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baka-monarch · 4 years

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What The Fuck!?

(A.N: before we start with the story I just wanna say that this is based off of this post by @lance-alt . Also, alot of creators on here got mentioned in the story, like actual mentions so if you got mentioned just know that I love what you create and wanted to include you because I love your interpretations of the sides, and you do not have to read this at all if you don’t want to and if you want me to take you out of the story please DM me and tell me so that I can)

TRIGGER WARNINGS: SLIGHT MENTION OF VORE FOR LIKE TWO SECONDS, MENTION OF USYEMPETHETIC SIDES, SHITTING N SOME HEADCANONS EVEN THOUGH I MYSELF LOVE THEM

The Sides are lost. They find themselves in a familiar and yet unknown place.

They will soon find someone dark. And someone far too shiny and bright… Too innocent.

The Sides meet…

their fanon-selves.

...

It had started like any normal day. The sides existing as a part of Thomas, helping him with his daily dilemmas, the usual things. Until Thomas took a nap. Then the sides suddenly found themselves in a white void. It wasn’t a dream, they could confirm that much from the other dreams that Thomas had. Also from the confused looks on the twin’s faces who were in charge of dreams, like how Remus had caused Thomas’ nightmare that they had disgusted in Dealing With Intrusive Thoughts.

“Where are we?” Logan spoke up, voicing everyone’s concerns.

“Wherever it is, Thomas has never thought about it before.” Roman muttered as he glanced around.

“Yeah, I know his brains can be scooped out at times, but not even he can have a mind this empty.” At Remus’ comment, most of the others cringed in varying degrees, with Logan being the only one unaffected, only rolling his eyes in annoyance.

“Although your metaphor usage could use some work, you are correct. This place is too empty to be a part of Thomas.” Logan conceded.

“If this isn’t Thomas...then where are we?” Virgil gleaned around wearily, trying to come up with his own explanation for this situation.

“It’s really blank here...maybe Thomas is in a coma?” Roman tried, to which Virgil’s eyes widened.

“Impossible, how would we be active if he is not?” Logan debated.

“I don’t know! Do you have any ideas, Sherlock Drones?” Roman rebutted, causing Logan to roll his eyes and fix his glasses.

“Unfortunately, no. There is not enough evidence...anywhere to make a proper inference on the situation.” Logan finished adjusting his glasses by the time he finished, gaining an annoyed huff from Roman.

“Heya, kiddos? Maybe we shouldn’t argue. We’re all confused right now, and getting upset isn’t going to get us anywhere.” Patton butted in to make sure things didn’t escalate.

“Thank you, Patton.” Logan gave a curt nod of agreement.

“Fiiiine!” Roman whined after a bit.

“It would be wise to explore, to see if we can find any clues as to where we are.”

“I’ll do it!” Remus jumped in. “Who knows, maybe we all died a gruesome death!” He cackled.

“No need.” Janus approached the group from behind, having already explored himself. “Look behind us.” When turning the sides were surprised to find the area behind them was not all whit. On it there were words like what one would find in a google doc currently describing their situation as they lived through it.

“What the fuck?” Virgil muttered. He had a Tumb.lr so he knew what fanfiction was, and this looked like it. “This can’t be happening…” He groaned, knowing it was happening.

“Aw, they’re writing about us Virge! Like the people on that one app you use.” Patton cooed, only knowing of the fluff part of fanon.

“Pat, you don’t understand. This isn’t good.”

“Oh nonsense kiddo.” Patton dismissed. “Have you guys seen the art they draw of us? It’s so cute!” Virgil internally cringed knowing that not all of it was like that.

“Either way,”-Janus cut off their small conversation.-“We need to find a way out of here.” Janus focused slightly more on Virgil for his next comment. “Whether this is real or not.” Virgil shivered at the thought of them not being real, or even acting like they do in the things that people create.

Everyone agreed, and soon they were on their way to explore this strange new environment.

…

Soon enough, however, the sides are lost. Which brings us back to where this story began. As they searched for their original location, or even the mysterious floating words, they come upon a familiar and yet unknown place. It looks strikingly like a Disney movie kingdom. With one half, filled with bright colors, lush fields, enchanting forests, and a large white castle with a red roof. The other half being dark and dangerous, the colors fading, plants rotting, instead of animals there only creatures of unknown origin, and in the middle, a black, crumbling, castle, with striking green roofing. It was almost as if...it were made for the twins.

In fact, as they got closer they could hear two far off shouts, with simultaneous silhouettes, motioning towards them, as if pointing them out to someone...or something, else.

“Uh...guys?” Virgil trailed off wondering if the others had noticed.

“On it.” Romas was quick to pull out his sword, Remus quickly following suit with his morning star.

It was unnecessary however, as once the silhouettes were in view, they looked exactly like the twins.

“Wha…” Roman lowered his sword as he saw this. As they got closer more figures came into view. All of which looked like the sides to varying degrees. There were thousands. Some were small, some were even giants, and there were alot that weren’t even human.

“Oh! Hi there kiddos!” A Patton(?) came running past the twin’s doppelgangers. “You’re probably really confused right now, I know alot of us were when we appeared!” The sides just looked at the Patton look-alike dumbfounded. The first to break out of it was Logan.

“I do not wish to appear rude, but, who are you and where are we?” Logan queried.

“Oh, I’m Patton by @baka-monarch !” Patton chirped. “And you’re in The Imagination!”

“The what now-?” “How did you-?” Both Roman and Virgil asked at the same time.

“Hm?” The other Patton tilted his head confused.

“One at a time now kiddos…” Their Patton silently reminded them. Roman nodded to Virgil to let him go first.

Virgil inhaled, taking his cue. “How did you say a mention? That only works when typed in social medias.” Virgil wondered confused.

“Oh! That’s just my fander creator kiddo!” This Patton didn’t miss a beat as he answered happily. Virgil stared at him blankly as he came to a horrifying conclusion.

“We’re in a f*****g fanfiction.” He jumped slightly at his bleep out. “What was that?”

“Oh, Jan Jan did that I wouldn’t have to hear any vulgar language.” All of them looked back at Janus who looked forward, uninterested, definitely trying not to hide his embarrassment at what this other him did, definitely not.

“...Okay… My turn!” Roman exclaimed. “What is “the Imagination”?” He used air quotes.

“Yeah, I was wondering that too, Mr. The 6th Day clone.” Remus added.

“Oh! Don’t you know? It’s the place you and Roman can go to to summon anything.You can even change the entire world around you!” Patclone chirped.

“What.” They all said in unison with worry, apart from the twins who were excited.

“Yeah! Isn’t it cool!” Patclone said oblivious to the consequences of the twins having this power could cause. “Oh yeah, do you want me to introduce you to everyone?”

“Please, I am intrigued about how our counterparts might act.” Logan conceded.

“Okie dokie then! Follow me!”

…

It had been a few hours at this point and they still weren’t even an eighth of the way through yet. There were so many headcanons, variations, AUs, OCs, OOCs, designs, everything. It was almost too much to handle.

“-this is @tscampfireau ‘s sides from their au-” The Virgil hissed and bit towards them as they almost walked on their pentagram that they were making out of… was that blood? The Patton and Logan were helping them by t-posing as a barrier against the other sides. “-yeah they can be a...fun bunch to hang out with. Oh, and here’s @bleepblopbloop56 ‘s sides.”

“How, and why are they hotter than us..?” Roman mumbled to Virgil, only getting a weird look in response.

“Then there’s @mango-shpango ‘s and @rondoel ‘s ones, he’s got a lot-” Patclone shrugged it off, but King caught all of their eyes. He didn’t have to look like the one they knew for them to know who it was… “Oh, hey there @that-prey-lounge and @tiny-peter-rabbit ‘s sides!” He greeted them. As they turned a corner there was a group of sides that were made of metal like robots. “Oh, there’s @burnadolt ‘s fnaf au!” He waved. As they approached a tavern the last group greeted was, “Heya @nommy-thoughts ‘ sides, how are you adjusting?” there were several positive responses from many of them, and as the sides looked closer they could see that a few were smaller than a human hand not only that but nearby (possibly made by someone else), were the sides they’d seen from afar earlier that were giants.. They hadn't noticed them yet here because of how closely compact the buildings were and how their size made what was visible from their perspective look like buildings.

As they all entered the tavern, they saw that there was only one group of sides here. “Hiya guys! New sides I’d like you to meet @baka-monarch ‘s group.” There were several different hellos. “And my friends, I’d like you to meet… to meet..? I’m sorry but who’s your creator?” Virgil was the one to answer.

“@thatstha-MMPH!” Virgil was only part of the way through before the other’s Janus made him slap his hand over his mouth as the other sides in the room went pale. “What was that for?” Virgil asked, his voice muffled by his hand.

“You can’t say his name. Not here.” Patclone explained cryptid. They all fell into an awkward silence, until Roman changed the subject.

“Why are there...two of you?” Roman observed.

“Oh!” Patclone chirped. “I was created just for this au! Just so I could be your guide!” He paused for a moment thinking before continuing. “I guess I’m like the Monika of this world.” Again, everyone paled, some not understanding, others...understanding too well. “Welp, I guess you want to go explore now! Jan Jan, do you and Patty wanna go have fun while they look around?” Both mentioned sides blushed.

“I told you not to call me that…” Janus mumbled as he took Patclone’s hand and the other Patton stood up to quickly join them as they went off to a separate room.

…

Only an hour had passed and the sides had already split off into groups with their counterparts. The Roman’s comforting each other while being completely random, some of them being sad little puffballs that the strong egotistic Roman’s had decided to protect, while others were a mix or just completely unsympathetic and degrading anyone the came in contact with, especially the Virgils. Virgil had kind of separated himself from the other Virgils since 90% of them were cowering away from everything and just having constant anxiety attacks, while the few who were different either had power that they abused, or were fawning over the other sides. The Logans had formed an army of science lead by the Logan from @askdarksidelogan and the other dark sides from his au, this Logan was very robotic looking, cruel, and unfeeling...well, almost unfeeling as the Deceit from his au was his boyfriend and the Remus was really close friends with him. Janus was busy trying to coral in all his different counterparts as some of them made plans to kill everyone around them and end the government, while others were hiding due to PTSD about the angst they have been through. The Remuses just vibed in their corner, killing, being gross, and annoying the other aspects. Finally the Pattons. Patton had basically adopted the ones that were child-like and too innocent for their own good while avoiding the unsympathetics that were teaming up with other unsympathetics and the ones who were...horny… Actually everyone was avoiding the horny ones.

But that was just the simplified version of the chaos. Logans were capturing people to test, Deceits were arguing over their name even though one was already canon, Romans were either being complete idiots or crying silently to themselves, while they were targeted by the unsympathetics along with the Virgils, everyone too scared to even try to tussle with the army of Logans.

Virgil sat back on a hill and watched it all unfold. How had the community gotten this far without this much chaos? He had no idea. A few other counterparts were up there with him but he didn’t mind since they mostly seemed chill. A Virgil approached and sat down next to him exhausted, and judging by the paint he was covered in he had just come from the Romans’ corner.

“Romans a little too much?” Virgil tried making conversation.

“Yeah…” He breathed. “It was getting a little too rowdy and I wanted to get my Roman out of there so he wouldn’t get hurt.” With no Roman in sight, Virgil assumed that he had been unsuccessful.

“So, which Roman is yours?” Virgil wondered.

“Hm?” The counterpart tilted his head confused until it clicked. “Oh, no, he’s not down there right now.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a tiny Roman. “See.”

“Oh…” Virgil was at a loss of words. What does a person say to that? After that they just sat there in silence as Virgil’s counterpart and the Roman snuggled slightly through a hand to body contact.

“So…” Virgil decided to try again. “What’s it like, y’know, being shipped?” Virgil wondered, seeing how it seemed these two were in some kind of relationship. Virgil had always found it kind of weird, but, maybe there was more to it…

“I mean, it’s like any other relationship I guess… falling in love and deciding to be together.” The counterpart mumbled as the tiny Roman rubbed his hand to comfort him.

“But isn’t it weird how it isn’t real? How, you’re literally just playing out your creator’s fantasies because they enjoy the idea of you being together?” Virgil wondered.

The counterpart just shrugged. “I try not to think about it… but, it really isn’t that weird, even if we’re fictional characters we have memories, motives, morals, opinions, feelings. Those are real. Even if they aren’t created by us, they are real. Every thought, every motion, every breath. That is us. Just because it was written, drawn, or even just imagined, it happened and that makes it real. Makes this feeling real.” He explained as he rubbed the little head of his Roman.

“Huh I… I guess you’re right, I never thought of it that way.” Virgil shrugged.

“No one does. Why do you think people are told not to cry over fictional deaths when they actually had feelings for a character, platonic or not?” The counterpart said. “It’s just a story on the outside, something thought to not affect people even though when our memories are shared with them, it can change them.” Virgil looked at his counterpart, curiosity growing about how he had so much knowledge.

“Who’s your creator?” Virgil finally asked.

“Why do I have to have one?”

“Touche.”

They went back to a comfortable silence. It was nice. Until this one Janus came.

“Hey, Virgil, does Roman mind if I had him for a bit?” They asked.

“I don’t mind at all!” The tiny side exclaimed as he got on Janus’ hand. They soon left, but when that Janus vired the Roman they weren’t far enough away from Virgil for him not to catch a glimpse. He shivered.

“Is that normal?” He wondered.

“Depends on the part of the community, but pretty normal and usually safe, so don’t worry.” The counterpart comforted him. It barely helped but at last Virgil knew that that Roman was safe… probably.

“Can I try!” Remus came brelling up the his, straight (heh) to the counterpart.

“Only if you want to.” They replied.

“I do!” Remus wriggled with excitement.

“Alright, let's go find you one of the groups of sides either with the power to shrink you or are giants.” Virgil led Remus off the hill as Remus kept talking about everything that could go wrong but probably wouldn’t.

Weird. Was all Virgil could think as he watched them leave.

…

He saw a lot that day but never saw that Virgil again, as if he had vanished mysteriously. It didn’t matter to him right now though as he had been stuck with babysitting duty over all the little kid sides.

“F*** this.”

…

Virgil looked over the story he just read one more time. It was written by a small creator called @baka-monarch , who focussed more on reblogging than they did their own content.

“That was trash.”

…

“Reblog.”

#sander sides #vore mention #virgil sanders #roman sanders #janus sanders #remus sanders #logan sanders #patton sanders #fanon sides #canon sides #fanfiction

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dottiechan · 3 years

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Hey!! I've been following your blog for a while and I love your style! I read you are self taught. I want to learn how to draw people too so I thought I'd ask: can you recommend some resources that worked for you? Thank you soo much! 😸

Hi! Thanks for the ask, and for your kind words!

A little something to consider though before I proceed with the rest of my answer - take everything I say/recommend with a grain of salt. “Self-taught” isn’t a mysteriously elusive concept, it doesn’t mean someone’s mastered a skill all by themselves, it simply means taking control of your own learning process and allowing yourself to find the methods and ways that benefit you. If something anyone recommends doesn’t work for you and makes you feel bad in any way, I say ignore it.

That being said, you can find the rest of my thoughts beneath the cut:

Find the right platform and tools

This is step 0. Nothing will feel right unless you find a form of artistic self-expression that resonates within you. I find digital art to be much more forgiving and not to mention cheaper than the more tradtional ways, but not every platform works for me. I’ve been using Autodesk Sketchbook for a while now because it is completely free, beginner friendly and has just enough tools to help you make more elaborate drawings as well, but I would break down crying if I had to learn how to use Photoshop (while some people excel at it!). As for tablets, I totally recommend the Wacom ones. I’ve been using my Wacom Intuos Comic tablet with my laptop for years and I’ve never had any issues with it.

References

I suck at human anatomy. There, I’ve said it. I’ve never learned it properly for drawing purposes, and every attempt I’ve made to do so simply left me frustrated, so unforntunately I don’t have many resources for you, per se. Whenever I try using anatomy guides or tutorials, my drawings end up looking weird. So I mainly only use references. IMO anatomy doesn’t matter much as long as the shapes look natural, and as long as your drawing conveys the message you want it to convey. References help guide you, while giving you the necessary freedom to make adjustments as you see fit (while on the other hand I personally find rigid anatomical “rules” restricting). Use references for everything - the lighting, the face, the hair, the hands, the clothes. I always have several photos saved to my phone while I’m drawing that I often look at.

(If you want to learn how human anatomy works though, more power to you! There is an great amount of drawing tutorials out there by wonderful artists! :))

Some of my favourite places to go to for pose refs:

Senshistock

SketchDaily Reference Site

Kibbitzer

Google images of celebrities or models (cliche, I know, but it’s a good way to get many references of the same body type, face, etc.)

Some tips I wish someone told me when I got into digital art:

If you find poses or faces difficult at first, practice by tracing. A lot. Get familiar and even intimate with certain recurring lines or ratios or curves, and eventually they will come back to you when you draw without tracing. Gradually shift to just looking at references. This will take time, so be patient with yourself. Tracing is a great way to warm up to a new platform and/or tablet too - this is how I got comfortable with my current setup 3 years ago. (Out of respect for the creators, do not claim traced refs as your own work.)

It will probably take a while, so practice as often as you can. Unfortunately, there is no way around this, but instead of setting a goal (i.e. “I want to learn how to draw people”), try to enjoy the journey. Even when you think your drawings don’t come out as well or as realisitc as you want them to, you’re drawing people. And you can find unique solutions once you let go of this “ideal state” you want to reach. That’s when your style will emerge. :)

Something looks wonky or out of place in your initial sketch? No problem. Use the Quick transform > Lasso tool in Sketchbook to outline and drag the part where it would look better. I have salvaged so many sketches like this, such an easy fix to when you mess up the ratios in for instance a face.

Find The Brush. The One Brush to rule them all. The brush that makes you feel the most comfortable, the one that accomodates your style the most. (Mine is the Dry Marker. I feel like I could conquer the world with it.)

Always change the background colour from white to something a little darker. That way it is so much easier to add white highlights and make a face or a body look more 3 dimensional. (Especially if you’re lazy like yours truly, and would like to get away with not adding any colours to a drawing.)

Put everything on separate layers!!! Otherwise making even minor tweaks will be extremely difficult.

#dottiechanart #dottiechan asks #anonymous #i hope you'll find something useful here nonny :)

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aion-rsa · 4 years

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The Best French TV Shows on Netflix

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When acclaimed supernatural series Les Revenants/The Returned aired on Canal+ in 2012, it emerged into a fairly barren landscape for French-language scripted TV drama. The story of a remote mountain town whose dead are mysteriously revived, its stylish, cinematic look and philosophical, grown-up approach to genre television had little precedent. While the French ‘polar’ or detective series had long been a television staple, France had almost no tradition of sci-fi, horror and fantasy TV shows – or at least, none taken seriously by its understandably cinephile-and-proud cultural gatekeepers.

In the last five years, coinciding with the global growth of scripted TV drama, that’s all changed. Crime thrillers still wear the crown, but alongside them, France and Belgium are producing and exporting more continuing television dramas and miniseries than ever. From Black Mirror-ish future-set Osmosis and consciousness-swapping Transfers, to cool Parisian teen Vampires and creepy horror Marianne, scripted French-language genre television is exploding. It’s early days and the market has been testing its breadth, which explains the profusion of shows below that haven’t lasted beyond a single series. When it works though, as in excellent comedy-drama Call My Agent, it really works, in France and around the world.

Political thrillers, comedies, psychological drama, rom-com… there’s never been such scripted variety on French television, and thanks to streaming services, it’s never been so accessible around the world. Here’s a guide to what’s currently available on Netflix.

SCI-FI & FANTASY

Osmosis (2019)

In near future Paris, a dating app matches singles with their soulmates by mining their brain data, but decoding true love comes at a price.

‘If science could guarantee true love, would you say yes?’ asks this atmospheric Parisian-set sci-fi series. If your answer is ‘oui’, then this thoughtful examination of relationships, technology, fate and free may give you pause.

Eight-episode series Osmosis was created by Audrey Fouché, a writer on hit French supernatural series Les Revenants / The Returned. It’s about 12 participants in an experimental scientific study designed to match people with their perfect partner using an AI named Martin (pronounced Mart-an in French, therefore much less funny). It attracted excellent reviews on release, including many favourable comparisons to Black Mirror, though Netflix frustratingly said ‘non’ to a second season.

Into the Night (2020)

When a mysterious cosmic disaster strikes Earth, survivors on an overnight flight from Brussels race to find refuge and escape the sun’s rays.

Inspired in part by Polish sci-fi novel The Old Axolotl (what is there not to enjoy about that combination of words?) written by Jacek Dukaj, Into the Night is Netflix’s first Belgian original series. The sci-fi thriller was created by Jason George, a producer on Narcos and The Blacklist, and its first season consists of six 40-minute episodes.

It’s the story of a planeful of passengers mid-flight when an environmental catastrophe causes the sun’s rays to start destroying all organic life. If the plane can outrun the sunrise by flying through different time zones, they might survive to fight its disastrous effects. A lot of them will, in fact, because a second season was ordered by Netflix in July 2020. Don’t go looking for depth necessarily with this one, it’s a twisty action sci-fi designed for bingeing and not for the ‘but would that really happen?’ brigade.

Transfers / Transferts (2017)

After a boating accident, woodworker and family man, Florian, wakes up in the body of an officer who leads a task force against illegal body transfers.

This six-episode sci-fi imagines a world where the technology has developed to transplant human consciousness from one body to another. Due to moral objections from the Church, the process is ruled illegal but continues underground, leading to the creation of a police task force which specialises in capturing unlawful ‘Transfers’. When a carpenter dies in an accident and awakens in the body of the man leading that task force, he’s thrown into the middle of a tense conspiracy.

This pacey thriller blending crime drama and sci-fi won a couple of awards on release, including a plaudit for the performance of Belgian lead Arieh Worthalter. Its co-creator Claude Scasso is part of the team on France’s hugely successful detective show Cain. Sadly despite all that, there’s no sniff of a second season.

Mortel (2019)

Determined to find his missing brother, high school troublemaker Sofiane ropes timid classmate Victor into a pact with a mysterious figure.

A rare excursion for France into the kind of teen supernatural TV more commonly found on America’s The CW, Mortel (a pun on French slang for cool, or whatever word means ‘cool’ these days – slammin’?) is the story of two high schoolers gifted with magical abilities. Teen Sofiane seeks an ancient power to help find his missing brother, and receives it courtesy of a Voodoo god. The catch is that this new-found power may only be used in conjunction with his oddball classmate, Victor.

Sofiane and Victor are thus thrown together by their magical pact, and the six-episode show sees the pair navigate teen life and supernatural danger at the same time. It was created by Frédéric Garcia, who made his name as a teen drama writer on Skam France. There won’t be a second season, and in all honesty, that’s not an enormous shame but genre fans looking for a change of scenery should get a kick from it.

Marianne (2019)

Emma, a famous and successful French horror writer, is forced to return to her hometown after the woman who haunted her dreams fifteen years ago begins to re-appear. The work she writes is apparently a work of fiction, but how much is fact?

This eight-episode series about a successful writer who, having bled her teenage nightmares for book material, now faces its real-life return was warmly received by horror fans on its arrival in 2019. The eight-episode first season (sadly, it wasn’t renewed for a second) is packed with classic scares which, though familiar, were handled extremely well. The French setting added a new element for UK and US viewers more used to seeing such hauntings play out in English.

Created by Quoc Dang Tran and Samuel Bodin, the undeniably scary Marianne stars Call Me By Your Name’s Victoire Du Bois as hit novelist Emma Larsimon, but it’s undeniably the face of Mireille Herbstmeyer as Madame Daugeron you’ll be seeing in your own nightmares.

Vampires (2020)

A Parisian teenager who is half human, half vampire grapples with her emerging powers, and family turmoil as she is pursued by a secret vampire community.

The vampire mythos gets another go-around in this six-part coming-of-age drama about a Parisian teenager torn between two identities. Doina (Oulaya Amamra) is half-vampire, half-human. Her vamp mother has kept her on drugs to suppress her vampiric urges, but curiosity and teen rebellion lead Doina to explore her supernatural heritage.

The result is a stylish, blood-soaked, neo-noir teen show filled with sex and gore against the backdrop of the French capital. Yes, you’ve seen most of it all before, but as metaphors for adolescence go, vampirism’s one of the richest. The music-video aesthetic and developing mythology – who are The Community, the mysterious vampiric cult who want Doina to join them? What happened to her human father? – combined with the family drama make this very watchable, if not a total must-see.

Black Spot / Zone Blanche (2017)

A police chief and an eccentric new prosecutor investigate a string of grisly crimes and eerie phenomena in an isolated town at the edge of a forest.

A creepy town, a haunted forest and beaucoup de killings are the ingredients of this Belgian supernatural series. It’s the story of a local police chief in a fictional town surrounded by a vast forest filled with creepy secrets that makes the local murder stats six times the national average, attracting the attention of an out-of-town investigator.

Black Spot was created by Mathieu Missoffe, a writer on crime drama Spiral and the French portions of Netflix original Criminal. It’s extremely bingeable, and while the Twin Peaks comparisons are overstating the matter, its combination of folk horror and dark humour makes it memorable. There are currently two eight-episode seasons (the original title Zone Blanche translates more closely to Dead Zone, but we’re not the ones making the decisions around here). As yet, there’s no word on a third season, but neither has it officially been cancelled.

Twice Upon a Time / Il était une seconde fois (2019)

While still reeling from a breakup, Vincent receives a cube with extraordinary powers and seizes a change to reconnect with his ex – in the past.

This mournful sci-fi romance about a man who receives an object in the post that enables him to travel back in time to nine months earlier, when he attempts to resurrect a failed relationship with his ex (Skins and The White Queen‘s Freya Mavor) wasn’t exactly warmly received by fans of either genre. With only four half-hour episodes though, it does have brevity in its favour, as well as its own violin-laden, intense atmosphere. If you’re a fan of meditative science-fiction that poses moral questions and doesn’t provide all (or indeed some) of the answers, Twice Upon a Time could be for you. Make sure you watch it with subtitles though, because the US dubbed accents are a bridge too far.

CRIME THRILLER

The Forest / La Forêt (2017)

When a teen girl disappears from a village near the Ardennes Forest, local police and a concerned teacher begin to uncover a web of unsettling secrets.

Comparisons to Zone Blanche (see above) abound for The Forest, but this is a much more straightforward Broadchurch-style crime thriller. Set in the Ardennes in a small town where everybody knows everybody and they’re all hiding sordid secrets (you know the drill by now), it’s about the search for a missing teenage girl and years of strange disappearances and goings-on in the titular forest.

Reviews were generally good, with plenty of praise for the scenery and soundtrack, but the key thing about this one-series thriller is that the ending offers definitive answers to the many questions posed in the series. A bit clichéd, perhaps, but crime mystery fans should find plenty to enjoy in the twists and turns.

The Chalet / Le Chalet (2017)

Friends gathered at a remote chalet in the French Alps for a summer getaway are caught in a deadly trap as a dark secret from the past comes to light.

The backdrop of Chamonix in the French Alps is what makes this serviceable thriller worth a look. Its somewhat predictable ‘nasty things happen in a remote chalet’ story plays out against a stunning mountain setting, over two timelines. The six hour-long episodes are split between 2017, when a group of friends visits the titular chalet, and 1997, when a family moved there for a fresh start. Neither goes… well.

By no means a must-watch, it’s nevertheless a compact, eventful series for Francophile TV fans, from the makers of crime thriller Les Dames and popular long-running French detective series Julie Lescaut.

11 great foreign-language TV dramas

By Gem Wheeler

Movies

25 stylish French films worth watching

By Aliya Whiteley

The Mantis / La Mante (2017)

A serial killer, nicknamed ‘La Mante’ decides to collaborate with the police when a string of murders that copycat her style suddenly appear.

Try to ignore the fact that the main character is called Damien Carrot and this six-part crime thriller will feel all the more gruesome. It’s already very, very gruesome and merits its many comparisons to The Sinner and Luther’s heightened world of psychopathic murderers and nasty death scenes. Apparently Stephen King’s a fan.

It’s a kind of Silence of the Lambs set-up about an incarcerated serial killer helping a cop to solve a series of copycat murders in Paris, with the twist that said cop is said serial killer’s son (!). Without giving anything away, the controversial ending definitely merits a wider discussion about the responsibilities of TV drama, which you’ll find elsewhere online, so be prepared for crassness. The trailer above is French-language only.

The Frozen Dead / Glacé (2017)

A grisly find atop a mountain in the French Pyrenees leads investigator Martin Servas into a twisted dance with a serial killer in this icy thriller.

Did we say the last one was Silence of the Lambs-y? This one is very much that aussi. In The Frozen Dead, a serial killer plays a sick game with the cops investigating some gruesome murders in the French Pyrenees. There’s also some wrongdoing involving a horse that doesn’t involve it ending up in a pot-au-feu.

This suspense thriller consists of six 50-minute episodes, which makes it a choice weekend binge, from creators with credits including Spiral and French political series Spin / Les Hommes de l’Ombre.

Unit 42 / Unité 42 (2017)

A widowed cop tapped to lead a special cybercrimes unit teams up with a former hacker to hunt down tech-savvy criminals who are terrorizing Belgium

For fans of The Tunnel and The Bridge, this is a Belgian odd-couple crime thriller about Sam – a resolutely analogue detective in his 50s – and Billie – a troubled hacker in her 20s. They team up in a newly created Brussels digital policing unit to track down a network of cyber terrorists responsible for a series of killings.

If that sounds generic and familiar, it is, but the chemistry of the two leads Patrick Ridremont and Constance Gay sells the premise. This police procedural has two 10-part series so far, comprising 50-minute episodes but only the first is currently available to stream on Netflix.

The Break / La Trêve (2016)

A police detective mourning a painful loss moves back to his peaceful hometown, only to be drawn into a murder case that dredges up dark secrets.

Nicknamed the Belgian Broadchurch (we really need to find new ways to describe crime TV), this whodunit earned high praise across both seasons for its darkly comic and twisted story of dark small town secrets. Filmed in The Ardennes, the two 10-episode seasons weave together numerous family drama subplots and lay bare sick secrets about the residents of Heiderfeld, Belgium.

The premise sees a police detective moves with his teenage daughter from Brussels back to his home town, where the body of a young football player has been pulled from the river. Against a backdrop of local corruption surrounding the construction of a dam, was it suicide or murder?

DRAMA

Inhuman Resources / Dérapages (2020)

Alain Delambre, unemployed and 57, is lured by an attractive job opening. But things get ugly when he realises he’s a pawn in a cruel corporate game.

Eric Cantona (yes, him) stars in this six-episode action-packed thriller satirising corporate greed. It’s based on a 2010 novel by Pierre Lemaitre titled Cadres Noirs, which itself was inspired by a true story about a company that staged a fake hostage situation as part of a round of high-level job interviews.

It’s a slick, gritty morality drama about a down-on-his-luck man (Cantona) forced into an extreme role when he’s tasked with simulating a hostage attack for a slimy boss seeking to decimate his workforce. Reviews have been very positive, with particular praise for Cantona in the lead role.

Mythomaniac / Mytho (2019)

Burned out and taken for granted, a working mother suspects her partner is cheating, so to win back his attentions, she feigns a medical diagnosis.

Directed by Fabrice Gobert, who headed up Les Revenants / The Returned and written by Anne Berest, this domestic drama-comedy is about Elvira, a disenchanted mother of three ignored by her family, cheated on by her husband and kicked around by suburban life. When she lies about a cancer diagnosis, things start to change for the better at home, but the lie brings its own complications. It won the audience award and best actress for lead Marina Hands (Black Spot, Taboo) at Series Mania, winning praise for her delicate, compassionate performance.

This is a solid family drama with a strong lead performance. It’s already been renewed for a second season, which was, pre-Covid-19, due to arrive in France in late 2020. See the French-language trailer above.

COMEDY & ROM-COM

Family Business (2019)

After learning France is about to legalize pot, a down-on-his-luck entrepreneur and his family race to turn their butcher shop into a marijuana cafe.

Starring, among others, French legend Liliane Rovère (also seen in Call My Agent, see below), this is part stoner comedy, part dysfunctional family sitcom. It’s about a struggling son (creator Jonathan Cohen) who comes up with the bright idea to pivot his Parisian Jewish family butcher shop into a cannabis cafe, and the trouble that lands them in on both sides of the law.

It’s lightweight with a bit of edge, and if you take a shine to its larger-than-life characters fear not, it was renewed for a second season very quickly after its initial release. The new episodes are scheduled to arrive in September 2020.

The Hook-up Plan / Plan Coeur (2018)

Elsa, on the verge of turning thirty and stuck in an uninspiring job, finds herself still hung up on her ex-boyfriend two years after their breakup. Her friends, hoping to help her break out of her rut and find some confidence, decide to hire a male escort to take her on a few dates.

This rom-com is the second French-language Netflix original after Gerard Depardieu-starring Marseille, and given the choice between the two, this is the one to watch. Three friends, Elsa, Emilie and Charlotte navigate relationships and imminent motherhood in contemporary Paris over two series.

It’s a light, pacey modern dating comedy filled with bright shots of Paris and city life. The English-targeted trailer riffed on its similarity to Love Actually, if you want to use that as a barometer for whether you’d enjoy it. (Though if it’s French comedy-drama you’re after though, run, don’t walk to Call My Agent, see below).

A Very Secret Service / Au Service de la France (2015)

1960: the French intelligence service hires the 23-year-old Andre Merlaux. Handsome, well-raised, intelligent but impressionable, Merlaux has much to learn to serve and defend the interests of France.

This light-weight Archer-ish satire goes back to the 1960s to a time when France’s position in the world stage was changing due to ongoing bloody colonial battles for independence, and French society was changing thanks to the rise of feminism and the civil rights movement. Set in a French intelligence training service, it follows a hapless new recruit’s attempts to follow orders and do his compatriots proud. There are two 12-episode seasons of this comedy drama, which was received warmly back in 2015 and pokes fun at the old ways and the new through the eyes of a fish out of water.

Call My Agent / Dix Pour Cent (2015)

At a top Paris talent firm, agents scramble to keep their star clients happy – and their business afloat – after an unexpected crisis.

Unless you are in fact watching it (in which case, carry on), this is surely The Best French TV Series You’re Not Watching. Set in a Parisian talent agency struggling to survive after the loss of its patron, it’s a workplace comedy-drama with heart and satirical bite. The forthcoming season four will sadly be its last, but at least it’s going to end on its own terms.

Dix Pour Cent (10 Per Cent in English, in reference to the agent’s cut of a star’s pay packet) is a funny, fast, whip-smart satire of, and love letter to the French film industry, filled with characters to love. Created by Fanny Herrero, it has a terrific comedy ensemble cast (including Camille Cottin, who played Fleabag in the French-language remake) but the real joy for fans of French cinema are the guest stars. So many legends pop up, from Juliette Binoche to Monica Bellucci, Jean Dujardin, Isabelle Huppert and Beatrice Dalle… all playing exaggerated versions of themselves. N’hesitez plus, vas-y!

The post The Best French TV Shows on Netflix appeared first on Den of Geek.

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ruby-x3 · 5 years

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Is Suyin the child of Toph and Sokka?

Disclaimer

I tried to get as much "true" information as I could, but because I have not much time I couldn't write down all the sources. If you need the proof you can easily find it on the internet. Sorry for that!

This entry has more or less comments of my personal opinion. Therefore I want to highlight those parts in purple.

EDIT: It's confirmed, that Sokka and Suki lived in the suburbs together after ATLA. It was confirmed at ComicCon in an Q&A. Thanks to the cautious readers out there :) I hope you still enjoy the text!

OK so I have stumble upon this theory on what happened to Sokka between the end of the comic arcs (yet) and the beginning of LoK. Therefore I found a pretty interesting picture on Instagram from somebody, who tries to find evidences that Toph and Sokka have a child and it's Suyin Beifong.

As you can see the person compares to facial and body proportions as well as skin tone and similarities. Especially between Sokka and Suyins children you can see a good amount of similarities. I can also agree with the point that Suyin have facial similarities to Sokka. For example if Tophs and Sokkas gene mixed, the skin tone would fit and Suyins heart-shape face would make sense (Toph has a square/round face and Sokka a pointy/oval face shape). The only thing I can't agree is the shoulders? I mean they are just shoulders? You can't tell that they are pointy because Suyins shoulder pads are obviously pointy, but Sokkas are just normal shoulders?

Anyway the text also says that Suki died in a war (it's right according to Google but please feel free to correct me) so there could be room between Sokka and Tophs relationship.

So first of all I want to show parts of their relationship in ATLA and then slosh to the comics.

As we look in the past, there are some points where Toph and Sokka seems to have a bit of chemistry - at least they really care for each other.

At the beginning I want to take emphasis on their trust to each other. In the episode "The Runaway" in Book 3, Sokka and Toph both shared some deeper feelings and fears of themselves to each other. As friends, this is nothing new, but still a great moment of their bond.

Secondly on the war ship Sokka protects Toph and holds her. Again, this might be just a thing between friends. I see nothing romantical here, because she can't see the falling rocks and she also did the same thing for Sokka at "The Serpent's Pass" in Book 2.

Now going a bit deeper Toph is holding Sokkas arm as they went back to Ba Sing Se with Appa and Aang after he went to the Guru in the episode "The Guru". The same thing happened in the boat in episode "The Painted Lady", book 3. Usually Toph doesn't need a helping hand on Appas back as you can see in various episodes. This hug also doesn't seem very much on a friendship base but more "romantically". It's a pose you would usually do to a crush in my opinion.

Especially in the last picture after Sokka went to master Piandao she showed affection towards him because she missed him after only one day. She mentioned her missing of Sokka before in the Gaang part, which nobody else did. They also tent to trust each other, because they didn't fear to tell their fears and problems. She even complimented his drawings (more as a joke), but they sort of picking on each other a lot. Toph also seems to have some sort of interest in Sokka, because she thought he saved her in the water and wanted to thank him with a kiss.

To be honest this isn't very typical for Toph. Yeah, she has also shown some affection towards Zuko, when they tried to find Aang. But this was more like a kind act, because she wanted to know Zuko better and also have some adventure with him as everybody else. She also tried to kiss "Sokka" on "his" lips, because in the she goes towards them with her face. This is no "this just naturally happens", because animators take a long time to animate a few seconds. Therefore there was an intention in this gesture by the creators, leading Toph to show her soft spot, which she usually doesn't show. She rather appear very hard (like a rock) and is indeed very badass, but you should also consider her as a girl with an interest in boys. She also should have hit puberty around this time and the only guy in her reach would be Sokka. We should not forget that Sokka is kind of a "playboy" - at least he has the most relationships in the Avatar universe. Therefore I guess that she could have developed some feelings for him. Maybe not that far, but I think the interest was definitely there.

There are also some other scenes where their bond shows even further, but first I want to talk about the characters. I am mainly talking about characters who have something to do with the Tokka theory.

First I want to talk about Sokka

Well you all know Sokka as an womanizer. He had an relationship with Yue, a princess, he is/was together with Suki and even in the comics girls had interests in him. In LoK we literally know nothing about him. We only know that he was a member of the console in Republic City and that he died before we started with LoK. This is very strange, because people thought he would have been with Suki, but she wasn't mention in Lok at all. I want to talk about her later.

Did Sokka has an interest in Toph?

Well, I can clearly say no, at least in ATLA. We can see by the pictures and gifs above that Sokka had just friendship in mind. For the fact that around this time he was in a relationship with Suki, he never thought of Toph as a potential girlfriend. He was just protective around the last arc, Zosins comet, because they were friends. Nothing more, nothing less. But, as I said, I can still sensor some deeper trust between them, because Sokka told her she saw her mother in Katara, which is an information that he is not keen to speak about. This changed a bit in the comics. Their interaction were much more present than in the series. A part of it is because in the series the focus was much more in Aang. In the comics they clearly have more interactions because the focus on Aang serving the world went away. In the comics we saw a lot of Zukos life in the palace and how he rules. We also saw an arc, where Aang wants to spread the air nomads culture to volunteers and the issue of avatar Yangchen. Katara and Aang being busy being a couple and Sokka and Katara only come together at the Northern Water Tribe.

Sokka has, more or less, plenty of time to spend. Because Suki worked as a guardian for Zuko, Sokka didn't see Suki on a regular basis. Sokka helped Toph with her metal bending academy in "The Rift". Also in "North and South" Sokka spend time with Toph.

He even gave her all the soft toys he won. In my opinion this is a typical boyfriend-girlfriend moment. He could either safe the toys for Suki, but he doesn't. Also in other situations he wants to be with Toph instead of Aang and Katara. He also praises Toph a lot during the series, in the comics and even LoK you can see it (when Yakone was in court).

Now to Toph Beifong

As a blind, but a noble girl she was restricted by her parents to do any physical work or task due to her disability. She also hates authority and rules a lot due to her parental treatment. In the series, she was 12 year old, as old a Aang. In this time many hit puberty, so I guess she may be in puberty at this time and also starts being interested in the opposite gender. So therefore I asume she had a crush on Sokka for various points (examples) mentioned above.

In the comics she found a metal bending school. For the first time in "The Rift" we get to know a man called "Kanto". Toph seems interested in him as well.

If you read the comic you'll notice that she clearly wants to be in a relationship with him. I think he is the father of Lin, because he has the same hair colour and wavy structure, but also her father's name is "Kanto".

As we know in the end Toph was chief police officer of Republica. She has a second child, who is Suyin.

So indicating Sokka might be the father, what speaks for this theory?

After the end of the war we were sure Sokka and Suki will be together and in the comics and they still are. But according to Google Suki died in a war, so this leaves space between Sokka and Toph to develop a relationship. Furthermore Suki seems to have an interest in Zuko.

This actions are, sure, typical for friends, but the way of acting is hinting of an interest. I wouldn't deny it, it seems very suspicious. Also Zuko might be interested in Suki as well, since they see each other everyday and Mai broke up with him. He still have eyes for Mai, but it's not completely impossible that Suki and Zuko are attracted to each other since they both are very badass and attractive characters.

Due to this fact the relationship between Sokka and Suki might have crumbled, leading to a break up between them. We don't see something about Suki in LoK at all. She just vanished completely, which could indicate her early death. Since we know that Toph has interest in Sokka and he maybe has an slight interest as well, so they might end up. The next hints are in the appearances of Suyin and her children, who have heavy resemblances to Sokka.

I first thought that the resemblance is heavily of Bataars side, the father of them. But the similarities to Sokka are stronger!

Therefore, many of those "evidences" turn into the favor of their relationship.

But what speaks against ist?

So basically I would say that it's still a theory. Sure, there are times where many theories were right, but not all. We are speaking in a room of speculations and as you might know, not all things are clear. For example the mother of Izumi is not mentioned at all. There are things, which should(?) be a mystery or unimportant. Maybe for spicing up the series or just because the authors forgot and made it up later on (e.g. J. K. Rowling does every time).

Secondly I want to point out the strong friendship game everyone has in ATLA. We see a lot of strong friendships, which could hint an interest towards the person, but mostly they stay friends. One reason could be that the authors want to trick us, but I believe that the friendships are strong on purpose, because they want to show how much they connected through the war and their experiences. Having a bit of a chemistry does not mean anything relationship wise, that's nothing new for sure.

Third and lastly I want to stick out that shipping everyone with everyone not only does ruin the atmosphere and characters of the series, but also makes it kinda awkward? I mean I have nothing against ships, but not every gesture means love from both sights. That's nothing new in the avatar world and also in ours. We sure can make ships like we want, but if they happen to be real, wouldn't that make their whole situation somehow awkward? Like Suki and Zuko having "an affair" while Sokka doesn't know anything. Or Sokka making up with Toph because they don't have anyone left. This does not only bring some people in a bad light, but also let the characters seem desperate. I wouldn't like the idea that Sokka lost a love again or that Zuko and Suki cheating, which speaks against their natural characteristics and morality.

So what's the conclusion?

As mostly seen many aspects are based on personal preferences. There are hints of a relationship, but there must not be one. This vision is clearly on the readers mind whether they believe the signs or not. I wouldn't doubt the possibility of their relationship though. There are evidences and there is no clear story in between the comics and the start of LoK. I wouldn't mind if Tokka really happened, but I would not state it as the only truth. As a Tokka shipper, I would say yes to the theory, as a Sukka/other Sokka-ship shipper probably no. Feel free to have your own opinion based on this entry, because that's only what's left.

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roseprincesskristina · 4 years

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Axl's First Exciting Mission

((Hey guys. Today, in going to create a new fan fic today that an idea has flown towards my face. It's about a teenage prototype named Axl, who's very thrilled about the new mission that awaits him, but doesn't really know yet due to the mysterious yet similar maverick hidden within the underground basement of Maverick Hunter HQ that X has warned him about. So again, this story contains yaoi and I understand that it made you uncomfortable. However, if you're a fan, then welcome aboard. Without further ado, please enjoy this fiction. 😊))

Abel City. One of the most clearest town state of all, home of the inhabitants of Earth filled with humans and reploids altogether with meek, sided along of peace. No matter the differences, negligence or other, everyone who is new to the city are freshly more than welcome to live alongside all individuals. Before the roaring stampede of Mavericks would attempt to ruin tranquility, commanded by the gruesome but merciless overlord formerly known as the commander of the Maverick Hunters created by Dr. Cain, Sigma. During the reconnaissance given by his creator to locate the dangerous red maverick, the unstoppable Wily Virus have taken control or finds its way within his core, reestablish the morality. Forcing him to surrender to its power succumbing everything belonging to him, erased right quickly. The growling aura shouts, unleashing the new and improved villain to all who have feared more than their own weaknesses. Gathered up several more irregulars to make an army, destroying the town, killing a few humans, painting the whole planet with his dreams bursting into reality of rearranging a new world for only the strong and powerful reploids to rule. However, it was interrupted by the dynamic duo, X and Zero, shutting down the false fantasy by defeating 8 bosses including the crazed menace. Time and time again. No matter how he would return with more of his invincible forms due to his manipulation of other reploids such Dr. Doppler, Repliforce, Gate, and the rest, the irregular busting crime stoppers will always put an end to his wretched schemes for a new life. After his defeat, tranquility has regain its colors once more, the meaningless conflict between robots and humanity have been silenced. All thanks to the hopeful hunters that every civilization will always look up to.

Not only if there were two that could battle against more threats other than the malicious maverick king, but another hero that arrives to the scene. One that possesses such a great ability like no other being. A compassionate soul so young, lacking maturity yet not the interest of helping those in need when it comes to danger. His name is Axl. Armor themed of the navy blue color striped of red lines, detailed with an X shaped scar across the face by an unknown accident, spiky upward hair and helmet design with a camera lens type inside the crystal. Left the group called Red Alert by his decision on his own to become a hunter due to the view of his friends and scythe wielding leader Red changing their desires of using the briefcase full of chips stolen from Sheeda and the boss for power. Chased by a large mechaniloid, met and teamed up with the crimson sword slasher by taking it down, mistakenly arrested, refused by the indigo pacifist of being or becoming a full pledged hunter, facing off his old colleagues and Red, dueling with the previous mastermind from the beginning and saved the earth again. Still refused, an emergency has been briefed by the blonde navigator, calling to the young gun shooter to race into action.

A new generation built by a blue print, enhanced with the special kind of item known as the Copy Chip. With it, it access the DNA of all reploids even to resist various types of pestilence from every corner. Sadly, the least have chosen to become corrupted as a maverick, including the flesh hating ex commander, at will. None of them have ever experienced such a miracle bestowed upon them. But it doesn't mean that they're immortal. The generation have the same mortality as a few reploids and human alike, making them quite special within their own way possible. Posing them, including the youngster, as hopes of the future as well as protectors. For the land will relax in meekfulness while the heroes do the rest.

Somewhere at Hunter Base, a secret government domain of skilled hunters, the autumn hair youngling rests around the table with legs crossed, seating into the chair slightly bored after the war has ended. Blowing a mist of a sigh. Sure there are no crimes of fire that would be happening right now, but nothing very exciting could ever seek for his attention. For he is lingering in his own boredom by daydreaming.

"Man... This is so boring... Couldn't there be anything fun around here for me do so I wouldn't die in my own sleep?" Groaned the teenage prototype, tilting the side of his head against the hand. Slowly collapsing into a tired state until the Class A expert would arrive at his direction, folding his arms.

"Listen, Axl. I know that you're furiously bored cause of no casualties or invading threats coming to screw up everyone's day, but you have to learn to be patient and let disaster come to us first when duty calls." He explained.

"I know... But it's just no fun sitting around the base to do ABSOLUTELY nothing. Sigh... This is lame..." He griped silently.

"We get it, kiddo. There isn't a speck of villainy around these parts, but It's not the end of the world that quickly, ya know."

"Well.... I guess you're right, Zero. Don't know why I was whining about since we took care of that maverick jerkface. I mean, the three of us, taking the toll on him."

"Heh. I know, and you even single handedly knocked out Sigma with your special copy ability to save our asses. "

"Darn right! Heh. He didn't know what hit him! Thanks to you guys, the legendary Maverick Hunters!"

"No, kid. Thank YOU. Without your help, we would've been dead right now. You're the real hero that the world needs."

"You think so?"

"I know so. But you still got a lot to learn when you're a hunter. Facing with tougher baddies, saving the innocents and all that."

"You got it, boss! Thanks again." Grinned Axl.

"Anytime."

Both of them stare into their peers for just a moment until the reploid teen would lean closer, accidentally deepens the long haired senior with a longing kiss. Laying his hands onto his cheek when he blush with surprised.

"Mmmph?!"

"Mmmm... Mmmmm..."

"Mmmmmph...!"

"Mmmm... Hmm?! Oh shoot! Sorry Zero!" He pulled himself away.

"Axl! What the hell are you doing?! We're not supposed to be doing something inappropriate in public!" He angrily flustered.

"Oops... He he... My bad... Didn't know what got over me."

"Ugh... Look, just try to control yourself, OK? Cause it's getting too weird. And by the way, X told me about an unknown maverick yesterday."

"Really? There's a new bad guy?"

"Mhmm. He was incredibly dangerous. Not to mention as a vampiric version."

"A vampire?"

"Yes. The creature of the night that drinks the blood of mortals to survive, like in the movies. But this baddie is different. He possess as an incubus of some sort. Flirting with woman both reploid and human at once. Or perhaps secretly someone else... Acted very sultry as his personality, but enhanced with an elemental use. Like ice for starters."

"Whoa... Is he really dangerous?"

"Precisely. He had both vampire and incubus personas. But a calming expression. Also with sneaky eyes."

"Wow.... "

Furthermore, he continuously explains more of the mysterious figure's tricks and powerful elements aiding his claws, warning the rookie about what he could do anyone with the unavoidable "secret weapon" that he tells X and crew. Unlike the young gun slinger, everyone is quite aware of this deadly strategy.

"Is that so?" He asked.

"Yes. It's something that no other reploid would escape from. Once being controlled, there's no chance of resisting against it before the..." Unable to say the rest of the sentence it out loud, he finish it by speaking into the kid's earport. Then made him jump of shock.I

"NO WAY! He seduces them?!"

"Not so loud. But yes. He performs a sexual lip locking with females of all kinds. Endlessly."

"Holy crap.... And I thought that a succubus would do the same thing to a guy."

"Yeah. Plus, he would even get a taste of their bodies if necessary..."

"Ewww..."

"But anyway, there's nothing to worry about it now. We've already sealed him underneath the containment basement built with preventable locks." He assured to the wild child, patting his shoulder. "So all is well."

"Heh. Guess so. I was getting a little frantic there. Say, what if he would do the same to me?" He said curiously. But on the inside, quite scared.

"Come on, Axl. There's no way that he would get to you. Or is there?* Smirked the golden headed saber wielder, teasing him.

"Uh oh...."

"Oh, I'm just yanking your chains. So long as you stay put, far away from that containment cell. I'm counting you to remain on your post. Understood?"

"Yes sir! I'll try my best!" He saluted.

"Good. I'll be in the meeting room. Do your best, Axl." Ordered Zero as he nodded.

"You got it!"

"One more thing... If anything happens when you're in danger, be sure to contact me or X by the earport."

"Roger that!"

"Oh. And one last thing..." He went up to the energetic teen boy, grabs him by the head to return the sinking kiss aggressively.

"Mmmph!!"

"Mmmmmmmmmwah. There. Now we're even."

"Ack! *Cough cough* Geez, Zero! Guess that'll teach me a lesson!"

"Just giving back the favor. Try to continue your duty, got that?" He chuckled teasingly, before leaving for a meeting.

"Yes sir...." Spat the young begginer.

With the examination talk aside, he walked off to attend a meeting with other hunters and navigators. But, then stopped for a pondering solution just for the lad in dark blue due to the kiss. Stood there into the middle of the hall, he felt the affected warmth melting away the coldness by touching his lips. Even though he haven't experienced nor practice empathy towards anyone but to his friends that he deeply trusts before.

"Huh... What is this weird tingling that I'm getting? Sure it was an accident, but... it feels so soft... And tense..." He imagined. "Hmm... Maybe the kiss wasn't such a bad accident after all. Actually, it's kinda hot too... Mmmm... Axl... He really is a good kid, even though his immaturity annoys the hell outta me a little." Smiling slowly from the straight stern written on his face, the idea has driven to his mind for a moment. Granting him the opportunity to pose as dangerous yet sexy winged maverick for his young friend to "fight off" with. He quickly walks into the room while no one is looking, morphing his original armor into an Absolute transformation to act as the unknown maverick.

"He he he... Perhaps I'll give the brave little hunter a special solo mission he'll never forget~ A chilling "battle", that is~" He plotted. Cycling his tongue around the pale lips, tasting the smooching marks led by the novice hunter from the former organization of assassins. For a surprise trick will never fail to get the jump on him.

Meanwhile, outside into the garden fields behind HQ during midnight, the emerald eyed gun blaster is relaxing his butt off from all the boring worriness dancing across his head all cheered up from the conversation he had with the die hard blonde, arms at the back of his head and boots crossed. Watching above the glittering stars of the night skies, so beautiful and sparkly to his pupils.

"Ahhh... What a beautiful nightfall... No wars, criminals or intruding crooks around at bay... Just some all out peace at last...." Sighed the dual wielding lad, succumbed by the wonders of the brighten dots as well as the graceful moon. The decent opposite of daytime for every or less generations to witness, secondly to lay back and watch. Everything that the red violet ex maverick have said about peace is very true, no worries, miscreants or anything too risky for that matter. It is a cesspool of non violent freedom to swim about all the time without ever getting out.

"I really miss Red... He's like the true father I never had, before going bonkers from those stupid case loaded with corny chips that changed him... Sigh.... But, his DNA will always be carried within my mimic enhancement... And in my memories too..." Tears have descended from his eyes, remembering of his foster father that caused him to grieve. However, as the new recruited hunter, he wiped them off by fist to get his spirit together.

"*Sniff...* What am I sobbing for...? Big boys don't cry. They would stay valiant and kick the crap outta fear! Heck, I'm a brave man now, in fact, I'm a Maverick Hunter! Yeah! Those creeps are gonna be very sorry if they first took a gander of me!" Cheering himself up with self encouragement, he would practice his kicks into the middle of the garden, fantasizing of him shooting multiple enemies who are robbing banks, abusing civilians and more. Hearing the applause washing all over him, women admire his fearlessness by delicate smooches. It will be his wonderful dream come true.

"Yeah.... That's right, ladies... Plenty of me to go around... He he he..." He imagines of himself surrounded by women giving him kisses by gently stroking his body all over. Until suddenly, a ringing has disturbed his daydreaming sequence. Must be an emergency or some sort. Or worse, he might have done anything disrespectful by switching the report papers. He then respond by the ear port.

"This is Axl."

"He he he he.... Hello there, Maverick Hunter Axl...." Then, a sudden deep voice has reached to him with a comely yet seductive vibe.

"Who is this?! Where's Zero?!" Replied Axl, demanding for a certain answer.

"There's no need to be angry, boy... I'm sure that he's perfectly safe with me... For now... He he he..." He replied.

"You bastard!"

"Mmm... Aren't we fueled with anger? I like that in a boy~ Truly that I would admire a woman, but never mind them... For I already found someone right in front of me~"

"Found who!?"

"You~"

What the young pistol user didn't really know, despite of a mysterious call, is that a dangerous "maverick" was quietly behind him the entire time. He have felt his chilling presence speaking to his ears until he jumped back from the "enemy".

"What the?! Who are you?!"

"He he he... Haven't your precious red friend ever warned you about me~?"

"So you're that scary looking maverick jerk that he told me about!"

"Precisely~ But enough of the meaningless introductions~ I've come here to have fun with you~" Approaching the incubus themed reploid, making his way to the youthful ward of the hunters.

"W...What are you doing?! Step off from me!" He quivered slightly, reversing himself from his opponent while trying to gulp his pride whole. "Y..You're suppose to seduce women, not men!"

"You're correct, my young plaything~ But...." He teleported for moment. Seeing as kind of a magic trick, the former member of Red Alert was infuriated by that. But, giving him a chance to draw out his trusty Axl Bullets just in case the malicious "intruder" reveals himself again.

"All right. This is it. Time to take out some maverick tr-" Then, something very impossible has happened to him. He was interrupted by the disappearing individual, now visible, by placing his clawed hand upon his innocent cheeks. Rubbing them for a quick second until the touch has intrigued his interests.

"Ohh yes~ Your flawless face is so passionate, along with your delicious figure~ So hot~" He examined, circling his palms very slowly.

"H...Huh...?!" He frozed.

"Not only do I desire for females, but in secret, I love males as well~ That's why I found you, little boy~ Now, how about a little privacy to shield ourselves from this world~?

"Are you insane?! Why would I wanna date a-" Stopped once more with a hungry kiss had made the adolescent reploid dropped his weapons. Defeated by something very consensual that he had never seen before.

"Mmmmph! Mmmph!"

"Mmmmmm~ Just try to relax~ And let go of your unwanted fury you've kept for so long~" Repelled the goth colored vampire, staring at his leaf colored eyes to hypnotize him.

"Mmmmm...." At last, he was fully compelled to the deadly spell that Zero mentioned earlier. He tried to fight it off, but it too late.

"Good boy~ Now, let's retreat into a secret place to have our little mission together~ Forever~"

"Yes, master..."

Teleporting both him, along with his mind controlled captive to a darker basement cell underneath the base to continue their "battle" in peace, they can finally have a much more privacy zone to make some love. Setting the youngling onto the bed gently while pinning him down softly, he began to sip his longing kiss once again into a seductive way.

"Mmm~ Mmmmm~ God, your lips are very tasty, but yet beautiful~ I love it when it shines brightly than a diamond~" He was fascinated by his pure and polished lips.

"Mmmm..." The future hunter would conduct the same while hugging around his master's neck, giving into the lip mashing. Connecting both of their armored bodies with approach to began the intensive grinding. Gripped tightly of their embrace to never release each other or to be separated. Finally alone together, into the dark underground area filled with nothing but lights which will be activated automatically by clapping. But it's probably best to have them off for a special night just for two.

Their anatomy would polish one another into a normal pace, meeting face to face. Or perhaps chest to chest. Jointed into a pleasurable condition as the demonic ice maverick tilted his head towards the thinly neck of the rambunctious prototype, running up and down of his snake like tongue to please him.

"U...Unh~..."

"He he he... You like that~? How about this~?" He downward his tongue a little further, all over his body, and mostly, his little private briefs.

"Unh... Unh....!" The flustered expression has appeared in his face.

"That's it, little man~ Let it all out~"

"Unh.... Unh... Unh.... Oh man.... It's so good... Unh..."

He continued to taste more of the youthful newbie, onto the legs, even the chest and mouth. Then returns for a thirsty tongue on tongue action to juice up the peacefully mood.

"Mmmph...." Moaned the pea shooting individual.

"Mmmmm~"

Their tongues were performing a tango during a kiss. Enjoying a perfectly evening at meek for a desirable dance. Dipping one of them after a dazzling twirl. Outside, the incubus would place his clawed hand upon the dual wielding lad's cute little buttocks for a casual spanking.

"Ahh....!"

"Well, you have been a very naughty boy, Axl~" He said playfully, gripping it very hungrily.

"Ahh...! Yes, I'm a very bad boy, master..." He moaned again, but with an enjoyable act.

"You know what happens to bad little boys~? They deserved a good spanking~"

He then gives him a very good slap to the ass, not too hard but lightly. Patting it like a beloved pet.

"Mmm... More master..." Begged Axl.

"That's more like it~ Yes, you may have another~" He rapidly punishes the tiny little rump. Just to give him more.

This was his first special mission he had with the shadowed themed hunter unlike any kind. Thrilling and exciting for a boat load of duels awaiting for his call when it comes to danger. He asked for something dangerous, now it arrives to him and was purposely delivered. Endlessly lingering by his ice user's grasp, but an a lustful way. Flushing away his tired boredom along with the annoyed whining down the toilet for good. For the new memories of his new friends have replaced the previous one from his mind, straighteningly stored to inherit it forever.

And finally, the true feud shall finally commenced.

"Now then~ Are you ready~?" Questioned the winged hunter.

"Ready when you are, master." He replied, lending his neck closely to him with his dipped head.

"Yeeeeeesssss~ I'm going to enjoy this more like I admire you~" He grinned, revealing his white diamond fangs for a scrumptious dinner. Axl was a little nervous, but not afraid to allow his mentor to seduce his sexy neck. Hissing very quietly with a purr, he gently bit it, inserting his fangs into the synthetic flesh.

"A...Ahhh...."

"Mmmmm~"

Like any other vampire whose patiently desperate for blood in order to survive, he is interest into necks. One of his favorite sexual parts of the body that will never cease to amaze him by the slightest. It really inspired his needs even more than talon his enemies with one strike. Plus, he even dreams in his slumber. And now, he finally had a chance to permanently suck on the thin yet strongly part of the new gen teenager.

"Mmmmmmmm~ So sexy~" He moaned comely, wiggling the tongue to clean off the blood from the marks on his disciple's neck.

"Ahhh..." He moaned yet again, puffing out a warm steam from his mouth. Enjoying his solo mission to the fullest than just lounging around at his post.

"Mmm~ Your blood is so hyper and sweet~ I really appreciate it so much, Axl~" Licked the unknown maverick, who later showed his true identity by removing his helmet. The rookie gunner gasped, knowing it was...

"Zero!?"

"Hey, kiddo~ Liking your new mission~?" Said the pale blonde upperclassmen. The plot twist has shocked the scarred youth.

"You're the unnamed maverick?!"

"That's right~ Just giving you a new lesson when this is all over~"

"No freaking way! I...I'm really sorry for kissing like that! It's not like me at all! I..." He was silenced by his friend's deep smooch as his forgiveness for the accident that occurred from the start.

"Heh. Don't worry about it, you cute little runt~ Accidents happen sometimes when you're new~ So there's no need to get all apologetic about it~"

"Well... You're right, Zero. Thanks for understanding." He cheered up.

"So~ Ready to continue our little private mission together, partner?"

"You know it, boss~"

And so, two hunters have resume their reconnaissance by kissing into the lips once more, making out in peace with the saber wielding senior's wings folded across them for a more comfortable terms.

"Oh Zero~"

"Axl~"

"Zero~...."

"Axl~....."

"Zero~...." He whispered.

"Axl~...." Same with the black crimson blond.

Tranquillity has comfort the town of Abel City during the return, free from the dreaded master and his army of mavericks pillaging amok by trying to scare humanity from the face of existence, all dealt with by the fearless Maverick Hunters. And not to mention Axl as well, the third hero that the world will look up to and will always count on. He may have lack immaturity unlike X and Zero, but has the potential will for caring about his trustworthy friends and saving everyone from certain devastation invading the earth. But for now, all is peace once again. And their thinks belong to the true hero for his bravery to protect mankind at all cost and his pure of heart. Thank you, Maverick Hunter Axl, for your limitless generosity and protection of all humans and reploids living in equality, as well as in harmony.

The End

#megaman #zero #axl #yaoi #absolute zero #fan fic #2020 #story

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asterisquebloomed · 4 years

Text

Follow Forever

I seen a few of these before, and I thought what with the year ending, perhaps this was a good idea to do in commemoration of these past two years. I know I haven’t been the most active of RP partners. I’m really slow and my motivation is fickle, but I love RPing, I love writing, and I’ll never give it up, it brings me so much joy writing with everyone. So in honor of all that has happened, and as wish for more to come, here are some words of gratitude to some of my partners, friends, and mutuals.

@breakingreality

Avo, where do I even start with you? Oh I know, that you’re fucking amazing? Is that a good place to start? It better be, because here we go.

You are my best friend out of all the people I’ve met here in these last two years. I love talking to you, gushing about our characters, scheming and plotting future threads, teasing you with unanswered questions and unsolved mysteries, teasing you in general really, and just talking about whatever may cross my mind at the time. You’re easy to talk to, easy to get along with, and super friendly. I’m so happy to have met you and made friends with you, you have no idea. I’ll fucking fight anyone who dares talk shit about you. You’re understanding, smart, clever as fuck, and are one of the most enjoyable people to talk to. You’re a great writer, a great creator, and an even greater friend. I look forward to talking to you and I thoroughly enjoy your company. I don’t think you’ve ever once pissed me off, which is amazing because I have the shortest fucking temper ever. I wholeheartedly appreciate you and everything we’ve done thus far. If you ever need someone to talk to, to vent to, to confide in, whatever, I’m here for you. So if you ever feel lonely, or unwanted, or like you’re being ignored, come talk to me, cause I’ll never ignore you.

On that note, let’s turn our attention towards the RP side of things shall we? You’re an amazing writer, a wonderful RP partner, and your character are great. Like I love Eli, she’s fucking fantastic. Her sassy attitude, her impulsive nature, her quirky habits (Please don’t eat frozen steak Eli) and just all the intricacies and nuances, every single thing about her is great. A girl forced to grow up too fast, a child forced to face her mortality before she even got a chance to live. So when faced with two options, to die sad and alone without ever having had a chance to truly enjoy all that life has to offer, or to live by forsaking her humanity, the choice was obvious. She gave herself to the darkness, embraced being a monster, all for that chance. A chance to experience, to enjoy, to live. I’m sure most of us would make the same choice if we were faced with such a dismal situation.

Eli is amazingly written, you bring her to life in a way most could only hope to achieve. Her reactions are organic and visceral. She’s such an emotional girl, as much as she tries to hide it behind that stoic facade of hers. Her emotions are so raw and powerful that they sway the reader to feel along with her. To feel her fury as she fights against those who have done terrible things to her or those she loves, to feel her happiness however short lived it tends to be, and to feel her sorrow, the deep, bitter sorrow that seems to constantly plague her very existence. She can never seem to escape it. The abuse, the torment, the manipulation, all the suffering she goes through, that leads her to the edge, and when presented with it, she jumps. She leaps into circumstances she never fully understood, dives into a dark and twisted world, one full of horrific tragedy. Before she knows it and before she’s even aware, she’s lost her humanity. She’s become a monster, not only in name, but in nature as well. She’s become the demon those nuns claimed her to be, and she murders her tormentors for the things they have done to her. She gets taken in by a morally questionable individual and is put to work as an assassin, forced to kill people who are the same as she once was, humans who became monsters and lost control. She’s forced to essentially kill herself, over and over again. She’s been isolated her entire life. Made to mistrust others, to be distant, to be cold, to be uncaring.

And then she meets a girl, a special girl who accepts her for what she is. A girl who, while initially afraid of the truth that was revealed to her, overcomes that fear, because what you are doesn’t matter, it’s who you are that is important. She accepts her, refuses to let her go, and swears to never abandon her. For probably the first time in Eli’s whole life, she has a friend. Someone who truly cares about her and enjoys her presence. It’s no wonder she fell in love is it?

But like all things in this poor girl’s life, it’s fated to end in tragedy.

Listen, I love Eli, she’s a great character, she’s compelling, nuanced, and with so much depth, of both emotion and personality. She’s conflicted, she struggles, she has ups and downs, she feels and wants, she’s both silly and serious. She’s like a real person. She’s not just one thing, but many things, all blended together to create a single individual, just like we are.

You’ve done an absolutely fantastic job writing this girl. You should take pride in what you’ve done, because you’ve created an amazing character here.

I adore her relationship with Ivalinne and Reiko. They’re such stark contrasts to each other, such different dynamics, and the conflict between the three is great.

Which brings me to threads, I’ve loved every single one, and I have SO many ideas for more. I’ve got so many plans and schemes and plots in my head that I have yet to spring on you since I don’t want to overwhelm you, and I hope we’ll get to explore each and every one of them. I can’t wait!

You are probably the biggest fan of everything I do. You support me in my endeavors and are always cheering me on, and I thank you for that, I really appreciate your support, how much you enjoy my stories and characters, it makes me so incredibly happy. You’re probably the biggest fan of Ivalinne’s story, and by far the most vocal. I hope you’ll continue to partake in my stories as I tell them, I’d love to have you along for the ride.

Have I heaped enough praise on you yet? I could probably go on for hours about how amazing you are, so in the interest of not making this post even longer than it already is, I’ll stop here.

Avo, you’re great is all aspects, and I hope we continue to write together for as long as is possible. I look forward to the coming year and all the wonderful threads we’ll surely write together in 2020.

@intrinsicmirage

Aster, you’re such an amazing writer. Your narration is beautiful, I love the way it flows and how poetic it is. It’s a pleasure to read the things you write and a joy to see you on the dash.

You are a creative force, your ideas and concepts are awe-inspiring. The lore you’ve crafted is so interesting and well thought out, from the Coils to the Shroud, to the various species you’ve made all from scratch. You have an amazing mind and I love seeing what you come up with. Your characters are compelling, interesting, and in some cases downright terrifying. S9 is a fearsome being, an ancient god risen from the dead yearning for the power they once had and more, intent to make the universe bend to their will and take all they can get.

Syn is great. A woman struggling with her past and trying to find meaning, going from a materialistic, greedy mercenary whose focus rested solely on the wealth and possessions she could gain, to her confronting her past and taking on the trials of the Coils. She’s so haunted by her pasts traumas that in the past she couldn’t bear to speak of them, and to confront them head on took a lot of courage. She comes out triumphant and sees the world in a new light, making her realize just how pointless her treasure trove of amassed wealth is, and that there’s something much more important than money and material things. She takes her future into her own hands, reshapes herself and takes control of her own identity, giving herself a new name, one that she chose for herself, one that wasn’t given to her by someone else. It was hers and hers alone. Now known as Malam’schir, she sets her sights far higher than she once did as Syn, seeking to tear down a corrupted system of power where the strong reign supreme. All that she willingly puts herself through and endures for that goal, it’s admirable. She’s done a lot of horrible things throughout her life. She’s never been what one would consider selfless, in fact, she’s been the opposite, and for someone like that to, in the end, work towards helping the weak who are trapped under the heel of corrupt monarchies and corporations who hold an iron grip on the planets and systems in the galaxy, that is some amazing character development.

I think it really is amazing when a writer can make you feel for a character that isn’t morally sound and who is either grey, or downright evil. It takes a lot of skill to get the audience to invest in and sympathize with a character who isn’t an obvious hero. To have the reader root for someone who has killed countless people without a second thought, who lies and steals and does whatever it takes to achieve their goals, that in my opinion is a true sign of a skilled writer.

And you’ve done exactly that. I find myself wanting Malam’schir to succeed, cheering her on even when full well knowing that during the Lifeforce Coil she’s systematically torturing and murdering people to gain a better understanding of how that energy works before assimilating the lifeforce of those she’s killed into her own to bolster herself for the journey ahead. How detrimental this act becomes to her, as all the memories and personalities of all those she’s absorbed blend together. The gambles she takes as she descends into the Nine Hells and the risk all of this poses to her, not just physically, but on a fundamental level. The question of ‘is she still herself’ when all of those personalities merge and intermingle. What is truly her and what is inherited from all the souls she’s consumed. It’s fascinating and I can’t wait to see how it all turns out.

You’ve done an excellent job with your characters. They really feel like actual people, not mere concepts, but individuals with a will all their own. You bring them to life in such a spectacular way and it’s an honor to be able to write with you.

As a creator, I look up to you. You inspire me to go further and deeper, to explore beyond the world I created and reach out into the universe in which it exists. To explore my concepts on a cosmic scale rather than on a planetary one, and I thank you for that.

You’re a great friend, easy to talk to, fun to bounce ideas off of, and just an overall welcoming person. I’m glad to have met you and it makes me so happy that we’re friends. We’ve been mutuals since almost the beginning, sometime in March of 2018 or so, over the course of so many URL changes that I had to give you your own tag just to keep track of them all, and it’s been wonderful having you along for the ride. Thank you for your support through these years and for your continued interest in what I do.

I absolutely adore our ship and have so many ideas for what is to come for Reiko and Syn/Mala. Despite them both being terrible people, their relationship is so pure and beautiful. A love without expectations, one that doesn’t judge or hold the other to some sort of standard or code of conduct. A love with no burdens, but just simply being there with one another, enjoying the moment and each other’s presence. It’s so wonderful and I love every instance of it. Such rich emotion and such a profound love, even though both believe themselves unfit for love and unworthy of being loved. For such dangerous beings which such questionable morality, they are so sweet together. The fact that these two, who are ultimately very selfish individuals, would do anything to protect the other—even if it cost them their very lives—is so beautiful, it touches my heart.

I look forward to what is to come in the new year and hope to continue writing with such a wonderful writer for as long as I can, and I hope you too, feel the same way.

@sisterofthedevil / @cruentusscarlet�� / And more

Flan, you’re the reason I’m here in the first place. You were the first person I reached out to when I decided to come back here and enter the RP community. It was due to you that I got to join that first discord server, the first one I was ever in. It’s my home and I treasure it so much, so much so that even if that server is slowly declining, I’ll never leave it, because it’s the first place I got to call my home on discord. All of the friends I’ve made, all of them are thanks to that first step. If it wasn’t for you I might not have been able to make my place here. I’m so grateful for that. Even if we don’t talk much, I still consider you a good friend. And that’s not to mention how great of an RP partner you are.

Reiko and Flandre’s thread is one of my favorite threads I’ve had to date. I’ve loved every moment of it, it’s been such an intense roller coaster of emotions, and it’s probably the only thread where all of Reiko has been on full display. I hope going forward into 2020 that we can continue to write together.

You’re a great writer with such a unique style. Each one of your muses is fleshed out with intricate details and is a different spin on things, What with Flan having accidentally killed her sister and become the new mistress of the manor. Remilia embracing the role of being a terrifying monster and doing horrible things without batting an eyelash. Parsee being trapped not only emotionally and mentally, but spiritually and physically as well, unable to leave the bridge and be free. Satori, despite the horrors she’s witnessed, does not just follow suit to her species. You’ve given attention to every little detail, from the placement of her veins to the way she would have to put clothes on to accommodate them to the lasting effects of being able to read minds and bring other’s traumas to the surface. Alice is such a unique take on her as Shinki’s daughter, I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything similar in regards to Alice’s origins and it’s amazing.

Each one of your muses shows how much thought you put into the characters you play and how dedicated you are to them. All of their trauma is very much real, and you portray it so well. There is never an easy fix to such problems, and you’ve done their struggles justice and shown just how hard it is to live with things like loss and abuse. Never does it feel like their trauma is overlooked or minimized, and their struggles with their demons and all the torment they’ve endured is very real, and how each one of them deals with their trauma in a different way shows such deep understanding of how different people react to things differently and everyone has their own way of coping.

I hope going into the next year that we’ll continue to RP together, there’s so much more I want to see and explore with your muses. You’re a great person, and I wish you all the best for the coming year.

@catacombofsouls

Lina, we’ve only become mutuals rather recently compared to most on this list, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed talking with you over these past months. It’s great to have someone to scream about The Case Study of Vanitas and Pandora Hearts with. You’re friendly and easy to talk to, and you’re always up for whatever ideas I come up with, or happen to mention. Really, you’re a very kind person and I enjoy your company. I hope going forward we’ll continue to be friends and RP partners for the foreseeable future.

I know with my recent lack of motivation that our threads haven’t gotten very far. With any luck, I’ll be able to regain my motivation and write more frequently. You have so many muses I want to interact with, particularly your OCs. Light is a very interesting character and I want to interact with her at some point in the future. I have quite a few ideas, but I don’t want to overwhelm you or myself for that matter, so once I get our threads going again and I’m not in draft hell, I’ll come to you with some even more fucking up ideas!

Thank you for reading Ivalinne’s story! I’m glad you enjoyed it, and I hope you’ll stick around for the stories to come! I’m glad you like my characters and I hope you’ll continue to enjoy what I create going forward.

@mayohigan-orange / @witchwaltzing

Cobalt, I know you don’t think you’re a good writer and all, but you really are. You’re not only fun to RP with, but fun to talk to as well.

Reiko and Chen’s interactions have been a wild ride, and a highly amusing one at that. Chen has such a feisty personality and she’s not afraid to speak her mind, or to even cuss someone out, regardless of who they are. Though that seems to get her in trouble more often than not. Between her picking fights with all the wrong people, and her devotion to those she cares about, Chen is joy to have around. Even with Ivalinne, who she hardly knows, she’s promised to keep her safe and she won’t betray her word. She’s an admirable little kitten who tries her best. She’s still very childish and her lack of worldly experience shows with just how easily Reiko has been able to get things to go her way, which still astounds me since that’s entirely unplotted and we just go with the flow with our threads.

At first glance, your Chen appears to be just the cute cat often seen in fanon, but once you get to know her, you see that there’s more to her than just that. You’ve developed her character and given her depth. Her eagerness to prove herself, to live up to her Master’s name and legacy, how desperate she is to do so despite the risks. How protective she is of those close to her, and even those she’s only recently met. She’s a good girl with a strong heart and even stronger convictions, and how passionate she is shows in not only her words, but her actions as well.

You don’t give yourself enough credit. You’re a great writer, and a fun RP partner who pushes themselves to do more. I seem to recall you not being too confident in fight threads, but here you are, writing one with me and doing it spectacularly. You’re dependable and reliable, probably one of the most reliable RP partners I’ve had the pleasure of writing with. You’ve never once dropped one of our threads, even though we have so many, and that’s something I greatly respect.

You’re a good friend. You’re easy to get along with, and you’re so casual and friendly, joking around and just overall are an enjoyable presence to have around. It makes me happy that you were so enthusiastic about Ivalinne’s story, to the point of wanting to change the ending. To have someone be so invested in something I wrote is amazing. I’ve done my job as a writer if I’ve made the reader feel for my characters and root for them, and I’m so glad you enjoyed it so much. Thank you for your support and your continued patronage, I hope you’ll continue to read my stories and continue to RP with me moving forwards into the coming year. Don’t doubt yourself, you’re a good writer, and I’m sure you’ll only get better as you go.

@soulwitch / @volatilepaths

Kako, you’re really just amazing on all fronts. You’re a great supportive friend, a calm voice of reason, and a wonderful and dedicated writer. You put so much of yourself into everything you do. You’re always there to help anyone who needs it, always willing to give advice and be there for those who are having a tough time, it’s really awe-inspiring just how much you give to not only the community as a whole, but to everyone you interact with. I know I’m frustrating to deal with at times, but you never give up on me, and I really appreciate that. So many others would have just been done with me, they wouldn’t have tried to work things out and make sure an understanding was reached. I’m really grateful for that. The problems I’ve come to you with, and you’ve helped me work through, I’m grateful for that, truly. You’re so friendly and accommodating, always wanting to make sure your partner is happy and comfortable, and that they’re enjoying how each and every thread goes. The way you put others needs ahead of your own is really admirable. You’re a great person, and you deserve all the best, really.

You writing is great, and your characters are amazing. You’re not afraid to delve into some really dark topics and that, in my opinion, takes a lot of courage. Jeanne is absolutely terrifying, through and through. She’s a great villain and a force to be reckoned with. A woman so utterly broken by all she’s been through that she’s become such a monster, one who cares not what evils she commits. She lies, she manipulates, she does whatever it takes to get what she wants, to satiate her desires. She’s a masterpiece of a villain, and I really need to find some way to get to see more of her. Reiko utterly despises her, and wants absolutely nothing to do with the woman, to stay as far away as she can and to keep Jeanne from encroaching upon her. They’ll never be able to get along thanks to Jeanne hitting upon the things she most abhors, so I’ll have to come up with something else, because I do want to interact with Jeanne. I want to see more of her, try to understand her better, she’s a character with a lot of depth, and I want to see more than just the surface.

Which brings me to the Redbellion event. Everything about that was amazing, Kako. From the story, to the interactivity, to the sheer size and the amount of time and thought put into everything. It was great and I’m glad to have been a part of it, even if it was only a small one due to my own anxieties. You were so helpful and accommodating, making sure I who was late to join, was able to get in on the action and feel like I made a difference in the event. I’m proud to have contributed, happy with what I got to do. It was fun reading through the various stories that came from it. I got invested in quite a few things and found my emotions swinging to the tune of your words. The androids that struggled to survive as they were divided between their mother and their nature as synthetic beings, Core who became a terrifying abomination, and Harune, who sacrificed all she held dear just to save this dying galaxy. It was a beautiful story and you did an amazing job bringing to life not just a single world, but an entire galaxy. It’s amazing what you did. You put so much time and effort into the whole thing. The sheer depth of your dedication and devotion is admirable. I could never hope to do something like that, let alone carry it all the way to the end. Your determination is amazing, and you have my deepest respect for your efforts.

You’re someone I look up to, someone I’m glad to know and happy to have the honor to write with. I know I haven’t been the best of RP partners, what with my sporadic activity and my flighty muses and motivation. I’m sorry for that, and I hope that I can do better in the coming year. You’re a great writer, an amazing person, and a wonderful friend, and you deserve all the best in the coming year.

@unhingedsea / @sophisticatedsuccubus / @justthatdamnrich / And more

Ellen, I know we haven’t spoken much recently, but I hope we’re still as close as we were a couple months ago. I miss having you check in on me and message me. I really enjoy your presence and love talking with you. Hearing about your ideas, how you’re branching out into fandomless OCs of your own setting, it makes me excited to see what you create. I hope you’ll bring them to tumblr so that we can interact and I can see more of them.

Your characters are a diverse mix of drastically different personalities. From Wada, who is batshit insane by any measure, to the shy and socially awkward 2pi, to the rage filled Klowni, you have such a varied mixture of characters. I’ve enjoyed the threads that we had, even though they were rather short-lived. I hope we’ll get to RP more in the coming year, I really want to see where things will go, especially with that thread between Reiko and Jo’on.

I know you’ve been struggling lately, feeling like what you’re doing has lost it’s appeal, and that you’ve lost touch with those who you once interacted with frequently, but I don’t think that’s the case. Everyone has been really busy lately for some reason, many people that were once frequent on the dash are active less these days, and it’s sad to see, but I don’t think it’s that they have lost interest in what you do. I for one haven’t, and I never will. You’re a joy to see on the dash and I hope you’ll come back and RP here more. I definitely want you around, and I’m sure others do too. So please, believe in yourself, I’m sure you can do it.

You’re such a great person. So friendly and welcoming, always cheering everyone on. You told me you swore to be that positive light for others, no matter what it takes, and that’s something amazing. Something I would never be able to do. I hope you won’t burn yourself out, because giving so much is a hard thing to do, especially in an unkind world. I hope you don’t give up, that you keep going and striving to be who you want to be. If you ever need someone to talk to, I’m always here for you.

Thank you so much for being such a fan of Ivalinne’s story. When you told me that reading my writing, reading my story, motivated you into writing, I was honored. That my writing could have such a profound effect on someone, it’s unreal. I’m happy you enjoyed it and I hope you’ll continue to read as I write Eliyah’s story and more.

@fxtelism

Dennis, you’re a good friend and I’m grateful to have someone I can confide in about the things I can’t tell anyone else. You’re nice, friendly, and easy to talk to and get along with. I really appreciate your company.

Thanks to tumblr eating the notifications of our threads at every turn, we haven’t made much progress RP wise, but hopefully that will change in the coming year. I want to see more of your characters and get to know them, get more interactions, and develop our muses further. Leon is really sweet and it’s adorable how much of a flustered mess he is, it’s great. Soft boys are good! Manifestation is very interesting, an opposite to the kind and friendly person who he was created from. I’m curious to see where things could go with both of them. If just tumblr would stop eating notifications.

Now then, Ivalinne’s story. Thank you so much for reading. You have no idea how much it means to me. When you were reading and mentioned that one thing, I was so excited to see you get to the end. Having someone realize and notice things really is great. Probably the best feeling I’ve ever felt. I hope you enjoyed her journey and will continue to read the stories I’ll tell in the future, because I’ve got plenty more to tell!

@echointheforest

Marii, you’re a great friend, and thank you for all your support. You’re so welcoming and easy to talk to about literally anything. I never feel awkward talking to you about things, even though I sometimes worry I bother you too much.

ReiMarii is love, ReiMarii is life. I adore our ship. It’s the first ship I’ve ever had, and it’s been amazing. Thank you so much for introducing me to shipping, I’m so grateful for it. Shipping is so much fun, so full of feels, and I love it. I hope shipping with Reiko hasn’t been too angsty for you, it seems that no matter what, everything comes up bittersweet, and I hope that doesn’t upset you. I love how Reiko and Marii are together, it’s adorable. Everyone else only sees the surface, the bitchy exterior that woman presents to the world. and they write her off as that being all there is to her. But there’s so much more to her than what’s on the surface, and exploring all that lies beneath it with you has been one of the greatest pleasures of this past year. Every interaction has been wonderful, I love every minute of it and I hope we’ll continue to interact more in the coming year.

I know you worry a lot about whether you’re a good RP partner, and while I’ve already said my piece on it to you, I’ll say it again. You’re a great RP partner. You’re in no way a shitty RP partner. You’re a joy to write with and I love interacting with you. Life has been hectic for you recently, but I hope it will calm down, so you don’t have to be so stressed and exhausted all the time. You’re a great person and you deserve the best. I hope we’ll continue to be friends and continue to interact through next year as well.

You’re the first person, and so far the only, to see Reiko’s core. You’ve seen a side of her no one else has experienced. Marii’s touched her heart, reached through the ice and rust and connected with her on a level not even she thought was possible anymore. If things continue the way they’ve been going, she might even end up telling Marii about her past, so I hope we’ll get to explore more and more of their relationship, sink the claws of love deeper into her heart. Maybe Marii can make her realize that being who she is isn’t as bad a thing as she thinks it is, maybe she could help her to accept that she’s not damaged or broken beyond repair. That she’s worth the love the youkai has given her. I want to see it, someone be able to reach her, to tell her it’s fine.

So I hope we’ll continue to write in the coming year, that we’ll continue to develop this tender, beautiful relationship between dark and light, because I’m excited to see where it goes. How deep it will get and how close they’ll become. The future is bright, and hopefully Marii can teach Reiko that as well.

@johnny-writes

Johnny, I know your retirement date is quickly approaching, and I’m sorry I haven’t fulfilled what I promised. I said I’d put priority on our threads, but I failed to deliver, and I apologize for that. I wish we could have had more threads, that I had met you sooner so we could have done more. It saddens me that soon, we won’t get to write together anymore. I’m going to miss you as an RP partner. I hope we can continue to be friends though, even if you’ll be leaving the RP community.

I know Mara and Tojava weren’t exactly planned characters for you. They were created from a meme and it all started from there. I like both of them, the concepts and tropes they’re meant to explore. I was looking forward to you writing their story, and though you got derailed during NaNoWriMo, I hope you’ll continue to work towards the completion of their tale.

The thread between Reiko and Mara was a very interesting one. I’m sorry my bitch of a muse made Mara cry, she didn’t deserve that at all and I still feel bad about it, but I enjoyed the thread nonetheless. Feels are fun, no matter what form they come in. The thread between Ivalinne and Kazuma was fun too, it’s a shame it won’t get to continue to the ending I had planned. It would have been a chance to show Ivalinne is more clever than most probably assume due to how most of her threads have gone. It’s a shame it will never come to pass.

Speaking of Ivalinne, thank you for reading her story! I appreciate your interest. When you told me you got hooked after the first two parts, I was overjoyed. I’m glad you liked it, and I hope you’ll continue to read Eliyah’s story as I write it.

You’re a good friend, a logical voice of reason, and I’m grateful for that. I know I’m not always the most reasonable person out there, but it really helps when there’s someone that can talk some sense into me. Thank you for your support this past year. I’ll miss having you around on the dash, sending asks in to my characters and I’ll miss seeing your characters around. But just because they aren’t around doesn’t mean that they don’t exist anymore. I look forward to seeing the story you tell with them, and I wish you all the luck with your plans for the future.

@geisthonoredferry

Koma, we’ve only met recently, but honestly you’re great. You’re so supportive of everyone, what with your little handwritten notes to people and all the positivity you spread, you’re a great influence on this community. This place needs lights like you, people that care about others and support them no matter what. You’re a blessing and I’m happy to call you my friend.

I hope in the coming year that we’ll be able to get some more interactions going. My motivation to write has been very low recently, and I’ve been overwhelmed by the sheer amount of drafts I have, but I’m not gonna give up! I’m going to reply to everything and keep moving forward.

Thank you for reading Ivalinne’s story, I’m glad you liked it and I hope that you’ll continue to read the things I put out and enjoy them all the same.

I really appreciate how much you care, how you check in on me to see how I’m doing, how you send positive little messages in the server and how you’re always doing your best to spread that cheer. You’re great, really. As both a writer and a friend. Though you should really stop lying to people and saying I’m cute. You’re the cute one here, not me.

@weaverstale / @draconianmyths

Kirbs, you’re great, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. You’re so caring and compassionate, always concerned for everyone else and supporting them with positivity. Thank you for your support. I do appreciate it, really, even if I believe myself unworthy, it does make my day better. Don’t ever stop being that way.

We’ve both been low on writing motivation lately, and that really sucks. I want to RP more with you. Orochi is very interesting, and my dumb thot of a muse can’t resist an attractive man. Or an attractive women, as Konoe proves. She really just can’t resist attractive people in general really. I hope going into the next year that we’ll be able to have more threads and interactions.

You’re a good friend and you’re easy to talk to. I know at times our...interests in conversation topics just don’t always match, I apologize for that. I am but a shy nervous bean, naive and innocent about such topics. Regardless, I do enjoy talking to you, and I hope we’ll continue to be friends in the future.

@magicaldreaming

Xana, I know we’ve only become mutuals recently, but I’ve really enjoyed speaking with you. I love hearing about your OCs, it’s fascinating. You’re easy to talk to and really chill, and I appreciate that. I hope we’ll continue to talk and be friends in the coming year.

As for RPs, you’re an amazing writer with some amazing muses. Krolia was one of the first I seen, through your threads with another blog I follow. Krolia immediately caught my eye, she’s very strange in a curious and interesting way. She’s an ancient being with a love for modern technology, idol music, and junk food, and it’s adorable.I really want to have a thread with her someday, once I manage to get my draft situation under control. I hope to see more of her, she’s really interesting.

But probably my favorite muse of yours currently is Celia. I read along with her threads in Redbellion, and honestly, they were my favorite. I love her journey throughout the event, going from an emotionless killing machine intent to cleanse all biological life from the universe, to realizing the true beauty of life, and realizing she had set in motion the destruction of an entire galaxy full of it. How she fought so desperately as the end of all was looming over her, how much she regretted what she had done, and how badly she wished to right the wrongs she committed. How she gave her all to save people. to protect them from the menace she had unleashed, and how she gave her life, her light, in order to save everyone. The woman that once sought to exterminate all life sacrificed her own to save what remained, and that is beautiful. I teared up when she started to fade into slumber and go dormant. You did an amazing job building up her character and her development was spectacular. I look forward to see where she goes from here, now that her outlook on the world has so drastically changed. With any luck, I’ll regain my motivation and be able to see that hope through with our thread!

All in all, you’re a great writer, never doubt your talent. It really shows a writer’s skill when they make you feel for and root for an evil character. That’s so much harder to accomplish than simply having the reader side with the hero. Any writer that can do that has my respect, just as you do.

@fragmentedsilhouette

Sage, I know you’re not really on tumblr much anymore, but I’m going to list you here anyways. You’re a good friend, calm, easy to talk to, and your company is enjoyable. I should really talk to you more.

I miss seeing Amaeris on the dash, she really was a great character. Well thought out and of questionable moral standing (Wait a second most of the characters I’ve spoken of here have been that way...Do I have a thing for that type?!) A shadow of her former self, literally. A deceased ruler of an ancient empire aiming to regain her former glory and rebuild her kingdom anew, so that she may reclaim what she had in life. You put a lot of thought into her and I wanted to see where she would go, if she’d ever be able to take back what was taken from her.

I hope one day we can write together again. The brief instances when we did were enjoyable. Maybe sometime next year? Who knows, but one can hope!

@moonternity

Lilli, we may have never gotten to RP on tumblr, and we might not have RPed all that much in general, but I think you deserve to be mentioned here as well.

When we first met two years ago, you hated my guts and told me straight out. I admired that honesty, since honesty is something I value. You gained my respect by being so honest about your feelings. I wanted to be friends with such an honest person, someone who wouldn’t lie to me and who’d tell me flat out if I fucked up. So I wanted to win you over, and as you know, I did, and that made me so happy.

I’m glad to be your friend. Happy that you want me around. It means a lot to me, truly. I enjoy your company, the fun we’ve had with the campaign, and even just talking to you. Thank you for being my friend, for giving me my first D&D experience, and for just being you.

---

And thank you to all my followers, both on the RP Side Blog where I actually do all of my writing and to all the followers here, whether you’ve just followed the wrong blog or not! Thank you for your support! I hope I can continue to write more and more in the years to come!

Happy New Year to you all!

#Follow Forever #Appreciation Post #Positivity #Mun Speak #Thank you everyone for supporting me and writing with me!#This post is ungodly long #Sorry #It's just the way I am #Happy New Year to everyone!#Here's to a good next year!

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azurefishnets · 5 years

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Trick or Treat Letter 2019

Dear Creator-type, Trick or Treat 2019 marks the anniversary of my first year doing writing exchanges and so I’m so excited to have you join me in this exchange! This one’s special to me and I hope you have a good time with my prompts. I am happy with art or writing or any other medium you want to try, and both tricks and treats are fair game in all prompts. All my prompts are listed in no particular order and I would love any of them, or, indeed, anything using these tags that doesn’t match my prompts. I just hope you find something that speaks to you!

Since it’s all about tricks and treats I leave the exploration of how you handle this up to you. I tried to make it very clear in my DNWs, but my squicks are: excessive blood and gratuitous depictions of bodily damage, things squirming under skin, anything to do with gore, saliva or pus. Please, I beg you. I don’t mind cerebral horror but I cannot deal with mutilation or gratuitous fluids at all. Thank you!

It’s worth nothing that I am far, far more interested, in general, in Gen fills and missing moments than I am in ship dynamics. Exceptions will be noted in the prompts themselves, but otherwise, I prefer erring on the side of friendly.

LIKES: fluff of any sort, found family, regular family realizing they get along better than previously thought, friends-to-lovers, platonic or romantic relationships where the participants are each very different but appreciated anyway, AUs, fandom crossovers or fusions, bonding, taking a level in badass, slice of life, angst to happy end, hurt/comfort or plain comfort, missing in-canon moments, bonding and emotional support/intimacy, physical intimacy, lingering touches, loyalty, banter, worldbuilding, sensory details, unusual interactions, puns and wordplay, unusual interactions between characters that canonically are close but there’s not a lot of exploration of why, women being people not props

ART LIKES: People doing stuff, not just posed things. Slice of life is great!

OKAY WITH: any tense, any amount of plot or none, out-of-the-ordinary story structures, heavy dialogue, no dialogue, character explorations, slice of life art

DNWS: non-con, dub-con, infidelity, gratuitous gore/saliva/pus, underage relationships, non-canon children, things squirming under skin

PROMPTS:

GHOST TRICK: PHANTOM DETECTIVE : Any

Preferred pairings, if necessary: Cabanela/Jowd (old timeline), Alma/Cabanela/Jowd (new timeline), Lynne/&Memry

I love a good mystery and Halloween is the perfect time of year to bust that out, especially with my favorite ghostly crew! Any combination of characters, any fun moment...A couple of ideas: Post-canon Alma’s daily weird life, Kamila and Amelie build a trick-or-treating machine with the Pigeon Man’s help; Sissel and Missile and Lovey-Dove are on the hunt for a mystery eluding the nation’s top detectives; Rindge, Lynne & Memry are attempting to impress their mentors; Bailey talks a walk in the park and is inspired to create a new dance by Mino and the Reckless Youth… the sky is the limit here!

LEGEND OF HEROES: TRAILS IN THE SKY, ZERO/AO NO KISEKI, TRAILS OF COLD STEEL

Cassius Bright (Sora no Kiseki)

Estelle Bright (Sora no Kiseki)

Joshua Bright (Sora no Kiseki)

Julia Schwarz (Sora no Kiseki) - Character

Kevin Graham (Sora no Kiseki)

Kloe Rinz | Klaudia von Auslese (Sora no Kiseki)

Mueller Vander (Sora no Kiseki)

Olivier Lenheim | Olivert Reise Arnor (Sora no Kiseki) - Character

Renne Hayworth (Sora no Kiseki)

Ries Argent (Sora no Kiseki)

Tita Russell (Sora no Kiseki)

Preferred pairings, if necessary: Olivier/Mueller, Ries/Kevin, mentioned Estelle/Joshua is OK

Found family is absolutely my favorite thing from these games and anything where the characters can show each other that is going to have my heart. So treat-wise, that’s where I’m at. But the other thing I like about these games is the absolute whiplash from adorable fluffiness to profound existential horror and I would be more than OK with something that explored that, maybe in conjunction with the multiple suggestions we’ve had of cyclical times, forced charisma, a civilization predating the Great Collapse… I don’t know, anything exploring Phantasma (carnivorous bookcases!) or the Tetracyclic Towers or the time on the Ark would be super cool.

Alex Dudley (LoH VII)

Campanella (LoF VII)

Elie MacDowell (LoH VII)

KeA (LoH VII)

Lloyd Bannings (LoH VII)

Randy Orlando (LoH VII)

Sergei Lou (LoH VII)

Tio Plato (LoH VII)

Zeit (LoH VII)

Explorations of KeA’s powers juxtaposed with her innocence are always cool, Campanella and leaning into how weird he is, is cool… As far as locations go, I’m fascinated with the Temple of Moon, the Tower of Stargaze, and the Ancient Battlefield. How are they linked with themselves, and with the rest of Zemuria? What’s the connection to Erebonia?

I don’t ship anyone with anyone in these games, except maybe Campanella with my fist in his face (that damn battle gave me gray hairs) but Lloyd dadding anyone and everyone who will let him gives me life. I love his weird connection to Alex Dudley, SUPER NERD, and I love tired chief Sergei uncling everyone Lloyd doesn’t dad at. Individually, I have a lot of feelings about Randy, full stop, and Tio, also full stop. Elie doesn’t get nearly the fleshing out as a character in the game that I would like. She’s kind of treated as a love interest and not much more and that’s annoying!

Alfin Reise Arnor (Sen no Kiseki)

Emma Millstein (Sen no Kiseki)

Fie Claussell (Sen no Kiseki)

Laura S. Arseid (Sen no Kiseki)

Mueller Vander (Sen no Kiseki)

Olivier Lenheim | Olivert Reise Arnor (Sen no Kiseki)

Celine (Sen no Kiseki)

Magical girl Alfin! But she worries, oh she worries and with good reason. I am VERY excited about CS3 coming out soon and also I just started a replay of CS1, so any kind of missing moment between our lovely Class VII girls or, of course and as always, Olivert/&Mueller would be lovely. Speculation and worldbuilding is also always good (and kind of a must in these games—so many questions yet unanswered…)

FANDOM DNWS: Crow. At least don’t treat him as the redeemable woobie if you see fit to include him.

PYRE : Any character

Preferred pairings, if necessary: Tariq/Volfred(/& Oralech is fine), Bertrude/Pamitha, Hedwyn/Fikani

Family family family, all the family all the time. I’m excited by all of the Scribes in the tags, so feel free to give me all the meta or headcanons you have. There’s a lot of cool creepy things you could do with alchemy or the Titan Stars or the Scribes’s original work to bring their Heralds to the Downside, however that might have happened. I love two (2) bog witches! Molten Milithe! Big Bertrude! How are they alike, how are they different, what does Bertrude think of her illustrious forebear, what might the old Scribes think of the new ones...

Fandom DNWs: Compulsory heterosexuality blech. No Bertrude/Volfred, no Jodariel/Ignarius, NO Tariq/Celeste

CHRONO TRIGGER : Any character

I have played this game so many, many times, and have never tired of it! I’d be excited to read anything about the thought processes of the Wise Men, especially as they realize they’re all working together again one last time, or maybe a treatise on Nu and why they’re so important, or anything set in Zeal or Choras, or Cyrus’s thoughts on realizing he’s haunting someplace he had no connection to in life. Fiona in her forest growing old and watching the being who has become her dearest friend finish her life’s dream. Schala and baby Magus in Zeal. Schala and ADULT Magus in Zeal. Both at once! Lucca, my forever favorite character no matter what the sequel did to her, being cool and smart and best practical sister to Chrono.

FINAL FANTASY VI : Any character

Anything exploring the War of the Magi and its far-reaching affects: did it have anything to do with the Phantom Train? Gau doesn’t get enough love and I’ve always had fondness for the idea of Relm taking him in hand and teaching him how to kid, while he teaches her how to wild child a little bit. Anything exploring how alien Terra finds the world and how alien the world finds her, especially in conjunction with the other weirdos: Mog, Maduin, Umaro, Gogo...

I can’t believe the Phantom Train is in these tags...I really, really want to see something using it...do Espers ride the Phantom Train as well? Do they get the same kind of afterlife humans do? Do they even want that?

FANDOM DNWS: Kefka/anyone, Terra/anyone, Gogo-as-Daryl, Kefka as redeemable

FINAL FANTASY X

Belgemine (FFX & X-2)

Yunalesca (FFX & X-2)

Wakka (FFX & X-2)

Tidus (FFX & X-2)

Rikku (FFX & X-2)

Kimahri Ronso (FFX & X-2)

Yuna (FFX & X-2)

Lulu (FFX & X-2)

Jecht (FFX & X-2)

Braska (FFX & X-2)

Auron (FFX & X-2)

Preferred pairings, if necessary: Auron/Braska/Jecht

If you haven’t gathered it yet, my favorite things are little explorations of settings and character that are left a mystery by canon and Spira is ripe for these considerations in every way. I especially like considerations of previous pilgrimages, explorations of both Zanarkands, a look at the divide between machina and fayth...anything like that. Watching Tidus grow and learn his sacrifice IS necessary while Yuna’s is NOT, etc... I love how X pulls the sacrificial bait and switch and maybe looking at that in context of Yunalesca might be fun, or maybe what the other guardians feel about that whole situation after the end...

FANDOM DNW: X-2, other supplementary materials to Final Fantasy X. Let the original game stand unadorned and unsullied, please.

LUNAR

Ghaleon (Lunar)

Nall (Lunar)

Althena (Lunar)

Nash Rumack (Lunar)

Killy | Kyle (Lunar)

Jessica Alkirk (Lunar)

Alex Noa (Lunar)

Mia Ausa (Lunar)

Luna Noa (Lunar)

Xenobia (Lunar)

Royce (Lunar)

Phacia (Lunar)

Preferred pairings, if necessary: Alex Noa/Luna Noa

I love the world and lore of Lunar and would just be extremely happy seeing something exploring the timeskip between the two chapters, the history beforehand, or game 1 missing moments. It’s worth noting that I think the Vile Tribe women get rather short shrift by the writing of the game; they’re treated as disposable at best and rather silly minions for the Magic Emperor at worst. If you’re gonna write them, let them be at their mysterious and interesting best.

Fandom DNWS: Lunar 2 spoilers (oblique mentions or clever use of future canon OK if it seems appropriate), Ghaleon/Luna, hypersexualized villainess trio

GOOD OMENS

Anathema Device

Madame Tracy

Agnes Nutter

All right, I know this is an outlier on this list but I have this crazy thought, hear me out: Maiden, mother, crone. Triple goddess. Fates, even though they’re all trying to subvert it in one way or the other. Separated by time, by purpose, by basic and fundamental thought-processes... but these ladies are linked and, I think, quite deliberately so. This is literally the only prompt I have in mind but it could go a thousand different ways.

FANDOM DNWS: Anathema/Tracy/Agnes. I mean, really.

Phew, you made it to the end (and so did I, I can’t believe it. Congrats!) If I have sparked your interest, even a little, this letter has done its job and I hope very much that it provides you with some thoughts to go on with. Thank you for thinking of me and I look forward to whatever you write!

#trick or treat letter 2019 #writing af

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loubuggins · 6 years

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Lou’s TITANS Review

S1 E1 - Titans

The Titans show was not as bad as the hideous trailer made it out to be, but then again, maybe it reached my standards because I had them so low. I will say that there were moments in this episode that I actually enjoyed. The acting was decent and the special effects were cool to see, but the script was only sub-par. Like most shows or movies that aim to be more “mature,” this episode depended for too much on violence instead of telling a compelling story. Which, in my opinion, they have, but it’s being drowned by the excessive gore and grimdark nature that the show creators are trying way too hard to enforce. I do see potential in the plot, I just hope they will execute it better as the series progresses. I also have many theories surrounding the show, which I go into below the cut.The pilot episode is always one of the worst in any series so it would not be fair to judge the whole series based off of one episode. Therefore, I will continue to keep an open mind in these coming weeks as we continue to dive into this new twist to the Titans’ story.

Please note that this review contains only my opinion and that I am open to other ideas, but I do ask that extreme fans of this show ignore my review, as I am critical of certain aspects of the show.

Read below the cut for my full review containing a summary of this episode!

The episode begins with the mysterious girl we come to know as Rachel Roth. She walks through a circus tent and ominous music playing in the background along with the odd sound of a joyful crowd in a seeming abandoned place gives away that this is a dream. She makes her way to the circus ring, where we see a flashback of the famous “Flying Graysons.” The family swing on the trapeze in what appears to be a very beautiful display, until the scene takes a sharp turn towards devastation. We see a young boy (Dick Grayson) scream in horror as he watches his parents fall to their deaths. There’s a lot of emotion in this scene and we see the dream come to an abrupt end as Rachel wakes up screaming and panicking.

Rachel’s mother runs in to comfort the young girl and if you listen closely, you’ll hear Rachel mention that she has had this dream before. Judging by her mother’s reaction, it’s clear she has confided in her mother before about this dream. It’s also revealed that Rachel can feel the boy’s pain and grief. It’s not an unusual statement to make about a dream, but this theme will continue to pop up throughout the show.

That morning, the mother wakes up to her alarm and we can tell by her appearance that she is exhausted and under a great deal of stress (Hm...I wonder why?) After taking her medicine she lifts her shirt up to reveal fresh scratch marks on her side. It’s never made clear how she received them, so to take a shot in the dark, I’d say they came from Rachel. When she enters the kitchen (wearing a nurse’s scrubs), we see Rachel quietly eating surgery Trix cereal and a cup of coffee. These may seem like minor details, but they bugged me greatly. Anyone who has seen the animated versions of Raven knows she’s a tea and waffles kind of girl.

Anyway, there is a tense conversation between mother and daughter that reveals the magical power that the girl has. It’s obvious that she can’t control it and it’s revealed that she doesn’t know what it really is or why she has this “darkness inside her.” Her mother seems to know something about Rachel’s powers, but refrains from sharing that information. It’s also worth noting that Rachel mentions being able to feel her mother’s emotions and using that empathy to know that she is lying.

After a dramatic scene between mother and daughter that makes Rachel look like Marvel’s Silver Banshee, we see the teenage girl hop on the bus headed for school. It’s fun to see one of my favorite characters in such a normal setting and I felt some compassion towards the poor girl. It’s clear that she has a good heart, but in typical Raven-fashion, she doesn’t know what to do about her more demonic side. Though she doesn’t appear aware of her demon heritage yet. I honestly would have liked to see more with her in school. We see her bullied on the bus, some random guy stands up for her, but brushes her off when she tries to thank him later in school. The whole thing seemed so insignificant, that they should have either cut the whole scene or added to it. This series seems to have an issue with priorities. If this season is meant to be about Raven, then let the focus be on Raven.

After the very short time in school, we are taken back to Rachel’s home where she is greeted by her mother and a random thug holding a gun to her mother’s head. The man makes Rachel’s mother reveal she is actually not Rachel’s mother, but before she can go further the man shots her point blank. The scene is unnecessarily graphic, as is most of the action scenes in this show. In a fit of rage, Rachel releases her soul-self and attacks the man. This all happens in a bit of a blur and while the CGI could be better, I didn’t find it as horrible as others did. After knocking the man unconscious, Rachel runs off and the focus shifts over to Detective Grayson.

I want to add that I have a theory as to the identity of this woman posing as Rachel’s mother. I believe it is Alice Williams (Roth), Raven’s aunt in the comics and older sister to Arella. In the comics, she is married and living a normal life with her family, but it's not like this show is hesitant to change a character’s backstory. Therefore, I think the woman is Alice Roth since her comic book counterpart is also very religious and she looks similar to Arella in appearance. My only other guess is that she was from Azarath, but I think my Aunt Alice theory makes more sense. It is sad though because I liked Aunt Alice.

Moving on to the bat boy, we see Grayson alone on a stakeout holding the file of some other thug who avoided charges against him for abusing his daughter. In a scene that looks like it came straight from Gabriel Picolo's Titans Zine, Dick looks over apprehensively at a briefcase sitting in his passenger seat. After some hesitation, he finally uses his thumb to unlock the case. Next, we see the thug with his other buddies in an alley (DC loves their alleys) as they begin the process of a drug deal. This is when Grayson, decked out in the Robin costume we have seen so much of, swoop in and fight them like some homicidal maniac. Nothing about this part is in character for the boy wonder. He brutally kills the criminals in an assortment of creative, yet painful ways. In the end, he goes to the man he was supposedly only after and beats him to death, but not before saying “If you ever touch your daughter again, I’ll find you.” This makes no sense once so ever and again, I blame the writers and the entire crew for not catching this mistake. It was very noticeable, and before the scene cuts again, we get the now famous line “F*** Batman.” After the horrendous fight (more like slaughter), we see Dick play the emo song that he so conveniently had on a record while cleaning the blood off one of his throwing R’s. We also get a nice long look at Brenton Thwaites shirtless, because the Robin fangirls need their fix I guess.

Back to Rachel, we get another ridiculous song as she takes a bus to Detriot. She finds her way to a soup kitchen and while she is there, a woman approaches her, offering to take her to a youth shelter. As Rachel is being led down a dark alleyway (seriously DC, again with the alley?), Her reflection (which I’m going to call her demon side) warns her not to follow. Trusting her instincts, Rachel runs away from the woman and attracts the attention of the police in order to escape.

As she waits in an interrogation room, Detective Grayson comes in to talk to her. She instantly recognizes him as the boy from her dream and without beating the bush, pleads for his help. I don’t criticize this though, because Raven was never one for tact. Grayson, however, is rightfully shaken up by her declaration but decides to investigate further. He makes the mistake of leaving the mystery girl alone and while he is gone, she is kidnapped by another cop.

Grayson follows them to an abandoned house, where he finds Rachel tied to a chair and about to have her heart cut out by the Acolyte. Now, this is where things start getting interesting. Before Grayson shows up, the Acolyte shares his villain monologue to Rachel, revealing that he intends to kill her in order to stop Trigon from coming, which is the exact opposite of what I thought his plan was going to be. It would be very different if the so-called “bad guys” of this show try to stop the end of the world from coming, rather than start it, and I honestly wouldn’t mind a refreshing twist to Raven’s story. However, in another surprise turn in events, Rachel loses control and her demon side takes over. Releasing her soul self, she performs a reverse exorcism on the Acolyte and kills him in a very disturbing and unpleasant way. I frankly don’t want to go into the details. By the time Grayson comes in, her soul self is back in her body and Rachel is panicking in her chair, claiming to have no memory of what had just taken place.

During all of this, on the other side of the world in Germany, we have our first look at Starfire (Anna Diop). The alien princess wakes up in a smashed car in the middle of the forest with a dead man beside her at the wheel. Dazed and confused she stumbles out of the car, only to have another vehicle racing down the road with men shooting in her direction. She takes off into the woods and after getting away from them, she somehow ends up at a gas station bathroom. She looks through her purse and it’s clear she has lost her memory, most likely from the accident (that probably was not much of an accident). Out of her purse, she pulls out a key that looks like the kind you would get for a locker or storage unit. The key also has a circular keychain with a picture of a cartoon frog. She also finds her passport, which says she’s an American citizen named Kory Anders. This leads me to believe she has been to America before, so it is possible she has met the boy wonder as well, but that is just my prediction. Not that this detail is of any importance, but the passport also says she is born on November 11th, 1991, which would make her 27 years old in the show. Just a fun fact.

The last item she pulls out is a hotel keycard, which leads her to the hotel the card belongs to (again, who knows how she arrived there). While she is there, a concierge seems to recognize her and Kory finds out she lives on the entire top floor of the hotel. When she arrives on her floor, she looks around to find any clues as to what happened to her before she lost her memory. All she finds is her apartment a mess, a half-packed suitcase, and a cell phone with a picture of her with her and some guy. Oh, and a beaten man tied up in her closet.

The first words out of his mouth were “Okay, don’t hurt me! I’ll tell you! They found her!” It isn’t clear at first who he is speaking about, but it is revealed later to be Rachel. As Starfire tries to retrace her steps, we start to get a taste of her character and what she has been up to up until now. Not a whole lot is made clear except that she was undercover and that she looking for Rachel. My theory is she was working for the JL in an undercover mission. She happened to stumble upon a much bigger scheme that has something to do with Rachel. She tried to do some digging but got too caught up in the crossfire. The crash was supposed to kill her, but she survived. Unfortunately, she lost her memory and doesn’t remember her original mission or the girl who changed it. Her hunt for Rachel will bring her to Robin, who she has already met before, but may not remember. Dick helps her and tries to recover her memories. Again, I think that her passport being American means she has met Dick before.

I have also heard that someone may have hired her to go undercover and find information about Rachel and that someone may have been Bruce. It would make some sense so I could get on board with that theory as well.

In the end, when moving to a store similar to Best Buy and it’s clear from the green animals playing on the TVs in the background that this is Gar’s (Ryan Potter) 3 seconds of fame, and let me tell you, I was not disappointed. The security guard follows a trail of video games down a hall where he finds a large, green tiger, shuffling through the games like how a cat plays with a toy mouse. As a lover of tigers and a major Beast Boy fan, I absolutely adored seeing him growl at the guard and take off with an Xbox game. Ryan says he picked Fallout 74, whatever that is (I’m not a gamer). Still, it was so much fun to watch and I thought Gar was the most in character so far, even if it was for only 3 seconds.

It’s obvious that this show will depend heavily on Ryan’s acting skills and Robin stans in order to stay relevant. Considering I’m only interested in the former, I’d give the series a thumbs down. However, I know from experience that any show’s pilot episode is usually its worst. Therefore, I plan to judge each episode by itself and will judge the season in the end. That said, I’d give this episode a 3 on a scale of 1 - 5, with 5 being the best. I say a 3, because while it gave an interesting storyline, but lacked in execution.

Rating: 3/5

#titans #live action titans #titans live action #dc universe #review #teen titans #beast boy #raven #robin #starfire #garfield logan #rachel roth #dick grayson #richard grayson #koriand'r #nightwing

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hibisha · 6 years

Text

Making Progress

Chapters: 1/1

Fandom: K (Anime)

Rating: Not Rated

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

Relationships: Mishakuji Yukari/Original Male Character(s)

Characters: Mishakuji Yukari, Original Characters

Additional Tags: Have bowl of diabetes and side of cringe!, Fluff, Romance

Summary:

Happy Birthday Pidgey! Here's Naokari~

(I'm wishing you here because I can't think of a proper summary.)

Mirrors: AO3

Rain poured down mercilessly outside, flashes lighting up the sky, casting a heavy atmosphere in the city. The sound of water hitting against the large glass window made it impossible to ignore the storm raging outside. The sudden downpour had caught people off guard - despite the warnings that had been issued before. Expecting a small drizzle, no one had seen the storm approach till it hit though the forecast made it clear the rain would only last only for the night, promising the civilians a 99% chance of a clear blue sky the next day.

Cold wind blew into the apartment complex through the open door leading to the balcony. Normally Naoki Hidaka would have absentmindedly made an attempt to go close it but the sight of Yukari Mishakuji curled up under a blanket, shivering slightly was too good to pass up. Heat provided from the fireplace was just enough to provide enough warmth that they could sit and not move from the couch.

In addition, the mood would only lead to a lot of cuddling and pressing closer to share warmth. Which they weren't doing right now.

Soon.

"You want me to do what tomorrow?" The skeptical eyebrow raise made Naoki severely reconsider his decision but he stood his ground. After all, the purple haired male wasn't exactly looking like he was against the idea - just disbelieving Naoki would even suggest such a thing; which were two completely different reactions.

Right?

"It's Misha's birthday tomorrow." Naoki explained gently, hoping a soothing voice would work on helping further his cause. "Youi can't get a day off from work and Kayochin is tired because of her pregnancy. I just want to take her out to the amusement park instead." Yukari - his Yukari - gave him a blank look. Naoki could practically hear the cogs working in his mind and prayed whatever he was pondering over would result in his favor. They had been living together for almost a year now but even so, Naoki still couldn't tell what the other man was thinking sometimes - most times.

All the time.

But being mysterious had always been part of Yukari's appeal so Naoki was alright with it.

For now.

"Fine." Came a reply as amber eyes went back to the book he was holding, "I'm not busy tomorrow so it won't be a bother I suppose." Naoki's face split in a wide grin.

"Oh, a family date - I'm so excited~" Throwing himself on the couch beside his curled up boyfriend, he pulled him close ignoring the sounds of protests coming from the shorter of the two. "I'll be spending the day with two of my favorite Mishas~" Yukari would have normally rebuked him and pulled away and walked off but another cold blast of air from outside made him move in closer so he was practically sitting in Naoki's lap. Naoki grinned, tightening his hold and Yukari all but buried himself in his arms.

Plan two, complete~

"Misha is so cute~"

"Shut up."

"Uncle Naoki!" A scream mixed with childish laughter cut through the silence as the man got out of his car and walked towards the front door. Naoki grinned as he scooped his six-year-old niece in his arms, proudly standing there in front of his sister in law. Kayo gave him a smile that could have lit up the whole world. Behind him, Yukari stood with his arms folded, awkwardly leaning against the car in the driveway.

"Misha don't be such a sourpuss~ at least come and hug Kayochin?" The little girl in his arms frowned.

"What?" Naoki started.

"Oh not you, I was talking to my Mi-"

"Yukari san." Shooting Naoki an annoyed look, said man languidly made his way over to the front door and gave Kayo the most awkward hug recorded in history. Naoki knew he shouldn't laugh but it was funny. It had been one year and still Yukari did not know how to act around Kayo, who was now almost complete with her full term pregnancy. Yukari seemed like he was always too scared to hug her too tightly as if he were scared he's accidentally break the child.

It was adorable.

"Thank you - both of you." Kayo said, looking every bit as grateful, "I told her you were going to take her out and she was so happy. She was singing loudly all morning."

"Yukari san, Yukari san!" The young girl held out a small chubby hand, "Look mommy helped me put on nail polish." Try as he might, Yukari could never hide how easily he sold his soul to children. The corner of his mouth twitched as he leaned in to examine the sparkly colour she had on.

"It looks very beautiful." The verdict was in. Misha giggled happily, squirming in Naoki's hold. Naoki out her down only to have her grab Yukari's jeans.

"I chose purple because then we would match." She declared proudly. There was no helping it now. Yukari's mouth gave one final twitch before he relented and settled for a small smile. Kayo was smirking and Naoki knew if he let out the laugh bubbling in his chest, Yukari would throw a hissy fit and walk off. Because his boyfriend was so mature. As Kayo listed off some final instructions and bid them farewell, Naoki watched as Yukari reached down and helped the girl jump over a series of puddles.

"Naoki are you listening to me?" Blinking out of his daze, he stated at the fond yet exasperated look on his sister in law's face. Sheepishly, he rubbed the back of his neck offering small apologies. Kayo let out a small huff though her eyes are twinkling merrily. Running her hand through her short black hair, she gave him a stern look albeit it was halfhearted.

"Well, just remember. Youi will be there to pick up Misha after work so make sure you all return home by then, alright?" Nodding, he offered a dazzling smile.

"I'll have us all home by then, I promise." Kayo smiled, reaching out to hug him. Surprised, he gently patted her back.

"Thank you." Pulling back Kayo nodded, "Youi tried very hard to get a day off but something happened at work and they're all understaffed." Naoki held up a hand.

"Say no more~" Slowly walking backwards, he waved. "Just take care of yourself alright? Harui san said she'll be here in ten minutes." Finally reaching the car, he offered one final wave and slid into the driver's seat. " Alright~ ready to-" The rest of his words does in his mouth as he realized Yukari was not sitting up front beside him but was sitting in the back. Misha smiled brightly at him from the passenger's seat.

"Yukari san said I could sit here!" Catching Yukari's eye in the rear view mirror, he snorted.

"I bet he did. Yukari san is very lazy and just wanted to sleep in the back. Didn't you~?" As a response, Yukari stretched out his legs in the back and rolled over so his back was facing them. Raising his hand, he waved.

"Drive – wake me up when we get there." Naoki rolled his eyes, pulling the car out of the driveway. The young girl next to him peered around the back of her seat curiously. Naoki could tell she was itching to bother him – after all she was a Hidaka and wasn't it Yukari himself who said it was like it was a Hidaka's sacred duty to annoy him? Grinning, he mentally told his niece to go for it. After all, if she bothered Yukari enough in the back, he would come sit up front.

Next to Naoki.

Snickering to himself, he made no move to stop the girl when she finally gave in to temptation and scrambled into the back seat. Yukari, who had probably expected this, sat up with a sigh. Helping her put on a seat belt, he shot Naoki a dirty look who tried his hardest to keep a straight face.

"Yukari san, Yukari san! Let's play a game." And honestly, Naoki couldn't get over how adorable his little niece was. Dark brown hair, just a few shades darker than his own, pulled into two pony tails dressed in Kayo's own unique brand of style. Large brown eyes shining with happiness at the thought of spending her birthday with her uncle and his 'friend'. Of course Misha had no idea about his and Yukari's relationship.

Which means I can't kiss my Misha in front of her. Or call him Misha since it'll confuse her.

Pouting, he tapped the steering wheel with his fingers as the car pulled to a stop in front of a traffic light, too engrossed in his own thoughts to pay attention to what was going on in the back seat. When he finally came back to reality, he felt a poke in his side. Startled, he turned to see Misha holding out a pencil, giggling as she poked him again. Beside her, his best friend was smirking.

"Oi," Yukari drawled out, amber eyes alight with mischief. "The light has been green for about two minutes. Do you plan on staying here the whole day?" Naoki smirked back at him.

"I just wanted to have picnic right here~" Laughing, he made a turn on the next signal before pulling the car into the gentle stop. "Oh, we're here!" Yukari glanced out of the window inquisitively. Beside him, Misha was bouncing up and down in her seat from excitement. It warmed up Naoki's heart and he had to remember his promise to Youichi that he wouldn't spoil her too much this time round.

"Pizza N' Fun Palace?" The look on his lover's face said all he thought about the place really. Naoki got out of the car, holding the door open for his niece and gave Yukari a sly grin.

"It's Misha's favorite place~" The young girl had already scrambled out of the car and was skipping around in the parking lot. Yukari got out, looking like a down right grump. At the entrance, a person in a huge mouse costume greeted them and ushered them inside and Naoki wondered how many foot massages he owed Yukari. Probably not more than six – right?

It was when they asked them all to pose for a happy family photo, the number increased to ten. And when the mouse offered to hug the "wife and child", Naoki knew he was screwed. And not the good kind either. In fact, he probably wouldn't be getting that kind of screwed till he properly made up to his fuming baby of a boyfriend. Not that he was complaining – the sight of Yukari having to wear a headband with mouse ears was simply too cute to words. And Misha had somehow managed to convince him not to rip the thing off and break it into two. Add her wearing her own headband and Naoki was well on his way to dying happy.

Two hours of arcade games and jumping castles later, Naoki finally managed to drag the little girl to their table and order food. By the time they had pizza in front of them, Naoki was sure Yukari had made up at least seventeen murder plots in his head.

The young girl slid into the spot next to Yukari and held his hand throughout their time there. Naoki, who had been wanting to do the same thing himself all day, showed his slight displeasure by giving Yukari a secret pouting look all throughout their casual conversation which Yukari blatantly ignored in favor of wiping Misha's face with a napkin every time she got sauce around her mouth. Leaning his chin on one hand, Naoki smiled to himself.

"What are you smiling about like a retard?"

"Just thinking that Misha would make a lovely mother." The reaction was instantaneous. Yukari's face flushed red, and he opened his mouth to snap at him only to be cut off by a tiny voice.

"I agree; Yukari san would make a lovely mommy." Misha, having finished her pizza slice, smiled up at the man brightly and Naoki ducked his head to keep himself from laughing himself to death as Yukari's face progressively got more and more scarlet at each passing second. Muttering something that he was sure was only said in low tones so the child couldn't hear, Yukari excused himself to got to the bathroom, no doubt to splash water on his overheated face.

Reaching out, Naoki ruffled his niece's hair.

"Good job kid, keep up the good work." Misha, looked a bit puzzled before smiling anyways. Looking at Naoki curiously, she tilted her head.

"Is Yukari san a very close friend of Uncle Naoki's?" she inquired. Naoki grinned.

"Very close."

"And daddy?" Naoki coughed.

"Not the same standing but yes."

"So daddy is fond of him. And mum likes him too." Naoki nodded, wondering if the child had caught on to their relationship. Maybe that's why she was hinting at Naoki that the family liked Yukari. Mentally debating whether or not asking Yukari to marry him on account of 'my niece gave us her blessing.' was a good idea, he failed to see Yukari come back and stand over him, eyebrow raised slightly.

"You've been zoning out all day." The exasperated smile on his face made Naoki's heart skip several beats at one. Jesus, calm down, you're 31 not 13, he chastised himself, Stop letting Misha get to you like this now.

Though he knew he was fooling himself. Every time Yukari smiled at him, Naoki would get a shock that his face didn't fall off from the effort or crack because Yukari didn't smile – hadn't smiled for more than 13 years – not at him.

A sudden ache erupted in his chest but he pushed it down firmly.

"Naoki are you even listening to me?" Snapping out of his reverie – once more – Naoki grinned.

"Sorry, Misha's dazzling beauty blindsided me." Yukari raised him eyebrow.

"You know what else could blind side you? Two black eyes."

"Don't be so grumpy Misha. Com'on, lets hold han-"

"Yukari san, can we hold hands?" Yukari started looking at the little girl holding out her hand, giving him a warm smile. Looking at Naoki with a look that clearly promised full payback later, he nodded stiffly. The little girl chattered endless on about her classmates and teachers as Naoki trailed behind the two of them, grinning.

"- then Narumi pushed me into the mud. How rude of him isn't it?" Misha huffed out. Naoki raised his eyebrow.

Wait.

Misha didn't sound so snotty usually. And he knew for a fact that the little girl had completely destroyed Narumi later. Yukari, unaware of all these proceedings, nodded.

"Yes, simply terrible." Misha smiled.

"I forgave him of course." Naoki blinked again. Liar.

Why is she lying?

As they made their way back to the car, Yukari held the door open for his boyfriend. Naoki smirked as he passed, wanting nothing more than to grope his ass in broad daylight. He didn't but that was only because he didn't want to have an earful when he returned home to Youichi – if he returned home that is. Because Yukari would surely slaughter him. Unlocking the car doors, he slid in behind the wheel and waited for Yukari to get in beside him.

Which he didn't.

Instead, he clambered into the back seat – or rather he was dragged there. Misha refused to let go of his hand. Rolling his eyes, he pulled the car in reverse and backed out of the overcrowded parking lot.

"So home?" The tiny girl shook her head vehemently.

"Not yet, not yet! Yukari san promised to teach me how to make flower crowns." Naoki raised an eyebrow.

"When?" Brown eyes glared at him, purple hair framing the face.

"When you were busy daydreaming while driving."

"Can I learn how to-"

"No."

"We've been making flower crowns for an hour now." Yukari complained, flopping back on the grass, "Doesn't she have enough of them by now?" Naoki flopped down next to him, grinning.

"Of course not Misha, we need more flower crowns. One can never have enough flower crowns." Dodging away from the heart hearted attempt at a punch from his partner, he made a face. "Although I'll admit I don't want to make anymore." Yukari raised his eyebrow inquisitively and Naoki leaned in.

"I want to go home and kiss my Misha. And some other not so tame things~" The words were directly whispered into the other's ears and Naoki had the satisfaction of watching Yukari's face light up red like it had caught on fire. The next punch that came his way was neither halfhearted nor playful and he only managed to roll away in time.

"Yukari san! I'm done!"

"Oh thank God." Said man got to his feet and looked at the small pile of crowns lying in the grass next to a beaming child. "So why make so many?"

"They're for a special occasion. I'll explain when we all go home." Yukari glanced at Naoki to see if he knew what the girl was talking about but seeing the clueless look on his face showed that they were in same boat.

"Alright, I guess it's time to go back." Loading all of the crowns in the backseat and managing to convince Misha to sit with them in the back, Naoki hummed happily, finally able to openly stare at Yukari – from the corner of his eye that is.

"Eyes on the road Romeo."

Busted.

Pouting, Naoki reverted his eyes back in front of him, away from the man filing his nails next to him. Misha seemed to have finally settled down and was slowly observing her own handicrafts and Yukari was steadfastly ignoring him.

Ah, so his earlier comment wasn't forgotten~

Naoki couldn't help but let out smug laugh.

"Your laugh annoys me shut up."

"Mi-Yukari is so cute~"

"SHUT UP!"

"Right, so this is it." Setting down the box of crowns, Naoki gave his niece a grin. "Ready to tell us what these are for?" Misha got off her seat and took one out of the box. Walking over to Yukari, who was sprawled on the couch, exhausted, she placed one on his head. Puzzled, Yukari sat up as the young girl took his hands in his own.

"Its for our marriage ceremony!"

Silence.

Naoki stared at his niece blankly.

"Say what?" he finally managed to voice out, his mind going back a thousand seconds per second to see at what moment exactly did little Misha develop a fucking crush on his fucking boyfriend. Yukari seemed to have given up on life and had thrown himself back on the couch, face covered by a cushion. Misha hadn't let go of his hands and Naoki had to mentally stop himself from being increasingly jealous of his own niece.

"I will marry Yukari san. He'll make the prettiest wife and I will take care of him."

A snort was heard and Naoki cast the cushion covered face a dirty look before coughing.

"Misha that so cute but your dad-"

"Daddy will not say anything because I heard him tell Mommy he wouldn't mind if Yukari san married into the family already." The sudden stiffness of the body on the couch was all indications Naoki needed to know this talk was going south fast.

"I'm sure he didn't mean you Misha. Let's go have some ice cream in the kitchen and talk about it there okay?" Away from Misha.

Generally speaking, Naoki would have married Yukari within the week if he could but there had been so many issues the two of them had to work through that Naoki hadn't dare propose the idea. For now he had been content of simply living together and basking in Yukari's presence beside him. To think his fucking twin was hinting they should get married-

Well, it was safe to assume Yukari was probably cherry red under the cushion. One could tell because even his neck that was visible was scarlet. But even that didn't calm Naoki's heart beat as a sudden idea began to formulate in his mind.

"Misha can't marry Yukari!" he said, eyes never leaving the figure, "Because there's someone else who loves Yukari very very much and wants to marry him instead." That got a reaction out of the man. Sitting up straight, Yukari gave him a blank look. Giving him a tentative smile, Naoki reverted his gaze to his nice and crouched down in front of the perplexed looking child.

"It's someone I think Yukari loves too and they have been through a lot of bad times. But if Mi-Yukari was to say no, I'm sure that person would understand too because he doesn't want to rush it." Not daring to look at Yukari in the face, he smiled at Misha. "So don't steal the love of his life okay?" Misha looked at the ground for a moment as if deep in thought before looking at him in the eye.

"Will he take care of Yukari san?" she asked, her face serious. Naoki nodded.

"Very much."

"Okay, then he has my permission to make Yukari san his wife." Nodding to herself, Misha gave Naoki another stern look. "But he should never break Yukari san's heart or I'll come and steal him away." Yukari had gone painfully quiet and Naoki didn't think he would be able to look at him without an answer.

"Does Yukari san want to marry him?" Naoki choked.

"I don-"

"Maybe." Naoki's head snapped up. Yukari was blatantly staring at the clock lying on the mantel, ignoring his eyes and Naoki could feel all the air suddenly rush out of the room. Mouth dry, he barely managed to get his words across.

"What did you just-"

"Then can I be the bridesmaid?" Naoki gave his niece a blank look.

Where the fuck is Youi?

As if hearing his silent plea, the doorbell rang and in a matter of minutes, Naoki and Yukari were alone in the giant apartment. The air was slowly suffocating Naoki and the way Yukari was fidgeting in his seat, it was obvious he wasn't the only one being silently crushed under all the sudden pressure.

"Did you mean it?" Naoki blinked and didn't know how to respond. The inner turmoil of emotions was making it hard to think; a constant battle between saying yes or backtracking out of it with a joke. Yukari looked at him in the eyes as he repeated the question a bit louder.

"Did you mean that Naoki?"

Yes or no. The weight was over bearing and the fear of rejection was crippling. Maybe – Yukari had said maybe. While it was better than a no, it wasn't a yes and the uncertainty was eating him alive.

"It's Misha, of course he'd want to marry me." was ringing loud in his ears along with chants of "But he left you before." Yukari waited for a few minutes before sighing, his shoulders dropping down.

In relief? Defeat? What it is Misha please help me understand I don't know what you want.

"If you meant it –" Naoki sucked in a deep breath as Yukari mumbled, "I wouldn't- I wouldn't say no."

I'll say yes.

All the air that had been trapped inside his lungs came rushing out in one go almost making him dizzy. Almost tackling his boyfriend into the couch, he was hit with the sudden thought he hadn't kissed him all day. Determined to make up for it, he pressed soft kisses wherever he could reach him mostly his neck and face. Which was red.

Oh right.

Cupping his face in his hands, Naoki pressed his forehead against his. "Misha I love you." Even though it had seemed impossible, Yukari face seemed to flush even more and he pushed a hand in his face.

"Yes you've told me be-" Grabbing Yukari's hand, he pulled him close grinning. Sitting with his boyfriend partially in his lap, Naoki brushed a few strands of hair away from Yukari's face before leaning in to kiss him again. The protests and sputtering of the other fell on deaf ears as his arms wrapped tighter around his body, making sure chances of escape were few to none. Pulling away he smiled softly.

"Hey Misha, will you marry me?"

Extra:

"No."

"You don't have a choice shut up."

#Naokari #Fics #K anime #Yukari Mishakuji

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juniperpublishers-gjaa · 5 years

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Smiles and Tears in Prehistoric Art- Juniper Publishers

Summary

From a graphic point of view, smiles are prior to tears. While the smiles are documented in human graffiti from the Paleolithic period (Middle Magdalenian), tears are documented much later, in animals of post paleolithic periods. These data help us to make a few reflections about our way of seeing art, which may be influenced by our culture, too serious, for a few graphs that are not so much.

Keywords: Smile; Laughter; Paleolithic art; Evolution

The smile of Bourdois

The figure reproduced below is a cave engraving of the Bourdois shelter, located in the Vienne, France. They will agree with me that at first glance it does not seem to have anything of particular. It is a small human face endowed, of course, with a broad smile [1]. But, if we consider that the spelling in question is 15,000 years old, the thing changes, and the impression that the smile produces increases. Indeed, we are facing one of the first smiles in the History of Art. The smile of Bourdois is not, far from it, as famous as that of the Mona Lisa, and yet its transcendence is much greater. Even if only because a smile from 15,000 years ago contains many more puzzles than one of just four centuries. And if not, look closely at the face, is it possible to look at this smiling face for a long time without smiling? This reaction, almost instinctive, says a lot about the human species, about who we are and why we are here (Figure 1).

This enigmatic fascination, which all attentive observers share, is caused by the intimacy of a gesture of different and partly undefined nuances. And is that every smile always harbors a suspicion: the shadow of dissimulation. You can see in it the trace of deceit, submission or fear. But, although the shadow of a doubt looms over its inner light, the smile is, above all, an expression of pleasure and happiness. For a smile manages to stay true to itself and its own mystery. That is to say, what really hides is, neither more nor less, than the secret of happiness.

On the other hand, the fascinating attraction that a smile exerts can be understood as a power of seduction that, Freud did not hesitate to describe as erotic [2]. And although the genius of psychoanalysis was too often carried away by interpretations of a sexual nature, it is quite possible that this time it was not misguided. Almost all the specialists in gestural mimicry agree in affirming that the smile has an erotic function. Even scholars of human behavior have highlighted the erotic relationship of the smile in current primitive peoples [3]. This relationship may be very old, perhaps prehistoric. In paleolithic art we have four examples in which the smile is associated with anthropomorphic figures with upright sex [4]. These spellings seem to reflect a relationship between happiness and sexual satisfaction.

The female silhouettes of Angles-sur-l’Anglin

A few meters from the smiling face of Bourdois we have, in the same frieze, four sculpted female silhouettes, in a position that today we would not hesitate to describe as erotic. So much so, that Guthrie has compared these paleolithic profiles with the images of the Playboy. The comparison with current pornography deserves to be criticized at least in two essential points. The first is that porn is characterized by its seriousness, it is, in the words of Braudillard, deadly serious [5]. Which means that there has been a process of verification of the erotic in the pornographic, or, to put it another way, the vital and joyful component of the erotic has been eliminated, turning it into something mechanical and artificial, reduced to an act highly stereotyped And secondly, the pornographic in Western culture excludes the sacred, something that does not happen for example in the East.

However, as can be seen in three of the graphs reproduced below, the silhouettes of Angles-sur-l’Anglin, have an inescapable erotic tone. The pose of naked bodies has a disconcerting effect. It is almost impossible not to see in them the bodies of contemporary models or sex symbols. What does not lead us to ask the following question, what we see is conditioned by our pornographic aesthetics or does it have some biological basis? Look at the sinuous lines that frame the vulvas and delineate the hips and part of the legs. These parts of the female body are erotic in virtually all human cultures [6]. The reason why aesthetics uses these forms has a biological basis, that is, a “practical” sense. It is no coincidence that the beauty ideals of a tribe of Trobians and Westerners are so similar [7]. Nor that, apparently, these ideals, based on body proportions, have not changed over time. Well, they respond to a purpose, which is to stimulate reproduction, because according to certain studies, female hips and legs without visual indicators of women’s fertility. Furthermore, not only the silhouettes of Angles-sur-l’Anglin have that disconcertingly modern character; but there are other similar examples in the caves of Le Gabillou and La Magdeleine. The position of these female bodies, reminiscent of Goya’s Nude Maja, is eminently erotic. For example, the position of the arm behind the head in the bas-reliefs of La Magdeleine, is an expression of enjoyment that is also observed in sexual scenes from Roman times. In a painting of the House of the Restaurant of Pompeii (1st century), A woman bends her arm in this way while practicing sex with a man. The scene, of obvious interpretation in the Roman case, is not in the prehistoric. What is evoked in Paleolithic art is not the act itself, but something more complex whose final meaning escapes us. But what is interesting here is to point out that artists or paleolithic artists are the creators of a visual eroticism that is surely different from what we understand today. It was probably a happy and perhaps sacred eroticism, but the result of the complex world of seduction, the mystery of attraction, of creation and of life (Figure 2).

Prehistoric eroticism, and its Paleolithic graphic expression, have their roots in human evolution. Specifically, in the development of our particular mode of sexual reproduction. About two million years ago, our hominid relatives began a strategy of reproduction that we could describe as optimistic, since it consisted, mainly, of having sex a more or less constant pleasure. This fact was crucial in the evolution of our species. Our reproductive success (it is estimated that we are around 7,000 million people in the world) is unparalleled in the history of placental mammals. If we are a prolific species par excellence it is thanks to the intrinsic quality of our sex to provide us with pleasure at any time of the year. The other animal species either do not experience as much pleasure or are subject to short periods of heat. Human sexuality does not depend, like that of other mammals, on the olfactory stimuli and the hormonal chemistry of pheromones; but predominantly visual stimuli, based mainly on physical features and body proportions [7]. This explains, to a certain extent, the eroticism of artistic expressions. Today the pornographic market has reduced the erotic to its minimal expression. The most visited websites on the internet are, by far, pornographic. We are a species that we bet on the pleasure of reproduction. And natural selection has favored this optimistic strategy.

The Tears

From a graphic point of view, smiles are prior to tears. The tears that appear on the faces of the Tassili cows, studied by Le Quellec [8], seem to have a symbolic meaning. We have to go back to the Egyptian period (2000 BC) to identify the tears, not in a human, but in a cow again, which apparently cries because they are going to sacrifice their bull in a relief of a sarcophagus of Deir el- Bahari Are human feelings attributed or is it that these feelings are not exclusively human? Are historical cultures more pessimistic than prehistoric ones? About four million years ago, the Mesopotamian civilization left us a magnificent example of the existential pessimism that has developed in our culture in a way surreptitious as a principle of unquestionable reality. Since then, pessimism has slowly imposed itself, making us believe that the human species is sinful by nature. That’s what researchers think of the human imagination as Beltrán [9]. And it is that the real, in our world, is the serious thing, that is, the drama of life. In other words, more Freudian, our principle of reality is occupied by the drama of the serious. This is an automatism that operates mechanically in our culture without hardly questioning.

However, is optimism defining us as a species? The instinct of reproduction is the means by which the organic announces the joy of existence. Therefore, what we call optimism is the force that animates existence and drives reproduction. We can appreciate the laughter in the animals, the song of the birds, the tail of the dog, the purring of the cats. Is the joy of existence the engine of evolution? From this point of view, the upright position of the sapiens animals, allows the face to be seen, which is fundamental in the non-verbal communication of the smile. And besides, the bipedal position exposes the sexual organs, “shames” that all human cultures cover in some way. Shame is one of the fundamental axes of laughter. This feeling has played an important role in the development of human humor, in, for example, the phallic exhibitions.

To know more about Journal of Archaeology and Anthropology: https://juniperpublishers.com/gjaa/index.php

To know more about our website click on Open access publishers: Juniper Publishers

#Juniper Publishers #Juniper Publishers Group #Archaeology #Anthropology #Social Sciences

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roadswim-collective · 7 years

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THE MANY WORLDS OF JOANNA MILKWEED- FOREWORD

by Daniel Brogan

Joanna Milkweed, sculptor, producer, co-creator of Dan the Can Man, died last year at the age of 104 at her home near Wenvoe, surrounded to the end by a faint air of mystery.

A photograph from her last public appearance, at the BAFTA children’s awards ceremony, in London, in the year 1998, shows Joanna sitting at an angle to her colleagues.

At the Grosvenor, over a landscape of napkins and wine bottles in silhouette, Milkweed’s husband, the producer Bill Kenzie, along with animator Clayton Morgan, looks toward the lit stage. Around the shadowy table, lesser colleagues incline the same way. Their smiles are fixed, they look anxious, expectant.

Joanna is looking elsewhere. Her chair is turned so that she is at a right angle to the stage, to the spotlight, to the hallowed space where the announcements and the speeches are made. One hand hangs limp between her knees, the other holds a champagne flute. Her gaze is unreadable. There is a darkness either in or around her eyes that reminds one of cigarette burns.

Born in the Rhondda Valley in 1961 and educated at Saint Martins College, Joanna Milkweed was always looking elsewhere. In all but the most posed of shots, her eyes consistently fail to meet the camera. In this picture, taken in August 1998, the tendency reaches its geometrical conclusion. She is at 90 degrees to the ceremony.

Minutes after the shot was snapped Joanna and her colleagues won their second award of the night. Dan the Can Manhad already won best animation, Bill accepting the trophy from the writer Michael Rosen, and now Zum4 Entertainment – formed by Joanna, Bill, and Clayton – was about to be named Best New Independent Production Company.

Less than a year later Milkweed divorced Kenzie and went on to sell him all the rights to their creation, the perennially popular delivery man Dan, his yellow truck, and his whole motorway corridor world.

Milkweed never made another programme. Her withdrawal from public life was abrupt and total. She went away and never came back.

Joanna had been active in film and television design for 20 years at this point. From the start, she was determined to work in animation and soon made her name. Her gift as an artist appeared to combine two different elements, the intricacy and detailed beauty of her model work on the one hand, on the other a certain looseness or wildness of the imagination. Milkweed’s best work contained equal parts of each tendency, working together, eccentric visions sculpted into perfect scale models.

Joanna Milkweed designed and built a glorious variety of miniature worlds for dozens of different projects through the 80s and into the 90s. A lot of her work was done in fantasy and sci fi settings – a library in a university on an icy moon of Saturn, the interior of a smashed up block of flats in a post-apocalyptic city, a war torn village in the Dark Ages. Her eye for detail brought all these strange scenes and more to vivid life.

Milkweed also worked in children’s television, creating memorable sets for popular series like Mr Tweedyman,Samson and Gwynn, and The Shimmers.

“Joanna always brought something extra,” recalls Miles Brierley, who hired Milkweed to work on his long-runningAquarius 3000 series (1986 – 1993) and again on the one-off special Tarvin’s Future (1994).

“No matter what the project was, you knew that if you got Joanna Milkweed in you were going to get something really very special.

“Joanna’s stuff was just so imaginative, and so beautiful, she actually took what we were doing to another level. Certainly in the early days of Aquarius, before we’d found our voice, Joanna’s models were the best reason to watch the damn show!”

In 1995, while pregnant with her first child, Joanna conceived the initial spark that led to the creation of Dan, the vending machine resupply driver whose adventures still entertain children to this day.

Ex-husband Bill Kenzie, though often derided, has written movingly about this moment in his posthumously published memoir Just the Delivery Man:

“Joanna was suddenly hungry, after feeling sick all day, so now I tried to tempt her with different food possibilities. It’s quite difficult to predict what will tempt the appetite of a pregnant woman. I offered soups and salads, biscuits and chocolate, various sundries from the back of the cupboard. All in vain.

“Finally, in desperation rather than in hope, I blurted the word: McDonald’s? And Joanna rewarded me with an ironic grin, as was her way. I went to hunt for the car keys.

“We were still living in Newport at this point, much to our distress. The new house in Roath was ready for us to move into, had been since May. We’d hoped to be in and settled well before now, with Joanna’s bump so big and round. Moving house is stressful, as is having a baby. Trying to do the two at the same time though? An absolute hellscape. Which may seem an overstatement but to those who have never had to try it, I’d simply say – try it!

“Being pregnant brought out the anxious, worrying side of Joanna. It didn’t help that it was such a difficult pregnancy. I remember thinking, well, thanks a lot Mother Nature. Thanks for making this a lot more difficult than it strictly had to be. And of course it was Joanna who bore the brunt. I felt so sorry for her, we had so many ups and downs. My own temperament is much calmer, more simply optimistic.

“If you ask most of my friends and colleagues to describe me in a few brief words, you’d probably find a lot of variations on Laid back, including So laid back it’s a wonder he doesn’t fall flat on his back. It’s true, I’m naturally relaxed almost to a fault. People start to find it annoying, my lack of urgency. I know Joanna found it annoying. I guess we were at different poles emotionally, as in so much else.

“I suppose I felt at some level that my influence would help her chill out a little. Looking back, it seemed to have the opposite effect, giving Joanna a target for her fears, her irritation, and her many frustrations. I don’t think either of us was very easy to live with, we were still young and were both quite extreme personalities at that point. But different extremes, Joanna and I – opposite poles. We had our moments though, which I’ll never forget, and would never want to forget. They made us who we are.

“While eating her Quarterpounder Meal in the car, her first solid food since the bout of uncontrollable vomiting on Wednesday afternoon, we looked across the car park at the panorama beyond, the M4 motorway snaking its way through Newport, heading west through a pink sky to the sunset. And I remember, will never forget, Joanna putting my hand on her bump to feel our child moving in there, nearly ready to meet us, and listening at the same time as she told me about this idea she’d had, it had just come to her now, the first stirrings.

“It was an idea for a show, a show of her very own. About all this – and she pointed with her Coke cup at the world outside our car. Joanna’s words, as I felt the baby kick, I’ll never forget, all those lights just coming on, all starting to shine, all those tiny lives. Her own eyes were shining, and I told her so. That was the moment Dan the Can Man was conceived. Three weeks later our beautiful baby Dylan was born.

“As I say, we had our moments.”

Joanna had never originated a show, had always worked for hire on other people’s projects. Now she worked with Bill and their university friend Clayton to create a pilot episode, on the strength of which the BBC commissioned a series of six 10-minute episodes, aimed at a 4-8 age group. The first series aired in March 1996 and was an immediate hit.

Parents began calling the BBC to ask if there were plans to release Dan the Can Man on video or DVD. Something about Joanna’s creation – and it was Joanna’s really, before it was anyone else’s – made it hugely popular right from the off, and well beyond its intended age group.

A hastily commissioned second series, of 12-episodes, was an even bigger hit. The series, like Teletubbies and Rastamouse before it, seemed designed to tempt cultural commentators. There were countless columns and thinkpieces in the broadsheets, while the tabloids kept up the hunt for innuendo well beyond the point of reason.

It was assumed that Dan the Can Man, despite the good-natured simplicity of the stories themselves, said something…or represented something…perhaps reflected something. No-one seemed quite sure but trying to define it – that was the thing that kept the columnists and the panellists going.

A piece in The Guardian called it the first post-Fordist kids’ show. The Times called it Trumpton on a zero hours contract. A writer for the Daily Mail bemoaned the show’s strenuous attempts to tick every last diversity box. Art critic Brian Sewell called it a drearily faithful depiction of our current atomisation and malaise, while on the same Radio 4 panel show, comedian and activist Mark Thomas asserted that it’s like Brecht or something – and we’re all Dan the Can Man now.

Joanna Milkweed, quoted in 1997: “Ultimately it’s about a little man called Dan who goes round filling up vending machines with soft drinks, and all his little adventures on the way.”

Licensing deals were signed. There was merchandise, the figures first, then the bedsheets and backpacks. Zum4 Entertainment was formed. Money began to flow. At the centre of the whirlwind stood the central trio, Jo and Bill and Clay. They each had an area of expertise: Joanna made the sets, the models and the puppets, Clay animated them, and Bill sold the finished product.

They were a team, a family. They had trust and they respected each other. Then Joanna walked away. She left behind her company, her lucrative creation, her career in TV, her life in London, and her husband. She was 41.

The two children, Dylan and Hazel, Joanna kept with her.

Milkweed bought a house near Cardiff and they lived there together, just the three of them, until the children grew up and left home. Joanna never remarried, never – as far as we can tell – embarked on another romantic relationship.

Bill Kenzie remarried twice, was divorced twice, and died at the age of 66, having turned Zum4 into an internationally successful company, while paragliding in Crete.

After Milkweed’s return to Wales in 1999 all invitations to collaborate on projects were refused, offers of work were ignored. Old acquaintances and friendships were left behind, until no-one seemed to have any idea what had become of her.

Miles Brierley regards the loss of Joanna’s gifts to the world of film and TV as “a bloody tragedy.

“I would have loved to work with Joanna again, she was quite, quite unique. I did pester her for some years with projects, inviting her to come to the studios to look at what we were doing.

“At first she just replied with polite refusals but after about three years of me periodically pestering her with offers of work, she began replying in the form of these funny postcards she’d made herself, some cryptic picture on the front. Usually stuff like derelict phone boxes with weeds growing through the little windows. Old pubs rotting away.

“Once there was a broken television set, old tube style, smashed screen, in the middle of a messy bit of muddy wood somewhere.

“I thought, yes, well, okay. I get the picture. It’s a no, isn’t it?”

For the next 63 years, until her death last year and the opening of her house to the public earlier this year, Joanna succeeded in staying beneath the margin of the world’s notice.

The one exception to Milkweed’s absence from the public stage occurred in the year 2000, when papers carried the report of a 42 year old woman arrested for breaking and entering a storage unit in Stroud. Joanna Milkweed admitted robbing the unit repeatedly over two months, emptying it of almost all its contents before a dog-walker spotted her and called the police.

Milkweed told officers that everything she had taken – which comprised all the sets, vehicles, clothes, and puppets she’d ever made for Dan the Can Man – belonged to her. The owners of the unit, Zum4 Entertainment Worldwide, declined to press charges and Joanna kept the models. They were obsolete anyway, production of the show having moved from stop motion animation to 3D computer design, in order to keep up with international demand. Bill Kenzie told a reporter, “All she had to do was ask.”

All this is a matter of public record. These are the bare facts in the case of Joanna Milkweed, as they would appear to any casual researcher. The questions they raise are many. The most obvious are: Why did Milkweed abandon her success, her creation, and her marriage in 1999?Was it for the same or at least a related set of reasons? Why did she turn her back so completely on her profession and the friends she’d made? How or why did a previously prolific artist with an astonishing work rate subdue her creative energy for the rest of her life?What did she do with her imagination, with her her hands, for the latter 63 years of her life?

In brief, whatever happened to Joanna Milkweed?

These questions are not easily answered. A woman addicted to privacy makes a difficult subject for a biographer, and I can’t pretend to be suited for such a tricky task. My role is that of an editor, or perhaps an assembler would be more accurate. What I have assembled are simply fragments of Joanna. The writer who eventually takes on the challenge of the supremely elusive Milkweed has my respect and my sympathy. I look forward to reading the finished product.

This book aims to answer just one question: what did Joanna do with all the models she stole from the lock up?

#roadswimcollective #effluent lagoon #the many worlds of joanna milkweed #foreword #daniel brogan #bill kenzie #clayton morgan #the guardian #brian sewell #dan the can man #zum4 entertainment #miles brierley #children's television #BAFTA #teletubbes #http://roadswim-collective.tumblr.com/

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recentanimenews · 4 years

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Tower of God - Crunchyroll Spring 2020 Anime Spotlight

It's finally almost time for the Spring 2020 anime season, which means the Tower of God anime is nearly upon us! The hotly-anticipated adaptation is coming as part of the Crunchyroll Spring 2020 Lineup, and we have all the info you need to prepare for the Crunchyroll Original production.

Official website

Twitter

Instagram

Navigation

Launch Info

Official Trailers

Synopsis

Characters and Cast

Staff

Additional Info

Launch Info

Launch Time: April 1

Territories: North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, and CIS

Show Page (coming soon!)

Official Trailers

youtube

Synopsis

Reach the top, and everything will be yours.

At the top of the tower exists everything in this world, and all of it can be yours.

You can become a god.

This is the story of the beginning and the end of Rachel, the girl who climbed the tower so she could see the stars, and Bam, the boy who needed nothing but her.

Characters and Cast

Bam - Taichi Ichikawa (Seiji Maki in Bloom into You)

Comments from Taichi Ichikawa:

I'm Ichikawa Taichi, the voice of Bam. The Bam I play is a pure and honest boy who is single-mindedly devoted to Rachel. I hope people watch over the powerless Bam as he grows over the course of the tower's tests with help from his friends. I hope fans of the original work and everyone else enjoys the series. The series gets more and more exciting with each episode, so be sure to watch until the end!

Rachel - Saori Hayami (Sachi in Sword Art Online)

Comments from Saori Hayami:

Though she appears cute at first glance, she carries all kinds of things inside her. Sometimes you may think she's showing kindness, but she's actually revealing her own desires.

It was fun watching various characters speak with each other during recording. In addition to watching the actions of protagonist Bam's side, I hope people also pay close attention to Rachel's actions. Enjoy the series.

Headon - Hochu Otsuka (Jiraiya in Naruto)

Comments from Hochu Otsuka:

At first, it felt like I'd been suddenly thrown into the work without really understanding his world view.

Headon's actions were a mystery, his goals were a mystery, and even his appearance was a mystery.

And the slight terror that played about his lips was truly mystifying.

However, for whatever reason, performing him was fun.

I love his type of character.

Maybe having to grope around amidst the mysteries was a good thing.

For those who watch the anime, I hope you discover and enjoy the subtle mood that is a blend of joy and bewilderment.

Anaak Jahad - Akira Sekine (Princess in Princess Principal)

Bio:

The girl who wields "The Green April," one of the legendary "13 Month Series" weapons only bestowed upon the princesses by King Jahad.

Her lizard-like green skin and tail set her apart, and she is extremely physically capable.

Comments from Akira Sekine:

I am Sekine Akira, and I play Anaak Jahad!

Despite being strong, she also has a weak side,

and though she's fierce, she also has a cute single-minded side to her.

I remember thinking she was a very charming girl when I read the original work!

How will she grow throughout the numerous encounters she has in the tower?

I hope everyone enjoys it!

Endorsi Jahad - Rie Suegara (Tomie in Junji Ito Collection)

Bio:

One of the princesses of Jahad. Climbs the tower as a Regular.

Though she's an attractive and fashionable girl, she is also proud and strong-willed.

Of the Regulars climbing the tower together, she is exceptionally strong.

Comments from Rie Suegara:

The character Endorsi Jahad is a touch sadistic (laugh). She loves to fan the flames… But maybe that's part of her plan. She's also a clever character who possesses a lot of delicacy. Due to how she was pushed around by fate, she was also forced to become stronger. That's the kind of girl she is.

Yuri Jahad - Mariko Honda (Katsumi Nakase in STEINS;GATE)

Bio:

One of the princesses of Jahad.

Possessing both top-class strength and experience, she has an extensive combat record as a "High Ranker," one who has reached the highest level of the tower.

She expresses an interest in the "Irregular" Bam who is not bound by the rules of the tower, and when Bam is forced into taking a harsh test immediately upon entering the tower, she lends him the legendary weapon "The Black March" granted to her by King Jahad.

Comments from Mariko Honda:

I’m Honda Mariko, and I play the role of Yuri Jahad. The Yuri I play is a carefree and (physically) strong girl. She acts according to her instincts and is short-tempered and quick to anger. Which causes a lot of trouble for the character Evan who looks after her. Thank you for your work... Evan (laugh). The best part of Tower of God is all the characters bursting with uniqueness! Enjoy the show!

Evan Endroch - Kazuyuki Okitsu (Serpico in Berserk)

Bio:

Evan is a Navigator serving the Jahad royal family. He is very familiar with the construction of the tower. Okitsu Kazuyuki's Comments

Evan is a Navigator of the Tower at the mercy of a willful princess.

Comments from Kazuyuki Okitsu:

Though his face is fairly gallant and masculine, he's actually very short. And his large backpack seems to contain something extraordinary... What a mysterious man!  The TV anime "Tower of God!!"  Expect great things from the youngsters facing the Tower of God!  Huh? Is Evan a youngster??? Huh? Some of these aren't human?? In any case, don't miss it!!

Hatz - Toshinari Fukamachi (Shūhei Yonezuka in Ao-chan Can't Study!)

Bio:

Growing up under a father who taught him the warrior code, Hatz is a taciturn and cool dual-wielding warrior.

Fighting with swords that fly bother higher and lower than anyone else, among the Regulars with whom he climbs the tower, he boasts top-class fighting abilities.

Comments by Toshinari Fukamachi:

Hatz seems cool at first, but he conceals a quiet heat inside of him.

The boyish awkwardness he sometimes shows and the way he eventually gives in and aids his companions is heartwarming.

Pay close attention to his conviction and stylish sword-based fighting style as he continues to seek strength!

Khun Aguero Agnes - Nobuhiko Okamoto (Bakugo in MHA, Rin Okumura in Blue Exorcist)

Bio:

Originally from the Khun family, one of the "10 Families." With strong combat capabilities, he is a strategist whose family's internal struggle for power tempered his strategic abilities and sharp mind.

He is the first friend Bam made inside the tower and one of the people he trusts most.

Comments from Nobuhiko Okamoto:

He's smart. He's a strategist. It's a fun role that involves figuring out how to incorporate as much of his true meaning as possible while aloofly striking poses. I'd like to tell those who are about to watch the series to try to feel it rather than use their heads to comprehend it.

Rak Wraithraiser - Kenta Miyake (All Might in My Hero Academia)

Bio:

A proud warrior bursting with confidence.

Having formed a team with Bam and Khun immediately upon meeting them, they are bound by a powerful bond.

Normally he is hot-headed and violent, but he also cares for his friends.

Nicknamed "gator."

Has a habit of calling others "___ turtle."

Comments from Kenta Miyake:

In this series, I'm providing the voice for a big, strong, and loud giant gator named Rak. In "Tower of God," mysteries lead to more mysteries, and there are many mysteries and backgrounds that compel the characters to climb the tower, but the character Rak that I play is unrelated to any mysteries. He's a what-you-see-is-what-you-get, arrogant, powerful, loud, and sometimes cute character. Turtles, enjoy the show!

Shibisu - Takuya Eguchi (Julius Euclius in Re:ZERO)

Bio:

From the moment he enters the tower, he teams up with Anaak and Hatz to climb the tower as a "Regular."

Though his combat abilities are weak, he's an intellectual with keen powers of observation and is even smart enough to see through fellow intellectual Khun's strategy. Shibisu is a warm-hearted and genuine young man who always cares for his friends.

Comments from Takuya Eguchi:

The character Shibisu I play is frivolous and feels a bit underwhelming, but as he became cooler and cooler through his interactions with his companions, I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. I hope other also pay close attention to his growth!

Staff

Original Story by

SIU

Director

Takashi Sano

Co-Director

Hirokazu Hanai

Series Composition

Erika Yoshida

Character Design

Masashi Kudoh

Miho Tanino

Prop Design

Kenji Masuda

Creature Design

Masahiko Suzuki

BG Art Director

Keiichiro Shimizu

Color Setting

Satoshi Hashimoto

3DCG Director

Ryouta Takano

Special Effects Supervisor

Kumiko Taniguchi

Sound Director

Takayuki Yamaguchi

Editor

Kazuhiro Nii

Sound Effects

Yasuyuki Konno

Yui Ando

Music

Kevin Penkin

Music Producer

Hiromitsu Iijima

Music Production

IRMA LA DOUCE

Animation Production

Telecom Animation Film

Produced By

Tower of God Animation Partners

Additional Info

Tower of God started off as a popular comic on the WEBTOON platform, written and illustrated by SIU. Here's a message from the author that was released shortly after the anime was announced.

Hello,

I am SIU, author and creator of “Tower of God.” When I was young, I imagined that in 2020, I would be able to wear shoes that would give me the ability to fly.

It's currently 2020, and I may not have these flight-enabling shoes, but the webtoon I worked on for over 10 years on Naver, “Tower of God,” was finally given the chance to become a TV animation. I never would have imagined this to happen.

I hope this animation gives everyone more joy than those flying shoes. I hope everyone enjoys this thrilling and exciting adventure with the few selected turtles from “Tower.”

Thank you.

By: [email protected]

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