#the events of singing in sync light up the fire and kick it up a notch are all mentioned!

[pjsk-story-summaries]

Whip the Wimp Girl! Event Story Summary

TL;DR: An's assignment from Ken was to get the rest of the town serious about their next event. Though he was nervous about her now strained relationship with them due to the truth about Nagi, An has already managed to resolve those feelings.

However, a different feeling has been holding her back now- Kohane. Whenever An thinks of Kohane's singing, she feels anxious. She thought she'd gotten over that, though, so she goes to SEKAI to ask Akito and Miku for help. Luka and Toya end up overhearing the conversation and join in, too. Luka suggests actually telling Kohane about her feelings, but An is scared of letting her down.

Time goes on, and An still hasn't done anything to confront her feelings. Toya asks to meet her one evening and explains his former situation with Akito. He had been too scared to tell Akito about his lack of resolve towards surpassing RAD WEEKEND before because he didn't want Akito to think less of him. He feels An might feel the same about Kohane. An realizes the reason she's been hesitating is because she doesn't want Kohane to see this ugly side of her. Later, An thinks about what Nagi would have done in this situation. She decides that Nagi would have battled even harder- which gives her an idea.

An asks Kohane to battle her, and explains how Kohane's rapid growth scares her. She's scared of one day not being someone she looks up to, but knows she has to face these feelings. Kohane's happy she's finally someone An sees as a worthy opponent and agrees to the battle.

Meanwhile, Toya, Akito, and Kotaro enjoy the day off when they hear commotion on the street. The group go and investigate, also inviting EVER to watch. They find a massive crowd watching An and Kohane, who continually trade ever-increasing blows. The two have massive respect for one another, but refuse to lose. On their last song, Kohane surprises everyone with her skill, but An, believing in both herself and the town that grew up with her, gave it everything she had and ultimately won the battle. Moved by An's determination to face her fears, EVER rejoins the group.

Fan translation (lozy bug) / Song (Fire) 2DMV

Chapter 1: Kohane arrives at a street corner An had asked her to come to, though she isn't sure why. In order to complete her assignment, An ask's for Kohane's help- in the form of a battle.

Through a flashback, An's assignment was revealed to be getting the rest of the town serious about the event. RAD WEEKEND wouldn't have been possible without the feelings of everyone in the town; in order to surpass it, they need to rile everyone's belief back up. Ken warns that the town is still caught up on chasing Nagi's shadow and their guilt over lying to An of her death.

The rest of Vivid BAD SQUAD are nervous about this talk going to An since she had taken the news of Nagi's fate hardest, but understand this is something only she can do. An reveals that the crawl green owner, along with the rest of the town, had already apologized to her for the lies. An accepts her assignment with a smile.

Chapter 2: That night, back in her room, An begins planning her approach. She's confident her best song is the one that will convince everyone they will go beyond Nagi's dream. She goes over to Ken to ask for some singing advice. Though Ken was worried about the strained relationship between her and the rest of the town would prove difficult to overcome, watching her practice, he knows it will be alright. While An sings, though, when trying to channel the heat she felt from Nagi, she's reminded of Kohane. Ken stops the performance and asks what's wrong.

Chapter 3: An confides in Ken of her troubled feelings about Kohane. She'd thought she had resolved those feelings before, but the anxiety still lingers within her. Though it had motivated her to grow before, it has now turned into an obstacle.

An meets Akito and Miku in the SEKAI to ask for their help. It's hard, since she knows Kohane won't leave her, but she still feels this way. Luka and Toya ended up overhearing the conversation and stepped in to cut off her self-loathing. Luka points out how cool it is that An cares this much about Kohane. Toya apologized for eavesdropping on accident. An reassures them both and asks for their help, too.

Chapter 4: An recounts her story to the others. Toya is sympathetic, but doesn't understand her anxieties. He believes An is an incredible singer in her own right, standing toe-to-toe with Kohane. Akito agrees. Miku has Toya and Akito explain how they see Kohane as reliable and motivational. An agrees, and explains how she'd always dreamed of having a partner, and how Kohane made that a reality. However, that weight is the source of her anxiety. Luka suggests actually telling Kohane that. An doesn't want to, though, for fear of upsetting her (and a deep feeling of unease over the thought).

Chapter 5: Some time later, Vivid BAD SQUAD reflect on a recent event. Kohane and Toya both notice hesitation in An's demeanor. Even later after that, An and Kohane walk home together after another event. After some light chat, Kohane begins talking about surpassing RAD WEEKEND before she has to split paths. An still can't rid herself of that feeling. She knows she should, but she still can't talk to Kohane about it.

After receiving a message fro him, An meets Toya at a street crossing to talk. Toya shares how An's hesitance to speak to Kohane reminded him of the past, when he tried hiding his true feelings from Akito about his perceived lack of resolve in surpassing RAD WEEKEND. He was scared of letting Akito down, and assumes An feels the same. An knows Kohane looks up to her, but she feels that deep down, she's not someone worthy of that pride. An knows Kohane will accept all the parts of herself, but still is scared to let Kohane see her worst. Toya reassures her that things will be alright in the end- it's how he managed to move forward with Akito. An thanks Toya for the help.

Chapter 6: Later, An wonders how Nagi would have dealt with something like this. She thinks she would have strengthened her resolved and fought back. An gets an idea.

Back in the present, An explains how she was scared by Kohane's rapid growth, that she would one day no longer make her heart race, and that telling her all this would make her disappointment. She had tried to run around the issue, but ultimately decided that if Nagi wouldn't have hid her feelings from her teammates, neither should she. She wants to fight to surpass Kohane. Kohane apologizes, surprising An. However, it's just because she's happy that An finally sees her as a worthy opponent. Kohane agrees to the battle.

A little later, Akito, Toya and Kotaro hang out at Weekend Garage, enjoying the day off. Meanwhile, chatter picks up on Vivid Street about an intense battle. Akito sees EVER among the crowd and chases after them. They had been helping out around the street, but are trapped by the crowd watching An and Kohane's battle. Though Akito and Kotaro are surprised, Toya's proud of An. They all run to watch. Akito asks EVER to come, too.

Chapter 7: The group arrives to find almost the whole town watching the intense battle. It's Kohane's turn first, and An can't help but be reminded of Nagi when she sings. An sings back, and Kohane admires the determination in her song. She wants to sing like An can. Still, she doesn't want to lose, even to her partner, and picks up the pace. An thinks this is the best Kohane has ever sounded, and thanks her for bringing the seriousness she needed. However, if she loses now, she'll keep singing by Kohane's side forever, with that anxiety forever. An ramps it up even more.

Toya asks Tatsuya if he's ever felt fear because of someone's song before, reminding him of the battle with Taiga. Akito explains that this is how An has always felt about Kohane.

An had only noticed that the whole town had come to watch once the song ended. She's reminded of the little her that has always been loved by the street. The partners decide to end the battle after one more song. Kohane starts off with even more than she had before, startling everyone. An knows Kohane is the best partner she could have ever asked for. She dragged everything out of her: the good, the bad, and the ugly. An wants to return the favor now with her own song. An begins singing. The whole town begins cheering her on. She drives herself to put in even more, because she's Shiraishi An- the person who grew up on this street, who was trained by Nagi, who has the whole town behind her, and who has the resolve to surpass it all.

The crowd congratulates the two on the battle, declaring An the winner. Though Kohane's frustrated she lost, that battle made her heart pound more than it ever has before. She asks to battle again sometime in the future. An's happy to have such an incredible partner.

Chapter 8: Even after the battle ended, the whole crowd was fired up. Tatsuya talks about how it felt impossible to move past the battle with Taiga, but always questioned if it was right to just give up. They had all started because they wanted to overcome a dream others said was foolish. EVER was convinced that they would never win. However, after watching An conquer her own fear, they decide to stop running away and rejoin the group.

An announces to the crowd that they will surpass Nagi's dream, and asks them all to follow her there. No matter what the feeling is, they will overcome it, and they will surpass RAD WEEKEND. The owner of crawl green promises they all will see it through to the end, no matter what path An follows.

An thanks Kohane for the battle, to which Kohane returns. They both feel stronger for it. Kohane's sure she'll be able to complete her assignment now. Toya runs up to congratulate An on the win, and Akito reveals EVER is back on board.

[feliannefluff]

Last Song, A FeliAnne fic

Disclaimer: Fire Emblem and characters belong to the original creator

Summary: Becoming separated from the Kingdom's army after a battle during the war, Annette finds herself in dire situation, thinking about the one she loves most. In her final moments, the pure-hearted girl does what she does best.  (Felix x Annette)

After doing literally 6 runs of this game and all routes, I've finally gotten around to writing a fic for my 2nd OTP of the game (the first being Dimileth). Hope ya'll enjoy

This is bad. So bad...I can't believe I really screwed this up.

Annette anxiously thought as she stumbled her way through the dark, unfamiliar woods of the Empire's territory. With each strained step forward, the redhead kicked herself as she lamented the biggest mistake she had ever made since joining the war with her companions.

The surroundings grew cold and damp as rain began falling through the tree tops, causing the ground to become muddy and slippery. Eventually, Annette found she could go no further. Her body was beyond exhaustion and hurt intensely. The female's body collapsed against a nearby tree. Annette slowly slid down into a sitting position and watched as the large drops of rain poured down.

If I hadn't forgotten part of the Professor's plan and followed my unit to the east instead of west, I wouldn't have gotten separated. I really am...such a klutz...

Tears sprung to Annette's eyes as she balled her hand into a fist and shoved it into the dirt. As she did, the beautiful sparkling ring on her finger became coated in mud.

"Oh no...!" She shouted, immediately realizing what she had just done. Annette used her other hand to dig around in her pocket in search of a handkerchief. Pulling out the piece of cloth, the clumsy girl began tentatively rubbing it against the ring's surface.

With only a few seconds, the ring was as good as new, thankfully. Annette breathed a sigh of relief.

Oh, thank the Goddess. Leave it to me to immediately mess up the ring he just gave me...Annette let out a half laugh as she forced a smile, Really, I can't believe myself sometimes.

Annette ran her fingers along the ring's pretty gem that reflected her face in it as she looked at it. Her somewhat pained grin transformed into a happy one as she thought of the man who had given the ring only a month ago. While the two of them had been dating since their reunion at Garreg Mach, the actual proposal had come as a complete shock. Though the happiness she received from it certainly out-wayed the surprise.

Annette shut her eyes and let the memory of that day she received the jewelry play back in her mind.

"Marry me."

Annette dropped the watering can she'd been holding, sending a bunch of water spilling everywhere. In sync with this, the girl's mouth also fell agape while the rest of her face went blank.

"Eh? W-What?" The somewhat air-headed girl found her sight falling down at the box being presented to her by her boyfriend, Felix Hugo Fraldarius. Unable to find the right words to respond with in the moment, Annette simply mumbled nervously, "F-Felix, I d..."

"What, you don't want to? Tch." As usual, Felix's voice was stern and somewhat cold. The heir to the Fraldarius house let out an annoyed sigh before turning away, trying to hide his red face, "Forget I said anything then. See you." Was all the man said as he began to take his leave.

Annette felt her surprise turn into instant panic when she saw him walk away. Without even thinking it through, she quickly grabbed hold of Felix's arm, followed by giving the limb a hard yank. The force pulled Felix back towards Annette, and before the two realized, the couple was on the floor with Felix on top. Both of the Blue Lion member's faces turned redder than Edelgard's armor.

"W-What the hell was that for?!" Felix shouted, feeling far more embarrassed now than a few moments ago.

"Because you were about to leave! I had to stop you!"

"Y-Yeah, I was, because you obviously didn't like the ring, woman!"

Annette shook her head dramatically, "T-That wasn't the reason, Felix! I was just shocked. I mean, who just pulls out a proposal in the middle of tending the greenhouse?"

The tsundere warrior clenched his teeth like that of an angry wolf as his cheeks blushed even brighter, "I knew I shouldn't have listened to that dumbass..."

By 'dumbass', Annette could only surmise that her boyfriend was referring to their house's famous playboy Sylvain Jose Gautier.

The couple removed themselves from the floor and turned away, both of them too flustered to know what to say to the other next. However, the silence only lasted a few minutes before Felix gathered up what little was left of his courage to voice his thoughts,

"Look, I get it, all right. I realize better than anyone that I'm not the best choice for a husband. Hell, even I don't think that role suits a warrior like me." Felix groaned while running fingers through his strewn about bangs, "I mean, before I met you, Annette, I never planned on marrying anyone, even for the sake of continuing my family's line. When I first started at the academy, I only wanted to grow stronger. I had no interest at all of taking a partner or doing the cliche things any son of a noble family has to do. But now, things are...different."

Annette parted her lips to say something but her boyfriend placed his fingertip to her mouth to stop her.

Felix's beautiful red orbs trembled as he let out every honest feeling he had, "We've been going out since basically the Blue Lion's reunion. I just thought, that, given the recent events during this goddess forsaken war...and since I'm the one who will have to carry on my family's house since my idiot of a father's gone...a-and since I..c-care about...you, I figured if I had to take a wife, then..."

Annette felt her heartbeat speed up as she observed the precious sight that was a nervous, stuttering Felix. This moment was just as endearing the last time he'd gone into this state, which was ironically the day he confessed to liking her, which had also taken place in the very same greenhouse they stood in now.

Also just like before, Felix ended up becoming so overloaded with his feelings that he suddenly cut himself out and shouted, "Damn it, just forget it, okay! I don't have a frickin' clue what I'm even saying anymore!"

As the dark-haired man made yet another attempt to flee, Annette responded once more with reaching out to him. However, instead of grabbing his arm, she pulled Felix into the tightest hug her tiny body could manage.

"I'll marry you."

"Huh?" Felix looked down at Annette who was peering up at him like an adorable kitten. The only words the embarrassed man could respond with, were, "...You will?"

"W-Well, I do love you too, so o-of course I will!" Annette lowered her face so that her orange bangs fell over her eyes, "I'm sorry, I never meant to make it seem like I rejected you. I was just so...shocked. I guess I've just been having too much fun lately, with us spending all our free days together that I never imagined anything would change." The sweet-hearted girl closed any remaining distance between the two of them. She then rested her chin onto Felix's shoulder lovingly, "Except, I do have one condition. Is that okay?"

Felix, still at a loss, simply returned the hug and whispered back, "What is it...?"

"The next free day we get, you have to help me with writing my newest song."

Felix's gaze fell into his love's as she flashed him one of her famous angelic smiles. Without even realizing he was doing it, the tsundere responded with his rare kind smirk that he only ever showed her when they were alone, "O-okay, sure. What song will it be this time? More swamp besties, or maybe a sequel to the library piece?"

Annette's smile deepened as her boyfriend continued to excitedly press for details about the song. Though he didn't know it yet, Annette had the most perfect idea for this song than any of her past works. And she knew once it was finished, Felix would be happier than he ever had been listening to the other songs.

Ahh...that's right. We never got to...finish it...

A thick stream of red flowed down Annette's chin as she came back into contact with realty. Slowly, she raised her left hand to admire the ring again. However, this time, the sight of the lovely jewelry was blurred and hard to make out.

Hot tears fell as Annette tried to calm her breathing, feeling a disturbing feeling rise from within her.

"It'll be okay. I may be too weak to use any of my white magic to heal, and I've also run out of all my concoctions the Professor had given me before the battle, but..."

The sight of Felix's handsome features flashed through Annette's mind in time with a bit of lightning that struck near where she rested. The loud sound of thunder crackling was drowned out in Annette's mind by her love's voice repeating things he'd said to her over their time together,

"You have nice footwork."

"I can't forget. It's permanently etched into my memory."

"If you blow up the library, where will we put the books?"

"You shouldn't dance up there, you could fall."

"What, you're not going to sing anymore?"

"It's like I'm your captive. I hear you sing whenever I'm asleep, or on the battlefield..."

"Sing for me, please Annette?"

The light in Annette's eyes soon became as gray as the sky overhead as she listened to her memories carefully. With each second, she could feel her consciousness begin to fade. So an idea came to mind.

Using the last bit of energy remaining within her, Annette pulled out her magic grimoire and cast a spell she had recently learned in secret back in the Garreg Mach library. Though it was her first time really using the spell, she was sure it would work. After mumbling an incantation, a clear orb of light appeared in midair. Annette stared into the orb, watching her reflection in the orb's clear surface.

He never...got to hear the finished version...and knowing Felix, I'm sure he'll be super angry if he doesn't get to listen to it just once.

Despite the fact that Annette's body had lost all feeling and ability to move now, she pushed herself with everything she had to flash one goofy grin at the orb. Her blood-stained lips then parted as she began to sing.

"Hey, you hear something?"

Two Imperial soldiers walked along the woods, set on the task to find any remaining enemies still sneaking around.

"No, do you?" The second Imp asked his comrade who seemed to be looking off in a specific direction.

"Call me crazy, but I swear I hear a girl singing. It's coming from over here..."

The two followed the sound until, just as the first soldier had stated- a girl came into sight before them. Her voice was hoarse and weak. The singing had gotten much quieter too in the short time it had taken the Imps to discover her. The men approached the tree, both drawing their swords as they did so. The singing immediately stopped as the dying woman looked up at them with eyes as dead as a fish's.

"Tch, this bitch is totally finished. Just look at that disgusting face over hers."

"She's probably a stray from that damned Kingdom army. Just finish her and we can go back home."

The first soldier leered down at her as he raised his sword. Weapon ready to strike its final blow, the man asked the girl, "Any last words, you brat?"

She watched both men for a minute, her expression still and unshaken. For a moment, the soldiers wondered if she'd already bit the dust. However, without warning, a weak smile found itself across the girl's face. A shaking arm covered in bruises and crimson reached out to one of the men.

The Imps just exchanged looks and shook their heads in disgust. His patience completely gone by this point, the soldier brought down his sword. As he did, the girl's voice could just barely be heard as the steel of the weapon slashed through her flesh.

"Well...did you like the song...Felix...?"

The sound of her body falling into the mud was drowned out as the rain pounded down harder than it had. The only thing that could be heard after was the sound of two cackling males.

"Felix, slow down! If you keep charging through enemy territory like this, we'll get sniped before we can ever find her!"

"Shut the hell up, Sylvain! Finding her is more important than anything else right now!"

The two distressed childhood friends rode through the last place their fellow comrades had seen Annette before she'd gotten separated from the army.

"J-Just calm down, man! It's bad enough you cursed his Highness and Teach out before stealing one of the army's horses and..."

"I SAID TO SHUT UP!"

Sylvain had basically lived his entire life being screamed at by Felix. Their entire relationship really was just 99% of the grouchy male shouting at the playboy. However, the way Felix had shrieked at him just now was unlike any of the other times. Felix's voice was beyond cracking, almost as if he were choking back the urge to cry from the fear he was currently experiencing.

From the moment Byleth had informed their class of Annette's missing whereabouts, Felix had become an entirely different person. Honestly, his disposition was reminiscent of Dimitri's wild behavior from a month prior.

Deciding to remain quiet, the son of the Gautier house continued riding behind Felix. It didn't take long before they finally reached the place they had set out for. Though what they discovered there, was far from anything the two had hoped for.

"Oh shit..." Sylvain choked out as he and Felix dismounted their horses.

Felix's face that had been full of panic and anger a moment ago was now overtaken with a mix of horror and sorrow as he took in the disturbing sight by a tree in the forest's center.

"Ah..." Felix stumbled through a mix of dirt and blood on the ground over to a figure lying motionless on the ground. With each inch closer the usually stoic man got to the scene, his heart clenched painfully. Eventually, Felix made it over so he could get a clear view of the sight. For a moment, he just stood still. Looking down at the body, he noticed a bloody ring shimmering up at him.

Sylvain swallowed hard while he waited Felix to voice their worst fears. However, when Felix stood motionless for a solid two minutes, the redhead became concerned and tried to call out to his best friend. As Felix's name left Sylvain's mouth, another bolt of lightning flashed- lighting up every part of the dark scenery around them. Time itself seemed to come to a stop for only a second. In the lit up area, Sylvain felt his breath leave him when his eyes caught sight of Annette laying there at Felix's feet, her face lifeless as could be. As the lightning finished striking, Felix fell to his knees. As he did, the tie holding his long hair back snapped. Black locks flew around and then coated over Felix's face. His mind shutting down, Felix's body began moving on its arms took hold of Annette's breathless body. Holding her close, Felix ran fingers along his fiance's ice cold cheeks. He pushed some straying hairs out of her still opened eyes as his hallow ones stared down at her.

"...Sorry...for being late..." Felix's voice was disturbingly calm as he spoke. His head fell against Annette's own, "I've been late the last several times during our cleaning duties lately too...you'll have to scold me later, won't you..." Though his eyes held no emotion in them anymore, beads of water formed in their corners, "...Annette..."

Sylvain turned away from the scene, partially to give his best friend some privacy but also because his own heart could barely take this scene.

"Why the hell did this have to happen to her of all people...Damn the Empire..." Slyvain shut his eyes painfully as he lamented everything about this situation. Of all the horrors their class had witnessed in this awful war, this was by far the worst. After some time, the rain finally let up. Noticing the change, Sylvain decided the next course of action they should take. He slowly made his way over to Felix who was still holding Annette in silence.

Placing a hand onto Felix's shoulder, Sylvain spoke, "Hey, Felix...I think we should start heading ba-" But the red haired male was cut off mid-sentence when the corner of his eye caught something odd shining from the ground nearby. Walking over to it, he picked up what appeared to be a sphere of some sort.

"What the hell is this...? An enemy's weapon they dropped, or...?" In an attempt to discover what the item was, Slyvain began messing around with the orb in hand. After pressing a finger to a certain spot, the orb suddenly glowed more brightly. A moment later, Annette's smiling face could be seen mirrored in the sphere's center.

"F-Felix, look!"

Hesitant to listen to anything at this point, said male reluctantly looked back. His red eyes widened greatly when he spotted the face of his love reflecting from the sphere in his friend's hand.

"What..."

Before the two men could say anything else, Annette's voice echoed from the object and her face began moving as if she were still alive before them,

"Hi, Felix. If you're watching this, than, uh...I may...already be gone. I'm casting a special spell so I can make sure I show you something special, just in case...you don't...make it here in ti-"

The sphere showed Annette hacking up blood before she continued. Both Felix and Sylvain watched in agony as the recording continued.

"S-Sorry about that! You know me, Felix, I'm such a klutz. I kinda...got into some trouble after getting separated from the others, so please don't mind my, ...appearance, okay? Hee hee."

Felix's vision blurred intensely as he kept watching the last moments of Annette from the sphere.

Anyway, I didn't ever get to show you the finished song. You know, the one we came up with together. I made some changes to it without telling you, and I wanted you to hear it. I think you'll really like this one. Be sure to let me know what you think, okay? Remember Felix, I won't forgive you if you don't tell me how you feel about it afterwards! Oh, and..." Annette paused before bringing up her hands in an apology gesture, "I never made a dance to go along with this one. Sorry about that...I know how much you loved my footwork after all. But to make up for the lack of dance, I-I put in extra love! Oh, geez, that actually sounded way less cheesy in my head...Uh, anyways...here it goes. I hope you enjoy it, Felix!"

Annette's face brightened as her took in a deep breath. A second later, her beautiful singing sounded out.

The song was unlike anything Felix had ever heard from her. It was as cutesy and happy as any of her others, but the her voice went to a different level when it sung this number. The lyrics spoke of her feelings for him and the future she was excited to share with Felix once the war was finally over. Though the song only lasted a moment before the recording finally cut out, the music touched to his very core. Unable to hold himself back any longer, Felix dropped to the ground again and took hold of Annette's body. As the lyrics of her song ran through his mind, the sound of his pained sobs drowned out everything else. Meanwhile, Sylvain walked back over to the horses and turned his eyes towards the sky. How cruel and how ironic the sky looked overhead. It had been pouring since the moment the battle against the Empire started but now it was free of clouds and showing the first sight of the sun peering down at them.

...That sky...it's a lot like Annette herself. Bright and free of any dark at all. I wonder if she's watching us from up there with the Goddess...

Sylvain buried his head against the neck of his horse as he too let his emotions overcome him.

Meanwhile, Felix still clung to Annette. As he did, his low voice could be heard singing back the song Annette had performed in the magic sphere.

As the song repeated over and over, the ring on Felix's finger clenched against Annette's.

By a strange turn of fate, two very different people met at the Officer's Academy five years ago. The two were polar opposites in near every way but despite this, the two found joy in each other's company. Though their future together had been ripped away, the Blue Lions would never forget the love that had been shared between their powerful warrior and pure angel.

Author's Comments: Let me just say one thing...I apologize for the abrupt end of this. I do think I wanna write one more chapter to this but my brain just gave out at the end here and I couldn't think of any more so I'm very sorry *bows*

I also apologize for not actually writing out Annette's song. I so very wanted to but Annette has such a unique song style and I can't write songs for crap any ways. Though if any one is willing to come up with one, I'll be more than happy to include and credit you in the next chapter.

I bet you guys are wondering just how TF I'm gonna write another chapter after this major angst, so I'll give you a hint: Byleth's powers. That's all I'm gonna say.

Anyways, thanks so much for reading. Please, please, PLEASE leave a review if you enjoyed and what you hope to see in the next chapter. Feedback is very appreciated

[thatcrazybookwormgeek]

Can I Be Him?

A sequel to Empty Space.

A/N: School has been kicking my butt lately, so this took longer than I had hoped. Hopefully, I can get my homework done so I can actually write. As for the anon who requested a Loki x Reader songfic with Photograph by Ed Sheeran, it’s coming, I promise. 

Pairing: Loki x Reader

MASTERLIST IS IN MY BIO

THIS IS A SEQUEL, PART 1 CAN BE FOUND IN MY MASTERLIST, IT’S CALLED EMPTY SPACE

LET ME KNOW IF YOU WANT TO BE TAGGED!

Sorry for the Caps Lock, I wanted it to be read. :)

LOKI POV

  It had been two months since we had broken up, but I still missed her with every fiber of my being. I think it might hurt worse than the beginning. This would have been our two-year anniversary today. But all I have now is soaked tissues and puffy eyes. Not that anyone would ever know.

  A knock resounded through my room, accompanied by a voice, “Hey Reindeer Games! We’re going out and you’re coming with us.”  

  “Not today Tony, I don’t feel good.” I tried my best to steady my voice as I called back to him.

  “Yeah, that’s why we’re going out?” Tony called out exasperated sarcasm.

  Seeing as how Stark was as likely to leave it as a bilgesnipe was to be a pet, I decided to simply ignore him as I got ready to leave. Not that it took much, all it took was a simple illusion. I mean, who would ever think the God of Mischief would go out in his pajamas. Y/N, that’s who. She always could see through my illusions. Must have been another one of her superpowers.

  “Alright Stark, lead the way,” I said as I opened the door.

  The place we went to was none other than a bar, not that I was really expecting anything else from Tony. At least this one was a little more upscale than the one we went to last month. They announced that they were holding a karaoke contest in an hour, and anyone who wished to compete should sign up. I paid this no mind though, as singing in front of pathetic mortals wasn’t exactly my cup of tea.

  The next hour and a half passed by with terrible off-key singing and alcohol. My eardrums were practically bleeding, and I was about to just up and leave. This was as far from fun as “Get Help.” But right as I thought that, an announcement was made that Pheonix would be performing soon. Curiosity got the best of me and I began to pay attention.

  The lights dimmed so that only shadows could be seen on stage, making it nearly impossible to see what was going on. But I could tell that someone walked on stage in an outfit that resembled Y/N’s tactical suit. A slow thumping beat began to play, with a harmonic melody joining it soon after.

  “I used to think,

I hated you.

But maybe love’s

A better word.

For all the time,

You and I,

Spend side by side.

For all the heartbeats,

Synced by time.

The love we share,

You and I.

  A rose-tinted spotlight shone upon her, lighting up the fact that it was indeed Y/N. She was dressed in her Pheonix tactical suit, modeled after Natasha’s but with accents of fire. But the accents weren’t the only bit of fire on her, though. Her hands began to light up as she sang.

“I was the fire to your ice

And together,

we were nature’s worst enemy.

We ruled the world and realms beyond

We fought side by side until tonight.

Now I’m just a lonely fire,

Burning in the night.

Burnin in the night.”

  As the song came to a close she ignited her entire body, and then dimmed down until there was a single spark left on her finger. She gave a smile and left the stage, heading to the bar for a drink.

Y/N POV

  “Great job up there Y/N! You turned quite a few eyes.” Wanda’s accented voice said as she gave me a drink.

  I smiled with the compliment, my heart happy to hear it. “Thanks, I worked hard on that one.”

  “That one? So we might get an encore?” Tony asked as he slid his way into the seat next to me.

  “TONY!!!” I screamed as I jumped up to hug him.

  “Hey, kiddo. That was a good job, and lucky for you, I’m not the only one who heard it.” He said.

  “Really? Who else is here?” I asked as I took a drink.

  “Just Sam, Steve, Bucky, Loki, Thor, and Clint,” Tony said dismissively.

  I spit out my drink at hearing that my ex was here, “LOKI?!”

  “Yeah, loverboy seemed to really enjoy the show. You might want to talk to him.” With that, Tony took his drink and went back to where the guys were.

  “Hey Y/N, what’s wrong?” Wanda asked as she came back from the restroom.

  “I want to go home,” I said with an expression like glass, put together yet could break at any moment.

  “What? Why? You killed it.” She asked, confusion written all over her face.

  “It’s not that, he’s here,” I answered her, staring at my drink, afraid I would fall apart.

  “Who’s here? There’s a lot of people here you’re going to have to be more descriptive.”

  “You know, him.” She still looked confused so I elaborated with a sigh, “Loki.”

  “Loki’s here? Where?” I pointed in his direction and continued to stare seldom at my drink.

  Wanda left to go look in the direction I had pointed. I turned back to my drink and tried to tune out every backstabbing thought that plagued my mind. Every possible thing he could say, made worse by the tender look on his stupidly handsome face.

 “I think you pointed in the wrong direction beautiful.” A voice I would know anywhere called from my other side.

  “Just go away, I don’t exactly feel like fighting again.” My voice cracked as the walls I built began to crumble.

  “Why would I fight with you?” He asked, his voice cracking as well.

  “Because you and I don’t see eye to eye. We’re like fire and ice.” I finally looked up at him and saw the breakup had taken its toll on both of us. His eyes were bloodshot and puffy, they lacked there usual mischevious glimmer. His smirk was forced, looking almost painful.

  “Well, I guess opposites really do attract. What was that song you were singing?” He asked with the glimmer of a smile on his face.

  “It’s called Fire and Ice. I wrote it.” I answered with pride.

  “It was beautiful. Like you.” With that he walked away, leaving an emptiness in his place.

  It was so like him, to say something so kind, and then walk away like nothing ever happened. With pain in every crack of my heart, I called a car and went back to the compound. As I laid in bed and thought about the events of the night, I realized what I had to do.

  “Director Fury, its Y/N. I’ll take the mission.” With a click of the call ending, I finally felt a peace in my soul.

[thebandcampdiaries]

Brian Lee Bender - “I’m Here To Party With You”

A diverse album featuring many influences, converging together into something special.

Review Summary: Brian Lee Bender released a new album called “I’m Here To Party With You.” This record features 13 tracks, exploring various influences, as well as channeling the best of pop, country, and rock!

Brian Lee Bender is a singer and songwriter hailing from Sacramento, California.

His style is very diverse, channeling a wide variety of genres. From classic rock to modern pop and country, anything goes! His most recent full-length album release is a project titled “I’m Here To Party With You.”

This beautifully diverse album features 13 studio tracks, highlighting Brian’s versatility as an artist and next-level compositional style. Keep reading to get deeper as we explore each and every track!

1) I’m Here To Party With You

The album’s title track is just as bright and uplifting as its name would have you believe. The release kicks off with a quintessential feel-good track, which really encapsulates Brian’s ability to write engaging, light-hearted songs that will make you smile.

2) Better Days

Better Days kicks in with a fantastic electric guitar riff, and with a beautiful balance of instrumental detail and amazing lyrics. The song of this track makes me think of artists like Keith Urban or Brad Paisley, but with a grittier, more down-to-earth approach, which lends this song even more authenticity. The Banjo licks in the choruses really make the song, adding it a unique vibe.

3) Change Me

This mellow ballad has a dreamy, floating texture, made even more special with the clever use of romantic slide guitar lines. I love how the drumming is so dynamic, allowing the acoustic guitar and vocals to take the main place under the spotlight during the verses, but yet creating some additional energy as the refrains unfold.

4) We Go Back

This is a fun song with a playful vibe and a very groovy arrangement. I love how the verses take a backseat, making for a slower, more mellow tone. This creates a unique contrast with the choruses, which embrace a more upbeat and melodic style. This is a bittersweet song with a nostalgic feel and a really memorable set of great melodies.

5) Around The Bend

This beautiful 3/4 track is halfway between a folk ballad and a country-rock song. I love the powerful rhythm section, and the amazing vocal harmonies, which make the song stand out.

6) Touched By The Music

This might be one of my favorite numbers on this release! I love the rhythm and the vintage vibe of this track, which makes me think of classic 60s country music, yet with a very modern and clear production vibe. The verses are more introspective and constrained, while the choruses take it up a notch with some great drumming and vocal harmonies.

7) Country Is My Bible

“Country Is My Bible” has a traditional sound, with some beautiful honky-tonk piano and an amazing duet on the vocals, with Brian taking on a lead role, and some female vocal harmonies in the background to highlight some of the melodies. This track is almost a gospel tune, with lyrics that are very powerful and emphatic.

8) One Big Song Away

This single might be the most hard-hitting track on the album, in terms of energy. The drum and bass keep up a steady pace, and the guitar riffage is pure rock and roll. This song is powerful, yet not overly aggressive, channeling the dirt of rock music, but also retaining the elegant, smooth sound of this release.

9) This Song

On “This Song,” acoustic guitars are king. I love the simplicity of the melody and the fact that this song is perfectly timed on the album’s setlist, letting the record breathe with a more intimate track.

The slide guitar tones are absolutely beautiful, creating a dreamy soundscape in the background, accompanying the main vocal melodies.

10) Freedom USA

This song combines a cool southern rock flair with a playful country stomp. What makes the song even more special is the concept. Brian is a witty lyricist, who uses his sense of humor and ability to relate to people to explore deeper topics with a strong social value. However, he never sounds preachy or condescending. The beauty of this song is that it arguably comes from a very personal place.

11) Thank You For My Life

This is a stunning slow-paced ballad with a 3/4 tempo and a very romantic atmosphere, almost like a track you’d expect to hear at a school dance many years ago! I love the hopeful, melodic punch of the choruses and the overall charming vibe of this song.

12) Sunshine

“Sunshine” has a positive, happy-go-lucky vibe, with stronger pop influences. This song goes back full circle, bringing the album to the vibes that fueled its beginning. This song is a catchy, happy, bright, track with a massive appeal!

13) A Real Man

Last, but most definitely not least, “A Real Man,” is the quintessential country rock number, exuding with confidence and energy. The rhythm section is rock-solid, and so are the guitar riffs and lead vocals, showcasing Brian’s grit and range.

Ultimately, this is a very enjoyable album, which will have you rapt from start to finish. Each track has something special to offer, yet the set list is remarkably consistent and fun to listen to.

Find out more about Brian Lee Bender, and do not miss out on his music, releases, and activities. “I’m Here To Party With You” is currently available on Spotify, where you can stream the album in its entirety.

https://open.spotify.com/album/0I0FGsoIVQHnVy4Pj3M7JO

We also had the opportunity to ask Brian a few questions: keep reading to check out our full interview with him!

I love how you manage to render your tracks so personal and organic. Does the melody come first, or do you focus on the beat the most?

For a long time, my writing started with the discovery of cool guitar chords and progressions and then finding melody and words that fit. But lately, I have been just using my pc and a stage keyboard, no guitar at all and singing lyrics and melody with the record button on. I just loop it around until I have something I like. Once I get the foundation of the track, I work to make it story like, a journey of some kind that keeps the listener’s attention.

Do you perform live? If so, do you feel more comfortable on a stage or within the walls of the recording studio?

Live music and recorded sound are two different presentations and I love them both. Each has something to offer the other does not. Recorded music is your best edit and presentation that you could design and implement. With Live music, it will never be the same twice, it’s a huge rush or sometimes major challenge to get all of the stars to line up and have your song come together. But with live music, you have instant feedback and like a DJ you can read the crowd and follow the moment. Recorded music is an on-demand experience where the listener can push the play button and get the same piece of art, every time, anywhere in the world. Whereas the live experience is like, everything you know and feel about music gets crushed into your performance, and like an athlete, you always need to be working on your game. At that moment you live and die by your ability to reach peak performance. Preparing yourself for a live performance yields huge dividends in the many skills required to be effective on stage. Having the reality of listening to your designs on record and then getting instant feedback from fans on stage, those two things working together are what allows an artist to be relatable and grow into their shoes, create a sound all their own. So the long answer is, they are equally important to me as an artist.

If you could only pick one song to make a “first impression” on a new listener, which song would you pick and why?

This is a hard one, because I know everybody likes something different and of course I want to offer something to anybody who needs music in their life!

But, “Touched By The Music” is really my most definitive piece, in terms of the soundscape used, it's current but nostalgic, it’s got big drums, and it flows nicely as a production. Most importantly, it kind of sums up the value of music in my life and hopefully in the lives of many others. I see so many people, cruising around, at the gym, headphones in place, dialing up their “favorite song” that takes them somewhere they need to go in that moment. Music is a helper and friend and for me, it’s a universal source of energy. Like life’s metronome that we sync to. It keeps us going forward to the next measure, moment, day, month. I personally have a hard time without music in my daily life, so it's my heartbeat that I follow.

What does it take to be “innovative” in music?

Being curious about the mystery of it. Realizing, that you should measure yourself against what you think is great, and do what you can to find your own personal greatness. That means making progress so you can relieve your inner nag, that means never quitting unless you are otherwise suffering in life. Whatever, stage you are in, as a creator, you should always be just looking right near you for inspiration and stories you can tell. There really aren’t’ any new stories, just new storytellers, speaking the language of our time. For you to be effective, you need to speak the language of your listeners. So staying up with news, events, trends, having lots of experiences to write about and contemplate in a song, is vital. Many of my songs are just me writing to myself, to get me fired up, force me to be optimistic, happy, emotionally done with something or somebody. As we grow in our life experiences, we turn the page and have new chapters that we can write about. Life is a play and we are all in it. Learn or write your script, find your place on stage and give your best performance.

Any upcoming release or tour your way?

In the new world, I have managed to become vertically integrated, meaning I can write something in a day and drop it on the world the very same day if I wanted and I am getting used to this type of freedom and how to best take advantage of it. The old way is not really relevant anymore. Printing a physical CD seems pointless, people ask, “this is great, how do I get it on my phone”? They might also say, I can’t find your video on youtube? Meaning a song by itself is no longer the medium of modern music. As far as releases, I have many unpublished items and I am working daily on selecting pieces that might be of interest to others.

As for live music, I am spoiled and pragmatic about the lifestyle of “living on the road”. I have done it and I have seen the collateral damage, the price, for “living the dream” at the expense of real family relationships, a real partnership, a stable home where you have a foundation to work from. So now, for live music, I play at a reasonable interval, 2-4 times a month depending on the season, which allows time to record in Nashville or just travel a bit. We play to a wine, beer, food demographic that enjoys listening to live music. My partner and I play as an acoustic-electric duo. This gives me a platform to try out new sounds and songs on a regular basis. We never play the same sets every night. I can play songs in any order or go anywhere we need to, like a DJ, to follow the moment and entertain people.

As for my project studio, this is where I do a lot of R and D, writing, recording, rehearse and prep for shows. Over the years, I have learned to play every instrument, record, mix, master and produce my music. It’s all there, every day for me to explore and create, just 20 seconds away from my backdoor.

Anywhere online where curious fans can listen to your music and find out more about you?

I have tried to create a user-friendly “experience” on my website, that allows efficient self-navigation to grab all the relevant info, stay a while if you have the time and listen to music, watch videos, read my story in a pictorial fashion.

By design, I hope you can get right to what you are looking for, no sales pitch, just the music that should be the most important thing we have between us.

Learning new music can take a little repetition from the listener. Do me a favor and spin my latest album on Spotify, Apple or Amazon or your service of choice.

Just play it once and then once again another time. This is how we expand our musical experience. You allow yourself to receive it, take it in, learn it and become part of the music. It’s really meant for all. Invest a tiny bit of your time and I trust you find something of value that makes it worth it.

You can explore at https://www.brianleebender.com

Thank you for getting this far, I appreciate anyone who has taken the time to consider my work. My highest honor is sharing the magic of music. Cheers

[page-of-tales]

Story: Faith in Humanity III

Word Count: 1800

---

Censorship reflects society's lack of confidence in itself

-Potter Stewart

---

Senior Agent Barann watched as his communicator buzzed on his desk. The calls were becoming endless. High level officials continually asking for updates or input on policy. Colleagues badgering him for advice or help. All noise in the background to current events. In the month since interstellar communications with all aliens had been cut. things had spiralled out of control. It wasn’t the economical impact, that consequence had been accounted for, and in fact hadn’t been as severe as analysts feared. No, it wasn’t the corporations who were causing trouble. It was the common people. Their interest in humans had spiked just before the communications blackout. There had even been small gatherings of citizens to protest the deportation of all humans residing in Ergotoid space. Those initial warning signs were all they had of what was to come.

The Bureau of Surveillance had reported a rise in subversive acts since the blackout. Citations for illegal possession of alien contraband. Indicative of a thriving black market for alien products. An increase in unregulated media stations had been evading the Bureau of Communications. Spouting radical agendas inspired by whatever alien influence had corrupted their minds. The Bureau of Propaganda was hard pressed in a campaign promoting the superiority of the Ergotoids. Political action was on the rise, protests, dissidence, and all other treasonous activity was beginning to disrupt the peace.

The authority was becoming increasingly nervous about this sway in public opinion. Recent decrees illustrated the drastic measures they felt had become a necessity. Quotes, song lyrics, and references of alien culture would be punished severely. If necessary the police would beat it out of the populace. Crackdowns on illicit activities were becoming increasingly harsh. The automatic censors caught most of the visceral imagery from those raids before it spread. Illegal distribution would be punishable by death, without trial. Yet even with all these measures, massive amounts of net contraband were being seized and discovered online daily. Physical backups were dumping their contents onto the net making censoring less effective. The viral videos continued to be the primary source of this unrest. Emulations being the most visible element of this illegal contact.

The Bureau of Alien Contact had been compiling a report to present to the top levels of government regarding this precarious situation. His department was compiling a video, ironically a version of the Faith in Humanity format. The purpose of which was to exemplify the subversive elements contained within the messaging of such videos, messaging which had struck an affinity with the Ergotoids. A message which sparked the ongoing cultural wave of rebellion.

A pink finger scrubs the lens before allowing the camera to adjust to the lighting of the scene. As the light flares and recovers an outdoor scene comes into sight. The ground covered in a white material that falls from the clouded sky. A number of humans dressed in bulky clothes stride about. Condensation from their breath indicative of a cold temperature. A group of humans are meandering in a field. Rolling the white material into waist high spheres. These spheres are piled together forming a mound a half length taller than the humans. The group set to shearing away layers of the mound with their hands. When the group steps back, an imperfect cube of white material is left behind.

The group gather round in a circle around the work. They sway in unison, arms over each other’s shoulder. The camera approaches and the wavering pattern of a song can be heard.

♩  “We wish you a Merry Christmas-” ���

As the song continues other humans approach from across the field. Joining the circle they also join in the song. As the song ends the group launches into another.

♪ “Dreydle, Dreydle, Dreydle.” ♪

More humans join, forming two encircling loops. More snow is piled to form a low wall around the cube. Another pile of snow is formed and from this one a pyramid is carved out. And as more humans join the group, another sculpture is created. The footage begins to cut to different perspectives. Jumping across the field to capture all that is happening. A lighthearted mood kicks up with an impromptu snowball fight briefly disrupting the singing. Piles of snow are made into impromptu benches. At some point a food stand stops by and a line of people form for food. A second soon joins it. As the light begins to fade, the crowd only grows larger. Glow orbs hover above to light the festivities. Someone stuffs lights into the sculptures, the muted lighting reflecting off happy faces. All throughout the singing continues. Different songs in different tongues of an ever changing cast of singers.

As rapidly as it grew the spontaneous party vanished. The field going dark and quiet as the last revelers left. The flash event gone as rapidly as it had appeared.

The footage vibrates from atop a vehicle. A gun mounted camera, the long barrel of the weapon protruding into the view. As the gun rotates in its top turret a convoy of military vehicles are seen following closely behind. A stamp in the upper corner marks the military unit as Jik’an military, Imperial Executors some cycles ago. Abruptly the vehicle comes to a stop. The gun rotates to face forward. A line of humans stand in the road, a human wall.

A speaker on the vehicle crackles to life.

“Humans, disperse immediately.”

The humans remain.

“You are obstructing an active military operation. By Codex Line 23, obstruction of military operations is punishable by imprisonment or death. Disperse immediately.”

One human steps up. A second speaker booming at the convoy.

“Turn back. There is no need for violence. Leave the Lassarn alone. Go home.”

The vehicle speaker booms louder.

“Sheltering of rebels is an illegal act. This assembly is an illegal act. Disperse or be shot.”

A few individuals jump out of line, but the line remains.

“This is our right, and our homes. You do not belong here.”

The people begin to yell in chorus. Demanding the military leave. The gun levels out. Then the camera cuts to black as the gun opens fire.

A camera sweeps across a devastated landscape. Alien natives stumble through the bombed landscape. Rubble blocks the street. Smoke rises high on the horizon. Electricity is knocked out as evidenced by the darkened buildings. The surroundings lit by only the dim light of the sun filtering through a heavy cloud layer. Shocked and stunned individuals sit in silent contemplation. Whatever had attacked these people had left as quickly as it had come, leaving behind a devastated city. The camera sweeps up as a low rumble can be heard. Aliens scatter as a shape begins to descend through the clouds.

The footage cuts to the interior of a vehicle. Racing out of the city to a nearby field. The camera struggles to keep the descending shape of a spaceship in view as the vehicle bounces on the ruined road. The blackened and scorched fields giving a clear view of the descending ship. Massive in size, and gleaming with the emblem of the Federation.

The alien is not alone, a few others have driven out to the field and watch the ship as it finally touches down. Gusts of wind beat at their faces, covering them in ash. But they remain fixated on the ship. A ramp begins to descend. As it touched ground people begin to disembark. Like a showcase of the diversity of the Federation, a full spectrum of member species descend from the ship. Stygil hopping awkwardly down the sloped ramp. Lalochans seeming to float down the ramp. A troop of Anthdae moving in sync. Komus, large enough that they disembark individually. A dozen more unidentifiable species. And all throughout Humans intermingled in the crowd.

The mercy ship begins to unload supplies as well. Drones roll off the ramp loaded with crates. Vehicles are lowered from bays to roll away and make contact with the impacted area. From a hangar lifts several aircraft fly out. Shooting high and disappearing above the clouds. Back on the ground the group split into teams and begin setting up a base facility.

A human bounds over to them. Brushing at the ash that lingers in the air. He stops in front of the aliens, and reaches a hand out.

“Hello, we are here to help.”     

An alien hand extends in response before the footage cuts out.

Unknown Station: Black Box Footage- Hangar B

Grainy footage. Lines of static crawl up the frame. A large room is depicted in low light. A hangar on a space station judging by the fielded wall on the far side exposed to space. Within the hangar there are lines of species in chains. Many more in enclosures. Green skinned quadrupeds walk about controlling the other species with neural prods. Ethyl slavers. The camera has a poor audio receiver and the screams of the slaves are distorted. An untranslated alien voice rasps in the hangar. The slavers begin to prod the chained slaves more vigorously. Corralling them into the enclosures. Others prepare to receive another shipment.

Through the field a large ship enters the hangar. It turns and lands in front of the slavers. The bay doors open and from the ship’s hold storm out a band of humans. The slavers closest to the ship are dropped quickly by weapons fire. The others barely have time to react before the humans are also upon them. As more humans pop out of hatches atop the ship it is apparent they are not a professional bunch. Their dress bearing colonial markings. Their weapons a varied arsenal of scavenged gear. But they throw themselves relentlessly at the slavers who fall back from the hangar.

The humans rally, gathering together. “For Freedom.” They proclaim as one and then they push forward. Chains are broken, and the lines of slaves freed. Any slaver left behind is executed. Reaching the end of the hangar the humans continue to blast their way into the station. Finally the camera is taken out by an explosion.

Barann looked away from the monitor and considered the form in his hands. His resignation. This entire event was his failure, and it was time for him to bear responsibility. He planned to present his resignation after the presentation. He didn’t plan to stick around to see where his failures would lead. Unlike the others he had an inside view into what was going on, had felt the emotions that would drive other Ergotoids to rebel. Witnessed the inspiring actions of ordinary people change those who bore witness. What had been an intrusive influence had now become an unstoppable force of society.

[gettingstraighttothepoint]

A first concert experience: BTS World Tour Love Yourself: Speak Yourself in London (1st June 2019)

BTS kicked off the European leg of their world tour Love Yourself: Speak Yourself on Saturday 1st June, 2019 at the world-renowned Wembley Stadium in London, UK. Mainly used to hold football games, the stadium has also been a venue for music concerts where artists such as Madonna, Beyoncé, Coldplay and Taylor Swift to name a few have performed. Hailing from South Korea, the 7-member K-pop group came to the UK for the first time in October last year where they performed two sold out shows to 40,000 fans at the O2 arena. This year, they upgraded and decided to put on two shows at Wembley Stadium where they performed in front of 120,000 fans. Tickets went on sale back in early March and all tickets sold out in 90 minutes.

Performing on a T-shaped stage, BTS utilised all the space on the stage to put on show-stopping performances. They made sure that their fans called ARMY had a great time by moving to all areas of the stage in order to engage and interact with them. Given that their world tour is titled Love Yourself: Speak Yourself, their set list included songs from their most recent album Map of the Soul: Persona which was released in April this year and a mixture of songs from their Love Yourself series. They began the show with ‘Dionysus’ which immediately got the crowd hyped up. Following ‘Dionysus’, they performed an array of hits such as ‘IDOL’, ‘Fake Love’, ‘Boy With Luv’ and other much-loved songs from their albums which haven’t been heavily promoted.

Their use of props, VCRs and army of dancers for their performances was truly jaw-dropping. Each member got a chance to shine through their solo stages; Jimin burst his bubble (literally), RM controlled visual hand-written messages, SUGA had benches to imitate a seesaw, J-Hope had elevating podiums, Jin elegantly played a piano, V lied seductively on a bed and then woke up to dance along with dancers and Jungkook, hooked onto a wire, began flying around the stadium to get closer but still out of reach to screaming fans. Their back-up dancers intensified their dances and made their performances look visually stunning. In addition, there were fireworks, water cannons fired at fans closest to the stage, blasts of confetti which filled the air and inflatables for the group to play around on. ARMYs were also able to sync their ARMY bomb light sticks with the music and throughout the show, the light sticks changed colour and made various patterns.

BTS as artists have always been conscious of the music they release but they also take into consideration the outfits for their performances. Dressed in extravagant and elegant white pieces for ‘Dionysus’ to all pink for ‘Best of Me’ to a military look for ‘Mic Drop’, the amount of outfit changes in between their stages seemed infinite. BTS are versatile when it comes to trying different styles and their outfits were in line with the latest fashion trends such as the utility/military look and tie-dye. It is also worth mentioning that Dior’s menswear artistic director Kim Jones designed the custom-made outfits used for their ‘Outro: Tear’ and ‘Mic Drop’ stages which included a variety of bomber jackets, cargo pants, harnesses, shirts, boots and bags.

With their rising success, BTS continue to match this by performing at bigger concert venues than before and putting on unforgettable performances as each concert seems to trump the last. In between performances, they had short breaks where they talked to fans and expressed their gratitude and love. However, all was not serious as there were a few instances where the group liked to play around – cue RM’s attempt at a British accent and Jungkook picking up English slang (”easy peasy lemon squeezy”) which of course, sent the crowd in a frenzy. Jin experienced the famous Freddie Mercury scene from Bohemian Rhapsody when he shouted “AY-YO” to which the crowd replied back in unison. The atmosphere was very surreal and BTS definitely brought people together where it was a cathartic experience and looking around, there were fans screaming, crying and singing along.

Following their shows in London, BTS flew to Paris to perform two shows before heading back to South Korea where they are currently in the midst of their celebrations for “BTS Festa” in accordance with their 6th anniversary since debut. In the run-up to the date of their debut – 13th June – they release content for their fans such as unseen photos and choreography videos and original songs produced by the members themselves. They will also put on “muster” events titled ‘MAGIC SHOP’ hosted in Busan and Seoul which is exclusive to fan club members where they will be performing a variety of fan favourite songs. BTS will continue their Love Yourself: Speak Yourself tour with four stops in Japan beginning with Osaka on 6th July.