#they're not compatible in the way he had hoped. the timing is wrong. nothing is as simple and perfect as he would have liked.

[primus-why]

The Problem with Pax

hhhhhhh please I can't stop thinking about the inherent MegOp angst of an extended Orion Pax arc... especially when you imagine Orion fighting the Autobots and almost getting captured-- and calling out to Megs.

And you know Megs would answer his cry by immediately stopping whatever he was doing and going into a vengeful tunnel vision. He crushes anything in his path on the way to rescue Orion (and quite frankly, that ferocious single-mindedness disturbs all other Cons and Bots who are present.) Like the dude is obsessed!

Once they're back and safely on the Nemesis, Soundwave gets a moment alone with the Decepticon leader. He doesn't have to say anything aloud, just the fact he's there after what had transpired already speaks volumes.

"... I know," Megatron grounds out, "I was... callous today. I hadn't considered such a light skirmish could result in Orion's capture. But we will be better prepared the next time the Autob--"

Soundwave interrupts him with a clip of his own voice-- Megatronus' voice-- from many vorns ago.

"Orion Pax will not be a distraction."

Megatron's gaze becomes a glare. Soundwave merely crosses his arms, firm and admonishing.

It's as clear of an 'I told you so' as Megatron will get out of his mute TIC. He opts for a different angle.

"What Orion Pax contributes to the Decepticons is valuable, is it not?"

Soundwave didn't move, so Megatron continued.

"It would be a detriment to the progress we've made on decoding the archives if he were captured. Besides, we wouldn't want Orion's knowledge and skillset to fall into the hands of the Autobots, would we?"

"We cannot afford to prioritize any one mech." Again, his own voice is spat back at him. "Sacrifices must be made in times of war."

"This is different--" He starts to say, but he visibly struggles to find more words to explain why. He knows Soundwave is perfectly capable of decoding the archives-- that Orion Pax is not the best fighter, nor can he mine energon or provide ship repairs. He can't even tap into any hidden Prime abilities. By all accounts, Orion isn't particularly exceptional. If anything he could be considered a liability.

After some blatant hesitation, "... if the Autobots were to take him, he might be reverted back to Optimus Prime." He says a bit too quickly. 'Yes. Of course. Depriving the enemy of their beloved leader is of utmost priority... my logic is sound.'

Soundwave uncrossed his arms, this time choosing to cobble words and phrases together for his reply.

"Optimus Prime-- may be-- reverted back-- here."

Megatron's servos clenched into fists.

"And should that come to pass, we are perfectly capable of subduing him. The Prime would be grossly outnumbered, stranded with no way to contact the Autobots while on our own ship." He regarded his TIC for a moment before continuing, "As always I appreciate your concern and watchful optics, Soundwave. I'll personally see to it that we have a cell with the Prime's name on it... just in case."

Soundwave imparts some final wisdom from one of the older gladiators who had trained them for the arena:

"Distractions get you offlined."

Once alone, Megatron groans and stares at the ceiling, his processor working out potential scenarios Orion might encounter and solutions on how to evade them.

"I know, old friend."

Having said his piece, Soundwave finally turns on his heel and takes his leave.

'There has to be a way I can make this work.' He thinks, 'I will not lose him again.'

[deathofacupid]

⤷ in which you're the only one soft!sukuna treats this way .ᐟ

soft!sukuna who took forever to say "i love you" for the first time, and thank his ego for that.

when you'd said it for the first time, soft!sukuna couldn't do anything but let his face heat up, avoiding eye contact as if his life depended on it. of course, you knew his nature. you told him he didn't have to say it back, even though (on the inside, at least) you were hoping so much that he would. you just wanted him to know.

and god forbid, once you'd said it that first time, you couldn't stop.

soft!sukuna didn't end up saying it that day, but it didn't really matter. he showed you his love in different ways.

soft!sukuna, who shows you his said love in his own ways, remembers everything about you. the things you said once, then forgot. from your dreams in life to what you had for lunch last tuesday - if it has to do with you, the chances are, he'll remember it.

soft!sukuna who gets up earlier than you do (he doesn't enjoy sleeping in much), and on his morning walk, picks you a single flower from the estate's garden and leaves it on his bare pillow, right next to yours. soft!sukuna doesn't like it when you make such a big deal about it. you see it as you wake up, while he's showering. it's just a flower, in his view, but it makes you happy, so he'll do it for the rest of his life.

soft!sukuna who doesn't really understand human dating customs much, but he'll go along with it - well, most of the time. for example, when you first met him, you wanted to take it slow, so you went on some "test" dates. soft!sukuna was going to make you his anyways, so he thought to entertain it.

the idea of going on "dates" – pre-mating trials to assess compatibility, seemed odd to him. what he wanted, he got. there was no "testing" of anything.

you and soft!sukuna who had some communication issues at the start. he didn't get indirect communication - subtle cues, body language, or "reading between the lines" to express interest or disinterest. soft!sukuna never had a problem with saying what was on his mind, but for you, some things you didn't think really had to be said.

soft!sukuna who's the single most possessive and jealous man you've ever known. somebody looked at you the wrong way? they're a waste of space. he'll dispose of them later. or, hey, did their tone sound a little off? doesn't matter, they should've known better. maybe next time. oh, wait - there won't be a next time.

in fact, this one time, when a guy hit on you at the bar, you had to drag him out, begging and pleading him to not resort to murder.

soft!sukuna who can't bring himself to say no to you, because that pretty little pout tugs on his heart-strings. he thinks it's pathetic, how you've hexed him.

instead, all he can manage is huffy, begrudged "fine."

soft!sukuna who loves cuddles so much. he loves when you rub his back or stomach, not that he'd ever verbally say so. he may be soft for you, but there's still pride.

instead, whenever you're on the bed, he'll look at you a certain way, and you'll know what to do. he loves your touch, so soft and gentle. soft!sukuna has never had anything like it before. he doesn't know how he's lived all this time without it.

soft!sukuna who can be very blunt at times, unintentionally hurting your feelings. he doesn't mean it, he's just not used to being careful with his words. he never says sorry, but the second you get that pained expression in your eyes, mouth parted slightly, soft!sukuna is basically on his knees apologizing. it's nothing short of humiliating, to him, but he'd rather be humiliated than apart from you.

soft!sukuna who said those three words to you, for the first time, during an argument. you'd wanted him to start killing less, you couldn't bear all the lost lives of the innocent. he didn't like that very much. either way, it had escalated quickly.

but the second soft!sukuna saw those tears sliding down your cheeks, he had pulled you flush against his chest, murmuring soft apologies.

"okay, okay. don't cry. i'll do what you want. i love you."

how they slipped out so naturally, as if he weren't planning on saying it in the first place, it surprised the both of you. but when you looked at him, eyes wide with both love and shock, he decided it was the right thing.

soft!sukuna didn't regret it at all.

because both for and to you, soft!sukuna was the sweetest, most gentle man you'd ever known.

all banner credits to @anitalenia and @dollywons .ᐟ

[jweekgoji]

Yandere!Five/Reader.

wow how long has it been? two years since I wrote something for TUA? I still haven't rewatched it since I'm finally catching up with breaking bad but I hope I'll rewatch TUA next week or so. for some strange reason I feel that weird feeling like I need to come back to my fav fictional family with bread and milk and concentrate on it ughhh. when I rewatch it I will check that requests I had before for TUA and will finish them!

tw: yandere Five, unhealthy obsession, mentions of the reader's death, Five has ZERO moments of peace here, angst, controlling Five, mentions of Five's childhood, sort of happy ending?

I'm probably describing my thoughts sooo bad don't be mad please

Like we know, Reginald wasn't afraid to use his own «children» for every heroic mission. Bank robbery? He'll make a 14 year old kids deal with it. Some villains are trying to cause problems? Well, another time to test Number 1's leadership skills, no time for a happy childhood, kiddos! And that is basically what their life is.

Basically, the only source from which they can get the feeling of being needed, loved by the public, and recognized, if not by their father but by the citizens. Reginald trained them well, as long as there are 6 of them, they can deal with any kind of problem. I mean, come on, they're THE Hargreeves, one of the strongest people in the world who have unique superpowers, it's not like something might go wrong one day.

Five was always the most compatible member of the team, always trying to be the best. Despite only being the fifth in the ranking, it doesn't stop him from showing off every time he taunts another criminal, making them lose their minds in attempts to catch him.

It was another day when he and his siblings would find a criminal to deal with. Everything went smoothly, as Luther would discuss the plan with everyone. Klaus and Ben would be outside waiting for the signal, Allison and Luther would be the ones to distract the criminals from the hostages and Diego should disarm them before causing any serious trouble. Five would be the one who would save the hostages.

I think his abilities help the most in such situations. He can teleport any person away in just seconds and lead them into safety, no one would even notice. And if something happens, Five is capable enough to fight by himself.

You are the last hostage he protects now. He had already saved more than 10 people non-stop before, and for some reason, his powers refused to work. It's not like he is weak or something, no, no, just give him some time to catch his breath, and he will continue in a moment! He can't let someone see him like this, let alone let his father find out about this little problem.

He would huff and puff about it, probably imagining how Diego or Klaus were teasing him, how Five was losing his cool and accidentally forgetting how his own powers were working due to what a pretty little hostage Five talked to! And they're close to his age too, so it would be natural for his age to get shy and awkward in front of someone cute he found~! Well, at least it's exactly what he imagines hearing from Klaus after the mission.

Five wasn't quiet around people, usually. He enjoys talking with his siblings, well, with some of them—and he finds it amusing to toy with criminals.

For some reason, he is quiet around you.

Of course, he would try to reassure you that everything is fine, he is a good guy here, and soon enough, you would be safe. The only thing you have to do is just listen to him and follow his lead.

He didn't suspect everything, of course, and was so full of himself even at such an age, thinking nothing would go wrong. You were around his age, and naturally, despite being an arrogant little brat, he did find you quite cute. Maybe, if he had a different life, he would have approached you in different circumstances.

But Five learned the hard way that he's not the strongest and could never be the number one. He would never be able to save everyone. He just stopped paying attention for a one damn second, and the next thing he heard, was a gunshot. Five could feel your hand slipping away from his own, and he would look back just in time to see you almost stumbling, only to catch you in his own arms. Blood painted his dark blue uniform in red.

After that incident, Five became more obsessed with the idea of time travelling. If at first he wanted to prove to his father that he is capable of much more, to show that he's actually much better than everyone, this idea also feeds off his guilt. His first mistake, the only time he failed to do his task. And he just can't let go of it, no matter how much Viktor tries to tell him that it's really not his fault, that he couldn't predict it.

And then, during dinner, he runs away, despite Viktor silently begging him not to do it. Then he blinks again, again, and again, until it's nothing but ruins surrounding him. Until The Handler decides to pay him a visit, expect that he will probably be much more calculative and controlling. 40 years of being alone did it's horrible job on his mind, every day trying to survive while thinking about a possible way out of this situation. Maybe, if he makes much better calculations, he will actually succeed. But being away from humanity for so long makes him crave human contact, he already had that mannequin, Dolores, he could find, talking every day to her about how he actually missed his family, how he wants at least some kind of sick normalcy he had back in the academy. At least he had a place to live without worrying every day about his own survival.

During these moments, where he actually gives himself some time to be weak, he wonders would he still do this if you were still alive? Would he still risk everything just to make his father proud?

He didn't know much about you before. The police shortly said that day that one of the employees had a child in the building, and they were taken hostages by the villains. You were around his age, a young, probably promising student in your normal school, with caring parents and friends who worried about you. Something he craved deeply, even though he would have never admitted it.

When he couldn't have teleported you away safely, he led you through the second way out. He can tell you were scared. Of course, who wouldn't be? It's not like you were used to it. He isn't the gentlest person, more like focused on the business and how to end it all as fast as possible. But you were shaking mess, asking from time to time if it's safe or is actually everything okay? Five, in his some kind of nonchalant and gruff manner, would only nod, reassuring you that his siblings probably dealt with the villains by that time.

You looked so normal for him. You had no powers, no one made you train every day just to bend you into their high expectations, you didn't have to compete for someone's love and approval. You acted like he's just a normal person too, never bothering him with questions about his brothers or a sister, not trying to peek into some secret life of the Hargreeves family. Do you even know who he is?

Eventually, he can't remember who exactly started the dialogue. Was it you, who just wanted to talk about something so boring like your school life, or like that you probably skipped a few classes and missed a math test? Or was it him, remembering his trainings how he should try to make the worried and scared hostage less afraid by making a small talk with them? He's too old to remember every single detail. But he certainly remembered that he at least listened to what you said to him. That he was actually looking at you, giving you his full attention.

Maybe if he was born into a normal family, he would have had a chance to live that normal life with you. But that would be too kind to wish for, wasn't it? Now, that his hands are covered in blood of so many innocent people he had to kill, asking for a normal life is impossible. Even after taking hundreds of lives, he still can't understand why is the sight of yours in his hands any different? He thought he would be used to it by now. What kind of evil God makes him see it over and over again, in every goddamn timeline?

First, it was a villain killing you right in front of him. Second, it was the Swedes who killed you the next day they saw Five trying to talk to you. He almost lost his mind when he spotted you living near the same hotel where his siblings and he decided to stay. But once again, the more problems just followed, leading to another damn disaster to take you away.

When he lost his powers, he didn't know if he should feel relieved or more concerned about it. Of course, that means that he probably has to find Reginald, to get more answers about what the hell happened in this new universe. But that also meant that he finally has a chance to live like a normal person too. Like you did.

He was unfamiliar with this world. He felt lost, humiliated most of the time now that everyone treat him like he's actually younger than he is. At least people stopped treating him like a child, yet he still has to deal with someone underestimating him. He has to find a job, a place to live, for God's sake, how the hell is he going to live without any documents here?

The fate seemed to be connecting you two once again, as it seemed. You would meet him accidentally, one time you just saw him visiting a café you were working for and the same process would repeat again. This time, he would actually remember every single little detail. He would approach you first, carefully and as politely as he could. He still thinks that if he makes even the smallest mistake, he would experience your loss once again. This time he won't screw up, he would plan everything strictly to his scenario. Your meeting, your first date, your first 'I love you'. You might think he's just the most perfect guy you ever met, which actually... would not be so far from the truth? ¯⁠\⁠_⁠(⁠ツ⁠)⁠_⁠/⁠¯

[mazamba]

So The Kids Are Robots Now...

"Miko," Ratchet groaned, "you need to scan something smaller."

"Your face needs to scan something smaller!"

Miko insisted that her reply would have been hilarious... if her hood hadn't conked her on the head again.

"Your armor is too loose!" the medic insisted, "I get that you like Bulkhead's vehicular form, but you need to accept that you're beter off scanning the Miata!"

Miko gasped in horror, "You take that back!"

Arcee rolled her eyes as she walked in, "They're still at it?"

"Yep," yepped Raf, "I think I'm getting better at this though."

He transformed down into his chosen form, an orange Vespa. This time he managed to stay on his tires, instead of falling over the way he had every other time he'd tried that.

Out of the three, Raf was the one that was happiest with his transformation. He was still the shortest in the group, shorter than Arcee even, but at a mere ten feet tall, he was still able to access most of the rooms he was used to.

For her part, Miko was barely taller than Arcee and mourned that she couldn't match Bulkhead's vehicle mode.

Not that it stopped her from trying.

"Fine, do me a favor and transform."

Miko grinned and transformed down... sort of.

The oversized armor was so loose, it kept jamming and catching on itself at every joint. It took her almost a full minute to settle into a Hummer.

"See? I told you it was fine!"

Instead of pointing out the obvious, Ratchet pressed down on her front bumper.

"OWOWOWOWOW!"

"Loose armor strains the joints," he scolded, "there's a reason I gave you a compatibility list!"

"They were all sports cars!"

Bumblebee asked what was wrong with sports cars.

"Nothing! I just like my cars with a little more muscle,"she whined as she transformed back up, taking almost as long to do so as she did to transform down, "I need- ow ow ow! My fender's stuck in my...! Something!"

Ratchet sighed and grabbed her by the back of the neck, lifting her like a cat before shaking her to loosen her jammed armor.

"...Thanks."

"IF I find you a vehicle that fits your mass and comes with off-road capabilities, would you consider scanning it?"

"Ugh, FINE! You're no fun."

After another hour of searching, they eventually found a car she liked. A dune buggy was, in her words, a mini-Bulkhead. It took her little time to modify her paint into an artistic mess of black, dark purples, and hot pink accents.

"All right, now that that's over with," grumbled Ratchet, "I need a status update from Optimus on Jackson's vehicle form."

"Yeah, where did they take Jack?" asked Raf.

"Well, we didn't have any scans compatible with Jack's frame on hand," Arcee pointed out, "so Optimus and Bulkhead loaded him into a train to find him... something."

She trailed off as the sound of rotors, very big rotors, got closer.

Peeking out Miko sulked immediately, "Man! Some people have all the luck."

A search and rescue helicopter landed on the tarmac, with Bulkhead and Optimus arriving shortly after.

"I'm not sure Jack would agree," pointed out Arcee.

Jack shifted and transformed, forcing Miko to crane her neck upwards and walk backwards to see his eyes. She thought he looked awesome with the rotors turning into a cape of sorts, but he mostly looked awkward and uncomfortable. He towered over even Optimus, who barely reached his waist.

"I'm uh, I'm gonna go lay down."

He had to crouch to enter the hangar.

"Think Fowler can find us a bigger base?" asked Bulkhead.

"For Jackson's sake, I certainly hope so."

"I still don't get why he's pouting," muttered Miko, "his hands are bigger than my whole body!"

They all gave her a look.

"Miko, I understand your excitement with the situation," Optimus sighed as he knelt to better see her optic-to-optic, "but while this will be a difficult situation to adjust to for you and Rafael, Jackson has the added troubles that come from a frame his size."

"Well, yeah, but it's badass! I mean, he could probably punt Megatron into next week now!"

"Jackson has requested to provide a support role. His chosen vehicle form reflects that. He will fight when he has to, but his focus will be in the evacuation of civilians."

"And you are also staying clear of the front lines," Bulkhead cut in before she could get any ideas, "you're unarmed and untrained. Until that's corrected, you're on evac duty IF you're on the field at all."

"WHAT!? Come on, I've been on the field before!"

"Not with our permission," he countered, "and now that you're a bigger target, you're not leaving the base without permission again."

"Aw, come on Bulk! I thought we were buds!"

"We are... but now I'm also your mentor and commanding officer, which means fun time is on a schedule now."

"Aw..."

"Now come on... we're starting with shooting lessons."

Miko perked up at that, allowing her partner to walk her to the range.

"So... that was the easy part," pointed out Arcee, "who's telling June?"

"I have informed her of the situation," Optimus reported, "she was held up by an emergency at her workplace, but she should be here shortly."

"Great, I'm going for a nice, long-."

"As his partner, I believe you should be here as well."

"...Are you scared of the teeny tiny human, Prime?"

"I am concerned that her initial assessment was correct," he admitted, "the children have been irrevocably changed by their involvement with us in ways we have failed to predict."

"...And you're scared of the teeny tiny human."

He raised an eyebrow, "Are you not?"

"Terrified."

[kingwuko]

Hey im new to wuko i think it's cute but I'm Not sure about it like what does mako LOVE about wu ? genuinely asking it feels unbalanced to me

GASP NEW TO WUKO???

Welcome to the Wuko fandom my friend. I'm glad to hear you think it's cute and excited that you are interested!

I don't want to scare you away. But as you can see I'm a little unhinged about Wuko as a ship lol. I could talk about them all day. And I have. Better people than me have written meta on why Wuko works as a ship, but I'll do my best!

When you say 'unbalanced', I'm guessing you mean that it's pretty clear that Wu loves Mako, but you aren't sure about the other way around.

Since this isn't a canon ship, we have to make some assumptions based on canon. It's EASY to interpret the way Wu acts throughout the show and the comics are signs of romantic feelings. We have to look at Mako a little more closely.

For me, personally, the biggest thing that I believe Mako loves about Wu is his growth as a person. We see it in canon. Mako watches Wu become more selfless throughout the show. He acknowledges it in the finale. He makes comments about it in Ruins of the Empire.

I don't know about you, but I don't know ANYONE in the world who is perfect. But I know plenty of people who think they're perfect or close enough and don't believe they have to change and grow to be better. And I also know certain people who have grown TREMENDOUSLY during the time I've known them and changed for the better.

The people who see where they can grow and improve, then actually do it? The people who can admit when they're wrong and change? The people who can take criticism and acknowledge their faults, then actively work to be better? Those are people worth the risk of loving.

I think Mako loves a lot of things about Wu but he doesn't realize it, much like in season one when he first met Korra, he struggled to recognize when his feelings for her were emerging. But I think when Mako finally realizes there's something there for Wu, he's going to realize all the little things he loves, too. Yes, there's lots of big things to love and admire about Wu: his handling of the evacuation, his decision to give up absolute power to transition the Earth Kingdom into a democracy, then his decision to delay his abdication make a smoother transition of power...

But also consider: Wu genuinely dotes after Mako; wants to make him feel better when he's down; throws compliments around like it's nothing; he accepts Mako exactly as he his, messy history and all; he wins the hearts of Yin and Pabu; and despite his obnoxious comphet ladies man act, he manages to befriend Korra, a person Mako cares about and holds in the highest regard. Wu is fun and outgoing. He does things just because they feel good. He dances and sings. He befriends animals. He CARES.

Mako can definitely fall in love with someone who has all those traits. They got off to a rocky start, but so what? Mako and Korra got off to a rocky start too. He loved her anyways, but they didn't work together because they weren't compatible. Mako and Wu are, in a perfect opposites attract way.

Ironically, you mentioned it feels 'unbalanced' and I wrote a whole post about their personality types and how they balance each other out, here, if you're interested.

I hope I haven't scared you away with my rambling. I have been actively shipping these two for a looooong time. Pretty much since I first saw season four, which would have been around eight or nine years ago! And I've had this blog since 2019, so I've been active in the Wuko fandom for years.

[latenightcinephile]

Film #914: 'La La Land', dir. Damien Chazelle, 2016.

I really like old-school Hollywood musicals, and I've always been sad that it's a genre that has gotten harder and harder to find in modern Hollywood. Most of the genre has since been supplanted by Disney films and either low-budget works or jukebox musicals, produced because there is a ready audience for the songs. While there has been a shift towards film adaptations of Broadway hits in the last decade or so (Les Miserables (Tom Hooper, 2012), Into the Woods (Rob Marshall, 2014), Cats (Tom Hooper, 2019)), it's a poor sign of the genre's health that there are no longer any major actors renowned for their consistent career in musicals - no Astaires or Crosbys or Garlands. So imagine my glee on hearing that a new, original musical was being made! One that hearkened back to the Hollywood spectaculars of the 1940s and 1950s! La La Land! The promotional photos looked reminiscent of the soundstage musicals that I had fallen in love with! At long last, it was time!

So, I didn't watch it for seven years. I don't know exactly why I didn't - a combination of having a lot going on in my life that stopped me getting to theatres, and then an internal rebellion against the amount of praise the film was receiving. It certainly wasn't helped by the Oscars debacle - there's nothing that diminishes a film's prestige quite like conspicuously not winning the Best Picture award. Finally, this year, I sat down to watch it, hoping I would be wrong, and that the shine would still be there - that I would be transported.

La La Land is not bad. It's also not transcendental.

Mia Dolan (Emma Stone) and Seb Wilder (Ryan Gosling) have both moved to Los Angeles to pursue their dreams. Mia wants to be an actress, but has found work in a coffee shop on the Warner Brothers studio lot. Seb hopes to revitalise jazz music in Los Angeles by refurbishing a famed jazz club. Mia encounters Seb by chance, and loves his music, but their first few interactions are filled with hostility - road rage, a thwarted introduction at the moment Seb is fired (in a cameo by J. K. Simmons, who also starred in Chazelle's Whiplash in 2014), and a terrible Hollywood pool party. Finally warming to each other, the two begin dating and encouraging each other to pursue their dreams in whatever way possible - Mia by performing a one-woman show, and Seb joining a jazz-pop band fronted by Keith (John Legend). Just before Mia's show opens, Seb returns from touring, and the two argue bitterly over their future and how to reconcile their two careers, ending with Seb spitting vitriol about how Mia cannot stand his success. The two break up, and Mia returns to her childhood home.

Shortly after this, Seb receives a message for Mia, inviting her to a casting call. He goes to retrieve her, and her audition is a success. The two talk about how, while their lives are not compatible, they'll always love each other. Five years later, Mia is a successful actress and Seb has opened his club. They once again meet by chance and, after considering what their life together could have been, they each go their separate ways once more.

You might notice that, in this description, I haven't paid much attention to the songs or music in this musical. That's because, in all honesty, not very much of it was memorable to me. The opening number 'Another Day of Sun', and 'City of Stars', the song that gets used as a motif throughout, remain catchy, but they're the only tracks that left a mark. That's a real shame, because they're not really the turning points of the film. And while Gosling and Stone show that they're relatively accomplished as singers and dancers in this film, it's also clear that they're not accustomed to doing this kind of work regularly. 'A Lovely Night' is a prime example of this - it's a couple's dance number, and the choreography is not exactly simple, but Stone and Gosling look like they've learned the dance in isolation from each other. This is a number where the easy chemistry that the two of them have temporarily gets put on hold so that they can focus on the steps.

And I'm aware that this is an incredibly pedantic thing to gripe about. I don't mean to damn with faint praise - these actors are doing something difficult, and doing it well. What really gets me is that, when you're making a musical, you have all sorts of tricks to cover over these brief weaknesses, and La La Land often doesn't use them. The score feels oddly quiet, even in its more bombastic numbers. 'Another Day of Sun' starts things off, but the opening vocalist sings, rather than belting, and by making the score supposedly diegetic to start, there's not enough there to support her. I know I ended my last write-up by expressing gratitude that films were now available to watch outside the cinema, but this is an instance where I wish that I'd seen this years ago. I just couldn't turn my speakers up far enough to get lost in the spectacle.

Talking to people about this film, there seems to be an even split on this matter: either you can lose yourself in what's going on, or you can't, and if you're in the latter camp, the musical side of La La Land is too banal. It's colourful and pretty - filmed gorgeously by Linus Sandgren - but I'm reminded of the maxim of musicals, attributed to Rob Marshall: "When movement isn't enough, you dance, or when speaking isn't enough, you sing." A few people I've asked about the film raised similar ideas - that it feels like Chazelle is trying to force an exuberance from his audience when there's not enough genuine emotion to support it.

This is what makes the second half of the film better for me, and this is where I found myself able to embrace the film more. The latter half of Mia and Seb's relationship, once they've actually fallen in love properly, is powerfully-acted, and the reprise of 'City of Stars' is beautiful. The break-up scene is absolutely stellar, and either Gosling and Stone could justifiably call this one of the best scenes of their career. In a musical, though, this height of emotion would normally call for a song or a dance, and there isn't one here. The emotional height that does get a song is Mia's audition, where she sings 'The Fools Who Dream' in what appears to be a single take. This is an excellent performance, and it alone could have been responsible for Stone winning the Best Actress Oscar that year. Then, of course, once Mia and Seb have briefly reunited, they share a fantasy sequence that is filled with a longing that's deeply affecting.

The thing that upsets me most about the film is that once you've started dissecting it, you see how underwritten parts of it are. The opening leaves its characters adrift, trying to sell you on optimism and exuberance that don't have enough of a foundation - no matter how many BMX stunt riders and parkour experts 'Another Day of Sun' crams in, it feels thin - and even the break-up scene is mostly successful because Stone and Gosling have easy chemistry and the ability to sell you on ideas by injecting them with emotion. That doesn't prevent the central conflict from seeming like a contrivance.

Seb is, admittedly, insufferable at times (I'm not going to get into whether he's a white saviour of jazz, because plenty of people have made arguments on both sides of that topic and I could easily agree with either camp). I think his biggest flaw is that he's unable to articulate his motivations, which makes the conflict a bit of an idiot-ball plot. Faced with having to explain why he's 'sold out' by joining Keith's group rather than following his passion for pure jazz, he can't do it and immediately belittles Mia. It feels like it would be easy to explain that someone could find satisfaction in playing two different subgenres of jazz, and even playing them off each other to push the boundaries of music further. That feels like something Seb would genuinely believe in (and something that Chazelle, being a musician, would also be familiar with). It would also open up opportunities for more complicated conflicts - a jazz battle! A tortured artist number! - without affecting the overall plot. I just don't think the film has the expansiveness to tackle it.

Yeah, this sounds like I'm trying to assassinate the film. I liked it, honestly. I was still humming 'City of Stars' a week later, and it made me like Stone and Gosling more as actors, which I hardly thought possible. All the breathless excitement, though, about the film resurrecting a genre, and changing the course of film history... it was overblown, without a doubt. La La Land proved that these films could still be made, and very successfully. The fact that so many modern musicals are either adaptations of things proven to work, or jukebox musicals where the plot is largely incidental, shows that crafting a fully successful musical is not just about the songs but about the plot that links them. La La Land does it better than most, but it's not what I was craving it to be.

[ivyheaven]

"I suppose you'll be the judge of that, how fair I am." How wrong he was, that made her shoulders slump just a bit. If anything, she was leaps and bounds behind everyone else on the morality scale. It wasn't something Gianna gave thought to often, but the reminder often brought a twinge of sadness. It reminded her of the way her sister talked of her, same words with unbridled pride. "J dog, yep I'm making note of that, so I don't end up anywhere near there."

Of course, she should've guessed from their first interaction - he was going to be a rollercoaster. The challenge was welcome, as long as Gianna knew she could actually keep up with him, and not let him run free. "I'll keep up, as long as you're not the one that sends me into early retirement."

Gianna watched carefully as he smirked, and the fifty fifty scale of achieving what Karina wanted, deviated just a bit. But, she told herself that it was still doable. "You're talking a big game here, I hope you can live up to it on the field." If it wasn't so accurate, Gianna would find this display very captivating - to watch him analyze on the spot. She didn't confirm or deny it, but there was a small smile there. One that didn't allow her to hide. "Maybe so. Super reliable source, you convinced me."

She thought about his question, more than she wanted to admit. He wasn’t wrong. Everyone sought romance. She did once. “Do they? What do you envision then for your compatible person?” It was said that you could learn a lot from who you gravitated towards. “I guess you have a point, but there’s a gap between craving it and receiving it. Lot of people are alright living in that in between.” To that, Gianna had to chuckle. That was one way to describe her time with him. “Hm, well who do you picture me with? Maybe someone from the lab?”

She made a show out of her hum, pondering for ages if she could. Gianna observed carefully, each movement was a peek into who he was and how he reacted to things. “Based on both, perhaps. Would one answer amuse you more than the other? It doesn't change the story either way.”

“So, you like quiet and lack of chaos in your personal life?” Of course, she was assuming - piecing all the details he gave her. “That’s what I like to hear,” she confirmed with a decisive nod. It’s really all she needed. For the new recruits to follow her lead, everything else falls into place shortly after. “I do, yes. It was nothing special, but I remember it because I was so excited to finally be let out on the field." Gianna shrugged in agreement. "You'd be surprised. Sometimes agents figure out they don't like this work, a few missions in. So, I always like to ask every step of the way."

She followed after him, amused by the quickness in which he moved towards the door. "We do, well they're just adjacent. You sit on the left side. Tough choices, how do you handle sushi? There's a place two blocks from here." But, even if they hadn't decided, they made their way out of the break room and out of the building.

He was beyond amused and an apology was far from what he needed but it was still nice to see even a little flicker of a real person behind that tough exterior most agents held. "Mmm. Being fair. That makes you leaps and bounds better than the people here." In a way he was looking forward to it. See if he could impress her. He didn't know for what reason exactly but he now had a target. He chuckled and nodded his head. "Roberts Johnathan was his name. Called him J dog on his dog tag." Another ridiculous thing the soldiers all carried with them to show their brohood.

"You said it," he smiled as nothing got revealed. "That is now up to you to find out if the job hasn't yet made you old." Mikey teased, already having more fun than he had at the academy. The interesting thing about talking to someone was how anything could trigger curiosity. It seemed now they were on an even playing field.

One look toward her, where his eyelids fanned across his cheeks and that smirk that should be considered lethal, he sighed. "Why ruin your fun when you can find out when we're out on the field together."

He took a look at her the kind that truly saw her through the facade of superior. "Mmhm you're aware but there's a slight modesty there. Almost like reveling in the fact that the thought of being feared is a turn on." Mikey read people like he read files. It came too easy for him and yet, he couldn't stop himself from pushing that boundary. "I mean, I could pull out the bro dude source. Trust me, bro."

Giving a shrug, he couldn't really tell. "Unsure but doesn't everyone have a vision of who they'd like to be compatible with? Reason why romance books sell off the shelves. Everyone craves a little romance. No matter how hard shell they are." Salazar, now that was a name. As he flipped through his memory bank to remember what the guy looked like he hummed. "Saucy. Didn't quite picture you with that type."

There was a slight half breathed laugh that emitted from him as he leaned over to one side, pushing his back against the chair. He couldn't handle her. Seemed like a challenge he was ready for. "Is that based on assumptions or size?" Either one would have him curious to get an answer to. Fraternizing with the fellow agents wasn't a smart idea but he knew no rule book actually condemned that.

"I won't lie. It is quaint and quiet. Makes reading over books a little less chaotic." Time, it seemed like he'd have a lot of. He noted that and nodded along. "I'll follow your lead." Or would he? He knew Karina gave him a pretty big leash but how much would be too much for her to pull the reins back. "Do you remember your first op?" Shaking his head no. "It's fun to shed a layer and find another version of yourself. Not many people can do that not unless you're an actor. If I minded though, I wouldn't be in this line of work."

He rose up from his chair the moment she did and hopped over to the door to get it for her. "Ladies first," he gestured as the door opened. "Sounds like a plan. Do we have joined desks? But the more important question is where do you wanna go?"

[acourtofthought]

So what you say in your answer is that SJM will do Elucien and Gwynriel for fanservice? She said that she didn't care what others wanted.

Is that how you took my response?

I hope that's not how it came across at all because the ask was "will SJM go the route of E/riel to make Elain more likeable?

And I responded as to why I actually think that would have a reverse effect. More than half the fandom already dislikes E/riel because of how the author herself has written their story so far, leading a lot of readers to feel Az is interested in Elain for all the wrong reasons, so there's no way pairing her with Az to make her "more likeable" would work, regardless of Az being popular. Otherwise, more than 50% of the fandom would already ship E/riel.

It's not just about that though. Regardless of who she ends up with, readers are still going to need to see more from her character to truly like her (not that I need that but I have seen complaints others have had). And I'm adding this now but E/riel wouldn't make Elain more likeable because it would them seem like SJM rewrote her entire character in order to make her a match for Az, pushing the narrative that the female who dislikes cruelty must suddenly change who she is in order to accept a life with a torturer. I also never said SJM couldn't still go the route of E/riel if that's what she wanted, I simply said going the route of E/riel wouldn't be something that in my opinion, would make Elain "more likeable" for a few reasons.

The question wasn't "who do you think SJM has always intended as endgame?"

The question wasn't, "do you think SJM will go the route of E/riel because they're compatible?" (which they're not but again, wasn't the question).

The question wasn't, "do you think SJM will write Elucien just to appease fans?"

It was a very specific question which I answered directly.

I'm sure over half the fandom was rooting for Nessian to end up together, same with Feysand but that doesn't mean SJM did fanservice to make that happen. I think it goes to show that sometimes what SJM plans and what the majority of readers want CAN in fact match up. It shows that a good portion of the readers are picking up on what she's trying to tell us while simultaneously still making it look like a "will they, won't they" scenario?

I don't think Elucien is fanservice as I think they are always who SJM intended as endgame (just with a rocky journey to get there). The point of Elain's journey is to have her question where Fate has brought her to decide if it's what she wants. To me, SJM always knew Elain was going to need a rebound of sorts (after Graysen) and that's the role Az played but it doesn't change that eventually she and Lucien will find their way to one another. I mean she did mention the tension, growth and healing they'd have together way back when (before she was signed on for the spinoffs) so I don't know how anyone could cry fanservice if they are endgame when she spoke about them in interviews from the very start.

People can dislike or like a specific pairing without someone needing to bring the fanservice argument into things, they are not mutually exclusive. Me saying over half the fandom wouldn't like Elain ending with Az and would prefer her with someone else has nothing to do with fanservice. It's just common sense that if they don't care for E/riel, they're not going to like Elain more simply because she ends up with him since he's a popular character.

Fanservice seems to be something only E/riels bring up because they can't admit that maybe, just maybe, SJM has planned on an Elucien endgame all this time (despite where Elain is currently at) and they need an argument in place if Elucien does happen, one where they don't have to admit they may have been reading the clues wrong all along.

If SJM truly paid any mind to fanservice than I think she'd be less worried about the likability of who Elain ends up with a decide to go the route of E/riel simply because she's more concerned about the death threats she receives from E/riels 🤷

[omniscientwreck]

Let me combine both of your favorite things! I would love a little thing about Caduceus (in his infinite wisdom and questionable intelligence) trying to give either Essek or Caleb relationship advice that may or may not be actually helpful. Those two wizards are probably too much in their own heads to see what's right in front of them and could use a little nudge. Just imagine both of them going to Caduceus for advice on how they're attracted to the other and Caduceus just sitting there trying to fight to urge to facepalm.

Hello! Thank you for combining my two favourite things into this fic that took way too long but I'm quite pleased with! I hope you enjoy!

In which Caduceus has three conversations with two wizards fighting against a force bigger than either of them.

----------

The first of these conversations Caduceus had was expected. Gardening alongside Essek, teaching him how to sow beauty where destruction had laid waste had been therapeutic for both of them. Caduceus had never given up on the war criminal. It’s difficult to feel no sympathy for someone whose story was written across their face in blank but pleasant stares and a mask of platitudes.

The state he’d been in when they met him at the outpost had filled Caduceus with determination. He’d been as close to a wreck as they’d ever seen him and now kneeling alongside him and looking over to see a small self-satisfied smile as he observed the work they’d done, it feels like they’ve done something right. This second chance had been well earned and he has faith that Essek will continue to earn it for the rest of his days.

This Essek is determined to right wrongs, and he’s started with the garden. He pays careful attention to the plants, always asking if he’s unsure about the compatibility of certain species, and making sure to put them exactly where they tell him. When they work past the point when the sun disappears behind emerald leaves he takes off the gloves Jester had made him and digs his hands into the ground. It seems to bring him peace, it’s good that he’s found any.

Most of the time when they work it’s silent, creases pressed into Essek’s forehead. He sweats through the layers that serve to keep him safe from the heat overhead and always has to be cajoled into taking breaks or drinking water. It reminds him a bit of Yasha.

On the third day, when he’d nearly gone faint Caduceus has to intervene, “You don’t need to hurt yourself to repent you know.”

Essek takes great care to swallow and not choke on the water he’d been sipping, bad timing. The mask comes up again, “I don’t know what you mean.” he states flatly. He knows that Caduceus is smarter than that and it shows.

“Hurting yourself doesn’t change anything. It’s the creation of beauty here that tips your scales, not the destruction of yourself.”

He nods slowly, indigo eyes downcast. “I suppose you’re correct. I have much to atone for Caduceus. There is much work to be done before I will deserve any of the kindness you foist upon me.”

“Hey now, I decide who deserves my kindness. We all do.”

Essek nods again, running a dirt stained hand through his silver hair. It leaves streaks of dirt, Caduceus says nothing.

“It’s difficult to be made aware of your stark moral failings, to learn what it means to truly care for someone again. It’s difficult to care more than you expect and to know what is enough, if anything is.”

His eyes flick behind Caduceus, where he can hear Caleb explaining something to Luc and he understands more than Essek probably wants him to. “You’ll find enough.” Essek looks at him, eyes full of a delicate hope, easily shattered, “He’ll tell you when it’s enough.”

His eyes widen just slightly and a deep blush spreads across his face alongside a smile so small it’s like he doesn’t want to let himself accept the barrage of feelings it holds back. “If.” His voice is small but the weight is heavy in the tone.

Caduceus reaches a hand to cover one of his, “When. Remember, I see things the rest of you don’t.”

Essek smiles wryly at that, voice full of mirth, “Of course Mr. Clay the ever observing.”

They go in for dinner and Essek speaks up a little more, he’s a little more alive. The change is small, but Caduceus notices.

----------

The second conversation is less expected, completely unexpected if he’s being honest. Caleb arrives at the doorstep of the grove one evening around 8 months after they’d last seen each other. “Hallo friend, I hope I am not intruding.”

His smile is easier now, though still restrained by sadness. “Not at all Mr. Caleb you are always welcome here. There should be left overs from dinner, fix yourself a plate.”

Caleb allows himself to be ushered in and fussed over. He tells a few stories of the trial but Caduceus tries to steer away from that particular vein of conversation. It’s raw and it doesn’t look like he’s fully healed. There’s still one catch somewhere that he needs to loose himself from before the smile will be easy and free, before he can walk away from his past and toward the future.

“I am going to Aeor next.”

Ah.

When Caduceus doesn’t say anything he continues, voice laced with trepidation, “I am going to ask Essek to join me.” he wants Caduceus to convince him of something.

“Well, two wizards is better than one.” He eyes Caleb knowingly and the wizard squirms a bit under his gaze.

“It is just, a little strange isn’t it? The directions we are led in.” He trails off again, maybe he’s hoping for wisdom. Caduceus decides he can probably dispense something.

“You’ve never seemed like someone who wanted much to be herded into decisions to me.”

“It’s been a journey.”

Caduceus clears his dish and sets down a teapot, “It’s a journey you’re still on. One that might not have a definite end. Is it worth it to deny yourself happiness because you’re worried about whether you deserve it?”

That caught him a little off guard, copper hair shook a bit as he’d clearly gone a little further than Caleb was expecting. He likes to talk in metaphors so that he can hide from truths later, or at least pretend everything can have multiple meanings. It’s time for Caduceus to stop letting him twist words around in that expansive brain of his until the original meaning is obscured by hypotheticals.

“I cannot tell you what’s right Caleb, but if you came here for a reasonable perspective listen to the one I’m giving you.” He pours the tea and offers honey, “You will never know if you don’t go and I know you better than you think. You don’t like loose ends, not as long as there’s something to learn.”

He nods, staring into tea, they’re so similar and so stubborn that Caduceus can feel the loving annoyance usually directed at his siblings creeping in. “Caleb, stop punishing yourself for something that wasn’t your fault in the first place.” Caleb nearly interrupts but Caduceus keeps barrelling through, “Self-flagellation won’t get you anywhere, you’ll just end up with regrets and what ifs. Go explore Aeor, forget everything else for a bit. Do that thing the two of you do where you’re finishing each other’s sentences and nobody knows why you’re bothering to speak out loud because it’s obvious you’re thinking the same things.”

Caleb’s smile is smaller now, but lighter. “Ja mein Freunde, I think you will. Thank you for tolerating questions I don’t know how to ask out loud.”

Caduceus smiles back, “I think this will be good. If you need anything while you’re there don’t hesitate to reach out. Stock up on healing, you’ll need it.”

Caleb laughs at that and spends the night, before heading to Zadash the next morning, undoubtedly to clear out Pumat’s stock of healing potions.

----------

The third time this conversation is had it’s his fault. He doesn’t mean to start it, but honestly the situation is getting ridiculous and the sibling feelings Caduceus has to both the wizards are firmly cemented.

They decide to get everyone together maybe a year after the last conversation. It’s his first time seeing any of them since then and as soon as they’re all in the same room it’s like no time has passed at all. Essek had come to get him while Caleb gathered the rest at Beau and Yasha’s home in Rexxentrum. Jester wraps him in a crushing and loving hug, Beau gives him a punch that’s soft for her but still stings, Yasha offers clippings of flowers immediately, and Fjord’s hug is warm. Veth’s family is here and she looks happier than he’s ever seen her. Caleb greets him with the warmth that’s always burned behind eyes that hold less and less sorrow every time he sees him. He hopes they’ll drop it all together one day.

When they pop back into existence from the way Caleb and Essek look at each other Caduceus expects something to happen. He doesn’t know what exactly but they hold each other’s eyes in a profound way. There’s gravity to them and everyone can feel it, he’s getting tired of watching them fight it.

It seems so simple even though he doesn’t feel that kind of pull, to see where this is going. It’s feels like the days before a big storm, when everyone knows what’s coming and it’s getting a little ridiculous that you’re still waiting for lightning to strike.

Everyone else drinks, they cook and eat and tell stories. Caleb and Essek sit apart but spend the entire time stealing glances across the table when they don’t think the other is looking. Nearly always they catch each other.

Yasha plays on the bone harp, she’s gotten very good and Jester swings Veth around into a dance. Kingsley, three sheets to the wind, grabs Beau and whips her into a reluctant dance and her initial protests eventually bubble into laughter. Caleb sits beside Caduceus and Jester has switched to twirling a flustered Essek across the floor of the livingroom. It often turns to dancing with these people and he loves that they love it so much.

“As I recall you’re an excellent dancer Mr. Caleb, go cut in.”

He shakes his head, “Ah- I couldn’t. Yasha is playing and I don’t think you’re much of a dancer.” He looks over with a quirk of a brow.

“I’m sure Jester won’t mind a break.”

He coughs at that, “I ah-”

Caduceus shakes his head, “No, talking is done, this is getting ridiculous.” He puts a hand square on his back and guides Caleb to stand, “You two will weave circles of metaphor around each other until one of you drops. Go Caleb, follow gravity.”

He seems to understand, seems to accept Cadcueus’ words and as soon as he stands to full height, Essek is watching over Jester’s shoulder. She, thankfully, understands the same way Caduceus does and even sends a wink as she loudly proclaims, “Oh my gosh Essek I’m so tired, I think Caleb needs someone to dance with, go to him.” She extends her arm, releasing him, and his levitation doesn’t allow him to stumble at the abrupt change in momentum.

Essek and Caleb meet and Essek steps to the ground gracefully as Caleb holds his hand out and pulls him in.

Nobody says anything for fear of spooking the delicate peace that settles over both of them as they gently turn, but Yasha slows the music she’s playing a bit and a quiet celebration is shared in the eyes of the rest of the Nein.

Caduceus breathes a sigh of relief and Jester sits herself beside him, bringing an overly sweet juice she’d found on her travels for him to try. She tells him stories into the night, and the wizards never let each other’s hands go.

[bonnymori]

𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐢 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠

Word count: 1200+

Contents/Warnings: (1) Fushiguro Megumi x gn!Reader (2) Classic training but no fighting scene I apologise (3) A... dirty humor joke? (4) Idiot in love cough cough (5) Laidback romance, this may become a pattern on my fanfiction :3

A/N: Hello, I introduce myself as Hara! This is my very first written piece! I would like to apologise for any typos, english is not my first language; that being said, I hope this works out alright! :)

It's around mid afternoon, the sky painted in a vibrant blue with multiple clouds scattered around, Fushiguro recalls having started training right after lunch; he politely declined Maki's suggestion of training together, it wasn't about strength or fighting hand to hand today, the struggle was his shikigami. Lately, he's been having problems over teamwork - before, he thought such a thing was impossible, since all of the shikigami were under one will alone, being his. Yet the amount of times the divine dogs have bumped into eachothers, sometimes Nue would simply skip past the target, not paying attention to it at all.

Or perhaps, he himself was to blame. Fushiguro likes thinking about you, more than he'd admit, but now it's starting to distract for real. That's what he need, to think of you- I mean, concentration! And maybe, new group attacks, that would do nicely, too.

He's been beating a tedious dummy for a hour and half now, maybe more. After managing to make up a combo or two, he sits down on the grass, just to breathe for a moment. Breathing is nice, he observes as the divine dogs go slack like their owner, now playing around with one another rather than chewing the dummies stuffing. His black and white snake is watching the banter between the canine shikigamis, tongue coming in and out just like a real snake. Nue settles upon the dummies ragged body, eyes closed- peacefully enjoying sunbathing. Fushiguro had no idea they were so lively until now, now he knew why people constantly asked if they could pet his shikigami.

He glances down at the frog supporting his arm, it's like they enjoy just laying on grass, just breathing like him.

"How many buddies out! Are you training today, Fushiguro?"

At the sound of your voice, you bet his lips casually turn upwars in a casual yet small smile. Kugisaki saw it from distance once, says she it's almost a robotic response.

"Yes, I'm training their cooperation." Fushiguro replies, swiftly getting up. He notices the frog from earlier making a beeline to you, as if to say hello.

So you crouch down and pets it briefly, smiling at the small creature.

"That ought to be hard, specially with a innefective dummy." You approach its remains, chuckling at all the stuffing and cloth scattered around. "Make me your target instead!"

Say what?

"I uh, come again?"

"I'll do the running and dodging, it's much practical this way!"

He has trouble accepting that, even if it's true. You mean more than an ally on his heart, and besides, that's some Itadori-level-recklessy. So he groans, slightly irritated and obviously, worried for your safety. "You'll get hurt."

"Don't we get hurt everyday? Even if there is an accident, I know you'll call them out and help me quickly, you notice things fast."

He does, Fushiguro would help you in a heartbeat- probably faster.

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, lash out on me!"

Putting 'lash' and 'me' in the same phrase got heat rising on his ears, but he complied nonetheless. "Just letting you know, I'll stand here and the shikigami attacks."

You protest. "Wouldn't it be better if you fought among them?"

"For today, I'd like to focus on their compatibility only."

"Oh, got it! Next time we can work on the latter option then!" Next time. He wants there to be a next time.

Even though you're the one troubling his mind in battles, he's head over heels. He remembers when it all started, your relationship is basically pools worth of quality time. You came along with Itadori, tangled into the mess back in Sendai. Strangely, Fushiguro clicked with you even faster than Itadori- your collected personality was a great factor, even though you are just as cheerful as the cherry boy.

"You're spacing out, what's up?"

Fushiguro's gaze snapped up to meet yours, realizing his mistake. "Ah, nothing, let's start." His hands folded as your guard rose, so it begun. If you noticed his lame excuse, you didn't comment about it.

The ravenette was pleasantly relieved how easily you could deceive and dodge his attacks, his shikigami may leave a tear or two on your clothes, that he didn't have to worry about, because they're easily fixable. Naturally, the toughest for you to dodge was mostly his snake, sometimes Nue would surprise you from above, nothing you couldn't handle. He started intensing up using the combined attacks, and immediately noticed your faltering steps, earning a bruise on your calf. Although neither he or you stopped, adrenaline rushing through veins nonstop.

You somehow finished training with a bite mark over your forehead, not deep enough to be worth worry. The instant your bodies came to slack, his shikigami ran to you like little children lost in a supermarket. At this point, it was pratically multitasking, to pet both demon dogs while trying not to run out of breath having Orochi wrapped around your midsection. Megumi flushed over the affectionate antics, knowing they were a manifestation of feelings within himself.

Now, you and Fushiguro are spawled on the training field, neither showered, coated with sweat sticking to your clothes, but it didn't matter much.

"I never realized, just how many cursed energy do you have? It's surprising how many shikigami you kept our for this long time." Fushiguro heard you shifting to sit up, and followed you up.

"A bunch." It was not a creative nor informative answer, but you took it in with a smile on your face anyway.

He watched you get up to fetch a drink, careful to not trip over the shikigami also scattered around -- Fushiguro always 'forgot' to put them away next to you.

You handed him a strawberry yogurt box, the same drink also sat in your hands. "Well then, why are you spacing out so much these days? You can be honest with me."

'She's oblivious enough, I'm in need of advice, it's convenient.' So he thought, figuring if he disguised it enough, you wouldn't be able to tell. It's not a big deal if you did, though, saves time actually.

"Something's on my mind, and it troubles me during fights."

"Simple, you can just come in terms with it."

He glanced down, "Why?"

"The sooner the better, when you accept something, it comes at ease on your mind. I'm a hundred percent sure it works!" You gave him a thumbsup, slurping on the pink drink.

"Such faithful source."

"I'm sure it does! The thought keeps coming back because you're denying it, am I wrong?"

Not really, no. Fushiguro wants to keep it as friendship for the sake of your both careers within the jujutsu world; he knows it's dangerous, yet a part of him just wants to say 'fuck it', like if he had the guts to. The ravenette thinks it's a way too much generic way to describe what he feels, but it's the easiest, so he goes with it anyway. The back of his brain fears rejection, part of the reason why he hasn't made a move yet.

"I'll try it out."

"Good!" And you're always supportive no matter what, to the point it charms him more and more everyday.

For now, he's okay keeping it platonic. But, when the day after tomorrow comes, he just might confess.

[absurdthirst]

Hi Keri! So i know this is a safe place to ask questions and stuff. I hope it's ok if I ask you and your followers for some advice. If not, then you can delete this ask, it's all good.

So, I'm gonna turn 24 this year and I'm a virgin. I've never been in a relationship or anything either and I don't know how to seek it out.

I make my rounds on dating apps now and then, but I don't know if it's because I'm genuinely interested in starting a relationship or if it's because I'm lonely and I want to talk to someone about sex or other stuff.

But most of the guys I talk to seem like they're moving too fast. I know I can always say no and anyone who doesn't respect those boundaries, I have no interest in being with. I just don't know how to actually assert myself and tell them I'm not comfortable with meeting in person until we've been talking for a couple of weeks. Or that I'm not looking to do anything sexual until I've known the guy for at least a month? (maybe longer?)

Like I'm not waiting for marriage or anything, but I'd like my first time to be with a guy I trust and maybe a little bit special. There's nothing wrong with one night stands, but I don't think that's what I'm looking for.

But also when is it a good time to discuss sexual compatibility with someone? Part of me doesn't want to date because I'm not sure if this person is into the same or similar kinks as me, which will come up eventually. Maybe having no experience with relationships means that I don't actually know what I need or want in a relationship?

On the other hand, sometimes I kind of retreat into myself and I'll ghost somebody without meaning to. By the time I check back in, it's always too awkward to respond. For example: "omg you talked to me for three days and then nothing for three weeks or a month, but then you respond to my texts like nothing happened?"? When is it awkward?

How do I keep myself in check and off the dating apps if I'm not ready for that? Or am I just going about this all wrong?

Sorry for the late night brain dump, and sorry if this is incoherent. I just feel like I keep making mistakes and I don't know how to do this right.

Only you can tell yourself when you are ready. I’m not 100% about the dating apps. I’ve literally never used one! 😂 (showing my age here) But I’ve also been married for 11 years. And had another marriage for 6 years before that. So…idk.

As far as sexual compatibility convos? It all depends. I love joking around and I would straight up have that convo. (My husband knew about me before he ever touched me. Lol)

It’s true you might not have the same kinks as one another, but that’s okay. Compromise is a big part of a relationship. Like my husband and I both agree that Daddy Kink is off the table, but my husband has some kinks that are a hard no but they aren’t my go to. Just like I have some that aren’t his go to. But if either one of us are the mood for that, as long as the other person is cool with it, we get to have our way. If not, we save it for another time.

The key is to talk and have open and honest communication with one another.

[rpmemesbyarat]

DISNEY'S "GARGOYLES" SEASON 2 QUOTES RP MEME

Why do you read that stuff?

I like a man who brings me weapons.

Nice wake up call.

We won't have to find them. They'll find us.

Revenge, as they say, is a sucker's game.

I'll settle for tearing this jerk IN HALF!

Want to see me use both hands?

That's no way to treat a lady!

That was no lady.

Thanks for saving my bacon before it got fried.

Look, just promise you'll call if there's trouble.

Go ahead, try something!

I'd love to do that again!

That wasn't a tranquilizer dart.

It was loaded with a mutagenic formula!

You don't know anything about her!

Why are you stomping on my friend here?

I was particularly proud of my death scene.

You never let me drive.

The important thing is, you're alive.

Are you sure this is a good idea?

Something's not right here.

Then you leave us no choice!

How are we supposed to find them?

Please, I beg you, be quiet.

This isn't a good idea.

I'm best qualified to go.

My memories are clouded.

Why should I trust you?

If you can't trust me, then trust your heart.

Why do you fight me, my love?

We are destined to be together for all eternity.

I will choose who I love!

Now we'll see what this creature looks like up close.

Why stare at marks on a page when you can rent the video?

Well, I can't read and I don't think I'm missing anything.

Harrier jets! They can take off and land like helicopters. When your life's this exciting, who needs books?

Are you all right?

I had a little trouble.

This beach isn't safe after dark.

Do you need a doctor?

Come on in. I've got a fire going.

There's little I can offer in return, except my thanks.

You understand, I don't get any real pleasure from this. Well you've got courage, beastie. I'll give you that.

Funny, something about your voice made me think you were a soldier, once.

You were there.

I'm old, but I'm not that old.

I'm glad you came back.

I'm afraid I can't stay, but I think I left something on the terrace this morning.

Have you come across a large canister?

The name sounded phony.

I do know him, but he's not a friend!

A magic book?

They're worthless. No magic at all.

The written word is all that stands between memory and oblivion.

Without books as our anchors, we are cast adrift, neither teaching nor learning.

Books are lighthouses erected in the dark sea of time.

Is this how you welcome all your guests?

They have a sense of humor. You have none.

Yeah, I know, you're as relieved I am that everything's back to normal.

Wouldn't it be great to be a shapeshifter?

Well, let's just get this over with, shall we?

How can I be of service, hmm?

Out with it. I haven't got all night.

I'm sure you'll fit right in.

What is it you really want?

This just might be fun after all.

I thought everyone knew this.

Shapeshifters, elves, fairies, you mean they're real?

You mean, you thought I was ugly?

I want you to get rid of the humans. ALL of them.

Does this look like Aladdin's lamp? I have limits, after all.

Humans love a battle hearty.

I'll never get the hang of jumping off rooftops.

I'll always be there to catch you.

Do it, and you win your freedom.

It will be my pleasure. But afterwards, I'm going to need a very long nap.

There. You're free.

The sun, it's glorious! I never thought that it could feel so good.

I'm sorry about the bomb. But it proves how dangerous this case is.

When someone messes with your partner, you're supposed to do something about it.

You still haven't learned that crime doesn't pay.

A trade?

Let's just say, I don't trust you with it.

So, now you know my weakness.

Only you would regard love as a weakness.

A momentary lapse, I assure you.

Halloween! Tonight is the night!

Come on. I've wanted to stroll down a city street with you for a long time.

Marry me.

Are you serious?

We're genetically compatible, highly intelligent, and have the same goals.

You could've been hurt. I should've been with you.

Oh-well, spilt milk. Let's move on to plan B.

Don't listen to him. It's a trick! He couldn't tell the truth if his life depended on it!

Even if what you say is true, why should I help her?

Because you know what it means to lose some you love.

Not a good night for you.

You can't believe anything he says.

If someone like him can love, perhaps there is some hope for this world.

Take this as token of my love.

Upon this I pledge my heart to you forever.

Why do you need all this?

I wanted it, so I took it.

It's so unlike you to attack first.

I simply invited you here to talk.

Our past encounters have not inspired me to trust you.

It's crazy to even consider going!

I'm not interested in reminiscing!

Have you no respect for anything?

Believe me, I know exactly how you feel.

I will never be like you!

I do not wish to hurt you.

I do not wish to be you!

What am I to do?

Do nothing.

Do not worry.

Live in the moment.

Attend the petty angers and jealousies that fill your heart.

Fortify yourself with love and trust.

Fulfill the vows of love you make, for they can surely save you.

Time travel's funny that way.

Get away from me, you sentimental fool.

It's a pretty good likeness.

You know more than you're letting on.

T'was your handiwork.

very life is precious.

Take care not to become what you fight against.

Vengeance begets only a further cycle of more vengeance.

Do you want vengeance or a solution?

This is bigger than either of us has ever faced.

We'll have to work together to stop her.

Truce?

You are the cause of all this.

Humans will learn to respect you.

I would rather they fear me.

What are you doing to help?

That's one way to settle an argument.

I thought I'd rid myself of you long ago

You've forgotten about me.

You're too late. You can't save them. No one can!

I'm not here for them. I'm here for you.

I want it over between us!

I wear this as a reminder of your treachery.

Let's not start that again. You blame me, I blame you. Aren't you tired of talking about it?

I'm not here to talk.

Killing me will gain you nothing but your own death.

Death is never the answer. Life is.

I'm just so tired

Your thirst for vengeance has only created more sorrow.

I offer you one last opportunity for forgiveness and mercy.

I merely offer a sample of what you planned for me.

You have learned nothing.

I will still have my revenge!

What do we do with them?

You come in handy now and then.

I'm quite glad the plan worked.

I'm no hero, I just do my job, and my job for tonight is over.

All I want to do is hit the sack.

Why would you want to hit a sack?

How long was I out?

Even shadows must be true to their shade.

We don't need to wait for sunset.

Is it supposed to hurt that much?

Just get on with it.

Recognize the woman?

She seemed familiar, but I just couldn't place her.

You're getting real good at bypassing alarms

Don't give me credit.

It was too easy!

Maybe misery loves company.

If you're human, then you're subject to human laws.

Either way I win!

I fear no human!

There are forces at war within me.

I will return some day, if I can.

You sound like every human employee I ever fired!

Crush all of them together and you couldn't squeeze one iota of personal integrity from the lot!

No excuses, creature!

Learn to take responsibility for your own actions! And STOP whining!

Oh, I am trembling in my chair.

You believe I am not responsible. Yet I remain your prisoner?

Who said you're not responsible?

It doesn't matter that you were tricked, you know now that your actions inflicted grievous damage. Do you take responsibility for them or not?

Well, what are you going to do?

You seem distracted, having second thoughts?

We'll celebrate over breakfast.

No more excuses. I accept full responsibility for my actions. I was wrong.

Integrity is never easy. It's a daily struggle, a costly struggle.

I know I owe you a great debt for the mistake I made a year ago.

If the text wasn't new to me, it was at least worth revisiting.

All I know is I'm about to be wiped out!

It doesn't have to be that way.

I can break these chains. But only you can get me past the bars.

Automatons know nothing of betrayal or honor. They know only what they're programmed to know.

Only living beings possess the ability to change, and make new choices.

You've given me much to consider.

We are friends.

I'd rather not have your death on my conscience

You'll never reach the bridge!

You have two minutes until impact, one minute before I detonate.

I don't want any innocents hurt!

If it goes down, I'm going down with it.

I knew you wouldn't let me down.

Yes, well, you have that effect on people.

I built this company for you!

I'd probably give it to you, if you'd just stand up and ask me for it honestly!

Asking for it wouldn't be any fun at all.

'Fun' is still more important to you than honor. I can't understand that.

Well, maybe you'll have better luck relating to the next generation.

You should've heard him laugh.

Made my hair stand on end, if I had any.

Surely you know I am not in the habit of playing childish pranks or laughing maniacally in the dark.

Do you even know how to laugh maniacally?

Don't tempt me.

Typical. You do and do and do for them, and what happens? They twist the knife in you!

I think I've created a monster.

Have you ever considered the bounties of genetic engineering?

Or maybe cybernetics is more your style?

Save the horror show for Halloween.

I'm sure tired of taking punishment, and I'd love to be able to give some back

That's the source of the trouble.

I hope you not planning to eat your catch.

Now that I'm in charge, I'm not taking any more of your cracks!

You're barely our species!

I'm in charge, here!

I find him very attractive.

Well, that's sicker than usual.

I'm a partner in a freak show!

I should'a figured it was crazy to stick with this crew

And if you play it smart, there'll be plenty of lettuce for everyone!

I should get my own cable TV show.

Oh, me and my big mouth.

It is the cure! It has to be!

Of course it's the cure! You must trust me!

It was you all along! I trusted you!

You turned me into a monster and I defended you!

I'm sorry it had to turn out this way.

You always overplay your hand

Tell me something' Why me?

You're old, and getting older.

I thought you might even appreciate the opportunity.

Growing old terrifies you, doesn't it?

Nothing terrifies me, because nothing is beyond my ability to change.

True immortality isn't about living forever, man; it's about what you do with the time you have.

When all your scheming's done, what will be your legacy

You're still alive! It's a miracle!

Boy, the city sure is different when it snows.

Not a bad life, all things considered.

There is a cure. There must be!

You can't keep me in here forever!

I'll get out! Do you hear? I'll get out!

About time you came back.

Why did you kidnap me? What do you want of me?

See, it wasn't as hard as you made it sound.

Ah, you wish to be immortal.

If the procedure is successful, I'll release you.

This is just a sculpture's model. The real thing is life sized, and lifelike.

What's in this for you?

Service is its own reward.

I wouldn't even know where to start looking.

You may as well be of some use to me.

Open this cage, and I'll show you how 'useless' I am.

It's hard to top that.

What you seek demands a heavy price.

Death and old age have their price as well. And it's too expensive for me.

Without your sword, you're helpless.

Swordless? Maybe. Helpless? NEVER!

What you choose to do with your life is your own affair, as long as it's got nothing to do with me.

You're just full of surprises.

No, let him go. He's earned it.

I wish it hadn't turned out this way.

I was so close to finding out if the legend was true. Now there's no one to test it on.

Throw down your weapon!

Is this a whole city of fools and lawless ruffians?

I'm the law here, pal!

You are a guardian, like myself.

I will submit to your law.

You are learning.

It will take some time.

Prepare to do battle!

I have no fight with you.

What is this, merit badge test night?

Oh well, better make sure it's an uneven fight.

The weak are to be protected, not exploited.

Aaah, who died and made you king?

If you don't know anything, why were you shooting at us?

Do I really need an excuse to have a good time in my own home?

They say a man's home is his castle, and what fun would a castle be without a dungeon?

If it gets any more saccharine in there, I'm going to put a finger down my throat.

I'd sure like to know how you got here, but I'm programmed to shoot first and ask questions later.

I demand a favor.

Death is always pointless. That is the point.

I demand reparation! My son was cruelly and unfairly taken from me!

Death is the ultimate fairness. Rich and poor, young and old - all are equal in death.

Our planet cannot support so many lives at once.

I apologize for any trouble I caused in my efforts to reclaim it.

It seems I'm out of practice dealing directly with mortals.

It seems I am unaccustomed to dealing with a god

We have all gained rare enlightenment this night

Mmmm, what a peculiar sight.

Now, that's odd.

Do you often go wandering about at night, young lady?

My dear, are you saying you don't remember your own name?

I can't seem to remember anything. I feel lucky I know how to talk.

How did I end up in the middle of the Pacific?

I guess I could use a ride

I thought you looked familiar. We've met before.

Do you know what a scroll is?

Get your claws off me!

You might want to reconsider your request.

We're gonna die!

I will not let anything harm you.

You win. I'll behave.

I cannot believe you pulled the trigger on me.

Just shut up and land.

I just don't remember! I'm not even sure I want to remember!

I understand your words, I simply do not believe them.

You have been long expected.

This trough is filled with acid. In about ten minutes its going to do a very nasty job on that soil carving, not to mention your rugged good looks.

It's my first real stab at clichéd villainy. How am I doing?

How are you doing this? No machine can hold me!

I should sue you for trademark infringement.

I've always considered myself a trickster at heart.

History cannot be changed.

You will not win!

What are you going to do? Bite my kneecaps off?

I know from experience the transforming power of a child's love.

The future is not written yet.

I have a sunny disposition and I'm always kind to animals

I've always respected you as a fellow inmate

He's a fool, but he may be useful.

I can work with that!

Now, now! That's your friends' genetic make-up you're insulting.

You are master now?

I should've known. But why this subterfuge?

Hey, I live for subterfuge!

I do not want escape, I want vengeance!

There's no such thing as "a little" vengeance.

No catches. No tricks. No strings.

So, things have come full circle.

You know how I feel about you, right?

[angelbrock]

con artist love - c.b oneshot

summary: two con artists hate each other but they're set on a mission together to rob a money laundering-staged bank. however, some things go out of hand. - A/N: This is my first ever imagine, i really hope you guys like this! <3 

warnings: SWEARING! SOME SWEET LOVIN 

 AU - SOME PARTS OF THE STORY IS BASED ON A TIKTOK ABOUT GOING FROM ENEMIES TO LOVERS - THE FALLING OFF A ROOFTOP THING - AND SOME OF IT IS BASED ON THE NETFLIX SERIES ‘THE GREAT PRETENDER’. 

masterlist

//

your point of view

i woke up to my alarm being blared at my face, to which i groaned at. i slammed my hand over the snooze button, burying my face back into my pillow as i slowly dozed off; until i felt something poke me from behind. i swatted it off, covering myself with my blanket. then, i felt something poke me once again.

"mmmh." i swatted at it for the second time.

"wake the fuck up!" i jumped up, spuinting my eyes as i adjusted myself to the light. i rubbed my eyes, furrowing my eyebrows intensely, "finally. you're such a heavy sleeper."

"what the fuck are you doing in my apartment, and why are you waking me up at," i looked over at my alarm, "seven in the morning." i rasped out.

colby, the asshole who woke me up, smirked in response, "sheesh, quit being a bitch," he rolled his eyes, chucking a piece of paper at me, "our boss assigned us to a mission, and unfortunately, it's with you." he stuffed his hands into his pockets. i groaned, throwing my head back in annoyance. "nice hairdo, by the way."

i shot a glare towards him, flipping him off before tying my hair up in a bun. "what's the mission." i asked blandly, taking the blanket off of me and getting out of bed.

"i just gave you the mission, cant you read?" i rubbed my temples.

"okay first of all smartass," i walked towards him, pointing my finger directly at his face, to which he brought his face back to avoid, “it’s 7am and i only fell asleep at four in the morning, so you either tell me what our fucking mission is, or you tell boss to find another partner for you. and i’m sure that you don’t want to get on his nerves either, do you bud?” his eyes were widened at the end of my sentence. i let out a gasp, feeling breathless when i finished talking. 

“jesus christ, someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning.” he spoke to himself more than anything, grabbing my finger and pushing it away from his face. “we have to rob a bank. but nobody gets hurt, the whole bank is just a setup for money laundering.” 

“is that it?” colby nodded, “that’s easy. when do we start?” 

“we have to be there by four.” my mouth went agape for a moment,

“then why the hell did you wake me up so early?!” i pushed his chest slightly, a yawn escaping my mouth. he smirked a little, 

“because you’re cute when you’re mad.” he nudged his shoulder against mine, “i’ll see you at two. and be ready with the equipment, i’m not lending you mine if you forget any.” i rolled my eyes at his statement. he walked out the door, flashing me a snarky smile before leaving. 

i pressed my tongue against my cheek, replaying his comment, you’re cute when you’re mad. hm, is that so? i sighed, well i cant go to bed now, since that blue eyed bastard woke me up. might as well start preparinng myself now. i picked up the paper that he that thrown at me earlier, actually bothering to read it. i pouted slightly then nodded, sounds good. 

TIME SKIP - 3:45PM 

i jumped when i heard a harsh knock on my door, but before i could even go and answer it, colby barged inside without warning. “yo grumpy, let’s go.” 

“do you always have to barge in like that, or?” i sarcastically questioned, grabbing my backpack and swinging it over my shoulder. he shrugged, 

“yeah, it’s just you. i don’t need to be polite to you, do i, hm?” he spoke back, smiling just as sarcastically. 

“i wish i hadn’t known you since sixth grade.” i scrunched my nose out of mockery. “let’s go.” he huffed out a laugh, walking ahead of me. i shut and locked the door behind me before i caught up to him. “okay, what’s the plan?” 

“we need to find the roof to this place, apparently there’s some spare room where the security cameras are located, you need to disable them and i’ll get the guards.” i nodded, the elevator ride being awkwardly silent after talking. 

“right, why exactly did boss choose me and you to be partners again?” i rose an eyebrow, fixing my beanie. 

“i don’t know, he said something about us two being compatible for this job,” i gave him a look, “yeah, that’s what my reaction was too. but apparently as much as me and you hate each other, we work really well together. skill-wise.” i just hummed back in response as we walked to my work car; a black jaguar sports car. “i’m driving.”

“uh, what?” i fake laughed out, “i hope you realise that this is my car.” 

“and i hope you realise that i’m the main getaway driver.” he snarkily replied back. i rolled my eyes, tossing the keys at him. he swiftly caught them, smiling sarcastically once again. i got into the passenger seat, putting my backpack near my feet, “aaalright,” he started, buckling his seatbelt, “you got your gear, or did you forget again.”

“fuck off.” i grumbled, looking out the window. god i hate this guy. or do you? the small in my head scolded me. i shook my head at the accusation. 

once we got to the destination, i furrowed my eyebrows at how fancy this ‘bank’ looked. “damn,” i shut the door of my car, getting my bag. “for a money laundering scheme, this place is fucking huge.” colby hummed in response, slinging his gear bag over his shoulder too. “okay, i see a back exit. there must be an emergency exit right above it, maybe we could climb up the ladder to it.” 

“you’re smarter than you look.” he pushed past me, i squinted my eyes at him in annoyance. 

“fucking dick.” i whispered to myself. walking behind him, keeping a close eye behind me. god, i wish i had a different partner. compatible, pshh. boss is fucking stupid to even think that. 

we eventually found an emergency exit, climbing up the ladder and into the building. we hid behind a wall that led to the security room, colby looks over his shoulder, “okay, we have to distract those guards, then we can get in there.” i didn’t respond, waiting for the sign for us to go. 

“hey! what’re you guys doing here!” my eyes widened, 

“oh shit.” i whispered, “we’re um-” before i could even finish my sentence, colby had already shot the four guards that had approached us with tranquilizers, which also caught the other two security guards’ attention, to which he did the same thing to them. “colby, what the fuck are you doing?!” i whisper yelled at him, opening the door quickly and walking in.

“saving us! what else?” i rolled my eyes,

“are you saving us, or are you trying to get us caught?!” i took my jacket off, sitting down at the computers. “because whatever you’re trying to do, is 100% going to get us killed!” i whisper yelled again. 

“shut the fuck up, as if you could think of anything better. ‘uh-i-we’. pfft.” he mocked me, chuckling to himself. “damn relax, it’s just tranquilizers, it’s not going to kill them. they’ll be awake in like two hours.” i clenched my jaw, staying quiet and focusing on hacking the security systems to disable them. 

“there’s so many cameras here, holy shit.” i typed in some codes, switching computers a few times. i had my eyes all over the screen, but colby’s eyes were on me. i could feel it. “stop staring at me dipshit, i can see you through the screen.”

“don’t flatter yourself, sweetheart. it’s not everyday that you have guys staring at you.” i turned my hand back to flip him off, causing him to chuckle. after a few seconds, all of the cameras had finally been disabled. i got up from the seat, 

“let’s go, let’s go!” i quickly hurried out of the security room, colby following me close behind. “i’m going left, you go right. there shouldn’t be any workers now. if anything happens-”

“-i’ll buzz you in, gotcha. now go.” we split up, i took my gloves out of my bag, putting them on and using a screwdriver to get the locks off. i stuffed one of my trash bags with all the money that was in the safe. 

i repeated this to about five other safes, i now had two big bags filled with $1000 bills. i was going to do my final round, just when colby had buzzed me in. “y/n! the dude that owns this money laundering place is outside the building, head up to the roof! and then i’ll tell you what to do! over n’ out.” 

“oh fuck,” i buzzed him in, “yes, copy that. over n’ out.” less than a second later, i hear some other guards screaming out at me, 

“whoever’s there! surrender now!” i slung the bags of money over my shoulders, sprinting past them, “GET HER!” i ran as fast as i could. i bolted up the stairs, taking one of my tranquilizer and shooting it at them. 

“y/n, we have backup here waiting, just make sure the money bags are tied and throw them over the roof. we’ll catch them.” colby buzzed in with me, “be careful, please don’t get hurt.” my eyebrows furrowed at the last sentence, feeling a slight flutter in my stomach. 

“o-okay. th-thanks.” i buzzed back with him. please be careful... never thought he’d be the person to care about someone like me.. 

i reached to the roof, doing as colby said; throwing the money bags over, “you got nowhere to go now, pretty girl.” i breathed heavily, 

“colby, help.” i whispered into the earpiece.

the group of guards began walking towards me, causing me to walk backwards towards the edge. i slipped a little, gasping then catching myself. “y/n, i’m gonna need you to trust me with this one, okay? please.” i furrowed my eyebrows in confusion. 

“what?-”

“just trust me,” he said into the earpiece, “i need you to jump.” my eyes widened.

“what?!” i whisper yelled, 

“what the fuck have you done to our money, bitch.” 

“just trust me y/n! jump!” i mentally cursed to myself, here goes nothing. i’m gonna die. 

 “you’re stuck with us now, get her!” before they could get close to me, i pointed my fingers into a gun position, 

“bye bitches.” then saluted to them, stepping off the edge. they all shouted for me, i was falling down two stories. yep, i’m dead. the air grew more tense and heavy around me.

i closed my eyes just as i thought i was going to land on the concrete grounds, i felt as if i was being embraced by someone. then, i heard the grunt of someone familiar, “are you alright?! y/n?!” colby’s worried voice called out for me. i slowly opened my eyes, seeing his face inches away from mine.

“colby?” i whispered lowly, feeling my eyelids getting heavier, i felt insanely dizzy. i hummed a little. he had caught me in his arms, holding me tightly. 

“oh shi-” was all i heard before passing out. 

TWO HOURS LATER

i heard faint voices as i slowly woke up. i was now laying on my bed. “congratulations to both of you, you both did amazing on this mission.” “thanks boss.” colby’s deep and tired voice responded back, i felt shivers down my spine when he spoke. “alright, i’ll leave you to it. tell her i hope she feels better.” i was now laying on my bed. 

the door opened and shut. i heard colby sigh, then i felt his hand cup my cheek; his fingers gently brushing a few strands of my hair away from my forehead, those same butterflies fluttered in my stomach. i shut my eyes tightly before slowly opening them, he retracted his hand away from my face. i gulped a little, opening my eyes completely. “bgh.” my hand went to the side of my temple, “ugh.” i groaned, my head was pounding. 

“grumpy’s awake,” i turned my head to the side, making eye contact with him. “how you feeling?” he quietly asked.

“like ten pounds of bricks took a shit on my head.” he laughed a little, watching me get up slowly. i groaned, my hand slipping, 

“woah, be careful.” he held my waist, getting up a little and helping me sit up. “you’re still a little drowsy.” i looked into his eyes as he helped me, trying to ignore the tint in my cheeks, his face was turning a little red too, he cleared his throat and sat back down. 

“what happened anyways?” i asked, pressing on the side of my neck, feeling it ache.

“one of those douchebags shot you with a tranquilizer dart.” i huffed, “but, we succeeded on our mission.” he smiled a little, “i guess we do make good partners.” i shrugged a little, 

“yeah, i guess we do.” i smiled a little. “thank you for saving me, by the way..”

“of course, i wasn’t going to let you die.” he looked away, “i can’t let that happen.” he mumbled under his breath. i bit the inside of my lip, trying to fight a smile. “thank you for trusting me.”

i breathed out a small laugh, “no problem.” it then fell silent for a long time before he spoke up.

“hey, grumpy,” i giggled to myself at the nickname, humming in response, “um..” i rose my eyebrows, indicating him to continue, “i- i just wanted to say that i’m sorry for treating you like shit all the time.. i just-” he sighed, gulping. “i-”

“just say it colby,” i softly spoke to him. 

he bit his lip out of nervousness, “i’ve liked you for.. years now..” holy shit, “and-and i know i don’t have a chance with you, but, after seeing you in danger today, i couldn’t see the sight of you ever getting hurt. and i completely understand if you don’t feel the same about me, but i-” i cut him off, getting up and cupping his cheeks before caressing my lips over his. he was taken aback from the kiss, but slowly melted into it. 

he brought his hands over my hips, pulling me on top of his lap. i ran my fingers through his hair as our lips moved softly. fitting together perfectly. i pulled away for a moment, “i can’t believe i’m saying this,” he pecked my lips gently, “but i like you too colby.” he smiled, i copied his expression before kissing him once again. 

“thank fucking god.” he mumbled against my lips. i giggled. continuing to kiss him. he got up from the chair, my thighs wrapped around his waist as he led us back to my bed, laying me down and getting on top of me. “who knew con arists like us could ever fall for each other.” our noses brushed against each other, looking deeply into one another’s eyes.

“who knew.” we smiled before kissing once again. 

that, is cliche isn’t it. oh well.

[bookofmirth]

I think there's a disconnect in this fandom when it comes to shipping and viewing characters on an individual scale. For instance, I can like a certain character and not ship him/her with XYZ. Or....I can dislike a certain character and not ship him/her with XYZ. The whole point of shipping is to ship two people you feel are compatible with each other.

Lately it seems people forget to separate the characters from their ship (it's all or nothing) and I think that's part of what leads to the negative discourse in this fandom because people get protective of their ship when someone else has a different opinions.

It's either, "you're delusional!" or "you only ship A+B together because you hate C."

The first comment quite frankly doesn't warrant a response because people are allowed to ship whoever they genuinely want and shouldn't be called out for it. As for the latter, I don't particularly find an issue with it because people have their reasons to dislike a character so why would they stans a couple they're not fond of? As an example, I'm going to use Azriel and Elain (let me preface this by saying I'm Feysand all the way so I'm not particularly invested in the other couples. I'm really just along for the ride because I need more Feysand 😅). Back to my point, people forget that there are valid reasons to dislike Azriel or Elain separately or together. That does make the people who don't stans these two together toxic but it seems people often equate it to mean the same when they are not.

Toxic is saying Elain or any other character should die just because. Toxic is straight up bullying other stans for having a different opinion (name calling, lack of trying to understand where they're coming from etc). Toxic is telling an OP to go kill himself/herself/themselves.

I think if people will just take off their shipping goggles for a hot minute and actually have an open mind, we can all understand each other a little better.

You don't stans Elain & Lucien together because he makes her uncomfortable? I can see where you're coming from. Let me tell you how I look at it.

You think Azriel has a disturbing mentality and pattern with putting women on a pedestal. Interesting. Let me tell you what I think.

You think Rhys was in the wrong to keep the the risk of Feyre's pregnancy from her. Here's what I think.

We don't necessarily all have to agree with each other but gaining different perspectives and keeping things civil is what makes fandom fun. At least...that's how it used to be.

Anyways, hope I made sense.

Have a lovely day!

I wish more people thought like you, anon. It would be super great if people could just step back and remove the ship that has been surgically attached to their personality, and realize that the ship is made of two characters who are individuals who have separate histories and potentially separate futures (in the sense that not every single second of my life revolves around my partner, no matter how close we are.)

The whole "you're delusional" thing, you're right, it doesn't actually warrant a response. It's an ad hominem attack and is really effective at derailing conversation, but it's... pointless. None of us are delusional at this point, even people I completely disagree with lmao. We all have the way we read the previous books, and the next ones don't exist. It's really a silly comment to make, and I usually try to let it roll off my back.

The "you only ship A + B because you hate C" is also sooooo annoying. First off, so what if I did? I can hate whatever character I want. Second, you don't know that I hate C? I could have very valid reasons for not liking that ship. Like you said, maybe I just don't see them as compatible together but I can still like them as individuals. I like Elain - I don't ship her with Az because I don't think they are compatible at all. (Again, that would require people seeing the characters as individuals in the first place.) (Also if anything, can I just say, if people want to say that I don't them because I hate a character, it would definitely be for my dislike of Azriel. At least get that straight.)

God it must be weird being in this fandom still just for feysand. What a relatively peaceful existence. You must be laughing at the rest of us constantly. 😂

Your examples at the end are perfect, and it's what I personally want to encourage more. But there is an important thing you did:

LISTEN. OMG we need to listen to each other, not just assume "oh you're a gwynriel insert fandom baggage and history here".

Explain our perspective without judging. Just as a counter. A possibility, because none of us can be right 100% of the time and that's okay.

I'm honestly not sure why these things are so hard. Or when they become difficult. It was NOT like this before acosf came out. I miss the old days, even though I felt like I had hardly anyone on my side in shipping elucien.

I hope you have a lovely day as well!

[thedaythealienscame]

on my phone so this might contain errors but i have a lot of thoughts re: an "adam becomes an apprentice" au. not bad ones I just think the concept is honestly incredibly interesting + there's small things from the movies that support this line of thinking. even more interesting when you add in his relationship with amanda

tl;dr - it makes me SAD for all of them it's such a shitty situation for anyone to be in

by design, you feel bad for him. when you meet him he really has done nothing wrong other than be a cheaper pi because he has no license. his game is unwinnable from the beginning. so the idea that he was somehow saved (which i think would be more in-line with jigsaw's attitude now that we've had a retcon via the jigsaw movie (and logan)) is great! and then twists into something very sad afterwards

because if lawrence was saved by john, adam couldn't have been saved by anyone else and it puts him in a really vulnerable position since (a) he's being looked after by either hoffman or amanda, a woman He Has Met Before, in what is obviously not a hospital, and since that has now happened... (b) he's seen their faces AND john's face. there's no way that they can let him leave until he becomes complicit in their crimes somehow. which isn't even a sure bet tbh, because he might just tell someone anyway

there's two different routes that could be had here:

the best course of action is honestly to give him a safehouse with someone after he gets out of a real hospital and get him to do things away from where they're building traps. most obvious thing to do For jigsaw is the pictures/stalking for before. otherwise, since he isn't a missing person, let him do normal people things

the other is to keep him locked up in a basement somewhere but I'm not. a fan

the biggest OTHER problem is his relationships with everyone else. particularly john and amanda

john is for obvious reasons, but like. he knew amanda before, albeit barely. he might be able to brush off her being there with some ideas that she wasn't involved at all in his game nut like. she was. and she harbours a lot of guilt over the fact that he almost died so like.. the truth will have to come out eventually, right? and i cant imagine he would take it well, and she seems to care a lot about what other people think of her of the way she acts around john and hoffman is any indication, so she wouldnt be happy about that.

they're also probably, like, the most compatible friendship-wise, and you cant make a lot of friends when you're in a situation like that. idk if they would ever make up, I'm hoping they would, but it's not a guarantee

i dont think it would be far fetched to assume that he'd live with another apprentice while he was getting back on his feet (if he ever does at all), or that they would all live in one house together--not counting the time amanda spends with john in abandoned factories just because that's what's convenient and cheapest for everyone. he probably wouldn't Like It but you know. also the idea of lawrence getting partial custody of diana and being able to see her on weekends/every other week is funny if he had to introduce some new roommates that are just like. two jaded people in their mid/late 20s

also, depending on where you want this story to go, saw iii may have to be completely cut out of the timeline. if you want saw iii i do t think that there's any way adam would sti k around considering john and amanda have died and he's filled his purpose. idk if he would flee or just distance himself from hoffman, it really depends

if you dont want that to happen the i thi k itd be good for everyone if john just died like. alone. and either way they would all probably have to leave town or lie low for a long time

anyway. that's all my thoughts sorry i've spent a good hour and a half just thinking about this and typing it all out i love them all a lot

[acourtofthought]

I don’t really pay attention to E/riels because their brand of stupid is contagious, but I gotta admit I AM going to enjoy their collective meltdown when Elucien get their book 👁 👅 👁

Like… they are even more compatible than Feyfey and Rhysie (and these two remain my favs in the books). All they gotta do is start talking and it’s DONE. The bond snapped for BOTH the moment the cauldron released Elain. Lucien literally tapped into powers he didn’t even know he had to get to her - and he’s OLD. Like, he went so long not knowing but the moment he sees Elain, shit starts happening.

That bonus chapter confirmed Elain and Azriel are not only not in love and hiding it from everyone, but that they’ve barely even spoken to each other in 2 years. That ship is dead and gone. Snapped in half and sunk quicker than the Titanic.

They are, aren't they?

I LOVE Rhys and Feyre and their compatibility (because they are similar when it comes to the important stuff) but they never stood out as enjoying the same things in terms of their interests. Feyre likes to paint, Rhys doesn't display any real interest in the fine arts. He might have a glass of wine here or there but Feyre always seemed to be getting tipsy with Mor (no shame in that!). I can't really think of any hobbies that they have in common. Do we actually know anything that Rhys likes to do in his downtime? I guess he made that model of space in SF but again, that's not something we know Feyre has an interest in.

Lucien and Elain not only share similar core values but they seem like they would be best friends who enjoyed doing the same things. They already both enjoy the outdoors, it's canon that Elain enjoyed strolling through the village and window shopping while Lucien remarks on the furnishings in Rhys's home and where he believes he purchased them from. They both enjoy parties and socializing. They're seriously adorable.

It's actually a bit strange people are surprised that SJM wrote it so Elain avoids Lucien right now. First, there are a million emotions she probably has about the entire thing. Why would anyone think she should be getting to know Lucien who is attached to the most permanent and powerful bond two people can share after her fiance left her? It's easy to have a crush on Az because he comes with zero strings. Nothing about the emotions and connection she has with Lucien is easy and she deserves a little "easy" after everything she went through before getting to the heavy. Second, when have either Elain or Lucien ever lashed out? If they were to talk it would be us watching two reasonable, well spoken people having a conversation and that doesn't make sense in someone else's book. SJM needs to create uncertainty and drama until it's time for their book. I'm not saying we won't see a little heat in their interactions but I doubt it's going to be aggressive in the way Nessian was.

And your Titanic analogy for E/riel couldn't be more fitting. Sure, that voyage showed promise for some but too many things went wrong for there to ever be hope it would reach it's course.