#that makes 3 members for this album run so far

[radio-4-is-static]

Night Or Day | Franz Ferdinand

Life is never going to be easy But if you're living it with me We're going to livе it up night or day Well I want to live a life with you No lifе is you And I want it night or day I look forward to night or day, oh my

[d0g-water]

Quackity giving reader a surprise visit after a long distance relationship? :o

I imagine he he would not tell the reader anything until he met her face to face 😭😭

you and quackity have been dating for months now, yet still haven't met.

he's always busy with these giant projects and events he participates in; you, on the other hand, had a full schedule as well. so meeting up was a plan that was pretty difficult to arrange a date for.

you are a member of a small rock band, with many rehearsals and meetings up your sleeve. the band has been growing as of lately, and you always think about how supportive your lovely boyfriend is. telling you how talented you are, how he'd love to watch you perform one day, even though you weren't the main vocalist. however, you did have your own song, and alexis added it to his public playlist.

he's so adorable. he knows that none of his fans have a single clue that he is dating someone who wrote one of his favorite songs, but he still tries his best to help you and your bandmates out.

right now, things are getting a bit shaky. since the band finally has enough fans to go on tour, it meant more practicing and less time with alexis.

you were going to perform near his city, but he said he couldn't come. he talked about being just as upset as you were, and that he'd rather go see you than leave to a different state to participate in one of his friend's projects.

you didn't take it to heart because you two still had so many opportunities to see each other.

the night before the concert, you suddenly had an empty feeling. you were going to be near your boyfriend, but you couldn't see him.

you tell him about it, his messages making you feel better, but you still wanted him to show up...

[Today, 3:04 A.M.]

alex <3: hey, we'll see each other soon, okay?

alex <3: i love you so much.

alex <3: i'm going to spend hours scrolling to find video concerts of you.

you hold these messages close to your heart, wanting to tear up and just sob your eyes out but you couldn't.

tonight is all about singing for a crowd that sold out this venue. everyone is cheering for you,

but something felt odd.

your gut tells your eyes to scan the front row for some reason, even though you shouldn't, otherwise you'll get distracted and mess up.

and... despite doing it anyway, you realize that...

you really shouldn't have.

alexis was literally in the fucking crowd.

he wore a white shirt with your band's latest album on it and a black bucket hat. you nearly choked, your eyes widening, as he's looking directly at you and giving you an idiotic smile.

he really made sure this was a surprise.

as much as you wanted to throw your guitar and run off stage, you couldn't. you have to wait a whole two hours to do so.

......

post-performance, your bandmates noticed that you performed less decent than usual. they wanted to check up on you and possibly lecture that this is something serious, and if you wanted to grow bigger, than you have to do your best.

you didn't really want to hear that right now.

you want to see your boyfriend.

"fuck, where is he..." you pant out, running around the empty venue with your bandmates chasing you from far away, praying to god that alexis didn't leave.

you've been waiting what felt like years for this, you spent so long yearning for his touch, you spent so many nights crying over the letters and gifts he's sent you.

now, he's somewhere within a five-hundred feet radius.

you call out his name after breaking into every single room in the damn building, desperate, and out of your mind trying to look for this guy. your bandmates were trying to stop you, telling you that he's left already and that you should go.

you're not a stubborn girl, but today, you're not letting anything get in the way of meeting the love of your life.

there's so much you want to tell him, there's so much you want to do, there's so much you want to give him...

but it seems like everything is worthless, you can't find him. you've completely lost all home. you spent almost thirty minutes looking for him, you looked through the whole place, yet you still couldn't find him.

black tears roll down your face, your eyelashes getting sticky, your vision getting blurry. fuck, maybe you should have ran off the stage after all...

your bandmates lost you, and you don't really feel like finding them. instead, you're going to sit outside and cry.

the front is so empty, the ticket booth was closed, as well as the merch shop. the only thing available was some lonely bench by the singular trash can in front of the gates.

however, there was something in the distance, but you couldn't tell what it was. you're still crying your eyes out, almost cleaning up your makeup.

you sniffled and hiccuped on your way to sit down, wiping your tears with sweaty palms, not noticing the figure growing bigger...

something was white and tan, it was taking up your view of the world.

you were about to walk away, as you couldn't deal with anything right now, until that same unusual stature had a voice you recognized almost immediately--

"oh my god, is that y/n from the band i just saw? i'm a huge fan!"

...asshole.

you sprint into his arms so fucking quick, as they wrap around you so tight it almost relieves every single need in your body.

god. you're finally in them, and you're not even dreaming.

you're in so deep, and what brings you in even more is his voice, right in your ear, say "i love you."

you can't take these words anymore, you're sick of them, you need something more. you pull away from his grasp, using the collar of your shirt to clear up your vision and wipe the lower part of your face.

he looks at you with the shiniest eyes, looking like he was about to say something, but was too late to say it.

you forcefully grab his shoulders, stealing his lips quickly, acting like somebody was around and getting to it before you could.

you've never felt so strong about something. you sing and write these things like it was a goal in your life, merely convinced that you wouldn't experience shit like this...

he could feel how bewildered you are, he could sense that you didn't want to break this kiss, knowing that the two of you are losing oxygen...

alexis holds your waist, as his lips leave yours, making you upset.

he smiles so widely, his face turning pink.

"you're not the type to want breaks, huh?" he teases.

your eyebrows narrow, grumbling at him, "you kept me waiting for so long."

his giggles in person were so much cuter than over-the-screen...

you love him so much.

[pommpuriinn]

⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪. 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝑒, 𝑒𝓈𝓅𝓇𝑒𝓈𝓈𝑜 3

｡𖦹°‧ pairing ｡𖦹°‧ - idol!yeonjun x superstar!oc x idol!jungkook

｡𖦹°‧ synopsis ｡𖦹°‧ - a love triangle between Hollywood’s sweetheart, Korea’s golden maknae, and Gen Z’s IT boy. Estrella is a very busy woman never had time dating with all her photoshoots, movie offers, recording sessions, dance practices, and public appearances. As she’s doing a little world tour promotions for her latest mini album ‘You & Me’, and let’s just say that stop last a little longer and it becomes a little too interesting.

｡𖦹°‧ a/n ｡𖦹°‧ - yj enters the chat (੭˃ᴗ˂)੭

Italics = korean

It’s 6am and the whole team has made it to their dressing room where Sana and Daya are doing Estrella’s hair and makeup. “Ok first will be the ‘You & Me’ stage, but before that you have an interview with the three mcs txt’s Yeonjun, Park Jihu, and Woonhak.” Megan explains. “They will basically ask about your song and what’s the charming point in the dance along with how is your time in Korea so far?” Megan was giving the basic run down. “I’m nervous~” the four girls giggle at Estrella’s cute pronunciation. All morning Estrella has been practicing her little speech making sure she doesn’t stutters or mumble her words.

“You got this Estrella.” Daya boops her nose affectionately. Estrella smiles, “thanks.” Both Sana and Daya were done doing Estrella’s hair and makeup, so it was now time to change her into her first stage outfit. “So pretty!” Sana gasps at the sight of Estrella. “Custom by Chanel, and they did so good.” Megan covers her mouth trying to hold back her squeals. “Thank you Chanel gods.” Estrella prayed. “Ok let’s get going. Your call time is soon and it’s better to do a little small talk with the mcs, so you can get a bit more comfortable.” Megan opens the door for Estrella. “Ok.” She sighs, still a bit nervous. “Fighting!” Sana holds her fist up encouraging Estrella. “Yeah fighting our little star!” Daya follows Sana’s hand motions. “We’ll be watching on the tv.” Sana points at the tv mounted on the wall. “Thanks, I’ll do my best.” Estrella sent kisses before leaving.

Megan walked Estrella through the halls and as they were walking many staff would whisper how pretty Estrella is, and some would try and hold their excitement since they’re fans of her. As they made it to the stage a staff member was explaining to Megan that Estrella will look into the main camera and stand right in between the two mcs. “Oh my god, I feel like I’m dropping off my child on her first day of school.” Megan snicker at herself kinda feeling emotional. “Why do I feel the same though?” Estrella laughs, trying to calm down her nerves. “Again don’t feel nervous. You done this plenty of times, and plus I’ll be waiting right down the steps so you’re good.” Megan squeezes Estrella’s arms comforting her. “I know.” Estrella pouts. “Fighting!” Megan whisper yells before hugging Estrella and walking off the little stage.

Estrella was currently the only one there which gave her time to practice what she was going to say while fixing her ear-in that helps her translate. “Eleven is about-“

“Hello~” the three MCs greeted Estrella. Estrella got startled, but quickly got over it and said ‘hello’ back while giving them little bows. “Oh, she’s pretty!” Jihu gasps making the two guys chuckle. Estrella took a second to process what Jihu said to her. “I’m pretty? You’re pretty too.” Jihu instantly got shy and shakes her head ‘no’. “I’m Jihu, nice to meet you.” She’s embarrassedly introduced herself. “I’m Woonhak.” One of the male mcs bow towards Estrella. As Estrella eyes left Woonhak and moves on to the next person it was like the whole room went silent, and all she could hear was her own heart beating. He towered over his partners and his fox like eyes met her doe ones. “I’m Yeonjun.” Estrella didn’t show her instantly attraction towards him.

‘Ah, this is what Megan must have meant last night. But I can’t help myself’ Estrella bit her lip. “I’m Estrella Blue, and please guide me.” Everyone was a bit shock at Estrella’s little Korean. “That was good!” Woonhak praises Estrella. Estrella was getting shy with all the compliments causing her to hide a bit behind Yeonjun. “Cute~” Yeonjun coos. Estrella looks up at him with boba eyes hearing him calling her cute. She was trying so hard not to kick her feet and giggle. The staff started counting down before going live and Yeonjun guides Estrella back into position by him ghostly placing his hand on the small of her back.

“Everyone we have a really special guest with us that flew from the States to Korea!” Jihu starts the segment. “Really?! Who must it be?” Woonhak acts curious, making Estrella hold in her laughter. “Come on, how do you not know Woonhak-ssi?” Yeonjun acts offended. “Ta da!” Estrella pops in frame. The mcs act surprised making it harder to not laugh, but Estrella kept it together. “Hi I’m Estrella Blue~” waves at the camera cutely. “It’s a honor to have you here today Estrella-ssi.” Jihu smiles at Estrella. “Thank you I’m so happy to be here and perform.” Estrella mentally pats her head for not stuttering. “Right! Your song ‘Eleven’ is so popular here in Korea much like all over the world. Can you tells us more about ‘Eleven’?” Woonhak asks. This is all Estrella was practicing all morning, it’s her big moment. “Yes!” Estrella nods. Estrella grips the mic with both hands already feeling nervous again. “Um…’Eleven’ is a dance pop song that expressive romantic feelings for someone, and basically saying you make me feel more than a ten, you make me feel like an eleven.” As the camera shows the two other MCs clapping for Estrella’s little speech, and as she was paying attention to them she didn’t notice that Yeonjun snake his arm behind her and pats her back. It was like a ‘you did a good job’ but it still sent Estrella butterflies.

“How about you show us the charming point of the dance?” Yeonjun asks, looking down on Estrella. Estrella hums, “sure.” The music cue and starts playing the chorus. All three of them started hyping Estrella up making her chuckle before getting to the hip part of the dance which she quickly changed serious. The audience couldn’t help but cheer seeing Estrella’s facial expressions. “Wow, wow!” The mcs clapped for Estrella. “Thank you~” Estrella claps for herself. “Maybe you should teach Yeonjun hyung!” Woonhak suggests.

‘This wasn’t apart of the script in my head!’ Estrella hears the translator speak in her ear-in, as she was freaking out. “I just need a little help on the hip part of the dance.” Yeonjun speaks in English. “You know the dance?” Estrella asks in shock. “I had too, you’re our special guest.” Yeonjun doesn’t know where all this confidence came from. He was equaling if not more nervous than Estrella, but not from having to speak more because his idol and crush is right in front of him. Pictures and videos do not do Estrella justice with how beautiful she looks in person and Yeonjun is in ‘awe’.

Did he not listen to a word that Estrella was saying while giving him the quickest tutorial on the hip move because he already knew. He was practicing the choreo in his waiting room the whole time. He did spend the 2 minutes trying to see every little detail on her and just was admiring her. “Yeonjun hyung you got it right?” Woonhak snaps Yeonjun out of the trace. “Of course I got it.” Yeonjun confidently answers while getting into position. “Ok music cue! Please~” Estrella calls to the staff. Estrella was surprised by Yeonjun’s dancing, she smiles at him as they made eye contact which almost messed up Yeonjun. “You were so good.” Estrella places her hand on Yeonjun’s arm along with giving him a thumbs up.

‘What are we?’ Yeonjun thinks while looking back at Estrella basically giving her heart eyes.

⭒˚‧ ︵‿⭒ཐིཋྀ ཐིཋྀ⭒‿︵ ‧˚⭒

Next is finally performing the first song ‘You & Me’, and as Estrella walked up the stage she was surprised with the stage design. “It’s so pretty!” She squeals making her fans laugh at her cuteness. “Let me introduce myself,” Estrella clears her throat. “Hi I’m Estrella please cheer loudly for me starrys!” The audience cheers while waving their lightsticks. Estrella then remembers about yesterday and how she met Heemin. “Oh is Heemin here today?” A loud scream coming from the left side caught Estrella’s attention. There stood Heemin waving her lightstick frantically, “there you are. See I remembered, thank you for coming Heemin.” Estrella blew kisses at Heemin’s direction.

Once she saw her dancers go up on the stage with her, she knew it was time to get in position. “Please cheer loudly starrys!” Estrella quickly said before the music started. (Song and dance)

⭒˚‧ ︵‿⭒ཐིཋྀ ཐིཋྀ⭒‿︵ ‧˚⭒

“Excuse me, sorry excuse me.” Yeonjun raced to his dressing room just so he can watch Estrella perform. “Wah~ she’s too gorgeous.” Yeonjun looks up at the tv seeing Estrella little winks and flirty smiles. It felt like she was singing to only him and no one else. Maybe he is a little delusional, but who isn’t nowadays. “Are you going to try and talk to her?” One of his male staff members asks. Yeonjun looks at him with eyebrows raised and wide eyes, “are you crazy?” Making the staff member laugh. “She’s way out of my league.”

Yeonjun continues to watch the performance and feeling envy of the male dancer that was dancing with Estrella, wishing it was him instead. “I mean you’re handsome. You might have a shot?” The staff member shrugs. “You’re not helping me or my thoughts.” Yeonjun huffs, and throws himself on the couch while groaning. Yeonjun was thankfully that Inkigayo kept Estrella being the special guest a secret otherwise Yeonjun would’ve been freaking out the day leading up. ‘Wait special guest? Why does that sound so familiar? Like I heard it before-‘

“Estrella is coming to the Hybe building?!” Yeonjun scares everyone in the room. “Oh…we forgot to tell you.” Another staff member speaks. “Yeah, Jungkook is suppose to show her around.” Yeonjun stops his eye from twitching from hearing the news. Instead he grabs the nearest pillow and slaps it over his face and yells into it. “I feel better now.” He acts like nothing happened.

⭒˚‧ ︵‿⭒ཐིཋྀ ཐིཋྀ⭒‿︵ ‧˚⭒

“Did it look good?” Estrella is now back in the dressing room getting ready to perform ‘Eleven’. “You looked amazing!” Sana squeals, while doing her makeup again. “The stage was on point too.” Daya compliments, as she’s putting Estrella’s hair in a ponytail. “Thank you guys. You both did so well too.” Estrella thanked her girls.

“Since Megan isn’t in the room right now. What’s up with you making those lovey dovey eyes at mister mc.” Daya couldn’t help herself. While Sana and her were watching the interview through the tv they both gave each other the ‘look’ while watching Estrella interact with Yeonjun. “Stop! I was literally thinking about what Megan was telling yesterday and he just popped up.” Estrella whines. “He’s just so tall and cute–i can’t!” Estrella shakes her head, making the girls laugh.

It was finally time to perform ‘Eleven’ and once again Megan walks Estrella to a newly themed stage. “Once you finish performing don’t leave the stage because everyone is going to come back in and then they’re going to do the award ceremony.” Megan explains while checking Estrella mic pack and soothing her outfit. “Award?” Estrella questions. “Mm, every music program here gives an award to the group with the most votes. It’s pretty important here to the idols.” Megan gives a briefing. “Ah ok.” Estrella gives the ‘ok’ sign making Megan chuckles.

⭒˚‧ ︵‿⭒ཐིཋྀ ཐིཋྀ⭒‿︵ ‧˚⭒

The second Estrella steps on the stage cheers erupted shocking Estrella. “Oh my gosh,” she smiles big. “Thank you starrys~” Estrella waves at everyone. “You give me lots of strength.” Starrys gave loud cheers making Estrella pout trying not to get emotional. “Stand by.” The staff speaks through the mic. Estrella and her dancers get in position, “we got this everyone.” She whispers to her female dancers. Everyone could see how much Estrella loves the stage with the way she carries herself within the performance, and how effortlessly she sings and dances, along with her animated facial expressions. All the idols were watching from the sidelines amazed and instantly getting inspired by watching such a big admirable artist perform right in front of them.

As the performance came to an end Estrella did heart cheek pose causing everyone to scream, even the idols caught themselves slipping while cheering. The cameras briefing cut so the idols can get back on the stage to start the award ceremony. Estrella didn’t know where she had to stand, so she went all the way to the left side away from the cameras. Many idols were bowing at her which she of course bowed back, but it was funny because once Estrella bows back at them they would freak out with excitement making her giggle at them.

“Estrella-ssi please move to the center.” The staff member came to Estrella guiding her to stand next to Woonhak. Right after the mcs start reading their little script which Estrella was just scanning the audience giving little waves at them. Honestly, Estrella wasn’t really paying attention because in her head she knows that she not going to win, she just got there plus she doesn’t know who’s the most popular groups here. That is until she saw her face being a nominee, “huh?” Estrella is surprised. She watch as all the numbers max out on every category crowning her the winner. The confetti canons scared her causing her let out a little scream making everyone laugh at her reaction. Jihu passes the little award to Estrella while Yeonjun passes the big flower bouquet to her. “You were great, congratulations.” Yeonjun smiles at her. Estrella thanked them before grabbing the mic Woonhak had for her. “T-thank you, I’m really surprised right now. I literally just got here yesterday and I’m very thankful for all the support I have been receiving. I will be sure to repay all this support with even better music and even better performances, thank you starrys~”

Estrella was about to walk off before Megan stopped her and quickly explained that she had to do an encore stage. Estrella pulled her dancers back up and they all sang and danced to ‘Eleven’. Estrella even made a fan sing the chorus while jumping around touching her fans hands and blowing kisses.

Just before heading out of the broadcast station Estrella filmed about 6 TikToks with different groups. Estrella instantly changed back to her regular clothes before the whole team made their way out to the car. Many fans waited for Estrella to tell her how well she did, to make sure to rest, and to hand her more fan letters. Estrella and her team made it safely to their car while accepting the letters from starrys. “Thank you again starrys. Get home safely and eat lots.” Estrella gave a couple of poses before rolling up her window.

Estrella lets out a big yawn and rests her head against the window. “I’m going to take the fattest nap.” Estrella got herself comfortable. “You find Yeonjun attractive huh?” Megan crossing her arms. “What?!”

You & Me album

Eleven(title track) originally IVE

You & Me originally JENNIE

Don’t blink originally AESPA

Hard to love originally ROSÉ

Holy moly originally IVE

Looking at me originally SABRINA CARPENTER

All night originally IVE

taglist»-♡→ @iveivory @jjkluver7 @lively-potter @angie-x3

[zaptap]

also the fact that these ingame concerts largely use existing live arrangements of the songs makes me wonder--will ordertune have them? they've repeated some songs before (like non-live versions of the songs on the first couple albums with concert songs, and octoling rendezvous, for instance)

but that doesn't mean they will, even if they're technically different (no audience noise as far as i can tell, and muck warfare cut out the part where each member of the band gets a solo). they're pretty similar, and they've done alternate versions of songs before that didn't get on albums (like when final fest's announcement used a looping version of that octo expansion cutscene theme, or when the final fest battles had octo canyon/expansion music reworked into battle themes)

BUT some of these songs didn't get performed at the irl concerts. liquid sunshine, tomorrow's nostalgia today, we're so back--those would all be brand new (technically the new arrangements of city of color and color pulse too). so unless they do have plans to do another concert and include those it would be kind of weird to hold off on that now. and in that case maybe they'd have all the others too for completeness or whatever

they also have to fit it with all the side order music, all the bands that got introduced since fresh season 2023, the special splatfest music, the grand big run music, and the second bankalive concert. like i guess it could fit (4 disks is the same as splatune 3, which also included a concert. octotune took one disk for octo expansion, idk off the top of my head if side order has more or less music though. 2 disks for the rest is uh.... maybe enough?) but i could see them simply not having room to put 15 extra songs in there on top of that, idk. they might skip them especially if they have a live album planned that'd include approximately the same thing as the stuff that hasn't been on previous live albums

[idoltime]

Idol Time’s First Episode featuring Venus’ Chloe Lee (@venusvity), aired on February 17th, 2024 with the shows host, Everlast’s Cody. The video gained 10M views in the first 3 hours and 25M views overall, earning it a #1 trending spot.

The Idol Time studio lights up as the video begins and a smiling Cody walks in, sitting down on a conveniently placed chair. He holds a set of queue cards in one hand, his other hand playing around with the microphone that sits in front of his face.

The setting is somewhat simple, two plain-coloured chairs opposite to each other, with a few lights strung above the seats and a glowing sign with ‘Idol Time’ scrawled over it, in a space-themed font.

Cody waits a couple of beats before saying the opening line, with the most enthusiasm he could possibly muster, “Welcome to Idol Time, the only interview show you need to worry about and the best interview show you’ve ever seen. Obviously, hosted by the Shin Junseo. Or Cody, whatever works!”

“Here we are. Episode one of Idol Time and honestly, I can’t believe I’ve gotten far enough to have my own show.” He laughs in mock sadness, wiping away faux tears. “But anyways! I'd like to introduce the first guest of the show, my favourite member of Venus and a very familiar face, Chloe Lee!” Chloe, right on cue and clearly rehearsed, walks into frame and sits down in the velvet blue chair placed next to Cody’s. “Hiii everyone! So nice to be here!” Chloe says cooly into the mic, waving to the camera with an excited but nervous smile.

“So? What are your thoughts so far?” Cody questions, clearly overjoyed by her presence. She nods slightly in response. "I'm very excited to be here, actually! Super excited to tell everyone about the album and everything in between.” She's not really excited to do either of those things but Chloe manages to pretend she is.

“Great! I was a little nervous having someone as famous as you on here, but I’m glad we’ve started off well.” Chloe chuckles quietly at Cody’s response, covering her mouth with her hand, politely. Smoothly, Cody introduces the next question. “You’ve been working hard recently, I’m sure everyone’s seen your face around a lot. Starzie especially, has been a big hit in the past few weeks, how was your debut?” His lips twitch to form a tight smile as he grips onto the queue cards, the mention of Starzie bringing back a few somber memories.

“Oh Starzie is...So much fun! Um, it's a lot to be promoting at the same time as Venus but it's fun. It was totally worth all that stress,” Chloe answers with a laugh, running her hand through her hair with a nod.

“I like working with everyone but Finn. He's a bit unpredictable," Chloe jokes with a playful smile before shrugging, “I was super excited to work with Doah and Poppy. Those two are so cool, especially Poppy. I really look up to her since she's the most experienced out of all of us. It's been super cool working with everyone and collaborating like that.”

Cody hums, nodding along to her words. “And I thought Finn was the most responsible member.” He responds to her joke, nudging Chloe’s shoulder. He tilts his head, preparing for the next question. “So I listened to the album and then again last week to refresh my memory and I absolutely loved it. Back 2 U and Beautiful Liar were my favourites but, we’re here to talk about you. Did you initially like the album and can we expect a comeback anytime soon?”

Chloe opens her mouth when asked about liking Starzie's debut before she inhales sharply, making an unsure face with a tilt of her head. Chloe laughs with a shrug, leaning back in her chair. “I mean! It's not what I'm used to! It's very loud! But I think we killed it. I liked working with the Starz especially on the B-sides. I think the B-sides are really where the album shines.” Cody silently agrees. He shifts in his chair before replying, “I like that about the album, though, It shows that a title track doesn’t need to carry the whole album to be a good listen, you know?” Chloe’s smile brightens with each word. “Exactly! You get it.”

Chloe continues, “I hope there’ll be a comeback soon! I hope we get a full album next time. Because, you know, promoting with those guys is super fun, I really enjoy it especially the girls--Oh, I love the girls. We're the show, really,” Chloe rambles, talking with her hands flippintly as she does so. “When we're backstage together, I always forget I'm not with Venus--It's such a weird feeling. Like, I'll look to my left to tell Bliss good luck and she's literally not there. It's Oliver. It's crazy. I love it! Just crazy, you know?”

“I know, we all get so used to a routine so when it changes it’s so weird.” He pauses, “You’re lucky, I bet it’s a nice change. I get so tired of promoting with my group every comeback. Love those guys though, don’t get me wrong.” He says, lightheartedly.

“Next question! We were on the same survival show, I killed it, You killed it, but I think we should be truthful about our experiences.” Cody starts, “Personally, I had a lot of fun, it was great and all, but there were some tough times. So I wanna know how you viewed it? Were things the same on and off camera?”

Chloe clicks her tongue as she looks up in thought, humming with an unsure expression.

"I wouldn't do it again. 'Wasn't my favorite experience," Chloe admits with a subtle shrug,

"You were there! You saw how stressful it was! Sorry 'bout that," Chloe laughs anxiously, giving a sheepish smile. "Yeah, I don't really...Like survival shows really put me in a bad headspace and I think that was really clear on the show. Like...l just wasn't doing well on that show. I wish I behaved differently...Sorry you had to experience that, Cody." She teases, reaching out and playfully putting her hand on his with a laugh.

Cody laughs along with her, shaking his head slowly. “It’s fine, Chloe. If I had to apologise for all the times I’d cussed out people in my life, I would be old and withering by the time I was done.” He stares at the camera awkwardly and the clip cuts to the next.

Cody clears his throat before continuing, eyes glued to his lap. “Do you—think anyone could’ve been rigged into Starzie?” Chloe pauses, looking down with a quirk of her lips.

“Um...l don't think so. No offense,” Chloe teases Cody again with a chuckle, trying not to look bored of the Starzie questions. He rolls his eyes in response, smiling sweetly straight after. “I thought there would be more boys, honestly. There's only two in the group and that was just barely...Maybe one of them was rigged in,” She speculates with a chuckle, “Finn was probably rigged in. I'm shocked SM didn't rig that Aespa girl in. I heard they tried but it didn't work out.” Chloe shrugs.

“I don't feel like being in a group called Starzie is that serious for rigging, you know?”

“Well, you heard it here first, everyone! Starzie is not a repeat of any of the Produce shows.” He voices, sending a jab their way. “Now, onto more pressing matters than a tortuous survival show, Venus! I also happened to love Venus Victrix, how were promotions?”

Chloe perks up at the mention of Venus, glad Cody’s moved on to a different topic. She sits up straighter and crosses her legs.

“They've been great! I love Venus!" Chloe laughs, smiling brightly. "It's been, you know, stressful with all the overlapping promotions but I'm coping! I'm growing...Everyday is a new adventure and I love that.”

“Any songs you disliked?” Cody entreats, his voice increasing in pitch as he asks. “Disliked? Um...l mean...7Seconds is kind of boring. It's not my favorite. Sorry to Noah. I know he liked that song but it just bores me. The rest of the album is flawless though. I'm really pleased with it.”

Cody blinks at the camera a couple of times before relaxing his face, a serious expression covering his usually bright smile. He quickly looks down and returns to the script “You’ve been talking about how stressed and overworked you are, I know it’s a sensitive topic. Is there anything you’d like to share with viewers?”

Chloe deflates slightly with sigh, nodding in defeat. She looks up, inhaling sharply though her teeth as she starts to pull out her acting skills.

“I've always had, um, struggles with my mental health. When you've been an idol for as long as I have—l've literally been doing this for eight years,” Chloe emphasizes how long she's been working, looking back at Cody with a forced smile. “You go through lows and I...l'm in a low. It's just...It's been really hard juggling everything—“ Chloe makes herself get chokes up, voice breaking pathetically making her look away and dab the inner corners of her teary eyes, sniffling.

“And it's so strange because I should be really happy! Venus is doing amazing, Starzie is doing well, everything I do is great, but I just wake up and feel like I'm stuck and I hate it.”

It's so—“ Chloe struggles to think of a word, taking a deep breath through her nose before deflating with a defeated shrug. “I don't know.” She sighs, silently looking away.

“I was diagnosed with, um, PTSD recently so l think, maybe, that has something to do with it? But, yeah, it hasn't been easy lately.”

Cody looks at Chloe, giving her a sort of sad-sympathetic smile. Chloe doesn’t pay this any mind and simply signals for him to continue, which he does. “Thank you, Chloe. I hope things get easier for you, don’t feel like you have to be happy because everyone and everything around you is.” He replies, earnestly. “Now, fans have been asking and would love to know, What’s your Ideal type?”

Chloe blinks at the question, no matter how hard she tries she looks agitated at the question. She pushes out air through her nose in lieu of a laugh.

“My ideal type is someone who works hard, is tall, strong, and will protect me,” Chloe lists, bouncing her leg anxiously as she thinks over the fan question. She can't stop herself from smiling because she knows where this is going. Cody hums again in response and decides then to attempt to cut to the point of all these previous questions. “So, would you date a fan?”

Chloe shrugs and replies simply. “I mean, fans are just people. Why not?” Cody’s not sure he can agree with that one, but he pretends like he can anyways. He takes a slow breath before proceeding to read off of his script once more, “There’s been some rumours floating around, and I wanted to be the first to ask you about them. Anything about you and a popular fansite you’d like to tell us about?”

Chloe chuckles when he says "popular" quickly going back to a neutral face. She looks at the camera then back at Cody, shaking her head.

“It's been a really hard few months. So, I wasn't making the most wise of decisions but I mean,” Chloe throws her hands out before dropping them on her thighs, “He's a grown man. I'm a grown woman. I don't see the drama in this? Everyone just overreacts at the smallest of things. We went on a date,” Chloe confesses to the camera despite the distressed look on her manager's face from behind the camera. “Like a singular date. Sue me. I think a man my age is cute and want to have a drink with him.” Chloe dismisses with a sigh, leaning back in her chair. “Every idol is dating someone. Get over it.”

Cody snorts. “Little overprotective to be just one date.” Chloe sends him a quick and discreet glare that makes Cody immediately quiet down. “No, you’re right.” The clip comically cuts there and begins to play the final segment.

“To wrap everything up, Is there anything else you’d like to say to the viewers?” He asks, “Or maybe some future plans you want fans to know about?”

“Yeah!” Chloe forms a heart with her hands, beaming at the camera. "Dulce, I love you!” She laughs, blowing a kiss towards the screen.

“Oh! After Venus Victrix wraps up...l'm going to be releasing my first solo album!" Chloe announces with an excited smile, giving a thumbs up to the camera. “There will be a lot of Venus solos so keep an eye out! We're all very excited to share them with you guys!”

Cody cheers eagerly at the news and pumps his fist in the air for exaggeration. “A win for me.”

Chloe laughs at Cody’s gesture and now gives finger hearts, smiling sweetly to the camera with a tilt of her head to look cute.

“Thank you so much for having me! I love talking so thank you for listening! I'll see you all soon!” She blows a kiss to the camera one last time before waving.

“Thank you for watching and supporting Idol Time, See you next time!” Cody finishes, giving the final words of the Episode to Chloe.

“Stream Venus Victrix, Cush by Starzie, and follow me on Instagram at ChloeLee! Thank you! Bye byeee~”

[lonewolflink]

your enthusiasm for itzy has reignited my interest in listening to kpop i MISSED this… like wow it’s just. really bright and fun!! <3 i love seeing gifs of the girls on my dash! i was a hyper casual fan who was never too into them outside of liking the music, but they seem lovely 💙

what are they up to lately? do you have any listening recs? :3

- puckpocketed on main 🦈

puck!! hello friend!!!! (trying out puck as a shortened name a la link but you lmk if something else is better)

i am so pleased that you are being infected with my itzy brainrot. maybe i should be more sorry about about it but alas, i love them, so i cannot find it in myself to be sorry. more under the cut!

i would say that not only are my girls lovely, they are Freaks (affectionate). tbh it is what led me to stan. they are so weird and i love them so much. i once answered an ask (also here) about how i got into itzy that i think scratches some of the surface of what i enjoy about them.

what has itzy been up to lately? well the last couple years have been a bit of a rollercoaster for the team. after a pretty serious kpop social media hate train following one of their comebacks (though evidence suggests the hate train started earlier), things were a bit rough. the company seemed to be simultaneously creatively mismanaging/poorly promoting the group while also overworking them—a recipe for disaster that culminated in main vocalist lia going on indefinite hiatus for anxiety issues in september 2023 (or as i like to call it, LTIR).

in her absence, as a foursome, itzy recorded a 10 track album called "Born to Be" and then went on a global tour for it, but with a twist! five of the 10 songs would be the first SOLO songs written by each member and performed individually (sans lia on tour of course). lia's song might honestly be the best of the five (though i probably listen to chaeryeong's the most). they're all quite different and i would STRONGLY recommend them:

-Crown on My Head (Yeji) -Blossom (Lia) -Run Away (Ryujin) -Mine (Chaeryeong) -Yet, But (Yuna)

the solo songs for the active members at the time also have like partial/mini-music videos that are up on youtube and are pretty cool (ryujin's or yuna's are probably my favorite? but it's hard to choose. yeji and chaeryeong also ate). you can, of course, listen to the other songs on that album...but i wouldn't. and that's because with lia now activated off LTIR, the other 5 songs that were recorded with the four active members have been RE-RECORDED WITH LIA and will be dropping as part of their new album coming out next week (oct 15th!). all those songs are good but "mr. vampire" is the one to look out for. the beat is weird, the vibes are excellent, and lia's voice is going to sound amazing on it.

in general, the new comeback feels...different, at least in its rollout so far. above i mentioned mismanagement and poor promotion by the company, and rumor has it that after the last album the division in charge of itzy got like. fired. wholly. and replaced with new employees (GM FIRED AFTER TOO MANY SEASONS OF NOT MAKING THE PLAYOFFS kinda vibes). the new look JYP Division 2 is like...kinda doing great??? there's clearly an actual cohesive (if bizarre) creative direction for this upcoming album, which feels new and fresh, there's been a lot of thought clearly put into Aesthetic rather than just "green screen something flashy and uh. the girls always look hot so just put them in some fashionable clothes i guess".

in sum: this is kind of an exciting time to be following itzy. it feels like we're on the precipice of a bit of a rebirth, which is quite rare with kpop girl groups in particular, who tend to rise and fall with the extremely fickle general public opinion of koreans.

some song recommendations/partial guide to itzy's discography!

let's start with their title tracks/singles:

—girl crush/dark/gym playlist music (aka cuntzy) -dalla dalla (debut single) -wannabe (biggest hit) -mafia in the morning (my personal favorite mv of theirs) -ringo (japanese track, low key sick mv. or maybe it's just yeji w a sword for me...idk) -voltage (japanese track, i LOVE this song, even more than ringo) -blah blah blah (japanese track)

—cute/fun/femme/doing your thing (aka funzy)

-icy (bop) -sneakers (supposed start of their demise, but it's fun and cute? people are haters) -boys like you (your mileage may vary, people love/hate this) -cake (UNDERAPPRECIATED BOP) -algorhythm (japanese track, the dance break in the mv is sick)

—hard to categorize bc they're not dark/girl crush but they are gym playlist (to me) -not shy (ITZYYYYYYY) -loco (this song just slaps idk man) -cheshire (justice for cheshire i love this song)

in no particular order, top 10 standout b-sides (in my opinion...though i should say most of their b-sides are really fucking good): 1. none of my business (the way i need itzy to do more r&b u have no idea. also the mv with the matching fits is SO 90s early 00s r&b groups i love it so much) 2. cherry (girl crush perfection, gym playlist staple) 3. bet on me (this song got me through my phd. mv is imo outstanding. meaningful song generally, but to itzy in particular after the hate train) 4. kidding me/shoot/sorry not sorry (i'm cheating by putting three songs here but they're all from the same EP and go SO well together) 5. snowy (this is MY christmas song) 6. kill shot (i want shin ryujin to decapitate me. women in suits??) 7. nobody like you (quintessential early itzy) 8. bratty (they invented being a brat, charlie xcx who) 9. psychic lover (fan favorite, just a great song, they smile so fucking hard when they perform it live it's so cute) 10. weapon (not even a song from an album, they recorded it for some dance competition show to use. STAPLE on my gym playlist) honorable japanese discography mentions:

-no biggie (japanese) -sugarholic (japanese) -spice (japanese)

OK THAT'S WHAT I'VE GOT FOR YOU SORRY IT'S SO LONG

I WILL ALSO STRONGLY RECOMMEND LISTENING TO NMIXX'S LAST TWO EPS THEY ARE REALLY GOOD AND THEIR VOCALS ARE CRAZY

[tomorrowxtogether]

Tomorrow X Together on new music, US tour: 'Never expected' fans to show 'this much love'

Members of Tomorrow X Together, the wildly popular K-pop group, have come of age during a rapid ascension in the music industry. Quickly after the quintet debuted in 2019, they started winning top awards and peaking on both Korean and American charts. Last year, the group's third album hit No. 3 on the Billboard 200, they headlined Lollapalooza and won a MTV Music Video Award.

Since their beginning, TXT's music has kept to the narrative of a boy's journey through life. As the members themselves have matured in the spotlight, the process of growing up has been influential for the discography.

Just as people reach reflection points on the cusp of moving from one part of life into the next, TXT's newest release, "minisode 3: TOMORROW," finds the guys contemplating their past and hoping for the future.

"This album is all about being reminded of the promises of the past and going on a search for 'you' who I shared a promise with," Taehyun, 22, told USA TODAY.

'minisode 3: TOMORROW' furthers Tomorrow X Together's narrative

This album is Tomorrow X Together's third under the "minisode" title. These releases have always been a bridge that connects the larger chapters in quintet's music.

As for "minisode 3: TOMORROW", it speaks about life and reality, said Soobin, 23, the group's leader.

The new album references Tomorrow X Together's prior moments, highlighting how nostalgia intersects with growth.

"We had a look back on some of the lyrics of our past songs and the music videos like 'Nap of a star'," said Taehyun. Lyrics in the lead single "Deja Vu" also give nods to some of the group's first singles "9 and Three Quarters (Run Away)" and "CROWN".

With this album, the members wanted to capture their unique identifying quality: Storytelling.

Over the years, the members have become more involved in the creative process, said Hueningkai, 21. "As we try and channel our honest, personal stories into the album, I think it helps me realize more and more who I am as an artist."

Understanding Tomorrow X Together's creative process

The members have become more ambitious when it comes to sharing their perspectives within their songs. "Rather than drawing inspiration from an outside source, I think it provided us with an opportunity to look back on our own lives," said Soobin.

"It's a crucial part that we cannot miss out on in order to make sure our stories more compelling and convincing," said Taehyun.

In particular "Deja Vu" is full of impact, said Beomgyu, 23, exhibiting "how much we've grown and how far we've come." The song infuses rage and emo rock, underscoring TXT's versatile sonic range.

Tomorrow X Together US tour, reflecting on debut anniversary

In support the latest release, TXT is set to embark on its third US tour May 14. The group will be performing in eight cities including Los Angeles, New York City and Washington D.C.

The members are looking forward to seeing their fans and visiting cities they haven't been to yet. As for the shows, Beomgyu said there's "so much in store," adding, "I'm excited to show you guys what we have prepared."

The group celebrated its half-decade anniversary March 4. The last five years have been filled with many accomplishments and accolades. Stand-outs included performing at stadiums for Soobin to attending and performing at the MTV VMAs for Beomgyu.

For Yeonjun, 24, he is thankful the members have made it safely to this point and he hopes to continue this in the future.

"The most important thing would be that we will still be together all the members and our beloved MOA," said Yeonjun. "My hope is that a decade into our debut, we would still be dancing and singing in front of our fans together."

On theme with "minisode 3: TOMORROW" and its reflection of the past, the members are proud of how far they have come.

"I never expected that I would end up receiving this much love and I think it's a huge blessing and I'm so grateful for that," said Yeonjun.

[solarwynd]

https://www.tumblr.com/solarwynd/763249238051340288/httpsxcomsasagnngstatus1841484892216893564s?source=share

Sorry but Joon, while clearly dissatisfied with how his solo career is going, responded by negotiating better promo and collabs after indigo and making posts about signing his shiny new contract for "2025 and beyond 💜" and stuff. JK is clearly not going anywhere, Yoongi's a Hybe yes man whose album was prioritised over a more popular member, got a big concert tour, doc worldwide screening and Hobi got a lot of stuff for his solo era too - mama performances, 2 solo albums, Lola, jcole collab and 2 documentaries and he'll probably go on tour once he's back from enlistment too. Hybe screwed with Hobi and RM at times but if you take everything into account, I still think overall they'd probably not leaving. Jins is not yet known so not going to say anything yet but so far it's all positive vibes between Jin and Hybe.

Now Tae is number 1 contender to leave. A lot of his projects seem to be outside of Hybe and with his friend network. He's been given some stuff but overall his support was pretty mid. I think he has some outside support which is why he gets some spon award nominations and that's about it. For me Jimin is number 2. I think there's some reasons to believe it's not true - jimins nature isn't one to make that kind of move imo, plus his attachment to the Hybe producers (sgmb), and arguably his second album is better promoted. I'm still iffy about him though because Hybe really really hates promoting him. They still won't get certifications for him or post an article about his hot 100 performance without mentioning 100 other people and the mediaplay with relation to him from Hybe is extremely off. They've given him a few more versions this time but it's only sustaining thanks to fans. They move really weird with him. Yeah maybe someone at Hybe hates him but Jimin's not a mouthy guy. I'm so confused why someone would have something personal against him. And maybe his contract isn't as beneficial for Hybe as JK (whose entire branding seems to be under them) but surely Jimin's would be more valuable than Hobi for instance. Him leaving wouldn't be completely insane I guess.

Anyway my ranking for members leaving is-

1. Taehyung

2. Jimin

3. Namjoon

4. JHope

5. Yoongi

6. JK

(not putting Jin yet)

Of course the actual number one possibility is that none of them leave at all 😑

True on Joon. To me though, it honestly does seem like the idol life has run its course for him and he’s doing it out of obligation to BTS and armys more than an actual honest desire to continue in the group. Also, even if he was to leave, his only option would to become a genuine industry plant to see significantly better numbers, cause the fan interest still wouldn’t be there.

I agree with the list for the most part. I still wouldn’t put Jimin that high not because I think he’s content with how BH is treating him, but similar to Joon. Stick it out because his love for the group.

[roadyblr]

HIIIII i wanted to ask you what xikers album i should get 😭 i dont have xikers albums but i want to buy some for christmas ( ik christmas is in 3-2 months but i have to like prepare myself 🥲) SO I BASICLLY DONT KNOW WHAT XIKERS ALBUM IS THE BEST TO BUY SOO COULD YOU GIVE ME SOME KIND OF ADVICE OR TELL ME WHICH ONE TO BUY ?!?!

(idk why but this sounds so weird😭😭)

no no it doesn't sound weird at all! 💜💜

so i can't exactly tell you definitively which one you should get like "ah yes this is the best one" bc personal preference but i can hopefully give you enough information to try and help?? if that helps?? imo it should come down to -do you like the songs on the album? -do you like the vibe/concepts of the album?

HOUSE OF TRICKY: Doorbell Ringing xikers debut album, big hitter imo and no that's not just because i miss junghoon (i miss junghoon) but also my love of oh my gosh as a track probably makes me weigh this a bit heavily in comparison

I had to go on a hunt for the group concept photos but Tricky vs Hiker vers and this is where i tell which one i'm partial to but its pretty even for these ones there are two other versions (Nemo and Platform) and both concepts are that of the rockstar mv

HOUSE OF TRICKY: How to Play so there's something brighter about this album and it's not just the colors, the vibe as a whole is just something more summer (august release album go figure) song standouts for roadyblr admin are Sunny Side, Run, and Koong

Tricky vs Hiker vers, i am once again riding the fence but i'm attached to punk yechan as a vibe and no outfit has topped that so i'm picking tricky for the sake of this post-

this is where i say the above albums also came with wide polaroids and i just point that out because i think that's cute

HOUSE OF TRICKY: Trial and Error ahhh We Don't Stop is so aerosmith ft run dmc coded like- possibly controversial and i don't mean this in a bad way when i say that sonically to me this is the most varied(?) title track is very 90s hip hop, Red Sun is a lot harder, Supercalifragilistic is more club vibes, i dont think i could describe Break a Leg and Every Flavor Jelly in a way that would do them justice im already butching the first three roadyblr admin faves: supercalifragilistic and red sun

Tricky vers vs Hiker (like with how to play there are two other concepts split between them but one of them didnt have a group photo so i just picked the main two) for this album also the tricky version comes with a little cardboard standee of the members and the hiker vs has a id card

HOUSE OF TRICKY: Watch Out I don't think I have enough time to properly go over how much i like watch out or the ability to form the words to express it? like there's so much i enjoy about watch out as a whole roadyblr admin track picks: back off is my top favorite like its so close to dethroning the current queen and sandcastle

Unlike HTP and TAE there's only one concept per album but there are THREE versions So Tricky vers vs X vers vs Hiker vers there is a plve vers but if i say anything about it kq's gonna send me a cease and desist- anyway X vers is best imo, but tricky is like very close

So if you got this far here's roadyblr admin's album ranking sonically (don't lynch me this hurts me)

1. Doorbell Ringing = Watch Out 2. How to Play 3. Trial and Error

And for no reason in particular than my need to have opinions top 5 concepts 1. How to Play Tricky vers 2. Watch Out X vers 3. Trial and Error Hikers vers (the suits/chessboard one that i didnt show) 4. How to Play Hikers vers 5. Doorbell Ringing Tricky Vers

And if this still hasnt helped and you just want me to pick: Watch Out and Doorbell Ringing

[baek-at-it-again95]

Walk The Plank (K.HJ x fem reader)

Chapter 1: The Man in the Black Fedora

You had grown up hearing tales about the infamous pirate crew ATEEZ—the fearless, power-hungry men that roamed the seas in search of the most valuable treasures they could lay their hands on. You almost didn't believe the stories your mother had told you as a child...not until you wound up on their ship.

Warnings: Mentions of blood, weapons, and violence

A/N: Hello everyone! I am so excited to post another story! I have most of it written, but I will be posting a little at a time so I can edit. I just really wanted to get something posted before my school starts again! <3 Thank you for reading :) ALSO: though this says that it is hongjoong x reader, it is more of an ateez x reader fic until later on ;) each chapter will be titled after the specific member’s pcs from the zero: fever part 1 album.

Chapter 1: The Man in the Black Fedora

Your favorite activity is sitting in the crow's nest before the crew rises for the day. You inhale a deep breath of the sea breeze that pushes back your hair and tickles your neck. The salty scent isn't as bothersome as it was when you first started sailing. In fact, you might consider saying that you find it quite pleasant.

You have been at sea for about two weeks, seeking the Cromer. It is said to possess magic that exists beyond time and space. Your father had dreamed of getting his hands on such a powerful magic artifact, doing years of extensive research and trips to obtain it. This was the first time he had agreed to let you go on a voyage without him, as he had politics to deal with in your hometown—something you have never been fond of. 

"Good morning, miss Y/N," says the barrelman, halfway up the ladder that leads to where you're perched. 

"Good morning. Tell me, have we any good books?" you ask.

"I'm afraid you have read all of the fictional literature we have. The only option left for you would be to read more into the research of magical artifacts...which I am sure you are bored of."

"Oh, I could never be bored of such things. I shall take a look." You bid your farewell and carefully climb down the ladder. Growing up, you had done your fair share of reading your father's research. How could one not be curious of a concept such as magic? You weave your way around the now awoken crew, making it as far as the door of the captain's cabin before a shout resonates from the crow's nest. 

"PIRATES!" The barrelman cries, pointing beyond the horizon.

Men immediately scurry to set up defenses, taking position at canons and masts. You assume action yourself, running up to an unoccupied canon. Chaos erupts around you as the crew shouts and awaits the captain's orders.

"Miss, what are you doing? We have to get you below deck!" The frantic sailing master grabs your arm, pulling you towards a hatch.

"I have to help—"

"Miss, please take cover. I cannot forgive myself lest anything unfortunate happen to you. Your father instructed us to take the most precautionary measures to keep you from harm." The man pleads, the desperation in his eyes growing as you think. You nod and he wastes no time escorting you below deck. Just before you step down, you catch a glimpse of the invaders sailing towards you. The sight makes you sick to your stomach—a flag at the bowsprit with the phases of the moon thrashes in the wind. 

"But I—"

"Just stay quiet, Miss. If something happens, take an escape boat." The sailing master hands you a compass and disappears to the deck above. You hide under a table in the crew's quarters, knees tucked to your chest for what seems like an eternity.

Several gun shots ring from above deck.

Then several more. 

Swords clash together, footsteps boom, men shout. Your heart races as you await any sign of safety to escape. If that flag was what you think it was—a flag of legend, of fear, of them...your chances of surviving are not likely. And then the footsteps travel below deck. The floorboards creak painfully and you shut your eyes, breath hitching. You would have thought that they would go to the captain's quarters to raid the research, but maybe they're here to raid other supplies.

Thud. A footstep sounds in your direction. Thud. Thud. You don't time to act before a large hand reaches and pulls you straight up out of your hiding spot. 

"It be a maiden!" The man shouts. 

"Unhand me you filthy pirate!" you yell, squirming in his grasp.

"Aye, Yunho, that's some good loot." Another man with dark hair snickers. Struggling against your captor's grip does nothing as the second man comes over and binds your wrists behind your back with rope. You silently think of your escape options, avoiding eye contact with the two men that now have a grip on either of your arms. They drag you up to the deck where the battle continues on. 

The crew remains engaged in combat and hardly notice as the man called Yunho and his giggly companion pull you to a wooden plank between the ships. 

"Well, Miss, after you." Yunho bows, gesturing towards the board. The second man giggles.

"Walk!" He laughs. You consider your options. You could attempt to defy them, risking your life. You could jump overboard...which would avoid dying at the hands of them, but...you really do not wish to drown. Or you can submit for now and wait to possibly escape with your life. "Are ya hard of hearing, little miss? I said walk." The shorter man with the dark hair nudges you and you stumble forward, legs wobbly as you approach the wooden plank.

Do not look down...do not look down...

Step by step, you cross the small space between the two ships, only stopping to breathe once your feet touch the new deck. There is barely any time to collect yourself before the two men take hold of your arms again and head for the captain's quarters. Though you have decided to board their ship, you will not be letting them think they've gotten away with it so easily. You kick and struggle, making it harder for Yunho and his mate to manhandle you.

"We brought you some treasure, Captain," Yunho says, gripping your arm tighter as they bring you inside.

"A feisty one." The other man snickers. You wince as they push you onto your knees, your wrists still bound and unable to catch your weight.

"Watch yourself Wooyoung, you'll hurt her," the man you assume to be the captain warns. So that's his name.

You keep your eyes trained on the scuffed floor in front of you, not wanting to meet the gaze of the captain you have heard brutal tales of. Tying people to masts for mutiny, burning towns after looting, feeding people to sharks...those were the tales of caution your father would tell you. Your mother, on the other hand, told you of brave adventurers, working endlessly to achieve what they had set their sights on. Misunderstood, driven, and admirable. Had she been talking about the same crew? You hope with all your heart that your mother was right. 

"You are dismissed," the captain says. He waits silently as Yunho and Wooyoung take their leave. Once the door shuts, you hear his footsteps circle around his desk. His heavy black boots adorned with buckles enter your peripheral and stop right in front of you. "Do you have a name, Miss?" His voice is light, yet intimidating. Judging by his proper speech, you come to the conclusion that he must be well educated—not raised a pirate.

"Why is my name of concern to you?" you ask through gritted teeth, keeping your eyes to the floor.

"Well, you see, I was hoping you would be able to tell me why you were aboard such a corrupt ship."

"Corrupt? That is nonsense." 

"Nonsense?" The captain repeats, amusement evident in his voice. "You were willingly aboard?" He chuckles.

"Why, of course. We are searching for something very valuable to my father."

"Ah, the Cromer?" he asks. You debate whether or not you should tell the truth, but you ultimately decide he will find out sooner or later after raiding your ship.

"Yes, the Cromer."

"You must be a L/N, I presume." You whip your head to look up at him, taken by surprise. As you meet his gaze, you almost forget what you are going to say. The man in front of you is breathtaking—not at all how you had imagined the scary and insufferable man to be. His messy brown hair is fashioned in a mullet, his body covered with a beautiful fur coat. His sharp features and pale skin are difficult to tear your eyes away from. An eye patch covers his left eye and a hook takes the place of his left hand.

"How do you know of me?" you demand.

"Your father has done a great deal of reaching to obtain what he desires...and I cannot say he is a fair man."

"My father? Corrupt?" You scoff. "How dare you?"

"'Tis no tale that we have crossed paths." His expression becomes grim as he recalls. "He stole my map."

You process his accusation, wondering if you can even take his word. How can you trust an infamous pirate making such ludicrous claims about your father? Is your father really an unjust man or is the man in front of you? "That has nothing to do with me," you state. 

"Oh, but it does. Coming from a well-off family, I am sure your parents had you read their studies. You must have knowledge that is valuable to us. If you help us, I will spare the rest of your crew." He takes a hold of your chin with his fingers, some of which are adorned with colored polish. You stand up slowly and he lets go as you come level with his gaze. 

"You promise?" you ask. What has gotten into you? Making a deal? With pirates? This is mad...but you simply cannot bare for any more harm to be done. 

 "I swear on my crew," he answers, his one eye boring into you.

"Alright...I accept. However, you will not infringe my safety as you take me along on your voyage."

"I can do that," the captain replies. He swiftly turns and exits the door with his coat flowing at his feet. You can hear orders being shouted outside, followed by dozens of footsteps. You shuffle over to the captain's desk in fear of someone new discovering you alone. 

As you hear multiple people approaching, your heart rate speeds up and your breath gets caught in your throat. Suddenly, a man kicks open the door, standing tall in front of about seven others with his bloodied cutlass. Three of the faces around him are those of the men you had previously encountered.

"Alright wench, let's lay down a few rules for you."

>> chapter 2

[foxydivaxx]

Idol Sanji headcanons part 2

- He has multiple personas which you can see in his songs:

Mr Prince (yes that Mr Prince): His default persona. His pop star persona who is sweet but also dangerous and sexy in a cold calculated manner

King Nasty: his inner slut. This is the persona most people are familiar with

Brooklyn Rage: This is his inner gangster. Like if he is in this mode, bitch run

- He has the foulest mouth of the Strawhats. He is rapper no surprises

- He enjoys being a bratty sub which makes Zoro’s work even harder

- He has a lot of sex toys hidden in his room

- He has a lot of cars

- He shakes his ass a lot xD

- Zoro is more than his baby daddy and lover. He is his best friend

- He is worse than Nami in regards to the love of money. Yeah he loves the cash

- He was once a stripper during his younger years and did that to hustle for money

- He deep down does not value himself

- He often masturbates to videos and photos of Zoro

- He always does the more sluttier photoshoots

- He started smoking at the age 12 as a coping mechanism

- He loves clubbing

- According to Lelouch, Sanji had the highest grades of all the trainees under their label years ago and he was the most popular trainee at the time

- He is the member of Aogiri with the most collaborations for obvious reasons

- He suffered from an eating disorder that would later rebound during his idol years

- He used to hate his looks and body and wondered why anyone would want him. Still struggles with that today

- He and his dad both released albums on the same day. He ended up outselling the old man which greatly angered Judge

- He does not use the Vinsmoke name. Instead he uses his mother’s maiden name as his surname

-He sees Luffy and Chopper as his little brothers

-All those moans and orgasms he does in his songs? Those are not fake according to him. According to him, he masturbates in the studio to create those sounds

-He is an ATL dude due to spending most of his time growing up there even though he was born in New York but moved down to ATL with Zeff with his siblings

-His mother got shot by his dad when he was 3 years old. He rapped about this, literally destroying his dad and exposing the truth about the old man and destroying his reputation and ending Judge's career. A lot of people mock Judge, saying that his son is more gangster than he is. Judge has tried to hurt Sanji but his plans always backfire

- His mother was a pop star and was in a famous girl group before launching a successful musical career. So Sanji inherited all his talent from his parents but he got his mother’s looks, kindness and charisma

-He has been a victim of domestic and sexual abuse, first at the hands of his dad and later a lot of his exes

-Jojo's villain club are huge fans of his

-In fact every single villain you could think of love this guy to the point where many consider his songs "The Ultimate Villain Playbook." since he tends to play a villainous role in his songs since the character he seems to exude is a sexy evil Homme fatale

-As far as he is concerned, he is an all round entertainer. All that matters is that everyone has fun

-He was and still is the main moneymaker and breadwinner for the family for years because Ichiji unfortunately got shot but survived whilst selling newspapers on the streets

-The biggest scandal involving Sanji was an old sex tape of his from his stripper days resurfacing online. Pudding leaked it thanks to Judge but the plan backfired as that sextape made him even more popular than ever as it helped cement Sanji's sex symbol status

-He has the video with the highest amount of views on YouTube thanks to said sex tape scandal (Might as well add this to my fanfic)

- Don’t even dare try to sabotage him and his friends. He will destroy you

- There was one part in one of his songs that more or less defines him as a person:

Sticks and stones may break my bones,

But I am no lazybones,

Motherfucker left me for dead,

Yet I still stand,

You asked me why I do this shit?

This life goes way beyond making hits,

Started off as a poor weakling,

These days I answer to the name King

- He has a tattoo on his back close to his ass and has one on his ankle

- Sanji’s character’s stance towards women and feeding others is a reflection of real life Sanji’s past. The guy has been a victim of abuse for years and also his character’s interactions with women in the show is as a result of the things women like Pudding had done to him in the past

- He loves leather especially leather catsuits and wears those a lot

- During his Aogiri days, Sanji was not Sanji without his famous round shaped glasses. So many young idols would later emulate the style for years to come. Also his signature leather catsuits have made apperances in a variety of videos ever since

-He looks just like his mother

[tending-the-hearth]

The outsiders obc album: a review that is totally not biased or skewed due to the face that i’ve been listening to it nonstop since it came out two weeks ago

“Tulsa ��67”

Goes insane over the first line of the song because it’s the same as the opening of the book

Since this song/story is being written after everything happens, ponyboy recognizing how hard his brothers work in the opening verse makes SO much sense

“That right there is my best friend in the whole world, johnny cade” idk what it is about this line but it just makes me so happy

But ponyboy pointing out that part of what makes a soc a soc is graduation parties actually makes me so sad because so many members of the gang ended up dropping out of school in order to work so of course they’d view graduating as a privilege they don’t have, and that plays so well into darry and pony’s last fight at the end of the show

“CAUSE WE’RE GREASERS” the silliest gang ever <3

It’s just such a good opening number, the beat and music is so entertaining

“Grease got a Hold”

JOSHUA BOONE YOU ARE THE DALLY EVER

Him constantly calling pony “little brother” is everything

The spelling section of the song is SO fun

“E is for effortless swagger” and soda uses ponyboy and johnny to hold himself up they’re his little brothers!!!

“Show us how it’s done, then, einstein!” soda and two-bit are best friends!!!!

Also daryl tofa absolutely killing it on the run of “you better run for your life”

You only really get this from seeing the song live, but darry keeps ponyboy away from the rest of the gang during his section of the song until he makes sure that ponyboy knows what being a greaser truly means, he is such a big brother

“I love you superman” ace ily ily ily kissing your cheeks

Again, not part of the soundtrack but the performance, but the moment where ponyboy gets the upper hand in his little play-fight with two-bit, and dally gets so excited and starts jumping up and down with the rest of the gang like they are siblings!!!

“Runs in the Family”

Darry loml i know you’re having an identity crisis but this song is such a vibe

“So i dropped out of school cause i had to earn a dollar” the little dance i do every time i hear this line

vibes to the song so i don’t have to deal with the emotions i get as a parentified older sibling identifying with this song far too closely

“Now i’m stuck between the role of a brother and a father” someone get this man a hug and some therapy PLEASE I’M BEGGING YOU

I always love a little bit of an unreliable narrator, so the audience hearing this song and knowing how much darry is struggling, meanwhile ponyboy is SO sure and SO positive that darry truly doesn’t care about him is absolute perfection

“Great Expectations”

This song literally made me cry my eyes out the first time i listened to it, and then seeing the staging for it during the show??? 

But also ponyboy acknowledging that darry had a future, and how he had to sacrifice that after their parents died, and understanding his struggle

Honestly there aren’t words to describe my love for this song, it’s so beautiful and well-written, and brody’s voice is just so fantastic

“Friday at the Drive-In”

Again, the beat of this song is SO good!!!

emma pittman’s voice is everything to me

The instrumental for this song is “grease got a hold” i’m losing my mind!!!

This song is also just such a fun, easy-going song, that it works at feeling slightly out of place with how fun and lighthearted it is, especially knowing what’s going to happen soon

"I Could Talk to You All Night"

CUTIE PATOOTIE ALERT

I never have viewed cherry and ponyboy as having romantic interest in each other (maybe ponyboy with a little crush on her, but they become friends post-book events), and this song is just so perfect with showing why they connect with each other, because they understand each other

Have i mentioned how much i adore musical!cherry??? 

“And we talked so dang much i didn’t even catch the end” i love how perfect the accents are in this show, it’s really satisfying lmao 

Cherry being the first one who’s ever truly listened to ponyboy my heart hurts

“Runs in the Family (Reprise)”

AHHHH THIS SONG

There’s just so much tension, and soda trying to be the middle man like always while darry is singing??? Painful

But also this song does such a good job at showing that it’s not even been a full year since the curtis parents died, so the boys are still grieving and processing, so it makes sense that this is a fight that’s happening

But ugh the way that the song ends with the slap???? Curled up sobbing

“Far Away from Tulsa”

I LOVE THIS SONG SO MUCH

I also really love how johnny joins in a little hesitantly, like he’s not sure if ponyboy wants him contributing, but then as soon as he starts he talks about having a little garden and reading stories

Now i’m thinking about post-book, the remaining outsiders gang turns the empty lot into a type of community garden in johnny and dally’s honor oh i’m going to be ill

“We’d be each other’s family, Pony, start this life anew” SOBBING MY EYES OUT JOHNNY KNOWING EXACTLY WHAT PONYBOY WANTS AND PONYBOY KNOWING WHAT JOHNNY WANTS THEY’RE THE PLATONIC SOULMATES EVER

God and then the song going into “great expectations” literal chills

“Run Run Brother”

Brody does Ponyboy’s panic SO perfectly you can feel his fear when he just keeps repeating “he stuck him in the back!”

Like he’s not freaking out about bob dying, he’s freaking out about the fact that johnny could get arrested

Mother hen Dally my beloved

“I hate to make you go” and “even though it kills me to say” those lines are everything, i love Dally just wanting to keep his little brothers close but knowing he needs to get them somewhere safe immediately

And the line “you’re a greaser now” getting repeated at the end???? I’m going insane, it doesn’t sound fun or happy anymore, it just sounds like a warning and almost like johnny and ponyboy are being taunted

“Justice for Tulsa”

Dally immediately calling out the cops for always going after the greasers and calling them his boys???? Obsessed with protective dally

Again, musical!cherry is everything to me, she doesn’t try to make excuses for what Bob did, she calls him and Randy out for drinking and ganging up on Ponyboy and Johnny, and calls Randy out for jumping Johnny the week before

Like in the book and movie she makes excuses and puts all the blame on johnny, but in the musical, even though she’s sad that bob’s dead, she understands why johnny did what he did, and doesn’t blame him for what happened

“Death’s at my Door”

Emotional damage

Jesus CHRIST the absolute slap in the face this song was during the show

Ponyboy blaming himself for everything??? Thinking he’s cursed because everyone he loves keeps dying or getting hurt??? Ouch???

But then johnny immediately jumping into reassure him and making sure ponyboy knows that he’s not alone??? They are the best friends ever???

I haven’t talked about how beautiful Sky’s voice is, if he doesn’t win a tony award i will riot

“The reason i’m living is you” SOBBING VIOLENTLY ON THE GROUND HEAVING AND HYPERVENTILATING

Johnny saying “i’ll never leave you alone” and it’s true even after he dies because he knows ponyboy will see him in the sunset that they always talked about and i’m going to go curl up in a corner for a little bit

“Throwing in the Towel”

Emotional damage part 2

Parentified older siblings how are we feeling about this song

Darry finally talking to his brother about how he’s feeling, and getting validation from Sodapop that what he’s been doing is being noticed and making a difference!!

But darry recognizing what Ponyboy can do and his potential and blaming himself for what happened and, like ponyboy, telling soda that he’d be better off without him

“I lost our brother and i lost my way” SOBBING VIOLENTLY ON THE GROUND PART 2

Darry is TWENTY in the books and never got a chance to truly mourn his parents it makes sense how much he struggles

Ponyboy joining in the song from the back of the set like it actually makes me want to bite something

Brent Comer how does it feel to understand darry like no one else <3333333

“Brother that’s what love is all about” JASON SCHHMIDT THE FACT THAT YOU WEREN’T NOMINATED FOR A TONY IS A CRIME

(they should have just nominated the entire cast for supporting or featured actor at this point tbh)

“Soda’s Letter”

Jason making me sob!!!!! 

“Ponyboy this house ain’t a home without you” this song just starts out punching you in the gut

Idk why but soda including “say hi to johnny for us” makes me emotional, like the curtis brothers love johnny as much as they love pony he is also their little brother!!!

Brent comer i will fight you for the end of this song

“Hoods turned Heroes”

DARYL AND JASON KILL THIS SONG ACTUALLY THEY’RE THE UNDERRATED DUO OF THIS SHOW

New hc because of this song is that Soda and Two-Bit are as close to each other as Pony and Johnny are

i love love love the "owe it all to Pony and Johnny" line, because they recognize what the two have been through, and also acknowledge that yeah, it's because of them that they're getting a little bit better of a reputation!

Also again, not part of the album, but the song is so hyped and excited and happy and then immediately gets cut by Dally walking onto the stage with Johnny wrapped in bandages and my heart BROKE

“Hopeless War”

Favorite change is cherry going to visit johnny in the hospital and that being where she and pony have their conversation

What i love about this song is that it isn’t cherry going “this is silly, you shouldn’t do this” it’s cherry realizing that what happened to johnny was never deserved, why the rumble is important, and knowing that it’s going to happen, but her also acknowledging, like ponyboy does, that it’s not going to change anything. 

I’m just so obsessed with emma’s voice and how she portrays cherry in the show

“Trouble”

I absolutely LOVE how aggressive and intense this song is, especially compared to “Hopeless War” coming right before it

I love “tonight” from West Side, and this song gives me those vibes, i love a good pre-rumble song

DARRY STILL LOOKING OUT FOR PONYBOY AND WANTING TO FIGHT FOR HIM 

PONYBOY TAKING THE “LET’S DO IT FOR JOHNNY” LINE

“Little Brother” 

Emotional damage part 3

The way the song starts out so soft and slow, and it building up and up as Dally becomes more and more worked up and looses it

“If anything were fair you would still be here” AND THAT’S THE POINT OF THE SHOW AND OF THE BOOK IT ISN’T FAIR THAT JOHNNY DIES IT’S FAIR THAT BOB DIES BUT JOHNNY DIDN’T DESERVE TO DIE AND IT’S THE REALIZATION THAT EVEN THOUGH JOHNNY COULD DO SO MUCH MORE HE STILL DIES AND LEAVES THE PEOPLE WHO LOVE HIM BEHIND

“Do it for Ponyboy, do it for Johnny Cade” THOSE ARE HIS BROTHERS YOUR HONOR

The way Joshua just screams the last “Johnny can you hear me now?” absolutely destroys me, the song itself is all over the place, and it makes sense because it’s Dally’s breakdown

“Stay Gold”

Emotional damage part 4

When i saw the show the instruments were really quiet while Sky was singing so all you could hear was him and then the sounds of people quietly sobbing and sniffling (it was me)

Going from “i have seen a pool of blood run crimson red” to “i have stared into a thankful father’s eyes” johnny going from taking a life to saving lives i’m losing my mind actually

Not to be annoying about them again but Brody and Sky’s voices literally melt together and their emotions are so beautifully portrayed as they sing, going from melancholy to joyful as Ponyboy starts to accept Johnny’s death

And “I have known a love that many never know, and our love lives on no matter where I go” IT’S ABOUT THE PLATONIC LOVE OF THIS GROUP AND THE LOVE PONY AND JOHNNY HAVE FOR EACH OTHER AND HOW FRIENDSHIPS ARE STRONGER THAN ANYTHING ELSE AND I’M JUST GOING TO CRAWL IN A HOLE AND DIE THEY’RE PLATONIC SOULMATES

Ponyboy having the last “Stay Gold” line 

“Finale (Tulsa ‘67)”

Darry reading the starting lines like Ponyboy did at the beginning of the show 

Ponyboy going from idolizing fictional heroes to looking at his brothers as his heroes because they’re the reason he’s going to be able to make it out of Tulsa????

Just the way he sings about how Darry is the toughest guy he knows, and how Soda is the heart and soul of the family, how earnest and loving he is when singing it

“Trying to look tough so they're not beaten down again” in connection to Dally makes me sob, him using the grease and toughness as a cover so he doesn’t get hurt again

And this reprise of the song just feeling so much lighter and happier, compared to the opening, when ponyboy was talking about how everything was unbalanced and the differences between the Greasers and the Socs, how he and his brothers were struggling, to the finale being so hopeful and encouraging, because Ponyboy’s had his realizations, he’s reconnected with his brothers, he’s accepted Johnny and Dally’s deaths, but he’s making a choice to keep going

And also at the end, where “We’re greasers” was repeated in the opening song, it’s now been changed to “Stay Gold” being repeated 

And the entire show ENDING with “Stay gold”???????

yeah i'm so so normal about this show i promise

[fromtenthousandfeet]

1. Jungkook’s fans

2. His own logo under the song name

3. And link that leads to “sign up for updates from Jung kook and bts”

So Jk as soloist is established

Before I just wondered whether they would disband or not. Sorry, now I want it. Interesting, how 6 others are doing right now…

Let's dig in!

Hopeless. Best to ignore them. Also, if Jungkook's music really resonates with them, great! Buy it, listen to it, whatever. I hope eventually ARMYs will stop supporting everything the members release out of obligation and actually consume what they think is good/to their individual taste. Otherwise, be ready for more Permission to Dance and Yet to Come-type songs.

Yeah. Look, HYBE didn't invest $100 million plus into JK's solo career for nothing. Expect to see way more of this as time passes, especially once they're out of the military. I know the trademarked label gets under people's skin, but remember that the trademark is owned by HYBE, not Jungkook! The company makes money off his merchandise first and foremost. Meanwhile, Jimin's dad/family keep all the revenue generated from ZM-ILLENIAL products. Let's hope they get international shipping up and running ASAP because buying directly from them is a much better alternative to support Jimin rather than filling HYBE's coffers with streams, music purchases, and Jimin-related merchandise.

As some smart person wrote on Twitter today, the fandom is slowly being conditioned to replace BTS with Jungkook.

Jungkook's solo career started several years ago. When he stayed behind in New York to record Left & Right with Charlie Puth it was obvious which way the company was moving. And man did he look happy. I've been watching JK's facial expressions throughout Chapter 2 hoping to see some signs that he might feel bad about the extra push, the fraudulence, the unfair treatment to the others, but I don't see it. I think he feels no guilt whatsoever. I'm not necessarily surprised because he strikes me as a pretty immature guy - especially once he started doing those lives from his apartment. He's a kid. What does surprise me is the complete lack of response from the others. Do they really not care? Are they ready to move on to their own projects? Maybe it's a relief to let JK be responsible for bringing in the cash for the company while they go off and do their own thing?

I was way too invested in this JM/JK solo situation as it first rolled out. The SEVEN posters across the globe, even the name of the song itself, made me so mad. Then I saw the leaked footage of Jimin and Jungkook on that boat in Connecticut and Jimin's big grin, and I realized being a member of BTS is just a job. The members are colleagues, they work for BigHit, which is a subsidiary of HYBE, whose chairman is Bang Si-Hyuk. It’s not that serious. Let it go.

Speaking of letting go. I sincerely hope that some day Jimin is represented by a different label. I hope his future trajectory is that of an indie artist and not a mega star. I want him to stay true to his values and artistic vision. I don't care if he's not a household name. I desperately wish people would stop mass streaming his music and obsessing about chart placement, but I understand why they do and I'm not judging. But he himself continues to insinuate he's not making his solo music for the charts or the money or the fame. He seems far more focused on putting out a good product. God, that must drive BSH CRAZY given how obsessed he is with all of those things.

My final thought is this. The day Jimin's fans stop comparing his stream counts, album sales, awards, and paid media play to Jungkook’s is the day Jimin is finally free! I hope fans can find a way to love him for his talents rather than his metrics. JK and JJKs can keep that shit for themselves.

[theseventrumpets]

A loud, trumpeting sound goes across the entire Plain. All cats are overwhelmed for a moment by an ethereal sense, something that they can't control and can't find the source of. The sky pulses white for a moment, but no one can tell if it was a hallucination or not.

♪ ♫ The Seven Trumpets Sound,   ♫ ♪

The cats of the Plain have experienced a lot of loss recently. With the Red suffering an attack from one of their own, the Pale discovering a monster in its depths, an illness finding its way into Black, and the White having its final battle with the raccoons, things don't seem to be going too well for them.

Trouble stirs, as Calandivaspade heightens tensions with the Red Face, Volcanicdiamond, bringing the two decks ever closer to war, while Turnclub suffers from losses after a war with raccoons, and his only ally, Aegisheart, is dealing with a mysterious disease with no cure. How will the canaries escape the coal mine when there's no exit in sight?

►► The First Trumpet Sings. ◄◄

This RP has been running for 10 months now, and after 3, I finally make the announcement that we are OFFICIALLY IN THE 1ST ARC!!!! THIS IS SO EXCITING!!! I have never run anything on this big of a scale before, and I hope so desperately to create a memorable experience for everyone involved. All of my members and moderators mean SO SO MUCH TO ME. It is truly amazing to me to see your creativity shine, and all the wonderful characters you've made so far. I'd love to see even more as time goes on!!

Now, of course, there's still room for those uninitiated. The current plot needs to be updated on the website, but if you hop in the server, you can get some pretty decent rundowns from fellow members if you're interested! You must be 18+ to join, there's no applications, and there's little to no restriction on the kinds of cat characters you can make in here.

If you’re interested, read below the cut to see more in-depth details about the server and story, or check out the links right below to get started on reading the lore, about the Decks, and so on. To join the RP, just go ahead and click the link to the Discord server! After you’re in, wait some time for our mods to check you over, and give you permission to join. I would love to see a batch of new members and potential helpers/mods in this first arc, so please please PLEASE take a looksie at my story, and I hope to see you there!!

♪♫♪► WEBSITE ► RULES ► SEND AN ASK ► DISCORD LINK ♪♫♪► SERVER ADOPTS ► ALLEGIANCES ► LORE ON TUMBLR

"We picture seven swinging branches, with seven swinging bodies--seven singing trumpets, with seven seals to come! We shall overcome!"

Here’s what you can expect from this RP:

► Oh god, there’s elemental magic built into the cats. ► It all takes place entirely in a world of my own, so there’s a shitton of worldbuilding! ► Paranormal and supernatural activities, including Gods and ghosts from the grave! ► Non-feline animals are allowed in limited quantities! ► There’s no Starclan, just Ad Infinitum and it’s subsections! ► A completely overhauled and hand-crafted Warriors ranking system! ► A mostly liquid time based RP, both in events, roleplay, and aging! ► Morally dubious and evil characters allowed in certain quantities! ► Neurodivergent/mentally ill/physically disabled characters are allowed with no restrictions or paywalls! ► Currency system to add rare traits to your cats, AND MORE! ► Occasionally fun games and events to earn you points for currency, as well as to bond with your fellow server-mates!

The Seven Trumpets is an 18+ horror Warrior Cats Roleplay based around the concept of a biblical apocalypse, inspired by the album 'Until The Horror Goes' by the band John Congleton & The Nighty Nite. It uses a lot of horror themes, though mostly focuses on psychological horror and the idea of unreality and fear, and how those can drive characters to survive, or cease surviving entirely.

This RP will focus on some darker topics, and gore will be featured from time to time. This RP may not be for the faint of heart, and I encourage you to make sure you can handle psychological horror before coming into this server! Although this RP is horror themed, it will not be purely angst and hardship. As the goal of the story is to stop an apocalypse, there will be themes of hope and light coming through the darkness, and characters finding the strength to keep pushing on even when everything is against them. Don't expect this server to be purely dark with no happiness, as that just wouldn't be fun for anyone to constantly deal with anxiety and pain and suffering all the time!

[deadcactuswalking]

REVIEWING THE CHARTS: 14/12/2024 (Sabrina Carpenter, Christmas Garbage)

Another Christmas episode, you know what it is. “Last Christmas” by Wham! returns to the spot – I wrote about it very recently – for an eighth non-consecutive week, and we have more Christmas songs in the top five – “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey at #3 and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee at #5. There are plenty Christmas songs all over the highest reaches of the charts – all but two of the top 10 – so let’s ditch the format and just zip through the UK Singles Chart. Welcome back to REVIEWING THE CHARTS!

content warning: sexy Santa

Rundown

Perhaps most notably, there are two new peaks within the top 10 for Christmas singles, those being “It Can’t be Christmas” by Tom Grennan at #6 and, impressively, after a decade and change, “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson at #10, whilst Laufey takes “Christmas Magic” to #20 and “Carol of the Bells” by John Williams is for whatever reason up to #49, then Mark Ambor’s cover of “Run Rudolph Run” from last week paces to #60. Outside of festivities, we have the other entries in our top five, “That’s So True” by Gracie Abrams at #2 and “APT.” by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars at #4, then we do see some gains for “Messy” by Lola Young at #11, “Snowman” by Sia at #18 (a festive-themed song, but far from festive), “The Days” by Chrystal at #24, “Die with a Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars at #37, “Good Luck, Babe!” by Chappell Roan at #47, “Dirty Cash (Money Talks)” by PAWSA and The Adventures of Stevie V at #57, “Too Sweet” by Hozier at #59 and “Stick Season” by Noah Kahan at #62. We then have a few holiday returns too, alongside “Burning Down” by Alex Warren back at #68, as we see the annual return of “DJ Play a Christmas Song” by Cher at #73, “Christmas Lights” by Coldplay at #71, and possibly thanks to a virtual duet with BTS member V, “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby at #66.

As for what’s left us to make room, we see the departures of “Disease” by Lady Gaga, “Thick of It” by KSI featuring Trippie Redd, “Sympathy is a knife” by Charli xcx with the remix featuring Ariana Grande, “WILDFLOWER” by Billie Eilish, “Stargazing” by Myles Smith and “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter, which exits to make room for a song that also kind of already charted; I suppose we’ll get into it. Much like we had a couplet of songs, one a Christmas-themed rendition of a prior release, one a newer song from a mid-level album drop, we have much of the same this week… just the female version, as it was two guys last week. Funny how that turns out. Either way, it’ll be yet another quick episode – thankfully since I’ve delayed this enough to get my keyboard fixed, life happens and gets in the way of silly chart reviews. But not anymore!

New Entries

#72 – “toxic till the end” – ROSÉ

Produced by Evan Blair

BLACKPINK star ROSÉ has been the first to release a full debut album, that being rosie, and whilst I’ve yet to hear the entire record, I do have some hopes for a bubblegum albeit enjoyable pop record, as she has the most significant solo catalogue of a BLACKPINK, and unique production choices and charisma have largely carried those solo singles for me. I wasn’t particularly excited, therefore, seeing Evan Blair, who has worked primarily with safer, modern “teenage” acts like Benson Boone and Nessa Barrett. With that said, though, he pulled through for this one, seemingly the single being pushed from her solo debut currently charting at #4 over on the albums chart. It’s not a remarkable sound, going for a very typical bubbly synth pastiche, but the vocal production does a lot to enhance limited vocal performances and the fizzle of hearing that gated drum against the synthbed is still as effective, perhaps more so, as it would have been for a 2019 Halsey track that similarly mixes those watery sounds with guitars and a whole lot of wavy filtering, especially on the Auto-Tuned vocals, though the sincere bridge on this bitter and justified piss-off, the spoken interlude between verses, it all ends up sounding more sincere. Sure, the song has the length and energy of a hyperpop snippet, but does away with the jaded irony that could easily put me off, especially with such a youthful singer like ROSÉ who will go for the melodrama. Consider me still largely interested in that new album, whenever I get to listen.

#25 – “A Nonsense Christmas” – Sabrina Carpenter

Produced by Julian Bunetta

Well, once again, we are stuck with a simple song being redone for this year’s festive season, except in this case, this is actually an older Christmasified rendition of the track, being initially released in 2022, then placed into her fruitcake EP, which debuts this week on the albums chart at #5. Said track is of course “Nonsense”, a hit in itself that I already reviewed when it first charted. The original is silly and smutty in a way that ended up defining her career from then on, though she’s ditched much of the Ariana Grande R&B-pop stylings since for a… “classier” and more vintage style that makes this version, changing the lyrics into Christmas innuendo and adding sleigh bells to the mix, feel a little dated on arrival. Regardless, it’s already out-peaked the original (#32 in 2023, whilst Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers” was #1), partly because of her Netflix holiday special I’ve yet to see but I’m sure has the same cheeky appeal as this track, just one that I don’t think will hold year after year.

Conclusion

Well, once again, we have two options but instead of two measly, mediocre offerings, they’re good tracks with little to write home about – consider it a dual Honourable Mention rather than crowning anything a best or worst. It’s the Christmas chart next week, but for now, thank you for reading, long live Cola Boyy and I’ll see you next week!

[roo-bastmoon]

BTS Tutorial: Billboard Charts

So how does charting work when it comes to Billboard?

Hey, fam. Let’s get into it.

First off, this information mostly pertains to folks living in the United States or Puerto Rico. If you live elsewhere, you’ll want to pay attention to the rules for your own country and concentrate on helping the boys chart on Hanteo and GaOn (Circle) charts so they can win awards in Korea.

Second, did you know there’s more than one Billboard chart to focus on?

The first chart is Billboard Hot 100. This is the music industry standard.

This chart is focused on singles. They track how well the singles do for 1 week (from when it drops on Friday night until the following Thursday.) The chart usually updates by the following Tuesday morning.

Streaming is the most dominant factor, but sales and radio play also are important.

Jimin is releasing singles for FACE and we want them to chart well, so if you can afford it, it’s important that you pre-order the digital singles for “Set Me Free Pt.2” & “Like Crazy” at the official BTS store.

(The single CD for “Like Crazy” is also available for pre-order if you can swing that!) You can buy those things here and they will count for the charts:

If you have Amazon Prime, it’ll let you connect to your account and you can pay for it that way—super convenient.

Now hear me out: If you can’t afford it, that’s okay. Don't stress out.

Please save up to buy the album on iTunes and Amazon, if you can do that, and either way, just be prepared to work your butt off streaming the singles online. (I will be posting a mini-tutorial on streaming soon).

But don't neglect the singles. Hot 100 very much matters.

The second chart is Billboard 200. Getting BTS members on this chart at least is a matter of honor.

This chart is focused on albums and EPs.

Roo, what is an EP? I’m glad you asked!

EP stands for Extended Play. It’s for mini albums, like FACE, that typically have 6 or fewer tracks and run less than 30 minutes. For EPs, it’s great to stream the songs in the order of the original tracklist, so all songs have an equal chance to chart.

LP stands for Long Play. That refers to a traditional album with 6 or more songs (sometimes more than 12!) that run longer than half an hour.

Of note, we saw photos posted on social media in 2022 of Jimin working with a bunch of artists and producers who do not seem to be featured on the mini-album FACE. It is therefore possible (I am not making promises) that he might have plans to release an LP later. Let’s keep an eye out.

Anyway, back to Billboard 200.

This one is a big one and we simply must help Jimin to place well here. In order to make the chart, Billboard tracks pure sales, and something called SAS (streams and sales) which combines TEA, SEA, and SES.

What is up with the alphabet soup, Roo? Again, so glad you asked.

TEA stands for Track Equivalent Albums. In this case, 10 tracks = 1 album.

SEA stands for Stream Equivalent Albums. If you cannot buy the album, you need to stream your guts out. As far as I can tell, the following formula still holds true:

--1,250 streams from a premium stream (such as a Spotify Premium account) = 1 album/unit sale. --3,750 streams from an ad supported stream (such as a free Spotify account) = 1 album/unit sale.

So if you sign up for a free trial for Spotify before FACE comes out, your streams will count 3 TIMES AS MUCH as a free account’s efforts.

And you need to stream 1,250 times for it to count as an album sale. Please be ready to have a device devoted solely to FACE streaming nonstop for a week.

SES stands for Stream Equivalent songs. Here’s the formula for that:

--125 streams from a premium stream (such as a Spotify Premium account) = 1 song unit. --375 streams from an ad supported stream (such as a free Spotify account) = 1 song unit.

Like Hot 100, Billboard 200 tracks from Friday night through to Thursday night and posts results the following Tuesday.

Finally, there’s something called Billboard Global 200.

This includes world-wide songs counted in 200 different territories. The chart tracks both streams and downloaded sales.

A note about digital sales: it’s not enough to just buy. Once you buy, you gotta DOWNLOAD IT onto your device or it won’t count.

Also please note that streams only count from official sources (subscriptions and ad-supported platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music). Playing your digital copy on WeVerse does not count for Billboard.

By the way, did you know YouTube has a Music platform for charting, beyond just watching the official music video on regular YouTube? Check out YouTube Music and get familiar with it!

Now this is important so please pay attention.

Do not use a VPN when you are trying to chart something. VPN hides your IP address, which makes you look like a bot or a non-US/PR user, and that disqualifies your efforts. TURN OFF YOUR VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK WHEN YOU STREAM.

I found all these very helpful explanations around Billboard Charts from this source (all credit to them):

Please note, however, that much of their info came from 2021 so I’m not exactly sure it’s all still accurate. As I learn more, I will update. If you know of better info, please comment or DM me so I can update this post!

Feel free to reblog or share this post with others so we can spread the word and share the techniques.

Be on the lookout for mini-tutorials coming soon on how to stream on different platforms. We have a whole month to practice until FACE drops and you really do need time to get used to switching between accounts and figuring out the best playlist techniques.

Stay strong, Jimin stans! By March 24th we will be in good shape and as prepared as possible to help our IT BOY. He's worked hard for us, now it's our turn.