#also I was thinking of king of thieves for jazz but like... what is this ygo?

[any-n-everything]

I'VE WANTED TO DO THIS EVER SINCE I SAW THIS PANEL AND ONLY REMEMBERED NOW

Next Gen 13 Crowns

Demon King Sullivan Iruma

Lord of Flames, Asmodeus Alice

Creative Queen (or Lord of Fun?), Valac Clara

King of Games, Shax Lied

Ambitious King, Sabnock Sabro

Head of Lust, Ix Elizabetta

Serpent Lord, Andro M. Jazz

Lord of Knowledge, Allocer Schneider

Head of Sloth, Agares Picero

Lord of Four Winds, Gaap Goemon

Snow Queen, Crocell Kerori

Beast King, Caim Camui

Lord of Mysteries, Purson Soi

(The Thirteen Crowns Drinking Parties are Legendary)

BONUS:

Chief of Demon Border Patrol, Azazel Ameri

(maybe one day it will be Demon King and his Thirteen Crowns...)

[laresearchette]

Wednesday, January 01, 2025 Canadian TV Listings (Times Eastern)

WHERE CAN I FIND THOSE PREMIERES? HOMICIDE SQUAD NEW ORLEANS (A&E Canada) 10:00pm

WHAT IS NOT PREMIERING IN CANADA TONIGHT?: 2024 ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY (ABC Feed)

NEW TO AMAZON PRIME CANADA/CBC GEM/CRAVE TV/DISNEY + STAR/NETFLIX CANADA:

AMAZON PRIME CANADA THE 13TH CHAIR ACT OF VENGEANCE AFRICAN JIM THE AMBULANCE AMITYVILLE ANTI-TRUST THE APPLE ARENA AT FIRST SIGHT AUTUMN IN NEW YORK AVENGING FORCE BAD INFLUENCE BEAT STREET THE BELIEVERS BELLE OF THE YUKON THE BELLY OF AN ARCHITECT BENNY & JOON THE BERLIN AFFAIR BILLION DOLLAR BRAIN BOBBIE JO AND THE OUTLAW BOLERO BULL DURHAM CANADIAN BACON CAST A LONG SHADOW CAST A GIANT SHADOW CATTLE ANNIE AND LITTLE BRITCHES THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE CLUB FED THE COCA-COLA KID CODE 46 A COLD WIND IN AUGUST COLD PURSUIT COP CRIMEWAVE THE CUTTING EDGE THE CUTTING EDGE: CHASING THE DREAM THE CUTTING EDGE: GOING FOR THE GOLD CUTTING EDGE 4: FIRE AND ICE DANGEROUS GAME DEADLY INTENT DEJA VU THE DEFIANT ONES THE DELINQUENTS DILLINGER DOOMED TO DIE THE DUNGEONMASTER ELECTRA GLIDE IN BLUE EUREKA EVERYTHING, EVERYTHING THE EXPLOSIVE GENERATION EYE OF THE TIGER FAITH, LOVE & PANCAKES THE FINAL ALLIANCE THE FINAL OPTION FLYING DEVILS FOR THOSE WHO THINK YOUNG FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL FROM HOLLYWOOD TO DEADWOOD GAS PUMP GIRLS THE GOLDEN SEAL THE GREAT DIVIDE GUN DUEL IN DURANGO A GUY THING THE HAPPY THIEVES HEARTBREAKERS THE HEAVENLY KID HELL DRIVERS THE HUNTING PARTY IN THE HEAT: A MATTER OF JUSTICE IN THE HEAT: GROW OLD ALONG WITH ME IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT: BY DUTY BOUND IN THE HEAT: GIVE ME YOUR LIFE IN THE HEAT: WHO WAS GELI BENDL? INGEBRIGTSEN BORN TO RUN [EXCLUSIVE CONTENT] INSIDE THE MAFIA INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU INVASION OF THE STAR CREATURES JACK HIGGINS’ A PRAYER FOR THE DYING THE JANUARY MAN KANSAS CITY CONFIDENTIAL THE KILLER ELITE LADY CHATTERLEY’S LOVER LARS AND THE REAL GIRL LIES MY BABYSITTER TOLD THE LONGSHOT LOVE OR MONEY? LOVE FIELD MADAME X MAN OF LA MANCHA THE MAN WHO LOVED WOMEN MARCH OF THE WOODEN SOLDIERS MARIANNE MARY MAGDALENE MATEWAN MIDWAY MILLION DOLLAR RIP OFF MOONLIGHT AND VALENTINO MOONSTRUCK MR. WONG, DETECTIVE MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND MYSTIC PIZZA THE NAKED CAGE NEW YEAR’S EVIL NICHOLAS NICKLEBY NIGHTMARE PAGEANT MOMS THE O.C. (Seasons 1-4) THE OCTAGON OPERATION BIKINI OUR WINNING SEASON OVERBOARD THE PACKAGE PARIS BLUES PATHS OF GLORY PATTY HEARST THE PEOPLE THAT TIME FORGOT PIONEER WOMAN PLAYMOBIL: THE MOVIE THE POPE OF GREENWICH VILLAGE PRANCER THE PRICE PUMPKIN PWHL: Ottawa vs Toronto RETURN TO ME RIDE OUT FOR REVENGE RIOT ON SUNSET STRIP ROBBERS’ ROOSTVALERIE ROMEO IS BLEEDING SABAKA SAVED! THE SECRET OF SANTA VITTORIA THE SECRET OF THE ICE CAVE SERENITY SHE-DEVIL SHOUT AT THE DEVIL SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION SMALL CHANGE SNOW WHITE SOLARBABIES SOME LIKE IT HOT SOMETHING WILD SPACE PROBE TAURUS THE SPEEDWAY MURDERS STOOGEMANIA SUITS (Seasons 1-9) THE SUN IS ALSO A STAR SURPRISED BY OXFORD TEEN WITCH TEEN SPIRIT THE THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR THREE BAD SISTERS THUNDERBOLT TOM SAWYER TRUE CONFESSIONS UNDERTOW THE UNHOLY NIGHT UNTAMED HEART VALDEZ IS COMING THE VALIANT VALMONT WALKING TARGET WARRIORS FROM HELL WE’LL NEVER HAVE PARIS WEDDING DAZE WEST SIDE STORY THE WHALES OF AUGUST WHISPERS WHO’LL STOP THE RAIN? WICKER PARK PHANTOM KILLER THE WOMAN IN RED WUTHERING HEIGHTS YENTL

CBC GEM CATASTROPHE (Season 3) THE HOLIDAY JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE JUSTIFIED (Season 1 and 2) SNOWPIERCER

CRAVE TV VOYAGERS UNSUNG HERO

DISNEY + STAR VOW OF SILENCE: THE ASSASSINATION OF ANNIE MAE (all episodes)

NETFLIX CANADA DON’T DIE: THE MAN WHO WANTS TO LIVE FOREVER THE EQUALIZER 2 HALLOWEEN ENDS THE INTERVIEW THE LOVE SCAM (IT) MAID IN MANHATTAN MISSING YOU (GB) MY GIRL NEIGHBORS NUMER 24 (NO) SCHITT’S CREEK (Seasons 1-3) THE SHALLOWS TAR TICKET TO PARADISE THE WEDDING RINGER

NHL HOCKEY (SN) 6:00pm: Devils vs. Kings

NBA BASKETBALL (SN1) 7:30pm: Jazz vs. Knicks (TSN4/TSN5) 7:30pm: Nets vs. Raptors (TSN5) 10:00pm: 76ers vs. Kings

THE REPAIR SHOP (Makeful) 8:00pm (SEASON PREMIERE): Lucia restores a cracked 19th-century painting that was a casualty of war; Steven sews up a fix for a tiny stitching machine at the workbench; Brian restores some cool '50s audio technology.

MORIMOTO'S SUSHI MASTER (Flavour Network) 9:00pm (SERIES PREMIERE): Eight competing chefs meet judges Masaharu Morimoto, Dakota Weiss and J. Kenji López-Alt; they'll need to prove their mastery of fundamental sushi skills in the first challenge, because one chef will be eliminated.

GIRLS GONE WILD: THE UNTOLD STORY (Lifetime Canada) 9:00pm (SERIES PREMIERE): Joe Francis seizes an opportunity to build a new kind of porn company; it quickly becomes a runaway hit and makes Francis a celebrity, but behind the success are questionable business practices and lasting impacts for the women involved.

100 DAY DREAM HOME (Home Network) 9:00pm (SERIES PREMIERE): Soon-to-be newlyweds are ready to make their first big joint decision about building a home; Brian and Mika help the couple decide on their dream home's location, size and style, promising to deliver the finished home in just 100 days.

EAT, SLAY, LOVE (Slice) 9:00pm (SERIES PREMIERE): Nivea invites friends Eva Marcille, Tammy Rivera and London Hughes on the girls' trip of a lifetime to Vietnam; the ladies arrive in Hanoi ready to eat, slay and love, but cultures clash and an unexpected blowup jeopardizes the entire trip.

THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES (CTV Sci-Fi) 9:00pm (SERIES PREMIERE): Helen Grace and her children move to their ancestral home, Spiderwick; Jared Grace, 15, discovers a boggart and realizes that magical creatures are real; Aunt Lucinda implores him to find the pages of her father's field guide to magical creatures.

SUPERMAN & LOIS (CTV) 10:00pm (SEASON PREMIERE): Superman becomes locked in a brutal battle with Luthor's monster; Lois and the boys race against time to save General Lane.

BARMAGEDDON (Slice) 10:15pm (SERIES PREMIERE): Blake Shelton vs. Kane Brown: Country superstars Blake Shelton and Kane Brown realize that everybody "Sharts."

[marie1-kersaint]

i came 4 coffee ☕️ and was JAZZED 🆙 by Mr Smith and Marge then worshipped in your beautiful sanctuary and sang loud PRAISES to GOD

THANKS 4THE ℹ️

Larry Smith 🏤 🏤 https://www.facebook.com/share/v/YDayCkcKpK6XGBjA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

keywestumchurch.org

The LORD bless thee✝��keep thee:

https://kjbo.org/Numbers-6-24/

25The LORD make his face shine upon thee✝️B gracious unto thee: 26The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee✝️give thee peace. ✌️

Jesus saith unto him, 

I am the way, the truth, 

and the life: 

no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

https://kjbo.org/John-14-6/

✝️💝u 

sent from my iPhone 

“

In today’s world, tolerance is king. And there’s no greater tolerance issue than homosexuality. Activists have changed the way mainstream society—politics, business, education, the media—thinks about homosexuality. They’ve also changed the way many churches and denominations think about it.


Where do you draw the line? More to the point, where does the Bible draw the line? In Homosexuality and the Bible, John MacArthur challenges popular views about how Christians should interact with homosexuals—and what God thinks of homosexuality.

Sent from my iPhone

Galatians 4:16 So have I become your enemy by telling you the truth?

I Homosexuality Is Safe Spiritually

1 Corinthians 6:9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, 10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.

“Effeminate”= “Malakos”è “A person who allows themselves to be sexually abused contrary to nature” (Zodhiates) [It could refer to male prostitutes, or transvestite—"Drag Queens”]

“Homosexuals”= “Arsenokoitai”è “A man who lies in bed with another male” (Zodhiates) [Literally: “Man who beds with another Man”]

THE BIBLE ON HOMOSEXUALITY

(cf. Genesis 19 and the story of Sodom’s doom)

Leviticus 18:22 'You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female; it is an abomination.

Leviticus 20:13 'If there is a man who lies with a male as those who lie with a woman, both of them have committed a detestable act; they shall surely be put to death. Their bloodguiltiness is upon them.

Deuteronomy 22:5 "A woman shall not wear man's clothing, nor shall a man put on a woman's clothing; for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God.

Deuteronomy 23:1 "No one who is emasculated or has his male organ cut off shall enter the assembly of the LORD.

Isaiah 3:9 The look on their faces testifies against them; they parade their sin like Sodom; they do not hide it. Woe to them! They have brought disaster upon themselves.

Romans 1:26 For this reason God gave them over to degrading passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural,27 and in the same way also the men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire toward one another, men with men committing indecent acts and receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error.

28 And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper, 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice; they are gossips, 30 slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, 31 without understanding, untrustworthy, unloving, unmerciful; 32 and although they know the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them.

1 Timothy 1:8 But we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully, 9 knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine,

1 Corinthians 6:9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, 10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

Jude 1:7 just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them, since they in the same way as these indulged in gross immorality and went after strange flesh, are exhibited as an example in undergoing the punishment of eternal fire.

Trangenderism is another sin that is rampant in our nation. Mainstream culture has tried to divorce biological sex from gender identity, and have even come up with over a hundred possible gender identities as a result. But non-binary gender indentity is not science based.”

Look 👀 🏤 🙏🏤 https://www.facebook.com/share/mqPZYNtwVsmErqTY/?mibextid=WC7FNe Galatians 4:16 So have I become your enemy by telling you the truth?

“THIS POST IS AGAINST OUR COMMUNITY”

TOXIC, bully UNKIND JUDGEMENTAL hypocrite

Am i therefore become your🤮enemy, because i tell U the🆘⚠️⛔️TRUTH❗️⁉️

https://kjbo.org/Galatians-4-16/

Look listen 👂 👀 🏤 🙏🏤

💃🕺💐🤸🏿GTY.ORG🤸‍♂️THANKS🤸‍♀️ 🙏 4 ⚒️ 🧰 ⚒️

800-55-GRACE

letters@gty.org

https://gab.com/Demosthenes100964outlookcom/posts/111641741922626049

file:///var/tmp/com.apple.messages/com.apple.MobileSMS/LinkedFiles/58011124-5449-4955-B43E-720B78242713/unknown.jpg

[celiabowens]

underrated SFF books (YA and Adult)

So uhm, since I keep seeing the same books on my dash all the time (and I like them too, just...there’s more! to read!) here’s a list of less popular SFF books, divided into YA and Adult. I’ve tried to mention when there is lgbt rep and the trigger warnings. Also, books written by poc will be in bold. Please point out any typo or mistake or if I’ve forgotten specific rep/tw mentions.

All of these are books that I’ve read and enjoyed (by enjoyed I mean anything from 3 stars and above), but if anyone wants to add titles please feel free to do so!!

YA:

The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi: beautifully written, fairytale-like story rich in mythology (inspired by several Hindu myths. There’s a full list on goodreads indicated by the author herself). Roshani’s prose is gorgeous.

A Crown of Wishes by Roshani Chokshi: it’s a companion novel to The Star-Touched Queen, but both can be read as a standalone. I liked this one more than its companion and I particularly loved how the romance was written (slow burn, but specifically, the author really highlights the mutual respect between the characters, we love to see it).

The Young Elites by Marie Lu: fantasy trilogy set in a world inspired by Renaissance Italy, in which children who survived a mysterious and deadly illness ended up with strange and dangerous powers. Secret societies and a female villain!

The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu: historical fantasy following Mozart’s sister, Nannerl, a girl as talented as her brother, but afraid of being forgotten because of the lack of opportunities she has to be seen and heard. Nuanced sibling relationship, no romance.  

The Midnight Lie by Marie Rutkoski: fantasy f/f romance! Both a coming of age story set in a society with a rigid class system and a slow burn f/f romance with a lot of banter. TW: abuse.

The Weight of Feathers by Anna-Marie McLemore: magical realism. The book follows two families of traveling performers that have been locked in a feud for over a generation. This was the author’s debut and I remember getting an arc of it and being impressed by both the prose and how the forbidden love trope was handled.

When the Moon was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore: another magical realism novel. One of the main characters is a trans boy and the book focuses on issues of racism and gender. One of my favorite YA!

Strange Grace by Tessa Gratton: fantasy romance set in a village that periodically sacrifices a young man in order to keep a deal with the devil that ensures their prosperity. Also, polyamorous and non-binary rep.

The Rise of Kyoshi by F.C. Yee: first book in a duology following avatar Kyoshi’s life. It explores the political and cultural aspect of the Earth Kingdom and Kyoshi’s past. Bisexual rep.

Descendant of the Crane by Joan He: sort of a murder mystery fantasy, as the main character finds herself suddenly thrust into power once her father has been murdered. The story has a slow build up to a last part full of twists and machinations and it features lots of court intrigue. Warning: the ending is quite open and afaik there isn’t a sequel planned as of now.

The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones: a quite unique take on zombies influenced by Welsh mythology (it’s super cool). The novel follows Ryn and their siblings, as they try to get by after their parents’ death by working as gravediggers. Only well, the dead don’t always stay dead. The characters read a bit younger than they are imo. There is chronic pain rep.

The Magnolia Sword by Sherry Thomas: retelling of the original ballad of Mulan. The book follows Mulan, who’s trained her whole life to win a duel for a priceless heirloom, as she joins the army. There’s a lot of political and historical details, which I really appreciated. Do not go into it expecting a fun adventure though. The descriptions of war aren’t extremely graphic, but be aware of the fact that most of the book is set during a conflict.

The Candle and The Flame by Nafiza Azad: standalone fantasy set in a city on the Silk Road! It’s a quite slow-paced tale about love, family and politics. It has lush descriptions of landscapes and cultures (and FOOD, there are some really great descriptions of food). It’s a very atmospheric book and while I struggled a bit with the pace I’d still recommend it.

Forest of a Thousand Lanters by Julie C. Dao: sort of an East Asian inspired retelling of Snow White, but following the Evil Queen before she became Snow White’s stepmother. I honestly haven’t read its sequel (which should focus on Snow White herself), but I do think this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone too.

The Queen’s Thief series by Megan Whalen Turner: it’s hard to point out exactly what this series is about because it has evolved so much with time. It starts out as classic quest/adventure series with The Thief (which may seem a classic and simple book, but is actually full of foreshadowing and has a really clever set up), but develops into a complex and intriguing political fantasy in The Queen of Attolia and The King of Attolia (and then goes back to the quest theme in book 5, Thick as Thieves).

Adult:

A Fist of Permutations in Lightning and Wildflowers by Alyssa Wong: I’m cheating with this one because it’s technically a short story but I love Alyssa Wong’s stories so I’m putting it here anyway. It can be read for free and you should just...read it.

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang: grimdark fantasy (TW: abuse, self harm, rape, drug abuse), inspired by Chinese history. It’s adult, but follows younger MCs and the unique blend of different historical periods/inspirations makes it extremely interesting. The characters are extremely fucked up in the best possible way, plus the use of shamanism is awesome. Please make sure you check all the TW before reading.

The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang: a Japanese-inspired militaristic fantasy, with elemental magic, a badass housewife dealing with her past and hiding a sword in her kitchen’s floor. It has interesting and nuanced family dynamics and a great reflection on propaganda and the use of narratives.

Empire of Sand by Tasha Suri: first book in an epic fantasy duology inspired by Mughal India (TW: abuse, slavery). I really liked both Empire of Sand and its companion and I find them pretty underrated. Both books have great slow burn romance (with a focus on mutual trust and respect) and focus on culture, religion, self acceptance and politics.

Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia: a fantasy bildungsroman set in Mexico during the Jazz age. It’s a great approach to adult SFF as it follows a young girl on a life changing adventure. It features Mayan mythology and a god slowly becoming human (this trope is everything!).

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden: a coming of age story inspired by Russian folklore. The trilogy as a whole has one of the best arcs I’ve ever seen: each book is perfectly self-contained and has its own arc, but also fits perfectly in the bigger picture of the trilogy. The atmosphere is amazing, the cast of characters is extremely well developed. Also frost demons are better than men.

The Binding by Bridget Collins: historical fantasy, but with very minimal fantasy elements. It’s set in a world vaguely reminiscent of 19th century England. I’d say this book is about humans and self discovery. It’s about cowardice and the lies we tell ourselves and those we wish we could tell ourselves. Gay rep. (TW: abuse, sexual assault, pretty graphic suicide scene).

The Divine Cities trilogy by Robert Jackson Bennett: starting with City of Stairs, it follows a female diplomat and spymaster(!!). The whole trilogy features an interesting discussion about godhood, religion, fanatism, politics, without ever being boring or preachy. It has complex and rich world building and a pretty compelling mystery.

Foundryside by Robert Jackson Bennett: heist fantasy following a thief as she’s hired to steal a powerful artifact that may change magical technology as she knows it. Set in a Venice-like merchant city. Also, slow burn f/f romance.

Jade City by Fonda Lee: sort of a gangster urban fantasy, heavily inspired by wuxia and set in an Asian-inspired metropolis. It follows a pretty big cast of characters, each with their own journey and development. It features nuanced family dynamics and a lot of political and economical subplots. Not extremely prominent, but book 2 features m/m side rep.

Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse: inspired by Native American culture and specifically by the idea of subsequent worlds. It has a kickass MC and a good mix of original elements and typical UF tropes. TW: the book isn’t extremely violent but there is death and some gore.

A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine: space opera inspired by the Mexica and middle period Byzantium. It focuses on topics like colonialism and the power of narratives and language. It has one of the best descriptions of what it’s like to live in between spaces I’ve ever read. Also very interesting political intrigue and has a slow burn f/f romance (and a poly relationship recalled through flashbacks). I ranted a lot about it already.

Ninefox Gambit by Yoon Ha Lee: a Korean-inspired space opera with a magic system based on math. It’s honestly quite convoluted and difficult to follow, but it also features some of the best political intrigue I’ve ever read. Plenty of lying, backstabbing and mind games. It also features lesbian and bisexual rep and an aroace side character (TW: mass shooting, sexual assault, abuse). I also really recommend Yoon Ha Lee’s short-story collection Conservation of Shadows.

The long way to a small angry planet by Becky Chambers: character driven space opera featuring a found family journeying through space. A fun read, that also deals with topics such as sexuality and race. Quite easy to go through, as the world building and plot aren’t particularly complex themselves. f/f romance.  

The Empress of Salt and Fortune by Nghi Vo: an Asian-inspired fantasy novella that gives a voice to people usually silenced by history. It follows a cleric (non binary rep) as they chronicle the story of the late empress, retold through objects that she used in her life. It focuses on bonds between women and the power that lies in being unnoticed. f/f side rep.

The Black God’s Drums by P. Djèlí Clark: an urban fantasy novella, based on Orisha mythology and set in an alternate, sort of steampunk, New Orleans. I really like how creative Clark’s worlds are and how good he is at writing female characters (which rarely happens with male authors).

The haunting of tram car 015 by P. Djèlí Clark: novella set in an alternate steampunk Cairo populated by supernatural entities. It’s set in the same world of a Dead Djinn in Cairo, which is a short story you can read for free.

This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone: epistolary novella set during a time-travel war. It has gorgeous writing and an amazing f/f romance. As a novella, it’s quite short but it’s beautifully crafted and so complex for such a short book!

The Citadel of Weeping Pearls by Aliette de Bodard: a novella set in the Xuya universe (a series of novellas/short stories set in a timeline where Asia became dominant, and where the space age has empires of Vietnamese and Chinese inspiration), but can be read as a standalone. It’s a space opera featuring a disappeared citadel and the complex relationship between the empress and her daughter as war threatens her empire.

One for My Enemy by Olivie Blake: self-published urban fantasy following two rival families in New York. Sort of a Romeo and Juliette retelling but with gangster families and magic. Honestly recommend all of her books, I love how Olivie writes and especially how she writes female characters.

[spiltscribbles]

Prompt: remus and lily as siblings or half siblings or biological family in any capacity pls 🥺

Oh God!!! Baby!!!🥺🥺😭 This is such a favorite AU of mine!! I’m literally— sorta— writing a To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before AU right now and they are the bestest siblings in that!!!  They share a little sister and they are just so cute!! And Petunia is conveniently off in university oaiwefjoiaswejfiogreghoij And I just love Remus and Lily both so much it hurts!!! And so I wanna spit out a bullet point Ficlet at you! And I’m not even sorry just because I love you so endlessly for tossing this into my inbox foiwaeifmkaeoirfgjieoarujoidkioweajgh 

So like in my head, becs that Voldy bitch doesn’t know how to actually world build, the Muggle born children who get their Hogwarts letters, are also invited to join this like support group for ordinary folks with magical children. It’s like a thing that’s held in the Ministry of magic over in London once a month, and the parents are taught about the Wizarding world while their children kind of go to this separate room to intermingle and read Hogwarts; A History with one another, and just vibe, because pure bloods and those close to that have always sorta known one another and such, so this is a nice way for the Muggle borns not to feel so excluded.

So the thing is, obviously Lyall was a wizard, but also we all know I don’t fuck with him lmfao. So I picture that after he leaves for the final time when Remus is around nine, and finalizes the  divorce with Hope, she— being the bad bitch that she is, just marches to the ministry with her half-blood, werewolf son, and demands to learn everything about the world he’s part of, because she refuses to let him be deprived of anything. 

Eventually she becomes one of the tutors for the adult section because she’s such a quick study— being a professor herself back in Cardiff and just being an all around bombshell tbh. So one day, in February of 1970, there’s this ginger haired, northerner who stumbles in with his daughter who looks so much like him that it’s crazy— dimples and smile and upturned nose. Though she has her mother’s eyes, who had past away when she was only seven from a freak car accident.

And when he first shake’s Hope’s hand, he’s like kind of mind boggled over how beautiful she is, and thinks that maybe all wizards just put on some sort of charm to look unearthly, till he finds out that she’s as Muggle as he is towards the end of his visit. And he is just entirely love struck tbh.

And for the next couple months or so, he kind of just yearns from afar, and then spends the ride home to Cokeworth listening to Lily’s excited chortling about her friend Remus who’s apparently a half blood and who likes the same treats as her and knows how to draw things so amazingly, and it isn’t until like May, when he ambles to the other room and realizes that Remus is actually Hope’s fucking son, and he already knows that she said she began this group after separating from her husband who was a wizard himself. So Lily’s father— Nate— quite literally just shoots his shot and asks if Lily would like to get ice cream with her new friend since Petunia won’t be coming back from there Grams’s house till late, and Hope sorta smirks from over the kids’ heads because she sees exactly what he’s doing and is impressed that he’s finally done something for fuck’s sake.

And like obviously they fall hard for one another, and they probs get married like Lily’s second year at Hogwarts.

Wait, just Lily’s you ask??

Yes my beautiful duckling,  because plot twist!! (We lovee plot twists!!!)

In this AU i picture that McGonagall kind of visits during the summer months leading up to the children’s first year at Hogwarts, just to give them some supplementary readings and answer the questions for their future schooling, and when Dumbledore tells her about Remus’s full situation with his lycanthropy and all, she does some research, and figures out how Beauxbatons is much, MUCH more accommodating to “dark” creatures, and she’s already pretty chummy with Hope and knows that she’s actually a French citizen herself, the daughter of Algerian immigrants. So Remus technically has the possibility to attend Hogwarts or Beauxbatons, and so Hope and Remus talk on it long and hard, and she knows he’s already become fast friends with Lily and their thick as thieves with one another, but it’s also just so much safer for him.

So the week before Lily is set to go off to King’s Cross, they fly over to France and they get Remus settled in his dorm abroad.

I think while they’re away, Lily and Remus actually somehow become closer, because their parents are still dutifully dating and neither of them are all that familiar with their surroundings, so they send one another so many fucking letters through that first term, that the owls of their schools always give them the dirtiest looks lmfao. And they really catch on like a house on fire, like it’s one of those relationships that is just innate? Like you know when you have a best friend you guys kind of just slip into one another lives? Like even when you don’t talk for a while or whatever, it’s just natural<3 <3 

So neither of them ever spend the hols of winter or spring in Hogwarts/Beauxbatons, becs that’s when they really get to vibe.

They tell one another the different cool charms they’ve learned, and hate that they can’t show them with their actual wands yet. And they watch all their favorite films and almost adopt this secret language that’s only the quirk of their brows and twitch of the lips, and Petunia hates how freakily attuned they are with one another and sneers at them for being such freaks in all aspects. Also in this AU Lily fucks off from Snape wayyyy sooner, because instead of having to deal with that nasty, bigoted, slime ball she has the cutest and funniest and most amazing bestie in Remus!

And before Hope and Nate exchange vows in the winter of their second year, the little family of five go to this tiny park that’s all lush grassland and a shiny jungle gym and a pair of swings tucked away by trees, and they sit at this picnic table, and Hope— with her steady, ever buoyant voice, explains to them why she and Remus decided to send him to Beauxbatons instead of Hogwarts, and Petunia is like gawking in fright, and Nate looks sort of distressed, but Lily just cocks her head and shrugs her shoulders, because it’s still Remus— her closest companion Rem— and nothing could change that. So she takes his hand from where it’s fiddling with a splintered piece of wood on the tabletop and she squeezes it tightly, watches him glance up at her with the late summer wind billowing in his tawny curls and the fear in his honey eyes, and she simply tells him that it doesn’t matter. And Lily will never forget the way his features spasm at that, going suddenly loose and bright and thankful, and then Nate probably tousles his hair and kisses Hope’s temple and shyly asks how they should accommodate once they move in with one another.

And that park becomes sorta special tbh.

It’s in that alcove with the swings and trees where Lily and Remus go when things are becoming too much, or they would just like to escape the world by one another’s side.

It’s where they tried their first cigarettes that Remus had gotten from an older bloke in Beauxbaton’s when they were thirteen and feeling adventurous. And where they go to listen to the releases of their favorite albums, and when Remus told Lily that he’s gay for the first time before leaving to both their fourth years and it’s like one of those spots they both think of and feel golden.

Oh God! Imagine how cute of a celebration that Nate and Hope hold for them both becoming prefects!!! Hope and Nate definitely insist on some sort of summer todo! And they invite their friends and all that jazz and OMFG what if Lily’s wearing some sorta powder blue sundress that matches Remus’s oxford shirt and they both are grimacing in all the photos and are just not thriving foieajfoierjgiearfoijsdkgxh But like they would be doted on rotten that whole day! This is so cute! OMFG! And this probs means James became Prefect as well and so Remus gets to tease her when he sends her some sort of congratulations letter and she’s totally blushing and trying to hide her grin, and Lily retaliates by kicking his ankle tbh bahaha 

Okay also now I’m thinking of like Lily’s like fifth year, and her Muggle studies class is doing some sort of seminar to see if these idiots can actually survive in a totally Muggle area without a lick of magic, so like it’s spring hols, and guess who she’s partnered up with??? 

Cookies for you because we all know she had to work with James and Sirius lmfao!!! 

And she’s totally still trying to hide her crush on James— who’s nearly always leering and winking her way— and she might actually punch Sirius’s face simply because he’s such a smug bastard, and being from a working class family like herself, she’s like always ready to fight preppy rich boys tbh

So James and Sirius decide to plan out the simulation in her house that’s right outside Cardiff and Remus is cackling the entire morning before they’re set to arrive because she’s so pissy about it lmfao

Okay so like obviously the boys end up taking the port key and land in front of her place and it’s Remus who answers the door, still painted with humor because Lily was just screaming about “if Potter brings that insufferable snitch here I’ll bloody shove it up his arse” and James is immediately on the defense because Lily’s only ever talked about her sister and brother who live with her at home, and this dude is golden where she’s pale and has curls over her straight hair and just, obviously they’re not related by blood at all. And for his part, Sirius is like *Oh! Oh! Oh! Pretty!!! Pretty boy!! Muggle boy? Pretty Muggle boy!* 

But Remus obviously knows who they are straight away, so he like waves them inside before rounding to the stairs and calling for her to stop clogging the toilet or something else mortifyingly embarrassing, and Lily promises to put like pickles in the next set of face masks that they do because she knows how fucking allergic he is to them, and she wants her chuckles damn it!!  

“Potter— Black,” is how she greets them with a derisive sort of glower that Remus can completely see through, so he has to excuse himself while laughing over to the kitchen. “You’ve met my delightful brother I see.”

And James’s entire posture relaxes and he’s back to grinning like a dope, and the only weird part is that Sirius has got on the very same face, *Pretty Muggle boy is Evan’s brother* So like they are both scary levels of elated, rip.

But sucks to be Sirius because Remus leaves after that to meet up with a friend from town who’s also the best dealer tbh, and  so he has to deal with James’s awful levels of flirting with Lily while they scrounge up their itinerary to send their professor for the seminar type thing, and he doesn’t even have a pretty distraction XS

But Lily does force Remus to come along with her on the trip to London because “On God, if I spend a day alone with those bellends by myself I will punch a wall” 

And it is literally the worst, but best double date/first date that’s full of Sirius and James fucking up with everything— including asking some poor Tesco employee where are their fudgeflies and giving a homeless man a hand full of galleons and James’s snitch somehow ending up in the meaty hands of some kid at the tube. But also tbh it’s hella cute when Lily lets James give her his jacket when they’re walking along the Thames and it’s getting chilly, and when Remus lets Sirius share his stick of cotton candy and they both sorta stare at the sugar on each of their lips.

But then they go to some tiny museum, and while they’re looking at a impressionist piece, Sirius is totally trying to show off to Remus and is explaining how he could turn the bench their sitting on into a really nice bouquet of Lupins, and in the middle of his stupid showboating, Remus lightly corrects him on some facet of Gamp’s law, and Sirius freezes— shocked still— and he’ sort of gaping like an idiot, before Lily stops his blustering with a scoff “He’s a damn wizard also you arse.”

And Sirius is floundering for the rest of the evening, and he has so many questions, but they all die on his lips every time he glances over at Remus and he’s just smirking at him with this electric glint in his golden eyes

So obviously when they’re back at Hogwarts he pesters Lily every second of every day about Remus, and why he’s not at Hogwarts. “None of your fucking business.” And asking where Remus goes instead. “Beauxbatons, thankfully far away from you.” and he asks her about a thousand other questions that Lily either scoffs at or simply cuffs him around the head for daring to even try getting his address.

And she pokes fun about the situation to Remus and tells him how much more of an idiot he’s acting like, and how hilarious it all is. And she’s shocked when he responds to her letter merely by saying, “Hah- he’s cute.”

And so obviously she shoots back a reply that’s a letter of all his worst traits, mainly that he’s an arrogant toerag, and that he’s a posh idiot who could probably live off his inheritance for three lifetimes without blinking, and about how he doesn’t date anyone for longer than a couple months, and how he’s practically brothers with James bloody Potter, and yet again, Remus just tells her, Hah- he’s cute, before mildly moving to talking about his latest charms paper and how he’s been asked to be their DADA’s professors TA next year, and how Andrew keeps trying to try again with him but Remus would rather poke his eyes out with a spork.

So Lily is totally fuming when she recognizes that she’s lost and begrudgingly gives Sirius Remus’s info, after telling him lowly and with her most menacing glower, “IF you fuck around with my brother I will murder you without a flinch.” And she’s quite literally five feet nothing to Sirius’s broad, six-foot frame, but he knows that she could do it with a snap of the finger, and he promises that it’s not just a gag on his end. And Lily actually believes him.

So Remus and Sirius begin writing to one another a sickening amount, like so steadfastly that it gives Lily a complex whenever she finds Sirius waiting at the Owlry every Wednesday morning for the bird that arrives with two letters tied to it’s leg, one for each of them.

And God, one time, right before they let out for summer hols, Lily accidentally takes the one marked for Sirius— and holy christ!!!, She did not need to know just what exactly her brother has been getting up to in the sex department of things— like she legit contemplated using a memory charm on herself JFC

And Sirius probably ends up on their doorstep again in late July, with James at toe, and somehow their is a small harmony painted between the four of them, and it’s by Christmas of sixth year when James and Sirius begin talking about how amazing it’ll be when they’re actually in-law brothers, and Lily blames Remus for everything when she’s pretending to be cross over it, but then James puts his arm around her shoulders, and she sees how gentle Sirius is when he twines his fingers into Remus’s own, and it feels good, feels right. 

It feels like something that can be forever.

Send Me A Prompt/Chat With Me💜  |  My Wolfstar FIC Masterlist

[tossawary]

Chapter 27: “The First Day” of “pride is not the word I’m looking for” quotes and commentary. Not a full list of favorite quotes or full commentary.

-

Right now, deep into the safety of darkness, Shang Qinghua thinks about how he never actually expected to be lying in his bed with Mobei-Jun. No, there’s a reason his sofa is comfortable enough to sleep on! That was by design too! Sure, Shang Qinghua had lots and lots of bed-related fantasies, but he had no expectations of those fantasies ever coming true. He didn’t dare to have expectations.

It’s kind of weird, lying in bed with Mobei-Jun. It’s definitely weird lying in his bed partially on top of Mobei-Jun. With the way things were headed, Shang Qinghua was admittedly fostering some hopes about those bed-related fantasies, but he still didn’t think to mentally prepare himself for the practical details. He really wasn’t mentally prepared for the softness of Mobei-Jun’s hair, for the thickness and the weight of the man’s arms, or for the coolness of his skin against the warmth of the blankets.

Fuck, now there is no way that Shang Qinghua is going to be able to see Mobei-Jun with a plunging neckline without thinking about touching the man’s bare chest. It’s a nice chest! It feels great underneath Shang Qinghua’s hands now.

He can feel a steady heartbeat beneath his fingers.

He can feel the gentle rise and fall of it with the man’s slow breaths, as the man’s eyes have fallen comfortably closed.

Shang Qinghua has never seen Mobei-Jun this relaxed.

-

AN: Moshang in bed together is very good. I loved writing Moshang cuddles. I think it’s really nice when they’re allowed to be soft and relaxed, and everything is understood between them. Mobei-Jun at this point has learned to treat Shang Qinghua like a particularly anxious cat sometimes - if he just stays still and relaxed, eventually Shang Qinghua will calm down and chill with him. 

Shout out to Mobei-Jun and all those years he spent trying to get some hint as to how human social everything worked, only to get nearly no help from Shang Qinghua. In this fic, part of the idea is that Shang Qinghua has been a slightly better communicator. Mobei-Jun can be a good listener when he doesn’t feel hideously embarrassed over his fuck-ups. 

-

“I had made plans to speak with you at some point about… this,” Mobei-Jun agrees. “But that was not why I had come to see you that day.”

“Ah, what… what was it, then?”

Mobei-Jun sighs. “I had come from a gathering of demon lords, hosted by my father at their request. They have loosely agreed to each contribute to an attack on the next conference of human cultivators,” he explains, apparently annoyed at just having to recollect this event. “My uncle encourages my father to force my involvement. He must have trouble planned… or see an opportunity for it.”

Shang Qinghua processes this, then sits bolt upright in bed. “What?!”

Mobei-Jun frowns up at him.

“There’s a demonic alliance to attack the next Immortal Alliance Conference?!” Shang Qinghua demands, leaning over the demon lord beside him.

“Yes.”

“And you waited to tell me this?!”

“There are years left before this event,” Mobei-Jun points out.

Shang Qinghua stares at him.

Sure! But he feels like he should start planning now! He already knew that there was going to be a demon attack of some kind - the seal on Luo Binghe’s powers has to be broken - but demon lords getting involved is bad news! Multiple demon lords who are important enough to be socializing with Mobei-Jun’s father is worse news! Demon lords potentially including Mobei-Jun’s shitty father and shitty uncle is the worst news of all!

“You should warn your people,” Mobei-Jun says, dryly.

- 

AN: Mobei-Jun doesn’t care about the sects, but he cares that Shang Qinghua cares. Mobei-Jun and Shang Qinghua really are villainous in SVSSS. Shang Qinghua just so happens to sometimes be on the protagonist’s (Shen Yuan’s) side and Shen Yuan has romanced a budding tyrant who has MBJ as a loyal minion. But, oof, I didn’t want to go that route with this fic. 

I mean, I considered it! I considered having Shang Qinghua be forced to bring a demon invasion down on the sect he’s come to care about and his own nephew, but that felt a little too angsty for me. It totally could have been good, I was just like, “I can’t handle that.” Plus, with the world update, it felt fitting to jazz things up a little bit - to up the ante by inviting more demon lords and also have a little role reversal by letting Mobei-Jun be the spy. This way, I think, it really feels like Mobei-Jun is on Shang Qinghua’s side. 

Shang Qinghua isn’t on the demons’ side. Mobei-Jun isn’t really on the humans’ side. But they are on each other’s side. They’re a team! 

Again, what’s more romantic than your demon boyfriend actually doing the work of growth on his own? Moshang can be a little rough and with a lot of sharp edges (on both sides, they’re both kind of mean people) sometimes, so it’s sometimes nice to remember that they can support each other too. 

Also, I’ve always been kind of curious about what Mobei-Jun’s family thinks of his relationship with a human. Mobei-Jun’s father is still alive throughout SVSSS, so it’s fun to think about ice demon politics, power and influence and loyalty in that court, and whether that factored at all into Mobei-Jun’s extremely slow-moving courting timeline of a human. 

-

The person at the door knocks a third time, and Shang Qinghua feels the person beside him stir. He can feel a not insignificant amount of weight shifting, a low and unhappy grumble, and cool skin brushing against his own as that person makes to get up. Possibly to handle the person at the door? Shang Qinghua here abruptly remembers many important details about his current situation that make the sect potentially being on fire seem like a not-so-bad emergency.

 “Demon invasion,” Shang Qinghua finds himself thinking. “Mobei-Jun. Fuck.”

“No, no, no! Don’t get up! I’ll get it!” Shang Qinghua cries, throwing off tangled blankets and flying out of bed. “I’ll handle it, my king! Sorry! Ahhh, sorry! I’ll take care of it, you can just stay where you are-”

Shang Qinghua, now on his feet, pushes firmly down against Mobei-Jun’s chest. He’s not expecting the man - a very, very strong and very, very stubborn demon lord - to go back down under his hand without any resistance at all. This easy obedience, this willingly being pushed down, leads to a surprised Shang Qinghua overbalancing and catching himself hard on Mobei-Jun’s chest and shoulders.

As though Shang Qinghua is actually pinning the man down.

Mobei-Jun stares up at him, eyes low-lidded, and raises his eyebrows.

Ah.

Wow.

Shang Qinghua is going to… well, he’s going to think about this for the rest of his life, probably.

-

AN: Mobei-Jun is so self-conscious in SVSSS that it’s kind of hilarious. So it’s fun to let him be a little more confident (rather than arrogant and lashing out defensively). Mobei-Jun probably thought to himself here, “You know what’ll be funny here? If I just go down now.” I feel it in my heart that Mobei-Jun is a teaser, especially when he’s relaxed and happy. 

- 

Shang Qinghua takes the time to fix up his appearance a little more - to get rid of the “I slept with a demon” smell - because if the asshole at his door has kept it up this long, they can wait a little longer. It turns out that he didn’t really need to bother, because it’s his fellow transmigrator and most dogged critic, Peerless Cucumber.

“Bro,” Shang Qinghua says seriously. “Do you have a deathwish?”

Peerless Cucumber - Shen Yuan, Shang Qinghua has to remember to call the kid by his real name - lowers his hand with a scowl. “...One of your disciples told me to knock on your door and keep knocking until you answered,” the other transmigrator says defensively. “After I said you said to meet you in the morning.”

“...Which one?”

“Wen Shufen, I think?”

“Ah, just for that prank, Sticky Fingers is going to be hauling fertilizer for Long Sheng Peak for a month,” Shang Qinghua says tiredly. “Bro, do not believe half the things your martial siblings here tell you. They’re pretty much all liars, cheats, and thieves.”

“Then why keep them around?”

“Ah, well, sometimes you need someone to lie, cheat, or steal.”

“...It’s nearly not morning anymore, you know.”

“Eh, I guess you get a pass this time, since I did tell you we’d have a nice long talk about things tomorrow morning. Come on in.”

- 

AN: I don’t know if this vibe is coming across, but Shen Yuan feels a little ignored and neglected. They just got back from a mission and Shen Yuan has already been shooed off like twice. Shang Qinghua is so busy. Shang Qinghua is so experienced and so established here. Shen Yuan has latched onto SQH as his lifeline, though he’s trying very, very hard to be independent, and yet Shang Qinghua kind of has SY on the back burner most of the time. 

Not only is Shang Qinghua the author of this world, but he’s also an important figure in this world. Shang Qinghua really lives here and if the plot wasn’t looming over them, SQH would be very happy here. This place feels 100% like Shang Qinghua’s | Airplane’s world and brand new transmigrator Shen Yuan feels like an unwanted intruder. SY is still lonely and scared. 

- 

“...Are you going to try to activate it now?” Shen Yuan asks.

“Hmmm… no, not right now,” Shang Qinghua decides, standing up off the dusty stool he was sitting on. “Cucumber, bro, I’m just not awake enough for tackling anything serious right now. Let me get a few texts and tools together first to test this thing properly, alright? Some safety equipment! Aprons and face shields! Thick, fireproof gloves! I’m still trying to figure out how to safely ask Duan Tianyu what he knows about this map the System apparently made him send me, when he might not even know what the fuck I’m talking about! Maybe he can give us some hints.”

“Who?”

“One of my Huan Hua not-disciples,” Shang Qinghua answers. “I picked up some extras a few deadly missions back. They’re good kids. All grown up now! Less naïve than they used to be! Duan Tianyu is teaching back at Huan Hua Palace now, so maybe I’ll have to be the one to wander over there on some pretense.”

Shen Yuan agrees that getting as much information as possible is probably the better course of action. Shang Qinghua ushers the kid out of his secret basement and his fellow transmigrator goes easily enough. Shang Qinghua complains about his shitty, no-good System on the way up for forcing them to do all the work by themselves.

“It must think everything is more ‘authentic’ if I don’t know what the fuck is going on,” Shang Qinghua suggests, removing his spiritual seal and causing the door to the secret basement to vanish. “Ah, I’ll admit that’s kind of cool to watch.”

-

AN: Throughout this conversation, SY is kind of reaching out, giving himself or Airplane excuses to let him stay. It’s not that he doesn’t want to cultivate, but SQH represents a sort of safety and familiarity SY doesn’t have right now. 

In SVSSS, Airplane was always pretty direct with Shen Yuan, from what I remember, but he wasn’t necessarily open. He was direct about some potentially vulnerable or personal topics, like Luo Binghe’s insanity or his own general fear of his character’s planned death, but that’s not the same as actually being vulnerable. They snap at each other, they’re pretty direct about their personal goals, but they don’t actually get vulnerable with each other by confessing their personal fears and new relationship developments. 

So I’ve tried to adopt that here, while making Shang Qinghua a little kinder and slightly more vulnerable, thanks to the efforts of Luo Jiahui. But Shang Qinghua still isn’t necessarily open here and neither is Shen Yuan. He’s just like, “Hey, it’s shit and I don’t like it either, but what can you do?” He’s not actually seriously talking about his breakdown or just how scared he is of his own plot. 

For some people, there’s a certain kind of openness in confessing things to a stranger, so it’s kind of like that too. Shang Qinghua and Shen Yuan have fallen into kind of familiar dynamics, because there’s nothing else to really do, and they are kind of acquaintances, but they’re still not friends yet. 

I think I want to have SY and SQH actually address this soon. SY feels that SQH has been kind of dropping the ball when it comes to honestly helping his fellow transmigrator, though SY, being SY, can’t quite put his finger on the lack of emotional intimacy and affection that he’s starved for right now. 

- 

The day-in-day-out of Cang Qiong Mountain Sect can’t get him down today! He feels kind of like he’s walking on air! Sure, the work never stops and there are some fucking terrifying things ahead, but he just had a very successful mission overall! He just had a really, really successful conversation with Mobei-Jun! He and Mobei-Jun are romantically entwined and Mobei-Jun was very explicit about the fact that he expects them to be romantically entwined… pretty much indefinitely!

“There is no one else,” Mobei-Jun had said. “There will be no one else.”

Shang Qinghua fostered a lot of hopes over the years! More hopes than he felt that he should have reasonably fostered! And to have those hopes unexpectedly fulfilled like this is… really something! It’s really, really something! Mobei-Jun really isn’t the type of character to say that - to say any of the things he said, and wow, he said a lot of things back there - without meaning it completely.

Shang Qinghua doesn’t really know what to do with that.

Forever is a long time.

He understands, of course, that some things really do last an impossibly long time. He used to be pretty certain that all love matches faded eventually - that people were genuinely wildly in love… that people were sincerely in love with each other, sure… up until they inevitably weren’t anymore - but now he can’t really imagine Liu Qingge or Luo Jiahui ever getting tired of each other. Liu Qingge keeps bringing Luo Jiahui new recipes to try and rare ingredients to interest her, so she can make dishes for the two of them or her family as a whole, and Shang Qinghua can easily imagine the two of them doing that pretty much indefinitely.

Shang Qinghua can’t think about this for long, before he has to focus on greeting his disciples (it’s just Peng Hongpeng and Chen Xuan in here at the moment) and getting to work. “Good things last while they last!” he decides for now, because thinking about things not lasting kind of makes him feel like he’s dying.

-

AN: Shang Qinghua can’t quite bring himself to believe in a relationship lasting forever right now. Part of it is his commitment issues, but another part of it is his persisting inability to see past the looming plot. He’s still worried about Luo Binghe and the Eternal Abyss, so he’s having difficulty seeing past that hurdle, even though things like Luo Jiahui’s marriage and his new relationship with Mobei-Jun are forcing him to confront the fact that there’s still a life outside of and beyond the plot. 

For Shang Qinghua, it’s kind of a “I’ll think about that later if we all survive” thing when it comes to him and Mobei-Jun. 

- 

“He made a mistake with good intentions and got a small injury for it,” Shang Qinghua says, as reassuringly as he can. “He’s fine! He’s in trouble with his shizun for it, though, but I’ll see what I can do about bringing you up to meet him or bringing him down here as soon as possible. I’ll do my best to make it happen!”

Luo Jiahui leans into Shang Qinghua’s side and admits, “I miss him.”

“He misses you.”

“I miss you too,” Luo Jiahui adds.

“...Ah, sorry.”

“It’s okay,” his sister-in-law says warmly. “I’d miss you even if you visited every day.”

Shang Qinghua is holding her hands, but it feels like she’s got an extra one wrapped around his heart. “Where’s that husband of yours? Doesn’t he come down the mountain every day? Should I be telling him off? Sorry I ran off with him for a little bit!”

“What does Qingge have to do with you and me?” Luo Jiahui demands. “It doesn’t matter how often I see everyone else, I still miss you and Binghe the most.”

“Hm, that’s a point! That’s a point.”

What else can Shang Qinghua do but admit that he misses her the most too?

-

AN: It was fun to follow up Shang Qinghua’s romantic developments with a return to his most important and longest relationship: the one he has with his “fake” sister. Luo Jiahui is and always will be important to Shang Qinghua and who he’s become. They have such a lovely relaxed feeling that’s nice to revisit. I’ve missed Luo Jiahui these past few chapters, as things get twisted up more and more in sect business. 

It would feel dishonest to the rest of the fic if Shang Qinghua’s other relationships disappeared in favor of his new romantic relationship. They all have their own importance. Mobei-Jun and Liu Qingge don’t make Shang Qinghua and Luo Jiahui any less important to each other. 

I am looking forward to making Mobei-Jun and Luo Jiahui meet again, and tackling some of Mobei-Jun’s thoughts on Shang Qinghua’s relationship with his family. Mobei-Jun has a really shitty family, so it’s interesting thinking about what family means to him and how loyalty/love plays into it. 

- 

While he's busy plotting around the plot, there’s a hum of power behind him, the cool whoosh and crackle of a portal opening, the faint hair-rising warning of demonic energy. Shang Qinghua finishes tapping at his own face in thought, looks up at the looming shadow standing behind him, and smiles. He kind of feels like he should run away, but it's too late for that now. He held on long enough that he made it too late for himself.

“Hello,” he says.

- 

AN: I took this almost exactly from the first chapter of Part 3 of this fic. I can’t remember the chapter number, but it was the one titled “The Inevitable Plot”. 

Parts 3 and 4 of this fic blend together a little. Part 3 of this fic kind of ends here, but I have a couple more chapters that I want to tackle before I feel that I can say we’re for sure in Part 4? I have some things I want to accomplish before we go into a slight time skip towards the Immortal Alliance Conference. 

[bubblegumbeech]

So. I just found your “Wish Come True” story and am kind of in love with it right now!! (Even if I’m late, sorry about that)

Like Pariah’s goal is literally to adopt and raise two orphaned kids with their (in denial about fatherhood) prince dad. Such plan includes destroying the people that have hurt or plant to hurt his now (adoption and marriage pending) family and remove anything that might convince them to leave. I love it!

Maybe I’m reading too much into the conversation but it sounds Pariah is just as taken with Danny and Jazz as Clockwork is. Which is something I really enjoy with this and all of your other stories! I love how it’s heavily implied that if Pariah could leave with Danny, Jazz, and Clockwork he would. But he needs to keep at least Clockwork in the palace walls so that he can slaughter the Observants and ruin any military forces that would follow them. It’s just a fun idea that the only reason the Pariah is planning this coup d’éta so that his future husband Clockwork won’t leave him and their kids out of a misplaced sense or responsibility to a kingdom that doesn’t really need him. (It doesn’t sound like he is first or even second in line for the throne it’s not like he would be missed if he was just going to be married off to a foreign prince/king anyway).

I deeply enjoyed this story!!! I just kept thinking about it and I ended up with a few questions. (Maybe entire prequel scenario is a better term for it?)

I was wondering if Pariah already had Danny and Jazz out of the kingdom safely in the care of his people?

Is that what caused the fight in the beginning and why Clockwork didn’t react as frightened when Pariah mentioned taking Danny and Jazz with them? Had Danny and Jazz gone missing and reports Clockwork heard made it sound like they were kidnapped by the forty thieves? Did Clockwork hear the news and decode to either go out to look for them himself or have someone sent out to investigate (because there was a security risk if they were able to get into the kingdom and leave with two of their child citizens (absolutely everything nothing to do with them being Clockwork’s kids) and the fight happens while Pariah tries to reassure Clockwork in some way that the kids are safe while accidentally revealing that he is the one that sent someone to take the kids? And that’s where the thief accusation came from? Because Pariah stole Clockwork’s children,

Was one of the things that Pariah and Clockwork discussed during their courting adopting or at least taking Danny and Jazz with them if they got married (like Pariah talking about his “kingdom” and subtly bringing up how frequent and respected adoption was and subtly implying that he wouldn’t mind adopting Clockwork’s kids and that was something that made the truth harder on Clockwork when it was revealed? Because he doesn’t know if Danny and Jazz would really be safe even if he went with them he “knows” they won’t be safe if they stay in his kingdom after Pariah takes over.)

Thank you again for the awesome story! Also sorry if how I played with the font is annoying or if some words don’t make sense. I just discovered how to add bold and cross out words and my keyboard needs to be replaced.

Wow okay first off thank you So much for this comment I’ve read it like six times and I love love love it. I’m always thrilled when people like my work but it’s another thing entirely to have someone engage with it like this!!!

As for your questions, (or maybe they aren’t questions sorry) but that is 100% Pariah’s goal!! The instigating incident is honestly something that would be super fun to write from Pariah’s point of view because it basically amounts to him seeing a cute guy (and cute guy’s kids) in trouble and saving him. Very Thomas O’Malley right? Except his “super subtle let me destroy this order of Observants by sneaking my way into the palace so that cute guy and kids are safe and avenged” plan is kinda ruined when That Very Same Cute Guy is The Prince He’s Pretending to Be A Candidate to Marry!!!

As for Danny and Jazz, I wasn’t really thinking of them or what they were doing during the argument (I had it in my head that CW found out in a much more accidental subtle way like seeing a signet ring or an infamous sword) but I like your idea more. So now I’m picturing CW not hearing from the kids, so he starts going out more in disguise to try and find them only to get captured himself by Pariah’s men who .. just. Take him to Pariah. This of course would lead to the confrontation and CW realizing just how fucked his kingdom is should Pariah give the order to invade.

As for talking about adoption. I have this image of a CW that tries to come across as aloof and unconcerned, despite the fact that he clearly cares so much. So while he would take them in and basically treat them as his own… he would never put right mention adoption. Pariah wouldn’t think of it, cause he doesn’t realize it’s an unofficial thing since he was introduced to the fam by CW stepping in to protect them and getting basically tortured for it. However he is Very much playing the kind of divorce dad game where he tries to convince the kids he’s the fun dad and they should be on his side (esp with the coup he’s planning.) but I don’t think he’s taken them out of the kingdom, but he does have “a brand new safer hiding place” for them where the Observants can’t find them. That’s what I picture at least, now that you mention it >>.

And it’s fun to play with font and stuff and makes it a bit easier to read so don’t apologize for that!! Anyways I hoped you like my rambles, any one shot I write is of course 100% open to be taken and ran with if you do have a really vivid idea you want to play with (just tag me so I can see it 👀)

[ficklepicklefandoms]

in dublin’s fair city ~ t.h

Pairing: Tom Holland x Reader

Requested: no

Word count: 2,537 (my longest one ever!)

Warnings: Binge drinking, swearing, Irish slang and pure Dublin shenanigans.

Hi guys! I’ve had this in my drafts since July which is highly criminal if you ask me! There’s a lot of things that I love about my fair city of Dublin (nickname comes from the song Molly Malone. Listen to this classic!) and I am so excited to be able to share lots of them with you through this one shot! Here comes the bad news... I have final exams in June and need to study hard to get the points I need for my university course. I’m hoping to get some things out to you guys before then but it may be Easter break before anything comes your way. Thank you for your constant support and love with my writing. Please make sure to request things in my ask box for the future! Love and hugs as always xx

My friends and I sat around a small table in The Temple Bar Pub nursing our third or fourth pint of the night. It was nearing 8 and I’d lost count of how many drinks I’d had. The Irish trad music lilting through the air and the harmonious laughter of my friends reminded me my pint was slowly emptying. It would fill up soon without a doubt on earth.

“Ah here now, would you fill your glass before you embarrass us!” My friend Faye called out to me with a large smile adorning her face.

“Well, my drink is nearly gone too so if you’re going you better fill mine too,” Jess called out to me. The rest of our large group agreed and knocked back their drinks.

“Only if you’re buying.” I hit back wittily, knocking back the remainder of the liquid and feeling the tiniest burn on my throat. I held out my hand and she placed a fifty euro note in my hand. I laughed knowing she was being scaldy and reached into my pocket to pull out another fifty euro note.

“Pints again there Y/N, you’ll need at least another two before you get a fella.” Emma laughed loudly and I rolled my blurry eyes. I scooted past Max and Sammy in our booth, collecting the empty glasses before Alannah followed me to help me carry the pints.

“John, we’re gonna need another round,” I called out to the barman. He sauntered over and took the money out of my hands. I placed the empty glasses on the bar and Alannah stood against it

“I assume yous all want the same again. Orchard Thieves or Heineken?” He asked with a chuckle, his accent thick and warm.

“What do you take us for, fecking eejits? Orchard Thieves, ya bollocks.” Alannah laughed and John moved to pull the pints. 

Our group was quite large. We all kept in contact after school ended and it was rare that we were all together like old times. 

John had pulled the first two pints and Alannah took them over to the table. I waited for the next two and did the same. Alannah collected her last two and I waited for my pint to be pulled. John handed me back far too much money for what we got but I accepted it, knowing it’d be a lost war.

I picked up my glass and began to head back to the table until my journey was disrupted by a body colliding into me.

“Ah swinging Jaysus watch where you’re heading!” I exclaimed as my pint went all over the floor. I silently cursed more in my mind as I was known in this pub for constantly spilling drinks. John never minded pouring me another on the house but I always felt guilty.

“I barely understood that but I sincerely apologise and I’ll buy you another pint.” A British accent spoke apologetically. I sipped what was left in the glass before meeting the eyes of the English man in front of me.

“Holy Mother of Mary I’m bloody locked if I think I’m seeing Tom Holland.” I choked as my drink got caught in my throat. Tom’s hand came in contact with my back gently as I coughed. 

“You’re seeing Tom Holland love, don’t worry about being locked or whatever you called it. What’s your name?” Tom said with a slight chuckle in his voice. His hand left my back and I felt the remaining warmth

Just then, Faye came running over. She was drunk and probably thought I’d left in her state.

“Y/N, sweetheart you need to be more careful with your pi- OH MY GOOD JESUS IS THAT THE SPIDERMAN FELLA?” She shouted. Tom looked alarmed and he seemed to be looking for someone. I hit Faye a smack on the arm and she rubbed it gingerly.

“Faye head back to the table I’m getting a pint with Tom. I’ll be back in a minute.” I ushered her quickly towards the group and she began gossiping as soon as she sat down. The boys at the table bounced excitedly in their seats, wanted to meet the movie star.

“So, that pint?” Tom laughed as we walked to the bar beside each other. “What’re you drinking Y/N?”

“Thieves,” I said waving my hand to John. “It went on the floor John, you’re gonna need a mop.”

“Ah, it’s grand love don’t be worrying. The same for your fella as well?” He smirked.

“Um yeah, can we get three pints?” He asked politely as he shifted from one foot to the other. I looked at him sightly funny as he ordered the three. “Harrison should be here somewhere, MATE!” He shouted as he spotted him. Harrison walked through the crowded pub and greeted his friend. I could feel the alcohol taking effect and I could hardly believe that Tom Holland was buying me a pint.

“Who’s the girl Tom?” Harrison asked as our pints came and Tom paid.

“Y/N, Tom spilt my pint and he owes me one,” I said with a wave as I began to gulp down the cider. “My mates are at that table over there, do yous want to join us?” I asked feeling a bit confident. My mind was buzzing Tom Holland had just bought me a pint and I wasn’t going to lie to myself and say I wasn’t attracted to him. And I also quietly thought of Max and Sammy, the Marvel geeks who’d kill to chat to the web-slinging hero. 

“Drinking with the prettiest girl in the pub? How could I say no?” Tom said as Harrison patted his back. I let out an embarrassed giggle and led them to the booth where my friends sat staring at us.

“Hey Y/N, the pretty girl with the short blonde hair, what’s her name?” Harrison asked as we made our way through the crowd carefully.

“Her name’s Alannah. She’s studying human nutrition in Queen’s up in Belfast. Slide in on her I doubt she’d mind,” I whispered quickly. I saw Alannah glance our way and Harrison waved softly.

“Tom and Harrison are drinking with us tonight, no objections. Tom and Harrison, the gang. Gang, Tom and Harrison. Play nice you wallys,” I said plopping down beside Tom after Harrison took a place beside Alannah, introducing himself quickly.

The group began chatting, Sammy and Max asking Tom about Spiderman and the sort. Alannah and Harrison seemed to be hitting it off quite well. Soon enough Tom and I started having a chat of our own. We talked about life, my law course at uni and his acting career. We had scooched closer together after the second pint, the cosy pub creating a homely atmosphere.

“So Y/N, where is one place I have to visit while I’m here? I know about the Guinness Storehouse and all that jazz but what’s your favourite place?” Tom asked me quietly as the group chatted around us. Without hesitation, I answered.

“The Iveagh Gardens without question. It’s so beautiful. We’re heading to a concert there tonight if you and Harrison want to tag along, Emma will get you tickets in minutes.” I said with a wave to Emma. She nodded her head and began texting on her phone. “She’s owed a favour by the lads at Aiken.” Tom smiled widely and placed his arm around my shoulders. I felt my body stiffen at his touch but I rapidly moulded into his body, enjoying the heat it provided. 

“I’m sure it’s beautiful but I doubt anything I see will ever be as beautiful as you.” He whispered into my ear. My cheeks were already quite red from the pints I’d been drinking but I swear at that moment I was officially a tomato.

“Y/N, polish off your drink there it’s nearly 10. Gates are opening in fifteen minutes. It's not too far a walk but you know what we’re like.” Max spoke to me across the table. He completed his pint as the table began to finish up their drinks and grab their coats.

My pint remained virtually untouched, Tom’s stunning eyes distracting me from it. Me being myself, I couldn’t let a good and full pint go to waste so, I did what any good Irish girl would. I decided to neck it.

“Hey Y/N watch it!” Tom laughs as he watches me intently.

“Don’t worry about her, she’s done it more than once.” Jess laughed. The girls started playing a drumroll on the table as I continued to knock back my pint. Tom’s eyes glinted with something I couldn’t quite place but he clapped loudly with the others as I slammed my glass onto the mahogany table.

“Right darlings, let us head to the gardens of Iveagh to hear the kings play,” I announced as I tugged on my leather jacket and grabbed my bag.

“The Kings? Are they some cool Irish band or something?” Tom asked as our group began to leave the pub.

“No silly, I just call them that. It’s a benefit concert for the homeless and there are tons of great Irish artists playing the gig. Walking On Cars, Keywest, Inhaler, Kodaline and the greatest band to come out of Dublin City, Aslan.” I waved goodbye to the barmen and John as the warm July air greeted me.

Tom looked visibly confused as we followed the group out onto the cobbled streets of Temple Bar.

“I’ve never heard of them before. Are they any good?” He asked curiously as we began our walk to the park at the back of the group. I could see Harrison and Alannah chatted animatedly and smiled to myself. I was hoping things would go well with the pair.

“Well you see, they were huge in the eighties. My ma was a huge fan of them and ended up becoming mates with them. She and her friends used to get all-access passes to the gigs in The Towers in Ballymun and they’d have a mental time.” I finished quickly with a sigh. My cheeks burned as Tom’s gaze held mine as we trudged up Grafton Street, the sound of buskers and their music made my heart warm.

“If they’re any good I might become of groupie myself.” Tom laughed as we passed by the gates of St Stephen’s Green.

“Luas! Quick leg it!” I shouted as the tram began to move along the tracks. MY group of friends yelled loudly as they rushed to get the other side of the tracks in one piece. Seeing that Tom had no idea what I was on about, I grabbed his hand and pulled him across the tracks with me, the two of us laughing loudly as we broke our hands apart to have a spontaneous race to the top of Harcourt Street.

We finished our race out of breath with Tom winning by the skin of his teeth. I want to emphasis that strongly. Skin. Of. His. Teeth.

“Not bad at all. But please tell me we’re almost there, I could use a drink.” Tom laughed as his body heaved, begging for air to enter his lungs.

“It’s a two-minute walk but we’ll need to wait for Emma. She has the tickets and I’ll have to name drop so we can get barrier.” I breathed, placing my hands on my knees as I gasped for air with a smile.

“You are one of a kind aren’t you Y/N.” Tom grinned as I looked up at him from my defeated position.

“Mr Holland, what  in the world do you mean by that?” I let out a schoolgirl’s giggle and silently kicked myself in the arse. I’d known this handsome man for no less than three hours and was slightly tipsy but that was beside the point. As I stared into his eyes, my heart began to burn with a feeling I hadn’t ever felt before.

“What I mean is, you don’t meet a girl like you ever Millenium. You’re unique and funny and seem to have the coolest life. I don’t want this night to end. Ever.” He replied. My cheeks flushed with an unknown feeling. My heart was fit to burst and I finally had the strength to straighten myself into an upright position.

“I’ll have you know that the night hasn’t even started yet. Our little group is on our tail so we’ll be in the gates where our night will begin in a matter of minutes.” I smiled. He stared back at me with a mixture of relief and happiness. “And this is completely off record, but when the night officially starts, I don’t think I’m going to want it to end either.”

He let out a breathy chuckle and took my hand in his as the group caught up to us. Alannah and Harrison were snuggled closely together thanks to Harrison’s arm perched around her shoulder. She sent a giddy smile my way and my heart exploded with pride. She had truly grown up now.

Our group seemed to be louder than the whole queue combined and it was no different when Emma flashed the tickets to gain us entry into the beautiful park. I had to become a storyteller to try and convince the lovely security man, Declan, to let us in to get barrier, but it turns out I didn’t have to.

“L/N? As in your mother is Y/M/N? Christy has you all sorted don’t worry. Take it as the babysitting money.” Declan smiled at me. I let out a laugh and thanked him graciously before he led us into the park for prime standing room.

“Whatever you need, just ask. Drinks are free. Christy’s orders. I’ll grab yous all some pints and I’ll be back in a few.” Declan smiled. We all shouted our thanks and stood to wait for the band to come on.

The 10 minutes came and went. Soon enough Aslan’s set began and I truly had an out of body experience. Tom kept his arm gripped around my waist as the set went on. I felt warmth and safety with his arm around me. 

“Oh my god, this is my favourite song!” I let out a loud yell as the chords of their song Crazy World were heard out of the speakers. Tom laughed as I wiggled out of his grasp to down my pint and start dancing. Everyone in the park could feel the cosmic energy that the band emitted as they played their most famous song.

Tom joined me in my dance, spinning me around and acting the eejit as I screamed the lyrics at the top of my lungs. When we locked eyes through our hazy, adrenaline-induced vision I felt like home could be anywhere as long as I saw his eyes.

“What would you do if I kissed you right here, right now?” Tom shouted over the noise as my breath caught in my throat. My mind went completely blank as I let my ‘fuck it’ mentality kick in. I did what any good Irish girl would do. I kissed him. Pure. Bliss.

In that very minute, Dublin became even fairer. And I had never felt more alive.

[dustedmagazine]

Listed: Jeb Bishop

Photo by Peter Gannushkin

Trombonist Jeb Bishop lives in Boston, where he is an essential contributor to the local improvising music community. But he has been active, locally and internationally, on various scenes since the 1980s, when he played various instruments for a handful of rock bands in North Carolina. Between 1992 and 2012, he was an essential participant in Chicago’s revenant improvisational music community, during which time he established enduring relationships with Weasel Walter, Fred Lonberg-Holm and Ken Vandermark. After a few years back in North Carolina, he relocated to Boston, but since the 1990s he has also spent considerable time playing with European musicians. Jeb Bishop Centrifugal Trio (Astral Spirits), his most recording as a leader, is a completely improvised session with a German rhythm section of which Bill Meyer wrote, “The trio’s music is freely improvised, but their shared commitment to linear development and bold expression makes it sound like one very solid set of composed tunes.” Bishop has also made great records in the past year with Clucas / Bishop / Smith / Crane, Blonk / Bishop / Smith / Walter, and Cutout.

Here’s a selection of things I’ve been paying attention to, or returning to, since the beginning of the COVID era:

Buddhist Chant: A Recorded Survey Of Actual Temple Rituals — (Lyrichord LLST 7118)

Two-LP set of recordings of chants from Buddhist temple services in Kyoto. Beautiful graphic design. I’m not sure what it means for me, in my living room in Boston, to listen to something like this so removed from its functional role in a completely different cultural setting. But I like to put the track “Chanting of Morning Services” on in the morning while having tea. The accelerating bell ringing at the beginning of that track always reminds me of the guitar at the beginning of “Liars Beware” by Richard Hell and the Voidoids.

Sonny Rollins/Don Cherry/Bob Cranshaw/Billy Higgins — Complete Live at the Village Gate 1962 (Solar)

Music from the year I was born — a minor fixation of mine. In a certain mood, I feel like you could raise the same question (see #1) about this. A project for the upcoming winter is to do some detailed side-by-side listening to this and the Miles Davis Live at the Plugged Nickel box. My sense right now is that the dramatic contrasts in this are more pronounced than in the Miles box. There’s something about both of them that makes me think of the musicians as dramatis personae and the music as a constantly unfolding stage production. For years I’ve been trying to find the key to emulating Don Cherry’s approach to soloing in this kind of context, but I don’t feel any closer to figuring it out. As Steve Lacy says about Cherry in Derek Bailey’s book Improvisation: “His playing was really free.”

Mia Dyberg Trio — “Ticket!” (Clean Feed)

Mia Dyberg and I played together as part of a group during an evening of improvisation in Berlin in late September 2019. I got this CD from her then and have been listening to it on and off since. I like it when people find a way to make shorter, focused tracks in this music (this one has 14 tracks), maybe because I am not good at that. I also like the sense of development over the course of this CD.

Assata Shakur — Assata: An Autobiography(Lawrence Hill Books)

The cops and FBI tried to do to Assata Shakur what they did to Fred Hampton: murder her for being a radical Black political activist. Fortunately they didn’t succeed. But this book is about much more than that – it’s a wonderfully written story of an American life from early childhood on. There’s focused, justified rage at the injustice of our racist society, but there is also a sense of hope, beauty, and even humor.

Rainer Werner Fassbinder — Berlin Alexanderplatz

A lockdown winter is a great time to catch up on Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s 14-part made-for-TV epic. The last episode is a mind-bending feature film all by itself.

Farida Amadou — 00:29:10:02 (19 mars productions)

00:29:10:02 by Farida Amadou

I got to see Belgian bass guitarist Farida Amadou play several sets in September 2019, at festivals in Antwerp and Mulhouse. Her recent solo release is raw and fascinating.

Tashi Dorji — Stateless (Drag City)

Stateless by Tashi Dorji

This is every bit as great as everyone is saying. If you’ll excuse the humblebrag, I’m proud to have helped put together the program of Dorji playing solo, followed by Paal Nilssen-Love’s Large Unit, for a show at King’s in Raleigh NC, when we were living down there a few years ago.

Werner Herzog — Herzog on Herzog: Conversations with Paul Cronin (Faber and Faber)

300 pages of interviews with the director. Some amazing stories and provocative thoughts about his craft (he dislikes being called an artist)

Eliot Cardinaux / Our Hearts as Thieves — “What the Wildflower Witnessed”

I met pianist/poet Eliot Cardinaux not long after moving to Boston. We did some playing together and, since he was living around the corner at the time, some good listening/talking sessions. I’ll confess that combining poetry and improvised music usually raises a red flag for me, which makes me admire all the more the strength of the solutions Eliot has found. I think his success at it comes down to the fact that his sense of how and when to deploy poetry in a musical situation is governed by his improviser’s sense of form, timing, and timbre. (His liner notes to Our Hearts as Thieves also address the question.)

Anyway, these two CDs and Around the Faded Sun, a collection of poetry (some of which shows up on the CDs,) are, taken together, a wonderful showcase for his work, or introduction to it. Our Hearts as Thieves is a really distinctive set of free improvisation, while A Living Past features his compositions, looking back in a way to his previous involvement with some part of the NYC jazz community. These recordings feature bassist Asger Thomsen, who also appears on the Mia Dyberg Trio CD.

[professoruber]

A swapped place in Sweet Jazz City Chapter 1: Masks and Faces (Epithet Erased Fanfiction)

Inspired by the Role Swap AU created by @spliinkles.

Synopsis: We all know the stories of Sweet Jazz City, people did things and other people reacted to those things. However what if places were switched? Banzai Captain Molly prepares for her first great heist while rambunctious twelve year old troublemaker Giovanni sneaks into a the Sweet Jazz Museum after hours.

Prologue: https://professoruber.tumblr.com/post/189820483268/epithet-erased-role-swap-au-fanfic-a-swapped

Chapter 1: You are here

==============================================================

Giovanni couldn’t believe it, real life criminal stood before him. He had a million questions to ask them and hoped they’d be impressed by the diabolical vandalism he has committed. Through his sheer joy he manages to get through a few words of excitement.

“Wow, criminals! Awesome!”

==================================================================================

Earlier that day….

==================================================================================

Detective Sylvester Ashling stood before the crime scene, analysing it with investigative genius mind. The crime had been committed without any alarms, the culprit or culprits having gotten in from cutting through the roof while somehow not alerting anyone or any security.

And while the good detective would never admit it, even he was mildly puzzled by this.

“So, what do you think detective?” questions the stressed gallery curator, who has been spending all their time since the robbery alternating between cooperating with police and apologising to wealthy patrons.

“Well it’s about time I was brought in to bring an end to this caper. Behold as I unleash the powerful mind of a master investigator” He answers dramatically, somewhat reassuring the curator.

He returned to considering the circumstances and events this this criminal act, all while absentmindedly swinging around his yoyo. The thieves in question got in from the roof, and by that he means burst through. The cracks are visible and it seems like they simply forced their way down by sheer weight pressure, something which would’ve logically caused much noise and alerted even the most asleep night guard. 

But security cameras showed all nightguards were doing their jobs, and neither security guards nor cameras recorded any unusual noises.

And then there were the teddy bears, these toys were left in place of these very expensive statues. They have already been taken in for examination but so far, no noticeable traces evidence could be found on them.

This is not the first time such an event has occurred. In past months alone there has been a variety of bear theme crimes, many committed in areas with high Banzai Blaster activity.

But as Sweet Jazz City’s most brilliant master detective, or at least that’s what he always called himself, Sylvie was sure he would get to the bottom of this in now time.

He gave a laugh which most definitely sounded awesome and showed his masterful genius and did not sound like clown laugher in anyway, which drew a few stares from others.

These criminals will rue the day they decided to commit crimes in the notice of Detective Sylvester Ashling.

==================================================================================

Dr Percival King stood admiring the fine exhibits of the prestigious Sweet Jazz Museum, honoured to be attendance of the fine work of noble historians. Truly there are few greater pursuits than that of knowledge, an ideal with Percy took to heart.

As a criminal psychologist her days consisted of long hours of analysing the sickening debauchery and vile criminal minds of her patients. Hers’ is a dangerous road yet she has chosen it nonetheless.

As she walks around examining these exhibits her attention is drawn to a tour group of children being led by two museum staff.

“Ah, I see that this museum makes sure to spread its knowledge to aspiring youths. Very excellent” she compliments to no one in particular as she was over to get a closer look.

The tour itself was fairly standard and admittedly lacklustre at time, however a notable occurrence was the information on the ‘Arsene Amulet’, a mysterious artefact capable of stealing Epithets.

Such an item would catch her attention both for her research into if a person’s Epithet affect their criminal capabilities as well as that such an item would likely come under threat of theft, and as such studying it would provide an excellent resource in delving into the dark motivation of criminals.

She respectfully waits for the tour to be finished and for the pair of museum curators to be free before approaching them.

Walking up to the young woman she believes was called Mera, Percy launches into introductions and explanations.

“Good day miss museum curator. I was hoping to discuss a hypothetical partnership with the Sweet Jazz Museum in order to further my research into the minds of the criminal element”

The museum guard in question looked caught off guard “Wait… what are you talking about? Who even are you kid?”

Percy looks somewhat embarrassed at her own forgetfulness “Uh of course. I apologise, I have not introduced myself. I am Dr Percival King, criminal psychologist residing in Sweet Jazz City” she explains matter of facty.

Mera meanwhile still looks confused and also doubtful “A psychologist? Really? Sure kid whatever you say, now did you need something”

“I can assure you I am a registered psychologist, as impersonating a professional would be a severe offence” As Percy hands Mera her business card and qualifications, she briefly notes Mera had a nervous reaction to the mention of impersonation.

Suddenly the other tour guide bursts into the scene and shouts “Greetings apprentice Mera and teenager I have never met!” He catches sight of Percy’s qualifications causing his eyes to go wide “Ah a psychologist I see. Greetings Dr Percival King, I am Indus Tarbella, the man whose Epithet is BARRIER!” He suddenly proudly shouts and flexes as his sentence finishes while he also shows off his barrier.

Percy merely nods in greeting “It is a pleasure. With your permission I seek to extend my research to that of the Arsene Amulet which I heard will be displayed in the Museum”

Mera looked startled at the mention of the Amulet, but kept her cool mostly “Uh… look ‘Dr King’, as much as we’d LOVE to assist in growing your bright young mind, I am afraid that we will be much too busy tonight with… museum work… for any ‘psychology research’ to be done”

Indus looks saddened by these works but nonetheless agrees “Indeed my apprentice speaks truthfully. Are work will take us to great lengths in the coming nights, am I am afraid we must tearfully stand in the way of your quest of knowledge”

Percy was disappointment but not upset “I understand, please allow me leave my details with you before I take my leave. And with that I bid you both good luck in dealing with the inevitable assaults on the sanctity of learning by the many vicious thieves who will no doubt be on their way here”   

Despite the sincerity and non-accusing nature of Percy’s words, it still causes a great deal of alarm in Mera, who begins waving her arms around in a panic “Thieves? Who said anything about thieves? What do know kid!” Her tone shifts rapidly from fear to accusing and back around again. Causing Indus to come in to comfort her and calm her down.

Percy takes some moments to analyse Mera’s reaction but otherwise seems unperturbed by the outburst.

“I apologise for my lack of explanation, I simply assumed you were already aware. As someone who has studied criminal psychology for a number of years now, I have come to find an understanding and pattern to their actions. An artefact such as the Arsene Amulet being placed in a museum would attract many opportunists and scalawags seeking the notoriety and validation that such a theft would be assumed to entail, of course their broken vile minds are unable to comprehend that crime leads to nothing but suffer, but I digress. With crime rate increasing and many of my disenfranchised troubled peers flock to criminal dens of debauchery such as the Banzai Blaster”

Percy looks to her personal belongings “it is for those reasons why I always carry this” she begins to motion to a real ass goddamn sword which she is carrying, causing another startled reaction from Mera and a look of amazement from Indus.

“Is that...?” Indus asks with a tone of wonder. Percy nods and confirms “Indeed it is. But do not be alarmed, I assure you on my honour as a psychologist that I am both fully trained and licenced to wield such a weapon and am prepared to only use it for the purpose of self-defence”

Indus and Mera both stare at her for a while, Indus is the one to break the silence with a request “Please remain here young psychologist, while me and my apprentice talk over there”

Both Indus and Mera scuttle off to a corner to talk, while Percy stands there politely waiting. After a while they return.

“So… look here’s the deal kid. We thought about it and with all these threats of thieves and stuff around, it might not hurt to have another ear in the museum. Just so long as you stay in the offices while we’re busy” says Mera, to which Indus smiles which prompts Mera herself to give a small smile.

Indus pats Percy on the back “It is our honour to support the troubles of a young scholar such as yourself”

Percy has a look of gratitude “As a fellow academic I thank you. And you have my word that I go over my research away from your work while you are busy. And also, that I will make sure to report any suspicious behaviour to you”

==================================================================================

Meanwhile across town Molly had just finished stocking the last of the shelves with the new toys she had made. Her face plastered with false joy for the sake of the annoying customers which just love to continually interrupt her stocking with obvious and meaningless questioning.

“Right over there, sir” “No need to worry sir” “What can I for you sir” “Sorry sir those coupons are for other competitors” “I’m sorry we failed to meet your satisfaction sir”

These are some of the phrases she has trained herself to repeat without thinking since she was ten. Even if her main job was filling her dad’s place as the toymaker, she did still have to deal with customers often, and Lorelai just loved every chance to outsource her own work to Molly.

False smiles and resisting the urge to hit people who deserve it so much has been Molly’s life. She would’ve gotten crazy by now if she didn’t get a chance to be herself around her friends, and by friends she means fellow criminals.

Stocking the last shelf, Molly proceeds to make her way to the counter, stopping several times to deal with customer, all while she retained the same level of faux cheerfulness that is expected of those in retail. She walked steadily forward in the heels she swapped out her working boots for, as her mother has always made sure Molly knew to keep up appearances when in working among customers.

“All selves are done Lorelai and my shift is over. I’ll just be clocking out and heading back to my apartment to get ready for night school now” Molly doesn’t wait for her sister’s response and instead simply takes her leave, clocking out and letting another staff member know just in case Lorelai wasn’t paying attention. With their mum still probably off discussing business deals across town, it would be up to the hired staff to keep an eye on Lorelai for the night, Molly gave a silent prayer for their continued relative sanity.

She takes off her apron and places it in a small back closet of the store and continues outside in her simple green dress after having her nametag placed in her bag, nothing about her would make her stand out but anything other than a normal woman. The special devices for the heist which she has made on the side were store safely to be ‘collected’ later. Having to juggle her legitimate and illegitimate work was tough but her first job as a Banzai Captain was worth it.

Making sure to get to the bus stop before it gets too dark, she rushed to the nearby bus stop just in time to catch the next one to her apartment.

She sits down and crosses her legs, looking like just any other passenger. And just like any other passenger gets up and calmly walks from the bus and to her stop when it is called.

The rest of the walk to her apartment is simple as she wears a mask, the mask which she has trained herself to wear for almost a decade. Token girlish giggles at compliments and flirts, smile at passersby, one foot forward at a time. Her mum had always ‘encouraged’ her to act as expected and in public nothing about Molly Blyndeff deviated from what one might expect a young woman in both life in the retail world would act.

She buzzed into the apartment complex, waving and smiling at any of her neighbours who by chance were also out and about across the building, even the rude ones. She gave a final token giggle and “Thank you” to the older lady who lived down the hall who had just told her that the heels she wears everyday look particularly nice tonight. She didn’t have anything against the old lady and she did seem perfectly nice to Molly, it’s just that Molly just barely had the energy to deal with anyone after work.

Entering her room with a smile which immediately dissolves the moment the door is shut, Molly collapses into her small bed. Finally feeling the effects of all the energy, she has expended across the day in wearing her mask.

 She just lays there for a while. Not moving. This is one of the few places she can still act herself, its why she worked so hard to get this tiny one room apartment, with the only attachment being a small walk-in closet sized washing room.

Getting up slowly she squeezes into the washing room and splashes some cold water on her face before taking off her dress in favour of some jeans and a purple singlet along with her favourite woolly jacket pulled over it. A cute mildly bear themed head band is snuggled into place among her hair as she takes out her retail heels in favour of criminal sneakers.

Going through her possessions to make sure tonight would go according to her plans, her eyes briefly falling to the smudged-up picture of her family, back when her dad was still alive.

It had been cried on, torn apart and put together again dozens of times and the damage showed, yet despite all this it was one of the few things Molly could see with complete clarity. 

In the picture her dad was alive and holding her mum’s hand. Molly and her young sister both stood between them and Molly had a genuine real smile on her lips, a rarity as the years went on.

“I’m sorry…” she said, and unlike her trained response to customers, this apology came from somewhere else.

Sighing, Molly tucked the photo deep under her clothes, out of sight and out of mind.

What happened all those years ago is irrelevant, all that mattered to Molly tonight was the heist. Night school had simply been a cover for her work with the Banzai Blasters, once Molly may have been uncomfortable with the lies but in the tightly controlled Blyndeff Household she quickly realised that it was the only way to survive.

Refreshed and ready for the night, Molly flashes a wicked grin as she got her bear claws, a literal bear life hand attached to a stick which she can use for self-defence if need be. As well as her pair of hand claws for climbing. Stuffing them into her back for now to avoid unneeded attention.

From the moment she exited her room the mask re-established itself naturally. She walked down the halls, briefly stopping to make some polite small talk with the old lady down the hall due to Molly now having more energy to deal with people.

Soon she returned to her walk. Heading down the streets of the town and towards the building where her night class was allegedly taking place. Her mum’s frequent insistence on keeping up appearance even through tragedy plays through her mind, making her work with ease and an aura of normalcy.

The cute smile of the young woman would seem perfectly normal to those passing by her. And yet a small tint of a maniacal grin itched itself ever so slightly into it, as Molly prepared to take one more step towards freedom.

==================================================================================

Molly sat in the passenger seat of the van, her friend Sound Phoenix, real name Phoenicia Fleecity, sat in the driver’s street. Molly took a moment to look at herself in the small car mirror, her new Banzai Captain uniform and cape caused a real smile to come to her face.

She reminded herself that while in this yellow uniform she wasn’t Molly Blyndeff, the hardworking and cheerful daughter of a respected businesswoman, she was Bear Trap, dark hearted criminal and newly minted Banzai Captain.  

She still remembers the thrill of finding out about her promotion. Her old captain Gorou Shimizaki had been promoted to Banzai Vice Principal despite admittedly not being the most competent individual, thanks in large part due to Bear Trap’s role in the heist of several expensive statues.

Afterwards he took her aside and told her that as his first act as Banzai Vice Principal was stealing a bunch of donuts for himself. She wasn’t sure how that was relevant to her but then he also mentioned that while he was eating those donuts, he thought about all that she’s done to help him and recommended her promotion.

No matter her opinion on the abilities or intelligence of her old captain, she was undeniably thankful to him for that. Being a member of the Banzai Blasters was one of the few things which was truly hers. Rising up the ranks of this pyramid scheme was her way to freedom.

The van pulled up in a hidden spot near the museum, any noise which may have come from it having been muffled by Bear Trap’s Epithet.

Sound Phoenix was left behind in case of need of a speedy get away. The rest of the Banzai Blasters proceeded with their captain while making sure to stay within her noise cancelling field.

They kept the dark sidelines and eventually snuck to the back wall of the building. Molly’s hand claws were may specifically for this kind of obstacle. She had also made sure to use the time she was suppose to be making toys in order to craft several more hand claws for her minions, it was hard but worth it.

The team of thieves proceeded up the wall and using a map they had found online of the semantics of the museum, they walked over to the entrance area, deeming it the best place to begin their search for valuable items to steal and be most alert of any potential dangers.

Sawing a hole in the roof took some time but Bear Trap’s epithet made it so no one could hear it happen. After several silent moments it was done and carefully placed out of the way as they begin lowering themselves with a rope.

Night Fright, also known as Molly’s friend Trixie Roughhouse, remained on the roof to keep watch of any potential dangers.

The rest of the Banzai Blasters entered the Museum along with their leader.

“Alright girls. This is the Sweet Jazz Museum. Now all that’s left to do is stick to my plan and commit all the crimes” she said with a wicked grin which was soon shared by her minions.

“Alright first let’s search this area…” Molly’s voice soon trails off as a young boy with a brush of pink hair atop his head suddenly popped out from behind a desk.

Her mind raced with panic as she rapidly pondered what this child was doing here this late. Where were his parents? Did they abandon him? Did he run away? Is he hurt? Will he yell for the staff? Are his parents the staff?

In her panic she barely noticed she had dropped her muffling bubble and now the silence which filled the room came only from the surprise and shock of those within.

She braced herself for the child’s screams which would no doubt begin once he realises that he’s alone at night with a group of dangerous criminals. She is about to move forward to silence the inevitable screams when to her renewed confusion his face begins shifting not into one of fear but into one of amazement and wonder.

“You’re, criminals! Awesome!” He said with a smile. Bear Trap…. No,… Molly paused in her place, unsure of how to respond to that.

[littlemisssquiggles]

RWBY Musings #81: The Queen of Thieves. What if…Weiss Schnee will have to defend her family against Robyn Hill in the next episode?

Anon-ninja asked “Do you think Oscar might train with ironwood in the next episode? Maybe ironwood will eventually question him in private? That could be used ass a way to get this boy back into the story”

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Squiggles Answers:

No; not this family, sadly to say…

I mean the other one we don’t like to talk about.

This was originally just going to be just an answer post regarding my favourite best boy: Oscar Pine, however along the way it turned into a short musing post sharing this squiggle meister’s thoughts and theories for next episode, especially where Weiss is concerned. I don’t usually muse about the Weiss-cream but it’s actually an interesting small headcanon. 

Missing Little Prince

But before I get to talking about Weiss. Let’s talk about my boy again, just to answer the anon-ninja who asked me this question. If I can be honest with you anon-chan, I actually hope that's not the case. 

While I'm eager for Oscar to at least appear once next episode (like possibly in another memory flashback courtesy of Ruby to highlight the conclusion to her brief talk with Oscar from V7CH3), I honestly would better prefer for Oscar's training with Ironwood to be its own episode since Oscar could honestly use his own focus episode at this point.  Following his treatment during V6 and his treatment in the recent episode of V7, I am seriously very tired of the Writers overlooking him. Not saying that to sound disrespectful in any kind of way or to rag on the Writers but… I really need to ask---is Oscar a character or not? More than that; is he REALLY a part of the main cast and hero team or not? 

I’d like to think of Oscar as being in the same class as JNR. He’s part of the deuteroganist group whose story and development is just as important as our protagonist team. Or at least, it’s supposed to be?

 But I’m not sure anymore. I understand that good, exciting things were promised for the precious freckled farm boy turned little prince for this volume and while I’m trying my goshdarndiggity hardest to be as patient as I can be in anticipating that, apologies but my patience was surely tested last episode and it made me think back to V6 where I had a similar experience with Oscar’s story---anticipating him having a great season only for it to fall flat in the end with his overall treatment somehow being worse than V5. At least that’s how it was for me. Not speaking for all Pineheads here. This is only my opinion.

That being said, giving how the story went down last episode and given that CH5 was written by the same CRWBY Writer---Eddy Rivas---who mentioned that CH4 was his ‘baby’ chapter too, I have a feeling that we’re more likely to have a direct continuation to plot points established in that episode.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Men On Mission

Now that our heroes have been rewarded their huntsmen licenses and were shown viewing the mission board at the end of the last episode, I feel like the next few episodes---CH5 to CH7 or just CH5 and 6---will be its own little mini-arc; just like how Brunswick Farms was its own little mini-arc back in V6.

I’m curious if the next few episodes might showcase our heroes going on missions around Solitas according to the mission board highlighted in CH4. I want to pay especial attention to the Solitas Mission board since it might provide a clue as to where JNR_RWBY might be next episode. 

Okay, so according to the Mission board: there are two escort missions and two perimeter defence missions that are open. The remaining two missions: Search and Rescue and Bounty are stated as “In Progress” so I’m assuming that those two missions already have huntsmen assigned to them.

I’m curious to know if that’s the mission that General Ironwood discussed with Clover beforehand.

Before Ironwood met with JNR_RWBY, he was last seen discussing something with Clover where he mentioned that he needed him on the ground while warning him to be subtle since if the people saw too many huntsmen around, it might attract trouble with the Grimm.

Speaking of, can I just take this moment to address how much Ironwood has grown here? I found it really ironic hearing Ironwood discussing subtly and the attraction of the Grimm with Clover since I still remember that this was the same man who wanted to bring the full force of the Atlesian Army to Vale and went behind his own colleague and fellow headmaster of many years to do so. You know what that’s called? Growth. It’s just a nice little parallel and call back to V2 that I appreciate.

So yeah, I’m assuming that Ironwood must’ve deployed Clover down in Mantle specifically to investigate what happened to Forest. 

Ironwood told Clover not to take Marrow since he’s probably not the most subtle or discreet of the team. Poor good boy. So I’m guessing that Clover must’ve taken Harriet instead since she was absent along with him in the end. 

Pfft…I almost want to make a wise crack about Clover taking Harriet as his mission partner for good luck since…y’know…she’s based off the Hare from the Tortoise and the Hare fable and y’know…rabbits represent good luck and all that jazz.

Anyways I’m going to assume that Clover and Harriet were deployed to one of the missions on the Board. Probably the Search and Rescue one since it’s slated as in progress. Since Tyrian has been confirmed to be targeting public leaders who speak out against Atlas, I’m curious if another public leader was reported missing in Mantle and Clover and Harriet were tasked in finding them and rescuing them if necessary. That’s pretty my hunch in regards to that.

Resuming talk about CH5, since the thumbnail for CH5 highlighted Robyn Hill making her debut next episode, I'm assuming that it'll continue from where CH4 left off. As I said, CH4 ended with the heroes taking up missions in Solitas.

We know that Jaune already accepted one of the Escort Mission with the pre-schoolers. That leaves the remaining three open missions on the board to be divided between Ren, Nora, Blake, Yang, Weiss and Ruby. 

Elm also hinted that one of the Perimeter Defence missions involving a lose Sayber needing two huntsmen for the job. 

So that leaves me to believe that the second Escort and the second Perimeter Defence mission on the board will probably require 2 huntsmen each depending on their difficulty level. 

That being said, here’s my squiggly theory for the next two episode mini-arc:

CH5 will be another mission-focused episode with JNR_RWBY each deployed on separate missions across Solitas. Since Jaune will be down in Mantle with his respective escort mission, my hunch is that Ren and Nora (Flower Power) will be joining him down in Mantle since they are the two who will be designated to tackle the Perimeter Defence Mission involving the lose Sayber down in the sewers.

This leaves Team RWBY. Since the season has been going really hard with them since episode 1, I’m going to take a wild guess and say that Yang and Blake (Bumblebee) are going to tag team for the second Perimeter Defence mission. This leaves Ruby and Weiss (Ice flower) with the second Escort mission which I’m going to assume is up in Atlas.

That’s my best guess.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Queen Protects King?

Okay, now this is where things are really going to get headcanon-y. It’s also the part involving Weiss.

What if …for V7CH5, Ruby and Weiss take the Escort Mission and the person who they find out they’ll have to begrudgingly escort to wherever in Solitas is none other than Jacques Schnee and possibly Whitley too

Imagine…the look on Weiss’ face if she were to discover that her very first official mission after becoming an officially licensed huntress basically involves her working for her father and little brother---to be at their beck and call as she and Ruby play huntsmen body guards to protect them and escort them wherever in Solitas?

I think an episode like this would actually be pretty damn fascinating to watch play out, don’t you think? I think it would be great to see how Weiss would react to doing something like this especially after the awesometacular way she told off Jacques last episode. Not to mention that this could potentially be Weiss’ first time seeing Whitley again…now as an official huntress ESPECIALLY since the last time the two spoke, he basically told her that her becoming a huntress was a useless career path.

How did the young Schnee boy describe it? Barbaric? Beneath people like him and his father. I wonder just how barbaric and beneath Whitley it will be as he watches his sister use her abilities to protect his life before his very eyes? He might learn a thing or two.  

Besides I’m also curious to see how Whitley would react to seeing Weiss in action as a trained huntress; honed in her skills especially when she summons her knight. I wonder how Weiss would react having to protect her father and brother as part of her job. Seriously, I really would love for an episode like this.

And y’know what? I think it could potentially even be in the cards. My rationale for thinking an episode like this could potentially be canon is because, CH5 showed Robyn Hill in the thumbnail.

Robyn Hill is supposedly RWBY’s version of Robin Hood, right? Her and her Happy Huntresses are the RWBY-verse’s rendition of Robin Hood and his Merry Men, right?

That being said; wasn’t Robin Hood’s theme that he stole from the rich to give to the poor? Wasn’t there not a scene in the Robin Hood animated film by Disney where Robin and his Merry Men worked together to rob the greedy Prince John of his richies while he was on an excursion out of his kingdom carrying a chest of gold?

Robyn Hill will appear next episode. One of the missions in Solitas is an escort mission. 

What if…and this is a big if…CH5 will involve Ruby and Weiss tag-teaming for a mission to escort Jacques (and maybe Whitley) on some kind of business mission where they’re supposed to make a deal and collect money or something and during the mission, the group are not only ambushed by the Grimm but also Robyn Hill and her Happy Huntresses who arrived to pilfer from Jacques and take back what he’s exploited from the people of Mantle?

I know this sounds like farfetched idea but maybe I could be onto something. I’d like to think of Jacques as RWBY’s version of the Prince John apart from his double role as the Wicked Queen in Weiss’ Snow White story.

 I also think it could be pretty cool. 

Watching Weiss be a huntress and protect her family.  I know Weiss doesn’t necessarily need to prove anything to Jacques or even Whitley. However, I still think it’d be pretty awesome to see her in action and have Jacques be there to watch his cage bird soar high and kick ass to protect his sorry ass. 

I more like this idea as being a nice little segway into developing Weiss’ side of things. I’d especially love an episode like this so that we can have like a follow-up on what Jacques told Weiss about her dear mother. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Weeping Willow

First of all, I know Jacques has already been depicted as the scum of the Earth but how much lower can this man sink if he resorts to using his own ‘wife’s’ disease (I’ll come back to that in a minute) as a means of guilt-tripping Weiss into coming home or worse, make her feel bad for rightfully leaving home after how he treated her last time.

What’s noteworthy about that was Weiss’ reaction to learning about how her mother might have felt upon her departure.

This is intriguing to me since…not to make it sound bad in any kind of way but, it gave the impression that Weiss actually cares for her mother’s well-being which is…kind of new to me since the last time we saw Weiss in V4, she acted rather indifferent to her mother’s existence.

We never even saw them interact. I know she talked about her in V5, giving some more perspective on how things really were in Schnee Manor. But this is the first time I’ve seen Weiss show genuine concern for her mother and I feel like if she were to see Whitley again, she might be tempted to probe him with questions about the state of their mother.

“Y’know…your mother was devastated. Didn’t leave her room for days. Y’know how she gets when she’s upset?”

Y’know how she gets when she’s upset?

Huh. That’s an interesting thing for Jacques to imply here. I know he probably mentioned that to sort of hint at the common FNDM theory that Ms Schnee is an alcoholic, like Qrow used to be. However, I feel like there is more to it than that.

The first time we heard of Mama Schnee, the impression given was that she was an alcoholic who mostly spent her days drinking her sorrows away than raising her own children. Now, according to Jacques, she sounds more like an ailing mother and that there might be more to her circumstance than I initially pegged.

Due to this, I’m now inclined to ask the question or rather, make the theory:

What if… Mama Schnee suffers with chronic depression and alcohol is basically her coping mechanism to dealing with her condition as an alternative to seeking the right medical attention and help that she needs. 

Perhaps this could potentially tie in further to Jacques’ abuse of his own wife. Like imagine if...Jacques knew of his wife’s condition and used it as a means of manipulating her further?

Like in the beginning when he was being all nice just to get her to marry him and do what he wants, he used to make his wife feel like she didn’t need help at all because to him she was perfect in his eyes. Until the bomb finally went off and now, Jacques uses his wife’s condition as ammo to guilt his children, among other things?

It’s only a small theory. Like I said, I don’t usually muse about Weiss. But since we will be exploring more of her character and backstory this season, it’d be interesting to what’s in store for us with her and her family when we get into their family affairs. 

For now, I’ll just hoping that I’m correct about her and Ruby encountering Robyn Hill and the Happy Huntresses for the first time while defending Jacques of all people. I think that could be really cool to see. But as always, for now, it’s only a theory.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 So to conclude...

Now that I’ve mused mostly over Weiss’ side of things for CH5, as for Ruby:

...Well technically Ruby has currently become the main driver for anything to do with Oscar since the subplot involving her deceit if Ironwood is shared with Oscar. 

The most I’m hoping for with CH5 as far as Oscar is concerned is that it’ll show the conclusion to his talk with Ruby from since CH3.

That’s mostly what I’m hoping for since...honestly I 'm starting to think that Oscar might be absent from the next episode again. At least, I don’t think the plot will focus on him as much as JNR_RWBY unless it’s in flashback mode. 

Similar to Brunswick Farm in RWBY V6, I feel like CH5 and CH6 are probably going to be a mini arc involving our heroes being huntsmen in the field which will lead into them encountering and possibly clashing with the likes of Robyn Hill and her Happy Huntresses.

I genuinely feel like we might not see Oscar training with Ironwood til CH7---the midseason episode. Heck I feel like we might not even see Oscar again at all in the plot until CH7. 

Then again, as I said, this is only my best assumption here and who’s to say I’ll be correct?  I’m just a humble squiggle meister sharing her thoughts and theories as per usual. Take it as you will, fam.  

More Squiggles’ RWBY Content

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~LittleMissSquiggles (2019)

[imnotcameraready]

If Villains Baked Cookies — Chapter 3

A/N: it’s been a Fuckin While, welcome back to this!!! 

Word Count: 3295

Warnings: Sympathetic Deceit y’all, curses, cursing, minor character death (not anyone significant to the storyline), suggested abuse, suggested trauma, swords, knives, panic and panic attack — if i forgot any pls let me know!!!

Pairings: im realizing that this is platonic Moceit and then platonic Analogince, with like. light versions of platonic DLAMP given that they’re a famILY

Characters: Deceit, Patton, Virgil, Logan, Roman, Thomas, AND EMILE PICANI :^) and Percy the Printer™

read on AO3!

Prologue — Chapter 1 — Chapter 2

@rebelrewriter

enjoy!

Sir Virgil Malory wasn’t exactly a knight, per se. He never liked the shining armor and giant swords, both of which would clang together in an incredibly distracting way. No, Virgil prefered the shadows, the quiet, soft leather shoes and a few small daggers hidden in his coat.

He was forced to undergo the knight training, though, as the youngest of four brothers who had all grown to be high ranking knights. His father, before he died, expected all of them to carry on his own legacy of being one of the King’s war advisors.

When he was sixteen, just before the last year of his knightly training, he was pulled aside by one of the King’s aides. Of course, his heart was beating in his neck, he was sweating buckets, what had he done to make the King mad? Why did he need an audience with the King? And the aide didn’t tell him anything until they got to the small war-planning room.

With JUST the King in it.

“Sounds terrible, being locked in a room with a royal,” Roman interrupted, feet kicked up onto the table.

Virgil shot him a glare. “It is pretty terrible when I’m locked in a room with you,” he stuck his tongue out at Roman, who made a sound crossed between a squeak and a gasp in indignation.

“Virgil? Keep going?” Thomas asked, wrapping his own cape around himself as well.

“Fuck, uh, yeah.”

“No more interruptions, Roman,” Logan raised an eyebrow and cast a side glance at him, “And get your feet off of the table. Patton would be furious.”

Deceit rolled his eyes while Roman grumbled quietly, sitting up proper. “Like Patton’s capable of being furious,” he joked, voice soft.

Thomas still didn’t like how his tongue flicked when he spoke.

Virgil cleared his throat, and Roman’s grumbling quieted.

The King had called Virgil into the room not to reprimand him, but to extend an offer. His army had enough knights who fought with swords. He needed more who could fight in the shadows. Who could sneak into an enemy’s tent and slit their throats quietly.

Yeah, it was a weird gig. Seemed to go against all of the knights’ mantra of honor and dealing with things in battle, but the King was serious. He talked a lot about how not everything could be settled out in the open and how not everything could be known to the public. I didn’t like it at all but….I wasn’t really cut out to be a knight, anyway. I said yes.

Training was, well….similar? I don’t know how much y’all wanna hear.

“Just, like….I dunno. Whatever you see fit?” Thomas asked.

He had started slowly slipping off his armor, but kept his dagger and sword strapped to his person. His choice to keep his weapons didn’t escape Deceit’s gaze, he kept noticing the god’s eyes following him. Thomas really, really didn’t like him.

Virgil just watched Thomas a little harder. He seemed to want to retaliate, but a nudge from Roman distracted him. “No more third person?” he cocked an eyebrow, leaning across both of his arms and the table, grinning cheekily up at him.

“Eh, that wasn’t gonna last anyway,” Virgil rolled his eyes with a huff, “I’m not a storyteller.”

I’m gonna skip training. But basically, uh, I learned how to throw knives, make poisons, climb walls, you name it.

My brothers knew I had a special job, but they didn’t know what it was. We lived in the same house, nearby the castle, which was technically my eldest brother’s house since his family lived there. They always asked what I was doing and what the King wanted from me but I never told. The King’d said that….anyone I told would be killed.

My brothers sucked, but I didn’t want them dead.

I was knighted when I was seventeen, and then I started getting sent out on jobs. Never with anyone, never during the day. The royal family always claimed I was a war messenger. That appeased my brothers for the most part, but the oldest one….Percival. Percy. Percy never really trusted that description. He never went after me, though, but I could always see that he just didn’t accept that.

When Patton was first being challenged by the King, I was almost sent, actually. There were only a few of us war messengers, all assassins, and I’d just returned from another job. Because I was fresh home, the King sent someone else. I didn’t know his name or anything but I remember how scared we all were when he didn’t come back.

The King sent someone else to poison Patton’s crops, and they came back. Succeeded.

News traveled fast, though, that the. Well. He was called a murderer then, and everyone was saying that the murderer’d run. Fled into the hills. And everyone was calling for the King to send a party against him.

The pressure went on for only about a year before the King caved. He said he sent a single knight against the murderer to best him in combat. The King sent me. He told me it didn’t matter how I did it, but that I just needed….he wanted me to bring Patton’s dead body back.

Virgil now looked down at the table, brow furrowed, angry at the memory. Thomas glanced up at Logan and Roman, noticing that they seemed surprised. Thomas hadn’t been asked to bring the body back, either. It might have been a custom that died with time.

Even Deceit was looking at his own lap, humming quietly along with the wind chime.

It was a tense, uncomfortable silence.

“Whew!” Thomas’ head snapped up at the sound of the side door opening. Patton walked in, wiping his hands on a towel. “Left was really milkin’ it today!”

Only Deceit chuckled. Virgil lowered his head onto the table, the hood of his cloak falling over his head. Logan groaned.

Patton seemed confused at what he’d walked into. He looked around at them all and opened his arms. “What’s wrong, kiddos? I hope that pun didn’t moove you!”

“We’re just, um….” Thomas looked up at Logan — he seemed to be the task manager.

Logan met his eyes and sighed. Despite only being here for a few hours, Thomas was already getting the hang of being here. Truth be told, he’d already made up his mind. Of course he was staying. But he didn’t want to be just stagnant. Not after all that he’d heard about the king.

“We are listening to Virgil explain how he arrived here. Are you….aware, of why he came?”

Patton grimaced as soon as Logan said “explain.” He stepped to Virgil’s side and gently rubbed his back. “Yeah, I remember when Virge arrived! He, uh….well, he was real determined!” he smiled, a little too cheerily for the topic, “But Deceit wasn’t havin’ any of that.”

“Sorry,” Deceit grumbled, “It was fun.”

Virgil sat up. “Sorry,” he mumbled, wiping his face, “I’ll keep going.”

“Don’t wipe too hard, you’ll smudge your angsty make up,” Roman retorted, voice lacking the bite it’d had earlier, “You don’t have to continue if you don’t want to.”

Virgil looked up at him and they seemed to share a moment. Patton kept rubbing Virgil’s back, also watching Roman, then Logan. Scanning around, making sure his children were okay, Thomas reckoned. He was a little surprised when Patton’s eyes landed on him, too. He gave Patton a tiny smile, which Patton returned thrice as large.

“Well, this is a good time to, uh, air out the dirty laundry. I’m gonna cut up the brownies while you kiddos talk?” Patton patted Virgil’s shoulder one last time before walking around the table, towards the kitchen area.

Thomas watched him and Deceit share a look, too, though it was a little different from the other. He couldn’t tell how. Was it an increase in tension? Determination? Seriousness?

It must have communicated something, because Deceit rolled his eyes away and glared at Virgil’s back. “I cannot pick up the story, Virgil, if you would like,” he offered.

Virgil shook his head and faced Deceit. “No, nah, it’s….it’s okay. It’s way in the past anyway! And, ‘sides, I kicked Roman’s ass harder,” the last part was punctuated with Virgil pointing to Roman with his thumb over his shoulder.

Roman, however, snorted. “The only thing you kicked, Angst-fest, was the dirt after our glorious battle!”

“You started crying over your ripped cape, but go off,” Deceit said, checking his fingernails and digging the dirt out from under them.

“You little—”

“Shut it! Alright, so…..”

The whole chosen one thing wasn’t big back then, but everyone kinda knew about me being sent off. I didn’t say bye to my family or anything, either. Those assholes didn’t care.

“Virgil! No swearing!”

“Jeez, sorry Patt.”

The King set me up with everything, rations and money and weapons and all that jazz. It only took about a week to ride here, too, since it was the first time and none of the opportunists’d settled into where they are now.

Like, you know. Logan talked about having to fight a sphinx, when he first came. I’m sure you had to fight some things like that too. Creatures and peddlers and thieves set themselves up along the path, see if they can kill the Chosen One and loot their body. Or they just wanna swindle you out of money and goods.

None of that was there when I went. It was real easy, until I got to the mountain.

I ran into Patton first, while he was building the barn, actually. With like, his hands. I didn’t think he was the warlock but, well, did any of us? I asked what he was doing all the way out here, he said he lived here. He’d just moved. He was kinda jumpy, but like, that’s valid. He asked why I was here and I told him….I told him I was here to meet a warlock. Lied, and said I was here to discuss a truce with the King.

Patton flipped out. Super excited and all.

Here, Virgil gestured to Patton. “I dunno, do you wanna….pick up the story?”

Patton shot him a small smile and brought a plate of brownies to the table. As soon as he set it down, Roman grabbed one and began nibbling on it. Logan thanked him and took one as well, and then Virgil, who was still staring at Patton.

He leaned on the counter besides Deceit, who wrapped an arm around Patton’s shoulders. He took a deep breath.

“I thought it’d be the end of being chased around. Maybe I’d get to farm and-and go back down to the town. I missed having neighbors. But, like….at that point, it’d been a year. A little over a year of working with Deceit’s magic. And, since it’s tied to preservation and honesty, I could….I could hear you lying. It’s weird, but I could hear it, but I wanted to believe it so badly,” Patton shrugged.

“That means it wasn’t a dumbass idea,” Deceit grumbled.

Patton laughed behind a hand. It seemed no one was going to mention that Deceit had sworn. Logan raised a hand, but Virgil grabbed it and lowered it slowly, all waiting for Patton to continue. It only took a few moments before his hand dropped, arms crossed in front of his chest.

“Yeah, um. That wasn’t my brightest, I’ll admit,” Patton’s voice was airier, “I let Virgil in. We sat in the kitchen. We….I think I was just rambling at you.”

“You were telling me about the chickens you were raising,” Virgil added, eyes flickering towards Deceit.

“And I didn’t interrupt. You had a knife in your sleeve,” Deceit met Virgil’s gaze.

Virgil looked down at the table and nodded. “Deceit, uh….we had a fight.”

All was quiet, Virgil staring at the table and fidgeting with his sleeves, but Deceit leaned off of the counter behind himself. “Do you not want me to show it?” he offered, sincerity clear in his voice.

Virgil stood up, head snapping up to Deceit. “Don’t,” he leaned forward on the table, nostrils flaring, knuckles tight on the table’s edge.

Roman stood up, too, and — where the fuck did he get that sword? He stuck a sword between the two of them, holding up his off hand towards Virgil’s chest.

On instinct, Thomas stood as well, drawing his own sword and holding it out to mimic Roman. “Woah, woah, calm down, everyone. If that’s—if that’s where the story ends, then that’s fine, right?” Thomas glanced up at Roman for support, who nodded, then at Logan.

Logan….didn’t move. He was just watching Patton, who was standing behind Deceit, seemingly stricken. Thomas watched, too, as Patton blinked a little. He moved slow, like how one would when approaching a scared animal.

“....Dee. Don’t do it,” Patton grabbed Deceit’s arm, tugging him back a little.

Deceit didn’t break eye contact with Virgil. Just watched him quietly, the second eyelid over his snake eye blinking slowly. Virgil was matching his glare and seemed only a few seconds away from ripping Roman’s arm away from himself.

Yet he broke first, looking down and away. The room’s tension dropped, Roman spinning around and sheathing his sword. He held Virgil’s shoulders carefully and asked if he was okay. Patton pulled Deceit backwards into his arms, holding him tight and asking the same. Thomas himself just….watched. Slowly sank back into his seat, leaned backwards. Logan patted his arm and Thomas turned up towards him.

“I hope you can excuse the tension,” Logan’s voice was quiet, probably hoping to not be heard by the others, “They have a lot of history.”

“They. Deceit and Virgil, I’m guessing?” Thomas whispered back.

Logan nodded, fixing his glasses as he glanced back up at Deceit. “Deceit is fairly tame, for a forgotten deity, but he is incredibly protective of Patton. Given that Virgil was assigned to kill him, Deceit….well. I don’t know much of the story myself, but I do know that Virgil was defeated in hand to hand combat. Multiple times. They get along fair enough now but I assume those memories are still difficult to sit with.”

They both looked up at the sound of Roman tugging Virgil toward the door. Thomas couldn’t see much of Virgil, wrapped beneath his thick patchwork cloak, but the one hand he could see was gripping Roman’s white tunic tight enough to turn his hand just as white. A murderer. It was still a little hard to process, this teenager was supposed to be a hardened murderer. Roman held the door open with his foot and carefully ushered Virgil out. He caught Logan and Thomas’ eye as he hurried out and mouthed “We’ll be back,” before letting the door close behind himself.

Now, Logan and Thomas directed their attention to Deceit and Patton. They’d shifted, Deceit sitting on the counter, Patton holding his hands tight.

“He’s very human, all things considered,” Logan murmured just loud enough for Thomas to hear, “If you’d like….I can show you to your room for the night.”

Thomas looked at him. Logan was watching him as well, blue eyes piercing behind those glasses.

He reminded Thomas so much of the librarian, Emile, but with a different level of power. When Thomas had been chosen he went to Emile, only to be held in the tightest hug he’d ever felt. There were rumors in their village, there are always rumors, that Emile had the Gift of Sight and that he’d been able to see what happened to his brother. The same piercing eyes, the same knowing gaze. They held Thomas in his spot so well that he almost forgot he wasn’t standing in the library’s foyer, about to ask Mr. Picani if he’d ever climbed a mountain.

“....I….”

“I know you’ve made your decision, Thomas. Regardless of your desire to announce it or not, there are still a few hours until dinner and you may find it best to rest,” Logan’s face folded into a small fond smile, “Besides, Patton has been arranging your room for the past decade.”

They’d been expecting him. Of course they had, if the Chosen One was a generational tradition lasting over the past hundreds of years.

The thought made Thomas’ blood boil. He’d trained for years to protect Tomasphere but the more he learned about the royal family….

He hoped Logan couldn’t see his anger. Thomas smiled back, more unsure. “Um. Yeah, sure,” he followed Logan as he rose and tucked in his chair.

“Patton,” Patton turned to look over his shoulder at Logan and Thomas, “I’m going to take Thomas to his room. Roman and Virgil are outside.”

“Wait,” Deceit’s hand — Thomas’ fists balled tightly as he saw that there were claws, claws on his scaled left arm, just like the claws that gripped his throat only a few days ago — pulled Patton’s shoulder to the side, “I can tell Virgil totally wants to finish the story, so I shouldn’t step in. Thomas’ isn’t staying, ergo the story shouldn’t be finished.”

Logan frowned at him, opening his mouth to interrupt, then closing his mouth as he tried to decipher the circle speak. Thomas watched him, deferring in a moment of fear, but Logan only shook his head. “I don’t think that will be necessary—”

“Virgil didn’t get his ass handed to him so bad, and it definitely took less than a week for him to fully recover,” Deceit rubbed the back of his neck, “It….I’m completely proud.”

“Dee, it’s okay.”

“I didn’t break his spine. He—Patton, sunlight, he—Patton.”

Deceit’s eyes flicked toward Thomas, whose fists clenched even firmer, and then down to the table. His shaking shoulders were hunched just enough for Patton to pull him back to his chest and for him to rest his head in the crook of Patton’s neck. “Now, Dee, you were different. That was a few centuries ago, and you were different. Things’re better now,” he rubbed the deity’s back, running a hand through his dark brown hair, “Things’re better.”

“I don’t know, Patt,” Deceit’s voice was muffled but held a distinct change in tone.

Thomas wanted to watch, something in him wanted to bear witness to this honest side of Deceit. He hadn’t been sure about Deceit’s sincerity since he’d met him, certain that there were backward statement and some very obvious lies, but, well, Thomas couldn’t exactly tell. The sentiment of his sorrow, though, and the tone. The tone of his voice. Was he being honest?

But Logan’s hand gripped his arm and tugged.

“Thomas. Let’s go,” his voice was firm, and Thomas couldn’t help but obey.

He followed Logan out of the kitchen and left Patton to calm the upset god. He followed Logan into a smaller room, furnished with a fully-made bed, a small desk, a wardrobe, and a candlestick in a lantern already glowing. It seemed quaint, like moving into a new room, but Thomas could already tell that it was meant to be “home.” He dropped his satchel onto the desk and looked up. There were stars drawn onto the ceiling in golden ink, an “R+L” in the corner paying homage to the artists.

If Logan expected some sort of reaction, he was sorely disappointed. Once he saw the bed, Thomas knew he was done for, as the weight of how much he’d gone through during the day finally crashed onto his shoulders. He took a few steps toward the bed, collapsed onto it and, within mere seconds, was asleep.

[classicmollywood]

Thank You FilmStruck

As a film lover, I am absolutely distraught that FilmStruck’s swan song is in seven days. The creativity and passion used when putting films on the streaming site was absolutely apparent and for a film lover, it was refreshing.

This streaming service has been great in introducing me to films I would have never even thought of watching. So, as my ode to FilmStruck, I am going to list the top 15 films that I watched on the service that touched me in some way or another (and it was so hard just to pick 15). 

So here are my top 15 films that I watched on FilmStruck that I think everyone should check out and they are in no particular order:

1. Norma Rae (1979) - Starring Sally Field, Beau Bridges, and Don Leibman

Sally Field plays a single mother who helps unionize the textile factory she works at, even though there is great risk and danger involved. 

Why you should watch it: Sally Field is so inspiring as Norma Rae! She absolutely deserved the Oscar she won for that role. Also, girl power and unionizing is awesome!!

2. Bicycle Thieves (1948) - Starring Lamberto Maggiorani and Enzo Staiola

A working-class family man has his bicycle stolen, which  he needs for the job he finally got in depressed post-War World II Italy. Thus, he takes his son on his journey to find his bicycle. 

Why you should watch it: This story is such a heartbreakingly beautiful tale. The emotion that both Maggiorani and Staiola convey really help the audience feel their pain. The film also takes you all over the streets of Italy, which is fantastic. 

3. The Crowd (1928) - Starring James Murray and Eleanor Boardman

The story of a man and woman who fall in love and get married. However, the husband’s unhappiness with their small apartment, being a small fish in a big pond, and his in-laws disapproval could be the downfall of their marriage.

Why you should watch it: Even though this film is from the 1920s, some of the concepts can be placed in any time period. The situations that the husband and wife go through could happen to any working-class family. Also, King Vidor did some amazing directing and some of the shots he set up are just spectacular. 

4. La Notte (1961) - Starring Jeanne Moreau, Marcello Mastroianni, and Monica Vitti

A married couple’s deteriorating marriage is magnified through one day and one night. The two flirt with other people and have to truly realize their personal problems.

Why you should watch it: Michaelangelo Antonioni does a brilliant job in capturing this couple and their unraveling relationship. Also Mastroianni and Moreau are fantastic as the couple. Not all movies have the happiest of endings, but that is what makes them, and this film, so realistic. Life isn’t always happiness.

5. The Nights of Cabiria (1957) - Starring Guiletta Masina, Francois Perrier, and Franca Marzi

A prostitute desperately wants love, but all she gets from men is extreme heartbreak. 

Why you should watch it: Guiletta Masina is FANTASTIC as Cabiria! Oh my gosh, she is so good at making Cabiria a sympathetic character. Also, who doesn’t love a good story about a hooker with a heart of gold?

6. What’s Up, Doc? (1972) - Starring Ryan O’Neal, Barbara Streisand, and Madeline Kahn

A zany Screwball Comedy that involves 4 plaid bags that all contain different contents. Each bag is important in its own way and causes so much confusion, it’s hysterical.

Why you should watch it: This movie is so zany. That is the only way to describe it. Barbara Streisand and Ryan O’Neal are great at comedy! And this is Madeline Kahn’s first feature film! I also never realized there were Screwball Comedies made in the ‘70s.

7. Le Samourai (1967) - Starring Alain Delon, Francois Perier, and Nathalie Delon

A professional hit man makes a hit but has witnesses. He tries his best to make an alibi for himself, but ends up getting entangled in the web of his witnesses. 

Why you should watch it: This film is badass! Even though it is French, this film has major Japanese Samurai film influences! Also, it was my first introduction to the amazing Alain Delon and he is such a fantastic actor.  

8. Shadows (1958) - Starring Ben Carruthers, Leila Goldoni, and Hugh Hurd

It’s the Beat-era in New York! Jazz is used throughout the film to help explore interracial relationships and friendships. 

Why you should watch it: This is John Cassavetes’s directorial debut and he uses jazz and jump shots to give us a feeling of the fast paced life the characters are living. Also this film was made in the late ‘50s and was absolutely revolutionary for its time. No one wanted to honestly address racism, and Cassavetes (who is a white man) is very honest about the subject. 

9. Sunflower (1970) - Starring Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni

An Italian couple gets married right before WWII. The husband gets drafted and never comes home. The wife goes on a journey to find him and realizes he is still alive, in Russia, living a new life.

Why you should watch it: This film WILL break your heart. But if a film doesn’t make you feel any emotion, then what’s the point of watching it? Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni are magnificent in this film! Also the cinematography is breathtaking. Audiences witness Italy and Russia as if they are there. 

10. History Is Made at Night (1937) - Starring Jean Arthur, Charles Boyer, and Leo Carillo

A divorcee falls in love with a French man but her insanely jealous ex-husband will spare no measure to keep her from moving on.

Why you should watch it: This film has Charles Boyer at his best. He portrays charm, silliness, and determination so well. Also Colin Clive is so sinister as the ex-husband, he is the best antagonist. Jean Arthur is vulnerable as the woman who wants to be free. There is also a great bit with a hand with a face drawn on it.

11. He Who Gets Slapped (1924) - Starring Lon Chaney, Norma Shearer, and John Gilbert

A professor is betrayed by a count and leaves his old life to become a clown. He then tries to save a young woman he loves from falling into the count’s web.

Why you should watch it: Lon Chaney will break your heart. He does such a good job at playing a clown who seems to always be smiling, but in reality is in so much emotional pain. Also Norma Shearer and John Gilbert together are absolutely electric. They are both so young and so good looking.

12. Belle de Jour (1967) - Starring Catherine Deneuve, Jean Sorel, and Michel Piccoli

A frigid housewife takes a daytime job as a prostitute. 

Why you should watch it: This movie is wild!! The housewife who won’t even touch her husband becoming a prostitute? That’s such a randomly satisfying story line. Also, Deneuve’s Severine has very interesting dreams that blur reality and fantasy. 

13. Cluny Brown (1946) - Starring Jennifer Jones, Charles Boyer, and Peter Lawford

Cluny Brown is a parlor maid who just wants to be a plumber. When she meets Czech refugee Adam Belinski, their zany shenanigans shake up an English village. 

Why you should watch it: Jennifer Jones is perfect as Cluny! She plays her with a naivety that is just refreshing and funny. Charles Boyer as Professor Belinski is great too because he is a man of great knowledge who isn’t afraid to be unconventional. It also hilarious seeing Cluny fix plumbing problems.

14. Keep Your Powder Dry (1945) - Starring Lana Turner, Laraine Day, and Susan Peters

Three very different women try to adjust to their lives in the Women’s Army Corps. 

Why you should watch it: A lot of WWII films talk about men in the army. This film is one of two that I know of that talk about the women in the army. It is also interesting to see the three different women who have to tolerate each other in such close quarters. Also, I like seeing Lana Turner in a role that is not super dramatic and her being someone’s love interest the whole film. 

15. Too Bad She’s Bad (1955) - Starring Sophia Loren, Marcello Mastroianni and Vittorio De Sica 

A young thief and her accomplices try to steal a cab driver’s cab. However, the cab driver, the thief, and her thieving family just can’t seem to stay away from each other.

Why you should watch it: Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni in a COMEDY? Yes, I will have seconds. I love their comedic timing together. Also, there are so many shenanigans in this film that are just fantastic to watch unravel. 

Thank you FilmStruck for introducing me to so many films I wouldn’t have had the access to if it weren’t for you. Thank you to all of the talented people who worked so hard to create a truly unique experience for film lovers. I will miss FilmStruck so much. 

[daz4i]

what genres i think the phantom thieves would listen to except i’m being very general bc i don’t understand specific stuff

joker - honestly anything goes, but naturally i feel like he prefers jazz, maybe the type that’s kind of mixed with rock. also showtunes i do not take criticism

ryuji - punk and idol groups. no in between (okay maybe some radio tunes here and there)

ann - bubblegum pop, cheesy radio tunes, girl bands, and the occasional punk band if they have fun songs

morgana - would vibe to instrumental lo-fi stuff imo

yusuke - classical, traditional japanese music, old niche music only he knows

makoto - same as mona + classical + indie rock + classic rock and oldies. music she can study to or reminds her of her dad

futaba - hyperpop, chiptune, 80s, experimental

haru - classical, metal, cheesy old pop and jazz

goro - canonically jazz! king. but also classical and some heavy rock and post-hardcore stuff, and showtunes but he’ll never admit it

sumi - mostly trendy pop but i feel like she’d really vibe with pop punk and emo stuff, she just needs to be introduced to it

thank you for reading. i am right about this

forget sexuality headcanons. forget gender headcanons. what genre(s) of music do these characters listen to