#i can see another [] <- those there parentheses

[euphoricpentagram]

So it took me forever to get these straight and so now you have to

[ ] = brackets

( ) = parentheses

{ } = braces

Thank you for coming to my TEDx talk

[pnutbutter-n-j-elyy]

Their Reaction to Your Spotify Wrapped

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in honor of wrapped day!!! this idea came when talking with @axel-skz one of my fave friendships made in 2024. i hope yall enjoy cuz it was hella fun making this.

Warnings: Slight suggestiveness, Slight cussing, mention of afab! reader (ovulation), mention of pornography (in a joking manner).

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Chan

The minute you pulled up your Spotify Wrapped, Chan was leaning over to be nosy.

"I bet it all Stray Kids." He said, as the animations started playing." You gave a small nervous laugh, knowing that it wasn't going to be them.

"And I was rig- Billie? Eilish?" His face froze. "Billie Eilish, Tyler, the Creator...Stray Kids. We're third?" His brows furrowed and the corners of his smile twitched downwards. "Oh..." His voice was defeated and he looked at you with unreadable eyes.

"Yeah! Isn't that great! You guys are in my top five!" You said pinching his cheek lightly, trying to brighten the look painted on his face.

But it was no use since he was already spiraling.

"So do you- well, is it our music? Do you not like it anymore? Is it too repetitive? Or is it my production? Should I switch things up- like should I make more ballad? Add more orchestral elements? Or maybe-"

"Chris-"

"-more collabs? Maybe Billie would be open to- are our lyrics not deep enough?"

"Christopher-"

"I think maybe we need less-"

"CHRISTOPHER BANG!" You shouted through a fit of laughter.

He pulled back in surprise and looked at you with eyes as wide as saucers.

You took your hands, placing them on either side of his face. "It's not you or the boys, baby."

"Then what was it? Why weren't we number one?" He asked with a pout.

"You're third because I live with you." You lips upturned and Chan searched your face. "I don't need Spotify to listen to Stray Kids. I've got the worlds best producer humming in my ear while we fold laundry and wash the dishes. Billie and Tyler don't do that."

His lips parted into a sheepish grin, a small "hehe" slipping out of his mouth as his face scrunched into a boyish excitement.

"You think I'm the best producer."

"Without a doubt." You replied, kissing his cheek softly. "So stop overthinking. What matters is that your my number one where it actually matters."

Chan's ears flushed pink when you said those words, and he surrendered, opting to cuddle next to you on the couch as you turned on the TV.

"Alright..." He said as you clicked on a random drama. "But I'm still going to add some features on our next album. Just for you."

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Minho

"Y/N. You're a virgin."

You sputtered on your tea, getting it on to the pages of your book. "And?! What does that have to do with anything-" You asked as you turned around to see your boyfriend dangling your phone like it was contaminated.

Your Spotify Wrapped illuminated the screen.

"Minnie-" You reached to snatch your phone but he held it out of arms reach, his eyebrows raised in mock incredulity.

"What the hell are your top five songs Y/N?! CupcakKe?! Unironically?!" He looked at your screen. "Deepthroat...Its Hard to Say I Love You, parentheses, while you're sitting on my face...Slob On My Knob- and another CupcakKe song, Y/N are you trying to manifest something?! Because this is not the way!" He said in horror.

You gave up trying to reach for your phone and crossed your arms and huffed. "As my friend always says- celibacy either leads to being asexual or a freak. Its a closed way of thinking but can be rather true sometimes..." You muttered, turning away to hide the blush creeping up your face.

"I'm shocked." He said, looking through the songs again.

"Why? It's art."

"Art. Art? Stray Kids is art, kitten. Wanting to eat dick but not wanting to fuck up your nails so - and I quote - 'i pick it up with chopsticks' is not art. Thats basically audio porn."

"More like audio smut."

"More like absolutely fucking terrfying." He said looking at the rest of your wrapped in morbid curiosity. "Where do you even listen to this freakiness? At the gym? While cooking? In public?"

"Sometimes..." You said shrugging and deciding to own it. "Its empowering."

Minho dramatically handed your phone back to you, giving you the longest and hardest side eye ever. "Your a completley different person. I've never been more afraid of you in my entire life. And I've seen you drive."

You took your phone, his words giving you and idea.

A devious smirk lit up your face.

Minho watched you in curiosity as you set your phone down. "Baby..." You started to laugh, heading to the living room. "What are you plotting-" Your eyes zoned in on the Alexa and Minho's eyes widened as he replayed his words.

"Alexa-"

"Baby no-"

"Play Drive by Stray Kids"

"Jagiya no-"

"Now playing Drive, by Bangchan and Lee Know-"

"Alexa no! Stop don't play that!"

"-feel the heat inside. Baby, baby we gon' do this day and night-"

"Enjoy your own art, baby!" You said kissing, him which in habit he leaned into before yelling at Alexa frantically.

"Alexa! Stop! Cancel- Delete Y/N's existence!"

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Changbin

"So..ITZY is your number one?" Changbin asked you, an unreadable look on his face as he stared at your phone. "Then NewJeans, TWICE, Blackpink, and aespa?"

"Yes..."

"And Stray Kids didn't even make it to your top five?"

"Yes...?"

There was a moment of silence, and Changbin looked up at you.

Your heart thudded in your chest, and your mouth felt dry. "Are...are you mad?"

Changbin set your phone face down and stepped towards you. "Mad? Mad?" He asked, his voice slightly elevated.

You opened your mouth to say something- to apologize or ask him to not be too angry but instead you were shocked when he trapped you in a hug and lifted you; spinning you around in a tight hug.

"I'M ECSTATIC!" He said, setting you down, and almost vibrating from happy energy. "Why would I have reason to be upset?"

"Because you weren't on my top five. Since your my boyfriend I thought that would make you-"

He shook his head, placing his hand out and closing his eyes. "Its a sign." He said in a philsophical whimsy.

"...What?"

He opened his eyes looking into the distance romantically. Then extending his arms in a dramatic flourish he painted the picture.

"You like girl groups. Meaning you're clearly meant to be with me."

You looked at him in a confused wonder.

"Think about it. I'm the ultimate baby girl. ITZY was number one. Who is close to ITZY? Me, Seo Changbin, your boyfriend. Subconciously, your soul has been telling you I'm the one for you all along." He said looking at you with a cheeky grin.

That made you laugh, your nerves leaving you.

"Binnie I think that has to be the most unhinged logic I have ever heard!"

"But it makes sense. The music reminds you of me. The energy scream 'Changbin'." You could almost imagine the sparkles around his name. "Cute, charismatic, adorable. The visuals- the duality. Me. Changbin." He looked at you with an exaggerated smolder.

He pushed you onto the couch gently, attacking you with tickles.

"Bin- you're- riDICuLOUS-" You squealed, as his fingers flew around you.

"No I'm not!"

"DelusionAL-"

"Never!"

He strengthened his attack until you could barely breathe you were laughing so loud- wondering why you thought someone like Changbin would be upset at something so meaningless.

"Even if I was, you would love me nonetheless!" He stopped his tickles, he blew a rapsberry on your neck and peppered you face with a few kisses. "And you'd have to deal with it 'cause your stuck with me forever."

"Forever?" You asked, a radiant smile on your face as the last of your giggles died out.

"Yes forever." Changbin replied, plopping down on top of you, planting one last firm kiss on your lips. "ITZY said so."

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Hyunjin

"Beethoven? BEETHOVEN?"

Hyunjin looked at you, his jaw nearly on the floor. When he asked you who your most listened to artist of the year was, he wasn't expecting to hear a classical composer leave you lips.

"Yes. Beethoven. Followed by you guys."

"N-n-n-n-no. No. Nope, no. Nnnnnn...nono." Hyunjin said shaking his head. "Run that back."

"Beethoven then-"

"Y/N-ah." He said with a serious look. "You mean to tell me...Beethoven- an old dead guy - was favorite over the band your loving, hard-working ALIVE and BREATHING boyfriend is a part of?!" His eyes narrowed in disgust.

"Well if you put it like that-"

He flopped dramtically onto the couch. "How am I supposed to tell the guys you chose a decomposing man who sits there- uh...metaphorically- and collects streams; over your boyfriend and his bandmates who work day and night, through blood, sweat and tears." He throws his hand over his forehead. "Its such a disgrace."

"Hyunnie, I think that Beethoven would have words for you if he was here." You say through a chuckle.

"Well he may have words for me, but I have no words for you." He said huffing dramatically, zoning in on Kkami who was sleeping peacefully. Hyunjin stands and scoops him up, burying his face in the poor, startled dog's fur.

"I can't believe you and your dramatics." You say walking up to him and putting your hand on the top of his head.

"C'mon Kkami. It's just me and you now buddy. We're boycotting Y/N-ie."

You rolled your eyes, letting out a snort. "You're a drama king, Hyunjin." You said, your eyes trailing to Kkami who looked between you and Hyunjin in an unconcerned sleepiness.

"Y/N clearly doesn't love us anymore."

Kkami looked at Hyunjin, then looked at you and then back at Hyunjin, then cocked his head; almost as if he understood the absurdity of the situation.

"You're insufferable." You flicked your boyfriend's nose, and stole the dog from his arms. "Beethoven is my study music. It helps me focus."

"So you're saying we're distracting?" Hyunjin takes Kkami out of your arms. "Don't talk to me or my dog ever again." He flips his hair and buries his face once more in the small dogs fur, the later shooting a look that seemed like an SOS.

"You're being so extra." You sat on the couch, patting the spot Hyunjin occupied only a minute ago.

"Oh, am I?" He asked, lowering himself next to you, a playful pout on his lips. Kkami immediately rushing towards the far end to resume his nap.

"Unbearably so." You whispered against his lips. "And for the record, Beethoven doesn't make songs that make me want to cry like 'Cover Me' or songs I want to scream at the top of lungs like 'God's Menu'."

"You really like Cover Me that much?"

"Mm. Obviously."

"Fine, fine. I forgive you. But only because I'm way to pretty to hold grudges."

You roll your eyes, but can't help the smile that forms.

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Han

Han peered over your shoulder, his eyes widening as he looked at your Spotify Wrapped.

“Y/N... baby, angel, love of my life...this... this...is your Wrapped?” he asked, a mix of disbelief and amusement in his voice.

You glanced at him, not anticipating the reaction. “Yeah, it’s my Wrapped. What’s wrong with it?”

Han let out an exaggerated gasp.

"Jagiya...Taylor Swift? Olivia Rodrigo? Sabrina Carpenter?” He placed his hands on his hips, shaking his head in mock disappointment. “You’re telling me I’m dating someone who has these as their top artists?” He blinks at you.

You blinked at him back incredulously. “What’s wrong with that?”

“Everything!” Han said, his voice playful but slightly elevated. “I thought you were cooler than this, Y/N! You’re too good for this mainstream pop stuff. You deserve better! To think you've never experienced more than that bubble...my heart is breaking."

You couldn’t help but chuckle at his intense reaction. “I listen to your music as well! Besides...I like what I like? Why do you care so much?” You retorted.

“Because,” he said, suddenly serious, “I’m trying to help you, babe. Spotify Wrapped is like a doctor basically, it gives you a diagnosis. You’re... basic. Heartbreakingly basic. I'd be okay if you had at least one quirky artist but your last artist is Playboi Carti which knowing you, you played his music on repeat while you slept so your wrapped could seem at least a little cool."

You let your eyes land anywhere but him, knowing he clocked you on that one.

"I’m going to save you from this madness.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Am I really that boring?”

Han shook his head, his expression turning playful again. “No, no. Not boring, just undiscovered. You could be listening to something way cooler- something with depth! I’m dating someone who only listens to pop queens when you should be out here vibing to underground, avant-garde...I don’t know, maybe like, 90s rock or something? You seem like you could rock with that to be honest?”

“90s rock?” you echoed, trying not to burst out laughing.

“Yes! You need to broaden your horizons!” Han continued, clearly loving the moment. “I’m not mad that Stray Kids aren’t number one, I mean, that’s whatever, you literally can have a private show whenever you want. BUT I’m honestly a little teensy weensy upset I’m dating someone with such a copy and paste taste. Come on, babe! I expected better! Especially when you're dating a member of a band that has a wide range of talent. I mean you can literally ask me or any of the guys and you'd get a shit ton of different recs. You have an entire library of musical knowledge at your disposal. That's like having 100 flavors of icecream and choosing vanilla.”

You grinned, poking him lightly. “Okay, I get, I get it. But just so you know, you're still number one in my life, even if its not represented in my music choices."

Han’s eyes sparkled as he leaned in, ruffling your hair with a grin. “I’ll fix that, don’t worry. We’re going to go on a musical journey. I’m making you a new playlist. And I'll have the rest of the memebers make you playlists as well. You’re going to listen to some cool stuff, baby, and by next year’s Wrapped, you’ll be so hip that even I’ll be jealous.”

“I’m not sure I’m ready for that,” you said, laughing. “I kind of like my basic pop playlists.”

“Well, you will like my playlists,” Han said confidently, leaning back with a smug smile. “Trust me, love. I’ve got you covered. You’ll thank me later, once you realize just how much better music can be than the top 40."

You laughed, shaking your head. “Alright, alright, I’ll give it a shot. But only if you don’t judge me when I still go back to my pop queen playlist sometimes.”

“I’ll never judge you,” Han said, giving you a sweet smile. “I’m just here to help you reach your full potential as a music lover. Open your world up a bit. Change your life.”

You poked his side playfully. “You’re so dramatic, but I love you.”

“I know you do,” he said with a grin, leaning down to kiss your forehead. “Now, get ready to say goodbye to those mainstream artists and hello to your new musical future.”

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Felix

Felix is sprawled on the living room floor, legs stretched out in front of him as he pulls up your Spotify Wrapped on his phone. His excitement is palpable- eyes glowing, lips curved into a soft smile.

That is, until he starts scrolling.

“Baby,” he says slowly, his voice gentle but undeniably concerned. “Why is ‘Meow Meow Meow Meow’ your number one song this year?”

You blink at him from your spot on the couch. “Because it’s a bop?”

“A bop?” he echoes in a strained tone, as if the words physically pained him. He turns the phone to you, the incriminating title glowing on the screen. “It’s literally just someone meowing to 'What Was I Made For'. Why not just listen to the original version?”

“Actually it's AI.” you reply, in a matter of fact tone. “And because it’s genius. I love cats, and I love Billie. Win-win."

He tilts his head, blinking at you like you’ve just confessed to a crime. “Um...okay. Maybe Minh-hyung would like it, I guess? ‘Skibidi Toilet, Minion version’? Why is that number two?”

You shrug, trying to suppress a laugh. “It’s catchy.”

“Catchy?!” Felix’s mouth falls open as he sits up straighter, his freckled face a picture of disbelief. “Do you…do you listen to this unironically? Like...for your enjoyment rather than being funny?” His voice hold even more concern now, it wavering slightly.

“I guess you'll never know,” you reply smugly.

He groans, laying back down and holding your phone way above his face. “Let me guess, number three is-” He cuts himself off with a noise that’s somewhere between a gasp and a whimper. “Ten hours of washing machine noises?”

Now you’re laughing, tears forming in your eyes as he glares at you. “It’s calming!” you explain between giggles.

“And who’s number four?” He face morphing with increasing horror. “Laufey…cat version?”

You shrug again, biting your lip to stifle your amusement. “It’s Laufey but, you know…with meows. It’s cute!”

Felix places the phone face down on the floor, pinching the bridge of his nose like he’s fighting a migraine.

“And finally, number five. Let’s see which masterpiece you deemed worthy to round out this absolutely deranged top five.”

The moment he reads it, he freezes. His expression morphs into something unreadable- equal parts betrayal and comedic disbelief.

“KSI,” he mutters, his voice flat. He sits up slowly and releases a breath. “Behind… the washing machine and cat Laufey.” He releases his words with a click of his tongue.

You can’t hold it in anymore, bursting into uncontrollable laughter as he stares at you like you’ve just kicked his puppy.

“You’re number six, though!” you manage between gasps, tears streaming down your face. As you joined him on the floor.

Felix clasps his chest, like your words physically hurt him. “Six?! Y/N, I’ve cooked for you. I’ve baked brownies. I’ve stayed up late listening to you rant about coworkers! And I’m sixth place? Under meme songs? I mean your entire wrapped in a compilation of memes. I'm surprised Symphony didn't make it on there.”

“It’s not personal,” you tease, wiping your eyes. “It’s just Spotify.”

“Just Spotify?” he repeats incredulously, propping himself up on his elbows. “I sing you to sleep on facetime, Y/N. I text you good morning and good night every single day. And you’re telling me I lost to Skibidi Toilet?”

You crawl onto the floor next to him, wrapping your arms around his shoulders. “It’s okay, Lix,” you coo, planting a kiss on his cheek. “Maybe next year you’ll beat the washing machine.”

“Oh, I’m beating it,” he mutters, determination flickering behind his eyes. He grabs his phone, pulling up his notes app. “I’m writing a song that will sound good with Cat AI. With a bridge. And a rap section. And violins. There will be no way you won't like it."

You double over with laughter, and Felix can’t help but grin despite himself, his pout softening. “You’re lucky I love you,” he mumbles, pulling you into his lap.

“You’re my most listened to, most loved, and most wanted in real life, Lixxie.” you assure him, smiling up at him sweetly.

Felix sighs, but leans to kiss your forehead anyway. “Yeah, well, I know that.”

"Then why do you look so down, hmm?"

"Because I'm concerned, I might need to find you a therapist."

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Seungmin

You sat on Seungmin’s bed, tapping through your Spotify Wrapped with a satisfied grin.

Just how you thought it'd be. Predicatable, but represntative of how your musical year went.

You were minding your business, about to share your results to insta when Seungmin sat himself on the bed next to you, snatching the phone from your hands.

The moment he saw the screen, though, Seungmin let out a surprised huff.

"Ateez?" he said slowly, his voice tinged with amusement and a slight possessiveness. You knew how he was when you stanned other Kpop groups. You had been with him for a while, of course you knew. “Oh, I get it now. You’re one of those people."

You sat up and looked at him. "What do you mean one of those people?"

Seungmin shrugged. "Its okay, you can admit that you like bands that perform like they're auditioning for a Korean rendition of Magic Mike."

Your eyes widened, but before you could protest, he fell back on the bed, holding your phone up like a damning piece of evidence.

“Don’t even try to defend yourself, Y/N,” he continued, the smirk growing on his lips. “This Wrapped is telling me everything I need to know. It’s basically the modern-day Rorschach test you know; and what it’s screaming is that you’re letting your ovulation and hormonal spikes curate your playlists. I bet you’re one of those people who stream music videos on mute, too, aren’t you? Just vibing to the abs and body rolls in crop tops.” His eyebrows quirk in curiosity.

Your jaw dropped as you threw a pillow at him, but he dodged effortlessly, tossing your phone onto the bed carelessly.

He quickly got up, maneuvering himself so he was in front of you.

“Don’t act so scandalized.” He leaned closer, his dark eyes glinting with mischief, as you leaned back slightly. “You can admit it- you like watching them dance half-naked on stage, huh? I mean, who wouldn’t? Factually speaking they’re...talented.” he said, dragging the last word with exaggerated emphasis. “Really skilled performers. Without a doubt. But it’s cute. You’ve got a thing for guys showing a little skin. It’s very...telling.” He gave you a small, smirk.

You fell back on your elbows, your face warm from his teasing, but Seungmin wasn’t done. He shifted closer, hovering inches above you, the bed dipping under his weight as he planted one arm beside you, effectively caging you in. The other hand rested on your waist.

“But here’s the real question,” he murmured, his voice dropping lower. “If you’re so into that, what are you doing here with me? Fully clothed, tragically modest... just a genius who writes incredible music and doesn’t need to flash his abs to be appealing. What a shame for you, huh?”

The corner of his lips twitched upward as he leaned even closer, the air between you charged. “Tell me, Y/N,” he whispered, his breathe tickling the shell of your ear. “Do I need to take my shirt off to compete with them? Or should I just show you what real...talent looks like? Would you like that?”

"I..." Your heart was nearly leaping out your chest, a warmth overcoming your body as Seungmin spoke. You couldn't deny how flustered you were.

"Listened to them for 1000 minutes? How 'bout I double that. You'd enjoy every second."

Your breath hitched, you, nearly caving in; but before you could respond, Seungmin nipped your ear lightly and sat back with a sly grin, leaving you flustered.

“Ah, I was right. Hormones. But don't worry,” he said lightly, brushing imaginary dust off his sleeve. “I’ll forgive you for now. But only because I find it hilarious that my perfectly curated playlists are competing with your...uh,..primal needs?” He shot you a wink, his smugness on full display.

And just like that, he stood up, stretching leisurely as if he hadn’t just thrown you into emotional- and hormonal- chaos.

With that, he walked to the door, pausing to glance back with a knowing smirk. "If you ever get bored of half-naked performances let me know. I'm here, fully clothed yet still 10 times more attractive. I could teach you what good taste in music looks like. I’d hate for your Spotify Wrapped next year to be just as embarrassing.”

He winked again, blowing you a kiss, disappearing down the hallway, leaving you a flustered, blushing mess on his bed.

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Jeongin

You handed your phone to Jeongin, proud of your Spotify Wrapped results. “Look! Stray Kids is my number one artist.”

Jeongin barely glanced at the screen before freezing mid-scroll. His eyes darted back up to meet yours, wide with disbelief. “Wait... what?”

“Stray Kids is my number one! My boyfriend is my most listened to artist!” you repeated, grinning like it was the best news he could hear all day.

But Jeongin, to your utter confusion, looked horrified.

“No, no, no,” he muttered, shaking his head as he sat back on the couch. “This...this is all wrong. Utter sacrilege.”

“Sacrilege?” you echoed, frowning. “You’re in the group. Shouldn’t you be happy about this?”

“Y/N-ah.” Jeongin said dramatically, placing a hand over his heart as if he were physically in pain. “Do you not see what you’ve done? Look at your other top artists!” He gestured wildly to the screen. “It’s TROT. Literal legends of trot music. Song Ga In, Jang Yoon Jeong, and Na Hoon-a!”

“Yeah?” you said hesitantly, unsure of where this was going. “What about them?”

“What about them? What about them!?” Jeongin’s jaw dropped like you’d just said the sky was green. “They should be above us! Above me! Above Stray Kids! This is trot. TROT.” He pronounced it with the reverence of someone naming a sacred art form.

“But I like Stray Kids,” you said, laughing nervously.

“That’s not the point!” Jeongin stood up, pacing back and forth like a professor about to give a lecture. “Trot is timeless. It’s emotional. It’s pure, unfiltered storytelling in music. And you’re telling me you put us- a bunch of chaotic twenty-somethings who write songs about cheese and screaming—above the actual foundation of Korean music?” He stared at you as if you had 6 heads growing from you.

“It’s not like I ranked it!” you protested. “Spotify Wrapped did that for me! Blame them!”

Jeongin spun back to you, pointing an accusing finger. “Don’t blame Spotify. This is your fault Y/N-ah. You’re clearly not listening to enough trot if us noisy Gen Z - minus Channie-hyung he's like an old grandpa- beat out legends like Na Hoon-a. Do you even know how much soul that man has? How many hearts he’s broken with his voice?” He looked at you in complete seriousness. "Countless." His eyes shone with admiration.

You rolled your eyes, unable to contain your laughter now. “Innie, are you seriously upset that I listen to Stray Kids more than trot music?”

“Yes!” he declared with absolute conviction. Then, after a pause, he added, “Well...no. I mean, I love that you like our music, because that means you love me and my dream but...this is trot! It’s a different category entirely!” He threw his hands up in exasperation. “I need to fix this.”

“Fix it? Jeongin I already listen to a lot of trot. You see it on my top artists.”

He nodded solemnly, sitting back down beside you and grabbing your phone. “But you don't listen to it enough. From now on, we’re having mandatory trot listening sessions. Every week. Twice a week, actually.”

“Twice a week?” you repeated incredulously.

“At least,” he said, scrolling through your Spotify, curating a new playlist on the spot. “You need to understand why this is a crime against music. Stray Kids shouldn’t even be in the same league as these legends. We’re fun, sure, but we don’t make people cry the way trot does. I mean, do you cry when you listen to ‘Thunderous’? No. But Jang Yoon Jeong’s ‘First Marriage’ could make a grown man bawl. I'm that grown man, Y/N. I'm that grown man." He said his voice dropping to a rueful whisper.

You couldn’t stop laughing as Jeongin grew more and more animated, his passion for trot completely overshadowing any pride he might’ve felt about his own group’s success.

Finally, he looked at you with a small, satisfied smile. “Don’t worry. By next year, I’ll make sure your Wrapped is perfect. Stray Kids can stay on the list, but trot will reign supreme. It’s the least I can do for your musical education.”

“And if I still prefer you guys?” you teased, raising an eyebrow.

Jeongin huffed, pretending to think for a moment. “Then I guess I’ll forgive you...eventually. But we’re playing trot at our wedding, okay?”

You burst out laughing, shaking your head. “Jeongin, are you seriously bashing your own group right now?”

“Yah, yah,” he said, waving a dismissive hand. “They’ll understand. And if they don’t, they love me anyway. They literally wrote a whole song for me.” He smirked, looking entirely too pleased with himself.

You shook your head, still laughing. “Unreal.”

Jeongin grinned, adding a song to your new playlist.

“What’s unreal is how lucky you are to have a boyfriend who’s the best of both worlds- trot connoisseur and K-pop icon. You’re welcome.”

*edit*: but why is trot actually good...??? like i listened to it while writing this and...MYTRO...gonna stan when they debut frfr

(<<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>>)

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[writerblue275]

What pet names would Heartsteel use for their S/O? And what pet names would they like to be called?

Inspiration: None honestly, I’ve just been thinking about it and I think it would be cute.

Genre: Headcanon

Category: Like 95% fluff with one of the member’s (LOL Kayn’s) going a little suggestive. But definitely not like full NSFW.

Gender: 99.999% Gender Neutral, but there might be an occasional parentheses with optional gender specific language for those that are comfortable with it. (Believe me, I get it, I’m non-binary so I do try and keep things as GN! as possible!)

TW: A bit suggestive for Kayn’s, so just to be on the safe-side let’s go 18+ ONLY. MINORS DNI. A mention of alcohol. Also swearing because I swear. 🤷🏼‍♀️

A/N: This will be a bit shorter but that’s just because we have to get through all members both calling and being called pet names.

Aphelios

Pet names for his partner:

I think his pet names for his partner would be very sweet!

Of course there are the classics like “baby” or “babe.” I feel like there are the main ones he’d stick to in public. Another one he’d use in public is “honey.”

But in private I think that’s when his soft side would really come out.

He’d enjoy “cutie,” especially if he knows it makes you blush.

He’s a creative guy, and I think he’d also have some creative pet names.

Especially if he’s trying to turn up the romance/soften you up for something.

Ex: “Starlight,” “sunlight,” “my sun/sunshine/sunlight…”

And if he’s feeling sassy? You “goober” (with a smile and eye roll).

Pet names from his partner:

Just as he likes to call his partner sweeter pet names, I think he’d also like to be called sweeter pet names.

Although again, I think the sweetest ones he’d like you to reserve for him in private.

So “babe,” “baby,” “honey,” and maybe “love” it is in public.

“Cutie” is one he’d secretly love. He’d roll his eyes with the typical Phel sass but you see the way the tops of his ears turn pink.

And you know how he’s creative? Well don’t be afraid to get creative back!

You could make him melttttt with a pet name.

Like “my moon” or go full out with “my moon and stars.” (Especially in response to him calling you “my sun/sunshine.”) His internal response is: :))))

A way to playfully tease him for staying so late at the studio is to call him your “owl/night owl.” (He loves it).

Ezreal

Pet names for his partner:

Pet names with Ez would be so PLAYFUL.

And they would definitely start early on in your relationship.

Even on dates in public he’d be more open with pet names. (Though of course because of who he is both of you are a little incognito with hats, sunglasses, masks, etc...)

Why can I see him calling you something like “pumpkin,” “honeybunch,” “sugar,” “cupcake,” (LISTEN IT’S NOT JUST VI’s NICKNAME FOR CAITLYN DAMNIT) or “peanut?” (Even if you’re taller than him it does not matter, you’re his peanut.)

Lmao Kayn once heard Ez call you “honeybunches” and he was FLABBERGASTED. 😂

Omfg he would absolutely use pet names when trying to get something. Pet names and a pout? The man knows what he’s doing.

Absolutely loves that his pet names make you blush so easily, especially if he whispers them in your ear.

He’s such a lovable menace and I adore him.

Pet names from his partner:

OH THIS? THIS IS GOING TO BE FUN.

Because our man Ezreal can absolutely take as good as he gives.

An obvious one would be “bunny.” (Listen have you seen his smile on the cover art?)

When you called him “bubba” and your “love bug” for the first time, his face lit up like a kid in a candy store.

The more chaotic, the better to catch his attention.

We’re talking shit like “dreamboat,” “goober,” or “cutie-patootie.”

The first time Kayn heard you call Ez “dreamboat” water came out his NOSE he was so surprised.

Will love whatever pet name use because whatever you call him, he’s yours!

Kayn

(A/N: Alright listen this went a little suggestive but LORD help me I think he’d be SHAMELESS with pet names. 😳😏)

Pet names for his partner:

Out of all the members, I feel like Kayn would give the least amount of shits about hiding a relationship in public.

So he’s definitely not holding back from calling you pet names in public (now of course the man is smart enough to know which ones are better to keep private).

But “Babe?” ✅ “Baby? (Baby girl)” ✅ “Angel?” ✅ All totally fair game in public.

In PRIVATE??? 😏😏 Oh my friend get readyyyyy.

This man is a TEASE and you know he’s using pet names as a way to really fluster you. (Though of course he’s being sincere with them.)

Like “hottie,” “kitten,” (CAN YOU IMAGINE??) and “sexy.”

“Sexy” is like the most common pet name he uses for you PERIOD. Ex: Basically every day when he gets home he greets you with a kiss and a soft “Hey, sexy….”

More gender specific, if you were comfortable with it, he’d 100% call you “prince” or “princess.” (Someone get me a FAN 🥵.)

Pet names from his partner:

I think whatever his partner called him would be….not necessarily critical to Kayn, but it would still mean quite a bit.

I think he considers some pet names a little bit like affirmations, in a way. Like when he calls you “hottie” or “sexy” it’s because that’s how he sees you (appearance-wise) and he wants you to KNOW that’s how he sees you.

PLEASE do the same with him!!

Hearing YOU call him “hottie,” “sexy,” or “handsome” immediately banishes any insecurities he might have in the back of his mind.

And you cannot tell me he doesn’t love hearing any of those pet names whispered/murmured in his ear as you wrap your arms around him. I just don’t believe you.

Absolutely call him “Babe” in public. He loves that shit. I don’t think he’d mind if you called him “handsome” or “hottie” in public either, but those would be more for like when you two are having a convo together in a public space, if that makes sense. “Babe” would be to capture his attention.

Random: In private, besides calling him “sexy,” he secretly loves some of the older-school pet names. Like if you want him to MELT? Go old school.

“Darling?” His insides are a puddle and he’s ready to do whatever you need him to do.

(LMAO I had wayyyy to much fun with this, but his headcanon was what made me think about the rest of the group and what they’d like!)

K’Sante

Pet names for his partner:

I think he’s fine with using pet names in public. Like maybe nothing wild but he’s not going to necessarily hide you (though of course he’ll do what he needs to do to keep you safe).

K’Sante could use a mix of “old-school” pet names with more modern ones.

“Babe” is the primary one he uses in public.

Could totally see him using something sweet like “squish” or “boo.” (The mental image of this giant man using something like “Boo” is just amazing.)

If he helps you with an outfit, once you’re done dressing he’d absolutely be like “damn look at you, my model. You look phenomenal.”

Would absolutely use “handsome,” “beautiful,” “gorgeous,” or “stunner.”

I fully believe this man is an excellent cook. And because of that, he’d definitely throw some food-themed pet names in there. I’m thinking “pancake” or “peaches.”

Pet names from his partner:

Again, this man doesn’t really care if you call him pet names in public. Have you seen his sheer size?? People would be insane to mess with him and you (I’m thinking Travis Kelce with Taylor Swift vibes here).

So go for it! Call him “babe” or “baby.”

After they debuted, you affectionately teased him by calling him “hot shot.” Jokes on you though because he actually really likes that one now.

As we’ve discussed, K’Sante can cook along with being hella stylish. So he acts annoyed but really loves it when you sidle into the kitchen and say something like, “What’s cookin’, good lookin’?”

Again, this man knows how to DRESS. Loves hearing you call him “handsome” as you help him with some last touches on a look.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I get such good energy from Heartsteel K’Sante. I feel like he’d give excellent hugs and be your A+ “teddy bear.”

Likes some of the joking pet names you call him! Like when you thank your “stylist” after he helps you get an outfit together and get dressed. (Because let’s be real, he’ll probably have the better fashion sense in the relationship, that’s just how it goes.)

One that doesn’t quite work due to it being tied to pop culture in our world but the VIBE fits: “Hercules.” (Or “HUNK”-ules as the one muse would say.)

Sett

Pet names for his partner:

This man 👏🏻 LOVES 👏🏻 PET NAMES.

To the point that you don’t remember the last time he used your name. In fact, if he uses your name, it’s a clear indicator something is WRONG.

Will definitely use some of the classics in public like “babe” or “baby.”

He’d definitely get creative too. Like you know how he’s “the big boss?” (Hehehe lyric tie-in DUH).

If you ever came to visit him somewhere while he’s working, he’d jokingly call you his “assistant” as he pulls you into a big hug.

Ex: “Oh hey! It’s my amazing assistant who so kindly brought me lunch! How’s your day going so far, baby?” (He wouldn’t keep calling you his assistant throughout the interaction. It’s more of just a funny little greeting for when he first sees you.)

In private, he loves to use “angel,” “doll,” “sexy,” “beautiful/handsome,” or “sugar.” (Would also use “Prince/Princess” if you’re comfortable with it.)

He really knows how to make his partner smile and blush from pet names LET ME TELL YOU.

Pet names from his partner:

Just as much as he loves using pet names on you, he LOVES when you use pet names on him!!

Only call him Sett (or even more so, Settrigh) if something is wrong. You’ll get his attention INSTANTLY.

Of course, “babe,” “baby,” and “honey” are a-ok for use in public. I also think he wouldn’t mind a couple other creative ones being thrown in there every once in a while, even in public

An obvious one to use for him is “boss.” (My parents call each other “boss” and it’s actually very sweet!)

I feel like Sett would have a really romantic side (I mean, Mama didn’t raise her son to be a jackass of a partner here).

So when he does let that romantic side show, call him “Prince Charming” and watch his face light up. (I know that’s technically a pop-culture reference, but Prince and charming could feasibly come together in a world without Cinderella. Another pop-culture one that doesn’t work as well (unless we imagine Shakespeare existing in Runeterra) is “Romeo.” But the vibe fits Sett so I’m including it here.)

Another one who loves it when you call him “sexy” or “handsome.” (And you do it often because HOW COULD YOU NOT??)

Feel free to get creative, especially when you’re alone. Sweet or otherwise, he just loves hearing what names you create for him.

Yone

Pet names for his partner:

Yone is interesting. See, to me he has the highest likelihood of using more “traditional” pet names.

But make no mistake, traditional doesn’t mean boring.

The AFFECTION he puts into the pet names he calls you!!! (Like I’m going mushy just thinking about it.)

He’d be very low-key in public. Like maybe a soft “love,” “honey,” or “dear.” Usually though, it’s your name. (Hey he loves saying your name! Your name makes him happy.)

In private is really where his soft side shines and he’s much more verbally affectionate.

“My love,” “sweetheart,” “my beloved,” and “darling” are big favs of his to use.

He’d absolutely have a couple surprisingly cheesy ones. Like “pumpkin,” “dumpling,” or “sunflower.”

Always loves your reactions to him using pet names for you, especially your delighted expression when he uses the cheesier ones!

Pet names from his partner:

In a similar way to using “old-fashioned” pet names for you, I think he’d love it if you used some of the same ones for him!

Especially in public. I just see him as one of the more private members. But in public feel free to call him “love,” “honey,” or even “babe/baby” when you’re talking together.

Loves when you’re soft with him in private. This man works so very hard and sometimes he just needs some good cuddles and loving pet names.

Enjoys being your “darling,” “lovey,” and your “genius.”

And you have him wrapped around your little finger the second you say “My love…”

I talked about in my last headcanon how I absolutely think Yone loves to cuddle in private (and maybe when he’s drunk but that’s a different story).

You’ve started calling him “koala” because of how cuddly he gets and he secretly LIVES FOR IT.

But he will deny it to his dying breath if you accidentally say it in front of the guys. (Lmao you think Ez and Kayn are going to let him live that down??)

Thank you very much for reading! It’s been really fun to get back into creative writing now that I have this new account! 😊

[macgyvermedical]

Are the posts and you normalizing hallucinations or saying/ trying to say that it's okay to have them it doesn't make anyone abnormal.

Would you say that it's best to get any hallucinations checked out

Or normalize having them and just live with them.

Where is one supposed to draw a line for when it is normal or not to have hallucinations.

Isn't acceptance different than sweeping it under the rug as normal.

PS I mean no offense, just that i know of people who did not seek help early on considering hallucinations to be normal.

Hi!

So, there’s always a fine line one walks when talking about stigmatized mental illness.

For one thing, you want to be like: “hey! You’ve had these symptoms too! Lots of people do! They don’t make us scary to be around!” For the people who might be afraid of the illness because of what they see on TV and how secretive most of us need to be IRL about it.

For another, you want to be like: “hey, I take 4 medications to control these symptoms because I don’t like them! They’re a part of who I am, they’re a natural part of life, but also they’ve caused me problems and I couldn’t work or have good relationships if I didn’t take the meds and go to the appointments!” For the acceptance piece when talking to other people who might experience psychosis symptoms.

And still another: “mental health symptoms like hallucinations are sometimes associated with things like epilepsy and brain tumors, and really you need to rule those out before you can make a firm diagnosis of schizophrenia or other psychosis, because the treatment is different.” Because that’s also true.

And it’s really hard to encapsulate all of those into a single post without a lot of parentheses and caveats. Being an educational blog, I tend a little hard on the “hey don’t be afraid, look at this thing you’ve experienced and scale it up. Does that make you dangerous? Scary? Probably not. Doesn’t make me that way either.”

But it is good to keep in mind that the other 2 approaches exist and are important for a balanced view on the topic.

[anneapocalypse]

No way in hell I am making this rebloggable lmao but one of the things I find the most frustrating about Anders Discourse™ is when people will say Anders Was Right and then totally refuse to engage with even the possibility that there was collateral damage in the Chantry explosion, insisting that the only people who could possibly have been killed or injured in the blast were Elthina and a handful of clerics who also deserved it, and any numbers Inquisition may have stated about the death toll are retcons meant to make Anders look bad.

When... you can see flaming debris raining down on the rest of the city. In the game. Lowtown is on fire. in the game. DA2 may not have given us numbers, but it's canon that there was collateral damage! You can see it! With your eyes!

But if you point this out, you're assumed to be an Anders Hater who is Anti Mage Rights and thinks Anders was unilaterally wrong.

When actually, I think that not only can you acknowledge the damage and still sympathize with Anders' actions in-universe, I think that any argument about the justification or necessity of his attack on the Chantry (including of course his many attempts at nonviolent or less violent resistance that preceded it, the failure of those attempts, the systematic dismantling of the Mage Underground over the course of years, Meredith's call for the Right of Anullment before the attack had occurred, the many ways in which the mages of Kirkwall had been so utterly beaten down and backed into a corner that there was no effective means of nonviolent resistance left to them!) should acknowledge the collateral damage to Kirkwall including the commoners and elves of Kirkwall, and should be interested in discussing what this means in the larger context of all that other stuff I said in the parentheses.

What do we gain from scrubbing this choice clean of undesirable consequences, from pretending that the path to freedom isn't messy, from pretending that the interests of marginalized people in this fantasy world don't ever come into conflict with one another? And what do we lose?

[chatabrilhante]

I wasn’t going to say anything, but some of the youngest are getting on my nerves recently, as I was reading some notes.

It has come to my attention (reading comments from the AO3 community) that some people think the use of “—” (the dash) is a "sign" of stories created by ChatGPT.

First of all, that is fucking stupid, it is a punctuation I see in almost every english book I have, like? Writers from different languagues use the dash almost as much as us, Brazilians like to use “()” [parenthesis] and commas. Secondly, I, like many who read books in other languagues besides north american English, don't need to use that crap to tell us how to use punctuation — although, recently, I've read some other romance books I found in English, and many of them used this punctuation because it's nicely dramatic and useful for avoiding repeating commas and putting multiple things in parentheses.

My master's advisor has been forcing me to use it a lot more for articles, and she made a very good point. According to her, proficient writers use a lot of dashes because it changes the meaning, it's like moving the words to have the height you want (“ stop using so many commas, use the dash and cut some points”, is what she's always saying, she tells that to my face too, the nerve… But, she is older, smarter and has been in the field longer than I exist, so I just listen to her). 

Anyway, I write now mostly to practice my English, which explains the typos and even grammar mistakes you might find. I write in the early hours, post it, and only reread it once, lol, I'm lazy af. So, the plot errors, the dialogues, and the long descriptions of settings that look like a novel by Eça de Queirós are all mine. I'm heavily influenced by the Brazilian authors I read; anyone who knows them should notice. Unfortunately, this makes translating some of the allusions I make difficult, but again, that's all on me. Besides, there are so many more synonyms in Portuguese than in English. Do you have any idea how difficult it is to write translating from your head and realizing you've repeated the same word multiple times because there are so few in the language you're writing in? I can understand why Shakespeare invented so many more.

There's also the pure and simple personal taste of the author. There are certain authors you can identify by how they like to write. Some focus on dialogues, others love describing settings in detail, and some prefer one type of punctuation over another. Furthermore, most people who starts writing fanfiction are young, in or just out of high school, and are still creating their own writing style, which will certainly change as they write more.

Most of all, I don't believe in asking AI to write a story for me to post. If I don't even spend 5 minutes writing it, why should you spend time reading it? 

I don't believe in art created by IA; I don't get into trends of transforming photos; I abhor those who go to “IA chat therapy”, and those who ask their bots to write their emails and reply to their friends' messages. 

In short, that's why I say I don't care who points out English errors, because I genuinely don't give a damn about mistakes. My errors are proof that I took the time out of my life to type, because I enjoy writing something that isn't scientific theses. I've been a fanfic writer since 2009, when I started on Nyah (a Brazilian website), and I persisted on AO3, where I learned to write in English just to keep creating oneshots.

I took my time to learn how to create, and that is the proof that I exist beyond my boring desk work.

But many of the youngs don't know much about construction in text, and it shows.

Death is certain, my dears, so enjoy your human brief life all the way you can. Make mistakes, write bad fiction, and try to speak from your honest loss of words to the people you care about. 

[insolentgod]

⚠️Attention:⚠️ very long post. It talks a little about: state of lack, take your desire off the pedestal, time it takes for a manifestation, get distracted about your manifestation , self-concept, and Cassies

one more night high and having crazy epiphanies about manifestations. and another day using a translator to translate my text to post here, because I haven't claimed to be fluent in English yet 😛 So, as I always warn, if there are possible grammatical errors, it's for this reason.

I'm here to bring you an analogy I created while discussing with a friend haha. (Yes, this time there's nothing about lana del rey!)

you know those people who humiliate themselves for others? Who do everything for someone specific to love them, try to talk to them even if it's unhealthy, or beg them to stay in their lives. (yes, it's quite depressing and sad)

i haven't been like that much in life, usually when someone didn't care about me, i cared even less about them. but I won't lie, there have been situations where I may have humiliated myself a little, but it's human.

anyway, going straight to my analogy, let's imagine that you struggling to manifest something is a friend "Cassie," and the manifestation will be her ex-boyfriend, okay? (i swear it will make sense in the end)

what I write outside the parentheses is Cassie's situation, and what's inside the parentheses is possibly the situation you're going through on your manifestation journey.

okay, you have this friend Cassie who keeps saying that her ex-boyfriend doesn't care about her, doesn't respond to messages, and shows no signs, and she's going crazy and desperate about it (just like you when you see no progress in your manifestation). so she does EVERYTHING to get him back (just like you when you try multiple methods non-stop and feel needy). and as Cassie's friend, you think, "poor cassie, she doesn't deserve to suffer like this" (and she really doesn't deserve it, just as you don't deserve to suffer for your manifestations). there are also moments when she sends a message for you saying, "I'll forget him this time, I promise." but after two days, she's there messaging him again (just like you affirm on the first day all motivated and trying to convince yourself that this time your manifestation will come true, but after a few days, you see no progress and start panicking), and then she gets very sad because she thinks they will never get back together and she will never be happy with him again (just like you think you can't manifest anything, that the universe hates you, that you will never get what you want, that the loa doesn't work). But meanwhile, there are other people out there getting back with their exes and you admire them, wondering what it would be like if it were you... (just like when you look at other people's success stories and think "why can't I do it?") spoiler: You can do it too, honey. If everyone else can do it, so can you. Wake up.

If I were Cassie's friend, I would tell her to STOP acting like that and start valuing herself and just distract herself. because let's be honest, men ALWAYS come back, right? 🤣 and many people may disagree with me on this and think that if she doesn't chase after the guy, he won't come either. but that's how it works for me, even before I started using the law. every time I started valuing myself and stopped begging for others' love, the person came to me. so let's agree with my thinking on this, okay?

and one more point that I think is worth mentioning is that if Cassie really doesn't want to do this alone, maybe a manifestation coach would be a good idea (if it were a real situation, I would suggest her to seek a therapist). There are nuances about "manifestation coaches," I honestly don't use them and I recommend working on your self-concept. but it's an option if you want, but please do thorough research and find a trustworthy one.

returning, what can you do to not be another Cassie? I'm telling you to stop doing whatever you're doing to try to achieve your desire? no. just get out of the state of neediness and desperation, like a Cassie. you don't need that, my love. you don't need to worry, "Is my manifestation coming?" You don't need to use a thousand methods because you don't think it's enough. whatever you believe will bring your desires, will indeed bring your desire. If you believe that jumping three times, building a castle, and kicking an elderly person will give you what you want, guess what? If you do all that, then you will get what you desire. and if you believe that affirming once in your life will get you a beachfront mansion, guess what? you will achieve that.

so, to not be a Cassie:

1 - trust what you're saying, please trust yourself. nnow that ONLY WHAT YOU THINK is the truth, and it will be. (my last long post talks about this exactly, I highly recommend it, okay).

2 - take your desire off the pedestal. your desire may be your biggest dream in life, I don't care. take it off the pedestal. the powerful person who can have anything they want is YOU, not your desire. tou are a thousand times greater than your desire. you don't chase after your desire, your desire chases after you. you know when manifestation coaches tell you to start manifesting just a blue butterfly or a candy? well, it's because for you, that's not difficult. It's something you find easy to manifest and know it's totally possible to have. but you can literally manifest a Porsche at the same speed as manifesting an ice cream, okay? take your desire off the pedestal; you are fully capable of having it.

3 - get out of the state of lack. In the law of assumption, some people talk a lot about states and some manifest just by being in the state of the wish fulfilled and ready, they succeed. but the state of lack is literally when you feel the lack, the absence of your desire. you don't feel like you have it or you don't feel worthy of it, so you probably fall into a spiral of despair with millions of thoughts like "what will I do if I don't achieve it?" "I don't see any progress" "time is passing and I don't have my results". Anyway,

- But what do I do to heal my state of lack?

just don't be in it 💐💐💐 yes, it's easy, okay. please believe that it's easy and it will be. I know it's very easy to affirm when you're motivated, especially after reading a success story. but motivation doesn't last forever and I don't think it's healthy for you to keep restoring your motivation by reading success stories all the time. there's nothing wrong with it, but you don't need success stories to heal. every time you feel like you're entering the state of lack, start trusting yourself. when it happens to me, I start affirming "none of this, I have my desires" "I don't care about what my 3D shows me" "I have what I want", I also imagine myself with my desire as if I really have it now. I'll admit, there are times when I start affirming this to avoid entering the state of lack and at first it feels like I'm feeling wrong, the feeling of hopelessness even. but regardless of how I feel, I keep visualizing and eventually start feeling strong and motivated again. in those moments, you have to be strong and disciplined with yourself, okay? you can do it.

4 - try not to care about time or the 3D reality. i know it's difficult, but please live in your imagination and believe that if you have it in your imagination, you have it now. about time, it depends, okay? Some people manifest in seconds because they believe they can, while others manifest in weeks because they think it takes weeks. if you're the second type of person, you can definitely manifest in seconds if you allow yourself to do so. self-concept affirmations help a lot in this aspect. Just don't worry about time in the 3D reality. If you know that in your mind you have your desire NOW, then you have it now. once you're fully living in your imagination, it will come in the 3D reality. I know it's difficult, but just trust yourself and your mind. I promise that if you live 100% in your mind, your desire can come very quickly.

5 - distract yourself! don't spend the whole day thinking about your desire. usually, the desire comes when you accept that you have it and continue living your life. I know it's complicated, especially when it's something you want, but distract yourself to avoid excessive and negative thoughts about your manifestations. and please get off tumblr for a while

6 - improve your self-concept, please. Just do that, and your manifestation journey will be much easier.

I think that's it for today. I talked a lot as always 😛😛

I usually don't respond to people asking for help here on my blog (mainly because I don't receive any requests) but if you're having problems, you can send me a message, and I'll respond ❤‍🩹 I just want to help someone like loa bloggers helped me when I needed it. good night everyone, and stay hydrated.

[darkandstormydolls]

So, a little while back I had a dream were I was watching a play. I only got to the first scene before waking up, but it was interesting and compelling so I decided to write it down as best I could remember. I’m debating adding more to it, coming up with my own plot and things, but I’m quite proud of scene one and so I figured I would share it. I think I’ll leave it here with no other story context since it would be intended to be the first scene and story introduction anyways

( @ominous-faechild this is the play that I suspected was at least a little bit inspired by your writing, so I’m sort of curious how my subconscious’s interpretation of fae is different)

(Unfortunately my italics didn’t translate, so generally assume that anything in parentheses is stage direction, as well as anything not following standard script dialogue structure)

Characters:

JOHN: a rather lonely young exile who’s beginning to question the choices he’s made in life

NIKOL: The crown prince, who thinks that no one in the world could hurt him- except perhaps himself

KESHAN: Nikol’s childhood best friend and self-appointed protector

TRICKSTER and THE ARCANE RIFTS: a pair of fae who contradict one another in every way, but are still stuck with each other.

Act 1, Scene 1

The room is large, too large for the scattering of old and careworn furniture that occupies it. Through a large, arched, glassless window, the ocean can be seen stirring far below. A cat sleeps on an armchair. JOHN sits at a desk, writing a letter. After continuing to write for a moment, he stands up, holding the paper and reads it aloud.

JOHN: My dear Viktoria,

I suppose there is little to report. Little that would be of interest to you, at least. But I still write. For many reasons, I suppose. I tell myself that I worry that my letters may not be getting through to you. Or perhaps even that you find my anecdotes of this quaint life charming. But in truth, I write to you because I am lonely, and I hope that perhaps you may take pity on this poor soul. Back when we were children, to say “the princess is writing” was like saying “Wren is in the kitchen with his mother”; almost always true. So perhaps you could send some of those letters that are always on your desk my way? Perhaps you are writing, and mail just doesn’t reach this far into the windswept wilds, and you’re wondering why on earth I won’t reply.

But really, I fear it’s that you don’t want to think of me, and that’s why I haven’t gotten any letters in the past two years. Perhaps you feel that it’s not worth keeping up correspondence with a traitor. Perhaps- more likely than perhaps, even- that promise we made, back when we were thirteen, when rings were placed on fingers and bread was shared between tables, has since been broken, and it’s just that no one has bothered to inform me of that fact. After all, why would they? I’m of no consequence.

We managed to fix the roof this past week. The slates had slid out of place, as they always do on these old roofs, and it had been dripping water since we first arrived. But we finally got around to climbing back up there, Father and I, and we’ve managed to replace most of them. It’ll be a welcome change, come winter, to no longer be woken up in the middle of the storm by rain inside of my bedroom.

Calpurnia, of course, is doing wonderfully. She rules like a queen of the castle, and we all bow to her bidding. And her kittens are quite grown, by now. We offered Maximilian to a couple we know down in the village, but Hadrian and Livia are still here, and doing quite well. You should see sweet Livia now that she’s all grown up- I would swear she’s prettier than her mother if Calpurnia, little tyrant that she is, were not purring next to me as I write this.

We’re getting along quite well out here, generally. Of course, there’s the cold and the storms, but those are to be expected. It’s quiet, perhaps too quiet, but I think I am happy nevertheless.

As always, your faithful servant,

John.

JOHN: pretty good, I’d say. Callie, what are your thoughts? (He reaches over to pet the cat, who does not acknowledge his presence. He sighs and folds the letter into thirds.) Let’s hope that this one gets to her.

A knock sounds on the door

JOHN (hesitantly): Yes?

The door swings open and NIKOL and KESHAN enter

JOHN (shocked): Nikol, I- (pauses, uncertain, then bows) Your highness. What brings you here?

NIKOL: John, John my love, enough of all that. (Moves forward to sweep up JOHN in an embrace, which JOHN hesitantly accepts) You’re my friend, my brother in all but name. There’s no need to treat me like a stranger!

KESHAN, still near the door, rolls his eyes.

KESHAN: Cut him some slack. He hasn’t seen you in years. I doubt he knows where he stands with you, especially after… what happened

JOHN gives KESHAN an appreciative look. NIKOL does not seem to notice and keeps talking

NIKOL: I’m so sorry- I wrote, didn’t I? You got my letters? I tried. I mean, I’m not the scrivener my sister is, but you didn’t really think I’d abandoned you, did I? I swear, I’m not my father, and I don’t share his hatred for objections. I wouldn’t hate you, whatever happened, and especially not for that!

JOHN: I did. Some, at least. You can never really trust the mail out here. And I appreciated them.

NIKOL: oh, I’m glad. I worried, when there were never any responses. I took to asking Wren to send them for me. I thought that someone was making sure they never made it out of the castle, if they thought I was writing to you

JOHN: But I did write back

NIKOL: Well, I suppose my fears weren’t unfounded (With forced optimism) But perhaps you’re right and it’s simply the location. It’s far, letters get lost. Oh, but it is good to see you again! (Steps back to look JOHN over). You’ve changed, since we last saw each other. Then again, I suppose we’re not children anymore. Maybe we’ve all changed.

JOHN: I doubt anyone else has as much as me. You grew up alongside the heir to a dutchy. You’ve come here to find-

NIKOL: a duke

JOHN: I would have said more of an inexpert carpenter with an overly eccentric father and a house on a cliff that can’t seem to be fixed for love or money. (Shakes his head, as if clearing a thought away). But how are the others? Wren? Sorrel? Slight pause. Your sister?

NIKOL: Wren’s doing well. Taking the path we all expected, to no one’s surprise. Not that we object. You’ll need to try his newest cherry pie. Sorrel… well, she’s taken a few strange turns in her interests, as I think I’ve updated you on. Currently, I believe it’s a great deal of combing through ancient books and references to strange creatures. As for Viktora… well, she’s Viktora. You know how she is.

JOHN: Nowadays, I’m not sure if I do. She hasn’t written in years.

NIKOL: Well, she’s always been… (gestures vaguely and unclearly. JOHN takes this as a hint to end the conversation)

JOHN: So, what brings you two out here?

KESHAN: Diplomacy.

JOHN: With who? (Jokingly) The seagulls?

NIKOL: With you

JOHN: What?

NIKOL: We’ve come to take you back

JOHN: Why?

KESHAN: Well, it looks to be for the wedding

JOHN: Who’s wedding?

NIKOL: Yours.

JOHN: Wait, but- I thought it was never going to happen! When I left, I assumed the engagement was over! After all, my family was ruined. There’s no point to it

NIKOL: Your family is two people. One of them was ruined, yes, but not you. You’ve taken on the title and the lands-

JOHN: lands I haven’t set foot on since I was a child and a title I’ve never used!

NIKOL: -and they are still lands and a title that the crown would much rather be added to their holdings rather than split up piecemeal and claimed by distant cousins

JOHN: I’m a traitor. An exile.

NIKOL: No. Your father is. You chose to go. (Softer, slightly sad) You chose to leave us

JOHN: Good god, Nikol, I was fourteen and had no idea what was going to happen to me. You can’t blame me for staying with all the family I had left

NIKOL: So you came here. To a falling down, haunted house at the end of the world.

JOHN: (laughs bitterly) The end of the world, eh? Funny, that’s what I’ve always called it. My father calls it Storm Watch when he’s in a good mood, “this cursed place” when he isn’t. The village calls it the Ghost’s Lighthouse, and the sailors do the same. But for me, that’s what it’s always been. A little island on the edge of the maps. A place where nothing matters. The end of the world. All that’s left to do is fall off the edge if you go any further. But I can’t go back. I’ve found some kind of peace out here, just us and the cliffs against storm and sea. It’s quiet. Different. And sure, half the walls are crumbling and the roof resists all attempts to fix it, but it’s home.

KESHAN: (casually rests a hand on his sword. JOHN hadn’t really noticed that he was wearing it, and is slightly startled) I don’t think you have much of a choice

JOHN: (Quiet, slightly angry) Keshan. Are you threatening me?

KESHAN: Not as such.

NIKOL: (rests a hand on KESHAN’s shoulder) (To KESHAN) Easy. You can’t blame him for being hesitant. (To JOHN) I’m sorry.

JOHN: I mean, he’s right. If it’s an order, I don’t have a choice. I am still your father’s subject, after all. And if you speak for him, I still have to obey. I’d rather not the entire family be damned as traitors.

NIKOL: I’d rather it not be an order. And I understand. You care for this place. You care for your father.

JOHN: But I still have to go

NIKOL: The engagement is still in place

JOHN: I see. I suppose I should go speak to my father, then

NIKOL: I am sorry. I don’t want to have to take you from your home

JOHN: But you are

NIKOL: But alas, I am. Because I am nothing but a vessel of someone else’s will

JOHN: Then if you two don’t mind, I’ll ask you to wait.

NIKOL: Of course.

JOHN turns and leaves the room in a different direction. NIKOL and KESHAN glance at one another before leaving the room through the door they came in through. All is silent for a moment, before TRICKSTER and THE ARCANE RIFTS appear. They are dressed in a manner utterly unlike anything logical or normal, and their very presence seems to change the energy of the room

RIFTS: So. He’s leaving.

TRICKSTER: Fun.

RIFTS: Certainly not. He’s safe here. Everyone else is safe when he’s here.

TRICKSTER: and that’s no fun!

RIFTS: I hate you

TRICKSTER: I hate you, too

RIFTS: why are you always here?

TRICKSTER: I’m your divine punishment

RIFTS: for what?

TRICKSTER: Being annoying. Our souls are bound, darling. We’re two sides of the same coin. I exist to annoy you. So you can’t complain.

RIFTS: yes I can.

Both go silent for a moment

TRICKSTER: So it begins

RIFTS: So it does

END SCENE

[5and3nevermind]

Yoonmin and their special hats

I don’t put a lot of emphasis on matching items, particularly if those items are worn for photo shoots, concerts, or other times when stylists are involved. However, there are two matching-items moments that I do see as significant.

One example is yoonmin’s set of matching plaid shirts which they wore when they went live with Jin. And the other? Their special hats!!!!

They have worn these hats at the same time…

…and separately:

They clearly associate the hats with one another. Yoongi once referred to them as “the hats Jimin and I often wear.”

Perhaps most importantly, Jin (and then Hobi) referred to them as couple hats, according to papago and google and @/syubjim. The official subs translated it as “matching caps.”

As soon as Jin pointed this out, Jimin smiled and walked over to stand next to Yoongi:

Yoongi explained that Jimin “got what I was buying.” In other words, Yoongi wanted to buy the hat, Jimin bought the hat, and Yoongi still went ahead and got the hat. (Below, you can see the word in parentheses near Yoongi is translated as “cold,” but “cool” or “calm” is an alternate translation.)

Despite this conversation, they both continued to wear the hat for the rest of the rehearsal, so if this was an accident or they didn’t enjoy matching, I assume one or both of them would have removed their hats.

Jimin most recently wore the hat in 2023 at the airport on his way to Japan to film the travel show, while he was there, and at the airport on the way home.

What do matching items mean? And what do they mean once the guys know people view these matching items as significant, yet they keep wearing them? 🤔

(I’ve posted about their special hats before, but I don’t like the way I set up that post, so I tried again!)

“couple hat” screenshots from Love Yourself: Speak Yourself: the final in Seoul dvd; cr: 3cmgoogie

[sarucane]

Stede's *sob* Last Story (Kinda)

(Parentheses in title because I'm a big believer in stories having a life of their own, and hell this is the kind of thing where a cast would agree to a movie in 10 years, and that's before we get to fanfic...but as far as OFMD the tv show goes, this is the last one)

Stede's last story doesn't really begin with him. It begins with Ed.

Ed's the one who's suggested being innkeepers. Who decided he wanted to stay on this island, to set aside the impossible bird and rest on land. Ed's adding one more story to his cacaphony of contradictory stories. But this one isn't an extreme "I'm THIS now, and my name is JEFF." It isn't a death, or a personality shift. It's a story he'd like to "give a go."

Stede used to be so obsessed with his own stories that he couldn't--or didn't dare--see what others thought of them. He had to learn to set some stories aside, in order to live the life he wanted to live.

And that's just what he's done here. The life he wants to live is one with Ed, and this is the life Ed needs to live.

This is the story Ed's telling. So, Stede tells it too. With his whole heart, and no second thoughts, none of the doubts and fears that plagued him for so long.

Stede may be binding himself to land now, to Ed, but he's more free than he's ever been--to tell any story he wants.

Ed is more scared than Stede. Is too willing, as always, to tell a story that devalues himself.

But Stede takes that story and transforms it. Because telling a story together is far, far more powerful than telling a story alone.

So Stede takes Ed's story and transforms it. Into something full of honest hope. No more buying a boat and crew and pretending to be a pirate hoping it'll change him; no more clinging to vision without action. The house needs work. The relationship needs work. The story won't become reality all by itself.

But it can.

And I love that Ed doesn't quite engage with this (yet). That even now at what turns out to be the end, he's still a bit more uncertain than Stede because he's just not as secure as Stede yet. Because that's honest.

Instead, Ed focuses on the practical. On needing some food , on the need for a bit of violence.

But that doesn't change Stede's story. And neither does the crappy smell awaiting them inside.

This is a story of hope. And it can shape reality. A heap of painted wood can be a real boy, and a terrible smell can be a smell of the future.

And Stede holds true to that long enough for Ed to finally join in telling this story. To say, "love that," and stop trivializing or devaluing the story he wants to tell.

And then Stede says "Me too." They're in the same place, telling the same story.

And then--now that the story has legs, now that the core truth of love is where it belongs, at center --Stede doesn't cling to perfection, to completeness. He doesn't try to pretend the smell is nice, or doesn't bother him.

He embraces reality, and goes about doing what needs to be done to make the important story true.

A seabird to land; a unicorn still standing in defiance of everything and everyone; two mad queers packed with insecurity and trauma finding love and peace together.

A last story, gently setting aside any ugliness of reality, kindly shoring up insecurities, and seducing its listener into becoming another storyteller.

Stede's stories carried him from one family, to another, to one last and truest family. The one he chose, with both eyes open. Took him to a home he'll build with his own hands, alongside his love.

It's story that will shape his reality--and that of those who trust him--forever. A story he'll tell, forever.

Because now, he can. He knows how.

And he won't do it alone.

[luckytohavebucky]

The "SamBucky" 'shipping is problematic.

Practically my whole feed or whatever was about how "SamBucky" is "canon" because Bucky said "I love you" to Sam, but that "buddy" was clearly not meant in a romantic way (and I know Bucky called Steve "buddy" when Bucky is in love with him but the context/Bucky's tone is very different where it's so obvious he wants to confess his love but realises it's better to respect Steve's part in that which Steve must've appreciated what with undoubtedly being able to tell how Bucky felt too) nor was it any sort of not wanting to be as direct, just... Anthony was saying about this too like how sad it is that men can't have a close, emotional bond without it being made out to be something it's not when the other problem with that is how it like cheapens actual romantic relationships between 2 men since if "everybody's gay" then "nobody's gay", right?! Well... wrong, I mean... of course it doesn't work like that; using terms like " queer platonic", "situationship", or plain 'shipping individuals that shouldn't be shipped is disrespectful as it is, but there's also the glaring fact that this only happens with men, which people claim to be open-minded then can't just let men hug or rest on each other when if women do that as friends then no one assumes anything, and I just get so pissed off at how "progessive" people think they're being when nothing could be further from the truth; let men love each other in however way they do, be it a platonic, brotherly way such as in the case of Sam and Bucky or a romantic way nothing should be insisted upon or expected that isn't blatantly shown or said where there's no mistaking it or at least truly, properly implied, then far as subtlety there keeps being those who somehow got the impression Bucky doesn't know how to act in the world when he's literally been free for nearly 10 years now altogether so clearly would understand how things work anymore; he chose to be a congressman for heaven's sake, and it's not like people didn't figure out ways back in "Bucky's time", not to mention there's nothing to even indicate whether that was ever like frowned upon in the MCU, but either way Bucky would be able to tell if Sam had feelings for him because like I said (above in the parentheses), Bucky is very empathetic, and if Bucky felt the same way he'd reciprocate and this would've happened years ago instead of their supposedly leading each other on for all this time seeing as Bucky absolutely has shown his emotions/even says how he feels to 1 degree or another when he knows he can rely on someone, except neither Sam nor Bucky feels that way; there's no pretense; they really are just very good friends; and not everything has to be read into.

[not-krys]

WIP Wednesday: Miri Receives the Ring of Light

What had started off as a well-intended effort to make notes of various lessons so I can use them for inspo points for Miri, turned itself into a fic while in the process of note-taking.

Not even sorry. It was, as Bob Ross calls them, a happy accident.

As such, I'm putting this under the category of a WIP Wednesday as I have intentions to make a fic based on this scene in particular, this just needs be reworked so that it can be fic and not just glorified notes.

Raw, unedited writing down below, Major spoilers for OG Obey Me Season 2's end (lesson 38 specifically), angst-flavored, some of it might seem choppy as it originally started as note-taking (and I also add in some thoughts and asides in parentheses), I made Solomon a little harsher than he was in the original as this was written before I had fully came over to the liking Solomon side of the fandom and I guess it hadn't clicked for me yet that Solomon is a silly softie sometimes, especially towards MC, and I'm kinda regretting that here, him staring down Lucifer not so much that can stay forever thanks, colored text is also featured in the original scene so I thought it was fitting to include it as well.

----------

Lucifer is still experiencing amnesia and answers Mammon's challenge to a card game. If Mammon wins, he gets unlimited use of Lucifer's credit card for a day. Lucifer wagers that if he wins, he gets to spend a day with MC/Miri. Mammon is flustered by this but still agrees to those conditions.

In the end, Lucifer wins and gets his day with Miri. A passing Solomon informs them of a traveling carnival in town and their last day was today, so if they wanted to get in on this, they'd better do it today. He also says that he'd like talk to Miri later, as he didn't want to interrupt their date. (Foreshadowing much, Solyman?)

(Insert carnival date shenanigans that I'll def look up later, lol)

When Miri returns to the House of Lamentation, she finds Solomon in her room, waiting for her, with the Night Dagger resting innocently on the table before him. (def not sus at all, Solyman)

Solomon tells Miri how the Night Dagger would be a way to sever her bonds with the seven brothers so she can stop her powers from going completely whack, but it's not as powerful as it used to be. The only way for it to get back to full power is to kill a powerful demon with it, namely one of Lucifer's caliber, if not Lucifer himself.

Miri is shaken. Would she have to kill Lucifer in order to save herself and the Three Realms?

No, she refuses and pushes the knife back towards Solomon.

"No, I refuse to kill him. I can't kill him! I won't!"

"Miriam. You have to."

"There has to be another way! Any other way, Solomon, please!"

"The fate of the Three Realms, and your life, is in your hands right now," he said, his voice steady. He pushes the knife towards her again. "The fate of many over the life of one. Surely you can't be that selfish, Miriam."

"Any. Other. Way. Solomon. Something other than that!"

"I'm sorry, Miriam. I've already exhausted every other avenue. It's this or losing everyone and everything you've come to hold dear."

Her head hurt, and her eyes burned with tears. She smacked the knife off the table, making it clatter and spin on the floor.

"Another. Way. Solomon."

"Mir-"

The door slammed open, Lucifer's scowl darkening the room. Both humans looked up.

"I couldn't shake the feeling that something was going on here that I wouldn't like, so I decided to come see what was going on."

Lucifer moves to put himself between Miri and Solomon, pushing her behind him.

"Is what you said true?"

"…Yes, I'm sorry."

Lucifer glanced back at Miri, still with tears in her eyes and holding her head, clearly upset and in a lot of pain.

"That's enough for now, Solomon. Go home."

"Wait, hold on, we're not finished here-"

"Leave. Now."

Solomon furrows his brow, staring down the demon. Lucifer glared back at him, refusing to let him even look at Miri.

"Fine." Solomon sighed. "We'll continue this tomorrow."

"We'll see about that." Lucifer still stared him down, making sure he was completely out of the room before turning toward Miri, guiding her to the bed. He also eyes the dagger on the floor, now close to the both of them.

Miri sits, still clutching her head, whimpering.

"Miriam, look at me."

"I… I don't want to kill you. I don't… I don't…."

Lucifer looks on, helpless, as she clutches her head.

"Look at me, please."

She struggles but finally manages to get one eye open, seeing that damned dagger again, this time in Lucifer's hands. His face had turned gentle.

"No…. no no no….Lucifer!"

"I may not have all of my memories any more, but the strongest feeling of wanting to protect you and my brothers still remains."

"No, no please…"

"To protect you is the strongest feeling of all. So, if it means you don't have be hurting anymore. To make sure that you're safe and not in pain anymore…"

He places the blade in her hands and aims the tip to his heart, wrapping his hands firmly around hers.

"Right here. Stab me as hard as you can."

"NO!" Her hands shook, struggling to pull away. "You don't need to die! There has to be another way! I don't want to kill you!"

"Save everyone, Miriam."

"What world is worth living in without you in it!? It's me that's the cause of all of this! I should be the one to die, not you!"

"Don't talk like that."

"You don't talk like that!"

Her hands shook, both with struggling against him to turn the blade away and with fear, her heart beating loudly in her ears.

"Don't do this, Miriam."

"No!"

"Kill me!"

"No!"

"DO IT!"

"STAY!"

Their shared pact mark glowed on Miri's chest, her tears glimmering in the cool blue light. Lucifer grunts, brought further down on his knees, but not fully on the floor like the spell had done before. Lucifer chuckled.

"You're not calm, Miri. You can't concentrate on the spell enough to fully bring me down. All that new power and all you can do is bring me to my knees."

Her hands were moving again, but not of her own volition. Her arms were tense and sore, trying desperately to pull away from Lucifer.

"Lucifer," Miri pleaded weakly. "Lucifer please…"

"Take care of my brothers for me, alright?"

He leaned towards her, as though he meant to give her a small kiss goodbye. The tip of the dagger barely pressed over his own heart, only making a small indent in his clothes.

"And… don't forget to take of yourself. I love you."

"LUCIFER!!!"

The next few seconds were a blur. Miri closed her eyes tightly, her hot tears burning her cheeks. She choked on the last syllable of Lucifer's name.

Her hands were moving again, but not in a direction she was expecting.

They were moving towards her. As if another set of hands was pulling on her wrists. They were warmer than Lucifer's hands but she still felt the familiar texture of gloves.

Miri dared a glance down to see black gloves pulling on her wrists. And not the black gloves of Lucifer's hands.

She then saw a white sleeve at the corner of her eye, the same as if an angel wing had caught her attention.

All three sets of hands were moving in her next blink, the Night Dagger flying across the room once again, clattering unceremoniously on the floor as it had the first time.

Miri then felt arms wrap around her, pulling her into a warm hug.

"It's all okay now." A soft, familiar voice whispered in her ear. "There's no need for that anymore."

"Simeon-"

"You've been very brave, Miri. I can't imagine how hard this has been for you."

"Simeon, what are you-" Lucifer started, seeing the angel take gentle hold of Miri's left hand.

"Now then, I have a little something here for you."

Simeon then slipped an old ring onto her finger, blinding light blasting through the room once it settled. Miri slumped suddenly, her body rolling forward. Simeon and Lucifer caught her before she hit the floor.

"Miri!" Lucifer called her name and wretched her away from Simeon, cradling her in his arms. "Miri, say something!"

She didn't say anything. Lucifer shook her.

"Damn it, Miri, say something!"

He placed one of his fingers into his mouth, smoothly pulling off his glove and placed two fingers on her neck, sighing in relief when he felt her pulse still beating strong. He then held her mouth to his ear, feeling her faint breathing tickling him.

"Still breathing."

"Thank goodness." said Simeon, kneeling beside the pair, trying to get a closer look. Lucifer glared at him as he pulled Miri closer to him, livid barely adequate enough to describe the anger in his eyes.

"What, in the three realms, did you do?!"

Simeon leaned back and held his hands up, almost overwhelmed by Lucifer's ire.

"Let's call it a back up plan if the Night Dagger idea failed."

"The Ring of Light, Simeon! My Ring of Light! How did you even find it?! It was lost in the war! How did you even-!"

Thankfully for Simeon, Miri stirred again, distracting Lucifer from questioning the angel any further.

"Lu…ci…fer?"

"Miri!"

Her eyes were slow to come into focus, barely aware of hearing the other brothers coming into her room to worry over her. Lucifer's voice was the clearest of all, as it always was.

"Would all of you just SHUT UP?!" He nearly shouted, "Or would you rather end up on your faces again when Miri uses the Stay command on you!?"

'Lucifer's memory came back,' Miri thought faintly. 'Thank goodness…'

She tried to sit up, to reassure everyone that she was okay, but her strength failed her, falling back into Lucifer's arms, startling him and her other brothers.

"…ring's affects… strong for… her rest for now…." she faintly heard Simeon saying gently, his words broken up in her fatigue.

"…the Chihuahua… look… fter her." Lucifer's voice wasn't reaching her either, her consciousness leaving her again as soon as she felt her cool pillows next to her. She could also faintly sense when Luke was nearby though not knowing exactly when he was around. Lucifer stayed with her through the night, cradling her again as sweet dreams enveloped her, finally free of the headaches that had been plaguing her for weeks. She was finally feeling good again.

[esa-marie]

ARTFIGHT BUTTONS!!!!!

They're totally free to use w/ or without credit!!

General use instructions under cut!!!!

So. This may be a bad explanation but ill try my best. To insert these w/ bbcode you'll need two things: a link rotator, and an image address link.

For the link rotator, I use https://sig.grumpybumpers.com/. Make sure to save or store your username and password somewhere bc that's where you get access to the list it rotates through. Imput as many character links as you want, and submit them to your custom link.

Now, whenever you use that link, it will select a random one from your inputs and automatically redirect. Its pretty nice.

Then, to attach this link to an image rather than text, use the bbcode (what artfight uses, make sure to toggle on to see the bbcode, it'll make this easier):

[Url=imagerotatorlink][img]imgbuttonlink[/img][/url]

You can grab these images and host them on another site to grab an image address (like imgur or filegarden) or you can use the ones stored from Tumblr (right click and 'copy image address'). Then, just imput the randomizer link and the image address and then you have a button!!!

To explain a little more what the bbcode is actually doing, for those who aren't as familiar, think of each statement in brackets as an "(". [Url=blahblahblah] [/url] is telling bbcode to attach the link to whatever is in the middle of the parentheses. Then, if you call to an image (with [img] imglink [/img] its effectively pulling the image from its host, and displaying it within the hyperlink.

Im not that good at explaining so lmk if this didn't make any sense!!!

Enjoy!!!

[sinfulequity]

Swing and...A miss!

Mikoto’s door is finally here!

Along with the announcement of his cover song and his voice drama name; how fun~

Now onto actually analyzing this thing lmao (Gunsli/Archivalofsins and I both worked really hard on structuring and formatting this thing)

TL;DR- Neoplasm is a fitting evolution from John Doe for both personalities within Mikoto. It is fitting for the one we’re familiar with due to the abrupt change in perception and the one we found out about afterwards because they are becoming more active/growing more defined as Milgram progresses. There are a lot of horror elements involved in Mikoto’s song and previous mv that both of us are excited to see elaborated on in Double. The door is likely based on some sort of operating room and the lettering of the song title in English is probably referring to division.

I.            The Title

Firstly, I want to go over how the title is formatted in English! Initially I was thinking of it in writing terms (i.e. how parentheses are used to add clarifying information to a sentence).

A parenthesis is a word, phrase, or clause inserted into a sentence as an explanation or afterthought. When a parenthesis is removed, the surrounding text is still grammatically sound. A parenthesis is usually offset with parentheses (i.e., round brackets), commas, or dashes. These are called parenthetical punctuation marks. A parenthesis is sometimes called an "interrupter" as it interrupts the flow of text.

Examples of them are:

·         Andrew Jacklin (last year's losing finalist) is expected to win this heat.

·         The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary. (Journalist HL Mencken)

When parentheses (round brackets) are used to offset a parenthesis, the parenthesis is easily seen. However, some writers feel that parentheses can make formal texts look unorganized.

There are more links above, outside of the meaning, usage and formatting of parenthesis. If you’re interested, you can go through it all to see the way that grammar and formatting can help explain/emphasize a point! Being informed on this, at the very least, will be helpful for those that wish to more critically engage with and analyze written media.

Applying this logic to the English title of Mikoto’s second trial song, further emphasizes Mikoto being MeMe. As it can literally be read as Double I’m MeMe. Due to the lack of punctuation, this can be interpreted as both a statement and a question.

Something alluded to by Mikoto’s expression. However, this isn’t the only way it can be read!

We’ve had addition,

“Clothes Food Shelter + Love and Miss.”

We’ve had subtraction,

“Loving Affection (minus) Love, it’s tacky, this two-way deceit.” (Also, another effective use of parentheses.)

Now get ready for-

Division

Yep, the way I’m (MeMe) is written should be familiar to anyone who knows basic Algebra. Because this is exactly how basic division problems are shortened within that form of math and others.

Some examples,

This serves to follow up on what we were told within MeMe,

“Split in half, make that heart beat.”

Since that’s exactly what division is all about

“Division is a mathematical operation which involves the separating of an amount into equal-sized groups.”

Regardless of the outcome it will always be balanced and through recombining those groups will equal the whole. This is why any single number divided by itself equals one because it is equally distributed down. This is why uneven numbers when divided usually have solutions that are not integers as well. The exception being when they’re divided by themselves or by 1.

The point of division is breaking something down into equal parts that can be put back together to get the number you divided by.

For example,

7/2=3.5

89/2=44.5

In either scenario if one were to add this number to itself (essentially combining the two halves) it would make the number that was divided. Add forty-four point five to forty-four point five, to get eighty-nine and three point five to three point five to get seven.

Division is all about figuring out what number added to itself as many times as the number it is being divided by will equal out to the number that is being divided. So, in the case of our first two examples where we are dividing by two doubling the number we get will equal out to what we divided.

A more on topic example would be dividing Mikoto’s prisoner number by two.

9/2= 4.5

Ultimately, this would just be another way of stating something we know about Mikoto already. That he is the ninth prisoner within Milgram.

Let’s use Mikoto’s prisoner number in another division example,

9/3= 3

In multiplication three multiplied by itself equals nine, as many know. However, that doesn’t equate to three overall but three groups of three. Basically being,

3+3+3= 9

Only serving to further reiterate to us that Mikoto is the ninth prisoner overall. That’s just how math works. Now that we’ve gone over some rather basic math; what does the way they chose to organize the lettering on Mikoto’s second trial cd tell us?

Under this framing it could be read as Double I’m/(MeMe) or Double I’m divided by MeMe.

This could reflect that Mikoto’s current state of being is separated into these parts. Stating that these are the parts that make up I’m. Or to put it in math terms again I’m/(MeMe)= Y(X).

Get it because his first trial song quote is,

“Why?”

Also, because the solution, just like punctuation, isn’t here within the title. Something that further emphasizes this lyric in MeMe,

“Why, hey why, I’m nowhere to be found.”

In this case, the two me’s would be making up the I’m while being a source of division for it.

This way of reading it may allude to a disagreement between these two parts or just imply that both these parts are getting in the way of discovering “I’m” in some way breaking their overall sense of self down.

This is something, that has also been illustrated in Yamanaka’s tweet regarding the voice drama,

Which roughly translates to,

“I (ore) did it. I (boku) didn’t do it! You saw it through Milgram! What do you think?”

All this implies that we will more than likely be seeing Mikoto/and the other face this aspect of themselves along with the concept of identity in some way.

II.            The Door & Speculations on the Voice Drama Snippet

When it comes to Mikoto’s door, Gunsli and I couldn’t really agree on what it was. At first glance I thought it was an elevator door and she thought it was a train door. However, the door opens outwards while noticeably not being broken in any way that would force it to do so, illustrating that this door has hinges.

Meaning that both beliefs are incorrect.

Train doors also don’t have this on top,

This digital prompter is why I initially believed it was an elevator before taking into consideration how it opens. These words have been put on all the prisoner’s doors. However, they have always been in some way apart of them. This implies that this digital prompter is a part of the door, proper.

Making it more unlikely that these are the doors to a train. I’ve also seen speculation of it being a swing door (opening both outwards and inwards, which would be cool), but… given how fortified the frame is and how thick the doors themselves are… I find that highly unlikely.

The closest thing that we’ve come to a consensus on is actually…

Operating room doors (Operation Theatre Doors). Possibly, emergency operation ones? If this is it, I’m curious to what Mikoto’s MV is visually gonna be like. I think it would be hilarious if we didn’t get visceral imagery, but I don’t think that’s likely after taking into consideration the horror inspirations that can be noted within his previous trial (something we’ll go into later).

Those give his door a few more fun implications. Especially, if these are in fact operating room doors. This is because a lot of zombie/infection type horror movies take place in hospitals. If one were to look at his door through that sort of lens, wouldn’t it appear quite reminiscent to the doors seen at ground zero infection sites in virus or zombie genre horror flicks- The blood smeared on the door as people try to make their way in the glass smashed in hopes of reaching in and unlocking it or breaking a barricade. That airtight thick frame around the door. The likes of movies such as Contagion, 28 Days Later, or The Sadness. Warning for flashing lights on all these trailers by the way.

Outside of continuing these horror inspirations, operation room doors would be a good fit considering his voice dramas name as well. This time, the voice drama is called “Neoplasm”, which is not technically a word that exists, but does follow the format of a bunch of medical terms.

Now, I’m gonna rewind a little, because I haven’t given my opinion on the first trial voice drama name, “John Doe”, either (I promise this connects lol). John Doe applies to both personalities in Mikoto in different ways.

The Mikoto taken into Milgram (referred to within this section from now as Miko), is initially described as “mass goods”. In other words, an “everyman” or to quote Gunsli, “a dime a dozen”. Miko is an office worker, one of the most mundane jobs out there.

This touches on the fact that, like Gunsli has said previously, he could be replaced at any point without much trouble. As we know, John Doe is widely known to be used as a generic name/placeholder in order to withhold details from the larger public.

Either that, or the details don’t exist.

The Mikoto we find out about after Milgram has started, proper, (referred to in this section as Koto), is someone we don’t have an identifying “tag” for. The only (overt) way we know that Koto is out is that he has different behavioural mannerisms and vocabulary.

Even then, his use of personal pronouns seemed to be the same as Miko’s in MeMe, given the line:

“I” will save “me”.

This line uses boku in both instances of a personal pronoun.

In this way, John Doe could be meant in its more formal way; where a body is called this when the identity hasn’t been verified yet.

Incidentally, did you know that John Doe used to be a court term?

Specifically, to hide the identity of a plaintiff in an ongoing court case. There’s also a counterpart called Richard Roe, that hides the identity of the defendant.

There is a mild but real possibility that Miko could be trying to implicate Koto as the perpetrator within his second voice drama to skirt taking responsibility for his actions. It has been brought to the audience’s attention that the prisoners can hear what the audience has been saying about them since the beginning of trial two.

Though Yuno is the most candid about it,

Absolute Zero Yuno Trial 2 Interrogation

“It’s fucking bothersome- I told you this from the start; didn’t I. There’s no end to how much people will punish each other outside of the law. Due to that I really had no interest in Milgram.”

Yes, I remember that. You told me that you wouldn’t pay my judgements any mind and just continue as you have been.

“Oh, that’s right; I’m happy you remembered! Yet, at that time, I didn’t exactly hate it…Milgram. Sure, this place is full of nothing but weirdos but it was much warmer than my day-to-day life at least.”

It did appear like you were having fun the last time we spoke.

“Yes, it was fun! Sure, they’re all murderers but they’re interesting people. They put me at ease a bit, there was just something nice about being around others who also seemed to have something missing in one way or another.”

You’re saying that changed because of me?

“Yep! The situation has become more bothersome than fun. Now all the novelty of it that I found fun at first has been overshadowed- So, I’ve chilled out now that’s all.”

…

“And…Are you satisfied with this situation?”

Everyone within Milgram is a murderer, to the extent of clarifying the information I’ve been handed, to understand your sins… This job, my role, is necessary. Milgram will pull to the forefront not just your essences but the truths that lie within.

“Who are you trying to convince with that? Do those feelings and observations of yours not hold up unless you repeat them over and over again to yourself?”

…!

“You want to find the truth…huh? Pf…Haha!”

Yes, of course, as the guard of Milgram finding the truth of the matter is integral to correctly judging your sins-

“It’s the result of A LOOOOT OF sugar-babying: abortion.”

…!

“That’s probably my murder. Well have it, go and partake of the truth you were seeking so badly.”

…

“How is it, as good as you thought? Are you satisfied? If so, can we be done already?”

Yuno…you…

“You don’t surprise easily, do you? As I thought, you knew it from the song extraction.”

Well, yes, I considered it as one of many possibilities. However, that is the one I believed was most likely. Taking into account Milgram’s lack of specifications concerning the terms murderer and murder alongside it acting outside of common law I could not overlook the possibility it could interpret such a thing as murder.

“Yes, I’m sure. Well, more to say, I had this inkling that was your way of thinking. I could feel it.”

You could feel it…you say?

“Feel it, hear it, all throughout Milgram it’s probably the same with the others as well. Voices talking, observing, poking their noses into things that they ought not to and then discussing my sins.”

Something like that…

“Were those not the sort of thoughts you were having or something? It’s not as if I can really know for sure after all.”

…I don’t know. I wasn’t informed that Milgram could have that sort of impact. It is true I decided to forgive you with that thought in mind. However, that decision is only provisional.

“Haaa….”

…

“Well, then now I’ll tell you the second reason I’m so chilled out! Yaaay!!”

…

“You’re bad at going with the mood, huh.”

I’m starting to lose what little grasp I had on the type of person you are.

“You know it’s dull if you get too serious all the time.”

Noted. Continue.

“My second chillout reason simply put is the fact I was forgiven.”

What?

“Well, to get specific, it isn’t the fact I was forgiven itself but…”

I don’t understand. Just state it plainly.

“Hm…well then, should I just tell you what I heard in my head, what those incessant voices were saying. “Because she’s pitiful.”, “There’s no doubt, she definitely had some sort of reason for doing it.”, “She’s probably this way because there were problems in her home life.”, “She just doesn’t know love yet!” Ah…! “Because of that… I’ll forgive her!”.”

It's true that my decision was impacted by that sort of analogical reasoning and those are all things I considered.

“Ah, yes, yes… Well, and I have to stress this is going to purely and fully my own personal opinion but- I find making those sorts of assumptions preachy and unpleasant!”

…

“It’s all worthless. Deciding that I’m pitiful, making up a backstory for me, creating this personal idealized version of me- This acceptable version of me that you can feel good looking at. Aa..h- They exist you know the sort of people who do that. Those sorts of people have never will never do anything for me.”

Yuno..

“I’m not pitiful, my family gets along great, and I’m not particularly struggling financially. I decided to do what I did of my own free will because I felt it was necessary for me.”

-End of Transcript-

Tear Drop

“Just shut it, will you? You know it all.”

During her voice drama, Yuno explains and calls to attention this new phenomenon within Milgram. Both before and after her the other prisoners conveniently omit the specifics of the information they have heard. Kazui being the most egregious display of this, as he does not bring up hearing the voices at all and only responds to questions after gaining more clarity on the situation. His entire voice drama really comes off as though he’s just leading Es by the nose.

Taking into consideration what was established through her interrogation (the implication that all the prisoners have heard the prevailing theories about their cases) who’s to say Miko has not weaponized the information he’s heard? Omitting he heard it like the others and using it to push the blame more onto the other personality. Whom if we’re being frank would more than likely be willing to take the fall for him anyway.

However, the fact that this is said,

“I (ore) did it. I (boku) didn’t do it! You saw it through Milgram! What do you think?”

Very quickly showcases to me that the one speaking is Miko here not Koto. Koto in the snippet of Double we’ve been shown is questioning what’s wrong,

“Why are you crying?”

If Koto is not aware of what is negatively impacting Miko in the song proper, why would they know what Milgram saw or how Milgram reacted to it? A thing stated to be specific to prisoners beneath Milgram’s control.

This is something alluded to during the second trial commencement notice. At that time Jackalope tells us Koto has been free and unchained this entire time.

Exempt from the rules of Milgram and unable to have punishment administered to them. This means the voices all the prisoners have been hearing as part of their punishments or rewards would not impact him.

So, once again, I ask- How the fuck would he know that anyone saw anything through Milgram? Especially the specific implication and pervasive theory that it was them (Koto) who committed the murders.

Something that gives more credence to this idea is how Koto has even interpreted the song,

“I should have saved you but why are you crying? Rely on me, praise me with your song, I am your saviour.”

As a form of praise and a way in which Miko is relying on him. Simply as if Koto doesn’t see a thing wrong with what was displayed on top of not knowing what is upsetting Miko.

How much Koto knows about the song and Milgram’s response to it is rather questionable as we’ve been expressly told he is not a prisoner proper yet.

This possible way of handling the situation on Miko’s part is oddly reminiscent to how the Devil within Not A Devil attempts to convince the viewers they’re good through lines like,

“Another clandestine rendezvous with myself. Drained, oh so drained, introspection and in prayer.”

MeMe

“Snuggle together and say, “Good night” switch, shake up that brain.”

“The minus energy that I swallowed hugged me.”

Double (though official translation liable to change)

“I should have saved you but why are you crying? Rely on me, praise me with your song, I am your saviour.”

“No worries, no worries everything’s fine. This is just a silly joke.”

Trial 1 Voice Drama

“Of course, I want to think of all this as a joke…Wouldn’t anyone?”

“Calm down, that’s just a rumor.”

MeMe

“I won’t forgive you if this is happening to me even though I’m right.”

“All those ridiculous accusations.”

“Now shut up and give me your signature. Not a devil, I’m not a devil. So, sayeth the devil.”

MeMe

“I’m probably not to blame, it’s probably nothing.” – “Why am I here?  It must be a mistake, right?”

Taking the court terminology, Miko implicating Koto as the culprit with his denial firmly puts him in the role of John Doe (plaintiff) and Koto in the position of Richard Roe (defendant). Beginning a back and forth of finger pointing where Miko implicates the other and Koto can either deny the accusation or accept it.

This makes his second voice dramas title “Neoplasm” very apt naming. Because over the course of Milgram, the mold (interpretation) Mikoto was put under as this every man, silly little office worker caricature has been reshaped into to something new and abnormal.

Miko’s possible response to this new perception of his character being pretending to be Koto to fit this new shape he’s been given within the voice drama while attempting to save face isn’t surprising coming from him. He would know that Koto uses ore as well. Since, the audience has repeated it consistently over the course of the intermission. If Miko has been hearing the audience, as has been implied, it’d be very difficult for him to not be made aware of how Koto behaves.

Taking into consideration how much the other has been discussed, drawn, and written about. It has been more than shown that the prisoners know our speculations, in regard to their cases, and they’ve all been shown making attempts to confirm the validity of the statements they’ve heard over the course of their voice dramas. As such, there is a real possibility that Miko has heard the argument that the other committed the murders and he is in fact an innocent harmless individual.

Information that he’d rightfully take advantage of in this situation. Because it’d be a bit more difficult for people to condemn an innocent and harmless individual. Even if the other one did it and the only way to punish Koto was through punishing Miko a few people would be hesitant about doing such a thing. Simply put it would feel wrong to do as it’s dragging down a blameless individual just to get to someone who for all we know may not be at fault either.

We now find ourselves in a very classic dilemma-

MeMe

“The truth will come to reveal itself. I won’t forgive you if this is happening to me even though I’m right.”

“The truth will come to reveal itself. I will NEVER forgive you if this is happening to me even though I’m right.”

“So, I will NEVER forgive you if this is happening to me even though I’m right.”

At this point, or maybe even from the beginning, they’ve just been in a finger pointing competition. And things are only about to get messier.

III.            Voice Drama Title

Now back to the title of the voice drama “Neoplasm” (orz). Remember how I said Neoplasm isn’t technically a word? Well, it’s technically not and is.

As many were quick to point out, Neoplasm refers to a new and abnormal growth of tissue within the human body that could either be benign or malignant. It’s a term to describe the discovery of new tissue growth such as a tumour that was not previously present. However, when this occurrence is discussed, the individual neoplasm is rarely referred to by name instead the phenomenon is usually referred to and discussed as “Neoplasia”.

As you can see in these lists of Human Anatomy & Physiology: Latin and Greek Word-Parts plasm is not included as a suffix.  

Now this may seem like semantics. However, it’s incredibly important to differentiate between these two terms. Neoplasms are the result of Neoplasia. Neoplasia is when neoplasms are formed. Through naming the voice drama Neoplasm Yamanaka plainly stated that a Neoplasm has formed but Neoplasia, the act of it forming, has not been observed.

Through using this term instead of the one usually used in cases of observing (discovering) this new tissue and the process of its formation this comes off as saying though an abnormality has been observed it was present when the patient arrived. Again, unlike in the case of observing Neoplasia when doctors usually go okay this was not here several months ago but it’s here now.

Meaning, the Neoplasm is more than likely not entirely new but it shouldn’t be there, and it wouldn’t normally be there.

Let’s move onto word roots and meanings.

Now we know that Neo has an etymology from Greek

"New, Young, Recent," from Greek neos and "new, young, youthful; fresh, strange; lately, just now," from PIE root *newo-. In the physical sciences, caeno-, ceno- is used in the same sense. Paleo- is an antonym of these terms.

However, modern day definitions of the word (Yes, I said definitions!) are a bit different,

As it can mean “something new” or “new or recent, or in a modern form”.

For example, within Ace Attorney there’s a show called the “The Steel Samurai” the location of this show is stated to be Neo Olde-Tokyo. A new/revived version of old Tokyo. In this case the use of Neo and Olde together better highlight the intricacies of this word.

A more recent example of this would be NEOTWEWY. The title of the revival/follow-up game telling us out the gate this is something new built on the foundation of The World Ends With You (TWEWY). It is also, canonically, a remade form of Shibuya that Joshua made at the end of the original base game. Albeit, one made to be pretty much the same as the original.

So, while the immediate thought would be that it’s something new, it could also mean that it’s something that’s been reformed and shown as “new” that way. Something I’m sure that Miko is fully aware of. In fact, I’d say anything in reference to him would be more likely to use a pop culture meaning! Especially when you take into account his active attempts to keep up with the times and be seen as popular.

Plasm, however, has two roots in terms of etymology: Latin and Greek. In Latin, its root means “mold”. In Greek, it means “something formed”/“formation” or “to shape”.

The term also has modern-day definitions!

The first one is,

“formative or formed material (as of a cell or tissue)”

But there’s also

“Any of the components of protoplasm”

Protoplasm being the building blocks for all life on a cellular level.

In medical science it can also be used as a prefix and a suffix, but let’s focus on the suffix here.

Suffix meaning living substance, tissue.

These definitions of plasm may seem similar, but there is a difference in nuance. The first definition listed here refers to it as the material itself, specifying that it’s used in cells/tissues. The second one refers to the fact that they act as smaller parts to a whole (the whole in this case being the -cellular- foundation of life).

And the third one focuses on what the material makes as a whole. In other words, living substances and/or tissues.

Let’s move back to Koto. Well, we don’t know that much about him, right? Except, since the last trial ended, it’s been stated that he’s shown up more often. This includes in the trial two website voice lines, somewhere we’ve never seen him before! This, in addition to the usage of ore in the Double preview, seem to indicate that he’s solidifying more of an identity for himself.

Going back to the topic of the lettering choices on the CD cover real quick; specifically the division idea brought up earlier. Considering I’m as the whole and Miko and Koto as (MeMe) in this framework once again reiterates that Koto may possibly be growing a sense of identity outside of Miko and vice versa. Since Miko may be growing a more solid sense of identity as well after becoming aware of the other. You know, something you could also put as separating/dividing from Miko?

Neoplasms themselves aren’t really a big deal unless it turns out they are cancerous. In fact, benign ones are extremely common.

This is something that is once again rather fitting for Mikoto’s character and the implementation of it within Milgram. Allow me to elaborate, Mikoto as a character has subverted expectations from his first trial. There is a clear pattern with him of taking things that are usually considered normal and distorting them into something easily perceived as extreme, odd, or out of the norm.

Turning the mundane into the terrifying, a very common thing done within the horror genre.

This is one of the reasons Gunsli finds it very exciting that his second trial will be releasing in October. As it’s not just the month of his birthday but Halloween. So, she’s really hoping for some more horror inspired imagery with all those very common horror lighting tropes.

IV.            Horror Influences

From static effects,

To flat lighting from a television,

Those fisheye lens sort of shot at the beginning,

Then there’s this shot,

and the usage of both anamorphic lenses and vignetting.

(Side note; if you want to look more into how lighting utilized in horror, check out this video- x)

The atmospheric lens allows the lighting to look more ethereal. This, on top of the colouring used for the lights, makes the overall shot feel cold and liminal. The usage of a wide shot also emphasises this feeling of isolation.

In addition, the pillar at the foreground on his right makes him look crowded in while the emptiness to his left highlights how alone he is. This is also where the victim comes in from. The framing and direction here make it look as though the victim is cornering Mikoto.

That combined with the vignetting, makes the shot the visual equivalent of being “between a rock and a hard place”. This is likely a representation of how Miko was feeling at the time of the crime; trapped and as if he had to do this to survive.

Leading into another point, the way that all of the shots in MeMe are set up. Is something I find interesting, because a lot of them are ones usually used for victims/horror protagonists. Something that contrasts wildly with both his crime and how callously it’s shown. This puts Mikoto in the interesting position of both predator and prey.

For Gunsli this is all the stuff that just makes a horror fan go, “Yeah, this guy... This guy fucking watches horror movies for fun doesn’t he.” while everyone else who’s normal and hasn’t watched almost every horror movie they had access to goes how do you know this- Just for her to respond with, “I’m not the one on trial here he’s the fucking murderer; this ain’t about me!”.

All while managing to draw attention to and show off Mikoto’s genuine love and eye for photography. Possibly even nodding towards a bit of an interest in cinematography.

Q.07 What are your hobbies?

Mikoto: shopping / darts / photography / cycling

Every shot in MeMe meticulously planned out and executed in a way startlingly similar to how his murders are alluded to have gone down.

All this makes it difficult for them to say the team doesn’t know what they’re doing when it comes to him. Mikoto’s character in general turns the benign into something cancerous or the mundane into something controversial. A skill that has made him the topic of many divisive conversations and instances in Milgram’s history.

The usage of neoplasm could also touch on how Koto was immediately stigmatized by most of the fandom. Just as everyone assumes the worst-case scenario from tumours showing up, they assumed the worst of Koto’s entire existence. From statements such as,

“Having a person with D.I.D being a murderer is bad rep” to “I can’t believe they gave someone with D.I.D a murderous personality again”.

All this, despite the fact we don’t know who committed the actual crime. Though we’re pretty sure it was Miko for multiple reasons Gunsli has covered elsewhere.

Closing remarks from Gunsli- It’s always fun to write with other people but it’s always the best when I get to write with Star. I initially came to her for help with this one because I was just in the worst of moods due to multiple circumstances. However, this wound up taking so long mostly because there was just so much to cover and talk about. Plus, we haven’t even went into his cover yet. I was rather excited about guessing Mikoto’s second trial cover song correctly~ However, in the excitement of that I made some rather hasty observations myself like guessing that the door was train doors. Luckily, I took a step back to observe it more and talked over a lot of things with Star. Hope people enjoy all of this and sorry for leaving the TL;DR to you Star.

Here’s my (Star’s) parting words. Or rather, image-

-We try and have fun here

[atelier-slime]

DRAGON QUEST'S LOCALIZATION SUCKS, ACTUALLY. PART 3

I have a theory of a somewhat conspiratorial nature: Whoever came up with the localized names for DQ's spells started working on it 5 minutes before getting off work for a long weekend. It's the only thing that makes sense. The naming conventions and entire system seem so hacked together and poorly though out that it was either a rush job or someone didn't care, and neither one bodes well for the localization as a whole.

To understand why it's so egregious though, we need to look at how other RPGs handle their spell names first. Probably the most well known one is Final Fantasy:

There's a very clear and consistent pattern here. Even if you've never played Final Fantasy before, you can easily intuit what the names of the spells I've left out are. Individual entries in the series might have slight variations to this pattern, but generally this is what's used across the entire series as well as spinoffs and spinoffs of spinoffs.

SMT takes this a step further by including prefixes that denote the number of targets:

This time I can leave out an entire row of names and you can still correctly guess what they're supposed to be because of the consistency, even with the minor variations for individual spell lines.

There's tons of other games that handle their spells like this (Disgaea and Skies of Arcadia off the top of my head), because this kind of pattern has multiple benefits. When spell names have a clear hierarchy to them players can pick them up quicker, and even recognize what a spell will do before ever using it. If you've already seen zio, bufu, and mabufu you can reasonably assume what mazio will do when you encounter it for the first time in game without having to read the spell description.

Another benefit of these particular examples? They're the same between the English and Japanese versions. Everything up there is just the romanji spelling of the Japanese name. Fans from all over the globe have a shared point of connection that can be understood regardless of the speaker's language.

So how does Dragon Quest handle its spell names? Let's look at the Japanese names first (with romanji in parentheses.)

Turns out there is no pattern in DQ! Some names get longer when they get stronger, some get shorter, some get prefixes, some get suffixes, some get both. There's no clear rhyme or reason to how the spells are named. And guess what? That's intentional! There's a really great interview with Yuji Horii and Robert Woodhead (one of the creators of Wizardry) where he explains this.

So, before I get to how the English localization handled things, just a quick recap: Horii specifically wanted the spell names to be

-Something the player can't immediately relate to

-Not an actual word in Japanese or English

-Enigmatic sounding

-Based off of onomatopoeia

-Different for each stage of spell

This isn't fan speculation or something. This is the man who came up with those names saying "This is how I came up with the names and these are the feelings I wanted to invoke in the player with them."

Okay, let's look at the English names now and see how many of the criteria they manage to meet.

-Something the player can't relate to? FAILED

-Not an actual word in Japanese or English? FAILED

-Enigmatic sounding? FAILED

-Based off of onomatopoeia? Sorta? I'll give them half points for this one, but there are some issues*

-Different for each stage of spell? Yes! Good job guys, 1.5/5 stars.

Things already look pretty dire at first glance, but the longer you stare at this and the more you think about it, the more nonsensical it becomes. I've intentionally left out the full wind and heal spell line. Based on the initial pattern we're given, you might logically assume they go Woosh > Wooshle > Kawoosh >Kawooshle and Heal > Healle > Kaheal > Kahealle. Those don't really roll off the tongue though. Luckily, whoever came up with these names noticed that too, which is why I assume this was done out of apathy or haste instead of incompetence.

Given how poorly the heal line fits the naming scheme, they went with Heal > Midheal > Moreheal > Fullheal. Awesome! We've established that we don't have to be married to the initial pattern, especially considering in the original Japanese, there is literally no pattern. **Whoever came up with this is making it up from scratch. None of it exists in the original Japanese.**

Anyway, how does the wind line go? Well first they go Woosh > Swoosh. Strong start! What comes next? Kaswoosh? Why? You already established that you're fine with breaking the pattern, and the first two don't fit it anyway. What's the final one? Kaswooshle? WHY? You already broke from the pattern because the -le sounded weird! There are 9 different elemental spell lines as of the most recent DQ game (Dragon Quest Monsters 3) and of those, a third of them are given different names because adding "-le" to the end sounds really awkward. (Splish > Splash, Bang > Boom, Woosh > Swoosh) Again, **Whoever came up with this is making it up from scratch. None of it exists in the original Japanese.** If a full third of the spells in the game don't mesh well with the pattern you came up with, maybe you need to go back to the drawing board? Or you could just shove every peg through the round hole, I guess.

It gets dumber when you take the non-elemental spells into account too. There's a line of non-damaging spells that can prevent enemies from spellcasting called Fizzle and Kafizzle, which you might notice is a single letter difference from the fire spell line up there. If you have two spells that do completely different things with almost identical names, you fucked up somewhere! It literally took me ten seconds to come up with potential different names while I was sitting here typing this. Hush and Shush! Mute and Mutle! It's not rocket science. Trying to force a pattern onto the spell names in this manner is absolutely a failure from a design perspective.

And that's just talking about the pattern! Time for the issues*!

There's a bunch of extremely questionable choices when it comes to the individual words they picked. Here's an experiment for you: Go find someone who has no exposure to Dragon Quest. Tell them there's a spell in the game called "Crackle," and then ask them to guess what element they think it might be. Nobody ever says ice. I've done this like a dozen times, and the most common answer I hear is electricity, followed by fire.

English doesn't have anywhere near the amount of extremely specific onomatopoeia that Japanese has. In Japan, meramera is the sound a fire makes. English doesn't have a set sound for fire. Fire can crackle. It can woosh. There's a ton of different words you can pick from, but I've never in my life heard a fire described as "frizzling." Fizzling? Sure. But I don't think Frizzle is a word outside of Magic School Bus. When I see "Frizz," the first association that comes to mind is "Freeze." I can't be the only one either.

There's a really cool talk by Mark Rosewater at GDC about lessons he's learned over the years, and one of the points he brings up is that players have a prebuilt set of notions that you as a designer can use to help get them invested in your game. If you've chosen your spell names so poorly that people assume the fire spell is an ice one and vice versa, something has gone horribly wrong.

And the fun doesn't stop there! Did you notice what the third tier of the fire spell is called in Japanese?

Hmm... Sounds familiar. I wonder what game it was introduced in?

I see. I see. Who was the final boss in DQ 3 again?

Huh. I wonder if that's relevant.

I feel like this one is such a huge red flag for the localization as a whole. You have one of the most iconic spells introduced in DQ3, far and away the most popular one in the series, named after the final boss of said game. Clearly that was intentional! In game, you'll unlock the spell Merazoma/Kafrizz before you ever even learn that Zoma exists. It's an extremely cool piece of worldbuilding, realizing that the spell you've been relying on all this time is actually his. It also makes him incredibly intimidating. Just how powerful is he if the strongest version of one of the most fundamental spells in the game is named after him? All of that gets chucked out the window in the English version.

There's an adage I've seen before when people talk about translation, which goes along the lines of: "When you translate anything, you need to start with the knowledge that you have already failed." No matter how hard you try, you'll never be able to perfectly capture all the nuance of the original work and translate it to another language. Aside from differences in grammar or words that only exist in one language, there's an entire wealth of cultural context and history that is impossible to impart.

I agree with this sentiment wholeheartedly! That's part of the reason why I'm interested in linguistics and other languages to begin with. But even if you're going to fail, there are degrees of failure and degrees of effort that change the outcome. If I leave the oven on too long and burn my pizza, that's a failure. If I forget about my pizza and the stove bursts into flames and burns down my entire house, that's also a failure. That doesn't mean they're both equally acceptable outcomes.

Sometimes I feel like all this is pretty nit-picky, but the more I dig into it, the more it seems like DQ's current localization is nothing but millions of nits in a trench coat. At the end of the Day, Squeenix is an international corporation. They're going to maximize their profits while minimizing the amount of money they have to spend. That makes it extremely likely that the people they hire to do the job are going to be the ones who will do it as quickly and as cheaply as possible. And even then, they won't be happy. Given Horii's recent complaints about Squeenix making changes in the search of more sales it's not going to stop any time soon, but that doesn't mean I'm gonna stop bitching about it.

[itsmeimsilly]

figure this is as good a time as any to do an introduction post, so here we go. i'm august (he/they). i (i?) am plural, although i don’t really indicate it very much (it’s tagged, when we feel like it). we're religious, pretty quietly. i am not super into talking about that with other people, but it's true about us this blog contains multitudes. tags and sideblogs are under the cut.

tags:

#hazeposting - this is for when the haze has gotten me. these posts don’t really make sense, are often full of keyboard spam, and are also usually not me (see: plurality).

identifier tags (again, see: plurality) - this is pretty much #(name) tag [SSC]. SSC is an abbreviation and the square brackets stay, but the normal parentheses don’t.

#obligatory relapsing slenderman tag - it’s a lot of reblogging paper textures. used when i get stuck and start typing “my pages” over and over. it’s an inside joke, mostly.

#plurality - posts about plurality. fairly straightforward. these are basically all reblogs.

#octonauts - sometimes i accidentally start thinking about octonauts. this is generally accompanied by reblogs. i do make original posts on occasion, although they're usually just talking about whatever's happening in the episode i'm watching, or how often i think about the vegimals.

#the media - this one's a little complicated. there'll be parentheses after it. the media (1) followed by any other parentheses is dimension 20, the media (2) is worlds beyond number, and i do use more parentheses after those to denote episode numbers or other things. i do usually just tag it directly, but sometimes i don't Want to. #the character is a different story. this wonderful honorific applies to about 15 different characters at any given time, and you need not know which one that text post reminded me of.

#calendar - once a month tag. i have a wall calendar and post pictures of whatever it is. they are also tagged with the month and year (i.e. i’ll put #calendar, #2025, #may, #may 2025). right now it has owls on it, so i do also tag the species of owl.

#im musicing - again, fairly straightforward. i occasionally post recordings of myself singing or playing the clarinet. if i were still using chrome music lab song maker, that’d also go in here. another tag that sort of goes with it is #stuck in my head, which is me posting lyrics that i cannot stop thinking about.

musicals - what it sounds like. often, #dear evan hansen (this tag is featured because i used it three times because i saw the show). also sometimes come from away or newsies or like. other things. i am a theater kid.

#honey bustard pickled sea fuck meal - i am occasionally compelled to reblog honey bustard pickled sea fuck meal. nobody knows why. at least it's tagged.

project progress tags - i have two at the moment, #keychain progress and #toothless progress. it’s craft projects. the tags are mostly so i can find my updates later. keychain progress refers to a keychain i’m making that has the opening line of come from away. toothless progress is a crochet plushie of toothless (httyd) that i’m freehanding.

#august writes - i write things. this isn’t used on this blog super often, because i do have a writing sideblog. in the event that i do not want to post there, i do it here with this tag.

#hey look it's me - reblogs of posts from my sideblogs

#kitty cat - cats

#i go crazy - when i get excited andwrite for a while about thinfs i like

#when people say things - unused, at the moment. this is the name of the google doc i keep quotes in when school's going. might take this out of here if there aren't really any i want to post in september, but #when people say things: yearly summary is a thing i'm going to keep doing.

sideblogs:

@graphic-equilibrium is my writing sideblog. infrequently used, but sometimes i desperately need to write things.

@sierpinski-sunset is usually friendship bracelets, but i also do other things. i feel like i should post more things there instead of here

secret third sideblog is, well, a secret. i’ve (several months ago) reblogged one post from it to this blog. it’s fandom reblogs i don’t want to put here.