#watching the finale & if any of those 3 win tbh they deserve it they’re all really incredible 😭

[rockoblanco]

dang S8 of Drag Race is just an amazing season of television 😭

[heretherebedork]

I am here to hurt myself by watching WBL2. I know it ends in a reward but the beginning is nothing but agony and why I haven't watched it before. I am already in pain just from watching any tiny amount of pain of these boys.

lol I am literally refering to this as my day of atonement.

... I did make a very nice Rosh Hashanah post but that doesn't make me particularly religious, tbh. Cultural Judaism, yo.

Also, pain. Hi pain.

Ugh, I avoided this pain for so long. Now I'm here for it. One post. I'm only making this one post. @absolutebl I'm doing it! I know how much you love this, though.

Oh, fuck it, if I'm trying to limit all my rambling to one post I might as well read more it. I ramble so much.

Ep 1:

Oh look pain. Pain. And more pain. Yup. Yup. I hate this kind of plot even if I know it resolves well. At least it's not cheating but STILL hi dying. Shu Yi is a darling boy who deserved better than five years of nothing for any reason and Gao Shi De should have been better than that. Even knowing it ends well doesn't make this easier. dgkldf GODDAMN IT SELF. Just watch the show and stop being a baby about emotional pain.

Awww, the matching ties! I've seen that post a dozen times and love it every time and it's good to see.

The fucking way Gao Shi De just tries to walk back into his life without a second word or hesitation or thought makes me SO DAMN TWITCHY. Poor Shu Yi. Also, Gao Shi De deserves every punch and slap and uuughhh this show was designed to hurt me. I HATE relationships falling apart. Absolutely my least favorite trope/plot point of practically all time.I hate it I hate iiiit I hate it so muuuuuch.

I mean, damn, the acting here is amazing beyond words, obviously. But that just makes it hurt more. Especially Shu Yi's pain that he's put behind so much anger and work just to keep himself functional and it's damn gorgeous DAMNit.

Ep 2:

Darling Shu Yi deserved so much better. Even though Gao Shi De wasn't cheating on him, he deserved better than the silence and disappearance and he deserves the goddamn world. Ugh literally like a minute into the episode and already there is so much pain. I know they end up happy but I almost want to just tell Shu Yi to tell Gao Shi De to fuck off forever.

Nope, Gao Shi De, you deserve the pain. Shu Yi does't, you do, your upset doesn't get me upset. Shu Yi's pain is the only one I regret in this show. But, seriously, doing all this in front of the whole company is such a bastard move in his part honestly. Poor Shu Yi, seriously.

I do love my tiny obviously favorite character, though, and his tiny inability to sit and his tiny double hands for everything and I adore him beyond measure.

Ugh, Shu Yi choosing to fake the return of trust and friendship and love and I am proud of him for doing that and no, I don't care, Gao Shi De deserves it. I mean, it's not a good or healthy choice but, you know what, I'm okay with that.

But seriously. Poor Shu Yi. Has to deal with being ghosted and then Gao Shi De's return and then an extremely drunk ex crying on him when he's just trying to go to work... at midnight, okay, maybe not healthy either.

Ep 3:

Oh, Gao Shi De. You're an idiot. I mean that... only with a tiny bit of affection and mostly with me rolling my eyes. Making a promise to his dad wasn't bright of you. I mean, seriously, 5 years without contacting him, telling him what happened and on the condition that Shu Yi doesn't try to move on in five years of being completely ghosted. That's just dumb to an astonishingly level of dumb.

Ugh, poor Shu Yi. Your dad and your ex are both idiots and they deserve to get away from you just like you want. Seriously. You poor young man. You deserved so much better from the people you love.

But seriously fuck Gao Shi De and Shu Yi's dad. You're both idiots who don't deserve him. Especially his dad. But also especially Gao Shi De. Seriously. This is why we talk to people, damnit. Poor Shu Yi.

Why, yes, that's my main take away from this show. Shu Yi deserved so much better. Gao Shi De's need to constantly solve everything by himself is the biggest problem in the show, oy vey.

OF COURSE he wants to go back to that time. He was loved and loved and trusted you and happy and comfortable and who wouldn't want to go back to that?

Yu Zhen Xuan is my darling, obviously, and Pei Shou Yi's wanting to take care of him but also to stay away from him for his own sake. Oh, boys.

Ep 4:

I know they get better at some point. I really do. Shu Yi is still breaking my heart, though. I just want to see the poor darling smile and not in a flashback.

Oh, Shu Yi. You deserve the world, seriously. I mean, I'm glad you've managed to come back around to trying to believe in Gao Shi De. I really am. But man he doesn't deserve it. But also ugh, this embrace, utterly fantastic. Darling Shu Yi is finally smiling!

And poor Yu Zhen Xuan trying to ask about Pei Shou Yi so deseperately and being denied everything... ugh, I love him so much. But mostly just Yu Zhen Xuan wanting that connection so badly but always, again and again, denied and I just want to comfort him so badly. Yes, he's coming to you but, I mean, what is friendship but going to other people for comfort? Awww, the two ramens. The BABY.

But also darling Shu Yi is finally smiling and Gao Shi De does bring him comfort and love and they're genuinely good to and for each other, at least, once they're together. Now they just need to actually talk to each other about what happened.

The simultaneous "DAD" was gorgeous. Okay, that was really good.

Ep 5:

Ah, my long awaited darling boy's backstory that I know and love. The tiny panic and fear and the way he jumps and fights back at the tiniest thing... I love this feral teenager SO MUCH and then he grows up into a CTO for a major company and it's even better.

Plus, Pei Shou Yi looking for him after telling him not to come back because the mug got returned? Ugh, heartbreaking but in like a sad, small kind of way.

And the darling CEOs teasing each other in front of their employees while also in suits and being uplifting and good at supporting them? A+ how does one go about getting bosses like that? Also, how Shu Yi looks at Gao Shi De when he's being a good boss? Also A+.

Okay, yes, they're adorable and tiny and the piggyback ride while also in suits and looking fine is simple the best of the best and Gao Shi De taking care of Shu Yi while also confronting his father is frankly amazing. Oh, darling boys.

Gao Shi De, he already admitted that he did this entirely to trick you and Shu Yi is perfectly willing to take a stand against his father. Stop trying to win him over. Let Shu Yi handle his family. His dad's an idiot and he's not gonna listen to you.

Ep 6:

More backstory for my darling feral teenager and the doctor who took care of him at his lowest. I love them both so much. I wish they'd gotten more of a story but I'm not entirely sure I want a third season about them either.

Portable boyfriend! Well! Portable boy... friend...

Also, Shu Yi and Gao Shi De, you have no right to talk about them not communicating, seriously boys, love you to death but seriously communication... actually, honestly, Shu Yi is great at communication. He can criticize them. Gao Shi De has no right.

Pei Shou Yi, seriously, you say these things about not having any emotion but you also admit that you knew he evoked a response from you. You definitely remembered and had feelings about him when you were separated. I mean, you even saved the ramen that was his favorite. You looked for him. I know it's scary but that's okay.

Shu Yi is just so adorable about meeting the in-laws and being all awkward and adorable and it's beyond cute and then the talk about his dad and family and they're just adorable and domestic and sweet and how dare they.

Literally, Shu Yi is the best person in the world and the two people who love him most can learn a lot from him.

Ugh, Yu Zhen Xuan is my baby and I love him so much and he's just doing his best to be his best and he wants to love and be loved but he's trying so hard and I love him so much. He's just such a darling and he also deserves the world and to be loved just as he loves.

And we had to have another pool kiss, of course, what darlings.

Pei Shou Yei: I don't experience emotions... except the ones involved in protect Yu Zhen Xuan because those aren't emotions, those are just natural urges and don't count.

Awww, proposals are always adorable and sweet.

I did it! I've finally watched the whole thing, between dramacool and dailymotion I've managed to watch this show. Yay for me!

[redxblueihateloveyou]

Hey!! 👋🏽😄 I know you said in your last rant about SK8 and Reki and Renga that you were one of those people that always looks up and learns from others, but after your last Langa edit, I just wanted to remind you how immensely talented you are. I might have not seen your first attempts at editing, but I know how it looks like when you're barely starting something, and I'm sure everyone is proud of the progress you've made and many people looks up to you as the level of skill they want to achieve. You're doing amazing! 💖💖💖

Hi, my love!!!!!! ASDFSDFGHG that’s soooo sweet, thank you so much for saying this, it really means the world to me <3 Oh, haha I’ve deleted most of my old videos so it wouldn’t hurt anyone’s eyes lmao T_T I’m still a bit nervous each time I’m uploading my vids to the day to be honest, even with so many subs rn, but at first I really didn’t have any supporters at all and my god I sucked at this, but I guess the love for my fav ships was stronger apparently haha. So I always get silly happy at each nice comment and feedback, so thank you seriously. 

I really love love love vidding, Idk why but when smth comes out the way I wanted it’s a super addictive feeling for some reason, but many times I just looked at the final result and just threw it in the trash and started over and my god how many times SonyVegas crushed and didn’t autosave the project. I’m like Suga now, I’m pressing the save button each 2 minutes, cause don’t want to lose anything xD Being someone’s inspiration is truly an honor to me, I’ve got some messages that hit me too hard. Still feels weird bc I’m like “but do you know that I can’t even use photoshop tho, how do u like me now then?” lol.

I’m always drawn to talented characters, bc they amaze me, esp the humble ones. Like those who hate Haru or Lanaga just buffle me honestly. I understand that they’re pretty and talented and everything, but they’re also the sweetest and loveliest human beings, so like...??? And I adore those who don’t whine and get what they want. I just can’t help it. I’m a strong believer in the fact that "you can do anything if you put your mind to it”. So far it worked in real life so suck it lol.

People are also saying like Langa doesn’t deserve to win this and Haru doesn’t deserve to be in Olympics, like Langa didn’t snowboard since he was 2 and Haru wasn’t swimming every day since he was born. I’m like.. and you need to check in the mirror if your face is a shade of green. BTW I’ve also been in a professional sports for quite a long time since I was a little kid, ballroom dancing and adored it back then, and I did not get jealous at ppl who were talented than me, I was watching the tapes actually with a popcorn. And oh god those large competition events when you sit there for days and give it all, but then you’re like 296 out of 1000. Why was I proud instead of being sad? Idk xD It was fun.

So thanks for liking the vid, cause I even regretted uploading it a bit yesterday. Sadly everyone already knows that we lost this fandom to the middle schoolers being extra, so they do not care for anything each episode except for this ship, so that’s what I got for posting a just Langa vid:

And etc. and that just made me sad, cause I do not like such fandoms, like it’s not even related to the video, that I’ve been making... with love.  Also thanks for the "sama” title, I’m flattered, but editor only wants to vid matchablossom for now, so like there’s no need for any warnings. I’ve been in such horrendoes fandoms, that I’m immune to this. I also in fact didn’t know some keep ruining Langa’s page and saying that he steals Reki’s screen time... cause he’s aparently the only main character...? ...lmao? I didn’t even know Langa can be hated tbh. I wasn’t really ready for all the drama that followed me making a vid about him.

I’ve already deleted some comments, cause I’m like what this even has to do with the vid about Langa? No, I am not obliged to make a vid about Reki, too. What if I post a matchablossom vid, everyone will only start commenting “do renga”, cause fuck your efforts? I’m like... I hate such fanbases, seriously. I do not even know where this is going, but their fans are already pissing me off. I’m still trying hard for this to not affect my point of view about the ship, cause it’d be kinda unfair to them, but its getting harder each week istg.

And I maybe can’t take requests, but I love when some try to get me addicted on their ship with passion and great arguments. It happened to me with some nice ppl. But def not with agression and stupidity haha.

Cause apparently its one of the fandoms where you can’t NOT care for the main ship, even if you accept it for the only possible Langa ship (cause he doesn’t give a shit for anyone else, so like what’s the point), but it doesn’t do anything for you. I’m like... thanks for threatening. This will make me on board ASAP. Like it’s not the epitomy of love to me... I’m sorry? LMAO 

Some anon even sent me a “you’re dense” (literally thats it) ask after that Reki ask. I was tempted to write smth like “oh I’m sorry, this is the most epic love story of my life and his character is the most complex in the world and he’s the best friend and the most inspiring human being that ever hit my screen. can I become undense now? xD”. But you know I do not know if they’d realise the sarcasm and my pride sadly never allowed me to sell my life values for a bunch of 12 years olds to love me lol

My sister always laughs and jokingly says “but you’d probably get much more subs if you made a vid about this or that, but at what price that would be lmao”. Cause yeah, I never could make myself vid smth I do not like, cause I love vidding and do not want it to be associated with things I do not like, plus it’ll most likely turn out ugly, if I do not care. My mom says that she can feel love I put in my shipping vids that’s why she loves them. I really don’t think she’s wrong. But that also kinda makes me an idiot technically, cause I’m not into many of the popular ships, and some popular animes I just find really basic. 

Also I’m like 100% sure it ain’t happening, but even if they miraculously suck each other’s dicks while sitting on a skate board, I can still have the rights not to care at the end. Like did I sign some form where I’m obliged to love each and everyone canon gay ship even if it’s not what I like? Like gay is not the type of love in relationships. You can only care about his ass like Lan Zhan for example or you can only care about your ass. Like that’s different types of relationships, and whatever you like you like. So get all the way of people’s backs, please.

Also do ppl know that you do not need to be blind to the bad sides of the characters in your ships? Or you just gonna be like “I suddenly can’t see” for forever.

So really thanks for such wonderful message and liking the video and for the boosts when I need them and not being an ass to me if I’m not being obsessed with smth, when you like it. (like I think we have different ship in bnha, right? but we’re still doing great tho, thanks for being an angel <3)

I still didn’t expect this becoming a Voltron 2.0. situation tho. We in our twenties see everything differently, I guess. I do get extra about “their love is everywhere”, but I do not get extra by anonymously attacking ppl, threatening creators and yelling “queeerbating psychotic blind assholes if these two aint fucking by the end of the season I’m shaving my head and jumping out of the window and shoot the director. you do not ship it HARD? YOU DUMB FUCK. THAT’S THE BEST LOVE STORY IN THE WORLD”. Like damn, take your blinders off and see the world, kid. Firstly, it’s definitely not, secondly, ppl see love differently in general and at each age too.

Ah, also you must kill Adam, cause he’s a pedo apparently. Like he ain’t even a threat to your ship, unless you’re blind, but they’re still at it, like they do not know that this kind of age difference is literally nothing for an anime? And that there are canon ships with a huger age difference left and right, too. It’s like its their first time approaching an anime or smth. Like in anime world character can literally kill 1000 ppl with his bare hands and bathe in their blood and we can still stan them, depends on their story, ok? Also Langa couldn’t care less for his advances, so like separate Adam from your ship pls. Like, fuck off, if someone is interested in his character. Yeah, he’s a weirdo for reasons, but anime kind of weird do not apply to real life. Stop acting like you’re some purist, when later you’re gonna ship smth else and it suddenly will not apply. Also rules do not apply to animes, everyone knows they do not apply. These are not western cartoons, my god. And 24 years old flirting with 16 year old is defiinitely not the weirdest shit anyone has ever seen in the anime. Chinese BL has characters who were 14 and 30 when they met and happily married. Also FICTION is not life. Literally no one cares. If you’re scared for your saint eyes, do not watch animes, you’re gonna have a heart-attack from what you can see there. Also we’ve seen gayer bromances in animes, who are just bromances, so pls do not shoot anyone if it’s not canon.

So basically I was kinda pissed yersterday, cause fuck them for ruining the tag, but after chatting with my hommies and your ask, I’m okay again, I just have to avoid this fandom and stick to a tight community xD. I just got used to my nice fandoms and forgot for a bit about the precautions you need to take if you’re in one of those. You know. Who make a circus out of lgbt, instead of supporting it, and make other ppl hate being in fandoms.

P.S. sorry for this partially unrelated rant, your messages really always make my heart bloom, so thanks for supporting me, and I know you’re proud of my progress, too <3 and this makes me happy. LY

[luckykoneko]

"does anyone here know more than one of my fandoms actually" You challenge me??? Alright, gimme Slayers!

[here]

I should know better than to challenge you XD had to think about this one for a bit 'cause I haven't been active in this fandom for a while, I REALLY need to rewatch Slayers (and we REALLY need to do a Slayers watch party sometime)

anyway here goes

the first character i ever fell in love with: Zelgadis, hands down.

a character that i used to love/like, but now do not: Filia, I guess? She's a neat character but I don't care about her as much as I did when I first watched the series.

a ship that i used to love/like, but now do not: Xellos/Filia. Don't get me wrong, I still like the ship, but I don't actively ship it anymore and don't actively seek out content either. It just exists.

my ultimate favorite character™: Zelgadis, hands down. (Zel counter: 2)

prettiest character: I was going to say Zel before he became a chimera (Zel counter: 3) but honestly? Xellos is pretty af and honestly enby goals.

my most hated character: Tough question... I don't really hate any characters? Except for characters that are only relevant for like three episodes anyway. I guess Amelia's dad (I can't even remember his name) is mostly just obnoxious so I guess he counts.

my OTP: Rezo/Eris. Those two deserve each other and tbh her having a crush on him is really heckin cute. If only he actually felt something for her.

my NOTP: I don't think I have one, apart from crackships that I've never seen anyone take seriously anyway.

favorite episode: Tough choice, VERY tough choice. I think the finale of Evolution-R is my favorite, but all season finales are Good.

saddest death: Either Rezo or Eris. I can't choose. Both made me cry. Though the first one to come to mind is Eris so I think she wins by a tiny little margin.

favorite season: The first one, though I also have a weak spot for TRY. But all seasons are Good.

least favorite season: I think Revolution. I don't care all that much for Pocota in most of that season and I also didn't care much for the plot when I first watched it. Honestly I didn't give it a fair chance at the time. I should rewatch it.

character that everyone else in the fandom loves, but i hate: Pocota, I guess. Also Naga? I don't know how I feel about Naga because I only watched one of the OVAs so idk if she counts.

my ‘you’re piece of trash, but you’re still a fave’ fave: Xellos. I think the entire fandom can agree on this, he's not just a piece of trash, he's the entire freaking dumpster, but we all love him anyway.

my ‘beautiful cinnamon roll who deserves better than this’ fave: Not going to say he's a beautiful cinnamon roll because he Isn't, but, Valgaav deserved better. Also Zelgadis deserves all the good things because holy frick that boi suffered enough for three entire lifetimes. (Zel counter: 4)

my ‘this ship is wrong, nasty, and makes me want to cleanse my soul, but i still love it’ ship: Valgaav/Filia if it ended up happening in canon 'cause he's a freaking mess and would not treat her right. But if we're going for Redemption Arc Valgaav like I like to do, I can see it becoming kinda cute in the long run. As long as he starts off by already wanting to be better than he is in canon.

my ‘they’re kind of cute, and i lowkey ship them, but i’m not too invested’ ship: Zelgadis/Amelia. They're cute, I like seeing fan content, but I don't actively ship this. I see it as more of an one-sided crush from Amelia's side. Zel is too much of a mess to get emotionally invested, imo. It is the ultimate post-canon slowburn material tho. (Zel counter: 5)

[discotreque]

Disco 3.08: The Sanctuary

This week IRL was a real mixed bag for me: a lot of messy and barely-manageable anxiety about my health, my day job, and uhhhh *gestures outside*—but also I’ve recently fallen in love (from a responsible social distance)—so it’s been equal parts re-writing professional emails to edit the panic attack out of my tone and gazing dreamily at Discord notifications with cartoon hearts in my eyes. It feels like my life is going to hell in the cutest, coziest handbasket—which is to say that Michael Burnham could not possibly feel like a more relatable character to me right now.

I continue to have issues with the writing at a strange medium-level—somewhere between micro, where the dialogue and characters are really good, and macro, where I’m digging the pace of the overall season, it almost feels like something went wrong in the assembly process, and the script ended up a little bit less than the sum of its perfectly good parts. Again.

But that’s such vague criticism as to be nearly meaningless, and it’s hardly the most interesting level to spend time on anyway. If I zoom out, the parallel season arcs of “getting used to the future” and “the mystery of the Burn” are hanging together wayyyyy better than the Red Angel saga did last year.

And if I zoom in? This episode was funny as shit, wtf.

The discourse re: Tilly these past couple of weeks has been bullshit, and I have a whole angry thing to say about it—but honestly, if you can’t appreciate Doug Jones and Mary Wiseman as a comedic duo, I’m not really mad: mostly I pity the lack of joy in your heart.

Everyone on this show is so funny. Doug’s prissy little delivery absolutely slaughters me (“Execute!...?”), Mary will make a face sometimes that has me screaming laughter into my hands, and I’ve gone on before—and will again—about Sonequa Martin-Green’s egregiously underrated comedy chops.

They were obviously casting for folks w/ jokes in the new season too: David Ajada is no slouch in the dry-delivery or the goofy-face department; his energy and chemistry with Sonequa are as suited to comedy as they are to romance (i.e. extremely 🥵). Anthony Rapp and Wilson Cruz we knew about, but Blu del Barrio—a certified tiny baby!!!—holds their own and lands every smartass whiz-kid one-liner just on the right side of “too precious to stand.” (I almost always at least chuckle, and never roll my eyes, and for a “teen genius” character that’s literally as good as it gets.) And living legend Michelle Yeoh is clearly having the time of her life, omfg.

Disco’s not funny-funny like Lower Decks, but they do funny-on-purpose better than any live-action Trek except maybe DS9. They have such a deep comedic bench they don’t even need Tig Notaro—they have her on just to flex, I presume.

(I don’t know if I’m predicting, per se, that Strange New Worlds—with Rebecca Romjin’s deadpan, Anson Mount’s twinkly eyes, and Ethan Peck’s twinkly-eyed deadpan—is going to have a tone somewhere between Disco S3 and LwD—but I mean... it kinda has to, right? And you know they kept the number for Rainn Wilson’s agent.)

***

At the start of this episode, I was “sure, why the fuck not” about First Officer Tilly; by the end, I was completely on board. And to everyone who’s still wringing their hands about “the real military” this (always from people who have no idea how actual militaries work, lol) and “Lt. Nilsson” that (she... already has a job on the ship? And no character traits besides “stoic” and “furrows brow”? Oh, I get it—she’s skinny and blonde)—y’all are kind of embarrassing me.

“Rank” and “position” (and “seniority” and “day-to-day duties”...) aren’t the same thing, in Star Trek or any IRL military. Yes, the permanent first officers of normal-duty Starfleet ships we’ve seen have usually been command-division officers with the rank of Commander—but not always. Star Trek: Discovery-A, if you will, is a unique show about a unique ship in a unique situation: “B-b-but that’s not how they do it on Star Trek!!!” isn’t a legitimate criticism, not of this���it’s the mournful cry of an entitled pissbaby who isn’t having their hand held all the way to the fireworks factory.

Here’s what an argument supported by the text of the first 37 episodes of Star Trek: Discovery actually looks like: Sylvia Tilly is nervous and lacks self-confidence, but once she gets over herself—which she can do pretty much instantly in a crisis, even when hilariously intoxicated—she is competent as hell. In lower-stakes situations, without intense pressure to focus her attention, she sometimes gets sidetracked by her own insecurities; at her best, she channels that anxious energy into ambition, drive, and being scrupulously organized.

The only person Tilly doesn’t always get along with is Stamets, and even Stamets’s husband thinks he’s an asshole. Since Season 1, we’ve seen her easily socializing with the rest of the crew, who seem to universally adore her. And she’s also happy to leave her social comfort zone at a moment’s notice: she aligned herself with Ash Tyler (miss you, Shazad!) when no one else would, and she instantly befriended Po even when Po was in Weird Feral Alien Princess mode and Tilly had salad in her hair. She doesn’t like confrontation, but she’s brave enough to initiate it anyway if she needs to, and she’s compassionate with other people’s feelings while still setting firm boundaries. (Her graceful dodge of Rhys’s tipsy kiss at the party in 1.07 lives rent-free in my head to this day.)

No, Tilly didn’t finish the Command Training Program—but she started it, which is almost certainly more command training than any of the lieutenants whose names we know, all of whom are Ops or Science personnel with, presumably, specialized non-command training of their own. The same could be assumed for any unseen ranking officers on this science ship with an entirely volunteer skeleton crew.

And seriously, about Nilsson: she’s my #3 background bae after Octopus Head and the lady on Pike’s Enterprise with the spiky red face, but her job is Spore Drive Ops, not personnel. If she’s running after Saru with a holo-clipboard, who’s going to look serious and push holo-buttons when there’s a Black Alert? *drops holo-mic* Drumhead!

***

The stuff on Kwejian, though. Ooof. Ol’ Two-Takes Frakes directed this one, and between the kinetic energy he always adds to the camera and the scintillating performances he evokes, things stayed moving so briskly I almost didn’t notice Book’s entire “homeworld” was a rental house outside Vancouver, a couple acres of adjacent woods, and like six or seven people.

It’s a hot mess in retrospect, but in the moment it gave us the intensity of Book and Kyheem trying to hurt each other’s feelings by poking at 15-year-old wounds, which as a sibling with complicated sibling relationships I found both funny and devastating—not to mention Frakes directing “shaky bridge” explosion falls at an obvious intensity of “10” on an outdoor location shoot. It falls apart at the slightest scrutiny, but I can’t lie, on first viewing I was totally along for the ride.

***

I’m dying to see where this Georgiou thing goes. It doesn’t feel like a stretch to assume she got Cronenberg’d a couple weeks ago, probably to get her under the thumb of this century’s Section 31, and that her arc is going to take Michelle Yeoh off this show in a way that sets up the S31 show. But also, I don’t care so much whether I’m right, I just want to watch Michelle Yeoh—and Sonequa Martin-Green, and also David Cronenberg tbh, and bring back Shazad Latif while you’re at it—get wherever they’re going.

It’s also a fun and interesting direction to take the comically-evil comic relief character and show that her performative moustache-twirling is partly habit and partly a transparent emotional defence against very real fear and vulnerability. We’re all products of our circumstances, and a radical enough change in circumstances can afford almost anyone at least the opportunity to change. I can’t say Emperor Georgiou would have been my first choice of protagonist for that storyline, but it’s not like Michelle Yeoh’s not going to fuckin’ crush it.

***

Miscellany:

So the Burn had an origin point, and now that point is broadcasting a signal that’s somehow both a haunting melody that everyone seems to know—but no one can remember learning—and a Federation distress signal. What the fuck, y’all. I have full-body goosebumps just typing that.

Saru workshopping his own captainly catchphrase with the aid of Tilly’s extreme sincerity and organizational skills is probably the funniest thing that’s ever happened on this show—followed closely by the uncomfortably lingering reaction shots when he’s trying them out on the bridge 😂 (And omg please give Rhys and Bryce the dumbass buddy-comedy C-plots they deserve next season, I beg you.)

I would do a little “prop watch” entry on those Kwejianian(?) bolt-throwing rifles, but I’d have to stop drooling over them first. “Curvy polished hardwood” seems to be New Trek shorthand for “extra sleek and futuristic” (cf. the bridge of the USS Titan in the LwD finale), and I have to say: I am fully into it.

Restating my prediction that we will not see Detmer and Owosekun get together this season, because we will find out that they’ve been together for ages. Everyone knew—Pike even knew!—it just never came up in front of the audience before. That would be one of the cutest ways to do it imho, and one of the funniest too, especially as a meta-joke about how much character development didn’t happen in the first two seasons. (That said, if we get to see their first kiss, I will be screaming with incoherent joy for days, so this is a real win-win for me.)

Speaking of cute: IRL spouses Mary Wiseman and Noah Averbach-Katz, both Julliard-trained actors (it’s where they met!), can’t quite hide their chemistry in the scenes between Tilly and Ryn. I loved seeing Tilly be a hardass when Ryn was rude to the captain, but that sparkle in her eyes didn’t quite match the context <3

And speaking of people who are VERY OBVIOUSLY IN LOVE: that last scene with Book and Michael, and his nervous little “yeah, I said it” eyebrow lift, and her irrepressible giggle as she’s walking away... it was almost too much. Especially right after the queer-family scenes with Stamets and Culber and Adira. My poor heart is going through a lot lately, and I guess I’m just glad Season 3’s emotional intensity is melting it with soft sweet scenes like that instead of kicking it down repeated flights of stairs like Season 1.

***

Next week: everyone stops caring about the Burn and starts trying to solve an even more important mystery—why is this (holographic) dude wearing an early-2360s uniform with an early-2370s combadge?

[changbin-froggy-jimin]

BTS and Ateez for the kpop group game ! 💜

Ateez:

My first bias: Hongjoong <3 it was the mullet <3

My current bias: Hongjoong <3 still sexy without the mullet <3

Favorite Song: Win, I love this one!! In another life I would have probably said HALA HALA but I’ve listened to it too much lol, but honestly minus celebration the whole Fever 2 album is AMAZING def worth a listen, or several!

Favorite MV: Say My Name/HALA HALA

OTP: ... umm, I don’t really ship any Idols in general, but I tend to like the Seonghwa/Hongjoong dynamics, there was just something about that one time that Seonghwa was like “why aren’t you ever home anymore I miss you” “you want me home more?” “Yes” “then I’ll come home more often” and that other time Hongjoong said something like “you returned to where you should have always been” (with him) when talking about Seonghwa spending to much time with Wooyoung and San... it’s just very funny to me lol (these ‘quotes’ might be a bit off as I don’t remember exactly what was said but that was the gist of both conversations I believe!)

Best smile: Yunho honestly! He’s such an underrated member of Ateez!! He’s my second favorite and needs more love because I love him lol, a big big puppy baby whom I love and adore

Fave Coreo: HALA HALA!!! ITS SO COOL!!

Fave era: Visuals: Say My Name, Music: Zero: Fever part 2

Merch?: I have a T-Shirt I got at hot topic and a Zero: Fever part 2 album!

Seen em live?: Nope.... but I would have if I could have! Would definitely love to go once we finally can!

Favorite voice: Def Mingi, his voice is what attracted me to the group, I LOVE the deep voice trend in kpop, Mingi, like Felix (Stray Kids) and Leedo (Oneus), really scratch that itch for me!!

Favorite dancer: San I guess?? Dancing isn’t really my thing as you know lol

BTS:

My first bias: Namjoon (I think Namjoon is a lot of English speakers first bias because of his English skills, and honestly he still has a huge place in my heart as you know! Plus he BIG SEXY) (I think of mic drop Namjoon and my brain implodes)

My current bias: Jimin, I just love his softness, I really love the members that take care of the rest and Jimin plays personal therapist (it’s the libra in him I get it you know?) to all, so I really appreciate this as it’s a very important thing for me (it’s probably my libra moon lol) but that’s what got me at first, then when I was getting into them I saw he struggled and no one was really helping him and he was like trying to do better and honestly it broke my heart so I full adopted the baby because he needed care and protection and actives my Aquarius sun and the ‘leave no man behind’ and ‘help/root for the underdog’ complex we have, so anyways, I love him for his softness and his fighting spirit because I want him to do well and succeed but also he’s a mess and sharp witted and a cheater at games (another trait I tend to like??????? Like that’s on me so????) he makes me laugh and I love to see him do well and win at things because he deserves it!! He’s also really motivated and a go-getter which is v sexy to me!! When things are tough he always works hard to fix them and do his best and honestly is there anything better than that? To me no, to my friend who says I put to much emphasis on work ethic? Yes. Also Jimin is big sexy, this is an undeniable fact

Favorite Song: Dionysus (like have you seen the MMA 2019 performance??? There’s no coming back from that) the song is just such a bop and one of the big ones that got me fully into them and kpop as a whole!! Good memories and a great song!!

Favorite MV: I’m a blood sweat and tears whore, could watch that mv any time anywhere babey

OTP: again, don’t really tend to genuinely ship anyone, but I really like a good YoonMin dynamic, love the way Yoongi roots for Jimin, and pushes him in small ways to be better, I think Jimin is pretty oblivious to this though??? And like Jimin needs so much audible praise and gentle care that I think Yoongi for him is very hard to understand even though I think Jimin is very much Yoongi’s favorite member, like maybe it’s because I’m super empathetic, but I always think of like two moments for them, the first is when Jimin was helping Yoongi makes those like 300 presents for his fans and Jimin stayed all day to help him out, Jimin was being Jimin so he was constantly asking if Yoongi appreciated him being there, and Yoongi being Yoongi didn’t say much to assure him, but like you could FEEL the happiness radiating off of Yoongi but like it hurt Jimin to not be directly praised? It’s just a big mess I love it, it’s horrendously painful to watch,

Then there’s the whole ‘Yoongi told me to be the project manager’ or whatever the job was called for their album, Like Yoongi wasn’t giving out advice to everyone... just Jimin (or at least the way in which I understand it), because I genuinely believe Jimin is his favorite and he’s pushing him to grow into a confident and capable person but like... I don’t think Jimin connected the ‘Yoongi is caring for me in his own unique way that isn’t words of affirmation’ dots... it’s a train wreck but I love it lol (plus also Yoongi saying he prefers Jimin’s voice?? When I think Jimin heard for so long that Kookie sings better?? He just loves that boy so much!!) anyways I digress, I just really love their dynamic and it’s my favorite to watch, I know I’ve talked about their dynamic before but honestly I could go on and on and on about it haha, I’m so glad they’re friends you know? Not only so I can watch them, but because Jimin’s selfless help will always be given to Yoongi without question, and because Yoongi will always push Jimin to be better... ok I’m done now for real this time lol

Best smile: Jungkook, his little bunny smile absolutely sends me to the moon it’s so cute!! (Jimin’s is a very close second!)

Fave Coreo: Lie for sure!

Fave era: The storyline era with the acronym I always forget!! I think it spanned a couple of eras in the entirety but I loved it!! But also just like straight up Wings era!

Merch?: I have more BT21 one stuff than I think I have BTS stuff tbh haha, but I have all versions of MOS:7 I have some love yourself versions from a friend, and my army membership box I got to purchase the concert tickets we bought but never got to use :{

Seen em live?: was supposed to last year 😢

Favorite voice: Yoongi, love the way he raps, it’s a really aggressive and sexy flow, definitely my type, as someone who stans and loves rappers most, Yoongi will always have a major place in my heart, no one really compares on a talent scale for me, and his solo stuff is some of the sexiest you could ever imagine/hear, love it!!

Favorite dancer: Not super surprising I think but it’s totally Jimin!! Anytime I watch that man perform Lie I die lol, the way that man moves is a crime

[drunklander]

Drunj!Der Yells About Outlander

Thoughts on Ep. 508

I mean, shame on me for allowing myself to get my hopes up that the show might have turned a corner last week. I should know better by now.

At least Young Ian’s back. And Marsali had a nice moment. And that’s about all I have to say about this episode that’s positive. I swear to fuck, this show hates Claire as much as the author of the books does. Where the fuck is the lead protagonist, show? Can she come back? Can she get a story line of her own that’s more than just a random scene every few episodes, please? And can Bree please be given something to fucking do that doesn’t involve Roger, Jemmy or rape? Does Fergus still even live on the Ridge?

But yeah, I guess let’s just all watch the episode twice so our dumb lady!brains can understand that Matt’s stupid silent movie gimmick was actually ~ArT~ and not, you know, a stupidly bad creative choice. Seriously, fuck that guy.

I can’t tell you how much idgaf about watching Roger teach. Also, Bree’s like his students’ age since she was in college too. So really all this bit is doing is to make me skeeved out about their age difference.

“Can you tell me why anyone would go to the trouble of burying one?” he said, condescendingly, like the doucherocket he is. Do not disrespect Young Ian like that, asshat.

“People live and die by their words.” *gestures to the beautiful shitposts on this hellsite* sure jan dot gif.

I already want to fastforward.

Would 100% rather sit through a lecture on suspension bridges than watch silent movies, tbh.

Hate the title card. Hate this whole gimmick.

Hate.

HAAAAATE.

Roger got hanged. Roger was dumb, Buck was an abusive and toxic fuckwad. But still, Roger got hanged and this is how we find out he’s alive and how he was saved?

It should be this big emotional moment. It should make me feel a thing in spite of myself. But nope! Gotta do this fucking silent movie thing. Which is hilariously terrible. And I laughed at it the whole time. In a mean and judgey fashion. What a craptastic creative choice. Whoever’s idea that was is a fucking idiot. *stares at a certain pompous af showrunner*

Ok but for real though, does LJG just like live in North Carolina now? Why is he always around, besides, you know, so we don’t forget he’s a character who exists.

For real though, he lives in Virginia and gets more screen time than fucking Fergus and Marsali who live fucking next door.

At least writing this recap is gonnna be quick and easy since they waste so much time re-showing the stupid silent movie footage.

Yes, I know, they’re trying to show Roger’s PTSD. Which involves flashbacks. And gradually turn it to color once he’s like come to terms with what happened and starts to move forward. But the execution is so bad that the whole arc is wasted because it’s just so poorly done.

Oh hey! A Claire and Bree scene! I love those. Except oh wait, it aggressively fails the Bechdel Test.

I JUST WANT THE FUCKING WOMEN ON THIS SHOW TO HAVE SOMETHING TO DO THAT’S COMPLETELY FUCKING SEPARATE FROM THE MEN. ARGH.

Jocasta singing at Murtz’s cairn is a reminder that everyone should check out MDK’s music.

And her wearing the necklace Murtz gave her makes the existence of show!Duncan even dumber. Like oh hey, new husband, don’t mind me, just mourning my dead boyfriend and wearing his jewelry. But it’s totally normal since my niece-in-law still wears her abusive ex-husband’s ring.

Sorry, show!Duncan, but a more pointless character was never included. Show!Duncan wins the prize for most BeCaUsE tHe BoOk dumbassery.

Repeatedly showing what’s basically a snuff film is...a choice.

LJG has no sense of personal space when it comes to the Frasers. And it’s fucking creepy.

Oh look, another scene where all Claire gets to do is comfort someone about a man.

*BANGS FIST ON TABLE* GIVE CLAIRE BEAUCHAMP THE STORY LINES SHE DESERVES.

Jemmy aged like 3 years in the 3 month time jump.

Ok, I totally get why Roger hadn’t spoken yet. But once he did, the seal was broken. Not talking after he yelled to stop Jemmy, even a little bit, is just a dick move. Not that he’d be magically better. But he like refuses to even take baby steps.

CAN WE PLEASE GET THROUGH AN EPISODE WITHOUT A MUSICAL INTERLUDE. I FUCKING HATE THE CLEMENTINE SONG.

GRANNIE CLAIRE AND GRANDA JAMIE ARE MY FAVE.

OMFG AN ARROW. THAT CLEARLY MEANS...YOUNG IANNNNN!!!!!

So glad he’s back. So fucking glad. Yes, it means one more character to dilute how much time we can spend with any given person, but it’s a character that I like so hopefully he takes away from some of the time given to ones I don’t like?

Aaand Roger can’t even bring himself to try to talk to the guy who gave himself up in his place. Fuck Roger.

Claire does a better job at first than Jamie at picking up the vibes Young Ian is putting off, but like, for two people who are supposed to be emotionally intelligence, neither of them do a good job at first of really *seeing* Ian.

John Bell is really good in this episode.

Omfg Marsali has tarot cards. She’s like leaning full on into being the white witch’s apprentice and I fucking love her so much.

Also, the Hanged Man card is representative of self-sacrifice and martyrdom rather than like being actually hanged as a punishment. But whatevs.

Ok I think the reason Jenny yelling at Jamie to snap out of it in S3 bugged me where this scene with Bree yelling at Roger doesn’t is because sibling dynamic is completely different than spouses where both of them have gone through something unimaginable.

That he can’t even say anything here. Or give her any kind of sign that he’s still in there is a dick move. He *can* speak. He knows that now. So does everyone else. He’s actively choosing not to. Even to say that he just needs more time to work through his shit. No one’s asking him to be a chatterbox and totally back to normal.

Young Ian just sitting there while everyone else does grace is literally me at every family holiday.

Oh look, a wild Fergus appeared!

Ok, I never got the surveying thing. Wouldn’t the land already be registered? Since they were given the paperwork and shit for it from the governor? I know there was some bit about it in the book about keeping it after the Revolution but like, who the fuck else are they registering it with that would make a difference? The gov’t is still the English gov’t?

“But there are things you keep hidden from others. You and Claire both.” Ok, can he please be talking about time travel? I mean, I know he’s talking about his wife and their miscarriages, but I just want someone else to know about time travel already please and thank you.

HOW THE FUCK IS MARSALI STILL PREGNANT?! SHE’S BEEN PREGNANT FOR LIKE A FUCKTON OF TIME.

Fuck yeah not-Catholic-anymore-Ian. No grace, talking about the creator in a way that isn’t explicitly the christian god. Good job, kid.

My parents called me to say happy easter and I had to be like, uh, you remember that I don’t celebrate that, right?

Happy Zombie!Jeebus Appreciation Day to all the still christian people. And happy chance to have fun with burner zoom accounts named Elijiah to the jewish folks.

Jokes aside, the scene with Young Ian and Marsali was really nice and Marsali remains a fucking saint. It’s nice that Young Ian has someone who like actually gets what it’s like to find a home in a group of strangers.

Oh Claire, think more highly of your assistant. Also, what a clunky fucking way to be like oh hey, one of the emo!bros is gonna try to off themselves.

Ok but with the paper airplane now too, can we please show Young Ian finding out about time travel? Please?

Ok, but Claire automatically jumping to Roger wanting to off himself with her herbs... It’s making me judge both of them a little that neither picked up on just how clearly Young Ian was suffering. Like come the fuck on, y’all. It wasn’t subtle.

Also, can we please have more Adso?

SOMEONE GIVE YOUNG IAN A HUG! NO, NOT YOU, ROGER! SOMEONE GOOD!

Yada yada yes they both have been through something shitty and call me a biased asshole, but I can’t bring myself to feel anything about Roger and I feel all the things about Young Ian.

So Roger won’t talk when his wife begs, but he’ll talk when someone calls him on his bullshit. Cool. Cool cool cool. Nice dude.

NO ONE WAS ASKING FOR THE OLD ROGER, YOU TWATWAFFLE. THEY WERE ASKING FOR *A* ROGER. INSTEAD OF A ZOMBIE.

Again, there’s more to that tarot card than a literal hanged man, but whatever, show.

Oh thank fuck the episode is finally over. Expectations are back down in the gutter for the rest of the season. Please pleasantly surprise me, show, but I will not make the mistake again of thinking you’re actually gonna be consistently good again.

[shittyshakes]

Shakespeare Commentary from Someone who has never read Shakespeare (Much Ado Version)

 In which Mod Rachel just. Nerds out. Because Beatrice and Benedick deserve it.

Act 1

Scene 1

I can already tell that this shit is going to be over-dramatic as fuck, but I live for these kinds of romcoms

Beatrice is a WOMAN, like holy fuck she’s a whole mood

(yes, I’m thirsting on this feed and i’m not even sorry)

she either realllly likes this Benedick fellow or really despises him, but I’m going to go with the former

their banter is really funny though

i will state this reads like flirting? like this is just establishing all the sexual tension right?

I don’t know how I feel about Don Pedro’s character

What does Benedick have against love or is he just against Hero? Or is he just salty from his lack of love?

although to be fair Claudio did just see Hero and declare his undying love for her, that’s kind of ridiculous

“I’ll live as a bachelor”

those are famous last words, why you always lyin Benedick?

wait...

Benedick, as in bene-dick; is Benedick’s name a pun on dicks??????

I knew this play was wrought with sexual innuendos but holy crap

after confirming with Leo, I can confirm that we talked about this exact fact in lecture and I’m just a dumbass

For some reason all of Don Pedro’s plotting to set people up gives me bad vibes but maybe I’m just superstitious

Scene 2

gasp! An Antonio appears! Is he gay

side note, apparently this is the only Antonio in Shakespeare that is not and, won’t lie, I’m slightly disappointed

wait was all this scene just 2 dudes sitting around and talking about Hero? what was even the point?

Scene 3

Is Don John sad like Antonio was from The Merchant of Venice? 

for some reason I think not

oh wait, maybe he has an inferiority complex to Don Pedro

okay, since this guys name is Borachio (which means drunkard in Spanish) can I infer that he is always drunk and/or is drunk in this scene?

maybe Don John is just salty, maybe that’s all his motivation is

Act 2

Scene 1

Hero speaks!

I’m interested to see if Hero is the “hero” of the play, implementing the pun

P.S. I’ve finished reading, she is not and I’ve never been more disappointed to be wrong. I was really rooting for her

In text (before watching any kind of staged edition) I imagine this to be like the dinner in Shrek 2, so I’m curious to see how people blocked this scene in film and stage

Does Beatrice really need a husband though? She’s doing fine on her own and we stan 1 strong independent woman

side note, sometimes I forget Hero is even in this play, she speaks so little

I am so confused, who is Margaret and where did they come from? Is she even that important or is she just here to move the plot?

are she and borachio a thing? wtf even was their exchange???

Same with Ursula? 

I can’t believe they’re going to talk to Benedick like he’s not Benedick because of the mask

THE TROPES, THE TROPES

So wait, now Claudio is pretending to be Benedick? None of this is a good idea

So wait, now Claudio thinks that Don Pedro loves and wants Hero?

God, what a mess. This is more of a mess than I am

So, Benedick likes Beatrice then

he kind of reminds me of a young boy who can’t confess his feelings so he’s just awful to her (pulling pigtails)

I agree with Don Pedro that Benedick and Beatrice would make an excellent married couple; imagine the hate-sex

but also, Don Pedro has waaaaaaaayyyyy too much time on his hands

Scene 2

Is Don John being influenced by Borachio?

Is borachio the real mastermind?

better question, is borachio drunk right now?

Scene 3

oh Benedick definitely has the hots for Beatrice

oh my god he just wants her to confess first, what a dork

Claudio @ Benedick: oh how the turned tables rawr XD

I both love and hate how easily Benedick is buying into all this

They totally know Benedick is listening, those sly dogs

This is prime bad romcom right now

Act 3

Scene 1

Hero is back and with some lines

I hope she speaks more in this second half, I’m intrigued by her character

oh so even she is in on the “let’s trick Benedick and Beatrice into confessing”

I love this for her. I hope she is having the time of her life because it’s what she deserves

because tbh, no one here gives a frack about her and Claudio

Also I can NOT believe that these people say Benedick’s name with a straight face. They are basically complimenting his penis the entire play and I am here for it

I still can’t believe these dumbfucks bought it

Scene 2

ooh this is when Benedick changes appearances, he did it to woo Beatrice

i love that for him, i love that he is so soft for her

we stan 1 brotp between Benedick and his homies

Don John noooooooooooooooooooooooo

I’m really not here for Claudio x Hero but it is what it is

Scene 3

what the fuck kind of name is dogberry?

wait is this insinuating that he’s shit? or the shit?

a shitty bitch?????

so they’re just plotting

Scene 4

so much speaking from Hero

we live to see it

all things that begin with H --> ‘horny’ ;D

Scene 5

they’re talking about the wedding, right?

this is the part where i begin to get lost and wish for an adaptation to watch

so is dogberry going to crash the wedding?

Act 4

Scene 1

wait did Claudio just deny marriage? And they just continued on like nothing happened?

did he just insult Hero in front of her father?? what balls

oh he’s saying she’s unpure

oh my god this is a mess

i can’t believe that everyone just believes this? and now she’s not worthy to live? That’s cray-cray? like what is even happening

oh shit, is it happening????

oh shit it’s happening!!!

oh shit no

but as a side, please do kill claudio, he’s a dumbass who doesn’t deserve Hero

Scene 2

sexton, really?

i’m not really sure what the point of this scene was?

also what was all the talk about ass? do they mean like butts? or like a donkey? 

i’m so confused ?????

Act 5

Scene 1

so they’re talking about the “death” of Hero

so they’re pulling a juliet? or is juliet pulling a hero?

I guess this isn’t important but I don’t actually know which was written first

yeah suck on that claudio, you piece of shit

AND DON PEDRO STILL BELIEVES THIS GARBAGE

absolute heresy I say

Benedick is the actual homie, the MVP

get Claudio’s head out of his ass

god, all men are bastards except benedick

yeah that’s right, I said it

Scene 2

I actually love Benedick, 10/10 great character

I wasn’t sure how I felt about him at first, but now we gucci

I’m glad they’re back to playful bantering. 

I love that for them

Scene 3

so we’re at the “funeral” or just Claudio before the grave?

despite the fact that he’s the one that humiliated and betrayed Hero at the altar he’s still going to return every year? i’m so confused

Claudio isn’t a great character and I don’t like him

to be completely honest, I can’t even tell if he’s sad during this interaction

Scene 4

so Claudio was sincerely sad then?

Benedick’s asking permission to marry Beatrice? That’s so cute, he’s such a dork, an absolute Hufflepuff

we stan 1 respectful boi

and now we’re back with the denial and insecurity but at least we’re finally getting to the true confession

the tension was killing me

aw yeahhhhhhh, they finally kissed

I don’t know how I feel about Beatrice’s lack of lines following the kiss but it is what it is

and just remembering that during Shakespeare’s time this was all played by dudes makes me absolutely lose my shit

final rating: 7/10

Benedick and Beatrice were the highlights of this play and I can’t wait to see the adaptations to see people genuinely have fun playing these two characters

genuinely a really fun play and I wasn’t completely lost reading this so we count that as a win

minus points for claudio, i’m still salty that he and hero got married

[purplesurveys]

742

Are we alike? So True or False, Yes or No. Explain if you'd like. You are 16 years old. 16+6. You are a junior in high school. Graduating college senior. Math and Science aren't your best subjects. I was definitely more of an arts student. I only did great in math and science when I liked the topics we were learning, but otherwise I never felt like exerting as much effort for them as I did for classes like history. Your dog is really little. He’s medium-sized. He’s a really weird size actually hahaha and I guess it’s because he’s mixed. He’s too big to be classified as a small dog and too small to be grouped with the larger dogs. You love being tan. I mean I obviously don’t go advertising how much I love it, but it’s definitely nothing to complain about.

You think you are pretty for the most part. I have my days. You love making other people smile. Getting people’s approval is always a nice achievement. You love bracelets or just wearing jewelry in general. I think jewelry’s pretty but I’m particular about them – I prefer them to be silver and for them to have subtle designs, never explosive as I think that’s a tad bit tacky. Also I prefer necklaces to bracelets. TLC is one of your favorite channels on TV. It certainly would be if I still regularly watched television. I know for a fact Gab and I will tune in to TLC when I crash at her place. You have been in three different countries. Six, so far. You have ridden in a plane. Yeah well I live in an archipelago, so we’re separated from all the countries near us and have had to ride planes to get to them. You’re learning how to drive a car. I already did. I’ve had my license for four years. You have had 3 serious boyfriends. You believe you can only have 1 true love. As a demi this is typically how I think, but I like keeping my mind open. I know this is certainly not how it works for a lot of people, and that’s valid. You have a job. You have been to Aruba. No but if anything this reminded me of Friends because this was where Rachel was supposed to have her honeymoon before she ran out of her wedding hah. That contributed absolutely nothing to the conversation but yep. You love little babies or children :) Yes, and it increases as I get older. I have to practice for when it’s my turn, lol. You can't wait to get married one day. You always try to have a smile on your face. Not always. I allow myself to be sad or cranky if I want to. Your emotions change very easily. Sometimes. It’s not a dominant trait of mine though; I can typically keep my emotions consistent and it’s only volatile if I’m under a lot of pressure or stress. You cry very easily. Yep, I’m very sensitive. Earlier today I cried over a girl’s Tiktok about her dog with diabetes and the adjustments that had to be made for him, like how he stopped going down the stairs or sleeps a lot more these days. You cry a lot. Yes, because I cry easily. You have a boyfriend you have been with for a while. Girlfriend. You hate when people say 'I love you' too quickly. Idk, I haven’t had to deal with this.  The hair on your legs grow very quickly. Not very quickly but yeah it does grow back after a certain amount of time. I shave every one or two weeks. You always feel like your back needs cracked. It’s definitely not in the best shape, coupled with the fact that I already have scoliosis to begin with. You’re still trying to determine what you want to do after high school. I have career fields in mind but as for exact jobs, no. You love fashion. I like keeping up with what’s trending within my age group but I’m not obsessed with fashion at all, like I don’t know the fashion week schedules or who the biggest models are these days, and I still think some fashion trends don’t make sense. You love shopping for school dance dresses. You think decorating is very cool. It’s okay. I wouldn’t do it myself but I have friends who are great at decorating, like Laurice, and I think it’s a good and a pretty cool skill to have. You always seem to be cold. Not always, but I do feel cold more easily than the people I know. I’m always the first one to grab a jacket, a blanket, or to move further away from the AC. Still, I prefer being cold than hot. You love hot weather. Oh my god fuck no. 22 years of living in a tropical country and I’ve had just about enough of the sun which is all we get all year round. I can’t wait to live somewhere with a lot of rain and with snow. You have tanned in a tanning bed. I don’t have to; plus aren’t those really unhealthy to stay in? You aren't a very good cook. I can’t even call myself a cook. You aren't an independent person. Hah, no sir. I find comfort in doing almost everything with at least one person with me, even if it’s just grabbing a snack or having something photocopied in school. I went to UPTC alone ONCE just to try having dinner all by myself cause everyone seemed to have great experiences of it, but I hated every second of being alone. You like any type of food, you aren't picky. The only foods I’ll refuse are fruit and anything with raisins on them, but generally I’m not hard to feed.

Country is your favorite kind of music. You quit watching American Idol. I quit when I realized all the wrong people kept winning. If I remember right, the last straw for me was Scotty McCreery over Lauren Alaina. You like the show 'Big Brother'. I never did get into it, but everyone did. I used to think something was wrong with me for not enjoying any season of the show, but eventually I stopped caring. You used to like Jersey Shore. I was only interested in it because it felt edgy to watch as a 12 year old lmao, but I was never obsessed. You think tye dye is super cool. It’s definitely cool and fun to make, but it’s not the first, fifth, or thirtieth thing I’d wear. You love glitter. Your nails are almost always painted. Total opposite. You have had sex before. You have a best friend of the opposite sex. I have close friends, but no best friends. Andrew is the best closest guy friend I have, probs. You have been stabbed in the back a few times. You don't trust many people. Again, quite the opposite. I like to believe everyone deserves trust in the beginning, but I have a rule to cut anyone who breaks that trust out of my life. You don't have many close friends. I have a lot of friends but I like keeping my closest circle small. You’re normally nice to everyone. Duh? You like to meet new people. Egh, it depends on who it is. I can find other people exhausting to talk to from the get-go; or sometimes I’ll find them too different and I just know no friendship is gonna come out of it. Sometimes you can be pretty shy. I’ve learned to be a bit more extroverted through the years but I’ve never lost my trademark shyness hahaha. You don't have any secrets. This blog is a big glaring secret from everyone I know. Your boyfriend has supported you through your hardest times. Girlfriend. You have a scar from cutting your leg while shaving. Not right now, but it’s happened a few times. You think flowers are very pretty. They’re okay. I’m not crazy about them but I do like giving/receiving bouquets. You hate nature. I have no reason to; it’s peaceful and beautiful. You don't like animals very much. Love them. You like to eat meat, any kind. I wouldn’t try all kinds of meat. Like I wouldn’t eat cats, dogs, or anything that’s critically endangered. But I do tend to be adventurous with meat, much like with any other dish I try. You have eaten donkey before. You’re pretty close with your parents. Like I said in an old survey, we have a buddy-type of relationship. We don’t hate each other but we also wouldn’t have heart-to-heart talks with one another and we’re so not emotionally close. You are also very close with your sibling(s). My sister and I also tend to treat each other like friends, ^ just like that. We’re not emotionally close either; when my sister’s cat died last week I could only send her comforting messages on Messenger because we’re not the type to visit each other’s rooms and cry to each other. You don't mind being around your family. If there is anything I learned in the last two months, it’s that this exact fact holds true. You love summer. Only when there is a trip planned. Otherwise, I don’t enjoy the weather at all. You don't know how to swim. There were always a couple of months allotted for swimming PEs in all years in my old school, so I know basic swimming and treading. You like being a teenager. It was okay. It certainly got better when I finally fit in somewhere and got invited to teenager stuff. You thought you were depressed at some point in your life. I was, throughout my teenage years. These days I’ll occasionally have very low points, but I don’t think it’s severe depression anymore. You feel like someone is growing apart from you. No, not at this point in my life. You like to take walks. With this climate, I always bitch about walking haha. When school was still ongoing I would typically drive everywhere, no matter how near my destination was.   You aren't very good at buying gifts for people. I wouldn’t say this. I pride myself on being a good listener and by extension, being a good gift-giver. I’ve often made Gab cry with my gifts. You love seeing couples in love. Sure but tbh I’m partial to same-sex couples because I see them a lot less. When I see one in public I always make sure to give them a kind smile. You love weddings :) I haven’t been to one since I was 9, but sure. You are addicted to sweets. You get scared very easily. Only at night. You don't like to be alone. If I’m doing stuff outside, then yes this is the case. Otherwise I don’t mind having alone time at home. Many people have asked if you were black, but really you're white. I’m neither of these. You could do without the TV. Have been for a few years now. You text a lotttt. Back when everything was normal and I had load on my phone every week, yep. I don’t really need to text anyone these days, though. You tend to make extra letters on your words. Only occasionally. You hate when people use bad grammar. It only bugs me when I expect them to know better, like if an American is being cocky or racist but still fucks up basic grammar; or if a Filipino wants to act like a know-it-all and obviously has poor command of English, but still forces themselves to speak it when they could very well speak Filipino in this hugely bilingual country lmao. You have a little bit of chub on you but you aren't fat. Not really. I only get bloated after I eat but my metabolism is very quick and it disappears relatively quickly. You are pretty good at rollerblading. I was never good at it even though I practiced a lot. I generally have bad balance. You wish you were a good gymnast. Sure, I feel that this is a very cool skill to have. I remember being fascinated by the gymnasts from Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo and how prettily they spun their ribbons. You are a competitive cheerleader. I am not, but it was one of my dreams. You are very uncoordinated. I wouldn’t say very. I’m not very physical these days and I can be clumsy, but my hand-eye coordination has stayed sharp all these years from playing table tennis; and I was good at futsal and had good reflexes when we had to play it for PE. You aren't good at making decisions, but you try your best. You love God very much :) This is such a hard pass it deserves a strikethrough.

You love lotion and perfume. I love the variety that’s available out there, but I don’t splurge. You wish you could own everything in Victoria's Secret. You wish you could be a model. You hate when girls are sluts. Even the word ‘slut’ isn’t gonna fly by in 2020, much less this entire statement. You hate when people act dumb on purpose. Don’t we all? You don't care what other people think of you. Depends on who it is. Some opinions will matter, and some won’t. You love to cuddle. You wish you could bake. I wish I can be good at the kitchen in general but tbh I always let my fear of fire and knives take over and I’m always left too scared to learn. You would like to own a pool. When I’m richer, sure. You kind of regret a few things... You want a little tattoo that no one can see. I kind of want my tattoos to be personal to me, yes.

[pkmnmasterlyra]

Adventures in Unova

We've reached the end of Ash's Unova adventure~ So the interesting thing about this one is this is the only time the Pokemon League is at the start of a season rather than the end. Which is probably a good thing, as it is terrible! So Ash has 4 fights in total. The first fight is against Trip, 1v1, Pikachu vs Serperior. Trip may be a bad rival, but he still deserved better than that, and on top of that, this battle is just Serperior knocks Pikachu around for 5-10 minutes with Pikachu being completely unable to defend itself or counter, then one shots Serperior by using Iron Tail and Electro Ball at the same time. The second match, is like 30 seconds ling, we only see the end where Scraggy knocks out the other trainer's Pokemon. The 3rd match was against Stephan, which was te best of the league, which is depressing cause it probably matches the worst of the Sinnoh League, it also involves all of Ash's Pokemon knowing a new move we never saw them learn, and Stephan thinking a good strategy for his Zebstrika against Ground types is 4 normal type moves. And lastly... Cameron. I genuinely believe the Cameron fight is the worst one in the entire series. So at the start Hydreigon is wrecking Ash's team, being taken out by Pignite finally, after 2 of Ash's Pokemon were taken out. And at this point it seems fine, had a decent fight there, but then, this kid decides to send out his Ferrothorn against Ash's Pignite, ya know, with his x4 weakness and all. And you may be saying oh, the anime doesn't put as much weight into type advantages as the games to you, to which I would respond THE LESS THAN 30 SECONDS THAT FERROTHORN WAS IN THE BATTLE WOULD DISAGREE! And for the record this was 30 minute battle, so it was by no means short. So after that Cameron makes the only smart move he does all battle sending out his Samurott. He beats Pignite then Pikachu beats it (Oddly enough without a single electric attack connecting) This one isn't as bad as the rest, but it pretty much boils down to attack spamming, so it isn't very interesting either. THEN Cameron thinks the PERFECT counter for Ash's Pikachu is a Swanna, ya know, with a x4 weakness to electricity. Goes about as well as last time, except this time it takes a minute instead of 30 seconds. And that's a big problem, 3 of the 4 Pokemon of Cameron's that Ash beat go down in less than 5 minutes of this 30 minute battle. But the WORST part is after that, once Cameron sends out his 5th Pokemon, says it's his last, and they don't let him get a 6th, you know Ash lost. The anime isn't just gonna let Ash win because of an unfair advantage. And you know how long you gotta sit there watching already knowing Ash lost? 15 minutes. Literally half of the battle is Ash vs this kid's Riolu/Lucario. Oh and the episode ends in the middle of it, so you gotta wait a week in the middle of that 15 minutes too. So after watching possibly the worst part in the entire series, what do i think of Best Wishes? Same as before tbh, makes some HUGE mistakes that I don't blame people for finding unforgivable or disliking the whole series because of, but the mistakes are still the minority, and as someone who likes the inbetween episodes just as much as the gyms and big battles, I still think Unova is middle of the road over all. Worse than Sinnoh, Kalos, an Alola no doubt, but better than Kanto Johto and Hoenn. The Team Plasma Arc was very healing after that mess, and N is portrayed very well in the anime. It was especially interesting to see how he interacted with Ash, or Pokemon in roles other than battling for trainers. And last the Delacore Islands!~ There def shoulda been a Delacore League so Ash was doing something with that time, but they were still fun. and it's actually where Team Rocket regained their personality so that was fun!~ But anywho, onto the win rates~ Pokemon         Total Fights             Wins             Losses                        %   Pikachu                   23                        22                   1                          96% Pignite                    11                         9                    2                          82% Snivy                      10                         9                    1                          90% Unfezant                  7                          6                    1                          86% Charizard                 6                          6                    0                         100% Oshawott                 5                          2                    3                           40% Krookodile                2                         2                    0                          100% Scraggy                   1                         1                     0                          100% Leavanny                1                          0                     1                              0% Boldore                   1                         0                     1                               0% Total Fights: 67 Pseudo Legends                    Wins                    Ties Pignite            1                          0 Total Fights: 67 Pseudo Legends                Wins           Ties Pignite        1                0 This was the comeback season for a lot of Ash's Unova mons. First off, one interesting thing about the Unova League is, every single one of Ash's Pokemon fight exactly once in it, aside from Pikachu who battled twice, so despite how bad it went, no pokemon could get more than one loss from it. On top of that, aside from Pignite and Oshawott, that's the only place anyone lost! Another good thing that happened, is Team Rocket became beatable again. For most of Unova Team Rocket has either been off working on a big scheme, or ran away before their Pokemon got KOd and Ash's mons could get the win, but that changed once the Delacore Islands started. And on top of that, ever since Hoenn I've had a rule if Team Rocket only uses 2 Pokemon, and Ash and co only use 2, either 2 from Ash or 1 from Ash 1 from a companion, I'd count it as a Double Battle KO (giving both Pokemon 2 wins) rather than a group KO (giving both Pokemon 1 win), since if they're balancing the sides the witters are probably considering it a more serious fight and less of a gag fight. This is a VERY rare occurrence in Hoenn and Sinnoh, but is the norm in this last part of Unova, so that helped everyone's rates. Here's a shocker, Unova, has a record high win rate. Unfezant has a better win rate than any of Ash's previous regional birds. Pikachu proving he's not the same Pokemon he was at the start of the journey by tying with the  Pokemon Advanced season for his highest win rate in a single season. Also, while Pikachu's win rate did hit 88% mid DP, it dropped back down at the end. that means that DP is the only gen where Pikachu didn't bump his overall win rate a percent, while Best Wishes did. With 206 battles Unova barely beats out Kanto in battle count, but lower than everything else. And last but not least Charizard! Charizard was scammed out of a Pseudo win against Iris' Dragonite by the fight being cut short, but still had a good display otherwise!~ Not sure if I mentioned it but when I make the Graphs for each region any old Pokemon with less than 5 battles wouldn't be included, cause in Johto, Hoenn, and Sinnoh, there's at least one Pokemon with a win rate of 100% off of 1-3 battles and being in a hand full of episodes (usually 1). But I was rooting for Charizard to get those 5 battles since he's here for over half a season, not just an episode or 2. Just barely made it too, winning a double battle in the 2nd to last episode for win 5 and 6. Speaking of which, they were all wins, raising Charizard's overall win rate from 66% to 70%. But with that, we go from what's known as Ash's worst, to what's known as Ash's best, let's see if the win rates reflect the reputation (Certainly wasn't the case with Sinnoh vs Unova)

[smallgayblanket]

dude any and all questions of that "otp question meme" with host and edward would be cool cus i love ur opinion and thoughts on our ship bois ;;

Big fucking list of all the otp answers below the cut.

I love Ed x Host so much. 

1. Who is the most affectionate?

They both win out on that- doing it in special little ways- on the outside, it doesn’t always look like the exchange much, but when they’re alone together with its nothing but touches and adoring words

2.Big spoon/Little spoon?

Now your Hosty v much ends up the little spoon a lot- because of his need to be grounded and such it makes sense that Edward constantly tries to bundle up Host. Even in bed, Edward will cling around the others back, even if he is pressing his face into the others lower back. However sometimes the doc needs holding too, and Host knows just when those times are. Usually.

3. Most common argument?

I feel sleeping is probably the huge one, trying to get Host or Edward to make each other rest usually means dragging each other to bed, which means also giving up what they were doing. It’s not really a huge fuss. I think they also bicker about trying to take care of one another- Edward pushes himself an awful lot, but its because he refuses to watch Host struggle when trying to return the favor. 

4. Favorite non-sexual activity?

Oh, they have so many of those…I think their favourite though, is when they lay out in the garden, on something soft, and curled up while on their backs, sometimes hosts on Edwards’ chest and other times the other way around- Taking in the sounds of nature. At daytime, Edward will describe the clouds, and often listen to Host ramble about whatever occupies his mind. At night time, Edward gushes about the planets and the stars and Host smiles knowing all too well the excitement and enthusiasm on the others face. It always ends in soft kisses..occasionally they have a nap, other times they sleepily drag each other to bed, leaving the blanket balled at the door and cuddling into nice warm sheets.

5. Who is most likely to carry the other?

Oh.. Well Edward does do alot of Host carrying I feel so probs him- but when shit goes down Hosty is always ready to catch Edward if he fell.

6. What is their favorite feature of their partner’s?

In the main universe where Host cannot see I believe he treasures alot of feelable features of Edward..his soft hands, his squishy but strong frame. His hair between his fingers- his laughter. His kisses.

Edward, while loving every little bit, melts to Host’s voice, though he also appreciates Host’s face- bloody bandages and all, he comes to adore the softer expressions the other makes, and his gentle touches..Not to mention how he nearly always manages to soothe his nerves and put his anxieties or doubts at ease in some form. Host gives him a great amount of strength.. 

7. What’s the first thing that changes when they realize they have feelings for the other?

The touches! Obviously. Being blind and also being the person to end up often grounding Host touches change. where he would usually hold Hosts’s hand or rub his back, slowly it becomes caressing Host’s cheek or running fingers through his hair. Host comes to Edward a little more- he’s more subtle, yet at the same time very obvious, almost blunt, with his feelings. 

8. Nicknames? & if so, how did they originate?

I feel as though they don’t have many? or maybe I’m forgetting..but I know for fact Host has fondly and lovingly called Edward “Doctor” for multiple reasons/situations ;) 

Edward though.. it’s mostly ‘love’ I suppose, It’s nothing huge, he doesn’t think anything overly sweet or silly is really Hosts thing.. so ‘love’ or perhaps ‘My heart’ is about as sappy as he gets. 

9. Who worries the most?

Oh..I feel Edward worries more- simply because Host is always worrying about alot of other things- Edward however consistently has worried for his partner. 

10. Who remembers what the other one always orders at a restaurant?

Hosty kinda has the advantage with narrations, and Edward being more into food talks about it and mentions it more, so I think he remembers just slightly better than Edward. especially since Hosty doesn’t seem as caring about foods or consistency in orders. 

11. Who tops?

Personally. Host. It’s the only time he fully really gets to kinda..have control y’know? Edward also gets to relax and melt under precise and experienced fingers. Course Edward sometimes has the balls to please Host, but he’s usually quite the service bottom. 

12. Who initiates kisses?

Both!! There are certain moments in the doctors office where either one of them find it just perfect to sneak in some kisses. When Host needs grounding Edward will often seek his lips out to calm him down and bring him back. 

13. Who reaches for the other’s hand first?

Again both, and when Host is having an episode either one of them are just as likely to search for that firm grip. 

14. Who kisses the hardest?

Huh..No idea? they’re both pretty passionate tender guys..

15. Who wakes up first?

Because of nightmares n stuff, I think as much as Host may wake he’d be asleep longer- and with his doctor shifts, Edward often ‘needs’ to be up first. But weekends Host usually awakens first but he’ll likely be clung to by a tired doctor desperate to finally have a sleep in. 

16. Who wants to stay in bed just a little longer?

Both of them have their moments- Mostly Edward because of his shifts and such, but occasionally Host refuses that they do much because he doesn’t feel like anything but resting in warm arms. 

17 Who says I love you first?

I think Host does. Because he can’t just convey it with a look, and sometimes he feels touch just isn’t enough, he wants, needs and knows Edward deserves, to hear it aloud often. 

Who leaves little notes in the other’s one lunch? (Bonus: what does it usually say?)

Well, Edward kinda needs lunch done more than Host. I think Host would write alot of poetic things or warm compliments. Edward has kept nearly every single one..

Who tells their family/friends about their relationship first?

I think Edward would, to what family he has connections to, he’d try to tell someone he has someone amazing in his life.

What do their family/friends think of their relationship?

I think a lot of them kinda see it as odd and judge it, or they can see the utter love and support it heavily. 

Who is more likely to start dancing with the other?

Host. He’s got them dance feets and catches Edward off guard. 

Who cooks more/who is better at cooking?

Edward is a big foodie so he’s not horrible- and Host has a lot of time on his hands, however, its a bit of bitch when he can’t always see the results he’s looking for. So I think they’re kinda even..? But I think Host does it more out of niceness for tired Ed. totally not a feedism thing

Who comes up with cheesy pick-up lines?As a joke, I’m certain both of them have come up with some rubbish, but I don’t think they do so too often if only to make each other laugh before/during dates. 

Who whispers inappropriate things in the other’s ear during inappropriate times?

I think Host gets away with that one alot..Edwards just too easy to get flustered. 

Who needs more assurance?

They both need and deserve a lot of it- but I think Edward gets insecure more often then Host does about things..

What would be their theme song?

There’s too many and I can’t pick.

Who would sing to their child back to sleep?

Oh you damnwell know they both would.. Whoevers awake. thats who.

What do they do when they’re away from each other?

Hosty does all sorts of stuff tbh, still, tryna write, relax, tea drinking, mumbling to himself. 

Edward usually works..or is reading, or is eating, or is stuck n lonely in his office a little worried to come to Hosty. 

one headcanon about this OTP that breaks your heart

If one of them died the other would not be the same. 

one headcanon about this OTP that mends it

Soul mates. Their auras were meant for each other. 

[spaceorphan18]

Finding Kurt Hummel: The Rise and Fall of Sue Sylvester

Masterpost

6x10: The Rise and Fall of Sue Sylvester

And here we are at the infamous Sue episode panned by fans everywhere.  Is it really that bad?  Well I did have it as my least favorite episode of the series, (though after careful inspection, that title truly goes to the hot mess that is I Kissed a Girl).  However, believe it or not, I don’t think this is the /worst/ Glee ever put out. I do, though, think the context is what makes it so frustrating.  

Child Star and Other Missed Opportunities

Here’s the thing - when you write out season 6 on paper, I think the structure of what the writers were going for makes a lot more sense.  The main story that they were telling was getting the Glee club back in order, to be, in a way, an echo of what season 1 was.  And for the most part, I do think that structure works.  You have Rachel in the ‘Will’ spot as teacher, trying to get her life together while trying to inspire these young kids to be awesome, and like the end of the Front 13 - the ending there is Sectionals.  

All the other plot lines are secondary, including Rachel’s triumphant return to New York, which is the b-story of the entire season.  Kurt (and Blaine)’s reunion arc might be, eh, a distant 3rd? Maybe 4th after Will’s.  But that’s what makes these final three episodes (before the final two that make up, essentially, the series finale) so jarring.   We’ve been used to strong focus on Kurt and Blaine as secondary characters, and the kids have been the main focus since season 3.  Shifting everything back so that Will and Sue are the main characters, with Rachel as a secondary lead feels... off.  

The thing is -- I see what they were trying to do here.  After wrapping up the Klaine (and Brittana) arc - the last arcs that the ‘kid’ characters get (besides Rachel) we essentially have three extra episodes left.  One will be the competition episode.  One was the episode about the New Newbies which I don’t think was a bad thing - even if I think introducing a new character five episodes before the end was a dumb move.  But like the original kids, I think these new kids rightfully deserved an episode of their own.  And thus leaves one episode where they needed to do, well, something.  

And hence - we get Sue.  

Yeah - It would have been nice if they had spent an episode exploring Kurt and Blaine’s now married life, or what the hell are Mercedes, Artie, Tina, Brittany, Santana, Mike, etc, etc, etc, etc, doing with their lives.  But - in the minds of the glee writers... they already did that in various capacities over the previous episodes.  

But even more than that - for reasons I’ll never fully understand, unless it’s about how much they love Jane Lynch, they decided to focus an episode on Sue.  And while the episode isn’t the utter worst thing Glee ever did (honestly, go back and watch IKAG again...), trying to make emotional sense of a character you’ve reduced to a cartoon character, who breaks the fourth wall just... doesn’t work.  And on top of that, they don’t resolve anything, nor is it that interesting to watch.  Sue remains, well, Sue and nothing remotely happens.  

So yeah, this ‘filler’ episode was a way to stall time before the obligatory ending Sectionals episode - and they filled it up with a lot of what no one wanted, especially the precious few who were still watching.  And thus, we have the most frustrating and least satisfying episode of the entire series.  Thankfully, Kurt is barely in it. 

Burn the House Down

So, we open with the New New New Directions in typical Glee fashion, doing the hot single of the moment - idk even know the name of the song, though - Rather Be? Idk.  Anyway, Kurt and Blaine come sombering in, cause, plot dictates they be there for exposition. 

And we find out that Dalton has burned to the ground.  

So.  

Here’s the thing - there could have been an interesting story here for Blaine -- matching Rachel’s story about having to grow up and move on.  I mean, it’s kind of subtly and subtextually there. It is (another) reason Blaine is forced to move on and grow up.  

But.  Do you know why they burned Dalton to the ground (other than doing it probably out of spite)? Not for some kind of deeper level of symbolism.  Nope.  They did it so New Directions can meet their quota of having 12 members.  That stupid, fucking rule.  I realize that it’s now become a joke (as mentioned earlier in the Hurt Locker episodes).  But c’mon Glee.  It’s like you’re not even trying now.  

But also, like after most big Klaine events - do Kurt and Blaine get a moment to reflect on their newly marriage life? Nope.  Other than talking about a piano exploding in the next episode, Kurt and Blaine won’t share dialogue again until the series finale.  On top of that -- instead of getting to be happy newlyweds, they have Blaine upset because his surrogate home has burned down.  Thanks writers.  Thanks. 

However - there are two things I do like about this little moment.  A) the fact that Kurt is being a very comforting husband.  B) the fact that they are wearing their proposal colors.  Nice touch costume dept.  You get the gold star.  

In the next scene - we get the indoctrination of the Warblers into the New Directions.  And Kurt just nods his head along in all the appropriate places.  Not a whole lot to talk about -- other than now that we’ve got Will back in charge, Rachel and Kurt have faded into the background.  Is Kurt even teaching anything any more? No, not really - despite all the ‘conversations’ Kurt, Rachel, Will, and Blaine have off screen.  

Anyway - you know another reason Dalton was burned to ground? To service the Sue plot.  Yup.  God.  Luckily, though, I don’t really have to go into it. 

The Way Too Long Geraldo Segment

So, long story short, Sue’s hurt locker was found out and then she’s exposed on Geraldo, which does go on way, way to long.  Look, there are some funny moments and callbacks, like the finding of Sue’s Penthouse magazine and the quick return of Joe.  But it just becomes stale as it continues after the commercial break.  Also, though, Sue’s not going to actually face ramifications. I mean, she should really be in jail just on the hurt locker alone.  But this is Glee, where Will, Sue, and Rachel never have to really deal with the actions they make.  

So - Kurt’s bit is about the elevator.  Which is... fine.  It kind of feels hollow since they’re going to thank her in the finale, and she just sent them on a week long honeymoon.  But yeah - don’t kidnap people, guys.  Bad.  The best part of this is the look on Blaine’s face.  

  Unity

This scene was almost impossible to get a good still.  Oh well.  Anyway, a good twenty minutes of the episode later...

So, I should mention in the previous scene, the gang is all trying to help Rachel through her issues and trying to get her back to New York (or whatever).   It’s a little weird that Kurt is not here since he’s spent so much of his screen time playing emotional prop to Rachel Berry. but I guess I’m not complaining even if I think it’s weird? But we do get Sam calling NYADA a scam school, and info that Blaine was kicked out by Carmen herself - to which I say, why does anyone care about this school??  Whatever.  It is a funny little scene though. 

Anyway, back to this scene -- where the Warblers and the New Directions are arguing over costumes.  And the only real thing I get out of it (Kurt-wise) is that Kurt really hated wearing that uniform when he went there, lol.  (He did, though, it’s in season 2.)  

And I know there was some grumbling of this scene - why is Kurt taking New Directions’s side? Why is he not supporting Blaine and the Warblers - to which I say... the writers didn’t give a shit about that.  Seriously.  This scene is a) about comedy and b) presenting this argument that will be compromised in about ten minutes anyway.  It’s not at all any kind of reflection on Kurt or Blaine or their relationship.  And actually, I’m of half mind that the writers completely forgot that Kurt even went to Dalton himself.  

In the large scheme of Kurt related things - this scene barely registers, tbh.  **shrugs**

Hey, but costumes wins again - Kurt and Blaine are wearing each other’s colors!

Final Countdown

So, Sue and Will duke it out through music - like it’s always done, and we get confirmation -- all those fantasy performances? Were just that -- fantasies.  I kinda do like when the kids come in and are like - wtf??!?  Kurt tells Rachel that he hopes that the’ll never become that.  Oh y’all won’t, promise ;) Anyway - I love that the show comments that Will and Sue have lost it - like we haven’t known that since the end of season 1.  

So, uh, the next day? Will apologizes for being an idiot.  Okay, fine.  And then Rachel says that now -- if the glee club doesn’t win, all fine arts will be cut.  Because that makes a load of sense, c’mon writers, c’mon....  

Anyway - the one redeeming thing for this otherwise ridiculous little scene, is that Kurt’s a ball of optimism -- he inwardly reflects on all the crap that’s happened in his life and he turns it around saying that they’ll never give up on anything (to which Blaine looks at him adoringly).  And, I mean, it’s a subtle thing -- but I kinda love this.  Because here’s a kid who has been through hell and back and a lot of shitty things (even recently) and you know what? He’s fine.  He’s in a good place, he’s happy, he’s loved, he’s got a great support system, and a good attitude about life.  And, he’s got a great motto to go along with it -- It’s Got Bette Midler.  (lol)  

But I mean, let’s take a second and think about the fact that Kurt started his journey being that kid who gets thrown in dumpsters for being weird and gay and now, you know what? He’s fine.  He’s really, really, really fine.  :) 

Rise

So - here at the end, we see Blaine solving the absolute crisis of the episode and somehow he’s managed to make, like, twenty unity blazers overnight, combining the Dalton tradition with the McKinley colors.  And did it without Kurt knowing what he was up to because Kurt was totally surprised.  But it’s in a good way, Kurt’s incredibly proud that Blaine managed to solve this epic dilemma.  (I joke, but really, it’s sweet that Kurt’s, again, proud of his new husband).  

Meanwhile, we get the song Rise, written by Darren Criss -- and I’m kind of impressed with this song -- it manages to reference birds, Dalton burning down, the kids rising to the top, and the fall of Sue Sylvester all in one go.  Color me impressed, too.   (Btw, this is such a Darren-esque song, I can hear this in his voice even if I’ve never heard him actually sing it.) 

I’ll leave you with the some lyrics, which I’m sure you can work out their meaning on your own ;) 

Have you ever felt like you woke up (On the wrong side of your heart) Has it ever felt like it's broken (Like the world tore it apart) Have you felt so weak, You could hardly stand Like if you ever fell You could never tell If you'd ever get back up again I know it's hard to do, But I think you can make it, Cause I know we can take it Baby we will... Rise We are young we are the dreamers we will fly When the world will not believe us, We will rise above the ashes Before this whole life passes us by You and I, we will rise

[wereverine]

combining these because one of y’all absolute mad lads wanted me to do the whole thing,, these are from the unusual asks (found here) now on to the questions !!!

1: Do you ever wish you were someone else?

~ tbh yeah,, like I wanna be the person I am on the inside,, I want my outsides to mirror my insides and just let everyone know who I am no hiding or making excuses any more,, I want people to look at me and be inspired to be themselves,, to love themselves,, and to just love me (if that’s the kind of relationship that specific person has with me)

2: What is your full name?

~ Nikita “Magnus” Nickerson (Magnus is a placeholder middle name for now,, I like it but also I think I might wanna change it to something else I dunno yet)

3: How old are you and how old do you get mistaken for?

~ I’m 19 currently and I get mistaken for either 16 or 21/22 with no in between

4: Have you ever dyed your hair?

~ finally I can answer yes to a question like this !!! it was semi-perm but omg I dyed it teal and my mom’s gonna let me do a mystery color sometime soon (it’s a surprise what color :3)

5: What’s your eye color?

~ deep brown,, like deeeeeppppp brown omg ppl used to make fun of me because I had “black,, demon eyes” and I was really good at staring contests when I was younger

6: Your opinion about your body and how comfortable you are with it?

~ honestly it varies sometimes I’m super indifferent to the body I have and other times I’m super insecure and want to get rid of my body,, but I am doing better about it and I’m glad my body gets me from place to place

7: Do you have any tattoos or piercings?

~ I don’t currently have any tattoos (but watch tf out when I have money I have So many planned lol) and I’ve had my earlobes pierced since I was 6 months old and I’m planning to get some more piercings

8: What would you say is your best quality?

~ my ability to be there for ppl when they really need it,, like I drop stuff so quick when ppl indicate they need me

9: What are you really bad at?

~ math,, expressing my feelings,, talking about my feelings,, letting myself feel my feelings,, taking time for myself BEFORE I break down,, working myself into a breakdown,, asking for help

10: What talent do you wish you had?

~ honestly I wish I had the talent to actually know when to stop blaming myself

11: Are you nice to everyone?

~ nope,, but I try to be as polite as possible,, and I’ve gotten better about being nicer to people

12: What do you think about the most?

~ I mainly think about missed opportunities and how to let my friends know I care about them deeply and love them without weirding them out

13: Things you like/dislike about yourself?

~ hoo boy I’m gonna limit this to 3 things each otherwise we’d be here all day; likes: ability to listen,, creative,, intuitive; dislikes: bottling up emotions,, stubborn,, low self-esteem

14: What is your least favorite word?

~ moist

15: What is your favorite word?

~ petrichor

16: Are you more like your mom or your dad?

~ tbh,, I’m a fairly even mix,, but a lot of times I don’t act like either one of them

17: Would you ever smile at a stranger?

~ honestly,, I do that weird lil half smile that ppl get when another person is looking at them to do something lol

18: A reason you’ve lied to someone?

~ to stay out of trouble

19: Are you lying about anything right now?

~ the only thing I’m lying about is my emotional state when ppl ask how I’m doing

20: Have you kissed someone older than you?

~ romantically? nah,, but platonically? definitely

21: Do you believe in love at first sight?

~ not really,, not for me at least

22: Do you believe in soulmates?

~ of a sort,, like there are just some people that you vibe with in a very special way and it’s not always romantic either

23: Are looks important?

~ to me,, looks aren’t the most important thing,, I feel like personality goes beyond looks and can even enhance how your brain sees people

24: Opinion on relationship age differences?

~ after a certain amount of years I don’t particularly agree with them,, like if you have a 20+ year age gap I don’t really get it,, like if the ppl get together when one is like 20 and the other is like 40,, there’s such a gap in the understanding the 2 (or more) ppl will have,, but also it’s not my life and not really my business what grown adults do

25: Would you date someone off the internet?

~ I’d be willing to try but tbh it’s hard enough trying to date someone you met in person

26: Have you ever cried over a boy/girl?

~ yes,, many times

27: Have you ever wanted someone you couldn’t have?

~ yeah,, I had a crush on one of my friends while they were in a relationship and I felt so Bad,, like I didn’t want to ruin their relationship or lose their friendship so I just kept my mouth shut lol

28: Anyone you’re giving up on right now?

~ not really,, I’ve either given up on them a while ago or I still have a small shred of hope

29: Have you ever liked someone who your friends hated?

~ not really ??? (unless they just didn’t tell me lmao)

30: Have you ever like your best friend?

~ actually yeah I have skskdddkdk

31: How does someone win your heart?

~ honestly,, I get crushes ridiculously easy if you’re nice to me for a while and show affection in an exuberant way,, and that typically deepens until one day I’m sitting there looking at that person when they’re telling me something they are So excited over and they have stars in their eyes and my face goes soft and I look at them like they hung the sun,, moon,, and stars just for me and it hits me like a freight train that I might just love this person and it doesn’t have to be romantically or sexually,, I just feel for people I’m close to very deeply and it might be pathetically easy to win my heart but goddamnit I’m soft and love a lot ❤❤

32: What turns you on?

~ a lot of different things actually,, like sometimes if the person I like is physically bigger than me and they need me to stand or sit a certain way and they position me just the way they need,, that’s umm,, Hot af,, although I act mad at the manhandling lol,, and oh god if they’re Big and they pin me with an intense stare and like loom over me (maybe with me against the wall aksksk 😍),, also my neck is like Very sensitive like to the point that if you lightly blow against it I full body shudder,, y’all don’t know how distracting it is when your crush is hugging you and telling you something important but you can’t listen because every word is a puff of air against your neck so you just close your eyes and hope to god your subconscious is actually retaining the info (oh god I just had a Thought,, if someone pinned me to the wall by my throat and then kissed me breathless while pressing close enough my gasping brushes our chests together and then kissed my neck with either tenderness or ferocity I’d probably fucking self combust on the spot),, to go along with that I Love Love Love neck kisses so much (y’all probably know too much about that by now lol),, y’all I’m just really into mouths,, lips,, teeth,, tongues are all just very top teir,, oh fuck,, flexing muscles get to me so much,, like cross your arms in front of me and I won’t look at your eyes because mine will be glued to those fucking arms,, god fuck thigh riding is the dream here 😍😍,, okay I’m gonna stop myself here but it’s easy to turn me on sometimes and hard other times (that greyasexual life)

33: What turns you off?

~ okay let me honest here,, as much as I like tongues and all they can do ;),, I don’t really enjoy french kissing (maybe that’s my last ex’s fault,, his kisses were just so Wet) like I much prefer those open-mouthed kisses with minimal tongue,, and people who are rude and assholes for no reason are like huge turn-offs no matter how attractive they are,, also I hate those people who like desperately want to be doms but they just become like overbearing,, lowkey abusive,, and highly annoying,, tbh most of this list is gonna be shit my ex did because it was all so Unsexy in hindsight

34: Do you get jealous easily?

~ imo not really,, like I might be jealous after a while if the person like after telling me that we would be spending time together alone and they didn’t really follow through like bringing another person along and focusing on them the whole time or focusing on a stranger overly much but I don’t really like feeling jealous because I don’t like forcing myself on people if it seems they are happier doing what they’re doing and I can’t control people only myself so I typically try and redirect any jealous thoughts,, if its like a constant thing tho I’d definitely talk to that person

35: What is your definition of cheating?

~ well for starters,, I don’t consider hugging other people or spending time with them cheating,, I guess I would define cheating for me personally is if the person knowingly hides a deep emotional/physical relationship with another person,, like say I was dating a person and then I found out they were spilling their fears and dreams with another person and telling me nothing or barely anything I’d be a little upset,, but also you can’t expect your s/o to talk to you and only you,, everybody needs and deserves a support system,, or if I found out they were having sex or taking another person out on dates without my knowledge,, like if they just talked to me and explained everything before they started anything they might find I’m open to accommodating them

36: Do you forgive betrayal?

~ for me,, this varies from person to person,, but there comes a point no matter the person that I will drop their ass (that’s what I get for having 7 earth signs with 5 of them being Taurus in my birth chart)

37: Have you ever been cheated on?

~ yes

38: Have you ever cheated on someone?

~ to my knowledge,, no,, but everyone has different definitions of cheating,, but I abhor cheating so like god I hope not

39: How often do you listen to music?

~ every fucking day,, mainly all day every day no joke,, I spent my entire senior year of hs with at least one headphone in blasting music to keep myself calm (I’m baby from baby driver essentially),, music is everything to me truly

40: First concert you attended?

~ the first concert I ever attended was a Goody Grace concert (y’all check my boy out I love him) it was lovely and it really woke something up in me in regards to frantically trying to plan visits to concerts now lol

41: Last movie you watched?

~ honestly,, I’m pretty sure I’ve watched at least one movie after this one,, but the last movie I remember watching is Aquaman a few weeks ago

42: Favorite type of movie?

~ Action/Adventure or Sci-Fi

43: Is there something that happened in your past that you hate talking about?

~ I went through a period of self-harm for 9 years and I still struggle with craving those feelings a lot and when I relapse I feel like shit,, I’m better about talking about it through like texts or whatever it’s really hard for me to talk about it out loud,, I get really fucking choked up and kinda teary sometimes

44: Are you good at hiding your feelings?

~ for the most part,, yeah,, I’ve bottled up my feelings and problems for so long I’ve gotten quite good at not showing everything I’m feeling,, but lately,, I’ve been trying to go against that and show what I’m feeling when around people that care for me

45: Do you fall in love easily?

~ love? I don’t know about that but I get infatuated really easily,, I have a hard time identifying love and how it feels to me so I don’t realize I love someone until it smacks me in the face

46: Do you think people say “I love you” too much?

~ fuck no,, say I love you to the people you love damnit !!! I say I love you to my friends AND my family,, like omg sometimes I have to just shut up because I’m bursting with love for people,, and if I’m drunk I say I love you like every five seconds ❤😍😘

47: What’s your favorite holiday?

~ very basic of me,, but Halloween/All Hallow’s Eve,, it’s really one of the only widely celebrated holidays I like

48: Are you a forgiving person? Do you like being that way?

~ this depends on what the person is asking for forgiveness for,, but there comes a point where nothing they say or do could possibly get me to forgive them,, like sometimes you just have cut ppl off

49: Where’s the most magical place on earth?

~ (disney land/world ??? I’m jk lol) on god,, it’s sitting with someone you vibe with and sharing bits and pieces of your souls between each other (and if that devolves into being wrapped up in each other until the stars come out then that’s magical babey 😍)

50: What’s your “type”?

~ nice,, funny,, passionate,, ??? it’s surprisingly hard to put into words,, rest assured I intimately know I do have a type,, it’s just very broad lol

Okay,, that’s the 50 questions !!! thank you darlin’ much for asking me to do this lol,, sorry it took me a while,, love you ❤❤ !!!

[dbflahan0710]

If I was YG, I will...

Here’s to hopeless at the same time wishful thinking now that the reality is sinking into me now and that there’s no way a fan like me can reverse that. So... if I was YG and did not suddenly become so engrossed with looks over talent and be biased with his treatment of the trainees, and if I had the liberty to choose who I will debut and as many as I want, based on talent and debut-readiness, I will debut:

1. Yedam - A no brainer, tbh. Sometimes, I even joke how he must be tired of being a trainee already. If he were to debut, he should have long time ago. The fact that he learned the DNA choreo in a matter of less than an hour is, as Yoon and Hoon said, GENIUS. If there’s anyone who could maintain YG’s standards in this generation, it would be him.

2. Byounggon - Yeah... call me biased to Team A/silver boys but this boy DESERVES to debut. I was frustrated how minimally his ability was showcased in the show but every time he had the chance I saw that he gives it his all. For sure, his years of training manifests in his confidence in stage. Now, before you judge me saying the number of years do not equate to how good of an artist you are, I, for one, think that among all them he seems really comfortable performing. He just seems natural to me. No inhibitions at the same time no exaggerations. Just the right amount of swag but exudes a powerful aura. Other than that, and sadly it was not highlighted in the show, he’s a good leader. Being the mat hyung, he can definitely take responsibility just like he did with the Dumb and Dumber Team. I see him as a selfless leader who can make each member while keeping their chemistry with each other, not one outshining the other.

3. Hyunsuk - At first, I was like yeah sure you’re from Team A, just what’s with Team A that they’re esteemed so highly. I only became a fan later and earlier in the show I was still skeptical with Team A except maybe for Yedam since I’ve known him for years. It was not until his dance battle with Junghwan did I get to appreciate his pure talent and versatility. Initially, I knew he was a rapper (forever repeating “All my hittas gon’ riot, we gon’ mob” in my mind) but boy could this man dance. He could dance as if it were a language, he could convey the message very well. Still confused why he lost though, but knowing YG. That d*ckhead. Anyways, like Byounggon I really appreciated his leadership in their Boomerang performance. Until now, I can’t get over how they ranked third out of the four teams. That stage was FIRE. Performances like these are reminiscent of the intense ones back in WIN and Mix & Match. It really exhibited what a YG artist is capable of.

4. Seunghun - This boy went through enough. Just what is the purpose of delaying way too long his debut? He has stable and clean high notes even during intense-choreography songs. Character-wise, I see he is really sociable and entertaining. I always feel sad when he’s beating himself for not impressing YG again. His confidence has surely plummeted during the show, if it could still go down. Despite being severely criticized by YG for reasons God knows what, he still perseveres and I admire him about that.

5. Keita - First of, I gotta vent how I hate he’s a victim of evil editing and he was judged for wanting to pair up with Yedam in the 1:1 match. I mean, why can’t he when he vibes well with him personally and in a musical perspective. He’s well adapted with Korean, more so, with rapping. No one can convince me that’s not impressive. Just like Seunghun, YG really did him dirty when he was eliminated among the DNA team members. Among the trainees, he really seems passionate with performing. If YG is serious with pursuing with their expansion in Japan, Keita is worthy of becoming their pioneer artists. He is ready.

6. Yoonbin - At the start he was just this silent trainee I did not think he will become popular knowing the more popular Team A rappers and the hype younger rappers like Haruto and Junhyuk were getting. But as silent as he is, he’s just as impressive on stage. His rapping is always flawless. Still can’t get over his Woo Ah Hae perf with Yeongue. It seems they really performed performing then. Over anything, that is the most important thing for any artist.

7. Yoshinori - He’s a decent rapper. He specially impressed me in their Boomerang performance. I saw his determination to debut and that he was giving it his all since there was little opportunity in the past for him to show his talent in rapping.

8. Junkyu - I have always been skeptical about idols who have good looks on whether there’s more than meets the eye. Over anything, talent is what measures the value of an artist. Junkyu, on the other hand, proves that he’s not only a visual but a true artist. The color of his voice suits either hip-hop or pop song. Somehow Shaun Medez-ey. The most memorable Going Crazy chorus, for me and we can all agree, is Junkyu’s.

9. Mashiho - The same goes with Mashiho. He’s not just a face we could all ogle over. He’s also very capable of impressing a crowd with his stage presence. I just like his confidence overall.

10. Jihoon - At first, and now I feel so bad, when I saw him in Stray Kids I was so judgmental to think he’s too young to be included in the silver boys. Only to find out he’s only a year younger than Seunghun and presently he’s like in the hyung line among all the trainees. I’m just so amused at this huge twist. This baby face is actually a hyung! K enough of that. What I’m trying to say is he may seem like a big prankster but beneath this funny side I see the urgency in his eyes that he must finally debut this time since it’s already his second and probably last chance. When he was introduced to the Team B members, he kind of gave that stuck up vibe like “I’m a silver boy, I’m not even supposed to be teamed with these guys.” kinda vibe which was, again, so judgmental of me. But when they were planning for their group performance and the leader was Jyunhao then I saw how bad he wanted his group to do well. It was cool how he discussed the song choice seriously. He acknowledged the big competition that was Team A. In short, he knows what it takes to satisfy YG and he proved it during their performance of was it Go Go by BTS? Back then, I did not really notice him. Maybe only after the Ko Ko Bop perf with Jyunhao and upon watching their clips outside of the show. He’s very witty and possesses variety show material. Oh, and did I mention, how well he performed Boomerang despite his injury? You can’t stop me from talking about that Boomerang performance. As I said previously, I can’t stress enough how I felt for him every time he weeps after getting saved from each brink of elimination. He’s so precious and now I think he’s my most favorite trainee (hence this long essay). Again, such a huge twist!

Just like what other fans said, I agree that all trainees deserve to debut although not all NOW. So if I was YG and giving justice to the maturity of the older trainees and their developed fanbase I would debut those mentioned. On the other hand, if only he preserves and cares for the following younger ones, he should definitely debut them in the future:

1. Jeongwoo - I agree he has a captivating voice and he always performs flawlessly. He’s truly a jewel that YG discovered. With a few months of training he’s already so good at singing.

2. Haruto - What is HaJeongwoo without Haruto. He’s really good in rapping and his stage presence is no joke. Congrats to him though, he’s debuting early!

3. Yeongue - I gotta admit I judged him real bad just like Jihoon in his intro video seeing how he appealed with his eye smile. But boy, this boy can sing especially soulful songs. Ever since his Stay duet with Jeongwoo, I knew he’s like Yoonbin who proves himself with his pure talent. He never ceased to impress me. With his Woo Ah Hae duet with Yoonbin then Boomerang. It (dance song) was way out of his specialty but he still gave out a good performance and sadly he had to be eliminated from there. He’s one of the trainees I anticipate to see more performances from in the future.

4. Junhyuk - Okay, we all know what this baby is capable of. Since the beginning and as young as he is, he has amazing rapping skills both in Korean and in English. I can really say he’s the future of YG. I am touched how he was not all that affected with his elimination after his match with Hyunsuk. I saw he was still hopeful since he’s still young and there’s still so much ahead of him. I just hope he won’t lose that hope and motivation to perform since his talent would be such a waste to not be let out to the world. Noona is rooting for you, Junhyuk!

5. Jongseob - Like Junhyuk, I see him in the future group. I think he just needs to loosen up more and gain confidence. We all know how good he is at rapping.

6. Doyoung - A skilled dancer. That’s it.

7. Jaehyuk/Yunseo/Junghwan - I know they have it in them. They’re all really charming. It’s just a matter of pushing themselves more so they can become more natural in performing. 

I got lazy to type but, all in all, watching YGTB left so many good memories. I will miss the boys and their friendship and those who are not able to debut for now. 

[the-blue-double]

@jackjack-p Oh wow, that’s a lot! I can do that though!

1. What is your favorite pokemon?

Espeon! It was thanks to pokemon Colosseum and XD that I got attached to it, and now I love it a whole lot.

2. Favorite type

I always struggle with this question. I like psychic types a lot but I don’t know if I can call them my favorites. I also really like ice and ground types.

3. Favorite region?

Hoenn! Sapphire was my first pokemon game so I’m biased but I love hoenn’s variety in towns and cities, love the tropical setting, and I still wish we’d get a game with more focus on water routes again (was really hoping Alola would fulfill that wish, was a little disappointed when it didn’t)

4. Favorite gym leader?

By region: Either Erika or Janine Pryce Either Winona or Wallace Gardenia God I love all of the unova gym leaders I don’t even know Wulfric And as a bonus favorite trial captain has got to be either Ilima or Mina

5. Favorite villain team?

Plasmaaaa~

6. Offensive or status moves?

Offensive, usually (I’m experimenting more with status moves recently though)

8. Cute Pokemon or strong Pokemon?

Both! I’ll use anything that I like pretty much.

10. Monotype or multitype teams?

I go out of my way to avoid type overlap as much as I can most of the time, but I can appreciate a good monotype run (and I have one that’s technically been ongoing for years that I’ve never gotten back to finishing with normal types in Omega Ruby)

11. Legendaries or non-legendaries?

For the most part non legendaries, but occasionally I’ll incorporate a legendary on my team just to mix it up, and I have a few favorite legendaries.

12. Mew or Mewtwo?

Mew!

13. Mach bike or Acro bike?

Mach bike, acro bike is more of a utility thing. I appreciate them giving you both in the remakes though

14. Shiny pokemon or regular pokemon?

Depends on the Pokemon. Some shiny forms look amazing, and some… don’t.

15. Jessie or James?

James!

16. Best contest category? (Cute, smart, beautiful, tough, cool)

They’re all good, but I have fond memories of winning the cuteness contest master rank in emerald with my quagsire and getting it painted in the museum.

17. Best starter set? (Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, etc.)

Probably either Johto or Hoenn. There’s not one region where I don’t like one starter less than the other two, but my least favorites in those two regions are by the least compared to the others.

18. Best Elite Four?

Aesthetically Kalos wins easily, I love all of their designs, but I think the Sun and Moon Elite 4 are the best as characters. Unova deserves honorable mention as another favorite,

19. Best Professor?

Either Birch or Sycamore. I like Birch as a professor who goes out and does field work, and I love Sycamore just for how obviously smitten with Lysandre he is.

20. Best storyline?

Black and White, no contest. Gen 5 is the ultimate pokemon story. Sun and Moon made a strong attempt and are another favorite, but missed some of the magic gen 5 had, and then USUM butchered a lot of what good they did have going.

21. Best Rival?

Silver, an antagonistic rival with a well written story and a logical background explaining why he’s the way he is, and character growth over the course of the game.

22. Do you nickname your Pokemon?

All the ones that I’m using, definitely! Oddly, the one exception is PMD, I guess since they just call each other by species name anyways it feels weird for me to name any pokemon except the player character there.

24. How long have you been playing Pokemon?

Pretty sure pokemon were some of, if not the first, videogames that I ever played, so uh, a long time.

25. Do you collect cards or other Pokemon merch besides the games?

Not really tbh, not to say that I wouldn’t ever be interested in merch of my favorite pokemon, but I’ve never really seeked it out.

26. Do you tend to win battles?

In single player yeah, 50/50 in casual multiplayer, I’ve never tried playing competitively.

27. Do you watch the anime?

I used to as a kid. I tried to check out the darkrai movie at one point a little while back because the one before was the last one I saw before I pretty much stopped watching the anime and movies, but I didn’t end up watching the whole thing and I haven’t watched any since then.

28. Switch or DS?

Switch, the mainline games aren’t out yet for me to compare, but I like the switch a lot as a system and I’m just a little too old to have much DS nostalgia. GBA nostalgia on the other hand...

29. Are you an avid Daycare user?

Yep! I’ve seen some posts on here ragging on people who spend all their time breeding for IVs or whatever as not enjoying the game the right way before, and it kind of hurt a little because that’s one of my favorite post game activities. It’s relaxing zoning out and hatching eggs going for whatever your goal is, and super satisfying when you finally get what you’re looking for. And then you can wondertrade the rest and give other people pokemon they may appreciate and get cool new stuff yourself!

30. What are your expectations for the next main series game?

I don’t even know, a return to a more normal gym system I guess, but maybe tweaked compared to the old gyms->elite four formula, some new possibly gimmicky game mechanic in the vein of mega evolution and Z moves, 50/50 chance HMs return because gamefreak loves turning back the clock on innovation, hopefully a larger region to account for the Switch’s extra power. A region that’s absolutely dripping character and personality, as the last few consistently have, maybe some connection to Kalos? You can’t have Britain and France regions and just not do anything with that after all.

[kittyprincessofcats]

I’m back home! And caught up on sleep. Grenoble was an experience I don’t think I’ll ever forget. I’ll want to watch every figure skating competition in person from now on. It’s /so/ much better than just seeing it on TV!

I already made a post about my first day, so here’s my experiences/thoughts of saturday and sunday (aka the free skates and the gala):

- We didn’t watch the practices on saturday because it would have just been too much and we needed a break. So we arrived around midday for the Men’s free skate and there was already a HUGE line in front of the arena. Way longer than the day before. And at one point Vanessa James ran past the line and waved at everyone. The whole atmosphere was just amazing. So casual and yet so festive.

- The arena was way fuller for the free skate and everything was even more festive than the day before.

- You know those parts where they film the people in the audience? My dad and I ended up on camera twice. let’s hope that got cut out

- Watching the men’s free skate was an amazing experience. I’m happy that Nathan managed to redeem himself from the short and win the gold after all. Congrats on making the final! But I’m even more happy for Jason Brown. SO nice to see him finally do well this season! So nice to see him win a medal (and without quads!) He was absolutely amazing. I also love how even though he didn’t make the final, him winning silver here instead of Alexander Samarin is the reason Junhwan Cha got into the final. TCC teamwork!

- I don’t remember much about the Free Dance tbh, but the victory ceremony was fun! I don’t get why they were using those ugly, big plastic things instead of medals, though. The skaters already had to hold the flowers and watches and people usually only have two hands. Medals they can hang around their necks would have been more practical.

- And here was my biggest annoyance of the day: The organisation of the event was a bit of a chaos. For saturday, you had to buy a ticket for the afternoon (Men and Dance) and another for the evening (Ladies and Pairs). And instead of letting people stay inside and just checking their second ticket, they made everyone leave the arena and stand in line outside again. And if you wanted to watch the victory ceremonies until the end and quickly have dinner (since it was 6 pm), you had literally no time. We left the building after the men’s victory ceremony and the line was already huge again and they weren’t letting people back inside yet. So we ran to get some food before quickly getting back in line. At that point they seemed to realize they hadn’t thought this through and were letting people in quicker. Still, we barely made it back in time for the beginning of Stanislava’s performance. Some people behind us missed the first or first two ladies. There really should have been a way to organize that better. Either let people stay inside, or make the break between the two parts longer or something.

- The ladies. Oh god, I was nervous. I was /so/ nervous for the second group. Bradie was surprisingly cool to watch. I’m glad Marin finally managed two clean programs.

- Mai was absolutely beautiful and it only hit me after the whole thing was over how /close/ she came to making the final. I didn’t really expect her to qualify, but look at how close she came! Two points more and she would have been in. It’s a little frustrating now that I think about it. She’d have deserved it. But at least she still seemed super happy with her medal.

- Rika, my darling Rika <3. At first I was disappointed when she didn’t do the 3A3T, beacause I REALLY wanted to see it in person, but in retrospect, I understand. She knew she didn’t have to win to qualify for the final. She saw the others’ scores and knew she didn’t need another highscore. Making the final was more important than beating her personal best, so I understand why she played it safe. And it was enough to win, which I’m delighted about. Congrats on your second GP win and on making the final, darling, you deserve it.

- Zhenya </3. I was gutted about that one. I really wanted her in the final. But at the end of the day, the result was fair. There just happened to be many others in this GP series who were better. That being said, I still believe in her and wish her all the best. It’s not the end of the world. Ups and downs are a part of any athlete’s career, and as I said before, she’s going through a lot of changes right now, so the struggles are understandable. Maybe she’ll come back stronger for Russian Nationals and do well there. Or maybe she’ll struggle the whole season, and that’s okay, too. Give her time. Don’t jump to conclusions. And most importantly, be respectful and don’t hate on her.

- On a happier note, the Pairs’ Free was amazing and I’m SO happy for Vanessa and Morgan! And they’re such nice people, too. They look two victory laps after the VC and made sure to wave at all the fans and thank everyone. I really want them to win the GPF now.

- Speaking of nice people: Did you see Rika and Mai on the podium and after? alsjdflaksjdf CUTIES!!! That moment when they came back wrapped in flags because they were freezing... or when they hugged each other... my heart melted right then and there. The only thing I got annoyed about was the old photographer who made them stay for so long they couldn’t really do a victory lap. I was really thinking ‘come on, dude, you already have so many photos! just let them celebrate with their fans for a bit’. And they’re such sweethearts. Both of them were cold, but they still went over to the fans near the K&C, signed a buch of autographs and took selfies with fans. Unfortunately, I was sitting all the way on the other side of the rink. I considered running over there and asking for an autograph, but Rika and Mai already seemed they like they were cold, so I didn’t want to annoy them and make them stay even longer.

- A thing I forgot earlier: After the Ladies’ FS, I walked past Mie Hamada on my way to the toilet and she seemed super happy. I wonder why

- And finally, there was the gala on sunday, which was really nice. I’m glad we decided to stay for that after all. The minute of silence for Denis Ten was really moving. I’m glad Zhenya seemed to be in a good mood at the gala. I still love Rika’s dress. Jason’s EX was the best. I was disappointed they didn’t invite the Russian Power Rangers (Popova/ Mozgov) to the gala, though. That would have been cool to see.

- All in all, I had an amazing time in France, and I definitely want to go to a competition again next year. It’s an amazing experience and I highly recommend it.