#which I know they did to pitch the love triangle harder

[sochilll]

Okaaaay just finished my first re-read of all 3 Hunger Games books since I was 12..... inconsolable frankly

[davidmann95]

How about those JL storyboards?

In case you haven’t heard, Zack Snyder is putting on display the ‘storyboards’ - i.e. a rough plot summary accompanied by some Jim Lee sketches - for what would have been Justice League 2 and 3, or as this puts it 2 and ‘2A’. You can see them here (I imagine better-quality versions will soon be released), and read a transcript here. This is evidently a very early version: this was apparently pitched prior to the release of BvS and Justice League being rewritten in the wake of it, with numerous plot details that now don’t line up with what we know about the Snyder Cut, plus it outright mentions it builds on the originally planned versions of the Batman and Flash movies. But it’s a broad outline of what was gonna go down, and while I initially thought it was Snyder throwing in the towel, the timing - paired with the ambiguity left by the necessity for changes, including that this doesn’t factor whatever that “massive cliffhanger” at the end of the Cut is - says to me he’s hoping this’ll be a force multiplier behind efforts to will sequel/s into existence. He’s probably right.

I’ll be discussing spoilers below, but in short: with this Zack Snyder has finally lived up to Alan Moore, in that like Twilight of the Superheroes I wouldn’t believe this was real as opposed to a shockingly on-point parody if not for direct, irrefutable evidence.

Doing some rapid-fire bullet points for this baby to kick us off:

* Folks who know the subject say a lot of this is a yet further continuation of Snyder doing Arthuriana fanfic with the League reskinned over those major players, and I’ll take their word for it.

* I don’t know whether I love or hate that in Justice League 2 the Justice League are only an extant thing for the first scene, and then it’s Snyder giving everybody their own mini-movies. It’s compressing the entire MCU “loosely interconnected solo stories leading to a single big movie later” strategy into a single movie!

*  Funniest line in the whole thing: "Even Lantern has heard of the Kryptonian, worried that he's under the control of Darkseid. He heard his spirit was unbreakable." Hal what fuckin' Superman movie did YOU watch? Second funniest being “IT WILL GIVE HIM POWER OVER ALL LIVING LIFE”

* 90% of the plot I have nothing to say about, it’s generic stage-setting crap. That to be clear is the ‘shocked it’s Snyder’ element, it feels so crassly commercial in a way I can’t believe is coming from the BvS guy.

* Most of what I have to say is unsurprisingly gonna be about a handful of characters but Cyborg’s happy ending being “he isn’t visibly disabled anymore!” is not great!

* The Goddess of War battle with Superman...never pays off? No clue why it’s there.

* What I’d originally heard was that the Codex in Superman’s blood was the last key to the Anti-Life Equation and that’s why Darkseid was coming to Earth. It’s not like all of this wouldn’t have already been averted by Kal-El’s pod smacking into an asteroid on the way to Earth so it’s not as if this makes it any more Superman’s fault, and it would have at least tied all this back to the beginning of the movies, but I suppose that was either fake or from a later draft.

* I have NO idea how this was reimagined without the ‘love triangle’, it’s the central character thing and the entire climax flows directly out of it!

* Darkseid’s kinda a chump in this, huh

Anonymous said: So: Does Zack Snyder hate Superman?

Look: the hilarity of this when Cuck Kent has been a go-to Snyder cult insult towards ‘inferior’ takes on Superman for years cannot be understated, yet at the same time I can almost wrap my brain around where Snyder’s coming from with that as the end for his take on the character. He talked in that Variety piece on how his interest in Superman is informed by having adopted children himself, and Deborah Snyder is the stepmother to his kids by previous relationships, so I can see where he’d be coming from, and I can even imagine how he’d see this as ‘rhyming’ in the sense of “the series begins with Kal-El being adopted by Earth, it ends with him adopting a child of Earth!” In the same way as MARTHA, I can envision how he would put these pieces together in his head thematically without registering or caring what the end result would actually look like. In this case, Superman raising the kid of the man who beat the shit out of him who Batman had with Clark’s wife, who earlier told Bruce she was staying with Clark because he ‘needed her’, suggesting if inadvertently that this really honest to god was a “she’s only staying with Superman out of pity, she really loved Batman more” thing.

But Clark is nothing in this. He’s sad and existential because of coming back from the dead I guess, then he’s corrupted, then time’s undone and he woo-rah rallies the collective armies of the world (interesting angle for the ‘anti-military/anti-establishment’ Superman he’s talked up as) as his big heroic moment in the finale, and then he stops being sad because he’s adopting a kid. So his big much-ballyhooed, extremely necessary five-movie character arc towards truly becoming Superman was:

Sad weird kid -> sad weird kid learns he’s an alien, is still weird and sad, maybe he shouldn’t save people because things could go really wrong? -> his dad is so convinced it could go wrong he lets himself die -> ????? -> Clark is saving people anyway -> learns his origin, gets an inspiring speech about being a bridge between worlds and a costume -> becomes superman (not Superman, that’s later) to save the world, albeit a very property-damagey version, rejects his heritage he just learned about and space dad’s bridge idea -> folks hate him being superman and that sucks though at least he’s got a girlfriend now -> things go so wrong he considers not being superman but his ghost dad reminds him shit always goes wrong so he should be good anyway, which sorta feels like it contradicts his previous advice -> immediate renewed goodness is out the window as he’s blackmailed into having to try and kill a dude but the dude happens to coincidentally have some things in common so they don’t kill each other after all -> big monster now but superman keeps supermaning at it because he loves his girlfriend and he dies -> he’s brought back, wears black which apparently means now he likes Krypton again? -> he has work friends now but he’s still sad because he was dead -> evil now! -> wait nevermind time travel -> rallies the troops -> his wife’s having a kid so he’s not sad anymore -> Superman! Who gives way to more Batman.

Do I think Zack Snyder is lying when he says he likes Superman? No. I think he sincerely finds much of the basic conceits and imagery engaging. But I don’t think he meaningfully gives shit about Clark as a character, just a vessel for Big Iconic Beats he wants to hit. Whereas while for instance he’s critical of Batman as an idea (at least up to a point), he’s much more passionately, directly enamored with him as a presence and personality. So while Superman may be the character whose ostensible myth cycle or arc or however it’s spun might be propelling a lot of events here, it’s a distant appreciation - of course the other guy takes over and subsumes him into his own narrative. Of course Batman is the savior, the past and the future (though if he’s supposed to be Batman’s kid raised by Superman there’s no excuse for him not to be Nightwing), the tragic martyr to our potential. Admittedly the implication here is also that Batman can apparently only REALLY with his whole heart be willing to sacrifice his life to save an innocent, for that matter apparently his great love, once said innocent is a receptacle for his Bat-brood, but he and Clark are both already irredeemable pieces of shit by the end of BvS so it’s not like this even registers by comparison.

Anonymous said: That “plan” Snyder had was utter dogshit. Picture proof that DC & WB hate Superman. Also I love how you’re like Jor-El: Every single idealistic take you had about Snyder, his fandom, and BvS was wrong. Snyder’s an edgy hack, his fanbase just wants to jerk off to their edgy self-insert Batgod as he screams FUCK while mowing people down with machine guns, and the idea that BvS said Superman was better than Bats was completely wrong. You know what comes next SuperMann: Either you die or I do.

In the final analysis, beyond that mother of god is there sure no conceivable excuse for the treatment of Lois in this? The temptation is to join that anon and say as I originally tweeted that these were “built entirely to disabuse every single redemptive reading of the previous work and any notion of these movies as nuanced, artistic, self-reflective, or meaningful”.

...

...

...yeah, okay, that’s mostly right. Zack Snyder’s vision really was the vision of an edgelord idiot with bad ideas who was never going to build up to anything that would reframe it all as a sensible whole. He’s a sincere edgelord genuinely trying really hard with his bad ideas who put some of them together quite cleverly! But they’re fucking bad and the endgame was never anything more than ramping up into smashing the action figures together as big as he could, the political overtones and moral sketchiness of BvS while trying to say something in that movie reverberated through the grand scheme of his pentalogy in no way beyond giving his boys a big sad pit to rise out of so when they kicked ass later it’d rule harder, and all the gods among men questions and horror and trappings were only that: trappings. Apparently he’s really pleasant and well-meaning in person, but at his core his art as embodied in a couple weeks in his 4-hour R-rated Justice League movie meant to be seen in black-and-white all comes down to that time he yelled at someone on Twitter that he couldn’t appreciate Snyder’s work because it’s for grown-ups. He made half-clever, occasionally exciting shit cape movies for a bunch of corny pseudo-intellectual douchebags, folks latching onto and justifying blockbusters that at least acknowledge how horrifying the world is right now even if the superheroes are basically useless in the face of it if not outright part of the problem until a convenient alien invasion shows up to justify them, and a handful of non-asshole smart people who vibe with it but...well. ‘Suckered’ is a harsh word, and definitely doesn’t apply to all of them re: what they’ve gotten out of it up to this point and would (somehow) get out of this. But it doesn’t apply to none of them, either.

[panic-based-riot]

Gilded Chapter 1

Fandom: Inheritance Cycle

Pairing: Murtagh x OC, Eragon x OC, love triangle

Warnings: None

Ilirea tightened the blue scarf around her white blonde hair, tugging the sides to make sure they were snug. A small sigh passed her lips. Thankfully it was still in place. The men, or rather boys, who had been tugging at it were currently still on the streets, being scolded by their fathers on how to properly treat a woman. Slipping further away, between two houses, she turned and made her way past the edge of the village.

Ceris was small, situated at the eastern edge of Du Weldenvarden, the forest that housed the elves and their cities. The houses were small, only a single road running from the forest to the outer edge of the village. The houses seemed to grow right from the ground, as all did in the forest. Only here, on the outskirts of the forest, were humans allowed to dwell. But that didn’t stop Ilirea from wanting to see more of it. No matter how many times her mother had warned her, even on her deathbed. As the distance between Ceris and herself increased, Ilirea reached up and tugged the scarf from her head. Her straight hair tumbled in a silvery wave down her back, and the tips of her ears poked through. Not as prominent or sharp as any elf, but not the rounded ears of anyone else in her village.

Her mother had told her stories of her father when she was young. An elf from deep within the forest, who had met her mother while she was out harvesting berries from the forest. When she was almost killed by his companion who mistook her for a trespasser, her father had saved her mother’s life. And so, knowing how the Elves valued plants and their fruits, her mother offered her harvest, and to never take from the plants again. Her father had refused the offer, and asked instead for a warm meal and a bed for the night. Ilirea scoffed as she wandered through the trees. He had gotten a little more than that.

Kicking a small stone in her path, Ilirea sighed, and let out a soft curse. If her father were still alive, she wished he would come for her. Hiding her ears was easy enough, but her thin angular face and slanted eyes were another thing altogether. At least the trees did not judge nor mock her, and if they did it was only in the language of rustling leaves. The forest seemed to speak to her, to the soft music that whispered in her mind and the traces of elf magic in her veins. And so it called to her, beckoning.

With a sad breath, she sat at the base of a tree, closing her eyes briefly. She leaned her head back, her hands brushing the ground absentmindedly. They froze as she ran across something smooth and hard. Her fingers ghosted back across the surface under her fingers. She turned to look at the ground, and saw a bright yellow object, mostly obscured by dirt and small plants. She knelt, brushing the dirt away with both hands, pulling out the small plants that had rooted in the shallow soil. When enough of the object was cleared, she started gently pushing on it, rocking it back and forth to loosen it.

Slowly the dirt around it gave way and she slid her fingers into the crevice she had made next to the large object which she now suspected was some kind of jewel or precious stone. Pulling, Ilirea tugged it out of the dirt, nearly falling backwards with the effort. She picked it up, running her hands over it to brush off the dirt, and her almond shaped eyes widened. She had heard stories about the object she now held in her hands and had watched often from under the trees as the hero Rider Eragon had flown over on the beautiful blue dragon Saphira. They were undoubtedly working to restore the nation after they had freed them from the tyranny of Galbatorix. She also on occasion saw the elf queen Rider Arya and her emerald dragon Fírnen flying in the distance over Du Weldenvarden. But never in her 20 years had she imagined that she would hold this in her hands.

“A dragon’s egg…” Her voice came out as a whisper, and almost in response the egg thrummed lightly. Ilirea laughed softly, and stood, cradling the egg as gently as she would a newborn baby. Reaching down, she set it gently on the forest floor, then lifted the side of her top skirt. Pulling it through her skirt hike, she looped it up high, creating a small pouch-like area where she could easily carry the egg without others seeing it. She picked it up and gently deposited it into the new pocket she had just made. It settled in gently, thrumming softly against her thigh.

Ilirea gently made her way through the forest and back to the town, keeping one hand on the egg in her skirts. Just outside of the town she paused, wrapping her blue scarf back around her head and tied it on to hide her pointed ears. Satisfied she had hidden them well, she headed into town. Inside the gates, she waved hello to friends, but politely made her way straight home. Once she reached the one room house on the far side of the village, she closed and bolted the door behind her. Settling in the center of the room, she pulled out the yellow egg, running her hands over the smooth, cool surface. It felt warm and alive, and carried the scent of the forest. Dirt crumbled away as she cleaned it, speaking as she did so.

“The proper thing to do would be to find a way to get you to Queen Arya or Queen Nasuada. That way they could get you to Rider Eragon.” The egg thrummed again, deeper than before, as if displeased with the notion. “I don’t want to do that either.” For some reason, she didn’t want to part with it although she knew the chances of it hatching for her were slim. Soon the beautiful yellow egg was clean, and Ilirea caressed it gently. For her to have such a treasure in her hands...she was unworthy. She quickly placed the egg on the solid wooden floor and stood.

“Well, I don’t really know what a dragon egg needs…” Ilirea looked around and gathered some spare blankets from a chest in the corner of the room, and folded them together to make a nest of sorts. Pushing them together, she sighed, and reached into the back of her mind. The elven blood in her veins had gifted her with magic, though her mother had forbidden her use of it. Pushing through the barrier, she whispered one of the few words she knew. “Verma.” Energy flowed out of her, and the blankets in her arms grew warm, heated just enough to be comfortable.

Ilirea set them on the ground, resting herself next to them, breathing slightly harder from the effort. A moment passed and when she trusted her arms enough, she picked up the egg and set it in the now-warm nest of blankets. As she held it, she felt it thrum again and energy flowed from it, strengthening her after her spell. She quickly released it, breaking the connection and she pulled her hands close to her chest.

“Thank you, but I don’t deserve your magic.” The egg thrummed so low that it seemed to growl at her, and she sighed. “I shouldn’t even exist. But hopefully that will be enough to keep you comfortable, at least for the night.” Glancing around the small home, Ilirea stood. “Tomorrow, we leave. I have to take you to Queen Nasuada. She’ll give you to Rider Eragon.” She paused, “He will know what to do.” At that, the egg thrummed a discordant, unhappy pitch, then fell silent. Ilirea sighed and changed into her night clothes, collapsing on her small bed, and soon sleep overtook her.

Part 1/??

Taglist: @raiikuiii @gilded-moon @thebluemoonwolf @overlordspirit18 @nightsshadow1

Let me know if you’d like to be added to the taglist 

[rawliverandcigarettes]

Mass Effect Retribution, a review

Mass Effect Retribution is the third book in the official Mass Effect trilogy by author Drew Karpyshyn, who happens to also be Lead Writer for Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect 2.

I didn’t expect to pick it up, because to be very honest I didn’t expect to like it. 9 years ago I borrowed Mass Effect Revelations, and I still recall the experience as underwhelming. But this fateful fall of 2020 I had money (yay) and I saw the novel on the shelf of a swedish nerd store. I guess guilt motivated me to give the author another try: guilt, because I’ve been writing a Mass Effect fanfiction for an ungodly amount of years and I’ve been deathly afraid of lore that might contradict my decisions ever since I started -but I knew this book covered elements that are core to plot elements of my story, and I was willing to let my anxiety to the door and see what was up.

Disclaimer: I didn’t reread Mass Effect Revelation before plunging into this read, and entirely skipped Ascension. So anything in relation to character introduction and continuity will have to be skipped.

Back-cover pitch (the official, unbiased, long one)

Humanity has reached the stars, joining the vast galactic community of alien species. But beyond the fringes of explored space lurk the Reapers, a race of sentient starships bent on “harvesting” the galaxy’s organic species for their own dark purpose. The Illusive Man, leader of the pro-human black ops group Cerberus, is one of the few who know the truth about the Reapers. To ensure humanity’s survival, he launches a desperate plan to uncover the enemy’s strengths—and weaknesses—by studying someone implanted with modified Reaper technology. He knows the perfect subject for his horrific experiments: former Cerberus operative Paul Grayson, who wrested his daughter from the cabal’s control with the help of Ascension project director Kahlee Sanders. But when Kahlee learns that Grayson is missing, she turns to the only person she can trust: Alliance war hero Captain David Anderson. Together they set out to find the secret Cerberus facility where Grayson is being held. But they aren’t the only ones after him. And time is running out. As the experiments continue, the sinister Reaper technology twists Grayson’s mind. The insidious whispers grow ever stronger in his head, threatening to take over his very identity and unleash the Reapers on an unsuspecting galaxy. This novel is based on a Mature-rated video game.

Global opinion (TL;DR)

I came in hoping to be positively surprised and learn a thing or two about Reapers, about Cerberus and about Aria T’loak. I wasn’t, and I didn’t learn much. What I did learn was how cool ideas can get wasted by the very nature of game novelization, as the defects are not singular to this novel but quite widespread in this genre, and how annoyed I can get at an overuse of dialogue tags. The pacing is good and the narrative structure alright: everything else poked me in the wrong spots and rubbed how the series have always handled violence on my face with cruder examples. If I was on Good Reads, I’d probably give it something like 2 stars, for the pacing, some of the ideas, and my general sympathy for the IP novel struggle.

The indepth review continue past this point, just know there will be spoilers for the series, the Omega DLC which is often relevant, and the book itself!

What I enjoyed

Drew Karpyshyn is competent in narrative structure, and that does a lot for the pacing. Things rarely drag, and we get from one event to the next seamlessly. I’m not surprised this is one of the book’s qualities, as it comes from the craft of a game writer: pacing and efficiency are mandatory skills in this field. I would have preferred a clearer breaking point perhaps, but otherwise it’s a nice little ride that doesn’t ask a lot of effort from you (I was never tempted to DNF the book because it was so easy to read).

This book is packed with intringuing ideas -from venturing in the mind of the Illusive Man to assist, from the point of view of the victim, to Grayson’s biological transformation and assimilation into the Reaper hivemind, we get plenty to be excited for. I was personally intrigued about Liselle, Aria T’loak’s secret daughter, and eager to get a glimpse at the mind of the Queen Herself -also about how her collaboration with Cerberus came to be. Too bad none of these ideas go anywhere nor are being dealt with in an interesting way!!! But the concepts themselves were very good, so props for setting up interesting premices.

Pain is generally well described. It gets the job done.

I liked Sanak, the batarian that works as a second to Aria. He’s not very well characterized and everyone thinks he’s dumb (rise up for our national himbo), even though he reads almost smarter than her on multiple occasions, but I was happy whenever he was on the page, so yay for Sanak. But it might just be me having a bias for batarians.

Cool to have Kai Leng as a point of view character. I wasn’t enthralled by what was done with it, as he remains incredibly basic and as basically hateable and ungrounded than in Mass Effect 3 (I think he’s very underwhelming as a villain and he should have been built up in Mass Effect 2 to be effective). But there were some neat moments, such as the description of the Afterlife by Grayson who considers it as tugging at his base instincts, compared to Leng’s description of it where everything is deemed disgusting. The execution is not the best, but the concept was fun.

Pre-Reaperification Paul Grayson wasn’t the worst point of view to follow. I wasn’t super involved in his journey and didn’t care when he died one way or the other, but I empathized with his problems and hoped he would find a way out of the cycle of violence. The setup of his character arc was interesting, it’s just sad that any resolution -even negative- was dropped to focus on Reapers and his relationship with Kahlee Sanders, as I think the latter was the least interesting part.

The cover is cool and intringuing. Very soapy. It’s my favorite out of all the official novels, as it owns the cheesier aspect of the series, has nice contrasts and immediately asks questions. Very 90s/2000s. It’s great.

You may notice every thing I enjoyed was coated in complaints, because it’s a reflection of my frustration at this book for setting up interesting ideas and then completely missing the mark in their execution. So without further due, let’s talk about what I think the book didn’t do right.

1. Dumb complaints that don’t matter much

After reading the entire book, I am still a bit confused at to why Tim (the Illusive Man’s acronym is TIM in fandom, but I find immense joy in reffering to him as just Tim) wants his experimentation to be carried out on Grayson specifically, especially when getting to him is harder than pretty much anyone else (also wouldn’t pushing the very first experiments on alien captives make more sense given it’s Cerberus we’re talking about?). It seem to be done out of petty revenge, which is fine, but it still feels like quite the overlook to mess with a competent fighter, enhance him, and then expect things to stay under control (which Tim kind of doesn’t expect to, and that’s even weirder -why waste your components on something you plan to terminate almost immediately). At the same time, the pettiness is the only characterization we get out of Tim so good I guess? But if so, I wished it would have been accentuated to seem even more deliberate (and not have Tim regret to see it in himself, which flattens him and doesn’t inform the way he views the world and himself -but we’ll get to that).

I really disliked the way space travel is characterized. And that might be entirely just me, and perhaps it doesn’t contradict the rest of the lore, but space travel is so fast. People pop up left and right in a matter of hours. At some point we even get a mention of someone being able to jump 3 different Mass Relays and then arrive somewhere in 4 hours. I thought you first had to discharge your ship around a stellar object before being able to engage in the next jump (and that imply finding said object, which would have to take more than an hour). It’s not that big of a deal, but it completely crammed this giant world to a single boulevard for me and my hard-science-loving tastes. Not a big deal, but not a fan at all of this choice.

You wouldn’t believe how often people find themselves in a fight naked or in their underwear. It happens at least 3 times (and everyone naked survives -except one, we’ll get to her later).

Why did I need to know about this fifteen year’s old boner for his older teacher. Surely there were other ways to have his crush come across without this detail, or then have it be an actual point of tension in their relationship and not just a “teehee” moment. Weird choice imo.

I’m not a fan of the Talons. I don’t find them interesting or compelling. There is nothing about them that informs us on the world they live in. The fact they’re turian-ruled don’t tell us anything about turian culture that, say, the Blue Suns don’t tell us already. It’s a generic gang that is powerful because it is. I think they’re very boring, in this book and in the Omega DLC alike (a liiittle less in the DLC because of Nyreen, barely). Not a real criticism, I just don’t care for them at all.

I might just be very ace, but I didn’t find Anderson and Kahlee Sanders to have much chemistry. Same for Kahlee and Grayson (yes we do have some sort of love-triangle-but-not-really, but it’s not very important and it didn’t bother me much). Their relationships were all underwhelming to me, and I’ll explain why in part 4.

The red sand highs are barely described, and very safely -probably not from a place of intimate knowledge with drugs nor from intense research. Addiction is a delicate topic, and I feel like it could have been dealt with better, or not be included at all.

There are more of these, but I don’t want to turn this into a list of minor complaints for things that are more a matter of taste than craft quality or thematic relevance. So let’s move on.

2. Who cares about aliens in a Mass Effect novel

Now we’re getting into actual problems, and this one is kind of endemic to the Mass Effect novels (I thought the same when I read Revelation 9 years ago, though maybe less so as Saren in a PoV character -but I might have forgotten so there’s that). The aliens are described and characterized in the most uncurious, uninspired manner. Krogans are intimidating brutes. Turians are rigid. Asaris are sexy. Elcors are boring. Batarians are thugs (there is something to be said with how Aria’s second in command is literally the same batarian respawned with a different name in Mass Effect 2, this book, then the Omega DLC). Salarians are weak nerds. (if you allow me this little parenthesis because of course I have to complain about salarian characterization: the only salarian that speaks in the book talks in a cheap ripoff of Mordin’s speech pattern, which sucks because it’s specific to Mordin and not salarians as a whole, and is there to be afraid of a threat as a joke. This is SUCH a trope in the original trilogy -especially past Mass Effect 1 when they kind of give up on salarians except for a few chosen ones-, that salarians’ fear is not to be taken seriously and the only salarians who are to be considered don’t express fear at all -see Mordin and Kirrahe. It happens at least once per game, often more. This is one of the reasons why the genophage subplot is allowed to be so morally simple in ME3 and remove salarians from the equation. I get why they did that, but it’s still somewhat of a copeout. On this front, I have to give props to Andromeda for actually engaging with violence on salarians in a serious manner. It’s a refreshing change) I didn’t learn a single thing about any of these species, how they work, what they care about in the course of these 79750 words. I also didn’t learn much about their relationships to other species, including humans. I’ll mention xenophobia in more details later, but this entire aspect of the story takes a huge hit because of this lack of investment of who these species are.

I’ve always find Mass Effect, despite its sprawling universe full of vivid ideas and unique perspectives, to be strangely enamoured with humans, and it has never been so apparent than here. Only humans get to have layers, deserving of empathy and actual engagement. Only their pain is real and important. Only their death deserve mourning (we’ll come back to that). I’d speculate this comes from the same place that was terrified to have Liara as a love interest in ME1 in case she alienated the audience, and then later was surprised when half the fanbase was more interested in banging the dinosaur-bird than their fellow humans: Mass Effect often seem afraid of losing us and breaking our capacity for self-projection. It’s a very weird concern, in my opinion, that reveals the most immature, uncertain and soapy parts of the franchise. Here it’s punched to eleven, and I find it disappointing. It also have a surprising effect on the narrative: again, we’ll come back to that.

3. The squandered potential of Liselle and Aria

Okay. This one hurts. Let’s talk about Liselle: she’s introduced in the story as a teammate to Grayson, who at the time works as a merc for Aria T’loak on Omega, and also sleeps with him on the regular. She likes hitting the Afterlife’s dancefloor: she’s very admired there, as she’s described as extremely attractive. One night after receiving a call from Grayson, she rejoins him in his apartment. They have sex, then Kai Leng and other Cerberus agents barge in to capture Grayson -a fight break out (the first in a long tradition of naked/underwear fights), and both of them are stunned with tranquilizers. Grayson is to be taken to the Illusive Man. Kai Leng decides to slit Liselle’s throat as she lays unconscious to cover their tracks. When Aria T’loak and her team find her naked on a bed, throat gaping and covered in blood, Liselle is revealed, through her internal monologue, to be Aria’s secret daughter -that she kept secret for both of their safety. So Liselle is a sexpot who dies immediately in a very brutal and disempowered manner. This is a sad way to handle Aria T’loak’s daughter I think, but I assume it was done to give a strong motivation to the mother, who thinks Grayson did it. And also, it’s a cool setup to explore her psyche: how does she feel about business catching up with her in such a personal manner, how does she feel about the fact she couldn’t protect her own offspring despite all her power, what’s her relationship with loss and death, how does she slip when under high emotional stress, how does she deal with such a vulnerable position of having to cope without being able to show any sign of weakness... But the book does nothing with that. The most interesting we get is her complete absence of outward reaction when she sees her daughter as the centerpiece of a crime scene. Otherwise we have mentions that she’s not used to lose relatives, vague discomfort when someone mentions Liselle might have been raped, and vague discomfort at her body in display for everyone to gawk at. It’s not exactly revelatory behavior, and the missed potential is borderline criminal. It also doesn’t even justify itself as a strong motivation, as Aria vaguely tries to find Grayson again and then gives up until we give her intel on a silver platter. Then it almost feels as if she forgot her motivation for killing Grayson, and is as motivated by money than she is by her daughter’s murder (and that could be interesting too, but it’s not done in a deliberate way and therefore it seems more like a lack of characterization than anything else).

Now, to Aria. Because this book made me realize something I strongly dislike: the framing might constantly posture her as intelligent, but Aria T’loak is... kind of dumb, actually? In this book alone she’s misled, misinformed or tricked three different times. We’re constantly ensured she’s an amazing people reader but never once do we see this ability work in her favor -everyone fools her all the time. She doesn’t learn from her mistakes and jump from Cerberus trap to Cerberus trap, and her loosing Omega to them later is laughably stupid after the bullshit Tim put her through in this book alone. I’m not joking when I say the book has to pull out an entire paragraph on how it’s easier to lie to smart people to justify her complete dumbassery during her first negotiation with Tim. She doesn’t seem to know anything about how people work that could justify her power. She’s not politically savvy. She’s not good at manipulation. She’s just already established and very, very good at kicking ass. And I wouldn’t mind if Aria was just a brutish thug who maintains her power through violence and nothing else, that could also be interesting to have an asari act that way. But the narrative will not bow to the reality they have created for her, and keep pretending her flaw is in extreme pride only. This makes me think of the treatment of Sansa Stark in the latest seasons of Game of Thrones -the story and everyone in it is persuaded she’s a political mastermind, and in the exact same way I would adore for it to be true, but it’s just... not. It’s even worse for Aria, because Sansa does have victories by virtue of everyone being magically dumber than her whenever convenient. Aria just fails, again and again, and nobody seem to ever acknowledge it. Sadly her writing here completely justifies her writing in the Omega DLC and the comics, which I completely loathe; but turns out Aria isn’t smart or savvy, not even in posture or as a façade. She’s just violent, entitled, easily fooled, and throws public tantrums when things don’t go her way. And again, I guess that would be fine if only the narrative would recognize what she is. Me, I will gently ignore most of this (in her presentation at least, because I think it’s interesting to have something pitiful when you dig a little) and try to write her with a bit more elevation. But this was a very disappointing realization to have.

4. The squandered potential of Grayson and the Reapers

The waste of a subplot with Aria and Liselle might have hurt me more in a personal way, but what went down between Grayson and the Reapers hurts the entire series in a startling manner. And it’s so infuriating because the potential was there. Every setpiece was available to create something truly unique and disturbing by simply following the series’ own established lore. But this is not what happens. See, when The Illusive Man, our dearest Tim, captures Grayson for a betrayal that happened last book (something about his biotic autistic daughter -what’s the deal with autistic biotics being traumatized by Cerberus btw), he decides to use him as the key part of an experiment to understand how Reapers operate. So he forcefully implants the guy with Reaper technology (what they do exactly is unclear) to study his change into a husk and be prepared when Reapers come for humanity -it’s also compared to what happened with Saren when he “agreed” to be augmented by Sovereign. From there on, Grayson slowly turns into a husk. Doesn’t it sound fascinating, to be stuck in the mind of someone losing themselves to unknowable monsters? If you agree with me then I’m sorry because the execution is certainly... not that. The way the author chooses to describe the event is to use the trope of mind control used in media like Get Out: Grayson taking the backseat of his own mind and body. And I haaaaate it. I hate it so much. I don’t hate the trope itself (it can be interesting in other media, like Get Out!), but I loathe that it’s used here in a way that totally contradicts both the lore and basic biology. Grayson doesn’t find himself manipulated. He doesn’t find himself justifying increasingly jarring actions the way Saren has. He just... loses control of himself, disagreeing with what’s being done with him but not able to change much about it. He also can fight back and regain control sometimes -but his thoughts are almost untainted by Reaper influence. The technology is supposed to literally replace and reorganize the cells of his body; is this implying that body and mind are separated, that there maybe exists a soul that transcends indoctrination? I don’t know but I hate it. This also implies that every victim of the Reaper is secretely aware of what they’re doing and pained and disagreeing with their own actions. And I’m sorry but if it’s true, I think this sucks ass and removes one of the creepiest ideas of the Mass Effect universe -that identity can and will be lost, and that Reapers do not care about devouring individuality and reshaping it to the whims of their inexorable march. Keeping a clear stream of consciousness in the victim’s body makes it feel like a curse and not like a disease. None of the victims are truly gone that way, and it removes so much of the tragic powerlessness of organics in their fight against the machines. Imagine if Saren watched himself be a meanie and being like “nooo” from within until he had a chance to kill himself in a near-victorious battle, compared to him being completely persuaded he’s acting for the good of organic life until, for a split second, he comes to realize he doesn’t make any sense and is loosing his mind like someone with dementia would, and needs to grasp to this instant to make the last possible thing he could do to save others and his own mind from domination. I feel so little things for Saren in the former case, and so much for the latter. But it might just be me: I’m deeply touched by the exploration of how environment and things like medication can change someone’s behavior, it’s such a painfully human subject while forceful mind control is... just kind of cheap.

SPEAKING OF THE REAPERS. Did you know “The Reapers” as an entity is an actual character in this book? Because it is. And “The Reapers” is not a good character. During the introduction of Grayson and explaining his troubles, we get presented with the mean little voice in his head. It’s his thoughts in italics, nothing crazy, in fact it’s a little bit of a copeout from actually implementing his insecurities into the prose. But I gave the author the benefit of the doubt, as I knew Grayson would be indoctrinated later, and I fully expected the little voice to slowly start twisting into what the Reapers suggested to him. This doesn’t happen, or at least not in that slowburn sort of way. Instead the little voice is dropped almost immediately, and the Reapers are described, as a presence. And as the infection progresses, what Grayson do become what the Reapers do. The Reapers have emotions, it turns out. They’re disgusted at organic discharges. They’re pleased when Grayson accomplish what they want, and it’s told as such. They foment little plans to get their puppet to point A to point B, and we are privy to their calculations. And I’m sorry but the best way to ruin your lovecraftian concept is to try and explain its motivations and how it thinks. Because by definition the unknown is scarier, smarter, and colder than whatever a human author could come up with. I couldn’t take the Reapers’ dumb infiltration plans seriously, and now I think they are dumb all the time, and I didn’t want to!! The only cases in which the Reapers influence Grayson, we are told in very explicit details how so. For example, they won’t let Grayson commit suicide by flooding his brain with hope and determination when he tries, or they will change the words he types when he tries to send a message to Kahlee Sanders. And we are told exactly what they do every time. There was a glorious occasion to flex as a writer by diving deep into an unreliable narrator and write incredibly creepy prose, but I guess we could have been confused, and apparently that’s not allowed. And all of this is handled that poorly becauuuuuse...

5. Subtext is dead and Drew killed it

Now we need to talk about the prose. The style of the author is... let’s be generous and call it functional. It’s about clarity. The writing is so involved in its quest for clarity that it basically ruins the book, and most of the previous issues are direct consequences of the prose and adjacent decisions.The direct prose issues are puzzling, as they are known as rookie technical flaws and not something I would expect from the series’ Lead Writer for Mass Effect 1 and 2, but in this book we find problems such as:

The reliance on adverbs. Example: "Breathing heavily from the exertion, he stood up slowly”. I have nothing about a well-placed adverb that gives a verb a revelatory twist, but these could be replaced by stronger verbs, or cut altogether.

Filtering. Example: “Anderson knew that the fact they were getting no response was a bad sign”. This example is particularly egregious, but characters know things, feel things, realize things (boy do they realize things)... And this pulls us away from their internal world instead of making us live what they live, expliciting what should be implicit. For example, consider the alternative: “They were getting no reponse, which was a bad sign in Anderson’s experience.” We don’t really need the “in Anderson’s experience” either, but that already brings us significantly closer to his world, his lived experience as a soldier.

The goddamn dialogue tags. This one is the worst offender of the bunch. Nobody is allowed to talk without a dialogue tag in this book, and wow do people imply, admit, inform, remark and every other verb under the sun. Consider this example, which made me lose my mind a little: “What are you talking about? Kahlee wanted to know.” I couldn’t find it again, but I’m fairly certain I read a “What is it?” Anderson wanted to know. as well. Not only is it very distracting, it’s also yet another way to remove reader interpretation from the equation (also sometimes there will be a paragraph break inside a monologue -not even a long one-, and that doesn’t seem to be justified by anything? It’s not as big of a problem than the aversion to subtext, but it still confused me more than once)

Another writing choice that hurts the book in disproportionate ways is the reliance on point of view switches. In Retribution, we get the point of view of: Tim, Paul Grayson, Kai Leng, Kahlee Sanders, David Anderson, Aria T’loak, and Nick (a biotic teenager, the one with the boner). Maybe Sanak had a very small section too, but I couldn’t find it again so don’t take my word for it. That’s too many point of views for a plot-heavy 80k book in my opinion, but even besides that: the point of view switch several times in one single chapter. This is done in the most harmful way possible for tension: characters involved in the same scene take turns on the page explaining their perspective about the events, in a way that leaves the reader entirely aware of every stake to every character and every information that would be relevant in a scene. Take for example the first negotiation between Aria and Tim. The second Aria needs to ponder what her best move could possibly be, we get thrown back into Tim’s perspective explaining the exact ways in which he’s trying to deceive her -removing our agency to be either convinced or fooled alongside her. This results in a book that goes out of his way to keep us from engaging with its ideas and do any mental work on our own. Everything is laid out, bare and as overexplained as humanly possible. The format is also very repetitive: characters talk or do an action, and then we spend a paragraph explaining the exact mental reasoning for why they did what they did. There is nothing to interpret. No subtext at all whatsoever; and this contributes in casting a harsh light on the Mass Effect universe, cheapening it and overtly expliciting some of its worst ideas instead of leaving them politely blurred and for us to dress up in our minds. There is only one theme that remains subtextual in my opinion. And it’s not a pretty one.

6. Violence

So here’s the thing when you adapt a third person shooter into a novel: you created a violent world and now you will have to deal with death en-masse too (get it get it I’m so sorry). But while in videogames you can get away with thoughtless murder because it’s a gameplay mechanic and you’re not expected to philosophize on every splatter of blood, novels are all about internalization. Violent murder is by definition more uncomfortable in books, because we’re out of gamer conventions and now every death is actual when in games we just spawned more guys because we wanted that level to be a bit harder and on a subconscious level we know this and it makes it somewhat okay. I felt, in this book, a strange disconnect between the horrendous violence and the fact we’re expected to care about it like we would in a game: not much, or as a spectacle. Like in a game, we are expected to root for the safety of named characters the story indicated us we should be invested in. And because we’re in a book, this doesn’t feel like the objective truth of the universe spelled at us through user interface and quest logs, but the subjective worldview of the characters we’re following. And that makes them.... somewhat disturbing to follow.

I haven’t touched on Anderson and Kahlee Sanders much yet, but now I guess I have too, as they are the worst offenders of what is mentioned above. Kahlee cares about Grayson. She only cares about Grayson -and her students like the forementioned Nick, but mostly Grayson. Grayson is out there murdering people like it’s nobody’s business, but still, keeping Grayson alive is more important that people dying like flies around him. This is vaguely touched on, but not with the gravitas that I think was warranted. Also, Anderson goes with it. Because he cares about Kahlee. Anderson organizes a major political scandal between humans and turians because of Kahlee, because of Grayson. He convinces turians to risk a lot to bring Cerberus down, and I guess that could be understandable, but it’s mostly manipulation for the sake of Grayson’s survival: and a lot of turians die as a result. But not only turians: I was not comfortable with how casually the course of action to deal a huge blow to Cerberus and try to bring the organization down was to launch assault on stations and cover-ups for their organization. Not mass arrests: military assault. They came to arrest high operatives, maybe, but the grunts were okay to slaughter. This universe has a problem with systemic violence by the supposedly good guys in charge -and it’s always held up as the righteous and efficient way compared to these UGH boring politicians and these treaties and peace and such (amirite Anderson). And as the cadavers pile up, it starts to make our loveable protagonists... kind of self-centered assholes. Also: I think we might want to touch on who these cadavers tend to be, and get to my biggest point of discomfort with this novel.

Xenophobia is hard to write well, and I super sympathize with the attempts made and their inherent difficulty. This novel tries to evoke this theme in multiple ways: by virtue of having Cerberus’ heart and blade as point of view characters, we get a window into Tim and Kai Leng’s bigotry against aliens, and how this belief informs their actions. I wasn’t ever sold in their bigotry as it was shown to us. Tim evokes his scorn for whatever aliens do and how it’s inferior to humanity’s resilience -but it’s surface-level, not informed by deep and specific entranched beliefs on aliens motives and bodies, and how they are a threat on humanity according to them. The history of Mass Effect is rich with conflict and baggage between species, yet every expression of hatred is relegated to a vague “eww aliens” that doesn’t feed off systemically enforced beliefs but personal feelings of mistrust and disgust. I’ll take this example of Kai Leng, and his supposedly revulsion at the Afterlife as a peak example of alien decadence: he sees an asari in skimpy clothing, and deems her “whorish���. And this feels... off. Not because I don’t think Kai Leng would consider asaris whorish, but because this is supposed to represent Cerberus’ core beliefs: yet both him and Tim go on and on about how their goal is to uplift humanity, how no human is an enemy. But if that’s the case, then what makes Kai Leng call an Afterlife asari whorish and mean it in a way that’s meaningfully different from how he would consider a human sex worker in similar dispositions? Not that I don’t buy that Cerberus would have a very specific idea of what humans need to be to be considered worth preserving as good little ur-fascists, but this internal bias is never expressed in any way, and it makes the whole act feel hollow. Cerberus is not the only offender, though. Every time an alien expresses bias against humans in a way we’re meant to recognize as xenophobic, it reads the same way: as personal dislike and suspicion. As bullying. Which is such a small part of what bigotry encompasses. It’s so unspecific and divorced from their common history that it just never truly works in my opinion. You know what I thought worked, though? The golden trio of non-Cerberus human characters, and their attitude towards aliens. Grayson’s slight fetishism and suspicion of his attraction to Liselle, how bestial (in a cool, sexy way) he perceives the Afterlife to be. The way Anderson and Kahlee use turians for their own ends and do not spare a single thought towards those who died directly trying to protect them or Grayson immediately after the fact (they are more interested in Kahlee’s broken fingers and in kissing each other). How they feel disgust watching turians looting Cerberus soldiers, not because it’s disrespectful in general and the deaths are a inherent tragedy but because they are turians and the dead are humans. But it's not even really on them: the narration itself is engrossed by the suffering of humans, but aliens are relegated to setpieces in gore spectacles. Not even Grayson truly cares about the aliens the Reapers make him kill. Nobody does. Not even the aliens among each other: see, once again, Aria and Liselle, or Aria and Sanak. Nobody cares. At the very end of the story, Anderson comes to Kahlee and asks if she gives him permission to have Grayson’s body studied, the same way Cerberus planned to. It’s source of discomfort, but Kahlee gives in as it’s important, and probably what Grayson would have wanted, maybe? So yeah. In the end the only subtextual theme to find here (probably as an accident) is how the Alliance’s good guys are not that different from Cerberus it turns out. And I’m not sure how I feel about that.

7. Lore-approved books, or the art of shrinking an expanding universe

I’d like to open the conversation on a bigger topic: the very practice of game novelization, or IP-books. Because as much as I think Drew Karpyshyn’s final draft should not have ended up reading that amateur given the credits to his name, I really want to acknowledge the realities of this industry, and why the whole endeavor was perhaps doomed from the start regardless of Karpyshyn’s talent or wishes as an author.

The most jarring thing about this reading experience is as follows: I spent almost 80k words exploring this universe with new characters and side characters, all of them supposedly cool and interesting, and I learned nothing. I learned nothing new about the world, nothing new about the characters. Now that it’s over, I’m left wondering how I could chew on so much and gain so little. Maybe it’s just me, but more likely it’s by design. Not on poor Drew. Now that I did IP work myself, I have developed an acute sympathy for anyone who has to deal with the maddening contradictions of this type of business. Let me explain.

IP-adjacent media (in the West at least) sure has for goal to expand the universe: but expand as in bloat, not as in deepen. The target for this book is nerds like me, who liked the games and want more of this thing we liked. But then we’re confronted by two major competitors: the actual original media (in ME’s case, the games) whose this product is a marketing tool for, and fandom. IP books are not allowed to compete with the main media: the good ideas are for the main media, and any meaningful development has to be made in the main media (see: what happened with Kai Leng, or how everyone including me complains about the worldbuilding to the Disney Star Swars trilogy being hidden in the novelization). And when it comes to authorship (as in: taking an actual risk with the media and give it a personal spin), then we risk introducing ideas that complicate the main media even though a ridiculously small percent of the public will be attached to it, or ideas that fans despise. Of course we can’t have the latter. And once the fandom is huge enough, digging into anything the fans have strong headcanons for already risks creating a lot of emotions once some of these are made canon and some are disregarded. As much as I joke about how in Mass Effect you can learn about any gun in excrutiating details but we still don’t know if asaris have a concept for marriage... would we really want to know how/if asaris marry, or aren’t we glad we get to be creative and put our own spin on things? The dance between fandom and canon is a delicate one that can and will go wrong. And IP books are generally not worth the drama for the stakeholders.

Add this to insane deadlines, numerous parties all involved in some way and the usual struggles of book writing, and we get a situation where creating anything of value is pretty much a herculean task.

But then I ask... why do IP books *have* to be considered canon? I know this is part of the appeal, and that removing the “licenced” part only leaves us with published fanfiction, but... yeah. Yeah. I think it could be a fascinating model. Can you imagine having your IP and hiring X amount of distinctive authors to give it their own spin, not as definitive additions to the world but as creative endeavours and authorial deepdives? It would allow for these novels to be comparative and companion to the main media instead of being weird appendages that can never compare, and the structure would allow for these stories to be polished and edited to a higher level than most fanfictions. Of course I’m biased because I have a deep belief in the power of fanfiction as commentary and conversational piece. But I would really love to see companies’ approach to creative risk and canon to change. We might get Disney stuff until we die now, so the least we can ask for is for this content to be a little weird, personal and human.

That’s it. That’s the whole review. Thank you for reading, it was very long and weirdly passionate, have a nice dayyyyy.

[levinneheart]

Trouble Ahead

Prologue

A collab w/ @old-me-is-gone

➳ Description: This is a story between enemies; a middle school friend turned salty, a high school partner turned full debate sessions, and an unfortunate girl stuck in the middle… it seems there is going to be trouble ahead.

➳ Pairing: Tsukishima Kei x Feisty!F!Photographer!Reader x Akaashi Keiji

➳ Prompt: Frenemies, Enemies to Lovers, Love Triangle, Shy Confessions

➳ Genre: FLUFF, ANGST

➳ Word Count: 4,010

➳ Written by: @old-me-is-gone and co-edited by (banner also by): @levinneheart

➳ Disclaimer: Pictures used are not ours and are all credited to their owners. Haikyuu characters are owned by Haruichi Furudate.

Routes: Wit’s End || Partner in Crime

Middle school is meant to be a time where kids can develop and find themselves. In [Y/N]’s case, middle school was the time she garnered a skill and adept talent for photography while also meeting her first friend after moving from Tokyo.

Standing by the counter where she was waiting for her recent photos to be developed while she picked at her nails. The darkroom had become a place of solace for her. Moving from Tokyo to the middle of nowhere, a place also known as Miyagi, hadn’t been easy and starting middle school without any friends was even harder. Since no one made an effort to at least try and befriend her within the first month, [Y/N] had decided that she didn’t need anyone else. So being in the darkroom seemed to be the only valid option for her.

When her mom asked her about her day, she would ramble on and on about the fake experiences she had at school. In her fake world, she was popular and had a lot of friends. In reality, she was just the weird loner girl who took photos of trashcans around the cafeteria. [Y/N] had the darkroom all to herself as she was the only member of the photography club. Although, sometimes other clubs would use her clubroom to store excess club materials and such.

Leaving her to have a single counter for her photos. To make it an actual working darkroom, she used a red tissue paper that she had attached to the hanging ceiling light with a rubber band and blacked out the windows with random cardboard from the kitchens. The other two walls that she didn’t use were reserved for the volleyball club to shove extra netting and brooms into.

She really should have printed out a single paper that wrote: ‘Please Knock, Photos in Developing Stage’, that’s at least what she learned from the hindsight when the door opened again for the nth time and she was greeted with a single sliver of light. [Y/N]’s eye went wide as she stopped picking at her nails. “Wait! Don’t-”

The door slide completely open and [Y/N] squinted at all the sudden light. When she realized what had happened, she rushed to the tins of developing liquid and tried to cover them with her hands so her photos wouldn’t be exposed to light.

“Damn it.” She groaned. She tugged at her hair as her photos went streaky and the coloring blended in together from the light. [Y/N] felt a pang of sadness hit her heart as she whipped around to chastise the person who opened the door.

Standing in the doorway was an oddly tall blond boy. His hair seemed to glow from all the light streaming in. After rubbing her eyes slightly, [Y/N] could make out the glasses on his face and recognized him from the volleyball club. Tsukishima Kei.

Always pleasant visitor. She thought sarcastically, rolling her eyes.

“What the hell are you doing just hanging out in a darkroom?” Tsukishima walked in and inspected the shelves, looking for some equipment.

“Hey! Wait a minute! You should have knocked! Because of you, all my photos are ruined!” She exclaimed, huffing and stomping her foot as she brought Tsukishima’s attention to her by acting tough.

Tsukishima tilted his head before rolling his eyes and grabbing an air pump. Tossing it into the air before catching it again. “Because of me, your photos are ruined?” He scoffed at her, his tone was condescending and sarcastic.

[Y/N] stretched her hands out and gave a quick ‘duh’ in response. Tsukishima gave her a wicked smirk that begged to be punched off of his face. [Y/N] didn’t care if she was a lot shorter than him, she just wanted him to apologize for ruining her photos.

When Tsukishima started to walk towards the exit, [Y/N] ran to block the entrance while holding her hand out on either side of the frame and looking up at him as she sneered, “You need to apologize.” Tsukishima fake lunged at her, causing [Y/N] to flinch and bring her arms to her body while he grabbed hold of her shoulder and moved her away from the door with ease.

“I don’t apologize to entitled brats like you.”

“Entitled brat my ass,” She mumbled before chasing after him. “Get back here you tall excuse for a human!” When [Y/N] realized she wasn’t going to be able to stop him with force so she swallowed her pride and jumped on his back, wrapping her legs around his waist and holding onto his neck with her arms.

“What the fu-” Tsukishima turned around, before trying to pry her off.

“Not until you apologize!” [Y/N] argued.

“I’m sorry. Now, get off of me!”

“It doesn’t sound sincere enough.”

Tsukishima thought back to all the times he had jumped on Akiteru’s back, and how his brother had managed to get him to hop off all on his own. So, remembering what Akiteru did, Tsukishima dropped the air pump and started pretending he was being chocked.

[Y/N] immediately hopped off and ran in front of Tsukishima and held onto his shoulders. “Holy hell. Are you alright?”

Tsukishima held back a smirk as he faked being upset. “No. You really hurt me.”

“What can I do to make it up to you. Hell, I'm really sorry. Like really sorry.” [Y/N] rubbed her elbow and shuffled her feet. [Y/N] rubbed her elbow and shuffled her feet in guilt.

“I’ll think of something.” Tsukishima would never admit it but in the short period of time that he had known the strange (h/c) haired girl, he wanted to be around her more. Nobody had ever had the courage, or sheer idiocy to even try and stand up to him before.

[Y/N] threw her hands up into the air and glared at Tsukishima. “Great, you asshole! Now, I feel indebted to you for some emotional reason.” She picked up the air pump and started walking down the steps towards the gym when Tsukishima called out to her.

“What are you doing?” He walked down to her with a few short strides in his step.

“Helping you. I can work off this icky guilt by helping you. Okay? Let's go.”

Months went by after that. Tsukishima and [Y/N] most definitely didn’t become friends. They just sat together at lunch and hung out at the park. [Y/N] went to all of Tsukishima’s volleyball games whilst Tsukishima went to all of [Y/N]’s art shows. So no, they weren’t friends. They were, merely, people who shared a common experience and decided to continue building upon that shared experience.

Then, news of [Y/N] moving back to Tokyo happened during their third year in middle school. Someone heard [Y/N] talking to her dad on the phone about it, and eventually it spread like wildfire. Some people were pretty upset, after having gotten to know [Y/N]. Other people just honestly didn’t care, but instead wanted in on the drama.

The drama was that apparently since Tsukishima still didn’t know that [Y/N] was moving. And the entire school wanted to see him explode when he finally found out. Which meant that hordes of people hovered around Yamaguchi, Tsukishima, and [Y/N] as they went about their days.

“Do people just actively look for ways to piss me off.” Tsukishima grumbled as he took another spoonful of his chicken noodle soup. Tsukishima felt the eyes of the people hiding to the side of the wall right behind him.

“Tsukki, I honestly doubt it's that!” Yamaguchi comforted. [Y/N] was busy snapping photos of the trees far off while Tsukishima let his eyes and mind wander as he stared at her trying to find the right angle to take a picture. His Adam's apple bobbed when she stood up and stretched her back out. She knelt back down to take a photo but lost balance and fell on her butt, she laughed lightly at herself before getting back up. Tsukishima could feel his heart pound in his chest and his face heat up.

“Are you alright? You're looking a little red there Tsukki?’ Yamaguchi took a bite of the cookie his mom packed for him, talking with his mouth full.

“I'm fine. But, hey, why have so many people been like, extra nice to L/n? A whole bunch of guys from the volleyball club pitched in and bought her a polaroid camera.” Tsukishima wished that the group of underclassmen would have asked him to help pitch in to buy the yellow camera that she adores so much. She never left it alone, keeping it tucked away in its case amongst her school bag.

“Oh? [Y/N]’s moving to Tokyo. Remember?”

Tsukishima dropped his soup, the contents spilling all over the courtyard as he tightens his fists. “What?” He growls out while Yamaguchi slaps his hand over his mouth.

Mumbling his apologizes profusely, “[Y/N] said not to say anything, Tsukki please don’t hate [Y/N], she was just doing what she thought was best- “Tsukki, where are you going?” Tsukishima slams his hands against the table and pushes off, storming to where [Y/N] was standing.

“[Y/N]!” Tsukishima never yelled at her. So, she whips her head around to see a red-faced Tsukishima. [Y/N] thought she saw smoke coming out of his ears. “Were you going to tell me you were moving, or am I just an afterthought?” [Y/N] almost drops her camera from shock. She holds it tight to her chest, cradling it as she cowers away from the raging boy in front of her.

“I was gonna tell you.”

“No, you weren’t.” He spat. He gripped her forearm to pull her closer but when he did, [Y/N] dropped her yellow polaroid camera and it shattered, glass and parts of the camera flew around the concrete courtyard while her eyes glazed over with tears.

“You jerk! Don’t try talking to me, until you're ready to apologize for being such an asshole!” Tears fell from her eyes and spilling over her face before swinging her satchel over her shoulder as she marched to the school building. Tsukishima’s hands ran to his hair, pulling it tightly as he let out a short scream that sounded like a grunt. Yamaguchi walked into the school building and he knew, there wasn’t going to be a way to comfort Tsukishima’s mood when he got like this.

[Y/N] packed up and got ready to move. Putting all of her belongings into suitcases and duffle bags. When she was putting her pictures into her collection of shoeboxes, she glanced at the ones of her and Tsukishima. Her favorite picture was one she had originally given to Tsukishima for his birthday, but she liked it so much she had her mom scan it and print out another copy that [Y/N] laminated.

In the photo, [Y/N] had rubbed birthday cake all over Tsukishima’s face. Giving him a frosting mustache and his hair mixed in with chocolate cake. She pulled him in close, and Tsukishima rested his arm over his shoulders, he gave a side smile while rolling his eyes. Then she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, getting a photo of her giggling as Tsukishima turned to face her with a blushing face and cake all over him, his eyebrows shot up into his forehead.

Then [Y/N] remembered back at how he had grabbed her arm and made her drop her Polaroid camera. In a fury, she ripped up the photo, sliding down her bed and staring at the now empty wall that was once full of pictures of friends and family.

The next day, while saying goodbye to Yamaguchi, when her mom asked where Tsukishima was, [Y/N] simply said, “We aren’t talking at the moment.”

“Are you sure? I can always call his mom, and we can wait for him to come over so he can say goodbye?” Her mom waited outside the car, but [Y/N] got into the backseat and buckled her seatbelt, refusing to say more on the matter while Yamaguchi waved goodbye to her car that had begun driving off. He hoped that Tsukishima had gotten his text message. And he did, as of right now, he was begging his mom to drive him to [Y/N]’s house.

Tsukishima ran after her parents’ car, hopping out of his mom’s car and tried chasing after [Y/N]. Before realizing, she had already driven too far that his yells for her to come back fell to deaf ears. Tsukishima fell to the ground and stayed silent as he rubbed his thumb of the package of a yellow Polaroid camera that had a simple ‘I’m sorry’ written on a green sticky note.

When his chest began to heave, and his heart felt weighed down while watching her car got out of view. Because, for the first time, he longed for someone who was now gone. Someone who was really gone. And every day over the entire summer, he beat himself up more and more for not apologizing. Because not apologizing had meant that he lost the person he had grown closest to.

[Y/N] was used to going to new schools and moving around a lot in primary school, she had to adjust to all of the changes. But high school was a big jump. A bigger jump than any other jump she had ever taken. Luckily, Fukurodani had accepted her based on both her grades and her talent in photography, saying that such a talent must be nurtured with the right tutelage and proper education. Which [Y/N] thought was just a bunch of pretentious bullshit in order to try and use her grades on their average grade scale.

Needless to say, [Y/N] started her first day. Her dad had bought her a brand-new blue polaroid to make up for what had begun to be known around the L/n household as the ‘Tsukishima Incident’. Armed with a positive attitude and her blue camera, [Y/N] took the first step out of her house and into her high school career.

Trains move fast. And the train system was just so complex and so utterly beautiful. People rush around without a second thought. [Y/N] just had to capture that. Taking photos as she stepped onto the Fukurodani train though, probably wasn’t a good idea though. Because she bumped into someone and dropped her camera. When she heard the plastic crack she cringed and she turned around to face who she had run into.

A boy. A cute boy at that. One with dark blue eyes, with green floating around them. His black hair seemed to be slightly curly, or at the very least slightly wavy. [Y/N] opens her mouth slightly to try and say something but, no words come out as the boy stares to the side of her, not meeting her eyes. [Y/N]’s first thoughts were: wow okay, he’s hot and he’s intimidating.

Akaashi sighed before muttering, “Please pay attention, you could hurt someone.” He didn’t want to stare at her, so he opted for not meeting her eyes. Taking a mental note of her broken camera, and the way she didn’t wear the school skirt but chose to wear the pants instead. Not that he would admit that he was starting at her hips, or her legs for that matter.

“Sorry!”

“It's fine. Just don’t go bumping into people again okay?” Akaashi got off the train, the girl hopping off as well.

“Yeah of course.” [Y/N] paused, wondering if this could be the amplest time to make a friend at her new school, but when she looked back to him, he was gone.

Finally arriving to class, [Y/N] slipped into her new seat, and she bounced her leg up and down. Being in a mixed class with first and second years was going to be pretty exciting. She thought about all the people she could learn from and all the interesting things she would learn throughout the year. When the pretty boy walked in. [Y/N] stopped bouncing her leg in favor of just staying frozen.

Embarrassment flooded her senses. Akaashi sits down and makes conversation with the fellow second year next to him. [Y/N] slides down her seat and tries to cover her face with her long sleeve beige sweater. When the teacher walks in and brings the class to attention, [Y/N] clears her throat lightly and sits back up. Hoping that the boy doesn’t notice her sitting in the back row.

“For the rest of the year, I’m going to assign you partners.” Students immediately turn to look at each other and whisper about being partners. “Partners that I will personally assign.” Disgruntled cries erupt for a second before the teacher shoots a quick glare onto their pupils.

The teacher lists of names, and students shuffle around to sit next to each other. With every passing pair, [Y/N] feels her heart race.

“Akaashi Keiji and L/n [Y/N].” [Y/N] looks around for a moment, wondering about this ‘Akaashi’ guy before her throat goes dry. Sitting down next to her is the same guy she bumped into on the train. Akaashi recognizes [Y/N] from the train.

For the first week the two don’t talk. Merely passing homework between themselves to correct or when [Y/N] forgot a pencil that one time so Akaashi lent one of his to her. They were resigned to this emotional withdrawal from each other. Until they were assigned a project.

“I think it should be on the history of the modern developing process for film and such.” [Y/N] throws out. Tapping her pen against her notebook, accidentally causing ink spots to freckle across the page. Akaashi takes the pen away from her, in order to stop the incessant tapping sound that was beginning to distract him from coming up with an idea for the project.

“Well, the project should be something simple and straightforward. So, how about the history of volleyball? It can be traced back clearly through the Olympics and all of the data is already there.” Akaashi titles her page with VOLLEYBALL HISTORY. [Y/N] rolls her eyes before crossing it out and writing Camera Film Development History. Akaashi pulls out another piece of paper and titles it with the volleyball one. To which [Y/N] wrinkles her nose, before crossing it out and putting her idea down on the paper.

“Stop it.” Akaashi grumbles.

“Never.” [Y/N] writes her idea down and rushes up to the teacher. Akaashi shoots up and grabs her by the hand, pulling her into his chest.

Akaashi promised he would never use the trick Bokuto taught him, but considering the dire situation he was in, he decided that he had no choice. Leaning his head close to hers, [Y/N]’s eyes widened as she moved her head. “Let’s use my idea, Princess.”

[Y/N] fake a gag before slipping out of his grasp. “Ew, no. Never do that again.” When she tries to go to the teacher again, Akaashi groans before pulling her away again. “Let go of me!” She states, trying not to raise her voice.

“Never.” Akaashi mimics her tone from earlier. And [Y/N] turns her face into an image of disgust.

“I said to let go of me!” [Y/N] kicks Akaashi’s shin, making him yelp out in pain. The teacher, having been aware of their argument from the beginning, just sighs and sends them off to the principal’s office.

Akaashi isn’t angry, he’s just upset. But because of a wild and reckless first year, he is the one being punished. Even though [Y/N] is also going to the office, he feels like he’s the one being criticized. He wants to protest and say that she was the one who kicked him, and she was the one who refused to do a compromise with him.

[Y/N] bites down on her tongue as she sits outside the Principal’s office. It's only the second Monday of the year and she is already in trouble, so much for making a good impression on others.

Regardless, through the months that pass, Akaashi and [Y/N] still argue. They don’t physically fight; they just bicker incessantly. The seats in front of them and behind them were vacated once the students had realized their fighting wasn’t going to stop.

[Y/N] tried her best to fit in. But when she was informed that there wasn’t going to be a Photography club, she felt deflated. But when a pair of girls stood around the entrance of the school trying to hand out fliers, [Y/N] too the opportunity to say hi.

The girls, that [Y/N] was now informed of as Yukie and Kaori, asked her if she would be willing to be a manager for the volleyball team which [Y/N] happened to be familiar with, so she agreed. The two girls invited [Y/N] to start training as a manager during a training camp, to which [Y/N] happily agreed to as well.

The training camp had started off well enough. All the third years had started off introducing themselves and had politely begun to ask about [Y/N] and her likes as well as her dislikes. Akaashi spotted her before she spotted him. He groaned and pulled Bokuto aside. “You have got to be messing with me, right?” Akaashi ran a hand through his hair before toying with his hands.

“What do you mean Akaashi?” Bokuto folded his arms while he tilted his head to the side.

“She’s insufferable.” Akaashi stated, crossing his arms over his chest.

“I dunno, [L/n]-kun seems really nice.” Bokuto tapped his chin while shrugging.

“I had to go to the principal's office because of her, remember.” Akaashi leaves out the finer details of the reason why he went to the office though, figuring that Bokuto didn’t need to know all of the information.

Bokuto walks back towards [Y/N] before calling out Akaashi, “She might be different outside of school, you never know ‘Kaashi.”

Akaashi leans his back against the brick wall. Exhaling deeply and closing his eyes. He doesn’t even notice when [Y/N] walks up to him and inspects his jersey. When she taps his shoulder, Akaashi flinched a bit before sighing deeply to calm his nerves. He tries to walk away and [Y/N] immediately grabbed hold of his hand.

“I'm sorry it feels like I'm invading on your life. But the third years are all really nice to me.” [Y/N] holds her hands behind her back as she digs the tip of her shoe into the ground. “And I was wondering if we could actually have a civil conversation about our project. I'm willing to compromise now, if you are.” She looks at him with puppy dog eyes.

How can Akaashi have it in his heart to deny her? When her tone got ever so soft when she talked about the third years being kind to her? Akaashi doesn’t like the way his heart bubbles up at her actions.

“[Y/N]?”

Tsukishima drops his duffel bag, his arms going limp at the sight of her with a second year from Fukurodani and wearing its uniform. And he didn’t like the sight of her smiling since the last memories of her he had were of her with wet eyes and rage. Tsukishima rushes to pick up his bag. Yamaguchi, who had seen the whole scene unfurl, ran after Tsukishima.

Once Tsukishima had stopped, now hiding in the bus, Yamaguchi had finally caught up with his friend. Yamaguchi grew tired of the way he could dance around the topic of [Y/N]. She was their friend, the three of them grew up together. “Tsukishima. What are your feelings for [Y/N]? Tell me the truth.” Yamaguchi crossed his arms and Tsukishima looked up at him with a blank stare, his mouth opening and closing like a fish.

[Y/N] only saw Tsukishima for a moment before he rushed away. She looked back to Akaashi, whose face was slightly red but he still had a blank look plastered on. She had a choice to make. Go after her broken friendship with a childhood friend, or stay with the new and intriguing project partner.

Either way, she knew that there would be trouble ahead.

Routes: Wit’s End || Partner in Crime

[knamjooned]

Magicae Foresta (4)

pairing: (forest)dragon!namjoon x (unpracticed)witch!reader

genre: magic/supernatural au, shifter au, fluff, angst, smut, soulmate au

chapter words: 2,889

chapter warnings: none

chapter rating: G

STORY SUMMARY: The magical world your grandmother told you about had always been real to you. Once she passed away, you find yourself honoring her memory by searching for the one magical creature she could never find.

CHAPTER SUMMARY: Your curiosity may be a bit too much, Namjoon has a small panic attack about mates, you get to ride on a unicorn, and Yoongi is about to become a dad.

FOUR

The evening was filled with meeting members of the pack, asking and answering questions about the lives of humans and wolves alike, and sharing delicious smoked rabbit, of course of the non-shifter variety. Tulok had taken a couple of the older children out to scavenge some vegetation for you to add into your meal. You cooked them yourself as you listened to one of the older members tell a story about your grandmother playing soccer a handful of years ago.

In the late evening, as the sun was only an hour away from starting to disappear, Seokjin excused himself and you and asked you to follow him into his own private home. Tulok stayed, but when Seokjin reached out and took his hand, the man followed his mate without hesitation. When you were settled on a floor, with a thick blanket under you, Seokjin and Tulok did the same, forming a triangle.

“I’m sorry for you loss, _____.” Seokjin watched your face as your head fell slightly, eyes on the ground for a long moment. You took a deep breath and pushed any tears back, opting for a smile. 

“Thank you. I will do my best to honor her. Which is why I want to find the forest dragon. Namjoon, I think, was his name?”

“That it is,” Seokjin chuckled. “You were mentioned at the meeting of our kind’s leaders. Hoseok spoke highly of you, as did Jimin and Jungkook. It seems you have met all but three of the group.”

“There are seven of you?” You perked up, eyes wide. Reaching into the pack at your side, you brought out a journal and opened it to the next blank page. Tulok laughed softly as you searched desperately for a pen. As soon as you found it in the bottom of your back, you turned back to the couple. Seokjin and Tulok were looking at you, highly amused with eyes shining. “I just want to make sure I get information I can use.”

“Understandable,” Seokjin replied. He eyed the few words on the page you had opened. “I see you have information on the ones I’ve mentioned. Is there anything you’d like to know about me?”

You stared at him for a long moment, thinking back over the entries your grandmother had written. Your gaze slid to Tulok, who blinked back in surprise, apparently not expecting you to turn your attention to him. 

“I make a living on researching mythology and folklore of the region. I’ve heard many stories, but know there are more out there. Is there a story you can share with me, one that I can keep and hand down to my own descendants?” You smiled at Tulok, who’s cheeks turned pink. “Don’t feel pressured, you don’t have to, really. I just wanted to put that out there.”

“When we know of a worthy story, from beginning to end, I will be sure to let you know,” Seokjin interjected. It made you turn your attention to him, which seemed to be what he wanted the hard look he was giving you. You swallowed, realizing you may have crossed a line.

“I overstepped,” you murmured, closing your book and putting it into the pack. 

“No,” Tulok assured you. Seokjin raised an eyebrow at his mate. “She didn’t, Seokjin, really. I was just caught off guard. But he is right, ______. I… do not have a story I am ready to share at the moment. But I hope to share one in the future.”

“When you’re ready, love,” Seokjin murmured, reaching out and squeezing Tulok’s hand. The alpha’s eyes turned to you. “I apologize for…. sounding angry. I’m not.”

“I understand,” you replied. “You have your mate’s and your pack’s best interest at heart. It’s part of being the alpha of the pack.”

“Exactly. Now, I can tell you a little about Yoongi, our panther shifter who you probably won’t ever get the chance to meet.”

Namjoon spent a good amount of time asking questions about this link he felt to his mate, which had turned out to be the Magic Mother’s successor. You. He had mixed feelings about the idea of a mate. He’d been on his own for virtually all his life, had gotten used to having his space, doing things the way he liked them.

If he decided to move forward with this connection, would that change? Would your purpose, your focus change, as well? What if he didn’t go forward with this? Would his own life be changed because he went against the Great One, or would it stay the same? Where there repercussions only for him, or was it both of you? Or did it also affect the rest of the forest and the creatures that lived there?

Taehyung had to press a hand to Namjoon’s mouth to stop him from asking anymore questions. The dragon was speaking so fast even the mystical unicorn couldn’t keep up. Namjoon felt Taehyung using calming magic to help him focus and let go of the anxiety plaguing his mind. Taehyung took his face in his large hands, studying Namjoon’s eyes seriously.

“You good? Need more calming magic?”

“I’m fine. Thanks…sorry,” Namjoon apologized as Taehyung dropped his hands and sat back on his throne. He took a deep breath, closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them. “What can I expect from now on?”

“Depends, are you going to sweep _____ off her feet right away? Are you going to spend time courting her and let her decide if she wants this? Are you going to just ignore every sign out there and be the hermit we all know and love?”

“Okay, I’ll be more specific. Let’s say I ignore this and keep doing what I’ve always done. What would happen?”

“Just that,” Taehyung shrugged dismissively. “The only difference is you might feel less whole. There will probably always be a part of you wanting to be with your mate. The whole overwhelming emotions and such will dissipate over time.”

“I see. Hoseok says she wants me to teach her magic. What if I agree to being her teacher, but nothing more?” Taehyung grimaced.

“That would be much harder to move on, but still doable. It will take longer for the emotions associated with your mate to disappear if you’re around her often.”

“What if I accept this, but get rejected by her?”

“As soon as she recognizes the connection to you, Namjoon, she’ll experience the same wild thoughts and feelings as you. I would say whatever you might experience without her, ____ will experience the same thing.”

“I see,” Namjoon repeated, staring at nothing in particular as he thought deeply. Taehyung tilted his head, watching silently. After a moment, his features softened.

“Joon,” he said softly, his tone turning from mystical adviser to close friend. Namjoon’s gaze caught Taehyung’s eyes. “I understand you’re unsure about something new, something different. Trust me, I understand what you feel after being alone for so long.”

“I know,” Namjoon murmured. “You’ve been the only one of your kind for centuries more than me.”

“Then trust me when I saw this successor, _______, is exactly what you need. Take a chance, don’t let this slip away without even testing the waters, so to speak.”

As Namjoon flew toward his cabin in the woods, he contemplated everything Taehyung had said. He was beginning to realize he wanted to meet you, wanted to see who you were and what you were all about. He could do that, at the very least. Namjoon also thought about the last things Taehyung had said to him. Everyone knew most of Taehyung’s history, going back at least 800 years. The way he had just spoken, though, made Namjoon think Taehyung had experience with a mate. A mate that had slipped away, maybe.

I wonder where Taehyung is. The one and only time I interacted with the unicorn was when I was in my thirties, decades ago. He’s as elusive as the panther, Yoongi, and almost as cautious as the dragon. His appearance may be young, flamboyant, and flirtatious, but I can see the wisdom that comes with age in his eyes.

You spent the night with the Moongrove Pack, pitching your tent near Seokjin and Tulok’s home. Since these shifters were nocturnal, you stayed awake as long as possible. You fall asleep for a few hours before sunrise, with Seokjin carrying you into your tent. When you opened your eyes, the sun was up and there was a quiet calm to the community. You took care of your morning rituals then started to disassemble your makeshift shelter. As you put your things back in your pack meticulously, you see a shadow approaching you. 

Turning, you see a beautiful man, with blue hair and a frilly shirt. A confident smile adorned his face. Raising your brow, you glanced toward the alpha’s tent. As if he could read your mind, Seokjin appeared, coming out quickly, eyes darting around. When his gaze landed on the stranger, his tense figure quickly relaxed.

“Taehyung, you know better than to come unannounced.” Seokjin stepped forward, though, placing a hand on Taehyung’s shoulder. The other grinned and put a hand on top of Seokjin’s, patting it playfully. 

“I apologize, but I figured you’d quickly know it was me.”

“A unicorn has a distinct smell.” As your eyes widened in surprise, Taehyung grimaced, pushing Seokjin’s hand away.

“I’m a mythical creature, I don’t smell.”

“Of course you do, sweet flora and rain.”

“Of course,” Taehyung replied with a smirk. He turned back to you, who had been staring this whole time. “Ah, it’s the successor. It’s good to finally meet you.” He bowed dramatically, throwing his arm out gracefully, then stood straight once more.

“Did you say… unicorn?” When Seokjin and Taehyung nodded at the same time, you sucked in a breath, desperately trying to hold back overwhelming excitement. The unicorn shifter grinned and winked at Seokjin.

“It seems your time with our pack is over. I enjoyed your company, as did all of my family. Safe travels, and we shall see each other again soon.” You both bowed your heads respectfully, and Seokjin went back into his tent to his mate. Taehyung held out a hand toward you.

“Come. Although I’m not as experienced in forest magic like Namjoon, I’m sure I can teach a few simple tricks.”

You put the strap of your pack on your shoulders and took Taehyung’s hand. He held it comfortably as you walked side by side through the trees, a pathway almost hidden guiding you.

“Most of my magic has to do with clairvoyance, empathy, and some flora manipulation. I do not sense any kind of psychic talent in you, so that will be of no help, unfortunately.” 

“Can I see your true form?” You stopped abruptly, unable to hold in the request any longer. You let go of his hand and gripped your pack straps. Taehyung blinked at the sudden question, then laughed.

“Of course! You don’t need to hold back your curiosity with me, my friend. I know who and what you are. Would you like a ride back to my part of the forest?”

“Are.. are you kidding? Can I really ... ride on the back of a unicorn?”

“The stars in your eyes tells me this has been a dream of yours since you were a child, am I right?” You nodded hesitantly, slightly embarrassed. “I am at your service. You are technically the guardian of the forest now.”

As you mulled over those last words, Taehyung shimmer and shifted into a magnificent horse-like creature with a horn and fur the color of a shiny pearl and a blue mane. You recognized the unicorn immediately.

“You were following me the other day!” The unicorn seemed to smirk and flipped it’s mane. He moved closer, allowing you easier access to pull yourself up. You lifted a hand, your palm hovering over the almost sparkling fur of the most magical creature you had ever known. Taehyung shifted enough to bump your palm with his side, snapping you out of your awe. “Okay, okay, up we go.”

Next thing you knew, you were riding on a unicorn who trotted happily through the trees as you held onto his mane. You made a mental note to write everything about this down in your journal. The journey lasted until the sun was past its highest point in the sky. A wooden table surrounded by four chairs fashioned from magic and flowers was in the middle, with the opening of a cave a few feet away. The mouth of the cave was decorated with vines covered in colorful and sweet smelling flowers.

“This is beautiful,” you complimented as you slid off Taehyung’s back. You stepped forward and placed your hand on the table, tracing the cracks and lines. You heard shuffling behind you, but didn’t look back. You assumed Taehyung had changed back and was getting himself presentable.

“Namjoon made the table for me. I made the chairs,” he said proudly as he came to stand beside you. He put a hand on your shoulder. “Now, let’s talk magic. Have you ever used tarot cards?”

“Not really. I have researched them,” you added, although you understood it wasn’t the same. “Is this part of your magic?”

“Sometimes. Depends on what I’m looking for, and if the Great One allows me insight. Would you like to learn? It’s one of the basic skills of a witch.”

“Absolutely!” You followed him into the cave he called home. Inside was like any other dwelling, with a bedroom area, a kitchen area with built in appliances, and a doorway into a fully working bathroom. Taehyung shrugged, waving a hand toward the entrance. A shadow covered it, almost like a door being shut.

“A little rustic, a little modern, just how I like it.”

As you dived into the beginning of reading tarot cards while sitting on smooth, rug covered floor, the sun fell low in the sky and started to disappear. Taehyung was listing different types of cards and where they were from when there was a tinkling of bells. Taehyung frowned and looked toward the opening.

“I’m not expecting anyone at the moment.” He stood and waved his hand, moving the shadow door from the entrance. You leaned a little to look around Taehyung’s body, and saw it was Jimin, the mouse shifter you had met a few days ago. “Jimin! What a surprise, even though I didn’t plan on seeing today!”

“Are you busy? I just… need some advice…” 

‘Come. ______ is here, as well.” Taehyung led Jimin deeper into the cave. Jimin smiled brightly and waved a greeting. You did the same, then patting the space beside you. 

“Sit here, Taehyung was giving me a lesson on tarot reading, but I need a break from all the historic information. What’s on your mind?”

“It might be helpful you being here,” Jimin replied thoughtfully as he made himself comfortable. “I… er, I found my mate.”

“Mate?” you asked, glancing at Taehyung.

“Mate, a creature the Great One knows will be the perfect match for you, with all your flaws and strengths,” Jimin explained. He sighed and gazed off into the distance, a soft smile on his face. “She’s lovely, smart and beautiful, but much more bold than me.” His face fell. “I don’t know how to get her attention.”

“Interesting,” you murmured, reaching for you bag. You pulled out your trusty notebook and pen, opened it, and began to jot down information about the idea of a ‘mate’. Jimin and Taehyung watched silently for a long moment, then started to giggle. You looked up, oblivious. “What?”

“It’s cute,” Taehyung answered. “You really are a curious soul. I enjoy it.”

“Is there any information about how to make your mate fall in love with you?” Jimin teased, leaning over your shoulder. 

“No, but after this there will be. Now, what do we know about this lovely mate of yours?”

Yoongi sat beside his mate, Sarah, who was in her natural form of the panther. She had her head in his lap, and he stroked her fur, murmuring assurances and support as she breathed through the pain of giving birth. When he moved his hand up to her ears, Sarah turned and gave his arm a tiny lick of comfort.

“Jungkook, go get Taehyung and Namjoon, their magic may help, in some way,” he ordered, glancing at the young man. Jungkook stood with his wife, Minji, both looking worriedly at Sarah. Yoongi sent a crooked smile, not as confident as his voice. “She’ll be fine, don’t worry.”

“I’m sure it’s just the natural pain that comes with giving life,” Minji murmured to Jungkook, squeezing his hand. 

“Of course. I’ll go get Taehyung and Namjoon, bring them here. Shall I get the other members of the circle?”

“No, just the ones who may be of use with their magic.” Yoongi hesitated, running a hand over his mate’s fur, then continued. “I’m glad you two came to visit when you did.”

It was a rare occasion that Yoongi admitted to be happy about an unannounced visit. Minji insisted on staying, ordering Jungkook to go without her. Yoongi chuckled, and even Sarah showed a tired feline smile. 

[megalony]

Another guy’s girl- Part 1

This is a new idea I had which I’m hoping to turn into a series which is mainly a Ben and Joe love triangle fic.

Taglist: @lunaticspoem @butlegendsneverdie @langdonzvoid @jennyggggrrr @rogmeddows @radiob-l-a-hblah @rogertaylorsbitontheside @chlobo6 @rogertaylors-lipgloss @sj-thefan @omgitsearly @luckytrashgooprebel @scarsout @deaky-with-a-c @killer-queen-ofrhye @bluutac @vousmemanqueez @jonesyaddiction

Summary: Joe and (Y/n) have a daughter together and though they are separated Joe hopes they are going to get back together. That becomes harder when Ben comes on the scene and falls for (Y/n).

Series masterlist

Ben Hardy masterlist

Enjoy.

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Ben rested his head against his right hand that was propped against the car door. His index finger on his left hand kept tapping out a steady beat against the steering wheel as he couldn't wait to get home. A song was blurring on in the background playing from one of the calming CDs that he put on when he was on an evening drive. He couldn't listen to loud rock music during the night, it messed with his head so he had a few calm and easy listening CDs for the drive home.

He enjoyed driving, it was something that always calmed him down but when he'd had a long day of shooting and then having an hour drive back home it did take its toll.

The good thing about it was that the night sky wasn't pitch black yet. The moon was a dusty, pale yellow with an outer white glow that looked very luminescent and eye-catching. There were a few stars poking through the layer of mist and the sky was a pale navy blue with streaks of purple and tints of red. Ben loved looking at the evening sky because it looked so capturing and interesting.

He used to hate driving on the motorway, it always panicked him because everyone was driving so fast but now it felt normal. It didn't feel like he was getting whiplash when he increased speed, it felt rather slow really now that he had gotten used to it.

Drifting his eyes around the road, Ben rubbed at his temple as he noticed his sliproad was coming up to get him back on the normal roads and not on the motorway anymore. He wasn't too far from home now which was a relief because he couldn't wait to put his feet up and just have a drink. He had tomorrow off work which meant that he didn't have to get up at an ungodly hour in the morning and take the hour drive down to set.

Letting his eyes wander around the road again as he switched lanes, a frown pulled at Ben's lips as he saw two cars up ahead on the left that had their hazard lights on. He slowed down just a little as he noticed that no one else was stopping to help but the two cars seemed to have collided. He didn't know if someone had called the police or an ambulance or if the drivers needed any help.

Ben wanted to go home but he couldn't dare drive past the crash and go home if these people needed help. He bypassed the two cars and pulled into the parking lane a few metres ahead. He got out and locked the car, stuffing the keys into his pocket before he started jogging along the grass to get back to the cars. It looked like the car in front had a burst tyre and the one behind hit it in the panic.

Looking into the window of the first car Ben saw it was a man of around thirty or over, he looked shaken and Ben could only presume the injuries he had but he was on the phone, seemingly calling for help. Ben didn't bother to knock on the window and ask if he needed help because he seemed to be handling himself at the moment.

Shifting his attention to the dark cherry red car behind, Ben headed over and rounded to the driver's side. It took him a few moments to jiggle the door handle so the door finally opened, almost swinging off the hinges when it swung open with a creak.

Turning her head slowly to the right, (Y/n) let out a shuddering breath at the stranger who managed to open the door. She had been sat for around five minutes, possibly longer since she blacked out before the car stopped swerving on the road. A sob burned against the back of her throat that felt like sandpaper as pain bolted through almost every nerve in her body. The blond who had seemingly come to her rescue bent down on his knees, a calming smile on his face but it wasn't helping with her panic.

"Hi there, love. I'm Ben, can you tell me your name?" Ben paced his words to let (Y/n) have a moment to process them and hear how calm and collected he was being.

"(Y/n)... c-can you get me out please?"

(Y/n) didn't know which area of pain to focus on or where exactly the pain was coming from because it was circulating everywhere. But she knew that she didn't want to be in the car anymore. She could feel the smoke drifting around the car seeping into her lungs and making it harder to breathe. She could feel that the right side of the car next to her legs was dented and the bonnet had been crushed and the metal was pushing towards her. She felt like she was becoming boxed into her car.

The seatbelt was cutting rather harshly into her exposed neck and chest near her collar bone and it was grating like a sharp knife slowly tearing through her skin. She wanted to be out of the car to feel a bit more at ease and safer. Sitting in a car wasn't the best if it was stationary and it was still on the road, especially the motorway which was dangerous as it was without her being in a car which was now a hazard.

"I don't think that's a good idea, love. I don't know what injuries you have, it's best to wait for the paramedics, I think the guy in the other car was calling them."

Ben could see she was obviously distressed and didn't want to stay where she was but he didn't want to move her. If she had damaged her spine or her neck or even her head, moving her could disrupt that. If she had any nerve damage he could make it worse or any paralysis. He wasn't qualified in first aid or any medical training so he didn't want to move her and be responsible for her becoming worse.

"Let's get that belt off you." Pushing himself up so he was leaning over instead of on his knees at her side, Ben tried his best not to touch her in case he hurt her. Unsure what injuries she had except for the obvious cuts to her face from the inside of her windscreen shattering and sending shards of glass everywhere. The belt came undone surprisingly easy and Ben slowly pulled it back, seeing how it peeled from her skin revealing a slanted cut along her collar bone that thankfully wasn't deep.

Pulling back a little, Ben started looking over (Y/n) to see what injuries she had and how bad they were. He saw small cuts on her cheeks, one on her neck, her hands looked a bit scraped but when he looked closer he saw her right wrist looked damaged.

"I think you've broken your wrist, love. Try not to move it for me." The complicated joint seemed to jut out on the left and it was beginning to swell too. Pushing the almost deflated airbag out of the way, Ben looked over (Y/n)'s other arm which seemed to have no damage. He locked eyes with her for a brief moment, a smile on his lips to show she was okay and he wasn't going anywhere. He didn't see any blood on her shirt which was a good sign but with the airbag now moved out of the way he saw a thin chunk of metal puncturing into her thigh causing blood to pool around her navy blue leggings.

"Can I?" He questioned, referring to her leg as he didn't really want to leave her bleeding out when he didn't know how long the paramedics were going to take to arrive.

There was a tear in the material so Ben slowly pulled at the material and ripped it further so he could see the damage. He held his breath in his lungs to calm himself down as the metal looked like it was rather deep into her leg and Ben knew better than to even attempt to pull it out. If he moved the metal an inch he could worsen the bleeding or rip a muscle and if he took it out all the way the blood flow would be a lot worse. The blood was seeping from the deep cut like a tap that was continuously spluttering the liquid everywhere. It was soaking into her leggings and creating a mass dampness around the wounded area.

"Okay, love, I need to stop the bleeding. Can you talk to me? Tell me what you were up to today or something about you while I fix this."

Ben needed to stop the bleeding and the best way he could think to do that was to remove his belt and tie it around her leg above the wound. That way the blood would be restricted to her leg because even though the metal was stopping the blood loss from becoming worse it was still pouring out. He knew (Y/n) might become lightheaded and it would hurt so he thought talking might distract her and it would show him she wasn't suddenly going to faint or fall unconscious.

"Why-" (Y/n) cut herself off with a choked moan mixed with a cry when she saw the metal poking out of her thigh a little higher up from her knee. She pressed her head back into the headrest as she felt the urge to scream or try and move because she didn't even realise that had happened. She didn't feel the metal puncture through her leg she simply thought it had gotten bashed and bruised like everywhere else on her body.

"Ssh, it's alright. I'm going to stop the bleeding and then the paramedics will sort this out for you, don't worry. Come on, tell me about yourself or your day." Ben's voice was oddly soothing to (Y/n), he had one of those deep yet rhythmic voices that you could listen to about anything. It was a voice that you would constantly listen to without registering what was being said.

"I... I was dropping my girl off at h-her dads." (Y/n) licked her dry lips, trying to speak clearly though her throat and lips were both dry and felt tight.

The end of Ben's belt snapped free from the loops of his jeans as he held it tightly before crouching back down beside (Y/n). Seeing that someone else had pulled up to help the man in the car in front who must have called an ambulance but even if he didn't Ben guessed the next people would.

"How old is she?" Ben questioned as he very carefully lifted (Y/n)'s thigh just an inch up so he could thread the end of the belt underneath her leg. Trying his hardest not to disturb the metal as he passed the belt under her leg. He eased her leg back down onto the chair before he pulled the belt a little more, making sure it was close to the wound but not directly touching it.

"Four." (Y/n) responded, slowly opening her eyes to see what Ben was doing. Her mind taking a few seconds longer than usual to realise he was going to try and stem the bleeding by cutting off her circulation. When Ben lifted his head to look at her, he winked, the smile still on his lips before he threaded the end of the belt through the buckle. Suddenly pulling it as tight as he could manage. Seeing the belt indent in the skin which caused (Y/n) to cry out as if the belt was around her chest and not her leg.

"It won't hurt for long, love. Come on, tell me about your girl." Ben pressed the pin into the belt to create a new pinhole to make sure the belt didn't loosen any more than that before letting to. Her leg would turn numb soon enough and it would stop both the pain from the tightness and the pain from the wound.

"S-she's called Maddie, redhead, quiet b-but cheeky..." Ben watched the small smile pull at (Y/n)'s lips when she thought about the little girl she had seen only a few hours ago.

Ben ran his hands over (Y/n)'s legs to make sure she had no other cuts or injuries, stopping when she choked on a cry as soon as his hands found her left ankle. He pulled up the end of her leggings and moved her sock out of the way before trying to be gently when grazing his fingertips over the swelling skin. Relieved to feel that the bone wasn't broken or pushing out against the skin, it felt perfectly intact meaning it was either sprained or it was the muscle that was the problem.

"It's not broken, probably sprained... hey, you gotta stay with me, love. Come on, open your eyes." Reaching his hand up, Ben gently brushed his thumb over her cheekbone, trying to get her to talk to him when her eyes closed. He didn't want her passing out on him in case it was a sign that she was still having bloodloss or that there was something else wrong.

(Y/n) tried to open her eyes but her eyelids seemed to be made of gold, they were simply too heavy to lift. She managed to move her left hand, barely remembering that Ben said not to move her right wrist which was broken.

"It hurts." (Y/n) didn't exactly know what she was referring to, whether it was her broken wrist, her bleeding leg, her damaged ankle or her head that was pounding but she felt the need to express how everything hurt. Ben didn't seem to care what she was referring to, he simply understood what she was going through. He moved his right hand and gently took her left hand in his own, interlocking their fingers.

"I know it does, but it won't be for long. Squeeze my hand, help will be here soon."

Ben couldn't give her anything for the pain and he couldn't take it away, all he could do was be some moral support and to try and help her in any way that he could. He darted his eyes down to her leg which was fading in colour meaning that the blood was not getting past the belt so that was a good thing at least.

He felt slight relief when (Y/n) held his hand tightly to show she wasn't asleep just yet. She didn't know what she would have done if Ben hadn't turned up, she wouldn't have known her leg was bleeding or how to stop it, she would have tried to get herself out if she had the energy but she didn't even have any energy now. Her panic died down immensely when he turned up because he seemed to know what he was doing. It wasn't as scary with someone else here with her.

"P-please don't leave."

"Now why would I leave you?" Ben could hear the worry in her voice as she thought he was just going to vanish and head home. He would do that even if he wanted to because it wasn't fair. He had stopped to help and he wasn't finished helping yet because he couldn't leave her alone and afraid.

Ben rubbed his thumb over the back of her hand as (Y/n) continued to squeeze his hand every now and then to show she was still awake. She pushed her chest out to let her spine click into place before settling back against the chair that was feeling incredibly uncomfy right now. (Y/n) felt her mind slipping and her thoughts wandering for a few seconds before Ben's hand suddenly but gently shook her own to bring her back around.

"Cavalry's here, love." As soon as the words passed through his lips (Y/n) could faintly hear the blaring sirens that sounded very distant but she didn't know if they were actually far away or if it was her ears distorting the sounds around her.

Two ambulances and a road traffic car pulled up as Ben suspected they were going to corner this lane off and soon enough stop people coming onto this particular motorway for the night. Two paramedics shuffled by with a stretcher to get to the car in front before the next two came over to where Ben was crouched down beside (Y/n). He could see she was close to falling asleep now but it was alright if she did because the paramedics were here, they would know what to do.

Ben let go of her hand as he stood to his feet, shuffling back so he was leaning against the door. Not wanting to go just yet but he knew he had to be out of the way. He didn't want to head back to his car until he knew she would be alright and was taken care of. He didn't know (Y/n) at all but he still felt like he was somehow responsible for helping her.

"Ben..." (Y/n) managed to open her eyes but soon closed them when all she could see was a rotating picture that was blurring too much to make anything or anyone out. She didn't want him to leave, she wanted to hold his hand, to hear his rather melodic voice telling her she was going to be fine.

"I'm still here." He responded, feeling his heart pang at how she was beginning to panic again. He shook his head when one of the paramedics asked if he was injured, his arms folding over his chest as he bit his lip, watching them assess her and talk about the best way to move her. They couldn't afford to move the metal in her leg but it was easier that the car door was opened and that she wasn't crushed in or in an awkward position. They didn't have to cut her free which was the most important thing.

Ben felt all the sirens and car horns and voices drift away and blur into silence as he watched the paramedics very slowly ease (Y/n) from the seat into their arms. Both making sure her right leg was moved as little as possible as they laid her down onto the stretcher. All three of them wincing when (Y/n) suddenly made a choking sound. Her chest moving like it was convulsing as she moved her left hand to press to her lower chest before blood started to coat her lips.

The paramedics moved the stretcher so (Y/n) was sitting up instead of lying down so she didn't choke. Watching as her eyes looked distant before they closed even though she was still awake. Her eyes were tightly shut as her face contorted into a look of pain or disgust as she tipped her head forward to spit the blood from her lips.

"Can I go with her?"

Ben didn't even think before the words were rushed from his lips earning a nod from one of the paramedics as they both hurried to wheel (Y/n) back to the ambulance. Ben didn't even know her and yet he found himself wondering what her fate would be. If she would need surgery and what for, if she would be okay, who needed to be contacted. If her parents needed to be told, the father of her daughter, what her daughter would be told. All the questions he could possibly have about her and her life rushed through his head as he jogged to keep up with them.

Stopping to tell an officer which one was his car because he would undoubtedly get clamped or some ticket for leaving his car in the parking zone overnight but he didn't care. He was too shaken to drive and he needed to make sure (Y/n) would be okay.

When they were in the ambulance, one of the paramedics held a white plastic tub in front of her so she could cough up the blood which tainted the crystal white colour of the tub into a rather dark crimson. Ben wasn't very well advanced with medical knowledge but he guessed by the way she was spitting blood like she was throwing up that it was something to do with her stomach. She was breathing well so it wasn't her lungs at least.

"I'm still here, love." He mumbled quietly as he reached to take her hand, watching how her features seemed to relax at his voice. Her hand pulling his closer to her chest as she continued to throw up the sticky substance coating her throat and lips.

Ben brushed her slightly knotted hair behind her ear, keeping it from her face as he felt the ambulance beginning to move.

"I won't leave you."

[plcyersandpieces]

SPOILERS--gen:LOCK Panel RTX 2019

I know I'm not a gen:LOCK blog but I'm gonna do this too because I'm here.

New merch: Shirts, enamel pins, key chains, hoodies, posters, etc.

Atsuko has stuff too

DC comics deal for gen:LOCK too, more at the DC x RT panel

Number one feedback was wanting to see more of the world, and the comic will explore.

"I really wanna see a holon surf!!"

Viz artbook and manga adaptation, more info to come in the future

gen:LOCK is coming to Adult Swim on August 3rd(!!!!!)

Blu-ray and DVD soon, including unreleased scenes, mostly cut for time

We're shown a few from ep. 6 during the invasion of the Anvil (which they called IOTA). Will not spoil, but it included a cute moment. 💚

Emmy nomination has been submitted, so they're showing the package that was submitted.

Asking the crew how they got involved!

Miles: Gray was the driving force, but there were a lot of hands that touched the script. I was working on so many things and I really wanted to work on it, but all I could really say was "Cool man! Keep it up!"

Chad and Blaine went through an internal audition process. Chad didn't end up getting told until like after everyone else. "'Oh yeah, your character is in a love triangle with Michael B. Jordan and Dakota Fanning.' WHAT???"

Blaine talking about how they were gonna kill his character and bring him back

Back to Miles, Gray approached him for Migues. "Representation really matters in voice acting." Ended up channeling how he speaks among family from San Antonio.

Monica: Auditioned for the trailer first. "I always like to use my 'grown up voice." Didn't think she'd get it because of the lead talent. She screamed so loud in front of Hodor when she got the email. Jamie Marchi heard her across the room. XD

Sung Won read for Chase, Weller, and NoN characters first. "I guess if I'm gonna lose to somebody, it may as well be David Tennant." Got to audition for his part later on. Recorded remotely from LA.

Evan: Tries to work mostly with themes and character psychologies. Loves how upbeat Chase is. Lots of cultural diversity but not preachy, was really happy to work with that. Excited to see where it goes next. What matters most is how we treat each other, and as story progresses, we'll be able to explore that more.

Important that we have correct representation. Considered the VA for Orphan Black for Val, but was turned down because she said RT needed to pull from the actual LGBTQ+ community.

Moving on!

Early development art, first from @dishwasherultimate1910

Mix of realism and stylized, female-presenting are more stylized, starting with Cammie

Chase started out almost like RWBY, even used the RWBY base

Got tips from WB Japan to make Kazu more appealing to the Japanese audience

Migues designed after Alex Jaurez in RT

Miles paused the panel to ask Chad and Blaine about how Sinclaire became a meme internally.

There was a gen:LOCK meme channel.

Pitch book was shown, Burnie wants all future pitches like that. Miles: "...shit."

Q&A!

gen:LOCK season 2 is still in consideration, so more info forthcoming. Focusing on making sure team quality of life is better, etc. (Translation: addressing crunch)

"If VAs could swap roles, which and why?"

Miles: Nugget.

Chad: Dr. Weller

Blaine: Same. (Miles: OH YEAH?? LET'S HEAR IT. (We didn't.))

Sung: Weller

Monica: I'd go for Cammie, but I can't do the accent, so probably Valentina

"Favorite scene from season 1?"

Evan: First scene, at dinner with his family. Revealing some of it was telepresence, Chase's background, why he continues to be well-adjusted.

Sung: Val and Kazu's dance, the team up at the end. Rewarding on a character level and satisfying animation wise.

Blaine: The final holon reveals.

Miles: Cammie getting her head ripped off, shattering the hope that was building up til then. And people wonder why I'm a monster! "Yeah you're in a giant robot, but that doesn't make you invincible."

First fight after revealed holons

Chad: Every one that Jodie didn't die. jk, the jet scene through the city.

The scene where Dr. Weller said good bye

Monica: Any scene with David Tennant! Also the training scenes, and Dr. Weller's speech.

"If you could make a holon, what would you make?"

Blaine: Black and gold paint, close quarters combat with a shotgun, stealth

Sung: Big mustache that's a boomerang, suspenders and boxing gloves

Monica: Giant pink fluffy teddy bear, one arm shoots candy, the other gasoline and fire. Miles: "That's the fucking scariest thing I've ever heard."

Miles: Giant Monster from Stranger Things

Chad: Skater bot

"What is it like to see these characters brought to life?"

Evan: Really excited, even where it comes close to plots you've seen before, we made it unique.

Miles: I was really floored. I never thought we'd be able to make something that looks like that. It hit me harder because I was so removed from it.

Monica: The first time I came to RT to work with Gray, and to see her move and hear my voice was "OMG!" I've never been on that side before, aside from Sienna!"

Blaine: I was really hyped up on cyberpunk, no way we could do that! It looks so good!

Chad: Soul patch? Really??? He's gonna be a dick. But really, the fact that he tried to have a conversation meant that at least he's trying.

Sung: Very very weird, but it was great! It felt like I was walking around. The cast is so diverse and colorful, representation really does matter and you did a great job.

[duhragonball]

Dragon Ball Z 110

Piccolo’s awesome.  He shows up in the Garlic Junior Saga, and he just throws a thousand gallons of shade all over him.     “Garlic Junior, huh?   I seem to recall a shit-tier movie villain by that name.    But it coudn’t be the same guy as your boss, Spice.    No, the Garlic Junior I’m thinking of was a total loser who got beaten by a toddler.” 

Maron starts freaking out.   The talking pig wasn’t so bad but then Chi-Chi tried to fight her, then all of Krillin’s friends went bonkers, and now the demons in slutty costumes showed up, and now this.   

Krillin’s like, “Honey, you knew I had brass balls when you started going out with me.   You must have known that I’d get into insane super-adventures all the time.”

Meanwhile, Piccolo wants to know how Garlic Junior escaped from the Dead Zone, since the Spice Boys are clearly too weak to have accomplished this themselves.  Piccolo’s not taking any prisoners today. 

Spice points straight up, because Part 4 was his favorite JoJo.  

The answer, as it turns out, is the Makyo Star.    Well, actually, it’s a planet, but I’m pretty sure the Japanese words for “star” and “planet” are kind of interchangeable?   I always assumed this was due to early astronomers lacking a distinction between the two.    The word “planet”, as I recall, comes from a word meaning “wanderer”, because they looked like stars in the sky, except they followed different paths through the night sky from all the real stars.  

Anyway, the Funimation dub calls it “Makyo Star”, while the subtitles translate it as “Makyo World”.   “The Planet Makyo” probably would have made more sense, but whatever.    What’s funny is that I know English has words to distinguish planets from stars, but we end up mudding the waters anyway, because “Makyo Star” sounds cooler.  

Spice’s point is that Makyo is the homeworld of the Mazoku, or Demon Clan, and it approaches the Earth once every 5000 years.  When it does, it empowers every demon on Earth, including Garlic Junior, who used the boost to muscle his way out of the Dead Zone. 

The weird thing is that he points out that Piccolo ought to have already been aware of this, since Piccolo once identified as Mazoku when he was a villain.  And this is why the Mazoku/Demon concept is so confused in this show.    Piccolo’s clearly not a demon, he’s a Namekian from the Planet Namek.   He was never not a Namekian.   I always assumed that King Piccolo called himself Daimao (demon king) because he was evil and had no idea what else to call himself. 

But then we got the lore about how anyone killed by the Mazoku was unable to find rest in the afterlife, so there seemed to be real consequences for being a demon.   This wasn’t just a throwaway line either.   Kami mentioned this rule again when Piccolo killed Raditz in DBZ.   Raditz was able to proceed into the afterlife, suggesting that Piccolo had ceased to be be a demon somehow.

This suggested to me that being a demon in Dragon Ball was more about a state of mind, or a corruption of the soul.   It was something you could inherit or succumb to, but you could also stop being one if properly motivated.    Like voting Republican.  But now, Spice is pointing to the Makyo Star, basically revealing that he’s an alien, and wondering why Piccolo didn’t already know about it.  

Confusing the issue even more, let’s not forget about the demons in the filler episode from the Fortuneteller Baba Saga.   Those guys were led by Shula, and they seemed to live in a cave.   Are they Makyans as well?    And what about the bad guys in Movie 4?   Lord Slug was a Namekian, but his henchmen called themselves Mazoku?    Were they Makyans?    And why were they vulnerable to sunlight.   

Oh, and there’s also Dabura from the Buu Saga, and all the demon lore introduced in Xenoverse and Dragon Ball Heroes, but there’s no sense getting into that.  

I guess what I’m driving at is that you’d think Spice would accuse Piccolo of being a poser.    He was never a “true” demon in the first place, because he’s from Namek and he didn’t even know what the Makyo Star was.    Instead, Spice seems to buy into him being a demon, if only a former one.  

Oh, also, while Spice tells this story, the video shows evil spirits floating through the cities, because the Makyo Star is making them stronger.    So are these Mazoku as well?   

Of course, Garlic’s whole plan this time around involves converting everyone into a demon, using the Black Water Mist.    I mean, Oolong sure as hell wasn’t a demon before, but he is now, according to the bad guys.  

And Spice is even offering to let Piccolo join them, since he used to be Mazoku before.   So it feels like the bar is pretty low for becoming a Mazoku.   You inhale cursed mist and become one against your will, or you come from the planet Makyo, or you can just be a disaffected jerk like King Piccolo or Lord Slug. 

I like the way the dub handles this scene.   Spice’s pitch is that Piccolo really has nothing left to fight for, because the battle’s already over, and Garlic won.   The Lookout has fallen, every living thing on Earth has become a loyal subject of Garlic Junior, and they really don’t seem to mind.   And wasn’t this sort of what Piccolo had been meaning to do before the Saiyans showed up?    Would it be so out-of-character for him to just accept this state of affairs and throw in with the bad guys?    Maybe this is the way it ends.    Maybe Piccolo should just take this as it is.

Yeah, right.   

Piccolo tosses off his weighted cape and turban, and everyone’s like “Is that your answer, you want to fight?”  I like that they know what’s up.   When Piccolo takes off his gear, it’s time to throw down.   

Maybe once, Piccolo might have gone along with this, but I doubt it.   Even as a villain, he was motivated by his nature as an outcast.   Spice just dared him to take on the whole world, and Piccolo’s like “wouldn’t be the first time.” 

Also, why should this dude sweat anybody on Team Garlic?   Piccolo’s faced the Saiyans and Frieza, and he’s still here.    He’s not King Piccolo’s assassin anymore.    He’s a proud son of Namek, and he’s going to honor his heritage the only way he knows how: whuppin’ some demon ass.

Of course, Piccolo can’t just fight the Spice Boys, because Yamcha’s working for them now, and he can fly and fight too.    So the Spice Boys just stand back and let Yamcha do their dirty work for them.   Gohan really doesn’t like this, and that seems to be a major theme for him in this arc.    Garlic is putting him in a position where he has to fight his loved ones, and he just can’t handle it.    As strong as he is, he lacks the will to fight back in these situations.

Oh, hey, Yukio Ebisawa is involved in this episode.     Like I said before, he’s harder to spot without Vegeta around, but when he has Maron morph into some sort of triangle monster to defend herself from Bulma and Chi-Chi, it’s hard to ignore.  

This is what Vegito dreams about...

Fortunately, Icarus shows up to save Maron.    Also, Yukio Ebisawa has her swimsuit grow to cover more of her body.    Normally, I’d complain about the continuity flub, but I’m grateful to Ebisawa for this, since his Maron would look even worse in a thong.    

Also, Evil Paur jumps in and saves Evil Yamcha from Piccolo.   This looks pretty disturbing, like Puar is eating Piccolo’s face.  

Gohan and Krillin try to help, but Piccolo sends them to Kami’s Lookout, since their only chance of fixing this mess is to get the Ultra Holy Water and use it before it’s too late.    He’s going to stay behind and hold these buttholes off.

That’s a tall order though.    Well, the Spice Boys and Yamcha are the real threat here.     Chi-Chi and Roshi, not so much, and frankly Evil Oolong looks more funny than threatening.   

Oh, then they start biting him.   Hot damn.

Goku looks like he’s pretty happy that he’s not in this episode.    “Hey, guys, it’s me, Goku!   Boy I sure am glad I’m on Planet Yardrat right now.   Yamcha looks pretty messed up!”

Back from the break, everyone jumps on Piccolo and starts bitiing him.   That’s just kind of sick how they dangle off him like lampreys.    What made them decide to do this, exactly?    Did the Spice Boys tell them to?  Did they come up with it on their own?  

Gohan was pretty reluctant to leave Piccolo in that mess, but he eventually did as he was told, and now they’re on their way to the Lookout.    So is Maron, apparently, because she doesn’t know any better, and Krillin’s too afraid to tell her no.

#squad goals.

Vinegar wants to kill Piccolo while he’s down, but Spice reminds him that if they do, the Dragon Balls will be rendered useless.   Besides, if you get bitten by someone infected with the Black Water Mist, you end up the same as if you inhaled it yourself.    So Piccolo should now be just like Bulma and the others. 

And yeah, that’s exactly what happens.   

Meanwhile, oh hell yeah, it’s the Vegeta part.   This saga rules.   

So if you’re wondering where Vegeta’s been during all of this, he left Earth in Episode 107.   Here, we see that he’s been hunting for Goku.   For some reason, this has led him to an army of Litts, the same species Vegeta mentioned when he was handing out Frieza Soldier uniforms to Krillin and Gohan.    Geets beats them all, then interrogates one to find out where Goku is.   This episode is kind of notable for being one of the few times Vegeta refers to Goku as “Goku”.

The Litts don’t know anything about it, though.   Apparently they don’t even know that Frieza’s been defeated, which seems odd, considering that he’s been gone for ten months now.   Vegeta tells this dude to pass along a message to Frieza in hell   Vegeta’s going to surpass and defeat Goku, so Frieza ought to feel grateful for this.   

Back on Earth, Krillin and the gang reach Korin’s Tower, and are relieved to find Korin and Yajirobe are unaffected by the Black Water Mist.    Korin has no idea what’s been going on, so he reads Gohan’s mind and flips out.   

So Gohan and Krillin head up to the Lookout, and leave Icarus and Maron behind.  

But when they arrive, they find the Spice Boys already waiting for them, along with their new buddy, Piccolo.    Uh-oh...

[paperclipninja]

Younger post-ep recap 6x06

Due to a rather unfortunate run in between my laptop and a glass of water I lost my original ramble for this week’s Younger (as well as the actual laptop so R.I.P Lappy, you were actually pretty terrible but we had a good run). So instead of my usual review I thought I’d do more of a recap and refresher of the last episode to get us prepped, primed and pumped (aka the 3 P's) for the next installment (ep7).

Episode 6 of Younger was in many ways so bonkers that it shouldn’t have worked, but somehow all the pieces came together and it did .Oh boy did it ever! I outright belly laughed a number of times throughout and I think my dog was mildly concerned for my well-being because there were actual tears coming out my eyes at a couple of points. I’m a sucker for a pun so ‘Merger, She Wrote’ had me at hello (you could say my hopes for the ep were high...yes I did and #notsorry). What I wouldn’t have given to be in the room to see the reactions to a script with ‘Liza goes to talk to the nurse who is actually a plant’ in it. So yes there were LOLs galore but most importantly, by the end of the ep order had been restored following the upheaval of the past 6 episodes (which is about the limit viewers can take sitting in the discomfort of an unfamiliar detour from the norm IMO: think the Bryce Reiger arc in season 3 and the Charles finding out the lie in season 5...it’s almost as though Darren and co. have done this before...), Finally the fam is back together at Millennial (or is it Mercennial now?)

Straight off the bat I was very distracted for most of the opening scene by Liza’s dress and look in general because it was AMAZING.  I am loving all the Maggie/Liza in the morning scenes we’re getting this season and Maggie in a blue coverall embarking on a DIY rope harness ceiling painting project...what could possibly go wrong? I felt mildly uncomfortable at how relatable Maggie’s not being served for 10 mins in a bar and sneaking out to the fridge in the night were, but was also mildly mesmerized by Liza’s coffee mug that looked like some kind of old-timey wash basin (turns out this was not relevant to the story but noted nonetheless). Maggie also offers the very straight forward solution of merging the two companies to alleviate the tension that’s putting Liza and Charles in ‘not a good place’ and I love that her ‘bing, bang, boom’ is echoed by Liza when she floats the idea with Charles later in the ep. 

The' Microdosing' book pitch provided us with the set up for the retreat and my fave thing about this scene was how IN character all the characters reactions were to it all; Diana is flat out appalled by the whole thing, Liza is Captain Cautious but trying to play it cool and Kelsey looks like she’s seeing colour for the first time and would 100% pledge her devotion to Travis in any kind of cult situation.

What might have seemed out of character, but actually ended up so perfectly capturing the way she always does everything with absolute gusto, was Diana's foray into boomer erotica narration (as Liza so eloquently put it, 'I think we just found our Seasoned Slut'. These lines, I swear *rofl emoji* )  I think I laughed through the entire scene of Diana in the recording studio, I mean, Miriam Shor's delivery of every line just kills me, but the highlight was undoubtedly when she suggested she could hit nipple a little harder and affirmed  'throbbing nipple' to herself as she walked back to the booth. Zane and creepy af Audrey Colbert waiting allowed for Diana to unsubtly hot foot it out of there, which was a great throwback to her refusal to be in the same room as Audrey in ep 3.

It was a also great opportunity to bring Zane and Kelsey back together and who doesn't love an awks 'accidentally had the mic open and didn't realize' moment when you're talking about how your author is definitely a murderer? I feel like Audrey may go and find another publisher now (just a hunch) but I would really like to see more of her because this character is a type of unhinged that we haven't seen on this show and I think that could be a lot of fun to see play out. I have to say that Kelsey Peters is NOT someone I picked as a boop-er of noses, yet there she was at the bar, booping Zane's nose and this was my favourite interaction of theirs in the series. I was totally digging the dynamic this ep and it will be very interesting to see what that will look like with the new work arrangements. Also, where was Zane when that was all going down btw? I assume Charles filled him in on the bringing the companies together plan before it happened?

Liza's excitement when she told Charles the idea of merging the two companies was endearing and I am unabashedly a big fan of Charles, but his attempt at convincing Liza to join him at Mercury after she tells him that she won't leave Millennial and Kelsey, by saying he left his company to be with her, was super shitty. But it was also super necessary. Because at some point this needed to be said and most importantly, Liza needed to call him out on it and let him know that he cannot use it as a bargaining chip. One of the things I love most about the Charles/Liza dynamic (aside from all the things, but that's another essay) is that Liza is her own advocate in this relationship, she will stand her ground when something is important to her and does not compromise herself to appease Charles. He is equally as stubborn but they are able to have the hard conversations that need to be had but this doesn’t lead them to question whether they want to be together (I very much appreciated the kiss on the cheek Liza gave Charles before she left for this very reason).

So of course being on a psychedelics retreat together when they've hit a roadblock in the relationship was definitely a very good idea...Well it was for us as viewers at least, because pretty much from the moment they arrive and Liza and Charles start talking straight to camera as the literal doctor (my god that whole line just cracked me up) informs them they'll be taking not-LSD, we know we're not in Kansas anymore Toto. Enter Josh for *insert drama here* purposes (and I do think he should franchise Inkburg coz why not?) and we have, ladies and gentlefolk, a recipe for some next level hilarity. But not before Josh and Liza share a lingering look as they take their dose of illicit substance to ensure that Lizs's trip includes one down memory lane.

I have made my feelings about love triangles known many times (quick recap: hard dislike. Tricky to pull off without one or more characters looking bad. Very tiring as a viewer and quite frankly I am pretty lazy and tired most of the time irl so just don't want it on my screen), however I will say that I did not see this ep as re-stoking the love triangle, I saw it as simply reminding us that it is there and can be reignited by the writers at any stage. Within the context of everything that was happening, Liza hallucinating Josh at her door actually made sense and I have no doubt that various factions of Younger fans had meltdowns at that moment for very different reasons.. Sutton Foster's physical comedy throughout this whole ep was second to none, starting at her realization that it was, in fact, Charles who had come to her room and continuing the next morning at breakfast.

Speaking of which, there was something about seeing Liza and Charles in the breakfast room together that made my sappy heart swell, it had such a vacay feel and I'm sure if you muted your volume you could pretend they were just listening to the activities for the day before going off to spend some quality time together...I mean, maybe that would be a thing, I wouldn't know....where was I? Oh yes, the unfolding of a series of comedy golden McNuggets™ that I am still laughing about. We learn that Liza is a supertaster (for those like me who pretended they understood what that meant but then realized they did not, I googled it and it means that she is sensitive to the drugs and basically the microdose affects her like a full dose, you're welcome) and I am chuckling even now when I think about Josh's, 'hey guys' in Charles' voice as he joins the table.

This is another one of those concepts that I feel like could've not worked at all but sweet lawd, the Charles and Josh voice swap scene was next level and I could watch this and the scene that follows over and over and never not laugh. I again LOVE the decision to have the guys talk to camera because it absolutely emphasizes the whole situation and Liza sidestepping away to visit the nurse just rounded off the whole crazy caper.

I have no words to describe how much I love the flat out ridiculous perfection of the visit to Nurse Maureen. Yes Liza has the epiphany that Josh and Charles bring out different things in her (though hot sex seems to be at the core of both so ya know, sounds like a win in the past and present and good for her on both accounts) and again, the unlikely scenario that her ex and current boyfriends are in the same place at the same time (while she is taking mind altering substance) has just played out so it also makes sense in this context. Quite frankly I'm shipping her and Maureen pretty hard at this point because a) it is not easy to pull off eyeshadow that green and b) everyone deserves someone in their life who has the kind of belief in Liza that Maureen does when she tells her 'I bet you can' dance just like me. I don't even know how to explain whatever that dance is but I just know that I want someone/something in my life that will windmill their/it's arms at me with such fervor that I find myself dancing with two attractive men in tuxedos on a galaxy stage.

I cannot express the joy I felt watching the entire dance scene, it was all just so. much. fun. But my absolute hands down favourite moment was when it cut back to the retreat and we, along with Charles and Josh, discover that Liza is in fact dancing with 'Maureen' the plant and seriously, this is up there with my highlights of the entire series. That and the reveal that the selfies Liza was taking were sent to Diana (Diana speaking to Liza in her 'sexy' voice, asking 'where is my plant?', Liza's, 'Maureen', I just cannot with every part of this glorious tie in at the end of the ep. I am sending Ashley Skidmore a houseplant to express my gratitude for gifting us with these moments*). Seeing Josh and Charles together was great but it was clear a scene was missing and I am SO glad that Younger released the deleted conversation between the two of them coz it was both necessary because YES and also because it suddenly made Charles' entire conversation and reason for his decision to sell Mercury make sense (ie. was pretty pivotal).

I big A adored Charles and Liza's conversation (and outfits and aesthetic overall) as they're leaving the retreat, the shift in Charles is palpable and it's just such a credit to the writing and acting to be able to convey so much in such a brief scene. Maggie of course experienced quite the shift herself, from ceiling to floor, with a sufficient amount of dangling as her helpful neighbourly pervert got himself off as she got herself down. But most importantly, Maggie got her mojo back (though is she not currently dating Beth? In which case location of missing mojo: unclear).

Now I gotta tell you, the final scene of this week's ep up and got me. Big time. Kelsey's earlier comment, that she really hates competing with Charles, certainly added weight to the resolution we've all been waiting for this season. Charles' honesty about his realisation that he is hurting his family, not to mention him confirming that he means Kelsey, Diana and Liza and that he wants to come home, ugh, my insides are gooey just writing these words, leads to his offer to Kesley and honestly, the interactions between all of them in this scene was wonderful. I loved that Kelsey held the room, that Charles was putting the offer to her from one businessperson to another (though thank goodness Diana was there to point out the difference between $1 and $1000000 eek! Also, I get that it would never occur to anyone that the price would be $1 so I'll cut Kels some slack). Diana looks like she is going to cry at any moment from elation and I love the way Kelsey asks for the approval of the ladies before shaking Charles' hand. This will forever be one of my favourite scenes on this show.

The thought of Charles coming back and working as an editor alongside Liza is an actual dream. I mean, I am very happy to be taken on the journey the writers set, but I have legit wondered what it would be like to see him in that role and he and Liza working together properly as equals and I absolutely cannot believe it's going to happen.

Well this ended up being quite a bit longer than I expected (lol, what a surprise). Bring on episode 7!

*I will not in fact be sending Ashley Skidmore a houseplant because I live in a very far away country, it would cost a lot of money and it is 1000% creepy to receive a dead plant from a stranger. 

[sparkleeemarkleee]

Take Me Home: Chapter One (Prompt: Paris in the Rain 🎶)

Author’s note: this fic is written in Y/N’s POV unless I say it’s by someone else...and also I wrote some parts of this on the plane but it got deleted so I quickly rewrote everything I could remember so sorry this isn’t written as well as I wanted it to :(

Playlist

Introduction to Main Characters

Prologue

***

“I can’t believe it,” I sighed. Donghyuck and I savoured our last cherry popsickles glumly watching the summer’s showers pour and wash away our plans.

Hyuck desperately wanted to visit our hangout one last time before we had to say goodbye to the Big House. He loved our tradition: savoury nachos and spinach dip beneath the sycamore trees, lazily swinging in the turquoise hammock that Mark begged Mama to hang up, and our bickering through the night.

A week from now, Hyuck and I were seniors. It’s all that has roamed on my mind since the beginning of August; meanwhile, Donghyuck has been pushing the thought away during the entire break. Mama on the other hand was already assuming we were dorming after graduating and decided to sell the Big House for a lovely home in the Northern side of our city. It was nowhere as big as ours in the South, but that seemed to be the only area where it fell short. Similar to the other Northern houses, it had caramel-brown wood paired with cool gray paint and plenty of glass. Too much glass that any Southern neighbour would consider “inviting trouble.” But the entire premises of the Northern community was loaded and had guards at every block which was something that Mama needed in her old age.

Hyuck and I only had today left to cherish the Big House and our South friends before moving out the boxes. Moving wasn’t all that bad; I could redecorate and walk to school instead of bussing but moving into Northern region felt traitorous. We lived in separated worlds and we liked it that way.

“Why don’t we go outside and do something worthwhile,” Hyuck suggested.

I raised brow, “Where can we even go in this weather?”

Hyuck clicked his tongue at me. “But I’m tired of sitting around,” he complained in his obnoxiously high pitched voice. “And you’re probably going to be lame if we don’t go out.”

He got you there. As the Head of Student Council, the start of the year meant a handful of tasks and planning. You were mostly done with the details of student orientation, but you still had to write your speech. Not that you were eager to write it, but you were anxious at the thought of appearing underprepared. But this was your last time here.

“Sometimes you just need to loosen up and get a little messy,” Hyuck used to tease you for not playing in the mud with him. Hyuck was the most childish person you knew, but at certain times you couldn’t help but get reeled into the madness he was associated with him.

As the rain fell harder and the little kids splashed in the puddles—a crazy thought jumped at you. Quickly grabbing your running shoes with one hand and Hyuck on the other, you both bolted out the door.

***

“Y/N, you did not,” Hyuck whined. “You are seriously not making me do this dumb sh-,” 

“Shhh. I think I hear someone coming,” I covered his mouth with my right palm and forced us to sink back into hiding.

Hyuck and I buried ourselves deeper into the green bushes on Mr. Na’s garden. I don’t remember how we both managed without a scratch but we somehow snuck into Stone Cold History Na’s prison-like fence all for the stupid dare that I came up with.

I agreed to answer any question Hyuck hurled at me honestly in exchange for my dare: to break into Na’s garden and dance in front of all of his security cameras in his mask. I mean I guess it was still trespassing, but at least it was harmless and left us anonymous. Nothing serious enough to get a scolding and whipping from Mama. But right before Hyuck was going to continue his dare we heard a car park.

A tall and slender boy with brown hair grumbled as he opened the gates and stormed into Mr. Na’s porch. He didn’t even bother to put his hood up and was soaked in the rain. I held my breath, not wanting to witness the situation unravel. Pounding his fist on the door, Mr. Na greets him with a grim look on his face.

“What the hell,” the brown haired boy spat out. “What makes you think that it’s okay for you to treat my mom like that?” My stomach lurched and my body froze. The amount of hurt and rawness in his voice sounded familiar to my ears and made me wince. As painful as History Na was this was a side of Mr. Na neither of us wanted to see and should have been witnessing. Guilt and cold sweat flooded me.

I nudged Donghyuck, “How do we get out now? What if this becomes violent? Should we call the cops?”

“You mean, risk getting a trespassing fine and being failed in History 12 by Stone Cold Na? You’re crazy. I’m not repeating senior year for this.”

“Oh my goodness. I can’t afford to have any teachers hate me. Not now!” I hissed and clawed at Hyuck’s arm in complete hysteria.

“Relax,” Hyuck says cooly in my ears. “We just need to wait out and I’m sure they’ll chill and we can leave.” 

“Why don’t you face me and stop cowering inside this house?” The brown haired boys spoke sharply. He didn’t seem the type to but he began to sob as he looked down to collect himself I got a good glimpse of him. If he wasn’t in such a heated argument with his dad maybe I would have set him up with a friend. He was charming in a prince-like way with his sharp jawline but with soft features that probably melted hearts all the time. I glanced at him once more to find him holding eye contact with me. Shoot.

He saw me. He saw us. He saw Hyuck and I looking dumb and confused in his bush. This was mortifying and humiliating in every way. I thought he was going to call us out and that Hyuck and I would end up retaking senior year for our sins but he let us go. Looking unbothered, he swiftly left his dad’s house and just like that Mr. Na was gone. And without missing a beat so were we.

_______________________________________________________________________

Another Author’s Note:

HAHAH I’m so sorry this was supposed to be fluffy with the Paris in the Rain prompt, but as I was writing this the fluff just couldn’t really come naturally to me and my first attempt of ending this chapter was just awful and cheesy so I  present you with a lil twist and a new character ;)

I know this is supposed to be a fic revolving around Mark, but as I wrote this chapter I think we found ourselves the missing member in a love triangle with Y/N and Mark :O

Also it’s late here and my brain is a lil whack so this has not been proofread but has been longgg overdue so yaa

[sweetness47]

The Day Everything Changed

Pairing Dark!Gabriel x reader

This is for @spnkinkbingo and @spndarkbingo and @heavenandhellbingo

Kink square filled: Choking

Dark Squares filled: Challenge – Coffee shop AU and Dark!Gabriel

H & H square filled: Angel warding

LOTS OF WARNINGS!!!!!! AND TRIGGERS!!!!!! DO NOT READ IF YOU ARE UNDER 18 AND IF YOU HAVE REACTIONS TO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: RAPE, NON CON, ANAL RAPE, VIOLENCE

YN ran the coffee shop, usually by herself, which didn’t really bother her. If either of her brothers were in town they always made an effort to stop by and pitch in, but it didn’t happen often. Besides, she had a guardian angel watching out for her. His name was Gabriel.

They had met by chance really. She found him laying in an alley one night, badly injured. She was exceptionally surprised when he turned out to be a real-life angel, and even more surprised when he turned around and saved her life from the same assailants that were after him. They became instant friends and more than friends shortly after. She was the only one who knew what he truly was, not even her family knew.

He came by daily, most nights staying at her apartment above the shop, always watching to make sure she was safe. He would help with the orders and the cleaning, and more importantly he would watch for any enemies who wouldn’t hesitate to use her to get to him. He loved her too much to let her come to harm.

Everything changed one particularly dark night. It was a nasty story, swooping in out of nowhere. The shop had been nearly empty all day. YN also hadn’t seen Gabriel all day. He’d been gone when she woke this morning, and didn’t leave any notes that he was going to be gone this long. Something was very wrong.

The door opened, causing YN to jump. It was her brothers. “Hey guys! What on earth would possess you two to drive in this freak show weather? Are you both nuts?”

Dean rushed over to pick her up, hugging her fiercely. “It’s great to see you too YN. We’re fine by the way, thanks for asking.”

YN giggled as he put her down so Sam could hug her as well. “Well…A. you weren’t supposed to arrive till tomorrow, B. this is stupid crazy weather, no one sane should be driving in it, and C. I’ve been rather lonely all day and somewhat concerned. You two startled me.”

Sam frowned. “Where’s your buddy Gabriel? Isn’t he usually around here somewhere?”

YN nodded. “Usually, yes. Very rare does he miss time with me Sam. And if he does, he usually lets me know. I’m really worried.”

Dean sighed. “Well, maybe he ran off with someone new or got cold feet?”

YN shook her head. “No Dean, he’s not like that. He loves me.”

Dean opened his mouth to say more but froze as the shop door opened once more. Gabriel walked in, unaffected by the weather, and the look on his face was sinister, almost frightening. A shiver ran down YN’s spine as he walked towards her, as a lion might stalk its next meal. YN went to walk to him but stopped as she realized something was wrong.

“Hey there Deano, Sammy. What’s up? I just came by for YN, but I suppose an audience is ok too.”

YN swallowed hard. “Gabriel? Are you ok? You seem off.”

Black eyes met hers. “I’m fine sweetheart. Just needing some R & R if ya know what I mean.”

“I think you should leave Gabe, and come back when you’re sober.” Sam moved and now stood between his sister and Gabriel.

Gabriel flung his arm, sending Sam flying across the room. Dean lunged at him but he too was knocked back. “You think I’m intoxicated? I’m an angel! I don’t get drunk. I do get urges though, and that’s where your sister comes in.”

YN dove for the exit but Gabriel was quicker. He went behind the counter before she could get out, holding her against the wall with his hand. Dean and Sam were now suspended against the wall across the room, and could only watch as their sister was assaulted.

Gabriel grabbed at her shirt, tearing the fabric from her body. She struggled and lashed out, only to receive a slap across the face for her efforts. “Play nice babe. Enjoy the moment. I certainly plan to.”

He ripped her skirt next, then her thin panties. Gabriel then slammed YN face first into the counter top, exposing her pussy to his hard cock. He unsheathed it from his trousers, and slammed hard into her, her pelvis hitting the counter edge, bruising her sensitive flesh. Hands left marks on her hips as he held her steady, raping her savagely and without care. He stopped briefly and pulled out, far from done.

“Since I do enjoy an audience, and you both are so attentive right now, I have always wanted to try anal with your sister.”

YN began to protest but was quickly silenced with another head slam. Blood poured from her lip and nose. He held her there while he slipped a condom over his shaft, then spread her ass cheeks and forced his entire length inside, tearing the opening. Screams tore from her throat, and she wished death would come take her as he brutally fucked her ass. His large hands came around her neck, choking her, causing her to gasp for air. Gabriel was even more turned on and thrust even harder.

Just when she was ready to pass out from lack of oxygen, he pulled out. The bloody condom was pulled off, then the archangel plunged back inside her bruised cunt. “Don’t worry doll, I’ll keep you alive. After all, you can’t carry a child if you’re dead.”

“You son-of…” Dean’s voice was cut off as Gabriel shut his mouth. Then he slammed into her harder, choking her once again as he abused her. She was crying, helpless, and worse, mortified that her brothers were being forced to witness this.

Then she remembered.

Gabriel had told her something once, something that could protect her if he ever went dark, lost control. Could she remember it? And could she do it without looking?

C’mon YN! Focus!

Circle first, right. She needed blood, her blood. She reached under the counter slowly, making sure Gabriel was still focussed on the assault. She avoided attracting his attention, and found the sharp bread knife she used for cakes and buns. Grabbing the sharp blade, she slid her finger along the steel edge, then began drawing the one thing that could end this.

Circle. Triangle above the circle. Two N’s, one on each side of the triangle, then something like a 9, a 3, a Z then an upside down lowercase g. The middle figure. Shit.

Pain racked her body as the savage rape continued.

The middle symbol! Focus YN!

It was a capital T with a back slash attached to a backwards capital L.

Gabriel grabbed her hips again as he came, filling her with his archangel grace, creating a Nephilim, just as she finished the ward. Before he could brag or say another word, YN sliced her hand across the knife again and slapped it against the drawing.

Gabriel was gone.

Her brothers fell to the floor, then scrambled to their sister, their faces shocked as they stepped behind the counter. Blood and semen coated the floor. YN was crumpled into a ball, bruises covering her hips, stomach, pelvic area, and face. Large teardrops made tracks down her swollen blood stained face.

“YN? Honey?” Dean spoke gently as Sam took off his jacket and wrapped it around her. Both brothers were fraught with concern.

She shook her head. “No.” came the soft whisper between sobs. The boys just held her while she cried, and she was grateful they were there to help her. They locked the shop, and helped her up to the apartment where they cleaned her up and put her in comfortable clothes, then put her into bed to rest. Once she was settled in, they went downstairs to clean up the café. They called their father to say they were gonna stay a while instead of heading back to the corporation. They didn’t give any details. Hell, they weren’t even sure exactly what they would have told him.

The boys did some redecorating and ran the shop while she rested and tried to recover. She wasn’t the same after that day. Then her worst fears were realized as she discovered she was indeed with child. And Sam and Dean stayed to help her with that too.

Five months to the day, YN’s life ended as she gave birth to the child she carried. She made her brothers promise to watch over her daughter, raise her right, and never let Gabriel near her.

And that’s exactly what they did.

@heavenandhellbingo @spnkinkbingo @spndarkbingo

[truthofherdreams]

is this clickbait? (2)

also on ao3 + read the first instalment

BOYFRIEND DOES MY MAKEUP ft. Peter Kavinsky

Song Not-Bakery • 5.6M views • 4 days ago

 “Hi everyone and welcome back to my second channel!” she greets the camera the way she usually does. “Today my boyfriend does my makeup and we’re here with Peter who’s, erh. My boyfriend.”

He’s already laughing. “Why do you have to say it so weird?” he teases her, his voice high-pitched from his giggles.

“I don’t know?” she replies in the same tone, looking away from the camera to stare at him. He’s got his bottom lip stuck between his teeth as he looks at her, and she forgets they’re filming, just for a second. And then she snaps out of it, focusing back on the camera. “So, yeah. It’s actually something I jokingly mentioned when Peter and I started filming together, and people have actually been requesting it a lot so…”

Kitty will edit screencaps of comments asking for this very same video in post-prod, she knows, the way she always does when people keep badgering her with the same thing over and over again. That’s how she ended up doing a fridge and pantry tour a few months ago, and a house tour too. People are damn too nosy for their own good.

“So here I am. Making a fool of myself on the Internet.”

She can’t help but laugh at Peter’s comment, just a little. “As opposed to?” she teases, and laughs some more at the way Peter’s nose wrinkles when he makes a face at her. “Anyway, I gave Peter my makeup bag, and he chose a tutorial from RomanticRonny to follow, ‘cause he obviously needs guidelines.”

“Obviously,” he scoffs. A pause. “Yeah, it’s helpful, don’t judge me.”

“Also, if you don’t already know, Veronica is moving to LA very soon and we’re all super excited about it,” Lara Jean adds, with a little wink to the camera. “So, which tutorial did you choose?”

“Well, you’re usually low-key with your makeup, so I picked something a little more bright and colourful for a change. It’s called ‘Faux Freckles and Sunset’,” Peter provides, doing little waves with his fingers to where Kitty will add the thumbnail to the video later.

Lara Jean hides her smirk. “You’re aware eyeshadow is very different on monolids, right?”

Peter pauses, looking back at her, horror on his features. He freezes for a few seconds, before he turns back to the video and pretends to stands up. “And that’s it for today guys, don’t forget to subscribe and…”

“Sit down,” she laughs. “I’ll help you.”

“Well, if you’ll help me…” he grumbles for show, sitting back down. He grabs a brush then, to brandish it in front of the camera. “Anyway, let’s get started!”

Lara Jean presses the play button on the video, already loaded on her laptop in front of them. It opens on Veronica’s final look as she greets her viewers and showcase the makeup tutorial, doing a few close-ups on the faux freckles and the eyeshadow work. It looks simple but beautiful, yet Lara Jean has no doubt Peter will struggle a little bit.

“She’s so pretty,” she can’t help but comment at Veronica’s baby doll face.

“She looks like the chick from Lucifer,” Peter adds.

Her mouth opens a little at the accuracy of his comment. “Oh my god, you’re so right!”

He preens a little, before he focuses back on the eyeshadow palette Veronica showcases on the video. “Hold on, hold on, wait, you don’t do foundation first?”

“No, eyes first.”

“Whoa, okay.” He watches as Veronica applies the first colour to her lids, before he pauses the video. “Okay, let’s try this. We don’t have the same palette but this colour looks close enough so that will do. Close your eyes.”

She’s laughing a little at how serious he is about it, but does as she’s told anyway, closing her eyes and facing him. She didn’t realise how intimate that would be, one of his legs between hers so they can sit close enough to each other, his fingers delicate as he holds her chin. He’s so close she can feel his breath on her mouth, and it only makes her want to kiss him. Which would ruin the shot, but oh well.

He softly applies pigment to her lid, then sits back to look at the result and hum his approval to himself, which makes her smile a little more.

“Don’t do that, it makes your eyes crinkle.”

“Well, excuse me for being happy,” she teases, and laughs harder when he taps her nose with one finger.

But then she sits straighter too, relaxing her features in a neutral expression. She wouldn’t want to make it harder on him, when he’s trying his best to do something decent. He plays and pauses the video a lot, to make sure he follows the instructions as accurately as possible. Eye shadow doesn’t seem to be too much of a disaster, but then he’s swearing a lot when it comes to eyeliner and mascara, giving Kitty a run for her money in blipping it all out.

“Okay, it’s not too bad,” he comments. “Oh she’s doing foundation now, cool.”

“Tell the audience why you chose that tutorial,” she prompts him as she opens her eyes again.

He’s rummaging through the mess of her makeup bag to find her foundation and a brush, before she guides him to the right one and to her beauty blender. “Cause there’s no contouring in this one.”

“Peter is scared of contouring,” she comments for her viewers.

“Am not!” he replies, almost offended. “It’s just a lot. And I like a more natural look on you.” Then, to the camera, “Who needs sharp cheekbones when you’ve got that pretty round face.”

She’s melting, just a little. “Awww, Pete.”

“Like a donut.”

“…And you ruined it.”

Her does The Face at her – when he grins so much his smile is all dimples and his eyes close almost entirely – before he goes back to the foundation. Which is kind of a mess, and she’s trying her best not to burst into laughter when he goes to town on her face with the beauty blender. She isn’t sure how effective it’ll be, cause he’s getting rid of half the product as he goes, but at least he’s having fun.

“I like how none of those brands are Western, by the way,” he comments as he shows her concealer to the camera, two fingers holding the tube with his hand behind it for the autofocus. A real beauty guru through and through.

“Yeah, it’s all Korean,” she grins. She can feel him drawing the triangle of concealer under her eyes, which might actually do a good job of hiding her never-disappearing bags. “When we go there, half the budget is for food, the other half for beauty products.”

He’s back to dabbing with the beauty blender again when he says, “And because people are going to be asking, yeah, we’re planning a trip to Korean next summer.”

She’s smiling now, chin dropping a little to hide her emotions from the camera, to which Peter replies with a large grin of his own, shaking his head a little in a silly way to mimic her and make her smile even more. Which is working, obviously.

(And if they have to cut there because he drops a quick kiss to her lips… Well. Nobody needs to know.)

“Do I need to fill your eyebrows in?” he asks next, and she’s once again stricken by how earnest he sounds.

It took them a few months to get to this video, if only because Peter was quite reluctant to do it – all because of Gen. He’d told Lara Jean that he’d asked Gen to do that kind of video before, once upon a time when they were dating, but she’d outright refused. Stated that he would only mess it up and make her look bad, and it’s not something she wanted for her modelling career. Lara Jean had (silently) called bullshit the moment he’d explained, but she could understand how he was feeling about it.

How he still feels, careful not to mess it up, to do something good so she will be pleased and happy about him. Not for the first time, she’s saddened by how insidious a toxic relationship can be to someone like Peter, too kind and too people-pleasing.

“Only if they look too powdery,” she explains.

He leans in closer, frowning at her eyebrows, before he blows on them softly. It tickles a bit and makes her laugh, to which Peter replies with a smile. “It’s fine. Also, no lipstick, your mouth is fine.”

“Your mouth is fine too.”

He grins. “You’re welcome.” Then he’s grabbing her chin again, his fingers soft against her skin as he turns her head this and that way to check up on his work, before he nods sagely. “Good. Freckles now.”

It goes a little bit faster from there, hand-poking faux freckles on her nose and cheekbones in different eyebrow pencil colours to make them look natural, before he dabs them with a beauty blender. Before she knows it, he’s nodding again and grabbing a round mirror.

“You ready?” he asks, eager and excited.

She loves him so much it hurts.

“Yeah, show me,” she replies, clapping her hands before raising them in front of her mouth.

He flips the mirror over so she can see her reflection, and her mouth opens in surprise.

“Oh my god, Pete,” she whispers as she leans in closer to the mirror.

The blending on her eyelids need a bit of work, and her eyeliner is definitely wonky, but the faux freckles look amazing, and the warm colour palette on her eyes looks amazing. He really did take care of all the details, and so she leans closer to the camera so the audience can look at the results too.

“You like it?” he asks, suddenly shy and nervous.

Her boyfriend. Her beautiful, amazing boyfriend.

“I love it!” she exclaims. “It’s so different, wow! Look at those colours!”

And if many people comment about how he’s blushing and looking at her adoringly, well. It’s nice to brag about how awesome Peter is, once in a while. He deserves it, if anything else.

  Gabe Rivera ✓2 days ago

GUYS TONE IT DOWN THERE ARE KIDS WATCHING!!!!!

View 47 replies v

 RomanticRonny ✓1 day ago

Awwwww you guys! Peter did such a good job! Can’t wait to meet you all next month!

View 51 replies v

 bellyrubs 2 days ago

I know we’re all always commenting on the way LJ looks at him in the vlogs but can we talk about how SOFT Peter is around her? How he was delicately holding her face? The compliments all through the video? How pleased he was that she liked the look? We stan one perfect boyfriend.

View 35 replies v

 CovinskyIsLove 3 days ago

doctor: you only have 16:47 minutes to live

me: *clicks on this video*

View 29 replies v

 HairyPouter 4 days ago

last time I came this early Gen was still in the vlogs

View 8 replies v

[otterskin8]

Thoughts on Endgame

Hey everyone else had an opinion, I thought I’d try having one too! 

Spoilers Follow

Honestly, sometimes it feels a little like everything is on fire whenever I stroll into the fandom and I’ve just got a dopey grin on my face as everyone runs around screaming. 

 I came out of the theatre having had a good time and pleased that certain things were tied off nicely for certain characters. I like the Russos fine but have wanted them to show more personal flair in their work. In this film, in particular, the second act, I thought they really did - there was a lovely, meandering quality to the film that allowed for a lot of humour and fun character beats. It was unexpected and felt like - well, Community (also nice to see those cameos, I loved that show). I really hope to see more of that quirky sense of pathos and fun in their future work. 

This ended up being more a celebration of what the MCU’s accomplished so far than necessarily a finale for all of that. It was, as I expected, mostly a goodbye to Cap and Tony. I like both characters (though I still have my frustrations with them as well), and I pretty much predicted this ending when I placed my bets in 2017 (Cap finally decides he doesn’t have to be a soldier forever and retires, as he deserves, and gets to be a man again, while Tony finally does get the family he wanted but loses it so he can be the new Spider-Man’s Uncle Ben in that franchise. We’ll see if my prediction of a JARVIS-Tony computer program comes true. Maybe Riri Williams breaks into his lab and he appears over her shoulder like Clippy. ‘I see you are trying to steal all my old schematics. Would you like some help with that?’ You heard it here first, folks.) Best of all, Nebz was even more front and centred than I hope possible. She carried the heart of the film and delivered. I loved her confusion, half-regret and grief at Thanos’ first death (such a great shot, her with his head in her arms) to her final victory over herself. I particularly appreciated the opening on her and Tony, where she gets a taste of what it’s like to actually have a caring dad. It makes Tony’s final killing of Thanos feel more right in the story - the flawed father figure who rose up and put children first above his own ambitions kills the one who always put his ambitions first. That cute triangle game Nebula and Tony played explained so much about both of them. So, so good.

I loved Professor Hulk. I wish we’d seen him come to be - he was robbed of that culmination - but I’ve never wanted to hug the guy more. I think he was a fascinating sign of the guilt Banner had. I really loved how the time jump allowed these massive changes in the characters, that they took some big risks to their recognizability. I found that very rewarding. 

The same goes for Thor. My gosh, I loved what they did. I’d bet money that Hemsworth pitched it too, this seems like an idea he’d have. Thor is, of course, my favourite Avenger. It is often painful to watch him sidelined in the Avengers films since the series’ original, more grounded flavour made him an odd player out, preferring to showcase Steve and Tony. He was the unloved member of the trilogy. The same could be said about this film, but honestly Thor is given everything I ever wanted him to deal with in this film. His trauma finally caught up with him and he can’t hide it anymore, and it’s wonderfully heartfelt and funny and sweet and subverts all those ‘paragon of manliness’ tenants Thor has represented throughout history. His strength in this film comes not from being told to ‘buck up’ by Rocket (I loved that his attempt to pep talk and slap Thor into readiness was a total failure), nor from his body, nor, even, from his own mind. Thor gets to run crying to his mum and that’s treated as the healthy and correct thing to do. A necessary thing, even. Frigga delivers the best line in the film (sorry Love You 3000, you get a solid second). 

“Everyone fails at who they’re supposed to be.” I think that hits everyone. It certainly did me. The expectations put on us all, by ourselves, our parents, the needs of our age - they are as crushing as a hammer on your chest. 

Thor is the MVP of this film aside from Nebula. He gets to show the most range, the lowest of the lows and funniest of highs, in the very same scene and often at the very same time. It’s tragicomedy at its finest, which is what I come to the MCU Thor for. The incredible vulnerability combined with excellent comedic timing made this a performance that stands out in the arc. I was also surprised to see this huge, large, film of the century took time to go back to a sadly maligned chapter in its saga - Thor: The Dark World (my problems with it are manifold but I am tired of hearing it called the ‘worst’. That is not true. I know you all forgot about it, but the Incredible Hulk is still technically in the MCU, and there are plenty of other weak chapters that don’t manage to push their characters’ stories forward at all.) Not only that, but it patched one of my main criticisms of that film - that Thor had no time with his mother and their relationship didn’t feel explored enough. And that Thor needed to cry more. I come for man tears, that was what Branagh promised me and frankly I was getting dehydrated of late. So thank you End Game, I am quenched for now. 

I’m sure this will come up in the big long thing I’m doing about the overall themes of the MCU (Dads and Legacy mostly), but this film managed to address some questions the MCU has posed in entry after entry. Thor’s journey has been shaped by his father, and his search for his father’s approval. Sometimes he was found lacking, and other times he realized he needed to abandon that approval to do the right thing, but always he was trapped in the legacy of that father - the mistakes that father had made, and what his father wanted him to become. This film suggests a wonderful alternative to Thor - that he is also his mother’s son, and her desire is for him to be himself first. Once he hears that, he’s able to call Mjölnir - a sign that he also has his father’s approval, after all. No, I do not mind that the hammer came back from the dead for a little fun - it had meaning and significance in its scenes. (Although I still don’t get what’s the big deal of Steve lifting it - it’s a bit a jerk of a hammer, have you seen the list of who else could pick that thing up? Hela, Odin, Thor. All morally gray people. ‘Worthy’ seems to be a matter of conviction, confidence, and desire to act. Not inherent goodness. Eh.) I love that Frigga, long shuffled to the back of the Thor franchise, is given such a key and beautiful moment in this monster film. I love that she gets to be mischevious, fun, hint a little more at her backstory (witches, eh?) and play psychiatrist to a son who really needs her. I always wanted more of these two, and was CONVINCED I’d never get it. I think I’ve died and gone to Valhalla. 

Are there a few lines I wish were cut? Yes, there are some unkind words I wish had been altered - they are unnecessarily cruel and reflect badly on the characters who say them (in particular WM - dude. C’mon.) Rocket’s fine, though - that’s who he is (and that behaviour is changing) and he is not rewarded for his crass treatment. It fails.  Further lessons for character development - trauma isn’t fixed with violence. Pay attention, Rabbit. There are also plenty of plot holes and weird questions. Why can the tesseract suddenly be used without a device? Doesn’t that mean Loki could’ve teleported everyone to safety in IW? Speaking of, why did Thor not try harder to communicate with Loki or steal him from another timeline? I feel like an explanation was called for. It also kinda sucks that IW ended with Thor avenging Heimdall (awesome dude, I love him a lot, but...really? That’s the death they directly reference in Thor’s big moment? I thought they’d use Heimdall there and have Loki be more at the forefront of Thor’s mind in this one, but he seems more banished from his thoughts than Thanos’ name). But eh, at the end of the day, this isn’t meant to be the ending for either Thor or his brother. That’s the best part. I get to ride this train for years to come, and hopefully many more good things are coming. (Although I’m getting bad juju from every announcement I hear about the Loki series so far, so here’s hoping I don’t look back at laugh bitterly at my past self’s optimism.) 

I do hope that when Thor’s story does eventually come to an end that it’s in his own franchise. I feel like ending Cap and Tony’s story here is big and fun and all, but the Thor films began very intimately (somehow THOR might be the smallest film Branagh ever directed) and I hope to see them end that way. And I hope that even with the Loki series doing its own thing and Thor off with the Guardians that the two will be allowed to come back together again for something meaty before the end.

This film did right by my faves, and while it’s unwieldy, lopsided and imperfect it manages to set up the fictional people I care about for interesting things. Here’s to another decade of watching these actors barely age.

P.S. I am genuinely concerned that Eternals is going to hook me. Hmm. I can only hope they don’t do the Arthurian Legends or Egyptian Mythology as well. I’ll be sunk. 

[lowsodiumlevels]

Fun fact: This is the first time I've written a threesome smut. So gimmie a break if it's not good.

Tokien had put on a Tv show, Sex sent me to the ER, and waited for his two visitors. Nadina and Xopium were coming over to hang out with their respective red/black quadrant. They have been able to settle and get comfortable with the strange love triangle they have. Kinda to the point at times Nadina has to fulfill the pitch quadrant between the other two before things got too violent. Usually a kiss or two works. Xopium and her were moirails, but even after talking to Catrin, she’s learned that some pale quadrants actually are a bit more affectionate as long as the more intimate quadrants are okay. Rules are set in place, such as no kissing when Tokien isn’t around. (Xopium likes to tease that Tokien just wants to watch.) Knocking on the door to the host’s hive, the two seadwellers waited. It only took a moment for Tokien to be at the door. Pulling them both inside and giving them their respective affection.

“HEY YOU TWO. 1 WAS JUST WONDER1NG WHAT T1ME YOU TWO WERE COM1NG.” Looking at the plate Xopium was carrying. Seafood. Oysters to be exact. “D1D YOU GUYS JUST GET THAT?” He’s never had those before. “WELL, COME ON.” Already walking to the couch to watch Tv. Nadina just followed behind. Curling up against her matesprit and resting her head against his shoulder. “CX So what show is this?” “JUST SOMETH1NG 1 USUALLY WATCH EVERYDAY. YOU TWO M1GHT F1ND 1T ENTERTA1N1NG.” Nadina just nodded, humming a bit when Xopium finally came over. Setting the food down and getting underneith the two. Petting Nadina a bit beforee Xopium.

About 15 minutes of silence and watching the TV while they ate went by. Nadina wasn’t really sure why these shows talked about the stories some older trolls and adults had about their pailing stories. She was even more confused on why it showed scenes of them getting it on. Not saying a word though, she wasn’t the type of person to complain. The food was really good. Her and Xopium managed to make a good three dozen oysters on the halfshell. Cleaned and all. About half that were gone was because of Nadina. The texture reminded ehr of something, but she couldn’t remember what. “CX So why do people do stupid things when being close to eachother? CX'' That's what she calls pailing. “-> BecAuse it’s a good example of WhAt not to do When fucking Around. -> Could reAlly help in the long run.” “CX Are you saying I’m bad at that kind of stuff!? CX” Nadina popped up a but. She felt alittle hurt by that comment. “NO, YOU’RE NOT. HE’S JUST BE1NG AN ASS.” Tokien pulled her back down and started pecking at her neck. “YOU’RE GREAT 1N BED. 1 CAN SAY THAT FOR A FACT.” Xopium just rolled his eyes and pulled the two closer so he could get in contact with Tokien’s neck. “-> Well, I’m sorry thAt I dont hAve thAt informAtion. -> ThAnk you.” Giving Nadina his usual wink as he planted a soft nip on Tokien. “-> But I cAn sAy thAt you Are reAlly something in the sAck.” Petting Tokien’s hair before grabbing his horn. Tokien couldnt help but let out a soft moan. “YOU SH1T.” Groaning against Nadina’s neck as his face was flushing a bright teal. “CAN'T YOU SEE THAT 1’M BUSY AT THE MOMENT?” Grabbing Nadina’s horn to mess with. Enjoying how she was still senstive to everything just but the way she wimpered. Feeling her gills flare up under his lips. “-> Oh I knoW. -> Don’t mind me. I ActuAlly WAnt to WAtch.” Pulling his hand away and sitting up agasint the arm of the couch. A smirk lining his face as he ignored the tv show for the one infront of him.

Tokein couldnt help but gently pin his lover to the back of the couch. Pressing a hungry kiss on her lips as his hand glidded from her horn, down her hair, and over her breast. Stopping to pull away. Looking for any sort of permission to move forward. Nadina nodded, grabbing Tokien hand to help slip down her dress a bit more. Thank goodness that she wore her usual strapless. Smirking, Tokien was already back to his previous action. His right hand massaging Nadina’s breast, while the other wandered off of her, slightly to the left, and cupping Xopium’s groin.Not planning on leaving the third party out of the fun. Hearing a sharp groan from the other, Tokien smirked. Pressing agasint the cloth and gently pressing his fingers right where Xopiums nook should be. Hearing small sighs and shakey gasps, he knew he was doing something right. With the hand that was messing with his princess, Tokien slipped up Nadina’s dress. Revealing her flush nook. Pressing a single finger inside, Tokien could feel how tight she was. Probably tigher than the first time they did something like this. Watching his matesprit squirm and shiver from just the slightest of touches. Oh how it turned him on. “-> Are you going to give me some more Attention or WhAt, fucker?” The teal blood just cocked his head and looked over at Xopium. His face a bright viloet. Breath heavy and needing more than what he was getting. Tokien just pulled that hand away. Mostly out of spite. Going back to Nadina and how her bulge had already unsheived itself. “THAT’S 1T. GOOD G1RL.” Pressing a soft his on her lips. It only lasted for a second before he was stolen away. Xopium grabbed him by the horn again. “-> You little shit.” Nipping at his neck again and pulling out his own bulge. “-> Be a good loWer blood And pleAsure me… -> NoW.” Tokien just rolled his eyes and did as he was told. Pumping Xopium the same speed he was messing with Nadina. He’s not going to finish either of them off like this. That just won't do. Especually for his aching needs.

Nadina just shivered at the pleasure and leaned against Tokien Shoulder. Watching Xopium mess with him and touch him. Is it bad that it was a bit hot? Two people she cared so much about getting that close to one another? It made everything just feel so much better. Kissing and nipping at Tokien’s neck, like how her moirail did. Subconciously grinding against Tokien’s fingers. Feeling three in there now, his thumb pressing against her bulge. Kissing his ears and noticng the ear cuffs were on. So cute. “CX Tokien… CX” She could feel the familar bubble in her stomach. She was going to finish soon. Not yet. Pulling Tokien’s hand out, she got a look of confusion in return. “CX C-can we do more? CX” Giving off her innocent look. This was so much fun, she didn’t want it to end too soon.

Xopium just watched this. Groaning when he was being touched, but this isn’t mearly as much as he wanted either. “-> Give the lAdy WhAt she WAnts and do more. ->Come on Tokien. ->ReAlly show her hoW much of A freAk you Are.” He’s going to have so much fun with these two. Leaning over to strip Tokien of his overvest and shirt. Tossing them to who knows where. Shucking off his pants to the same unknown location. Pessing a soft kiss to Nadina’s cheek as he took off her clothes too. He wanted to see everything. Last was his. It took a bit because of his jewlery and how his horns hooked onto his shirt. Which was bullshit. A mess of pink, blue, and viloate was already appearing. Mostly purple from how the colors mixed. Getting behind Tokien, he was pretty much the one in control now. Settling Nadina on the couch under them. “If either of you want to stop, just tell me.” He is quite sure Nadina hasn’t done anything like this before. He wants to make sure she’s okay. Watching at Tokien guided his bulge into Nadina’s tight nook. Giving him a moment to groan and what he can only presume to be a tight, little nook. He gave Tokien a harder bit on the neck before pressing inside the tealblood. Feeling him shake as he was suddenly being taken in two ways. Good little low blood. Already slowly thrusting in, causing a chain effect for Nadina to slowly start to get fucked. Watching her moan and shiver at the movment. Seeing her bulge move around for any attention. Reaching down to let the pink muscle wrap around his hand. “WHY THE HELL ARE YOU TOUCH1NG HER?” Tokien barked a bit. “-> BecAuse you’re not.” Giving a hard thrust and watching them both let out a sharp moan. It only made him want to pick up speed.

Tokien was slowly seeping into bliss. He wasn’t entirely sure if his kismesis meant to bring oysters to make this happen, or this was just another influced in the seep of sexual tenstion between the three. Knowing anotomy and how seafood can boost libido. Xopium was basiaclly setting the speed of how fast they were. Already feeling his own nook get pounded into. He tried thrusting his hips in rhythm. Wanting to give both of his lovers a good time. Neither of them would be able to have something like this without him. Curresing Nadina’s face before planting another soft kiss. Groaning when Xopium hit just the right spot. Pushing his hips back again before giving a hard thrust. Feeling genetic materal drip down his legs. The faster Xopium was thrusting, the more force he was putting in, and it was alot more than the last times they'd fucked. (It’s been a while, since their black romance was just rekindled) The more forced his kismesis was doing him, the less he had to make up for his matespirt. Hearing her moan and gasp for air. Clinging onto his horns as she was getting pounded into. Tokien was able to shift a bit to hit a place to really make her scream.

Xopium just watched this as well. This was hot as hell. Grabbing onto Nadina’s hip, careful not to scratch her, he really started to give it. His buldge thrusting and thrashing inside Tokien. Feeling him shake and shiver against his chest. He was definatly close by now. “-> You better not finish just yet. -> You’ll regreAt it.” Biting Tokien’s ear as he fel himself watching to finish. Moving his hand back to Nadina’s bulge, he started to move his hand against it. Feeling how slick it had gotten. It didnt take long for his moirail to turn into a shivering, soaked mess as she finished. Spilling pink all over his hand and Tokien’s thighs. “-> NoW you cAn.” Xopium was still giving the same amount of force as he had been. Not even ten seconds later, he finished. Tokien was slumped against the troll under him. Pecking and kissing her cheek as he was now coming down from his high. Looking up at Xopium. Waiting for him to be done abusing his now overstimulated nook. That look set the viloet blood off. Filling him up with his genetic material. Finally pulling out and looking at the mess that all made. Colors everywhere. Not that it was a sore sight. It was a wonderful one. He wanted it painted so he may stare and be aroused all over again just by a glance. “-> Well, thAt WAs fun, but We should probAbly go cleAn up noW.” The episode on the Tv long ended and had started showing another episode. They didnt care. Xopium grabbed each troll in one warm to carry to the bathroom. Getting a whine from Nadina, who wanted to stay on the couch and cuddle. “-> We cAn do thAt in the bAth. -> You Also need to leArn About After cAre.” 

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

Shrimp response: GOOD SHIT! THAT'S SOME GOOD SHIT R-RIGHT THERE! *SCREAMING*

[jessicakmatt]

Sample and Hold: Arpeggiators and Big Brass

Sample and Hold: Arpeggiators and Big Brass: via LANDR Blog

Welcome to Sample and Hold, the series on the LANDR Blog where we highlight one unique crate-digging session and the digger’s gold we came back with using Selector—the world’s first AI sample recommendation tool.

Starter loop: Arpeggiated Synth

I’ll start this Sample and Hold session with an arpeggiated synth sample from LANDR’s Arp sample starter pack.

There were lots of great arpeggiator samples in the pack, but this somewhat extended sample stood out to me for its gritty synth texture, slower pace, rhythmic quality, and longer sweep.

Arpeggiation is a very popular synth effect that takes held notes and sequences them in a pattern.

This creates the sound of an arpeggio– a sequence of notes that are based on a chord.

Arpeggios have been part of music for centuries, they’re usually one of the first things you’ll learn when starting piano or guitar.

Arpeggios have been part of music for centuries, they’re usually one of the first things you’ll learn when starting piano or guitar.

When synths went digital and started using microchips in the 1970s, it was finally possible to sequence a held note to an arpeggio pattern.

This enabled producers to create robotic-sounding arpeggios that could be modulated and sped up to impossibly fast speeds.

Today’s arpeggiators offer a ton of interesting options. You can customize your rhythmic pattern sequence and the number of octaves your arpeggio will move through.

Not to mention the number of complex synth sounds you can easily put into an arpeggiator.

You can see much of this in the sample I chose from LANDR’s Arp pack.

Selection 1: Polyphonic Synth Pad

After I picked that arpeggiator sample I hit the selector button and found this sample on the second page.

It’s a huge airy pad that sounds like it’s got a few different layers playing at the same time.

Synths that can play more than one patch together at the same time are called multitimbral.

I hear some airy noise and a choir style synth sound in this complex texture, but there could be even more layers.

I hear some airy noise and a choir style synth sound in this complex texture, but there could be even more layers.

My colleague Michael Hahn did a great job of writing about FM synthesis in a previous Sample and Hold article, so instead let’s talk about multitimbral synths.

I’ve had synth soundscapes on my mind since Korg released the new Wavestate synth a few days ago.



It’s a really, really cool wavetable synthesizer that among many things features for independent layers that can be sequenced to create extremely expressive atmospheres.

I love it when you can add percussive elements or some airy ambience like you hear in this Selector result.

It’s truly mind-bending how many opportunities open up when using a multitimbral synth.

Selection 2: Brass Melody

Once I hit the Selector button on the polysynth track, I found this heavy-hitting brass melody on the second page of AI-generated results.

Epic brass synth tone made a huge comeback ever since trap music exploded in popularity.

I think trap and electronic producers like the in your face and somewhat sporty nature of the brass sound. The NBA 2K20 soundtrack comes to mind on this one.

This and many other brass samples emulate the big tone that football stadium marching brass line bands are known for– B-E-Aggressive, overblown, loud, and punchy!

Listen to how loud Carolina Crown’s brass section can get in this video.



From a music production angle, synthesizing brass isn’t all that easy.

There’s a lot going when a horn note is played–  Vibrating lips, harmonic qualities in the horn itself, air passing through the instrument, and the many ways horn players modulate the pitch and tone with their mouth all have an effect on the sound that comes out of the other end.

Vibrating lips, harmonic qualities in the horn itself, air passing through the instrument, and the many ways horn players modulate the pitch and tone with their mouth all have an effect on the sound that comes out of the other end.

So when you’re playing with a brass sample or synthesizer you need to think about a few things.

Most importantly the attack, decay, and sustain will have a major effect on your brass tones.

To craft the perfect horn sound for your track you really need to understand how ADSR envelopes work.

Horn players have to attack a note and then sustain a standing wave within the instrument with just the air passing through their lips. Attacking is harder at low pitches and higher pitches are more difficult to sustain too.

The other thing to keep in mind is that the air passing through the horn will give an airy noise quality to the sound of the horn.

To get a convincing you synthesized brass sound, you’ll have to apply noise within your synth tone.

Perhaps the airiness in the polyphonic synth sound I found earlier is why Selector returned this brass sample.

You also might be wondering how to get that growling sound that is present in this sample which so electronic producers seem to gravitate towards with their horn samples.

One way to get an extra bit of growl in your synth brass is to modulate the filter’s cutoff frequency with a fast LFO.

To get an even more convincing synth tone, the last step is to apply some vibrato.

Since horn players use vibrato only after a note is sustained, make sure your vibrato LFO is delayed so as to only apply it to the sustain part of your ADSR envelope.

Brass tones are difficult to get right, luckily a lot of the hard work has been for you with dedicated soft synth presents, and of course pre-made samples.

But, knowing a little bit about how brass tones are synthesized can help you know how to craft the perfect custom sound.

Knowing a little bit about how brass tones are synthesized can help you know how to craft the perfect custom sound.

For inspiration here’s a great example of a banging track that makes use of a huge horn synth tone.



Selection 3: Buzzing Triangle Synth Pad

The first result on page two of my Selector query for the horn sample caught my attention.

It’s just a simple tone but I could immediately see why Selector’s AI matching system might have paired the two samples.

To my ear, the similarities lie in the sustained brass tone and buzzing synth tone.

Both sounds have that gritty and growling quality that can only come from a triangle or saw waveform.

That gritty and growling quality can only come from a triangle or saw waveform.

It’s hard to say exactly which oscillator wave shape this sample makes use of, but I’m certain there’s some element of a saw or triangle in the synth patch.

Another thing that stood out to me is that like the sample from my first Selector session, this sample came from a polyphonic synth– you can clearly hear a high and low pitch in the sample.

The sample reminded me of a synth tone Justice used on their track Let Their Be Light from their incredible self-titled album.



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from LANDR Blog https://blog.landr.com/sample-and-hold-arpeggiators-and-big-brass/ via https://www.youtube.com/user/corporatethief/playlists from Steve Hart https://stevehartcom.tumblr.com/post/190273472559