#protect the king [lie ren]

[phyx-m]

Beneath The Silk | True form Sukuna x Reader

🔗 Masterlist

Chapter 35: Goodbye, Little Red Flower

Content warning: Violence, gore, blood, dismemberment, Sukuna POV at the end.

🔗 Songs for this chapter:

The Breaking Of The Shell - Hunter As a Horse Doom - Alex Terrible

Chapter 34 | Chapter 36

The light tap on your bare shoulder almost pulls you from the haze of sleep.

Almost.

But you’re too comfortable to move. Too tired. Caught somewhere between peace and exhaustion with barely any thoughts. You drift, resting on whatever softness you lie on. It feels nice. And smells faintly of a warm, crackling fire and a deeper undertone, like marrow buried in the earth. Dense. Grounding.

Another tap, firmer this time, yet still gentle.

“Psst.”

A voice.

“It’s time to wake up.”

When your eyes drift open, you blink and are greeted by the sight of Sukuna’s messy sheets, a ridiculous mountain of pillows, and your form poured out across his futon, flat on your stomach.

Disoriented, you blink again, pushing yourself up slowly. Turning to sit, you face the room, aching in every muscle, body and energy spent. It feels like you could sleep for ages, especially here, wrapped in the decadence of this space.

A soft clearing of a throat breaks the quiet, and you glance left. Pale morning light filters through the garden doors, illuminating Ren standing beside the raised futon. She cradles a bowl of steaming liquid, her expression furrowed in thought.

“Morning,” she says, her voice polite, her head bowing slightly, but her eyes wander to the nearest wall, avoiding you.

You look down.

Oh.

Right.

You’re completely naked.

Muttering a few choice words, you grab the nearest thing—the massive blue quilt and swamp the fabric tightly around your body. It doesn’t take long for the memories of last night to resurface, and all you wish for is the heavy forgetfulness of sleep.

What do you remember?

Ceramics shattering. Sneaking into the King of Curses’ room in the middle of the night to stab him. All the truths that were finally hatched. Then, the forest battle. Your power. The fire arrow. The shouting. Screaming. Kissing. The sex—gods, the sex. Before, the quiet, whispering, “I should have stolen you sooner.” And finally, the monster letting you go, telling you to depart before sunrise, leaving you here, alone, covered in his…

You look down, cheeks burning with mortification as irritation prickles under your skin at the sticky sensation between your legs. There’s a lot. It’s everywhere.

He has two cocks, after all.

Taking a corner of the quilt, you scrub at your inner thighs, uncaring if you stain his sheets. If anything, you hope it leaves a mess—one small, final reminder that you were here. The act feels petty, but you reserve a corner in your mind that he deserves a whole lot more than this.

Let all his sleeps be ruined by crusty sheets.

Prick.

Peering back at Ren, your eyes flicker to the bowl cradled in her hands, which she seems to be directing toward you. The wafting steam smells of the earth, a grassy edge, maybe something sweet.

“What is that?”

Your prickly tone does little but draw her attention back to you. You level her with a stare. The sting of betrayal still crawls around in your mind, and looking at her directly does nothing to settle it.

“It’s a tea, my La—” Her words falter, lip tucking inward to stop herself.

You tug the quilt tighter, a protective shield.

So, the news has already spread throughout the shrine. This sham of a union is over. Eyebrows calmly arching, you wait for her to recover her voice.

“It’s a preventative,” she says, clearing her throat softly, “against anything... unwanted. Master Sukuna didn’t wish you to leave only to become pregnant.”

Her explanation barely registers before you take the bowl from her hands, careful to avoid brushing her skin—an intentional gesture after last night’s incident. No more shattered ceramics.

“How thoughtful of him,” you mumble, peering into the bowl’s murky contents and inhaling.

Despite the bitterness in your words, you know it’s true. Becoming pregnant would be foolish, and, as Ren said, unwanted. With no home, no clan, and no means of support, bringing a child into this life would be reckless.

“Is this what you and Sayuri would drink?”

You take a sip. Hints of over-brewed root and bark nips at your tongue.

“Not often.” Ren makes a humming sound in her chest. “If ever.” She moves across the room to pluck your ruined yukata that still sits as a rumpled pile on the floor. “Normally, he wouldn’t find completion inside us,” she adds, her voice calm, almost factual. “He would withdraw.”

“Oh.”

You avert your stare to the tea again. Taking a longer sip, then two more, you drain the rest in one long swallow. Wiping your mouth, you add, “I suppose I should feel honoured, right?” You tap the ceramic dish once with a finger before setting it down on the sheets.

Again, the bitterness in your words. They aren’t meant for Ren, but they come nonetheless.

Petty, petty.

She doesn’t respond, and standing at the end of the futon, she hesitates before dropping her chin. 

“I don’t mean to be forward, but—” She smooths your discarded garment between her fingers, as if trying to rub out the stains. “You need to leave,” she continues. The new tension winding through her tone has you sitting straighter. “There’s a force advancing toward Master Sukuna’s domain.”

Your brow creases.

“An attack?” Feet finding their way to the floor, you stand with the quilt wrapped around you. “Similar to previous ones?”

Ren shakes her head softly.

“No.” She hands you your yukata, which you take with careful fingers. “Master Sukuna seems more concerned about this. Apparently, it’s much more organized—and from the capital.”

Your pulse makes a dip. Skips a beat or two.

What you had wondered about last night is coming to pass. Heian-kyō is moving to retaliate against Ryomen Sukuna. The course of events likely tracing to what you asked of him nights ago—the destruction of the Kasai clan…

Everyone. Dead.

Those were her words.

You let the quilt fall, and threading your arms through the sleeves of your yukata, you slip inside.

What would they do if they ever laid hands on Sukuna? Unlikely—but does it matter to you anymore?

Do I even care?

Pinching the front panels of the garment closed, you glance around for the sash—your binding from last night—but it’s nowhere to be found.

Before you can ask any further questions, the door slides open.

Uraume steps into the room. Their pink gaze flickers toward you briefly, but it doesn’t remain. Crossing to a chest resting in the corner, their pale hands move to pile several folded garments into their arms.

You stare at them. At the pink strip staining the back of their head.

I trusted you.

Ren shifts beside you, clearing her throat for what feels like the hundredth time. 

“I’ll prepare some of your things for departur—”  

“I trusted you.” Your voice is aimed at Uraume’s back, but your words are meant for both of them.

The pale-haired subordinate’s hands pause. It falls silent. Then they continue while a pained expression passes over Ren’s face. You bite the inside of your cheek.

“Did you all just sit around at the end of the day and laugh at me?” you add, teeth clicking shut. “Recount all the stupid things I must have done?”

With a thump, Uraume presses the chest closed. In the dim light, dust motes swirl, dance, and finally settle. They turn to you, head bowing deeply, taking you by surprise.

“I have nothing to say for myself,” they admit, tone sincere. “And whatever you believe, know this—our actions toward you were genuine.”

“Genuine?” Your laugh comes out humourless. “After lying to me this whole time?"

“Yes.”

They pause, then lift their head.

“But.” Their expression cools, and your gaze hardens. “Your intent was to harm Master Sukuna. My loyalty will always remain with him—just as yours has always belonged elsewhere.”

Loyalty?

You huff, frustration rolling around inside your chest.

“Of course my loyalty was elsewhere. I did this to protect my sister.”

Under Uraume’s white bangs, their eyes exchange a wordless glance with Ren before flitting back to you.

Of course, they also didn’t know this—none of them did. Hidden truths and lies are all that bind anyone here.

“It wasn’t something I chose for myself,” you continue. And yet—what choice did either of them have against the word of the King of Curses? Was there a choice at all?

For a moment, Uraume hesitates, as if there’s more they want to say. But they simply bow their head again.

“Be safe.”

Clutching the stack of garments, they turn, slip gracefully into the corridor and disappear.

You stand there quietly before Ren steps briskly toward the door.

“Please,” she murmurs. “It’s time to go.”

Lifting your chin, you follow her from Sukuna’s chambers, sparing one last glance at the mural—the fading seasons, the red bloom sprouting from the snow—before turning away.

Descending the corridor back to your room feels strange, yet familiar, like retracing steps through a place that no longer belongs to you. When you enter, Ren gives you space. You move quickly, taking only what you need for the journey. Everything else, and anything gifted, remains untouched.

Before changing into a dark, plain kimono and hakama, you wipe your body down as best you can with a piece of cloth, ridding yourself of Sukuna’s touch.

With your leather gloves on, you pause in the doorway. The shattered ceramics from last night have been cleaned, leaving no trace of the realizations they pulled forth. Sliding the door open, you turn left, following the long hallway toward the front entrance. You pass the central hall, passing attendants along the way. They move through the corridors with their heads drawn low, not acknowledging you.

And you wonder—had they known about your gift all along? Perhaps that’s why they kept their distance, treating you like a walking, breathing wound.

Or a sickness.

Pushing the massive front doors open, you step outside. The morning drips with light rain, drizzle clinging to the air as fog blankets the ground in a soupy veil.

Everything is grey—dull, grey, muted, lifeless.

No colour. No warmth.

You exhale.

The clipped tap of footsteps behind you draws your gaze back over your shoulder. Ren stands at the mouth of the corridor, her face unreadable.

“Take care of yourself,” you say with a nod. She bows, head lowered, never lifting it.

Forcing a tight smile, you descend the wet stone steps of the shrine. The sodden ground gives beneath your feet as you make your way to the stables. Inside, your gaze sweeps over the stalls, tracing the familiar shapes of Sukuna’s horses, one after another, all accounted for.

So, he’s still here.

You pull open the door where Ayana waits, but a dull thud draws your attention downward.

There in the hay, your sheathed tantō lies, snug in its scabbard.

You stare at it for a heartbeat. Sukuna must have retrieved it, intending for you to take it. Your mouth twitches faintly, but instead of picking it up, you step over it, leaving the weapon where it lies.

A gift given, and one you’ll leave behind.

Ayana greets you with a gentle nudge, her warm breath coasting over your cheek. Huffing softly, the corner of your mouth attempts to rise.

“Ready to go, girl?” you murmur, circling her with a reassuring pat. Her dappled coat is smooth, brushed to a shine, clear that someone has taken care of her.

“We’ll ride toward the capital. Yuna will likely be waiting there for us,” you say, running a soothing hand along her neck before reaching for the bridle slung over the nearest beam. You begin fitting it over her head, your gloved hands steady as you secure the tack.

“And when this is all over, I’ll find you a place with real pastures. Somewhere with soft grass and open space, plenty of room to run wild.” You adjust the straps. “I’ll bring you something good too. Maybe sweet chestnuts. Or apples from some market we find along the way, the kind that smells like warm honey.”

She whinnies, and you smile at her.

“Freedom. Choices.” You give her a final pat. “Sounds nice, doesn’t it?”

The creak of the stable door opening makes your head tilt slightly. You pause. The heavy footfalls arrive like an approaching storm, the rustle of fabric a whisper, sending searing heat down your spine.

Sukuna’s footsteps might as well be stomping around inside your chest—all loud and disquieting.

But instead of hiding, you keep your focus on Ayana, and don’t look up. You continue preparing her, hands moving with careful precision.

Still, you can’t ignore the faint trace of his energy brushing against you, prodding—almost as if in greeting.

You force yourself to ignore it. To breathe.

You can block it out, can’t you? If nothing else, you’ve learned this much—you are far stronger than you ever realized.

Inhale. Exhale. Deep and low into your belly.

Slowly, the oppressive hum of him dulls. Quieted, but not gone. Never entirely gone.

A stall door groans open. One of his many horses lets out a low chuff, and then his voice—deep and quiet—fills the space, murmuring soft, soothing words to the beast. The familiar clink of buckles follows, the slow pull of leather straps.

He’s leaving now too.

You quicken your pace, finishing swiftly to avoid a final confrontation.

With the saddle fastened, you mount Ayana and steer her toward the main doors, keeping your focus locked ahead—nowhere else. A firm nudge to her side, and you burst from the stables, refusing to acknowledge the flash of red eyes snapping toward you as you race past.

No lasting glances. No words. No goodbye.

Nothing.

You’re already gone.

Erupting down the dirt-packed road with the wind tearing through your hair, the rain picks up. But you don’t mind. This is a first taste of freedom.

Pressed between the towering, muted trees at your sides and the endless curve of the grey sky above, Ayana surges forward, her hooves slicing through shallow puddles.

It all blurs. You don’t look back.

But it doesn’t take long before your mare’s gallop is drowned out by the thundering of hooves from behind.

Before you can turn, Sukuna suddenly appears beside you, his massive warhorse cutting across your path. Ayana rears back with a startled cry, and you grip the reins tightly to steady her, heart pounding as he pulls alongside.

Slowly, he comes into focus.

You haven’t met his gaze since last night, seen his face since that vulnerable moment when he was buried deep inside you, when he turned you away.

Now, eyes finding yours, they move across you, and something fractures behind the scarlet hue of his stare.

He looks so different from only hours ago. Before, he had been lost in pleasure—or whatever other tumultuous emotions had circled in his mind.

Now, he looks ready for war.

A dark charcoal kimono and hakama stretches over his broad frame, the long trishula strapped to his back a promise of violence. He appears as a shadow against the pale morning, cut from a deep wound, a stain.

And yet—

Tiny droplets of rain cling to him, softening the edges. Beads dot his lashes, dampen his pink hair to a deeper shade of blush. His eyes blink against the drizzle, and for a moment, the storm touches him too.

Hands loosening on Ayana’s reins, you part your lips to ask why he’s come—only for him to reach forward and crush something against your sternum.

Your chin tilts downward. Pressed against your chest is a thick stack of parchment, its edges curling from the damp. Reaching for them, your gloved fingers brush against the soaked paper, and you avoid his hand. Then your gaze drops lower, catching on the seal pressed into the front. A snake, coiled in red.

They are letters.

Your letters.

The ones he took.

Your eyes snap back to the King of Curses. He looms over you, his upper left arm still closing the space, palm flat against you. He looks out of place, oddly quiet, like he wants to speak but can’t quite force the words free.

Your grip on the reins shifts, leather creaking—the only sound above the steady patter of rain and the breath of the two horses.

Three heartbeats pass before he finally speaks.

“Be careful,” he mumbles lowly, pressing his hand more firmly as though unwilling to let go. His brow furrows. The way he looks at you—it’s there. If only he could unburden himself, let the words crawl free, you might listen.

You wait.

But his mouth and throat are fortified, his eyes fixed on you with an intensity that aches.

“Stay off the main road. Don’t ride east, it’s dangero—”

“Goodbye, my Lord.” 

Composed. Formal. Chin lifted.

Your interruption makes him hesitate, lip twitching—before, at last, he releases you. Slowly. Reluctantly. And it’s that reluctance on his face that makes him look like a man who’s taken another blade to the neck and doesn’t understand how.

What does he expect? 

Again, you’ve given him pieces of yourself. And again, he has taken.

The thought twists.

Ruiner.

Tucking the letters deep into the front panels of your kimono, you turn away. Without a backward glance, you guide Ayana forward, and the space separating you stretches wide—like the unseen divide that always existed between your two rooms at the shrine.

Ayana surges ahead. The world blurs into gold and brown. But you only get so far before something inside tugs—an invisible thread pulling too tight.

You risk a glance back.

There’s a final flash of red clinging to you before vanishing, swallowed by the fog and rain, and the four-armed demon dissolves into the grey.

* * * * *

You don’t ride for long before finding a place beyond the main trail to dismount. Under the shelter of a sprawling oak, your mare slows, and you pull the letters from the safety of your kimono.

Settling onto a cold slab of rock, its damp surface seeping through your layers, you decide it’s time to read through them—if only to chase away the feeling clawing at your chest.

An odd ache of sorts.

Glancing down at the parchment in your hands—there are many. Some remain folded and untouched. While others have been folded and refolded, their creases worn soft, as if read over again and again.

Why Sukuna felt the need to keep them hidden, you’re unsure.

Taking the first from the top, you ease it open and begin.

Dearest Sister, I hope this letter comes to you well. Court life has been a marvel—every day feels like stepping into the poetry of a dream. The noblewomen are endlessly graceful, and I’ve started lessons to refine my own gestures and speech. Did you know there’s even a proper way to arrange robes for an audience? It’s all so fascinating, and I feel I’m learning so much. Yuna

Your brow drops. You set it aside and retrieve another.

Dearest Sister, I’ve had the opportunity to meet several suitors from other clans, Zen’in, Kamo. I’m still waiting to meet a man from the Sugawara clan, said to have silver hair and striking blue eyes like the open sea. The others carry themselves differently, some with charm, others with an air of superiority. I wonder what they saw when they looked at me. Yuna

You drag your eyes away from the elegant script, rifling through the stack before selecting another.

Dearest Sister, The dango here is unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. Soft, sweet, with just the slightest hint of char that, regrettably, left me with a terrible stomach ache. I lack restraint, but how could I when they were served on—

Enough.

Your fingers curl into the parchment.

What kind of letters are these? Not a single word asks about your well-being or safety. Not a single inquiry into how you are being treated at the shrine. She speaks only of herself, every sentence orbiting around her.

Jaw clenching, you shuffle through the rest, searching for a kind word—anything that isn’t self-indulgent. But there’s nothing. It’s always about Yuna. It always has been.

She is the protected.

You, the protector.

She, the gem.

You, the trinket, shoved into a corner.

Her, lovely.

You, anything but.

You’ve convinced yourself time and time again that your needs were never worthy, that you were deemed undeserving. Yet despite her volatile upbringing—one so similar to your own—she could still show you some hint of compassion, some fragment of concern. Couldn’t she?

You keep searching, keep looking, and still, nothing.

A crack runs through your heart, a fractious crumbling. Ridiculous to feel this way. All this from a few damn letters. But you swallow and flip through the papers once more, unfolding and refolding.

There has to be something. 

Your fingers halt on a small, unmarked letter, the parchment lightly stained, its surface rough, absent of any emblem. Discreet. You unfold it slowly, revealing the familiar ink strokes of your father’s handwriting.

For a moment, you simply blink, looking down at the ramblings of a dead man—a man you killed—staring back at you.

To my youngest daughter. I will make this brief. If I am no longer here, I have one simple and final request to offer you. Do not trust the next head of the Kasai clan. Trust no one. Trust yourself. Trust your memories, but know that the mind is a terrible thing when touched. While you remain in the south, under the creature’s eyes, remember your mother. Remember her. Remember. And for all the harm I have caused you, I can only hope that one day you will find it in your heart to forgive me. Your Father. Kasai Takuma.

You stare at it, chest tight.

Forgive him?

Forgive him?

The thought alone feels impossible. A delusion he has no right to ask for. A fucking fool’s errand.

Your eyes sting.

Crumpling the letter, you toss it aside, letting it sink into the wet grass.

The thought burns at you, picking. You push to your feet, pace in agitation, eyes fixed on the wadded paper while the damp earth begins to swallow it whole.

“The mind is a terrible thing when touched…” you murmur, watching the letter start to cave in on itself. “What the hell does that even mean?”

The ink starts to bleed.

Your mouth twitches.

With an exhale, you step closer, grabbing it before moisture can fully soak through, then stare at it again, reading it over and over until his nonsense is memorized.

Because something about this feels wrong. Bone-deep, wrong.

The Kasai clan was destroyed days ago. There is no clan head. No power. No influence.

Once, I think I cared for you, just like your mother had, but I forgot what that felt like.

Your father’s words wander back, unbidden. The same words he spoke before you stabbed him in the throat.

“You’re not making any sense, you bastard.”

Sighing, you let your head fall back, neck tilting as your eyes drift skyward. The rain has passed, but the clouds linger heavy, dragging their swollen bellies close to the earth.

Your heartbeat slows.

Remember.

Remember…

Remember what?

Closing your eyes, you take a long, deep breath. Calm.

Remember.

Remember…

I remember a breeze. A whisper in the dark.

“How are you feeling?”

Your gaze snaps open as a choking scent invades your nose.

A smell.

That smell.

Smoke.

Leather gloves creaking, you curl your hands into fists as your eyes lift to the east, catching sight of thick, dark plumes rising, streaking the sky in an ugly stain of ash.

Something’s burning.

* * * * *

Elsewhere, in a village to the east, some time later…

Screaming. Yelling. Crying.

Flames lick at the grey sky. Huts on fire. Villagers running in every direction.

The King of Curses knows no mercy. Even surrounded by ten, twenty, fifty men, he fights. And when Sukuna fights, he fights viciously. Violently. He fights alone.

From across the burning, crumbling village, five assailants throw themselves toward him all at once. With Hiten out, the demon’s hold on his cursed energy is loose, and he responds in kind.

The first man arrives, swinging his katana with misplaced triumph, aiming for his weapon hand. The sharp edge of the blade descends with a high-pitched wail, but before he can take another step, his blood and guts are already smeared across the ground.

As easy as splitting an overripe peach.

Sukuna grins at the mess and laughs, then lifts his chin from the warm, wet, glistening heap. 

Three more follow.

He’s ready. Muscles in his chest swollen, the upper half of his kimono slung at his waist, four arms draped at his side, he steps forward to meet them.

For a heartbeat, as he moves, the energy of a lesser sorcerer rolls up against him in annoying fits and spurts. It’s distracting, a bit of a nuisance. Lip peeling back, he ignores it, his focus returning to the rushing of feet toward him, the advancing trio moving with well-trained precision.

But training means nothing in the presence of a many-faced monster.

Garments snapping in the heat of battle, Sukuna takes in the insignias woven into their attire—men from Heian-kyō and the Zen’in clan. The latter, he knows, is behind the constant attacks on his domain. For the past month, they’ve pushed his patience, having sat in league with the Kasai clan. Were.

There’s a bright red flash.

A spasm of energy hurtles toward him.

Dodging, he slides into a wide stance, sandals gripping the damp soil. His upper right arm lifts, two fingers poised. Scarlet eyes burn.

Flick!

A sharp hiss rips through the air.

The three men stagger to a stop, shudder, then split apart—torsos sliding cleanly from their hips, their bodies fall in halves to the ground with meaty thuds.

Veins, cartilage, bone, tissue, muscle.

Sometimes, Sukuna enjoys dragging out a fight—testing his opponent’s limits, squeezing out every last drop of potential.

Not today.

Today, he fights to kill. Today, he wants to see eyes wrench wide, watch insides spill pink, feel flesh tear under his hands. The slick heat of blood—he needs it. Needs to drown out the colour of snowmelt, the vision slipping long out of reach.

Pitiful.

He lets himself feel fucking pathetic for one second before turning to the last man in his vicinity.

There are still more to kill.

Lots more.

“Come on!” His canines flash.

He feels insane. Drunk. Blood drunk. Bloodlust.

He wants more. So much more.

The final man raises his hands, fingers aligning into some kind of hand sign.

“Thrilling.” Sukuna’s demonic grin pulls wider.

With a smooth motion, his lower left arm draws back, halberd poised.

He releases it.

The incantation barely leaves the sorcerer’s throat before the blades sink snugly into his windpipe. The man’s cries mutate into animalistic sounds as he crumples to his knees, then collapses onto his back, eyes fixed on the ashen sky.

“How boring,” the King of Curses mutters, stepping closer to the body.

Planting his foot on the lifeless chest, he leans into it, dislodging Hiten from the ruined neck with a slick, hideous squelch.

“Such a waste to use this here,” he scowls, turning the bloodied weapon in his hand with a reverent eye. “It deserves far worthier opponents…” Lowering the haft to the dirt, he lets the blade rest upright. “Perhaps another time.”

He lifts his attention from the spear, falling on the remains of the sprawling village, surveying where the chaos takes shape.

The pests of the Zen’in clan and men from the capital swarm the dirt paths between ruined huts, fire stinging the air as they rip the place apart. He catches sight of others lingering at the edges, biding their time, waiting, but he’s not sure for what.

Four eyes sweeping to the fields beyond, he sees they’re smothered in ash, the homes already burned to the ground before his arrival. This village—once the heart of this domain northeast of the shrine—is as good as lost. Survivors, mostly women and children, pick their way through the wreckage or scatter into the surrounding wilds. Few converge in the distance, forming a group as they attempt to flee toward the tree line—only to be cut down or dragged away.

A month ago, the situation wasn’t this dire. Then again, a month ago, everything was very different. But this assault feels… calculated.

As he moves toward another cluster of assailants, that same flicker of lesser energy brushes against him, making his brow crease in irritation. Again, he ignores it, too busy weighing his next opponent.

Out of nowhere, two horses rush past, their riders racing in the direction he came from. 

South. 

A warning rings out inside his mind, and he doesn’t hesitate to move.

Abandoning the village, Sukuna tracks them, his massive form cutting through the terrain. With a flick of his wrist, the first rider is ripped from the saddle, slamming against the earth.

The second man continues, veering deeper into the brush. 

He doesn’t make it far. 

With a single swipe, Sukuna cleaves through flesh and bone, severing the rider’s leg mid-gallop. The limb hits the ground first. The man follows, crashing into the undergrowth. His horse bolts, vanishing into the trees, leaving its master mutilated in the dirt, groaning in agony.

Through the thicket, the King of Curses moves slowly. Blood pools beneath the mangled figure, staining the rain-softened earth dark. Sukuna reaches him and kneels, fingers curling into the man's battle attire—a layered mix of padded silk and hemp, suited for a warrior of Heian-kyō’s polished courts yet built for combat. Hiten shifts at his side as Sukuna hauls the man upright, their faces close enough that he can taste the sour tang of his breath, can see the fear stretching lines in his features.

“Why are you here?” Sukuna’s voice is a bored, guttural drone.

What he said must have been funny, because his trembling prey smiles at him, baring a row of gummy teeth.

Oh.

Sukuna chuckles.

How sweet.

Canting his head like an animal, the monster’s lower right hand finds its way to the dismembered leg. His fingers crawl deep into the raw, bleeding cavity until the man’s mouth opens in a scream.

“I’ll ask again,” he drawls, pinching an artery between firm fingers. “Why are you here?”

“To collect!” the warrior croaks in pain, blood bubbling onto his chin, some managing to spill onto the mossy ground.

Sukuna’s grip loosens—slightly.

“To collect what?”

Sweat slithers down the man’s brow to settle in the hollow of his cheek. 

“You,” he wheezes, then the grin from before returns, overtaking his shuddering expression. “And to take that whore of a wife off your hands.”

Sukuna’s face turns solid. Emotionless. He says nothing. Even when he imagines tearing the man’s jaw free from its roots, leaving him to choke on his own bile and blood.

“You are sentenced to death for the crimes against the Kasai clan,” he continues, glee painting his words even as his skin pales like a corpse. “Your wife stands accused of conspiracy and treason for instigating a coup.”

Sukuna’s jaw sets. He removes his fingers from inside the bloody stump.

“But, she’s wanted alive.” The man pauses. “There are far greater plans for her.”

The monster’s expression darkens.

“And who said she had anything to do with it?” His teeth are bared despite himself.

Patience.

“A witness,” the warrior sneers. “Someone of higher influence than both of you.”

“Fuck your so-called witness. It means nothing to me,” Sukuna hisses, yanking the man forward until their noses nearly touch. “The Kasai clan is gone. I took them apart.” 

“No.” The man wheezes out a laugh, then licks his bloodied bottom lip. “Not all of them.”

The King of Curses already knows this. And he doesn’t care. He doesn’t care about the accusations, the sentence placed upon him. Let them call him a criminal, a demon, a cannibal, disgraced, wretched—he’s heard it all before. But you? That’s… a different creature entirely.

His fingers flex around the warrior’s clothing, crumpling it further in his grip.

“Who?”

The man’s grin spreads grotesquely wide, every tooth on display.

“The new head of the Kasai clan.” He starts to laugh, his head lolling back in wild abandon.

Only then does Sukuna notice the eyes, the pupils—blown wide, unnaturally so.

“And she’s magnificent.” She. “You’ll see. You’ll see when—”

With a harsh twist, the man’s face is wrenched sideways. His laughter cuts off. Bones splinter. Flesh stretches. Pulls. Tears. 

Sukuna doesn’t stop.

He rips the jaw clean from the warrior’s skull. Blood sprays across him in a fine mist. Holding the chunky mass of bone and tissue in his hand, he turns it slowly between his fingers as though admiring a beautiful flower. Below him, his victim collapses to the ground, his hands flying up to claw at the gaping red hole where his mouth once was. But there’s nothing, and his screams are reduced to wet, gurgling sounds as his body twitches in pain.

“Magnificent, was it?” Rising to his full height, Sukuna drops the shattered jaw. “Let’s see how magnificent Yuna Kasai is when I’m done with her.”

Without sparing another look, he turns, leaving the man to suffer, and saunters back toward the village.

As he walks, he collects everything, thinks about the manipulative little bitch who has finally revealed her hand—turning against you, usurping what remains of the Kasai clan, setting everything into motion.

Like a slow-working poison. And by the time you realize what she’s done, it will be too late.

Once your eyes have opened, it will destroy you.

And after all this, he let you go—knowing full well you were no longer safe.

Safe.

He scrubs a hand across his face, then runs it through his hair, fingers dragging through clotted blood and sweat. With another hand, he grips Hiten, shifting its weight as he slides the weapon’s haft into his obi, the blade rising over his shoulder, still within reach.

Walking out of the tree line, the village comes into view, and that same pressure as before pushes against his senses—a slow, drugging pulse in his veins. Drugging in the way that it’s familiar... 

Sukuna slows, then stops, cocks his head to the side, all his senses straining.

That lesser energy he’s been feeling. Not lesser, just untamed energy. It reaches across him like a stranger but still familiar—known, but not entirely. The face of someone he once knew but never fully understood, even if he wished he had.

But that’s impossible.

Because it’s yours.

Your cursed energy. Here.

You are here.

Why the hell are you here? You can’t be. You were far from this place. He had told you not to ride east. So why does it feel like he’s breathing you in again? Hadn’t he finally rid himself of your presence?

And yet.

Spurts of it tell him something else.

You are here. And you are… fighting.  

His four eyes roll across the surroundings, searching. There’s a wisp of it. He feels it. Then, he moves.

Carving his way through any assailant even as they lunge at him, he slips past every strike, every arc of steel, and every flicker of energy that flares to life.  

Delving back deeper into the village, fire cracks. The wind shifts. Smoke spills down his throat, and the warm scent of death thickens, layered with fouler scents.  

Decay.  

His gaze narrows.  

He moves faster.

The ground slopes under his feet. A natural dip in the land, where runoff pools from the rain. Down past charred remains of a market stall, he steps over a corpse. 

More signs.

Footprints trailing through the dirt, the grass at their edges reduced to black husks. Ash curling over withered reeds. It only goes so far before the rot stops.

Your work.  

He lifts his head.

The village stretches forward, its wreckage bisected by a narrow road snaking through the center. 

More corpses litter the ground. Not just dead—ruined.

Darkness eats at the edges of their skin, flesh slack and mottled, collapsed inward. Their chests yawn open, ribs gaping, organs spilled like spoiled fruit.

So this is the full extent of your power—all from a single touch.

He pauses, taking it in—the tattered scraps of the dead’s clothing, the insignias barely visible through falling soot and ash.

Heian-kyō and Zen’in.

Sukuna steps over the bodies. Another corpse shudders in its final moments, a rattling hiss as bones slump into a heap of innards.

Fresh.

You were here moments ago.  

He breathes it in, takes it in, the reeking taste of sick life on his tongue.  

You’re messy. Inefficient. Brutal. Room for error.

His lip curls.

Reckless woman.

“Where the fuck are you?” he growls, stepping over another pile of split torsos and soured meat. But there it is—your pulse, steady through this slaughter.

Skirting a half-collapsed hut, he follows its pull.

Then, a desperate cry cracks the air.

He stops.

Goes still.

Listens.

His ears catch the sting of metal, the shuffle of hurried feet, and a crowd of voices. 

But it’s you. 

He knows this.

Through the shambles, down shallow alleys, past collapsed walls where fire has eaten at wood and thatch—he moves.

The pulse of your cursed energy bleeds stronger.

The noise ahead swells.

Laughter.

Jeering voices. Too loud.

He rounds the last ruin and steps into an open stretch of the village square.

In the distance, a cluster of men stands in a tight mass all shouting and revelling. Teeth flashing, voices raised as though they’ve just brought down something great.

As though they’ve won.

He moves closer.

The ravenous crowd parts like a vein split open, but there’s no beast lying at their feet.

There’s only you.

The Zen’in clan and men from the capital have you.

Their hands claw at you—pulling, dragging, yanking—before shoving you face-first into the slick mud. Your arms are wrenched behind your back, gloves missing, exposing discoloured fingers and hands.

Beside you, one man yanks Ayana’s reins, his knuckles tight around the leather. The mare screams, bucking wildly, panic twitching through every strained muscle. Kicking up dirt, she fights to break free.

But it isn’t enough.

She is losing.

And so are you.

Thrashing, you fight like a wild creature ripped straight from the forest, meant to be bound and butchered.

And you don’t stop. Not even when a man straddles your back, his knees digging into you as he shoves a dirtied strip of cloth between your teeth, wrapping it tight around your head, forcing your cries to collapse into muffled rage. Then he adjusts his grip and pulls. Your spine wrenches into a painful bow, body buckling under heavy weight.

You scream.

And—

Livid. Fucking. Fury.

Clarity comes to a sharpened point.

Jaw clenched, it's incredible how the violence hits Sukuna all at once—so forceful he's certain his teeth crack down to the marrow.

But that isn’t the worst of it.

Another man steps around your struggling form, gripping a branding iron. Its tip glows—a hot, furious thing. Your right arm is wrenched back, palm up, pinned to the ground.

That’s when he understands this condemnation.

裏切り

Traitor. Betrayer.

They’re going to brand you. 

You must feel the heat licking at your skin because he sees your eyes go wild with terror. Sees the moment the screams rip harder from your throat, gag soaking with it.

The sight before him—so much like his own beginning, when fire once kissed his face.

But this.

The sound of you struggling, fighting, handled like prey—after everything—this is all it takes.

He understands it instantly, viscerally, and an ugliness crawls within him, a weapon unsheathed. That same feeling, the one that gripped him last night slides over his being, the one he felt before he followed you into the forest.

That repetition of tiny words all to form a much grander thing.

His.

Always.

But he doesn’t name it. Doesn’t think it. Doesn’t breathe it back into existence.

You were never truly his to begin with.

Sukuna takes a step.

Something must alert you to him because your gaze cuts through the crowd and finds his. And you're furious. Eyes screaming into him, eyes screaming at him. And with that look, the first threads of his restraint toward you fall apart.

The King of Curses takes another patient step.

He doesn’t need to run.

Time bends for him.

And everyone here will be dead in a heartbeat.

If only he knew about the presence closing in behind him.

🔗Chapter 36

[loveaurapearl]

Rewatching 3rd life again from both Grian's and Scar's perspectives because man is it a trip. Not only on how different it is from what it is now but also what it was originally meant to be. Remember, 3rd Life wasn't meant to be a death game. Sure, it was always meant to be a mini-series with no script, but the wars, the betrayals, the curses, those weren't meant to be what it would be. There were meant to be two sides, the Greens versus the Reds with the Greens trying to last as long as they could before everyone became red. The series was meant to be cooperative instead of a death game.

I want to note that everything that Third Life is, what the Life series has become is because of Scar. Obviously, the other lifers had a hand in turning the Life series into the series it is today, but Scar was the one who got the ball rolling. Scar was the one who initiated his crew of mischiefs to raid the village. Scar planted the idea of raiding the village and taking everything for yourself, that you have to win the game. Scar made Grian agreed to a monopoly on Sand which got Grian's brian think of other possible monopolies they could have. Scar planted the idea in Etho's head that you can't trust people by burning the tree of Dark Oak which caused the Village people to be more hostile to Ren. Scar invites idea that they have to compete with each other for resources. Scar's scams caused people to be distrusting towards others since they lost their stuff to Scar. Scar's obsession with Pizza caused Cleo to steal it and leading her to lie in order to keep a secret. And of course, Scar threatened Ren for the Enchanter leading him to need to toughen up to become the Red King. Scar planted the idea in everyone's head that this is a death game and in Scar's mind from the start, he kind of knew it was a death game. He confessed to Etho that he knows it is, it's why he has such trouble trusting people.

In Scar's first life, he was paranoid. He was basically acting like a Yellow life while on his Green life because he is the king of Death. He wasn't sure who to trust and scared of death. He began to relax a bit once he and his group raid the village and he begins to think normally. He devises a plan with Grian since he doesn't really trust his team, after all, they left him all alone even though they know he dies a lot and try to be 'reasonable' with Etho and Tago. Then he dies to Grian's prank and everything changes. He finally has Grian on his side but he finds out everyone just left him to die and he feels betrayed. His anger grows and closes his heart to everyone but the guy who offered his first life to Scar. Scar threatened people while on yellow by having Grian put lava on them. Scar threatened everyone with death which intrigued Grian. Grian made this series to be cooperative and fun, but he also wants to be red and to be a killer, he wants that dangerous side of his brian to be released, but he also knows he shouldn't be like this, after all, he's only on Green. But the more and more he interacts with Scar, the more his malicious and villainous side is released and the two begin thinking of ways to get revenge on everyone who hurt them. Then Scar dies again due to the revine and everything changes again.

Scar is on red but Grian is still stuck with the man due to his debt. This was not how the dynamic of the Reds and Greens was meant to play out, but Grian can't stop it now, Scar changes his skin which invites other people change their skin once they become red. Scar wants cookies and death and it's up the Grian, the Green name, to come up with ways to kill people for Scar and to protect Scar. Scar, meanwhile, doesn't want to lose Grian and so does everything in his power to keep Grian around and for Grian to love him. They make alliances and packs. It convinces the Crastle to make Impulse a mole on both sides, thus making him the first traitor, and at the end of the series, Scar convinces Bdubs to kill Impulse over a watch for the first biggest betrayals. Then there was Scar's betrayal with Grian over the paper then Scar's betrayal to Bdubs and of course, Scar giving his life to Grian because all he ever wanted was Grian. Then it was the final fight. Scar is the first Victor of Third Life with Grian, but only history thinks Grian won, after all, that's what the murals and watchers say. But in the Cactus ring, there were two victors, Scar and Grian who both died by the Ring. Also, it means that yes, we already have a double victor. It's Scar. Scar won Third Life and Secret Life. But so much has happened that Grian and everyone else forgot that fact. Grian in Wild Life thinks that he could be the first ever double victor of the games, not remembering that Scar won Third life with him. So yeah, let be heard, that Scar is the first ever double victor since Scott didn't win Double life. Scott came in Second in Double life, but Scar came in first with Grian in Third Life. Spread the Word! Scar is a double victor and also stuck in Secret Life.

[smootnytechnik]

The Hand that slipped (upon your bloodied head) - chapter 4 (fragment)

It finally happened! The Hand slipped! So uhhhh big trigger warning for violence and gore for this one :3 (not included in this fragment dw)

"My liege..." He bowed deeply, but Ren stopped him with a simple hand gesture.

"Martyn, me hand... May we proceed with our test...?"

"Yes... Yes, I guess we can..." Martyn nervously chuckled. "Although, uh, if I may, my liege..."

"You may."

"I don't even know what this 'test' is meant to achieve... I-I don't even know what this test is , let alone-"

"Me hand..." Ren repeated, this time in a slightly warmer tone. "Patience. I will explain everything to you. You trust me, right?"

"I..." Martyn didn't answer. Did he? That was the one question he kept asking himself for the past few days, but couldn't find an answer. Of course, he knew what kind of answer Ren expected from him - an undeniable 'yes'. But would he lie if he said that? And would his king realize that was a lie if it really was? Maybe he was giving Ren too much credit; maybe it wasn't all that serious? Maybe he was still being playful, but in a... Different way?

The king silently nodded. He should've expected that answer. Maybe he was rushing it a bit... No, a thought rang in the back of his mind. It'll be fine. Even if it won't go as you want, you'll figure it out. You have to. He took his spot on top of Black Heart Altar. His big, warm hands fell atop Martyn's cold, trembling hands, still cradling Red Winter like the most precious treasure he couldn't quite understand the true value of. So this was it.

"Me hand... My loyal, brave knight..." The king said with a warm smile. "This kingdom we've built here, Dogwarts... It's the most beautiful kingdom this server has ever seen."

"Not like we have much of a competition." Martyn pointed out in a quiet murmur, which made Ren chuckle.

"That, too... However. Soon, this beautiful kingdom will be endangered. We need to protect it from anyone who will want to come and take it away from us. Do you understand, me hand?"

"I do... But... What does that mean, exactly...?"

Martyn looked down at the weapon. There was one weapon he had in his head, and he really didn't want it to come to fruition. He shut his eyes tight, awaiting the command.

"You see, me hand... Ones like Scar, that are already on their red life, are free to wreak havoc upon the server. And if Dogwarts possessed this kind of power... We'd be unstoppable, you and I."

"Do you want me to... Kill myself for you...?" Martyn asked in a trembling tone, a cloud of vapor escaping his mouth. Ren tightened his grasp on his small, yet rigid hands.

"No... I want you, me hand, to slice your king's head off his neck, turning him into a red. This will be the first part of our ultimate test of trust."

Martyn couldn't help but gasp upon the revelation. Ren wanted his closest knight, his right hand man to... Kill him? What kind of sick, twisted test was it? His hands started shaking again - this time, not from the cold. His breathing hitched, as if stopping to breathe would stop him from committing the act.

"I... I don't know if I can do this, milord..." He whispered, tears welling up in his eyes.

"Of course you can, me hand... You've done this before. I trust you."

[ashenquill]

IT'S SCAR TIME BABAEYYYY HERE COME THE (head)CANONS

He's my favorite which means he suffers the most so this post is a little bit of a downer, not gonna lie. But there's silly stuff in there too I promise!!11!

Scar's full name is Scar Conn Goodtimes. You may be asking yourself: what kind of name is that? How is his middle name con? What kind of parent would do that to their child? WELL, the answer is BECAUSE I SAID SO. Idk I just thought it would be goofy if convex had the middle names "con" and "vex". Soooo yeah lol

As far as origins and backstory are concerned, Scar is half vex and half elf. His mother was a vex hybrid, and had two kids, Cub and Scar (I'll post about Cub tomorrow probably). They're technically half-brothers, but they don't really care enough to talk about the logistics of it. As far as they (and everyone else, atp) are concerned, they're just brothers. Plain and simple.

Scar and Cub grew up without their parents, and were primarily raised by their maternal grandmother, the only human in their family. She taught them anything she knew about their mother, their fathers, and their magic. Thus, Scar and Cub practiced with their vex magic until they were finally able to properly wield it. (Vex magic has many capabilities, especially among family members, but the primary way it manifests is by having a particular trait that it can amplify. Scar, for example, can amplify someone or something's strength.) Scar had a tougher time with it, and it often backfired on him. That, combined with him being incredibly accident-prone, is how he ended up suiting his name so well.

In his late teens, Scar sustained an injury that caused major nerve damage and hindered his ability to walk, but with his magic he was still able to walk with the help of mobility aids (such as canes and crutches, and after a few years, a wheelchair). He refused to believe that it was irreversible, and when Cub made him a set of magic-powered walking braces, he thought his problems were solved. But that is not how chronic pain/illness works, even in a world with magic. So, he still uses a variation of aids, but the braces have to be used sparingly, as they draw from his magic and tire him out more quickly. That's why he mostly uses them when he's HOTGUY YEAH THAT'S RIGHT THIS IS A SUPERHERO AU.

Hotguy was hired by King Ren to head the Royal Guard and protect the city (and the king) from "nefarious evildoers". Of course, he mostly uses it as an excuse to play superhero, to which Cub is unwittingly dragged into. He's Scar's "guy in the chair", and even though he mostly just complains about Scar taking unnecessary risks, they both know he loves it.

More fun facts:

Smells earthy, like grass & pine trees

Hybrid: elf & vex (mixed) ((I’m not projecting you are))

Street smart - Special knowledge of city layout, people-pleasing, manipulation tactics

Likes: coffee (only drinks black coffee on bad days, usually gets something sweet and fun, he's totally a pumpkin spice latte girly), bird-watching, movies, theme parks, cooking/baking

Dislikes: golf (he goes with Cub anyway), reading

Passions: justice/fairness, nature (landscaping, birds), Scarland 

Habits/other details: skin-picks, eats water (with a spoon)

Active in his environment - takes advantage of being overlooked, sort of dejected/resigned to ableism against himself (but never others), not usually aggressive but might try to control situations in other ways, good at finding out information but doesn’t always think to do so

Special, plot-relevant skills: archery, charisma 500, magic = strength

Terrible sleep schedule, somehow a morning person

I love him dearly so I sometimes make bad things happen to him this is just the basic law of author projection <3

[factorialsotherfandoms]

Wasn't sure what bit of False to write or how to introduce her. I was working on a bit based on the exams she sets, but... in the end, this worked out more fun! Happy False day, everyone!

(All of the Spellcaster University factions are kind of silly and incompetent. Of course the Inquisition gets in their allies' ways more than their enemies - they are the light deck associated faction. You get negative relationship hits for advertising yourself as teaching light magic [their thing, they want the solo purview booo] AND for you teaching shadow magic. Or teaching magic at all, really. Mostly they just demand money or get annoyed with you, and negative relationship with any faction provides negative modifiers.)

Perhaps the highest of all crimes is to interrupt teatime.

False, as her name might imply, knows this to be a lie, and parrots it all the same. It is, however, definitely high on the list of crimes, especially when the tea-time being interrupted is her one chance a week to just hang out with Ren.

The knock on the door to the teacher's lounge has them both looking at the other over their teacups.

The rest of the staff are teaching or in meetings - it's why they pick this time for their tea meets - which means...

A second knock - harder, and more insistent.

"I'll go!" Ren puts down his cup, tail swaying as he makes his way to the door.

"Good evening, gentlemen," False hears him say, still drinking her own tea and fighting off thoughts of what essay she can possibly set in the morning. "How can I help you?"

"Out of the way, idiot," comes a vaguely familiar, obnoxious voice; False puts down her teacup, pops on her hat, and double checks for her knives. "We're looking for a Miss Symmetry. If you obstruct Agents of the Inquisition-"

"Who have been told time and again that they have no power in this place," Ren interrupts. "The Inquisition has no right to interfere in University business. As the liaison to the Crown, I should know this."

That gives them pause - few people expect a werewolf to be the connection between university and king, but more the fool them.

"She stands accused of teaching dark and forbidden arts."

Nothing that False teaches has not been used by the Inquisition themself; she would know. Agents of the Light they might consider themselves, but that didn't stop them from recruiting a seventeen year old girl looking for an apprenticeship, and using her to kill. Taught her shadow magic, too, creating a deadly weapon turned against not the enemies of the Light, but the enemies of the Inquisition.

Because of course they're so up themselves as to consider themselves interchangeable.

"What, like architecture?" Ren asks.

False has to smile at that; sure architecture is a part of it - you have to read the building plans, know which sorts of decor can hold your weight, be able to identify hidden passages - but anyone who calls her an architecture tutor is having a bad day.

But, they're probably about to go for their swords; False stands with an eye to protecting her knees - one of her most precious tools - and heads towards the door.

It's been a good two years since her former employers tried to have her arrested - she'd almost thought they'd finally given up.

"Architecture, parkour, anatomy..." False approaches, careful of her stance. "I also sometimes cover archery lessons, when neither Gem nor Scar are up to it. And I've been known to cover potions. Is there a problem, gentlemen?"

She scans over the group. The leader might be just old enough to remember her, probably why his face is familiar, but the rest are clearly new recruits. They never send people who she actually worked alongside - probably because they haven't been sent at all. Oh, well, the assassins who came after her five years back - silence the person who knows your crimes, a familiar tactic she can make a game of - were almost certainly official, but this really looks like a bunch of neophytes heard 'assassination teacher' and decided to storm in.

Maybe they did give up, then, if this motley crew is

"Shadow mage!" the leader accuses. "Servant of Evil!"

"Huh," Ren looks over to her. "That's a new one."

"Not so much, but it's been a few years," False shrugs; she knows she could take them all, with no more consequences than giving Xisuma a headache. She LIKES Xisuma, though; everyone she has killed since starting as a teacher has been of her own initiative, and at least half of them to protect him. "I don't think they know creativity."

One of the younger inquisitors is eyeing her up, clearly confused.

"Sir?" the boy asks. "Are you sure this is her?"

"Quiet," the leader snaps. "Of course I am? Do you do not recognise the Queen of Hearts?"

"Head, and Body Parts, yes," False agrees, because denying her former identity is just going to cause more problems down the line. "Now we've established that I'm too busy to come with you, how can I help you?"

"We're arresting you for the crime of practicing unlicensed shadow magic!"

"I am licensed," she replies, right as Ren says "you do not have authority to arrest people, dude."

Still, she doesn't really want to stain the carpet; the Inquisition think of themselves as the University's allies, and they do need all of those that they can get.

"Would you like some books instead?" she offers, glancing at the shelf. There's at least three spare copies of the first year herbalism textbook. She knows Ren never actually uses it, and so reaches over and yanks it off the shelf. "Here, will this do?"

The leader snatches the book. He doesn't even look at it before grumbling something, and shooing his underlings out of the door.

"I thought we were arresting a shadow mage?!" one underling cries. "That's not what this is!"

"It's forbidden knowledge which must be destroyed," the leader replies. "Get going."

False can hear them bicker as they head down the stairs.

Once they are fully out of earshot, Ren turns to her and pouts. "I needed that."

"Ren, I've never seen you teach from a book in your life," she replies. "And, there's another two copies on the shelf if you find yourself desperate."

"Still, not cool dude!" he gestures dramatically. "Using my teaching resources to get your bitter exes off your back! Use your own next time!"

"I don't keep mine in here," she points out. "Do you want Doc getting his hands on those? What about Cub? /Grian/?"

"We should get fake-out books," Ren suggests. "Just covers. Take the pages out, replace them with blank ones. We can say it's written in magic ink or something. Maybe even write messages in magic ink!"

"What, like 'hey! leave us alone, or False might remember where I put my knives'?"

"I was thinking more 'dear sirs and madams, please refrain from harassing innocent members of teaching staff just trying to do their parts in saving our wonderful world'," Ren shrugs. "But that works."

There's not that much longer left of their now-interrupted break; False closes the door, reminds herself to let security know about the intrusion, and heads back over to the fireplace, "you were talking about your theory that, with the right other magics, resin might be able to be brought under herbalism's purview...?"

Ren ignores the armchair entirely, grabbing his tea and a whiteboard marker.

"Right! Did we prove resin is a tree product yet?"

[skylarstark4826]

I absolutely loved this beautiful Star Wars Fanart of the LGBT polyamorous ship of Reylux of the characters of King Skywalker (King Palparine), Armitage Hux and Ben Solo (Kylo Ren) together and especially because even though I am a big fan of the ships of Reylo, Kylux and Reyux together I also love the Reylux ship and above all because I really love the way Rey and Ben are sleeping together in the protective and loving arms of Hux while the 3 spend their first night together as a couple after The Final Battle against The Emperor Palpatine but also and above all because I personally would have really liked that in the movie Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker we could have seen Hux make the decision about leaving and that then he could have escaped along with his beloved Rey and all his other friends but above all because I really would have liked to see him and also Ben fighting side by side against The Knights of Ren before they help Rey defeat his grandfather. Emperor Palpatine and that then the 3 would have returned together and above all alive with The Resistance but also and above all because I would have really loved that Hux and Ben had been saved and survived but also that they had left with Rey with The Resistance but I would also have liked the idea that Hux would have been a Force Sensitive just like his beloved Rey and Ben and also because every time I think of a polyamorous relationship I can only think of Reylux's ship... And I won't lie to you, I also would have liked the 3 to have become a Canon in the Star Wars movie: The Rise Of Skywalker and say honestly that every time I think of a polyamorous relationship in the Star Wars movies I can only think of the Reylux ship... honestly

By the way, these beautiful Fanarts of them are not mine and the credits are not for me, but I will let you know that right here I am going to leave you the link of the real creator on Tumblr

[hao-and-yoh]

Shaman King “Fractured Duality” - “Alt” Universe

Continued from here.

Episode Eleven (7)

Keeping his gaze firmly on the ground, the powerful fire wielding shaman flicked his long bangs from his face as he walked alone down the First Creek Park rocky footpath. He glanced up and immediately spotted a charming children’s playground made from reclaimed wood from the neighbouring woodland. He quickly searched the surrounding open area for others. Then, he breathed a deep sigh of relief. Other than the creek in the distance - he found nothing reflecting the beating down sun above.

He was finally safe.

He climbed up upon the smooth skinned climbing tree trunk, swinging his legs over and perching himself along one of its stumped branches. He felt somewhat safer off the ground - he had a better view of the area - making it far easier to spot any lurking potential threat.

His mind fell back on the new member of their group. A pained expression flickered across his face. He recalled the moment he first laid eyes on the green haired boy, how desperate and tormented he was in the real world. He was acutely aware of the actions of his true self. The one he was moulded from. Born from. Is that why he felt such immense guilt for something he had not been personally responsible for? He had not harmed a single soul in this world, but - this fake reality was exactly that… false. Created by the same one who had inflicted such unimaginable pain on such an innocent child.

Hao recognised the poetic irony of it all. For the Guilty to be tormented by the truth, for the Victim to be so blissfully ignorant, only for the crime to have never been committed in the first place.

So why did it still feel like it was all his fault?

The distrusting face of the warrior shaman flashed in his mind. Ren was right about everything. He had every reason to be suspicious of him. All he had done since they had met was lie.

Lie, lie, lie.

How could he expect anyone to trust him, to accept him, if all he did was be so untruthful to all those he cared about?

And then there was Yoh.

Yoh was being dragged into this never ending cycle of deceit. Hao could see it was starting to have an impact on him. He was supposed to protect his little brother from harm, not cause it.

Why did this world have to exist?

Why did any of it exist?

Why did he exist?

What was the point of it all?

If it was just going to feel like…

…Hell.

“Hao…”

Alarmed, Hao lifted his head and looked out into the surrounding open landscape.

That voice.

It was as clear as a bell.

But there was not a soul in sight...

His eyes slowly drifted up to the clouds above him. As he gazed up at the sky, the wind began to gently caress his face - his long soft hair flowed all around him - delightfully tickling his skin.

A sense of peace washed over his body… penetrating his mind and soul.

That familiar, all encompassing, addicting, pleasurable comfort…

Hao was not afraid.

He closed his eyes and focused on the silence all around him. He reached deep into his shamanic sense, deeper than he had tried to reach for a very long time. He smiled softly. A familiar sensation began to emerge. He mentally reached out for it…

“I know what you’ve been doing, you know.” came another unexpected and gentle voice.

Startled, Hao snapped his eyes open and he almost fell backwards off his perch. Snapping himself back into the present moment he looked down and instantly met the glistening crimson eyes of the Iron Maiden Jeanne gazing up at him - but was alarmed to see her wardrobe was glistening and gleaming at him in the sunlight.

Quickly looking away from her intense gaze and sparkling outfit, Hao attempted to compose himself.

“Pardon?” he muttered, clearing his throat.

“I thought it was a little strange at first,” began Jeanne as she hauled herself up onto the climbing tree apparatus behind him, “That the ex-Patch member of the group was keeping it very quiet that he knows exactly where the Patch Village is.”

Hao swallowed nervously as Jeanne began to pick apart his deceitful behaviour.

“I wondered if perhaps you were attempting to give Ren a sense of elevated importance amongst the others. And… it’s not like he really needs any more encouragement in that regard.” continued Jeanne, her words had an inflection of innocent amusement and she let out a little giggle.

Hao turned his head slightly, curiously and cautiously peering at the girl standing directly behind him in his peripheral vision.

“However,” she went on, “I am certain he has realised the exact same thing I have. And… withholding this information has likely not supported your case where he’s concerned.”

“Enlighten me, then.” bluntly said Hao, looking away from her once more. “What exactly have I been doing?”

A short silence grew between them.

“You’ll be pleased to learn that your efforts are starting to pay off.”

Hao felt the soft touch of Jeanne’s arm on his hip as she reached around him and presented him with a flyer. Amazed, Hao practically snatched it from her fingers and he gripped it tightly in his grasp as he began to read the print.

“Where did you get this?” he asked, hastily.

“It was a complete chance of fate. We’ve been having a lot of those lately.” chuckled Jeanne. “It was handed to me by a promoter on the sidewalk on my way over here. I guess that means our little detective was right, there really is another shaman nearby. I take it we shall be “collecting” them, as well?”

Hao laughed softly and smiled fondly at the familiar face on the flyer. Then he sighed deeply, realising his true mission had been rumbled by the sharp minded Elite shaman.

“All I have ever wanted is for Yoh to be happy.” sighed Hao, sadly.

Jeanne paused briefly when she recognised the sorrowful tone in Hao’s voice. She then pulled herself up on to the same branch as the fire shaman, turning herself around so she was looking out towards the urban landscape behind them.

Now finding himself even closer to Jeanne’s mirrored attire, Hao’s body became rigid as he concentrated hard on keeping his gaze on the picturesque rural views in front of him.

“Hao, I know that your Yoh is not the same Yoh from my world, but… seeing you both together in this world… I have never seen him radiate such pure joy than when he is standing by your side.”

A kind gentle smile appeared on Hao’s lips in response to Jeanne’s comforting words.

“I can clearly see that your heart - like your path in this life - was changed somewhere along the way. And… I am glad I had an opportunity to see you like this. Perhaps it was fate that you and I crossed paths as well.”

A peaceful shared silence grew between the powerful pair. After a moment or so, Hao sighed pleasantly.

“Your kind words have made me feel a whole lot better about all this… Thank you Jeanne. I sometimes think that - ”

Hao flinched and sharply cut off his words as Jeanne unexpectedly leaned closer to him to try and meet his gaze. He screwed his eyes tightly closed and froze.

Jeanne blinked - stunned by his unusual behaviour. She could immediately see that something was very wrong.

“Hao? What is it?” she asked, gently.

Hao couldn’t bear it any longer. He had to get these concerns off his chest.

He had to speak the truth!

“I…” he began hesitantly, opening his eyes and looking upward at the sky once more.

Hao’s blood ran cold and a feeling of intense dread washed over him when he saw what was above him.

Carved into the blue sky… was an enormous…

Rectangular…

Trap door.

“…now the Babylon Gate will open. What will happen when this power is unleashed? I cannot say…”

Hao closed his eyes tightly and shook his head. When he locked his desperate eyes back on the sky the giant ominous gate was gone.

“Nii-chan?”

The pair simultaneously looked back down to the ground and saw the worried expression of the younger Asakura brother looking up at them. Hao noticed immediately how his twin was carrying a brown paper takeout bag in one hand and his bright yellow water flask in his other.

Jeanne hesitated for a moment as she looked back at Hao’s worried expression - noting how he continued to avoid looking in her direction. She then sighed before she leapt to the ground.

“I’ll leave you two alone to talk.” she said softly - giving Yoh a brief smile before she took her leave.

Hao climbed down too, shoving the flyer into his pocket when his feet met the ground. As he did, his fingertips brushed something delicate and smooth within his pocket lining. He wrapped his fingers around the small pointy object, but just as he was about to pull it out and inspect it, he recognised the shape in his palm - and then he hastily pulled out his hand, leaving the stolen accessory hidden in its place.

Yoh smiled as he held out his breakfast offering to his big brother. After a moment, Hao accepted the flask, opening it and taking in a mouthful. He then leaned back against the wooden apparatus behind him.

“Thanks.” he sighed with a slight smile, placing the flask on the flat elevated surface behind him. Yoh put the bag next to his brother’s flask and then turned himself around so he was standing next to his twin and shuffled himself up against him. Yoh put one arm behind him, inviting Hao to lean against him - which he did, immediately.

“What’s wrong?” whispered Yoh, gently.

There was a pause. Then Hao closed his eyes and he sighed deeply and sadly.

“It’s just… it’s all this… lying.” he whispered in reply.

Yoh’s eyes widened slightly at his brother’s words.

“The fear I saw in your eyes when Lyserg arrived… then the relief I sensed pouring from you when he turned out to be from our fake world. We shouldn’t have to live in constant fear of the truth, Yoh. We should have just told them all everything from the very start…” Hao took in a slow inhale and then sadly breathed out, “It’s all my fault we’re in this mess…”

“Don’t say that!” protested Yoh, leaning forward to get a look at Hao’s sorrowful face, “This isn’t your fault! It’s like you said, if we find the Village it will - ”

“- we wouldn’t be having this conversation if I just… didn’t exist in the first place.” interrupted Hao, “All of this…” Hao threw up his hands in front of him and aimlessly gestured to the view of the town and the lush green park surrounding them, “…is here because of me.”

“And why is that a bad thing?” argued Yoh, his voice laced with unwavering optimism, “That’s amazing Hao! All these people have a life in this place, a place to call home.”

Hao stood up straight and took several steps away from Yoh, he paused and then looked towards the ground.

“This doesn’t feel like a home.” coldly replied Hao. “This is hell. And we’re just fooling ourselves to think of it as anything other than that.”

Shocked to hear Hao’s sudden pessimistic shift in attitude, Yoh’s mind became frantic as he tried to find the right words to express his thoughts. How could he be so happy in this world, and his brother feel the complete opposite way?

“Hao…”

Hao turned around and locked his glistening sad eyes on his little brother’s worried face,

“Something’s wrong with this world. Open your eyes, Yoh. This place is a prison. And because of me… we’re all trapped here.”

Yoh couldn’t bear it. He leapt towards his twin and wrapped his arms around him. Hao returned his embrace immediately, screwing his eyes tightly closed and burying his face into Yoh’s shoulder.

“It isn’t a prison to me,” whispered Yoh, squeezing him tightly. “We’re here together. There’s no place I’d rather be.”

A small smile appeared on Hao’s face in response to his twin’s reassuring words.

“I heard you calling to me, Hao.”

Hao’s eyes shot open at the sound of the gentle and friendly familiar voice in his mind.

“…Zeke?” he silently replied.

“I’m here now. You won’t be alone anymore.”

Hao let out a long deep sigh and his shoulders dropped. Yoh smiled as he felt his big brother’s body completely relax into his arms.

“You always know exactly what to say... Thank you.” whispered Hao, smiling softly.

The twins let go of one another and Yoh stepped back and locked eyes with Hao’s. He could see immediately that Hao’s expression had softened and he seemed more at ease. Then Yoh’s gaze drifted downward and he noticed something peeking out from his twin’s tracksuit pocket.

“What’s that?” asked Yoh.

Hao reached into his pocket and pulled out the flyer, handing it to Yoh. Hao watched as a delighted smile spread across his little brother’s face.

“I think it’s a sign that everything is finally working out.”

End of Episode Eleven

Continue here.

Enter “Alt Universe” here.

Read “Fractured Duality” here.

[aslitheryprinx]

The Red means I Love you

inspired by this animatic by @mellozheist

TW: blood & gore, temp character death

not explicitly ship, but can be read as ship if you want

~~~~~~

The crown felt like a lie on Ren's head. It was a small thing, weighing less than a helmet would, but Ren thought it must secretly contain the world for how heavily it weighed on his brow. 

He didn't deserve this. He didn't deserve the loyalty of Dogwarts, not when he couldn't protect the people who had sworn themselves to him. Not when Skizz had crawled out of the crater red red red, and Ren himself was a life down. 

But the crown was there, like a brand against his skin, and as long as he wore it he would do everything in his power to protect the people he loved. 

Even if it meant pain, if it meant death. 

His eyes fell on the axe he'd pressed into Martyn's hands barely an hour ago. The air felt far colder without his armor. 

Even if it meant willingly stepping into corruption and bloodlust so he could strike first against those who would harm his people. 

Martyn, his Hand, his most loyal friend lifted the axe in trembling hands. Oh, if only Ren had the strength to do this himself, so that his Hand didn't have to sully himself along with him. …A selfish part of him was glad Martyn was holding the axe, that he would stain his hands alongside Ren. 

The King of Dogwarts met his Hand’s eyes. He took one last, shaky breath, and knelt, baring his neck to his most trusted friend, his executioner.

Apologies spilling from his lips, Martyn swung the axe down in a deadly arc. Ren closed his eyes just before the impact. 

There was a visceral thud and pain pain red red RED R E D R  E  D- 

b̸̯̒l̵͔͊o̸̞͋o̷̰͑d̸̜̿r̷̨͠e̷̻͊d̸͓̾ā̶͈n̴̪͝ḋ̷̼p̴̢̾ȧ̴͙i̷̖͗n̶̙̆w̵͙̅h̶̰̊y̶̟̿w̴͈̍h̶̗̾y̸̛̳ẘ̵̙h̵̠̎ẙ̶͍ ̵̺͊

̷̡̹̜̈͠ẹ̵̀̌v̵̰̅͆̚e̸̱̍̐͒̇r̸̫̺͐͊͐͠y̴̫͗͌t̴͕̐h̷̘̜̆̃̿í̶̗̰͓̝͛͠n̶̯̠̐g̶͎̫͔͐̍̏h̴̨̨̖̓ͅu̴̻̩͝r̶̰͑ṯ̷̹̒ṡ̵͖̂͜͝p̷̬̮͚̬̐l̸̨̜͈̑e̶͔̩̓̏̀͜a̴͇̫͕̞̓̍̂̒s̶̗͈̖͂̋̎͜ë̸̝͎͇́̈́͋̚p̵̼͓͇̆̓ļ̵͕̜̽̏e̷̞̐̀́a̸̫͌͒ͅs̷̤̼̏̎͝ẻ̴͔̤̼̏̿p̸̧͎̲̖̀͛͗͠l̴̤̼̹̾̅̍̋e̵̖̩̬͙̔à̴͚͕̘͖̈́̊s̴̪͆̈́̚͜ẽ̵͎͉̀͆͆

̵̖̘̯̟̘̻̖̘̦̟̣̲͋̎̃̇̑̄̈̌̾̊͆̋̅̈́̂͐̇̍͝͝r̵̢̢̡̡̨̛̟͔̘̤̳̳̙͉̙̟͚̤̮̪̤̲̩͙͍̪̹̫̊̓̈́͌̄͗̓̽͋̌̎͘̕ͅē̷̙̤͕͎͚̦̼͉̳̞̘͂̈̓̉̂͛͝͝ḑ̴̙̜̝̫̭͇̬͇̙̙̙͎͚͚̥̑̔̃͑́̈͊̄̃͋̀̓̾͑̔̾̋̎̐̾͗̉͗̎̚͝͠.̸̛͕͖̱͉̜̮̪̣̙̯̮̦̟͓̜̘̪̺̪͇͋́̌͌͑͒̆͘̚r̸͉̫̲̯̩̳̱͍̟̬̹̗̭̂̔̎̂͒͆̌̆̔͑͌̈́̿̕͜ę̴̮̲̳͔̦͎̙̪̳͖͔̤͎̣̝̞̤͉̪͙̯̖͓͓̱̗͕͖̈̀͑̋̈́͂͜͜d̴̢̧̡̤̬͖̲͇̳̫̖̝̣͇͚̒̂̈͂́̀́͝͠͠.̸̰̈́̎̇̀R̴̨̨̫̖̦̻͕̮͎͈̜͖̼͎̭͙͇̪̯̼̯͇̼̠͔̙͉̀̎̅̇̃͒̿̀́̅̋̿̎͊̅͋͐́̈̾̏̍͝͝ͅͅE̶̛̟̩͋͗͗̀̓͆͐̆̌̊̾̈́̔̌̑̇̄͒͌̒̅̃̚̚̚D̸͇̥̞͇̙̋̂̈́̅̌̍̾́̚̚R̷͍͖͈̺̥͚̥̒̏͑̽͋͐̏̃̿̚Ẹ̶̢̲̪̤͕͕͉͈͍̳̉͆̑̾͗͒̑̓̈̊̓͜͝Ḑ̴̡̢̢̤͉̙͇̳̖͎̞̯͈̜͔̞̘͔͍̥̋̊̇̈́͌̃͜R̵̨̨̠̖͎̞̀̐́̃̄̃͌̾̾̏̓̃͝Ë̷̡̛͙͎͕̹̯͉̻̟̩̰̻͙͙̦̹̱̬̥͔̲̤͚́̈́̎́̈́̀̒͒̐̇͊͂͂͒̃̔͐͑́͊̀̂̀̒͘͘͜D̸̨̢̛̛̹͙̖͖̹͙̙̳̳̠̟͈͓̙̰̦͉͈̦̰̥̗̲̿̌̎̈́̿͂̿̊͛̉̅̉́͒̌́̅́̔̎̓͂̑̈́͐̈́͜͝͠ͅȒ̶̨̛̛͇̦̗̰̖͕͔̲͖̲͍͕̐̇͆̃̊̋̇͆̃́͊̃͋͒̂̾̐̔͒͐̐̉̌͗͛̐͜͝͠Ę̸̥̩̲̠͔̼̞̼̟̀̂̉́͒̈̈̂̔̓̓̐͑̾̍́̚ͅḒ̵̨̧̨̡̧̛̪͈̯̯̖͇̞̺͎͙̘̻̣̳͇̗̪̺͓̟̗̯̭̗̙͛̿̅̃͋̓̃͂́̓̌͋͒̑R̸̨̩̰̳͕̤̬̰̩̲̝̎̃̀́̀̌͑̓̈́E̸̢̨̢̯̜̫̗̟̲͕̺̰͈̼̙̝̙̳̽́͂̀̎̓̓̊̉͊͠ͅͅḐ̷̧̢̛̮̻͓̻̪͕̮͈͓̱̘̦̝̦̰̹̹̠̣̥̼̞̭̫̭̟̟̦̑̈́̌̈̅͐̿̈́́̆̓̋̀̐͐̃́́̀̀̉͝Ŗ̷̛̩͍̦̞̌̀̈͌̇̋͒̓̋͆̄͌̌͜Ĕ̸̞͎̻̲͎̹̥̬̤̟͓̜̙̜̺͈̝̫̖̘̫̥̳̰͕̪̹͓͌͜D̸̢̧̲̲̯̝̲̙͖̠̹̻͓͔͓͔͓̻͚͈̺͝ͅͅ

.

.

.

Red Winter is coming…

.

*~*~*

Martyn stood, taking in heaving breaths as he stared at the body of his king. Blood dripped from the axe in his hand, joining the puddle that was staining his boots a permanent crimson. 

Why wasn't the body disappearing? Ren had been yellow; he had one life left, so why wasn't he respawning? A chant of whywhywhy echoed in his brain. 

He couldn't tear his gaze away from Ren's head. It lay a few steps away, in it's own puddle of blood. It should be disappearing, along with the body it was no longer attached to, but it was still there. He was glad Ren's head had landed face down. Martyn didn't think he could handle the sight if he could see his king’s lifeless eyes.

Movement caught his attention, and his eyes were drawn to it automatically. 

His stomach dropped and the axe nearly slipped from his shaking hands. Ren's body was twitching. It was moving. All Martyn could do was watch in horror as Ren's headless body slowly shambled to its- his- feet.

The body of his king took a few stumbling steps. Martyn thought for a horrifying moment Ren's body was about to kick his own head, but it-he-Ren stopped just before it. With a motion that was far too smooth, the body plucked its head from the ground. 

As Ren's head was put back in place, Martyn couldn't stop himself from looking in his eyes. They were lifeless and dull, just as he feared. The Hand felt sick to his stomach, unaware if it was from the emptiness in his King's eyes or the way sinew and bone wriggled into place, slowly stitching itself together until Ren's neck was whole. 

Ren's eyes closed as he took in a breath. When his eyes snapped back open, Martyn felt a shiver go down his spine. His King's eyes were red, as red as the blood that still dripped down his neck. 

Martyn had seen the change in Scar. He'd been unnerved by the cruelty in the other's eyes, but he hadn't understood. Not until it was Ren looking at him with a cold, dark gaze. Not until it might as well have been a stranger for all the warmth his King's eyes held. 

Ren stepped closer and some primal thing in Martyn's brain screamed for him to run, or to raise the axe and fight. It screamed that this was a predator approaching. Danger! Danger! Martyn stayed rooted in place. 

His King raised a hand, and Martyn fought back a flinch. Ren settled his hand against Martyn's cheek oh so gently. It was a familiar motion, but his King's hands were soaked in blood. Martyn could feel the way crimson dripped down his cheek where Ren had touched him. 

Familiar, but marred. Twisted. 

Their foreheads settled together, and Ren closed his eyes. 

“My Hand,” he muttered, in a voice that was still warm, despite the new cruelty in his eyes. 

Martyn nearly sobbed with relief. Despite the way his instincts screamed at proximity to a red, despite the way his King's eyes were hungry for blood, it was still his Ren. 

“M’lord,” Martyn breathed, just shy of reverence. 

His eyes fell shut, and he basked in the tainted, bloody comfort, the only comfort Ren had left to give. 

[astronautbeans]

red king and skizz of the 3rd life variety ?

THANK YOU YOURE WONDERFUL <3

GO VOTE GHOST'S VAULT PEEPS I'M DOING SNIPPET REQS THERE IS A LOT OF BRIBERY GOING ON @mcyt-builds-contest

from someone who hasn't seen much of either of their povs,,,, lets see what happens :) (not entirely canon compliant i uhh did my own thing)

Of all things, Skizz shouldn't feel remorse.

He stumbled into the fort, passing crumbling cobble walls, with nearly a dozen arrows sticking from his back, as if he were a pincushion, or target practice. His arms were stained purple, but the cracks that reminded everyone of his death to that endermen were only growing in size, snaking up to his shoulders and dipping underneath his shirt. He was out of breath, he was bleeding, he was stumbling over his own feet.

And worst of all, he hungered for more. Part of him wanted to turn around. He wanted to raise his banner-clad shield and defend Ren's honour, and stain his arms even more red. Jimmy and Cleo had already fallen to him — Cleo's blood still seeped from his arms, it couldn't have been anything other than symbolism, right? He still wanted more. He wanted to sink his sword into more people- rip them apart with his bare hands and teeth to protect his king. He could. He would.

The other, smaller, scared part of him staggered over fields of potatoes and carrots and clung onto his sword to stop his hand from shaking. He'd just killed two people, permanently. They weren't coming back and it was his fault.

He half heard Etho, Impulse and Martyn chat, but he couldn't bring himself to pay any mind to it. Instead, his eyes found Ren's form. The Red King was hurt too, bleeding from where swords and axes and bows had tried to bring him down. But he looked lively as ever, as if those final deaths had made his eyes just that little brighter, and redder.

"Skizz, me laddie."

Instantly, he fell to one knee. He was more than glad to do so, bowing down deeply in front of his King. He hoped Ren hadn't seen the guilt in his face.

"You did well, Skizz," he said, the honesty dripping from his voice. Skizz believed him in an instant — what reason did he have to lie? "I am ... so very proud of you."

Ren didn't kneel to see eye to eye, but when he urged Skizz to look up, a deep trust and pride swirled in those bloodthirsty eyes.

"You did well."

He pushed the guilt aside. He'd do anything for his King. It's what he was there for.

[hellcatinnc]

Vampire Dormitory Anime Review

Spoilers Included

Ok this anime has so much confliction to me in whole I loved it but at the same time it annoyed me. I do think it is worth anyone putting on their watch list though even though for people that fall into being Ren lovers you don't want to get your hopes up will not get you anywhere. This story is based off one vampire saving a girl/boy/girl from dying when she fell by accident when she was contemplating suicide. You go on this path listening to Ruka be a cute blush boy one minute and ridiculing Mito about her blood tasting horrible. He even kept pushing her aside past his own feelings so he could be the king of vampires and be with his one true destined partner. Like yeah he saved, yeah he took her in but come on this should not have been a open and closed love story. I don't get why when you add a second guy to some anime's and I end up shipping the second guy more, this is another anime that has that happen to me. So lets break down the characters then I will go over what burned my ass the most in this anime and what I loved.

Mito Yamamoto

Such a pretty girl and I do like her as a character she isn't useless. She has her own personality she does get hurt easily but then again I think this is why I like her I can relate. The being alone, falling too fast and getting hurt easily. They need her in an otome game for sure or at least a personality like hers. Anyways she is the main of the story and I'm glad in the end she got a happy ending she deserved it.

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The cute back and fourth scenes with both guys and Mito in the picture were perfect. She looked good with both of them I'm not gonna lie. Although I still prefer her with Ren I guess too each their on in the end. It really is her story though about how she finds love and friendship and a home.

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Ruka Saotome & Mito Yamamoto

I started watching the show for this pairing however I honestly think it didn't last long for me. I mean Ruka isn't a bad guy he just listens to everyone else too much on what he should do and not follow his heart. It really was the only issue I had with him because he is a sweetheart, and is a blushy boy too. He was too easily swayed even when there was a imitation Mito he jumped right to her and even chose to save her life over Mitos'. I'm not sure why so many were against Ren but loved Ruka when he did just as many stupid shit if not more. He broke her heart on several occasions, he pushed her away, he played this pull her in to push away again, and sometimes he could be plain rude to her. In the end not gonna lie the first time he really won me over when he more the less said fuck it all I want her before he even knew it was his destined partner. I loved this side of Ruka he finally grew a back bone and went after what he wanted at any consequence. Ruka isn't a horrible character I do feel like he fits a teenage age perfectly where I feel like Ren is more grown up.

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Ren Nikaido & Mito Yamamoto

Ren stole my heart pretty early on and I think he got the shit end of the deal. So most the show is about him and Mito I swear, cause everytime Ruka is hurting her she runs to Ren. He is like a big brother/best friend trope type for sure. He tries to come off as a tsundere early on but he isn't he just doesn't take shit off people. He is lonely and has been alone most his life just like Mito this is why their friendship I think grew very fast. In a perfect world Mito would have been better off with him he would protect her like know other. However after you get to a point you can really love this man and what they have together the writers fuck it up.

I mean it too, you know when you get a certain character and you get a idea of their personality and stuff is, well this is what you get with Ren you learn who he is and how much he loves Mito whether girl or boy. However writers had to make sure people didn't like the 2nd male lead much more so the last 2 or 3 episodes makes him in to a asshole that turns her into a male so he can try to force her to marry him. This is not or has not been once the kind of man he is. I was so enraged by this, so your telling me a man who wipes away her tears, beats peoples asses that bother her, holds her close when Ruka hurts her...your telling me thats the man that would force something on her...I think not. I will hold to the end Ren is my favorite and I would have gladly took him off her hands to have a real man. OMG and when this man blushes I want to kiss him so bad. I love my blushy boys.

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Komori

Now this man likes to flip back and fourth between being the vampire king and a somewhat cute shyish type guy who is everyones boss at his restaurant. Its funny until the end no one realizes this is the same guy. I mean look at this man how can you no tell he is the same lol. Now I can't say I much cared for his attitude as the king though came off like a ass at times.

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Takara Kagurazaka

Takara really isn't anything special he is pretty geeky and you mostly only see him in a group or when he is with Juri on his own. He is crazy about girls but not a one want him. However I loved how he was with Juri always protecting him and even after Juri confessed his love he didn't blow him off. I don't think he is gay but Juri means everything to him hoping to read the manga and see if these two become more would be so cute and so happy for Juri.

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Juri 

This boy is the sweetest and the cutest like I can't even he has this beautiful little face that makes me want to kiss him. He is much too pretty to be a boy probably prettier than Mito to me and she is a girl lol. Anyways its so sweet to watch him and his little crush on Takara like I don't its not a heavy influence so people that don't like BL won't have to worry but I would love to see a spinoff with him in the BL universe for sure.

[2fuzzyartist]

Hello

This it the Mumbo x Doc story, hope you enjoy!

TW of slight mention of blood, making out, and such

Royal Garlic Bread

Written and roleplayed by Mama Fuzzy and Eldritch Horror(idk if that’s their tumblr name)

It was later afternoon when Mumbo came home with a scroll in his had, umbrella in the other to protect himself from the sun. He calls out to the others he live with; Grian, Scar, and…. Oh, Doc.

“Everyone, I have announcement!”

A big smile was plastered on his dirty face. He wore his standard suit today, his wings red as they grew inside. His antennas perking up with all the fluff in the world, his fangs hanging out as he smiles proudly

“Oh? What’s the surprise?”

Scar asks as he came out from taking cookies out of the oven, in an apron and all. He loves when there is good news, he hopes that it isn’t anything bad at least

Grian raised a brow as he ate his food. The Avian was honestly ready to run to his room to hide. He saw that scroll and knew who it was from it was from the king. He was nervous about what would happen if doc heard. He ran over and covered Mumbo's mouth slightly as he glared up at him.

“Hush it! Doc is in the house, I refuse to have another fight”

He almost hisses out.

Just as he said that, Doc came walking into the kitchen the food. He looked over at grian and mumbo before turning back to the fridge and grabbing some fruits.

"What's going on here..mhh just don't start screaming again."

Doc rolled his eye as he walked and sat on the couch as he started to eat the food he grabbed.

Mumbo’s eyes widen as Grian quickly came over to cover his mouth, him freezing. He knew Grian was serious so he slowly hid his scroll behind him on his belt. He gulps a bit, Grian being angry is a rare sight and he doesn’t want to face his wrath again

“Um… Ren is having an amazing hotdog sale?”

Scar sparks up.

“I love hotdogs! Can we go Grian? It’ll be so good to go out with everyone!”

Grian relaxed and gave him one last look before he looked over at scar and smiled softly.

"Of course we can scar. I'll take you after you finish your cookies."

He cooed and walked over to him and nuzzled against him. He then leads him off to the kitchen just in case. He tried his best to keep scar away from fights even if he knew he could handle it.

Doc glared at him as his ears twitched.

"Am i supposed to pretend like that hotdog sale isn't a lie.. you suck at lying mumbo."

He looked him in the eyes as he started to sit up. He started to trudge over to mumbo, ready to pry for what that paper really meant. He didn't like the fact that the so-called king was trying to recruit more people.

Scar cheers and goes back into the kitchen, finishing and cleaning up so they can get hot dogs

“What do you like on your hot dogs Grian?”

Mumbo clears his throat as he stands up straight, glancing away with his brown eyes

“N-nothing, really. We should get ready to go out, I needed new gloves from my room anyways-“

Mumbo tries sneaking away towards the hallway, a table there in the way. The scroll was right between his ass, his wings folded to hide it but a glimpse of it can be seen when he turns around

"Hhmm ohh i like uhh mustard or seeds." He joked softly while helping scar clean up. Grian was ready to hit both mumbo and doc if they upset scar again. "What do you like i can get anything you like on top??" He questioned softly while rufflihis hair.

Doc growled as mumbo tried to ignore him and walk away. He walked over and grabbed the scroll from his wings.He then used his paw to keep him away. He made sure to keep him pinned to the wall chest first as he opened the scroll. As he read it, he grew rather angry, which caused his claws to poke out a bit. "Are you actually serious??" He growled out as he leaned closer to the vampire.

“I like everything on it, just little bits though so I can taste everything and go to a new flavor every bite!”

Scar says happily in his cute apron, putting the cookies away in separate containers since he made everyone their favorites. He hums as he put the dishes in the dish washer, not hearing the two in the other room.

"Ohh, really, that sounds good. Come on, let's go to my room and get my money pouch it'll me my treat."

He smiled softly. Grain grabbed scars' hands and led him twords the back of the base. He could already hear the other two, and he wasn't in the mood.

As he led scar away, he chirped, and his wings puffed up as well. He was just slightly nervous they'd got dragged into a fight again. He rembers last time he felt docs claws on his wings or hurt.

~

Mumbo yelps when Doc touched his wings, some dust hitting the ground as now he couldn’t produce dust there anymore. His eyes widen as he tries turning around but Doc had him against the wall by his chest, making his struggle to reach the scroll. He is slightly weaker than Doc, sometimes he wins but lately he has not. He whimpers when Doc’s claws came out poking in his chest, ruining his white shirt as blood slowly seeps out. He stops struggling and gulps, leaning back against the wall tensely. He stares at Doc, his heart racing.

“Why do you care? He needed my help to create peace around here, said that he wants to change. W-well I’m helping him to become a better king and friend! Unlike you, you just spit fire at everyone who comes across you even when we’re not a threat”

Doc retracted his claws as he glared at the pale male and raised a brow at him.

"Im a perfectly good friend, thank you! I tried to help him, but Ren is a greedy and selfish king who is taking everything from people. I refuse to give up my perimeter just because he said i have to. it's mine, not anyone else's. Also, i have my reason for spiting fire at everyone as you say! You don't know me, and you never will, so stop trying to act all both and mighty!"

He snapped at him and shoved him one more before taking the contract and dropping it in the cup of water grian left on the table.

Mumbo holds his chest then grabs the scroll from the cup, panicking

“NO! I can fix him, I can help him get better! I promise to keep him off of everyone’s lands and such, build machines that’ll do more than good. You’re just a brute with no manners and should’ve left my business alone.”

He tries drying off the scroll and seeing that the paper was the only thing damaged. He sighs in relief and huffs at Doc, turning away.

"You fix nothing.You only add to the problem! Im not a brute of you wanna see a brute I'll shove you into the neither!"

He spat out while growling at him. Doc was ready to jump at him and attack mumbo he really was.

"You know what if i see him intruding on my perimeter, i will be after you!"

With that doc went to walk away, heading to his room to grab a few things. He was going to head out with everyone even if he didn't need much, but he was going to check a few things. As he disappeared around the corner, he let out one last huff.

Mumbo clenched onto the scroll that holds his life with a knife he couldn’t see, not knowing it’s a trap

“Oh put a scone down your throat without chewing! I don’t add to the problem, I try and help. If I do add to the problem, it isn’t on purpose!”

Mumbo huffs and goes to his room, undressing himself when the door was shut. He examines the claw marks and blood, his eyes glowing red. He starts taking his hand to gather the sweet taste, getting distracted instead of patching himself up

~

Meanwhile, Scar and Grian were having a small chat. Mainly they talked about Grian afraid to nest but Scar reassured that he’ll help anyway he could. Grian smiles and sighs, going into deep thought when he realized he left Doc’s tools in Mumbo’s room. Why? Because pesky bird did a dumb thing again and couldn’t find his own tools. He knew something was about to happen so Scar gave some ideas out. Grian smiled and happily took up on the idea, they hope this’ll work… they can only hope.

~

When doc looked for his screwdriver and couldn't find it, he growled slightly and followed his own scent. When he smelled it in mumbo's room, he barged in without knocking. When he saw his screwdriver, he glared at him.

"Why is my stuff in your room!?" He growled out at him.

Hot moment coming in

Mumbo turns around when he had blood down his slightly buff chest, his tongue and the tips ofnhis fingers covered as well. He didn’t even have pants on, just tight boxers. He stops and stares, freezing as his ears and cheeks went red. He takes a deep breath, obviously triggered

“Doc… I don’t know how it got to my room, I don’t go through your stuff. If it was lying around and I grabbed it, I apologize . BUT WOULD YOU KNOCK FOR ONCE!”

he shoves the male out, trying to shut the door.

Doc growled and tried to move mumbo so he could grab his tool he needed it.

"I'll stop barging in when you stop, just waking in when I'm taking a shower."

He snapped back at him slightly.

Suddenly, Grian appeared behind Doc, the avian way shorter than the male but he is a strong bugger. He watched as the two argued at the door, and he smirked. The avian rushed doc, and the minute he was in the room, he slammed the door shut. He was then quick to take his keys and lock the door.

"Get along, and maybe you'll get out anyway. i have to go!"

He chirped out.

When Doc went to take a step, he yelped as he was shoved. This caused him to trip and fall on top of mumbo. As he hit the floor, he whimpered as he felt the electronic bits of his body rattle as parts got knocked loose. He struggled to push himself up as he glanced back just as the door was slammed shut. Doc tried to get up and was quick to try and open it.

"Let me out of here grian this isn't a funny joke!! I will now mumbo to smithereens!"

He tried to threaten.

Mumbo’s eyes widen when he saw Doc coming towards him. He yelps and falls back, hissing from the sudden pain in his back. He looks forward and blushes madly to see Doc over his hips and the bottom of his stomach, he couldn’t move until Doc got up. When he got up, Mumbo put on some comfortable clothes and hid behind the bed. He felt so flustered and his space was being violated.

“G-Grian, let him out now. Please. I don’t want to be blown up or hurt even more!”

the male begs, covering himself in a blanket. He didn’t feel like going out anymore after that.

Grian snickered and ran off to go get scar. Once he saw him, he grabbed his hand carefully and smiled.

"Well, i took care of them for a bit. Now you and me can just relax and not worry, they wont ruin today."

He cooed and led Scar outside.

As doc realized he was locked in, he banged on the door a bit as he huffed when he heard what mumbo said.

"I wouldn't blow up. Thank you very much! I can control myself!"

He snapped at him a bit before taking in a deep breath and waking away. He found a clear spot and just plopped himself down. He then curled up like a cat to calm himself more.

Ima stop here, thought it was a good start ^^ hope you enjoy, more are to come!

[ecargmura]

Astro Note Episode 12 Review + Final Thoughts - Happy Endings For All

The ending, while happy, was something I did not expect and that’s a good thing. I mean, I didn’t predict that this show would turn into a mech one and that the mecha robot would be participating in a final battle Astro Lodge and fish aliens. I like the unpredictability this show gives!

I didn’t expect that the reason the Hubby king was after Mira was so he could marry and have babies with her. He failed with Adara, so he was settling for Mira. The reason why he wanted to marry a Wido was because he wanted to have beautiful and talented children. That’s a very dumb reason, but I didn’t see that coming. I’m guessing Widos are objectified and glamorized like how Asians are objectified and glorified by Western countries. I also didn’t expect that Shoin’s house was a spaceship and that it cannot transform into a mech like Mira’s. He was promised marriage with Mira if he abided to the Hubby king’s order, but it was all a lie. Geez, all these people are trying to court Mira, but Takumi comes out the victor because she professes her love for him to the aliens.

I also didn’t predict that the Astro Lodge tenants would be chilling and eating food. They’re so free-spirited! Though, if I was in my house that turned into a spaceship and I wasn’t the one piloting it, I too would be chilling and waiting until the pilot finishes their task. Freaking out over alien attacks would only last a moment.

Mira decides to renounce her right to the throne and decide to stay on Earth and on Astro Lodge as its landlady. I honestly did not predict this. Usually, these types of stories have it to where someone from another planet would go back and leave Earth. Astro Note breaks all of those cliche tropes. She says that she doesn’t want to be tied down by duties she doesn’t want and rule a place she had no attachment towards. Honestly, go Mira for chasing after what she wants! I’m glad that she actually decides to stay!

Mira’s decision of not wanting to be tied down actually inspires the tenants. They all get happy endings, surprisingly! Ren decides to wear skirts to school and it seems that his friend Haruto and the girl with the frilly dress are okay with it! Tomihiro feels proud that Ren is becoming confident and it seems that he got a job of his own too! Aoi finally gets a job as a legal assistant to Tasuke’s lawyer, the lady who helped her out with Tasuke when she was homeless. She even grew to like dogs as she is seen petting her boss’s Cavalier Spaniel at the same bench Shokichi sat on. While the Naosuke and Aoi romance didn’t happen, I’m glad that it stayed a platonic relationship. He’s the reason why she became more assertive now. She even gave Naosuke a radio so he can remember her with it; she even submitted an entry so that Naosuke can listen to the song she requested on the radio. Aw, it’s like what he did for her in the previous episode. Teruko is finally seeing some success as an idol as she’s on the front cover of a magazine! I seriously thought Shokichi died, but it was a fake out. It turns out that he wants to go to space with Naosuke and visit Planet Wid so that he can write a book about it; he’s trying to finish writing a sci-fi novel that revolves around a man meeting a space alien girl—sort of like Adara and Mira’s situations. Takumi gets a job in a restaurant where he works lunch shift. I didn’t expect Shoin to end up being a tenant for good and returns to being Takumi’s apprentice. He is last seen working at a bakery where he’s a hit with the female customers. The only one who didn’t get a happy end was the Hubby king and he deserves a bad end for all the trouble he caused.  I actually like that everyone got happy endings and that there’s no need for a Season 2! Everything concluded satisfactorily. 

However, Naosuke is going to go back because he wants to. Mira revokes his duty of protecting her for life, so he decides that he’s going to protect the key. I guess that’s his version of a happy ending? At least Shokichi will come along with him, so he has a remnant of Earth with him.

This is probably one of the happiest endings I’ve seen in anime. While some things did get rushed, it was a nice blend of comedy, romcom and sci-fi.

Final Thoughts

I just decided to watch Astro Note because it looked like a weird anime and I figured out I was a weird anime enjoyer. Yes, it was weird, but it was surprisingly entertaining! I do like that the writing makes it in a way that some predictable things aren’t as predictable as I would assume like with the whole ordeal with Ren liking skirts or the whole finale.

It’s not a perfect anime, but I did enjoy the characters and gags a lot. However, if I were to be a critic, I’d say that not all characters got fleshed out in this 12-episode run. There’s a lot I don’t know about Shokichi. Heck, even Takumi doesn’t get fleshed out a lot. All we know about him was that he lost his job at a hotel due to bankruptcy and is working at Astro Lodge now. I’d like to learn a little bit more about him like where he’s from or his background before getting into cooking. Heck, I would’ve liked to learn a bit more about Shoin too! I feel like characterization got shoved to move the plot forward. It’s also a crime that we didn’t see what Planet Wid looks like. Despite that, the anime does do a great job showing that Astro Lodge is a share house full of kooky tenants; the supporting cast are all kooky and it’s presented well.

The voice cast was stacked, surprisingly. A lot of A-list actors and actresses are casted here! We have Soma Saito and Maaya Uchida as the leads and the supporting cast consists of names such as Shinichiro Miki, Junichi Suwabe, Tomokazu Sugita, Rie Kugimiya and more. This anime is perfect for anyone who’s a fan of any of these actors. The only voice actress I’m not familiar with is Ai Furihata, who voices Teruko, but that’s because I’m not into Love Live. She does do a good performance, though!

The soundtrack fits the whimsical atmosphere, but I did like the opening and ending songs a lot. The opening sound is sung by Ai Furihata and the ending song is sung by Soma Saito and Maaya Uchida. I really like it when anime voice actors participate in the opening or ending songs. It makes them feel rather involved, you know?

I think that this is a good anime to just kick back, relax and laugh at the craziness transpiring. It’s nothing too serious to think about. If you like animes like that, I suggest you try watching this!

[tomorrowedblog]

Friday Releases for June 14

Friday is the busiest day of the week for new releases, so we've decided to collect them all in one place. Friday Releases for June 14 include Ultraman: Rising, Reverse the Curse, Tuesday, and more.

Ultraman: Rising

Ultraman: Rising, the new movie from Shannon Tindle and John Aoshima, is out today.

With Tokyo under siege from rising monster attacks, baseball star Ken Sato reluctantly returns home to take on the mantle of Ultraman. But the titanic superhero meets his match when he reluctantly adopts a 35-foot-tall, fire-breathing baby kaiju. Sato must rise above his ego to balance work and parenthood while protecting the baby from forces bent on exploiting her for their own dark plans.

Reverse the Curse

Reverse the Curse, the new movie from David Duchovny, is out today.

Reverse the Curse follows Ted (Logan Marshall-Green), a failed writer-turned-Yankees Stadium peanut slinger who moves back home after learning of the failing health of his Red Sox-obsessed father, Marty (David Duchovny). While Marty strives to make amends for his past, his health drops abruptly whenever his beloved Sox lose a game. To keep his dad’s spirits up, Ted takes matters into his own hands and manufactures a winning streak with the help of a crew of dad’s neighborhood pals. In the process, Ted strikes up a bond with Marty’s charming “Death Specialist,” Marianna (Stephanie Beatriz), and the prospect of a new love reignites his ambitions. An ode to the bond between father and son, this warm and witty film demonstrates how life truly belongs to the losers, and that the longshots are the ones worth betting on.

Tuesday

Tuesday, the new movie from Daina Oniunas-Pusic, is out today.

A mother (Julia Louis-Dreyfus, in a profoundly moving performance) and her teenage daughter (Lola Petticrew) must confront Death when it arrives in the form of an astonishing talking bird.

Ride

Ride, the new movie from Jake Allyn, is out today.

Desperate to raise money for his daughter’s cancer treatment, a retired bull rider teams up with his estranged son and resorts to robbery to secure payment before time runs out. But after the heist goes awry, keeping the money—and their freedom—requires the duo to outwit a dogged pair of local law enforcement officers, including a justice-minded sheriff who soon suspects that the key to her case may lie uncomfortably close to home.

Latency

Latency, the new movie from James Croke, is out today.

When Hana (Sasha Luss), a professional gamer who suffers from acute agoraphobia, is asked to trial sophisticated new gaming equipment which uses AI to interpret the electrical activity of her brain, she sees an opportunity to enhance her game. As Hana and her best friend Jen (Alexis Ren) experiment with this new technology, the line between reality and Hana’s subconscious quickly begins to blur and she starts to wonder if the device is helping her or serving a more sinister force.

Ghostlight

Ghostlight, the new movie from Kelly O'Sullivan and Alex Thompson, is out today.

When a construction worker unexpectedly joins a local theater’s production of Romeo and Juliet, the drama onstage starts to mirror his own life.

Firebrand

Firebrand, the new movie from Karim Aïnouz, is out today.

In blood-soaked Tudor England, twice married, accomplished, and educated Katherine Parr (Vikander), reluctantly agrees to become the sixth wife of the tyrannical King Henry VIII (Law). Her consent to marry him carries great personal risk, given that her predecessors are either vanquished, beheaded, or dead. When Henry appoints her as Regent, the nation’s ruler during his absence when he departs to fight overseas, he lays a dangerous path for her. Henry’s courtiers, suspecting she’s sympathetic to radical Protestant beliefs that have taken root in the kingdom and are a threat to their power, scheme against her and cast doubts upon her fidelity to the increasingly ailing and paranoid King. Once Henry returns to England, his courtiers convince him to turn his fury on the nation’s radicals, including Katherine’s childhood friend Anne Askew, who becomes one of the scores of people convicted of treason and burned at the stake. Horrified and privately grieving, Katherine finds herself under ever-increasing scrutiny and suspicion. Knowing that even a whisper of scandal might lead to her downfall, Katherine must unleash her own scheme to fight for survival.

Bad Behaviour

Bad Behaviour, the new movie from Alice Englert, is out today.

Lucy, a former child actress, seeks healing from the traumas of her life. She embarks on a spiritual retreat, only for it to become anything but healing: she’s easily annoyed by the other attendees and wants attention from the retreat’s new-age guru Elon Bello. Even worse, she has become destructively obsessed with the retreat’s celebrity guest, a model named Beverly. As Beverly finds “enlightenment” easily, Lucy’s feelings of insecurity continue to rise to the surface. During this time, Lucy also tries to connect with her stunt performer adult daughter, Dylan who’s currently on set in New Zealand. Dylan’s falling into an obsession of her own: a bad romance with the main actor Elmore, whose insistence on doing his own stunts will have disastrous consequences. Brutal incidents in both women’s worlds force them to back together to confront their personal demons and their own relationship.

Inside Out 2

Inside Out 2, the new movie from Kelsey Mann, is out today.

Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” returns to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley just as headquarters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions! Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust, who’ve long been running a successful operation by all accounts, aren’t sure how to feel when Anxiety shows up. And it looks like she’s not alone.

Nightmares and Daydreams

Nightmares and Daydreams, the new TV series from Joko Anwar, is out today.

Tales of supernatural sci-fi phenomena unfold in this collection of seven mind-bending stories imagined by writer-director Joko Anwar.

Fallen Aces

Fallen Aces, the new game from Trey Powell, Jason Bond, and New Blood Interactive, is out today.

The A.C.E.S, watchful guardians of Switchblade City, are being taken down, one by one. Now it's up to one man, with two fists, to get to the bottom of it all. Fallen Aces is a crime noir FPS that plays right out of the '90s and looks like it's right outta the comics.

[ethtyn]

ll2 liveblog: etho's pov

love the way he just throws us into the action with "you have 24 hours to live, good luck," everybody scatters. you're so right king the rest of the rules are totally unnecessary <3

fucking. then he makes skizz explain the rules. girlboss behaviour tbh (LOVE that we get the boogeyman back !!!!!!)

"(keeping all of the moss) is what i wanted to do too, but i didn't want to get blamed for it, is pretty much what it boils down to" me as fuck. also, second of the three G's (gatekeep).

MARTYN ASKING WHAT THEIR IDEAL FINAL MEAL WOULD BE AND SKIZZ'S ACCIDENTAL PAUSE AFTER "MY WIFE"

pLEASE THERE'S SO MUCH MARTYN IN THIS EPISODE ALREADY. FOR THE LOVE OF GOD IF THEY DON'T TEAM

like. look at them.

PLEASE PEOPLE STILL THINK ETHO HAS A BOOGEYMAN TEXT DELAY 😭😭😭 aaaaand that makes all three Gs, LET'S HEAR IT FOR GASLIGHT.

i know it's like asking a fish to breathe normal air but Etho please i am trying to manifest a Martho (Etyn?) team up PLEASE stop making him think you're boogeying 😖😖

(i'm five minutes into the episode btw aren't u so glad i haven't been doing individual posts this whole time)

NAURRRRRR NOT SKIZZ ALREADY 😭😭😭 Grian's "i see the rules don't apply to you?" lmfao

BRO ANOTHER BOOGEY IN 7 MINUTES OF VIDEO? please. my heart

HELLO?????? SKIZZ AGAIN???????? SKIZZ STOP BEING ALONE I'M BEGGING YOU DUDE

WAIT i didn't even realize this breaks timmy's curse, at least for first green death of the server. n*ce

Scar with the fall damage 💀 ppl are dropping like flies LOL

bro the fact that Etho's stuck with Martyn this long. i am going to THROW UP. pleasepleasepleasepleasePLEASEPLEASEPLEASE...

"i'll give you some wood as a...as a reward" ayo ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

it's actually really interesting seeing exactly how much video is being cut out. we're 11 minutes into the video but 30 minutes have already gone by in the session. i don't remember exactly but aren't sessions 2-3 hours? cutting that down to 44 minutes is fuckin impressive in that case actually

"okay so we've proven that none of us are the boogeyman right now" HAVE WE GRIAN?? because i heard Tango super unconvincingly say he wasn't and NO ONE ELSE.

"did you flinch? did that freak you out?" you little freak. i love you and am kissing you on the mouth

KCMXKFKD Grian buying Etho's loyalty with a diamond sword..."i will serve you however you wish"...GRITHO ENJOYERS WINNING

I'M CRYING i paused to write that last point and then IMMEDIATELY upon unpausing Grian's like "good, now kill Martyn 😈" and Etho's like. "actually? 🤔 Martyn wya 👀" STOP IT. STOP KILLING MY MARTHO DREAMS.

aaaaand they left him in the Nether. i hate it here OTL

i was so focused on Skizz whispering sweet nothings into Etho's ear (giving him a lovely compliment) that i didn't even notice Jimmy and Joel dying in lava until Martyn asked if it was a boogey kill LMFAO helpppp

WAIT STOP. EVERYBODY SHUT UP.

"CAN'T BELIEVE YOU REPLACED ME WITH A COW, ETHO"

"HE KEEPS ME COMPANY AT LEAST"

I HATE THEM.

"oh, so you're gonna make a boat with a new friend, hey Joel?" [Bdubs voice] ETHO STOP IT.

Jimmy's "sorry Rancher 🥺" after Joel kills the cow 🥴🥴🥴

wait where tf is the enchanter this season? did Grian finally get a clue and use spawn protection if they did a single enchanter again?

hello again Martyn 👀

"can i buy your silence about this spot." "i guess so. you got any diamonds?" "how 'bout wood, you want some wood?" Etho stop trying to give Martyn your wood 😩

oh RIP Cleo, they really are playing on hard mode from the first episode this season

Scarcledubs teamup? 👀👀👀

the way Etho looks at Bdubs after he says the breed stock comment. the dismissive "i'm not interested". i need to lie down (is already lying down)

THE WAY HE INSTANTLY TRIES TO YOINK BDUBS WHEN CLEO ASKS IF HE HAS ROOM ON HIS TEAM (she is so Tired lmaoooo)

I JUST REALIZED THERE'S NO REN THIS SEASON....DEVASTATING

i am so sorry 👇🏻

"do you wanna be our dad?" "...i don't think i could handle it."

👆🏻 sorry again.

this bit is going weirder places than i just took it tbqh

Etho confirmed not 43 (yet)

Pearl & BigB teamup??? also Pearl double-fisting diamond hoes on the serial killer server is objectively so funny

Etho sowing discord and distrust wherever he goes my beloved <3

HELLO AGAIN MARTYN...BELOVED...PLEASE STAY. look Etho is even setting up by himself... there's room for you too...

SKIZZ AGAIN I'M FUCKING LAUGHINGGGGGG (also RIP impulse)

"got me...got me excited" ETHO I AM BEGGING YOU.

Martyn accidentally killing their last cow with the fucking lava bucket 😭😭 you can tell he's genuinely sorry too JFNFJCKFKF

SOMEONE DROPPING A FUCKING LIT BLOCK OF TNT DOWN A HOLE AND PRAYING IS SO FUCKING FUNNY. no way that was a Martyn boogey attempt he's so much more calculated than that?????

it's so endearing to me that Etho's first instinct is to call people by a nickname out of their usernames (that isn't what everyone else calls them) unless they're a closer friend (Littlewood, Skizzle, etc). also RIP BigB (it was Martyn, turns out 😩)

this whole negotiation with Cleo. "Cleo let me steal your cows 🥺" "no." "🙄🙄🙄🙄 FIIIIIIIIINE" god the POUT. obsessed. also SO proud of him for getting over his fear of Cleo one attempt at stealing her cows at a time <3

i haven't watched Martyn's POV yet but if he fucking fell down one of Etho's holes to his death i am going to CACKLE WILDLY especially considering Etho made a comment about it TO HIM (i think) earlier in the session. "i've done this in every smp i've ever joined and people fall down them and get mad at me" LMAOOOOOOO

we got a "take care, bye-bye" 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺💖💖💖💖💖

[howlingday]

tragic backstory (tm) au) after jaune's little sister leaves it's time for the vital festival, but cinder thinks she might have to change her plans with jaune arc around, the stories about the boy are... troubling, to say the least. meanwhile neo wants to kiss that nora girl, if she knew just how much fun she could have had with writing the backstory of blondie she would have put even more crazy shit in there! oh well, better late than never!

Clashing Canon!

The city of Vale begins it's daily, or rather nightly, shift as the sun sets behind the towering skyscrapers. Children run inside for supper before going to bed, resting for another day of school. Employees of various businesses make their way from work to either home, or the local bar. Said bar owners and employees open their doors to the awaiting public, ready for the ritual of drink, pay, leave to begin.

In one of these bars, a man sips at his glass as he reads the paper. Stocks rise and fall, sports team win or lose, and politicians do what they do best; lie, cheat, and steal. He chuckled at the familiarity of the ideal. Setting down his glass, he shifts his hands to drag on his cigar, puffing smoke into the paper's most interesting story.

"Royal Line Restored?"

"Could the King of Vale's Descendants Walk Among Us?"

Roman: People will believe anything these days. All it takes is one little rumor, and people think you're the king of the world. Almost enough to make you laugh, huh, Neo?

Neo: (Filing her nails)

Roman: To be honest, I don't care if the kid actually knew my sister. I didn't know she was dead until last week, and I still don't care!

Neo: (Raises her brow)

Roman: Listen, last I heard from anyone in the Torchwick family, my old man died after pissing off the wrong card shark. What happened to my sister isn't any of my business.

Neo: (Rolls her eyes)

Roman: Exactly! But if playing along with this game gets us off scott free? Who am I to say no? Speaking of, did you get what I asked?

Neo: (Reaches under her, Materializes her scroll)

Roman: (Chuckles) Talk about "out of your ass!" (Neo pouts) Now, what have we learned about Jaune Arc?

Mercury: I heard he killed a Deathstalker with his bare hands.

Emerald: I heard it was two, and a Nevermore.

Mercury: Psh, yeah, ri-

Cinder: Enough! I've had to listen to these rumors incessantly since coming to this school. You don't honestly believe these stories, do you?

Mercury: Of course not, but it's still fun to listen to. The guy's as harmless as a corgi, but everyone is hyping him up like he's a god. It's hilarious!

Cinder: If you have time to listen to rumors, then you have time to listen to our plan.

Emerald: Another change, ma'am?

Cinder: Indeed. We'll have revise our approach. We can no longer trust the blueprints we gathered from Atlas, so the robot will have to be exposed a different way. More subtle, less obvious.

Mercury: Uh huh, and this has nothing to do with the rumors?

Cinder: I'll admit, there is merit to spreading rumors and using heresay. If we can get the population to believe she's not human we can break Atlas' trust with the public.

Mercury: And this has nothing to do with the rumor Jaune Arc is an Atlas battle android designed to protect Atlas, but went rogue and now thinks he's human?

Cinder: Of course not. Rumors hold no sway over my mind.

Mercury: I think the, "Eugenics in Robotics" book says differently.

Cinder: (Hides book, Blushing) D-Don't think! Obey!

Jaune: Ugh! Finally! (Falls into his bed) They're finally gone!

Nora: Aw, and I didn't get their number.

Jaune: Another good thing about today.

Pyrrha: Jaune, if you don't mind me asking, why didn't you tell us your sisters were coming?

Jaune: Because they didn't tell me until they were already on their way. Them landing at Beacon was the first time I spoke to them in months!

Ren: When was the last time?

Jaune: Uh, probably after they already left home. They moved to start their dreams as wedding planners and dress designers.

Pyrrha: Are they any good?

Jaune: I can't speak for Vi, since I don't know anything about her wedding planning outside her binder, but Indie is pretty good. Check out this dress she made my future wedding. (Shows off his wedding dress)

Pyrrha: (Blushing) Oh my... I'm sure your bride will be very happy to wear it for her big day.

Jaune: Bride? This is my dress.

Pyrrha: What?

Jaune: Yeah, it's weird, I know, but it kind of grew on me the more I thought about it, y'know? (Gets up) I gotta go to the bathroom. (Steps in, Shuts the door)

Ren: So, what's the story now, Nora?

Nora: Hush, Ren! I'm instigating...

Ren: Investigating?

Nora: That, too! Mm... Gah! I've got nothing! I can't figure out why Jaune would wear a wedding dress!

Pyrrha: It's fine, Nora. I'm certain it could be worn beautifully, even by Jaune.

Blake: (In the ceiling) It's a bit bland for a wedding dress.

Nora: GAH! CEILING CAT! Also, hi, Blake!

Blake: He says it's his wedding dress, but is that the whole truth?

Nora: Huh?

Blake: (Drops down) The Luna Tribe was notorious for many things, including their simple, yet beautiful dresses. Perhaps Jaune is nostalgic of them, and asked his sister to recreate them.

Pyrrha: The tribe that enslaved him? But why wear something from such a dark time in his life?

Blake: Do you see that band around the waist? Only the elite of the tribe was permitted to wear this.

Ren: It's spite.

Pyrrha: It's brave!

Nora: IT'S PERFECT!

Jaune: What is? Oh, hey, Blake! When did you-? (Knock, Knock, Knock) I'll get it!

Neo: (Door opens, Waves in her disguise)

Jaune: Oh, it's you!

Neo: (Flutters her eyes)

Jaune: No, I didn't forget! I just lost track of time. (Turns to his team) I'll be back, guys. Mint wanted me to show her around. I'll meet you guys at dinner. (Steps out)

Blake: Well, this plot seems to be getting more and more interesting...

[skylarstark4826]

I absolutely loved this beautiful Star Wars Fanart of the LGBT polyamorous ship of Reylux of the characters of King Skywalker (King Palparine), Armitage Hux and Ben Solo (Kylo Ren) together and above all because even though I am a big fan of the ships of Reylo, Kylux and Reyux together I also love the Reylux ship and above all because I really would have absolutely liked that in Star Wars Hux and Ben had joined The Resistance as well as their beloved King and then the 2 would also have met her and that they would not have hesitated to protect her from evil and that secretly Ben was already aware that Hux was the spy of The Resistance and then it happened that instead of Ben having betrayed it then both would have fled together but also and above all because I would have really loved that Hux and Ben had been saved and survived but also that they had left with Rey with The Resistance but I would also have liked the idea that Hux would have been a Force Sensitive just like his beloved Rey and Ben and also because at the same time because every time I think of a polyamorous relationship in Star Wars I can only think of Reylux's ship. And I won't lie to me I really love the way Ben and Hux are hugging their beloved King against their bodies while the 3 are together and completely in love… And I won’t lie to you, I also would have liked the 3 to have become a Canon in the Star Wars movie: The Rise Of Skywalker and say honestly that every time I think of a polyamorous relationship in the Star Wars movies I can only think of the Reylux ship… honestly

By the way, these beautiful Fanarts of them are not mine and the credits are not for me, but I will let you know that right here I am going to leave you the link of the real creator on Tumblr