#I've only known them this first episode but I'll protect them with my life

[fluffs-n-stuffs]

anyways I'd die for them your honor

[wordsinhaled]

hope y'all are ready for another unhinged merlin post, friends

okay, because we always talk about how much merlin does to help and save arthur, and how drawn he is to him. but can we talk about how from the very beginning arthur has been indignant and ready to put himself in harm's way at the thought of harm coming to merlin??? i am at the beginning of my rewatch so i'm focusing mostly on the early eps, so -

in the THIRD episode, when merlin tries to turn himself in as a sorcerer - arthur (visibly distressed) covers for him immediately - not just because he thinks merlin couldn't possibly have magic, but because he knows merlin will be killed in gwen's stead

in the FOURTH episode - he'd rather drink from the poisoned chalice himself than have merlin drink it - an unheard of level of risk for someone to take for their manservant in camelot's society

like??? can we talk about how arthur's first thought the moment merlin is poisoned is, "sounds like fun, i'll brave a journey that'll put me in mortal peril for someone i've only known for a few months, at the longest"? can we talk about how he disobeys uther directly and sets out on his own, knowing that it could end to his own death? can we talk about how he and merlin are fucking psychically connected?

can we talk about how their interwoven destiny is known and used against both of them from the very beginning???

i want to talk too about uther's complete lack of understanding of how important merlin is to arthur. he just doesn't understand why arthur is so distressed, why he's willing to risk his life, why he's willing to sacrifice himself to save merlin. and arthur says it's because that's not the kind of king he would want to be. he says it's because he wants to be the kind of ruler who wouldn't discount a "mere" servant's life. he says that merlin saved his life, so of course he'd want to do the same for him. and of course, this is true - arthur is noble, and good-hearted, and he does the right thing even when it contravenes what his father would do or wants him to do

but like... there's the part where he genuinely cares for merlin, specifically - not just for a life debt owed, not just on the principle that a servant's life is equal to a lord's or a king's. merlin, specifically. it can be seen in the way he immediately rushes to protect merlin or to deflect attention away from him whenever merlin makes a scene in public at court that puts him at risk. in his visible worry when merlin drinks from the poisoned chalice. in the way he rushes to merlin's side after he collapses, and frets over him while gaius checks him over

and most of all (in this particular episode), it can be seen during the scene at the end - the scene shot over merlin's shoulder, where you see arthur entering gaius' chambers from behind merlin - and the relief that fills his face when he sees that merlin is up and eating, that's not prince arthur, or obnoxious lordling arthur; that's just arthur at his most genuine, with no posturing, when no one is paying attention to him. the way he takes a second before he schools himself to start up his usual banter with merlin, playing the taskmaster prince again, minimizing the risk he took for merlin's sake. but the way that persona falls again, and he tells merlin that he came to see if he was alright. tells merlin to get some rest

it's about merlin, specifically, and what he has come to mean to arthur. not just the life of any manservant, but merlin's life, merlin's importance to him

i also have a broader tangent about the relationship between uther and arthur & uther + homophobia, and how arthur's dynamic with merlin plays into it. "he's just a boy," uther tells morgana in this episode, and she counters, "have you seen your son lately?" and i think the trouble is uther has seen arthur lately, and he's not comfortable with what he sees. he doesn't understand arthur's closeness and attachment to merlin, and i'd argue that he's noticing his son's queerness and trying to stamp it out of him/trying to denial his way out of dealing with it directly. uther fits the mold of the toxically masculine/authoritarian father who sees the queerness in his child and responds by becoming even more cruelly authoritarian

as for arthur - arthur's been told since birth that he's crown prince, that he'll need to rule camelot, and produce his own heir to continue the line of camelot, and i would argue that arthur's need to prove himself, his bravado, his deep-seated need for his father's approval comes from the pressure also of knowing in his core that he doesn't measure up to what his father wants for him - he's kinder, yes, and more just - but also softer at heart, and queer in ways that aren't permitted for his time or station or for what he knows are his responsibilities as a future monarch. it comes to the fore whenever his connection to merlin hangs in the balance, when we're able to see arthur in unguarded moments when he can be his unadulterated self

i think we talk often about how merlin is drawn to arthur, and also i think it's very clear to see how merlin's magic is allegorical for queerness/closetedness, but my favorite to explore is how arthur gravitates towards merlin, and arthur's queerness, and it's especially apparent in these early episodes

and tl;dr basically merthur is WILD and i will never be normal about them even in the year of our lord 2023

[starseneyes]

Chenford REWIND - Lucy Chen / Tim Bradford - The Rookie - Season 3 Ep 1, 2 & 3

Season 3 has a totally different rhythm for Tim and Lucy. We're in the last month or so of Tim training Lucy show-wise, and they're definitely friends at this point. We can feel the natural rhythm they've built between them.

I really wanted to string these three episodes together because they're kind of one thought springing from Lucy's post-DOD trauma. I'll get into why once we're past the "Keep Reading" barrier.

SPOILER ALERT: I'm going to spoil these episodes and possibly everything that has come before. Yes, I spend a lot of time on Chenford, but there are also specific Lucy/Tim scenes I focus on because Chenford is nothing without these two separate, beautiful characters. I do try to write without too much foreknowledge of what comes after these episodes.

Are we all clear on what to expect here? Huzzah! Time to dive in.

Consequences

"Look, at the end of the day, we only think we know other people. I learned that the hard way."

Look, Tim's been burned. And burned. And burned. Almost everyone he has ever trusted let him down, shut him out, or manipulated him in some way.

His view may be jaded, but it's also informed by his own life experiences. The one time he really chose to trust was with Isabel... and that fell apart, too.

But Lucy knows Nolan. And she trusts her gut that Nolan is still the same guy today that he was before.

"Drive up to Chowchilla and retrieve the security footage from Nolan's meeting with Rosalind Dyer yesterday."

The second Rosalind's name hits his ears, Tim's eyes flash to Lucy, worry swimming in them as he gazes upon her. Lucy feels that shift as she looks up at him.

Tim's a tough guy, but he knows what it is to have to face the monsters down. He had to live with his. So, the last thing he wants to do is put Lucy in a position where she will be hurt, again.

"Sir, I'm not sure we're the right team for that assignment given Chen's history with Rosalind Dyer." "What assignment?" "He wants us to get the surveillance tape from Nolan's meeting with Rosalind yesterday." "What the hell was he doing meeting with Rosalind?"

It gives me special pleasure that they call Rosalind by her first name.

Back at my university, we had an unspoken rule in the Communications department. If you liked a professor, they were called by their last name in conversation outside of class. If you hated them, first name only.

And there was one teacher we all called by his first name. He was rude, condescending, misogynistic, tried to trick his students on tests, and hated me because I was the first person to ace one of his tests (and I did it on 2/3 that semester).

Demons don't deserve the courtesy of a last name. Rosalind absolutely qualifies.

"It's your call, Bradford. You're her TO. I trust your judgement." "Tim, it's not a problem."

Watch him watching her. Because when it comes to Lucy and this particular subject, he still questions his judgment. But he trusts hers.

She holds his gaze. "I can do this," it says. He finally agrees to the assignment.

"Now head back to the Shop while I get a statement from Rosalind." "What? No way." "It's for your own good."

They got this far, but Tim's still looking for ways to shield Lucy from this. And I doubt he'd do this for anyone else.

Look, we're nowhere near these two dancing the horizontal mambo on Lucy's too-rickety bed, but Tim has a special spot for Lucy by Season 3. It's not just because of DOD. It's because of everything they've been through.

Bit by bit, Lucy Chen has worn down Tim's walls, and he's let her in, bit by bit. Protecting her is just something he does, now.

"You have a personal connection." "So do you." "It's not the same."

Does she mean the case he worked? His connection in the search for Lucy? I've never quite known which she meant, because there are dozens of officers who worked Rosalind Dyer cases. I don't know if I'd call that "personal".

"If I can't handle talking to Rosalind while she's in a cage, I shouldn't be a cop."

And what can he say to that? The rational side agrees with her. But the side that wants nothing more than to protect her is screaming at him. And we all know which side TO Tim leans into. So, together they enter the lioness' den.

"You know, I am so impressed with you."

Rosalind barely acknowledges Tim once she locks onto Lucy Chen. It's been less than six months since Lucy's harrowing near-death experience at the hands of a practiced serial killer—a serial killer under the spell of the caged woman before her.

No, Rosalind wasn't the one placing her in that barrel. But it was her legacy, and Lucy Chen's defiant survival coupled with Caleb's death ended that legacy.

For Rosalind, Lucy will always be of special interest—the girl who refused to scream. Screams were the erotic fixation of the murderer, the source of his perverse pleasure. The panic that rose in the throats of his victims as they grappled with their impending death.

But Lucy Chen didn't scream. She sang. Lucy Chen didn't panic. She persevered. She lived.

"The way you handled what was obviously a very traumatic experience, it's inspiring." "Thanks. That means a lot coming from you." "Rawr. So defiant." "Let's stick to Nolan."

Tim's trying to keep things on track, and right now he's keeping himself in-check. Look, we know that Tim can turn it on the second he needs it—the energy that had him threatening a guy and slamming his head against a steering wheel.

But he's keeping it together because Lucy is keeping it together. He's feeding off of her energy. And much as this sucks, we all know Lucy can keep her head in the game.

"Just like you were when the lid came down on that barrel. You know, it must have driven Caleb crazy, denying him the fear that he desperately wanted to see in you." "How-" "Do I know that? You think the camera in the barrel was for Caleb?"

In the words of Malcolm Bright from Prodigal Son, "I have so many questions". Now, some of them are answered in this episode (secret phone in the wall), but I'm surprised neither of them questioned how she saw that video.

"Don't listen to her, Chen."

Tim's keeping it professional and clean. He's also trying not to show his hand.

Calling Lucy "Chen" at this point is a way to distance or maintain order. He calls her "Lucy" often enough, now, that we can tell it's a choice to call her Chen.

And the last thing you want to do is give a serial killer who loves mind games any hints about how you feel about anything or anyone. Emotions can get you killed.

"She's just playing mind games." "Oh, I am totally playing mind games. But I'm not lying."

She starts singing the song. Lucy's song. The one she sang to keep herself calm in the barrel. And it's a beautiful song that I've loved for years. But for Lucy it can never be just a beautiful song, again.

I have a song that I listen to whenever I'm feeling broken. Inner Light by Jay Chattaway. Listening to that song, I'm transported to every moment I've listened to it over the years... or when I hummed it for strength. And I simultaneously feel all the strength I've drawn from the clear call of the flute to the rising and falling strings.

Music is powerful. It can bond us to people and moments. And in the cold, grey room... the verse of a familiar song slices through Lucy's control and strength. She's literally back in that barrel, feeling all those feelings, again.

And that's too much for Tim.

"Knock it off."

He barks it, the veil of formality torn as the truth he's tried to conceal bursts forth—Lucy matters to Tim.

Not like a TO and Rookie, or even just friends, but as two people whose lives are enriched by the other in a way nobody else can touch. Not yet love, but soulmates, nonetheless.

Rosalind's attention has been locked on Lucy since the beginning of the conversation, but with three words, the monster shifts her gaze. She looks between the two of them, connecting the dots swiftly. There's a connection, here. There's something to exploit, here.

Tim just handed the monster a modicum of power, but he had to do it to break her spell over Lucy.

"Ah, the fierce protector."

Yes, he is. He didn't ask for it. He didn't go looking for it. But he was always a little protective of her (remember how he snatched Caleb's number away?), but it only intensified after DOD.

Lucy has seen Tim at his absolute worst, his most broken. And she didn't run away. She didn't give up on him. And he sure as hell isn't giving upon her. Not ever.

"We're done here. Let's go."

You can hear the emotion in his voice even though we're looking at Lucy on the screen. Lucy has tears in her eyes, and Rosalind put them there. The one thing Tim was worrying about happening happened and he didn't protect Lucy enough.

Lucy is right. She's a cop and she should be able to deal with a criminal in a cage. But Tim was also right. Lucy shouldn't have to be re-traumatized for a job.

Nyla often says that the job isn't worth your life. I don't think it's worth Lucy's peace of mind, either.

Tim glances back at Rosalind with contempt as he opens the door for Lucy. Oh, he hates that bitch. Me, too, Tim. Me, too.

"You were wrong earlier." "About anything in particular? Or just in a global sense."

First off, I want to talk about the growth here. He's willing to entertain the idea that he's wrong about something. TO Tim of Season 1 would have told her off, and Season 2 would have given her a glare. But Season 3-era TO Tim is willing to hear her out, and even asks to know where he went wrong.

Second, is Tim Bradford coming off a little flirty!? Season 3 is definitely the era of Lucy no longer fearing Tim and instead flirting with him. This feels like Tim's flirting a bit back and I kinda love it.

Let's be clear, this is harmless flirting at this point. They aren't flirting because they want to sneak into the back of the Shop and add their body fluids to the seat's history.

"You said 'at the end of the day we only think we know other people', but you're wrong." "Lucy-"

With no Rosalind, we're back to Lucy.

"No. When I was in that barrel, I knew you would find me. No matter what it took."

She. Knows. Him. And, damnit, he can't say she's wrong that she knew he'd try.

But even he didn't know he'd succeed. He didn't know he'd find her. In fact, he was terrified many times that day that he'd failed.

Lucy's the one with the steadfast faith. She believed that he would be okay in the Quarantine House, and she believed he would find her in the barrel. Her faith in him is so strange and magical considering what an ass he can be. It baffles him, sometimes, as much as it amazes.

"I found you because of your ring. Okay? You saved yourself. And I really hope what happened with Rosalind today doesn't screw with your head." "If it does, I'll deal with it."

Their secret. The truth that nobody knows but them. And I love that Tim credits her as much as it pains me that he refuses to credit himself. Because he still sees his perceived failing for her the night before, how he missed the signs that weren't there to tell him Caleb was a murderous psychopath.

Yes, it was a team effort to rescue her, but Tim was a huge part of it. And Lucy knew he would put everything he had into saving her.

As for the rest, he nods at her last statement that she'll deal with it. That works for him.

"And I know you'll help me."

Because. She. Knows. Him. So many times he's protested it when people point out the good in him. It's easier to keep up walls, to shield himself, to lock people out.

But Lucy's always been able to see through that. she knows who he is behind all that hurt. And that's what's truly terrifying about her, for him. Lucy has seen the worst of him, the worst year of his life. But she still sees who he really is, even when he can't see it himself.

"Uh, that's not really part of my job description." "MMhmm."

Look at that look she throws over her shoulder at him. That knowing look. Yowza, Lucy Chen has your number, Tim Bradford. You better watch yourself!

In Justice

"When you graduate. You have to celebrate. No more Tim Tests? Come on." "He's been quiet lately... Too quiet... He's planning something."

First off, I love the way these three help each other. The original OT3 of the show, it was great to see them come up together, not only as Rookies, but as people.

Second, Melissa O'Neil's read on that line had me rolling, and I love to rewatch it just for her facial expressions. Lucy thinks Tim's planning something, but I think Tim's giving Lucy a little space after the Rosalind thing.

His instincts were to keep them off that assignment, but they went because she thought she could handle it. Instead, it was stressful for both of them.

Tim stepped in to protect her, and every time he does that, I feel like he pulls back just a little to keep himself from feeling like he's crossed some invisible line.

Again, we're not at the tear-your-clothes-off-with-my-teeth stage (yet) with these two. This isn't a romantic line. It's a personal boundary that Tim keeps in place between himself and his Rookies. Usually, it's very easy to keep in place. But Lucy challenges him in ways he never imagined.

Funny enough, he does the same for her. So, much as she's eager to move past Tim Tests, I don't think she's as eager to move on from Tim.

"Why is roll call in the parking lot?" "It was all in the departmental email." "You actually read those?" "Chen does."

And your wife boot's going to be sure you stay on top of things and look good. Look, the best relationships are where two people fill in each other's weaknesses. Tim and Lucy have that in abundance.

"We need to rededicate ourselves to doing this job the right way, which means the last 25 days of your training are gonna be even more intense." "We should check the chop shops, see if anyone brought my car in." "That's what you're focused on? Even as parts your car is worthless." "Not to me."

Tim likes to tell Lucy how "intense" things are going to be. Before, it was almost to terrify her, but now it feels like a warning.

He doesn't want to scare the Rookie off anymore (Lucy isn't afraid of him anymore). He wants to prepare her so she can do her best work.

But Lucy's thoughts aren't even in that Shop. Her thoughts are on a barely-driving tin can that matters. And God bless Tim, but to him things are things. Break the thing and buy another thing.

But things aren't just things to Lucy. If you look around Lucy's place compared to Tim's, you can see the little baubles and bits that mean so much to Lucy. Tim's life is so much grey and beige.

He needs someone like Lucy to bring the color back as much as she needs someone with the structure to help her organize her thoughts. But we're not to the point, yet, where Tim and Lucy can be each other's person.

Right now, they're still learning to speak one another's language.

"Let the hunk of junk go and focus on the end of your training."

He's not trying to be insensitive. He simply doesn't understand.

"Is that what you would do? Let someone get away with stealing the thing that means the most to you? The one constant for the last 10 years?"

Roughly 10 years ago, she moved out of her parents' place. So, we're talking about her whole adult life.

And, weirdly, I just realized I've known Matthew my whole adult life because we met when I was 18. Crazy.

"It's a car." "It's the only place-. Never mind."

Tim could let this go. He could. But he knows Lucy, now. They've had almost a year together, and he can tell when something's really bothering her.

"The only place what?"

I love him being the one to draw this out. Yes, we've seen him pull things out of her before, but this is different. This isn't the harsh bark of "Boot!" when she didn't want to tell him about his learning disability. This is softer. Caring. Gentle.

Tim doesn't drop into this tone that often, so when he does, it really stands out. His inflection on "what?" is leading her, asking her to elaborate, but not demanding it. It's a request. It's a hope. He needs to know why this matters so much to her.

"Where I felt safe... after Caleb."

She can't even look at him. I mean, this is the guy who considers air conditioning a weakness. Stuff is stuff. She expects that he still won't get it.

But he does.

"There's a chop shop on Melrose. We'll start there."

Watch her react. She was hoping he'd help her with this today, but a part of her was ready to be disappointed. She's relieved. Even if they don't find it, Tim is going to help her. He's going to be there for her. And that's what she needs.

Because these three episodes are really strung together by Lucy's trauma and struggles post-DOD. You might think, "Rachel, huh?! That was sooo last season."

But 3x01 taps into Lucy's trauma with Rosalind. In 3x02 she loses her safe place, which is no doubt where she went as soon as she and Tim talked last week, and now it's gone. We'll get into 3x03 later, but right now, Lucy is in that "I know you'll help me" phase, and she. was. right.

Timmy, it might not be your job, but you're doing it anyway.

"Really? A Tim Test right now?"

Damn straight. If you've got him chasing the Tangerine Wonder all across town all day, he's gotta work in his stuff in-between.

"Does this mean you're not up to the challenge?" "No, sir, I am game for whatever you want to throw at me."

Her smile and defiance on that is borderline flirty. And I approve. Flirt on, little sister. This is the era of Lucy Chen charming Tim Bradford, a bit, and I'll take it!

"Back up. I got this."

He holds his hand out toward her as though conceding and getting the hell out of her way. We're a long way from the Tim Tests of old. This one actually feels instructive and almost... fun.

Stressful, yes. But the point system's rather cute.

"Calm, plus leaving, plus an apology. I crushed this test."

Hell, yeah, you did! And she did it with the compassion and kindness that she walked in the door with.

What I really love about this whole thing is Lucy's confidence. She has come so far from that frightened Rookie at the beginning. Yes, she is still a Rookie by the show's measurements, but there's a hell of a lot less "Boot" coming from Tim these days.

"Nice recovery." "MMhmm."

Because she knows he can't compliment her. But, that's close enough. She knows he's proud.

And she is proud of herself, damnit! Lucy loves being a cop, but she hasn't really found support for it at home.

For a while, Lucy looked to Tim for approval. I think she still likes when he actually compliments her, or says nice things, but I think she's stopped looking for his approval and has instead accepted her own. Lucy is proud of Lucy. And that feels good.

"You still go to school? Yeah, I do, and I get good grades. Anymore dumb questions?"

Oh, I like her. She talks a litlte like Tim but has the sentimentality of Lucy.

Straight up, when people told me I should get into Chenford, I thought, "I don't have time for a show like this". I don't. I don't have time to be invested in another show on a weekly basis. I tend to do one a year.

Why? Because our lives are just that chaotic. But, I watched a few clips of the show, and I saw this relationship right here between Tamara and Lucy... and it was what grabbed me first.

So, in a weird way, if you're a fan of these Metas, you have Tamara to thank.

"Is she for real?" "Officer Chen, a word."

You better put some respect on my girl's name. Two seconds ago, it was "Boot", but she talked right over him. So, he's showing her a little respect, and now she's ready to listen to what he has to say.

"Honestly, I'm surprised it took you so long." "Did you have a puppy?" "That's... not relevant here." "Mmhmm."

Wait... that's... that's it!? I wanna hear Tim's story! I love Tim stories... especially stories that help illuminate why he is the way he is.

It's not that Tim thinks he's so special that if things don't work out for him, they can't work out for others. It's that he's been burned so many times, he can't even think past his own experiences to imagine a better world.

He's not narcissistic, constantly pointing his gaze inward. He's looking out, but the blocks of his own fears, insecurities, and heartaches have created a wall between him and the possibility of something else.

"Well, she's not a puppy. She's a girl in trouble, and I'm gonna help her, okay?"

He gives her a little smile, there, that disappears as soon as she looks away. It's not his placating smile. It's not his "kill me now" smile. It's not his real smile... but it feels sincere in the moment. Almost like he appreciates her making this decision even if he thinks it's a bad one.

Again, Lucy is showing a lot of confidence in her choices and decisions, right now. She's not asking for Tim's permission to do what she thinks is right, and so long as it's within the law, Tim's good with that.

"I'm gonna give you my car." "What?" "Just until you get back on your feet. You know, I know it doesn't run great. But it took me to college, it saw me through three really bad relationships, and it kept me sane after... well, after I almost died."

In the aftermath of the horrors she endured, no place felt right. No place felt safe. Lucy settled back into her life, but there were no constants.

Her car had been her sanctuary when she's wept over relationships gone bad. It'd been her celebration spot to blast her music and sing at the top of her lungs. It was her quiet place where she could ride past the beach with the windows down, just soaking in the sand of salt and sand.

It was something that was hers that nobody had taken away. When she thought she'd lost it, she was heartbroken. But then she met someone who right now needs "safe" more.

Look, I'm not saying we ever heal fully from trauma. But, I believe we find ways to move past it, bit by bit. And Lucy releasing her car is huge.

Lucy will get a new car for the first time in her adult life. That car will have a new smell, new look, and new feel. But, she isn't afraid of it. She's no longer clinging to her old car to feel "safe".

And Lucy is making this change in her timing and on her terms. Yes, I think Tamara stealing the car gave her the push, but Lucy has no trepidation as she hands over the key.

Lucy is reclaiming her peace, bit by bit. And she's reminding us who she is—someone who loves others even when they don't think of themselves as lovable. Lucy sees the good. More than that, she draws it out.

It's the Lucy Effect. And I love it.

"Look, I hear he's a solid cop. Learn what's useful and ignore the rest."

This is the same attitude Tim was giving Lucy earlier with the car. He's trying to give what he thinks is practical advice to get through the situation. He's missing the point. He's playing to the old-school attitude of ignoring the bad apples, because it's not worth the effort to try to fix them.

But those people are still on the streets representing the badge. And Tim's not thinking big picture. It's not his strong suit. But it is his blind spot, and he needs someone to help him realize it.

Just because a guy's not out here dropping the "n" word doesn't mean he isn't racist. And racism is so ingrained in our society that it's accepted as inevitable when it shouldn't be.

Alright, I'm gonna get off my soapbox before this Meta takes a turn.

Tim absolutely has the wrong perspective on this. But he won't be able to shift it without some help from someone who sees clearly.

"If you quote me on that to Chen I'll deny it."

Jackson smirks a little at that, despite how dire the situation is. Because Tim isn't his TO, he can say things like this to Jackson. But, he doesn't need Lucy knowing she can ignore him on anything. After all, he holds her fate in his hands.

La Fiera

"Is it possible Tim Bradford is having performance anxiety? There are pills for that, you know." "Look, I've come in second behind Lopez the last four years. Now that Annie Oakley's with the detectives, I got the patrol crown in the bag." "Oh, there's only one problem with that. Me."

These two really do have a great chemistry and an easy trust. This isn't romantic relationship level, but definitely a solid friendship in the making.

Also, nice way to sneak in that exposition so we know what's on the docket for today. Firearms. Competition. And Egos.

"Care to make it interesting? 20 bucks if your Boot makes it out on top?" "I'll take that bet."

I love how he looks at her when he says it. He has full confidence in Lucy being best of the Boots. After all, he trained her, right?

"So, finishing first with the most hits, fastest time, and tightest grouping... Officer Chen."

That's My Bestie!! She is so proud of herself for being first. Above the other Rookies. Above the other Officers. Above all of them. Lucy is a badass.

Tim's right behind her, so we get to see his face as he soaks it in that, welp, he didn't come in first, even with Lopez out of the way. But, hell yeah, his girl came out on top (and Tim likes her on top).

Not only did she come out on top of the Rookies, but she smoked them all. He's a little surprised to have lost out to her (watch his face), but he recovers fast.

And I wish we had an angle on Lucy's face as he thanks the others for their money... because he bet on her.

"Uh, Bradford, Harper, you both tied for second." "I don't know what I hate more—tying for second with you or losing to a Rookie."

Lucy is smiling. She's so damn proud. And Tim actually smiles his pressed-lip smile over her shoulder as he looks down at her. Because, "Yeah, Harper. Same."

"The car is officially yours."

This blew me away. Because, she is signing over the car for good. Yes, she believes she'll see it, again, but she still lets go of it in writing. Good for her!

"How's the puppy?" "She's doing really great. Oh, she told me to tell you, uh, better luck next time at the range." "Get changed." "Yes sir."

The heat. I am living for Flirty Lucy in Season 3. Because this is so. damn. flirty.

She's not afraid of Tim anymore. And because of that, she can tease him, now. And Tim's softened toward Lucy, so he's not going to snap at her. They've eased into this Grumpy/Sunshine trope, and it's freakin' adorable on them.

No matter how "happy" Tim is in life, he's always going to have a bit of the set-in-his-ways grump about him. It's just a part of who he is. And Lucy's always going to have that ball-of-energy/sunlight glow.

They will always be who they are—they're simply helping one another find the best of themselves throughout their relationship.

"Mid-Wilshire Shooting Champ! I like the sound of that. Wait, do I get a trophy? I love trophies." "Relax. You had a few good shots."

Lucy is riding high, sure, but she also doesn't know how badly he wanted to come out of on top. Sorry, Timmy, my boy. Lucy topped you.

I'm sorry. These lines are just writing themselves.

"Come on! I rocked it! Don't be salty just because you got second place. Plus, you won 40 bucks. I should get a cut of that." "Not happening. But as your TO, your successes are my successes. So you should be thanking me for training you so well." "Wow."

Want me to cook up some steamed veggies so you have somewhere to put all that salt, Tim? Because, my man, you are jealous of your Boot.

"You gotta be kidding." "Bad puppy."

I'll admit, I laughed aloud at that one. I'm not the biggest fan of Tim's "Puppy" moniker, but this application was funny.

"I'm arresting all of them..." "What are you doing here? There are cameras all around. You nabbed an innocent man. The D.A. won't file."

Tim's heard Stanton's a good cop, so he's trying to talk to him like a good cop. He's trying to reason with him like a reasonable man—but that's not Stanton.

"These people don't respect authority." "You grabbed the wrong guy." "You're senior officer. It's your call."

And you can be damn sure Tim Bradford will make the right one, ass-wipe. Stanton is trying to appear reasonable, hoping Tim will be his version of reasonable—see it his way.

But Tim's a good person in his bones. Yes, he has a long way to go with his biases and his own blind spots—but he is willing to learn. He's willing to self-improve. He's willing to try to do better.

Stanton's one white sheet away from completing his asshole attire.

"And now you're gonna kiss their ass?" "It's called the least we can do."

Boom. Suck it, Stanton.

"Really? No comment. None at all?"

Lucy is past being afraid of Tim, and right now, she's aghast. Sure, Tim did what he could to clean up Stanton's mess. But that's not good enough.

Stanton paints the picture of one type of cop. Tim paints another. While Stanton is the blatant racist with a chip on his shoulder, guys like Tim exist, too. The ones who are complicit, who don't say anything to avoid ruffling feathers, who let things slide to keep the peace.

Until both are addressed, nothing will change. And that's the truth.

"Look, he's not my favorite cop, either, especially after he handled that family." "You mean the way he terrorized them." "Look, I've been around guys like Doug my entire career, military and police. They're rough around the edges." "'Rough around the edges', 'old-school', 'hard-charging'. Come on, man, Stanton is a racist."

Lucy Chen calling it like it is.

"You don't know that for sure." "Uh, yeah, actually I do. But, you're right. Let's just make excuses for him."

That gets Tim's attention. It's such a brief flash cross his face, but the first time I watched it, I could see that she got through. Because Tim is willing to learn, but he needs someone with patience to teach him.

Lucy breaks through Tim's defenses. He would never admit it, at this point, but it's true. They are friends, now, and she holds a special spot for Tim, even if it's not (yet) romantic.

"Bradford, we're in the middle of something, so-" "I-I think I know what it's about. Look, whatever Officer West is telling you, I stand with him."

That's my boy. Yes, Tim is a few years older than I am, but I feel maternal right now, okay!? Tim spied the conversation through the glass, and knowing that a Rookie might not be taken seriously, he threw in his word as Senior Officer.

And that got Grey's attention.

"Look I know you're pissed-" "Why aren't you?" "I am. It's just, I've been making excuses for pricks like Stanton my entire life, figured there was no changing them, so I'd let it go. I gave them a pass."

"excuses". Lucy's word. The word that got through.

"It wasn't a pass. You gave them permission. Silence is complicity, sir." "Yeah, I get that, now."

Jackson is keeping it professional with Tim, and I applaud him for that. There's a lot of emotions, here. And it sucks that Tim got this far in life without taking a stand. But, I'm glad he did.

"Look, I don't trust people who are nice to me." "I get it... trust is something that needs to be earned not bought. So, how can I earn trust with you?"

Oooh, I feel this in my bones. As a kid, any time someone was nice to me it was so they could screw with me. I was once invited to go to the roller rink with some kids. But it wasn't sincere. They had planned to stand back and laugh as I waited outside, alone. A friend who was with them told me, later.

My mom sniffed it out, called them back with Star 69, and threatened a bunch of middle schoolers. It was a thing of beauty to behold.

But, it explains why I have been so slow to trust in my life. The rug's been pulled out from under me too many times to believe that everyone is inherently "good".

"I need a safe place to keep this at night..." "And your cousin's is not a safe place?" "It's safe-adjacent."

Safe. What is it to feel truly safe? Lucy hasn't known it in a while, safe from the inside of her beater sedan. Now, about 21 days shy of ending her Rookie year, Lucy has released her safe place, and is focusing on helping someone else find "safe".

She's healed enough to help another person. And that's huge.

Tim and Lucy are both natural caretakers. Tim is more guarded of who he takes care of, while Lucy is more broad. But they both watch out for the people they love. And I love that about them.

As always, thank you for reading!! I know we're all anxious for the new episode, and I can't wait to watch it with y'all.

[kimhargreeves]

Broken Dreams-The Corinthian x (Endless) Reader

Summary: You are Dream's twin sister, you and you're brother work side by side, he asks you to fetch for the Corinthian which whom you have a complicated relationship with. Just when you are about to do as told you find yourself being trapped underground of a building.

(Finished the first episode of The Sandman and this came to my mind. What if it were you being trapped in the glass sphere instead of Dream. Don't worry I'll be writing for Dream too soon.)

In the waking world, which humanity insists on calling the real world… as if your dreams have no effect upon the choices you make. You mortals go about your work, your loves, your wars, as if your waking lives are all that matter. But there is another life which awaits you when you close your eyes… and enter my realm.

For I am the Queen of Dreams… My brother of Nightmares.

We keep balance between our world and the rest, it seemed like we were destined for this since we can't live without the other, though we constantly fight and argue we must put those aside for the realms.

"Are you sure you'll be able to do this?" I heard the low voice of my brother ask me again. He was hidden in the shadows with only a twinkle of his eyes being seen from where I was sitting.

"When have I failed you?" I huffed looking away and out towards the window. Where our beautiful realm resides.

I provide lovely dreams for everyone while my brother creates nightmares. Though the thought and sound of it may terrify, it is necessary. We are two different people but often times were considered as one. Dream.

That's what they also call me just like him. He takes his job more seriously than I do since I love seeing the outside world and being away from him, says I'm too naive for the real world…

My brother created a nightmare long ago. A tall blonde man that wears glasses often, never taking them off. He's simply known as the Corinthian.

Maybe it was me being naive like my brother or because I never had anyone else than Dream to talk to, about my life, my feelings, everything. I began to see Corinthian as more as a friend as time went by.

Dream wasn't pleased when he found out about my friendship with his Nightmare. That only made him more protective towards me, keeping me locked up in the castle with his raven, but I always found a way to escape and have some fun on my own.

Today he sent me with his ruby, pouch of sand and helm. Dream from the far corner said, "I must attend some important matters. I trust that you'll be back safe."

I simply nodded my head and left now appearing what seemed like the back of an alley. And unconscious man was playing on the ground beside a car and a man in a suit right next to him, "Corinthian.." I spoke clearly.

"My brother's creations stay in The Dreaming. They do not walk amongst the living, killing mortals for pleasure. Wouldn't you agree?"

The man before me sighed and stood up straight before he turned to look at me with a small smirk across his lips.

"Isn't this why he created me? Lady Dream?"

I sighed relieved when I saw the unconscious man was still breathing. "I've told you to call me (Y/N). I'm not my brother." I said taking off my brother's helm to reveal my face.

"Indeed you aren't. You are better a lot more sympathetic and better looking then him." I scoffed rolling my eyes when I noticed him circling around me until he offered me his hand.

"A Dream of The Endless with a Nightmare who would've thought?" He said still with a smirk now making me twirl around him until he caught me again and looking right at me, though not making me see him through his dark glasses.

I felt his hand brush on my jet black hair and down my pale skin. "Times are changing." I shrugged holding onto him close and checking back to see the full moon.

"Such a beautiful sight isn't it?" I smiled lightly nodding my head and glancing back to see Corinthian looking down at me, "I'm being serious, (Y/N,)."

We'll never be happy like this if we keep hiding. I forced a small smile across my lips and stared back at him, "Won't you please come with me? I'm sure.. maybe he'll understand-"

The Corinthian frowned and shook his head once. "If he wants to personally see me then he'll have to stop working. Why don't you tell him that?"

I took a small step forward again and nodded, "I'm sure he won't be pleased again, but, I'll simply tell him that you escaped."

The tall blonde man simply smirked again and with both hands he grabbed my face and placed a kiss on my lips before pulling back quick, "That's my little Dream."

Then everything seemed to go in slow motion, I found myself becoming transparent and without the sand I began to travel elsewhere. I landed with a thud at an unfamiliar place, my body was aching and I had difficulty breathing.

I heard several voices around me my vision was still blurry for a bit but I felt people taking my brother's belongings and undressing me completely.

"Alex! Get that pouch for me. But be careful. Don't break the binding circle…Hmm. Sand. Now the jewel. There…Good. Well, let's see what other treasures you have for us. The bird!" The voice of an old man said when a bird began to caw.

My brothers raven.

My vision went back to normal, I stood up and glared when I saw around me, men various of them staring back at me in awe and afraid.

Where the hell am I?

By the following morning I was powerless, trapped by a spell cast by an amateur with no concern for the damage he had done to my realm and to his own. For the following morning, there were some sleepers who could not wake up.

"Good morning, Magus."

Magus was surprised to see a tall young man right outside his home, wearing a suit perfectly suiting his outfit and pair of dark sunglasses. The older man was confused and questioned the blonde man's motive.

"Do I know you?"

The man with sunglasses smirked and kept his eyes on the older man. "No, but I know all about you, Roderick, and the being you've trapped in your cellar."

"Blackmail then, is it? A shakedown?" Set the older man being slightly afraid and taken back by the revelation.

That's seemingly younger man shook his head. "Not at all. I'm here to help you. You're gonna need all the help you can get. There are benefits to keeping one of The Endless close."

"The Endless?"

"Did you think Death was the only one in charge? The Reaper has family, you know. Desire, Destiny, Despair…"

"Which one have I got then?" The older man asked.

"Dream." Answered the other man with another smirk. "Well sorta." He said knowing both siblings in charge of Dreams are referred as simply one being.

This made Magus scoff, "What's the good of a god who governs dreams?"

"Not a god. More than a god. And are men not governed by their dreams? You've taken her vestments? The ruby, the pouch and the helm? They can lend you an aspect of her power."

The blonde sniffed and kept looking around the place, "Extend your lifespan, allow you to manipulate others. But you must ensure that she never escapes. The binding circle is intact. The circle will not be enough. You must construct a sphere of glass inside the circle to contain Dream's physical manifestation. No one must be allowed to fall asleep in her presence, no one, or she will escape into your dreams. And you don't want that. There are Forced March tablets. Stimulants used to keep trench soldiers awake. See that your guards use them at all times. "

"Um… Why are you helping me? What… what is she to you?"

"Well, you could say that she made me what I am today. And if she ever gets free, she could take it all back…We're being observed."

"What? There's nobody here."

A familiar bird began to caw once it was spotted by the two men. "Well, you'll have to deal with that one. Her name is Jessamy. She belongs to her brother. Best of luck… to the both of us."

"Will I see you again?"

"You should hope not."

"Are you awake? Are you listening?"

I had remained still and silence not moving an inch from the position I was in, I was hugging my legs close to my chest, trying my very best to cover myself and from the cold. I kept on ignoring the man not daring to utter a word. Maybe this is the reason why Dream always kept me locked inside of our home, I was out of danger.

For many years I always wanted to explore more of the world and know more about mortal humans since I always heard that they were selfish beings, now I know that continues to be true.

"I know who you are… Dream of The Endless. I captured you according to the laws of magic. But it wasn't you I wanted. I wanted Death to return my son Randall, who died in the Gallipoli Campaign. If you give him back to me, alive and well, I'll release you. Is that in your power, Lord of Dreams? No, I suppose not. So, then, what can you give me? If I let you go, if I promise to give you back your things. What, power? Wealth? Immortality? Hmm?"

I simply kept on looking straight and tried to block his words. Fighting back the tears that kept on forming in my eyes.

"Is there nothing you can offer me? Well, have it your way then. And until you're ready to speak, I'll enjoy the gifts you've already given me."

Day after day, he pleaded for gifts that are not mankind's to receive nor mine to give. So I remained silent for ten years.

Tough my presence there remained a secret, my brother's ruby, sand and helm brought youth and prosperity to Roderick Burgess and his followers. But for the rest of the world, the suffering continued...

[xoteajays]

Don't get me wrong. I don't have a problem with canon characters for the most part.. Unless that character annoys me too much. Because I get easily annoyed by people and characters enough as it is anyway.

But I don't know. Never really cared about canon relationship though, especially not any canon ships that I would ever want to read about at all. I've always preferred any original characters and insert characters though, especially insert characters if those stories are the last resort for most fandoms. I don't know why. But I have always been like that.

I'm always very desperate enough to read about fandoms, characters and whoever or whatever else to read about it. Never enough content for certain fandoms and characters. Especially the fandoms I enjoy.

If I'm honest.. I was surprised how long the episodes were, not that I'd complain. But usually for shows like this, the first and last episodes, a premiere and finale episodes, are usually the longer episodes. So I will say that I was really surprised every episode is longer than I thought it would be. But I'm still enjoying the series though. That's my opinion.

Apparently I'm more attracted to romantic men that I thought.. There are those men who protect the weak, like women, and they also know how to care for them. Maybe I consider romantic? But it is definitely a type for me. And I hate how most real men aren't like fictional men.

~

I hate to be that person. But I will rarely ever read stories without any smut. Because that's part of the reason why I would want to read any stories for that character. Smut, action, maybe action. Depends what the genre is.. But I might read just about any genre, if smut is also the genre included in that story. I'm picky about that. That's a preference. My preferences. And I need to stop being repetitive when conversing.

~

The Sadness is definitely one of the more fucked up horror movies I'd seen, besides the Hostile movies. If you enjoyed those Hostile movies though. But, if you're uncomfortable with those movies, then I'd have to say don't watch The Sadness.. Because it is even more violent than the Hostile movies. Both movies are completely fucked up movies.

That reminds me of The Raid movies. Have you ever watched movies like that? More Asian action movies that I'd have to recommend again to everyone. The Raid (both movies), Headshot and The Night Comes For Us. They have the same actors. Amazing choreography fights just like any other Asian series. So I would also recommend those movies.

I've never watch Squid Games or Midnight, so I can't comment on the actor much. I don't know Wi Ha-joon well enough to comment on him as an actor.. I might be the only person who has never watched Squid Games at all. But I do know about it. I know enough about the show.

I don't have Disney. But whenever I get the chance to watch the show - The Worst Of Evil show, I'll give the show a chance whenever I could watch it. If the show actually ends up on any other channels or sites.

~

What didn't work out well?

Definitely. The moment Kuryu found out Smoky's health was actually worsening by the time, they already planned to kill him since Smoky's the physical evidence of that illness. Along with Eri too, but they have never known about her at the time. Besides the fact they knew there's other survivors with that same illness, which is why they were killing a lot of people at the clinical buildings (when Eri ran away at the time).

I feel like Hyuga might be the only leader who wouldn't care about the handouts to Takeshi. I could see Cobra, Murayama and Rocky as their more helpful leaders in this sitation. Possibly Kohaku and Tsukumo, if it came from the older generational leaders too. Maybe. But definitely those three. But.. Obviously, like you said, his closets people in his life would be the ones to tell him to become a leader with his methods as opposed to someone else's methods. A different leader from Smoky.

I'll tell you more scenes when I remember other scenes but especially since I'm rewatching the movies again... I've seen the whole franchise way too many times to count. But, for some reason, my mind is blank at the moment. My mind has been scattered lately. I don't know why.

~

Who knows. I don't know. But, as the days ago on, even more people have become horrible people. Without bringing too much of the more current events into our conversation. Aren't most people supposed to work together during difficult times, not against each other? Maybe a lot of things changed in this world. Because that's what it seems like.. People never seem to give any compassion to others anymore. So I'm sure this is one of the reasons why I've become completely apathetic, about everyone and everyone. I don't care about anymore. That's how I am now. Now I'm someone who really complains, "Back in my day...".

Don't know about you. But I was raised on discipline. If I did any thing horrible, I was punished repeated until I stopped doing those horrible things. Most of my family is strict, disciplined, and any word like that.

Those people need discipline. But, for some reason, it's inhumane for you to discipline your children now. And I do not mean using a belt to beat them. But maybe being grounded until they stop. Or something.

I don't know.

But that's how it is here... At least in my neighborhood. Those horrible things people younger than me, I would never imagine doing. And if a lot of them were caught doing those things, then they'll just get slaps on the wrist types of punishments. They are really horrible parents.

My aunt's like this with her children. And none of us can tolerate her.

Actually. There were types of teachers, or whatever the occupation is, where they would drive around the town searching for students who's playing hooky just so they would drag them back to school. Not me. I have always went to school, minus the days I never went in school - a sick day or doctor's appointment. Like I said, my family is really strict.

Which is why I hate my family.

I might have to top you about 'discipline' in school. If you consider the situation a disciplinary incident for me.. So back when I was in middle school, I was in fourth grade. This was during lunch. A classmate who had lunch at the same time as me was complaining he is hungry, that he didn't eat enough. So I shared my food with him. He started a food fight with the food I gave him. Even though he was the one who really started the food fight, but I got blamed because it was my food that's been used in the food fight. I was the only one out of the whole entire class who had in school suspension for the food fight that I didn't do. How does that make sense?! That is definitely one reason why I really stopped sharing anything with people. Over stupid reasons like this.

I might be a bitter person.

i’ll read some canon/canon stuff, but usually it’s not actual canon ships. more ‘i think these characters should bang’. and if there’s nothing there i’ll write it, hence my whole karunira situation. i like very few actual canon ships, i’ll deal if they’re background relationships but i’m rarely reading them as the main ship unless they’re very compelling.

i could not actually tell you what type of character i end up liking. it’s a total toss up every time i watch something.

~

i don’t think i’ve heard of hostile or the raid. the raid looks interesting tho. i think i’ve heard of the night comes for us, but haven’t watched it.

he doesn’t have many scenes in squid game, but he was good in it. he’s a really great actor and he’s got great range. like it’s a total flip of roles between ‘little women’ and ‘bad and crazy’. bad and crazy is also pretty fun. it’s an action comedy with a bit of mystery thrown in. lot of good fight scenes. it only had one season but wrapped up very nicely.

i watched squid game because i really like death game shows. i went through a whole phase of watching a lot of death game show/movie that i could find. other than squid game and aib, i really liked ‘as the god’s will’. it had nijiro murakami and dori sakurada in it very briefly, but ryunosuke kamiki’s amaya was the total show stealer. (he’s a feral lil bastard, i love him, he’s the worst).

~

they didn’t even try to kill him like. medically like it seemed they were going to do with the captured nameless citizens. (i cannot imagine they we’re going to brutally kill a child like eri). they just beat that boy to death. i think it was really personal for nikaido, but he shoulda manned up and fought smokey himself if he wanted to ‘erase his past’ so bad. it’s a rip to just call in his big crew to kill him, but i guess smokey was a force to be reckoned with even while sick.

hyuga doesn’t care. he’s like ‘whatever, deal’. takeshi just ‘i wasn’t asking for your help anyway🖕’. cobra and rocky are definitely the more helpful. murayama wants to fight takeshi, like how he fought cobra and hyuga. it’s how he makes friends!

h&l please come back and give me more character development episodes.

~

EDIT BECAUSE I DONT WANNA FORGET

but i had an idea for an all-girls-school associated with oya high and in oya territory. because feral unhinged teenage girls and young adult women who didn’t grow out of that phase deserve representation too! their school would probably also start with ‘o’ and they’d be pissed about never getting called up for the whole ‘dude’s club’ that is the current sword groups. ‘our school starts with ‘o’ too, why can’t we be the ‘o’ in sword?!’.

also rivalry between the leader of the girls’ school and murayama. maybe she’d be a cobra ship.

rocky has a mild heart attack every time they show up in a fight because even though they can fight well, they’re also taking hits and he hates it.

edit #2

i’m liking ojou お嬢 (‘young lady’, a character trope in japanese media) or oujo 王女 (another japanese term for princess) for the school name. maybe stereotypical pink for the girls to offset the stereotypical blue for the boys. i know the strawberries are already pink but. i don’t care. maybe they go to the girls school too.

~

where’s the compassion? where’s the human decency? i was raised by pretty strict parents and had punishments. i wasn’t like. abused or anything. but i was raised to be decent. i’d never steal, i don’t smoke or do drugs, i’d never drive drunk. so it’s possible to discipline your children without abusing them.

grounding kids and giving non-abusive punishments need to come back. banned from playing games for x amount of time, not being allowed to go out with friends for however long, no gaming or tv or phone until they’ve finished their homework. hell, parents need to give their kids a curfew again!

i don’t even know if they do the punishment cards at my high school anymore and i doubt it considering the stories that i’ve heard recently. they should bring em back if they got rid of them. but then again, i dont think these kids even care if they get in-school suspensions or even expelled.

not looking forward to the future if the next generation can’t square tf up and get it together by the time they need to enter the workforce or go to university.

[i-cant-sing]

What would Rei do to make Dabi not trust her around his own child? Like we all know he’s not the best dad but he might have a limit to what he’ll tolerate happening to his kid.

So what does Rei do to break that limit and cause him to lash out and never let her near his kid again?

I've said it before and I'll say it again: Dad Dabi is > Brother Dabi by like a... MILLION TIMES.

Dad Dabi is so so protective of his baby. I mean, he really does treat her like glass, thinks she's too pure for this world, too pure for him. He doesn't know what he did to deserve you, but god is he grateful for the ray of sunshine. His initial plan was to keep you hidden from everyone, but then you got hurt by his rival and well, he had to contact Natsuo to save your life. Then one thing lead to another, and his family found out about your existence.

Now, Dabi was very cautious about who to let you be around and not. You already know he kept an eagle eye on Enji, forcing you to sit in his lap so that you wouldn't go running to his father, who was putting up the whole facade of "Oooh I'm a changed man now and I love my wife and my children, and my first grand child!" Yeah, Dabi doesn't believe that Enji wouldn't repeat his abusive behaviour with you, and he'd much rather watch the world burn and crumble than let a hair on your head get hurt.

Dabi is a little wary of Shotou because of how much he likes to just stare off into space, but that's cause of Enji, okay? So he trusts his siblings and mom around you too, happy that you bring joy into their lives the same way you bring joy to his.

What he didn't expect was for you to whine and beg him not to drop you off at Rei's, saying that she forces you to dress up or doesn't let you play. Dabi thinks you're just messing around, and he doesn't have time to inquire you because he gotta go to LoV meeting or something.

Anyways he drops you off at Rei's (after making sure Enji's not around the house). But he's half an hour into his ride, when he realises you forgot your backpack in his car, and he knows you like to show you off your stickers to everyone and he doesn't want Rei to call him that you're having a breakdown because you can't find your backpack.

He drives back home and walks in to give you your bag, only to hear your loud wails. He runs into his mother's room, thinking that you had realised you your bag was missing. But he walked into the room to see a sight he never imagined: Rei was holding a brush and you were crying, your little form cowering away from her. She hadn't even noticed Dabi, so when she raised the wooden brush to hit you again, she was surprised when someone caught her wrist.

Dabi pushed her away from you, bending down to check on you. He could see your cheek was reddening from where she had swatted you. Picking you up, Dabi rubbed your back, and hushed you, telling you its okay, he's here now.

"Touya, I-"

"Shut up." Dabi never thought his voice would hold such venom for his own mother, but after the sight he'd witnessed, he's surprised its not deadlier.

He walked towards the door and moved to the living room, settling you on the couch. Giving you your backpack, he told you to buys yourself while he comes back in five minutes.

He goes back to Rei, who has now over her episode, and is crying in the corner as she realises how she fucked up. "Touya, I'm so-"

"How dare you?" Dabi was mad, so mad at the one person he'd trusted his angel with. He made sure to yell at her, remind her of all her shortcomings, of all the abusive shit she'd done to him as a kid too, even if it wasn't physical, it affected him. And until now, he was going to let it slide and excuse it for Enji being an ass to everyone, but she should've known better- should know better now.

Had it been anyone else, Dabi would've incinerated them the moment he saw them hurting you. But some part of him knew Rei was messed up because of Enji, and besides, you were in just earshot. He couldn't risk it.

"You're never going to see her ever again. And if you ever try to hurt her, I will end you." He told her, after calling bull on her whole "Oh Touya, it was just an episode, a mistake! All because Y/n said she didn't want me to do her hair-"

When Dabi walked out of the room, he saw you giggling on the couch as Enji made airplane sounds while he fed you the ice cream. You looked better now, but that didn't mean he liked/trusted Enji. Picking you up, he began walking towards the door, knowing that Enji just heard his conversation with Rei.

"Bye bye, Grandpa! I love you." The words made Dabi roll his eyes as he walked out of the house. Just because he hasnt hurt you, doesn't mean he's a good guy.

If he's learnt anything from today, its that he can never trust anyone around you, ever. Family or not, all Dabi knows is that he's the only one who can keep you safe.

[romaniandollar]

Dramas I watched in 2021:

Well, it's the end of another year, and it's time to wrap up all the lovely shows I've seen this year. While last year I only watched K-dramas, this year was a bit more varied. A big thanks to everyone who liked last year's set of reviews - you can find it here. This year I also had a few that I started but then dropped. I included them because they were good dramas as well, but just didn't work for me personally, and someone else might enjoy them more.

So, without further ado, let's jump into it!

1: Final Life (J-Drama, 2017)

A cop with a troubled past must protect a young man with an extraordinary gift that quickly turns into a curse. Together they solve cases while trying to figure out who's responsible for the assassinations suddenly happening around the city, but what will they do when their time starts running out?

I picked up this drama mainly because I wanted to see Taemin in this role. The main plot point was quite unusual, but the drama almost made it work. I say almost, because the subplots were kind of distracting and slowed down the story. The cop's backstory, while sad, was used as a flashback too much and he doesn't do any growing as a character, which is a shame. I'm also questioning the choice to have Min-joon and Kana only speak in English to each other. Even if the characters went to university in the US together, neither actor speaks English well and it shows. It makes all their scenes rather stiff because of their lines. However, Taemin does well with his role and his action and whump scenes are excellent.

I'm particularly taking points off for the ending.

Score: 6 / 10

2: The Mandalorian (American series, 2019-2021)

The one the Internet's been fawning over since the first season. A mandalorian bounty hunter is hired to capture an unusual target. When he discovers his target is only a baby (albeit a strangely powerful one), he decides to keep the baby and lands in a series of adventures around the galaxy as he does his best to keep his new child safe.

We've all seen Baby Yoda become a fandom favourite, so I had to see this one, and I have to say it didn't disappoint. The acting, story-line, and chemistry between the characters were all stellar, and a refreshing change of pace after the films. I think even someone who hasn't watched Star Wars would enjoy this series.

Score: 10 / 10

Dropped: The Legend of Fei (C-Drama, 2020)

I dropped this one because, while I absolutely loved the main couple and their chemistry, the story was hard to follow and kind of confusing. That might be on me since I'm not familiar with Chinese dramas, but I didn't have the time to watch a 50-episode series that didn't have my full attention. But, who knows, maybe I'll return to it.

3: Healer (2014)

How much can the decisions made by the old generation change the lives of the next one? A lot, as we can see in Healer. An infamous night courier, a veteran journalist and a rookie reporter don't seem to have anything in common at first, but they are brought together as they try to piece together their pasts, protect themselves in the present, and try to salvage their futures.

An amazing drama that will leave you guessing as the pieces of these three characters' lives are pushed together one by one. With action, mystery, angst, romance and a lovable couple, it has everything I want in a good drama. It has good re-watch factor too.

Score: 10 / 10

4: The K2 (2016)

Because apparently I didn't get enough of Ji Chang-Wook in Healer. I started this one immediately after that.

An ex-mercenary soldier known only as 'K2' lives as a fugitive after being framed for a murder in Iraq. But when he witnesses something he shouldn't have seen, he's hired as a bodyguard and thrust into the political world that's growing hotter as parties fight for the presidential seat. The stakes are high, morality is low, and K2 will have to pull all the tricks he knows to try to get himself - and his charge - out alive.

An exciting, fast-paced drama that is excellent for binging. The acting, soundtrack and stunts are stellar and Ji Chang-Wook proves once again that action dramas are his forte. I also liked that the drama avoided the cliche 'cold, brooding soldier' trope - K2 is an empathetic character who feels immensely, and his chemistry with Choi Yoo-jin is amazing. This is one I look forward to watching again.

Score: 10 / 10

Dropped: Something In The Rain (2018)

I dropped this one because, while the couple was an interesting dynamic, the story felt too ordinary and realistic for me. Though that's probably because I'd seen so many action dramas right before it. But Jung Hae-In is an excellent actor and absolutely adorable in this drama, so if you wanna check it out, go right ahead.

5: Vincenzo (2021)

A Korean consigliere of an Italian mafia family escapes back to his home country after clashing with his Family's new Don. There's a gold vault waiting for him that he can use as his retirement fund, but it's under the floor of an old block where an eccentric bunch of folks all live and work. When he teams up with a young, feisty lawyer in order to get control of the building, they find themselves up against a bigger company that want the block as well, but for much more suspicious reasons. Fortunately, Vincenzo is a mafia, and this isn't his first war...

This is the drama the internet was buzzing about for the first half of the year, and after seeing all the hype I was eager to check it out. And I have to say it didn't disappoint one bit. The story was really interesting and complex and each character was fleshed out incredibly. Ok Taecyeon, especially, made a chillingly psychopathic villain as Jang Han-seok and really raised the bar for idol actors for me. It also balanced the dark thriller genre with comedy really well, making this simultaneously a mafia thriller about corruption in the business world and ruthless justice, as well as a fun, heartwarming story about returning to your roots and finding that it's not always blood that makes a Family - in every sense of the word.

Score: 10 / 10

6: Navillera (2021)

An old man who has lived a long but bland life realizes that he's gone through the motions of life but never was able to get into the thing that he really loves - ballet. Despite opposition from his family, he's determined to try to learn ballet before it's too late. He's placed under the tutelage of a young, talented but disheartened ballerino, and as time goes by they find that they can help each other more than they realize.

This is the only non-romantic K-drama on this list. It's a really heartwarming story about finding and chasing your dreams no matter how old you are. The acting is also excellent and I'd love to see Song Kang do more ballet. Definitely check this one out, but don't forget the tissues.

Score: 9 / 10

7: Suspicious Partner (2017)

Yes, another Ji Chang-Wook drama. What can I say, he's my favourite actor.

Ace prosecutor Noh Ji-Wook's life gets turned upside down when Eun Bong-Hee gets charged with murdering her ex shortly after she starts working for him. Bailing her out of jail costs him his job, and eventually they both end up as lawyers at a new firm. But when they find there's more to that case than it seems and the murders haven't stopped, it's up to them to track down the criminal and clear Bong-Hee's name once and for all.

This drama was super fun to watch. I watched it over the summer with my mum so that was part of the fun of course, but the drama itself was definitely memorable. Ji Chang-Wook nailed his role and his chemistry with Nam Ji-Hyun was stellar - there's a reason they were being shipped back in the day! I loved how much banter there was - both between the leads and the other characters. It made it really entertaining, and the actors really sold it, taking this drama from good to great. Its only fault? That it ends!

Score: 10 / 10

8: The Chosen (American series, 2019-2021)

A dramatization of the life of Jesus as he starts out on his mission and starts gathering his disciples. Each of them have their own problems and baggage and their group causes no small stir among the local religious leaders, but sometimes trouble is a good thing.

Yes, I know, we've all seen so many adaptations of the life of Jesus that it can be easy to wonder what's new about this one. But trust me when I say it's worth the watch. The storyline is adapted in a way that is reverent to the original content but at the same time is engaging for a modern audience, and all the characters - including Jesus! - are fleshed out and developed into interesting and unique characters. The cast is also very diverse and they absolutely nail their roles. There's only two seasons so far, but there's more in the works and I can't wait to see where the creators will take this show.

Score: 10 / 10

Dropped: O Rico É Lazaro (Brazilian drama, 2017)

My family was watching this one so I tagged along. The concept was very good - adapting the stories of Daniel and Jeremiah from the Bible while at the same time weaving them with court drama and the leads who embody the title story in a way I wasn't expecting, and the whole thing was excellently made with a good budget - so what was the problem here?

The length!

I've seen enough dramas to know you really shouldn't need more than 50 episodes to tell a good story, even if it's an epic court drama. Game of Thrones had more, but I think they were kind of pushing it. Anyway, no matter the genre, 180 episodes is way too much for one story. The first 30 episodes were great, but after that the story started slowing down, and - add to that the fact the show is impossible to find with subtitles so we were watching it Spanish dubbed and we're not fluent - that made the show drag too much. Not to mention every time the show tried to be angsty and dramatic it felt more like narm instead. So in the end we collectively dropped it.

9: Vagabond (2019)

Tragedy strikes a stubborn but resourceful stunt actor when his young nephew dies in a plane crash along with his taekwondo class. But before he can grieve with the rest of the victims, he sees someone that, by all accounts, should have gone down with the plane, and starts to suspect this may have been no accident. But every bit of evidence he finds is quickly erased and before long his own life is threatened. A young NIS agent teams up with him and they start down a dangerous investigation that leads to one question: What exactly is the government trying to hide?

Action dramas are always fun to watch, and this one was definitely memorable. While technically not a romance drama, Lee Seung-gi's and Suzy's chemistry was off the charts and made their characters' relationship solid and believable even without romantic scenes. His stunts and acting were also amazing - he isn't an ace for nothing! - and the story kept you guessing right up to the end. I am taking points off though because the ending was left wide open, and there's no sign of a second season in sight.

Most dramas wrap up nicely and don't need another season, but this time, Netflix, seriously. Make a second season.

Score: 9 / 10

10: Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

After drowning while trying to rescue a child in a lake, Go Ha-Jin's world is turned upside down when she finds she's not only alive, but resurrected as Hae-Soo, a young noble in the courts of Goryeo. It's up to her to navigate the minefield that's the royal court, ally with the princes that have given her their loyalty and tread lightly when the inevitable battle for the throne begins. It's easy to want everyone she cares about to make it out alive, but is it easier said than done? Can the future be changed at all?

Enough of my kdrama-watching friends told me to watch this one that I decided to check it out. And after seeing it, I have to say it's the star of historical dramas. The story is amazing, the cast is stellar and their chemistry, particularly between IU and Lee Joon-gi, is really, really good. This is proof that IU is not only a queen on the K-pop stage, but in the acting realm as well. This is definitely a drama that should be on everyone's watch list.

Score: 10 / 10

It was a great year for dramas, and while I'm getting busier and less sure how much time I'll have to watch many dramas in the future, I'm looking forward to see new ones - and maybe do some re-watches as well.

[hootysblog]

Hey everyone!! With the new episode coming out, I made a fanfic based on this post from my other Tumblr blog.

I would recommend reading the post first so you can understand the story better, or not, you do you!

Happy reading!!

Knocking Sense into You

Luz feels numb. She doesn't feel like any visitors right now; she just wants to wallow in sadness. The events of the underground witch duels have come and gone.

Amity got injured because of her. Luz didn't see the attack coming and Amity stepped up and took the brunt of the attack. Luckily, Alador was watching and knew that he needed to protect his daughter. Luz took Amity to the healers and got her healed up. When Alador came into his daughter's room after the duel, all he saw was his daughter upset and that her friend wasn't with her anymore.

Luz came home and went upstairs to her room. She hasn't been out since returning home. Eda knows what's going on and made her way up to Luz's room. She knocks on the door.

"Kid?"

Luz muffles a "come in."

Eda opens the door and sees Luz in a depressed state. Her eyes are puffy and red, her hair is disheveled, and she had her blanket wrapped tight around her.

"We need to talk."

Luz shakes her head no.

Eda thinks for a minute. "Fine, then I won't tell you my story about Raine."

Luz peeks up from her blankets. Eda slyly smiles at her apprentice. "If you want the story, you have to get dressed, come downstairs and eat something. I'll tell you the story then."

"Promise?"

"On Hooty's life."

_______________________________________________

Luz sits there with her mouth open. Eda is sipping apple blood and is proud of herself. She knows she might have broken Luz, again.

"Do you get the point of my story kid?"

"I'm a little confused on what this has to do with Amity and I."

Eda groans and sets down her apple blood. "Because I've made mistakes and I want you to learn from them. You and Amity remind me of Raine and I."

"Awwww."

Eda gives her a disgusted look. "Anyway, I don't want you to end up like we are now. You two are perfect for each other."

"But what about when I go home?"

"Then you make the most of the days you have together. And who knows, we may find a permanent portal so we can see each other. We can only control what we can control right now. You need to go to Boot's House and talk to her. If you don't, I'll make you clean Hooty for the rest of the time that you're here."

Eda gives her apprentice a smile and Luz rushes over to give her a hug.

"Save it for your girlfriend!"

Luz laughs and ventures out to Blight Manor.

_______________________________________________

Luz sucks in a breath. She knocks at the Blight Manor front door. She silently hopes that Amity answers, but is surprised that Alador appears.

"Oh, hey, Mr. Blight." Luz nervously laughs. "Is Amity here?"

Alador stares down to Luz. "I'm not at liberty to say where she's at, especially to you." His eyes narrow towards Luz.

"Mr. Blight, I really, really need to talk to Amity. It's for, a, school project!" Luz says with confidence, hoping that Alador will be convinced.

Alador raises an eyebrow. "Uh huh."

Luz keeps smiling at him, which is starting to freak him out a little bit. He sighs and slumps his shoulders.

"I can't do this anymore. Look Luz..."

"You know my name? I thought you would refer to me as human," Luz shockingly says.

Alador rolls his eyes. "My wife refers to you at that, but I'm a little more respectful, especially to my daughter's girlfriend."

Luz goes beat red.

"Yes, I've known for a while about you and Amity, but kept it to myself out of respect for Amity's privacy. Anyway, like I was saying, Amity doesn't want to talk to you right now, but I can tell you're not going to go away."

Luz laughs nervously because she knows he's right. "Then can I go see her, please?"

"I'll call her down here. Don't want you getting lost in the Manor," he retorts.

"Or you can lead me up to Amity's room and I'll talk to her?"

"If I do that, she might tear you apart. At least if I can get her out here, she can't do that." He chuckles. He turns around to yell upstairs.

"Amity, there's someone here to see you!"

"I'm not coming down!" Amity yells through her closed door.

Alador turns to Luz, shrugs, and yells again to his daughter. "I don't think they're leaving any time soon!"

They both hear a loud groan and she bellows down that she'll be there in a minute.

Alador smiles at Luz and gives her a pat on the shoulder. Luz is standing there, getting nervous and starts to sweat more when she hears Amity come down the stairs.

"Okay Dad, whose here to see..." Amity stops and Luz waves to her. "Oh, it's you."

Luz winces. "Amity, please I need to talk to you."

Alador walks away and Amity takes his place at the door, arms folding across her chest. "Why? So you can actually break up with me?"

"No no no no. I want to say that I'm an idiot."

"Go on."

"I'm an idiot because I shouldn't have said any of those things to you."

Amity looks at her. "Of course you shouldn't have! I told you we were both at fault for my injury. I said we will be okay, but then you said that you need a break to think about us?!"

Luz flinches at Amity's venom and is about to interrupt her, but Amity continues talking.

"Why would we need a break? We were doing fine! And then just one little injury and bam! We need a break! I don't understand Luz. Why did you need a break? Why did you say you needed to protect me by taking a break? Why did you...?"

"TE QUIERO AMITY BLIGHT!"

Luz looks at Amity, who is standing there with her mouth hanging open. Luz is about to explain to Amity what she just said, but she can't because of Amity.

She launches into Luz and crashes her lips against Luz. Luz is taken aback by the sudden contact, but melts into the kiss. When Amity pulls back, Luz is smitten with her.

"I love you too, Luz."

"Wait, you knew what I said?!?"

Amity pulls out another Spanish book. "Eda found it in her booth one day and she gave it to me. This was after the sweet potato incident. I didn't know that was a cookbook." They both laugh at the memory.

"So going back to what I said, I'm an idiot because I love you. I stepped back because I pushed you too hard and you got injured because of me. I couldn't bear seeing you get hurt again and that's why I said we needed a break. I did it out of love for you. I was afraid to admit my feelings to you and I thought that was the best option at the time, but obviously, I was wrong." Luz blushes, but smiles.

Amity reaches for Luz's hand. "Well, love makes you do stupid things, and this is one of them. Like I told you, I can't help you unless I know what's going on in that head of yours. I want us to communicate because we're better together. And I want you to promise that we will talk about our problems together."

Luz nods. "So, does that me you forgive me?"

"You know I can't stay mad at you, even though you can be an idiot."

"But I'm your idiot," Luz grins at her girlfriend.

Amity rolls her eyes and kisses Luz again. They both know that everything will be alright as long as they work together.

[toujoursmiraculous]

Thoughts and Reaction to Guiltrip!

Alright, so this one is a bit more of a serious one for me. But I'll be going in order of the episode so the more serious talk will be a bit further down! First thing we get is this lovely moment:

I've already addressed it in a post, but I'll say it again here. Guiltrip is episode 11, several episodes take place before Guiltrip that we haven't seen yet, so this is awhile after Marinette and Luka broke up. We also know that Marinette has always had feelings for Adrien, even when she was with Luka. Luka always knew that fact too. None of this is new and is to be expected, obviously, when Love Square is endgame. But! I also want to point out here that this is just a soft look. Very gentle, very common. I see people looking at each other both in real life and in other shows all the time. A look that says "I adore you". And I think it's sweet! Very subtle, but enough. Something's wrong with Rose. We never get told (in this episode anyway) what it is, but it's a chronic illness that's a worry in Rose's life, ever since she was young. I feel really bad for Juleka, knowing that her friend's been struggling with an illness, and whenever something happens she has to worry about it alone. Also that really sucks when you try to cheer somebody up and make a joke, that because you were mislead about a situation you end up making things worse. Poor Marinette. :c Adrien when he realizes he's bumped into someone (and the pink bubbles to remind us of Marinette's feelings for him):

Adrien when he realizes just who it was he bumped into!:

Scroll up now and look at how Marinette was looking at Adrien earlier that day. It's the exact same look. Yet, something feels different from usual to me, idk. But continuing on. Marinette gets slightly jumbled with her words, but manages to give herself a kick and says nope not now! Good for her! You can't expect to change overnight, but she's working on it.

She looks to the side, gathering her surroundings for a split second and she misses the top step. I'd like to say that this is just a joke for the show but well, this kind of thing has happened to me a lot because I'm that much of a klutz so I feel for her here. (On Halloween I forgot that there was another step as I was walking down as I wasn't paying attention. I couldn't walk on my foot for 2 weeks. It's a serious problem, guys. Really. xDD) Marinette had told Adrien she's concerned it was something she said that upset Juleka and Adrien tells her while sometimes she doesn't make sense, what she says is never mean. This scene reminds me of when Ladybug's worried about something and Chat Noir's there to keep her grounded and remind her of how things really are. I very much appreciate seeing such a scene with Adrienette! Makes the Love Square much more rounded. Also the way he stops her and says let him go talk to her to try to help the situation and any possible misunderstandings from taking place. ;-;

Can I just say... oh my gosh. He went from determined, to hearing Marinette trying to comfort her, to looking with confidence "This girl is amazing." and the whole Ladynoir vibe I'm getting from this scene makes me happy. The thing that's unrealistic about this scene though is you expect to tell me that 8 kids went down those stairs and came up behind them and Marinette, Adrien, and Juleka didn't hear? XD Now here's where the serious comes in. Rose is hospitalized with an illness we don't know about, but has been a long-term thing that has Juleka really worried a lot. That must be so stressful :c I'm going to be honest and say I never really saw Julerose romantically. Like I can see how people do, but to me, I could see that their bond was really unique. It didn't really fit completely in the "BFF" category either. But if felt like there was more to them that I didn't really understand. I think the best example off the top of my head was during Zombizou, when Rose was going to help Chloe after she slid down Chat's stick and she went too fast for him to catch her. Juleka seemed especially worried and concerned for her. Rose never seemed to get concerned about Juleka in the same way Juleka was about Rose. Juleka's always been more protective and worried and it was always one of those things that made me go "hmm, interesting". Now this episode finally explains why and I'm honestly super glad for it. Because this kind of a relationship is not a common one in media, especially kids media. Partially because having such serious illnesses in young people is not particularly common, and having someone who's so caring and protective of that person is even less common. And most people probably don't realize how amazing it is to have health problems and then have someone in their life who acts like Juleka does for Rose. I had a life-threatening illness as a kid, one that still affects me greatly today. When in school, my friends knew about it without me having to say anything unfortunately, and while they didn't usually treat me differently, sometimes they were pretty ignorant and didn't understand why I wasn't "normal" like them. They asked questions that were harder ones to answer, and tended to forget my answers. I got a lot of "I know you have X problem but I still don't see why you can't..." as well as thinking I was lying if I said I wasn't well and couldn't go to a party, and that was hard to deal with, being limited in what you can do which makes you different and being judged for things out of your control. So seeing these kids who only know something's wrong with her, but are willing to do so much to make her life better and happier, not judging her at all, wanting to take care of her no questions asked was really heart-warming for me. I only had one friend during that time that was anything close to this. I never had to explain anything to him if I didn't want to. He never asked me personal questions I didn't want to answer. And he seemed to know what he could do to make things for me easier if I was having a hard time without me ever saying so. And this is another reminder to me that this show is aimed at kids. To show kids that they'll likely encounter someone around their age that's going through something serious like a health problem, and what that kid needs most is kindness and not to be made to feel like they're even more different from the other kids than they already feel. The way they handled that aspect of it for such a short, limited intro to it, I think they did good. I discussed this next bit with a friend. She mentioned it first, the trope where those with chronic or serious illnesses are usually an "inspiration". With this episode, you kind of get the feeling that because Rose's been through so much, she's therefore a really positive and bubbly person and it kind of gives off the vibe that if you don't view things the way she does, then you're not doing it right. "What matters isn't the problem, but how you handle it." While I agree with this, and that when you come out of or regularly deal with

such hard times, automatically trying to see the world better and brighter can easily happen, but it's not exactly realistic either, at least not to the extent Rose and other people the media has portrayed. For one, I think you have to have always been more of that kind of person from the start to realistically be so positive. As my friend said and I agree, positivity is just who Rose is, she's not who she is just for the sake of a trope. But honestly, when you've gone through something so difficult, and if life continues to throw you more difficulties on top of it, being positive so much can sometimes turn into a negative and be harmful too. When you've been through a lot, it's important to allow yourself to feel the negative too because it's part of dealing with such problems. And if you've been through a lot in life and you haven't come out of it being all sunshine and rainbows, always looking on the brighter side of things, that's perfectly okay. Life's hard and tends not to work out how we'd like, or even for the better sometimes. If being positive and hopeful after struggling is hard to do, you're not bad or wrong for feeling that way, everybody handles things differently. c: ANYWAY, moving on to the rest of the episode! Juleka being all irritated and worried that the class was going to expose her spilling Rose's secret xD While the situation isn't ideal, it's nice that this is the most involved she's seemed with everyone in the entire duration of the show. But Rose knows something's up, and I love that she talks to her about it and realizes that she should've told everyone herself instead of Juleka being the only one who knew. Which has been such a burden on her. (Oh no, what if this is a reflection of Alya knowing Marinette's Ladybug later on? I'm hoping not.) Ugh these children and how much they care about Rose! These kids are the absolute best. But then they kind of ruin it a little with going overboard. Which, frankly, I think is just ignorance of her situation really. I mean, we don't know what exactly is wrong with Rose. Just that she ends up in the hospital. If they knew about her condition, what causes her to get sick, what to look out for, etc, they'd be much more informed and much less likely to be frantic whenever something's not perfectly "normal" with her. All of these kids are going to be overprotective parents someday, aren't they?

Okay so like... are Adrien and Marinette going to question at all how Ladybug and Chat Noir showed up immediately after Juleka was akumatized, and no damage had happened outside of the school for it to be known to the public? Literally the only ones that could've possibly known were the class to have shown up that fast. ??? I am confusion. "I can't help my best friend face his father." "No, Nino..." Two things: The fact that THIS is what he's feeling guilty about? My poor Nino! Dx I just love him, he really doesn't get enough love and appreciation imo. Also, um, isn't Ladybug like right by Chat? Didn't she hear that? What? Idk but I feel like we're really missing something here. Usually we get things that are kind of hints, that make us wonder if they know right, but this? This is a bit too blaring-in-your-face, and there's two major things so close together. Really strange. Chat about to use Cataclysm on himself. Good grief that was not expected. Chat Blanc threatened to destroy himself along with everything else. Now Chat Noir while affected with negative emotions from an akuma almost Cataclysmed himself. This show really is getting deep and dark isn't it. o.o Also is there something Adrien needs to work out with someone...? Daizzi and Rose saying the other's so cute, ugh they're both so cute! And Pigella's costume and transformation is so adorable omg. Okay so Pigella's power allows people to see their biggest wish, the thing that'd make them the most happy and feel positive emotions. I know some people probably think "That's it?" Considering that Shadow Moth preys on people's negative emotions, such a power is actually extremely useful facing Shadow Moth. (And let's not forget, that while that's her power, she has the ability to fight and make a difference just from being transformed too) BUT AWWW Juleka's wish! And her face when Pigella said it aloud. ;-; Am I the only one wondering if Pigella may someday use her power on Shadow Moth and that's how they learn his motive? I'm so impressed with how Rose knew how to handle everything. She knew she can't slip up with Juleka. She knew to sneak away to detransform and come back as Rose. She knew to subtly give the Miraculous back so nobody would ever know she had it. Even Chat Noir had no idea! I don't know why, I'm just so very proud of that. "She doesn't need a Miraculous to be a superhero." She really has the characteristics of one, and I can't wait to see more of Pigella. Also I'm really wondering. This scene here:

All the kids that are part of that friend group are there...except Marinette and Adrien, of course. Alya knows why Marinette isn't there. But is she wondering about why Adrien isn't there too? LOL Marinette being like "I'm taking your pillow back, sorry! Gotta wait for it like everyone else." and the boys being like LE GASP. Marinette's right, she's not fragile! The fact Rose jokes with her and makes everyone laugh, and Chloe saying "Hey, why doesn't everyone laugh when I say something like that?!" Adrien: Because in your case, it's never a joke. Chloe: Hm, that's true. Which is super funny, especially how he just so casually says it. But also it really shows again how Chloe wants to be liked. She wishes the kids would laugh when she makes comments, but it's because they're said in a serious/obnoxious way, instead of making light of something like in Rose's case here, that they don't. I know she talked about it with Ladybug in an episode, but it again shows that that's what she'd like. All that needs to happen is someone helping her get there. Maybe Zoe and Luka will somehow help with that later on. Anyway, this was a really great episode! I feel like some things might not make quite as much sense as they should if we got it in order, but what can you do when Gloob has to air them? Even a friend of mine who's been doing what she can to avoid spoilers, still got spoiled. She's having to delete tumblr to avoid future spoilers because people can't help themselves and tag things properly. So thanks Gloob. :P All we wanted was the episodes in order. We've waited this long for S4, we can wait a bit longer. But they gotta make money I guess. I'm glad other countries are trying their best to keep it in order anyway. c: Guiltrip also has some really great Adrienette moments, and covered a more serious topic which was really interesting and shows how much the show's changing. Especially with some of the choice of camera angles and movements! Like the zoom-in on the door with Adrien and Marinette, the boys LE GASP scene. Very cool artistic choices! Looking forward to the episodes that come before this one to try to help fill in some of the gaps! And apologies to those that frequently read these posts from me, I started writing it up late and couldn't finish so you get it the day after instead. xD

[deviant-yarrow]

Transformers Prime in an Avatar AU?

👏👏👏 Geeking time boyyss- and gals, and everything in-between!!

(ALSO SPOILERS FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T WATCHED THE ENTIRETY OF TFP OR HAVE WATCHED AVATAR YET)

So I've been thinking- for about the entirety of last night about what bender everybody would be in Transformers: Prime and it has kept me up since 3 AM thinking about it. So I've come to bestow upon you my ✨Opinion✨ on what I believe each of them would be. I will also base it around what Master Iroh has previously said about each. Again! This is just an opinion so feel free to discuss with me about in by ask box! Before we begin though. I'll tell you what each of the bending means according to the words of Iroh,

⛰️: Earth is the element of substance. The people of the Earth Kingdom are diverse and strong. They are persistent and enduring.

🌊: Water is the element of change. The people of the Water Tribe are capable of adapting to many things. They have a deep sense of community and love that holds them together through anything.

🔥: Fire is the element of power. The people of the Fire Nation have desire and will and the energy and drive to achieve what they want.

🌪️: Air is the element of freedom. The Air Nomads detached themselves from worldly concerns and found peace and freedom.

Now that we've gotten that known: Let's start with the Autobots

(Avatar Au w/ Decepticons is here: https://deviant-yarrow.tumblr.com/post/654542347812683776/transformers-prime-in-an-avatar-au-part-2 )

Optimus Prime -

- No doubt, would be an Avatar because y'know, Last of The Primes? The Last Avatar? Sound familiar?

- Now, I have a hard time chosing whether he could be a Water Bender or an Earth Bender (I wouldn't say he's an Air Bender because- well he didn't necessarily detach to the idea of when the war began he fought and led an entire faction! But he could be an Air Bender due to how calm he was normally during times of chaos).

- With the Earth Bender idea, I can see that he's been a bot that has faced through a LOT of stuff, both mentally and physically but he still manages to keep going because he wants to end the war and lead his team.

- His desire to lead the team is also what brings me to assume that he could be a Water Bender. He definitely has a deep bond with his team and his care for them has what led for him to do some pretty life-threatening things.

Ultra Magnus -

- I feel like Ultra Magnus would be a Water Bender because this boy right here (*slaps roof of car*) has definitely gone through some change.

- In the beginning, his only mindset were that the people around him were soldiers, not entirely family, sure he'd protect them but there was no real "care" there in-between it

- I find it really intriguing if there was just a time where Ultra Magnus didn't have a sense of community and love and he was just all stern and somewhat commanding despite that being what Water Benders were known for their y'know love and community.

- He did change halfway through the series though, mentally and had finally accepted their entire team as a family which was a nice touch.

Ratchet -

- Since he is the medic of the group I think being a Water Bender would benefit the "healing" part to his job

- Plus he did undergo some changes as well in regards to being around humans. With y'know them rubbing off on him and such.

Arcee -

- I would say Arcee is a Water Bender - I'd say because for both the adapting part and because she gives me Kitara vibes.

- She lost two partners and for that she sort of isolated herself with Jack when they first met but throughout the episodes and seasons she's manage to break down her walls and treat him as something more than just an accidental find in an alleyway (which is not wrong but you get the point)

Bulkhead -

- No doubt, hands down, Earth Bender

- The only reason I can find to back this up would be the times where he has survived SOMEHOW?? Through the most craziest things as well. He's managed to hold up an entire cave from caving in, an entire horde of scraplets from eating him alive, and he's managed to survive being infected by Tox-En. Although that isn't much in number of stuff to survive, it's a matter of quality over quantity (the negative version if there is one).

- Maybe also because he's a Wrecker (which I assume would be the equivalent of the Earth Nation in this AU) and they work with the motto of: "Breaking and making things". I don't know how to elaborate on this part but-- he's just got the energy for it.

Bumblebee -

- I believe the scout would've been a Fire Bender or an Air Bender. - My reason for this would've been due to an interesting idea I had in mind with the Fire Bender thing because since Megatron, in this AU I have, is a Fire Bender. I'd like to imagine that with the Cortical Psychic Patch or the equivalent of it during this time (like some sort of ritual that leads to telepathy) it would require a bender of the same nation to speak with him during his time unconscious-

- An additional idea I had with this is that Bee was probably the many who didn't want to fight alongside Megatron despite being in the same nation, so it would- kind of lead to a fight between them with Megatron obviously overpowering them and just saying something along the lines of, "You would've been a formidable soldier... Pity," or something along the lines of that before taking their ability to speak away (whether it'd be like burning or tearing out his vocal chords or just another way that would somewhat make sense).

- More rambling stuff: I'd like to also believe that with his history being a Fire Bender and all, he feels like he's the MOST connected to Megatron despite being an Autobot because of what they said before taking his voice and also because he used to be in the same nation (not the same as faction).

Smokescreen -

This boyo would probs be an Air Bender or Water Bender

- As Water Bender, he DID go through some changes in maturing and all that- with the addition that he'd be a kid who'd also work with Arcee since they're both benders of the same nation. I feel like that'd spark some sort of interesting development to his change in maturing.

- Instead of his belief in being a hero, I think he'd have a mindset in believing "Yeah! I'm gonna be the next avatar!" while Optimus Prime is just there going: 👍

- With being an Air Bender he'd probably be even more compelled to the idea that he has the potentiality to BE THE NEXT AVATAR because normally he'd assume that Air Benders had the more chance of becoming the Avatar because of stories he'd hear

- He also has like Aang's sort of childish and reckless nature in the first few episodes we meet Smokescreen in, so I'd probably count that too as a connection to being an Air Bender.

Wheeljack -

- I think it'd be obvious that this man is a Fire Bender - He loves explosions.

- He IS the explosion.

- Wheeljack, likes to be a mech of power and he deals with a lot of well explosions and fire stuff- so I believe it'd be his forte and it would be in his blood almost to be a Fire Bender.

- Though there was something in the back of my head that argued: "Oh but what if he's an Earth Bender?????" THAT TOO WORKS OUT BECAUSE OF HIS RELATION WITH BULKHEAD-

- There was also like a comment in the back of my head I made where Wheeljack could've also been like... An Air Bender?? Since he was like previously a Neutral of sorts with the idea that joining Autobots and Decepticons were both not in his favor so he went off on his own.

- I'd also like to think, as an Air Bender, he didn't like the way they did stuff with being calm and collected since that had opposed his rather-- how shall I put this, "feral" behavior.

- It'd also be a good reason for both him an Optimus (if he were to be an Air Bender) to have beef due to their opposing beliefs- and not just because he was the leader of the Autobots.

Extra: - Cliffjumper was probably also a Water Bender with Arcee. He gave me Sokka sort of vibes.

[anzcty]

Analysing Episode 6 Sylvie - her actions, her choice and a whole bunch of theories (Spoilers!)

After watching the Loki finale, I have been scrolling through Tumblr for quite a long time. I already knew that people's opinions were gonna be incredibly different but I definitely did not expect this much negative backlash. Especially when it comes to two specific topics - the Sylvie and Loki kiss and Sylvie's betrayal (/choice/actions). I'm gonna be talking about the latter, for it is another time I'll talk a lot about Sylki's relationship. (Beware that this post is also really long though)

First of all, everyone has different opinions and I respect that. I absolutely adore movies, books, TV-shows and videogames because despite what's happening within the story, each viewer has the opportunity to see something else in what they are shown (besides the obvious canon). What I mean is that everyone interprets certain scenes differently and gains the opportunity to make up theories. Therefore I want to clarify that I do, by no means, want to force my views upon others. It's nice to see people talk about the Loki Series (as long as it doesn't get too negative and hateful, iykwim) because every viewer can share their specific experiences with it :)

I'm gonna analyse Sylvie's character a bit ( because, well, I'm bored and I kinda wanna protect my beloved character that I've only had for a few weeks >:^0 AND the only thing I could think about the past day was this episode) and try to explain her actions in the finale (keep in mind: not justifying them, but explaining them).

I'm terribly bad at concentrating on one single topic point so I kinda made a 'list' with questions and whatnot that I wanted to dive deeper into. Your thoughts are also more than welcome!

I already want to apologise for grammatical mistakes, for I am not a native english speaker.

Sylvie's reason for being taken away by the TVA is still kinda unknown

You know, I've heard quite a few theories about Sylvie's nexus event by now. Some people say that she got taken away because she was playing with her toys in a way that indicates her having a good heart (playing as a Valkyrie and wanting to save someone, another hint may also be the reaction she showed towards someone else who got kidnapped by the TVA, yelling at the soldiers to "help them out"). Another theory is that she already knew she was adopted, unlike Loki who found out way later than her. Please correct me if I'm wrong, but we never got to hear the actual reason why Sylvie got kidnapped. Even Renslayer didn't say a word about it.

Now I'm gonna come up with yet another theory. What if Sylvie didn't really have a nexus event in the first place how we know it? In the final episode, Kang has said that he has planned out everything beforehand so both Loki and Sylvie would end up right in front of him. Did Kang's plan also possibly involve him getting killed by Sylvie? Hear me out: We don't actually know if the Kang we saw in episode 6 is the actual 'nice' Kang and not one of his evil variants. He has already talked about 'reincarnation', so who says that after ending the first universial war, Kang didn't reincarnate into someone with an unpure heart (aka, one of his evil variants)? That'd mean that the real Kang would have been killed and the Kang we've seen in the finale is actually an evil version that simply lied to both Loki and Sylvie. Besides that, we also don't know if Kang actually had that 'point' where he didn't know what would happen next. The show revolves a whole lot around trust, not only regarding the characters, but also the viewers. Who's to say that Kang said the truth? Maybe he planned it all out: He created the TVA, let Sylvie get kidnapped and therefore give her a reason to hunt after Kang, who in return could reincarnate if he got killed OR get killed and therefore give his other variants a possibility to conquer the universes yet again. Don't you think that it was kinda suspicious that Sylvie escaped so easily out of Renslayer's hands? The one person who's probably closest to Kang? (Even though, yes, she doesn't know who he is but Renslayer seems to play a very important role in his plan). What if the Kang we saw was the nice Kang though? Would he plan everything up to a point where another universial war would break out because he might know that there is indeed something/someone out there who could end it and therefore, possibly end Kang as a whole or create a new kind of system revolving around the universe? And therefore, get rid of the possibility of another universial war happening? Who knows. I am definitely overthinking and reaching at this point. One more thing that stood out to me while thinking about the episode again today (which kinda weighs more into my theory of Sylvie being a keypoint (or rather a puppet) in this plan): Kang has talked about his Tempad and that he knew that he would need it to have enough energy. But for what? Yes, his initial idea was to give it to Loki and Sylvie to rule over the TVA, but what if it was supposed to be used for another reason? Sylvie used it to transport Loki back to the TVA (though I kinda think he was accidentally transported to another timeline, hence the reactions of both Mobius and Hunter B-15) and therefore get rid of the only thing that could prevent Sylvie from killing Kang. The Tempad was used to secure Sylvie's path and therefore eradicated Kang's only option of safety. You can see the Tempad loosing it's glow after Kang was killed, possibly due to Kang himself being the origin of it's energy. But maybe, it only had enough energy for one specific action: getting rid of Kang's protection. I do think that Sylvie is now stuck at this place and somehow has to find a way back to Loki's reality. The Tempad clearly doesn't work anymore (at least in my opinion) and there was quite a long shot showing the Tempad up close, which is kinda suspicious tbh. Also, something regarding Sylvie's unanswered nexus event feels kinda odd to me, too.

My theory in conclusion: Sylvie (and Loki) are unconciously helping Kang with his plan (a big, big, BIG plan). They're his puppets, especially Sylvie, because she's the one who created the Multiverse to begin with. Think about Loki, who was said to be manipulated by Thanos in Avengers? It's basically the same train of thoughts.

Sylvie does not take Kang's offer into consideration

To be honest, this was something to be absolutely expected of her. Sylvie was kidnapped as a child, taken away from her home and family, and had to grow up in countless apocalypses where she could never form a real bond with anybody because she knew that those people were all going to die anyway. (Please don't judge me if I got that wrong, maybe I understood the next thing wrong? Idk, if so, I'm very sorry) She revealed that she was kidnapped way before Loki was even born (something I have to think about, too, because, if Loki is the actual Loki the other variants are based off, why did he exist after Sylvie? Wouldn't that make him a variant of Sylvie instead? Idk timelines and parallel universes are hard to understand for me :') I'm kinda stoopid ), therefore she must've had spent several decades of her life running away. She had no life at all. Her only goal was to bring down the TVA and whoever is behind it, driven by pure rage, seeking out revenge for stealing her life and basically forbidding her existence. And now that she has found said person, the only thing that'd be right for her character would be to go for the kill. As immoral as it may sound, it is the only thing that makes sense. And I am actually very happy that Sylvie's goals didn't change besides the fact that she did indeed soften up a little and has gotten someone really close to her. In contrary, it makes sense for Loki to do the exact opposite. His goals have changed. He does not act the way he did in Thor or Avengers anymore. He has found another goal for himself: to make Sylvie feel alright. He has had immense character growth and didn't take a chance to change his goals back in the Thor movies or in Avengers, (....maybe later in Thor: Ragnarok, kinda). This is exactly what I think might happen to Sylvie, too. She is at the beginning of her character arc. She doesn't take the chance to change her goal, but goes for her original goal instead. Said goal does not really have positive consequences (though, maybe it might have some? We're about to find out), which results in a so called 'negative character development', which Loki has already gone through. I think that Sylvie is gonna grow as a character in season 2 and get a positive character development in addition, just like Loki did. I highly doubt that she's gonna become the antagonist, it does not make sense at this point.

Why does she not take Kang's offer (besides her very obvious intention ofc)? That leads straight (or not so straight, pun intended) to the next thing I wanna talk about. Sylvie's distrust in everything and everyone. Besides not wanting to let other people go through what she has been gone through and wanting to let people have a free will, she also does not trust Kang with his offer of 'ruling' the timeline. And it might be because she also does not trust the one she'd be ruling with: Loki.

Why does Sylvie not trust Loki?

I don't even have a specific answer to that, except that Sylvie has an incredibly thick wall built up around her. Loki has always been portrayed as the one you should not trust because he's known for backstabbing people. Loki could have thought the same about Sylvie, but he didn't. Due to his character arc, he himself has learned to trust other people and tries to redeem himself with making himself a person others can trust (He may project that onto Sylvie, meaning that he puts his trust into a Loki variant and therefore in himself, too). You can connect that fact with both Sylvie and Mobius. They're both people who are incredibly important to Loki. He wants them to trust him. He openly told Sylvie about his mistakes and tells her that he's not that person anymore. Sylvie on the other hand does not trust that easily and is - in my opinion - a very important key regarding Loki's character development. It is incredibly hard for Sylvie to trust others (probably due to her trauma) and it therefore creates a very difficult situation for Loki, where he has to 'prove' himself as trustworthy. It's basically about 'trusting yourself' if you put it that way. It's something Loki has to learn about himself: not betraying the trust of others. Sylvie might have to learn something like this, too: learning to trust someone else. It's kinda like a two sided coin - one side is about putting trust in others, whereas the other is about gaining trust from others (and what you do with it). (Good) Relationships in general are always based off trust and honesty. So in order for them to be able to have healthy relationships with others and themselves, they have to learn about trust within themselves (I hope you understand my point, I got carried away, sorry). Loki started to trust Sylvie very easily (maybe because of love? Maybe because of something else? There are still a lot of unanswered questions) whereas Sylvie doesn't trust Loki very easily. Sylvie's character arc might (hopefully) carry on with this topic in the next season.

Was that kiss initiated due to emotional or practical reasons?

Kinda both, somehow. I do think that Sylvie used the kiss to her advantage but you can also clearly see how moved she is while hearing Loki's words. Facial expressions are insanely important when it comes to acting and both Tom and Sophia delivered perfectly. You might've already heard of the quote "The eyes tell more than words could ever say". Look at Sylvie's face when Loki tells her that he wants her to be okay. She is teary eyed, sighs even. She is indeed touched by his words and I strongly think that Sylvie also has non-platonic feelings for Loki, despite barely showing anything.

Here's a snippet out of an interview with Sophia:

(Source)

Both Sylvie and Loki are said to be people who can not trust others. They both have a vulnerable side though. Loki clearly showed that several times when with Sylvie (singing to her, the blanket scene, the comfort scene in the room of the timekeepers, the confession of wanting her to be okay) and is also shown incredibly vulnerable at the end of episode 6: there are several shots showing him, crying. Sure, we have already seen Loki cry a few times beforehand but this time, it's different. He cries because the one person he is the most vulnerable with doesn't trust him, and that does hurt like hell. By the way, if you look at the close-up shot of Sylvie after she yeeted Loki back into the TVA, you can see pain in her eyes, too. But that pain quickly shifts into rage and determination. Something that I have to admit was incredibly well executed by Sophia and the people who directed this shot. Sylvie does show her vulnerable side for a brief moment before putting up her walls again and reaching for her goal.

In conclusion: I think Sylvie initiated the kiss as an emotional response to Loki's words but also used it to distract him to be able to kick him back into the TVA at the same time. Keep in mind that it was because he was in her way of fullfilling her goal. She didn't want to kill or hurt him, so she sent him away instead. So, yes, I think the kiss had both emotional and practical intentions.

Did Sylvie betray Loki?

Even though it really felt like she betrayed him, she didn't. Let me tell you why:

Loki knew exactly what Sylvie was gonna do after reaching the person behind the TVA. Loki supported her all the way up until Kang suggested a deal to them, that's where Loki's and Sylvie's paths divided. Loki is a very smart character, he outsmarts a lot of Marvel characters and therefore I think it's very in character for him to consider one part of the deal and outweigh the pros and cons. Not because he wants the throne, no, but because he wants Sylvie to be okay. A universial war could lead to countless casualties - possibly those people close around him, so of course he would want to keep her safe through that decision. Making them both rulers over the TVA and the sacred timeline would probably guarantee a strong protection from several threats. Also, maybe he thought about the possibility of Sylvie regretting her decision (which she clearly did in the end) and wanted to protect her from even more emotional pain. But as we know, Sylvie's intention has always been laid out in front of her and it didn't change. Loki knew what choice she was going to make and merely tried to change her way - without being successfull.

I don't really know what to think about this scene though. To me, it doesn't meet the requirements of a 'betrayal' but at the same time it does feel like one. It's very difficult to explain :'D

Also, I've seen some people asking themselves how or if Loki will ever be able to forgive Sylvie for making her decision. Let me assure you one thing: he will forgive her. He has said it himself: "I know what you're feeling, I know what you're going through". He has been at Sylvie's point, too. Not only once, but several times already. He seems to have learned from his mistakes, Sylvie has yet to do so. ("I betrayed everyone I've ever loved" is a line to keep in mind now, too. Maybe it could even be projected onto Sylvie this time, because Loki is indeed very dear to her) If there's someone out there who can empathise with Sylvie the most, it is Loki.

Why would Sylvie straight up cause another Universial War?

As I already said. Sylvie's arc is a negative character arc. It does not end well and causes a lot of chaos. Think about Peter Quill in Infinity War and his rage moment on Titan. They could have had the infinity gauntlet way before but Peter got emotional (understandable) and therefore destroyed the chance of an early good ending. The same happened with Sylvie. Her decision was mostly emotional, but also practical on the other hand (giving people free will and freedom). She will face the consequences and I'm pretty sure she's gonna redeem herself and tries to help fix the big mess she has caused.

Sylvie's breakdown

Another scene that was absolutely brilliant was the scene after Sylvie has killed Kang. She backs off slowly and then slumps to the ground, breathing heavily (now that I think about it, I think she even started to cry). She has waited for this moment her whole life, but now that it's done, it kinda feels like she didn't exactly get what she needed. Hunter B-15 has already mentioned it before that Sylvie needs to hunt the person behind the TVA down, unlike Renslayer, who only wants to find out who it really is. Although Sylvie might have recognized that this wasn't everything she needed at this point. We already got to know that she didn't have a clue what to do after she's done with the TVA. She didn't have a goal beyond that. And now that she has reached the point where she is clueless, she might have recognized what she really needed beyond finishing her goal: friends, a life, literally anything that doesn't make her feel alone. And she literally just kicked that one thing away from her. Loki, the one person who has been closest to her and gave her the feeling of not being alone anymore, the feeling of having a friend (or someone more than a friend), has been pushed away by herself. I think that in this exact moment where she sinks to the ground she recognizes that not trusting Loki was a mistake this time and that revenge isn't enough to satisfy her forever.

But maybe that one thing that will satisfy her for a long time is something she's returning back to in season 2. I am so excited to see her again and find out more about Sylvie's character!

Thank you so much for reading this! If you want to add something to this list or correct something or anything, feel free to do so. I'd love to hear your thoughts on Sylvie's character in the finale and what you think might happen with her in season 2 :) see y'all, stay safe and have a nice day/night!

[queen-of-my-goofball-army]

"BYEEE" (Hunter, aka Golden Guard Owl House.)

"The best thing about my type being "goofballs" is the many different forms and shapes that it can take. We can have idiot himbo goofballs, or goofballs that are given comedic facial expressions who are dorky and just need to be protected." (Me)

This is the last cartoon husbando that I have actually. It's also the latest one of course considering that he was just introduced earlier this year. Even though we've only seen this character in three episodes so far I've already fallen hook, line, and sinker for him. But that's getting ahead of myself. Let's talk about Golden Guard aka Hunter.

If I were to compare him to anyone that I've encountered during my years of watching cartoons he'd be like a toss up between Prince Zuko in Avatar, Varian in We first meet Hunter as we see that somebody has taken Lilith's place as the new face of the Emperor's Coven. She describes him as an entitled child, a prodigy with magic. However, we later find out that he isn't just the head of the emperors coven. He's also just a kid who's been through a lot. He tries his best to be there and support his uncle despite everything that he's been through with him. Despite the abuse that he puts Hunter through he just keeps coming back. We also learn that Hunter is powerless in a world that relies solely on magic and the ability to do magic.

One of the first things that I noticed about Hunter was just how genuinely sassy and snarky he was as the Golden Guard. Not many people can call King a rat and live to see tomorrow. His snark is definitely amplified when he's the Golden Guard as he is able to hide his pain behind that literal mask. His "BYEE" is still one of the most iconic things ever and when I heard it with the mask off I literally cried laughing. His sass and his snark paired perfectly with the voice acting done by my favorite "lazy" pro hero Hawks's VA Zeno Robinson was dream casting for Hunter. Both of them rely on on their wits and their sense of humor as a dodge even though both of them have definitely seen their fair share of trauma. I can't think of a better person that should've been casted for him though other than my second favorite pro hero's voice actor.

When he first takes the mask off that was when I knew that he was something different. He wasn't just a snarky character he was somebody that had seen hell. He has to fight every day to try and save someone who doesn't care about him in return. Despite everything though Hunter continues to do the research to make his uncle "proud of him". This is what truly breaks my heart. How much he sacrifices for his uncle when he could be out there with Lil Rascal living his life happy and carefree, like a regular kid, when he doesn't get jack in return from his uncle other than his scars. I love getting to watch his budding relationship with his palasmin even though it's clear that he's still scared I hope that one day he'll get into a happier home *Eda another kid needs your adoption*.

Even though I haven't known Hunter for very long, only about a week and a half, I'm already enamored with his personality. I hope for the best of his development and that he learns that he doesn't deserve to be treated the way that he is by Belios and leaves the castle. I know that he'll be happier on the other side. I can't wait to see more of this character now that I'm all caught up with the newer episodes on Disney+! I can't wait for the next set of five episodes, but until then I'll wait patiently for more Hunter/Golden Guard content.

[casmybelovedass]

The Destiel Folder: Season 7

[Season 4; Season 5; Season 6]

This season is mostly Dean being a depressed bi who can't cope with his crush's death.

This is, in my opinion, the season where Dean actually starts realizing he might for real think of Cas as something more.

Episode 1:

Cas is basically gone, both Bobby and Sam (almost) are ready to compel to whatever he says, but Dean still tries to get him to come back. "You can turn this around. Please!" (3:13) Denial

Dean has no idea how to deal with God!Castiel, but desperate to find him, and getting emotional "I don't even know what book to hit for this." "Then figure it out!" (5:47) Anger

As we have said many times already, angels don't have a sex, Castiel is not a man, and as he states, he is "utterly indifferent to sexual orientation" (8:03), and so is Chuck, God himself, who has admitted having had both girlfriends and boyfriends.

Dean turns off the news the moment he hears a woman describe Cas as "young and sexy", while doing that jaw clentch thing of his (10:14) ... huh... [and this doesn't really matter, but after this we immediately see Dean in a purple flannel. PURPLE! Go Bi!Dean]

"He's not a guy, he's a God [...] Cas is never coming back. He's lied to us, he's used us, he's cracked your gourd like it was nothing. No more talk. We've spent enough on him." (11:09) Dean trying to jump to the 5th stage of grief. Yeah, no baby that's not how it works

Dean tries so hard to convince himself that Cas's gone so he can kill him, but can't really. "Just kill him now!" and struggles hard to hold Castiel's glare. And as soon as Death offers a second option to killing him, Dean takes it. Bargening

"Dean, look, I know you think Cas is gone." "That's because he is." (31:22) Again with trying to jump to acceptance. Not doing great, Dean. In fact, "Yeah, you know how I'm gonna deal? I'm gonna stuff my pie hole, I'm gonna drink, and I'm gonna watch some asian cartoon porn. And act like the world's about to explode, because it is." (32:17) There it is. Depression.

[Remember this: Dean has no shame in watching porn in front of his brother. Wait a few seasons and see]

Just moments earlier, Dean was all "That's not Cas, Cas is dead" and shit, and now he goes "What? You need something else?" worried-husband-mode the moment Cas asks for help (34:50). Also#MARRIED (35:16)

Bobby: "Where's Sam? It's go time." Dean: *looks back at Cas worried* (37:12)

MUST HELP HUSBAND (38:06) look at Dean's eyes!!! They're like 'It's okay, it's okay. You've got this.' "I'm sorry, Dean." Cas chose these words to be his last, thinking he was going to die. LOOK AT DEAN (38:21) ICWAW this would MEAN SOMETHING ELSE

"CAS! [...] Is he breathing? ... Maybe angels don't need to breathe." says the one who was going around saying Cas was gone for good. "He's gone, Dean." "... damn it... *tears up* Cas, you child... Why didn't you listen to me." #MARRIED (39:15) Then he goes "CAS?!" as soon as he starts breathing again. ICWAW, we would SCREAM "LOVE" in this scene

"Imma find some way to redeem myself to you *looks at Dean straight in the eyes*" "*looks at Cas up and down*... Alright, well, one thing at the time, come on. Let's get you out of here." "I mean it, Dean." *eye love-making* "... Okay." (40:30) ICWAW, oooohhh, the meanings this scene would have...

Dean's face when the Leviathans tell him Cas is dead. Again. (41:18)

Episode 2:

Dean looking at the Leviathans occupying Cas' body. The HATE (1:44)

"... okay... so he's gone. *shakes while tearing up* [...] Dumb son of a bitch..." (5:14) Here we go again... I'm fine, shut up

Dean picks up, washes, folds and keeps Cas' coat (5:23) SWEET

"You just lost one of the best friends you've ever had." this hurts me. "... I'm fine, really." (12:11)

"You asked me how I was doing? Well, not good." (38:54)

Episode 5:

Dean progressively drinks more as his nightmares get worse and he misses Cas more and more. 3 times we see him drink, only in the first 12 minutes.

Sam can tell Dean feels like shit, and bet one of those reasons is Cas "Like it or not, the stuff you don't talk about, it doesn't just go away. It builds up." (39:33) Yeah, and not only problems or grief... even love

Episode 7:

Not a destiel moment, but Dean totally got hit on by the waiter. LOL (7:30)

And again. What is it with men in this town and Dean. "We're looking for a necklace." "Romantic. *looks at Dean*" (12:17). Is it an energy reading thing or something? Can they feel the bi energy?

"The Campbell brothers. [...] They weren't actually brothers. That was a cover for their, uhm... alternative life style." (22:40) Huh... I guess calling your lover "brother" runs in the family

"Ever since Cas... I'm having a hard time trusting anybody." (40:44) ouch

Episode 9:

Dean is drunk/high on Leviathan juice, and the first thing he thinks and blabbers about, is Cas (19:48) "I don't even care anymore." Oooohh ICWAW... the possibilities for this scene

Episode 12:

Dean totally checked out that man in uniform. FIGHT ME (16:27)

Episode 13:

"You're head's not in it, man. When Cas died, you were wobbly, but now-" "Now what!!" (39:35) as soon as Sam mentions Cas' death, Dean gets snappy

Episode 17:

Dean keeps getting snappy whenever Sam mentions Cas

"OH my God the love of my life is alive!" (13:02-13:06)

Dean's face when Daphne touches Cas (13:25), and when he calls her his wife (13:41)

AND HIS FUCKING FACE TRYING NOT TO TEAR UP BECAUSE CAS DOESN'T REMEMBER ANYTHING ABOUT HIM (14:16)

You mean to tell me that ICWAW this wouldn't be seen as a mini desperation moment from a man seeing his lover in this situation? Yeah, I don't think so

"What if you were some sort of... I don't know, bad guy." "I... I don't feel like a bad person." Dean's face is like "Damn right you aren't" (16:50)

"He betrayed you, this dude. He was your friend?" Dean looking at him... can't even answer the question (19:59)

Dean says Cas' betrayal is something he cant get over like everything else. And that he doesn't know why. "It doesn't matter why." "Of course it matters!" (20:25)

Dean gets visibly uneasy about Meg being so close to Cas (25:34) jealous boyfriend is jealous

Dean doesn't want Cas to remember, afraid he'll leave again (32:18)

"I've known you for years!" (32:34) poor baby. Also "You're an angel." "Uhm, I'm sorry? Is that a flirtation?" DEAN'S FACE (32:42)

Dean doesn't want Cas to be hurt by his own memories and past actions (33:00)

"You used to fight together. Bestest friends, actually." Yeah, look at that reaction. Let's see how he reacts to being called his boyfriend later on (33:09)

#MARRIED!!! I'll just leave this. No comment (33:41)

As Cas regains his memories, only 2 of the ones we see are not of Dean. And the only one we hear is the "I'm sorry, Dean." . That is what matters to Cas (and this looks like a slash video. Kudos to the editors) "I remember you... I remember everything." Yeah, no-homo save (34:35)

Not even an hour earlier, Dean was ranting about Cas betraying him, how he couldn't forget and forgive him, and now he is saying Cas did "the best you could at the time", but Cas actually feels guilt and doesn't want Dean to defend him, but Dean does anyway (36:53)

"We didn't part as friends, Dean." "*looks at Cas up and down*... So what?" "I deserved to die." the look on Dean's face (37:18)

Dean gives Cas his trench coat back. The trench coat he kept, folded and all the the truck, for weeks. And that's not even Baby. So he moved the coat, to always have it with him (37:26). I'm not crying, shut up

Also, here, have a deleted scene that breaks my heart

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Episode 20:

Let us all appreciate that one time Dean helped a lesbian flirt with a dude (24:27-25:03)

Episode 21:

Dean is devastated about Cas' mental state, that he did that to himself to save Sam. Look at his eyes in this scene (16:08). Also, Dean still resents Cas for the whole 'New God' crap, but it feels like the real reason is the fact that he left (19:18)

"Cas! Don't make me pull this car over!" "Are you angry? Why are you angry? *puppy eyes*" "... No I-I'm..." #MARRIED (27:28)

Cas says he won't fight anymore, but as soon as Dean's in trouble, he FLIPS

"The angels... they don't care... I think maybe they don't have the equipment to care." (31:49) Touchy much, Dean?, are you trying to convince yourself about that? It feels like he's making excuses to not let himself feel anything for Cas. "It seems like when they try, it just... breaks them apart." ... OK, fuck everything, ICWAW this would totally be seen as romantic angsty reference to Cas

Cas is so lost in his guilt for what he has caused. He looks like a baby, and it gets worse when it comes to Dean

"Why should we give you anything? After everything you have taken from us? The very touch of you curropts. When Castiel first laid a hand on you in Hell, he was lost!" (36:50) okay damn, ICWAW all of this would seem as if they were talking about a love relationship between the two and you can't tell me otherwise

'HURT HUSBAND-MUST PROTECT MODE' (37:17)

"The bone of a righteous mortal and the blood of a fallen angel" ... shut up, I'm dying over these clues (39:11)

"What are you gonna do, Cas?" Dean's eyes are begging him to stay. ICWAW, we would point that out without a shadow of a doubt (39:40)

Episode 23:

"Dude... on my car. He showed up naked... covered in bees!" ... come on, ICWAW this would be a HUGE deal (5:10)

"Go ask him. He was your boyfriend first." (8:51) LISTEN HERE. I study psychology, and one of the first things they teach you is that jokes are based on the truth. HOW MANY OF THESE JOKES WERE MADE?! HUH??!! (plus all the "Dick" jokes Sam made) Also Dean's reaction with the jaw clentch... just saying

Cas keeps stating he doesn't want to fight, but again, Dean's in trouble? FIGHT MODE

"*soft shoulder touch, puppy eyes, serves Dean a sandwich*" ... SOFT #MARRIED COUPLE (18:27)

"You got anything to say on the topic of dicks?" you'd like that, wouldn't you, Dean? (26:42)

Cas is afraid he will do something to cause Dean more trouble. Let's remember he chose what he believed were his last words to be "I'm sorry, Dean.", but as we know, Dean deals with feelings by showing anger... Cas gets upset and copes by playing twister... pathetic. "I can't help. [...] I destroyed everything and I will destroy everything again!" for a moment, Cas is lucid, and expresses his fear, but as soon as Dean gets angry with him, Cas gows back to hide in his world of crazy (26:47)

"I'm not good luck, Dean." "... You know what? [...] I'd rather have you. Cursed or not." Look at Cas' soft little smile as it grows. ICWAW, this would be read as another confession (32:38)

"I'll go with you." SOFT

SEE??! The MOMENT Dick threatens Dean, Cas goes full Angel of the Lord on his ass. MUST PROTECT HUSBAND (36:52) and the utter shock on Dean's face is priceless

And here comes PurGAYtory

[Season 8>>]

[rpmemesbyarat]

RP Meme Lines from "AHS: Coven" Episode 13: "The Seven Wonders"

I've chosen caviar from the Caspian Sea served on blinis along with champagne as fitting stand-ins as we partake of our own last supper.

When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I understood like a child, I thought like a child. But when I became a woman, I put aside childish things.

Put aside fears, reservations and petty things.

Kick ass tomorrow.

What if I can't do it?

Almost sounds like you want it.

Commonly only known to the public as mind control. It's a tricky little craft. When properly exercised, can bend the strongest of wills to your desire.

Nobody controls my mind but me.

Knock it off!

Ow! Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow!

Well done.

I'm not done.

Now, lick it.

That's enough. Let's move on.

Having fun yet?

If your soul hasn't returned to your body by sunup, you'll die.

You're the first to return.

It was horrible. I was stuck on a network musical. It was a live version of The Sound of Music. I wasn't even the lead.

I'm right here, it's okay.

Freak. You're a freak.

No, I don't wanna kill a living thing.

No, you can't make me kill a living thing.

We have to help her.

There's nothing we can do.

Follow my voice.

You're a stone-cold bitch.

When you play with fire, you get burned.

Tag, you're it.

Gotcha. No tag-backs.

Can't we just have a little fun?

Suck it. Ha-ha-ha!

Nothing's happening.

What's "deserve" got to do with any of this?

So either crown me or kiss my ass.

I can feel all their eyes on me.

Maybe we deserve to die out.

Why did you leave me? You said you'd never leave me

My mother was always right.

How true is it that a prophet is never recognized in his own country?

Well, I guess it's different when it's your own family.

You have royal blood in your veins.

I was a fool not to have realized it earlier, seeking all this time in the dust for that which may have been right before us all along.

You must let it out.

I'd stake your life on it.

I'm not stupid.

Are you ready?

What did you see?

This thing started as a competition. I say we end it like one.

Divination. Let's rock.

This is stupid. I'm not doing it.

Let me show you real power.

Divination first.

We're doing this by the book.

I'm sick of your book.

I have so many powers, I could tear this room apart until there's nothing left but your little trinkets, but, no, I have to do this bullshit.

There's something in the thing.

Because the game is rigged, [NAME]. Wake up.

You would accuse us of chicanery?

I didn't even wanna come here.

I'm going back to Hollywood where people are normal.

I suggest you change the locks, because when I tell TMZ everything it won't be long before torches, pitchforks, and Molotov cocktails become a real big part of your day.

Peace out!

What do you want, dumb-ass?

You let her die.

Why did you let her die?

You know that dark place! We've both been there!

I did it for us.

You're not that good an actress.

No one will wonder where the body went once we bury her.

Since your extraordinary public statement last month there has been quite a bit of fanfare.

We are not a cult. We don't proselytize. We have no agenda. We're not recruiting.

Women who identify as witches are born as such and their abilities, which we call powers are part of who they are, part of their DNA, if you will.

So in fact, you're saying that it's not a choice, being a witch.

There are so many young witches who have resisted their calling because they're afraid of how they may be perceived, or what's expected of them.

But you know, when you hide in the shadows, you are less visible, you have less protection.

We'll always be targets for the ignorant. It is what it is.

There is a home and a family waiting for you.

I'm so proud of you.

Start by telling them that being an authority figure requires you to make hard, unpopular decisions for the greater good.

Your tasteful modesty is out of fashion, so knock it off.

Thanks to you, we're entering a new era.

You've planted the seeds but in order to reap their harvest, you have to clear the rot of the past.

I love your metaphors, but I have no idea what you're talking about.

I'm not suggesting. I'm insisting.

You want to be burned at the stake?

At the start of your glorious reign the last thing you need is an ABSCAM or Watergate.

I killed and I must pay for it.

I didn't hear this.

I've made many painful mistakes in my life. I want my death to have some meaning.

Stiff upper lip, my dear.

You cannot be a hypocrite. I won't stand for it.

Any last words?

Balenciaga!

I'm excited. I wanna get in there and show what I can do.

You gotta check this shit out. Line's around the block.

We'll buy more houses if we have to.

I got your back.

Should we open the doors now?

There's just one more thing I need to deal with.

I saw you die.

You men, with your fragile egos.

We still have a deal, babe.

I'm going to Paris for just a couple days.

Why? Why would she decide to do that?

I mean, it won't be pleasant for you. But if you do it right, I promise you the world.

I'm gonna put something inside you.

What happens when I wake up from this vision?

If you're gonna offer me your spit, I'll take it straight from the spigot.

I ruined a perfectly good pair of Jimmy Chaos.

I knew you'd get rid of him for me, once he served his purpose.

Whose blood was it?

I never killed anybody. Not yet.

That was the plan. Let you do the dirty work.

You didn't come here to kill me.

You were hoping I'd put you out of your misery, but I don't need to. You're close. I doubt you'll make it through the night.

Is that why you were always so awful to me? Because you knew I was going to take your power some day?

A woman becomes a mother, she can't help but see her mortality in that cherubic little face.

Every time I looked at you, I saw my own death.

You were a constant reminder of my worst fears.

Oh, and all this time, I thought you just didn't like me.

It was nothing personal, darling.

I loved you plenty, though. Just my own way. Which, I'll admit, had its limitations.

I can feel the power vibrating off of you.

It feels good, doesn't it?

I have to die for you to truly live.

I'm not crying over you. I'm crying for me.

You were the monster in every one of my closets.

A lifetime spent either trying to prove myself to you, get close to you, or get away from you.

God knows you'll do a better job of it than I ever did though you won't look half as good doing it.

For God's sake, have mercy on me. Put me out of my misery. I hurt everywhere.

You're scared, maybe for the first time in your life.

You have to do this alone. And the only way out is through. So feel the fear and the pain. Let it all in and then let it all go.

I don't think we ever hugged.

You're up. I hope you're hungry.

Oh, get those goddamn things out of my face.

Why you always gotta be like this?

I'm tired of fighting.

How long have we been here?

If you want a stiff one, come over here.

Don't be vulgar.

Maybe you ought to lay off the sauce for a while.

Drink in the fresh air.

I can't spend eternity here.

This place it reeks of fish and cat piss.

I'm in heaven.

All right, let's open the doors.

We survived. Up until now, that's all we've done.

I know together we can do more than survive. It's our time to thrive.

[charlieweasleyy]

THE ONE WHERE WE ARE COMFORTABLE

WTN WEEK 2021 → day seven (episode seven) Hiiii friends so I decided to talk about things that bring me comfort and for me the thing that brings me the biggest comfort is the friends I've made on this board. I spend my time talking to these four basically allllll day long. If you can guess by the graphic above on who is who, but they have become some of my best friends so *drum roll* please and let me tell you about the people i consider to be my f.r.i.e.n.d.s.

MY LOBSTER Apparently, I am someone who when they find someone they mate for life. When I latched onto Elle I latched on and didn't (lol won't) let go. Like when I say she is my person I mean it with every fiber of my being. She is the soulmate. My wife. My lobster. She is like that perfect pair of sweatpants that you know are dependable and can count on and you don't want to let go of. She's like the television show that you need to put on because you've had a bad day. She's the first person I call when disaster happens. When I am having a bad day she is the first person I want to talk to and 10/10 she can say something to make it better.

We laugh until we cry and she likes to yell at me... but 9/10 I do deserve it. So, it is valid. If you see me flirting with her on the server (no you didn't) it's mostly because I can't help myself. So... just divert your eyes. It's very cliche to say that your life has changed after meeting someone, but that's what it has done. I am a better person for her, I'm more mindful, more open, and I don't think there isn't a person on this board who wouldn't say that Elle hasn't changed them for the better. It is who she is. She leaves you with something to think about, she challenges you. She pushes you. She has a heart for those who are misrepresented and misunderstood. I swear if Elle had her own talk show I'd listen to it every day. The girl is *passionate* and that is one thing I can't help but love about her. She is passionate about diversity, about the people on this board, I have watched her struggle with some hard decisions this year and how it has affected her mentally, but she also rises from the ashes because she has to. I have watched her countless times put this site above her own needs. I have watched her struggle. I have watched her doubt (herself and her future) and I have watched her wonder if she is doing the right thing. I have watched her feel remorse and pain and I'm telling you if you do not think Elle cares about WTN and everyone on this board then you've not seen her struggle the way that I've seen her struggle. It's probably why I'm so damn protective of her, but I don't regret a single second of it.

Okay, I've spent this whole time talking about how great Elle is but I've not spoken about the writing. I've run out of room... her writing is amazing, she is the one person I can respond to no matter what day I'm having and no matter what ship it is. I love all of our threads and I'm always so happy and excited to see an elle reply in my alerts waiting to be read and responded to! I find it hard to wrap them because they are just so good! If I have a day where I don't feel like doing replies good chance I'll still pull up an Elle reply because it normally makes my day better 99.99999% of the time. The .1% doesn't exist, but it's including the slight possibility of error and the fact Elle will have something to refute that claim with.

THE GIRL I'D MOVE FURNITURE WITH I don't think there is anyone else I want around my side to do some of the heavy lifting and I don't mean that in the physical sense, but in the writing sense and the mental sense too (tho I don't need to see Kae in real life to know that she's strong). You know that saying about people who struggle in silence. I think that describes Kae because sometimes it's like using a crowbar in getting her to open up and to TALK. It is one of the most frustrating things. It's kind of like a treasure box when you have the box sitting right in front of you and it is impossible to open. Okay, half the battle was finding it. You have the map in front of you and when you finally find it, it is STILL locked. That's Kae. It was quite the struggle in getting her to be open to more plots like I knew where to find and how to find her, but actually getting to Kae felt impossible even though I had all of the directions in front of me. But once you put in the time and effort to get to know her.... like *really* know her, it's like discovering treasure. Not only is she one of the most dependable writers (like I said she will carry the heavyweight in all of her threads), but she is one of the best writers! I love reading her threads even if I'm not in them, they always leave me on the edge of my seat and that characterization *chef's kiss*. MAKES JOKES WITH BC HUMOR IS BAE Oh you know the one who tells the jokes when they are uncomfortable. It is a friends reference and the only one I could think of when I thought of Aria. She makes me laugh. She probably makes me laugh more than anyone especially during WTNWeek because of these videos. When I say read something in an Aria voice I mean it! She isn't really that awkward!! But I'm sure she'll say differently so YOLO. Aria doesn't know a stranger, she pops into your DMs and suddenly it's like you have known her all of your life. We have not known one another as long as I have known Kae and Elle, but she fits in so well. Her writing is beautiful and I love how she is in my DMs daily with inspiration for our ships. I started out with zero Aria ship and Aria made two new characters just to have ships with me and I love her for that. I can gush about how amazing she is because she is one of those people who will provide you comfort. If she knows you are having a bad day, she will send you something to make you smile and she'll remind you that she loves you. And I can't even tell you how having those videos during WTNWeek has made my days a little bit better! If I'm feeling frustrated or sad I just turn one on and it has made my day ten times better. It's funny how she is young, but she is kind of my teacher. She sends me videos to help me when I don't understand something and I am SORRY Aria because you've had to send a lot of videos lately, but I don't think the staff could have made a better decision in asking Aria to hop on board. She is always so helpful and the thing is -- she *wants* to help. She wants to pitch in. She always puts her best foot forward and I love that. And cand we talk about those posting and organization skills #swoooon MY SMELLY CAT In reality I am probably singing this song to Jasmine, but I feel like you'd join in sooo here we go. I wanna preface and say I am not calling Bela a smelly cat! But she speaks in references I don't understand sometimes and sometimes she talks about these weird noises she makes so I think this description is perfect for her. Bela came into WTN and I normally have trust issues BUT I trusted my gut and Prudy is one of my favorite characters on the board. We have been trying to get her cousin on board for as long as I can remember. Prudy deserves all of the good things so I really wanted Bela to stay on board. I threw her practically everything I could think of and I am so glad I did because it has allowed us to get close over the years.

Bela and I have created some fun dynamics over the years between readie being the superior of them all, but we also created dynamics that I never expected to create like Manny, Sieun, and Dylya. They have come to be some of my FAVORITE pairings. It's kinda funny we often joke about how we only have one ship on the board, but it feel like we have a billion. Bela always enjoys sending me music, it's like when she knows I need some writing music, and that's part of the ways she fits into my comfort. Bela is a listener. She listens and she is one of those people who are easy to talk to. I enjoy sharing headcanons and future headcanons and character ideas that we won't create but would like to! I like that she is open and she is honest with me - if she is having a bad day then she'll let me know. But I also think we've talked so much that I can just tell.We are comfortable with one another and I absolutely LOVE it.

I know confetti has been going on for a while, but there are not many people you write with and write WELL with but I have found multiple people I LOVE writing with and I absolutely LOVE talking to. I have found my person (lol more like loml), my partner-in-crime (like if I'm going to go to jail I need her in my corner), my cheerleader (and child), and my ship in the night (lol, we gotta be on at the right time and at the right time to talk).

[verobatto]

Destiel Chronicles

(Vol. XXX)

It was a love story from the very beginning.

I'll go with you

(7x21/7x23)

Hello my friends! Ready for this last meta from season 7??

We are going to talk about Crazy!Cas a lot (as you know, he wasn't crazy at all...) And the last episode, so much Destiel material...

I want to mention my dear friend @agusvedder here, she made the gifs for this Chronicle and discussed with me the episodes, thank you girl! 😘💕

I'll stop with the cháchara here, let's start this!

Dean get disappointed when he sees Cas seems Crazy, but he's not

I'll talk about another jewel in symbolism, by Edlund, episode 7x21 Reading is Fundamental.

Well, we have a whole and sad situation when Dean and Sam met Cas at the Mental Hospital.

First impression, Dean heard the "Hello, Dean" and his heart eyes are displayed immediately, he also compliments him...

CASTIEL: Hello, Dean. Sam.

SAM: Hey, Castiel.

DEAN: Look at you, walkin' and talkin'. That's – that's great, right?

When Dean sees Castiel's behavior is not the same as always, his attitude with him changes.

After this, we heard Cas saying this...

DEAN: Okay, just hang on, Cas. Wait. Let us catch up to you for a second.

SAM: So, you're saying you remember who you are, what you are.

CASTIEL: Yes. Of course. Oh. Outside today, in the garden, I followed a honeybee. I saw the route of flowers. It's all right there, the whole plan. There's nothing to add.

When Sam asked if he remembered who he was, Castiel quickined his words, and changed the subject, to a totally different issue... Bees.

And this could sound like words coming from a lunatic, but if we dig on his words, we we'll find out why Crazy! Cas wasn't crazy at all...

When he's talking about bees, he's talking about a community, perfectly assembled to fill with one plan. Here, Cas is symbolizing his own community, the angels, with a melancholic tone. The plan was perfect: protect Humanity. There was nothing to add to that. But there's guilt in these words too. Because he felt he failed too, when he was Godstiel, he killed innocent people and angels. So he followed that bee, and found what his own idea about what he should be, what Heaven should be. Like an Utopia.

Each time they were trying to make Castiel to talk about the problem, and the tablet, or the past, Castiel switched to another topic, the crazy not so crazy topic . And if you pay attention, it was Sam the one that always tried to get from him some info.

SAM: Yeah, yeah. You – you said something about "The Word." Is that what's written on there?

(Sam presents the problem...)

CASTIEL: Did you know that a cat's penis is sharply barbed along its shaft? I know for a fact the females were not consulted about that.

DEAN: Cas, please, we're losing ground out there, okay? We need your help. Can you not see that?

Why is Cas mentioning that thing about cats?

Because he's grieving about the creation not being perfect. Even the cat, when he wants to copulate with the female, (even if he loves humanity) he finished hurting the female cat, because it wasn't perfect, and no one asked the female cat. He hurted humanity, he hurted Dean, he hurted badly Sam, that's why he's avoiding talking about it. He doesn't want conflicts anymore, he's closed, inside himself, his thoughts, his melancholy...

And what about Dean? Dean is trying to push him back with him, he needs his Cas, the soldier, their friend and protector. Is very frustrating for him to see Cas like this.

Playing I'm sorry

When Dean found Cas in the kitchen, this dialogue is developed...

DEAN: You realize you just broke God's Word?

It's Sam's thing, isn't it? You taking on his, uh, cage-match scars. I'm guessing that's what broke your bank, right?

CASTIEL: Well, it took... everything to get me here.

DEAN: What are you talking about, man?

Dean is trying to understand why Cas is behaving like this, and that quote coming from Castiel is just... Ugh, he's suffering so much... It took ... Everything ... Castiel lost everything, and now he's there... Trying to apologize with Dean. He's ashamed, but he's understanding the imperfection of the mission, the plan, Heaven's duty. He's there, vulnerable, to show Dean he really sorry. But he's too ashamed to do it directly... So... When Dean tried again to make him remember the painful past... Cas has to do something...

CASTIEL: Dean, I know you want different answers.

DEAN: No, I want you to button up your coat and help us take down Leviathans. (Again Dean is trying to drag him back. He misses his angel.)

But then this ...

Okay... Exactly and immediately after Dean asks that question, Cas showed him the game SORRY, because he meant it. He's depressed because he failed Dean... And I want to point right here the colors on that box... There's a piece in Red (representing Dean, but a violent and angry one) and Blue (representing Cas).

CASTIEL: We live in a "sorry" universe. It's engineered to create conflict. 

Cas is saying here... Everyone makes mistakes... I made a mistake with you.

Because then, he mentioned...

why should I prosper from... your misfortune? 

Castiel is trying to ask for forgiveness, but he's throwing excuses "because the rules in this world are like this... People makes mistakes."

And he moves the blue piece there... Through the green path, but Dean is stuck in the red home there... Because Dean doesn't want to release him from that guilt, not yet You made some of them. When you tried to become God, when you cut that hole into that wall.

Gah! Painful memory! Better change topic again...

CASTIEL: Dean... it's your move.

Okay, here we have a raged Dean throwing the

Game out of the table, he's done with Castiel's avoidance. Or craziness, or wherever, is so frustrating for him. They can finally talk about what happened, about their break up, and Cas is talking weird things.

DEAN: Forget the damn game! Forget the game, Cas.

CASTIEL: I'm sorry, Dean.

DEAN: No. You're playing "Sorry!"

Is so so painful, Because Cas is trying hard, but his shame is huge, for the first time he doesn't know how to talk frankly in front of Dean. And Dean's interpretation about the whole thing was CAS IS PLAYING WITH ME. My Destiel heart is crying...

Castiel was Severely depressed

After facing Dean, trying to fix things, and failing, Castiel had to face Hester and Inias, par of his old Garrison.

Avoiding again the horrible things he did when Hester exposed the slaughter in Heaven.

When they were in the car, Cas called Meg.

MEG: Yeah. Yeah, Castiel. It's me.

DEAN: Cas? Where? Where is he?

Dean is worried about Castiel because when he made that sigil, not just Hester and Inias, but Cas were vanished. So yeah, he's worried.

Once inside the car, Castiel explained that was his Garrison.

CASTIEL: . I was their captain. Isn't that strange?

He was proud of that, but now he felt himself so weak and useless, than he thinks is strange he was once their captain. He's feeling pity for himself. He's depressed.

SAM: Cas, why are they pissed at us now?

And here we go again with the avoidance...

CASTIEL: [to MEG] You know, those racing dogs were absolutely miserable. They can only think in ovals.

Remember Meg said by the phone they were sad dogs because they were hunting a fake rabbit? Well... That had to hit in Castiel's head... Was like how he felt right now, he was racing behind a fake misión This whole time.

And Dean gets mad again...

DEAN: Cas, don't make me pull this car over! Why are angels after us?

CASTIEL: Are you angry? Why are you angry?

DEAN: No, I-I'm... Please, can we just stay on target?

CASTIEL: There is no reason for anger.

Castiel can't endure Dean is angry with him. He can't handle that.

Look at Castiel's face when he's rejecting fight. He said "I watch the bees" as he's trying to convince himself of that. This is my decision, I screwed things up, I killed my brothers and innocent humans I should be protecting, I hurted Sam and Dean will never forgive me. No. I don't have a reason to fight. I watch the bees now.

Once in Rufus cabin, there's a dialogue between Sam and Cas super fascinating. I won't put that here, because is gonna be very large, but the fact you have to have here is their relationship changed for good, it become more profound, and because they shared their fears, they'll grew in acceptance and confidence. If you want to read more about Cas and Sam relationship, I wrote a meta time ago, and I mentioned this scene. Link is here.

Okay, let's move now...

There was a dialogue between Dean and Kevin, and we could see how was Dean feeling about Castiel, his deception...

DEAN: Oh, I don't know, man. What can I say? You've been chosen. And it sucks. Believe me. There's no use asking "why me?" 'Cause the angels – they don't care. I think maybe they just don't have the equipment to care. Seems like when they try, it just... breaks them apart.

So so sad, these words just reflecting how he sees Cas... Like he's mourning his lost again. He has Castiel alive, but he isn't his Cas.

He saw how he broke, just like that time when he broke that angel in the beautiful room.

Is so, so heartbreaking...

Then... Another reason for Castiel's depression, through Meg's words...

MEG: Look, I'm simpler than you think. I've figured one thing out about this world – just one, pretty much. You find a cause, and you serve it. Give yourself over, and it orders your life. 

Castiel's cause to fight isn't there anymore, as I said before. He failed in his mission to protect Humanity, and he failed Dean. And he thinks Dean won't never forgive him... So there's no reason to live for him...

And then Hester...

Hester is a thunder in Castiel's head, the whole episode she says things brutally, this quote here, is huge. How can Cas fall in every way imaginable? Is disobedience? Yes. In Sanity? Yes. In Cruelty? Yes. In love? Yes. And the Cause: Dean Winchester.

Look at this scene, is very known in the fandom, but... Hester is talking to Dean...

DEAN: Whoa, whoa, whoa. Back off. We're actually trying to clean up one of your angel's messes! You know that.

CASTIEL: He's right. An angel brought the Leviathan back into this world, and – and they begged him. They begged him not to do it.

See how CAS is talking about himself in third person. Avoiding that fact for the shame and guilt he's feeling.

DEAN: Look, just give us some time, okay? We will take care of your Prophet.

Cas is nervous, Dean is frowning, and Inias is looking at Dean with the same disgusting face as Hester. After everything you have taking from us? They lost his Commander, the Great Castiel since they came back from rescue Dean. They lost their leader Because of Dean. The very touch of you corrupts. When Castiel first laid a hand on you I'm Hell he was lost! They blame Dean. They blame the bond between them. Is dirty. Disgusting. Corrupt.

After all this... Cas wanted to die... Really... When Hester had him surrended, on his knees, Cas wanted to die...

Look at Castiel's slight smile there, he thinks his nightmare is gonna finish there... But Meg won't let that happen.

Castiel have a reason to fight again, Because Dean forgives him

In episode 7x23 Survival of the Fittest, there's a comical comment about Cas appearing naked covered in bees in Dean's car... We never saw that idk why... But... Yeah.

But let's talk about this dialogue here (after "He was your boyfriend first" famous quote of Meg)

CASTIEL: Well, Dean, I've been thinking. Monkeys are so... clever, and they're sensible in that they leave the skins on the bananas that they eat. Is it really necessary to test cosmetics on them? I mean, how important is lipstick to you, Dean?

Well... As crazy as this sounds here .. he's talking about humans and Leviathans making test on them, he's worried about humans being eating and tested in experiments by Roman. That's why he decided provide the Winchesters from some info.

But when Dean wants more from him, the avoidance is there again...

DEAN: Um, I'm sorry. If the angels are dead, where's Kevin?

Angels+death...

CASTIEL: I could steal them from their cages, the monkeys. But where would I put them all?

Keep talking about humans, how to save them... Not using force. And Dean gets mad again...

After this, Castiel keeps taking care of the Winchester by cooking for them. How cute .. but Dean wants more from him. He wants him to fight.

They had said goodbye to Bobby again... And Cas watched the whole scene ...

When Dean gave up with that fact, he asked Castiel to fly him back to get Baby.

And we will have this beautiful Destiel scene...

CASTIEL: I'm not good luck, Dean.

DEAN: Yeah, but you know what? Bottom of the ninth, and you're the only guy left on the bench... 

This is a beautiful quote ... Is Dean saying I forgive you, look at his sincere gaze. And Cas... Cas developing instantly, his heart eyes... Because those words warmed his heart, and gave him back his mission. Dean was forgiving him. Finally.

And Dean's face when he sees the response he got from CAS... Those eyes looking back at him with such love. He felt kind of uncomfortable... Maybe because he said too much, he showed too much feelings on it... Maybe because he sounded more than just a friend right there... So the... What? Is a rhetorical question... He knows what.

And the excuse is...

Look at this now... I'll probably die tomorrow, so... Remember when he said Bobby should forgive Rufus? Because when death is in your door you have to have your friends and family with solved issues? Well... He used this excuse... And what he obtained from CAS was his loyalty and love again. His ally, and that surprised Dean. Suddenly, Cas was his Cas again. No more craziness... What happened? What made the difference? Dean's forgiveness and warm words made the difference. Castiel is back.

By the end of the episode, Castiel will be protecting Dean again, putting himself between him and Roman.

To Conclude

Edlund's episode was rich in symbolism and showed us a very depressed Cas, each word that came from his mouth were trying to say something else. He wanted to die because Dean couldn't forgive him and because all the bad things he did when he was Godstiel.

When Dean finally forgives Cas, he returned to live, literally, and had his mission back. These were two very romantic episodes and the subtext was huge.

I hope you like this last one! See you in season 8's Chronicles next week! 😘💕

Tagging @metafest @magnificent-winged-beast @emblue-sparks @weirddorkylittlediana @michyribeiro @whyjm @koshisekisen @legendary-destiel @a-bit-of-influence @thatwitchydestielfan @misha-moose-dean-burger-lover @lykanyouko @evvvissticante @savannadarkbaby @angelneedshunter @trickster-archangel @dea-stiel @poorreputation @bre95611 @thewolfathedoor @charlottemanchmal @neii3n @deathswaywardson @followyourenergy @dean-is-bi-till-i-die @hekatelilith-blog @avidbkwrm @anarchiana @mishka-the-angel-of-saturday @dickpuncher365 @vampyrosa @foxyroxe-art @authorsararayne @anonymoustitans @mybonsai1976 @love-neve-dies @wildligia @dustythewind @wayward-winchester67 @angelwithashotgunandtrenchcoat @trashblackrainbow @deeutdutdutdoh @destiel-is--endgame @destiel-shipper-11 @larrem88 @charmedbycastiel @ran-savant @little-crazy-misha-minion @samoosetheshipper

@shadows-and-padlocked-hearts @mishtho @dancingtuesdaymorning @nerditoutwithbooks @mikennacac73 @justmeand-myinsight @idontwantpeopletoknowmyname

If you want to be tagged, just let me know.

If you want to read the previous season 7 metas... Here are the links Vol. XXV, XXVI, XXVII, XXVIII, XIX.

Buenos Aires, September 25th 2019 8:12 PM