#we are certainly getting into the real battles now aren't we

[haletostilinski]

Best Teen Wolf Ship: Round 4

[deanwinchestergf]

and why would an angel rescue me from hell? good things do happen dean. not in my experience. i'm not here to perch on your shoulder. i was getting too close to the humans in my charge. you. to everything there is a season. you made an exception for me. you're different. for what's worth, i would give anything not to have you do this. i learned my lesson while i was away, dean. i serve heaven, i don't serve men and i certainly don't serve you. but you guys aren't supposed to be there, you're not in this story. yeah, well, we're making it up as we go. i'm hunted, i rebelled and i did it all, all of it, for you. so what i'm thelma and you're louise and we're just gonna hold hands and sail off this cliff together? i need your help because you're the only one who'll help me. that's a pretty nice timing, cas. we had an appointment. what happened to you cas? you used to be human, or at least like one. but cas, you'll call right? if you get into real trouble? this is cas, guys. he has gone to the mat cut and bleeding for us so many freaking times, don't we owe him the benefit of the doubt at least? it sounds so simple when you say it like that, where were you when i needed to hear it? i was there, where were you? i'm doing this for you, dean. i'm doing this because of you. but we were family once, i would've died for you, i almost did a few times. i've lost lisa, i've lost ben and now i've lost sam. don't make me lose you too. cas, you child, why didn't you listen to me. you used to fight together, bestest of friends, actually. if you remember, then you know you did the best you could at the time. the very touch of you corrupts. when castiel first laid a hand on you in hell he was lost. i'd rather have you, cursed or not. well, i'll go with you. i prayed to you cas, every night. cas, we're getting out of here, we're going home. i mean you kept saying you didn't think it would work, did you not trust me? cas, it's me. we need you, i need you. i won't hurt dean. cause you didn't trust me? you didn't trust me. please, man, i need you here. nobody wants him here more than i do. you gave us an order, castiel, and we gave you our trust. don't lose it over one man. you really believe we three will be enough? we always have been. his true weakness is revealed. you draped yourself with the flag of heaven but ultimately, it was all about saving one human. i'm glad you're here, man. how are you, dean? and then you'll kill the angel, castiel. now that one, that i suspect would hurt something awful. and when you turn, everyone you know, everyone you love, they could be long dead. everyone except me. i'm not gonna send lucifer into battle inside cas, what if he doesn't make it? it's not an it, sam. it's cas. but you're always there, you know? i could go with you. you mean too much to me, to everything. i'm gonna cure you of your human weakness, same way i cured my own. it's a gift, you keep those. you mean we? yes, dumbass, we. we lost everything and now you're gonna bring him back. we got cas back, that's a pretty damn big win. just don't get dead again. it's good to hear your voice. so this is goodbye? but i swear if he did something to her, if she's- then you're dead to me. either get on board or walk away. i don't know what's god and what isn't, and it's driving me crazy. dean, you asked what about all of this is real. we are. you used trust me, give me the benefit of the doubt, now you can barely look at me. i think it's time for me to move on. you didn't deserve that. since when do we get what we deserve? maybe if you didn't just up and leave us. i left but you didn't stop me. i should've stopped you. you're my best friend but i just let you go. and i forgive you, of course i forgive you. i'm sorry it took me so long, i'm sorry it took me til now to say it. you did it cas. okay, cas, i need to say something. you don't have to say it, i heard your prayer. well, here's to being right. you know what every other version of you did after gripping him tight and raising him from perdition? they did what they were told, but not you.

[justdiptych]

The original Fallout had one group of raiders. That was the name the game map gave to them - 'Raiders' - but they were in fact known as the Khans. They were a relatively minor faction, being tied to quests in the first town the player is likely to visit, but we learn a lot about them in their brief appearance.

Many of the Khans are given names and dialogue, and will tell the player about their history - including how they came from the same place as the people of Shady Sands, Vault 15, and feel entitled to share in the town's wealth. Some see their raiding life as a way to claim control of the post-war world - ruling through strength and fear, believing that old ideas of morality died with the rest of the world. Others treat it as just another job - they support their group by trading, maintaining equipment, preparing food, and other everyday tasks.

In short, the Khans are a fully-realised community, as much a part of the story as any other. We learn that their brutal leader, Garl Death-Hand, took command after killing his abusive father. The player can kill him, or negotiate with him, or impress him with acts of cruelty, or even challenge his nihilistic views by convincing him that they're his father, back from the dead. Killing Garl and destroying his compound is treated as the best choice for the region as a whole, and is confirmed to have happened in the next game in the series, but it's certainly not the only option.

Fallout 2 has two groups of raiders. One - again marked 'Raiders' on the map - turn out not to be raiders at all, in that they're not attacking towns to steal their wealth. Instead, they're a mercenary company, hired by a disreputable businessman from one town (New Reno) on behalf of another town (Shady Sands again, now the capital of the New California Republic) to harass a third town (Vault City) to convince them that they need outside help in maintaining their defences. It's part of the game's major subplot about the three societies competing for control of northern California and western Nevada.

The other group are the New Khans, founded by Garl's son Darion after the original Khans' defeat. These Khans aren't nearly so fearsome as their predecessors - they mostly operate in secret, hiding behind a group of squatters who have moved into the ruins of Vault 15 and pretending to help them restore it for use. Darion is wracked with resentment over what happened to his father's crew and guilt for having survived, and his gang ultimately present little real threat to the outside world.

What I'm getting at here is that, in the world of Fallout as it existed in those early games, 'raiders' were not a major factor. There was one group who conducted raids as part of their regular economic activity, but only against particular communities - Shady Sands saw them as raiders, but to the Hub, they were just traders. Raiders only existed in a particular context - they had particular interests, beliefs and opportunities that would not always be possible or applicable.

Most of the games' conflict came not from the existence of raiders but from bilateral political and economic competition between groups with overlapping but not identical interests, which was reflected in their respective ideologies. We see this in Killian and Gizmo fighting to control the future of Junktown, and in the Master's attempt to reshape the world with the Unity while the different groups of New California try to retain their independence.

We particularly see it in Fallout 2, with its three-way battle for economic domination between the constitutional democracy of the New California Republic, the mafia-ruled narco-state of New Reno, and the elitist technocratic slave state of Vault City. Which of these groups continue to rule and expand, and which crumble, is what ultimately shapes the region's future - with control of Redding and its gold supply as the linchpin.

While the Enclave are the story's primary antagonists, they're chiefly characterised by their refusal to engage with this new socio-economic order - they believe that all outside authorities are illegitimate, and all outsiders non-human, and their only plan is to release a bioweapon into the atmosphere and kill literally everyone on Earth but themselves. The Enclave's defeat is necessary for New California's survival, but, otherwise, they change very little about how people live their lives. They're like Darion's New Khans on a larger scale - relics of a fallen order, robbed of their purpose, hiding in an old bunker and driven by nothing but resentment of having been left behind.

I might, in future, talk about the contrasting depiction of raiders in Fallouts 3, 4 and 76, and about New Vegas's use of raider and bandit groups like the Khans, the Legion, the Fiends and the White Legs. For now, I think I've made my point - that raiders are not a fact of life but a product of a particular place and time, and much less relevant to the universe of Fallout than other forms of competition and violence.

[biblicallyaccuratebrainrot]

Genuine

Gravity Falls x Male!Reader (platonic)

You opened up shop in Gravity Falls to sell your assortment of odd and strange items! It seems your genuine items of weird are overshadowed by the fake and plastic items of The Mystery Shack, sparking a competition between you and old man Stan Pines.

CW: Bickering, name-calling, not proof-read

"This is a hack!" "What a sham!" "It doesn't even look real!"

These words had an impact when you first opened up shop. Now, those words were the norm. You scoffed and rolled your eyes as the people insulted you, your products, and then left. You had the occasional pleasant interaction.

The occasional purchase. Those few times a regular supernatural believer came in to buy something were enough for you to want to keep the shop open. You didn't have employees, you didn't have a mortgage, and you didn't have a lot of expenses.

Most of all, there was one man you stayed open for. Mostly out of spite. "Stan Pines," you grumble at the old man in front of you in line. "Buying more glue and tape to put your fake product together?"

Stan turned around and stared with a blank look. "Do I know you from somewhere?"

"Seriously?" You scoff. "We've met several times over the past 30 years-- stop pretending you don't know me,"

"Oh!" Stan laughed. "You're the weirdo with the weirdo shop down weirdo lane,"

"Real mature," you comment sarcastically. "With a personality like that, it's no wonder people flock to your Mystery Hack,"

"Yeah, maybe you should take some notes," Stan taunted. "I could show you how to get actual customers-- but it'll cost ya... five-- no, ten bucks,"

"I may be the weirdo but you're demented,"

"Demented and making money,"

You nod. "I hate you,"

"Get in line," Stan chuckled. "You aren't the first and certainly won't be the last,"

"Can you say the same about making friends?"

Stan opened his mouth and furrowed his brows aggressively. "Next!" The cashier interrupted.

Stan grumbled and placed his items on the belt. You smirk and place your items behind his. Another battle won.

It wasn't a goal to put the Man of Mystery out of business. All you wanted was to do better than him, really. It didn't start out that way, though.

The door to your shop rung-- causing you to shoot up from your seat and crash into your counter to face the doors. You furrowed your brows and your eyes slowly looked down at the short figures that had entered.

"Uh? Are you kids lost? This isn't an arcade," you explain to the two.

"This is Mr. [Y/LN]'s Occult Shop, right?" The boy asked, looking around nervously.

You nod. "Yeah," you respond. "You two new? I never seen you around,"

"We're here for the summer!" The girl excitedly explained, a wild smile on her face. "Your shop is so cool!"

You chuckle. "Thanks,"

"We aren't really here to buy anything." The boy approached the counter, holding a tattered book. "We were wondering if you knew anything about this journal? I-- I found it in the woods and it's got a lot of weird stuff,"

He set the book on the counter. You stare at the emblem on the cover-- a six-fingered hand with a large '3' drawn in the centre. You hum and gently pick it up and examine it.

"I've never seen anything like it," you say. "It does document a lot of truth, it seems,"

You flipped through the pages, noting the familiar creatures. "You know about the weirdness in Gravity Falls?" The boy stared, wide-eyed.

You set the book down and laugh. "Look around, kid." You motion around your shop. "I sell most of the weirdness. And it's real! Unlike that junk at The Mystery Hack,"

"Hey!" The girl pulled herself up to the counter, a frown and furrowed brows now plastered to her face instead. "Our Grunkle runs that place!"

You squint. "Pines," you seethe. "Did your 'Grunkle' Stan Pines send you here? What is this, then, huh? You mockin' me?"

"No! No, no, no!" The boy waved his hands around. "I-I'm Dipper-- this is my sister, Mabel. Our Grunkle doesn't believe in any of this and I was really hoping you'd have answers,"

You continued your squinted stare. You placed your palms on the counter and released a deep sigh. "I'll lift the Pines Ban just for you two-- just this once!" You announced, holding a defiant finger up. "I can't tell you much about this journal. Dunno who wrote it or why-- I can tell you that most of the information in there is accurate,"

"We sort'a already found that out," Dipper explained.

"We fought gnomes!" Mabel exclaimed.

"Wow! You found out the hard way," you chuckled. "How did you find out about my shop? It's not really as grand as Stan's Mystery Shack,"

"Funny enough, it was Grunkle Stan who mentioned it," Dipper responded. "When we mentioned gnomes and weird Gravity Falls stuff, he told us we sounded as crazy as 'the weirdo who owns the weirdo shop down weirdo lane,'"

You groan. "That sounds about right,"

"How do you know our Grunkle Stan?" Mabel tilted her head as she asked.

You grumble. "It's a bit of a... story..."

○●○

I was fresh outta high school when I began collecting strange stuff. I hitched rides around the entire U.S., taking what I could find.

At first; it was just collecting-- no intention to sell at all. Then, I began trading. I had strange things that others wanted-- and, wouldn't you know it, they had something stranger I wanted.

I made all sorts of deals and trades. Finally, though, all my bags had been filled. I couldn't travel anymore with all that junk! So, I set up a small shop where I was; here! Gravity Falls, 1980. I believe I was... 20, at the time. It wasn't anything official-- I just needed to get rid of some of my things and make some money while I was at it. I fully intended on getting out the moment I could!

But then, I discovered the weirdness of Gravity Falls. It was everything someone like me could wish for! Not just strange items-- but strange beings as well! Strange places and strange people! I continued my trading within Gravity Falls and two years later, I officially opened up my shop!

That's when... Stanford Pines opened up his Murder Hut, or whatever he called it. He opened up his shop at the same time as mine! And he was getting more business than me! Oh! I was fuming! I-- I was, more rational back then, though.

Maybe, I was jumping to conclusions. Don't knock it till you try it! I went on over to that Shack and took a tour.

When I saw what he had, I couldn't help but ask; "Oh, you're running a tourist trap?"

He didn't let his facade drop for a second. "What? No! This is all real freaky stuff!" He responded joyfully. "I mean, just take a look at this!"

He held up a taxidermied badger body with a taxidermied mouse head sewn onto it. "Oh, right," I knew he didn't believe himself-- he knew I didn't believe him, either. "I-- I run my own shop about two miles from here. It's crazy, actually, we opened up on the same day!"

That's when he dropped his smile and the taxidermy amalgamation. "That occult shop? Here scopin' out the competition?" His cheer was gone from his voice. "Look, bub, I got important stuff to deal with. I don't need no occult freak here debunking all my work and takin' me outta business when I jus' got started,"

"I-- Oh, I don't intend on--,"

"--Get out,"

●○●

"And that's how I met Stan," you finished. "For the past 30 years, we've been competitors,"

"Wow," Dipper breathed out. "That... sounds exactly like how Grunkle Stan would react to your shop,"

"He's very unpleasant," you comment. "You guys aren't, though. Maybe there's hope for that old man if you guys stick around long enough,"

Mabel gave you a curious look when your words "that old man," came out of your mouth. "Well, how old are you?"

"Mabel!" Dipper harshly whispered.

"What! I'm just curious!"

You laugh. "You're bold, kid," you say, "I like it. I'm 52 this year,"

"Wow!" Mabel stared with wide eyes and mouth agape. "You look really young!"

"Kid, if you're trying get something free from me," you began, "it's working. You two are a pleasant change from ol' Gravity Falls. If you ever need anything for your weird adventures, you know where my shop is,"

"What sort of weird stuff do you sell here?" Dipper asked, peering around the shelves.

"Most of anything weird you can think of," you explain. "Live butterflies, demonic daggers, bidding boxes-- even got Dybbuk boxes,"

As Dipper and Mabel began to look around the shop, curious at the weird wonders your shelves held, the bell rang again at your door.

"Kids!" An unpleasant voice called out to the two. "What're ya doin' at this place?" Stan placed his hands on his hips while he stared down the kids.

"Ugh," you groan. "Mr. Pines, you know well enough you're not allowed within 100 feet of my shop!"

"My niece and nephew should know well enough they shouldn't be within 300 feet of this nut house!" Stan ushered the kids out before turning back to you. "Don't get these kids believin' a word of your nonsense! They shouldn't be anywhere near this,"

As he exited, you shouted. "It's not nonsense, Stan! I sell the real deals--!" The doors shut and you could now only watch the back of Stan lead Dipper and Mabel away from the shop. You clenched your fist and gritted your teeth. "He doesn't have a clue what he's saying,"

With their exit and your current frustrastions, you walked to your doors and locked them. You flipped your 'OPEN,' sign to instead display "CLOSED,' before pulling down your shutters and blocking the view of your shop.

"I liked him better when he acted sophisticated and smarter than everyone else,"

___

》 END

[utilitycaster]

What is the d20 meltdown about? 👀 If you don't mind getting into it

I literally don't know other than vague shit because I'm semi-avoiding spoilers. I'm making this nonrebloggable because we're in pure speculation country.

From what I have gathered, people are mad because I think the Bad Kids kill the Rat Grinders (another adventuring group that's been set up as their bitter, jealous rivals from the start) and they want...redemption or some shit? This is absurd to me like this party was set up as The Enemy from the start.

I am 4 episodes behind so I can't speak to this, and also I admittedly have a rather low opinion of the D20 fandom at large for a number of reasons despite being a big fan of D20 shows, but: I just by chance watched the scene that I would say counts as a point of no return for at least some the Rat Grinders. Like, actually some of the most villainous shit I've seen on this show amplified by how petty and small and purely fueled by jealousy the motivation is.

My guess as to why the D20 fandom is, per whispers on the wind/texting my brother who is caught up/talking to friends not avoiding spoilers, having a meltdown about it is because people have this idea of Brennan Lee Mulligan always making capitalism the BBEG, or occasionally religion or politics.

That is untrue. He does hate capitalism, and that is a theme in the (real-world-ish set) Unsleeping City, but ultimately the thing Brennan sees as the villain is a willingness to hurt, exploit, and dehumanize others for your own goals and benefit. Capitalism and religious corruption are two major examples of this, but in the end, the worst thing you can do is kill people out of a desire for power, or attention, or spite. What Brennan truly hates is what we on Tumblr call a tar pit.

Now. My much more pointed analysis? Kipperlily (and presumably the other Rat Grinders) are deeply entitled people jealous of the Bad Kids, who aren't as academically strong at times but who have leveled up through saving the world at least three times. How many people does killing rats so much that you hit the high levels of D&D save? or even help? Like congrats, you're level 14 from killing rats real good. These guys stopped the fucking Night Yorb. Of course they get the fame and glory, you entitled, self-absorbed little brats. Do you not understand how this fucking works? This is underscored by the fact that they've definitely murdered at least one of their own and almost certainly two (and a teacher to boot) at least in part to get at the Bad Kids.

And herein lies my feeling as to why the D20 fandom is really melting down. Because the loudest and most unpleasant contingent (which is probably why the server is, ultimately, shutting down all discussion channels) have always struck me as entitled self-absorbed little brats who demand precisely what they want when they want it (and also have the literary analysis skills on par with the 3/4ths of a stick of Monterey Jack cheese currently in my fridge) and they're seeing, in real time, that in this story, they're the villain.

But: I haven't seen the next 4 episodes and I could be getting the details of the plot wrong (not the first 15 episodes though, and I do not think the Rat Grinders are going to make the world's best Heel-Face turn in 3-4 episodes, and at this point they're so clearly the villains that to deny it is to admit truly earth-shattering levels of stupidity) and so: nonrebloggable. I'm hoping to catch up this weekend though on both the show and the hot goss, and if I'm right this will become rebloggable.

ETA: I am caught up making this rebloggable but I'm actually more confused, because as my posts indicated this was not even like, edgy. Like I assumed maybe there was a twist where the Rat Grinders appeared to regret their actions or something but failed to do anything about it, making this a little bittersweet? but no there literally was nothing, they went into the final battle still like hell yeah we're going to be the living worst.

[stressedbisexualtm]

[< - LOTS OF WORDS - >]

trafficblr, hear me out on this:

We've all seen the idea that the life series are seasons, right? I normally see it like this: third life - winter, last life - spring, double life - summer, limited life - fall/autumn. But I think of it more like this: third life - fall, last life - winter, double life - spring, limited life - summer. Listen:

I think it would be more interesting (and true to the series) if third life was fall. The main reason people say third life is winter is of course because of the "RED WINTER IS COMING!" line, but the truth is, red winter was on its way. Red winter was coming, but first comes fall. People are more tight-knit in third life, always staying true to their real, solid, established alliance, and we see this all the way until the end of the series. It reminds me of fall, but I can't explain how. I feel like the visuals of the season match up, with the lighter greens and browns that cover most of the server, the stone of the Crastle and Dogwarts, and the tans and yellows of the desert. People are getting nervous, scared, and towards the end, more bloodthirsty than before. As the final battle of dogwarts begins, you can see the first snows of a very, very painful winter. Grian, being the winner, shares some of these traits. He's quick to judge and slow to make allies, unsure of who might betray who next. He does keep his closest ally with him until the very end, where they decide theyre going to win together no matter what. Grian, at the end, is tired of the nervousness and painful loyalty that comes with autumn. He is ready for winter to begin.

And so we move on to last life. Here, at last, is our red winter. Death is rampant and vicious here, our first red name appearing in only episode 2. Everyone is cold this season- when you're red, you're out. There are no true alliances or friends, though people tend to fall into patterns when they need to. The reds are much more bloodthirsty this season, being unable to contain themselves around anyone else (though we see our one or two exceptions). So by the time the canary falls, this season's fate is sealed in a bloodbath. No one who has made it this far is arguing that winter this year is red. This season was much more muted visually, the world being covered in dark greens, browns, and greys, as well as the snow covering a decent portion of the map (again, playing into the winter theme). Scott started the series warm, and while he never did get that bitter edge winter has, he was certainly ready to grow outward again into spring.

Double life. A brand new season, full of hope and expectancy, though that fades as time goes on (like things that only bloom in spring). It's new, it's exciting, and for some, it's full of love (as spring is typically seen). Things get intense, but there's always this air of excited mystery. Everyone has played at least one game before, so they know what to expect. Or they think they do, because at every turn there is something new. Secret soulmates? Why not! Leaving your soulmate and choosing someone else? Wonderful! FISHING A WARDEN TO DEATH?! Well, anything for the content.... Pearl, to me, also fits her season. She starts out excited to meet her soulmate, albeit a bit nervous, but she's turned away almost immediately. And, well, who could blame her if she cried? (After all, 'april showers bring may flowers', or whatever it was) She picks herself back up (a plant budding after its flower falls off) and makes it alone. She makes it to summer. And if, in the end, she learned how to plant her seeds, who was going to stop her?

And, well, limited life. Alliances, while having establishing members, are flimsy and easily remade. Everyone is wild, and spontaneous, and most people aren't really gunning to win anymore. There are go-getters, and nobody likes losing (they'd like winning even less..), but no one is playing as seriously as they were before. Everyone has played at least 2 games by now, most have played 3, and this time around dying doesn't even cost you a whole life! It only costs you 30 minutes, which out of 24 hours? Basically nothing until you hit red. Alliances shift with the wind, and not everyone is quite playing by the rules. In the end, Martyn wins. Martyn is... a wild card. He could be like summer, if he wanted to. He could be like spring, or fall, or winter. He's a traveler, a shifter, a knight, anything he needs to be. And if that doesn't go with the fluidity and changeability of this season, then I don't know who else could have won.

[whohasfourthumbsand]

hey kiddo - it's Slipshod, from MSMC. look, I don't usually reach out to folks like this, but... we gotta have a talk about GRAE. the more I learn about them, the less comfortable I feel with you trusting him as much as you do. I get it - you love your vlad (and GRAE) dearly, but there's something about 'em that just doesn't sit right with me

I hope you can forgive me for this, but I did a little snooping into your records from IPS-N, and what I found there was... questionable, to say the least. apparently you and GRAE (the records call him "TR-GRAE", which is either his full designation or an error) were taken into custody in the aftermath of a planetary collapse - does the name Leicester ring a bell at all? it's not one I'm familiar with, but then again, I can't imagine many people do know about it, if that caliber of disaster befell it

according to the files, you were 10 at the time you were taken in. this strikes me as a HUGE red flag - that's awful young for anyone to be messing around with an NHP, especially when the records say you were already treating GRAE like family when you got picked up by IPS-N. I don't know how long you two had been interacting for prior to being found, but - I don't know. this all just rubs me entirely the wrong way. the records don't say if GRAE was in cascade or not when you two were found, only that it was - direct quote here - "stable and fully compliant with IPS-N" when you were brought in

also, on top of all of this - GRAE has never once spoken publicly on here. not once. you say he's been really quiet lately, but to us, he's never spoken at all. it's like - oh, I don't know - he's in your head or something. it's really uncanny; if the records hadn't validated him as being real, I'd have thought you were making him up - er, no offense to GRAE. (or you, for that matter)

anyways, the reason I bring all of this up - I really don't think it's a smart idea for you to try and check your mech's serial number. the more I read about you and GRAE, the more it feels like there's a massive piece of the puzzle missing - and that you might not know as much as you think you do about not just GRAE, but your own history as well

old NHPs are on an entirely different level of consciousness compared to our modern ones (not to mention extremely dangerous), and if you really did find GRAE hidden down there in the depths of your planet prior to IPS-N getting involved, then there's almost certainly a history there that you haven't been told about. the choice is ultimately up to you, and if you think you can live with the consequences of whatever you find, be my guest. all I ask is that you at least think about it first

stay safe out there, kiddo. please.

-- Slipshod

+ ...it feels like.. such a stupid idea now.

+ It's such a trivial thought- checking your mech's serial number, I mean. You take a peek into an inanimate object's history, read a few dated files, find a photograph or two of battles you didn't even know happened- and then you close the tab, either burdened with the discomfort of knowing your hands rest where some ancient angatonist's did- or content, satiated by the mundanity of your discoveries. This isn't the sort of thing that life-changing discoveries are supposed to come from, right?- You aren't- you aren't supposed to question everything over some outdated, poorly-kept book-keeping-

+ ..I remember Leicester. I was born there. I had- a family, there. A real one, not that "found family" rhetoric some squads proclaim, or a test tube, or a printer. I remember what the air smelled like, the color of the sunrise, the crunch of the gravel underfoot. I wasn't ten when Leicester collapsed. I was seven. + Carina was our opportunity to escape. To start anew. + GRAE has- always been here, with me. Always. I cannot remember a single part of my life where he hasn't been there, present, comforting, reassuring, infallible- And yet I know he wasn't, logically he couldn't have been, not until the city came down.

+ I won't check my serial number. + I know better; I know some crises are better saved for rainy days.

+ I don't know enough about NHP to make heads or tails of any of what you're saying- My default response to troubles like this is to ask GRAE for advice or guidance, but he- he's never told me anything I didn't already know. I bring him with me everywhere, we talk constantly, I-- + I haven't felt lonely since we met. + Isn't that a good thing?

[ewingstan]

So there's a few ways we've seen the public hostility to capes be framed.

There's complaint 1, the general "all parahumans are more trouble than they're worth," which has been something that's at least been brewing since Worm (a lot of Cauldron and the PRT's activities being focused on tamping down on this perception). A fairly common trope in superhero media. You see it everything from the X-Men to the Civil War comic event. Hell, its popular enough that the last two comics I've read (Chainsaw Man and Clown Corps), which are pretty much as different as you can be while still being in the same vague genre and medium, both had "Villains try to get everyone to fear superpeople indiscrimantly" plots.

But then there's the more specific complaint 2: "cape heroes aren't justifying their presence because they directly cause violence without lowering the amount of crime and violence overall." Now, Capricorn is obviously framing it in these terms because he's trying to appeal to the police he's talking to; he knows that's a complaint made about cops and he wants to make them feel like they're on the same side fighting the same battles (and in turn kinda claiming that both capes and cops are "against" a public who criticizes them). But I'd also say that the text itself wants us to consider complaint 2. Worm basically endorses it; a lot of the book reinforces the claim that capes/cops are integral to how a system gives rise to villains/criminals and largely fails to deal with such problems in a useful manner.

The question is whether Ward is best interpreted as making the opposite claim, endorsing Tristan's argument against complaint 2. Its certainly sympathetic to the frustrations of the "don't tell us we didn't make a difference when you weren't there to see" crowd—it almost has to be, given our narrator. But whereas in some parts I read Ward as saying "yeah its frustrating, but they're right, you aren't making a real difference and are part of the problem" other times it does portray Breakthrough making real changes for the better that couldn't have been accomplished other ways by fighting ontologically evil enemies (see: Teacher).

Again, kinda hard to do a story from this POV and completely avoid that. Disco Elyisum probably does the best job of it and I've still seen people argue that it doesn't avoid it entirely (still unsure where I land on that). Zdarsky's Daredevil (man I need to catch up on that) tries to avoid it in a way that doesn't really cohere; largely because it tries to be anti-prison while still framing characters like Spider-Man as paragons. Though in that at least it kinda works with Matt Murdock's whole pattern of righteous violence followed by intense doubt and guilt followed by newly directed righteous violence. I guess I'll have to keep reading to see how things ultimately land.

[averydavery]

‼️📣 FX'S SHOGUN RENEWED FOR SEASONS 2 & 3 ‼️📣

You know what that means... time for some fan theories!

This should go without saying but SPOILERS BELOW! If you aren't caught up don't read!

For those who don't know, FX's Shōgun follows James Clavell's original novel pretty closely with some deviations, but it starts at the beginning of the novel and ends at the end of it. This leaves some major wiggle room for the continuation of the series and the writers certainly have their work cut out for them if they plan on going on for two more seasons. However, as definite the ending is, there are some loose ends to deal with and at least two directions they can head with it.

Future Plot Theories

The two ways I believe the story will go- IF THEY DECIDE TO NOT ADAPT CLAVELL'S OTHER NOVELS WHICH I HAVEN'T READ AND CONTINUE THIS PLOT- and they're pretty easy to see: either a prequel season or a season that continues the story. Let's start with the former.

At the end of S1 Mariko, one of the protagonists of the story, dies a martyr to enact Torinaga's plan to win over Ochiba's support for the incoming war. Mariko is played by popular drama actress Anna Sawai, which leads me to believe that the writers would want her character to return- if only for the sake of keeping one of their stars. While only Hiroyuki Sanada (Toranaga's actor) has reportedly signed on for the future seasons, if this is the case and Sawai signs on we can expect a prequel season episodes that explore the characters' pasts prior to the events of the first season. For Mariko, that'd likely be a look into her family and their history. As for Toranaga, a look at his rise to power should be expected and maybe a story about the his divide between him and his brother. On a grander scale, this perhaps could mean looking at life before the power vacuum that was left after the death of the previous leader and at how the Portuguese made their way into Japanese society.

Why I think this isn't all that likely: I'm starting with this theory because I think it's the least likely of the two. The main reason being how S1 ended. The first season ends with the Battle of Sekigahara, probably the most infamous battles in Medieval Japanese history. With such a bang, it has really left the viewer wanting and wishing for more, since war = action. This glimpse at the fate of the war is brief and spoils that Toranaga's faction will win overwhelmingly with the support of Ochiba and the heir's army, regardless it also leaves the audience wondering what life in Japan will be like following the decisive battle. Therefore, if we get any "prequel content" it'll likely be in the form of flashbacks or a flashback episode. Although, backstories and a prequel season could be in store for S3, just not S2.

Alright, now with that outta the way- my real theory for season 2.

As I said before, it's clear that we'll be looking at the Battle of Sekigahara and its consequences. However with major characters like Mariko, Yabushige, and John either dead or sidelined... it's to be believed that this season will be Toranaga-centric. This likely will be a season answering "what now?" since we already know Toranaga wins and seizes power. Toranaga's most loyal advisor committed seppuku, so it could tackle the issue of where he can find who to trust and how he'll deal with the former regents and the church. More political intrigue blah blah blah... but if I had to guess (and this is me hoping here): the biggest addition to the plot would be adding in Miyamoto Musashi as a major character. (I will talk about this at length under the "new characters" heading).

Returning Characters (Besides Toranaga since I yapped enough about him)

John Blackthorne

Probably one of the bigger characters who has an unknown future of him is the anjin himself! All we know of John is his remorse for Mariko after her passing and that eventually he ends up back in England as an old man. He's promised his ship to sail again and either complete his mission or return home. Based on his change as a character, I believe he does not complete his mission. But it is possible that he stays for just a bit longer to see what the future will hold under Toranaga's rule. However, since a literal war breaks out I doubt he'll stay for that. Perhaps he leaves and returns? I really believe that John will be fizzled out since his character arc has concluded.

Father Martin & The Rest of The Portuguese

Similar to John, now that Mariko is gone I doubt Father Martin will reappear and if he does it won't be for long- likely to confide in John as they both lost someone they cared for but that moment kind of already happened. However, the more important thing that may happen if they take a more historical stance with this, will be the closure of Japan's ports for another 200 years, effectively cutting off trade and influence from the Portuguese. However, Toranaga is established as a more "open-minded" ruler so I doubt that he will take this stance as well? It remains to be seen.

Kiko, Gin, & The Courtesans

A simple theory but one that may prove important is that Gin's tea house will become a massive source of income and power in Edo and I think she'll end up being a close ally to Toranaga as his influence spreads. I can see her and the courtesans establishing a sort of information and spy trade within the city.

The Regents

This is probably the area where I am most clueless as to what they plan to do with this. I'm thinking Toranaga might just "buy them out" or give them their regions as long as they pledge loyalty to his up and coming empire. There likely will be some in-fighting, but seeing as they ended up siding with Toranaga at the end of S1, I think there just kinda pushovers...

BUTTTTTTTTTTTTTT I do think a whole faction will spring up either stragglers from Ishido's army or something else, there has got to be some kind of threat to Toranaga's reign... I just have no idea what that could be 😭

New Characters

Miyamoto Musashi

Probably the most infamous ronin of all time and a character/historical figure I am way too educated about, Musashi makes his name at the Battle of Sekigahara and is an incredibly popular archetype from Japanese history that's used a ton in fiction- hell, Hiroyuki Sanada has PLAYED Miyamoto Musashi in HBO's Westworld! So adding him would even be a bit of a nod to Sanada's past roles.

Regardless, since a lot of the major character's plot lines have seemed to tie up nicely by the end of S1, introducing a new major character with a lot of "lore" is likely what the writers are looking for. For those unfamiliar, Musashi is regarded as one of, if not the, greatest samurai in history. Known for his unique two-handed swordfighting style and how he was undefeated in ~61 duels, Musashi actually fought for the losing clan in the Battle of Sekigahara as a samurai-for-hire which rendered him a ronin looking to better himself solely in the way of the sword. Musashi also was a talented artist and writer, authoring the "Book of Five Rings" which was his knowledge on the ways of war and the blade.

The character of Musashi was a legend for centuries, however his first instance of being a folklore character was in Eiji Yoshikawa's aptly titled book series Musashi (1939) which cemented him into the popular zeitgeist and still is one of the most popular book series to date. There have been hundreds of adaptations of the series and stories with Musashi in it from shows to video games, with the most praised version (and my favorite manga ever...) being Takehiko Inoue's manga Vagabond.

However, its for this reason that I believe if Musashi does get introduced his story will be greatly changed from the fictional myth to something that will fit into the context of Toranaga's and the greater plot of Shōgun at large. This could mean making him closer to the historical figure, more of a disgruntled sage than a hot head. If this is the case then I think he will be the new advisor to Toranaga that I mentioned potentially being of importance to the plot earlier. Historically, after his rise to fame, Musashi has advised Tokugawa Ieyasu, the actual shōgun who won the Battle of Sekigahara and who Toranaga is modeled after. So it would make some sense to put him in this role. Also when I go over Kojiro, there's another bit with that kinda fits the tone of Shōgun.

Sasaki Kojiro

Given that Musashi is introduced as a new character, they would have to include Kojiro, his "rival".

In terms of historical fact, Kojiro was kinda of the shit while Musashi was still a rising star and Musashi's victory in a duel against him was what cemented his place in history as a legend. Yet, the way he killed Kojiro was incredibly undignified for someone of his status and just the kind of insane death we've already seen in S1 of Shōgun. A la the shocking death of Toranaga's son Nagakado, (WARNING: GRAPHIC) Musashi rows up to Gānryu island late to their duel and after sharpening his oar into a staff, he slams it atop the skull of Kojiro and affectively bludgeons him to death. That is the end of the great samurai Sasaki Kojiro.

EDIT: I didn’t look over this at all for typos and my autocorrect changed “Sasaki” to Salami 💀

If a more historically accurate Musashi does get included in the next season the writers would be remiss in not including this conclusion to their duel. As violent as it may be.

But that's just a theory... a film theory 💀

[dia-the-fangirl]

Disney doesn't lie. It's okay to adapt fairy tales. That's what they do. and they certainly have the characters far more agency and personality than the Grimms or Perrault did, which I think is nice

yes, but you have to admit that several Disney fairy tale movies are about as accurate to the original versions as the Percy Jackson movies are accurate to the books. I know that they aren't copyrighted anymore, but the original tales teach better lessons than the Disney movies. That's all I was getting at. extremely long book quote under the cut for more thoughts

"Once upon a time. These are the most magical words our world has ever known and the gateway into the greatest stories ever told. They're an immediate calling to anyone who hears them - a. calling into a world where everyone is welcome and anything can happen. Mice can become men, maids can become princesses, and they can teach valuable lessons in the process.

"Fairy tales are much more than silly bedtime stories. The solution to almost every problem imaginable can be found in the outcome of a fairy tale. Fairy tales are life lessons disguised with colorful characters and situations.

"'The Boy Who Cried Wolf' teaches us the value of a good reputation and the power of honesty. 'Cinderella' shows us the rewards of having a good heart. 'The Ugly Duckling' teaches us the meaning of inner beauty.

"Sadly, these timeless tales are no longer relevant in our society. We have traded their brilliant teachings for small-minded entertainment like television and video games. Parents now let obnoxious cartoons and violent movies influence their children.

"The only exposure to the tales some children acquire are versions bastardized by film companies. Fairy tale 'adaptations' are usually stripped of every moral and lesson the stories were originally intended to teach, and replaced with singing and dancing forest animals. I recently read that films are being created depicting Cinderella as a struggling hip-hop singer and Sleeping Beauty as a warrior princess battling zombies!

"I wonder if the world would be a different place if everyone knew these tales in the way the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen intended them to be known. I wonder if people would learn from the Little Mermaid's heartbreak when she dies at the end of her real story. I wonder if there would be so many kidnappings if children were shown the true dangers Little Red Riding Hood faced. I wonder if delinquents would be so inclined to misbehave if they knew about the consequences Goldilocks caused for herself with the Three Bears.

"There is so much to learn and prevent for our futures if we just open our eyes to past teachings. Perhaps if we embraced fairy tales as much as we could, it would. be much easier to find our own happily-ever-afters."

-Mrs. Peters, The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer

[yutaholic]

Thank you for even making that post because I honestly feel like I’m going to explode!! Championing every issue is EXHAUSTING. I have such empathy fatigue. Bombardment of “rules”, behavioral guidelines, services, companies, networks + food brands & PEOPLE to boycott ALL THE TIME. Fandom is space many of us come to unplug from reality…it’s certainly my hyperfixation & ppl be like “well then get another one because you shouldn’t support–” IT DOESN’T WORK LIKE THAT. Fuck. I can’t take it anymore. Calls to action being in EVERY single place have weakened my mental state even more than it was before which was already on “pending disability” level of severe & now I’m just. burned t-absolute-f out….at everything!! I can literally FEEL myself unraveling. Kpop stans & their toxic activism can go to hell. They’re so worried about making sure to condemn others for “not doing enough” or being bad people, that they don’t even realize their actions are making them into bad people. This shit takes a toll on mental health, there is science behind this, it is real and what happens to human beings when inundated with constant terrible news, and it’s not just being ~too privileged to care~ but these performative mfs have no concept of blacklisting anymore and just want to assume the absolute worst about someone, call them names & wish harm on folks who are at the end of their ropes! It’s maddening! So even if compassion fatigue isn’t why you didn’t go out of your way to Denounce and Drag™️ him (bc you totally have the right to simply not want to do that on a fanfic blog!) I’m just glad someone else stated that this is supposed to be an ESCAPE. fuck.

Baby, burnout will fuck you up. Don't do that to yourself. Take the time you need and recoup. Life is a constant war and you can afford to lose a battle here and there to focus on your own health and well-being. Getting yourself back into a good place mentally will be a huge win. We both know the ppl obsessed with performative activism aren't doing anything from a place of compassion. The real ones are out there making change, not sending people death threats online from the comfort and safety of their mommy's basement.

When I posted the pic of NCT Dream and Big Time Rush, I wrote in the tags how BTR was something my sister and I loved and bonded over. We watched the show even though it was obviously a kids show and we were both adults. It was just something that gave us joy. My sister passed away years ago and anything BTR-related will make me teary because I think about how much we laughed together over it.

So the first thing I get are messages over how problematic BTR is, that I should delete the post or I'm pro-genocide if I don't dislike them. Ngl that made me so upset because I got a bunch of faceless people trying to taint some precious memories of me and my sister. If they came at me trying to educate me on things I didn't know that would be different, but it's straight to judgment and hatred toward me over something I posted that was totally innocent.

Meanwhile I get criticized for posting about a kpop group instead of reblogging every call to action post. I donate my money to these causes, but I don't post about it because I don't need my ass kissed for doing what I know to be right. I am 1000% sure the anons in my inbox that try to police me have never given a dime to anything, but are policing people's blogs for not reblogging posts or talking about it more.

I feel bad that I haven't been very active on here this year so I try to come on when I have some free time to interact with you guys. I make a silly post about Doyoung and get anons tearing into me for it like I'm his social media manager. Okay so because the world is going to shit we aren't allowed to enjoy anything?? Can't make jokes about anything. Can't show support for anything. Just wrong on every fucking count.

Believe me I am so goddamn aware of how lucky I am that I can sit here and say I'm very privileged that I live comfortably in the life I have. I know what's going on in the world and I do my part to help where I can, but I also have to keep functioning. I don't want every minute of my life to be seeped in anger, I did that for a long time and it not only eats away at you, it makes you ineffective in actually changing the things making you angry in the first place.

This was just supposed to be a blog where I posted my stories. One of the few places I could go and not constantly be reminded of how fucked up the world is. I've always said that people who told me reading a fic of mine made their day a little better or helped them escape for a bit were always my favorite. That was what I came here for and I loved being able to share the tiniest moments of peace and quiet with others through stories with guaranteed happy endings.

I'm frustrated because I have 4 drafts ready to go next year. I got the story posts done and made all the headers. But I don't want to post them. I have no problem admitting I'm selfish and spiteful. Even though I can turn off anon, I can't block these miserable people and I don't want them reading my stuff. They don't get to consume my content and then tell me to off myself right after.

A massive fuck you to those of you that ruined this blog for me.

[team5ds]

nothin if not consistent

Summary: "If we for real get haunted on our anniversary, I'm breaking up with you. I'm serious this time."

"You're the one who keeps hanging out with people who believe in ghosts."

Rating: G

Ships: Mai Kujaku/Aileen Rao

Author’s note: written for the prompt of "paranormal investigation" for @sapphic-september

read on ao3 / support me on kofi (battle city & up supporters get early access) / join my discord (18+)

Mai did not believe in ghosts, but Aileen did. And well, she didn't just believe in ghosts: she liked to go ghost hunting. She wasn't sure what Aileen expected to find in the run down houses that she dragged her to, but so far they'd turned up empty at every corner. Was there really any point in continuing to go to these places? Well, somehow she got dragged into planning  a trip to a haunted mansion for their anniversary. "If we for real get haunted on our anniversary, I'm breaking up with you," Mai deadpanned as Aileen went over their bags. "I'm serious this time. Bad enough Yugi keeps telling us about how he was possessed for a while."

"You're the one who keeps hanging out with people who believe in ghosts," Aileen retorted with a teasing grin. A sparkle in her eyes - she wasn't taking any of this seriously. "Besides, if we get for real haunted, you owe me."

"What?"

"Remember? You said that if I could prove ghosts were real, you'd owe me," she said, zipping up their suitcases for travel. "And I believe that you said you always pay your debts."

She sighed, blowing her bangs out of her face. "Okay, yeah, I do recall saying something to that effect," she grumbled, remembering how Aileen asked what she'd win if she could prove ghosts were real. Not that she expected this trip to contain any actual haunting. For that to happen, ghosts would have to be real and they weren't. Except for the times they were in those old houses and it felt like something had her hairs standing on the back of her neck... almost like the time she'd passed out after losing at Battle City... and like the big blank missing memory she had from three days that felt like she emerged totally altered. "But since ghosts aren't real, I'm never going to have to pay up."

"If ghosts aren't real, then you have nothing to fear about this new house I want to explore," she teased, hopping into bed with her. "They say it's haunted by this person who had been killed."

A vengeful ghost. Not exactly Mai's idea of a fun time, but well... Aileen was right. Ghosts weren't real and they certainly weren't going to interrupt their nice day. "Fine," Mai said with a roll of her eyes. "But I'm telling you now: I'm not going to owe you anything but a good time. Let's go."

[aku-soul]

WARNING P5R SPOILERS AHEAD GO PLAY THE GAME FOR YOURSELF AND SKIP THIS POST IF YOU DONT WANNA BE SPOILED

So anyways I finished persona 5 royal a couple days ago, here's my thoughts:

Absolutely amazing game, I loved it so dang much and I'm so sad it's over. And now, onto the character reviews

Ren Amamiya (protag): It's me! But man do I feel even worse for what he had to go through. Seriously, going to jail twice, temporarily losing his memory and hoping that he would get stuff right... Dude the scene where akechi shot me gave me chills it was done so well. I was seriously about to cry thinking I messed up. Also, if I was joker at the end of sem 3 after I graduated I would immediately come back to leblanc because coffee dad duh.

Sojiro Sakura: HE CALLED ME FAMILY, COFFEE DAD CALLED ME FAMILY OH MY GOD BEST DAY EVER. I love dad so much. It was so sweet when he cried after I left, that almost made me cry too.

Ann Takamaki: Yeah she sure does exist, uh huh. I barely interacted with her... I don't think her phantom thief outfit helped at all with that issue.

Morgana: Congrats on finally becoming human for a while dude. Also him being part of the velvet room was not something I expected. At all. Also when he was about to disappear I almost freaking cried what the hell. You can't do that to me game. AND THEY DID IT TWICE. Those scenes made me realize how much I actually care for morgana the cat (cue "I AM NOT A CAT")

Futaba: SISTER SHE IS MY SISTER! I am going to feel so weird when I romance her for completions sake... I love the bond her and I have as siblings. She did such a good job growing up within such a short amount of time, I am so proud. Also holy hell was she smart with the akechi phone thing. No wonder she did something so out of character in that moment.

Makoto: I am going to beat up Eiko's boyfriend so hard. I never finished her story though, I got up to level 8 with her. Eh whatever there's always next playthrough. Her heals are pretty good, to bad I hardly ever use her.

Igor (both false and real): Dude I could not get over the real igors voice, please give me back the fake igors voice that one sounded so much better seriously. Also I checked and igor is indeed voiced by dad from fe3h love that. The boss fight for him though freaking sucked, like can you please stop giving my cat lust with your gun, seriously?

Haru: I'm gonna be completely honest, I didn't start her confidant till like 5 days before the final battle because I thought I'd need her for true ending (I thought true ending required all confidants, better save than sorry). Honestly, no real opinion on her. She certainly does exist. I wonder if the vegetables she grows are any good... If they're for sp that'd be nice because sp recovery items are so hard to come by.

The twins (and lavenza): Dude I nearly cried when I had to execute the twins, it felt so sad. But hey, at least I got lavenza out of it. I'm guessing she's the one who wrote the list then. Also her avatar in persona 5 tactica is so cute.

Ichiko: Drunk aunt type. I got close to finishing her storyline but didn't. Whatever. I hate how she's an option for romance but my harem bois aren't??? What is this atrocity.

Kawakami: Yeah look I don't care if you're getting threatened by the mafia or loan sharks or whatever. Please stop texting me "Hello master!" when you said yourself you don't want the history on my phone to be available. I only got two things in because my god am I super uncomfortable with calling my teacher up for maid services...

Hifumi: If I didn't hc joker as super gay for my harem bois (I will explain who those people are later) she'd probably be the one I'd ship him with. I like her a lot honestly, she might be my favorite romanceable option.

Tae Takemi: Her ex boss fucking sucks, get off your high horse dude. At least we managed to change his heart and get her back on track. I'm hc'ing miwa chan as continuing to visit Tae even after she gets better and eventually following in Tae's footsteps and helps out around the clinic.

Iwai: GUN UNCLE GUN UNCLE. Him giving me a gecko at the end had me tearing up. He considers me family too oh my god. Also hell yeah I got a cousin out of that deal. I love uncle Iwai so much.

Mishima: I maxed him out and then promptly forgot about him. Seriously, when the scene of him petitioning for signatures happened I immediately thought "oh shit yeah mishima is a person who exists". Sorry mishima...

Yoshida: Yeah, I started him and that was about it. I really don't care about him at all if I'm being honest. I will have to eventually level him up though... Next playthrough

Shinya: Woo younger brother alert. I'm so proud that he gave back the money he took from other kids and apologized too. Good job Shinya, you did good.

Maruki: Ugh his character arc was so good. Dude the 2/2 reveal broke my heart I was so tempted to take the offer, but I knew I couldn't. But dude. Why are you a taxi driver at the end. What is the reason for that what.

Ryuji: HAREM BOI NUMBER ONE BABY!!!! The numbers don't matter it's just when we got introduced to em. I love him so much. In tactica I was able to "marry" him and I was so excited that I took screenshots. Dude when he saved us in shido's palace and we thought he died I almost cried. I love Ryuji so much.

Yusuke: HAREM BOI NUMBER TWO BABY!!!! He is so gay I love him. At the end when he gave me his painting I teared up. I absolutely love him so much. A great addition to the harem bois. Best artist boi.

Akechi: WHY MY GUY FUCKING WHY! HAREM BOI NUMBER THREE!!!! You were the reason why I was so tempted to take Maruki's offer, don't treat your life as if it was nothing. Also you don't hate me you love me admit it. Robbie Daymon does such a good job on everday akechi I love it so much. I leveled him up as soon as I could. Also because of the ending he's still alive and no one can change my mind, I *need* him to be alive. Dude I bougth tactica and the dlc just so I could see him again. I love akechi so freaking much. Also his official va and joker's official va made a cover song together and it's so good I am obsessed and I have seen some good things made out of it.

I think that's all? If anyone wants me to give my opinion on anyone else I will. Anyways back to playing tactica and once I finish that it's onto strikers

[jazzcat247]

Hey king cobra and dough cookie. This question is for both of ya since I kinda wanna hear both sides of two stories:

1. How did you two meet?

2. How did you become a couple? Because ngl you two look cute together!

I really try, Doughy. But with all the political scandals roaming around the grapevine, I just don't understand why such darling cookie's surround themselves with fighting, and brawling, and-!

Meep-!

Ooooh dear....

Pardon my rudeness, Gingy! Doughy & I were just, ahh- Reminiscing! Yes, reminiscing on old times~!

Reminiscing...? You mean you guys.... Used to fight in an arena?

w-Well.... yes! Believe it or not, these two emphatic exotics before you were once rambunctious fighters of our very own Colosseum! But when I met Dough Cookie, I knew I couldn't bear to fight another soul in the ring. So we packed up our things & left, aiming to make a new life for ourselves in a whirlwind romance~!(Right, Doughy?)

MmHmM!

Huh.... Soooo, you guys aren't big fans of the arena's cuz of your love story?

Aww, man. That's too bad.... Purple Yam Cookie said you too could be real cool fighters if you "Stopped acting all lovey-dovey." Heh, but I guess you guys aren't dropping that anytime soon aren't ya?

Hmph, certainly not Gingy! Now run along home now.... Oh, and have a Merry Christmas!

YeAh, MeRrY cHrIstMas...!

Heh, Merry Christmas King Cobra! You too, Dough!

(Warning: Mentions of fighting rings, Objectification, and Ab*se)

Ladies and Gentleman! Cookies of every rarity! Witness the majesty of the Toybox Witch's menagerie of half-breads, freaks, and abominations! Place your bets on our two highest contending fighters as they finally battle to the crumbling end!

On the left, we have the scaled, the smoking, and the sensual King Cobra Cookie! Onlookers are told not to stare too long at this boxum beast, for any who lay eyes upon him or his hideous haired cohorts shall be frozen to stone.... Though, he is said to fight quite well when you gaze upon his bountiful body, though it may give you a fright! You may even garner good luck if you can map out the brand mark on his backside!

On the right, we have the Hideous Dough Cookie! Crafted from our great witch herself, is he truly cookie? Is he truly cake? We may never know! He may not be as entrancing to look at compared to our viper king, but be warned: his lucid state is the only way to keep him from ripping apart any who get too close! Behind that slothful, oafish facade, he is a cold-blooded crumbler!

Place your bets ladies and gentleman! Do you think our Succulent King of the Snake Charmers will win or perhaps will the Crazed Amalgamation of Dough have his next meal? Whoever wins will have another jewel embedded into their collection, all rewarded after conquering previous, now crumbled adversaries!

[coffee-writesthings]

Engineer has been feeling tense, so he goes to Spy to ask for help. What follows is two very different confessions, one personal and the other amorous. It's not exactly like either can avoid such a thing, especially when one is shirtless and the other just offered to straddle him so he can give a better massage.

EngieSpy, but not cross team. They get emotionally and (somewhat) physically intimate (this probably would just be like pg-13 in terms of a rating), dropping down walls and showing their built-up trust for each other.

WC: 2.1k

The Engineer had been feeling tense all day, and battle hadn't helped at all with the feeling. Squeezing his own shoulders out of curiosity yielded that they were hard as rocks. His back also hurt, which was helped with some stretching but not all that much.

He didn't like the options he had-- either to create a specialized heating pad, or to live with the pain. There had to be something else he could do, someone else he could get help from.

While pacing anxiously in thought, he caught the scent of... something. A sort of rosey, citrus smell emanated from Spy's smoking room. Whatever he was doing sure smelled relaxing. Would he mind a drop-in at a time like this?

He inched towards the door, almost subconsciously. Chewing his lip and fiddling with his fingernails, he kept considering if he could ask about something to help him relax. He always seemed so at ease, or good at rolling with the punches, at least.

With one last look towards the door, he walked away. "Ah who am I kiddin', he'd never wanna help me. I'll just build something..."

Spy's door opened, sending a gust of air outwards. "Engineer, you have been here for so long that I could feel your presence through the door. What do you want?"

"Spy! I- uh- well, you see..."

He fixed a piercing look into his eyes. "Well?"

"I can't say it here," he whispered. "Could we go into your room?"

He huffed, "Sure. Come on in."

"Thanks," he said, face heating up.

The smell of rose and citrus was stronger inside, though not unpleasant. It came from a candle, one with a brand name he recognized. He'd seen the name, some french word, on packages that he brought in for him sometimes.

Spy didn't speak. Instead, he walked around Engineer in a circle, looking him up and down.

"So, what do you want?"

"Real to the point, aren't you?" He chuckled, nervous.

"Yes I am. Now, are you going to tell me what you wanted the extra privacy for, or am I going to kick you out for wasting my time?"

"I- well... I wanted to ask for a massage, or something to help with my back. It's been hurting all day."

"Why me?"

"I trust you, with a lotta things. And- dammit, why is this so hard. I- I don't think I'd mind you seeing my chest for the moment it'd need to be out for that."

"Oh" his eyebrows visibly rose, "You're... also?"

"Also? Wait are you..."

Spy put up a finger to tell him to wait a second. Then, wordlessly, he started undressing to show the man his binder. It was a simple one, the same shade as his skin, but it was definitely a binder.

"Well shit, I didn't realize. Both of us... that's incredible. I mean it's not like I wanted anyone here to be trans too, just for my sake, but it's certainly comforting to have somebody else here who would understand.

"I feel the same way, I think." He gave a little smile. "Do you still want the massage? I would be happy to, if you do trust me for it."

"Yes!" He blurted "That came out way too damn fast, but yes. I want that. Please."

"Wonderful." He put his shirt back on, and gestured with his head where they would go. "My bed would be the easiest, is that alright?"

He swallowed, "I don't have a problem with that in the slightest." Internally he cringed at how eager he was being. One of these days he really needed to get a date, just some physical contact with someone he didn't already know. Maybe some nice tuefort girl, that way he wouldn't have to deal with the whole feelings thing.

Sure, he was repressing feelings for someone else, but there was no way he'd be both a trans man and gay, or into him for that matter.

Nonetheless, when they got into Spy's actual bedroom, things felt a lot more... intimate. His bedroom was smaller than his own room, already small on its own. He took off his gloves as soon as the door was shut, cloaking both of them in yet another layer of safety, of privacy.

"Would you prefer to keep your shirt on or take it off?" He asked, sorting through a few vials he kept in a nightstand drawer.

"I can take it off." he swallowed, "Like I said, I don't mind."

"Bien. And as for oils, would you prefer a warm candle or some colder liquid?"

"Candles?" He said, shirt half-way unbuttoned.

"This." He held a candle, poking its soft wax with his finger for effect. Under just a little pressure, it squished, creating a dent of sorts. "It'll only be warm when it melts, you won't be burned. I've used such things on myself, it really is a pleasant experience."

"That sure does sound nice." And for God's sake he was working on actively undressing for him, why not add another act of trust onto the list? "I'd like that."

Once he finished with the agonizing act of taking off a shirt, he laid face-down on Spy's bed, clutching one of his pillows as instructed. ("Make yourself comfortable" he said, "everything will be fine," he said. As if this wasn't something that made his own heart skip a beat, seeing Dell able to be so vulnerable with him.)

For a few minutes, while the candles started to melt, they talked about their transitions.

"So... how old were you when you realized?"

"That's a good question, mon ami. It was before I came to work here, I know that much. I think being a spy in the first place was what drove me to realize how much I liked being a man-- not just the easy access to targets, but actually to be one. For a while though, it felt like being female was the disguise, so, things got confusing." He chuckled, "And you? When did you discover it?

"I'm afraid it's nowhere near as interesting as your story," he started, "Figured it out when I was a teenager. Kept looking at all these guys on the TV, and hell, I just couldn't tell whether I wanted to be the guy or the girl dating the guy. It led to a lot of crappy experiences in terms of dating. With girls, I wasn't all that interested, even after I started figuring myself out. And then with guys, I couldn't help but feel inferior somehow? Not really sure what it was." He coughed, as if trying to cover up his next statement, "It's not like I've ever felt that way around you though."

"What was that last part?"

"Nothing! Nothing, that would matter for your purposes at least." He cleared his throat, "How's that wax coming along, by the way?"

"It's ready, I can start now." He grabbed the candle and dripped some wax onto the other's back, rubbing it in lightly to cover the expanse of flesh.

"Holy sweet mother of Mary that is nice. If you could just, cover me in that perpetually, I would-- I would build you the most high-tech knives the world's ever known."

He chuckled, "It seems to me you like this."

"Now where," he said with his face buried in the pillow, "would you possibly get that idea?"

"I'm going to actually start now. You're going to be in control of how this goes-- if you want more or less pressure, for me to move, or if I hurt you, I want to know. Am I clear?"

As much as he wanted to just tell him to get on with it already, he appreciated the care being put into it. "Yeah, I understand."

Spy's hands were soft, but firm. He'd clearly done this sort of thing before, paying extra attention to bits of tension that Dell hadn't even noticed before.

"Could ya go a little higher?"

"Here?" Just his fingertips dragged upwards, to between his shoulder plates. He gave it a tentative press.

"Mmph, yes that's it. That's the spot."

"Problem."

"Solution?"

"I can't do this very easily from beside you like this. When I would do this for my lovers, usually I'd sit above them, so we were parallel."

He worked some mental math, figuring out what sort of position he meant. Instantly his face heated up, "Oh! Like you'd straddle me?"

"...Yes."

"Do it, I don't mind. Hell I want you to," he paused, stammering, "but it's not like I want you like that necessarily, I mean if you were okay with that maybe I'd ask real nicely but like you're-- and I'm not gonna do that sort of thing to a friend-- fuck. I wasn't exactly meaning to say any of that."

Silence fell over the room for just a moment, the only thing either could hear was their shared breathing. Spy broke the silence, "Dell," he said, "You... do you have feelings for me?"

"It's more than that" he sighed, now regretting having said anything at all. He couldn't exactly turn back now, given that he was shirtless and his back covered in oils. There was no way to explain that if he were seen by someone else. He sat up, so he could say what he had to, so he could take the rejection 'like a man'. "I admire you, more than might be normal. The amount of skill it takes to do your job, your wit, how much you care about the team, despite not showing it all the time? Things like that pull at my heart. You smiled at me once at one of my dispensers and I still haven't gotten the image out of my head. And, I understand if you think less of me," he didn't. "But I like you, and being on this team together has me wishing we could be more than just team mates."

Spy looked at Dell, at how he just laid out his heart for him, how he delicately put it in his hands. He didn't want to squeeze it too hard, but he wanted to show that he felt the same way. How was he supposed to do that?

"I..." he swallowed. Why is this so difficult? "I think I feel similarly. I hate when the enemy spy saps your machinery, a little part of me dies when your sentries are taken down. Late at night, I can't help but wonder what you're tinkering with. This isn't the sort of thing I'd tell you under normal circumstances, but, I've caught myself staring at you while you build. Sure, I brushed it off, at the time. You're my team mate, crucial capturing and holding points, of course I should keep watch. Of course I should defend you. But then it kept happening. I kept wondering what it would be like to dance with you, to be intimate, physically, after battles."

One could hear a pin drop in the silence that followed.

"I kept wondering what it would be like to kiss you."

Wordlessly, Dell nodded, as if asking for permission. It was returned, as he held the others face, closing the distance between them, they pressed their list together. He was soft, gentle.

Spy held into Dell's bare shoulders, just so he didn't get oils on his face. He trailed them u, unconsciously grabbing at the back of his neck, playing with his short hair.

In return, he moved a hand to the others waist, just laying there, offering support.

That was how they remained for about a minute, trading kisses and touches. It was Spy who finally broke to get some air.

"Was that good?" Asked Dell.

"Yes, c'est merveillieux." He said, wiping some saliva from his lips.

"uh, mare vay you?"

He chuckled, then broke out into laughter like bells, "I'm sorry. That was French, I forgot the word-- marvelous! That's what it was in English-- yes, it was good, better than good. Was it for you as well?"

He nodded rapidly, "And thank you, for all of this. I'm gonna have to wash it off, right?" He was referring to the oils.

"Probably, yes. If being seen is an issue, you can borrow one of my watches. I have spares."

"Yeah, I think I'll need one of those."

"Give me just a minute." He left to wash his hands, and grab one of the many spare invisibility watches he kept in drawers. It wasn't anything too special, a plain silver thing that lasted around a minute.

The engineer made his way back to his room, holding his shirt, with little problem. When the watch finished doing it's magic, he was already ready to get in his private shower. The whole time, he couldn't wipe the dopey look off his face even if he wanted to.

[daitranscripts]

Trespasser Banter

Shattered Library

Trespasser Masterpost

—

Cassandra

Cassandra: Demons, dragons, and even darkspawn. Now Qunari. I wonder if we will ever run out of things to fight.

Iron Bull: Now I’m thinking about dragons, and I’m even more depressed. Cassandra: The dragons were amazing, weren’t they? Iron Bull: They really were. Cassandra: I never understood my homeland’s fascination with dragons until the Inquisition. I suppose I am Nevarran after all. Iron Bull: You don’t like corpses, though. Maybe you’re Qunari. Cassandra: (Laughs.)

Sera: Dragons were the best. Well, until Qunari women were everywhere. All… like they are. (Giggles.)

Dorian: I’m just pleased it isn’t Venatori. For once, Tevinter isn’t the problem.

Blackwall: Wouldn’t mind darkspawn. At least with them, you know where you stand.

—

Iron Bull

Iron Bull: Floating crap, magic crap, evil demon crap…

If in party during HLtA Iron Bull: This is like the Fade, only with falling to your death on top.

Iron Bull: When this is over, I’m gonna need somebody to hit me with a stick again.

Cassandra: No.

Sera: That works. It isn’t over, and I already want to hit things with sticks.

Dorian: I’m not sure whether I want that to be a metaphor or not.

Varric: Whatever works for you, Tiny.

Iron Bull: Next time we get the gang back together, let’s do a dragon instead. Dragons are fun.

—

Blackwall

Made Warden Blackwall: I’ve been through some battles as a Warden. Fighting one group of darkspawn’s the same as another.

Pardoned Blackwall: You know, when I traveled alone, I’d fight bandits, some drunk chevaliers—nothing out of the ordinary.

Blackwall: Back with the Inquisition, and a moment later we’re battling secret Qunari assassins in a dream-library.

Dorian: Any regrets, Rainier?

Cassandra: It has certainly been memorable.

Vivienne: Did you expect anything less?

Blackwall: I wouldn’t have missed this for anything.

Sera: Aww, back at you beardy. We’re the best in the worst place ever.

Cole: I’m glad you’re here, Thom.

—

Sera

Sera: The Fade. Not good. I would—(Breathes erratically.)—rather be—(Breathes erratically.)—anywhere else!

Romanced Sera: But you’re here. You’re here. (Breathes deeply.) Eat it, Fade! She makes it fine!

Cassandra: There’s nothing here you haven’t killed ten of, and then looted their small clothes to wear on your head disrespectfully. Sera: Pfft! That… that helps a lot actually

Blackwall: Easy, Sera. We’re old hands at this. Just stare them square and remember these sage words: “Fuck ‘em.” Sera: Pfft! That… that helps a lot actually

Vivienne: Calm yourself, little Sera. It is, after all, not technically the Fade. Sera: Rrrr! You are more annoying than any demon, and… you did it on purpose. Vivienne: You’re welcome, my dear. Sera: Didn’t thank you!

If Cassandra/Blackwall/Vivienne not in party Sera: I mean, please yourself, Inquisitor Herald, but really. Let’s kill everything and be anywhere else!

—

Varric

Varric: You think we could take a couple of these books back with us?

Mage PC: I don't think they're actually books. More like… dreams of books.

Vivienne: They aren't really books, my dear. They're merely emanations of ideas projected into your mind.

Dorian: Unfortunately, I don't believe any of these are physical objects. They're ideas. You just see them as books. ㅤㅤ ㅤ

Dalish PC: Even if you could take them out of here, they're probably written in ancient elven, which not even my people can read.

Sera: Trying to take them is just asking for it. They're probably demony.

Iron Bull: How about we just leave all the creepy Fade shit where we found it?

Varric: I've never read an elven novel. I wonder what kind of stories they told.

—

Cole

More spirit

Cole: The Veil isn’t real. It’s false, fake, fabricated to forbid. Isn’t it wonderful?

Cassandra: If what we have seen here is true, it changes everything we thought we knew about the Fade and this world.

Iron Bull: “Wonderful” isn’t the word I would’ve chosen. No wonder my people are shitting themselves about this place.

Dorian: I was thinking “alarming,” personally.

Cole: It means I belong here! Helping, healing the hurt! I’m not a wrong thing, a wreck, a ruin. I’m what I should be!

Sera: Nobody is used to this, are they? Try this, Creepy: I practiced thought-arrows to keep you out of my head. Cole: You keep making me think of genitals. Sera: The fade is flaps and dangles here.

Cole: (Sighs.) Solas understands.

Dorian: I imagine he would understand, if he were here. Shame he ran off.

Iron Bull: Or he would, if he were here. His loss for taking off.

Cassandra: Solas would understand, if he were here… but we must respect his decision to leave.

Cole: He doesn’t want me to follow, but I can almost feel him here. All new, faded for her.

-

More human Cole: Back when I was a spirit, this wouldn’t have bothered me. Now it’s all wrong.

—

Dorian

Dorian: Look at this place. Now that we have so many samples… how hard would it be to build Eluvians of our own?

Cole: Mirrors to places, that mirror what you’ve seen in those places. Dorian: Is that approval? Hard to tell with you.

Cole (spirit): You want to bring some good, a piece of the past that aches to think it’s lost. Cole (human): Sorry, I don’t know either.

Sera: Dorian, how about you not be so Tevinter about this ancient bullshit?

Iron Bull: No. Dorian: But think of the— Iron Bull: Nope!

Dorian: After these past few years, it would be good to create something magical that is also helpful for a change.

Cassandra: Is that wise? Dorian: If I get around to it, I’ll send you an eluvian, Cassandra. Striking women can never be flattered by too many reflections. Cassandra: (Laughs.) If you get around to it, shall I be forced to accept?

Vivienne: Or make a fruitless chase for Tevinter’s lost glory?

Blackwall: Trust you to think of something like this when you’re trying to help.

Dorian: Come, now. We could visit each other on a whim! Think how much fun life would be if I were a step away.

Blackwall: I don’t think I’ve the strength.

Vivienne: My dear Lord Pavus, the mind practically reels

Dorian: If they’re going to stuff me into politics, I’ve got to have some fun on the side.

—

Vivienne

Vivienne: Look at all of this! What a pity.

Dorian: The destruction of the library? It’s a tragic waste.

Varric: I know you like books Iron Lady, but I never thought I’d hear you lament the loss of elven literature.

PC: You mean the library or the books?

Vivienne: Actually, I meant the elves. To build an entire empire on the foundation of magic…

Dorian: So did the Imperium. Although we haven’t reached the “entire libraries in the Fade” stage. Yet.

Varric: There’s probably worse things to base your civilization around. Coin, the lyrium trade, tradition…

PC: They couldn’t have known that magic would one day dry up.

Vivienne: The elves trusted completely that the world as it was would never change. This rubble is the legacy of that trust

Vivienne: I know you want to save the Imperium, but be careful, Dorian darling. If it crumbles beneath you, be ready to jump. Dorian: I always am.

Vivienne: If the Qunari can mine lyrium, others can learn the secret. Orzammar’s time is ever more swiftly coming to a close. Varric: I know. I don’t even want to think about everything it’ll break up on the surface when it collapses.

High approval Vivienne: Empires fall and regimes change, Inquisitor. Do make sure you’re still standing when the dust clears.

Neutral/low approval Vivienne: Better to trust in nothing.