#this story i've been watching unfold for five years

[potterbite]

at the rate interviews with oliver are put out, you cannot leave this site unsupervised for one second tbh. when he was let go of the leash they truly said "be free and tell them EVERYTHING" huh

[bluemooniegif]

Soukoku's first meeting could not have been written more perfectly. Allow me to explain

A quick note on the manga panels: these are fan translations from BSD Bibliophile. At one stage they refer to Dazai as 'the youngest boss in Mafia history,' and the executive meeting as 'a meeting of five bosses.' This is just a stylistic choice! All of the panels shown here are from chapters 8 (volume 2), 10 & 11 (volume 3)

I love this scene more than life itself, because it is literally the PERFECT introduction to Chuuya, his character, and his relationship with Dazai. Let's talk about it!

First: some context. Dazai seems to be in a bit of a predicament- he's walked right into a trap set by the Port Mafia, an organisation that we don't know much about at this stage in the story. What we do know, and what we can observe, is this:

Dazai is a former executive, and appears to have walked into the trap on purpose

He is now being held in a room that Akutagawa describes very negatively- the fact of being here is dangerous

Dazai reveals that Akutagawa was once his subordinate, and that he thought very lowly of him at the time. He claims to still think of him this way. Akutagawa has a violent reaction to this.

This is a PERFECT example of 'showing, not telling' within a story. Rather than making a bunch of asides, describing what Dazai and Akutagawa are feeling and why, Asagiri & Harukawa have plopped us into the middle of a rather awkward reunion. I feel like I've walked into my friend's Christmas dinner and am now witnessing family politics unfold real time. It's like watching a car crash.

Now, we move between settings a bit, jumping around to watch Yosano DESTROY Kajii, Atsushi rescue Kyouka, and subsequently be injured and kidnapped by Akutagawa. We watch the Agency fall into disarray when Fukuzawa demands that everyone go looking for Atsushi- interesting, considering that Dazai is IN THE BASEMENT OF THE PORT MAFIA RIGHT NOW.

I've had lots of discussions and arguments about the meaning and significance of this. I won't delve too deep into it for now, but the way I see it is this: something the ADA is really REALLY good at is splitting up Mystery-Inc. style and working to solve cases etc., together, but apart. Dazai is also something of a stray dog (... cat), regularly wandering off and reappearing of his own accord. He's been with the ADA for several years at this point, and they would understand the way he operates well. Even if there's no indication whether he explicitly told anyone what he's doing or where he's going (which honestly, does that matter, when Ranpo would know immediately anyway?), we can safely assume that this is more or less a regular thing for them.

Anyway, back to the point. the Agency is not fazed by Dazai's disappearance... and neither, for some reason, is Dazai. He stands chained to the wall in the PM's basement- the same one, we discover later, where he's brutally tortured countless victims and traitors, and he's humming a little tune to himself, smiling, totally relaxed. We as the audience know he's pretty unflappable, and Akutagawa's expression when he sees him confirms this, too.

But. BUT. This doesn't last.

With the ADA descending into chaos, we switch perspectives back to Dazai again. He's bored at this stage, and thinking to himself that they must be searching for Atsushi soon (an indication that he was riling Akutagawa up earlier, btw) when he hears it: A voice that makes his resolve crack. A look of panic on his face that, at this stage, we haven't seen yet.

He turns, and we see Chuuya for the first time! He's got this strange smug look on his face, something deeply vindictive. Here's a current mafia executive, and he's so happy to see Dazai chained to the wall of their Torture Basement that you can't help but wonder... is there something that Dazai did to him, personally, that makes him feel this way? Or is this guy just so deeply involved with the PM that the fact Dazai left is like a personal slight against him?

Now, we don't really have long enough to truly panic over this predicament, because almost immediately these two fall into their old habits. Dazai isn't PLEASED, but he isn't afraid. He goes right into bantering with Chuuya, who surprisingly meets him right in the middle. Their regular dynamic shines right through: it's quick-witted quips, inside jokes, and knowing looks. It's this odd relaxation in their posture. In all of this, we have an acknowledgement of what they were, and evidence to suggest that they still are... whatever that thing is. Whatever you wanna call it: partners, boyfriends, best friends, buddies. That much is up to interpretation; the only undeniable fact is that they once knew each other better than themselves, and still do.

Then, the fight. This, to me, comes across as more of a way to display how powerful they both are individually: Chuuya punches concrete so hard it shatters in several places, Dazai snaps his fingers and breaks out of handcuffs.

We have front-row seats to what is in my opinion one of the best action sequences in early BSD, not just for what physically transpires, but what it tells us: they deeply understand each other on multiple levels. They're constantly predicting each other's moves, and they know where each other's weak spots are.

But there's also been a lot of growth. Dazai surprises Chuuya a few times, and vice-versa. Despite their apparent closeness, it's still clear that they haven't been together like this for a long, long time.

Then, they reach checkmate. It appears as though Chuuya has won, and we're fed some more Dazai lore- he was the youngest executive the PM ever saw.

This is how Chuuya remembers Dazai. Again, I want to remind you that this is the first time so far we're seeing PM-zai, and he is worlds away from the Dazai we've grown to know so far.

Though Chuuya seems to have driven Dazai into a corner, the roles are quickly reversed when Dazai claims to know something about a meeting between all five of the Mafia's executives. Chuuya quickly realises this is one of his 'predictions,' further proving the depth of their mutual understanding.

With hindsight, we know just how big a deal a meeting of this scale is, and knowing a certain stormbro (who I won't reveal just in case of spoilers) will be there makes me lose my mind, personally. It clearly affects Chuuya, as well, which was undoubtedly Dazai's goal.

With the power balance disrupted again, they quickly fall back into that same bantering dynamic. The volatile nature of their relationship is so perfectly portrayed within this short scene that it actually makes me sick, I genuinely don't think it could have been more perfect

Anyway. Chuuya has realised, at this stage, that Dazai had multiple goals when he allowed himself to be kidnapped, and one of those was to piss Chuuya off (which is something I think he could've managed even if Chuuya wasn't physically there). This, in turn, pisses Chuuya off, especially when he realises the predicament Dazai has left him in- let him escape, or the Mafia suffers. A test of loyalty, Chuuya's greatest weakness. Do you understand why I am tearing my hair out and howling at the moon??? This is fucking insanity.

And then, the final moment! The part we all know and love! Not only does Chuuya choose to err on the side of caution, allowing Dazai to escape- he also leaves with the repetition of another inside joke. And Dazai laughs- he looks genuinely happy, too.

That is all. I'm gonna go cry now ಥ_ಥ

read this original thread on twitter

[genshinwomenontop]

"Even after Centuries later"

☆Prompt: Cloud Retainer and your love story. You're an Adeptus as well.

☆Warnings: Fluff, just fluff.

For as long as you can remember, you've been by Xianyun's side, even when Ganyu was a baby. While she wasn't an expressive person, she did always made sure to show her love to you in ways that only you understood. You're love story with Xianyun was a tale to tell among the people of Liyue. The story of the two Adeptus that loved each other since Liyue was created.

You were the only Adeptus that dwelled among the humans, not only that, you wanted to keep an eye out for Shenhe and Ganyu. When the girls were babies, both of them being babies at separate time, you were the one who always pampered and loved them, and the only Adeptus to understand humans. Though Shenhe was not used to that kind of treatment, she had a different level of respect and love for you.

Since the war, the Adeptus decided to live in the nature, not wanting to dwell the humans but you choose to stay, and live alongside Rex Lapis. Xinayun didn't like that, she couldn't bare the thought of being separated from her beloved partner but she never told you, nor did she express it in anyway, but loving her so long made you understand her even when she wasn't doing anything.

Xianyun was also quite the jealous and overprotective type so when she heard that you've been having lots and lots of attention lately, she had to go down there.

When rumors went around that a beautiful lady came into Liyue, during the Lantern Rite, you had no clue who it was, but Rex Lapis, or Zhongli did, he did not tell you,he waited for that every scene to unfold. You and Ganyu were walking around Liyue, with Shenhe trailing along. The city was peaceful and harmonious, something that the Adeptus fought so hard to achieve and because of you, it was kept that way. They don't call you the 'sustainer of peace' for nothing.

You and Shenhe was accompanying Ganyu to pick up a perfume from Yinger and she had a very strong attraction towards you. "Ah Ms. Y/n, you are looking lovely as the morning sun~" she approached you and held your face.

You smiled and gently removed her hand,"Thank you Ms. Yinger, I'm actually accompanying my dau-I mean friend to pick up something that Lady Ningguang had ordered?"

"Ah yes the perfume. I'm sure that something is going on since she's been ordering so many perfumes lately, but let me get that for you lovelies~"

When she ran off to bag the perfume, Shenhe chuckled, "Well that's five for the morning."

"Master Y/n has been getting alot of attention lately. I wonder what cloud retainer would think if she saw this," Ganyu giggled along with Shenhe, both of them imagining what Xianyun would do.

"Girls,you do have a wild imagination don't you?"

Yinger came back and handed you the perfume. "Well, here you go. It was lovely giving it to you. I do hope you can return the favour," she winked as you walked away.

"That woman..." you sighed.

Ganyu and Shenhe left for the Jade Chamber and you sat down with Zhongli, a sigh escaping your lips. "A rough day friend?"

"Oh dear, don't get me started. Has anything changed about me Zhongli?" He sipped his tea as he hummed.

"You have gotten alot attractive these last few days. I can see why you've been getting this much attention. Don't you like it?"

"I mean... I... I don't know. Its nice and all but every time I smile or say something nice back to someone, I can only see Cloud Retainer. It's like she's watching me from the mountains."

"How long have you seen each other?"

"For almost two years. I've been busy!"

Zhongli's eyes drifted behind you before returning back to you. "Don't you miss her?"

"I do. But I can't go now, she'll sense something is wrong and begin questioning me. You know how inquisitive she can." You sipped your cup of tea.

"One certainly is not inquisitive!" You spat out your tea and let out a scream. Zhongli laughed as you saw a very angry cloud Retainer behind you. She was in her human form.

"C-cl-baby! Hello!"

"Don't baby me. Do you like these attentions that are given to you?" Her arms were folded, and she glared at you.

"I-no! I don't..." As an Adeptus, you weren't afraid of anything. Anything except your wife.

She sighed before relaxing and taking a seat. "Re-Ehem, Zhongli. It's a pleasure to see you again. One was concerned with your well being."

"Xianyun. Its good to see you as well. Y/n here has been missing you quite alot these days."

Xianyun opened one eye and she stared at you. "I doubt she has. With all the attention she's been receiving and accepting, I don't think she misses me one bit."

"My love don't say that."

Zhongli smiled as he watched the two of you bicker back and forth. "Hmmm, just like old times."

The three of you sat down and caught up. Zhongli told Xianyun how the human world is like and to say she wasn't pleased was an understatement but having you by her side will help her to cope. Zhongli bid goodbye to you both as you took Xianyun on a walk and since it was night, Liyue looked even beautiful but nothing could beat the beauty of your wife. "One can feel your intense gaze." She said as she smiled slightly.

You held her hand as the two of you went to Mt. Laixin, using your adeptal powers to get there. "You're beautiful. Keep staying in this form will ya?"

"Ha! So you are implying that my animal form is not beautiful?"

"N-no that's not what I meant! I meant to say that you're beautiful and that this form suits you well. I can even get to kiss you and hold you properly." Xianyun blushed and adjusted her glasses.

"Hmmph! If you insist, I shall remain in this form. I want to settle down in Liyue Harbor for a couple of years. I would like to engage in the human world and their daily activities."

The two of you took a seat on the grass, admiring the big moon. "Well the human life isn't hard once you get to adapt to it. I'll even help you." She nodded as she kept admiring the moon.

"Do you remember our wedding night? That night certainly hasn't left my mind," she chuckled. That night, the two of you showed each other how much you really loved each other. You even used your adeptal powers to give you a male genital to please Xianyun.

"I do. It's one of those nights I'll never forget."

"Since one will be staying here... can we do it again? And this time, let's try for a child." You stared at her with wide eyes.

"H-huh?"

"I know you are not incapable of hearing. I request a child from you."

"Really? I-I... that's-that's great news! I'd be more than happy to have you bear my child!"

You lifted her up and twirled her around as she let out a small squeal. "This is amazing! We can finally have a child! I can't wait! Let's start tonight!"

Before she could protest, you were already on your way home, using your powers you got wings and you held her bridal style as you flew home. Xianyun gently grabbed your face as she admired your features. "I love you y/n," she pressed a kiss to your cheek with a small smile.

"Well I love you even more. Even after centuries, my love for you never faded and it never will."

[outrunningthedark]

What are your thoughts on Bucktommy/Buddie now? Has anything changed? I can't help but notice you seem to be distancing yourself from Buddie (or more specifically from Buddie stans? – I bet you still love the pairing) and embracing Bucktommy more (you do seem more protective over them now than you were before) but I also might be projecting so I figured it'd be better to ask.

Hey, nonnie. Questions are always welcome. <3 I still have love for the Buddie dynamic and will always appreciate the organic, innate chemistry Ryan and Oliver bring to the screen, but it's something that I've learned to live without while still enjoying the show, if that makes sense. Back in seasons four and five, for instance? I was not afraid to express my disappointment over a Buddie scene that didn't meet expectations or could have been included over whatever happened in canon. Since season six and even more so as we got through season seven? If we get Buddie content, great, I'll enjoy it for those few minutes, but I'm not asking *where* Buddie is or *why* scenes got cut or even thinking ahead to what might happen for them the next week. It makes my viewing experience much more satisfying these days, especially with show runners who CLEARLY do not plan months, never mind weeks in advance and will change any part of a story line or scene to fit their mood at any given time. Do I think Buddie could still happen? I choose not to rule it out completely because we can't time things that have no current end date, but as it stands, I think it would be something that isn't seriously considered until near the end of the series/the story because at that point...there's nothing to lose, you know? When it comes to BuckTommy, I have definitely activated my "protective side" not because I am already planning "endgame" in my head (look at Lone Star - endgame isn't real), but I can't sit back and watch people deliberately misrepresent facts (as in, things that are canon) to fit a headcanon. Especially when we've had Ryan out here on multiple occasions explaining why Buddie's platonic friendship resonates with him. He could change his mind, absolutely, but as of right now? I won't be silent while people disregard his personal feelings for the sake of winning a fabricated ship war. I respect his journey regardless of whatever crap he's put out on the internet through the years because I'm not him and I don't know what he went through as that young kid from Sacramento. Also, just like I don't appreciate people trying to speak about me and my experiences as a person with a visible disability, I feel it's important to boost the opinions of the fans, the male fans, who actually understand the story we're watching unfold. [As much as queer women might be able to relate to parts of Buck's journey, it's not actually FOR the women when there are no queer women involved. And guess who's overseeing every detail? A man.]

What will happen with BuckTommy? I doubt Tim even knows that 😉 But I'll welcome their romance for as long as ABC thinks it's worth telling. And if Buck were to move on with someone new? I'll watch that, too. I'm just going where the story takes me, honestly. It's how I've (finally) found my peace.

[davycoquette]

the interview 3/3

PART ONE PART TWO

I unlock his front door and step out onto the porch. His lawn is wide and flat with the Bermuda grass shorn close to the soil. In the midmorning sun his driveway is searingly white, and my eyes burn like I've just emerged from a crypt into the dawn of life.

It’s situated on a nondescript length of highway. I figure it's got a name the locals know, but the map unfolded on my passenger seat just calls it US HWY 29. His driveway cuts a straight path from the two-lane highway, and simply sits in this giant barren yard with no rhyme or reason guiding its placement. Just a plain brick monolith smack dab in the Virginia countryside. The closest building in sight is an ancient barn at the end of the road, which is halfway through the process of being smothered under a blanket of kudzu.

The Amigo's doors are unlocked, so I help myself to my benzos and a cigarette. I empty the ashy dredges of yesterday’s coffee onto R. Barclay's lawn.

Standing there smoking, I can't help but imagine how things might have played out if I got here in time to talk to the guy; R. Barclay's final interview. Maybe he would have said something really great; revealed a manuscript on the cusp of being publishable. I could've been the last person to ever speak to him. My name could've come attached to the news articles — R. Barclay found dead in his Virginia home hours after talking with journalist Franky Wilcox.

Well, it's a working headline. That one paints me as a suspect.

I think about how, right now, I'm the only person who knows he's dead. I read something about how he never married, never had kids. I wonder who the next of kin is; who's going to be uprooted from their life once I call this in to come and rummage through his things. Maybe they'll find the unfinished work and publish it. The daydream shifts to me being the one, of course. To stealing it and publishing it as if I were the writer.

Now that'd make a good story — but what I end up deciding on R. Barclay's lawn that June morning is that I'll pretend the interview did happen.

The only problem is I don't know this man. I didn't get to speak to him beyond a short conversation over the phone.

Hi, Mr. Barclay. My name is Franky Wilcox, and I've been asked to do an interview for The Hammond. Are you familiar with The Hammond, Mr. Barclay?

Oh, hello. Yes. Hello, yes.

I heard it was your birthday this month.

Oh, yes. I’m ninety years old.

Well, happy birthday, Mr. Barclay. Would you be available to do an interview with me? For The Hammond.

An interview… When? I've got a doctor's appointment this Monday.

When's good for you, Mr. Barclay?

Early, I guess. My mind's better in the mornings.

Sure; how early?

Well, I get up around five-thirty and let my little dog out.

Uh-huh. There was no way in hell I was driving out to Bumfuck, Virginia at five in the morning. How does eight sound? Maybe on Tuesday?

Eight o'clock on Tuesday. I imagine he was looking at his calendar when he said, Yes, alright.

I drop my cigarette on his white driveway and snuff it under my shoe, then return to the house. It's more harrowing to step inside this time around, and I prop the storm door open. Raisin bursts out at once, and I turn to watch as the dog — a he, evidently — raises a leg on the bushes. He promptly shits next to them. Must have been holding it for a long time.

‧˚��꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

That's all, so far! Not sure if I'll continue working on this one in the future or not. If you read this far, thank you so much!

[ink-dusted-dreams]

Analyzing the manga panels where Kenshin dreams of Tomoe after leaving Rakuninmura

These five pages hold a profound place in my heart, a beautiful testimony of the depths of love found in literature. To discover such emotional depth in a Shounen manga was beyond my expectations.

The scene unfolds with Kenshin gazing upon a familiar scenery. Yet, his eyes remain devoid of emotion, perhaps because this scenery has replayed within his mind countless times. In this moment, he believes Kaoru to be dead, he failed to protect her, her death is the grim result of revenge stemming from an accidental act - the death of Tomoe. He is uncertain if this vengeance aligns with Tomoe's wishes, for time has separated them for 15 years already. The home and love he found after 15 years of grieving for his late wife lie in ruins. His mind and soul are destroyed, and his eyelids weigh heavily, yet he gazes at the familiar scene before him.

He knows what to expect as he recognizes the sound of familiar footsteps and the hem of the familiar kimono.

He soon gazes upon that familiar face, fully aware it's but an illusion, for she cannot exist in reality. Still, he continues to look at her. He refrains from speaking to her, perhaps believing she won't reply, a notion he's perhaps tested in the past.

It's truly heart-wrenching. Imagine someone incredibly dear to you, now long gone. You see an illusion, a ghost of that person, and you understand that no matter how much you call out, they'll never return. What will you do?

But this time, she speaks, and his eyes light up. He smiles, responds, and simply gazes at her as if that's all he ever needed.

I used to be genuinely puzzled by this. Many readers interpret Kenshin's emotions toward Tomoe as guilt, and I admit, I once shared that view. However, this chapter altered my perspective.

Yet, the right words to describe Kenshin's expression in these panels always eluded me. I eventually realized it might be because I had the entire backstory in my head. I had a hunch that an unrelated third party, someone unfamiliar with the story, might grasp it better. So, I shared these two panels with my artist mother, a 65-year-old who's never read manga or watched anime. Her observations were fascinating and truly eye-opening.

Regarding the panel above, I posed these questions to her:

"What emotions do you believe these two characters are experiencing?"

In response, my mother conveyed her thoughts on Tomoe, stating, "She appears to be showing concern."

As for Kenshin, her perspective was "A mix of surprise and sadness."

I went a step further and shared the image above with her because I've always found it challenging to discern his emotions. I believed that my mother, who is not only an artist but also a deeply empathetic individual, might be able to grasp his feelings.

Her response, after translation, was as follows:

"He appears to be gazing at something, and whatever he sees, he feels..."

She paused for a moment.

I asked her, "Do you think he feels happy?"

She replied, "No. I don't believe it's happiness; there's no sense of excitement."

She continued, struggling to find the right word, "It's more like...whatever he's witnessing... it's what he yearned to see. Like, this is it."

Finally, she found the word. Being of Indian descent, she used the term "Prashanti (प्रशांति)."

In my mind, everything fell into place. It was the word I had been searching for. "Prashanti" translates to "peace," but "peace" translates to "Shanti (शांति)." Prashanti, however, signifies "supreme peace." His expression seems to convey a sense of completeness.

In the next panels, he begins to talk about his conviction but averts her gaze. I found myself curious about this, but after reading the Japanese scanlations, it all became clear. Regrettably, I don't have all the pages to share here.

Instead of using "これからも" (which means "From now on"), he opts for "これからも…多分…" (which means "From now on... probably..."). He concludes all his sentences with "するよ" rather than just "する." This may seem subtle, but it carries significant weight because he's indirectly seeking her agreement. It's akin to the distinction between saying, "I will do it," and "You know, I will do it." Although both convey the same action, the latter grants the listener a greater say in the decision. In the context of Japanese, this difference is even more pronounced. It leads me to believe that, at this point, his promise isn't entirely set in stone.

In the next panel, Tomoe wears a serene smile and calmly responds, "Yes," as if she was aware of it from the start.

In the next panel, The translation reads "You are finally smiling." However, in the Japanese scanlations, it becomes apparent that he says "やっと笑ってくれた," which means "You are finally smiling for me."

In the next panel, Tomoe tells him, "If you smile, the me inside you will always smile with you." We witness Kenshin's expression, a look of utter astonishment as if he had never fathomed such a notion, not even in his wildest dreams.

But this single panel reveals a world of emotion. It shows that Kenshin had never dared to imagine that Tomoe could feel that way for him. It also suggests that when Kenshin smiles during their conversation, it might just be the first genuine smile he's worn in 15 years because Tomoe mentions she smiles when Kenshin smiles, yet until then, she had never worn that smile.

To me, this reveals a lot about Tomoe's character. She doesn't possess the same kind of strength that Misao and Kaoru do, the strength to relentlessly pursue their love and hold onto it.

Yet, Tomoe imparts a profound lesson that we should all learn — the art of letting go.

She didn't prevent Kiyosato from leaving for Mimawarigumi. She didn't stop Kenshin from taking lives during his time as Ishin Shishi, despite it contradicting her own beliefs. Instead, she questioned him and let him make his own choices. As she approached her final moments, with her remaining strength, she wiped Kenshin's tears and consoled him, assuring him that everything was as it should be.

Nevertheless, she possessed the strength to be a mother figure and a caring sister to her brother, she had the courage to calmly stand in the presence of a killer, to watch, and to condemn the crime rather than the criminal.

Ultimately, she encouraged him to rise and go to the one who yearns most to see his smile — Kaoru.

It's beautiful because these pages reveal that to Kenshin, Tomoe's smile meant the world. Being with her was all he ever wanted; he never wanted to be apart from her. His love for her was very deep. That's why, hearing her voice, talking to her, and seeing her smile, even though none of it was real, brought him peace, even in the darkest moments, because it was what he truly desired.

Yet, whether we call it fate or a profound backstory to add depth to his character, it's what he lost.

[harmonytheme]

rank Ste love interests which you think were the best/one he loved most to least?

I want to be clear that I'm missing a LOT of context for most of these relationships because I had a pretty huge gap in watching the show regularly and only really kept up with things through the news cycle.

That being said.

Brendan

I watched their story unfold while they were airing over a decade ago and I still get emotional about them on occasion. It's rare that something sticks with me for that long. Their development as a couple was stellar, their chemistry as actors was phenomenal, they were the loves of each others lives and I'm never going to stop believing that. HO legends.

2. Doug

It was never going to work out between them with Brendan hanging around but this period might have been the healthiest of Ste's life. He started a business, had gotten his shit together, was committed to supporting himself and his kids. Doug was such a positive influence and he really, truly, loved Ste. RIP buddy.

3. John Paul

They didn't last long but I love John Paul, okay???? He got Ste through a really tough time in his life and to this day JP stays looking out for Ste's kids!!! Love him to death. I wouldn't be mad if they got together again.

4. Rex

What can I say. This is the most hyped I've been about a Ste relationship in years. I love Jonny Labey. They have great chemistry. Sterex have the makings of an amazing couple if they get it right! We're five minutes into their ~affair but I see such potential!

5. Harry

I never really got into them because Harry's age warded me off a bit. I can appreciate their relationship more in hindsight though.

6. James

it's James. He punched Ste's teenage son in the face and locked him in a shed overnight. Also they probably wouldn't have ended up together if Harry wasn't axed.

7. Noah

There are only two images that appear when you google him. Need I say more. Flop of a relationship.

7. Sinead O'Connor

Ste's straight resurgence era. I want to forget. I wish I could.

I'm not even going to include Ryan on this list.

If platonic relationships counted Amy would be up there in first equal place 🥺

I hope that satisfied your curiosity! If we disagree on things that's okay :) This is just my worthless semi-uninformed opinion.

[lunardragon00]

The Heir (Choi San x OC)

Masterlist

Genre: Fantasy , Lord!San x Princess!OC

Words: 4317

Authors Note: This one is one of the few time jumps this story will have, just keep that in mind.

Warning: Talks of war and battle // not very gruesome // Violence

Chapter Two --> Chapter Three --> Chapter Five

ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 𝔉𝔬𝔲𝔯 - ℜ𝔢𝔲𝔫𝔦𝔬𝔫𝔰

Three Years Later.....

The war had been long and tough, many sleepless nights made the fighting men tired and weak. A group of men gathered around a long table, battle strategies thrown to one another. 

"We have sixteen, perhaps eighteen seaworthy ships. 700 foot, some 60 knights. Our food will quickly dwindle, save for what we can fish from the sea. I would say we have a fortnight, mayhaps longer with strict rationing. I've made call for Coralrift to send more ships, but it will takes weeks before they arrive. We are faltering and the triarchy knows it. We must press the attack, continue sending the dragons." The group watched as Lord Jungchul's brother, Lord Jaehyun, spoke. His son, Choi Jongho spoke. 

"It's pointless father, the crab feeders created a chokepoint here beyond these dunes. " Jongho moves a piece on the table, displaying points located in the battlefield. 

"Archers hold their high positions, foot soldiers hold the ground. We strike them on dragonback again and again, but they just retreat within the caves." Men looked at the placements on the makeshift map, agreeing with the young lords words. Jaehyun, not pleased, stared down his son. 

"Dragons can circle Bloodstone until fall out of the sky." He now looked to his brother, who had been supporting him in this fight. "The crab feeder and his men have no reason to leave those caves." Jongho cuts him off.

"Then we must give them one. An offering of flesh to bait the crab." Silence rested over them. 

"Who?" As Lord Jungchul posed the question, the air was filled with an uneasy silence. The men of House Choi exchanged wary glances, uncertain about the ominous proposition of offering someone to the crab forces. The atmosphere was thick with tension, and the weight of the impending decision hung in the air. Suddenly, a high-pitched screech pierced through the quietude. All eyes turned skyward, and the soldiers were met with a breathtaking sight – a red-scaled dragon soaring majestically above them. The creature's wings cut through the air with power, casting an imposing shadow over the camp. The men, caught between awe and fear, watched as the dragon circled above them. The vivid red scales shimmered in the sunlight, giving an otherworldly aura to the majestic beast. The dragon's presence added an unexpected layer of complexity to the already charged situation. As the dragon descended, the camp was bathed in a surreal glow. Its fiery eyes scanned the gathering below, adding an unsettling intensity to the unfolding scene.

"Yes, who? Which man here will happily be put to their death. Show me the knight who will march into that camp and I will call him a mad man." Jaehyun stepped closer to his son, who only stood taller,  ready for whatever was to come. 

"San" His father scoffed. "San is why we are losing." He spat at his son. Jongho was not going to relent. 

"At least he is fighting this war. What role have you played in his council Father, other then the master of complaints." Jaehyun didn't know how to reply.

"Enough Jongho...." Jungchul exclaimed, but a pathway was starting to form as the dragon rider walked to the group. The man had full armor on, his house sigil imprinted on his chest plate. Jaehyun turns to leave but his brother held him back by his arm. 

"Family or not Jaehyun, I will not you stoke mutiny." Jaehyun yanked his arm out of the mans grasp. Men moved to the side to let the soldier pass, who glared at the rider approaching the table. The man removed his helmet, hair matted from sweat and face covered in ash. As he took off his gloves, another man spoke. 

"if we do not seize control of this war my Lord, the crabs will soon dine on all of us."  Silence overcame the group, as they had a guest. Horses steps could be heard, the house Kim banner raised above soldiers heads. Each man watched as they approached, a young man walked forward. 

"Lord Jungchul, I bring words from his grace Kang-Dae, first of his name. King of the Andals, the Roynar, and the first men. Lord of the seven kingdoms, and protector of the realm." He reached for the inside of his cloak, pulling out a rolled parchment and handing it to the Lord. Jungchul took it from him and opened the scroll. His face unreadable as he examined it's contents. Once finished, he looked to his own son. He looked back to the messenger and handed the parchment back. A grim smile spread on his face and he leaned his hands upon the table. Looking out to the land, he saw smoke fill the sky, his ships burned down to their very foundation. A sinister laugh came out of him before he took hold of the placed helmet and striked the messenger with it. Men of the group rushed to separate the two, pulling the lord off of the innocent man. 

With the man now fallen, the dragon rider took hold of the parchment. His eyes scanned the contents of the parchment, and with each passing word, a storm of emotions brewed within him. The anger that built was palpable, and his grip on the parchment tightened. The message, a poor attempt of heroism. Twenty thousand ships he was to send, hundreds of soldiers aboard them. After all these years, the King has just now decided to provide aid when they had asked for it long ago.  

"What strategy was discussed?" He demanded. 

Jongho had appeared to be correct, but as was Lord Jaehyun, for San had turned into a mad man. Smoke had cleared the area, bodies revealed to be cut in half, skin burnt to char. Arrows stuck out of the ground everywhere soldiers walked as they searched for any fallen brothers. Lord Jungchul looked around the field, looking for his son's face, but finding it no where. The last time he caught sight of him was when he first approached the crab feeders cave, sword pulled out and placed in front of him, feigning surrender. It had happened quickly, when the crab people were close enough, San had swiftly grabbed his sword and began slicing through them. Aeshara, sensing her rider is danger, came flying down, then all he could see was fire encircling the area. 

He was about to shout his name, when movement was seen from inside the cave. Jungchul pulled his sword out, approaching with men following closely behind. Once the body came out to the sunlight, Jungchul relaxed, puting his sword back in it's sleeve. Armor and face covered in blood, his son emerged from the cave, dragging the crab feeders body behind him. 

-----------

The rough water rocked the ship, making the princess start to feel sick. She stood on the deck, overlooking the vast sea. She watched as birds flew overhead, their wings catching the breeze. The salty air filled her nostrils, and the rhythmic sounds of the waves crashing against the ship provided a soothing backdrop. Despite the seasickness creeping in, Hana found solace in the vastness of the ocean. Prince Wooyoung joined her on the deck. He too gazed out at the horizon, his expression thoughtful. The two friends shared a moment of quiet contemplation, surrounded by the boundless expanse of water.

"Seems like the sea has a mind of its own today," Wooyoung remarked, his eyes narrowing against the sun's reflection on the water. Hana nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. 

"It's unpredictable, much like life itself." As the ship sailed further into uncharted waters, the anticipation of heading home made her heart fill with excitement. The dornish prince nudged her shoulder. 

"Since when did you become so wise princess? Have all those philosophy books finally get to you?" Hana laughed, shaking her head at his joke. 

"Perhaps they have," she replied, her eyes still fixed on the distant horizon. "Or maybe I've just learned to appreciate the lessons life teaches us, even the unpredictable ones." The crew on the ship bustled around, their tasks keeping the vessel on course. The sea breeze carried with it a sense of freedom and adventure, and Hana couldn't help but feel a renewed spirit within her.Wooyoung looked at her, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. 

"You've changed, Hana. The girl who used to sneak into the city for secret adventures seems more... composed now." She sighed, a mix of nostalgia and maturity in her voice. 

"We all grow up eventually, Woo. And sometimes, life forces us to face things we never expected." The ship sailed on, leaving behind the vast sea as it carried the friends closer to Drake's Landing. Hana couldn't shake the feeling that the journey ahead held more surprises and challenges.

"I'm surprised you stayed in Sunsphinx for so long, I was expecting you to leave the moment you got there." Wooyoung said. "I'll admit, the weather was something I had to adjust to, but truthfully I enjoyed myself." Hana responded. 

"I suppose the warmth of Sunsphinx has its own charm," Wooyoung remarked, a playful glint in his eyes. "And who knows, maybe I found something that made your presence enjoyable." Hana raised an eyebrow, catching the subtle implication in his words. 

"Oh, is there a particular reason you enjoyed my presence so much?" she teased, curious to know if there was more to his statement. Wooyoung chuckled. "Perhaps I will share it with you another time." As the ship sailed steadily, the banter between the two continued, creating a lighthearted atmosphere amidst the vast expanse of the sea. As they sailed, a sudden shout cut through the air, warning of an impending threat

"DRAGON" The unexpected turbulence tossed the ship from side to side, and Hana, standing on the deck, struggled to maintain her balance. In the chaos, she collided with the side of the ship, the impact causing her to wince in pain. Wooyoung, quick to react, rushed to her side. 

"Princess, are you alright?" he asked, concern etched on his face. Hana held her head, feeling the aftermath of the collision.

"I'm alright," she reassured him, attempting a small smile despite the throbbing ache. Wooyoung gently helped her stand and examined her head for any signs of injury. Fortunately, there was no blood. As they stood together, Hana and Wooyoung watched the red dragon fly east. The uncertainty of the situation hung in the air, and Hana's thoughts swirled with questions. She knew the dragons of her house, but this one remained a mystery.

"Who is that?" Wooyoung inquired, seeking guidance from the princess.

"I'm not sure," Hana admitted, her gaze fixed on the majestic creature. The distinct color of its scales indicated that it was neither her brother's dragon nor any she was familiar with. The dragon's roars reverberated through the air, stirring a mixture of awe and trepidation among the crew. The ship sailed on, leaving the enigmatic dragon behind, but the encounter left an unsettling feeling in Hana's heart. 

-----------

As Hana and Wooyoung stepped off the ship, the bustle of activity around the dock greeted them. The crew worked diligently to unload their belongings, preparing for the journey to the Red Keep. A knight, standing at the end of the dock in resplendent armor, caught Hana's attention.

"Sir Jaime," she exclaimed, her smile brightening at the sight of her old friend. Jaime turned towards her, his armor gleaming in the sunlight, a white cape flowing elegantly in the gentle breeze.

"Princess, welcome home," he greeted with a bow, his short golden blonde hair framing his face. His gaze shifted to Wooyoung at Hana's side.

"Ah, Prince Wooyoung, a pleasure to see you again," Jaime acknowledged, offering a courteous nod. Wooyoung reciprocated the greeting, expressing his gratitude. The trio began to make their way toward the Red Keep, the iconic structure towering in the distance. As they walked, Hana felt a mix of emotions—excitement at being back, curiosity about what awaited her, and the lingering sense of uncertainty after the encounter with the red dragon.

"I would like to stop by the training yard." She exclaimed, Sir Jaime acknowledged her wish with a nod of his head. 

"Will Yeosang be coming to Drake's Landing soon?" Hana asked. "I'm sure he'll want to. Depending on what happens." Wooyoung responded. She hummed in agreement. 

As Hana and Wooyoung strolled through the courtyard, the distant sounds of clashing swords grew louder, drawing their attention. A crowd had gathered at the center, indicating that Hongjoong was indeed putting on a display of his swordsmanship. The princess couldn't help but smile, knowing her brother's penchant for showcasing his skills. Approaching the gathering, they found a space at the edge of the crowd to watch. Hongjoong moved with grace, his sword a blur in the air as he parried and struck with precision. The onlookers were captivated by the spectacle, cheering and applauding with each impressive move. 

Sir Jaime, who had followed them, leaned in and whispered to Hana, "Your brother's skills with a sword are truly remarkable. It's a sight to behold." Hana nodded, her eyes fixed on Hongjoong's performance. Despite the troubles and challenges that had befallen their family, this display of skill and strength brought a sense of pride. The courtyard echoed with the clashing of swords, creating a symphony of martial prowess that filled the air. She watched as blocked and ducked every blow his opponent gave him. Sword fighting was a beautiful dance, a dance of steel and skill. Hongjoong's movements were fluid, and his opponent struggled to match his finesse. The crowd's cheers intensified as the spectacle continued. Hana couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for her brother's prowess.

The sun bathed the courtyard in a warm glow, casting long shadows as the combatants circled each other. Each strike was calculated, and every parry showcased Hongjoong's mastery of the sword. The princess found herself lost in the rhythmic flow of the fight, the clashing of steel creating a captivating melody. As the duel reached its climax, Hongjoong executed a series of swift maneuvers, disarming his opponent with a flourish. The crowd erupted into cheers, and Hana clapped along with them. She exchanged a proud glance with Wooyoung, both appreciating the artistry of the sword fight.

Sir Jaime, standing beside them, nodded in approval. "Your brother truly has the heart of a warrior. It's good to see the strength of House Kim on display." With the duel concluded, Hongjoong bowed to his opponent and acknowledged the cheering crowd. Looking in the groups direction, his eyes widened. Onlookers tried to grab his attention, but he paid them no mind. He dropped his sword and rushed towards them. Hongjoong's genuine excitement filled the air as he lifted Hana in a tight embrace. The princess, caught off guard by her brother's exuberance, couldn't help but laugh at his enthusiastic greeting.

"Get off of me," she teased, playfully pushing him back to get a better look at his face. Despite the sweat and grime on his training gear, the joy in Hongjoong's eyes shone brightly. His longer hair and sharper features since their last meeting spoke of the time that had passed.

"You've grown, little sister," Hongjoong remarked, holding her at arm's length and studying her face. "I can't believe how much time has passed since I last saw you." Hana grinned, a mix of amusement and affection in her eyes. 

"It has only been a year brother." Hongjoong chuckled. "It's good to be back, though. I missed this place, missed you." He ruffled her hair, earning a mock glare from Hana.

"I missed you too, you oaf," she replied, a warmth in her voice. The reunion brought a sense of familiarity and comfort.

"Do you have more training to do?" Hana asked. Hongjoong shook his head. "That was the last of it, I need to start getting ready for the feast tonight." Hongjoong greeted Wooyoung with a shake of his hand. 

"A feast? For what?" Hana asked, curious. Her and Hongjoong walked towards a shed, in it were hooks and tables to place weaponry and discarded clothing.  He began to remove his gloves and put away his sword. 

"For your arrival of course, father wants to celebrate his daughters return."  Hongjoong continued to stow away his training gear, glancing at Hana with a smile. "The whole court is abuzz with your return. It's been too quiet without you, little sister." Hana joined him in securing her weapons, her mind processing the idea of a celebration. 

"A feast in my honor? I thought we save those for significant victories or weddings." Hongjoong chuckled, "Well, your return is a significant victory for the court, and who knows, maybe it'll turn into a celebration for something more in the future." As they exited the shed, Wooyoung followed them, curious about the upcoming festivities. 

"A feast sounds like a splendid idea. I haven't had a proper celebration in a while." Hongjoong threw an arm around Hana's shoulders, guiding her towards the castle. "It's settled then. We'll have a feast, and you, little sister, will be the guest of honor."

Hana grinned, appreciating the warmth of her brother's presence. "As long as there's good food and lively music, I'm in." 

Curious of her fathers location, she asked her brother "Where is father now?" Hongjoong replied, "In the throne room, apparently there's news on the stepstones." This peaked Hana's interest. 

 "Any idea what it is?" Hongjoong shook his head. Hana nodded, "You go ahead, I would like to pay him a visit. Sir Jaime, please show Prince Wooyoung where his chambers will be." 

"As you wish." He replied. Hongjoong left a kiss to his sister cheek and walked off with the other two men, their conversation she could hear in the distance. As Hana made her way towards the throne room, her footsteps echoed through the grand halls of the Red Keep. The castle had an air of familiarity, yet she couldn't shake the feeling that something had changed in her absence. The throne room doors were large and imposing, guarded by members of the Kingsguard. They nodded respectfully as she approached, recognizing the princess. Pushing the heavy doors open, she entered the room.

Inside, her father sat on the Iron Throne, a place of power and authority. It towered over the courtiers present, valryian steel blades spread to the steps of the seat. The room was spacious, with high ceilings and the banners of House Kim adorning the walls. She hid behind the courtiers, not wanting to cause a scene. She heard them whisper amongst themselves, as she walked, one of the comments made her heart stop momentarily. 

"I think it has to do with Choi San." San? A slight smirk played her lips as she continued walking. Once she found a spot, loud footsteps could be heard walking towards the room. There he was, it was truly him. He walked past the crowd, hair parted to the side, features sharp, and a crown made of shells adorned his head. He had a dark blue tunic on, a shield of armor covered his back and chest, his belt held a piece of weaponry that one of his hands rested on. 

As he walked with confidence, so did she in secrecy, matching his steps approaching her father. As a warning he was close enough, a guard pointed his sword out towards him, but San kept moving until the blade touched his armor. San looked at the guard, plucked out the weapon, and dropped it at his feet. The guard sheathed his blade and picked up the piece. 

"You wear a crown?" The King asked. "Do you also call yourself King?" Whispers filled the room. San adjusted his stance. 

"Once we smashed the Triarchy, they named me King of the Narrow Sea." More whispers rose from the crowd as they watched the event play out. 

"But I know that there is only one true king your grace." San moved to kneel down on one knee, head bowed as he did. "My crown, and stepstones, are yours." He removed the crown from his head and held it out as an offering. The King shared a small smile and looked past him before looking at him again. 

"Well, where is your father, Lord Jungchul?" San tilted his head back up. "He sailed home, to Coralrift." King Kang-Dae clicked his tongue. 

"Who holds the stepstones?" San was quick to respond. "The tides, the crabs, and two thousand dead triarchy members staked to the sand to warn those who might follow." Small gasps could be heard, shocked at the gruesome telling. The King stepped down, approaching the man. He reached down to take the crown from San's hand and examined it before passing it to one of his guards. San watched him with careful eyes, cautious of his every move. 

"Rise." Kang-Dae commanded. He helped San to stand, and once he did, he clasped a hand on his shoulder. Claps resounded as a sign of approval and respect for San's actions. The courtiers, nobles, and members of the court recognized the significance of this moment. The King's gesture was not only an acknowledgment of San's accomplishments but also a show of trust and favor.

"Your bravery has served the realm well," King Kang-Dae declared, his voice carrying across the throne room. "The Stepstones are a crucial region, and your efforts have ensured the safety and security of our interests there." San bowed respectfully, humbled by the recognition. The courtiers continued to applaud, and some even offered approving nods. 

"Your loyalty to House Kim and your commitment to protecting the realm do not go unnoticed," the King continued. San looked up at the King, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Your Grace. I am honored by your trust."

"May you continue to serve House Kim with the same dedication and valor," the King replied, patting San's shoulder once more. The King, overlooking the room, spots his daughter, a smile plastered on her face and clapping diligently. 

"Yes, Yes. We thank the god's for this young man's brave actions. I would also like to thank them for bringing my daughter back home safely from her travels." As the King expressed his gratitude and acknowledged his daughter's return, the courtiers joined in the applause. The court was filled with a mix of formal acknowledgment and genuine joy at the reunion of father and daughter.

Hana, standing among the courtiers, smiled at her father. The bond between them had been strained in recent times, but the acknowledgment in front of the court served as a moment of connection. She felt a sense of reassurance that her presence was valued and recognized by her father, even amidst the complexities that surrounded their relationship. The King's words echoed through the throne room, and Hana curtsied in acknowledgment of the court's applause. The people of the court dispersed, until only a few remained. As she approached her father, she felt knots form in her stomach. San came closer into view, even from behind he was still captivating to her. 

"Ah, my daughter, a lovely surprise to see you in court." She smiled at him and accepted the hand he reached out to her before placing a kiss upon it. 

"it has been too long my dear," Hana let out a small laugh. "Yes, I suppose it has been." She finally turns to greet San. From far away, she could tell her had changed, but now, standing so close, she felt like she couldn't breath. His eyes were as striking as ever, sharp and feline like. His build had grown exponentially too, shoulder much broader and muscle prominent. San, turning to face Hana, met her gaze with a mixture of surprise and warmth. The courtly setting seemed to fade away for a moment as their eyes locked, the unspoken connection between them rekindled. He was dressed in armor, a testament to his newfound responsibilities and achievements.

"Princess Hana," San greeted her with a respectful bow, his voice carrying a deep, soothing resonance. "It is an honor to see you again after such a long time." The formalities of the court were still present, but beneath them, there lingered a familiarity that transcended titles and decorum. Hana nodded in acknowledgment, a soft smile playing on her lips.

"Lord San," she replied, her tone carrying a warmth that went beyond mere courtesy. "I hear tales of your valor and accomplishments. The stepstones must be thankful to have such a dedicated defender." San's gaze held a depth of emotions, and for a moment, it seemed as if they existed in their own world within the bustling court. The King, observing the interaction, offered a subtle nod. Sir Jaime, standing discreetly in the background, maintained a watchful eye on the proceedings.

"I appreciate your kind words, Princess," San replied, a genuine smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Much has transpired since we last met."

"Princess, you should start preparing yourself for tonight." As Sir Jaime redirected Hana's attention to the impending preparations for the evening feast, she couldn't help but feel a tinge of reluctance to part ways with the captivating gaze of Lord San. The exchange had been brief, yet it held layers of unspoken sentiments.

"Until tonight then, Lord San," Hana said with a gracious nod, masking the undercurrent of emotion that resonated in her voice. She turned gracefully, her gown swaying with each step, and followed Sir Jaime out of the throne room. San watched her departure, a mixture of admiration and longing in his eyes. The courtly affairs continued around him, but his thoughts lingered on the unexpected reunion with the princess. The echoes of their shared past and the uncharted future hung in the air, a subtle tension that promised more encounters to come.

[girlfriendsofthegalaxy]

tuesday again 2/28/2023

goodbye february!

listening

night beats by hex. @slothshark has done a much better writeup of the aural soundscape than me (partially deaf) ever could. it sounds like its cover art. it knocked my fuckin socks off. this thing is SO textured, it's like taking a nylon scrubber to the inside of my skull (in a very good way). the way the reverb and the slight feedback blend is just. mwah. also features a close cousin of the morricone WAH WAH WAH wail!

-

reading

raymond chandler's the big sleep. once again i trust that we are all adults who know that many genre works, including this one, are very much products of their time. however this one is exceptionally racist and homophobic for its time. chandler can't quite make up his mind how he feels about Jews.

it reads very much like a first novel, the plot and pacing unfold like a colt getting up. i like the solution of the book much more, but even though the movie's plot is a little less coherent it has more Vibes. another first novel problem is that it's a little embarrassed of itself-- this line dampens every cool line aferwards.

"Neat, huh?" Brody said. "Just kind of stand up a minute. Come forward just about two yards. You might grab a little air while you're doing that." His voice was the elaborately casual voice of the tough guy in pictures. Pictures have made them all like that.

which immediately dampens the following lines and every cool line thereafter in the book

"Tsk, tsk," I said, not moving at all. "Such a lot of guns around town and so few brains. You're the second guy I've met within hours who seems to think a gat in the hand means a world by the tail. Put it down and don't be silly, Joe."

a baffling choice the movie makes, which makes it far less coherent, is changing vivian's husband from the missing sean ryan to rutledge, Some Guy she's divorced who is never seen on screen or mentioned again. i'm not sure why this adaptational choice was made but probably a censor issue? maybe howard hawks thought marlowe would look bad if he went after a woman who was looking for her missing husband? in the movie marlowe already makes a pass at nearly every woman he meets except carmen, who is barely grown and frankly doesn't hold a fucking candle to her sister vivian.

how'd i find this: the big sleep was the first movie i watched this year and i have not been able to stop thinking about it for two months. i think i slightly prefer dashiell hammet's prose to chandler's, but chandler wrote some of my favorite short stories.

-

watching

witness for the prosecution (1957, dir. billy wilder)

this movie ended with a fascinating early piece of spoiler culture: “The management of this theater suggests that for the greater entertainment of your friends who have not yet seen the picture, you will not divulge to anyone the secret of the ending of Witness for the Prosecution.”

when i watch movies made by directors i already know i like, i have a good time! who would have thought!

another fucking scintillating Wilder movie to showcase some of the greatest character work ive ever seen. despite (maybe because of) the numerous twists, it’s one of the fairest mysteries ive ever seen. i don't think knowing the twist spoils the film, bc it's really know what happens but HOW it happens, but i find myself reluctant to discuss the ending at all.

how'd i find this: had kanopy credits to use up, thought this would be a good movie to knit to. partially right bc i got a fuck of a lot of rows done bc i was knitting faster and faster as it careened along. there was a cramp in my jaw from clenching my teeth so hard.

-

playing

still fuckin around and finding out in fallo/ut 4, still in beautiful postapoc maine.

the lighthouse at brooke's head fixed itself and now at the proper distance from the ground. did not go inside bc i was overencumbered by like five hundred pounds and wanted to go finish my house on longfellow's little islet.

hi valentine. the proportions are. not ideal and i probably should have built it facing the inner harbor for maximum hurricane resistance. it is not the most efficient house i have ever built, bc it only has three bedrooms. however! i imagine it is the main hub for supplies coming in and out of my far harbor settlements/a meeting place for the islanders. hence the enormous table and extra bar stools behind the counter. this first one is looking back toward the front door.

i guess ppl could crash on the trio of couches if they needed to. when you walk into the ground floor, you pass a narrow but deep kitchen, and a little pantry and separate full bath that split off the main living/dining bookcase area like so.

the upstairs has one Very large bedroom for a couple, two smaller bedrooms with armor and gun workbenches, and another full bath. plus a little seating area jammed into the spot behind the stairs and a continuation up the stairs of the "weapons i don't want to sell but don't want to carry around" wall. this house is too bright, doesn't have enough stuff on the walls/enough chairs everywhere to be a real new england house, plus the stairs are very much up to code. but i do like it.

my fucking KINGDOM for washers and dryers as buildable objects in the base game. also my fucking KINGDOM for a bay window as a buildable object in the base game.

-

making

will not have my femslash feb piece ready by tonight :(

in other making news, i would rec these white bean/kale/rice bowls. surprisingly easy to make bc all you have to do is make rice and wilt some kale and then assemble a bunch of stuff. i did not add walnuts bc i do not like them, i did not add feta bc the grocery budget is a little tight this month, and i did not make the viniagrette from scratch bc i had a perfectly good one in the fridge. i did not think this was going to be filling and resigned myself to huge portions, but this is surprisingly filling i guess bc beans and rice are a complete protein? my primary care doc will love this for me bc 1) vegetarian and 2) v heart healthy. i would definitely up the rice to two or even two and a half cups, bc i assembled four bowls at once for lunch/dunner and they were a little scant on the rice. luckily i had a fuckoff huge bunch of kale to make up for it.

will be making it again bc it requires shockingly little prep and (once you've bought the giant jar of sun dried tomatoes) pretty cheap.

three! and a fifth! blanket! repeats!!!

[dominickeating-source]

Starburst Issue 320 (2005)

THE DOMINIC PRINCIPLE

Steven Eramo finds Star Trek Enterprise's Dominic Keating excited yet strangely uncomfortable- about the shows future.

We can put a man on the moon, but we can't make a spacesuit that's comfortable for him to wear. Sadly, things don't get any better 150 years from now as Dominic Keating, who plays Star Trek Enterprise's Lt. Malcolm Reed, can attest to. We recently finished shooting a story arc where Connor Trinneer [Commander Charles Trip Tucker III] and I were wearing the EV [environmental] suits for three episodes, recalls the actor. Jeez, those things just crucify you. It hurts so bad you have to laugh or you'll cry. 

We probably worked five or six days in those suits over a two-and-a-half week period. All I can say is thank God it was with Connor. He has the patience of Job, and I don't. I was the last in line when they were handing out the patience, and I walked off. I was too impatient, chuckles Keating. Seriously, I love working with Connor. He and I always have a good time on-set together and I've really made a wonderful friend in him on this show.

EV suits aside, these three episodes [Babel One, United and The Aenar] are great. For our bit, Connor's and my character are transported to a drone ship, and sufficed to say they have to figure out who's running the show. It's a fun ride aboard the drone vessel, with a lot of action and a nice partnership between Trip and Reed.

The aforementioned trilogy, which features appearances by the Tellarites, Andorians and Vulcans, is just one of several mini-story arcs this fourth season on Enterprise. At the end of last year, Captain Jonathan Archer (Scott Bakula) and the Enterprise NX-01 crew were transported back into Earth's past after saving Humankind from being destroyed by the Xindi. Having since made it back to their own time during this seasons two-part opener Storm Front, our heroes are still going where no one has gone before. However, their course is now being charted by a new showrunner, Enterprise head writer/executive producer Manny Coto.

This season of Enterprise is unfolding rather beautifully, and I would lay that largely at Manny's feet, says Keating. A big part of that probably has to do with the fact that he grew up watching the original Star Trek and is himself a big fan. Manny has hired some new writers for the show who share his vision as well as understanding of Star Trek folklore, and together they've kept in the real spirit of Sci-Fi.

Manny has been very smart with his approach to the storytelling and, fingers crossed, this fresh new blood in the configuration of the show might just be its saving grace. I say that not wishing to do any disservice to Brannon Braga [series co-creator/executive producer]. He is still heavily involved in the production of the show. Manny just took over the day-to-day running of things.

As ship's tactical/security officer, Lt. Malcolm Reed received plenty of training as a Starfleet officer prior to being assigned to Enterprise. Over the past three-and-a-half years, his skills have been further sharpened during encounters with various hostile aliens. Keating feels that his tour of duty on the show has been a positive learning experience as well.

It's funny, I was saying to someone just recently that I've grown up on this series, finally, as an actor, he muses. Now I can go to a set anywhere in the world and know exactly what's going on at all times, whereas before I couldn't do that. All the guest-spots and movie roles I'd done previously were, quite honestly, too few and far between. However, almost four years of filming into Enterprise, I much better comprehend the inner workings and rhythms of a film set.

I come from a stage background and I think I have a natural understanding of working in the theatre. Some actors may feel that way about working in front of a camera, but not me. I had to learn it, and believe me I've learnt a lot. That, in turn, has given me greater confidence in myself as well as my abilities and helped me grow more into my part on the show. Malcolm Reed and Dominic have met in the middle if you will, and that feels good.

Just prior to this interview (early December 2004), Keating had been on vacation for a week and was getting ready to head back to work on Enterprise. From what I've been told, Malcolm is featured quite heavily in the next episode we're shooting, so that should be fun, says the actor. It's been an odd year because I didn't have much to do in the first 10 or 11 episodes, but things sort of heated up a little bit in the last two or three. I don't mind, though. Our writers and producers have given me quite a few meaty bits over the past three seasons, so it's not as if I'm chomping at the bit to show them what I can do.

When asked to name his favourite Malcolm moment so far this season, the actor is quick to reply. In one of the episodes I spoke about earlier with Trip and Malcolm on the drone ship, there's a scene where Malcolm rescues the two of them by making a bomb out of his phase pistol. There's a huge explosion and as they're running down this corridor Trip turns to Malcolm and says, 'You did all that with one phase pistol? Malcolm says to Trip, You build things, commander. Well, I blow them up'.

I thought that was a fantastic line. I hadn't had one like it since the pilot where Archer is holding a phase pistol and Malcolm tells him, 'Stun and kill; it'd be best not to confuse the settings, captain'. It's obvious from talking with Keating that he enjoys not only being an actor, but also working on Enterprise. While some might take a regular TV gig for granted, he knows better. "This is an absolute blessing", says the actor. "Yes, sometimes it can get a bit tedious, especially when you're sitting for hours on the bridge with only three things to say, but, you know what, I like it. I'd be very sad if this was our last year. However, the reactions have been pretty encouraging, so here's hoping, things might just work out".

Star Power

As in previous seasons, Star Trek Enterprise has managed to attract an impressive and memorable array of guest-stars this year. "I only had one or two scenes with him, but it was still a pleasure working with Brent Spiner [Dr. Arik Soong] in the Augments story arc," says Keating. "I found him to be a very smart and funny man who enjoys being around people".

"I thought Abby Brammell [Persis] and the Scottish actor, Alec Newman [Malik], did an amazing job as the two lead Augments. Then there's Paul Wight [a.k.a. Big Show], who played the big green Orion in Borderland. The guy is the size of a mountain. He lifted up Jolene Blalock [Commander T'Pol] with no effort at all", jokes the actor.

Joanna Cassidy was inspired casting as T'Pol's mother T�Les, and it's always a thrill to welcome back Gary Graham [Vulcan Ambassador Soval] to the set. Gary is such a gifted actor and he's had a nice run so far on Enterprise this season. Our writers really gave him some good material to work with in the Vulcan story arc.

Wicked Fun

We may know him now as the clean-cut and conscientious Lt. Malcolm Reed on Enterprise, but a few years back, Keating was getting up to no good as the devilish Mallos in the short lived fantasy TV series The Immortal starring Lorenzo Lamas. "They had initially earmarked me for the part of Lorenzos [Raphael? Rafe Cain] sidekick, who, I think, was originally called Joe", says Keating. However, the producers then decided that they wanted the show to appeal to a younger and broader audience so they hired Steve Braun to play Joe, who was ultimately renamed Goodwin.

"As for me, they felt I could play the lead demon and Lorenzo's main onscreen nemesis, Mallos. He was a neat character, wasn't he? You had the devilishness, sheer camp and pure evil all wrapped up in one. I just loved the audacity of Mallos, and the fact that he was also written with a terrific sense of humour. On top of all that, he drove flash cars, wore expensive suits, and had a beautiful woman [Kira Clavell] on his arm. What more could you ask for in a job? I certainly had a good time working on the show".

Source: www.dominickeating.com

[novelmonger]

As this October comes to a close, I wanted to report briefly on the horror games I've played this Spooky Month:

Dead Secret - Adventure game that has "made for VR" written all over it (though I did not play it in VR), where you play as an up-and-coming reporter investigating an old man's mysterious death. The puzzles were pretty easy, and it was fairly simple to get all the different endings, but the story was kind of confusing and littered with plot holes. There were some scares that were actually quite effective, but that actually only causes more problems, because when you finally piece together the solution to the mystery, there isn't really anything supernatural going on...so why do you keep on seeing things that appear and disappear, the TV turning on, doors opening of their own accord, etc.? Also, I got stuck in the first five minutes because they never actually presented the controls to the player, lol ^^'

Stasis - Isometric adventure game where you play as a man who wakes up from cryosleep in a broken-down spaceship, with no idea how you got there or where your family is that you were traveling with. So you have to venture through this creepy, dilapidated spaceship, uncovering the horrific experiments that were going on here, based on a spaceship to avoid interstellar legal constraints. There ended up being a lot more gore and just...grossness than I was expecting, and I wasn't a huge fan of that :/ After a certain point, it really started to feel like they were just shoving as much shocking material into the game as they could, when a lighter touch might have been more effective. It also suffers from the usual adventure game issue of I Have No Idea What The Heck To Do With This Random Item I Picked Up So I Guess I'll Just Click On Everything Until Something Happens, and I had to rely on a walkthrough to get through it all in a timely fashion. But the unfolding story was enough to hold my interest through the whole thing. I found the ending disappointing and rather depressing, though, so I don't think I'll be playing the sequel. But kudos to the very small South African company that developed the game!

Shady Part of Me - Definitely my favorite of this year's selection! I didn't want to stop playing! 8D It's hardly even a horror game, though; it just deals with rather dark (haha) subject matter and has a somewhat creepy aesthetic, particularly in the beginning where the setting looks like some sort of hospital. But really, it's just a puzzle platformer where you manipulate light and shadow to get a girl and her shadow through a bunch of levels that are an abstract depiction of her mental illness. I loved the look and feel of the game, and some of the puzzles really stumped me. But this game was 100% my cup of tea. The only downside to it was that for some reason, the very very end kept on crashing the game, so ultimately I had to just watch the last cutscene on YouTube :/

Doki Doki Literature Club - I decided to round things off this year with a visual novel. I don't want to say too much, because it's best going in as blind as you can. (If anyone reading this is interested in playing it - it's free on Steam - I'd be happy to give non-spoilery trigger/content warnings!) All I'll say is that it takes the stereotypical high school harem visual novel and does things I've never seen a visual novel do before. If you can handle some creepy/disturbing content, it's well worth your time just for the experience, I think!

[honorhearted]

Ben watched the scene unfold with a smile, an unmistakable joy brewing within at being able to share in his collection -- in being able to bequeath something to Jeffrey that he, himself had loved and enjoyed.

When the boy turned his eyes to him, Ben's smile widened. "You may take anything you wish," he promised. "I've read every single book in this pile, and in some cases, have even re-read them, so please: take whatever speaks to you."

Although Jeffrey still appeared a little uncertain, his gaze finally lit up and he turned back to the books, running his fingers over each cover before he finally swooped one up with an exclamation. "This one!" he said. "I like the name."

"Robinson Crusoe?" Ben asked, leaning over his shoulder. "A wonderful choice! And it just so happens to be one of my re-reads." Eager, he explained, "It's believed that the story might be inspired by Alexander Selkirk, a Scottish sailor, who at his very own request asked to be left behind on an uninhabited island, and just because he and the captain got into an argument. He remained on that island for five years."

"Wow!" Jeffrey said, looking down at the book in amazement. "I wonder how he survived all that?"

With a fond nudge, Ben encouraged, "Go ahead and read, and I'm sure you can glean an idea or two." Glancing toward Francesca, he teased, "Just don't go getting any ideas. I'd rather not be dropped off onto an uninhabited island, if it's all the same to you."

"What about a habited one?" Jeffrey asked.

"I suppose Setauket counts," Ben agreed, smiling, "but just barely."

"I'm going to New York City," the boy brightly said. "Are you going to stay there, too?"

"Not for long -- but we'll be close by, seeing how Setauket is a small hamlet in Long Island." Again he smiled toward Francesca. "My wife has never been to the colonies before, so I think she's a little nervous."

"Me, too!" Jeffrey said. Looking up at her, he promised, "You'll be okay. My mama says I'm big enough to protect the womenfolk."

The boy’s infectious delight at the thought of gaining a new story made Francesca wish that she could have shown him her library back home, for she was certain that he would adore browsing the titles – It had always been a wonderful past time for her as a child, picking out a new book and setting up a reading nook on her window seat, and she hoped that Jeffrey had similar opportunities at his own home.

"Let’s have a look,” Francesca replied, laying out each title side by side. There were poems and novels, Shakespeare and Virgil, books that she knew dearly and ones she had never heard of. “I am not certain that I have a favourite book ever, just lots of ones that I like. And I have read a few of these, yes.”

She picked up a book of poetry, opening it in her palms and skimming across the words with deliberate gentleness – Reading other people’s books always felt strange to her, as if she were walking through their childhood home or dressing in their clothing. Jeffrey seemed to follow her lead, gingerly picking up a book of sonnets and opening it with the same tenderness, furrowing his brows as he read the words with a quiet murmur.

Glancing up at Ben, Francesca offered him a soft smile, Jeffrey’s hushed reading amidst the silence causing her eyes to shine with immense fondness. “Do you know which one that you want?” she asked him, turning her attentions back to the boy.

Jeffrey looked up at her, hesitant. Shutting the book, he put it back on the table and looked up at Ben expectantly. “Which one am I allowed?” he asked, his gaze flitting between him and the array of books on display.

[monstersinthecosmos]

I didn't follow any of the pre-release promotional materials; do you have a link to the showrunner(s) stating/implying that queerness is merely "subtextual" in the absence of literal sex? (Apologies if you've shared it before and I just wasn't paying attention.) Also, thank you for your prolific and thorough critiques. I'm a more casual book fan and was tentatively excited to see the show forge a new narrative path while still guided by the same lifeblood, if you will. But at this point, hmmmmmm

I don't recall him commenting on it being about literal sex, THAT WAS ME EDITORIALZING LMAO.

I haven't been able to stomach the entire SDCC panel but I know they talked about it in there, I kinda peeked around for a transcript but didn't find one. ANYONE FEEL FREE TO SHARE THE DIRECT QUOTES please I don't have the strength. There's a summary article here, though, which touches on the convo a little:

(Don't even ask me to start unpacking the Fiona Apple comment dude what?)

This article also talks about the SDCC panel and doesn't directly quote him but it sums up:

There's just been article after articleeeeee of people who didn't read the books or just watched the film or whatever and keep going WOWIE IT'S NOT SUBTEXT, GREAT JOB, when like ? It was never subtext lol. And that's not entirely the show's fault, how mainstream perceives it, but they've been running with that and taking credit for it.

Like there's just been tons of headlines and praise like this -

I think the show & RJ have also been pretty blurry with how often they claim they're not a remake of the movie and yet constantly make digs at the movie and even reference it often on the show itself. So I think sometimes they're commenting on the movie when they forget they've already told us they're not remaking the movie. =P

There's also this quote (I didn't screenshot bc there's an ad in the middle LOL!) but:

"It’s aggressive subtext in the first book, but by the time you read books eight and nine, it was the love affair of the century. Without spoiling too much, subtext becomes text in our show."

(Let's not point out that books 8 & 9 are ... *checks notes* Blood & Gold and Blackwood Farm. Okaaaaaay Rolin. 😪)

Also sorry by love affair of the century do you mean Lestat goes around and has adventures and uses everyone while Louis stays safely tucked away at Armand's house until he's needed, or? Sorry lmfao I'm so fucking. dghadgkjs.

That interview is full of nonsense that will make you want to scream if you're feeling brave.

Anyway I feel like, I've been obsessively watching the production unfold for the past year and I kept getting so many red flags like there's been so many odd comments and little sexist quips, the complete misunderstanding (or lack of fucks) about what Claudia is supposed to mean in the story, etc. I just keep getting aggressive CISHET MAN vibes from this team and the lens they read VC through.

And yknow what, fair whatever I guess, we all read different versions of the same book and they're the ones that got to make it. But idk I like VC for the dark elegant spooky existential angst, I didn't need it to be gritty and open up with shit jokes. And five episodes in I didn't need it to use outdated, dangerous rape tropes and I also don't need it to oversell the domestic abuse. (Hint: Lestat was already abusive as fuck from the moment we met him, don't oversell!)

It's an okay show lmao. It's not recognizable as VC at all except that it recycles the names. None of the characters have been accurate so far. Even Lestat, where Sam Reid is doing so many fun things with his delivery and mannerisms that almost seem like Lestat, is just so fucking OOC and a caricature and just really lacks the depth and nuance and sensitivity of who he is in the books.

If you can turn your brain off and not look at it as VC there's some fun moments, but it's also full of continuity errors and just plot holes and bad writing when you look too close, so don't try to analyze it too hard or you'll have a bad time lol. Even the stuff that's really interesting and that they get right, they tend to lose interest in and drop, or they mix it into so much vampire soap opera shenanigans that it's hard to walk away knowing what the episode is actually about. It's just. Woof!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[wolfpants]

sunday fic list

Okay, so, I've had some more of these:

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Let’s spread the self-love 💖

But I've done this already (here, if you're curious), so instead I thought I'd shout about 5 favourite fics that bring me joy!

And then I got thinking: I can make this a Sunday thing. Share five fics I love (old favourites and new discoveries alike) with the community I love. It's nearly the end of March (!what!) and one of my challenges for 2022 was to share more recs. Which I've been woeful at so far! A calendared slot, once per week, is just the ticket for this forgetful lil wolf.

So, without further ado...

Aching With Want (E, Drarry, 2k words) by @nv-md

Draco loves Harry, and would do anything to make him happy. When the cold wakes Draco in the middle of the night, he gives Harry everything he wants...everything he's too scared to ask for.

A visceral exploration of vulnerability. Harry and Draco truly give everything that they are to each other in this fic, and it is scorching and truly cathartic. Read the tags on this one for sure, but this fic promises the most heart-wrenching variety of hot smut.

The Gladdest Thing Under the Sun (E, Neville/Charlie with background Drarry, 1.7k words) by @tackytigerfic

"Neville and Charlie had been friends for long enough that he knew exactly how Charlie fought, and how he fucked. He knew he could have taken Charlie home if he wanted to - he had seen enough of Charlie’s conquests to know that he was Charlie’s type, and he had drunk and danced and laughed with Charlie enough to feel the flare and heat of his interest."

Or: Neville wants Charlie for good, not just for the night.

How is it that Tacky manages to include so much rich history in a relatively short wordcount? I am astounded. Once again, I am bowled over by this talent. This is a gentle, careful build: like cultivating a garden, Neville takes care of his yearning and plays it cool while Charlie plays it hot. The result? Gorgeous, romantic, and blindingly sexy.

Human (E, Drarry, 27.6k words) by @ghaniblue

(Official Summary) Harry isn't dealing well with being bitten and turned into a werewolf. Draco isn't dealing well with Harry packing up and leaving like a thief in the night. Things come to a head in a forest cabin in the German Ore Mountains.

(Unofficial Summary) An annoying posh wanker is stuck in a forest cabin for a month with the most frustrating, taciturn prat on the planet. The prat is a werewolf who ran away from home. The wanker desperately wants to make Little Red Riding Hood jokes. They are in love.

I devoured this in just a few nights. Jesus Christ, where do I even start?! There's pining, there's desire, there's a hermit-y Harry deep in the forest in Germany, there's Draco in nailpolish! And it's all so stunningly written. The love and longing between them is so instinctive. I absolutely loved everything about this fic and I am sure it will be read time and time again.

We Never Went to Church (M, Wolfstar, Jily, and Dorlene, currently a WIP) by @wrapped-up

It’s been ten years since Regulus Black opted out. Disappeared from all of their lives entirely. Nobody has seen nor heard from him since. But when Remus Lupin accepts a new position in a firm he knows little about, he is forced to confront the ghosts of the past which will have far-reaching consequences for them all.

Everyone and their kitchen sink knows how much I love @wrapped-up's work: it's consistently clever, witty, authentic, relatable, written with tremendous care. I always feel in very good hands whenever I slip into these fics, and this current work in progress is no exception: it's funny, heartbreaking, addictive stuff, and it's a real treat watching the story unfold. I can't wait for more. Also, what the heck happened to Regulus?!

Sourdough (M, Drarry, 17.3k) by @academicdisasterfic

Draco writes romance novels and doesn't leave his apartment much. Harry bakes bread and sells it to Draco. Draco is quite weird. Harry might like that.

Sourdough is the ultimate comfort read. It's warm, gentle, romantic. It treats its gorgeous cast of characters with so much tenderness and care. Rooney's Draco is an absolute joy to read, and his Harry? His Harry? Warmth incarnate. Patience, strength, curiosity; he is the Harry of my dreams. The dialogue is so natural, so real, that I feel like I'm there with them. And the culmination of their careful getting together is just so expertly done.

Well, that's it for this Sunday! More next week! x

[wen-kexing-apologist]

I cannot help but be excited for TLoVM. I started watching Critical Role more than halfway through Campaign One. I binged roughly 80 episodes in the month I was home for winter break, because I fell in love with it. I didn't expect how much it would give me.

I've been playing D&D for four years now, and everyone I'm playing with I met through the Critical Role Fan Club page on Facebook. These people are my friends, and we've known each other for four years because of Critical Role. I have my fucking D&D character tattooed on my body because I met some people who all also liked Critical Role.

My sophomore year of undergrad, I went through a fairly traumatizing experience, and as much as I tried to pretend, in the first few months after everything had happened, that I was okay, the truth is I wasn't, and it took me a long time to acknowledge that. My D&D character was what I used to proactively parse through my own emotions. The experiences she had had in her backstory, and the intersection of my own trauma, and my own grief and pain, intersected at the perfect time for me to be able to abstract all of the things I couldn't voice, and couldn't name, and didn't want to be feeling in my own life, into something, someone else. And if I hadn't had Critical Role I would have never had that opportunity.

I remember how a lot of fans reacted to Keyleth, and Marisha especially, I remember that hatred of Marisha was so bad the cast made jokes about it, having a voicemail that gave specific locations for where Marisha hate mail could go. And that has always made me angry because Keyleth is one of the most important characters I have ever had the privilege to observe. I used Kiki as a conduit for the feelings I was having. She was an inspiration/goal for me, someone to look up to, someone to strive to be. Someone who had suffered hardship and was still adamant on doing good for other people. Someone who needed to grow into her confidence.

Before I got to undergrad, I felt pretty confident in myself and my abilities, but that was all obliterated in an instant. College made me feel dumb, made me exhausted, and burnt out, and so unbelievably alone at times. I didn't feel I had the support of a lot of professors, and my perception of the world was that everyone I went to school with was better, smarter, and more talented than I was. I went so quickly, from having faith in myself, to doubting every little thought, every decision that I made. Keyleth started her journey as more timid, and unsure of herself, and to see Kiki grow into a more confident person, a more confident leader; seeing her relationship to Vax unfold. To watch them together, to see how they navigated topics of grief and anger for the lives they could have had, the lives they were going to lose, it was something I desperately needed in order to better understand myself. She got me through a lot, the Voice of the Tempest, and when I finally graduated, I placed the words I Have Passed through Fire on my graduation cap. It's been a minute since then, I'm in graduate school, I love my new university, I am confident in myself and my abilities, I don't often think about the things I needed help to get through anymore, but the admiration, and the appreciation I have doesn't feel like it will fade.

There are plenty of shows that I love, that I dote on, that I obsess over, there are plenty of episodes of things I have watched more times than I can count because I love them and they make me happy. But nothing, nothing, has had a vice grip on me as tight as Campaign One of Critical Role.

I have watched it grow into the company it is now, which is still a little strange and unexpected, but I am so so happy that more people will have the chance to be introduced to the story that has meant so much to me over the last...five-ish years that I have known it. If you decided to read this whole semi-emotional rant, sorry!

To those who have watched everything that CR has ever made, congratulations on finally getting to see some beloved characters on screen, if the internet in the past few days has been any indication, I'm sure you're just as excited at I am.

If you haven't seen Critical Role before and you are just getting to know this world and these characters through The Legend of Vox Machina. WELCOME! We are so excited to have you, and what a wonderful treat it is, to get to experience this story for the very first time.

[wcvensouls]

this group of friends had always been a very open one, willing to welcome anyone in as long as they matched their energies — which jinhae was very much doing at that moment, as it was obvious by the way he quickly seemed to fit in. seunghyun shouldn't be surprised with this outcome, yet he still found himself wondering how exactly they ended up here. truly, what were the odds that they would end up meeting twice on the same day? however, as unexpected as it all was, deep down he didn't actually mind or hate it — but if anyone asked him that, seunghyun would promptly deny it. the world was just really too small or a place sometimes.

" i don't think most people would agree with that. " he responded, eyebrows raising slightly. however, when seunghyun felt the hand on his hair, his expression shifted to one of surprise as he became speechless for a moment — that is until he heard his friends giggling over it around him, which then made him immediately turn his head around in slight embarrassment. at least the initiative to clink glasses and bottles together was a distraction from that little moment, and seunghyun leaned over to grab a beer for himself before leaning back again. his gaze met jinhae's puppy eyes for a moment, but he couldn't hold it for long, still feeling a bit flustered as he gently hit his drink against the others and mumbled under his breath. " cheers. "

oh, he really is a charmer. look at our little seunghyunnie getting all shy~ joohyuk didn't miss his chance to pitch in, laughing as he watched this whole scene unfold before his eyes. " more fun for who? only for these bitches. " seunghyun couldn't help retorting. definitely not for him, who just wanted to bury his head into the ground. who needed enemies with friends like this?

with the attention now on soobin, the ice skater was quick to show him a bright smile. embarrassing stories? oh, i've got plenty of those! see, i've known him since we were like five years old, i could tell you sooo much, we might need all night. soobin giggled, his words making seunghyun look at the other with brows furrowed. " yah, don't forget i know shit about you too — don't you dare, lee soobin! " however, the other didn't seem bothered by that threat, a devilish look on his eyes as he leaned over and closer to jinhae. oh, you can tell him anything you want, yoo seunghyun, but i'm not the one the pretty boy wants to hear about~

��         what he thought would be a boring, uneventful night is slowly turning out to be a great one. not only did he get to meet amazing people and run into one of his closest childhood friends, but he was able to hang out with the one person who had been on his mind since that morning. jinhae couldn't really gauge how seunghyun felt towards him just yet though, as much as he was giving him the cold shoulder, it wasn't as if he was completely rejecting him, so he decides then to stick around and see how this would all play out. besides, he was having too much fun hanging around this group of people.

" you know sometimes, committing arson is okay once in a while if they deserve it, seunghyun ah. " he pats the other's head, stroking through his pink locks rather affectionately and chuckling. now that he's settled in between him and soobin, he makes himself comfortable, grabbing one of the beer bottles from the table in front of him and taking a big swig from it, suddenly feeling parched. " oh, cheers ! " as if he had been a part of the friend group for a while, he initiates the cheers among all of them, clinking his bottles with everyone's before turning to seunghyun, " cheers to you too, mr. lifeguard. " he looks up at him almost with puppy dog eyes, waiting for the other to return the gesture.

" will he really ? mmm, i don't have a lot of patience, but for this one ? i'm willing to wait until he warms up. " he nudges seunghyun with his elbow, " and i know, i know you're right here. but it's more fun for me to ask your friends. " he says in a sing-song type of tone, teasing the pink-haired male, " but, you'll warm up to me eventually, right ? " the soccer player pouts upon asking the question. " now, would anyone like to give me fun stories about seunghyun ? soobin ssi, how about you ? any fun anecdotes about him that i should know about ? " now that he's established some camaraderie with the other, jinhae turns his head to the individual on his other side, waiting for any fun stories that should come about.