#the vibe is so different and they're just precious

[cheshiresense]

Hello Anon, I hope you won't mind if I screenshot pieces of your ask, I read it but my muse vaulted over your first 3 questions and then took off on your 4.1, and now here we are, so I'm just going to chop these up and post them depending on what I can come up with.

This started out with TBTP!Shunsui never getting his memories and then kind of spiralled. He still doesn't get his memories but... well, you'll see. It really ran away from me lmao. No thoughts behind it, just vibes, I hammered this out in like fifteen minutes and it felt like a fever dream.

Starrk would definitely have complicated feelings about it. Like at the start when he agreed to go back, I think a part of him even then expected for the entire thing to end with his death, even if they manage to neutralize Aizen and defeat the Wandenreich, but whether or not he manages to survive it all, he definitely has no plans to get together with TBTP!Shunsui.

For one, obviously they're not the same person. I wouldn't say they're completely different, and I imagine TBTP!Shunsui would be a lot closer to Winter War!Shunsui, whom Starrk had met first. But TYBW!Shunsui is the one Starrk knew best, and TYBW!Shunsui suffered quite a few losses in a very short time. Like to Shinigami, even a hundred years probably isn't that much, especially to one who's already lived over a thousand years. But TYBW!Shunsui lost everyone he'd known for a thousand years in like the space of a week, he lost his mentor, he lost his closest friend, and on top of all that, he had the weight of a war fuelled by a grudge a thousand years in the making dumped on his shoulders, he had the duties of Captain-Commander of the Gotei 13 dumped on him, he had the deaths of literal thousands of Shinigami dumped on him, and then in this AU he had to be the one to carry everyone else through another 7 years of waging an endless bloody war that after a certain point neither side was ever going to win, but he had no way of stopping it either.

That sort of thing would take its toll on anyone. TYBW!Shunsui was a man changed by loss and grief and more responsibilities than he'd ever wanted. I imagine he would've had very little time or cause to still remember how to be the person he was before the Quincy War when he still had it in him to relax and enjoy life.

But I also imagine that Starrk being there had helped. Starrk has always been a quick learner, and it's not like he'd really known anyone there save Shunsui. He stuck close to his Shinigami, watched and learnd the way Shunsui strategized for each assault and skirmish, contributed what he could where he could, pitched in by keeping the Fourth Divison alive and functioning, shouldered some of that weight by finally wielding all his strength and mowing down entire battlefields of Quincy on his own just so other Shinigami wouldn't have to and Shunsui would thereby have one less thing to worry about.

And in the precious stolen moments in-between, Shunsui had someone to go home with, someone who guarded him while he slept, someone to distract him from the war (from his failure to protect yet more Shinigami fallen in battle under his command), someone to sit beside who knew the same kind of loneliness and didn't recoil from it, who was content to hold him and share in his silence when he just needed a moment to breathe.

I imagine there wouldn't have been many things to be happy about, but I think they'd still manage to carve out some happiness between them. Starrk had known very little of things like human food and clothes and games and books. Shunsui had been delighted to introduce whatever he could to him. They learned about each other, about their similarities and differences, about their strengths and weakness and hopes and fears, secrets exchanged in the dead of night in the safety of a shared office, a shared bed, a shared home. And even in the midst of a war and so much death and destruction, they managed to build something beautiful and strong, something that would've been long-lasting too under any other circumstances.

Because then Shunsui dies, a year before the true end of the war, and Starrk had perhaps not seen it coming even though there was never any real guarantee on a battlefield, but it had also been an unspoken certainty of his, something he knew the way he knew bones were breakable and blood was red and murder was easy--the day Kyouraku Shunsui dies would be the day Coyote Starrk would also fall. With any luck, Shunsui would only die over his dead body, but fortune has never favoured Starrk, and he'd figured the other way was fine too. That way, Starrk wouldn't be yet another person in a long line of people to have left Shunsui behind and alone once again, and he'd thought it would make no real difference. If Shunsui dies, Starrk would surely be minutes behind, by his own hand or otherwise.

That doesn't happen. It doesn't happen because the rest of the Gotei had gotten over any qualms they might've had about working with an Arrancar or even Aizen's former Primera Espada years ago, and besides, Starrk had already broken all the known rules and beliefs several years back by becoming a whole soul and evolving into something no one had ever seen before. He couldn't really be considered a Hollow anymore, for all that there was no other name for him either. And with all that he'd done - following Shunsui into battles and meetings and everything in-between with the kind of steadfast devotion the tide held for the moon, burning the midnight oil right alongside all the other captains and lieutenants because even a hopeless war generated paperwork and headaches as much as it did low supplies and emergency triage and lists and lists of dead, powering through enemy forces to save even just one more Shinigami with the kind of firepower rivalled only by the likes of Kurosaki Ichigo and Aizen Sousuke, and carrying the Fourth on his back by sheer force of will and a truly terrifying mind that had soaked up every medical text he'd had time to read and every medical procedure he'd had time to learn or extrapolate or straight-up invent out of fatal necessity - Starrk had long become a pillar the Gotei 13 couldn't do without, a figure at their helm as familiar and reassuring as the long unwavering shadow Kyouraku had cast. And in the devastating wake of even their Captain-Commander's death, with only a handful of captains and their squads remaining, they couldn't afford another titanic loss on its heels.

And, as Hirako had been the one to point out, all glittering ruthless eyes borne from desperation and pragmatism--Kyouraku Shunsui had protected Soul Society with his very last breath; if they were to ever meet again, would Starrk even be able to look Shunsui in the eye if he wouldn't even stick around to try and defend the place and people Shunsui had loved enough to die for?

(A year later, Mimihagi would use the exact same argument to receive the answer he needed to send the second envoy the Soul King had chosen back in time to save the world.)

(Perhaps the lesson Starrk had learnt best at Shunsui's side had been the one of duty. Or perhaps it had been the one Shunsui hadn't even meant to teach but Starrk had learnt anyway, had held closest to his heart, the one of love.

They were about the same thing in the end, when it came to what Starrk would do for Shunsui.)

Hirako had even dragged Ichigo to stand before him, Isane too, each and every last person Starrk would even nominally call a comrade and was still alive--Hirako had put them all in front of him, and then he'd asked if Starrk could really go to his grave in peace.

The bastard had gotten his way in the end, and Starrk had never come as close to hitting someone unprovoked as he had right then. He'd been left the sole survivor once again, left to soldier on alone, and some days, he has no idea how he keeps going.

(Some days, Starrk had wondered, still wonders, if Shunsui had known his death was coming, or had known what would happen should his death come to pass, so he had made… arrangements accordingly. Most days, Starrk knows it's best not to know the answer because it would probably be the one thing he would never be able to forgive Shunsui for.)

So Starrk had hung on for another year and done his best for what was left of the Shinigami, for the dwindling pockets of civilians, for Kurosaki Ichigo. Anyone with eyes could tell though, that he'd just been waiting until the war was over one way or another, until the day he could lie down and not wake up again.

Of course, as it turned out, he wasn't even allowed that much, and a lifetime later, Starrk is still alive because death just won't take him, or he just won't die.

He has zero desire to even look at TBTP!Shunsui. The first time he has to anyway and sees two eyes instead of one, it's like a knife to the gut. They're lighter too, somehow, without the void of grief and exhaustion and quiet despair bruising their depths. His gaze still holds a weight to it, he's still loved and lost before, he's still lived a thousand years with all the joys and sorrows that entails, but he hasn't lost everything, hasn't lost those dearest to him, hasn't had to pick himself up and force himself to march on anyway towards a dead-end future, and for a moment, it's like Starrk is looking at a stranger.

He thinks, randomly, bizarrely, in those first few minutes of their second first meeting, that it's a good thing he always wears gloves when he goes out.

He thinks, madly, nonsensically, that if he were to touch this Shunsui now, it would stain him black with desolation, or red with blood that would never run dry.

He thinks, abruptly, hysterically, that he'd somehow forgotten the hole Shunsui had left behind with his death, as if the past year had numbed him so thoroughly that it had frozen even his grief in its tracks, except it all comes roaring back now, an empty pit that's always been waiting for him to remember it, threatening to drown him whole. Frankly, he would welcome it if he thought it would kill him once and for all.

It's frighteningly easy to pretend nothing is wrong. Perhaps it shouldn't be. He's never been one to emote outwardly, always been good at displaying nothing but impassivity without even trying, to the point where Shunsui had remarked more than once that it was difficult to read him (and then pouted and asked what Starrk was thinking - don't leave him out, it's hurtful - and he'd always want to know even when Starrk was clearly thinking of nothing important at all).

He greets this Shunsui politely, with the courtesy an Academy student should afford a captain, he makes smalltalk as necessary, he doesn't look at anyone in particular but also doesn't avoid anyone's gaze, and then he lets himself fall silent as Ichigo draws everyone's attention again with no deliberate effort whatsoever when he blows up at something his cousin says.

It's easy to fade into the background after that, to fade into himself, retreating into his own mind with the ease of long practice. Once upon a time, he could spend years like this, buried so deep in his own head that when he surfaced and became aware again, the sand dunes would've shifted and changed, and new mountains of bones would've already formed around him.

The few times eyes turn back to him, he nods in all the right places and responds at all the right times and pretends the world hasn't become white noise in his ears.

(He'd had these episodes a few times during the war, never when there was immediate work to be done or a fight to be fought, but in their downtime, it would sneak up on him. It had never lasted more than a couple hours at a time, but he'd scared the hell out of Shunsui the first time, had found himself at the Fourth when he'd woken, but then he'd explained, and Shunsui's expression had been unreadable but his eyes had looked pained. He'd shaken his head when Starrk had said he could leave him alone or just smack him out of it, either way he'd come back sooner or later, but Shunsui had refused, and every time it had happened after that, Starrk would wake with his head pillowed against Shunsui's shoulder or chest or thigh, Shunsui's arm wrapped around him or his bulk at his back and a blanket draped around them both, warm and comfortable and never alone.)

(He is alone again now, and he doesn't understand why it's so difficult to relearn something he had known for far longer than he hadn't.)

He's here to check Fujiwara's Hohou - Shunsui's cousin, Shunsui never mentioned her, she must've died long ago in the future - so he does that when he's cued and works her through the problem and suggests a few exercises, and that's that. He practically sleepwalks through the rest of this little gathering, barely manages to feel vaguely relieved when it looks like they can all finally part ways, and hazily wonders if he can get away with booting Ichigo back to his own room for the night. He's pretty sure he's going to end up scaring the kid if he falls even further into his own mind.

Then Shiba Kaien does him a favour out of the blue, nagging Ichigo until the kid snaps and irritably agrees to spend the night at his family's compound. Distantly, Starrk is aware of being invited as well, but that's easy enough to refuse, citing an exam in the morning - or maybe he says assignment due, he's not sure - and the Clan Head says next time then, and- and-

He blinks and it's time to go. Nothing seems amiss so he inclines his head at the captains and lieutenant, bids Ichigo and Fujiwara farewell, and then takes his leave in a flash of Shunpou.

Starrk has seconds to feel nebulously pleased with himself, another second to remind himself to avoid the Eighth like the plague from here on out, and then even that's gone as he locks himself in his room, and the rest of the night is lost. He is more than happy to lose it.

He'd had exactly zero presence of mind to catch the way Kyouraku Shunsui had been staring - if discreetly - at him the entire time, from under his hat or out of the corner of his eye, and by the end of the entire encounter, the man had even shaken his kimono over his hands to hide the way they'd slowly curled into white-knuckled fists.

Shunsui doesn't know how no one else had felt it, bleeding into the air like a severed artery--a bottomless chasm of loneliness and grief that had felt like it should've been screaming with the agony of it, except there'd only been the deafening silence of barren wastelands, an emptiness reflected in Starrk’s perfectly blank eyes and perfectly sculpted non-expression, and Shunsui doesn't understand why he alone had evidently just taken a metaphorical dive straight into the man's very soul.

(Starrk would've, if he'd noticed. After all, a lifetime ago, Kyoukotsu had loved bringing his wolves back to her soulscape to play with, and Katen had often visited his soulscape in turn for tea and conversation. His and Shunsui's souls had long learned to recognize each other, mingling in a way that had transcended all possible boundaries, and in the face of that, what did a little thing like time and space matter?)

When Starrk had left, Shunsui had almost followed, had wanted to with an instinctual sort of urgency he couldn't even explain to himself, let alone anyone else. Several times, he'd almost reached out while the others were talking, to provide comfort perhaps, or to take some of the pain even, and it had only been the equally intuitive certainty that doing so would break something in Starrk that had ultimately stopped him each time.

"Kyouraku, is something wrong?" Ukitake asks once the others are all gone, because of course his best friend had noticed something off with Shunsui, even if not with Starrk.

Shunsui reaches up and tugs on the brim of his hat and doesn't know how to explain that wrong could not even begin to cover whatever the hell had just happened.

His insides are still shuddering like they've been ripped out very slowly. He still wants to run all the way to the Academy this instant. And he feels-

He feels inexplicably like he's lost something beloved and doesn't know if he'll ever get it back.

[hotasfahrenheit]

There's been far less to say about the The Eclipse episodes of Our Skyy 2 because they're actually telling a cute story with a plot so it's fine

The goofy movie scenes were all cute, Akk being dramatic over Aye seeming to not know his birthday is soon is silly but they're still being cute together, Kan and Thua are cute, they all deserve this low stakes chill vacation they're on and I'm here for it

[arklay]

i recently had the opportunity to commission the amazing @666chevy on twitter for a spread of diana (and wesker, of course) !! this came out perfect and i haven’t stopped staring at it since ♡ chevy is so kind and easy to work with, and he did diana so much justice, so i just cannot recommend him enough if you’d like to get a commission done ! 

[eclips-moon]

Batboy's dating younger Reader headcanon

Hey y'all ! So this is my first time writing, please feel free to give your thoughts on the headcanon and if you want I would really appreciate some tips and advice :)

Tim Drake (Robin/Red Robin)

Protective AF: Tim would be a bit obsessed with keeping you safe, like... he already has a big brother vibe, so dating someone younger turns that into overdrive. He’s always checking on you, making sure you’ve eaten, got home safe, etc. Dude’s basically your life manager.

Super Respectful: He would NEVER cross any boundaries, especially knowing that you’re younger. He’s all about giving you space to grow at your own pace, while quietly supporting you from the sidelines.

Overachiever mode: Expect random gifts like "I did your homework for you" or "I hacked into the school system, and you’re now top of the class." He’d be lowkey smug about it but also super sweet, blushing when you thank him.

Jason Todd (Red Hood)

The Rebel with a soft spot: Jason? He’ll tease you about being younger, throwing around nicknames like "kid" or "baby" just to rile you up, but deep down, he’s got this protective instinct that runs DEEP. Anyone messes with you? They're about to meet Red Hood.

Conflicted feelings: Jason’s probably the most worried about the age gap. He’s already got a lot of self-doubt, so he’s constantly overthinking whether he's bad for you or if you deserve better. You’d have to reassure him that you’re all in, age difference and all.

Gentle Giant moments: Under all that sarcasm and tough exterior, Jason’s a softie. When you’re alone, he’s way more affectionate than you’d expect—always making sure you’re okay, wrapping you up in his leather jacket when you’re cold, stuff like that. He has this big-brother energy but romantic vibes creep in, making it all the more intense.

Dick Grayson (Nightwing)

Mr. Charming: You think the age difference bothers him? Nah. Dick’s the smooth talker of the Batfam, and he’ll joke about being your "wise older boyfriend," but he takes the relationship seriously.

Casual PDA King: He’s super affectionate. Always sneaking in little kisses on your forehead, holding your hand, or pulling you into his lap when you’re both chilling. He’d lowkey treat you like you’re the most precious person in his world.

Big Brother Mode Activated: Being the oldest of the Batboys, he’s super used to looking after younger siblings. This means he’ll also be extra watchful of you, even when you don’t realize it. He won’t overstep, but his protective side would slip through when he thinks you’re not noticing.

Damian Wayne (Robin)

Denial City: Damian hates admitting he cares for you at first because you’re younger. He’s probably the most resistant to the idea of romance. He’d tell himself (and you) that you’re too immature or inexperienced for a relationship... but his actions say otherwise.

Tsundere Vibes: He’ll brush off anything romantic at first. Compliments? "Tt, don’t be ridiculous." But then he’ll turn around and make sure no one else gets too close to you. If anyone flirts with you, they're getting the classic Damian death glare.

Secret Softie: Eventually, he’d accept his feelings, and when he does, he’s surprisingly thoughtful. Damian may not say "I love you" often, but he shows it through his actions—whether it's training with you, sharing his books, or letting you sit in on his quiet moments with his pets.

[adventures-in-mangaland]

Another Dead Boy Detectives Fic Rec List

Netflix sucks and I'm sad, but the Dead Boy Detectives fandom continues to be awesome, so here are some more very quick fic recs!*

Tonight's the Night You Fight Your Best Mate's Dad by Opossum_Subatomic

Everyone's Alive College/University 5+1 things fic featuring Charles bringing Edwin coffee and slowburn payneland. Also Family/Wedding Drama involving Everyone Thinks They're Dating so acute is verges on Fake Dating. This author is seriously fantastic, everything they write is gold.

You should also check out Kissing Lessons, which is a high school AU that does what it says on the tin while also giving non-binary Monty and polyamory.

Ornithology by Rosie447

Monty gets a job working at Tragic Mick's. This one's not actually payneland, being gen and Monty-centric. I know, gasp. It's a fantastic and very sweet exploration of Monty discovering his sense of self post canon and works as a great metaphor for recovery from toxic family/relationships. Also, the ex-animal solidarity and bonding with Mick is lovely.

what some circumstance stole by Chrome

The Sandman crossover featuring Edwin and Hob being kidnapped and tortured together. Their friendship is really wholesome with eventual Father Figure and Found Family Feels for the whole agency and background Dreamling.

dandelion wine (life and death in summertime) by world_wanderer

Payneland Right Person Wrong Time AU in which neither of them die but they still meet and become friends. The May/December friendship is sweet but tragic, with a bittersweet ending. Superb.

Mirror Image by Anonymous

Charles' afterlife gets taken over my an evil shape-shifting doppelganger, leaving him with plenty of time to regret never talking to Edwin about his feelings. Angsty but with Feelings Realisation and the Power of Love and Friendship vibes.

my healing needed more than time by babyseraphim

Case fic with de-aged Charles! Baby Charles is precious but be prepared for discussions of childhood trauma/abuse.

The same author has also written I'm So Aces at Babysitting, which is a really cute two-chaptered AU featuring Charles and Edwin babysitting the kid versions of each other, with bonus Crystal and Niko doing the same. It's very wholesome and the author writes little kids really well.

Pouring into me by tragedy_machine

Love me some "Charles wants to date Edwin to figure out his feelings but gets turned down" fic. Feelings are hard, OK?

thank u, next by KiaraSayre

Edwin fucks and Charles seethes. It's very funny and also features some interesting worldbuilding with the Fae.

Like We've Never Known Hurt by dearheartdont

Just cute established relationship PWP and praise kink. So good.

all of these hollows by handwrittenhello

The boys are alive again but sans memories. Can they still find each other and prove their devotion to the Night Nurse?? While also evading heavenly and hellish forces trying to keep them apart??? Very interesting concept executed well.

Suo Gân by emryses

The agency takes on the case of a traumatised Edwardian ghost searching for her missing baby... Read it for Edwin family feels.

Where Primroses Bloom by PantryJesus

Reading aloud as a love language and Watership Down feels. Idk, I'm now convinced that Edwin is kind of rabbit-coded with the whole "if they catch you they'll kill you. But first they must catch you" thing. A lovely well written fic.

I'm so sick of online love by Hse11z5

College/University AU where the boys meet through a dating app. It's cute.

you can have the best of me, baby (and I will give you anything) by aletterinthenameofsanity

Again, it's the Friends with Benefits but with real feelings and mutual pining for me. Now has a Charles PoV companion fic.

True Love's Kiss by Asidian

In which Charles curses himself with a Sleeping Beauty enchantment in order to confirm his feelings for Edwin and Crystal is the real MVP. I love this one because the boys are both SO stupid but in very different in-character ways.

I also recommend Promised, in which they kind of play the Green card angle to keep Edwin out of Hell? Which honestly needs to be more of a trope. And Tight Quarters, starring the boys trapped in a magic circle, leading to Forced Proximity induced Feelings Realization (in more ways than one! 😉).

Something I Can Turn To by DontOffendTheBees

I love some domestic fluff, in this case as an Everyone's Alive/Childhood Friends AU in which the boys are poor but happy living together. I liked how they both survive their respective traumas, but Reality Ensues.

I also recommend Lived My Whole Life Before the First Light for a lovely but melancholy Soulmate AU that goes for the "seeing colours" trope for extra wistful angst.

Dining at the Ritz by TerresDeBrume

Meeting the Parents fic in which Edwin's parents are awful and Charles is Not Having It. This has Everyone Thinks They're Dating and autistic Edwin stimming representation, plus discussions of racism, classism and ableism. The fic is also part of a great Modern AU series in which the boys attended St Hilarion's at the same time and Charles saved Edwin from a non-supernatural but still almost deadly prank. Highly recommended!

The Case of the Couples Retreat by juliasfanart

Listen, I can't get enough of undercover fake dating/relationships at a couples retreat, OK? Some minor angst but overall very cute and fluffy.

acu (aysar cinematic universe) by ObsessedWithFandom

The agency is hired to solve the mystery of Charles' death and bring his killers to justice. I'm genuinely obsessed with this series; I love its OCs and Charles having an exboyfriend gives Edwin a fun crisis. Plus haunting Charles' killers is very satisfying and cathartic. Just imagine they're Netflix execs, y'all.

*Not actually quick, as it turns out. 😅

I love doing these lists because I always think I've only got a few recs and then I look back over my recent bookmarks and I've got a metric ton of great fics to rec. You guys are so talented. ❤️

[weirdmarioenemies]

Name: Spoing

Debut: Super Mario Galaxy

Spoing is a jumping spider! Though it's not quite a jumping spider, you know? Like how a lynx is a big cat, but it's not a big cat. You know. But even so, I would like to express my appreciation to real jumping spiders! With their extra conventional cuteness, they capture the hearts of even people who are scared of other bugs, and as such are ambassadors for the rest of spiderkind. A gateway to appreciating some other creatures, which some fools may call "less charismatic", as if it is not charismatic to, for example, dangle a blob of silk to catch moths like a little fisherman. Anyway, as president, I will make sure all jumping spiders are compensated for their services. In dollars.

I don't know if I'm just saying this because I've been replaying Galaxy recently and have a sort of recency bias, but Spoing really might be one of the cutest Mario enemies ever! We all know, we all love, the eyes-in-a-void face! And on a BUG? Yowza! I've seen that kind of face on crabs and sometimes bagworms (I think?) but I'm not sure I've seen it on any other arthropod, and ESPECIALLY not a spider. I don't know how Spoing would hunt. Would it just shove prey into the eye void? Is it also a mouth? That would be pretty awesome.

You know, their faces make them look kind of like funny astronauts... and they only have four limbs, not eight. Are these truly spiders? Were they once human, until something unspeakable happened? And will it happen to me someday? I hope so!

Spoings mainly appear in Space Junk Galaxy, which I think we on the Weird Mario Enemies Office Pizza Party Email Chain all agree is a really great galaxy, with impeccable vibes. It's space at some of its most lonely, as opposed to spectacle, and I REALLY appreciate the presence of spiders here. Spiders and their webs are always used to visually communicate the idea of a place or object being unused, abandoned. And this galaxy is just a bunch of forgotten debris, not inhabited by any sapient civilization! If moths are the mascot of empty wallets, spiders are the mascots of forgotten attics! Spoings to not seem to make webs, which, yeah, actively hunting spiders do not! But they might make Sling Pods. And Sling Pod Galaxy is... well, I don't want to use this post to criticize a galaxy that precious spiders may have had a part in designing. So I will move on to...

Name: Spangler

Debut: Super Mario Galaxy

Spoing's got an evolutionary relative, and rather than being a spider boing, this is a spider dangler! It at first looks like a recolor of Spoing, but it actually lacks the fuzziness of Spoing's abdomen, and it DOES have a big ol' spinneret, which it is always using to dangle on a silk thread! One big one, like a really long string cheese. These ones debut in Ghostly Galaxy, indicating that they are spookier than the more generalized Spoings. Is it the silk? Is silk Spooky? It is what ends up encasing the spider's prey... like a MUMMY! Maybe I'm on to something here!

I really like Spoing and Spangler, and that both exist! It may be sort of the same design for two different enemy behaviors, but they're both behaviors that make sense for the design, and it's a design I always love to see. It's like they're closely related species! Maybe a population of Spanglers was separated from the others and ended up in the more barren Space Junk Galaxy, where there was not nearly as much infrastructure to dangle from, and where only active hunting was a viable strategy. And over time, Spoings evolved from this population! Actually, maybe they even use the Sling Pods for hunting, when we're not looking, launching themselves at unsuspecting prey...

And just to make sure we're not appreciating fictional creatures over real ones too much, I should tell you that there is, indeed, a spider that slingshots itself at prey using its web. Sometimes reality is stranger than fiction. And it's often a spider's fault! The variety of ways in which different species use their silk is honestly one of the most incredible things in all of nature!

[thankskenpenders]

IDW's Fang the Hunter miniseries! All four issues are out now! I don't have as much to say about it as I did with the Knuckles show, but I do have some thoughts.

So! This is a pretty fun miniseries. I liked it.

It's fun to see Ian get to write a four-issue arc starring the Hooligans, his precious boys, with a B-plot showing Sonic and Tails' perspective on this little adventure. As always, Ian captures the characters' voices well. In particular, I really liked Bean in this, who despite being a slapstick screwball is actually a pretty perceptive guy. He often acts as sort of a voice of reason for Fang, seeing right through his sweet talking and pointing out how badly all of their schemes go but sticking around nonetheless just for funsies. And the art (illustrated this time by Mauro Fonseca for the first issue and Thomas Rothlisberger for the rest) is as good as we've come to expect from IDW's Classic Sonic output. Overall, this is a fun little romp that captures the vibes of the Classic era very well.

...But...

Well, as I've said before with the Amy and Tails anniversary specials, I feel like we're kind of seeing diminishing returns with these Classic spinoffs. They're fun, sure, and very nice to look at, but their writing always leave me wanting more.

A big part of this is just that there's just less to work with compared to the Modern universe. The Classic cast is much smaller, and within that cast there are a bunch of characters currently going unused, some of which are currently off-limits. Aside from the appearance of the Witchcarters in Tails' special, we've pretty much just stuck with the cast of Sonic Mania and the Hooligans, as established in the first special. No Chaotix, no Battle Bird Armada, barely any Honey. (Classic Vector was able to get a tiny cameo in the Amy special only because he was so obscured that it gave the IDW team plausible deniability to say it was actually a different character if Sega complained.) It's a very small box, and Ian's recent Classic comics haven't particularly expanded the boundaries of that box. They're just excuses to play the hits for old times' sake. And that was a lot of fun the first time around, but the novelty is starting to wear off for me.

I will admit, sure, the tighter focus on a specific set of characters from the games is a big part of the appeal of these Classic comics. They're simpler. They're nostalgic. They're shining the spotlight on characters that can't be used in the main series. They're the slavishly faithful old school Sonic comics that we could never get in the '90s, because the comics we did get diverged into their own continuities with tons of new characters. I get all that.

But the thing is, the Sonic comics have always added all those new characters because you can just do so much more with them. The game cast is great! But they're corporate mascots Sega keeps on a tight leash. You can do so much with a character like Sally or Surge that you could never do with any of the game characters, and by pushing into new territory with these new characters you can also bring out interesting new sides of the game cast. Maybe Sonic himself can't have some crazy complex character arc, but you can see how he'll respond to the things going on with these other characters, and how these other characters' arcs are informed by their relationships with Sonic.

So I look at the Fang miniseries, and I'm like. This was pretty fun. But by the end, what was the point of the story? What did we learn about the Hooligans as characters that we didn't already know? Is the point just to depict an adventure where things go off the rails a little and Bean and Bark end up a little miffed, explaining why they weren't with Fang in Superstars? There's potential for an arc there about the dissolution of the group, but it really does come off more as the type of spat these three probably get into all the time before coming back together for the next job. It's neither super dramatic nor super funny, feeling more like it ends on a fairly matter-of-fact note where Fang's like "welp, time to go do the events of Sonic Superstars" at the end, not particularly plussed by anything that happened in this arc. What we're left with is four issues of the Hooligans encountering recognizable characters and visiting recognizable locations from the Classic games, with little that really feels new or fresh here.

Ironically, the most interesting story element to me here (aside from Bean's characterization) is its tie to the main comics, something previous specials couldn't do since Sega had yet to reunify the Classic and Modern timelines. The plot of this comic revolves around Fang following the myth of the "eighth Chaos Emerald," riffing on both old playground rumors and Sonic the Fighters. What they actually end up finding isn't an extra Emerald, but rather the Warp Topaz that would eventually end up in Starline's possession in the Modern era, having apparently been found by the Hard-Boiled Heavies in the cave seen in the 900th Adventure special.

That's kinda neat, and the abilities of the Warp Topaz are used in fun ways. But this isn't exactly something to write home about for people who aren't lore nerds like me. There isn't a particularly meaningful connection between Fang and Starline's arcs here due to the presence of the Warp Topaz, it's just a thing for the wiki. Again, Ian's in his connect the dots mode a little more than I'd like here.

(...So wait, if Starline didn't find the Warp Topaz himself, did he track down the cave where the Heavies found it to leave that "greatness began here" graffiti? Eh, I guess that sounds like something he'd do. He's known for nothing if not his obsessiveness.)

So, again. This was a pretty good miniseries. This all makes it sound like I hated it, but I did like it overall. I particularly liked seeing the Hooligans fight the Hard-Boiled Heavies. But it leaves me feeling less fulfilled than something like Scrapnik Island or Tangle & Whisper or Imposter Syndrome. I get that, by the very definition of the word, Classic Sonic is always going to remain trapped in amber to some extent. This isn't the version of the franchise that's supposed to grow and change. That's what Modern Sonic does. Classic Sonic will always be trapped in the early '90s. I'm not asking for them to add a dozen new characters with complex dramatic arcs to the Classic comics, since that's not what Classic Sonic is about. But I think the other Classic Sonic stories not written by Ian - i.e. the driving school story by the McElroys and the two stories about Amy by Gale Galligan - show that you can tell fresh new Classic Sonic stories that aren't just about remixing the hits from the games.

If we're going to continue getting Classic Sonic comics from Ian (and I hope we do!), then I just hope he's able to find a better balance between familiar and new ideas, like he and Evan do so consistently with their Modern Sonic output.

[marvel-starwarsfangirl]

I rewatched the CW Bad Batch episodes and it feels so long ago since we saw the team whole. Not to mention the old armor since the boys recently stripped theirs. Their CW vibe was so goofy and sibling energy. Now, they're worn down and dead set on saving the most precious person in their life. The tonal shift is kinda shocking at times.

Hunter and Wrecker have become much more serious. They've grown and have suffered great losses. Comparing past and present feels like night and day. Hunter now comes with dad mode and is so determined to find Omega. Wrecker isn't as loud or impatient.

Crosshair is waaaay different. To be fair though, he's suffered so much both emotionally and physically. The snark still exists, but he's practically an open book when compared to his first appearance. He's so expressive and talkative now. The Empire broke him and then Omega swooped in to help. I started doing a character study for him because there is so much to talk about, but that's a post for another day.

Echo is also more serious. It hit me, but there is such cruel irony about his fate with the Techno Union. Echo's whole schtick was that he couldn't stop repeating orders. He wound up captured and was left in a state where he could only relay orders. That's pretty twisted.

Just some observations because of the tonal shift. TBB is so dark when compared to CW. That being said, I'm so grateful for both these shows and I love them.

[marsprincess889]

Not all that glitters is gold

Style vs Substance

Why are Chitras known as "messy"?

Or gossipy? Manipulative? Chaotic? Deceptive?

Are they all bad though?(spoiler: OFC no👁) but why are they famous for being messy and triggering?

Note from me: I've expressed multiple times the chaotic nature of this nakshatra, and figured it would not be out of place to explain why. I think some ppl thought I had only bad things to say about it(even though no nakshatra is good or bad come on guys grow up lmao, i only have had good or bad experiences with their natives, and that's just my experience, others have different stories). And while it's true that I have had not great experiences with Chitra natives, that does not mean that it's inherently bad. I think you guys will get it once you read my point. So, I have put my personal "beef " with them aside for this one lol.

To start with, I want to say that all nakshatras have their place within the wheel and therefore, are all nessecary partz of the whole, just like the zodiac signs and just like every living being.

Nakshatras also are points within the whole journey. They are all unique, and while they relate to others in regards to certain themes, in the end, none are the same.

The chaos of the mundane

The placement of Chitra is very interesting. Each nakshatra opposes two nakshatras. Half it opposes one, the other half opposes the other. Chitra is opposite the last and the first nakshatras: Revati and Ashwini(one ends Pisces, the other begins Aries), marking it as the opposite end of that division point, ending Virgo and beginning Libra, the nakshatra that is arguably the most immersed in the material world. To make that point even stronger, its gunas are Tamas-Tamas-Tamas, the unaware/chaotic guna.

The sign of Virgo traditionally rules the sixth house. They deal with the "mundane" world, the everyday matters, the nitty-gritty, the details. Virgo is also the ruled by Rahu(and Pisces is ruled by Ketu). So, the material world goes hand-in-hand with the themes of rahu: the outward manifestation, anxiety, nervousness, paranoia and deception.

Chitra's symbol is the gem💎 the precious rocks that are sculpted and manipulated to suit the demands of society(6th house) or the agreements with others(7th house). Chitra is Mars(distraction, triggering, energetic output) filtered through Mercury(precision, manipulation, discernment) and Venus(love, beauty, agreements). It also therefore relates to the law of the written word(is that how you say it?), law in its everyday sense, like how defendants need good lawyers to argue and get all the details right, even if they're innocent, because this is not about "the ultimate truth", or who's innocent or wrong, it's about who wins the argument. And that's where the chaotic element comes.

Society has a lot of opinions, doesn't it? And different people have different points of the view. Chitra goes from the 6th house to the 7th house, so its task is to find out the truth in all the drama and bring a harmonious end to the situation, to achieve equilibrium. The trap is getting lost in all the mess yourself and not even noticing how much of your energy it has taken from you. In a way, it's about getting down to business while trying not to "get triggered".

So, that's why natives of this nakshatra have that energy.

I've also heard a lot of very opinionated remarks or argumentative expressions from Chitra natives(sun, moon, asc, ketu too) and if you point it out to them they will deny it immediately lmao. Tamas is the unaware guna.

The thing is that they have a great potential to see the truth in messy things, but often it's biased and therefore still far from the real truth(6th house, Rahu). This triggered energy, when channeled through harmony(libra, active venus) becomes an energy of peace.

The girly girls, fashion.

Ik a lot of this sounds like a teen drama but to me that's genuinely the vibe of this lunar mansion. Feminine/female Chitras also LOVE that kind of aesthetic. If not, they have a thing with aesthetics, and how things appear. They also isually love the colors pink and/or red.

All is not how it seems, and the appearance should be morphed according to substance/truth, because the truth can't be changed. That's the lesson of Chitra. Venus nakshatras love aesthetics in a different way. They moreso have an innate appreciation for all things that they find beautiful and develop a unique "aesthetic" that is specific to them individually, and they're usually not the ones who are concerned with "aesthetics" as most of the society views them, like "Parisian chic" or "punk rock", etc. Chitras tho, directly relate to those, they WANT to fit into certain aesthetics, and the personality of Chitra women(feminines) is often what people probably think of when they hear the words "girly girl". It's bubbly, snappy, moody, coquettish and sometimes ignorant. They, I've noticed, are very particular and opinionated(or they present themselves that way👁, rahu/illusion) about fashion and appearances in general. Again, the lesson is to fit the appearance to the truth of the matter, not the other way around, you can't really do it anyways. The truth always comes out, and it might bring drama, but the confrontation will happen one way or another, that's life. What matters is that it leads to peace and harmony. Until then, the drama is not over.

And so you gotta learn to see the good side of this: an opportunity to really sort things out, and to enter the sign of Libra(equilibtium, partnerships, harmony) with grace.

The sacrifice of the craftsman

We all know the lament of the artist, the eternal search for perfection that always seems out of reach(hi purva ashadhas). I think of Chitra more as the craftsman, because ultimately, its creations are nessecary for the functioning of the material world. In a way, this nakshatra is about learning humbleness and sacrifice as it's also associated with vanity.

The god Hepheastos in Greek mythology is described as a disabled man, and I've seen this archetype of the disabled craftsman many times. I think it's symbolic of the sacrifice for their creation.

I think everyone who has created or wants to create something wants appreciation for their work, and to know that somehow, it's useful. At their best, Chitras are no frivolous tricksters, they are the craftsmen, serving others, providing something beautiful and valuable, but that's not how many of them are or how everyone sees them. When you go to a jewellery store a lot of things might catch your eye, you might even be tempted to splurge your money(energy) on one or two of them, but then, if you are more mindful, come the questions: "are they really worth it?", "am i being conned?", "what if I find this or something better in a cheaper price?", and then you go through all the details of this and that. That's sort of the energy of Chitra.

When Chitras know the value of sacrifice and channel their energy towards harmony, they are on the side of truth and integrity. Otherwise, when you go that jewellery store, be careful to not get conned👁

[utilitycaster]

You have been watching CR so much longer than me, and I'm curious to know your take on TV Show Canon interfering with or replacing Live Play Canon? On the latest 4sd, Sam mentioned that they're sort of in a schrödinger's Canon, where in one instance the show and campaign have two opposing cannons and they get through it by not directly addressing one or the other. The example he gave was Highbearer Vord, who was an old man in campaign 1 and a woman in the show, whom Matt referred to by name or as 'they' in campaign 3.

Personally, I've never been precious about adaptations changing or ommitting things, and I didn't care about the change from the campaign to the show, but for some reason, the show changing the campaign gives me pause. I also personally love the show! Campaign one was my favorite, especially the chroma conclave arc, and I love the tv show just as much, so I don't know why I would be precious about one over the other? I think maybe I'm worried about changes retroactively impacting the campaign because I already saw and loved the campaign as it was and I don't want it to change, whereas the show is currently being created and so any changes or adaptations just feel like their own thing that I get to see unfold.

The change I mentioned is very small and doesn't really impact much, I'm just wondering what your preference would be for this practice in general! I think that the cast mentioned that some changes will be made to the beginning of the Mighty Nein's story for the upcoming show. In a hypithetical future campaign, if someone mentioned the M9, would you prefer it to be in line with the campaign or the tv show, would you prefer if it was vague like Vord, or is it dependent on what the changes are?

For me it would be dependent on the scale of the change and what it is. Honestly, for Vord I don't even find it in conflict in the present campaign (ie, in 843 PD); while obviously Vord's gender is different between the canon of Campaign 1 vs. the Legend of Vox Machina and those are taking place as two versions of the story in the same time, I just assumed that in 843 PD Vord was figuring some shit out re: gender and pronouns. (I'd also add that Vord's description during Campaign 1 itself varied wildly; Matt's changed character pronouns before in the past and I don't know if it's been deliberate or if he forgot but it's not a big deal).

I think if we're talking about scenes that were not visible in the campaign and were expanded upon in TLOVM (eg: getting to see more of the Briarwoods or the Chroma Conclave plotting without Vox Machina present), treating them as canon within Campaign 3 is fine; honestly those probably were canon in Matt's notes anyway, just unseen. Small things that aren't plot critical - changing a character's gender or appearance, for example - are also fine by me.

The issue arises if we get into actual plot conflicts - for example, the party splitting during the Feywild and Westruun arcs in TLOVM vs. Scanlan and Grog being present in the Feywild in canon. In that case, resolving the two is not possible and I don't care for attempts to make it so. I don't generally care for attempts to justify a cast mistake or canon contradiction and make it all lay flat when the answer sometimes is just "this is improv and they forgot", and this feels similar. Like...if Kamaljiori were to show up in Campaign 3, that would be valid, because he doesn't die in Campaign 1 and does in TLOVM, and when we're watching the streaming campaigns we should defer to campaign canon. I don't think it's fair to Campaign 3 to try to play it with an eye to animated adaptation, so any ripples from that can be addressed if an when they come up. But for stuff like Vord's gender, as long as you get the presence and the vibe right, details can be altered. The same, presumably, will be true for mentions of the Mighty Nein if there is an Exandrian-set Campaign 4.

For what it's worth, that is what I expect when the cast mentions changes to the adaptation as well. Like...look, if I'm wrong about this there will be other discussions to be had, but I think the idea that Molly won't die in the Mighty Nein adaptation is a rather desperate and unrealistic one since that sort of derails the entire rest of the campaign both plot-wise and thematically. Fine for AU fanfic, though I'm personally uninterested, but a poor adaptational choice. But changes like splitting the party between the Feywild and Westruun, or Grog becoming weakened, or Vax communing with the Raven Queen a little earlier and at a smaller temple, or Vex facing Saundor alone, all maintain the core vibes and themes while dealing with time constraints and letting Pike be more present. If someone were to ask Vex point-blank "was Scanlan there when you fought the guy who had that cool bow you're carrying" in Campaign 3 I think the answer should be "yes"; but that's not actually important. What's important is that Vex faced a guy who had been consumed by bitterness and grudges for a weapon that she ultimately carved the word for "forgiveness" into as a personal reminder. An adaptation should retain what's actually important to the story, but changing what hangs on the same fundamental fixed skeleton is fine.

[soaps-mohawk]

So everyone has different headcanons for this but most of the time people have similar ones

How old do you think are the 141 men?

Yeah, everyone has their own thoughts on this one, mostly because we don't really have set canon ages for most of them.

I kind of stick to a mix of canon ages, and for the ones we don't know (*cough cough* Ghost *cough cough*) I pick age based on the average age of military members in their current rank.

So Price, I'm fine with his canonical age. Honestly just looking at him, I probably would have put him a bit older (like more Barry's age, but they're really not that far off.) But 38 works just fine for me.

Kyle, I agree with 1993. I would have said late 20s, early 30s just looking at him, so I wasn't that shocked when I saw 1993. Mans needs to drop his skincare routine though cause he's beautiful.

Johnny. Soap. My precious baby boy. Ngl I had a full mental breakdown when I saw he was supposed to be the same age as me 😭 There's no way I'm that old already. But 28/29 seems right to me for him. He's definitely the youngest, though I don't think by much. I think he and Gaz are fairly close in age.

Ghost. Simon Riley. The mystery man. We have no canonical age range for him, so I kind of based my decision on his age on the typical age one reaches the rank of Lieutenant in the British Military and just kind of the overall vibe that Ghost gives. I kind of throw a dart at around age 35 for him. I think he's closer to Price's age than Gaz and Soap, and considering both Barry and Samuel are the same age, that makes it easier to kind of put him as second oldest of the group.

Yeah, that's my opinion on their ages. I know everyone kind of has differing thoughts on it.

[propertyofrjl]

As someone who is currently rewatching all of Aphmau's series and has major brain rot over the Aphverse, i am desperate to find a fic where some of the mystreet people get somehow transported to the MCD universe. BECAUSE IMAGINE THE ANGST POTENTIAL IF MYSTREET!ZANE WAS IN THIS GROUP OMG.

MCD!Garroth having to see what he could have had with his own brother if things were different is breaking my heart.

OH OH OH BUT ALSO

Right imagine this little mystreet group is also when they're teenagers, smol little Zane being transported to a world where pretty much everyone despises him because MCD!Zane is the embodiment of evil.

Like, maybe little Aphmau and Zane get separated from the others and end up in Phoenix drop, they manage to make it to the town square where Molly is coming back from praying to Irene, and she sees Zane, the man who hurt her precious baby and used dark magic on their town. Molly then runs to alert whichever guard she can find (it just so happens that Laurence, Garroth and Dante are all leaving the guard tower for their respective patrols at that moment)

These men run to the town square, fearing the place they are sworn to protect is under attack by one of the most dangerous tyrants of their time, and they come to find not only Zane (who's looking around with a sour look on his face, and albeit a little smaller than Garroth remembers) but also the woman they spend their lives protecting (and two of said party are definitely, totally, not in love with her...)

And when i say they're teenagers, i mean the first season of PDH vibes, so Zane and Aphmau with these squeaky voices and no social skills, and Aphmau has spent most of her time looking around in awe up until that point because OH MY IRENE ZANE IT'S JUST LIKE MY GAME!!!

Laurence moves first, rushing over he knocks Zane to the ground harshly before yanking Aphmau away, to which she screams because this tall, scar covered, very scary looking version of her friend (or maybe crush depending on when in PHD this happens) has picked her up far too easily for her liking and she's worried about Zane.

Then Garroth and Dante move in, and suddenly Zane is being looked down upon by his big brother with such a look of disgust and hatred that has never happened before. Garroth loves Zane. Sure they disagree and fight every now and then, they're brothers, but Zane knows Garroth loves him and would keep him safe, and even though he wouldn't admit it, Zane loves his brother too. But the scary and hate filled man standing above him does not make Zane feel safe, and a flush of fear runs through him, followed by watery eyes and embarrassment because why is he feeling so weak and despised by one of the only men in his life who's provided a steady stream of love (unlike his dad)

And when Zane pulls his shaking hands up in surrender, with this wounded animal look upon his face, MCD!Garroth almost has to double take, because not even as children has he ever seen Zane look at him with such fear, the only man who'd ever brought fear upon Zane's face was their father, and maybe that gives Garroth his own little internal crisis because he's tried so hard to be nothing like dear old dad.

BUT ALSO, LETS PICTURE THIS

The rest of the group (let's say...Laurence, KC and Garroth) show up, and they try to find a way home without the help of the villagers of Phoenix drop, only to be attacked and have Zane kidnapped by people MCD!Zane has royally pissed off. The little group run back to Phoenix drop for help, and all the MCD lot just can't seem to understand why these little versions of themselves/their friends want to help Zane of all people so badly. It takes the Garroths having a full on row over it and Mystreet!Aph breaking down in tears to get people to help (because how can Laurence and Garroth watch a small version of the woman they love sob and not do something to try and help?) and obvi Lord Aphmau was on board the moment they asked and was going to do it alone before her Guards through out their protests and Little Garroth decided to cuss out MCD!Garroth for "abandoning his baby brother" (which is where the fight started)

...

Maybe I should write this myself...

Anyway, that's where my brain has gotten me today.

[eccentricallygothic]

Oh my god the 5 daddy dom CE characters, poor bunny Now now .. can we go on with that and see what each one does for punishments and aftercare? please please.

Okay first, I apologize in advance because I am REALLY not good at these kinds of things (reactions and preferences etc of different characters) but I tried my best according to my thinking. Hope you like it! <3

Warning(s): BDSM and DDLG vibes, bratty!you, polyamorous relationship, brat!tamer Daddies Ari, Lloyd, Jensen, Andy and Ransom, stripping, fluff(?), bunny!reader, different kinds of punishments (mentions only), dacryphilia, behavioral adjustment. Contains mature content. Browse at your own discretion. 18+ 

🩷

Andy: 

Honestly, all five give spankings of varying degrees.

Definitely makes bunny wear her tail during spankings so he can add to the humiliation by moving it around and even teasing her with it. 

Clit spankings.

Cold showers.

Bondage and whipping.

Blindfolding. 

Makes bunny tell him why she's being punished.

Bends her over his knee.

Doesn't stop until she's promising him that she won't do it again with everything she's got. 

Likes to do it with one of her pink bunny baby hair brushes so if the flimsy toy-like object bends or breaks, which they often do, the sight can taunt and remind her every time she passes by her little sparkly dresser that Jensen got for her. 

Honestly, Andy doesn't like punishing his baby bunny too much mainly because he knows she's too weak to take him head on and because he expects her to behave well for him as he knows she's his good little bunny girl.

He spoils her so much after all.

So obedience is the least his precious Bunny can do… right?

So in short he blames Ransom and Jensen whenever she acts out. 

Sometimes she even gets the younger Daddies in trouble with the most authoritative Daddy.

Self degradation to rub her nose in it further. 

Makes her feel sooo fucking dumb for acting out. 

"All that acting out just to end up in your tiny little bunny place again, huh Bunny?"

Cuddles and back rubs as Andy allows Bunny's trembling form to calm down against his chest when he's done.

And he's only done when he's brought his point home.

Soft murmurs of comforting sweet nothings. 

They make her feel so protected that it's only a matter of time before everything from the punishment except for the lesson dissipates. 

Casually buys her anything she points at as part of the aftercare. 

Once bought her a whole orchard because the apples looked to be a pretty shade of red.

Lots of praise.

Takes care of any possible dehydration. 

Soul food after she calms down even though he enjoys to fine down with Bunny.

A nice and calming massage with kisses that tickle her skin due to his thick beard.

She exhaustedly giggles at the feeling.

Takes her of all the bondage burns and cuts.

Uses the special yellow Pikachu bandages that Daddy Ransom bought her.

Sweet and soft kisses all over her face when he takes her in his huge arms and cuddles her in the bed after he's done with all that.

Even softens up on his rules for a while.

Lloyd: 

Honestly, Bunny doesn't play around too much with Daddy Lloyd. 

Because, come on! 

It's that look that he gives her that's anything but scary in the typical sense.

A half grin with slightly narrowing eyes and Bunny knows to respectfully perch herself beside her sadistic Daddy that loves to see her tears with a whimper. 

Spankings start with hand and easily go to his leather belt. 

Bends her over a table for easy access to all her ouchie spots.

Lloyd loves tears so anything to do with them such as frustration (overstimulation, denial and edging) can stretch over days.

What? He's a brat tamer who enjoys putting them back into their little places.

He gets creative honestly.

But Lloyd and the other Daddies are always careful to talk about what they're going to do and make sure she remembers her safewords.

Makes sure to keep checking on her.

Waterboarding while fucking her roughly from behind.

Sometimes, if the other Daddies are away or busy, he will step in for them and give Bunny a combination of his and the other Daddy's punishment style.

Sends a video of her crying and sorry form to the Daddy who is away.

So, in short, Bunny doesn't fuck with him unless she's in a mood. 

Makes Bunny thank him after punishments because he's such a caring Daddy that he wants to make sure his Bunny is always on her best behavior!

Face fucking.

Bunny's poor jaw is so sore by the time he's done.

Sometimes Lloyd will cockwarm her mouth.

There's a reason why she doesn't mess with him.

Because he isn't intimidating like Daddy Andy.

Daddy Lloyd is just plain terrifying.

Sometimes will take away the matching insignia band that he got her.

It's absolutely crushing for poor Bunny.

Okay, let's be real here.

He's not too good at aftercare.

And although Lloyd is usually a confident and proud man, when he sees how good the other Daddies are he wants to get better.

Never had to and didn't use to give aftercare before Bunny. 

So Daddy Lloyd basically learns from the other Daddies.

Cuddles Bunny in the bath as they talk about the punishment and what lead to it. 

Allows her cuddle up to her favourite stuffies in his bed although usually he demands that all attention be given to him.

Also buys her expensive as fuck stuff.

Lots of sweets. 

That was a trick he figured out on his own.

Ice cream for her sore mouth is a must.

Best scalp scratches.

But Lloyd doesn't shy away from punishing her again if she starts getting too out of her place.

He can't help himself.

Ari: 

His huge and calloused hand alone is enough to make poor Bunny cry.

He's such a deception that it's almost a cruel joke on the foolish girl. 

Because Ari isn't necessarily a brooding and mysterious vibes Daddy like Andy.

Or a scary and intimidating one like Lloyd.

But man has twice their strength all packed up in one huge body of 6'5 that towers over everyone in the house. 

He's quite lenient for his category. 

But once Bunny manages to get in trouble with him…

Ari is more of a typical Daddy as opposed to the other older two who are lowkey Daddy-Doms.

Makes her straddle one of his thicc thighs and bend over so she's tucked under his arm as he spanks her ass raw. 

Man is a giant. 

Same goes for his cock.

Ari is not necessarily a sadist, unlike Lloyd, but…

Painal with his fat cock up Bunny's poor spanked ass with little lubrication is Ari's favourite way to bring things to a satisfying end. 

She isn't allowed to touch him.

Ties her hands up if she does.

"Hmmm. Let's ask the other Daddies if you seem sorry, Bunny."

Of course, since discipline is so important to Andy and Lloyd is his sadist self, they're the hardest to convince while Ari abuses her tiny pucker and teases her desperate Bunny pussy. 

Plugs it with a thick plug when he's done.

"You better not let a drop spill, Bunny."

He's not a technology man.

So her pretty little expensive gadgets that all her Daddies get her from all over the world are what he confiscates.

Makes Bunny do all the chores and outdoor activities that she dislikes because she's so used to being a spoiled little bunny princess. 

Puts her favourite movie or show on after a warm bubble bath. 

Dresses her in one of his huge soft shirts.

Juice is a must after punishments with Ari. 

Lets Bunny pig out however much she wants. 

Takes her on a nice long drive in his truck if she wants.

Definitely talks it out with her later.

His huge chest is her bed for an indefinite period of time as her ass is too sore for anything. 

If Bunny feels comfortable, he even carefully holds her above the toilet seat so her sore cheeks don't have to touch it.

Carries her everywhere.

Buys her a plushie everytime as praise. 

Reassurance.

Forehead kisses.

Ransom: 

Now Ransom is one of the two softer Daddies.

But he's similar to Ari in terms of being unpredictable.

When he wants to put his foot down, Bunny can end up the most sorry girl in the whole town.

Ransom can get pretty cruel. 

Definitely has sadistic tendencies.

Dangles her cute stuffies or her glittery crayons that she always gets with Daddy Jensen in front of her face. 

And then proceeds to tear the toys open or snaps the crayons in half before making Bunny thank him as she kneels in front of him on her poor spanked ass. 

With Ransom, the spanking methods can vary depending on how disappointed he is because it takes a lot to pull a punishment out of him. 

But once he snaps...

He has this very special little thing that he does that Bunny hates.

Cockwarming after rough p-in-v.

The girl whines from how sensitive she is each time he shifts his body weight or a vein in his cock pulsates.

"Well, too bad you deserve it, huh Bunny?"

Her walls are so worked up and overstimulated. 

But Ransom calmly goes about reading a book or watching TV as he holds her form tight against his chest by wrapping one of his strong arms around her body.

Makes sure Bunny cannot walk by the time he's done.

Carries her bridal style.

Ransom prefers to take a warm shower together where he caresses and worships every part of her body with her back against his chest.

So much praise and sweet nothings in her ear from behind. 

Bunny feels like the most loved and protected little girl by the time he's done.

Definitely makes up for whatever plushies or crayons that got harmed. 

Always has snacks ready for her to enjoy as they just relax under the warm blankets after the shower, naked bodies tangled. 

Lets her choose what movie to watch or how to spend the rest of the day.

Head pats. 

Jensen: 

Sees Bunny as a little Princess that must be protected and spoiled rotten so he's the most lenient Daddy. 

Hates to punish her and make her cry just as much as she hates it. 

Spankies are milder as compared to the others. 

Sometimes he makes her wear nappies as punishment which humiliates her so much. 

"If you're acting like such a baby then you should be treated like one, huh Bunny?" 

Constantly pokes it and asks questions about it.

Encourages the other Daddies to do the same.

Then she has to tell them why. 

Jensen is definitely the most ddlg Daddy vibes.

Corner time to let Bunny think about her actions. 

Makes her write so many lines that she swears to herself that she will never misbehave again everytime. 

Being the tech expert that he is, Jensen doesn't take her gadgets away. 

He takes the whole damn internet away so even sneaking someone else's phone or iPad would be basically useless. 

Attention deprivation.

It brings her to tears when sweet Daddy Jensen refuses to acknowledge her existence. 

Bunny has to do a little apology presentation on her pink little dice at the end in front of all Daddies with nothing but a Bunny tail on where she reflects on her mistakes and apologizes for them in a responsible way. 

But it gets so hard to do that when Daddy Jensen keeps messing with the bullet vibrator inside her.

And at the end, Bunny is just a confused little weepy baby since Jensen and the other Daddies fluster her already embarrassed form by asking all kinds of questions about the points and words in her apology. 

In the end she helplessly admits that she's just a dumb little Bunny who cannot do anything right without her Daddies.

Which is basically her learning her place. 

Lets Bunny hide in his chest for as long as she needs, rocking them back and forth as she calms down.

Even if the punishment was in front of the other Daddies, the after care is more private because Bunny is too sensitive for too much attention all at once sometimes. 

Absolutely pampers her.

Bathes or showers can vary according to what Bunny wants.

Jensen is a pleasure Daddy and he loves to worship and spoil Bunny.

Honestly, if only she behaves right, Bunny can get him to do or allow her to do anything at all.

Lots of praise shopping after she's been safely put into a cute outfit or onesie.

A whole stuffie fort awaits them on his bed when she exits the bathroom after Jensen is done cleaning her up.

Puts on cartoons.

Spoons her as she holds onto her teddy of choice.

Chocolates and juice.

The next few days are full of constant reassurance, embraces and praise. 

Carries her around the house and basically anywhere on his back.

Everything has to be served to his Bunny in her Princess cutlery and cups.

Whatever she asks for, it's hers. 

🩷

[rocksibblingsau]

I don't know if you already have something laid out for that dynamic, but I feel that country Branch and Clay would either bond really easily (after the whole "you were in the tree that whole time?!" thing gets resolved" or bicker at almost every opportunity

Branch already reads a lot and with the country trolls affinity for sadness and hard times, Clay has the one the quickness path to Branch's heart out of all the brothers. Also with Clay's leadership role and serious vibes, he would probably habe a lot of respect and many different topics to talk with Branch about.

But on the other hand, their similarities could easily make them hate each other. Clay seeing Branch's leadership role as a reflection of Jd and not of himself is one of them, but also jealousy over how respected he and his boundaries are. And this Branch would shut down the babying way easier than canon, he probably had to prove himself to many country trolls and would not let himself be disrespected without a serious fight

I actually do see Clay and somewhat Bruce seeing Branch as a mini-JD initially when they visit his home. They don't get to see his dynamic during the rescue, but once they get back to Lonesome Flats they see how Branch takes charge and orders people around and all they can see is John Dory.

Clay can't recognize that Branch is a leader like him rather than John because Branch doesn't have his own Viva. I imagine Clay and Viva tag team issues in an almost 'stern parent/fun parent' dynamic. Viva softens any blows by trying to point out the bright side or explain why Mr. Clay's idea is gonna be fun/great.

Country Trolls don't need that dynamic. If Branch says have those silos filled by the end of the day, they don't stop and ask why. They can, and Branch would be happy to answer, but they know already that Branch has good reasons.

I imagine in that scenario Bruce might try to gentle parent. "Don't you think that's a strict deadline? As long as they get filled, what does it matter if it's today or tomorrow?" Clay is also chastising Branch on overworking people and being too demanding.

Branch would look at them and raise an eyebrow, then call someone over.

"Ambrosia, could you tell me what you told me this mornin'?" "Sure thing. I said make sure all the grain is up by tomorrow unless you're fine with it bein' washed away. There's a storm headin' in and anything not in the silos is as good as gone."

If Branch says to do something, he has a reason. He's happy to explain his reasoning to you, but in the Country tribe, there's no point wasting time chit-chatting. They trust Branch, so they don't see any point wasting precious breath debating it.

It may look like Branch is giving orders, but he's not really in charge of anything formally like Delta Dawn is. They're suggestions, really. Advice from an expert plugged into nature and the community. They might sound like orders, especially given that everyone goes ahead and does what he says, but no one really has to listen to him. They respect Branch Dawn, and not just because he's Delta's kin.

[hungnitan]

Penacony TB 2.1 Impression

Contains heavy spoiler and mostly a rant so don't read it if you still not finish the story (lol)

Before unto the stories, I must say I kinda get the reasons why hoyo put Acheron in first banner and Aventurine in second half after read TB 2.1. For Acheron, I think her identity as emenator nihility is the key lore to expose before 2.1 began so there's need to expose it at trailer (despite her reasoning coming to Penacony still unknown somehow lol). While for Aventurine, this is kinda delulu on my side but there's possibility we might know the things happened to him after 2.1 from his daily message.

Onto stories, I only say one line... IT'S VERY HONKAI VIBE ! Telling one person stories from they born into the one we know now with angsty vibe of course lol. You know, the things I scare when hoyo release Acheron trailer and myriad celestial is how Aventurine past can beat that honkai queen and (un)fortunately I was wrong (lol)

IT'S FULL BLOW OF AVENTURINE DARK PAST and yeah hoyo score a full mark with it !

For composition I think it's 80% Aventurine PoV and 20% others which is unsuprisingly since I'm pretty sure he will not appear again for future Penacony chapter but what I'm suprise is so far Astral Express basically can't do anything much in Penacony so yeah Xianzhou Luofu TB back again.

Despite that, I'm very happy with TB 2.1 like this is what Honkai story should do ! Up until now, I always thought HSR still not show their full equipment and pretty weak with their story, Tingyun only snapping some head isn't near those previous Honkai heels you know (lol).

I'm going to talk a long rant on 80% since hoyo decided to love him with his so well written stories and I love him too (XD)

The things with Aventurine and Ratio, I guess this what we would called "same mind don't need talk much". They're bickering so well, even acted betray each others without any communication and smooth enough to fool Sunday

But sorry I'm not getting fool (I know they're soulmate lol), the reason is I found one hole in Sunday Ratio convo here

Ratio saying about cornerstone is so precious to ten stonehearts but the box contain can be opened by other than them ? If that's true, I can't believe someone like Aventurine would risk someone like that participate in his grand scheme without reasons... plus Ratio doesn't strike me as someone who sells his teammate or what he called him lol no matter how iritatting he is especially only for pursuing knowledge, since it sounds so idiocy.

Suprising fact, he even try kill himself few times at dreamscape ! Like is that something you can try out of fun even If knowing you can't die ? Well yeah, in first place he doesn't mind to die anytime but doing it yourself and passive talk are two different things you know...

two question I thought Aventurine never answer directly which is pretty related. First of all, different than Sunday which I think he's type of "I will kill everyone and then myself if they hurt my sister" but he's already at own limit to think for his own survival + he doesn't have anyone to get revenge for. Elation still have some excitement when saw someone in despair but I don't think Aventurine (at that time) could feels same, well we don't know things after 2.1 since his past chains severed by Acheron, maybe he will open a new leaf (I hope so, let him live happily ever after with Ratio or Elation or even Trailblazing with us sounds good too lol)

It stabilize the fact that Aventurine and Ratio are good friends despite their talk, voiceline, and teammate voiceline at least from Ratio side which is the vital point Aventurine still alive as now. I really skeptic on his dead or alive status at 2.1 livestream, well mostly I can't believe any Shaoji said that time (plus the fact Gallagher is just a normal bartender lol)

TB 2.1 conclude with opening a new terrain with dreamscape's secrets, the Family and Watchmaker aren't same side, IPC will added another ten stonehearts member to game, a mysterious voice will join the fray. Penacony story so far so good, even their newest branch stories execute nicely but I don't have any excitement anymore now knowing Aventurine not gonna show up anymore (XD).

Now with Aventurine closed his screentime, I think Acheron (her past and purpose coming to Penacony still not reveal much), Firefly Sam (SH motive and she need to pursuading TB), Jade and/or Topaz (replacing Aventurine role) will play a bigger parts for future version

Put aside that, my 220 pull still on waiting for Aven banner ! I kinda had bad feelings about his banner pull, even my relics planar farming still not done even after I started doing it from BlackSwan banner...

[musicfeedsmysoul12]

Watching the Show Fanfic FMAB

@anastasian-dreamer suggested writing a big rambling post about the FMAB watches the future Au to get it off my chest and for me to offer people to send asks. You want a scene/me to explain how i’d handle something? Send it it!

 So how would this go?

First the background: 

First: Edward is a trans man. He's known from childhood. We dont have transphobia in Amestris or in this world. Envy is genderfluid and Father is literal shadows in a human form. Gender makes zero sense to them and they don't allow bigotry they'd be affected by.

 We’re going to give them testosterone but Ed isn't on it because 1) he doesn't want to take it while Al is in the armour (and that is a frequent discussion) and 2) he's not sure if he wants to. He's a fairly androgynous person and he is small chested. He’s one of the lucky assholes who have very light periods (Winry hates him for it) and its alright. He doesn't want to take it also because a part of him wants kids and he’s nervous it will lower his chances. He also knows adoption is still there so he is a bit torn. I honestly just want to explore this concept.

Second: this is also a soulmate AU. I'm thinking there are multiple types of soulmates: paternal/child, platonic, romantic and enemies. 

 Now, you're born with the paternal ones (and the parent gets their when the child is born) but the others happen later. You are five when you get your platonic and romantic; then you’re ten when you get the enemy one.

 Ed and Al are both born with a red salamander on their shoulders and the flamel Izumi has on her chest. I've read a few ‘your own mark is on your chest’ so we’re going with that. These marks tend to be something that can define you. Edward has the alchemy sign for human on his chest and Al has the helmet of his armour. 

 Hohenheim tries not to let it play on his mind. 

When they turn five, Edward gets a sword and the ouroboros on his arm, while Al gets a kunai. 

 The boys both get a silver gear which is Winry for platonic to. (how can they tell? Vibes. Literal vibes)

 When they're ten, Ed is so confused why they get more ouroboros marks. But he's busy with the transmutation. So big deal. We all know how that ends.

 But Ed also is surprised when he gets a mark when he’s eleven.

( “It kind of looks like the head of a long-haired dog?” 

 “It does. Weird.”)

Ling gets the sign for human and the ouroboros. As well he gains a silver blade for a friend (Lan Fan), the child mark of a long haired dog, and the enemy tattoos of ouroboros along with some family. (he also gains the panda friend mark of the heiress to the Chang family) 

 Greed has a sword and the sign for human, along with markings for all his Chimera buddies and the long haired dog for a child. 

Three: Roy starts off being very nervous about the kids. He sees Al and knows its his soul son. He would keep it quiet if he didn't know that his soulmate Maes would spill the beans. He tells the boys. Edward is so angry that of course it's his fuck up that defines his brother. 

 Roy and Ed keep the antagonism but it’s just their thing. They're like that. Al gets to have a cat that stays with Roy. 

 Also: three way bonds like Roy, Hughes and Gracia aren't uncommon. However due to the need for alchemists in the East Roy is based there. He has a house and makes trips bi weekly to see his soulmates. They also make trips bi weekly so they basically see each other each week.

Four: Various countries have different views on Soulmateds. Amestris believes that while there is a bond its a choice in the end. You don’t need to marry/befriend/whatever your bond is. While about 90% of the time it does happen, there's then 10% everyone knows. 

 Xing fully believes in them and soulmarks are a great honour. There's been a few times clans will join together as an heir will find their partner in another, making an iron clad bond. Soul children are precious and enemies are the utmost awfulness. 

Five: I’m tossing in a few OCs. One is named Amelia Cross. My original story for her is she is the brother’s elder sister from Hohenheim having a one night stand years ago. Theres a whole plot. But for here she's simply the Alchemist that helped make the soldiers into human chimeras before she quit the military. (and was let go because she did human transmutation)

 The other is Amelia’s soul daughter Elaine who is a chimera herself and Ishvalan. Its a whole thing. 

Lets go to the start.

 Now: I think this story would start right after Tucker makes Nina into a Chimera but before the boys see her. 

 And I kinda want to keep to my theme of ‘ah yes everyone sees it’ cause I can. How does this happen? Alchemy. A bunch of stones (some dropped by Hohenheim, some in the ground from Father) bonded together. An alchemist in the region was doing human transmutation to bring back their wife, the stones hijacked it (the alchemist lost their heart) and Truth went: you know why not. (does it make sense? No but I'm keeping it)

 So everyone in the world is watching now. And we don't start with the brothers.

 We start with Slave 23, speaking to the dwarf in the flask. We follow him as he walks to Xing, as he walks the world. We follow him to Trisha and the boys. We see him put pieces together and realize what happened to Xerxes will happen again. Of course we don't actually know YET. As far as anyone can tell he found signs of the Dwarf and went hunting.

 There's also the drama of Ling seeing the marks on Ed and Mei also seeing hers on Al. And like every other reaction to. (the Homunculi are fucking baffled that this kid somehow got a mark for one of them. Hohenheim is freaking out)

 We watch as he leaves. Then we cut to the boys fighting the Freezing Alchemist. 

Now 2003 FMA is really good at the build up so i'll probably borrow from them but I like the freezer beginning. So that's going on. And of course we learn Roy is the parental soulmate, and its all cute…

 And then we learn of the Taboo.

 I 100% think Bradley makes a bullshit claim he knew and decided since a CHILD was willing to join the military and all their trauma he let it slide. Its on the radio.

 Its all ‘aww poor little meow meows’ kind of stuff. Ed and Al hate it, go to Tucker and FUCK NINA?

 Course since Ed’s child mark is shown he claims its destiny. Ed kicks his ass, and then Nina gets to go to grandpa Roy’s place while Amelia gets contacted by one of the soldiers who is a chimera. 

 Which side note: when that happens on screen Ling is busy discussing how to murder Tucker with Lan Fan and Fu (and his clan cause that is their heir’s daughter) while Greed and the others are heading to kick some ass. 

But after the freezing alchemist we get more flashbacks to the boys in the first few years of military, and then so on.

Themes of the story: 

 -A theme there is the discussion of family. I really want the idea of family to play a huge part in this because Al and Ed’s story revolves around their relationship. So a lot of focus is on this. But also I would explore rejecting family. 

 Greed rejects his ‘siblings’. The boys reject Hohenheim because he isn't a bad person but he sure is a bad father (and yes he is. I saw one post defending it but lets be real, abandoning your family is abandoning them no matter what.) Ling rejects some of his siblings. 

 Family is important but it’s family of choice that matters. You can choose your family and many choose their blood family but they also reject it.

 -Romance is the next theme, and exploring what its like to have romantic soulmates. Like I really want some drama since Edward has been raised knowing he doesn't need to be with his romantics mixed with Greed ‘its all mine’ and Ling ‘destiny bound us’. Like they choose to be together of course but its a thing. 

 We have the themes of FMA though included.

Other notes:

 -I do know Ed keeps alchemy and both his automail parts. Not sure how but he does.

 -Mei throws herself into finding out how to free her soulmate. 

 -Mei and Xao Mei both arrive with Ling due to the alliance and that they are platonics.

 -I want to keep Ling being possessed but also I think Father actually is weirdly interested in the soul bond? I think his attempts at being perfect isn't just about like being a god but also being better then humans. And here is a being he's made having a soulmate. Two in fact. And a soul child! He's very invested. So he somehow has it that they can share the bond like they do in canon? I dunno. I'd need to work on it. 

 -Amelia is killed by Scar and it sparks a large subplot because her romantic is actually Kimblee. She visits him every year on his birthday and he's allowed out to her funeral where Elaine is. Amelia and Elaine had a falling out after some stuff but Elaine is pretty messed up. Elaine is also Kimblee’s soul child. Also Elaine is Winry’s romantic soulmate. Its a mess. 

 -I kinda think Ling having Ed as his soulmate puts him right at the top for heirs because ‘ah son of the Sage’ kind of thing mixed in with ‘the other soulmate is immortal’

 -Mrs. Bradley is actually in the know because Pride has her mark as a friend and Wrath couldn't lie to her. They never told Father until after the reveal of Greed’s soulmates but yeah she got told early on. She is subtly talking them away from the plans but it's slow going. (I kinda would want to set up Wrath in Greed’s place as a sacrifice)