#they’re either gonna make each other better or make each other so soooo much worse

[fanby-fckry]

Unintended consequence of trying to work on their playlists:

I’m now making a ship playlist. I’m shipping them. By Talos, this can’t be happening…

Thinking about switching Dual’s DOD to be in the late aughts-early 10’s so that I can tap into my emo/alt/numetal music phase (is it a phase if it never ended?) for their song inspo.

[okthatsgreat]

hi lee!!!! ummm thinking of interesting things and questions i just woke up hmm.. ok i’m curious about any of your ocs in like. a opddmh situation… like either they ran away or they’re the one like sheltering a younger dr participant. could be with another one of your ocs could be with a canon character.. are there any combinations there that would be interesting for you? hopefully this makes sense i’m still sort of asleep so i think i worded it sort of clunkily lol :) hope you get less bored soon!!!

OH MY GODDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD OH MY GOD!!!! OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! boredom cured forever and ever always and ever . you are the best for this one. wrote WAY too much hfjkdsgk

(opddmh refers to this fic btw!! this will make zero sense without context LMAO)

ill try to assign them a person and give them a bit of an arc i think.......... in other words ill try to map out what i would do with them if they were in the actual story as another pov >:))

billie: in my mind she is definitely one of the more obvious candidates for a story like this just because soooo much of her character depends on other people and how they influence her personality... and because of this there are a LOT of options regarding who could take her in. i would most likely write her arc around getting better rather than getting worse LMFAO which means a few people would get crossed off of the list right off the bat--- immediately coming to mind is the hiyoko/mahiru/ibuki gang for some reason. i think theres a lot to explore there !!! billie could definitely take influence from ibuki's style, her impressionability/mirroring of other people's personality could definitely lead to trouble around hiyoko considering they are both stressed out, mahiru would be in so much strife about suddenly getting shucked into this caretaker role she's been so adamant on escaping since her killing game and there would be a LOT of parallels to hiyoko there. especially since yknow. billie is copying hiyoko a bit. i can see those three taking in this moody ass teenager with so many illnesses. so many awful influences its great

erin: OK so i am going to assume this is a situation where every season 50 participant is 16-17 again in this hypothetical scenario where they run from the hospital LOL. dear god i can see erin SPRINTING away. im gonna give her to sayaka on this one hands down. sayaka finds erin dead at night just walking absolutely nowhere with this very disorienting smile on her face LMAOO. i think erin's arc in this story would absolutely benefit from somebody who is able to relate to her as a performer and somebody who has this "persona" they need to maintain. erin is such a huge personality and her whole crisis is so huge that her guardian definitely needs to mirror her and learn from her or else they'll get a bit washed away i reckon ghdfksjghfdkjg. i can see the sayaka+erin pairing SO clearly too... like this is a sayaka who has been performing this character for years, probably to the extent where she hardly realises it anymore. throwing erin in with her, a teenage girl with identity issues that managed to actually go through with a plan that sayaka had during HER killing game .....Oughg. i can see them getting so stressed out by each other and i can see them getting just so sad at everything theyve lost

mika: hmmmmmmmm. mika is definitely one of the more practical characters and i dont think she would be hit as TERRIBLY hard as her classmates with the whole "we aren't real" thing. in fact there might even be a bit of relief from it at first. like...... youre telling me one of my biggest insecurities isnt even real because ultimate talents dont even really exist??? AND i dont have to get locked into one interest my entire life??? she's absolutelyyy traumatised and fucked up however i don't really think she'd leave that hospital in the first place LMFAO, i think she's smart enough to realise she doesnt stand much of a shot against team dr. if she made it out she would get paired up with another one of her classmates (like a ryoma+rantaro situation) anddddddddd hm. hm hm. imposter could be very very interesting. here is somebody that is constantly changing, never set in stone, and here is a teenage girl who is stubborn in her own reality and has come to realise her place in life a WHILE ago

naomi: this scenario is so so funny because it implies that somebody CAUGHT her hgfkdghfkdgkjfhgsdkl. there's not a doubt in my mind that she went sprinting out those doors the second she woke up from the simulator but naomi has always been a character with one foot out the door ready to leave. NEVER in one spot. especially in a postgame scenario, where she is extremely traumatised and honestly experiencing psychosis, it's hard to imagine her willingly going home with a stranger.... i think her scenario would DEFINITELY be a bit unconventional, with her constantly leaving and returning. akanes arc to the extreme HFGKGJ. i'll treat this as if naomi would be added to the existing narrative, meaning whoever her "guardian" is can't be EXTREMELY similar to akane so the whole "running away" theme would come second to themes of culpability and punishment i think. she would benefit from having somebody that also felt immeasurably guilty hmmmmmm. i can honestly see hajime. he's already busy as hell with everything he has to do for team dr, only to have to take time out of his day to help this tall ass teenager. their meet would have to be REAL unconventional in order for naomi to have stopped enough for him to help her lmao. as in "she ran out in the middle of the road in the middle of the night during some kind of panicked haze and he very nearly ran her over" type of unconventional. he patched her up, gave her some water and she was GONE. and then she comes back two days later like Heyyy 😍 So about that Guilt

rie: first things first i would throw her with ryobe hands down HGDFK. the amount of hijinks those two could get up to. fantastic. they would really benefit from having each other around and their friendship could be beautiful and real. with that being said these two are definitely a bit more difficult to pair with people just because immediately they have similar arcs to erin and naomi with both of them having difficulty accepting their identities and (ESPECIALLY RYOBE HERE) dealing with punishment/culpability. they would also need more than one guardian i think........ just for ryobe alone LMFAO. i reckon a few season one people could know about them tbh. for the most part they stay with aoi and her kid, which opens up a LOT of interesting avenues concerning whether rie and ryobe should leave for the sake of the kid's safety!! aoi and rie would pretty easily get along, especially if they both kinda keep each other at arms length with their people pleasing personalities they've accumulated over the years (aoi having developed it during her time as a team dr spokewoman). and then one day rie gets caught in complete distress and aoi realises "Oh Huh y'know what maybe this constant stress to perform under threat of violence against both me and my family isn't Healthy" and they both start trying to have more fun. go to the beach or smth. aoi swims for the first time in AGES and she has a total blast

ryobe: soooooooo fucked up postgame and would definitely stress aoi and rie out further without a doubt ghfdskg!! especially so close to the reveal that everything isnt real ryobe would definitely be in complete denial angie style. but more in a "hahahahahaha none of that actually happened!!! that was my brain playing tricks on me and actually i can hardly remember it anyways now that i think about it!!!!! this is definitely because it WASN'T real and NOT because my body is trying to protect me against everything that happened to me". he just reverts back to this goofy guy who always seems like he's on the verge of SOME kind of breakdown, and rie would be no help to him in those first few days, likely going as far as to AFFIRM nothing happened just to keep him from running off without her. i can see aoi bringing in some help for him--- it would probably be another survivor and i can REALLY imagine the dynamic between him and toko. komaru loves him but toko HATES his annoying ass ghfdkjghsdfkghgfjkdsg. they would definitely have a looooooong chat at some point that sends ryobe on the right track. also side note ryobe would be fantastic with aoi's kid however he would definitely teach that toddler a bunch of stupid pranks

sae: so sae is 34 which means she would definitely be the guardian in this scenario gdfjkg so it comes down to which v3 kid would make for an interesting parallel hmmmm hm hm.... immediately coming to mind is kaito. i can see himiko joining him potentially. sae is somebody who has trained herself to be extremely patient and believes anger to be a weakness of sorts. enter kaito who believes the only "strong" emotion he can convey right now is anger because he would be DAMNED if he started crying about that killing game gfhsdjgk. they'd have a lottt to learn from each other, and i think the entire scenario would definitely push sae to a lot of her limits. i mentioned himiko just because her arc of emotional repression could be a mirror to sae possibly, but because this is a postgame scenario i think himiko would be SO absolutely fixated on being seen as useful and helpful and energetic that she throws herself into whatever work sae can give her. and of course sae the workaholic has a lot of work to give her LMFAO. they pass out at the same time

yoshito: similar to mika it's hard to imagine him leaving the simulator just because he is the protagonist and they'd be keeping an eye on him however if he DID. he would need somebody who is constantly in his ear like Aren't you mad .....Don't you want to go apeshit ......mondo and leon are coming to mind. they're really teaching that kid how to let loose. shatter some glass, go fucking wild!!!! and while we're at it, let's all examine how our reckless behaviour might be a method of self harm we have developed for ourselves after our killing game but make sure not to tell the kid ok. make sure nobody tells yoshito, who has been trained on helping people his entire life and just needs to think about himself for ONCE

andi: hhehehehhehehehheh. computer thang. even though she is ageless there is no universe where she becomes a guardian and it's really really funny to think that somebody grabbed her computer chip and ran. i think it HAS to be chihiro. something fantastic and vaguely homosexual going on there

[blackfemmecharacterdependency]

Pack it Up

This is something based upon a headcanon that I have about Beth bringing lunch to Rick on a daily basis because she obviously likes stuff like that (she’s usually using food as a way of connecting with her parents when they’re distancing from her, and I see it as one of her love languages and also something that Rick needs, as pointed out in this post.) 

She had seen him do this before. Sometimes, he HAD lunch, but it was… lacking, to say the least, and some days, like today, he had nothing. He used to just vandalize the table or something whenever he didn’t have lunch, or skip and get into trouble at some point before the day was over. Rick had been turning over a new leaf, though and the things that he used to do to cope were no longer “how he is.” 

But, some things he COULDN’T change. That was definitely just two slices of bread and mayo. Like… she’d seen him have lettuce on a bun before. He’d barely eaten it, even though he was probably hungry. He wasn’t a small dude and teenagers had pretty significant appetites. But, he WAS somewhat of a proud dude, and still at times a tad bit… standoffish. She didn’t want to offend him. She didn’t want to presume that he didn’t have money or food or worse, to ASK him and make him mad.

So… she… decided to try to play it smart.

The first time was pretty simple, at least from her POV. She came into the lunchroom, where Yolanda and Rick were already sitting and talking. Court wasn't there yet. And Beth, making sure that she was noticed and heard, laughed as she came to the table. Yolanda jumped, a little startled by the sound and Rick narrowed his eyes, suspiciously, but followed it with a smile and a, "Something funny happen, Beth?" 

She gestured a finger towards her brain and commented, "Just realized that I left the house with TWO full lunches today!" She laughed more than was necessary and now Rick and Yolanda both looked at each other, u sure of where Beth was going with this. "I mean, what am I gonna do with an ENTIRE extra lunch? I can't eat them both."

"You can bring one home," Yolanda suggested, at the same time that Rick said,

"Just eat it later."

"OR!" she cut them off and pulled out the plastic container, "Rick… you look like you packed a light lunch today."

"I didn't pack lunch today."

"Well, what do you know. Maybe the universe DOES help things sometimes, because I very accidentally packed an extra one, as we've established!" She cheered and excitedly slid him a plastic container. Yolanda was still confused. Rick just shrugged and accepted. 

Beth felt good. In her mind, that went well. She didn't even notice the looks that Yolanda and Rick exchanged to indicate that she was being totally odd. 

Rick ate pretty eagerly and Beth felt proud of herself. He had needed that. She was sure of it. He hardly breathed as he shoved pasta salad and broiled chicken into his mouth. When he did stop to breathe, he put a hand over his belly, seemingly satisfied and offered her a smile as he picked up the dish to go clean it out and bring it back.

The next time… she thought it would be too much if she tried for the next day, which she ultimately hated, because he didn't have lunch again and he laid his head in his arms on the table while she couldn't make herself enjoy her own lunch and Yolanda and Courtney didn't seem to even… notice. But Yolanda DID ask, "You okay, Beth?" To which, Rick looked up, head still on his arms and Beth turned from him, sadly.

"Yeah. Just… not much of an appetite, I guess." She pushed her food to the center of the table, "if anybody wants this, I can get the container later. Gonna hit the library." 

Rick sat up and looked at the other girls before pulling it in his direction, with a shrug of his shoulders.

Yolanda and Courtney gave each other knowing smiles, but then glanced at Beth's back as she left the cafeteria. "Okay, so like… she's definitely feeding him on purpose, right?" Courtney asked.

"Absolutely," Yolanda said. 

"Why doesn't she just say that?"

"Probably worried that Grumpy's gonna be a meanie about it." 

"What?" Rick asked when he saw the two of them looking. "You want some?" 

"No," Yolanda said, laughing. 

Courtney texted Beth, "Hope you feel better soon. He ate it ALL." 

Beth smiled when she saw the message. At least one of them did. The next day, she'd be more prepared! She had a big breakfast and she packed a big lunch. Just ONE day of being hungry was far too much for her, and there was no way that she was gonna leave her friend in that condition again, even if it was just for a day. 

He had one of those struggle sandwiches. A bun with a slice of cheese. He didn't even have a drink! "Boy, oh boy!" She started. Yolanda snorted and buried her face in her hoodie. Rick looked exhausted already. "I guess not having lunch yesterday made me big eyed this morning. I had SUCH a big breakfast, I'm barely hungry today. If anybody wants some of this casserole, I definitely can't eat all of this myself." She was only looking at Rick and he stared back at her, incredulously.

"Is… that an entire casserole?" Yolanda asked, on the verge of tears from stifling her laughter.

"What? No! I mean… it's very close. Neither of my parents were home last night, so it's… like… I had like two helpings and this is the rest, so like… a whole casserole...ish…" Yolanda got up, "I have to pee…" she was snickering and practically cackled as she stopped to chat with Courtney on her way out.

"She's in a joyous mood today!" Beth said, turning back towards Rick. "Soooo… want… some?" 

He eyed her and she felt her core warming up. Was he suspicious? Was he about to call her bluff? Call her out? Go off on her? "If you had a large breakfast, why did you bring so much? This container is twice as big as the ones you usually pack."

"Oh! I… didn't plan on eating so much this morning and I just took the whole leftover container with me, since they let me use the appliances in the lounge… so… I didn't prep my lunch. I just grabbed the container and left…" he saw that she was nervous. He also knew, for sure, at this point that she was definitely lying.

But, he just said, "Okay." She split the container down the middle and passed him an extra fork. An extra fork from her bag. He didn't bother with why she had it. It was clear to him, by now. She'd been doing this all week long. 

Courtney and Yolanda came to the table together and Court exchanged glances with Rick, who rolled his eyes and looked back at his food. Beth was watching him. That's what she did when he ate. She watched him and felt better, knowing that he had at least one decent meal for the day. Whenever he'd glance at her, she'd smile and look down. 

"Yolanda, can I have some of your milk?" He asked. 

She handed it over, "Finish it," she said with a shrug. 

Beth made a mental note to remember to bring him a drink tomorrow. The last few swallows of a pint of milk was… not ideal.

They were all three at the table whenever she showed up the next day. Courtney and Yolanda perked up when she arrived while Rick slumped a little. She noticed, but she decided to presume that had nothing to do with her.

"Ohhhh, that looks appetizing," she said towards the trays that Yolanda and Courtney had. Yolanda's face said it all, but still, Beth persisted. "I may just skip my sandwich and go buy a tray today. Rick do you want a sand.."

"You've GOTTA stop this," he said, shaking his head and sitting up. "Beth, I'm not stupid. I know what you're doing. EVERYBODY here knows what you're doing!" Yolanda and Courtney looked nervous and a little sad as Beth sank into the seat, obviously feeling defeated. Rick smiled and placed a hand on her shoulder, "Thank you. I appreciate it. Just PLEASE stop with the lies, you're terrible at it." Beth laughed and covered her face with a hand. "You're honestly like… the worst liar here." Yolanda nodded, laughing too. 

"I thought you'd be insulted if I mom-friended you at lunch, everyday. I didn't want to insult you."

"I'm not insulted. It's actually pretty sweet, but I mean… that's who you are. We're friends. There's no need to lie to me. And why would I turn down free meals? Especially good ones. Like, you never miss. What are we having today? Or… I mean, I'll take the tray if you were gonna buy a…"

"I was gonna buy one to keep my cover, but I absolutely have an additional lunch in my bag." They laughed and she pulled them out, "We've got pot roast sandwiches with side salads and a bought juice so you don't have to hydrate with Yolanda's milk backwash." She pulled out a carafe of juice and a cup. "I only have one cup, so you can have it and I'll… drink out of this…" she stared at the carafe and frowned.

"Would you feel better if you had the cup?"

"I really would. Drinking out of this thing seems very improper." He laughed and accepted the container, filling her cup as much as possible and pouring juice into his own mouth whenever he did drink, in case she wanted more in a little bit.

It was SO MUCH EASIER to just pack two lunches with no excuses and slide him one when she arrived in the cafeteria. And, everything went back to flowing smoothly without her trying to figure out an excuse. Yolanda and Courtney still gave the two of them looks that Beth didn't quite comprehend, though. Sometimes, Rick would notice and throw them an expression of his own that she couldn't quite place, either. They'd always look away, but with knowing smiles. Great. What the heck was it that they all seemed to know that she didn't THIS time? 

The looks she didn't notice - all those soft ones from Rick, when she wasn't paying attention. But the other girls noticed. They sure did.

[solalunar-eclipse]

Scars You Can’t See - Chapter 12

Chapter title: Beliefs

Word count: about 4100 words

Author’s Note: How did I write over four thousand words?? Mostly I’m just grateful this chapter got out in time, but still. Wow.

First  | Previous | Next

...

Over the next few days, Team Sonic dedicated their time to helping their counterparts recover from the exhausting ordeal of the past couple weeks. Tails worked to replace some of Omega’s burnt-out wiring (from his attack on G.U.N.), while Knuckles and Sonic...well, they wanted to take care of Rouge and Shadow, but it was very difficult when both Mobians kept insisting that they were “fine really, don’t worry about us so much” despite looking like they could collapse at any second.

The general stress level on the island was only raised upon a second call from the president, since she requested that a few of them come see her to discuss what should be done with G.U.N. at her office. Shadow and Rouge obviously weren’t going. Neither of them were ready to deal with the president, let alone the press (even if the latter continued to insist otherwise). The sheer idea of being in the same city as G.U.N. had especially shaken Shadow, even if he refused to say so.

Sonic had seen how he cringed at the mere idea.

Since Knuckles absolutely refused to leave his island, it was decided that Sonic, Tails, and Omega would travel together to see the president and hear what she had to say. She seemed pretty trustworthy, and if any of her staff wasn’t...they’d be able to handle themselves just fine.

While Tails helped haul Omega into the back seat of the Tornado (an impressive feat considering that he’d used to struggle with lifting Sonic in his early years) and prepared for takeoff, the hedgehog in question was zipping all around the island, trying to make sure everything would be okay while he was away and unable to defend his friends.

“You guys are sure you’re gonna be alright?” he asked for what was probably the fifth time, after Shadow had needed to physically stop him from starting a mini-whirlwind.

“Yes, Blue, we’ll be fine. Now go! You don’t want to keep the president waiting!” Rouge insisted, pushing the worried hero towards the Tornado.

He twisted around, trying to make eye contact with both of them. “You’re really, really-”

“Sonic.” Shadow said calmly. “It’s going to be alright. I promise.” 

The hero could practically feel his body untense, finally willing to jump onto the top wing of the biplane and prepare for takeoff. Before Tails fired up the engine, he took one last look at his friends.

Knuckles had walked up beside Rouge and looked like he wanted to put his arm around her waist without being awkward...which just made him look awkward anyway. The bat took the initiative herself, leaning against him comfortably. Her eyes were back to teal again, since she and Shadow had both taken out their contacts pretty quickly. 

Rouge had taken off her leather jacket by now, and Sonic could see it lying on the altar next to Omega’s generator- Angel Island was pretty warm, after all. Shadow was still wearing his hoodie, though he’d taken off the glasses. Omega had tried them on once out of curiosity and nearly broken them in the process...so the hybrid simply hadn’t bothered with it after that. His quills were still in a ponytail, which Sonic wasn’t complaining about in the slightest. (It was a good look on him, that was all!)

He switched on his earpiece and settled into his ‘flight’ position once again. “You guys read me?”

“Loud and clear, hon.” Rouge said. “Now go!”

The Tornado’s engine kicked up a roar as the plane wheeled down the clearing and began to lift off the ground. Knuckles and Shadow both waved, while Rouge opted for a mock-salute, which Sonic returned cheerfully as the plane pulled up above the altar.

He crouched low on the top wing as Tails pulled into a turn, angling the plane so that their course was set for Central City yet again. The fox switched on the turbo engine, too, but it would still take them about an hour and a half to reach the city at this rate.

To pass the time, Tails and Omega started talking almost immediately about how they needed to take some time in the workshop to fix up the latter’s various dents and scratches. Both of them seemed pretty excited about this- the former because he’d get to return to his workshop, the latter for style reasons, and both because they’d get to spend time together. Somewhere along the way, Omega insisted loudly that Tails “must return me to my original color as soon as it is possible to do so.”, clearly less than happy about his current paint job.

Sonic sighed as the conversation turned to advanced technical terminology, feeling a little bored. It was a little funny for him to say so, considering that he was blasting through the sky on a biplane going at speeds rivaling advanced jets...but here he was. Bored.

He tapped his feet, trying to look for shapes in the clouds or enjoy the feeling of the wind on his face, anything to avoid checking how long they’d been up in the air….

Too late.

The hero sighed loudly upon discovering that it had only been ten minutes since takeoff. How could something that was usually so cool be so...just...not?

Sonic quickly decided that he had to call up Angel Island right now so that he could find somebody to talk to. As the earpiece patched through to the other end, he heard a sudden “Ngh-” followed by a loud sigh. 

“Hey, everything okay there?” he asked, resulting in a startlingly high shriek from the other end.

“Sonic! Don’t do that!” Shadow hissed at him. “Give me a little warning next time!”

“There’s, like, actually no way for me to do that without talking.” Sonic shot back cheerfully, feeling more upbeat already.

“Ugh.” the hybrid groaned, before some sort of thud came through the mike.

“Seriously, though, you okay?”

Shadow sighed. “I’ve spent the past four minutes walking through a tangled, vine-filled forest in any direction that is away from the altar. It could be worse, but it could be better too.”

Sonic frowned, worried. “And why were you walking away from the altar? Are Rouge and Knuckles with you?”

“No.” the hybrid muttered. “They’re kind of busy making out. At the altar. Which is why I’m not there, obviously.”

“Aw, man...they probably just missed each other a lot.”

Shadow sighed. “I know they did, and I’m not judging them. But they deserve some privacy, and I really deserve to not have to watch that.”

Sonic grinned. “Hah! That’s fair. So whatcha doing now?”

“Lying on the ground next to a lake and watching some Flickies on a tree. You?”

“Sitting on the plane. And bored. Or, at least I was. Bored, I mean.” Sonic amended quickly.

The hybrid snickered. “I’d hope you’re still sitting on the plane.”

His smile only grew. Talking with Shadow was always fun- he didn’t know why he hadn’t called sooner!

“Soooo...you feelin’ any better after those power naps of yours?” he asked curiously.

“Actually, yes. Mostly it helps to not be looking over my shoulder all the time.” Shadow sighed again. “It’s…” he trailed off, clearly embarrassed.

“Hey, you can tell me!” Sonic said encouragingly.

“It's difficult to adjust. I...still catch myself looking over my shoulder only to see it’s a fly buzzing, not a plane, or something like that. I shouldn’t be, but I am.”

Sonic wished he was back at the island already so that he could give Shadow all the comfort he deserved. “There won’t be any planes there, Shadow. I mean it. And none of that ‘shouldn’t’ talk, either, ‘kay? It’s alright to be a little stressed, just remember everything’s gonna turn out fine.”

“That means a lot...thank you. Again.”

Sonic could feel a grin spreading across his whole face. “No problem! Now, what I really need to tell ya about is……”

He spent the rest of the flight chatting with the hybrid, catching him up on all the jokes, memes and random news he’d missed over the past couple of weeks. Shadow was eager to listen, and Sonic was so glad to finally be able to tell him everything that he swore he’d never take his friend’s presence for granted again.

Eventually, though, he was pulled back to reality in the middle of a particularly passionate explanation of why exactly it was so cool that the Tomatopotamus 2 movie’s release date was finally out when Tails tapped on his shoulder. “Uh, Sonic? We’re here now.”

“What?” The hero glanced down, only to discover that yes, Central City was in fact right beneath them. “No way, that was like twenty minutes!”

Omega shook his head. “Correction: it has been an hour and twenty minutes.” He sounded smug for some reason, and Sonic glowered at the robot irritably.

“I guess I gotta go for now, sorry.” he sighed into the earpiece. 

“Good luck to all three of you.” Shadow said. “I’ll be listening in, and I’ll go break up Knuckles and Rouge now.”

“Good luck to you.” Sonic snickered. He could practically hear Shadow roll his eyes at that one.

They coasted to a stop on the back lawn of the president’s home, the hedgehog pointedly ignoring Tails and Omega’s conversation about the theory of relativity, or something along those lines. Even though he didn’t know what exactly they were talking about, he could guess, and he didn’t approve. At all.

Sonic hopped off the wing of the plane before it had even finished landing the moment he spotted someone on the grass, waving hello as the president herself walked over to greet them. He rushed over to her, taking her hand and shaking it happily. 

He and the president had spoken a few times before- being a hero meant he ended up talking with quite a few famous people, but she was one of his favorites. She was relatively young compared to most of the others who had held that title, but she handled herself with the confidence and strength she deserved (and needed) for this station.

“Hey there! How’s the job?” he asked with an understanding grin, knowing all too well how it felt to be responsible for large groups of people at a time.

She dropped his hand (and the remaining air of formality) in favor of running copper fingers tiredly through her hair, letting out a long sigh. “These last few days have been tough, but I know it’s probably not as much stress as you guys have been dealing with. Still sorry about that, by the way.”

Sonic looked up at her, still sympathetic. “It’s not your fault. I bet you’ve probably got a lot on your plate too- dealing with this fallout ain’t gonna be easy.”

“I know, but it’s what I have to do. For your friends, and for everyone.” she said, squaring her shoulders determinedly.

Tails rushed over not long after, having parked and shut down the plane by now. “Hi, Ms. President! How are you?”

“Hello, Tails,” she said. Impressively, she was one of the few adults who refused to talk down to the young fox, instead treating him like the mature person he was. (This definitely earned her a few extra points in Sonic’s book.) “I’m perfectly alright...I hope you all aren’t doing too badly.”

The president had the thoughtfulness to at least look a little awkward at that, clearly embarrassed by the fact that some of the United Federation’s most famed heroes were now essentially unable to live in the country without being in serious danger. 

Omega greeted her as well as he made his way over, clearly alright with being at least somewhat decent to the woman who had helped shut down G.U.N.

“Would you like to come inside?” she asked politely. “I promise, there’s nothing inside but some Secret Service...and hopefully cake, if I requested it early enough.” she added with a warmer smile.

“What are we here for?” the robot asked bluntly, unprepared to trust as easily as the two Mobians were.

“Right!” she said, taking his question in stride. “I’m working on a new set of rules with the congressional branch that deal with some of the problems within G.U.N. so that they don’t crop up in the future, as well as trying to figure out what to do with them in general- so I wanted your opinion on both of those subjects! As long as that’s alright with you?”

Shadow spoke up in Sonic’s ear. “Rouge is interested and so am I.”

“Totally!” Sonic chirped, following her inside. Omega agreed with Rouge and Shadow (somewhat reluctantly), having tapped into the hero’s communications as they were landing.

Halfway up the stairs to the president’s office, the first lady came rushing in the opposite direction, apologizing all the while for getting in their way. “Hi, Sonic! Hi Tails! Hello, Omega! So nice to see you! Sorry, the cat’s gotten loose again…” she sighed, sagging against the railing briefly.

“We really need to get him a tracking collar, don’t we?” The president shook her head, her soft Afro bouncing as she pinched the bridge of her nose briefly. “Good luck finding him, anyway.”

“Have fun in your meeting!” the first lady chirped, winking overdramatically at her wife for emphasis before rushing off in search of their cat.

Tails grinned up at the president. “I know how you feel...sometimes I want to get a tracker chip for Sonic when he stays out too long on a run.”

“Hey!” the hero protested, but nobody seemed to be terribly worried about his pride. He could hear Knuckles, Shadow and Rouge laughing in his ear, too, and he pouted, wishing more than anything that he could offer a snappy comeback- but he couldn’t give away the fact that he had an earpiece in.

The president invited them into her office and began to lay out her plans for how to improve the country. The legislative body was working with her on some sort of complete shutdown and restructuring of G.U.N.- it seemed like there were going to be new leaders, new hiring processes, review systems, a different set of priorities…and that was just the start.

It was a lot, but Sonic was glad that she’d at least given them the opportunity to hear about these plans. Shadow and Rouge got to provide their input as well, which was great, but only through Omega, not Sonic. They would’ve trusted the president with that information, for sure, but the two members of the Secret Service behind her desk?

No way.

Especially not when Rouge recognized one of them from G.U.N.’s special training programs. They might not be close enough with the organization for it to really mean anything, but the group definitely didn’t want to take chances.

Partway through the meeting (not long after the cake arrived), the main phone on the president’s desk rang, startling everyone out of their conversation. She picked it up with a calm “Hello?”, but her eyes quickly widened as the person on the other end began to speak.

“Thank you.” she said quickly, before putting the phone down. Her eyes met Sonic’s, and he felt his stomach drop. The hero suddenly wished he hadn’t eaten just yet…

 “Three representatives of G.U.N. are at the front gate.” the president said quietly.

The hero heard a gasp in his ear. He wasn’t sure who had done so, but the sound made his surprise morph quickly into defensiveness. “Omega. Tails. Do you guys want to meet with them?” he asked coolly, his face losing most of its expression. 

“I would...like to do so.” the robot said.

Tails met Sonic’s gaze. “Yeah, same here.”

They moved to the main conference room, and the three heroes stood at one end of a long table, waiting for the members of G.U.N. to appear. It didn’t take long before they were buzzed in, and Sonic could feel himself shifting into a more confrontational stance, prepared to fight if necessary. 

The commander was the first one to enter the room. His presence immediately raised everyone’s tension levels- at the very least, he seemed to be aware of it. He almost looked...a little embarrassed? 

The silence on the other end of the communicator was near-deafening.

He was followed almost immediately by an agent that Sonic didn’t recognize, a wolf who seemed more than a little bit awkward and apologetic. She sat down to his left, sneaking glances at each of the three heroes in the room.

After that, a skinny, pale sort of guy entered the room, looking incredibly full of himself. Sonic wasn’t usually one to get bad first impressions of people, but this person irritated him almost immediately. Omega obviously recognized him- and not in a good way- as he began to make several loud clicking noises not unlike those of guns loading. On purpose, of course.

The commander sat down last (still seeming less than comfortable), cleared his throat, and looked up at the other three. “Before I speak, is there anything you would like to say?”

Sonic, Tails and Omega regarded him in stony silence.

He shuffled some of the papers in front of him and sighed quietly. “I would like to begin by apologizing for the distress I and the organization I serve have caused to you and your friends. All of you. I wish...no, I should have handled this in a different manner- requested a meeting, spoken with you first, done something to ensure that my intentions did not appear malicious. But instead…

“...instead I have distanced myself from three of the most skilled people ever to serve under my command, as well as further tarnished G.U.N.’s already ruined reputation. I…” The commander sighed here. This speech was already taking a lot out of him, Sonic could tell.

“I fear that my father’s views have heavily influenced my own, to say the absolute least, especially regarding my job and what needed to be done to serve this organization. ‘Shoot first and ask questions later’ was a favorite motto of his, and one that I accepted for a long, long time...my family has discussed with me lately (and quite gently, perhaps more so than I deserve) about how that ideology is problematic, to say the least.

“I liked to think I was not a bad person. That I was being more open-minded. But now I see that I was foolish to believe as much. I chose to try and salvage G.U.N., to cover up the mistakes as others have done before me because it was ‘for the good of the country’, because ‘other people wouldn’t understand what needs to be done’, and more. My guilty conscience wishes I would blame my father for my mistakes, but at some point, one must take responsibility for one’s own failures.

“Particularly…” and here he looked directly at the three of them, though he almost seemed to be searching for someone else instead, “...having alienated the last person on this planet who truly can comprehend the life I have led.”

Sonic realized with a start that he was talking about Shadow.

“All I can say now is that as of tomorrow, I am resigning as commander of G.U.N. I clearly have not succeeded in improving this organization at all, so I believe a new, younger face...someone without prior biases or contacts...would be better for us now.”

The hero heard gasps in both his ears- one from Rouge and Shadow, the other from the wiry man in front of him. Said human immediately started stammering at the commander, asking him why in the world he thought this was a good idea. The older man in turn merely waved him off with a stern word or two, forcing the other human to sink back into his seat with an obviously displeased expression.

The lavender wolf, the president, Omega, and Tails, on the other hand, all seemed to approve of the commander’s decision, as did Sonic. The hero felt nothing but relief now, hoping that finally, the big things could start to change for the better.

They spoke a little longer, the tensions mostly eased now (with the exception of the skinny guy, of course, who Rouge irritably identified as the less-than-respectful PR officer that the team had spoken to way back in the beginning). The conversation wasn’t very important, just polite nonsense about how change should be made soon and all that. 

Things weren’t comfortable by any means, and they shouldn’t have been, but...Sonic felt a little lighter at the thought that someone important in G.U.N. at least accepted what was going on.

As the three heroes left, the commander asked them for one favor. “Could you please tell Shadow and Rouge that I apologize for the way G.U.N. has behaved? The way in which I have commanded this organization is wrong...I can see that now.”

Sonic offered him a quick flash of a grin, realizing that the commander truly didn’t know about his earpiece, nor Omega’s connection. “Hey, being able to apologize says a lot, too. I’ll be sure to let them know, don’t worry.”

“Thank you, and safe travels.”

“You too, alright?” he replied politely, before hopping onto the Tornado with a wave.

The flight back seemed to take forever (really, this time), partly because Sonic was dying to get back and partly because his friends seemed too busy talking seriously to chat. He tried his best to bask in the feeling of hope, but it was difficult to focus when his excitement was rising with each passing second.

As soon as they landed, he jumped off and ran over to his friends. “It’s gonna be alright now, guys!” he said, grinning at them. “You’re gonna go home soon!”

Rouge gave him a big smile back, before rushing over to Omega to celebrate. “Did you hear that, Omega? We’ll be home in a couple of weeks, max! Shadow-”

She trailed off, watching him carefully. The hybrid was staring down at the ground, his hands trembling slightly. “It’s...done? Then what now? What should we do?” he asked, trying to keep his voice calm and failing miserably. Sonic’s ears drooped a little as he heard the shake in his friend’s voice.

“Now you get to rest. You’ve earned it, you know that? I know it’s tough to just...go back and chill after everything, but you gotta know when to let other people carry on the work ya started, alright?” Sonic said carefully, stepping closer and closer to Shadow. His hands hovered slightly over his friend’s arms, unwilling to touch the hybrid unless he was alright with it first.

Suddenly, Shadow leaned into Sonic’s chest, his eyes shut tightly, clearly fighting back some sort of emotion. The hero held his friend tightly, sinking to his knees in an attempt to comfort Shadow better. Rouge and Omega rushed over, holding him tight as well. “Hey…” the bat said gently, “Shadow, we’re all going to be okay, I promise. We can stop now.”

“How do we know? What if something happens and it all goes wrong-”

Sonic stopped him right there. “We can set up whatever you need to feel comfortable, but trust me, we’ll all make sure nothing goes wrong. I’ll hold the president to her word, and so will everyone else here.”

“But...nobody’s ever really been able to stop G.U.N. before...not even me.” Shadow said quietly.

“There are more people on your side now, Shadow.” Omega replied, looking down at him. “You are not alone in this fight- so many others want this too.”

“I’ll have to wait and see before I can believe that.” he muttered, sighing.

Tails and Knuckles walked over too, the former offering him a hopeful smile and the latter clapping a hand on his shoulder. “You guys can stay here a while longer, I guess, until everything’s sorted out.” the echidna said, trying his best to help.

“Yeah!” Sonic cheered. “We’ll make sure this all gets fixed up properly, alright?”

Shadow smiled faintly at him. “I’ll hold you to that, Sonic.”

The hero couldn’t help but grin back, all his hope for his friend bursting through. And when Shadow’s smile grew just that little bit more real, he was determined to do absolutely whatever it took to make the hybrid smile properly again and again, without any fear holding him back.

He knew, without a doubt, that Shadow was more than deserving of all the happiness in the world.

[springday-aus]

Enemies to Lovers!AU with Xiaojun

—

Group: NCT [+ WayV]

Member: Xiaojun / Xiao Dejun

Genre: fluff, comedy, romance 

Type: Bulletpoint AU 

Word Count: approx. 2.4k

so, you’re Xiaojun’s enemy (he thinks of it more of his number one attacker tho)

it wasn’t hard considering he’s always on fight or flight mode and considering his friend group….

fight mode is always activated

(ง’̀-‘́)ง

so it started when you became friends with Ten

the guy is so sociable, so you were bound to meet him and his other friends someday

but jesus christ, there were soooo many of them

it was a party; he threw a literal party of just him and his friends

and then there were others who turned it into a rave (i.e. Hendery, Yangyang, Chenle and Donghyuk)

anyways, you got to mingle and make so many new friends

it was going really well

until Xiaojun entered the picture

things went well with him too, until you made a joke that didn’t exactly land with him

but it landed well with the others

Lucas: “who in their right mind would like mint chocolate”

Xiaojun: “but I like mint chocolate”

You: “then you’re not in your right mind lmao”

YangYang: “I mean, is Xiaojun ever in his right mind tho”

everyone laughs

except for one person

Xiaojun stood up, staring you down for a hot second, before trying to argue back

in which YangYang was the main responder

you didn’t really think much of it, laughing away with the others

but, to him, you just declared war that day

it shouldn’t have bothered him as much as it did

but it did

so, from then on, things just got rockier

bc he started picking fights with you over the littlest things or he would argue with your points no matter what

you didn’t really think much of it bc he was also being picked on everyone else and you were like

every man for themselves huh

it wasn’t until he personally attacked you

it happened on Halloween

and he made an underhanded comment about how he’d look better in anything compared to you

so you made a “friendly” bet

but then you lost

bc Xiaojun looked better in the Jasmine costume than you and he def knew it too

and when he smirked at you

the grudge had been built

that’s probably when the mutual enemy status circulated around your friends

although, if they’re being honest, it’s so entertaining

especially since most of them like to gang up on Xiaojun too

and because of that unity, it’s only made things worse

from what the others can tell

you two don’t hate each other, but you def don’t get along

it ranges to food (e.g. mint chocolate chip incident that NO ONE lets go)

Lucas: “mint choco ain’t shit”

You: “retweet”

Xiaojun: “the attacks”

YangYang: “we cannot trust a man who eats bread with fucking lao gan ma”

You: “you eat what with bread?”

Xiaojun: “shut up. all of you.”

to activities

cue you two fighting about what movie to watch

Xiaojun: “Titanic is a classic!!!”

You: “it’s a joke, there was rOOM ON THE FUCKING DOOR”

Xiaojun: “IT’S ROMANTIC. HE SACRIFICED HIMSELF SO SHE CAN LIVE.”

You: “THAT’S NOT ROMANTIC. THAT’S SUICIDAL, DUMBASS.”

this feud is def bc you’re both petty as fuck

the bickering is nonstop

but, if the nct boys are being honest

they’re lowkey confused bc Xiaojun is supposed to have a really high emotional tolerance

he doesn’t even yell this much at YangYang or Ten

(excluding that one time he hit YangYang with that pillow very hard)

but he does blow off his top when it comes to you

which is sus to a lot of the boys

whenever someone does ask him tho

he just kind of……………

mumbles underneath his breath and then moves onto something else

meanwhile, Yuta: “isn’t he always like that?”

Kun: “who wants to tell him”

lmao, I’m kidding

kind of

anyways, you two are really just going at it

what changes?

you have to go to the dentist and get your molars removed

which means someone has to take you and go pick you up

obviously, Ten was going to do that, considering you two were the closest

so he dropped you off and you had your surgery

so what happened?

welp, your buddy Ten forgot he had a prior engagement and, hence, was unable to pick you up

cue him spamming the groupchat

and Lucas exposing Xiaojun

Lucas: Xiaojun isn’t doing anything Xiaojun: you don’t know that Lucas: I do tho, go pick up (Y/N) Ten: I’ll buy you anything from that green tea cafe you like for a week Xiaojun: deal.

so he came to pick you up, both willingly and unwillingly

and you……. you were more than a hot mess 

you were just a mess 

you basically were just blacked out that entire time after they gave you the laughing gas and completed the surgery

so you remembered absolutely nothing.

your roommate: “this is what you get for doing drugs”

You: “IT WAS PURELY FOR MEDICINAL USE”

You: “IT’S NOT LIKE I DID CRACK”

either way, your roommate let you know of the situation, taking note of how your enemy had to take you home

which

again

no recollection

your roommate: “he’s fucking hot tho”

You: “ugh, I know”

but that’s also when you decided

Ten is a dead man :)

Ten: “I’M SORRY”

You: “YOU BETTER FUCKING BE”

Ten: “I KNOW”

Ten: “............................................but………………………………….”

Ten: “maybeyoushouldalsothankhimfortakingcareofyou”

You: “sorry not sorry, I’m contemplating murder rn”

Hendery: “what do you call a murder against a friend?”

Kun: “don’t”

Ten:

You:

Hendery: “it’s a homie-cide”

You and Ten: “NOT NOW”

anyways

you knew he was right

so after you calmed down, you went to Xiaojun’s place (thanks to Ten), with some sweets to thank him

Lucas opened the door, let you in, and left to go to the gym with Sicheng

Xiaojun came out of his room, a couple of minutes after, disheveled from his nap

and when he saw you in his living room couch, his eyes widened, darting around to avoid looking at you

You: “hi”

Xiaojun: “hello”

You: “why do you look so scared? I’m not gonna jump you”

he stays quiet, the blush becoming more apparent on his cheeks

You: “Ten told me you took me home after my surgery, so…………………… thanks”

Xiaojun: “he bribed me with pastries”

You: yeah, sounds about right

You: “still”

You: “um, I didn’t know what you would like, so I brought some sweets you can just go through”

Xiaojun: “thanks”

it’s silent for another moment and you consider bolting out from the apartment, Wizards of Waverly Place, Harper-style: “see ya in p.e.!” kind of a thing

but he speaks up once more

Xiaojun: “are you feeling okay now?”

You: “uh, yeah, my jaw still kind of hurts”

You: “but I have meds they prescribed to me for the next month or so”

he decides to stop beating the bush: 

Xiaojun: “so do you remember what happened yesterday?”

You: “to be completely honest, no”

Xiaojun: “you… did a lot of things”

You: “what do you mean I did a lot of things”

Xiaojun: “you also said a lot of things too”

You: “..... are these things recorded?”

Xiaojun: “maybe”

Xiaojun: “some”

You: “dELETET HEM”

you actually considered tackling him, but deemed as too Yang-Yang-like

You: “what did I say”

Xiaojun: “I didn’t realize you thought I was handsome”

You: “wait what?”

Xiaojun: “you said, you had a crush on my ‘fine ass’”

You: “you know what? I think I’m gonna pull a Jack and commit suicide, goodbye”

Xiaojun: “ah, ah, ah, you said like, which is… present tense”

You: “semantics”

Xiaojun: “but did you like me at some point?”

You: “does it matter?”

Xiaojun: “yeah, it kind of does”

Xiaojun: “bc even tho we bicker, it’s, like, our thing”

Xiaojun: “plus, you’re kind of cute when you’re threatening to rip off my eyebrows”

You: “I did what?”

Xiaojun: “it’s no different from how you treat me now”

You: “I thought it’s because you don’t like me”

he just kind of shrugs, rubbing his neck rather sheepishly

Xiaojun: “you’ve seen my friends; arguing is our way of showing our affections”

You: “so, you’re saying this is your way of telling me you like me?”

Xiaojun: “I mean………“

Xiaojun: “are you saying you like me?”

You: “are you saying you like me?” 

*cue another argument about who likes who*

eventually, he found a way to shut you up

( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

cut to Lucas and Sicheng coming back from the gym to you and Xiaojun making out on the couch

Lucas: “NASTY”

Sicheng: “what did we…. miss?”

Ten somewhere: I fucking called it.

anyways

you both decided to date that day

and you two still bicker an insane amount, which includes you nitpicking Xiaojun’s tastes to Xiaojun refusing to delete those videos of you under the laughing gas despite your threats

but, the only difference is, your arguments can end with a kiss

and it always freaks out the guys whenever you do

Donghyuk: “I’m too young to be seeing this monstrosity”

Mark: “ngl, this is nice for them—they’ve stopped arguing”

YangYang: “I weirdly prefer them arguing over them with those sappy eyes tho”

You: “we can hear you”

Chenle: “but when have we ever cared?”

You: “I’m gonna beat your ‘01 liner ass istg—”

Xiaojun: “calm”

oh, you know what’s fun about your relationship?

you two can’t agree on some stuff right?

so whenever you have to decide something, say a movie or dinner, you two just heads-or-tails it

(there’s also this cute app where you put your options on a wheel and let that decide—the amount of times you’ve used that on your dates…… anyways)

most of the time, on these dates, you seem more like an old married couple and it’s super cute

it’s bc you’re already used to your worse sides coming out—the really petty ones, the screaming ones, the ugly ones

ofc these aren’t from serious arguments that occur

(remember folks, it isn’t healthy for you and your partner to always be fighting)

but when serious arguments do occur, you both take time to sit down and talk face-to-face

it’s hard to get into actual arguments with him, especially since he really is understanding and tries to pay attention to the smaller details

Xiaojun: “I like learning more about you”

You: “you can’t just say that kind of shit to me”

like, yeah, he’ll debate with you all night about why he needs to read the words of his book out loud but, by the end of the day, you’ll lay your head in his lap and listen to his voice as you fall asleep

speaking of which, you love listening to him sing to you

he gets a bit embarrassed sometimes about it, but seeing you smile so brightly at him makes him forget about it

because even tho you two bicker about little things, in the end, it just makes you two laugh at one another and how ridiculous you’re being

I almost forgot, so Ten thinks of him pairing you two off right?

so, whenever he does something annoying to either of you, he’ll constantly bring it up

Ten: “I guess this is how you two treat me, your personal cupid—”

Xiaojun: “yes, yes, we are grateful for you”

You: “but it would be nice if you would stop making those annoying sounds”

Ten: “what annoying sounds?”

YangYang: “that’s just you talking”

okay, no, but yeah—the nct boys are glad this rivalry is over because it was really just…. stupid to the core

but also bc you two look super sweet together and seeing you two making each other happy rather than annoyed is adorable

but just bc you two got together doesn’t mean the pettiness isn’t still there

You: “what type of freak sleeps with their eyes opened?”

Xiaojun: “I’m sleeping next to you, of course I need to keep both eyes open”

You: “RUDE”

Xiaojun: “and yet here we are”

You: “son of a bitch”

Xiaojun: “YOUR son of a bitch”

You: “eh, I’ll take it” 

[i-love-ninjago-kai]

Hi again!! I hope this isn’t too soon to ask again, I don’t want to burden you. Anyways, I really loved your last Kailor posts and though I’d love more on that, I wanted your thoughts on Kai keeping things locked up emotionally because I noticed that was something you’ve mentioned a few times. I’ve been working on an angsty Kai fic (post s3 stuff) where of course he hides everything he’s going through, and so I’ve been thinking about that a lot and how he’s been like that. Like him being more secretive from an early age to protect Nya and how that habit stays. Also how he deals with others being suspicious that he’s hiding stuff and how he’d react when confronted about it. I know this is a lot to unpack though so if you don’t want to that’s fine! :) (this was too long for an ask that’s why I did a submission)

- Submitted by @ofmagicandmusic -

Hey there friend, thank you! It warms my heart that my rambles can be helpful haha,

Sure, I’ll see what I can do :)

(Gonna be putting this one under read more too.. Sorry!!)

So... Kai doesn’t necessarily hide when he’s struggling with something, or rather, he’s really really bad at it. He’s a very emotive person, albeit he leans more toward the negative side of emotions. If someone doesn’t know him well, Kai is just brash and has a million dollar glare that could burn you alive, and a temper to be wary of.

However if you do know him, have seen what really goes on behind his eyes, it’s a little more complicated. We see that generally when Kai is in a good mood, he’s wearing a contented smile and is altogether pleasant to be around, that’s the side that Kai tries to show the media only.

But that’s not all Kai is. There’s plenty of days when he’s irritable and grumpy, and you have to be careful not to set off his volatile rage, he’s feeling all this and.. Nothing is wrong. Everyone is in good health, things are good in ninjago, all together things are well. Kai just has days when he’s angry, and the team knows this, and they love him all the same, happy Kai, or angry Kai.

Now... it’s deciphering whether or not Kai is having and Angry day, or he’s actually struggling with something, is when it gets tricky.

Because Kai will always give you the same answer when you ask. 

“No, I’m fine.” “I’m Alright.” Or a glare with more ice in it than what Zane can produce.

Kai has a really, really hard time letting people in. He’s spent his entire life doing things himself, and he doesn’t really see a reason to change that. No one was there for him when he was dirt poor, raising his little sister, and he handled it. 

Sure, it left irreparable damage, and his stress and loneliness festered into intense trust issues and low expectations for others, but he handled it. 

He took on ignacia’s judgmental and pitying stares, watched as no one really reached out a hand to help. He raised his little sister because she’s all that mattered. He doesn’t need anyone’s help.

Kai doesn’t need people to solve his problems for him, he doesn’t want them wasting their effort on him. Especially if he’s got it all under control.

He’s got it all under control.

And then Zane died, and Kai couldn’t handle it. Kai should be able to handle everything, he’s been cheated and life has been cruel to him, so he should be used to it pulling stuff to hurt him. 

But Zane is dead, and Kai doesn’t know what to do. Kai always knows what to do, and now he doesn’t. Everyone is mourning and comforting each other but it doesn’t even matter because Zane is still dead.

And it should have been him. Zane was everything Kai isn’t and didn’t deserve to die that way. Kai? Kai is expendable, he knows he’s no lynchpin or what holds the team together.

So why didn’t he die? Kai would’ve traded anything to take Zane’s place because it’s not fair. Kai has been put in an unfair situation, his entire childhood was unfair. Fine, he lived through that.

But this is wrong. It’s so wrong it makes him sick because he wants so badly to change it, but he can’t. He feels so deeply at fault that he is nauseated to even be in the team’s presence. Because he knows they can see how miserable he is, and he wouldn’t dare make them think he can’t handle his pain alone.

So he leaves. It’s night time, and everyone is still so, so tired from the overlord, and their loss. No one wakes, or even stirs as he leaves through the bounty’s window.

It’s not hard for him to make a new identity, this place is full of people who’ve run away too, he hasn’t been in the press much yet, and it’s not like these people care, all of them are as miserable as him. Who were they to judge him?

He falls into a spiral of fighting and drinking, his dingy little apartment he’s managed to rent is only used to sleeping at this point, or nursing his more serious injuries he receives at various fight clubs. At some point he stops trying to feel better. He doesn’t deserve to feel better, so he doesn’t.

He makes ‘friends’. Well, they’re not really friends, they’re terrible people who in reality couldn’t care less about him. But misery loves company, right?

The bruises he comes home with don’t even phase him anymore. When he came home to the team with bruises, he’d allow himself the pleasure of complaining a little, maybe letting himself sleep in a little longer. 

Now they just feel like a part of him, they change areas an severity, but in the end they’re all the same, and Zane is still dead. So does it really matter?

He doesn’t like the taste of the alcohol he drinks, it’s bitter and the still good part of him is ashamed to be drinking it. But it makes him forget, just for a little while, so does that matter either?

Shame pools in the pit of his stomach when Lloyd confronts him, he’s nursing a drink while he’s talking to the kid. He shouldn’t see him like that, but he does, and it’s too late.

Lloyd doesn’t ask him how he’s doing when he sees him, which Kai is sort of thankful for. He doesn’t really know how to answer. Because it’s obvious he’s bad, really bad. But even after sinking so so low and feeling so so... Awful, Kai still doesn’t want to ask for help.

He either doesn’t deserve help or he doesn’t want it. At this point he’s not sure.

He has to really look to find one of his gis, since he burned  most of them up one particularly terrible night. A ninja doesn’t go around looking for a fight, but Kai does, so he burns his whatever evidence is left of who he was.

I wish I could say that Kai get’s better after his time in hiding, working with the Slither Pit. But really... it get’s worse, because now Kai is so ashamed of what he’s done, and how that time changed him. 

He’s got new scars that don’t have honorable explanations, made some very bad people angry and he prays they never come looking for him. 

Worst of all, he abandoned them. He abandoned Nya, his sister who already knows the pain of abandonment. He repeated history, leaving her when he was the one person who promised never to.

But she forgives him, and in a way, he thinks that’s worse than her being angry. So he holds a grudge for the two of them, if she’s not going to be mad... Then he is.

So now asking for comfort is a luxury, that he absolutely doesn’t deserve. He neither wants, needs, or deserves help from his friends, not from his family, or anyone.

Well... Unless you’re Skylor. Skylor always gives him this... This look when he’s keeping something in. This look has to be magic because it makes his jaw unhinge and suddenly he’s talking. Talking to her.

And the first time it happens it scares him, because now she knows. She knows everything and she’s going to tell everyone how messed up he is (As if it’s not obvious)

So he waits for the team to ask questions. They never do, because Skylor never told them. 

She told them nothing. Everything she knows about him is still... Just in her mind.

The smart part of his mind knows that’s not great. To only open up to one person, but Kai is so afraid to show weakness, because he can’t. He’s spent his entire life having to be strong, he can’t break down, he has to be ready because sometimes the others aren’t.

He has to be a steady flame, that persists, and doesn’t go out.

Sorry this is long... I could go on!!! But it’s already soooo long and I went on some tangents, Sorry!! Hope this is helpful!!!

[cookie-cutter-communications]

Following the thief now… it was quite a challenge for the half-bot. It hasn’t been more than a few moments, yet they had already disappeared into the teal hues of this manor. The paths were winding and twisting with confusion, no doubt it would get to Cyborg soon enough.

Aimlessly moving about whatever path they could find, they took the time to open most of the doors they came across. Most of the stuff was boring- some bedrooms, a library, a few balconies- ooh! Those were the gems they stole last night! They looked at the bunch of them, a grin of pride brought to their face as their visor lit up with delight. There were so many colors that flickered in the morning light! They didn’t think silly little rocks could invoke such delight! Well- they didn’t really, they didn’t have much of a purpose- but they looked edible! ...Maybe they could eat one? Hm… Roguey wouldn’t be looking, so a small one would be fine, right? Picking one up with their mitten, they examined it closely. They didn’t know what it was, but it was red and blue! Neat! What was not neat was the reaction their systems had when it was brought close! There were loud static pops around their head, their arm seizing a little while their mind buzzed persistently...as if there was a sudden storm that had filled their form! It was enough to get them to drop whatever it was, and it fractured the moment it hit the floor. Abruptly, all of these things would collectively stop, and Cyborg groaned as things just seemed to go back to normal. Mmm, that was kinda mean! Maybe they were inedible...The rocks were finally fighting back against their fate, bummer. They were going to have to find a way around that! Haha, wouldn’t that be funny…!

Moving along, other rooms weren’t worth noting- it was cyborg’s perception of things, after all- Though they did happen to come across some large, vacant spaces. Hm… that creepy scientist would probably make use of this space. However, past those rooms, they would finally walk into the room that Roguefort had nestled themself into, full of fabrics and things of the like with lengths of it loosely reaching for the center of the room. There was a soft humming from the thief as they looked about them, then down to a sheet of paper they had scribbled things down on. The moment they felt even the slightest movement, however, they squeaked, their gaze darting to where they had noticed something else moving.

“...O-Oh. It’s just you.” “Yeah, the dumbass passed out. Soooo, now I’m left with you!” “...You don’t like what I’ve done.” “I sure don’t!” “Yet you’ve lied to me.” “H-Huh?” “I was told I would have fun during all this, yet we’ve all hurt each other. I’m also losing my sense of self... I think it’s fair to call ourselves even.” They glanced at the half-bot, who, after a few moments, huffed at such a remark. “Whatever, fiiine. Your offense was still worse, though.” “...If you assume so. I still plan on apologizing to you both with at least something of worth.” “Is that why you’re here?” The question got a nod out of Roguefort. “I don’t wish for us to drive each other apart-” “Tch, you say that when you let Aloe of all people live here-” “Rather, I think we should try to befriend each other.” “...We need to take you to another gem place, don’t we?” “Hear me out, will you? It would benefit us both to become friends with what could be considered a worst enemy. That way, they have fewer reasons to turn on us, and perhaps they’ll have a bit of a turnaround and realize that helping us with the husks is beneficial.” “...So...There was a reason you let them stay here…” “Cy, it would have taken five seconds to explain...perhaps you should try to think a little before acting?” “I can do many things, but that’s impossible!” Such a phrase got them both to laugh a little. The taller continued to scribble down things, prompting Cyborg to sit next to them and look at what they were doing. “...What is that?” “Well, I’ve felt that we’ve all been through a handful of things, so… If we’re becoming nothing like what we were, I figured that our physical identities should be shed.” “...What?” “I’m making outfits, Cy.” “...Ohhhh!!!! Why didn’t you say that before?” They giggled, bapping them on the back. “I didn’t know you made things like that!”

“I still wish to remain eloquent, is all. And, why wouldn’t I? I’m a thief, it’s only fair that one would have to come up with their own disguises. All of ours, whoever made them...oh dear. They are in such need of repair.” They smiled, glancing at the other. “...By chance, do you know what Aloe likes, aesthetically speaking?” “...Why are you asking me that?” “I wish for it to be a surprise for both of you, and I don’t know what either of you likes most.” “Oh...um. They like green!!! And gold, I guess… They’ve always seemed like they wanted fancier clothing, I think…? I dunno, they always seemed unhappy with how they looked.” They would trail off, feeling some guilt that they knew not the origins of. To get their mind off of it, they looked at Roguefort, who was scribbling out a little design for them. “...Do you have any preferences for yourself?” “Mmmm, I wanna be fluffy!!! With little neon colors, maybe more orange!!! It looks really neat, and-” At this point, they would begin to ramble about what they’d like, all of which the thief would be sure to scribble down. It was a lot more specific than Aloe’s, that’s for sure! By the time they finished, they looked down, and noticed something...odd! Roguey didn’t have a single mark down on how they wanted to look!!! Hm!

“...We could try going on another heist tonight if you’d like.” “We?” “We! You’re not half bad at trashing the places we steal from, now are you?” “Hmhm, I would never be half bad!!! I’m the best when it comes to a little destruction!!” “Ah...then we shall embark on our little adventures soon enough. ..Would you mind speaking with Aloe for a little while when they wake up?” “About what?” “Just… anything, really. I don’t want us to fall apart. As useful as it would be to befriend them, I’d rather it be a genuine friendship, not some flimsy attempt to force them to stay.” “...Fine. Uh, so, we’re gonna go and do stealies tonight, yeah?” “We are, yes.” “Hm!!! I will destroy all the paintings you’ve collected!! And then I'll get food! And... then talk to Aloe, ew. I’ll do a lot so you can make silly little outfits!” “And it is much appreciated.” the stealer of jewels watched them dart away, before turning back to the page.

~ “...So, it’s been weeks, and they still haven’t been able to think of something to wear?” “I mean...yea. They said they wanted to give us the outfits for us today since you somehow are feeling better. Why are they missing out on the fun stuff?” “Perhaps they’re having an identity crisis.” “A what?” “...Right, you’re still dumb. Uh… I think we could try to make something for them…” “But we don’t know shit about making clothes!” “That’s why we attempt to do such a thing, Cyborg.” Aloe huffed, reaching for some of the pale yellow fabric strung along the length of the room. “Should we keep the color scheme the same?” “HELL NO! I dunno what would work nicely with that cheese, but I know they’d want some tacky fancy stuff…”

“I mean, they don’t look half bad in fanciful things.” perhaps a darker shade of teal…? Off-white… With a few light purples. “Do you have any ideas for them?” “Mmmm, I like the cape they have! It’s like a portable blankie!” “Is that all you can think of it as?” “Definitely! I will steal it someday!” “Already taking notes from them, I see… How odd.” “Hm?” “I never thought you would be able to adapt to the changes someone else has.” “Oh, no no! Nope! Not even close! You’re not even in the same ballpark! Y'see, they’re chaotic. We both share a brain cell, that’s how I manage to do that.” “...I’ll have to conduct an experiment on that later.” “H-HUH?” “You’re second-guessing yourself now, hm? Having regrets?”

“Shut up! Ugh, let’s just...work on this. I can’t believe you managed to get better, I was hoping you’d die again.” “Very nice of you, thanks.” They shot a glance at the pouting Cyborg. Nevertheless, they’d continue working on the outfit, which would very easily take over a few hours. The half-bot attempted to help, but the most they could do was suggest ideas and hold pieces of cloth in place. Boring!!! That was up until they were about to start making the cape- That was something Cyborg snatched right up! “I’m making this part!!! Mine!!” “...Allow me to help, at least a little.” “No! You helped with everything else, I should get a little say in this!” They held the fabric close, but the scientist would grab onto it. “I understand, but I’m following the design you wish for them to have!” They would try to yank it from them, but their grip remained strong. The prototype of the cape was in a deadlock between the two.

“No! Nono, Roguey needs something from me! You already got your grimy hands on everything!!” They seemed a little desperate, continuing to pull at the fabric. “Let go!!! You never let me do anything!!!” “You let go! You can come up with a design for this, it will be just like the rest!!!” “No! I wanna make this piece!!” “Well, you’re going to mess it up!” “I won’t, Dumbass!!!” “That doesn’t want to make me let it go any faster!!” “Well, then I’ll MAKE you let go!!!” They yanked on it as hard as they could, which did get Aloe to fall back… Only because the cape was ripped in half. The anger the half-bot exuded simmered down as quickly as possible thereafter. They could only stare at what they had caused with a bit of shock, and even more guilt. It… It’s only been a few weeks, yet… They still weren’t over the thought of killing the scientist… “...I’m sorry…” “Hgh...it’s fine…” They let out a heavy sigh, shaking their head as they sat up. Ough, that wound from all that time ago still hurts like a bitch. “Perhaps we could just...work on it together. It...Hah, it’s even torn in half…” It was clear to Cyborg they were just trying to make the most of this inconvenience… and it made them feel a little better that they were at least trying to make amends. It was...still way too small to matter, but it was big enough to be noticeable! “...Mmm...sure.”

~

“I’ve noted you both were in the room I was in while designing outfits for you both...whatever was your business in there?” “Well, we uh-” “We made you this really cool thing!!!! We think you would like it lots!!!” Cyborg said, seemingly happier than they were before the two of them walked into the room. This caught the thief off guard, a warm smile brought to their face shortly thereafter.

“Well, I’m pleased to let you know that I’m here to show you both your outfits… Made from what we all think you both would like most!” They unveiled the two designs they had been working on, handing each to their respective owners… Who seemed to cherish them. “There’s so much fluff on this!!! More than I asked! I thought there would be only neck fluff, but this??? This much????? I love it! I dunno who thought of it, but thankies!!! It’s also so bright!!! And the orange is all shiny...It makes me so happy!!!” They hugged what they were given as if it were some form of a plush. Not a moment later, they zipped away, likely to change into it. Aloe simply stared at what was given to them, looking it over as if attempting to find a single flaw… “How is there not even a single loose thread…?” “Ah, I have my ways. Yours was a lot of fun to make, Aloe.” “Hah...it makes me feel bad…” “Why’s that?” They tilted their head inquisitively, perking up when Aloe showed them the outfit the others had made for the thief of the night… “We...did our best, but it doesn’t look that great…” They glanced away as Roguefort took what was offered, also looking it over. “It’s not that bad! Some of the stitching is weird, yes, but… I like to think it gives the piece flavor.” They grinned, no hint of contempt on their face. “The only thing I wonder is why the cape was presumably torn…” “Ah, we got into a bit of an argument… We stitched it up together soon after and tried to hide it with a ribbon...” “Hm...the concept is interesting! Do you mind if I make a few changes?” “Not at all. It’s something to make you more comfortable with yourself, after all.” “Then, I’ll likely put a few more ribbons to match what you’ve chosen for me. It’s...a nice change of pace, the colors you chose.”

~

The moment they got the chance to move back into the fabric room, Roguefort did, sighing as they closed the door behind them. Right… They just had a few things to take care of. The ribbons, checking up on the outside world, and...one other thing they nearly forgot about entirely. There was a closet on the far side of the room. The phantom silently moved over to it, looking back to the doorway to make sure nobody was looking, before opening it up and peering in. There it was...this odd cane they never really found a use for until such a moment, when they recalled the dangers that lay ahead of themself...and everybody else. Taking it, and lightly dusting it off, they looked to a nearby window. The number of husks staring back, smiling with the faces of the damned… it was growing. It’s gone from one to twenty, and they could tell some form of danger was lurking. Glancing down at the cane, they gently lifted the handle away from the base of it. The moment they saw the sharp glimmer of metal, they closed it again. So...this wasn’t just them hallucinating things about what this was capable of. Perhaps it would prove to be useful? They knew not. What they did know, however, was that it would be put to the test soon enough. Best not to dwell on it now. Right, their outfit...there was quite a bit to fix. ...Where were the ribbons put? Ah, there...the spool had a little happy face on it, likely drawn by the happy-go-lucky bot themself. What a curious little group they have befriended...

[fizzingwizard]

;______; just heard that from September we’re gonna have three students in our cluster who are under 1 year old... (5 in the school total)

aaahhh im exhausted just thinking about it

and whats crazy is in one of the classes with under 1 yos there is a kid who is between 1-2 yo and she cannot walk yet. We have been trying to help her learn and have begun wondering if there is some reason beyond her mother just didn’t really encourage her to walk before. (Like maybe she needs leg braces etc.) So far no news on that but this kid only drags her feet around, obviously she needs constant help, and there are 12 other kids in the class, two of whom are under 1 and three teachers, HOW are they supposed to do it???

and the class that will have three under 1s has two first year teachers in it, that makes me so nervous... They’re both awesome coworkers, this is no shade on them, but under 1s can be TOUGH, it’s SO easy for them to get hurt. idk it feels like an accident waiting to happen.

i’ve been at schools where 5 students was an entire class, if we’re gonna have this many under 1s we should just have a class for them, come on! I love them but they are twice the work of kids on year older than them.

Also the recommended teacher-student ration for 1-3 yos is 1:6, which we abide by, but I believe it’s actually 1:3 or 1:4 when the kids are belong 18/12 mos. Apparently the head office does not care.

These kids are not in my class, I currently teach 2-3s, however I am a long care teacher and I look after them during morning and after care. I do their nap and their snack and play time supervision etc. From 10-2 they’re part of their class, but the rest of the day they belong to all of us.

More work ranting under the cut because I guess I just need to vent to the air.

And we have a LOT of students now - two clusters of going on 30 in each, in very small classrooms where the teachers are expected to watch them like a hawk AND keep constantly busy with numerous tasks at the same time.

Plus our prep time has been cut down this year despite additional work getting put on us, and we have no extra help.

If one teacher is out sick, no one gets prep time.

Don’t remember if I whined about this before, but a month or so ago we had a meeting in which the leader said “If you find you don’t have enough prep time, that’s on you to manage your time better.” It was super condescending and annoying. I’m like, dude, my contract says I get 1 hour prep and 1 hour break. We never ever EVER get the full two hours (and I should mention this is never consecutive, it’s 15 min here, 30 min there, 1 full hour if you’re really lucky). It’s usually at most 1 hr 45. But a 30 min break is fine! I’d love to take a 30 min break. Almost never do. Way too busy.

Like, I won’t get into it, but the laundry list of Stuff To Do recently has been ENORMOUS. In my class, I have 19 students. One of my co-teachers is part time, meaning she’s not around to help during much of prep time, and the other is a leader meaning she’s constantly in meetings or doing leader assignments. They are both fantastic co-workers, but yeah, this means I do ALL the class stuff. I prepare all the crafts, I do a ton of the organizing, and I’m often the only teacher from my class available in the afternoons because part-time teacher went home and leader teacher is in a meeting. So I end up with a lot of the after care stuff.

We have to hand out these big projects that teachers are responsible for preparing for each student on 8/16. We know these are coming and prep for them as soon as possible, but like, I won’t get into this either lol, but it’s so hard. It’s time-consuming by itself, and made worse because all the school computers are crap (like takes-15-min-to-start, another 10 to open the browser, 5 to go to the website, then it freezes, then 5 more, another freeze, etc) and like you have 15 min break time hahahahaha.

I wanted to get such a head start that I just started doing what I could back in the beginning of the year but we lit can’t do the bulk of the work until a certain kind of envelope is delivered and that doesn’t come till summer for some stupid reason. Soooo our long prep days in April when there are no kids around... can we use those to prep for this project? Heck no!

Anyway. This year’s is due on 8/16. This coming week we are off for obon break. This year also, the company is doing the project slightly differently. Instead of staggering what class gives out their projects to their students when, we all have to do it at once. We are our company’s biggest school, sooo my honest thought is no one at the head office thought about us when they made this change. The other schools don’t have to stagger anyway, they have at most two classes. We have four.

So this means everyone is printing their projects at the same time. For one student, you need 10 sheets on A3 paper. For my class of 19, that is 190 sheets of paper. For four classes, we’re over 700 sheets total. THAT IS A LOT OF PAPER.

So I get to work this morning and boss says “Yeah so we’re out of A3 paper.”

!!!

IT’S DUE MONDAY.

There was a little bit left so I just charged and printed as much of my stuff as I could in the morning before anyone else could. Then, miraculously, another packet of A3 paper appeared out of nowhere, and we were able to print most of the rest of our students’ projects. (My coworker who is a leader has not printed hers yet because she is super busy and isn’t finished. Again, she’s an awesome coworker, I wish I could have helped her more, but uh, I’m also swamped and not taking breaks, so. Hopefully she can do it before we really do run out of A3 paper.)

Getting more paper is no big deal, it’s just that no one has the time, and this is due Monday.

So I was super stressed. Sooooo super stressed for such a dumbbbb reason. And I don’t understand why these projects have to go out on Monday anyway. Some kids don’t even come to school on Mondays. Like. Just make sure they get them next week, isn’t that good enough?? Why make us stress and panic.

Everyone else seemed fine though, I was the only one tearing my hair out because I’m the type who finishes everything a day early so I have a day to check it over... I am not spontaneous and I hate to rush...

I lit told my coworkers, because regardless of the paper situation we are still behind because we have not had any time to organize the projects, that I will just stay late tomorrow to do it. It’s the Friday before a break so I don’t mind too much. I am really tired tho and would of course rather just go home and sleep but. I’ve done this before. Finishing up this project will take 1.5 hours - 2 hours at the current state it’s in, IF I can just sit down and do it uninterrupted. (Have I mentioned these projects are HEAVY?? And there’s 19 of them?? It’s a big job just to take them out and start putting them together >.<)

So tomorrow evening that is what I will likely be doing -.-;

There are INNUMERABLE other STUPID parts of this project - the idea behind it is great, but the way we are required to make it is absolutely bonkers and desperately needs a revamp but does anyone listen to a preschool teacher? heck no lol

uggh.

I feel better after venting tho.

I like my job, I just wish humans in general gave a shit, not even about quality of life (since obvs that’s expecting too much lol, also as a person with privilege I’m aware I’ve already got it pretty darn good), but just about not making jobs that are ridiculous. Just plan them out better, sheesh. There’s no reason for all this running around. The projects don’t need to be printed. Or they don’t need to be so huge. They don’t need all this fuss and nonsense. They are a good idea, but we could do them in a way that would be sooo much less stressful.

(The funniest part of all being, it’s a project for the parents mainly, and the parents... don’t like it x’D No they really don’t. They are happy to have the project, but first they’ve got to get it home, and it is HUGE and HEAVY and UNWIELDY lmao. And some of them are carrying twin 2 year olds and both of their futons home as well, and we’re like “here you go, two giant projects for you to take home!” And the parents are like “thanks????”)

[elizabeatrice]

Feeling Blue, Seeing Red (Chapter 69)

Let’s Talk About JSHK Manga #5

Updated: 19/8/2020 (more thoughts)

Bea is back with the lame punny titles~

Warning: !!! MANGA SPOILERS UP TO CHAPTER 69 !!! Duh.

Soooo I opened the raws this morning. Saw the spicy and went 'ohh shoot'. Then some of y'all say that some folks are hating Akane bc of this chap. I proceeded to panic, because fandom war is scary af. So I translated the chap for myself. And I just gotta say:

Aoi, Nene, your boyfriends are idiots. Y'all gonna be punching and headbutting the idiocy out of them for the rest of your lives and I'll be willing to pay for your karate classes.

The teen drama made me laugh so hard ahahahaha I guess this is what you get for hoping sensei will drop a bomb this month lmaoooo.

P.S. Teru you little shit

Man I don’t even know where to begin. This chapter is oozing doraaaaama and I can’t take it seriously no matter how much I try. I remember thinking, “Shoot, this is the ‘I hate you, I hate you too, proceed to make out’ trope in JSHK’s classic ‘oooh serious moment, eh? PSYCHE!’ style,” before bursting into laughter.

I swear I’m not making fun of it.

Because it’s already fun to begin with. Ahahahaha.

I do however, take seriously the long-awaited insight into Aoi’s mind. I hollered in joy, y’all. ‘Cause like ... finally!

(Also like ... ngl the development of Aoi and akaoi in this arc might come into play in my Shrek AU. Pls don’t ask. Yet. That’s not the official AU name I swear I just wanna confuse my readers ahahaha)

Back when chapter 64 came out I wrote something that was supposed to be the first of the Let’s Talk About JSHK Manga series but I ended up not posting it because I wasn’t sure about a bunch of things. Here’s an excerpt from that post, titled ‘Aoi and Her Blues’:

I mean, what did the minions do to her? ‘Remove unnecessary things’. Someone said they removed her inhibitions (I’m terribly sorry I forgot who said this because it’s been so long so I can’t put the link here, but if you know, feel free to send me the link).

But she has to be brainwashed, right?

She remembered enough about Nene. Enough to call her out on her feelings (that she still denies btw lol) and recognize Hanako from Nene’s wonderful description (or because Aoi could see him all this time and never said anything, who knows?).

Most importantly, she remembered Akane.

So apparently they weren’t unnecessary enough to be erased from her memory. Which I’d beg to differ if I were going to make this girl willingly sacrifice herself.

Would she let her best friend fall down into a pit full of giant insects, or let her childhood friend get impaled? I mean this is the same girl that cried when Akane and Yamabuki got together (by accident) and when Nene started talking to herself like a madwoman.

So yeah. Definitely brainwashed. Pretty sure now.

The one thing that bugged me is what she said though.

“I’ve always wanted to go somewhere far away.”

“Nothing will stop me from getting my wish.”

Btw these aren’t accurate word for word I’m just drawing from memory.

Is that a wish forced upon her by the brainwashing, or has Aoi been depressed all this time and ... y’know, therefore thought about ‘going far away’? I’m personally leaning more towards the first, but it still got me thinking.

Remember back in The Clock Keeper arc when she said there was something she wanted to tell Nene?

Can some creepy hands showing up in the gardening club’s album photos really warrant that kind of expression? Is it just me who got disappointed when the thing she wanted to tell Nene ended up being just that?

But if she did have such thoughts, why?

Maybe she was lonely? I mean Nene got so busy with supernatural shenanigans. Akane’s busy with student council stuff (and school wonder stuff). Though I don’t doubt for a second that he’d drop everything for Aoi, but Aoi’s not the kind of person to do that. And to be honest, I feel like so far Aoi hasn’t been shown having genuine interaction with anyone aside from Nene and Yamabuki without the other person being completely enamored by her. And even with Yamabuki that was just in that After School chapter.

So I guess my hunch wasn’t that far off. Still though. Still though. Is she or is she not brainwashed? Because as much as Aoi likes-but hates-but actually kinda likes Akane, I still don’t think she’s the type of person to stab her childhood friend until he’s got a hole through his fucking torso.

Throwing Nene into the bug pit I guess makes more sense if Aoi knew all along that the pit won’t lead anywhere too dangerous, and that Hanako wouldn’t leave Nene’s side. Nene’s perfectly safe with him. Sorta. She did get kidnapped and were about to be sacrificed after all. But heeey Hanako still showed up to save her in the end.

Stabbing Akane like that tho? Even if she knows he wouldn’t die in a boundary especially in his school wonder form? It just doesn’t feel like Aoi, man.

Then again she did say no one really knows her, and that anyone who does would end up being disappointed in her.

I’m really happy to know that she does not, in fact, appreciate all the attention given to her. Comedy framing aside, constantly having some random guy approach you to ask you out presumably every day is ... annoying at best. Kid deserves better.

So ya girl got some extreme trust issues. Strangers, even Akane and Nene, I could understand. But her dad tho? Is something going on in the Akane household? Bruh ....

How long has Aoi not been able to trust anyone enough to let them get close to her? Because if she’s been feeling like that about Nene all this time, Imma be super sad bruh. Nene is one of the most genuine kids ever (perhaps only second to Kou).

I understand that Aoi’s disappointed because Nene’s been keeping secrets, but honestly, who would believe you if you come up to them and say, “Hey so I summoned a toilet ghost and now I’m stuck as his assistant. The rumors about supernaturals are like, totally real, and can endanger everyone in this school for real, too. Also I turn into fish when I come in contact with water.”

Sensible best friends would either a) not believe you, or b) try to get you as far away from supernatural shit as possible ‘cause hello? Ya ain’t Miles Morales ya can’t just blast What’s Up Danger when monster of the week shows up.

Even if Aoi does let it continue, wouldn’t she wanna get involved? Would Nene let her get involved when Tsukasa’s still around? Ya girl got cursed, thrown off the top of a boundary, sent to literally nowhere and everywhere, almost got her body stolen by mirror monsters, kidnapped and taken into a fake world, and now trapped in literal Grim Reaper’s realm. Honestly, who would involve their best friend in this sort of shit?

It just makes me sad to think that all this time Akane and Nene have genuinely cared about her but she didn’t think they were. Aoi, my girl Nene literally threaded hell boundaries and high shallow water to save you!!!

Unrequited platonic love hurts just as much as romantic ones, y’all ....

Speaking of romantic love.

Hey, uh, Akane. For claiming to despise Hanako and calling him a slimy pervert, y’all kinda act the same way with your respective girlfriends when things get a bit heated up, huh? Even the teasing part.

Boy, you’re dumb af. You deserve that.

There it is y’all, it’s official. We got punches for akaoi and headbutts for hananene.

You deserve this too. But Teru’s face here is really annoying, I’ll give you that. Teru you little shit.

At least you’re finally gonna be useful. Let’s just see.

Hmm I guess I have to address the thing now.

Ahem. The thing. The pushing (pulling?) Aoi down, grabbing her neck thing.

Yeah I don’t get it either. Whether it was a creative choice taken in consideration to the actual character’s state or to just pander to the trope that seems to be marketable in Japan or both, I don’t really know.

I do however, have to remind you that none of these kids are in their right mind. One is possibly still recovering from the effects of brainwashing and dealing with not only extreme trust issues and insecurities, but also the sight of a gaping hole on her childhood friend and perhaps crush’s torso, not to mention having to deal with this in the middle of nowhere. The other one is the said person with a gaping hole on his torso, who almost lost his life-long crush, and even got stabbed by her in the first place.

They’re lost. They’re tired. They’re emotional. They’re frustrated. They’re two hormonal teens.

I think Akane thought Aoi wouldn’t listen to him unless he makes her. Which is why he went with exposing her by saying he hated her. Which is still a dumb move in my opinion. But Aoi rightfully got back at him. And honestly I didn’t think he really hurt her. I mean, it’s Akane after all. *shrugs*

The way I see it, the entire thing was a result from not only their current condition but also the uh ... not telling each other how they really feel all this time. Aoi with her issues, Akane with his secrets. They’re a ticking bomb. It’s horrible that they ended up hurting each other because of this (physically and emotionally), but I could see why it went like this. These two are flawed. Most importantly, they’re teenagers. They’re bound to fuck up in this equation.

Heck, I’ve fucked up worse in less endangering situations before.

But heeey once things get cleared between them they fall right back to each other. Sure things aren’t entirely resolved. But they’re gonna be okay. Teru’s there. Should be fine. Probably.

The thing is we as the audience who come into the story with a clear head can easily figure out the best, most sensible way to deal with the characters’ problems. But these problems affect the characters in (physical, physiological, psychological, emotional) ways most of us can’t immediately empathize with, which can make their bad decisions frustrating for us to see. We know it’s wrong. And when these characters have calmed down and healed, they’ll know that it’s wrong, too. If they’re not dicks, that is.

You know how it feels when you’re fighting with someone, and you know the best thing to do is to talk it out, but you just can’t bring yourself to? It makes things worse, right? And you’re frustrated, right? Unfortunately that’s just how humans are.

Even I let my emotions get the best of me when I judged the villagers’ actions back in chapter 68 hahaha (but I still think they’re awful).

It’s just my opinion tho.

And whooo everyone is officially here but Yamabuki (and Sakura and Tsukasa, but they’re bound to show up)! Catch up soon, my citrus child.

Lastly, I have the moral obligation to remind you that if akaoi’s confrontation ended up like this, imagine how hananene’s would be.

I’ll leave you to your deductions.

As always, feel free to discuss. Just ... don’t fight, onegaishimasu.

[eirenare]

TROS junior novelization: “Stay here. I’ll come back for you, sweetheart. I promise” + some post-TROS era thoughts

I’ve been writing a big ass post compilating all of the “Stay here. I’ll come back for you, sweetheart. I promise” throughout the books up until TROS and analyzing them, and I wanted to wait for my TROS junior novelization to arrive to keep building it and post it but I’m just too excited because THE VOICE IS BACK so I gotta talk at least about this

Some days ago I did a post (which you can check here) talking and speculating about the TROS junior novelization and how it was upon us, and that I could’ve misunderstood the voice in the TLJ junior novelization (I talked about the voice months ago, compiling the parts where it appears in the TLJ junior novelization, here), and funnily, I HAD misunderstood it but at the same time I HADN’T

The reason? Yes, the “Stay here. I’ll come back for you, sweetheart. I promise” was a coping mechanism of Rey... but there was more to it, something I started to suspect again after reading pre-TROS some more times a certain fragment from the TLJ junior novelization where “the voice” and the phrase were mentioned

The TROS junior novelization may look like it has lots of yikes for what I saw on some pages floating around, but look at THIS (analysis below):

“The Force surrounds you, Rey. Feel the Force flowing through you, Rey. Let it lift you. We stand by you, Rey.

Rey, the Force will be with you, always.

There were so many up there—so many stars, so many voices—Rey could not keep track. But there was a light inside her that shone brighter and spoke louder than all the others.

Stay here. I’ll come back for you, sweetheart. I promise.

She looked deep into that light and saw there were two. A binary star. And though the voice that said those words was her own, the love behind them was not.”

Okay, so, first of all: *unholy pterodactyl screeching of excitement*

For what it seems, each voice in the World Between Worlds (because yes, this is the WBW, the descriptions of this scene in the TROS non-junior novelization just leaves no room for doubt: “the battle above disappeared. Instead, Rey saw a perfect sky, vast with stars. Peaceful. Light-filled. It was like she was staring through a window to somewhere else, a place between places.” [...] “More voices came at her fast but gentle, as though she lay at a confluence of the Force, possibilities, futures and pasts all stretching away from her, or maybe leading toward her. The cosmos, time, energy, being—nothing was the way she’d thought it was.” [...] “Presences filled her awareness, some recent, some ancient, some still anchored to the living in a strange way. Rey didn’t understand. But she accepted.”) corresponds with a light... and when Rey peers into a light inside of her which is brighter and louder than all the others, she hears the phrase AND sees the light is A BINARY STAR

... So, a light brighter than the rest—which is fitting with Ben’s description in the TROS non-junior novelization, where it’s said that his light is so bright it helps Rey resist Palpatine’s influence: “Rey continued to approach. His power was intoxicating. She found herself raising her weapon, almost against her will. If not for the other presence in her mind, bright and shining with light, she would not have been able to resist him."

And that light inside her, brighter than the rest, being like a binary star—which fits as well, and only with, Rey and Ben being one in the Force

And apparently the words were hers, but the love behind them was not—so, Ben’s feelings echoing through their Dyad bond (and the WBW? Through both?) across time and space because a Dyad bond (just like the Force) cares not for such boundaries

Also if I remember well (need to find the pic or get a photo myself when the novel arrives), in the TROS junior novelization, when Ben and Rey are circling each other in the hangar of the Star Destroyer (on Kijimi) they’re described like in a way that looks pretty much like a binary star reference

I’ve been basking in all of this for days, even though thinking it’s Ben basically sends me back to the heavy feels lol

I mean, these words Rey repeated to herself for 14-15 years seem to be (it only makes sense to be) echos of Ben (of hope) from the future, and that helped her survive and cope with her own pain and despair... I’m not okay your honor

And there’s just no way it can be anyone else but Ben, given all of this and the contexts. I’ve read comments saying maybe it could refer to her parents or even Luke and Leia, but... it just doesn’t fit? The light is INSIDE Rey, brighter than the rest, and it’s a binary star. It’s simply Rey and another person, and that other person can only be Ben, her soulmate

The best thing is that they actually could use this to bring Ben back to Rey if they wanted, because they didn’t go very deep into the theme of the Dyad AND when the WBW is involved ANYTHING could happen (and it’s not as if these could be the only methods to bring someone back)

To quote the TFA junior novelization: “Rey did not want the owner of the voice to come back. She wanted the speaker to stay.”

Disney/Lucasfilm have a golden opportunity now to either cast the group again for a live-action or animated series, or a movie (or movies), fixing stuff. It’s not gonna make TROS go away nor fix it all, but there’s A LOT of stuff that could end up in a WAY better place than it ended up in TROS, and I’m pretty sure if they pick up some people that know what they’re doing and the premise is good, the cast would want to be back to fix the mess

If they can’t get the cast, just... do an animated series. Or, heck, if it could be done, both would be soooo amazing? (Although I don’t think we’d end up with both, if we end up with something it’ll be one or the other I think) A movie would be ideal to fix stuff, but a series (live-action or animated) would be ideal for something that could go on for a long time with new adventures. DLF could just attract back so many fans (including the new ones, which they should know already are vital to keep a franchise alive) that they’ve pushed away with TROS

I mean, look, if even my lizard brain can come up with viable ideas on how to fix so many mistakes from TROS, DLF certainly can, and there’s people with the talent AND care to do it, so... yeah

We’re getting some WBW mentions (and things that could be hints too) after TROS, other characters have been able to come back from worse and less vague deaths, we still don’t know what a Dyad bond is fully capable of *coughs in suspicions that The High Republic might show some of this and maybe serve as a preamble to Ben’s return*, a good post-TROS fix is absolutely needed, and DLF would make an obscene amount of money if they brought Ben back and did a post-TROS mending a lot of things, so right now I’m proceeding with cauting and keeping my feet on the ground just in case, but my hopes are kinda going up

[darkdevasofdestruction]

Fluffy Kittens ~ Jumin Han x Katrina, Elizabeth the 3rd x Delilah

(( This is a birthday gift for my bestie who got me into JoJo and Obey Me, and even fangirled with me over Mystic Messenger, and since Jumin was her fave, more or less because of how cute Elizabeth the 3rd was, while I was all over Saeyoung and Zen...This goes without saying...

Buuuuut, since I wanted to make this extra cute and fluffy, and also make it more intriguing, while also adding Delilah playing and cuddling with Elly...This is gonna be pretty personal for the both of us.

Happy Birthday, Deli, even though you hate it, I’m wishing you all the best, and I’m super happy that we’ve been friends for...5 years? Or so? And even though we don’t talk regularly, I’m always happy to spend time with you IRL and sing silly things, watch Osomatsu-san, do JoJo poses and voice act again <3

As well as that, I’m sure you’ll ace the Graduation exams, because you’re a smart bby, even though you undervalue yourself so much, and you’ll DEFINITELY get yourself into Vet Uni and we will see each other more often <3

Also, thank goodness, you literally look like the MC from MysMes, this makes it so much easier since I didn’t get the time to draw the You x Levi thingy I’ve had in mind for half a year ^^” ))

---

Katrina and Delilah, two Veterinary Medicine students, were walking towards the park, as they found it very relaxing to study together, outside, on a nice bench, while also looking at the dogs playing around.

However, today was much different, for they found a phone on the ground, and the chestnut haired girl picked it up, examining it, then turned to the older girl with a confused expression.

“What should we do about it?” she asked, handing her the phone. “This looks rather new, almost brand new. Let’s see what contacts it has, maybe we can call someone and tell them about the missed phone. If not...Let’s just leave it here or something, it’s not really my problem.” she shrugged, rushing to sit on the nearest bench, as she unlocked the phone. “It has no password?!” Delilah sat down next to her, hugging her arm and leaning on her side as she peered into the phone’s screen. “Well, I don’t have either, but I’m not a careless airhead...This looks brand new, it has no contacts...” the red haired girl muttered in confusions, frowning slightly. “Look, there’s this app installed, RFA. Maybe it’s like a Messenger or something?” she proposed, as her friend nodded. “Okay, let’s see...Ah, look, there are some people here. Jumin Han, Zen, Jaehee Kang, Yoosung and 707. I guess it’s worth a shot.” Katrina said, opening the chatroom option, only for the the screen to start looking glitchy, and a man called Unknown to message them instead.  “What’s going on...?” Deli asked with uncertainty, getting creeped out. “I say we throw this away, this is getting sketchy as hell.” Katrina frowned, leaning back on the bench, as the third party was giving them an address to give the phone to. “We shouldn’t. Who knows what could happen.” the red head shook her head. “But the person’s phone...This address is a pretty nice residential area, lots of young people live here. I even have University colleagues living there. What could go wrong?” Delilah convinced her friend, as she could only sigh, nod, and start walking in that direction. “If we live through this mess, I’m getting drunk.” Katrina chuckled, as she input the code and got inside the apartment.

The place was a little dusty, but it seemed pretty cozy, despite being a bit small. Even so, as soon as they stepped in, the glitchy background disappeared, and a long chat conversation that revealed all the chat members mentioned above...Until they realised we were there too.

Everyone was suspicious of us, and rightfully so, I’d say, but we were just as confused as they were.

Katrina: Look, so, uh...We don’t know who this ‘Rika’ person is, and frankly, we don’t care either. We found this phone on the ground and this RFA app was the only one installed. We wanted to call someone so we could return the device to the rightful owner, and my friend didn’t want to go to the police unless necessary. Well, I would’ve left it on the ground...But she’s an angel, anyway. To put it lightly, we’re as confused, if not, more confused than you are. Anyhow, we got messages to return this phone to this address, so there is that.

Somehow, Yoosung and Zen started talking besides the point, while Jumin tried to get them back on track and 707 was trying to hack and find out our identity.

Katrina: If it helps, we can send a selfie to show you that we are real people or something. On the other hand, if I guessed correctly, the pictures next to your names are your actual selfies.

Katrina: Ah, my friend wants to speak as well. I will write in Italics, while she’ll write in bold, to make things easier to differentiate.

Zen: Are you a woman?!

Yoosung: OMG! I guess only the picture will tell!

707: Zen. Be more serious, plz?

707: And wait a sec on the woman thing.

707: Looking it up.

Katrina: Wait no more. Lo’ and behold, the beauty and grace of a Devil and an Angel.

Urging Delilah to get closer, Katrina extended her arm out to take a selfie. She smirked mischievously, as her friend smiled softly, offering a peace sign.

Katrina: Satisfied your curiosities?

Then, they started introducing each other one by one, more or less forced by the other, and it was clear that this party was rather...Unique.

When Yoosung introduced himself, Delilah gasped and took the phone from her friend’s hand.

Katrina: Omg, Yoosung, I know you! You are in the same University as me! You are 2 years younger than me, but I saw you around! My name is Delilah, but I understand if you haven’t seen me, I’m not the most flashy around. Katrina also finished Vet Uni just last year, and she has been working at this super high tech clinic for a few years now!

Katrina: Woaw, Deli, fate sure fools around in mysterious ways. Oh well, Yoosung is still young, but you must be very hard-working and diligent if you got yourself in such a difficult University. I wish you luck for the years to come. 

Yoosung: O M G ! ! ! That’s SO cool! Maybe we can hang around some time! Or eat together at the cafeteria, if our schedules have some common breaks!

Zen: LOLOL Yoosung, you lucky guy.

707: I can confirm, they’re real cuties!

Katrina: Haha, thanks.

Seeing that this conversation eased the others a bit, Seven posted a picture of Jumin with his cat, and...

Katrina: OHMYGOD THAT CAT IS GORGEOUS OMG!!!!!

Jumin Han: Finally, someone who can appreciate beauty around this place.

Katrina: You should see Delilah, she’s gushing and squealing over how adorable Elizabeth is.

Katrina: Well, I have to agree anyway, she is very pretty.

Katrina: CAN I PLEASE PLAY WITH HER ONE DAY?!

Jumin Han: I wouldn’t let a stranger get anywhere close to my precious Elizabeth the 3rd.

Katrina: :C Okay...

Jumin Han: If you prove yourself to be a person of trust, and respect Elizabeth, unlike these guys here, then I may consider it.

Katrina: !!! Thanks, Jumin, you’re the best!

Katrina: Graciously spoken.

Katrina: Anyway, I’d appreciate it if you’d tell us what to do from now on, since we sincerely have no idea what to do. We would like to go back to the park and continue studying, but, uh...You don’t sound like bad people, so we wouldn’t want to inconvenience you either. We can’t remain to this place for too long, obviously.

As soon as Katrina wrote that, they started talking about this ‘V’ person, or the person in control of this RFA organisation, and while at it, Seven hacked into their social medias and said they were cute, while the others seemed shocked they were girls.

Then, V convinced the girls to help them host this charity party, and thinking it wouldn’t be too bad, at least for their CV, they agreed. What was rather sketchy for them was the address reveal...So they decided to stray away from that part, and not talk about it again.

Jumin Han: So, Katrina, Delilah, I will follow V’s decision. Will you join RFA?

Katrina: Sure. We don’t have anything to lose. We just have to respond and convince some guests to attend, and one the day of the party, be free the whole time and attend. You can count on us.

Katrina: It sounds like it would be fun!

It was all nice and dandy, unless they started talking about relationships, which made the red haired girl groan, roll her eyes and throw the phone on the desk, while slumping in the chair and leaning way back.

Katrina: I don’t get why you’re so upset over relationships. It’s no big deal, after all. It’s much better to cuddle cats anyway ^^

Katrina: I second that. Relationships are a drag, and humans are even worse. And selfish. I’m married to my work. Dating life ain’t for me, it seems. *shrug*

Zen: That...Sounds so sad ;;;

Jumin Han: I believe that’s rather sensible.

Zen: Shut up, you’re always fawned over by women!

Jumin Han: Women who only want me for my money.

Katrina: LOLOL, you’re sugar daddy material or what?

Zen: Lolololol Katrina you’re funny.

Yoosung: Jumin is the CEO of one of the wealthiest companies in Korea.

Katrina: Oh, great. Good for you.

707: Lololol this is funny. It’s like we’re talking to a female version of Jumin lololol.

Zen: Oh, God, no.

Katrina: I...Don’t know how I should react. Should I take it as a compliment?

Jumin Han: Yes.

Katrina: Very well then.

Katrina: Oh my God, imagine how happy Elizabeth is! Jumin has so much money to pamper and spoil her! What a happy baby!

707: Lololol yes, Elly is defo a happy cat!

Karina: I wish I could pamper Tsuki like you pamper Elizabeth too, Jumin ;;

Katrina: ...Same with I and Fifi, to be fair.

707: OMG YOU HAVE CATS TOO?!

Katrina: Yes, I do! Her name is Tsuki, she’s a British Shorthair, and she’s soooo cuteeee!!

Katrina:

Katrina: I agree. She’s adorable. And her meows are so high pitched and cute...

Katrina: Omg, Katrina made such a cute cat smile just now-

Katrina: DELILAH!!! >:C

Katrina: Hahaha so cute ^^

Katrina: Ahem. Well, as for my Fifi, she’s a dog. Bichon Havanese. Spoiled little baby. But, uh...I don’t think it matters much, seeing that you seem more interested in cats, which I can understand. Elizabeth and Tsuki are gorgeous.

Zen: I want to see something other than cats, please.

Katrina: Consider it done.

Katrina:

Katrina: She’s more photogenic than I’ll ever be lolol.

Katrina: Mood.

707: Omg I wanna play with both of them, at the same time!!

Jumin Han: Great, new animals for the abuser.

Zen: Fifi is so cute! Just like her owner~. *wink sticker*

Katrina: Haha, thanks, Zen. Likewise.

Yoosung: Zen is allergic to cats, and Jumin keeps talking about Elizabeth, so...It’s a mess.

Katrina: Lolol poor Zen. Better not get close to the clinic I work at, then.

Katrina: Awww, that’s so sad, Zen! Look!

Katrina:

Katrina: LOLOL DELILAH THAT’S EVIL HAHA-

Katrina : Hihi ^^ Everyone loves kitty toe beans!

Zen: I can already feel a sneeze-spree happening again.

Katrina: C’est la vie. Not everyone can enjoy the beauty of the world, unfortunately.

Jumin Han: 

Katrina: LOLOLOL Jumin, you’re so savage!

Jumin Han: Glad I could amuse you, Katrina.

Zen: Why are you all so evil...

Katrina: Yo, I’ve a question. 

Katrina: I know we don’t really know each other, but y’all seem like really nice people, so uhh...

Katrina: Even though you don’t trust us, I would like to go out to a pub with all of you.

Katrina: Maybe after the party, so you won’t be suspicious of us, or something.

Katrina: With so many unique personalities, it’s bound to be quite a successful hangout.

Katrina: That, and we don’t really have too many friends to hang out with lolol.

Katrina: ...That too. *shrug*

Yoosung: That’d be so cool! I’m in!

Zen: Omg, Katrina, so cute! I agree, it should be fun.

707: An opportunity to leave the house! Yes!

Jumin Han: Assistant Kang, make sure you keep that in our schedule.

Jaehee Kang: Very well...I agree it would be interesting, but...

Jaehee Kang: Can we really trust them so easily?

Jumin Han: Only time will tell.

Katrina: Well, it was nice talking/getting to know you all, but we have to go now. I’ve work tomorrow and Delilah has upcoming exams. Tschüss.

Katrina: Talk to you later! 

---

A few days after the whole chaos with the new phone, during one chill evening when the girls were watching a movie together, they saw Seven, Yoosung and Jumin chatting, so they decided to see what the talk was all about.

Jumin Han: Elizabeth the 3rd hasn’t been eating anything since she came back from Assistan Kang’s place.

Jumin Han: I have to call her.

Yoosung: Why don’t you call her rather than going online?

707: Since he can take care of things without hearing her voice?

Katrina: Jumin, if I may, perhaps Jaehee fed her too much. If you want, however, I have a few years of experience working in the clinic, I could check on her briefly, if you film her for me, or something.

Katrina: Although I would understand your skepticism if you don’t agree. It may be akin to home privacy invasion, since bits of the home may get captured in the video.

Jumin Han: You are very thorough in thinking of different possibilities.

707: Omg I’m jealous, I want a private video chat session with Elly too!

Jumin Han: Her name is Elizabeth the 3rd.

Jumin Han: Very well, Katrina, I will trust V’s judgement that you are safe. 

Katrina: Thank you for trusting me enough to allow such a thing.

Katrina: And omg, your chat bubble is a cat, that’s so cute! Can Seven do that for us too?!

707: I’ll see what I can do!

Katrina: Sweet, thanks. Jumin, call me when you’re free.

Jumin Han: Very well.

It wasn’t long after the chat that Katrina received a call from Jumin, and they both activated the video option, and from one end, a huge, beautiful, modern bedroom, and on huge bed, Jumin was holding Elizabeth in his lap.

On the other end of the video, a cozy little bedroom was shown, as Delilah was holding the phone, while Katrina was nowhere to be seen, which confused the man.

“Where is Katrina?” he asked, his eyebrow raised. “She went to get the laptop and cable, so we would see the video better. I hope you don’t mind that I’m here, but Katrina thought it would be educational to see her ask about the anamnesis and checking up parts, as I’m going to start volunteering at the clinic at the end of this University year too.” Delilah explained, a smile on her face as she saw the fluffy cat. “It’s fine, I don’t mind. Educating yourself is never bad.” Jumin nodded, as Katrina came in the picture and propped the phone on the laptop, so Jumin would see them, while they were looking at the laptop screen.

“Can you see us well, Jumin? We can see you perfectly.” Katrina asked, almost too professionally, as she fumbled with the laptop video settings. “Yes, it’s well enough.” he nodded simply. “Okay, all good. I will begin the anamnesis, which is asking the pet owner what they saw unusual, if they saw anything. That includes eating habits, dejections, unusual fur shedding, odd behaviours, unusual bad breath, odd eye movements, whining, crying, tail movements, if they seem exhausted or depressed, if their abdomen is flexed and so on.” Katrina explained, leaning closer to the screen to look at the cat. “Nothing unusual, except she hasn’t eaten since she came home from Assistant Kang. I even counted the hairs she shed, and it’s not unusual” Jumin explained, which made the red haired girl widen her eyes. “Damn, you’re the most diligent and attentive pet owner I’ve ever met in my life, including myself. You’re a wonder to work with. Well, the fur seems luscious, the claws look fine, so the keratin levels are good, her eyes are wide and nice, she seems to be following the toy perfectly, she has great reflexes, seems pretty playful, her nose is wet, her ears are up, her abdomen isn’t flexed...That only means one thing. Deli, can you guess?” Katrina looked at her friend with a warm smile. “She...Ate too much? That’s the only thing that I can think of.” she asked shyly, which earned a bright grin from her friend. “That’s exactly it! Jumin, as far as I understood from you, you’re treating Elizabeth with extremely strict measures, which means strict food portions, and only food that specialists deem is the best for her. Jaehee doesn’t have all that, so she gives her, for example, 2 cans of food, instead of 1 and a half, which means her stomach is fuller than usual, so her satiety levels are above the usual levels. Basically, she’s so full she can’t eat until everything is properly digested and she’s had her sport done.” Katrina explained everything thoroughly, as if it was one of Hercule Poirot’s detective novels. “Ohhh, that makes sense! That was pretty exciting!” Delilah clapped her hands excitedly. “I see, so it is as I suspected. Thank you for confirming my theory. Sorry for taking your time with this.” Jumin said, making the girl raise her eyebrows in surprise. “I always have time for friends.” Katrina blurted without realising. “Friends...Huh? I thought people called their peers ‘Friends’ when they realised they can fully trust them.” Jumin asked, almost as if he was interrogating. “...I, uh...I see everyone from the RFA as friends. That’s just that, don’t think too much about it.” Katrina dismissed it quickly. “Very well, I won’t. The party is in 4 days, are you ready for it?” he asked, making both of them widen their eyes in shock. “...I think we are. Just...We need to look for an outfit.” Delilah scratched the back of her neck awkwardly. “We’ve been so busy with work and exams, and the party was announced so suddenly...Well, we were kinda put on the spot. We’ll go look around tomorrow. Hope we find something nice and cheap enough to afford.” Katrina shrugged, looking away from the phone, as if there was something much more interesting she was seeing. “It’s good to be prepared in advance, but I can see why you’d have difficulty with things like this, considering your positions.” he nodded, understandingly. “We appreciate that. Well...Even if we haven’t been around for long, we truly hope we can help make this party great. We are aware that it won’t be as successful or grandiose as the ones with Rika were, but...We will try our best to get close to that.” Katrina spoke again. “Were you trained in diplomatic speech? Because I can sense that. Not many people can do that.” Jumin asked again, as Elizabeth jumped off from his lap, to roll around on the bed. “Awwww, she’s so cute!” Delilah gushed over the adorable creature. “I can’t say I was trained, I just picked it up. Add that to the fact that I have to be polite with everyone, and there you have it. Is this what you call a professional defect?” Kat snorted in mock amusement. “Perhaps it is. Some tend to call me snobby for always being formal.” Jumin said as a matter of fact. “What a coincidence...People hate me for being cold and formal too. Que drôle.”  she smirked, speaking in a softer, almost self-deprecating tone. “That’s how people can be. They must always hate on something. I suppose that’s why Zen hates me.” Jumin spoke in a low voice. “Sorry, Jumin, but not everyone can be a patrician like you. Most of us are plebeians working our way up.” Katrina laughed softly at her stupid joke. “Every vassal can become a Lord.” Jumin pointed out, making the red head snap her head to him, with a challenging smirk. “Said the monarch.” she shot back with ease. “I wouldn’t say I’m a Monarch, that would be the president. I would, however, be a Lord, I believe.” Jumin retorted just as well. “And I would be nothing more than an unfree slave, working her way to buy her freedom.” she spoke with a smug expression. “And what would that imply?” he asked, almost with piqued curiosity. “Building our own clinic. It’s been our dream for a long time. To be in the same University, to work together, to own a clinic together and just...Live our life and be happy. If we achieve that, we will be free.” she explained, a much softer expression on her face. “I see. It’s always refreshing hearing other people speak about their ambitions and dreams of the future. Much better than the usual lies business people throw at you. Thank you for today Katrina, Delilah, I must go for now. Have a nice evening.” Jumin thanked them with a small smile, as he hung up. “...Thanks for today too, Jumin. Take care.” Katrina murmured, despite the call already having ended. “He likes you. At least, more than some others. And you’re kinda alike in some ways, I mean...I think he and you are constantly facepalming whenever you’re talking to idiots, and now both of you finally managed to run into a person with the same kind of maturity and intelligence as the other.” Delilah explained, making her friend become slightly flustered and confused. “You think so? Well, I wouldn’t mind. Jumin seems smart and level-headed enough...But I don’t know. I don’t think...Uh...We’ll see at the party, I guess. It should be fun. If anything happens, you get custody of Elly the 3rd.” Kat chuckled nervously at her friend’s teasing, before winking at her. “Oh, yes!” she cheered in glee.

---

Two days later, however, the girls couldn’t go dress-shopping, as an emergency that nobody could ever even think to expect happened, which made the red haired girl’s whole life collapse on her, crushing her.

As she was ready to go to work for the morning shift, Fifi, her dog, was in a corner, barely moving, looking terrible and there were bits of blood on the ground around her.

Panicking, Katrina ordered the first Uber and rushed to the clinic, as they have amazing equipment, so she could examine her dog, only to find that she has a lymphoma and a tumour on her spleen, which made the girl curse herself for not realising sooner.

She ran to the clinic’s owner, begging her to let her operate on her dog and have someone assist and help her...

Only for her to refuse, unless she gets a tremendous amount of money to compensate, the same amount of money that any customer is forced to pay...

Why couldn’t they just let her do it?!

She was pissed off.

She was desperate.

She went back to the operation room, hugging her dog, and taking out her phone, she took a deep breath and called the only person who could be able to help her.

“Hello? Katrina, what is it, did you need anything?” Jumin asked in the same passive voice as usual. “Jumin, I...I...I need your help. I know, it’s going to sound horrible, and I don’t want you to think that I want to use you or anything, but...But I need some money to perform surgery on Fifi. I begged the clinic’s head to let me do it, that I would pay for it over time...I-I even told her that she could give me no salary for as long as I pay my debt, but she wouldn’t agree. I...I don’t know what to do, Jumin. I have some money that I managed to save, but this...This is more than I could dream of sparing. And if I somehow manage to scrape the money from God knows where, I won’t be able to pay the rent or help Delilah with University pays and...And I...I don’t know what to do...” Katrina slid down one of the cabinets in the surgery room, looking at her dog on the surgery table, that looked back at her, crying. “...I understand this is a difficult situation to be in, but you have to understand that, even though V trusts you, I can’t just throw around so much money to a total stranger that I have never met, especially if it’s the company’s money and it will have to be justified.” Jumin sighed, speaking in a low, almost business-like voice. “JUMIN, I’M BEGGING YOU, I WILL DO ANYTHING FOR THIS! If you want to see me in person, I will give you the clinic’s address, if you want me to pay you back, I’ll resign from the clinic and work for you 24/7 until I pay my debt, I-I-I...I don’t know, I will do anything you want, ANYTHING, just PLEASE, help me out, fast, because she has cancer and a spleen tumour and if I don’t operate today, and start chemotherapy. I don’t know how long she’ll have.” Katrina started crying on the phone, and her dog started whining softly in front of her. “Don’t cry on the phone, it’s hard to understand what you’re saying. Text me the address and I’ll come examine the situation, and only then I will debate whether to give you the money or not, is that fair?” he asked, making the girl grin and clutch her blouse. “Yes, Gods, yes, it’s perfect! More than perfect! Thank you so much, Jumin, I owe you my life forever. I just texted you the address, I will be waiting for you. Please, please, PLEASE come as soon as you can.” she begged him once again. “Don’t thank me yet, I haven’t given you the money yet.” Jumin spoke, a bit unsure of his words. “Doesn’t matter. You’re willing to go out of your way to help, and that’s more than enough. I truly appreciate it, Jumin. I’ll go try to beg the chief again. See you.” she hung up, standing up and kissing Fifi on her head softly. “I’ll save you today, baby. I promise.”

The girl jolted on her feet, going to the head of the clinic to try to beg her again, hoping to persuade her, at least until Jumin arrives, but she wasn’t able to stop the river of tears going down her face.

“Why can’t you just let me do it?! I’m not going to disappear without paying you, but it’s an enormous sum of money, I can’t just come up with it by snapping my fingers, and she’ll die if I don’t start acting soon! Do you really care so little for an animal’s life?!” she tried her best not scream her frustrations away, but the chief had none of it. “This is a business, not a charity party, Katrina! We need money to continue this place, every little coin matters!” the boss tried to defend herself. “But I’ve been your employee for years and I said I’ll give you back all the money! Hell, I told you to stop paying me until I’ve repaid the debt! What more can I do to let me save my dog?!” she cried out, feeling her heart drop, not hearing the door opening. “That’s exactly why! You’re just a mere employee, not THE boss! I AM the boss, I AM the rule here, and I’m telling you that if you still wish to have a place to work at, then shut your mouth and use the little money you have to put down your dog. Just a piece of advice.” the woman in front of her talked so harshly, that it made the girl’s jaw hit the floor in disbelief. “I don’t believe that’s how a proper employer should speak to her employees.” a low, judging voice came from the door of the clinic, revealing the brunet man walking inside, like a guardian angel. “J-Jumin...!” Katrina could only stare at him, wide-eyed from shock and emotions, as her emerald green eyes were swimming in a pool of mixed feelings and frustration. “By how the situation unfolded in front of me, I can see that your emotions were genuine on the phone, Katrina. I’m glad I put money on this card, it’s obvious that your employer is subpar to you in every way possible, and it’s a pity that you have to downgrade your skills to somehow like this...” Jumin shook his head, taking out a blue card, making the girl’s bottom lip quiver and throwing herself at him, hugging him with all the strength she had in her little body. “Thank you so much, Jumin. I owe you everything. I owe you my life. You’re a literal angel, Thank you so much for saving Fifi’s life.” her fingers were clutching the back of his blazer, which made the man get stunned for a few seconds from the unexpected action. “If you’re going to perform surgery right away, I’d like to watch. I want to see what happens with my money.” he cleared his throat, trying to make the girl stop being overly emotional. “If he gets in the operation room with you, I’m not giving you another assistant.” the boss snatched the credit card, snapping her head to the side. “Oh, screw you, you heartless bitch!” Katrina growled, shoving aside the woman in front of her and dragging Jumin tot he operation room. “It’s fine...I can do it. I can do it on my own. It’s not that hard. I can do it.” she muttered to herself, taking a few deep breaths before prepping for the surgery. “You’ve never done it before, have you?” Jumin took off his blazer, rolling up the sleeves of his white shirt and leaning on the wall to get a good look at the whining dog. “...I’ve only ever assisted a few times, but at least I know what has to be done.” she ruffled her hair a bit, before putting it in a high ponytail and putting the dog hooked to anaesthesis. “She’s going to fire you when you’re done here.” Jumin said as a matter of fact as the girl started the surgery. “...I’d have resigned anyway, as soon as I found another place that would hire me. There’s one thing to compromise and stomp on your pride to maintain a job or gain a benefit...But there’s another to go completely against your principles and convictions and let someone humiliate you like that. I’m a human, not a martyr and I have no reason to accept being treated that way. No amount of money or benefits can buy me.” she ranted a bit irritated from the previous encounter, as she focused on removing the tumour. “That’s admirable, if true. Not many people can say that. Trust me, if you work in the same field as me, you’d be more aware of that.” Jumin replied after a few minutes. “If you came here, I think you know I’m speaking the truth, and you just needed confirmation. Rational people are like that. They need proof to back up their reasoning.” she shot back, carefully putting the tumour on a plate and beginning to sew the incision, only for the anaesthesia levels to go down, and the breathing and pulse rates were going down, which freaked out the girl, who dropped the utensils to start fumbling with the tech and getting some medicine to keep up the rates to a normal level. “Should I call for-...” Jumin got up, trying to help, but the girl was much faster. “Yes, you can help. Get here and make sure the numbers here are between parameters. I will finish this up so no more damage will take place.” she dragged the man, instructing him quickly, but well explained, as she worked around the incision, getting rid of the additional bleeding and finally successfully sewing up the wound. “Are you sure you don’t wanna be a doctor or something? You have great reactions and don’t panic under pressure. You were amazing, Jumin.” she took off her mask, throwing away the gloves and slid down the cabinet, looking exhausted after the long procedure. “You explained well what I should do. A great leader makes the followers perform well. You will be great when you open your clinic, and I’m sure Delilah is going to learn a lot from you.” he said, sitting down next to her. “Thank you, Jumin. Your words mean the world for me. Thank you for saving Fifi...I owe you the world...Because she is my world.” Kat rested her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes. “If you want to owe me, how about you become Elizabeth’s private doctor. I’m sure Delilah would be happy to have an excuse to stay around her more often.” Jumin chuckled, as the girl raised her head, cocking an eyebrow up in shock. “I’ve already wasted enough of your money, I couldn’t possibly impose so much on you and have you pay me or something. Besides, I...Uh...I don’t want to end up for you the same as Jaehee. I enjoy your company and our interactions...I wouldn’t want that to change in a more professional way or something, so bad that you can’t listen to my voice or try to avoid or run away from me.” the girl sighed, hanging her head. “You said you don’t want to be an unfree slave anymore and that you’re going to work your way up. If you want to get rid of the title of Vassal, then you could become a Lord’s Lady and-” Jumin started talking, but he was quickly cut off again. “No. If you want me to be your girlfriend, I won’t refuse, but that means that I will never take money from you. It’s either romantic or professional, you choose. But if you’re that confident in my skills as a doctor, then you should know that both I and Delilah are going to treat her anyway, so you won’t really need a private doctor or anything.” she spoke a bit colder than usual, not even realising. “I see. You said you won’t be bought, and you stay true to your words...Maybe a bit too much. It’s rather unusual for me to meet a woman like you, who’s not, as Luciel would call, a...Gold digger. But I’m glad I met you. You are a strong and sensible woman with a gentle heart and a fire passion to do what’s right and save as many lives as humanely possible, and I admire that about you.” he turned his head to her, who could only look in surprise at him. “...Nobody I’ve dated...Or met...Ever said such nice things about me. Katrina, you’re so cold, Katrina, you’re so heartless, Katrina, why do you act like a hedgehog around me, Katrina, why do you never have time for me, Katrina, why do you love those animals more than me. Katrina, Katrina, Katrina, you’re such a goddamn failure as a girlfriend. You say this is unusual for you, but this is equally unusual for me as well.” she scratched the back of her neck awkwardly, looking away. “Then I suppose we can figure this out together, if you want. I believe we have quite a few misconceptions to clear out for each other.” he smiled softly, putting his arm around her, bringing her closer to his side. “Wanna go for a quick coffee or something? There’s this pretty nice cafe close to my home. Nothing extravagant or expensive...Just a small, little vintage cafe with a nice and calming atmosphere.” leaning in, she cuddled to him, having a tranquil smile as well. “Doesn’t sound too bad.” Jumin nodded softly. “Oh, and...I’m paying. No arguing here.” she said firmly, making the man chuckle, agreeing nonethless.

---

A year passed, they had other RFA charity parties, they hung out a lot of times, all of them, together, Delilah became Elizabeth’s private doctor, which obviously meant that her and Tsuki would hang around Jumin’s place for play dates with Elly under ‘professional’ pretextes, much to Katrina’s annoyance, Jumin made sure to gather fund for her dream clinic so both girls could pursue their dreams, and made sure to include animal charities and animal-saving related guests to all the RFA parties, and things overall seemed so much simpler and balanced than ever before.

One beautiful Saturday, Jumin and Kat were cuddled together in bed, both of them doing some light reading, as the door was opened and Delilah’s gentle smile greeted them.

“Hello, Doctor Delilah.” Jumin greeted the girl playfully, as she blushed lightly from happiness. “Hello, Jumin!...Awww, Elly, you’re cuddled with your toy, you’re so cute!!” the girl cooed at the adorable white feline. “I’m really happy that her love for cats got her to pursue her dreams and get to this point where she’s surrounded by cats everywhere she looks.” Kat looked over to her friend with a side smile. 

  “I and Katrina are going to leave next week on a business trip. I think it will be no problem if Elizabeth was to stay over at yours, am I right?” he asked, and seeing as the girl’s eyes started sparkling with glee. “Any time! She’s a wonder to have over, and Tsuki is always happy to play with her!” she replied, hugging the cat, as Elly put her paw on her nose softly, melting the girl’s heart. “Great to hear. And you, Doctor Kat? What are meow going to do with Fifi?” Jumin nudged her with his usual subtle playfulness. “I’d do anything to hear you meow more often, it’s adorable. Maybe purr a bit too...I’ll leave Fifi to Jaehee. She doesn’t shed hair like Elizabeth does, and Jaehee needs some leisure walks too.” the red haired girl teased as she started softly scratched him under the chin. “Meow.” Jumin did a cute cat and small cat smile, burying his face in the crook of her neck, purring softly. “I was right...Meow are adorable.” the girl giggled in amusement, cuddling closer to him, “As are you.”

[murfeelee]

Alright, I’ve been talking about The Witcher TV show for months and months, and now I’ve FINALLY seen it.

I've skimmed through the books here and there, but really I’m a diehard fan of the video games, particularly The Witcher 3 (I’ve played TW1 and TW2 as well). Because of all the hype, attention and love the TW3 got over the years, with even Henry Cavill being a major fan of the video games, Netflix went and made this tv show, with Cavill as Geralt of Rivia, The Witcher.

MY THOUGHTS

It was GOOD! \(^0^)/ I really liked it!

Alright, don’t get excited, I think this show had some serious problems. But we’ll start with the good before getting to the bad and the ugly.

THE GOOD

THE ACTING

Everyone was top notch, and did a fantastic job. I freaking LOVE Grandma Calanthe, omg. I wanted more of her, and Mama Tissaia, and the different sorceresses (when Sodden started I was like hooo boy, I know how this goes; the finale is WORTH the price of admission, folks).

I even liked Eclipse-Princess (her name escapes me, my bad; I was calling her Arya 2.0 in my head). Don’t think I effing missed how they threw in a nod to the Eclipse Princess from Blood & Wine; that was awesome, featuring the Black Sun “curse” again.

I already knew I was gonna HAVE to tune in to see Yennefer’s story, and it was every bit as superb as I suspected it would be. Dare I say it was THE most interesting story arc of the three? Caught me tearing up a few times. I still don’t see book/game/Polish Yennefer with her, but she did a GREAT job, nonetheless--her emotions and delivery and everything was excellent.

She sounds so dang young though, which throws me off with the timeline, cuz when exactly does Yenn’s story take place in all of this? It’s hard to match her with the more...well....matronly/mature persona we’re more familiar with in the games. But I guess she develops that over time, after getting to raise Ciri. Though this does put in better perspective why she was so mean to Ciri at first, calling her ugly and everything. She wanted a child so badly, and Geralt just...gets one by surprise, and she was feeling bitter, I see it now.

THE ACTION

And I gotta give it to Cavill. Boy can MOVE. My favorite moments with Cavill were when he was sword fighting; whoever choreographed all that needs a frikkin award. I imagined the Butcher of Blaviken just tearing up mofos, and that’s exactly what we got. And he was WERKING them pants! XD

Except we never really saw my favorite sign, Igni. Oh well. And I hate that he doesn’t have cat eyes. And the Toxicity ISTG makes him look like a vampire and makes no effing sense, but whatevs.

And sometimes he was sounding WAY too Batman or demonic with this really deep and gravelly voice -- I appreciate that he was trying to give us that gruff and sandpaper dry video game Geralt, but when they’d make him yell or be mad I was like JFC NOT TODAY SATAN. But an attempt was made, and I appreciate it. ^_^ He was fine for the most part. More than fine, even. As I said, the acting & action was great, and they played to Cavill’s strengths.

THE SPECIAL EFFECTS

I also thought the CGI was fine--not the best, no, but I’ve seen way worse in shows with bigger budgets. The dragons...eh.... And that kikimore.... Well, I’m just remembering the Polish tv show, the Hexer--BIG improvement. Trust me. O_O The practical effects were excellent. Even though they messed around A LOT with the Striga plot from TW1, and what it looked like, I did like that they stayed pretty faithful to the fight. 

THE STORIES & CHARACTERS

IMO, the best episode was E04, with Pavetta & Duny. It was just REALLY well done, and the one I was LEAST expecting. My favorite episode was E06, with the dragon, because of course. Reminded me of Hercules the Legendary Journeys, IDKY. The finale was really good, too; I love the sorceresses and all the magic. And E07 when all the plots and flashbacks come together was great.

And now for MY COMPLAINTS

THE BAD

#1) OMG WTF WAS UP WITH THE TIMELINE?

I feel BAD for anyone who’s watching this show fresh, who’s never played the games, read the books, seen the Polish Hexer tv show, played Gwent, or anything related to the Witcher world.

I was thrown off several times, as they shot from Ciri running for her life or Geralt fighting a Striga in the present time; to Yennefer learning magic in the past. Geralt & Dandelion go on adventures Shrek & Donkey style--I ASSUMED in the present, with the Sylvan, Djinn & Dragon, until an episode or two later they’re in Cintra together in the PAST, and Ciri’s not even born yet, and we’re seeing a drunk Ermion/Mousesack and young Crach an Craite (I squeed, my dad~!! His accent was on point!), and Ciri’s mom and grandma. (And WOW, the lady they got to play the mom looks just like the actress playing Ciri--are they related?)

And they do this over and over again over the episodes--present day with Ciri, eff knows when with Geralt or Yennefer. Especially since you know from the books/games that they’re both almost 100 years old. Yenn keeps throwing out “it’s been decades“ this and “years” that. But W H E N though!?!

I mean, I could follow along, sure, but they REALLY needed to make it clearer SOONER for people who have NO idea who TF these people or which kingdoms are which, that some things are happening YEARS apart from each other. Pay attention to how many times GoT shoved those maps of Westeros and Essos in our faces. Or how different shows use color filters for flashbacks or something. Properly situate the audience in time AND space--we’re not Cirilla, who can travel willy nilly between both. They bounced back and forward between past and present with the toss of a frikkin coin.

And speaking of coins...

#2) THE MUSIC WAS...Well.

Oh, Dandelion. XD

Anyone who knows me knows I fangirl HARD over the Witcher video game OSTs. And unfortunately, the music on the tv show was just...alright. :\ And for a franchise so closely connected to iconic music like the band Percival, it’s a crime against nature that the tv show never had a single track that made me go YES. Give it up for POLAND. The end credits song is okay, but I only started getting into it at like Episode 6, soooo... :\

And no, I didn’t like Toss A Coin to Your Witcher in this show. It didn’t sound like part of this medievalesque universe AT ALL, but something kinda pop/country, aimed at I don’t even know who. Sure, the dude playing Dandelion can sing. But so can Ed Sheeran, and when GoT got him to sing on the show, he sure AF didn’t bust out with the next Billboard Top 40 on us in the middle of nowhere.

#3) THE CHARACTER BONDING?

The acting was top notch...it was the plot/writing I didn’t like. Or rather, the relationships between the characters. I felt more for Yennefer & Istredd, and Geralt & Roach, and Ciri & the Elf boy (and her grandma), and even Pavetta & effing Duny/Emhyr (that royal piece of sh!te) than I did for any other characters on this whole show. And that’s a bit of a problem.

First off, I HATED how they made it seem that TEENAGED Ciri had no idea who TF Geralt was. TV Ciri’s gotta be what? 15? Geralt said something about it having been 12 years since Pavetta & Duny, but even that’s too old. Book!Ciri met Geralt IN the Brokilon or whatever forest with all the water drinking and the dryad queen and mess.

They were already obsessed with each other before the fall of Cintra even happened! Ciri was like 10 already when Geralt took Ciri to Kaer Morhen to start her Witcher training, but this girl on the show’s way older, and effing clueless. They don’t even meet til the final few SECONDS, wtf!! It’s just Destiny~! Destiny~! Child of Surprise, but we never even have a scene together~! Destiny~!

Speaking of children, we have Yennefer and Geralt, which was better, but again, WOAH with the pacing. I felt effing BAD for Istredd! :( I don’t really GET why Geralt & Yenn fell so hard for each other; I don’t really feel that connection. Geralt had just as much bonding time with that eclipse-princess! They only had the Djinn episode, really, and by the end of the Dragon episode it was already over!

I mean, yeah, in the books/game they have A LOT of ups and downs, but come on; we’ve already wasted so much time on Geralt & Triss (that homewrecking wench, I’m glad her airtime was minimal), and I just want more BAMF battle couple parents Geralt & Yenn raising Ciri already! >_<

Same with Geralt & Dandelion. Geralt’s kinda mean to him, which is fair; Geralt hates everyone. But I don’t feel where they’re friends at all, and they part at the end of the season on NOT great terms. I kinda feel Geralt doesn’t really like Dandelion at all. :( Even with the whole comedic relief Shrek schtick,

THE UGLY

#4) THE LENGTH

I dunno what’s up with all the 8 episode miniseries lately (GoT, Mandalorian, Witcher, etc), but it REALLY isn’t enough to really flesh out a story. Especially not one as convoluted as The Witcher, AKA the GoT of Poland.

Again, I REALLY feel for the casuals watching, who probably don’t know what the Conjunction of Spheres Istredd keeps referring to is, or what exactly a Witcher is, or why Ciri’s so dang special -- was Lara Dorren or the Elder Blood ever even MENTIONED???

We know Yenn’s got elf blood, but it’s waaaay more than that with Ciri -- though I don’t think they mentioned her elf blood, either, just that Calanthe’s grandmother or someone had their Banshee powers before Pavetta & Ciri.

BTW, wtf with Ermion/Mousesack? That’s gotta be a red herring or something. Cuz we know this dude’s old AF and thriving in Skellige, sooo....? TF. Why the Doppler? Why?

TBH this felt like Season 1A, if anything. I don’t feel the plot really progressed much at all, other than us getting Yennefer’s story. Ciri & Geralt finally meet (cliffhanger supreme right there), but jfc this felt like a prequel -- so much of the season was dedicated to backtracking us in a roundabout way up to the fall of Cintra, then skipping ahead to the Battle at Sodden Hill.

And why the heck did they wait so long to get to get to Vigelfortz!? That’s what I was sitting here WAITING for! You mean I gotta wait for Season TWO to see my Hanse in full force!? :( URGH. Reeeeeeeegiiiiiiiis~! :(

Maybe cut out some of the unnecessary nudity every frikkin where and tell the full frikkin story, hmm? (Yenn’s boobs look great, we got it the first 5 times. Meanwhile these cowards won’t even have a dude’s left testicle be shown on screen, but whatever.)

So yeah, those are my 4 biggest complaints.

Well, and that wig’s hard AF hair line, jfc.(I was DYING during the Pavetta & Duny scene, when Cavill was holding on to that wig for dear life. XD XD)

Otherwise, I really liked the show! B+!

[truthaliar]

aiiiiiiight so here’s a post about mental health representation in media; or in other words: my mental health and apparently, the umbrella academy.

ps i am in no way, shape or form a mental health professional - this is just retelling an experience i had

sooo okay i was talking to my therapist. i’m gonna paraphrase this but basically she was like ‘do you watch umbrella academy’ and i was like ‘yea my friends are trying to figure out who is who in my friend group’ and it basically went ‘oh did they put you as diego? good, let’s talk about your hero complex.’ 

now to clarify i’m not typically like super open about it, but i have ptsd & anxiety. my panic disorder is mostly controlled at this point (ie i can now pinpoint triggers). a few weeks ago i finally told my mom i had ptsd after several years and she just responded, ‘i know.’

anyway, i ended up learning that there’s peer reviewed articles about umbrella academy in psychiatric journals, highlighting the show’s potential as a mental health tool. also i never really saw myself in any of tua characters but vaguely recognized my obsession w/ justice in diego, and also saw myself in five’s caffeine addiction. so the fact that a medical person... saw diego - weirds me out a little. more on that in a sec.

so my therapist, i guess let’s call her fran, said that diego’s behavior & habits are tied to his inability to introspect and manage his own emotions so he externalizes & fixates on justice, this external thing that has clear, logical right & wrong, something that he can take into his own hands bc he feels that the system is broken. it’s easier for him to focus on that than on fixing himself.

to be clear she said it’s fairly common for ppl in diff branches of medicine to feel this way to a degree; you’re trained to be more detached from your emotions so it’s not unusual to (slightly-moderately) go either the diego route or the luther route if you begin to lose it (and hopefully not the five route cuz that’s a whole diff story). of course these are extremes (and she said i have parallels to diego, not that i have anywhere near his level of hero complex)

even still when she said that -- it hit different. like when my friends cast each other, it’s something we’ve been doing for years right? it’s just fun, and yea you often poke fun at yourself/each other in the process -- but it’s not the same as a professional saying ‘look at this extreme characterization of what could happen if you don’t take a step back‘. honestly my response was, ‘wow that doesn’t seem healthy.’

so the diego route is feeling like the system has failed you. therefore you want to act against or destroy the system that let you down, that didn’t care about you, that didn’t nurture you, and build something better -- on your own because the whole damn thing is unjust and it isn’t fair. the emotion you use to cope with is anger. and to build a new system you need people to back you. to get people to back you, you need to save them. kill the system, fix the broken. you might think you’re doing it on your own, but your success is still contingent on there being problems to solve.

the luther route -- based on my understanding bc she didn’t think i did this -- is more adhering yourself to the system and saying ‘good or bad, it’s by wedding myself to the system through which i will succeed, and i must be important because the system let me in to begin with.’

ofc any person can begin to display traits of any of those characters or of multiple characters, and to repeat they’re all in rough shape. and just bc she implied those are the two fairly common ways to feel in doesn’t mean you can’t be a klaus or a vanya or an allison or whoever you see similarities with.. like that’s the point. everyone responds to trauma differently. and it’s also a one-size fits all. she didn’t mean to and i do not mean to represent the siblings as perfect representations -- only that it does happen to match my behavior.

fran told me that to snap out of the hero complex, at least sometimes, you have to be able to separate yourself from the injustice that surrounds you n understand that people aren’t helpless and you are not here to save everyone. bc first of all - that’s a lot of fuckin’ work and second of all - that’s kinda rude to assume that people can’t fix their own problems. and unless they ask us for help, it’s our job to let them. after all, i’d be pissed if someone thought i needed saving.

so then comes the part i struggle with which is detaching yourself from the work you inevitably choose that focuses on solving problems. i’m shit at it; i’m always fucking problem-solving. i can’t turn it off. i can’t make it stop. and it carries over from my youth bc i felt like i was the only person that could see the solutions to the very real problems in my life. like diego, i’d zoom in and fixate (helloooo jfk plotline) and try to do something about it. turns out i got pretty good at this, and that spurred my career path. i never wanted to see myself as the victim. ever. even after i endured certain traumas that i don’t want to disclose. in my mind, i was never broken. the situations were just injust; and i couldn’t fix... the people, but maybe i could fix the situations.

so what did justice look like to me? i love my family, so i mostly focused on my career - something i could undoubtedly shape on my own. developed a list of people whose jobs i wanted to steal. out of revenge, feeling i could bring justice to the field by bringing my mindset to the table. sound vaguely familiar?

also probably not the healthiest fictional character to relate to. worse still, even arya was able to let go of her vindictive streak at the end of the day (at least in the show) -- something i am still working on. (also probably a good time for a reminder that the plan is to get good enough in my field to ‘steal jobs’ so that i can mold the field into what i want it to be, not actually physically hurt people). i did take up fencing tho.

soooo now it’s 2020. and i’m 28. and something important happened.

i was talking with my mentor and as we were chatting i realized that there is a job out there that i want. and not because i want to steal it out of a sense of ‘revenge’ -- but because i really like that person’s job. that i could see myself in that position because i love what it entails. and i think it’s the first time i ever saw that.

in eight months of constant therapy, i’ve realized that i do have a dream vet school; i do have a dream job; that my life is more than just trying to fix the world.

complexes don’t go away overnight and i kept things purposely vague - i’ll always have a little bit of ‘save the world’ in me.

but i can now say that tech school finishes in 10 months. it’ll be over in less than a year. i submit my vet school app in a week, with a much more refined & steady focus. i’m kind of ready to pursue happiness again. i’m much more confident that i’ll get where i want to be.

and whatever ya know? i’ll figure it out as i go

but tada there’s the story of my therapist seeing me in diego hargreeves, what the fuck.

[twdeadfanfic]

It’s a dog’s life Pt.4

*Summary: The reader is new and alone at the quarry’s camp, the only one she has is her dog, who seems to be best friends with Daryl Dixon, a not so friendly man, but that friendship will bring the reader closer to Daryl, finding that there’s more to Daryl than what you can see at first glance…besides, he’s pretty hot at first glance, isn’t him?

*Slow burn, both reader and Daryl’s pov, violence and language twd style.Follows the events of season 1 and 2.

*3526 words

*Pairing: Daryl Dixon x Reader

Chapters: 4/14

Last chapter, Daryl and the reader had a fight after he lost Merle in Atlanta. They made up, though, and are now on their way to the CDC.

I loved writing this chapter, so, so much...so I hope you’ll love it too!

*Link to my masterlist with my other works can be found on the description of this blog. I’m sorry for the inconvenience, but tumblr doesn’t show posts with links in the tags.

.......................................................................

The CDC wasn’t what you’d been expecting, though you weren’t sure of what had you been expecting. It was some sort of subterranean lab with only a man in it, who almost let you all be eaten by walkers outside without opening the doors.

That doctor was a strange, somber guy, but he was taking you in, the place seemed secure, with bedrooms and all, and there was plenty of food and drinks. It didn’t take you all long to celebrate your luck while having a big dinner.

You were stuffing yourself with as much food as you think you could handle. One part of you thought you should be saving food, you’ll be needing it, but other part tell you to eat as much as you could cos you never knew when you’d have another chance. Cole was lying down on the floor after having stuffed himself with food too.

“Fat.” You told him fondly.

Everyone was laughing, eating, drinking…it felt strange but the more you drank, the more relaxed you felt, and the more you were enjoying it. Glenn seemed quite drunk and you laughed aloud as Daryl loudly teased him. You looked at Daryl, sat down next to you, and grinned, your stomach doing a funny thing when he grinned back. He had had his fair share of alcohol too, drinking straight from the bottle, didn’t even bother to take a glass.

He could be an asshole but damn, wasn’t he hot. You bit your lip as you checked him out, didn’t even bother trying to hide it. It’d be a damn shame to finally have a real bed and having to spend the night alone.

“Hey, Dixon!” You nudged his leg with your foot under the table. “You’re a damn show off, you know that?”

“What?” He raised an eyebrow at you, flinching his leg away when you rubbed it with your ankle.

“I bet you rip the sleeves of your shirts so you can show off those muscly arms.” You giggled drunkenly. “I’m not complaining though, they’re quite a thing to look at, actually, thank you.” You giggled again.

“You’re drunk, girl.” He stammered, looking at you like if you were crazy.

“Yes, but I know what I’m saying.” You reached out to take the bottle of booze from his hand, slowly brushing your fingers over his. “You got quite the eyes too when you’re not frowning, you know?”

Those blue eyes were now wide as they looked at you as if he didn’t know what had gotten into you. You leaned back in your chair, taking a long sip while you looked at him. He opened his mouth but said nothing, closing it again, seeming dumbfounded. Maybe you had been right thinking that you’d have more luck flirting with a walker than with him.

Before you could say anything else, Shane began questioning the doctor about what had gone on there, and Dr. Jenner’s story about his co-workers going with their families or committing suicide was enough to kill everyone’s mood and people began getting up from the table to go to their rooms or to the showers. You were a bit too drunk to actually register the doctor words, and your mind was occupied with other things.

“Mr. Dixon.” You might as well try your luck. “Walk me to my room.”

“Nah.” Daryl frowned, still looking at you like you were crazy.

“Come on, you said I was drunk, well, I am.” It wasn’t a lie. “So be a gentleman and walk me to my room or else I’ll trip and I’ll knock my head on the floor and I’ll die and it’ll be on you, and my dog will be an orphan and he’ll be soooo sad, he won’t love you no more.” You let out another drunken giggle. “So come on, Dixon.”

“You’re exasperating,” Daryl grumbled, getting up. “You’re gonna be bugging me all the time, right?”

“Yep”

“Come on.”

You got up, hooking your arm with his, ignoring him as he scoffed, and you tried to keep his fast pace as he walked without actually tripping over. Cole padded behind you both, tail wiggling happily.

“There.”

Daryl shook your arm off his when he stopped in front of your door, but you didn’t let go of him, taking hold of his arms and pulling him to you. You ran your hands up his arms, feeling the strong muscles under your palms, stopping on his broad shoulders.

“Have I told you that you’re like really, very, hot?” You said quietly, leaning closer. Daryl swallowed hard, frozen in place, but when you locked your hands behind his neck to try and pull his lips to yours, he shook you off.

“Damn, drunk, silly girl.”

He grumbled and before you knew what was happening he had grabbed you and lifted you off the floor, throwing you over his shoulder.

“What the hell, Daryl!” You yelped. “Okay, never mind, keep going.”

You giggled when he opened the door of the room and strode towards the bed. Damn finally. He dropped you onto the bed unceremoniously and you looked at him expectantly.

Daryl just turned over and walked away.

“Daryl?” You called after him, sitting up on the bed. “Where’re you going?”

“Watch her.” He muttered to Cole before walking out of the room, closing the door behind him.

You fell down onto your back with a frustrated groan. Yes, definitely you’d have more luck trying to flirt with a walker.

*

A loud banging on your door woke you up. Why was it so loud. Why did your head hurt that much. You groaned, trying to open your eyes. You were sure you wouldn’t feel worse if you’d been bitten by a walker. You stumbled towards the door, opening it to find Carol.

“Carol..hey…hi…” You greeted, surprising yourself with how hoarse your voice sounded.

“Morning, Y/N.” Carol seemed a bit amused at your state. “I came to tell you we’re having breakfast, if you want to join us.”

“Oh, yeah, yeah, sure, thanks.” Your stomach was doing funny things and you didn’t think you could eat, though. “I think I’m going to have a shower first.”

“Good idea.” Carol chuckled, giving you a warm smile. “Is Daryl there?”

“What, why would he?!”

You didn’t embarrass easily but you felt your cheeks heating up at Carol’s question, memories from the night before coming to your mind. Oh, god, poor Daryl. He barely looked at you in the eye when you talked, flinched when you touched his shoulder, and you had thrown yourself at him. You hoped he wasn’t mad…

“No reason,” Carol smirked. “Well, he’s not in his room, so if you happen to see him tell him we’re having breakfast.”

“Okay…”

On your way to the shower you crossed paths with Glenn, his hair wet, seeming to have had your same idea and seeming to be as hungover as you.

“You should go back in there, you still look shitty.” You teased.

“Yeah, don’t get scared when you see yourself on the mirror.” He teased back. “At least I wasn’t all over Daryl last night.”

“You noticed?”

“Who didn’t? You weren’t discrete.” Glenn chuckled

“God, no.” You groaned, hiding your face on your hands. As if you couldn’t get more mortified… Daryl was bound to be pissed.

“At least you had fun last night, all I did was puke.” Glenn grimaced. “Saw Daryl walking you to your room.”

“Pff…to get my drunken ass into bed.”

“Wasn’t that the point?”

“No, I mean…he made sure I was on bed, then he left.” You let out a sigh. “I hope I didn’t scare him…I should apologize when I see him.”

“Good luck with that.”

Once you were feeling almost awake, you joined the others for breakfast. Nobody was as chatty as last night, you could feel some tension but you didn’t know what was going on and honestly, you didn’t want to know.

Daryl looked at you as you walked in and quickly avoided your eyes, looking anywhere but to you. Cole ran to him as soon as he spotted him and Daryl seemed glad for the distraction.

You didn’t know if Daryl was mad or not, but he was obviously embarrassed. You ought to apologize. But honestly, as you sat down on the table, you could barely look at him either.

You didn’t have time to apologize after breakfast, since the doctor decided to finally tell you what was going on. You wished he hadn’t. So apparently the whole world had gone to shit, those monsters were everywhere, and there was no cure, no place standing. Great. Just great. What were you supposed to do now?

Daryl walked away, bottle of booze in hand, saying he was going to get drunk again. Probably not a bad idea, considering the news you had just gotten.

You weren’t sure what to do. Rick and some of the others had gone to the basement to check the generators, after the doctor said something you didn’t understand about them shutting down at some point. The others were silent or talking quietly with each other, despairing and depressed after the news Jenner had broke.

You’d rather be drinking with Daryl but you weren’t sure if he would want you to join him. You weren’t sure if he was mad or not, but he had done everything not to look at you during breakfast. Another look around at the somber mood and at the strange doctor and you decided you’d try your luck with Daryl and also apologize.

You thought he might have gone to his room and you took a deep breath before knocking on it.

“Go away!”

It wasn’t the best start.

“It’s Y/N…”

You weren’t sure if it was going to make it better or worse, but he opened the door.

“What?”

“I was wondering if I could join you for a drink?” You asked and Daryl looked at you warily. “I’m not going to get drunk and jump on you, I promise.” You blushed as you spoke and noticed Daryl’s cheeks getting red too. Great, you were making everything more awkward. “Just…after what that doctor said…don’t know what to do with myself…” You shrugged helplessly, not sure of how to explain it.

Daryl said nothing but nodded at you to walk in, and Cole almost ran you over as he rushed inside. You walked inside and leaned against a wall awkwardly, looking at Daryl, who was silent as he petted your dog.

“What do you think of what that doctor said?” You asked and Daryl just shrugged. You didn’t seem to be making much progress. “I just…I wasn’t expecting a cure just…I don’t know.  I thought someone, somewhere, was working on solving this, that it��d be temporal…but everything is gone…” It was worse than what any of you had thought. “There’s no safe place anywhere.”

“We have this place.” Daryl finally spoke but he still didn’t look at you.

“I don’t know…that man gives me the creeps.”

Daryl nodded, humming.

“Mind sharing?” You reached out your hand so he’d pass you the bottle, hoping it’d make him look at you.

It did, but only for a second, as he took a couple of steps closer and passed you the bottle, dropping his gaze down again. You took a deep breath.

“Daryl, I have to apologize for last night.” You told him before he could walk away again. “I’m sorry, I truly am, I was drunk. I’m sorry I was…well…like that.” You felt your cheeks blushing again. “I didn’t mean to be like that, sorry.”

“It’s okay…” He muttered, fidgeting. “You were drunk, I know you didn’t mean it.”

“You are not mad?” You asked cautiously.

“Nah.” He shook his head.

“Okay…okay, thanks.” You smiled, relieved.

He shrugged again, giving you what you almost could call half a smile. Even though you were happy he wasn’t mad and that he didn’t seem to think you were a creep, his words about knowing you didn’t mean it rubbed you the wrong way. You had meant what you had said, you just hadn’t meant to act like that, pushing his boundaries as you had done.

“You do have pretty eyes, though.” You said softly, tentatively, hoping it wouldn’t make him flip.

“Stop it.” He scoffed, rolling said blue eyes.

“Okay. Sorry.”

Daryl opened his mouth as if to say something but closed it and began chewing on his lower lip. He was looking at you, longer than he had ever done, his intense eyes unreadable to you. You couldn’t help but look at the lip he kept nibbling. You bit your own lip and reached down to leave the bottle of alcohol on the floor next to you before locking eyes with him.

“Daryl…” You whispered. “The world has gone to shit, everything’s dead around us, there’s no solution, there’s nothing we can do, nowhere to go, and I really, really want to kiss you.”

He said nothing but didn’t pull away from you and so you leaned closer but waited for him to make the move. He didn’t. You heard him swallowing hard and you were about to pull back, afraid you had made him too uncomfortable and he didn’t know what to do, when he crashed his lips against yours.

You gasped in surprise but quickly kissed him back, tasting the bitterness of the alcohol in his lips and holding onto his arms.

You were surprised by the strength of his kisses but you kissed him back with the same hunger. You wrapped your arms around his shoulders and moaned into the kiss when he walked you to the wall, pressing you against it.

You tried to wrap a leg around his and Daryl seemed to catch on what you wanted, hooking his arms under your thighs and lifting you off the ground. You wrapped your legs around his waist, letting out a breathless laugh against his lips when he pushed you harder against the wall.

You moaned again, lost in the kiss, one of your hands shifting up to caress his cheek, when suddenly he pulled his lips off you and dropped you, pulling himself away from you.

“No.” He grunted.

You looked at him with wide, confused eyes, breathing hard. He was panting too, his face flushed, looking at the floor.

“Daryl? What’s wrong?”

He just shook his head and when you tried to reach out for him he flinched away. You were confused. Maybe he didn’t want you? But then why had he kissed you back? Maybe you had pushed him too much…but still…that kiss… You didn’t know what to think.

“I’m sorry.” You said, not knowing what else to do and before any of you could say anything else, the lights went out.

“What’s going on?” You asked Daryl, trying not to freak out.

“Dunno…”

You heard him moving and then tripping over something and cursing, followed by a whimper from Cole.

“Shit, sorry dog, you’re in the middle.”

You followed Daryl’s voice and clung to his arm when you found him, hoping he wouldn’t push you away. He didn’t, walking you both to the door and opening it to find the others in the corridor, their rooms dark too.

You all followed doctor Jenner, demanding explanations that he ignored until an alarm began blasting and he finally explained what was going on. The lab had shut itself down and was about to explode with all of you inside.

You didn’t think you had ever been as scared as you were in that moment, seeing the clock counting down, knowing that the lab you were in was going to explode, while that damn doctor Jenner was acting like it was for the best, deaf to all your pleas.

Everyone seemed to share your panic. Some were crying while others tried to break the doors with axes and everything they could get. Rick was trying to reason with Jenner without any success. Your dog seemed to feel the panic and he ran behind you, nervous, barking from time to time.

“It’s not working.” You said in panic to Daryl and Shane, the door not giving up.

“These doors are made to stand a rocket launcher.” The doctor commented and you flipped him off.

“Your head ain’t!”

Daryl raised the ax he was wielding, running to the doctor, but before he could reach him Rick grabbed him and pulled him back.

“Get off!”

Daryl shook Rick off and tried to throw himself to the doctor again, but you stopped in front of him.

“Daryl, wait.” He tried to push you to the side but you grabbed his wrists. “If you kill him then he won’t open the doors. Give me that.”

You took the ax from Daryl’s hands and turned to Dr. Jenner.

“Open the door or I start cutting pieces of you until you open it.” You threatened but the man didn’t even flinch. “Okay, I start with your feet!”

“What the…Y/N!” Rick forcefully took the ax from you. “That’s not the way!”

“Whatever, keep begging him, he’s not even listening.” You snapped, trying not to cry of frustration and fear.

You went back to trying to open the door with Daryl even though you were pretty sure it was useless, but you had to do something. You couldn’t help your tears and you rubbed them furiously before you started kicking the door in frustration.

“Y/N.” Daryl stopped you, grabbing your arms and pulling you away from the door. “You’re not gonna open it like that, you’re gonna hurt yourself.”

“What do we do then?” You whimpered, hating that you couldn’t stop crying. “Nothing?”

“Dunno…” Daryl seemed as lost as you.

It seemed Shane couldn’t take it anymore either, he began shooting at the computers and then threatening Jenner with his shotgun, only to be stopped by Rick. Neither that had the doctor change his mind and you dropped to the floor, pulling Cole to you and burying your face into his fur, waiting for the end.

Somehow, when you were sure you all were lost, Jenner finally seemed to listen to one of Rick’s pleas, opening the doors.

“Come on, come on!”

Daryl pulled you onto your feet and you ran down the corridor, Cole at your heels, until you reached the reception of the building, stopping when you noticed some of the others weren’t coming.

“What’s going on?”

“Jacquie, Dale and Andrea don’t want to come,” Glenn told you, seeming about to cry.

“What?!” You couldn’t believe it.

“Shit!” Daryl cursed. “This is closed too!”

You ran to him as he began hitting the main door with the ax but it wasn’t breaking. You couldn’t believe that after thinking you were going to make it, you were still trapped inside.

Shane aimed at the glass windows with his shotgun but that didn’t break it either, and you were once again sure that this was your end, but then Carol passed Rick a grenade she had found in his clothing and that finally, finally, broke the window.

You all ran outside only to find yourself face to face with a group of walkers. Some began firing at them but you had to keep going or the explosion would kill you.

“Come on, we have to get to the cars, come on!” Someone yelled, you weren’t sure who, you could barely hear anything over the pounding of your scared heart in your ears.

“Y/N, get the dog, don’t let him get separated!”

Daryl told you and you grabbed Cole’s collar, keeping him with you while he barked like crazy. Daryl kept you behind him as he hit the walkers blocking the way with the ax. You wanted to do something but you couldn’t take your knife and keep holding Cole at the same time, and you were afraid the walkers would get him if you didn’t keep him close.

“Come on!”

Daryl grabbed your arm once there weren’t walkers too close and you three ran to his truck, rushing inside. You held onto your dog, closing your eyes and trying to shield him, and you felt Daryl’s body over yours doing the same.

No matter you had been waiting for it, the explosion was so loud it took your breath away as your heart did a somersault, it made the cars shake but you were far enough to be safe.

“You okay?” Daryl pulled away from you, moving to the other side of the seat as he looked at you with worried eyes.

“Yeah…thanks…” Your heart was still beating like crazy. “You?”

Daryl nodded and looked through the window.

“Look!”

Dale and Andrea were rushing into the RV, somehow.

“They’re fine!” You smiled to Daryl, barely believing it. They have made it!

“We have to leave, that sound and the fire are bringing every walker around here.” Daryl turned on the engine to drive away.

“What are we going to do now?” You felt lost again. The CDC had been your best shot and look at how it had turned out. What were you supposed to do know?

“I don’t know…”

...............................................................

So...that happened!! Did you expect them to kiss so soon on a fic of mine? Did you liked it? Or maybe it wasn’t really your thing?

At any rate, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, because I loved writing it a lot!! I had such a good time! Please, if you have a moment drop me a comment and let me know your thoughts, I’d love to read it and talk to all of you!

Something tells me we’re getting Daryl’s pov soon...*wink* More comming next wednesday!

As always, English is not my first language so sorry if there are mistakes.

If you want to be tagged (or removed from the tags) let me know!

@momc95​​  @jodiereedus22​​ @osweetdevilo​​ @sapphire1727​​ @coffeebooksandfandom​​ @crustyrose​​ @checkintoreality​​ @daddys-little-princess67 @sesshomaru-lover​​ @crossbowking​​ @coltcas​​ @feartheendlesssummer​​ @izumi37​​ @gruffle1​​ @cutiepiemimi13​​ @drina365​​ @kuolematkorjaavat @daeshaunex2 @twdeadlysins​​ @stressed-lasagna​​ @teenyforestfairy​​ @yenne-yen-illustrations​​ @mychemicalimagines​​ @nikkipea​​ @crazycatladyalustriel​​  @miniprz  @wolfkg​​ @paybackbarnes @haleypearce @nikki082489 @dotslabyrinth @mtngirlforever @superflannel @blckbuttler @deanervs   @linktheloveabledork @sourwolf-sterek32 @iminlokisarmysofi @traveleraroundsworld @deliciousassafrasssandwich @angelontheinside @friendly-black-cat @firehoopinmama @d0ntfitin @ivars-snowflake @mblaqgi @lxdyred @a-dlv @elysijin @gabriels-pornstashe

[elizabethsharmon]

Be kind always (even though we know it's not possible due to you being so offensive 😇😇😇)

oooh okay so turns out that this is an actual question meanwhile I thought it’s just a reminder that I shouldn’t be too petty while ranking the remakes 🤦‍♀🤦‍♀🤦‍♀ though I honestly don’t know how can I not be offensive while answering this question soooo I guess I’m gonna put this under cut so if anyone doesn’t want to see the negativity just don’t click? 🤷‍♀

Be Kind always - Unpopular opinion about skam?

aka I’m gonna say something controversial yet so brave

since you haven’t specified which one I should mention and I know you well enough to know what you expect from asking me this so…

skam france: season 4 was well-written. yes, there was sometimes too much drama to handle but there weren’t any plot holes and everything that happened actually made sense EXCEPT MARLES GETTING BACK TOGETHER UGH but other than that yes. and AT LEAST they gave imane all 10 episodes and in two clips that had somewhat switched pov she was still the main focus of them in the end. some remakes should learn.

wtfock:

they seem to just pick all the songs from billboard top 100 list from years 2003-2019 and put them randomly in the clips only to have a Known Tune and it makes no sense for the story shown on screen

cutting clips that could’ve easily be long into short clips and then ending them abruptly disrupts the flow of the story and one longer clip would work better than 832882 long ones (for example see: wednesday clips from s3e3)

what they’re doing now with sander and robbe without showing us practically any interaction between them but giving us hints that yeah they talked with each other and spent some time together is not cutting through, they can’t cram 3 weeks of interactions and longing into one week (or more like 3 clips where they actually talked) and be like “yeah, that’s good, great job, jeff”

which brings me to my next point: it kinda seems now that they don’t have any lgbt writers in the team and it shows

skam espana: s1 was the least skam-like in terms of experience and acting and the work of camera of all the remakes

skam austin: it’s not even skam anymore, it’s another american show for teenagers and yeah, no, it doesn’t work

druck:

first of all mia and queerbaiting saga - the only reason why they made her bi was because fans wanted her to be and so first in s1 she says “i don’t like labels”, then the writers made her KISS HANNA, only to make her say like two or three lines that she’s bi in s2. AND THEN they made her break up with alex after they were kinda okay together (as much as a noorhelm couple can be) and literally 5 minutes after they broke up they queerbaited with mia and this other girl.that’s like… not how you write bi characters and it’s very, very harmful to the community. so stop.

secondly: the constant focus on boys and talking about relationship with boys only like that’s the only thing girls can talk about. spoiler alert: it’s not! first they made the bechdel test clip and literally the next day they forgot about it all and released a clip of girl squad (except mia who was too busy kissing alex) talking about boys and relationships only with boys (but not for mia because “mia has a choice”! yeah so do you!!!) for 7 minutes straight. love that for them.

thirdly: contrary to popular opinion season 3 was a complete mess and the writing decreased tremendously and acting wasn’t good either. matteo had all the signs of depression but they just completely ignored it and just made him smoke more weed and meet with his weed dealer and he was practically stoned through the whole season. also his outfits were plain awful and whoever says otherwise has no taste at all sorry not sorry

still at the third point: if you want to change MI storyline to trans storyline that’s amazing BUT you HAVE TO adjust the timeline to this and if you really want to make it right and use your show as a platform to raise awareness and normalise stuff just do this and actually show stuff and talk about them and mention it. one dialogue isn’t enough. all in all what druck did wasn’t good at all, there was no point in waiting for so long for matteo to meet with david again plus making david being outed their “big reveal” at the end of ep8 (aka clips when evens have an episode) was only there for shock factor

let’s move on to season 4 aka “amira where?”. it was basically kiki’s season first, then they literally changed pov to mia and hanna and made it even worse and more pointless. love that.

i think that mohammed was borderline creepy and some of his interactions with amira reminded me a lot of noorhelm?? and yeah, i wasn’t buying that

also sam. she was in like 1/10 of all the seasons and it seemed like they put her in the clips only when kiki really fucked up and someone had to deal with it OR for comedy relief. she was the least developed character in the show

oh and the person handling youtube comments in the show and some members of the cast saying “just wait :)” and “yeah amira’s season is over but there are still some episodes left with other characters so just shut up and enjoy”… yeah, it doesn’t work like that. they can’t expect us to be thrilled that they made even more mess of s4 than any of the remakes or og and gave their poc character only seven (7) episodes. you don’t do things like this. you just don’t

okay i think that’s it. if i think of something more, i will let you know. are you happy now that you got your answer?

[kinomiakai]

do you think you would ever write nar and sas as parents? do you have any hcs about what they'd be like?

oh anon WOULD I EVER

YES I am 100% going to write that at some point but in the mean time I have soooo many headcanons. If we’re talking canon, then I think kage bunshin would be just…the most useful thing in the world. And I’m not talking like, send a bunshin to your kid’s birthday party ‘cause you gotta stay at your desk (let’s be real, Naruto would leave a clone to do work & go to a party himself 100% of the time. It’s NARUTO), I’m talking like Sasuke’s on a mission, the dishwasher just broke and we just ran out of diapers. I’m talking one kid forgot their favourite shoes at home, another one just started vomiting and there are no paper towels in the go bag AND the third refuses to eat until they’re in Sasuke’s lap. There’s a million Naruto’s running all over Konoha all the time and all of them are for him & Sasuke’s kids. BUT THEN DOWNSIDE is when Naruto has to leave for a while, Sasuke realizes how stupidly reliant he’s gotten on the clones & Naruto comes home to a Sasuke who just collapses in his arms, grumbling about how everybody got lice and how he hasn’t slept a night in a week and Naruto’s never allowed to go anywhere ever again

I hc that in the period of like…waiting, whether it be while the adoption paperwork is going through or a surrogate is pregnant or mpreg if that’s your thing, Naruto & Sasuke are just absolute nervous wrecks. Nervous excited wrecks, to be sure, but neither of them have any idea what they’re doing and that’s terrifying. Naruto thinks he could so very easily fuck it up because he has no idea what any of this is about and Sasuke thinks he could so very easily fuck it up because, hey, he kind of has a personal history of that and when they finally get around to communicating like normal people they just kind of go….what? You think you’re the one whose gonna fuck it up? I am!!! Not you!!! And Naruto goes on a rant about how Sasuke is caring and compassionate and is gonna be the greatest fucking father, fuck you, and Sasuke is yelling about how Naruto is stupidly good at talking to people and he just knows how to DEAL with things and Sasuke has little to no experience in actually dealing with problems in a way that doesn’t end up blowing up in his face and Naruto tells him he’s dumb because they are a walking example of Sasuke dealing with things and so is the rest of Konoha. You know, the places that you helped rebuild, Sasuke?? The place you helped me fix, Sasuke?? You think I could do this shit on my own?? And then they stare at each other for a while but it’s Sasuke that ends up laughing first because there’s something so hilarious about Naruto admitting he still needed Sasuke’s help, now, after all these years, after their entire childhood of Naruto firmly denying he ever needed any of Sasuke’s help each and every time Sasuke saved his ass as kids. (And what really ends up happening is that they both have their flaws, but the other is there to make up for them. Sasuke is quiet and doesn’t know how to properly comfort someone, especially when they’re old enough to be crying about things they should be crying about - but that’s where Naruto thrives. And Naruto still doesn’t throw the milk out when it expires, because he says it’s still fine, and he doesn’t throw out their child’s ripped jacket either, because “there’s still a few threads holding it; it’ll be fine for another few months” - but Sasuke replaces them without another word. It’s a slow process to get Naruto to fully acknowledge just how much of his childhood shouldn’t have been the way that it was. Sasuke did that long ago.)

AND when their kid does something wrong - like genuinely wrong, beyond pouring a bucket of paint on the teacher (which Naruto found fucking hilarious but Sasuke sits them down and quietly informs them that the person cleaning it up would not be the teacher, it would be the janitor, and why were they being punished for what the teacher had done? And as their kid leaves with a bucket and sponge, Naruto looks over at Sasuke and tells him that he’s so “mature and responsible. What are you, an adult or something?” And Sasuke flicks his ear.), it’s Naruto who takes charge. Sasuke is quiet and disappointed and can’t even find the temper to flare up (but somehow that disappointment is a thousand times worse), let alone the words to say. But Naruto kneels down and just talks. Talks and asks and talks until their child finally admits that they didn’t mean to do it, they’d just been so angry and please don’t hate me, I didn’t mean to do it, I’m so sorry dad, please– And then everyone is hugging and crying and Naruto isn’t looking at Sasuke as he whispers “you did a bad thing, but you’re not a bad person. We still love you. I’ll always love you. Shh, it’s okay, it’s okay, we love you” but the words still cut through Sasuke like a knife. And Naruto doesn’t really get why Sasuke is so obviously and intensely affectionate that night, but he sure as hell doesn’t complain.

ONE LAST HC is that one day their kid comes home absolutely seething about “the stupid bastard” in their class who just “thinks he’s so much better than everybody else, just 'cause he’s good at everything but he’s stupid and mean and I don’t get why everybody is so obsessed with his stupid pretty face” and Sasuke rests his chin on his hand and takes a sip of his tea as he unblinkingly stares at Naruto and Naruto puts his face in his hands