#we also look for crabs and seashells together

[eros-fixx]

toshiro hitsugaya + "beach"

900 words. fluff. adult!toshiro just being a Mom at the beach, but also a simp. idk he’s just sassy.

Toshiro hates the heat, but he likes you. That's how the two of you end up at a beach getaway in the World of the Living. While he had his protests—

(“I have paperwork to catch up on.”

“Let your Lieutenant do it for you!”

“Rangiku? Actually doing her work? Hilarious.”

“You need a break!”)

—you were dead-set on your vacation and had your sales pitch ready.

(“We can eat watermelon shaved ice and build sandcastles, or use your zanpakto to make ice sculptures, or whatever you want! We can walk along the beach when it’s cooler in the evenings."

Not entirely convinced, he opened his mouth to retort when you pulled out your ace card. Your last resort.

“Plus… I may know a way to get Matsumoto to finish her tasks for a few days.”

“…Fine.”)

He was sold.

Truthfully, he did need a vacation. His sense of duty just made him a hardass about accepting one.

Plus... it meant he got to spend more time with you.

Pressing the back of his hand to his brow—it's sticky, with sweat, he notices sourly—he follows just a few paces behind you as you flit about the beach. Despite himself, he feels a smile tug at the corner of his lips at your childlike wonder.

"Look, 'Shiro! It's a crab."

"We should catch one and cook it for dinner."

“Ahh, look how many pretty shells washed ashore.”

They were pretty, but he could think of someone with more beauty.

"Hm. They're nice."

"Do you want to build a sandcastle?”

"You'll get burnt," he says as he eyes your exposed skin.

Of course he slathered on as much sunscreen as he could before stepping onto the beach. Yet you denied his offer to rub some onto you with a wave of your palm, a simple boast of how you simply tan in the sun.

How opposite the two of you are, yet how well you mesh together.

He's been told he’s cold, like the winter personified, like the reiatsu that constantly shrouds him. You're warm, almost burning in intensity, like the summer heat that threatens to melt through him. You're in your element here.

Nonetheless he’s watching you intently to make sure your skin doesn't burn.

Maybe he also just likes looking at you, so carefree. He could just reach out and press his lips against your sun-kissed complexion—

He shakes his head to rid himself of the urge. The heat seems to be seeping into his thoughts. He crouches down, picking up the bucket that you discarded. He takes a moment to note your height difference. Gone are the days when he was considered too young, where you towered over him. Now he can revel in the fact that you have to tip toe just to reach his chin.

"You're doing it wrong," he says as he observes your sand creation. “That kind of castle would never survive the tide."

He helps you, rolling his eyes good-naturedly as you fleck some sand at him in response to his critique. When you look away, he does the same, a sludge of sand slapping your knee. You gasp and he raises a brow.

He used to hate doing things that made him seem too childish, all too aware of how people saw him—as the young, inexperienced prodigy.

Yet with you... he finds your laughter infectious. Whether it's you giggling at the way a crab burrows its way into your castle, or even at how he gripes about the heat.

He finds he doesn’t mind indulging in these juvenile activities. When it’s with you.

You venture towards the shore in search of seashells as Toshiro pats more wet sand onto the base of your castle. It's only when you call his name triumphantly that he looks up.

His eyes widen.

Not because you're proudly holding up a conch, but because the tide is hurtling towards the shore behind you, threatening to engulf you.

You don't seem to notice.

"Watch out!” He’s moving before he can even speak, managing to grab you before water crashes onto the shore.

In a flurry of waves and movement, the both of you fall onto the sand, his arms cradling you to him. Water threatens to invade his nostrils but he exhales roughly. He nearly swallows a mouthful of it before the tide recedes.

And then he’s propped over you, on his hands and knees, water dripping from his hair onto you, the both of you sopping wet. You cough up some seawater, but you're fine. Toshiro's brows furrow.

"What were you thinking?" he says tersely.

You could've died. You worry him sick. He takes his eyes off of you for a few seconds and you nearly die.

"Were you even looking? You could've drowned—”

He's not sure who leaned in first, but the kiss interrupts him. Despite himself, he can't refuse, clutching you closer to him, pressing his lips against yours insistently.

You taste like salt and the sun and he wants you so badly.

But he also wants to keep you safe.

The two of you break apart with flushed cheeks and short breaths, and Toshiro huffs, pressing his forehead against yours.

"You're ridiculous, you know that."

"Yeah, but I'm your type of ridiculous."

Your giggle breaks off into a gasp as another tide washes over your bodies, this time gentler.

"That's it." He grumbles, jerking back his slicked hair as you cough up more water. He gets to his feet, reaching out a hand for you. "We're drying off."

[speedyartist30]

Lurelin Village 🐠

Another Botw art challenge with @stellercherry✨✨ For this one we had are ocs in Lurelin Village aka probably one of the most coziest places in Hyrule ✨🥰

This is Lucas and Jay enjoying some roasted Porgy. Below is a short story leading to this scene 🐠

A cool breeze swept through Lurelin Village, the calming sound of waves brushing against the dock. After helping clear out some bokoblins that raided the village’s boats, Jay stuck around to help them bring in their catch back into the village.

“Here’s the last of the Porgy, Garini.” Jay called over his shoulder.”Looks like you had a busy afternoon.”

“Sure did.” Garini chuckled and wiped some sweat off his brow.” Thanks again for the hand with my shop,Jay. Not to mention the monster clean up too.”

Jay gave a small nod and passed over the woven basket of freshly caught Porgy. He watched the man set up his shop as he hooted and hollered to come check out his products.

With a somewhat weary sigh, Garini rested he’s hands in his hips and asked,”So how’s your kid doing?”

Jay glanced at him before facing the beach where Lucas was standing near the shore. A orange seashell was his hands which he held protectively to his chest. When the waves brushed up against his little feet the boy giggled and hopped back. Jay watched with a soft smile.

“He’s doing a lot better. It’s actually my first time bringing him here, he’s still getting used to being around others.” He said softly.

Lucas looked up from the cool water and towards them and gave a wave to Jay, who returned it with one of his own. It was nice seeing Lucas steadily coming out his shell. Jay watched Lucas scamper away from the water and to a mound in the sand. The four year old was attempting to make a sand castle.

Looking back towards the shop Jay reached into his bag and took out a pouch full of rupees.” Hey, how much for some Porgy?”

The man looked up from wrapping some crabs for a mother and her child, he waved his hand,”It’s on the house Jay. Call it a thanks for helping me and the village today.”

Grinning he adds with a nod towards the beach,”Besides a great fisherman always shares his catch with the little ones.”

“Thank you, I’m sure Lucas will enjoy it.”Jay smiled,” I’ll take five porgy if that’s alright.”

Garini gave a thumbs up and wrapped up the fish for him to go. Jay gave a short wave as thanks and stepped off the dock as more people came to shop. The sand crunched under him as the smell of seawater and cooking seafood wafted through the air.

Before he got a chance to make his presence known Lucas already saw him and abandoned his sandcastle. Jay chuckled softly seeing his son’s little form crossing the beach.

“Papa!” The four year old giggled and hugged his leg tight. “Are you done working now?” He asked hopefully.

Jay rubbed his hand through the boys curls.“Yep, I’m done for the day kiddo. I also got us some fish for dinner tonight.” He showed Lucas the wrapped fish which had the boy bouncing on his feet.

“Yay! I love fish!” Lucas cheered, his timid demeanor fading into excitement. He stood on his tiptoes to get a better look.

The boy asked if they are going to cook in one of the outdoor pots, but to his confusion his papa shook his head. “Not this time. We’re going to cook this by a fire.”

Lucas eyes widened “But won’t it burn?” He asked worriedly.

“Only if we don’t watch it, but that’s why I need you to find the perfect place to make a fire so I can cook this.” Jay ruffled his hair,”Can you do that kiddo?”

Feeling reassured Lucas bobbed his head and took Jays hand so they can look together. On this very important search Lucas told him all the things he did from playing in the water, seeing fish and making his castle.

“And then this really big crab came and it had a stick!” Lucas said in wonder,” It was swinging it like a sword. Do you think the crab was a knight?”

Jay looked down at those big brown eyes as he answered him.” I think so, and maybe there’s a whole kingdom down in the ocean.”

Lucas gasped quietly, his hand tightening around his fingers,”Really? A whole kingdom?” Jay smiled,”Maybe, who knows. If there is I bet it’s beautiful just like the land we live in now.”

Lucas stared at him before turning his gaze back to the deep sea,”Is…bad people there?” He whispered before looking up to his papa.

Jay paused his steps and crouched down to Lucas level,”No, I don’t think there bad people there. In the sea everything is clam and soothed by they waves. Just like our world has the breeze and sun.”

Giving Lucas hand a squeeze he gave a soft smile,”Remember what I said about the bad never being alone?  The good always come to keep the bad away. The same thing goes for people. You know good people too right? That keeps the bad away?”

Slowly Lucas nodded his head,”Like you save me…from the yiga.”

“Mhm, I kept their bad away from you and you keep bad away from me every day.”

“I do?” Lucas questioned with confused eyes.

“Yep, you keep the bad from me by being the sweet little boy who makes my life feel so much brighter.” He ruffled his sons hair,” And i didn’t even have to teach you that, you always been a good kid.”

Lucas face flushed in a bashful expression and he hid his face into Jays shoulder. Hugging him with his free arm Jay pat his back,”Alright, I’ll stop making you feel shy now.” He knew Lucas was still trying to get used to praise, the boy experienced so much hardship that kindness felt foreign to him.

Standing up he pat Lucas back,”Let’s find this spot so we can enjoy this fish.”

Taking Lucas hand, Jay goes to find a decent spot to start a fire. As he passes a few others already settled down he felt a tug in his sleeve,”What is it Lucas?”

The boy points ahead and Jay followed his gaze to see a gray rito sitting by herself and staring intently into a fire of her own. Seeing how eager Lucas looked he knew his son wanted to say hello.

“Go ahead and call her name. You can do it.” He encouraged him. Lucas hesitated before taking a deep breath before shouting,”Ms Rylei!”

The Rito warrior lifted her head up and she spots them. Lucas perked up when his voice reached her,”Papa, she heard me!” Lucas whispered excitedly as he pointed to her,”Can I say hi?”

“Sure, I bet Ms. Rylei will be happy to see you.  I’ll be right behind you.”

Letting go of jays hand Lucas ran over to her, stumbling a little as his small feet sinked into the sand. He noticed Rylei wing twitch when Lucas steps faltered a little. Jay shook his head and mumbled with a soft expression,”She’s definitely got a soft spot for him.”

When Lucas finally reached her he gave a shy wave,”Hi, Ms Ryeli.” He said a little breathlessly from the trek in the sand.

“Hi, little master Lucas.” She replies in her usual quiet voice.  Before asking what he’s been doing on the beach. He tells her about his adventures on the beach and how Jay was helping the fishermen. He pointed behind him to show Rylei where Jay was with the fish.

Stepping a little closer, he fidgets with his shirt and ask timidly,”Can you eat fish with us, please?”

Rylei watch the child step closer,  her focus shifting to his fidgeting little hands, a clear sign he was nervous. She nods, “Hmm, that sounds really good, of course I’ll eat fish with you.”

Letting out a small sigh of relief, Lucas climbed onto the log she was sitting on. He kicked his feet to help climb up, his head accidentally bumping into her wing. He liked being by her side, she was quiet and gentle and his papa told him that he was getting better with talking to others more. That alone was a huge milestone for him and handling his social anxiety, which he felt more confident about when he spoke to her.

Jay caught up not long after to see Lucas showing Ryeli his seashell he found near the shoreline. He greeted Ryeli as he started prepare the fish, the two fell into conversation about what kept them busy in the village today. Lucas moved closer to him to watch how the fish was made before his attention went back to Ryeli to ask about what, “Mr. Vali,” was doing.

Jay really appreciated Ryeli being there for his son and he was grateful that she became another person Lucas felt safe to be around when he wasn’t nearby. Setting the fish up so they can cook Jay sat on a log across from them as Lucas alternated to sit Rylie and him.

When the fish was cooked and crisp he passed them around. He made sure to give Lucas the small fish to make it easier to eat.

“Careful its still a little hot, Lucas.” Jay said firmly before handing Lucas his fish.

The boy took it cautiously as if he was holding the most precious thing in Hyrule. Puffing up his cheeks he blew on the fish to help cool it down. As usual he had Jay check so he wouldn’t burn his tounge…Again.

“Ok, it’s cool enough to eat.” Jay reassured. Happy to eat, Lucas too a big bite from his fish while his feet kicked back and forth in delight.

The moment between the three of them was something Jay strives to give to Lucas more. Calm peaceful moments with good food and people he could trust. It was a life he wanted to live with his son and couldn’t wait to show Lucas more of the beautiful land they live in.

[sapphireluna96]

Encantober 2023 Day 6: Heart

Today was the day the entire Madrigal family started to take the week off of helping the Encanto. While each family member each had two days off throughout the week, there was only one week in the year they all agreed to take off together. That was also agreed upon by the town, since they were the ones to see firsthand each of the Madrigals overwhelm themselves in their own way that they agreed to take that weight off their shoulders.

The Madrigals usually spent the week spending time with each other as a family around the town. This year, they decided to spend the week out of the Encanto to travel more and find more places to visit in the future. They went to the town just north of the Encanto and stayed in three hotel rooms, since each room only had two queen-sized beds. Julieta and Agustin took the first room with Isabela and Mirabel. Pepa and Felix took the second room with Dolores and Antonio. Alma and Bruno took the last room with Luisa and Camilo.

The Madrigals found a beach near the hotel that they decided to go to on the first day of the week. Once they made their way to the beach, the Madrigals found a spot to put their chairs and bags that was spacious enough for all twelve of them. While they got quite a few annoyed glares from beachgoers because of how many of them there were, they just minded their own business because they never let other people ruin their week. Antonio saw a long row of seashells by the shore and wanted to collect some.

"Mami, can I go for a walk to collect shells?" he asked.

"Si, Tonito; just stay with Mirabel and don't go out too far." Pepa replied as Felix helped put sunscreen on her back.

"Yay!"

Antonio and Mirabel made their way to the shore to find some seashells that struck their eye. They found all kinds of seashells throughout their walk; small ones, big ones, and many in different shapes. The two youngest grandkids stopped in their tracks when Mirabel found a unique shell that no one has ever seen before. It was bright red, with several rough edges, and was shaped like a heart. It was the most beautiful shell either of them have ever seen.

"This must be a super rare shell," Mirabel pointed out as she held the shell up to the sun.

The shell shined and sparkled in the sunlight and Mirabel and Antonio were never more fascinated by anything their entire lives. Mirabel put the shell back down to let Antonio hold it.

"Do you think it belongs to a type of hermit crab we've never seen before?"

"Maybe; it could also belong to an exotic type of snail. Let's show everyone else the shell, since we should go back anyway. It's almost lunchtime."

Mirabel and Antonio made their way back to the family's beach spot with the shells they found. As they continued walking, they saw a young girl that was about Antonio's age crying by the water. Mirabel stopped with Antonio and ran over to the girl.

"Excuse me, I noticed you were sitting here upset. Are you okay?" she asked.

The girl sniffed before she could reply. "I can't find my mami and papi. I went swimming and came out to find them for lunch; now I don't know where they are."

Mirabel sat next to the girl by the water. Antonio followed and put the bucket of shells next to him. "Do you remember what they looked like?"

"My mami had dark, curly hair. Her skin color is just like yours. She was wearing a purple bathing suit with a flower on it."

Mirabel was impressed with how well-spoken the girl was. It reminded her of herself when she was her age. She stood up from the shore and tapped Antonio on the shoulder for him to also stand up.

"Just stay where you are right now. My cousin and I are going to try to find your parents for you. If we find them, we'll let them know and we'll come back for you."

The girl got up and hugged Mirabel. "Gracias; I'll stay for as long as I need to."

Mirabel and Antonio then left the shore to find the girl’s parents. Antonio used the shells they found to make a trail so they could find their way back to the girl when they found her parents. The two found so many seashells that the trail should be long enough for them to make a trail to find someone.

“Remember, Antonio, we just need to find a woman with dark, curly hair with similar colored skin as me wearing a purple bathing suit with a flower on it.”

Antonio nodded and kept on making the trail of seashells. They got further away from the shoreline until Antonio lifted his head to see a woman that looked exactly like the girl described wearing sunglasses and a beach hat sitting in a beach chair under an umbrella with a book, with a man next to her, who must have been the girl’s father.

“Do you think that’s the woman?” Antonio asked.

Mirabel looked in the direction Antonio was pointing in. “That should be her mami! I would like to ask her if she has a daughter, but she seems so relaxed right now and I don’t want to disrupt that.”

Not that long after they found her, the woman closed the book and put it in her beach bag and took her sunglasses off. She then reached for her husband’s chair and they held hands. It must have been a sign she was finished reading for the time being.

“Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go ask her if she lost a child!” Antonio said as he grabbed Mirabel’s arm and ran to the umbrella.

The couple looked at each other, then Mirabel and Antonio once they got to their chairs and stopped right in front of them. She never felt more awkward her entire life, considering the fact that she never had to confront anyone about a missing child before

“Hola; I was wondering if you had a daughter that was about five years old wearing her hair in braids and a little sun hat?”

“Si; is there anything you need?” the woman asked.

“Well, I saw her by the shore crying, and she was scared that she lost you while she went swimming because she couldn’t find you.”

The couple sprang from their chairs. “She’s lost!?” the man asked in shock.

“Not necessarily, my cousin made a trail of seashells in case we also got lost and couldn’t find her while we went back. We can just follow the trail of shells and we should find her.”

The couple smiled at Mirabel and Antonio and got up from their chairs. The four of them followed Antonio's trail of seashells. Antonio led the way and put each seashell back in his pail one by one. The couple felt like they were going at a snail's pace with Antonio stopping to pick up the shells, but Antonio was just excited to put the shells back to show the rest of the family. It was not long before they got to the shore and found the girl sitting at the same place she was when Mirabel and Antonio first saw her. Mirabel walked up to her and tapped her on the shoulder.

"Excuse me, I think we found your mami and papi," Mirabel said.

The girl looked up to see her parents behind Mirabel and Antonio. She stopped crying, smiled excitedly, and got up to run up to them and give them a hug.

"Mami! Papi! I was so scared I couldn't find you!" the girl exclaimed.

"Lo siento, querida; we're sorry that you couldn't find you. We're just happy you're okay," her mother replied.

Not that much later, Julieta and Pepa ran over to Mirabel, Antonio, and the family. "There you two are! We've been looking all over for you!" said Julieta as she gave her youngest daughter a hug.

"We saved lunch for you two since we figured you must be starving! Where were you?" Pepa asked.

"We were about to come back for lunch until we saw this little girl right here crying by the shore. She was lost so we looked for her parents."

"Are these your mamis?" the girl asked.

"Si; this is my mama, Julieta, and my tia, Pepa."

"Let me just tell you how amazing your children are. They saw my daughter crying and their first thought was to find us. You are both amazing mothers that raised your children to have the best hearts," the woman explained.

"I'm Maria, by the way. Gracias again for finding my mami and papi," the girl said.

"I'm Mirabel, and this is my cousin, Antonio."

"Maria, before you leave, I want to give you something," Antonio said as he dug through his pail of shells. He dug through until he found the rare, bright-red, heart-shaped shell he and Mirabel found before finding her. “I know you may never see us again, but I want to give you this to remember us by.”

Maria smiled as Antonio handed her the shell. “It’s the most beautiful shell I’ve ever seen. Gracias, Antonio.”

Julieta and Pepa stared in awe at the shell, along with Maria. “Where did you find that shell?” Julieta asked.

“We found it by the shore. We have no idea where it came from, but we thought it looked cool, so we took it with us,” Mirabel explained.

“Well, we’re going to keep it in a safe place when we get home. Don’t worry, Mirabel and Antonio, we will not forget you after this generous gift,” Maria’s mother said.

“We won’t forget about you either, Maria,” Mirabel replied.

Mirabel and Antonio hugged Maria one more time before they went their separate ways. As Mirabel and Antonio walked back with their mothers, they gave their youngest child one more hug.

“You know how proud we are of you,” said Pepa.

“The fact that you found a lost girl and found her parents for you says so much about both of you as people,” Julieta added.

“Gracias, mami, tia; I really do hope that they really won’t forget about us,” Mirabel replied.

“I’m sure they won’t, they will probably put that heart-shaped shell you gave them in a special box that will open whenever they feel lost,” Pepa explained.

The four of them continued walking back until they found the rest of the family by their lounging spot so Mirabel and Antonio could have their lunch. They told the rest of the family what happened when they collected the shells and told the story of the bright-red, heart-shaped shell that started it all.

[creativity-central]

Blog 10: Mermaids

A common artist tradition held in May is Mermay. It’s nothing official, but the pun sounds nice and it lets people have an excuse to draw as many mermaids as they please, whether they be original characters or favorites turned into mermaids! So, this months post is going to be a bit more lighthearted in nature by giving some observations I’ve seen in mermaid designs that could help you in the future, and in the future Mermays to come!

There’s not a single right way to draw mermaids, as long as part of them is a human and part of them is a fish (although the human part is preferably the torso and up). In fact, it doesn’t even need to be a fish. Lots of mermaids have been created with other aquatic wildlife, but let’s start simple before we reach that point.

Talking about mermaids will almost always bring up Ariel in people’s minds, her red hair and contrasting green-blue tail are just too iconic. However, her kind of mermaid is the simplest out of the ones to be mentioned here. Her fish side has tail fins, scales, and nothing more, and she wears a purple seashell bra. Other than these two aspects of her, there is nothing separating her from a normal human being, making her design feel like two beings stitched together rather than a whole.

The point of a mermaid may be that contrasting feel, and if Ariel is the ideal design you want in a mermaid, feel free! However, when considering mermaids as an actual singular creature, and bypassing the friendly vibes needed for a children’s’ film, you can get really creative with what you put into a mermaid.

When I think of an interesting depiction of mermaids, what comes to mind is the popular web comic Castle Swimmer. Not only that, but a variety of animals are referenced when creating the people of this world, from octopi, to sharks, to hermit crabs. So how do they do it?

The first thing to note here is that, unlike the Little Mermaid, this rendition decides to include more features of the fish. Not only are the tail fins included, but there can also be other parts of fish anatomy. In these designs, the dorsal fin is logically placed on their backs. The variety of fins on a fish are essential for proper movement, so including them in these mermaid designs makes it feel more believable. Not all aquatic animals have fins, but it’s good to acknowledge this even when designing other mermaids. Including additional legs, spikes, or whatnot to create a more cohesive design rather than putting a torso and tail together could be what brings it together.

Not only that, but the animal a mermaid is based off of can influence the physical appearance and clothes worn by the human side. Remember how Ariel looked like any old human without her tail? That isn’t the case here, as you can see their skins share the same scales and colors as their fish sides. Not only that, but features such as gills, sharp teeth, and webbed hands can make your human side look like it belongs underwater. You may need to go out of your comfort zone and mess around with physical features in order to find what fits. Some characters in Castle Swimmer have elongated noses or funny mustaches to go with their creature, and you might have to make the same cartoonish choices too!

Clothes are highly influenced by a mermaid species and their culture, so up to this point it really depends on whether you want the mermaid design to be lighthearted or have a deeper meaning, whichever makes it fun! That being said, a big part of clothes is just getting experimental. Some mermaid designs implement trash into their designs because of rampant water pollution, and how actual aquatic life can get stuck and choke on littered plastic! When considering culture, think about what your animal may represent or, if you’re an animal nerd/willing to research, find out what the animals can actually do and what their lives are like. More feisty animals can have battle armor, while intelligent species can make use of complex tools alongside their outfits, the list goes on.

I hope this shed some light on how the designs of mermaids can work, and how diverse you can get with them. I hadn’t even gotten into the trend of turning mermaids into cryptic creatures due to how scary deep sea wildlife can be! There’s truly a lot to be done. Mermay is an opportunity to have fun and draw mermaids for the sake of mermaids, but it can also help exercise your creativity and go beyond your comfort zone! Even while the month comes to a close, there’s nothing stopping you from designing a mermaid any time of the year, so why not try it out now? Use some suggestions from this post, pick an animal you like, or maybe one that’s more uncommon in the mermaid community, and have fun drawing! That’s all for today, see ya around!

[jade-parcels]

🐚A seaside vacation together!🐚

With Kaeya, Xiao and Zhongli (separate)

This whole event has me super inspired!! I love the islands, I think they’re so beautiful! I can’t wait to see where the story will go from here now that all of the others have arrived too!!

—————————

Kaeya:

Diluc says in one of his voice lines that Kaeya loved summer as a kid and seemingly still does! And in addition to that, their shared echo conch lines show that the two would go hunting for seashells together too

So going on a little beach vacation together would be a dream come true for our favorite cavalry captian! Not only does he get to bask in the sun, but he gets to see you in a swimsuit! Kidding….unless…

Kaeya will be at the beach all day so be prepared to sweat and have sand on you! And bring an umbrella too so you can have some shade!

He loves to play in the water too, he’ll definitely splash you and try to dunk you under! He’d love if you did that to him too :) being here makes him feel young again, it’s nice to shed his adult responsibilities with you for awhile! Just the two of you, watching the waves and the crabs run across the sand :) perfect!

Once the sun sets, he’ll wanna skinny dip…. Make sure no one else is around first lmao

“Hey Kae, you might wanna take the eyepatch off so your face tans evenly~” “Oh knock it off! Who told you to say that? Paimon?”

He’ll also insist on camping on the beach too! Cuddling to stay warm and telling goofy ghost stories just to get a laugh out of you before you go to sleep

By the time your vacation is over you’ll be sunburnt and your sides will hurt from laughing so much over the course of your time together <3

Xiao:

He doesn’t really….get it

When you bring him to a secluded beach and tell him that it’s time for a vacation, he’ll look rather unimpressed

“You know I’m always on call. I have to be ready to slaughter demons at any given moment-“ “I know that! Don’t be a party pooper, Xiao!”

He does like to swim and he does seem to enjoy laying in the sand with you but again, he doesn’t exactly get the appeal

He’ll only get it once he sees how much fun you’re having. Xiao does his best to understand whatever you like and y’know what? This is actually pretty easy for him to understand. You enjoy the warmth of the sun, the sound of the waves, the cool water, the hot sand, the pretty shells…Yeah, he gets it now

Xiao will do everything you tell him to pretty much. He’ll get in the water, he’ll make a sand castle and he’ll slaughter any crab that dares to raise it’s pinchers at you lmao

He wouldn’t like a long vacation cause tbh he can’t really sit there and enjoy it for long. A weekend getaway is all he can handle but as long as he gets to see you smile like this, he’ll come to the beach every day for you

“Hey! Look at this shell! We should take it back to the inn with us!” “Don’t we already have a blue one?” “That one is a light blue, this one is sparkly” “If that’s what you want I guess” cut to the next day when you catch him delicately arranging the shells in rainbow order on your nightstand

Zhongli:

Arguably one of the best people to take a vacation with

He has so many stories about all of the various beaches in Liyue, if you let him plan the trip it’ll be amazing

Zhongli loves to bask in the warm sun, you won’t see him in the water much but you will get to see him in all of his archon marked glory

He’d love for you to lay beside him all day long in the sand, chatting the day away with the sound of the rolling waves in the background :’) beautiful

His idea of a vacation is quite literally…doing nothing. So if you want to look for shells and stuff tell him!! Don’t get me wrong of course Zhongli will want to do those things with you! It just won’t really cross his mind until you mention it

Zhongli doesn’t really swim though. After fighting Osial…Battling his hatred for seafood…And the fact that rocks sink instead of float…he’s not going any deeper than his knees into that water lmao

“Isn’t it interesting to think that all of this sand has come from various mountains? And underwater structures? I find it fascinating to see the results of weathering in this way” “yeah…I guess it is nice sand”

He’ll bring food to the beach for you guys too!! Again………in order to avoid having to eat fish

You’ll notice that he looks at you with such admiration and love. Maybe all this time in the sun is turning him into a bigger softie

[scarletarosa]

Dagon

Greater god of the sea

While Dagon is not an outer god from the Void, he came from somewhere beyond our solar system and entered the Earth to dwell in its seas. He is still, however, an immensely powerful deity and is very difficult to comprehend. Furthermore, Dagon is the same deity worshiped by the Canaanites, Philistines, and Babylonians under the same name. He was praised as a fish-tailed god of the seas who ruled over fishing and agriculture. These civilizations all worshiped gods of water as agriculture gods due to water being needed for the irrigation of crops. Thus, he is not truly linked to agriculture, but it’s something he has secondary connection to because of water’s importance in the fertility of the land. When Lovecraft received his horrific visions of the outer gods, he witnessed some of the greater gods as well; one of which was Dagon, in his true form. This inspired Lovecraft to write stories, but he was unknowingly connecting to many truths in what he wrote since his mind was influenced by the vast deities who made themselves known to him.

Appearance: Dagon is an enormous, aquatic humanoid-amphibian with green-yellow eyes, and a massive sea serpent-like tail. He also has fins on his arms and legs. Overall, Dagon looks very similar to the above image.

Father Dagon is one of the greater gods who rule over the race of beings known as the Deep Ones. These are humanoid, fish-like beings who are often said to mate with humans, which produces a hybrid offspring. The hybrids are known to have the blessing of the sea and spend their lives feeling scorn for humanity. They are always filled with an overwhelming desire to abandon the land for the ocean and go to the Deep One city of Y'ha-nthlei. Eventually, they leave land to dwell in the sea once they are matured and more physically aquatic. Those humans who seek to be close to the sea and join its depths worship Father Dagon and his mate, Mother Hydra. These two gods are only surpassed by Cthulhu in regards to being deities of the ocean, since Cthulhu leads all of them, including the Deep Ones. Two known books which hold secrets of these gods of the deep are The Book of Dagon and the Cthäat Aquadingen.

In the ancient past, Dagon was one of the Shepherds of the Sea, meaning that he would watch over the sea creatures and protect them. He also used to come upon land at times and wander beaches before returning to the sea. Though now, since the ocean is full of toxins and is no longer alive with as much mystery and beauty (especially after the death of so many ancient sea-races), Dagon has been filled with sorrow. He now usually keeps to himself, deep in the shadowy depths of the ocean. Despite what some may believe, Dagon is not a being who is destructive and cruel; he is typically a very gentle god who is filled with great wisdom and compassion. However, when Dagon is angered, he is terrifying and can easily cause immense destruction. He is only willing to speak to humans who respect both him and the sea, especially since he has long been angry with our race for causing so much pollution and slaughter.

As one of the Lords of the ocean, Dagon is a mysterious and majestic deity who knows the sacred secrets of the deep, watery world surrounding us. For all the millions of years that have passed untold, the sea keeps the ancient knowledge hidden in its enigmatic depths. Those who worship Dagon earnestly and truly love the sea may have the rare honour to experience the truth of the ocean and some of the knowledge which Father Dagon holds. This can cause an immense sense of longing towards the sea as one wishes to delve into it and never return. We seek to become one with the ocean, forever in its embrace and beyond the reach of humanity. As the sea is the primal womb of our Earth, the Mother always beckons to her true children. There, Father Dagon and Mother Hydra await, calling their sons and daughters into the waves.

Offerings: aquamarine, turquoise, green calcite, amber, seashells, pearls, shark teeth, star fish, dried sea urchins, seaweed, crab shells, coral, sea sponges, cuttlefish bones, anything else from the sea (unharmed), limes, tangerines, watermelons, Mediterranean pinecones, calendula flowers. Listen to the song Dagon by Graham Plowman since it connects very well to his energy.

Incense burner with the following placed on it: at least three burning charcoals, clams, crushed sea urchins (dead), and sea salt. Burn these all together as an offering, but careful not to breathe it in due to the strength of smell.

[peaches-writes]

don’t you worry, baby

member: chan 

wc: 1.4k

genre: fluff, summer au, childhood friends to lovers au, beach day au

warning: explicit language

note: third installment to the skz cheese agenda (skcheese? lmao) + eun is the name of the mc from doll in this fic!

The occasional tourist would give you strange looks as they pass by, wondering why you and Chan would plant your tie dye mat and beach umbrella set so close to the waves crawling back and forth. The two of you have learned to ignore them over the summer years, however, too busy giggling over the way the water would tickle your bare feet on the hot sand and occasionally bring in the most random of objects. 

Especially now that an entire academic year of the two of you separated in different colleges has passed by, this being the first summer that the two of you could spend together leisurely without the worry of school requirements or part-time jobs in the city. 

As per your long-standing childhood beach tradition, the two of you compete in collecting 8 of the same things that you find under the sands or the waves bring in—this time with a carefree conversation on just about anything and everything that you’ve missed in each other’s life the past 10 months. It’s a tight battle this sunny Friday afternoon, with you guarding 6 olive shells in the space under your folded legs while Chan has a nice line of 5 cerith shells he’s worked hard in digging while ranting about one of his younger siblings hanging out with Seo Changbin. 

“Why are you being like this all of a sudden, anyway?” You chuckle in amusement as your conversation on tonight’s beach bonfire party suddenly finds its way back to Chan expressing his disapproval of the younger boy from your neighbourhood. “This is the first time I’ve heard you remotely close to being mad at someone and he’s not even some random stranger your sibling suddenly started hanging out with. It’s Seo Changbin. We literally raised that punk when we were kids.” 

“Exactly, it’s not ‘cause he’s some guy.” Chan pouts, angrily poking a random twig he found on the way to the beach into the sand and occasionally poking out a harmless crab crawling out of the little hole he’s made while picking up shells. “It’s because he’s Seo Changbin.” 

“So?” You shrug, feigning an innocent tone over your mischievous smirk as you watch him sulk next to you. Arms crossed over his bare chest and folded legs and chin resting on top of his folded free arm like a child, everything about him right now just simply looks so endearing and funny at the same time. “Isn’t that a bit better than just, say, a guy who suddenly popped up when we went to college? You know Changbin well enough and Eun definitely knows Changbin super well since they’re classmates. If he screws up, then you know where to find him. If he takes care of them, then you know how to thank them.” 

“Since I know him, I’d be more disappointed when he screws up.” Chan rolls his eyes, lazily tilting his head to the side to glance up at you waiting for the waves to come back. “Anyway, are we even talking about the same Changbin, Y/N? Even if we grew up with that punk, he also smokes, drinks, has a lot of tattoos and piercings, and scares a lot of his classmates.” 

This time, it’s you rolling your eyes as you try nudging him off-balance with your arm to his thigh. “It’s not like you didn’t smoke, drink, or got piercings with me without auntie’s permission when we were in high school. If anything, I’d like to think he got that from us.” You point out with a scoff of disbelief, eyeing the helix piercing on his right ear that now sports a safety pin earring different from your matching golden stud one. “Plus, you know Changbin only gets a bad rep in his batch because their classmates aren’t exactly the nicest people out there. He’s nice, has good grades, and he showed me his acceptance letter to my uni the other day. You’re just picking out ‘bad traits’ now because he’s dating your sibling.” 

“Ya—” 

You cut him off with a palm in front of his face immediately, sensing his pout grow bigger even with the back of your hand blocking his face. “Admit it or not, Eun’s an adult now who can date whoever they want, even a childhood friend. And Changbin’s a friend so I’m sure it’s all going to be fine.” With a giggle, you then use your other hand to pick up another olive seashell that washes up on shore as if on cue. “You have good intentions, I understand where you’re coming from, but you gotta stop worrying, you big baby. Just worry when Changbin does screw up—though if you’re asking me, I doubt he will.” 

Chan scrunches up his nose, just as another cerith shell surfaces from his mini excavation site on the sand. “Hm, I don’t know. I still can’t shake it off.” He practically whines like a child, his hold on the poor and almost broken twig loosening the more he thinks his thoughts and rants through. “How did this even happen? We literally raised Changbin and Eun ourselves when we were kids...”

You snicker at this, swiping an olive shell from his excavation site as you see it. “Now, you’re picking on him being a childhood friend? What’s your problem with that now?” 

Chan waves both of his hands up defensively in front of him, shaking his head. “It’s not like that! I don’t have problems with childhood friends dating or whatever, not at all! I’m just saying that, all of a sudden, Changbin’s taken an interest on my sibling! Doesn’t that sound a little random to you? Why now, when they’re about to leave for college?”

“Nope, it still sounds like you have a problem with childhood friends dating.” You teasingly accuse with a disapproving shake of your head before shrugging. “You know, sometimes stuff like that just happens! With people you’ve known for so long, sometimes you just fall for them out of nowhere because you start seeing them in a different light! I mean I, for one, like someone I’ve known for a really long time like Changbin but it’s only rece—”

“What?!—” 

“It’s only recent because I thought they were cute when I saw them again.” You finish your thought despite the abrupt shift in Chan’s expression. Eyes wide, posture suddenly straight and alert, and the twig branch in his hand held up like a threatening knife, you bite down your lips in between certain phrases and sentences as you hold back your laughs. “Maybe if we were like 16 again or something, I’d find it gross. But since we’ve been away from each other for a long time and have only been talking on call until lately, I miss hanging out with him and he’s super duper cuter now than before so—yeah, it just happens! It’s normal and totally not weird!” 

“Wha—you...you like someone?!” 

“That all you picked up from my long ass speech? That’s not even my point. My point was to defend Changbin and your sibling dating.” You furrow your brows and feign a frown. “I’m disappointed. You really are a big baby, barely comprehending anything in that pea brain. Oh dear...” 

But as if Chan’s thoughts are still transfixed on your previous statements, he ignores your mocking comment and repeats, “You like someone?! Do I know this guy? Also, what do you mean you’ve known him as long as Changbin and I and why don’t I know this gossip?! Ya, not you too, Y/N!” 

You tease him further with a shrug before picking up an olive shell that the wave brings in, exclaiming in victory. “Ha! I win!” You stick your tongue out at him, picking up your 8 little shells in your cupped hands. “I should make a bracelet out of this, ‘no? For cute guy I’ve known for a long time.” 

“Who is it?!” Chan pesters you even further, poking your rash guard with the twig branch. “Who’ve you been hanging out with since we were kids besides me and Changbin?!” 

“Don’t you worry about him, you big baby, he’s harmless.” You put your collected shells on the side and wave your sandy hand dismissively. “Now, I don’t think 8 shells are gonna cover your entire wrist so would you mind help me picking up more? We could walk a little and check the lagoon.” 

m.list

@skzwriternet 

[smolbean12]

Stars and Strawberries

Hinata Shouyou x GN! Reader

Genre: Fluff

Warnings: Mentions of throwing up, mentions of drinking, curse words (?)

hinata, beach and ice cream are my favorite things. why not put them together? also for context: the olympic are on a trip to a beach somewhere in Japan. some of the team members also brought their s/o with them. i changed the title too. hope you all like it :)

The setting sun painted the sea and the sky a beautiful red. The occasional breeze felt like a warm hug. Sounds of seagulls and the waves were drowned out by the loud laughter of the people. You scooped out another spoonful of your ice cream sundae and hummed in satisfaction when the sweet taste flooded your mouth. To your far left, you spotted Hinata laughing at his teammates, who were down on the sand. The laughter, however was short-lived as Kageyama threw a ball at Hinata calling him a dumbass. You chuckled and finished the rest of your sundae.

You decided to walk around till the game was over and you could have Hinata all for yourself. The sand was warm and you spotted tiny crabs digging holes. Kids were looking around for seashells while their parents rested on the sand. You inhaled the salty scent of the sea, feeling completely at peace. Hinata was right, the sea was a great place.

"Y/N!"

You turned around just as something-someone-crashed into you. You fell on the warm sand with a loud oof, along with Hinata-the person who ran into you.

"Hinata, what the hell?" You tried to push him off of you, but he wouldn't budge. Hinata, giggling like a toddler got up and held out his hand for you. He pulled you up into a hug as soon as you held his hand. You could only squeak as his muscular arms wrapped around you, pulling you into his chest.

"I beat Bakageyama! Now I have a 3 point lead!" Hinata beamed. You laughed and congratulated him. Kageyama, who was nearby, yelled, "You only won 'cause it's beach volleyball, dumbass! I'd totally beat your ass on the court."

Hinata stuck his tongue out at him. He turned to you and spoke, a little softly, "Let's head back to our room, yeah?"

"Sure."

Hinata groaned in relief as he plopped down on the bed. "Hinata you're gonna get sand on the bed," you said, though you were too tired to even care. Going to the beach was fun, but energy-draining at the same time.

Hinata whined. "Y/NNN, I'm really tired. We'll dust it off later."

You hummed, closing your eyes and giving in to sleep. Almost. As Hinata shook you awake by the shoulder.

"What is it?" You didn't open your eyes, afraid you would lose the sleepiness that you had.

"Did you try that sundae I told you to? Did you like it? Do you wanna eat it with me again now?"

You let out a loud whine. This was what he woke you up for. You opened your eyes and playfully hit his shoulder. "Hinata you big idiot!"

"I'm very hungry. Can we have it now?" He pouted and rubbed small circles on his stomach.

Sleep had magically left you and you were on your feet before you even registered it. "It's gonna be dinner time soon. So let's have it after dinner?"

He instantly brightened. With an enthusiastic whoop! he went to take a shower. Meanwhile, you took a spare towel and dusted off the sand on the bed.

Dinner was filled with laughter and yelling. Hinata and Kageyama were so, so close to starting a food fight. Atsumu and Bokuto had a drinking contest much to Sakusa's distaste. Akaashi had tried to console him but Sakusa waved him off, saying that a drunk Atsumu was a pain and that he threw up almost everywhere. The entire table erupted in laughter, including Sakusa who smirked at Atsumu. The dyed blond clutched his chest and pretended to be hurt. "You wound me, Omi-kun."

"Your heart is on the left, you idiot." Was all that could be heard from Sakusa as everyone burst out laughing again, even Atsumu.

After finishing his fight with Kageyama, Hinata pulled you away from the crowd. When you questioned him, he silenced you by placing his pointer on your lips. He took you out of the hotel and towards the ocean that looked like dark blue ink in the night. The sky was littered with stars and you spotted a few constellations.

"Come sit here babe." Hinata flopped down on the sand and patted the empty space next to him. You sat down and rested your head on his shoulder.

"I brought the sundae, too! I got a large one so we could share and- Oh! I asked for extra toppings, too!" He held the glass of sundae in front of you. You couldn't care less that you didn't see it before, the ice cream looked wonderful. Hinata had probably ordered a strawberry one, if the pink scoops of ice cream and the dark syrup were to be believed.

"Say ahh, Y/N." He had already brought the spoon towards your mouth. The sweetness of strawberries filled your mouth, making you hum in satisfaction. This was better than the one you had in the afternoon. You looked at Hinata, who was looking at you expectantly.

"This is so good," you exclaimed.

His face lit up. "Of course it is. That's why I get it everytime I'm here."

The two of you ate while watching the stars. You had moved closer to Hinata, craving his warmth. Hinata had a loose arm wrapped around your waist.

"Oh! Y/N look! If you join those stars over there–the ones slightly left to the moon–they look like a volleyball."

You squinted at the small, shining dots. You sighed, slightly amused. Trust Hinata Shouyou to see something volleyball-related in everything. You playfully elbowed him in the ribs. "You only ever think about volleyball, huh?"

He grinned big and wide. "Volleyball and you are the only things on my mind."

You laughed though your face was as red as the strawberries in the sundae. Hinata, who was still grinning, leaned in and kissed your cheek.

Softly, you whispered, "I think about you all the time, too."

Work by: @smolbean12

[photolover82]

Masked Singer Season 5 Episode 3 Recap: Group A Returns With a Wildcard (Commentary & Guesses)

Hi guys! Welcome or welcome back to Ana’s Masked Singer recap, where I, Ana, recap every single episode of The Masked Singer. Ok, so I'm on time this time I swear (I try to do these the weekend after the show airs or Friday), and now we are starting to get the wildcards which was super exciting and Joel Mchale was guest judging so it was a very fun episode to watch! We’re back onto Group A but this time someone new joins the group, so stay tuned until the end to talk about that someone. Anyways, let’s get into it, starting with the eliminated contestant:

So the eliminated mask was...

*DRUMROLL PLEASE*

The Raccoon 🦝

Commentary: honestly, I am not even the slightest bit surprised that he got eliminated... he should have gone home earlier but that’s neither here nor there, the Masked Singer likes to do that to us so whatever. But like honestly this is gonna sound mean, and look, not everyone is a singer, and he gave it the good old college try and I respect the hell out of that, but omg all I gotta say about his performance of Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash is yikes. That’s it, that’s all I gotta say about that... anyways, let’s reveal this rodent or mammal, idk man who told you guys I was an animal expert?!

Raccoon was revealed to be (I got this one too yay!)

Danny Trejo

Yeah, I guessed it baby! I even have proof, just look at my 1st recap of the season and it’s there, I got it! Yayyy! Anyways, I mean I know him, I have seen him around ofc (he has done a lot of acting and he even has a restaurant and everything), but like he can’t sing and that’s ok, he had fun, it’s what matters. Good job Danny Trejo and thank God he’s gone because finally my ears can be in peace.

Having said that, let’s move onto our remaining 4 (yes, 4 because wildcard baby!):

1. Seashell 🐚

Commentary: Her performance of Confident by Demi Lovato was to me much better than her last performance. It seemed like she was more confident (hehe no pun intended) in this one, kind of came into her own and let out the power in her voice. She was a bit timid and nervous in the first performance and it kind of reminded me of how Jellyfish started out, but this one was a lot more diva and powerful, I enjoyed it a lot. I really love Seashell, she is quickly becoming one of my favorite contestants (except nobody can beat my favorite who you will see in a moment)

I am doubling down on my guess:

Tamera Mowry

Clues/Reasoning: ok, like this one I feel super confident about and the clues kind of seal the deal for me:

The doodle of “Seashell with the shell mask on”= reference to the intro of Sister Sister

A certain shell man asked her out and the baseball on the screen= she is talking about her husband, Fox News correspondent Adam Housley (which btw is another reason why she is on this show, bc it runs in the Fox family), who used to be a professional baseball player (oh and the required her to do things she was scared of means that he helped her feel more comfortable about being on TV aka when she was on the Real)

2 minute stopwatch= she’s older than her twin sister, Tia, by 2 minutes haha 😂 (this was a very weird thing to be like yeah bro ik that... again I say, Google is a magical thing)

2. Robopine 🦔

Commentary: He sang All of Me by John Legend and honestly song choice was 👌, like I would have picked that for him too. It was absolutely stunning and I can just close my eyes and enjoy the song, which that’s what some of the best ballad performances tend to do. I absolutely loved it, he is my favorite, if you can’t tell, and this was my favorite performance of the night. I have a prediction that Robopine might make it to the finals honestly because he is just that amazing.

I am changing my guess and I am more confident now with:

Tyrese Gibson

Reasoning/Clues: alright so I know that he isn’t 60 but I have a feeling he is lying about that and that he’s from Costa Rica (that’s too direct of a clue to be true you know and I feel like he is lying... Ken did say in the beginning that Robopine is the most confusing, so I do think that he is lying)... anyways clue time:

A lot of superhero clues= he will be playing one in Jared Leto’s Morbius film from Marvel

The lying means something = he has an album called Alter Ego, someone in the YouTube comments told me that he did a shoot with GQ called “60 the new 30” so that’s where the age thing might come from

IT SOUNDS A LOT LIKE HIM, OK?! Legit this is the most logic bomb I can give you right here... he’s trying to fool us but the voice is what matters... if you wanna compare voices go ahead, here’s a video that can help (it helped me even though the background singers kinda took over, but you get the point, it was live)

3. Russian Dolls 🪆

Commentary: THEY DIVIDEDDDDD... omg there’s 3 now! I FREAKING CALLED IT!! Anyways, they sang Wonder by Shawn Mendes and again I say their harmonies are so on point, it’s fantastic! I throughly enjoyed this performance, it was great! Their voices work really great together (ofc duh because they are a band... they have to be) and it was a really great song choice as well.

Again, I am gonna double down here (and them being 3 makes it even more convincing for me):

Hanson (All 3 of them this time)

Reasoning/Clues: ok, so now that there’s 3 of them, I don’t have to sound dumb and be like ummmmm it’s 2 of the Hanson brothers, which two I am not sure, but two of them. This time I can say it is all of Hanson, all 3 of them! WOOO! This performance really solidified it for me. Anyways, here are the logic bombs aka clues:

He was doing what he loved and rushed to the hospital = Zac, one of the brothers, was involved in a motorcycle accident in which he (get this, it’s really bad like reading it on Google made me go ouch that must have been a terrible accident) broke three ribs, his collarbone, and scapula.

The fire truck= the fire department was involved in the accident, which he spoke about in October 2019

4. Surprise! It’s Wildcard Time: Introducing the Orca (whale) 🐳

Commentary: ok, so he performed We’re Not Gonna Take It by Twisted Sister, and it was meh, it was ok. He sounds like a comedian, and his voice is so familiar, it’s killing me. Anyways, he is talk singing the entire time and there are parts where he sounds out of breath, so I don’t think he is a professional singer. The costume though (since I couldn’t really review that beforehand) looks like a pool floatie on top and a blue version of Banana from season 3 from the chest down, which is kind of cool (I would give it a 8/10 if I were to rate it). I really love that top head part, it looks super great, the costume designers killed it.

Ok, this one I am more unsure about but I am gonna say that I am between these 2:

Bill Burr or Adam Sandler

(Burr is the one pictured below, couldn’t put both images because Tumblr doesn’t let me do more than 10 pictures so just pretend you can also see Adam Sandler’s photo)

Reasoning/Clues: I am gonna have to skip this one... because I am not sure about this one, I am just going off of voice, the clues confuse me, but you have any ideas, feel free to comment them please, I need all the help I can get.

So that’s it, wildcard and all. I hope you guys enjoyed this, I am so sorry for the picture issue, it’s something that bugs me about Tumblr but whatever. I will see you guys in the next one, where we will see Group B sans Phoenix perform and add in a new wildcard, which omg I know who it is I just don’t know what it looks like, but it is the CRAB 🦀! Anyways, I will see you all next weekend, please like, comment, do all the social media things! Bye everyone! 👋🏼

[encyclopika]

Animal Crossing Fish - Explained #136

Brought to you by a marine biologist who collects seashells by the sea shore...

CLICK HERE FOR THE AC FISH EXPLAINED MASTERPOST

We have covered SO MANY animals with shells during this series. From the mighty Gigas Giant Clam, to the ferocious Whelk, to the delicious Manila Clam - animals with shells come in all shapes, sizes, and lifestyles! Besides the ones you can catch, there are a bunch of shells laying around on the beaches of your island that you can collect and then make really awesome DIYs (some featured in the picture below). Now, before we get started, I’m gonna lay out some ground rules for myself - unless it’s obvious, I’m not going to try and name the shells to species. However, I will cover the group of animals the shell comes from. I am also not going to cover the Giant Clam Shell, since I covered it already. This is going to be a very long entry lmao

Alright shells...what are they? Basically, a shell is a hard outer-layer that an animal produces. They are usually made of calcium carbonate, and I covered this in detail when I talked about the Dungeness Crab. Most shells you would call a “seashell” come from mollusks, as do the majority of the seashells in ACNH. Mollusks grow their shells from the part of their body called the mantle, which has lots of other functions besides growing the shell. Mollusk shells grow with the animal, layer by layer from the bottom, out or forwards, kind of like your nails. They do not shed their shells; finding their shells on the beach means the animal has perished (this is unlike the shells you may find of crabs, who do shed their exoskeletons). 

Other things you may consider seashells are really any hard animal remains, like coral fragments, crab exoskeletons, urchin tests, and even turtle shells, if you’re that lucky. Anyway, I’ll try to go in order as you see them in the picture above (yes, that’s my villager):

Sand Dollar

By Frédéric Ducarme - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=57615200 I chose a picture of a sand dollar alive because honestly, I didn’t realize just how much I didn’t know about them. Sand Dollars are Echinoderms, specifically a group of Sea Urchins that are flattened like pancakes in the Order  Clypeasteroida. They are mostly scavengers and predators of very tiny zooplankton, as well as feeding on algae. Underneath the layer of spiky skin is a hard exoskeleton called a “test”, which is what you find when you find sand dollars on the beach!

Sea Snail

Sea snails are very diverse. Heck, Gastropods - the snails and slugs - are the most diverse of the mollusks. And it’s funny they just call this one “sea snail” when most of the seashells are snail shells. But whatever. This one is from snails of Family Trochidae, the top snails (their shells look like tops, the spin toys? I’m just making it clear, cuz I got confused for a split second myself) Anyway, these snails are mostly herbivores, feasting on algae and detritus, with a fair few being filter feeders.

Summer Shell

Okay...the summer shell really doesn’t represent anything real, but it is definitely another snail, most likely some kind of whelk, SuperFamily Buccinoidea, judging by size and shape alone. 

Coral

Coral is fascinating, but I’ll try to keep it brief. A coral reef, like that shown above, is made of very tiny animals called coral polyps that cement themselves on top of each other into huge reefs. These tiny animals are Cnidarians, which means they are very closely related to the jellyfish and anemone we covered a while ago (yes, they have little stinging tentacles and everything!). Each coral polyp builds itself an exoskeleton, like a little cup it can sit in during its life as it filter feeds from the water. This hard structure is left behind when the polyp dies, making for a new spot for another coral polyp to settle. The hard piece you collect on the shore is hundreds of dead coral polyp exoskeletons stuck together. (As you can imagine, it takes a VERY long time for corals to grow, so please never, ever break off pieces of coral to bring home. They do not keep their pretty colors in death, unlike what is suggested in ACNH).

Conch

From here

True Conchs are Gastropod Mollusks of Family Strombidae. They are often medium to large-sized snails that are mostly herbivores, crawling about in shallow bays and seagrass beds. They have long eye stalks with very distinct eyes - I made sure to find a photo that really showed them off! Conch is a term that’s widely used for lots of similar-looking sea snail shells and meals, but just know true conchs and whelks are completely different groups of animals, no matter what your local fisherman says.

Cowrie

Ah, yet another little snail boi. Cowries are sea snails of the Family Cypraeidae. Their shells are super smooth and shiny, and so that means humans like them a lot. Their shells were used as currency and of course as jewelry. But, they are another snail, living on rocky shores eating algae and detritus, as snails do.

And last, but not least...

Venus Comb

By Samuel Chow from Boston, USA - Fishbone Murex Shell (10 cm), CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3049526

This one is actually named to species! This is YET ANOTHER SNAIL, this time in Family Muricidae, the rock snails. They are predators, much like the whelks. The venus comb (Murex pecten) is a very unique species from this group featuring a long, slender shell with over a hundred thin spines that make it look like...well, like a comb! It is fairly common, although perfect specimens are super rare as the spines are fragile. Still, they protect the snail from predation as it scours the soft mud looking for other mollusks to chow down on.

And there you have it! Fascinating stuff, no?

[gnbrules]

Suptober20 – Day 31: Carry on

Vacation at the End of the World (or the beginning)

(Approx. 1100 words – Post-series, family, fluff, Destiel & Saileen)

Something about the west coast sun just hits different, thought Dean, as he relaxed in his camp chair, basking in the warm glow of the crisp sunlight. Though the boys had travelled cross-country several times over on all their hunts, stops like these were rare and far between. The Midwest was their bread-and-butter, with only occasional dips into other types of scenery. Despite the long miles on Baby’s odometer, they had frequently still been landlocked during cases. A proper vacation had also seemed – back then – unthinkable. No longer. A beach, thought Dean happily, we finally made it to a goddamn beach. It was a good one, too. They’d done their research beforehand, and as promised, very few other beachgoers had made the short trek down to this little-known shore.

It felt like their own.

Down the beach a ways, Sam and Eileen were playing in the surf. Sunlight glanced off their long hair, and their smiles were pure and lovesick. They made a pretty sight, just another couple on just another day.

In the other direction, Cas and Jack were on a different mission. Ever since they’d started researching beaches, Jack could not and would not stop fussing about the tide pools.

“It says here,” Jack had said, pointing at his computer, “that if we go at low-tide, we should be able to see starfish!” Then he had looked at Cas, with that earnest and pleading look, and Cas had turned that same look on Dean, so of course the retired hunter had been helpless to resist.

And so they came at low-tide, just for the kid.

Now Jack had dragged Cas along to the rocky side of the beach, and the two could be seen bending down and delightedly pointing at whatever creatures they were finding in the shallow pools surrounding them.

Dean had not yet entered the ocean, nor had he got wrangled into the tide pool expedition. No, he was content to watch the waves come and go and feel the cool ocean breeze on his skin. Occasionally he would hear a snatch of carefree laughter, and it had taken a few times to recognize it as that of his little brother.

It warmed him to the core, that laugh.

After a little while, Cas and Jack returned to his part of the beach.

“Dean,” said a beaming Jack, “I touched a sea anemone!”

Dean grinned at him. “Sounds awesome, Kid.”

Cas came beside Dean’s chair. “I took some pictures, if you’d like to see,” said Cas, and he handed Dean his phone.

Dean scrolled through the images. Cas had managed some great shots: vivid orange starfish clinging to rocks, a giant crab crawling back out to sea, and lastly, Jack gently touching the aforementioned anemone, which was a striking purple hue. Even more striking was Jack’s face, full of childlike wonder and glee.

Dean’s eyes crinkled up as he smiled at the image. He handed the phone back to Cas. “We should get a print of that last one,” said Dean.

“Agreed,” said Cas. He placed a hand on Dean’s shoulder, and automatically Dean reached up with his own hand to link their fingers together. He looked up at Cas’s face to see the soft affection shining there.

“Maybe we should get a beach house,” mused Dean, and he was only half joking. “Make this a regular thing.”

Cas smiled. “Everyone does seem to be enjoying themselves,” he said. “Could be nice.”

Sam and Eileen were wandering back their way. They had their towels wrapped around them, and Sam was holding something out in his palm.

“Look what we found,” said Eileen. They all gathered around, and even Dean stood up from his chair to have a better look.

It was a small, light brown seashell. Sam held it between his thumb and forefinger. “Can you believe this is still in one piece?”

Sam was right. The shell was perfectly intact, and yet it was so thin that it was translucent in the sunlight. It was some kind of small miracle, probably, that could keep such a fragile thing together.

“That’s cool,” said Jack. “Should we take it back with us?”

Sam looked at Jack, then at Dean. “Nah,” he said finally. “Seems to be doing pretty good. It’s made it this long, it deserves its home here .”

“You’re right,” replied Jack. “We should find a safe place to leave it, though.”

Sam and Eileen agreed, and the three went further up the beach, near the cliffside where the shell was unlikely to be stepped on. While they were doing that, Dean and Cas looked out at the sea together.

“You’ve been kind of quiet today. Everything alright, Dean?” asked Cas.

Dean smiled at him, and once again linked his fingers with Cas’s. “Yeah. I’m just...happy, I guess. Takes some getting used to, to be honest.”

Cas looked at him tenderly. “I suppose so,” he said, brushing his thumb lightly against the back of Dean’s hand. “Can’t say you haven’t earned it though, after everything.”

“We’ve earned it,” Dean corrected.

“Yes, you’re right. We all have.”

They stood for another minute or so, and then Dean let go of Cas’s hand and started to shrug out of his t-shirt.

“Going for a swim?”

Dean nodded just as Sam, Jack, and Eileen returned to them.

“Hey, Jack, you wanna learn how to body surf?” asked Dean.

“Yeah, sure!”

Cas watched as the two eased into the water, both shivering slightly as the initial cold hit them. Dean began to show Jack how to position his body and how to time the break of the waves.

Sam and Eileen looked at Cas.

“You good, Cas?” asked Sam.

Cas thought about what Dean had said, about needing to get used to being happy. He could definitely understand it. It was hard to believe they were here, really and truly.

But he smiled at Sam just the same.

“Yes, Sam. I’m very good. How about you two?”

Eileen and Sam looked at each other, then grinned simultaneously. They turned, still beaming, back to Cas.

“We’re great,” they said, and Eileen signed it out as well.

The two set down their towels and headed back out to the water, joining Jack and Dean in their body surfing adventures. Cas took a moment to appreciate the sight of his family having fun together, on a bright sunny day that could be any other, now that they had the freedom to choose their lives at will.

Well, nothing left to do but join them, thought Cas.

So Cas stripped down to his swim trunks and then headed out towards Dean and the others.

[crusherthedoctor]

The beach trope: another one that often comes early in Sonic's quests, and this one's no different, though expectations are very mildly subverted by making it the third zone instead of the very first. (Careful Crusher, you had the audience on the edge of their seats there.)

More importantly though, it's possibly one of the most famous and celebrated level tropes in the series. Emerald Coast is undeniably iconic, Seaside Hill is just as iconic while also merging with the Green Hill setup, and Wave Ocean... is a poor man's Emerald Coast, but it's probably better than most levels in '06 by comparison, so it too is iconic, from a certain point of view. We can't forget Jungle Joyride either, even if that's mostly because we got to see the frame rate die before our very eyes.

So how do you make your interpretation stand out? How do you prevent having a Wave Ocean 2: Wave Oceaner on your hands? Well, it's actually very simple...

Creating Zone 3: Coastline Resort

3-1: Shining Shore

Remember when I said that sometimes all it takes to make an environment feel different is the time of day, or a change in weather? This is one of the first major examples of putting that philosophy into action, as compared to previous beach levels, which were usually content with taking place in the bright sunny daytime, this one takes place under a pleasant purple sunset.

This of course contrasting heavily with not only the blue sea, but also the sands, which although given a mild touch of purple courtesy of the sunset, cannot fully hide their natural shade of white.

And of course, waterfalls.

We can’t forget the waterfalls.

Despite being a true blue beach level first and foremost, there are also a few hints of plaza, further setting it apart from the Emerald Coasts and Not-Emerald Coasts of old times past. This aesthetic in particular is based heavily on the seaside town of Whitby.

No doubt Sonic would admire this place, at least when he's not forced to go deep underwater. Maybe when the adventure is over, he can come back here and have a relaxing moment with... someone. Dunno who though. I doubt Eggman would be interested, and not just because he's actually in-character. Oh well, plenty more horses in the sea.

Speaking of, what about the underwater sections? Shining Shore does have them after all, in full 3D, as opposed to making them bottomless pits in disguise. Unsurprisingly, everything's a lot more blue than purple down there, gorgeously so, but the coral reef provides its own variety of colour.

The local fishies don't seem to mind you being in their line of sight... nor do the Badniks, but probably for a different reason.

Since we're three zones in, you might have noticed by now that each zone, regardless of their overall colour scheme, has one element in at least one act that goes all rainbow with the colours than everything else. You had the flower patches in Gleaming Meadows, you had the wood barriers in Tricky Tropics with their rusting paint jobs, and now we have the coral reef in Coastline Resort... any reason for this?

Alas, the answer is a mundane one: it's just a little way of tying all the zones in Viridonia together. As this quest revolves around the mystery of the elusive Ethereal Zone, this seemingly inconsequential aspect is a way of ensuring that it will always remain at the back of your mind. It may be relatively more subtle and easy to miss than, say, a giant moon glaring down angrily at you no matter where you go on the map as it literally comes closer and closer to killing everyone, but the intention is effectively the same: the central meat of the setting and story is always present in some form, however indirect, even if the characters aren't currently discussing it.

Also, shout out to the lighthouse that helped our heroes by inadvertently blinding the pursuing mechanized orca.

You really put a dent in Heavy Gunner's strategy.

First Section (calm): Lagoony Tunes (Crash Bandicoot 2: N-Tranced) Peach Field (Mario Hoops 3-on-3)

Second Section (adrenaline): Lost Palace (Team Sonic Racing) Hang Eight (Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back)

3-2: Crazy Rapids

Being a whimsical water park, made even more whimsical to fit the video game format, this one explains itself in a lot of areas. But let's go over the finer details anyway, shall we?

As mentioned in the fic, the park has been made to fit in seamlessly with the ruins present in the area, thus creating a Good Future-esque wonderland of nature and technology in harmony. For an idea of how the ruins aesthetic would work, imagine something akin to the Sunset Beach Resort in Jamaica, particularly the long bridge and archways you can see in both of these shots:

Kind of has an Aquatic Ruin vibe, doesn’t it?

Even then, that only applies to half of the architecture, as the other half breaks up the yellow with some white, reminiscent of a certain OTHER watery location in Sonic's past...

We also have the giant fountains sprinkled around the place. There are two types of fountains to be exact, both of which may seem familiar to the attentive eye...

The difference? They're larger. MUCH larger. As in, you can actually platform your way on and around them.

As for what’s inside? It's exactly how you'd imagine it to be, albeit exaggerated even further to befit a Sonic level.

And in-tune with the beachside mood, the Chao Garden found nearby would take a page from the one in Station Square...

...with a little extra flavor of this...

...complete with miniature water slides and the like for the adorable inhabitants... the inhabitants that Eggman currently has an unexplained interest in. How do the Chao factor into his latest plan?

Heh heh, only I and those I've discussed it with in PMs know that for now.

First Section (outside): Windy and Ripply (Sonic Adventure) Ocean Palace (Sonic Heroes)

Second Section (inside): Data Select (Tee Lopes) Wii Shop Channel - Mii Channel (Super Smash Bros. Wii U)

3-3: Aquarium Gallery

Disappointed that Crazy Rapids lacked that smooth red-on-blue contrast that Aquarium Park from Sonic Colours had? Well we can’t all be in the same league as Eggman sadly, but fear not, for the similarly named Aquarium Gallery gets right in on the action, combining red walls and an overall upper class aesthetic...

...with the expected quantities of shimmering blue that comes with the aquarium setting. And with glass tanks of great size, comes great fishies to go along with them.

The black and white checkered floor would also be a must. It's a Sonic game, we gotta have a checkered pattern somewhere. It just works. /ToddCrusher

Don't worry about the living conditions for the fish here, by the way. Eggman mechanizing them aside, the people who work at the park - and those who visit it - make sure to treat all the marine life with the utmost respect and kindness. Just a shame that they're apparently not so willing to lend that same understanding to Trudy... but it does provide an early hint that despite the few genuine bad apples who are outright antagonistic towards Trudy, most of the folks ignorant to her condition are exactly that at worst: ignorant. Meaning, despite first impressions, most of them are not bad people at heart, and with a little help and persistence, it's not entirely impossible that they can eventually learn to understand and sympathise with Trudy's situation.

In other words, they have more dimension than the background characters in Sonic Boom, where they're all mostly a bunch of one-note arseholes with little redeeming qualities and don’t deserve to be saved by Sonic in the slightest.

Anyhow, eventually, after a trip through one of those sweet underwater tunnels...

...we find ourselves in the cavern area, where red is exchanged for turquoise, and there are reflected ripples galore. Since the Marble Caves in Chile already look halfway to being a Sonic level due to its unique formations, that's the best comparison I can make here.

Too blue, you might say? Well, the sunset from earlier would be poking through the holes in the wall, adding some warm to the cool once more... the giant seashells everywhere help spice it up too.

Like these, but bigger than Ken Penders’ ego.

If that’s even possible...

First Section (aquarium): Rooftop Run - Night (Sonic Unleashed) Coconut Mall (Mario Kart Wii)

Second Section (caves): Sea Shell Shenanigans (Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of Cortex) Dire, Dire Docks (Super Mario 64)

3-4: Hydro Plant

The outside structure for this place is shaped like a giant wall, which predictably brings the Hoover Dam to mind:

And that applies inside as well, at least initially. The similarities indoors come mostly from the generators, as well as the sheer size of the place.

Since it's considerably rustier however, we have darker lighting in place, with the sunset outside preventing it from being too dark inside. There’s also a copious amount of daring graffiti caused by hoodlums... or maybe Eggman, since he'd probably be the type to do that to any property that isn't his. Some of this graffiti would look very impressive...

While others would... uh...

Look, they tried, okay?

With all this graffiti, that means there’s opportunity for a generous helping of cheeky references to previous installments if you’re able to find them... and if you can understand them. To this day, the typo in “make belif reborn” has not been corrected. Absolutely disgusting.

But as the fic dictates, the further you go on, the tidier and more high tech it becomes. Simply put, this section would remind one of Aquatic Base from '06, mainly because I've always liked the idea despite its characteristically terrible level design, so why not salvage the concept and give it a second chance?

With some added flavor to make it less monotone, mind you. Like actual water sections, some green lights to break up all the blue, giant crab robot threatening to kill you... the works.

Sonic may be glad that this zone is behind him, but little does he know, it's not the only zone with intense water action around these parts. Luckily for him, that won't be for a while, so he can breathe a sigh of relief for now. Still, we know Eggman has other ways of keeping the gang on their toes...

First Section (rusty): Wily Stage 2 (Mega Man 7) Pokey Pipes (Donkey Kong Country 3)

Second Section (high tech): Ocean Base Act 1 (Sonic Advance 3) H2 Oh No (Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of Cortex)

[ohshcscenerios]

The Case for Takashi x Haruhi P.2

Welcome to Part Two of The Case for MorixHaru Series! Today we will be exploring Volume 3. If you want to read Part One I will include the link here. This is a multi-part series so expect more posts after this one!

Please Note: 

This post will include manga spoilers. 

This is all in the name of fun. I am by no means insulting or “disproving” other pairings. I am just a person who wants to spread more MorixHaru love into the world.

Feel free to agree or disagree, I’d love to know your thoughts. 

Shall we begin?

Willing Participant 

In Volume 3, Episode 8 the Host Club goes to the beach. This episode is famous for the interaction between Haruhi and Kyoya (for obvious reasons) but staying true to our case we will exclude that from this post. Today we are focusing on Takashi and Haruhi. 

Surprisingly, the live action follows the manga more closely than the anime in this episode. Meaning, the anime excludes a few moments between Takashi and Haruhi. 

When Haruhi is whisked away to the beach she doesn’t show much interest in participating in the fun. She doesn’t join the twins in their game of volleyball or even swims with her guests. Although the beach was technically her idea she doesn’t seem to be enjoying herself. 

That is, until Takashi and Mitsukuni invite her to collect seashells. 

Haruhi’s demeanor changes when Takashi hands her a bucket and Mitsukuni points out the beach filled with yummy seashells and she happily claims a spot on the beach to begin collecting. Just like that, she went from sulking on a rock to playing in the sand.

I find this interesting because Haruhi doesn’t usually accept the host’s invitations to join their fun. Even after this episode the other hosts must resort to kidnapping if they want Haruhi to participate in their fun. However, when Takashi and Mitsukuni invite her to collect seashells she doesn’t put up a fight. She accepts the bucket with a “thank you”. 

Unnoticed Effort  

When the Host Club discovers they can impress Haruhi with different seashells they begin showing her their finds like blue mussels and scallops. What does Takashi try to give her? 

An octopus.

I was surprised by this because normally you wouldn’t find octopus on the beach unless they were either washed up by the tide (remember, it was low tide) or a specific species known as kaurna - an octopus that buries itself in sand. This means Takashi probably went into the water and found an octopus to present as a gift to Haruhi.

Our boy was trying really hard to impress Haruhi!

When the Host Club sets off the find her weakness our silent shy host puts in unnoticed effort to win. Most of Takashi’s involvement is directly correlated with Mitsukuni’s participation but look closer. Takashi puts in extra effort beside helping his cousin.

A little side note; when the twins suggest their “find Haruhi’s weakness” game and Kyoya offers her photos as a prize, notice how Mitsukuni says “we want to join” rather than “I want to join”. Takashi is too shy to admit he wants the photos too.

When Mitsukuni tries to scare Haruhi with tall heights, Takashi tests it further by lifting her even higher. 

Takashi wants to win those pictures.

Note how he picks her up after she says, “if we fell we might die”. I feel he wanted to hit two birds with one stone; testing her potential fear of heights while keeping her safe from falling.

And when Mitsukuni’s idea fails Takashi tests another theory; the fear of sharp things. Have we known Takashi to really involve himself unless Mitsukuni persists? I see Takashi really trying to win those photos of Haruhi. 

Takashi Loves Her

Another difference between the anime and the manga is how Haruh is handled after falling off the cliff. 

It’s worth noting in the manga Haruhi isn’t pushed off the cliff, as seen in the anime, but instead punched in the face and falls off the cliff. That’s why she’s bleeding from the cheek and everyone’s shocked by her appearance. 

I find this interesting because when Tamaki emerges with Haruhi he begins giving orders to the other hosts on how to handle the situation. He tells Kyoya, Kaoru, and Hikaru to dismiss the guests. He tells Mitsukuni to call for a doctor. The only person he doesn’t give orders to is Takashi. 

The anime shows Tamaki setting her down on the beach but in the manga he passes her to... Takashi.

This leads me to believe Takashi voluntarily took Haruhi from Tamaki. But why would he? Because he is worried about her! Takashi wanted to hold her, probably to reassure himself that she was ok. And this may be a stretch but he probably wanted to hold her because he knows she’s safest with him (referring to the jungle scene). I imagine Takashi opening his arms in front of Tamaki, signaling to hand Haruhi over. 

Tamaki chastises her for facing the bullies alone and stubborn Haruhi refuses to apologize for her actions. The manga focuses the fight between Tamaki and Haruhi but look at who also is affected. Takashi looks tired and upset, as if the scare on the cliff drained him emotionally.

Also, I notice that Haruhi seems to lean into Takashi after Tamaki’s outburst. As if she’s subconsciously leaning into him for support.

Now... this may be a really long stretch... but what is rolling down Takashi’s cheek? Is it sweat or is it a tear? I’ll let you decide.

Now, when the Host Club retire to Nekozawa’s mansion, there is a big difference between the anime and the manga that needs to be said. In the manga, Takashi does not retrieve Haruhi for dinner. Instead, she joins them after switching on the circuit breaker in the basement. I know a lot people like to imagine what happened between them in the hallway but the manga truth is... that never happened. However, the dinner scene is still an important moment for Haruhi and Takashi, both respectively and collectively.  

When the hosts are eating together the conversation plays out normally; Tamaki and Haruhi continue to argue until Tamaki storms off to bed, taking Kyoya with him. Mitsukuni and the twins reveal they were upset because they worried about her. 

This is where I get upset with the anime. Absolutely no where in the anime do they show Takashi showing an ounce of emotion during the dinner scene. In the anime he is just eating his crab, minding his own business, and not involved in their conversation whatsoever. 

However, in the manga, Takashi behaves very differently. In the manga he isn’t mindlessly eating crab. He’s involved in the conversation. He’s actively listening. He’s silently telling Haruhi he was also worried with his attentive expression. 

I’m genuinely upset about how the anime snubbed Takashi in this scene. He is just as important as the other hosts and yet his emotions were nearly scrubbed clean in the anime scene. (This is why it’s important to also read the manga).

When she finally apologizes he doesn’t stand behind her eating crab as in the anime. He accepts her apology by patting her head. 

I have a theory; when Takashi pats Haruhi’s head he is silently expressing his affection to her. Think about it, Haruhi is the only one to receive head pats from Takashi (I’m sure Mitsukuni has too but not in the same context). Up to this point in the manga we do not see him patting the other hosts’ heads. I surmise Takashi’s head pats is how he’s trying to flirt with Haruhi. 

Moving on...

When Haruhi begins to feel sick she doesn’t run off into the nearest room as she did in the anime. Instead, someone voluntarily picks her up and rushes her to the nearest restroom. Guess who that person is.

Takashi. 

Notice how he wasn’t ordered by Mitsukuni to help her. In fact, it appears the other hosts were surprised by Takashi’s haste action by how the twins cheered him on. 

At this point, Takashi doesn’t need permission to help Haruhi. He doesn’t need his cousin - or anyone else for that matter - to tell him when to step in. Why? Because I believe he loves her. At this point in the manga I think it’s safe to say Takashi loves Haruhi. 

Persuasion of Love

 Let’s move onto Episode 8; when the Host Club collides with the Zuka Club. Here we see the Host Club feeling threatened in losing Haruhi and they band together to keep her at Ouran Academy. For this episode we are going to zoom our microscope onto Takashi and his reactions/facial expressions. 

We’ve already established he has become protective over her but in this episode we now see another side of Takashi. We see he has also become possessive over her. 

Let’s study his expression when Benio threatens to disband the Host Club. He looks angry and even a little confused. He’s obviously upset alongside everyone else.

Now, let’s compare his previous expression to this expression when Benio threatens to steal away Haruhi. His expression grows a pinch darker. His eyes are wider, his mouth slightly gaped, and a pointed stare at Benio. She is no longer targeting the club as a whole. She’s targeting Haruhi. His Haruhi.

His expressions went from “As If” to “Over My Dead Body”. 

Now, I have heard people say this episode is where they believe Haruhi’s and Takashi’s relationship turns platonic; because when the Host Club dresses in drag Takashi chooses to remain strictly male. The anime makes a side note “Brother Only” when introducing the hosts in their costumes; making it seem Takashi has been friend-zoned or their relationship turned into one between siblings. 

I disagree. In fact, I think his decision to dress as a male further proves his feelings for Haruhi. 

I surmise Takashi didn’t want Haruhi to see him as anything other than a man. He didn’t want to compromise his masculinity in front of Haruhi. Takashi wants Haruhi to see him as a man; a man who could love her and take care of her. 

Now, Takashi doesn’t have a problem being flexible with his masculinity. We see him taking on a more submissive role with Mitsukuni all the time; allowing Mitsukuni to lead in dance, wearing the matching costume to Mitsukuni’s costume, and serving the tea and cakes during hosting hours for Mitsukuni and their guests. 

So why wouldn’t he dress as a “sister” alongside Mitsukuni? Why would he be a “brother only” Takashi?

I think whether he realizes it or not, Takashi’s feelings are growing more serious for Haruhi. His feelings are transitioning from “crush” to “wanting a relationship/courtship”. 

He wants Haruhi to see him in a more serious light because he’s becoming serious about her. 

Is this a stretch? Yes. This whole post is a stretch. This whole series is a stretch. But Takashi deserves Haruhi so we will continue! 

Let’s move onto Episode 12, when the Host Club visits Haruhi at her home. 

This episode is also famous for MorixHaru because of the strawberry exchange - and we’ll get to that - but first I want to point something out. 

We’ve been heavily delving into Takashi’s feelings during this post but here we have a glimpse of Haruhi’s feelings as well. 

When Haruhi serves the tea she gives Takashi the biggest mug. This size of mug is also evident in the anime which coincidentally is when I first noticed it. I thought it was interesting Haruhi gave Takashi the biggest cup. If I had to guess why, I would say it’s because she’s also developing feelings for him. But she’s too oblivious when it comes to herself so she probably doesn’t think twice about it. 

But I’m sure Takashi noticed. In fact, I would go as far as saying receiving the biggest mug is what inspired him to share his strawberries with her. Because now he is picking up on her unintentional hints, therefore getting more comfortable with her.

(I apologize for the poor photo quality. I tried multiple times for a decent photo and this was the best one >.<) 

I find it interesting that after Haruhi chooses a strawberry cake Takashi still asks her if she likes strawberries. Our boy is a true gentleman at heart. Look at him trying to make sure she’s going to enjoy her cake.  

We cannot conclude this post without mentioning how much Haruhi blushes when she thanks him for the strawberries. Look at that blush! It’s completely taken over her cheeks! I also love how Takashi smiles at her happiness. He just loves that he made her happy. If we look closer in the next frame we can also see that he happily watches her enjoy her cake. 

He’s so proud of himself for making her happy and simply watches her eat her cake. It’s so adorable and really shows how much he has fallen for their host maiden. 

Alright, I need to end this ridiculously long post, but stay tuned for further posts in the series! We are far from done! (I don’t know if that’s a good thing or a bad thing, considering how much time and effort I put into these posts) 

Watch out for Part Three in The Case for Takashi and Haruhi! 

[spaceorphan18]

The Little Mermaid

YOU GUYS WE’VE REACHED THE LITTLE MERMAID AND SO BEGINS THE NOSTALGIA FOR CHILDHOOD!

Two things.  1. I was six when this came out - so perfect age for it, and it was my favorite movie for a long, long time.  I used to dress in a beautiful green dress (my mother’s night gown) and sing Part of Your World into a hair brush - as one does.  It’s on video tape.  2. We had a plastic Flounder bath toy that squirted water - which apparently we had until the early 2000s cause my brothers remember using it for bath time.  

Okay then.  So, this movie still holds up as super entertaining even thirty years - enough so that you don’t really think about how super problematic it is when you break it down.  I mean -- essentially, a semi-sheltered 16yo girl gives up what makes her /her/ for a guy she barely knows, signing a way her life to a crazy sea witch, doesn’t really face repercussions for any of the sketchy shit she gets into, and ends up married before she’s twenty.  Not to mention - how does mermaid anatomy even work, let’s not think about it too hard.  

But who cares - this movie is really delightful, and I mean, as long as you have a nice long chat about how you shouldn’t give up your uniqueness for a man, it’s fine.  

What makes it so enjoyable? Well - now that I’ve watched everything up to this point... it kind of just explodes with entertainment in a way that the other films lacked -- especially ones that had been leading up to it.  I mean, yeah Great Mouse Detective and Oliver and Company did really set the stage, but we’re now in the land of Alan Menken, who kind of just upped the ante so hard.  

Y’all know this story, so I don’t need to go through that.  But the script is solid, fun, emotional, and filled with moments of actual tension.  There’s still some of that trademark padding - but even that is entertaining.  The script works! The voice acting is absolutely solid, too, and not once was I ever thrown out of the story by a voice that doesn’t seem to fit.  

But more so the songs work.  Every one of them is catchy and memorable.  Everyone of them I knew by heart as a kid, and I’m sure others did, too.  It’s kind of like the candy glue that holds the whole thing together and gives the film its magic.  The music really is what sells this probably questionable plot, lol.  

It’s also a rather beautiful film, too.  I don’t know if the animation is the best it’s ever been here -- there are still a few moments of awkwardness here and there, but that’s really only to be noticed when looking.  They kind of went all in on making this one of the most aesthetically pleasing films to date.  

Other thoughts: 

You know you’re getting old when you start to side with the adults. 

I have a deeper appreciation for Ursula now, she laid out all of her plans clearly and me, the adult, can just go - oh you stupid 16yo.  

Ursula was fashioned after the drag queen Divine, btw.  

Also - is it just me, or does her seashell bedroom(?) look like a vagina? Just me? 

Ariel should have been on an episode of hoarders.  Just sayin’. 

I really love Sebastian the Crab.  Just needed to throw that out there. 

It’s been a really long time since I’ve seen this - Prince Eric’s voice surprised me cause for some reason, I didn’t remember him sounding like he does. 

My favorite part of the movie has nothing to do with the movie at all -- it’s the part where the chef almost cooks Sebastian while singing Les Poissons.  

Btw, there’s some really clever word play in all of the musical numbers - i’m incredibly impressed by it, and really didn’t notice as a kid, but that’s part of the reason they’re so catchy. 

Can we take a second and think about how Prince Eric’s main export is probably fish? 

I’m kind of amused by how much left is up for interpretation - why was Ursula banished? What’s up with Eric’s kingdom? What happened to Ariel’s mom? etc etc  -- they let the audience decide. 

How does merpeople anatomy work? I’ve always been bothered by how they might use the bathroom.  

Final Thoughts: The Disney Renaissance is on, yo! 

[lovehugsandcandy]

Perfect Day  (Rafael x MC, OH)

A/N: This was a request from @cpt-indigo, who wanted “Rafael x MC, road trip.” I really hope you like this. Thank you so much for SUCH a fun request; I had a lot of fun writing this for you and I really hope you enjoy. I am so so so sorry it took so long. Eternally grateful to @akrenich for editing, fixing my comma addiction, and keeping me honest as I step outside my comfort zone.

Pairing: Rafael x MC, OH

Length: 2,735 words

Rating: PG-13 (Swearing? But like, minor swears?)

Summary: Casey and Rafael do not sell seashells by the sea shore. They do a lot of other things though.

Tags: I took everyone off tags because I think ya’ll want a Colt story and this is not a Colt story and I have no idea what I’m doing and I don’t want to spam anyone.

There was another knock at the door, the second one in less than three minutes, and Casey swore under her breath, digging under the couch cushion.

“I’ll get it!” Sienna bounced by and Casey jumped on top of the couch to grab her. They were the only two awake in the house and Casey knew she should let her roommate open the door; she didn’t want to wake anyone else up. But she just… she wanted to answer the door, to be the one to greet him. She just needed her goddamned keys.

She glared, balancing on her perch on top of the couch, finally letting go of Sienna’s arm. “Do not get that door. Do not touch that door. Give me a minute.”

Sienna stared at her, starting to edge away, slowly walking backwards, as if Casey was a wild animal about to pounce.

“Okaaay...”

Casey dove off the couch and continued her search. "I just need a minute." 

“Does this mean you don’t want the cookies?”

She looked up from behind a cushion. “You made cookies?”

Sienna laughed, sauntering to the kitchen. “Right now, I think Rafael deserves them more than you.”

Casey groaned and reached; finally, she felt metal at the tips of her fingers, just a little further— got it. “Thank God!” Clutching the keys, she ran to the door and pulled it open. “Hi.”

“Hi.” Rafael smiled at her,  impossibly handsome as always. 

“Come in.” Casey smoothed down her hair. With the lost key fiasco, she forgot that she was nervous but now, at the sight of him, the familiar butterflies were back. They always seemed to reappear when he was around; she couldn’t tell if they were drawn in by his courage, his honesty, his love for his family, or his devotion to the community. Or maybe it was the wave in his hair, the quirk of his lips when he smiled, the jacket that hid the t-shirt that hid the muscles. Crap. Casey really liked him.

“Are you sure you’re ready to go? I can give you more time.” The quirk of the lips was back, a half-smile that she just wanted to kiss.

She shook her head. “I just need to get my bag.”

“And the cookies!” Sienna reappeared, chocolate chip cookies in hand, enclosed in tissue paper, red ribbon giving them a festive touch. She handed them over with a grin. “Hi, Rafael.”

“Oh wow, are those for us? Thank you!”

“You need road trip food!”

Casey grabbed her backpack, pulling Sienna in for a hug. “Thank you, you are the best and I love you.” Dropping her voice, she whispered, “I’m sorry if I was mean about the door.”

Sienna laughed. “No sweat. Now, shoo, go have fun.”

With one last wave, Casey grabbed Rafael’s hand and pulled him out to the street, squinting into the sunshine. He opened the car door for her and she threw her bag in. “Thank you, good sir.”

He smiled at her, eyes soft, leaning into a bow before climbing into the driver’s seat himself.

“Do we have everything?” His hair caught the morning light, a soft glow that brightened his features. Casey already thought he was an angel but now he looked it, too, halo of light around his head as he sat in the driver’s seat. 

He caught her staring and she blushed, clearing her throat. “I think so...Playlist?”

“Double check. I have two.” He held up his phone.

“Phone charger?”

He pointed to the USB cord between them.  “Check.” 

“Twizzlers?”

“Ch- wait what? That seems like an unhealthy choice for a doctor...”

She swatted his arm. “I can’t go on a road trip without Twizzlers! Also, these, obviously.” She opened the cookies, handing one over.

He took a bite, one arm on the steering wheel. “Ready to go?”

Casey pulled open the GPS on her phone. “Let’s go, Superman,” She had never been to Cape Cod, hadn’t been to many places in Massachusetts, but Rafael had been nothing but generous with his time, showing her around Boston, taking her in a helicopter, even introducing her to his grandmother. She was excited to see another landmark in the area and even more excited to be doing it with Rafael by her side.

“Oh my God, it says two hours!” Apparently, they were not the only ones headed down the Cape on a beautiful day. “You know, this would have been 15 minutes in the helicopter.” 

“The helicopter is also only used for medical emergencies.”

She batted her eyes at him. “But what if the emergency is that I really want to go to the beach or I’ll die?”

He shot her a wry grin before lacing their fingers together and kissing the back of her hand. “Well, maybe we can find you a paramedic to save the day.”

“Make it a handsome paramedic and you’re on.” She gave his hand a squeeze, wondering if this was what total contentment felt like.

~~~~~

The drive took a long time but for Casey, it seemed to go by in a flash. She and Rafael talked and laughed and ate junk food and bickered over music and she stole kisses when they were completely stopped. She didn’t think she would mind if they never got out of the car.

Finally, the GPS directed them into the parking lot, rows of cars between them and the most gorgeous beach she had ever seen in her life. The sand stretched to the left as far as she could see; on the right, above the rocks and crashing surf, a clam shack stood, a few seagulls squawking around, looking for morsels.

“Oh, I love it!”

He ducked his head. “My family used to come down here sometime in the summers. We would drive down and spend the day in the sand.”

She paused, watching him. “Thank you for sharing it with me.” She liked the idea of him as a child, building sandcastles in the sand. She liked learning even more about him, every small piece of his past. She grabbed his hand, leading him down to the beach, past sunbathers and laughing children to snag a prime piece of real estate.

“Does this look good?”

“This looks great,” Rafael spread out a huge sheet, weighting down the corners with bags and shoes.

Casey wiggled her toes in the sand. “You came prepared!”

“Paramedics are always prepared!” He looked affronted.

“I thought that was the Boy Scouts.”

“Maybe Boy Scouts are just juvenile paramedics.” He grabbed a tube from his bag. “Sunscreen?”

“If you’re offering.” She relaxed under his touch, relishing his strong hands as they massaged her neck, arms, back. “Have I mentioned how amazing you are at that?”

A shy smile. “Maybe a couple times.”

“A couple million times, now get over here, you.” She grabbed the sunscreen from him, applying a generous blob to his nose, then his back. “I can’t have my Superman getting sun burnt.”

T-shirt off, he was every bit the hunk that the nurses talked about. She grinned to herself, gliding her hands in slow circles down the muscles of his back, feeling his sides twitch when she hit a sensitive spot. Sure, they all knew how handsome he was. But she was the only one who knew his heart, the goodness that emanated from every pore of this man. They could look all they wanted; she was the one who got to stand next to the hero.

“Did you want to go in the water?”

She raised her eyebrows at him. “Race ya?”

“Ok, su-” He trailed off as she sprinted away. “Hey! Cheater!”

Casey laughed; she could hear footsteps behind her but she didn’t dare look, didn’t dare turn around and lose momentum. She was so close. So. Close.

“Aaaahh!!” Strong hands wrapped around her waist, pulling her off the ground as she laughed and laughed and laughed. He swung her around, grinning ear-to-ear. 

“You cheated.”

She couldn’t stop laughing, burrowing her face in his shoulders as he carried her further into the ocean. Oh no. She could see where this was going. “Wait....wait...” She was laughing too hard to get the words out.

“One...two...THREE.” Rafael swung her, trying to toss her into the water, waist-deep now.”

Casey held on, tight, arms wrapped around his neck for dear life. He tried to throw her but couldn’t and they both tumbled into the surf. When Casey emerged, wiping water from her eyes, tasting salt and sand, Rafael stood over her, water dripping from his hair, droplets sliding down his face.

“Casey?”

“Yeah?”

“I won.” He grinned as she sputtered at him. She couldn’t stay mad long and wrapped him in a hug, his warmth warding off the chill from the water.

“Hey, Rafael?”

“Yeah?”

She kissed his cheek, then cupped his cheek for a chaste kiss, salt and happiness on his lips. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“For coming up with this idea. For showing me this place.” She shrugged. “For being you.”

He held her close, one kiss fading into the next as the water lapped around them.

~~~~~

They walked down the beach, collecting seashells and swapping stories. They went back in the water when it got too hot, body surfing and splashing each other. They hung out on the sand, sharing a pair of earbuds, using them as an excuse to lie close. When they got hungry and ran out of cookies, Casey looked down the beach. “Wanna hit the crab shack?”

“You read my mind.”

Together, they packed up their things to put into the car then walked hand-in-hand to get lunch. After five minutes of indecision (both the lobster roll and the fried clams looked amazing), Rafael wisely broke the stalemate.

“You get one, I’ll get the other, and we share?”

Casey had to stand on her tiptoes to kiss his nose. “You are a genius.”

Both of the options looked better than they’d thought and Casey’s mouth watered as they sat at one of the picnic tables. The surf crashed behind them, the sun was high in the sky. Casey had amazing food in front of her, an amazing man next to her. Was this heaven?

“Ok, let’s split it.” He grabbed half of his lobster roll, sliding it on her plate, while she did the same with the clams. “I’ll get more napkins.”

He made it three steps when disaster struck. Casey would have screamed if she had more time to react but, suddenly, there was a commotion above her, around her, flapping wings and squawking cries and then? A violent robbery.

She was covering her head, trying to protect herself from the aerial assault, but they were everywhere. Rafael ran back the three steps, waving his arms around, trying to get the seagulls to disperse. He was yelling or laughing or both at the same time; she didn’t know. All she could do was duck and laugh.

By the time he had chased them away, they had stolen all her fries, most of the clams, and half the lobster roll. She frowned as she trudged back to the line, trailing behind Rafael, gripping his hand, warm and solid in hers. “Stupid seagulls.”

He laughed, arm around her shoulder, pulling her close. “You know they can sense weakness, right? They knew you would leave the food undefended.”

Her eyes narrowed. “Weakness? I’ll show you weakness!”

He dodged her hands as she lunged, trying to tickle him into submission, fingertips gliding under clothes and over smooth skin. They were laughing so loud that the woman at the counter had to yell “NEXT!” six times before she got their attention.

~~~~~

“I am so full!”

Rafael opened his book next to her. “I told you it was good.”

She sprawled out, utterly content. “I’m totally going to go walk it off.”

“Really.”

“Uh huh. After maybe just one tiny nap.”

He laughed, running his hand through her hair, lightly pulling on the drying curls. “Sure thing, Sleeping Beauty.”

She was going to respond, she really was going to, but she was so full and the sun was so warm and the salt in the air was so relaxing that when she opened her eyes again, she was shocked to see that he wasn’t next to her anymore and the sun had moved across the sky, changing the angles of the shadows along the sand.

“Huh? Rafael?”

She looked up, shielding her eyes. He was standing up, looking intently into the ocean.

“Rafael?”

He didn’t seem to hear her, started walking away, when a sharp whistle, three blasts, made her jump. Rafael started running, sprinting to the water as Casey sat up, still groggy. There was a commotion, a yelling, a lifeguard running into the water, Rafael hot on his heels.

“Oh crap.” Casey jumped up, scanning the water, trying to see what they were looking at. She followed, but couldn’t see anything out of place. Another lifeguard, barely a teenager, sprinted by her with a huge plastic stretcher, and Casey realized she had to move.

She followed, racing to the edge of the beach, hand shielding her eyes. She couldn’t see Rafael anymore, almost started yelling for him, when there was a splash, more splashes, and a yell and there he was, he was swimming, then carrying someone, a woman, unconscious, out of the water. Crap.

“Quick.” She grabbed the stretcher, putting in down on the sand for a stable surface. “Rafael, here!” She screamed and waved to him, relieved when he headed her way, moving carefully, cradling the woman’s body, the other lifeguard trailing behind her.

It was like being back at work, the efficiency with which they moved. He lowered the woman onto the stretcher as Casey knelt, two fingers to her neck, ear to her mouth. “No respiration, no pulse.”

Rafael dropped to the ground, ready to step in, but Casey waved him off. “No, you just saved her. I need fresh arms. You.” She pointed to the lifeguard, who cautiously came closer.

“Me?”

“Yes, you. Get over here. You’re on chest compressions. Rafael, get an ambulance here.”

Rafael and the other lifeguard took off, back towards the beach, as Casey turned towards the lifeguard. She originally thought he was in high school but, up close, she wondered if that was an overestimate. How old could you be before you could work? Jesus.

“Do you know CPR?”

“Uhhh...... I mean, I took a class.”

Casey took a deep breath. “I give her two breaths, you do 30 compressions. Right here. Count out loud.”

The lifeguard was turning green. Crap. 

“Hey. We can do this, ok? You ready?” She rubbed his shoulder, trying to transmit some of her calm.

Finally, the lifeguard met her eye. “Ok. We can do this.”

“Good.” Casey tipped her head back, carefully, and delivered two slow, steady breaths, watching the compressions. “One and two and three and-”

All she could do was breath and count and hope that, this time, it would be enough.

~~~~~

She heard the siren wail, the ambulance weaving through the parked cars to get to the street. Rafael wrapped his arms around her waist. “You ok?”

“Yeah...” She let her head drop on his shoulder. “I hope she’s ok.”

He nodded, eyes distantly gazing over her. “They know what they are doing. I think we got her in time.”

“I wish I could have done more,” she frowned.

“Well, you always are taking care of everyone else, your friends, your patients.” He kissed her forehead. “Maybe you should let someone else take care of things for a while.”

She smiled up at him and watched the reflection in the waves, sun low over the water. They stood there, in silence, holding tight to each other in the sea breeze.

“You ready to go?”

“Yeah, I think so.” 

~~~~~

They found their blanket and packed up their things, heading back to the car in comfortable silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Opening the door, she took one last look at the beach, the waves, the sun sinking into the horizon, and got in the car.

“Hey, Rafael?”

“Yeah?”

“This was a perfect day.”

He looked at her. “Uh, besides the woman who almost drowned.”

“And the traffic.”

“And the seagulls.”

She looked at him, watching the setting sun reflect in his eyes.

“Hey, Rafael?”

“Yeah?”

“.......This was a perfect day.”

[alloveroliver]

Oliver x MC |Alice| “Time.”

Angst: Oliver Knight

Warning: Character Death, Blood WC: 4,376

Ikemen Revloutlin Fanfic

• ·  .  ·  ´  `  · . ·•· . · ´ ` · . ·•· . · ´ ` · . ·•· . ·  ´  `  ·  .  · • Their dates tended to be all over the place. Oliver’s workload would fluctuate drastically from day to day making their meetings utterly unpredictable. A brunch date here, or a 2 a.m. tea party there were regular occurrences for the couple, albeit strange to anyone else that held a relationship. Today, though, he finished all his morning work and invited Alice out for a walk in the midafternoon hours. The sun was shining bright and the breeze, gentle as they made their way to the ocean. A seagulls caw echoed against the blue sky while the flock studied the waves that spilled onto the shore. The seaside by the black army barracks was rocky in some places and smooth in others. This distinct structure made their beach more desirable and exciting to explore for the locals. It was a hotspot for camping or day trips from people all over the black territory during the summer months. During the day, Oliver Knight was much smaller than he appeared in the evening hours. Resembling a young boy was the epitome of an oxymoron since his age far surpassed what his tiny hands and short stature indicated. However, that didn’t stop him from spending what time he could with his girlfriend. Time was fleeting, passing without regard for anyone or anything. Before you knew it time would pass by in the blink of an eye, and there would be no returning. Oliver knew time very well. He was thoroughly acquainted with its lack of compassion and knew well of its own self-service. Time’s utter disregard for any type of consideration boiled Oliver’s blood hotter than any other concept of which wherein one could not control. Time moved from one moment to the next, leaving everything that mattered in one second only to push forward to the next second. It did this forever. It had been doing this since its conception. “Careful of the rocks,” Oliver called out to Alice who was ahead of him. The loud rush of the waves racing onto the land resounded around them while the gust of wind blew her slightly off balance. “Thanks, I didn’t actually see them sticking out of the sand like that.” Her hair gently swayed in the continuing breeze. “Hold my hand in case you trip. We know how clumsy you are.” He held out his palm to her, averting his gaze down the coastline when she looks at him curiously. No matter how long they were together, his heart still skipped a beat when they touched. He wove his fingers in with hers and walked with her side by side. He blocked her body from the sharp sediments to the left, making sure to take some of her weight while she hopped from one rock to another. “What are those monstrous boulders?” Alice pointed a ways down the seashore. “Sometimes they have caves. A lot of people sneak over there to camp out.” “That’s cool! Can we go explore them?” Alice beamed a smile in his direction. Her silhouette was glowing as her face blocked the harsh sun from his view. He’s was captivated by her for a spell but shook his head to bring sense to the forefront of his mind. Oliver furrowed his brows. “It can be dangerous. The rocks are sharp, there’s probably broken glass and trash, plus it’s a long walk back.” “Please, Oliver.” She advocated, bringing their clasped hands up and cupping his knuckles with her other palm in a pleading prayer. “I promise to be careful! You said people go camping there all the time. It doesn’t seem that dangerous.” He tsked. That was something he said, but it still didn't change the fact that it could be dangerous. Yet, he found Alice's pleading hands convincing and charming. “… Fine.” He bit out. “It’s about a 45-minute walk.” 

“We have time!” She beamed.

Oliver knew better, but she had him wrapped around her little finger whether he’d admit it or not. They soon set off for the cove, discussing future plans and catching up on his newest project. 

He was the Cradles go-to for any festival event to create something spectacular for the evening. From light shows, synchronized fireworks, and infusing ballrooms in a shower of shimmering glitter that washed over the dancers, Oliver knew how to make the town folks jaw drop every time. They left their shoes at the entrance to the beach, allowing their feet to dig into the rich, warm grains of sand that spill off their toes with every step they took. Grains in an hourglass were coarser and darker than these smooth pale granules were. After a long walk, dipping their toes in the water and finding a few seashells, they made it to the first cave. It was unconcerning, mostly filled with sand and smoothed rocks due to the high tide waves. She found a few more shells and a couple that were still, surprisingly, attached to a small creature. Oliver plucked a hermit crab from the edge of the small tidepool and wordlessly showed his girlfriend the unique find. The twisted shell spiraled around and protruded like a spike to one side. She tried several times to find her own hermit crab, but it proved fruitless. The next cave brought back more of Oliver's previous concerns. More jagged rocks were filling the space, but the majority was still covered in sand. The couple took a break, sitting down on one of the larger boulders side by side. Oliver let go of her hand to dust off his legs from the sand, and she took out a few shells and admired them in her palm while they relaxed. The salty scent of the ocean filled his lungs as they stared out at the water on the horizon. Time shared with Alice was precious to him, and he was happy to be able to feel so relaxed in her presence. For once, Oliver could be true to himself without concern for whether the other person understood his sarcasm or not. He was used to people misreading him and thinking his intentions were ill when he only wanted what was best for the people he cared about. Alice understood him, better than he understood himself if he was honest. She took his sarcasm in stride at first, but now she was able to quip back without much thought. She was a smart girl, able to keep up with a mad thing like himself, but he wouldn’t give her the satisfaction of his acknowledgment of that fact out loud. “We should have brought food. I’m hungry.” Alice mentioned, showing Oliver a pretty green shell she found at the previous cave. He took it into his fingers and smoothed over the ridges, removing the embedded sand with his thumbnail. “You already ate a large lunch before we came here.” He smiled up at her. “Your appetite is a force to be reckoned with.” “Yeah, but after all the exertion you must be hungry too.” “Kind of, now that you mention it.” He slid the green shell into his pocket and hopped off the rock. “Why don't we head back now? I can make some tea, and we can eat some snacks before dinner time.” “There’s one more cave! Let’s check that one out first and then we can head back.” She leaped off the rock too and began to saunter over to the next entrance. “You aren’t tired of these musty holes in the earth yet?” He narrowed his eyes while he followed after her, trying to keep up with her wide stride. Alice went ahead and began exploring the bleak cave. Oliver held back at the narrow entrance, eyeing the massive structure. The floor was mostly jagged rocks, void of the usual sand that spilled between that filled the other caves. Alice began walking over the smoothed rocks between the spiky ones. She skipped from one to another as she explored further into the damp crevasse.  A stream of light poured into the cave and shimmered off something next to where Alice was headed. “Alice be careful. I think that’s broken glass next to you. Hold on to the wall.” He alerted. He went to take a step towards her, but Oliver slipped on a loose stone. The crashing sound of the rocks falling spooked Alice.  She lost her balance when she looked back to see if he was alright. Her yelp echoed on the walls of the cave as she also slipped and fell. It all happened so fast. As soon as Oliver gained his balance again his girlfriend's leg was trapped between the serrated rocks. His throat went dry at the sight of her.   “Alice!” Oliver cried out, pushing up on his scuffed up hands. “Shit, I think it cut me.” She mewled, closing her eyes to keep tears from falling. He held his breath while reaching his arm out absently to her. “You’re going to be okay.” Oliver cooed walking closer to see the gore. The glass sliced through her calf while a jagged rock cut into the bottom of her foot. “Everything is going to be fine. Stay calm, okay babe?” “Wow… It must be really bad if you're not scolding me right now.” Trying to keep her voice even proved futile. The strain that came from the outcry she held back punched a hole in his chest. Oliver’s heart rate increased watching her life spilled out and mixed with the small pools of salt water and sand. Alice let the tears stream out of her eyes as she looked down at the ghastly sight. “Stay still. I’m going to get you out of there.” His even, calm voice felt foreign to him. All sarcasm left his tone while his mind went into protective mode. “I can’t really feel anything right now. I don’t think it’s that bad.” Her tongue sounded heavy as she spoke. “Shh, shh...” He lulled, finally making his way around behind her. Oliver knew the fact that she couldn’t feel her leg was a bad sign. She must have severed a nerve, making it almost impossible for her to walk. “That is… a lot of blood though.” She commented, moving her hand to pull up her skirt. “I’m going to carry you out of here okay?” The moment the words left his lips he cursed inwardly. His face scrunched up at his own limitations as he stood silently.   Alice didn’t reply, knowing he wouldn’t be able to hoist her weight at his current size. “I can try to walk.” She swayed, words slurring as she spoke. “Let’s get you off this rock first, okay? Then we can see what we're dealing with.” His small hands moved down to her waist and pulled forcefully. Oliver anchored his feet on the cave floor, and Alice used her arms to help dislodge her leg. Pebbles tumbled around them while they pulled. Finally, her leg broke free, and Alice let out a sob. “Oh no…” She sniffled. “It hurts now… really bad.” Alice filled her lungs double-time as the pain coursed through her being. Oliver hugged her to his chest for a long moment before moving her to lay on her back. Putting her down gently over the jagged rocks proved difficult. Her leg gushed blood, and the cuts were more numerous than he previously thought. Panic filled his chest. How could he get her out of here? Should he run and go get help? It wouldn’t be another few hours before night would fall and he could carry her. However, their walk out to the caves took almost an hour, by the time he would make it back with help he would already be tall enough to carry her.   “What do we do?” Alice asked him, putting her arm over her eyes so he couldn’t watch her cry. “I could run and go get help, but…” He murmured, pushing her hair off her clammy forehead. “My vision is getting fuzzy,” Alice confessed, her voice strained and garbled. He ripped the bottom of her dress into a thick piece of cloth and wiped sand off her wounds. The blood soaked through the garment quickly enough to soil it entirely in a matter of seconds. “I’m going to try to wrap this around your leg. It may hurt…. more.” He bit his lip, hoping to keep the anxiety at bay. “I- do what you….” Her arm went slack. “Alice?” Oliver shook her shoulders. “Alice!” He watched for a long moment while her chest rose slowly. He felt his shoulders relax, glad she had just passed out and not something worse. With trembling hands, he took another large piece off the bottom of her skirt. “I could wrap it or…No. I need to stop the blood flow.” He took the cloth and tied it under her knee, above all the cuts and the large gash. Twisting it tight, he uses the fabric as a tourniquet to halt blood flow to the limb. Oliver removed his belt and tied the cloth around the leather strap, using it to twist the fabric even tighter. Some remaining blood gushed as he secured the tie around her leg with a quick pull. He cried out as the panic rushed to his chest. “HELP! SOMEONE HELP!” His fingers trembled, and his mind raced. His cries for help only echoed off the cave walls, never reaching anyone outside. Defeat stung the corners of his eyes and anger bubbled up within him at his own helplessness. Insecurities suddenly bloomed in his mind. How could he have been so naive? Someone like him, blunt and crass, didn’t deserve to have a loving partner like Alice. She was nothing but kind to everyone she met, giving everyone the benefit of the doubt without judgment. Their relationship was too good to be true, a proverbial needle in a haystack. And now, he was useless to her. He sat frozen in place, reflecting on all the times he felt like he took her kindness for granted. She only said yes to their first date because she was nice, and Alice only continued dating him because he took advantage of her kind heart, right? He sighed heavily and raked his hand through his hair, tugging the ends in frustration. His harsh words echoed in his mind, ones he spoke directly to her face. Idiot, dummy, child, empty-headed. Who would want to be with a man that becomes half of himself as the day breaks? 

He slammed his fist onto the rock. Self-loathing bubbled to the surface, settled in on his torso, and weighed heavy on his chest. A gust of air whipped past him and filled the small chamber, whistling as it sliced past the cracks in the wall. Shoving his hand into his pocket angrily, he felt the green shell she gifted him pass between his fingers. 

No. Oliver opened his glossy eyes and sat up straighter. No, none of that was true. She loved him despite all this. He tried to remind himself of all the proof she cared for him, more than she’s ever cared for anyone. She’d never tell anyone else of her fears and what she wanted for the future. They planned their lives around each other, hoping that they would always be together no matter what. Oliver let out a sigh of relief, seeing the bleeding from her leg had mostly stopped. There were still a few more hours left before night, so he weighed his options. “Alice.” Oliver moved her arm off her face and wiped her drying tears with the back of his hand. “Alice wake up.” He swallowed thickly, brushing her hair away from her face. She didn’t stir, but she was still breathing steadily. Oliver sat back against the uncomfortable rocks and got well-situated. He wasn’t a doctor, so there wasn’t anything he could do but try to get her to one. He looked down at his feeble hands and useless legs and rolled his eyes. Hours passed while he gazed away from the dark abyss of the cave towards the small opening. Alone with his toxic thoughts, he watched the sunset slug across the expanse, taking its sweet time. Or was it time that was making the sunset slower than usual? Orange and pinks painted the sky like a beautiful canvas. He didn't try to wake Alice again. She had been out like a light for hours, and he was sure she wouldn’t wake up anytime soon. Instead, he used his energy to get up from the lumpy boulder. Pebbles and sand fell off his clothes as he stood and faced towards the sky. Time was not on his side today, just as it never was. The last streaks of color faded and stars begin to twinkle in place of the sun's rays. Oliver waited, allowing every miserable second to pass as slowly as it dared. Soon, the last bits of sunlight melt away, and the sky dimmed to an inky black. Oliver turned to his girlfriend just as his transformation took into effect. His arms grew before his eyes as he reached out for her. He picked her up into his arms, carrying her as if she were as light as a feather. Twice his height from moments ago, he ducked out of the small entrance to the cave while adjusting her to fit comfortably in his arms. The trudge down the cost line was strenuous. The sand broke away every step he took making his stride irritatingly uneven. Alice groaned in pain while stretching in his arms. He was happy at least to have her move on her own, but the pain kept her consciousness under still. “You’re going to be okay, Alice. Like I said, everything is fine.” He spoke in a brittle voice, sure she couldn't hear him but hoped some of what he said would break through. He was desperate for her to know he would always take care of her no matter what. “If you wanted all this attention you should have just asked me. I would have cleared my whole day for you.” He smiled gently to himself, walking just out of the waves reach on the shore. The moon was bright enough to illuminate his path while the faraway black army barracks came into view. After an hour and a half of walking his calves burned, feet ached, and arms trembled keeping her close to his chest. “Once I get you to the headquarters you will be in good hands. I will fetch Kyle, that bastard better not be drinking yet, and have him take care of you.” Oliver continued to speak to his unconscious girlfriend. He refused to look at the extensive damage to her leg, the sheet-white limb, her blood-soaked dress, or acknowledge the fact that she stopped moving an hour ago. The barracks grew closer, and Oliver sped up despite his feet sinking into the sand with every step. He rubbed his hand quickly over her cool upper arm to help warm her skin as he took long strides. “I see the headquarters now. After we get you clean and patched up, you can stay with me for a bit, and I can help take care of you. Can’t entrust the gun maniac or anyone else there to take care of you properly.” He scowled at the thought of someone forgetting to change her bandages or being there for her when she needed them the most. No, Oliver made up his mind. He would be the one to nurse her back to health properly. She remained still even as he burst through the front doors of the barracks. Like a whirlwind, the officers spouted orders to bring in a doctor. Luka pulled the unconscious Alice from his arms while others looked away from the gruesome sight. “I’m going to fetch Kyle, I want him to take a look at her,” Oliver shouted over the chatter towards Ray. “Of course, I will allow it.” Ray nodded to him with his brows bunched in uncertainty. With that, Oliver pat her hand and smiled. “I’ll be right back. Don’t go anywhere.” He’d spent all day with her even though their date was supposed to be a simple afternoon break. He smiled at how he would tease her later. She’d wanted to spend the day with him, but he was so busy lately there wasn’t much time for dates. If only they could have gone somewhere less distressing and with some food. Alice would have liked to go on a food tour with him if she had her way. She could really put away more food than he could, and that was a considerable feat. Maybe, once she was feeling better, he could take her on a date like that. Oliver hailed a carriage and set off towards Kyle’s home in the red army headquarters.   ... A few weeks later, Oliver, Blanc, and Kyle sat at a circular table in their favorite tavern. Blanc delicately held his wine glass between two fingers while Kyle and Oliver knocked back the rest of their pints unceremoniously. With a loud clunk, they both dropped their cups back down on the solid wood table. “I- won.” Kyle slurred. “Pretty sure mine hit the table moments before yours did.” Oliver wiped his mouth drunkenly with the back of his unbuttoned sleeve. “Wha-whatever!” Kyle turned to Blanc and blinked slowly. “Who was it. Who won?” His finger moved between pointing to himself and Oliver at his side. With a broad smile, Blanc chuckled “Oh my, don’t put this on me. I was hardly paying attention.” He swirled the liquid in the glass, pushing his glasses back up the bridge of his nose. “Come on, old man. What are you good for?” Oliver chuckled, trying and failing to gain the busy waitresses attention with a sloppy wave of his hand. “I’m just glad we could all be here together. It’s been a rough couple of weeks…” Blanc stared down at his cup as if there were answers just below the surface of the liquid. Deciding there weren’t any answers at all, he slowly brought the glass to his lips and allowed the deep red liquid to pass over his tongue. “Hm,” Kyle’s averted his eyes from the table and glared down at the wooden tavern floors. The trio grew quiet until Oliver broke the tension.   “My week was fine. However, I am exhausted. Alice woke me up so early this morning the sun wasn’t even out yet.” Oliver rubbed his weary eyes with his thumb and pointing finger. “I think she was having a bad dream.” He divulged.   Kyle and Blanc exchanged glances with a worried look and then collectively peered at Oliver. He yawned in his seat, took off his hat, and sat it next to him on the table. The waitress passed him again, but with a tray littered with drinks was unable to take his order. “Oliver, how are you feeling?” Kyle asked quietly. “As I said, I’m just tired.” Oliver adjusted the bow on his hat and continued his thought. “After Alice fell back asleep, I found I was too awake to do the same. I ended up starting the day by working in my garage.” Blanc sat down his wine glass and took a deep breath. “Did you get to take a nap at all? You need to get some rest, Oliver. The bags under your eyes are getting darker.” “Don’t go worrying about me,” Oliver scoffed. “Of course I didn’t have time to nap. I was busy.” “We can call it a night here. Pay for our drinks, and you can go home to get some rest.” Kyle’s brows pinched as he watched his friend wearily. “Not necessary. I would like another drink.” Oliver stood from the table. “Do you want anything?” He asked both of his friends. “Um, I guess another beer then.” Kyle picked up his empty glass and waved it around. Blanc shook his head ‘no’ wearing a gentle smile. Oliver took off towards the bartop to order directly from the bartender to acquire his drinks faster than the waitress could on this busy night. Once Oliver was out of earshot, Kyle let out a long exhale. “What are we going to do?” Blanc stared somberly at his drink for a long moment. “At this point, I haven't a clue what we could do to help him.” “She’s been dead for two weeks now, and he pretends she's still here.” Kyle shakes his head profusely. “I think this is his own way of grieving his loss. He’s in denial, and soon he will move to acceptance.” Blanc reassured, taking a long gulp of his red wine. “He’s gone mad.” “That’s one way to put it.” Blanc licked his lips of a stray droplet. “The more time that passes, the more delusional he becomes...” “Should we say something?”  Kyle looked down at his hands that rested in his lap. “He needs help. This fantasy isn't healthy if it continues. Plus, Oliver doesn’t look like he’s gotten proper sleep in days.” “No, he hasn’t. He works in his workshop all day and night. I think it distracts him from the truth.” “What? That his girlfriend is dead and that he's slowly going insane because of it.” Kyle moves back to rest against the tall chair. “They didn’t have any more pale ale, so I got you a new one to try.” Both men flinched at his sudden presence. Oliver sat the fresh pint in front of the young doctor. “Thanks…” Settling back into his chair, Oliver took a long swig of his whiskey. “Why are you two so quiet all of a sudden?” 

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`If you knew Time as well as I do,’ said the Hatter, `you wouldn’t talk about wasting it.’ - Mad Hatter, Alice In Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

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Thank you so much for reading! I worked on this piece for a very long time and I hope you enjoyed reading it! Sorry it was sad! But, I wanted to write an emotional piece and try to push the boundaries of what I thought I could do. <3

𝔸𝕤𝕙 - 𝔸𝕝𝕝𝕆𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕆𝕝𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣