#that was really weird and not exactly cool since I'm wearing a mask for a reason you know.)

[cryptidplays]

Happy Monday!

Super big oops on my part. I was out running errands when this went live!

So, here's today's video about a werewolf who dumps the moon and falls for the sun in: My Burning Passion! (It's very silly, and it was created by the ever awesome Catsket with a team of people who all did a really great job with this!)

[synergysilhouette]

"Batman: Caped Crusader" review

Binge-watched this show, and I wanted to be one of many people to share my thoughts on this--plus I was spurred on by getting a wish of mine granted from the show. Make sure to check out the show if you can!

The animation is beautiful--I know this is a weird comparison, but soemthing about the animation reminds me of 2010s Scooby Doo animated films, and I kind of adore that.

The voice acting was...fine--I can't tell if it was poor performances or poor direction; Hamish's Bruce Wayne sounds too raspy/rugged some of the time, like he's still playing Batman, and many of the other actors felt like they were just reading lines rather than performing lines, not enough emotion. IDK if they're more used to live-action work, but voice-acting is a different ballgame, since your voice is all you have to convey the character. A lot of performances fell flat for me, but it wasn't 100% unbearable, just underwhelming. I have some people I'd recommend instead (both familiar to the role and otherwise), but I don't wanna start anything.

LOVED Harley (but not her costume)--Jamie Chung had one of the better performances in the group, and I really LOVED the angle they did for Harley; I feel like the media often flanderizes her as the goofy crazy chick, so seeing her actually utilize her psychology skills (like I've been asking for!) is so satisfying. That said, the outfit has GOT TO GO. Gold and black is gorgeous, but it ples in comparison to her black and red look. And a weird nit-pick; when I first saw the stills, I was under the impression she was wearing a carnival-esque mask rather than face paint, and I find that idea a lot creepier. I wish we'd gotten more of Harley's antics--and even seeing her get close to Bruce in the way she did with Barbara and Renee--before revealing her as a big bad to the public. And I appreciate that she isn't 100% evil; she is doing what she believes is a noble cause, just doing it in an illegal and unethical way. I needed a backstory!

Not enough Batman--Maybe it's just me, but it definitely felt like there were some episodes where Bruce and Batman were supporting characters and more focus was on the GCPD. While I don't mind it too much, I enjoy superhero shows for the superheroes, not the heroes; this is why I had a love/hate relationship with "Gotham."

Batman (and Bruce) isn't quite likeable enough--In earlier incarnations, Batman was more kind and caring before becoming more emotionally closed off with time, but here he's that way from the get-go. Not to mention that Bruce Wayne puts on a facade around everyone, even people he trusts (he probably did that anyway; I can't remember), and his session with Harleen really frustrated me because I don't expect his walls to come down immediately, I don't expect them to be this high this early. I wanted him to be a bit warmer and transparent, rather than curt and cold like he's usually seen in the show. I feel like this is an issue often seen in comics, too; people prioritize Batman's "coolness" and thus push his feelings to the wayside.

Using underrated and familiar villains--I'm sure the real experts are gonna chew me out for this one, but as someone who got into comics in the 2010s and didn't catch up on the acclaimed 90s series, it was fun to see villains I loved and villains I didn't know; one of the best things a popular property can do is use underrated characters, since it helps the show feel original and fresh (thus why "Teen Titans" is so enjoyable; the whole franchise is underrated).

Too modern for the 1940s--I can't put my fingers on it exactly, but the vibes feel too modern; I assume the 1940s was for aesthetics, but since everything else feels updated (from the way people talk to Harley and Renee seemingly being open about their feelings for each other), I don't think it was a wise choice to have it both ways. I see no reason not to have it in modern-day, but I suppose you'd have to get more creative with technology.

Barbara and the Robins--First off, I should've gambled with someone that Jason would be a redhead; I'd have made SO MUCH money. Secondly, I'm not crazy about how all four kids are orphans; If I recall correctly, both Carrie and Stephanie's parents were alive when they joined the Batfamily. In any case, I'm confused on why Barbara is significantly older than them when they're all supposed to be within the same age bracket (I think; someone has told me otherwise since posting this, so I could be wrong). Not to mention, a part of me worries that because of the quartet's young ages and Barbara getting so much screentime as a lawyer, we won't get any of them as Robins or Batgirls unless something drastic happens, and/or we get a time jump.

Overall, I think my biggest gripes are the voice acting and how Batman/Bruce Wayne is written. That said, I enjoyed the show overall. IDK why HBO Max dropped it. Hopefully season 2 will introduce Poison Ivy, Catman, Tim Drake, Ghostmaker, and Gardener, since the finale already showed us a certain someone who IS coming to Gotham.

[funishment-time]

🔵 Kodaka BlueSky Q&As: Rain Code Characters (All)

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: Please be advised! Translations of all Japanese answers derive from a combination of Google Translate and my manager's three-quarters-remembered Japanese. We've tried our best to work out what he's saying, but there will be mistakes here and there. Do not take this as gospel!

To avoid spreading too much misinfo, where we're completely boggled about an answer, we've decided not to even make an attempt. We'll still list the post, but mark it accordingly.

➡️ AN IMPORTANT NOTE FROM KODAKA BEFORE READING:

First of all, the questions answered here are not official. Everything that is official is what is said within the work. In contrast, this is simply what Kodaka, the creator, thinks, and it is not the correct answer. Use this as a starting point to enjoy the depth of each character, or to say, "That's not right!" and enjoy it with your own interpretation. I think of this as a way of communicating with the characters who live in fiction. This is important, so please spread the word.

💕 FEBRUARY 2024:

Q: I love shinigami chan. Please make games forever!

A: YES

/////

Q: What happened to everyone at Amaterasu Company after the main story?

A: Yomi [Hellsmile] is growing magmatically angry with the opportunity to revolt while imprisoned…!

/////

Q: Why does Vivia wear such stringy underwear? Does he untie it every time he takes a bath or something?

A: I feel like he just goes in like that.

/////

Q: Was Vivia's umbrella tattoo done in Kanai? I was curious because that was the only tattoo related to rain.

A: I think he likes the gloomy rain. I'm sure he doesn't think Kanai Ward is so bad.

/////

Q: The pattern on Director Yakou's uniform is really cool, is there a reason for that?

A: I leave that up to Komatsuzaki-kun, but being a detective is, after all, a job in the underworld, so I think it's better to have that sort of shady side to it.

NOTE: Komatsuzaki is the guy behind Danganronpa and Rain Code's art.

/////

Q: [the question has since been deleted, but I remember it was about the ages of Master Detectives in Rain Code]

A: It varies quite a bit, but let me just say that most are in their 20s to late 30s. By the way, I'm 45. Oh, you didn't hear that.

/////

Q: How much does the director smoke in a day? That ashtray is disgusting.

A: That's probably three packs a day. I smoke half a pack a day. Oh, you didn't hear that.

NOTE: This is about Chief Yakou.

/////

Q: I would like to hear about your impressions of the masked man, and what you were conscious of when writing. I will continue to support your work☔️

A: He's nonchalant, talks about himself without listening to what the other person has to say, but seems intelligent. That's the impression I get.

NOTE: This is about Rain Code's Makoto.

/////

Q: Kodaka-san!! Thank you for your wonderful works as always ₍ᐢ..ᐢ₎⊹ Amaterasu is exactly my type of organization (especially the head of security...!) Even if it's not a sub-story, I'd like to know if you have any small details that haven't been made public 🙏🏻💞

A: Thank you! Of all the Amaterasu characters, Komatsuzaki-kun was most enthusiastic about the robot researcher.

NOTE: We're pretty sure this is about either the character known as "Akira." The one weird about the Ama-pals.

/////

Q: A question about Rain Code: Are there plans to release a book that delves deeper into the backstories of the people who appeared in Chapter 0?

A: If there's a demand, I'd like to see a spin-off novel or something...

/////

Q: Excuse me for asking a question about Yuma, the main character of Raincode! What type of woman does Yuma like?

A: I wonder...! I think he's a pushover. lol

/////

Q: The names of the characters in Rain Code are sprinkled with elements of Japanese mythology, but is there any inspiration or backstory for this? Is there a reason why you named Makoto after the god of fire?

A: It all started with me wanting to incorporate a Japanese flavour.

/////

Q: Rain Code was really fun! I wonder if there will be an "if" story where the five train detectives (all real) arrive in Kanai Ward!? I'm ready to buy all the DLC and whatever else it takes👍

A: I would love to depict stories of their success. It would add more depth to Chapter 0.

/////

Q: Are there any characters who are certain that Halara's gender is this or that?

A: I don't think anyone can ask. Even if they did, Halara would probably think there's no point in answering. They might tell someone they like...

/////

Q: Mr. Kodaka, what is your impression of Director Yakou of Rain Code?

A: He's caring but also lazy, sloppy but cool... I think he's a very human detective.

/////

Q: Is Vivia's name a reference to the movie "Ghosts of the Sierra de Cobre"? Are there any other works that the names of the other characters are also based on?

A: I'm ashamed to say that I hadn't heard of that movie. The characters in Rain Code were named with an emphasis on giving them a stateless feel, and on the sound of the name.

/////

Q: Was there a deciding factor in casting Uchida Yuuma for the role of Seth?

A: I basically leave the casting up to the sound company. They did a very good job.

/////

Q: I'm sure Desuhiko has picked up as many women as there are stars in the sky, but does he actually have much experience in love?

A: Although he is not unpopular, he is most likely rejected quickly.

🍀 MARCH 2024:

Q: I'd like to know the ages of the Resistance members (even a rough estimate is fine if you haven't thought about it)! Since Iruka is planning to receive a birthday present from her parents, is she the youngest member?

A: Judging from his voice, Shachi sounds like he's 52 years old.

/////

Q: Excuse me. Who is most given chocolates on valentine day in raincode ?

A: Maybe, Vivia.

/////

Q: Why did Shinigami-chan give Halara-san the nickname "Hellara"?

A: I wanted Halara to be so stoic it drew Shinigami's attention.

/////

Q: There may not be sushi in Kanai Ward, but I'd like to know what your favorite sushi toppings are, folks at the detective agency.

A: Desuhiko likes sea urchins, Yakou likes mackerel, Vivia doesn't feel like eating, Halara likes maki rolls, and Fubuki tries to save the fish with time reversal.

/////

Q: [The question has since been deleted, but I believe it was about Seth's childhood.]

A: His childhood must have been similar to that of Jataro [Kemuri]...

/////

Q: I would like to hear about Martina's "calculation" of Yomi, which came up in a previous Rain Code interview. Did you have any stories in mind, Mr. Kodaka?

A: She thought she could use Yomi's favor to advance her own career.

/////

Q: I'd like to know the name of the Amaterasu Researcher who appears in Director Yakou's DLC!

A: His wife? It's a secret! I only tell people when I'm drunk, so... nope. (said cutely)

/////

Q: I'm guessing the age order of the train detectives is Zange > Melami > Zilch > Aphex > Pucci, is that correct?

A: There are various theories about the location of Melami [in that order].

🥬 APRIL 2024:

Q: Do special abilities have a genetic component? (e.g., Vivia's family is more likely to see spirits)

A: Sometimes it is and sometimes it is not. It is said that the Clockford family will rarely produce a child like this due to genetics.

/////

Q: Sorry if this has already been mentioned❗️ Harara Nightmare's gender is unknown, but do they ever wear feminine clothes like skirts as fashion?

A: "No. I only wear clothes that are easy to move in."

/////

Q: Halara is often depicted holding a lollipop, but do they have a favorite flavor?

A: Anything as long as it's sweet. It's to get the sugar needed for that person's brain.

/////

Q: I played Raincode to the end ☔️ I love the masked man...! I'd be happy if you could tell me anything about him.

A: "I made the masks myself. I made them suspicious on purpose to scare people away."

NOTE: This is about Rain Code's Makoto again.

/////

Q: A question! I'm curious about what method the Raincode super detectives used to get into Kanai Ward! What other routes could they have taken besides the Amaterasu Express!? I'd be happy if you could tell me who got there and how!

A: I'm saving [this info] so I can make a special edition someday! lol

/////

Q: who would you choose to solve a mystery and why? kirigiri, saihara or halara?

A: It would be great if the three of them performed together!

🌺 MAY 2024:

Q: What do you think about animals other than dogs and cats, Halara?

A: "More precious than humans."

/////

Q: Can Chief Yakou cook?

A: "I can make lazy meals."

☀️ JUNE 2024:

n/a

🎇 JULY 2024:

n/a

🌭 AUG 2024:

Q: I want to know how Yomi Hellsmile is doing after the main story of Raincode. Also, how is Seth Burroughs doing?

A: In his luxurious cell, his desire for revenge boils.

🍁 SEPT 2024:

Q: Is there any reason why the masked man in Rain Code has one eye?

A: Apparently he chose the most suspicious mask possible, so that no one would like him.

NOTE: This is about Rain Code's Makoto once more.

[the-ventriloquizt]

Hello I saw Black Mask discussion and I just had to chime in! I need to read more comics on him defiantly to have a full opinion but I think something interesting is how he could parallel Batman (I know like, every villain does, but still lol). Both of them having dealt with trauma and forming these new, dark identities to deal with it, heavily focusing on a mask they wear, seeing they’re civilian identity as the fake persona.

I will also say 2 things I love and found very interesting were Roman’s backstory in this one comic (forgive me I’ve forgotten the name) where he took inspiration from Bruce Wayne’s parents death and decided to kill his own, tying their fates together forever. I think there’s something very messed up about that, the way he co-opted Bruce’s trauma and how like many other iconic villain hero pairs he’s forced them to have this shared connection, even if that wasn’t his intention in the comic. I think he could make a great main nemesis for Batman.

As well Mr. Rouges on YouTube has a great series called the Patient Files, HIGHLY reccomend! Great characterization of him and his bond to Batman. Anyway sorry if I rambled here too much, I just liked that there was good Black Mask discussion going on.

Thank you! I haven't read through all of his comics either, I've just read most of his earliest ones and his more recent ones. I've still gotta go through a bunch more, which I'm not exactly looking forward to… Though the comic you brought up is making me wanna get back to it. I think that sounds really interesting, I wish there was an easier way to find specific comics because I'd love to read that.

I think it's a really interesting connection between the two there, especially since it's something Roman chose on purpose. I've been listening to the Batman Audio Adventures podcast recently, and the mythologizing of the Wayne family's tragedy coming through as repetitive, ghoulish 'true crime' programs really got to me. Roman, with his weird attachment to symbology and how it makes identity, co-opting that kind of tragedy would be a cool twist on it.

I think it's kinda weird how little his criminal pursuits relate to Bruce Wayne for a lot of his appearances, given that his origin story is so tied to him. It's like he completely forgot that Bruce Wayne embarrassed him and that he'd wanted him dead.

I think that his Patient File there is really neat! I think I'll watch a few more, I love how I looked it up and it immediately showed me that there's a Ventriloquist video. Gotta say, it seems really bad when a lot of the people in the comments are like 'wow thank goodness he's not just a torture guy'. My favorite parts are him talking about Gotham being a bad city, and that Batman is misguided in trying to make it good, and then the fun nudge at Jeremiah about his 'mask' looking a lot like Roman's. Wait, and the thing about Harvey being the most honest of them all, given he's got two equally true visible faces. I think that's really interesting and it makes me wish they'd interact (though maybe they did I'm not sure...) Thank you so much for sharing this stuff with me, I really like talking about characters with everyone!

[befuddledcinnamonroll]

Alright, BL multiverse, let's goooo!

(I am so happy we are in an era of getting more creative plots in BL)

Anyone else get a momentary flashback to H2O: Just Add Water? Just me?

Ngl, I laughed at Kram dropping the locket, because I am an absolute klutz and would totally do the same thing.

Poor Kram, no one expects a strange naked man first thing in the morning.

Omg, I thought they were going to say Phupha was a life model for the dad, since he's a painter. How much tea did he spill to have to get completely naked??

Also, what exactly does the dad do that would make them such a target?

I'm assuming Bad Max is the leader of this gang.

Speaking of the devil... this went from cute to scary real damn quick. Poor Kram.

Max does intimidating very well.

They picked some gorgeous locations for this.

Lol, we are speedrunning this enemies to lovers arc. But also it's a nice example of what an empathetic character Kram is.

Oof. There is something darkly ironic about Phupha wanting his body to be captured in good shape when we know he's going to die soon.

Gotta give Phupha credit for using any strategy at his disposal, from "draw me like one of your French girls" to "Oops, now I'm naked in a mosquito-ridden forest and need your help".

I wasn't sure how Kram & Phupha would feel as a pair, as they'd be competing with five years of real life MaxNat chemistry, but honestly both Gun & Nat are doing great! I'm on board.

Oh damn, I am such a sucker for lines like this.

Ooh, Phupha was wearing the blue before, and now it's Kram! I love that I notice these things now.

Ok, I liked the not-sex scene. There was a very realistic awkwardness to their inexperience, and even though Phupha is super ready, he sees that Kram isn't, and that's ok.

Oh shit, I forgot about her! Don't do something bad, sweetie.

Ok - maybe she's cool? But I'm still worried. There's something about her face as she's saying it's all ok.

It's funny, this has had such a timeless feel up to now, the cars feel really jarring.

THERE IS SO MUCH HAPPENING!! Phupha is a real estate mogul? He owns an art gallery? Tai is a baddie who likes to make dramatic entrances?

Goddamn, Max is bringing the sexy-scary.

Speaking of which, why the fuck haven't you hired guards already?

IF HE COMES BACK!?!?! HE JUST HELD A KNIFE TO YOUR SON!!! This dude has terrible survival instincts.

Um, wtf?

HE KNOWS IT'S WRONG?!?! He leads a gang, ffs!!!

Oh god, is this some weird rich people family shit? Are Phupha and Tai stepbrothers or something? Is that why these people aren't treating Tai like the scary motherfucker he clearly is?

Damn, there is a lot Phupha didn't tell Kram. I think the right time to tell someone you have a fiancee is before you try to fuck them and ask them to move away with you.

Wait, now we have a masked sword-wielding assassin? What is happening?!?!

Damn, that was the clunkiest exposition ever, lol. But now we know Phupha is a hemophiliac too.

Ooh, this was genuinely creepy.

Huh, they got out of that more easily than I expected.

But dad is not dad? And he's one trying to get to Phupha? But he knew where he was in the forest.

I'm so confused.

I'm enjoying the vibes and the acting, but the story got deeply confusing in the last bit. Hopefully we get some things cleared up in episode 2!

[kiranogareru]

STAR GAZING

WARNING: Language, but this is all fluffyyyy

A/N: I present to you, my first requested work. Dedicated to @mysticmaee I apologize for taking so long, I hope this meets your expectations. Enjoy and again I'm so so sorry it took me so long

Y/n and Bakugou -as much as he refuses to admit it- have been pretty good friends for a while and they recently started dating

Katsuki is well aware of the fact that he isn't all that good at this whole relationship thing!

He knows how a relationship is supposed to be like, he's read all those things about them in novels before and even though they appeared unrealistically perfect to him, Bakugou couldn't help but compare himself and feel inferior to those fictional men and their romancing abilities!

He has observed how well Y/N seems to be fitting the role of a girlfriend and has taken mental notes of the way she always shows him how she feels, whether that's through words or affectionate little gestures, such as simply holding his hand!

Bakugou has never really been the type for physical contact, one could even say he is quite touch starved in all honesty, which makes him a little bit timid to show her his appreciation that way, since it makes him feel uncomfortable and it gives him this weird fluttery feeling inside

The blonde thinks back to the short time they have shared as a couple and how sweet Y/n has been to him, even before, when they were just friends and he insisted on pushing her away!

Bakugou is suddenly left dumbstruck, when he comes to realize that he never even asked her out properly! She just kind of blurted out her feelings and he simply claimed her as his..and by his, he means his one weakness, but of course it goes without saying that he would never reveal that!

He then decides that he wants to try harder. He knows he can do better 'I can be the best boyfriend she's ever had, I'll be her number one!' he tells himself

'She put so much effort into approaching me and I know I made it even more difficult -I can't help it, that's just how I am- but the least I can do is put in just as much effort, it's only fair!'

He doesn't want to be a shitty boyfriend, because for 1 he knows that's not what she deserves and 2 he's the best, he's not one of those stupid extras, who would let her slip right through their fingers!

'It's time I finally lowered my defenses' he thinks, although he's still hesitant of showing his softer side and unsure of what that can possibly lead to

Katsuki walks in silence as he rakes his brain for a way to make it up to Y/n for the way he's been so far.

It's not like he's treating her bad or anything, as a matter of fact he is at his calmest when he's around her and all he does is admire the way her beautiful e/c eyes sparkle when she's focused on something she enjoys, or how her face lights up when she's happy, or he revels in the taste of her lips against his own whenever they share an unexpected kiss!

This warm feeling spreads throughout his chest and blood rushes to his cheeks, tinting them with a shade of pink, at the thought of the memories!

That's when it hits him and the perfect idea pops up in his head. If he's learnt anything from romance novels, it's the fact that every relationship starts with a date!

And that's something they haven't done yet, which gives Katsuki the opportunity to change that!

"Katsu?" Y/n stops in her tracks, making him break out of his trance and do the same

"You zoned out, is everything ok?" She asks with a soft smile, placing a hand on his cheek

"Tch, everything's fine dumbass, I'm just thinking" Bakugou returns the smile, resting his hand at the back of her neck, gently pulling her head closer and leaning in to leave a chaste kiss on her forhead

Y/n is left speechless and her cheeks burn up at the sudden action, Bakugou doesn't usually behave this way, especially not in public!

'I don't know what he's been thinking about, but I'm pretty sure it has something to do with this adorable change' She ponders

Y/n is quick to wrap her arms around him and bury her face in his chest, inhaling the scent of burnt caramel and cologne -something that she's grown so accustomed to, that it now brings her comfort

Bakugou's eyes widen in surprise and he lets out a breath as he relaxes, bringing one hand to her head as his other one makes it's way to her back to hold her close

They stand there in each other's embrace for a bit, before they decide to continue their walk to the dorms, hand in hand

•••

Once they reach the dorms, they catch the attention of a few of their classmates and friends. It's only logical though, since a smiling Bakugou Katsuki is not a sight one could easily miss!

The rest of the day goes by pretty quick as usual, since everyone is studying either alone or in groups, but once that's out of the way most of the students normally spend their free time by engaging in their hobbies of choice

While Y/n is hanging out with Jirou in the purple haired girl's room, singing and having a good time, Bakugou takes that chance to go to the kitchen and set his plan in motion

He has all the time he needs to prepare a few things for later

While the ruby eyed boy is in the middle of cooking, Sero walks into the kitchen, Kaminari following close behind him

"Kacchan?!" Kaminari exclaims in surprise

"Hm?" Katsuki turns around and realizes he has an audience

"How come you're cooking today?" Sero questions in confusion

It's not uncommon for the explosive boy to cook for his classmates, but he had done so just a few days ago already, that's what didn't sit right with Sero

"All of you extras cook like shit, tonight we're having some actual food!" Bakugou's voice remains low in volume, but his usual aggression is evident in his tone

"It smells amazing, what is it?" Sero technically drooling as he walks over to check

"I bet it's something spicy!" Kaminari declares, knowing his friend's taste

"Damn right Dunce Face! Let's hope you idiots can handle it this time! Tch" Bakugou tries to mask the smile forming on his face with his signature, cocky, smirk

"Kaminari.." Sero gives the electric blonde a look

"I know right!" Kaminari laughs, returning the look

"What are you idiots on about?" Bakugou raises an eyebrow

•••

As soon as the table is set and dinner is served, the students pick up on something unusual

"Hm? Where did Bakubro go?" Kirishima points out, while looking around the room

Kaminari and Sero stand back to back with a hand on their chin and wearing a knowing expression of confidence on their faces! The sparkles surrounding them are technically visible at this point

"What do you know? Spill the tea!" Mina interrogates with a pointed look

"Has anyone seen Y/n? I thought I saw her come downstairs earlier.." Jirou asks, seemingly popping up out of nowhere

"They are probably fu-" Sero wraps Mineta up using his tape with an unbothered face

"Shut up you nasty grape!" He scolds "They are on a date! We are sure of it!" He continues pridefully

"Who knew Bakugou could be so good with the ladies, right!" Kaminari comments, almost in disbelief

Meanwhile Y/n is comfortably sitting on a blanket behind the dorms with Bakugou. The night air feels cool on her skin, but not cold enough to give her goosebumps. It is rather refreshing if anything

They place their now empty dishes on the tray that's sitting in front of them and Bakugou pushes it aside

"That was delicious!" A look of content spreading on her features

"Hm, of course it was!" He cocky voice sounds. A winning smile playing on his lips

"Katsuki, this is so sweet..thank you" Y/n softly speaks, tilting Bakugou's head slightly with a hand on his cheek and leaving a feather-like kiss on the other

"You don't need to thank me dumbass..you deserve it!" His tone calm and loving

Bakugou lifts his hand and places it over her smaller one that is resting on his face

They lie down on the blanket, eyes staring at the wide night sky, littered with sparkling gems

"That one reminds me of you!" The excitement clear in her voice as she points at the sky

"How can a star remind you of me dumbass?" His laughs in amusement

"The way it shines looks like an explosion, it's powerful and beautiful!" Her explanation flusters the blonde momentarily, but he gathers himself and starts looking for the perfect star

"That one right there is you then!" He gestures towards it

"Is it now? How can a star remind you of me eh?" She teases

"It stands out, it's so bright and has such a stong presence!"

"Katsu..you idiot" She murmurs feeling bashful

"Huh who are you calling an idiot, idiot?"

Y/n intertwines her hand with his and Bakugou tenses up!

He still isn't used to the gentle gesture, since he has always perceived his hands as weapons, however as he eases into it he starts rubbing small circles on the back of her hand with his thumb

"This side of you is so soothing, so intoxicating~" She smiles before continuing

"I'm so lucky to be the one who gets to see you so peaceful..Dynamite" He is caught off guard by the mention of his hero name, which only she knows this far

The first reaction that comes to his mind is to kiss her and his body acts just as fast, pulling both her and himself to sit up and doing exactly that

His lips connect to hers in an uncharacteristically slow and passionate kiss! It is as if Bakugou is pouring everything that he can't put into words in this kiss!

He pulls away with his confidence restored

"Do you want to be mine?"

"I'm my own person idiot and we're already dating!" She laughs, knowing what he meant, but wanting to mess with him regardless

"I know that dumbass! You think I would date some sort of weakling?" He asks matter-of-factly

"I'm already yours and you're all mine!" She boasts

"Damn right!" Bakugou cups her face in one hand, tilting it upwards and leaning down slightly to capture her lips with his once more

[littleeyesofpallas]

So i did a little thing on Kensei and his biker motif and that included his hollow form looking like he was made out of car parts. and i figure I might as well tackle Mashiro's hollow form now, since it's adjacent.

To start with, it should be noted that Mashiro has a whole thing going on with her right out the gate. Unlike the other Visored who all seem to have adopted some kind of passably human attire, Mashiro is out here running around in a super hero suit... The outfit itself pulls from some pretty clear influences:

The little stripey things down the chest are a look taken from Himitsu Sentai Goranger, the 1971 live action super hero show. In the team of five, each ranger has a number and a matching number of stripes down either side of the suit's front fastening zipper. Where as the ascot+jumpsuit is verymuch the definitive Kamen Rider aesthetic. It's also possible that her weird giant goggles and even her green hair are also meant to evoke the general look of Kamen Rider's helmet.

(it's really weird that her goggles just sort of sit on her head? they don't even appear to be connected to one another, let alone to her head... The only reason I even really identify them as goggle is actually because of her TBtP design replacing them with regular sunglasses, which retroactively makes it clear that they're definitely meant to be eyewear. (even if she never wears them, like some sort of digimon protagonist))

And, as usual, I've mentioned before(because i'm a broken record) that these are contemporary sources, as both shows came about in the 1970s, and are foundational works in the tokusatsu genre, and consequently the building blocks of the Power Rangers franchise. But I want to elaborate on that because there's a lot of cool trivia in there...

Both shows were created by legendary mangaka Shotaro Ishinomori, who was also the creator of the 1960s manga, Cyborg 009. Cyborg 009 also featured a team of uniformed, scarf wearing cyborg supersoldiers. In fact, Cyborg 009 is basically the first Japanese superhero team.(and remains an enduring classic, even as continual remakes and reboots in the past decade have butchered it....)

The uniforms, the 5 man team, the helmets/masks, the heroic scarf/ascot, the team poses(and the solo poses), the evil organizations and monsters of the week, the "<insert name> KICK!" all stem from this one man's body of work. So she's not just a throwback to one particular set of characters or shows, or even one person's body of work; her look really is quintessentially THE image of a Japanese superhero.

Anyway the original Kamen Rider helmet is designed after a grasshopper and thus has the big compound bug eye lenses --even as the later series drifted away from the bug theme, the iconic eye shape has stayed-- which is why Mashiro has the big goggles, as well as why her mask has the giant eye holes --Also the heart shape of the mask is a throwback to the heart shape of the Pink Ranger in Goranger.

As a grasshopper, the original Kamen Rider's finishing move was the now famously imitable RIDER KICK! And in every subsequent iteration, some variation on the Rider Kick has remained the Kamen Rider signature move. And this in turn is why Mashiro's hollow has a whole legs and kick focused thing going on.

Incidentally though, there's a whole thing about her demeanor that doesn't just echo the superhero look from the 70s; With her energetic and childlike demeanor, it seems like the indication is that she dresses this way very earnestly. She isn't just dressed in a way that makes her look like a superhero to us as readers, she looks like someone who is trying to dress like a superhero, even to other people in-world. On the one hand she probably reads most readily as a cosplayer, but I feel like the implication here is that she actually thinks she is/wants to be a super hero.

Also, not to dip too far into headcanon, but given the way the Visored were first introduced as a rag tag looking bunch of misfits, it really seemed like the implication was they all got their powers separately and sought eachother out only after struggling with their own inner hollows; Essentially just mirroring Ichigo's experience... That they, while human, started turning into hollows. They fought off the hollow process resulting in giving them shinigami powers. but they struggled with a growing inner hollow, until someone showed up and offered to teach them to control the mask.

Also, there was that real ominous throw away exchange where Mashiro brings up that the first time she pulled out her own mask it lasted 15 consecutive hours. and Kensei didn't believe her, as if he wasn't around when it happened, or isn't even closely acquainted enough to just know it as a personal fact... Obviously that's contradicted much later when the TBtP has her as his former lieutenant, but it has a few vague implications...

Mashiro: ね—ね— ベリたんてさ何でこんなことしてんだっけ?

Hey~ hey~ Why's Berry-tan doing this?

Kensei: 虚化状態を長時間キ—プする為の訓練だよオメ—もやったろ

It's training to keep Hollow state for a long time. You did it too

Mashiro: あたしやってないモン

I did not

Kensei: ンだと? ウソっけ...

What? That's a lie...

Shinji: ホンマや白は最初から15時間以上虚化できたからなァ一人だけ虚化保持訓練してへんねん

it's true. because Mashiro was able to Hollowize for more than 15 hours she's the one person who didn't do Hollow state training

As always there's just a lot to be reckoned with when it comes to any number of swerves that happened in the middle of the Arrancar arc, but given the implications of how the hollow mask really works, we're lead to believe the mask's overall power and effectiveness is one of two things...

Either, like the zanpakutou spirits, they're a matter of making peace with the reflection of the inner self.

OR it's possible that the mask correlates to a total lack of balance, and just embracing the selfishness

this would btw more readily address the initial conflict between old man Zangetsu and the inner hollow, as they're of course still one and the same, but Ichigo needs to accept and embrace the negative side of his inner self in order to make peace with both of them.

Anyway point being Mashiro's apparent lack of a need for training would suggest she's super in tune with her hollow? Given her childish and hyperactive personality, it might just be that she's so immature that she doesn't have much of an inner conflict. She wants to dress like a superhero? So she does. She's confused? she whines and asks annoying questions about it. She's frustrated or unhappy? She rolls around on the floor and throws a goofy little tantrum. She doesn't have shame or hangups or a part of her she wants to repress, she's exactly who she is.

Which makes me think that if they had just been a ragtag group that goes around recruiting new Visored when they find them, like they did with Ichigo(instead of just one group that had always been together, which was just a boring explanation) then I can't help but imagine that when they found Mashiro, she must have been running around in her human life actually being a superhero.

Oh right, and Kamen Rider is so named because he rides a motorcycle. So Mashiro's partyl based on a motorcycle riding hero, and the TBtP made Muguruma a biker gang leader. Which explains why they thematically fit on the same squad. But is hollow Muguruma supposed to be hollow Mashiro's iconic hero bike?

[bookwyrminspiration]

Response to an ask from Ophelia:

(this is the one about wearing the same clothes all the time)

You don't need to apologize for sending asks! I've said it before and I'll say it again: you can send as many asks as you want as frequently as you want, and my own request in return is patience as I answer them.

as for the clothes thing, exactly!! that!! I wore the same thing so many times and my parents were always a little confused by it like...I had so many other options and yet here I was. Wearing the exact same thing as much as possible. I think I would've worn things even more if my parents hadn't accidentally conditioned me to think that as soon as I had worn something once that meant it was dirty and I needed to put it in the hamper. But even so...I was just wearing the same things as much as possible.

I don't think I ever got to the point where my parents were bargaining with me to not wear a specific thing anymore, but there was definitely some hard lines my parents had to put in place. My mom told me there was a shirt or something that I'd worn so much that it was riddled with holes, so she had to stop me from wearing it because it wasn't appropriate anymore.

And same with the fashion being "better" now, but also still safe for sensory needs and comfort. Like technically all the clothes are different, but they are very controlled. I don't know about you but I fall more heavily into the masking side of nd things, so a lot of what I did growing up was taking the things I did that people noticed--like wearing the same clothes every day--and adapting them so I could continue doing them without people noticing as much

which has now turned into having specific clothing items that I cycle through and pair specifically with each other so I'm always wearing a variation of like the same 2 or 3 outfits and it feels the same to me but to everyone else it looks different enough it doesn't draw notice. No one notices that I wear one pair of shorts with all my outfits when the shirts all have different prints on them, or if my tights have different designs. It's things like that! It's all calculated and strategic on my end, but normal to everyone else, if that makes sense.

And then there are the "rules" I follow with different clothing items, like which shirts I can wear with which bottoms without it feeling weird, whether I can wear a necklace or attach a chain to the short depending on the shirt, etc. It makes sense in my head but probably wouldn't if I were to assemble an outfit in front of someone.

it also feels so complicated to buy new clothes sometimes because I always just want a replacement for whatever it is that needs replacing--ie, shoes are completely worn through a need a new pair--but there is never going to be an exact replica so I'm stuck trying to find something similar. I have only ever found 1 pair of jeans that I actually liked and felt nice, and I have been chasing the feeling ever since. I've actually been wearing shorts a lot this winter because I only have one pair of pants that feel nice. For me it's less the texture of clothes (though it can have an impact) and a lot more the fit. And jeans are so!!! finicky!! But also I don't want them to go to waste so I'm going to try and alter them into something I'd be okay wearing.

And I'm perfectly fine with these kinds of asks! They're not annoying at all, and I agree that's its cool when we can find similar experiences in our lives. Honestly, I thought of you when I was talking about it in that original post because we've had so many shared nd experiences in the past and I wondered if this would be another. It turns out it was, which is really cool!!

It's not irritating in the slightest, I actually really like it. I do the same thing and share my own experiences when people talk about theirs, so you are 100% welcome and invited to do the same!!

[princess-of-the-corner]

⚠️WARNING⚠️: this is going to be a long ass ask mainly becuz I want to add a full song

The suite life of Zoe and Chloe au: (I'm not even sure is this is a au) (I was technically supposed to send this in October but I was to busy and exhausted)

Zoe watching Hazbin Hotel: .....Chloe!!

Chloe who just came out from taking a bath: What?

Zoe: I know who we can go as for the Halloween party!

Chloe: Really? Who?

Zoe: Charlie and Alastor from Hazbin hotel!

Chloe: *deadpan face* no.

Zoe: Oh come on! Plzz! I'll be Charlie and you'll be alastor!!

Chloe: *continues to do her hair* No.

Zoe: You don't even have to put on the wig and all that make up!!! Just wear the suit, use the staff, and have little antlers!! Plz!!

Chloe: mmmmm...no

Zoe: fine you give me no other choice but to use my secret weapon....*pulls out the puppy eyes* pretty please with a cherry on top!

Chloe: God dammit-

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chloe: I thought you said I didnt have to wear make up!

Zoe who's trying to put contacts in chloes eyes: and you don't but you still have to wear the contacts

Adrien bursting into the room: Ok! Here I am!! And I brought the mask!

Chloe: Mask?!

Zoe: Yeah since you not going to put on make up, I texted adrien to bring me his alastor mask

Adrien: You know the mask that shinsou has for his quirk?

Chloe: Yeah?

Adrien: Yeah so this mask is kinda like that, it makes your voice sound a bit radio-like like alastor's and it lights up whenever you speak

Zoe: so that means that your going to have to use your real voice....not that annoying raspy voice you use in class

Chloe: But-

Zoe: end of discussion.

Chloe: FINE *grabs the mask* *puts it on*

Adrien: Perfect! now both of you! Say something in character!

Zoe making her voice sound like charlie: Go to hell

Chloe getting into character: Already there darling!

Adrien: Perfect! Chloe you sound like a genderbent alastor! Which is exactly what we need!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-at the party-

Chloe: I can't believe you came as sailor moon

Adrien: Well I can't believe you came as alastor but here we are

Chloe: Touche

Nino: Adrien!! Is- is that a sailor moon costume-

Alya: wow....didn't know that our sunshine boy was a weeb

Mari: Zoe! You came as Charlie from hazbin hotel!! Awesome!

Zoe: Cool right! I actually have a partner to go with my costume!

Mari: really who?

Zoe: *points at chloe who was trying to hide behind adrien* her!

Mari: is she shy- wait- is that chloe?!

Zoe and adrien: Yes

Chloe: *waves*

*Chloe and Zoe begin to do a bunch of weird faces at each other*

Chloe: *sighs* *looks at adrien* *sighs again* hi👋

Alya: That- that's Chloe! Why is it deep?! Is it the mask?!

Zoe: No, it's not the mask...the only thing that the mask does is make her voice sound a bit radio-like to sound more like alastor

Mari: So you want us to believe that the Chloe we know, who's voice is annoyingly high and raspy supposedly has this smooth deep voice

Adrien: Yep

Alya: I don't buy it...

Adrien: Well send you a video later

Zoe: if you'll excuse me I want to sing something bye! *grabs chloe and begins to drag her away*

Chloe: Wait- you never said anything about singing- Zoe no- ZOE-

Adrien: And there they go.....yall better sit down or something....wouldn't want yall to faint....

Alya: Why would we need to sit down-

*the lights cut off*

Nino: The fuck-

*The lights turn on for the second floor*

(You know what fuck it) /pt1

Oh I love this already!

[witness-protection-official]

Warning! Lots more cussing this time, mention of doing drugs, and god tier acting from both parties

Also very long this time I spent a sold three hours writing this

Witness Protection - An Eyeless Jack x Female Reader Fanfiction

Chapter 3

You felt as though you were going insane. The man hadn't said a single word to you since the weird field area. Only lord knew if the ancient vehicle you sat in had a working radio. Asking was out of the question, you still had tape over your mouth. Couldn't check, you had tape gloves that went all the way up your arms, rendering them useless. With half lidded eyes, you stare at your disheveled figure in the side mirror. Dear god, you looked like shit. The blood on the side of your face had caked into a gross brown and was beginning to flake off, leaving you looking like you were a burn victim. You wince internally. You had mangled hair, with strands sticking every which way. Bags under the eyes displayed your lack of sleep and slowly depleting sanity. With a nearly inaudible groan, you tap your head against the glass. 'Can't he just kill me and get this over with? I don't know how much sitting in dead silence I'm going to be able to handle.' You slouch heavily, slowly sinking to the floor of the truck.

"You'll hurt your back sitting like that," his monotone voice stated off handedly. You huff and remain there. He sighs and grabs the back of your shirt, tugging you up to sit properly. You groan. Apparently sitting weirdly isn't even an option. He remains facing foward, not even glancing in your direction. Unable to spit insults at him, you level a heated glare at instead. He either doesn't notice or doesn't care. Maybe a good mix of both. It wasn't easy to tell how long you sat there, giving a dirty look to a man that probably couldn't even see you past the hood he had been wearing this entire time, but you assumed it had been about ten minutes or so. The truck suddenly stopped. You break out of your hate filled trance and look around. Why did he park in an actual parking lot? Was he going to let you go? The thought filled your heart with hope. He popped open the center console and pulled out a large bottle of what sounded like pills. Christ, was he about do just pop a few pills to deal with your bullshit? He pulled his mask off, placing it in the back seat. The cap popped off and he dumped a few out, throwing them into his mouth and closing the bottle. He pulled the hood down, giving you a clear view of the side of his head. You voice your distress at his appearance in muffled screams. He sighs heavily, leaning his head back against his seat, not seeming bothered. The screaming grew louder as his features shifted.

He opened his eyes and glanced at you, letting you get a clear view of his eyes. The screaming ceased in shock. How had you not seen them under his mask? With how bright the blue of his iris was, one would think they would glow in the dark. He pulled the visor down to examine his face in the small mirror embedded inside. He licked his teeth, turned his face from side to side. It finally clicked why he sounded familiar. He was the weird guy that had been staring at you when you changed out shifts with a coworker. You sigh internally. No point in thinking about it now, you guessed. He had murdered someone and kidnapped you, you had bigger things to worry about. His buckle clicked and you snapped out of your thoughts.

"I'll be back," he said simply, clicking something on the side of the door and closing it. Did- did that fucker just turn the child lock on?! Where the fuck were you gonna go in blood soaked clothes and taped up arms?! You send a hateful glare at his retreating form. He went into a store. A very large store. The fuck was he doing?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

He bit the inside of his cheek as he entered the store. Did she really have to scream like that? Probably, not everyday you see a man with grey skin. And it's also not everyday you see him suddenly become a shape shifter after popping some pills. Either way, it really wasn't a boost of confidence for his already weak self esteem. Whatever. He had a reputation to uphold, and that meant keeping his cool, constantly. He'd already almost lost it on her while she was being annoying the night before. No point in risking it now. Jack sighed and rubbed his eyes. He began his journey towards the clothes section of the store before he paused. He forgot to ask what her sizes were. He facepalmed. And she had been wearing heels too. He grumbled, figuring it'd be easier to deal with that later. Right now he had to focus on getting her clothes that weren't stained with blood. He debated on heading to the woman's section, guess her size. No, bad idea. Someone is bound to try to talk to him. He was a tall man, he had no reason to be in the woman's section, and people were bound to wonder. Both his pride and crippling social anxiety told him to not risk it. Avoid talking with people was a priority. With a deep breath, he swiveled on his heel, headed towards the mens. He'd just grab some smaller sized jeans or something. There was a time where baggy jeans were popular right? He furrowed his brows as he thought, as he did a lot. His mind continued to wander until he reached the clothes. He eyed the jeans and opted to grab a pair of skinny jeans, in a random size that looked like they would fit her. He wasn't exactly staring at her legs, so he hoped that brief mental image he had in his mind was enough. He turned to the shirts. Any of them would work, they just couldn't be too big. He really wasn't in the mood to listen to her bitch and whine about him being a 'pervert' because it dipped too low and showed her bra.

He grabbed a basic black tee, looking to be maybe a size smaller than he got his own shirts. That'll do. He got a second pair of pants and a second shirt, just for good measure. He bit his tongue. He knew a little bit about the hygenic needs of a woman, but he hadn't smelled any blood or hormonal spike on her, so he figured she'd be fine for now. As he made his way to a different part of the store, he passed a shelf of hoodies. He backed up. Should he get her a hoodie? That would be awfully nice of him. She had done nothing to deserve any form of kindness from Jack. Letting her live was the extent of his mercy for her. 'But if she isn't cold that's less things she'll have to bitch about…' he mulled it over in his head before deciding. He'd get another hoodie for himself and let her wear it passively. 'What a fucking genius you are, Jack, absolute genius' he congratulated himself, grabbing a dark colored hoodie that was in his size. He nodded, satisfied and went to get a few more items.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

You had been pretty confident he up and died in that store, he took so long. But alas, he had to return. You watched his form make it's way to your side of the truck and reflexively shifted away. He swung it open, placing the bags he held ontot he ground while he stood onto the step to reach your seatbelt clip. He tore off the tape, unclipping the restraint. The tape on your mouth went next.

"Spit an insult at me and I'll cut off your tongue," he quipped. You closed your mouth. "Good girl," he himself seemed to cringe at what he just said, judging by the sigh he released. You scrutinized his face as he worked on the tape on your arms with intense concentration. He had tiny freckles all over his face. They were so small it was impossible to see them from a distance, but they were everywhere. His nose, his cheeks, even the top of his neck and between his eyes. You would've found him attractive if you didnt know it wasn't what he actually looked like. Tanned skin and soft looking auburn hair helped him sell the whole 'fucking gorgeous' thing.

"What's with the whole 'pretty boy' get up?" you murmur. He pauses and looks up at you, confused. "why did you choose this look to be normal?" He searched her face for any underlying intentions. When he found none, he shrugged.

"Didn't get a choice," He finally managed to get the tape off of your hands and arms.

"You got damn lucky with it then, you coulda been ugly," you shrugged. He took a deep breath and didn't respond, instead reaching into the bag and pulling out a package of what appeared to be baby wipes. "I'm not a baby,"

"I noticed," he opened the package and pulled out a wipe. He gripped your jaw and turned your head to the side.

"I can do this myself,"

"Don't trust you," as usual, his response was simple. He wiped the dried blood off of your face rather harshly.

"Hey, hey! Be gentler! I'm not dead yet!" He growled lowly and held your face tighter in his hand, wiping the rest of the blood off of any currently visible skin. He took another wipe and used it to wipe off any tape or dirt residue off of you. "What gives with the mini bath?"

"You'll see," He pushed your head down, bending you so that your chest was pressed tightly against your thighs. He threw what you assumed to be the wipes into the back before letting you sit up again. He picked up the bag from off of the pavement and handed it to you. "Change," he closed the truck door. He must've gotten you clothes so you wouldnt be covered in blood constantly. You pull out a pair of jeans and a shirt, followed by an extremely oversized hoodie. You quirk a brow but peek out the window. The man was scrolling on his phone, back pressed against the car door. You deemed it safe to change and stripped down, pulling the new, clean clothes on. You rummaged through the bag some more and came across a hair brush, dry shampoo, and deodorant. Questionable items, but you put them to use. You felt like a human again. A soft knock on the window startled you. There he was. You blink dumbly at him. He points down. You look down. You had locked the door. With a sigh, you unlocked the door and he opened it.

"You didn't stare at me while I was changing, did you?" you narrow your eyes in suspicion.

"I've got no reason to," he took the hoodie out of the bag and threw it at you. "Wear it if you want," he threw the bag in the backseat. You huff and pull the sweater over your head. He closed the door and moved to the drivers side. He strapped in and started the truck.

"Why'd you make me freshen up and stuff?"

"You need food. I don't know what you want," He made the short drive to a gas station that was only about five minutes up the road. He unstrapped and went to your side, opening the door. "Out," You unstrapped and slipped out of the truck, a little wobbly from not standing for so long. The heels didn't help.

"You're coming in with me?"

"I'm the one with money,"

"There's another reason, isn't there,"

"That one is obvious. Now listen. You go in there, grab anything you need, and if anyone asks, I'm your boyfriend," he briefed.

"Why do I have to say you're my boyfriend?"

"You won't have to if you don't act suspicious, now lets go, I've spoken to much,"

"You got a word limit or something?"

"Mentally," he ushered you inside.

"You gonna act all boyfriendy?"

"Boyfriendy?"

"Are you gonna act like my boyfriend?"

"Yes, and you'll have to deal,"

"Ew, but why,"

"There won't be any kissing," he rolled his eyes.

"What if you need to?"

"I won't" he guided you to the hot foods area. "Now get your food," He stayed close as you grabbed two slices of pizza and a hot dog, putting them in mini bags. "Its a long drive, go get yourself some snacks," you nod and sort of hand him your hot food, which he holds with no complaint. His eyes hold a glimmer of warning, telling you not to do anything stupid.

You're examining the chips on the different shelves when some girl about your age comes up to you.

"Did you hear?" She leans in close.

"Hear what?" you tilt your head.

"About the murder at that hotel. Apparently the murderer took a hostage with them, one of the staff," you pretend to be shocked and that the hostage was 100% not you.

"Really?" top tier lying this was. You just hoped it was believable. She nodded.

"By the way that guy has kind of been staring you down this entire time," she whispered. "Hey, creep! Why don't you go bother some other chick-!"

"Wait! It's ok," you subtly gulp and turn to your kidnapper, acting as natural as possible. "Babe, are you gonna keep standing there like a stalker?" He shook his head.

"S-sorry," he chuckled awkwardly, moving to stand next to you. He somehow managed to look bashful, blush and all. His posture was slouched to look more weak and not as standoffish. He probably took an acting class at some point.

"Oh, you're dating," she seemed relieved. You nod. "Can I have proof?"

"Why- why do you need proof that we're dating?"

"With the whole hostage thing I just wanna make sure he isn't the murderer, or you aren't, you never know,"

"It does make a bit of sense," your abductor agreed, somehow flying through this whole interaction look weak and pathetic, and making it look like he was completely off the list of possible suspects. She raised her eyebrows, waiting. He looks down at you and you look up at him, seeming to have the same idea. He lean down and you meet him halfway in a short kiss. The taste of iron and blood you expected never showed up. When you two pulled away from each other, the woman visibly relaxed.

"Alright, sorry for being weird. Have a nice day!" she waved. You waved along with the man. He grabs your hand.

"She made a scene, we gotta keep up the appearance," he whispered as he leaned down, followed by a kiss on the cheek to cover it up. You notice some people were definitely staring.

"Got it," you whisper back. Pulling your hand away from his you grab a bag of chips. "Do we wanna get chips or something else for the trip?"

"You'll be eating them more than me,"

"Yeah but I don't want you to think I'm greedy for eating them all,"

"I won't think you're greedy,"

"Yes you will," you put the chips back.

"You can get the chips, babe," You whine.

"But-!"

"You're fine," he took the chips off of the shelf and placed them in your hands. He mouthed something to you. 'Jack'. You assumed that was his name.

"You sure, Jackie? You're 100% sure?"

"Yes," You shrug and grab the collar of his hoodie and yank him down, planting a kiss on his cheek.

"Thank you," you coo. He hums and pecks your lips. The line is fairly short as you two go to pay. Jack pays and before you leave the guy manning the register bids you farewell.

"Be safe, you two lovebirds,"

"We will, have a nice day!" The moment you're both in the car you place the bag down and go to fetch the wet wipes to wipe your mouth off. They wer to far back and you sighed. "You're a really good actor," you comment. "Your affection felt real," he hums.

"Likewise," he seemed greatly uncomfortable, and it made you wonder what he meant by metal word limit. Either that or he just really did not like pretending to be dating his hostage. You shrug. Best to ask once you've eaten. You unwrap your hotdog and take a bite.

[caranfindel]

Recap/review 14.13: “Lebanon”

THEN: They hit me right in the face with gorgeous young 1.01 Dean saying "Dad's on a hunting trip and he hasn't been home in a few days" and beautiful baby 1.01 Sam saying "we've got work to do" and we end with 14.12 and Sam furiously punching his brother and then furiously hugging him and Dean saying "let's go home" and does anything else matter? No.

NOW: We see the reflection of Sam and Dean walking up to a pawn shop, with a nice selection of guitars and sunglasses and that weird monkey that was in Rocky's Bar. The proprietor seems friendly enough. Dean flashes him a wad of hundred dollar bills because they're looking for "the really good stuff." This gains them admittance into a secret back room full of things hunters would be interested in, including a hockey mask (?) and a perfume atomizer full of dragon's breath. They tell the guy they're looking for the skull of a specific woman who was executed during the Salem witch trials, and the fact that he has it basically proves that he killed the friend of theirs who previously owned it. (Also Sam picks up a teddy bear and starts to pull the string to make it speak and the guys warns him not to and this is Dean's role, isn't it, messing with things he shouldn't be messing with? But I don't care because chastized Sam and eye-rolly Dean are precious to me.)

Sam goes through a ledger of the guy's inventory and says he's got a lot of occult objects that they should take with them. (Dean plays with the dragon's breath. Sam ducks and flinches and does the really, Dean? thing with his hands and face. I laugh again.) Dean agrees they should take the stuff home.

Title card!

The Impala zooms past a sign welcoming us to Lebanon, Geographical Center of the USA. Then we find ourselves in front of a movie theater showing Beetlejuice and Hell Hazers (All Saints' Day is coming soon, and I imagine Route 666 can't be far behind), where a group of teenagers is talking about... somebody. "People say they're brothers," a kid in a knit cap says, "but all I know is, I was standing right here, and I heard this bam from the trunk of their car. And then, this like, shallow breathing." I'm pretty sure this is a fake-out, and it will turn out he's talking about someone else, but the Impala pulls up in front of the theater and Knit Cap Kid says "that's them!"

As the Winchesters get out of the car and enter a liquor store (decorated with that Family Business neon sign from Rocky's), Sam is still reading the ledger, which lists things like a hangman's rope, fairy dust, and John Wayne Gacy's cigar box. Well, that's oddly specific! The guy working there greets the "Campbell brothers" and knows their usual order. Oh, wow. I love that they're actually known in Lebanon, and that they're going by Campbell. And we know that actual Lebanon, Kansas is too small to have a movie theater or this much business downtown, but I'm happy to handwave that.

What do you mean, "happy to handwave that?" You're always complaining about the inaccuracies regarding tiny Lebanon having traffic cams and whatnot.

Well, maybe this episode just MAKES ME HAPPY, okay?

Anyway. Sam thinks cataloguing the confiscated items would be a good way to take Dean's mind off "things," but Dean's pretty convinced nothing will ever take his mind off that.

Outside, the teens are asking where the guys even come from, and what about their weird trenchcoat-wearing sidekick, and "that kid with the dumb Bambi look on his face all the time" (!) One girl says that, whatever the deal is with these guys, they do have an awesome car, and no one can argue with that. And the other girl, Max, who seems to smitten with the first girl, gets an idea.

Inside, Sam has discovered something significant in the ledger - the "beyzoo" (no, I know that's not how you spell it), which is one of eight ancient Chinese treasures. A pearl that gives you "what your heart desires." Oooh, getting rid of Michael, maybe? But as the guys are discussing this, Dean sees the Impala drive by the window. Guess Max figured out how to impress that other girl! (BTW, there are couple of COOL old trucks on the street.)

The guys see Knit Cap Kid standing on the sidewalk looking confused, and while Sam tells him the car is dangerous to whoever stole it, Dean looks like he wants to murder someone. And yet the Winchesters are confused when the kid says he doesn't want to die. (Or get locked in the trunk!) He says Max is new and he doesn't know where she lives. Dean raises a fist, but Sam pulls him away.

MURDER. I'D MURDER THEM.

Post office. There's a poster of stamps featuring old cars behind the customer service counter. I'm really getting my old truck fix tonight. Sam comes in with his sweet anxious smile and asks for help finding the girl who washed his car, since he forgot to tip her. Post Office Lady is not amused or helpful, or the least bit swayed by his sweet anxious smile. Then Dean comes in and calls her by name and asks about her grandson and she MELTS and he gets sincere and puts his hand on hers and she does exactly what I would do, which is offer up ANYTHING YOU WANT, ANYTHING AT ALL, WOULD YOU LIKE MY SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER WHILE I'M AT IT? Unfortunately, all she knows is where Max's mother works.

SAM’S FACE.

(Sidebar: Have I mentioned that Sam is wearing that nice blue jacket from the episode where he killed the alpha vampire? I like it. Toss that stupid orange jacket, Sam, and wear this more often. And Dean's wearing the black jacket that I always love.)

At the restaurant where Max's mom works, we learn that she has no idea where her daughter is, because she was supposed to be in school. But the guy working in the kitchen knows February 7 is Skip Day (is it always February 7? what about when that falls on a weekend?) and that she'll probably be at a party at this old house on Route 36. (Yes, I did confirm that Route 36 is just outside of Lebanon. Yes, I did use Mapquest. I'm old school up in here, y'all.)

Party house. The little batch of delinquents has taken all the boxes of occult objects out of the Impala for some reason. Including the evil teddy bear. Luckily, someone announces "pizza's here" before a girl pulls the teddy bear's string. At some point I've got to find out what would happen if you pulled it. Fic it for me, friends! (Also, I just noticed the teddy bear's mouth is SEWN SHUT and that's not creepy AT ALL.) The camera slowly pans to a wooden box, and we watch the lid open to reveal a smoky/dusty ghost hand. With a ruffled sleeve. Uh oh.

Knit Cap Kid runs in to warn the partiers that "those guys" are looking for Max, and he's told to chill. Another teen goes into the bathroom, where the mirror frosts over and then the CREEPIEST CLOWN EVER comes out of it. Seriously, creepier than the clown in Plush, which you wouldn't think was possible.

The Winchesters pull up in yet another antique truck, where Dean greets his car with "Baby, Baby, please tell me you're not hurt." Sam's more concerned about the boxes of dangerous occult objects missing from the back seat. Ghost Kid comes running outside and the girl following him tells the brothers that he saw a clown ghost that tried to kill him. Maybe it's my imagination, or maybe Sam has a flash of crap, a killer clown ghost expression before they run into the house.

Dean announces they're FBI and everyone needs to get out, now. Once the room is cleared, he asks if "anything screams clown to you?" Sam immediately notices John Wayne Gacy's cigar box and guys, I'm ashamed to say I didn't put the two together until now. The killer clown ghost is John Wayne Gacy. And Sam is freaked the fuck out about it. "We should burn that right now," Dean says, in a lovely holding-in-the-freakout way, and Sam rushes to throw it into the fireplace. Then Dean says "I mean, this is like a best worst thing that's ever happened, because you love serial killers, but you hate clowns" and I'm DEAD. (I'm also loving TWO gifts from the Continuity Fairy in once sentence.) The lights start flashing before Sam can get his lighter lit, and then the killer clown ghost shows up and tosses Dean around. Knit Cap Kid and the girls run back inside just in time to watch John Wayne Gacy's ghost go up in flames. So the kids get the "monsters are real" speech and are told to keep it secret.

Back at the bunker, Sam's going through the occult goodies and thinks he found the magic pearl. Dean's ready to use it right now, and dismisses Sam's suggestion that they call Mary or Cas. If it doesn't work, he doesn't want to have gotten their hopes up. Sam looks distressed at the idea it won't work, but agrees. The pearl doesn't come with any instructions, so Sam suggests Dean hold it and concentrate on what his heart desires. "Michael out of my head," Dean says, and I'd have been more specific. I'd have concentrated on Michael out of my head and destroyed, and me perfectly fine, but, well, what do I know?

(Also, I KNOW all you Wincest and Destiel fans are gonna have your own ideas about what - or who - appears in front of Dean when he’s granted what his heart desires. This setup is better than sex pollen. Have fun, my kinky little friends.)

Dean clutches the pearl and concentrates, and the lights flash and then go out, and in the red emergency light we see someone in the bunker. Someone fighty, who knocks both brothers down and then pulls out a shotgun and says "don't you move," but it's a familiar voice and then the lights come on and what do you know? Winchester Surprise!

So, was anybody truly surprised? I covered the guest stars on first viewing, as I always try to do, but I noticed on rewatch that they didn't even credit JDM at the beginning of the episode. Which they sometimes do, to avoid spoilers. And yet. Has there been a single episode of this series that was more spoiled? I don't think so.

(Sidebar: What do you think would have happened if Sam had taken the pearl and made a wish? I think Michael would be gone. Because I don't think there's anything Sam wants more than saving his brother.)

Back to our story. Everyone is shocked. John thinks Sam should be in Palo Alto, apparently in his 14th year of post graduate work. He thinks he's still in 2003, and he doesn't notice his boys are older. And they apparently don't notice that his hair is very short and a lot greyer than it was when we last saw him. (I mean, really, they slapped a wig on Samantha Smith to make her look like The Last Version Of Mary, so why couldn't they do the same thing with JDM? It's distracting.) Sam figures they must have accidentally summoned John from the past. So they do what one does in this situation - sit down and drink.

John's astonished. Dean's proud. Sam's visibly anxious. We don't get to see exactly how much of the backstory they tell him, but they do tell him about the apocalypse and Lucifer and living with "an angel and Lucifer's kid." And now John thinks he died "taking out Yellow Eyes," which... not really? But okay. And they don't tell him Mary's back, until he mentions her and Sam's, all, yeah, about Mom, and then she comes in and John hears her voice and tears up and dammit. This reunion is everything I didn't think I ever wanted. I mean, I've made no secret of the fact that I'm not a fan of John Winchester. He's a fascinating character and JDM does a great job with him, but he's such an awful father (don't bother arguing with me, you will not change my mind) that I can't really like him. And I'm not too impressed with resurrected Mary, either. But when these two come together... damn. It's good. It's very good. Well done, you two.

I love that the boys give them some privacy, because it's been over a decade since John saw them, but it's been even longer since he saw his dead wife, and this should really be a John and Mary reunion.

Out in the hall, Dean's gleeful and Sam's all, how the hell did this happen? Dean explains that he's wanted this since he was four years old (oh, my heart) but Sam warns that messing with time will not end well. I don't actually remember Sam being that concerned about the unintended consequences of time travel, but I'm sure there's a good reason he's bringing it up now. Dean doesn't care. Dean just wants one family dinner together (oh, my heart again, remembering his one last dinner with Mary).

Sam, sans Dean, runs into John in the library, because Mary's off making a shopping list and he decided he'd rather examine the bunker than be involved in that I guess? Okay. But then this happens.

I screwed up with you a lot, didn't I?

No, that's okay.

No, it's not. Sammy, tell me the truth.

I don't want to talk about that.

You didn't have a problem talking about it before you left.

Dad. For me, that fight, that was a lifetime ago. I don't even remember what I said. I mean, yeah, you know, you did some messed-up things. But I don't... I mean, when I think about you... and I think about you a lot... I don't think about our fights. I think about you... I think about you on the floor of that hospital, and I think about how I never got to say goodbye.

Sam. Son. I am so sorry.

I'm sorry too. But you did your best, Dad. You fought for us, and you loved us. And that's enough.

OH MY GOD. This is everything I ever wanted.

1. John admitting he was a crap parent to Sam.

2. Sam trying to sidestep that - because he's Sam Winchester and that's what he does - and John not letting him.

3. Sam finally calling him out instead of just saying nah, it's fine.

4. John calling him Sammy.

5. Sam pointing out that he didn't get a goodbye from John. (Did he ever find out that Dean got praise and an apology?)

6. John apologizing.

7. Sam forgiving him.

8. "And I think about you a lot."

9. The way Sam keeps having to stop talking and look away and make that little "hmmm" noise.

10. And the tears.

10b. The way Sam tears up even before The Talk, when he remembers them as kids trying to make Winchester Surprise.

11. The shaky voice.

12. And Sam's shirt.

13. And the way Sam's expression looks so much like his expression in Sacrifice, when he tells Dean that his confession was about how he let his brother down.

This, right here, is two minutes and 24 seconds of the best television I've ever seen. I don't care what else this episode does, this 2:24 is worth it. And yes, this is three weeks in a row that Jared Padalecki has ripped my heart out of my chest and STOMPED ON IT.

And I love it.

Meanwhile, Dean gets the shopping list from Mary. Sam finds him and tells him he's right, because Sam also just got everything he ever wanted, and then offers to go shopping with him. (Saaaaaaaaaaammmmmmmmm!!!!!!!)

When they get to town, the guys split up - Sam to the grocery store, Dean to the liquor store. Dean's surprised to see the liquor store guy, the one who remembered his "usual" earlier in the day, has no idea who he is. If Dean had ever seen "It's a Wonderful Life," he might say this is just like when George Bailey goes into Martini's Bar and isn't recognized. But apparently Dean Winchester, pop culture aficionado, has never seen that movie (no, I haven't gotten over that, and I never will) so he doesn't recognize a classic uh oh, we changed the course of history moment when he experiences it.

Meanwhile, Sam steps out of the grocery store and finds that neither Max nor the postal clerk recognize him. And then he sees a wanted poster in the post office window. Dean Winchester, wanted for assault, murder, and credit card fraud. Whoops! He trots to the car, where Dean is waiting, and tells him they have a problem. "Yeah, we do," says Dean. "Check this out."

He shows Sam his phone and it's a video of SAM IN GLASSES AND A BLACK TURTLENECK AND SLICKED BACK HAIR GIVING A TED TALK. HE RUNS A LAW FIRM AND LOVES KALE. IT IS THE SECOND MOST AMAZING THING I'VE SEEN TONIGHT.

HE'S STEVE JOBS.

So, those of you who were spoiled... did you know about this? Or did they actually keep THIS AMAZING THING under wraps?

Sam Jobs tells his audience that being your best leaves no time for hobbies or a family, and Sam has seen enough. He tells Dean about the wanted poster, and Dean says yes, of course he googled himself too ("a lot of beheadings," hee!!!) and wonders if there are alternate versions of them running around. Sam thinks it's a "temporal paradox," and time is self-correcting, changing to the new one. If they don't fix things, they'll become those alternate versions of themselves. "Well, I'm cool," Dean says, "but you're, ugh." Sam's less worried about them, and more worried about what else might have changed.

(Sidebar: You know, I could quibble about why bringing John forward in time has such a significant butterfly effect, but bringing Mary back, and their other time travel, and Henry's time travel, changed nothing. I absolutely could. But I choose not to, because SAM JOBS, Y'ALL. But okay, let's think about it. 2003 John would have disappeared while Sam was at Stanford. Dean wouldn't have gone to get Sam. Or Sam would have refused to go. Maybe the hurt on both sides was still too fresh. Maybe that's why Dean's hunting alone, and Sam's an internet-famous lawyer.)

What else has changed, you might ask? How about ZACHARIAH? That's right, my favorite angel is back. And with him is ORIGINAL FLAVOR CAS WITH HIS FLUFFY HAIR AND THINGS JUST KEEP GETTING BETTER AND BETTER. Zachariah calls him "Constantine" and Castiel says "I don't understand that reference" and THANK YOU BABY JESUS, I DON'T KNOW WHAT I DID TO DESERVE THIS, BUT THANK YOU. They enter Max's mom's restaurant and ask who's been messing with time. (Because she would know?) And if they don't start talking, he'll have Cas murder all of them. "My name is Castiel," he intones solemnly. "I'm an angel of the Lord." YES YOU ARE. He reveals himself like he did to Dean (no, not like that, jeez) with the shadow wings. Outside, the Winchesters see the bright light of an angelic reveal coming through the restaurant windows, and they know something's up.

They herd everyone out of the restaurant, and are shocked to see Cas and Zachariah. Zachariah is equally surprised to see them. He says they had big plans for the Winchesters, but then their father disappeared and... and he doesn't finish, so we'll never know why yoinking John out of 2003 changed any of that vessel stuff. (Handwave!) Cas, of course, doesn't know them, and when Zachariah orders him to kill them, he complies.

Dean pulls out an angel blade but is, of course, unwilling to actually kill Cas, so he starts hitting him with other things. And Cas, for whatever reason, doesn't just put a finger on his forehead and kill him dead. (Handwave!) Zachariah chokes Sam and asks him what they did, even though he can't talk because he's choking (handwave!) and Sam acts like he's trying to speak so Zachariah gets closer to hear him, and Sam stabs him with an angel blade. Cas continues fistfighting with both of them, and slams Sam head-first into a table a couple of times, leaving him spitting blood on the floor. Which Sam uses to paint an angel-banishing sigil while Cas is choking Dean. Smart Sam for the win!

Bunker. Pretty bruised Dean has explained the temporal paradox, and John accepts that he has to go back, or else Mary will probably disappear. "Okay," he says. "I mean, me versus your mom, that's not even a choice." DAMMIT JOHN WINCHESTER DO NOT MAKE ME CARE ABOUT YOU. Elsewhere, pretty bruised Sam explains it to Mary, and tells her John won't remember anything.

John tells Dean he never meant Dean to have this kind of life. He's proud of him, but he hoped he'd be able to have a normal life, with a family. "I have a family," Dean says. They sit down and have one final family meal together, and everyone's quiet and sad until John points out that they can either think about what's going to happen, or appreciate what they have right now. They cheer up and listen to Bob Seger (well, we listen to Bob Seger) and talk and laugh and have the family dinner Dean has always wanted.

Later, while doing the dishes, Sam says how unfair it is that they all had this and then have to throw it away, and John has to go back to being Dad. He thinks it would be nice for John to go back knowing what he knows now. "I used to think that too," Dean says, and admits that he's blamed both John and Mary for their crappy lives. And if they could send him back to 2003, or even earlier, maybe none of the crap would happen. "But here's the problem. Who does that make us? Would we be better off? Maybe. But I gotta be honest, I don't know who that Dean Winchester is. And I'm good with who I am. I'm good with who you are."

Later. Mary and John are holding hands, and I guess they're doing the thing now. I'd hoped they'd at least let these two have one last roll in the hay (especially since I'm pretty sure Mobby is permanently done after this), but no. They have a very sweet goodbye and their sons are brokenhearted and I am too. John tells his boys to take care of each other and Sam says "we always do." That's a nice change from telling Dean to take care of Sam, isn't it? He tells them both (BOTH) that he's proud of them and loves them, and they have a three-way hug and Sam wipes his eyes and Dean says "love you too" and I REALLY CAN'T, BOYS, YOU HAVE TO STOP. Then John takes Mary's hand again and Sam crushes the pearl (why does Sam have to be the one to do it?) and John glows and then fades away.

We get a quick glimpse of downtown Lebanon returning to normal, and the three teens talking about how cool it is that "those guys hunt monsters," and then we're back to the bunker. Cas walks in the door and sees the remaining Winchesters, obviously distressed, and asks what happened. "Well, there's a story," says Dean.

And finally, we see the Impala WITH HER ORIGINAL KANSAS PLATE. John's asleep in the driver's seat when he gets a phone call from Dean. "No, I'm okay, I just had one hell of a dream. No, it was a good one."

GUYS. GUYS.

When I heard there was going to be a musical episode for the 200th, I was sure it would suck. When I heard about the Scooby Doo crossover, I cringed, because I knew it would be awful. WHY AM I ALWAYS SO WRONG.

Eh, who cares why. Let's just appreciate what we were given. Happy 300, my friends. Here's to 300 more.

(Please help me stay unspoiled for future episodes, thanks!)

[applejongho]

one of my friends also likes to play it, i might try it as well 😊 I'm not a video game person either I'm just so bad at them jshdhdh

omg yaaaay you finished your gift 😍😍 I'm sure it turned out amazing and omg 5k words.. it must've taken a long time to write it!! but it shows that you're a wonderful a secret santa and it's not just a half-assed present 😊😊 I'm sure she'll love it!!! 💕 also please don't kill me if i won't be able to finish your gift for the 25th 😭😭 there's so much stuff to do at home that i didn't expect at all and i don't have that much free time 😭 but i have all the ideas in my head and I'm already working on it so I'm hopeful I'll finish it in time!!! you deserve it to be ready on christmas 😊

omg it's become a bad habit for me to stay up until very late, it started back in high school, idk i can be a lot more productive during the night when no one's bothering me lol but then I'm tired the whole day and can't be too productive and when i should go to bed i force myself to stay up jdjdjdjd but it's getting somewhat better now. but i feel you, being awake at night is indeed an experience jdjdjd sometimes i get so hyped for no reason and I'm like ???? where's all that energy during the day lmaooo and yeah I'm kinda on a very long break 😂 I'm taking a break from my studies atm so I've been on a break since february. and i start again in february but I'm not ready hdhdhd

oh god my absolute fav skz song is voices!!!! i don't think skz can ever top that for me lmao it was love at first listen and then i read the lyrics and it just hits hard :'))) i also really love phobia, back door and ta!!! but they have such an amazing discography there's barely a song i don't like! actually i didn't like side effects at first but then i became obsessed lol and the tortoise and the hare it's so weird and different it's so cool!

yessss skz slayed that performance!! 😍😍 they're so talented and amazing and looked so good!!! and it was definitely a win for stayarmys haha - 🎅

Omg don't feel pressured to have it done on the 25th! There is a week deadline and if that means posting your gift a little later, then that's okay :)))

Awww I hope your break is going well :) idk if you feel the same but I definitely get a lot more "responsible" in terms of sleep and just general well being when school is in session so hopefully that will happen when you start back in February! But bruh I can't imagine having your one month off and then covid hits and you can't do anything, and now it's still here in December 😭 I live in the US so that ofc has been a ride 🙃 like ofc I've been extremely responsible, wearing a mask and putting on hand sanitizer all the time whenever I touch something in public but I see some people just,,, not wearing a mask and it pisses me off to no end

VOICES HITS DIFFERENT OMG when I first heard it I cried 😭 it has a similar weight on me as levanter, the lyrics just hit deep and it's so sadly relatable. I always consider voices my anxiety song since I struggle w anxiety, like "step out of the voices" is like skz singing for me to stop spiraling in thoughts :) and the back and forth part of Changbin and Han gets me everytime as well

I remember listening to tortoise and the hare for the first time and I was like wtf is this but then,,, I replayed it,,, and it was literally so addicting and then the next thing I know I'm listening to it all the time 😅😂 someone on twt said it's the bohemian rhapsody of kpop and I can't let go of that

stayarmys stay winning yes :') do you stan bts as well? Or any other groups? There's a few groups I listen to casually (day6, gidle, twice, ateez) but I wouldn't say I'm a stan, but low-key I may get into ateez haha. It's just a matter of me sitting down and listening to their music which is exactly what ended up happening w skz

[ffxvhoe]

This is a bit of an oddball and really open but I was curious if you had any general headcannons for the gods? It's so cool that each of them have their own personalities attached (Ifrit's lazy almost cat-like lounging at first, Shiva's gentle wiseness, etc etc) and I'm interested in your take on them

So basically they’re one big dysfunctional family.

Also it seems I’ve fallen in love with each of them and now they’re all my children.

Titan

A HUFFLEPUFF

Is so, so gentle like it would melt your heart if you saw him on a typical day in the land of the Astrals

Tends to both a regular garden and a rock garden

His favorite plants are these silver petaled flowers that only grow in the world of the Astrals and hibiscus

Gets along with animals really well??  His particular favorite are cats

Takes pride in the fact that Leviathan actually considers him a friend of hers

He knew that the others were wrong to brand her as such a terrible person; they just needed to put in the effort to get to know her…though he does admit that her attitude could uh….use just a little bit of work

They’ll get there and he’ll help in whatever way he can

Basically just think Hunk from Voltron tbh

Suffers from being labeled as some scary monster by the mortals, and it didn’t help when everything happened at the Disc with Ardyn and Noct and the gang

Has been taken under Bahamut’s wing though Titan doesn’t rely on him as much these days as he had previously

Dislikes the world of the mortals, especially after having been there for so long

He’s particularly sensitive to negativity and there’s a lot of that in the mortal realm

Does enjoy the mortal realm for it’s flora and fauna though

Usually on the quieter side of the scale, but not an introvert

He enjoys going out with the others to go drinking and such

Plus he knows it makes it easier for Leviathan to relax when he’s with her since as she gets along with him the best

Ramuh

True Neutral

He’s something between the wise old man and everyone’s favorite grandpa idk it’s weird

Acted as Shiva’s mentor for a while

Is the oldest among the Astrals

Is actually from an older pantheon of gods (like how the Titans were the pantheon of gods that preceded the Olympians)

There’s a few reasons that he doesn’t act as leader though.  The first is that the idea of being a leader has never quite appealed to him.  He’d much rather be the one to speak words of wisdom and let the other young ones do the fighting and whatnot.  The second is that he has seen the potential Bahamut has and would much rather help the Draconian reach his full potential as leader

The real reason he wears that cape is because he thinks it makes him look cool

Is the only one that Leviathan will respect as being above herself and go to for guidance

Occasionally struck with the desire to no longer be an immortal 

Sometimes, when he’s look down at the mortals below he’s hit with how utterly tired he is of living for eternity

When he gets like this he wants nothing more than to become a spry old man and go backpacking through the lands of Eos

Walks with a limp

Actually, in a way you could almost say that he parallels Regis I think

Pitied Ardyn for what happened/became of him

Ifrit

Relating him to a Greek deity he’d be Ares

Not necessarily a Chad™ but his personality can border on being one of Chad’s friends

Ultimately though has a very strong moral compass, but he doesn’t really go about it in the best way

Honestly though do ya’ll remember Sky High? Because Ifrit is lowkey the guy that could use fire just more of an asshole

Will protect Shiva at all costs

She’s basically his little sister at this point, like he’s taken it upon himself to be something akin to her protector

Not that she needs one though lol

Will go out of his way to do exactly what Bahamut told him not to do

Bahamut: Ifrit no

Ifrit: Ifrit YES

Respects Leviathan immensely 

Griffyndor 

Enjoys getting pedicures and will legit smite anyone who tries to give him shit for it

Nobody else knows this as he’s very good at keeping his aloof mask on, but he is sometimes hurt by the fact that everyone pegs him as some evil deity just because he happens to have something of a temper and can control fire

Um…kinda think Zuko but then more of an asshole I guess

Doesn’t really like mortals

Shiva

Relating her to a Greek deity she’d probably be Persephone or Hestia

A gentle sort of quiet surrounds her

Think comfortable silence among friends, the quiet of the dawn when the world is just awaking, and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops that only have a few patrons within

Does not like Leviathan…there’s some bad blood there

Enjoys walking among the mortals on their small world

She thinks mortals are amazing creatures, constantly making new discoveries to curb their ever persistent curiosity

Can be found walking through some of the gardens in that immortal world of the Astrals with Bahamut

She makes him flower crowns

A walking library

She knows and remembers every little thing that has happened both in immortal history and mortal history

She’s one of those people that is super sweet and caring, but if you mess with them they’ll fuck you up

Is the only one that can successfully knock Bahamut on his ass

Everyone is lowkey terrified of her

Ifrit is like her big brother tbh that’s the type of relationship those two have

Enjoys bubble baths

She’s particularly fond of these bath bombs that the mortals have created

Leviathan

Relating her to a Greek deity they’d be Hera

With that being said, Leviathan is kind of a bitch 

I feel bad relating them to Hera bc Hera’s my boo but Hera can also be kind of a bitch so…

If someone is lucky enough to befriend her, however, they have someone who will have their back for the rest of eternity

Think Slytherin 

Leviathan is closest with Titan which most find odd due to the fact Titan is literally just…super sweet

*cough* Slytherpuff friendship *cough*

She appreciated the fact that Titan gave them the benefit of the doubt when the other Astrals told Titan that Leviathin was a terrible person

Doesn’t much care for mortals ((as we’ve all witnessed)) but won’t go out of their way to kill them

Was actually against the whole prophecy thing hence why they made it so difficult to form the covenant 

Argued it would be easier to either get rid of the problem themselves or simply wipe out the entire planet and start again

Also may have grown to have something of a soft spot for Luna and she didn’t want the prophecy to play out bc of the impact it would ultimately have on Luna’s happiness

Only one that can reign in Ifrit

Bahamut

The ever stoic warrior

He’s very quiet, very reserved, very calculating

Is closest to Shiva out of all the other Astrals as he prefers her company since she’s also on the quieter side and thus doesn’t try to force conversation with him 

As he’s the most powerful of the Astrals he pretty much works as their leader

Not really a King like Zeus was of the Pantheon, but more so in the way he keeps them in order and whatnot

Doesn’t get along with Ifrit but they work really well on the battlefield together??? Idk man it’s strange

Have you ever heard of the term introversion?  Because the word was pretty much created for this Astral

Doesn’t like going out to drink with the rest of the Six, much prefers staying in his home and reading or making battle strategies

A decent cook, not that Astrals need to eat or cook in the first place

If you can’t find Bahamut he’s likely flying

It’s a way for him to destress and he also just likes the freedom of it

[geekgemsspooksandtoons]

So, I was updating my last reblog until I saw you reblogged it. So I decided to respond right away.

I was gonna say that I forgot this part. The thing I was thinking about. In a way, The Mask Rebirth like Bioshock Rebirth is like a what if scenario in a way. Mainly the idea of, "What if Stanley didn't wear the mask first in the comics?" Which sounds weird and some things are different in this world.

Fuck, I'll say it. It's basically Zack Snyder's The Mask when I think about it and how I approached this series. XD

Ohhhh the balance of tone the originals had. I get it now. I was thinking more in line of how the character is meant to be portrayed. But yes, the type of someone Dark Horse needs if they revive the character again. Alright, got distracted haha.

Awww that's kind of you to say mate. I wanted to say I just really liked this world and it's characters. It feels like something that's within my style and other things.

Ah yes, cynical just to be cynical. Think I agree with that. And I wanna make this. Okay too much time taken to look for that panel of how she exactly says this. So I'm going back to the line and making it it's own.

-

Kathy from the story to Kellaway when he mentions Big Head: It could be a she. So don't be a sexist.

GeekGem:......okay. Listen, I get you're acting a part in a comic. I think you becoming mayor is cool in this story. And after all of the shit you went through when I think about it. It's cool you made Edge City a better place. But...was that line necessary? And you should know Kellaway is not gonna use the mask again after nearly killing his best friend...and just....I understand you need to be tough...it doesn't matter what gender Big Head is this time. What matters is that Big Head is back. So what you said...I'm no expert. This is just my opinion. Also, why is Stanley in your flashback or so have a tie when he didn't in the original comic?

Kathy: Hey, I didn't write the comic. I'm just saying the lines they write. And the Stanley part that doesn't come around till the next issue or so...that's the artist's job...again. Its the writers, I'm just being an actor.

Kellaway: Yeah...this comic strangely feels weird.

GeekGem: And yeah...Kathy is right...and I mean the comic is weird that they kill one of the more underloved characters in the franchise who was sensible when I think about it...and I'm talking about Lionel. I'm gonna go back having a pizza with Lionel while you guys finish this issue.

Also GeekGem after that: I miss Walter.

*Originally I was gonna have Owen Big Head appear being the one criticizing the comic. But it made more sense that it's made. XD*

-

Since that part took long. Thank you for saying. However I wanted to word this or so. It's nice mixing Bill Cipher with Spider-Man 3 Venom and maybe a little bit of original Venom lol.

Edit update considering all this. These are just all ideas. I may not pursue, "I Pledge Allegiance To The Mask" as inspiration for any possible stories. But some elements will be taken. And it's there if I ever want to use it.

Edit update again because I forgot to mention this and can't edit it on my main computer. John also wrote the Living Ipkiss story too.

Because I just wanna make this.

Steven Listor: For the love of God! Please don’t kill me! I can give you whatever want!….probably! 

Big Head: Ah no dude! I’m not gonna kill you. No, no! All I just want to talk about is Wander Over Yonder!

Steven Listor:….what?

Big Head: You never heard of the show!? It’s one of the greatest cartoons ever made! An masterpiece that was sadly canceled by Disney after only two seasons. It’s a crime honestly.

Steven Listor:….wha-what!? A cartoon!? 

Big Head: Listen, before the cops get here. I just really wanna talk about it with you. *Starts blabbing about it*

Steven Listor:

[inktae]

for the bangtan asks, young forever, whalien 52 (lol), 2!3!, wings, and reflection

young forever: what is one movie from your childhood that you will always treasure?the lion king was the first movie I ever watched (according to my parents I was only 1, and some of the first words I said were related to it), and I rewatched it every year during all of my childhood. it has the biggest place in my heart ^^

whalien 52: weirdest thing that has ever happened to you? alternatively, weirdest dream you’ve ever had?one time I was going back home from a party (it was late at night) and I clearly remember seeing two boys standing with their bikes by my building, one was wearing a Scream mask and I think the other one was wearing a Hulk one (it wasn’t halloween or a particularly special day). they just stood there by the building for a few seconds before leaving in complete silence, and I just thought it was so freaking weird and random haha. it’s also such a weird memory to keep because this happened like 5 years ago lmao. as for dreams.. bruh I can’t remember rn even though I always have the weirdest dreams ever ;^; hmm the only one that comes to mind is one where I was taking this futuristic airplane where the structure was completely transparent, so it felt like you were standing on the clouds as it flew across the sky. it was a bit scary but also really cool! I also remember it resembled a rollercoaster because the plane kept doing some crazy loops ahaha.also, this might not qualify as ‘weird’ but I still perfectly remember the only induced lucid dream I’ve ever had. a few minutes before falling asleep I read about lucid dreaming and how to realize you’re dreaming, and I did exactly that when I started dreaming that night - I remember looking at my hands and not seeing any lines in my palms, so I went “oh, there are no lines, so I’m dreaming.” I remember feeling at a loss as to what to do so I decided to jump and see if I could fly, and I did!! it was the weirdest sensation and it scared me SO much that I forced myself to wake up ahaha. I haven’t tried to induce another lucid dream since then, but I really want to do it again one day!

2!3!: your favorite thing about bangtan?their interactions among themselves! seeing such a tight-knit group being so natural and relaxed with each other is always very comforting.

wings: on airplanes, do you prefer the window seat, the middle seat, or the aisle seat?I always go for the window seat even though I’m the most anxious flyer lol. for some reason, it gives me a nonexistent sense of security - but hey, I’ll take any comfort I can get even if it doesn’t make much sense ahaha.

reflection answered, thank you lovely! and I get you, I’m not too fond of heights myself D:

bangtan asks