#still struggle with not sticking to 'well we need all the allies we can get'

[emmafrostyyy]

y'all sleeping on Astarion/Lae'zel bc this moment is so...the way the flippant demeanor drops and he doesn't hesitate to call her out for sticking with her version of Cazador like their relationship is so underrated fr...

sitting down writing this bullshit like let me peel it like an onion a bit and elaborate why this pairing is fascinating to me

It's really interesting how during the most cathartic, life-altering moment in Astarion's questline, the reactions of the other companions are more about the moral wrongness/guilt of sacrificing innocent lives. Lae'zel doesn't do that and instead relates to his hurt.

She knows what's he's feeling, the lack of control, the unfairness of being powerless for too long. This is a woman who just found out her entire life purpose was built on lies, discarded and hunted by her own people after outliving her usefulness, and groomed to basically die for an insane power-hungry lich queen. She knows all too well that power isn't always real freedom. Her first instinct is to empathize with Astarion to steer him away from his hate and resentment.

Astarion/Lae'zel is so interesting to me because they're such a classic "can we make each other worse or make a better person out of the other?".

They both have genuine appreciation for violence and respect each other's ruthlessness. Astarion was used as a weapon of seduction while Lae'zel was of warfare. Sex with people is meaningless and not real intimacy for them, and while both have little understanding/experience of interpersonal relationships beyond the physical, they still feel and love very deeply. They have no frame of reference for things like friendship and warmth, but they badly want all of that and more, even if they don't know it yet.

In-game they can sleep with each other, which is basically the foundation of the normal Tav/Astarion romance. Lae'zel saw him during combat and got horny, who knows. Astarion who's used to luring people with his charms, takes up Lae'zel's blunt offer because she's a strong hardened warrior that can provide protection and be a worthy ally, and he doesn't know how to say no. Navigating the complications between one who wants to be seen beyond as a sex object, and one who comes from a totally alien culture with no concept of love/family/connections and only sex is honestly really compelling to me. It's a transactional, mutually beneficial thing with no emotional expectations. Once you get past the skeevy rockiness of their early relationship, I really like the idea of them slowly seeing something past the exterior and realizing they may have harshly misjudged the other, an unspoken friendship blooms, and in comes the realization that they are essentially loners longing for kindness and a comforting touch in the most desperate of situations.

Lae'zel is prideful, direct, has no sense of courtship talk, and doesn't hold back her thoughts the slightest--she's not sweet/agreeable and what you see is really what you get, which I imagine would be disarming for Astarion who's used to vacuous flattery and has difficulty trusting others. But she's also insanely protective, passionate, loyal, and an initiator-- every romance scene is triggered by her first and she's always showing effort towards her relationships, which would mesh well with Astarion who does need someone to nudge him.

She doesn't purposely suppress her feelings, she's just simply at loss at how to express them sometimes due to her wildly different upbringing. She stops the sparring match you agree to and an easy vulnerability slips instantly out of her: "I don't want to hurt you. I want to protect you, and for you to protect me." and "Thus far I've taunted you, devoured you, battled you. Now I want more than anything to soothe you." are romantic as fuck and Astarion of all people really needs to hear that tbh.

Astarion is also someone who struggles with reinforcing his boundaries, and a key theme in Lae'zel's romance is that she encourages and wants you to challenge her and learn to stand your ground. It's not gentlest method, but hey, relationships are about having to make an effort to learn each other's language.

I think he also would take pleasure "educating her on the matters of Fay-run" (I believe there's a whole banter with him teasing her and teaching her pet names) and would get a kick out of coaxing Lae'zel out of her shell with her shyness at showing public affection, and making her blush. Also it simply would be fucking funny to see Astarion who's used to easy seduction, trying to pass a persuasion check just to get a smooch and generally having to work to earn regular kisses from Lae'zel lmfaooo

Lae'zel also initially struggles to see her chains as chains. When she learns about Vlaakith's betrayal, she copes instantly through denial and shuts it down. Astarion is NOT having it and calls her out, he knows her well enough to recognize that she would value blunt honesty above all.

I imagine he also despises her lack of self-preservation, the way her entire identity is tied to duty and being in service of others, and doesn't understand her desire to still help/liberate the people that want her dead and are hunting her down. He wants to make this duty-bound soldier realize that looking out for herself, and putting herself first may not be the worst thing in the world.

They're so similar to each other but are also polar opposites in some ways that make a more equal, balanced romance I think. It's not a simple, one-sided, feel-good "she/he can fix her/him" fantasy because both of them have to earn each other's love, actually cut through the other's flaws, and actively motivate each other to be better versions of themselves.

They're not at all the other's ideal guiding hand. It's rough, jagged, and imperfect, but that's how healing goes. It's so far from being the healthiest relationship -- but even if their belief systems differ, their moral compass does often align. I imagine it's a slight relief for them to have a partner where there would be less shame and judgment when they expectedly, occasionally slip up and fall into their bad habits.

Also, man, the "You showed me the betweens and beyonds. Beyond war and peace, beyond passion and obsession, most importantly, you showed me freedom.", "First you were my wound, now you were my cure.", "But you saw something else in me - someone else I could be. Someone who could break the cycle of power and terror that started centuries ago.." lines really hit hard when applied to them.

Of course, they can also make each other worse, feed into the other's negative traits that will bring out the worst part of themselves. It's this duality of their pairing that is very interesting to explore, the way it can steer in either direction because it's an intense, fraught relationship at its core.

[hestzhyen]

Kagurabachi Chapter 42 Nonsense Takes-

Holy shit. Dear internet void, I'm on the edge of my seat. This CHAPTER man! Several key moments from Ch. 20 are paying off here in a satisfying way.

This time, Hiyuki is the one who wavers when her convictions are contested:

Caught between duty, desire, and her own limitations... not a great feeling is it? She's in the same position now that Chihiro was facing off against her in Ch. 20. I feel like Chihiro's heroics will push her forward much like Hakuri's words did for him. Can't wait to see more of her after this arc and how she reconciles her noble beliefs with the selfish pragmatism of the Kamunabi. Not to mention how she'll manage her pride while reconsidering her rather dismal evaluation of Chihiro from earlier in the chapter.

Speaking of the Kamunabi, though... the older guys who have experienced the horrors of the Seitei war try to be realistic about the situation:

[Shaking Shiba like a maraca] WHAT'S YOUR BACKSTORY MR. OFFSCREEN SORCERER?

They very understandably want to cut their losses and reduce the risk of death for their younger allies. With terrifying artifacts like Magatsumi being necessary, the Seitei War really must have been hell on earth. Better to save what you can than risk losing everything on a bet and all that. I think this will be the meaty, scrumptious crux of the conflict between Chihiro and the Kamunabi whenever he ends up clashing with them in the open. All for the greater good vs. the greatest good for all, pragmatism vs. idealism- I am hype!

And yet the idealistic duo of Chihiro and Hakuri are going to stake their lives on making a miracle. Across the hall, without being able to speak to each other or hear what's being said over the chaos, they still understand what the other is thinking and wants to do. I love these two so much.

Hakuri recalling the conversation with Chihiro during the elevator ride in Ch. 20 when they first met. He knows his samurai's heart.

(Ch. 20 vs 42) Liar, liar, pants on fire. Fakest IDGAFer ever ready to risk his life to save a bunch of strangers, just like he said he wasn't interested in doing.

These. Guys! ARE! THE! BEST!

But there's certainly going to be a price paid for this- the toothpick bidding guy said as much. Chihiro can't win it all, no matter how strongly he feels about having his cake and eating it too. So what's going to get fucked up? Well, pick your poison(s) on how Chihiro's idealism will be tempered:

Chihiro and Hakuri fail to save all the hostages

Hakuri overexerts himself and is incapacitated/dies

The Rakuzaichi isn't ended for good

Magatsumi falls into the wrong hands

Chihiro/Hakuri is/are captured by an enemy

Failure to Save Innocents This scenario is somewhat likely, I think. We're doing Ch. 20 callbacks so may as well go all-in here. It's also been the biggest sticking point this chapter. "We (YOU) can't save everyone." Be pragmatic when weighing good actions vs. the cost of doing them. Understand your limits, work hard, and be ready to cut your losses. Be willing to accept that someone could die. Chihiro struggles with this for obvious reasons. He's a heroic badass, but also a traumatized kid. A human. He's got limits and he's got to acknowledge them at some point. Even if Ms. Inazuma is saved, he might not be able to tag all the captives before Hakuri has to pull him out. This would be absolutely devastating to him as a brutal but very needed wake-up call before he overestimates himself in a situation with higher stakes. And, man... if Chihiro has to come back to Mr. Inazuma and tell the poor kid that he couldn't save his sister... god, that would be awful for everyone. Idealism alone can't save lives, nor wishing for it, nor trying your best. Sometimes you can't save everyone and end up losing everything. I think this is a bit too downer but it's not completely out of the question.

Hakuri Fucking Dies One of the two outcomes here is almost definitely going to happen. I went on a few several thousand-word screeds about Hakuri's significance and how much I love this slightly insane little goober. There's plenty of good reasons to think he'll stay a permanent member of the cast, and if I'm being honest, I think it's a little early for Chihiro to lose an ally. We need a little more time to get attached and invested in the core crew he assembles before one of them is offed. And yet... While I think Shiba's "you'll both die!" line is just to amp up the tension, this...

I will kill everyone at the Rakuzaichi and then myself if anything happens to this kid.

... isn't looking good. At all. Knowing that Hakuri's basically had a full arc at this point means I can't just handwave away the chance he'll be the price Chihiro pays for his naive optimism. Because that's exactly why they're both doing this: Chihiro's expectations for himself are too high and unrealistic. And he's Hakuri's guiding light. Whatever Chihiro wants to accomplish, Hakuri will back him up with everything he has. He's pushing himself too far for Chihiro's sake and we'll all cry if that means he pays the ultimate price.

I think it's most likely that Hakuri will come out of this severely injured, though. Not dead, but close to it and unable to act for a while. It would teach the same lesson without breaking my heart so please, please let this be the variant chosen if Hakuri must be offered up. Protect his smile and give him the chance to learn that he deserves to be loved as he is.

The Rakuzaichi Yet Proceeds So this one would be interesting as hell IMO. There's a case for this due to the fact that, despite reappearing on the stage in the real world, neither Chihiro nor Hiyuki actually touch it. Only Kyoura does.

God I love the perspective shots

A big point was made in Ch. 33 about how inviolable this wooden platform is:

Lotta prestige tied to keeping people off a glorified wooden pallet, but hey what do I know. I'm not a human trafficker or abusive parent brainwashed into serving a merchant cult family.

So even when the whole thing seems poised to come crashing down, Kyoura alone remains worthy to stand on it. And if we don't see any non-Sazanami clan members step on it by the end of the arc, I think that's a signal that things aren't quite done with them yet. Or at the very least, their legacy will live on untarnished despite the head of the family falling in combat. They could become legends in the underworld for maintaining the sanctity of the Rakuzaichi until the very end. Not very wholesome for Team Goldfish, but hey, it's a comparatively small price to pay. I've got a lot of thoughts about what various scenarios would mean, but I'll wait until we actually see what happens before speculating too much. I will, however, do some Hakuri agendaposting while I'm here though!

I would find it incredibly tasty if Hakuri managed to stand on the stage at the very end somehow. Just for one last hearty "fuck you" to his sperm donor, you know? And to satisfy the part of my monkey brain that loves total vindication. The "worthless" kid who was instrumental in bringing down his family standing in the sacred zone he was supposed to protect, but was deemed unworthy of... that he rejects wholeheartedly while being the first since the progenitor to inherit both signature sorceries... yesssss. Especially considering this:

RIP Tenri, gone too soon

I go feral for stuff like this. Hakuri is the Special Boy. He deserves the moment, if he can figure out a way to get there before he collapses after helping Chihiro.

Magatsumi Goes MIA Once More I think this is the most likely price to be paid. Chihiro's heroics will cause him to miss out on recovering the Super Evil Sword, which could end up just about anywhere at this point. Recovered by the Kamunabi, the Hishaku clan swooping in to take it, the wielder using Kyoura's body to abscond with it to parts unknown... anything's possible! But probably not Team Goldfish escaping into the night with it. Saving people at the cost of missing his big chance to recover his father's "masterpiece" seems like an appropriate setback for Chihiro right now. It'll throw his plans into disarray and really force him to look at his priorities and strategies thus far. Team Goldfish are mighty but they can't take on two massive orgs like the Kamunabi and Sazanamis at once, especially if the Hishaku are meddling. He'll get his reality check and prepare to make hard choices in the future. Save everyone, every time, and chase the blades forever? Or entertain a slightly less idealistic mindset to better the chances of success? Very tantalizing potential here, yes yes. It also ties in nicely with the main talking point of this chapter- much better than losing an ally would, at any rate.

Capturiffic Times I think this is the least likely given the circumstances, but may as well mention it just in case. Both Chihiro and Hakuri are worn down to their last dregs and aren't in a position to fend off anyone that could come at them. Maybe Hiyuki decides to capture Chihiro to take him to the Kamunabi instead of killing him, while Shiba retreats with Hakuri? Or Hakuri is captured by the Kamunabi/remaining Sazanamis while Shiba prioritizes escaping with Chihiro? Shiba gives himself up to let Chihiro and Hakuri run? Again, seriously doubt this scenario. They might not get out in one piece or with everything they hoped for, but I'm pretty sure that Team Goldfish will be able to flee to fight another day.

Anyway. Yapped too much again. Thank you void for letting me ramble into your uncaring ear once more. See you next week, probably.

[flip-flopping-frede]

I want to see more arospec people with personality disorders

I want to see more arospec people who fit into the stereotypes. The negative stereotypes. The villian stereotypes. I want to see more arospecs disgusted by the obsession with love and instead value other things. Like integrity. Honestly. Loyalty. Being reliable, someone you can depend on—trustworthy. Sticking to a goal and not letting anyone else get in the way. Doing stupid things, but not in the name of love or romantic attraction, but rather because of boredom and self-serving purposes. Enjoying spending time with someone and understanding that your connection is “special,” but in an fp way.

Love is not enough. Romantic attraction is not everything.

I want to see more aplatonic spectrum people. I want to see aplspec people who don’t make friendships or their relationships everything. I want to see aplspec people who would not die for their friends and other people who are possibly significant to them. I want to see aplspec people focusing on themselves and working towards their own healing, to live a life worth living that is not dependent on, nor defined by other people.

Where are the aspec people with personality disorders.

All the time I see the acommunity go “you are not alone”. Well, I mean it really feels like I am. I know no aspecs in real life, I haven’t really been able to keep any aspec friends that I have met online, and it really just seems like I am genuinely alone. The acommunity is struggling with so much internalized aphobia and a devasting lack of support from non-existent allies. It feels scary and I feel very much alone attempting to openly discuss my intersectionality between my personality disorder and my aspec identity. I feel like I want to be less alone in the acommunity as an aspec with a personality disorder, but I can’t do that by myself. I need the acommunity to make room for the voices of people with intersectionality between multiple marginalized identities, and I need the acommunity to also amplify the voices of people with personality disorders to let us know we are valued here.

Some aspecs are cold. Some aspecs struggle to care about other people. Some aspecs are cold hearted. Some aspecs became aspec due to trauma. Some aspecs may have turned out differently if they grew up in a different environment. And you know what, we are still valid. Being traumatized or having a personality disorder *does not* make our aspec identity any less valid. It sucks that more aspecs (who are already significantly marginalized, forgotten, and invalidated) struggle to accept that.

[flower-blossoms654]

Me, when people dehumanize all southerners and southern adjacent people. Me, when people decide that all people in one area must be bad although there are always minorities and allies in those areas as well. Me, when people think everyone in a red state thinks a certain way even though we know for a fact that gerrymandering has altered districts and how they appear to have voted. Me, when even if this wasn’t true, people still think that everyone there should DIE.

There are so many things that factor into why someone hasn’t evacuated. Let’s fucking stop calling people stupid and that they “deserve it” if they stay behind.

This country has poor fucking public transportation. We rely on cars to get EVERYWHERE. This means that when an evacuation is called, everyone is on the road. EVERYONE. It is a nightmare to get out and some people cannot do that long of a drive.

Money also plays a big part in this. Do you have a car? Can you afford gas? A hotel for however long you need to stay before the hurricane + during the hurricane + after? The gas for the return trip? If not driving then can you afford a plane ticket for there and back? Let’s not pretend the prices are not already ridiculous and we are not already struggling paycheck to paycheck. Add in the fact that hotels and plane tickets are increased to capitalize on people evacuating from the hurricane? That shits fucking expensive. (Not to mention there’s food and groceries you have to rebuy.)(And the difficulty to move people increases with the amount of people and if you have children or elderly or anyone disabled.)(I’m not even gonna go into pets, pet transportation, and the limitation of the hotels that allow pets or not when hotels will be fucking fully booked.)

Let’s also not forget that we have a fucking hurricane SEASON. We live in these parts for so long that we are used to a hurricane a year. That can lead to it being underestimated. If you take into account the amount of work, time, energy, and money that goes into evacuating, it’s easy to see why someone used to hurricanes would choose to stay home. Not to mention if we evacuated for every hurricane, it would be fucking impossible to survive that way. “Then why do you live there?” Not everyone has the money to move states. Many people have been in these parts for generations. Let’s move on.

There are college students away from home without family support that are too far to get that support and don’t have the money and resources to do anything but stay on campus. There are people who have taken forever to get a job and are still scheduled for work and can’t evacuate if they wanna keep that job. IT. IS. NOT. SIMPLE. IT. IS. NOT. STUPID. TO. STAY.

I will fight tooth and nail against anyone talking shit about the devastation in the Rocky Mountains. People making shit up about how they voted as if that means that they deserved to see entire towns wiped off the map. As if Appalachia doesn’t have a culture of sticking it to the man. Even if they didn’t, do they deserve to be standing on rooftops waiting for help to arrive while the government turns their head? They were in the mountains, so far inland where they’ve never seen a hurricane. Hurricanes feed off of warm water and that’s why they die when they get inland - why would they believe that they’d get hit by that shit? All the stuff above applies to them but WORSE. Evacuation on mountain roads? Where there are limited ways of getting in and out and you have to go up and down and this way and that and it takes fucking FOREVER? When they had little to no notice??? Come the fuck on. Some of their universities didn’t even close until the hurricane was right on them.

The government has failed EVERYONE. Please keep that in mind.

[bridgyrose]

“Long ago, the world was plunged into darkness and demons known as grimm nearly hunted humanity into extinction. Cities were snuffed out while huntsmen struggled to keep the grimm at bay. And when humanity had nearly been extinguished, Penny, the patron saint of humanity, appeared and pushed back the grimm. She found allies to help her, ones that she trusted and could help her with her goal. Until one of them became a demon of her own. A huntress with silver eyes betrayed her and attacked Penny, nearly killing her in the process. After a long battle, the silver eyed demon was thrown into an abyss.” Weiss sighed and closed the book she had held. “That’s all I could find about why you were hunted.” 

Ruby rolled her eyes and finished getting contacts in to hide the silver in her eyes. “That’s not how it went. Cinder killed her, not me.” 

“But that’s not how the story tells it,” Yang said as she put a hand on Ruby’s shoulder. “And if that’s how everyone here sees it, then we’ll have to live with it.” 

“I dont want to live with it! I want to find out why we’re here!” 

“And we will,” Blake said. “That said, the only way we can do that is if we get out there and really see what’s going on. And if you’re getting hunted any time you’re seen-” 

“I know I know, its either this or stay hidden until we can get something.” Ruby took another long look at herself in the mirror, almost not recognizing her own reflection as violet eyes stared back at her. “Still, I just wish we had something to go off of. Grimm arent a problem, and besides bandits, it doesnt seem like there’s a lot of problems. At least, nothing that we’d need to get involved with.” 

Weiss nodded and put the book back onto the desk. “I think our best bet is to start with the festival that’s being held today. Looks like they’re doing something in Penny’s honor.” 

Yang paused for a moment. “A festival?” 

“They call it the Festival of Life. From what I was reading about it, its their way of celebrating the disappearance of the grimm.” 

Ruby smiled and put her cloak on as she practically jumped up. “Then we might as well go. We can find out the kind of food they have now and learn more about the laws-” 

“And you cant have your cloak,” Blake said. “We can find another one for you. Maybe one less red.” 

Ruby sighed a bit as she took her cloak off and held it in front of her. “I cant just… not wear it. Its my signature look.” 

“Which is why you cant wear it. You’ll stick out.” 

Yang nodded. “And from what you told us, it wouldnt surprise me if there’s already wanted posters for you too.” 

Ruby slowly nodded and folded up her cloak to put away, her fingers lingering a bit as she held the fabric. It wasnt something she’d gone without ever since she made it, and going without it now felt… strange. “I… I guess you’re right. I’ll figure something out then.” 

“Dont worry, we wont be too long. Besides, I’m sure there’ll be something for us to get while we’re there.” 

“*If we can actually get anything,*” Ruby thought to herself as she started to make her way out to the festival with her team. Though, she did have to admit she was excited to see whatever this festival wouldnt entail. Especially if this one was about Penny. 

A soft smile crossed her lips as she thought about Penny. While she wasnt sure how Penny would think of a festival being about her, she was sure she’d still enjoy the idea of it. People of the kingdom coming together to celebrate the woman she loved centuries after she’d lived… it wasnt anything she had thought would’ve been possible. Humanity had been so divided in her lifetime, and now seeing everyone come together like this was almost like a dream come true. Even if it came with having to hide herself. 

Though, once Ruby and her team arrived at the festival grounds, she paused when she saw a statue of Penny towering over the stalls. The statue itself was still kept in almost pristine condition, every detail intricately carved, almost as if Ruby had been looking at Penny herself. The swords of her floating array were arranged in a half-circle behind her and nearly looked like the sun itself with the way they reflected the light around them. Even the paint looked like it had been touched up with care and respect. 

“Are you going to be okay?” Yang asked. 

Ruby flinched as she felt Yang put a hand on her shoulder, eyes still lost in the green of Penny’s. “I didnt think I’d see something like this for her. Its like she’s watching over everyone, still protecting humanity like she’d want to.” 

“And you’re sure you’ll be fine?” Ruby nodded, her heart still hurting as she looked away from the statue of Penny and wiped a tear away from her eye. “I promise, I’ll be fine. We wont find why we’re here just standing around.” 

“If you’re sure.” 

Ruby started to walk again through the festival grounds and past the stalls that lined the roads. She kept her head down, but took note of everything that was being sold. The smells of sweets filled the air from food stalls, there were outfits that looked similar to Penny’s being sold along with replicas of other important items from humanity’s past, and other trinkets that seemed more religious than anything else. Everything seemed normal for a festival, until she started to listen to the conversations the citizens were having. 

“Think She will join us this year?” one faunus asked another. “With Atlas starting to build their army again-” 

“You shouldnt listen to those rumors,” the other interrupted. “Besides, She’ll protect us if anything happens. Like she did before.” 

Another citizen scoffed. “I wouldnt expect her to protect us again. The last time she showed up was a hundred years ago just before the bandit uprising. If she’s not around now, then there’s nothing to worry about.” 

“I dont think she will show,” a girl wearing a cloak said. “She is just a legend right? Maybe she never existed.” 

Ruby paused when she heard the girl speak with Penny’s voice, her heart stopping as she caught a glimpse of the girl’s face in a reflection. Green eyes, red hair, a face that looked like Penny’s… it was enough for her to shake as she reached for the girl’s shoulder. Her voice shook as she spoke. “P-Penny?” 

The girl turned around and paused as she stared at Ruby. “I-I think you have the wrong person, I need to go!” 

“Wait!” Ruby reached out to catch the girl’s hood as she started to run off. She looked back towards her team, and saw they were busy with the stalls. Without another thought, she ran after the girl, using her semblance to make her way through the crowds of people. “Wait, stop! I just want to talk to you!” 

The girl turned to look at Ruby once more before disappearing into the crowd. Ruby stopped as she watched a green streak rush off ahead of her, unable to keep up. She let out a soft sigh and started to make her way back to her team, still certain she’d seen Penny.

Prev

[twoidiotwriters1]

Almighty (Leo Valdez xFem!Oc)

A/N: I would kill for this family -Danny Words: 2,176 Series' Masterlist Previous Chapter // Next Chapter Listen to: 'Lifeline' -by Joshua Bassett

VI: God Gave Us ADHD Because He Knew We'd Overthrow Him

"Dollface! You're back!" Leo comes down from the catwalk and straight to my arms, where I welcome him with a hug. He kisses my face effusively. "Come see the ship!"

"I doubt it's changed much since last—holy shit! Are those the ballista?"

Leo smirks proudly. "Tyson's top-tier work paid off. Take a closer look."

He gives me a tour of the almost-finished ship. I'm excited about sailing in this thing, but at the same time, it makes me nervous in a panic-attack kind of way. Leo rambles about the updates with a big smile, his hair sticking to his forehead and his face smeared with an unidentified dark stain. He notices my staring and a smug, crooked grin appears on his face. "Can't deal with how hot I am, sunshine?"

I kiss his cheek. "I'm so proud of you..."

Leo wraps an arm around my waist and pulls me closer. "Well, that's cool, because I'm mostly doing this for you, so you being proud of me it's all that matters."

"I thought you were doing this to save the world?" I tease him. "Since there is a big prophecy with your name on it and everything..."

"Well, that's a tiny part of it," Leo grins. "But it's mostly for you. The sooner I'm done with this, the sooner you can reunite with your brother, and I'll finally see you being all smiles and zero pouting."

It's scary, how he cares more about my feelings and interests than the overall goal of the trip, which is to ally with the Romans. I brush his curls back lovingly. "It's not your job to make sure I'm happy."

Leo rolls his eyes dramatically. "Doll, that is literally my main job. You're my girl, shut up and let me pamper you." He leans down and peppers my face with kisses, making me laugh.

"Fine, fine!" I exclaim. "I yield!"

He holds my face, planting an effusive kiss on my lips. His gaze softens as he scans my expression like he can't believe we're dating. "Whatever happens once we sail," he says, his tone sober enough to sound serious. "I feel so much better knowing you'll come with us."

I rub his arms affectionately. "You might get sick of me after a week," I warn him playfully.

"As if!" He rubs my cheeks with his thumbs, leaning down to brush his lips on mine. "I'm not going anywhere..."

"What happened on Olympus?" Annabeth asks. "I didn't get to hear about it."

"Oh, you didn't go either?"

"No, because you two love to see me struggle," Percy quibbles.

"And I had classes," Annabeth gives him a look.

"It wasn't too bad," he responds, trying to play it down. "I got Ganymede the chalice just in time. He gave me my letter." The girls wait to hear more, but Percy glances at them with a brief smile that they've learned means 'Let's talk later'.

"So..." Paul continues. "What does a godly recommendation letter look like?"

"I'll show you after dinner," her brother sighs. "Probably best if we don't get spaghetti sauce on it."

"And how was cheer practice, Birdy?" Annabeth grins.

"I'm popular now," Ara says like she can't believe it. "Especially with boys, but then I tell them my dad's our English teacher and they back up fast."

Paul smiles. "My work is done."

Ara lowers her voice and talks to her mother. "He thinks they're intimidated, but I think they don't want the guy with the crazy ties as father-in-law."

Sally chuckles. "Well, Leo will be grateful either way, hm?"

Ara can't help but think Leo would like nothing more than to make fun of those boys at lunch with her parents. She holds back a sigh and focuses on finishing her meal, not noticing Percy's knowing look.

"It's blank."

"Lovely paper, though," Paul scans the material carefully.

"If you got an essay on this paper," Percy questions, "would you just give it an A-plus without reading it?"

"I would probably write 'Nice try with the lovely paper, but you still need to provide examples that prove your thesis.'" Paul grins.

"Well, there goes that idea," her brother mutters grumpily.

"Is it written in some sort of invisible ink?" Sally picks it up to examine it.

"I have to do it myself. Ganymede said I can put whatever I can come up with and in the end his signature will appear."

Paul hesitates. "That seems a bit..." 

"Too trusting?" Annabeth offers.

"I was going to say lazy on Ganymede's part. Though I hope that doesn't get me zapped with a lightning bolt."

"Nah. The gods would take that as a compliment. They raise lazy to an art form," Percy says nonchalantly.

"Nice work if you can get it," Paul hums.

"How does it know when to start writing?" Sally places the paper down.

"Dunno. Maybe I just say 'Dear Admissions Office—" He yelps when the words appear on the paper. "Well, crap—No! Delete!" Ara laughs. "This isn't funny," Percy scowls at her and Annabeth. "Delete, delete. I didn't know it would start. Delete, delete."

"That is amazing paper," Sally says in awe. "What's it made out of?"

"Maybe we should help Percy get it written now," Paul suggests kindly, "so he doesn't have to worry about it."

"Spoken like a true English teacher," Annabeth hums. "It can't be that hard, right? How about, 'I highly recommend Percy Jackson for New Rome University. He is adorable and has nice eyes.'"

"I am not saying that. Delete, delete," he huffs, but the first line stays.

"'And his mother is very proud of him,'" Sally continues humorously, "'though college would be a wonderful experience, as it might teach him to do his own laundry.'"

"'Make sure he sleeps in a dorm with cement walls'," Ara adds tauntingly. "'He has a tendency to slam skateboards against them and wake his sister up from her afternoon nap'."

"You're all terrible people," Percy groans. "Delete, delete."

Paul is the only one who is a bit helpful. "'I, Ganymede, cupbearer to the gods, have found Percy Jackson to be an excellent hero—brave, kind, and fantastic at chopping vegetables.'"

Ara laughs louder. Percy's family continues to tease him, only adding a few useful sentences here and there, until her brother's face is flushed, and the girls have both fallen from their seats laughing too hard.

"Let's see how the letter came out..." Sally says, reading the whole thing to the group.

"How do you get his signature to appear, though?" Annabeth stands up with Ara's help.

 "'Thank you for your time. Yours sincerely, Ganymede.'" Percy concludes. "You think it's done?" He waits to see if the letter keeps writing things, but it doesn't happen. "Thank gods."

"You have to get two more recommendation letters?" Their mother smiles. "Sounds like fun!"

"Yeah, and if those are do-it-yourself letters, too, I think I'll do them by myself."

"But you're never alone, Seaweed Brain." Annabeth kisses his cheek. "We'll always be here to help you."

"Yeah, Nemo, don't be such a buzzkill," Ara smirks.

"To Percy!" Paul toasts. "Our eldest family hero!"

Percy enters the room and plops down on her bed. The girl pulls her Spanish book from under his butt and lightly hits his hip. "What happened in Olympus?"

Percy takes a moment before replying. "Ganymede... is he always treated like that?"

Ara knows what he means, she's seen it in every solstice. "Not a nice view, right? The way Thunder Boy treats him, like an accessory of sorts—To think he was kidnapped!" Ara shakes her head. "Things like that make it hard for me to love my job."

Percy sits up. "You meant what you said, when Gary threatened to hide the chalice forever?"

"A little bit. It would help me sleep at night, knowing I won't ever take orders from new gods thirty years from now." Ara frowns. "And also knowing that I could never be turned into an immortal. A daughter of Olympus is as high as I'll be climbing."

She sits down facing Percy. He turns to close the door before matching her posture, this conversation is about to get real. "Here is what I don't get," Percy scratches above his eyebrow. "You keep saying you weren't expecting things to turn out like this. What were you expecting, then?"

Ara shrugs. "Two, perhaps three blessings throughout my life, and go down in history as the first daughter of Olympus."

"But your fatal flaw—"

"Ambition, yes. But not that way," Percy tends to freak out about everything when it comes to her, but she thinks it's time they have it out. "When you went missing, my title started to matter to others outside myself, and that's when..." The girl fidgets with the hair tie Leo made for her, and Percy watches her intently. "I wanted to be someone who meant safety and unity, but the day I spoke to Heracles... he said children of Olympus are killers."

"That's not—"

"He's right," she admits. "I helped Frank kill those creatures in Venice, and I didn't hesitate to kick that son of Poseidon off a cliff when he threatened to take our stuff... gods, I smashed a giant's skull over and over until he died—with a freaking club! And that's not the worst part, I..." her voice quivers. "I killed Octavian."

"What are you talking about?" Percy frowns. "Nico said it was his own fault, that the jewelry he was wearing got pulled and—"

"No," she shakes her head, too ashamed to meet his eyes. "That happened, yes, but I stuck his cloak inside the mechanism. I made sure it would take his life if he decided to use it."

"Gods, Ara," Percy stares at her like he can't quite recognize her. "But Nico said you tried to negotiate..."

"I asked him to back down, I warned him... that doesn't mean I wanted him to listen. We both know I could've used charmspeak," she laughs bitterly. "And I'm not even sorry."

He rubs the back of his neck, taking a moment to gather his thoughts. "When people ask me about you, I have this mental image of you as our little Birdy. That chatty kiddo you used to be, loud and clumsy. I don't think of you as serious and broody even though that's the way you are most days now... Can't help but feel like I pushed you to prove your worth like this. I'm sorry."

"Don't be," her voice quivers. "I'm the one who should say sorry, and that's just the thing, that's where my fatal flaw comes in. I'm incapable of feeling sorry for getting the things I want, even when I know it's damaging others... and myself. But I owe you everything, Percy. The adventures, my home... my name! I'm difficult and argumentative, I like proving you wrong, and I have little regard for your concerns... I'll never be what you want, and I'm sorry."

Percy's gaze softens. "I knew who you were since day one, Ara. You had just exploded a washing machine when we first met, remember?" He lets out a small, boyish laughter. "There were no expectations when we adopted you. Just a lot of love to give. You're one in a million. No matter what I ask of you, the answer is always yes. You're a giver, and my mom and I just had this impulse to protect you so the world wouldn't run you dry. I'm sorry if that sounds condescending..."

"No. The fates handed me to you because I needed you, that much is clear," Ara sniffs. "I wanted to meet my father, to be loved by him—I thought he would grow to like me... but when I met you and you welcomed me in, it was as easy as breathing. I couldn't wrap my head around it, but you guys have done everything to make me believe it. And I feel so unworthy of it, but Hestia forgive me, I'm so glad you stuck around."

She hugs her brother fiercely, and Percy wraps his arms around her, rubbing her back with soothing, although trembling hands. He's too affected to speak.

"Eros said love was hard work," she buries her face on his shoulder. "I thought that meant it hurt, but hard work can be satisfying, like callouses from climbing the lava wall, it makes me feel alive and capable..."

Percy's voice comes out a little shaky when he responds. "Every time you think about how things don't go as planned, remember that. Don't let the doubt in. You have us, and we love you. Leo will come back, and he'll tell you the same."

"I know," she cries softly. "Olympus is my responsibility, but you guys... you're home. I'm sorry I doubted it."

"S'alright," he eases her, still rubbing her back in gentle circles. "The gods kept you busy and away because they know we're dangerous together."

She laughs weakly. "We're their boogeyman—'Now kids, don't make me call the Jacksons!', Maybe I should bring you along to all of my quests."

"You can always count on me, Birdy. No matter what, I'll always be your brother. Just make sure you help a poor guy out by reviewing his Algebra homework."

Ara sniffs and giggles, moving away to clean her nose. "Deal."

"And one more thing," he holds her by the shoulders. "I know you love him, but I'm totally punching Leo once I see him for making you worry."

"Just avoid the face, please."

Next Chapter –>

Taglist.

@siriuslysirius1107 @ask-giggles1303 @im-planning-something-look @bandshirts-andbooks @coolninjapaper @thewaterlily @whenisthefall @1randomcomic @you-bloody-shank @sunflowergraves @owlalex44 @taylordaughter @typicalsolangelolover @writingmia @espressopatronum454 @slytherinnqueen @orbitingpolaris @obxstiles @ellipsisspelled @thepixiechicksh @ebony-reine-vibes

[loonatic-moon]

Akikiryu anon from before. It's a shame that you don't get feedback much on them! Again, they're amazing! I guess we really are a rare breed given how little I see Akikiryu anything out there. Hell, I feel like there's a criminal lack of Akiyama focused fics period! but I digress.

PLEASE RGG! Let our boy do this. It's SUCH a perfect premise for him. I've seen people say that an Akiyama focused Gaiden wouldn't work bc "what do you do with him? "They were already struggling to find reasons for him to be around in 5" It's this!

And Akiyama meeting Ichiban? That'd also be great. I've always felt that out of all the pre-7 characters, Akiyama fits the whole "team combat" thing the best. He's always teaming up with someone else. I think the only protagonist he hasn't teamed up with directly is Saejima iirc. He's even teamed up with Majima in Dead Souls! He's even Ichiban's ally in RGG Online! Kinda crazy they haven't met in mainline canon. He just translates so naturally into it, even if the other games have shown us that he can easily hold his own and doesn't necessarily need allies.

Anyways, thank you for taking the time to read and answer all this and the last ask! I know they're kinda long. <3

No you’re right and you should say it— it’s comparatively slim pickings in general for Akiyama fans. His absence in Y7 didn’t help, as I think there is also something to be said for when (in terms of game releases) he is introduced, and what game is your entry point into the series. I sorta hoped Ishin might spur some more fics, but alas…

I was crazy enough to start with Y5, so that was my Akiyama intro. While in hindsight I see what people mean about Akiyama being a bit tacked on, his appearance coincided with where the game’s plot imo REALLY picked up in a good way. I didn’t know shit about him at the time but got 100% hooked on his bisexual uncle-dad “who the hell is this guy?” energy. lmao

Which is to say YEAH, I think there’s plenty to where he could absolutely could carry his own game! When I played the Judgment games, I thought back to Y5 and - purely speculative tbf - wondered if Akiyama wasn’t something of a prototype for Yagami’s character. I think sleuthing, being wicked smaht, and sticking his nose into trouble really fits Akiyama well, too and could be a proven basis to work with.

And for him to NOT have a role in exposing the Daidoji just seems like…a big obvious miss to me. Still, I think I’m at the point now though where I’ll take any new Akiyama content I can get. Also new Hana content. Did she ever come back from countryside oblivion?? Tell us, RGG…

No worries about being lengthy, I love your thoughts on all of this! It’s refreshing to know there are fans having some like-minded thoughts on the possibilities out here. And if RGG doesn’t deliver on some of this then, well…I’ll guess I’ll fire up my keyboard again!

[sachiko6243]

The good old Doc - Part 13

Missed the start? No problem, here is the first part, the following ones are always linked at the end, so you dont have to search endlessly. 😉

Summary: Lieutenant Lilith Adams enlisted back in the military, only to be met with a certain cocky pilot. Overcoming certain past traumas, she tries to fit in with the team of pilots as their personal medic. Soon finding her stuck between a certain good looking aviator and her work morals.

This is a series which is currently in the making, so I don’t exactly know how long it is going to be. 😊

Word count: 2567

Warnings: generally none (maybe some for the girls talk)

I was struggling to get out of my wet dress, fighting the wet fabric sticking to my body. When I was finally able to get it over my head I wrung out as much water as I could, throwing it over the sunshade. Whistling behind me had me turn around. Rooster was eying me up and down, but the whistling stopped as soon as he saw my upper body being littered with hickeys. “Holy…” I wasn’t really sure what to say, so I stayed silent, looking down on the ground. Luckily Phoenix had my back: “Stop it Bradshaw. That’s none of your business.”

Bradley raised his hands slowly stepping back. “Didn’t mean to pry. But I am in for some details.” He grinned wiggling his eyebrows. Nat just shook her head. “Nah uh. That’s for girls talk only. And as far as I am aware you’re not a girl.” Her comment made me smile and I settled down on my towel between her and Bob. We watched in silence how Rooster backed off, towards the makeshift volleyball field. Him and Jake teamed up against Payback and Coyote.

“Soooo…” Phoenix turned towards me, smiling a knowing grin. “Is there something you wanna tell me?” Before I could even speak, Bob leaned in from the side: “You know I can just go and leave you to your girls talk.”

“Stay, Bobby. You are literally married and therefore an approved ally of the girls club.” Nat said, pulling him down on his towel. I laid back, staring up at the parasol. “It was good.” Was all I muttered, and from the huff coming from Phoenix I could hear she was not pleased with my answer. “Good. That’s as detailed as one can be. I wanna know everything. Like start to finish.”

I groaned at her words. “I really don’t know if that’s a good idea. I mean you guys work together and I don’t wanna spike any rumors or teasing or whatever.”

“Honey, that train is long gone with you showing up like that.” Phoenix intervened. “And don’t fear Bob. He is our team’s secret keeper and trust me, when I say he isn’t as innocent as he looks.”

“Tasha!” Bob let out a high pitched yelp, pushing up his glasses. She just shrugged. “What? I aint lying.” “Yeah, but there is no reason to be that blunt.” Bob argued. I let out a silent laugh. “Well, I can imagine, what our good boy is into.”

“You know?” Phoenix sat up eyeing me curiously. I shook my head. “Not much. Just the first night in the hard deck, I was kinda pretending to flirt with Bob to see how Jake would react and I got him all flustered, when I called him a good boy.”

That statement hat Phoenix cackling uncontrollably. “What I would have paid to see that happen… Little Bobby boy being all red and flustered.” She laid down next to me propping herself up on her elbows watching me intently. “Anyway. Back to you. You guys got home and then?”

“You know what happened next.” I sidestepped her question, pretending to focus on the ongoing volleyball game in front of me.

“No shit sherlock. But how was it? More important how was HE?” Phoenix inquired, clearly not letting me off the hook that easily. “I bet that man knows what he is doing, but still. Did he pull a scripted one or did he really engage with your needs and all?”

“I wont get rid off you until you are satisfied right?” I sighted, closing my eyes. This time it was Bob who chuckled at my embarrassment. “Nope. She will question and torture you until she gets what she wants.”

I took a deep breath. Internally contemplating my life choices that got me into this situation. “Fine. I will talk, but I swear to god, if only one bit of information leaves this private conversation, I will have both of your asses shot down from the sky.” I threatened.

“Yeah, yeah. We will not tell a soul.” Phoenix pressured, jittery from the anticipation of news.

“Jake was really nice. He didn’t pressure me or made me feel anxious. Rather the opposite. I had a stress melt down and he immediately backed off, trying to help me and not push me any further.”

“You had another panic attack?” Bob asked, now sitting up as well. I shook my head. “No… Not a real panic attack. I was reminded of something that happened to me in Afghanistan. Jake didn’t do anything. It just happened and I freaked, thinking he would push me away.” I answered, looking away. “You have to know that I was badly injured when I was rescued. The day the seals freed us, was a very bad day for me. Kardaar, that was the man that mostly tortured me, had planned out a very destructive torture plan for me that day. He was always very… I like to say turned on by it. So, this day he nearly beat me to death and whenever I was slipping out of consciousness, he would electrocute me. The alternation between getting the shit beaten out off you and your intestines nearly being fried, my body broke down. I had such bad internal bleeding, that I passed out halfway out of the cave system where we were being held. In camp, the doctors had to do an emergency hysterectomy, therefore leaving me infertile…” I stopped my story, swallowing down the lump that build up in the back of my throat.

“Oh my god…” Phoenix slapped her hand over her mouth and Bob looked like he was torn between throwing up and punching something.

“Yeah… So, when Jake asked what kind of protection I wanted to use, I kinda freaked out…” A thin smile plastered itself over my lips, remembering how supportive and caring he got in that moment. Phoenix was the first to speak again: “And how did he react?” “He got all caring and kind, comforting me and telling me that he doesn’t care about it. I swear, that man had me crying like I haven’t cried in a very long time with how sweet he was.” I answered.

Phoenix turned her gaze towards the rest of the team, watching Jake intently. “Hangman being sweet. Something I never thought I would hear someone say.” She mumbled. I laughed, poking her in the side. “You should change your way of looking at him. I mean yes, he has this hard, cocky, arrogant shell structured around him, but underneath he is as sweet as one can be. I feel safe and seen with him. Something I haven’t had at that depth with any man I have ever been with.”

“I am happy for you.” Was all that Bob said in that moment, but I could see and hear, how much he was telling me with that simple sentence. Then he tilted his head, wearing a rarely seen crocked smile on his face. “But back to the initial topic. Is this man the sex god he makes everyone think he is?” The fact that this innocent looking man, could say such lewd things caught me by surprise. I started laughing to the point I had tears springing from my eyes. And when I looked back at Bob, who seemed to have a rather hopeful expression, that I would deny it, gave me the last push to lose it. “I am sorry to disappoint you…” I pressed out between gasping for air and laughing so hard my stomach hurt. “But this man, does know his way around a woman’s body.”

“We are finally getting to the interesting part.” Phoenix stepped in, wiggling her eyebrows. “Is he as commanding and cocky in the bedroom as he is out here?” I just nodded, looking down, hoping the blush creeping up my cheeks would go unnoticed. To my big embarrassment, Phoenix caught it rather quickly. “Oh my god… You whore!” Bob looked at us a little bit confused. “I don’t quite understand…”

“Wifey over here, is a sucker for a dominant and experienced older man.” Phoenix filled him in, a wicked smile spreading across her face. “Tell me, did you guys do something spicy?” I quickly shook my head. “No. I mean he choked me but nothing to far of the grid. I am not as deep into the whole thing as he is, so we are taking it slow.”

“Not as deep?” Bob asked, scrunching his eyebrows. “Wait a minute. Hangman is into this whole kinky, BDSM, fifty shades of grey stuff?” Again, I was turning bright red, desperately searching for a way to get out this conversation. “Yeah, kind off. I am still figuring out how far I want to take it, so I don’t know yet how much he is into it.” I whispered, not daring to look them into the eyes.

“But you wanna try it?” Phoenix asked curiously. I shrugged. “I mean yes. Its intriguing.”

“You have to tell me everything, when you try something new. I am now considering this threeway an exclusive sextalk group and I swear, I will get offended, if I am not filled with any news.” Phoenix determent, looking at Bob and me. “And that also means you, Bobby. You are now a part of our womans circle, and for you to stay you have to pay your tribute to the group.”

“But…” Bob tried to reason with Phoenix, but she didn’t have any of his arguments. “No buts. You are caught in the web with us, so you will go down the way we do.” She seemed to be very proud of her newly founded secrecy. I just chuckled at her happiness. “Trust me, Bob. Being part of a girl group isn’t as bad as it may sound now. Once you get over the point of embarrassment you will get plenty of advise and new ideas to try out. Regarding almost every topic you can think off.” “Says the woman, who was about to flee the scene only minutes ago.” He groaned, hiding his face in his hands. I shrugged at his comment. “Yeah and I still am thinking about an escape plan for really close calls, but how about we do this together? You learn how to open up, and I try to learn my way into the kinky world of sex.”

“Deal.”

The day went on and soon the sun was shining at a lower angel in the afternoon. Once again painting Jakes blond hair golden. Penny was in a very good mood, as soon as Maverick showed up to the beach and now, she was walking towards the group with a stack of pizza cartons in her arms. Payback was the first to spot and walk over to her. Taking the food out of her hand. “Penny my dear, you are an angel send from god.” She just laughed at his flirtatious comment, patting him on the shoulder. “If I have learned anything in my years of being around military men, and women…” She gave us an apologetic look. “Is the fact, that they get very hungry, very easily. And I have another hour before I open up the bar, so I might as well join you for dinner.”

And now we were sitting around in a circle, on the patchwork blanket of several towels eating the pizza, Penny brought. I was sitting between Jakes legs, leaning my back against his chest, letting his warmth engulf me in the cooling afternoon wind. I could feel Mavericks eyes wandering over my body several times, giving me a stern look, once I caught him looking. I shrugged and smiled at him. That only made his gaze grow harder. I tilted my head, raising an eyebrow, silently asking him what his attitude was all about. He waved his hand in front of him, shaking his head and then spinning his hand in the air. I sighted: “Cyclone does know about me and Jake. He was the one pushing me to go for it. So, he wont worry. Or at least I will tell him to keep his nose out of my private life, when he does.”

Everyone looked at me a little confused, clearly nobody had noticed the silent talk between me and Maverick. Like me he ignored the stares, simply asking: “And you think it’s a good idea?” I squinted my eyes, sitting up straight. “We are not breaking any rules, Captain.” My tone was sharp while I didn’t let him out of my eyes. He folded his hands in his lap, also straightening his back. “I am aware of that. I am just considering the possibility, that your relationship might affect the work of this team.”

I took a deep breath, collecting my thoughts, so I wouldn’t lash out at him. “As far as I am aware, I am not flying with them, therefore I am not directly engaged in combat at the same time. And if you are implying, that I wont be able to do my work professionally, I have to disappoint you, since I am quite capable of differentiating between work and private life.” I didn’t hide the underlying threat in my words, and when he squinted his eyes starting to comment on what I just said, I interrupted him: “And as far as I am aware, you are not the one to make moral calls regarding navy rules.”

As soon as I said, what I said, there was a dreadful silence covering the group. Maverick clearly shocked by my boldness, took a deep breath. “Lieutenant, this is not the way to speak to a superior officer.”

“Don’t make this about ranks, now Pete! We are not breaking any rules, it is not interfering with the safety of your pilots, since my work ends before a mission and starts afterwards. I simply will not let a third party trying to intervene at something they should keep their nose out. If you ever feel, like this is high jacking anything work related, I ask of you to have a professional conversation with the Admiral being present. Otherwise, I request you separate work and your opinion on us.” I said with the coldest voice I could muster, staring Maverick down. After a while he sighted, raising his hands. “I am sorry Lilith. I am just worried, that’s all. Please don’t take it as a personal attack on you two. Because honestly? Hangman could use a reason to not be as reckless as he is now. I just hope that when it comes down, you guys will be able to stay professional.”

As soon as I saw, that he gave up the fight, I relaxed as well. “I know and I understand. Its just… Sorry for reacting the way I did, but I might have taken your concern as an attack on my ability to do my job. It wouldn’t be the first time for some navy bloke to question me and my professionality.”

Maverick gave me a smile. “Yeah… I can only imagine what it must be like for a young woman, trying to gain respect in this testosterone filled environment… Friends again?” I chuckled at his sweet face he made to convince me to let it slide. “We never stopped.” “Good to hear.” He seemed relieved, pulling Penny into his arms.

[kayssweetdreams]

Maestro Hiccups 3: Chaos Incarnate Ch 70

"Let's jump them. That way we can make sure that they don't do anything else. You say. The others nod as you come up with a plan to catch the kids off guard.

Moments later, You are on the top of a few buildings, waiting for Kirby and Celestia's signal. The plan is to keep the Koopa Kids in place long enough so that you could knock them out of the air with a fireball, and so Leo and Emma could grab the girl that they captured. The three of you try to stay hidden while Kirby prepares to stop the kids in the clown car.

Leo gives a yawn "Is it time yet?" He asks, bored of waiting for his moment. "Not yet Leo. We need to wait for Kirby's signal." Emma reassured "But we've be waiting for who know how long." He gripes, keeping his eyes on the ground below, hoping to see SOMETHING. "Just stay on guard, and stay quiet." You say from the other building, making a small ball of flames as practice.

Suddenly, Kirby and Celestia zoom by, leading the Koopa Kids into the alley. They both stop as Kirby cuts them off in the alleyway. "Hello Kirby, Celestia. Long time no see..." One of the koopafied kids say, one with a large pink and white bow in her hair "It hasn't been long enough." Kirby says, along with Celestia giving her own "Poyo!"

Another one with a green tuft of hair sticking upwards stares at the swapped duo "Hey...wait a minute. Aren't YOU supposed to be the one saying "Poyo"?" He asked, squinting his eyes "I guess that weird thing that happened affected them too." One With pink sunglasses said, tilting them downwards ri get a better look.

"Doesn't matter. We're still gonna pummel you to dust, and we're gonna get Kiara to dad!" The smallest one, holding up a paintbrush and had a mask on said, as the other kids gave a loud, roaring "YEAH!" Kirby and Celestia narrowed their eyes "Over our dead bodies!" He said, as Celestia gave another "POYO!"

The girl in the Koopa Kids grasp struggled "Yeah!! Over mine too!" She yelled. "Hang on Kiara!" Another voice shouts. On the other side, you could see The Mario Bros, and who you could only assume is Drew and Vito finally caught up to the flying car. "This is gonna happen one of two ways: You're gonna give us back Kiara easily, or we're gonna have to take you down." Drew says

"Well then, I guess it's the second option, because we aren't going down without a FIGHT!" The one with the paintbrush yells before they all begin to fight, causing a large cloud of dust from the fighting to overtake the small streets, making it hard to see where your allies, and your enemies were.

"What are you waiting for! Fire that fireball!" Leo shouts. The ball forms in your hand, but with the brawl still going, you feel reluctant to throw it, as you might accidentally hit Kirby, Celestia or the brothers. But then again, you might get lucky and hit one of the kids.

Celestia, Drew, Vito, The Bronson Kids, Blossom Bay, and Project Link Up belong to @sundove88

[anjaliprabhakar]

Top 10 Juices to Jumpstart Your Weight Loss Journey (and Keep it Going!)

Hey everyone! We all know the struggle – that extra weight that just seems to stick around. You might be watching what you eat, hitting the gym, or even trying out yoga at home for weight loss, but sometimes that stubborn weight just won't budge.

Well, listen up! While juice cleanses and fad diets might be tempting, a sustainable weight loss plan is key. Here's where juices can be awesome allies! Packed with vitamins, minerals, and water, they can help you feel fuller for longer, curb cravings, and give your body a healthy boost.

But with all those juicing recipes out there, where do you even start? Don't worry, I've got you covered! Here's my top 10 list of weight-loss friendly juices, along with some tips to make juicing a fun and effective part of your journey.

Hydration Hero: Celery Juice

We all know water is king, but sometimes you crave something with a little more flavor. Celery juice is your low-cal BFF. At over 95% water, it keeps you hydrated while being super low in calories. Plus, it's packed with antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds that fight inflammation – a big factor in weight gain.

Tip: Celery juice can be a bit strong on its own. Try adding a squeeze of lemon or a cucumber for a refreshing twist.

2. Green Goodness: Classic Green Juice

Think of green juice as a garden in a glass! Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and swiss chard are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber (although juicing removes some fiber, you'll still get a good dose). They also help with digestion and reduce inflammation.

Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment with flavors! Add some sweetness with apple or pear, or a zing with lemon or grapefruit.

3. Belly Buster: Watermelon Mint Cooler

Watermelon is practically synonymous with summer, but it's a weight-loss warrior year-round! This juicy fruit is high in water and low in calories, making it super filling. Plus, it contains L-citrulline, an amino acid that can help your body burn fat more efficiently. Mint adds a refreshing touch and aids digestion.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, add a handful of chia seeds to your juice.

4. Citrus Powerhouse: Grapefruit and Ginger Juice

Grapefruit is a breakfast staple for a reason! Studies suggest it can help with weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and regulating blood sugar. Ginger adds a spicy kick that can also help curb cravings and boost your metabolism.

Tip: If the tartness of grapefruit is a bit much, try adding a squeeze of orange or a dash of honey for a touch of sweetness.

5. Beet It! Beetroot and Carrot Blast

Beetroot might seem like an unusual juicing ingredient, but hear me out! This vibrant root vegetable is loaded with antioxidants and nitrates, which can help improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to your muscles, enhancing your workouts. Carrots add a touch of sweetness and beta-carotene, which is great for your skin.

Tip: Beetroot can stain, so be careful when prepping! Wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.

6. Tropical Twist: Pineapple and Spinach Surprise

Don't let the spinach scare you away! This tropical blend is a delicious way to get your daily dose of greens. Pineapple is a natural source of bromelain, an enzyme that can help with digestion and reduce inflammation. Plus, it's sweet and juicy, making the spinach more palatable.

Tip: Frozen pineapple chunks are a great way to add a frosty feel to your juice on a hot day.

7. Berry Blast: Mixed Berry Medley

Berries are nutritional powerhouses! Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, they can help keep you feeling full and regulate blood sugar. This mix allows you to play with different flavors – strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, the choice is yours!

Tip: If you're using frozen berries, there's no need to add ice cubes.

8. Spicy Sunrise: Veggie and Ginger Kickstart

Looking for a morning pick-me-up with a kick? This juice is your answer! Start with cucumber and celery for hydration, then add a zing with ginger and jalapeno (be careful with the amount!). Finish it off with a squeeze of lemon for a vitamin C boost.

Tip: This juice can be quite spicy. Adjust the amount of jalapeno to your taste preference.

9. Creamy Dream: Tropical Protein Powerhouse

This juice is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or post-workout refuel. Combine mango and banana for a creamy texture and natural sweetness. Spinach adds a hidden dose of greens, while almond milk provides a protein boost to keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Tip: Use frozen banana chunks for a thicker, creamier consistency.

10. Immunity Booster: Citrus and Veggie Medley

This juice is a one-two punch for your immune system and your waistline! Grapefruit and orange provide a dose of vitamin C, while carrots and beetroot add antioxidants and essential vitamins. Ginger keeps the flavor interesting and may help with digestion.

Tip: If you find the grapefruit and orange too tart, add a green apple for a touch of sweetness.

ALSO READ: Can Buttermilk Aid Your Weight Loss Journey?

Remember: Juicing is a fantastic way to add extra nutrients to your diet and support your weight loss journey, but it's not a magic bullet. Here are some extra tips to maximize your success:

Focus on Whole Foods: While juices are great, don't ditch your fruits and veggies altogether! You'll get more fiber by eating them whole.

Portion Control: Juices can be high in sugar, so limit yourself to one serving (around 16 ounces) per day.

Balanced Diet: Pair your juices with healthy meals and snacks to ensure you're getting all the nutrients your body needs.

Listen to Your Body: Juicing shouldn't cause discomfort. If you experience bloating or digestive issues, adjust your intake or consult a doctor.

Variety is Key: Don't get stuck in a juicing rut! Experiment with different fruits, vegetables, and herbs to keep things interesting.

Bonus Tip: Making juicing a social activity can be a fun way to stay motivated. Get your friends or family involved and host a juicing party!

By incorporating these tips and these delicious juice recipes into your routine, you can keep your weight-loss journey on track and feeling great from the inside out! Remember, consistency is key. So, grab your juicer, pick your favorite recipe, and get blending!

And hey, if you're looking for some extra help with weight loss, don't forget about exercise! Even a short yoga routine at home or a brisk walk can make a big difference.

Here's to a healthier, happier you!

[transmascmion]

Just finished Minagoroshi! I think this is the longest one according to my steam time lol

Random messy thoughts and spoilers below

Overall I really liked this one- did it feel slow at times..? Yeah. There was a lot of dealing with the consultation center GJFJD

But tbh, it felt important- you really feel the characters struggles that way! Not to mention all of this emphasizes how much these characters love each other- which is one of my fave aspects of the games XD

I love Hanyuu she’s so cute (playing with original sprites tho cuz i uhh. Don’t like her Updated look.)

Tbh the whole ending bit of the cast being like “Hanyuu we all died cuz u didn’t believe” kinda made me sad cuz I kinda related to her despair- but it is important and I respect the authors decision to stick to the message and themes. I think I really should take these themes more to heart lol,,

Uhm what else- I loved seeing more Shion she’s great XD also having Ooishi as an ally was cool to see as well.

Irie still needs JAIL I’m sorry it’s so hard for me to get behind his character GKGKH

WAIT I should mention the uhh. Hinamizawa Syndrome stuff is wild to me- this is the second VN type game I’ve played where the reason characters are killing each other (and sometimes themselves) is cuz of a drug made to kill lots of ppl (if u know the game you get a cookie gkgkg)

Tbh not a huge fan of when games pull this kinda stuff, but it doesn’t ruin it for me lol I still thought “yeah that makes sense”

OH speaking of the ending CAN I SAY THAT RIKA SAVING SATOKO, EVEN THO SHE COULD HAVE RAN AWAY AND SAVED HERSELF WAS THE CUTEST THING EVER??? AAAWHHH she was NOT gonna let her bestie die!! All the Rika and Satoko stuff this chapter was so sweet I just- aaaa they love each other so much 💚😭

Sooo yeah, overall I thought it was kinda cool. Not in my top 3 but to be fair there are some STRONG games in this series- hard to compete with XD

[j-graysonlibrary]

The Xiang Chronicles: Book Two Chapter 34

Title: The Xiang Chronicles: Book Two

Author: Jay Grayson

Word Count: 98k

Genres: Fantasy, adventure, drama, LGBT+

Available on: my website

Synopsis: With another Xiang in the mix, for the first time in history, Pangu decides to reevaluate his methods and his place in the world. Along with taking his little sister Heidi as his last disciple, he also chooses to take the more political path in his efforts to end the discord throughout the land—particularly within Terra. (And gaining favor from the handsome Lord of Ultimos does not hurt.)

Heidi butts heads with everyone in the group, save Raine, and tensions are higher than ever. There are failed love confessions, in-group fighting, and demons from Kira’s past but that all comes to a head when they meet a servant of Shakti who is more than what she seems.

Could it be that the Mistresses of Shadow are more nuanced than previously believed? Or that the strict dichotomy between light and dark are, perhaps, a touch exaggerated? That and more begin to plague Pangu’s mind and his faith wavers…

Full chapter 34 under the cut

Chapter XXXIV:

With the arrowhead behind them and a fire burning in the middle of their circle, Alf read out the letter he would send to Kuniser in the morning. He asked for feedback and any recommendations for adding information. It was a bulky letter, filled with to the brim with information and quite a lot of passion from Alf.

“See, that is a letter requesting an audience right there,” Heidi said, shaking a finger. She also smiled as she looked to Viren, seemingly forgetting that he was not the actual author of the note that called them to Ultimos.

The lord shook his head and switched direction entirely. “After our meeting with Lord Dio, I believe I will take Oli into Agni.”

He had not mentioned anything like it before and Pangu sat up straighter. “What? Why?”

“We talked before about how the lords in Agni could be valuable allies. I think we should attempt to secure both King Raime as well as whoever we can in Agni.”

“But…we can circle back. Together.” Pangu frowned.

Viren did not let his expression stop him from smiling. “Pangu, this will be faster—better in the long run. Besides, creating these ties will be necessary going forward. Just coming to Meala has taught me that I know a frighteningly small amount about this world. If I want my throne back, I need to do better. And that starts, for me, in building a better relationship with Agni.”

It made sense but Pangu still felt a twitch in his heart at the thought of parting again.

Then Baiya spoke, “My sister is in good standing with Lord Phay. I can send you to my family and they will lead you well.”

Viren gave him a grateful nod. “Thank you, Baiya.”

“So, we will go to Kyrie while you and Oli make for Agni,” Raine clarified, “Perhaps we can meet again in Kuniser if Lord Dio is approving.”

“What of Enlil?” Heidi asked, “Do we just let Merra stick her grubby hands all over our land and use them how she pleases?”

“I think Enlil is stronger than she realizes,” Pangu responded. He at least hoped it was the case. “If she struggles with them then we have even more time.”

“If she gets through us at all,” Idris said with his chest puffed.

“Careful, we do not want a war down here,” Alf warned. He had entertained, during several of their campfire meetings, the idea of “surrendering” to Merra but still working against her. It would cost lives of Meala people either way but that way there would be less bloodshed.

People of northern and central Terra knew little of the region anyway so they could still easily hide and host Pangu and his disciples at any time while playing Merra’s game. It was a risky gambit if they were found out but direct refusal could bring genocide.

Alf knew that but Idris liked to imagine their people would win in any war they fought. Heidi would often have to remind him, “You are not even a fighter, Boosha.”

“Urishka, you hurt me.” The man pouted.

Pangu watched them, past the crackling fire, and he felt his chest constrict again. “You know…” he licked over his lips, pausing in his sudden nervousness, “if any of you want out of this…you do not have to come with me. You can do whatever you want…”

“Where is this coming from?” Kira asked with a frown.

“Well…” he shrugged. “I am, technically, no longer Xiang and, likewise, you are not my disciples. Not really. So you have no duty-bound reason to stay. I would not blame anyone for leaving and taking care of themselves.”

Baiya was the first to speak up, grabbing his hand as he did so. “I would not leave you for anything.”

“Yes, you are still Xiang,” Raine seconded, “To me, at least.”

“I am not quitting after all this,” Heidi huffed.

Pangu’s eyes landed on Kira who had not said his piece yet. He watched him and leaned forward, expecting a similar sentiment.

“Pangu,” he finally spoke, a serious glimmer in his eyes, “You practically dragged me into this…there is no way you are getting rid of me now that I am here.”

He chuckled, relieved and happy that they all felt the same.

“Besides,” Kira continued on, “What the fuck else are we supposed to do? I mean, I guess Raine still has a job and Baiya can go back to being a momma’s boy but what would I do?”

Pangu snickered while Baiya tossed a pebble over the fire at him.

A crack, from the wood line, sucked the life out of the group and everyone turned to look at once. The noise was not a noise alone—there was a burst of energy that came through and it was distinct, especially to Pangu.

It was enough to suck the warmth out of his body, replacing his blood with ice and his heart with an impossibly heavy stone, sinking ever deeper into his gut. While everyone else looked around, scanning the perimeter of the woods for the threat, he froze and stared directly toward the source of power.

Slowly, the others followed suit, brandishing their weapons and tensing as the tree branches and shrubs shook, disturbed. Streaks of light emerged before the figure, themselves, made an appearance. Tall, donned in white, and faintly glowing, the intruder stood before them.

A few rogue leaves stuck to their raven black hair and beard but, other than that, they were untarnished. Kira’s eyes narrowed, instantly prepared to fight with Baiya right behind him. Heidi, despite her nerves, was a close third while Raine hoped that some sort of compromised could be reached all while gripping his trident with white knuckles. Viren stepped before Oli, shielding him with an arm while Alf opened and closed his mouth, never having seen the figure before but having quite a visceral idea of who they were.

“Zhu?” Pangu questioned and held up his hands, ready to throw a barrier over them all at a moment’s notice.

The oldest of his teachers smiled and briefly bowed his head. “Yes. I need to speak to you, Pangu.”

“No you don’t,” Kira countered instantly.

“Why are you here?” Heidi asked right after.

Zhu glanced between everyone, eyes sticking with each individual for longer than was comfortable before finally landing on Pangu. “As you can see, I am by myself. Merra knows nothing of this meeting.”

“I do not understand,” Pangu admitted and then shook his head. “Unless you are here to explain this plan of yours that she spoke of…I am not sure there is value in talking to you.”

He let his head hang and sighed. “It pains me to see you so hurt by my presence, Pangu.” When he looked at him again, he frowned. “Please, son, do not make this difficult.”

When his gaze flickered over to the others, Pangu felt his heart lurch into his throat. When it came to fighting, he did not know what Zhu could do, not really, so to challenge him further was dangerous.

With that in mind, he let his arm drop. “Fine. We shall talk.”

The last thing he heard was a muffled call of his name from everyone before he was transported to the tomb in the spirit realm. It felt even more dreadful and empty than the last time he accidently came upon it.

A few feet stayed between him and Zhu while the stone building, confined by ropes and spells, stood as their backdrop. The usual lilac of the sky grew a little darker and there was a rumble like thunder. Pangu did not even realize it stormed in the spirit realm but, he supposed, when he really thought of it, he could not see why it wouldn’t.

That was beside the point, however, and he did not linger on it. His eyes stayed focused on Zhu who had yet to blink. “I can guess what you want to talk about.”

“I am sure you can.”

Pangu frowned and shook his head. “I just do not know why you would come here to talk about it. It does not need to be said. It is obvious.”

“It is,” Zhu agreed, “Obvious, foolish, selfish…”

He flinched when he said the word ‘selfish’. “Everyone is selfish sometimes.”

A bitter smile reached Zhu’s lips and he clasped his hands behind his back. “No. Not everyone. The Xiang is not supposed to be. The Xiang is also not supposed to be a beacon of sin and ruin yet here we stand.”

Pangu bit down on his tongue. His mentor’s words were no longer cordial—there was poison on his teeth.

“You may think I am some evil puppet of Shakti now but I feel a similar disappointment when I think of you and your plans for this world.” He stood his ground. “What Merra told me was terrible and against everything you taught me. I just want to help the people of this world. I believed that was my purpose.”

“Your purpose,” a new voice entered and shook the ground. The sky darkened to a deep violet and streaks of pink electricity shot out in all directions, piercing clouds and striking the ground with a clap. Wind whipped up around them, blowing robes and hair in all directions. A shadow, like a giant in the distance, appeared on the horizon and Pangu took it in with horror.

He had never believed, in all of his life, that they would meet like this. It was supposed to be pleasant, serene even, and deeply enlightening. He was supposed to be filled with light and reverence—he was supposed to be happy right now.

He was supposed to be a lot of things.

“Your purpose,” he repeated with more gravel, his voice like the winds of a hurricane, “was to do as I say.”

Pangu’s insides felt hollow. He gulped and stared at the bust in the sky—at a loss for words.

He was bigger than the mountains in the distance, more defined than the clouds but also less tangible. His skin brought light back to the realm even if the sky around his head and shoulders continued to darken. Black hair, long and smooth, fell somewhere past where Pangu could see as did the length of his beard. A white band tied around his forehead—a much smaller symbol of his godhood than expected. The insignia on the band was difficult to make out despite the size of it since the glow from his skin obscured many of the details on his face.

Really, he looked almost identical to the Heavenly Princes but just larger and more severe. They were made in his image and carried a little piece of him with them so that was to be expected but the extent of their likeness still startled Pangu.

“Tiandi,” he finally said his name.

His eyes widened, bulged. “Do not speak my name so impudently! Bow! Meager yourself before me!”

Pangu could not. He kept standing and just stared.

Of all the stories he had heard of Tiandi, he knew he was a strict God and he had a high standard for manners and demanded respect but he had also always assumed he was like a warm but old-fashioned father. He imagined he would kindly ask him to correct his behavior if it offended him or offer praise for what he did find acceptable.

He did not think he would yell.

His mentors never yelled so why would Tiandi?

“BOW!” Tiandi bellowed and the realm shook, sending Pangu to his knees. When he stayed down there, getting his bearings, Tiandi muttered, “Better.”

Pangu felt the heat of tears prickle his eyes as he looked up. “What brings you here? To speak to me directly?”

That time, his eyebrows furled and the brightness of his skin flared around him, lapping about like flames. “Do not ask questions you know the answer to! You have sullied my name and my image. You have besmirched the title of Xiang for all eternity. You cannot possibly be ignorant of this!”

Zhu stepped closer and looked down at Pangu with an expression that read as sad but it was difficult to tell. He did not especially believe he knew any of them anymore.

“I tried, Pangu,” Zhu said and closed his eyes. “I gave you two chances to save yourself, to redeem your name in Tiandi’s eyes. He wished you dead the moment you chose that Chaaya for a disciple but me and the other Princes worked tirelessly to grant you leeway. And what do you do?”

Pangu tried to rise from his knees but he was frozen in place. A force, from Tiandi, was keeping in the kneeling position. All he could do was turn his head upward to meet his old teacher’s eyes.

“I was honest with myself…” Pangu tried, in vain, to hold back the tears. A few streaked down his face. “I wished to help the people…I have done nothing to help Shakti. I have done nothing to hurt the people…”

“Stop lying!” Zhu raised his voice, shaking Pangu to his core. He sounded like Tiandi now. “You keep saying this was all for the people but you and I AND Tiandi all know that is not true. You told the world you want to lay with men not for their benefit but because you wanted to! You chose your disciples by your feelings alone—one because you found him attractive! Every decision you have made has been selfish and childish! I should have been a better parent to you, I really should have been. I let you get away with far too much and allowed you to become too full of yourself.”

Pangu’s tears fell to the rock under him, some bouncing off and others soaking into the surface right away. He shook, his muscles aching under the strain of his position as well as their desire to flee. But, of course, he still could not.

“Merra will take your place,” Tiandi spoke with a voice that was softer and filled with less anger and more purpose. “We will do our best to erase your existence from the people’s mind and let this failure be a memory only for us so that we do not make the same mistakes again.”

Failure. Erasure. Mistake. Pangu’s vision blurred and his skin chilled. He could not even speak. He suspected Tiandi sealed that ability as well.

“Zhu will take your soul away from this world and I pray to never meet you again.”

Pangu tensed, using all of the energy he had in him to try moving again. He cried out, in his mind, but on the outside he remained quiet and bowed as if in penance.

His eyes focused on his right hand and he collected his energy there, enough to move his index finger. A shot of excitement was quickly followed by a shot of pain.

A sharp slice came first and then a blunt pressure all through his chest spread like wildfire. He was not sure if he was breathing or not before but he knew now that it hurt to. His lungs must have been torn open by the spike of rock jutting through his middle. His heart, too, was smashed.

Pangu kept awareness for an excruciatingly long time. It had to have been minutes where he remained, on his hands and knees, screaming internally but only letting out blood from his mouth. More tears fell from his eyes, joining the splatter of red and the realization blossomed in him just as his consciousness began fading.

He would not be going back.

He did not even get to say goodbye.

***

It had been too long—the sun was already rising. Everyone fanned out, even the villagers as they started to rise for the morning, and they searched the perimeter on the off chance that Pangu had reappeared somewhere farther away.

The disciples and Viren met back at the arrowhead, exhausted and fearful. No one had found him.

“Are they keeping him in the spirit realm?” Raine asked despite knowing that no one knew the answer.

“They can’t,” Baiya replied, not hiding his frustration.

“I’ll kill that bastard when I see him,” Kira grumbled, “I don’t care who he is.”

Viren watched them all with a furrowed brow and a frown. He was not sure if anyone else felt the sinking sensation he did. All he knew was that he could not stomach it much longer.

“Look!” Heidi’s sudden shout, brought with it a spike of energy.

Right where the old man had left from, his form started to take shape again. The sun kissed the back of his white robes as he appeared, arms full of a long roll of fabric. It dipped in his hold and the disciples held their breath.

“Where is Pangu?!” Kira demanded.

“Silence,” Zhu boomed before removing one hand to pull forth the fabric, revealing a body underneath. “If you do not cease your crusade against the Xiang Merra, you will meet his same fate.”

He dropped the body to the ground and there was almost no need to have a closer look but without seeing, with their own eyes, they might not have believed it.

Heidi was the first to scream and Viren covered his mouth, dropping to his knees and trembling. Raine walked slowly forward, his heart pulling down to the depths of his stomach while Baiya collapsed at the side of the corpse. Cries, yells, the calling of his name—“Pangu!”

Kira could not make a sound, however. He could only stare at the lifeless body of his companion. His best friend. What was before him reflected what was within.

A coldness.

A darkness.

An emptiness.

The grief was overwhelming and loud and visceral but it would not wake Pangu. It would not bring him back.

[crystalelemental]

Unit Teambuilding - Variety Bruno

Of all the options, I would not have expected Bruno.  But here we are, I suppose. Apparently this is associated with the new story event with trainers, which means Bruno just beat out Lance for an alt.  Fs in the chat for that one dude on Reddit who’s been rallying for Lance.

General Overview As stated with Lorelei, she and Bruno are very identical in terms of their broad function, but have different roles.  I will do my best to emphasize these differences.

Bruno’s function is Dire Hit All+, and trainer move that gives +6 Def, +2 Atk, and +1 stack of physical moves up next.  Right away, you can tell Bruno’s issue is similar to Lorelei; he buffs attack and crit separately.  But instead of struggling with both, Bruno guarantees crit reliably, but cannot get Attack capped without Flag Bearer on Rock Throw.  Bruno’s natural skills are Endurance, Team Swift Reaction for speed buffs whenever he’s hit, and Sterner Stuff 2 to reduce damage taken.  Again, much like Lorelei, he is a tank, designed to absorb hits.  And just like Lorelei, he has no ability to heal his allies, beyond Trainer Move: Hit and Heal.  In fact, he also has no means of healing himself.  Which is generally a bad sign in Gauntlet.

The major difference is in his status move.  While Lorelei got the fairly useless Protect, Bruno got Screech.  Lorelei’s defense dropping utility was wildly inconsistent, but Bruno’s is guaranteed and drastic.  Between this and the moves up next, Bruno’s function should be relatively clear.  Bruno aims to overwhelm an opponent quickly, and isn’t too concerned with survival beyond that.  Which, I think, makes him the less effective of the two.  Sure, maximizing crit rate is nice, but in three turns he’s got +1 crit over Lorelei, but -2 attack.  And if he wants to fix the attack gap, he’s got to attack with Rock Throw, which takes away from Screech.  Unlike Lorelei, Bruno has rotation considerations, and appreciates when allies can just handle attack on their own.  Especially when you consider just how much energy it takes, in addition to the time.  The ideal play is Trainer Move -> Dire Hit All -> Dire Hit All -> Sync, and having Team Mighty Sync to give another stack of physical moves up next, then going ham.

Effectively, Lorelei excels at the long game, provided AoE isn’t too aggressive.  Bruno excels at rapid-fire, aiming for quick clears.  Of the two, my preference goes to Lorelei.  I appreciate the safety of Team Endurance.  But Bruno absolutely has his uses.

Team 1: V!Bruno, Brawly, Marshal Bruno here works really well with Relentless nukes, thanks to Screech.   Brawly is a really nice partner, because Brawly supplies Potion heals for Bruno, keeping him in the game longer.  For faster clears, Brawly can reliably debuff defense for Bruno before Screech happens, while Marshal has serious DPS in Drain Punch that can be improved by the stacks of moves up next.

Team 2: V!Bruno, Lodge Gloria, Brock Double snake is funny to me.  Bruno works best with allies who don't need much attack support, but still need crit.  Lodge Gloria can offload her crit buffing to Bruno and get swinging early, needing only +2 attack from Bruno's trainer move to finish buffing.  Brock similarly needs very little, and offers both additional Defense Crush procs and Potion support.  I feel like I may be over-emphasizing the Potion thing, but I'm sticking by it.  Gloria has a notably powerful move as well, which can bap a lot of targets.

Team 3: V!Bruno, Kris, Tech Gyarados Kris is a pretty solid Bruno partner, gaining a lot of traction from his assistance with crit and attack, but also speed and Screech.  He kinda hits every note that Kris wants to see hit, just add rain.  And the physical moves up next while she’s buffing?  She will kick you apart.

Final Thoughts Bruno’s niche is consistent debuffing of defense, and physical moves up next.  Not many, but some.  He focuses on aggressive play and beating opponent’s quickly, before the lack of healing and security becomes an issue.  His gauge control is nice, though, and I do think he’s got merit.  I just also feel like Lorelei’s better.  Team Endurance, man.  Have you ever tried it?  Safety Net gaming?  It’s fantastic, I’d recommend it.  It’s like one of C!Calem’s best redeeming qualities.

[aronarchy]

really, really disappointed by queera*narchism's posts abt trans men. ive liked their takes in the past. seeing "stop pretending that there’s an ‘equally but differently oppressed’ dynamic going on. There’s not." hurts

.

[spectral-kitkat]

Miraculous Rant.

Where the hell do I begin…

Season 1:

The show was decent in season 1. Some episodes were just mindless filler and probably weren’t needed in the grand scheme of things but they helped us get introduced to the characters, we got to know the plot and the world our characters inhabit. It was good. The love story between Adrien and Marinette was cute and off to a touching and fluffy start.

Season 2:

This season was immediately better than season 1. It had character development, it went more into detail about the lore surrounding the Miraculous and we got to learn more about our characters and their families and the villian’s motives. (HM really went from “I wanna destroy the world” to “I wanna wake my wife from the coma she’s in”).

We got to see new heroes which was fun! We got new characters like Luka and Kagami.

The season finale was epic! The Miraculous team all taking down all the previous villains in the show was awesome. At the end we even got Mari kissing Adrien on the cheek. It was great! (Even though it clearly reset itself in season 3 cause it’s never mentioned again)

I really enjoyed season 2 and it’s probably my favourite out of the 4.

Season 3:

Season 3 was kinda good and kinda bad. We had some great episodes but this is where the show took the wrong turn.

Marinette lost some of her character in season 3. This was the start of her descent into being the Queen of Mary Sues. It’s also where she was crowned the Queen of Stalkers! Her character took a fucking nose dive in this season. We had so many moments that just creeped me the fuck out.

1. The ENTIRETY of Puppeteer 2 🤢🤢🤢 I could not stand that episode. When we reached the dreaded statue scene I physically had to pause it like 10 times. That scene takes about 3 minutes to watch… it took me about 20. I cringed so fucking hard because of the secondhand embarrassment I was feeling. That was not sweet, it wasn’t romantic, it wasn’t the least bit cute… it was a train wreck! It was creepy and stalkerish and it’s a wonder Adrien even spoke to her again after that atrocity!

2. LB delivering the present in Chat Blanc. Two words: STALKER BEHAVIOUR!!! I genuinely could not believe my eyes when I saw LB run her hand across everything in his room and then actually SNIFF Adrien’s pillow. Like WTF!!! 🤮 I’m pretty sure whoever was responsible for that scene clearly thought it was the equivalent of when someone gets their S/O’s jumper or something and it still smells like them. But this turned it up to the nth degree and way passed the line of sanity.

Adrien was extremely under-utilised in this season. He didn’t really do anything. The only episodes we got about him didn’t really focus on him. ‘Felix’ whilst focusing on Adrien’s family didn’t really feature him. ‘Party Crasher’ while a beautiful mess was more about Mari trying to get into the party than the party itself. ‘Chat Blanc’ again focused more on Mari trying to fix her mistake.

We got even more heroes in season 3, not in the right order but they were there. It was fun seeing everyone’s transformations.

Season 3 was also the season of destroying redemptions. The big one obviously being Chloe. Season 2 was setting up this amazing redemption for her and before it could go anywhere it was wiped off the face of the earth during the finale (and don’t worry we’ll get to that dumpster fire later). Gabriel also had any remaining sympathy ripped away from him. How did the guy who stopped Gorizilla from letting Adrien die when he only thought he was CN go from that to using his son like fucking baseball in Chat Blanc when he knew his son was CN. Like I knew you were a shit father but you still cared about Adrien in some way shape or form but after that episode I can see I was clearly mistaken!

Before we get to the finale I want to talk about probably my 2 least favourite episodes from this season: Desperada and Reflekdoll

Desperada:

I fucking hated this episode! The only good thing was Luka getting to be Viperion, other than that this episode was awful!

Marinette was a selfish cringey bitch. Completely ignoring Luka to gush about Adrien to Jagged. Brushing Luka off as soon as Adrien turns up. Immediately cuddling up to Aspik and flirting with him when she needed to focus on the akuma (something which she has told CN not to do many times before)

Adrien, I love you kid but Jesus Christ you were a dumbass in this episode! Aspik’s design was terrible! Aspik himself was awful. I know Adrien tried his best but dude you were given the Black Cat miraculous for a reason! He shouldn’t have tried to be Aspik but even when he did he should’ve called it quits after like 5 resets not 25,913 times.

The only person with a brain this episode was Luka. So well done guitar boy, gold star!

Reflekdoll:

This episode was annoying! It was basically the start of the Marinette can do no wrong streak! When they have to swap miraculous I was happy cause it meant we got to see new outfits and see how they each handle the different powers. It would also serve as a way to get LB and CN to see what their partners role is first hand. Until we actually get to it…

LadyNoire is of course amazing and needs no introduction to using this new miraculous that she’s never used before. She’s cocky and confident and basically just LB in Chat’s costume with his powers.

Mister Bug on the other hand is just useless. He struggles with this new miraculous (like anyone would!) and is stupid and goofy. He has to rely on LadyNoire to solve the lucky charm. They swapped miraculous so shouldn’t that mean that Mister Bug should get the lucky vision and the creative powers that the earrings give him.

Overall Reflekdoll is awful. It was shitty writing and the start of Adrien getting the short end of the stick.

And now the season 3 finale… Just what the fuck. That is my only reaction: what the fuck!

Chloe you poor fucking child! What did they do to you!!! So much potential SQUANDERED!!!!

What was the point in bringing in all these different superheros with unique skill sets, costumes and transformations if you were just going to immediately reveal them to the main villian so they can’t be used again. That’s stupid! If you wanted the shock value that is “Oh no HM knows some of the heroes identities!” Then keep it as only some. Have like Max, Kim and Kagami outside trying to find somewhere to hide but unfortunately they get hit. Or Nino and Alya are hiding but the windows open and they get hit. Have some of the heroes hide so they’re fine! Taking away every ally of LB and CN’s was a stupid move! (Even if they wanted Alya to become a spy have her as part of the like 4 that get revealed or something, it’s not that difficult)

Season 3 was 50/50 for me

Season 4:

So I know season 4 isn’t even halfway through yet but so much is wrong with this season already that I need to vent!

So my biggest problem with this season of Miraculous: Tales of Ladybitch and Rena Rouge, I mean Rena Furtive… shit, Chat Noir! Is that CN is basically pointless! Adrien has been flung over a rainbow and is only remembered when he’s needed as

1. Marinette’s love interest

2. Someone for LB to shout at

3. A plot device

He has basically been sidelined. Partners my ASS!!!

Adrien is being blown off by pretty much EVERYONE! It’s coming to a point where this poor sweet summer child is going to crack! And it is not gonna be pretty… I definitely feel like the writers are leading up to a big fight between CN and LB which will probably end with Chat Blanc 2.0.

I REALLY HATE MARINETTE/LADYBUG!!!! In Season 3 I said it was the beginning of her descent, well in season 4 she’s done it. She’s descended, she has hit rock fucking bottom. She is so unlikable I don’t actually care about her as a person. She has entered full blown stalker territory it’s only a matter of time before she starts killing people for even looking at Adrien! Not to mention that Miss Mary Sue here can’t do anything wrong! She never has to suffer the consequences of her actions, she is always perfect no matter what she does… it pisses me off!)

She’s the Guardian now big whoop. I know what it feels like to be stressed and under pressure so I do understand why she needed to tell someone about it all. I just don’t see why that person had to Alya! Especially considering she has someone by her side every akuma attack going through pretty much the exact same thing. I know she’s worried about CB happening again but as I said before the more she leaves him out the more she is actually pushing that to become a possibility! Plus it makes sense for them to reveal their identities now since LB is now the guardian it’s probably a good idea to know who holds the cat miraculous, she knows everyone else’s identities!

Even if she didn’t want to tell CN her identity she could still explain the situation to him. If she didn’t want to tell him anything (which she doesn’t anyway) then instead of Alya she should’ve talked to Luka! Her boyfriend for all of half an episode (thanks writers…). He’s so sweet and caring and clearly loves her so much! If she wanted someone to confide in then why not choose the person you clearly wanted to date but couldn’t because of that very reason! (Yeah I know it’s kinda a moot point now since Luka knows both identities but still). He wanted to try and comfort her so it would’ve been the perfect moment for it. That way you could still date him and he’d know why you had to suddenly leave dates halfway through! But no break the boys heart instead!

Adrien and Marinette were both such fucking idiots in the first 2 episodes. Like why would you start a relationship with someone when you know your heart isn’t in it! That’s called leading someone on and is a really shitty thing to do to someone! No wonder Kagami and Luka ended up akumatized!

Another aspect of season 4 I don’t like is Rena Furtive. Yes ok having a spy for your side is a good strategy but when said spy basically tells an important member of a duo that the 2 person job doesn’t involve them… it just really ticks me off! Alya you are the sidekick to LB and CN! Chat isn’t!

Miraculous specials:

The Miraculous World specials suck! Shanghai is better than NY but still has its problems. Both specials add nothing to the overall plot/lore of the show apart from trying to set up some weird cinematic universe…

NY special:

One of the worst things I’ve ever had to sit through! The plane scene alone I paused a few times. I want to say well done to Mari for trying to move on from Adrien (especially considering I’m pretty sure she’s dating Luka at this point) but I can’t help but think it’s just to give her character some pointless development that goes nowhere and doesn’t actually develop anything!

LB can pretty much fuck off at this point! I hate her! She put all this shit on CN (like she doesn’t know exactly how that feels). It’s like why does she get to go off on holiday but CN can’t. LB should’ve stayed in Paris for 3 reasons:

1. She’s recently become the guardian meaning it would probably be best that she stayed with the Mircle Box

2. She’s the only one who can purity the akumas

3. If she’s so sure about being the boss then she should take responsibility of Paris and the citizens.

What really pisses me off about her is what she says to CN during the big fight. “I can’t trust you”… surely you could have this conversation afterwards since you’re supposed to be focusing on taking down the villian! Plus everyone bashes Adrien for giving his miraculous up in this episode but look at it from his point of view: His partner and best friend just said she couldn’t trust him which in turn caused him to cataclysm someone and essentially kill them. That’s gonna take a toll on anyone, especially a 14 year old! He probably thought in that moment. “Ladybug needs a partner she can trust and someone who won’t mess up and kill someone. She needs a better partner.” It makes sense he renounces his miraculous! I’m just upset that in doing so he loses Plagg who is pretty much his only friend who actually understands what Adrien goes through at home.

When Uncanny gets CN to come back, LB acts like it’s not her fault in the first place that he feels inadequate! She didn’t even apologise for saying what she did! He apologised for lying about not being in Paris but nope LB wasn’t in the wrong at all and didn’t have anything to apologise for 🙄… (yes the LadyNoir hug was amazing but I just wish it was under different circumstances!)

Also are we not gonna mention Gabriel Agreste almost starting WW3??? He wanted to launch a fucking missile!!!

Shanghai:

As I said before, this special is way better for several reasons.

We got MariChat! (Best side to the love square imo). This special actually had some semblance on a plot. Fei, whilst a bit op, was a cool character. It was nice to see Wang Cheng again.

However once again there were many problems.

A big one being Marinette yet again! (What a shock! 😒 I’ll come back to this). Another was that once again HM’s motivation has changed. How is getting the Prodigious gonna help bring back Emilie??

Back to Marinette… The fact that the words “Huh?! There must be some kind of mistake! I always know what's up with Adrien! … His 5 first names and every corresponding name date, his yearly schedule, even his shoe size! If there were anything to know about him, I would know it!” come out of her mouth whilst she is flipping through his schedule that she keeps in her pocketbook is a hugh red flag!!! That is not cute or adorable! That’s messed up and Adrien needs to fucking run and maybe possibly go into witness protection… Marinette is a full blown stalker! Not to mention the GPS she has (that could just be the find my friends app on iphone but still).

It also is extremely rude of her to use not only her great uncle’s birthday but also a lie about wanting to know her Chinese heritage in order to go to Shanghai to stalk her obsession, I mean crush. This could’ve been avoided if the Dupain-Chengs were going to Shanghai for the purpose of celebrating Wang Cheng’s bday and then Adrien just so happened to be in Shanghai.

Also this means LB left Paris without telling CN! I know CN did the same but again he can’t purify the akumas. Plus he has a reason he couldn’t stay in Paris, Mari just went cause her crush did. Great guardianship there Marinette.

This was also the last time CN actually did something. Even if it was for a short while before LB and her female partner took over (the beginning of a theme…)

Other things:

There are 2 other things that I wanna say but felt they needed a separate bit.

In Furious Fu, Su-Han has a rule book that he uses to tell Marinette which rules she has broken. At the end of the episode he tells her that is she breaks 1 more rule that he will take the Miraculous and the Miracle Box off her, which fair enough but wouldn’t it be helpful to leave the rule book with her?! How can she be wary of not breaking anymore rules when she doesn’t even know what the rules are??

Now the big one: Master Fu…

Where do I even start with him. He is so fucking manipulative!! He is Asian Dumbledore!

He decides to leave these extremely powerful jewels in the hands of 13 year olds! Surely leaving the miraculous to someone in their 20s would’ve been better!

He clearly favours LB over CN even though the Ladybug and Black Cat are supposed to be partners! Wouldn’t it make sense for them both to be in contact with the guardian from the start?? He randomly started introducing rules such as if LB and CN find out each other’s identities they would lose their miraculous… what kind of bullshit rule is that? It also came out of fucking nowhere!

Final Thoughts:

But to summarise all of that: Miraculous is on quite a steep decline but I’m invested at this point and I am genuinely curious as to where the fuck this will go.

Marinette needs professional fucking help before the writers even consider canonising Adrienette cause at the moment she is not what Adrien needs!

Adrien needs to stand up for himself! He needs to pull LB to the side and tell her what he feels and what he’s going through cause he is on the precipice of a breakdown!

(Small point that’s more to do with the fandom: when searching for fanfics it’s really annoying that Adrien Agreste/Chat Noir Bashing is a tag but Marinette Dupain-Cheng/Ladybug Bashing isn’t. Why does everyone think Marinette can do no wrong???)

[ruby-whistler]

Why c!Dream should (and probably will be) redeemed

Hi! I’m bad with intros. You’ve read the title, so, let’s start with the definitions.

In this essay, we are considering the popularized definition of “redemption” instead of the classical one, which is, as per the Oxford Dictionary, “the act of saving or state of being saved from the power of evil; the act of redeeming.” That’s not however the way the word is used in fandom and media.

/dsmp /rp

The definition of redemption I’ll be working with in this essay is not forgiveness by the people who c!Dream has hurt, nor is it removing himself entirely from his past actions, but moreso the decision to change for the better and abandon destructive mindsets for himself and others.

A “redemption” in a narrative sense would be circumstances and a character arc that would allow that kind of healing and betterment.

I’d like to start this off by the fact that being “irredeemable”, in this sense, also doesn’t exist; redemption is a thing of conditions and choice, not of being allowed by someone else. You can’t gatekeep healing from people who seek it, just to be clear, and that even goes for people who have done terrible things.

Since I understand there is a lot of concern for c!Dream’s past actions, here is a post from people who are much more fit than me to speak on the matter, about the way in which they see a possible c!Dream redemption arc.

Another disclaimer, I am not going to be considering c!Dream only from the perspective of c!Tommy in this essay. c!Dream appears in other people’s perspectives and he himself has his own, unseen perspective. As a character, he is an individual person in his own right rather than just the antagonist of c!Tommy’s story, and so I do not have much concern for their narratives intertwining too much should this writing choice occur.

I’d also like to note that redemption is, in this sense, always a positive thing for everyone involved - someone who’s been prone to doing bad things in the past deciding not to do them anymore and try to change, or just simply heal enough to consider it, isn’t going to have a long-term negative effect in any of the characters, but rather the other way around. Healing is an unlimited resource, and the victims do not have to heal first for the person who hurt them to consider being better.

Here’s a well-written thread on Twitter that elaborates a bit to finish off this point, and let’s move on to actually talking about redemption in the context of the Dream SMP, and c!Dream specifically.

Why a c!Dream redemption arc is not only a good writing choice, but in this case the only good writing choice;

c!Dream, as we all know, has been subject to mental and physical abuse to the point of straight up torture by both c!Sam and c!Quackity (to different extents). He has been in indescribable amounts of suffering for the past 74 days at the time this essay will be published. That is six and something times the duration of the entire exile arc in canon.

Whatever the interpretation of his words in prison is, what is undeniable is first of all the fact his mental stability is absolutely crushed at this point, second that no human being could possibly ever deserve to undergo this, and third, his stay in the prison is showing off his humanity and making him out to be sympathetic.

Now, consider this; how would it feel if c!Tommy died at the end of the exile arc? Empty, there would be no catharsis to such an end, especially because of all of the hurt he’d gone through. Objectively, a bad writing choice.

Let’s compare, narratively of course, this situation to the prison arc. Even though I would never say one of them is “better” or “worse” than the other, since both are terrible and undeserved, c!Dream’s current state checks off all of the boxes that would make his death unsatisfying in the storyline; even if people want him gone, there would still be the dissatisfaction at the current build-up and why they even did it in the first place (it really wasn’t necessary to anyone else’s story to make him out as a victim, and yet they did) if they were planning to kill him off anyways. And since the prison arc is naturally meant to induce sympathy, even from an angst perspective it would simply not make sense within the themes and writing of the plot.

So, c!Dream can’t die, and he also can’t stay in the prison forever - the build-up must lead to something, which is logically a breakout. Great… what now?

Well, the Dream SMP prides itself in accurate representation of trauma and mental instability, specifically cc!Tommy and cc!Dream who have pulled it off incredibly during the exile arc.

Now, undoubtedly, after the prison, c!Dream is going to be just terribly traumatized- considering the writers’ past creative decisions, would it make sense for him to play the role of a dangerous, heartless villain in other people’s stories, while completely ignoring the logical fallout of what he’s been through?

In my mind, no. The most possible result is that cc!Dream is going to rightfully portray someone who’s been hurt so much he is broken, scared and tortured into submissions over months of agony and slowly stripping away of his agency, his dignity, his humanity. And that is… not going to be pretty, nor is he going to be in any way the same as before.

After everything, I’d be surprised if he can properly look at shears without shaking. That’s not villain behaviour, that’s the behaviour of someone who needs help.

Which leads me to another point, which is relatability. Believe me or not, there are people out there who heavily relate to c!Dream because they have been through things that allow them to see themselves in the character - abandonment, mental illness, etc. - or who have had destructive mindsets they have struggled to let go of in the past.

To them, as well as to the viewer, redeeming c!Dream could actually be a very good example, showcasing that anyone who has done bad things or has been hurt in the past can learn that it is possible to be better, to move on, to not be stuck in a loop but to actively seek help and then use that support to find the path to healing.

Making c!Dream a better person, who in a way, wins over his past, over his trauma, over the hurt he’s caused, and manages to actually get better… is inspiring, in a sense. It shows that you can abandon unhealthy mindsets, you can find a support group of people who care about you, you can make your life better simply by deciding to be better and then sticking to that, no matter how difficult the process.

This is why I believe that redeeming c!Dream would not be bad writing, but quite the opposite, and that the prison arc is an obvious set-up. Alright, but how does that work with the character? How could someone so widely hated mentally improve in such a seemingly violent and terrible environment? Would it even make sense within the context of c!Dream’s character so far? Well,

Why c!Dream has the capacity for healing and the Dream SMP the ability to provide it;

First of all, let’s remind ourselves that through c!Dream’s entire spiral he wasn’t ever directly given a chance to change. He was regarded as someone to defeat in order to accomplish a happy ending, or as someone who needed to be removed in order to achieve power on the SMP. Ever since the 16th, which is when the corruption of the character is the most obvious, there have been no attempts to reach out or to help him. I do not blame the characters for this - I am simply pointing out that since it has never happened before, we do not know how he would respond, and that, after everything he’s been through, any bit of kindness or compassion towards him will be a new concept he will have to learn to deal with somehow.

This point is especially driven home by the fact that both c!Quackity and c!Sam would often tell him he is a monster who deserves nothing but to suffer, and that what he’s going through is never going to amount to all the hurt he’s caused - basically removing any possibility for ever getting better (because by this logic, he doesn’t deserve support, and he doesn’t deserve to get better) from his line of sight.

He also hasn’t had a support system since shortly after the 16th, when his friends left him over c!George’s dethronement and made no effort to mend their relationship afterwards. c!Dream isn’t used to having allies and people on his side, but to being hated; again, wouldn’t that mean positive reinforcement could very well be all he needs to make the choice?

His bad mindsets - attachments are weakness, ends always justify the means, people will consider you a bad person no matter what you do - have been continuously proven right by his environment, even in prison. Any kind of subversion, plus an explanation as to why they are wrong, could be of great help to c!Dream.

Just another disclaimer; I do not believe c!Dream would change thanks to the treatment in prison, but rather despite it. His mental stability is non-existent at that point, and in order to get better he needs genuine emotional support from the people around him as well as to heal before he can redeem himself.

Alright, but��� c!Dream has hurt a lot of people. Who would be fit to help him?

Let’s start off with the worst option and why it’s impossible the writers would even attempt this; c!Tommy.

c!Tommy has no responsibility to help or ever forgive c!Dream - not to say he could. The two, as it is, would drag each other down instead of helping in any capacity, and only make matters worse. The two of them shouldn’t even interact in the best case scenario - the best thing for both of them would be if they got enough healing and support individually that they could live around each other and not get their trauma or toxic habits triggered when interacting for whatever purpose of the plot.

So, if not c!Tommy (and c!Tubbo neither by extension), who could redeem c!Dream?

Well, he can’t do it on his own for sure. Being in nature with animals is nice, but further isolation from other people would merely help with the prison trauma, not with the state of his tendencies when interacting with others. He, once again, needs positive reinforcement from other people for him to heal properly.

There are two main options for this in my mind, and then there’s a few individuals he could also find comfort in, including people from both groups or those unaligned.

1) Kinoko Kingdom

From the people of this new country, c!Dream has never negatively interacted with c!Karl before, he has never hurt c!George and he hasn’t directly harmed c!Sapnap. Although the relationship with his old friend group could be difficult to rekindle, none of them have grudges against him that are too personal, and they have been canonically close friends since the beginning of the SMP, so it would be very much possible to rebuild burnt bridges. They’d be familiar, and with the addition of c!Karl they could be a good source of comfort for c!Dream after he either breaks out or is released from prison - just gotta convince c!Sapnap not to kill him first.

2) The Syndicate

From the Syndicate, c!Dream has never directly interacted with c!Nikki, and from what I know of her character she never seemed to be very affected by his actions - even doing his work for him when he was planning to burn down the L’Mantree. c!Techno is an ally who doesn’t have anything against him, and as for c!Ranboo, here is why I believe c!Dream being in the Syndicate could be positively influential on his character arc as well;

c!Ranboo and c!Philza have had a conversation about change, during which c!Ranboo made it clear he thinks everyone can change except for c!Dream; who, in his mind, is “too deep down the rabbit hole”. c!Philza replied that he thinks anyone can change if given enough time.

… you see what I’m getting at?

c!Dream has been implied to be an ally to c!Ranboo’s enderwalk state (or the state when he has access to his full memory), and hence would most likely not behave negatively towards him at all. While it might make it more difficult for c!Ranboo to deal with his own issues, it might also give him more motivation to get to the bottom of it as well, especially since he now has access to the person who, presumably, started this all. While this is going on, c!Dream would show himself in a much different light than c!Ranboo sees himin, which could lead to confusion, realization of the flaws in his own logic, and hence, positive character development.

Here’s a great post about why c!Techno as a character could be a great asset in c!Dream’s healing process & redemption, and why there is not much need to worry about him not knowing or finding out about c!Dream’s actions.

Of Kinoko Kingdom and the Syndicate, as far as I know, neither c!Tommy nor c!Tubbo have ever been directly involved with these groups, nor are they planning to.

Another important point to make is that, while c!Tommy needs to be kept away from c!Dream in order to heal properly, the same goes for c!Quackity and c!Sam in c!Dream’s case. While c!Quackity has high chances to interact with either Kinoko Kingdom or the Syndicate in the future, there’s an even higher chance, in that situation, that c!Dream would be offered protection, which is also important; there is no healing from trauma without the knowledge of safety, to some degree.

So, this was an essay as to why I think c!Dream’s recovery and redemption (one needs to come before the other, naturally) is not only extremely possible but also could be pulled off well and have a positive impact on both the characters, and the audience.