#there's definitely no other explanation for it

[dadsbongos]

hi (⁠ ⁠◜⁠‿⁠◝⁠ ⁠)⁠♡ i was wondering if it's okay to be a little bit feral about viktor here.,..,., craving him. Carnally

let’s get feral about viktor…  general thots here and then a stupid blurb below the cut

would definitely be into face-sitting: pleasing his partner while laying back. hands free to roam and grope and you get to control the pace. you could grind on his nose and throw your head back and he just gets to listen as you squeal.

also would look so so so good covered in hickies….. purplish love bites decorating his sharp collarbones.. he’d probably let you get away with sucking some up his neck since he’s locked in the lab all day anyway

hngnnnggg he’s gotta be PENT up too. he’s handsome and he knows it, but he went from a studying assistant to a full scientist behind hextech so he pretty much capped himself on sex. so when he gets into it he is. INTO it. so needy and whiny and overstimulates himself to keep fucking you just so he doesn’t have to stop

i want him lol… not laughing

~~ 530 words

his careful and thoughtful inflection, each word he says wrought so particularly that no matter how big the words he uses are -you understand each one perfectly with how he uses it.

which is why you take so much pleasure in finding him tongue-tied next to you. pale cheeks flushing and eyes, so ragged with knowledge, wide chock full of curiosity. you’re sure he hasn’t gotten much attention -- no amount of beauty or charming accent can save a scientist from his own devotion.

he got dragged out to an exhibition gala by jayce and he’s been slick against the wall since arriving. no drink or plate in hand, he simply leans there in a bored silence. which is when the last person he wants to see arrives: you, the new assistant.

you spare no time before saddling up beside him with two champagne flutes. one has a dewy smear of gloss along the rim while you extend the other.

“any commitments tomorrow? or can i finally see the famed hextech let loose?”

viktor eyes the bubbles, dragging his gaze up to your face and halting there for an excruciating second before leaning to grab the glass.

“i was just thinking of leaving,” he admits, “these public showings are not my idea.”

“go figure. i think everyone here’s gathered that.”

“jayce can handle any questions of the evening…” viktor sighs, frowning down at the champagne, “sad that you wasted your time getting me the glass.”

“you know, i do wonder how many girls out in town dream about jayce. he’s the face -a pretty face- for hextech,” viktor raises a brow at you prodding for explanation, “i just don’t understand how they can overlook the brains.”

viktor jumps, gaze startling down to his feet, a stiff response already spilling, “jayce is half the brain, and so am i.”

“then i guess i just need to tell you that i think you’re cute.”

a flurry of excuses storms behind his eyes before he catches his breath, shoulders drooping as he exhales and realizes: he doesn’t have to find an excuse. he doesn’t have to refuse you at all. 

he’s not working tonight. you’re not working. he can’t remember the last time he got to act like a normal man with normal desires rather than fulfilling some vague purpose. an idyllic achievement.

he could just be a man tonight.

so he clinks his glass against yours with a soft smile, “then i’m assuming you’re not busy tomorrow, either?”

“i am not,” you beam, sliding closer toward him.

and good thing; both of you having the next day off means you can pull viktor into your apartment, and then your bed. he lets you guide the night, watching with uncharacteristic amazement as you strip -- he looks so mesmerized his hands clench, itching to scale up your bare sides.

you swing a leg over him when he’s sat against your headboard, “you okay, vik?” he tilts his head only for you to cup his cheeks and keep his head straight, “you’re all flushed.”

“your forwardness,” he blinks up at you, heart thrumming between his ribs, “it scares me.”

“oh?”

“i’ve never been more aroused.”

“oh…”

… in another world i will write a viktor fic with this same premise… it is so. Interesting to me.

[brazenautomaton]

On the one hand, you claim that because they are staunchly right wing and hate the left wing, therefore, they can't have empowered the woke.

On the other hand, in observable reality, they rescinded Executive Order 13950 the moment they had the ability to do so, and there was nothing objectionable in EO 13950 for anyone who wasn't an abusive woke race-cultist. You can read the EO in its entirety, there is absolutely nothing about banning history education, nothing about being pro-racism, it only bans a specific set of behaviors that are clearly articulated and absolutely indefensible.

This is far from the only example, it's just the one where there is absolutely no room to bullshit and shift definitions and claim it doesn't count. There is nobody else to blame for rescinding EO 13950, there is no legitimate purpose for rescinding EO 13950, and there is no other explanation for rescinding EO 13950. If they never sheltered the woke, if they never ran cover for the woke, then not rescinding an executive order that banned a clearly defined and absolutely indefensible set of behaviors should have been the easiest thing in the world. But they rescinded it as soon as Biden took office, almost like it was a very high priority for them.

Many Democratic elites appear to have landed on a familiar tactic: blaming everyone’s favorite scapegoat, Big Woke. Everywhere you look, you’ll see someone—often, but not always, on CNN—railing against the far-left extremists that supposedly held the party’s mainstream faction in its vise-like grip in 2024. There’s just one problem with this: the campaign these insiders are describing bears virtually no resemblance to the actual campaign we all just suffered through. They have simply invented an alternate universe out of thin air.

[...]

The ugly truth for these people is that Kamala Harris ran as right-wing a campaign as any Democrat in living memory. She downplayed discussions of her race and gender. She bent over backward to welcome billionaires, corporate titans, and Republicans into the fold. She told Black men that one of her priorities for them was…crypto. She made her past as a prosecutor a cornerstone of her pitch. She bragged about owning a Glock and joked that she would shoot people who broke into her house. She stuffed the Democratic National Convention to the gills with cops and Border Patrol agents while crushing even the tiniest dissent over her support for the genocide in Gaza. She promised the most “lethal” military in the world. She was seemingly joined at the hip with Liz Cheney for weeks. She even praised Dick Cheney! It’s hard to think of what more she could have done to satisfy the people clamoring for her to pander to conservatives.

11 November 2024

[wonderjanga]

I’m Never Going Back to That Farm

Clark was talking to Marvel and he realized the man didn’t have anyone to celebrate Christmas with. So, he invited him over. Cause why not? Might as well spread some Christmas spirit. What he didn’t expect was…

Ma Kent: “Clark, your home!” *hugs her son*

Supes: “It’s good to see you too Ma

Ma Kent: “Oh, and who is your little friend-” *looks over to Marvel before doing a double take* “C.C.?”

Marvel: “Huh?”

Ma Kent: “Oh my God, C.C. is that really you?” *turns around to call Pa Kent* “Honey! Come here and look who Clark brought over!”

Supes and Marvel: *share a look*

Pa Kent: “What’s wrong Martha?” *comes from the kitchen* “Charley!? Is that really is you?” *rubs his eyes and looks again* “God, we thought you died in the plane crash! Also, Jesus, you’ve grown 2 feet.”

Supes: “Your name is Charley?” *looks over to Marvel*

Ma Kent: “Oh no sweetie, it’s Clarence, but this guy thought the name was too boring. So we either called him Charley or C.C.”

Marvel: “Haha… Yeah.” *oozing awkwardness*

Supes: *staring with a hint of betrayal*

As for why Clark felt betrayed? Well, his parents knew about Marvel’s entire secret identity before he even did! But, that betrayal was quickly forgotten when his Ma and Pa decided to go down memory lane and pull out a box Clark had never seen before.

Supes: “What’s all this?”

Ma Kent: “Just some old keepsakes your father and I look back on every now and then.”

Pa Kent: *pulls out a photo* “Oh I remember this one. One of my biggest races.” *shows a photo of Ma and Pa Kent, and C.C. and Marilyn all smiling at the camera while Pa Kent is holding a second place trophy*

Supes: “Are you wearing a leather jacket here? Also who’s that?” *points to Marilyn*

Marvel: “That’s my uh…” *looks to the Ma and Pa Kent before looking back to Clark* “My wife?”

Supes: “Wife?!”

Ma Kent: *ignores him* “Speaking of her, where is Marilyn? Did she not come along? Are you two still married?”

Marvel: *also ignores him* “Oh uhm… She didn’t survive the crash.” *still super awkward*

*silence*

Ma Kent: “Oh Charles… I’m so sorry.”

Pa Kent: “And the kids?”

Supes: “Kids?!”

Marvel: *continues ignoring him* “They’re doing good. Mary and Billy are twelve now.”

Ma Kent: “Oh that’s just wonderful. Say, Clark, isn’t Jon the same age as Charley’s kids?”

Supes: “He’s a year younger.”

Pa Kent: *puts the photo of the four of them back into the box* “You two should set up a little playdate.”

Marvel: “Maybe.” *awkward smile*

So now Clark is completely floored. This man that he’s known for nearly 5 years has had a wife who died??? Not only that, but he has two whole children??? Also Cap knew his parents when they were younger??? He’s definitely going to ask more about that playdate though. Jon should have more superpowered friends his age.

Later during dinner…

Pa Kent: “You know, Charley it surprises me how much you haven’t changed.”

Marvel: “Huh…? Whatdya mean?” *shoveling food in his mouth because it delicious*

Ma Kent: “Well, for starters, you look the exact same.” *little laugh as she puts more food on Marvel’s plate*

Pa Kent: “And when you’re not being super awkward, your personality hasn’t changed all that much either.”

Marvel: “You’ve noticed me being awkward?”

Supes: “It’d be kind of hard not to notice, Cap.”

Billy found out more about his parents from this one Christmas alone than he had in his entire life up until now. That is why he will not be coming back to this farm ever again. He’ll send Christmas cards, he might even send a gift or two, but never again. He doesn’t want these two to realize their friend is actually dead. They’re sweet little old people who don’t deserve that. But other than all that, Billy is super happy to find out he and his dad are very similar in personality. It makes him feel closer to the man.

Also, I went on Wikipedia to learn more about the Kent’s and apparently Pa Kent was a race car driver so in case anybody was confused about the race thing, there’s your explanation.

Also, also, as for how the Batsons and the Kents knew each other? Let’s say that Marilyn grew up in Smallville and met Martha. Then Marilyn moved away to Fawcett, but the two still kept in touch. Then both of the women met their respective husbands and they all got together to be a nice little friend group. And then, you know, the Batsons died.

Also, also, also, after this whole thing, Clark started calling Billy Charley or C.C. which made Billy violently flinch when it first happened. After a while though, he grew used to it because he’d rather be called Charley and have someone think he’s C.C. Batson instead of someone thinking he’s Billy.

Also, also, also, also, (I’m sorry I can’t help but add more) when Clark thought no one was looking, he whipped out his phone and took several pictures of the photo of the Kents and Batsons. Or more accurately, he took photos of the part of the picture with C.C. in a leather jacket. Marvel just didn’t seem like the type so he wanted recorded evidence so he could be sure he wasn’t crazy.

Alright I’m done now. Super duper early Christian post, yay!

[swappermanent]

e-Swap (Part 2)

Read Part 1 by @swapery here.

Liam's POV:

It’s wild to look back on it now. Four years ago, I was just a cocky kid scrolling through Tumblr, indulging in bodyswap roleplays. I mean, it’s hot, right? The idea of becoming someone else, walking in their skin, living their life—it’s escapism at its best.

To be honest, though? What really turned me on the most was the idea of someone else wanting to take over my life. And this guy—Kristoph—he wanted to step into my shoes, take over everything about me, and, I don’t know… maybe live my life better than I could. That hit me somewhere deep.

Sure, I found Kristoph hot. Objectively speaking, he was attractive. He had this kind of rugged, manly charm—average height, short curly brown hair, a beard that was thick but didn’t quite fill in everywhere. In gay terms, he’d be an “otter,” though not the polished, Instagram-perfect kind. Still, there was something about him, something raw and real.

But what I found so hot wasn’t necessarily his looks. It was the roleplay itself. The back-and-forth, the fantasy of letting someone else become me—it was intoxicating. So I flirted with him, told him how hot he was and how much I wanted to be him too. It egged him on, made him want me even more. And that was harmless, right? That’s what roleplaying is for. It’s not real life. Nobody actually thinks they’re going to wake up in someone else’s body.

And who knows? If it hadn’t been for what happened next, I probably would’ve gotten bored after a few days and moved on. I’ve done it before. I’m a bit… boy-obsessive. A bit of a heartbreaker, if I’m being honest. Cute guys came and went. I was always onto the next. And, let’s be real, it usually worked for me because, well, I was even cuter.

But that’s not what happened.

---

I was completely thrown when I woke up one morning in Kristoph’s body. Like, how the fuck was that even possible? I stared at myself—well, at him—in the mirror, touching the unfamiliar beard, the broader shoulders, the chest that didn’t feel like mine. It didn’t make any sense.

The first thing I did was try to contact myself. I called my phone—my phone, which was now across the world in Australia, in Kristoph’s hands. No answer. I sent messages on Tumblr, over and over, desperate to get a reply, but it was like shouting into the void.

Confusion quickly turned to anger. As the hours dragged on, I couldn’t shake the growing suspicion that he must’ve done this to us somehow. He must’ve found a way. What other explanation could there be?

How could he do this to me? To us? Without even asking? Without telling me it was real?

Well… okay. He had asked, technically. And I had consented, in a joking way. But I thought it was all pretend. A game. Roleplay. Something to get off on—not… this.

Now I was out of moves. Totally stuck. Kristoph lived in England—or I guess I did now—and I lived in Australia. Or, well, he did. Either way, it wasn’t like I could just hop on a plane and go confront him. What was I even supposed to say? “Hey, give me my body back”? Impossible.

---

As I began to accept the fact that I was stuck in Kristoph’s body, resentment crept in. I hated how I looked. I mean, I know I’d flirted with him online—played it up, told him how hot I thought he was—but I didn’t actually want to be him. Not for real.

Honestly, I couldn’t stand his beard. It was scruffy, patchy, and felt like a chore to maintain. And in person? He was so much shorter than I’d imagined. That one photo he’d sent me had totally oversold him. His muscles were fine, I guess, but not as impressive as I’d hoped. Definitely felt like I’d been catfished.

And the worst part? He had no hot romantic prospects at all. No dates, no flirty DMs, no wild social life. The guy was a total dud. Meanwhile, I was stuck in his body while he got the better end of the deal.

It didn’t take long for me to start seeing his posts online. There he was, shirtless and flaunting my old twinky body for the world to see. He was out everywhere—hanging with my friends, partying, meeting people I didn’t even recognize. Hot, sexy guys who I could only assume were his latest hookups or maybe even a boyfriend.

At first, it made me furious. How could he be so bold, living my life like that? But slowly—bit by bit—I found myself getting turned on by those posts. Watching him, in my body, owning the life I’d built, looking amazing in photos, thriving without me… it did something to me.

He still wouldn’t reply to my texts, but it’s not like he’d blocked me on social media either. If anything, it felt like he wanted me to see it all. To flaunt it. After all, he’d been into bodyswap fantasies too—he probably loved the idea of me watching him live my life better than I ever could.

And damn, was he doing a good job. I started thinking about how well he was pulling it off. He didn’t need my help or guidance; he didn’t need anything from me at all. He’d just stepped into my shoes and thrived.

I couldn’t help it after a while—it turned me on. Seeing him so confident, so free, so successful in my life was like watching my biggest fantasy unfold before my eyes. It was frustrating. It was infuriating.

And it was so fucking sexy.

---

Eventually, I turned my focus to fixing up my new body, accepting that this situation was probably permanent. There wasn’t much else I could do.

At first, I tried to go back to my old look—the twinky vibe I’d always rocked. It felt safe, familiar. I shaved the beard and acted a bit more submissive, like I used to. But the more I leaned into it, the more wrong it felt.

It was almost like this body was resisting me, like it was pushing me to be something else. Something… jockier. Stronger. It was weird, but I couldn’t ignore it.

So I regrew the beard, but this time I made it work—neat, full, and intentional. Then I started trying out sports, just to see what stuck. Tennis, running, biking… I gave them all a go.

But the one that really clicked for me was rugby. Something about it felt right, like this body was made for it.

I threw myself into it. It was a lot of hard work—hours in the gym, changing how I ate, how I moved, how I carried myself. But over time, I started to see real results. The body I was living in became exactly what Kristoph had pretended to be all those years ago: a true muscle hunk.

It wasn’t just the body, though. Something about the discipline, the structure, the focus it took to transform myself—it all changed me, too. I started posting on social media, sharing my progress. And damn, the attention rolled in. Now I’ve got more hot guys sliding into my DMs than I can keep track of.

But here’s the thing—I’ve learned a lot about how to treat people, about how to navigate relationships. I’m not the boy-obsessive heartbreaker I used to be. That’s made the best ones—the guys who actually matter—want me even more.

Honestly? I’ve never felt more in control, more confident, or more like me.

---

That brings me to today. I just got an email telling me to check the messages on this old Tumblr account, one I’d almost forgotten I even had. It was from Liam.

I was surprised to see his name pop up after all these years. Part of me wondered what he wanted, but honestly? I didn’t even read it. And I’m definitely not going to respond. Why would I?

So consider this post my way of signing off for good. I’ve learned my lesson—I know better than to mess around on those forums ever again.

Besides, look at me now. I’m hot as fuck. Why would I ever want to be anyone but me?

[aealzx]

_______________________

Update Post

Prologue | AO3

Previous Next

_______________________

“Everything’s fine, Danny just wanted to join us for lunch,” Tim declared when he entered the dining room with Danny. It wasn’t the complete truth, but it was still better than telling them they had left Danny without enough water and he had collapsed trying to get it himself.

“Oh! You’re finally ready for something other than toast, huh?” Stephanie asked as everyone’s mood seemed to lift with that declaration.

“Y’yeah… It’d be nice to get back to eating anything I wanted,” Danny agreed, going along with the reason Tim had provided as Tim helped him get situated in an open chair next to Danielle, who gave him a thumbs up. Seeing, and smelling the food the others had made him realize he actually was a little hungry as well as thirsty.

“You’ll love Alfred’s cooking, trust me,” Tucker chimed in around his own lunch. It looked like they had some sort of creamy soup and small sandwiches.

“Pretty sure that’s what I’ve been having already,” Danny snickered.

“Yeah, but this is actual food,” Tucker corrected.

“Just don’t push yourself,” Jazz cautioned, not wanting Danny to make himself sick even though he hadn’t had any issues lately. It was a comment that helped Tim understand a little more why Danny was so bad at asking for help.

As soon as Danny had been brought to the table Alfred had left the dining room to fetch lunch for him as well, soon to return with another tray of food. Unlike the others though, the bowl was full of a mild tomato soup that was pleasantly warm. And that and a small plate of two slices of lightly buttered toast were placed in front of Danny along with a glass of water. It was a welcome change from the broth he’d been getting, and Danny couldn’t help smiling.

“Thank you,” Danny was sure to bid, looking up gratefully at Alfred.

“You’re welcome, Young Master,” Alfred responded, pleased to see their house charge feeling well enough to join them at the table.

“He still looks a bit like death warmed over,” Jason commented casually before putting a spoonful of soup in his mouth.

“That’s rich coming from the dead man walking,” Danielle returned just as easily.

“Morticians wish they could match my liveliness,” Jason retorted, raising a hand to frame his face for a moment.

“Guys, could we not do the dead jokes? You’re gonna make people hole up,” Stephanie chided, noting how others at the table were grimacing or otherwise looking rather sullen.

“Oh come on. You have three dead people at the table. It’s not that insensitive,” Danielle protested.

“Dani, I dont think it's a comfortable topic for everyone,” Jazz hushed, glancing towards Bruce, who’s expression was looking significantly distant.

Danny hadn’t commented in favor of blowing on the tomato soup enough that he could eat it, and then was distracted by the surprisingly gentle yet rich flavor from the simple food. It definitely made the trip to the dining room worth it, though Danielle’s comment made him end up looking around at the others in mild confusion. She obviously meant him and herself for two of the people, but who was the third? He realized it was rude after he was caught, but he couldn’t help looking towards the girl with ashen skin and black hair. Wait… who was that again?

“No, it’s not Raven. It’s me,” Jason snickered slightly, pointing to himself and grinning slightly.

“....You don’t look dead,” Danny admitted, subconsciously comparing Jason to the other ghosts he’d had to deal with over the years.

“Not anymore,” Jason clarified, sparing the others at the table, and inevitably himself, the trauma trip by keeping the explanation simple.

“He died before though. That’s why he has that weird vibe not like anyone else,” Danielle added, sounding rather proud for knowing that now. “Figured that one out finally.”

“Hn,” Danny hummed around some toast, figuring if he got the option to ask about more details he’d have to do it with a smaller crowd.

“It's good to see you up and about now though kid. How are you feeling?” someone with red hair that Danny also didn’t recognize decided to change the subject to.

“.... Okay,” Danny answered, squinting slightly trying to remember who this person was also. “Better than a few days ago at least.”

“Good, good.”

“This is Wally, and Raven,” Dick spoke up after noticing Danny getting increasingly confused trying to place names to the new faces. “They both were a big help with your recovery, and we figured since you were starting to feel better we could start trying to figure out how to get you guys back home. Both of them are familiar with interdimensional travel, and Wally is pretty knowledgeable about the mechanical side of things while Raven is more versed in the mystical.”

“Oh. Are you guys going to build another portal? I guess that makes sense,” Danny acknowledged, now understanding who the new faces were.

“Well, that depends,” Wally admitted, grimacing a little. “From the sounds of it, with talking to Raven and some others, it doesn’t sound like even attempting to open a portal to the Liminal Realm is a good idea.”

“She mentioned before that attempts usually end up with some sort of explosion or implosion,” Jazz recalled.

“But she was able to do it just fine, wasn’t she? That’s how she got the ectoplasm,” Tucker pointed out.

“That was only because Dani and you two were present. And because I closed the gateway before it could react,” Raven clarified, and Danny noticed her hand seemed to have a residual injury that made him frown. “The gateway was also only one way. I was able to accept the gift it was giving to Dani, but if I’d tried to send anything through it in return I’m sure it would have broken down.”

“And based on the research Barry and I did, there isn’t much for anyone in this dimension to go off of when it comes to the Liminal Realm. It’s only really known as the most fussy realm to deal with, and most people don’t bother,” Wally concluded, only a little upset about the matter. “Which is why we wanted to ask you about how your parents were able to make a portal that’s permanently open. Everyone else said you’d know the most about that topic.”

Danny inevitably grimaced a little at that fact, not feeling like he knew much about how his parents had made the portal to the Infinite Realm either. But if it would help them get back to his parents, then he could at least try to help. “They’re not the greatest at documenting their work, but I guess I did get curious enough to look into it a little some time ago. What do you want to know?”

“Do you have any idea how the portal was constructed?” Wally prompted.

“Trial and error?” Danny grimaced again, and backtracked when Wally looked unimpressed. “Look, my parents took notes, sure, but they weren’t organized and I’m not completely sure which ones were part of the final product. I won't be able to tell you exactly how to build one.”

“That’s fine, I wasn’t expecting you to have a blueprint memorized,” Wally chuckled, not sure if Danny was being vague on purpose, or just hadn’t worked with anyone before on constructing anything. “You can just tell us what you remember, and we can try to fill in the blanks and figure out if it’s a viable option. Jazz said it was a structure on the wall in your home basement?”

“Mm,” Danny nodded around a mouthful of soup. “It looks flat when it’s on, but it’s actually a tunnel about… maybe the length of this table?” he guessed, squinting slightly as he tried to remember. “I think they changed the size of it several times, the first prototype was only about this size,” he added, gesturing to a tabletop model size in front of him. “It’s about… 2 meters in diameter? The measurement isn’t exact- is this what you want to know?”

Both Wally and Raven were listening intently to Danny’s descriptions, and Wally blinked when Danny interrupted himself to clarify again if he was saying anything useful. “Yeah, it’s great. Anything you know about it will help, even if you think it’s not important.”

“Would it help if we tried to recreate what they can remember in a 3D space?” Tim spoke up suddenly, noting how Danny seemed to be struggling in explaining in words something he’d only dealt with in physical space.

“We can do that? I’m not exactly… a sculptor or whatever,” Danny asked, fumbling over his thoughts and words as he was once again starting to feel incredibly dumb.

“We’ll have to go to the basement, but the computer down there should allow you to draw a hologram of sorts based on what you remember. That way we can see what you’re thinking, more or less,” Tim explained, then inevitably glanced over Danny’s form briefly. “If you’re up for it of course. We don’t want to push-”

“No. It’s fine, I’ll do it,” Danny agreed quickly, not sure how to accept Danielle trying to reassure him by placing a hand on his arm for a moment. She knew her brother tended to get flustered in anything that resembled an academic setting, but wasn’t sure how to convince him he wasn’t as dumb as his school told him he was.

“Cool. We can head down there after lunch,” Tim nodded, returning to his own meal.

__________________

You ever have hair that's 100% def too short to get in your food when you're eating, but you still push it out of the way anyway? Yeah I'll admit this drawing was 100% self indulgent 'cause I remember seeing a similar drawing of a different chara before and just loving it XD I love when charas get drawn doing really subtle but oh so casually human things.

Anyway, tomato soup with bread is my favorite food ever, so I tend to default to that when charas get some notably "good food" or comfort food for once.

fast update because this is part of that bug chunk I had to split into 3 parts XD just had to get a drawing

___________

Tag list: @galaxy-sharks-and-bottled-ships, @starscreamlover, @nerdynonnativenarnian, @dragongoblet, @megacharizardx99

@bellathecatastrophe, @cj-ghostemoji-destielpie, @asexual-insomniac, @wolfeyedwitch, @tkiesai, 

@fanaroff, @raven1508, @nebulainajar, @serasvictoria02, @oliocelottafanfics,

@honeysuckletook, @omniithe-deer, @wolf-under-the-stars, @gingernutcalo, @that-random-fangirl,

@op-sys-chaos, @kirasigncomics, @ehobep, @paranoid-ira

[burnt-by-marigolds]

I've only recently started to play the game, so I definitely don't have the full picture, but this explanation of Astarion’s lousy (let's be honest) attempt to bite Tav feels so on point to me.

I had a friend who just couldn't take the tension when they anticipated something bad might happen (please note: might, they couldn't be certain if the thing they feared actually would happen or not). They stressed so hard they actually preferred to provoke the very thing they feared and deal with it immediately rather than wait for who knows how long in uncertainty.

And I kind of feel it's the same for Astarion. He's hiding his true nature while at the same time he's probably convinced his deception is eventually going to be revealed anyway. He can't take the anxiety and uncertainty (those feelings are extremely draining, and he's already in a stressful situation for a handful of other reasons, lol), so he self-sabotages, preferring to face the inevitable immediately and thus maintaining (or deluding himself to maintain) some semblance of control.

(Then again, I haven't played the full story or his origin yet, so I might be entirely mistaken, lol. But it's still a nice headcannon.)

i know people complain/make fun of Astarion's attempt to bite Tav or origin characters because like, he's seen how everyone fights, everyone's on edge, and he thought they wouldn't wake up to him BITING them?

sure, he's pretty desperate but personally i hc him as counting on Tav to wake up. he wants to confess that he's a vampire, he just doesn't know how. whether consciously or subconsciously he wants to get caught, and he chooses who he thinks will most likely hear him out.

it makes even more sense since he still tries to bite you as Karlach, when he should know damn well he can't even touch her.

[professional-jaywalker]

"Being a Bird"

A small essay about the difference between the pop culture Bird and being a bird.

Being a bird is probably one of the most romanced identity. Being a bird means nothing, behavior wise, scientifically. Yet, being a bird portrays something very specific into people's mind.

Being a bird is freedom. It's effortless flight, belonging to the realm of air and never wanting to touch ground again. Being a bird is adventure, migration. A good half of movies about birds are about overcoming the thrilling dangers of going over entire continents in one year, the reward of seeing an exotic haven far from the cold. Sometimes, being a bird is being a strange endearing critter, voice mimicry, stealing shiny things, cuddling up and preening one's flock. Other times, being a bird is a sharp beak and sharper claws and being the Predator from Above, undefeated in the heights.

I've seen a lot of people question birds with that idea of a bird in mind. And, clearly, it can be true. One bird I know is migratory to her very core, the pull of Africa leading her to travel, irresistible. Another deeply intertwined with the drop of gravity as it's ultimate strength, entire biology built to master it.

But I cannot relate to people who go into questioning bird from the perspective of the Pop Culture Bird Homonculus, of this chimera of all the Cool Bird Traits. It seems like a fictional character to me, without all the little details that make being a bird real. Perhaps it is because I break all of these core traits.

I do not fly well, I glide when I must, and more often I run. I much prefer the ground. I am not migratory, and one part of being a roadrunner to me is Territory, and Surviving winter. I've never had the luxury of fleeing the cold, as much as i dislike it. I do not mimic all that much, I am solitary, I hunt by running along the grass. Barely bird, in the eye of the Being a Bird rules.

Rules say, then, i should not relate to being a bird. perhaps being a roadrunner for me would be akin to coyotes. Perhaps it would be akin to cats. But no, i do in fact relate to birds.

As it turns out, there is still a strong difference, for me, between the Being A Bird non-birds imagine and the actual one. I don't fly, i glide, i struggle to get to heights. A heavy sea eagle responded, saying how they felt flight as tool, from perch to perch, to scan for prey, too costly to waste in play.

I say that i hunt on foot, that i do not relate to the dive of the kestrel or the flight of the swift. A burrowing owl answer; saying they too prefer hunting grasshoppers from their height, sometimes perching but often just lurking around the grass.

I say i am alone, i do not have a flock, and a heron responds, why should you ? You are fine on your own.

I have met flightless cormorants, I have met penguins. On the contrary, I have met falcons, I have met corvids. The shapes of birdhood shift and change, but in the end, I tend to find someone for each things, be it bird like or not. Bird is a wide ground. Bird is a simplification, so that others can understand a flawed but easy view.

I am not A Bird, by pop culture definition. Yet i am very much a bird who relates to beings extremely far from me, behaviorally. honestly there's a point of no explanation. I share phantom feathers with them and beaks, but i couldn't be further from a hummingbird. It's a strange conundrum. So close yet so far, every species that talks about it. always slivers of Me-Truth, always things i just gloss over. a bird is not an animal, its a concept. i wish people would take that in account more before diving in it.

[iikisa]

heres more teacher rin au!!!!

ill have some more deets under the cut about this hehe

Welcome back aoex fandom… I’ve decided for this AU to be called “Tightrope”!!!! Haha,, yeah it’s definitely not what i was saying earlier in that ask..

But yeah!!! I’ll be tagging any post related to this AU under a tag from now on! ;)

(The rest of this will contain spoilers from the manga, but then again this whole AU has been spoilers..)

Alrighty, this time we’re going over the reason for Rin’s appearance… Just as in the manga, Rin becomes “unstable” through Yukio breaking his sword, except in this tightrope au, their relationship was much more rockier than it was in the manga. So much stuff that wasn’t cleared up, lots of avoidance, not so much emotional stability.. There’s a whole background to how Yukio and Rin’s upbringing would’ve happened in this AU because of their little aged-up situation— some events are interpreted differently to fit and others are just completely new, you can assume— so obviously things happened differently between them without Yukio being the cram school’s teacher and Rin actually attending said school to begin with…

So, now that Yukio left Rin for Illuminati, leaving him completely lonely and without a proper purpose to live for in life… Rin’s demonic nature is left in a “tightrope-like” situation.

See how the title relates? And boy does it apply for many other things too.

Where is Mephisto to help with all this you ask? Oh he tried to offer Rin help by going into the past, but even after learning of his origins (I don't think it helped his self-esteem much tbh) Rin still finds himself unable to "restabilize". Like in the manga, it's not until Rin truly accepts both sides to himself is he able to truly stabilize. This AU is obviously more heavy on the twins terrible communication and relationship, so obviously this will be harder for Rin.

For as long as he can remember, Rin's always thought of himself as a nuisance to his family. And with Fujimoto's death, everything seems to be Rin's fault and he's not stupid enough as to not notice the pattern. Unfortunately, this really eats away at Rin, especially with how distant Yukio was with him. So until Rin can learn to accept the uglier parts of himself, he won't be stable. And Yukio is the most important part for him to realize that.

Now… time for the appearance explanation.

When Rin first "unstabilizes" his hair, ears, and eyes change (other smaller details like his canines as well as the newest addition of little nubs on his forehead). The more "unstable" he is, the more prominent these features become—his hair is wholly whitish-blue, his ears and canines are pointier, his eyes are sharper and more vibrant, and his little horns get bigger.

After becoming a not-so-substitute-teacher for the cram school, these features start to become smaller or fade away!!!! Depending on Rin’s emotional state—negative emotions lead to instability and positive emotions leads to stability— his appearance changes. The happier and healthier he is, the more his black roots take place (his original hair color) and the duller his other features become!

Now as for his flames.. I think some logic may be off canon for this but it’ll be fine! He can freely use his flames like he does during the final war-against-satan arc, however, his state of stability changes how precisely he can use them. The more unstable he is, the broader and rougher the attacks. When he’s more stable, his attacks can be more precise and controlled, such as shaping his flames into weapons and other uses.

Anywho, I’ll have to start on making these differences more noticeable for the Rin’s I’m drawing out, because I do like to draw him at different times of his life (if you take note of his hair,,, its one of his best indicators ahah). But yes. Now that I’ve written this concept out (after I drew these sketches whoops) I’ll be showing off a little more of the story once some heavy inspiration hits me. I hope you guys enjoy hearing about this AU as much as I love writing and drawing it!!!!! I’d love to hear feedback or any fic recommendations..! They are my fuel.

Thank you for listening to the end, much love <3

[dreamscapeee222]

When You're Sick

Yoongi x reader

Masterlist

You are so well taken care by him. Never neglects a centimeter of your well-being.

Yoongi might not say much, but the moment he realizes you're not feeling well, he's all action.

Expect him to gently press the back of his hand against your forehead, mumbling something like, "You're burning up, why didn’t you tell me sooner?"

He’ll totally wrap you up in the fluffiest blanket and grumble if you even think about moving.

The quiet presence is everything. He’ll just sit next to you, working on his music, but every few minutes, you’ll catch him sneaking glances to check on you.

When you’re particularly whiny (blame the fever), he’d sigh dramatically but totally give in, cuddling you even if you’re “contagious.”

His voice would drop to this soothing, raspy tone as he tells you to drink water or take your medicine. You’d tease him about being bossy, and he’d roll his eyes then smirk, "Someone’s gotta take care of you."

Oh, and you’re guaranteed the softest forehead kisses. It’s his way of reassuring you without making a big fuss.

Yoongi would play your favorite songs, humming along quietly while you drift off. It’s his way of keeping you calm.

Yoongi might act all cool and composed, but if you so much as cough, he’s side-eyeing you with concern. "Are you sure you’re okay?" becomes his mantra, even if you’re just mildly under the weather.

He’d drape one of his oversized hoodies over you, claiming it’s because you look cold, but really, it’s just his way of making sure you’re comfy in something familiar.

The way he’d insist on tucking you into bed is almost comedic—pulling the covers up to your chin and patting them down like you’re a burrito. If you protest, he’d just shush you with a raised eyebrow, daring you to argue.

When you start to feel a little better, Yoongi would encourage you to sit up and eat something, though he’d bring the food to you himself. "You’re not moving until you’ve got your strength back," he’d grumble, balancing a tray in one hand like it’s no big deal.

He’d definitely go out of his way to find something small to cheer you up—a new pair of fuzzy socks, your favorite snack, or even just a random trinket that reminded him of you while he was out. He wouldn’t even make a big deal about it; just leave it on your nightstand and act like it’s been there all along.

You’d catch him fiddling with the corner of the blanket or adjusting the pillows every five minutes, not because they’re actually wrong, but because he’s just that invested in your comfort.

If you fall asleep, Yoongi would quietly rearrange his schedule for the day, making sure he’s around in case you need him. He’d tell the others he’s busy, no explanation, because your well-being comes first.

His love language in moments like this? Tea. He’d brew cup after cup, handing it to you with that signature soft look of his, saying, "Drink this. It’ll help." And if you tease him for acting like an old man, he’d just roll his eyes. "You’re the one sick, not me."

The little things matter most to him—like brushing your hair out of your face when you’re too tired to care, or wrapping a scarf around your neck if you dare to leave the house. It’s subtle, but it’s how he shows how much he’s tuned into your needs.

If you’re restless and complaining about being stuck in bed, he’d pull up a chair and sit beside you with a mock-serious expression. "Tell me what’s so urgent it can’t wait until you’re better," he’d say, just to distract you with some playful banter.

The thought of you feeling down or helpless would gnaw at him, so he’d be extra attentive, even if it’s just by being in the same room as you. He’d work quietly at his laptop, occasionally glancing over to see if you’re asleep yet.

And when you finally recover, he’d play it off like it was no big deal, muttering something about how stubborn you are. But if you thank him, his ears would flush, and he’d mumble, "It’s what anyone would do…right?" like he doesn’t realize how much he just went above and beyond.

Yoongi’s care is all about the little, meaningful gestures that say, I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere. He wouldn’t need grand declarations because the way he takes care of you says it all.

Requests may be made. Only SFW. Surrounding BTS and Avatar: The way of water only at the moment.

[kanonkitastuff]

All this and I would invite everyone to consider the ways in which our ideas of how a "good" story must be paced and concluded, etc and the fact that any piece of art that gets known well enough for many people to experience it in this day and age does so because it can be marketed within capitalism plays directly into this trend.

Earlier this year, I read a book called Notes from the Burning Age by Claire North. It was fantastic. Imagine an antifascist solarpunk spy thriller with the spiritual/philosophical underpinnings of a Miyazaki work like Princess Mononoke and Nausicaa.

But the thing is, a HUGE central theme is the importance of placing the narrative of the collective over hero narratives and great man theories of history. There's also a lot about how some knowledge (like technology to kill massive amounts of people at once) is not good and should be carefully safeguarded, and yes there are questions about who you let so the safeguarding but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. And how does the novel resolve its primary conflict? (Spoilers)

The main character hatches a heroic plan all on his own to use forbidden dangerous knowledge to blow up an army, including the mastermind behind the spread of fascism, and thus ends the war.

There's also something very much to be said about the way that the novel builds up the dynamic between the main character and the main antagonist such that the BEST POSSIBLE NARRATIVE EXPLANATION for the main antagonist's behavior at times is, "Well he's obviously in love with the MC." And I promise that I am not just reading that into the situation. Go read it and you'll see. It's a phenomenal book, in spite of the points I'm making about it here, and that's kind of the point.

Claire North wrote a book about the dangers of having soll heroes in which the main character saves the day by being a solo hero. She also wrote a book where the main antagonist is definitely in love with the main character, and there was room to say some VERY poignant things about masculinity and sexuality and fascism there, but instead she shoved a female character in the middle in a way that really feels like she just hadn't considered that A.) her antagonist could be evil and horrifying and also so deeply in love with her main character that he might even be willing to sacrifice goals and ambitions for this guy, or simply B) either one of these characters could be gay or bisexual.

It's difficult to say, but either way it seems related to a lack of ability to think outside of conventional narrative structures. In the same way, conventional storytelling wisdom says that a thriller like this needs a big climax, and in general that the main character must be a hero. So, the story ends in a big explosion with the main character becoming the exact kind of solo hero he was so opposed to the idea of throughout the entire book. The narrative contradicts the themes.

That doesn't mean that it wasn't an amazing book that invites readers to consider a very different perspective on the world. It just means that you need to bring your critical thinking cap when you read it. Which you should always be doing to some extent anyway.

The cultural ideas of what a story is supposed to look like can heavily impact what a story manages to say, either because the author doesn't consider alternatives or because editors and other gatekeepers to publishing that story say it won't sell if it isn't shaped a certain way. So keep that in mind while consuming works of art, and ask yourself, "What might this have looked like if the author had realized that other shapes were possible?*

i wish people could understand that it's fine to love a story for its insane or fun character/relationship dynamics and tight plot and themes that resonate with you (or gameplay/visuals/prose/whatever specificity its medium has) without trying to pass it off as anti imperialist or anti capitalist when its politics are vapid at best or use radical language as cover for its very liberal view of the world. and no im not simply talking about brotherhood or arcane here but a lot of shows/games that talk a big game about Empire and its horrors only to flop terribly on it, but still be appealing for other reasons

[transingthoseformers]

I feel the amnesia thing probably happens a little bit later into the war, at a point where the world has definitely changed from how they last remembered it being. In the possibility that Orion and D manage to have time to look around Iacon, they’re likely awed and confused by the changes. They noticed that their fellow miners now all have cogs and can transform, and energon flowing freely without needing to mine it. They probably tried to congratulate old co-workers and ask why everyone was fighting each other for. But this just earned confusion and guns pointed at D, probably a few shots fired cuz that’s been the knee-jerk reaction to him approaching them for years now. The two ran off terrified, not taking any time for any further explanation. That’ll probably force them to notice any wanted posters about the Decepticons, with D’s new face being the most prominent and the name ‘Megatron’ being under it.

Makes total sense and, god, that's gotta cause interesting results in this situation

"Me? But...why would they want me? And why are they calling me Megatron?"

[nightghoul381]

Dark If ~ Ellis Twilight

This a fan translation so it is definitely not 100% accurate. I do not own anything related to Ikemen Villains. Support Cybird by buying their amazing stories!

Prologue | Part 1 | Part 2 | Bitter End | Premium End | Epilogue

Victor: “Miss Kate. You can create the best happy ending possible.—Come along and enjoy your time in this twisted fairy tale world.”

I woke up in a room in a luxurious castle.

(Ummm… that’s right, I’m the ‘princess’ of this country.)

(…Huh? Why do I have that memory?)

Gradually, memories of growing up as a princess in this country began to come back to me.

(It’s like I have two memories, one of having always been in this world, and the other of having come from another world.)

But I had a strange feeling. I was certain that both were ‘me’.

King: “…Are you awake, Kate?”

Kate: “Good morning father.”

After knocking, my father came into the room with a worried look on his face.

King: “There are only a few months left until that damned wizard’s prophecy comes true… I’ll have to check in every morning to make sure you’re okay.”

I was born as a princess in this country and have lived my life confined to a castle—a boxed-in life if you like.

The reason—was because I’m cursed.

The wizard who cast the spell said “In ten years, you will prick your finger on a spinning wheel and the curse will be activated.”

--With that simple explanation, he apparently returned to his castle deep in the mountains.

My father and mother had collected spinning wheels from all over the country and destroyed most of them.

The people in the spinning industry were forced to work in state-run factories, and they won’t let me go near them.

Kate: “If the curse were to be activated, I would fall into a 100 year sleep…”

When I muttered this from memory, my father nodded, tears again welling up in his eyes.

(A curse and a spinning wheel… The world I’ve wandered into must be that of “The Thorn Princess.”)

(If I were to follow the storyline, it might be better to fall asleep as the curse says…)

A man who introduced himself as Victor said that this was a distorted fairy tale world where ‘something is missing’.

If I fall asleep before I find it—I won’t be able to search for the missing thing for the next 100 years.

(First of all, I need to either lift the curse or extend the deadline!)

Kate: “I’ll go and ask the wizard to lift the curse.”

King: “W-What?! That’s absolutely not okay!!”

Kate: “You can provide an escort if you like.”

King: “All the guards are afraid to near him! We sent in many assassins, but they all returned in a pitiful state…!”

Kate: “Then I’ll go alone. It’ll be fine. I’ve been a postman and I can smell dangerous places.”

King: “Postman? Ah, hey wait--!”

(I said I’d go alone, but… I think it’s better to do everything I can)

Leaving my panicked father and his guards behind, I headed to the mercenary recruitment agency in the castle town.

Kate: “I would like to hire a bodyguard for the duration of my trip…”

There was a good chance that we would be attacked by beasts or bandits on our way to the wizard’s castle.

With the pocket money I’d secretly saved up, I tried to hire someone.

However—

Long-faced mercenary: “Go to the wizard’s castle!? No matter how many lives you’ve got it won’t be enough!”

One-eyed mercenary: “No, no, no! I never want to go near that horrible place again!”

--The last person I spoke to, the moment I mentioned the word wizard, his eyes rolled back in his head and he fainted.

(Just as father said, the wizard is feared...)

(I have no choice… I’ll give up on hiring someone and go it alone.)

???: “You really want to go to the wizard’s castle?”

???: “If that’s what you want… I’ll be your guard.”

When I looked up at the person who offered, a young man was standing there.

Recruitment Office receptionist: “Good for you, my lady. He is a skilled assassin.”

Recruitment Office receptionist: “Once he targets his prey, he wraps around it like thorns and never lets it escape, which is why he’s called “Ellis of Thorns.”

A young man with mint-colored eyes at the reception desk gave me a thorough introduction.

I had secretly heard his commission fee, and it was something I could manage with my pocket money.

Ellis of Thorns: “I only work at the recruitment agency occasionally. I didn’t know I had a nickname.”

Kate: “Um, Mr. Ellis of Thorns… sir?”

Ellis of Thorns: “Ellis is fine.”

Although many people had turned me down, Ellis willingly offered to be my bodyguard, and he seemed like a savior.

Kate: “Well, I’d appreciate it if you could take on the job.”

Kate: “But… Ellis, aren’t you afraid of the wizard?”

Unlike the mercenaries who fled as soon as they heard that the man was a wizard, the young man looked calm and collected.

I was a little worried that he might not understand the seriousness of the situation.

Ellis of Thorns: “I’ve been burned, frozen, stabbed, and sliced by that wizard many times.”

Ellis of Thorns: “I’m sure I know more than anyone here how dangerous he is.”

Kate: “What?! You were burned…are you okay?”

Ellis of Thorns: “Yeah. I won’t die and I’m not scared, so it’s okay.”

(Maybe in a magical world where wizards exist, it’s possible to…not die?)

Ellis of Thorns: “I’ll go with you if that will bring you happiness.”

Kate: “O-okay, I understand. Thank you very much, Mr. Ellis!”

Ellis of Thorns: “Fufu… There’s no need to use such formal language.”

Ellis of Thorns: “You can speak more casually. We’re friends.”

(Friends!? When did this happen…?)

I was a little confused but I couldn’t detect any malice in the smiling young man’s expression.

(Maybe he’s the kind of person who quickly closes emotional distance…)

Kate: “Okay… Got it. Nice to meet you.”

--And so, I set off on a journey with the elusive and mysterious Ellis.

There were two routes to the wizard’s castle.

One route has rough terrain, but takes only about half a day to cross, and the other is flat but takes three days on foot.

Ellis, considering my physical condition as a sheltered person, suggested we take the easier path.

--Then, on the second night of our journey, I found it hard to fall asleep.

Ellis of Thorns: “Can you not sleep?”

Kate: “Yeah… We’re arriving at the castle tomorrow so it would be best to get some sleep, but…”

Ellis of Thorns: “Kate, can you come over here?”

Kate: “…?”

During our short journey, I’d come to trust Ellis, who had helped me many times, so I approached him without hesitation.

In an instant, my arm was grabbed and I fell on top of him.

Ellis of Thorns: “The ground is hard, making it hard to sleep, right? You can sleep on me.”

Kate: “B-but, I’m too heavy and you won’t be able to sleep, Ellis…”

Ellis of Thorns: “Kate, you’re very light, so I’ll be fine. Now, go to sleep.”

I tried to get away, but Ellis held me in his arms and wouldn’t let go.

Kate: “Just because I’m employing you, you’re being too kind to me, Ellis…”

Ellis of Thorns: “Really? Maybe I’m being so nice because I’m with you, Kate.”

Kate: “…”

I can hear my own body beathing loudly…

With my ear to Ellis’ chest, I couldn’t even hear his own heartbeat.

(…Am I the only one who noticed that?)

My mind was a bit foggy, but as Ellis rubbed my back soothingly, sleepiness began to wash over me.

Ellis of Thorns: “…Kate, why do you want to meet the wizard?”

Kate: “I want… the curse to be lifted…”

Ellis of Thorns: “That’s right…”

As I listened to Ellis’ soft voice, my eyelids gradually drooped.

(I’m indebted to Ellis for everything…)

(I’ll have to give him lots of rewards and say thank you when the journey is over…)

(Ah, but… if that’s all I’ll have with Ellis, I’ll be sad.)

While thinking about such things… I dozed off and fell asleep with my body resting on Ellis.

Therefore, I didn’t hear the words Ellis muttered as he watched me sleep.

Ellis of Thorns: “So, you want to lift the curse that the wizard placed on you…”

Ellis of Thorns: “Your feelings haven’t changed since then… I’m so glad.”

The touch of Ellis’ hand, which had reached up to wrap around my neck, did nothing to wake me up.

Ellis of Thorns: “…I want to kill you soon.”

---

Thanks to Ellis, I was able to sleep soundly.

Finally, we arrived at the wizard’s castle.

However, the road leading to the castle was overrun with thorns, as though trying to repel outsiders.

Ellis of Thorns: “We can’t get through. Let’s take a detour.”

Kate: “Yeah…, …Oh, can you wait a moment?”

Ellis of Thorns: “What’s wrong?”

Kate: “A little bird got stuck amongst the thorns and can’t get out…”

I crouched down next to the brambles, careful of the thorns, and made a path for the bird.

The little bird, taking advantage of the opportunity, escaped from the thorns and flew away.

Kate: “If it had remained trapped in the thorns, it probably would have died. I’m glad it was able to be freed…”

Ellis of Thorns: “…I agree.”

Ellis of Thorns: “Even a small bird would be happier if it could choose the time and place it wanted to die.”

Ellis of Thorns: “You were so kind, Kate, to let it choose how it wanted to die.”

(I didn’t save the bird so it could choose how it died…)

(…Ellis, you have a strange way of thinking.)

I felt a little strange but didn’t think much of it.

We took a detour and headed towards the old castle where the wizard lived.

--

Kate: “S-Sorry… I’ve come to ask you to lift the curse.”

Kate: “Are you home, wizard…?”

???: “Yeah, I’m home, but I’m going to have to decline your request to lift the curse.”

The man who showed up was much younger than I had expected.

Ellis of Thorns: “I’m home, Jude.”

Ellis of Thorns: “Kate, let me introduce you to Jude, the wizard.”

Kate: “…? Wait a minute…”

Kate: “Why did you say ‘I’m home’? What is your relationship…?”

Ellis of Thorns: “I’ve been acting as something like Jude’s assistant for a few years now.”

Ellis of Thorns: “When I have free time, I work at the mercenary recruitment agency to keep myself in shape.”

Kate: “What… that’s…”

Kate: “Ellis, you offered to be my body guard, and you helped me a lot on my way here, so I trusted you…”

Kate: “This whole time you were a pawn of the wizard who cursed me…!?”

Ellis of Thorns: “It’s more like a contractual relationship than a pawn.”

Ellis affirmed it as if it was no big deal.

(I can’t believe Ellis made a contract with the wizard before making one with me…)

(I travelled alone with him and thought of him as a reliable companion…)

Ellis of Thorns: “Kate, what’s wrong? You look pale…”

Ellis held out his hand with a worried look on his face, but I reflexively brushed it away.

Kate: “… I’m sorry.”

Kate: “I’m… I’m going outside to cool my head.”

What had happened was so overwhelming that it made my heart ache and I felt like I couldn’t bear it.

I refused and tried to leave the castle. However, the wizard wouldn’t allow it.

Jude the Wizard: “You’ve come here to see me, haven’t you? Guests should retreat to the guest room.”

Kate: “--ngh.”

--Jude grabbed me by the arm and, without any further ado, pushed me into the drawing room.

Kate was ushered into the drawing room, and the hall became silent again.

By now, Kate was probably in her enchanted guest room, being treated to hot tea and sweets.

Jude the Wizard: “…Ellis, you have no understanding of people’s hearts at all.”

Jude the Wizard: “If you heard that the wizard who cursed you and the bodyguard you had become friends with had a contract, you would probably feel betrayed.”

Ellis of Thorns: “That’s what it was…”

Ellis of Thorns: “It’s been five years since I became a human, but there are still many things I don’t understand.”

Jude the Wizard: “It’s only been five years.”

Ellis of Thorns: “For us, it’s already been five years.”

Ellis of Thorns: “All I wanted was to make Kate happy… Human hearts are tricky things.”

Jude the Wizard: “…”

Jude clicked his tongue, not even trying to hide his displeasure at Ellis’ non-human values.

Then, he took out his sword and slashed at Ellis without hesitation.

--However, Ellis, who was cut, did not bleed and remained calm.

Ellis of Thorns: “…No matter how many times you try, it’s no use, Jude.”

The wound that Jude had inflicted on Ellis sealed up on its own, and his body returned to normal.

Ellis of Thorns: “No matter how much you burn me, freeze me, stab me, or cut me…”

Ellis of Thorns: “I won’t die until Kate is happy.”

Prologue | Part 1 | Part 2 | Bitter End | Premium End | Epilogue

[bilesproblems]

They do and it's so funny to me every time. You don't even know what the terminology means, you don't get to have an opinion.

Seriously though this shows what the exclus thought process is. "See word -> make assumption about what it means -> hate it based on assumption they made up -> explain unfounded assumption to others looking for information." Because if they bothered to listen to any explanations they'd realise they are WRONG. I know this because I've had many former exclusionists change their minds based on the explanations I've provided. It's the definition of reactionary. Their assumption is a reaction to seeing the term, and their hatred is based on that reaction. It's exhausting to argue with these people because they never have any idea what the fuck they're talking about

I've noticed a lot of exclus think "mspec" means "male spectrum" or something related with male LMAO

[psymachine]

Just curious, would love to hear what is your like number one Sunny episode or moment?

disclaimer that i definitely am due for a series rewatch soon, but my gut-response is "mac and dennis move to the suburbs".

i don't have a well-thought out explanation for this though. and i think if i started explaining all my feelings, this post would become intensely long word vomit, so here are some bullets:

i am very openly macdennis trash, and i love episodes exposing the meat and sinew of their fucked-up relationship.

juxtaposition of mac and dennis against the "normal" people of the suburbs highlights how dysfunctional they are but also how the bar and the rest of the gang (more so than just the city, i would argue) are a "safe space" for them and they'd struggle to survive without that.

when dennis "breaks" in other episodes, it's often in an impotent/pathetic/little boy way (which i also enjoy~), but in this episode we really see his cold and violent impulses come through, which is fun to me. (what if nosey wally had come to see what all the fighting was about??)

similarly, mac butchers (if not kills), cooks, and feeds a fucking dog (their child??) to dennis to punish him for his deceit and neglect -- i just like when mac is a nasty little manipulative freak back.

i think "move to the suburbs" laid the groundwork for A LOT of mac & dennis' current dynamic by casting mac (having dennis cast mac) as the emotionally neglected housewife and transforming his role as dennis' caretaker from a position of power (think "mac and dennis break up") to a position of service/submission (outwardly, i mean -- we also know dennis can no longer live without him). i think this is also where we first see mac's interest in making a home and perhaps even a family with dennis, different to how they've been living together as best friends & bachelors for the last decade.

basically, macdennis have changed a lot throughout the show-- for better or for worse -- but personally i think it's been fun watching it happen, and i think this episode is an important turning point in that change.

all this to say: i would be (will be 🤞) excited to see how their power/relationship dynamic shifts again as mac becomes more confident in his authentic identity and desires and dennis becomes less so.

[tmae3114]

so I've been looking up advice about hand embroidering on velvet for a project idea I had and I just found an article that was ABSOLUTELY written via AI because, well

[sevenines]

i saw this tweet and found it interesting for two reasons. one is that some people base how good cartoon network would be to toh by how it treated su, and despite the fact that su’s treatment by the network was considered poor at the time, now its thought to be exceptionally good in comparison to modern shows.

two is how exactly su got impacted by a limited budget. a common criticism is how characters like connie, peridot, and lapis are left out of missions. but balancing a lot of characters is not only hard but also costly (extra animation, extra voices—it’s been revealed that the show is limited to a set number of characters per episode otherwise they’re over budget). animation mistakes are not uncommon since retakes cost extra. the entire reason the original show got cut short was due to loss of funding!