogue

A/N: Wow, I can’t believe we have come to the end of PCA! I began writing this after a conversation with a friend and it turned into one of my favorite stories! Thank you so much for reading this and enjoying it; y’all are amazing! I felt like after 15x18 of Supernatural (if you haven’t seen it, I won’t say what happened) I owed him this kind of happiness. And what better GIF to end this series than with the one that started this series? I love Misha and Castiel will always have a home in my heart

So even though it’s not mentioned until later on, I envision this epilogue to take place six months after the wedding. 

You can read the entire series here and find more fandoms I write for here.

Tag lists requests are open for all fandoms but they are CLOSED for this series.

Warnings: Lots of fluff, Cas being a naughty boi! Mentions of sex but very slightly, Dean eating tons of shit (that’s a warning) cliffhanger!

Word Count: 2,350 

Reader’s POV

Being married took some getting used to but honestly, we both had wanted this more than anything in the world, so we were ready and we were quick to adjust. After our honeymoon, which Castiel took a great interest in because we got to take a trip for two weeks and go somewhere exotic. We chose to go to Italy and we explored the more popular cities; Rome, Sicily, Venice, and Milan. The entire Italian culture was new and exciting, especially for Cas because he was so used to America and the customs they have, that seeing the way of life for Italians was completely different. When you came home, you had decided to move out of the Bunker and into your own place. Sure, Sam and Dean offered for you to stay there, but since Cas and you had plans to have children at some point, you thought it would be better to have your own space and give the Winchesters their own space. Both brothers helped you pick your place and assisted in the moving, until you were settled. The first night in your new place didn’t quite go too well. Being so used to the Bunker, every little creak in the doors or the sound of the wind blowing against the windows, made both of you rather paranoid.

“Don’t worry, Honeybee, it’s all just noise,” Cas whispered to you as you moved as close as possible to him in your shared bed. “We locked every door and window in the house.”

“Will you still protect me?” You ask, in a small, timid voice.

“Of course, I will. I will always protect you, (Y/N). That’s my job as your husband, isn’t it?” He said, as more of a question than a statement. He was still adjusting to the role of a husband and was afraid he wasn’t going to “do a good job.”

“Yes Cas, we will protect each other. You have your angel blade close by, right? Just in case?” You ask.

He chuckled before sitting up and grabbing his pillow from behind him. “It’s right here, just in case,” he said, showing you the blade that laid waiting to be used.

When sleep eventually came and took over, it felt different and you felt more rested in the morning, because he was there beside you, holding you close as you slept. As the sun rose the next morning, it shined through the blinds over the window and right into your eyes. Groaning and turning your head away from the light, you feel Cas chuckle at your childlike complaint.

“Good morning, Honeybee,” he said, kissing your temple, causing another groan to push past your lips.

“If it was a good morning, I’d still be asleep,” you say, your voice muttered by Castiel's shirt.

He laughs again before trying another approach to wake you. He leaned down to kiss along your forehead, trailing down the bridge of your nose, to your cheek that wasn’t hiding in the pillows, before ending on your lips. At first, you tried to fight him, not really wanting to wake up, no matter how much he kissed you, but when you felt his hand in a rather sensitive area, you immediately woke up and kissed him back.

“So, I guess someone’s up now,” he smirked as he pulled away to look down at you.

“Well if you’re going to do this kind of stuff, I wouldn’t mind waking up every morning,” you say, before bringing him back to your lips.

It was nice to just take your time and not have to worry about being anywhere anytime soon. Walking out to the kitchen, you took out the ingredients and a frying pan for pancakes; one of Castiel’s favorites. You thought to add chocolate chips in the batter because Cas had a bit of a sweet tooth and you knew he wouldn’t oppose the melted chocolatey goodness. Grabbing the mix, you measure out enough for the two of you, adding some water to help with the consistency. Mixing it all together, you add a half a bag of chips to the thickening batter, before finding the perfect consistency. When the pan was heated up, you took a ladle and poured batter in four separate places, making little circles as the mix bubbled up just a bit. As time passed, you examined the bottom part of the cake to see if it was turning into a brownish color, before you flip over to cook the other side. When the cakes were cooked thoroughly on both sides, you scooped them up and flipped them down on a plate and placed a small pad of butter on each one. As you started your process over again, you felt arms wrap around your waist and the tickle of someone's breath on your neck.

“Looks good darlin’,” Cas said in your ear, causing goosebumps to rise on your skin.

“Thank you, should be ready in a few minutes. You can grab a plate and get started if you want,” you say, twisting to look up at your husband.

“Now why would I do that?” He asks.

“Cause you’re hungry?” You answer, confusion obvious in your tone.

“Yes, but I would rather wait until you can sit and eat with me,”

“That, that right there, is why I married you. Well, it’s one of the many reasons why I married you, but your level of sweetness should be illegal,” you say, smiling at the blush that formed on your husband’s face.

“Well, you deserve that kind of sweetness,” he admitted, before coming back to your side and kissing your cheek.

“Breakfast is served!” You said proudly, when your last pancake was platted and buttered.

“Wonderful! I made us some coffee too,” Cas said, placing a mug in front of where you were going to sit at the table and his across from you. Just as you sat down and were about to cut your first piece of pancake, there was a knock at the door. You sighed, putting your fork down, before moving to stand from the table.

“I’ll get it,” Cas said, putting his hand out as a gesture for you to stay put.

“Thanks Cas,” you say, stabbing the cake on your fork once again.

“Sam, Dean, what are you doing here?” You hear Cas question, before the two brothers walked up to the table you were sitting at.

“Oh, it’s breakfast time!” Dean said, grabbing a pancake with his hand and not using a plate.

“Um, no, it’s not. It’s our time for breakfast, not yours,” you say, annoyed by Dean inviting himself to your food. Sam looked at you with an apologetic expression before you gestured for him to help himself too.

“Might as well help yourself Sam, since someone decided we were okay with him eating our food,” Cas said, reading your facial expression.

“You didn’t want me to eat with you?” Dean asked, mouth full of cake.

“No, we didn’t but since you already started eating, please, help yourselves,” you say, not losing the frustrating tone of your voice.

“Sorry, (y/n),” said Dean, before he swallowed his food. “I thought since we needed Cas for a case, we could all eat together.”

“Well I guess that would’ve been okay but you should’ve asked!” You said, still frustrated at the eldest Winchester.

“I know and I will, next time this happens. That is, if we interrupt another one of your meals,” Dean promised.

“Knowing you Dean, yeah, you’ll interrupt a meal again,” you say, half as a joke and half as a dig.

“So, what’s this case you said you needed my help with?” Cas asked, changing the subject and seeing you mouth a ‘thank you’ to him for saving the day from more embarrassment.

“Something about a series of people disappearing from a walking trail in broad daylight,” Dean explains, this time without anything in his mouth.

“Doesn’t sound like your kind of thing,” you say, not fully grasping the significance of the events.

“Yeah but so get this,” Sam said his usual catch phrase to transition into a deeper explanation. “When they find the bodies days later, there is no evidence of any blood left over in the body.

“No blood? You thinking vamps?” You suggest.

“Seems like it, but there also are no bite marks, at least not visible to the human eye,” Sam continues explaining his research he’s already conducted on this case.

“So, what then? The only real monsters that drink blood are vampires but if there are no bite marks on the vics, then how do they get the blood?” Your interest is peaked as you dive deeper into the investigating side of hunts.

“Well, this might sound rather, off, but I’m wondering if whoever is after these people, are extracting blood in a nontraditional way,” Sam says.

“How? Syringes? Like doctors?” You question.

“Maybe, but I think that would take too long, considering syringes run rather small,” Sam answers, making both of you fall silent, before Dean whines, saying he needs a beer.

“It’s nine o’clock in the morning!” You say, surprised his drinking is already happening at this hour of the day.

“Well I need to relax a bit here, kid, okay? Dean asks, bending down to look in the fridge, only finding there were not drinks with any amount of alcohol.

“You guys don’t have any beer?” He asks, lifting back up to his normal positioning, and eyeing you.

“No, we don’t. I don’t drink and Cas only really drinks when he’s with you two, so we agreed not to keep any in the house on a regular basis. However,” you trail off, walking over to a small coat closet by the front door, Dean watching your ever move curiously. “We figured you’d be visiting at some point, so we grabbed a small pack for you and Sam,” you grin when the green eyes of the man standing before you, falls to your hands.

“Aw, I knew there was a reason why we liked you, sweetheart,” Dean says, taking the case from your hands and throwing a can to Sam.

“Oh yeah, just because I keep you stocked with beer and uh,” you say, shuffling over to the pantry in the kitchen and pulling out a cherry pie, passing it over to the easily excited Winchester.

“Oh yes, that’s my girl,” Dean says, grinning wide at you.

“Technically, she is my girl Dean, but I will share her goodness with you,” Cas defends your relationship.

“Thanks bud,” he says, grabbing his fork from the pancakes from earlier and diving right in.

You laugh, shaking your head as you watched him happily pick at the dessert that sat before him.

“Oh man, (y/n) this is some good pie,” he says, speaking with his mouth full again.

“I’m glad you like it Dean, but please, don’t talk with your mouth full. It’s hard to understand you and we’re getting quite a nasty view of chewed-up pie,” you scold the hunter.

He waited until he cleared the food away in his mouth before speaking again. “Sorry kid.”

“Alright, I think we better get going if we want to get a handle on this and before anyone else gets killed,” Sam says, taking the attention of the vacuum cleaner that was his older brother.

“I’ll go grab my angel blade,” Cas says, leaving to go to your room.

“So, how’s married life treating you?” Sam said, knowing how much you used to talk about your wedding day, even before getting engaged.

“Well, it’s only been six months but I really love it. Getting to be around Cas all the time, seeing him every morning before starting my day, it means a lot. I’m really happy, Sam,” you say, smiling wide at the thought of life with Castiel.

“I’m happy for you, (y/n). If anyone deserved this lifestyle, it’s you and Cas,” he says, placing a hand on your shoulder.

“Thank you, Sam.”

When the boys are all packed up and ready to leave on their hunt, you tidy up Castiel’s jacket, smoothing out any wrinkles left over, and straightening his tie. You refused to make eye contact with him, even as you felt his sapphire eyes bore down on you, you couldn’t bring yourself to look up into them.

“Okay, do you guys have everything you need?” You ask, stepping away from the angel.

“Yeah, I think we’re all good.” Dean says, looking around the living room of the apartment. “Cas? Have everything?”

He looks to you before asking, “come with us?” Your heart skipped a beat, knowing Cas wanted you with him, but you shook your head.

“I’m good. Someone needs to hold this place together while you’re gone,” you say, quickly casting your eyes back to the floor.

“Honeybee?” Cas said and you were surprised to hear how close he was to you, which caused you to look up at him. You stayed silent as tears softly began falling from your eyes; you always hated goodbyes.

“I promise to be home as soon as possible,” he says, bringing your lips to his in a loving kiss.

“Well good, because I’m not the only one who will be waiting for you to come home,” you say as the three men turn to you.

“What?” Dean spoke first.

“You still want those kids, right, Cas?” You ask, making sure he was still on the same page as you.

“Yes, of course. More than anything,” he reassures you.

“Well good, because I’m pregnant,”

The room remained quiet and no one dared to make a move, until Castiel’s mind registered your news and he was by your side, gently picking you up and kissing you once again.

“I’m going to be a Father?” He asks as he sets you back down and you nod your response.

“Guys, I’m going to be a Dad!” Castiel beams to his friends as they hugged and congratulated you two. What better way to motivate Cas to come home safely other than knowing a little one was on their way soon?

Tags: @tloveswriting @forever-trapped-in-my-dreams @markofdean79 @simpleboox @hobby27​ @thinkinghardhardlythinking​ @spnjediavenger​ @to-my-beloved-fandoms-2​

[arcaneranger]

Final Thoughts - 2019 Long Shows

Dear Lord. This is where all the good shows went.

2019 was absolutely awful on a season-by-season basis (except for Summer, anyway), but that’s mostly because most of the best shows ran longer than what has become the industry norm of a single season. And indeed, heading into the new decade, we seem to be seeing a major renaissance for two- or split-cour shows, given the massive success seen by shows like My Hero Academia, Food Wars, and Haikyuu!!..particularly in comparison to the new perpetual-runners Black Clover (which, despite running for over two straight years now, is still not the most popular show of Fall 2017 by viewer count on MAL, and sits at a ‘meh’ 7.2), and even worse, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, which is faring even worse on both counts even though it premiered two whole seasons earlier and the fact that it is the sequel to Naruto.

As a reminder of my rules, the shows on this list may or may not have premiered in 2019, but they finished airing this year. The split-cour rule (stating that I judge any show that “finishes” and then premieres a “new season” within six months) didn’t come into play for any 2018 shows, but it will for Ascendance of a Bookworm and Food Wars this year, at the very least.

With that being said! 25 shows running longer than thirteen episodes finished airing this year after being simulcast, and of those…

I skipped 6:

Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure Part V: Golden Wind, Fairy Tail Final Series, A Certain Magical Index III, Ace Attorney Season 2 and Cardfight Vanguard (2018) because I either dropped or have not finished their previous (also long-running) seasons.

Yu-Gi-Oh VRAINS because the simulcast started late and also it was bad.

I Dropped 8:

Worst Long Show of 2019: The Rising of the Shield Hero

It’s always fun to see that a show you hated from its first episode only gets more and more distasteful afterwards, but it’s less fun when a service you have to promote because they’re the legal option is forced to shove it down your throat because they had a hand in making it and it became a massive hit that your friends don’t see any issue with because the author wrote a story that justifies its hero’s patronage of the slave industry. This is my punishment for watching the whole first season of The Asterisk War before I knew better.

YU-NO: A girl who chants love at the bound of this world

A confusing mess from the word go, this ill-fated adaptation of a visual novel from the nineties seems like it was mostly made to cash in on the popularity of the Science Adventure series, but failed to present itself in a way that made an ounce of sense or looked remotely interesting.

Fairy Gone

Am I really the only one that saw potential here? I mean yes, it ended up a boring slog that didn’t care to move its plot in a meaningful direction, but the first episode was at least cool. I guess Izetta: The Last Witch should have taught me better.

We Never Learn

I know that I’m in the minority in terms of the male demographic for shows like this, but honestly, how are bland harem shows still this easy to market? A copy-pasted protagonist with copy-pasted waifus drag down what could be an interesting setup for a story. 

Karakuri Circus

The first episode of this one had me excited, the second and third left me bored to tears and wondering if it would continue to look uglier by the minute. I haven’t seen a three-cour show look this janky since Knight in the Area.

Radiant

Having heard good things about this show from my cohorts, I do feel bad for saying I’ll probably never return to Radiant, but when you have a show that’s notably written by a European author...and it turns out to be a frustratingly standard shounen affair with middling production values, well, you can see my earlier annoyance with Cannon Busters.

Ensemble Stars

This one still gets to me. It almost looked like a male-idol show I would finally be able to get behind, what with its rebellious attitude and oddball setting...that is, until the setting got to be too unbelievable and the show began drowning its audience in side-characters because they had to squeeze every husbando from the mobile game into the story, and it all began to resemble UtaPri a little too much...but without the production value.

Boogiepop and Others

This was a hard drop, honestly. I spent a lot of time trying to figure out how I felt four episodes in, before concluding that I was bored and not particularly invested, two things that should never describe the experience of watching a Madhouse show. The fact that this was the project responsible for ruining One Punch Man only made it worse. There’s a slow burn, and then there’s walking away without turning the stove on.

And I Finished 11 (holy crap that’s like three hundred episodes just on their own).

That Time I Was Reincarnated as a Slime (5/10 & 1/10)

I’ll be honest, I had forgotten just how livid I was with the ending (and especially the sad excuse of a recap episode) of Slimesekai, and reading back through my write-up of it, it’s certainly coming back to me. While this year had bigger demons to fight (Shield Hero), the bad taste that Slime left me with hasn’t really faded, and the wasted premise bugs me to this day.

Hinomaru Sumo (7/10)

What Hinomaru lacked in production value, it happily made up for in good execution and earnest heart. I can’t believe this came from the same studio as Conception, Try Knights and 7Seeds, but if they can only get out one good show a year, I’m glad that we got one bringing attention to a sport that many will joke about but few understand, respect and appreciate.

Kono Oto Tomare (7/10)

Speaking of giving love to traditional Japanese culture, here’s a decent-if-unoriginal show about a local high school koto club down on their luck, and the troubled teens coming together under a scrappy protagonist to bring it back to life. Kono Oto Tomare doesn’t have much that you haven’t seen before, but a decently-executed club drama with Your Lie In April-inspired musical performances is more than enough to keep me interested, and since Forest of Piano kinda crashed and burned under the weight of its own self-importance this year, it was nice to have an alternative.

MIX: Meisei Story (8/10)

It’s hard to judge MIX next to the other shows on this list because it’s almost too old-school for its own good, revelling in an eighties storytelling style that didn’t end up jiving with a wide audience this year. But at the same time, its fun character dynamics (and a very good dub from Funimation, despite them saying they’d never touch sports anime again) were very entertaining to watch, even if it didn’t focus as much on the sport it was supposedly about as much as I’d have liked.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (8/10)

I fully admit that I’m very salty about the fact that this won Show of the Decade in Funimation’s poll while it was still on and I thought there were hundreds of more deserving shows, but I can’t deny that Demon Slayer was a very enjoyable experience, albeit one that I had notable problems with. That’s not gonna stop me from getting mad when it sweeps the Anime Awards in a few weeks, though.

Fire Force (8/10)

I was very afraid that David Productions wouldn’t be able to match the energy of Studio Bones’ adaptation of Ohkubo’s previous work, Soul Eater, but I was happy to be proven wrong. Even if the last few episodes contained a bit too much infodumping, it was all sandwiched between jaw-dropping fight scenes that proved that the people who make Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure can still handle the reins of a more traditional action show.

Fruits Basket 1st Season (8/10)

I know that my score for this one is a bit lower than others, but I think that Fruits Basket did pretty well in its first season, considering that it was largely spent setting up future storylines and adapting the part of the manga we’d all seen before, but with much higher production value. I’ve been familiar with this part of the story for over a decade, and the scene with Tohru and Kyo (you know the one) still made me cry. Now, we get the real plot going.

Dr Stone (9/10)

A great start to a totally new spin on shounen, Dr Stone gives me hope for survival in the post-Shokugeki world in which we’ll soon live, as a show that wears its research on its sleeve. A complex plot weaving interesting characters in and out of a narrative surrounding a philosophical battle where both sides actually do have fair points (even if one of them is going about it in a pretty cruel manner). More please.

Vinland Saga (9/10)

Once again, a great start to what will hopefully be years of quality storytelling, Vinland Saga made it seem like it was dragging in the middle only to reveal just what its slow burn had been leading up to, with twist-heavy storytelling and a fantastic cast to match the high visual quality of its brutal battles.

Run With the Wind (9/10)

It’s not often that Production I.G. gets to make a complete, fully-realized show anymore, and this one was a glorious reminder of the potential of the studio in the TV space, and a great rebound for the director of Joker Game. It’s gorgeous to look at, the cast is wonderful, and the story is both realistic and idealistic in a satisfying balance. It’s a miserable process to get to the finish line in real life, but sitting back and watching this was nothing but a treat. At least, until a minor fumble at the end.

Best Long Show of 2019: Dororo (9/10)

Speaking of complete stories, Tezuka Productions and MAPPA teamed up for a breathtaking adaptation of an underappreciated Tezuka classic that expands upon the story in exactly the right way to create a thrilling, savage, beautiful masterpiece that focuses a laser-sharp eye into the relationship between two characters in their journey to, literally and figuratively, become complete people. Also, that opening was killer.

And that’s it! That’s the fun list. Next comes the painful one. Stay tuned for the trash heap.

[datheetjoella]

Fantober 2020, Day 17: Haunted

Author: DatHeetJoella Fandom: Free! Pairing: MakoHaru Rating: T Part: 17/31 (read the full collection here) Word count: 1,761 Tags: Canonverse, Established Relationship, Fluff, Hurt/Comfort, School Festival, Haunted House, Mentions of Fake Blood Read at: AO3, FFn, or right here!

                                         ---------------------------------------

Ever since elementary school, the cultural festival had been something Makoto looked forward to all year. In the weeks leading up to it, the atmosphere surrounding the school was even more pleasant and amicable than usual as everyone put in effort to make their class' event stand out. Preparing their event was a lot of fun, but the real fun came when their hard work came to fruition and the festival began. Seeing what all his classmates came up with, showcasing what his class made, enjoying all kinds of food at the various stalls and cafés, watching recitals and plays, it was a blast from start to finish. It was a time of unity between classmates and at the end, he was left feeling satisfied and fulfilled.

Makoto hadn't expected the enjoyment of it would dwindle when he got to university. On the contrary: everything was on a much grander scale and there were a lot fewer restrictions than in high school. Because of his job, Makoto wasn't in a club and therefore hadn't participated in the organisation, but he'd been looking forward to going to the festival with Haruka and experiencing what his friends had been working on for so long.

But more than twelve years of amusing cultural festivals were at risk of being destroyed in a single minute.

"Come on, Tachibana," Takagi said. "It's not that scary, I promise."

The axe headband sticking out between his copper-coloured locks and the fake blood trailing down his forehead did not support his claim. The instant Makoto spotted his friend, he had let out an audible shriek, drawing the attention of everyone in the hallway and sending his own blood rushing to his cheeks.

"You don't have to, Makoto," Haruka said from beside him and although he appreciated his support, it only strengthened Makoto's doubt.

Takagi had been a good friend of his since day one of university. They sat next to each other in Psychology and hit it off right away, agreeing to swap notes and help each other wherever they could. Quickly thereafter, Takagi had joined the Movie Research Club and, in collaboration with the Creative Writing Club, they had created a haunted house for the festival.

According to the advertisement posters, it was supposed to be like stepping inside a horror movie, a storyline the visitor was the protagonist of. That description set off numerous alarm bells in Makoto's head. He avoided haunted houses like the plague and vehemently refused to watch horror movies and this brought the worst of two worlds together.

The decision of whether or not to partake in this particular event seemed crystal clear. After all, he had strategically evaded the haunted houses in past festivals and had planned to continue this streak. But there was one roadblock: Makoto was a giant pushover.

"We all worked so hard on this and I would love for you to see what we made." Takagi slapped his hands together and bowed his head, nearly smacking Haruka with his axe-handle. "It's like a compilation of horror movie clichés, so it's more funny than anything. But if you do think it's too scary, I'll treat you to whatever you want."

There it was. It was not so much the promise that persuaded him, but the fear of disappointing his friend.

"W-Well, if you insist it's not that scary…" Makoto trailed off with an awkward chuckle.

"Thanks man, I appreciate it," Takagi said with a pat on Makoto's shoulder. "I hope you enjoy it. You too, Haru!"

With that, he stormed off to a group of young women to coax them into entering the haunted house as well.

The exchange left a frown on Haruka's face. "How am I on a first-name basis with your friend but you aren't?"

The dry comment dissipated some of the tension gripping Makoto's stomach. "Sorry, I think it's because I talk about you so much."

"Hm," Haruka hummed, and when he was sure Takagi was out of earshot, he said, "Makoto, you don't have to go in if you're not comfortable. I can go in by myself and tell you about it afterwards, in case he asks you what you think of it later."

Despite feeling like he was seconds removed from willingly throwing himself off a cliff, Makoto smiled. "Thanks, Haru, but I'll go with you. He said it wasn't that scary, so I should be fine."

Except he wasn't fine. The instant he stood before the room and heard the eerie music, Makoto knew he made a huge mistake.

When they entered the house, they got a handful of cards with dialogue options that they would need for certain checkpoints, then the interactive movie began. There was no way back.

Following the story that was being portrayed, Haruka and he moved into a vacant house that was far cheaper than the surrounding lots in the neighbourhood - a house Makoto would never buy in reality for obvious reasons. Right away, strange things began to happen in the house: lights flickered, keys clinked, lamps fell over and the phone rang, but when Haruka picked up, the line was dead. That was already enough to have Makoto clinging to Haruka's arm.

"It's alright, Makoto," Haruka said, rubbing his skin with his thumb. "Just close your eyes and try to think of something else. I'll guide us through."

Haruka's advice was a small comfort, but it was futile. Makoto's heart was actively trying to burst through his ribcage and his fight-flight-or-freeze instinct had kicked in, therefore he couldn't tear his eyes away from any of the things that were happening around him. Logically, he knew everything was fabricated by his peers, but it felt so real. This was exactly why he hated horror. How could anyone enjoy being scared?

When Makoto had unsuccessfully convinced Haruka it was fine, they continued. They had to investigate the reason behind these weird occurrences and found out that a hundred years ago, a young girl was murdered inside their house. It had been haunted ever since by various vengeful spirits and the only way to break the curse that had befallen the house was to figure out who the killer had been.

What the conclusion to the story was, Makoto didn't even care. A light, feminine voice ruptured the silence, ominously whispering about bringing forth suffering to those who had wronged her; suffering that exceeded the torture she endured. Makoto clamped onto Haruka's shoulders as he scanned the room to see where it was coming from. A short girl in torn, ivory robes emerged from the darkness, hunched over with her long dark hair obscuring her stark white face. She glided closer and when she stood before them, she looked up and revealed her pitch-black eyes.

When she popped up into his field of vision, Makoto screamed so loudly it alerted all the orcas within a thousand-mile radius. He nearly jumped on Haruka's neck in an attempt to hide his large frame behind Haruka's smaller one.

Fortunately, the girl noticed how genuinely terrified he was. She recoiled and forwent her script in favour of asking if he was alright, voice a bit heavier than the childlike tone she put on. Before Makoto could come with excuses, Haruka spoke up.

"He's not alright. Is there a way for us to leave?"

The girl nodded. "Code yellow!" she yelled, her voice vibrating throughout the area, then she turned back to them. "You can walk through now. No one will bother you."

"Thanks," Haruka said, and he tugged Makoto along by the hand. "Come on, let's get out of here."

Shame filled Makoto's senses, but when they passed through the rest of the haunted house and he saw the bloodied decor and props, relief washed over him. If he had to stay for the rest, he would either leave crying or in a fear-induced coma, so this was better for everyone involved.

What he did take away from this was that he would no longer trust Takagi's judgement. More funny than anything, he said. The only funny thing that happened inside that haunted house was Makoto's pathetic reaction.

When they were finally outside in the daylight again, Haruka dragged him over to a bench. Once he was seated safely, Makoto's soul returned to his body and his back slumped like all the life force had been sucked out of him.

"Are you okay?"

He looked up at Haruka with blazing cheeks. "I'm sorry, Haru. Because of me, you didn't get to experience the haunted house like it was intended."

Haruka merely shrugged. "As if I care about that. I just want you to be comfortable. But you do need to grow a spine."

"I know," Makoto said, head hanging low, "My childish fears always ruin everything."

"That's not it," Haruka said with a squeeze to Makoto's knee. "It's not weird or embarrassing to be scared of these things, a lot of people are. But next time, you need to come out for it and reject these offers right away. Stop being so afraid of letting people down and straight-up tell them no if you don't want to do something."

It was hard, but Haruka was right. He was an adult now and he should act like one. That included setting boundaries and adhering to them. "You're right. I'll tell Takagi-kun I couldn't handle it and that I won't go in next time. From now on, no more haunted houses or anything else ghost or murder-related for me."

"Good," Haruka said, bidding him a gentle smile that calmed Makoto's overworked heart. "Takagi owes us, but we'll find him later. First, is there anything you still wanted to see or do?"

The terror within his gut mellowed out and he smiled back at Haruka. "Well, I saw a sign for a sweets café earlier. Maybe we can check that out?"

"Sure. My treat," Haruka said and Makoto opened his mouth to protest, but he sent him a look that made it clear there was no room for argument.

Hand in hand they strolled over the campus towards the building that hosted the café. Haruka asked him what kind of pastries he was hoping they'd have and Makoto's mouth began to water at the thought of cakes and brownies.

If there was anyone who could chase off all the bad images and demons that resided in Makoto's mind, it was Haruka. It had been like that since they were kids and it would stay that way even as they grew older, because some things never changed.

[ohnobjyx]

Unrelated asks

Hi, anons! I really didn’t know whether to answer these, because I think my knowledge is rather poor when you ask in detail about topics that aren’t related to bjyx/yizhan (or more general c-ent/c-culture/cql). In the end I decided to make a one-time thing, just so you can check how lacking my knowledge is in anything that doesn’t pertain to bjyx 😂.

Disclaimer: these answers are based on speculation and my own views, so they may not be correct.

Who the host of ttxs thats gay?

Oh, the easy one. Again, it’s rumoured that GTH is gay/bi because a conversation between him and another coworker leaked, and it was supposedly quite explicit that they were talking about this. However, I haven’t seen anything, I wasn’t in w/ibo when that happened, so I don’t know.

Do you think and of the untamed cast still are friends/hangs out? I love when casts are still close after filming. Ps none of them follow each other on insta so not a good sign haha

I think everyone in the cast remains good friends. They really hit it off well in the filming set, and they got along very well because of their similar ages (remember that by the time of CQL promotion in 2019, most of them hadn’t seen the other members of the cast since 2018. And still they behaved as if time hadn’t passed, as it often happens with good friends).

Whether or not they follow each other in insta doesn’t mean anything, most of them don’t even use it as frequently as they use c-social media (I think WZC was the only one using it more frenquently?). They don’t even bring personal relationships to w/ibo, and everything is most likely kept in wechat, which is a more private platform (as in ‘if I don’t have your phone number or if I don’t know you in person is rather unlikely that I’ve your wechat’ kind of private).

I love when casts are close after filming too. However, while it’s very likely that they keep in touch, contact them, and see them like twice a year in this or that event, I don’t think they can meet even on a monthly basis, since their workload is insane. So, still friends, but not hanging out very frequently (like when XL, WZC and dd spent gg’s birthday with him last year, and there was another time Yunmeng’s siblings hung out together, but apart from those two I haven’t heard of anything else).

thoughts on lhk and zzj?

What are your thoughts on the untamed cast? I think a good 80%-90% are gay or bi 💕💕💕

(Different questions that can be answered with the same explanation).

Friends definitely (all of them). Couple not so probable, from what I know.

I love LHK because he’s very very innocent (he must have been teased to the end and back in the filming set) and in my opinion everything he said about ZZJ in livestreams and interviews was real (like ZZJ teasing him with food he made in the middle of the night because he knew that LHK was on a diet).

I don’t follow them, so I don’t know how their friendship evolved from there. I’m aware that there are rumours too, but I really don’t know whether they’re reality based speculation or delusions from the fans.

(Bonus: I was curious so I had a look at the supertopic on w/ibo, which has 21,000 fans. One of the top posts was this one: 

什么时候我家cp的超话可以隔壁一样热闹

When can my CP’s supertopic be as lively as the neighbour’s?

The comments had been taken over by bxg saying hi.)

To the untamed cast anon: you’ve to take into account that the cast did a lot of fanservice for the fans. It’s not coincidence that in the pushing game they did in the Thai fanmeeting, the 3 groups were:

The actors of NMJ-LXC-JGY

SL-XXC-XY

WN-LWJ-WWX (and WN was there to make a group of three)

It’s isn’t a coincidence either that the first ones to lose were NMJ, SL and WN (the thing about fanservice is that it never looks like fanservice, though WHX looks like one of those people who doesn’t want to be bothered by it). It isn’t a coincidence either that the interviews were grouped like this: LWJ+WWX (of course), LXC+JGY, XXC+XY.

My use of their characters’ names instead of the names of the actors is also deliberate. They did fanservice as CQL’s promotion, as those are the most shipped pairs (in spite of personal preference, since I’m not a fan of LXC+JGY or, even worse, XXC+XY).

The fact that the cast get along very well helps them to give something that doesn’t feel forced or acted. These ofc all serve to promote the series, and has nothing to do with their actual sexual orientation, whatever it is.

I also found a post with a very similar, if not the same, ask with helpful numbers, but I can’t seem to find it. If I do find it or if someone can leave a link if they remember where that came from, I’ll leave it here. 

[cinaed]

Red vs Blue Season 3 Rewatch

Slowly making my way through my DVD collection of Red vs Blue!

"You can't die! I'm bored!" Donut is so ruthless in the earlier seasons and I love it. 

We really needed more Tex and Sheila girltime, talking about gender inequality and workplace harassment. 

Simmons actually calling himself Simmons 2.0 manages to be both hilarious and sad.

Yes, Sarge and Caboose team up! Season 3 has some of my favorite odd couples, and Sarge and Caboose is one of my favorites. Sarge being furious that Doc has a higher body count than he does, Caboose's dedication to nap time. 

I love Caboose's moral boost! He's great at compliments even if Sarge doesn't appreciate them. 

I know these zealots were like a mostly one-off joke, but also like...they could be a creepy potential experiment in making soldiers that can't die, which I wouldn't put past anyone in the Halo universe. 

I love the blame game of who came up with the plan that ended up with everyone scattered across the galaxy. Sarge: "My only choice is to blame Grif, for coming up with such a flawed plan. Stupid, stupid Grif." Grif: "I should have never listened to Donut's stupid fucking plan." 

Church and Grif in jail is one of my all-time favorite things. 

Simmons is such a tech savvy guy, reworking the teleporters to make them communication devices as well! He just wants some love and support.

Caboose getting angry. I mean, who wouldn't get angry at kittens with spikes that you couldn't cuddle?

"Simmons, you get an F in efficiency. But I have to give you an A+ in dramatic timing."

I do love O'Malley and Doc's dynamic. The Do Not Call list!

I love Tex's half-truths about the Freelancers. 

Also love Sarge calling Caboose a little rascal and Simmons just seething with jealousy. And he's also jealous about Donut! 

Church: There's no "I" in team, Grif. Grif: Yeah, there's no "U" either. So I guess if I'm not on the team, and you're not on the team, nobody's on the God damn team. The team sucks!

I may or may not quote that to myself on a weekly basis. 

Again, just Church and Grif together in that prison cell is sheer perfection. As is Church going "Wait, the people outside sound like they're winning, that can't be our teams."

Tucker likes Sheila so much! And she packed them food! Well, the AI equivalent of food, but it's the thought that counts! Just the sheer affection in Tucker's voice as he promises her they'll be back gave me emotions. 

And another good moment of Simmons being the one to suggest they track down Grif, because no one else was going to. 

In retrospect, Grif has clearly watched some prison pornos. Like... Buddy.

Wyoming calling Tex Allison has so many interesting implications. 

Simmons re-engineers stuff, Sarge makes a weather control device. Where's the AU where Sarge is a mad scientist.

Simmons asking Grif if he's okay after prison. Just loving the slow build of friendship between them.

Also big parallels of Church's "Misery loves company" and his willingness to let the bomb blow them all up together to later seasons stuff.

I still love that everyone's go-to explanation for stuff is "time travel."

Donut is too thin-skinned about criticism for his play. He'd never survive on Broadway, lol. But I love everything about the time travel show.

How is Tucker the smartest person in this group? But also Tucker being so worried about Church. I am having a lot of Tucker feelings this season. 

I love Grif's devotion to cheesy disaster movies. 

Caboose: Look what I found. Donut: I found it! Caboose: Look at what I took credit for finding.

Poor Donut! A grenade to the head and now his hand got chopped up.

Grif: Hey, what're you doing? Simmons: What does it look like I'm doing, I'm getting in the jeep. Grif: What're we, on a date? Get in the back. Simmons: Oh you're so insecure.

I would've watched an entire season of Doc and O'Malley and Lopez's Lair Improvements. And when Doc mentions a real estate agent all I can think of is an AU where Doc meets Kai because she's running her business on the side while in the military. But also Doc's motivational powers in the living room, O'Malley's belief that the cat won't hang on until Friday, it's great.

The iconic jeep conversation is still good now as it was back then. Re-enacting Dukes of Hazzard! "I can tell you what we weren't doing." 

Grif's mind immediately going to gay stuff as a favor from Tex. Between this and his prison conversation with Church, someone is protesting way too much.

Sarge's plans are so amazingly terrible. I love them.

Grif getting choked up over hating Blue Team and Tucker and missing the days where they all just stood around and talked a lot.

Tex sounding genuinely concerned when Tucker falls into the hall. Luckily he gets a cool sword out of it!

Tex's conversation with Simmons about shooting Lopez's head is a great example of an eloquent helmet look. Tex doesn't even say a word and you can feel the disbelief and rage when Simmons implies she may have missed.

Church: Caboose, I know you're there. I'm leaving this message from two thousand years in the past. Whatever you do, don't, touch, anything. Apparently you're this culture's version of the apocalypse. You're going to destroy this building, and somehow bring about doom for their entire race. Caboose: Mmmmmmnooo... that doesn't sound like me. I like people. And buildings also.

Time for some actual time travel or at least a simulation. But I do love Butch Flowers, haha. Whose greatest enemy is apathy! Love watching Church just make his own life worse. Also love the bit about Sheila having been made in Mexico. 

"Man... First I kill myself, then I realise I'm a honkin' dork. Not a very good day to be me."

Church: I learned a very valuable lesson in my travels, Tucker. No matter how bad things might seem- Caboose: They could be worse. Church: Nope, no matter how bad they seem, they can't be any better, and they can't be any worse, because that's the way things fucking are, and you better get used to it Nancy. Quit yer bitching.

Grif and Simmons and Sarge talking about the Blues, and Simmons saying he's not looking for friends and doesn't like his current crop AKA he just accidentally admitted Grif is his friend. Grif just didn't realize it.

Between the warthog and monkeying about discussions, Church and Grif really are on the same wavelength. 

I love the scheming versus plotting conversation.

Ugh, the arrival of Andy. I hate him so much.

Haha, Simmons lying about his math skills is great.

Uuuugh, Andy. :/ Freckles is SUCH a step up as Caboose's AI murder buddy.

"Do we really have to seize destiny? Can't we just invite it to join our online circle of friends?"

I love Lopez's little rebellion-- he might be under O'Malley's control, but he's also going to sabotage O'Malley as much as possible. And tricking O'Malley into insulting himself in Spanish.

I really forgot that Tex straight up tried to steal Tucker's sword. 

Military law is very clear in regard to the "not it" methodology for making decisions. Sorry, Donut. 

I forgot that Donut can speak Spanish. In fairness, so did the show. 

Hello, Crunchbite! 

Next up, the PSAs! 

Some of these have aged poorly... Like, uh, jokes about 2004 politics do not land well in 2020. And uh jokes about colds and flus. ...Okay, the Christmas PSA where Church destroys the Reds' Christmas tree, tells Caboose the truth about Santa Claus, gives everyone knock-off coal, convinces Church that Santa is now wearing blue and working only for the Blues, and scams Tucker out of a $350 gift is pretty funny though.  

I enjoyed Burnie playing himself in the outtakes by putting words he can't pronounce in his own script. And Grif singing Happy Birthday to Church in prison. Also poor Geoff being told to adlib and immediately having Grif start to tell Church "You're looking buff, man, have you been working--" and being immediately booed by everyone, and someone says they'll use it for an outtake and Geoff is like "It's funny! And I didn't even get to finish!" And everyone trying to figure out Tucker's sword and him accidentally killing everyone in various outtakes. And in the deleted scenes Tex keeps making fun of O'Malley's plans to rule the universe, haha. Also the deleted scene that's just another Simmons' self-insert fanfiction, just as a video instead of a fake game in the Fan Guide.

It also gave us character profiles! I'm sure a lot of this has since been contradicted in canon, but interesting that we got specific hometowns for a few people: Donut in Leggatt Plains, Iowa, which doesn't seem to be a real place; Moscow, Iowa for Sarge, which actually does; Tucker's from Detroit, and Delta Commune for Doc. Oh, is this where we get Caboose grew up on the moon, with his hometown being labeled as Low G Colony, Moon? And hey, I always had him be a middle child, I like that this one did too. Tex likes money and scars and dislikes Donut. Okay I know that's definitely not real, but the idea of Allison growing up in an orphanage hurts me a little. Okay, and I know for sure that Simmons would die of happiness at the fact that Sarge's likes are battles, fringe science, and Simmons. Lopez likes oil and unions, and hates capitalism. My kind of guy. Last but not least, I actually really like Simmons as the son of a bunch of right-hand stooges (who probably wanted power for themselves).

[taekooktimeline]

Mint Choco: Sara’s Take

I take full responsibility for this controversial analysis 

Mid August 2018 (filmed) - As part of a run episode, BTS engaged in a heated debate. The topic: mint chocolate, in favour or against its commercialization. Members were separated depending on whether they liked mint chocolate or not. Jimin and Tae were on the fence about it - neither liked nor disliked the taste - but ended up in the “dislike it” team. This is all true, they were actually grouped on the basis of their relationship with mint choco - how they really felt about the ice-cream. They were NOT grouped by any other secret criteria. This is extremely important to remember. However, I believe there was a hidden motive for this debate and that it wasn’t a coincidence that they chose food as the topic (preference-oriented), especially one that is only enjoyed by a minority of society. The topic had been pre-planned along with the ending and final consensus. At the end, Yoongi - as the moderator with the prepared cards - very clearly said: “We don’t want to say that someone is wrong and someone is right, we just want to take one more step towards a more peaceful world”. After that cue, they then effortlessly changed their attitude, agreeing to respect & allow mint choco as long as both sides were considerate of each other. Jimin also said: “The reason we were having the discussion was to make the world a better place”, sounding like they had all been instructed about how they should lead and end the debate, walking them through the scheme. Seems quite purposeful and deep. 

Their arguments were specifically suited for the mint choco debate, but the nature of the chosen topic made them have obvious parallelisms with the most common and basic arguments used in LGBTQ discussions. Of course, they are not interchangeable if we take details into account, but they are if we only focus on the general ideas. These parallelisms with food are frequently used in real arguments by many LGBTQ individuals / supporters where they bring up such comparisons. In sum, I believe they were arguing about mint choco with the sole purpose of teaching a lesson of tolerance, respect and inclusion of minorities with different preferences as part of some hidden pro-LGBTQ activism (since it’s taboo to be straightforward about it). This doesn’t make any of the members “homophobic” by any means because as I said, they were divided according to their food preferences. They were also playing a part because even if they personally didn’t like mint choco, none of them wanted to ban it in real life (outside of the debate they respected other’s taste to begin with) but they were acting as if they did want to ban it in order for the debate to be possible. I will link their pro & anti-mint choco arguments with pro & anti-lgbtq arguments - although comparisons are never intended to fit 100% - as well as point out and give insight into a comment that could be a direct connection between both topics, but please, don’t be scandalized about it because I clearly explained the situation. NON OF THEM ARE HOMOPHOBIC, even if there’s a hidden driving force. Carefully reread this introduction if you find yourself confused or infuriated by the analysis. At this point I’m not responsible for misunderstandings. If you are too young beware because this might not be suited for you. 

The debate starts with Jk trying to make the opposite team empathize with mint choco lovers. He knows they are few people but if they completely get rid of it, what about them? This can be compared to equal marriage / rights.

The opposite team distances themselves from the issue. Basically, something like: “What do we have to do with it? That’s not our problem”. A typical attitude adopted by society. (*Reminder: they are playing parts and actually talking about mint choco during the entire debate. There is just an underlying double meaning).

Jk gets political and demands a solution. He thinks it’s their right.

A comparison -

He then makes a solid point: you’re not obligated to experience it even if it’s included as an option.

Comparison -

The opposition wants to force their own views and erase / prohibit what they personally dislike (*Reminder).

Comparison -

Definition of intolerance:

The minority thinks it’s a forced opinion.

Comparison -

Mint choco team bring back up their prior argument-

The MC shows bias towards the minorities. “You shouldn’t criticize them”, he says.

Opposition questions if it’s as simple as not partaking of it if not interested. Jk continues by reasoning that if it’s not available / facilitated then minorities have no means of accessing it as they can’t make it on their own. Again, can be compared to equal marriage.

Opposition start talking about their own personal differing taste - which coincides with the majority’s - and try to use it as a valid argument to push out the variation that they don’t align with by saying “I don’t think it makes sense”. This can be compared to heterosexuality (a liking for the opposite sex/gender coupled with a dislike / distaste / unattraction to the same gender/sex) versus homosexuality (the other way around) and the confusion it can elicit in unfamiliarezed or closed minded people.

The opposition adds the visual aspect to it. They think it’s unpleasant to look at (*Reminder). This is comparable with the known fact that a great number of people feel or even express disgust when they see any type of homosexual affection.

Minority team differs.

Comparison -

Opposition continues -

Comparison -

Minority team interjects saying it’s a prejudiced thought that lacks scientific basis.

Comparison (prejudices vs science) -

Studies indicate homosexuality is a natural variant within the animal kingdom, compatible with the survival of the species:

Minority team really wants to make others understand that it all comes down to personal taste.

Comparison: these are pictures taken from Korea’s LGBTQ pride festival. “I like tomato spaghetti, do you like cream spaghetti?”, can be read on her sign. In this case she’s linking tomato spaghetti with homosexuality (liking girls in her case), versus cream spaghetti which would be linked to heterosexuality. She’s saying it’s not a big deal and just a matter of preference, “Love is Love”.

Jk can’t let go of his main argument  which is a plea spoken out into the world. He’s asking for compassion.

Moderator highlighting their petition for respect -

Comparison (pride festival, attendee) -

Opposition offers an alternative route to satisfy their wishes. Joons says mint can be found in Argentina, although it is not the top producer (*Reminder: they are playing parts).

If we research a bit we’ll see Morocco takes the lead by an astonishing difference: 92.7% of global production. It’s nearly a mint monopoly. Argentina takes second place but with a derisory 6.7%. If Joon was sufficiently informed to know that Argentina came 2nd place, he must’ve certainly known Morocco was 1st place by a huge leap. Why didn’t he mention Morocco instead?

After a little more research I found out that Buenos Aires - capital of Argentina - is one of the top destinations for gay marriage tourism. They were the FIRST country in the world to pass a marriage law that allowed even non-residents to celebrate same-sex weddings with international recognition (although limited to countries where it’s legal). Even today there aren’t many countries where this is possible because even if they legalized gay marriage some countries have residency or citizenship restrictions.

Jk says “that’s too difficult” in relation to mint choco. Going back to the hidden topic, despite these existing options, traveling abroad is not viable for everyone due to increased costs and complications. What about the guests? Even if koreans marry in a foreign country, their same-sex marriage will not be valid in their home country.

Minority team repeats their arguments because they are convinced it’s a simple matter.

The moderator shows more bias by saying “don’t keep prejudiced thoughts”. The debate has a clear direction.

Comparison (pride festival, attendees) -

The opposition argues that by enabling the polemic option, the rest are exposed to accidental contamination as a result of unwanted contact when sharing experiences with friends that have those preferences. I’m not so sure about this one because they are actually arguing about mint choco and not every argument that they come up with necessarily makes allusion or is aplicable to the lgbtq topic but it could maybe be compared to the fear of being hit on by an individual of your same sex - which is a common fear.

Minority team then suggests people should first ask each other about their preferences and that way avoid unpleasant situations.

Comparison -

The opposition argues that even if they know about each other's tastes that won’t prevent either party from pursuing what they want.

Jk suggests they take precautionary measures and separate for certain scenarios. Jin later responded by saying Koreans value attachment.

A possible comparison is this below scenario where some members of a group of friends wanted to go to a gay club but the males of the group were disgusted by the idea in fear of being flirted with or groped by gay men, which is apparently something that men in general do - gay or straight - in Korea’s club culture. It was a problem because they all wanted to party together.

Knowingly, the opposition says something quite ridiculous. Tae said he wanted his friend to read his mind and know about his taste without the need to ask. This can be compared to those who find it offensive when someone doesn’t automatically know they are straight, as if they were bewildered by someone possibly thinking they were anything but straight (*Reminder: he’s playing a part).

Teammates absolutely love the irrational but emotional comment. Perfect for what they are going for.

Minority team rejects such emotional responses. It’s dangerous territory because a lot of harm has been derived from clouded judgment caused by strong emotions such as phobias.

The opposition says you can’t remove emotions from humankind, to which Jk says he too has friends. He also has emotions like any other but wouldn’t be offended by such questions.

Opposition then says it saddens them when they see all the mint choco left-over that people didn’t buy. They say it goes against market principles because it has low demand.

Comparison -

The opposition says it’s a waste of ingredients. This can be compared to people saying it’s a waste if you aren’t able to reproduce.

Comparison -

The minority team asks for coexistence.

Comparison -

They end up running a poll to see how many people in the entire room like mint choco. Turns out it’s between a 10% and a 15% of the staff. These numbers are very similar to the suspected percentage of worldwide lgbtq population - data which is part of popular knowledge. There are certainly many commonalities.

(There are many bi people that would never admit it nor act upon it).

Regardless of the comparatively small numbers, it’s said minorities should still be taken into account and their needs should be met.

Comparison -

The moderator then utters some peace-making words. They seem to serve as a cue because the opposing team starts to take a step back so as to find common ground.

Mint choco team emphasizes their simple wish to be respected as a minority.

The opposition is willing to accept on the condition that they always ask if it’s ok to add their debated preference into the shared experience so that they have the chance to decline, or simply decide.

They also come up with the idea of mixing chocolate into their mint toothpaste in order to get used to the taste and eliminate the negative thoughts associated with it. It’s a method that replicates the mint choco flavour but without having to actually swallow, just familiarize oneself with it.

This reminds me of how consuming  media with lgbtq representation helps society come to terms with their existence, combats ignorance / prejudices and makes people much more likely to welcome their inclusion.

“Western countries in which being lgbtq is broadly accepted have tv shows with lgbtq representation. That kind of culture being liked by the general public helps the lgbtq community in being incorporated into the general society”

(netizen in favour of gay marriage due to watching american tv shows)

They all agree that both parties should be considerate of each other.

Joon really liked his mint choco toothpaste idea and further explains when questioned, dramatizing his words as he says he’d do it “to understand them” (*Reminder: Joon is already in touch with lgbtq culture).

Comparison -

They all are now finding consensus and preaching a positive message of tolerance and respect to construct a better world where everyone has a place, which was the initial plan all along.

MC gives final cue -

Messages they want to transmit -

Comparison -

Mutual consideration -

Agreement -

Joon comes up with another idea so that the minorities can easily recognize each other and happily interact, being able to share experiences that they commonly enjoy. He wishes for a peaceful world.

Comparison (minorities tend to seek a community) -

Jimin confesses that they began the debate with the intention of “conceding for others”. Definition:

Debates aren’t normally like that. What they were first carrying out could be classified as a competitive debate, but they just used it as a tool to bring a fitting topic forward, create a heated situation that mimicked society, and later deviate so that they could put a message across and set a good example. They all clearly wanted to campaign in favour of minorities. Info that I gathered on how it normally goes:

“In a debate, opposing arguments are put forward to argue for opposing viewpoints. Logical consistency, factual accuracy and some degree of emotional appeal to the audience are elements in debating, where one side often prevails over the other party by presenting a superior "context" or framework of the issue.” 

“Competitive debates may be presided over by one or more judges or adjudicators. Both sides seek to win against the other while following the rules. One side is typically in favor of (also known as "for", "Affirmative", or "Pro") or opposed to (also known as "against", "Negative", "Con") a statement, proposition, moot or Resolution. Both sides are required to embrace and defend their own positions, otherwise it’s not a debate.”

When the time comes for Tae’s final remark, he takes the opportunity to remind them that he is neutral towards mint choco (the actual flavour) but after hearing all their points he declares he now likes it. This doesn’t make much sense because your taste doesn’t change no matter how much you empathize or agree with certain postures.

He pauses before his statement and then lets out a bashful chuckle when he continues. They all laugh quite soundly - too much of a reaction. It gives the impression of an inside joke. To me it’s like he’s now specifically referring to the hidden double meaning - to him being lgbtq.

Joon even covers his face with his arm like he too felt shy by extension -

Vmin high-five as Jimin gives it up for him. Note how Tae had his hands clasped tightly together while he laughed. That’s another indicator of awkwardness / anxiousness. It’s an unconscious way to hug himself and close off.

High-five:

Tae finishes his wishes -

Good news -

The recap of what they all want to convey is to respect each other’s differences -

Comparison (Pride festival) -

(http://www.vlive.tv/video/112445/playlist/27764)

The end ! :) Hope you found it sensible enough.

As a final note I’ll leave you with their message for the Love Myself campaign.

[prettywordsyouleft]

The Right Choice - Part 6

Summary: You had hoped going to Korea to look after your estranged grandmother would allow you to connect in some way to your mother’s culture. However, being half-Korean and a single mother meant you would face the stigma of a narrow-minded society instead. Had you really made the right choice to come here?

Pairing: Mark Tuan x reader

Genre: single mother au / strangers to lovers au / self-growth / angst / romance

Warnings: open prejudice and stigma over solo parenting

A/N; Although the warnings seem rather negative, this story is one I hope a lot of you will enjoy! I’ve wanted to write this for over eight months now, and I’m glad I finally sat down to do so. It isn’t as dark as it sounds, and nor is it intentionally a dig at Korean culture as a whole.

The Right Choice will be posted daily at 10am NZST.

Parts: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

Despite being confused by your grandmother’s parting words, you had boarded the flight back home and when you finally saw your father, you were overwhelmed with need. You hugged him tightly, refusing to let him go even when Emerson started to fuss about the attention not being solely on her. Taking her out of her capsule, your father started to dote over her and you smiled, feeling a sense of normalcy.

These last few weeks had been quite the rollercoaster ride.

Once settled back at home, you sat on your bed, sorting through the things in your carry-on bag. You stopped when you saw the envelope your grandmother had given you, plucking it out from your other belongings. You had yet to look at it, and right now, you wondered if you should.

“Tomorrow,” you told yourself, collecting everything off your bed and placing it on your dresser, along with the envelope.

Tomorrow came and so did the day after. Every time you looked at the envelope, you couldn’t bring yourself to open it. Finally, after stalling for four days, you clamped your eyes shut and untied the lush envelope. You felt paper inside and gently pulled it out, surprised to find two types of parchment.

The smaller piece was hand made, clearly from the temple itself. You unfolded it and looked at the name before you.

Eun Jung.

You turned to the other piece of paper, finding a letter from your grandmother.

 My dearest Y/N,

I hope you don’t despair too much over my decision to give Emerson a Korean name. I once prayed over your mother’s name and when she asked me for a Korean name for you, I did the same then. It is another tradition that I have been able to pass on from generation to generation.

Eun means grace. I believe Emerson will have as much grace and beauty as her mother. You have raised her well so far and I know you will continue to do so. Jung means affection. Again, you are both full of love for all those around you. Her smile shines much like her mother’s and grandmother’s. A smile like that will warm the hearts of many.

I myself lack both traits. I was raised to believe in only one path forward, and your mother choosing to marry your father wasn’t the path I had paved for her. I resented her for many years. I yearned for her even longer. I realise now, from the beautiful photos you shared with me, that she chose the right path, the right man.

I know you will also make the best decisions for you and Emerson.

I am sorry I was too late in showing my affections for you both. The time we had together is precious to me and I will carry those feelings until the day I die.

Thank you for warming this old heart of mine,

Your Grandma.

 “You okay?” your Dad asked when he entered the room, finding you sobbing away on your bed. Hugging you tightly, you spluttered out emotions and occurrences from your trip to Korea. When you finally came to an end, he let out a bit of a sigh. “As much as I missed you and Em, I don’t think you wanted to come back.”

“I did, Dad. It was all a mess.”

“Your feelings are bruised but you aren’t ready to let go of the people you met there. Your Grandmother, this Mark guy. You’re still affected.”

You shrugged. “I’ll recover.”

“Don’t be stubborn for my sake. Your Grandmother is good enough at being that way herself. I know it runs in your blood too. If you need to go back-”

“Our home is here with you, Dad. It always has been.”

It wasn’t easy to get back into rhythm. You found that you missed the close proximities of everything in Korea. In a single area, you had all the shops you needed and more. Here, you had to travel to certain parts of the city for supplies. You craved Korean food more often than you wanted to admit, and whenever you passed by a bakery, you teared up.

You hated that you missed Mark.

When you had stopped to think over your hasty actions, you realised you had hurt the one person who had been your constant in Korea. Mark had always been at your side. When you were new, when you were lost and when you needed him the most.

You had shoved away someone who you now believed cared for you more than what you had insinuated.

Sometimes, you would hover your thumb over his number, urging yourself to call him. Other moments, you would write him messages and then delete them before you sent anything. It had been a month since you last spoke to him.

It was probably best that you just moved on with your life.

Except, your grandmother wasn’t having anything to do with that.

“She did what?” you questioned, rubbing your temples as a headache began to form. “No, I understand why she decided to quit but is there anyone else who would be willing to step in? My Grandmother can’t exactly go without some in-home care on a daily basis due to her declining health.”

Hanging up the call, you let out a groan. Your Dad perked up from behind his computer, smirking lightly. “Another one quit?”

“Must she torment everyone on this planet?!”

“You lasted longer than any of these people.”

“I’m family, she has to respect me to some degree,” you grumbled and your Dad laughed.

“You’d think she’d be nicer to the paid help huh?” You nodded sullenly. He gave you a knowing look. “Then again, if I were her, I wouldn’t want anyone other than you to look after me, Y/N.”

“She blew it.”

“Did you even ask her why she said what she did?” he wondered and you stopped, furrowing your brows together in thought. Had you? You couldn’t remember doing so and it only made you more perplexed. Carrying the thought around for the rest of the day, you were frustrated with yourself for leaving everything so open-ended. Whilst you had been initially hurt, it ended up being you causing just as many wounds for the people you left behind.

Emerson sat up beside you on the floor, using your thigh to get to her feet and wobbled back and forth. You held out your arms, ready to catch her if she fell. And then she looked at the photo on the mantelpiece, pointing towards it. Following her finger, you smiled when you noticed it was your Mum. Beside her was your Grandmother and your smile froze, especially when the child started to bounce around.

“Be careful, Emmie.”

“Ma-Ma-Ma!” Frowning, you had already heard her first word earlier in the month and she had established calling you Mum. This was different and with the way she was avidly pointing to the photograph, you realised what she was saying.

“Grandma?” Emerson clapped with joy, stumbling back into your lap and giggling, chanting the word over and over.

Even she was missing the woman.

You woke in the middle of the night to a persistent phone call, rolling over to grab your device off your nightstand and answered sleepily.

It was the one voice you hadn’t expected to hear again. “Y/N, it’s your Grandmother. She’s being rushed to the hospital again.”

You had gotten on the first flight to Korea, your Father promising he would follow you with Emerson in two days. After arriving back in Seoul, you headed for the neighbourhood you knew well enough now, ringing Mark repeatedly. He never answered but when you texted him, he insisted you go to the family home and he’d met you there to take you to the hospital.

You were a ball of nerves when you got out of the cab, unlocking the gate and stepping inside. Mark met you in the courtyard.

For a moment, he didn’t say anything, staring back at you, soaking you in.

You tried to break out of doing the same thing. “Mark, my Grandmother?”

“Right,” he breathed, nodding softly. He pointed towards the house. “She’s in there.”

“She’s been discharged already?” you wondered, rushing into the home and slipping off your shoes before entering it.

And then you stopped in the doorway. There were balloons and streamers all around the living area, brightening up the room. Along one wall, a banner saying, “Welcome Back Y/N” boldly greeted you and in the middle of the room in her chair sat your grandmother.

A very healthy looking version, might you add.

“What… what is going on?”

“Your Dad arranged it all,” Mark announced from behind you, smiling widely at your grandmother. He stepped around you and gave her a high five.

You blinked several times, not comprehending anything that was happening around you.

“I hear you missed me,” the oldest in the room stated, smiling smugly. “This old thing really made an impact in your world, did it?”

“You’re not sick?”

“Well, I have had some mild breathing issues after blowing all these up,” she admitted and Mark shook his head.

“I told you to wait for me, Mrs Kim.”

You turned your attention to him. “You planned all this?”

“It was a collective effort,” he worded carefully before grinning at you. “Are you happy?”

“You tricked me! I thought something horrible had happened.”

Your grandmother nodded. “It did. You left and took Emerson away too. It hasn’t been the same without either of you.”

“But you said all those things-”

“I had said a whole lot of good too,” she cut in, tutting you. “You never let me explain.”

“I told you there was more to it,” Mark mentioned, stepping closer to you and reached to cup your face tenderly. “A whole lot more.”

You started to cry then, a mixture of relief and frustration overwhelmed you. Mark laughed as he hugged you, rubbing gently at your back.

And then your grandmother stepped in to hug you as well. “Welcome home, Y/N.”

_________________

Part 7

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[mr-mikey]

Oh boy, I’m finally getting around to my blue lions write up.

Overall I quite enjoyed the character arc based story of azure moon. I really enjoyed Dimitri’s empathetic nature and his softhearted beliefs. I really appreciate that he wants attempts to understand why House Gautier feels that it needs crests and the lance of ruin while not agreeing with the choice to disown Miklan on the basis of crests alone.

My mother suffered schizophrenia though her life, and seeing the worst parts of his issues brought back memories of what she had to deal with. I could see the ugly parts that sometimes reared it’s head growing up. Even while Dimitri was at his worst I still found myself agreeing with quite a few things he said. I could see Dimitri suffering from the same heavy guilt that my mum felt whenever she apologized for the things she’s said in the past. 

And once he recovered I could even see a similar kind of guilt in Dimitri that I had to deal with in the aftermath of my mum’s passing away. 

I also felt strongly drawn to Dimitri’s ‘Do you not believe in the power of the people to join together and rise up? Humans are weak creatures. But they are also creatures who help each other, support each other, and together, find the right path.’ speech. I only got through the pain of my mum passing because I received so much support from friend’s and family. I also lost a cousin who ended his own life while struggling to deal with drug issues. These kind of issues aren’t ones that can be solved by edelgard’s meritocracy policy since there’s no mention of what happens to those that don’t perform merit, while dimitri has seen people suffering first hand because of war and poverty first hand.

While I think there should have been more lead up to his recovery and perhaps a more solid mention of dealing with those who slither (I still laugh that Dimitri kills Arundel, Cornelia and more of those that slither at the end of the game than edelgard does), but overall I was quite happy with azure moon and I’ve become a fan of Dimitri and his ideals.

As for the blue lion’s cast:

Dedue: I liked him as a character and a unit. He was so useful earlygame as a wall and means to weaken enemies for other units to kill. I enjoyed seeing him call out Gilbert on his issues. I enjoyed his supports with Dimitri and how he feels about Faerghus and it’s culture along with Dimitri simply wanting to be friends with him. I chose to marry him and the S support was really sweet, I would recommend to anyone.

Felix: Strangely enough he was pretty heavily RNG-screwed compared to my use of him in my golden deer run. So he was easily my worst combat unit despite his reputation. I do like that he does play a role in criticizing Dimitri’s actions when he’s wrong but I also feel that Felix only made Dimitri’s issues worse until he understands that the charming prince and wild boar aren’t separate. I can’t help but feel that he should have done more to help dimitri since they are childhood friends.

Annette: She doesn’t interest me as much as the other blue lions but I still liked her. She was a decent combat unit but a lack of physic/rescue/three range magic spell held her back.

Mercedes: Oh she was great as a character, talking with dimitri about how long he’s been clinging to guilt, bringing up sylvain’s personal issues, being curious about dedue’s culture and duscur history. 

And I found this exchange to be very satisfying. I made her my dancer and she filled that role wonderfully along with physic ranged healing. She’s wonderful on many levels.

Ingrid: She was outright amazing unit for me and one of my best fighters. And while I know that people don’t like her attitude about Duscur I can understand why she feels that way plus I liked that she openly admitted to Dedue that her way of thinking was wrong and that Dedue should be calling more people out on their biases. I was also very fond of her supports with Mercedes and Annette  especially since Annette helped her understand it’s okay to loosen up and enjoy the things she wants to enjoy. So overall a great unit and a good character.

Ashe: My gosh he’s the purest ball of sunshine of the group. He has a reputation for bring strength screwed easily but putting him into wyvern rider helped fix that problem and he was just as good as Ingrid and Sylvain were for my run.

Sylvain: He was another fantastic fighter along with Ingrid and Ashe. I found his supports with ingrid, Dedue and Annette to be very good. And I loved his supports with Mercedes most of all. He’s got some messed up coping mechanism’s but I like and appreciate him. Despite his reckless attitude he does know what he’s doing when it comes to matters of protecting the general population.

For this run I recruited Ferdinand and Caspar out of the Eagles along with Hilda and Marianne from the Deer. I liked seeing Ferdie being able to criticize Edelgard and her methods while also saying that Dimitri has the potential to become a great king should he be able to make level headed choices.

I also LOVED the Dimitri and Marianne supports and I was so very happy to get this ending card.

I was hoping to get Felix’s and Annette’s ending, but their supports were nice enough that I was happy to get this instead.

These supports were so funny, Hilda managed to get Ferdie to do almost anything she wanted. XD

And these supports were pretty pure, I’m glad that they both got to follow their dreams.

Now last of all, I was super glad that Sylvain married Mercedes. I know that Sylvain has similar text no matter what path he’s in but I feel that by pursuing peaceful relations with the people of Sreng, he eliminates the need for the Lance of Ruin and the need for crests without needing to destroy the church or wage war on the entire continent.

I could even appreciate Edelgard on this route a bit more as an antagonist, even if she was really out of touch with some of the things she said; her line of ‘what would a noble like you understand of the suffering of the commonfolk’ did irritate me considering I had gotten dimitri’s askbox advice about the people he saw suffering in the slums.

I felt really happy seeing the blue lions ending painting because we see the soldiers helping give out food and supplies to the people while byleth and the church is listening to the requests of the people asking for assistance while dimitri is surrounded by orphans with a smile on his face. This really feels like a case where the strong are no longer trampling on the weak and are supporting them instead.

With Sylvain peacefully negotiating with Sreng, Dimitri and Dedue working to rectify what happened with Duscur and Claude on good terms with Dimitri once he returns I feel confident that the continent will have a peaceful future ahead of itself.

On a side note: the gronder field battle ruined me emotionally this time around. I had planned at first to only target Claude out of the deer and spare as many as possible, but they all followed claude and it got to a point that it wasn’t possible to take out claude without fighting the rest of the deer. In the end none of them survived the battle. ;_;

And that’s about all I have to say about azure moon for now. If other ideas come up I’ll probably just make edit’s to this post.\

EDIT: There is one thing I wanted to bring up. A lot of people consider Cyril an honorary golden deer member. But Cyril has a good friend in ashe and mercedes and I could see Dimitri accepting him easily. So I’m comfortable with saying that he could easily be an honorary member of the blue lions as well.

[purplesurveys]

711

How fast can you say the alphabet? I can say it quickly without my accent failing me, I guess? I’m too lazy to time it. What are you allergic to? None. How many serious relationships have you had? Just one. If you could read one person's mind, who would it be? I wouldn’t want to target one person like that. I’d only be picking my dog’s so I can hear what he thinks of me, ha. If someone dared you, what dare would you be afraid to attempt? Eating/drinking anything rotten.

How do you like your eggs? Scrambled or over easy. What's your most expensive piece of clothing? Probably my shoes. Most of them are several thousand bucks. What was your last big achievement? The last objectively big achievement I made was finishing the first half of my thesis and getting the go signal to finish the rest of it. But if we’re counting tiny steps that feel like big achievements, it’s having an article published in my org’s publication this week. I co-wrote it with JM and Rick, but it still feels nice to get to say I was productive during the quarantine. What famous person's memoir would you like to read? I’m willing to read anyone’s biography/autobiography since it’s one of my favorite genres. But at the moment I’m probably most willing to read something about Kim Jong Un since it’s generally hard to find material in North Korea as it is, and it would be fascinating to hear about their life and culture there. Have you ever had a "false alarm" moment, what was it about? Sure. A few months ago I was in Manila for a workshop and my car wouldn’t start when it was time to drive back home. Pressing any button on the key fob wouldn’t work and I couldn’t open the doors, so I was pretty much just locked out. I was already stuck there for a while and I was starting to panic, so I called up my parents to ask for help and they were already getting dressed to drive all the way where I was. Right before they left the house Jhian was mysteriously able to make stuff work and opened my door and I gave my parents the happiest “false alarm” ever haha. Do you know how to ride a bike? I don’t. My dad recently pumped air into the wheels of the bike that we have in the house so I can practice riding it throughout the quarantine, but I just can’t. I never did learn what my friends say when they tell me to just “find my balance.” If you could breed two species together what new animal would you create? No thanks. What 5 world leaders would you make sit down in a room to discuss issues? Isn’t that already the point of UN? If you were in the hospital who are the two people you'd want by your side? Gab and my dad. When was the last time you cried and what made you cry? Ooh ya got me. With this quarantine not letting me go anywhere and giving me new experiences, I’ve had no reason to cry lol. 

The last most vivid reason I remember crying was that one Wednesday in February where everything went wrong  – Andrew and I got red marks all over our thesis and we got practically yelled at over how bad our work had been so far; accidentally spewing peanut sauce all over the said thesis draft immediately after it was returned to us; almost losing this one thing for the org that I 100% WAS NOT allowed to lose, and having to ask Andrew to go back to campus at mid-fucking-night just to retrieve it and feeling shit the whole time for asking that of him; and having to deal with an unresponsive source for an article I needed to write and finish ASAP. I cried nonstop until like 2 AM that night. If you could ever take a street sign, what sign do you want? It’d be such a pointless steal, so no thanks. What is your favorite ride at any amusement park? Haha anything mild and for kids tbh. My stomach can’t handle rides. Have you ever raised money for charity? I haven’t spearheaded any fundraisers but I’ve donated for some, like whenever workers from exploitative corporations go to UP to visit some classes, talk about their struggles, and ask for support. How do you feel about growing older? I’ve got little time to be scared of it because getting old just happens all the time and constantly. I just take it for what it is and learn along the way. What wild animal scares you? Probs lion. I’ve never seen one in real life and movies and shows have conditioned me to think they’ll attack any human that comes close enough, soooooooo no thanks. I’d love to be corrected and to find out that they’re big softies, though. Do you think actors and athletes are overpaid? I can argue that for some actors, but definitely not athletes. Athletes bust their ass day in and day out and are in constant need of training, transportation, and the adequate gear, equipment, etc. Some actors just have to sit pretty and they wouldn’t even be good at it. Have you ever been alienated, if so for what? This was me for most of what you’d call middle school. People were starting to be more conscious of trends and using it as a basis for who to hang out with, so while everyone had a Blackberry, got side bangs, and listened to The Summer Set, I was struggling to fit in a place where my love of wrestling would be accepted. Of course there was none, and I felt left out for a while.

More recently, this was also me in applying for AIESEC but I’ve already touched on that a couple of times here. The alienation was so bad my friends and I just resort to laughing about my experience whenever it gets brought up. Have you ever not returned something you borrowed and if so what was it? I have a couple of Gab’s jackets, but she doesn’t mind me keeping them since I get cold quicker and more often. When you pack your lunch, what's your favorite packed lunch? Loooove when my dad makes curry for me to bring to school. What was the one most important thing you learned from your parents? It’s impossible to start at the bottom and work your way to the very top. I’m constantly worried about staying at the bottom, so it’s always comforting to see how far they’ve come.

On a parenting note, I’ve learned that I should talk to my future kids the way they are – kids. Ever since I can remember my mom has always gotten mad at me as if I was already an adult, so it’s made me permanently terrified of all adults/the idea of pissing anyone off. She would always just get mad, banging stuff around, and never explain to me what I did wrong, so to this day I get very self-punishing when I feel like I’ve done something wrong but don’t exactly know what it was I did.

How fast can you run? I used to be good as a kid which is what landed me on the track team in grade school, but I didn’t enjoy running so I did it less and less every year. Now I’m just meh at it. Have you done something you worry could come back to haunt you, what? Nothing that bad, no. What is your most favorite feature of your favorite electronic device? I’m very happy with the battery life of my laptop, considering how 1) my old Macbook Air only had a battery life of one hour, and 2) the laptop I had before had a damaged battery to begin with so I couldn’t even use it/bring it anywhere unless it was plugged in. The 10-hour battery life for my current one is a fucking dream for me lmao. If you had to build a small ark, what 7 animals would you save? All the endangered ones so like an elephant, Philippine eagle, panda, orangutan, tiger, and a rhinoceros. I’d save the last slot for a stray dog. What is your favorite Christmas or holiday tradition? I love going over to my mom’s cousins’ place and have our tradition of exchanging gifts singing My Monito/Monita. What novel would you love to be transported into to live out your days? I prefer non-fiction, soz. What is your favorite hiding place? MY CAR. It’s seen my worst breakdowns, my sleeping sessions in the middle of the day, and the days where I’m okay but simply need a break from everyone. If I feel like being alone I just head inside, recline my seat, and tune out the whole world. What is something your parents love that you actually love too? Indian food. Have anyone ever said "I love you" and you couldn't say it back. This is me with my mom. I’ve stopped saying “I love you” ever since I came to terms with the fact that she has brought a lot of trauma into my life and it would be unfair to the both of us (mostly me, heh) if I said it back. Have you ever ridden a camel? I haven’t. It would be very difficult to find a camel on this side of the planet.

What's been the hardest loss you've had to take? My grandfather and Nacho. What emotion is your least favorite and the one you are not in touch with? I hate feeling embarrassed obviously, but I’m regularly in touch with it because there’s always at least one event a day where I fuck up and I feel extremely embarrassed. Do you think facial moles or freckles are cute? I don’t mind them. They’re not a common facial trait where I live, so I’m more fascinated by them than anything else. Would you ever pick up a hitchhiker? I’ve read too many accounts of serial killers where hitchhikers were involved to feel skeptical about them but I know I’d also feel bad if I ignored them. I honestly don’t know what to feel about them as I don’t live in a hitchhike-y area.

What was your funniest computer or phone wallpaper? Eh, I don’t really pick wallpapers to find them funny. If you're searching for a relationship, where is your go place to look? Unapplicable for my demi ass. When and where are you happiest? Either anywhere with Gab or Skywalk with my orgmates. What was your favorite age, so far? 16 has so far been the year with the least fuckups. What is your favorite part of the day? Typically, it would be the moment I realize I’m done with everything that needed to be done for that day, like if my last meeting has ended or if I’m finished with my last class, and all that’s left to do is to drive home. What book have you read multiple times? The Septimus Heap series up til the 5th book (there are 7) only because in the past I had always made plans to restart and finish the whole series, but I never did get around to finishing it so I’ve only just kept restarting and restarting the books.   Do you keep a budget? No budget. What matters to me is at least being able to have savings at the end of the week, which is tbh not the smartest thing to do. Have you ever test driven a car you knew you weren't going to buy? Nope, I’ve never gone car shopping like that. Pretend you're doing an interview, what's the first question? Uhhhhhhhhhh idk depends on what the interview is for? What do you have a hard time visualizing? Everything. I’m not a very visual person and creativity is my weak point, so I genuinely struggle if I do have to imagine anything. Abstract reasoning has always been my least favorite part of tests. What makes you feel uncomfortable in group settings? If all of them already know each other and I am just starting to try and fit in – it’s worse if they’re all loud and extroverts. The former is what made my internship hard for me in the beginning, but thankfully they were all very nice and could tell I was shy so they knew not to overwhelm me by being too loud. What was your worst date ever? I haven’t had a bad date. Have you ever gotten in a bidding war on Ebay, if so for what item? Nope. If you had to pick one food to eat everyday for life, what would it be? Risotto or chicken wings. For dessert, macarons. Are you supportive of your friends even if you don't agree with them? As long as their choice doesn’t entail stepping on human rights, e.g. not being pro-choice or supporting a president that supports killing the poor, I’ll be fine with the disagreement. Have you ever used the opposite sex restroom in an emergency? Yeah I had a bad nausea attack one time and needed to vomit but I only had enough time to run to the men’s bathroom before I started throwing up everywhere, so that’s where I ran. What did you think was stupid until you tried it? Ube cheesecake. I really hate ube flavor and I hate everything it’s in, but I gave it a chance when a local bakeshop incorporated ube in cheesecake since it’s my favorite kind of cake. I ended up really liking it and now I often look for it when we have family get-togethers. What subject do you and your parents never see eye to eye on? Politics, duh. Where do you see yourself in 1 year's time? Having a job, out of the quarantine, maybe saving for a trip. How scared of the dark are you? I’m fine with the dark as long as I’m not somewhere that’s meant to be haunted. What is your favorite type of seafood? Crab fat, sashimi, eel, and sea urchin. What triggers your inner shopaholic? I don’t really have a trigger. I don’t even consider myself a shopaholic. I just shop for new clothes once I feel like I’ve been repeating my clothes too much. What is the rudest thing a person can do to another person in your opinion? Insulting dead parents is one. Except if you’re the Marcoses, heh. What public figure do you disagree with the most? President Duterte, obviously. I wanna barf just having to call him President. Do you think you could ever be a firefighter, why/why not? Nope, because I’m terrified of fire and I don’t have half the stamina needed to carry the shit they have to lift when they have to put out fires. What is/was your favorite bedtime story? I don’t have any. My favorite kids’ book was Corduroy, though. What was the last thing to make you feel happy? My dog going down the stairs and going straight to me for pats once he was done. What is your opinion on rats as pets? Rats are pests here so I find it pretty disgusting. I think hamsters are fine, though. What is something you're afraid to try? Cliff diving, bungee jumping... anything that would give me the sensation of leaving my stomach behind lmao. What cartoon character best describes you? Mr. Peanutbutter from BoJack Horseman. What keeps you interested in your goals or dreams? The fact that I went through so much shit as a child/teenager that I absolutely have to make myself happy in the end, and I can only do that by achieving my goals. What is your favorite actress beginning with the letter J? Jessica Chastain. What song makes you dance uncontrollably? Crazy in Love by Beyoncé, heh. If you wanted to live off the radar where would you live? I was gonna say Sagada but everyone knows it’s my favorite place so it’d probably be one of the first areas they’d start to look... so I’d go with Batanes. That place can’t get any more secretive with their sporadic phone signal and nonexistent internet/data connection. Do you like nachos, if so what topping is a MUST have? Melted cheese. Do you have any subscriptions? Netflix and (technically) Spotify. Which is better, Mario or Sonic? Mario. I’ve never played a Sonic game and I’ve only ever encountered him playing Super Smash Bros. Brawl, which is a Mario-themed game to begin with. Who is the most creative person you know? Alex, someone from my high school who can recreate any. thing. Art is in her blood; she was my seatmate for one sem and she was constantly doodling and drawing and making new stuff in every class we were in. Besides a pickle, what is your favorite thing pickled? I hate pickles and anything pickled :/ Not really in the Filipino palate. What did you do for your 21st birthday? If not, 21 what are your plans? I celebrated it mostly alone because Gab couldn’t be present. Angela made me feel better by taking me to dinner and an arcade.

Are you a role model for anyone in your life? I dunno. I hope so, for at least one person. What song do you hate the most? Any song by The Vamps or Meghan Trainor. Do you think you need to slow down and enjoy life more? Isn’t slowing down what we’re all kinda forced to do right now? Can you impersonate anyone famous? Eh, sure. It’s fun to copy Gordon Ramsay for one hahaha. If you could go back in time to change one thing what would it be? Going out of my shell as early as freshman year and avoiding the semester-long breakdown/depressive episode I had. Can you honestly say you're enjoying your life right now? I can’t say I’m unhappy lmao. I have no problem doing nothing at home for more than a month – besides, this already serves as the break I planned to have shortly after graduating. After this I’ll be really ready to start looking for a job. What is your favorite salty snack? Pringles. What is your favorite restaurant? Yabu, Torch, Pound by Todd English, or Frankies. Idk man, I’m craving so much shit now that I haven’t eaten out for more than a month.  Have you ever been in a play for school? Yeah, we were all required to be in all the annual school productions from kinder to senior year.

[haikyuu-philia]

Hi there! I was wondering if I could get a match up? I’m a ENFJ gay guy & a Virgo. I’m a hard worker (most my classes are honors/AP) but also procrastinate like all the time. People tell me I have a very calm & trusting vibe so people always come to me when they need help or have a secret. I enjoy writing & traveling. I’m pretty dorky & nerdy & really enjoy history. I love to have fun & go crazy & be funny but I also know when to be serious & can hold deep conversations. [PT 1/2]

I’m rather witty & kind of a smart ass at times haha. I enjoy affection & need a lot of reassurance. I’m pretty stubborn but am willing to listen/debate with people who have an open mind. I love food especially spicy & sweet stuff! I also love bunnies! I dream of becoming a journalist. Learning about history & culture is always what I find v interesting. I sometimes struggle to share my emotions but once I trust you I’m pretty much an open book. I LOVE cute socks. Thank you so much! [PT 2/2]

-----

After an eternity I finally managed to get this match-up done! Thank you for patiently waiting for such a long time Q.Q

-----

I ship you with ...

... AZUMANE ASAHI!

Here are my reasons why:

• Asahi feels safe around you and benefits from your calm nature. You are able to stop him from panicking by calming him down which is a great relief for him. By listening to him you are like his personal therapists and he appreciates this a lot!

• It's good for the both of you that you can talk about serious issues or problems like the adults you are or will be. On the same time it's really loosening for your relationship and helpful for Asahi that you bring in a not-so-serious side.

• For you it's the most fun thing to tease Asahi a little since he is way too shy and insecure for PDA. Therefore even holding hands in publics is a challenge for him in the beginning. But step by step he gets used to it, warms up and turns into a big hugger thanks to your "pushing".

• Trust is something of major importance for the both of you. Especially you kind of have trouble to share your emotions without it. From the start Asahi wants to give you the feeling that you can trust him and vice versa. He absolutely wants you to feel comfortable enough to tell him about your problems and worries!

• Asahi makes sure to let you feel his love without physical affection on a regular basis. To make up for his shyness in terms of PDA he will buy you little gifts from time to time. One of his first gifts was a pair of socks with a bunny-print!

• All in all your relationship is a lot about listening to each other rather than just going for it. Together with you Asahi does things he never thought he was capable of and you find someone you can fully trust as well as lean onto.

[musicprincess655]

Mei was trying his best not to track Itsuki as he wove between people, and mostly failing. He’d been doing better at the beginning of the night, but that had been…more drinks than he wanted to admit ago.

Itsuki wasn’t quite as exuberant as he’d been in high school, but there was still a very cute quality to his body language. Mei couldn’t quite keep his eyes off it, even if it hurt.

He could only generously be called tipsy. He wanted another drink.

“Hey.” Mei jumped as Kazuya flopped on the couch next to him, arm across the back. “You don’t look like someone who just won a gold medal.”

“It’s a celebration,” Mei countered, raising his glass. “I’m celebrating.”

Even without looking, Mei could feel Kazuya’s eyes on him, and if he pretended hard, he could pretend it was judgement he felt as he drained the glass.

“Some celebration,” Kazuya said, far more diplomatic than he’d been when they were teenagers. Mei snorted.

“Maybe I should be calling you out instead,” he said. “I don’t see you drinking anything. Don’t tell me you’re completely sober. We did just win a gold medal, after all.”

“I don’t really drink,” Kazuya said lightly. “It doesn’t agree with me.”

“Control freak.”

“I think you’ve had enough for both of us,” Kazuya said. “How many is that for you?”

“Careful, Kazuya, I’ll think you care.”

“I care,” Kazuya shot back defensively. “We’re friends, after all.”

“Friends who haven’t spoken in eight years.” Still, Mei couldn’t inject enough sarcasm into his voice to make it sound like he really thought Kazuya was wrong.

“We’re what passes for friends for people like us,” Kazuya said. “Seriously, though, are you okay? I thought you’d be happy, but you just look like someone stole your girlfriend.”

Mei snorted again.

“Why are you bothering me?” he asked. “Shouldn’t you be keeping an eye on your partner? I bet he’s a handful at parties.”

“Eijun’s an adult,” Kazuya said. “He doesn’t need a babysitter.”

A loud crash interrupted them. Mei whipped his head around until he found Sawamura bowing and apologizing profusely in archaic Japanese, trying and failing to help clean up the tray of food he’d upended. His cheeks were flushed red and he was obviously tipsy. Carlos had an arm around his shoulders, laughing uproariously.

“Really,” Mei deadpanned. Kazuya buried his face in his free hand.

“Fucking idiot,” he muttered under his breath.

“So I’m the one here drinking enough for the two of us?” Mei asked.

“Just because I don’t drink doesn’t mean Eijun can’t,” Kazuya said. “He deserves to have fun too.”

“Never thought I’d hear you on first name basis with the brat,” Mei commented.

“Hey.”

“Am I wrong?”

“No,” Kazuya rolled his eyes. “He’s a disrespectful little shit, isn’t he? I should still be mad about it, but it’s been a decade now, and he’s still treating me like we’re the same age. There’s not much I can do about it anymore.”

“Cute,” Mei said. “You’re soft with him.”

“I am not!”

“Soft as marshmallow,” Mei said, poking Kazuya in the cheek. “How long have you been together?”

Mei felt Kazuya freeze on the couch next to him, and rolled his eyes.

“How do you mean?” Kazuya asked carefully.

“Did you want me to be more specific?” Mei asked. “How long have you two been fucking?”

“It’s not…that’s not…” Kazuya trailed off.

“Relax,” Mei sighed, waving away Kazuya’s obvious panic. “It’s not obvious to anyone. I just know you.”

“Oh. That’s…okay,” Kazuya stuttered. He still looked ready to bolt for the nearest exit.

“Oh, for the love of…Kazuya, I like boys too,” Mei sighed, annoyed. “I’m not about to out you to the whole world.”

“Oh.” Finally, finally Mei felt Kazuya relax. “I mean, I kind of figured? But I didn’t want to assume.”

“Definitely bisexual,” Mei agreed. “So my question stands: how long have you two been together?”

“Halfway through college,” Kazuya told him. “Damn idiot really followed me there, and he’s kind of hard to say no to, in case you haven’t noticed. He’s stubborn. He wouldn’t stop asking until I agreed.”

“Sounds like every woman’s worst nightmare,” Mei commented.

“It doesn’t sound great,” Kazuya agreed. “But…I wanted to say yes, the first time he asked. He knew it, I knew it, and the only reason I didn’t was because I was afraid. He didn’t seem to think that was a good enough reason.”

“Well, yeah,” Mei shrugged. “You’re happier now.”

“That’s what everyone tells me,” Kazuya said. “Not that most of them know why, but even my dad thinks I look happier now.”

“You’re not out to anyone, are you?” Mei asked. Kazuya had always been someone overruled by his head in favor of his heart.

“A few friends,” Kazuya said. “Kuramochi, Haruichi, friends we can trust. And Eijun told his parents, because he refused to not. They took it way better than I thought they would.”

“Well, from the outside, you’re exactly what every mother hopes her daughter brings home,” Mei said. “I guess I shouldn’t be surprised about you and Sawamura, though. You were always close.”

“Even against my better judgement,” Kazuya replied. “You and Tadano aren’t anymore.”

“Ah, well. The distance of eight years can really break up a battery,” Mei said. Suddenly, he wasn’t having much fun anymore.

“Still, you were close in high school,” Kazuya continued. “You couldn’t have been the battery you were if you hadn’t been. I’m not gonna lie, I kind of expected you two to run into each other’s arms like some shitty shoujo reunion when you saw each other again.”

“You’re fishing,” Mei said.

“Just curious,” Kazuya countered. “I mean, the only reason we never kept in touch is because I refuse to get LINE, right? I know you keep up with everyone else. Even Eijun gets a message from you sometimes.”

Mei shrugged. Sawamura was easy to rile up with challenges, and sometimes it was fun to poke the sleeping bear when he was bored, or otherwise in need of distraction.

“I really haven’t spoken to him in eight years,” Mei said. “Not since the day I left Japan.”

“Why?”

It was a question that had plagued Mei in the depths of depression that had set in right after he’d moved to America. It wasn’t completely unexpected that he’d had them. Culture shock was a real thing, and for a while, he’d felt adrift, lost at sea without an anchor to hold him in place. Some parts of his current life – namely, the one night stands that increasingly did less and less to help him feel anything – were a relic of that time.

“You really wanna know?” Mei asked. A party seemed like the worst kind of time to tell his sob story, but far be it for him to tell Kazuya no when he insisted on asking.

“I’ve got time,” Kazuya said. “I’ll go scrape my idiot off the floor in a few hours.”

Mei chuckled to himself, reaching for an unattended glass on the table and draining it in one gulp.

“It all started after we lost to you guys in the finals for the Koshien qualifier.”

[yooniegalaxy]

Okay, so this is going to be fun. So the preface behind this is that V got a few asks about this and then I went and straight up threw in my two cents... and in return got these asks. Instead of fuming about it and just keyboard warrior-ing back at the person ( using person as a very loose term at this point ) I decided to take a step back and deal with this rationally.

Trigger Warnings // Abuse, Assault, R*pe and Predatory Men Mentions. Public Masturbation. I will tag appropriately.

I apologize, in advance, for the length. I also haven’t proofread this because at some point I just didn’t care enough to re-read. Yes, I did cite things. Don’t @ me about it.

Alright, so this is very bold of you to assume that you know anything about my culture as it is. There are more than just that one reason as to why Korean women/girls aren’t dating ( which is also very bold of you to assume ). There is a great divide in everything. South Korea is a very patriarchal society, so of course there are privileges to being a man. But that can literally be said any where in the world. The world is intrinsically male oriented, despite having various matriarchal societies.

If we are talking about Korean women in general, there are a lot of reasons why they don’t date aside from the inherent fear. It is literally the fact that everyone pays attention to their careers first. School is a very large part of Korean Society, as well as a lot of other Asian Countries. Education is the first and foremost for a lot people, which often pushes the bounds of women when do decide to date, if at all.

“It says so in an article“, is not a great defense, especially since the only article I could find about this was a CNN article ( feel free to read it here ). While well researched, it is under the lens of a University study for a “Gender and Culture“ class taught at Sejong University. They do go into statistics about economic strain and what percentage of age groups are single and may not be dating.

I pulled this from the article, “[a] growing number of South Koreans are shunning romantic relationships amid economic hardships and societal problems.“ This, in and of itself, counteracts your broad strokes claim. The fact of the matter is that you clearly don’t understand how expensive it is to date anyone or live in Korean society. Even going out with friends is awful, I find, because we are always drinking and heading to the next bar or the next and you’re no fun unless you go to all of the bars. If you ditch, you are literally called no fun and you can kiss your social life goodbye.

South Korean Culture is very much about group dynamics and it is social suicide not to hang out when asked unless you have a VERY good reason. This brings me to, “[t]he country's overall unemployment rate last year rose to its highest level in 17 years, at 3.8%. The youth unemployment rate was far higher, at 10.8% for those aged 15 to 29.” This is basically the fact of the matter, dating and socializing unless you are getting funded by your parents, is EXPENSIVE. Even when you are out of University and starting your first job, if you are even hired. If you aren’t, you will be working any form of shop job, construction, retail or food and service. 

Side note: minimum wage in South Korea is 7530 won/hr, or like 6-ish USD, but not a lot of places even pay that. They pay under that.

Yes, in the light of a lot of Korean scandals and lot of word of mouth about x boyfriend or y abuse incident, many people are put off by the idea of dating. But I feel like this is the case everywhere and not just South Korea. You could even say that it is taken less lightly elsewhere in the world than it is in South Korea.

You also have to realize that this article is literally just talking about Korean Women dating Korean Men. There are a plenty of other races that live in South Korea that are ex-pats, are studying abroad or are teaching abroad ( as they don’t really like hiring people of Asian Heritage to teach English, especially ). A lot of South Koreans hire a lot of foreign specialists for jobs due to the high specializations in some fields. So Korean Women might not be dating Korean Men, but they are still dating.

This is not a “not all men” statement because I will never make that statement. “Not all men” is such a stupid statement because it is inherently bias. 

Korean dating culture isn’t dead. People still date. People still count their relationships in days and have cute anniversaries. People are allowed not to feel safe. I don’t feel safe and I live in a country where I am allotted freedom and yet I still look over my shoulder because off the gender that I was born as. 

CHECK YOUR PRIVILEGE AT THE DOOR. 

Please don’t ignore the fact that you are generalizing a whole population to suit your own arguments and needs. You are literally doing yourself, and everyone you are generalizing, a disservice.

Honestly, no. Claiming you are right is actually a rather sad way to try and win an argument when someone hasn’t responded. My country isn’t “full of predators”. If anything all of my experiences in the United States ( and other countries though I will only give one example ) sort of tells me otherwise. I, personally, have a lot of stories of where I have felt unsafe in countries outside of Asia.

NEW YORK CITY ( tw: male public masturbation, aggression )

I was about nineteen at the time of this incident. I am, by no means, a person who is uneducated or idealistic in anyway. I was raised a realist, someone who wasn’t exactly sheltered from the storm, despite growing up in a traditional family. I made a lot of mistakes as a kid but I learned from.

In New York, I was with one other person. She was around my age and we were exploring the city together and I believe we were going to a conference at the time? I was studying Film at the time and she was a good friend of mine going to New York Film Academy. We hopped on the subway because literally the only way to get around the city unless you want to be stuck in traffic. What I experienced on the train was varying degrees of traumatic but I laugh about it now?

We were chased off the subway four or five stops before we actually wanted to get by a guy literally masturbating directly in view of us. There weren’t that many people on the subway car and he was making DIRECT eye contact with us while were talking about the film we were shooting for class. He was literally dirty talking at us and his advances became more bold until he literally chased us off the subway when we tried to leave.

He couldn’t have been more than I want to say thirty or forty and he was white male privilege. He was wearing a decently fitted suit with shined loafers so, clearly not just a homeless man on the street.

He chased us up to street leave with his dick out, ejaculating at our shoes as we tried to climb the stairs and told us we were ungrateful and deserved it. This happened on three separate occasions in a span of a week, different men.

I was much younger than most people that this happens to on a regular basis in the US. Tell me how “my country” as you call it is full of predators when this is what I was subjected to as a person that, at the time, is older than a solid chunk of the frequenters of this site.

Not only that but I have never felt the need to check my drink as much as I do in a western country as I do in an Asian one. I have been to frat parties and have been witness to college r*pe culture, to where I have been made witness to various friends being roofied because they don’t check their drinks. I was taught as a kid not to leave your drink lying around and if you did, you didn’t drink from it ( I should point out that I grew up both in Seoul and in Canada ).

I don’t feel safe in any country for the fact that I AM A WOMAN and not because of any racial bias that I might have. I don’t have the privilege of walking wherever I like without being cat called fully clothed, not showing any skin or figure. I constantly look over my shoulder when I see a shadow, this is not one country’s problem, it is every country.

Like I said, I was at work and would rather not get fired for interacting with someone that doesn’t take my priority because they wish to remain anonymous and not have educated argument. Rather you would like to anonymously bash a whole nation in which you are NOT apart of. Not that I particularly like my job, it kind of just pays the bills.

[fmddevin]

tongue-tied: daein’s relationship with language.

scenario: daein...speaks languages! and those languages....are important! word count: 1,469 notes: this is pretty random but pretty important to him as a muse?? and i have inspo & energy to write at the same time?? who would’ve thought!

daein’s relationship with language is...a complicated one, like most things in his life. but for a while, things were pretty simple. as a kid up until around middle school, he only spoke english. when he was younger, he was doing a pretty good job at learning korean, though. he wasn’t headed towards fluency, but paid attention when his parents tried to teach him words. so he had the basic phrases to survive down, but not much more.

flash forward to middle school, though. when kids began to become more ruthless and criticize him for cultural differences, everything changed. he stopped trying, and consequently, began to forget fragments of the language. since there really were no koreans around aside from his own parents, there was no one else to practice with, and once he stopped learning with them he was right back to square one.

but in middle school he also discovered a love for a new language he didn’t know he would ever be interested in. when he joined his first competition dance team, their competitions were based in miami (yes - he hated the four hour bus rides) so he spent a lot of time there. aside from competitions, daein’s parents encouraged him to join a lot of extracurriculars and such so he always had friends all over. a large portion of his friends from southern florida were hispanic, and naturally, since the drive was so far back home he’d often spend the night. being a minority surrounded by the majority anyways, he was aware of lingustic, food, and practice differences among different cultures. but actually being around a new one really opened up his realm for inclusivity.

being the whiny boy he was and still is, daein would sometimes feel excluded when his friends would be speaking spanish and he couldn’t understand a lick of what they were saying. so one day, he asked in the middle of their conversation if he could learn. they all laughed, thinking the boy was just on one of his whining fits again. but it was after the constant days and weeks of asking, of showing a true desire that they began to show him the ropes.

all their moms were ecstatic to teach him. young daein was some sort of mom magnet anyways, and all his friends would roll his eyes at how good of an impression he tried to make on them. but once he realized that he was interested in learning their native tongue, their eyes lit with excitement. one of his friends in particular had a teacher for a mom, so she would always put in the most effort. from little quizzes of vocabulary around the house to seeing how long he could go speaking in pure spanish, she really went the extra mile to help him learn. and it really paid off - he went from understanding a few words out their conversations to being able to interpret and respond in simple sentences within months. by the time the new year had started he added onto his studies by joining the available spanish course at his school, keeping him on his toes when he wasn’t around them. of course, it was weird to see for some - one of the only asian kids in school breaking out into a language totally unexpected of him. but in a way, it was the shock factor he enjoyed, feeling proud he could break the stigma. 

though in high school he was kicked off the team, he still hung with a few of his friends, and from time to time would travel back. he lost a few of his skills without the constant cycle of studying, but what he lost would be gained back after strenuous language studying following his departure from america. 

but see, the main reason daein wanted to learn spanish was that he associated it with collectiveness - he thought it would bring him and his friends closer, to take away the divide. this would transcend into his desire to learn his own culture’s language once he moved to korea. now, he felt as if language was a part of one’s identity, brought you closer to the people you speak it with.  and if anything, that was what he needed most in a foreign country where he looked like he belonged but couldn’t feel any more different. 

so for the first time in over a decade, daein had a genuine desire to learn korean. learning spanish at a rather old age had taught him the skills needed to pick up on a third quicker, so he used it to his advantage. in fact, korean was easier to learn because he had such a large pool to practice in at his fingertips at any given moment. when he first arrived in the country, it hadn’t been his first intention to become fluent. but as he got enveloped in a land he found himself falling in love with, he knew it was something he had to do. he started small, with language podcasts, kdramas, books - all the things most people who self-study to. he was also assigned a language tutor from the company, but his motivation to learn something always drops when he’s made to do it, so it wasn’t quite as effective. instead, he spent the majority of his energy on things he wanted to learn - the curse words (obviously), then the common phrases, then slang.

to him, learning korean was different. he hadn’t really sought it out, he just...became comfortable living in the language. it wasn’t until a year or so ago that he actually began to think in the language, but more than anything it comes in the form of konglish. it may have to do with the large number of americans he surrounds himself with or just a habit to revert to it, but english is the majority of what his brain consists of. it’s what he’s most comfortable in, but he has learned to expand his knowledge to the other two as well.

truthfully, he’s not on a native level yet, and it’s pretty obvious when speaking to him that it’s not his first language. it’s probably one of the things he’s most self-conscious about, especially since he’s quite the target for mcs to pick on when it comes to his mispronunciations or not understanding something said amidst the quick-paced conversations. honestly he reminds me a lot of mark tuan / woosung in this way because at the same time, his english is starting to deteriorate. this could be taken with a grain of salt, since he does still have english-speaking friends now. but it was a lot easier in the past when he still was very close with his friends back home, and he was in florida with his parents to talk to on a much more regular basis. now, he’s fallen off with a lot of his old friends, and his parents are so proud of his korean that they always try to revert to it when they facetime together. not to mention the entire basis of his career involves speaking the language, so he doesn’t really get a break from brushing up on his skills. so while he isn’t speaking solely korean, he’s a lot more dependent on it than he used to be and uses english far more. 

in terms of his spanish nowadays...phew, it’s kind of rough. he’s become a little less well-versed than he was in the past due to his change in lifestyle, but he honestly works the hardest to do well at spanish. he doesn’t really have to “practice” the others per se - even korean comes pretty naturally and is used every day now. spanish, however, requires the most self-motivation out of all of them. while he was slacking in the years following his debut. now things have calmed down a little and he’s had time to focus on more leisurely things. lullaby’s spanish version really reminded him to get back on track, and if you ask him he’ll brag about his pronounciation. so i think that while he probably was doing better prior to becoming an idol, he’s kept the same love and is working to retain his skills.

for daein, i think language has become a far more important thing than it had been. he’s learned to use it to identify, to connect, to thrive. each has it’s own perk, a little fragment of himself. english reminds him of his family, spanish of his friends, and korean of his fame. i think it’s a really big part of him since these all make up a lot of his character. will daein attempt to learn new languages in the future? who knows. but these have the most special place in his heart.

[mirios-eyes-are-beautiful]

aa So I just woke up to this?

I’m just.. speechless? I can’t believe this actually happened, so thank you all for the last few months, for every like, reblog and comment. It’s been such a pleasure to interact with you and scream about Mirio and The Big Three<3 I hope 2019 won’t bring us too many tears (spoiler: it will.) and we can all laugh about their shenanigans again (spoiler: we won’t.). This blog came alive with crazy good fanart, hilarious memes and sweet headcanons, sprinkled with my neverending affection towards Mirio, so kudos go out to the amazing artists and writers that create the content we love<3 Thank you for over 1k followers and I hope to see the family of mirihoes grow in the progressing year! I’ve received a lot of questions for my milestone special and I only picked out a few, but if you want more of these, let me know! Now let’s dive right into the Q&A!

Heey~ I’m a huge Bnha fan and I love this blog, keep up the great work!! \(^-^)/ I’d love to know how old you are, if that’s not too personal of a question?

Not at all! I’m actually 20 y/o and my Birthday is in June, also my zodiac is Gemini👭

What do you do for a living?

I’m a university student in my second year! I’m majoring in Linguistics and my minor is English Literature and Culture. Though before, I did a year of Environmental Sciences, but it just wasn’t my cup of tea so I quit🤷‍♀️ I’m also part timing at a boutique.

Hello! I check your blog everyday and I can’t with all your reactions, they’re almost always the same as mine:D Which state (USA) are you from and what languages do you speak?

Lol, do I really sound American?:D I’m actually from Germany, so German is my mother tongue! Other than that, I consider myself pretty fluent in English (your assumption of me being a native speaker flatters me so much, you have no idea) and I guess my French is decent. I can order food and ask for directions in Spanish (ayyyy) and studied Hindi for two semesters at Uni. Also I’m currently learning Japanese for my degree in Linguistics.

Do you have a favorite anime show? Other than My hero academia of course!

My all time favorite anime is definitely Arslan Senki! Besides that, I also love Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, Assassination Classroom, Durarara, Hunter x Hunter and pretty much every existing sports anime (Haikyuu, Kuroko no Basuke, Daiya no Ace, Free!, Yowapedal, Yuri on Ice, Prince of Tennis,.. although Haikyuu is my favorite) I enjoy most genres as long as the plot and characters appeal to me.

Do you read any manga? (also LOVE YOUR BLOG!!<3)

Yeah! I really love manga and I’ve read tons of shoujo when I was younger (I bingeread every night in middle school tbh) Nowadays though, not so much anymore.. It’s not that I came to hate it, I just don’t have as much time unfortunately-.-’ I do read the new Bnha and Haikyuu chapters on a weekly basis, but I can’t manage more than that. I also read yaoi/shounen-ai manga and doujinshi from time to time, but it’s not as much of an obsession as it was a few years ago. However, I own a couple of manga series (Bnha, Haikyuu, Arslan Senki), which I love to reread in my free time😊

hey, we share a love for mirio, so do you maybe have a few anime recommendations, or any good anime you’re watching now?

uhuhuhu birds of a feather flock together;))) Of course I can dish out some recommendations, but I’ll start with what I’m watching atm. I started rewatching Daiya no Ace not so long ago (due to the announcement of Season 4) so I sometimes watch a few episodes of that when I find the time. Also, and this is a recommendation as well, there’s this new track and field anime called Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru (Run with the Wind) coming out every Friday and it’s hilarious. If you like sports anime, you should definitely give it a go! The last anime I’m rewatching right now is Sukitte Ii na yo (Say I love you), cause I’ve been in a shoujo mood lately and after several years I still can’t deal with the cuteness of this show. Now for recs.. this is hard, since everyone has a different taste in series, but other than the shows I’ve named in the “Favorite anime” question, I’d recommend Wotakoi (Wotaku ga Koi no Muzukashii). It’s a very sweet anime about the love stories of otakus, so if you like a good laugh and lots of fluff, this show is for you (11eps). Same goes for Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun (12eps + 6 short specials). Shounen-wise I enjoyed for example Noragami, Bleach, Katekyo Hitman Reborn and Magi. Shoujo-wise I can always rewatch Toradora, Kimi ni Todoke and Itazura na Kiss. Sorry for rambling, there are just too many!😅

What pronouns do you use? And what’s you sexual orientation? If the latter question is too personal, just ignore it(/ω＼)

No worries! I use she/her pronouns and I’m pan, slightly favoring men. Probably due to the fact that I’ve only had hetero relationships so far. Though, I really don’t care about my partner’s gender🤷‍♀️

hi, i’ve been going through a rough time lately and your reblogs and memes never fail to make my day. how so you stay positive when things are going downhill? (sorry for the weird ask..)

Your question isn’t weird at all! I’m sorry to hear that you don’t feel well lately and I’m glad my posts are able to cheer you up a bit<3 I, for my part, am a very optimistic person and always try to concentrate on the positive things in my life, but I cannot deny that due to my personal problems I’ve spent many nights sleepless as well. Unfortunately, there’s no recipe for happiness, but here are some things you should always keep in mind should you feel down: Don’t surround yourself with toxic people. Don’t let them in your life and if they already are, either ignore them or cut them off. The latter won’t always work, since the world of adulthood is a cruel place, but try to develop a thick skin and don’t let them abuse the power over you that they don’t actually have. Try to talk with people. I can tell from experience that talking about your problems will almost always make you feel better, or at least lighter afterwards. Think positive. There’s never only black and white, so even if everything seems hopeless or bland, you should never cease to search for the good aspects. An example from me: Uni fucks me up real bad atm. I have six exams and one term paper to write this semester and I’m seriously afraid of failing. I’ve always had insane expectations of myself, because when I was a toddler, my parents found out that I was highly talented and that has been a as much of a curse as it is a blessing throughout my entire life. Whenever something gets too much for me and I end up in a slump, I think about how grateful I am to have so many wonderful friends. I think of all the things I plan to do with the money I earn, such as travelling, buying manga, movies, clothes,.. and even if that might not seem like a trivial matter for some people, I think of all the amazing anime coming out this year: Ice Adolescence, One Punch Man Season 2, Attack on Titan Season 3, Fruits Basket remake, Bnha Season 4, Haikyuu Season 4, Daiya no Ace Season 3.. Why am I naming these? Because they keep me going. They give me something to look forward to. They make me realize that I’m extremely grateful to be alive, because I get to experience these works. I get to discuss my favorite shows with people, who share my interests! I get to scream about Mirio’s bara arms with you guys! If that isn’t something to be cheerful about, I don’t know what is<3

And since I don’t want to end this on a solemn note, here’s a personal favorite of mine:

On a scale from 1-10, how much do you love Mirio?^^

1.000.000 (A million, you get it? wink wonk) Thanks for sticking around! Hope this gave you a little insight on who I am and I’d love to spend 2019 with you as well<3