#they're such a dork when they come out of their shell a little

[sae-mian]

mask: Does your OC wear a mask, literally or figuratively? What goes on beneath it? Is there anyone in their life who gets to see who they are under the mask?

mask: does your OC wear a mask, literally or figuratively? What goes on beneath it? Is there anyone in their life who gets to see who they are under the mask?

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Nira'sae learned to dull themselves very early. Their mother was desperate to keep them safe, and taught them how to be, to the best of her ability. To be plain - ordinary. To blend in.

Hence, it's this blunt, muted-version of themself that they wear like a mask in public. It was at it's worst in ARR - warped into something more cynical and apathetic in SB and SHB.

The perk of dying and coming back, I suppose, is the opportunity to reset. Instinctually they still default to the mask in public, and around people they don't know, but it isn't quite as sticky. They don't try so hard to maintain it, more willing to let themselves be.

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oc asks: not-so-nice edition

[luminary08]

I decided to draw some reference sheets for my agents/ocs so I wanted to post them here! Here is a quick rundown of everyone:

Ira/Agent 3/Captain:

Demigirl, They/Them, 15/17/22(Splatoon 1/2/3)

Laid-back and hardworking

Loves acting as the “cool and aloof mentor” but is actually a dork

As much of a Cuttlefish as Callie and Marie, thinks of them as older sisters and treats Cuttlefish with a lot of respect, lived with them when they became Agent 3, they moved out but they eventually moved back in again. They welcomed Ira back with open arms

Currently lives with the Squid Sisters in their apartment

Darby/Agent 4:

Trans guy, He/Him, 16/21

A social introvert with a heart of gold

Is the younger brother of Karla

Bro he has a little bit of anxiety

Was only in Inkopolis Square for a month due to school but had to leave. Is currently both studying and looking after his younger twin sisters at home

Doesn’t do a lot of agent work anymore due to his parents putting more pressure on him to study, which stresses him out

Karla/Agent 5:

Cis women, She/Her, 19/24

An enthusiastic social butterfly that loves teasing others

Is the older sister of Darby

Worked alongside Darby as Agents 4 and 5 due to seeing Darby go into a grate with a “mysterious and sketchy woman” so she was obviously worried. She learnt about the New Squidbeak Splatoon, got into a fight with Darby about him being Agent 4 but they did reconcile

As Agent 5, she mainly helped out Sheldon with gathering weapon data for his shop, which she managed to fully complete. Darby helped out when he was still in Inkopolis Square, but couldn’t after he moved back home. This took a few weeks to do.

Shares an apartment with Milo in Inkopolis Square, they get along very well

Has offered Darby her place to stay but he refused. She doesn’t know about their parents pressuring Darby to study, but she could definitely guess that it’s happening

Arien/Agent 8

Cis man, He/Him, 17/22

A stone-faced, stubborn amnesiac who just wants to relax

Has a big scar across his due to him failing tests, his are more recent than Milo’s

Intimidates people easily but is actually pretty chill

Works at Ammo Knights and is pretty content to work that job for life

He doesn’t know what to feel about Milo

Didn’t initially collect all of the mem cakes as Agent 8, but has since gone back and gotten them all, as well as having dealt with his “Inner Agent 3”

Really idolised Ira when they first met to the point of putting them on a pedestal, but has since worked on that and now views them as a close friend, although he still thinks they’re pretty cool

Moved to Splatsville for a change of pace, he actually offered Briar to come live with him after finding out that the newest NSS member was moving into Splatsville, but Briar declined, however they decided to move into the same apartment complex as him as neighbours instead

Milo/Agent 9

Nonbinary, They/Them, 20/25

A quiet amnesiac who keeps to themselves

Has a big scar across their back, like Arien’s but more faded, due to them failing tests

They only accompanied Arien in the Deepsea Metro. They didn't do a lot of tests with Arien. The reason they're called Agent 9 is due to Tartar calling them "Applicant 10,009"

Doesn’t speak or emote much but they’re slowing coming out of their shell

Was pretty much a zombie during their time in the Deepsea Metro so they don’t remember much.

They don’t remember anything prior to waking up and meeting Arien and Cuttlefish before they found Tartar and the rest of the Deepsea Metro. They don’t know if they want to

Is obsessed with humans and life before Inklings and Octolings

Lives with Karla in Inkopolis Square. Is really thankful that Karla offered them a place to stay, they’re really good friends

Feels like they’re drifting through life right now, although that might change when they wake up in an abandoned Inkopolis Square

Briar/Neo Agent 3

Agender, She/He/They, 16

A sassy smartass who is also a bit of a tsundere

Grew up in the Splatlands with Little Buddy/Pineapple, currently lives on the outskirts of Splatsville

Is partially fuzzy due to almost losing against Grizz but did win

Is actually working on how they act around others due to Ira’s influence and guidance

Does look up to Ira as a mentor but would rather be dead than her actually saying it to their face

Has a love-hate relationship regarding big clothes, sometimes he loves them, sometimes he hates them

Had no clue who Octavio was before Ira told them

Banned from Turf Wars and Anarchy Battles due to them being extremely ruthless in battle to the point of being violent. They actually started a wave of people using their weapons in an unintended way, which is also what got them banned

Loves messing around with Karla whenever she’s around, she also hangs out with Arien and he teaches her about things like social etiquette and living with others after having not done so before, like he’s talking from experience or something. He’s like a second mentor to Briar but not on the same level as Ira

To quickly explain the deal with Karla and Milo, I made them as Agents 4 and 8 when I decided to 100% Splatoon 2's single player and Octo Expansion. I got too attached to them however, and now they're actually in the story. In the story, Karla does get all of the weapon data for Sheldon, but Milo is not the one to get the mem cakes as it technically wouldn't count as Arien's mem cakes. Another thing I want to mention is that Milo's glasses partly change colour corresponding to a colour chip in Side Order.

Also yes, Milo is replacing Arien in my version of Side Order, it might give them more character development but we’ll see when the DLC releases. Some info may change over time however, I definitely want to post/draw more about them but I’ll see how this post does before I do anything.

[autisticempathydaemon]

hello! for your redacted matchup!

some basic things about me is that i'm just an intj-t and a reserved person and have a lot of difficulty opening up to someone. i also am the stubborn type, trying to solve my problems alone and head on with no breaks. it does lead to a lot of issues where people think i'm too hyper-independent, but we ball and we vibe!

as for your whimsical questions (that i adore btw):

i adore long video essays on youtube! usually about books, drama and social issues around the world. mainly because it's cool to hear about how different people perceive the same piece of media!

i spent most of my life hating my name, so you'd have to put me on gun point to change it. that being said, there was a point in time i wanted to change to something similar to my current name so people can pronounce it easier.

the recent avior video is definitely one of my top fives now! i also adore sam and aviors' healing videos, vega's first video with warden and all of vincent's videos where he gets to act like a dork.

i hope i don't get crucified for this but i really can't see the appeal in lasko. he's too jittery and jumpy and i'm way too impatient to deal with someone like that. i'd still want him as a friend, thought.

as for who i am attracted too platonically, all of the DAMN boys, milo, asher and vincent! they're all too best friend shaped for me.

oh god, when i get tired, i tend to ramble about how people annoy me. i'll be shit talking people in my sleep and i think that's funny!

my go to gas station is circle k and i'd usually get either coffee or a peach quencher!

my favourite playlist rn is my darlin' playlist because it's filled with nostalgic songs for me! (a lot of 90a and early 2000s rap and rnb)

ooooh, my guilty pleasure media would have to be redacted audios! i'm a very basic person when it comes to my media choices so this is literally the "weirdest" thing i listen too!

thank you sososo much for having this event open! do take your time and don't feel pressured to have all of these done! i love you and i hope you have a good day! 💞💞💞

Your INTJ-T (the Turbulent Architect) nature gives me fun Aaron vibes- not that I’d necessarily pair you with Aaron but that you remind me of him… and you know what you and Aaron could use? A cute, bubbly pizza Guy.

The beauty in yours and Guy’s relationship would be the lovely, charming ways you contrast; where you might be introverted and stubborn, Guy is extroverted and open- maybe a little opposites attract sort of thing? He seems the type who could easily draw you out of your shell and become, if not your rock, your safe, happy space.

Also, I think Guy would be so tickled pink to hear you be sleepy and grumpy and gripe about the people who irritate you. He’d love laying next to you and encouraging your mumbling, probably recording silly, nonsensical snippets of it for when he misses you. Guy’d think it’s so cute and sweet how garrulous you can be when it’s just the two of you, and he’d be so proud that he is granted the privilege of experiencing you that way.

Song:

Some people want diamond rings/ Some just want everything/ But everything means nothing/ If I ain't got you, you, you

You just know, without a doubt, that Guy would be a sucker for a good, nostalgic, shower jam, and is there any better than this? It’s classic, it’s simple, it’s cheesy as hell, and Guy absolutely sings it off-key in the car, knowing you’d never skip the track and throw him off his groove when he’s having fun.

Runner-ups:

Leaning more into comparisons than contrasts, I definitely considered David and Aaron for you. David, who is also independent and stubborn, would make himself very available as a rock and foundation for you; he is incredibly dependable, which is very attractive in a partner. Aaron strikes me as having the same MBTI as you, as being similar in that way that would make you fast friends.

Note: I am having a fantastic day, thank you ❣️ I hope you are as well and that this, god willing, made it just a touch better 💖

Want a match-up of your own? Read this post, and tell me about yourself! 💌

[justdalek]

Mario and Luigi: Brothership Review

I just finished M&L: Brothership and hoooooly cow that was a crazy game (in a very good way)

tldr: 8/10, definitely 3rd out of the 8 M&L games (yes I'm including the remakes)

Long review under cut (spoilers ahoy!)

Okay, so let me say that I have been with M&L for over a decade now. I was introduced to the series via SullyPWNZ's let's play of M&L: Partners in Time and then eventually getting my first M&L game that is Dream Team and falling in love with the series as a whole (I've played every game except the original Superstar Saga).

That being said, there's a lot to unpack with Brothership, so let's get the cons out of the way first bc there isn't a lot.

Luigi being controlled with A in battles: UUUUUUUGH Nintendo if you do one patch to the game, please let it be either Luigi is solely B or you can toggle which button to use for him in the settings. My muscle memory screwed me over in so many battles bc I'd default to pressing A with Luigi instead of B bc in battle A = Mario and B = Luigi. Lowkey felt like Luigi's commands were made more complicated instead of simplified.

More with Arc and Arc's Father: This is a weird one, but it very much felt like Arc was just tossed to the wayside after Lushgreen Sea. I was waiting for more development with him or his dad, but we don't see his dad until the end credits. Very much felt like a wasted character and (pun not intended) character arc.

Receiving Bros Attacks: I do miss the puzzle aspect from BIS and DT and it very much feels like it takes forever to receive all the Bros Attacks (like you don't receive the shells until after Gorumbla's defeat)

Yeah, that's it. Let's get to the pros.

Quality of Life Improvements: Skippable cutscenes, fast forwarding, optional or very quick tutorials wonderful to see again!

Pacing: While slow at first, the ending does go by very quickly, so I'm not complaining about it.

Bite-Sized Exploration: With the islands being on the smaller side, there's still a lot to do and a lot to come back to!

References Galore!: Every one of the M&L games are referenced and it's so cool to see it!

Burnedette and Chilliam: Oh my god I love these two so freakn much. This is very much what I've missed in media in general is to have a happy couple with little issues and that stick together through thick and thin. Their bond mission was so heartwarming and cute.

Extension Corps: Okay, I love the pun names, but also their arc was something I kinda wish M&L would do more. If I recall correctly, this is the first time that an antagonist in M&L has been first of all redeemed and second of all still relevant to the plot post redemption. The ECs did good deeds after Zokket's defeat and were even willing to help the bros when Reclusa went bonkers. They're also just dorks and I love them.

Cable puns: This may be my inner mass comm geeking out, but I love every single one of the cable puns and enemy designs that incorporated said cables. It was very much a genius move.

Bowser is largely neutral: So Bowser not being the final boss and not going after Peach is??? Amazing??? Don't get me wrong, Bowser being Bowser in M&L is always funny, but this time it was very refreshing to have the main villains be villains without Bowser sweeping in and making it all about himself.

Starlow: I very much am not a fan of Starlow (I tolerate her), and while the cameo was nice, I'm more glad that she let Snoutlet do his own thing with the bros rather than using her as a crutch when she shows up to the ship.

Peach: She isn't kidnapped?! Whaaat?! Jokes aside, like with Bowser, I'm glad that Brothership took a much different route with her by having her join IDLE and be more proactive in helping the bros find out information. It's nice that we don't have to worry about "saving the princess" and can focus on Concordia.

Mushroom Kingdom denizens as a whole: I'm going to slightly compare Brothership to Superstar Saga and Dream Team in that the MK and Bowser's minions are really used a lot here, letting the player focus more on the new world. Very much enjoy being able to explore without crazy interferences from Toad shenanigans (looking at you, Paper Jam).

Cozette as Zokket: I'm not gonna lie: I did not see that twist coming. Looking back at Cozette and how Reclusa got his mitts on her, it's such a good twist in that even the best of people can get brainwashed under the right circumstances to do evil things.

Reclusa: He's such an asshole, but I love him as a villain. Even though he's physically there towards the end of the game, his character isn't rushed and we get to see him be so unapologetically evil the entire time.

Connie and Snoutlet: These two were so much fun to have on this journey. I like their energy and banter more than Starlow and Prince Dreambert, and I hope there's more of this kind of energy in future M&L games.

Vibes: I feel like M&L has down spiraled in terms of having a lot of negative humor since Bowser's Inside Story, with it really being ugly in Paper Jam. However, Brothership literally turns the ship around and has a much more positive atmosphere about it, and it's so refreashing.

Music: While this game doesn't have the most memorable soundtrack, when it does have bangers they are super good. Standouts for me include the battle and boss themes and Twistee Island.

The Message: I usually see this more in the Paper Mario series, but the overall message that while being alone, having bonds with people is important is such a good message that needs to be told more. The fact that this game displays that there are multiple kinds of bonds (family, friends, romantic, rivals, etc) is so cool and validating to see.

Mario and Luigi: Easily one of their best performances alongside Dream Team. They bounce off of each other and truly show the power of brothership. Also having Luigi cook so much in this game was so freakn funny but also, "he has an idea! Let him cook!"

There's so much more I could say, but I really love this game overall and can ramble about all day

[bigfan-fanfic]

A Fire Burning Quiet (Male!Reader x Bucky Barnes)

Requested by @thenlookatyourphones for Can I request a scenario/headcanons of sorts for bucky and his boyfriend for old times sake? I was wondering if you could do one where Bucky is super stoic and serious when he’s out in public and a man of very few words and kind of stand-offish, but behind closed doors, he’s super dorky and always trying to make his boyfriend laugh and he’s super cuddly with his boyfriend

There's so much going on with Bucky.

He just tends to keep it to himself.

With his PTSD, Bucky tends to close up around unfamiliar people, which makes it hard to bond with others.

But you are one of those others. You wormed your way into his circle, and then into his heart.

And you just realize that there's a whole other person locked inside a tough shell, just for you to see.

Bucky tends to respond in one word answers and short vocalizations, at least, outside of his small friend group.

He doesn't smile, and he takes things very seriously, finding it difficult to recognize humor in modern speech patterns.

He is always on high alert, scanning surroundings and people for threat analysis, and he hates crowds.

But when you close the doors, batten down the hatches, build him a fortress where he finally feels safe... Bucky emerges.

He's a dork. A huge dork.

He geeks out over scientific discoveries, despite finding it difficult to pronounce a lot of jargon. He's way more intellectual than people might give him credit for, and he learns very quickly. Bucky likes technology a lot. He thinks it's incredible to see how people have made their lives easier and safer, although he also recognizes downsides, and he absolutely doesn't trust unnecessarily smart devices.

He's decorated his own space and picked out furnishings - he generally goes for state-of-the-art appliances, but just a step away from fully-smart. He refuses to have anything connect to the internet without him knowing why. Sam gave him an Alexa as a joke and Bucky lobbed it out of the window.

Bucky really likes video games and web shows. He likes seeing how creative people can be. He gets invested in stories and loves watching them with you. More than once you've seen him taking notes - Bucky has a knack for analysis and the time to do research on symbolism and references.

He's silly. Not just funny, but silly. He has a biting wit and sarcasm, but you've come to recognize that as another wall, a defense mechanism. Bucky loves jokes that are so terrible they're funny - he likes puns and creative riddles and he smiles so much around you that you wonder why it's just here, just with you and friends.

And the other thing - Bucky is touch starved and not afraid of physical contact. In public, he's too tightly wound to hug or cuddle, but once all his defenses are down, you struggle to find a time he's not somehow pressed against you. Even when you sit at your computer desk, he sometimes likes to just sit against your chair and do his own thing. Bucky's got a lot of room to multitask, and he enjoys just having parallel time with you, yet still connecting.

He'll cuddle you without warning, make stupid faces at you across the dinner table to make you laugh, and be so wonderfully animated and expressive around you.

It makes you a little sad that no one else gets to see this beautiful man you love so much, but you feel such a sense of honor and privilege that you're the one who does.

You love the Bucky that playfully makes little puppy whines while you braid his long hair.

The Bucky that pins you down on the couch and peppers kisses across your skin when you seem sad.

The Bucky that looks so absorbed in a YouTube video analyzing the music in some game that he's played that you feel bad disturbing him.

The Bucky that strings up fairy lights around the rooms, who orders a bunch of fuzzy blankets and demands you try them out with him, who learns to cook and bake just for you, and who pretends to die at the slightest injury so you'll baby him.

And you know what? You love the Bucky he is outside, too. Because even when he grunts at someone out in public, even when he misses a question because he's surveying the area, it's still the same guy. And maybe someday you can help him feel safe enough to not have to lift up his walls every time you're not alone, but maybe not. And that's okay too.

You love him, all the same.

And he loves you.

[altocat]

For Sephzack Week...any headcanons? Can be romantic or platonic!

The BOYSSSSSS!

-Sephiroth is initially extremely awkward and distrustful of Zack. He's not used to sudden changes and now this zippy little puppy is in his life after Angeal becomes his mentor. He's lowkey kind of jealous that Zack keeps taking up Angeal's time.

-But after Angeal and Genesis leave, Zack sort of becomes Sephiroth's lifeline. He reminds Seph a lot about the best features of both his friends--Angeal's kindness and support and Genesis' ambition and determination.

-Zack isn't afraid to stand up to Sephiroth, but also leaves a lot of room for him to come out of his shell. He's probably the only person left who can genuinely make Sephiroth laugh, no matter how stupid the joke is. He's great at helping to break the tension Sephiroth might be feeling at the moment and genuinely comes to care for Sephiroth's wellbeing, noticing that there's a bit of a slowly developing mental health issue forming.

-Zack loves spamming Sephiroth's phone with stupid texts and memes. Sephiroth doesn't really understand them and unfortunately has to keep his phone turned off because it will otherwise explode from Zack's antics. Most consist of cat GIFs with 'Is this U :33' beneath them.

-They're snack-buddies. In that, on chummy occasions, they are the absolute worst influence in the world for each other when it comes to breaking the rigid soldier-diet! They enjoy lounging around talking business while chowing down on junk. Sephiroth wholeheartedly blames Zack for this. But stopped caring around the fifth burger.

-Sephiroth lets Zack get away with a lot. From turning in some truly borderline illiterate field reports to pulling pranks to letting him yell at whatever higher-ranked Shinra official he pleases. Seph often uses his connections to bail Zack out for the most part. He feels obligated to look after him, even though he still sends Zack to handle his duties when it comes to Genesis and Angeal.

-Zack initially thought Sephiroth was kind of cold and unfriendly. He very quickly catches on to the fact that Sephiroth's got a kind streak beneath all that aloofness. He's not a fan of how violent and ruthless Seph can be in battle but he's also growing more aware that Seph never really had a choice. He's got the impression that Sephiroth has some sort of unseen issues relating to his past and identity. But he isn't sure what they are exactly.

-Fist-bumping in moments of camaraderie is often an awkward process Sephiroth has no idea what he's doing and most of the time ends up nearly breaking Zack's hand from bumping too hard.

-Zack frequently tries to get Sephiroth more engaged with recreational activities outside of HQ. This has more than often ended in disaster because Sephiroth's rigid and often literal way of thinking often gets him in painful situations. And Zack found out the hard way that his childhood icon is absolutely HORRID when it comes to extreme sports. Protip, Sephiroth and snowboarding DO NOT mix.

-They especially enjoy going on night patrol together, spending quality time just inspecting the streets together side by side, occasionally conversing and taking in the scope of the night in peace.

-Zack thinks Sephiroth's kind of a dork. But in an endearing way!

-Sephiroth thinks Zack is kind of the coolest coolguy he's ever met and has NO IDEA how to feel about that.

[girlucifer]

so i got lucifer's 25 heart call a few weeks back and um...? "allow me to reschedule our shopping outing to a later date." if you be petty and say "nevermind the entire thing!" he does this little "eh? i... i wasn't expecting that. i thought you were more reasonable..." anyway i think mc would have the right to be upset if this was like third, fourth, fifth time he rescheduled... so let's imagine this:

*lucifer & mc had planned a couples trip months ago- they were always so frazzled with ambassador/advisor work that asmodeus was like: !! go out somewhere together! have a mini-vacation at a fancy hotel- enjoy yourselves! the two planned a beachside trip complete with a strict itinerary lucifer was so focused on [he's like ok so we get there in the afternoon, which gives us seven and a half minutes to change into beachwear and head to the beach by the hotel, in which we will start out with sunbathing for forty-five minutes, then engage with a romantic walk towards the tide pool, where we will find sea shells as a souvenir. why are you laughing.] the point is, the two had spent a lot of time and thought into planning this outing- and they were equally as excited!

*the time slowly dwindled down until there was only one week away from the trip. lucifer had a million-and-one things to take care of- he was so busy with devildom work that the trip had slipped his mind- including asking lord diavolo for a few vacation days. when barbatos went over the month's major events, lucifer was set for a week's trip to some remote area outside of the devildom for a conference about foreign affairs. he agreed, albeit hesitantly. he felt like he was forgetting something...

*lucifer comes home to find mc packing a suitcase. his heart goes ! and he is like: please mc don't leave me i know i've been out a lot because of work but please don't leaveeee and they're like "huh? i'm packing for tomorrow!" to which lucifer's like, well where are you going? mc stops packing, giving their signature side eye to which lucifer is like: ok i think i'm in trouble.

*lucifer apologizes profusely over and over again like: mc i understand you are very upset- but please? just understand this is a very busy time for the devildom- mc doesn't say a word to lucifer's surprise- he always thought of them as mature & level-headed- why are they acting a bit petty? [<- not understanding that this is a huge deal] the two sleep back to back, mc waking up to give a wordless kiss to lucifer as he sets out for his week's trip.

*after a few days lucifer's conference is over and he rushes back to the house of lamentation to find mc missing. he corners mammon like: tell me where my mf wife is!!! to which mammon's like: >:D they left you for being so cold! asmodeus is like: huh? they went to the trip you two were planning! just because you couldn't go doesn't mean they couldn't!

*lucifer books a flight immediately to where mc is. he's searching all over trying to re-create their steps until he stumbles upon a sleeping mc by the hotel pool. everyone is already staring like: omg... is that the morning star? what is he doing here in this small quaint island! and then imagine their surprise when he kneels to the ground taking mc's hand waking them up begging please mc pleaseeeeee do not hate me pleaseeeeeeee i'm crying see i'm crying and i'm contrite pleaseee forgive me my love my everything

*mc is like ?? just waking up from the most pleasant of naps... lucifer is on his knees all teary-eyed and they burst into laughter. 'oh come here ya dork!' enveloping him in a hug. lucifer whispers dirty words into their ear & asks mc to take him back to their hotel room and they're like- you think i'm here all by myself? cue solomon showing up in his little wetsuit & snorkel headgear like: mc you will NOT believe the benefits of being a marine biologist

*lucifer's face drops with horror as he remembers that they specifically chose the luxurious romantic deal with the valentines' suite & couples' massages & booked candlelight dinners at the town's fanciest restaurants. he's grabbing solomon by the neck like: did you fuck my spouse, solomon?? did you?? did you fuck my spouse??? while he's got a shit-eating grin on his face

*the night ends with the three sharing a bed because lucifer refused to leave mc alone with solomon while solomon's just havin the time of his life

[leonsi]

Sucks about the no lactose-free stuff at that restaurant (as someone with some specific diet stuff at times I understand. In my case though, quite often, I just go like, screw it that, I like this food, it might make me sick, it might not; I am going to eat it anyways, lol). If u're still taking requests; I would love to see, Leo being petty/salty about Raph or someone else winning at something and/or pouting and/or trying to get him/her to lose (thinking about some actual 2012 stuff). 1/2.

yeah, this is the second time i’ve had “dairy-free”gelato & the second time i’ve gotten a killer stomach ache, so i think it might be something on my end. but this was a very nice request to have tonight, thank you 😭😭

“Leo!” Raph jerks to the side to avoid Leo’s elbow, taking a precious second to glare at him before returning to the screen. “The fuck is wrong with you?”

Leo shrugs with a smug chide of “language.” He waits until they come along a turn to shove his fingers into Raph’s neck; only a place he would know is ticklish.

This is an age-old game of theirs, where Leo sucks and knows he sucks and does everything in his power not to suck, relatively, by bringing the others down with him. He takes advantage of every opening he has, like videogames are a fucking battlefield.

Usually, Raph would be annoyed.

But Leo hasn’t even laughed since he woke up from his coma. Two weeks, no laughing. And - Leo has always been the serious older brother to his rebellion, but he was also a dork who practiced shitty puns in front of his Captain Ryan action figure.

So it’s a little harder than normal to muster up his grouchy persona when he sees Leo smiling.

“You fucking dick!” he shouts, because he knows it’ll get on Leo’s nerves, before easily surpassing him at the next curve. Leo may be the safer driver, but in video game land where consequences didn’t matter, Raph was far superior.

He still finds himself going a little easy on the gas.

“Don’t -! You’re so mean!” Leo shouts back. He kicks out at Raph’s side, balancing precariously on his shell on the couch to do so. Raph could knock him over with a slight movement. “Stop! Stop winning!”

Raph wins.

Leo pouts.

“You cheated,” he grumbles. He throws the controller on the couch, a little harder than necessary. “That’s the only way.”

“Maybe I’m just better than you?” Raph counters. The car runs an animated victory lap on screen, and Raph takes the moment to wiggle his upper body in celebration. He was superior. He deserved this.

Leo’s head sinks into his shell, just slightly. Raph’s worried he ruined his good mood until Leo kicks out again, catching him solidly in the gut with his foot. “You don’t need to rub it in!”

Uh, yes he does. “Yes I do.”

Leo kicks again. “No, you don’t.”

“Yeah, I do.”

“No!”

“Yes!”

“Nope!”

“Yep!”

In the course of their argument they had slowly shifted themselves onto their shells, legs poised in the air for battle. Leo stares at Raph in a silent challenge, the clear message of “don’t you dare” hanging in the air.

“No,” Leo says. His voice shakes.

Raph strikes.

Soon they're kicking at each other, devolving into chaos as they giggle and squirm like children over a video game.

[demigoddessqueens]

HELLO HELLO HELLO! I come to you with scraps!! *Proceeds to open up large trenchcoat of brain worms(ideas)* I have been listening to the aladin remake playlist (arabiAN niGHTss) a lot so blame that. So the reader is an aasimar, a protector one to be specific. Originally they grew up in the Nine hells, and due to the way aasimar's are seen/treated there, they're very cautious with going around and spreading this information (about how their an aasimar). After escaping with your life on your shoulders, you started to unravel that shell a bit. You are very much used to having to lean on yourself a lot. You act as one of the group's big scary dogs. When you let those reins go, you are very much a snarling animal at that point. Your very much a dork around ones you trust and have no filter. Sometimes you'll say things and its just :blinkblink: "how did you think that up?" NOWW , maybe readers part of the mighty nein. Originally you had tagged along with Jester, Fjord, and Beau. You all were a pretty close nit of friends and then expanded that when stumbling into Caleb, Nott, Mollymauk, and Yasha. At first glance, I imagine it's been pretty much kept under wraps about everything. What you could hide you would and what you couldn't, you tried your damn hardest to. Now at this time, you guys all got dragged into another big fight. At this point, mostly everyone was either gravely injured or near passing out. You don't look/feel the best either. You internally realized that something (or SOMEONE) needed to step in to get this foe down. It was almost close to death and just needed a little push. That's when out of the blue, these large incorporeal wings sprouted out of your back. Billowing, they almost acted like a shield. Also, a glimmering in your eyes started to form. You try and take the last final swing to finally get this asshat down for good, erupting with radiant energy. Now... everything seems to be over? You are now pretty worse than compared before. Though you were still standing. As you lowered down to the ground, the attributes you gained started to fade. How would the Mighty Nein members react to this reveal? Who would be questioning and curious? Vs who would be like "GAH DAMN!"

(Also, there's a certain part of "Valentine Texas" that made me think of the reveal. Its the - "I'll show you who my sweetheart's never met Wet teeth, shining eyes glimmering by a fire.." ANYWAYS hehehe being a nerd over music >:D)

Ndjsjdjkfke trench coat of ideas 😂 😆 😝 no but I love this and the music refs cause I like to write some of my stuff like that

I would say that it’d be a “oh dammmnnn!!” moment for all of the Nein, but since you were closer with Fjord, Jester and Beau they’ll be more concerned about your well being but will also press more about your past and magical abilities

On the flip side, Yasha, Caleb and Nott, and Molly are going to side eyeing so hard and the last three will be asking bunch of questions about your past and intentions since that’s not an everyday occurrence for them. But ultimately they will come around to trust you.

For an added bonus, Cadeuces would be patient and understanding while also trying to help if you ever lose control of your abilities or hurt yourself

[ghostfives]

Thunderstorms And Midnight Snacks

Hunter cuddles closer to Fives, groaning softly when their son kicks at his belly. “Please, baby. Not now.” He whispers, rubbing at his large belly. He’s seven months pregnant and already ready to have the baby, he's achy and tired, just ready to give birth and hold their little one in his arms.

Hunter startles out of his thoughts when he feels a hand place itself on his belly, before hearing the soft voice of his husband. “Shh, it’s just me, love. He kicking you again?” He asks softly, gently rubbing Hunter’s belly.

Hunter sighs softly. “Yeah, he just won’t stop.” He explains tiredly, gently kissing Fives. “Just need some sleep, especially running around with Omega all day, it gets tiring.” He grumbles. “Love her, but why do 7 year olds love tag so much?”

Fives chuckles, smiles softly as he tucks Hunter in a bit more. “Who knows, but at least we've got her out of her shell, after kamino…” He trails off, kissing Hunter’s head. “You just sleep and relax, I’ll make sure to keep him calm.” He promises, gently rubbing again.

Hunter frowns, thinking about Omega and feeling worried. “Can we grab a small snack before bed? And maybe check on Omega?” He asks softly, always a worry wart when it comes to their little girl. It;s understandable after all she went through.

“Of course.” Fives reasures, standing up. “Need help?” He asks softly, getting a grumble and head shake from Hunter, making him chuckle. “Alright.”

Hunter struggles, trying to get up from his bed before sighing. “Sorry, help?” He says softly, looking up at his husband with an embarrassed look. He feels so weak, even if it's all for  their little one. 

Fives just smiles and gently pulls Hunter up before holding him close. “It’s alright, I honestly get it, my love. It’s okay.” He promises, kissing Hunter’s head.

Hunter nods, before pulling Fives with him as he waddles out of their room and through the halls, straight to Omega’s room. “Need to make sure she’s okay.” He says softly. “I get so worried about her.” He pets his belly. “She’s having a hard time with this, and I don’t want her thinking she can’t come to us.”

“Oh Hunter.” Fives whispers. “We’ll make sure she doesnt think that.” He promises, before pulling Hunter close to him when they get to the door, opening it to see their little one sleeping peacefully with her trooper dolls in her arms. They look like him and Hunter in armor. “See? She’s fine.” He says softly.

Hunter looks, heart and soul filled with relief and love as he looks at their daughter, all safe and snug as a bug in a rug. “There she is.” He whispers happily, breathing with relief. “Thanks, Fives, I just needed to see her.” He says softly, holding his belly. 

Fives smiles, closing the door and kissing Hunter’s head, placing gentle hands on his belly. “Always, I understand.” He hears the soft patter of rain, smiling softly. “Was raining the day we met her… and the day we met.” He says, lovingly kissing Hunter who snorts. 

“Always rains on Kamino, dork.” Hunter mumbles against Fives’ lips. “Snack now?” He asks, before his stomach grumbles, making him blush. “I’m hungry.”

Fives chuckles. “I hear, let's get you  some food. But be quiet, don’t want to wake our brothers.” 

Hunter nods and he and Fives head to the kitchen, Hunter sighing softly as his back aches. Once they're in the kitchen he sits in the chair. “Just a cookie or two please.” He says softly, rubbing his belly.

Fives nods. “Coming right up!” He grabs the tin of Wrecker’s cookies, handing them right to Hunter. “Milk?” He asks, getting a nod. He grabs and pours a glass before setting it on the table and sitting down.

Hunter hums as he eats a cookie, before sipping at the milk. “Thank you.” He says softly before continuing to eat. He eats about four before being full and setting the tin on the table, then finishing up the milk. “There, that hit the spot.” He stretches out a bit.

“That's good, ready for bed now?” Fives asks softly as he puts everything away, yawning and covering his mouth. He’s definitely ready for bed. Hunter nods, before startling when thunder hits. They both look at eachother as they hear a scream. “Oh no.” Fives says softly.

“Omega, gotta go comfort her.” Hunter says, worried as he starts to quickly waddle up the stairs, needing to help his daughter. Fives is behind him frantically making sure he doesn't fall. “Hunter, careful!” He says, before they get to Omega’s room and she’s not there.

“Our room.” Fives says softly leading Hunter in and seeing the lump under their covers trembling.

“Oh baby.” Hunter says softly, quickly waddling to the bed and sitting down, uncovering Omega and pulling her close. “Shh, it’s okay. I’m here.” He whispers.

“Oh Buir! It was so loud and… and scary!” Omega sobs, curling into Hunter’s chest as close as she can, legs settled against Hunter’s belly. Fives frowns softly with worry, sitting on the other side of the bed and pulling Hunter into a hug so that Omega is more in between them. “Our poor baby.” He whispers, rubbing her back.

“Shhh, it was just thunder baby. We are on Ord mantell, no Kamino in sight.” Hunter promises, the little sobs absolutely breaking his heart. He kisses her head, seeing the little dolls of him and Fives clutched tightly in her arms. She needed them to sleep in her own room, even if it was her choice. “It’s  okay, Buir and Papa are right here with you.” Hunter promises.

“Yes, and we aren’t going anywhere.” Fives promises. “We’ll always be right here for you.” He feels her trembling start to slow.

“Can I stay with you tonight Papa? Mommy?” Omega asks tearfully, looking between them. She only calls Hunter Mommy when she’s really upset or scared, so they both know it's definitely serious. 

Hunter gently wipes the tears from her cheeks. “Of course baby, you can stay with us whenever you like.” He promises, gently moving so he’s laying down and tucks Omega into the blanket, nestled nice and close to his chest and belly.

“Yeah. always. You're always welcome with us.” Fives says softly, tucking both Hunter and Omega in nice and snug, before kissing their heads and pulling them close. “My two favourite people in the galaxy.” He whispers lovingly. “And my third on the way.” That makes Hunter smiles, pecking Fives on the lips before he starts gently humming to Omega.

Omega snuggles close between her Buir and papa, feeling safe and protected right here with them. She always feels safest with them but wanted to be a big girl, but she doesn’t care right now, she needs her parents. She yawns as her Buir’s humming lulls her to sleep.

Hunter sighs happily, gently rubbing Omega’s back now that she’s asleep. She’s been having a hard time lately, and times like these always worry him. He feels Fives gently place a hand on his side and rubbing along to his belly, making Hunter look up.

“Hey, it’s okay. She’s okay and sleeping perfectly happy now.” Fives whispers reassuringly, smiling softly. “We have her, she’s okay.” He knows how hard it is for Hunter and Omega right now, especially with how their little girl has been taking the pregnancy and after the blowup last week… he needs to make sure they’re both okay.

Hunter nods, snuggling in. “I know, I know she’s okay and I’m so glad she is.” He says, nuzzling her head. The baby kicks in his belly, making him sigh softly, happy to know both their babies are okay. “Let’s just get some sleep now.” Hunter says, hearing the thunder go again, but not as loud. 

Fives nods. “Of course, you just relax. I have you both.” He whispers, kissing Hunter’s head.

Hunter smiles softly, happy with their life even with the Empire hunting them down. They’re perfectly safe on Ord Mantell, and He is perfectly safe with all his brothers and Fives protecting him and Omega. He finally falls asleep to Omega’s soft breathing against his chest.

Fives smiles, seeing both of them asleep. He stays awake a bit longer, still a bit worried about them himself. But he is also lulled into sleep after an hour, his hand still gently placed on Hunter’s belly almost as if its an extra layer of protection for the little boy inside.

Taglist: @inkyrebel

[join-the-joywrite]

Take my hand (take my whole life too)

"We played the Oprheum!"

The bouncing hug only lasted a second or two. While the boys regained a significant amount of lost strength, Julie's was slowly dwindling. She was, after all, only human and was out of home way later than usual. Her own internal clock seemed to be screaming at her to at least sit down.

Instead, she went down with the boys as her foot caught on a cable and she stumbled to the floor.

Alex made for a soft landing, one for which her apology was littered with giggles. Alex didn't mind. The slight pain was welcome in comparison to Caleb's jolts. Not to mention, he'd wanted to hug Julie ever since she cried during her not-so-private performance of her mother's song weeks ago. So he lay on the floor and squished Julie tight, only bringing forth more giggles.

"Hey, my turn!" Reggie yelled, rolling over and dropping himself half on Julie, fully on Alex.

"Oof," Luke commented, "that looks like it hurt."

"It did," Alex wheezed, adjusting himself to get used to the additional weight.

As one, all three of them held out an arm to Luke, who didn't hesitate to scoot closer and join the cuddle pile. Head on Alex's shoulder, he was right in front of Julie. He gave her a smile that, had she been standing, would've probably made her lose her balance. She gave him one back.

"I like this," Reggie murmured contentedly, closing his eyes.

"Yeah," Julie agreed, relishing in the fact that she could finally hug her boys, "me too."

They stayed like that for a moment before Alex sat up with great difficulty, sending them all tumbling. "You're all very heavy," he stated by way of explaining.

Julie chuckled and moved to stand up. Luke and Reggie grabbed one of her arms each.

"Stay," both whined. Reggie continued with a grin. "I promise I can be a soft pillow for you."

"I'd love to, honestly, but Carlos is waiting for me. He wanted to talk to me and. . ."

"Fine," Reggie huffed, "but just know that I'm feeling incredibly hurt right now."

Julie ruffled his hair, grinning when he closed his eyes and smiled under her touch. "There's always tomorrow."

Still, all three of them pouted when Julie stood up and righted her clothes.

"I'll see you guys in the morning," she said before walking to the doors. She paused just before closing it. "Thank you, guys."

Alex gave her a wave. Luke smiled at her with a dopey expression. Reggie continued to pout.

Julie bounded up the pathway, gait as giddy as her smile. Carlos was waiting for her in the living room.

"Hey," she said, joining him on the couch.

"Hey."

"Whatcha got there?" she asked, nodding to the paper Carlos' hands were clamped around. "Another French dip recipe?"

Carlos shook his head. "You know what this is."

"I . . . really don't."

"Your band! They're--!" Carlos stopped and glanced around looking for their father. He leaned across the vouch and whispered to Julie with wide eyes, "ghosts."

Julie forced a laugh. "What? No, don't be silly, there's no such thing as ghosts."

Carlos lifted his eyebrows. "Okay, then explain this."

Julie picked up the little black and blue page Carlos tossed to the middle of the couch, recognising it as a CD insert. For Sunset Curve. Julie's own eyebrows lifted slightly, but she continued to pretend like she hadn't a clue what was happening. Then she turned it over and knew the jig was up. Staring up at her was all four members of Sunset Curve. Trevor, or Bobby, sure looked different when he was younger.

"They're just lookalikes--"

"I'd believe you if they were here and we could touch them."

The idea of being able to hold and hug her bandmates brought a warm smile back to Julie's face. She quickly wiped it off and shook her head. "Where'd you even find this?"

"In the box with the French dip recipe."

"Ah."

Carlos suddenly looked around wildly. Julie looked around too.

"What? What happened? What are we looking for?"

"Are they here?"

"What? No, they're in the garage--"

"Aha!" Carlos grinned and folded his arms. "You're a terrible liar, Jules."

"Wh-- I am not!"

"You are, though."

Julie jumped slightly and moved away from Reggie. Carlos noticed and immediately turned his gaze where Julie looked. "Are they here now? Tell them I say hello!"

Julie rolled her eyes. "They can hear you, dork -- and it's just Reggie."

"Tell him that I say hello."

"Reggie says hello," Julie said, heaving a resigned sigh. "What are you doing here? I told you I'd see you in the morning."

"I knew it," Carlos whispered to himself as he watched his sister talk to thin air. She looked, in all honesty, a bit insane, but at least he knew he was right about the ghosts. "So how does the ghost thing even work? How come I can't see him now, but we can all see them when you play?"

Julie whipped her head from Reggie to Carlos. "It -- I'll explain it all tomorrow, okay? It's been a long day. Reggie, go back to the studio. Carlos, to bed. It's late."

"All right," Carlos grumbled, sliding off the couch. He paused at the stairs and glanced back to see Julie scolding nothing. He hoped he'd get to officially met the guys. Julie made them seem fun.

"All right, little man, what do you wanna hear?"

Julie repeated the question to Carlos, letting him know that it was Reggie who asked.

Carlos thought for a moment. "I like the song you were singing before you got back into the music program."

"Oh, that's not our song, that -- that--"

"No, it's okay," Luke said, "I'm sure we can work something out."

"I -- okay."

Carlos sat down on the couch, almost bouncing with excitement as Julie took a seat behind the piano. The melody she played wasn't loud and energetic like their usual songs. It was quiet and gentle. Even when the band kicked in, they were much softer than usual. Julie hummed along where the words should be so that Carlos could easily speak to the boys.

"I'm--"

"Wait!" Carlos said, jumping off the couch, cutting Luke off. "I'm gonna guess based on what Julie says about you."

"You talk about us?" Luke asked with a teasing grin.

Julie hit a particularly furious note. "Shut up."

"Luke, Reggie and Alex," Carlos said, pointing to the correct band member as he went.

"Nice, little man!"

"This is so cool," Carlos whispered, eyes widening when Reggie paused playing and knelt down for Carlos to stick his hand through Reggie's arm. "Woah."

The band noticed that they were very intangible to Carlos.

Luke was only slightly disappointed when Carlos chose to focus his attention on Alex next.

"I like your hoodie."

"Thanks," Alex said, beaming. "Here, you wanna try?"

"Nah, I don't play music . . . okay, maybe a little."

Julie laughed softly as she watched Alex stand and then point where Carlos should hit. To keep them from disappearing, she continued the piano. Luke kept up with his guitar, grinning at her all the while. Their little musical conversation didn't go unnoticed by Reggie and Alex, who shared a knowing glance before Carlos grabbed Alex's attention.

"Have you ever accidentally stabbed your drums through with the sticks?"

"No, and please do not do that. We have no idea what it costs to repair dead instruments."

Carlos handed the drumsticks back to Alex and hopped off the chair. He stood in front of Luke, who knelt down as Reggie had done.

"So. You're the one my sister has a crush on."

"Carlos!" Jullie yelled, standing up and slamming down about five wrong keys.

"It was nice meeting you," Carlos yelled as he fled the garage.

With her face burning, Julie chased him down.

Alex and Reggie did their best not to laugh. They really did. But the shell-shocked look on Luke's face was hilarious. Even the withering glare Luke sent them didn't help quieten their laughter.

Up in the house, Ray Molina thought he was about to witness a wrestling match. "Julie! What are you doing?"

Julie, who suddenly realised there was no way to explain why she was attacking Carlos without either sounding like a lunatic or exposing the phantoms to her father, slowly slid down to the ground.

Carlos sat up on the couch. "Julie has a crush on Luke! Julie has a crush on Luke! Julie has a--"

"Oh, that is it!"

Perplexed, Ray watched Julie spring back on the couch with a war cry, followed by a pained, "How could you say that in front of him?!"

"Who's Luke?"

Carlos, seemingly determined to ruin Julie's life, broke out from her seeking arms and grinned at Ray. "The beanie boy in her little boyband--"

"CARLOS!"

"Julie," Ray said, a playful warning edge creeping into his voice as he folded his arms, "is there something you want to talk about?"

"No! Not at all! Excuse me, I have to go, um, rehearse!"

"Rehearse?" Ray exchanged an amused grin with Carlos. "What for?"

"Uh, future gigs? You know, since we played the Orpheum, we might get like a ton of calls and -- oh, like this, see?" As Julie held up her phone, both Ray and Carlos saw Flynn's name, but both decided to give Julie a small reprieve. In the meantime, Carlos could fill Ray in about this little crush business.

"You are not going to believe what just happened," Julie said, taking the stairs two at a time. "I took Carlos down to the garage to meet the guys, you know, 'cause he figured them out and he wanted to meet them, but then he told Luke I have a crush on him and I ended up chasing Carlos back to the house 'cause I didn't want to stay in the garage with Luke -- and Alex and Reggie -- and then my dad caught us fighting on the couch and then Carlos told my dad that I have a crush on Luke and my life is over!"

Flynn took a moment to respond. "Well . . . it's not like he's wrong, is he?"

"Flynn!" The wail that Julie threw into her pillow as she face planted her bed was equal parts betrayed and mortified. "How am I supposed to show my face at practice now? Can I come and bury my head in the sand at your place?"

Flynn laughed over the phone. "Grow up, Jules. You turned Nick down for this air cutie. Nick. You made your choice, now live with it."

"Flynn," Julie growled.

"Okay, okay. Look, you have to talk about it at some point. There's no way you can have that kind of fire on stage without some mutual attraction, and that's just Luke and Reggie. Then there's Luke and you. Jules, that's not even a fire anymore. There is something serious between you two and even though I still think it's a bad idea because he's, you know, air, I still think you need to talk about it before the wrong thing blows up."

"I know," Julie sighed. "I can handle Luke -- I think. It's my dad I'm worried about. How do I explain it all without him wanting to take me to a shrink?"

"Don't tell him anything. Show him. Maybe with a little less flair than you did with me. Play him something soft. Like . . . wasn't your mom in a couple of bands when she was our age? Maybe he'd know one of her songs. Maybe if you guys played something of hers, he'll have enough of his head around him to know it's all real, but enough of it will be in the clouds that it'll be easy to explain."

Julie stared at her phone, at the contact photo she had of Flynn. "You are a genius."

"I know. So, I was just calling to ask how you're holding up, but I'm going to assume everything is fine and the guys didn't cross over?"

"Yeah, no, it was really weird. Caleb's curse just sort of . . . broke, I guess, after I hugged them."

"Wait, hold up. You hugged them? What was that like, arms hanging in the air and hoping you were touching?"

Julie sighed a happy sigh. "We have a lot to talk about."

"I'll be there for dinner, no excuses -- and I expect your dad to know what's going on by then."

Julie rolled over and muffled a groan of despair into her pillow.

"Rough day?"

"It's only ten," Julie whined, lifting her head to give Alex her sad eyes.

Alex smiled. "You'll be fine -- I mean with your dad thing. With Luke on the other hand. . ."

Julie faux sobbed into her pillow, eliciting a soft chuckle from Alex, who sat down on her bed. He reached out for her shoulder then quickly drew back. Ever since Julie left the garage last night, it had been on his mind -- on all their minds -- that the hug was a one-time thing. He didn't want to confirm their fears if they were right.

"Hey, it's okay, Jules."

Julie let out a strangled wail that took Alex a few seconds of clamping his mouth shut to avoid laughing at the poor girl.

"I'm serious. You know, Luke, he . . . he's not great with feelings. He talks with music, with songs, with lyrics. He says the most important things when he looks at you on stage or at a rehearsal or when you're writing music together. He's just scared. I mean, we all are, but him most."

Julie sat up, hugging her wail-pillow to her chest. "You sound like you're speaking from experience."

Alex shrugged. "All I'm saying is, give him a chance -- and give Carlos a break. Honestly, he might have just done you a favour."

"I cannot believe you're taking Carlos' side."

"I'm not! I'm not, I'm just -- things are already complicated. How much worse can they get?"

Julie sighed. "I don't know. . ."

"Well, it's not like Luke does either. He's locked himself in the bathroom and Reg and I think he's been crying in the bathtub this whole time. We'd phase through the door but Luke can actually hit us if he wants to so. . ."

"Oh, and you think I can't?" Julie teased.

The two shared an amused grin, but beneath it, both were thinking the same thing. What if she couldn't?

"All right, I'll tall to him. But you and Reggie have to leave."

Julie ventured into the empty garage. She looked around for Reggie and Alex, unsure if she was relieved or not when she didn't find them. Up in the loft, they watched Julie disappear as she headed further in towards the bathroom door.

She knocked gently. "Luke?"

Silence.

"Come on, I know you're in there. Alex says you've locked yourself in and won't come out."

"I'm not Luke."

"Okay, but I need to talk to Luke so can you pass on the message for me?"

"I'll let him know."

Julie smiled, finding Luke's behaviour somewhat amusing. She leaned against the door. "I'm sorry about Carlos, he . . . he just really enjoys embarrassing me in front of people. I guess he figured since you guys can't really speak to other people, you'll have to talk to me and we'll all have to confront whatever he said so that's why he picked you to tease and --" Julie broke off with a sigh.

The bathroom stayed silent.

"And I'm sorry for running out after him. I was just . . . I was afraid of what you'd say."

When Luke spoke again, though his voice was much softer, it was also much clearer. As if he were closer to the door. "Why? Was he . . . telling the truth? Did you say something?"

Julie fidgeted with the sleeves on her yellow jersey. "No, but I'm not exactly the most subtle person and if you haven't noticed, I suck at lying."

Luke laughed softly. "Oh, we noticed. Everyone knows you're a horrible liar."

"Thanks," Julie said with a grin, "I mean, I really just came here to affirm what a bad liar I am."

"Ooh, sarcastic too."

"Shut up."

"Well?" Luke said after a moment of silence. "Was he?"

Julie leaned against the door and sighed. "What does it matter? It's not like anything would come of it."

"It does matter, Jules. It -- it matters because -- well, I mean, you matter. To me."

"I know," Julie said softly, turning so that her back was against the door. "It sucks, doesn't it?"

"Not all of it sucks," Luke murmured from the other side of the door. "We could find a way. You've already done so much that no other lifer ever has, as far as anyone knows. Why stop there?"

Julie laughed. "Your ambition is very inspiring, Luke, but everything has a limit."

"So find that limit, then. You'll never know how high it is if you stop now."

Julie felt something brush her hand and glanced down to see Luke's arm phasing through the door. She wanted to reach for his hand but she was afraid she'd just pass through him. So she made a joke instead.

"You do realise that a floating arm is way more unsettling than anything else ghosts have ever done, right?"

"How's a floating head?" Luke asked, pulling his hand back and leaning forward. He gave Julie a grin. "That's always scary, right?"

"Stop it, that's weird."

Neither noticed that Julie had managed to make physical contact with Luke until after she'd shoved him back into the bathroom.

"If I come out there, are you going to poke me in the eyes again?"

"First of all, I didn't," Julie said, appreciating that Luke wasn't reacting with the panicked excitement she felt. "Second of all, I'll try not to."

"Okay, but if you do, I'm really going back into the bathtub."

Julie twisted her fingers and wrung her wrists and bounced nervously as she waited for Luke to step through the door.

"Can we try that again?" Luke asked, holding out both hands to her.

The scene felt vaguely familiar to Julie, and everything came crashing down when her hands passed through Luke's once and then twice.

"You're nervous," Luke said softly, "there's no need to be. You didn't think last time. You weren't nervous."

"I can't. I don't know what it is--"

"Yes, you do. You know it's not us doing anything. You're the one with all the magic, Jules."

Nervous but now confident, Julie tried once again. She thought she'd be able to walk on water whe she felt Luke's hands close around her own. The smile he gave her was the usual dopey look she always noticed him wearing around her.

"See? It's all you."

Julie squeezed his hands, almost like she was afraid she wouldn't be able to hold on much longer. "I like this," she murmured.

"Hey, Jules?"

"Yeah?"

Luke watched her eyes widen the tiniest bit as she gave him a questioning look. "Uh, do you -- about what Carlos said . . . We will talk about that, right?"

"Yes. I promise. Just . . . later?"

"Okay." Just the promise was enough for Luke. Besides, he could hold her, now. He could hold her hand, brush her hair out of her face, hug her. He could even flick her nose or tug her curls to annoy her, nudge her around when she didn't laugh at his jokes. And if -- he hoped she did -- but if she didn't feel the same way he did, then being able to be her best friend and just high five her now and then would still be enough. She wasn't just out of reach anymore.

Ayeeeee this just be sitting in my notes??? I found it like this??? All it needed was a title??? Speaking of, I might change that title and steal it for a sad fic oop

[einsteinsugly]

My favorite and least favorite things about That '70s Show, a list...

My favorite things:

1. Eric, Eric, and Eric. I identify with him (and Donna) so much. He's a socially awkward nerd who's just trying to figure his way out in the world. In my Two Worlds Apart universe, he finds his way in the world, and I wish the series gave him that too. And explored why he would be a good teacher, instead of awkwardly tacking it on at the last second.

2. Eric and Donna. The writers ran out with ideas on what to do with them in seasons 6 and 7, for one simple reason. They wanted to keep the gang in the basement, and that impulse held both Eric and Donna back. Rendering them as hollow shells of their former selves, as Eric hibernated. And Donna went blonde (I know Laura dyed it for a role, but it works with the saddening narrative, okay?).

But in the earlier seasons, they were loving. Playful. Not just lovers, but friends. For a million years. The later seasons stripped that away, and in my Two Worlds Apart universe, I give it back to them. Along with some worthwhile adventures, from college to traveling the world. And more.

3. The '70s setting. Why I came in the first place, because I'm a history and political nerd who's fascinated by the world around me. In the past and present, even if history and politics are both infuriating and brutal (well, this fascination was to a much lesser degree when I was 13/14, but it was definitely there). I loved the deeper socioeconomic, political stuff in the early seasons, and I wish they kept going with it (I keep going with it in my universe, because I'm a dork, and that's what I do).

In fact, I wish they had a Disco Demolition Night episode, even though there are so many dark undertones to it (holy crap, that is one massive can of worms). It happened in Chicago, it was targeted right at their demographic, and I'm pretty sure Hyde and Donna would've heard about it through the grapevine beforehand. But I guess that's a bit of a pipe dream, wouldn't it? And it would literally just end in Kelso (and maybe Fez, because he followed Kelso like a puppy dog onto the field) getting arrested.

4. Jackie and Hyde. A bit of the opposites attract trope, with a deeper connection. Their horrible upbringings, as they come together, to make up for what the other lacks (for Jackie, it's the purposeful lack of deeper insight [more often than not], and for Hyde, it's bottling up his emotions). An obvious endgame that's been screwed over on numerous occasions, by season 8 and with T9S. The latter being for reasons not pertaining to the characters, but to the actors.

5. Red and Kitty, especially in the earlier seasons. They're so in love, and are such an undying classic. I think Kitty would outlive Red by at least a decade, though, which makes me so, so sad.

My least favorite things:

1. Season 8, and honestly, much of season 7. And some little chunks of season 6, too (*cough* Hyde and Red crushing on Pam, in particular, *cough*).

2. Jackie and Fez. No chemistry, whatsoever. *Gags*

3. Kelso, during most of the series. He's a massive jackass, to say the least. And Jackie doesn't deserve him. So tack on Jackie and Kelso here, too. Although I love Kelso and Brooke, because Brooke makes Kelso a touch more palatable.

4. Fez from season 5 onward. What a massive creep. I usually revert him to seasons 1-4 Fez, but in my Two Worlds Apart universe, that takes some time.

5. The abundance of alcoholics in the later seasons (Kitty, Pam, etc). If it was taken seriously like with Bud and Edna in the earlier seasons, I wouldn't mind. But it's used for laughs, particularly in regards to Kitty (not to mention they dumbed her down, too. Which makes me so, so sad).

[istgimamess]

Label: JYP entertainment

Stage name: Song Ha Rin [Ha means great or talented, Rin means unicorn; so yeah, I picked this name for you because you're a great, talented unicorn and you should be protected at all cost, duhh]

Debut year: 2016 (3 years active)

Debut concept: electric pop, upbeat, cute and girly, sassy girl power, dance and vocal heavy

Number of members: 5

Group name: HolyElectric

Fandom name: Sparks

Position: main dancer, vocal line, the mom of the group [because you're super protective, patient and caring]

Male bestie: Choi Minho (SHINee)

How you meet: he's your protector but also your tormentor, if you're being honest! Your first meeting was a bit of a shit show, one minute you're practicing some basic dance moves for a live broadcast and the next you're hanging off the side of the stage in a mess of limbs and covered in water. His necklace tangled in your hair, your heel caught in his belt loop; the both of you soaked beyond repair, an empty water pitcher laying hazardously at the bottom of the stairs. "Umm, you think you can tell your pants to let go of my shoe!?" "Yeah, as soon as your hair releases my necklace.." He pushes at your forehead, palm covering your face completely, nothing happens. You knee at his torso and hip, nothing happens; you both try again. "Ouch! Watch yourself, King Kong! I cant breath!" "Okay, let's not panic! It'll just leave me pantsless and you bald!" After that it was like you were inseparable, quickly becoming friends through the shared experience of that tragic, embarrassing event. Turns out you have a lot in common, personality wise! You're both really sarcastic and just plain goofy; (you have this game, always competing to see who can make the funniest, goofiest faces) so, obviously, you make eachother laugh alot but you're also very protective over one another. "Hey, Minho! HolyElectric's Harin is your best friend, right?" "Yeah, she is! Why?" "Shall we send her a little video!? Quickly do something to make her laugh!" "Harin, I miss you!...(^ gif ^)..."

Female bestie: Tiffany Young (SNSD)

How you meet: you take singing very serious! You're always working on your vocals, trying out new techniques, experimenting with your range; you're very hardworking and your dedication to getting better is something everyone seems to notice about you, right off the bat. So you're always down for vocal classes and one on one's with your vocal coach, always excited to learn something new! And that's how you meet Tiffany, through a friend of a friend of a friend of your vocal coach! You were doing your warm ups, waiting on your teacher to arrive when Tiffany stuck her head in the room to compliment you on your vibrato! You tend to come off as a bit rude, because of how shy you are, so at first it didn't really go well! "Wow, you sound so good! Those runs were amazing!" "Umm, I know..no, I-..I mean, it's not like I think I'm super good or anything..I-..sorry." She ended up laughing your response off and joining you in the room! You quickly became really good friends, constantly listening to music and practicing together; going out for lunch and meeting up on the weekends for some quality shopping time! "Who would you say your best friend is?!" "Oh, she is also a singer! Her name is Harin and she's in the girl group HolyElectric! We hang out together probably every week!" "Oh really!? What are your favorite things to do together!?" "We are both shopoholics, so we're constantly shopping! And afterwards I always drag her out for ice cream because..(^gif^).." Your friendship is so cute!

Group bestie: NCT

How you meet: this is probably the most unconventional way you've ever made a group of friends but it worked, whether you wanted it to or not. There are probably a hand full of things that you absolutely hate in life: people who lie, crabs and bugs are just a few! When faced with any of these, more specifically crabs and/or bugs, you tend to run the opposite way, screaming at the top of your lungs, arms flailing! It's your natural reaction! So when you find yourself being used as a human shield between a grown ass man-child and bugzilla, you're forced to square up and save the man child! "OH MY GOD SAVE ME IT'S GOING TO EAT ME AHHHH EOMMA!!" You're being pulled close, your body picked up and thrown around by the trembling boy! You feel like you might actually vomit but also, oddly enough, you feel really protective; the mom in you suddenly coming out: throwing your fists up in a fighting manner, kicking your feet and swatting the sky in defense. "NOT TODAY, SATAN!!" Eventually the bug gives up on it's hostile takeover, there are about 3 seconds worth of calm and suddenly you're surrounded. "Taeyong! What happened!?" "Yeah, we heard screaming!" "I was attacked!! I thought I was going to die!" "What!? What happened!? Attacked by who!? Are you o-" "Yeah, sorry to interrupt, but are we going to actually sit here and pretend like we don't see the girl Taeyong-hyung is holding up off of the ground like a teddy bear?! We just ignoring that!?" "Haechan, dont be rude!" "How am I being rude!?" "You're always-" "Sorry, can you put me down, my legs are going numb.." And it was all down hill from there! They wouldn't leave you alone, following you around like a group of sassy, over-dramatic puppies! But you don't really mind! They're your biggest supporters, always streaming your music and cheering you on during award season! They also send you little video messages to congratulate you on your wins! "...(^gif^)..." "Wait, are you recording?!" "Yeah, Harin is about to perform so we need to send the message fast!" "But not everybody's here yet!" "Well, tell them to hurry!" They're truly adorable!

Boyfriend: Shin Hoseok/Wonho (Monsta X)

Ship name(s): Ha-Ho, Wonha, Ho-Rin

How you meet: you love, love, love traveling and you get the opportunity to travel a lot, with your job; but that's really not enough to satisfy you! So, whenever you have a day off, you like to travel! Nowhere too far, since you only really have the one day, usually to Japan, or China, any place near by! That's where you meet Wonho, in the airport; one second you're grabbing your baggage, minding your own business and the next you're face-full of chest! "Oooff, I'm so sorry-" "It's okay! It's not everyday cute girls use their face to assault my chest!" He's very sure of himself, very honest and openly flirty and it doesn't take long before his assertiveness pulls you out of your shy shell! You spend the day together, grab some coffee and then hit up the local ramen shop! It doesn't take long for you to become official: redcheeks and sweaty palms, shy confessions underneath the bus station hanger. He's the best boyfriend you could ask for, he's practically whipped! And his group members never let him live it down! "Hey, Wonho! Harin stayed the night last night, didnt she!? But you guys were soooo quiet, in your room! What were you doing!? Quickly, tell the camera!" "...(^gif^)..." They make him suffer, you find it hilarious!

Your biggest fan: Kim Yeri (Red Velvet) is probably your biggest fan! She is constantly making dance covers to your songs, streaming your music and watching your v-lives! "I'm a huge fan of HolyElectric! My favorite is Harin! She's such a good dancer and her vocals are always on point!" She's very vocal about how much she loves you and your music; so much, that even her fans are trying to make it so that she has the opportunity to meet you! "Yeri-unnie! Harin-unnie is your girl crush, right!?" " Yes~...(^gif^)..." "Hopefully you can meet her soon!" It's ridiculously cute!

Scandle: you're a dancer, that's what you truly want to be known as! You've been dancing since you could stand up straight and you've been like a spunge ever since; always trying to gain as much knowledge over the art, as you can! You take extra classes, make covers, mimic other great dancers, you're constantly in the practice room! So, yeah, you dance more than you breathe, this is not a secret! You've also known EXO's Kim Jongin for years, again, not a secret! He was one of the only idols to really reach out and interact with you in your trainee days; always offering to answer any "idol" questions you may have, offering to practice with you, teaching you new dance moves, critiquing your performances before every evaluation! He quickly ended up becoming your greatest teacher, an even greater friend, almost like a brother! So it's no shocker you're photographed together, a lot: Jongin entering your apartment building, Jongin picking you up and taking you out for dinner, you entering Jongin's apartment building etc. What is a bit shocking? The headlines that come with those photos, when Dispatch drops them. 'Neitizens get a HolyElectric shock when EXO's Kai takes new girl friend!' and 'HolyElectric's Harin sparks new dating rumors! Could EXO's Kim Jongin be the one?!' It was a bit confusing! "What the?! 'Could EXO's Kim Jongin be the one?!' What Disney movie is this!?" "The good kind, one with a great soundtrack and a beautiful dance number! You should feel lucky!" "I just threw up a little bit.." It's really cruel how much Jongin's enjoying your discomfort!

Other activities: obviously you're a great dancer, singer and all around performer but sometimes you really just want to be challenged! So when you're management team signs you up for a spot in 'The King of Mask Singer' singing competition, you're both super excited and super nervous! It ends up going well and you gain a ton of new friends and even more fans from the experience! "It was so fun! I didnt know singing could be so exhilarating!" "So what?! You want to give up dance and become the next Mariah Carey?! Good choice! Less competition for me~" "Jongin, I will cut you.." What a massive dork!

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@bbwonho here is your private idol life ship! I hope you like it~ Let me know what you think! 😌

[tropiq-goddess]

how we know the signs tbh

aries: ready and ambitious for everything. one track minded. doesn't think of all the consequences in their actions. hard headed. really fun company. strong and outspoken. pretty aggressive. unintentionally offensive. aren't big on planning things out prior.

taurus: blunt. generally pretty gloomy. fakes a lot of their smiles. very biased. messy. someone a lot of people probably like. hungry. very stubborn. insecure. have difficult times holding conversations. self absorbed. either never sleeps or sleeps all day.

gemini: outgoing. extremely funny/entertaining. impulsive with their decisions. has high expectations. intimidating at first. PROBLEMATIC. intelligent. very sensual. they flare their nostrils. initially intimidating. talkative when excited about things. spontaneous. flirty. aren't quick to settle down. busy.

cancer: extremely emotional. expressive. enjoys attention. trustworthy individuals. high-key dramatic. independent. craves safety and security. they just want to feel comfy in their own skin. great people to gossip with. shady. their trust is sacred.

leo: usually attracts attention. speaks their mind. outgoing. thinks highly of themselves. athletic. questionable decisions. animated when speaking. love-hate relationships. you probably won't know their opinion of you. can be extremely rude. energetic. overreacting to things is common.

virgo: rude exterior. really chill overall. relatable. softspoken. honest. they tend to think a lot. very deep. passionate and talkative over their interests. imaginative. poor memory. reliable. gets fussy when irritated. have a hard time expressing their emotions. respectful. can come off as a know it all.

libra: outwardly happy individuals at most times. they keep a lot of secrets and don't like to tell. can turn on you easily and backstab you if you give them some kind of reasoning. usually they really want to fit in with everyone. gives mixed signals. tries to be relatable. social butterfly. flatter others.

scorpio: gets really possessive and jealous over people and their things. extremely emotional. cares about others a lot. you don't want to get them upset. probably has trust issues. don't seem as nice as they probably are. very loyal. communicates through their eyes. either very clingy or very distant.

sagittarius: usually has rude opinions. fun loving dorks. goes with the flow. childish. very funny. careless decisions. they have very little patience. go beyond their limits. terrible temper. they hate feeling like they're alone. love playing games. seem like happy people. dread silence. tries to avoid their responsibilities.

capricorn: calm. responsible with the stuff that is important to them. more on the quieter side. enjoys fun on their terms. when on their good side, they're more outwardly happy and emotional. ambitious. tends to have a more pessimistic outlook on things. has a very hard shell. puts on facade that they're self assured of everything.

aquarius: confusing reactions. gives all or nothing. runs away from commitment. narcissistic. either highly optimistic or extremely pessimistic, no in between. very low key popular. can be the life of the party. generous to others. crazy. avoids confrontation. quick learners but usually reluctant. stubborn.

pisces: extremely selective over who gets to be around them. high standards. outwardly kind. observes others and their habits. puts themselves on a pedestal. usually pretty lazy but still gets stuff done. passionate in conversations that are in their interest. idolize those they love. takes their rants very seriously. quiet exterior.