#strength training in Reno

[serviceandstuff001]

Strength Training vs. Cardio: Which Is Better for Your Fitness Goals

When it comes to achieving your fitness goals, both strength training and cardio offer significant benefits, but understanding which one is better for you depends on what you're aiming to accomplish. Whether you live in Reno or anywhere else, knowing the pros and cons of each will help you design an effective workout plan.

Strength Training: Building Muscle and Endurance

Strength training is focused on building muscle mass, increasing strength, and improving overall body composition. Here are a few key benefits:

Boosts metabolism: The more muscle you have, the more calories your body burns at rest.

Increases strength: Regular strength training builds endurance and power, helping you perform daily activities more easily.

Improves bone density: Weight-bearing exercises improve bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Enhances posture and balance: Strength training targets muscle imbalances and helps prevent injuries.

If you're looking to reshape your body and build long-term strength, strength training in Reno offers a wide range of options from personal trainers to group classes at top-notch gyms like Sports West Athletic Club.

Cardio: Improving Heart Health and Burning Calories

Cardio exercises focus on improving your heart and lung capacity. It’s great for burning calories quickly and boosting endurance. Here are some benefits of cardio:

Increases cardiovascular health: Regular cardio reduces the risk of heart disease and improves blood circulation.

Burns fat: Cardio workouts are effective for burning calories and losing weight.

Improves mood: Cardio helps release endorphins, reducing stress and boosting mental health.

Enhances stamina: Consistent cardio improves endurance, allowing you to work out for longer periods.

Cardio activities like running, swimming, or cycling are great for those looking to improve their cardiovascular health and burn calories fast.

Strength Training vs. Cardio: Which One is Best for You?

For weight loss: Cardio is excellent for immediate calorie burn, but strength training is crucial for long-term fat loss by boosting your metabolism.

For building muscle: Strength training is your best bet, as it focuses on muscle development and strength gains.

For overall health: Combining both strength training and cardio provides a balanced fitness routine, improving heart health while building muscle.

For the best fitness results, it’s ideal to combine strength training and cardio into your routine. If you’re searching for the perfect place to pursue both in Reno, check out Sports West Athletic Club. They offer a wide variety of strength training in Reno, personal trainers, and cardio-focused sessions to help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether you’re new to working out or a seasoned athlete, Sports West provides everything you need for a balanced and effective workout. Visit them today and start transforming your fitness journey!

[cherubfae]

𝔣𝔞𝔳𝔬𝔯𝔦𝔱𝔢 𝔭𝔬𝔰𝔦𝔱𝔦𝔬𝔫𝔰 || {𝔣𝔦𝔫𝔞𝔩 𝔣𝔞𝔫𝔱𝔞𝔰𝔶}

ft. Gladiolus, Ignis, Noctis, Prompto, Sephiroth, Reno, Zack, & Cloud

tags: nsfw, smut, gn!afab!reader, established relationships, masturbation, oral, size kink, strength kink, comfort/loving, creampie, rough sex, biting, breeding kink, i tried researching lmao

Gladiolus: The Clasp

Anything that lets him show off his strength! He likes being your big, strong protector and using his body as a tool to his advantage. He's so much bigger than you, his shadow often dwarfs your own, a reminder that he will always keep you safe.

Instructing you to wrap your arms tight around his neck, he smiles when your eyes meet his. Slick cock sliding against your hole, bumping against your sweet spot, he pushes into you slow and deep. With your legs around his waist, Gladio grips you tightly, groaning as he bottoms out inside of you.

He is so strong and his stamina is something to shudder at. If you want to top him, he's all for it! He just really enjoys you handing over the reigns and letting him not only show off but to please you in every way that you deserve! Gladiolus loves being able to fuck himself into you when you're pressed up against the nearest wall, laughing at how your little hole clenched around his thick cock. He nips and kisses at your throat, eager to feel you cum around him. It makes him absolutely ache.

Ignis: Missionary

For the most part, Ignis likes to keep things pretty simple and routine. That's not to say he doesn't enjoy other positions, but missionary gives him the best view of you. He loves being able to dote on you, to see your reactions close-up, and learn what exactly makes you tick.

When he's feeling especially needy, he makes you hold your thighs to your chest with his hand. His intense eyes fixate on where his cock meets your hole, transfixed on the way your body so eagerly sucking his tip in, begging to pull him in deeper.

His voice gets really husky when he's close, his accent thick, almost growling out of pure lust. Ignis lives to praise you, intertwining your hands and begging to cum together.

Noctis: The Butterfly

Being the one on bottom can sometimes make him really shy, so he prefers to be on top! Noctis is a service top through and through. If he's really tired but still really needs you and wants you both to get off, Noctis is pretty partial to the spooning position. It's just sooo easy for him to slip into your hole from behind. Letting his hands rub and stroke any part of your skin he can reach, littering the back of your neck with hickies, panting hotly, eyes trained on how well you take his cock.

When he has a bit more energy, he loves using the butterfly position! With your ass hanging off the edge of the bed, your legs propped up on his shoulders. He's sweet, stroking the soft skin of your thighs, losing himself completely; rutting into your hole with even, smooth thrusts.

Noctis isn't super vocal, mostly soft grunts and pleased sighs, but you can easily tell when he is feeling really good. How his head tilts back, mouth open in a low groan, and his blunt fingernails dig into the meat of your thighs. He lovessss the sound of the freaking bed beneath his thrusts and loves being able to make you feel good too!

Prompto: Cowgirl

Honestly, he's good with anything!! Sweet baby just prefers to be able to see your face! Prompto needs it like he needs air to breathe. He's certainly not opposed to positions like doggy, being able to jump himself into you from behind is great, it can just make him feel disconnected if he's not able to see your face or your reactions.

He wants to know that he's doing okay! That you're not in any pain or discomfort! Sex with him will be loving and fun. And while not opposed to quickies, Prompto would rather be able to take his time with you. He doesn't like calling it fucking, because that's not what you two are doing.

Prompto gets really whiny and whimpery. He's a very vocal man. Unable to control his soft moan when you sink down on his cock, cheeks ablaze, his hands flying to grip your waist firmly. It not only helps keep you balanced when you ride him, but also helps keep him tethered to reality. That you're real and this is really happening. That he gets to make love to you.

He also doesn't mind helping you carry the burden by keeping your thighs parted in his strong grip, thrusting into you from below in a cowgirl's helper pose. Last thing he wants is you sore in a not fun way :((

Cowgirl allows him to look at your face all he wishes with his back resting on the pillows. At any moment if you're too tired or if your leg starts cramping, he'll flip you two over (without pulling out if he can do so), and lie you back against soft sheets. Missionary is also pretty great too.(:

Sephiroth: Doggy-Style

Biter. He is possessive, a biter. A claimer. There's something so hot about having you face-down on the bed, white-knuckling the sheets as Sephiroth pounds into you from behind. He has a massive creampie kink and he's not gonna stop filling your hole until he is completely satisfied.

He's gonna fuck his cum back inside of you with his fingers, spreading his seed all around your hole. Nipping at your shoulder, he slams himself into you, using his strong weight to keep you pinned to the bed relishing in the sounds of your desperate moans and the bed wildly creaking; the headboard snapping against the wall hard enough to chip the paint.

If you're lucky, perhaps he'll decide to breed you, whether or not you're physically able to carry his child or not. He's gonna make you take every load you have to offer.

Reno: The Tight Squeeze

This man exudes switch energy and he's pretty versatile when it comes to the bedroom! Before doing anything, he loves oral. Reno thinks it's so fucking hot when he works his tongue over you, lapping over your sweet spots. His fingers dig into your thighs, keeping you pinned to the bed. He's messy, sloppily making out with your most intimate parts. He's gonna make you cum on his tongue before he even thinks about sinking his cock inside of you.

Moving you into the position he'd like most, Reno lies you down your tummy. Pressing his weight against your back, his hands rest on top of yours. Kisses soft like butterfly wings press along your shoulder; loving and sweet. Slowly he pushes himself inside of you from behind. Your legs remain straight while his legs are slightly spread, framing the backs of your thighs. Every thrust is sensual and deep, molding you to the shape of his thick cock.

Zack: Speed Bump

It's a lot like doggy style but has you lying down on your tummy with a pillow beneath your hips. The last thing Zack wants is for either of you to accidentally strain a muscle when trying to make the other feel good.

Warm hands stroke your back, settling down at the base of your spine just above your buttocks. Weepy cock slides between your cheeks, getting you nice and wet for him, his hips dropping a few inches lower to sink himself into your main hole.

It depends on his mood but he can be loud or he can be more quiet, letting subtle whimpers fall from his cute, kiss-bitten lips. His mind feels like putty, only able to focus on grasping handfuls of your ass and thrusting you backwards onto his dick. If he's not careful, he's gonna cum all too soon.

Cloud: The Rocking Horse

Not really one to have a preference, Cloud can be pretty fluid. One day he might prefer missionary to doggy-style, and then another he'll lose himself with you sitting on his lap facing him with his cock buried as deep as it can go. He's rather smug with how you gasp and whine at his neck, stroking your naked skin. Cloud adores the close skinship, just being able to snuggle close.

He likes how intimate it is. Allowing him to hone on how warm you are. Every clench of your hole around his cock and soft, breathy whimper. He definitely doesn't mind taking things slow especially after that initial first stretch of his cock rubbing along your walls. He gives you all the time you may need to adjust. With his hands on your waist, Cloud slowly rolls his hips against yours holding you close. A featherlight touch traces patterns over your body, marking an invisible map.

It's also the easiest way for him to pull you into a kiss. Sex needs to be slow and intimate for him sometimes. A breather. He wants to be able to take his time, to touch you all over, because he knows sooner rather than later; you always end up milking his cock so, so good. He's also a big fan of cockwarming.

|| ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴇ ᴅᴏɴ'ᴛ ʀᴇᴘᴏꜱᴛ, ʀᴇᴜꜱᴇ, ᴏʀ ᴇᴅɪᴛ ᴍʏ ᴡᴏʀᴋꜱ ɪɴ ᴀɴʏ ᴡᴀʏ! ɪ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ɢɪᴠᴇ ᴘᴇʀᴍɪꜱꜱɪᴏɴ. ᴛᴜᴍʙʟʀ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏɴʟʏ ꜱɪᴛᴇ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ ɪ ᴘᴏꜱᴛ. ᴀʟʟ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀꜱ ʙᴇʟᴏɴɢ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ʀɪɢʜᴛꜰᴜʟ ᴏᴡɴᴇʀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ʙᴇʟᴏɴɢꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇ © ᴄʜᴇʀᴜʙꜰᴀᴇ 2024 ||

[cherry-romper]

What they're like

+ Kafka, Reno, Iharu, Haruichi, Aoi, Hoshina, Gen

Kafka;

What a fucking himbo

Is so incredibly dedicated to his dream it's so admirable but can be a yapper about it - mostly to do with Kaiju anatomy, his yap sessions end with everyone scrambling to take notes.

Isn't aware of how much people respect and care for him.

Sometimes can be a little overbearing, he DOES NOT have an inside voice. Reno and you often keeps him in check but he insists he's not talking loud.

Tells the DUMBEST jokes: "What two words, when combined, hold the most letters?" Then he'd piss himself telling everyone it's "post office"

Is unaware of his improving strength and tends to expect things to be heavier than they are and ends up launching things across a room.

Sometimes gets withdrawals from quitting cigarettes, especially after a stressful day and can get kinda irritable, but being around you and his friends helps curb the cravings. 

Reno;

Opinionated, always willing to give out advice but doesn't often give it without being asked.

Loves doing things for people. Will go out of his way get people stuff if they need it but also knows how to put himself first.

Often quiet in social situations, more of a people watcher than pleaser

Very focused of improving, you can often find him in the training room or library when he has free time

Pushes people to do their best.

Is so down to help people if they ask him no matter what it is.

Once he's started something he'll see it through no matter what.

He's stubborn to a fault

Iharu;

Hot headed but level headed

Easy to talk to, but often only talks about work - kinda to be expected.

Lightens up every room he's in

Doesn't like to see his comrades down in the dumps so will try his hardest to put a smile on their faces

The hypeman of all hypemen

Smart asf, doesn't need help studying but is so down for group study sessions

Can be quite envious of others constantly improving, sometimes you'll find him staring off Into space thinking about improving, lost in deep thought - often he won't even notice you till you shake him out of it, he will shout at you for "not announcing" yourself.

 Can be quite flirty on and off the field but mostly when his adrenaline is pumping. Back and forth banter and teasing insults do something to him.

Haruichi;

Rich boy with really good manners

Cares about his comrades and treats them to meals when they all have the time

Has a skincare and haircare routine

Sleeps with a silk pillow

Absolutely loves having little rivalries with people, it pushes him to be a better fighter.

Completely dedicated to the force but the reservations about his family and the company he'll inherit one day sometimes hold him back from giving his all.

Takes mental notes on how the suits could be improved while he's fighting.

Aoi;

Built like a brick.

Abs like a washboard.

As dense as his body is, he's very agile and quick to move.

Heaviest footsteps known to man

He absolutely loves his peace and quiet, though he's used to having to share his space and time.

Is big on respect but it's something he believes should be earned and not given.

Being ex-military, he's BIG on routines. Doesn't realise he even has one but you've noticed his little patterns.

Light sleeper, but quick to fall asleep. Once his head hits the pillow he is OUT.

Hoshina;

Is terrifying when he's serious and knows it. He loves pretending to be serious to scare people, he finds their reactions hilarious. 

Finds everything funny. Will laugh just to fill silence. 

Always smiling, its almost uncanny. 

Loves his comrades but isn't one to admit that. 

Sometimes he'll go quiet in social situations and just watch everyone messing around, those little moments are his favourite and he treasures them.

Will linger over peoples shoulders when they're studying then make disappointed faces at their work, known nothing they wrote is wrong, he just finds it funny that he made them paranoid. 

Narumi;

Will only give you the time of day if you're good. If you're average or below when it comes to combat, he will not even know your name.

Egotistical beyond comprehension. 

Cocky and sarcastic, gets away with talking back because he's the strongest. 

Adores back and forth teasing. If you can match him in combat he expects you to match him in wit too. 

Finds comfort in his own mess, reminds him he's still alive (he's just lazy)

Likes making little nooks/nests out of pillows to sleep/game in. Also a big fan of pillow forts.

[kaijunouhhhhhhhhhhummmm]

Share With Me

4.4k/ Reader pov x soshiro build up/ reader has a big family/ it's chaotic but in a good way/ some drama with soshiro/  angy soshiro/ trying my darndest to be gn with my reader POV but im sure i missed somethin/ i guess hurt and comfort?/ where are all my ppl with loud and invasive families at haha

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Soshiro has yelled before. “Get those legs up!” “More! C’mon I know you got more in you!” “Ten more reps then we’ll call it a day!” all commands in training or shouting orders when on a mission. Sure, he’s yelled and shouted at all of you a whole lot. But always in your best interest. For your protection, strength, encouragement, to make you better. But this time was different. 

It got very silent after he did. This time he wasn't shouting from his usual place of care. He was angry. Almost menacing even. Worse, it was directed at you. 

You dropped your staff in the middle of armed combat training. It happens. Not a big deal. Usually. People drop staffs, swords, guns, all the time and then everyone corrects form and  moves on. Not today. 

You’re frozen in place. For the first time you find yourself afraid of the vice captain. There is always the knowledge that he could kill you if he really wanted to. He is extremely talented and could take a whole school of trainees. Of course. There is the reverence of his ability at all times. But to feel like it could be used against you? You’ve never felt fear quite like that sink into your bones. You’re sure your skin has gone pale and your basic bodily functions like breathing and heartbeat faltered. Everyone else feels it too. His eyes, a brilliant violet, are staring into yours and you can't move. The strength you were using a moment ago vanishes.The tension in his body seems ready to pounce on you. What did you do wrong? You couldn't understand. You go through all your movements in your head. Everyone drops fighting props. What did you do wrong? He berated you infront of everyone and internally you're doing it to yourself now too.

Kafka breaks the silence in the room and the panic in your head. “Hey, uh, vice captain, I’ll work with them.” He puts his hand on your shoulder and with a tug pulls you out of your frozen state and guides you away from Soshiro’s glare to a far corner of the gymnasium. Soshiro doesn't argue and you feel his eyes on the both of you as you’re guided away. The tension is still heavy in the air as you both walk. 

Practice continues quietly and with hesitancy from everyone as they avoid being on the receiving end of any more of his ire. You can feel eyes on you and murmurs of “Shit, that was intense.” “They okay?” “I wouldn't be.” You're still shaking a bit as Kafaka tries to guide you through the movements. A pitying look on his face you're half grateful for. You’re still trying to figure out what happened. What did you do that was so incorrect? Maybe something you did before this? 

“Hey.” Kafka’s low soft voice snaps you back from your spiral again. “Keep your eyes on me okay?” 

You nod trying to steel your nerves but you’re too afraid to look back at the vice captain. God, you think you’re going to cry actually. His anger is so frightening but more so is the thought of disappointing him. Kafka is fighting you with the same gentleness he would use on a kitten. 

Practice ends and your friends practically run to you. You're grateful for the shield they provide as you all put your weapons away and leave the gym. You still don't dare to look at the vice captain. Embarrassed, hurt and tired you let them guide you to the cafeteria. 

“Okay what the fuck was that?” Iharu asks once you're all out of earshot from Soshiro. 

“Yeah, that was a bit much.” Reno says.

“A bit? It was uncalled for.” Kikoru says, noticeably upset. “Don’t get me wrong. I’m all for berating people when it's called for but (y/n) wasn't doing anything wrong. We all drop our staff sometimes.” 

“Yeah, especially during sparring.” says Reno

“You didn't do anything to piss him off before training did ‘ya?” Iharu asks you.

“No? I don't think so?” It's not like you havent been thinking about it. It's all youve been thinking about. What did you do that was so wrong? 

“Hey, even if they did, that kind of reaction is uncalled for.” Kikoru says.

“She’s right.” Reno says. “Even if (y/n) had, vice captain still has to be mindful of how he carries out punishment. Obviously after he did that it affected morale.”

“Was he acting a bit off to any of you before training started?” Kikoru asks. 

“Nah, I didn't notice anything.” Iharu says. 

“What else is new?” Reno remarks. 

“Hey!” Iharu says, punching Renos arm. 

“Yeah, way to have self awareness, Iharu.” Kikoru adds. 

You all laugh at Iharu’s expense and his many failed objections to having some level of self awareness. 

Kafka sighs “I don't know what that was but I bet it's got nothing to do with you, yeah?” he rests a heavy arm over your shoulders as you all reach the cafeteria. “At least you won't be here for the rest of the week.”

“Oh yeah, your big family gathering and all.” Iharu pinches your arm.

That brings a smile to your face. You haven't seen your family in months, much less extended family and you're excited to have some home cooking and for your parents to buy your dinners for you when you all go sightseeing. You appreciate your friends so much for trying to make you feel better. A family away from your own. Kafka is probably right. Maybe something did happen to Soshiro before training. It still stung though. 

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Five days go by in a very turbulent cyclone of hugs, sometimes the bear kind, kisses, hand shaking, other times straight up picking you up and shaking your whole body greetings. “Cousin!” “Sister!” “Mom!” “Uncle!” “Dad!” “Look at you! You’re real strong now, huh?” “Can we fight?” “How many kaiju have you killed?” “Any cute guys you got your eye on?” “Do you travel a lot?” “Do you get to keep body parts?” “Where can I get their body parts?” “Gross.” “I bet it's fun.” “I bet it's gross.” “Stop talking about it. I hate thinking about my baby in that situation.” “They arent your baby anymore!” “Yeah they are. Just a bigger baby now.” And on and on like that constantly for days. It doesn't particularly end at night either. 

You’ve all gathered at your grandfather's house managing to squeeze something like 15 people (with more coming and going) into four bedrooms, two living rooms, four closets and some even camping in the kitchen. Still more come for dinners and outings but do not stay the night. At night you can hear your mother and aunts cackle and chat about old boyfriends, girlfriends, some information you could have gone your whole life not hearing about your uncles and who in the family died recently. They talk outside for hours and still get up before everyone else to make breakfast. Your uncles outside talking about work and how their jobs are treating them. Maybe find new contacts through each other. Not everyone could take the time off for the reunion. Some come and go for work. Some drop by for lunch. Some relatives you only see briefly, some you spend the whole week with. Your grandfather half heartedly watching the kids with your other grandfather. Your afternoons with your cousins are left chatting about who's dating who, who's going to work where, accepted to what school, marrying someone here, going on a trip elsewhere. 

Long walks, shopping trips, hikes, several grocery runs, long drives, sleeping in cramped seats, lots of cleaning after dinner, arguing about bathroom order. You figure every single minute was used for something. It feels like a lof once you reflect on it but it's familiar and comforting even if stressful at times. Finding the quiet moments to speak in the silence of a tired house late at night are some of the best conversations you ever have. They happen in bedrooms, on the patio, in the backyard, in the kitchen, outside past the gate on the sidewalk, the bathroom. Whispers of gossip, your aunt's new young boyfriend, your cousin's way too expensive car that has your aunt shake her head when mentioned. Tense moments that are forced to pass, laughter that hurts your sides when you breathe, honestly that brings some to cry, reminiscing of days that make everyone silent and listen intently. Understanding this is passed wisdom you may not get the chance to hear again. Sometimes this all happens at once in the same room.

Your mom announces she wants to have a big dinner tonight since most of your family will leave the following day. All day all hands are helping cook, clean, shop, set tables, chairs, speakers, putting on makeup, doing hair, choosing outfits and shopping some more.

Finally everyone is in for the evening and once again settling down for long conversations, drinking, playing games, eating and dancing. You are often on your feet getting this for that uncle, helping an aunt with that, giving a cousin this, talking to grandma about some other thing you haven't thought about since you were eight. 

You finally get a chance to sit at a crowded table breathing in for a moment. So many family and friends showed up that the dinner had to spill out to the patio from inside. Then more friends and family arrived and then it spilled out into the front yard. All the young, too cool teens in the backyard, your cousins closer to your age crowded around you talking, well, more like yelling but that's just how they speak. Your older aunts and uncles half singing half telling stories to laugh at each other too. Some others helping set up hanging lights on the trees. Soshiro casually speaking with one of your uncles by the gate. The kids chase each other with toys or beg for a water slide. 

Wait.

Soshiro casually speaking with your uncle by the front gate?

No, you weren't drinking unlike your other cousins so you definitely were not imagining Soshiro casually holding a conversation with your uncle. Now one of your aunts is walking towards him with a drink. Oh god what is going on. 

You shoot up to your feet and try as fast as you can to get to him but have to shove past chairs and tables set tightly by each other. Push by family standing and talking. Squeeze around others carrying food and barely managing not to trip past spatially challenged adults and children. 

“Vice captain!” You shout although you don't mean to be so loud but you are still not convinced this is really happening. You’re actually not sure if you didn't drink something earlier while being tossed around for chores and taking a sip from anything to quench your thirst and forgot. 

Soshiro turns to you with his usual unreadable expression. He’s holding what looks like orange soda in his hand. “Hello (y/n). I hope you don't mind my intrusion but I really wanted to talk to you-”

“(y/n)! Why didn't you say you were going to have guests come today?” your aunt that handed him his drink asks.

“I didn't know I had any.” you say to her confused, worried, and maybe a little embarrassed. “I’m sorry I wasn't expecting anyone from the division to show up. What are you doing here?” you ask him. A million scenarios of how this evening could go horribly wrong play out. You're suddenly very self conscious. 

Before Soshiro can say anything you see one of your uncles walk towards you and give you both a look. You know that look. It's the look every family member in the history of family has always given when they are about to ask the dreaded question. You are too late to stop him from asking: “Boyfriend?” 

“NO!” you shout just as the word comes out of his mouth. But now you’ve managed to attract everyone's attention within earshot. You hope the music drowned out your uncle asking that. You dare a quick look at Soshiro’s face but it's unmoving. Thank god he's always had such a good poker face. 

Cousins begin to walk up “Hey, there (y/n)’s friend that is definitely not a boyfriend! What's your name?” 

This is gonna be a long evening. 

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You're both sitting next to each other. It's been something like three hours and they have not stopped asking Soshiro questions. It's not everyday a famous kaiju killing officer shows up to a family gathering. You’re exhausted from trying to protect Soshiro from evasive questions but he takes it all in stride. He answers all questions promptly and gives just the right amount of information. He’s so tactful with your rude family it's admirable. There's no point in you telling them not to ask something because Soshiro has already responded. You stop trying to stop it. He's perfectly trained in combat and intrusive family conversation too it seems.

“So vice captain, is (y/n) any good at what they do?” a cousin asks with a baby on his lap. 

You’re about to say something but then remember the last training session you had with your division. You’re actually not so certain yourself. 

“(y/n) has exceeded all of my expectations.” he turns to you. “I couldn't have asked for a better officer to be in my platoon.” 

You search his face for a clue of him joking or waiting for a punchline. But his smile is sincere. You want to be moved by his response but you think he's probably just trying to make you look good in front of your family. 

Your cousins murmur their comments of approval among themselves. “Hey, vice captain, would you like something else to drink?” one of your cousins asks from further down the table. 

“Please, I’ll get my own drink. Don't trouble yourself.” he stands and turns to you. “Would you like anything?” 

You're still not quite sure what to make of all of this. A refill is not really a thought you're having. 

“(y/n) probably wants some of the cake we have at the table by the drinks.” someone else chimes in. 

“I can get that myself.” you do want the cake but having your superior serve you is too weird to handle. You start to get up from your chair when he interjects. 

“It's okay. I’m happy to. Enjoy your time with your family.” he says smiling then scooting past everyone towards the drink table.

“He’s nice.” “Yeah, I figured defense force officers were kinda meat heads, you know?” “He has real good manners.” “He's sitting so straight.” “I didn't know they made them like that anymore.” your cousins comment. 

One of them shoves your shoulder playfully. “He’s super cute!” she gestures to Soshiro speaking with your lively little cousin swinging a stick like a sword. “Why didn't you say you were inviting someone?” 

“I didn't.” you continue to watch him making sure nobody is being rude towards him. Who knows how this is going to affect your job if your family does something offensive or stupid. 

“He just showed up?” 

“Yeah. I mean I have to report where I’m going to be but I didn't invite anyone.” 

“He just wanted to show up?” another cousin asks. 

You nod. They give knowing looks to each other. 

“What?” you ask firmly. Who knows what mischievous things they're communicating with each other telepathically it seems. “Don't say anything stupid in front of him please.”

“Hey, we aren't gonna have you lose your job.”

“Does he do this a lot? Just show up to officers' houses unannounced?” your cousin who asked about inviting him wonders. She has a tone that you can tell is heading this conversation somewhere you don't want it to. 

You sigh irritated. “It’s not like that.” 

“Why not?” another cousin asks. 

Some of them are giggling now. They are enjoying this excruciating line of questions. 

“Because.” you say wanting this conversation to end before he comes back. 

“Are you not allowed to date superiors?” 

“No- I- well, I don't know.” You shake your head frustrated that they're leading you on the exact conversation you're trying to avoid. “It doesn't matter, okay! It’s not going to happen!” 

“Do you want it to?” someone further down the table asks. You had no idea the conversation had reached that far down. You can feel your face start to burn and you don't want to give them anymore ammo. It's time to make your escape before they realize your face is a giveaway. 

You stand up. “I’m gonna check on him.” you begin to walk away and some of them start to whistle a love song, giggle or whisper little comments. They definitely saw your face turn red. 

You get to Soshiro as he was about to head back to the table. He's holding your cake and his drink “You mind if I eat that somewhere else? It's getting stuffy at the table.” 

Soshiro smiles, not looking eager to return to his interrogation. “Sure. I’ll follow your lead.” 

“Let's go out to the sidewalk.” You both begin to walk towards the gate. You wish you could shrink your head into your body like a turtle. The looks you both are getting as you walk out is enough to make you want to disappear. 

You give a long exhale when you're both finally out the gate. You lean against the wall that borders your grandfathers home. The music and noise from the party faded considerably behind the brick. Soshiro hands you your food. 

“Thank you for getting this for me.” 

“Of course.” he takes a drink from his cup. 

“It's been such a whirlwind I didn't ask you why you're here.” you cut a smaller piece of cake to eat. 

“You did. Earlier. I just didn't get a chance to respond.” 

You stop chewing. “I did?” 

A smile grows on his face. “Yes. But I understand. I’m so sorry for showing up like this. I just needed to speak with you about last week.” 

“Last week?” 

He nods. A pained expression taking over his face. He places his cup down on the sidewalk. “(y/n),-” he faces you with a determined look. His voice is serious. You tense up not sure why he suddenly had to put his cup down for whatever he's about to do. For a moment you think hes going to kick your ass for having such a loud fucking family. He bows. “Please forgive me for my extremely rude behavior.” 

Your brain stops. “What?” is all you manage to squeak out. 

He rises up. He’s looking down but you can tell from his face that he means this. “Last week. I lashed out at you. It was uncalled for. I immediately regretted it after it happened.” 

You think for a second, still trying to catch up to the fact that Soshiro Hoshina just bowed to you. Then you remember. “Oh!” 

He gives you a look that says ‘Seriously? I’m trying to apologize and you don't even remember?’

“Sorry, it's just, well, this week has been so busy I kinda forgot about that. I mean until you showed up anyways.” you clear your throat. “I didn't expect you’d apologize for it. Much less show up here to do it.” 

He pinches the bridge of his nose. “I shouldnt’ve’ shown up.” 

“No! Its fine that you did! It was just shocking.” 

He takes a deep breath and exhales. “I wanted to talk to you the next day but then I was told you were on break for a week. And, well, I didn't want to wait any longer. It was…” he trailed off before starting again. “It was botherin’ me too much. You looked real hurt so… I’m sorry.” 

A pause between you two follows and the only sounds are the nighttime insects and your family's music and laughter that echoes past the wall. Then it hits you. You're five hours away from Tokyo right now. Your vacation ends the day after tomorrow. He could have waited another day. He could have called. Even a text if he really wanted to apologize that way. But more importantly you never expected he’d apologize to begin with. It hurt and you were scared but you figured that was just part of the territory of being in the defense force. You get your commanding officers ire sometimes. 

“... I accept your apology.” You say looking at your half eaten cake suddenly too shy to face him.

He sighs in relief. “Good.” 

Another pause. 

“You came all this way to apologize?” you ask, looking at him. Searching his eyes. 

He looks at your eyes in return and doesn't respond for a moment. “Yeah.” he smiles. “Can I have some of that?” 

“Huh? Oh, yeah but I dont have another fork-” He steals your fork and takes a piece of the cake. 

He chews and swallows. “It's good.” 

You watch him chew. Stunned that he just did that. “Yes.” 

“Homemade?” 

“Yes.” 

“You like it a lot too, huh?” 

“Yes.” That's the only response you can say apparently. 

He chuckles then his voice drops when he speaks. “I have so much fun with you. I didn't want what happened to affect us.” 

You watch him not sure what to think right now so you say the first thing that comes to mind. “I have fun with you too.” You suck your lips into your mouth directly after saying that because never would you have imagined you'd have the bravery to say something like that to him. 

He laughs. “What's with that face?” 

You pretend not to know what he's talking about, raising an eyebrow still sucking on your lips. 

He laughs more and you try to hold your lips in but end up bursting out in a laugh too. It's so good to hear him laugh. It's so contagious. It always makes you smile without fail. You both go on until the laughing subsides on its own. You now remember what happened after the training session. 

“Can I ask you if something happened before the session that made you do that? I was afraid I did something to disappoint you.” 

His expression visibly shifts to a serious one as you say that. His eye brows furrow slightly like he's mad at you for saying that. “You could never disappoint me.” 

You once again are at a loss for words so you give a nod instead. 

He joins you leaning on the wall. He silently looks down at his shoes for a moment as if thinking of what to say before facing you. “I don't want to give you excuses.” 

You shake your head slowly. “Not an excuse. We were wondering if something had happened. You're not usually like that.” 

Soshiro looked hesitant to say anything. He seemed to look everywhere except back at you. He opened and closed his mouth several times before speaking. “My family isn't like yours ya’ know.” 

There had always been whispers about the Hoshina family. Not very good ones. Soshiro also doesn't often volunteer information about himself. But maybe tonight he's making an exception because he feels guilty. 

“My brother called me and…” he sighs irritatedly and drags a hand across his face. "I'd rather not bore you with the details.” he says with a breathy half assed laugh. “It’s a nice night with your family. I dont wanna ruin that.”

He's uncomfortable and you can see it. It stings a little bit that he won't tell you. 

He picks up on changes in your facial expression as you look away. “Sorry. I know I just spent the whole evening with your family but…” he sighs. “It’s just a lot that you really don't need to worry about.” he’s trying to sound like he's doing you a favor. 

You give him a sad smile. You want to know. You want to know everything about him. “I understand.” You understand that he's your boss and there's always going to be an invisible boundary between the two of you because of that. Can't get too close. That's always it isn't it? You both can laugh, joke, he can show up to your family gathering unannounced, charm all of them, get you cake, but no. You can't get too close. “But I want you to know you don't have to keep it to yourself. I mean you tried that and look where you are now.” 

He snorts. “Yeah you’re right.” He looks at the top of the wall then the gate. “It's not such a bad place to be though.” A sudden wave of laughter comes from behind the wall. Your family's joy makes you smile. 

“Yeah I guess they aren't so bad.” You eat more of your cake. “But it's not always like this, you know.” He looks at you curiously. “I just want you to know families are complicated. But I'm sure you know that.” 

He nods knowingly. “Yeah. I get it.” He stretches and takes the fork from your hand, swiping the last piece of cake for himself before you can say anything. He picks up the cup and chugs down his drink. He grimaces “Yeah your uncle for sure put somethin’ in that.” You laugh. “Well I'm gonna head out.” He checks the time on his phone. “I’ll catch the last train to Tokyo if I leave 10 minutes ago.”

You start to panic. “Are you gonna be able to get home?” 

He shrugs and starts to walk away. “If anything I’ll stay at the nearest base.” He waves as he walks backwards. “Thank your family for me! They were great! I’ve never heard someone be asked if they were my (girlfriend/ boyfriend/ partner) sa’ many times and be so cool ‘bout it!” 

You blush. You become the shade of a ripe strawberry. The inside of a watermelon perhaps. “What!?” 

He chuckles. “I’ll see you back at base soon!” 

You watch him walk away casting long shadows by lamp posts as he passes them. You ask him in a whisper “Why didn't you just wait until I got back?” 

[movie-robotnik-positivity]

Knuckles and Wade headcanons?

- When they got back to Green Hills, Maddie forced Wade and Knuckles to fix the living room as punishment.

- After Reno, Knuckles continues to train Wade. These lessons range from basic physical training (at least basic for Knuckles standards) to meditation and echidna traditions.

- In return, Wade teaches Knuckles how to play bowling (the hardest part is helping him control his strength). While the game used to represent Wade's relationship with his dad, it now has a new meaning to him.

- Wade throws away all of his Pistol Pete paraphernalia. Knuckles and Wendy decide to burn it all in a campfire.

- Knuckles defends Wade when he hears Sonic and Tom make offhands comments about him. He encourages Wade to stand up for himself.

- Wade makes it a point to travel home for Shabbat more often. He always brings Knuckles with him (this time with Maddie's permission).

- Knuckles often hangs out with Wade while he's on patrol or at the speed trap. They spend the whole time listening to music, trying to find new jams for Knuckles.

- Wade gives Knuckles his old Discman as a gift.

[otomiyaa]

Kaiju Experiment

Kafka & Reno

A/N: Second to last story I crafted during my trip. Ha ha, ha...

Summary: Reno and Kafka are suddenly curious about something. Are Kaiju ticklish? (Also on AO3)

Word Count: 1.1K

Everyone had already left the dining hall for their training. Kafka huffed, breathing out as he counted.

"O-one huhundred... One h-hundred one... One hundred t-two....." So harsh, Mina. He couldn't let go of the habit and accidentally called her by her first name again during lunch. Seriously? Two hundred push-ups?

To his embarrassment, the others had stayed behind until the count of fifty at least. They then were all ordered to leave, which luckily gave him the privacy to finish his punishment.

No one would even bother checking on him, but he knew that he couldn't disappoint Mina, not even behind her back. He was going to finish up to two hundred push-ups as she ordered him to.

"Senpai! You're still not done?"

Eep! Kafka wheezed like an old man and looked up tiredly to see Reno enter again.

"W-why a-are you hehere," Kafka asked, continuing his push-ups with every bit of strength he had. Which wasn't very much, to be honest.

"I came to tell you we're assigned to the same team for our next training. Hm... No one's here now. Should you keep going?"

Kafka nodded. "O-otherwise M-Mina will..." He continued to do the push-ups, and Reno snickered.

"One hundred six.... One hundred seven....."

"Senpai, you'll never make it to two hundred. I think she was just messing with you."

"N-not Mina...." Kafka's arms were starting to give in. He was shaking.

"Senpai, come on. They're more likely to scold you if you come late for the training."

"One... hundred.... t-t-t-ten," Kafka whined when he finally reached that number. Yes! Ninety more to go, he was definitely going to -

"WAHAHAHA!" Kafka was surprised by his own sudden cackles, caused by a very ticklish sensation under his arms. Reno!!!

"Heehee. Are you ticklish, senpai?"

Wait, how dare he- NO! "Ihihihichikahahawa! Nohoho I'm- gahahah!" Kafka shook his head hysterically and tried his best to continue. But Reno continued the tickles and eventually his arms gave in.

"Nohoho! Okahay I'll cohohome!" Kafka giggled like a school kid, curling up and kicking his legs as Reno continued to tickle him.

"Hehe. Good. Let's go," Reno said, helping him up. Then as they were still holding hands, Reno suddenly halted.

......

"W-what?" Kafka asked, still out of breath.

"Senpai. Are Kaiju ticklish?"

"Huh? How should I know?"

They both stared at each other, the thought sinking in slowly.

"Oh. You really want to know?" Kafka finally asked when Reno continued to stare.

"I actually want to. You?"

Kafka hesitated. "Me too...."

They were still holding hands because Reno helped him up, but now those same hands were shaking each other's in a firm handshake.

"We'll find out. After training, okay?"

"Okay."

It was going to be a useless Kaiju experiment, Kafka knew that. But he was now curious too. Would he still be ticklish in his Kaiju form? And what would this mean for other Kaiju, did they actually have such a weakness? If skin was too hard to get penetrated with bullets and swords, could it be subjected to tickles?

He needed answers. It took them a while to find the right moment. Training, lecturing, eating, bathing, but eventually they managed to sneak out together and found an abandoned spot near the base.

There, Kafka transformed in the dark of the night.

"So cool that you have it under control now," Reno said, applauding humbly. Kafka nodded proudly. Reno was so tiny now.

"Right?" Kafka giggled. He then spread his arms.

"Okay. Tickle me."

"GROSS!" Reno barked.

"Huh? That's why we are here, isn't it?"

"Well yes but don't say it like that!"

Reno very nervously approached him, his fingers wiggling. "Well then, here goes." He first wiggled his fingers under Kafka's spread arms, right where he had tickled him earlier.

Kafka felt no difference. He immediately sucked in a lot of air, but was quick to explode in a hysterical giggle fit as he wrapped his arms around himself and kneeled down.

"HAhahaha okay thahahat s-still ticklehehes!"

Reno kneeled down by his side. "Then what about here?" he asked, tickling his sides and ribs with fierce clawing moves. Kafka squealed and squirmed pathetically.

"YEHehes tihihickles! Bwahahah!"

Reno looked amused. "Here too?" He poked his tummy. Kafka screeched like a woman.

"Interesting. Your pain tolerance is impressive, so how is this form so sensitive to this?" Reno experimented with softer tickles, and somehow that felt even worse. Just the mere scribbling against his Kaiju skin, Kafka felt more ticklish than ever.

"I don't think it proves anything. You might just be too ticklish," Reno observed, scribbling all ten fingers against Kafka's tummy and making him howl.

He couldn't imagine tickling Kaiju like this. Yes, it was a silly experiment.

"But stihihill! Wahahah!" He had a hard time controlling his reflexes too. He didn't want to hurt him.

"OKAhahay okay ehehenough plehehease! Ichikahahawaaa!"

"What was that?" Reno lowered his hands, his fingers brushing against Kafka's apparently very sensitive Kaiju hips.

"HEEEHEE! PLEHEhease! Nohoho! Stohohop!"

He must've looked hilarious; a huge Kaiju giggling and begging for Reno to stop tickling him. Smiling, Reno sat back and watched Kafka catch his breath.

"Sorry, I got carried away. You will forgive me right?" he asked with a gentle smile. Kafka nodded.

"S-sure. I wanted it too. Besides, I'd crush you if I tickled you back now," he said, and he winked. Together they sat in silence until Kafka recovered from the tickle attack, and he managed to gasp for air.

"That was interesting. This body shouldn't be this sensitive. I wonder if all Kaiju are this ticklish, or it's just me," he said. Reno nodded.

"I doubt we can ever find out, but. I liked the experiment," he said. Kafka nodded, grinning.

"Me too." Reno was staring at the night sky and didn't notice him transforming back into his human form.

Kafka watched him in this peaceful state for a moment, smiling fondly. It was the perfect calm before the storm moment.

"Ichikawa."

Reno looked at him. "Hmm?"

Kafka raised his hands, holding them out like two big tickle claws. "Payback time."

"Huh WHA-?! You said- WAHahahah! Hohohold on- hehehey! Noooo!" Reno wailed as Kafka pinned him down and tickled him playfully. Looked like he was actually quite ticklish too!

"I said I wouldn't tickle you in my Kaiju form. But I'm actually pretty good at tickle fights~" Kafka sang proudly, bringing out some fun and sweet laughter that he never heard.

"HEeeheheheee! Sehehenpai plehehease hehehe! F-fohohorgihihive mehehe!" Sweet friendly Reno, even apologizing for something Kafka quite voluntarily subjected himself to. Well yeah, Reno did lose a bit of control there earlier.

"What was that?" Kafka said teasingly, and he continued to tickle.

"Forgive meeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

And just like that, their sweet laughter continued to brighten the dark and gloomy night. It wasn't a very useful experiment, but Kafka definitely thought it brought him even closer to Reno, and for that reason alone, he was enjoying himself immensely!

[flowerwiththemachinegun]

Underground fight club AU HC's Turks First? I may not revisit this one to add more but i might cause i’ve thought of some for the Soldier boys, Wutai, Avalanche and Co.(especially taking away Barrett's gunarm?? and Don Corneo’s Fight Club. Idk, I want a fighting game with these guys. Ugh and that blonde guy with the white suit is here…I want these boys brawling.

Kind of picture these scenarios with more realistic hand to hand combat and weaker magic…if someone is that much of a sore loser to use it (cough cough)

I imagine these fights happening in Corneo Colosseum

Rules: No Weapons

No Magic

It’s legal as long as the ref doesn’t catch you

Reno and Rude: 

Both of these guys are a problem to fight. Together? Nearly unstoppable. They’ve got a few losses under their belt as a duo, not too many, this is no losing team by any means. Though Avalanche’s fight club has given them a run for their money several times. They’re both agile and can use their raw strength to benefit them, making them easily adapt to the fighting style of their opponents. 

Rude at times will distract the ref, allowing Reno to get in a cheap shot with his baton. Effectively stunning his opponent allowing Rude to follow up with a barrage of devastating kicks and punches. These two don’t mind playing a little dirty. With the help of one of their fellow club members occasionally interfering from ringside, usually in the form of Tseng providing Reno with his baton or Elena slipping Rude a pocket knife for a particularly nasty fight. From time to time they’ve sabotaged opponents before fights, resulting in fighting an already beaten down enemy or a default win by DQ since the fighter “never showed up”. 

Reno talks a lot of shit during fights, often showcasing his cocky nature. Something about this is contagious for Rude. While he won’t show his cockiness verbally, you can tell he’s getting an arrogant air about him in the way he fights. The more attacks Reno and Rude land, hype them up for a Turks Combo.

If ykyk, these guys are like the equivalent of the Uso brothers during their title reign. One is hardly seen without the other. If one starts a fight (usually Reno, the little shit starter) the other is following directly behind the other. On occasion they bicker about who’s the better of the two Rude, it’s all lighthearted though the stats show who is the better standalone fighter.

Elena (she's only 18?? Yea, I never fuckin knew Jesus christ she’s a baby. It makes sense now. So how old was she in BC? cause I can’t find shit.) 

This little lady has no problem taking down these big brawling men. Quick and agile, don’t let that tiny body mistake you. Equaling out to be a bit of a powerhouse due to adopting portions of Rude’s fighting style early on in training. Specializes in many forms of MMA, as all of the Turks do. 

The whole Turks team plays dirty, let’s face it. With that being said she too uses underhanded tactics. If the odds aren’t in her favor she’ll find a chance to pull out brass knuckles, a  move she’s dubbed “Elena Knuckle”. While she likes to prove she can do it without the assistance of others, her fighting becomes impeccably perfect when her other club members are ringside. Being the youngest out of the group means she’s got something to prove in her eyes, especially to the rest of her team. Elena has to show them that soon, she’ll be taking their place as the greatest fighter. 

Doesn’t have much of a losing streak, any losses stemming from Avalanche’s Tifa. Elena considers Tifa to be her rival due to the challenge she’s able to provide her. Often drawing out rounds at times as Elena loves a good fight with Tifa. Tifa’s ability to adapt to her fighting style and keep up a constant back and forth adds to the intoxicating euphoria that keeps Elena coming back for more. When Tifa is her opponent cheating is off of the table. She wants to beat her fair and square. 

Rufus and Tseng 

You really fucked up enough to get in a fight with these two? Have fun getting scrapped this fuckin bad. The very definition of winning by any means necessary. These matches end so fast they aren’t even fun to watch anymore. Cloud and Barret hold a pretty steady win streak against them, also sharing a losing streak against the duo of Angeal and Sephiroth. 

The fight won’t stop until their opponents aren’t moving. They like knockouts only cause as a duo they kick too much ass to accept anything less. They feed off of each other's energy pretty well, nearly resonating with each other that is making Tseng and Rufus stronger during fights. Interrupting combos for either one or dual attacks sets them back and can leave them vulnerable, allowing for a chance to counter attack. It’s a small window, so their opponents better move fast.

Don’t try these two while they’re out and about, seeing as how these clubs have deep rivalries they tend to clash outside of the ring. If Elena is with them it’s certainly an on sight kind of scenario. The amount of fights she’s started while accompanying Tseng and Rufus between themselves and Avalanche is steadily stacking. (usually due to seeing Tifa.)

Rufus (Obviously club leader)

Once again. Win by any means necessary. This man has had everyone but Tseng banned from ringside from constant interference. Often the other Turks provided him with weapons, the point is to fight each other. Not kill each other. Yet with the choice items Rufus would have his members bring out, the crowd certainly couldn’t tell the difference. 

Favorite go to is a pocket knife. (would be hot no?) Tseng makes for the perfect distraction during this time. Arguing with the ref over “unfair” scoring. Getting into the specific of the striking scores, but who really even gives a damn in an underground fight? Definitely likes to slice a person’s face. Genesis hates having to fight against him. It isn’t just because he’s taken a handful of ass whoopings from the spoiled boy of the underground world, but due to his gorgeous fucking face. He sliced Genesis’ face once and he almost burned down the entire warehouse district, resulting in “no magic” rule shortly after.

Nothing but wins because he be fuckin cheating on some roman reigns shit also doesn’t fight very often. Whenever he pops out for a fight it’s almost a paperview like event. Holds the current championship hostage, no he hasn’t lost it but he should have. If it wasn’t for Tseng that title would be getting kissed goodbye.

Tseng

Despite helping everyone else cheat, he’s the only one with a clean record. While he knows it would bother the rest to boast about it, Tseng has a lot of pride in his solo win streak. Another member who doesn’t fight as often as the others, as their trainer he needs to stay in top condition. 

At times he gives off the impression that he doesn’t move very fast. Don’t let that fool you, one minute it seems like he’s taking a breather but the very next second Tseng is practically on top of his opponent. Taking them down with heavy hitting attacks. The force he applies to these attacks gives him a powerhouse like technique along with being quick and graceful. Doesn’t get knocked off his feet easily, only powerful attacks will cause Tseng to fall. 

Tseng and Elena 

These two work well together, Tseng tends to let Elena take control of these fights to assist excelling in her fighting capabilities, still supporting her in any way that he can. Will regain control if he notices they’re starting to take some major hits and often takes heavier blows to protect his favorite fighter.

The way they feed off of each other's energy is more intense than Tseng and Rufus. Combining their aura together for their signature Tag Team move. Tseng gains a bit of cockiness watching how his star pupil fights so well. Sure, Elena could fight before joining the Turks but Tseng helped elevate her skills substantially and loves seeing it up close against others. 

Losing streak? What losing streak, the way Elena is determined to show off to Tseng losing is never an option. She’s a Turk goddamnit, losing isn’t acceptable. It already hurts her to have any losses on her solo record, so with the assistance of Tseng she can’t begin to imagine why they would lose in the first place. 

[sonicasura]

I've been reading and going over Kaiju No 8 for awhile now. Kafka oozes pure disaster dad energy. The amount of times he accidentally parents his younger teammates and step in when need be is constant. Kafka clearly does a better job than a certain blonde teammate's father.

Anyway, why not really throw him through the dad shaped hole in the wall? I already got a few good examples. There's plenty of material from other media. I'll be adding some personal headcanons to Kafka's Kaiju behavior. Fully believe he wasn't unaffected mentally. Full headcanons here.

He has a feral side driven by primal maternal instincts. If the human half marks you as his kid(or whelp in kaiju term) then so will the other part. Feral side comes out under extreme distress like his whelps being in danger to a very powerful threat near them.

Kafka unconsciously exhibits animal behavior from his kaiju half. It ranges to purring, nuzzling, gentle headbutting, even grooming which includes licking. He's very embarrassed about that last bit cause he tries not to.

Also his Kaiju side is prone to adding changes without his consent. Extra appendages such as a tail, tendrils or even wings. This is merely so either mind can catch up and provide support like to his whelp. Kafka will struggle to will these away.

With that out of the way, let's get started.

Kirby

Yup. I'm really going there this time using Right Back At Ya cartoon for some inspiration. Kirby crashlands near Kafka's house a few years before the beginning of Kaiju No.8. The man across discovers the baby star warrior and is faced with an inner crisis.

It's clear Kirby is an alien but also a BABY. Kafka decides to keep the little pink puffball unaware of what said decision would bring. Like whenever he falls asleep, the man finds himself in Dreamland alongside Kirby. An unconscious effect from the Star Warrior that furthers strengthen into a small share of power aka being able to use Copy Abilities via Copy Essence.

Yup. I'm throwing Kafka through the ringer with the games first. He deserves a little heads up that his new kid is essentially a walking blackhole that can kill gods. Plus the boost is gonna be needed since Kafka won't have his Kaiju form until canon begins.

If you are wondering how he'll handle Kirby's appetite in his world, his job is cleaning up monster bodies. Thus any parts that will be trashed will go to the puffball instead. Yes, Kirby uses Cook Kirby to cook kaiju meat and share some with Kafka. A new business in the food entry might open up from it.

Finally we soon reach Kaiju No 8's events. Kirby is a stealthy little puffball who can find Kafka no matter where he is thanks to their bond. This connection being two way where emotions, location, current status and thoughts can be felt.

Kirby feels Kafka's distress from his kaiju transformation thus searches for him. Now the age range to join the Defense Force doesn't change here. Then how will Kafka keep his promise? Well it's quite a roundabout actually.

Kafka initially decided to help Reno get in while he tries to find a different legal way of getting into the forces. This way being an analyst from how quick he can pick out Kaiju weaknesses and strengths.

It was Reno's suggestion that led to this alongside being in the same division. Now Kafka trains his Kaiju abilities in both worlds. Finding training partners in Dreamland is easy but for his world it delves into vigilantism.

Kirby and him fight any kaiju that shows up on their radar if the Defense Force can't engage in time. The Star Warrior is listed as Kaiju No.8.5 by DF before you guys ask. It's mainly because he's never seen without 8.

How people view the duo is quite mixed. One part views them as heroes, one part is deciding/neutral and the last is a threat. A mix of emotions that even gotten to the Defense Force.

Engaging the two is very tricky and it's not just for potential backlash from the public. The Defense Force theorizes that No.8 treats No.8.5 as its whelp. Kaiju who follow their maternal instincts are much more dangerous than any other.

Thus everyone is in for quite a ride with this duo.

Rin Okumura

Next up we have the protagonist for Blue Exorcist and demon prince. I'll be doing a separated from birth scenario so Kafka shall be raising a more demon Rin. Earth and Assiah aren't in the same dimension either.

Now they don't officially meet until Rin is three. The cambion surviving on his own via animal blood, garbage or kaiju meat scraps. Kafka finds him when the toddler gets caught up in the aftermath of a Kaiju attack.

Like with Kirby, he's quite conflicted but decides to raise Rin. It starts off a little bumpy as the cambion much stronger than Kafka and his demon features are still present. Like the tiny horn nubs hidden underneath the fire, obvious tail, long ears, claws then finally fangs. Rin's flames only dissipate when he feels safe or content.

Can't forget his temperament either as Kafka been bitten a few times until the toddler truly trusts him. Once that does occur, anyone being mean to the man is met with Rin's wrath instead. Cambions are quite protective when it comes to their claims.

Kafka manages throughout it all as he plans how to become a Defense Force Member. His fellow Monster Sweepers know about Rin's condition and are fully protective of the kid. One reason why Kafka can keep attempting the test.

Rin is homeschooled and taught various things from controlling his fire to handling his anger than just basic education. The most important lesson is being reminded he is loved no matter what. The bond they both share grows stronger especially when Kaiju No.8's events officially starts.

Rin is present the moment Kafka turns into a kaiju. He also helps his father with this newfound power just like the man did for him. Reno is informed of Rin's inhuman status around the same time. Can I say brotherly relationship?

The father and son take out kaiju together but keep their identities hidden. No one has been able to identify Rin due to the young man always cloaking himself in blue fire. His obvious non-human visage marks him as Kaiju No.8.5.

The parent-whelp relationship between the two is quite clear to the Defense Force despite minimal confrontations. Analysts still try to clarify Rin's true form with no success from the intensity of the blue fire. Only thing they know is that he has a humanoid physique leading to speculations about both bearing a similar resemblance.

The cambion decides to join the Defense Force although as a potential trainee than full fledged member. Rin might be strong but he'll need to do some extra studies first. And an actual fighting style to use.

The path of the blade still follows Rin but he won't become an exorcist this time. Kafka will be there to help his son every step of the way. Whether they be human or not.

Link

Finally we got the bearer of the Hero's Spirit and eternal reincarnate, Link. I'll be going with BoTW/TotK iteration as I want to save OoT/MM for a different time. Linked Universe might have a part in this.

A camping trip gone wrong leads to late 20s Kafka to wake up outside the Shrine of Resurrection. He stumbles upon the newly awakened yet amnesiac Link. Feeling bad for the young man, Kafka helps the blonde on his journey. (Get home is a secondary goal.)

Throughout the adventure, Kafka helps Link more than just being a travel companion. He becomes an outlet for the Hero of Courage to express himself. A person to confess his sorrow, fears, and true feelings Link kept hidden from everyone else.

Unrelated note, Kafka is a magnet to fairy/divine creatures. Blupees follow him, the Great Fairies flirt, and the Sacred Dragons grant the man a gift should they cross paths. Kafka might've gotten a Blupee companion he named Konpeito.

Both however become separated upon the defeat of Calamity Ganon as Kafka returns to his world. (Konpeito comes with him.) One day, the older man begins to write letters to Link after receiving advice from a peculiar old woman. Letters that reach back and forth between the two worlds as they keep in contact.

Link and Kafka don't reunite until TotK begins. The latter has begun his first day as a kaiju. An accidental desperate wish from Link pulls the older man back to Hyrule. Both learn how to use their new powers as they journey to stop Ganondorf.

However Link's powers and Rauru's arms taken an unfortunate hold. The blonde slowly becoming a Zonai the more he uses his powers. Hero's Aspect is a conduit to make sure Link doesn't permanently lose his Hylian form. (I'll be designing the Zonai form later cause I don't like the Ancient Hero design. Also he's keeping Rauru's arm.)

Now this adventure comes with an incredible gift. A pair of Secret Stones that can allow travel between both worlds. Link decides to help Kafka join the Defense Force. Using his Zonai form, the Hylian hero helps the man fight kaiju in disguise.

Link is listed as Kaiju No.8.5 by the Defense Force since the two always fight together. Confrontation tends to be avoided especially when the Zonai got badly hurt amidst a kaiju battle. Kaiju No.8's fury and the immense damage to follow was proof enough.

Don't touch a whelp when the parent is around.

For Linked Universe(a fan LoZ comic series) shenanigans, it's a mix between being the Chain getting dumped there or Kafka and his son Tears get dragged in for temporary assistance. (TotK Link's nickname is Tears as BotW/Wild will be present). Entire reincarnation/curse business makes Kafka's head spin more than just the unknown enemy and portal mischief.

All these Links are technically his son so he is parenting all of them. Even Time(OoT/MM) whose probably a few years younger than him. Mostly everyone except for Wind(WW/PH) are befuddled or wary of the man who can become a mask monster. Nevermind the fact his world is ridden with giant beasts and kaiju attacks are normal.

Kafka is gonna have his hands cause everyone in the Chain reeks of various trauma. Trust issues, transformation based dysphoria, martyr behavior, and anything a Link adventure shall give. Plus his feral kaiju side is gonna rectify that whether everyone likes it or not.

"So what if you can turn into a wolf, Twilight(TP)? I think my scale covered mug would scare a lot more people." / "No one is gonna hurt you while I'm here, Hyrule(OG). They will be torn apart if they even dare try." / "Want some gum Wars(HW)? I heard it helps calm your nerves?"

Better watch out. This group of heroes got adopted by a himbo kaiju man and he won't hesitate to destroy anyone who dares harm them.

And that's it for now! Until next time folks, I'll see you later.

[ceaselxss]

//Thinking about Ravens a lot - the AVALANCHE SOLDIER knockoffs from Before Crisis

They get stronger as BC goes on but even the first Raven introduced kills a bunch of infantry in an instant, but then Zack handles them fairly easily later which puts them pretty neatly in a strength equivalent of Third or Second Class SOLDIER; Zack would have been First Class at the time.

And the Turks are able to combat them. I'm uncertain where it states it in game but the wiki implies that one Turk can win against two Ravens. The idea that entirely non-enhanced intelligence operatives can combat two Third or Second equivalents is wild to me. Rude and Reno can stand against a First class equivalent as we see in combat against Cloud, but both of them are unique among the Turks - known as the Strongest Turk and the Fastest Turk respectively.

I do like the idea that Turks have specifically anti SOLDIER combat training but not all of the Ravens were originally SOLDIERs, so if thats true then they're trained somehow to combat mako enhancement rather than the actual fighting styles of SOLDIER

[bitterarcs]

Combat has always excited Reno even if he wasn't classically trained in martial arts until he was fifteen — when he was actually batting the idea around of joining ShinRa's ranks. His innate allure towards combat ( which is essentially violence ) does not stem from positive history, naturally. People seek combat and seek to excel in it to either hurt others and protect themselves from being hurt . . both apply to Reno. In order to survive the slums and to not bee hurt again and again, he took to fighting quickly as though it came with the same ease as breathing. Maybe it does for children who have been beaten down, or perhaps Reno was born with that spark, that naturally tendency that takes to violence. In one way or another, he's been actively fighting since the age of eight, mostly defending himself when he was that young, then moved forth to hurting others back.

From an early age it wasn't just about the necessity of fighting, Reno did actually enjoy it. Not only did he enjoy being the victor in the fight, he has always enjoyed watching other people fight; this is how he learned a lot of interesting techniques growing up into his teenage years. At around the age of twelve, Reno began fighting for sport — making or losing some fast gil in sin dripped hell holes for back alley gambling. Reno was always scrappy and quicker than people expected but not particularly strong. At fifteen, when the prospect of being something more than a shit head street kid drew him towards ShinRa, he actively sought to be trained in mixed martial arts. Some techniques he learned on his own, however the bulk of very technical skills was learned from a variety of experts. He also took measures to bulk up his weight and gain real strength.

Being accepted into the Turks was validation that what he was doing was right. Although everything about Reno comes off as lazy, there are barely any things in his life which actually are lazy. If he's not in the field kicking ass, he's at the various gymnasiums at ShinRa HQ to keep in shape and keep developing his skills. When someone wants a challenge or is unaware of his vast skill set, Reno loves sparring other ShinRa employees. Just like taking down enemies, there's a tremendous thrill bringing a fellow comrade into submission. Reno doesn't consider himself a sadist, but he does have both sadistic and masochistic tendencies, more so with the former. A really good and bloody fight can get him excited. He can't imagine a life without combat.

038. — combat @poeticphoenix

[duckydae]

{random boys planet thoughts...}

we get an under nineteen reunion moments

+ mnet only aired in the trailer with min hugging jay and seunghwan. + seunghwan, min + wumuti together during the here i am training. + seunghwan cheering for k-group, then wumuti follows for g-group during yuehua. + hwanmuti in various youtube clips (eye-contact, speedometer and gangg / zoom practice room.) + you can hear wumuti cheering for seunghwan after en garde's family performance and of course the banner on show-day. + seunghwan's "pass" comment about competing with jay. + them sitting together during the finale. + seunghwan and jay on u19 had such baby faces they've grown out of (byeonghee too). wumuti and min still look the same though (i miss wumuti's auburn hair)

hwanhee singing "dream" by baekhyun & suzy adds ten years to my life also his behind the scenes with kill this love team is so baekhyun coded.

hwanhee and gunwook were the highlight of the first elimination. hwanhee realising he shouldn't want more people to survive in other teams because that means less for ktl is hilarious.

of course it's woongki that points out that seunghwan probably hasn't been called because he's a top nine candidate (he was in my heart).

the return of smiley, fluffy-haired wumuti.

woongki's edit was interesting, it never felt like it was laughing at him but it did feel like mnet was consciously using him to fill gaps and what makes it more apparent is mnet not showing the hanbin vs. haruto battle (outside of 'the centre' loosing) considering we now know that it was basically a lipsync for your life.

speaking of, you can't convince me the supercharger team name isn't a drag race reference, "club ninty-six~"

i was dying at the juxtaposition of the 'macho tough guy' edit of seunghwan, jiwoong, mingyu and ma jing xiang then cutting to wumuti who's just happy to be there

jianyu almost swearing in his reaction to one of our lovely princesses.

hwanhee ripping the piss out of dongyeol during the sports day for his awful strength test attempt.

key should've hosted boys planet. mnet not having a consistent host was a poor decision and minhyun was not a good pick for the finale. your contestants should be able to build rapport with them and you couldn't do that. or, bring back yeo jingoo.

mnet give me my 00s content, especially seunghwan and seowon (+woongki) giving seunghwan a make-up lesson.

i kinda wish we got a 'here i am' girls planet style mission were they separate into groups of nine.

boys planet should've done a fashion-show like girls planet because it's a genuinely good skill for the boys to have but instead we got cut yoga content watching poor minseoung catch haruto sweat.

the only people who gave woongki energy on girls planet was wen zhe and youngeun.

hwanhee, bora and yujin were most definitely giving the same energy (also, fuck you mnet. you screwed my girl over again. you gave her a rancid evil edit and tried to back peddle far too late. for shame!)

what was the point in not having ph-1 sit in on gangg especially because it's the higher music version!

seowon looked like reno from ffvii in love killa

ma jing xiang gave me weird vibes and that's completely my fault. his demeanour reminded me a lot of my cousin so i just never clicked with him.

i love how mnet covered hanbin's snort and seungeon's fart to keita with soundbites but did not hide doha's fart during round one.

[serviceandstuff001]

Strength Training with a Personal Trainer: Why It Works

Strength training is one of the most effective ways to build muscle, burn fat, and improve overall fitness. But for many people, getting started can be overwhelming. This is where personal training in Reno can make a huge difference. Working with a personal trainer provides guidance, motivation, and accountability—key elements to ensure long-term success in strength training.

Why Strength Training with a Personal Trainer Works:

Personalized Workouts

A personal trainer customizes a workout plan based on your fitness level, goals, and any limitations. This tailored approach ensures you're getting the most out of every session.

Proper Form and Technique

Avoiding injury is critical in strength training. A personal trainer helps correct your form, ensuring you perform exercises safely and effectively.

Progress Tracking

Trainers monitor your progress, adjusting your workouts as you get stronger. This helps you push through plateaus and continue improving.

Accountability and Motivation

It’s easy to skip a workout when you're on your own. A personal trainer keeps you accountable, ensuring you show up and stay committed to your goals.

Efficient Use of Time

With a personal trainer, you won’t waste time wondering what to do next. Your sessions are planned and optimized to make every minute count.

If you're ready to take your strength training to the next level, Sports West Athletic Club in Reno offers expert personal training in Reno that can help you achieve your fitness goals. Their experienced trainers will guide you through safe, effective workouts tailored to your needs. Join today and experience the benefits of strength training with a professional!

[the-original-skipps]

|| Beating them at the punching machine game. || Kaiju No. 8 Reactions ||

it’s great to be back!! just caught up to the kn8 manga really missed you guys and to be writing i dont think i have a full 100% grasp on their character yet so ooc warning! you guys are gonna be seeing a lot of kn8 from me lol

: Ichikawa Reno. Narumi Gen. Hoshina Soshiro.

❥ Reno lets out a surprised yell as your fist connects with the punching ball and your score shoots up. His voice was louder than expected as a couple of passerby’s turn to look at you and him. He immediately turns shy, looking down in embarrassment. You walk over to him gigging at his adorableness. The moment you stand in front of him, he grasps your shoulders which catches you in surprise. Trying to keep his voice low, he exclaims how amazingly strong you are. Now it’s your turn to turn shy as countless praises leave his lips. Before you turn red as a tomato you take his hand in yours, pulling him towards the other games at the arcade. Reno vows he’ll train harder to become as strong as you and also to never piss you off. He shudders while you look at him in confusion.

“Let’s train right away when we get back! No? O-Okay, maybe another day.” 

❥ Narumi watches you walk up to the machine. He's already picturing your dejected face. He’ll then have to pull you into a hug while cooing sweet reassurances to you like the good boyfriend that he is. The thought has him grinning like an old man but suddenly a loud bang rings out. Which immediately snaps him out of his daydreams. Only to see your score going up at an alarming rate until it surpasses his own, becoming the newest high score. Seeing the numbers you let out a squeal of delight then turning back to look at your boyfriend whose eyes are now as wide as saucers, mouth agape. Who’s still as a statue you walk up to him. You wave a hand in front of his face to snap him out of his daze. Narumi looks at you in bewilderment as he struggles to form his words. With the same smug smile he gave you earlier during his turn you pat his back in comfort.

"T-There must be something wrong with the machine! I demand a rematch!! Hey! Don’t you dare post about this on Instagram!!"

❥ Hoshina's eyes open momentarily as he sees your score passing his and becoming the new high score. He lets out a whistle as you excitedly turn around and run up to him. He finds your excitement endearing, as he pats your head as praise. He knew you were strong but this was a whole new level of strength, a feeling of pride swells within him. With a teasing smile on his face Hoshina asks you if you've been training in secret and what kind of training you've been doing. You deny his questions, feeling a blush creeping up your cheeks. Even though his eyes are closed you can feel his intense gaze on you. His hand that was previously on your head lowers until it rests upon your cheek, you await in anticipation at what he’ll do next. However, the moment is quickly broken as he comments on how your strength resembles that of a gorilla's while trying to hold back his laughter.

"I’m kidding! I’m kidding! Though if you were a gorilla you’d be the cutest one! Ouch! I’m kidding hahaha!” 

⋆˙⟡taglist: @stunies @maruflix @hayatoseyepatch if anyone wants to be added pls lemme know!

[josiebelladonna]

i keep picturing myself on the run. clothes on my back, courier bag over my shoulder filled with my art supplies, books, journals, and writing stuff, running from a trump dictatorship and hiding out in places off the grid.

motherfucker took the house from my mom and me because we’re both women and we’re not allowed to own property. we got in our car and began driving. we got to bishop/the base of the sherwin grade and saw that even the middle of nowhere isn’t safe. hell, we get to reno and saw that it’s not safe. but we press onward.

my mom has the strength to get us to my dad and stepmother’s house but it’s dicey as fuck because we’re women and we’re not allowed to drive, and the cost of eliquis is double that what it is now ($600 on goodrx, how is anyone okay with this), but she holds on for much longer. but i can’t stay here because of my support for the jewish diaspora. i can’t stay here because i’m a woman of mixed race living in the former land of the free.

i have no star of david plastered on me but i’m marked.

my parents and i put our heads together and we can figure it out together. we have enough money to get me up to british columbia and it’s five hundred miles away. but i can do it. i’ve taken plenty of train rides by myself, i can escape to a new country by myself.

because the dictatorship has stuck its filthy claws into their government and it looks like i’m going there for a medical reason, i disguise myself as a man à la portia from the merchant of venice and i live on a boat docked outside of victoria. i lay low and begin self-publishing until my parents can come up there to be with me.

i make copies that are slightly different and encoded with the quileute language. i bury the originals in a box somewhere in british columbia and i sink the boat and take the money and run off to a different country as far away from north america as i can get: as much as i love canada, the government is being puppeteered by donald trump. i don’t trust them.

i resurface in the new place out in the backwoods and tell my parents. it’s call collect from a burner phone so i can’t stay on for long, and i expect my dad to call once they get there. i get two calls, one from him and one from alex. everyone he knows locally is dead, he can’t get a hold of his brother because he’s an expat in china and alex is on a restricted list, or chuck and eric because they’re on shitlists too given they’re both hispanic (and native american in chuck’s case), and he’s scared out of his wits. he never explains how he got my number but he’s trying to find me so he can hide, and i vowed to hide anyone who’s jewish, too. i tell him to go to mexico because canada has been zombified by the united states—besides, mexico’s president is a jewish woman. he calls me again within a couple of hours and i tell him where i’m at. he only has just enough money left to get there.

once he gets there, i introduce him to my parents.

we take what money we have on us and, because alex and i considered refugees given he lost his condo and my boat is at the bottom of the strait of georgia, we’re protected by the government, and i introduce the idea of babka babe all the while because all the local jews got the hell out of dodge to israel but they admit they’re missing that culture: somehow, the country came around and realized the error of their ways. alex also confesses to me that he’s been wanting to be closer to me all this time, and yet there was a dark specter hanging over his head that kept him from doing so. i tell him i get it, and that i knew it was going to be one of those things, it was going to be a long story, i was in no rush. and we start a new chapter of life while figuring out how to get chuck and eric out of there.

[carminaxrye]

❝ i’m not a good man. not usually. ❞

Red Dead Redemption 2:

Sitting in the abandoned old barn near the flooded mine, Carmina looked out the space where the window had once been and watched a moose pick its way along the edge of the water, where the dredge lay half-sunk.

Watching the shadows change in the darkening evening, the teenager tried to pick out a familiar form; she wanted to see Enok or Rush walking out of the tree line towards them. But that wouldn't happen; the Edeners had taken them. They needed to get them back, and fast. But they were hurt, vastly under-armed and miles from Prosperity.

It was the Cap to speak first, his voice monotone as he picked through the small supply crate she had pulled out of the rafters. He was tinkering with some pieces at the workbench, muscles in his jaw set tight and tone dark; Reno was angry. 'I'm not a good man. not usually.'

She bit her lip and felt an embarrassed and guilty blush creep into her cheeks. This was her fault. She had failed, just like everyone at home said she would.

"When we left the Highwaymen were the biggest threat." New Eden hadn't even ventured out of their settlement during the day those months ago. But those whistles and the strength of their attackers; those had been Chosen. Why had Jacob targeted the train?

"I ... I didn't think he would do this."

[themovieblogonline]

Knuckles Review: A Middling Entry in the Sonic Franchise

The Paramount+ television miniseries Knuckles, a spin-off of the Sonic the Hedgehog film series, aims to bridge the gap between Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 with a unique narrative focus on the titular echidna. Starring Idris Elba as Knuckles and Adam Pally as Wade Whipple, the series shifts gears from the high-octane, globetrotting adventures of Sonic to explore more personal themes of mentorship, redemption, and family ties. While Knuckles showcases promising elements, it ultimately struggles to find its footing, culminating in a final product that's as inconsistent as it is occasionally delightful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kETt59yn6A The premise of Knuckles initially offers an intriguing expansion of the franchise's lore. Placed between the events of the second and forthcoming third Sonic films, it provides a character-driven narrative focusing on Knuckles' attempts to adjust to life on Earth. This storyline is given weight by Knuckles' undertaking to mentor deputy sheriff Wade Whipple, played with an affable charm by Adam Pally. The miniseries tries to layer its action-adventure skeleton with emotional flesh by incorporating themes of self-discovery, familial reconciliation, and the mastering of one's potential. Unfortunately, these lofty ambitions are often undercut by a disjointed narrative and tonal inconsistencies that plague the series throughout its run. The Good: One of the show's strengths is its character work, particularly with the leads. Idris Elba reprises his role as Knuckles, imbuing the character with the same gravitas and intensity that made his portrayal a standout in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. His mentorship of Wade introduces a dynamic that allows for moments of humor and heart. Adam Pally's Wade Whipple provides a commendable balance of comic relief and emotional sincerity, although the character sometimes veers too heavily into caricature. The interaction between Knuckles and Wade is, without doubt, the heartbeat of the series, driving home themes of growth and the importance of forging one's path. The Bad: However, the show often falters in its broader narrative and pacing. The storyline, while novel in its focus on lesser-seen aspects of the Sonic universe, meanders through subplots that feel tangentially connected at best. The central plot – training for a bowling tournament in Reno, Nevada, while being pursued by a vengeful former agent of Dr. Robotnik – oscillates between being engagingly absurd and bewilderingly so. The juxtaposition of such a mundane human activity with the high stakes of interdimensional conflict creates a tonal dissonance that the series never fully reconciles. Moreover, the show's integration into the broader Sonic universe feels uneven. While it serves as a bridge between the second and third films, Knuckles sometimes seems adrift from the main storyline, with references to established characters and events feeling shoehorned in rather than organically woven into the narrative. This disjointedness extends to the series' action sequences and visual effects, which, although competently executed, lack the kinetic energy and coherence of its cinematic counterparts. The series' thematic explorations, particularly concerning family and redemption, are commendable but inconsistently executed. The reuniting of Wade with his estranged family members and Knuckles' confrontation with his own legacy and responsibilities offer emotional high points. Yet, these moments often come across as underdeveloped, with resolutions that feel too convenient or inadequately set up. Overall: Knuckles does offer some innovations, most notably in its expansion of the series' mythos. The introduction of new locations, characters, and lore tied to the echidnas enriches the universe in compelling ways. However, these elements are sometimes at odds with the series' more grounded, character-driven aspirations, resulting in a narrative that feels caught between two worlds. Knuckles' ambition to deepen the lore of the Sonic universe while offering a focused character study of its titular echidna is laudable. Idris Elba and Adam Pally deliver performances that highlight their characters' complexities and charms. Nonetheless, the series struggles with pacing, narrative coherence, and tonal inconsistencies, failing to fully leverage its unique premise. While Knuckles provides moments of genuine entertainment and insight, it ultimately falls short of its potential, rendering it a middling entry in the expanding Sonic the Hedgehog franchise.