#the second half of this season was EXCELLENT. every character beat every relationship everything. they nailed it. so like

[lucytara]

side-eyeing everyone who calls bridgerton "bad tv" like can we unpack that? why, because it's not too dark to see what's happening on screen and nobody suffers endlessly? because it's primarily about love? because of its unsubtle message about female empowerment and autonomy, as well as unlearning toxic masculinity? because it's filmed through the female gaze rather than a male one? because it places so much importance on female pleasure and desire? because its predictability feels earned rather than the writers trying to "pull one over" on their audience? because it attempts inclusivity in a period of time really not known for it, specifically because the showrunners believe people deserve to see themselves in media?

i'm not here to get into any debates over what constitutes a "good" show or not, and this isn't actually a post to open up the floor. i'm merely asking why one of the highest-watched, biggest-budget shows out there right now with great writing and excellent acting is considered "bad" or "guilty pleasure." and to me, frankly, a show that can essentially guarantee its happy endings for its focus characters and still make the journey completely worth it is a pretty good show.

[itsthenovelteafactor]

TV Shows Roundup: Jan - June

AKA every show I watched in the first half of 2024. I’ve been wanted to keep better track of my own viewing habits and thought it’d be fun to keep a running list with mini reviews. might do a tier list at the end of the year if I end up having enough. Curious what y’all have been watching/if you have any recommendations!

about 12 shows here which sounds like a lot but in my defense, there are a lot with one one season (currently!! we are manifesting some renewals here)

Percy Jackson and the Olympians (season one):

Full transparency: I was not watching this show. 12 year old me who was obsessed with Percy Jackson, knew who her godly parent would be, and acted out sword fights with her siblings, was watching this show. She has no complaints. School Spirits (season one):

As soon as I heard the premise of this show I was on board, but it ended up delivering even more than I expected. The mystery was interesting and I felt like I received information at the exact right pace, the ghosts made a very charming undead-breakfast club and the characters in general were very compelling. Whoever put that Phoebe Bridgers song at the end of episode 1 deserves and Emmy and I’m not kidding. Loki (season 2):

I’ve fallen out with the MCU as a whole, but this show brought me back for season 2. I appreciate how it stands on its own as a series with its own characters, worldbuilding, and story that doesn’t require I watch 15 movies and 2 shows to comprehend. This season leaned into the wacky scifi time trace shenanigans in a way that reminded me of Doctor Who at times. The ending made me unexpectedly emotional. The Bastard Son and the Devil Himself (season 1):

Okay, I liked the first couple episodes of this but once the main trio of Nathan, Annalise, and Gabriel were together it was *electric*. I loved how gorey and dark it wasn’t afraid to get and the characters played off each other so well. I’m devastated we won’t get to see more of these guys because despite the fast pacing of the show, you really grow to love these characters. Lockwood and Co (season one, rewatch):

Just as good the second time! Truly a masterfully done show; the worldbuilding, mysteries, and aesthetic are top notch but what sells it are the characters and their relationships to each other. There really is something incredibly comforting about this show for me, I keep coming back to Portland Row and the people who live there. The fact that we did not get to see later books in the series adapted is a tragedy.

Fleabag (seasons one and two):

This is just smartly done comedy with characters whose dysfunction manages to feel a little too familiar. I loved the shades of the stage play peeking through - there is a theatrical feel to the show overall that I love - and despite its cynicism, this show has a beating heart that occasionally hits you across the face. Basically everything they say about this one is true.

Doom Patrol (seasons three and four):

I will admit, season three (minus the DVDA) episode, felt very slow to me, but season four was an excellent return to form. It’s strange, bordering on absurdist, and flits between comedy and horror at a dizzying speed. This show is an underrated gem and truly one of a kind.

Cracow Monsters (season one):

This show is beautiful; its color scheme, setting, and camera work are immersive and feel like wandering down rainy cobblestoned streets. The story took a while to pick up, but the horror elements were very well done. I wish we’d spent a bit more time with the other students, as they all seemed like interesting characters in their own right. I loved the mythology, and folkloric inspiration.

The Artful Dodger (season one):

It’s a period drama, it’s a medical show, it’s a heist, it’s inspired by Charles Dickens. This show is utterly delightful and thoroughly engrossing. I suspected I would enjoy it from the concept alone, but there is just something completely charming about it start to finish I could not get out of my head.

Dead Boy Detectives (season one):

So…this show took over my brain. The world here is populated by dynamic and fascinating characters and the case of the week format allows for the chance to see them shine in different situations. It somehow balances the absurd, the macabre, and the heartfelt and once it finds its footing does not let up. It’s smart, eccentric, and basically candy for the kind of person who loves over analyzing the actions of fictional characters (me).

Hannibal (season 3):

Had to wait for this to come back on Amazon to finish and it did not disappoint. First half of the season was slower, but I really enjoyed the gothic castle sections. Second half was Red Dragon, which was really cool with these versions of the characters. A wholly satisfying (and appropriately morbid) conclusion to the series.

Andor (season 1)

People have been telling me to watch this and that I’d love it since it came out and they were all correct. There was so much more thought and care put into the depiction of life under an oppressive government and I expected and even if I wasn’t a Star Wars fan, the story is gripping and beautifully shot on its own. Because I *am* a Star Wars fan, it’s even better.

[wellhalesbells]

✨✨ TOP FIVES FOR 2020 ✨✨

2020 was, i think we can all agree, a massively chaotic year but i have never consumed as much media before in my life, so i thought others might benefit from my slothery uh, connoisseur.... ship?  yes, that.  below are the books, comics, shows, and movies that got me through!

B O O K S .

the starless sea, by erin morgenstern - i loooove this book because it loves me back.  it says: ‘oh, you’re a reader, well i have just the thing for you.’  it luxuriates in language and story and riddles and fairy tales and it feels like an entire library in a single tome.

they never learn, by layne fargo - oh fuuuuuck, this was satisfying.  i thought it might feel a little exploitative as it is very aware of the zeitgeist and likely would not exist without the #metoo movement but it never ever did.  this was a fucking ROMP, period.  reading about a woman getting away with murdering skeezy guy after rapey guy after shitty human just made me happier and happier.

moonflower murders, by anthony horowitz - this is the second in the susan ryeland series (and the first was hardcore good fun too) and really feels very classic mystery with the artful twist of catering to the literary community.  mainly because: susan isn’t a detective, she’s an editor and she gets drafted in this time because the clue to what happened to a missing woman is in a book she edited, if she can find it.  both of the books in this series have such an excellent coming together moment that is rare af to find.

the invisible life of addie larue, by v.e. schwab - the writing in this is just so good.  it has that feel to me where i just want to drop the book and open up my own page and let my fingers fly.  it’s that inspiring kind of writing that reminds you of all the things language can do.

crown of feathers/heart of flames, by nicki pau preto - aaahhh, this series is SO FREAKING GOOD!  why is there not more of a fandom for it, why???? it is so many of my favorite tropes all resting perfectly together to the point where you almost forget they’re tropes because they just so naturally evolved there.  ugh, it’s just.... it’s so heart-bursty good.

.... number 5, part 2?  raybearer, by jordan ifueko - this was just so original and i was invested af.  like, what a brilliant idea though and an even better execution??  i loved every character and am so looking forward to the next in the series so i can get to know them even better!!

honorable mentions (sh*t i still liked a whole heckuva lot): you/hidden bodies, by caroline kepnes // writers & lovers, by lily king // i’ll be gone in the dark, by michelle mcnamara // the faceless old woman who secretly lives in your home, by joseph fink & jeffrey cranor // girl, serpent, thorn, by melissa bashardoust // a little life, by hanya yanagihara // the guinevere deception, by kiersten white // obsidio (and the entire illuminae series), by amie kaufman & jay kristoff // the bone houses, by emily lloyd-jones // house of salt and sorrows, by erin a. craig // we hunt the flame, by hafsah faizal // savage legion, by matt wallace // blacktop wasteland, by s.a. cosby // crier’s war, by nina varela // the empress of salt and fortune/when the tiger came down the mountain, by nghi vo // upright women wanted, by sarah gailey // the monster of elendhaven, by jennifer giesbrecht // a deadly education, by naomi novik // you let me in, by camilla bruce // when you ask me where i’m going, by jasmin kaur // the lights go out in lychford/last stand in lychford (and the entire lychford series), by paul cornell // the devil and the dark water, by stuart turton // serpent & dove, by shelby mahurin // one by one, by ruth ware // ruthless gods (this was SUCH an upshot from the first book - it’s worth sticking with if you’re on the fence), by emily a. duncan // cemetery boys, by aiden thomas // the inheritance games, by jennifer lynn barnes // the fortunate ones (2021 release), by ed tarkington

C O M I C S .

cosmoknights, by hannah templer - the art was gorgeous, the gayness was glorious, and just.... hot HOOOOOOOOT lady knights in space?!  a princess winning her own hand?  find something not to love in there, i dare you.

don’t go without me, by rosemary valero-o’connell - wow. wow wow wow wow wow.  the writing was stunning, so lyrical and atmospheric and deep, and rosemary has to be one of my favorite artists but even that managed to come as a beautiful surprise because it was just so freaking bold.

through the woods, by emily carroll - i loooove emily carroll, the convergence of spine-tingling horror and art that feeds into it, that is both visually and aesthetically pleasing, is hard to beat!  p.s. i also read beneath the dead oak tree from her this year and it was also a BANGER.

the impending blindness of billie scott, by zoe thorogood - zoe is someone that i just want to follow.  she’s just starting and i want to be there for every single step.  i love her art style and her ability to tell a story with it.

above the clouds, by melissa pagluica - this was so unique, and such a baller concept, as nearly half the entire book is conveyed only through the art and yet you’re never once lost, never once confused as to what any character is thinking or feeling.  it’s a story within a story and only one of those gets words though they both are chock full of emotion!

um.... number 5, part 2? crowded, by christopher sebela - everything about this series is fun af.  crowd-funded assassination and a hirable bodyguard who’s rated like an uber driver???  and the chemistry between the two mains is so great and gay!!

honorable mentions: monster and the beast, by renji // long exposure, by kam ‘mars’ heyward // fence, by c.s. pacat // invisible kingdom, by g. willow wilson // ms. marvel, by g. willow wilson // heathen, by natasha alterici // not drunk enough, by tess stone // giant days, by john allison // die, by kieron gillen // be prepared, by vera brosgol // ascender (sequel to descender, which is also great), by jeff lemire // the unbeatable squirrel girl, by ryan north // bang! bang! boom!, by melanie schoen // gideon falls, by jeff lemire // life of melody, by mari costa // cry wolf girl, by ariel slamet ries // the tea dragon society, by katie o’neill // ptsd, by guillaume singelin // heartstopper, by alice oseman // solutions and other problems, by allie brosh // finding home, by hari conner // the magic fish, by trung le nguyen // something is killing the children, by james tynion iv // the weight of them, by noelle stevenson // spill zone, by scott westerfeld // skyward, by joe henderson // miles morales, by saladin ahmed

F I L M S.

parasite, dir. bong joon ho - oh it was satisfying, oh it was suspenseful, oh i had to watch some of it through my fingers but i loooooooved it.  such a good story and so well made.

knives out, dir. rian johnson - okay, everything about this movie was amazing.  every single character was fun as hell and i could’ve watched an entire movie about each of them.  what a great fucking mystery!

blindspotting, dir. carlos lopez estrada -  this made my heart hurt so damn much.  what glorious writing, acting, and story!

portrait of a lady on fire, dir. celine sciamma - gooooorgeous cinematography, amazing chemistry, and such a soft, atmospheric film.

the farewell, dir. lulu wang - i cried and my heart felt so full and i love it so so much.

um.... number 5, part 2? someone great, dir. jennifer kaytin robinson - no part of me expected to love a netflix movie this much but it’s a love story that doesn’t get told that often??  the end of a relationship and the true love of friendship and i love these girls and i love jenny and nate’s broken relationship.

honorable mentions: eighth grade, dir. bo burnham // booksmart, dir. olivia wilde // midsommar, dir. ari aster // the curse of la llorona, dir. michael chaves // the secret life of pets 2, dirs. chris renaud & jonathan del val // jojo rabbit, dir. taika waititi // the invisible man, dir. leigh whannell // the favourite, dir. yorgos lanthimos // can you ever forgive me?, dir. marielle heller // troop zero, dirs. bert & bertie // ready or not, dirs. matt bettinelli-olpin & tyler gillett // brave, dirs. mark andrews & brenda chapman & steve purcell // the half of it, dir. alice wu // palm springs, dir. max barbakow // doctor sleep, dir. mike flanaghan // uncut gems, dirs. benny sadfie & josh sadfie // birds of prey, dir. cathy van // bloodshot, dir. dave wilson // the old guard, dir. gina prince-bythewood // enola holmes, dir. harry bradbeer // hocus pocus, dir. kenny ortega // always be my maybe, dir. nahnatchka khan // finding dory, dirs. andrew stanton & angus maclane // die hard, dir. john mctiernan

S H O W S .

black sails (2014) - this show, this shooooooooow.  i cannot, it just makes me want to cry with how good it is.  the characters, the EMOTIONS, the story, the plaaaaaan.  like, the creators clearly had a plan for every single step of this show and it was a gOOD, GOOD PLAN.

the untamed (2019) - truly, cheesy good fun with one of the best gay romances ever.  i love these characters and their relationships to each other and the way it glories in its own ridiculousness.

the righteous gemstones (2019) - one of the things that bothered me about my next choice (the ratio of female to male nudity) was so much more realistic in this one (i mean, we’ve all gotten five thousand dick pics and i know like three people?  so the fact that there is so rarely male nudity in shows when there are tits everywhere..... no, how does that even make a tiny bit of sense?).  this show was such great, wonderful, awful fun.  they’re not great people and the show is under no delusion about that and it’s GLORIOUS!

the witcher (2019) - this was just hella fun, i loved the characters and the fantasy elements.  i’m excited for the next season, it’s just entertaining swashbuckling through and through!

fargo (2014) - all of this was really very enjoyable with the through line being somebody fucks shit up and gets involved in something they really shouldn’t be involved in that’s going to swallow them whole.  season one and season three were my stand-out favorites but they were all so violent, clever, and vicious!

um.... number 5, part 2? central park (2020) - um..... so many of the hamilton actors in a muscial cartoon drawn and written by the bob’s burgers team? WHAT ABOUT THAT DOESN’T SOUND AMAZING?!  it was such a joy to hear daveed diggs and leslie odom jr.’s voices again!!

honorable mentions: schitt’s creek // the mandalorian // mr. robot // broadchurch // mindhunter // jack ryan // the good place // the end of the f***ing world // big little lies // elite // kidding // servant // letterkenny // curb your enthusiasm // i am not okay with this // ozark // buzzfeed unsolved: true crime/supernatural // you // runaways // dear white people // dickinson // brooklyn nine-nine // will & grace // 9-1-1 // dead to me // solar opposites // never have i ever // killing eve // what we do in the shadows // grace and frankie // avenue 5 // roswell, new mexico // the bold type // evil // tuca & bertie // impulse // the umbrella academy // watchmen // infinity train // corporate // search party // on becoming a god in central florida // a.p. bio // criminal: uk // the morning show // mythic quest // last week tonight // prodigal son // the great

[thevampirediariesdiary]

SEASON 2 ARCS: Caroline

Elena – Damon -- Stefan

I don’t spend enough time talking about Caroline, the very first character I fell in love with in this show, and this has been an excellent season for her.  but it’s not just that last season she was anxious and self-conscious and weak, and now she’s sTRONG - although it is a little that - it goes deeper, and it’s way more interesting.

it’s pretty universally accepted that vampirism was kind of the best thing that ever happened to Caroline.  but why is that?  it certainly doesn’t start out that way - she finds out all her closest friends have been lying to her and allowing her to be manipulated, she loses control and kills someone, she has to leave Matt so that she doesn’t kill him, and even though her mother is finally making overtures towards closeness, she can’t accept or Liz might find out what she is.  and then, as if that wasn’t already bad enough, she ends up getting used and manipulated again, by the same person who literally murdered her, and her friends...kind of blame her for it? (at least until they find out that Katherine threatened Matt - because Matt’s worth saving, but if Caroline was protecting herself then that’s just cowardly, apparently.)  

so the big change, what Caroline needed to come into her own, wasn’t the bare fact of having power.  it wasn’t even controlling her power, although she does make that adjustment a lot more smoothly than any other new vampire we ever see.  no, it’s not until around 2.05, Kill or Be Killed, that we start to see new Caroline, because it’s then that the relationship between Caroline and Elena is finally healed (imperfectly) and reestablished on new terms.  Caroline’s jealousy of Elena and feeling of inferiority is what was holding her back in season one, and in season two she learns two things: first of all, she has things to offer now, as a vampire, that Elena absolutely does not.  she can be an individual, she can pursue her own goals and live her own story without worrying about Elena doing the same thing better.  she’s freed up from comparing herself to Elena because they are literally not in the same category anymore.  

and second, Caroline learns that following Elena around trying to undermine her relationships and make her feel guilty about everything isn’t going to get Caroline anywhere, it’s not going to be effective or satisfying.  she knows this because Katherine forces her to do all of that.  “It’s not a competition,” Bonnie told Caroline in the pilot, and Caroline answered brokenly, “Yeah, it is.”  but Katherine genuinely lives the competition with Elena all the time, and that allows Caroline to see how absolutely empty it is.  if Katherine reveals Elena to herself, and helps her to see that self-preservation before-all-else isn’t how she wants to live, Katherine also reveals Caroline to herself, and helps her to see that she doesn’t want her whole life to be a competition.  she plays weak and afraid, and uses that to beat Katherine at her own game - and then, for the most part, she retires victorious from the field of battle.  she’s absent from most, if not all, of the plotting and strategy sessions in the second half of season two - she’s off doing her own thing, prioritizing rebuilding her relationship with Matt and helping Tyler.  and it’s the relationship with Tyler that really demonstrates the depth of her transformation and her new freedom.

the language of competition would say, “I had to go through all of this, you should too,” or, “I don’t need to help you, you should help yourself.”  but this is not who Caroline chooses to be.  she helps Tyler just because he needs it, even at great risk to herself.  it’s a totally un-self-conscious decision, she doesn’t struggle with it - she sees that she has a chance to make sure he doesn’t feel alone like she did when she turned, and she is completely there for him for every step after that.  and when he betrays her, she knows right away that she didn’t deserve it; she doesn’t grovel or drown in self-pity, and she doesn’t give into hate.  she forgives Tyler, she has the confidence to reveal her true self to her mother, and she keeps smiling through it all.

[mannatea]

Not That Deep: A Psycho Pass Critique

This post is not spoiler-free, and is the result of multiple rewatches over the span of five years. If you remember any of my old Psycho Pass meta, please toss it straight into the garbage. I swear I’m better at conveying my thoughts now. (Joke’s on you if you think I’ve learned to condense my posts, though.)

Disclaimer: all opinions expressed within this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts and opinions of my followers or friends. I welcome discussion/debate.

Psycho Pass (abbreviated to PP for simplicity’s sake from this point forward) is an anime in that very specific genre that belongs to societies that are portrayed as Utopian but aren’t. For the record, the setting can’t really be described as ‘dystopian’ or ‘futuristic hellscape’ either. The series calls itself “cyberpunk.”

In the year 2112, Japan has closed itself off from the world and implemented the Sibyl System: a judgment oracle. Citizens of the country are monitored by the system and have a “psycho-pass” assigned to them. This “psycho-pass” measures their stress levels, brain activity, and potential to commit a crime. When a person’s crime coefficient (CC) exceeds 100, they are considered a latent criminal and put into isolation to receive mandatory therapy. If they do not recover, they remain in isolation. The story follows the main character, Tsunemori Akane, as she joins the series’ version of a police force.

Trigger warnings for this series include gore, violence (sexual, emotional, physical), and an obscene amount of philosophy.

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Again, below the readmore/cut will be spoilers.

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Worldbuilding/Craft

I feel like it’s important to get into the meat of the discussion as quickly as possible with this series, especially considering the title of this post: Not That Deep.

I’m not going to bother ‘rating’ the different facets/aspects of the show because I don’t think it’s necessary, and this isn’t really a review so much as a discussion/critique. Either you liked the series or you didn’t. If you’re reading this you either have an open mind or you want to get angry, and both reasons are at least a little valid.

PP is a series that REALLY wants to be deep, but falls flat in almost every conceivable way. I’m saying this as someone who enjoyed it enough to write fanfiction about it the last time I watched it, and who not only recommended it to multiple friends, but screenshared the entire series with one recently so that she could see it.

I think the general concept of Sibyl and Akane’s futuristic society is presented in a digestible way. I appreciate the attempts to integrate cool future tech into the show, but I’m especially impressed by the way they go about it. It’s all stuff that your average person living right now would adopt and use regularly if given a chance (auto driven cars, drones, AI secretaries, holo clothes/outfits). Without those specific scenes, I feel like the worldbuilding would almost collapse in on itself; these little details made it easy to imagine living in the world, and gave a little personality to the characters as they made use of them—like little glimpses into their personal taste.

It also helped to take the focus and pressure off of the less-nice aspects of the Sibyl System. No wonder people are generally pretty happy/content in this world: they can wear sweatpants and just holo something else over it! (Sign me up!)

Unfortunately the worldbuilding beyond that isn’t great, but I also don’t think it’s fair to say that it’s bad. It’s just...kind of mediocre...while still managing, at least for the first season, to feel coherent.

We have hues and crime-coefficients. They are not the same thing, but they might as well be because one isn’t bad without the other being bad: EVER. Ginoza’s CC rises as his hue darkens throughout S1. Togane’s hue is black and he has the highest CC on record. Makishima’s hue is clear and his CC is 0 (when he wills it to be). What’s the point of having both, then? Is it just for a fun color-coding system? It’s never explained in any way that makes sense. The one character likely to have a high CC and a clear hue is Makishima (a sociopath), but he has both a clear hue and a low CC. (Kamui is another anomaly, but he can’t be measured at all, so he doesn’t really fit into this specific discussion.) Basically, having hues and CCs both exist just feels a little bit too much like “it sounded cool so we included it” instead of: “These both serve serious purposes in the world.” They want really bad to fling philosophy at the viewers, but seem to neglect this really large aspect of the world where it would be perfect to latch on.

Technology is advanced to the point of having cybernetic arms that function effortlessly and people can almost achieve full cybernization if they have the money/will to. Kamui was 184 people stitched together lol... And yet Akane has just one living grandparent (who apparently can’t even move on her own). I’m not really put off by this, but you’d think the technology/health debate would be a much bigger part of the story beyond the news broadcast that was shown.

I think the biggest niggling little worldbuilding issue is the fact that the implementation of Sibyl happened ~20 years ago. I like the detail for what it gives us for some characters (Masaoka and Ginoza specifically), but I find it mostly implausible. Maybe it was fully implemented 20 years ago, but the framework was another 20 years in the making. It just doesn’t work otherwise. The second it was implemented families would have been shattered and that shattering would have put even more people into isolation due to their CC rising. I mean, if someone took my 5-year-old away from me, I’d be in isolation REAL QUICK, ‘cause that’s the kind of trauma you don’t just Get Over or Move Past.

Speaking of five-year-olds, in the boarding school episodes, they mention a law that protected minors, which feels out of place because Kagari was not protected by that law...which means it couldn’t have been around very long in the first place. If the scanners can flag a 5-year-old child and take him away from his parents, high school students aren’t exempt either. The mention of the law would have been a nice touch if it had only recently been appealed/removed, but it was only around for a few years ~20 years ago, so it feels awkwardly placed/silly.

Again, not everything worldbuilding/craft-related is bad. Like I said earlier, the world in general feels pretty cohesive and the characters belong there. The issues mostly sit with the fact that they tried to include a lot of ‘neat’ or ‘dramatic’ (or even ‘dark’) things...without stopping to consider if they actually fit within the narrative they were trying to construct.

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Plot/Storylines

This is where the series shines. Or at least, this is probably the strongest point in PP’s favor.

The biggest criticism I have: it doesn’t actually do anything new and exciting.

That said, I don’t think every bit of media out there needs to flip the script to be enjoyed, and I liked PP just fine for what it was.

Season One was definitely stronger in this department than later material.  What made S1 feel strong was having enough time to actually move the plot along while also developing the characters. S2 was comparatively rushed and had a lot of really unnecessary plotlines and gore. The movie was...eh, but I think it was an improvement over S2. (I haven’t seen Sinners of the System yet, so I can’t comment on those installments.)

I can find fault with a lot of S1 stuff, but for the most part I think it did a pretty good job and any faults I’d bother to point out would just be me nitpicking. The storylines melded into one another, everything was connected, et cetera. Unfortunately this comes at the cost of character relationships/development, but I’ll talk about that later. Besides, I’d rather have a cohesive series than not, so this isn’t exactly a criticism so much as an observation. The production team(s) did an excellent job of making the most of the screentime they had to work with.

S2 feels flawed almost from the start. Rather than build off of what we already learned in S1 and further develop the characters, it chose to rush headlong into a half-assed plot featuring an unbelievable antagonist. Yikes. I think it brought up an interesting question in “WC?” but instead of striking a believable balance they really just made an antagonist who was 184 people’s bodies stitched together. I can’t get over how stupid that was. Honestly, it was straight-up foolish of the writers to go through with that concept. Makishima might have been a pretentious pile of shit, but at least he felt like a human being. Kamui as a concept was just too overblown to work.

Also working against S2 was Togane. That whole plotline was completely unnecessary and throwing Akane’s grandmother under a bus on top of that was just the icing on the idiot cake. S2 was the Break the Cutie trope tenfold, but there was no danger and therefore no sense of urgency or fear. It was just gross for the sake of being gross, which was disappointing. I’m not saying that Togane isn’t the type of person to beat a crippled old lady to death, because he is, but I also never thought he was an idiot, and the progression of his attempts to blacken her hue jumped straight to the moon instead of progressing at a pace that felt more natural/reasonable. If the guy hasn’t been eliminated by an inspector after blackening many of their hues, he’s not the kind of dope to take silly risks. He could have tried any number of things to ruin Akane that didn’t involve her poor old granny (who had no real screentime and whom the audience had no connection with anyway).

S2 also gave us Ginoza doubting Akane’s sanity early on (acting like she might have written WC on her own wall), which not only feels incredibly out of character for S2 Ginoza, but never amounts to anything/goes anywhere anyway.

Hungry Chicken was an interesting touch, but SO MANY PEOPLE DIED that its impact was diminished. Division 3 had such a non-appearance in the series anyway that them being there at all just felt stupid without more lead-up.

For what it’s worth, I don’t think S2 is irredeemable, but I feel like it missed the mark consistently from start to finish. A shame, because the concept of a ‘plural’ psycho-pass might have been nifty if, say, Kamui was made up of 5 or 6 people’s bodies. Then the holos would feel meaningful. Then each ‘part’ of him would feel like a different person with different feelings and motives and skills. 

Anyway, I think S2 muddied the waters too much with Kamui and the body doubles and Shisui all that nonsense, too. At a certain point if your plot gets too complex, especially with overblown concepts thrown into the mix, it just feels silly. That’s basically what happened to S2.

Again, S1 wasn’t perfect. Makishima was exhaustingly boring. Cool, so you can quote a bunch of crap you’ve read. Great. So can I. Who are you as a person, though? That Guy in my Philosophy 101 class who argued with the professor? Yeah, I could picture that! 

People love waxing poetic about how amazing an antagonist Makishima was, but the dude was a hollow shell quoting things other people said 100+ years ago. It felt like he didn’t even have his own thoughts, and as far as I saw, there weren’t even any fake philosophers mixed in with the rest to make us feel a little extra immersed in the world (and/or give us another philosophical spin on the situation).

Hey, maybe that was the point, but I’ve never seen that criticism leveled fully at the character/plot in general, so here we are.

It was just too heavy-handed. By the end of the series I wanted him dead just so I could stop listening to his mini-lectures.

Still, it may as well have been amazing compared to 184-People-Stitched-Together being the main antagonist. 

I think the movie jumped in face-first and was perhaps a little too...all over the place? But I didn’t have to endure 184 people as a single person, or ears in boxes, so... I consider it a win.

The bitter reality when it comes to Psycho Pass and the plot is that...the plot is its greatest strength, but it’s Not That Deep...even though you can tell that it’s consistently trying to be. Oof.

I think if they’d shot for something less complex, especially in S2, they’d have at least met their goals of depth/consistency. Instead what we ended up with was having a fairly decent plot devolve into one of the worst second seasons I’ve seen.

--

Characters & Character Development

For such a small cast, I think PP did a pretty piss-poor job with most of their characters, but the series as a general rule is so plot-heavy that it’s not really surprising.

I can’t help but expect a lot from a series that only has a few ‘main’ characters. In this case, Akane is the Big Main Character, and is flanked by Kogami and Ginoza. In S1, there was a decent balance (with Masaoka and Kagari thrown in). In S2, it was mostly just Akane and The Bad Guys, which would be fine if the plot was incredible, or The Bad Guys were super duper interesting, but as discussed previously, the plot was akin to liquid cat barf and the characters weren’t treated much better. It was a little insulting to be handed characters who could be really fun in the right hands (literally everyone) only to see them used as plot vehicles/hallucinations/memory thoughts. Kogami randomly appearing for long boring scenes wasn’t fun or cool; it was uninspired. It’d be way cooler if it was for five seconds and felt like a...memory, almost...a passing thought. For more screentime, it could even happen more often. But no, it’s gotta be like two minutes long. 

How about the scene where Saiga talks to Koichi who just keeps turning into Kamui and he talks for like five straight minutes? UGH. Is this supposed to feel deep and meaningful? It doesn’t.

Shion sleeps with Yayoi so she can monologue plot things while Yayoi is getting dressed. Can I add that Yayoi doesn’t matter at all at any point, and Shion conveniently can do anything that needs to be done because Reasons?

Togane isn’t around long enough to feel like a worthwhile villain. Nobody cares about Shisui because we honestly don’t even know who she is! Oh, were we supposed to feel bad for Division 3? We’re supposed to feel gross about Akane’s grandmother but the writers took one line in S1 and used that to try and break the character (while also knowing full well it wouldn’t have any effect on her). Let’s not forget Mika, who is remembered as being incredibly annoying...while everyone forgets/doesn’t notice that she’s the student from the boarding school who didn’t die (and we never see her outside of work doing her own thing, which adds to her just being a pain).

Ginoza seems a little like he’s supposed to fill a spot his father left, but he doesn’t, and he’s pushed to the background to...not really do anything of import. Hinakawa is a worthless character who exists just for one plot-specific purpose. Saiga exists so that more dialogue can happen and not seem too out of place.

I’m not saying the character writing overall is trash, but it definitely ain’t good, and I think S2 is where it really struggled. S1 gave us a really interesting character in Kogami. Akane was learning and struggling to fit in at work and do things well, which was somewhat relatable. Ginoza was struggling with his mental health throughout the entire first season and had a lot of character development. But then S2 happens and the development kind of...stopped? Akane didn’t seem to really learn much because she was too busy always being right? Kogami noped out of Japan so I didn’t expect anything with him specifically, but why couldn’t Yayoi have moved into the limelight? Shion? One of the new guys? ANYONE?

Don’t get me wrong. I still have characters I like, and I can see potential in the others. I just wish I was seeing more than potential is all, especially with characters like Yayoi that have been around from Day1 and still haven’t really done anything noteworthy.

--

General Criticisms/Other Thoughts

There’s a lot of shock-value violence (SVV). I guess you could say I ‘get’ the purpose of it, but there’s literally no reason that helmeted person couldn’t have beat a man to death with a hammer instead of a woman, especially considering that we have to see Spooky Boogie’s corpse looking grotesque and plenty of other crimes against women.

I feel like S2 was especially guilty of SVV, but it existed in S1, too, pretty much to the point that it started to anger me. It might not have bothered me as much if some of the violent acts were cases that stood alone, but they were all linked to the main plot and that somehow seemed to make it worse.

I also wasn’t a fan of Akane constantly being naked/near naked, of Yuki being in her underwear/negligée, of every crime against a woman ending up with a woman’s clothes being removed, and (the list goes on). One of these things? I might be able to overlook. All of them? Come on. Don’t pretend these creators weren’t doing this for their own purpose.

(I know the scene with Aoyanagi gave us the men getting undressed too [This is your natural self!], but then they showed her with all these action scenes, legs spread wide open, coordinated lacy undies/bra... C’MON. All the butt-shots of Professor Saiga and Kogami don’t make up for this or cancel it out. I KNOW WHAT YOU GUYS ARE DOING AND I DO NOT LIKE IT.)

The music was mediocre but acceptable/fitting. 

The animation is nice. 

--

Overall

This isn’t a series I’d recommend to just anyone. It has a lot of issues, and they range from being petty annoyances to straight up offensive. If you can ignore the misogynistic undertones and general lack of consistent attention to the characters, there’s a decently interesting plot waiting for you.

Unfortunately the series just feels...lacking, in the end. There is a S3 coming out (apparently featuring other characters), so the creators aren’t done playing in this world. Maybe S3 will fix some of the consistency issues?

I’ve seen a lot of people make comments about Psycho Pass being a ‘genius’ work, ignored by the general public despite its godliness. I agree that it doesn’t get the attention you’d expect a series of this caliber (nice animation, decent soundtrack, likable main female character who isn’t some moeblob) to have, but I think I hit upon all the reasons it’s not everyone’s cuppa in the first place...and while it is open for fanfiction and so on, the lack of attention to the characters by the series itself makes it less likely to appeal to the sort of people who write fanfiction. So there you have it: a pretty decent, mostly coherent series that’s terribly violent and misogynistic. Definitely not everyone’s cup of tea, but worth a watch if you can get past those pesky negatives.

[itsclydebitches]

RWBY Recaps: Volume 6. Argus Limited

This is a re-posting from Oct. 27th, 2018 in an effort to get all my recaps fully on tumblr. Thanks!

Volume Six is here, folks! I am so very, stupidly excited for this season. Heartfelt thanks go out to my friend who was all, “lol yeah sure” when I begged to use their FIRST account to watch. There are heroes in this world and they’re one of them.

A quick note about recaps from here on out: they will (my productivity willing) be uploaded sometime on Thursday or Friday proceeding the new episode. This is partly so that I’m not scrambling to post immediately afterwards—stress and bad writing all around—and partly so that, you know, we can actually recap stuff before the next episode airs. So yeah, that’s the goal.

Let’s do it!

We open on a gorgeous, snowy scene with ROOSTER TEETH PRESENTS smack dab in the middle. You know that feeling you get when you hear the Harry Potter theme at the beginning of a new film and the whole theater loses their shit? Same with Doctor Who and Star Wars? Whatever your preferred fandom, the point is I get the same chills when RWBY comes back and it’s excellent.

The animation really is gorgeous though and I sigh happily whenever I see it, thinking back to the days when cookies disappeared directly into Ruby’s mouth. There’s nostalgia, sure, but it doesn’t beat this detail.

We hear the distant sound of a train and then we’re thrown into exactly what we’ve wanted for literal years now: Team RWBY back together again, fighting not creepy adults but just some good, old fashioned grimm. They’re chimeras and… griffins? Ngl I’m not entirely sure, but they’re big, flying, fire-breathing nasties, so that’s really all we need to know. Luckily everyone falls back into old habits, easily supporting one another and executing perfect attacks (a contrast to the residual tension we’ll see in just a bit). Ruby is so busy posing after a successful kill that she misses the grimm coming at her from behind. Weiss saves her ass with a cheeky, “Thank me later!” At the end of the fight we get a reversal wherein a hit nearly sends Weiss tumbling off the side of the train, though Ruby grabs her at the last second with her own, “Thank me later!” It’s a fun little exchange made better when we think back to the Vytal Tournament. Weiss still “had her back” then too, but was more resistant to Ruby’s proclamation that they’re BFFs. Now the teasing is on both ends.

Notably, Ruby saves Weiss by taking her into her semblance, creating a cloud of rose petals that are half red, half white. Now combined with the old team-ups and some shots in the new opening, this has led a number of fans (myself included) to wonder if a WhiteRose pairing is in our future. Which also means that the ship wars are in full swing. Needless to say I’m not about that nonsense and I’ll only point out here what I said episodes back: if it’s a queer relationship with one of our main girls, and not a random side character who was previously out to murder a whole family? I’m on board.

Back in the fight though. The rest of team RNJR appears with Nora exclaiming, “Why is it always something?” God that’s a mood. Welcome to adulthood, kid. It’s just one crisis after another—except in your case the crises are objectively more dangerous. Sorry about that. We get to see Jaune’s improved reflexes as he fends off all the fireballs with his shield while Ren and Nora team up to knock some of the monsters out.

Honestly, I love this trope in action stories. Where—as Nora does here—a character just shouts out a friend’s name to get their attention and they immediately know what kind of move they’re about to pull off. It’s made more hilarious to me given that RWBY once had attack names and Jaune at least made the attempt with JNPR...but apparently they're not needed anymore. So unrealistic, yet so very cool when used.

So yeah, things are going pretty smoothly… up until Oscar yells out “Tunnel!” Ruby saves Weiss from falling, they manage to get over or between the cars, and in the sudden darkness we transition to what we only realize later is a flashback. At least, I didn’t realize it until later. Totally thought we’d had a time skip and they were just hopping another train…

My stupidity aside, before we hit the train station we actually see a familiar hallway filled with angry voices discussing the disaster at Haven—one of which is Adam’s. I really enjoyed this technique, wherein we slowly pan across the room as the voices grow more frantic and the sounds of fighting break out, the camera revealing bodies scattered across the floor. By the time we reach the throne—and Adam on it— we realize that the fight occurred prior to this moment, something that Adam is now remembering. He goes all skyward scream on us as he howls menacingly. Okay, dude. Compared to Cinder and Salem you’re really not all that.

Now we’re at the train station where Qrow is narrating a letter to Ironwood. Hell yes, please bring back the badass, protective Ironwood who defended the students at Beacon and stood up for Weiss. I’d be very pleased if he joins the RWBY gang by the Volume’s end. Qrow’s optimistic about the trip—they’ve plans to reach Ironwood before the letter does, which says either good things about Remnant’s transportation or bad things about its mail—though of course we as the audience know it’s not going to be nearly that simple. We learn that only two weeks have passed since the battle, but people are still reeling from all the implications. Lionheart tragically lost his life defending the school and oh, some students coincidentally were there and did some stuff. Excellent choice in showing us the mindless crowds while we hear this, the naive masses who, yes, would absolutely believe a story like this.

It’s easy to criticize no one supposedly noticing Salem, magic, the finger Ozpin has in every pie, etc. but ultimately people believe what they’re told—especially when it’s much easier to swallow than the truth.

Enough of the doom and gloom though. Ruby is having the time of her life.

Qrow: “What’s with the running?”

Ruby: “What’s with the standing?!”

I love this girl so very much and it’s wonderful when we get to see her acting like the kid she is. She uses her semblance with abandon because yeah, if I could turn into rose petals I’d be doing that all the time too. Ruby teases Yang with something from the gift shop and I really hope we get to see what that is. Yes, we end the episode with everyone left stranded in the wilderness, but if Yang’s bike can survive then so can Ruby’s souvenirs.

(Seriously though they presumably lost all their luggage that sucks.)

Everyone else is in top, feel-good form too. Nora daydreams about hitting the beach, complete with a thought bubble of topless Ren and a beachball. Weiss quips about how she spent all last Volume getting out of Atlas, thanks, but Ruby reassures her that at least she’s back with the team now. When two jokers arrive boasting about how they’ll be the ones keeping the train safe from grimm, Ruby and Yang act exactly as nieces should when your cool uncle is telling them off. AKA, making fun of them behind his back.

God they must have been terrors as toddlers. I mean we already know Yang carted Ruby off into the woods one day so yeah, I’m pretty confident in expressing my surprise that Tai doesn’t have a full head of gray hair.

The two Nice Guys go on to specify that they’ll provide extra protection for a “generous tip,” which—while essentially a throwaway line—reminds us how most of the world functions outside of our close-knit cast. Money, and more specifically Schnee money, quite literally dictates who lives and who dies. Not everything about RWBY is fantasy oriented…

We learn that everyone is just waiting on Blake— “as usual”—and we cut to her with Ilia as the two of them say their goodbyes. Ilia will be helping Ghira lead the Faunus in a “new movement” and is supposedly 100% on the straight and narrow now. Cool? I guess? To be honest I’m fine with her taking a back seat for this Volume. There’s a moment where we get a shot of Ilia and Blake’s feet, the former’s angled forward in a classic kiss pose, and I was super glad to see that they were just sharing a hug. I really don’t want the first LGBTQIA kiss on RWBY to be iffy on consent, considering that Ilia knows Blake isn’t interested. Hug though? That was super sweet.

Sun and Neptune show up to say their goodbyes too. They’re heading to Vacuo to meet up with the rest of their team because, in Sun’s words, he’s the “worst leader” ever. You kinda are, dude? I loved Sun up until they had him following Blake without her permission and continuing to do so after she asked for space, all in the name of the guy supposedly knowing what the girl really needs. The reminder that Sun abandoned his team to do this just reinforces how much I dislike that plot-line.

Sun gets the kiss—on the cheek—and after leaving Neptune lectures him on “letting [Blake] go.” Except it’s not about you? Blake is off to quite literally save the world and the fact that these guys view that as a threat to any potential relationship is… icky. Ugh. Oh well. They’re presumably gonna be offscreen for a while.

The train finally arrives and everyone piles in. We’re back to bunk beds! And of course Team RWBY is situated exactly as they were in Beacon’s dorms. Weiss gets annoyed with Ruby’s cloak hanging down over the side. Blake has a book in her lap. Ruby challenges Yang to a video game. Cue nostalgia. I fully expect fluffy AU fics where they ride the train all the way to Atlas and treat the trip as one giant, dramatic sleepover. This is non-negotiable.

Tension seeps back in though when Yang moves to pull her luggage from the rack and Blake immediately hops up to help her. In a super guilty “I know I fucked up and now I’m gonna smother you” way. Really excellent voice acting here. Yang ends up reassuring her. No, things aren’t perfect between them yet… but they’re definitely improving.

While short, for me this scene was perfectly balanced between acknowledging the girls’ complicated relationship without totally undermining the happy mood. Nicely done.

Then Qrow shows up with a drink. A drink with a slice of orange on the side. I have never enjoyed a moment more and I was so surprised I didn't take a screenshot of it. Clearly I was too distracted and am I too lazy to go back for one now? You betcha. The point is everything is fine, dandy, and filled with alcohol.

So of course RT goes and ruins it for me. Something hits the train and in a split second everyone is on high alert. A quick peek out the window reveals grimm and Blake mutters darkly that it’s “just my luck.”

Qrow: “Not yours.”

Are they gonna leave the safety of the train to those bozos from before? Hell no. Especially when one guy is grabbed right when the fight starts. I mean, poor dude, but he also kinda sucked as a Huntsmen. He wouldn’t have even made it past Beacon’s initiation, let alone graduated.

…I guess he’s kind of like early Jaune? Useless, wannabe hero who acts more confident than he actually is? Aw, now I really do feel bad.

He’s grimm food though. Gotta move on with our lives.

The other dude isn’t doing too well either, though RWBY and NJR + Oscar quickly show up, coming full circle to where we began the episode. Oscar insists that he’s got this fight under control which tells me (hopefully) that in the past two weeks they’ve had serious conversations about if and when Ozpin gets to have control. That’s super great, though I do wish we could have seen it. Flashbacks, maybe?

As the fight begins Ruby announces that the plan amounts to “don’t let anyone else die.” Uh...Ruby? Buddy. Pal. This is why people die. Because they didn’t have plans! Pyrrha��god rest her reckless soul—went off after a freaking Maiden by herself. Jaune got Amber killed because he didn’t obey the plan of watching the door. Lionheart frantically calls Salem with no real plan for what he’s going to offer her in exchange for his life! Plans are important, Ruby. You’re the team strategist. It was a badass line, I grant you, but please do not.

Luckily, no one (else) dies. That would have been pretty brutal for a premier. +1 point for world building where we see that trains like this have built in defenses to fight off grimm. -2 points for how useless it ends up being. As Qrow quickly points out, the turrets are drawing all the grimm to the front of the train where the passengers are. So, not good. Oscar is charged with telling the surviving goon to knock it off already while Qrow faces off against the super fierce chimera grimm. Not gonna lie though, when its tail first started up I thought Qrow was getting attacked by a dove…

This time when we hit the tunnel everyone makes it back safely inside with the exception of Goon #2 who gets his arm injured in the scramble. He’s literally crying on the ground when, in a pretty harsh move, Qrow drags him up and demands to know what the hell all that was. Civility and benefit of the doubt? Not Qrow’s strong points. It allows Ruby to take control of the situation though. How do you make sure that your cast of kids is continually calling the shots?  A) isolate them and B) when you can’t do that have the adults act like children instead. We see that a fair bit in RWBY.  

Jaune steps in to heal the guy’s arm, which is an unexpected surprise. I honestly thought we'd get a whole Volume’s worth of him figuring out how to access and control his semblance, though I suppose once it manifests you’ve got the basics down. We’ve seen that semblances can be improved upon—Ruby turning other people she carries into petals; Ren dampening the emotions of a whole train—so presumably Jaune will be able to heal more complex and life-threatening things in the future. We also hear in the ensuing conversation that he can amplify someone else’s aura…to be decided what exactly that means, how it connects to healing, and what the limits of the skill is.

During some theorizing about the attack Ozpin brings up that grimm are attracted to the relic they’re carrying and… oh boy. Here we go. Is it tradition that every recap the fandom goes for Ozpin’s throat while I stand here defending him? Might be. Let’s create a (semi) comprehensive list:

This might have been less of a secret and more of a slip. The guy is thousands of years old and the forces they’re dealing with are stupidly complicated. He can’t info dump every detail of a multi-century war in one sitting. So—

He might have thought this was one of those innocuous things that shouldn’t take precedent right now. Not the sort of thing he needs to worry them with. He claims in the promo that he didn't lie to the group and he quite possibly didn't. There's a big difference between lying and not telling someone every single possible thing that might be pertinent. Especially when—

We know that grimm are already attracted to people/negative emotion and they’re sequestered within a whole train full of presumably stressed travelers. There’s no reason to think the artifact would put them in more danger than they already are and therefore isn't at the top of the list of revelations to dole out. Especially with—

Qrow and his bad luck semblance. He literally just implied that the grimm were there because of him. There’s a reason he didn’t want Ruby near him during the fight with Tyrian and now they’re all stuck together in close quarters. The grimm were coming anyway. Even if we didn't have Qrow's semblance and big crowds we can also assume as much because of—

Those turrets. They weren’t there for a fashion statement. The whole train was crazy armored. They’re clearly very used to getting attacked on this route. It's a normal thing.

All of which is to say that the relic is one of MANY reasons why they might have gotten a buttload of grimm on their tail. Ozpin mentions this as one possibility in a very “Here’s something else to consider” way and everyone (characters and fandom alike) jump on him like he’s solely responsible for this predicament. Besides, what would they have done differently? Not carry the relic? That’s not an option. Be more on guard? They’re already constantly on guard. None of their actions would have changed had they known.

Really though, it’s the keeping of secrets that people are mad about, not necessarily what the secret is. So if we ignore the possibility above that Ozpin legit didn’t think this was worth mentioning/even forgot about it, we have a) he withheld the information because it might have made them wary about traveling with others, but they need to get to Atlas as fast as possible and the train is the best way to do that. So yeah, that’s a possible change, though I agree with Ozpin’s theoretical logic here. It was worth the risk.

b) he didn’t tell them because—again—worry is a negative emotion and that might have just doubled their problem. Awful as it is, knowing you're carrying a thing that might attract more grimm is one of the best ways to make sure that you do, in fact, attract them. Knowing what the relic does is dangerous. 

c) he doesn’t trust them with all the information about these super powerful relics that are going to decide the fate of their world. Which honestly? Kind of fair. Yeah, I know he promised them no more secrets, but this is a centuries old, god-like entity making a promise to a child. It’s not even really a matter of trust anymore. We’ve got a core group of nine here and everyone has someone else they’re close to. Ruby isn’t going to keep secrets from Tai. Blake will probably fill Sun in when she sees him again. Weiss is close to her sister. Etc. In short, as soon as this many people know a secret it isn't a secret anymore. Ozpin is no doubt aware that anything he tells to their now massive group is fair game and he has to carefully consider what he wants to risk going public/landing in Salem's hands. A general doesn't tell every lieutenant the details of every plan. That's a good way to lose the war. Fate of the world vs. a promise made to Yang? C’mon. There are priorities here.

d) finally, we’ve seen evidence—particularly after the iconic food fight—that Ozpin desperately wants his students to be kids as long as they can. He might keep information to himself simply because he doesn’t want to burden them. And given all the reasons listed above for why they'd be dealing with grimm anyway, what's the harm in giving them what little peace he can? It's not perfect reasoning and if this is the case the others have a right to be annoyed, but it's understandable. It certainly doesn't make Ozpin the monster I see countless posts painting him as.

Plus, Yang? I’m not sure you have the right to get indignant about keeping secrets right now. Granted, there’s some ambiguity surrounding whether she’s mentioned Raven as the Spring Maiden, but regardless we haven’t seen any evidence that she’s told the group the details of what happened down in the vault. That’s a pretty big thing to be keeping to yourself.

A lot bigger than, “Oh yeah this relic attracts the thing we’re attracting anyway. My bad.”

Why the relic attracts grimm is another question. Because it’s connected to the original brothers? Just because Salem wants it and she seems to be the grimms’ creator? We’ll have to see.

Ruby interrupts everyone’s fury to point out that they have bigger issues at the moment and Ozpin’s expression kind of kills me? He looks so shocked to have anyone standing up for him, even if it’s a defense of practicality instead of his actions. I wonder if this Volume is going to have the team starting to lose a little faith in Ruby. Given the clear divide here (angry Ren, Nora, Weiss, Yang, and Blake on one side; Ruby, Oscar, Ozpin on the other) this might be a major theme moving forward. It would make a lot of sense too given Ruby's past relationship with Ozpin. To Yang he's just her headmaster; to Ruby he's the headmaster that let her into her dream school early. To Blake he's someone who wanted information from her before she was ready to give it; to Ruby he's the adult who gave her advice at the dance and was emotionally open with her about committing more mistakes "than any man, woman, or child." No matter how far she's come, they'll always be a part of Weiss that sees Ozpin as the teacher who didn't give her the leadership position she thought she deserved; to Ruby he's the man that has put a staggering amount of trust in her: by letting her into his school, giving her a team, sending her to Mountain Glenn, etc.

Now, it might be time for Ruby to put her trust in Ozpin.

Fight temporarily averted, they decide to separate the teams… which felt a little forced to me. I mean I get it. As said, giant group. It’s hard to write and keep track of that many, so let’s knock three offstage for a while. Jaune, Ren, and Nora will see the people to safety while Ruby and the rest of the gang eventually catch up. We get a glimpse of Maria—the old lady with awesome glasses—clearly plotting something and then everyone heads back to the roof to finish the fight with the grimm.

Blake has a quick vision of Adam; the last time she separated a train car. Excellent touch there. Ruby tells Ren to use his semblance through the scroll, but we also get a glimpse of their signals getting weaker. Another nice touch considering how important we know the scrolls are throughout the RWBY universe: how the team keeps in contact during the Volume Four short, the damage that the fall of the CCT tower has caused, etc.

We get a final, epic showdown with a massive grimm where everyone’s teamwork proves to be some top tier stuff. Blake and Yang capture it using Blake’s ribbon. Weiss freezes off its wings. Then—in a fantastic split screen—Ruby and Qrow both use their scythes to cut the creature in two. I’m here for the power family moves.

Only problem is that a final fireball from the grimm hits the train, derailing their section. Weiss keeps them all from dying an awful death, but now they’re kind of stranded.

I mean, they already were stranded before, but I guess the hope was the back of the train would have carried them farther down the tracks before losing momentum?

In the final scene we have an unexpected voice happily proclaiming that they’re still alive but boy, that was a close one! Maria hobbles out, having clearly planned to be with this group when they went their own way.

My personal theory? She knows (and to some extent recognizes) Ozpin. I can’t believe he wasn’t involved in a conflict like the Great War. Hell, he was probably at the center of it and Maria looks very old by RWBY standards. We have no concept of how long people in this world can live so I don’t think it’s a stretch to put her in her 90s or well over 100—old enough to have fought in the War and potentially recognize one of the central figures, even in a new reincarnation depending on her instincts, knowledge, and semblance. Her name lends a bit of credence to her age, if nothing else. As far as I know “Maria” doesn’t mean/isn’t evocative of a color… though I’m far from an expert. Could totally be wrong about that.

Regardless, we’ll see. More info arrives next week!

Other Details of Note

The grimm are at a distance when we first spot them and they actually look a lot like crows. The same motif we’ve seen with Raven and Qrow’s entrances but, you know, bad.

I really liked Qrow’s line to Ironwood about how they’re bringing “more than bad news.” It’s appropriately vague—can’t go admitting that Oz is back with the group—and at the same time quite up-lifting.

I personally take Ozpin’s “I hope they’re not from Beacon” as more of a joke than a true worry. If you’re telling me that this old as balls control freak doesn’t remember every student that’s ever passed through those doors… I don’t believe you.

When Blake is saying goodbye to Ilia and Sun we have lots of animation for her ears, helping to express her emotions. It says a lot about her character development that she hasn’t re-adopted the bow in such a crowded, human packed space.

Neptune is pursuing the “wrong tree” okay lol that was good.

When Neptune and Sun discuss re-uniting the team we briefly hear the soundtrack from their Vytal Festival match. Excellent.

Interestingly, Oscar gives Ozpin control immediately during the conversation about the relic, almost like he already knew what was going to be revealed and understood that it was important… I wonder how much they’re sharing thoughts now, two weeks later.

Here, have a beach Ren and happy birb. Yes, I went back for the screenshots...

[woodwind-sensei]

The Program Components: An In-Depth Look

 If you’re relatively new to the figure skating world, you’re probably confused as fuck about the program components. What do they mean? Where did they come from? Why are people complaining about the component marks for particular skaters? If you’re one of these people, this is the post for you.

After the judging fiasco that was the 2002 Winter Olympics, the ISU began measures to completely redo the judging system, which was the beginning of the end of the old 6.0 system that had long ruled over the sport. What emerged about a year later was what we know as the first iteration of the ISU Judging System; a new, open-ended scoring system where technical elements had base value points that were given bonuses/deductions for execution. Then the artistic impression mark was replaced what is known as program components: Skating Skills, Transitions, Performance, Composition, and Interpretation of the Music would be judged on a scale of 1-10, and combined to make a PC mark.

This post is going to be a very in-depth look at the program components. There have been many contentions to these marks in the past couple of seasons, so it’s paramount that, as fans, we educate ourselves so that we understand whether or not component marks actually make sense for a particular program or performance. 

Skating Skills

“Defined by overall cleanness and sureness, edge control and flow over the ice surface demonstrated by a command of the skating vocabulary (edges, turns, steps, etc.), the clarity of technique and the use of effortless power to accelerate and vary speed.” - ISU Handbook

Skating skills is the movement component. How well a skater moves across the ice and how they achieve speed and flow is fundamental to how a program is perceived. You could have amazing edges and multi-directional skating, but if you move slow as a snail, your skating skills could still use improvement, and your other submarks could be also affected (if you have judges who actually, ya know, judge).

If I had to point at any examples of skaters with skating skills, the one I immediately think of is Guillaume Cizeron (FRA). He moves across the ice effortlessly, and has such variety and beauty in every stroke and step. The Japanese skaters in general also embody everything that is good skating skills. Satoko Miyahara and Kaori Sakamoto are the two skaters that come to mind for me: they both have an amazing knee bend that allows them to dig into the ice and really create some powerful strokes. Then we have skaters like Alina Zagitova (RUS). She has some good skating qualities, but what sets her a little bit lower than, say, Sakamoto can be seen in their back crossovers: Kaori is so smooth when she does a back crossover, and can reach max speed without restricting the flow of her body (that’s where those good knees come in). But Alina’s crossovers are a lot more jagged in motion. Her feet move rather statically, and she tends to be high in the knee. This translates into her usage of her upper body in jumps, because she doesn’t get the natural spring into the air that a deeper knee bend could help with. 

Transitions

“The varied and purposeful use of intricate footwork, positions, movements and holds that link all elements.”

How do you connect the technical elements? Transitions is the mark that covers the in-between, “moves-in-the-field” (6.0 term) kinds of movements. The mark is based on variety and difficulty of movements before and after major elements. So, if a skater uses interesting entries and exits for all the jumps, or there is a seamless quality between all the elements, the Transitions mark should be high. There is also the opposite: a problem American singles skaters have is that they often “telegraph” their jumps, meaning that they will do close to no choreography and just hold a long edge before their jumps. Even if a choreographer gives them a program with built-in transitional content, you find that by the end of the season, these moments are often removed for the sake of the jumps.

This is the mark that I have the most issue with. Of all the criteria that the ISU gives for the transitions mark, the glaring omission is “movement that matches the music/phrasing”. Nowadays, transitional content is done for the mark, and there isn’t any care to really match it to the music (????). This is extremely evident in Eteri Turberidze’s skaters’ programs. Johnny Weir said about Alina Zagitova (RUS) at the 2018-19 GPF, “she’s been choreographed within an inch of her life.” And that’s why I hate her programs this year. The transitions and movements are distracting rather than enhancing or impressive. The movements are so crammed into the program, there is no time to breathe. An unfortunately, this is rewarded: Tutberidze skaters generally get a bump in the components scores, especially in this specific mark. There needs to be more relationship between the music and transitional content. The king of the transition mark is Yuzuru Hanyu (JPN). He is able to weave the elements into the program at any point, and there’s no telling when a jump or spin will begin. For example, watch his 2018 Olympics short program, and pay close attention to the triple axel. It comes out of a series of super hard steps capped off by a left-back-outside counter turn. The counter is one of the harder figures to use in front of a jump, and Yuzu does it with complete freedom.

Performance

“Involvement of the Skater/Pair/Couple physically, emotionally and intellectually as they deliver the intent of the music and composition.”

The mark that is easiest to understand at a base level, the Performance mark is about how the skater(s) perform on a specific competition and how they project past the board of the rink. How do they carry themselves on the ice? Are the movements clear, precise, and easy to read from the rafters? If it’s a pair or an Ice Dance team, are they in unison the whole way through? Do they move as one unit? These are contributing factors to how involved a performance is. Another key factor to this mark is audience response. Does the program illicit cheers, or leave an audience breathless and captivated? If there were skaters who are the complete rulers of the Performance mark, it’s Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir (CAN). They really move together, and engage the audience in a way that few skaters can. I personally believe Papadakis and Cizeron should have won the Olympics, but I can for sure see why Virtue and Moir came away with the gold: they knew how to draw the audience in, especially in the short dance. Javier Fernandez (ESP) also excelled in this particular component mark. He was the showman of the quadrennium, and was charming and engaging in any program he performed on competition ice.

Composition

“An intentionally developed and/or original arrangement of all types of movements according to the principles of musical phrase, space, pattern, and structure.”

This mark encompasses choreography. Does the movement presented cover the ice well? Are the patterns into and out of elements clean and interesting to watch? Is there a clear arc to the choreography? Is it original material? The last Olympic cycle was the catastrophe that was Backload City, Russia. A lot of Russian skaters began placing all their jumps in the second half of the program, which garnered a 10% bonus. As former ISU judge and co-creator of the Program Components Joe Inman put it, “the program is unbalanced.” Backloaded programs should have had reduced Composition marks in the previous system, which wasn’t the case. 

A good program composition evenly spreads out the technical elements, and reflects the personality of the skater. This season, my favorite program hands down is the short program from Satoko Miyahara. Known for her grace and subtleness on the ice, Lori Nichol did an absolutely amazing job bringing power to Satoko, while maintaining elegance, softness, and purity. It also helps that Satoko is one of the strongest skaters in the world in terms of pure skating skills: she is able to spin in both directions, which helps in both spins and step sequences, and is able to link very difficult steps together with ease. Every program she has done was full of variation and virtuosity.

Interpretation of the Music

“The personal, creative, and genuine translation of the rhythm, character and content of music to movement on ice.”

This component encompasses music and movement. If the other components slightly touched upon this important relationship, this final component mark has it in a stranglehold. There are some key things to think about here: does the movement match the pace of the music? Do the steps and strokes align with the emphasized beats/tempo of the music? Does the movement clearly express the emotion of the music? Does the skater match the program? This is another criticism of the Tutberidze camp. You could honestly take any Daniil G. choreography, mute the music, then put Yakkity Sax on, and the choreography would make just as much sense. The choreography is done for levels, not for presentation, which is what the components marks should be modeled for. 

  One of my favorite programs of recent years was Kaetlyn Osmond’s (CAN) 2017-18 short program to Edith Piaf songs. It’s sexy, age appropriate, and has a variety of beautiful movements that are tailored to the music. This season, though, has seen some great programs that use the music to enhance the skater’s qualities and strengths. Lim Eun-soo’s (KOR) short program this year is a complete stunner. Choreographer Jeffrey Buttle did a stellar job, interpreting the music of the movie Somewhere in Time, using it as a frame to make Eun-soo the consummate skater: powerful, yet delicate. Soft, yet strong. 

How [I think] The Components Relate to Each Other

A lot of what I’ve said so far seems like it overlaps. Sweetie, they were designed to overlap. If a skater doesn’t have a solid grasp on one component, chances are the other marks are questionable at best. The most obvious relationship is skating skills and transitions: without good skating skills, there is no chance in hell a skater can do interesting and varied transitional content. I keep on using Kaori Sakamoto as an example for skating skills/transitions, because she really is a skater who puts two and two together. Sonoko Nakano, her coach, makes her students practice figures like counters and rockers, so they understand how those steps function in their routines. The result is that Kaori has excellent knees, speed, and flow through almost any step. Take her entrance into her first triple-triple here. Only a few sweeping crossovers and some rockers and she is able to fly across the ice. Then there’s performance, composition, and interpretation of the music. They all convey the same thing: what is the program and what does the skater do it affect the audience? Let’s take a program like Virtue and Moir’s (CAN) Free Dance at the last Olympics: it’s a clear interpretation of Moulin Rouge with excellent carriage and a composition designed to bring the house down. That energy in Gangneung Ice Arena must have been so powerful. It leaps right off your TV screen and sucks you in. Even with a program like theirs, or something more nuanced and subtle like that of Gabriella Papadakis/Guilaume Cizeron (FRA), you can’t do them without good skating skills. Everything inevitably has to relate back to the skater’s athletic ability. If a skater cannot accomplish movement on the ice, the program is going to suffer indefinitely.

This analysis of the components is far from perfect. I’m not a trained skater myself, but I really wanted to understand as many of the steps and moves myself in order make sense of a lot of the programs. Hopefully this helps you learn more about the current judging system and why sometimes, fans will speak for or against certain marks that the judges give out.

[daresplaining]

Iron Fist Countdown: 10 Days

Ten Favorite Season 1 Scenes (In No Particular Order)

    It seems like only yesterday we were freaking out about Season 1, and now we are a mere ten days away from Iron Fist Season 2! Over on the Iron Fist blog one of us has been spending the month re-watching and breaking down, in-depth, the entirety of the first season. We’re not going to be nearly as thorough here, but we have managed to narrow down ten scenes we particularly love from one of our favorite superhero adaptations ever. 

Danny Receives a Diagnosis (“Shadow Hawk Takes Flight”)

    We wrote a whole post about this scene here, and another one on the Iron Fist blog, which just goes to show how much we love it. This scene exists at a pivot point in Danny’s identity quest, which is a central part of his narrative arc in this season. In the first few episodes his identity, and thus very personhood, are attacked by those around him. He finds himself on Earth with nothing, not even a name. Then, by the end of episode 2, Dr. Edmonds becomes convinced that Danny is who he says he is. In relief, Danny eagerly fills Edmonds in on the other half of his identity-- being the Iron Fist-- and inadvertently sabotages himself by convincing Edmonds that he’s delusional. It’s a wonderful scene for its character exploration elements, its dramatic irony, and its role as an oh-so-satifying set-up for Danny chi punching his way out of the hospital at the end of the episode. 

Danny Heals Colleen  (“The Mistress of All Agonies”)

    This was high on our wishlist for the show, and so we were thrilled, after nine episodes of Danny being injured/being around injured people, that he finally discovered his healing powers. The chi of Shou-Lao is really cool because it’s a power set with a huge range of applications. Even comics Danny is far from having learned everything he’s capable of. And like in the comics, Netflix Danny is missing key elements of his Iron Fist training, and thus has to learn through experience. And one thing he learns is that these powers are not merely destructive. By discovering his healing abilities he unlocks a new understanding of what it means to be the Iron Fist, and the fact that it’s Colleen he’s healing, plus the fact that it happens so late in the show, adds even more power to an already memorable moment. Plus, we’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: the chi of Shou-Lao special effects in this show are amazing. We could watch Danny do Iron Fist stuff all day. 

Danny Recharges His Chi (”Black Tiger Steals Heart”)

    In amid all of the action and trauma and general unpleasantness that takes place throughout the season, there are a few key moments of silence. The rapid-fire plot pauses, the world calms, and the characters and viewer are given a moment to take a breath. These peaceful, happy scenes add a pervasive positive energy to the season as a whole that feels unique and also perfect for this story. Danny learning how to recharge his chi in episode 10 is one such moment, and no matter how many times we watch this scene it never loses its impact. For a moment the world is bright and hopeful, and our heroes are at peace. It’s beautiful on its own, and it provides a powerful contrast with how horrible the situation becomes later in the episode.       

ORSON @#$%IN’ RANDALL! (”Black Tiger Steals Heart”)

    Any scene that makes us yell and leap out of our seats gets an automatic spot on lists like this. We were delighted when Danny referenced the Iron Fist legacy early in the season. We were excited by the idea of other Iron Fists possibly being mentioned, because that is a great element of the mythos. But we hadn’t dared to hope that we might actually see another Iron Fist-- especially Orson Randall, who is one of our favorites. Orson was Danny’s predecessor, and in the comics he was a bit of a mess. We don’t know much about him in this universe, but what’s amazing about this scene is that they somehow managed to perfectly characterize Orson without having him say a word. The blurry glimpses we have of the costume are perfect enough to make it obvious he’s him. And somehow, even the fighting style looks like him. We probably could have seen this clip out-of-context and still known it was Orson, which is awesome. And of course, this is a powerful moment for Danny as well. He gets to see another Iron Fist-- and the sight nearly brings him to tears. Heck, it nearly brought us to tears too.  

Colleen’s Second Cage Match (“Eight Diagram Dragon Palm”)

    We could have gone with her first cage match too, but this one has the benefit of an extra fighter and a snazzy hoodie. Colleen’s arc this season is one of self-discovery. She has trained for a long time and teaches martial arts, but she has also maintained a level of comfortable self-control. But then she discovers that being a little out-of-control holds its own appeal. The first time Colleen tries cage fighting she just goes for the money. But then she goes again, in spite of the shame she feels, not only for the money but because she enjoyed it. This second fight is a Colleen who is reveling in this newfound freedom and thrill, and it’s great fun to watch her just let loose and kick some butt.

Danny and Davos’s Big Escape (”Black Tiger Steals Heart”)

    A good fight should establish character, tell a story, and/or move the plot forward, in addition to being fun to watch. Danny and Davos beating the snot out of the entirety of Bakuto’s student body already makes this one of the most epic fights in any of the shows, but it has the added element of introducing Davos into the narrative. While we hear about Danny and Davos’s friendship in earlier episodes, their flawless teamwork and chemistry in this fight succinctly expresses just how close they are and how long they’ve been fighting together. This season did a phenomenal job of forging this friendship, which doesn’t exist in this form in the comics (616 Davos was best friends with Danny’s father instead) and this fight is the perfect embodiment of that dynamic. 

Ward Disposes of Some Bodies (“Felling Tree with Roots”)

    This season did a great job of taking Ward Meachum, a character with no redeeming qualities whatsoever, and making him at least somewhat sympathetic. This was done by blasting him with incessant trauma for thirteen episodes straight, sending him into a downward spiral of horrific proportions as he tries, and mostly fails, to deal with all of the horror in his life. This scene is particularly skin-crawling. Harold tasks Ward with disposing of some dead bodies. Ward obeys. We are then treated to a drawn-out scene of Ward alone in a parking garage in the middle of the night, trying not to freak out as he stuffs the bodies into his car. It is masterful psychological horror-- not the kind of thing you’d expect from an Iron Fist story, but excellently done.     

Zombie Harold (“The Mistress of All Agonies”)

    And speaking of psychological horror... Harold Meachum is another character who was brilliantly reinvented in this show. His inherently threatening nature, pure creepiness, domineering personality, and clever balance of humor and horror (he’s both the funniest and the creepiest character in the show) caused him to steal nearly every scene he was in. He could ratchet up the narrative tension just by entering a room. And he was just full of surprises. In contrast with his comics counterpart, who is creepily unhinged for a second and then dies after a single on-panel scene, MCU Harold is nearly impossible to kill. His second revival, after Ward stabs him and dumps him in a pond, is one of the most memorable scenes in the show, and it’s 100% Harold. It’s shocking. It’s horrifying. It’s kind of gross. It’s somehow also very funny. The creative minds for this season were not afraid to pull out all the stops and deliver some truly wild plot points, and that’s part of what makes this show so great.   

Danny Vs. Davos (“Bar the Big Boss”)

    We included Danny and Davos’s badass team-up, so we had to include the counterpoint, the bookend, which is just as powerful and hurts all the more because of the awesomeness of the team-up. This fight packs a punch in every possible way-- the combat is brutal, the cinematography is gorgeous, and the dialogue is absolutely heartwrenching. It is the perfect conclusion to the fracturing of Danny and Davos’s relationship that takes place over the course of the preceding episodes, and sets up all of the pain we’re in for with these two next season.    

"Come Down” (“Bar the Big Boss”)

    This is another of those characteristic feel-good scenes that make this season magical, in which our heroes are just allowed to exist together and enjoy each other’s company. Danny and Colleen have both been through combat and heartache and survived. The world is looking not quite as dark as it did the day before. And so they do forms to music together, and you can cut the chemistry with a knife. It’s fun and joyous, the kind of scene that gets stuck in your head, and a welcome respite before the final frantic build to the season’s climax.   

[theinquisitivej]

Review Variety Pack: Singers, Vampires, and Autopsies

When you write reviews, there are some weeks where there’s simply nothing on the schedule that grabs your interest or sparks any ideas that you feel compelled to write down. Then there are the times where you have the opposite problem, and you end up watching more than enough content to fill two or three articles, and you just don’t know what to pick. When this happens, I’m often torn between my desire to cover everything I see to produce more content and talk about as many different things with my readers as physically possible, and the practical limitation of only having so much time each week to properly go into extensive detail of what I’ve seen. Well, on this occasion, I thought I would try something a little different and take a quick look at a couple films and a TV series rather than dedicate an entire article to just one of them. Don’t worry, I’ll be back to the more in-depth format for my reviews soon enough. For now, this approach just allows me to catch up on some of the content I’ve been meaning to talk about, as well as point you all in the direction of a couple of items. There may even be one or two which have flown under the radar for you.

 ‘A Star is Born’

         Okay, so maybe not ALL of these are smaller projects that haven’t received a lot of media attention. But whatever – the deal with this movie is that Bradley Cooper decided to direct the latest in what has apparently been a long line of remakes and adaptations of the 1937 movie A Star is Born. Cooper plays a popular male singer who discovers a young woman with a talent for singing, played by Lady Gaga, who he wants to introduce to the world and drama ensues as they start a relationship and her fame keeps growing. I have no familiarity with the original or any of the other three remakes listed on Wikipedia, so take that for whatever it’s worth when I say I’m glad I saw this film.

         The 2018 A Star is Born seems to be made with the knowledge that the audience has likely heard this song before. Even if you’re like me and you haven’t seen any of the four previous versions of this film, the rise-to-stardom story is so well-established that it’s a safe bet that you’ll recognise many of the typical story beats of this kind of film. You see the future star’s humble origins, their soaring debut, their optimism for their bright future, them getting signed on for a record label and a soulless manager character entering the picture, their image having to be changed as they get pushed further into the public eye, someone close to them criticising them because they believe the star has lost their way, one of the characters taking a bad turn as it starts to feel like the star has lost all control of their life, and so on. It’s a story we know, but A Star is Born appears to be conscious of this fact. Towards the end of the film, there’s a conversation where a character reflects on how the same notes are repeated over and over between different songs. The character remarks that it’s in the different ways that people see those notes and interpret them through their music that new experiences are created.

         And I think that’s what this film does. The story may be similar to half a dozen other examples, but the execution is what engages. There’s a naturalistic direction to the film that you can see through the way characters talk over each other as they conduct their conversations, or the slight documentary-style to the cinematography, or the minimal use of non-diegetic music which makes the soundtrack seem as if it’s coming from the characters themselves as they sing and play throughout the story. This increases the sense of impact to some of the events within the story because the film is selling you on the impression that what you’re seeing is really happening. On top of that, Lady Gaga’s experience as a professional singer not only enables her to sing well throughout the film, but it also helps her to convey the emotions and thought processes being experienced by her character as she sings. She’s able to deliver a dramatic performance alongside her musical performance, and that’s compelling to watch.

         The 2018 version of A Star is Born is not telling a new story, but it manages to tell a familiar narrative in a way that manages to be distinctive and emotionally affecting. If any of the people involved make the film of interest to you, or if the mood takes you and you want to experience a decent version of this sort of rising-star story, then this version of A Star is Born is a decent pick. Now I just have to watch Bohemian Rhapsody and see if the other film about musical celebrities currently out in cinemas does as good a job at hitting its marks.

Final Score: Bronze / Silver

 ‘Castlevania’ Season 2

         Castlevania is one of those franchises that, on first inspection, appears to have a complicated history with dozens of instalments all coming together to form this grand tapestry telling the story of the war between Dracula, destined to reincarnate every 100 years, and the Belmonts, a family of vampire hunters that have dedicated their entire lineage to keeping Dracula and his forces of darkness at bay. And for fans who want to read into it, that expansive timeline is absolutely there, but on a very simple level, every Castlevania game more or less tells the same story. Dracula shows up along with his huge labyrinthine castle, and someone with a whip and a bunch of vampire-hunting equipment rocks up to kick him back into his coffin. Sometimes there are other characters along for the ride to make it slightly more complicated, but that’s the general gist. Also, there’s always some excellent music accompanying the proceedings.

         The first season of the Netflix animated series Castlevania adapted the story of the third game in the series. As it was only four 20-minute episodes, the first season is barely longer than a feature-length movie, and just as it finds its purpose and you feel like you’re getting into it, it ends. It wasn’t anything more than a semi-decent series, but I felt like there was potential when I watched it last year. The animation during the scenes where characters are simply talking to one another was stiff and you’d only see characters shift in place after a sentence or two, rather than exhibit more natural, flowing movement from moment-to-moment. But the action scenes were clearly where the animation budget went, as fights were creative and choreographed with a satisfying flair which showcased the animator’s passion for the source material. Performances were suitably brooding and at the right level between genuine human levels of emotion and melodramatic excessiveness, which is fitting for something Gothic and cheesy like this. At times the excessive gore and general revelling in shock-factor violence grated on me, and none of the characters really captured my interest or felt like I could get behind them until the second half of the last episode.

         Now Season 2 of Castlevania doesn’t fix all of my issues with the previous season, but I am very happy with some of the progress I’ve seen so far. I haven’t finished the season yet, as I’m six episodes in and have two left before I’m done, but I’ve seen enough to say that the extra time has benefitted the writers, allowing them to take the time to further explore characters and focus on conversations and interactions between the different members of the cast. The result is a more satisfying and complete-feeling season.

         Apart from that, my thoughts are more or less the same as the first season. I like their presentation of the series’ established Gothic aesthetic through the impressive backgrounds and character design. I enjoy seeing characters and references from the games and think the showrunners are doing a great job at translating the tone of the games to an ongoing TV series. The excessive gore is a little much at times, and not because I can’t handle it, but because it feels inelegant and unnecessary when they’re already doing such a good job at establishing a Gothic atmosphere. I am enjoying the characters more, even though the attempts at humour feel a little awkward (though I think that’s part of the intentional style of the series, so take that for what it’s worth). All in all, a solid series that has gotten better since last year, but still has several areas in which it could improve. If you enjoy the original games or are a fan of cheesy Gothic fantasy, then give it a watch.

Final Score: Copper / Bronze

 ‘The Autopsy of Jane Doe’

         Watching this 2016 horror movie from André Øvredal, the director of Trollhunter, was how I spent Halloween this year, and it was a night well spent. A father-son pair of coroners are given an unidentified body of a woman that was found on a crime scene and are tasked with finding a cause-of-death by morning so that the local sheriff can give a full statement on the matter. As they proceed with the autopsy, they find more and more things which don’t add up. There are signs of things happening to the body which don’t make scientific sense when you consider the body’s appearance, and to top it off, there’s an uneasy atmosphere around the office as things just don’t feel right. And from there, I’ll keep you in the dark, as one of the most enjoyable elements to watching this film for the first time is trying to work out what’s going on alongside the two main characters as they dig further into this mystery.

         The Autopsy of Jane Doe got under my skin because it taps into the uneasiness you often feel when you’re stuck in an office or medical building late at night and you’re one of the only people remaining. It makes effective use of space to create a suffocating feeling to the autopsy room and the one or two other spaces our characters find themselves in as the film goes on. The use of the right-angled corridor to create suspense as you fear what might come around the corner is commendable. Both of the two main actors, Brian Cox as the father and Emile Hirsch as the son, work well in their roles, selling you on their close, familial relationship as well as the fact that they are professional coroners, so they know what to do and how to handle their nerves around a dead body, but they’re also human enough to get a little uneasy when things start looking weird.

         As I touched on earlier, I was really drawn in by the set-up to The Autopsy of Jane Doe, fascinated to learn more as conflicting pieces of information are revealed to both the characters and the audience. It’s an exciting sensation that I think is unique to horror; it’s the human urge to find out more even when all signs are telling you that you should stop delving into this unsettling area. You have to know the truth and understand what’s going on, even when it takes you to deadly territory. It’s such a recurring feeling that I experience when watching horror, as well as see in the motivations of the characters within horror narratives, that I consider the horror and mystery genres to be close relatives. The Autopsy of Jane Doe is dripping with that sense of horrific mystery as it centres on an autopsy, a procedure that is done when you want to find out the truth behind something but is also inherently unsettling as you are staring face-to-face at death, in all its detail.

         This horror movie has a great premise which is executed with impressive technical ability by its actors, cinematographer, and director (even if it leans on the jump-scare tactic a little too much). For those who like their horror with an air of mystery, then this is a hard recommend.

Final Score: Silver

[franklyshipping]

Happy New Year ~ An Ego Fanfiction

Word Count: 28, 758

Characters:….fuckin….everyone.

SFW. With romantic, platonic, and familial relationships…..and of course, tickling.

———————————————————————————————————–

This is to wish everybody out there, a happy new year. I love you all.

Now…..where to begin. A place of warmth I think, to introduce you to our tale. This is to be an observation of a family on New Year’s Eve. A rather obscure family, I grant you, who have certainly had their many ups and downs; but a true family gets through it all, which they have. There are multiple scenes and scenarios and events to occur this evening so I advise you to be patient and take your time as you, like me, observe them and see them unfold in all their beauty. Ah, I think the first is about to occur…..walk with me.

They have the loveliest living space, split into three to make the whole ground space seem more homely and connected; I think it works. Here we are at the west side, I think it would be characterised as “the main living area”. The floor is a beautifully plain and simple white tile, and it's like this because of how this household has a particular preference for its bold and unique furnishings; most likely to adhere to the styles of its inhabitants. It’s a nice sentiment, since I think we both know how…..unsavoury, other households can be. At first glance though you may think me a liar, since the two couches here are rather plain in themselves as they rest in light beiges and browns; their cushions were of similarly gentle hues, being light blues and yellows. These dim palettes were necessary however, due to the vivacity of those who resided and nestled in their warm havens.

For instance, sat together on the beige and yellow furnishings were two esteemed gentlemen. Dr Iplier and the Host. The couple were contently nestled, leaning gently upon one another. The latter hummed a gentle melody, which soothed and swept through the gentle chatter that was all around them, whilst the former listened and lazily inspected the sandwich that he held. The doctor was still feeling inherently festive, thus meaning that his article of nourishment had copious amounts of turkey scraps, as well as a light relish. It also happened to be his third of the evening, but he didn’t really care; he was bold like that.

Perpendicular to that gentle sight lay another, in quite a literal sense now that I think about it. A magician and his enhanced companion. This particular couple were rather more……strewn, than neatly nestled, but were still perfectly content. Marvin was half-upright at one end of their couch, his legs lay across the extent of the furniture, all the while Jackie-Boy Man was…..on top of him. He was on his back, lying on his magician’s legs as his head rested in said man’s lap; neither man could complain however. The hero was smiling with relaxed joy since Marvin had decided to nestle his hands in his hair, and was constantly carding through the locks and massaging his scalp with a beautiful gentleness. Marvin, too, was in heaven. The feeling of Jackie’s hair was smooth and calming between his fingers, and the close proximity that they shared made Marvin sigh and hum; he could feeling his chest and general core getting warmer with every passing second.

However, this was not all. For in Marvin’s other hand, he held a sandwich that was practically identical to that of the doctor’s; they both had truly excellent festive tastes. Marvin was so convinced of this fact, that he couldn’t help but ramble about it to the man in his lap; having copious amounts of food and beverages that your body and mind aren’t used to, can often lead to such rambly giddiness. Not that Jackie minded, quite the opposite really.

‘You just can’t beat it, it is THE most festive choice of food that you could possibly get! You’d think turkey sandwiches would only appear in brand ads or cheesy seasonal movies, but no! They actually happen! Isn’t it awesome?’

Jackie couldn’t keep the smile off his face at the entire situation. His boyfriend. His intelligent, sane, and magically gifted boyfriend…..was ranting about his love for a sandwich. A…..goddamn…..sandwich. Only on the eve of a fresh year could such randomness have been brought to the surface.

‘Oh yeah, it’s totally awesome!’

Jackie grinned as Marvin smiled happily at his agreement and enthusiasm, and Jackie couldn’t help but feel joyful at how excited Marvin was at such a small thing. Whenever Marvin was happy, so was Jackie; now, it could just be coincidental couple-y instinct….but on New Year’s Eve, I don’t think you can deny the magic in the air. Suddenly however, Marvin furrowed his eyebrows with a small gasp.

‘Wait! You haven’t even tried one before!’

…..they had never even touched on this kind of topic of conversation before, so Jackie wasn’t even going to question how Marvin knew this; he put it down to voodoo. He smiled up at Marvin with a minute shrug.

‘Mmm….it’s not THAT important though….’

Marvin let out another gasp. Whether it was genuine, or had the intent of being comical, it still made Jackie let out a few gentle giggles. Marvin’s mouth was agape and his eyebrows had risen so much that they had actually risen above the edge of his mask, a truly rare occurrence; Jackie’s grin was wide as Marvin spoke with heavy indignance.

‘Of COURSE it’s that important! It’s the lifeblood of our festive culture!’

Jackie raised an eyebrow.

‘The lifeblood of our festive culture…..is a sandwich?’

Jackie was trying to repress more intense fits of giggles from erupting as Marvin nodded, with intense vigour and enthusiasm might I add.

'Yes! Look, just try it and I guarantee that you will be enlightened…..’

Marvin’s hand suddenly shifted as it hovered the sandwich right above Jackie’s head, which made the latter giggle wholeheartedly as he shook his head with a wide smile.

'Ihi don’t want toho be enlightened by aha sandwihich!’

Jackie immediately started to try and push Marvin’s sandwich bearing hand away, but the magician was determined. He grinned at Jackie’s attempts to bat him away as he kept trying to lower the sandwich towards his face.

'Accept your fate hero!’

Jackie felt his cheeks pinken at the nickname as he continued shaking his head, continuing to try and resist his boyfriend’s goofy attempts to feed him.

'Neheheveeeeer!’

Jackie donned his heroic demeanour as he and Marvin batted at one another playfully, whilst also get progressively more covered in breadcrumbs; oops. well at least they could wait until next year before they had to hoover it…..ahem. Whilst that tussle was occurring however, it seems that so was another; except this tussle was more of a verbal spar. If we return to the second couch in the room we would happen across Dr Iplier, an esteemed medical professional with a multitude of PhD’s…..administering “puppy eyes”. Because he too had undertaken the difficult task of convincing his significant other…..to partake in the consumption of a turkey sandwich. The doctor was well practised when it came to convincing the Host…..primarily because he elected to try and be as cute and adorable as he possibly could without embarrassing himself.

'Pleeeeeease? Just one little bite?’

The Host’s lips were twitching in an effort not to smile at Iplier’s utter childishness and silliness. The Host knew how petty and silly it all was, and yet he couldn’t help but love it when Iplier made it his mission to try and convince him to do something. It mean that the Host could bask in the doctor’s unmatched cuteness.

'The doctor’s attempts at “puppy eyes” do not sway the Host’s opinion.’

Iplier pouted, meaning that the Host had to repress a small chuckle as he mentally sighed; what on earth did he do to deserve this stunning man in his life? Iplier was inching closer to him and had decided to rest his chin on the Host’s shoulder as he gazed at him with an innocent, longing expression.

'Pleeeease? I might cry if you don’t…..’

The Host had to nibble his lip to stop a giggle coming forth as Iplier trailed off with a tone of moroseness, his eyes were actually glazing a little…..but internally, Iplier was fighting the urge to stop his façade and just smush the sandwich into the Host’s face there and then. But Iplier figured that the Host wouldn’t thank him for that, so he refrained. Iplier looked at the Host hopefully as said man turned his head towards him with a small smile.

'The doctor’s tears would only end up hindering his stunning complexion…..’

Iplier felt his cheeks heating up……goddammit with the Host and his smooth talking compliments;…..oh who was he kidding, Iplier loved them. He deepened his pout though, leaning into the Host more as he softened his voice.

'I might cry on everything you hold most dear….’

Iplier thought for a moment that he’d struck gold when the Host turned to him fully, but the man only smiled wider with a hint of mischief as he uttered.

'The doctor would only then be crying on himself.’

Iplier blushed. And I mean he properly blushed, his cheeks only got redder and redder as the Host let his triumphant grin roam free; I think it was relatively safe to say that he was pleased with himself.

'You sir…..do not play fair.’

The Host chuckled at the doctor’s faked tone of seriousness and dejectedness, whilst Iplier himself let out a little huff of air as his eyes scanned his boyfriend’s acute smugness.

'The Host never does, darling.’

The Host was wholly prideful, completely under the impression that he had been victorious since he sensed that Iplier’s mind had begun to wander. The doctor let his gaze flick round, glancing to the ground near him where the one and only Robbie was sat; the zombie was happily playing with some turkey bones…..at least, Iplier assumed that’s where they’d originated. He was about to voice his curiosity, when a sudden frantic voice cut through the air; it very nearly made him jump.

'Waitwaitwait NOHO! Thahat’s nahahat fahahair!’

Iplier perked up at the sound of Jackie’s frantic pleas, and he felt a fond smile develop as he witnessed the sight of Marvin using one of his hands to scratch over the hero’s belly with the most tickly intentions. His other hand was elevated, and purposefully grasping his sandwich as Marvin kept trying to inch it closer to Jackie’s face. Said man was conflicted between stopping the edible onslaught, and stopping the onslaught at his tummy; as a result, his hands were batting out randomly as he spluttered and cackled.

'MAHAHAHARVY PLEHEHEHEASE! DOHOHON’T DOHOHO IHIHIT!!’

Iplier chuckled when he saw Marvin smirk and cock his head, the determination and mischief seemed to just eradiate from him…..and the doctor could almost feel those emotions beginning to bubble up in himself too. All the while the magician cooed.

'Awwww, is da ickle hero too tickliiiiish? Maaaaybe if he surrendered, he wouldn’t have to go through this VILLAINOUS torture…..’

Jackie squealed as Marvin’s hand roamed more, reaching further up his torso to pinch and prod at his ribcage. This ended up bringing forth a few rather loud snorts, thus making Jackie-Boy Man’s cheeks heat up to practically match his own licra get-up.

'YOHOHOU’RE AHA MEHEHEHANIHIE!!’

Jackie wailed as he tried clamping his arms down to deflect Marvin’s evil rib scratches, but it did nothing to hinder the magician’s efforts; Marvin narrowed his eyes behind his mask as he donned a sudden gleam of intimidation.

'First you reject my sandwich, and now you have the audacity to insult me? Oh you are so asking for it….’

Jackie’s eyes widened as Marvin’s attacking hand suddenly shot up to reach his neck and ears…..and the poor hero was lost. He was a squeaky, snorting, hysterical mess as Marvin’s fingertips teased behind his ears and down the sides of his unprotected neck. Iplier, who was still only observing, scrunched his own shoulders in empathy as shrill laughter penetrated the air.

'NAHAHAHAHAHA!! NAHAHAHAT THEHEHEHEHERE!!!’

Marvin was having the time of his life, his smile was wide and evil and…..frankly, magnificent. It was one of his favourite hobbies to reduce poor Jackie to a blushing, blubbering mess; he could never resist the temptation.

'Poor heroooo…..so ticklish and completely at my mercy….’

As Marvin teased, Iplier suddenly felt something. Not just a shiver of empathy, but also a small light-bulb moment; a moment…..of inspiration. He looked to the other couple for a few more moments more, before turning back and fixing his gaze upon the Host. Said man had also been observing the scene with heavy empathy for Jackie, but at Iplier’s very sudden attention switch, he tensed. The Host hoped to god that Iplier wasn’t planning what he thought he was planning.

'Why so tense sweetheart?’

Butterflies rose in the Host’s tummy at Iplier’s innocent query; oh no. The Host could feel the mischief and utter giddiness swooping from Iplier in waves, and he only tensed more as he replied.

Th-the Host hadn’t realised he had b-been tense……’

Iplier grinned gradually. He knew that the Host knew what was in store for him……and the doctor loved how that foreknowledge flustered the crap out of him, and he hadn’t even had to lift a finger. Yet.

'Aw babe, maybe a snack will help you relax?’

The pair of them had to bite back sniggers as Iplier maintained his innocent façade, all the while the Host was trying to think of something…..anything he could say that would dissuade the doctor from his new goal. He could think of nothing, so he settled for weak protesting; at least it would allow him to mentally prepare…..somewhat.

'The Host doubts that very much…..’

Iplier grinned wider as he shuffled and sat up on the couch……sandwich in one hand, whilst the other was already twitching and itching to get to work.

'Well, I’m a doctor…..I know what’s best. So either, you can accept my treatment offer, or I may have to resort to alternative methods.’

The Host gulped a little, and flinched when Iplier’s spare hand started to walk itself over his shirt covered tummy. Iplier’s fingers were delicate and almost exploratory, as their owner gazed at the Host with an expectant expression. the Host inhaled, before mumbling.

'Th-the Host w-wihill not accept y-yohour treatment.’

There was a brief moment of silence between them, before Iplier’s fingers suddenly curled over the Host’s belly; just as Iplier’s lips curled into a devious smirk.

'Oh….we’ll see about that.’

The Host was immediately encased in giggles as he tried to squirm away from Iplier’s deviously gentle attack. His fingers had decided to roam and skitter underneath the Host’s shirt so that they could tease his wonderfully sensitive tummy and waistline; the Host cheeks by this point also held a gentle, rosy hue.

'Th-thihihis ihisn’t aha cehertifihied medicahal treheheheatmehent!!’

The Host squeaked as his hands rushed to cover his face, which was pure adorableness in itself since this reflected how he in fact made no move to stop his devious doctor. Iplier let himself relax as his fingers scratched and scraped, and he relished in the giggles and flinches and little bucks that he drew out. The doctor also took the opportunity to don a serious, and intimidating façade of his own; I did say he’d been inspired.

'I hope you’re not questioning my credibility as a doctor…..that would be incredibly unwise….’

The Host’s cheeks continued to burn as he shivered at Iplier’s words, all the while he still wriggled and let out a train of squeaky giggles that showed no sign of dying down.

'B-buhuhuhut ihihit’s nahahat aha treheatmehent!! Ihihi ohonly speheheak the truhuhuth!!’

The Host tried to insist with a shred of seriousness, but he only succeeded in whining giddily as he tried to keep breathing steady……but let’s face it, he was completely gone by this point. His switched speech perspective only cemented that fact. Iplier though…..he was feeling far more determined. He shifted his body so that he was lying on his front on the Host’s legs so his head was above his belly; Iplier’s hand stayed nestled under his shirt so he could keep his boyfriend in his stunning giggle fit.

'Oh Host……oh my sweet, sweet Host.’

Iplier’s delicate muttering kept the Host on edge as he nibbled his lip and tried to perceive what was going to happen…..but he had no focus; to be fair though, in this particular scenario the Host found that he preferred it that way. Iplier smiled widely.

'First, you reject my treatment…..and now you have the utter gall to disrespect my medical position? You are so in for it…..’

Iplier’s tone shifted to that of a deep growl as his words trailed off, making the Host whimper and shake his head as he smiled widely and nervously. Because now, Iplier’s previously tickling hand had moved so that it could force the Host’s shirt up so that the majority of the Host’s torso was exposed.Iplier took a moment to observe the Host’s belly, rising and falling with his jittery breaths, but Iplier soon refocused as he rested his roughly stubbled chin upon it. There was a pause…….before Iplier smirked and leant down to begin roughly nuzzling aaaall over every piece of exposed skin he could reach.

'NAHAHAHAHAHA!! NOHOHOHO NUHUHUZZLIHING!!’

Iplier chuckled satisfactorily at the Host’s reaction, both he and the Host knew how ticklish his torso could be……especially when it was subjected to the doctor’s rough, scratchy stubble. Iplier tutted with a smirk.

'You know you’ve only brought this on yourself……god what an adoooorable ticklish thing you aaaare!’

Iplier cooed as he purposefully brushed over the Host’s navel, which earnt him snorts and bucks galore as the Host’s cheeks burned with his embarrassment.

'NAHAHAHA!! AHA SAHANDWIHICH DOHOESN’T WARRAHANT THIHIS TOHORTUHUHURE!!’

The Host gasped for air amidst his laughter as he bucked and wriggled, his voice many octaves higher than usual which was just so precious in itself. I must say……in that moment the room was alive. The Host’s laughter seemed to mix with Jackie’s squealing hysteria in a unique way, in a way that you could say made them compliment one another; in a rather frantic, and desperate melody. It was clear to see that they were both close to giving in to their tormentors, then again, we all knew that that was an inevitability. Both Iplier and Marvin could see it. Iplier chuckled gently amidst his intense nuzzling whilst also including a few cheeky nibbles into his torturous mix.

'Torture? Wow, I must have really underestimated how ticklish you are…..’

Iplier trailed off as he purred and decided to nibble and nip sloppily at the flesh, which made the Host cry out and wail desperately.

'AHHHHHHH NAHAHAT THAHAHAT!!!’

The Host shrieked, making Iplier pause for a moment. The doctor was almost euphoric with feelings of mischief that coursed through him, but he was still a good man at heart. He took a moment to glance over to their neighbours, and smiled at the sight of Jackie’s red-faced hysteria; caused only by a few flutters and squeezes at his collar bones…….hm, interesting spot. The doctor turned back to the Host, with a wide grin on his face as he spoke.

'You seem quite desperate darling……so let me offer you, a choice.’

The Host gulped as he continued to grin nervously, Iplier’s pause certainly made the whole anticipatory aspect worse. Iplier smirked at his silence, so he filled it.

'Either you eat some of this sandwich…..or I eat you.’

The Host’s breath got caught in his throat at Iplier’s words, and a sharp chill went down his spine as said man grinned ferally and began to inch closer and closer toedge of the Host’s navel. Now the Host was a strong individual, make no mistake…..but even he had limits.

'O-ohokay okay! J-juhust don’t do it, I-I’ll dihie!’

There was a moment of silence before Iplier let out a train of light chuckles, and he reared up and away from the Host’s torso so he could lean and peck him on the lips.

'For once, I can definately say that that won’t happen.’

The Host let out a few tittery giggles as he began to catch his breath and sink into the couch, all the while a certain hero was close to finally conceding himself. Poor Jackie. Such an unorthodox place to be sensitive, the collar and shoulders. Every squeeze and pinch sent shocks and jumps through his neck and ears whilst his spine tingled constantly. His shoulders were scrunched, but the rest of him seemed to be frozen as he threw his head back in wild mirth.

'PLEHEHEHEASE!!! MAHAHAHARVY!!!’

Marvin couldn’t help but feel a bit bad, despite how much fun he was having. The magician still however, couldn’t believe his luck at the discovery of this new, and deliciously sensitive, spot on his boyfriend’s body. He couldn’t wait to exploit it in the future, because he knew that now……this beautiful venture was coming to a close.

'Come on baby, you know what I wanna heeeear!’

Marvin sing-songed…..and at last, the great Jackie-Boy Man had to cave in, before he completely lost his sanity.

'OHOHOHOKAHAHAY!!! IHIHI’LL EHEHEHEHEA-!!!’

His voice cracked as he fell into silent laughter, his face was red and tears were threatening to escape his shining eyes as he thrashed beneath Marvin. Said man immediatly withdrew his hand, observing for a few moments before whispering in a soft tone. The fact that Jackie hadn’t even managed to finish his statement made Marvin worry about whether he’d gone too far.

'Are…….are you okay?’

Marvin gazed at Jackie tentatively as the latter gasped for air as he too gazed at the other, but a large smile stayed plastered on his lips as he gave a weak thumbs up.

'Ohof course……Ihi’m a superhero!’

Marvin giggled as Jackie grinned enthusiastically, and without another word Marvin refocused on the sandwich that he, miraculously, still held. He tore off a small chuck and went to put it in Jackie’s mouth; yes, he was going to feed his boyfriend food, it’s romantic and beautifully soppy so deal with it. Jackie certainly didn’t complain as he ate, he needed to replenish his energy somehow; and the sandwich actually tasted pretty damn good. The Host’s need was similar, he needed energy so that he could refocus his mind……so it made sense for Iplier to feed him too, rather than him feeding himself. It was a rather uniquely synced scene. After a few minutes, both the Host and Jackie were back to their old selves and even shared a nod between each other; they had both suffered, and been rewarded. Marvin and Iplier shared a smirk too, they’d both been victorious. The whole thing was about to return back to normal……until the Host felt something strong. An emotion. An emotion of……dejectedness, and sadness. It was at that point that the Host remembered. Robbie.

'Hey…..babe are you okay?’

The Host faced his doctor at the sound of his caring words, and Marvin and Jackie both diverted their attentions to the Host too. Mild curiosity encompassed them as the Host took a light breath and mumbled.

’……Robbie.’

———————————————————————————————————–

The four of them suddenly turned to look at the space before them, where the small zombie sat cross-legged on his striped rug of alternating purples. His head had shot up at the sound of his name, and then he proceeded to shrink down a bit as he felt everyone’s attention on him. The poor boy was a little nervous……and indeed, dejected. He loved that his friends were happy, he loved it so much because that he was always surrounded by love and happiness and pure, joyous commitment. And yet…..he was never really part of that love, so it sometimes left him wondering whether people had any kind of love for him at all. Robbie nibbled his lip as he hugged his knees to his chest, eyes flicking between the four men as he mumbled.

’…….why is everyone staring at Robbie?’

His small voice seemed to pirouette through the room, holding tones of nervousness and innocent, curious abandonment. Iplier, Jackie and Marvin stayed silent as they looked to the Host, thus encouraging Robbie to do the same as said man tilted his head.

'The Host perceives that Robbie……feels left out…..’

The Host was deciphering his perceptions carefully, whilst Robbie hastened to shake his head and offer a weak smile.

'No no! Robbie is happy and fine! Robbie is not left out of anything!’

He convinced no-one, and the attention reverted back to the Host as he muttered, sighing as little bubbles of fondness fizzled in his chest.

'Robbie thinks that, because we are in love with one another……we don’t have enough love for him.’

The other three let out little, sad individual gasps as Robbie hastily looked to the floor whilst nibbling his lip, his grey fingers fiddling with one another gently. It felt strange to hear his own thoughts and feelings being spoken aloud by someone else……and the Host was about to say something more until Iplier lightly touched his forearm. The doctor gave him a glance which caused the Host to close his mouth slowly, a small understanding smile rising up as Iplier withdrew from him. The doctor slid from their couch onto the ground, and slowly shuffled towards Robbie until he was sat next to him; Iplier was cross-legged on the rug as he peered at him with gentleness in his demeanour.

'Robbie, we may be in love with each other, but that doesn’t mean we don’t love you.’

Robbie knawed on his lip as he tried to process Iplier’s words, and yet the poor guy still couldn’t seem to get his head around it.

'But……Robbie doesn’t understand? If Doctor Ippy and Marvy give all their love to Hosty and Jackie…..then they won’t have any more for Robbie.’

Iplier felt his heart melt at the words, the poor guy still didn’t understand. The doctor tried to rack his brains, and was about to try and explain it in a relatively simple way, but then another voice joined the fray.

'Hey Robbie……no-one ever really runs out of love. Love is more of a feeling, and it isn’t really something that can be made into an amount.’

Iplier felt himself smile as he saw that Marvin had also decided to shuffle forth, and was sat half-hugging his knees at Robbie’s other side. Iplier decided to let the magician do the talking…..the doctor figured that Marvin had the scenario solved. Robbie had already perked up by a small fraction, and his head was tilted slightly in Marvin’s direction and you could see a small shine behind his eyes; his brain was working hard……and understanding.

'So……everyone always has enough?’

Robbie’s voice was still a little quiet, but Marvin could see that Robbie was really trying here……and was close to succeeding. The magician smiled gently, his hazel eyes glinting softly as he kept his voice low and clear.

'Mhm. Always. Yes…..I do love Jackie with all my heart and I’m pretty sure that the doc does with the Host-…..’

Iplier smiled widely,and let out a small chuckle when he saw the Host’s cheeks go a little pink; as did the neighbouring hero’s, even though his eyelids were beginning to droop.

’-but, that’s a different type of love, so you never have to worry about us not loving you. The love we have for you is unique, because it’s for you.’

Marvin couldn’t help but feel ever so slightly pleased with himself, not only had he caused a genuine smile of joy to rise on Robbie’s lips…..but he’d in fact managed to cause it in the most poetic way possible. Marvin grinned as Robbie looked up to him fully, eyes bright and voice jittery with the force of his happiness.

'Do you really love Robbie? Like really really with honesty?!’

Marvin grinned wider as Iplier chuckled, and Robbie turned to him upon hearing the sound; Iplier smile fondly as he stated.

'Of course we do! You’re too adorable not to love!’

Iplier decided to sneakily flutter his fingers under Robbie’s chin, and felt his heart melt more when the zombie squeaked and let out a few gentle giggles. Also, even though Marvin only observed…..his heart melted too.

'Noho tihihickles doccy!’

Robbie said with a wide smile as he scrunched his shoulders and gently batted at Iplier’s hands, all the while Iplier and Marvin shared a brief glance; it only lasted for a few seconds but it held a very important, and mischievous, conversation. Iplier looked back to Robbie with a sly smile.

'But why not? We wanna hear more of your cute giggles!’

Iplier wiggled his fingers teasingly in the air as Robbie continued to giggle, whilst ever so slowly inching away from where the doctor was sat. Luckily though, Marvin was on hand to hinder any escape attempts; Robbie jumped when Marvin suddenly shuffled behind him.

'You’re not trying to escape are you?’

Marvin whispered as he gently wrapped his arms around Robbie’s torso, which made him squeak rather adorably; Marvin manoeuvred so that he could gently move Robbie so that he lay on the floor with his head in the magician’s lap. All the while, the zombie was looking up at Marvin with wide, nervous eyes as he squeaked.

'R-Robbie is too ticklish! H-he has t-to get away!’

Marvin’s grin morphed into a gentle smirk as he delicately held Robbie’s forearms as he struggled…..but he knew that there was no escape. Iplier smiled widely at the pair of them, but particularly at Robbie whose innocence and undimmed cuteness was still a constant wonder to behold. The doctor raised a teasing eyebrow as he got on his knees, leaning over with an air of intimidation as he went to perch on Robbie’s shins.

'Awww, “too ticklish” are we? Oh you poor thing…..’

Robbie’s smile widened as he shivered, watching Iplier with nervous curiosity….but his squeaky giggles bubbled up again as he felt Marvin raise his arms above his head, and the magician smirked widely as Iplier resumed wiggling his fingers in the air.

'Noho noooo n-not fair fahair on Robbie! Nohot fair!’

Robbie could feel the anticipation building, especially when Marvin’s teasy whispers reached his ears.

'Uh ohhhh, they’re getting closeeer…..they’re coming to get yoooou…..’

Robbie giggled harder as his gaze became fixed on Iplier’s fingers, the owner of which just couldn’t resist the temptation any longer. His hands shot forth to scratch and flutter in Robbie’s hollows, and the reaction was beyond perfect.

'NAHAHAHA IHIT’S SOHO TIHIHIHICKLY!!’

Robbie’s laughter was high-pitched, raspy as well as bubbly as it flowed from him, all the while he started to toss his head; he really hadn’t been kidding about his sensitivity.

'Awwwww what a ticklish little zombie you are!’

Iplier commented, which caused an embarrassed whine to come forth as the zombie hastened to look away from the doctor; he didn’t know how, but the teasing just seemed to make Robbie feel even more ticklish! Marvin meanwhile grinned as he observed, keeping his grasp on Robbie’s arms as he looked down at him.

'It’s “so tickly” is it? Well we never would have figured that out!’

Marvin smirked when Iplier let out a spluttered laugh of his own before rolling his eyes and refocusing. His fingers now trailed, and occasionally prodded, up and down Robbie’s sides which earned them even more brilliant responses. 

'Nahahaha noho pohokihies! Pohohokihies ahare bahahad!!’

Robbie yipped and flinched and jumped at Iplier’s sporadic, unpredictable movements, all the while gentle tinges of lilac appeared on his cheeks. Iplier grinned as he kept up that particular method, glancing at Marvin who smirked and leant down to whisper in Robbie’s ear.

'Awww do da ickle pokies tickle? Are they tickly? Coochie coochie coooo……’

Marvin purposefully cooed in the most childish tone that he could muster, and his efforts were definitely rewarded when the lilac on Robbie’s cheeks got darker and darker with every passing moment. Robbie scrunched his shoulders as he giggled frantically, Marvin’s mere whispers giving him chills and sending tickly shivers through his system.

'Ihihihit tihihihihickles sohohoho bahadly!! Yohohohou’re bohohoth meheheanihihies!!’

Robbie wailed with a small squeal, which only made Marvin and Iplier smirk at each other; god this was way too much fun.

'Oh if you think this is mean, you are in for a biiiiiiig surprise…..’

Iplier chuckled darkly as he sent Robbie a feral grin, all the while his fingertips moved downwards so as to tease Robbie’s delicate waistline and hips; the poor guy was cackling a bucking within milliseconds.

'NAHHHHH! ROHOHOHOBBIHIE DOHOESN’T DEHESEHEHEHERVE MEHEHEAN THIHIHINGS!!’

Robbie wailed as he writhed about, looking up with intense hopefulness at Marvin, who did have to admit that his pleading expression almost swayed him. Almost, that is. Marvin grinned as he locked eyes with Robbie, and as Iplier rubbed and massaged the bowels of Robbie’s hips, the magician spoke teasingly.

'It’s not mean if you’re enjoying every second of it.’

Robbie’s eyes widened as his cheeks darkened to the most stunning violet, all the while he cackled and bucked at Iplier’s torture. Said man’s smirk had widened at Marvin’s words, he looked to the magician with hints of amusement in his eyes.

'Well pointed out Marvin.’

Marvin snickered at Iplier’s tone as Robbie continued to screech and shake beneath them due to the maliciousness that Iplier was still bestowing on his poor hips.

'DOHOHOHON’T POHOHOHOINT OHOHOHOUT!! PLEHEHEHEHEASE!!!’

The pair of smirking gentlemen looked down upon their victim as they chuckled gently, Iplier deciding to let up on his hips and just administer lazy, absent pokes to Robbie’s thighs. This kept him encased in squeaky giggles as Marvin taunted in his evil baby voice.

'Awwww why not? Does it make da ickle zombie all embawaaassed?' 

Robbie let out a flustered whine as his violet cheeks shone out like beacons of pure, undead mirth.

'Yeheheheheeees! Rohohobbihie cahan’t tahake ahanymohohore!!’

Marvin smiled down at the giggly man, internally rejoicing at how they’d succeeded in getting rid of any kind of moroseness that might have been festering. It was better than any spell Marvin knew, and it was better than any vaccine that Iplier knew of. The doctor grinned as he relented his poking and shuffled off Robbie’s legs, thus allowing the zombie to curl up as he recovered with his hearty blush.

'Hmm…..we’ll have mercy on you for now…..’

Iplier sent him a sly grin which made Robbie shiver and giggle again, which only melted the doctor’s already liquefied heart even more. Iplier watched as Marvin slung an arm round Robbie’s shoulders, smiling at him widely as he half-embraced him.

'Not feelin’ left out anymore zomboy?’

Robbie giggled at the nickname, before looking to the magician with wide and happy eyes as he replied with a bubbly voice.

'Rohobbie is the opposite of left out! He is….’

Robbie furrowed his eyebrows as Marvin and Iplier waited fir his words with a light curiosity; soon he grinned and clapped his hands together.

'Right in!’

As the zombie giggled Marvin and Iplier shared a glance of mutual agreement. This is the cutest person in existence. End of. The doctor raised an eyebrow as he mumbled.

'Well you can’t argue with that.’

Marvin snickered, and was about to say something more until out of the corner of his eye he spotted that Robbie had let out a yawn; his eyes were dropping more than normal, which showed that he was moments away from dropping off into slumber.

Hey Robbie, do you want us to take you to bed?’

Robbie lazily shook his head as he slowly decided to lie back down on the soft, thick warm rug; he mumbled lightly.

'Nuh uh, Robbie dun wanna miss new days…..’

Iplier and Marvin smiled fondly as Iplier swept some of the zombie’s unruly fringe from his face, whilst speaking in a low, melodious tone.

'Don’t worry, we’ll make sure you don’t miss it.’

It seemed that that was all that Robbie needed to hear, because after he smiled and let out a happy hum…..he just went out like a light. Marvin was impressed, and so was Iplier; but there were quite a few hints of envy mixed in.

'God….to be able to drop off like that….’

Iplier muttered, which made Marvin smile and gently mumble in response.

'Oh to be young, and not feel insomnia’s keen sting.’

Iplier withheld a light snigger as Marvin grinned, both of them looking upon Robbie’s slumbering form briefly before Iplier decided to spare a glance to the couch from which he’d shuffled; he grinned with a light sigh when he saw the Host…..sleeping.

'Oh my god…..’

It wasn’t an exclamation, just a phrase of appreciation and happy awe from Iplier, which made Marvin grin and turn to look upon his hero…..who was also in deep slumber.

'Marv did you do some voodoo crap?’

Marvin repressed a stream of giggles as he turned to Iplier with a wide smile, eyes sparkling as they lightly rolled.

'Nohot this time…..’

The both smiled and quietly laughed, whilst also subconsciously agreeing to let the rest of their group reside in the land of nod for the time being neither of them had the heart to even consider trying to rouse them. It was like an unspoken rule. So the magician and the doctor simply whispered together, the medical man raising his curiosity as to what Marvin’s “magical core” was, from a medical perspective; Marvin was elated to explain. And now, I think, we can leave them to it……as we go onwards.

———————————————————————————————————–

We really don’t have far to go, a mere metre in fact only separates the aforementioned scene with the next that’s going to unfold. Now let me tell you…..this is going to be simply divine. Literally. For as we slowly approach, crossing from lilac and violet to a more lime and grassy ground…..here we have two angels. One is in fact more obvious since it features in his name; Angelicsepticeye, or just simply Angel, which is more than befitting. The second, was of equal purity and heavenly status; known as Lightiplier, or Light. This is again immensely appropriate, for when you are in his presence there is always a hint of a glow about the man; an aura of sorts. Light was always known to be wonderfully calm and serene, like an image of still, natural water; but not like that of a statue. He was reserved, but had no difficulty in terms of lack of emotion. He felt many things, primarily his love for Angel took precedence….but this had fractionally been replaced by hints of annoyance; not entirely serious annoyance, but it was still there.

This was as a result of his loving, kind…..playful, boyfriend Angel; who had taken to passing the time by flicking one of his feathers over Light’s nose and other facial features, with a slightly childish cheekiness.

'Is this…..necessary?’

Light queried through partially gritted teeth as the bronze feather flicked under his nose, making him have to repress a sneeze. They both lay on their soft rug, two light salmon cushions behind their heads as their bodies rested rather unceremoniously, with limbs quite haphazard; but they were very comfy. Angel nibbled his lip, his turquoise eyes went to meet with Light’s hazel ones.

'Nooo…..but ihit’s funny seeing you scrunch…..’

Light furrowed his eyebrows with a gentle sigh, Angel’s child-like nature never ceased to bamboozle him at every turn; Light shook his face again, and ended up reflexively screwing his face up.

'Well I can’t help it, as well you know…..’

Angel let out a small giggle at Light’s tone, particularly at the gentle annoyance….which was actually what Angel reeeeally enjoyed coaxing out. Now, don’t go thinking he’d actually plucked himself and caused himself pain in order to acquire his soft tool. The two beings had wings you see, Angel’s were bronze whilst Light’s were more of a white-gold; and on occasion, light moulting could occur. Such of which had happened for Angel on this particular day, so he simply took advantage of what his body provided; and it was very effective.

'Ihit’s still fuhunny, you look lihike you smelt something reheeeeally bahad…..’

Angel giggled again as he flicked the tip of the feather over Light’s cheeks, making him scrunch more as he narrowed his eyes at his giddy partner.

'Oh really? My involuntary expressions amuse you do they?’

Angel still giggled, but felt a chill go down his spine which subsequently made his winged appendages shiver by a fraction; which light noticed as Angel mumbled.

'Y-Yeheah….th-they do.’

Angel could already feel himself shrinking under Light’s gaze, and the former let out a surprised gasp when Light suddenly took his wrist in a gentle, but inescapable, hold. Light plucked the feather from Angel’s fingers and twirled it between his own, a smile growing as he looked back to his cheeky angel.

'Hmmmm….well in that case, I wonder what your expressions will be?’

Angel’s breath caught in his throat at Light’s words, and he found himself frozen in nerves when Light suddenly rolled over so that he lay on top of him……trapping him. Angel let out a little yip when Light suddenly Light brought both his arms above his head, holding his wrists together with one hand; whilst the other was free to manipulate the long, stiff feather in what ever way he saw fit. Light could feel his excitement brimming.

'L-Light, b-baby you don’t have t-to do this…..’

Angel squeaked, tinges of pink already appearing on his cheeks. Light smirked deftly, eyes glinting mischievously as he decided to trail the feather down the sides of Angel’s slender, sensitive neck.

'I know I don’t have to…..but I really, really want to.’

Angel shivered as he let out a high-pitched squeak, cheeks properly blazing as he burst into mouse-like giggles; his head tossed and turned as he protested.

'Ohononono ohoho nohohohoooo…..’

Light let out a gentle chuckle as the feathery fibres teased every inch of skin, going at a slow pace of up and down and up and down….it was evilly methodical.

'Now, now, don’t be too loud…..wouldn’t want to disturb anyone now would we?’

Angel let out a quiet whimper as he nibbled his lip in an attempt to muffle himself, he most certainly didn’t want to be responsible for disturbing the slumbers of a zombie, writer AND superhero; and yet, the adorable sounds found a way to bounce forth from his lips.

'B-Buhut Ihi cahahahan’t hehelp ihihihit!’

Light chuckled at Angel’s whining, and decided to lean do so his lips brushed the shell of his ear; it meant that Angel shivered even before Light’s whispering started.

'That’s not my problem sweetheart…..tickle tickle tickle…..’

He cooed in a breathy whisper before he purred and placed nuzzly kisses at that side of Angel’s neck, whilst the feather kept teasing the other side, as well as Angel’s sensitive ear. Angel meanwhile was in torturous hell as he wriggled and giggled constantly, his eyes wide with his mirth and embarrassment as his face began to screw up.

'Bahahahahaby dohohohohon’t sahahahay ihihihihit!’

Light snickered into Angel’s ear as he kept on with his chaste kisses, all the while he slowly moved the feather from Angel’s neck and let it hover in the air.

'Don’t say what? Tickle? It’s only a word darling, what harm can it do?

Through Angel’s giggling he let out a tiny whimper at Light’s ruthless teasing…..Angel was now really realising that he was in for it. This was proven further when he felt the soft, devious flick of the feather at the centre of his waistline; he yelped and bucked fractionally. The fact that he hadn’t even noticed it move just flustered him more; his focus at the moment was just non-existent.

'Ihihihit’s ahan EHEVIHIL wohohord!’

Angel squealed as he flinched and bucked, the soft feather teasing the taut skin at his waist as Light continued his sloppy onslaught at his neck; the gentle teases were almost worse than hysteria could ever be. Light chuckled at Angel’s words as he hummed.

'Well I think it’s a lovely word…..tickle…..it just rolls off the tongue.’

Light flicked his tongue over the shell of Angel’s ear, making his squeak as his cheeks became fully and irreversible crimson.

'Nahahahahaha sh-shuhuhuhut uhuhuhup!!’

Light paused, internally elated at how Angel’s words opened up so many delectable opportunities as he decided to rear up and fix the man beneath him with a hard gaze; he spoke in a low growl.

'You really love to cross the line……don’t you?’

Angel gasped as he giggled residually, little whimpers escaping him as he struggled to find his voice.

'I-Ihi…….n-noho I-I…..’

Angel trailed off as Light raised a sceptical eyebrow, before smirking and deciding to place a chaste kiss on his lips; he couldn’t help it, the temptation was too alluring. Angel was taken by surprise and thus put into even more of a daze as Light withdrew, looking down into Angel’s eyes.

'Naughty little teasers like you…..ought to be severely punished.’

Angel couldn’t deny how intimidated he felt, as well as how strongly the giddy excitement had built up within him. His mouth was slightly agape amidst his speechlessness, which Light chuckled at as he manoeuvred so he used both his hands to pin Angel’s arms tight above his head; but there was still an element of comfort. Light shuffled more so he could get comfortable on Angel’s thighs as said man’s gaze flicked between him, and the feather he’d just discarded. Angel’s curiosity reawakened his vocal chords.

'Uh…..what a-are you gonna d-do?’

Light smiled fondly at Angel’s stammers as he finally settled, before allowing a broad smirk to rise as his downy wings bristled and came to the forefront…..Angel’s eyes widened. Oh no. Not this.

'I……am going to tickle you in the way that I know, will completely destroy you. And keep you in the intense, flustered mirthful state that you deserve.' 

Angel visibly shuddered as he yipped, eyes fixed upon the soft plumes of feathers that were approaching him at a teasingly slow pace. But eventually they began to sneak under his shirt, brushing his waist, belly and navel with evil delicacy.

'Ohohononohoho n-nahat thihis ahanything buhut thihihis!!’

Angel struggled to try and move is arms, but Light had him perfectly restrained; so Angel had no choice but to endure what was coming for him…..which honestly, was how he liked it.

'Sorry to break it to you…..but this is what you’re getting. And you’re going to love every, single, second of it.’

Light’s words melted in his ears as the wingtips snuck up further. They swept and dragged up his sides and fluttered and stroked at his ribcage, making Angel let out a few brief cackles.

'NAHAHA IHI’LL DOHO AHANYTHIHING!! AHANYTHING!!’

Light chuckled at his boyfriend’s pleas as his devious tools finally came to their destination, aka. Angel’s extremely sensitive, and vulnerable underarms; which, just so happened to be very susceptible to gentle sensations. Angel let out a loud squeal as Light cocked his head and cooed.

'Oh you divine little thing…..it’s too late now.’

The feathers were so soft and precise as they slowly dragged up and down inside Angels hollows, teasing the exposed areas relentless as Angel succumbed…..and was broken. Now, when I say “broken” I don’t mean hysterical, or begging with tears in his eyes and lungs fighting for their sanity; I mean that his composure, his mentality of defiance and coherency…..was destroyed.

'N-nohohoho b-bahaby…..n-nahahat th-theheheeere….’

Angel was shivering with his head thrown back, his mouth stretched into a wide smile as he giggled, whined and mewled at the sensations; essentially, he was becoming mush.

'Ohhh yes here….I know how much you just adore being tickled here. I know how much you just crave to let go and surrender to the tickly, and teasy bliss that I give you.’

Light spoke in a dimmed voice, a low tone that was meant for Angel’s ears only as he watched said man with love and fond awe. The way Angel’s body just shivered with innocent, joyful delight as it was teased….it was a wonder to behold, an experience one might say. Light’s expression was soft as he let his wings do the work, all the while he simply observed, amused at how Angel could barely look at him for even a second.

’D-dohohohon’t s-sahay th-thohohose thihihihings…..’

Angel whispered bashfully as his cheeks burned like crimson fire, his mind whirring and processing Light’s words as they seemed to contribute to his utterly ravished state. Light knew this of course, and his smile widened as he leant to whisper in Angel’s ear.

'Why? Does saying out loud make it worse? Does it make it feel more real?’

Angel gulped as a chill went down his spine, but it was quickly replaced by warmth as fond, affectionate kisses took the place of Angel’s whispers. His lips were soft and delicate, and worked in sync with the movement of the feathers; with each long drag came a lengthy kiss. Angel was just in utter bliss, he didn’t even think as he replied.

'Yehehehes…..ihit m-mahakes ihit wohohorse b-buhut I l-lohove ihihit…..’

Light felt his heart beat faster, very nearly out of his chest at Angels’ words; he couldn’t articulate how happy it made him feel when he got confirmation that he’d made Angel happy. The concept of bringing someone else real joy and satisfaction really made Light feel….indescribably amazing.

'It makes me feel so happy when….you say that you love it. Because I love you, so so much….’

At Light’s meaningful words, Angel blinked a few times; despite his immeasurably ravished state, when he heard those words come from Light’s lips he could never have failed to respond.

'Ihi lohohove yohou toho…..’

Light let out a little giggle as Angel’s eyes flicked up to his, with intense bashfulness encasing them; they held each others’ gaze for a moment before neither could hold back the urge to kiss. Light and Angel loved to kiss, they loved how the act was so intimate and unique, and yet so innocent; it could hold so much. Like now, it held their giddiness and adoration for one another; Angel giggled into Light’s lips as said man’s wings withdrew from his underarms, tracing down the rest of his torso before they moved back completely.

’…..th-thahank you….’

Light grinned widely at Angel’s mumbling and pecked his forehead lovingly. He still held his wrists however, so he decided to slowly bring them down so that he could place chaste kisses on the pale knuckles of his angel. Before long, Angel had shuffled to nestle into Light’s chest as Light draped an arm over his waist, and covered him protectively with one of his wings. They were encompassed, and together in peace and love. You really could say that they were a picture of divinity, and what everyone should aspire to be. No matter who you are, what you may, or may not, believe in…..peace and love are the ultimatums of our world; so lets achieve it. I think we will tonight, eventually; come, let us amble on.

———————————————————————————————————–

That really was quite profound, and beautiful to behold….so this will perhaps be a slight transition; I’ll take you in slowly. We’re moving from the “main” living area to the aptly named “middle” living area. There’s no furniture as such, but it’s a nice open spot for when people might want to amalgamate; which was why it had been strategically chosen for the most important part of the evening. The New Year Countdown. Mounted on the wall was a HUGE HD television, with many wires extending from it that were all most likely extremely complex and important in some way; however, there were also some decorative lights surrounding it which twinkled and really complimented it. Those were courtesy of Oliver, who was incredibly proud of his contribution as he watched his three brothers tinker and fiddle with the set-up. Alongside him was Crank, who was also being extremely helpful by making comments on symmetry and aesthetic, which the other three Googles really appreciated.

'Perhaps if you actually assisted personally, the task would be completed to the appropriate level of satisfaction?’

Google Red commented with a fractionally raised eyebrow, looking between the two bystanders who both only shrugged with gentle grins. Oliver giggled a little.

'But you’re waaaaay better at actually setting stuff up and organising things! It’s literally your thing!’

Googles Green and Blue, or as they were known by Oli and Crank, Greeny and Bluey, rolled their eyes as Red’s (or Strawby’s) bashfulness crept up at Oli’s words; compliments were the one thing that even threw him off his stride.

'Th-that is n-not the p-point…..’

Crank and Oliver shared a giggly glance at Red’s hitched voice, and Green let out a gentle sigh; honestly, the utter childishness of the two of them seriously astounded him at times.

'You both still have a responsibility here, you need to contribute in some way.’

Crank let out a light gasp, which spurred Oliver to giggle and bring his hands up to cover his mouth, all the while Green just folded his arms and amusedly observed Crank’s affronted response.

'We HAVE contributed! Oliver has literally formulated and executed the prime aesthetic factors associated with the task….’

Green couldn’t help but grin lightly at the boy’s bubbly insistence, and he flicked his eyes to Blue who snickered and decided to observe the interaction.

’…..and I’ve been giving relevant direction, without having sat down for aaaaages!’

Crank finished resolutely, and Oliver tried to set his own expression to a similarly serious one…..but his giggles only hindered that particular objective. Green shook his head at Crank with a light laugh before his eyes flicked to Oliver in his giggly state; he couldn’t help it, he couldn’t NOT focus on the adorable sight. Blue meanwhile, focused on Crank, stepping forward and standing in front of him with an expression of fake sympathy.

'Oh poor you, you must be so exhausted…..from your lack of effort.’

Crank couldn’t help but grin widely as Blue’s eyes shone with his sarcasm and deviance; Blue was so glad that he had this fifth brother, especially given how much emotion he had bursting at the seams.

'You know what? I am actually, I think I’ll just take a seat down here….’

Without further ado Crank just decided to plop onto the floor, or rather the beautifully haphazard rug that covered the majority of the area. Hints of ocean, forest, sun and morning sky came together with a slightly…..rusty, aged hue overlaying it; binding it together. Crank wriggled to get comfy as Blue looked down at him, meanwhile Red and Green had also abandoned their tasks in order to convince their sunshine brother to also contribute to the challenge at hand; but at Crank’s actions, he couldn’t help but copy him with a boyish grin and a light giggle. The three Googles standing glanced at one another, and their respective irises began to shine as their lips twitched; and they came to a respective decision. Blue smiled deftly, tilting his head down at Crank as he spoke.

'You will contribute.’

Crank giggled gently, folding his arms with a defiant smirk as Oliver did the same in response to his two other brothers. Crank voiced them both.

'What if we refuse?’

Honestly, Crank was surprised at his own words, especially given how his confidence and defiance were diminishing with every passing second that Blue looked at him. The droid’s eyes seemed to shine brighter by his words, as if they’d motivated him in some way. Oliver had been observing his other two brothers, whose eyes had done the same……which sent a chill down his spine. Oliver knew what this meant. When any of the Googles’ eyes shone collectively, it meant that they were silently communicating with one another. Oliver fidgeted impatiently as Crank observed with nervous anticipation. After a few more moments, their eyes returned to their normal shines and hues; Blue turned to Green and Red with a small grin before he went back to looking down at Crank.

'Then…..we shall simply force you to.’

'NOHO! WAIT WAIT DON’T DO THIHIHIS!’

Crank jumped and paled at the sound of Oli’s desperate voice, and the sight he saw made him gulp and shiver. Red and Green had pounced on him. Green had perched on Oliver’s thighs and had his fingers rigorously scratching in his hollows, all the while Red had his arms pinned above his head; he had no way to escape. Blue smirked at Crank’s wide-eyed distractedness and used it to his advantage, this meant he as able to tackle the boy down onto the rug and start rapidly squeezing his sides and abdomen.

'NAHA! Bluhuehey nohoho noho tihihicklihihing!’

Crank exclaimed with a loud squeal, immediately descending into wild giggles as he thrashed at Blue’s touch; Blue had copied Green’s position, it was an excellent vantage point for ease of accessibility. The two in fact glanced at each other, grinning deviously before returning to their respective victims.

'But tickling is such and excellent method of persuasion, particularly for people like you and Oliver who are perfectly susceptible to it….’

Blue trailed off with a small chuckle as Crank’s hands frantically batted at his; which had decided to switch from squeezes to scratches at Crank’s sides; it transpired that they were a far more effective technique for that area.

'NAHAHAHA C'MOHONHON!! THIHIS IHIS MEHEHEHEAN!!’

Crank wailed, his cheeks were already a wonderful navy hue amidst his scrunched face; his head meanwhile, tossed about rapidly in his mirth. Blue chuckled as his hands delved under Crank’s black hoodie and t-shirt, thus making him shriek and hit out more whilst Blue got accessed his bare skin; his scratches and pinches roamed up and down Crank’s sides and ribs as he spoke nonchalantly.

'I must disagree, I think this is most adequate and appropriate for your transgression-’

'STAHAP WIHITH THE FAHANCY PAHANTS WOHOHOHORDS!!’

Google Blue snickered as Crank wriggled and shoved at his hands fruitlessly, and he rolled his eyes whilst reiterating his phrasing.

'Essentially, it’s not mean because you deserve it for being so lazy and cheeky’ which brings me to my next point actually…..’

Crank screeched and cackled as Blue’s fingers rubbed his ribcage in slow, teasing circles as the droid himself maintained a cool, calm exterior; even though internally he was elated at the whole scenario….as were his brothers. Well, two of them at least.

'Awwww coochie coo Oli!’

'Who’s got a ticklish tummy? Oh wait…..it’s you!’

Green and Red giggled and snickered to themselves as they teased their younger brother with perfectly calculated, devious synchronicity; being at the mercies of BOTH of them was really taking its toll on poor Oliver.

'YOHOHOU MEHEHANIHIES! DOHOHON’T TEHEASE IHIT’S NAHAHAT FAHAHAIR!’

Oliver squirmed and squealed, tugging at his arms in vain as Red smirked down at him, keeping his hold firm. Green meanwhile chuckled as his fingertips rapidly scratched at Oliver’s bare and quivering tummy which, as you can probably tell, was extremely ticklish. At Oliver’s words, Red narrowed his eyes at him and spoke in a slight growl.

'Well that was rude, I think it’s about time our little brother learnt some manners.’

Red sent Green a devious smirk, which the latter copied as his fingers splayed, curling and uncurling over Oliver’s sides and ribs whilst he muttered.

'I couldn’t agree more…..’

Oliver’s eyes widened as he let out a little whimper amidst his frantic and breathless giggles, his torso jerking from side to side all the while.

'N-nohohoho Greheheeny! S-Strahahawby Ihi’m sahaharry!! Dohohon’t tihickle mehe mohohore!!’

Oliver whined nervously through his giggling, flicking his eyes between his brothers hopefully as they both hummed…..but then they shared another glance where their irises shone. So…..after a few anticipatory seconds, their smirks returned and Oliver gulped when they looked down at him.

'Now…..is it just me, or did he just say “tickle me more”?’

Red spoke slowly and gently, his smile was a small, one as he looked across to his equally devious brother. Green’s emerald irises glinted as they flicked down to fix upon Oliver, who was beginning to frantically shake his head; Green grinned.

'That’s exactly what I heard!’

Olive was already giggling as he tugged at his arms and spoke in a pleading, high-pitched tone.

'Nonononohoho Ihi didn’t mehean it lihike that, you knohow I didn’t!!’

Oliver’s cheeks bore a lemon flush from his mirth and his utter embarrassment, all the while Green looked back to Red with an expression of innocent thoughtfulness.

'Honestly…..I think it’s our duty, as brothers, to make sure our little Oliver is happy.’

Green’s grin was widening, and Red’s lips too stretched as he listened to his sibling’s words with interest, as well as joy due to the mischief that they held; Red decided to dim his own voice, joining i teasingly.

'And having been provided with a method that he so clearly desires, it would be…..cruel of us to not utilise this information…..’

'Strawby plehease! D-dohon’t d-do this t-to me guys!’

Oliver’s words came out amidst squeaks and whimpers as he realised the state of his predicament, whilst Green smiled and both his siblings. Siblings…..he loved that words. Green’s mainframe refocused on the task at hand however, and he smirked as he nodded to Red who then shifted so that Oliver’s arms were pinned under his knees; and now, he had two hands free. Those hands appeared in Oli’s eye-line for a moment, before they disappeared and began their descent. Oliver’s smile seemed to glow as he squirmed, his breath leaving him in titters as he tensed…..he had no idea where he was going to be attacked next. Which was, in his opinion, rather cruel indeed. Green observed Oliver, his gaze raking over his shivery anticipation, his flushed cheeks, and his overall demeanour of joy……Green only had one thought in that moment. Thank, whoever is applicable, for the existence of emotions.

'Gotcha!’

Green was brought out of his thoughts by Red’s exclamation and Oliver’s following squeal.

'Nahahaha gehet awahahay frohom thehehere!!’

Oliver wailed as he tossed and turned his head, because Red’s fingertips had started to haphazardly flick and flutter at his neck and ears; thus causing some rather wondrous reactions. Green grinned as he leant forward teasingly.

'Having fuuuun? This is too adorable, especially since this is meant to be a punishment for your childish laziness…..’

Green snickered as Oliver screwed his face up through his giggles and light groupings of snorts, who would have known that such gentle touches could cause such amazing responses? Well, it seemed that Google Blue was aware of this fact. He was in fact working rather in sync with his brothers, as in he had also decided upon a gentle and teasing approach for his victim. Crank was encased in embarrassed giggles as he flinched and yipped, since Blue’s nimble fingertips occupied themselves by tracing round his hips and over his waistline; the taunting delicacy had awakened Crank’s nervous system, which meant that it was rather agonising for him.

'Bluhuhuehehey…….th-thihis ihis ehehevihihiiil!’

Crank’s smile was wide and his eyes were screwed shut as he squeaked and bucked, his giggles plagued with random yelps as Blue worked methodically and without mercy. Said Google had a sly smile on his lips as he observed every reaction, documenting and cataloging as much as possible; for future reference, of course.

'Oh I think we both know that this is perfectly justified, particularly due to your……incessently cheeky defiance.’

Blue’s tone was light and taunty and it only made Crank grin wider, because let it be known; Crank is a cheeky little shit, simple. He decided to open his eyes fractionally, which he immediatly regretted when he saw Blue’s expression of devious satisfaction.

'Buhuhut thahat’s who Ihi ahahaham!’

Crank retorted, but then swiftly squealed when Blue’s fingertips swept over his waist; he probed and scratched over the sensitive skin which made Crank emit a whiny wail. Google raised an amused eyebrow.

'Oh I’m aware of that, but that doesn’t mean you’re exempt from giving an apology……speaking of which…..’

Crank giggled and sniggered heartily, he knew Google was going to get to the point sooner or later; Blue fixed him with an expectant stare as he halted his torment for a moment.

’……I haven’t yet heard and apology from you. Would you care to rectify that?’

Even though the teasy tickling had halted, Crank was still encased in bubbly giggles…..because he knew he wasn’t out of the woods yet. He took a few light breaths as he gently tried to tug at his arms, which Google had pinned under his knees; he’d found Crank’s physical resistance to be somewhat of a hinderance. Google stared patiently, looking at Crank as he seemed to think……but then he smiled. It was small, and childish, and was accompanied back a small shake of his head.

’……..n-nohope…….’

Blue blinked a few times, tilting his head as Crank with a curious smile as he observed him in his jittery state.

'Nope? So you mean to tell me…….that you DON’T intend to apologise?’

Crank felt himself gulp and shrink under Google’s amused stare as he knawed at his lip, all the while Google moved his hands from his torso and held them behind him. For the moment at least. After a few seconds, Crank whispered in a high-pitched voice.

’…..th-that’s r-right…..’

Crank cursed his frailty as Google let out a small hum, before he grinned and put his plan into action. His fingertips fell and hovered gently atop Crank’s thighs, which made Crank’s eyes widen as his whole body tensed.

'Are you……quite sure, that you want to stay with that decision?’

Blue’s fingertips had begun to lightly tap, trail, and seemingly walk themselves further down Crank’s legs; inching closer to where his knees were situated. They were half-bent,a sign of Crank’s nerves.

’……mhm….p-pretty suhure…..’

Crank knew what was coming, he knew how diabolical it was going to be…..but he didn’t care; he would be defiant till the last. With no exception. Google Blue smirked a little, not only from his amusement but also because of how he was constantly surprised by Crank. He knew he was going to lose, and yet he was going to face his consequences despite having the option to avoid them; it confused Google to no end……which he loved.

'Reeeeally?’

Google spoke with a light coo to his voice, making Crank yip and turn his head away as he carried on giggling in anticipation…..which also meant that he couldn’t bring himself to reply. Google snickered, knowing that Crank’s silence wouldn’t last.

'Well then….. you leave me no choice. Good luck.’

He was so deft and merciless, and Crank’s eyes bugged out of their sockets as he tried to comprehend the rapid scratching and scribbling at the backs of his knees. Google smirked as Crank’s frantic shrieks filled his ears.

'NAHAHAHAHAHA FAHAHACK!!! NAHAHAHAT THEHEHEHERE!!!’

Crank was bucking and thrashing and tugging at his limbs as his lungs worked to give him air, it was like being electrocuted; he’d never felt a sensation like it before. Google kept up his method as he peered down at Crank, eyes gleaming with the satisfaction and knowledge of his impending victory.

'But I think this is the ideal place for me to work. I know it’s going to get me exactly what I want.’

As Google’s triumphant words filled his ears, Crank continued to wail as he squeezed his eyes shut; he couldn’t bare to look at that embodiment of smugness any longer. However, others had decided to observe.

'O-oho gohod…..’

Oliver was one of them, even amidst his own gentle torture his found himself transfixed by Crank’s hysteria; just seeing him be reduced to that sort of a mess sent a shudder through his system. A shudder, that his two similarly observing siblings, had picked up on. Red and Green shared a glance, and they didn’t even need to use their private connection to communicate; Red spoke first, looking down at Oliver with rapt excitement.

'Y'know, I think that it’s about time that you apologised. It’s clear that your little comrade is close to breaking……so you might as well give up now.’

From his position on Oli’s legs, Green grinned at Red’s amazing tease as Oliver gulped and looked away from them; his hard-drive was focused on Crank’s screeching laughter. Due to how his focus had diverted from his brothers, this then spurred them to use the opportunity of Oliver’s distractedness. Green leaned over Oli carefully, making his voice clear.

'And now you ignore us…..you deserve to have this apology forced from you.’

Oliver blinked a few times as he picked up on his brother’s abruptness, and looked to him hurriedly; but he didn’t get a chance to look for long, because Green had begun to shuffle away. In seconds he was sat on Oliver’s ankles, facing his bare feet; Oliver felt a lot more motivated to speak all of a sudden.

'W-wahait I-I didn’t m-mehean to! I-I’m sorry!’

Oliver let out a small whimper as his gaze flicked to Red, whose demeanour did hold hints of sympathy; but it became wholly mischief as he spoke, whilst Green smirked and positioned his fingertips.

'Mmm, I don’t think you’re sorry yet…..but you will be.’

At Red’s words, Green suddenly became relentless. His blunt nails were perfect for scraping up and down Oliver’s taut soles and arches, as well as scratches at the heels and balls of his sensitive feet. Oliver hadn’t bothered trying to hold back his high-pitched scream as he, like Crank, descended into mirthful hysteria.

'AHAHAHAHAAHHH!!! NAHAHAHAT MY FEHEHEHEET!!!’

Oliver was already gasping as his wide smile threatened to burst his cheeks and dimples, his back arching in response to the sensations as he tugged at his limbs with all his might; but he didn’t get the result he desired. Red and Green were perfectly content with their findings though.

'Awwww coochie coochie coo! Look at these ticklish tootsies!’

'God it must tickle so bad……but is it enough to make you apologise properly?’

Their teases just seemed to support and bounce off one another, and Oliver’s cheeks seemed to darken even more as he wailed.

'NOHOHOHO MOHOHOHOHORE!!!’

His wailing didn’t stop Green however as his movenents shifted so he was fluttering and flicking at Oli’s toes, which elicited some marvellous yelps through his laughter. Red still had his arms pinned, but he’d moved them from under his knees so he could hold them carefully; so there was a constant reassurance of safety in place. I have to say that at this point, there had never been a more utterly vibrant scene. An array of colourful people, drawing out an array of vibrant reactions; all amidst an array of encapsulating, charming decoration and atmosphere. It’s quite the marvel, I think you’ll agree. It was at this point too, that they all seemed to draw together; the three “tormenting” brothers grinning deftly at one another. They were connected in their deviousness and their determination to extract what they wanted. Then, there were the two brothers who were twins in their unbridled mirth, interlinked with empathy and dwindling resolve. The first to cry out was Oliver though, he just couldn’t take anymore.

'OHOHOHOHOKAHAHAHAY!!! PLEHEHEHEHEHE!!! SAHAHAHAHARRY!!!’

His new incoherency was enough of an indicator, thus spurring Green’s fingers to halt and withdraw as Red too allowed for mercy. Oliver’s limbs were free as he hastened to encase himself amidst breathy, residual giggling; all the while he looked upon Crank, who too was about to give into the inevitable.

'Can I expect a coherent apology if I grant you mercy?’

Google Blue commented with a smile as he pinched and probed at Crank’s kneecaps, all the while their owner writhed with tears on his cheeks; thankfully, he managed to muster the energy to nod.

'YEHEHEHEHEHEHE PLEHEHEHEHEHE!!!’

Blue hummed, his smile becoming more smug as his fingertips softened and gradually rose away from their battlefield as Crank gasped and gulped; Blue shuffled off him, thus meaning that he too was free. Both his legs seemed to tingle as his breathing returned to normal, and his rusty, oceanic orbs flicked to Blue’s, shining, sapphire ones. The latter’s smile dimmed to a more delicate one.

'Are you……recovered?’

Crank let out a huffed laugh through his nose as he sat up and nodded, all the while Oliver was doing the same. Red and Green had embraced him, without failing to include a playful ruffle of his hair before pulling him to his feet with wide grins. Crank smiled at the scene, and so jumped when a hand suddenly came into his eye-line; Blue’s hand. It was accompanied with a grin and a small eye sparkle, and Crank felt himself match that grin as he accepted the assistance.

'Good, I need you on cable disentanglement; you too Oliver.’

Crank turned to the sunshine eyed droid, who let out a light giggle as he was given two pats on the back and a small shove before Green and Red went back to their own tasks. Oliver shuffled next to Crank before looking to Blue and giving him a mock salute.

'On it!’

Blue sighed, rolling his eyes as he decided to briefly observe them; they both slowly sank to the floor where they began fiddling with bundles of cables, conversation immediately flying between them. Google didn’t know what they discussed, but when words left Oli’s mouth they seemed to make his eyes light up, and when Crank replied his voice seemed to buzz with happy enthusiasm. That’s what you hope for, I think. The concept of siblings is a mystery to me, but I think I understand the basis. The relationship between siblings is more than family. It is trust, and avid joy, and playfulness and respect all rolled into one. You know each other, because it’s like you’ll all part of the same puzzle, and when you’re all together you are just…..a masterpiece.

———————————————————————————————————-

God isn’t it amazing to just have fun and play around? I think you can agree with me, given what we just witnessed; so lets move on to some more of that particular joy. I guess, this is somewhat of a “side” living area? I don’t know about you, but there’s something about it that just gives it an aura of seclusion. Perhaps it’s the yonder fireplace, they always bring so much to a room don’t they? Anyway, we’ll get to that soon. For now, I spy another piece of furniture, except this couch is a rather sultry, olive green with mintish hued cushions; it’s not an especially catching colour scheme, but it doesn’t need to be. It adds a sense of calm, especially due to its inhabitants being rather bold in character; namely, Chase Brody and Dr Henrik Von Schneeplestein. The prince of deft trick-shots and the patron of the emergency room; quite the match in fact, since here they are romantic in relations.

Relating back to fun, these two were certainly engaging in some in the form of charades; aka when one person uses actions to act out a chosen word or phrase, and the other or others have to guess what it is. Despite its perceived generic nature, it can really be quite hilarious.

'OH! Is it a space vormhole?’

Schneeple exclaimed as he clapped his hands, eyes bright with the hope of being correct…..but alas not as Chase shook his head. Chase was ready to admit that he was at his wit’s end, because of the fact that Schneeple was the WORST guesser in the history of charades. Chase sighed, eyes fluttering shut for a moment as he sighed.

'Okay…..lets try this again.’

Chase took a deep breath, then repeated his miming. He mimicked a cube-like object, after which he motioned opening a door, putting something in, closing it, pushing buttons, and then some kind of circling or rotating motion occurring. In case you didn’t pick it up from that, the object here is a washing machine. Chase didn’t know how much more he could simplify it because there was LITERALLY nothing else it could be; so how his dear, sweet Henrik had managed to get “wormhole”, “spinning plates” and “record player” Chase would never know. Now, participating is certainly fun, but watching was just as good too; which was what a certain gentleman was doing, sat cross-legged on the yellow, green and orange rug. His name was Dapper, and let me tell you, he was most certainly very dapper. With a jet black twirlable moustache, a topping bowler hat, and gentlemanly attire from the 1920’s he was the epitome of spiffing smartness.

Another quirk of this man was that he was mute, but he still made other noises like hums of content or hiccups of joy; it was just words that eluded him. However, he was in fact one of the loveliest people spend time with, since his flashcards and sign language made communication as easy and regular vocalisation. For now though, he just smiled and hugged his knees as he watched the doctor’s thoughtful expression.

'Hmmmm……hypnotism?’

Chase let out a loud groan as he grasped the peak of his cap in frustration, whilst Schneeple humphed with a pout as he raised his arms in exasperation.

'Vell vhat is it? Put me out of my misery!’

Chase shook his head in defeat as he spoke in a tone of overly dejected despair.

'Babe…..it was a washing machine.’

The utter exhausted, desperation that flickered in Chase’s voice made Dapper grin and let out a quiet giggle as Schneeple furrowed his eyebrows; he was clearly dissatisfied.

'How vos zat a vashing machine?! Your arms vere making vortexes!’

Schneeple exclaimed as he proceeded to wave his arms about in a mock impression of Chase, to which said man reacted with light indignance as he folded his arms across his chest.

'My miming was perfect and you know it! You’re just salty cuz you’re shit at guessing.’

Schneeple’s mouth dropped open, making Dapper giggle again as Chase grinned widely; teasing Henrik was so much damn fun.

'How dare you! I am not ze shit von here!’

Schneeple’s shoulders moved as he spoke, almost seeming to shimmy with the force of his sass and insistence as he also folded his arms; his lips were pursed, not from annoyance, but from his strong attempt not to smile and burst out laughing. Chase meanwhile, didn’t bother to hide his mirth as he snickered and stuck his tongue out.

'Oh c'mon just admit your crappiness! It’s not like you can hide it since it’s constantly plain to see…..’

Chase sniggered as Schneeple’s mouth opened wider at his rude cheekiness, and he was clearly about to give Chase a piece of his mind…..before a little, giggly cough caught their attention. Dapper had tried to clamp a hand over his mouth to stop the noise escaping, but alas he was too late…..Now he was forced with the couple’s full attention, particularly Schneeple’s as he was the first to speak.

'Vell it seems zat somevone has ze giggles! Did ve miss something amusing?’

Dapper felt himself grinning and letting out more little giggles as he flicked his eyes between Schneeple and Chase, both of whom looked to him expectantly. Schneeple’s eyebrows were raised and Chase’s lips bore a curious grin as Dapper slowly moved his hands from his face, quickly using them to sign.

“Chase is right, your guessing is really bad.”

As they both interpreted him, Schneeple ended up pursing his lips tighter with narrowing, steely eyes as Chase let out a spluttery guffaw. Dapper looked between them, and Chase soon recovered…..but he let out a gently exaggerated gasp before he spoke. 

'Well now that’s kinda mean!’

'I find myself agreeing vith you….’

Schneeple’s words were consecutive after Chase’s, and Dapper found himself being bamboozled, in particular by Chase. He cocked his head and wiggled his moustache in thought before hurriedly signing again.

“But I’m only agreeing with Chase, he said it first not me!”

Chase and the good doctor shared a glance as they interpreted the confused, and now slightly nervous, man; they both nodded to each other before they turned back to Dapper, and Chase spoke first with a sly smile.

'Ah, but I’m an exception! I’m allowed to say those things; but if someone else says those things then it’s just……so rude!’

Dapper fidgeted a little, nibbling his lip as he listened intently…..but he found himself picking up on the playfulness that laced Chase’s voice. He didn’t have time to analyse further however, since Schneeple’s voice made him jump and snap his attention to him.

'So rude indeed…..’

Schneeple trailed off, and felt a threatening smile make his lips twitch as he slowly leant forward on the couch; he bore a rather determined expression. Dapper knew it was playful, but both men’s movements and tones of voice sent  a light chill down his spine as his own smile was maintained; his fingers were a flurry in the air.

“I didn’t mean to be rude! I swear it I swear it!”

Dapper’s eyes were wide as Schneeple leant even further forward, and he gulped when Schneeple seemed to analyse him……before a playful glare took centre stage on his features.

'Hm……I’m not sure if I believe you…..’

Dapper fidgeted as the doctor rose from his seat and towered over him, pausing momentarily as he folded his arms.

'If I recall, you seemed razer enthusiasteec, and happy, vhilst you vere insulting me.’

Schneeple’s sky blue irises darted over the nervous man as his lips seemed to twist and quirk……alright, perhaps Dapper had quite enjoyed teasing Schneeple. A little bit. Said man bore a sneaky smile as his partner let out a curious hum as he stood, and inched next to Dapper as he looked down at him. Glee was dancing in Chase’s eyes, and he knew that it was slightly mean of him and Schneeple to do this; to tease Dapper like this. Then again, Chase decided that technically Dapper had brought it on himself…..that was a good enough excuse right?

'Yeah I noticed that…..makes ya feel good to be cheeky does it?’

Schneeple grinned at Chase’s words as Dapper hurriedly shook his head, his hands practically waving themselves about in their frantic energy; but even through his nerves, there was a small smile on Dapper’s lips. His signing was still as insistent as ever though.

“No no no! I wasn’t being cheeky I wasn’t!”

Dapper gulped and inched back when Schneeple suddenly dropped down onto his knees, they were at the same level now; Dapper could see his eyes twinkling with mischievous intent.

'Oh is zat so? If zat is truly ze case…..zen vhat is vith zis little smile? Hm?’

Schneeple tapped his fore-finger to Dapper’s cheek, or rather his dimple which had surfaced from his nervous smile; said smile widened as Dapper tried to look to the side so he could hide it, but he only ended up being faced with Chase who had also dropped to his level. His demeanour was equally as devious as he commented.

'I gotta agree, if that ain’t a cheeky smile then I don’t know what is!’

Dapper hurried to look down into his lap, to avoid their teasing gazes as a light, rosy flush appeared on his cheeks; just from the sheer, giddy embarrassment that he felt. As this occurred, his hands stayed still since they were too busy fidgeting with one another; Chase and Schneeple grinned at one another before Schneeple decided to aim a light poke to Dapper’s ribcage.

'Excuse me, ve expect you attention! Particularly vhen ve are trying to teach you some manners!’

At the brief poke, Dapper’s entire form seemed to indeed, snap to attention as his posture straightened and a little yip left his lips. Oh no. They wouldn’t…..would they? Dapper looked to the couple, whose eyes were shining with collective glee; Chase spoke up.

'Ooooh! It looks like that got his attention, if we wanna keep it then we shouldn’t let up!’

Chase snickered when Dapper started to shake his head, his smile morphing into an anticipatory grin; Schneeple let out an exaggerated gasp, and he could feel his fingers twitching in excitement.

'Vhat an excellent idea darling!’

Chase grinned with a happy gasp, deciding to worm his wiggling fingers into Dapper’s other side, all the while he looked to Schneeple with fond adoration.

'Awwww, thanks hun!’

As Schneeple and Chase exchanged their gentle flirtations, poor Dapper was just giggling frantically as he tried to bat at them and shuffle away on his tush; but his two captors quickly refocused themselves.

'Ah ah ah! Ve didn’t say you could leave mister cheeky chappy!’

Schneeple reprimanded with a light smirk as Chase hastened to grab Dapper’s shins so he could lightly, and playfully, drag him back between them. Dapper squeaked with wide eyes as he wriggled, but the poor guy had been taken off guard; instead of being sat up, he was now lying on the vibrant rug. If only he’d had some better balance. He looked between the pair of them nervously as the rosy dusting on his cheeks darkened…..particularly as a result of the doctor’s nickname for him; it had given him quite a few butterflies. Those were soon accompanied by shocks and tickly waves as Chase used both hands to work on one side of his torso.

'Tickle tickle tickle! Awwww, is Dappy a bit ticklish?’

The baby talk made Dapper let out a little wail as he tried to bat at Chase’s hands, which were kneading into his fleshy sides and protruding ribs; his squeaks and cackles were wonderfully sporadic, much like his defensive movements. Chase grinned down at the man, and couldn’t help but 'aww’ internally; he was so cute. His significant other was doing the same, and Schneeple’s and Chase’s gazes met through their shared adoration. Schneeple smiled before he hummed and lifted his hands into the air. 

'Hm, you still have not even tried to give me ze apology zat I deserve……so I think some more tickles are in order!’

Dapper gasped as he shook his head wildly, the sensations at ONE side of his body were already evilly torturous…..he could barely imagine what it would be like to feel even more tickling on top of that. Unluckily for him, he wouldn’t have to imagine for much longer.

'What an awesome diagnosis!’

Chase exclaimed, which made Schneeple chuckle as his raised fingers wriggled in the air…..before going to descend upon their targets. Yes targets…..plural. Poor Dapper. Not only did he have Chase’s nimble fingertips methodically scratching at his ribcage, making him cackle and squirm; now he had fingers fluttering under his chin and at his neck whilst a hand poked and pinched one of his thighs.

'Oh my love, zese compliments vill be ze death of me!’

Okay. Teasing had been diabolically bad, but pure nonchalance was just evil. Dapper was squealing and snorting as he was attacked from all sides. His shoulders were scrunched, his arms flailed, his legs kicked and his torso writhed; an unsympathetic person would call it the perfect workout regime. Chase glanced at the red faced man just long enough for him to relent on his torso, but only so he could fix his hair with one hand and use the other to scratch at the other side of Dapper’s neck; he sighed at the loud squeal, and he looked to Schneeple with a grin.

'Well you deserve them! Especially for being such a good doctor I mean, you diagnosed Dappy perfectly!’

Schneeple giggled a little as Chase chuckled, their fingertips dragging up and down Dapper’s neck and scratching behind his ears with stunning synchronicity; Schneeple’s other hand still kept up its haphazard onslaught at his thigh. At each pinch, Dapper’s whole leg would jerk away as the man himself let out a magnificent snort. Meanwhile, his squeaky giggling was continuous as he scrunched his shoulders and covered his face with his hands; the poor thing was so embarrassed. Schneeple’s tone of voice dimmed a little as he spoke.

'Even zough you’re trying to hide zat cheeky smile, zat doesn’t mean you’re punishment is over!’

Dapper’s grin was made inexplicably wider under his palms as he whined and thrashed about, with little tears of mirth reaching the corners of his eyes as he suddenly gasped. The sensations…..had gone.

Dapper was frozen with uncertainty, his hands still covering his face as his body tensed and he strained his ears; hoping to pick up anything that could give him a clue as to what might be about to happen next. He knawed his bottom lip, and his chocolate brown eyes blinked and flicked about; he considered peeking through his fingers…..but he was way too nervous. He jumped when he heard shuffling from either side of him, and he felt himself flush at the sound of a light chuckle. Dapper wondered how he’d even gotten to this point, but he didn’t have much time to think. Chase and Schneeple had been smiling at each other, and it only took a couple of actions and motions for them to formulate their finale together. Surprisingly, Schneeple had no difficulty interpreting anything…..huh.

They’d shuffled themselves, Chase was on his knees and leaning over Dapper’s upper-body as Schneeple knelt by his legs; arms raised with hands poised in the shapes of claws. They looked down at the tense, motionless man for a moment, and the couple smiled as a collective realisation swept through them. Dapper was still, unmoving…..and not even trying to escape his impending doom. Schneeple and Chase agreed…..this guy was too damn cute not to tickle.

'Surprise!’

They both yelled simultaneously as they dove in. Chase nestled his face into Dapper’s neck so he could nuzzle and blow raucously loud raspberries. At the same time, Schneeple’s hands had gotten to work with pinching and squeezing up and down Dapper’s thighs and knees; making sure not to miss any inch of ticklish flesh.

'AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!’

If you required an audio definition of a shriek, then this would be beyond perfect. Dapper laughed like a madman as snorts and squeals forced themselves from him, all the while his body writhed and his face contorted with his unbridled hysteria. Chase took the opportunity to coo into Dapper’s ear as he took a breath. 

'Coochie coochie coooo! We’ve got you nooooow!’

Chase emitted an exaggerated evil laugh as he administered his raspberries in frantic little bursts, and combined with the scratchiness of his facial hair, this kept Dapper squealing wildly. Said man’s hands had stayed rooted on his face to hide his crimson cheeks, which burned more at Chase’s words as Dapper whined too. For someone who avoided all words, he could still be remarkably and beautifully vocal. Schneeple smirked at the sound of Chase’s tease as he kept up his own assault and spoke in a low, taunting purr.

'Awwww vhat a sensitive leetle baby you are! Chase darling, ve simply must keep him!’

Dapper snorted and squeaked as he kicked his legs and tried to just generally curl up, he didn’t have the strength nor the motivation to fight back as he heard them both giggle to themselves.

'Agreed!’

At Chase’s response, Dapper felt himself smile even wider, and he wasn’t quite certain as to why. Wait…..yes he was. The reason his smile was so large and joyful was because of how safe Dapper felt, and that safety…..stemmed from the knowledge that he was looked after. It’s an indescribable feeling, to know for certain that you are wanted. Dapper had that feeling…..and he loved it. Amidst his profound thinking, he hadn’t even noticed how his tormentors had slowed down more and more. He peeked through his fingers, and at first he saw Chase who was grinning as he leant up from his neck.

'Ya still with us Dappy?’

Dapper was still letting out a stream of giggles as he breathed deeply, slowly letting one hand leave his face so he could rub his neck; those residual tingles were giving him chills. He looked to Chase and slowly nodded, letting the rest of his face be uncovered as he used his other hand to help him sit up.

'You had better be! I still vant my apology…..’

Schneeple exclaimed with a mock glare, which Dapper giggled at as he brought his knees to his chest; Schneeple had long since retracted his hands, but there were so many ghostly sensations. The nervous system was an evil, evil thing. Dapper smiled embarrassedly at Schneeple as he slowly raised his hands, and the latter smiled as he interpreted.

“I am sorry, honest! And only just alive…..”

Chase snickered at the last part as Dapper went back to hugging his knees and gazing at Schneeple; the doctor didn’t hesitate to chuckle and nudge his shoulder.

'Ah I forgive you! You vere wrongly influenced after all…..’

Schneeple trailed off as he sent Chase a smirk, to which Chase responded with a stuck out tongue and a playful sneer. Dapper let out a gentle sigh as the two men came close to him again, mainly so they could discuss what game to play next; but Dapper had something else on his mind. As do I. I said at the very beginning that this overall tale is about a family….I should have made that plural. This conglomeration of people are like microcosms in the macrocosm of their main family. A macrocosm is “the big”, the overall world or reality; a microcosm is like a mini-copy of that world, inside it. That’s what Schneeple, Chase and Dapper are. A small family, inside an even bigger family; either way it’s family, and that’s pretty awesome.

———————————————————————————————————–

That was a nice thing to discuss. Discussions in general can be quite nice can’t they? Just to be able to properly ramble and have people agree with or add to you point of view, is seriously nice and fulfilling. As we pull away from our microcosm, we can now find a rather wonderful discussion. A discussion revolving around love and passion, which to the untrained eye would probably be labelled as obsession; but I think we all know better. The crackling fireplace set the warmth and the atmosphere for such a chat, and the dark pink and magenta rug only added to the comfort that Walter Warfstache and Yandereplier shared. Yandere had always thought that no-one could ever match the passion that they had for their Senpai; Yandere was passion, and passion was Yandere. Until they met Walter. The dark-pink moustached man’s love and dedication to melons was a wonder for Yandere to hear, because it meant they weren’t alone when it came to feeling so much emotion for something. It was the same for Walter.

He’d been degraded and mocked for his passion, and even he himself had labelled himself as abnormal until he encountered Yandere. Their vim and vigour sparked him, and it brought the man so much joy to hear the youth and the passion that engulfed them. It was an experience.

'Senpai is my everything, there is nothing I wouldn’t do…..they have a control, but it’s a control that I want them to have…..’

Yandere’s deep, onyx eyes gazed at the embers in the fireplace as they mumbled softly, clearly in deep thought about the person that they held most dear. Walter bore a light smile, the intensity surrounding Yandere was engulfing and drawing him in, making him want to hear more as he cocked his head.

'Your dedication is marvellous, it won’t be long before your Senpai is head over heels for you.’

Yandere felt their chest swell with pride as they turned to Walter with a wide, gracious smile. Walter smiled more wholeheartedly, because he meant it; Walter wasn’t the kind to say something to appease someone else, and Yandere knew that.

'Oh I know! Hardly anything stands in my way, I’ve been very thorough….’

Walter felt himself grin at Yandere’s light reference to their, not entirely legal, exploits and adventures; to be perfectly honest, Walter was still in awe over how exactly they’d managed to achieve some of them. 

'Indeed, your extra-curricular activities are wondrous to hear about…..’

Yandere grinned a let out a small, bashful giggle at the playfulness in Walter’s voice; they smoothed down their top and their neckerchief as Walter chuckled lightly, managing to catch sight of the bashfulness.

'I mean it! Don’t go getting modest now Yan!’

Yandere let out another giggle as Walter raised one of his eyebrows, his grin was wide and cheeky as Yandere narrowed their eyes fractionally.

'As if I would even consider being such a thing.’

Walter snickered with a light sigh as he observed Yandere turn to face the fire again, lights and sparks flickering in their eyes as they inspected the flames with intent interest. Walter meanwhile, just looked at them. He took in their expression, and how gentle it seemed when Yandere was relaxed. It wasn’t just their face that was like this either, since their entire form was lightly slumped and reflected their calm demeanour; it made Walter wonder how someone who seemed so innocent could carry out such acts of brashness.

'What? What is it?’

Walter was pulled from his thoughts when Yandere spoke softly and with a hint if uncertainty; Walter hadn’t realised he’d been staring at Yandere for a little while, and he proceeded to smile with a shrug.

'It’s just…..you strike me as so innocent, and I cannot even begin to picture you murdering someone.’

Yandere furrowed their eyebrows, straightening their back as they replied, with a small glimmer of indignance in their tone.

'Well looks can be deceiving, I am definitely not innocent…..’

Yandere trailed off as they gently folded their arms at their chest, expression set resolutely as Walter tried to dim down his wide grin; Yandere was trying way too hard. Walter couldn’t blame them though, especially due to who they have to live up to. Walter still grinned though, letting out a small hum as he muttered underneath Yandere’s curious scrutiny.

'Alright, perhaps not innocent……I think adorable is a hell of a lot more accurate.’

Yandere blinked rapidly, letting out a little splutter as they observed how Walter’s tone had a teasing edge; the former pursed their lips as they replied immediately.

'I am not adorable, in ANY way!’

Walter chuckled at Yandere’s insistence as he saw their lips twitch in their pursed state, which ended up in their expression looking rather like a pout. Yandere held their head up high as they awaited Walter’s response, admittedly with a hint of trepidation.

'Mm…..well I think you are! That little pout of your just speaks for itself!’

Yandere felt their cheeks heat up with rapid embarrassment as they observed Walter’s taunting smirk……which only sent more blood to their cheeks as they fidgeted.

'Sh-shut up……’

Yandere’s mind was too jumbled to make a proper retort, so they just decided to mumble and shuffle so they had their back to him; arms still folded at their chest as Walter snickered.

'Awww, you’re not going to sulk are you?’

Yandere twisted their lips in thought, before deciding to remain insistently silent; this only made Walter’s eyes gleam as his grin morphed into a smirk. Little did Yandere know that Walter was used to dealing with the silent treatment in the form of when he and his brother were younger; Wilford had perfected it before he’d even learnt to walk. Walter shuffled closer to Yandere, who tensed as they strained their ears.

'Silence eh? Hm……would you like to know why that is a reeeally bad idea?’

At Walter’s light tone, a shiver went down Yandere’s spine; and their voice came out as a whisper, since they felt compelled to respond.

’……wh-why?’

Yandere didn’t have time to curse their stammer before Walter leant in behind them; moustache twitching as his lips curled into a devious sneer.

'Rule one. Never…….ignore……a Warfstache.’

Yandere gulped as Walter’s words fluttered and echoed in their ears, and they jumped harshly when Walter’s broad arms snaked round their midriff and pulled them into his lap. Yan was so taken aback that their arms flailed, eyes widening as they found themselves looking up at Walter; since they now lay in his lap. Walter let out a small chuckle as Yandere hurried to stammer.

'Wh-what the hell? L-let me g-go…..I-I’m warning you!’

They tried to strengthen their voice, but they only partially succeeded which made Walter chuckle more; Yandere was so cute when they were trying so hard, ironically, to be the exact opposite. Walter leant over them, his face directly over theirs as he whispered.

'You’re warning me? Well now how intriguing…..what is it that you intend to do if I don’t release you?’

Walter raised an eyebrow as Yandere went to open their mouth, but their confidence was stuck along with their voice as they averted their eyes; cheeks going pinker from embarrassment.

’……..I-I……..u-uhm……..’

Their speechlessness made it extremely difficult for Walter not to “aww” out loud as he observed them. He waited a few moments before he spoke, his voice was laced with a teasing tone that could make anyone shudder.

'That’s what I thought. I think it’s about time that someone showed you your place……’

Yandere blinked a few times as their nerves built up, their eyes were fixed on Walter as he suddenly took Yandere’s wrists in one hand and held them at their chest; Walter snickered at Yandere’s silence, and decided to just get the shown on the road.

’……which is, that even though you’re strong……it doesn’t stop you being indisputably adorable.’

Yandere to barely begin to think of a retort before a squeaky gasp left their lips; both their smile and their eyes widened…..they really should have been keeping a watch on Walter’s free hand. Because now, it had descended  and started scratching all over Yandere’s top covered tummy. Oh dear.

'N-nohoho! Y-yohou gehet a-awahahahahay!’

Yandere tried to exclaim, but giggles overran their voice-box as they squirmed and tugged at their wrists; but Walter’s grip was unwavering. Yandere was totally at his mercy.

'Look at you still trying to give commands! It’s just so adooooorable!’

Walter cooed as he pinched the areas of light tummy pudge, which made Yandere squawk and yelp haphazardly whilst blushing darker at the teasing; they tried to muster up a glare.

'Nohoho ihit ihisn’t! Ihit ihisn’t dahammihihit!’

Walter let out a disbelieving hum, sniggering as he prodded Yan’s light abdominals; relishing in the sharp inhales, and the failure to repress squeals. Walter loved their insistence more than anything though, it gave him so much to play with.

'Oh but it is……look already at how your resolve has fizzled away, leaving you in such a bubbly and cute state-’

'Sh-shuhut uhuhup oho g-gahad shuhut uhuuuup!’

Yandere interrupted with a whine as they could no longer hold back their squeaks and giggle fits, their body jumping and flinching at the cheeky sporadity; Walter narrowed his eyes a little.

'Honestly, I try to compliment you and THAT’S how you treat me? This really has been a looong time coming for you……’

Walter’s tone lowered into a purr as he tutted, thus properly turning Yandere’s cheeks crimson as their struggles increased; and yet they weren’t extremely desperate, as of yet. Yandere’s eyes were wide as they followed Walter, who had started to lean down towards their ear as if they were about to whisper; Yandere had other ideas though.

'Nohoho ihit hahasn’t! Yohou’re juhust tryihing tohoo hard toho be scahahary!’

Yandere insisted as they tried to crane their neck away, with Walter still approaching them. But at their words, Walter stopped. His breaths were slow, and Yandere nibbled their lip as he felt them flutter around his neck and collar……and it got worse when Walter spoke.

'So defiant……and yet so unwise. You’re only bringing this on yourself Yan, just so you know.’

Yandere shivered with a light gulp, but then squealed harshly as Walter leant down to bury his face in their neck; he nuzzled and growled deeply as he still holding their wrists and kept them captive on his lap; you could tell, he had experience.

'NAHAHAT THEHEHERE! OHO GAHAD NOHOHOOOO!’

Yandere tried to scrunch their shoulders, but they couldn’t escape it. The nibbling was bad enough, but with the added feature of Walter’s moustache brushing every inch of sensitive skin they had……well, it made them a cackling mess.

'Yes heeeere…….mmm, you’re aaaall mine to snack on and tickle tickle tickle…..’

Walter growled and snarled which sent extra vibrations through Yandere’s system, as well as contributing to their widespread blush; Yandere couldn’t even fight against the teasing anymore. Walter nipped down Yan’s neck, and even administered a brief one to their collar bone; and was amazed to hear a screech.

'NONONOHOHOHO FUHUHUHUCK!!’

Yandere gasped and thrashed, tugging at their arms in vain as they heard Walter chuckle; they knew they were in for it now.

'Oooooh, what an intriguing spot…….this means I have even more to devour!’

Walter smirked as Yandere frantically shook their head and threw it back in their mirth, and a near-mad smile was stretched across their face as Walter continued his devious work. He substituted nibbles for raspberries though, all along the delicate bones; Yandere, as you can imagine, was extremely grateful.

'AHAHAHAAAHHH YOHOU CAHAHAHAAAN’T!!’

Walter chuckled, grinning as he looked up to Yandere for a moment; his voice was deep, sharp, and inherently mischievous.

'Oh but I can. And I am. And I will continue unless you admit the plain and simple fact…..’

Through his speech, the hand of Walter’s that had been on Yandere’s tummy had resumed giving out little scratches and pokes; Tummy, sides, navel, waist, it was most efficient. Yandere was encased in high-pitched cackles as they attempted a reply.

’….n-nohohohohohoo……’

Their voice was whimpery, and Walter externally disregarded their words, smirking as he whispered with beautifully taunting intent.

’…..that you, are unquestionably cute.’

Yandere was yelping and squirming and shivering as they endured Walter’s tingle-inducing words, as well as the tickly touches……which had now moved to their thighs. Walter’s fingers effectively splayed and pinched, making Yandere cry out as they breathlessly rambled and cackled.

'IHI’LL NEHEVER SAHAY IHIHIHIT!!’

Walter raised an eyebrow, rolling his eyes as he began to lean back into Yandere’s neck.

'Oho we’ll see…..’

However, said victim stopped him in his tracks with a wild cry.

'OHO GOD NOT THE BACKS! NOT THE BACKS!!!’

Walter paused, lips curling into a curious smirk as he rose up and away from Yandere’s neck; he glanced down to where his fingertips had swept and started to curl at the backs of Yandere’s thighs. Walter flicked his eyes to Yandere, who gulped as Walter lightened his voice.

'Ohhh…..now what do we have here?’

Yandere had no time to speak before they were being rolled off Walter’s lap so they were lying on their front on the rug; the immediatly hastened to start crawling away…..but a weight on their shins hindered that. Yandere could hear their own heart beating frantically as Walter hummed.

'Hey, look I know you want to impress your Senpai; but……this skirt? Sheesh Yan…..’

Yandere spluttered and let out a stream of embarrassed giggles as Walter chuckled at them, before looking back to the area of importance. It just so happened that the lengths of Yandere’s skirt and stockings allowed their thighs to be bare, but not so bare for any contact to be miscontrude or potentially leading to discomfort. Yandere mumbled, cheeks red with their blush.

’D-dohon’t do th-this……n-nohot there……’

Yandere cursed their weak voice as they tensed and clenched their fists, meanwhile Walter spoke in an airy tone that was filled to the brim with a taunting aura.

'If you don’t want to go through this, then you know what to say…….this is your last chance…..’

At Walter’s teasing command, Yandere let out a little gasp as their brain tried to work and process everything at an impossible speed. Yandere was so torn. Do they sacrifice their pride…..or their sanity? After a few seconds, Yandere let out a light giggle as they realised…..they’d lost their sanity long ago.

'I-I will not s-say it. Ever.’

The stammers were still there, which made Walter grin amidst his surprise at Yandere’s defiance; actually, who was he kidding. Walter had not only anticipated this, but he’d also hoped for it.

'Fine, your funeral Yan!’

Walter chuckled as he set to work, letting his fingertips scratch and dance over the backs over their thighs with an intense ruthlessness; Yandere meanwhile……had unleashed their inner banshee.

'NAHAHAHAHA!!! WAHAHAHAHAL!!!’

Yandere’s eyes were nearly bugging out of their sockets as Yan screeched and banged their fists on the foor; they wailed and gasped as Walter let out a few gentle laughs. This was like a spectator sport.

'Come now Yan, you know you can’t take this……’

Walter’s tease was stunningly malevolent, and Yandere felt it melt in their ears; it was all they could focus on amidst their hysteria and crimson visage.

'NOHOHOHOHO MOHOHOHOHOHORE!!!’

Yandere was squealing as tears pricked at the corners of their eyes, especially since Walter was now squeezing the sensitive flesh; tsunami waves of ticklishness were forced through Yandere’s poor, poor system. Walter liked to think that he was a merciful man, but his need for victory always took precedence.

'Two. Little. Words.’

He punctuated each word with pinches to just above the backs of Yan’s knees……which rendered them utterly broken.

'AHAHAHAHAHHHHH!!! IHIHIHI’M CUHUHUHUHUTE!!!’

Yandere’s eyes were squeezed shut as they heard Walter hum contentedly, and he mumbled to Yandere with a grin.

'Yes. Yes you are.’

Walter chuckled when Yandere let out another desperate shriek.

'IHIHIHI’LL DOHOHO AHANYTHIHIHIHIHI!!!’

Yandere’s partial incoherency and serious desperation spurred Walter to relent; he smiled as he shuffled off from Yandere’s legs. The owner of said limbs just lay there as Walter peered at them.

'Anything huh? Well first of all, breath.’

Yandere grinned widely with a breathy giggle, and their eyes were fixed on Walter as he guided them to inhale and exhale well; after a few minutes, Yandere’s sanity……well some of it, was restored. They let Walter help them to sit up on the rug as they muttered.

'Th-thahat…..was diabolical.’

Yandere almost sounded like they were in disbelief, which showed how the intensity had reallly been……and experience. Walter’s eyes lit up as he snickered, and gently pulled Yandere into his chest so they could nestle in as he replied.

'Thank you, I endeavour to try my best. Just like you.’

Yandere inhaled lightly, an amazed smile staying rooted in place as Walter grinned…..and decided to introduce melons into the conversation. Yandere listened intently, and was fascinated by Walter’s tales and how his passions seemed to mirror’s theirs. It is honestly a delight, when you find that you have something in common with someone. That is indisputable. But, when that something is a thing that’s profound, like the love or passion you feel, then it’s really special. That sort of connection is beautiful, just like sparks from a fire.

———————————————————————————————————–

We’re doing well, we’re over half-way I think. Now we have another little wander, into another room in fact.  The kitchen here is a few metres away with cabinets and utilities that are essential, and otherwise boring. The part we’re faced with is much nicer and more interesting, since its main feature is a beech-wood dining table and chairs that is laden with a plethora of savoury snacks. Courtesy of a number of gentlemen, whose haphazard and unique personalities are key for such a task. Those people of course, are Bingiplier and The Jims.

'Jim do you have the cashews?’

'The cashews Jim?’

'Yes the cashews Jim.’

'Yes Jim, I just put them between the roasted peanuts and salted pretzels.’

'Ah, very good Jim! Nice arrangement!’

'Why thank you Jim!’

……..yes, that is how the conversation went and is in fact how the majority of the conversations between the Jims go. If I’m to be more specific, these two Jims are reporters; so it’s understandable that speed and efficiency are a part of their characters. Meanwhile, as bowls and platters were being shifted, we have Bing. He snickered as his burnt, orange eyes flicked between them both; he’d be completely content to just watch the pair of them. You’d never be bored. Although, he felt the need to contribute.

'Uh, guys?’

The Jims turned to him , eyes gently blinking as they both smiled and cocked their heads.

'Yes Bing?’

The spoke in sync, which Bing shook off since it was a constant occurrence.

'We uh, need breadsticks.’

Both their eyes seemed to widen before they burst into rapid fire conversing, commenting and generally rambling. Bing grinned as he watched them, leaning his hip on the side of the table.

'Oh the breadsticks!’

'Yes the breadsticks!’

'Fantastic Bing!’

'Yes Bing, you are a marvel!’

'This is why you’re better than Google!’

'Oh definitely!’

Bing felt himself start giggling, and so went to cover his mouth as the Jims shot off to the cupboards to search for their forgotten snack; not even waiting for Bing to reply. Not that he would have been able to since he was too damn stunned by what they said……I mean, wow. Bing shook his head and looked over the array of food, and he could feel his system becoming jittery with the thought of actually tucking in. Even though a being like Bing didn’t need food, he still reeeeally loved it. He flicked his eyes to the Jims, and they were both occupied…..so Bing figured that this was his chance. His hand shot forth to the bowl of cashews where he swiped a handful and shoved them in his mouth, and Bing smiled as he shut his eyes momentarily as he crunched and relished in their taste; dammit, now he was just even more hungry. But he didn’t want to risk exposure. He brushed his hand on the back of his jeans…..just as the Jims turned around; and they didn’t hesitate to comment curiously.

'Bing why are you brushing your buttocks?’

'Do they itch?’

'Is it a nervous tick?’

'It would be a rather strange nervous tick……’

'You could talk to Dr Iplier!’

Bing felt himself grin and splutter as he waved his hands at them both, repressing a few giggles.

'Nah guys, my jeans were just kinda creased…..I don’t have a habit of nervous butt brushing.’

'Ohhhhh…..’

Both Jims sighed in sync as they smiled, immediately going back to food arrangement as Bing let out a gentle sigh; dear god, he bet that even the Host wouldn’t be able to predict half the things that the Jims came up with. That did make them unique and special though. Bing went back to observing, despite how he was starting to get gradually more and more bored…..as well as hungry. Bing’s stomach was yearning for more, and Bing was having to fight the urge to salivate at a constant rate as even more crisps were brought out; oh the temptations.

'Ah, remember the doritos for Anti, we want a happy glitch on our hands Jim.’

'Well said Jim, do we use regular cool or tangy cheese flavour?’

'Hm……both, just to be safe Jim.’

And now Bing could smell doritos, dear god this was actual torture. Bing thought for a moment, then sighed as he internally decided; f*** it.

'Uh, what about celery sticks? We don’t want an unhappy edgelord either.’

Bing’s voice was slightly higher than usual, but the Jims didn’t notice even as they looked to him; their expressions were resolute as they agreed.

'We definitely don’t want that, do we Jim?’

'Certainly not Jim; although I find it ironic that the most bitter snack is consumed by the most bitter person in existence.’

'I must agree Jim, one would have thought he didn’t need any more bitterness on his person.’

Bing fought the urge to burst out laughing as the Jims went to the fridge, the way that their playful jabs at Dark bounced off of each other was just stunning; but now, Bing hastened to claim his prize…..and he did it successfully. Bing had a satisfied smile on his face as he went to brush off his hand again…..but then he looked back to the other two men in the room; Bing’s eyes widened when he saw one of the Jims, specifically the reporter in silver, staring at him. Oddly enough though, he had a small smile in place.

'Jim…..we have a traitor in our midst.’

Bing gulped as the other Jim, in blue, turned to his twin with interest in his eyes, before looking to Bing; he however didn’t get a chance to speak, since Bing’s babbling filled the room. He was clearly trying to excuse his actions.

'H-hey guys, look i-it was only two handfuls of nuts, and I’m super hungry! I haven’t eaten since like 6pm!’

Bing looked to them both, fingers fidgeting as the Jims listened; but Bing noted that BOTH of them were smiling gently now. Jim silver started off their train of statements.

'It’s not about the nuts themselves, it’s the principle.’

'You went behind our backs Bing.’

'Your intentions may have been innocent…’

'But this is a betrayal of trust.’

'Betrayal deserves punishment.’

Bing was hurriedly trying to keep up, and it was only thanks to his software that he managed to actually register anything. By that point though…..it was too late; Bing’s fate was sealed in the form of two reporters…..smiling, and approaching at speed.

'W-woah h-hey c'mon, you don’t need to do this! We c-can ju-AH!’

Bing had been backing away with hands lightly raised, his lips twitching from his nerves as the Jims had been pacing towards him; they had been going slowly…..but then had suddenly lunged forward and brought him to the floor. Jim blue held his wrists as Bing fell to the floor on his back, thankfully on the fluffy rug rather than the tiles. Jim silver had sat next to him as he seemed to smile wider.

'It’s too late for you Bing, if only you’d managed to restrain yourself…..’

'At least now we can do it for you!’

Jim blue let out a small snicker as he kept his hold secure on Bing’s wrists, even as he tugged; said man’s gaze flicked between them both, he gulped and wriggled in anticipation. What did they plan to do? Jim silver had rolled up his sleeves, and his words had been spoken clearly and serenely; despite his calm tone though, Bing could tell that he was excited.

'Wh-what are y-you gonna do?’

Bing’s voice was high and quiet, and the Jims seemed to become elated at the sound of it; Jim silver started off.

'Since your stomach has been vying for attention…..’

'Then we might as well help it from the outside!’

Bing was confused for a moment…..but then he yipped, and the confusion dissipated in favour of embarrassment and impending giddiness. Jim silver’s hands had started to prod and probe Bing’s tummy, slipping under his vest to get to the bare skin.

'Nononohohohoho! Dohon’t doho thihis oho gahahad Ihi’m sahaharry!’

Bing was already giggling as he tugged at his wrists, but Jim blue still held tight as he smiled to his twin; there was a strong inference of deviousness as he began their next spiel.

'Oh but we forgave you instantly!’

'We’re only helping your tummy!’

'By giving it the attention it clearly wants, right Jim?’

'Exactly! And it looks like my probing is doing well!’

Bing was quickly being reduced to a snorting, squeaking mess as his tummy was scratched and pinched by Jim silver’s nimble fingers; even through the light torment though, Bing could see their poorly disguised mischief.

'Nohohoho ihit ihisn’t! Yohou’re bohoth lyihing fihibbehehehers!!’

Both Jims let out little, surprised gasps as they looked to one another, seemingly stunned; Bing, as a result, started to regret his words as both Jims looked back down at him.

'Fibbers?! Well that’s rude!’

'We are no such thing, right Jim?’

'Damn right Jim! Goodness, I have never been so offended!’

'Nor I Jim!’

Through their conversation, Bing’s giggling had morphed into cackles veeeeery quickly as Jim silver’s fingers had spontaneously shot up to his ribs; the pads of his fingers massaged the bones as Bing thrashed about.

'WAHAHAIT WAHAIT NOHOHO! FAHACK IHIHI’M SAHAHAHARRY!!’

Jim silver snickered as he watched Bing with mischievous curiosity, and Jim blue did just the same. Bing’s wild reactions just, the whole concept of tickling intrigued them actually; the Jims loved it. They loved seeing how it could destroy the stubborn, wipe away the morose, enhance the smallest flicker of joy, and get rid of any tension that a person may be burdened with. The Jims also loved when they had an excuse to administer it, like with Bing. So they figured they’d make the most of it.

'We said we’d already forgiven you! Goodness, what a reaction!’

'Just from some very simple actions too…..’

The pair of them paused, and even through his hysterical cackling Bing could sense that there was something coming; and he had no way to fight back. Jim blue spoke again, very slowly.

'It does make me wonder if other areas would elicit such responses…..’

'I wondered the same thing Jim!’

'Perhaps we should pay attention to some other spots, just so they don’t feel left out!’

'Excellent idea Jim! And we wouldn’t want to be accused of favouritism…..’

As Jim silver trailed off, his fingertips trailed away from their torment at Bing’s ribs; their owner was left gasping and in a giggly daze as his eyes widened. Ohhhh he really was screwed; if only he’d managed to control his need for nuts.

'F-Fuhuhuhuck guys plehehehease! Nohowhehere ehehelse…..’

Bing then trailed off with a rather pitiful whine as he squirmed, since Jim silver’s fingertips were absently trailing round his sides and even near the droid’s back; at least, as far as his fingers could worm themselves. The Jims chuckled melodiously.

'But why Bing? Surely the rest of you deserves some care?’

'Come on Bing, let us be kind…..’

Bing was giggling as his cheeks burned a rusty, tangerine colour; all because of how flustered he was….the Jims were seriously good with their nonchalant teasing. Bing was so unfocused, that he didn’t resist when Jim blue shifted so he could pin Bing’s arms under his knees, thus stretching them above his head. This mean that Jim blue now had both hands free, poor Bing.

'Sh-shihihit…..b-buhut t-…..tihihicklihing ihis tohorturohohous!!’

Bing’s eyes were wide as he looked between his two captors pleadingly, but he found the butterflies in his tummy flutter incessantly when the pair smirked at him. Despite them being the same, their expressions still had light differences. Jim blue’s smirk was wide, cheeky and extremely boyish; whereas Jim silver’s was thinner, and had a distinct aura of mischief. They contrasted beautifully as Bing’s nervous system braced itself, all the while the Jims spoke.

'But Bing, don’t you get it?’

'That’s what makes it more fun!’

As soon as Jim silver’s words had left his lips, both Jims had started their tickly work. Jim blue’s fingertips had lowered and started endlessly fluttering at Bing’s neck and ears; such poor, delicate areas.

'Nahahahahaha! Nahahahat fohor mehehehe!!’

Bing had squealed and now tossed his head about, grinning from ear to ear as Jim blue snickered down at him. Jim silver meanwhile, was also gentle, since he was engaging in a more exploratory venture. His fingertips roamed over Bing’s sides, ribs, tummy, waist…..basically anywhere that could be considered remotely sensitive; all the while the Jims spoke brightly.

'Oh don’t lie to us Bing! We can see how happy you are!’

'Yeah Bing! You know you’re loving our tickles!’

The matter-of-fact way in which they spoke only embarrassed Bing more as his torso squirmed and flinched, and Bing was just entirely encased by giddy joy.

'Dohohohon’t pohoint ihit ohohout yohou pohohoopehers!!’

The Jims each raised an eyebrow in shock as they kept up their gentleness……they couldn’t believe that Bing had actually admitted it, without them even having to ask him to! Although, when they looked upon his shivery, flustered form they realised that any sense of focus had just simply flown away. Jim blue kept flicking and tracing Bing’s ears to keep him giggling and yelping. whilst Jim silver stayed absent as he mumbled.

'But we must…..such an adorable truth can’t be hidden away…..’

'Precisely! Such cuteness in general should never be repressed Bing, and I’m surprised that no-one else has discovered this sooner!’

Bing had no choice but to squeeze his eyes shut as he shook his head even faster, which the Jims chuckled at with strong fondness. Bing was moments away from actually fighting back with some moderately focused words…..but that was not to be.

'NONONO NOT THERE OHO GAD IHI’LL DIE!!!’

Bing very nearly shrieked as he felt Jim silver’s fingertips brush over his hipbones. Now, I know you’re probably thinking that this is an area that will coax out some hysteria; that is incorrect. Bing felt so frantic because this spot…..would melt him beyond belief. The Jims were inherently curious, so they didn’t stop themselves.

'Oh really?’

'I doubt that very much, don’t you Jim?’

'I do indeed Jim…..’

Bing whimpered a little, but soon let out a weak cry as Jim silver’s thumbs started to rub the bones in slow, teasing circles. Both Jims watched with glee as Bing shivered and arched his back, giggling deeply as he let out little hums.

'Ohoho….g-gahahahad…..nahat heheheeeere…..’

As each second passed by, Bing could feel himself turning into mushy putty at the Jims’ focused work; his hips were being given ample attention, and his neck and ears were tickled with the lightest, most evil precision. The Jims…..were actually in awe.; they were amazed at how Bing just melted.

'But Bing, this seems to have a really relaxing effect on you…..’

'A melting effect, correct Jim?’

'Indeed Jim. And since you’ve succumbed so easily, it would be mean of us to deny you this…..’

The words barely registered in Bing’s circuits as he wriggled, his head rolling back as a gentle, lazy smile stayed etched on his face. The tingles and waves that were shooting through Bing’s system were…..indescribable. The area seemed to be some sort of nerve hotspot, which as you can see was highly convenient for his current captors.

'Mmm…..g-guys c'mohohohoooon…..Ihi cahahahan’t…..’

The Jims could see that Bing was reaching his limit, but they did take a few moments to relish in Bing’s state and demeanour…..because it was stunning. His body, relaxed, his smile open and joyous along with his glinting orange eyes and blazing burnt cheeks. The Jims shared a glance…..before they then relented.

'In that case, we shall grant you mercy…..on this occasion.’

'Indeed, but you should watch yourself in the future Bing…..’

'You never know who might pounce!’

As Bing regained his breath, he giggled and sighed in relief as fingers were retracted and the ability to use limbs was restored. Bing hugged his body tightly as he averted his gaze from their smirking faces; he was still so embarrassed.

'Sh-shuhush…..’

At Bing’s muffled mumble, the Jims let out a collective snicker; and they also decided something. They both stood, and Bing could hear shuffling before he jumped, since a bowl had been shoved in front of his face. A bowl…..containing cashews. Bing flicked his eyes up, and grinned at the sight of the Jims; they had deviance dancing in their eyes, and kindness prancing in their hearts. Bing accepted the bowl…..and tucked in. Hugging his knees on a rug, a few metres away from where there were tasks to be carried out. However, Bing and the Jims knew something. It’s not really a task if it’s something you want to do…..because then it becomes a privilege.

———————————————————————————————————–

When observing Bing, the phrase “working hard or hardly working” came to mind; I bring this up, because the first half of this phrase certainly applies to a certain man at the moment. We’re going to have to wander a bit, through a few corridors, but eventually we reach our destination. This is one of my favourite rooms, since it mixes work and play so to speak. With its crescent shaped desk with ample technology, and the gargantuan couch-bed hued with contrasting pinks gives the room a wholesome feel. When you have quite a work centred life, it’s important to have something comfy to fall back on when you take your much needed and deserved breaks. Wilford Warfstache, one of the two who used this room, knew and understood that. Bim Trimmer however…..did not. Bim was at the desk, rifling through e-mails and countless drafts of scripts needed for the new year; the guy never knew when to stop.

Wilford knew this. The vibrant man was on the path that we’d just come from, going down corridors with the intent of hauling Bim’s workaholic ass out of that room so they could celebrate the eve of a new year of shenanigans; those are his words, just to clarify. He bounded through the door, entering loudly as per; Bim merely rolled his eyes as he stayed focused on the screen before him, he knew why Wilford was here.

'Trimmer, shift it! That’s an order!’

Wilford exclaimed with fists on his hips, his expression set resolutely as he stared at the back of Bim’s head; and when Bim didn’t immediately respond Wilford stalked forward. Bim saw him partially in the reflection of the monitor, and smiled weakly with a sigh.

'Look, we both know how much needs to be done…..you deserve to have fun tonight babes, just leave me to it and it’ll get done quicker.’

Wilford twisted his lips at Bim’s light tone…..it’s clear that some of his own stubbornness had rubbed off on his work-obsessed boyfriend. Wilford knew that Bim meant well, he always did, but this was New Year’s Eve dammit! This was the WORLD’S exception! Wilford huffed, his bottom lip sticking out as he paced closer to Bim so he was standing right behind him; he let out a childish whine.

'But how am I meant to have fun if you’re not with meeee?’

Bim smiled a little wider at his tone, all the while he clicked through spreadsheets whilst mumbling softly.

'You’ll find a way sweetie, you always do….’

Wilford was the definition of dissatisfied, and a little annoyed too; did Bim really not want to spend time with him? It was a special occasion too. Wilford was silent, which unfortunately meant that his mind has started to…..work on overdrive. I suffer from this sometimes, overthinking. When something is said, or if the way it’s said seems even fractionally different then my brain can just spin and wind together scenarios and eventualities that are completely horrible and unrealistic; but my mind will convince me that they’re entirely rational. Wilford was doing this. Bim didn’t want to spend time with him on New Year’s Eve, so did that mean he didn’t want to spend time with him at all? Was Bim going off him? Did Bim find his need for company and attention annoying and tedious? Wilford swallowed harshly, fidgeting with his fingers as he whispered.

'Bim……please.’

Bim immediately caught Wilford’s change in tone; previously he’d been excited, and wonderfully bombastic as he usually was…..but now he seemed to sound almost upset. Bim whirled round in his chair, and he felt a jolt in his stomach as he saw Wilford’s form slump and his energy die out; Bim cautiously whispered.

'Hey…..hey Wilfy, it’s okay…..’

Wilford stayed still, looking down at his feet as Bim rose from his seat; he only had to take a single step before he was right in front of him. Bim nibbled his lip nervously as he raised his hand and placed it under Wilford’s jaw, and he tilted it up so they could look at each other properly; that was when Bim realised…..this meant a lot to Wilford. And Bim would be lying if he said it didn’t mean a lot to him too.

’S-sorry I uh, heh, I just wanted to….y'know……h-have the New Year with you……’

Wilford tripped over his words a little as he hugged his middle, all the while his eyes flicked about nervously and with uncertainty. However, that jitteriness did die down a little when he felt Bim’s thumb run over his jawline, softly and in a gently soothing manner; it gave Wilford the confidence to look at Bim who was smiling lightly.

'Sweetheart…..I’d be a madman if I decided to spend tonight doing anything else.’

Wilford blinked a few times as Bim’s words sunk in, but then he felt warmth bubble in his chest as Bim leant forward and kissed his lips softly. Bim was slow as he smiled, deciding to pull Wilford’s suspenders so he stumbled fractionally; Wilford’s cheeks were tinged pink as they kissed for what seemed like a rather long while, but they eventually pulled away slowly. Bim felt himself grin lightly.

'I’m sorry for being a work obsessed idiot.’

Wilford let out a little sigh, rolling his eyes a little as he mumbled with a small smile; his paranoia had dissipated and flaked away like the weak thing it was.

'Well you can’t help being a dedicated, talented individual…..’

Bim gasped with a smile as he placed a hand on his chest, usually compliments like this would fluster him; tonight however, Bim was filled with bold joy.

'Oh Wilford…..oh how you make my heart a'flutter!’

Wilford grinned and let out a giggle, using a hand to cover his mouth as Bim drew back and performed a light twirl; Wilford shook his head at him……dear god he was so perfect.

'Oh my gohod shut up ya goofus!’

At Wilford’s reaction Bim grinned, shuffling forward to give a little boop to the man’s pink cheek. Wilford only smiled more as he batted Bim’s hands away, but didn’t protest when Bim’s arms snaked round his waist to hold him close.

'Now THAT is more like it! We are not leaving this room until that little smile stays put!’

Bim’s own smile was cheeky as he saw Wilford’s cheeks get pinker, god he loved it when he got the chance to be the flusterer; Wilford’s reactions were just the most precious things in existence. Wilford was indeed flustered, but that didn’t mean that his defiant nature had been dimmed. Bim observed Wilford as he looked to him, and the man’s gentle grin suddenly morphed into a small, childish pout. Bim raised an eyebrow.

'Ohh……that’s how it’s going to be is it?’

Wilford knawed on his bottom lip as he averted his eyes, desperately repressing his smile as Bim’s only developed into a stunning, gentle smirk. He was elated. Bim relished in the light shiver that Wilford exhibited as he pulled him closer, watching carefully as the man mumbled delicately.

'Mhm…..’

Wilford’s heart was already beating faster…..and he could have sworn that it had stopped when Bim suddenly giggled.

'Oh I am gonna have so much fun forcing you!’

Wilford’s eyes widened as he squeaked, since Bim had swept him into a bridal hold in a flash as he bounded to the heavily draped couch; Wilford gasped as he was dropped as Bim’s weight settled on his thighs. The sight of Bim gazing down at him…..wholly handsome and mischievous; it gave Wilford the most glorious butterflies.

'Oh no……..’

Wilford’s words were barely audible, but Bim’s heard them and smirked wider as a result. He leant over Wilford, giggling again as he pecked his lips and whispered.

'I bet you’re sooooo jittery, because you know what I’m gonna dooooo…..’

Bim’s quiet words held a hint of a coo as his hands shifted to trail up and down Wilford’s sides, just to gently warm him up for what was to come. Lets be honest, Wilford was never going to not smile. His lips only twitched for a second before he was grinning widely, with giggles spewing from his lips as he squirmed.

'B-Bihimmy noho tihihicklihing!’

Bim let out a content hum, his tummy bubbling at the nickname as he relished in Wilford’s giggly state; he loved it when he was like this, especially when it was all from Bim’s touch. It was made even better by the fact that Wilford didn’t fight back, or even try to; he just loved it way too much.

'But you loooove the tickling! You love it when my hands are all over you…..’

Wilford spluttered and blushed at Bim’s lowered tone, giggling even harder as Bim’s fingertips snuck under his shirt to scratch at his tummy and waist. Bim’s eyes were glittering as he watched Wilford hurriedly go to cover his burning cheeks.

'Ohohoho my gahad yohou cheheeky bahastahahard!’

Wilford’s smile was wide, just like his bright brown eyes that were alight with his mirth and embarrassment. At Wilford’s words, Bim narrowed his eyes and grasped the beautiful opportunity that they offered; he lunged to bury his face into Wilford’s neck, nuzzling and growling as he properly dug into his belly.

'What the hell did you just call me? You wanna repeat that for me sweet-cheeks?’

Wilford squealed and writhed as he burst into bubbly cackles, he was gasping and squeaking as his words tumbled out like a landslide.

'NONONOHOHOHO IHI’M SAHARRY IHI’M SAHARRY IHI DIHIDN’T MEHEAN IHIHIT!’

Bim chuckled as he kept up his rapid nuzzling, grinning as he kissed and nipped at a little spot under Wilford’s ear which got him to snort magnificently; that’s the thing about being in a couple…..you know every single damn spot.

'You better not have meant it…..or there would have been seeeerious consequences.’

Wilford shivered as his cheeks went properly crimson, god the verbal teasing combined with Bim’s damn teasing lips was going to be the utter death of him. Bim placed a sloppy kiss on Wilford’s ear before he reared up to look over his handiwork, and he was more than satisfied with the handsome rapscallion that greeted his eyes. Wilford was a beautiful mess, with hair mussed and smile wide and unencumbered as he mumbled.

'Ohoho….g-gohohod yohou meheanihie…..’

Well now…..Bim spied another opportunity. He let out a purposefully loud sigh as all of his movements stilled, and it only took Wilford a few moments to realise what he’d said; he looked up to Bim with wide eyes as he hurried to stammer.

'A-ah no, I didn’t me-’

'Quiet.’

Bim’s voice was low, and bore a tone of command that it never usually had; Wilford bit back his words, gulping as Bim’s eyes became narrowed and fixed upon him. You wouldn’t think that Bim, sweet, innocent little Bim could be remotely intimidating; but with his soft, well thought out words…..he could send many a chill through your system. Bim started to tut, words flowing out slowly.

'I don’t think I have ever met anyone, more deserving of punishment than you. You’re asking for it every time you open up that rude, little mouth…..’

As Bim spoke, he’d reached to run his thumb across Wilford’s bottom lip, as Wilford simply gazed up at him; transfixed and agape, with his heart beating faster in nerves and anticipation. Wilford’s blush was blazing like a beacon too, just hearing Bim talk about…..the “p’ 'word made him shiver; oh god, what was he going to do to him? Wilford let out a little gasp as both of Bim’s hands moved, his fingertips grazing down Wilford’s sides.

'B-bahaby…….Ihi’m sohorreheheee…..’

Wilford’s whimpery giggles made Bim smirk wider, and the sight of Wilford squirming beneath him meant that Bim was insanely elated; and he let out a light chuckle when Wilford flinched…..Bim had found his hips.

'Let’s be honest Wilford…..you’re really not.’

Wilford could only let out a wild screech as Bim’s thumbs suddenly dug into the bowels of his hips, speedily rubbing and massaging the bundles of nerves as Wilford bucked and cackled like a complete and utter madman.

'AHAHAHAHAHA FAHAHAHAAAACK!! NAHAHAT THEHEHEHEHERE!!’

Wilford, it’s safe to say, was in ticklish agony. His eyes were squeezed shut as loud, rapid squeals pierced through his loud laughter; you could say that this was a particularly bad spot for poor Wilford. Bim snickered and giggled, he couldn’t keep up that intimidating act for long; he was too damn goofy.

'Coochie coochie coo! Awwww look who’s a ticklish little baby!’

Bim cooed as he kept his touch firm, whilst Wilford threw his head back amidst his wailing. He was shaking as his hands bashed the sofa haphazardly and indeed violently, his poor body had no idea of how to defend itself, mainly because internally, Wilford had no desire to stop Bim. At all.

'DOHOHOHOHN’T CAHALL MEHE THAHAHAHAAAAT!!!’

Bim felt his heart flutter at Wilford’s whine, and he as he kept up his torturous work so he could coo all the more.

'I’ll call you what I want thank you! Because you’re aaaaall mine!’

Wilford was gasping with tears in his eyes as his tummy bubbled with flustered butterflies, as well as tingles and bursts emanating from his hyper sensitive hips. The man let out a loud cry, since he was approaching his limit.

'PLEHEHEHEHEHE!!! IHIHIHIHI CAHAHAHAHAN’T!!!’

The desperation in Wilford’s voice rang loud, and Bim smiled at him fondly as he carefully slowed his rubbing movements; his hands swept away as Wilford breathed deeply whilst his eyes fluttered open and shut. Bim stayed perched on his thighs, looking down at him with a soft gaze.

'God…..I love how ticklish you are.’

Bim bore a wide smile as Wilford giggled lightly, nibbling his lip as he averted his gaze; his words were a little mumble.

’…..m-me tohoo…..’

Wilford was still blushing, it was at the point where it was questionable whether his cheeks would ever return to normal; but then again, a blushing Wilford Warfstache is a beautiful sight. Bim would certainly insist. Said man smiled and leant down, kissing Wilford softly and deeply as Wilford emitted a giggly hum. After a few moments of that sweetness though, Bim let out a slightly surprised squeak as Wilford let out a surge of energy so he could sit up; Wilford deepened the kiss too as Bim grinned happily. When they withdrew, Wilford wore a gentle smirk as he whispered.

'Shall we?’

Their eyes were locked as Bim nodded, but then let out a yelp when Wilford suddenly lifted him up; the moustached man stood with Bim in his arms as said man giggles came out bubbly.

'Oho gohosh WilfORD!’

The reason why Bim’s voice has suddenly become raised, was because of how Wilford literally sprinted from the room. Now…..Bim wouldn’t go as far to say that he was fearful for his life, because he wasn’t. He never could be with Wilford. Even though the goofily yelled words ’'ONWARDS TO 2018!’ echoed down the corridors, you have to admit; it was ever so slightly profound.

———————————————————————————————————–

Time to continue on to something similarly profound, we shall have to traverse a few more corridors but we eventually will arrive; at a bedroom in fact. I’m going to tell a certain number of you to hush your lewd minds, I’m sure you know who you are. Anyhow, as with before there is only one gentleman here at present, Darkiplier to be precise. He was sat, perched at the foot of a lavish king-sized bed; it was formed with some kind of sleek wood, mahogany perhaps. The sheets though, were a light green with the duvet accommodating a darker, forested hue. We all know that that’s not Dark’s personal colour of preference, but when it comes to his boyfriend; it’s the colour that Antisepticeye rather loves. So Dark had to admit…..it was indeed lovely.

Dark smiled at the thought of his significant other, sighing as he absently stared at an opposing wall. He was deep in reflection. This past year had been…..a lot. And although he knew that spending tonight with everyone else was the right thing, he wasn’t sure if he wanted to be surrounded by people; he wondered if it might be best…..for him to take a step back. Let them have their time, and he his privacy.

'DARKY BABY?! WHERE ARE YA?!’

Dark slowly grinned…..oh how unrealistic that prospect was. Dark straightened up as he looked to the doorway, and let out a gentle chuckle as Anti flew into the room; he was smiling like a maniac with his body glitching non-stop and rapidly…..god he was wondrous to behold when he was excited.

'There ya are! I was worried you’d bailed on me!’

Dark chuckled again as Anti approached, but Dark’s smile didn’t quite reach his eyes…..which Anti immediately picked up on as he cocked his head at his boyfriend. Anti sighed internally. He’d known that this was going to happen. This year had been a damn hectic and profound one, so it made sense that during the transition to the next…..he didn’t want to be under any obligations in public. Dark looked to him, he could tell that Anti knew.

’…..would it be so bad if I did bail?’

Dark’s voice was gentle as he fiddled with the cuffs of his shirt, all the while he gazed at Anti with real genuinity in his eyes. Anti smiled a little, he could see that Dark was encased in his profound bubble. So…..Anti did what he always did with a stray bubble; he popped it.

'Yes! Absolutely!’

Dark blinked a few times as Anti plopped down next to him, his smile widening as Dark raised an eyebrow fractionally.

'Oh? And why is that?’

Dark’s eyes sparkled a little, despite his earlier reluctance still fizzling away a bit…..he was curious to hear his boyfriend’s attempts at persuading him. He was not to be disappointed, since Anti grinned and swiftly clapped his hands together.

'Well, first off! Bing and the Jims have taken the trouble to put celery sticks with all the snacks, juuuust for you and your need for bitterness!’

Dark felt himself grinning despite himself, and his eyebrow rose further at Anti; said man smirked, he knew he was getting somewhere. Especially when Dark mumbled.

’…..go on.’

Anti smirked wider at that point. His gaze raked over Dark’s face as he spoke more, and Anti’s voice lowered into a small purr at this next little part.

'Secondly, when that clock strikes midnight I wanna snog the crap out of ya. I wanna make out in front of everyone so everyone knows who we are, and that we’re together.’

Dark’s grin faltered as a wave of bashfulness ran through him, and he averted his eyes for a moment as Anti’s cheeky giggle filled his ears; Dark cleared his throat a little as he fiddled with his fingers.

'Well, ahem, that uh….that sounds…..particularly inviting….’

Anti’s eyes lit up at the sound of Dark’s fragmented speech, and his grin was impossibly wide as he shuffled closer to him by a few inches; proximity, Anti knew, made Dark easier to convince.

'Is that a yeeeees? Oh and just so ya know, even if you do say no to me…..I can still make you come with me.’

Anti’s voice was a murmur amidst his speech, and the man let out a crackly laugh when Dark seemed to tense; but Dark still looked to Anti disbelievingly.

'Can you indeed? I don’t deny that you have many talents, Anti dearest, but I don’t think you’re quite capable of that.’

Dark felt himself smirking, since his regular confidence had risen up and reared its head; mainly because of how Anti’s words had rather sounded like…..a challenge. At Dark’s demeanour, Anti’s smirk effortlessly matched his. It was wide, toothy, and devious.

'Oh but I am…..trust me.’

Anti didn’t bother being patient anymore, he never could hold himself back when it came to getting his hands on Dark; and believe me when I say, Anti intended to get very hands on with his cocky boyfriend. Anti had taken Dark by his shirt collar and pushed him so that Dark was now fully lying on the bed; you could say that Dark was rather taken aback.

'Wh-what the hell Anti?! Y-you…..dare to manhandle me?’

Dark growled lightly as he squirmed, all the while Anti simply crawled on top of him. Dark’s gaze was curious, analytical…..and nervous. Anti was lying on him now, and Dark’s arms lay limp at his sides as he became partially transfixed, looking up at Anti.

'Oh I’m going to do a lot more than that…..’

Anti was so…..enthusiastic. Dark observed how his eyes seemed to shine and flick about, and the rest of him was just as restless; particularly his hands. They flinched and curled and tapped out in the air; and suddenly, Dark could feel the apprehension pooling in his tummy; and Anti must have read his mind. Because now…..a slow, careful hand had wormed its way between them so it could roam over Dark’s belly; the fingertips scratched over the thin shirt Dark wore, that offered no protection. Dark’s eyes widened…..fuck.

'O-oho n-no…. A-Antihi d-don’t yohou d-dahahare…..’

Dark’s voice had fallen into a much quieter resonance, and the man himself was fighting a smile even though his voice had already betrayed him. He should have known. Only Anti was bold enough and mischievous enough to do this to him; said man snickered as he purred.

'Oh but I must dare, since no-one else will…..and besides, I do love making a mess of you.’

Dark’s smile had broken free as yippy, sporadic giggles and huffs of air left his lips; Dark was squirming as well as being utterly tense, with his arms frozen at his sides. Yes. You may read into that. At Anti’s words…..Dark’s cheeks started to play their role too.

'Y-yohohou cheheeky dihihihick! Ihihi’ll m-mahahake yohohou regrehet thihihihis!’

Anti giggled at Dark’s words and his new-born flush, all the while his fingers explored and snuck under Dark’s shirt so they could scratch at his sensitive waistline. That earned Anti a few bucks as he replied with a sneer.

'What? Right now? When you’re all giggly and defenceless? I think not Darky…..’

Dark squealed a few times, tossing his head as he tried to ignore the teasing sensations…..but alas, by this point it was all he could really comprehend.

'Fuhuhuhuck yohohohou!!’

Anti let out a deep, fake gasp as he lowered his voice considerably; he sent Dark a light wink as he purred.

'Such filthy language…..what a dirty little boy you are.’

Dark’s breath got caught in his throat, but it was soon released as a loud squeal flew from him and Dark descended into squeaky cackles. Anti was smirking, glad that he’d decided to spontaneously scratch and pinch Dark’s thighs, which thrashed in response to the touches.

'NAHAHAHAHAHA IHI’M NAHAHAHAHAT!!’

Anti raised an eyebrow as Dark tossed his head frantically, and his face was screwed up as he blushed and laughed; meanwhile, Anti’s reply was beautifully sarcastic.

'Aren’t you? Well that disgraceful language kinda suggests otherwise babe…..’

Dark could only wail and cry out as he tugged at his legs, whilst his fists stayed balled up and tensely motionless; however, this contrasted rather heavily with the rest of him. At this point Anti decided to, ahem, up the ante; in a manner of speaking. So he leant down with a feral grin, before nuzzling and nibbling at Dark’s tender, exposed waistline.

'NONONONOHOHOHOHOHO!! NOHO FAHAHAHAHAHACE!!’

Anti giggled against Dark’s waist, which only made Dark squeak and laugh more as Anti just disregarded his words entirely; he smirked as he growled, using his hands to hold Dark’s hips to stop him moving as he mumbled.

'Mmmmm…..what tasty prey….I think I’ll definitely keep you aaaaall to myself!’

Dark gasped and yelped as his ability to wriggle was destroyed, and he threw his head back as he shrieked; Anti’s damn facial hair and lips and teeth…..were reducing him to a mess. It was made worse by the fact that Anti had pushed his shirt up way past his ribs…..he’d never been more exposed.

'PLEHEHEHEHEASE!! IHI CAHAN’T TAHAHAKE IHIT THEHEHEHEHEEERE!!’

Dark’s desperation in that moment had unearthed itself as Dark’s hands suddenly rushed forward to push Anti’s head away roughly; dear god…..Dark was encased in breathless anticipation. Anti meanwhile, let out a slightly evil chuckle as he looked up; and without any hesitation…..he caught Dark’s wrists in his hands.

'Oh dear…..can little Darkipoo not take the tickles on his tuuuuum?’

As Anti leant up and away from Dark’s lower torso, wrists still in hand, he gazed at Dark who spoke weakly and breathily.

'Sh-shuhuhuhut uhuhuhuuup…..i-ihit wahas s-soho ehevihil….’

Anti couldn’t hold back his giggles at the sound of Dark’s whimpery flusteredness. It made Anti happy to no end to see Dark become undone so innocently, and rather handsomely. Anti was still for a few moments, before he started shifting.

'Oh, evil was it? Was it truly…..diabolical?’

Anti whispered as he pinned Dark’s arms to his sides, and then shuffled himself a few inches so that he could look properly into Dark’s eyes, whilst hovering his head over Dark’s torso. Dark meanwhile only gulped, and nodded hesitantly as he whispered back.

’…..mhmmm…..’

Anti pouted, pulling a faked look of sympathy as he gazed into Dark’s glittering, rusty orbs; Anti’s sympathy soon dissipated however, in favour of a demeanour of boyish deviance.

'Huh…..well if you can’t take it there, then I can’t wait to see what happens when I dooooo…..THIS!’

Dark screamed. No joke. It all happened so fast, in a mere blink of an eye. Anti had descended and had forcefully brushed and nuzzled all over Dark’s ribs…..aka the man’s kill spot; oh…..poor, poor Dark.

'AHHHHHHH FAHAHAHACK NAHAHAHAHAAAAA AHAHANTIHIHIHI!!!’

Anti cackled as he growled, letting his scruffy facial hair scratch over Dark’s bottom-most ribs; the glitched man relished in Dark’s hysteria as he kept up the torture. The fact that Dark was just so unbearably ticklish…….just made Anti’s year.

'Awwwww tickle tickle tickle! Can’t you take it baby?’

Dark wailed with a deep blush writhing about as he threw his head back in his wild, unbridled mirth. Honestly, no he most certainly could NOT take it! Although…..that didn’t mean that Dark wasn’t loving it. Especially with Anti’s teasing words in the mix, Dark was awash with waves of ticklishness and bubbles of reckless, embarrassing abandonment. That didn’t halt his protests though.

'PLEHEHEHEHEHEEEEASE!!! NOHOHOHO MOHOHOHOOORE!!’

Anti hummed, grinning widely as he pulled a thoughtful expression, as if he was considering Dark’s words most seriously. This is rather hard to believe, especially since Anti had taken to nibbling just below Dark’s bottom ribs so his ears could feast on Dark’s desperate squeals.

'Mmmm, I shoooould probably relent…..’

Dark let out a gasp and shudder of relief when Anti’s scratchy, rough torment ceased and transitioned into light kisses which helped melt away the previous torment.

'Mmmhmhm…..yeheah prohobahably…..’

Dark mumbled, but then his heart faltered when he realised what he’d said; the breath got stuck in his throat as he flicked his gaze down to Anti. However…..there wasn’t any teasing mockery there, the smile was wide but it was genuine; and adoring. Purely adoring and in awe. In the space of a second, Anti’s hands had slid from Dark’s wrists, and the man himself had leant so he could kiss Dark’s lips softly, smiling all the while as Dark responded passionately with a slightly bashful grin. Dark reached up to cup Anti’s jaw as he sat up, forcing Anti back who let out a surprised giggle; Dark withdrew with a light smirk as Anti mumbled.

'Can you stop being so perfect please…..’

Dark chuckled, smirking widely at Anti who giggled again when Dark spoke in a low purr.

'Unfortunately, what you ask for is impossible.’

Anti grinned when Dark leant in to kiss him this time, but with a hint of cheekiness since he nipped Anti’s bottom lip with a chuckle; Anti shot him a playful glare as he shuffled off Dark’s legs, allowing him to sit up fully and run a hand through his hair whilst Anti then got to his feet.

'Vain bastard…..’

Anti smirked when Dark let out a loud chuckle as he too stood, straightening his shirt with a quirk of his eyebrow and a teasing air to his voice.

'Goading glitch.’

Anti froze. He immediately looked down the floor, fiddling with his t-shirt as Dark let a out a satisfied hum; it always was the case with Anti. His number one go-to method to get the torture he wanted…..give it to someone else first, so they’ll be sure to get revenge. Dark thought it was commendable, and frankly brave. Dark paced towards Anti, smiling deftly as he wrapped an arm round the man’s waist, and Anti looked up to him with a light grin. There was one more peck on the lips before they headed off. Yeah…..this past year has been a damn fucking profound one, but that does NOT mean that the next one can’t start with a bang.

———————————————————————————————————–

I have some good news, and some bad news. The good news is that it’s almost New Years Eve! There’s not long to go now before the celebrations really start, and I can say with solid assurance that there is going to be a party like no other. However, that does bring forth the bad news. We’re almost done in terms of the scenes that we’re to observe tonight. Don’t worry though…..there’s still a little bit to come. Now, you’ll require a bit of your memory for this; do you remember the area where our lovely set of Google brothers and their cranky sibling were setting up the countdown? I think you do. Well surprise, we’re back there now, but we are not to linger. Now, there is a wonderful HD TV up there, as you know, so we are going to turn our back on it and walk straight ahead; there are a pair of double doors which open out to a stunning, grey-stone balcony. It has of course been adorned with fairy lights, we can once again thank dear Oliver for that. Our attention however, should be on the man leaning and looking out across the barely visible landscape.

The man in 20’s era attire sighed, smiling weakly as he let the surprisingly warm air brush his face and hands. Mayor Damien was…..content. Don’t ask how he could be there, he just was. He existed, rather perfectly, in the world and on that balcony….and he was the happiest he’d ever been. Although, his smile wasn’t too wide; he still had his decorum. He was so serene and composed, to be honest it was the sort of scene you’d depict in an oil painting; the sort that would bring silence among a group. It was nice. However……some might say it was plain, or lacking a dash of colour. So it is rather convenient then, that a sudden presence approaching Damien from behind was certain to provide that…..much needed, splash of vibrancy. Damien let out a little gasp when he felt two arms snake around his waist, and a chin rest on his shoulder; a low voice whispered teasingly.

'Well now…..what’s a handsome gent like you doin all alone?’

Damien felt himself smiling wider as he was lightly spun, and he came face to face with a teasing, moustached fiend. Or rather, his teasing moustached fiend.

'Oh nothing…..just waiting for the right person to come along and, sweep me off my feet.’

Damien’s voice was gentle, and it made Colonel William chuckle as he pulled his dear mayor closer. His hat had been discarded a little while ago, but his conglomeration of glasses remained and framed his face, as well as his growing smirk. The Colonel’s jet black moustache wiggled as the man spoke in his gently dramatized tone of voice.

'My dear sir…..I must gladly inform you, that your wait is over.’

Damien couldn’t help but let out a giggle as The Colonel leant in and swiftly connected their lips, letting out a low hum as he ran his hands up and down Damien’s back soothingly and adoringly. Damien’s eyes had fluttered shut as he smiled into the kiss, letting one of his hands gently roam into the Colonel’s hair whilst the other remained at the small of his back. It was a beautiful moment, it really was. Despite that fact that Damien was letting out little giggles, which amused the Colonel greatly as he pulled away with a curious smile.

'Someone’s a little giggle monster, do my affections amuse you?’

Damien was trying to withhold his wide grin as he looked to the floor, and he cleared his throat as he tried to put forth his answer in the least embarrassing way possible; alas, Damien found that there was only one way to word it…..and it made him stammer rather adorably.

'I-It…..your damned moustache t-tickles…..’

The Colonel raised an eyebrow before he smiled wider, his gaze raking over Damien’s evidently flustered state; the Colonel swiftly chuckled and elected to lean in and whisper in Damien’s ear, purposely brushing his moustache over the other man’s neck.

'Is that so? Does that mean that this…..tickles?’

The Colonel’s voice had lowered into a purr as he gently brushed his facial hair, whilst Damien squeaked and hurriedly to cover his mouth as well as squirm away. He soon realised though, that with The Colonel’s arms around his waist, he had no way to escape; his words came out rather quickly, and at a much higher pitch than normal.

'W-Wihihill! Nohohot h-hehehere!’

Damien’s giggles were gentle, and the Colonel grinned as he pulled Damien tightly into his chest so he couldn’t get away. Damien was ever so embarrassed already, mainly at the concept of someone possibly seeing them, and seeing him like this; as you can imagine, the Colonel knew of this. That didn’t mean he was going to relent though, how could he possibly want to miss out on hearing his darling’s sweet giggles? So he decided to move his nuzzling to the shell of Damien’ ear.

'Not on your neck? Very well…..how about on your cute little ears, hm?’

Damien let out a loud squeal as he pushed at the Colonel’s chest, gasping as he tried to shake his head; the man was just awash with sensitive spots, and they both knew it. Not only that, but the Colonel’s chuckling sent many a chill down Damien’s spine as he whined.

'Dohohohon’t doho thihihis toho meheheheeee!’

Damien’s smile was impossibly wide by this point, courtesy of the rapid tingles and bolts shooting through his system as provided by the dear Colonel. Said man pulled away briefly, eyes shining with glee as he gazed upon he flustered man in his arms; goodness, he really was a handsome devil. The Colonel smirked as Damien looked up at him nervously, and the former leant in so he could whisper.

'Oh but my dear Damien….how could I possibly resist?’

Damien’s eyes widened as he suddenly felt the Colonel’s hands sneakily go to scratch and knead his sides, almost making him double over as he spluttered and cackled.

'OHOHOHOHO GOHOHOHOD NOHOHOHOHOOOO!!’

Damien twisted and writhed, but he couldn’t escape the mischievous Colonel who still held him to his chest, whilst managing to reach under his tailored jacket and shirt so he could scratch Damien’s bare sides. The Colonel was relishing in Damien’s reactions, but as he looked at him he couldn’t help but feel that his cheeks were missing a little something.

'Coochie coochie coooo! You are quite the ticklish one aren’t you my dear?’

And there it was, a stunning rose flush blossomed on Damien’s cheeks as he hurried to cover his face; that damned teasing was just uncalled for! The Colonel was just elated, any opportunity to see his dear Damien finally let loose was a moment to be revered.

'TAHAHAHAKE AHA WIHIHILD GUEHEHEHEHESS!!’

The Colonel snickered, and his voice came out in a light purr as one of his hands decide to attack Damien’s tummy; which was infinitely more sensitive.

'Quite sassy too, perhaps you should reign in that little attitude of yours…..’

Damien was very nearly breathless as he laughter spewed from him, because alas his poor tummy was his kryptonite; and the Colonel knew how to render him defeated in a heartbeat. The Colonel’s fingertips roughly scratched the pudge they found, but were delicate over his waistline and round his navel; when they circled that little area, Damien was a squeaking and snorting mess. At the Colonel’s words, his blush darkened to a crimson as he hurriedly looked away fro im…..and yet; there was a spark. A spark of defiance.

'OHOHOHOHR WHAHAHAHAHAT?!’

The Colonel was heavily taken aback, and yet rather proud. He let his smirk dim into a light smile as he suddenly withdrew his devious fingers, making Damien gasp and breath deeply in surprise; the man’s stomach was bubbling with anticipation…..oh lord what had he done? Damien nibbled his lip nervously as he suddenly felt the Colonel’s hand cup his jaw, and tilt his face up so they were looking at one another. Damien’s gaze was fixed on the Colonel as he whispered.

'Or…..I shall be forced to discipline you!’

Damien’s heart almost leapt out of his chest, the Colonel just moved so quickly. The Colonel had leant forward to kiss Damien passionately, not only to catch him off guard but also because those lips were so damn inviting; he couldn’t help himself. Whilst Damien was caught up however, the Colonel suddenly knocked Damien off his feet so that he could hold him in a bridal position; this made Damien squeal and ramble rather frantically.

'OH MY GOHOD WILL P-PUHUT ME DOWN!’

The Colonel chuckled, smirking deftly when Damien’s arms hurried to wrap round his neck as he tensed; god he was just too cute and too delicate for his own good. The Colonel looked down at him, feeling immensely satisfied at the sight of the nerves flickering in Damien’s eyes; he spoke in a gruff voice, almost bordering a growl which made Damien shiver and gulp.

'You don’t get to give orders here…..and now, it’s time for your punishment…..’

Damien was ever so jittery, since his mind was whirring away and trying to think of what the Colonel could possibly intend; however, the Colonel’s trait of impatience meant that Damien didn’t wait for long. The Colonel leant down and immediately buried his face under Damien’s crumpled shirt, which already got him giggling frantically; but then…..he screamed.

'AAHHHHHHHH NAHAHAHAHAHAHA NAHAHAT THEHEHEHEEEERE!!!’

The Colonel smirked as he roughly nuzzled and nibbled the rim of Damien’s navel, his moustache rubbing and tickling as he growled and made some rather goofy eating noises.

'Mmmm what a taaaaasty maaaaayor…..nomnomnomnooommm…..’

Damien shrieked as he tried to thrash, but he could barely even wriggle in the Colonel’s arms; and he couldn’t risk fighting back in case he made the Colonel let go of him! At least, that’s what Damien told himself.

'NAHAHAHAHAHA DOHOHOHON’T EHEHEHEEAT MEHEHEHEEEE!!!’

The Colonel had to hold back a stream of chuckling at Damien’s words, dear god it should be illegal to be this adorable. Damien meanwhile was screeching desperately as he heard the Colonel hum into his belly. 

'Perhaps I shall relent……if you say sorry for being such a sassy lassy!’

Lets just say…..Damien’s words shot out faster than a .220 Swift bullet. The Colonel was proud.

'IHI’M SORRY I’M SAHAHARRY PLEHEHEEEEASE!!!’

The Colonel smirked, letting out a light giggle as he stilled his torturous movements; he glanced at Damien who had wide eyes as his chest rose and fell slowly. They were silent for a few moments, but eventually Damien straightened up a little and cleared his throat; well, that was certainly an experience.

’…..y-you shouldn’t behe allowed t-to be so good ahat that…..’

The Colonel raised an eyebrow as he let out a light laugh, which made Damien avert his gaze bashfully; the Colonel decided to administer a final little peck to Damien’s belly button before he muttered lowly.

'You know me Damien, I live to exceed expectations…..’

Damien giggled lightly as he felt the Colonel lower him back to his feet, he wobbled for a second before he hurriedly fixed his shirt and jacket; he was still blushing wildly, which the Colonel was most happy about. The Colonel watched Damien fix himself up; it was true that the Colonel liked it when his decorum  was gone and he was a flushed mess…..but he couldn’t deny how damn fine he looked when he was smart. Damien was a fine figure, in more ways than one. Said gent looked up, and smiled a little embarrassedly when he saw the Colonel looking; he mumbled gently.

'You always do my dear…..’

The Colonel smiled, with a hint of bashfulness of his own as Damien leant forward and pecked him on the lips; the Colonel swiftly grinned and offered Damien his arm.

'Shall we Damien?’

Said man giggled lightly, and didn’t hesitate to curl his arm around the Colonel’s; he held the man’s forearm as he whispered.

'We shall, William.’

With that they stepped forward and through…..joining the rest. I would go into a profound explanation, but I think that movement presents enough by itself…..don’t you?

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Everyone is here, all together. Twenty six unique, vibrant beings all here in common cause; to celebrate, to have fun, and to holler to the skies ’'Bring it on 2018!”. It’s stunning, it really is.. There was no single person counting down, and that was because no-one is more important or influential than the other; and that is the honest truth. Everyone’s eyes flicked between one another and the digital projected clock. 5 seconds.

4 seconds.

3 seconds.

2 seconds.

1 second.

Then it came. A raucous cheer, a chorus of voices crying out to the world; Happy New Year. Yes, people may say it a lot in the build up, but when it comes to the actual moment it is said so much louder, and heard by so many more people. That’s because when you say it, when you really say it…..you mean it. You want everyone to have a happy forthcoming year, because it’s what everyone deserves.

We cannot forget though, that after the compulsory cheer we have our kisses; these traditions are rather more wonderful when you find yourself writing about them. The magician and the hero. The two feathered forms from heaven. The good doctor and the man of talents. The man of endless sight and the man of healing. The vibrant fiend and the tranquil nurturer. The haphazard and the suave, in perfect equilibrium. Then there’s the leader and his armed protector.

Such sweet scenes of affection are certainly something to behold, but let us not forget the others.The Google brothers and their rusted sibling wrapped in each others’ arms; a standing array of colour, with intangible bonds a’ plenty. Then there’s the rest, who can make up the perfect microcosm. Walter, arms wide and homely for the one of passion, the man who speaks in hands, the most precious reflection of the undead, the twins of drama and the browser who’s honestly more buff than buffering. No-one here is alone, you can count on that.

Now, despite our great gathering there may yet be a few others scattered elsewhere; you needn’t worry though, because they are no less happy. There’s a man, finally content with his son. There’s a shining hero…..who finally got the woman he deserved.. There’s a king, safe and nestled with his kingdom. A simple toymaker, safe and happy with his creations. A hunter, embraced by our world’s nature. Now I’m sure there’s more, but even if I am unable to credit their existence; remember, they’re safe and happy. How can I be certain? It’s New Year’s Eve, I like to think sadness takes a break. As will I.

Before they go off and rage on caffeine and un-needed food, I just want to say thank you. Thank you. To everyone. Because everyone deserves to be thanked, for one reason or another. So I think all that’s left to say is…..2018, give us what you’ve got.

The End.

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I really hope you guys like this and I REALLY REALLY REALLY want to know what you all think of it! love yous xx

[creative-type]

Organic Character Growth in Call the Midwife

One of the things I most appreciate about Call the Midwife is its character writing. There are plenty of shows that suffer from flanderization or character derailment in an effort to keep things interesting, but Call the Midwife is and remains to be an excellent, character-driven drama over six-plus seasons (As an American, I’m a little behind on the most recent episodes). 

Speaking as someone who knows nothing about writing for a television series, I can only imagine how difficult it is to maintain quality writing when you have little to no control what the future holds. The series might get cancelled. Actors and actresses might pursue other roles. The audience might not respond well to a storyline necessitating the show to go a different direction. There are so many things about syndication that our outside the writer’s control, but they still have the thankless job of working around all the bumps and hiccups to produce the story they want to tell.

I eventually want to focus on how the show handled the character of Sister Evangelina, but before we get there I want to explore a little of what I think makes the writing as engaging as it is, using some of the other characters. With that in mind, let’s begin.

Also, beware of major spoilers, especially for season five. If any of my followers haven’t watched Call the Midwife it’s on Netflix and is awesome. Go watch it and then come back. I’ll still be here.

Episodes, Seasons, and Series: The Basic Units of Television

When evaluating the writing for a television series, I like to break the show down into three units of measure: The episode, the season, and the series as a whole. There can be good episodes in bad seasons, or bad seasons in otherwise good shows, or any combination of the above. 

Call the Midwife maintains a strong continuity, and because each season is less than ten episodes it doesn’t have a lot of time to mess around with filler material that doesn’t somehow advance the plot. The hour runtime of most episodes (extended to an hour and half for the Christmas specials) gives the series time to develop an interesting and compelling case of the week-style medical drama while also allowing for a large ensemble cast, which after the departure of Jenny Lee in the third season doesn’t have a main character but rather rotates through the stories of the nuns and midwives of Nonnatus House.

While I would argue that each season has its own main theme, the overarching concept the series is trying to explore is love. There are narrated voice overs at the beginning and end of each episode that drive this point home, which can come off as narmy or charmingly sweet depending on your disposition. Romantic love, familial love, love for community...all these things are the thread that bind the series into its current form. 

But it’s through these themes of love that Call the Midwife explores heavy issues such as poverty, women’s rights, health, mental health, alcoholism, abuse, racism, homosexuality, death, and so much more. It also is a period piece examining life in the late 1950s to early 60s though a modern lens, both optimistic at how far we’ve come and exploring how much farther we have to go.

To say Call the Midwife is ambitious is an understatement, and with a series that has so much to say might forget that it’s first and foremost a story, but it doesn’t. The characters act like real people, with real struggles, hopes, dreams and ambitions. The medical aspects of the show are well-researched and realistically displayed. While maintaining an overall optimistic tone it doesn’t shy away from the difficult or unpleasant realities of life.

This kind of balance can only be maintained with good character writing. The characters are the backbone of the show, and everything else branches off from their experiences.

(It should also be noted that the series has some excellent actors and actresses that bring this writing to life, but I’m going to basically ignore that aspect of things because I know less about acting than I do writing.)

Let’s look at the example of Season One, Episode One. The series opens with newly-qualified midwife Jenny Lee walking through the East End of London towards her new job, while the narrator (an older Jenny) says the following:

I must have been mad! I could have been an air hostess, I could have been a model, I could have moved to Paris or been a concert pianist. I could have seen the world, been brave, followed my heart. But I didn't. I side-stepped love and set off for the east-end of London because I thought it would be easier. Madness is the only explanation!

Another side note: Call the Midwife was drawing from the memoir of Jennifer Worth at this point in time, so I’m not 100% sure if this is a direct quotation or not, but I’m pretty sure it’s original material. 

In any case, Jenny walks past a scene of two women fighting: A heavily pregnant wife going after her husband’s mistress. There’s a circle of onlookers egging them on, while Jenny watches helplessly until the police and Sister Evangelina arrive and break up the altercation. 

Jenny eventually reaches Nonnatus House, meets the delightfully senile Sister Monica Joan, and admits to Sister Julienne that she thought she was working at a small private hospital when in fact she will be living and working in a convent.

This one small scene--over and done with in the first ten minutes of the episode--tells you everything you need to know about Jenny as well as the main theme of the season.

I’ve alternately thought of the first season of Call the Midwife as being about finding your place in the world, growing up, and overcoming naivete. Jenny--and later on Chummy who also happens to get a lot of screen time--are both new midwives and know nothing about living in poverty, neither are terribly experienced with love, and in Jenny’s case is holding onto the idea of a relationship she knows she can’t have rather than accepting what will make her happy. 

This theme not the focus of every episode and the series doesn’t beat you over the head with it, but there’s no denying it’s there. In Episode 2, Chummy has to learn to ride a bicycle and overcome her poor self-esteem to deliver a breech baby. In Episode 3, Jenny finds herself looking after a kindly old man named Joe and has to deal with overcoming her own revulsion of his deplorable living conditions to care for him as a person. Episode 5 has Jenny coming face to face with the horrors of the workhouse and the long-acting consequences it has on those who lived in them.

Each episode contains its own self-contained story and themes that bolster that of the series--Jenny learns to see her poverty-stricken patients as “heroines”, Chummy delivers the breech baby and gains the respect of her peers, etc.--that are in and of themselves interesting. Anyone can jump into just about any episode of Call the Midwife and understand the jist of what’s going on, and still have the pleasure of seeing a unique spin on the medical drama format. 

The true genius is how the writers have taken seeds planted early in the series and let them develop organically into plot twists that don’t seem like asspulls. For example, when I introduced the Call the Midwife to my roommates we made it to maybe the second season when one of them remarked “Wow, Trixie sure drinks a lot.” And it’s true. Trixie has always been the fun-loving girl who, though extremely skilled, is always looking for a good time. It makes complete sense that given the stresses in her personal and professional life she would develop into a functioning (and later on not so functioning) alcoholic.

But when you look back on these early seasons Trixie’s drinking habit isn’t really mentioned. It’s just...sort of there, and an accepted part of her characterization without being commented on until much later in the series. The show never goes out of the way to emphasize Trixie’s drinking until it starts interfering with her life, which makes it feel both like a natural consequence and an unexpected plot-point at the same time.

You can have this natural growth only by treating the characters as characters, and not glorified mouth-pieces that for the soap-box special of the day. Going back to the example of Trixie, we get to learn eventually that a large part of her bubbly personality is a front, see her struggle to be taken seriously as a midwife and a woman, fight through a relationship with a good but ultimately incompatible fiancee, and mature into a better person and health-care provider because of it all. It’s a testament to the quality of the writing when during the Season 6 Christmas special set in South Africa that I 100% believed that Trixie could and would be able to preform a C-section without a doctor present and that her coworkers would trust her enough to pull it off.

(I kind of hope Trixie becomes the 1960s English version of a nurse practitioner, but that’s beside the point).

There are seeds like this sprinkled all throughout the series: Sister Bernadette wistfully letting her hair down after the non-nun midwives go out dancing, Cynthia Miller’s tendency towards depression and anxiety after the death of the Kelly baby, Jenny showing an interest in end of life care multiple times before her departure of the series, the list goes on and on.

Which brings me back to Sister Evangelina.

Tying Together Character and Theme 

As previously stated, Season One of Call the Midwife is a classic fish out of water scenario, and if you’re going to take a fish out of water it stands to reason that you’re going to have someone who wants to see them flounder.

That person is Sister Evangelina.

Now I’m not saying that Sister Evangelina isn’t a good character, but out of the main cast she’s one of the ones who gets the least development. Her main duty in the show is to give voice to other character’s insecurities and act as a sort of antagonist that they have to overcome. She’s the most staunchly traditional character in a series pioneering modern liberal idealism who’s most definable character traits are her sharp tongue and unyielding nature. Some quotes include:

“The East End will eat her for breakfast”

“I’ll tell you what the problem is. You young girls do too much book-learning. You sit for months in classrooms, filling your heads with loads of codswallop, when simple practical tasks are beyond you!”

“She may be my sister in Christ but I swear, she would drive a Methodist to drink!”

“If you’re suggesting that a few deep breaths and not thinking about what’s for dinner is all there is to labor, you’re leading your patients up the fairy way”

Sister Evangelina cares, but she is not by nature kind. She’s an action first, my way or the highway, suspicious of newcomers because they don’t know what they’re doing kind of character. She fits perfectly as an obstacle for the younger generation of midwives to overcome and a voice against new-fangled nonsense such such as gas and air for pain relief during deliveries, and updating to a freaking Rolodex.  

Yes, even a Rolodex is reasonable cause for a fight with Sister Evangelina.

And that’s not to say that she’s an evil or nasty woman, just a hard one, born and shaped by a life filled with hardness to the point that’s all she really knows. We understand where she’s come from and why she thinks the way she does, but at the same time by the time Season Five rolls around the series has outgrown her. 

One of the major themes for Season Five is change: change in how medicine is practiced, change from an the old generation to the new, and irreversible changes in society as it marches forward. The young, inexperienced midwives aren’t so young and inexperienced, and the introduction of Nurse Crane has taken Sister Evangelina’s status as the “tough but fair” one while being a more relatable and progressive character overall, thus fitting better with the evolution of the series and where it wants to go.

At the same time, Sister Evangelina was relatively beloved by the fandom, and a complex and deserving character in her own right. When Pam Ferris decided to leave the series, how were the writers going to let her go with grace and dignity, as befitting of her status in- and out of universe?

By killing her off in the best way possible.

Early in Season Five Sister Evangelina is confronted with the fact that her dismissive attitude towards formula versus breast milk has caused serious harm to a mother and baby. She’s rightfully called out by Barbra Gilbert, one of the newer nurses (this is important, remember the theme of the changing of the guard) before going off to the Mother House for some serious self-reflection. 

She comes back much later after it’s revealed she’s had a stroke. Sister Evangelina, a woman who believes she best serves God through direct action, is rendered unable to do just that. While able to do some nursing cares one-handed,  she gives up handling babies because she might, you know, drop them, returning to her rightful place at Nonnatus House a humbled woman.

This would have been good enough, but the show takes the time to give her a renewed purpose before killing her off. I think it’s important that she spends her last delivery with Barbra, imparting her knowledge and unique brand of home-spun wisdom to the very person who drove her into exile. Her journey comes full circle when she picks up a baby for the final time, shouts a bit for old time’s sake, and dies peacefully in her sleep with her character arc completed. The tear-inducing funeral montage is just extra icing on the cake, giving the audience a greater appreciation for her impact on the community she served for so many years. 

I’m not going to say that every single plot thread is handled with such deftness, and some characters pop into and out of the series with more grace than others. But when you treat your characters as characters, and let them grow, and change, and suffer, and overcome organically then you don’t have to throw screwy plot twists or derail a character to stay “relevant”. If you can’t trust your characters to be interesting without major outside intervention, then maybe you just need better characters.

It’s difficult, but it can be done. I know, because I and many others have been invested for over six seasons now, and I think I can speak for the fandom on this one and say that we don’t plan on stopping any time soon.

[latinalesbi]

Why do you think Teri's voice cracked like that ? Especially as well as it did , since that was acting ? It was cracked in Honeymoon when (she) woke up with Lena , but it was nothing like this time around .

I think she lost her voice due to illness or work. It just depends when during the shoot that scene was shot. I think when she raised her voice it was more noticeable.

It reminds of the first wedding episode and in HD you can see a scar on her chin but only on some scenes.

Anonymous said:                                                                      Since Ximena kissed Callie, I would like to see how she feels about it. Did she like it or feel anything ? She didn't seem to not like it but she didn't really react.

Reading the scene, Callie didn’t respond. That doesn’t mean it won’t happen but there are reasons I believe she won’t respond to her feelings. But who knows? I do feel like there’s a bit of replacing the old ladies with young ones. And you know lesbians will respond to that because they are just as ageist as anyone else. And Racist.

Anonymous said:                                                                      wow i can’t believe you know EVERYTHING that happened behind the scenes!!!! you’re just sooooooooo knowledgeable!!!!!! also teri didn’t unfollow the cast you just love drama and anything that proves your stupid points. kinda like donald trump            

I’ll just let this sit here. It speaks for itself. I also lost 2 troll post in a crash and it makes me sad.  Also, lol about Teri. Talk about fake news my friend.

Anonymous said:                                                                      Yeah I saw that too. They directly asked if Teri was in the summer series and he deflected the question. Eek!             

Are they shooting the show right now? Joanna said they are. Maybe they’re going to scatter the stars and only some people are shooting. Who knows. Cierra already said everyone would be there. Hayden is a troll, usually.

Anonymous said:                                                                      While I enjoyed the ending scene in bed, it seemed incomplete. Thoughts?           

I felt like there might have been some cuts. I mean they had really excellent screen time but most of it was apart. So they might have cut their scenes together of course. My biggest problem was how brief it was and the weird angles on it. I think it was to increase the anxiety but it left me wanting.

Anonymous said:                                                                      You said „Teri is shooting“ how do you know that?! And do they not start this week or next week with the 3 episode thing?!            

Joanna said they already did start. It might be that they are shooting all 3 eps concurrently and only some people are working right now.  I mean, I believe Joanna over Hayden. https://twitter.com/JoannaJohnson31/status/953798613703974912

and she also said that the moms would play an important part in those 3 eps so...  https://twitter.com/JoannaJohnson31/status/953828047370600449

I am honestly not worried about it. Teri will be in it.

Anonymous said:                                                                      I mean there was a lot of stef and lena in this episode but not together. Ugh!!  but the last scene tho. Broke my heart. Wish it was longer..             

Yes to all that. If a lesbian can’t get a nice kiss in a birthday episode. I just don’t know. I get Stef was stressed, but lena has been noticing this, it was more important that she make a nice gesture.

Anonymous said:                                                                      Maia is doing damage limitation, which I understand they got called out on their bullshit and are not enjoying the heat. It doesn’t matter when they found out they still blindsided the rest of the cast with the spin off. No one knew. Teri is obviously angry. Why did she unfollow you Maia? As for the episode i adore Stef, Teri was amazing. The scene at the end was beautiful. As for the party, awful! Finally, Callie- dear god is there anything that girl won’t experience, but it is the Calli show.             

That’s exactly it. Damage control. There was a clear blindside. Sherri is to me the fairest person. And she was still tweeting out to renew the fosters in January. Imagine thinking you had a chance when 2 of your cast mates already know it’s done and are making side deals for a spin off. Seems wrong, really wrong.

I want to know, is there anyone who won’t fall for bland ass Callie? So ridiculous.

Anonymous said:                                                                      I know people are praising Mariana for being independent and playing off the three guys at the same time...but actually, I don't think it's right. If a guy was playing me with 3 girls I would be pissed off. You don't need to play 3 guys in order to be a strong independent female             

It’s not my kind of empowerment. There are some behaviors that one shouldn’t imitate, just because those in power behave that way.

Anonymous said:                                                                      I don't understand how out of all the characters to go on the spin off, they choose Aaron?? Like transgender representation is important, but it almost feels like they just want Callie and Aaron together to be "ground breaking" despite it not being a healthy relationship. Like what about Cole??? That would have been so cute. But this whole spin off is such a sell out and it angers me!             

We don’t know for sure but I wouldn’t be surprised. Aaron is an ass. He is a canonnical controlling bf. Girls beware and stay away from guys like that. Cole would have been sooo much better.

Anonymous said:                                                                      I wish AJ had more of a part in Ximena's storyline. He was a part of it in the first half of the season as he attended one of the protests and supported Callie and Ximena in the prom episode, and the episode after that. But all of a sudden he's not a part of it and Aaron's taking his place. I have a feeling it's because they're preparing for AJ to leave, since Tom is living in England. But I like it when AJ is a part of it because his interest always seems more genuine than Aaron's.             

I think the actor chose to go with a surer type of envirornment but unfortunately we lost out. AJ should be the one involved. Aj always got callie, plus he gets that foster kid side of her.

Anonymous said:                                                                      Im starting to feel like jude will be the third star. Do u think David sold them out too? I hope not becuse i really like his personality.             

I don’t think any star signing now would be selling out. The part that hurts is that signing that spin off played directly into cancellation and we just can’t know the timing. Plus, it was done behind people’s back. That’s the selling out and betrayal. The show is happening now, no matter who else participates. So either of these two joining would not really be selling out. I wouldn’t like them for doing it, but it’s not the level of betrayal the 2 girls showed.

Anonymous said:                                                                      Clearly Stef's blow up at Jenna has to do with guilt about stupid Mike right? I don't care about that storyline one bit. Fuck Mike and that guilt. Ugh I hate this show so much.             

Yep, that’s exactly part of it. It’s also her job, that job is stress inducing. It’s too much for Stef, she has too much heart. With Lena making more money, maybe she’ll go back to being a beat cop. or maybe she can work in homicide. Stef is too much of a mom to stay in sex trafficking.

Anonymous said:                                                                      Of course Sherri and Teri work together the best but some of Maia best acting is with Teri and Sherri. Sadly we don’t really get that anymore.             

Mariana/Lena ain’t bad either.

Anonymous said:                                                                      The two older women of the cast are now out of work whilst the young folk get to continue, of course many of us are upset. They’ve been dumped without a second thought, when they were and still are the heartbeat of the show. If people do not like the comments on your page, simple just don’t come on here. Many of us are grateful to you that we can vent somewhere.             

Thank you. I am glad it’s useful and cathartic. I am not sure why they would dump these wonderful women. And I am not sure how they can go back on, there’s no the fosters without Sherri and Teri. And people can just accept that and not look back. Woo hoo, people have no integrity. I hold people to their word, even when it’s hard (I sound like Lena).

Anonymous said:                                                                      Why did Teri unfollow you Bradley, Peter, Cierra, Maia? That should be the question they get asked until the answer. Won’t be able to spin that one!!             

I wouldn’t want more drama for Teri. I think we all know what it means. And they know what it means. The ones that can’t are the ones that think everything is honky dory. You see I have someone who is still in denial about this fact. Teri unfollowed these people, this is a fact.

Anonymous said:                                                                      God it’s sad it’s all ending like this. Bradley doesn’t give a shit. Peter and Joanna I think do, I hope. As for the two girls, I hope someone asks them about Sherri and Teri. Make them address it. I’ve no problem them furthering their careers but they negotiated behind the backs of their fellow cast members, and now instead of being sensitive to the fans feelings they are talking up their new show before the old one, that made them is even over! That’s what I’m pissed about!           

Those girls are all about how stef and lena are their favorite and they have their favorite scenes. Bullshit. And yes, the worst thing is that they haven’t even buried the show and they’re already pissing on it. Every single promo from now on will be about Callie or Mariana. It’s gross. They had to take them out of the artwork for the show. Why? Just be hurtful.

Anonymous said:                                                                      okay, so i just happened to be clicking through channels and inadvertently landed on the movie that's playing on ff right now - the fosters is next. guess what? they've played two commercials for the show and both of them were *old* promos for the season premiere, saying "the farewell season begins tonight". they can't even be bothered to play the right commercial for tonight's episode, apparently. they aren't even pretending to try anymore.             

That’s really sad. They can’t bother to pay an editor to put some non spoilery scenes together.

[ramblesofadreamerofthestars]

Therapy? In The Final Season of  The 100??

It’s more likely then any of us ever thought??????

Spoilers of course for the 100 7.07

Dr. Eric Jackson said “is anyone going to treat Literally Everyone for the trauma we go through” and had to wait seven seasons before giving up and doing it himself. I fucking love him and I Adore that Madi is getting therapy and that they are CONFRONTING WHAT HAPPENED TO A LITERAL CHILD. Jax read one (1) psychology book and decided he was now a licensed therapist and you know what? good for him. 

Someone....let me at Madi’s wardrobe. Babe looks like she rolled up fresh out of Amity from the Divergent movies and like...killing it but What was the inspiration. I am So Happy she gets to play soccer and have therapy sessions and just be a regular kid for what is apparently, the first time in her entire life. I Miss her and Clarke and i wish Clarke was here to see Madi starting to flourish because that dynamic has been pushed So Far to the side this season and I just miss them. I Love that they finally addressed how fucked up it was putting the flame in Madi’s head i seriously love love love it. yes it was necessary but it was also extremely traumatic and not something a child should have to go through and I’m so happy they talked about it (for at least a moment anyway)

Lindsey Morgan and her team said You get to deal with trauma, and you get to deal with trauma, and you - . No but for real, I was pleasantly surprised with the things that got addressed this episode- The flame, Octavia beating up Bellamy, the beginning of Becho. Not as good as Bardo lore but we take what we can get.

(Also shout out to Ms. Morgan for an incredible directorial debut, what a talented queen) 

I Loved Octavia saying outright how fucked up it was that she beat up her brother It’s been 84 years too many seasons of waiting for it, her growth this season? Incredible. That being said, literally What The Fuck was that comforting scene between her and Echo I’m. “You’re my family too” bitch Where. I understand Octavia trying to comfort someone she knows her brother cares for, and I know that Octavia saw how lost and angry Echo was, and this is just my own thoughts but probably recognized something in Echo that was reminiscent of her when she lost Lincoln, at least in her eyes, but it came out of no where?? These two have Never had a good relationship and while part of it is obviously Octavia’s growth the scene felt a little stilted. 

So. Echo. First thing right off the bat (as always, this should literally be the expectation but for the people in the back) THE ACTORS ARE NOT THEIR CHARACTERS, THEY ARE REAL PEOPLE, AND PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GODS LEARN TO SEPARATE THE TWO. I have so much respect for all the actors and crew who are trying their absolute best and making this show something I look forward to watching.

I had Such high hopes for Echo. And honestly the tiny little rat part of my brain that never lets things go still wants to hope for a satisfying end to the spy’s story. I Want her to reach a point where she can look at herself with clear eyes, and come through to the other side. I Want her to have happy ending where she understands that though loyalty is admirable, there has to be more in your life, that you cannot dedicate yourself to one person entirely. The realistic part of my brain that has watched this fucking show for years knows better. Tasya Teles is doing an excellent job of Echo’s continuing downward spiral, 10/10 choices. But all the lighting and framing and crazy intense gaze do Not bode well for Echo’s sanity and her carving the Azgeda marks into her face was I think the point of “no return”. Which makes me sad, to see this end for the character, but it is a path I can see Echo going down, as much as it sucks.

“We got shaved Bellamy but at what cost” makes me cackle but honestly, I liked the Ring flashback. Setting aside how late it is to be Doing ring flashbacks, I think it was a Very interesting look at Becho. Echo on the ring is so cute sorry not sorry, like I Love seeing that girl happy. Her and Bellamy’s little banter reminded me of their earliest dynamic which I enjoyed seeing because I do think those characters have an interesting relationship. Also, Bellamy using his own experiences of the dangers of blind loyalty to try and help Echo, love to see it but her “it’s not real” right before he kissed her...the implications. They knew what they were doing and I think it was a needed perspective into their relationship because we have barely anything except for people saying things about it which is Not The Same Thing.

Moving On! HOLY SHIT Y’ALL HOPE AND DIYOZA I FUCKING LOVE THEM THE ACTRESSES WERE INCREDIBLE, THE DYNAMIC WAS AMAZING, BEST STORYLINE OF THE  EPISODE BY FAR. I seriously just Loved watching their scenes, their relationship is So Good and I loved them trying to figure out the new dynamics they have to work through and the way they don’t really know how to act around each other in the beginning but at their core they’re still mother and daughter and Hope’s broken “they took my mommy” almost had me in tears seriously These Two Y’all. 

Hope thinks of Dev as her father...I’m soft :’)

I’m tired of Nikki. That’s literally all I want to say about her this episode like I’m so tired of the Sanctum storylines and I just do Not care about her little revenge plot. Nelson joining her side is stupid but he was in a very emotional place at the moment so I Guess. 

Emori tried So Hard to make things better on Sanctum and I want to give her all the things it’s what she deserves what a queen. (Luisa d’Oliveira an actual goddess I’m so happy she got a chance to shine this episode). Memori consistently being cute and domestic af love that for them, seriously these two fit so well together “ besides, you’ve been worshiping me for years” when I tell y’all I screamed. Also I’m not like, super convinced about the Emori is pregnant theory and don’t really know how I feel about it but “maybe it’s the palace life giving you that glow” was a...weird choice of words. 

Sheihedea shut up forever challenge. Seriously why does anyone let him speak?? The bitch is so dramatic when he starts going on his “I can give you want you want” speech just walk away from him?? Like what’s the bitch going to do start yelling after you?? And let everyone know how desperate he is to get people on his side and also that he only has one real strategy of getting people on his side?? I think the fuck not. Honestly though, he has one (1) method of getting people on his side and it’s psychoanalyzing them while they play chess which goes on ForEVER btw (like this post w h o o p s) i’m so tired of him. Murphy calling him on his misogyny was certainly a highlight of the episode though, good for him.

And Finally, that ending though. Wow I’m super shocked that the shepard is Bill Cadogan. What a surprise. Never saw it coming. I thin the ‘plot twist’ still worked ish mostly because everyone fucking forgot about his existence but idk it was what I expected and I just Don’t Care? You have crystal giants outside and you want me to care about some musty ass white man who’s been in the freezer for thousands of years?  

I genuinely thought (because I’m a dumbass) for half a second that the old dude in the freezer coffin was Bellamy because I though Anders was going to do some dramatic reveal of where he was stashing our king and the rage I felt in that split second when I thought they really had the audacity to do that. But no it was just Another Plot we get to explore :)))))

ALRIGHT CLOWNS YOU MADE IT TO THE END SO. HOW ABOUT THAT BELLARKE CRUMB WE GOT. Can’t believe I Still can’t retire my clown makeup, please just Give Them A Break. Ms. Morgan really did that though, the framing close up of Clarke, the Bellarke theme in the background, all the other characters looking right at Clarke as she breaks on the inside ( and holy shit kudos to Ms. Eliza Jane for that scene, the sheer heartbreak and almost feral desperation in one expression was Everything). I know I said I love parallel’s and who does parallels better then them but I feel like the “they do this every year” audio, just let them be together for more then Five minutes without some new crisis blease. 

Next episode will be a prequel (?) set up (?) which will be...interesting. Going to be real honest I don’t really care about the premise but Becca scenes are always a plus. More of the Diyoza women please, Clarke and Octavia deserve to have a (better) moment grieving over Bellamy together thanks, let Miller say more lines, and p l e a s e let Bellamy and Clarke be on screen together soon I miss them. 

Friendship ended with Gabriel now Levitt is my only friend

[violetfaust]

Season 6B as it should have been: with Belle.

I’m sorry, I just CANNOT stop with this. It would have been so easy to give Belle the presence she deserved--which the story NEEDED--in this arc. Without interfering with the other characters’ arcs or adding a ton of screentime. 

So I’mma do it. I’m a little handicapped because I only watched half the episodes (which is three times as many as for 6A and more than in S5 entirely), so cut me some slack where needed. 

Under a cut because it got long as fuck. 

6.11: Keep the cut scene in which David and Killy betray Belle by siccing Zelena on Gideon, and Belle does something to save him. This is the scene referenced in Rumbelle’s well conversation when she talks about fighting for Gideon and trusting the wrong people. I’d also make this the scene where Zelena loses her magic--Gideon takes it to defeat her. I’m not sure what could have been cut to fit this in; the Boozer Hook scene in the Wish!Verse stands out as filler, but it was pretty funny. Probably some of the August stuff could be condensed. The cut scene was so important since it showed (or would have) that Belle would compromise her principles for her son, and would set up the Charmings vs. the Stiltskins (and align Rumbelle, and show Belle how much Killy is NOT her friend) right off the bat.

6.12: This was the David/Killy ep? I’m fine leaving Belle and Rumbelle out of it.

6.13: I’m honestly okay with an ep that focused on Rumple’s relationship with Gideon...considering that he had none in 6A, it needed building. But Belle shouldn’t have been left wandering in the woods for all of it. They could have fit in 20 seconds of a scene between her and Blue where Blue apologizes for losing Gideon and Belle forgives her and expresses her guilt, saying Gideon’s fate is all her fault. And then after Rumbelle meet in the woods, Belle could say she was going to the library to research, or whatever--something that made it clear she was being active in the quest to help Gideon. 

6.14: I didn’t even remember what happened in this--it was the Split Queen resolution. So I looked it up, and it was pretty packed--Rumbelle can stay out of it. My change would be to make the Queen and Robin together kidnap Zelena to hold for ransom (instead of the Queen kidnapping Robin). That allows for Zelena to have a scene where she expresses regret for what she did to our Robin, and the sisters become closer when Regina rescues powerless Zee. (And Zee does something useful, whatevs, I don’t care.) 

6.15: Killy ep. A big part of my rewrite is cutting Killy’s excellent adventure completely. In 6.14 he chickens out (no help from Gideon) and leaves with Nemo; in 6.15 he has his centric that goes pretty much the same, and he decides to go back and ~~fight for his wuv~~. Jaladdin wish him back to SB with a parting gift of whatever doohickey he eventually was handed by Tiger Lily. Emma doesn’t fall into his arms and tell him it’s her fault he lied, either. Something something (who cares), they’re not re-engaged; they’re going to work on it. (I don’t care how they get together--barf--but I’m not cleaning up the whole season by getting rid of CY altogether. That’s a bigger project.) Belle and Rumple have a tiny scene when they are also seen at the bar for two-for-one night. (It’s NOT a date, they both agree; but they’re exhausted and need to eat; that’s it; 20 seconds in which Bobby and Em have more sexual tension and longing than CY do in a year). Belle is a witness to Gideon stealing Emma’s tear for some stupid reason (was that ever explained?) and is horrified. Belle/Gideon 10-second exchange of angsty eyes. (I will NEVER EVER EVER  get over Belle not having a single one-on-one scene with her baby boy when he’s all grown up and destroying people.) 

6.16: Gideon ep. Since we’ve gotten rid of Killy/Blackbeard we have about six minutes to play with to split between Belle’s and Zelena’s plots. (So Zee helps Regina with Henry’s author problem. Mills family bonding. Zee can express remorse for killing Henry’s father.) Belle doesn’t just hang out in the shop while Rumple goes to the mansion looking for Gideon; she’s with him every step of the way and sees that Gideon is a betraying betrayer and Rumple is a Big Damn Hero who saves Emma. At the end when Emma tells Belle her kid is dead meat, Belle has seen exactly how bad Gid can be but she defends him all the same. Room for a longer Rumbelle bonding scene.

6.17: Again, no Killy gives us time for Belle and/or Zelena. Since Moe was around filming for (cut, of course) flashbacks for this ep, we finally get the (present-day) scene where Belle confronts him for abandoning her in the sleeping curse, and Rumbelle/Rumple fans get Belle’s realization that Rumple was the only person to fight for her and the baby when she was under the curse. Belle tells Moe that Rumple is a much better father than he will ever be (stand up and cheer moment). Killy does something useful to support Emma (who cares) so their engagement’s back on; Regina still saves Snowing by having the town take the curse; Belle and Moe are among the townspeople who drink the potion along with Archie, dwarves, Zee, and randos. Big but quiet beat between Belle and Regina because Belle is helping the people who are still determined to kill her child if necessary. At the end, Belle is with Rumple when he tells Fifi that he knows she has Gid’s heart; Rumbelle stand united against her, but Fi dismisses Belle and tells Rumple THEY will be a family. Belle is troubled; her face asks, Can she trust Rumple? Will he choose her or Fifi? 

6.18: This is the big one. Sorry, Zelena. It’s a Belle centric in which she finds a way to get to the Dark Realm, and she and Rumple go to try to rescue baby Gideon, or get some deus ex mechanism that would allow them to save him (maybe his heart’s back in this realm? I dunno; I can’t plot worth crap but no one is paying me $$$$ to do it either). Flashbacks: Baby Belle and her mommy, and why Belle can speak/read fairy. (Maybe the BlF made a play for Belle when she was a child.) We also find out the plot of Her Handsome Hero: the knight Gideon faces an evil sorcerer; to defeat him he has to go on a quest for a lot of doodads; he’s aided by a woman who turns out to be the evil sorcereress; Gideon and the sorceress respect and forgive each other for the past; he saves her from vengeful and misguided villagers (a mob with a Gastonish lead) by talking them around, and thus becomes her handsome hero. (This is my version of reconciling what Belle said about the book in H3 with the bit she read to Jack and Jill’s kid in 6.9.) Present: Rumbelle work together all the way, but whatever they try to do fails (of course) and Belle basically loses it and has an “I failed” breakdown, blaming herself for everything. This is the big apology scene that some people want, but it’s more about Belle’s long-term inferiority complex finally coming to the fore. Rumple supports her completely, takes the blame for what he did, and tells her that she’s his hero (echo of the Miller’s Daughter phone call). At the very end, Rumbelle realize that some random thing they discovered in the Dark Realm can protect Gideon from being controlled, but only in his dreams. (This fixes the plot point of whether the BlF can control Gid in dreams, and if she can’t, why he was being such a dick in the first place, trying to break up Rumbelle and engineer his own kidnapping.) Belle thanks Rumple for not giving up, and he says, “When you find something worth fighting for, you never give up.” (Cue sobs from Belle and us.)

6.19: Plays out almost exactly as it did. Belle giving Rumple her trust has much more weight now, though, because we’ve seen him earn it back onscreen. (And maybe they both decide to “kidnap” Emma to the dream world because they can’t trust her.) The main difference is that Belle is the one who saves Regina from the BlF by running out into the street (the fight takes place ten seconds from the pawnshop) and braining Fifi over the back of her head with Her Handsome Hero. (Stand up and cheer moment.)

6.20: Snow mentions at the bachelorette party that Belle sent the dresses but couldn’t come because she’s spending time with Gideon. Two seconds of communion between Snow and Emma how weird and hard and yet somehow cool it is to have a child your own age, and how they hope that Belle and Gid can become as close as Emma and Snow are. (Or a little more bittersweet, acknowledgment that maybe Emma and Snow have not always been as close as they want to be. Big hug. Uses Belle and Gid as a springboard for a Snow/Emma beat.) Cut the Rumple/Killy scene, which only served to make Killy into a vengeful asshole on his wedding day and make his vows to Emma look like lies. Replace with Belle and Gideon on the Jolly Roger, packing up Belle’s stuff because they are both moving into the Pink Palace. We can leave the mystery in this scene about whether Rumple has filled them in on his plan, or whether he’s actually working with the BlF and is a betraying betrayer who is keeping them in the dark. Belle shows Gideon some of the stuff she bought for his baby self (the teddy bear, some little onesies), and plays him the tape Rumple made of the poem. They are so happy to be together now, but aching because of what they’ve lost and what Gid’s childhood turned out to be. Very very bittersweet; ends with Belle singing a few lines of a lullabye (her contribution to the musical; maybe she starts singing along with Rumple’s voice on the tape). Cut to Gideon’s tears and mine.

6.21/22: Since Belle has had so much more presence through the REST of the season, it’s actually okay with me if she’s offstage for most of 6.21 (as she was).to keep the mystery of whether Rumple has his memories. But it feels as if their scene in the murder house was definitely cut short; so weird for Rumple to just nope out with a  “Okay, sorry to bother you, just keep cowering back there, never mind me.” So continue it for a minute or so, with Rumple gently coaxing cursed Belle out, giving her the courage to come meet her son. He takes her to the pawnshop with him, to Fifi’s horror. Angsty moment and tears between cursed Belle and cursed Gid. (Possibly she kisses him and breaks his personal curse, the way he did for her in 6.1?) Fifi then shows the whole family that Gid is under her control, with agony for all that he is being forced to blacken his soul despite everything they’ve all done to save him; maybe Gideon actually says something like he wishes he’d never been born. (Or something else so we know grown Gid is okay with being rebabyfied.) Fifi poofs him off to kill Emma, and makes her offer to Rumple that he can have this family and also Baelfire. Belle witnesses Rumple choosing reality and killing his mum. Then everything proceeds as in the real ep. Rumbelle go to the mines to find Gid’s heart. I’m a little torn here because I love the fact that Rumple (like Regina and UNLIKE a certain other someone) always resists temptation and does the right, heroic thing WITHOUT someone pointing him in the right direction and waving pompoms to cheer him on. So keeping his scene between him and his DO imp private would be good. I guess Belle doesn’t sprain her ankle, but they split up because the mines are labyrinthine and they’re trying to cover more ground. Rumple does the right thing, but it fails. He goes back to meet Belle, they comfort each other in their darkest moment, and then baby Gideon appears--only this time there’s some callback to SOMETHING they did in the Dark Realm rather than it just happening out of the clear blue sky. And we’re back to the episode as written.

(via @belle-gifs)

See? WAS THAT SO HARD? With the exception of adding Belle’s centric, most of these changes would give her only about a minute or two more per ep--but they are significant minutes. 

[hermanwatts]

SUPERVERSIVE: A Look at Slice of Life

Slice of life was never my favorite genre, but there are a surprisingly large number of excellent slice of life anime out there, some of them among my favorite shows of all time. Below I’ll highlight some of the best.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 4: Diamond is Unbreakable

Yes, this is slice of life and no, I’m not being ironic. Diamond is Unbreakable is the fourth part of the JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Saga. This time around our protagonist is Josuke Higashikata. Josuke is a typical Japanese high school student living with his single mother in the seemingly quiet town of Morioh. He’s popular with the girls, has great hair, and is generally a pretty swell, if goofy and a little mischievous, guy.

  Naturally, nothing is as it seems. It turns out Josuke is the son of Joseph Joestar, the protagonist of JoJo’s part 2. He has the Stand ability Crazy Diamond, which has the power to break apart and repair whatever it can punch. And not everything in the little town of Morioh is quite as quiet as it seems. In fact, you might say it’s all a little bizarre…

JoJo’s tends to tackle a different genre every part, and while slice of life isn’t the first thing you think of when you think of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, it is a surprisingly effective fit. The cast of part 4 is the most likable of all the JoJo casts, and this is in no small part due to the time we spend seeing them hang out and go on their weekly adventures. Despite having a spectacular villain in Yoshikage Kira (whose episodes are admittedly the best parts of the show), it’s that slice of life, teenagers-just-messing-around vibe that makes part 4 feel so unique. Of course, it helps that part 4 also has some of the coolest Stand battles in the entire series as well. Highly recommended.

Ancient Magus Bride

Chise Hatori is a sixteen year old Japanese girl who has totally given up on life. Unloved, unwanted, and alone, she makes the decision to sell herself into slavery, under the theory that at least the person who buys her would want her around.

At the auction she is bought for an enormous sum of money by a mysterious mage with a…cow?…horse?…skull in place of a head. The mage, Elias, is hundreds of years old, and after giving Chise a home in Britain and treating her with kindness, he tells her his true motive: To make her his apprentice and, one day, his bride.

“Ancient Magus Bride” is an utterly gorgeous show, both visually and musically, with one of my all-time favorite soundtracks – “Here” has to be one of the greatest OP songs of all time. It is impossible to listen to it and not understand the sort of show you’re about to see, to get a sense of the otherworldly fantasy that makes up its heart.

And heart is the name of the game. “Ancient Magus Bride” is full of heart. It takes its time, building up the unusual relationship between Chise and Elias and expanding its world. Luckily, both Chise and Elias – especially Elias – are compelling and fascinating characters.

But it’s no secret that the true draw of Ancienct Magus Bride is its setting. “Ancient Magus Bride” technically takes place in the modern day but feels timeless. The way it captures the world of fairies and magic is dead-on perfect: Dangerous, mysterious, and inhuman, but beautiful too. The rules are never fully explained but it all makes an intuitive sort of sense: This is just how magic works.

In its second half the show drops in quality a bit, but it’s nothing extreme – certainly not a “Death Note” level collapse. In fact I wouldn’t call it a collapse at all. It remains high quality until the end, though I have a big issue with a writing decision made in the finale. But that’s ultimately a small part of what is overall a fantastic, and highly superversive, show. VERY much recommended.

Dennou Coil

Dennou Coil follows the daily lives of a group of children who live in the fictional city of Daikoku. The children have adventures and navigate school and relationships. Nothing special. Your typical kid show….with one difference.

“Dennou Coil” takes place in a cyberpunk future where special glasses overlay a virtual world on top of the real one. The virtual world has realistic animal AI and is incredibly tactile, seemingly a part of the landscape as much as physical objects. Hacking is illegal, but in the kids’ world, hackers are at the top of the social totem pole. And maybe there’s more to the virtual world than meets the eye. Maybe it’s not so virtual after all…

Ah, I love “Dennou Coil”. It’s absolutely fantastic, up there with my very top tier of shows along with standouts like “Death Note”, “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood”, and “Silver Spoon”, among others. The setting is one of the coolest I have EVER seen. “Ordinal Scale”, which also used this idea, didn’t do it justice. All of the ramifications, good and bad, of such a system are thoroughly explored.

The animation and art style are also top notch. I’ve seen comparisons to Ghibli but I think the style is closer to Mamoru Hasoda than anything Ghibli has done. It feels incredibly distinct, and very fun to look at.

At the risk of sounding kind of social justice-y I also like the fact that the main character isn’t your typical adorable moe girl. She isn’t ugly or anything like that, but she’s average looking and kind of nerdy. It’s a refreshing change.

The mystery that undergirds the plot is also fantastic. The episodes leading up to the finale get increasingly intense, reaching an explosive and incredibly superversive climax. This is more than a merely excellent show, but a transcendently brilliant one up there with the greatest anime of all time. I can’t recommend it enough.

Haibane Renmei

An giant egg pops up out of nowhere in a mysterious town called Glie. A girl, who is soon given the name Rakka, hatches from the egg, where she grows wings after hatching. The girl has no memories of her life before she ended up in the egg, yet is able to talk and function normally; all she can remember is a vague dream of falling.

We learn quickly that this is a normal occurrence in the town. The winged people – who are soon given halos as well – are known as the Haibane. They live in abandoned buildings and can take or use whatever items the regular humans leave behind. Despite this arrangement the humans treat the Haibane kindly, and the Haibane in turn work various jobs throughout the town, up until the day they take their “Day of Flight” and leave forever. Throughout the show Rakka slowly learns more about the origins and secrets of the Haibane and about her best friend, Reki, the oldest Haibane who hasn’t yet taken her Day of Flight.

That’s a long set up for a pretty high concept show, and to its credit the show takes advantage of that concept. “Haibane Renmei” starts off as a dreamlike and fascinating slice of life, but as the story goes on and some of the mysteries slowly get answers the bits and pieces add up into a sort of psychological mystery centering around Rakka and Reki.

It’s hard to say anything more about it, because what makes this show great – and it is great – is best experienced without knowing about it in advance. It is an in-depth exploration of the themes of redemption and forgiveness, ending with the conclusion that life really does have inherent value and meaning. The slice of life elements are interesting because the setting and concepts being explored are interesting, but what brings it to the next level is the nuance and intelligence with which it explores its themes and resolves its character arcs. Once again, this is very highly recommended.

Silver Spoon

I already wrote about “Silver Spoon” at length, so I’m keeping this short. “Silver Spoon” is the story of Hachiken, an extremely intelligent first year high schooler who succumbed to intense pressure from his overbearing father and bombed his entrance exams. At the recommendation of a counselor he makes the decision to go to an agricultural school, presumably to get a new perspective on life. And that’s the story. No fancy sci-fi or supernatural elements here.

Mostly what I want to do now is clarify something: I don’t think I made it clear enough that I REALLY loved this show. It’s so good, it shares an honor with “Magi” as being the only unfinished anime whose story I decided to continue through the manga (which is also fantastic and highly recommended – man I hope it gets a season 3 one day…).

The characters are fantastic, and it shares the theme from “Fullmetal Alchemist”, Arakawa’s other masterpiece, of exploring the value of life, this time through the food we eat. The soundtrack is gorgeous and it has some of my favorite tracks in anime, like “Hello Especially”, which somehow manages to have a Japanese-country twang to it. Like “Dennou Coil” before it, this is a slice of life that transcends the category of “Great”. It is among the best anime I’ve ever seen, and I can’t recommend it enough. Considering it’s me we’re talking about, you KNOW it has to be great at everything it does if I’m recommending it despite it having no real action, magic or gadgets. It really is THAT good.

Robotics;Notes

Robotics;Notes is the story of Kaito and Aki, two childhood friends, now in high school, who start a robotics club with the goal of building a giant robot of their own and winning a robotics competition. As the story unfolds a conspiracy is discovered involving the company that makes the robotics ubiquitous in society, ultimately culminating in a one on one battle to, uh…actually I’ll let you all see that one for yourself.

Nobody ever really remembers “Robotics;Notes” exists, yet it was a big enough deal at the time it came out to get a dub. It’s too bad, because I honestly love the show. What makes it are Kaito and Aki. Kaito starts off looking dangerously like he’s going to become unbearable quickly, with the “gimmick” that he’s obsessed with video games and will only do favors for someone if they can beat him in a game. It becomes clear pretty quickly, however, that Kaito’s too-cool-for-school attitude is a persona he uses to cover up the fact that he’s a compassionate and kind person, willing to go out of his way to help people and prepared to make sacrifices for those he’s closest to.

Aki is great as well. She’s your typical super-cheerful anime heroine, whose boundless optimism and drive to accomplish her goals move much of the plot. Like with Kaito, this exterior masks an interior depth, with her optimism fueled largely by a deep-seated fear of failure and the ever-present feeling that she’s somehow disappointing her more intelligent older sister, whose parting words before leaving their home constantly haunt her. The likability of the leads is the main thing that keeps the viewer invested in their story.

The conspiracy underlying the whole plot ends up getting convoluted and more than a little absurd, but I can’t deny that it lead to more than one great scene and a cool as hell finale. It’s a shame this show has become so forgotten, because I highly recommend it.

Interesting side note: “Robotics;Notes” is one of a series of shows that takes place in the larger “Steins;Gate” universe, but outside of a couple of very subtle references this can basically be ignored completely.

I have watched two other slice of life anime, “Clannad” and “March Comes in Like a Lion”. While neither was bad, per se, I did not like either show for a variety of reasons I may go into another time.

I can confirm that, for those of you who like such things, each show has a very good dub but “Silver Spoon”, which has no dub at all, and “Diamond is Ubreakable” (“Clannad” also has a horrendous dub, incidentally). “Diamond is Unbreakable” may have a good dub, but I can’t tell you as I’ve never seen it.

I’m quite glad I decided to give slice of life a shot in the end. If I hadn’t, I’d have missed out on some excellent shows. Give them a shot and see for yourself.

Next up: Recommended comedies. It’s coming!

SUPERVERSIVE: A Look at Slice of Life published first on https://sixchexus.weebly.com/