#well better this way no way i have the time to play both poe and da before the new games come out

[coffeeworldsasaki]

Awo//ved Is also short I've completely given up on this game being good 😔

[riiwrites]

“dancing in the dark.”

summary : when the BSD men catch you dancing.

includes : chuuya, dazai, fyodor

request : “i was thinking what fyodor, dazai and chuuya would react if their s/o is actually a dancer and keeps it a secret from them!” - 💙

a/n: thank you so much for the request, angel!! i really tried to fit the description as you requested in your og ask, i hope it’s fit to your standards :) also tysm to my lovely poe for being my russian translator for the nicknames that fyodor uses in this fic! show him some love, they’re so so great <3 @cherrymoka222

masterlist | main page | daily click

CHUUYA

• Chuuya truly thought he knew everything about you. From your likes to dislikes, your personality traits and little silly habits. He thought he had you figured out.

• That was until, he caught you in the garden.

• Moving elegantly but so swiftly, he was in awe.

• He didn’t dare to disturb you, thinking this moment was just so perfect to ruin.

• And he thought, if you were to hide such a thing from him, how would you react if he knew? So he never confronts you about it.

• That is until, he has a better idea.

“Right, baby..I’m gonna head to bed.” Chuuya announced with a yawn, making you turn your head as you nod softly, smiling at him.

“Kay.”

He begins to walk out the room, as soon as he reaches the doorway however, he takes one last little glance at you and smiles to himself before heading off.

An hour or so later, the normal time you would often “head to bed” came around but in reality, you’re heading to your escape in the garden.

As you head towards the back door, you couldn’t help but have a sneaky feeling that something was different about tonight.

Oh how you were so right.

There stood Chuuya, still in his normal work attire with a big smirk on his face as he watched your little suspicious look turn into one of shock.

“Hey.” He says.

“..Hey..” You repeat, slowly making your way towards him. As you did, you noticed the scenery around you.

The bushes surrounding and sculpting the area were lit beautifully with fairy-lights scattered across them left to right, with a little boombox sat on a nearby table with slow jazz playing softly in the background.

“..So you know..?” You ask.

“Oh I know.” He instantly says, letting out a chuckle as he saw your flushed face out of embarrassment.

“Come now, doll..why the face? You shouldn’t be embarrassed.” He says softly, walking towards you and creating the distance between you both smaller and smaller with each passing second. “I think it’s beautiful.” He whispers as he reaches out to touch you, lifting your chin up with his gloved fingers.

You shyly locate your eyes to find his, a little hesitance in your voice as you whispered “Really?”

He nodded, his smirk now changing to a soft and comforting smile as he whispers back. “Really.” The tone in his voice sounding so sincere and full of genuine honesty made you feel giddy.

He leans in and kisses your lips ever so gently, before pulling away after a few seconds to hold out his hand towards you.

“Can I?” He asks.

You smile, nodding as you put your hand in his, and he slowly walks backwards and guides you throughout the garden, spinning you around and dancing with you in the dark as if time was nonexistent.

DAZAI

• This smug bastard already has a pretty fine idea about your talent.

• He’s already onto your every move.

• Why? Because he sees the way your eyes light up once anything dance related shows up on the screen and you look so engrossed with it.

• He thinks it’s adorable, really. He’s always known you’ve had a liking for dance.

• But, catching you whilst you’re actually dancing just like the stars on TV? Moving so graciously with your legs as you slowly make the garden your own.

• He could watch you for hours, and he did.

You walk on water like it’s fragile to touch, the little ripples appearing just below your toes as you tread ever so lightly but dance with such a powerful impact that could make everyone stop and stare.

Well, it made someone specific stop and stare.

“Wow..” You’re instantly snapped out of your thoughts as you fall straight into the water, snapping your head towards the sound of your disturbance. You shoot him a glare.

“Whaaat? Can’t I watch my beautiful bella dance like nobody’s watching?”

“Well someone’s clearly watching.” You scoff as you stand up, your lower half now drenched in water.

“I’ve been watching you for hours, Y’know~” He chimes, smirking as you step out of the water and shake your legs to remove any excess water.

“How did I not notice your eery gaze carving holes into the back of me..?” You whisper to yourself, but Dazai answers your rhetorical question anyway.

“I’ve actually known about your little talent for months now, you just haven’t spotted me. Until today when I was oh so rudely interrupted..” He sighs heavily.

“Okay, one, Joe Goldberg, cool it.” You retort as you walk towards the back door, to which he was standing in front of. “And two, you interrupted me! I would’ve kept dancing if you kept your mouth shut..”

“Oh?~” He says, his smirk only growing wider. “Is that an invitation, dear?”

You couldn’t help your blush as you look up at him, smiling a little as your annoyed facade fades. “..Maybe..”

He smiles, hopping off the steps leading to the back door and placing a kiss on your forehead. “Aren’t you just the sweetest when you’re not mad at me?” He says, then, he flicks your forehead.

“Ow!- dick..” You murmur as Dazai walks past you, giggling to himself as he reaches the bit of the garden to which you were dancing on.

“Well? Show me the VIP experience, bella.”

You couldn’t help but smile and roll your eyes as you rush to the pool of water as Dazais eyes follow you, waiting patiently for you to begin.

As you begin to dance and return to your concentrated look. Dazai stares with the biggest smile on his face as he watches you take the night away with your actions. God, how lucky was he?

And he could’ve sworn he fell in love with you all over again, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

FYODOR

• Like Dazai, he knows about your liking towards dancing.

• But, he doesn’t know you actually do it, he just thought it was something you enjoyed to watch.

• You tried your hardest to hide it from him, simply because you didn’t want to bother him with your interests whilst he was busy working and didn’t want to be a distraction.

• He suspected something the moment you started acting suspicious around him, you could never hide anything from him.

• He eventually found out about it one day when he was reading and then suddenly heard piano music being played from outside.

• His interest was piqued almost immediately, as he closed his book and slowly made his way throughout the house and out to the garden.

• He had his suspicions, and as he reached the door and opened it quietly, they were confirmed.

• There you were, dancing ever so beautifully and spinning heavenly. Why would you hide this from him?

• He wanted to find out, and he was going to.

Soon, the music came to an end, putting an end to your routine as you descend from your tiptoes and onto the ground flat. There were a few seconds of silence until the area was filled with sounds of slow clapping.

You could’ve swore you heard your heart stop.

“Myshka..why’d you stop?” He says with a little smirk. You turn around slowly as your met with your lovers strong gaze.

“Oh..uhm..because the song..ended..” You stammer, looking down at your feet as you could practically feel your inner self growing smaller and smaller with each moment of silence.

Fyodor walks towards you, hands clasped together. “What a performance, lapachka..You move so elegantly.” He compliments you, to which you blush and move your hands to your face.

“You weren’t supposed to know..” You muffle out, and he can’t help but chuckle at your cute actions. He gently takes your hands and pulls them from your face, giving you the same smile but this time, it looked comforting.

“And why not?” He asks.

“I just..” You pause, becoming careful with your words. “I didn’t want to bother you with it..”

His gaze becomes softer as he appears a bit confused, and also..saddened? It only lasts a second though as his smirk returns and he strokes your cheek.

“You could never bother me, dear..” He whispers as he kisses your lips. You close your eyes and kiss him back, going up on your tiptoes to get a better angle. He pulls away and continues stroking your cheek, before pulling away and walking past you and heading towards the music player himself.

You raise an eyebrow as you turn towards him. “..What are you doing?” You ask skeptically. He switches on a channel of classical music, looking up at you with the same look on his face as he extends a hand out towards you.

“Come.” He says, and you instantly follow.

He takes your hand and you both begin to way to the music, his feet moving just the same as yours as if he was an expert on what he was doing. You were surprised.

“How are you so experienced with this?” You giggle.

“I’ve adapted to the area of dancing in..every lifetime let’s just say..” He replies, spinning you around slowly once before going back to sway with you. You smile, making Fyodor chuckle just a little.

You both danced for most of the night, and being in eachothers arms made Fyodor think he was one of the luckiest men in the world.

Maybe living in this lifetime wasn’t so bad, as long as it meant being with you.

TAGLIST : @forgotten-blues @ruru-kiss @texas-bitch-yee @lvstyangel @is-therelife-onmars @atlasnessie @101strawberries101 @reesesnieces @suzurans-world @heartsfourdazai @nomnomventi @silverbladexyz @inojuuy @boarcide @cherrymoka222 @kissesmellow21 @aliyahgracedrawing @chuuyathehatrack2 @boredwithwrath @rainy-dazie @lone-ray @ishqani @fun-cats @wefureko-blog @hoicacti @seikkoh @famousfoxkingdom @morrie-rose @underscoredaniii @monmush @night-dazai @s1eepybunny @minomikn @pinkdaises @lalalanddddddddd @mayaaluvvvv @probablyzombiedinosaurs @rinismahname @starrs20 @just4notherhumanbeing @little-miss-chaoss @drowningfishy @saeandscaralover @minniepresents

✿ riiwrites 2024 ; please refrain from ever plagiarising or reposting any of my works without crediting.

[zafirosreverie]

Their reaction to you defending them (Bungo Stray Dogs)

a/n: First time writting for this fandom, let's go!

Doppo Kunikida:

He was used to Dazai and Ranpo's constant teasing, and although he usually ignored them in favor of his paperwork, he couldn't deny that today both geniuses had been especially cruel. He tried not to let it show, after all, there was no reason to make a scene over a simple joke.

Unfortunately, he forgot one small detail: you knew him better than anyone and you could notice the moment when a comment from Ranpo crossed the line of what was acceptable, so it was your duty to intervene in the most mature way possible: unleash hell.

Listen, Kunikida is no fool, he knew what he was getting into when he started dating you, he knew the strength of your ability and your wits, but until now you hadn't had any missions together and he didn't expect you to be so fierce in defending him. If Fukuzawa was wondering why there was a Dazai-shaped hole in the wall while Ranpo was having an existential crisis in his office, he certainly preferred not to ask.

H.P. Lovecraft:

"Human...human what are you doing? Human, put the gun down"

He was a god, a being beyond time and space, why should he care what anyone said about him or the human disguise he used? He never paid attention to that nonsense, he just wanted to finish his work and go back to sleep.

That's why he didn't care when a couple of people made fun of him, or rather, of his "human" appearance, he simply continued walking with a slow but firm step, until he felt a tug on his arm. Confused, he turned to see that you had stopped walking and your hand was tightly squeezing his as you looked at those people with murderous hatred.

You didn't even give him time to react before you pulled out your gun and pointed it at their heads, effectively stopping their laughter as they looked at you in fear.

"Don't try me, bitch" you growled.

Lovecraft only cared about four things: offerings, sleeping, finishing his work (so he could sleep), and his human. You were his human. He was supposed to take care of you and protect you, not the other way around, but it wouldn't be the first time you confused him by doing something you "shouldn't" or that at least didn't make sense to him. Like defending him. Are you sure you're a human and not a gremlin?

Edgar Allan Poe:

As a writer, Poe knew that not everyone would like his novels, it hurt him every time someone told him that, but he was used to it. Of course, there were people more educated than others and sometimes it took days for the pain in his chest to go away, but in the end he learned to live with it.

You were another story. To you, the man was the greatest writer in history, and while you respected other people's opinions (no matter how wrong they were), you drew the line when critics were rude to Edgar.

"I understand if the novel isn't your taste" you told the reviewer "But there's no need to be rude about it. If you don't have anything nice to say, shut the hell up"

"And who are you, beautiful? His babysitter?" he scoffed

Poe squirmed in his place and played with his hands as he lowered his head and let his bangs cover his eyes. He could feel people's eyes on the three of you and it made him more anxious. He was about to ask you to leave the matter alone, but you didn't give him time to react. Before anyone could stop you, you used your ability to send the other guy flying across the room, making him crash hard into the wall. A twist of your hand and a table flew as well, straight into his stomach, suffocating him.

"The only one who can call me beautiful is that cutie over there" you said, pointing at Edgar "say something about him again and you won't live to tell about it"

Poe swallowed hard as you turned and grabbed his hand, leading him out of the place. His mind raced as he tried to understand what had happened. You defended him, and you were terribly fierce, he really didn't know who he was most afraid of anymore, and- wait, you called him cute?!

Nathaniel Hawthorne:

Nathaniel knew he wasn't exactly people's favorite person, but it's not like he cared much, honestly. He would only focus on his own business and ignore any rude comments towards his person. With a skill like the Scarlet Letter, he was more than capable of defending himself when necessary, so why bother with meaningless words?

But you, you took it personal. It was a big surprise to him, because since you had joined the guild, neither of you had done much for the other beyond some friendly greetings and a couple of pleasant conversations, so seeing you so upset on his behalf took him with the guard down.

He watched as you continued to defend him, but he had to jump into action as soon as you showed signs of activating that dangerous ability of yours that always drained you past the point of collapse and left you in bed for at least a few days. He was able to stop you and honestly didn't even care about his attackers as he carried you back home.

"Don't do that again" he scolded you "I'm not worth your own safety."

"No" you agreed and smiled "you're worth more, Nathaniel"

He couldn't help but smile back at you and feel a soft warmth spreading across his chest.

Herman Melville:

When you have already lived as much and been through as many things as he has, it is inevitable that wisdom and resilience will seep into your bones. Herman was not a man who lost his temper easily, and a couple of brats making ill-intentioned comments was the least of his worries.

However, he couldn't help but smile softly as he silently watched your attempt to defend his name. It was cute, if he was honest with himself, not just because of how your cheeks were slightly tinted red with anger, but because of the simple fact that you were willing to go a step forward for him, something he couldn't exactly say about the rest of the guild.

"I'm sorry for that, Mr. Melville" you said once you managed to shoo away the people who had insulted him "I'm sorry that they interrupted our walk in such a rude way"

"Don't worry, little one" he laughed and ruffled your hair gently "why don't we go get a coffee? It's on me, it's the least I can do for my savior"

He winked at you and started walking, waiting for you to follow him. You just laughed and ran after him, not caring about people's stares.

Louisa May Alcott:

She knew that in a confrontation, she had the disadvantage, always. She was small, clumsy and shy, her voice left her easily and her brain slammed shut, leaving her paralyzed with fear. So when a pair of men cornered her in an alley at night, with sinister smiles, Louisa could only close her eyes and expect the worst.

It took her a while to notice the small commotion around her or the men's grunts and screams. It wasn't until she felt a pair of warm arms gently hugging her, that she was able to react and finally open her eyes, only to be met with your worried gaze.

"Are you ok, Lu?" you asked softly

Louisa could only nod and snuggle deeper into your arms. It took her the entire trip back to the Guild building to catch up with everything and realize that you had saved her life. Once safe, she wasted no time thanking you as many times as she could, not stopping even when you told her it was fine.

Expect her to be attached to you from that moment on, not wanting to go out on the town unless you accompanied her and offering to help you in any way she could until you tell her it's not necessary (she still will, tho).

Bram Stoker:

"Do not do that again"

You looked at the vampire with disbelief. You just defended him and that's how he thanked you? Damn insensitive being, you didn't even know why you bothered (you knew, but you weren't ready to admit it).

Bram wasn't really trying to be rude, he just didn't care about the situation at all. It wasn't unusual for Fukuchi to yell at him, for Gogol to make fun of him, or for some other member of the DOA to insult him, but he didn't care, all he wanted was to rest.

That's why he hadn't said anything when the clown had opened his coffin to mock him again, nor when you had jumped into action to defend him, he had simply watched indifferently as you tried to defend his honor.

But even he had to admit that you had guts, not everyone would stand up to a person like Gogol, who had no trouble hurting people no matter who they were, moreover, you had come out of it unscathed. And all in his name.

Bram had to admit that you had been passionate in your defense of his person and although he really couldn't care less about the incident, he supposed it would be only right to acknowledge your effort.

"Thank you" he said, stopping your steps.

"Uh?"

"You're brave" he admitted "…but don't do it again, I'm not worthy of you getting hurt."

His face showed no emotion, but his eyes told another story. You smiled softly at him and nodded. You both knew you weren't going to listen to that warning, but you didn't need to say it out loud.

Sigma:

"If I find out that any of you bothered Sigma again, the "Decay of angels" will become the "Graveyard of rats'" you growled.

Sigma barely had time to blink before you grabbed his hand and led him out of the room, ignoring the dumbfounded looks from Nikolai and Fyodor. The 3-year-old was used to Gogol's jokes that bordered on torture, or Dostoyevsky's cruel, manipulative and cold comments, he didn't like them, and he was always left with a feeling of fear running through his veins, but it was what it was and there was nothing he could do about it if he wanted to continue living.

But you, you were not afraid of either the clown or the devil. Damn, you weren't even afraid of Fukuchi, you were simply with the DOA because your ideals aligned with the organization's ultimate goal. You usually didn't pay much attention to the rest of the members, but you used to spend time with Sigma at the casino.

He thought that maybe you wanted something from him, just like everyone else, but in the time he knew you, you had only been nice to him, asking how he felt or how his day was, and now, you had defended him from Nikolai and Fyodor? He…really didn't know what to think.

"Don't let them bother you" you told him once you got to his office. "And if they do, just tell me, I'll take care of it" you promised.

Sigma nodded slowly and you gave him a sweet kiss on the cheek before walking out of there. The poor boy could only touch his cheek before tears began to form in his eyes. You hadn't asked him for anything in return, you hadn't blackmailed him, you had really defended him just because you cared about him and nothing else.

He'll probably need a couple of hugs and won't leave your side for the next month.

Nikolai Gogol:

“Have a nice day, sir” you smiled and walked away.

You didn't notice how the only visible eye carefully followed your every movement until you were lost in the sea of people. Only then did the man's mind seem to wake up and race to catch up with what had happened.

Nikolai had been away on errands for Fyodor. It hadn't really taken him long to finish the list, but it was one of those days where he didn't want to go back right away, so he calmly strolled around the city, trying to find the perfect victim to torment, just for fun.

It was at that moment that a couple of people pointed at him and started whispering. Nikolai didn't really care, but then one of the boys came up to him and started teasing him, making fun of his extravagant appearance. It was evident that the poor unfortunate soul didn't know who he was messing with, and the clown smiled evilly, having found his victim.

However, before he could do anything, you showed up, punched the other guy in the face, and started yelling at him for insulting someone just because of his appearances. Nikolai didn't really know how, but you even managed to get the guy to apologize to him before turning to ask him if he was okay. When he assured you that he was alright, you simply smiled and continued your way.

He was very confused. He was Nikolai Gogol, he didn't need to be defended. He knew it, the DOA knew it, everyone knew it! Except you, apparently. He assumed you didn't really know who he was or all the atrocities he had committed, which only confused him more. You had simply defended him because you believed that he was a normal boy who liked to dress extravagantly and that's it.

It was nothing special for you, but for Nikolai it was the beginning of an obsession. No one had defended him before, not even Fyodor (especially Fyodor, tbh). It felt strange, like something warm and soft was spreading across his chest. It was a nice feeling and he desperately needed to feel it one more time. So he started chasing you.

[moneymartin]

teen gf Shauna headcanons pleaseee

🐶 - losergf!shauna hcs

warnings: mostly fluff but a lil smut under the divider :p

a/n: i know u didn’t ask for loser but shauna shipman is soooo loser girlfriend u cannot tell me otherwise. kinda messy and trash… i’m so sleepy rn i’m writing this half awake nd lowk a lil drunk UGH

taglist: @deerlottie @ultrone

my brown eyed beautiful baby where do i even start.

def the most athletic yj i will stand by this till the day i die

MUSCLE MAMAAAA

rolls up the sleeves of her flannels so you can see her muscles pop 😮‍💨

not a gym freak though but she works her arms 100%

cuddlebug fosho

little spoon and you can argue with me about that all you want this girl loves to be held

when she big spoons though she’s burying your face into her chest all the time

she plays with your hair tho no doubt abt it

even when you’re cuddling her instead

super soft kisses all over you while you doze off

sleeps after you do just to make sure cause sometimes you end up sleeping a lil too hard and she needs to make sure you aren’t dead

well thats what she thinks.

wakes up early even though she sleeps the latest out of the both of you

when you sleep for way too long she ends up full on wrestling you until you wake up

music geek

she def loves the smashing pumpkins, radiohead, the cranberries, the cure, mazzy star, jeff buckley, pavement, the cardigans. artists and bands of that genre

had a walkman like nat’s that you guys share on walks together

also has a vinyl player that she keeps at hers so you could listen to music with her when you come over

writes about you in her journal while she listens to the music

also writes these cute little love letters for you and she’ll write what songs she listened to while writing

sleepovers all the time though she’s one of those girls

drives you all over the place too

no matter how far so that you know she truly loves you

she goes absolutely nuts when you’re wearing her clothes i fink

esp her flannels

the moment you’re seen wearing one she can only think about taking it off of you cause it looks so good 😞

loves when you wear her jersey too

or her letterman jacket

funny sock gal

wears the one w monster faces on em or something like that

south park socks… hmo

SMARTY PANTS

got accepted into brown for a reason

she’s always helping you with assignments in case they’re too hard

she runs through them so fast though it actually baffles you to how she can do it

book geek too

has probably read harry potter a million times

edgar allan poe is her main dude she def likes poems and stuff from him

genuinely has a momma instinct

before you even get sick she tells you to be careful with the cold

and you don’t listen.

so you do end up getting sick and she has to take care of you until you’re all better

babies you but is also teasing you cause you didn’t listen to her warnings about it 😭 she could tell beforehand that you were gonna get sick

unlike lottie i think shauna has the ability to cook and stuff like that

not a 5 star chef but she’s good enough for you

being touchy in her public is her thangggg

you guys are always touching somehow

pinky holding, interlocked arms, holding hands, her just grabbing your wrist. she’s always gotta hold you no matter whaaaat

not very possessive but definitely a jealous person

makes it known she’s jealous w her attitude

has those anger issues we all know it

is not afraid to make a scene in front of a bunch of people she will cuss someone out for even looking at you

but she’s just jealous cause she’s really insecure :( poor girl my god

she thinks that the people you talk to are better than she’ll ever be

you have to reassure her countless of times so she can feel better about herself cause she’s always questioning you abt it

she loves little make out seshes behind the bleachers

its def the thrill of being caught like she loves that so much 🥸

when she kisses you she isn’t rough i think she’s very gentle actually

caressing your jaw and cheeks so you know she’s there and its not just some dream 😭

loves sitting on your lap while kissing cause it makes her feel like she’s the one in charge

also cause your hands are always in the spots where she wants them without her having to ask

biting…

teeth marks EVERYWHERE!!!

dom fosho but that’s not relevant rn

during arguments this girl is ruthless

not because she wants to hurt you but it’s because she’s always bubbling up

bottles up everything cause she’s afraid people won’t listen to her

but she’ll apologize eventually after if it looks like whatever she said got to you

won’t mean anything she tells you she just gets so mad at everything cause she can’t express herself as well :(

she regrets it so fast too like she’s immediately saying sorry afterwards

def a lace girly

loves showing off her new sets for you…

red black and white are the favs

OUUHHH

whiny as fuck but also holds her noises in cause she thinks they’re embarrassing

PANTER AND GROANER FOR SUREEEE

switch i think

like if she really wanted to she could top you but she’d rather be a power bottom

have you ride her strap or whatever…

its blue.

loves when you eat her out though cause she gets to pull on your hair

makes you talk her through it and when you’re topping but when she tops shes SO bold

she loves when you praise her thats the only thing she wants to hear from you during it

makes you kiss around her tits for sure

thats where she always wants you to be

when she’s jealous you’re constantly asking if she’s okay which leads into an argument

meaning that it’ll probably lead into really hot angry sex from her

the car scene really spoke to me

initiates everything too

anyways i’m done i’m so tired

[mandarinmoons]

Annabel Lee - Spencer Reid

Hello! This lil' fic was inspired by a video of Matthew reading the poem Annabel Lee by Edgar Allan Poe found here !

Summary: When you're not able to sleep Spencer to throw out ways to help you, but turns out the solution was right in front of you

Warnings: none

I haven't written in a while so pls let me know your thoughts!

For the past week, every time you tried to close your eyes and sleep, you’d be kept up for hours on end. Tossing from one side to the other, trying out an array of different positions to feel comfortable enough to finally catch some rest, nothing would help.

When the issue was brought forth to Spencer he would list out an endless list of suggestions to try and find something that could eventually work

“Hmm let’s see, have you tried herbal-”

“Yes Spencer.”

“Okay, what about…”

You felt your thoughts drift off and eyes grow heavy as Spencer kept listing off different solutions for you to try out in hopes of finally getting some rest. A moment later you were snapped out of your thoughts when you felt a soft shake on your shoulder and were brought back to reality, “You okay Y/N?”. You blinked a few times and gazed at the concerned boy in front of you, realizing that the answer was there right in front of you and a small smile tugged on your lips, “I’m better than ever Spence. I have an idea.”

That night, Spencer came over to your apartment. The weather forecast had predicted heavy rain and when Spencer entered your apartment, you could well see that it had come true. Spencer’s hair was matted to his forehead from the rain and you were surprised he managed to walk all the way there because the rain had completely drenched the lenses of his glasses. You ran to get him a towel and chuckled as you ruffled the fabric over his hair, causing him to smile lightly. 

After fetching him a warm blanket and making him a cup of hot chamomile tea, you both laid in your bed. Spencer brought over a poetry book to read to you and your eyes widened with curiosity. You just thought that you both would talk until you eventually ended up passing out, seeing that Spencer’s voice seemed to soothe you so much to the point of relaxation, but hearing Spencer's idea caused your heart to do a little flip. You thought that it was adorable.

So there you were, head resting in Spencer’s lap as he held a book of various poets' works in his hand. He would occasionally glance down at you and smile sweetly seeing how relaxed you seemed. The piece that finally did it for you was one by Edgar Allan Poe.

As the poem went on you felt your heartstrings being played with so hard that you thought you felt tears prick to your eyes. And the strangest thing of all was that when you looked over at Spencer, you swore you saw him look into your eyes as he kept reading it out loud.

“Of my darling- my darling- my life and my bride,” 

That was it, those were the words that melted your heart and caused your breath to go shaky. A few lines later Spencer finished the poem and he placed the book down and turned his attention to you. His brows furrowed upon seeing your glassy eyes. His hand brushed against your cheek in a comforting way, “Hey you okay?”. 

You nodded and shook your head lightly, “It was a really nice poem, thank you”. Spencer smiled and poked your cheek lightly which caused a small giggle to fall from your mouth.

“Do you think you’ll be able to sleep now?”

You smiled up at him and poked his cheek in return, “Without a doubt.”

You can find my masterlist here! x

My requests are open so feel free to send one in! (SFW only)

[nakoayas]

Maisora Hitomi × Minami Maito Special Talk for Maisora's photobook Sincerely ~my twinkling dreams~

Scanned from my personal collection.

Translated interview by @yuzukahibiscus under the cut!

Maisora: It almost felt like I had been in Flower Troupe for so many years and months, and yet it’s hard to believe that it’s only 3 years. I think the reason I felt that this time felt so meaningful was because of the time I spent together with Minami-san. I wanted to take this opportunity to say what I’m grateful for… so thank you for coming today!

Minami: Thank you for inviting me, I’m very glad to be here (LOL). When Maisora came to Flower Troupe… and when I saw you play Hanna in Hanna’s Florist, I thought “this girl will definitely become a star”. But at the time, since I still saw you as “the underclassman Maisora Hitomi”, we didn’t talk much (LOL).

Maisora: Both Minami-san and I are shy people… (LOL)

Minami: I’m not the type to talk to underclassmen so enthusiastically (LOL).

Maisora: I think our relationship changed because of Minami-san’s starring Bow Hall performance Senhor CRUZEIRO!. When it was announced that I would be in this performance, before we went into our actual rehearsals… I remember that we went to take tango lessons together after our Tokyo performances in our previous Grand Theatre performance (The Poe Clan).

Minami: But at first both of us were very careful. Just wondering, “should we do it…like this…today?” (LOL).

Maisora: Both of us were quite nervous (LOL). This was almost the first time that I’m paired to dance with an otokoyaku, not to mention how difficult the dance genre of tango is… it became a greater challenge. From when we began our rehearsals, there were also other genres of dance I had to perform in various scenes, but every day Minami-san would take the time to practise tango with me. After the various lessons, you would say “Okay, let’s practise tango now!!”

Minami: I thought “let’s go!!!” (LOL). We kept practising. I think in Takarazuka revue shows, rather than just the genre of tango, this concentration for serious choreography between the pairing of otokoyaku and musumeyaku, so they’re quite difficult. In normal Takarazuka dance scenes, I’d say a complimentary effect happens when the otokoyakuk leads the musumeyaku step by step, but tango can’t be made possible if the otokoyaku and musumeyaku aren’t dancing as contrasting equals. Then I started to realise there’s no time to be shy anymore (LOL). We started thinking how we could make the dance look better, and our relationship became one like comrades when we had the same goal.

Maisora: Yes. I couldn’t remember how many times I accidentally stepped on your feet…

Minami: (LOL).

Maisora: You said “Don’t worry about it!’ “It’s okay if you got it wrong, just try it once more!” Every day, I observed how sharp Minami-san was with her dance moves… I think that didn’t impact just me, but also all of our members too.

Minami: No, no, no…

Maisora: During the performances, when I came back to the company every morning before the performances, you were already getting ready (LOL). You were always so diligent on yourself.

Minami: Did that really happen…

Maisora: Since going on stage and going to rehearsals were so different, I still felt nervous over it. I thought, what if I couldn’t dance as I thought I would? But at the time, I thought of overcoming this with an unwavering mindset…

Minami: I felt the same. Because if one of us were uncertain, then the other should support her!

Maisora: You were so fantastic at leading the dance.

Minami: No, Maisora has great sense too. You’re like this now as well, but you have always been straightforward without thinking too much.

Maisora: Because at the time, I didn’t know anything.

Minami: Yes, but that also makes accomplishing things much easier. And your body balance has always been firm. I guess both of us were diligent in body training. I also think that we’re quite passionate the same way we approach things.

Maisora: Yes. I wanted to focus on that scene, because it conveyed a world where only two people remain. Then on the closing day, before I realised it, the scene was already over… Before I noticed it, I was already hearing the audience’s applause.

Minami: The applause was deafening. I was really glad.

Maisora: The moment I heard the applause, I remember how happy I felt to be on stage, that I still remember how it feels now.

Minami: Me too.

Maisora: I was truly happy. And then afterwards, we went on the national tour Melancolique Gigolo / EXCITER!! 2018 in the same year.

Minami: We danced tango as a pair again in the prologue of this show. Because the two of us wanted to show this burning passion, to look cooler than any other couple! (LOL).

Maisora: It was as if we turned this switch on (LOL).

Minami: Yes, yes.

Maisora: You told me, “Dance more, dance more!”, so I said, “Yes, I’m coming!!”

Minami: (LOL). I don’t usually do that. But that’s because I trust Maisora.

Maisora: The “Havana” scene too..!!

Minami: That was fun too. I remember that scene made me realise again, “Wow, Maisora is so good!”

Maisora: No, no, no… I’ve loved EXCITER!! for a long time, so I was really happy to be in this scene in this show that I used to watch a lot. And as the national tour ended, there was the TAKARAZUKA SPECIALS, and the rehearsals for CASANOVA began… what a dizzying schedule.

Minami: That’s true.

Maisora: In which you told me after the TAKARAZUKA SPECIALS was over, “You did great in the national tour, let’s work hard together!”

Minami: Huh, really? I don’t remember that at all (LOL).

Maisora: I thought Minami-san also worked so hard for it too, but hearing your words really made me so happy.

Minami: No, I mean Maisora too was so busy, but didn’t you and Hana Yuuki-chan create this national tour photo album for Rei (Yuzuka) and me? “How cute these girls are”, we thought. Now I still cherish that album. I come to look at it once in a while.

Maisora: Thank you. Later, it was announced that I’d be transferring.

Minami: I was too shocked to hear that…

Maisora: When I told everyone, I remembered Minami-san disappeared elsewhere.

Minami: At that time, I just couldn’t come to accept it… I don’t know (LOL).

Maisora: Even after we were in different troupes, every time we met, it was as if our relationship never changed, since you’d call out to me, “Hey, Maisora!” like that.

Minami: That’s because I still see you as my friend and comrade.

Maisora: Thank you. I’m so grateful. And then time flew by… then came the Hakataza performance Me And My Girl!!

Minami: I was surprised. Hearing from the company that I’d be performing in Star Troupe’s Me And My Girl and Maisora would be playing Sally, I screamed… I even worry if the whole company could hear the echoes of my screaming (LOL). After I became a Senka member, when I heard that my first performance would be with Maisora, I was deeply thankful from the bottom of my heart. How can this destiny be possible, I thought.

Maisora: I was also surprised. Before our rehearsals, together with Akatsuki-san, the three of us went to Hakataza for the interviews.

Minami: That’s right. Both me and Ari-chan (Akatsuki Chisei) were shy (LOL). Thanks to Maisora that we were able to break the ice. I was grateful to spend the time with you two.

Maisora: Then our rehearsals began. You had to play both Bill and Sir John… I can’t imagine how difficult that would be.

Minami: At first, I was like “you’re lying” (LOL). But looking back, that was such a valuable experience. I think Star Troupe members, led by Co-chan (Rei Makoto), were all very energetic and powerful, and that’s exactly how you all were. At first I was really overwhelmed by your power.

Maisora: I remember you telling me that.

Minami: Everyone was so bright and straightforward, so I was inspired by the Star Troupe members’ philosophy of “Let’s give it a try” on anything. While creating the role, I could feel how difficult it was because many seniors performed this performance in the past. And to me, I wanted to bring something out of me, so that I could perform it like how a particular actress did it in my favourite Me And My Girl version. But the director Miki Akio-sensei said, focus on creating the Me And My Girl with these members this time. And then, I was most moved by Maisora’s growth. As a Top Musemayku, you had various experiences… and there must be countless things you have to consider that I didn’t know. But with the guidance from Co-chan and from all members of Star Troupe, I believe you worked even harder. So to feel this Maisora Hitomi was really amazing…

Maisora: Nothing… like that at all. It’s because everyone was guiding me.

Minami: The applause was deafening. I was really glad.

Maisora: Since this was a musumeyaku role I admire, I was concerned and frustrated and couldn’t find myself breaking through this bottleneck, and when I was troubled with these things, Minami-san would kindly guide me along. Since you already knew me back when I knew nothing, so I’m delighted that you could tell me how you really felt or thought when you look at me now.

Minami: Sometimes I find it difficult to express my thoughts if what I say will have a negative effect, but I also believe that there`s no good in being reserved and not telling you... because you`re my comrade Maisora.

Maisora: I’m so thankful.

Minami: Even though it would be great if I took care of myself the same way (LOL). But I certainly feel that the quality of the performance shouldn’t drop. And I think that’s possible because the members were leading me.

Maisora: No, no, I believe that it’s because Minami-san led everyone!! You always cared how everyone was doing… And even though you were already busy with your two roles, you wrote every one of us a letter and gave it to us on the last day of performance, just like what you did during Senhor CRUZEIRO!!.

Minami: Well, there’s that (LOL).

Maisora: You wrote to me, “When I’m with Maisora, there’s nothing I have to worry about and I can tell you everything, and so I’d like to aim higher”. You don’t know how happy that made me feel. Thank you so much (cries).

Minami: Thank you too.

Minami: Earlier, I watched your Music Salon, and it was really amazing.

Maisora: Thank you, for writing such a warm message to me.

Minami: Did I (LOL)? Well, that’s because you sent me a long message first. I hope that you’ll be healthy in mind and body until the end… I’m looking forward to it, that while you may be fighting it to the end, I hope you can accomplish everything and complete your Takarazuka journey to the end.

Maisora: Thank you.

Minami: Ah yes. My fans told me that they found me calling you “Maisora” in a manner with such affection and love… so I hope you understand if I continue calling this as such (LOL).

Maisora: Speaking of that, during Me And My Girl, I think you called me “Hitomi” at some point.

Minami: I did (LOL). Everyone in Star Troupe were surprised to see me calling you “Maisora”... even you told me so. I remember you telling me, “You called Hana (Yuuki)-san as Hana-chan♡ too so why are you calling me ‘Maisora’”... And I had to do my best explaining to you why my affection for each of you was different, but in the end I did call you ‘Hitomi’. I said, “Hitomi, you did well.” But then…

Maisora: It was quite awkward for me to hear that… So I said you can still call me Maisora just fine (LOL).

Minami: And I’m like what… In the end, I’m back to calling you Maisora.

Maisora: (LOL).

Minami: … With that, I hope Maisora will always be Maisora.

Maisora: Okay!! (LOL)

BONUS!!!

Caption: In this photoshoot, since both are splendid dancers, they kept doing more mature and fantastic poses, but... they kept chattering before and after the shoot, and that's the Maitii and Maisora who kept laughing all about.`

[presbierue]

Sometimes I wish Star Wars had gone in a more cultish direction with the First Order because I think having a friendship (an unhealthy, dysfunctional and toxic one) between the First Order triumvirate would have been kinda cute in an off putting way but also a good source of angst and I love angst. Like, cults prey upon those who lack connection and are looking for a sense of purpose, and I think that would have played into the big connection themes in Star Wars.

Like, little Ben Solo looking for belonging, feeling lost and like he cannot possibly measure up to his family legacies and he meets two young people equally driven to live up to Imperial Legacies. Phasma is a common First Order child soldier who fascinated by Boba Fett who did whatever it took to win. She wants to be the best fighter, to be noticed and seen by others, and will do anything for it. She is already well on her way at a young age. Little Armitage Hux has a mild god complex, believing (knowing) that he could make an unbeatable Death Star, that he can fix the weaknesses of his family legacy (less of an unwanted child in this version, more of a single survivor of his bloodline deal) and restore his family name to greatness. He misses his family dearly and resents the hell out of the New Republic quietly though (would probably prefer his actual family back than greatness but lacks EQ to realize this).

Snoke offers Ben everything he wants: like minded peers and a chance to be as great as his family. That would be hard for a teen to turn down, especially as Snoke would be hiddibg the fine print of this deal.

Hux, Phasma and Ben would likely exist for long periods of time with minimal conflict between them as they aren’t direct competitors. Hux does a lot of the planning and scheming, Phasma runs the pragmatic and social game, and Kylo leads the spiritual and visionary role of the group. Yeah they probably quibble over what they specifically want and need for their own power and plans, but it would probably be low grade jabs that teens usually trade in. More “your stormtroopers are well trained in treason” than force choking and blaster fire. Cooperation would be the best way to increase their power and influence.

I feel like having both the good and bad guys have the whole “power of friendship” on their side would have been an interesting dynamic when contrasting them. Rey and Hux both want their families back but can’t have it so they cling to their friends, Finn and Phasma are ultimately just trying to survive in abysmal conditions (one goes high visibility violent to deter others from attacking her where Finn goes avoidant, only fighting long enough to flee), and Kylo and Poe are trying to reconcile their family legacies with their own personalities and abilities. The difference is that the First Order triumvirate is a much older and well defined connection that is adjusting to new changes and pressures; Hux won by the start of TFA he built an even better Death Star (I think having it blow up in the First movie was ultimately the wrong move it would have been more threatening if it hung in for all three movies to emphasize that the First Order isn’t messing around) and that puts pressure on Phasma and Kylo, who are still not at Legendary Boba Fett/Vader levels. Like, your friend rising to the top of the heap before 40 when you’re still trying to reach previous levels would sting. On the other hand, Hux might genuinely resent Kylo for killing Han, because Hux feels his victory is empty without his parents and siblings around to see it. Phasma and Kylo are probably too self conscious and jealous after Starkiller success to actually acknowledge that Hux did the thing until like movie 3 when there might be some emotional resolution for that group, so Hux is probably just sitting with a hollow victory all movie 2 and is now just fully depressed as the one thing he thought would make him happy didn’t. This could be resolved by end of movie 3 or blow up in their faces when their relationship can’t hack the pressures anymore.

Flip that to the tensions you could do with Rey, Finn and Poe. Poe feels like his mother and other rebellion sacrifices were for nothing since the First Order took over in like a week, so he feels like a failure which results in him taking bigger and bigger risks, threatening his own life. This freaks out Rey who is PETRIFIED of losing the people she cares about again, and Finn goes to an avoidant attachment style where he starts trying to not care about either of them and does a Han Solo Hoth exit (he comes back again quickly but it freaks Rey out even more so she’s not ending the middle movie in a good place). I think the end moral ends up being something like “Avoiding one kind of pain leads to another, be open about what you’re going through so people can help because you’re never completely alone” kinda thing. Maybe you can’t be the perfect Jedi who avoids fear entirely, but fear is a gift that tells you what you care about and you can work with that. The First Order Triumvirates cardinal sin is that they’re pursing outdated markers of success and security that they think will protect them and the people they care about, but it worsens their relationships and self worth instead.

IDK man this feels like an AU that I could develop into a full rework of the sequels but it is half baked at best. I just think it would be fun to Rey and Finn screeching at Luke to give them combat training while the whole time Luke is just bouncing Grogu and other Jedi younglings around and asking them “So do you feel like you can really trust each other, or do you trust that the other is useful in filling a gap in your own life?”. Just relationship counselling the shit out of everyone. Like, recontextualize the whole “can you control the darkness in yourself” Yoda question as “can you build a support network strong enough to support you and your loved ones when you feel the darkness”. Because while Leia, Han and Luke all tried that, they built networks that only worked for them, not the people they loved, which resulted in isolation and deterioration of their relationships over time (Leia rebuilt Alderaan, Han built a semi legal shipping company and Luke built his Jedi school, but none of those things had room for the people they loved).

Edit: also, it adds a degree of Kylo having to think it through at the end where he either has to actively destroy Phasma and Hux, the people he is closest to or back down. He has to actively do all the things that made Vader as miserable as he was (lose a parent, kill the one he loves most, betray his mentor/father figure) to HIMSELF. And that’s an interesting question: is this character actually resilient enough to go through what Vader did? Can you do it completely alone, with the knowledge that no one else could do this to you but you? When does self hatred become that destructive?

[lolia21]

Well I feel down a Sanders Sides rabbit hole and now I have one fan fic idea that keeps playing in my head:

Remus and Roman are twins but they don't attend the same school because Remus was... himself and his parents were kindly asked to transfer him to a school that "fits his personality better". So he goes to a school a whole district over. He gets along with Roman and he loves him but they are very different people so they don't hang out a lot. Remus also can't stand the blatant favoritism they're parent give Roman. He thinks it's sweet that Roman tries to tap it down but it doesn't change anything.

Sp Remus spends most of his free time at his friend Janus house with his other friend Virgil. Janus also shouldn't be attending their school cause he's loaded but he hated the prep school he was sent to and transferred behind his parents back. Money can get you literally anything. Expect real friends which is why Janus loves Remus and Virg so much. Virgil is actually living at a near by boys home. As a kid his home situation wasn't great and he doesn't talk about it a lot. He ended up at Sanders House four years ago though and it's not too bad.

So anyway Roman has never meet Remus' friends and Remus has never met Roman's friend Patton and Logan. Whenever they come over is always at Janus' house. He knows they exist just like Roman knows Virgil and Janus do but they've not met in person over the last two years.

So it all starts pm a long weekend because Halloween is Friday. ( fun fact my school in gerogia gave us Halloween and Valentines off and used it as teacher workshop days.)

So of course the dark side trio is hype, roaming the mall, scaring people, judging costumes, and trying to find accessories to improve their own.

The light side trio is also their because Patton waited too late to get a "decent" (Roman's words) costume, and Logan was hoping to avoid getting one at all.

The crowds get so bad that everyone is separated. Luckily both sides actually have designated met spots, tho for very different reasons. The darks sides met spot is the horror section at Barnes and Nobles. It's large enough that Virgil won't feel claustrophobic and he can read some Poe while he waits and not have people constantly asking if he needs assistance. It was a place chosen, so he doesn't have a panic attack while he waits for his friends since he's the only one without a phone.

On the other had the light side trio chose the lgbtq+ teen romance section as their meet spot. Mainly Because it'll distract Roman enough that he won't get bored of waiting and wonder out to find his friends before they get there. Defeating the purpose of the spot all together.

You can see where this is going.

Patton has been trying to get on the elevator for the last five minuets but everyone time he tries to get on the same time as someone else he let's them all go first and theres no room for him. This goes on until a nice but kinda rude stranger just days "oh my gawd" and pulls him in as he in goes in. The stranger honestly looks way to well dressed to be here and doesn't even introduce himself. He just starts playing on his phone and Patton doesn't know whether saying thank you would be annoying or not. Janus on the other hand is texting Remus about how just met someone who reminds him a little of freshman Virgil and how he hopes he's not freaking out.

Logan has decided to take the stairwell because he knows that people arr less likely to use it over the escalators or elevators. He looks a floor above him and someone who kinda sorta looks like Roman sliding down the railing on his ass and laughing the whole time. He barely has time to dodge as someone yells " dodge nerd" and flies past him. Honestly Logans so surprised by whatever the hell that was that it take him two whole ass minutes to start walking again. Remus is just having a blast. He didn't think this would work and he saw a pretty cute nerd on the way down.

Roman is having a complicated time. He lgbtq teen romance section is usually in the front if the store but it's been switched with the horror section for the month. So here is is not being able to decide whether he should just stay here because the ia the physical spot he normals what's at or go the the actual section with all the books about the boys kissing that he likes to read. Virgil on the other hand is on the virge (ha) of kinda freaking out. He's happy that the sectionnis getting more love, even if it's only for money. But he liked that it was in the back and away from the crowds of people coming in and out. Not to mention theirs someone dude dresses like a prince yelling on the phone to someone named Patton about whether he should "go to the section of love and acceptance or stay in emo hell". Virgil is insulted enough by this to tell him Roman to please stop yelling and go to whatever section isn't here. Roman rolls his eyes calls him knock off Gerard way and ignores him. Virgil completely forgets how nervous he was becuase now his piss3d and they get into an arguments.

It ends when Patton walks in and calls for Roman at the same time that Janus calls in and calls for Virgil. They look to their friend seemingly coming in together and are about to complain to their respective friends when Janus, Virgil and Roman here a familiar voice go

"Brobro what are you doing here. Hey Jan, hey virge," and Remus walks in completely unaware of the fighting that was just happening. Virgil tries to actually get a good like at this guy's face and realizes that without the make up and general zanny disposition he does look a lot like Remus. Before anyone can respond tk that, an another person asks

"OH God Roman what did you do? Who are they?" And of course it's Logan.

So now are dark sides are standing on one side and all the lights on the other. As the two siblings and their two different friend groups collide. Teen hurt, comfort and angst ensues.

[hux-and-gay]

Kylux Short Shorts Fest 2024; Day 1: Vacation

—————————————————————————

Kylux Summer Vacation (Crack Fic)

this translates way better as a comic but comics take time. So i wrote more a script then a fic. maybe I’ll make a comic later or maybe some kind soul wants to waste their time doing it for me. I don’t really care anyway, not to toot my own horn, but this is really funny. I was thinking of the Lego Star Wars specials when I wrote this so picture that vibe. Hehehehehe

pls pls reblog! I dont have AO3 yet

Warning: Suggestive content, brief nudity (it’s played off as a joke)

Kylo: (announcing triumphantly, fist in the air) We’re going on vacation! 

Hux: (sounds unfazed) What? 

Kylo: (repeats previous gesture) We’re are going on vacation!

Hux: (no even looking up from his datapad) We’re in the middle of a war. We can’t just leave on vacation. 

Kylo: My grandfather went on vacation…

(Teary eyed dreamily looking off into the distance picturing the scene from the Lego Star Wars summer vacation special where Vader is being forced to apply palpitate’s sun screen) 

Hux: Oh so that’s what this is about. (Shakes his head) Predictable. Well we can’t. 

Kylo: (Angrily/Whiny) Why! 

Hux: I dont have time for this (Starts walking off)

Mitaka: (comes in, stopping him by the door) Sir… Did you authorize 30,000 credits worth of first order funds to be spent on (squints at his datapad) “Beach fun surprise?”

Hux: (looking up angrily) No! What even is that?!

Mitaka: (nods awkwardly) right I’ll cancel i-

Kylo: No! (Stepping forward) I authorized the purchase! (Turning to Hux dramatically) There’s no turning back now general! (Pointing to each person as he speaks) I’m taking you, and Phasma, and Mitaka, and… (points at a random dude walking by) THAT GUY, and we’re going on vacation!

That guy: Uhm sir I don’t even work here… I’m just visiting my wife…

Kylo: LETS GO! (Marching forward) 

~Later at the beach~

Kylo: (walking up to Hux wearing his helmet  and swim trunks that are definitely too small for him) Why are you wearing a shirt? 

Hux: (eating a suspiciously shaped popsicle) Why aren’t you? 

Kylo: (leans back) isn’t that like, constricting? 

Hux: You’re just trying to get me to take my shirt off. 

Kylo: What? No! (Clearly lying) 

Phasma: (walking by) I’d take this off if I was allowed too (gesturing towards her sports bra style top) 

(#free the nip)

(They both just blink at her stunned before she walks away and then they turn back to their arguing) 

Kylo: I still think you should take it off (huffs)

Hux: Then take off your helmet! (Pokes it)

Kylo: (crosses his arms) I dont want sunburn! 

Hux: The rest of you is practically naked! 

Mitaka: (rushing up carrying way more than one man should carry) Sir? 

Kylo: (not noticing Mitaka) I could arrange that! but I don’t think this is that kind of beach!

Mitaka: (trying to get Hux’s attention) Where did you want this sir? (Holding up all the stuff some of it falls out of his hands) 

(Still not noticing Mitaka the two of them glare at each other and Hux menacingly bites off the tip of the popsicle which has now melted all over his hand) 

~Seconds later~

Kylo: (pointing) oh look beach hockey!

Hux: (deadpan) No

Kylo: (Pointing) look there’s limbo!

Mitaka: (Still trying to get their attention) Sir this is kind of heavy…

Hux: (deadpan) No 

Kylo: Live music? (Gestures to the stage, where, idk, the Cerveza Cristal meme is playing or something)

Hux: Too loud 

Kylo: There’s a bar? 

Hux: I suppose that’s fine 

Mitaka: Sir?! 

(They start walking to the bar where Phasma already is) 

Mitaka: Why do I even bother (Sighs) 

(Meanwhile at the bar. Kylo has his helmet off now. the group was drinking (Cerveza Cristal!… No! Stop! You already made that joke!) when they see familiar faces walk onto the beach)

Kylo: Well look who it is (smirks) 

Phasma: The resistance scum (scoffs) 

Hux: How convient, you’d think this was a Crack fic (looking directly at you) 

Poe: (sauntering up) Hey Hugs 

Hux: (immediately standing to go) That’s it we’re leaving! Vacation over! 

Poe: (leaning on the counter) That’s a shame, we were just going to invite you all to a not so friendly game of beach volleyball. Right Finn? (nudges him) 

Finn: uhhhh… right. 

Poe: (whispers) Sound more confident 

Finn: (Yells) Right! we’re gonna beat your asses into the sand bitches! (Whispering to Poe) Was that too much? 

Kylo: Good luck trying. (Smirks standing up) It just so happens that… I don’t like sand~ (Turning to the others) Are the rest of you with me? 

Mitaka: (panting running up) I Just put everything down sir! 

Hux: (not noticing Mitaka again, setting his drink down) Well I suppose… if it’s a challenge (smirks)

Phasma: (cracking her knuckles) Oh I think it’s time they met the true power of the first order~

Poe: Good come meet us on the beach! (He gestures and runs off, Finn following, flipping them off as he goes. The others get up from the bar laughing and heading towards the beach) 

Mitaka: (exasperated) Did I miss Something?  —————————————————————————

(Look i could write out the volley ball match but I’m lazy so if someone wants to pick this up have at it) 

~Later that day~

Kylo: (running down the beach to join Hux in the water) Wait for me! 

(Hux’s shirt isn’t off but it’s open) 

Hux: (standing in the water, raising an eyebrow) Do you even know how to swim 

Kylo: Pfft, yeah totally!

Hux: That sounded oddly suspicious but if you say so (shrugs) 

Kylo: (walking very slowly into the water) Yeah I definitely learned how to swim, that’s definitely something I did, I mean like, it’s easy, I’m not a pussy!

Mitaka: (standing beside Hux) Is it just me or does it sound like he’s trying to reassure himself instead of you? 

Hux: (nonchalant) oh yes, that’s exactly what it sounds like. 

Mitaka: If he can’t swim shouldn’t we stop him? 

Hux: Let him try, it will amuse me (smirks) 

(Kylo goes deeper in the water, even deeper than the two of them, probably to prove a point) 

Kylo: I’m… I’m doing it! (A wave crashes into him) Fuck! I’m not doing it!  (He starts flailing and splashing wildly even though where he is definitely isn’t that deep)

Mitaka: (looks concerned) Sir I believe he’s going under. 

Hux: He’ll be fine. 

Mitaka: I Really dont think he will be…

(long awkward scilence)

Hux: He’s drowning isn’t he? 

Mitaka: It appears that way. 

Hux: Ugh fine! 

(He goes after him and Drags him out which is definitely a struggle) 

Hux: (dragging him by his foot onto the beach) Why are You So fucking heavy?! (Looking up to Phasma who’s tanning on the Shore) Thank you so much for your help Phasma!

(Phasma Holds up a drink nodding to them) 

Hux: (sets him down on the wet sand) Well he’s breathing (slaps him on the face) 

Kylo: (coming to, spitting out ocean water) Hey! That wasn’t mouth to mouth… (looks down disappointed) 

Hux: (sarcastically) Oh no! he stopped breathing guess I can’t save him! 

Kylo: (glancing at himself) Oh! my shorts fell off in the water, and your kind of straddling me so- 😏

Hux: (glances down instinctively and quickly looks back up) Mitaka? 

Mitaka: Yes sir? 

Hux: Google if It it’s legal to feed someone to the sharks.

~The end~

That Guy: Has anyone seen my wife yet?

@lessdenied @fives-ren @jaynesilver @thegeneralorder @diabollicallyangelic

@existing-sadly

@theosb0rnway

@dragonflies-draw-flame @hpdmism @fridayincarnate @tomatette

@transmasc-vampire-is-tired

@bostarsky

@kyluxshortshorts

[dreamkidddream]

Random Domestic Headcanons with Ranpo

Random headcanons bc I needed/wanted some fluff with Ranpo ☺️ reader is gender neutral!

Living with Ranpo may seem stressful looking from the outside in, but it wasn’t surprisingly

…don’t be fooled though, it wasn’t always easy

It wasn’t a secret that Ranpo could be a massive man child, but you both had a set system in the apartment- a peaceful routine that worked well for the both of you, despite his…setbacks

It always amazed you that despite him being the smartest detective alive, he couldn’t do the simplest of things- for example, laundry

If you love your clothes- please I beg you do not let him wash your clothes

He did it once and you were left with an…interesting wardrobe for the entire week- as comical as it was, you would prefer your usual clothes over the mess that Ranpo made (and tried to fix- as comfortable as it was wearing his coat, you couldn’t wear it forever)

So now you’re the one in charge of washing and Ranpo is in charge of folding! Sometimes he would try to wash on his own but you snatch the detergent out of his hands before he could even pour anything

It still baffles your mind at how he managed to survive this long

He complains about doing housework, and sometimes you would have to entice him to get it done (whether it be the promise of extra snacks or a kiss)

But that’s not to say that Ranpo’s useless- far from it actually

Grocery shopping is a breeze thanks to him- anything you think you’re forgetting, he already knows. His memory is scarily accurate to where he’s already putting it in the basket before you could even think about it. Just remembered that you forgot something at the register? Don’t worry, Ranpo already has it on the counter ready to be scanned

He also puts in a lot of snacks in the cart- and I mean a lot- but you let him get away with it since you love him (although you do have to limit him sometimes since he can go a bit overboard)

Your snacks is his snacks pretty much- but he does share (some) of it with you, even if it’s already missing a bite out of it

Ranpo likes to help you cook! And his way of helping is to taste test everything along the way- which you don’t mind since it is one of the ways that you bond and he does give good feedback when his mouth isn’t full anymore

Eating together is a must! Whether he’s bragging about how dumb the officers acted today or the new mystery that Poe wrote for him, it was always shared over meals together. It was one of the main ways you guys spent quality time together

He would help wash the dishes afterwards

Nights after work would include watching a low-budget crime show and solving it before the show is over (even if Ranpo already knew who the culprit was as soon as the show began, it was still fun- same with a movie), playing his game together, giving a hand at Poe’s new novel, etc.- anything to keep you both entertained and that helps de-stress from the day, he’s down to do (as long as it doesn’t require a lot of work)

Regardless, Ranpo is fine just being surrounded by you after work. Even if he didn’t have to put in much effort at the agency, it still felt good to unwind with you- just having you by his side or in his arms was more than enough

You guys have matching toothbrushes!! It’s childish enough to be his idea, but it’s actually yours

He also lets you take a shower first or even better- bathing together. Its not even in a sexual manner- it’s a moment that both of you are vulnerable together and could actually relax. Taking turns washing each others backs and hair was a form of tranquility that couldn’t be replaced, especially on a rough day

Ranpo is fine being either the little spoon or the big spoon, but he’s mostly the big spoon. You guys switch it up depending on what’s wanted, but most of the time you end up tangled with one another anyway by the time morning comes

Before he leaves for the day (or after you drop him at the agency), he will not let you leave until he gets his kiss. He’ll whine if you forget and won’t let you leave until you remember why- he says that it helps him get through the day, and he’s not lying

He can be selfish at times, but Ranpo really does care for you. He makes sure to put your badge with your train card by the door so that you don’t forget, he saves an extra stick of his pocky for you since it’s your favorite, and he waits for you outside of your office to walk home together (even if Kunikida or Atsushi had to lead him there)

Most of all, he makes sure that you know how much you mean to him. Whether it’s through quality time or his words that he would whisper in the late hours of the night after pressing his lips against yours, he makes sure that you know- and that you don’t forget

[liauditore]

Heya! If you feel like it, you had mentioned in the Gem Scott and Etho minor plot doodles post that people could ask about some characters from your traffic x arcane au, so...

I request a small blurb (or however much you feel like talking about) for 1-3 of the following characters' roles in/from your au:

Skizz, Ren, Cleo, Pearl, any one of the non-lifer hermits.

This can totally come after Joel (or not at all), but figured I'd prompt! It seems like a fun au, and its fun to look at au characters and why they are the way they are.

yessss of course!!

two other ppl asked about pearl right after I posted that so I'll be drawing her next and skipping out on talking about her for now. I think I ended up making her role a little too packed in my head anyway so it might be good for me to think a bit more before I commit to anything.

I have no idea how to content warning this so. The usual arcane themes (gang violence, sex work, drug use, etc) under the cut.

Skizz is an enforcer, inspired by the poe poe thing on Hermitcraft right now lol. He's his usual lovable oaf self, very much the local "Mr Policeman" all the Piltie kids think is fun and cool. However he is still an enforcer and from time to time will do scary stuff, like share work stories where he's injured and killed civilians and laugh the whole way through. Despite his reputation as a meat-head, he's got quite a few friends in academia, including this AU's Tango and Impulse. I imagine that if this was a fic/show we'd see him the most from Jimmy's POV, since this AU's Jimmy is a Zaunite academy student and that would make him and Skizz's relationship. Nuanced, I think, is the word to use.

Ren I'll be honest I initially thought about as a joke but it stuck. He's a failed proto-Warwick who got the wolf features and super strength and so on but is also just some guy. Most people just assume he's Vastayan. He has no memories of his life pre-experimentation but he's also pretty happy with where he is, since he gets a ticket to topside via working for Cleo.

Cleo is the topsider referenced in Scott's post. When she was young, Cleo tried to help a revolutionary group of Zaunites, which lead to the deaths of many Piltovans including her family. Driven by a desperate need to right what she's done, Cleo becomes a councilor with a desire to improve people's lives her way this time. She makes frequent trips down to Zaun and it's on one of these trips when she meets a young Scott, who she sees herself in. Scott's betrayal of his group of friends was very much his own doing, but Cleo definitely made him more comfortable doing it and afterwards provided him with the resources necessary to become a chem-baron. Through him, she believes she's earned some control over Zaun and she wholeheartedly believes Scott's leadership will lead to a better future.

As for the non-lifer hermits, there are a few I've thought about!

Beef is a pretty well-established chem-baron who runs casinos in both Zaun and Piltover. He's originally from Noxus and met Etho during the Noxian-Ionian invasion, despite the rough start the two have since become friends and he's the reason Etho ends up in Zaun in this AU at all. He claims he's retired from his days of battle, but those who have crossed him know he still packs a punch.

Zedaph isn't exactly a chem-baron but a Zaunite menace regardless. Known for his love of puzzles and messing with chemicals other people are too scared to look in the direction of, he plays a similar role to Singed when it comes with supplying Shimmer and gadgets to anyone who pays him enough for it. Despite his shady past (and present) he ends up endearing himself to Impulse, Tango and Skizz and ends up being more or less adopted into their group.

Doc is very similar to Viktor in the pre-Arcane lore. The children of Zaun tell scary stories about him and the bunker he lives in, daring eachother to go in as tests of courage. Doc himself isn't exactly the dangerous sort, though, just very grumpy and dramatic. He has a passion for all things technology and spends the majority of his days making synthetic limbs, weapons and other gadgetry. He hates the chem-barons and their goons can pry his tech from his cold, dead hands if they want a piece. Luckily for Doc, his reputation and Vastayan appearance frighten potential extortioners away.

False is pretty much just ESMP False. The sisters' father was a Piltovan merchant, their mother a Zaunite prostitute. The older False ("our" False, technically), is a retired enforcer now taken over her father's business. She campaigns for peace between the cities, but also further militarization of Piltover in response to increasingly violent attempts at revolution by Zaun and potentially hostile forces like Noxus. The younger False (ESMP False) spends her days stealing her twin sister's identity for various nefarious purposes -- many of which involve her job as a hitman, one of the few in Zaun that can get close to Pilties others can't lay a finger on. The sisters are estranged and the older False denies the younger's mere existence, in fears it would destroy her life if people found out. Both are good friends with Ren and he hasn't figured out that they're two different people yet.

Skizz and Cleo I will definitely explore more in the future, the rest are more or less world building and side plots.

[n0t-vzin1s]

bf!ranpo x gn!reader

----------------------------

surprisingly

ranpo has been in a relationship

although he broke it off when it became too much work lol

so when you ask him out..

he refuses.

ELEVEN TIMES.

until finally he's like

"one date"

but that turns into you officially being his s/o

when he took you on your date, he took you to a candy shop, spent 92$, went to the park, ate all of it while playing 20 questions

yes i've thought about this

so everyone knows how he keeps candy at his desk?

he constantly shares with you

it's his gestures of love

but he refuses to share with anyone other than possibly kenji

speaking of love

he was the first one to say i love you

he just let it slip one day and was like

"ah, well, i already know you love me too so whatever"

when you sleep over at ranpo's apartment

you notice that there's a lot of night lights

and it doesn't take you long to realize he's afraid of the dark

ranpo needs constant attention

and if that isn't possible

constant praise.

he thinks highly of himself, and if you do as well?

he'll be damned, he feels like he's king of the goddamn world

ranpo constantly has you in his lap.

not even in that way

he just likes to know that you're RIGHT there

when you get in an argument

he's the first one to apologize

but he'll NEVER admit he was wrong

because was he? let's be real here

ranpo probably has a ten step skincare routine

he doesn't drink a lot of water

rather stuff with a lot of sugar

so you constantly have to remind him to drink water

ranpo is afraid of needles

so if he ever has to go to the dr

you bet your ass you have to go with him and hold his mf hand

the dr just looks at you like (´⊙ω⊙`)

ranpo isn't as extravagant as everyone else

but he is ROMANTIC

when he's feeling up to it i mean

i'm talking late night walks in the park!!

my standards are so low.

he'd probably ask poe to get the both of you stuck in one of his novels

LOVEZ watching crime shows with you hit ultimately ends up figuring out who the murder is

and then proceeds to scream at the tv for the next half hour

ending it with "i told you"

if you dare tell him that they can't hear him, you'll never hear the end of it.

you and ranpo probably adopt every stray cat on the streets you see

but sadly

you cannot keep all of them.

but you did keep two!!

this little tabby and her orange boyfriend who you begged ranpo not to split up

i feel like ranpo can paint and idk why

like water colours

before you got together, he painted you

and when he gave it to you, you were like "omg thank you so much"

and we're on the verge of tears because of how much you loved it

and that's when you asked him out

ranpo has a cat stuffed animal that fukuzawa gave him that he sleeps with

he also has a pit stuffed animal that yosano gave him

..and a cow that kenji gave him.

all in all, the entire agency gives him gifts constantly

he likes to watch your favourite shows with you but ends up falling asleep on your shoulder

ranpo carrie's crystals for good luck

on dates with you, he brought rose quartz (for love)

you have to remind him to eat healthy 90% of the time

also likes to watch interior decorating shows because he thinks he could do it better

his apartment looked like ass before you moved in

he's tried to eat the lava in lava lamps on more than one occasion

let's just say the hospital definitely knows who you are by now

----------------------------

btw, anyone's free to send in a request! i love being able to do them :)

like six hours later and i'm just realizing i forgot to tag this

[ticklish-n-stuff]

Title not found

I love how I said I'd write ler Dazai and then I proceeded to spawn this in the span of like 3 secs-💀

What does that say about me? That im very lee for Poe

___________________________________________

Poe x gn!reader (romantic)

Lee: reader

Ler: Poe

Warnings: Tickles!

___________________________________________

You had always wanted to give writing a try, especially after watching your partner write countless novels to defeat his rival. But you just wanted to do it for fun, and what better time to start than now during summer?

It was all going great, your boyfriend made you your own little nook besides his own desk with enough pen and paper to write 'till your hearts content! Except there was one problem...

"Ugh!" you let out a loud grunt of annoyance as you crumbled yet another piece of paper and chucked it to the trashbin.

"What's wrong, love?" Poe looked up at you from his own desk, setting his manuscript aside to tend at you.

"These stupid words won't write themselves!" you pouted like a 'lil kid, even crossing your arms and slouching on your seat. This only made Poe chuckle at your little outburst.

"Why, that's part of the process!" he tried to encourage, but your pout only grew heavier as you tilted your head away from him. A small frown crossed his face as he scooted closer to you. "What seems to be the problem, dear?".

"I don't know... it's just so hard...!" you whined out, throwing your hands up in frustration. "I didn't think it'd be this complicated to write a story..." a soft sigh escaped your lips. "How do you do it?".

"W-well... there isn't a concrete answer for that... But I assure you, with time it'll get easier." he said with a soft smile but noticed you were still all sour. "Hmm... what if you set that aside for now and take your mind elsewhere? Maybe approaching it with a clear mind will help".

"Fine..." you softly grumbled out, comedically plopping yourself down across Poe's lap. His face turned brighter at the sight of you sprawled all cutely over his lap. "Blegh! You reek of raccoon..." you teased him playfully, causing him to let out a mock gasp of offence.

"You have a point there..." he let out a chuckle, his eyes glowing when he saw you smiling up at him. "You're so pretty when you smile...~" he suddenly spoke in a more affectionate tone. It caught you by surprise, making your cheeks flush. You tried hiding your ever-growing grin behind your hand. "Aww, don't hide. I wanna see that adorable smile of yours" he tried gently prying your hands away, both of you giggling at the playful back and forward. "Fine, you wanna be stubborn? I'll just t-tickle you then!~". He'd usually get flustered by the t-word, but in this case he had an objective in mind, seeing that smile (and maybe hear those adorable snorts of laughter).

Before you could process what he said, your eyes widened as Poe's fingers started to delicately dance across your midriff. The flood of giggles was too strong to keep intact and they soon started to pour out while you kept your hand stubbornly stuck on your face and tried using your free one to playfully swat his own away.

"As adorable as those giggles are, I still want to see that smile~" you could see the teasing grin grow on your boyfriend's face as his fingers climbed up and down your sides like tiny spiders, occassionally giving your ribs a quick prod to get you to squeak.

"GyaHAha! P-Poe, t-this isn't fahahair!" you complained through your giggle fit. Your cheeks, all the way down your neck, starting to turn red in embarrassment.

"Now dear, I never said I played fair~" without further warning, he shot his wiggly fingers under your arms.

"WAH-! WAHAHAIT! S-STYAHAHAP!!" you thrashed and kicked your legs around. Your body practically bouncing in his lap. You couldn't hold it anymore and your arms soon cane crashing down. Poe let out a gasp at the sight of your smile, feeling his cheeks heat up a bit as he stopped tickling you.

"Your smile is... so beautiful" he spoke with a warm smile or his own forming. Your smile was so big and bright, nothing in this world could convince him otherwise of how highly he thought of it. He then snapped back to reality "O-oh, sorry! Did I take it too far...?" he asked concernedly, helping you sit up straight and rubbing soothing circles along your back.

"Ehehe... yeah, I'm fine" you replied with that same smile that always made his heart swoon for you without fail. "Actually, I think that just gave me an idea!~" you cheered out as you quickly went back to writing.

Poe looked a bit puzzled at first but decided to shrug it off, everyone gains inspiration in one way or another. "Glad I could help" he placed a gentle kiss on your temple before returning to his own desk, excitedly waiting to see what you'd cook up for him.

___________________________________________

Haha ler Poe am I right

[not-so-allegiant-general]

Meeting the Starkiller! I finally had some time.

Previous parts: MEETING 1| MEETING 2 |MEETING 3|POE DAMERON

MEETING 4

"General." Lucien nodded entering the room. Hux snorted. This man was really something else. Hux could easily imagine… He blinked and eyed Lucien carefully. Yes… He could easily imagine…

"Good morning, Lucien" He hummed.

"I talked to Poe Dameron. He told me that you two are talking, which is… a surprise for both of us. But he… Looked kinda shaken."

"I liked talking to him. He was honest." Hux was surprised by his own words but well that was indeed the truth. He liked talking to Dameron. Because the pilot was honest. He was talking openly about everything, not hiding anything, and that was somehow… New. Hux was wondering how does it feel to be like that. Fearless.

"Well… What were you talking about ?'

"None of your business,"

"It's taped you aware right?"

"Then watch it." He sipped his nutritional shake. Lucien sighed. Why did he expect that well-rested Hux will be less stubborn?

"Alright. Since you obviously feel much better maybe we can go back to the main topic."

"Great. I woke up. And I was bored. I ate. And I was bored. And then guess what? I was bored."

Lucien pinched his nose bridge and it was delightful. Hux smiled watching him, with actual amusement in his eyes. Now. That's entertaining.

"Another stressful, scary meeting, Lucien?"

"Alright. I will get for you something to read if you start cooperating."

"Deal. But my stage of cooperation will depend on the quality of it."

"And what will get me the highest cooperation."

"A notebook and a pen. Appreciate that I am not pushing it and asking for datapad."

"Nobody of a sound mind would give you a datapad here. A notebook and a pen. And I will get it for you if you will cooperate today. Do we have a deal?"

"Yes."

"Good."

"Already regretting fixing my sleep schedules aren't you?"

"No. It is good that you are well rested and that you eat" but his eyes were screaming YES I DO. Hux smiled smugly and sat straight looking at him. Waiting for the move. Lucien gathered his thoughts for a brief moment and put his datapad aside. "You said damaged. Why? Is it about your life in general or… Some particular aspect?"

" It's… Yes." Lucien blinked.

"Yes? To what?"

"I don't know. And it's not my lack of cooperation. I just can't tell you something that I don't know. I just always felt that way. Because I was always the one from whom something was taken. " his mother, his safety, his life, his work, his lover, his freedom. "And I know why I am that way. I don't need you to come up to some big realization or turn in my life. The game you are trying to play here was already played. Again and again. I accepted it long ago how I am. " I had someone who accepted it then. " Because after certain things there is no coming back, right Lieutenant or was it something higher? Captain maybe? “

Looking into Lucien's eyes was divine. He froze looking at Hux, redhead smiled and didn’t look away. Instead, he leaned glaring at Lucien with pure joy “Ah. There it is. Let me think. You are a trained medic… They did not cage you so I would bet it was either Lieutenant and you cooperated well or FOSB as their archives are hard to crack they might not have access to it… And I would say it’s FOSB, you were always keen on messing around with people’s heads am I right? Long Imperial tradition. Loyalty officer wandering around Renovated Republic as who? What lie did you sell them, Lucien?”

Lucien stood up without another word and left his cell. Hux smiled with satisfaction, but there was something bitter to it.

He sat there victorious, but the only company he had were four empty walls.

Next part: coming soon!! 👀👀

[borisbubbles]

Eurovision 2023: #18

18. AUSTRIA Teya & Salena - "Who the hell is Edgar?" 15th place

Decade ranking: 51/116 [Above Ronela, below Jeangu]

OOOOOH MIO PADRE, I'VE GOTTA ROAST ME SOME BARBIES, ooooooooooh no.

It does NOT pay to be funny, sadly. Yeah, I wish I didn't have to go there, but sometimes the stars just don't align. With Loreen and Pasha being reunited and the year generally being mediocre, Liverpool 2023 already had enough parallels with Baku 2012. The "preshow obsession has a disappointing live" part I could have done without.

Like seriously. Was there ever a more slam-dunk end of contest favourite for me than TeyaLena? (well other than You Know Who, but we'll get there). My recent faves were Think About Things, Shum and In Corpore Sano. All uptempo, all enjoyable, all secretly very clever entries, eating and mothering (or in Da­ði's case brothering) as THE act on everyone's lips as the dust settled. Edgar was one of two entries who could have been The One for this year!!! But as Poe Poe Poe became Poo Poo Poo I'm forced to pack up my praise pen and bring out my critical analysis quill :-/

Fortunately, like the ladies, I am such a good writer, so enjoy this lengthy review, which is more like a vivisection:

ON THE FLAWS OF 'WHO THE HELL IS EDGAR?'

The first instinct would be to say that the song was impossible to bring, but I don't buy into that logic. "Edgar" was great, a vision, and absolute fucking BANGER. That's the hill, I'll die on. Despite the flaws of its live, I will always cherish it as a song.

Granted, the song was a lot of things at once. That's what made it both iconic and live liability. You try to explain to a layman casual audience member what Edgar is about. How it satirizes the music industry. How self-deprecating it is. What an API is. What an A&R is. What the 0.003 stands for. Now do that in the THIRTY SECONDS TIME FRAME it takes for the video teaser to play. You can't. You can be the best commentator or the most eloquent eurovision-obsessed guncle. Also, you're making me think with your words. Thinking bad. ME WANT ENJOY SHOW. ME WANT GOOD TIME, NO THINK.

So, there's two approaches you can take here, if you play to win.

The first by embracing the campness and going full ham, which how the televote countries would handle it. Your Moldovas, Ukraines, Finlands, Serbias, Norways. Hand Edgar over to one of them, and TeyaLena would start bent over a laptop or typewriter, harrassed by ravens or men in Edgar Allen Poe costumes, who would so a possessed zombie dance while TeyaLena try to escape the clutches.

Naturally, such an act requires less effort from the performers and could be seen as an easy cop-out by juries (die, juries!) and result in a loss of points and well, Austria don't play that way. Austria don't have a built in televote base and feel they are better off playing for the same juries that would normally reject an Edgar.

So instead they went for option two: embrace the hyperpop and try to build momentum off its hyperactivity. Fair enough, that's less interesting and safe, but a valid choice that can result in a very good time.

On this occasion though, it was a MISTAKE.

The best part about Edgar was the combination of dumb hyperpop memes with clever satire, and the staging ignored the latter completely. It showed Edgar Allan Poe TWICE, and then spliced in the Spotify reference in the background without context. That was all the act did with the satire. They should have named this song "Where the hell is Edgar?". The vague references only work when the entire audience is already in on the joke, otherwise it's a three mins of braincell murder. If a pleb tuned in blind (over 75% of the audience), tough luck on them for trying to make sense of it all. SHOULD HAVE FOLLOWED ESC ON TIKTOK!!!.

Bottom line: THE STAGING WAS PEDANTIC.

Thematic acts can alleviate that problem. Think Konstrakta's spa tableau vivant, Katryna's tron aureole, the presence of Gagnamagnið on the stage alongside Daði Freyr. This year we had Vesna's hexaplet choreography, Käärijä's ballroom dancers, Loreen's panini press, Gustaph's motivational graphics, even Alika's fucking self-playing piano applies to this principle. All of these did well, the competent ones with juries, the camp ones with the tv. Intuitive but thematically fitting visual cues that instinctively get the vibe across without requiring the audience to ponder it too deeply (or become a parody, I SEE YOU, France.) that's what effecive staging is about. Now compare the above good stagings to what Austria came up with: Four dancers in Samanta Tina garb, some more created by the LEDs in the background, and a VERY basic choreography. This is not a just simplification but a dumbing down. Every visual cue comes across as nonsensical, because nothing quite ties it together with the music. If only the song itself had provided us with a clear visual reference point, huh?

Of course, a dumbed down staging concept could still yield a good result despite itself if the live was teeming with energy and bounced off in every direction to match the music. Folks would be voting based on pure performance skill and nothing else. After all, Ewnicorn bluffed its way into third on that very principle. Sadly, neither Teya nor Salena were versed in the art of singing and dancing at the same time.

So ultimately, you're given this awkward performance where Teya acted really well and produced delectable facial expressions - I mean who doesn't love THIS:

-but failed to harmonize with Salena, while Salena hit most of her notes but clearly struggled with the Dietmann's simplistic, toddler-like choreography, like a Leila Jane or Mirud on stilts. Nice that they complimented each others weaknesses by showcasing opposite talents, but if you wanna do well just get yourself a girl who can do both.

And there we have it, Teya and Salena. High Risk, High Reward usually plays out for the better, but this is one such occasion where the high risk was avoided and the just reward was a disappointing score on the middle of the scoreboard. Such is the price of not embracing your queer-coded campness in Eurovision. We have landed in mild-like hell, just like Nina Zilli and Jonsi and all the others that I wish I could love more, but sadly did not live up to their initial hype. That too is life. Onward to better things, and things will surely get good as we move forward, right?

THE RANKING

[thisaintascenereviews]

Nerdcore Hip-Hop Is A Product Of Its Time But Lives On Today

Childish Gambino’s 2011 debut album, Camp, is what I consider the first rap album that I ever got into when I was a lot younger. I talked about it recently, actually; that piece recontextualizes Camp and its place in the grand scheme of rap music and my own music taste. I won’t go into detail about it again, since I already talked a lot about it, but I will say that it was an accessible pop-rap album that had some catchy hooks and clever bars. I’d be lying, however, if I said that Camp was the first rap album I ever heard or that Childish Gambino was the first rapper I ever got into, and alternative rap / backpack rap wouldn’t be the first type of rap I got into back when I was a teenager. That would be nerdcore, specifically MC Lars, and his third album, 2011’s Lars Attacks.

Nerdcore, for those unaware, is a sub-genre of hip-hop that is very “nerdy,” usual in its lyricism. The genre began in the late 00s, starting with MC Frontalot, whose 2005 debut album is called Nerdcore Rising. Guys like MC Lars, Schaffer The Darklord, Beefy, MC Chris, Mega Ran, and a bunch of other artists, have kept the genre going for many years, but it’s certainly fallen out of favor over time. I’m getting way ahead of myself, but my introduction to the genre was through MC Lars. I don’t remember how I found his music, but it was probably online somewhere, or through Alternative Press or AbsolutePunk, because Lars was frequently touring with alternative and punk bands, as well as being on Warped Tour. He had the unique identity of being a rapper was influenced by punk and hardcore, as well as fellow rappers and rap groups.

In 2011, he dropped the aforementioned Lars Attacks; this was his third album, but I would just as easily recommend his debut album, 2006’s The Graduate. Going back to that album, it’s a better introduction because of how short it is, and how its lyrical themes were both weirdly prophetic and topical at the same time. MC Lars is a nerdcore rapper that doesn’t just rap about “nerdy” stuff, but he also raps about the Internet, pop culture, literature, and history. The Graduate has all of that, including songs about downloading and streaming music, the Internet generation (that would eventually become known as Gen Z), the fad of commercially viable emo / alt-rock at the time, Internet relationships and “catfishing,” a song about Moby Dick, and some sillier songs about random stuff that make for good jokes.

Lars Attacks is very similar, but has less of a theme, although it has songs about Lars digging back into rap’s past, summer love at a camp, the poem Annabel Lee by Edgar Allan Poe, Judas betraying Jesus from Judas’ perspective, the story of The Giving Tree, and just a bunch of random songs with singular ideas that are self-contained jokes, not necessarily about anything at all. This album introduced me to the idea of rap music being more relatable, because part of why I could never get into it was that its main ideas just didn’t appeal to me. I didn’t realize that rap music was multifaceted, and different sub genres of it existed that focused on different ideas and subject matter, but nerdcore made me feel seen, at least as a “nerd” before it was cool to be considered a nerd.

Before the late 2000s and early 2010s, it wasn’t cool to be into superheroes, video games, books, and things that “normal people” weren’t into. In the 90s and early 2000s, alternative rap played with this idea, but it was never a mainstream thing. With the rise of the MCU, and other properties that became a lot more popular, it was the perfect time for something like nerdcore to really manifest, ultimately becoming a product of its time. Nerdcore certainly coincided with the rise of “nerd culture,” because if that never happened, nerdcore would probably be a very niche genre, and to some extent, it still is very niche.

Looking at the genre in its heyday, it’s easy to see (and hear) why it was so popular, because white dudes rapping about D&D, Magic The Gathering, video games, and comic books wasn’t super common. With the rise of nerd culture in the zeitgeist, nerdcore’s popularity waned, even though a lot of these artists are still around today. Nerdy references also crept their way into hip-hop, too, so it’s normal for a mainstream rapper to talk about anime, movies, video games, and whatever they’re into, and it made nerdcore somewhat obsolete.

The biggest elephant in the room when discussing the genre as well, and I just kind of hinted at it, is race. The genre was primarily populated by cis, white, and straight guys. The genre’s gotten a bit better over the years, but it also kind of still carries the same sexism that nerd culture always has, where women have to prove themselves to be a nerd, and they’re often seen as lesser fans or not “real fans” because they happen to enjoy it. Maybe it was unintentional, because of it being such a niche genre, but even so, there is that elephant in the room.

Like I said, the genre has remained relatively steady over the last 15 years, since its original popularity, but there are some artists that have picked up the torch in one way or another. MC Lars is still going strong, but rappers like Hoodie Allen, Joey Valance & Brae, and a few others are keeping the genre alive. A lot of artists are using nerdy references, like I said, such as Denzel Curry, Lupe Fiasco, and Childish Gambino, but the latter two were around during that initial nerd culture popularity. They overlapped with the “blog era” of rap and the rise of nerd culture, but it’s good to have nerd culture normalized now, versus still being made fun of for liking comic books or video games.

Honestly, nerdcore has no real reason to exist now, because you can consider a lot of artists that have pop culture references in their lyricism to be “nerdcore,” but they wouldn’t identify as such. It still lives on, and I look at its brief window of popularity with fondness, because that was a stepping stone for me to get into other kinds of rap, despite how I still enjoy MC Lars and a few other artists in that style. You’re not missing much if you don’t listen to it, but I will have to write something separate on MC Lars in particular, because I think Lars transcends the genre into something more. Nerdcore is a genre that I’ve been aware of for years, so it’s cool to finally talk about it in some capacity.