#Edwin taking notes: fascinating

[myiliterallyhavenolifegoals]

Charles: aw that was aces! right, Edwin?

Edwin: yes it was rather,

*consulting a list of modern slang Niko and Crystal gave him*

Edwin, proudly: poggers :)

[pandorem]

Genuinely find it fascinating from a writing perspective that Edwin’s propensity for playing trauma olympics is a well established trait of his that plays so interestingly into his relationships with Crystal and Charles and Simon especially, and how it works in his character arc and how it both plays into and CONTRASTS his incredible capacity for forgiveness. How it’s a flaw that makes so much sense with how much he’s suffered that it’s hard not to be sympathetic towards it or even agree with him sometimes, but that it IS a flaw and comes up at times that are less fair as well. Im not sure I have a real point to this yet, it’s just something I want to chew on for a while.

for one: Edwin’s tendency to put his trauma as worse than others’ (no matter how literally correct he might be) is set up directly to parallel Crystal’s own self centered tendencies and her character arc. They BOTH have a tendency to not consider other people’s feelings and pain until someone points out to them that they are being dismissive. They are mirrors of each other and I love them so much. I also wanted to push back a bit on some things I’ve seen about how Edwin’s reaction to her yelling at him in episode one was completely justified (“what she’s been through? I spent 70 years in hell!”) because of how their traumas interact and how she let David in the first time that feel too dismissive of Crystal’s trauma. Yes, their trauma’s with demons interact in ways that it makes PERFECT SENSE that Edwin reacted the way he did, and I even sympathize with him, but something being sympathetic does not mean it’s justified. Taking away the metaphor of the Demonic nature of it all, Crystal was just cornered and threatened by her abusive ex boyfriend who has succeeded in isolating her from her entire social circle/any safety net she might have had before the boys. And uh. We don’t say about people getting out of abusive relationships that it’s justified that people were mad at them for getting into the relationship willingly. So.

Also. While Edwin’s measuring of their traumas is more sympathetic in the first episode, the moment in a later episode where Edwin (nearly lightheartedly) dismisses Crystal’s nightmare about her abusive demon ex because “the living know nothing about true nightmares” is less so, and I think is there to confirm that this is a genuine, deliberately written character flaw that he needs to grow out of, just like Crystal needs to grow.

And that brings us to Simon. The character who Edwin is THE MOST justified to be angry at, to blame and to compare their punishments. When he rages that Simon damned him to decades of being ripped apart while Simon sits quietly crying in a room, getting paper cuts from tearing pages out of books, it’s honestly difficult not to agree with him, to not feel that same righteous indignation. But then despair lays it out for him: he was about to gloat over another’s torture. And even without yet knowing more about Simon, Edwin is horrified by the idea. I think it says so much about Edwin’s GOODNESS that the time this character flaw of his feels the most justified and right is also the time he works through and past it to empathize with the pain of the real person on the other side of that. It is after he comes back, needing Simon to know that he didn’t mean to gloat, that he is then able to see Simon as a real person, as someone he shares pain with, the pain of being closeted and terrified in the 1910s. Simon was a kid, same as Edwin, who was terrified of his own nature and let that fear and humiliation lead him to cruelty that ended in consequences that he never intended. And it says so, so much about Edwin’s goodness that once he is able to see past his own pain and empathize with someone else’s, he feels for and maybe even forgives the one person that he would be most justified in NOT forgiving. That connecting with him is literally what saved Simon’s soul in the end.

(It’s also worth noting- Simon thinks that Edwin is “another trick” when he first sees him. He says that “the headmaster will be angry”. In keeping with the theme that we shouldn’t compare traumas or decide that we know what other people are going through, it seems clear to me that what we saw- sitting alone and getting paper cuts- was NOT the entirety of Simon’s hell.)

And then there’s Charles. Now. Edwin has a lot of 1910s sensibilities that make him connecting the dots on what Charles went through a bit difficult for him. But Edwin never, ever suggests that his trauma is less or isn’t worth getting upset about. Because it’s Charles, and Charles deserves no amount of pain ever, in the world. I don’t think it would ever occur to Edwin if I’m honest. Of course it’s because he loves him and Charles is his favourite person in the universe, but also I wonder at the fact that their very first meeting, so soon after Edwin had escaped hell, was one of complete empathy and compassion. Maybe seeing the bullies made him see himself in Charles but it sort of circles the point I think I’m making- Edwin’s very real flaws contrast against and thus highlight his INCREDIBLE kindness and goodness.

[godslush]

The 'new' classification system with Dan's 'ask chat' ability is fascinating to me. I dug some up in-game, but since it takes soooo long, I ended up just going into the files and digging them up manually (enemyType: string in the Enemies.json file). There's some interesting thought process going on here.

I won't list them ALL because I do have to go to work. A bunch of them are pretty obvious; a lot of characters you'd guess are classified as "Cursed" are, in fact, Cursed.

A few interesting things have stood out to me so far:

Cursed doesn't apply to everyone who looked outside, or got mutated; even Joel and Hellen are classified as "Human", as well as most of Joel's family (except Baby Teeth, who is "Cursed"). Leigh, as "Grinning Woman/Beast", is fully classified as "Cursed".

Even "Stressed Out" (IE William, the wounded door encounter after his lower half turns into a monster) is classed "Human"

Morton is classed as "Insect" right out the gate, not Cursed. This means 'Chat' figured it out even before Sam did, which is very funny to me.

Rat King is "Cursed" (Frankie did straight up say on stream that Rat King is Fabrice; Frederick's friend who saw his painting), while Rat Freak, and most of the 'body part' rats are classed as "Human". Weirdly, Rat Hole is "Cursed" despite describing its situation as transforming through having been bitten a lot.

"Witness" appears to apply to those very basic beginning game enemies, but the knife neighbor and Vincent are still "Human". Eternal Eye is "Cursed" so perhaps it's a "level of transformation" thing. However, Mutt is also classed as a Witness.

The only other character specifically classed as "Witness"? Jasper.

("Chorus of One", "Unholy Duet", "Discordant Triune", and "Chaos Quartet" are Cursed, while Exalted Four is "Ascended"... XIN-AMON is also "Ascended")

SPEAKING OF ASCENDED there are a few others with this class: Spore Mother, Faceless Fred (!), Furnace, and some unimplemented bosses I won't speak of here but have deliciously fascinating names.

Branching off of Spore Mother, "Fungus" is obviously it's own class and which characters are fungus should be obvious, but weirdly enough Laughing Mold is considered "Cursed" instead.

Lokjaw is a "Mutant" which also applies to Tumorhead, EyeCluster, any of the Worm Parts associated with Rafta-infested Nestor, the 'remade' creeps in Edwin's dark apartment and... weirdly enough, the first couple enemies in the garage (the cone and the tires). That's it. Very small clade.

"Painting" should be obvious, but once again it is interesting that Faceless Fred is "Ascended" but becomes a "Painting" once his face is returned. "Cowboy Hat" is "Human" but I am presuming this is when you attack it while it's on Sam's head, so technically you're attacking Sam. "Not a Cowboy Hat" is still a Painting.

Another obscure one is "Passenger" which only applies to things off the bus, but not EVERYTHING off the bus (Crawing Hand is Cursed). Things in Henderson's apartment are "Conscripts". Trench Digger is Cursed.

"Pipe Man" is it's own class for the sewer (includes the 'corpses'), but the Boiler Beast is "Cursed".

"Frostbitten" is its own class, which applies to all the frozen enemies including Enforcer in the basement, but NOT to PomPom, who is Cursed.

"Taxidermy" is its own class, which applies to all the enemies in that apartment except Suture Wire, which is Cursed.

It does seem like a single 'Cursed' surrounded by a bunch of hyper-specific enemies in a special area indicates an infection that spread, with the 'Cursed' being the Patient Zero for that area, but not always.

It's worth noting that nothing in the plant apartment has an enemyType: and is just listed as a lowercase "monster" in-game (which might just mean the devs forgot)

The "???" shadow enemies have the class "Shade" until you get to the BIGGEST ones (that don't have words, only variations of "???? ?? ?? ?"), where they become classified as Cursed.

And to make matters EVEN MORE CONFUSING, "Shadow" (IE, the white mask) is classed as "????"

DO take into consideration the only way one would canonically find these in game is through Dan's "Chat" so take that as you will.

THERE'S PROBABLY MORE TO GLEAN, but right now I have to go to work!!!

[brainrotbee]

Payneland Promptfest Day 1: "Forget I said anything"

~

"That took far longer than necessary."

Charles nodded and watched as Edwin set down the case of vials they had just bought. Charles still wasn't entirely sure what was in them but he knew better than to investigate. Nothing would be worse than accidentally being transformed into a newt, again.

Edwin sighed. "I don't know why that shopkeeper felt the need to speak with me for nearly twenty minutes." He pulled out one of the vials and inspected it. "It's not as if we're friends."

Charles rolled his eyes and took a seat on top of the desk. "Come on, mate."

Edwin crossed his arms. "What?"

"You really don't know?"

"No. Enlighten me."

Charles shook his head. How could he explain this in a way Edwin would understand? "She fancies you."

Edwin scoffed. "No, she does not." He reached for an envelope on top of the mail pile but Charles grabbed it before he could.

"Yes, she does." He grinned. "Haven't you noticed the way she starts giggling whenever you come round or how she never takes her eyes off you?"

Edwin looked away. "That's ridiculous." He snatched the envelope out of Charles's hands and opened it, looking a bit flustered. They were quiet for a few ticks while Edwin read the envelope's contents. Then: "Why would anyone think of me that way in the first place?" He glanced at Charles briefly before shoving his face back into the letter. "It's quite obvious that I'm not good with others."

"Oi," Charles scolded. "You're great. There's plenty to like about you." He swallowed, suddenly feeling shy. "You're smart and you care about people, even if you won't say it." He began tracing the wood grain just to have something to do. "You're proper fit too. Girls like tall guys with dark hair. Your eyes are pretty mint too. I can never tell what color they really are; they're always changing. It's-"

Charles faltered. Edwin was staring at him with a combination of fascination and embarrassment. Charles cleared his throat awkwardly. He couldn't believe he'd just rambled about his best mate's looks. That wasn't something normal friends did. "Forget I said anything."

Edwin ducked his head and nodded. "Alright." He returned to the letter and began making notes in his notebook. In the silence, Charles cursed himself for acting so stupid. His moping was cut short by though. Edwin, without looking up, placed a hand on top of Charles's.

"Thank you."

[mirellapryce]

In every fandom I enter my brain has to concoct a Spy AU, so here is my Spy/Argyle Dead Boy Detectives AU. Please note I never actually saw Argyle I just watched review videos so take this with a hefty handful of creative interpretation.

Edwin as author of queer spy/detective/whodunit novels, his most famous of which is “Agent Paine”. His career really took off in the last year, but now he’s stuck and his agent is telling him to get some country air and write another Agent Paine novel. 

Saved on a train by TCK who tells him all his novels are either things that have happened or things that come true. He’s a spy himself and he finds E.P. Rowland’s works just so fascinating. Anyway, now he’s here to protect Edwin and take him in to the spy agency. 

Along the way they meet Monty. (Anyone else?) 

Eventually they meet the real Agent Paine. Hi Charles. 

The man is handsome and charming, witty and has a winning smile. Oh no, he’s just Edwin’s type.  After the most confusing hug and subsequent interrogation about who he is, where he’s been for the last year, and what he knows about their spy agency, Agent Paine goes to yell at Agent King in the other room. The only part Edwin catches clearly is when he stomps back in the room saying, “This place will be safe as long as I want it to be safe. No one’s getting to him.”  

“So you’re him? You’re the Agent Paine all my stories are apparently about?” 

“Probably not, but I’m not actually much of a reader, so I don’t know for sure.” 

-choke and sputter and indignation- 

“My partner used to do the same thing. He’s the real Agent Payne. Spelled with a Y by the way. Why don’t you tell me what it’s about?” 

Talking, reading passages and gesticulating when he looks at Charles and realises. “Are you?...Sorry, why are you crying?” 

Wiping tears. “Sorry mate. It’s just, my husband’s been missing for a year. It’s been rough. Don’t worry about me. What happens next?” 

(Darn. Of course a man that handsome is already taken) 

“So, E.P. Rowland?” 

“Yes? That is my name after all.” 

Laughing. “Oh yeah? What’s the P for then?”

Pause. Uncertainty. Eventually settles on it being a flourish, but he’s unsettled. He should know what the P stands for or he should remember putting it there in the first place. 

Charles goes through the plots and tells Edwin what did happen, and what hasn’t yet, but that the plots he came up with make sense. He looks sentimental when he tells Edwin that he has the mind of a strategist. They come to the conclusion that the books Edwin writes are probably actually about his missing partner/husband. Edwin is excited to suggest that maybe therein lies the key to finding the other Agent Payne (tho admittedly a part of him is jealous and doesn’t want his time with this handsome spy to end), but for some reason Charles doesn’t seem all that eager. When pressed he admits that he called for backup when he sent King away, and that he’s more focused on getting Edwin to a more secure location. 

Crystal is backup and despite Charles warning her ahead of time she’s also ill-prepared for E.P. Rowland. They immediately start squabbling. Something about the banter feels comforting which is ridiculous. He also doesn’t like how cozy she seems to be with Charles. Doesn’t she know he’s married even if his husband is MIA? Doesn’t Charles? 

Spy and fight things happen. They get to HQ where he meets a lovely lady named Niko who is similarly teary like Charles had been. But unlike Charles she’s read all his books and is eager to discuss them with him. Especially the romance parts. Edwin hadn’t said anything to Charles, but after they concluded that Agent Paine was actually Charles’ partner/husband, Edwin could see all the hints that Charles was the rogueish, impetuous love interest in his novels. Now he feels a way about some of the steamier things he’s written, knowing these are real people. He didn’t tell Charles about that. He can tell from her grin that Niko already knows. 

Something-something action happens, then reveal that Edwin is THE Agent Paine/Payne. He lost his memories in an operation gone wrong with Monty where Monty betrayed them at the orders of Esther Finch. Or Edwin found out Monty was a mole and Monty somehow wiped his memories (I’m leaning more towards spy tech than blunt force injury). Technically Monty should have killed him, but Edwin and Monty are friends (/Monty has a crush on him) so he just removed him and made up a story that Edwin was missing.  

Pieces are coming back to Edwin now. He should be focusing on the betrayal and what he knows about Monty and Esther’s plans, but his brain keeps picking memories of Charles instead. How they were best friends long before they were lovers and then husbands. How for the last year it’s felt like he’s missing a limb, always looking over his shoulder to tell someone something, missing a comforting touch even though he hates other people touching him. 

Anyway, it turns out that when they got married, Charles took Edwin’s name because of bad association with his dad. Edwin kept his name but secretly thought of himself as Edwin Payne-Rowland because he only associates the name Rowland with the best person he knows. 

[edwin-paynes-bowtie]

Both Edwin and his notebook were normal objects, once. He would have carried it in his bookbag or in his pocket, taking notes about detective novels and coursework.

But then both Edwin and his notebook were taken to Hell. Maybe he hid it under a floorboard; maybe he hid it in a hole in the wall. It was his salvation, writing notes in it while he was down there, creating maps and escape plans and little drawings while actively being tortured for decades. It didn't just enable him to escape Hell; it provided him with a refuge while he was there.

And then he got out. With the notebook.

He slipped it into his pocket, maybe, or he held it in his hand. But he walked through an entirely new world, and he started to take notes in it again about what it was like to be a ghost. Ghost rules. Facts and historical events in this new world he lives in, this new world he cannot yet fathom.

That notebook is his constant comfort. And now he's a boy back at St Hilarion's, 73 years of horrors later, taking notes in the same logbook he'd had when he was alive.

Over time, he realized: Hell changed the notebook. Just as Edwin was an eternal being, the notebook was now an eternal thing. The pages inside were limitless, and he will always be able to use it.

Edwin's relationship with his notebook must be so rich, and so nuanced. I wish we had season 2 and could delve into this more, because it's so fascinating to me and I love him so much.

[yowlthinks]

One more thought on Catwin that I keep coming back to:

The Cat King prides himself on being fair, note how he underlines the fact that any sort of relationship with him is consensual. Add to this, that they part on a note of mutual understanding and respect, and I think that whatever "Edwin's first adult experience" (as mentioned in the cameos) happened in s2, it was based on that exactly.

And what I think it could be is Edwin taking a leaf out of Nico's book. Think about her major behaviour patterns, and they fit perfectly into where Edwin has room for growth:

- She approaches everything with kindness and an open mind. Even the things that scare her, even the things that could be dangerous (key example: the Sprites, but also the Cat King - she is the only one who always treats him with utmost respect)

- She overcomes her initial fear and opens up to new experiences, opens up to people

- She believes in love and being herself (ok, with a setback with Jenny, but she still comes back to it).

So where does this bring Edwin?

He has accepted his sexsuality by end of s1, in s2 he might come to the view that he might want to explore further, even if not with Charles. And who better than someone who passes no judgement, who Edwin realises is in many ways similar to him, and who he knows already is fascinated by him? I think it is not smth he would plan, but something that might just happen (loneliness?), and probably also something that would allow him to understand himself better.

And yes, obviously Edwin and Charles are the endgame, but to get there, Charles needs to realise some things, and Edwin probably wants to gain more confidence.

[goldenmorningglory]

we need a painland parallel of the piano scene from skam france s3.

edwin finding a piano and just being fascinated, cause it's been over a century since he's been around one. even when he was alive, he didn't have the time for music, or more specifically he made sure he didn't, to not give any potential bullies more fuel to mark him out.

just edwin letting latent muscle memory take over and drifting off into a breathless piece, fingers flying over keys like they're dancing. just him eyes closed, swaying to it, softest smile flickering on his lips.

crystal watching and feeling niko's fingers grip her arm, turning to find her teary, quiet joy reflected in her eyes. a feeling of contentment so bone deep that she feels she could sleep dreamless for the first time in years.

niko watching and feeling inexplicably full, like a balloon of emotions in her chest is threatening to burst. she can't put in words if she tried, how much it fills her with comfort, the notes that flow from edwin's fingers into the air.

them turning to glance at charles and charles just having the most unfamiliar expression on his face. it's somewhere between surprise and intrigue and fierce yearning and sadness. them looking away because it felt too intimate like there was a cloak settling over him of distance.

edwin finishing the piece and snapping out of it. him turning around, sheepish smile on his face cause he hardly gets distracted like that and he didn't know what had gotten into him. niko and crystal just spontaneously gushing and edwin looking half embarassed and half endeared. they're leaving the room, niko and crystal walking ahead in deep discussion, and charles who has still not said anything, putting out his hand to stop edwin.

edwin whose non-existent breath hitches and he turns to charles, who's looking at him with such intent and intensity it makes him slightly lightheaded. charles almost unthinkingly sliding his hand down edwin's arm to his fingers, lifting his hand to his face. edwin feeling each puff of artificial breath on his gloveless hands.

charles softly caressing his fingers, tracing each dip and divot, and looking at edwin through lowered lashes. edwin muttering out a nervous query, and charles simply brushing his lips to edwin's fingers, stopping him dead.

you're surprising, even after 30 years, he breathes will you play for me again soon?

edwin, voiceless and blank, nodding. anything, he responds, similarly breathless. anything you want.

charles' lips ticking up in a quiet smile, his eyes never less intense, and gracing edwin's fingers with another faint but impactful kiss. it was beautiful, he says and gently drops edwin's hand, turning his face away and follows the girls out.

edwin stands till he can catch his breath, fearing he may have died once more and actually received heaven as his destination this time.

[deadshowsagency]

Well, since I haven't written for a long time, I'm just going to share my DBDA draft from my notes from last December.

You are a teenage psychic. You are recent member, having the Dead Boy Detectives help you with your case. Your case is about how you keep hearing voices until you go mad and you always see a clown everytime you look into reflective surfaces. You were about to witness your first love (Edwin) confess to Charles. The painful part is you know about his feelings yet you have feelings for him. Until a spider from the pits of hell disturbs the painful yet heartfelt moment by taking Edwin back to hell.

"Edwin!" Charles yells for Edwin, running to the wall he just disappeared with the spider and bangs at the wall.

"What the hell?!" You shouted, covering your mouth with your hand.

You try to process what happened, try to make sense of what you just witnessed. You just watched the boy who read you to sleep get taken away by some fiery spider who just appeared out of nowhere. You felt a hole burned through your chest, a void made with despair.

"What the hell was that?" Charles turns to the night nurse, holding Edwin's notepad.

Your eyes get blurry with unshed tears as you gaze at it, realizing what happened.

Edwin told you many stories, in detail, about how he gets chased by a spider made of dolls. You sit by his side, fascinated by his stories, as he tells you his experiences and how he escaped. He also tells you that you know it's coming whenever you hear a giggle.

Before he disappeared, you swore you heard a giggle, with a spider figure carrying him out of the room. Maybe out of this realm.

"A demon. I'd say from one of the middle levels." The Night Nurse sputters a little as she explains, confirming your conclusion.

"You mean to tell us he's back from that torture hole?!" You yelled at the Night Nurse.

"Technically, yes." The Night Nurse confirms.

"Oh, bloody hell." You mutter as you run your fingers on your hair, turning away.

"No, you said you'd sort us out. That you wouldn't send him back!" Charles says, gesturing at the wall.

"It is no mere fault of my own!" The Night Nurse defends herself, stepping back in anger.

"You have no clue of what he's endured in that sh!t hole." You cursed under your breath, turning back to her. "He already said it was a technicality!" You yelled again as Crystal and Niko walked in the room.

"Holy sh!t, you're still alive?" Crystal asked from behind you.

"Old news!" The Night Nurse and you say in unison. "Old news, dear."

"Old news, innit? Then the new news is she fed us a load of tosh about giving us a chance in the afterlife," Charles walks towards the two girls, the Night Nurse gaping in offense as he continues to talk. "And summoned something to send Edwin back to hell."

You stare at the wall he disappeared into, your gaze landing on a bowtie on the floor. Edwin left his bowtie behind as well. The bowtie you love to fix every time the group will accept a case.

You reached into your jeans pocket, taking out a handkerchief and walked forward to pick it up. You're careful with where you put your fingertips as to not read the bowtie, fearing you will see the horrors of Hell.

But-

You can read the bowtie so you can find out if Edwin was harmed, right?

You turned to look at Charles, whose eyes roamed on the bowtie. His mouth falls open slightly, he looks at you like he knows what you are thinking of.

"Y/n, don't-" Charles tries to intervene, but it was too late. Your fingertips touch the bowtie and you saw-

You turn your head in all four directions, breathing heavily. You can hear the giggle but you can't find it. If you can't find it, might as well focus on running?

You turn to a corner to the next, desperately trying to find somewhere to hide. Your feet hit some doll heads, but your attention is not focused on the pain you feel on your feet. Not now.

The giggle is getting closer; you can't just hear it, you can also feel it on the back of your neck. Your adrenaline spikes up, you try to catch your breath as you run faster. Every part of you is filled with fear, every breath you gasp is never out of relief. Every look you give, every touch, every heartbeat, never rests in peace. Every day, every hour, every minute, every second contains no rest, never safe.

No, nonononono the giggle is getting closer, it's getting -

You felt something grab you from behind as you gasp.

"Y/n!" Charles shakes you back to reality, making you drop the bowtie wrapped in the handkerchief.

You gasp for air as your knees weaken. Charles supports your weight, slowly dropping you on the ground. What the hell was that you saw?!

Edwin. That was Edwin?

"Y/n, are you alright? What did you see?" Charles asks as he rubs your arms in comfort.

You loom around the room, trying to get yourself back to reality by focusing on Charles' touch and the brightness of the room. You see the Night Nurse, that's good, with her mouth agape.

"Oh, dear." You hear her whisper, as she winces.

"Ed- Edwin. Edwin's legit in Hell." You managed, gulping.

"Edwin's in hell?" Niko exclaimed.

(wasn't continued because of the note limit.)

@montythehumancrow @spiteful-summer-of-sixteen @philosophershroomie @mrnightingale

[thatonesongyouretryingtoremember]

DBD rewatch notes!

episode 1

Why was Charles making that face before offering Crystal to stay at the office?

Why are they not supposed to interact with the living? clearly Emma has no such qualms.

Crystal speaks up to make sure Edwin hears when she says thank you for taking her in

Why is David a surprising name for a demon? Why IS David called David, if it isn't a demon name?

HOW did I watch the show this many times without noticing the septum ring??

"The living are messy. If she had died last night, I'd have no issue with her being here." OKAY EDWIN. I guess this and the 'no living people' rule must have to do with the Infamous Puppy Debacle of '94. In this case, Edwin is not insulting Crystal specifically, but is being very literal that he would not be worried about taking care of a dead person.

I love how they NAME everything from cases to moves to incidents.

Charles teases Edwin for being jealous, but does he actually think that? Edwin is just overly cautious, and yeah that's causing an issue at the moment, but does he have, like, a record of being jealous of girls Charles likes?

Charles immediately tries to seperate Edwin and Crystal to stop them arguing, and Crystal is like "wait what??" like she's SO surprised. Also kinda love the not-subtle dig at Edwin's behavior. That does not go without retaliation ie: you weren't here when the mail came

WAIT they're going on a walk and taking, like Edwin and Monty. that's cute.

Did Crystal actually thin Edwin was in hero for being evil? I feel like that is surprising to hear regardless. Is it common for Charles to explain to people that his bf was only sent to hell on a technicality??

I think Crystal must have learned about hell from David, because if the ghosts she has met haven't moved on yet they have no way of knowing about hell.

The focus on people staring at Crystal is kinda weird. Does she even realize yet?

What did she used to feel like when people got mad at her for being mean?

What does Charles think about the way Crystal talks about her anger? He says it's cool that she is still alive, but does he admire her honesty too?

The up-and-down when she asks if that line used to work. He didn't even tell her what decade he died. Read him.

Aww she wanted to get Edwin some coffee to cheer him up. She even says hi to him as soon as she's inside. Crystal cares whether Edwin likes her or not. At the very least, she is trying to be nice to him.

How DOES the ghost post work? also the sheer incredulity of Crystal's voice lmao. Why exactly does the mail carrier sneak up on them? is he also dead?

Why does he care who the client is? they already know what the mystery is.

'keep your voice down!' bestie you already flirted at her, she knows.

'it's happening too quickly' Edwin doesn't wanna screw up his routine

good on Crystal for getting straight to business. Becky's ALIVE, boys!

Why do they think Death will come back to the office?

more people stare at Crystal. Dies she really not notice before the malt shop?

I can't help being reminded of that textpost about putting Crystal in the bag and going through a mirror.

Edwin thinks he is so clever with the agency name joke. He is so proud of that one. same thing with his journal of opinions joke. he's having so much fun rn.

I love that every time there's a Jenny scene the soundtrack changes to goth or rock music.

Why is the red LED neat diagram briefly orange and why is Edwin so fascinated by it?

She's scary for all of two seconds before becoming awkward and weird and mean. Jenny, ladies and etc!

Edwin is so menacing here FOR WHAT

Crystal gets the room as is, then never decorates it during the following weeks.

Can those ghosts teleport?? I noticed the dragons so it too, is it a shirt distance thing?? wtf?

pictures of guys, huh Charles? Is there anything else notable about the pictures?

Edwin jesus fuck lay off her. He is looking for just ANY excuse to talk shit.

Charles trying to help out Crystal is nice. I wonder why she doesn't like reading minds though? During the course of the series, she totally volunteers to read minds and it's a go-to solution for her. What happened to put her off it that she doesn't remember anymore?

What'd he do to get burned by the iron?

I guess after knowing ghosts for however long, none of them must have told Crystal about iron.

how does that alarm system via possession even work??

After that silence I kinda thought Edwin went to hell for possession when I first watched LMAO

Esther must have put the shoes in the woods as a distraction. I wonder if the boys would have ever found out if it weren't for Crystal.

they know cats talk and have human personalities and yet Charles sees one and is instantly like "aw fuck off man :((" bro chill

Why is the cat voice so. echoey?

what would happen if somebody tried to sit on the stools that the boys are already on?

Do we ever see anything like this door entrance in a mindscape scene after this? Does she ever walk around while in a trance again?

holy crap Edwin

I guess she takes a while to figure out it's her own brain. mecore.

of course there's an argument now. how could there not be?

then they never follow up on the "our demon" line

poor old Edwin has Charles taking such good care of him that he isn't used to the guy trying to take care of TWO peoples' feelings. Man I know that they don't talk about feelings in your time but at some point you've got to learn that everything you're saying is a fear reaction and not a moral stance.

I love the high contrast in this scene!

Simon's lil smile and Edwin walking away looks SO different with Context.

why tf is the sacrifice named "Mary Ann" and WHAT is Simon's brother into?

"don't do that!" and a breath of relief followed immediately by a jumpscare is SO GOOD. like I get scared by jumpscares but I love when they do it like this.

"It's not that bad" *hoovers the boy* *sells him to a demon*

THE TRANSITION. WITH THE SCREAMING

Why is the same cat here? is he following Edwin? W H Y

you're such a whore 🙄 (cat voice)

What if I offered you a sardine out of my gloves hand and bound you in a magical leash and you were a cat🥺 (and we were both boys)

The cat's mannerisms are pretty convincing IMO. my cat does the same ear thing when she wants me to leave her alone. And the tense shoulder/neck scrunch combo just adds to the effect.

I wish Edwin got to use more magic in the show.

not the apathetic eyebrow raise

me when I dump blood

I love this scene. Jenny is so awkward but also she remembers what Crystal says here. She remembers hearing about Crystal's ex like three times ever and ends up going after that boy with a cleaver. but it all starts with Jenny not knowing if she's allowed to show that she cares.

oh and her shield of cynicism

and the way she asks for more information!!

Charles with the questions! detective-ass.

it's interesting that Jenny and Charles both try to help Crystal while looking through a lens colored by trauma (specifically parental flavored) but Charles is so gentle while Jenny is abrasive.

Crystal! With the self-awareness!!

if you what? finish the sentence, Crystal.

Also she says "didn't you see that" like those pink lights were not symbolic they were real in-universe. Crystal and Niko were still acting hella gay tho. ofc, Crystal was under a spell and Niko is just Like That.

FAIR QUESTION

he doesn't answer whether or not it's weird. He also doesn't wait for an answer of if she'll tell Edwin. He trusts her.

Aww poor kidddsss

Edwin walks in and out of rooms like God sent him

Crystal with the self-awareness once agaiiiin 😎

TRANSITIONS

if she was in that relationship since three months ago and we don't know how long she was possessed for before Emma figured out how to find the boys, she may have already been missing for weeks at this point.

The way she is dressed and the way she's acting is risky different from the memories she gets from the marbles. Is this a real memory? Why would she dress like that, or hang out with those people?

Is the possession paralelled to any of this scary movies that was playing in the theater they go to? bc it looks really familiar.

Edwin is really focusing on the wrong details here, man. Also comparing a scared person to their abuser is not fuckin cool.

YAY! FEELINGS TALK!

I love the sound of his voice in this scene.

I mean I thought it was already clear that neither of them wanted David involved but if Edwin needs clarification that's fine ig

the description of Esther is line a spoken word poem

you know he doesn't get out much when he doesn't know about the internet

Jenny is iconic

absolutely ZERO emotional response to "Like kind of a sexy witch who smokes alot but in a cool way" like maybe they didn't hear Charles. maybe their minds were blocking it out because what the fuck /j

and her coat gets caught in the door and she can't drive. Perfect.

The fuckin twirl. Thank you costumes for cutting the vent stitch because the swooshy coat adds to the effect 🙏

Esther leaves the stove on when she's out of the house? does she want her bird to DIE!? It must be an accident because Edwin has to take it off :o either that, or she wasn't planning on leaving for too long, or knew there'd be someone to take care of it 👀

Also Edwin is EXACT in his reading if the floor plan. Like that is SPECIFIC

is that a sink cabinet? no basin??

an empty cabinet like that is sus anyways. who has that little stuff??

Edwin volunteers and Charles knows he's scared but makes sure he does it anyways. I wonder if there are any more examples of this behavior.

Monocrome; floor littered in bones and shoes. Edwin is 'weighed down'

it's not a void, there's a floor.

Wait Has Esther been planting shoes for the cops to find, then re-stealing them for her snake's nest??

Also how often does she kidnap forms because I feel like she'd either have to run out or get caught at some point.

"bag of tricks" they name EVERYTHING

technically they didn't break in

what did she THINK they wanted?

COLLECTOR

I've already said this but Esther loves things she *consumes*, so her love of birds is kinda bad news for Monty. He's just there to use in her plans.

Also the first time I watched this I thought Esther was trying to kiss Crystal. like that shot is. weird.

Why does Charles want the bird to be his friend and why is he not concerned about its living conditions

rope+ magic weight= OW

technically, since everyone else is only going off of Edwin's (and later Cat King's) word, they might think the snake is huge but realistic. do they know it's like fifty feet??

interesting that they show it takes multiple puffs of smoke to paralyze someone but later when she gets power from that rando ghost she does a whole ranged spell with the pipe because she is more powerful.

that is some weird and impractical snake jewelry on her hand.

MUSIC

appearance ONE of the BAT! he DOES NOT get to use it!

Edwin looks to be MORE bothered by the iron burn than Charles now that nobody is looking.

Do people normally get incapacitated when Crystal does her trick?? or is that special for this time?

I wonder what Crystal thinks watching this possession, since she just got possessed recently.

bag of worms?? not a thing

MONTY im tryna threaten some kids🥺

MUSIC

I guess the woods thing was believable bc she's a girl scout.

Also now that Becky's mind is wiped, she can't see the boys even though she has been close to the supernatural. I guess it would have worked on Jenny too if she chose that.

is now a good time to mention: I LOVE Crystal's weird-ass jacket. and she's wearing overalls again today, like in episode (six? I think?)

so now are they on David's case? I guess not lmao

The Night Nurse's hair is so funny to me. She is the only person who would ever think to wear victory rolls with a microfringe.

why are those photos so low-quality and why is the Afterlife Lost and Found a liminal '50s office building full of women?

[sugar-coated-prat-dragon]

Title: Gaius used other ingredients like mint, sage, lavender and thyme to try to heal Morgana

Episode: "A Remedy to Cure All Ills" questions #1

Questions by @tansyuduri

Tagging: @miyriu

Books used for reference: Valiant, The Mark of Nimueh, A Fighting Chance and Merlin Annual 2010.

Question: Gaius originally blames Morgana's condition on inflammation of the brain caused by infection? That seems pretty advanced medical terminology?

My answer: Gaius does seem to have a greater understanding of medicine then one would expect of the time period, but his knowledge is also consistent, since he was reading a book on ‘diseases of the mind’ when Morgana first started having nightmares.

Book description: Gaius had slammed the book shut quickly, but not before Gwen had seen that it had been about diseases of the mind.

Gwen could see in her mistress's eyes that she, too, knew that her dreams might be the symptoms of some deeper malady.

Question: So according to what Gaius claims he used Rosemary and Yarrow to try to cure Morgana of her illness?

My answer: One of the annual books also notes that Gaius used Mint, Sage, Lavender and Thyme as well in the treatments.

(Source: Merlin Annual 2010)

Book description: When Edwin secretly used an enchanted scarab to make Morgana gravely ill, Gaius tried to cure her with potions made from herbs.

Mint, Rosemary, Sage, Lavender and Thyme

Question: Gaius: “Probably some charlatan hoping for a quick shilling.”

Now onto Shilling, I believe this is the only time a unit of money is mentioned?

My answer: They never used the term shilling again, but we do know in the Merlin verse that they use silver and gold coins.

In fact, Merlin ends up having to pay ten pieces of silver to burrow a cart, so they can wheel one of the dead bodies back to the psychoanalysis quarters.

(Source: The Mark of Nimueh)

Book description: Thankfully he soon spied another empty cart, and set about haggling with its owner to let him borrow it.

Five minutes later - and lighter by ten pieces of silver - he was thundering back up the hill to where Gaius was patiently waiting.

Question: Wouldn’t the Alchemy equipment used by Edwin be similar to the stuff Gaius uses as a physician?

My answer: Merlin notes the instruments were nothing he’d ever seen, even in Gaius’s chambers.

Book description: Merlin helped Edwin to set up his equipment in a guest room. The instruments were like nothing he'd ever seen before, even in Gaius chambers - strange metal devices the purposes of which he couldn't guess. Edwin told him they were originally designed for alchemy, the process by which men attempted to turn base metals into gold.

He was also very keen to learn more about Edwin's fascinating equipment. He hoped the man would show him what all the different items were for.

Question: Why wasn’t Edwin worried about claiming “the dreams should have been a warning?”

Especially, since the nightmares weren’t actually going to go away?

My answer: Edwin told Uther earlier on his death bed that he was going to kill him and bring back magic to the kingdom.

So I don’t think it actually mattered whether Morgana’s nightmares came back or not, because once the king was dead, he was going to take over the kingdom (with or without the use of Merlin’s more powerful magic to aid him).

There would be no point in keeping up the charade at that point.

Book description: Edwin stared Merlin straight in the eye.'I can rule the kingdom now. With you at my side, we can be all-powerful.”

[awesomeart-83]

David Afton Au

For people who have being keeping with up with FNAF lore, the Mimic is now the new antagonist of the franchise taking after William Afton. However, considering that his only appearance (right now) is in the RUIN dlc without explaination

To sum it up: In the 1970s, a man named Edwin Murray had a hard time juggling his work for Fazbear Entertainment and taking care of his 4-year old son David. One day, he comes up with the idea to create a pal for David that can mimic his every movement.

However what if their roles were reversed?

Edwin was able to make it to the highway on time and run across the lanes and pushed David out of the way of the white van. While David only got a head injury and had to be taken to the hospital, Edwin was hit full forced by the speeding vehicle. As the van hit him, his whole body was hit with a wave of pain. His bones cracked, blood spilled from his mouth, and he can barely hear the screams of terror from bystanders. But he only had one thought in his mind before passing away.

Please let David have a good life without me.

When David woke up the hospital, he know he nearly got hit by a car. But what he didn’t realized that his father was gone.

However near the end of the week, 2 young man visited the kid and apologized for what happened to his father. When David asked who they were, one of them replied…..

“My name is William Afton and I was your father’s partners.”

David was confused since he never met Mr. Afton.

For the next weeks, William visited the poor kid to cheer him up. Giving his plushies.

“Why not stay with me and my children and my beautiful wife as a family member?”

With nowhere else to go and nobody to take care of him, David accepts Mr. Afton’s offer.

While searching through the now abandoned Murray family, Henry discovers the Mimic and it realizes that it was still copying David even when he wasn’t at the factory. He decided to show it to William while he is preparing for David to become his adopted son. William is fascinated by the machine and states they’ll try to replicated it for their new animatronics.

After few more months, David is officially a Afton and moves in

Hopefully, everything will be better now that he is a new family and Mimic is still with him?

Right?

Note: In this AU, the Crying Child’s name is Evan so it wouldn’t be confusing for David.

Reblog>Likes

[digitalisnarcissus]

Fascinating how we've come so far down this pipeline that people in the notes can take this at face value. There's probably some boomer working for the NY or London Times upset they didn't get there first to be fair. Because the Times in the picture is in fact, Irish, and they are having a laugh.

Patrick here has dumped a massive bucket of mixed bait into the water, giggling as he imagines what fish will take it, and honestly he's been done a disservice that this is the only thing he's catching. It's a brilliantly done article, and should be sent to every Star Wars friend to wind them up deliciously. Here's the opening paragraph for tone:

“War, huh, yeah, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing,” Edwin Starr sang back in 1970, as a retort to those who believed war was good for the creation of worldwide American hegemony. (I believe Henry Kissinger produced a pop single with this as the hook line.) Listening to Edwin on the radio in 1970 was the little-known film-maker and beard aficionado George Lucas. “This ‘war’ of which Mr ‘Starr’ sings intrigues me!” he cried. “It seems to be some sort of a ‘Starr War’, and what is it good for? Franchise potential, spin-offs and merchandising, a hubba-hubba, arooga, ka-ching etc.”

archive link too if you're out of clicks.

It's true. I've never watched Star Wars and I have 8 houses

[rajasthantourtaxi2]

Delhi Sightseeing Tour By Rajasthan Tour Taxi Company

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Jama Mosque Go visit Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, which is renowned for its magnificent architecture and amazing courtyard, after that. For sweeping views of the busy streets of Old Delhi, visitors can ascend the minarets.

Ride in a Rickshaw in Chandni Chowk Take a classic cycle rickshaw ride to see the colorful energy of Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi's busiest and oldest markets. Discover tiny streets brimming with jewelry shops, spice shops, and street food vendors selling regional specialties.

Day 3: Highlights of New Delhi Discover New Delhi by beginning with a trip to India Gate, a tribute to Indian troops who lost their lives in World War I. Visitors are welcome to roam about the famous building and take in the verdant lawns.

Drive by Parliament House, which was created by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the Lutyens' Delhi architectural style, and the towering Rashtrapati Bhavan, which serves as the official house of the President of India.

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ALSO READ

Born in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, on May 18, 1946, as Reginald Martinez Jackson, Reggie Jackson is a renowned former professional baseball player. His distinguished Major League Baseball (MLB) career, which he spent mostly with the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees, is what made him most famous.

Known by his nickname "Mr. October," Jackson rose to prominence in postseason play, especially during the World Series, for his clutch efforts. He was a notable player in the 1970s and 1980s, a time noted for its competitive baseball and legendary players, thanks to his strong hitting and captivating demeanor.

In 1967, Jackson signed a Major League Baseball contract with the Kansas City/Oakland Athletics, where he rapidly made a name for himself as a strong outfielder and power hitter. In 1973, he was named the World Series MVP. He was a key player in the Athletics' three straight World Series victories from 1972 to 1974.

As a free agent, Reggie Jackson joined the New York Yankees in 1976, where he remained one of the game's best sluggers. When Jackson blasted three home runs in a single game in the series-clinching Game 6 of the 1977 World Series, he cemented his reputation as "Mr. October" and won another World Series. This marked the end of Jackson's Yankees career.

Jackson was well-known for his remarkable career numbers, which included 563 home runs, several All-Star selections, and 1993 entrance into the Baseball Hall of Fame. He is still regarded as a respected member of the baseball community despite his on-field achievements because of his magnetic presence and influence on the game.

Following his retirement, Reggie Jackson has worked in baseball in a variety of roles, such as broadcasting, coaching, and philanthropy. Generations of baseball fans and aspiring sportsmen are still motivated by his reputation as a Hall of Fame player and World Series hero.

Reggie Jackson is remembered by baseball fans for his accomplishments, standout moments, and long-lasting influence on the league.

[majorlb]

#ok I'm a little obsessed with this AU honestly #first and foremost Niko as a drummer is a bespoke choice no notes #but also #imagine the string for string solidarity those two would have #Edwin tunes Charles's guitar for him when they're in a pinch #Charles tries to tune his violin exactly once and it makes That Noise like its about to snap in half and he never touches those pegs again #(he would be scared by the amount of force needed also Imao) #Meanwhile Edwin offers to pick up some strings for charles and spends the next 3 days researching all those confusing specs #he's also absolutely APPALED by the number of random objects Charles tries to use as picks "for a new sound' #(just admit you forgot to bring your pick baggy) #speaking of they've dated for like a week and Edwin starts finding guitar picks EVERYWHERE in his flat #they just spawn #there also is a wild goose chase at some point bc they somehow both forgot to bring a nail file on a trip #(it ends with crystal handing them one while hardcore juding them for not jus... asking) #also also I think Edwin would have amazing technique but would never be fully satisfied with his improvisational skills #he always feels like he's just copying smth he's played before #meanwhile Charles has probably never played a song the same way twice #and like #the way they would start influencing each other #Charles sarts using more complex operatic harmonies #Edwin discovers his love of bold percussivos and down strokes @smollsmule you get it

you get the vision 💕😭

Charles never plays the song the same way twice, mostly because he learned by playing by ear (learning by doing) and he gets so lost in the music that he simply let's the mood take him where it goes. It never fails to make the crowd go wild, and also their shows are never predictable because you could go to every single show and never hear a song the same way again. But it always RULES. He does learn how to read sheet music, out of pure necessity for the bands sake. but boy does he hate it.

Edwin thinks sheet music is fun and amused by Charles complaining.

They both approach music so vastly differently and are fascinated by the other.

Edwin who invites Charles to his own performance with orchestra. And at first, he doesn't think Charles will show up, but there he is, whole band with him, giving him enthusiastic thumbs up and standing ovations when it's done.

"What? I'm a music enthusiast"

"You're also enthusiastic about Edwin"

"Two things can be true"

Also Edwin sleeping in metal band t-shirt.

And yes, as soon as they start dating, guitar picks just find their way into every nook and cranny of Edwins apartment. And his violincase. And his SHOE one time.

I'm not done apparently-

Edwin in his little sweaters and pressed collar shirts standing on the side of the stage (he can't be in the audience, the bands crowds are known for their enthusiastic circle pits) and people who follow the band starts to notice him.

Who is this fancy young man? A manager? He's certainly new, but the old manager is still around.

He's in the background of so many pictures, and sometimes in the forefront with Charles arm around his shoulders.

They start hearing violin on the albums, but no one is ever credited (Edwin doesn't want his name on metal music, at least not in the beginning)

But the fans figure out its probably him, because once he showed up later in the show with a violin case, still standing on the side, never on stage, never playing live.

But its not until a fan straight up asks in the commentsection, "Who's the fancy one?" that they get the response "Edwin is Charles boyfriend" To which the band both lose and gain fans.

"We make music criticizing the state of the world and how capitalism and war tears humanity apart! What do you mean we 'went woke' by Charles having a boyfriend?!" writes Niko, the drummer, on Twitter.

Crystal is being physically restrained to stop her from doxxing people

[mimisempai]

 I don’t want to hide what you mean to me

Summary

During Hob's first visit to The Dreaming, provoked by Matthew with the help of Lucienne, Dream reveals the depth of his feelings for him.

Notes:

I have no idea if this is possible, so if not, imagine it's Hob's dream, but I love the possibility of them all interacting together. I hope you’ll enjoy it !

On Ao3

Rating T - 1216 words

"Boss, if you could take your eyes off your human for a moment and listen to what I have to say."

Dream turned his head to the raven on his shoulder, looking perfectly innocent, though inwardly annoyed because he knew exactly what Matthew was referring to.

"I have no idea what you're talking about, you chatty bird!"

Matthew croaked and didn't respond, as the answer was obvious from his perspective.

This was the first time Hob had ever set foot in the Dreaming and from the moment he had set foot in the library, Dream had lost him.

He was currently chatting with Lucienne in an animated way under Dream's gaze, secretly happy to see him becoming part of his world in this way.

This gossiping raven had been totally right, he was fascinated by his human.

Hob walked towards them under Lucienne's amused gaze and once in front of them, he said: "This is so exciting! All these books that are not finished in reality but dreamed by their authors. Lucienne told me that over there was the finished version of Dickens' The Mystery of Edwin Drood, so I'll just take a look at it and come back." 

He brushed Dream's shoulder with his hand as he passed and Dream followed him with his eyes, also with an amused look. Although he was fully aware that another scrutinizing look was staring at him, he tried to ignore it completely. 

But that was without counting on the sharp tongue of this bird of ill omen.

"Boss, if I may say so, you are literally drooling."

Reflexively, Dream wiped his mouth and then realizing he had just been fooled, he turned his head to Matthew and scolded him, "Matthew, if you keep this up, I promise you'll end up in the catalog of the most beautiful stuffed animals!"

Matthew had another little sarcastic croak before replying, "If I may, I'd like to ask you a question, one that intrigues me. What is it about a poor human like this that fascinates you so much?"

Dream, that the idea of stuffing Matthew attracted more and more, tried to control himself to answer him. But, offended on Hob's behalf, he couldn't help but answer in a passionate tone, a vindictive gleam in his eyes, "Hob is simply beyond belief! And you, as a former human, should realize that. He has accepted and continues to accept what life throws at him, he has probably experienced more lows than highs and yet he has never given up. He has incredible faith in life and even when it sends him things that would be unbearable for anyone else, when he could have the choice to stop everything, he has this incredible faith and hope that life still has so much to offer him."

He was interrupted by a small laugh, this time from Lucienne. When he looked at her, he saw that she winked at Matthew who flew off Dream's shoulder.

Dream looked at them in turn with a suspicious expression, "Hmph! Don't tell me that..."

Lucienne looked at him with a knowing smile before replying, "Let's just say it's nice to see when you're honest with your feelings, Sir but..." her face turned serious again as she continued, "If I may, don't forget that he's not perfect either, don't put him on a pedestal. It wouldn't be good for either you or him."

Dream appreciated Lucienne's concern. He deeply respected her judgment and she was probably one of the people who knew him best, even if he would never tell her.

He replied in the same serious tone, determined to convince her, "Oh, I know he's not perfect, I've witnessed his bad, sometimes very bad choices, but I've also witnessed everything he's done to become better and to fix his mistakes as best he could. I know that some choices still haunt him now. But he is genuine to the core, at least with me, because he is not afraid to show me his imperfections. Everything, his failures, his mistakes, his fears, his demons, he showed me without me having to search or enter his mind.  In fact, he is perfectly imperfect. Perfect for me in that sense."

Lucienne nodded before replying, "Thank you for your honesty, sir and forgive me if I overstepped my bounds."

Dream shook his head and said softly, "No, you don't have to apologize, thank you for caring about me and him. It took me a long time to realize it and I'm sorry, but I know now that you care. Thank you again."

At Matthew's caw, he looked up at the raven and called out, "You too, cheeky bird!"

Lucienne chuckled and said softly, "The Lord of Dreams has a heart and he's showing it, that would make a great book title for this library."

Dream shrugged because he knew it wasn't worth protesting, and for once, he didn't feel like it either.

But he said with a slight smile on his lips, "It's like that, it brings out the best in me." He paused and added with a falsely threatening look, "If you tell anyone I said that, I will deny it."

Lucienne smiled and replied with a mischievous tone, "I'll take it to my grave."

Turning to resume her work, she added, "I'm happy for you, sir Really." 

They nodded in mutual appreciation, then Lucienne walked away to the back of the library, followed by Matthew hovering over her as Dream followed them with his eyes.

"So... I'm not perfect?"

Two hands came to rest on his shoulders and slid down his chest.

"Hob!" Dream froze slightly, "Don't tell me you've..."

"...Heard everything?" completed Hob before answering himself, "Yes, I heard everything perfectly, from 'amazing' to 'perfect for you', I don't think I missed anything."

Dream couldn't see it, but he could hear in his voice that Hob was smiling.

"All right..." Dream couldn't help but blush slightly, he had gotten carried away defending Hob and didn't remember everything he had said, but enough to be a little embarrassed.

Hob kissed him on the neck and whispered, "Don't be embarrassed, it's kind of nice to hear you compliment me, although Matthew will be quick to tell Mervyn who will tell everyone and in a not at all subtle way. Everyone here is going to know that the Lord of Dreams is a softee, are you aware of that?"

Dream grunted as he imagined the gossip.

Then he turned into Hob's arms and saw that he was looking at him and smiling affectionately.

Hobs whispered, "Hi handsome..." then he raised his hand to brush Dream's cheek with his knuckles and continued, "Anyway, thank you for sticking up for me so fiercely."

Dream took his hand in his and replied softly, "I meant everything I said. Each word." 

Hob was too close to hide the embarrassment but also the pleasure his lover's praise had given him so Dream leaned in and gently pressed his lips to Hob's in a long, deep kiss. 

Before he let himself be carried away by the sweet passion of the moment, Dream told himself that he didn't care if his entire kingdom thought he was a sap, if it was to have Hob look at him like that every time.

_________

Still not beta'd

Still not my native language

Still hoping you'll enjoy this story  🥰

Still thanking you for bearing with me 😝

Dreamling Masterlist here