#yeah I'm talking to you in the street but i am absolutely not a red flag

[tenrose]

Does someone have a secret recipe to get unwanted men the fuck out of my life???

[cerealboxlore]

Billy Batson related question, as always! How do you think the League would react to Black Adam knowing who the Captain is, especially when they don’t even know? (The relationship between Billy and Teth doesn’t matter, they could be allies or enemies).

Billy Batson related questions are my personal favorites!

The idea of the Justice League not knowing who Captain Marvel's secret identity is always makes me giggle :D it's the layer of mystery and unknown danger that presents itself behind not knowing who the Big Red Cheese is that keeps them on edge sometimes. They admire their friend, but sometimes they do wonder, are they his friend? What is he? An alien? A human? A monster beneath the disguise of a man? Three kobolds in a trenchcoat? Nobody knows... They do wish to get to know their friend better.

Normally, most league members have their secret identities kept, you know, a secret. With the exception that Batman knows, of course. However, even he remains stumped on this mystery. He doesn't enjoy not knowing who Captain Marvel is behind the boy scout smile he often shines, but Batman is determined to find out one day. There's almost some respect for how well the Captain manages to hide his identity and tracks.

Meanwhile, Billy is surprised he's lasted this long with a secret identity. He's working with a braincell, half an oreo cookie, and a dream.

I got sidetracked, ack! Okay, so the relationship (depending on which version of Captain Marvel and Black Adam you are familiar with) is almost always going to be personal. There's their shared relationship with the wizard Shazam, but the one I'm most familiar with and enjoy is Black Adam being the one to have killed Billy's parents. (Also, I appreciate you separating the identity of Black Adam and Teth!)

It would be absolutely amazing and gutwrenching to see Captain Marvel shake hands with a "reformed" Black Adam, possibly during a public setting with the JL in attendance, fully knowing the truth behind his parents murders and still going through with the painful decision to let him go unpunished.

For Billy, this hurts. On a deep level that scars his heart and soul for allowing his parents deaths to go unavenged. For the years of pain, he spent alone on the streets homeless and separated from his twin sister, none of it can be fully healed no matter how hard he tries to forget. Scars fade over time, but to Billy, time is eternity. This pain will follow him for eternity.

However, as Captain Marvel, he understands that there's more to the situation that he can't control, and fighting Black Adam would only make things worse. With the wisdom of Solomon, he knows he can't justify a fight against the ruler of a nation, no matter what. So he just smiles for the camera and shakes the hand of the man who orphaned him.

It is through holding Black Adam's hand that the thought passes through his mind: the hand he's holding right now was once stained with the blood of his parents.

Then, the heroes are given a moment of privacy to be around each other without the public's eyes or ears to interfere, and that's when **** hits the fan.

Captain Marvel is avoiding Black Adam, understandably, but when Black Adam loudly calls out his name among the other heroes, Billy can't help but feel rage boil inside his divine blood.

"William. I thought you knew better than to ignore others when they're trying to talk to you. Such rudeness, I am most glad your parents were not the ones to raise such behavior in you."

Whispers among the league ensues. Was that the Captain's name? Did Black Adam know Captain Marvel on a personal level rather than just a regular hero and nemesis level? Despite the eyes watching them, waiting and prepared to step in case of a fight, the Captain grits his teeth and, through miserable eyes of a broken man, chooses to smile.

"Yeah, they really were good people, Adam. I may not live up to their expectations, but I do live for them. Every day. I suppose I have you to thank for that."

"Your gratitude is most welcome, William. May one day come where you live for Mary and Frederick, as well. They would appreciate you honoring them."

Through a wicked smile, Black Adam chuckles, turning his back to take his leave back to Khandak. Leaving Captain Marvel still smiling all alone, his fists at his side curled with rage, drawing his own divine blood from the intensity of his own strength.

After that, the league would be in all rumors and whispers about Captain Marvel. From the past, they knew that Black Adam was fond of taunting the Captain with strange and mean words during their harrowing battles, but had it all been a personal dig at him all this time? Did Black Adam have a hand in accidentally giving Captain Marvel the motivation to become a hero?

Superheroes like Batman would immediately be looking into any information they learned from this and try to decipher what is the truth behind the Captain. Or should he say, "William," now having a name to the face of the hero of Fawcett. He would also be investigating Black Adam far more closely now, should the reformed man ever step out of line. If he heard right and Black Adam had indeed killed the Captain's parents, then he needed to keep an eye on Captain Marvel, too. In case of a breakdown or instability in emotions.

On the other hand, heroes like the Flash and Superman would take the time to visit the Captain in his city and check on him. They'd be concerned after seeing how pained Captain Marvel was. If a villain like Black Adam knew who the Captain was and specifically chose not to reveal his true identity to the public and just the Justice League, then perhaps there was more to it. Superman knew as well how painful it was to let a guilty man go free because he was deemed "reformed" in the eyes of the public (Lex Luthor, ew).

Overall, there would be a whole range of emotions after finding out Black Adam knows who Captain Marvel is. And I am here for it!

[kylie-writes-stuff]

Protector

pairing: Nick Miller x reader word count: 1.8k summary: y/n goes to the loft to find jess, needing comfort after a recent breakup. she's surprised to find that nick's the only one home warnings: mention of a breakup, needing comfort. fluff. toxic ex + messages from said ex. jealous/protective!nick. not really proof read. a/n: hi!! i've really been wanting to get back into writing and Nick Miller's recently infested my brain. this is my first time writing for him so i hope you enjoy it as much as i do :) not my gif!

You walked down the streets of Los Angeles, the bright afternoon being a stark contrast to your current mood.

You couldn't trust yourself to drive right now. Not with your vision so blurry from the tears building in your eyes. Luckily, you knew the way to your friend's loft like the back of your hand.

You kept your head down and your hood up, carefully weaving between the many strangers that shared the sidewalk with you. You ignored the world for the time being. You couldn't even spare a greeting to Outside Dave when he began spouting nonsense.

You needed to see Jess. She was always there for you and she knew how to comfort you. You talked to her about everything, but you hadn't really been able to for the last few days since she's been so busy at school. You had tried to deal with everything yourself as you patiently waited for today, knowing she'd be home soon after school let out and free for the rest of the weekend.

Of course, you knew Cece was there for you too. But you couldn't go to her right now, not with this. Not yet, at least.

The elevator doors opened and you took a sharp right, making a beeline towards the apartment. You took a breath and opened the door.

They really need to start locking it, you thought.

You quickly glanced around the loft, only to see it empty. You were about to turn to knock on the door of Jess' room, before you heard the one across open.

"Finally, someone's home! So I had this idea, right, and- Oh!" You quickly turned your face back towards the floor, not wanting him to see you with your eyes all puffy. "Hey, (Y/n)!"

You knew the guys, as you were over at the loft all the time. You got along with all of them well and you enjoyed their company. You didn't want to ruin Nick's perception of you by showing a weak side of you.

"Hey, Nick. Uh, is Jess home?" You asked him.

"Nah, she's in like a staff meeting or something... (Y/n), are you okay?"

"Yeah, I-I'm fine. I just needed to talk to Jess, you know? Um, I'll get out of your hair, though, sorry I dropped in unannounced."

You turned back towards the door before a hand on your arm stopped you.

"Whoa, hold on. (Y/n), you already came all this way, just wait here for Jess to get back. C'mon, hang with your ol' pal Nicky!"

"It's okay, really. I don't wanna bother you."

"Hey, you're never a bother. Plus, when am I ever busy?"

You chuckled, "Got me there. Alright... Nicky."

"Yes! You want a beer?"

"God, yes please."

You made your way to the couch as Nick went to the kitchen. He kept his eyes fixed on you as he opened the bottles in his hand.

You were hurting and he could tell. He could see it in your slumped shoulders, your wavering voice, your leg currently bouncing up and down. He could tell by your red eyes that you tried so desperately to hide from him. You never realized, but he noticed a lot about you every time you were together.

Even if it wasn't just the two of you, you'd be the only thing he could focus on. In the loft with all his friends around, he'd immediately be drawn closer to you the second you walked through the door. He could spot you easily in a crowded bar.

It's like you had him under a spell and he couldn't break free.

He absolutely hated seeing you like this. So even though talking about emotions made him feel... weird, he'd do what he could. Even if it was just having a beer together and trying to make you laugh, he wanted to be there for you.

Nick sat next to you on the couch and handed you the ice cold bottle. The two of you sat, drank,and talked. Conversation with Nick always flowed comfortably. There was something about him that made it so easy to talk to him without getting bored. You were also very curious about his idea he had mentioned when you first arrived.

That made him feel good. He was able to, hopefully, get you mind off of whatever was bothering you. But you also genuinely cared about what he had to say. It was nice.

It seemed to just be getting later and later as the two of you opened more bottles.

Eventually, your mood had dropped again. You tried to hide it as best as you could. I mean, surely Jess couldn't be gone that much longer, right? But Nick noticed right away.

"Alright," He tapped your knee with the bottle in his hand, your attention snapping back towards him. "I'd say we got a good buzz goin'. Talk to me, (Y/n). What's wrong?"

You took a deep breath and sighed. "You know that guy I've been going out with? Derek?"

Nick nodded.

How wouldn't he know? You had met Derek on a night out a few months ago and you hit it off well. You looked so happy, immediately rushing to tell Jess and Cece about the date you had set for later that week. Nick remembered watching from behind the bar, wanting to be the one you talked about that way so badly.

You slowly circled the rim of your bottle with the pad of your finger.

"I broke up with him."

"You did?"

"Yeah. You know how people talk about, like, toxic relationships all the time? That's what it was. He wasn't good for me, and Cece had tried to warn me. But I didn't listen... I never listen."

"Hey..." Nick started, trying to find the right words. "You did what you had to. It's hard losing someone but you don't wanna get caught in a cycle that constantly hurts you. Trust me, I've been there. You did what was best for you."

"I know I did, but... it hurts, you know?" You looked up at Nick and he nodded in understanding.

His heart broke seeing the look on your face. He thought for a moment before asking, "Do you have your own Dirty Dancing, or something like that?"

You knew exactly what he was asking. Ever since you've known Jess, she'd watch Dirty Dancing after a breakup. It made her feel worse and better at times, but no matter what it let her get everything out.

"Something like that, yeah." You smiled.

Nick grabbed the TV remote off the back of the couch and held it out to you.

"Oh, no, it's okay. You wouldn't like it."

Nick merely shrugged and gestured towards the remote again. "Eh, put it on anyways," he urged you.

You gave in and searched for the movie of your choice, Nick going back to the kitchen because he insisted on making popcorn before it started. He also grabbed a few more beers.

You enjoyed sitting there with Nick, sharing snacks and listening to his commentary on one of your favorite movies. He'd make fun of the movie sometimes but you could tell it held his interest.

Even when Schmidt came home and started making fun of him, he intermediately told Nick to shut up. He wasn't bothered being seen watching a movie like this.

Halfway through, though, you heard your phone buzz. You glanced at it, wondering if maybe Jess or Cece were texting you. You hadn't realized how much time had passed since you first arrived...

"For fuck's sake," you mumbled to yourself.

"What happened?" Nick asked, his eyes flicking towards you rather than the screen in front of him.

You handed Nick your phone.

New Messages! Derek Leaving me is the worst decision you've ever made You're a fucking idiot if you think you're better off without me Fuck you I hope you die in a car wreck, you bitch

"It's been messages like this everyday for the last, like... 3 days," you explained.

Rage clouded Nick's mind as he scrolled up to see the, even worse, messages from the days prior. How could such vile things be said to someone like you?

Nick stood up from the couch quickly and made his way towards the door.

"Wait- What are you doing?"

"I'm gonna call him," Nick said furiously.

“Nick, c'mon. I'll just block him, it’s really not that serious—”

“No, but it is! It’s exactly that serious! He doesn't get to call you an idiot! That’s reserved for me only, damn it.” He exploded, focusing on the lighter part of the message. He didn't know what he'd do if he let the worse parts linger in his mind.

You couldn't say anything as he had already hit the call button on Derek's contact. Before stepping out into the hallway, he told you to pause the movie, making you smile despite everything else going on.

The door muffled the words leaving Nick's mouth, but you could hear his tone. He was completely enraged.

He came back in a few moments later, a proud smile on his face. "Well, that's taken care of," he said as he handed your phone back to you.

You blocked Derek's number and tossed your phone to the side.

"Thank you, Nick," you said sincerely.

"No problem, no one should talk to you like that. If he tries anything, you tell me."

You nodded at his words. No one had ever really stood up for you like that...

You pressed play on the remote and leaned against him.

Jess finally came home about 5 minutes from the end of the movie. She noticed you and Nick on the couch and her gaze shifted to the TV. She looked back at you.

"Oh, (Y/n)... I'm so sorry," she said, her face dropping.

"It's okay, I'm... okay. Let me finish this and we'll talk, yeah?" You asked. Jess nodded with a sad smile, and made her way to her room.

As the movie ended, you looked at Nick. "Well?" you asked expectantly.

He tried to hold in his smile as he shrugged and said, "It wasn't that bad, I guess."

You helped him gather the empty beer bottles and he told you to go talk to Jess after.

You wrapped your arms around him tightly, taking him by surprise. He paused for a moment before doing the same.

"Thank you, Nick." You looked up at him. "For everything."

He smiled down at you. "You don't have to thank me, (Y/n). You know I'm here."

"I know," You said. You leaned up and quickly kissed his cheek before leaving the embrace and rushing into Jess' room.

She immediately patted the spot on her bed next to her, urging you to talk about what happened.

"Well, let's start with the most recent thing first," You started, looking down with a soft smile. "That crush on Nick isn't going away anytime soon..."

[estellan0vella]

Love In Print│Bang Chan

Chapter Two: Run All Of Them Over SS: 10 (ignore time stamps and dates) Word Count: 1.68K Content Warnings: talks about killing, talks about suicide (as a cover for murder)

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The shisha bar is cloaked in a hazy glow, the soft flicker of candles on low tables casting shadows that dance against the dark red walls. The faint hum of conversation weaves with the muted bassline of a lo-fi track playing overhead, creating an atmosphere of lazy decadence. 

Ayame sinks into the plush cushions of their usual corner booth, the silver fabric of her mini dress shimmering faintly in the dim light. Her black coat hangs off her shoulders like an afterthought, more an accessory than a layer of warmth. One silver stiletto dangles precariously from her toes as she leans forward, fingers delicately wrapped around the shisha hose. She inhales deeply, the sweet, fruity smoke swirling into her lungs before she exhales, a lazy plume curling in front of her like a spell.

Minho sits beside her, whiskey in hand, his tie already hanging loose like he's resigned himself to the night. His black dress shirt is unbuttoned at the collar, and he twirls the glass in his fingers with a kind of careless grace.

Across from him, Seungmin looks impossibly composed as always as he nurses a glass of soju, his sharp eyes scanning the room like he's searching for an escape route. Hyunjin sprawls dramatically in the far corner of the booth, one arm slung over the backrest as he exhales a cloud of smoke with the flair of someone auditioning for a noir film.

The silence stretches comfortably between them until Minho sighs loudly, breaking it like a brick through glass. "This fucking merger," he groans, dragging a hand down his face. "Worst corporate decision ever. Like, ever. Worse than that thing in New York in the thirties."

Seungmin doesn't even glance up, lifting his glass halfway to his lips. "The Wall Street crash?"

Minho waves a hand dismissively. "Yeah. That."

Hyunjin tilts his head back, staring at the ceiling like he's pondering the weight of the universe. "So, Ayame," he begins, dragging the words out like a challenge. "How's it going in the main battlefield?"

She groans, setting the hose back into its holder. "Two years. Two fucking years of that man riding my ass about everything. My desk, my handwriting, the way I breathe too loudly in meetings. 'Ayame, your desk is a fire hazard.' 'Ayame, how do you even find anything in this mess?' Like, dude, my chaos isn't hurting you! Get off my fucking back."

Minho groans, rubbing his temples like he's already developing a migraine. "Please. I'm begging you, no fights this week. I'm still working through the last six complaints HR got about the two of you."

Ayame grins, nudging him playfully with her shoulder. "I am your job security, Oppa."

Minho sighs, letting his head fall back against the cushions. "You know what? You're absolutely fucking right. Carry on."

Ayame laughs, grabbing her drink and taking a sip. "Maybe we should just run him over with a car. Slowly. Painfully. I think it'd be beautiful."

Hyunjin perks up, his eyes lighting with a dangerous glint. "Oh, fuck yes. Let's do it. Fuck it, let's run all of them over. Haechul, Chan, Changbin, Jisung, Jeongin. Every single one of those Miroh assholes."

Seungmin tilts his head thoughtfully, his expression calm despite the chaos in his voice. "Pushing Chan out of a window might be cleaner. No evidence, no mess. It's efficient."

Ayame taps her chin, pretending to consider it as she sets her drink down. "Hmm. I like it. They'd think corporate burnout suicide. Very believable."

Hyunjin picks up the shisha hose, gesturing wildly with it like it's a fucking scepter. "Tragic story. Thirty-something corporate man crumbles under the pressure of quarterly projections, tosses himself out of a window. People would eat that shit up."

Minho groans again, dragging his hands down his face in mock despair. "God. You're all fucking insane. I'm surrounded by literal psychopaths."

Ayame grins, leaning in to nudge him again. "You love us."

"Do I?" Minho deadpans, grabbing the shisha hose from Hyunjin with an exaggerated sigh. "Or am I just Stockholm Syndrome-ing my way through this dumpster fire of a life?"

Seungmin smirks, lifting his soju glass in a mock toast. "To Stockholm Syndrome, then."

Hyunjin snorts, stealing Minho's whiskey while he's distracted. "Honestly, it's probably the only thing holding us together."

Minho notices a beat too late, his eyes narrowing as Hyunjin takes a victorious sip. "You little shit."

Ayame laughs, leaning back into the cushions, the silver of her dress catching the light again as she shakes her head. "Honestly, Oppas, we'd make a fantastic true crime podcast. How to Murder Your Colleague Without Getting Caught. It'd go viral."

Seungmin raises a brow, his smirk sharp. "I'd subscribe."

Hyunjin grins, puffing on the shisha. "Dibs on narrating the audiobook."

Minho just groans again, tipping his head back against the cushions like he's praying for strength. "God, you're all so fucking exhausting."

Ayame rests her chin on her hand, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "And yet, here you are."

Minho waves the shisha hose at her. "Alright, so what's the fucking plan if Dementor Corporate Dicksucker actually gets that managing director position?"

Ayame exhales a plume of smoke, the edges of her silver mini dress catching the flicker of the candlelight as she leans back against the cushions. She doesn't rush her reply, sipping her drink leisurely before answering. "If he gets it, I resign. If I get it, he resigns. We made a deal."

The table falls completely silent, like she just announced she's running for president.

Minho stares at her, his whiskey glass halfway to his lips, jaw hanging slack. "You did what?!"

Ayame shrugs, entirely unfazed by his reaction. "That man is not going to be my boss. I'd rather fucking die."

Without a word, Minho's hand comes down hard on the back of her head. The sharp thwap echoes louder than it should, and Ayame yelps, clutching her head. "Ow! What the fuck?!"

"You absolute fucking pabo!" Minho snaps, his voice brimming with outrage. "This is exactly why you don't make decisions without talking to me first!"

Ayame rubs the back of her head, glaring at him. "I don't need your permission to make deals, Oppa!"

"No, but you need a fucking brain cell," Minho fires back, gesturing wildly, his whiskey sloshing dangerously close to the rim of his glass. "Do you have any idea what kind of shitstorm you've just dropped yourself into? Do you?"

She rolls her eyes, crossing her arms defiantly. "I'm not scared of him. I can handle it."

Minho stares at her like she's just claimed she can bench press a car. "Handle it?" He points at her with the kind of theatrical rage that belongs on a soap opera. "You can't even handle me right now, and I'm on your side, you dumbass!"

Ayame bursts into laughter, dodging as Minho reaches for her again. "Okay, okay! I'm sorry, Oppa, I'm sorry. Don't hit me again!"

"Too late!" Minho says, lunging at her. Ayame squeals, slipping out of the booth like a greased-up eel, her silver stilettos clicking against the wooden floor as she bolts for the door.

"I'm tiny! Have mercy!" she shouts over her shoulder, laughter bubbling uncontrollably as she pushes the door open and disappears into the night.

"You don't get to run after dropping a fucking bombshell!" Minho exclaims, scrambling to his feet and chasing after her.

Hyunjin exhales a slow stream of shisha smoke, leaning back lazily as he watches the scene unfold. "Every single time," he mutters, shaking his head with a grin. "And that's why we never let her make decisions."

Seungmin smirks, swirling his soju glass. "You say that every time, and yet, here we are."

Outside, the crisp night air stings Ayame's cheeks as she sprints down the block, her laughter echoing off the empty streets. Minho is hot on her heels, his tie flapping behind him as his dress shoes pound against the pavement.

"You are the reason I constantly have complaints on my desk!" he shouts, his voice carrying through the cool night air.

"I make your life exciting!" Ayame calls back, darting around a lamppost with a grin.

"You make my life a fucking nightmare!" Minho counters, his frustration nearly palpable. "I have to write HR paperwork because of you! Paperwork, Ayame! That's not exciting. It's fucking hell!"

"You love the complaints! Admit it, they make you laugh!" Ayame yells, skidding around another corner.

"Fine, I giggle at the reports!" Minho shouts, picking up speed. "But then I have to fucking deal with them! You little gremlin!"

Ayame doubles over against a lamppost, laughing so hard she can barely breathe. "You love me, remember? Levanter's Maknae? Your favorite?"

Minho finally catches up, chest heaving as he jabs a finger at her. "Maknae or not, you're going to kill me. Do you know how many forms I've had to fill out because of you? My hands have fucking calluses, Ayame. Actual goddamn calluses."

She grins at him, throwing her hands up in mock surrender. "I'll buy you hand cream."

Minho groans, running a hand through his hair as he glares at her, though there's no real venom behind it. "You are so lucky I actually like you."

"And you're lucky I'm fast," Ayame retorts, sticking her tongue out playfully before darting away again, her laughter trailing behind her.

Minho doesn't even bother chasing her this time, shaking his head as he watches her disappear down the block. "Fast," he mutters to himself. "Too fast for her own fucking good."

When he makes his way back to the shisha bar, Hyunjin and Seungmin are exactly where he left them, smirking like cats who've just caught a mouse.

"Feel better, Minho-hyung?" Hyunjin asks, a lazy grin spreading across his face as he exhales a curl of smoke.

Minho collapses into the booth, grabbing the shisha hose like it owes him money. "She's going to give me a fucking ulcer."

Seungmin lifts his glass in mock salute. "To ulcers, then."

Hyunjin chuckles, tipping Minho's whiskey glass toward him. "And to Maknaes who can outrun their Oppas."

Minho exhales sharply, blowing smoke into the air before leaning back with a groan. "You're all fucking insane."

Taglist: @fackeraccount @ot8girlfie @nightmarenyxx @reimaybeidk

@ismelllikechlorine247 @drewsandsebastianswife @my-neurodivergent-world

[cosmichorrorsarestillnicerthanme]

Tsukihime X Reader Incorrect Quotes

Kohaku: Who the FUCK is burning durning down my kitchen? You: Making breakfast for your wonderful girlfriend

You, to Arcueid: Let's play a little game called "Chill the Fuck Out" you're our first contestant.

You: Jellyfish have survived 600,000 years without a brain. Ciel: A ray of hope for Arcueid.

Akiha to you, Hisui, Kohaku, and Shiki: I wish I was stupid. You all seem so happy.

You: You are so petty. Noel: And conceited I thought you said pretty.

You: Stop right there. Bad luck is not brought on by silly superstitions like chain letters. Arcueid: You're right. They're brought on by black cats. Len, in her cat form: That is a hateful stereotype.

Noel: [ falls down a flight of stairs ] You: I hope you're okay. Ciel: Stop falling down the stairs. Mario: How'd the ground taste?

Arcueid to you: In another life, I would’ve loved to have done taxes and laundry with you.

Archetype Earth: You see me as a god, right? You: Absolutely. Archetype Earth: You'd kneel before me, wouldn't you? You: Boy, would I.

You: If a beautiful woman disagrees with me I will immediately change my views. I have no principles. Kohaku: Well maybe you should have principles. You: You're right, maybe I should.

You: Let's clear the air. Are there any more lies I should know about? Kohaku: Yes. You: Well? Kohaku: Well there's a bunch of things. But I'm gonna space them out so I won't look like such a bad person.

You: Listen, I'm gonna need you to swear. Hisui, with the conviction of someone who has been waiting years for this: FUCK You: … You: [ sharp inhale ] You: Swear as in promise.

Akiha: Hisui drives. You: Why?? Akhia: She's least likely to hit something just for fun. Kohaku: True.

Kohaku: Let's not talk about my problematic past, but about my problematic future.

You, staring at a tea pot: How do you think it tastes? Akiha: Like tea. You: Yes. But is it floral? Bitter? Mildly sweet with notes of buttery- Akiha: Warm. And wet.

Arcueid: We've been through so much together, haven't we? You: Yeah. And most of it was your fault.

You: If you got arrested what would the charges be? Ciel: Theft. Arcueid: Disturbing the peace. Hisui: Aggravated assault. Akhia: Arson. Kohaku: All of the above, in that order probably.

You to Akhia: She's in the kitchen again… Hisui, reading a recipe: 'beat three eggs.' In what? Hand to hand combat? Kohaku: Hisui, my beloved sister. Get out before I hit you with a cast iron pan.

Kohaku, trying to get Akhia out of bed: Don't make me get the water bucket. Akiha, half asleep: You wouldn't. You and Hisui, soaking wet: Yes, she would.

Shiki: Can I be frank with you guys? You: Sure, but I don't see how changing your name is gonna help. Kohaku: Can I still be me? Akhia, smirking cruelly: Shh, let Frank speak.

Kohaku: I FIXED IT! You: What did you fix? Kohaku: EVERYTHING! [ loud explosion in the background ] Kohaku: … except that.

Shiki: I know you're shy. That's okay. I know the perfect way to get them to notice you. Akhia: How? Shiki, yelling across the room: YO!!!

Akhia: Where are you going? Hisui: Kohaku told me instead of being sad I should "go get it, girl." So I'm going to "go get it, girl." Akhia: Get what? Hisui: Unclear. I'll get everything, just to be safe.

Kohaku: How do you keep an idiot waiting? Akhia: I don't know, how? Kohaku: I'll tell you later, Akhia: Okay… [ 30 minutes later ] Akhia: Wait a damn second.

You: Akhia and I were just walking across the street, and this guy drove by and honked at us. Shiki: What did Akhia do? You: She chased him to the next red light then reached into his window and- Akhia, walks in holding a steering wheel: Who wants a steering wheel?

You: Do you think before you speak? Arcueid: I mean yeah, I think "hey that's funny" and then I say it.

Ciel: Nothing's never happening to me. Never. You: I know. I'm- Ciel, you phrased that so weird. Ciel: I may have a concussion.

White Len: I am what they call a conflict escalator. A trained specialist in escalating even the most minor disagreements to the brink of all out violence.

You: Aren't you afraid you might be- I don't know- incurring God's wrath? Arcueid: Eh, God's cool. Ciel: See, I don't know that he is.

Akhia, Half Delirious From overwork: It's okay to keep secrets, everybody has some skeletons in the closet. Wraiths in the attic. Ghosts in the bedroom. Mummy in the kitchen. Enchanted armor on the stairs. Slimes in the basement. Maybe a giant spider in the backyard. Beholder or two in the garage. Vampires are also in the closet. Akhia, slumping down into her chair while putting her head in her hands: My house is very unsafe.

Kohaku: Date someone who loves you totally. Ciel: Date someone who disregards your Cracker Barrel arson charge. Arcueid: Date someone who was your accomplice in the Cracker Barrel arson.

[bitterkarella]

Midnight Pals: Fat People

James H Longmore: after yesterday's incident, I'd like to offer a full and complete apology to the humorless scolds of the woke mob Franz Kafka: Kafka: well, good Kafka: see that it doesn't happen again!

Longmore: look, this story about joe's unwanted penis is just a light-hearted comedic jaunt! Kafka: booo! Longmore: [wiping sweat from brow] jeez tough crowd Longmore: better switch gears Longmore: hey how about a story about gross fatties?

Longmore: i have another story too Longmore: it's a terrifying descent into the depraved world of feederism Longmore: cuz there's nothing scarier Longmore: than a fat person Longmore: steve knows what i'm talking about Stephen King: he's right!

Poe: wow, these stories are kinda problematic! Poe: you're really kinda othering to trans and fat people Longmore: well, i am originally English Poe: oh yeah ok, that scans

Longmore: there's this guy called… the feeder Longmore: and they call him that because he Longmore: get ready for it Longmore: feeds people King: oh shit! oh wow! that is terrifying! King: i thought i was prepared but i was not prepared

King: i think King: i think i need to sit down for a minute Poe: are you going to be ok, steve? King: yeah, i'm King: yeah King: i just need a minute King: phew King: my heart is racing

Barker: how is this possible? Barker: Stephen king - master of the macabre! - scared of fat people! King: look, it's not that strange King: a lot of people are scared of fat people Barker: Barker: no i don't think that's true Barker: think this is a you thing, steve

King: well, think about it King: if you see a clown walking around outside of a circus, that would be pretty scary right? Barker: ok right King: now imagine if you saw a fat person walking around on the street, like it was normal or something-

King: it's just not healthy, you see King: that's why scientists invented the weight loss pill that makes you shit yourself to death from Meg Elison's story "Please Don't Invent the Weight Loss Pill that Makes You Shit Yourself to Death" Meg Elison: Elison: I am going to murder you

Longmore: so the feeder has a whole facility full of women that he feeds Longmore: until they gain weight Longmore: they're called gainers Longmore: stop me if i'm going too fast for you

Longmore: ok so imagine a fat woman Longmore: just the fattest woman ever Longmore: just so huge beyond belief, absolutely gargantuan Longmore: like the size of the entire planet Longmore: like 464 pounds King: holy shit guys this is the scariest story I've ever heard! King: i am legit shaking!

Longmore: so this guy is feeding a fat woman a stack of pizzas Longmore: and the pizzas are all Longmore: [falsetto voice] heeeey you should eat us! we're delicious! Longmore: [falsetto] we're pizza! look at us! we want to be eaten! Longmore: [falsetto] we're gonna be so sad if you don't eat us Dean Koontz: oh no i hope the pizza gets eaten!

Joe Koch: this sucks Koch: the pizza should speak in an Italian accent Barker: yes Poe: no don't say that joe!! Lovecraft: oh jesus Lovecraft: oh god Lovecraft: [sweats] oh jesus

Koch: the disc of cracked dough, crimson gore as red as god's menstrual flow, hissing fleshy tentacles of mozzarella, pale as the broken spirals of the universe, splayed open in a tattered furl of the anal fistulas of sundried tomatoes Poe: oh max you should like this, you like pizza Max Booth III: why does everyone keep saying that

[gummyfang]

For some reason I think jealous Anakin fucks you and breeds you, maybe being 'persuasive' (ahem, manipulative) about it. That scene where he was jealous and fought with Clovis? Hmm, delicious.

OHGHHH YES,,, NSFW under cut

Warnings for (slightly toxic) possessiveness, unprotected sex, slight mention of voyeurism, lotta (praising) dirty talk. Also dom Ani. Gender-neutral afab reader <3

That Anakin is a possessive man hardly needs to be mentioned. He is afraid to lose, especially those he holds dear. It causes him to downright crave control over everything in his life, and this craving extends to the loved ones he has not lost yet.

Yeah, cue the stinging jealousy he feels whenever another man is trying to make his moves on you. Anakin truly and deeply loves you, he really does, but in moments like that his possessiveness can cause him to objectify you a tad. He sees you as his. His to claim, and not for anybody else to lay their dirty fucking hands on.

Truth is, although Anakin would love to put handsy men in their place, he doesn't always have the liberty to do so. He will absolutely knock the teeth out of the helpless choking shithead who just made an inappropriate comment in an abandoned alleyway, but in crowded spaces? He can't really get away with it. It drives him crazy. His urges to claim you on the spot are difficult for him to suppress.

Ani can improvise though. He'll gladly claim you in other ways.

He will lean in over your shoulder, seemingly moving in to kiss you on your cheek but leaning down further to wetly place his lips against your neck, muttering about how it's time to get back to your place. Whoever you were talking to will get the hint when he glares up darkly at them, a quiet warning to leave what is his alone or suffer the consequences.

When you get back he wastes no time marking you up, desperately teething at the skin on your neck and collarbone to decorate it with red marks.

"You look so good tonight." he breathes between desperate kisses.

"So fucking good. Maker, what am I going to do with you?"

A deeper growl is laced into the tone of what almost sounds like desperate worship he takes on for you in the bedroom, a hint of the jealousy still stirring a poisonous fire in his gut.

He pushes you to the bed and wastes no time getting you out of your clothes, quickly moving on to get himself out of his as well.

"They can't appreciate you like I can."

His words are sharp and venomous as he pushes himself into you with one rough movement, pelvis pressed harshly against you. He gives you some time to adjust to him, he'd never go out of his way to make things painful for you. But the second you catch your breath, the thrusts he delivers are fast and harsh.

"They don't get to see you like this. They don't deserve to."

A grin tugs at the corner of his lips as he sees your face contort, his cock pounding into you relentlessly. It's like you were fucking made for him.

He pulls out of you abruptly, leaving some of your slick to trickle down out of your fluttering pussy.

Before you can so much as whine, both your legs are hoisted up over his shoulders, before he's back inside and pounding into you with newfound vigor.

"You don't need to go back to that filthy place." Anakin groans loudly, his own claiming words and your acceptance of them making his cock twitch harshly.

The pads of his fingers trail over your body, pressing down roughly to leave reddened stripes in your skin.

"I'm all you need, right? Th... This is... Maker, look at you, you're gorgeous like this. Only for me..."

As he continues to fuck himself into you deeply, he pants and mutters incoherent promises of making you his, filling you up. The overwhelming pleasure clouds his judgment and train of thought.

Anakin keeps plunging himself into you, angling himself until you cry out. He can't be bothered about the fact that passerby on the streets below could hear you. If anything, that turns him on even more.

Before you know it, his hips stutter, cursing as he cums inside. His hands keep your hips down, ensuring you take it all deeply. He keeps his cock plugged deeply inside as he lazily kisses up your jaw, humming soft praise about how well you did, how you're his.

And despite your promises you'll find another bar to frequent, you know damn well that regardless of location this will happen again if you are approached by someone else.

[toomuchracket]

Having had flatmate matty help her pick out clothes now I can't help but think about him having to give his honest opinion on what she should wear on a date, watching her head out the door in his fave outfit 😔

this is genius but also evil as fuck. my god. him coming back from tour desperate to see you and hold you and just be with you (if he had any sense, though, he'd tell you how he really feels. but alas), and tbf you have a couple of days of that... before you tentatively come into his room one friday morning with two outfits in your arms like "please help me pick between these. i need to know which you like better", and he obliges, of course, and then asks "what for, darling?" and is SHATTERED when your face lights up and you say "well, finally, after what seems like an age of only hookups... i've been asked out on a date". he can't speak because he's so upset, which you seem to take as bewilderment; your face falls a bit and you murmur "well, i didn't think me being asked out would be so shocking that it leaves you speechless, matty. didn't think it was such an impossible notion, but whatever", and he has to force himself to be like "no, it's good, darling - great. sorry. s'pose i'm still jet lagged, brain isn't working right. but yeah, it's... good" because he absolutely doesn't want to upset you, and you perk up a bit like "oh. thanks. um, i know we usually have dinner together on fridays, but i obviously won't be here for that. don't really know if i'll be home at all, i really am not sure, but yeah. feel free to like. have people over. not that you need my permission, but... the flat will be free. just don't let anyone in my room or anything". matty just nods, and gives you a thumbs up, and tries his best not to cry while you're getting ready, and hugs you goodbye with a "you look beautiful. really" when you ask him if you look alright (very amylaurie, you know the vibes), and he DOES scroll through his contacts with the intention of maybe texting an old hookup to come over as distraction, but honestly the thought of that and the thought of you being romanced by someone and sleeping with them just makes him feel sick - instead, he just sticks on some midwest emo and goes to bed and cries himself to a really early night's sleep. it's fitful, though, and he's awoken just before 10pm by you texting "hey. not really having a good time so i'm on the bus home. don't do the bottom lock pls x"; naturally, he perks up with an enthusiasm that sickens him, and texts back like "alright. just me here btw. i would've picked u up, yk x" before wandering into the living room and faffing about with an acoustic while he waits for you to come home. despite his relief that the date didn't go well, his heart breaks at how dejected you look when you shuffle into the room and tell him about how boring a time you had, but it heals at the way you automatically curl into him as you talk and then say "wish i'd just stayed here with you, matty. i like it best". because yeah sure you went on the date but it's HIM you wish you were doing that with, him you want to be romanced by and hold hands with in the street and kiss at red lights and whatnot. that's why you haven't worn the outfit he liked best when you went shopping, didn't even consider it for tonight even though it's your favourite and would've looked great - you only want to wear that one if it's on a date with him. nobody else. god, the two of you... stupid little idiot babies <3

[star-quill]

Can you may-haps do one with Quill with a corruption kink🫣 (I just feel like it’s something he’d have)

oh yes he definitely does.

you moved away to a different state for college, hoping to maybe find a boyfriend, settle down and get a good job—and you got none of those things. you did kiss a few guys at parties but it never really went any further. didn't get the job you wanted either, so now you're back living with your parents, which isn't really helping your "find a boyfriend" case.

that's when you spot him. he's out in the driveway talking to your dad, arms folded over his chest as he laughs and throws his head back at something your dad said. you don't know who be is, perhaps a new neighbour you assume.

"who was that?"

"peter, he lives across the road.. just moved back in from being away for a while."

peter. it kinda suits him. and you kinda wanna get to know him more. so you decide to bake cookies and take them over to his, or rather, his grandpa's place. he answered the door with a smile, grinning even more when he saw the baked goods.

"those for us?"

"yeah! i studied culinary arts in college and well, you're new to the neighbourhood so thought i'd put my skills to use and be a good neighbour.."

oh you were so cute. he leaned against the doorframe with his forearm, grabbing a cookie with his other hand and taking a bite.

"oh my god.. these are fuckin' delicious.. here bring them in, my grandpa's out the back.." he stood back from the doorway, letting you in and following you through to the back door, opening it to let you out. he looked you up and down as you walked out, his mind just racing with the absolute filthiest thoughts about you.

once his grandpa took one, you came back inside and left him the tray of cookies in the kitchen, before walking back out his house. you waved at him from across the street and he shut his front door after you went back inside your own house. oh he was done for.

the next week, your parents hosted a mini barbecue, just for family that were visiting but you absolutely begged them to invite peter and his grandpa. which was now how you were sat by the edge of your pool, legs dangling in the water while you ate a strawberry popsicle. peter was sat next to you, his hands leaning back behind him on the ground.

he had to suppress every single thought in his mind as he caught sight of you sucking on the popsicle, your lips turning a dark shade of red. he had to say something or else he'd go insane.

"you think i don't know what you're doing?"

"hm?" you turned to him, popsicle still between your lips as you gazed up at him slightly, with absolutely no clue what he's on about.

"oh c'mon.. so you didn't deliberately sit beside me with that thing and eat it the way you're eating it?"

"no.. am i eating it wrong?"

"no, no.. just.. forget it.." he got up and walked away, grabbing a beer from the ice box and heading inside, chucking the cap into the bin before taking a sip.

"i want you to explain to me what you thought i was doing.." he jumped, turning around to see you standing there, your popsicle gone and your lips still dark red.

"don't think i should.. go back outside.."

"no, i want to know, peter.." you moved around the island now, standing next to him. god, if you weren't standing next to a floor to ceiling window, he'd bend you right over the counter and take you right there.

"you really wanna know?"

"yes."

"thought you were deliberately sucking on that popsicle, trying to get my dick hard.. thought you were imagining things, like pretending that popsicle was my dick.. but judging by that gasp, you don't know what the fuck i'm on about.."

"oh.. well uhm.. was i doing it right?"

"doing what right?"

"the way i was uhm.. sucking on the popsicle, was i doing it right?"

he just looked at you, his eyebrows furrowing as he tilted his head slightly.

"you never sucked a dick before?" you shook your head.

"you ever kissed anyone?" this time you nodded.

"well that's one thing i don't have to teach you.."

and you couldn't say no to that. so now you were on your knees in front of him as he sat on the edge of your bed. his hand fisted in your hair as you tried to take him all in your mouth. he was big but it felt so good. tears pricked at the corners of your eyes as you looked up at him, watching as his eyes screwed shut and he groaned out, the noises he was making were absolutely obscene.

he pulled you off him, his hand cupping your chin as you placed your hands on his knees. he tilted his head again, ever so slightly, almost like he was figuring you out, or figuring out what to do next. you just whimpered at the words that left his mouth next.

"y'wanna know something.. the day you came over with those cookies.. i thought you were so cute. in that pretty little flowery sundress.. wanted to just bend you over the kitchen counter, fill you up and watch you squirm.. you'd make a good lil' slut, don't you think? all for me?"

"mmhm.."

he didn't technically become your boyfriend, partly because you think your parents would kill you if they found out. but you did go over to his place occasionally, waiting until he was alone so you could be as loud as he wanted you to be. the first time he had sex with you, he was gentle but you begged him for more.

"you used to be so innocent, baby.. what happened, hm? this dick got you all messed up, huh.."

"mmf.. please.. need more.. please.."

you were on your stomach, spread out in front of him on your bed, your hips lifted up so he can fuck into you, grinding against you whenever he filled you up all the way. all you wanted was a boyfriend, a cute boyfriend to send you flowers, or kiss you softly whenever he had to leave—and instead you got the man across the street to dick you down whenever your parents went to the grocery store. then you became hooked, touching yourself at night and thinking of him, thinking of the next night you'd get to see him and he could give you your fix. he was like a drug, he made you feel so good and you were addicted.

weeks ago you wouldn't even think about touching yourself over anyone, and now you're whimpering, making yourself come while you whine out his name, wishing he was here beside you to fill you up. he had you wrapped around his finger and you knew whenever he called, you'd come running, ready to drop to your knees or spread yourself out for him. and he'd call you his "good girl", tell you you were doing so good, how pretty you looked all wet for him, and only him.

but still, at times you'd play the innocent card, knowing it riled him up. the sun was hitting the front of your house just right, so you dragged the sun lounger from your garage and sat it in your front garden. laying down, you made sure peter was home, noticing him walk through his house. it wasn't long before he caught sight of you and came over.

"gettin' a tan?"

"mmhm.. ur welcome to join me if you want.."

and that he did, until the sun moved and you both went round the back of your house. he moved his lounger right next to yours and ran his hand over your leg.

"peter.."

"hm?"

you didn't say anything else, just let him slide his hand under your bikini bottom, two fingers slipping through your folds before he plunged them inside you. your hands grabbed at his wrist, squeezing your thighs around his arm, whining and squirming on the lounger. he said nothing as he added another finger and you felt tears in your eyes as you came, legs shaking. he pulled his fingers out and you clawed at his hand to take them in your mouth, licking them clean.

"always gotta have somethin' in your mouth, baby.."

oh he really had you hooked. you were both absolutely head over heels obsessed with each other. and you wouldn't want it any other way when he always makes you feel this good.

[whocaresifwearecrazy]

Soooooooooo, the past week, I've been in a phase known as the Revisiting the Doodlebops Phase™

So, for the heck of it, have some Incorrect Quotes

*trying to order a birthday cake for DeeDee*

Baker: What do you want your cake to say? Moe: ??? Hey Rooney, do we want a talking cake?

~~~

Rooney: I’m the smartest, wisest person in this group. Moe: Really? Then why is your hand stuck in a vending machine? Rooney: I paid for my Mars Bar, I’m getting my Mars Bar.

~~~

Moe: Guess who just found out the difference between wax paper and parchment paper the hard way? Rooney: Wait, what’s the difference? Moe: One you can use in the oven safely, and the other you can also use in the oven... if the thing you are trying to make happens to be fire.

~~~

DeeDee, talking to Rooney: Well Rooney, whenever I’m about to do something, I think ‘would Moe do that?’ and if he would, I do not do that thing. Rooney: … Moe, from the distance: She's not wrong though!

~~~

DeeDee: Wow, great work on the Halloween decorations. Where did you get the fake skeletons? Moe: Fake?

~~~

DeeDee: Moe, I am questioning your sanity... Rooney: I never questioned it, I knew his sanity was missing from the start.

~~~

DeeDee: I’m so excited! Moe: We’re gonna have the best costumes, get the most candy... DeeDee: And have the biggest stomach aches ever! Moe: Yeah!

~~~

Rooney: Moe has never seen Star Wars? DeeDee, the only people in the universe who haven’t seen Star Wars are the characters in Star Wars and that’s cause they lived them, DeeDee! That’s cause they lived the Star Wars!

~~~

Moe: I will beat all of you in Rock, Paper, Scissors. You go first. Rooney: Rock. Moe: Paper.

~~~

*Moe's hyper...VERY hyper*

Rooney: Please say words of encouragement to me so I don’t murder someone right now. DeeDee: There are no books in prison. Rooney: *sighs* Thank you.

~~~

Moe, throwing a Pokéball at Rooney: Rooney, I choose you! Rooney, not looking up from his book and catching it: You need an Ultra ball to catch this Legendary Pokémon.

~~~

DeeDee: I think I need a hug... Moe: Good thing I'm hug shaped! *45 minutes later* DeeDee: You... you can let go now. Moe: No, I absolutely cannot.

~~~

Rooney: So when are we gonna tell him? DeeDee: Just give him a minute. Moe: *Pulling on a door that clearly says push.*

~~~

Rooney: Not to be nsfw but I want someone to hold me while I sleep.

~~~

Moe: When I get Doordash I order 20 Cheeseburgers at a time and heat them up throughout the week so that I don’t have to pay the delivery fee multiple times. Rooney: I hope you understand how food poisoning works. Moe: I hope food poisoning understands how I work. I never met a burger I couldn’t eat.

~~~

DeeDee, handing out popsicles: Which flavor do you want? Rooney: Blue flavor! DeeDee: Uh, you mean Blue Raspberry? Rooney: Blue flavor! Blue flavor! DeeDee: Blue is not a flavor! Rooney: BLUE FLAVOR!

~~~

Rooney: Hey I just got a pet snake. What should I name him? DeeDee: A pet WHAT?! Moe: William Snakespeare.

~~~

Moe: I'm very scary. Rooney: You're about as scary as a wet kitten. Moe: Wet kittens are cute, at least I've got that going for me. Rooney: And small. Moe: Moe: ...Yeah, yeah. I guess.

~~~

DeeDee: Moe and I were crossing the street, and this man drove by and honked at us. Rooney: What did you do? DeeDee: Moe chased him to the next red light, and reached into his window, and- Moe: *walking in* Who wants a steering wheel?

~~~

Rooney: State your name, rank, and intention. Moe: Moe, Moe, fun.

[leonenjoyer69]

*Inbox Invasion* Free ramble card!! Make it a long one, About literally anything, anything at all, can even switch topics constantly. This is literally just for fun.

LGOWKFLEKVK LET'S GOOO 🗣️🗣️

Okay so, starting off strong, let's go music. Will Wood and the Tapeworms, right? A few weeks ago I listened to both versions of every song twice to find which versions I liked better for when I eventually burned CDs (my car is old af, bbg ain't even got an aux, but also her ass ain't got an engine rn 💀) for the albums.

My verdict for Self-Ish? Literally all the songs are the exact same, except Self-, -Ish (which just sound a wee bit different), and Dr Sunshine is dead (which just has a longer outro in the original).

EVERYTHING IS A LOT THO? Some big differences in some songs. So here's my preferences:

6 up 5 oh- Remaster, the "oh how I know how I go.." Part just sounds better to me

(Bones)- Remaster, the radio/tv talk at the end isn't glitchy and stuff, like the OG

Front Street- Original, I like the snaps (tapping?) Behind the pre-chorus, along with the dialogue clip. But, also, I like how much clearer everything is in the remaster, so I'm kinda torn.

¡Akiado!- Original, I am,,,, not a fan of the extra end part in the remaster

White knuckle Jerk- Original. The background(?) Voices are quieter and sound kinda different. Idk I may be wrong about that tho.

Cover this song- Original. I hate hate HATE Batman will wood growling in my ear, please never make me listen to that version again, it was a genuine jump scare. (EDIT: THE REMASTER JUST PLAYED ON MY SPOTIFY AND??? HE'S NOT BATMAN ANYMORE??? IS MY SPOTIFY BROKEN?? PLZ IK I'M NOT CRAZY)

Thermodynamic Lawyer- Remaster. Not really a fan of the robot voice in the original.

Red Moon- original, his voice seems quieter or more drowned out in the remaster.

Lysergide Daydream- Original, don't remember why, so vibes ig lmao, there's not really a difference between the two

The First Step- Remaster, I think it just sounds a little clearer

Jimmy Mushrooms- either, they're literally the same lmao

Chemical Overreaction- original. WE CAN'T STOP HERE, THIS IS BAT COUNTRY 🗣️🗣️ need I say more?

Everything is a lot- Remaster, so then I don't have to listen to construction noises (or destroy to enjoy in general) 😋��

So yeah, ig that's my dream Everything is A Lot album.

BUT NOW!! more music! But Chonny Jash this time!! Specifically the Ballad of Dr Jekyll and Bargaining/compromise.

First of all, I love the lyrical differences!! Ballad Jekyll leaning more towards blaming Hyde for everything and being way more self-pitying, while B/G Jekyll seems to have more of a subdued acceptance? Like, Ballad Jekyll is a lot more emotional and bitter, while B/C seems to take more of the responsibility. Also!! I like how in B/C Jekyll seems to be with someone else, while Ballad Jekyll seems to be alone. The contrast between the last lines ("but if it takes Mr Hyde with me, then I'm glad to hang" V.S. "so take my hand, hold it till the end") really does show that bitter self destructiveness vs that sad, duty-driven acceptance. AND LIKE UGHHH JUST THE LYRICS OF B/C IN GENERAL!! I LOVE IT SO MUCH!!

Also, the Mr Hyde Jive? I love Hyde being a silly fellow. Literally just being like "damn, I'm not the villain, smh, lemme go have some fun for you gayboy 🗣️🗣️ (might still ruin lives tho!! I am vice, teehee)"

Yk what? Fuck it, this whole ramble will be music. THE JEKYLL AND HYDE MUSICAL 🗣️🗣️🗣️ I love Anthony Warlow so much, all the Jekyll or Hyde-centric songs are so eoughhhh ughhhhh AHHHH. Favorite songs rn? Board of Governors, His Work and Nothing More, The World Has Gone Insane, This is the Moment, Transformation--I JUST UGHHH I love listening to his screams idk man. also Alive. I also love you, Gabriel John Utterson. His parts are so fun to sing.

BUT!! the absolute hold Board of Governors has on me is insane. Every time I hear the intro begin to play through my tv I look up. I'm literally pavlov dogged to that shit. It's basically a requirement for me to go "THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF ST JUDE'S HOSPITAL IS NOW IN SESSION!" every time it plays. I love sassy Jekyll and Stride, it's so funny, like yes!!! The girls are fighting!! The absolute sass of half that cast is crazy. I have every part memorized, I AM the entire cast and recreate it expertly 🗣️🗣️

Anyways, yeah, I love Utterson too, his voice is in my range perfectly, he's literally my bbg. All his parts in How Can I Continue On and His Work and Nothing More? Kdoelvkskfldk I love him I love him. JEKYLL THO? shaking him aggressively (lovingly) I want to chew on him and rip him apart. Warlow's voice for him is so EOUGJDJDKKD ‼️‼️‼️

OKAY THAT'S ALL FOR NOW, TYSM FOR THIS!! ILY, LOYAL SCIENTIST 🗣️🗣️🗣️

[listening-to-thunder]

City Hunter 2024

Don't mind me I just watched a live action adaptation of the show I absolutely imprinted on as a little fan sprout in the late 80s/early 90s and I have feelings?! (Tl;dr - the adaptation is so faithful I am so happy.)

So yeah. I watched the (censored) French version of the City Hunter anime during summer vacations and then languished as Sweden did not have City Hunter (or anyone who had heard of City Hunter, other than my little brother). So I did stuff like...record it on VCR, pause the VCR, and trace character portraits off the prickly cathode-ray tube TV. (Screenshot technology has come a long way!)

Later on I read the entire un-censored manga (with the original names restored!) in French, and downloaded the Japanese songs from some pages I found on AltaVista (which took forever on modem), and brough the full set back in Japanese after I lived there for a while. And then I found out there is an official "megafan gets transmigrated into the story"-manga about City Hunter, and I read that, too.

Basically: I have had this story in my life forever, and watching the live action movie now gives me echoes of all those feelings I had as a lonely fannish kid. Which is a weird feeling, but not in a bad way, because the live action adaption (not the first, but the first Japanese one!) is...good? It's fun! And it's as faithful to the original story as it could possibly be while also being updated for the 21st century in the best ways?

Okay, I'm just gonna dive in!

I love how prominent Shinjuku is in the live action. It's gorgeously shot, and you can really feel a sense of place. The characters always talk about "this city", and Shinjuku is that city.

And right off the bat Suzuki Ryohei gets to shine in a fun, fast fight scene with a manga flair to it!

Everyone in Shinjuku knows Ryo-chan! And here's where I will admit to my own ignorance, because reading in translation at a young age I honestly don't know if the manga touched on how Shinjuku as a place where the queer community meets? But here the owner of the bar Ryo rushes through is a glorious okama!

Saeba Ryo and Makimura Hidekyuki and HI MY FEELS. (I will probably get back to how much I adore that Ryo is played by an actor who's hit 40 - but Andou Masanobu is nearly 50?! HOW.)

YES GOOD the iconic coat from the manga (that I like a lot more than the silly little anime jacket) running down the streets of Shinjuku as the equally iconic red car (an old Mini Cooper?) races past the neon lights.

Oh man I have cried about this scene so many times. And here I just love how they got the dramatic rain in, despite the circumstances and setting of Makimura's death being different. That's what a good adaptation does: keeps things recognizable to the existing fans, while transforming it to something new and exciting. (I almost didn't see it coming because I kept thinking "It's not raining"...!)

Not to be shallow or anything but...HOT DAMN. Suzuki Ryohei!!!!

This was so delightful! Everyone was having such fun with the Mokkori Dance, and I am thrilled that they found a way of showing this side of Saeba Ryo without making him a sex pest. The mood whiplash from drama to the most frivolous silliness is extremely City Hunter, and the movie wouldn't have felt right if they hadn't nailed this. (With Ryo nudity. I am. Not complaining at all.)

Kaori's stare. Ryo's confidence. Perfect. No notes.

And then we get some T&A... and it's QUEER AS FUCK?! Instead of a strip club, in 2024 the Shinjuku nightlife scene is beautiful people voguing with a fabulous drag queen MC!

Showing off Ryo's impossibly good aim by following the bullet through a crowded nightclub was fun but again: look at this Shinjuku!! It's queer and diverse and I love it.

I could not believe how Suzuki Ryohei somehow manages to move like a manga character? He is so fast and so believable as a supernaturally good shot! I also liked how Ryo hid his gun as soon as he'd fired it - the enemy had already spotted him, so it wasn't that he was afraid of giving himself away? But he doesn't want to have a gun out at a queer nightclub, where it could start a very understandable panic.

Again with the Shinjukuness of it all...! Ryo's car is parked outside the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (it was my favorite place to go hang out if I had time to kill in Shinjuku) - I think they're up in the observation deck, too?? The layers of nostalgia for me... it hits hard...

SPEAKING OF HITTING HARD I love that they gave Kaori her mallet!!! YES. (And they made up a cosplay event for it, where there was a tiny bit of T&A - but where the cosplayers themselves were making sure they looked as good as possible, showing off their assets!)

This is art to me.

Saeba Ryo. Stallion of Shinjuku. Blocking creepy otaku and audience alike from getting panty shots while not peeking under her skirt and also the horse head is his penis and...

This will take some processing. (While I giggle.)

THE most City Hunter shot of the entire movie. The crosshairs! Ryo shoving someone (Kaori) out of the way of a bullet! The bullet grazing his arm!! SHOOTING BACK AT THE SNIPER. Everything. Everything is perfect.

I am looking...respectfully...?

Their poses, the city... this whole scene felt like watching the manga come to life. Kaori needs a hug and Ryo hasn't gotten to the point where he can do "emotional support" in any other way than "revenge". Ahhhh the angst.

The movie's fights are so much fun to watch, because they have Ryo being a superhero with a gun (or: several guns), and then Kaori running around terrified but also so determined to actually fight. She shoves things on people! She hits that one guy with a pipe!! I love her so much.

IT'S THEM

FEELS ARE HAPPENING

(Ryo still doesn't do "hugging", but at least he's letting Kaori sob on him this time?)

Yes shooting a guy with an upside down revolver pointing behind you is exactly what I want from City Hunter, thank you! (Also the intensity Suzuki Ryohei brings out for Ryo's protective streak... It's so good...)

I just know that I am missing a ton of Easter eggs...! (I would be surprised if the framed drawing of a revolver isn't Hojo Tsukasa's art, though.)

And here we go! Now they're roommates! Kaori has her mallet! And her 80s manga outfit...! Aaah!!!!

Though they both wear shoes indoors which... I suppose even though they live there, the building isn't..."home"-coded? (I mean having that much real estate in the center of Shinjuku actually requires more suspension of disbelief than the gun magic...).

Anyway: it's THEM!

Sequel when? I really, really want one. They did such a fabulous job with this story, I want to see them do more!!

[gods-favorite-autistic]

I’m too deep into this fandom already

Incorrect Fantasy High:

Kristen: I turned out perfectly fine!

Tracker: Kristen, this morning you thought a ghost made your toast

Kristen: I DIDN’T PUT THE BREAD IN! YOU DIDN’T PUT THE BREAD IN!!!

~

Kristen: What do you think Fig will do for a distraction?

Adaine: She’ll probably, like, make a noise or throw a rock. That’s what I would do.

*Building explodes and several car alarms go off*

Adaine: ... or she could do that.

~

Fig: We need to get through this locked door. Fabian, give me your credit card.

Fabian: Here.

Fig, pocketing it: Thanks. Gorgug, kick down the door.

~

Cop: You’re receiving a ticket for having three people on one motorcycle.

Fabian: Shit.

Fig: Wait, three?

Cop: Yeah?

Adaine: OH MY GOD RIZ FELL OFF!!!

~

Fig: Riz isn’t answering his phone

Fabian: I’ll call

Fig: Adaine and I have both tried six times each, what makes you thi-

Riz: Hello?

~

Adaine: Dammit, Fig!

Fig: What?! It wasn’t me!

Adaine: Sorry, force of habit. Dammit, Fabian!

Fabian: Not me either.

Adaine: Oh...Then who set the house on fire?

Kristen: *whistles*

~

Fig: *Screams*

Fabian: *Screams louder to establish dominance*

Kristen: Should we do something?

Gorgug: No, I want to see who wins.

~

Riz: You saved me. I owe you my life.

Fabian: No thanks. I’ve seen it and I’m not very impressed.

~

Adaine: Please, I'm begging you go to a doctor.

Fig: I'm sorry is this OUR stab wound? Stay out of it.

~

Riz: You're my best friend, I would do anything for you.

Adaine: I want you to eat three meals a day and have a decent sleep schedule.

Riz: Absolutely not.

~

Fig: Ok, maybe playing ‘whose family is most dysfunctional’ wasn’t the best idea we’ve had. Adaine’s been crying in the bathroom for an hour. We can’t get her out...

~

Riz: You know, not every problem can be solved with a sword.

Fabian: That's why I carry two swords.

~

Kristen: I’d like to offer you moral support, but I have questionable morals.

~

Fig: I was born for politics. I have great hair and I love lying.

~

Gorgug: Physically, yes, I could fight a bird. But emotionally? Imagine the toll.

~

Tracker: So what’s for dinner?

Kristen, staring at the food she just burnt: Regret.

~

Adaine: What are your goals?

Gorgug: To pet all the dogs.

Adaine: No, fitness goals.

Gorgug: To be able to run fast enough to pet all the dogs.

~

Fig: *holding a bottle* Is this whiskey or perfume?

Riz: *chugs entire bottle*

Riz: It’s perfume.

~

Kristen: Lol heads up if you try to make a candle with food coloring, the food coloring will just sink to the bottom of the glass, and when the flame eventually reaches the bottom all the food coloring will catch fire and become one giant tall flame that you cannot possibly blow out and the glass will start to crack and then you'll throw your tea on it in a panic and then the extremely hot food coloring will boil and sizzle horribly and then the glass will shatter. Please take my word on this lmfao

Adaine: What did you do Kristen?

Kristen: A MISTAKE

~

*Fig and Kristen sitting in jail together*

Kristen: So who should we call?

Fig: I’d call Adaine, but I feel safer in jail

~

Adaine: Do you ever want to talk about your emotions, Fabian?

Fabian: … No.

Gorgug: I do!

Adaine: I know, Gorgug.

Gorgug: I’m sad!

Adaine: I know, Gorgug.

~

Kristen: Fig and I were crossing the street, and this dude drove by and honked at us

Adaine: *Sighing* What did Fig do?

Kristen: They chased him to the next red light, then reached into his window and...

Fig: Who wants a steering wheel?

~

Kristen: Are you sure this is the right direction?

Fig: Certainly, I'm as sure as I am honest!

Adaine: In that case, we're definitely lost.

~

Sandra Lynn: Jawbone and I are having a baby.

Adaine: That's gre-

Jawbone, slamming adoption papers on the table: It's you, sign here.

~

Adaine: Are we really going to let Fabian “keep” Riz?

Fig: We kept Gorgug.

~

Adaine: Poison is a magic transmutation potion that turns people into corpses.

Fabian: This knife is actually a magic wand.

Fig: Meet me in the Denny’s parking lot for a wizard duel.

Riz: *cocks gun* Magic missile.

Gilear: What the fuck is wrong with you people

~

Gorgug: You really put aside everything and came all this way for me? How did you even get here so fast?

Fabian: Several traffic violations.

Fig: Three counts of resisting arrest.

Adaine: Roughly thirteen cans of energy drinks.

Riz: Also, that’s not our car.

~

Fabian: We’ve been conducting an ongoing study to see what The Ball will and will not eat.

Fig: Grass? Yes!

Fabian: Moss? Yes!!

Fig: Leaves? Ohh, yes!

Fabian: Shoelaces? Strange but true!

Fig: Worms? Sometimes!

Fabian: Rocks? Usually nah.

Fig: Twigs? Usually!

Fabian: Kristen’s cooking? Inconclusive!

Adaine: How did you… test this?

Fig: You just hand him stuff and say ‘eat this’ and if he eats it, he eats it.

Adaine: ... I don’t know how to feel about this.

Gorgug: IS THAT WHERE ALL MY SPARE SHOELACES WENT?

~

Gorgug: Imagine if someone handed you a box full of all the items you have lost throughout your life

Adaine: Self-esteem, haven't seen you in years!

Riz: Oh wow, my childhood innocence! Thank you for finding this!

Kristen: I knew I lost that potential somewhere!

Fig: My moral code, is that you?

Gorgug:

Gorgug: I was just gonna show you this cool trunk my mom left me but do you guys need a hug?

[sticktopia]

Stickober Day 2: Likes Surprise

Dark groaned as she awoke, feeling absolutely exhausted for whatever reason. As she forced her body to sit up, she grabbed her phone to look at the time. 8:30 Am. Dark sighed as she caught a glimpse of the date; October 2nd.

“No wonder I'm so exhausted.” Dark grumbled as she placed her phone down. She hated her birthday. She hated that she was brought into this world by her selfish creator, merely wanting her to destroy her ex best friend. She hated what her existence meant to the world.

Suddenly, an arm wrapped around her waist. Dark’s mood lightened slightly as she chuckled, turning over to face the pastel yellow stick in the bed.

“Good morning Gemstone.” Dandi chuckled as she nuzzled Dark’s hair.

“Good morning Sunshine.” Dark chuckled as she kissed the taller stick. Dandi smiled as she looked at Dark, her baby blue eyes staring into Dark’s stormy grey ones. Dandi’s smile faltered a bit.

“What’s wrong?” Dandi asked as she gently caressed Dark’s face. Dark sighed and shook her head.

“It’s nothing, just a bit tired.” Dark replied as she sat up, Dandi following her movement.

“Then why not sleep more? It is still early.” Dandi suggested. Dark chuckled as she leaned on Dandi.

“I wish I could, but I have some things I need to do.” Dark said as she climbed out of bed. “I gotta go out to the city. So I'd prefer to get to where I need to be before everything gets wild.”

“Alright then.” Dandi chuckled as she moved some of her hair out of her face. “Will you at least be home for dinner?”

“Yeah I should be.” Dark chuckled as she went to prepare for the day ahead.

**********

Dark sighed as she walked through the busy streets. She wasn't all that fond of the city, but she needed to get some things to finish her project that needed to be done sooner than later.

Dark spent the next few hours looking for and shoplifting the things she needed. She knew she promised Dandi she’d stop doing that, but she was low on cash and didn't want to go back and ask her girlfriend for money.

“Thief!! Stop right there!!!” Dark jumped as she heard the store owner shout at her. Dark quickly turned and ran, making sure that her hood stayed on. The red hollowhead quickly got outta there, hiding in an alleyway. She panted softly as she slid back into the shadows. Looking at the loot she managed to snatch, she realized that she had about half her shopping list.

“Ah, not everything, but it should be good enough.” Dark hummed as she stepped out of the other end of the alley, bumping into someone.

“Ah! I’m so-” Dark paused as she saw a familiar Orange hollowhead standing in front of her. Her heart stopped as she came face to face with her ‘murderer’.

“Ah, no it’s o-” The kid froze as they saw Dark as well. The two hollowheads stayed frozen, both too afraid to move. Second then softly spoke.

“Um, D-dark… right…?” They squeaked out. Dark took a step back, body trembling. She could barely keep her feet underneath her.

“Wh-what’s it to you?” Dark kicked herself for stuttering. Second calmed down a bit and gave a small smile.

“Um, Ch-chosen talks about you a lot.” Dark stared at Second, her breath hitched in her throat.

“Come again?”

“Ch-chosen. Your friend, he talks about you a lot.” Second said. “He says that he misses-”

“Bullshit.” Dark scoffed as she looked away from the teen. “Chosen doesn't give a shit about me.”

“Why do you say that?” Second asked. Dark huffed.

“Would you still care about someone who tried to kill you?” Dark scoffed as she turned and began to leave.

“Uh, wait where are you-”

“Anywhere from here. Jack off kid. Let's just pretend we never saw each other.” Dark was walking away when Second spoke again.

“Dark, please wait.”

“No, I'm not going to. I have things to do kid.” Dark said as she exited the alley. Though, Second was stubborn, they weren't going to give up yet. They Followed the older hollowhead.

“Why are you following me.” Dark demands, still walking.

“Because, I think that you need a friend.” Second said. Dark scoffed.

“You're annoying as hell.”

“Well, no one should be alone on their birthday.” Dark paused and looked at the orange hollowhead.

“How-”

“Chosen said that today was your birthday. And, it’s kinda crazy because it’s also my birthday today.” They chuckled. Dark stared at Second.

“Your kidding.” Second shook his head.

“Nope. October 2nd is the day I was created.” Dark sighed and rubbed her temples.

“Of course that damn creator made an obedient goody two shoes pet the same day he made me.” Dark growls.

“I am standing right here.”

“And?”

“Ok, fair point. But still, I don't think you should be alone on your birthday.” Second said as he held the sleeve of Dark’s hoodie.

“As someone who’s never celebrated my birthday before, I don't really care to start.” Dark scoffs as she tries to pull her sleeve from Second, but they then grab her wrist. 

“Why not? Everyone deserves to be celebrated on the day they came to be.” Second said as they looked into Dark’s eyes. Dark stares back at Second, slightly annoyed. Eventually, she sighs and fully turns to the younger hollowhead.

“Fine. What do you want?” Dark scoffed. Second smiled and released Dark’s sleeve.

“Come on! I’ll show you what a real birthday’s like!” Second then spent the rest of the day showing Dark things that people do on their birthday. They took her to many food places, getting them free food and drinks. They then went to an arcade, where Dark showed off just how good she was at the games. Second was quite impressed by all the points that Dark managed to win. As they went to the prize counter, Second got some small trinkets for his friends while Dark got a cute mouse plushie.

“You're getting that?” Second asked with an arched brow. Dark scoffed.

“It’s not for me. It’s for the stick who saved me when you nearly killed me.” Dark said as she walked away. Sec froze as Dark said that.

What?! What do you mean I nearly killed you?!” Second asked as they followed after the red hollow.

“What? You don’t remember blasting me in the face with that… death ray that came out of your face?” Dark asked as she shoved the mouse into her backpack.

“N-No…? I-I don't know what you mean, I dont have powers.” Second said as they kept up with Dark. She huffed as she looked at him.

“You don't remember obliterating me through a mountain and destroying my life’s work?” Dark asks as she puts her hands on her hips.

“Ch-chosen said the same thing to me. But I really don't remember anything after… After you killed my friends…” Second mumbled as he rubbed his arm. Dark sighed.

“Just don’t blast me like that again. I don’t have time to be on the brink of death again.” Dark said as she turned and continued walking. Second quickly followed.

“Uh, sorry. I didn't mean to do… whatever I did.” Second said as they trailed slightly behind Dark. “Um, the mouse, you said it’s for the stick who… Saved you?”

“Yeah. She’s kinda stupid, but I like that about her.”

“That’s not very nice to say about the stick who ‘saved your life’.”

“Well, hell kid. I’m a terrorist and she literally doesn't know that. Somehow.”

“Let me guess, you have no intentions of ever telling her?”

“Why would I? That would just cause a bunch of drama that I don't want to deal with.”

“But wouldn't there be even MORE drama if she finds out she’s been housing a terrorist without knowing? I think you should tell her.”

“Fuck you and your ideology.”

“Thank you.” Dark scoffed and flicked Second’s forehead.

“Ow! Hey!” Second scoffed as they rubbed their forehead.

“Well kid, I'm off now.” Dark said as she looked at her phone. “Sunshine’s waiting for me.”

“Ah, alright.” Second said as they suddenly snatched Dark’s phone.

“The fuck-” Second then handed the phone back to Dark.

“That’s my number. If you wanna reconnect with Chosen at any point, just call me and I can help you out.” Sec said as they turned and left. Dark stared at the orange hollow before staring at the new contact in her phone. She scoffed and shoved the phone in her hoodie pocket.

“Ass.” Dark sighs as she walks away.

Follow Dark home Follow Second Home

[actuallykiwi]

The Dinner Party: Part 3

Tensions are high, and no one knows why. When push comes to shove, will you fall, or will you fly? (The Dinner Party is technically after the Auction, but time has a funny way of flowing sometimes...)

"-And before I forget, I have one more announcement. As many of you know, it's almost time for my end-of-term dinner party. Those who finished in the top ten percent of this class are invited. The list is posted outside. Don't make me regret hosting it again after last year's disaster. As a reminder, big-name people in the industry will also be there, so don't embarrass me this time. Dismissed."

Addison and I take our time gathering our stuff after Hunt's lecture while the rest scatter like flies. "What happened last year?" I ask. "Someone broke a priceless vase. Hunt got all worked up and started throwing people out," she nudges me, "...it was kind of hot." "Addison!" I punch her arm and she laughs. We're some of the last to get a glimpse at the bulletin board outside the classroom. I scan for my name on the invite list. "I'm invited!" I smile at Addison, equally beaming. "I am too! We can go together!"

We link arms as we begin to walk down the hallway together, other students excitedly chatting about the night. "So, this party's a big deal, huh?" "Only the biggest! It's the best time to see Hunt not in 'professor mode'." Addison explains. "Yeah, he'll be in 'host mode', which almost sounds just as intimidating..." I think for a moment, then laugh to myself. "Can you imagine? Hunt taking people's coats, making small talk, offering drinks and hors d'oeuvres-"

"Wrangling college students?" Hunt's voice suddenly appears from behind. I jump a little. "Professor! I was just-" "Please behave at this party, Anneka. Addison." He gives us both a glare before parting through us and walking away.

I sigh. "Aaaand he's back." Addison pats my back. "To our loving, cheerful professor. It was nice while it lasted." I stick my tongue out at her as we continue on our way.

******

The night of the party approaches faster than I thought. Addison digs through my closet, nitpicking at colors and trends. "You have to look absolutely perfect tonight, Annie. Professional, yet alluring. Adventurous, yet mature. Spontaneous, yet thoughtful." "Hot but not, got it." I tease from the bed. She rolls her eyes. "Come on! What do you want your outfit to make Hunt think of you? "I want to be a normal student and have a good time, not get wrapped up in a school girl crush that was never going to amount to anything anyways!" "Never say never~" She sings from behind my dresses. I groan and flop down onto my bed.

Eventually I settle with a dark indigo button down dress with a red belt and red pump heels. Addison has done my hair in a low bun with a braid knitting one side. She goes with a classic sundress with a jean jacket and her golden waves flowing freely.

Hunt's bachelor pad is a lovely, chic one-story house in a cozy neighborhood, right down the street from campus. His decor definitely matches his style; everything just says 'refined' and 'orderly'. In the foyer, a single mahogany table is nestled against the wall underneath a framed poster for his Audrey-winning film, "Ruin".

Hunt is in the living room, greeting guests and being as pleasant as ever. He spots Addison and I as we weave our way in. I politely wave to him. "Professor Hunt. Thank you for the invite! You have a lovely home." Something flashes in his eyes but is quickly replaced by a scowl. "Anneka. Addison." He all but scurries away. "W-... what was that all about?" I ask. "I don't know... something seems to have him on edge, though." Addison leads us to the kitchen, where we grab a drink. "After I talked to him about being cordial, too." I sigh into my punch.

We catch up with a few classmates and head out to the backyard. A pool lies untouched, whereas the makeshift poolside bar does not. We sit at one of the high-top tables. then Addison's eyes go wide as she looks past me. "It's Marianne Delacroix! I didn't know she'd be here!" "Your boss?" "Yeah! I guess it makes sense, though. She's pretty good friends with Hunt." I guess something in my expression makes her pause. "...But she also has a steady boyfriend, so I'm sure you have nothing to worry about!" "Huh? Worry about what?"

Addison waves her down and she exchanges greetings with her boss. Miss Marianne has Hunt in tow. She turns and notices me, a very tense Hunt trying to inch away from where he stands right next to me. "Oh, Thomas, is this one of your students?" "I am. I'm Anneka Sinclair, pleasure to meet you!" I shake her delicately manicured hand. "Sinclair?" She gestures to Addison. "No relation." We say in unison. "Ah, well, very nice to meet you as well! And Addison, always a pleasure-" "Anneka, don't have you have somewhere else to be?" Hunt says through gritted teeth. I blink at him. What is your problem? "What do you mean? We're at your party-"

"Thomas! No need to be so rude." Marianne shushes him. "Apologies, it's just that dinner will be served soon. Let's find our seats, Marianne." Hunt is basically bouncing on his feet to get moving before he whisks Marianne away. Addison gives my hand a squeeze before we leave to also find our seats.

Well, Hunt cared enough to make sure we got a seat inside. But from where we sit halfway down the table from him, he clearly didn't want us near him. And better yet, he sits us across from- "Bianca." Addison glares at the spray-tanned brunette now perched across from me. Bianca scoffs. "As if I'm anymore excited to be sat here than you are, Barbie." Well, at least we're finally allowed alcohol now. The waiters begin to bring out the wine and salad course.

Over the chatter of the table, I can still make out Marianne's tinkling voice chatting with Hunt. "Don't be so uptight, Thomas! It seems being stuck in a classroom for so long has sucked the fun right out of you." "We both know I wasn't any fun before I started teaching, either." "That is true. I'd never met a director who earned his reputation more than you, dear. Perfectionist-" "I prefer 'purist'". "-heartless-" "Focused." "And power hungry." "Ambitious." I can't help but peek over and see him grinning. The grin I haven't seen since the night of the masquerade. You lucky woman.

Marianne and Hunt go back and forth about the good old days. Bianca groans and makes a vomiting gesture. "God, I wish they'd just hook back up already and shut up." I pause from poking at my salad and look up at her. "Wait... what?" A little sparkle lights Bianca's eye. "Oh, you didn't know? Marianne and Hunt used to be an item." Something clicks. "Is that... is that why he's been acting worse than normal? He's pushing me away for Marianne?" I whisper to Addison. Addison gives me a look, then turns back to Bianca. "And you're sure?" Bianca gulps her wine. "Oh yeah, I mean, it was a long time ago, but they were a big deal back then. They amicably broke it off when Marianne moved to NYC for her first big magazine job, and they're still friends." More wine. "It's just not fair." "What's not fair?" "Marianne Delacroix is like, perfect for Hunt. She's elegant, charming, sophisticated, and not to mention, beautiful. Who stands a chance of dating Hunt when she's in the picture? No one, that's who." She finishes her wine and snaps at a waiter for more. "Wait, I thought she had a boyfriend?" Addison chimes in. "She did, but they broke up, like, super recently. Marianne is very newly single, and from the way she's looking at Hunt, she's ready to be comforted."

Something in me softly cracks. I chance another glimpse down the table, where Marianne and Hunt are laughing, her hand touching his shoulder. "They would be a perfect match, wouldn't they...?"

"Have you been to the Getty lately, Thomas? Stephen Roth's paintings are being highlighted this month." Marianne is saying to him. I've heard of him. Uncle Moh did security at a gallery he was shown at. I've seen some of his work. "I just went this past weekend. Stephen mentioned he was going to show there last time he visited." Hunt responds. "And did you think it was as derivative as his last exhibit?" "Even more so. It's some of the most unimaginative 'art' I've seen, and I teach this lot." Ouch. Thanks, professor. "I always tell him that he needs to pull himself out of this Harlem Renaissance rut and find some new inspiration."

"Actually, Miss Marianne, if I may. Stephen Roth's paintings are stunning and completely original. Sure, some of his influences are more obvious than others, but as a whole, the exhibit showcased a talented painter who isn't afraid to reference an artistic movement that is often overlooked and undervalued."

I don't realize I've spoken aloud until half the table is gawking at me. Even Addison's jaw is hanging a little open. "Impressive. You seem to know your stuff, Anneka." Marianne smiles proudly. "Thank you, ma'am..." I mutter bashfully. "You know, Thomas, you always make it sound like your students are completely hopeless, but clearly some of them have potential." She nudges him. Hunt is trying his best to keep from glowering, but I can see his hand white-knuckling his wine glass. "So it would seem..."

Entrees come and go as we wine and dine, Addison now prodding me for how I knew who in the world Stephen Roth was. Eventually, some people begin to disperse as they finish eating, and Hunt stands. "Dessert and after-dinner drinks will be served in the living room in a few minutes. I just have to fetch the moscato from the wine cellar."

"And I have to use the little girls' room." I tell Addison. "Ooh, going after Hunt alone?" She teases. "No Ads, I'm actually going to the bathroom." I poke her forehead and head off to do just that. Only, as I exit the bathroom, I run almost straight into Hunt in the hall. "Ah! Professor, I am so sorry, it almost happened again!" I nervously chuckle as I help straighten the bottle he almost dropped. "Leave it be." He mutters and tries to rush past me. "Wait!" I call. He stops and impatiently turns around. "Can we just talk for a minute?" His scowl burns into my face. "About what?" "I'm not asking to be all buddy-buddy with you, but you've been very rude, and purposely avoiding me-" "I don't know what you're talking about. I'm hosting a party, Anneka, I have important things to do." "I understand, I do. But I don't even feel like a guest, I feel like a nuisance. Just, please, tell me what the problem is-"

"You want to know what the problem is?" He steps toward me and jabs a finger at me. "It's you. You are my only problem. Your very presence puts everything I've worked toward my whole life in jeopardy. So I'd appreciate it if you weren't around. At all. Leave me alone!"

It's like a punch to the gut all over again. But this time, this time his expression doesn't soften. Instead, he just turns around. I take a step back, trying to regain what little composure I have. "Understood, sir." I mutter. And then I stumble for the front door.

*******

I make it to the bottom of his front porch steps before I collapse. Luckily, I seem to be the only soul out here right now, as the party is happening inside and out back. I'm too in shock to even sob, so tears just silently stream. This would have hurt even if I didn't have feelings for him. But the finality of that statement. If he thinks I'm a problem, then I won't be a problem.

The front door opens and someone approaches beside me. "Ads, I'm fine, just needed a breather from the alcohol-" "You only had one glass, my dear. I know it's much more than that." I whip my head around to see Marianne Delacroix gently lowering herself to sit next to me. She offers me tissues. "How did you-?" "I may have heard the whole thing. But don't worry, I'm the only one who did. What he said was very uncalled for, but... he didn't mean a word of it." I sniffle and use one of the tissues. "How do you know?" "You think he didn't treat me differently when we were younger? His emotions are... hm, let's say complicated. He has a very hard time controlling them and they usually come in outbursts like that." "He controls his emotions by lashing out? Isn't that, like, toxic?" Marianne laughs softly. "It can be. But Thomas is like an ice sculpture; you just have to keep chipping away until the ice turns into something beautiful."

I take a deep breath. "Wait... why are you telling me this? I thought you two were...?" She laughs again. "A long time ago. But no, I didn't come here to steal your man. Maybe at first, but I saw how he looked at you, and I knew I would never stand a chance." I sputter. "Wait, what? No, no, it's not like that- he's my professor! And the way he looked at me? What, with disdain? And you not standing a chance? Have you met you? You're sophisticated, charming, smart and beautiful, I don't-" Marianne puts a finger to my lips. She leans in close. "You want to know a secret?" She smiles, her perfectly red lips enough to make anyone blush. "If all that is true, then you're just like me."

I can only stare as she stands and helps me to my feet. "Never sell yourself short, darling. You don't see the way he looks at you when your back is turned. You never do." Her smile is knowing, and there's butterflies in my chest and stomach.

"Marianne, I've been-" Hunt suddenly appears in the doorway, but stops when he sees us standing there. She doesn't look at him, but leans down and gives me a gentle kiss on the cheek. "He'll come around," she whispers. Then she's heading back up the front door steps and into the house, right past Hunt.

A moment passes before I look up at him. He's frozen, looking as if he's waging war within himself. I gesture for him to come over, then sit back on the steps. Hunt sighs and becomes the second person to sit next to me on the steps.

The awkward silence feels like an eternity. Finally, he speaks softly. "...I really am horrible to you, aren't I?" I smooth my skirt and hug my knees. "You can be, yeah." "...I'm sorry." He looks over at me. "I'm truly sorry, Anneka. Sometimes I lash out in the moment and don't realize what I've said until the damage is done." I shrug. "It's not completely unwarranted. I've been pushy, and in-your-business, and-" "But you haven't. You're just there, and I make it seem like a problem that you are." "So... you're saying I'm not a problem?" Hunt laughs to himself. "No, Anneka. You are not a problem. My stubbornness and ego are." I laugh with him. "... I think I know why you've been avoiding me, though." "Oh?"

Deep breath. Time to tackle the elephant in the room, Annie. "...Right, so... You mentioned, in the storage room a while ago... you brought up feelings." I feel myself beginning to blush. He's watching me with unreadable scrutiny. "And, I mentioned something like a school girl crush..." Another deep breath. "It's... true. I've always admired you, as a professor and from your work, and then, that night, at the masquerade... I wasn't disappointed it was you?" I look at him for a reaction. For anything. He hasn't changed.

I sigh and cover my face. "I like you, Hunt. My stupid heart decided it that night and I can't... stop. I know it's so forbidden, student and teacher and all, but I'm hoping it'll get easier to get over once the confession is out. So there it is." I lift my face and look out into the street. Now I'm waiting for the yelling to start, for him to berate me for being so childish and having these silly feelings that are just a phase I'll get over, that there's a snowball's chance in hell this would or could ever happen.

But Hunt doesn't yell. No, Hunt doesn't yell. His forehead softly collides with my shoulder, and I feel his weight shift as he sighs. Is he... relieved? What is happening right now?

As my head turns, my jaw gently meets the top of his head. His hair smells and feels like mousse, and I get a whiff of that fancy cologne that has never left my senses. My hand finds his on the stone step, our fingers graze. "Hunt...?" I whisper.

Then he's standing up in a flash, brushing off his blazer and shaking himself awake. "Thank you for your... honesty, Anneka. Enjoy the rest of the night." Then Hunt marches up the steps and back inside.

I follow a few minutes later and find Addison talking shop with Marianne in the kitchen. Hunt has disappeared. "Hey, there you are! Long bathroom break, you okay?" Addison asks.

I'm still in a daze, but I smile. "Yeah, I'm okay. I feel... lighter, honestly." Marianne smiles knowingly. But Addison grimaces. "Gross, TMI."

"No, not like that!"

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, names, some dialogue, and all characters except for Annie belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: Rising Stars. Thank you for reading!)

[yulikitten]

Oh boy… Here we go… "Oh look! Another entitled trans streamer bitching about Twitch! What a shocker! Quick! Let's make fun of her in the comments and call her names and slurs!" Yeah, yeah, get your insults out now. Okay… Ya done? Awesome. Okay, so this is the first time I have ever written a full script for something like this, but trust me, this is going to likely contain a lot of rambling and nonsense. And yeah, I'm gonna bitch about something, and it's going to sound like I'm entitled, but I need to vent my frustrations for a little bit and I want the world to hear what I am going through. So… To start out, hi, I'm Yulikitten, and I am a trans streamer. That word, "trans" is likely a red flag for all of you, and yeah, I can predict the "you'll never be a woman," or the "attack helicopter," or the "40 percent jokes" from a mile away. This shit is nothing new to me and I persist despite those jokes. Like, I'm not going to disappear just because you use a lot of anti-trans jokes and rhetoric against me. And yes, I have been called a groomer before. I have heard it all and I've dealt with it all.

So… I'm a streamer who's been struggling for a little while now. For now, I think it could just be Twitch's algorithm being dog shit, or my shockingly ordinary life that has no flavor leading me to being a boring conversationalist. That could be it, or I'm just playing vidya games wrong. It could be a number of factors, but the point is, I have been struggling. A lot. Struggling to gain followers, struggling to gain subs, struggling to hold a conversation, etc, etc. You name it, and I'm probably struggling with it. Am I boring? Yeah, definitely. Absolutely, 100%. I also try to be VERY nice on stream. Like… Very nice. I've delved into the realm of toxicity before, trust me. However it doesn't work. I should know. I tried that shit. No results, and in fact, I've lost followers over being toxic. Therefore I don't do it anymore. Now, with as of this writing 1323 followers, you may be thinking, "wow! You're still doing better than 95% of the platform, and you're acting… ENTITLED?!! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU, YOU STUPID CU-" and yeah, I agree. I am acting entitled and I know it. But that's not gonna stop me from ranting about my numbers.

I know I'm mediocre. I know I suck. I know I'm terrible. I've been told that my entire life. I act like an asshole because finally SOMETHING SEEMED to be going my way, but as of late, it's been feeling more like things haven't gone my way and it sucks. A good thing was happening to me, and I am suddenly finding myself in a spiraling decline. Now, I'm not here to spill my guts about how I need you all to feel sorry for me. Shit has been difficult my entire life. I'm used to, and am tired of being pitied. I'm tired of being treated like a fucking loser and a failure. So… It's my goal to get… Living comfortably enough from livestreaming and to not have to work a real labor job. I know that's asking for a lot, and it is.

The core of my rant today is to just spill my guts about my low viewership numbers and my lower follower gain. I know every streamer faces this kind of thing. It's not unique to me, and it won't ever be unique to me. I've been noticing this decline since April. I've poured over my data and have deduced that since I stopped playing Guilty Gear Strive, a game that I love but am taking an extended hiatus from due to hypernatremia. In other words, Guilty Gear was pissing me off and I've been avoiding it. Street Fighter 6, as of late, is likely going to end up the same way, if I'm being honest. I think the core of my decline is probably linked to the platform itself and the fact that I do so much better with an active chat. I love talking to my community, but when my community doesn't talk to me… Well, I get tight-lipped and I genuinely can't help it. This isn't a uniquely me issue, either.

I think I just suck at streaming, and I need to get better at it. I need to get better at editing, marketing, etc. I want to do streaming and content creation full-time and I feel like shit for not being able to make it happen after two years. I feel depressed and not worthy of anything, despite my community telling me otherwise, and I know… I know that other content creators are going to call me out for this post. I know they will. Moist Critikal will, and he's going to make fun of me and I don't blame him. I just… I need to get this off my chest that I feel like an absolute loser and a failure and I wish I just didn't feel that way.

I'm not asking you to just drop everyone and go follow me on Twitch. I'm not going to ask that people subscribe. This is just a rant to vent my frustrations and feelings. I need to get this into a tangible form before I fucking explode. Consider this… A publicly available diary entry that everyone can read!

Anyway… Follow me if you want to, I don't blame you if you don't. Link is in the post.

PS. I'm considering streaming on Kick. I don't want to because it has a huge Nazi problem, but I've been looking at Twitch taking L after L, and it's looking very tempting. Well… That's it. See ya