#well not that exactly but it could be a useful catalyst to explain how he ended up trapped between realities

[arolesbianism]

Heartbreaking! My suspicions abt Wagstaff having some fucked up timeline shit going on were correct and now I have to scramble to come up with an excuse to not have to completely overhaul my entire swap au (it won't be hard my excuse is that it's an au so I can do what I want)

[desperatelyseekingcannibals]

Telling Hugh Dancy about trans masc Will and more...

As some of you already know by now, I went to Boston Fanexpo this past weekend for another stop on the unofficial Hannibal 2024 Reunion Tour.

I had planned to do autographs on the Friday before the Hannibal panel and had brought some gifts for Hugh which included a copy of Adapt. Evolve. Become: The Genderqueer Fandom of NBC's Hannibal, which I compiled and edited last year. I also got him to sign my own copy (above).

It all moved quite quickly, but I did have the chance to explain that it's a volume by and about trans, non-binary, and genderqueer Fannibals that includes art, fics, essays, and personal pieces. He seemed intrigued and I said I hope he'd have the chance to read it and that the art isn't explicit/sexual but some of the fics are - he laughed and said he appreciated the warning.

It was all quite the whirlwind, especially after coming all the way from the UK, so I was absolutely mortified when I remembered the next morning that I had talked with a few trans Fannibals who had specifically asked me to let him know that he/Will is a trans icon. So I went back up to see him again on the Saturday morning when it wasn't too busy (and get more stuff signed) and this is what happened:

[I wrote notes down right after so this is as close an account I can get without having filmed it!].

Me: I saw you yesterday Hugh: I remember (smiley-friendly) Me: I gave you a book Hugh: I remember (smiley-friendly) Me: well, I forgot to tell you. A few trans Fannibals reached out to me to tell you that Will is a trans icon to them and we all love you for it. Hugh was surprised (in a nice way) and I was pretty much going to walk away then - job done and feeling like time for me to stop bothering Hugh lol. But before I could walk away he sort of held out his hand to stop me and said something along the lines of - I don't mean this in a disrespectful way, don't take it the wrong way... I'm genuinely curious- I get that it can be about identity- but what is the connection to Will and being trans? Luckily - my essay in the book is exactly about how Will can be read as trans, so I sort of gave him a summary of that. I explained that (obviously) both Will and Hannibal can be read as queer, and that - especially as both characters have dominant masculine and feminine traits, it's also easy to read them both as trans or in some way genderqueer. He was nodding and agreeing, so I further explained that with Hannibal, he is fully formed - he's already whatever he is - which Hugh also agreed with. But that Will is still becoming, still transitioning and therefore can be more relatable to trans fans who see that journey in themselves. So although it's not necessarily the same journey - there is enough to it that it resonates with trans people. I said that in the show there is also the added bonus of Will being seen and accepted for who he is, just as trans people wish to be. He was nodding along and agreeing with me and then he thanked me for explaining that. It was pretty quiet previously but I'd been there a few minutes so the queue was building up a little but he was so focused on me - so genuinely intent on hearing what I had to say and learning more. SO I CARRIED ON. (lols) I explained to him that it goes further than the show, that we have found a community in the fandom and that many trans people have a catalyst in their life that sparks their journey - like Will had in his friendship with Hannibal. For us it might be a person, an event, or even a TV show. I explained how the fandom are so supportive of trans people - that we are SEEN. That I for one wouldn't have been able to afford top surgery without the kind donations of Fannibals back when I was not in a good place (mentally or financially). That we all help each other and for some of us that has been life-saving. He did the hand on heart thing and said "wow" and was clearly moved. I said to him that so much of this is in the book, that I completely understand if he doesn't want to read the fanfic, but I really hope that he will at least read each of the personal pieces - that each of the fics and art also have a little write up from their creator about what the show and/or fandom has meant to them and their gender journey - how important this has been in our lives. He repeated a couple of times that he would definitely read it. I thanked him and he held out his hand and gave me the most genuine hand shake I've had in my life.

I want to really stress here how much this was instigated by Hugh. That he really wanted to know more and understand and didn't even look at the slowly growing queue but was instead intently focused on knowing more about the trans Fannibals and about why this show and the characters mean so much to us.

I then went off and spoke with a few Fannibal friends in the queue before getting around the corner to another Fannibal friend and having a bit of an emotional moment/breakdown. I can't even explain how grateful I am that he gave me the opportunity to explain all this to him. And I was especially glad I got to tell that Will is a trans icon because I'd have felt terrible if I'd have not done that after people had asked!! Thank you for trusting me to pass that message on for you!

💖

I know for many of you Adapt. Evolve. Become: The Genderqueer Fandom of NBC's Hannibal might have gone a little under the radar. So here is some more about that >>

It was compiled last year for Trans Hanni Day, edited by Max Turner of (and in conjunction with) A Coup of Owls Press - and published under Max's ACoO imprint.

It features essays, personal pieces, fanart and fanfic by and about trans, non-binary, genderqueer and otherwise non-cis Fannibals.

IT IS FREE TO DOWNLOAD, however we ask that if you do that, please consider donating to one of the linked trans orgs if you can afford to (or a similar organisation/charity of your choice).

It can be purchased on Amazon, however, as the proceeds go to charity, and Amazon only gives royalties, more is earned/given if bought directly via Max's shop.

Dearest trans Fannibals, please know that YOU ARE SEEN!

[jeonscatalyst]

https://www.tumblr.com/dearweirdme/774212277059682304/httpswwwtumblrcomdearweirdme7742039285407416

“Serves them right for being idiots” then proceeds to make the most idiotic write up of all time. The fact that anyone can have a smart phone and internet these days to spew nonsense online is beyond me.

Hi anon,

There was a time when I used to think this was the most sensible Taekook blogger on Tumblr, but over time, my opinion began to shift. I haven’t seen a single insightful post from this blogger since AYS was announced. I used to frequent Taekook blogs because it was fun to read other people’s perspectives, but eventually, I stopped visiting their spaces because I felt like I was losing brain cells after every visit.

This particular blogger frustrates me because it’s evident they truly believe they are wise or introspective, when, in reality, they are just as misguided as any other Taekooker. I won’t go into detail about the differences between Taekook and Jikook, nor the clear evidence of who is closer, as I’ve already done that in a lengthy post in the past. You can read it here…

Instead, today I want to address a few things that Taekookers, and some Jikookers as well, still fail to understand, not only about the bond between Jikook and Taekook, but also about human relationships in general.

Let’s begin with the fact that this blogger claims the Jikook ship was created by BigHit. Not only is this the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever read, but it’s also a pathetic excuse for why another pairing gained recognition. Let’s not even mention that this blogger has only been in the fandom for a short time and probably caught up on content through YouTube edits, (you can tell they’re the type to fall for YouTube edits because they cite them as references), TikTok, and various conspiracy theories from bitter Taekookers trying to explain away the connection they see between Jimin and Jungkook. This person hasn’t been around long enough to form such strong opinions about the past, yet they act as though they lived through it all personally. Not saying one couldn’t be informed about a past they didn’t experience but we all know living through something is different from getting information about it second hand.

How exactly did BigHit create the Jikook ship when the primary reason for its popularity is the GCF Jungkook posted in November 2017? That video, which Jungkook made after a trip with Jimin to Japan, was not related to work. In fact, Jungkook explicitly stated that the trip and by extension, the GCF, was not work-related in any way. How could BigHit have created the ship when nearly every major Jikook moment came from Jungkook himself? If you were to ask any Jikooker on the street why they started shipping Jikook, you’d hear about things like the GCF, MMA 2018, the Rose Bowl, Hickeygate, etc. Not a single one would mention anything related to the company, and notice how all of these key moments were initiated by Jungkook?

This blogger also goes on to say that Jimin leans into fanservice more because he wants to please the company and the fans. I find it hard to understand how this isn’t anti behavior, especially since this blog claims it doesn’t harbor any ill feelings toward Jimin. Implying that Jimin lives his entire life to cater to fans and a corporation while disregarding the feelings of his friends is such an anti move especially because Jungkook himself describes Jimin as thoughtful and selfless. I doubt he would see Jimin this way if Jimin constantly disregarded his feelings and focused more on pleading fans and a money hungry coorperation.

The reason I mentioned that Jungkook initiates most of the interactions that Jikookers find significant is because Taekookers often argue that Jimin leans more into “fanservice” than Jungkook does and that Jungkook sometimes seems hesitant to engage due to his consideration for Taehyung. However, it doesn’t seem to me that Jungkook was particularly concerned about Taehyung when he singlehandedly kickstarted the ship with his GCF. He certainly didn’t seem worried about Taehyung during MMA 2018, or when he openly shared that his “bro” Jimin had bitten him on the neck while tipsy after a late-night drink knowing exactly how shippers would react. It doesn’t appear that he had Taehyung in mind when he revealed that he showers and sings with Jimin in the military fully aware of how fans might react to that information. By now, we have to assume that all the members are aware of what fans do, and Jungkook must know about both Jikookers and Taekookers. If he were truly concerned about Taehyung’s feelings regarding his “fanservice” with Jimin, I highly doubt he would have invited himself to shower at Jimin’s during a live, fully aware of how fans would interpret that.

This blogger seems to forget that it was thanks to Jimin that Jikookers didn’t have more moments to celebrate in chapter two of their bond. It was Jungkook who kept the ship alive during that time. If it had been up to Jungkook, we would have had many more moments to highlight. He was the one going live multiple times, talking about Jimin, watching and singing his songs. If Jimin had accepted when Jungkook invited him over for chicken and beer, we would have had a Jikook moment. If Jimin had shown up when Jungkook extended an open invite to any member to join him, we would have had a Jikook moment. If Jimin had agreed when Jungkook asked to come over, do a live, and shower at his place, we would have had countless moments to talk about for years. But alas, none of these things happened because of Jimin. Yet, somehow, he’s the one being accused of leaning more into “fanservice”?

These newer fans are incredibly fortunate to have encountered a quieter version of Jimin. If they had been around pre-2020, and witnessed how unapologetically vocal Jimin was about Jungkook, they would have disliked him (well, they dislike him now, but they wouldn’t have been able to hide it as they do now). They are lucky that they came in during a time when Jimin has become more reserved. If Jimin really wanted to cater to shippers he wouldn’t have said “no” when asked if he had eaten Jungkook’s ramen yet. He would have gone to Inkigayo just to give shippers something to talk about. He could have easily gone to Jungkook’s house anytime and taken photos, posted them, or even shared a video from when he spent the night with him before Jeju. He never lacked invitations from Jungkook; in fact, Jungkook asked him over multiple times. The only reason we didn’t see those moments was because of Jimin.

They claim Jungkook holds back because he’s concerned about Taehyung, but I didn’t see him thinking about Taehyung when he cuddled into Jimin’s lap and slapped his butt in AYS. The funniest part is, in AYS, Jungkook initiated more physical contact with Jimin than Jimin did. Nearly every time Jimin initiated anything, it was usually playful, but it was Jungkook who woke up and cuddled into Jimin, touched Jimin to look for mosquito bites, who “caressed Jimin’s smooth legs on the yacht”, who leaned on Jimin’s shoulder during the train ride. It was Jungkook who constantly talked about how much he loved the trip, describing it as the best trips of his life. Most of the significant Jikook moments from AYS were once again initiated by Jungkook, but Taekookers ignore these and magnify moments when Jungkook playfully pushes or shoves Jimin away when he’s being mischievous, claiming that it’s him setting boundaries. If he were really setting boundaries, he wouldn’t have cuddled into Jimin’s lap and slapped his ass. If he were setting boundaries, he wouldn’t have leaned on Jimin’s shoulder during the train ride. If he were really worried about Taehyung, he wouldn’t have told us that the trips with Jimin were the best trips of his life, especially after taking “private” trip with Taehyung. That’s insulting. So, I fail to see how Jimin is the one who leans more into “fanservice” when many Jikookers are still here today thanks to Jungkook.

This blogger’s concept of closeness is truly amusing and highlights their ignorance. According to them, Jimin seems closer to Taehyung simply because he called him a few times in chapter two. Wouldn’t it be nice if life were that simple and linear? Wouldn’t it be easier and less complicated if relationships were so black and white? This blogger claims that the things they’ve said themselves prove who is closer among the three, but I fail to see how Taehyung and Jungkook talking about not having deep conversations or feeling awkward with each other proves how close they are. I don’t understand how Taehyung saying that he only learned about Jikook’s trip through the group chat shows how close they are. How does Taehyung not knowing Jungkook was filming a show with Jimin demonstrate their closeness? And how does Taehyung not knowing Jimin spent the night at Jungkook’s before Jeju prove that they’re close? Mind you taekookers believe that everytime Jk was on his phone in AYS he was talking with Tae and they also believe that Taekook FaceTime a lot but my question is, what do they talk about on this numerous calls if Tae keeps finding out about Jungkook’s schedules from a group chat and not from Jungkook himself? If anything, these examples illustrate exactly how Taekook’s friendship and bond truly are.

Human relationships are fluid, multifaceted, and complex. Closeness and distance are influenced by factors like mental state, career shifts, personal growth, emotional needs, stress, and misunderstandings. It’s important to remember that a single period of time doesn’t define the entirety of a relationship, but it can reflect specific phases, changes, or circumstances that affect how people interact.

The fact that Jimin might have kept in touch more with Taehyung than with Jungkook during a particular period doesn’t necessarily mean that he feels closer to Taehyung. Let me illustrate this with an example, though this is not meant to reflect what happened in Jikook’s situation. If you have a friend and a lover, you would likely communicate more with your lover, depending on the circumstances. However, if you experience a misunderstanding, disagreement, breakup, or a period of distance with your lover, you might reduce or stop contact with them during that time but still maintain communication with your friend. Does this mean you’re closer to the friend you’re still in touch with? Of course not. It’s simply a matter of circumstances. This specific period doesn’t define your bond or who you feel closer to. This is the basic concept I’ve been trying to explain to for so long and I am honestly baffled people don’t understand this. I don’t know how everyone else does it but sometimes, when I don’t understand certain things, I put myself, my relationship and that of friends, family and acquaintances in that position to see it from a more realistic point of view because it is often so easy to view these people through a tunnel that blocks every logic out. Because these aren’t people we know personally it is very easy to watch them thinking we are watching movies or something.

Relationships and their depth are not defined by one single moment in time but by history, patterns, and consistency. And that’s something Taekook lacks. They don’t have a history that demonstrates they are or have ever been closer than Jikook at least not emotionally. There’s no consistency either. You’ll notice that Taekookers often cling to the solo era, referencing it as proof of their ship, because without that period in the 13+ years BTS has been together, they have almost nothing. There’s no evidence of Taekook knowing or hanging out with each other’s friends, little or no proof of them prioritizing time together outside of work, no evidence of them being each other’s biggest supporters, and no evidence of them seeking comfort or companionship from each other, except during fun moments. They literally have nothing else, and they know this, which is why they hold onto the solo era……it’s all they have. Taekook could come out of the military and never be seen together outside of work again, but Taekookers would still cling to that era. If you carve out that solo era period from the ship and ask taekookers to make arguments for their ship, they go back to slowed down edits, narratives about two lovers being separated and oppressed or counting moles on each others faces. Most of the arguments they have today they didn’t have before the solo era and they don’t find that straight. One of the funniest thing I ever read a taekooker on here write was that Taekook is real because they kept hanging out with each other when there was no contractual obligation. These are the same people who claim every time Jk mentioned Jimin on Lives he did it because of his contract or that he couldn’t say no to the travel show because of contracts. If Hybe could make Jungkook obey the contractual obligations to do fanservice with Jimin, couldn’t they stop takeook from hanging out? Yet they themselves send off takeook to premiers with body guards, send them off to concerts, post bangtan bombs of them on Valentine’s Day which they same tkkrs gosh about mind you. As if any of these boys ever had a contractual obligation to spend time with each other outside of work. I wonder what was said in the contract to make Jikook hang out all the times we know they did consistently for years.

This blogger claims that Jikook don’t need each other on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, and suggests that Taekook does because they hung out during the solo era. First of all, there’s a big difference between two friends hanging out out of convenience and two people actually prioritizing each other’s company over everyone else’s. Taekookers believe Taekook prioritized each other, but that’s simply not true. Prioritization happens when circumstances don’t make it easy or you have other options but you still make the effort or choose each other. Other members were busy with their solo projects so who else was there for Jungkook to do those thrilling things with except Taehyung? Also notice how Jk was almost always tagging along with Tae and his friends and not just him and Tae together doing stuff which mean even Tae’s friends were always still more of a priority for him and Jungkook was an add on to the fun. For years, we rarely saw Taekook hang out outside of work, and we even confirmed that they didn’t spend time together during breaks, birthdays, or other significant days. We also confirmed that they grew a bit distant. So, now you think they prioritized each other just because they started hanging out when both of them had free time and mind you at a time when other didn’t? That’s not how it works. And it’s clear that wasn’t the case because as soon as they got busy with their albums, the hangouts stopped. They both still made time to frequently hang out with others, just not with each other as much. This is the simplest proof that if their schedules hadn’t aligned, we definitely wouldn’t have seen them together as much. They always talk about Jimin hanging out with Yoongi and Hobi but ofcourse. That was a given because 1: they are his close friends and 2: their schedules aligned way more than they did with other people. They were all working on their albums and were probably operating on the same wavelength as opposed to Jungkook who was on a rest and no work mode so it make sense that they kept more communication because they saw each other more so it was easier to do more stuff together. Also notice how Jimin wasn’t seen going to concerts or premieres and stuff like that with Hobi and Yoongi but occasionally had drinks with them, played games with them and talked with them on the phone. It’s really not the same things to compare.

What Taekookers have never understood about Taekook is that their dynamic is a fun and lighthearted one, primarily centered around shared activities. They click well when it comes to doing fun things they both enjoy. They have many common interests, particularly when it comes to engaging in entertaining activities. Their bond is more situational and activity-based rather than deeply emotionally intertwined. While they clearly enjoy spending time together, their interactions suggest a relationship built on fun, shared interests, and a natural ease in each other’s presence, rather than one rooted in deep personal connection or emotional dependence.

If you pay close attention, you’ll notice that Taehyung and Jungkook’s hangouts are almost always centered around specific activities or events, rather than deep emotional closeness or meaningful conversations or time spent together. This is evident from the fact that, almost every time we saw or heard about them being together in Chapter Two, they were engaged in some activity or having fun, only to part ways afterward and return to their respective homes. Even the one time we learned Jungkook was at Taehyung’s place, it wasn’t for intimate, one-on-one time, it was with some of Taehyung’s other friends, and Taehyung mentioned they were just playing games. On multiple occasions, we saw Jungkook hang out with Taehyung and then return home to start a live stream, which shows that he still craved a level of companionship that his previous outings hadn’t fully satisfied. You never just hear that they choose to be together just because….

Taehyung and Jungkook don’t have the continuous need to be together that one would expect from people who truly need each other on a daily basis, as this blogger claims. They meet, have fun, and once the purpose of the hangout is served, they go their separate ways. For instance, Taehyung didn’t feel the need to stay with Jungkook at the ski resort after enjoying the fun; he chose to leave with friends, leaving Jungkook behind. He didn’t feel any obligation to remain with him, as one would expect from a lover or a friend with a deep emotional connection.

Similarly, Jungkook didn’t feel the need to stay by Taehyung’s side after the musical and premiere, even though Taehyung apparently got drunk and fell asleep. A lover wouldn’t leave you alone in such a state, but a friend who was there just for the fun and company would leave without feeling any obligation to stay. Notice how every time you see or hear about them hanging out, it’s always centered around some fun activity and never simply because they wanted to spend time together. They don’t feel the need to stick together unless there’s something they both find fun to do.

This dynamic is very different from that of Jimin and Jungkook. I don’t need to list all the ways they differ, as I’m sure it’s already clear. Jungkook going to Jimin when lonely and bored just to sit there for hours with him doing nothing speaks volumes. Jungkook going to Jimin after a 3 day tiring concert to spend time with him, cook for him and seemingly spending the night with him just to be seen with him again the next day at a restaurant with friends shows the difference. We all know that these guys lived very busy, tedious and fast paced lives where they barely got a chance to spend any alone time together except at night as they were usually together as a group. So in cases like this, one would expect that the two people who are closest and possibly in a romantic relationship will prioritize those alone times together since they always had dozens of staff and cameras shoved in their faces all day with little to no privacy and we saw that the two people who actually did this were Jimin and Jungkook not Taehyung and Jungkook. Jungkook himself coined “all nighter friends” name with Jimin which spoke a lot about how much they spent their nights and quieter moments together.

Taekook share a laid-back, fun, and comfortable dynamic, which often gives Taekookers the impression that they are much closer than they actually are. A prime example would be Taekook at the Harry Styles concert. Anyone watching them together that night would assume they were the best of friends, which in a way they are. However, what people wouldn’t know is that at that very moment, Taehyung didn’t even know Jungkook’s hotel room number. What’s more telling is that, behind the scenes, whenever Jungkook felt the need for company, he repeatedly sought out Jimin, not the one he was seen comfortably hanging out with at the concert.

These moments reveal the complexity of human relationships and how different people fulfill different needs for us. The person you turn to for fun, thrill, and adventure isn’t necessarily the one you seek when your emotional needs arise. And if we go by what Jungkook has said over the years, it’s clear who he shares a deeper emotional connection with and who he has a more laid-back, fun, but less emotionally deep connection with.

I also find it frustrating the way Taekookers have elevated the Hawaii trip into something it wasn’t. That wasn’t Jungkook traveling to fulfill some emotional need for Taehyung. It was Jungkook traveling after receiving an invite to have fun with his friend…the one he clicks with perfectly when it comes to things like this. They were on the same wavelength at the time, enjoying each other’s company in their free time. Emphasis on FREE TIME. They always have fun together, and they share common interests. I’m sure Taekook would turn to each other for fun, thrill, and adventure, but I can bet my bottom dollar that they wouldn’t turn to each other for the deeper emotional stuff. They really never have, and history has proven this.

They didn’t prioritize spending time with each other over anyone else in the solo era. It was simply convenient for them to do so, and so they did. They both had the time to hang out, and they took it. But when we talk about true prioritization, we’re talking about Jimin flying all the way from Paris to spend one day with Jungkook, then heading back to Hawaii the next day. We’re talking about Jungkook choosing to use his limited break to take Jimin to Japan…something Jimin has always wanted. We’re talking about Jungkook, knowing full well that other members were available, yet choosing to spend his quiet peaceful time with Jimin every day, prioritizing him over anyone else. That’s prioritization…not Jungkook flying to Hawaii when he had time and money to have fun with Taehyung. This is something he could have done with any other friend if he had the time or money. Do you think if Mingyu or Eunwoo call Jungkook to join them somewhere fun in ant part of the world Jungkook has access to while he has the time and money he wouldn’t go? He will definitely go. Tae didn’t call Jungkook because he missed him in the way taekookers think. He might have missed his company and known that that is something they both would really enjoy doing since they relate like that and called him but it was definitely not because he missed his boyfriend. If that was the case, his “boyfriend” wouldn’t only have found out at the moment that be was in Hawaii.

Prioritization again comes in when Taehyung gets on planes to support his wooga, or his wooga putting everything else aside to spend time with him before his enlistment, or when he ensures he doesn’t miss important days for them. He never really prioritizes seeing Jungkook on his birthdays, and vice versa. He didn’t care to see Jungkook even for a single day during their 2019 break, choosing to travel with his friends instead even when Jungkook had a birthday yet we had Jimin flying all the way from Paris to see Jungkook for a few hours and head back yet, Taekookers claim they prioritize each other in that way? They don’t.

Two friends meeting up and hanging out when they have the time doesn’t equate to prioritizing each other, nor does it signify deep emotional connection or bond. Yes, they must like and care about each other to hang out multiple times, which we know Taekook do, but if their schedules had been less aligned, they wouldn’t have cared as much, and it wouldn’t have bothered them.

Unlike Taekook, Jimin and Jungkook have a long history of prioritizing each other, keeping constant communication, and staying fully aware of what the other is doing. A few months in a 13+ year friendship doesn’t change that. Real closeness isn’t about how many hangouts or fun activities two people can have, or how many cute pictures they take together, or where they sit during meals. True closeness and a deep emotional bond are about who you want to be with even when there’s nothing to do, who you turn to when you’re going through emotional moments, and who you think of watching when you can’t sleep at 4 a.m. These are subtle things, but they speak volumes.

Closeness is relative, and we can be close to people in different ways. There are ways Jungkook is closer to Taehyung than Jimin, and vice versa, but based on everything Jungkook has said over the years, and how we’ve seen them interact, it’s clear that his emotional connection with Jimin is and has always been much deeper. I guess it’s up for debate who you think he’s closer to. If you think a dynamic based on fun activities, camaraderie and ease is closer than one built on emotional depth and closeness, then I suppose you’d think Taekook are closer.

PS: AYS is still a very sore topic for taekookers. They claim AYS proved enough but if AYS really confirmed that Taekook is real and Jikook isn’t, why do they detest the show so much?

[galacii-gallery]

Shattered Lore caught in 4k. May contain Shattered Fates AU spoilers so...

Disclaimer: He's not in the OG Dreamtale, I'm not the Creator of Dreamtale... Shattered belongs to the Shattered Fates AU, a Dreamtale AU; differing from the original. [ It holds some aspects from the original, but it is very different in terms of story.... worldbuilding etc. ]

May or may not contain spoilers for the Shattered Fates AU Fic! ( This was shared on discord but I'm here to share it here as well! )

Here's some general information on him...

He's a Dream who experiences 'Dreams' and in most of them it ends up with him dying, or worse. [ Similar to Resets, but on another level. ]

Having gone through several failed attempts he finally figured out another path for the betterment of his world, for their brother and himself.

with how much resentment he held, it unlocked new paths... even he was surprised by this change, being able to tap into more 'Negative' aspects of himself like Nightmare. Of course, he couldn't tap in fully to the abilities granted to him unlike Nightmare, but he most certainly could use this new version of himself to his advantage.

After becoming this, a new point was appointed to him as well... he couldn't exactly go back to the very beginning again... dying would just set him back to his first experience as this 'Shattered' version of himself.

forever starting out in a position where he'd be fighting himself emotionally. The scarlet rage within ready to pop at any moment if things didn't go his way... he had to make do with what he now had and was stuck with.

( He sometimes gets jealous of versions of himself who have a better life then himself, like Post dark cream Dream/Shattered and the Studio version of himself. )

Shattered uses his knowledge from previous 'Dreams' to sway those who he knew... for those he doesn't know he gains a great interest in them; the same goes for those who have the potential to change. With this as well, he finally took advantage of his natural strength, preferring hand to hand combat up close, rather then the bow which did little to no help to him before.

There's rumors that he takes those with that potential under his wing, and re-directs events or deaths towards others to keep a particular crowd alive... he can't exactly be everywhere at once saving those that he needs.

having been... through a lot, he lost the reason why he continued to be like this and eventually just saw himself as Shattered and not so much as Dream anymore. he's doing this for the world... for himself, and his brother right? he's the hero in his eyes, but not in others...

Shattered is very confident in himself; to the point it has become the catalyst to his 'Negative' sense of self. Charismatic, but not intentionally... it's actually hard to tell if he's flirting or not with another. Unlike Nightmare, Shattered tends to Lie more; mainly to keep himself together... to keep others in positions where he believes they need to be. sometimes he can be Sassy or more so Sly. when he's beginning to go over the edge, a scarlet hue begins to set in. the hidden and concealed part of him that he tries to keep buried is Aggressive, Argumentative, Violent and Uncontrollable. There's little moments where he ends up slipping into this 'Fully corrupted' version of himself, once in it- it's hard to escape this intrusive thought of a form.

...more will be shared and explained with the Fic! but this is primarily for those wanting to overanalyze Shattered or possibly write him more accurately!

[alice-apparently]

I think Agent / Subject / Catalyst are the three categories [CAT 1-3] in the case numbers.

Bear with me.

So aside from the dates, the case numbers are split in 3 parts, right:

CAT 1-3 (rarely combination of 2 numbers) -> category

*R (-> rank) A/B/C (sometimes combination of 2 letters from ABC)

DPHW (4 digit number)

* the case numbers for episodes #3 and #4 don't have the R for some reason

This is very much taking into account/based on the stuff from the ARG klaus.xls document btw, which has these exact 3 columns & features some of the episodes' cases where these match up exactly with the case numbers. [if you're interested, it's #2 line 80; #3 line 64; #5 line 75; #7 line 77]

Both category and rank are divided into 3 options, with some exceptions of cases having 2 applied at the same time. So now episode 9 gave us another nice group of three. And I thought, hm, maybe those ideas, Agent, Subject, and Catalyst, could match up with one these as a classification of the cases. And I think it does.

Based on the cases we had so far, I think category 1 is Agent, category 2 Subject, and category 3 Catalyst.

In my tmagp paranoia document with all my notes, I made a table sorting the cases according to the categories for a better overview and to be able to maybe spot similarities:

Let me explain what I think the classifications mean.

1 - Agent.

That's the most self-explanatory one I think. I'm not the first to make the comparison between avatar and agent, and not the first to point out that Needles acts like a TMA avatar.

Agent then is an active purveyor of fear/terror. someone deliberatly acting in such a way to spread it, to scare people. It is the person themself directly and possibly willingly causing the 'unsettling experiences' and spreading fear. Needles is the prime example.

It doesn't work quite so well with #1A, but I'd say the "he" that she interacts with acts as an agent, with him luring her to the cemetary and the unsettling way he is described there, but more importantly, with the laughter that follows, that he seems to enjoy what's happening, her fear. Her fear that's caused by him.

2. Subject.

Subject I would describe with "being subjected to something" or that "something just happens". A subject to fear. Maybe as a victim of sorts, but that's not quite it. Anyway, I think the cases in category 2 group together easily:

What's interesting is that all of the cases feature in some way a person entering a space and being affected by it/by something in a certain space. Or at least it is centred on a certain space. they are subject(ed) to the space.

In #1B it's the TMI ruins, in #3 the garden, in #5 the cinema, in #7 the charity store, and in #8 the service station. The person in #8 himself blames it explicitly on the place, the architecture, on the space he entered.

3. Catalyst.

Catalyst, I would argue, means a moveable object that works to spread fear. That is, a person with a certain object--or artifact, if you will--working together: it's a person with the object as a catalyst, it's the object through a person spreading fear.

To put it more concisely, it's cases of a person carrying an artifact and through them, allowing the artifact to affect other people.

We have the violin and the dice in episodes #4 and #9. In both cases the people who pick them up spread harm/misfortune by using them. In both cases the person first harms themself before learning they can/how they can instead spread it to others.

In episode #1B, which was in both category 2 and 3, RedCanary takes that wooden box/old wooden thing home with them. And it's that box, taking that box, that's linked to what's happening to them. Or what they do afterwards. Because we don't actually know what happens to RedCanary or what RedCanary goes on to do afterwards. We've kinda assumed that they just die, but maybe not? Anyway, my point is, old wooden box thing = artefact/catalyst.

Episode #2 is the biggest hole in this theory I think. Without knowing I probably would've put it as category 1, agent, with Ink5oul as the agent. But instead it's rather that the tattoo acts as a catalyst, through the artist. So far it rather has seemed to affect the artist herself rather than other people through her, except for the confrontation with her roommate. But, as @amelie-isnt-french pointed out, we don't know what she moved on to do afterwards. Maybe it would go on to affect other people. Maybe she just hasn't learned how to do so yet.

Or maybe affecting other people is not even a criteria at all. Maybe it's enough that the artifact comes into contact with a person and affecting them.

I'm aware that this theory isn't without flaws; both cases in episode #1, and esp. #2 don't fit into this as well as the others. But I think it still works.

That being said, I can go even more crazy.

You know that other ARG document, the chdb.xlsx, with the list of the gifted children tested at the Magnus Institute, the one that features Sam and Gerry, the one that's possibly the one Sam mentions in episode #8 through which he found Gerry.

Now my question on looking at this document, or you know, one of my questions, was what does the chdb stand for. I figured db might probably be database. the c could be children, because that's who were tested and listed. but the h? I had the stray thought at some point that it might be host. which I found very unsettling, but also didn't really work as a whole, like "Children Host Data Base"? nah.

But what if the C is not for Children. What if it's for Catalyst. Because Catalyst Host Data Base suddenly makes a lot of sense. We know that the TMAGP Magnus Institute is interested in "supernaturally active items" as the episode 9 statement giver tells us. They have been collecting artefacts/catalysts. Cf. also that old wooden box RedCanary found in its ruins. So they might have in the children been looking for potential hosts for them.

[08melancholie]

I've just read your “Micah is not 'just another bad guy'” post, and I think I understand your frustrations with the willingly shallow understanding so much the fandom exhibits towards Micah. But I'm curious, what is the appeal? /gen

I can agree with the sentiment that he is a good villain because we hate him, and that he's decently fleshed out enough to hold some sort of depth. Despite that he's still very intentionally static. There's a small amount that the game depicts about him to be sympathized with. His morals and motives do not change nor is there a dynamic shift in his character. He is not just an antagonist but a villain. He is a bad guy, not just a catalyst to our beloved Arthur's death, but a character with purposeful, very common malicious intent. I don't believe it as much of a 'defense mechanism', because that seems a little apologetic, but simply that he is just not a good person. He is selfish with the disguise of 'survival' and that is a moral choice. Sometimes whatever distinctions exist in that context don't need to be addressed. Besides his writing, how do you find the room to like him? Is it the potential of his character beyond the bluntly written malice? Does his tragic backstory explain his behavior or simply excuse it? I think holding appreciation for a character's place in the story is different from appreciating the character themself. The choices he makes aren't really slip-ups caused by a nature he can't help or struggles to. His manipulation and interactions are calculated. He is still human, yes, but placed into the story as merely an ignition to the gang's tragic downfall, it shouldn't be surprising that people will hold shallow feelings towards a shallow role. His curse is arguably inevitable, and it was intentionally made to be.

But of course I understand the nature of fanon. I think Micah enjoyers (not apologists) are justified, but I also think those who flat-out do not like him and don't care for his depth are also. Neither should be warring because it's a waste of energy in my opinion, but sometimes people just will not spare room for a bad person or bad actions, and that's plenty acceptable.

I don't think nor ever claim that Micah is a good person, I agree that he's horrible and that his actions in the game are unforgivable, considering all he's done to mess up the gang and their lives; getting a good 40% of them killed as well. Micah holds a generous amount of depth which can explain, but not excuse, his actions. I always make sure to mention that, because you can't find excuses for Micah.

P.S.: In my "Vengeance" post, which I have yet to finish, I talk a lot about Micah's past; childhood relationships, possible trauma etc. Once I finish that, I'll make sure to link it at the end of this post.

The reason I used the term 'defense mechanism' is because, while yes; he is a villain, I do think the jabs at everyone is an attempt at staying 'above' everyone, hence why he calls people 'cowpoke', which is by definition "the lowest ranking member of the cattle drive hierarchy, usually given to the very young, incompetents and drunks." The reason I called it a defense mechanism is mostly because he'll pick on all of the more 'liked' members; so Arthur, Charles, Javier, for example. Charles and Arthur especially—these are two big, strong men that could probably twist him in half if they so pleased, like how Charles effortlessly tosses him in one camp interaction. But that's how I think he thinks he stays, so to say, 'above' the others in the gang. I don't exactly know how to explain it, so please bear with me if this doesn't make much sense😭.

To answer the question about appeal, the reason why I like Micah is the writing, not much else. There isn't much else to like, in fact, without it being questionable what the person's views in life are. I think that sometimes you just don't need a reason to like a character. If they appeal to you, thats just that. You don't have to justify why you like every character with a dozen different reasonings. I like how he was written, his purpose in the game was pretty straightforward and well thought-out to still be original and not like the generic story villain and I think he's attractive, but thats past the point LMAO.

I don't expect people to not hate him or not hold shallow feelings for him either. I myself don't like him in the story, I've said so before many times. Most of his choices throughout the story are bad, no denying it, however it just feels wrong to see people claim he was a bad character, when he truly wasn't. When he's framed as just another story villain, I feel like the work of R* and the writers is just swept aside as well, which I feel bad about.

Finally, if you want to understand more why I like Micah, these two posts will help. They're a little long, especially the second one, but if you're willing to read, go ahead!

"Why Do I like Micah?" — "Micah Bell (ASK)"

p.s. sorry if none of this makes sense, i just woke up for school

[ouroperation]

saw a tumblr post just now about it and it's making me think,,

miguel o'hara and second chances

when miguel mentioned that he 'mouths off' his coworkers it wasn't just little remarks here and there. he would sometimes lay into his colleagues and not stop. he'd call them moronic or stupid — sometimes ugly or unattractive. he was an asshole and nearly all of his coworkers hated him (or simply disliked him) as a result. whether this was a front or façade or really a direct product of tyler stone's grooming and manipulation, it was never really explained. perhaps stone had 'reared' him up to act like that — to not ask for respect and just take it — and miguel was unable to deject his words. maybe miguel had subconsciously thought that if he was good enough at being a prick, stone would favour him more and continue praising him for his work.

either way, i wholly believe that his venomous tongue was not a true reflection of who miguel really was before the mutation. he was groomed and manipulated and was often a victim of racism. even if it was in the form of micro-aggressions, which are frequently overlooked, but one of the most common type that he experiences (i.e. being called mike instead of miguel no matter how many times he corrects the person). he's never had a single positive adult role model to look up to and learn from. george was abusive and, frankly, racist. conchata was absent and derisive. tyler solely wanted him for his intelligence and cared not for who miguel actually was but instead of how much use he could be. the two men practically took advantage of his precocious abilities and in turn had his entire life set out before he even became a pre-teen. his step-father and biological father exploited and took advantage of him and who miguel was before the mutation was the direct result. they'd dug the hole and thrown him in it.

this is why the ideologies of 'second chances' and 'being reborn' is such a crucial part of his story of becoming spider-man. his demeaning behaviour and egotistical inclinations (toward coworkers like aaron delgato) is what ultimately acts as the catalyst for his transformation. yes, he was roofied just hours before, but throughout his job at alchemax miguel wasn't a nice person. he was an asshole, simply put, and we — the readers — should believe when he admits that he is. he's not perfect, he's flawed, but he's also a symbol of second chances. he died in that machine, but he walked (or stumbled, better put) out with a new body. he was quite literally reborn. also, not to mention that his first instinct when he is shot at is not to attack but to run, and his first instinct when aaron falls is not to let him die but to try and save him. even with all the abuse — for lack of a better word — that miguel had thrown at the man while working on the raiders programme, he still rushes to try and save him. that's one of the first glimpses into who he really is as a person, down to his very morality.

returning to the theme of second chances... he does get a few of them. he becomes friends with xina again. he rebuilds his bond with gabriel. he tries to rebuild his relationship with his mother, conchata. he realises the state of the world that he's blocked out since adolescence and he attempts to help it, little by little. yes, the mutation and the process of becoming spider-man was not his choice — like how a lot of things were, ultimately, never out of his own free will. miguel didn't put on the suit because he wanted to, he put it on because he had to, but his rebirth was exactly what he needed to grow as a character. after all, the environment in which he lives in is an outward expression of him. when said environment suddenly changes, he does as well. for the first time in his life there's no path laid out before him, there's no decisions already made and directions of where to go.

for the first time in his life, miguel gets a second chance, and he takes it.

[ashes-2-ashes57cba]

The Bad Batch: Specter

Episode 14: War Mantle

edited by: @ryleeeeeenn warnings: cliffhanger

Specter quietly sighed, having finished reassembling her pistol for the third time; with years of training she had formulated an efficient process, but it made for poor inflight entertainment. Omega continued tinkering with Gonky while Hunter twirled his knife between his fingers. 

She chuckled as the girl tried to copy him, clumsily maneuvering her tool across her fingers.

“We’re being hailed,” Wrecker called from the cockpit, grabbing their attention. 

“It’s… Rex,” Echo added, surprised. Hunter and Specter shared a glance before entering the cockpit with Omega. Tech revealed Rex’s projection.

“Hello, boys. Sorry to cut right to it, but I could use your help,” he said; he wore a hood and kept looking over his shoulder. Specter wondered what sort of trouble he had gotten himself into as she sat down.

“What do you need, Captain?” Hunter asked.

“I received a distress signal from a clone trooper, but I’m a bit tied up at the moment to retrieve him,” Rex explained.

“You want us to recover a reg?” Specter questioned, raising a brow with Hunter. 

“He’s an old friend, and he’s in trouble,” Rex sighed, clearly worried. “I need you to get him out.”

“Out of what exactly?” Omega questioned. A device on Rex’s end beeped before he could answer—Specter guessed a proximity alarm.

“Can’t talk right now. Sending you his signal. I’ll be in touch,” he said, quickly ending the hail and disappearing. 

“What was that about?” Wrecker wondered aloud. 

“The distress signal sent by CC-5576 is originating from Daro,” Tech said, reading the data from the signal, “a terrestrial planet in the Outer Rim with no known settlements or installations.” Specter perked up, the number sounded familiar but she couldn’t figure out who exactly it was. 

“What’s he doing all the way out there?” Hunter questioned.

“Well, does it matter?” Echo argued.

“We’ve gone on missions before without much intel. But this would be stretching it,” said Hunter. Specter gazed at him curiously; while he had a point, she couldn’t figure out how exactly it would be a stretch, especially given their most recent experiences. Yet at the same time, she understood Hunter’s caution because of them. 

“Rex wouldn’t ask us for help if it wasn’t urgent,” Echo urged, leaning forward in his seat. 

“Echo’s got a point,” Wrecker nodded along. 

“May I remind you that we are in the middle of a job for Cid. If we deviate, we will not be compensated. No money means no food,” Tech added, giving a pointed glance at Wrecker.

“Oh yeah. Tech’s got a point,” Wrecker nodded again.

“But Rex’s friend is in trouble. That’s more important than getting paid,” Omega said, joining the debate. 

“Well, the kid’s got a point,” Wrecker nodded once more. They all turned to Specter next, ready to hear her thoughts on what they should do. She sighed. Specter couldn’t guarantee she could voice a clearly thought-out opinion; something made her uneasy about the whole mission, whether it was simply stress, or a bigger underlying issue. 

“I don’t know. I just… I’ve got a bad feeling about this,” Specter admitted, massaging her temples and leaning back. “I feel like this is going to be a catalyst for something… but I can’t explain what.” She turned her gaze up to Hunter. “It’s up to you, Sarge.” He paused to consider their options.

“Fine. We’ll check things out. But…” he sighed, “I don’t like it.” Hunter motioned for Tech and Echo to go ahead and set a course for Daro before returning to the hold to try and find more information. Omega made her way closer to Specter, taking her hand. 

“Are you okay?” the girl whispered. “I’ve been worried about you since Bracca.”

“Yeah,” she lied, feigning a smile, “I’m fine. I promise.” Omega crossed her arms and shook her head with a scowl. 

“You’re very obvious when you lie,” she scolded. “I know I’m only a kid, but I want to help!” Specter hesitated to answer, running a hand over the girl’s hair. 

“To be honest, Meg… I’m not sure. I don’t know what’s wrong with me, but I just feel like something inside me is changing,” Specter explained.

“Changing? Into what?”

“I don’t know, but I’m sure we’ll figure it out, hun,” she ruffled the girl’s hair; Omega giggled, and Specter smiled, genuinely now, watching as she ran off to join Hunter. 

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

“We are approaching Daro’s atmosphere. I’ll bring us in low to avoid any possible tracking scanners,” Tech said as they exited hyperspace a while later. Specter forced herself to keep her hands down to refrain from nibbling on her nails. 

“We’re banking a lot on a clone we don’t even know,” Hunter muttered.

“Rex trusts him. And I trust Rex,” Echo reassured. Tech continued flying the ship closer to the beacon, landing in a small clearing in the woods. Hunter exited the ship first, pistol raised and ready to cover Tech as he used his datapad. Specter and the others followed them out.

“The signal is coming from that direction,” Tech pointed in the distance, looking up from his device. Having Wrecker guide her, Specter walked backward and guarded the rear—her anxiety and suspicion had not withered away. There was something off about the area that she couldn’t put her finger on. 

“What’s wrong?” Wrecker whispered. 

“The birdsong is too far away,” she muttered. There was something disrupting their environment, enough so that they decided to stay away from the area.

“The beacon should be right ahead,” Tech said, stopping the group. Specter looked around more, watching as Omega hopped up to a log and pulled out the beacon.

“Found it!” She handed it to Tech.

“So, where’s this reg?” Wrecker questioned, looking around as well and messing with some branches. Specter found an obvious clue at her feet; she got Hunter’s attention and nodded toward the marks on the ground.

“We’re already too late,” he said gravely, sniffing at the dirt between his fingers. “The clone was being hunted.”

“He was dragged,” Specter finished, looking off to where the marks led. “That way,” she said, leading the group. 

Closer to the mountain, Hunter stopped them.

“Hang on,” he said, kneeling down and tilting his head—Specter could tell he was sensing something. “There’s something here, inside that mountain.”

“I believe you are right,” Tech said, stepping forward with his datapad, “My scans are being jammed.” 

Specter would agree; the whisper in her head had become a soft buzz once they had reached the base of the mountain. Something was inherently wrong with the sight before them. 

“You said there was nothing on this planet,” Wrecker argued, looking at Tech.

“That data appears to be inaccurate,” he shrugged.

“Wrecker, why don’t you and Omega wait on this ship,” Specter suggested with urgency. Omega’s face contorted into confusion.

“Wait, why can’t-”

“Coming here was up for debate. This isn’t,” Hunter interrupted. The girl deflated but ultimately joined Wrecker in the hike back to the ship. 

The remaining four of them followed Hunter closer up the mountain. Specter stared at the mountain face once more when they stopped again.

“What is it?” Echo asked.

“A shuttle landed here,” Hunter explained. 

“What exactly is in that mountain?” Specter questioned, now frustrated at the mystery.

“Only one way to find out,” Hunter sighed, standing up and turning towards her. She sighed too, sizing up their path.

“It’ll be a long hike, but it’s doable. If we want to keep our momentum, we shouldn’t stop for breaks, got it?”

“Got it,” the boys replied. 

“Alright. Keep up the pace, fellas.”

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

Soon enough, they reached the top of the mountain and came upon a base inside it. Specter gave a low whistle, marveling at the scale of it before turning around to watch the rear.

“This looks like some sort of military base,” Hunter observed, astonished. 

“Not one that I’ve ever heard of,” said Tech. 

“Get down,” Specter hissed, seeing a shuttle approach. They heard the whine of its engines as it crested over the treetops and made a landing approach inside. 

“Come on. Let’s get a close look,” Hunter suggested. The group made their way down to the top of the base, peering over the edge above a lift shaft. 

“I’m clocking a couple of commandos and squads of clone troopers,” Echo reported, peering through his binocs. “And they’ve upgraded their armor.”

“What? Let me see!” Specter, almost too enthusiastically, trained her sniper scope to get a glimpse. “Pfft. You call that an upgrade? It looks terrible.”

“Let me see,” Tech reached for Echo’s binocs. 

“It’s not much to look at,” Specter mumbled, moving her sights to assess the rest of the complex.

“Not just that. The mountain’s natural composition makes this mase well-fortified and nearly impenetrable,” Tech assessed. 

“This is no longer just a simple extraction. Let’s get back to the Marauder and leave word for Rex,” ordered Hunter. Specter hesitated to get up, as did Echo. 

“But what about the mission?” he asked. Hunter and Tech had already made it several feet away, while Specter was still hoisting herself up off her stomach. 

“We do not know for certain if CC-5576 is even in there… or if he is still alive,” Tech argued. 

“We’d be going in blind without any reinforcements,” Hunter added. Specter sighed as she stood up, clicking her tongue and putting a hand on Echo’s shoulder. 

“I hate to bring this up, but we did the same on Skako Minor when we rescued Echo. he’d still be trapped in that place if we hadn’t.”

“If there’s a chance that trooper’s being held against his will, we have to try to get him out,” Echo added. Specter tilted her head, knowing Hunter would only need a few seconds before changing his mind and engaging in the mission.

“Let me update Wrecker then,” he sighed, crouching down again with Echo and Specter. She smiled under her helmet and returned to her stomach, keeping track of operations through her rifle scope. “Wrecker, do you copy?” Hunter called through the comm.

“Yeah, we hear ya. Did you find the reg?” their companion came through. 

“Not yet. But we did find an Imperial base built inside this mountain. We’re going in,” Hunter reported.

“Wait for us! We’ll help,” Omega chimed in. 

“Negative. Stay on the ship. You’re our backup,” he ordered. Specter could almost see Omega’s disappointed face, but this mission was too risky and none of them were comfortable letting the girl join. “Comms will be jammed once we’re inside, so keep alert.”

“If we’re not back by nightfall, get Omega back to Cid’s,” Specter added. She hated to think of the possibility of something bad happening to them, but a contingency plan was better than no plan. 

“I’ll need to tap into the central database to pinpoint CC-5576’s location,” Tech addressed the group.

“There are entry points we can access in the lift shaft. That’s our way in,” Echo said. Without another word, the group ran to the edge of the roof and jumped on top of the lift just as it arrived at the top floor. With its passengers off-loaded, the lift descended; Specter calculated their speed and noted the sides of the shaft, observing how they would be able to hold on.

“Get ready to jump,” Hunter announced in a hushed tone. On his signal, they all jumped off the lift and clung onto the side of the shaft, waiting for the coast to clear before making their way inside. Quietly and carefully, they snuck through the corridors. 

Echo plugged into a terminal, Tech stood beside him to help process the data. Specter kept an eye out for any form of surveillance, thankfully finding none. 

“Anything? Hunter asked.

“This encryption’s new,” Echo said. “This might take a while.” 

“Think you can do recon without getting caught?” Hunter quietly asked Specter.

“Like you even have to ask,” she scoffed, ducking around the corner and disappearing. 

Guards were sparse, oddly enough, but every now and then, a squad led by a commando would pass. Specter figured they were running drills more than they were actually patrolling… but she could always be wrong. She watched as a commando pulled out an access card and inserted it into a port by the lift doors. She took note—something they will have to keep in mind.

Her comm quietly beeped: Hunter’s recall signal. She rejoined the group at the terminal. 

“Well?” 

“Found him,” said Echo. “Cellblock 25, four levels down.”

“How does the security look?” Tech asked, turning toward Specter.

“Scarce. I’d say it’s suspicious, but it’s the best we got,” she shrugged, leading the group back to the outer lift shaft. 

After a quick climb down, they found the cellblock they were looking for and needed only to find their clone prisoner. A single guard paced up and down the hall, making some remarks toward an occupied cell. Hunter snuck up and punched him hard, knocking him out.

“Are you CC-5576?” Echo asked.

“That depends. Who’s askin’?” the clone inside asked. Specter ran forward, recognizing the tone of voice.

“No way, Gregor?” she exclaimed, lifting up her helmet. “I thought it was you!” Echo plugged into the terminal to open the cell.

“Hey, Specter!” Gregor greeted with a smile, recognizing her. “Now there’s a face I can’t forget.”

“Wow, you really did hit your head,” she teased, laughing and hugging her friend once he stepped out.

“You two know each other?” Hunter questioned apprehensively. 

“Oh, yeah. Spec and I are training room buddies,” Gregor explained. “What are you doing here?”

“Rex sent us to rescue you. Now, come on, let’s move out before anyone else misses you,” Specter said, nodding for him to lead. Tech, Echo, and Hunter gave each other confused looks but followed behind Gregor and Specter. 

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

The pair led the group down numerous corridors, minding any passing patrol squads. Eventually, they came to a junction with loads of troopers at the other end of the hall.

“They’re gathered for inspection. There’s no way past ‘em,” Gregor said.

“If we can’t reach the lifts, we can’t get out of here,” Echo added. 

“I can redirect them,” Tech chimed in, leading the group to a control panel further away. Gregor took the time to observe their armor.

“That armor… You didn’t mention your group were CCs, Spec,” he said. Specter giggled.

“Come on, Gregor, you know we’re too defective. You’re looking at CT-99s,” she gave a small bow. Hunter bit his tongue, not liking the way he kept calling her by the nickname he thought was exclusive to him. He also knew it was not the time to be jealous.

“Defective clones?” Gregor chuckled. “If you ask me, it’s the ones who want to stay here who are really defective.”

“What was your assignment?” asked Echo.

“I was an instructor-” an alarm cut Gregor off. Specter raised her rifle on instinct.

“What’s going on, Tech?” Hunter questioned.

“I keyed a Code 16 to redirect their forces. I don’t know what happened,” Tech explained, frantically looking for his mistake.

“Clone codes don’t work here,” Gregor hissed, “you just triggered a security alert!” 

Blaster fire broke out a second later, and the group dove for cover. Specter swore to herself, switching her rifle for her pistol as Tech threw smoke cover. The team shot to stun, hitting a few troopers. When she saw an opening, Specter dashed out into the line of fire through the smoke cover, using the wall to jump and pound into a trooper’s head, knocking him out, and using the continued momentum to drag the commando leader down to the floor, locking him in a tight chokehold with her legs until he stopped moving. Gregor and Hunter had followed her in as well, each taking down the last of the troopers. While the moment was still quiet, Specter swiped the key card off the commando’s belt.

“Is there another way off this base?” Hunter asked, coming around to pull Specter up.

“Only one way out. Up,” Gregor answered. 

“Look at this,” Tech spoke up, pulling the helmet off of a fallen trooper. “These are not clone troopers.” The man under the armor had a thin face and blond hair—definitely not a clone.

“That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you,” Gregor scoffed. “These are our replacements. If you can believe that.”

“Pfft, I don’t. I’m irreplaceable,” Specter shook her head before running off with the group. 

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

They ran through the maze of corridors, following Gregor’s lead while stunning any troopers in their path. Specter made sure to slow her pace to match the boys’; Tech ran up beside Gregor.

“Are you sure you know where you’re going?” he questioned.

“Hey, I’m the one who escaped here before!” Gregor sounded almost offended.

“And you were captured,” Tech reminded.

“After I made it out,” added Gregor. Specter rolled her eyes but smiled anyway—he was always an interesting and entertaining character. But also interestingly, the Imperial troopers were stunned too easily. Specter imagined she could simply walk down the hall and casually shoot them down. Gregor stopped them at the end of the hall.

“I thought you said you trained these guys,” Hunter commented.

“Yeah, it’s kind of pathetic. Are you a bad teacher?” Specter tilted her head, kicking at the limp hand of a fallen soldier.

“No, I just didn’t teach them everything. That wouldn’t be very smart, would it?” Gregor winked before leading them to the lift.

The soldiers inside were easily surprised and stunned; Hunter and Gregor dragged them out while the rest entered. Tech went to the control panel.

“We need an authorization code,” he said.

“I got it,” Specter fished for the stolen key card and tossed it to Tech.

“Where did you get a hold of that?” Hunter asked.

“Oh, I swiped it earlier,” she shrugged as the lift started rising to the top. Gregor chuckled before Echo spoke up and asked-

“These new troopers, what do you mean they’re our replacements?”

“Well, we clones are soldiers of a Republic that doesn’t exist,” Gregor started to explain. “These recruits come from all over the galaxy. They swear loyalty to the Empire. They’re not as skilled, but there’s an endless supply of ‘em.”

“Numbers aren’t everything,” said Hunter. 

“Maybe not, but they certainly count,” Specter mumbled, nudging him with her elbow. 

“They aren’t,” he insisted, nudging her back. The door to the lift opened, revealing a whole team of troopers. They ducked out of the way of the barrage of blaster fire before they closed the door again and started quickly descending.

“You were saying?” Tech asked sarcastically, giving a pointed look at Hunter.

“Thank you,” Specter appreciated his support of her point. 

“We’ll, uh, take a detour,” said Gregor, winded from the exertion.

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

Omega clutched onto Lula, pacing back and forth in the cockpit of the Marauder. It was nowhere near nightfall, but she felt it had been too long since they last checked in. Wrecker, lounging back in the co-pilot’s seat, was of no comfort. 

“How can you be so relaxed?” she asked him.

“Oh, I’m preparing,” he said, clearly not as worried as she was. “I’m chagrin’ up before I charge in.”

“We should’ve heard back from them by now. What if something went wrong?” Omega wondered, and given the team’s track record, it was not outside the realm of possibility. 

“I’m sure they got everything under control. Besides, Specter’s with them!”

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

“I feel like this is worse than before!” Specter shouted over the cacophony of blasters. Little by little, the group retreated down a hall, defending against the Imperial troopers hot on their tail. Her arms ached from using her pistol, but using her rifle wouldn’t make any difference in the battle they were in. 

“Hunter!” Tech shouted, tossing him a smoke bomb. Hunter caught it and threw it, allowing for them to stun the closest troopers and move out.

Rounding the corner, an orange armored commando jumped in and caught them off guard, shooting Gregor twice in the chest plate. The boys fired multiple stun rounds to no avail; Specter took the opportunity to drop her pistol and reach for her rifle. 

The world around her slowed as she aimed for his blaster, disarming him and his thigh, debilitating him. The commando finally went down as the world around her returned to normal. 

She looked at the rifle in her hands, finding nothing different or peculiar. The odd sensation came and went quickly enough. Blaster fire from down the hall interrupted her thoughts. She holstered her pistol and ran towards cover.

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

Oddly enough, the control room they found sanctuary in was empty, but they took the chance to stop and recoup.

“Alright, let me see,” Specter said, taking off her helmet and lifting Gregor’s arm to assess his wounds.

“How bad?” Hunter asked.

“Ha! Don’t worry about me. This is nothing. I got blown up once and survived,” Gregor waved it off. Specter smirked.

“Yeah, you’ll be fine. You’ll hardly notice it tomorrow,” she patted his shoulder, even though he winced in pain.

“They have all access points to the central ring blocked off,” Echo reported. Tech came around with his datapad, analyzing the schematics of the complex.

“There,” he pointed up to a vent shaft. “Those pipes are reactor conduits.”

“And?” Hunter tilted his head for him to continue. 

“Well, they should lead to the main reactor’s external exhaust port. That is our path to the outside,” Tech explained. 

“The exhaust vent’s halfway up the mountain. We can’t survive that jump,” said Gregor as Specter helped him stand upright. 

“Well, we should be able to signal our ship from there,” she said. 

Tech threw a small grenade at the grate to the vent. The explosion popped it off, allowing for Tech to hoist up Hunter and Specter so they could help the others up. 

Hunter kicked another vent grate off, leading to the final passageway to the exhaust port. It was still daylight outside; Specter breathed a sigh of relief. 

“Hey,” Hunter muttered, grabbing her attention. “Nice shot back there, with the blaster and the leg. How did you do it?”

“Oh, I don’t really know. It just… felt right,” Specter shrugged. “You want to try calling Omega and Wrecker?” Hunter nodded.

“Wrecker, Omega, come in,” he said into the comm, motioning for the group to keep going.

“We read you, Hunter,” Omega’s voice came through; Specter felt herself relax.

“We have the target, but we ran into some trouble. We need a pickup,” Hunter reported.

“On our way,” the girl reassured. The team made it to the edge of the exhaust port, noting the very distant ground below. Specter’s stomach flipped, perhaps in sympathy for Wrecker’s absence. 

“Ooh,” Gregor chuckled, “glad we’re not going that way.”

“You and me both,” Specter mumbled, shuffling an inch back away from the ledge. 

“We are on approach!” Omega said through the comm. Indeed, the Marauder had risen up out of the trees and made its way toward them.

“We see you,” Tech replied. 

But unfortunately, so did the troopers that followed them through the passageway. Blasters were fired from behind, the group ducked out of the way to the surrounding rocky ledge. Specter continued firing, carefully aiming around the rocks of the cliff. Tech signaled at her; she nodded at his plan.

Together they jumped out into the open, Tech went high while Specter crouched low and stunned the troopers in their way, covering the Marauder’s approach. The pair ducked out of the way as Wrecker appeared behind them on the gangplank of the ship, firing into the tunnel. 

“Little closer!” he shouted into the ship. 

“Is Omega flying?” Specter wondered aloud. 

“Come on!” Wrecker urged as the ship drifted closer to the ledge. Hunter and Echo covered Tech as he jumped on first and dashed inside to take over. Specter helped Gregor jump, Wrecker helped him on board. As Specter was about to jump, the Marauder pulled away to dodge incoming fire from Imperial air support. She yelped, almost losing her balance before Hunter pulled her back to safety. 

Without a second thought, she pulled out her rifle and shot down a fighter in retaliation, growling. Echo and Hunter continued firing into the tunnel, slowly but surely taking down the troopers. 

“We’re coming back around. Be ready!” Tech said from the comms.

“Copy!” Specter replied, shooting down another soldier. The ship came around again with Omega at the door. 

“Jump!” she cried, reaching out. 

“Echo, you first!” Hunter ordered. He nodded and joined Omega, reaching for whoever was next. “Spec!”

“Not without you!” she protested. 

“Go!” Hunter shouted. Specter groaned and did as she was told just before more air support arrived with a barrage of fire. Tech began to pull away. Hunter jumped… but slipped and fell off the gangplank. Omega gasped.

“Hunter!” Specter screamed, reaching out for him with only Echo and Omega holding her back. He seemed to fall in slow motion, reaching out for her. Her heart pounded in her head; she thought of every possible way to save him, but to no avail. Hunter already twisted around to try and break his fall in the treeline and someone yanked her back inside the ship. Tech flew away as fast as he could until the blaster fire ceased.

“Multiple system failures!” Tech cried from the cockpit. “We cannot take many more hits!” 

“Hunter?” Specter tried through the comm, hoping he was still okay. 

“Get the ship out of here,” he said, “I’ll find another way back.”

“Absolutely not!” she argued.

“The odds of escape are not in your favor,” Tech added.

“Go, Tech! That’s an order!” Specter flinched as Hunter yelled, feeling tears crawl down her face under her helmet. 

“No! Turn around! We have to go back for him!” Omega cried, rushing into the tail gun. “Hunter, tell them to come back! Order them to come back!”

“Hunter, don’t do this,” Specter whimpered. They heard him sigh.

“Sorry, girls. I can’t do that.” 

Hey guys, thank you for reading this chapter! Don't forget to vote in the poll if you want me to continue this series!

[katyspersonal]

I ended up playing more SoTE after a break of several days, actually some interesting progress but also two-parter!

1) Went to Scorpion River catacoms on accident while trying to explore that interesting area with RED Kindred of Rot, and was lowkey disappointed.. because it is a repetitive one. :/ I believed the previous catacomb featuring Godwyn lore was unique! But this one's purpose is to give you another Knight of Death weapon and another variant of talisman by Godwyn @ his Knights! 🙄

^....and also another Messmer's Knight Spirit Ash variant, when Andreas is the hammer-wielder variant! Though the bit about personal attachment by Messmer is a cool one! Same unique ash energy as Ogha or Finlay I suppose

2) Okay MAYBE this catacomb wasn't THAT repetitive since it featured unique mechanics of goddamn Basylisk statues shooting THESE GODDAMN STUPID EYES

3) Also if a second person in this world exists who has weird fixation of collecting everything even if they will never use it.. do not grind the Lion-mask Imps for the helmet. They do drop their swords, but not their helmets. Their head piece is FOUND in this catacomb!

Basically it is exactly what you think - it is on one of the platforms accessed by jumping on the spikey plate as soon as it got down and then getting down fast enough when it moves! Just boost your death resistance here since it is in the room with the rocky bridge!

4) Okay so after that I finally decided to go to the Finger Ruins now that I've learned it was accessible by normal means!!! That was so cool! Really large place with many nooks though;;

5) At first I thought these were snakes with arms and legs, but no! They're lampreys!

(Really liked how I could get this angle gfjyhf)

6) Whereas most of these enemies sorcerer (?) variants used the spell I wasn't familiar with, one of them was using exactly the same purple spell as ringed Fingercreepers use! I took screenshots of it and usually when I have to screenshot something too fast for the phone I just then take a picture of THE screenshot on my phone gfghvv This time I forgot, but yes I still got it on PS! This is really interesting though? I wonder whether lamprey people adopted it from Fingercreepers, or, since only ringed Fingercreepers can use that spell it were lampreys that taught them and gave them a catalyst!

7) I was running around the area for a while instead of getting straight to the point, staring at these formations wondering whether they are cracked eggs (of lamprey?) or the fingers:

I assume that they are the latter by now! They in many places look like they are digging out of the earth, they vary in sizes and often look multilayered more than cracked! Also since these giant fingers are also rocky and are shown broken sometimes!

8) This is actually really funny how there are canonically characters that were obsessed with researching Fingercreepers to the point of insanity, considering how I kept breaking my mind trying to figure them out at least four times gfhbbbgfb

And there is a ghost near which you pick it that does state these ruins are their place of origin! Damn my pre-DLC thoughts on Fingercreepers aged like MILK, granted today I finally nuked the post. XD

I am definitely writing it in the list of the times ER's lore transcended the narrative and effected the reality x) *looks at people who were brainwashed to think Shabriri's solution was good* look who is talking

9) Who wish to become fucking WHAT??

Just another normal day in the Elden Ring universe I suppose hfhtgghjh

10) Got this talisman after ringing that big bell:

I thought it was an odd choice of the reward, but I guess not really? Okay so, I returned to Ymir about it and,

11) Well I saw this 🌛

So he gave me a map and the talisman, and then had new dialogue about Marika and Miquella, further explaining how Erdtree thing was corrupt / doomed to rot from the start to explain why Miquella had to remove all of it from himself to actually get anywhere! That makes drop of that talisman from the rock less random.. They've connected the dots, they've connected them.

12) I start to understand why the girls like him so much from what I've seen, this guy really thinks on some other plane x)

13) The talisman that he gave also reminded me of Sellen's monologue about primeval current and how everyone were children of the stars after all and needed to return to them!

Honestly that stuff was one of my favourite niches to think about, and what I did not expect from the DLC was returning to these themes! Feels very comfy! Like, I got something I did not even ask for only because I didn't even hope for elaboration :')

14) He also could teach two new spells after this, that are basically just variants of one another:

I haven't tested them yet, but sorcerer lamprey in the Finger Ruins were using these sorceries I believe! They were also pale blue and ricochetting!

15) After that I of course wanted to get to the next Finger Ruins already, so I asked @val-of-the-north how do I get to that spot on the map without passing the Shadow's Keep.. Turned out that I don't. 🤡 That is pretty much the area I've been avoiding, but yeah, I had to make my way to it now! That's on the next post though I am out of screenshot spots 🌛

[intercoursefluids]

WDIB Chapter 17

Marinette sat back against the headboard, pillow pulled to her chest as she listened to Damian explain what had happened, along with a few interjections by Jon, who she now knew as he long lost brother.

Long lost twin brother.

Apparently, they both had their dad’s (Her biological father’s) eyes. Which explained why they were so painfully familiar; she saw them every time she looked in the mirror.

“We were operating under the assumption that you were aware of the situation and wanted to come with us. It wasn’t until we met face to face that we realized we were wrong in that assumption.” Damian said, running a hand through his hair. “For what happened after, I’m sure Alya will want to be the one to tell you, or you can find the video online.”

“Video?” Marinette asked looking up with wide eyes.

“Yeah, what video?” Jon asked, a confused frown covering his face.

Damian glanced between them before sighing.

“Right, neither of you were awake for that. Long story short, someone filmed your akumatization, Marinette. Me and Alya tried to get it taken down, but it’s been an uphill battle. It’s being reposted faster than we can get them taken down.” Damian explained.

“Oh.” Marinette replied.

She should have expected this, akumatizations were never a private affair. It sucked, but she couldn’t exactly oppose to it.

It’s not like she was the only person who was thrust into the public eye because of an akumatization.

“How bad was it?” She asked, remembering how catastrophic some of the battles had been.

Damian pressed his lips together, pulling out his phone.

“Do you want to watch the video?” He asked, slowly unlocking his phone.

Marinette hesitated for a moment, she’d never been comfortable watching akuma videos, it had felt invasive but, this was her video…

In the end, she said yes.

Marinette accepted the phone from Damian, ignoring how desperately Jon was trying to pretend he didn’t also want to watch and opting to just tilt the phone so they could both watch.

It wasn’t violent, which she had been expecting, but it was still… Haunting. In its own right.

It looked like she was drowning, trapped underwater and not even caring.

Watching herself turn Alya into a completely lifeless doll made Marinette feel nauseous.

It wasn’t until the video ended that Marinette turned her attention back to Damian, one question burning in her mind.

“Did I… Is Hawkmoth?”

“From what I could understand, yes. The heroes haven’t announced anything publicly, but it seems likely.”

Marinette slumped, disbelief coating her entirely.

Hawkmoth was gone.

Hawkmoth was gone and she had been the catalyst for it.

She didn’t know what to do with that information.

“What is everyone calling her? My akuma?” Marinette asked, arms hanging limply by her sides.

“Princess Serenity.” Damian answered.

Well.

She’d certainly heard worse.

In her disbelief, Marinette almost missed Jon’s question.

“Who is that?” He asked, pointing to the lump on the chair.

Damian looked over curiously.

“Oh, that’s Adrien. Adrien Agreste.”

Marinette was going to puke.

Come Find Me In The Maribat Discord!<3

[serendipitysparks]

Satoru Gojo's Immense Power and Its Limitations

Plot Hole Discussion: Gojo is considered to be the most powerful jujutsu sorcerer, capable of overwhelming most opponents effortlessly, yet his limitations and weaknesses aren't always clear. For instance, how is he able to remain unchallenged despite the fact that he has such immense power? At times, it seems like Gojo could easily win battles that are otherwise drawn out, so the question arises: Why does he seem to struggle against certain opponents like Sukuna?

Possible Explanation: The limitations of Gojo’s powers may be more tied to the narrative needs of the story. His ability to defeat powerful enemies so easily would remove much of the drama from the series. Additionally, the introduction of powerful characters like Sukuna and others adds necessary tension to the plot.

The Curse of Rika (from the "Tokyo Metropolitan Magic Technical College" arc)

Plot Hole Discussion: Rika Orimoto’s transformation into a curse is a major plot point in the series, particularly in the "Shibuya Incident" arc. However, the explanation for why she becomes a curse, despite Yuuta’s attempts to protect her, feels a bit unclear at times. How exactly did Rika become so powerful? It's not completely explained why her curse became so strong or why her curse abilities are so unique.

Possible Explanation: This could be a deliberate attempt to keep some mystery surrounding Rika’s curse powers, adding suspense. However, this is often cited as one of the more mysterious elements of the plot.

The Death of Yuuji's Grandfather

Plot Hole Discussion: Yuuji’s grandfather, Wasuke Itadori, plays a pivotal role in motivating Yuuji’s entry into the jujutsu world. However, his death and the way it shapes Yuuji’s character is a bit unclear. There’s a lack of real explanation about the timing of his death in relation to the plot's major events, as well as how his death is suddenly used as a plot device for Yuuji's involvement in the jujutsu world.

Possible Explanation: This might be a plot element used to drive Yuuji into the storyline without delving too deep into his grandfather's backstory. It's not uncommon in shonen manga to have a catalyst that propels the main character forward.

The Cursed Objects and Their Origins

Plot Hole Discussion: Throughout the series, we see many cursed objects that are powerful and significant. However, their origins, why they are cursed, and how they are made are never fully explored. For example, the special grade cursed objects like the fingers of Sukuna play major roles, but the details about how they came to be or how they’re linked to the curse world remain vague.

Possible Explanation: These objects could be used as plot devices, allowing the story to unfold without explaining every single detail. The mystery of these objects might also serve to build the world of curses, leaving enough room for future exploration.

Sukuna’s Power and His Current Form

Plot Hole Discussion: Sukuna, also known as the King of Curses, is an extremely powerful curse who once had a physical body but now resides inside Yuuji Itadori. Despite being weakened and fragmented into multiple fingers, Sukuna seems to still possess incredible power, even controlling Yuuji’s body on occasion. The mechanics of how Sukuna can exert control, and why he hasn’t just overtaken Yuuji entirely, are not fully explained. The series doesn’t clearly reveal why he hasn’t killed Yuuji yet.

Possible Explanation: Sukuna’s relationship with Yuuji is still evolving, and there may be plot points in future arcs that explain why Sukuna hasn’t taken full control. The duality between the two characters is key to the story’s central conflict, so keeping some ambiguity around their connection might be intentional.

Kenjaku's Plans and Motivation

Plot Hole Discussion: Kenjaku is an enigmatic figure who has orchestrated many of the events in the series. However, his motivations and goals are still somewhat unclear. While we know he wants to create a world ruled by curses and has manipulated various events to achieve this, the specific details of his plans and how they fit into the larger world of Jujutsu Kaisen are still fuzzy. For example, why has he allied with certain characters like Mahito or manipulated others like Geto?

Possible Explanation: Kenjaku’s long-term plans and motivations may be intentionally ambiguous to maintain suspense and to build his character slowly. Since the series is ongoing, some of the answers may come later.

The Reverse Curse Technique and Its Limits

Plot Hole Discussion: The reverse curse technique is a powerful technique used by certain characters to heal injuries. However, the limitations of this technique are never fully explored. For example, it's not always clear why some characters can heal massive wounds while others are limited in what they can do. This inconsistency makes the healing power feel like a "plot convenience" at times.

Possible Explanation: The reverse curse technique’s inconsistencies might be due to the narrative’s focus on emotional weight and drama rather than strict adherence to logic. As such, it might be used when needed to serve the plot, but the limits of its use are unclear.

The Role of the Jujutsu Sorcerers’ Society

The Jujutsu sorcerers' society has many mysteries, including its structure and the way it operates. For example, it’s never fully explained how the hierarchy works or how sorcerers gain power. While we know about the existence of schools like Tokyo Metropolitan Magic Technical College and the Kyoto school, there are few explanations about how the system operates on a global scale or why certain schools have different approaches to fighting curses.

Possible Explanation: These details may be purposefully left vague to avoid bogging down the narrative with unnecessary exposition. It also provides opportunities for world-building in future story arcs.

Yuji’s Survival and Return to the World of Jujutsu

Plot Hole Discussion: Yuji Itadori’s survival after consuming Sukuna’s finger and being declared as a potential vessel for the curse is one of the series' biggest mysteries. While it’s explained that Yuuji can survive due to his exceptional physical abilities and Sukuna’s control, it still feels like a convenient plot device to keep the protagonist alive for the sake of the story.

Possible Explanation: Yuuji’s status as a vessel for Sukuna may serve as a narrative hook, creating tension as his fate is tied to the curse. The fact that he survives might also be a reflection of the world’s rules being broken or bent by his connection to Sukuna.

[clovermarigold]

Smoke & Ice Chap.7

Hey everyone! I am sooooo sorry for how long it took to get this chapter out (like half a year). I had a technical issue that ended up making me need to retake all my tests. A family pet died, and then I had a last minute surgery. So, things didn’t exactly go as planned lol. I’m looking to get back into writing more and thankfully this story gave me a pretty good urge to write as well as lasted the longest before I got writer's block at some point. Thank you all for your support and kind words. I absolutely love and read every single one of your comments. Even the ones not related to my health. Your comments are so hilarious, fun and inspiring. As a reward I made an extra long chapter. Thank you all for reading <3

Masterlist

Bold + Italicized = greek

~~~~~~~~~~

Gods above, men were easy. The second the Lin Kuei bastard had entered Greece his pompous dick swinging had alerted her to his weakness. Pride.

Calla had her reservations on being able to make the rabble leave, but now she was confident. After all, Bi han had looked ready to kill when she followed him into the gardens. Not that she blamed him, she had half a mind to throw him across the mangrove. Just a little more prodding and he’ll either lash out or leave. Either way he would be gone shortly. She would make sure of it. 

The fire god had unknowingly given her a hand in removing them from her presence by putting him in charge. She knew well enough that Liu Kang was blind and foolish, but she didn’t think it to this extent. Having someone so prideful and arrogant with so much unkempt power was a catalyst for undoubted disaster. 

Beyond that, there were obvious flaws in his other choices of representatives. The American was obviously taking nothing seriously, and his Japanese counterpart seemed to only be concerned with something of his the American had. The Shaolin with the hat was oblivious and thought with his stomach. And as for Raiden and Tomas….. She would hand it to Liu Kang, they would be obstacles for her. Well, had they not been made to babysit their fellow champions.

If one of them was set to represent Earth realm in the tournament, she would hope it to be Raiden. She knew nothing of his combat skills, but she would certainly not trust any of the others given their…. Intellectual struggles. 

“Matron?” Calla was dragged from her thoughts as Raiden had seemed to come to her side along with his companions. “Ah, I assume you’re ready to join us as Hamadryad?”. The group bowed, “we will work hard to prove our good intentions”. She had to hand it to Liu Kang, he had good taste in followers… for the most part.

This was a day that Calla would never forget. Looking back on it she wished she had done things differently. Maybe she could have assigned different tasks to her unwanted guests, maybe she could have approached the situation differently. But one thing stood as a fact. She should never have let Tomas near those kids. Everything had been going according to her plan. So why did Tomas have to ruin everything!

“This is Alycia, she leads our agriculture and harvests. Since you say that you were farmers I’m sure you will have no difficulty with assisting her”. The hand off went well enough, the two men not protesting as Alycia dragged them off, no doubt ready to take out all of her frustrations on them for invading her home. It was similarly easy with Johnny and Kenshi. Coriander not giving you so much as a second to explain what they would be doing before dragging them off to begin construction of the children’s home.

So why, WHY, did everything have to go upside down once Tomas was involved. It wasn’t even because of Bi han’s involvement. In fact, Bi han was absent from training. And the worst part, it wasn’t even because he messed up.

The Mangrove was the ideal location for the Hamadryad in many ways, one of the major reasons being space. The Mangrove’s training area was simplistic in design. Split into three sections; a wide open area for sparing, an area with target dummies, and an untouched overgrown area with trees and tall grass. 

To say Miche was excited would be an understatement. The blonde haired boy was practically bouncing off the walls since breakfast when he heard that Tomas would be training him. Calla couldn’t help but smile as she watched Miche ramble to the Lin kuei as the three approached the grounds, every other word switching out of english in lack of knowing the translation. 

A part of Calla felt a little bad for Miche. It was obvious that after the fire he had grown attached to Tomas, which was going to make his inevitable departure painful for him. Miche was the youngest of the Hamadryad. And the only one who had no concept of a life before the megáli fotiá. The last thing Calla wanted was for him to be at all like a paternal role to him. 

Which is why looking back on this day she would always wonder what the hell she had been thinking when she told Tomas to train him.

“Widen your stance” Tomas instructed, tapping Miche’s foot with his own. “Like this?” Tomas smiled, “exactly”.

It was almost unnerving how calm Tomas was. At this point a few others had begun to watch the lesson between him and Miche. That paired with Calla watching and openly judging him should have at least made him wary. But instead he seemed entirely focused on Miche. For a moment Calla had wondered if her plan had backfired.

Around half an hour had passed of Tomas teaching Miche to throw an opponent before he told the boy to take a break “Sister, what do you think?!”. “You’re learning fast. Well done” Calla gave a curt smile as the boy drank water. Looking over, Tomas seemed to be speaking to the small group of onlookers. Most of which were the children only slightly older than Miche…. Oh no.

Calla’s eyes widened as she watched a number of the smaller boys start to show off to Tomas, sparring with the air and laughing. She had accounted for everything. Their little groups arrogance, pride, ignorance, and folly. But she had never thought to take into account them actually being likable. Calla had half a mind to yell at the children to go away. But that would do little good in the end. No, she would have to pivot from this miscalculation. 

In a matter of minutes Tomas’ task of training a singular pupil had expanded into three. The two extra little boys being around two years older than Miche. “Elm! Misha! Leave our guest alone. He has enough to do”. Tomas could understand the gist of Calla’s meaning based on the way the two slinked backwards looking between him and her, “With respect, I would very much enjoy the opportunity to guide more students”.

Calla looked at Tomas from the corner of her eye, holding back the urge to narrow them in irritation. Turning back to the boys in question would prove to be another mistake, the now three of them huddled together looking pathetic and no doubt attempting to guilt her into caving.

“...Of course. If you insist” Calla smiled, before turning to leave. She took back what she said. Men weren’t easy. Boy’s were. And unfortunately for her there was at least one man in Liu kang’s little horde. 

~~~~~~~~~~

Johnny groaned, stretching his neck to the side as he approached the long low sitting tables sat underneath shaded ivy. Sitting next to Raiden he was quick to dive into the tray of cold fruits laid out. 

“You know when the matron said we would be helping rebuild an entire building, she could have mentioned by WE she meant us and two people”. Normally Kenshi would be quick to chastise Johnny for complaining, but he had to admit he was right. Coriander had them working non stop through lunch. Apparently, Dryads had different work and eating cultures than humans. Having two communal meals a day and not believing in breaks. 

“You think that’s bad?” Kung lao huffed, visibly stained in dirt. “Dryads harvest fields daily. Wait, let me rephrase that. The same fields, daily. Every time I thought we were done they just regrew everything”. 

“It was more than I anticipated, I will admit,” Raiden said, massaging his hands. “And that lady, Alycia, does not like us,” Kung lao shook his head before biting into an apple. “I think that’s true for everyone here, Kung lao” Kenshi said. The four watched as both Tomas and Bi han approached and joined across from them, “Are things going better on your end?”.

“The boys are making progress if that is what you’re asking” Tomas said, earning a glare from Bi han, “You were tasked with training one. We do not need you wasting our time on frivolous children”.

“I would hardly call this frivolous, Bi han” Bi han’s nose scrunched. “Divulging Lin Kuei secrets to Dryad brats is not our prerogative. Finish the mission, so we may leave” Harshly he stood to walk away. “What's up his ass?” from both sides Johnny was met by sharp elbows knocking into his ribs. 

Johnny sighed, “I’m starting to really miss meat” he looked at  the long tables flooded with Dryads eating together, searching for anything hearty. “Eat the vegetables Johnny, they’re filling enough on their own” Tomas said exhausted. As if on cue, the second he reached for his own plate a small swarm of young teens came buzzing over to surround him, overlapping Greek and laughter making it impossible to know what they wanted. 

What was understandable was the three hands pulling him from his seat towards another table. “And the chaperones are gone” Johnny sat up, “I’m gonna see if this place has anything to drink”.

~~~~~~~~~~

Calla sat with her arms crossed, “You’re pouting” Cypress took a sip of tea. Calla glared, “I don’t pout”. “You do”, Calla glared at Tomas. “He’s becoming a problem” Cypress looked over at the man currently covered in children before looking back to Calla with a brow raised. “Whatever shall we do? He is viciously teaching our children table manners” Calla’s eyes narrowed at the obvious sarcasm, “The last thing we need are people getting attached. The entire point of letting them in was to make them lose hope”.

“Careful, Sister, you’ll sour your dinner” Calla gave up staring at the Lin Kuei in favor of turning to Cypress. “I don’t want them worming themselves into their minds”. Cypress laughed, “hmm, by the looks of it the girls are particularly interested in his… worm” Calla’s eyes shot wide and darted back to Tomas who was surrounded by a number of the younger girls, a couple older ones too. 

“Absolutely not! Get away from him!” the group flinched, dissipating back to their tables. Calla rubbed her temple, trying to act as though she didn’t create a scene. Thankfully no one wanted to comment on it, or at least were too scared to. 

“Children” she huffed, “Chasing after the first thing with legs they see”. “It’s their first time seeing people from the outside world, you can hardly blame them for being curious” Cypress argued, “Honestly, I expected you to react the same”.

“I’ve dealt with the outside world more than enough” Calla rolls her eyes. “I’d hardly call threatening lost hikers a conversation” Cypress paused, “Sister… I am aware of your lack of interest when it comes to… physical pursuits” Calla was on edge. “And I know it is because you see yourself as a parent to the mangrove and everyone in it. Perhaps, being able to release any pent up urges with someone who will not remain for long would be-” Calla slammed the table, shooting up, cheeks red in embarrassment. This had certainly created a spectacle, both the Mangrove and Liu Kang’s brats staring at her. “You will never speak to me of this again”. 

“What was that about?” Johnny asked, watching as the matron stormed off. “Oh, suddenly I’m fluent in Greek, let me tell you all about it!” Johnny frowned at Kenshi’s tone. 

~~~~~~~~~~

Calla huffed as she stormed towards her home. The gall on Cypress! To try to give advice on her sex life. Cypress was well aware why she chose not to couple with any of the Hamadryad. She had practically raised all of them, with a few exceptions. And even then, after everything with Atticus… she couldn’t do that again.

She had half a mind to march to the temple and call upon the fire god himself and make him remove his pawns from her home. But that would do nothing but invite more trouble.

Calla sighed, perhaps going to the temple would be the better choice of action. Not summoning Liu Kang, certainly not. But tempering herself and seeking guidance in Lady Cetrion would be wiser than stewing rage in an empty home.

The temple was quiet as per usual at this time, the only sound emanating being the quiet flow of gentle rushing water. Calla never quite understood spirituality, even as matron. She just chalked it up to being too young. By the elder gods she hated that. Too young. It was the source of her every problem and insecurity. Lack of experience, continuous questioning, and now a plethora of intruders she allowed to stay in her home.

Even now, sitting in the wood and marble building, kneeling beneath her Lady’s statue she didn’t feel any divine guidance. Just… cold….Cold?

“In the time it took for you to notice me I could have killed you” the grating gravel voice of Bi han sounded behind her. “Have you come purely to interrupt my content or do you have an actual purpose here” her jaw ticked. 

“Content?” he laughed, “Your fists say otherwise”. Calla stood from her cushioned altar to face him. “You can fool everyone else with your charade but I know better” Calla puffed out her chest at the accusation. “I don’t know what is more insulting. That you are ill kempt to be the Hamadryads Matron, or that you’re the best the Hamadryad have to offer”. 

“Continue to spew vile in my Lady’s temple and I will show you how kempt I am” She popped the t, words dripping with malice. Calla looked up and down his figure. She had done nothing more than be in his presence and he looked ready to murder. Oh, now she understood, “Is it painful?”. “What-” Calla cut him off, “Having someone ‘beneath you’, have more power than you”. 

Cold vapor began to fume off of his shoulders and hands, mask failing to cover any of his rage. “Unkempt. No leash. No job other than the wellbeing of my own people. Must sound nice after years under Liu Kang’s thumb” his hand shot out to wrap around her neck, cold fingers frosting over her skin. 

“How sad” Calla said straight faced, concealing all fear she had in the moment in favor of the most pitying look she could give him. 

Now Bi han really was going to kill this bitch

Taglist

~~~~~~~~~~

@whore-of-many-hot-men

@cherryblossomly

@anightlikethisss

[seth-shitposts]

Oooohhhh, I wanna know about Force User Zeb and The Eyes of the Ashla 👀👀

Absolutely friend 🫂💙💙💙

Force User Zeb

For FUZ, it's from when we participated in Bahryn Festival 2023. We're taking a break from it, but I'll share some things about it.

We want to explore how cultures who are separated from the main region/mainstream cultivated their relationships with the force. In this AU, Zeb is force sensitive, but having grown up on his home planet, his parents chose to have him follow tradition of nurturing his connection to the ashla by learning from the Revered Masters.

[In the fic, somewhere we're going to explain that with Jaro Tapal, that was an attempt/mutual reaching out. Lasan being isolated by how far out they are, decided to exchange their love and respect to The Force/Ashla. Things were going well with them building a connection until it was severed by order 66. To protect themselves and after losing one of their own and an entire community that they trusted, they returned to their isolation. They were friendly to those in neighboring systems, but that was it.]

In this, Kanan and Zeb had been so crucial to bringing each other back into recommiting faith to the Force&Ashla. It's another thing that brought them close. And it had been catalysted by Hera.

We're going to incorporate the new concept Sebastián and I thought of, the sentient bo-rifles. Force User Zeb would be the perfect place for us to utilize it. Especially with how in this AU, Zeb has the psychometry ability!

Hondo is going to make several appearances. Because we want to build more upon the lasat prophecy and Hondo was such a key element to that. I want to keep to that theme through the story.

Which brings us to:

At one point, something that we've had in mind for the au since starting it, Hondo steals an artifact off an imperial black market smuggler. He has not a clue what it is. Whatever it is has something to do with Lasan [& The Ashla]. He tells kallus about how he can't get anyone to buy it. Kallus offers to make him food in exchange for it (so he can safely return it to Zeb. Kallus wants it out of imperial circulation entirely. So he wants it to return to the person who has the most right to it).

But the moment kallus touches it, it binds to him. Both through the ashla and physically. At first he thinks it's just stuck on him. It's not until later that he realizes that it has more to it than that. Ashla shenanigans ensue and Kallus routinely gets sent to a pocket of space/time where he meets with both a form of The Grand Inquisitor & The previous bearer of his bo-rifle.

We might revamp what we have so far, but it's still in debate between Sebastián and I. What might happen is that we could turn what we have up atm into a concept dump and proceed similarly as we have been doing with Defectors AU. Quilting it. It's been how we've gotten the most worn done and are still highly committed to it. Trying to work on a fic by only doing it a chapter at a time/in story chronological order is the main reason why it went into hiatus. Its very difficult for us to write a longer story in that way. (Which is why I'm so relieved we've learned more about quilting and have been able to do it intentionally.)

---

The Eyes Of The Ashla

We had been hoping to have this done for Halloween. As a Halloween special type thing.

@lost-in-derry gave us the prompt/concept and we started molding it. I'm still looking forward to it.

The concept we're doing is that Kallus has had the ability to see wisps, purple wisps, for as long as he could remember. He was never sure what they were. He found out early in life that only he could see or interact with them.

On Lasan, he realizes *exactly* what they are. Because he had never seen so many in one place. And they kept multiplying.

A big part of the concept and this fic is that the wisps are Bogan spirits, unrested or trapped. Kallus is tasked with guiding the wisps back to the light- to the Ashla, bringing them peace. Once he helps the first one, he just keeps going. Slowly but surely becoming much more intentionally about it. He doesn't fully understand it all, but the wisp of the guardsman he fought is a bit of a guide for him. The Bogan [in this au] contains the fury and wrath of injustices and Kallus slowly realizes this at some point after Lasan.

It's force sensitive kallus with a twist. There's much more to it, our notes are just scattered on it atm. Here's a snippet though.

[thetardisisnotourdivision]

I'm going to have to rewatch the series to see if this all makes sense. However, I have a theory that would cover up a good few plot holes in S5 of Miraculous:

I've seen a lot of people saying that it doesn't make sense that Nathalie has never made any effort to stop Gabriel before, and has in fact been a willing participant in many of his plans, if she promised Emilie that she'd stop him. But she wasn't always involved.

It's established that Emilie disappeared a while prior to "Origins" meaning that Gabriel clearly hadn't gone straight to the butterfly Miraculous as his immediate solution. However, notably, that day is Adrien's first day of school - he runs away and Nathalie is busy trying to track him down. My theory is that she'd been keeping an eye on Gabriel - making sure he couldn't use the Miraculous - and that day, because she was distracted with trying to find Adrien, Gabriel saw his chance and ran with it. Edit: this also explains why she forgot to get Adrien a birthday present, because generally she's very organised - we can safely assume that she was busy trying to keep on top of all the akumatisations and it slipped her mind.

Obviously Nathalie would then know that Gabriel was Hawkmoth - but she never turns him in. Why? The simple answer is "oh she was in love with him" but a) it's always felt a little bit on the Stockholm-syndrome side to me and b) I'm not buying that so early in the series - I'm fairly sure she isn't interested in him for quite a while, until around mid-S2. So why is it? There's actually a very easy answer here - Gabriel's her friend. Putting aside the fact that she's entirely dependent on the Agreste family (which I partially explained in another theory here) - she never goes home or seems to have any other family, and from the photos we see in Revelation, plus things she says in Passion and various other episodes, she, Gabriel and Emilie were very good friends. In S1 I don't think we ever see her do anything obvious, but at certain points of S2 she looks exhausted after talking to Gabriel about the Miraculous, implying that she's partially against him on this - notably at the end of Queen Wasp, where she confronts him - "I thought you'd given up".

So by the end of S2 she's angry, but not just with Gabriel - from Nathalie's point of view, Gabriel is still her friend and possibly the closest thing she has to family, and Ladybug and Cat Noir are prolonging his madness - in S2, she and Adrien, as well as Gabriel in some cases, are frequently targeted by akumas. Therefore, she starts to help him - leading to the line in Catalyst "They've been keeping you from achieving your dream for way too long. I will go to any length to end the reign of Ladybug and Cat Noir". Add to that the name of her akumatized form, Catalyst, meaning something that speeds up a reaction - she's not exactly aiding him, she just wants it over as quickly as possible. By the end of the episode, of course, she's become Mayura - as a desperate last resort, because no matter how obstinate he's being, Gabriel is still her friend and she doesn't want him to get into trouble, for both his and Adrien's sakes.

As of season 3, she becomes Mayura more and more often, even though it's hurting her, because she wants to help him - this is where she falls in love with him (*indistinct growling that sounds a lot like "utter bullshit"*) and wants to help him because of that - also, as Mayura she looks very different to her civilian form. This is where things get interesting and I'll do a separate post on it at some point, but Nathalie's design is very similar to her civilian form as Catalyst - where ultimately she had some degree of control over her appearance - but as Mayura, it's very different. This is possibly because it's a more subconscious matter - Plagg tells this to Adrien at some point - and we could potentially see this as a very similar matter between Adrien and Nathalie, that using the Miraculous gives them not only superpowers but the ability to be who they really want to be, deep down. Of course, as Nathalie was weakened by the curse, using the Miraculous probably also became an incentive due to the fact that it will have given her back some strength and some sort of control over her life again - this sort of addiction that is now being alluded to with Gabriel, particularly in Evolution.

Then, after the finale, everything changes, and in S4, while she's still actively aiding Gabriel, she can't directly assist him anymore as Mayura. Perhaps she was keeping him in check a little before, or perhaps it's simply both of their characters changing, but throughout series 4 Nathalie appears to become more and more uncomfortable with Gabriel's actions, finally coming up with a solution in Evolution which would put everything to "rights" without hurting anyone - we can assume that she's had these plans for quite a while and has been waiting until they could get ahold of the Rabbit Miraculous. We could even perceive this as a test - she's trying to see whether he really does still care about Emilie (and, by extension, her) or whether he's just after Ladybug and Cat Noir now (as her plan did not involve either of them). When he fails, she cuts him off. She still can't turn him in, because that would implicate her (and undoubtedly Gabriel would immediately turn her in). But she does keep on working against him - in Passion, where she tries to take the Miraculous so she can grant her own wish, for example. Again, Passion is interesting because Safari's design is nothing like Nathalie's usual attire - bright, bold colours and dramatic clothes, like Mayura, implying that Nathalie is in control this time - she holds the cards here, and Gabriel has no choice but to let her try and carry out her plan, which very nearly works. Also, it implies that she's dropped all pretence and is refusing to conform to the "assistant" role anymore. In this episode the videos are revealed - videos that clearly hold a lot of sentimental value for Nathalie, as do the photos - did she perhaps take them without anyone knowing? The photos are burned at the edges, implying that somebody (probably Gabriel) tried to do away with them - but Nathalie, who thus far has been one of the least sentimental characters in the show, held onto them, and kept them safely locked away where no one would find them. The same with the videos - Gabriel says that the videos were destroyed, but we know they weren't.

I've gone way off track with this, but in my defense a) Nathalie is an absolutely fascinating character and b) I'm a media student. But you see my point - those videos didn't come out of nowhere, and neither did Nathalie's villain arc - they all built up very slowly and gradually over time.

[gospelofme]

Okay so I finally watched the last episode of The Bad Batch. This can go one of two ways.

Tech is dead or Tech is alive (but obviously injured)

Tech is dead

This could’ve been a legit self sacrifice by Tech in keeping with the significance of Plan 99. Clone 99 sacrificed himself to give his brothers a chance. Clone Force 99 is an homage to him.

This could be an important lesson for Omega. That someone would sacrifice himself for someone or people that he cared about, in an effort to protect them. Tech had the strength to make that decision. He loved her and his brothers enough to cut his connection to the railcar, thereby giving them a chance to live.

She can be sad, she can mourn his loss, but she can also honor it. She can use that chance he gave her to carry on the fight. She can remember that choice he made. It would’ve been the hardest choice, and the easiest. Hard because self-preservation is human nature, instinct would’ve told him NOT to shoot the connection. Easy because his brothers would have an opportunity to escape vs certain death for all of them. He calculated the odds and made the best decision. He embodied 99.

Tech is alive (but injured)

It is possible that Tech is alive. We’ve seen Echo survive being blown up in a ship. Hell, Gregor got blown up by a shit ton of Rhydonium and he’s okay (mostly). It’s possible that Tech was able to get into the railcar as it came closer to him while falling. Perhaps he was able to get inside and it protected him. This is valid since it protected the rest of the group when it jumped the track and busted through the stone wall. It was going at a very high speed and still provided some protection. Granted they were all injured but alive. Also, we have a ton of what could be cloud cover or mist (this is an alien planet after all), so we don’t know exactly how far of a fall he sustained.

Another point I use to justify Tech being alive is Hemlock’s own words. He gave Hunter back Tech’s goggles saying that was all he could salvage. Hemlock is all about experimentation and clones. I don’t see him just finding the goggles and giving up. I see that as being all he could find because there was nothing else. No armor, no body. Again, Echo’s helmet survived an explosion. Tech’s would’ve survived a fall. If he was indeed dead and gone, I can see Hemlock presenting Hunter with Tech’s helmet instead. That would drive the point home to both Hunter and the audience. Tech’s goggles are broken, they’re likely useless to him now, so why bother keeping them. It’s very likely he just discarded them.

We don’t know what all Plan 99 entails. It could be legit self-sacrifice. But it also could be something else completely. With the other plans, they either explain what they are or we can see what they are when they execute them. We don’t get that here. We just get “Plan 99”. The way Wrecker reacts when Tech says this does seem very impactful. And he is upset when they’re at Cid’s. Hunter and Echo are upset as well, Echo even isolating himself in the ship (he had said he didn’t like being secluded). So it’s possible that self-sacrifice was indeed Tech’s goal BUT he ends up living anyways.

Last thoughts

I honestly don’t know how I feel about either option. I like the character, he’s great! But I also feel like his sacrifice was important. It was like when Fives died. It sucked. It hurt. BUT it ended up being the catalyst for Kix to investigate independently. Rex filed his report which confirmed he wasn’t sure that Fives was crazy. He told Ahsoka to “Find Fives” before the chip took over which ultimately led to her to that report he had filed, thus saving his life and uncovering the reason for the chips. That discovery enabled the chips to be removed in other clones as well. None of that would’ve happened if Fives hadn’t died. So his death was impactful.

If they go the route of “he sacrificed himself with the understanding he wouldn’t survive, but he was okay with this because his team would escape…but we ended up not actually killing him off”, then I feel like it cheapens his intentions. But they did that with Gregor, so perhaps they’ll do that with Tech as well. I’d be okay with it as long as it makes sense and it was all part of a larger end goal.

[4nt1chri5t]

Whispers of Betrayal - fem!readerxDracoFF

Originally published on Wattpad - Whispers of Betrayal by Alaskas_ice (me)

5 - 'The Enigmatic Dance of Potions and Stardust'

The common room was filled with the sound of giggling girls, whispers between friends and questions as to what was going on. Malfoy, however, knew exactly what was going on - the Yule Ball was just around the corner. After all, he had grown up in a wealthy family, so he knew about almost every event that was of some importance to the wizarding world, even if it was just a ball that students attended.

But wait, it was the Yule Ball. Another brilliant way to make an impression on (Y/L/N)'s mind,' Malfoy thought. With that, he could build up even more trust, until eventually she wouldn't even think about not trusting him for whatever reason, and would be completely convinced that all of his ideas and opinions were the right ones. But how was he going to do that? His thought process was interrupted by a second year who bumped into him in all his nervousness. He pushed him aside with a look of disgust that could have been his signature look.

(Y/L/N) didn't really know what the Yule Ball was, so she had to ask someone. Since it was a ball and she at least knew what that meant, she decided to ask Luna. Even if she was strange, she would most likely be helpful with this question. And she didn't want to get on Malfoy's nerves. So (Y/L/N) got dressed up and made her way to the Great Hall early, hoping to meet Luna either on her way or in the Great Hall.

On her way to the Great Hall, (Y/L/N) hoped to find Luna and ask her all the important questions she had in mind. Luna's unique perspective and gentle demeanour made her the ideal person to provide insight into the upcoming event, (Y/L/N) thought to herself. As (Y/L/N) entered the Great Hall, she spotted Luna sitting at a table, seemingly lost in her own thoughts. Approaching her with a smile, (Y/L/N) took a seat next to Luna.

"Hi, Luna! Do you have a moment? I might have a few questions about the Yule Ball, as I've been hearing a lot of giggling and whispering about it all morning. I've been trying to remember what it was, but I just can't figure it out. I was hoping it would just come back to me like my orientation - but no luck this time it seems," (Y/L/N) said as if she had to explain herself. Luna listened carefully and smiled softly as soon as (Y/L/N) sat down next to her.

"Oh, hello there, (Y/N). Of course I have a moment. What would you like to know about the Yule Ball?" she asked in her dreamy manner.

"Well, I know what a ball is, but could you enlighten me as to what makes this one so special and different from others?"

Luna's ethereal gaze turned towards (Y/L/N) as she pondered the question. Her voice was soft and comforting, as if she was talking to a friend in need. "Losing memories can be like chasing shadows in a moonlit forest, but fear not, (Y/N). The Yule Ball is a bewitching celebration that dances with enchantment and twirls with elegance. It's an extraordinary event woven into the fabric of the Triwizard Tournament, where students gather to revel in the magic of the night."(Y/L/N) listened intently, captivated by Luna's whimsical words.

"Unlike other balls, the Yule Ball has a unique charm. It brings together not only the students of our beloved Hogwarts, but also the competitors and guests of the Triwizard Tournament. It's a grand tapestry of unity, where friendships are forged and secrets of the heart are whispered to the melodies of swirling waltzes".

(Y/L/N)'s eyes widened, the concept of the Yule Ball painting vivid images in her mind. "But why is it so special?" she wondered, her curiosity growing.

Luna's voice carried a hint of mystery as she continued, her words laced with gentle understanding. "The Yule Ball serves as a catalyst for enchantment and transformation. It's an opportunity for us to transcend our everyday selves, dressed in exquisite attire that mirrors the stars in the night sky. It's a night where dreams are woven into reality and memories are etched into the heart. Each step on the dance floor holds the potential for magic, as hearts find solace in the embrace of a dance partner".

(Y/L/N) absorbed Luna's words, feeling a sense of wonder and excitement grow within her. "That sounds incredible," she whispered, a slight smile on her lips.

"It really is, (Y/N). The Yule Ball is a radiant tapestry of moments waiting to be discovered, a chance for you to make new memories and perhaps even reclaim some that have been lost. Embrace the magic and let it take you on a journey of self-discovery and connection".

"Stop me if this is inappropriate, but would you mind telling me if you have someone in mind to go with?" (Y/L/N) asked, chuckling. She had the feeling that she could talk to Luna about anything and everything, so why shouldn't it be girly stuff? A few giggles couldn't hurt.

"I would have loved to traverse the dance floor under the glowing moonlight, but alas, I am but a humble third-year wanderer, destined to wait for my turn to dance under the stars. The Yule Ball beckons to those of higher years, whisking them away into a realm of elegance and grace, while I will watch with wide-eyed wonder, weaving stories in my mind". Luna replied, giggling despite her dreamy way of explaining things. "But I may return your question. Have you found a dance partner, someone with whom you can waltz through the starry night?"

"I haven't found one yet, I'm not even sure I'll find one. After all, there seemed to be a lot of trouble before my incident. So who knows..." (Y/L/N) replied, wondering if there was anyone who would ask her. One thing she knew, she wouldn't have the courage to ask anyone right now, after everything that had happened.

"Oh, don't worry, (Y/N). The universe has a way of aligning the stars and bringing unexpected connections."

(Y/L/N) smiled at her answer, still interpreting what it might exactly mean. Luna truly had a special and unique way of expressing her feelings and talking to friends.

However, the Great Hall was starting to become filled with students and as soon as he saw Malfoy sitting down at the Slytherin table - although she didn't see him enter the Great Hall - she knew it was time to leave and eat something before the breakfast ended. She said goodbye to Luna and walked towards the group of boys, which today was only Nott, Zabini and Malfoy. If she was honest to herself, she liked those three the most. Crabbe and Goyle just weren't her piece of cake.

She sat down and greeted them, as if she'd done it a thousand times before. It almost felt like routine she thought, but how could it be different since this situation must've been normal before her memory loss. After all, she was grateful to even have someone to sit with after such a strange time. She wouldn't know what she'd do without them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The day started with Potions, which they apparently had with the Gryffindor students. But that meant she had to see them, who Malfoy now called Blood Traitors when talking about them in (Y/L/N)'s presence. Although she didn't know exactly what had happened before the incident, she had built up enough trust with Malfoy that she felt strange whenever any of the three of them crossed her path. She couldn't bear the thought of what they had done to her - or what they would do if she gave them the chance to catch her alone. The whole situation made her stomach turn and she felt sick, so she forced herself to think of something else - which wasn't hard considering Snape marched in and shouted at the class to be quiet.

Malfoy was a little late, but as soon as he arrived, he silently made his way to the empty seat next to (Y/L/N), which once again earned her some strange looks from the Gryffindor students, especially from the three who never seemed to look away anyway.

She thought Snape would yell at Malfoy, or at least say something about him being almost five minutes late, but nothing happened, which made her wonder.

"We will continue our study of antidotes, students. I expect you all to know where we left off and come prepared." Snape said in his deep voice and gave no further instructions on what to do. Great, (Y/L/N) thought. How could he expect her to know everything after everything that had just happened? But it seemed as if Malfoy had come prepared for the two of them, as he shoved his book in the middle of the table and laid each ingredient on the table twice, handing her the second set of ingredients, including Wiggentree twigs, castor oil and extract of Gurdyroot.

(Y/L/N) started reading the instructions, which stated:

1. Add four Wiggentree twigs, or until the potion turns green. 2. Stir until the potion turns orange. 3. Add Castor oil  until the potion turns blue. 4. Stir until the potion turns purple. 5. Add Extract of  Gurdyroot until the potion turns red. 6. Add Wiggentree twigs. 7. Add Extract of Gurdyroot until the potion turns purple. 8. Leave the potion to simmer till it turns red. 9. Add more gurdyroot extract till it turns green. 10. Stir till it turns orange.Add seven Wiggentree twigs. 11. Allow to simmer till it turns pink.

It sounded easy, but it soon turned out to be harder than expected. (Y/L/N) could have sworn she was doing everything the way it was supposed to be done. But still, the potion wouldn't turn purple after the second time she added the Gurdyroot extract. She looked confused, which Malfoy soon noticed, as he'd already finished his perfect looking pink potion.

"You didn't stir long enough." Malfoy said.

"What?"

"You didn't stir long enough, in step 4. That's what happens. But move over, it's an easy fix," he said confidently, concentrating. He seemed to know what he was doing, which made him sound almost like a professional.

(Y/L/N) moved a little so he could get closer to her and her cauldron. He began to add ingredients, stirring now and then in a concentrated manner. "So have I always been bad at potions?"

"I'd love to tell you otherwise, but my mother taught me not to lie when it wasn't to my own advantage, so I have to tell you - you weren't the worst, but you certainly weren't the best, (Y/N)," he answered honestly - which might have been the first truth he'd told in a long time - and gave her a smug grin.

"Disappointing, but still, I must say that I am grateful to have you," she replied, giving him a sincere smile, while still closely watching what he was doing and how he was doing it. Every move he made seemed so simple and yet so precise, it clearly impressed her as it was her 'first time' seeing him like this.

He suddenly stopped moving and looked at her. "Now just add the seven Wiggentree twigs and wait," he instructed her.

She carefully took the twigs and added them to the orange potion. Even though this step was probably the easiest, she was still afraid of doing something wrong. But after a while, the potion turned the same shade of pink as Malfoy's.

This might have been a small success for others, but she clapped silently for herself and turned to Malfoy with a bright smile on her face, which made him smile genuinely. However, his thoughts soon took over and he corrected himself, thinking how ridiculous it was to be happy about something as simple as following clear instructions from a book, which was far below his standards.

The lesson was soon over and everyone was getting ready to leave when Snape said loudly, "Gryffindor students may leave, but Slytherin students will be staying a little longer. We'll have two more lessons in the next two hours, for which I'll have to explain something.

This announcement was followed by a few students whining. Malfoy and (Y/L/N) both had the same thought, as they could both think of better ways to spend their free time.