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deancasforcutie · 11 months ago

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While we’re I’llJustWaitHereThen.mp3 for Act Two of The Winchesters -or rather thee reboot, which should be known for the extra high bar it’s gained this year- I’d like us to round off 2023 considering a song choice from the finale I haven’t seen discussed, but illuminates Dean’s path going forward.

The moment Dean, Jack, Bobby, and Baby disappear, “One of These Things First” by Nick Drake plays. For the curious, Nick Drake is ingrained in the cultural consciousness as a precursor to the likes of Kurt Cobain and Elliott Smith for his musical talent, melancholic lyrics drawn from a troubled life, and (at 26, one year too young for the original 27 Club of Jimi Janis Jim Morrison) untimely tragic death.

Such allusions seem all too pertinent to our not-so-Mystery Man who’d also sooner burn out than fade away, huh? But first and foremost, “One of These Things First” here evokes the multiverse reveal - playing over scenes of Lata helping restore Ada’s soul and Mary and Samuel parting. The characters could be any number of things, but as Mary says of her possible alternate selves, “I’m gonna make my own”; with the meta knowledge that Dean is “picking the music” non-diegetically, this track’s relevance to his own life (and death) becomes apparent.

I could have been a sailor, could have been a cook A real live lover, could have been a book

From the start we see well-chosen lyrics for thee episode of Dean “Hello Sailor” Winchester; it goes without saying, here and in the series’ deafeningly loud negative space, how Dean’s desire to be “a real live lover” drives his search for happy endings in this Supernatural Romance. Genius.com notes that “a book” in Nick Drake’s metaphor means “someone who spent their time gaining knowledge about the world”; leaving them his own book, evidently a record of Supernatural’s main events and likely intended as a setup for revelations about his postseries shenanigans, Dean becomes their absent guide opposite John’s original series role through his journal.

I could have been a signpost, could have been a clock As simple as a kettle, steady as a rock

Following lyrics about metaphorical objects also evoke Dean’s role as a guide - but given his view that “I think I did” find a model for his found family’s happiness in them, it goes both ways (and so does he).

I could be here and now I would be, I should be, but how?

These last few lyrics played in the episode call to mind the final undying core of Dean’s self-doubt: his inability to move on, like so many restless spirits parallel him. Dean’s sensation that he is not “here and now,” being unstuck in time and lamenting that he’s “already dead,” highlights his distance from the lead characters and their sense of closure - as does his use of the James Hetfield alias as a false name, dodging the central question of Who You Are. For all his heroism, Dean’s role as the central mystery never fully solved implicates him as the haunting force derailing another story into his own as much as any reality-warping trauma parasites.

Minding all these exhortations to mind the gap, it’s absolutely relevant that the episode omits a second verse centering on romantic longings. (It wouldn’t be the first time - “So on your woman and your child/You release your bitterness,” anyone?)

I could have been your pillar, could have been your door I could have stayed beside you, could have stayed for more I could have been your statue, could have been your friend A whole long lifetime could have been the end

Mary and Samuel’s exchange (“Be safe out there” “I love you too, kiddo”) continues the theme of Just Saying It before any goodbye - acknowledging you can say “I love you” without saying it and be understood. But apropos of everything, the romantic pair never exchanges what they promise they will on reuniting - at once begging the same question as Dean’s aborted love confession(s) to Cas (indicting the heteronormative double standard that makes the answer “obvious” here) and keeping their promise of no goodbyes, meaning “Ramble On” with its tale of a romantic reunion can only refer to one yet to come.

So with Dean left to learn that death is no goodbye for him either, The Winchesters reaffirms Supernatural’s humanistic heart: the conviction that -whether for great artists we romanticize or fictional characters representing our values- we need not mythologize and bemoan death as “robbing” the world of someone’s promise at the expense of affirming the intrinsically worthy human life as they are now and forever (we will all live forever no matter how dead we may sometimes seem to be). A life cut tragically short was still a life worth living, and its legacy one worth carrying on. And I can think of no truth more apt from the series cut short at 13 traxx we will nevertheless replay and remix and resonate with for years to come.

As we ramble on to future installments, I reiterate: “If you had the chance to do it all over again, would you?” “I followed my heart. I don’t think that’s ever a mistake.”

#consider this my ''sleep well'' to the other coolest queer show I know #just heard Ramble On ONCE AGAIN on the car radio the universe is tryna tell me something!#the winchesters #it's underrated due for a reboot #supernatural #spn #dean winchester #destiel #spn meta #spnwin 1.13 #mine

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xproskeith · 23 days ago

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CLANCY TOUR ESSAY!!! ❤️

OK! So finally getting to this A MONTH LATER! IDK how well I'll structure this, but here we go.

Let's start at the beginning. The opening of the show was honestly one of the best/coolest to me and reminded me so much of BF/ERS! The lights went down and the intro to Overcompensate started with the beginning of the music video playing on the screens. The music built up to the "WELCOME BACK TO TRENCH" which EVERYONE at the show and especially in the pit with me YELLED in unison! The energy was immediately so high and everyone was so hyped.

The curtain fell and was pulled away to reveal just Josh drumming and an illuminated red microphone swaying. What a great opening. And then when Tyler made his appearance, everyone lost their minds. Overcompensate was so great and fun live.

I'm gonna preface this next bit by saying the transitions this tour are all just SO GOOD. So, then the transition from Overcompensate to Holding On To You was great because he finished Overcompensate on top of the pit and started Holding On To You on it! Featuring The Back Flip and Tyler's jump too. It was nice to hear Holding On To You from a personal level because my wife quoted the song in her vows.

Then that SMOOTH AF transition to Vignette. Like damn that was so well blended and executed. And we wall love when he pulls out the soundboard/keyboard and start banging out the tunes on stage lol.

Car Radio was SO GOOD too! It's such a banger and they kill it live. Plus it served as the song when Tyler Dropped down a hole and reappeared in the stands! Always so cool when he does that. I do wonder when they do the switch.

The Judge intro was so good. I love that they film people waiting in line for it at each show, truly making it unique for each one. Shoutout to Mark for that for sure! I did not get to be in it because I was in the FPE event when Mark came around. But it was so cool to see the people, some of whom we did see in line, and also get to see so many cool outfits and costumes! And then the song and performance itself was amazing! The Judge is a bop.

The Craving really hits different live. I honestly love when Tyler does these slower songs and it's just him and the spotlight really. There's something intimate about it and it draws you in and makes the song hit that much harder. Hearing Josh play keyboard for it was so cool too. I love that he's doing so much more! He's so talented!

Tear In My Heart had some great visuals and led to a cool transition to Backslide with the lights all falling and Tyler's just sitting there in that chair!

After Backslide, we got Shy Away! Something, something, there's a metaphor there for singing about Backsliding and falling back and then immediately performing a song from SAI, the album that was DEMA propaganda. But, lore and metaphor aside, this song live went so hard! I loved that they used this mini set up for Josh with a small electric drum kit and a mini keyboard for Tyler. It was great and cool to see. And the crowd LOVED it! Everyone was singing so loudly and that made me smile because I want them to know people love SAI and its songs. Tyler ended it perfectly with screaming the final "Don't you Shy AWAAAAAAAAY!" to draw it to a close.

Next we got our first real banter and interaction from Tyler! Some jokes about how we weren't their first (show lol) and then giving the crowd directions for Heathens! Heathens was great and I love that they still work it in to shows despite the song being for a movie. It's a great song and the colors they chose for the lights and visuals were great. Green and purple (my wedding colors lol).

They did Next Semester next which is always a hype song. But Tyler went HARD during this song and the crowd responded in turn! It was one of the highest energy moments of the show and it was just so fun and good to be there yelling/singing along!

Then it finally happened. THEY BEGAN TO MAKE THEIR WAY TO PLAY ROUTINES IN THE NIGHT! My now all time favorite TOP song! I loved that both Josh and Tyler made their ways down around the crowd to their mini stage set ups. It was just some beats playing until Josh got to his drums and started doing his thing, transitioning us into Routines In The Night. As he does, Tyler starts singing and appears on the screen, walking through the backstage area with red LED lamps until he emerges through a walkway on the opposite side of Josh. Carrying THE CHAIR! He really did just set it down midway down the walkway and start singing there with the fans before picking up and continuing on his way, singing and dancing the rest of the way. Then he got to his mini stage and IMMEDIATELY got on top of the piano to finish out the song lol. Seeing this song live was EVERYTHING to me!

Tyler talked to the crowd some, making jokes about how the people in the stands could sit for this part and that that was his dad's favorite part of the show. Amazing. Then they played some old songs including Addict With A Pen, Fall Away, and Forest, which he joked about it being so old that it technically doesn't exist (just re-record and remaster the songs and release them officially Tyler)! They finished up here with Mulberry Street which was really fun and involved the crowd with their phone flashlights! It was great.

Then Torchbearer appeared! In the stands with an actual flaming torch! It was such a cool and dramatic moment! I gasped when it first happened. And then he made his way down, approaching Tyler! Once he reached Tyler who was waiting solemnly for him at his mini stage, he gave him the Clancy Jacket and Tyler put it on. Then the lights fell and Clancy and Torchbearer made their way back to the main stage guided by the light of the torch (and a spotlight) as a solemn, ominous music plays in the background. The spotlight went out, leaving only the flame of the torch to illuminate the arena. And then DEMA is revealed in dramatic fashion! It was such a cool moment! And was we're still in awe of DEMA, it bursts into flames as the ominous music continues playing.

Finally, they began to move again, taking their spots on stage, and they started playing Navigating! The opening pyro was so intense, but brief, that we felt it in the pit! The visuals and pyro for Navigating was so good and cool! It may have been my favorite performance of the concert TBH!

Then the lights fell as they transitioned into Nico and the Niners. This song was so cool to see with all the yellow lights and visuals. Something about it felt so right to be played right after Navigating and the reveal of burning DEMA, thematically. But the transition from that to Heavydirtysoul was TOO GOOD AND SMOOTH! Then they killed that performance of it. Tyler of course broke out the tambourine. They followed it up with My Blood which was awesome. It's one of my favorite Trench songs and means so much to me.

Finally the time came for Oldies Station. I remember Tyler saying, "This next one's called Oldies Station." and the pit ERUPTED in cheers and shouts. Everyone was so excited for the song! He messed up the lyrics going into the second verse. I'm not sure if he's been doing that at other shows and it was a bit, but it happened! During this time, Tyler was on stage solo with his uke. After stopping from the lyric mess up, he looked over at Josh who had just walked back on stage and sat at his drum kit. Tyler asked Josh what he was doing and it turned out he was eating a bagel off stage lmao. Tyler then asked him if that's what he does every show during that part and Josh just gave him a giant grin I cannot lmao. After that, he dove back into Oldies Station, with Josh joining back in with drums and then some amazing visuals featuring all kinds of clique art. I cried essentially the entire time during this song and am so glad my wife was in front of me and did not notice.

After that emotional ride, they played Fake You Out and Guns For Hands. It was great to hear so many Vessel songs on this tour (but you couldn't give me Ode To Sleep, could you Tyler? It's OK I forgive you lmao [full clarity, this is 100% kidding and I'm not actually upset or anything he didn't play it]). The end of Guns For Hands somehow made for the PERFECT transition to Lavish!

Lavish was amazing live. The song grew on me so much since the album dropped, but it was so much fun to experience live. Tyler and Josh clearly loved it too and looked like they were having a blast and just goofing off more than anything. It was great. It was funny. And it felt genuine. I know this was Tyler's favorite song, so I'm glad he had so much fun performing it live and the crowd loved it too. I will say, Josh was an absolute tease during Lavish. He pulled his jersey off right at the start and teased throwing it so many different times. The arm linked walk and then Josh throwing it bridal style into the pit. Iconic lol.

From there, they transitioned into Ride which was so cool with the gradual slowing down/distortion of the Lavish notes and words into the intro of ride. So good. Eventually, Tyler walked down the walkway from the main stage to the mini stage where he had a young kid from the crowd come up and sing Ride with him! So cool and I hope it made the kid's night! Such a cool experience!

The lights fell and then a spotlight came back on the main stage to reveal Josh in the middle with a mini keyboard, beginning to play the opening notes of Paladin Strait. Soon, Tyler joined him back on the main stage, taking a seat with his back to Josh. The lighting and framing of them on stage felt so intimate, especially with the song they were about to play. It added to the intensity and just made you feel things. Then Tyler began to strum the opening notes to Paladin Strait and started to sing. I knew it was coming because it was one of the things I had been spoiled to for the tour, but I WAS NO PREPARED TO HEAR JOSH DUN SING LIVE ESPECIALLY NOT IN THAT SONG TURNING THE OPENING OF PALADIN STRAIT INTO A CONVERSATION BETWEEN CLANCY AND TORCHBEARER. YES I'M FINE WHY DO YOU ASK? ANYWAY!

Ahem... Honestly, Josh has an AMAZING voice and he did such a great job there. I really love how much he's doing in shows now, too! He's so talented and I like that he's branching out and growing, too! IDK if it was his or Tyler's idea or both, but it was a great idea. Then Josh moved over to his mini electric drum kit to add the drums, but still sing! I loved it so much and this whole set up with them on stage. It was so so good! I was not expecting Josh to come out on the crowd with his drums during this song! But it was a great choice! It was cool and the energy was there. I wasn't holding him, but I was very close in the pit to it!

When the true end of Paladin Strait started playing, I WAS NOT PREPARED FOR THEM TO USE CLIPS I HAD IN MIND WHEN I HEARD "SO FEW, SO PROUD, SO... EMOTIONAL."! I literally wrote a fic about Clancy flashing back to those/similar scenes when Nico was saying that to him! I CANNOT! I wrote this before the first show of the tour too!

The transition into Jumpsuit here was perfect. This performance of Jumpsuit was so amazing. The lighting, visuals, and pyro were all top notch. The pyro was so hot we could feel it DEEP in the pit! Honestly, this and Navigating were the two most visually stunning performances of the concert and are tied for my favorite of it.

Then they played Midwest Indigo which the managed to transition so well and smoothly to from Jumpsuit. Fittingly, this transitioned into Stressed Out, with the clip on the trikes playing on the screens as they transitioned. Tyler even broke out the red beanie and the old ERS/BF era visuals for it! It was great. It's such a great one to hear live and still such a relatable song. The end of it was especially cool with some intense visuals and pyro and then a big BANG pyro at the very end! It was awesome!

After that, it was time for the end. Tyler talked to the crowd a bit and then gave them instructions for Trees, explaining the red dot and all. Impressively, our pit followed instructions pretty well and it only took 2-3 minutes to fully clear the red circle! Then when they were moving on to their mini stages for Trees, the pit was very calm and let them get in place. Once in place, Tyler held his hands up, telling everyone to hold and keep calm. Once he was sure both he and Josh were set, he smiled and motioned for the crowd to fill in. And they did so quickly, but calmly! No one got trampled and no one was rude or didn't follow instructions! And Tyler asked, "I gotta ask, do you have one more left in you?!"

And to thunderous applause, cheers, and shouts, they began to play Trees! They finished the opening verse and the pit started the "HERE WE FUCKING GO!" chant! It got everyone so hyped and both boys grinned when we started! And boy did we (and they) fucking go! The full force of Trees started to hit and everyone was jumping and singing along!

And then it happened. They were climbing into position with their big bass drums on the crowd as the music started to build and build like it does as Trees hurtles towards its end. There was a bang of a pyro confetti cannon from the main stage timed perfectly with the first hit of the bass drums. And now the best, most memorable, indescribable, and almost religious experience part of Trees live began!

The music just continued to build as the boys hit the drums and motion to the crowd who shouted so loudly they can be heard over the deafening music! Giant red flame pyros were burning on the main stage. Red confetti began to fall, so much in fact that eventually all you could see was a wall of red. The energy is unimaginable. There's nothing like this moment. And then the final bass drum hits and crowd shout happened as the music comes to an abrupt stop. And for the briefest of moments, there is silence before the entire crowd erupts into thunderous applause, shouts, and cheers.

Tyler and Josh bowed to each other as they always do before running back to the main stage. They threw an arm around around the other's shoulder and took a few bows together before both making the band's symbol with their hands. And finally, Tyler said, "We are Twenty One Pilots and so are you! We'll see you next time!"

They walked off to stage with a few more waves to Lavish because of course they did.

This show was so good and intense and perfect. I loved everything about it. There wasn't a single bad moment in this show. The sheer performance of it all is just mind blowing. The visuals, the lights, the effects, the stage management, just everything! It's so damn good! And you are forever changed in some way from it, just like you are by any show they do. I don't know how or why, but no one can put on a show like them. It just draws you in and changes your life. It creates a truly unforgettable experience. I honestly have no other way to describe it than as a deeply religious experience. Especially with Trees, but this whole show in general. So much of it was important and personal and intimate even. Then there was the story and the lore elements too. Indescribable. I truly wish I could see them multiple times this tour.

#pardonmydelays #twenty one pilots #clancy world tour #clancy tour

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thegeminisage · 2 months ago

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okay it's star trek update time. saturday we watched voy's "demon" and "one" and last night we did voy's "hope and fear" and ds9's "tears of the prophets."

demon (voy):

this one was so fun. i kept yelling THE GOOP IS ODO and it wasn't ofc but it was fun to imagine

a y class planet...i feel like we only ever see m class...this was very exciting

always exciting when they break out the space suits too

the ship landing is so silly and ridiculous. only slightly less ridiculous than the saucer splitting from tng

for a few minutes there i thought we were gonna have the tom paris/harry kim version of 2.25 resolutions. like because they could only breathe the planet's air. really really really funny

i love that the solution was to just let them clone everybody. imagine after voyager leaves and you can choose any crewman and all the little slimes want tuvok so you just have a bunch of tuvok slimes running around. 10/10

one (voy):

MY GIRL SEVEN....................

this one was soooososososo good

first of all, wtf at chakotay like talking to janeway about her bond with seven...that was gay as hell

i loved also she and the doctor eventually getting tired of each other. their scenes are so funny because they're both really autistic but in different directions

i love also when she gets put through the fire and succeeds...there is nothing she can't do. she really ran that whole ship on her own WHILE HALUCINATING i'm so proud of her

how clever to kind of leave it up in the air whether or not that guy was real, also. i went back and forth on it a few times and finally landed on not real only second before the reveal

her dream about being alone in the snowy tundra...damn. she like hates other people but also hates being alone. what a way to be

hope and fear (voy):

i had to physically pause this one multiple times to collect myself re: janeway/seven

the holodeck game. the argument where they both hit below the belt. the bit in the brig where they reference the first thing that happened in the brig and janeway had to touch seven's little eye thingy in the soft mood lighting wwwwow

i think the ethical dilemma here was a little silly though. like, my guy, you were banking on the ruthless guys who were stronger than the borg and also wanted to eat everyone else for lunch on helping YOU? like everybody say thanks janeway for getting rid of something even worse than the borg! not fuck you janeway for not letting the borg get killed by them

idk. i don't see that she did anything too awful. she sent them back home and saved them from the borg and saved the borg from them and then also got her people thru borg space AND got a gf out of it. leave her alone

i did like all the stuff about intuition vs borg knowledge though...janeway and her intuition remind me of kirk, but janeway and seven both fighting in the brig and then making up in the brig (complete with the touching) is very spones bread and circuses of them.

tears of the prophets (ds9):

man, sorry to say this, but...this script sucked bad. i dont think avery brooks is capable of phoning it in but we probability saw him get pretty close here. that final monologue, which should have ben about dax and was instead about the prophets, was poorly written

and dax's last words being about a baby - come on.

and kira and odo's argument - he is not so stupid he would do this without expecting her to be mad

and the scene between dukat and damar...where was the tension?? crazy dukat great but he's been better

even the thing with quark and bashir moping around in the holodeck because of dax was bad on paper

like, all of these things were saved (well, some of them were saved) by admirable performances from a charming and talented cast, but whew! like, julian looked so sad this became funny. kira and odo kissing to make up was so charming i forgave the premise

but dax's death was a bad death and her final arc being about a FUCKING baby was really sexist. sisko leaving not sure if he is coming back bc of some prophet thing right when bajor needs him most seems ooc. and his monologue to dax not being ABOUT. DAX. was a crime. poor terry farrell.

overall s6 has been great so far aside from a couple of bumps but man did it end on a sour note. i have heard season 7 is divisive so i guess we will see!!

TONIGHT: ds9's "image in the sand" and "shadows and symbols."

#personal #star trek blogging #voy lb #ds9 lb

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humunanunga · 2 years ago

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Project: Eden’s Garden prologue just dropped and here’s my thoughts on the cast so far 👀

Damon: Oh, so we finally get to play as a tool. Just a total trashman. It’s almost like if we went into the first Danganronpa playing as Byakuya LMAO. Can’t wait to watch his guy slowly figure out he was being a gatekeeping prick just to feel self-important and not have to think about having an identity apart from his talent.

Eva: I love her. I already liked her design when the voice cast was announced, which I also really like, and now I’m really looking forward to how her arc pans out. I like how a lot of her dialogue consists of questions/guesses, directives, or observations you wouldn’t need to take her word for. I also like that, assuming it’s true-- and so far, I’m willing to bet it is-- that, while hesitant, she was honest about being the Ultimate Liar. Imagine how that’d blow up in her face later if she tried lying about what kind of Ultimate she was. She knows it’s a lot to ask for with her talent, but she definitely acts like she wants to be trusted. I already said this in Youtube comments, but the contrast against Kokichi really makes a point for why she’s the Ultimate Liar: a good liar knows when not to lie. For one, a bad liar tells lies they can’t get away with, and for another, if your reputation precedes you, all it takes to deceive everyone is to tell the truth and let their suspicion do all the work.

Grace: Uncalled for, but Damon kinda earns it later.

Wolfgang: A polite boy. A lad, even. Save for how riled up that “demo” got him. Wondering whether he’ll be Damon’s Kaito or his Kokichi... Right now, it seems like Damon’s set himself up to be Wolfgang’s Kokichi. Yikes.

Toshiko: We haven’t seen her mouth yet... curious. Could mean nothing... but if this fangame also includes a plant among the killing game participants, she’s my first guess. Danganronpa loves red herrings, so I don’t think it’d be Eva, but Toshiko? Her color scheme would also fit, everyone woke up in pairs, and a lot of those pairs seem to work well together or at least balance each other out.

Eloise: Hello, so you have red eyes, huh? Is there something you’re not telling us? What was that about analyzing your opponent and predicting their next move, almost like you would in chess? Sorry, you seem very sweet, I just know how these games go.

Desmond: Oh no, you’re gonna get a lotta heat for your talent later, aren’t’cha. I am so sorry, you seem like a real chill dude.

Jean: idk, guys, he's jacked and reliable, and beefcakes with integrity tend to strike out on the fourth case in this series...

Ulysses: Another design I loved from the get-go. I get the impression his habit of note-keeping could be important later... I’m rooting for his survival, but that journal could easily be evidence later.

Ingrid: We love a beefsteak.

Kai: I could see the Ultimate Influencer being a traitor or mastermind and using their talent to gather an audience for their killing game, cuz the games are always streamed and he has a lot more black and white in his outfit than Cassidy, but I... kinda doubt it’ll be him unless they’re all revealed to play roles as the mastermind.

Diana: tbh I’m really hoping she’ll be one of the killers. There’s a lot of potential for a makeup artist to cover their crime, like concealing or faking injuries. They did say she’s done makeup for cinema, I’m just saying. I’m just saying! At the very least, even if she’s cleared, I really hope she’ll be a suspect.

Jett: Don’t know what I expected, but I’m loving his energy. He is doing his best.

Mark: What was with that leer on the train? Did he recognize Damon?

Cassidy: Ohhh boy, are she and Wenona gonna duke it out at some point?

Wenona: Damon... my guy... I woulda thought you’d get along with her. You are a certifiable hypocrite if you’re gonna judge her for being an Ultimate elitist.

Cara: Oh, this wasn’t Eden’s first killing game, was it. I’m surprised none of them pointed out after the practice trial how Cara was an Ultimate too... Wolfgang was right. Asking why would’ve been just as important as asking how. We’re gonna circle back to this case later, aren’t we-- hold on... was... was the point of doing this... did... could Cara’s killer have won a class trial?

Tozu: Did... did he sound like Dr. Frank-N-Furter to anyone else or is that just me? Great voice either way, interesting that it looks like he’s wearing a grey body suit under that coat that'd make him look more like an unnamed Danganronpa culprit. Interesting.

Mara: idk, she yoked tho.

#project: eden's garden #project eden's garden #fanganronpa #danganronpa #tldr #etc

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daebakinc · 5 months ago

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Dirty, Dirty Dancing Pt. 7

A Dirty Dancing AU

Pairing: Yunho X Female Reader X Hyunjin (polyamorous relationship)

Word Count: 4.4K

Synopsis: The college campus where boyfriend, Yunho, is a visiting dance instructor seems like every other university you’ve visited until a secret party reveals it’s anything but. After a drunken mishap, promising dance student, Hyunjin, is left without a dance partner. Enlisted in helping him before a big audition, you begin to catch feelings for him. Can you help him and maintain a relationship with your boyfriend?

Part 1 Part2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6

~Admin V

Your nerves were starting to get to you again. Hyunjin and you sat in silence as he drove you both to the audition venue.

The day before was a dress rehearsal as planned. Yeji brought you a dress slip that looked like a long tutu at Hyunjin’s request until Wooyoung showed up with the real deal. But the idea that you held Hyunjin’s future in your hands kept causing you mess up, despite Yeji and Yunho being there to help.

It finally got to the point that Hyunjin called it an early day and told you to just relax and clear your mind before the audition.

Even with Yunho making you a bath and dinner, your mind kept going over the steps in your head, music cues, how to hold your frame. If you weren’t thinking of that, the possible feelings you had for Hyunjin kept trying to come out, which you desperately tried to shove back down. It’s just a job.

In the car, you could tell Hyunjin was also nervous. His fingers kept tapping on the steering wheel. Luckily, he was agreeable to taking your car so he didn’t have to steal Changbin’s. Neither of you wanted to tempt fate or his anger by taking his car again.

You tried summoning the gazebo practice in your mind. It was the best you’d ever done the routine. If you could just find a glimmer of that energy today, you were sure the two of you would nail the audition.

Hyunjin pulled into a parking lot in front of a large brick building. After pulling into the spot, he just sat there, holding onto the wheel and looking straight ahead. He was much more nervous than you realized.

“Hey,” your voice was quiet.

He looked over to you.

“You’ve got this. You’re an amazing dancer, and this audition will only be a glimpse into the talent you have to offer. You’re gonna blow them away.” You gave him your best encouraging smile.

Hyunjin exhaled and nodded. After a breath he turned off the car and the two of you headed into the building.

Though he seemed calmer, the tension was again building up in you. You weren’t the only ones auditioning and in the halls were other couples warming up and stretching. Were you trying to fight for his spot in the company?

Once Hyunjin had signed in, he pulled you to a free space along the wall so you both could stretch before you’d be called in. He helped you adjust the dress to make sure you wouldn’t fall out of it and everything was in place. Were you imagining things, or was he holding his breath as he touched your skin?

He seemed to have calmed down since being in the parking lot, but you were more anxious than ever. As he touched you, he could feel you shaking. His eyebrows pulled together in concern. “What’s going on in your head right now?”

“Oh you know,” you adjusted a bra strap, ignoring Wooyoung's suggestion to go without, “just that I am holding your life in my hands with this audition and if I fuck up like I did most of yesterday, I’ve ruined everything for you.”

His smile reached his eyes as he chuckled. He held onto the sides of your arms and rubbed them with his thumbs. “It’s not just you in there. It’s me, too. We’re in this together. It’s going to be just like when we were line dancing. There were lots of people there, but it’s just you and me to focus on. You’re also a talented dancer, you know.”

Your eyes widened. “I am?”

Giggling more, Hyunjin nodded. “There’s not many dancers who can learn a whole routine in three days and make it their own with little experience.”

Smiling with him, you could feel some of the tension leave your body.

His hands moved from your arms to your face. “You’re gonna wow them, too.”

You couldn’t help but stare at him, looking deeply into his chocolate eyes.

Before you could get too lost in the gaze, his name was called. It was your turn to audition.

Standing in the middle of the room, your body started shaking again. Hyunjin was handing his music to someone, but when he saw your expression, he tried to give an uplifting grin.

As he got in place behind you, you shivered while staring at the four people sitting behind tables with pens in their hands and stern expressions on their faces. They were going to watch for every mistake and write down every blunder.

Hyunjin lifted your arm in place around his neck then whispered in your ear. “Forget them. It’s just you and me. Just focus on me.”

His words seeped into your brain and his hand skimmed down your arm. Just focus on Hyunjin.

While trying to center yourself, you’d forgotten to follow the music and count the steps. Hyunjin making you spin caught you off guard and when he pulled you back, you stumbled into his chest.

Fuck. Now panic was setting in.

Lifting your chin with his fingers, he made you look into his eyes. “Breathe,” he mouthed. “Heartbeat.” He ignored the routine and moved with you until you found the heartbeat. After a few steps, he brought you back into the counts with the music.

Your body remembered the moves as you pressed against Hyunjin. It’s just you and me. Suddenly, you no longer cared about the judges, but felt the same energy as being with Hyunjin in the twilight on the gazebo. They didn’t matter as he touched you, or as you swayed with him. Your bodies rolling and your dress fanning out as you flowed into each step.

That thrill of dancing with Hyunjin was back, and you couldn’t hide your smile when he dipped and caressed you to the music.

The routine was building up to the drop at the end, but one of the judges coughed and pulled you out of the moment.

Your gaze went back to the judges and their harsh expressions. Your mind wasn’t in the routine anymore. What if you squeaked when he dipped you?

The music was almost at that point. Finally in a position where you were facing Hyunjin, you shook your head to indicate you weren’t ready; you couldn’t do the final dip.

Looking a little bewildered, he kept dancing. When it came to the time to finish, he was in the motion of getting ready to drop you, but you quickly reached up and hugged your arms around him.

He didn’t move at first, then his arms also wrapped around you.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered.

The music ended. That was it. The routine was over. You’d finished the audition.

Hyunjin let go of you and pushed against you, so you both were facing the judges. Reaching for your hand, he thanked them and both of you took a bow.

Your hand still in his, and thanking them again, Hyunjin pulled you out of the room.

The two of you finally exhaled.

You wanted to start apologizing again but before you could, Hyunjin wrapped his arms around you tightly.

“Thank you.”

Hugging him back, you couldn’t help but take is his flowery scent. “You’re welcome.”

As you left the building, Hyunjin seemed more excited. It was hard not to feel the adrenaline coursing through your body.

When you were in the parked car, he grabbed onto the steering wheel and let out a “whoop” sound. “Can you believe we just did it? It went so well! Did you see the looks on their faces when the music ended?”

In truth, no, because you flubbed the entire ending. “But I didn’t do the drop.”

“You worked hard! You really had it after you found the heartbeat. You did real good.”

The fact that he wasn’t mad or upset with you allowed for you to smile and also feel excited with him.

He smacked the wheel again. “What are you hungry for? I’m taking you to lunch to celebrate!”

His enthusiasm was contagious and you couldn’t help but smile and laugh.

Then he looked down at your clothes then his. “Well, maybe we can just change at school and get something from the dining hall.” The clothes belonged to the dance department, and if you or he ruined them there’d be a fee.

“I think Yunho has a duffle in the trunk with some extra dance clothes.” Instead of getting out of the car, you crawled into the backseat and moved one of the seats forward to access the trunk. Reaching around, you felt the bag and pulled it into the backseat with you.

You handed him a clean white T-shirt so he could change in the front seat, while you put on a less clean black shirt and Yunho’s sweatpants in the back.

Once both of you were out of the dress attire, you crawled back into the front. “Ready if you are, Captain.”

Somehow grinning wider, he brought the car to life and on the road.

When at a stop light, he leaned over to turn on some music, then chuckled to himself.

You stared at him curiously. “What?”

His eyes were soft when he looked at you. “You smell like Yunho, wearing his clothes.”

“Oh.” You put your face in the collar of the shirt to sniff it. “Sorry. I gave you the clean one. ”

“It’s not bad. It just smells like him.”

You watched him as he bopped along to the music with his eyes on the road. Who could’ve guessed this goof came from the ice queen you met a week ago.

After a couple of songs, he pulled into a casual dining franchise. When you were seated, he insisted that you order anything you wanted.

In the back of your mind was still disappointment in yourself for not doing the drop, but Hyunjin’s energy was hard not to mimic. He was like a little kid on a sugar high. He was so playful when he ordered his food, and smiling widely as he watched you order. But soon a new kind of disappointment washed over you; this was the last time you’d get to see him like this.

The dance was over, finished. You’d done the audition, and there was no more reason to spend time with him. You’d never get to have his hands stroke your skin, or be close enough for his scent to invade your nose.

“Hey.” The smile was still on his face, but you could see the concern in his eyes. “We’re celebrating, here. What could possibly be bringing you down?”

You tried to bring back your smile, but it was a poor attempt. “I just realized that we’re not going to meet up anymore. We won’t dance together again. I guess I really liked dancing with you.”

Instead of bringing him down with you, the grin widened on his face. “It doesn’t have to.”

That’s piqued your curiosity. “How’s that?”

“Well, I am a senior. I do get a spot in the senior showcase.”

Taken aback, you had to tell yourself to close your mouth. “You want me to do the senior showcase with you?”

He laughed. “I was going to ask you, but I figured we’d enjoy the buzz from the audition first.”

“Ah,” you finally smiled back.

“It won’t be an everyday, all-day thing like it was though. I am actually really behind on some of my final papers and projects and what not.”

“I understand. I might have catering or dining hall things to attend to as well.”

He nodded, the line of his lips showing recognition. With a serious expression, he lifted his hand towards you. “Partners?”

Shaking your head because you couldn’t believe what a dork he was, you took his hand and shook it. “Partners.”

Lunch was enjoyable and filled with easy chatter. The way Hyunjin stuffed his mouth with food until his cheeks puffed made him look like a dumpling, and it was so cute, you actually gushed.

The mantra of it’s just a job was quickly evaporating. The job was over. And now he chose you for the senior showcase. He wanted to dance with you, spend time with you. No matter how much you tried, you couldn’t shove aside the feelings anymore.

In the car ride back to campus, the disappointment was coming back. It was going to be hard not to see him every day. And you knew the dance, how much practice would there really need to be?

A lump was growing in your throat when he pulled into the parking lot.

He got out of the car first, but you remembered the costumes and reached in the back for your dress and his shirt and jacket.

Hyunjin opened your door for you.

You lifted the clothes in front of you as you stepped out of the vehicle. “Do we hold onto these, or do we need to take them back to Wooyoung?” Were you going to wear them for the showcase?

“I’ll hold onto them,” he even took your dress.

There was a sudden awkwardness between the two of you. Hyunjin looked like he wanted to say something but was having trouble finding the words.

Watching him patiently, your focus suddenly went to his lips. They were wonderfully plump. Gazing back into his eyes, you saw he was also looking at your lips, too. Did he want to kiss you?

Both of you seemed to be moving in closer to each other.

A breeze shook the leaves in the trees surrounding the lot, and wafted Yunho’s scent from his shirt into your nostrils.

Yunho.

Realizing what you were about to do, you backed away from Hyunjin.

He had also been caught up in the moment and backed off, clearing his throat to ease the tension. “I need to head down to the art studio to work on my portfolio. But I’ll see you around. I’ll message you about showcase practice.”

“Yeah, you nodded quickly in agreement. “See you.”

A knot was forming in your stomach. Yunho.

Each step to the guest cottage felt heavier than the last. At least last time you had alcohol to help you. This time it would be all you, and you were so scared of hurting him. But you had to be honest with who you were and your feelings.

It was late enough in the day that Yunho should've been finished with his last class, but you weren’t sure if he’d be home right away or stay to help with the showcase or pieces for their finals.

He was sitting in the living space on his phone when you walked into the door. When he saw you, he jumped up with a smile on his face. “How’d it go? I thought I would’ve heard from you immediately after.” He took in your appearance. “Did something happen to the dress?”

You felt awkward as you set your things on a side table. “I didn’t want to get it dirty. Hyunjin wanted to take me to lunch after because it went so well.”

“It did?” Smiling wider, Yunho took you in his arms and spun around excitedly. “That’s awesome! Tell me everything.” He set you back down.

“I didn’t do the drop, but other than that, it was good.” Try as you might, you couldn’t muster any enthusiasm.

Yunho saw it. “What’s wrong? I thought you’d be happier.”

It was now or never. “I have feelings for Hyunjin, real feelings.” Gods did it feel good not only admitting it to him, but to yourself.

The relief was short lived as you watched Yunho’s face fall. This wasn’t the first time he’d heard you say these words, but you could tell it still shocked him.

And now that the floodgate was open, all of your words poured out. “I know you said to think of it as a job, and I did, oh god, Yunho I tried. But the job is over and I’m sad. I don’t want it to be. I like him and spending time with him and I just don’t know that I can go a day without him.”

There was a long silence between you. An array of different emotions crossed his face.

“So, you’re saying after a week with him you want to end our years together?”

“No!” Fuck, you weren’t explaining yourself well. “No, that’s not what I’m saying. I love you, so much. I love you more than anything.” You really wished you’d said more the night you were drunk. Tucking your hair behind your ear, you tried to collect your thoughts. “You’re the one I love and want to be with. But . . .”

“But? You want him to be your sidepiece and for me to be okay with it?”

Is that what you wanted? Wringing your hands, you couldn’t help but think that maybe you should’ve talked to Yeji beforehand to better explain yourself. “Maybe the three of us could be in a relationship? I think maybe I’m polyamorous. But maybe all of us could be.”

“Polyamorous,” he repeated. He started to back away from you. “So, I’m no longer the one who holds your heart?”

“It just means that my heart is so big it can hold you both. And maybe you two can hold each other’s, too.” You wanted to reach out to touch him, but he had moved too far away.

A smile was on his face, but it held no joy. “That sounds like wishful thinking.”

He was right and you knew he was. You’d been wishing there was more to the chemistry you saw between them when they danced so you could have your cake and eat it, too.

“Yunho, I’m sorry this is coming out clumsy. I love you. I love you more than I can ever express. But you always encourage me to step out of my box and try to find more parts of myself and fully understand who I am.”

“Yes, finding yourself, not other people.”

You flinched. No matter what you said now, there was no walking away from this without someone getting hurt. “I tried telling you this before.”

He scoffed. “So, this is my fault?” His hands gestured widely as his voice raised in pitch. “That the last time you told me you liked Hyunjin and I told you it was just dancing in close proximity, I should have taken it more seriously?”

“I’m just saying you could see something was there before.”

His mouth fell open incredulously as he looked away from you. You could see the shock in his eyes and frustration in his jaw, as he closed his mouth in an angry grimace. “Yes, you’re right. Totally my fault for not anticipating the love of my life deciding she can love me and whoever the hell else she wants. Hey, polyamorous right? You seem close to Yeji, are we going to invite her into our relationship, too? You’re friends with Felix, maybe he should join. Don’t you feel guilty about fucking over Changbin? He should be with us, too.”

“Yunho,” your lip quivered. “That’s not what I’m saying.” You couldn’t think of a time seeing him so angry. “I’m just trying to tell you how I feel.”

“And how do you expect me to take it?” He was unsure of what to do with his hands, going back and forth from resting on his hips to crossing his arms. “Did you think it would feel good hearing I’m not the only one?”

“I’m not trying to hurt you. But can’t you see holding this inside would’ve hurt me; denying who I am? Don’t I owe it to both of us to be true to who I am and explore what I’m feeling?”

There was absolutely no expression in his face as he stared at you. He didn’t call you “baby” like he always did, but called you by your real name. “Then go explore them.”

Straightening your back, you furrowed your brows in confusion. “What?”

“Go find him and explore your feelings.” It looked like he was ready to cry.

Tears welled in your eyes as you realized he was kicking you out. “Yunho,” you whimpered. “I love you. You know that I love you, right?”

Shaking his head, he exhaled through his nose before looking at you. “Which is why I need you to leave. I don’t like the things I’m saying to you and there’s a million worse thoughts floating in my head right now. You wanna be with him? Then go be with him.”

Letting tears flow down your cheek, you tried to keep yourself together. You didn’t want to leave him. But you also didn’t want to upset him more. It was clear he needed space. Gathering every emotion you could, you looked him in the eye. “I’m sorry.”

As he looked at you, you could see the heartbreak in his eyes.

Unable to bear it, you looked away, taking your phone and keys with you. When you were out the door, you slumped on the small porch and let yourself cry. This wasn’t what you were planning. Now you were scared you might’ve lost Yunho. You never wanted that. But this thing with Hyunjin wasn’t going away.

Thinking of him allowed you to stop crying. You weren’t really sure what to do now. Should you go to Yeji? Surely she would be a shoulder to lean on. Should you confess to Hyunjin? You did almost kiss him earlier.

Not really thinking, you started walking. Before long, you found yourself in front of the art building, then in front of his open studio door. The light was on inside and there was music playing.

Peering in, you saw him in the corner looking over his art pieces. Seeing him made you feel calm again. There was also a new giddiness, allowing yourself to feel whatever it was you felt for him.

He looked up at you when you knocked on the door. “Can I come in?”

He looked surprised, but nodded his head.

Walking into the room, you felt better than when you left the guest accommodations.

Hyunjin wasn’t expecting you and looked a little uncomfortable. “I was just looking through which pieces I want in the museum and for my final portfolio.” He looked over at a chair covered in his works and moved to clear them so you could sit. After you sat, he looked like he was about to turn off his music.

“No, leave it on.”

Looking back at you, it was clear he was unsure of why you were here.

“I’m sorry about what happened earlier.”

“Nothing happened earlier.”

You sighed. “But it almost did. You see, with Yunho . . .”

“Yunho is great.” He wasn’t looking at you as he sat at a table and rifled through his paintings and sketches. “He’s a great instructor. The way he helped me and is helping the others for the showcase . . .”

“Yes. And I love him a lot,” you had to stop to exhale or you’d start crying again. “But it didn’t stop me from wanting to kiss you.”

His eyes widened. He slowly took in a breath.

You were starting to feel braver. “Hyunjin, I came here because . . .” “No, the way he helped me, helped you, I don’t know that I’d ever have done that. Look at how I treated you when we first met. The only reason I changed was because of watching how he was with you.” His hand swept through his long hair. “The reason people treat me like I’m nothing is because I’m nothing.”

“That’s not true. You, you’re everything.”

“You don’t understand how it is . . . for someone like me. Before dance, I was couch surfing anywhere I could, doing dangerous and illegal things just so I’d have enough money to eat.” His stare was intense, trying to make you feel how serious he was being. “Sure, I got a scholarship which allowed me to come here, but if I had fucked up that audition . . . I’m bouncing on shit and quick as that I could be back on the streets again.”

“No, that’s not the way it is. It doesn’t have to be that way.” You stared back at him in equal measure to make sure he understood your sincerity.

He paused for a moment then shook his head. “I’ve never known anyone like you. You look at the world, you think you can make it better. Somebody’s lost, you find them. Someone break’s their leg . . .”

“And I steal their replacement’s spot because you said I couldn’t dance.”

“That took a lot of guts to call me out and then walk the walk as you did the damn routine.” He shook his head. “You’re not scared of anything . . .”

“Me?” Did he forget about the pole dancing and fucking up the drop you were too scared to do when the time came? “I’m scared of everything. I’m scared that I still fucked it up for you at the audition. I’m scared that I just lost Yunho forever, because I told him,” you needed a moment to catch your breath and make sure your words came out perfectly.

Hearing you mention Yunho, Hyunjin stood up and moved closer to you.

“I’m scared of losing him, because I told him that I’m scared of walking out of this school and never feeling the rest of my whole life the way I feel when I’m with you.”

Hyunjin was stunned speechless as he looked down at you.

Your heart was pounding from the rush of finally making your feelings clear.

The music on his playlist changed songs, making him look away and exhale. He was still at a loss of words.

With him no longer looking you in the eyes, you let yours wander around the studio until they landed on the large, empty canvas he wanted to paint like Yves Klein.

When you stood, his focus was back on you, and his mouth fell slack as you lifted your t-shirt off and tossed it aside.

“What are you doing?” his voice was shaky.

You nodded to the canvas, so he looked at it then back at you. A new confidence filled your veins. “Paint me?”

#ateez #stray kids #yunho ateez #jeong yunho #hyunjin #yunho scenarios #hyunjin scenarios #yunho fics #hyunjin fics #ateez scenarios #ateez fics #stray kids scenarios #stray kids fics #kpop scenarios #kpop fics

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llynwen · 8 months ago

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Hiii love ur rustposting one thing that has recently made me crazy are how in the interrogation scenes there are these moments where rust drops some comment toward each person where the subtext is like, are I can read this off you because I’m the same/felt the same as you/done the same as you and how often it reveals this little devastating nugget of information about him……like the first b&e kid where he says “you were drug down by that same weight that wouldn’t let you have a mom” (oh. oh.) to the pharmacy shooter “how you gonna say a guy that’s on nothing is crazy but a guy that took something that made him crazy isn’t” (OH.) to the Charmaine character, “some people mistake a child for an answer to something, a way to change their own story” (Oh. OH. AAAAH). What the fuck. How dare they do this

hello noonie! i've been thinking about this quite a lot, actually, so thank you for bringing it up!

i've talked about this before, but i think rusty is extremely sensitive and hopeful, and the way he is is a direct result of him trying to squash those aspects of himself. ironically, i think his sensitivity is what makes him such a good detective.

he greatly downplays his interrogation skills in the 2012 interviews, saying that he can just see it in their eyes (if i recall correctly), but i think his real talent lies in being able to Connect to people. now, we all know how awkward he is in interpersonal relationships, but what i mean by connect here is Sympathize. even though the wast majority of the people he interrogates are bad people, they are still People. so be it on the basis of a shared experience/perspective, as you've mentioned, or just being able to put himself in their shoes, so to speak, he is able to make accurate predictions. he Empathizes with the suspects and murderers, and by doing so can understand them better, understand their motives and mindsets.the most interesting case of him doing this is, to me, the munchausen lady (who i am not sure actually even has munchausen. i've had a looksie at this medical journal (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17970367/), and it doesn't really fit. we don't hear about her taking her kids to the doctor's or the hospital, or them presenting with suspicious tummy aches/suspicious symptoms before their deaths. but i have no medical training, so what do i know). even though killing children is The Worst Possible Crime to him for obvious reasons, he is still able to sympathize with her. he expresses compassion, comforts her as she writes her confession down, and even though he is visibly disgusted by it (which results in him telling her to kill herself), he is able to, on some level, connect to her. he brings up munchausen to, in a way, excuse her actions, which makes her more willing to confess (since it's not really her fault.)(you know what i mean).

this behavior does reveal a lot about rust as a person. it drives home the point of just how Vulnerable he is, how Sensitive. he is painfully human, has a fluffy soft underbelly, and all of his crass behaviors and personal philosophies are just an attempt at concealing it, not allowing himself to be hurt again. this is why the ending is so Positive to me. him finally opening up and Showing himself to another person. now That's growth. this is just my take on the situation, and i'd love to hear what you think about this. i'm sorry for dropping another essay in an ask reply, i guess my academic conditioning is stronger than me. thank you again for letting me talk about this, love you mwah

#i had this whole thing written down then tumblr glitched and it all vanished #i hope i managed to include everything in here that i said in the first draft #goddamned hellsite #ANYWAYSSSS THANK YOU SMMMM IM HAVING SO MUCH FUN ANSWERING YALLS ASKS KEEP THEM COMING IF YOU WANNA HEAR MY FUCKED UP LITTLE THOUGHTS #ask #true detective

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imaginespazzi · 9 months ago

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Hi bestie 🥰

Sorry it took me a lil while to check in but I wanted to make sure I formed some sensical thoughts after reading part 1! Although, this might actually all be non-sensical because I’m still reeling from it all and I’m nowhere near as articulate but anyway, here goes (side note: am I listening to if the world was ending while writing this? you bet I am):

WOW WOW WOW, the beginning? My heart broke immediately and as the biggest angst fiend, I was like oh- this- this is gonna be immaculate I already know.

And of course it was. OF COURSE IT WAS.

The photos of them on the wall?? And Paige’s realisation of how much she fucked up cos Azzi never once let go even though Paige ignored her for a WHOLE FUCKING YEAR!!!

The flashback to when Azzi broke the UCLA news to Paige; yeah you ATE that. I know you said you might take inspiration from my suggestion and that’s pretty much how it played out in my mind, only your version was a hundred thousand times better- like the talent is just unmatched.

Paige’s first reaction being “BUT YOU NAMED YOUR DOG STEWIE!!!!” Is so fucking real lmao, I laughed and cried.

Nika standing ten toes down for her twin always, I respect it.

And Jealous Paige? Yeah my favourite trope fr ✊ (also the fact that she already got jealous of carol of all ppl?? lmao, i can't even imagine how she'd react to seeing Azzi with someone that's actually into her 😭)

And then the ending?? You’re sick for that cos see now that’s all I’ll be thinking about until we get the next part (making your fics my roman empire? it’s only fair)

Thoughts on what might come next (which you should totally ignore if it's not what you have in mind bcos again, your brain >>> my pea-sized brain):

Imma need Paige to suffer a lot bit LMAO, like sorry to her but girlie deserves to pay for freezing out princess FOR A YEAR.

Like I know that’s the love of your life Azzi babygirl, but you better make blondie work. beg. grovel.

I also feel like Azzi’s teammates wouldn’t be so accepting of Paige straight away? They’d be super protective of Azzi cos like that’s pookie, who wouldn’t be?? And they were the ones who witnessed just how much she was hurting during her freshman year and how often she waited for a call that never came, so yeah Paige really gonna have to prove herself 😌

Anyhooo, to sum it up, you outdid yourself and then some bestie. Your stories genuinely give me the best escape from reality and I cannot express how thankful I am for you taking the time and effort to write masterpieces like that for us.

Oh finally, the tagline for the story being "everything changes, except the ending" - pure genius, in my humble opinion.

Until next time 💗

-🙋‍♀️ (I’ve decided to fully stick to this as my signature)

Hi bestieeee, I'm so, so, so, glad you liked it. Like I wanted everyone to like it of course, but you especially, it's very important to me that you like it.

Bestie, you helped so much with how Azzi would reveal it/Paige's reaction, like so much of that is your brain work, I just put it into words and I'm glad it turned out how you imagined it.

Lmao I wanted Paige's initial reaction to be so random and I was like WAIT, how is she going to bring a dog named Stewie to UCLA (again more proof that it was always gonna be UConn for her).

Jealous Paige is my favorite version of Paige because it's a) really fun to write and b) really hot to imagine. And it's only going to get worse for her.

Nika needs to be team Paige because I fear Azzi's teammates are about to be menaces to her and not in a good way.

I was actually gonna end it with Azzi running out and then have none of the stuff outside but I think it was important for them to have that conversation and I wanted them to kiss teehee

My current (loose) summary for the next part in terms of plot is "Azzi goes on a date and Paige goes insane" so trust bestie, blondie will in fact suffer. 😈

Always so happy to see you babe, come back with more suggestions or just to ki-ki whenever. 💗💗💗

#ask #fic talk #UCLA ANON LOML FR <3

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chasing-stardust-22 · 5 months ago

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Hello :D

So the next question is a hard one:

What is your favourite Dream video?

I don’t know if I could answer this one myself 😅 But I’m excited to read your answers :D

Yesterday’s answers were way more diverse than for the George videos but one was mentioned quite often: We tried the Minecraft cookbook in real life! I guess we all like irl Dteam :D

Have a wonderful day 💙💚🧡

- 🌵

I feel like saying "all of them" or "the droject even though it's not out yet" is cheating so I'll try and come up with a more specific answer lol

It's really hard to answer this question because it always changes depending on my mood/whichever one I watched most recently! I'd say generally my favourite Dream video is whichever one is the most recent (exceptions apply - as surprisingly enjoyable as it was I don't think anyone is going to call "The Truth" their favourite), but for some highlights:

Three Hunters Grand Finale will always hold a special place in my heart as the one that was the newest when I binge-watched Manhunt, and also as just a damn good experience. It deserves to be his most-watched video, and I highly recommend it as an introduction to Dream and his channel

Having said that, hands down the final manhunt is the best of the lot. The action, the editing, the music, the callbacks, even the hype behind the promotion leading up to the video (a real "you just had to be there" moment, my condolences to everyone who joined the fandom after)...god, talk about going out on a high note. Also "OH GEORGE! WE'RE GONNA END THIS HOW IT STARTED, ME AND YOU BUDDY!" never fails to take my breath away, pure cinema in that line even on its own

Really every manhunt is a treasure, Dream has a real talent for having me on the edge of my seat no matter how many times I've seen the video and know exactly how it ends

Protect the Chicken and Hostage Simulator were the highlights of my 2023 YouTube experience, genuinely hilarious videos

I am forced to put "If I pick up an item, this video ends...Minecraft" here as it was the first video from Dream I ever watched and I still kick myself for not subscribing when I saw it. The realisation it was his video after I'd become a stan remains the funniest thing I've ever unintentionally done to myself

The Face Reveal and the Face Unreveal. One for the buildup and everything it represented for Dream, the other for the sheer chaos it unleashed on the fandom I could keep going but this list is long enough and I will eventually include every Dream video ever if I don't cut myself off now 😅

#thanks_for_playing #Can you tell I love him a lot #dreamwastaken

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tobiasdrake · 1 year ago

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Triumph! The Nine-Tailed Cat has been apprehended! <.< >.> Do not look too closely at the Nine-Tailed Cat.

That was the goal all along, after all. I'm not buying this.

Don't worry, Enyne. I'm sure it will stop being nice shortly.

How much you want to bet that she's the Nine-Tailed Cat? This could go one of two ways. Either this was the plan from the start and Desuhiko's about to spring his brilliant trap, or he just wanted his name in the papers and is about to get totally blindsides. Again, given who we're dealing with, either is plausible.

Alright, man. You've got your quarry literally in the palm of your hand. How you gonna play this?

Okay, Desuhiko's playing cool rather than leaping at the opportunity to gush about how amazing he thinks he is. That's a good sign for everything being under control. Maybe he--

Nope, there it is.

Wow. Right in front of Yakou. The disrespect is real. Of course, Yuma walked out in the middle of a team meeting to go play baseball with a local child so it's not like there was ever any respect to begin with. Yakou's used to this.

God, he is playing this up so hard. I still can't tell if this is part of the plan or if his head is that far up his own ass.

What do you mean, I have to pick Desuhiko's answers!?

Should I lie? Am I being tested on my Desuhiko lore knowledge, or on whether or not I can sniff out that I'm being phished?

Fuck it, we're answering correctly. I'm going to take the Occam's Razor assumption and guess that this is a test of character lore.

That line's going to be hilarious if Enyne gets the upper hand on him. Which she should. I am 100% Team Enyne. I hope he still has that ring in his pocket, and that she filches it straight off of him.

Nice to see someone else as bothered by Desuhiko being the team shapeshifter as I am. We've confirmed that he's not a real threat to women and might even be gay judging by his subtext-laden final hangout. Or bi. IDK.

Point is, Desuhiko having that ability is less troublesome than initially appeared. But that doesn't mean he doesn't take advantage of it to get into hijinx.

And he's talented at Disguising others. You should ask him about the time he and a friend snuck into the girls' school, Enyne! For what were completely legitimate, investigation-related reasons, even!

Having this huge notebook to jot things down in is a great benefit to Enyne. It offers her the ability to surreptitiously conceal her face, so she doesn't have keep a straight face while Desuhiko's saying shit like that.

Mmhmm. Mmhmm. Very interesting. This Nine-Tailed Cat fellow sounds like quite a significant event for you.

I love her. I want her to win so bad.

See, that's way more plausible than fucking selling it. To someone who would love to be in possession of supremely valuable hot goods while trapped in an inescapable fascist police state, I guess.

Of course, she might just be baiting him into revealing where he--

Whoops, he took the bait.

Man, even if she isn't the Nine-Tailed Cat, this is a bad look for Desuhiko. XD She got him hook, line, and sinker. All she needs to do now is reel in.

You got this, Enyne!

#master detective archives: rain code #drake plays rain code #desuhiko thunderbolt

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taloumina · 2 years ago

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You, Me, and the Sea Turtle

Kiara "Kie" Carrera/Female Reader

Fluff

Spoilers: light spoilers for season 1, episode 6

Summary: You surprise Kiara with a “just because” gift.

When I was watching the first few episodes of season 1, I really thought Kiara was queer. Honestly, I would've loved to see her in a queer relationship!

= = = = =

“Our planet is fucked.”

“So fucked,” you agreed, sitting with Kiara on an outdoor bench.

She glanced up at you from your shoulder where she was resting her head. “So what’re we gonna do about it?”

In a nonchalant tone, you suggested, “We can always kidnap some rich Kooks and force them to actually put their money where their mouths are.”

Kiara groaned. “God, the amount of good–real good–that Kooks could do if they weren’t so obsessed with all the wrong things, like making themselves richer… I wouldn’t feel guilty at all for bankrupting them. Don’t tell JJ about this, by the way, or else he’ll call me a hypocrite for never agreeing to his Kook-kidnapping schemes.”

“Don’t worry, I won’t, and neither would I,” you told her. “Might even be fun watching their fellow Kooks turn against them when they’re broke as hell.”

“It’d be the Hunger Games, only Kook style!”

You burst out laughing. “Oh my god, Kie! If any cops could hear us right now…”

“We’d be so fucked!”

You laughed like a crazy couple, and when you were calm again, you said, “Okay, so I know we’re not big on gift giving, and it’s not a holiday, but I made you something.”

“Made?” Kiara echoed, watching you lean over to reveal the gift bag you’d been hiding out of sight.

“Yeah.” You hold it out for her, nervous now that this was actually happening. After weeks of working on it, you were finally giving her her gift.

“I, um… hope you don’t mind the plain brown bag.”

“Please,” Kiara said encouragingly. “I’d take one of these any day over some colorful crap.”

Seeing her smile eased your mind some, but any remaining worry in you was enough to twist your stomach as Kiara opened the bag. She gasped, pulling out a handmade stuffed animal she easily identified.

“A sea turtle?”

“Is it okay?” you asked.

“More than okay–it’s perfect!” Kiara brought you and the turtle in for a hug and only pulled away to ask, “Where did you even learn how to make this? Have you been hiding a secret talent from me all this time?”

“I wish,” you said, laughing again. “YouTube taught me everything!” You lightly touched the turtle. “I remember when you told me about saving baby sea turtles with Sarah, and I know you guys are cool now, but that story stuck with me, and I…” You shrugged and shook your head. “I just thought I’d��I don’t know–turn it into a stuffed animal you could remember it by. Does that sound stupid?”

“No, no way is that stupid! I mean, look at this face!” Kiara lowered her head to the turtle’s level and turned puppy-dog eyes on you.

“Like twins,” you teased, and if you were still worried about her hating her gift, then you definitely weren’t anymore. “I’m really glad you like it, Kie.”

She sat back, holding the turtle in her hands. “(Name), I love it, thank you.” A smile curved her lips as she pat the turtle’s shell. “This right here is way better than anything mass-produced you could’ve found on a shelf.”

“Made with sustainable materials, too,” you added proudly, “and one other thing. Guess what it is?”

Kiara tapped her chin in feigned thought. “Hmm, does it involve the word love?”

“And if I say it does?”

“Then I’d do this.” Kiara kissed you, and neither she nor you were bothered by the fact that the turtle was still there.

The three of you were happy to sit and enjoy the day together.

#x reader #female reader #reader-insert #outer banks #obx netflix #kiara carrera x reader #kie x reader #obx x reader #kiara carrera imagines #kiara carrera

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silvertsundere · 11 months ago

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Silver Talks AniManga (24/12/23)

not as many finales as I made it sound last week cause 3 of them are just taking cour breaks, tho there's hoshikuzu and zom finales tomorrow, but that'll be on next week's post

blue - finale/completed

Anime

Frieren Ep16

great episode, like always, love when they really dig into death, memory and legacy and all that and that's all this episode was so I was content no ep next week but it'll come back in january with a whole ass arc, a good ol reliable exam arc, so that should be fun

Adult Precure Ep12 (Finale)

man I only have one word for this: disapponting I know it's my fault for getting my hopes up with toei but still

the story was pretty bare bones basically just "humans are destroying the world with climate change and we have to change our ways to stop that but can only do it if we work together which is hard" the animation was also the bare minimum, with them turning the girls back into their kid forms when transforming into precures as an excuse to reuse the old stock footage from the shows the music and voice performances were good but that certainly doesn't make up for the rest let's not even get me started on shipping stuff, like them giving saki and mai pointless boyfriends that may as well not even have existed in the story

still it wasn't terrible really, I've seen much worse, and it was cool seeing the girls grown up, it just lacked ambition at the end of the day next year we're getting a sequel to mahoutsukai precure (takarie, hocchan and hayamin main cast!!!!) and it's on a late night slot so I'll hope and pray they actually do something with it unlike otona

Imas Million Live Ep12 (Finale)

honestly just the fact that it's CG would knock it down to an 8 at the most, but.... at the end of the day my ratings are for enjoyment and I sure as hell Am Not Immune to Idols and it would be dishonest for me to give it anything else

it's a real shame it's CG, and that the SC anime will be too, especially after U149 had such beautiful art direction, it just made the inadequacy of CG stand out even more. Unfortunately this seems to be the norm going forward, with even Toei's upcoming girl band anime being revealed to be CG as well...

But anyway, the story was good as usual, following the same formula from the other imas anime of having one episode to introduce each girl and then big group episodes, ofc with the much larger cast ML has, instead they did episodes for units instead of individuals but it was still good I already said what I thought about the animation, tho I will say despite all my complaints the CG is actually great, but that doesn't change the fact that this shouldn't be the norm. if it was only during the concert scenes like love live then it'd be fine but not like this. At least it made me not dread the SC anime so much cause I saw it could be serviceable in this Finally, obviously the music and voice acting are top notch, it's imas after all it was just banger after banger and a cast full of talented queens

Manga

Jujutsu Kaisen Ch246

akutami making it really clear that higuruma is gonna die here with a billion flags but it certainly has been cool seeing him go off, really curious to see how the next chap is gonna go since this one ended with this incredible praise

#silver talks animanga

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childotkw · 2 years ago

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hello. ive read past the first task (chapter 24? 25? not sure, ill figure it out when i find the time to pick CS back up.) and wow. yes, this is another long one LMAO ! maybe even longer than the previous ask.

20 chapters is a lot to cover my thoughts on so i might skim through a lot!!! an ask i gave u a week-ish ago about hermione being lucius' foster daughter was a lot of initial shock LMAO… it's wildly contrasting to canon. i love how the reveal actually brought in the first mention of changes that voldemort made about muggleborns and the laws surrounding them. the law first off is just horrid… i mean, it obviously had good intentions (e.g. muggleborns not having early experience and magical education before the age of 11 unlike purebloods and lesserbloods) BUT the execution is just bad.

i don't think voldemort's morals are very much in shape in the first place. it's still horrible to take children away and have them raised by absolute strangers. HOWEVER i love hermione and draco being foster-siblings …. + draco isn't as obnoxious as in canon !!! “I’m sure,” the other boy drawled in a practiced manner. “that you have a number of…hidden talents.” draco is hilariously funny and he's so different from the git that is usually portrayed and fanfics. his dynamic with hadrian is really fun to read LMAO.. i thought it was very interesting that draco was chosen as champion for hogwarts but i should've expected it honestly.

i also love hadrian's 'i take no shit' attitude when it comes to the students from the other schools!!! its so fun to read and see how that changes over time as hadrian is displaying how skilled he is/and chosen as champion for beauxbatons.

talking about hadrian being the champion for beauxbatons, JACOB… i originally read/interpreted the scene where he's putting in the piece of paper wrong and thought it was a hogwarts prefect or something. im stupid,,, but i was very ?? shocked but also like,, i should've known.. i shoudve known... i did at first really like jacob's character and i was . extremely sad . but he's also a douchebag

i literally FELT the dread hadrian had when his name was chosen,,, i feel so bad for the boy LMAOFDJS . my theory about the blank paper backfiring was wrong however he still was the champion anyway.

i loved the interactions between riddle & hadrian. it's so funny seeing hadrian miffed about riddle staring. intently at him 24/7 in his class. when hadrian eventually found out it was a manticore and like. how they are basically unbeatable by spells. and the fact that EACH CHAMPION GOT A DIFFERENT CREATURE too... and hadrian just happened to be that fucking unlucky i flipped. sweat pouring down my forehead like what the fuck is bro gonna do... + hadrian sleeping in riddle's office is absolutely hilarious . raina finding out and going '?????' and then 'im not that much of a whore. he is literally this close to going to a nursing home.' real food i had never been fuller

btw this was my thoughts being recorded real time while reading: hadrian s;eeping in proffessor riddle's office is. hilarious imo.. nagini 'you let him in ur bed' is also insanely funny. but also,, a manticore?? A MANTICORE??? hdrian will not have a ogod time.

then the first task was absolutely wild. hadrian is a genius absolute biggest brain,, the environmental magic shit was cool as hell but the DOPPELGANGER?? that's the shit. then hadrian finally getting to the pole and being safe but getting. rammed by the manticore. then sent off to be healed?? severely injured?? almost dead?? then RIDDLE USES LEGILIMENCY ON HIM? wild. i really loved the description on hadrian's mind and.. occlumency. canon harry is absolute shit at occlumency and ybtm harry isn't too much better. the empty (what do i call it?) part of hadrian's occlumency was cool as hell. i've read other fics that talk about occlumency/legilimency and i've never seen a concept like that !!

riddle/voldy finding out about harry's real identity was fatal... and their dynamic absolutely shifted. the tension, the passive aggressiveness in the air was so strong i could feel it through the screen. after the reveal voldy is very easily dislikable imo... bro has me ready to commit homicide because he is an absolute dick. i also think that ??? hadrian having being given the puzzle/hint thingy so much later than the other champions is so unfair but things are just like that i guess.

another thing i found really interesting was lily apparating to the dursley's home. petunia and lily's relationship is bad, but the way it was described through lily's pov explained it!! really well !! you wrote the complex relationship they have extremely well. i find it also clever that lily used muggle transportation which was an obvious choice since she had the option.

i also. had no idea that sirius was actually abernathy until it was outright stated. i felt incredibly stupid that i didn't pick up abernathy's weird dialogue and stuff but oh well ! i know now... anyways, i'll check in again once i've read to like? maybe the second task? have a good day dear author :>

Ooohhh hello again!! I do love the long asks! 🥰

Oof yeah, Voldemort's muggleborn policy is really...not good. Like, in some ways, knowing his history you can understand why he put it into place - but yeah, like you say, his execution isn't the best. He's the epitome of "cool motive, still kidnapping".

I am glad that you like Draco though! He's not always a character I like, but I think in CS we get to see a more softer side of him, particularly when he's with Hermione, and I'm glad I made the decision early on to write him that way. (And him and Hadrian are hilarious. Their asshole energy is amplified when in close proximity and it's what they deserve 😂).

Hadrian's character arc in general is something I'm really proud of in the story - he goes through such a wild ride, and comparing him to where he was in the beginning, it's really obvious the changes he's undergone! His core traits stay the same, but he gets more...real in a way. Less a cut-out doing his mother's will and more an individual.

As for Jacob - yeah. Look. Boy fucked up, and it was funny to watch the flip in people's attitude towards him in the story over time 😂 he screwed Hadrian over, but objectively he's also such a minor thing in the grand scheme of things. They're relationship is an interesting one to be sure!

And Hadrian and Riddle!! I'm so excited to see how you react to them and how their interactions change over the course of the story!! In the beginning they're such a mess - and while they're still a mess 40 chapters later, they're a more coordinated and understanding mess 😂

(I honestly forgot some of their earlier scenes, and the whole 'Hadrian sleeping in his office' which is so dumb because it was ICONIC 😭)

THE FIRST TASK!! God, what a throwback hahaha - Hadrian really got a chance to shine there right before I smacked him down 🤣 And Riddle is an opportunistic little prick, isn't he? I think 'the empty' is a cool way to label it! It really is the ultimate 'empty your mind' defence against intruders!

And the identity reveal - I remember so many being so shocked that I did it so early in the story! And the angry is there but they get better! I promise!

I also like that you highlight Lily going to Petunia. They are the definition of Complex Siblings imo - so thank you! I'm glad you liked that little glimpse at their relationship! And don't feel silly about the Sirius-is-Abernathy reveal. For the longest time I wasn't sure who in the Order I actually wanted him to be, so it took me a while to land on Sirius.

But again - THANK YOU!!!! I love reading these! And it makes me so happy to get to read your thoughts as you go through the story and what pieces you pick up on!

#flourdove #HP #consuming shadows #harry potter #i scream whenever i see you pop up with these in my inbox #💕💕💕💕

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chorusfm · 9 months ago

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Space Fight – “Is It All” (Song Premiere)

Today I’m excited to bring everyone the latest single from indie-pop synth band, Space Fight, called “Is It All.” On this vibey lead single from their upcoming EP, Hyperspeed, the band channels their love for big hooks and dazzling vocals in a crowd-pleasing package. Band member Miles said, ”Allem Iversom’s lo-fi remix of ‘Is It All’ embellishes the 80s synthy goodness of the original, seeming to transport us through time to the synth-soaked sounds of yesteryear. The track was produced by Allem Iversom and Space Fight, mixed by Iversom, and closes out our Hyperspeed EP with a sense of longing, a nod to the past, and a tinge of uncertainty towards the future.” If you’re enjoying the latest track, please consider visiting their Bandcamp page here. I was also able to catch up with this talented band for a brief interview below. Space Fight · Is It All (Allem Iversom remix) How did you and Allem Iversom meet, and what did the beginnings of this collaboration look like? I can’t get into how we met. Allem Iversom is a pseudonym for a producer I knew, but for contractual reasons, I can’t reveal his true identity or how I know him. He’s basically the Batman of lo-fi music. But as far as the collaboration goes, it was really unique. Usually, when I’ve worked with remixers, or remixed songs myself, you trade the stems, and get back a new take on the song. But with this, there was quite a bit more back and forth, he really wanted my input as he went along with the production. Most of the final song is similar to his first draft, but a few of my little ideas made it into the remix. I thought that was pretty cool, he really saw it as a collaboration. You have an upcoming show in NYC on March 30th, what does a live show from Space Fight look like? We’re playing as a trio again. Our show in 2022, I didn’t play bass and just focused on singing, but I’ve been gearing up to do double duty on bass and vox again now, which is much more challenging but also more fun. This will be our second show of 2024, the first one was a bit of a warm-up, kick-the-dust-off-the-tires kinda show. But this one is the real deal. New York City on a Saturday night. Pianos, one of my favorite venues I’ve ever played, and seen some incredible music. We’re playing with Emerson Hill, and making his NYC debut, Sama the God. These are 2 amazing artists I really dig, and we’re lucky to share the night with them. I’m hoping there will be a bit of electricity in the air. We have a few surprises planned, and basically we’re gonna hit the stage like it’s our last performance, because honestly I have no idea what happens after this. That alone makes it pretty exciting to me. --- Please consider becoming a member so we can keep bringing you stories like this one. ◎ https://chorus.fm/features/space-fight-is-it-all-song-premiere/

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tmntxthings · 2 years ago

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Ok this whole scenario is based off a tiktok I saw by nightlyht so credit to them for the idea

Imagine if Baxter Stockboy ACTUALLY managed to reveal the turtles to the public, and while chained up and in a pure rage one of the turtles shouts that they’re “gonna kill him” in front of the crowd.

Only for them to finally look into the crowd to see the reader, staring back at pure horror as they yelled at the kid they babysit (or younger brother if that’s the route you wanna take).

That was the first thing I thought of when I saw that tiktok and I thought the idea was interesting.

(this can be any of the turtles btw).

Fright at First Sight

author’s notes: alternatively, FFS, well here we are ladies and gents, finally got around to this one c: sorry for the wait anon & to @marwhoa , you are my savior :3 tysm for all that you do, you’re the main reason I was able to pull through with this one <3333333333333333

warnings: angst, hurt to comfort, unedited

—————————————————————————

How did things turn out like this?

Usually Baxter was such a joy to babysit. He was the sweetest kid. He only wanted someone to pay attention to him and his talents. Truly he was a gifted kid, and every time you’d babysit you made sure to show interest in his new inventions. He would light up with joy when you showered him with praise! Truly, he was like the little genius brother you never had. But this time was different. When you went to check on him in his room, (he had told you he would be working on a new project and that he was to not be disturbed!) he wasn’t there. No where in his room and you would’ve gone into full panic mode and called his parents, until you saw what was on his tv.

It was Baxter himself, on the television with the big jumbotrons in the background! And your eyes had practically bugged out of your head and you ran out of his room, and headed for Times Square. You hadn’t been able to see much but he was definitely there, talking to what seemed like a big crowd, and the words ‘revealing New York’s monsters’ had been in big bold letters at the bottom of the screen. Whatever he was doing, you needed to get there quickly, you couldn’t believe he had snuck out, much less made his way to Times Square by himself! Sure he was capable and smart, but still just a kid!!

Your legs were burning and your lungs stung from dragging in the cold crisp air on an autumn afternoon. The feeling brought you back to a very recent memory. Not but a week or two ago, you had been caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. The Foot Clan, a gang that’s infamy was on the rise, had caught you on your way home after a late night tutor session. Similar to how you felt now, you had been running fast and hard. Cutting into alleyways, trying to ditch the two ninjas dressed in black. They wanted your backpack, thinking it had money or something valuable like a laptop in it. When they offered you the ultimatum, “hand over the bag, or else.” You did what any sane person would do, run the other way!

So you were in great distress when you skidded to a stop, realizing you had just turned into a dead end. “No no,” you gasped, your lungs were winded, head spinning as you turned to try and go back the way you came. But it was too late. White glowing ninja eyes were narrowed your way as the Foot Soldiers blocked off your only exit. Or so you had thought.

You found your hands gripping on the straps of your backpack as they closed in on you like predators. “Nowhere to run now,” one sneered. While the other said, “for a pretty little thing you sure do run fast.” When his hand shot out to touch your face you quickly batted it away, hollering for help. You were met with their laughter. “No one’s going to rescue you, you should've given up the bag when you had the chance.” His hand went up a second time, cocking back to hit you real hard. You couldn’t help but squeeze your eyes shut, the fight or flight response had turned into one of frozen fear. But the blow never came, and you opened your eyes to see a bright fiery orange chain, wrapped around the foot soldier’s arm. “Fuck it’s them,” the second ninja groaned as he took out his weapon. The first went flying through the air, whoever was on the other side was pulling with a great amount of strength.

“Now now, I think I heard someone was in need of a rescue.” A deep baritone voice was heard from your left. When you turned, you couldn’t believe your eyes. He was humongous! All green and red like a christmas tree! A big, bulky Christmas tree! You truly couldn’t compare him to anything other than an alien as you were stupefied as he met your gaze. This glance was fleeting as he turned back to the enemy, his fists suddenly glowing red. “Smashing like a boss!!” He roared as his powerful red fists were met with the foot soldier’s sword. The sword didn’t do much. “So, you alright?” Another voice spoke up from your left and you jumped, frozen no longer.

This one was blue, and overall less intimidating in stature. “I-“ you sputtered to try and find words, “what are you?” You breathed out a shaky breath, not sure you wanted it confirmed that yes aliens were real. Soon a purple one who had been hovering above, suddenly landed right in front of you. A flash of purple coming from his wrist, scanning you. “She’s fine, let’s go.” The purple one said monotonously. “We’re just your average heroes” the blue answered as he waved a hand, then promptly made a quick slice with a sword that you hadn’t really seen strapped to his— back? Shell??? You blinked for a couple of seconds. Suddenly you were standing alone in that alleyway, foot soldiers and aliens alike, gone! You turned this way and that way, completely befuddled. It wasn’t until you looked up to the sky where you saw four figures on the roof.

“See ya laters!” A smaller, orange banded alien- hero called out, giving you an excited wave. You couldn’t help it as your own hand came up, still very much in shock as it slowly waved back. The last to disappear from your straining eyes was the red one. Somehow, you managed to get home without your knees giving out on you. Immediately calling up your best friend in the whole world, because you couldn’t just keep this crazy experience to yourself. If anyone would understand it would be April O’Neil! The self-proclaimed expert in dealing with all things weird. She would always say how her life just attracted the not-normal. You would always try to look at the positive side, saying ‘the extraordinary’ instead. “April you’ll never believe what just happened to me!”

The phone call had been a long one, and much to your surprise, she did believe you, every word in fact. “Y/n… I actually have something I need to tell you,” and you waited with bated breath. “Those aren’t aliens, they’re my friends, and the correct term is mutants!” She said in a hurry. By this point your head had started to hurt. “Mutants??” You could only question, and April went on to give you a few minor details. Saying that they were turtles, mutated with human DNA and ooze, and now crime fighting vigilantes! You had to stop her after that, saying that if she continued your head might explode from all this new bizarre shit that was coming into light. “I’m sorry, I think I just need to rest, the foot soldiers were really scary and then finding out about ali- I mean mutants…” you sighed into the phone. “No worries Y/n, let’s chat later, yeah? I’m glad you’re safe!!”

With that you said goodnight, and goodbye. Then tossed and turned all night thinking about ninja turtles. That had been about a week or two ago. You and April had plenty of talks since then and she was actually in the midst of scheduling a meet up between you and the turtles. You had come to refer to them as such courtesy of April. “They’re so excited Y/n! Everything is going to be fineee, I promise, and I’ll be there too!” You were more than a little nervous about meeting them. But you hadn’t thanked them for saving you so, you felt like you definitely wanted to at least go for that reason.

。・゜・[Raph’s pov]・゜・。

They were turning in for the night, it had been an uneventful patrol. Much to Raph’s dismay, it seemed New York’s villains were quiet that night. “Think Dad’s still up?” Mikey asked as he landed on the rooftop above their manhole entrance. “Probably asleep in the recliner if I had to guess,” Raph chuckled. Then he leaned over the edge just as you screamed for help. “PLEASE HELP ME!” Your eyes were trained to the entrance of the alleyway, hoping for a miracle. “No one’s going to rescue you, you should've given up the bag when you had the chance.” The foot soldier’s voice was so sure and smug. Raph turned to Mikey who had come to stand beside him and his little brother nodded, not needing any direction.

Raph jumped down, ninja stealth mode style, and saw that his little brother had saved you from getting hit, just in time. It was his turn, “Now now, I think I heard someone was in need of a rescue.” He felt confident that he didn’t even need to pull out his weapons for these chumps. His mystic powers would be enough. But his train of thought was cut off as he felt your hard stare. He glanced down and was immediately drawn into those big doe eyes. You were scared, he knew he was something you’d never seen before. He turned back to the enemy, time for smashing Raph! He chided himself, because surely he could stare at you all day. You were just far too lovely, and the only reason Raph was able to move his feet away was for the sole purpose of protecting you.

The fight didn’t last long. Back on the rooftop he let himself waver, hoping you would meet his eyes again. And you did, this time he could tell you were less fearful, you were more curious. Full of hesitant wonder at what he and his brothers were. “Raph!” Donnie whispered harshly, he hadn’t noticed his brothers had already moved out of view hoping for you to leave. (This was where the entrance to the lair after all.) He tore his gaze away from you, thankful for the dark shadows of the night because his cheeks were burning fiercely.

Later that night it was like he couldn’t stop thinking about you. He hoped you had been able to get back home safely. Part of him wished he had watched over you… it was those kinds of thoughts that distracted him from really paying attention to the movie that was rolling in the projector room. Donnie waltzed into the room clearing his throat, “Brethren, your attention please” he announced. “What Don?” Leo said, pausing the movie. “I just received a call from April, and you’ll never guess what she told me.”

Mikey was listing off his guesses, “Did she get that job? Oh! She’s coming over isn’t she??? Should I order pizza?” Donnie spoke up quickly, “No, no, and no. She knows that person we saved tonight.” Then he grumbled, “she may or may not have said that was her best friend,” Leo spoke up, “she definitely said that,” he grinned teasing his purple brother. “I will not affirm or deny anything! But April did say she wanted to have a formal introduction with Y/n..” Donnie said then waltzed right back out of the room. Probably to his lab. Raph was over the moon! First at the fact that you made it back safely. Secondly, he had been hoping for the chance to see you again. Call him a dreamer, but he thought you knowing April had to be fate at work. Immediately he was getting out his phone to ask April about the meet up details, he wanted to know when, hoping it would be soon! He also wanted to know more about you. April said that it would be best for him to find out on his own, but overall you are a great person and someone that April held in high regard. Days passed, yet Raph still thought of you, he was definitely the most excited for the meeting.

。・゜・[Y/n’s pov]・゜・。

You came up to the crowd that had grown in size since you last saw it on Baxter’s tv. Baxter himself was nowhere in sight as you pushed through the crowd, receiving some colorful shouts but you paid no mind to it. You needed to get Baxter home, away from all this, the atmosphere was definitely tense. A kid had no business being in the middle of a crowd that could turn into a mob at any second. Finally the view cleared of people and you were about a few yards away from a very large van. Its rear end was facing the crowd, though the doors were closed. Barricades and caution tape were everywhere around the vehicle. No one had dared to go past them so you did the same even though Baxter was nowhere in sight. You had a sinking feeling in your stomach as you turned back around to look into the crowd you just pushed through. Where is he?!

。・゜・[Raph’s pov]・゜・。

He didn’t know how, and Donnie was probably trying to figure it out that very second, but somehow, some way, Baxter rendered them weapon-less. But more importantly their mystic powers weren’t working. No matter how much he strained against the chains, they wouldn’t break. His fists clenched tightly yet no red flow of power would show. Even Mikey (who was really tied up) couldn’t break out. Baxter had even gone as far to leave his little brother hanging by said chains, in the air, feet unable to touch the ground. “Anything Donnie?” Leo grounded out, and if looks could kill, Leo would be a dead turtle. “Leo if you ask one more time I’ll-“

Baxter burst through the van’s front door. Quickly closing it to make sure the crowd outside couldn’t see what was inside, who was inside. An evil laugh escaped him as he saw the turtles all bound and chained like he had planned. “Oh, isn’t this just something! You all fell into my trap far too easily!!” He sneered, meeting each turtle’s hardened gaze with his own as he passed them to go towards the back door. “Baxter can’t we talk about this? We’re the good guys!” Mikey tried to reason with him. Baxter was immediately shaking his head. “You’re anything but good.” He pulled out an iPad and showed them the destruction that had been caused around the city that day. Full of good intentions but ending up going sideways somehow! And every single action was filmed by Baxter… it was all too convenient. He quickly put the device away. “Looks like you’ve gotten outsmarted by me, Baxter Stockboy,” Raph was starting to lose his patience. “Now the whole world will know what kind of freaks have been living underneath our feet,” Baxter spat at Mikey whose eyes had become glassy. “We’re not freaks.” Mikey said weakly, lower lip trembling. “Yes you are, freaks, monsters, mutant menaces.” Baxter’s smile only spread as he watched Mikey’s tears fall. Raph had many talks with Mikey about his feelings of wanting to be accepted. Mikey, out of all the brothers, wanted to be loved by the city he called home. Because he loved it so much, and protected it with everything he had. The tears had Raph’s chest tightening, this little twerp was making his little brother cry!

And that was Raph’s breaking point. “YOU- I’LL KILL YOU” and no sooner had he opened his mouth, Baxter had stumbled out of the back door, an evil grin goading Raph on as the red turtle lunged for Baxter, straining against his restraints and roaring with anger.

。・゜・[Y/n’s pov]・゜・。

You watched with horror as little Baxter stumbled out of the back doors of the van. April had been calling out to you but the yelling drew your attention away. The crowd watched as the red one— Raphael (you remembered from one of April’s talks) roared bloody murder at Baxter! Raphael’s eyes were filled with hatred and anger. You were frozen again, only coming out of it as Baxter’s weight crashed into yours, trembling and crying. “M-monsters!!” He wailed, pointing at the group who saved you just two weeks earlier.

You wrapped your arms around Baxter. “Baxter, it’s okay! I’m here!” You said soothingly. You really didn’t understand what was going on but the kid you babysat for months was sobbing in your arms! It hurt your heart to see, Baxter was like a little brother. So when you looked back up at Raphael your eyes were full of distrust and fear. Kill was a strong word, a harsh word to use against a child. And you couldn’t find it in yourself to feel bad as you saw Raph’s eyes widen, his mouth parting and closing as if he wanted to say something.

The crowd was closing in on the van, pushing against the barriers and yelling at Raphael. But he wasn’t looking at them. He was only looking at you.

。・゜・[Raph’s pov] ・゜・。

It was like all the anger he had felt seconds before was zapped out of him. This look was too much to bear. You hadn’t given him such a look the first time you met, and Raph knew you had been scared then. But now, it was as if you were completely unreachable. Your eyes were cold, and distant. His chest ached for a different reason now as he tried to say something, anything! He wouldn’t take back what he said but, he had to tell you what was going on! That the little kid you were hugging was in fact some evil genius plotting for the City’s money. “I-“ Raph breathed out and the vehicle was suddenly moving. “Hang on!!” April said from the front seat as she shot past the barricades. “April!!” Donnie and Leo breathed out a sigh of relief.

Raph watched as you grew small, along with the crowd, his head slumped forward as the doors slammed shut from a sharp turn.

。・゜・[Y/n’s pov] ・゜・。

“NOOOO!” Baxter screamed, pulling against your grip and chasing after the van that held the turtles. “My PLAN, who— how— AGHHH!” The tears had dried and Baxter was kicking his feet against the pavement. “What plan?” You questioned as you grabbed Baxter by the shoulders. “I- nothing!” He shouted as his eyes darted every which way except at you. “Baxter!” You said sternly, and he flinched before his shoulders drooped with dismay. “My plan to make the city love me and get followed on my account for having caught those creatures.” You sucked in a breath and your eyes went up as the van disappeared from view. “Baxter Stockboy what have you done!” You exasperated as you grabbed ahold of one of his hands and pulled him out of the dispersing crowd, towards his home. “I can’t believe you! That whole act back there was for show??” You said in shock. Seeing the boy you had thought to be good, in a new light. A bad one. “Well yeah, I’ve gotta sell it or else people won’t subscribe!” His feet were dragging, slowing the both of you down. He had completely given up with the facade now that his big plan was blown to smithereens.

“What did you do to them?” You asked, wondering suddenly why they hadn’t fought against those chains. When the powers you had seen them use were much stronger than a little metal. “That was too easy, I found out they liked pizza so I sent a special delivery, sprinkled with lethal poison—“ This had you stop completely in the middle of walking and Baxter ran right into you. “Ow, what the h-“ you turned on him, pushing a finger into his chest. “Baxter, I can’t believe you would do such a thing. I thought you were smarter than this!” And his eyes scrunched up at your words. “Good thing you don’t get paid to think. Just to babysit.” He sneered at you as he stuck up his nose. Your blood boiled and you continued to drag the snotty child back to his house, where thankfully his parents awaited. You explained the entire situation fully expecting to be thrown out the door but they just paid you, and thanked you for dragging their son out of his ‘shenanigans.’

Before you took your leave you practically had to force Baxter to hand over the antidote to the poison. His parents again come to your rescue and threaten to ground him from all his devices unless he did as you asked. Immediately after you left the Stockboy’s residence you called April, “Y/n! She answered in a rush, look I don’t have much time to talk—“

You cut April off, “April, I know what happened and I’ve got the cure for the turtles, just tell me where I need to go!” You were swallowing down your fear as she directed you. Finding it somewhat laughable to see that this was the exact place where you had been saved. You walked to the near end and found the manhole April had described to you. And sure enough, pegs descended into the darkness of the sewers. “Get it together, they saved you, the least you could do is return the favor!” You gritted your teeth, stuffing the important vial into a pocket and down you went.

April met you at the entrance as was dragging you forward into Donnie’s lab. He had to run a few precautionary tests before he was letting any of his brothers drink this supposed ‘cure.’ But sure enough it was clean, and when everyone gathered to get their dosage, you shrinked behind April. Unable to stop yourself when Raphael entered the laboratory. He noticed of course and was quick to drink the cure and leave. “Thank you,” he called out over his shoulder at you, his voice thick.

You find your body moving on its own accord. You stop when the door to the lab shuts firmly. Eyes glued to where Raph had just been. On the one hand you just couldn’t get that scene out of your mind. Watching him lose his cool, it had been really frightening. But on the other hand, you knew Baxter was to blame. April grabbed your hand, bringing you to the common area and then pointed down a hallway. “His room is the first to the left,” April gave you an encouraging smile. You hesitated, nibbling on your lower lip, wondering about the what ifs and getting caught up in overthinking. “Y/n” she grabbed your shoulders and shook to get you back in the here and now, “he won’t bite.”

With that, she let you go and watched as you made your way to his room. You found that only a curtain was being used as a door, so you knocked on the doorway instead. You clasped your hands together and glanced back down the hallway to see that April was gone! When you looked back, the curtain was drawn and Raphael was standing, a little shocked to see you. But he was quick to push his initial shock aside, he sighed, “you should go back to the others, I know you’re afraid when I’m around..” he said this in a soft voice. Not trying to spook you, his eyes weren’t meeting yours either. You took in a deep breath and pushed past him into his room. “I- I know and that’s why I’m here, I don’t want to be,” you said honestly as you looked around his room.

He sure did like red! A small smile graced your face as you then took in a big pile of stuffed animals in one corner. “Oh..” Raph said letting the curtain fall back into place as he stood by the doorway, not wanting to move, still worried he’d scare you somehow. “What I mean is…” you turned to face him, and you were happy to see his eyes finally met yours. “I want to work on not being scared of you,” and came closer, standing before him and tentatively held your hand out towards him. “I’m Y/n, April’s friend, it’s nice to meet you.”

Raph’s eyes darted to your hand and then back up at you. Slowly, and ever so carefully, his hand went out and encompassed yours. Shaking it in greeting as he introduced himself as well, “I’m Raphael, though you can just call me Raph, the pleasure’s all mine.” He couldn’t help the sheepish smile that took over his face as he let go, the same hand going up behind his neck to scratch there nervously. “So!” You started again, just as nervous as him, “y-you like stuffed animals and the color red?” You blurted and your cheeks heated up. Truly you couldn’t think of anything else!

His smile broke into a bigger grin. “Yeah, do you have a favorite color?” He asked curiously as he went to grab his favorite stuffed bear. He wanted to know all of your favorite things, and show you all his. He appreciated your attempts at making peace, a metaphorical olive branch. He desperately wanted to prove how not scary he was. And you had a feeling you were going to get over that fear pretty easily as he bounded back over to you, brown teddy bear in hand. “I think red’s a solid choice,” you said quickly, face flushing even darker. Yep, red indeed!

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I FOUND IT, request inspired by this tiktok!!

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