#bro i went to a punk show w this guy and we were making out and shit and i wanted to fuck him so bad

[genderpunk]

nsfw.

[siryouarebeingmocked]

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse: I may have activated my own trap card

Spoilers for a movie that's two months old and also out on home release.

So, Miles, Gwen, Pavitr (Spider-India), and Hobie (Spider-Punk) all seem to have modern left-wing politics, though Gwen's got edited out. Hobie's introduction specifically says he hates "fascists", which carries over from the original comics.

By the time Hobie came around, I assumed he was just another poser, cooler than the hero rival character, expressing generic leftie politics, and his punk ethos wasn't sincere.

Which is exactly what the writers wanted me to think.

Not only is Hobie perfectly sincere about being anti-authoritarian, but he's been helping Miles since before they even met. He's been blatantly stealing junk from the Spider Society to build his own universe-jumping watch, and disguising it as petty vandalism.

He even tries to talk Miles out of trying to join the Spider-Society before the reveal that Miles himself is an anomaly, and the SS (geddit?) tries to detain Miles.

When Hobie says he's against authoritarianism, he really means it.

Speaking of the left-wing politics, Miles has a "#BLM" pin on his bag. It's very visible while he sits next to his dad.

Who's a cop.

(TANGENT: A few years ago, someone drew a stupid, very bad comic where Spider-Man (Peter Parker) was a) black, b) hated cops, and c) assaulted and subdued riot cops when they asked him for help.

That the comic didn't even show the riot cops were wrong. We were just supposed to assume they deserve to be left to the mercy of an angry mob.

Also, in this comic, Uncle Ben was killed by a cop, not a random thug who Spidey could've stopped but chose not to. Which makes me wonder how that would shake out.

It's kind of weird for someone to look at a character who's about personal responsibility to an unhealthy degree, and use him to express their collectivist anti-cop terrorism fantasies. That, or they didn't think through their fantasies.)

During Spider-India's opening, Miles says "I love Chai Tea!" And Pavitr goes on a rant about how "Chai" means "tea". Later on, The Spot says he's been on a "journey of self-discovery", and Pavitr basically says he's racist.

Which is a tad ironic, because Spot is literally white. And also because Pavitr is the one making the racist assumptions.

And I personally go to a church - in England - that has a lot of non-white non-British people. Mostly Africans. And me, of course. I wonder if any Asians ever went on a journey of self discovery to South London.

And I don't just mean as a cab driver.

"Wait, SYABM, didn't you move to the UK for self-discovery?"

W-well, yes, partially.

Aside: I made the mistake of watching a Youtube video with the Chai Tea joke, and then I looked at the comments.

One guy said "tfw when Twitter users write a movie". An idiot (with much more upvotes) said "bro out here wanting blatant racism in movies".

...When the whole point of the joke is that the racism is not blatant.

It's only "blatant" if you're insufferably Twitterized. There are loads of redundant phrasings in English, like "ATM machine", and words often shift when they're adopted from other languages.

Also, "I dislike this joke" is not the same as "I want racism in this movie", when the "racism" in the movie is only there so it could be mocked.

One of the issues with putting real world movements in worlds that are drastically different - it's one of the main selling points of the franchise - is that it may seem odd that those movements exist in very similar form to the IRL version.

For example, Miles supports BLM in both his video game, and this. Which makes me think "did Trayvon Martin get shot in Florida? How about Mike Brown? Wouldn't the existence of supervillains throw things into a new perspective?"

Did I mention the giant George Floyd-style "REST IN POWER" mural to Miles' dead uncle? I cringed at that in the Wakanda Forever trailer, and I rolled my eyes at it here.

Floyd wasn't a saintly martyr, he was an unlucky violent thug.

Also, Aaron was a supervillain killed by another bad guy who nearly destroyed the city, not a cop.

Also, this is at a party to celebrate how Miles' dad is about to be promoted. Assuming Floyd died and the 2020 protests/riots also happened in Miles' universe, then it seems a tad tasteless to have a mural inspired by an anti-cop movement overlooking it, even if the party is not full of cops.

Spider-India lives in "Mumbattan".

The people who settled the Manhattan area were originally Indian. But the other type of Indian. The Indians we're not supposed to call Indians anymore.

The name "Manhattan" is even Native American.

The first permanent settlement was Dutch. Then the English got it. I guess the English could've shipped Indians to the other side of the world and eventually ceded the area to them, or maybe in this world India was a world-conquering superpower and Mumbattan is the result of...importing Native Americans?

Which would make Pavitr's complaint that "the British stole all of our stuff and put it in their museums" seem a tad hypocritical.

Of course, since I wrote all that, someone reminded me that Pavitr explicitly says the joint is in India.

"SYABM," you say, "you're overthinking this."

Yes, I am. Because the filmmakers didn't think it through. If you want to use ha-ha-funny to make a serious point, you invite examination of that point.

Miles (as Spidey) now works with his dad, though he disguises his voice. At one point, Miles tells his father that men bottle up mental health issues.

This is true (and ironic, considering Miles is hiding who he is from Jeff), but it's not the first time I've seen some progressive work try to address men's issues in an very awkward way. At least here, it's played for comedy.

Also, seems a tad hypocritical coming from a guy who wears a "#BLM" pin in the presence of his cop father.

Also, if you work the timeline, that would mean Miles was about 7 or 6 when BLM started. Which means he's gone most of his life knowing nothing else.

There was a controversy over a "protect trans kids" trans flag in Gwen's room, which was apparently edited out.

IMO, it seems a tad strange for a girl who feels estranged from everyone in her world to join a social movement, but what do I know? Maybe it was there before then.

Some people came to the extremely logical conclusion that Gwen herself is trans. Even though she's distinctly physically feminine and possibly too young for puberty blockers depending on Earth 65′s laws.

Like the "oh great, it's Liv" shippers, people are reaching really hard to see what they want to see.

Some people have said that Gwen's issues with her dad and herself seem awfully similar to the issues LGBTQIA2S+ kids go through.

Gee, it's not like, y'know, feeling estranged from one's family is a common theme in fiction about teenagers and superhero, and the whole "superpowers = minority" thing has been done to death for most of the past century.

Perhaps most notably - and clumsily - in X-Men.

I'm not saying this wasn't the intended subtext. I'm saying if it was, it would just be really, really cliche.

There's this recurring theme of people telling miles "how [his] story is supposed to go".

When he's at a meeting with his parents and his guidance counselor, the lady says his story of being a black-Latino son of an immigrant would sound great in the college application letters. His mom is a tad miffed, given that they're a) solidly middle class, and b) as a Puerto Rican, she considers herself American.

Miguel (Spider-Man 2099) doesn't want Miles in the multiversal council of Spiders, because Miles was bitten by the radioactive spider from a different universe. Which is why his local Spider-Man died, and the spider's home dimension has no Spider-Man.

Also, Miguel is fixated on "canon events". The idea that there are certain things, especially tragedies, that have to happen to Spiders, or their entire universe falls apart.

And he knows this, because he tried to take over for a version of him that got shot dead by a thug. Tried to raise his daughter.

And he watched as the universe collapsed in front of him.

So he's projecting his own guilt onto Miles, a tad.

According to TVtropes and other sources, this was actually about the people who didn't accept Miles as a replacement Spidey, possibly out of racism.

Yeah, that's real hard-hitting topical meta-commentary about a character who debuted 12 years ago. 8 years when the first movie came out.

I'd also like to point out that despite stereotypes of comic book fans, certain minority successors to banner superheros have been fairly well-received. Like Jaime Reyes, or Cassandra Cain.

(Note: I wrote that before the Blue Beetle movie came out. And flopped.)

And, of course, loads of people like Miles specifically because he's a minority Spidey, which is also racist, just from the other direction. In fact, a lot of his fans seem to forget the "Latino" part of "Afro-Latino". From what little I've seen of Miles early comics, they did actually put strong emphasis on his race.

I also suspect the filmmakers may be misinterpreting the usual successor knee-jerk reactions

as racism. If you're using an established brand name for your new hero, you're creating some expectations.

Also, you know the most popular meme about regular Spidey that I see? That Marvel's writers just keep making him suffer and don't want him to actually develop. Which would kinda make Marvel closer to Team Miguel than Team Miles.

Miles also gripes that Miguel is letting "some algorithm" tell him what to do. While I agree with the sentiment, I'd like to point out that, again, Miles supports BLM.

A movement popularized by an algorithm.

A movement made up of narratives and assumptions.

A movement which has never proven a single incident was because of racism.

During the big chase scene, we see a Spider girl in a wheelchair, aka Sun-Spider. She's from the comics. Same initiative that gave us "Web-Weaver".

Who is, of course, an extremely effete gay fashion designer Spidey. I kinda like his outfit, though the Spider-eyes with eyelashes is a little too far.

And Sun-Spider seems exactly like a character a stereotypical 90s executive and focus group would come up with. Down to the backward baseball cap.

(Turns out she's Dayn Broder's actual Spider-Sona.)

Also, while I was looking up that one black and white Spider who said "nowhere to run" (Metro-Spider, played by record producer Metro Boomin [/sic]), I found out that Aunt May's full name is "Maybelle", not just "May". TIL.

There's a bit of a double standard with this version of Spider-Woman, who's black and pregnant. -People in the movie - including Peter B - regularly point out how Peter B endangering his infant daughter Mayday by taking her along with him. But for some reason, nobody says a word about Jessica, who's an active-duty stunt-biking superhero.

Even regular motorbiking can be dangerous for pregnant women.

In fact, the movie portrays this as heroic and impressive. When Gwen sees  Jess is preggos, she asks if Jess can adopt her.

Not to mention the whole "afro and hoop earrings" thing, which seem like a bad idea for a type of hero who often gets into melee combat, even with Spider-Sense.

Yes, I'm aware that female heroes, including the Spider-Ladies, often have exposed hair. It's a genre convention. Incidentally, it was nice to see Batwoman wore a detachable decoy wig in the comics. Some bad guy tries to grab it in a fight? It comes right off.

Also, Jess doesn't have much actual character.

Being pregnant is not a character trait. In fact, her only real traits are basically "cool but stern sassy mentor", to contrast with Peter B. -Incidentally, someone on TVtropes pointed out the double standard. And when I saw the page again, a page-camper had deleted it, with no explanation.

Guess they couldn't stand someone pointing out the flaws of their waifu.

(One) Spider-UK in this movie is Muslim. I know she's Muslim because she wears a Spider-themed headdress. Note that regular Marvel 616 has a muslim lady Spider-UK, but her name is Zarina Zahari and she doesn't wear a hijabi.

(Also, she could be mistaken for Ms. Marvel.)

ms marvel.jpg

You might be thinking "wait, isn't a headdress impractical in a melee fight? Doesn't it give your enemy something to grab?" Yes, it is.

But so are Jess's earrings, afro, and being pregnant, so clearly there's a lot of artistic license going on.

Maybe it's partially tearaway, like Batman's cape.

I gotta wonder about the religious rules of wearing a head covering over a mask that *already* covers your entire head. Did she go see her imam and go "Okay, I have a really weird question..."

Come to think, Spidey is usually slim, but a lot of lady Spideys in this movie seemed to have wide hips. Including muscular ladies. Kris Anka's concept art goes really hard on wide hips. I don't know why. Stronger, faster character reads during the big chase?

I guess Spiders could be expected to have strong legs.

BOTTOM LINE:

I liked the movie overall, though the progressive bits made me roll my eyes a little. I...want to see the third one, with reservations.

[cescalr]

u kno how everyone has their own version of Reverse Falls?? well i have one of those lol but rn what im saying is: my version of the au where the pines twins swap places (grunkles for mystery,,,, u kno,,, i think its called Gravity Rises? Anti-Gravity??? I can’t remember damn) yeah i have little bits of dialogue written,,,, if only i could draw... anyway all under the read more:

[[the scene where Mabel cheats off of Dipper in class; prev the scene where Stan cheats off Ford. Flashback to convo;]]

Dipper: Look. All you need is decent grades in math, right? Just copy off me. 'S not like the teachers pay attention during exams, anyway.

Mabel: I dunno, Dipper...

Dipper: Come on. We need scolarships. Our parents can't afford two full rides to college.

Mabel: It feels kinda... fraud-y, though.

Dipper: Think about it this way, hey - those rich kids pay their way past exams to a full ride, this is no more unfair than that. Just levelling the playing field. They're cheating at life - you're just opening up opportunities.

Mabel: True...

Dipper: Anyway. Nobody gets left behind, right?

Mabel: Haha. Yeah. Who's to say I won't leave /you/ behind? [punches his arm, with a smile.]

Dipper: Hah. Very funny.

Mabel: Thanks, bro-bro. Awkward sibling hug?

Dipper: Awkward sibling hug.

[hug]

Both: Pat-pat.  

---

[[Big argument! Replaces the ford accuses Stan of breaking his machine. The conversation with the headmaster [uhhh, principal? in america?? i dunno im sorry] of the school is done w/ Dipper replacing Stan and Mabel replacing Ford bc I Like To Make Things Interesting!]]

Mabel: Come on, Dipper! I mean. Just - what kind of money is in /paranormal investigation/, anyway?

Dipper: What kind of money is in sculpting?

Mabel: That's not fair.

Dipper: Neither is you repeating our parents' talking points, but here we are. It's not about the money, Mabel.

Mabel: Well if it's not, then what's the point of you being on the opposite kind of the country to me?

Dipper: What's the point of you being on the opposite side of the country to /me/? Oh, that's right. You got a full ride anywhere you'd like, and there I am, trouble-maker, crazy-guy extraordinaire with the weird interests and stuipd belief in the supernatural. There was only one film school that'd take me, Mabel. You're the one who locked yourself into California.

Mabel: Why didn't you /tell/ me?

Dipper: I didn't think you'd want me around that much. What have I ever done, except pull down your stupid reputation?

Mabel: You can't still be on that. You know I don't-

Dipper: Still didn't say anything, though did you?

Mabel: That's not fair at all, Dipper.

Dipper: You never say anything. And here I am, always defending you. Maybe I felt we needed some space, huh? Maybe you give off the aura of wanting space. I'm not fun to be around.

Mabel: I didn't mean that. I just meant - you can get... kind of into a headspace I can't follow. I'm not - I don't believe in all your -

Dipper: Dumb conspiracies?

Mabel: Yes! Dipper, just - there's nothing down that road. You know that. You'll be -

Dipper: A laughingstock? Been there. Used to it.

Mabel: It doesn't have to be like that. You're really, really smart-

Dipper: So the only thing I can want to do is science?

Mabel: No, that's not it at all -

Dipper: He's a punk, he's headed nowhere, 'Mabel's a good girl, a real talent, smart and artistic... Dipper has the brain for a good life, but not the mindset. There's Fantartstic Academy, it's in California, so it's not too far from home, but it's on the other side of the state, a good distance away - I think it'd be good for your daughter to get independence, to find friends and a life outside of the trouble her brother brings. Mabel could have a real good go of it -'

Mabel: Stop it! Dipper, you know I don't believe-

Dipper: But you do! You always have!

Mabel: Just because you're /anxious/ doesn't mean you're right! We're okay! You're just paranoid!

Dipper: That's not fair.

Mabel: Oh, so now /I'm/ the unfair one? I get it. Things are only unfair when it affects /you/.

[pause]

Mabel: Why d'you have to do this?

Dipper: I - I have to prove that I'm right, Mabel. I have to. This stuff exists, I know it does, I've just got to find it.

Mabel: And, what? You're going to prove something people have been trying to figure out for centuries? Dipper. How can you tell me to get out of dreamworld when that's where you're staying?

Dipper: Screw you.

Mabel: Screw /you/.

---

As for other stuff;

Mabel makes the portal! It takes Dipper 30 years to activate it after she’s pushed in bc her instructions are Terrible. Partly because she didn’t understand much of it. Bill painted the whole thing as like, a monument of the arts or w/ever im still figuring that one out 

Dipper takes Grunkle Stan’s place as the person they’re sent to visit. He’s been pretending Mabel’s been in various foreign countries for years @ this point. Uses either magic/tech to create voicemails for the family, has her be bubbly but distant, w/ promises to visit that she never keeps, which. you know he feels bad about but he needs to make people think she’s alive

Dipper had a ghost hunting TV show! For like three years, then went off the air bc of low ratings. Apparently real ghosts scare people! And kill them. Who knew. Also everyone thought the special effects were bad. Whoops. Anyway he runs a tourist attraction out of Mabel’s old ‘nature living art lodge’. It makes a good haunted house during high traffic at halloween/Summerween. The entrance to the basement is in his office, which used to be one of Mabel’s art studios. Dipper took all the bill art down because he pays attention to warnings written in blood. 

Im swapping all ages here, so Dipper is good friends with Pacifica and Wendy. Gideon is ... a threat. Lee, Nate and Thompson are still in town. Tambry and Robbie are not. 

Soos is 8, Fiddleford is 13, Stan and Ford are 12. Etc. 

Because of how we’re swapping this, some people’s parents might have to become their children. I’m not a fan of that, but we’ll see. Filbrick Pines was the youngest sibling of Mabel and (Mason) Dipper. He’s not well liked by the family. And he doesn’t like his own family all that much, hence the distance between them. He likes his kids even less, though, so Gravity Falls they go! I hate that guy. 

Ma Pines may or may not come with them? Hmm.

[lordseochangbin]

Beverly Hills- Han Jisung (Part One)

a/n: i didnt realize how much i loved writing fics until a couple weeks ago so we back at it again with our biaswrecker sksksksk

this fic is going to be drama-filled? not sure how to describe it but i’m getting a lot of inspiration from high school dramas so we’ll see LOL

Sweaty palms and sunburns cannot emphasize how bummed Jisung was about this weather. Living under a cave for three years and completely skipping high school did him good but now he's back in the city, knocking on the front door to his cousin's home with a glued smile on his face.

"Jisung!" Jeongin exclaimed, running down the stairs of their mansion home to swing open the door.

"Jeongin!!" Jisung could only laugh at the sights of his younger bro, pulling him into his arms.

"I missed you dude" he whispered into the younger boy's ear before his luggage could be pulled away from his arms.

"Let me help you out with that," Seungmin said, taking a whiff of Jisung's figure before scrunching his nose in disgust. "You need a shower before our mom comes home, she would not like to see you like this"

Jisung looks down at his dirty vans and rusty jeans, "What's wrong with this?" he asked the two boys before the two look at each other.

"We'll get you a new wardrobe, just please go take a shower"

"Alright, alright" Jisung complies, following the boys upstairs he stares at the lines of academic awards and medals."So how did you two punks graduate high school early?"

Seungmin and Jeongin eye each other before turning around to show him their diploma. "Just with our wits" Seungmin winked

"Well your wits got me to come back to school, your mom literally dragged me here" Jisung groaned, flopping onto the bed that used to be his.

"She really wants you to graduate Jisung, can't you do just that? Especially after your parents.." Jeongin's voice turned into a whisper as Jisung eyed him across the room.

"Let's not bring them up Jeongin, I swear if Auntie brings them up I'm going to ignore her"

"Sorry I just-"

"It's fine Jeongin" Jisung interrupted before stuffing his face into the familiar pillow.

Let's get things straight. 

Here at Beverly there's a few different families. We have the Bang Family, consisting of son and daughter Chan and Claire. Their family owns almost all the clubs in LA. Next we have the Lee's, Felix and Minho are nothing alike however, Felix being the school's outcast and Minho being a popular dancer.  Yang and Kim's are united- the bond between the two families inseparable.

Oh, did I not mention Beverly Hills' most popular rich boy? That would be Hwang Hyunjin. The Hwang's along with the Seo's claim all the hotel businesses of Southern Cali, and their families are often known for being involved in rough politics.

Last, but definitely not least, we have the Stay family. You're the only daughter, sister having passed away at a young age. Because of this, you carry the legacy of your own last name. Oof, the pressures of an asian family. But nothing stops you from a good party, especially the big "Back to school" pool party that Chan and Claire are throwing tonight.

"Is this cute?" Claire asks, taking a pretty white swimsuit from the hangers to your attention. 

You take a glimpse at it before looking away, "Too white, you'll look like that statue of David when the museum is closed"

Claire rolls her eyes, throwing the suit in the cart. "I don't have a dick y/n, and Michelangelo definitely is not cute enough to mold my curves"

"As if you have any" You retort with a chuckle before being slapped in the back by Claire's Louie Vuitton. "Shut up!!"

You could only laugh as she walks away, shaking her ass in the air as you go for the simple yellow swimsuit. Checking the price tag, you see three digits and decide to put it back before taking it in your hands again.

"Mom and dad will kill me... it's okay" You tell yourself before heading off to the cashier's.

Jisung mutters a quick "Leave me alone" before throwing the comforter over himself again. Finally, the comforter is stripped away from his bed as Jeongin screams in shock.

"Jisung!! You sleep naked?! Disgusting!!" Jeongin exclaims, throwing the blanket back on him.

Seungmin pats Jeongin's shoulder in embarrassment before waking Jisung up. "Get up, The Bang's are having a party tonight and we've been invited. It'll be the perfect chance to get new friends"

Jisung rolls his eyes at Seungmin's proposal, "Friends aren't shit Seungmin, they're just your friend during high school and when it's over they forget your name."

"Oh come on Jisung!! You can't be lonely forever!" Jeongin pouts, ticking Jisung's sleepy figure before Seungmin could add, "Well Jeongin and I are going, so I guess you're going to be alone with my mom"

Jisung is quick to jump out of bed and puts on the nearest pair of shorts before wrapping his arms around the two boys shoulders, "Okay so where exactly is this party?!"

The booming music makes the whole neighborhood shake and sounds of chit-chat and the small of alcohol fill the air. Girls fill the pool with floaties of all kinds and drinks at every table.

"W-wait. You guys meant a real party?! I thought you geeks only went to chess comps and bingo clubs" Jisung said, "T-there's real people here. Ew."

Seungmin drags Jisung inside the crowded living room, "You clearly aren't ready for Beverly Hills High School Jisung, and that's why you need to be here”

"I'll get us some drinks, go find some open space for us Jisung" Jeongin says, running off with Seungmin.

Jisung winces at the people surrounding him, turning to the hallway before being greeted by a stumbling girl in a white swimsuit.

"Oh, oh hi! You must be new here, I'm C-claire" Claire grabs Jisung's shoulders, a burp leaving her lips before she collapses onto him.

"Woah- woah okay, okay Claire take it easy" Jisung says, grabbing her waist as he looks for the nearest bedroom. Walking further down the hall, Jisung hears a few voices and hopes to drop the drunken figure into the hands of some other people.

"Look Hyunjin! I've told you so many times, we just don't work out together" You exclaim, trying to push Hyunjin off you as he continues to suck on your neck. You fail to get his weight off him as he cages you against the bed, his plump lips making all sorts of blues and purples on your skin as you try to kick him off.

"Come on y/n..." Hyunjin whispers into the crook of your neck, "We can make this work you know?" Your calls for help are muted by the loud music playing outside but you know with enough resent you can get him to stop.

"Hyunjin, stop! It's over" You continue, trying to wiggle your way out of his grasp. Well aware of how much he chugged before, you tried to work with his intoxicated self but it didn't seem to be working.

Jisung presses his ear against the door, realizing the situation as he kicks open the door. "Hey!"

Hyunjin quickly turns around, getting off the bed. "Um, hello?" Hyunjin replies sarcastically.

Jisung is left without words the second he lays eyes on you, you're beautiful. Light beaming on your figure from a nearby window, the sunlight is casted upon you. He can’t even blink, the sight is too worthy to lose even for a second. Left breathless in the middle of the bed, you thank the lords above that some cute guy came to save the day before noticing your best friend in his hands.

"Holy shit!" You run up to Jisung and grab your best friend.

"Is she okay?" Hyunjin says, picking her up and laying her on the bed. You sniff her hair before nodding your head.

"She's drunk. I'm so sorry about that.." You turn around to see the boy in a simple white tee, shorts and a Ralph Lauren bucket hat before asking, "what's your name?"

Jisung's eyes are fixated on the floor before realizing you were talking to him. "Oh- me? Jisung" he smiles.You smile at the way his cheeks puff up when his teeth show, face resembling a cute squirrel as you shake his hand.

"Nice to meet you, Jisung" you say with a smile.

"So someone told me my sister was being dragged to the guest room?" Chan said, Minho and Changbin by his side as he glanced at his sibling.

"She drank a little too much," Hyunjin responded before Chan could send Hyunjin a nervous look. "Bro, the plan didn't work?" Chan mouthed to Hyunjin as he glanced at you, noticing your hand still tied to Jisung's.

"Dude, why are you still shaking her hand?" Changbin asked, turning everyone's attention to you and Jisung. You stare at Jisung for a moment, noticing the bit of nervousness in his eyes. Jisung's grasp on your hand tightens anxiously before you could smile at the guys, "That's because Jisung here, is my new... boyfriend!"

Minho nearly spat out his drink, "Your what?!"

"My new boyfriend" you repeated, "Now don't mind me, but I'm going to leave now.. with my new BOYFRIEND" you spat at Hyunjin's face before leaving.

"Bro, what the fuck just happened?" Chan asked Hyunjin, handing him his drink

"I-I think y/n is really calling it quits" Hyunjin stutters, lying against the wall as the guys join him.

"Don't worry Hyunjin, y/n is always like this.. I’m sure this “Jisung” kid will leave if we teach him a lesson" Minho said, patting his shoulder.

You're running to the backyard with Jisung before he could stop you, panting out of breath. Sitting down at a nearby bench, you gesture at Jisung to sit next to you before letting go of his hand.

"I'm really sorry about dragging you into that, I just needed to get out of there" You apologize

"That's alright... but just like, did you call me your..?"

"Boyfriend." Jisung's eyes pop off at the validation.

"Seriously?" Jisung points a finger at himself in shock, "Me??"

"Yes you idiot" You reply with a chuckle, pushing his hand away. 

"I know you're new, maybe we can be friends" Smiling at Jisung's shocked expression you notice a figure resting on the edge of the garden.

"Felix!!" You call out, noticed the freckled boy turn around at your voice.

"Y/N!!" He replies, running over to you guys.

"Jisung, this is Felix. I think he'd be the perfect friend for you here." Jisung looks at Felix before looking back at you again, "Are you not staying?"

You stand up before spotting Chan and Minho asking people for your whereabouts. 

"Not for now, I need to fix a mess I started, it was nice meeting you though!" You exclaim, running inside to the two guys.

"Don't mind her, y/n is always involved in some sort of drama" Felix says

"Seriously? Why would nice girls like her get involved in that kind of stuff?" Jisung asks, scratching his neck in curiousness. "Whew, Jisung" Felix says, knowing he has a lot to learn.

"Welcome to Beverly Hills High School."

[datingintampafails]

Chapter 32: Timmy*

Timmy* gave off a frat-boy kind of vibe with the pictures in his profile, a trope that has become my type. His profile did seem to be half-heartedly filled out; his hometown was just the abbreviation of the state, his employment simply said "cardiac surgery," and a couple typos.

Mostly my reason for wanting to message him, in particular, was that one of his prompts about a travel story was very obviously cut off and he ran out of characters. I messaged him saying the cliffhanger was dramatic and wanted to hear the whole story. It was a very long story, involving being in Ireland and a random person coming into his and his family member’s room. I mentioned I didn’t have anything quite that interesting regarding my travels before. We chatted more and although I wouldn’t say we had a lot of similar hobbies and interests, the conversation did flow well. He was definitely more active than I, going to the gym often and eating pretty healthy and en mass. Very much a gym bro type. I also had assumed he was a surgeon, given his position being cardiac surgery, but then learned later he was more involved in some sort of programming instead for cardiac devices, so not really cardiac surgery per se.

When we moved away from Hinge and onto text messaging, we were both mutually behaving as if we had known each other a while, and better than we did. At one point, he had asked, “are you a guy version of me?” To which, I was very aware of how little we knew about each other, which led me to respond that it was too soon to tell.

I did however confirm my place as forever the more aggressive one; I text him one day "Timmy*, when they fuck are we going out?" Not that it had been too much of a long time talking, but just that he had not yet made a move, and that we were obviously getting along and it would make sense for us to take that next step. We plan for a few days from then, a Tuesday, after work, and that it would have to be more or less played by ear because of our jobs' schedules being semi-unpredictable. My easy place, Armature Works, was chosen as where we would meet up.

Our date got pushed back slightly, as I got off on time, but he was going to be held up at work later than expected. He did however give me ample heads up, so I just relaxed at home a little longer than I would have otherwise, and perfected my outfit and minimal make-up. The day of the date, and leading up to it, I made jokes about being a catfish and that I was actually a middle-aged, fat, Russian man. I continued this while I waited for him when I was describing what outfit I was wearing so he could recognize me better with my mask on, then later added that I was still a middle-aged Russian man, but that I was still wearing a skirt and crop top. I waited for him on a bench for almost 30 minutes. I arrived on time to when he had delayed the date, but still too early apparently. Luckily, I had brought my headphones, so I just listened to some music to pass the time by.

Finally, I received a text message saying that he had parked and then that he could see me. Nothing is more uncomfortable than being seen and not seeing who is looking at you. I looked around and didn't see anyone that looked like him, so I went back to staring at my phone. Eventually, a man looking more like him appeared trotting down the small set of stairs next to me. Although he definitely wasn't short, he seemed shorter than what I was expecting, and his hairline seemed to be just starting to recede.

He was not familiar with the location as much as I am, so I took it upon myself to give him a tour of the location. Despite being indoors, and still pretty amidst a pandemic in late February, Timmy* kept taking his mask off. As a healthcare worker, I was confused and appalled; he should know better. I yelled at him every time to put it back on. Once he said, "you're one of those huh?" I almost rolled my eyes back into my head. Then he also asked me, "well when can I take it off?" to which I responded, "when we are outside and/or we sit down to eat/drink." He got a beer at one of the bars, and it was a beer that had some marijuana in it, which was an interesting choice. After having toured the whole place, it was time to split off to order our respective meals. I got my food, and a drink, and wandered over to the area I had last seen him, as he had said he was going to get a pizza. He was nowhere to be found, so I text him asking where he was. He indicated that he was over by where he had gotten his beer.

I found him and then he told me that he had ordered food from two different restaurants because he couldn't decide and also eats so much due to his athleticism. We found a spot to sit nearby outside, and it is a lovely night, we were comfortable in the fresh air. We both finally did take off our masks and started to eat.

I half-heartedly apologized for being so hard on him regarding the mask-wearing, but emphasized that I am passionate about proper mask-wearing because of my experience with having the virus and wanting to make sure to reduce the spread. He then said, "Oh you had COVID! I'm in a way glad to hear it." He then pauses before saying, "I have COVID too. My doctor said I'm asymptomatic? So I'm totally good." My eyes must have gotten the size of saucers; I leaned away from him and was looking around seeing if anyone had heard him. "Wait what?" Is all I could say. "Uh, no. Please tell me you're joking?" Timmy* stares at me confused, "I'm asymptomatic! So that means like I don't have it."

I am prepared to leave immediately. "So you had a positive test? What? Why are you here right now?" I say. Finally, he drops the rouse and admits he was kidding, but that he got me. "That was not funny. I was legitimately terrified!" So far, this date is bizarre. He mentions that because I joked around so much that I would appreciate it. I did not.

We eat our food and chat. Unfortunately, he also is a person who seems to eat with their mouth open. Another strike. Timmy* has become very comfortable around me, as he also decides to tell me another long story about the time he was "sexually assaulted by a doctor." Which was that he went to a doctor for a physical and that she had grabbed his testicles and had him cough, though the way he told it was extremely drawn out and had many mini-stories leading up to the point that was supposed to be the assault. I then told him, "I'm sorry to say that your doctor was not trying to hit on you on anything, that is a normal thing that happens with mens' checkups." This was news to him. It was obvious that he is not a well-versed healthcare worker.

Once we finished our food, I suggested we walk along the river. First, though, I wanted to drop off my leftovers in my car. We walk to it and I make him guess what kind of car I drive. He is impressed by my car and we don't linger long before I say we should leave the parking lot. He tells me that he has a muscle car, which is so random and I would never put him in a car like that. Whereas a sixteen-year-old girl might be googoo-gaga over this, as a full-grown adult, it isn't quite as alluring to have a car like that.

While on the riverwalk, I become irritated at the fact that he walks very slow. Slower than I am able to walk. It makes no sense as I am significantly shorter than he is, so my strides shouldn't be longer than his. I mention to him that he walks slow and I ask that he walk a little faster. He picked up the pace, but then slowly reverted to his tortoise-like speed over time. I tire of our uneven velocities and we take a seat on some rock benches. We chat about brief things and I suggest we walk back. Again, I battle with the paces, mention it a couple more times that I am unable to walk as slow as he walks.

We get back to the main area of Armature and take a seat in some oversized chairs. He tells me about his family and some stories about his relationships in middle school and high school, which are also drawn out and bizarre. It nears 10pm, and we are told by staff that they close at 10. A couple minutes til, I remind him we need to leave and I ask where he parked. He parked in a different lot, I offered to walk him to his car. He offers to drive me to my car. We do so and his muscle car is indeed very overly-masculine. He goes on to go through a bunch of random songs on Spotify, only playing each song for less than 30 seconds, very ADHD-like. He drives me to my car, but wants to keep me there, again showing me more songs. I'm politely just listening as he flexes on all the types of music he listens to. He tries to show off that he knows "alternative music," my preferred genre, but I point out that a lot of the songs he's playing are more "pop-punk" or just old alternative jams.

He compliments my music taste and mentions that he has noticed I am adept at knowing song names, musicians, movies, and so forth. I begin to joke that likely I am a little autistic, adding "I'm working on my eye contact," as I make direct eye contact with him. What he says next, is something that I was not prepared for, and something that still baffles me, and possibly always will. "Yeah, you do look a little retarded." Immediately, I burst out into laughter; not because I think what he said was funny, but because I am so bewildered and shocked by what was just said. Eventually, through the laughter tears I am able to get out, "Dude you shouldn't say that to a woman." He insists it was a joke and makes excuses, but I keep laughing, with my hand on the door handle just waiting for a good moment to step out. I repeat that what he said isn't cool, and eventually stop laughing long enough to say, "alright, on that note, I think I should head out." Being friendly, I still ask that he tell me when he gets home since I know he has a longer commute home than I do. I wave goodbye through our car windows.

The formalities are complete; he texts me ever so briefly the next day, respectfully I respond, knowing well I never plan on going out with him again. Then it seems we have a mutual ghosting situation, as I don't try to text him, nor he to me. This day I have another date, and after that one, I have no one that I want to communicate with as that is also a dud. All is good until a few days later when I am out with my friends in Ybor, drunk. I get a text from Timmy* saying "yo." I lament and groan and my friends ask about my reaction. I explain the situation and one of my guy friends asks for my phone. I hand it to him as he starts to text him on my behalf.

My phone is with my friend, but with my Apple Watch, I can see the text conversation and when he is responding. I start yelling "oh god please don't bring him here. I don't want to see this guy." Respecting my wishes, my friend decides to still fuck with him, but prevent this poor soul from spending money on an Uber and coming down.

My friends then send a selfie of themselves, with me not in it, saying "she's with me." I yell at them more saying, let this guy be, just ignore him. However, instead, my friend takes it a step further.

I tell my friend that he was too harsh and that I of course would have told him I wasn't interested, but a lot more mature and kindly. When later I check, understandably Timmy* has unmatched me on Hinge*, likely blocked my number. No loss there though.

[therainroguefanfiction]

🔥 ℝise Ⱥbove I̾t ◈ Chapter 011 [A Hero’s Style]

📑 Table of Contents | ◂Backward

Word Count: 2,490 ☁

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〈“It’s the very first breath, When your head’s been drowning underwater, And it’s the lightness in the air when you’re there.” Logic ft. Alessia Cara, “1-800-273-8255″〉

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The door to the nurse’s office slid open and the boy with the messy green hair stepped inside. He was cradling his right hand, the index finger swollen and badly bruised. I sat up on the bed, rising a brow at him. “The fuck happened to you?”

His gaze shot up, a blush covering his freckled cheeks and nose. “A-Ah, it was n-nothing, really!”

My eyes narrowed at him. “Pretty sure a broken finger ain’t ‘nothing’, but okay.”

“W-What about you?” he asked, softly, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. He refused to meet my gaze. “A-Are you okay, Winchester-san?”

The door slid open again and Granny stepped inside. “Can I help you, deary? What happened?”

He handed her a slip of paper, his green eyes trained on the ground. “I, umm… I got hurt…”

“Well, I can see that.” She brought his hand to her lips and gave it a smooch before having him sit down to wrap it up. He thanked her before swaying out of the room, tiredly. She glanced over at me. “Feeling better?”

“Define ‘better’,” I scoffed, swinging my legs over the side of the bed. “I could go for some tacos, if that’s what you mean.”

“That’s the best I could hope for,” she smiled, patting my arm. “You’re free to go.”

I gave her a lazy salute before leaving the room. I stopped off to change back into my uniform before heading back to class. A couple students still lingered inside, turning to look at me when I slid the door open. Didn’t anyone ever teach these brats it’s rude to stare? I scowled, grabbing my bag from my desk before leaving the room.

“Young Jen!” A woosh of air rushed past me before Toshi appeared in front of me, his large hands on my shoulders. “I was looking for you!”

“Well, you found me. And you know where I live, so.”

“Come with me, please!”

It was a bit hard to avoid drawing attention to myself when I was being dragged along by the most attention-grabbing hero in the fucking world. He led me to a small room with a couch and coffee table, where three cups of steaming tea sat. Aizawa was sitting in an armchair with his eyes closed and arms crossed.

“Please have a seat,” Toshi held out his arm toward the couch and I plopped down on the end closest to Aizawa. He sat beside me, angling his large body, which slowly fizzled out to his skeletal form. He coughed a few times before speaking. “Will you tell me what happened today?”

“With the green-haired kid? Yeah, I was wondering about that, too. A broken finger is pretty crazy, huh?”

“Jen,” Aizawa shifted, giving me a pointed look.

I shrugged a shoulder. “I don’t fucking know. One minute I was fine, the next I’m being subdued by Magic Eraser over here.”

Toshi put his hand on my knee, giving me a kind look. “You know you don’t have to keep secrets from us. You can be honest, you can trust us, we won’t judge you. We just want to help you.”

I clicked my tongue, lifting my leg to rest my ankle on my knee to remove his hand. “That’s pretty unfair, Toshi, when you have so many secrets of your own. Trust you? That’s rich considering you won’t even trust me.”

“What are you talking about, Young J -”

“You know a shit ton more about my dear old mum than you’re willing to tell, aye?” I forced a smile, standing up and shoving my hands in my pockets. “Probably about me, too. And this damned quirk. But that’s fine. I really don’t remember anything that happened so can I go now?”

The two of them exchanged a look.

“This isn’t over,” Aizawa responded, but his voice was softer than it had been earlier.

“Sure, sure.” I waved at them over my shoulder before closing the door behind me.

As I walked home, my phone started to buzz in my pocket as a new message came through. Another a few minutes later. And another. My eye twitched, already annoyed. I swear to god if Murder is spamming me again… but I knew it could only be him. I only have three contacts in my phone – Aizawa never texts me and I knew Toshi would be giving me some space for a while before trying to talk things out.

At that moment, I was overcome by a loneliness fiercer than I had ever felt before.

‘Oi, extra’

‘Dont ignore me’

‘I want a rematch’

The hell is this kid on about now? I replied, ‘U won last time bro…’

‘Its not a win unless i destroy u completely!’

I rubbed the back of my neck, ‘Im really not in the mood for this’

‘Che what crawled up ur ass and died?’

I hesitated, stopping to look up at the sky. The blue was replaced by hues of orange and red as the sun sunk low on the horizon. We’ve only talked a few times, but I felt… a bond with Murder and, right now, he’s the closest thing to a friend that I’ve got. ‘Hey… I wanna tell u somethin’

‘Oh god i dont want ur nudes’

This fuckin’ brat… ‘I said tell not show dumbass’

‘The fuckd u just call me bitch?!’

I slid my key into the lock, stepping into the silent apartment. I kicked my shoes off, pushing them against the wall so Toshi wouldn’t trip when he finally returned home. Falling onto the couch, another message came through.

‘Well r u gonna tell me or nah’

I smiled, sadly and began to tell him my story. I told him about how I got here and about the shadow man with his weird-ass warp quirk, about Gramps and how my mother was apparently a hero. I left out names and key details, of course, but I told him mostly everything that had happened over the past year. He would chime in with some smart ass remark every now and then, but I ignored them and continued to pour my heart out to this guy I had only just met a few days ago.

It felt so goddamn nice to get everything off my chest. It felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

That night, I slept better than I had since I arrived here.

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“I am… HERE!” The door to class 1-A slammed open and Toshi leaned into the room, standing on his tiptoes and holding the outside of the doorframe. “Coming through the door like a hero!”

If that’s how heroes make an entrance, count me out. It seemed to impress the other students, though, as a murmur of excitement filled the room. God, these kids are too easily amused.

“I can’t believe it’s really All Might!”

“So he is a teacher! This year is going to be totally awesome!”

“Hey look, is he wearing his silver age costume?”

“I’m getting goosebumps, it’s so retro!”

I fell onto my desk with a sigh. It’s like a bunch of little kids meeting Santa at the mall. I guess I could kind of understand it if he had powers but they didn’t, but they do. They’re no different from him, they’re just younger. I was thankful to be sitting behind Big Boobs – between her tall frame and gravity-defying hair, I was completely hidden from Toshi’s line of sight. We hadn’t talked since yesterday. I was asleep by the time he came home, and he was gone before I woke up.

“Welcome to the most important class at U.A. High – think of it was heroing 101!”

I don’t think ‘heroing’ is a word. Or is it? Scratching my cheek, I pulled out my phone, hiding it under my desk as I typed the word into the Goggle. Oh my god, the first result that comes up says the word ‘heroing’ means the opposite of being a hero! There’s also a mention of something about heroines. I scoff, earning a glare from the Peppermint that sits beside Big Boobs.

“Here, you will learn the basics of being a pro! And what it means to fight in the name of good. Let’s get into it! Today’s lesson, we’ll pull no punches!” He held out a card that said ‘battle’ in large, bold letters.

“Fight training!”

“But one of the keys of being a hero is~” Toshi pointed to the left wall as thin shelves emerged from it, holding numbered cases. “Looking good! There were designed for you based on your quirk registration forms and the request you sent in before school started. Get yourself suited up and then meet me at training ground beta!”

“Yes, sir!”

I waited until he left the room before standing up and grabbing case number twenty-one, following the throng of students as they rushed to the locker rooms to get changed. I went to the back of the room, hoping to avoid the other girls before sliding my shirt off.

“Woah, you have a tattoo? That’s so cool!”

I glanced over at the Punk Girl, earphone jacks hanging from her ear lobes. I grunted in response, turning my back to her. She muttered something about being rude before walking away from me. I glanced over my ‘costume’ before grunting in approval. Honestly, I had expected them to fuck it up, especially since Midnight didn’t approve of it, but I was surprised that they had kept it just as specified.

Black, steel-toe combat boots accompanying black baggy cargo pants with plenty of pockets for knives. A black belt with a silver skull buckle. A white wife beater, over which was a white overshirt, the sleeves stopping just past my elbows. I glanced in the mirror, putting my pendant under the tanktop before tucking the front of it behind the belt buckle. Damn, I really like this look.

I stepped out of the locker room ahead of most of the girls, seeing a few guys leaning against the wall outside, waiting. Fumi was among them, dressed in a black cloak that completely covered his body. He glanced at me when I approached, red eyes scanning my body.

“You look nice, Winchester-san.” He said, politely.

I chuckled. “You can use my first name, it’s easier. And you don’t look so bad yourself, Fumi.”

“Fumi?” he mused, following in step beside me as we headed down the hall.

“Don’t like it?” I asked, glancing at him.

“I don’t particularly mind,”

I hummed.

As the group reached the end of the long hallway, I could hear Toshi’s booming voice before I saw him.

“They say that clothes make the pros, young ladies and gentlemen. And behold – you are the proof! Take this to heart, from now on, you are all heroes in training!” His shadowed eyes scanned the crowd. “This is getting me all revved up! You look so cool! Now, shall we get started, you bunch of newbies?”

My eye twitched. Who the fuck is he callin’ a ‘newbie’? Didn’t that insult die like five years ago? We’ve talked about this, man, don’t try to be hip, you’re just gonna embarrass yourself, bro. I sighed, shaking my head. This is gonna be a long-ass day.

Footsteps came from the tunnel and I glanced over my shoulder. Is that… a green bunny? No, no, no, there’s something familiar about that costume, but what is it? Ugh, this is gonna bug me.

“Now that you’re ready, it’s time for combat training!”

“Sir!” Prep was encased in a suit of armor. “This is the fake city from our entrance exam. Does that mean we will be conducting urban battles again?”

“Not quite!” Toshi held up two fingers and at first, I thought he was flashing us the peace sign. “I’m going to move you two steps ahead! Most of the villain fights you see on the news take place outside. However, statistically speaking, run-ins with the most dastardly evil-doers take place indoors. Think about it! Backroom deals. Home invasions. Secret underground lairs. Truly intelligent criminals stay hidden in the shadows. For this training exercise, you’ll be split into teams of good guys and bad guys, and fight two on two indoor battles!”

Good guys and bad guys? That’s such a gray area, ain’t it? I leaned my arm on Fumi’s shoulder, scratching my cheek. Is anyone truly ‘good’ or ‘bad’, really?

“Isn’t this a little advanced?” Frog-girl asked.

“The best training is what you get on the battlefield! But, remember, you can’t just punch a robot this time. You’re dealing with actual people now.”

Actual people, huh? Should I avoid using my quirk? If I lose control again, there’s no Aizawa around to stop me. Someone could get seriously hurt or… I shook my head. Come on, don’t think that way. Just take a deep breath, you got this.

“Sir, will you be the one deciding who wins?” Probably.

“How much can we hurt the other team?” How villainous.

“Do we need to worry about the losers getting expelled liked earlier?” No, ’cause Toshi ain’t Aizawa.

“Will you be splitting us up based on chance or comparative skill?” Should be obvious it’s gonna be random.

“Isn’t this cape pre chic?” What the fuck is wrong with you, French Fry?

I sweatdropped. These guys are really fucking nuts, aren’t they?

Toshi held his head back, his voice strangled. “I wasn’t finished talking…” He reached into his costume, which I didn’t know had pockets, and pulled out a small notebook about the size of his palm, flipping it open as he held each side with one hand. “Listen up!”

Oh my fucking god, he wrote a script for this? “This class is a hot fucking mess…”

“The situation is this: The villains have hidden a nuclear missile somewhere in their hideout. The heroes must try to foil their plans. To do that, the good guys either have to catch the evildoers or recover the weapon. Likewise, the bad guys succeed if they protect their payload or capture the heroes. Time is limited and we’ll choose teams by drawing lots!” He held up a bright, yellow box.

“Isn’t there a better way?” Prep asked.

“Think about it,” Green Bunny responded from beside him, holding up a gloved finger. “Pros often have to team up with heroes from other agencies on the spot. So maybe that’s the reason we’re seeing that here!”

“Yes, I see. Life is a random series of events… Excuse my rudeness!”

I should really learn these guy’s names, but how can I do that without actually having to interact with them? I wonder if Aizawa or Tosh would let me see the student files… that seems pretty doubtful. Plus, Tosh hasn’t looked at me once so he’s probably still upset with me.

“No sweat! Let’s draw!”

Yup, this is definitely going to be a long-ass fucking day.

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You Monster Chpt 33

(Full story found on my ao3 under the same username. I’m no longer linking chapters because tumblr won’t show them in the search results otherwise!)

Mettaton’s parts are heavier than they look. You aren’t surprised. After all, they did pack a pretty hefty punch every time he hit you, but trying to carry all four of his limbs is nearly impossible. Beside you, Alphys is having similar troubles, trying to get his body off the ground. All the while, the robot still hasn’t decided to enter sleep mode, instead insisting he provide words of encouragement.

“You’re doing excellent, darling! Remember, lift with your knees, not your back! Atta girl!”

“This is taking forever,” Alphys groans wiping her brow. “I’m gonna call for back up.”

Pulling out her phone, Alphys taps away on the keys as she writes out a text message. A moment later and her phone chimes with a response.

“Okay, Undyne, Sans and Papyrus are on their way to help move him. They’ll meet us in the MTT resort, so we just gotta make it that far.”

You push onward, carrying Mettaton’s arms draped over your shoulders and one leg under each of your arms. The going is slow, and the limbs drag on the ground and constantly trip you up as you get into the elevator and down the corridor back towards Alphys’ lab.

You’re greeted with screams of excitement when you open the door to the hotel lobby. The room is packed with monsters holding posters and t-shirts with your and Mettaton’s images plastered to them. News reporters with cameras and mics are asking for interviews and pictures.

Overwhelmed, you and Alphys clump together as the paparazzi surround you. Nervously, you smile and wave as cameras flash.

“Ah! There are the photographers!” Mettaton says, and begins cycling between faces of teasing winks and flirty kissing lips as his picture is taken. “I was wondering when they’d show up! Smile for the camera, darling! You’re a super star now!”

People crowd closer and ask for autographs while the reporters beg for exclusive interviews. You’re just about to get overwhelmed when I voice you didn’t think you’d ever find yourself missing shouts over the crowds.

“NYAGH! OUTTA THE WAY, PUNKS! VIP ROYAL GUARD COMING THROUGH!”

“And future royal guard also coming through!” A more nasally voice echoes.

“And also a sentry, if you want my two sents,” a third voice drawls at the end.

Reluctantly, the masses part as Undyne muscles a pathway through to them with Papyrus and Sans in tow.

“Guys! You made it!” Alphys beams.

“You called for backup?” the warrior asks. While she’s no longer in her iron uniform, Undyne is no less intimidating when she flashes that toothy grin at the both of you.

“Y-yeah!” Alphys blushes. “W-we need to get back to my lab pronto before Mettaton’s batteries completely drain. C-can you help?”

“Can I?” Undyne tucks Mettaton’s body under one arm and Alphys under the other. “Papyrus! Grab the kid and let’s blow this popsicle stand!”

You pass Papyrus Mettaton’s legs, which were definitely the heavier pair of limbs, but no less cumbersome than his noodle arms which still threatened to tangle up your legs. Beside you Sans watches with passive amusement.

“Do you want to give us a hand, Sans?” suggests Papyrus with irritation when he catches his brother just standing on the sidelines.

“Good job, bro” Sans claps lazily. “I’m really proud of you for giving a leg up.”

“Ugh! Never mind!” Papyrus groans.

“We’re ready, Undyne!” you announce. “Lead the way!”

“In that case, hang on tight, ‘cause we’re outta here! NYAGH!” Undyne bursts forth, leaving it up to the monsters to decide if they want to get out of the way or not as she charges through the lobby. The royal guard explodes out the front door, leaving you and Papyrus to do your best to keep up. The public scream in delight at your flashy exit and surge after you like a tidal wave.

“SANS!” Papyrus shouts, glancing back. “This is no time for antics! Keep up, brother!”

“It’s too late for me, bro. I’m a goner.” Sans says nonchalantly as he surfs the crowd, being passed around by monsters like a beach ball. “Save yourself. I’ll meet up with you again back at the lab.”

With Undyne waiting for no one, you’re forced to abandon Sans to the whims of the crowd and dash out of the hotel. The streets of Hotland are only a little less crowded as you make a break to the elevators. Along the way, monsters begin to point and whisper and cheer as your party scampers past and a few very overzealous fans begin to give chase.

“Crud, how are we gonna lose them?” Undyne asks when she sees the pursuers.

“I know! Head to the west elevator!” you say. “Go through the spider parlor!”

A wicked gleam flashes in Undyne’s eye as she follows your train of thought. She takes a sharp right, away from the hotel and into the narrow tunnel.

“Muffet! Are you here?” you call out when you reach the main foyer of the spider parlor.

“Back again so soon, dearie?” Muffet says as she crawls down the walls. “I just saw your performance on TV. Beautiful dance, mon ami! I’ll have to show a few of those moves to my spiders!”

“Yeah, the dance off was… certainly something!” you tell her. “But now we really need to get Mettaton back to the lab, and we’re being chased by rabid fans! Do you think you can slow them down for us and sell them a few of your backed goods?”

Muffet’s eyes crinkle with mischief. “Oooh, mon ami, that sounds delightful! Okay, girls!” she claps her three pairs of hands. “We’ve got a lot of customers headed our way! Let’s make this place spic and span so they never want to leave! Break out your oven mits!”

“Thanks, Muffet!” you shout as you jog on your way. Muffet merrily giggles and waves you farewell.

You reach the west elevator with no trouble and make it to the ground floor without any hiccups. The doors part and you’re greeted with clear streets, and at last you relax.

The sight of Sans reading a newspaper and leaning against the wall of Alphys’ lab meets you when you approach the building.

“Sans?” you speak up, looking back in confusion. “What- How did you get here before us?”

Sans shrugs. “Eh, I took a short cut. But that’s not important. Check this out, Kiddo. You’re in the newspaper.”

Sans turns the sheet over to show you the front page. Right smack dab in the center is a picture of you and Mettaton dancing together on stage. The editor captured a brilliant shot just when you and Mettaton both struck a pose while fireworks were exploding behind you.

“Wow, they work fast.”

“Eh, there’s never really much to report on down here, so the journalists ain’t exactly busy.”

From under Undyne’s arm, Mettaton squeals with joy.

“Oh darling! We made the front page! We’re headlining! This is the highest point of my career to date!”

“Hey, Sans! No fair!” Papyrus stomps. “I want a newspaper with a picture of my cool friend and favorite robot on the front to commemorate this moment too!”

“No problem, bro. Take mine,” Sans says, handing the newsprint to his brother.

Now it’s Papayrus’ turn to squeal like a school girl. He unceremoniously drops Mettaton’s legs and swipes the newspaper from his brother’s hand. “This is the greatest day of my life! My cool best friend is friends with a famous super star, which means I’m friends with a famous superstar by vicarious extension!”

He turns to you, hope in his eye sockets.

“Hey, pal? Mettaton? Do you think you could both autograph this for me?”

“Of course, darling! Bring it here!”

“Uh, sure. Anyone got a pen?”

Borrowing a pen from Alphys, you put your signature above your head, and then pass it to Mettaton, before remembering his current state.

“Er, do you need help holding the pen?”

“No need! Bring the newspaper close to my beautiful face.”

You do as instructed. Mettaton sucks his lips in, then puckers them out and smooches the space next to his image.

“Mwah! There we are!” He says craning his head back, and you pull the paper away to find a silvery blue lipstick mark.

Papyrus shrieks with joy when you hand him back the newspaper.

“Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!” Papyrus says squeezing you in a hug so tight that your lungs threaten to collapse, before letting you pass out. He twirls around and raises the newspaper high above his head to admire it.

“Hang on to that autograph, darling, because it’s the only one of its kind. I’ll be worth a fortune one day!” Mettaton winks.

“As if I’d ever sell this!” Papyrus scoffs. “This picture here commemorates the exact moment when my super cool best friend and super cool robot idol made their break out performance and went from rivals to allies! This is the greatest gift anyone has ever given me! I’ll cherish it for as long as I live!”

You realize, too late, to warn Papyrus to knock on wood for such overconfidence, but either the universe like a cruel joke,

“Arf! Arf!”

Or fate does not like to be tempted,

“Arf! Arf!”

Or maybe a certain little someone had an ear for hubris and just loved to wreak chaos wherever he went.

“ARF ARF ARF!”

Three quick barks are all the warning he gives as he darts through your legs. From out of nowhere, the small white dog leaps from the crowd and snatches the newspaper from Papyrus’ raised hands.

At first no one says anything- too dumbfounded by the sheer fact this tiny toy mutt cleared a vertical leap ten times his height.

The annoying dog does a graceful half turn in the air and lands with masterful precision, back into his signature play bow, facing the flabbergasted group.

There’s a tense moment as he stares you down with that devilish canine grin of his. And maybe the wind had blown the fur on his face the wrong way for a second, or maybe a cinder got in his eye, or maybe, just maybe the dog knowingly-

and intentionally-

winked at you.

“GET! HIM!” Papyrus explodes and tears after the pooch.

Apparently not understanding Papyrus’ rage, the dog wags his tail harder as the screaming skeleton runs up to him to play. Bursting with overstimulation, he races off, running circles around the other monsters, faking lefts and rights to trip Papyrus up and even running back through the skeleton’s legs. Yelling in borderline mania, Papyrus closes in on the dog, coils his legs beneath him, makes a desperate lunge with outstreched hands- and falls just short of grabbing the pooch, spilling to the ground.

The dog stops, play-growling and panting simultaneously so that it sounded suspiciously like huffing laughter, before skipping off in the direction of Waterfall.

“Noooo!” Papyrus wails, face down in the dirt. “I can’t! He’s won! This is the last straw!”

“Never fret, darling!” Mettaton says. “It’s not the end of the world!”

“Yeah, Papyarus,” You console him. “It’s gonna be okay.”

“No you don’t understand!” Papyrus pounds on the earth, throwing a tantrum on the floor. “That dog is always stealing MY things! MY action figures! MY cellphone! MY special attacks! NEVER anyone else’s! He intentionally went after MY newspaper! There are dozens being circulated right now, but he had to have that one because it was MINE! And knowing him, he’s probably running off to line is crate with it!”

“Darling! Don’t worry!” Mettaton assures. “We can get you another newspaper and I can autograph it again!”

Papyrus is silent for a long minute as he laments to the soil. “Fine,” he sighs at last when he regains his composure. “Though it won’t be as great as the original. This one just won’t have the same sentimental value, but I guess it would still suffice as a memento...”

Picking up Mettaton’s limbs once again, your group finally makes it inside Alphys’ lab where she guides you and the others to her upper balcony to deposit his pieces.

“Hup! There you go!” Undyne huffs as she slips Mettaton back into his docking station.

“Oh yes!” the robot sighs once plugged in. “That feels miles better already. Thank you, darlings.”

“Th-thanks for your help, Undyne,” Alphys stutters. You place Mettaton’s arms on the table while Papyrus drops off the legs. Is it your imagination, or is there a rosy hue on Alphys’ face? It could just be due to exertion from lifting Mettaton’s heavy parts, but the dreamy adoration shining in the royals scientist’s eyes as she watches Undyne stretch makes you think otherwise.

“Heh! Anything for you Alphys!” Undyne beams, her smile wider than you’ve ever seen. You blink, suddenly remembering the last conversation you had with the royal guard and Kid before you parted ways, and the teasing you heard from Bratty and Catty. Silently, you study the two out of the corner of your eye, noting the way they shyly brush hands and awkwardly fidget, and a realization hits you like a ton of bricks.

“You like her don’t you?” you ask the scientist when Undyne moves a ways off.

Alphys jumps. "W-what?! Wh-who told you!?”

“No one. I figured it out for myself just now. And, well, I guess it was pretty obvious when you said Undyne’s name to Bratty and Catty, too, but I didn’t make the connection then.”

“W-w-well d-d-don’t go telling anyone! Especially Undyne! Just the thought of her laughing at me makes me nauseated.”

“Laugh at you? Why do you think she’d do that?”

“Look at me!” Alphys throws her hands in the air. “I’m already a huge science nerd! She’d never want to be with a geek like me! All my statistics say so!”

“Says who?”

“Says ever media trope and dating simulator ever! When has the jock EVER hooked up with the nerd? It’s statistically impossible! Just… just keep it to yourself, will you? Please?”

Reluctantly you nod, and Alphys seems satisfied. You keep your eyes trained on her as she moves closer to Mettaton to back up his coding, then you uncross your fingers from behind your back.

You tiptoe around Alphys and Undyne and head back down stairs where Papyrus and Sans chat.

“Papyrus, I have a problem and I need your help,” you tell him.

“Fear not, friend! For I, the Great Papyrus, shall find a solution! Now tell me of this trouble!”

“It’s Alphys and Undyne. I think they’re friend zoning each other.”

“I… I am afraid I don’t follow,” Papyrus admits. “Alphys and Undyne have always been great friends! Why is being in the friend zone an issue?”

“Because they both want to be in the date zone but neither will tell the other, and they don’t know how the other feels about them.”

Papyrus gasps as if horror struck. “I see! Yes, this is a very serious problem indeed!”

“I need your help to get one to admit to the other how they feel. Then they’d both be happy.”

“Noble plan!” Papyrus says, giving you a fist bump. “And I have the perfect idea to get them together! Let me run home and get a plate of my spaghetti and meatballs. Sans, can you play the accordion?”

“No, but I can play the trombone.”

“Close enough!”

“Um, how is any of that supposed to get Undyne and Alphys to confess their feelings for each other?” you ask.

“Don’t worry! I saw this in a movie with dogs once! The lovely couple share spaghetti and end up kissing! Viola! Instant relationship!”

“Um, I was more or less thing something along the lines of forging a note from one of them to give to the other, and I was wondering if you could help me write it, since neither of them seems brave enough to do it themselves.”

“Also a brilliant idea!” Papyrus claps, and begins searching Alphys’ desk for blank paper. “We may have the best luck if we impersonate Alphys. Undyne’s writing style is a bit too flowery to imitate, with all her pink poetry and what not.”

“Purple prose,” Sans corrects.

“That too!” Papyrus smiles, placing a wad of paper and pencils between the three of you. “Okay! How do we flatter a fish?”

“Run over it a second time,” Sans quips.

“SANS!” Papyrus interjects while you barely contain your giggles. “…That was, admittedly, a really good joke, but slightly inappropriate for our current situation! But I like your enthusiasm! Keep it up, brother! We will woo Undyne yet!”

Grabbing a pen and paper, you begin jotting down as many cheesy pickup lines and science puns as you can think of.

--

It’s barely twenty minutes later when Undyne decides to take her leave, much to your dismay. You and Papyrus have only written one draft of your love note, but it will have to do.

“Well, I guess I’d better be going, then.” Undyne says as she moves towards the exit. “See you around sometime, Alphys?”

“Uh, s-sure Undyne!” Alphys fidgets, like she’s dying to say something else, but can’t find the words. “O-our usual anime night?”

“Sounds like a plan!” Undyne says, but you can tell it’s forced, like she want to say more as well, but can’t find the nerve. “See ya on your rounds tomorrow, Papyrus. Sans.” She nods at them. “And I guess… good luck with Asgore, kid.”

Undyne leaves through the front door and Alphys sighs. “W-well, I guess I’d better get started on reattaching Mettaton’s legs…” with a defeated exhale, she heads back upstairs.

Once you’re alone with the skeletons, you give them a nod. They nod in return and pass you the note. You flash thumbs up and run out the front door to catch up with Undyne.

“Undyne! Wait!” You shout as she makes her way to the ferry, waving the note above your head. “Alphys forgot to give you this before you left! She said it was very important and that you had to read it right away!”

You hand Undyne the letter and she opens it without hesitation. Her eye scans the page, creased with seriousness before her brow raises in surprise. She blinks a couple times and rereads it again, slower this time as she absorbs the words.

“Wow… I can’t believe this…” She says looking at you. Your spirits rise with hope. “I can’t believe… you’d thought I’d actually fall for this crap!”

And just like that, you’re hopes are crushed. Panicked, you try to back away, but Undyne presses closer to you, jabbing you in the chest with one finger. “What’s the big deal, punk?! Everyone knows Alphys’ handwriting is worse than chicken scratch! She’d never write this legibly, and not to mention in PAPYRUS FONT! Why under the earth are you trying to impersonate her and send me fake love letters?”

“Because she won’t do it herself!” you huff. “She’s crushing just as hard on you as you are on her, but she doesn’t have the nerve to tell you!”

"Wait, who told you I have a crush on her!?” Undyne demands, recoiling in horror.

“Oh, come on, it’s clearly obvious to any monsters with eyes that you two like each other,” you snort, crossing your arms in indignation.

“Wait…so what you’re saying is that Alphys… feels the same way about me?”

“Yeah, but she thinks if she tells you, you’ll turn her down or worse, that you’ll laugh at her. She already thinks you just put up with her weird interests to be a good friend.”

“That’s ludicrous! I’d NEVER laugh at her for what she’s passionate about! It’s what I love about her the most!” Undyne grips your shoulder as if ready to shake some sense into you.

“Then why don’t you tell HER that?” you retort.

The pupil in Undyne’s eye dilates, as if seeing clearly for the first time.

“You’re… you’re right! I DO have to tell her! And now that I know she shares the same feelings as I do, I don’t have to worry about her turning ME down!”

Without warning, Undyne grabs you by the arms and lifts you off the ground.

“C’mon I gotta tell her I know and I feel the same way! I gotta tell her everything!”

Undyne tucks you under one arm like a football and takes off at mach speed. If feels like you only blink once before you’re back at the lab, where Undyne drops you to pry open the doors when they don’t open fast enough.

“ALPHYS!” Undyne shouts, standing proudly in the door way, dramatically back lit from Hotland’s glow. “I have something very important to tell you! A confession, if you will!”

“U-Undyne??” Alphys jumps from her computer chair. “Y-y-you’re back! I-I-I wasn’t expecting you to come back so soon! I-Is something wrong?”

“Yes! Alphys, I am afraid I’m sick.”

“You are? Well, quick, come sit over here and I can give you a diagnostic-“

“-SICK OF KEEPING MY FEELINGS TOWARDS YOU A SECRET!”

Alphys pales and you don’t blame her. You thought Undyne was going to be gentler about this. You didn’t expect Undyne’s confession to be so… abrasive. Undyne sounded more like she was about to command you to do a hundred pushups instead of confess her crush. She storms over and lifts Alphys up until they’re eye level.

“Alphys! Ever since the day I met you in the dump, I saw the dedication in your eyes! The passion you had for the work you did, and the things that inspired you! That fervor! That zeal! Your ability to accomplish anything you put your mind to! It’s infectious!”

“U-Undyne, I never knew you felt that way about me!”

“Alphys, it’s your dedication to your goals that inspires me! It’s what I love most about you!”

“Y-you do?”

“Yes! And I would be greatly honored if you gave me the privilege to be that partner to help you achieve those goals!”

“I-I-I… y-yes! Yes, Undyne!” Alphys cries out in delight, wiping away tears of joy. “I-I would love nothing more!”

“My, this certainly seems cause for celebration!” Mettaton says from the upper level, having overheard the conversation below. “This day has been just full of dramatic revelations, hasn’t it? All in favor of a little festivity?”

“I would, but I really should be going now,” you say. Your work here is done, and you’ve still got a king to meet.

“Darling, you can’t leave just yet!” Mettaton insists. “You must stick around for the after party where we’ll do Q and As and talk to the press, strike up some brand deals, and then following that is the after-after party where we’ll shoot the behind the scenes 'Making Of' special, and then there’s the after-after-after party where you can only get in if you know someone who knows someone-”

“And d-don’t forget,” Alphys says from within Undyne’s embrace. “There are still throngs of people out there in the streets. I-It’d be impossible to get back to the MTT resort without being mobbed by your new fans looking for an autograph… H-how about you wait it out here for a while?”

“Yeah, punk!” Undyne adds. “Alphys and I can finally show you what anime is!”

“Oh! And we can finally have that sleep over! For real this time!” says Papyrus.

“Just… one more night, Kid?” Sans asks, clasping a boney hand on your shoulder. “What do you say?”

With four faces looking at you expectantly, it physically hurts to think about disappointing them.

“Alright,” you fold, smiling in good nature. “I guess one more night won’t hurt.”

The impromptu party is thrown together with remarkable speed. Papyrus and Sans are quick to arrange a table full of snacks while Alphys and Undyne queue up at least five movies to watch on her big screen monitor. The first movie on the list is one about dinosaurs trying to find a new home, then it’s followed by a movie about the trials of a baby deer, and after that is a movie about lions in Africa, and after that is another movie about dinosaurs trying to find a new home, except this time the dinosaurs are CGI, and to wrap things up is, finally, an anime about a wolf and a goat. It was a great pain Alphys had to go through not to find anime with humans in it, but she succeeded in the end.

It takes a while for the party to settle, for the thrill to die down and the atmosphere to shift from alert, high energy to a relaxed air where one could just enjoy another’s company. The human hangs around the sidelines around the time the first movie ends, waiting for when either of the two newly announced daters needed a break to catch Alphys alone, and finally manages it when she gets up to refill her popcorn.

“Hey Alphys?” The human says carefully, not wanting to draw too much attention to themselves while Undyne laughed at some anecdote Papyrus retold.

“W-what’s up?” The scientist asks.

“There’s something I need to tell you,” they fiddle with the sleeves of their sweater, clearly nervous. “I’ve been meaning to say this earlier, but I never found the chance with Mettaton constantly getting in the way and all, but… thank you.”

“Th… thank you?” Alphys stammers, completely taken off guard. “For what?”

“For everything,” the human says. “For helping me solve the puzzles, to helping me escape Mettaton, and everything in between.”

“What, that?” Alphys smiles weakly. “Th-that was nothing. I didn’t do anything important. You did all the hard work.”

“But you did!” The human says firmly. “Maybe you don’t believe what you did was that significant, but for the first time since I left Snowdin, I feel like you’re the only one who actually tried to HELP me get home. Everyone else just tried to get in my way to slow me down, but I feel like you made an honest effort to get me through Hotland. I can’t thank you enough for that.”

They smile at her, and Alphys forces a smile back, but she can’t hold it.

They’re… thanking her? But… she HAD tried to slow them down. Honest? But she had lied worst out of any of them.

“S-sure thing,” she says quietly.

“And when I see the king tomorrow it will be all thanks to you.” And the next thing she knows, they’re hugging her, tight and safe and trusting, and she can’t take it. Oh, no. Alphys didn’t deserve this. She didn’t deserve to get the girl of her dreams, she didn’t deserve to be the hero, she didn’t deserve their praise. Not when she's deceived them. Not when she's kept secrets from them- from everyone- worse than anyone could imagine! And when they smile at her, genuine and true, it’s the last straw. The last drop of guilt that makes the dam crack and break, and her outward reputation built on a foundation of lies starts to crumble.

“N… no…” Alphys says grimly, pushing them away. “You shouldn’t.”

“Oh, sorry,” the human apologizes, thinking they’ve invaded her personal space. “I didn’t mean to-“

“No, not that.” Alphys says, gripping her upper arms. “You… you shouldn’t be thanking me. I’m… I’m no better than anyone else you’ve met. In fact, I’m probably the worst of them all.”

“What?” the human laughs nervously, probably wondering if this is some elaborate self-deprecating joke. “Of course you are!”

“No, you don’t understand!” Alphys sniffs, raising her voice, and other heads turn her way. “I’m probably the least honest monster you’ve met so far! I-I’ve been lying to you from the very beginning!”

“Alphys…” Sans says in a cautious tone.

“Lying about what?” The human asks, worried.

“About everything! I-I-I was working with Mettaton the whole time!” The scientist sobs. “Y-y-you were never in any real danger up until the hotel. All those traps he caught us in were set up. I knew how to get out of them from the very beginning.”

“What… what do you mean?” The human takes one step forward towards her, and she takes three steps back, determined to keep distance between them. Her friends nervously get to their feet, worry clearly on their face, but unsure about moving forward if it would only push her away.

“Alphys?” Undyne says cautiously from the other side of the couch.

“A-a-and I’ve lied about helping you! I was trying to slow you down just as much as everyone else! In fact, all this time I was really studying you, because-!”

Across the room, Alphys’ phone blares an alarm. All the monsters in the room jump at the sudden noise, being as tense as a loaded bow string.

“It’s six o’clock,” Alphys gasps, hands flying to her muzzle. “Oh no, I forgot to give them dinner!”

“Alphys…?” the kid speaks up nervously, clearly distressed about the sudden outbreak. “Are you okay?”

Alphys looks at them sadly, and then to her friends who all wear pleading, desperate expressions.

“No, I’m not,” the lizard monster says sadly, inching towards the “restroom” along the north wall. “M-my lies go deeper than anyone realizes. I didn’t just deceive you; I deceived everyone in the Underground and I can’t take it anymore. I’ve got to… take care of something now, and whatever happens next, please don’t follow me.”

The “restroom” door parts and Alphys backs into it. The door slides back down before anyone has a chance to react.

“Alphys!” Everyone leaps for the door, scrambling over and around furniture and work benches, but none get to it in time. Undyne bangs on the metal panel so hard that it starts to dent, but still they don’t give.

“DAMNIT! Why won’t the door open?”

There’s a soft ding, and a faint light shows up on the restroom sign to the right of the door. It’s then that you notice that the restroom label is slightly crooked and… peeling?

Curious, you reach for the corner of the label, betting on a hunch, and tear it away to reveal a panel with two letters and a row of colored dots between them.

“G and B…” You read out loud. The letter ‘B’ is currently illuminated.

“Hey, this isn’t a bathroom!” Papyrus says. “It’s… an elevator?”

“But where does it go?”

As soon as the question is asked, the lights of the sign begin to shift, tracing backwards from B to the G. It chimes a pleasant note when it reaches the ground level once more and opens its doors expectantly.

“Down, apparently,” Sans notes. “Should we go after her?”

“Well DUH, dummy!” Undyne says, stepping in without a second thought. “You heard how upset Alphys was! We gotta make sure she’s okay!”

“Agreed!” Papyrus seconds the notion. “Alphys is our friend! We should be there for her if she needs us!”

Everyone piles into the elevator. There are no buttons on the inside. Instead, the doors automatically close and the lift descends, lowering far too slow for anyone’s comfort. All four occupants are tense and antsy as they try not to bump into anyone else in the tight space. Everyone keeps their eyes straight forward, anticipating the second the doors reopen.

At last the elevator rumbles to a steady halt and the door slides open. The group stumbles out of the lift, into a dimly lit hallway that echoes with bad vibes that instantly give everyone second thoughts about coming down here. A wave of cold, musty air hits your face as you step forward into the dim, murky hallway. Motion sensor monitors blink awake as you pass. You only pick up snippets as you try to keep up with the group, but you think they mention something about research on fallen monsters, human souls, and flowers.

“What is this place?” Papyrus asks, marching down the hallway.

“It’s like… some sort of sublayer of Alphys’ lab,” Undyne says, pointing to the blueprints on the wall and the shelves of beakers and vials. “Sans, you used to work with Alphys, right? Have you ever seen this before?”

“No, I haven’t,” Sans says mystified. “My main area of research was the CORE. To be honest, I never really saw how Alphys’ “research station” on the ground floor was considered a good set up for soul research, but this… THIS is a true lab.”

An ominous warning feeling prickles at the back of your neck in trepidation. You avert your eyes and keep your head low as you pick up the pace. The corridor opens into a lobby, complete with fake ficuses, fold up chairs and a vending machine. Across the other side of the room is another gaping doorway leading into darkness. The four members of the party stare at it. In the silence, scraping noises could be heard in the distance.

“I don’t like the looks of this,” Sans says.

“Well, there can’t possibly be anything… bad… down here,” You point out. “I-It’s just dark. We know Alphys is down here, so there can’t be anything dangerous nearby… right?”

“Yeah! We can’t wimp out now! It’s just Alphys!” Undyne says. “C’mon! Let’s find her!” And with that, Undyne forges ahead into darkness.

The hallway immediately turns right as it guides you past rows of locked offices, the names on each door long since peeled off or have been scratched out by some resentful claws. At the end of the hall is a door labeled “Dormitory”, and it’s slightly ajar. Is it your ears playing tricks on you, or do you hear breathing coming from the room beyond it?

“Looks like she went this way.” Undyne says, grabbing the doorknob and pushing it open. The hinges whimper only a little, as if frightened they’ll be punished if they make too much noise. A strange mist curls at your ankles, curiously poking at your footwear.

The four of you enter. It takes a while for your eyes to adjust. In the gloom, Undyne’s eye has dilated until her black pupil almost obscure her yellow sclera. San’s eye lights seem to have grown as well, but only cast about as much light as a glow stick in the dark.

When you can finally distinguish shapes in the low light, you discover the room is filled with medical cots, arranged in perfect columns and rows. Along the far wall, you spy more hallways branching off into the unknown. The four of you fan out, standing shoulder to shoulder. You take a step forward and your foot kicks a bowl. Bits of dry dog food scatter on the floor. You can’t shake the feeling you’re being watched.

“This place is huge,” Sans whistles as you creep along the northern wall. Your party turns north into the first branching hallway you find, but before long the corridor splits again at a T intersection. Hesitantly, you all look down each fork as far as you can see. “Should we split up to look for Alphys?”

“You dolt!” Undyne scolds him, flicking him on the top of the skull with her thumb and index finger. “Haven’t you ever watched a scary movie in your life? You NEVER split up from the group! There’s safety in numbers!”

“Yes, but we could cover more ground, Undyne!” Papyrus points out.

“Yeah, not to mention the whole “arguing about not splitting up thing” is becoming a trope in of itself,” Sans adds.

“It’s way too dark to see safely down here,” you add, siding with Undyne. “This place could be a labyrinth. We could get lost.”

“Yeah, but if we split up, one of us might get hurt, or something worse, and no one would be able to help!”

“We could travel in pairs!” Papyrus suggests.

“If we all stick together we could just as easily all get lost at once compared to if we split up,” Sans notes. “Mathematically speaking, spreading out is more beneficial to our cause. After all, it’s just us and Alphys down here, right?”

The question is rhetorical, but no one makes a noise of agreement. Everyone’s eyes shift side to side in uncertainty.

It’s just you and Alphys down here. And maybe if you say it enough times, you’ll start to believe it.

“R-right. Pairs it is, then. Papyrus, you and your brother start searching the west corridor. Me and the kid will head east.”

There’s a silent nod of agreement as your group splits into pairs. Turning right, you take one last look as the skeleton brothers’ head west before following Undyne into the pitch black hallway east. The air seems to drop in temperature the further you go.

“Alphys!” you call out into the darkness, your voice reverberating off the walls. “Please come out! We just want to talk with you!”

“SShhhh, punk!” Undyne hisses. “You gotta be quiet!”

“Why?” You ask. “Aren’t we the only ones down here?”

“Well, yeah! I mean, I think. Ugh! I don’t know anymore! The longer we’re down here, the more I feel like we’re not alone…”

“But we can’t be quiet if we’re trying to find her! How else will she know we’re here?”

Undyne can’t seem to find a response to that, and instead marches on.

Side by side you tiptoe down the hallway. Half way down, you unconsciously reach up and take the warrior’s scaly hand for comfort. You don’t even notice what you’ve done until Undyne is squeezing your hand back for her own reassurance. You hold her tight, not wanting to lose her in the low visibility.

The path you’ve chosen ends in a dead end room packed floor to ceiling with cooling fans on two of the three walls, quietly emitting an ever-present hum. At the far end of the room is a switch.

“Light switches?” you say optimistically.

“A light switch? All the way down here in this dead end hallway on the other side of the room?” Undyne says skeptically.

“Hey, you never know,” you argue and go up and flip it.

The monotonous thrum of the fans dies down instead as their blades still, leaving the room more deathly silent than before.

“Tch,” Undyne clicks her tongue as she studies the ceiling. “Well, it was worth a shot, I guess.”

“Yeah, I guess this means we can go back the other way and meet up with the guys now, huh?”

A low rumble sounds behind you.

“What was that?” you say quickly.

“Maybe it was just one of the fans who didn’t get the memo about turning off?”

The grumble from across the room turns into a growl. The two of you spin around on your heels to catch an amorphous form emerging from the darkness.

There’s… a creature lurching towards you from across the room, but it doesn’t look or behave like any monster you’ve met so far. Its body is stark white and dripping like melting snow. An ever-changing, uncountable number of limbs protrude from his body, sprouting and retracting back into its mass, a self-contained shadow, darker than darkness is collected under its legs with glowing eyes peering at you from between its shifting limbs. The bulk of it tapers off into one lump you dare call a head, but instead of a face, there is just a circle of blackness with no texture or shape to hint its depth, just a pure space of void that is aimed right at you. The creature is huge, bigger than you and Undyne combined.

And it’s blocking the only exit.

“St-stay back!” Undyne shouts, throwing her arm in front of you like a shield. You are not sure if the statement was directed at you or the creature. She summons a spear to look threatening. “What are you, and did you do anything to Doctor Alphys, you freak?!”

The thing in front of you seems confused as well. Its many legs jerk and spasm as it clamors toward you to inspect you closer.

“I’m warning you!” Undyne yells, pointing her quivering spear in its general direction. “T-take another step and you’ll get to know this spear up close and personal!”

The beast makes a snuffling sound, the void on its head constricting with each huff of air. Two protrusions on its head perk up as it begins to erratically inch closer.

“H-hey! Didn’t you hear me, freak? By order of the Royal Guard, stand down! I’m giving you to the count of three to back off or I. Will. Fire!”

Undyne lifts her spear high and stands at the ready. In the same moment the beast in front of you crouches as if ready to pounce. Its whole body quivers violently.

“One…!”

You narrow your eyes. Why is there something so familiar in the way that it’s poised? The tilt of its head, how its hindquarters are up in the air…

“Two!”

The wag of… its… tail- oh god you know what this is.

“Thr-!” “Undyne! Don’t hurt it!” you tackle the guard in a panic, barreling into her waist just as she looses her spear. The weapon goes flying far off target to the left, and the creature immediately spins around and lunges after it.

“Punk, what the hell???” Undyne screams at you. “That thing was about to attack us!”

“No, it’s not,” you say as you get up on your shaking knees. “I-it’s a dog, Undyne. It’s just a dog.” Your voice won’t stop trembling.

“A dog!? Brat, I work with dogs, and I can tell you that thing ISN’T a dog!”

“B-but it is! Watch,” you blow a shrill whistle, then turn your attention to the room’s exit, and just as you figured, the white mass comes charging back. It skitters to a halt, its head turning to each of you, not sure who summoned it. You step forward to catch his attention.

“H-hey boy,” you coo, patting your knees with all the bravery you can muster.

“Sh-show Undyne here that you’re just another old pooch. Come here!”

The amalgamate’s body goes ridged at the command, before its ears fold back and it leaps forward, It lets out an ecstatic ear-piercing shriek as it knocks you flat, its tail wagging so fast it’s just a blur. It rubs its face all over your sweater, coating your shirt in dog hair and a cold aqueous gel you’d rather not think about.

Behind you, Undyne screams and grabs the collar of your shirt to yank you out of harm’s way.

“Brat, are you trying to get yourself killed?!” Undyne says, holding you two feet off the ground.

“No, look! He’s calming down!” You fight back. “Really! Try petting him!”

“I’m not going anywhere NEAR that thing and neither are you! What if this hell spawn ate Alphys?”

The culmination of canines whines as if struck and cowers, placating.

“It’s okay boy, or… girl, or whatever you are. You’re not in trouble. You’re a good dog.”

Seeking affection, the amalgamate crawls closer and stretches out its neck to meet your out reaching hand. You ruffle the fur on the top of its head and the monster’s body shakes with joy.

Half way through your pet, the monster pulls back and begins to heave, and its whole body spasming as it hacks something up from what you only hope is its stomach.

With a violent cough, Undyne’s blue spear falls out of the hole in its face and onto the floor, coated in slobber.

The three of you stare at it for a second, and then the amalgamate puffs up its chest proudly.

“Ha ha, see? It is a dog,” you tell Undyne. “It brought your spear back for you.”

“Well if it’s a dog then it should be able to find someone by scent!” Undyne says. Her shoulders un-tense at last, and she almost looks impressed at the monster. “Hey, mutt! Find doctor Alphys!”

The monster’s ears twitch at the name, but it doesn’t move.

“Go on! Sniff her out!” Undyne repeats.

The canine tilts its head.

Undyne rolls her eye. “You know; FETCH.”

The amalgamate leaps to its feet and does a one-eighty so fast that its claws skit on the tile, making it cartoonishly run in place for a second. The creature lets out a bark so deep, you feel it in your bones. When at last it finds traction, the amalgamate tears off, its rear end fishtailing and crashing into the wall of fans as it lunges for the door way.

“Guess we’d better follow it,” you say. “It’s as good a lead as any.”

You catch up to the amalgamate in the hallway. Its face is so low to the ground its almost touching it as it snorts at the floor, head swiveling back and forth as it searches for the scent. Its face traces over one spot before it slingshots back, and studies it intently. After a tense moment of sniffing, its head comes up and it brays, loud and deafening when it finds a trail and takes off towards it.

If the halls weren’t so narrow, you don’t know if you’d have been able to keep up with the amalgamate. Its feet constantly scramble to keep it up right, as if not acquainted with having so many legs. Sometimes the amalgamate doesn’t even stay on the floor, instead choosing to crawl along the walls and ceiling as it snakes through the tunnel.

Making a hard right, the canine amalgamate leads you through the showers and into a room lined floor to ceiling with shelves of video tapes, where it proceeds to spend several minutes sniffing the shelves.

“She must’ve been here recently,” you note, eyeing the strange VHSs and old TV in the middle of the room.

“Well, she isn’t here now,” Undyne says, before the amalgamate takes off once more. “Come on! We can’t lose it!”

Ahead the amalgamate makes a sharp left, skirting a pit so deep, you can’t see the bottom of it. The amalgamate disappears down another hall, only to have screams answer a second later.

“Sans and Papyrus!” you gasp. “Quick, we gotta stop them before they hurt the dog!”

You race into the room as fast as you can. “Stop! Heel!” you preemptively shout, only to find a cage of blue bones trapping the amalgamate.

“Nobody move!” Undyne orders as she enters the room.

“No need to fear!” Papyrus says when he catches the sight of your confused faces. “I have detained the threat! We are uninjured and safe!”

“It’s not a threat, Papyrus. It’s a dog!” you explain.

“He won’t hurt you.” Undyne grunts. “Typical dog. Can’t stay focused if there’re bones nearby!”

The amalgamate twists around in circles. You can’t tell if it’s fascinated or confused by the blue bones, but then to everyone’s surprise, it hunkers down close and then the void on its face begins to expand. With a great intake of air, like the magnetic pull of a black hole, the amalgamate inhales one wall of bones into its orifice, completely unfazed.

“Well then!” Papyrus says only slightly perturbed. “I should have anticipated that bone attacks would have no effect on a dog monster!”

The amalgamate lets out another earth shaking bark before pouncing on Papyrus.

“Hey! Paws off the little brother!” Sans shouts, his eye flaring blue.

“Sans! No! It’s okay!” you scream. “It’s just a dog! It won’t hurt him!”

Beneath the pile of white sludge, papyrus shrieks a bone rattling cry. “Help! I’m being affectionately licked to my death!”

“A dog?” echoes Sans, eyeing the enormous conglomerate of canines. “If that’s true, what kind of dog, then?”

“Uhh, mixed breed?” you offer. In the distance, you think you hear a snicker and a shiver runs down your back. Blinking, you momentarily put the thought to the side but keep your eyes peeled. “It likes to be pet and knows how to fetch, at the very least. We were hoping it could help us find Alphys, but it looks like he caught the scent of you two instead.”

“Leave it to a dog to find a bunch of bones!” Undyne snorts. “You two having any better luck?”

“No sign of Alphys so far,” Sans reports. “It was really foggy in here and we couldn’t see anything for the life of us, but then it suddenly cleared up. Maybe a second look around wouldn’t hurt.”

“As much as I’d love to find Alphys,” Papyrus grumbles, affectionately stroking the canine monster, “I can’t get any searching done if I’m constantly being assaulted by over excited canines! Can we please get this guy out of the room?”

“Sorry, Paps. You know the rules.” Sans shrugs. “Once you pet a dog, the pact is sealed. He’s yours now.”

“But he’s impeding our search and rescue efforts!”

“How about we regroup?” Undyne suggests. “It seems pretty clear this mutt isn’t going anywhere without you, Papyrus so how about you and I take him back to the dormitory where he can stay out of the way, while Sans and the punk keep looking for Alphys?”

“UGH! Fine! I will be on dog-sitting duty!” Papyrus grumbles, wiggling his way out from beneath the amalgamate. He looks over his shoulder blades at you and Sans as he leaves the room with the canine in tow. “You two! Be quick about it! We don’t have all night to find Alphys!”

“No worries, bro,” Sans assures him. “We’re keeping our eye-sockets out for her.”

Undyne and Papyrus groan as they exit the room. But from somewhere behind you and Sans-

“Ha… ha…”

That uneasy shiver runs down your spine again. Sans must feel it too, for his eye lights shift from side to side as he tries to pin point the haunting laughter.

“Who’s there?” he flinches, looking sharply over his shoulder. In the very back of the room, you think you see a figure wince and withdraw into the shadows behind a row of refrigerators. Whatever is over there sure isn’t Alphys, but if it’s just as scared of you as you are of it, then it can’t be all that dangerous.

“Sans…” you say quietly. You point to the last fridge. Sans nods. “No sudden movement. Turn around… very… slowly.”

You creep over to the ice box and slowly peer around one of its sides while Sans does the same on the other. Huddled in a corner is another amalgamate, pale blue and white. Timidly it squawks when it realizes its cornered, shedding snowflakes from its ruffled feathers and forcing you to back away.

“Hey there,” Sans says softly to the creature. “Sorry if I spooked ya. I didn’t mean nothin’ by it. Mind coming out?”

“Who’s … there…? Who’s… there…?” The monster mimics Sans in a tired voice. “Knock… knock?”

“Is…. Is this a knock, knock joke?” Sans asks, beads of sweat forming on his brow. “’Cause I’m great at those, but it doesn’t’ really work if you tell ‘em backwards like that.”

“Maybe WE should try telling the knock, knock joke?” you suggest, inching closer to Sans. “It did laugh at your eye socket pun.”

“Worth a shot.” Sans shrugs. “Can’t do any harm, anyway. Knock, knock.”

There is a moment of silence before the monster pokes its head out from around the side of the fridge again, and you get a clear look at it for the first time. Its eyes are sagging and vacant. It’s got a beak and wings like a bird, and much like the canine amalgamate, it seems to melting, or, err, molting in this case. Parts of it seem more plant-like than feather like. A cold mist clouds around its beak when it exhales, and the general air around it is so cold…

“Who… is… there?” It asks curiously.

“Their snow.”

“Their… snow… who?”

“There’s snow door bell, so I have to knock!”

“Ha… ha… ha...” the melting monster chuckles, feathers and slush dripping from its amorphous body. “Sn… snowy…”

Clumsily, the amalgamate steps forward and you have to fight back a gasp of shock. In better lighting you can see the monster more clearly. It looks like some hybrid of the Snowdrake you met in Snowdin combined with the Vegetoids you know in the Ruins.

“Hey, I think it worked.” You say let’s try another.”

“No problem, kiddo,” Sans winks. “I can dish out jokes for days. Listen to this one- where does a snowman keep his money?”

“Where…?” The amalgamate asks.

“In a snowbank!”

“Ha… ha… Thank you…” the amalgamate laughs.

“Pardon us, but I didn’t realize you hybrid monsters could talk.” You ask quietly. “Who are you?”

“I… don’t… remember…” It says, ruffling its feathers. “Got… got lost… so… long ago…. Where…. Where did… they… go? I… need to… go home… want to… go home… Where is home?”

The more it talks, the more agitated the amalgamate becomes and the less definite its shape holds, like it’s losing itself.

“Hey! Hey! No worries,” Sans says comfortingly. “We can help ya. No need to fall apart on me.”

“Heh… heh…” the amalgamate smiles weakly. “I… remember… now.”

“You do?” You say hopefully. “What happened to you?”

“We… I… Missssess drake… me.” The monster says, trying to keep its words straight. “F… fallen… down… The doctor… said… she could… help…”

You stifle a gasp. Beside you Sans goes ridged.

“Mrs. Drake? Snowdrake’s mother?” you say nervously.

“Ah… little… Snowy… so funny…” she smiles fondly. “Just… like his… father.”

“Mr. Drake…” Sans says absently. He turns to you. “His comedy routine’s been in the pits since his wife fell down and his son ran away from home.”

“Did Alphys do this to you?” You ask sadly, looking at the depressing amalgamate.

“Al… phys… doctor…. Alphys said… stay determined… she… would… help…”

“My God…” Sans says. His eyes go dangerously dark. “I knew Alphys had wanted to run tests on monsters, but I didn’t think she’d do THIS to you.”

“Not… her… fault…” Mrs. Drake says. “Not… her… fault… no… one’s… fault… no… one… knew…”

The amalgamation begins to shiver again, becoming upset once more.

“It’s okay, Mrs. Drake,” You comfort her. “Do you know where Alphys is now?”

“Know?... No…” the amalgamate says.

“We’re gonna help you get home,” Sans promises. “Don’t worry, we won’t be mad at Alphys.”

“Let’s take her back to the dormitory with the others,” you say, lending her a hand. Mrs. Drake places a wing into it, and at once your hand goes numb as it’s enveloped in the strange gelatinous sludge.

“Might as well. This way is a dead end.” Sans notes, nodding at the room. “Alphys wasn’t down this direction. Was there more to explore where you found the pooch?”

“No, but I think there was another hallway that led out the dormitory. We can still go that way.”

You retrace your steps back to the main room with the beds, where you discover Undyne and Papyrus have shoved several cots together for the canine amalgamate to curl up on.

“Sssshhh!” Undyne hisses at you when you enter the room. “We just managed to get Endogeny to calm down, so don’t make any loud noises!”

“Endogeny?”

“Yeah!” Undyne says, pointing to the dog bowl you had kicked when you first came in the room. “That’s their name! Or at least, that’s what Papyrus and I assumed. They respond to anything you call them if you say it in a mushy voice. Isn’t that right, stupid face?” Undyne coos. Endogeny whines ecstatically.

“Wait, where is Papyrus?” Sans says, looking around the room and noticing a lack of brother to be found.

A lump beneath Endogeny’s fur begins to move and a gloved hand pops out between one of its many pairs of legs.

“Over here!” Papyrus says. “It seems Endogeny feels anxious when they do not have a chew toy to cuddle with, so I had to be a substitute.”

“Chew toy?” Sans asks in concern.

“Ah! Do not fret dear brother! I may have been the role of chew toy, but I was not in harm’s way, for Endogeny has no teeth! Or mouth! Or a face for that matter! So there was never any danger!”

“Never mind all that!” Undyne interrupts. “Did’ja find Alphys?”

“No, but we found someone else,” you and Sans step aside to let Mrs. Drake enter the room. “Oh God, another one?” Undyne says.

“It’s Snowdrake’s mom, Undyne,” you explain. “One of the monsters Alphys was trying to prevent from falling down. We think Alphys accidentally did this to them.”

“Wait, these guys are the monsters that Alphys TESTED on?” Undyne shutters. “Then that means… these dogs-“

“Were probably formal guard members.”

Undyne looks at Endogeny with new light. A look of sadness shadows her face. “What did Alphys do?” she whispers sadly.

“Not her fault… not her fault…” Mrs. Drake repeats, shaking. “The doctor… is good… she did not… mean to…”

“Hey, hey,” Sans says, patting the amalgamate’s back the best he can. He has to stop when his hand starts to meld into her form. “We aren’t mad. Just worried and concerned.”

“There’s still one more hallway we haven’t searched yet,” You point out. “Alphys could be down there.”

“I think I’m gonna have to stay here, bucko,” Sans says. “Mrs. Drake seems pretty shaken. I think I’ll keep her company and tell her a few more of my stellar jokes that are out of this world.”

The amalgamate chuckles and begins to grin.

“See? There’s the smile I’m looking for.”

“Okay, then. Undyne?”

“Don’t think I can, punk.” Undyne says. “Endogeny only stays relaxed if someone can maintain a constant petting environment with supplemental head scratches at a Mach Five speed, and if I don’t do it there’s no doubt in my mind Endogeny will go on another rampage that will surely kill hundreds via love tackle. D’you think you’ve got the endurance for that?”

“Uh… I don’t think so.”

“Ah! It looks like it is my turn to go exploring dimly lit corridors with y new best fried!” Papyrus says, squeezing out from under Endogeny’s legs. The amalgamate gives a small grunt of displeasure before rolling over for belly rubs. “Come on, friend! Let us succeed where other great monsters have failed and find the doctor! We shall return triumphant!”

“Okay. We’ll be back as fast as we can, guys!”

You exchange ‘good lucks’ and ‘farewells’ with Sans and Undyne, and take off down the east hall with Papyrus. It’s not long until the dormitory fades out of sight. Ahead of you, the hallway brightens a little, filling your heart with hope, but when you round the corner, you’re met with just another hallway. On the left side, the wall is lined with mirrors that trick your eyes into believe the corridor is actually bigger than it is. On the right side, a row of tables covered with flower pots growing under artificial lights borders the wall. Ah, so that’s why it seemed brighter.

Your heart skips a beat when you recognize the plants grown. They’re golden flowers. Why are there golden flowers way down here? Wait… If… if Alphys had created these amalgamations, then… was it possible she had created other things as well?

“Hey, do you hear that?” Papyrus whispers to you. You listen close and pick up the faintest sound of… a crinkling wrapper?

Stealthily inching forward, you and Papyrus edge the wall. It’s yet another monster, this time with a body of blue and green, with arms of brown and a head of deep purple. It hunches over something in front of you, its head nothing more than a giant mouth and a pair of eyes. Its body is slug-like with two muscular arms and no legs.

“It’s another amalgamate,” Papyrus says.

“Is… is it eating something?” you ask when you hear its jaws crunch and snap. You swallow hard. What if it’s eating- no. No, it couldn’t have. The other amalgamates you’ve met so far have bend nice and friendly, so why would this one be different? Besides, dust doesn’t crunch. “Should we approach it?”

“I think not! It would be rude to strike up a conversation with someone while they have their mouth full!”

You strategize with Papyrus on what to do, when a new noise distracts you from behind. It’s a tapping noise that echoes above you, and you turn around to find a lanky figure emerging from the overhead vents like viscus fluid.

It’s ANOTHER amalgamate, twice the height of you and Papyrus combined. Its body is a mottled color of red and orange, with two skinny legs, a pencil thin neck, a massive, pointy bill and razor sharp wings. It has one eye that makes up all of its face, and when it blinks you can’t help but notice its eyelids are lined with teeth. As soon as the amalgamate sees you, it lets out a blood curdling screech and charges forward.

“Papyrus! Duck!”

The skeleton snatches you up and covers you like a blast shield. “I think it looks more like a stork or a crane, but still definitely avian!” he says in a panic, as the monster rushes past.

The amalgamate doesn’t pay you any mind as it dashes past you and Papyrus, instead going straight for the other amalgamate in the room. The first amalgamate hisses in defiance at the newcomer’s approach, turning its back on the bird as it tries to protect the thing it had been snacking on.

With angry screeching that sounds like twenty different bird calls at once, the bird monster attacks the other with rapid-fire pecks from its beak and raking stomps from its claws. The big lipped monster screams in protest, grabbing the bird’s neck with its muscly arm in an effort to keep it at bay, but it’s no use against the bird’s sheer amount of reach. Flapping its razor wings in retaliation, the bird pecks at the slug-monsters eyes. The assaulted amalgamate shrieks in pain, and releases the bird to cover its face. The attacker, now freed, swoops its head low and snatches at the prize the injured amalgamate had been guarding.

“No, Reaper Bird!” it cries out, it’s voice many-layered like a chorus. “These are Lemon Bread’s! Get your own!”

Reaper Bird raises their head triumphantly, the prize held high out of Lemon Bread’s reach, safely in its serrated jaws. It’s then you can see clearly what they are fighting over.

“It’s… a bag of chips!” you say in disappointed annoyance. With a cry of outrage, Lemon Bread swipes at Reaper Bird’s legs with their thick tail, knocking the thieving amalgamate to the ground. The chips scatter across the floor and the skirmish starts anew.

“They’re fighting over junk food! You tell papyrus. “We have to break it up!”

“Hey! Be careful!” Papyrus warns you as you wiggle free of his grasp.

“Stop! Stop it you two!” You demand, pushing the monsters apart and holding your hands up between them. Reaper Bird screams something that sounds like ten different insults at once at you as it stomps it feet angrily, scratching up the title.

“Listen to them!” papyrus demands, stepping close to your side. “Look at yourselves! You two are clearly adults, yet you can’t even share? Did you learn nothing in Kindergarten?”

Reaper Bird says something that you can’t make out and snaps its beak.

“I’m… I’m sorry, could you run that by me again?” Papyrus says.

Reaper Bird screams and doubles over, contorting its jaw before shouting;

“We are starving!” “Supper is late!” “He took the last bag!”

“The doctor never came,” Lemon bread grumbles in its many toned voice. “Said she would bring dinner, but nobody came. Forgotten about us again. Forgotten forever.”

“That can’t possibly true!” Papyrus scoffs. “If you are a patient of Dr. Alphys, then she would never abandon you!”

“That’s what they all say.” Lemon bread hisses, narrowing their eyes at you.

“H-hey, what’s going on here!” A familiar stuttering voice demands. A wave of relief washes over you when you turn to find Alphys carrying a box full of canned goods “I’m f-f-five minutes late to give you dinner and you start going at each other’s throats? H-have some manners!”

Reaper Bird and Lemon Bread hang their heads apologetically.

“H-here,” Alphys says, passing them each a can of ravioli. “T-take turns using the microwave, a-and cover your bowls with a paper towel so it doesn’t splatter everywhere!” Alphys tells them as the two amalgamates excitedly rush off down the corridor. “A-and Reaper Bird, will you quit turning off all the lights? It’s bad for your eyes to stay in the dark!”

“Florescent lights hurt my eye!” “I am just one big eye!” “I have night vision!” it says all at once.

After they’ve vanished from sight Alphys turns towards you, but doesn’t look you in the eye.

“I’m so sorry you had to see that. That you had to see any of this,” she says quietly. “I-I guess you know the truth now, don’t you? About all the horrible things I’ve done to these monsters. I-it’s okay if you’re angry at me for hiding such terrible lies. I understand…”

“Alphys!” you and Papyrus say in unison as you rush forward to embrace her in a hug.

“Are you okay?”

“Are you hurt?”

“We thought we’d never find you or see you again!”

“We’ve been looking everywhere for you!”

“You… you have?” Alphys blinks confused. “I thought… I thought you’d be angry with me.”

“We’ll admit we’re a little upset, but we were more scared and concerned about you above anything else!” Papyrus says. “We were so worried!”

“Y-you were?”

“Of course! You’re our friend, Alphys!” you tell her matter-of-factly. “We all came down to look for you!”

“You were looking for me?” Alphys parrots, disbelieving. “Why?”

“Is there an echo down here?” You giggle. “We all came looking because we were worried, Alphys. We all care about you and didn’t want to see you get hurt.”

“That’s… That’s so kind of you,” Alphys sniffs. “I- I don’t deserve any of this. Y-you should have just left me here. I d-don’t deserve to be forgiven for what I’ve done!”

“Yes you do, Alphys!” you huff. “So stop putting yourself down like that! Sure, it looks like you’ve done some… questionable things, down here, but whatever you need to confess, we’ll still support you, no matter what, okay?”

“Yeah… yeah, you’re right,” the royal scientist perks up just a little bit and stands a little straighter. “Let’s go back to the main room. I still have to give Endogeny and Mrs. Drake their dinners, a-and I’ve got a lot I need to come clean about to you guys and… and to everyone.”

Alphys follows Papyrus and her lab partner back into the dormitory, albeit reluctantly. Sans, Undyne, Endogeny and Mrs. Drake meet her there. She braces for a bunch of raised voices and accusations and angry questions but instead she is only met with more worry and concern. When the anger she had been preparing herself for ultimately never comes, she finally has a break down.

“This… is what happened to your soul research?”

“Y-yeah,” Alphys sobs. “E-everyone seemed fine at first. I.-I w-was going t-to send them all ho-ome but then when they melted together and st-started to lose their identities, I-I couldn’t do it. A-all their fa-amlies would hate me and blame me, and they’re not wrong! I did this to them! The longer I kept putting off sending them home, the harder it became. Every day I got more angry phone calls, a-and I just ignored it like a c-coward until they eventually gave up and stopped calling.”

In the comfort of Undyne’s arms, surrounded by her closest friends and a dog ready to offer sympathy at a moment’s notice, Alphys recounts her tale, how she extracted determination from the king’s collection of human souls, to injecting monsters with concentrated doses of determination, to hiding them in the basement when the experiment had failed.

Her audience listens patiently, and while not once they ever raise their voice or scold her, Alphys can see the horror and frustration in their eyes at her words.

“Th-that’s why when you thanked me, I p-panicked,” Alphys says to the human. “You… you were the first person to not know of anything I’d done prior, and working together with you was fun! Helping you was fun! You g-genuinely liked me, and for a few moments, I didn’t feel like a disappointment anymore! I remembered what it felt like to be depended on by s-someone, but I knew in my soul that image of me in your mind was smoke and mirrors, and I didn’t deserve that praise. I… I originally liked to you because I wanted to study you, b-but by the end of the day I really did want to be your friend, but if I c-can’t even tell the truth, then how can I ever make a friendship work?”

“So it’s true, then?” The human says, distracted. “You wanted to study me? Mettaton said as much when we had the dance-off, but I thought he was just trying to get in my head.”

“Uh, y-y-yeah,” Alphys sweats. Beneath her, Undyne tenses, and she can feel Sans and Papyrus watching her nervously. “B-b-b-because, I, uh, you, aah…”

“Because I’m a Boss Monster, right?” The human fills in the blank. “My soul is a little stronger than average monsters, right? And you wanted to learn more about it? You couldn’t really do that to Asgore, since you work for him. You wanted to study it to help the other monsters?”

In that moment Alphys realizes she has a choice; to stick to the truth and come clean about EVERYTHING or take part in a lie she hadn’t even started. She realizes then, if she told them the truth, it would hurt them, and that she’d be taking down everyone else with her. All this time she had been lying and keeping secrets to protect herself. Was a lie still just as bad if it was to protect someone else?

“S… something like that,” Alphys says, neither lying flat out, nor telling the truth either. If the kid would offer her a way out, then she would take it. No need to complicate things further. She’d already come clean about most of her lies. The lies of others are a different matter.

“Alphys, I know how you feel, and I know what you’re going through,” The kid tells her. “Because I’m the exact same way. You feel like you’ve screwed up so horribly that there’s nothing you can do about it, that it’s all your fault and there’s no way you can be forgiven no matter how hard you try, but those thoughts are wrong, Alphys.” They glance at Sans. “Someone once told me as long as you own up to your mistakes and do your best to mend them, no one can fault you for bad intentions.”

“Y-y-you really think that?”

“Of course, dummy!” Undyne says, hugging her tight. “We got your back no matter what! As long as you honestly try your hardest to help those around you, we’ll be there to support you!”

Alphys whimpers and sheds a few tears of relief. “Th-thank you guys so much. I-I-I want to be a better person, I really do, and knowing you’ll forgive me for the mess I didn’t mean to cause really helps.”

Gently, Alphys pries Undyne’s arms off of her and gets to her feet. She lets out a sigh, and then stands up tall. “Now that I know you guys don’t blame me, I’m ready to tell the rest of the Underground what happened as well.” She waves the amalgamates to come close. “Come on, everyone. It’s time for me to take you all home.”

[sombrz]

Hello please talk about king explosion murder

THE BOY!!!!!

can you believe i spent months trying to be lowkey about my bakugou ships? it took me a while to even admit he was my favourite despite the fact i knew from the start i’d end up a bakugou stan. i never had a ‘oh no this kid’s a mean terrible person’ phase - it was a ‘oh, i can’t Reveal my character tastes like this. not like this.’ phase.

this got…..long. so uh. under the cut it goes:

ANYWAY: i ship bakugou with…..uh…….a lot of characters. kiribaku is the easiest to explain - dumbass jock boyfriends who do shit like baku using kiri as a hammer to make mochi. and kiri being gung-ho about testing his unbreakable mode (which, btw, was motivated by bakugou’s words!!!) by having bakugou fucking. use howlitzer impact on him. you know how i feel about bro ships (hint: i love them). how kiri went from ‘man this bakugou guy is nuts!!! we have to stop him!!!!’ to ‘wow bakugou is so manly and cool and i wanna be by his side’ in the span of (1) one-on-one convo. HE LIKES BAKUGOU SO MUCH. IT’S CUTE. LIKE, I DON’T THINK BAKUGOU GETS HOW HAPPY HE MAKES KIRISHIMA LMAO. how bakugou so readily accepted kiri as an equal - bakugou, who only had two categories for people [extras vs rivals], never thought to seriously think of kiri as anything but an ally and a friend, people always talk how kirishima was the first classmate bakugou even bothered remembering the name of, and with reason, since it says a lot. kiri’s got quite a bit of mlm subtext going on, tbh, and bakugou’s the source of almost all of it. soooooo there’s that too. 

but i’ve also fallen Deep into bakudeku. it’s the shared development, okay. the history and complex emotions and the slowburn to becoming partners. there’s just so much, and they’re so ENTRENCHED in each other. for better or worse, for how much they might dislike the fact they can’t stop thinking about each other, they just can’t help it. they couldn’t understand each other at all but somehow still knew the other inside and out. and deku’s been so smitten since he was like a baby 3 year old and it breaks my heart. it’s honestly one of my favourite shounen rival ships bc it keeps subverting your expectations. and every episode/chapter that deals with their issues and nudges them closer to the ideal - the endgame - is guranteed to be among the best. they’re the backbone of the series, and i love watching them grow together. the fact that they’re currently HEALTHY RIVALS AND TENTATIVE FRIENDS (like deku feels so comfortable gushing over bakugou to his face again and bakugou is so invested in deku’s improvement & is only snappy w/ him out of reflex lmao)….that bakugou is deku’s secret keeper and deku is the one person bakugou allows himself to be vulnerable around……HOO BOY. i just imagined bakugou holding out his hand for deku to take - or accepting deku’s hand at all - and died.

ALSO, TODOBAKU….my darkhorse ship, which hit me in the face one day when i realized how a) hilarious they are together and b) how the series keeps shoving them together (sometimes literally - thanks slidin’ go for giving them the group hug they deserved). i love how they’re so different yet similar - bakugou is loud and obnoxious while todoroki is stern and quiet, but they’re both rude prodigies who needed to be jumpkicked into realizing that they could become better people with the help of others instead of letting anger and bitterness swallow them up. and the provisional exam course made it so they were forced to hang out with each other 95% of the time for three whole months and i LIVE FOR THAT. i love how funny they are - todoroki is snarky & doesn’t even bat an eyelash over bakugou’s tantrums but genuinely tries to be nice and make friends with him! bakugou is so petty and wants todoroki’s attention soooo bad but don’t think i haven’t noticed that most times we’ve seen him genuinely smile has been in todoroki’s presence (ok, then todoroki reacts to it and bakugou instantly goes back to a snarl but STILL). also the fact that the narrative doesn’t want us to forget that bakugou eavesdropped on todoroki telling deku about his family, and bakugou is always Alert and keeping an eye on todo whenever endeavour is involved bc he’s sympathetic and y’know??? cares????? SO GOOD. AND THEY’RE SUCH A GOOD TEAM - SURPRISINGLY IN SYNC AND THEIR QUIRKS MATCH UP AND I LOVE THEM!

GOD, HORI…..BAKUGOU/URARAKA WOULD BE SO GOOD. like, can you *imagine* the sheer potential of a ship that you only really have them interact during one goddamn tournament fight and yet it becomes arguably the most popular het ship in your series (w/ only the main character and his canon love interest as real competition????) i love them though, like,,,,i find it so interesting that uraraka has shown, despite again - minimal onscreen interaction - that she understands bakugou better than most. she knows how he’d handle their fight and uses that to her advantage. (and while she still lost, she gained his respect and a new drive to get stronger!) she’s the one who brings up how HE’D feel about the plan to go rescue him - that his pride would prevent him from easily accepting help. i’m desperately trying to figure out a way they could animate that omake where uraraka plants herself in deku’s seat and demands that bakugou bury the hatchet with him while gently but firmly calling him out for his root issue of fear and his defense mechanism of violently pushing deku away. and it managed to calm him down and honestly, i wouldn’t be surprised if he ruminated on those words for a while. IT’S SO GOOD, WHY WASN’T IT IN THE STORY ITSELF!!! and like, the mere fact he respects her a lot and ended up *psyched* to continue fighting her - and after he’s told deku had nothing to do with her plan, i don’t think he’d make that mistake again, which makes it easier for him to understand her back. he knows she’s smart and talented and that everyone else was wrong to underestimate her. also, i love that uraraka thinks bakugou is like…..funny? he’s out there threatening to murder kaminari and uraraka’s like ‘hahaha :’’)))’ bc she has such a Bro/vulgar sense of humour. like, i think they’d have a lot of fun together. LET THEM TALK MORE, PLS!!!!

THOSE ARE MY MAIN SHIPS BUT I ALSO SHIP HIM WITH THE REST OF THE BAKUSQUAD! BOTH PLATONICALLY AND ROMANTICALLY! I HAVE NO SHAME! baku/kami is so underrated and great - kaminari is just as much bakugou’s bff as kirishima is, tbh, and he has absolutely No Chill which makes their interactions - especially the further the story goes and bakugou’s edges soften - so much fun. one moment, he’ll be casually commenting that bakugou is the worst and needs to change his whole rotten personality - then the next second, he’ll be sprawled all over him, calling him kacchan and defending his honour from actual haters. and bakugou just fucbdhfhd lets this happen. bakugou likes kaminari enough to just let him. do whatever the hell he wants. ALSO, THE BAND. admittedly, sero is the only one with enough common sense and actual standards to avoid dating bakugou (’HE’LL NEVER BE BEAUTIFUL’ ghdhfhd sero) but i still adore them. sero’s so tricksy and loves playing the reverse psychology trick on bakugou, who just constantly falls for it. i bet he was the first person bakugou let just hang out in his room, and he probably appreciates that sero actually gives him his space when he needs it! i can’t believe baku/sero is the Real ‘bakugou pining’ ship. @ hori: GIVE MINA AND BAKUGOU ACTUAL INTERACTIONS, GDI. i’m forced to headcanon their whole dynamic from near-scratch. whereas kiri and kami are more the type to glue themselves to bakugou’s back, i imagine mina’s the type to actively drag bakugou along places. she probably cried when she found out that a) his parents are rich designers (’BUY ME CLOTHES, BAKUGOUUUU’) and b) his glycerin-based quirk and taking after his mom means he usually has perfect skin and has never broken out in his life. she doesn’t speak to him for a week until he takes her out to dinner and buys her a cute dress. and i’m super fond of baku/jirou. i love that their dynamic is like…..while the rest of their friends are doing dumb shit For The VineTM, they’re on the sidelines waiting for shit to hit the fan. they’re punk buds and prob do that couples clothes switch thing a lot just to see if anyone notices. jirou bosses him around and he takes all her advice seriously and like, they trust each other! they have great team synergy! she was the first person bakugou both consciously protected and asked to protect him in turn!! DID I MENTION THE BAND?? i also ship him with camie! it’s just such a funny concept to imagine - like imagine you’re in class 1A and bakugou shows up out of nowhere with a hot girlfriend who talks. like that. and she makes him laugh??? and no, seriously, does he actually understand what the hell she’s saying???? WHAT’S HAPPENING. but yeah, she very casually teases him but also seemed comfortable w/ him right off the bat and i know in my heart that bakugou relented and let her have his phone number. also, i find it funny people started shipping him with shindou after bakugou was the one to call him out for being duplicitous. bakugou’s the type of character that just needs to interact with another character once and *someone* out there will be like ‘what if………..they were dating’ and that’s so valid of them.

good bakugou ot3/ot4s: kirishima/bakugou/uraraka, todoroki/midoriya/bakugou, todoroki/inasa/camie/bakugou. i reblog a looooot of kirishima/kaminari/bakugou and bakugou/uraraka/midoriya even tho i don’t actually ship either as an ot3 that much, oops? they’re good ships tho.

is there something i’m missing? I MIGHT BE MISSING SOMETHING.

[bthenoise]

Read What Members of Taking Back Sunday, Anti-Flag, Atreyu & More Picked For Their All-Time Favorite Warped Tour Memories

If you’ve ever attended the Vans Warped Tour, there’s a very good chance you’ve accumulated some sort of life-long memory. Be it positive or negative, it’s difficult to walk through Kevin Lyman’s world-renowned punk rock summer camp and not take away something memorable. 

Like most of you reading this at home, the bands who have graced the Warped Tour stages throughout its illustrious 25-year career have also garnered some pretty special memories as well. 

Take Sleeping With Sirens frontman Kellin Quinn, for example. From attending the traveling festival as a high school student to years later playing the main stages, Quinn has been able to make quite a career for himself thanks to Warped Tour.   

“My first Warped Tour memory was in 2004,” Quinn tells us at Warped’s recent 25th-anniversary show in Atlantic City. “I was in high school and I went to Warped Tour in Michigan and I got to see The Used. I saw Bert [McCracken, vocalist] jump off these crazy speaker stacks into the crowd, which is nuts. I got to meet Underoath and I got to watch From First To Last. That was the first time I ever saw [guitarist/producer] Matt Good and now me and Matt are really good friends.”

Talking with more Warped Tour vets in Atlantic City like members of Taking Back Sunday, Anti-Flag, Memphis May Fire, Atreyu and more, we were able to hear about some pretty interesting Warped Tour experiences -- like the impossible task of playing after Green Day or when somebody almost burned their bus down due to excessive fire shots.

To read what the seasoned musicians had to say about their unforgettable summers on the Warped Tour plus their heartfelt goodbye to Lyman’s influential and iconic festival, be sure to see below. For more Warped Tour coverage from Atlantic City, head here.   

Chris #2 - Anti-Flag

Favorite Warped Memory

My favorite Warped Tour memory of all time? That is really, really hard because we've done 11 Warped Tours. So I'm going to give you a top three and I'll keep them all very short. I loaded Eminem's gear onto his stage so I could watch him because he had a closed stage and his set was really cool. That was in '99. In 2000, we played last in Pittsburgh after Green Day and that was -- Green Day is my favorite band of all time and I wouldn't be here without [them]. Pittsburgh is our hometown so our entire families were on the stage, Green Day's drums are burning and they're like, "Okay Anti-Flag, good luck!" And the show was great so that was a really great experience. And then the last one, maybe being 2004. The whole focus of our show was about the re-election of George W. Bush and trying to influence people to get involved and get engaged and there was a record number of people registered to vote on that summer tour. It felt like there was real power in the music and the community of Warped Tour and that was something that I think if we harness [and] if we keep that part alive throughout all of this, then it will be worth something. To this day, we meet people who were registered to vote at those shows and are still active and still empathetic and to me, that's the win of it all.

Least Favorite Warped Memory

Okay, so we played after Green Day twice. We closed the main stage twice on that tour. The second one was in Philadelphia. After the show -- we had an amazing, amazing show, one of our best shows ever -- we get off stage and the audience fence is like, right behind the stage and there's a little opening.  Everyone is leaving the show because it's ended and everyone's kind of congratulating us and saying whatever. And then this one guy just says, "Hey, Pat" and Pat turns around thinking that guy's gonna say hi and he just sucker punches [Pat] in the face [laughs] and it was really funny to me because it was like, "Holy shit! Did that just happened?" But also, it was pretty terrible. He didn't get hurt or anything, the kid wasn't that strong. But it was just like the highest high of like, "Oh fuck, we closed the show. We ripped it, it was sick." And then someone punched one of our guys in the face [laughs].

Most Brutal Warped Tour Memory

In 2004, in Florida, there were people who were coming to the shows to fight. They were nationalists. They were, you know, for lack of a better term, searching out people who thought differently than them and tried to fight them. They all were wearing mouth guards. We started playing, we saw this happen and we just stopped. We had a 30-minute set and we were silent for about 17-20 minutes of the show. We were not going to play another note until the violence stopped because we're not a jukebox for violence. And eventually, people realized they were getting kicked out of the show and the shit wasn't going to fly and we were able to move on but that was one of the more brutal and testy moments in Warped Tour history.

Who was the first band you remember being starstruck by or just excited to be spending the summer with on Warped Tour?

It was definitely Green Day. But also in that same year was NOFX and Weezer for me. And that's insane. You know, that was the year where we signed to Fat [Wreck Chords] because Fat Mike saw the shows and he was wanting to invest in the band and help us. On the very first day of Warped Tour, I met Billie Joe Armstrong. And I said, "Hi, I'm a tremendous fan of your band. I play in a band called Anti-Flag." And then he asked me how the politics of Anti-Flag were lining up with doing a corporate-sponsored tour like Warped Tour and my head exploded [laughs]. I was like, "First off, you know who we are? Second of all, you know the politics of our band?!” So I gave him some bullshit answer that I'm sure I would use in an interview or whatever just to get out of there. Then I randomly called home like, "Billie Joe Armstrong knows who we are!" But yeah, being around that and seeing the humility of Green Day, it led to us later playing with them on the American Idiot Tour and doing some other things with them. I'm forever grateful for Warped Tour providing me that experience. Because, if it wasn't for seeing [Green Day] on TV -- because I loved music and I wanted to be around music -- it never crossed my mind that I was able to do it. And then I saw this person who had pimples and he looked like me and it wasn't that far off. They were just normal folks on TV and they did it. So why the hell couldn't I? That's why we take our shit into the crowd at the end of every show. That's why we've really worked to just destroy the barrier between audience and stage. For lack of a better reason other than we're just four assholes from Pittsburgh, anyone can do this.

Final Words To Warped Tour

Obviously, we want to thank Kevin for working as hard as he has over 25 years. We've been a part of a lot of [Warped Tours] and they're a big reason why the band has the history that we have in America. I'm hopeful that as it manipulates and manifests itself into whatever it is in the future, that we can be a part of it. But if nothing else, I hope that the people exposed to Warped Tour -- those that played it, those that put it on, those that worked in catering, those that came and were patrons and walked through the door -- that the idea can live on beyond the show. There is no band hierarchy. There is no separation between audience and band member. The people that built this thing are of this community and so any person who's out there who's got a song in their heart, anyone who's out there who gives a fuck about more than just themselves, you can do this. I'm just hopeful that the next version of it is just as empathetic and just as cool.

Matty Mullins - Memphis May Fire 

Favorite Warped Memory

I would say my favorite Warped memory is the Warped Tour 25th anniversary today on the Monster stage at 2:20pm. Honest to God, bro. I've said this for years, my favorite show that we've ever played was Sydney, Australia [at] Soundwave. It was just unbeatable in my head [and] today beat it. I think this is my favorite show we've ever played. I mean, [today was] a taste of Warped instead of doing the whole summer, which I think makes it that much more special. But I mean, like, how many times can a band like ours be a part of something that sold 35,000 tickets? It's just not an opportunity that most people will ever get in their lifetime. I mean, dude, the sea of people and the actual sea to the right of it, it was just insane man. So yeah, today was my favorite Warped Tour memory ever.

Least Favorite Warped Memory

Worst memory ever? Gotta be careful with that one Kevin's gonna read this [laughs]. My least favorite Warped Tour memory ever was probably our bass player Cory broke his pinky right before we went out. It was his left pinky right before we left for Warped Tour the first year we ever played it and he had a big cast around his two fingers. We really stressed out about it. That doesn't sound that crazy. I don't know. I love Warped Tour. Nothing bad. Nothing bad about Warped Tour.

Most Brutal Warped Tour Memory

Las Vegas, Nevada. Las Vegas, Nevada on the blacktop down on the strip was dangerous how hot it was. Like the heat coming off of the blacktop was like 130 degrees. That was brutal, bro. I've never played a show where I actually thought I might die and that was one.

Who was the first band you remember being starstruck by or just excited to be spending the summer with on Warped Tour?

I don't get starstruck very easily just because I was raised in such a different genre of music. But MXPX was a huge deal for me. So when Mike Herrea was playing with Goldfinger and I met Mike and just got to hang with him, I mean, that was a starstruck moment for sure.

Final Words To Warped Tour:

Gonna make me tear up, man. Thank you for this community. To Kevin [and] everyone behind the scenes, but also to everyone that came to Warped Tour, everyone is part of this community. This will never die, the memories will live on but also the relationships that we've created will always live on. We would not be the band that we are today if it wasn't for Warped Tour and the four years we got to play it. So thank you. Thank you for everything.

Kellin Quinn & Jack Fowler - Sleeping With Sirens

Favorite Warped Memory

Kellin: I have a lot of favorite Warped Tour memories. So I think just being a part of the tour is my favorite memory. You know, like every time we come in and we're a part of Warped Tour and we get to see our friends and our family, it's always just a really good time for us.

Jack: Yeah, the first Warped Tour we ever did we were on the Monster Energy stage, not the main stage. Being out there every single day and seeing people show up, it was like the first summer tour we ever did. We were like, "Oh my god, something's happening! Like it's actually happening." So I think it's 2012 Warped, one of my favorite Warped Tours.

Least Favorite Warped Memory

Kellin: My worst Warped memory is knowing that there are only two more Warped shows left! It feels weird knowing that something I grew up going to, something I got to be a part of, is actually ending.

Jack: My least favorite Warped Tour memory was when we were trying to do flaming shots with Everclear and I accidentally blew one too hard and almost caught our whole bus on fire. Like a wall just went up in flames. And I was like, "Well, I'm not going to do this shit anymore."

Most Brutal Warped Tour Memory

Jack: Someone got struck by lightning in West Palm Beach one year. That's pretty brutal. One time we started a song and had to stop halfway through and had to restart the song. That's pretty brutal.

Kellin: Yeah, that was brutal. I had kids mudslide down a hill one time. It was raining. That was pretty sweet.

Jack: But that wasn't that brutal.

Kellin: It wasn't brutal. But maybe those kids getting in their parents' car after the show, [that] might have been brutal for the seats.

Who was the first band you remember being starstruck by or just excited to be spending the summer with on Warped Tour?

Jack: The first Warped Tour I went to I walked in and As I Lay Dying was playing and I was like, "This. Is. Incredible." So As I Lay Dying was my first like Warped Tour memory.

Kellin: I'd say for me, probably Every Time I Die because [when] I was a kid I bought an Every Time I Die CD, and I can't remember which one it was right now, but it had a DVD with them on it too. It was like them by their pool, like cooking food and like live stuff. So just getting to see their live show [in person] was awesome and we really love those dudes now.

Final Words To Warped Tour:

Kellin: Warped Tour, you've been amazing. You've been kind. You've been hospitable. We love you. Thank you so much for having us for so many years.

Jack: Thank you Kevin, Lisa, Kate and all the other people who have made this tour possible. So happy we were able to be a part of it for so many years, we couldn’t thank you enough.

Brandon Saller - Atreyu

Favorite Warped Memory

All-time [favorite] Warped Tour memory? That's so hard. I feel like my first time I ever went to Warped Tour was -- I can't remember the year it was so long ago. It was in Anaheim when they used to do it outside of the Arrowhead Pond which was weird becuase it was like half under a freeway but I remember seeing like Papa Roach and AFI and like so many bands that I obviously wanted to see. But it [was] the first time I was ever exposed to something like [Warped where] it's just something on such a massive scale and like everywhere you look rad bands are playing. 

Then playing it for the first time, the vibe was awesome. That year was like the golden year I think for me. It was us, My Chem, Fall Out Boy, Avenged Sevenfold, Underoath, Motion City Soundtrack. So many great bands. [*Noodles of The Offspring walks by*] They were on it. Transplants were on a bunch of dates, it was just like on and on and on so it was cool to be part of that. I remember we played our home show and we played early that day. There was a bunch of traffic getting in so me and I think Dan [Jacobs, guitarist] or someone was on stage waiting to go on and the rest of our band was literally running up the hill ‘cause the traffic was so bad. They had to run like two miles up the hill and we ended up going on like four minutes late. That was a good memory.

Least Favorite Warped Memory

There aren't many bad ones, you know? [Warped] is always hot. The catering lines are long, but that's just part of the deal. It's a good time. There's always such good hangs. Like even the last one we did a few years back, Good Charlotte was on it and we're really good buddies with them. So [it’s] just like hanging out with friends you don't get to see all the time, you know? It's a vibe, Warped has always been a cool vibe.

Most Brutal Warped Tour Memory

I think the hottest it's been on a Warped show [for us], I think was maybe around like 110 on stage. It was pretty brutal. It's just brutal all day. Like, I’m usually a five-shirt-a-day kind of dude on Warped. Like it's a system. You wake up in the shirt you wore last the night before. That lasts you until you get back from catering because after that walk you're sweaty. You change into a new shirt, wear that until showtime. Put on a show shirt, then after the show put on the shirt you had on before the shirt show. That should last you another like two hours untill the other catering walk. And then there's like a nighttime shirt which you wear till the next morning. It's just non-stop sweat. I'm a big dude.

Who was the first band you remember being starstruck by or just excited to be spending the summer with on Warped Tour?

I think on that first one we did in '05, obviously, bands like Transplants are crazy because it was like Tim Armstrong and Travis Barker. Like, whoa. I remember being a big My Chem fan and then on that tour, kind of becoming friends with them. There were a lot of bands that were in our genre exploding. So it was like, I think just the general awe of being around so many people who you don't know yet. There's always that weird barrier of like, "You know what band I'm in and I know what band you're in but we don't know each other yet so it'll be awkward for two weeks and then we'll become friends." It's like a lot of that where it's not necessarily maybe “starstruck” but it's just like, “I want to talk to that dude, I like that guy's band but it's not the right time yet.” You have to find that right moment in line on the way to catering or like at the coffee. A lot of the My Chem dudes, like me Gerard and Mikey would always meet at the coffee machine because we were the three dudes in like black pants and t-shirts getting coffee in 110-degree weather. So that was our common ground.

Final Words To Warped Tour:

It's been a great chunk of time. I have a feeling that hopefully, you know the sparkle will stay alive with these kinds of anniversary shows and stuff like that. But I mean, you can see it today, this is the biggest and best lineup I've ever seen Warped Tour have ever and it's like this is how you're going out? It's kind of going out with a bang, you know? It’s awesome.

Adam Lazzara & John Nolan - Taking Back Sunday

Favorite Warped Memory

Adam: One of my favorite Warped Tour memories of all time was there was a show, and it was at Randalls Island in New York. Whenever the tour went through New York, everyone would try to go into the city afterward so I stayed back. Most of all the tour was gone, so it was just abnormally quiet. It was actually kind of nice. So I'm sitting out beside the bus in one of those folding camping chairs and then I just hear kind of like this rumble. I'm looking around like, "What is that?" And then there's like this big thing of hedges, like bushes, and then you just see them start to rustle. It was like a movie, I couldn't believe it. And then out from the middle of the bushes comes Tucker Rule [drummer, Thursday] with a cigarette and beer driving with his knee just as fast as this golf cart could go. And so as he's going by, he looks and sees me and just goes, "Hey!" and takes off. So I'm sitting there like, "Well, that was fun." And then five minutes later here comes their tour manager and he comes tearing around the corner and stops and says, "Adam, have you seen Tucker?!" I'm like, "That way!" and then he just takes off after him. I'm not sure how it ended but neither of them were supposed to have the golf carts. It was real fun.

John: So in 2007, I was on the Warped Tour with Straylight Run at that time, and a guy in one of the bands comes up and knocks on the door of our bus. And I had kind of seen him around, you know, but it was vaguely familiar. And when he knocks on the door, I answer and he asked for a wine opener and I'm like, "Yeah, come on in" and I get him the wine opener. We kind of talk for a minute or two. And then I turned around and Shaun [Cooper], the bass player for the band, is just like wide-eyed and like in awe and he's like, "Do you know who that was!?” I'm like, "No, I don't know." He's like, "That's so and so from Bad Religion!" He's like...

Adam: Brian Baker.

John: Brian Baker, yeah. Like, I know who Bad Religion is but like I've never really like spent any time -- but yeah, [Shaun] was like starstruck and I lent him a bottle opener.

Adam: And now you guys are best friends.

John: Now we're best friends.

Least Favorite Warped Memory

Adam: Anytime you have to go to the bathroom during the day ‘cause it's like porta-potties. So like, okay, say doors open at 10, right? Or what? 10-11 in the afternoon? No, like noon. So doors open around noon. Now come like seven o'clock at night. That thing's just been sitting out in the Florida heat. And you need to use the restroom and that's the only one in sight, man. Your next best option is to walk 20 miles in any direction until you find one. So that's your only choice.

John: What about the trick that someone developed where you put a lock on the door but the door is actually open. It fools people into thinking it's locked. So it's like...

Adam: Oooooh. Like the like green, red thing and then so you think...

John: No, no, no, like an actual...

Adam: Padlock?

John: A padlock. But it won't be closed through the whole thing and locked. It's just sitting there to give the illusion of being locked. And you tell your friends "Hey, this one looks like it's locked but it's not. Yeah, porta-potty number four."

Adam: My thing with that is I would feel really bad about it for the first half of the day or like the first half of the tour and then at the end, I'd be like, you know, that's my fucking porta-potty. I can't do that shit anymore.

John: Taking Back Sunday played the whole Warped Tour in 2012 and towards the end of it, we had a show and it was probably like two in the afternoon. It had to be like 100 degrees. We'd been on Warped Tour forever at that point and I had definitely been drinking way too much the night before. I was probably only up for like an hour or two and barely hydrated or anything. Halfway through the set, my heart is pounding like harder and faster than it ever has. Sweat is pouring out of my body and I'm feeling dizzy and lightheaded. I literally was like, "I think I might die. This might be the way that I die." And then another part of my brain was like, "It's okay if we die like this. It'll be fine. At least you won't feel this way anymore."

Most Brutal Warped Tour Memory

Adam: Most brutal? I mean, the first place my head goes is to the heat because like Phoenix, Arizona. Ray threw up.

John: That's what I was gonna say.

Adam: Someone else on our crew passed out. I just felt so bad for everyone in the crowd because...

John: I think it was literally like 112 degrees or something.

Adam: Yeah, it was hot. I was wearing Chuck Taylors. And then as we were playing, when I would go do this [*lifts legs*] each time, it was like I had suction cups on my feet because my feet were melting to the stage.

Who was the first band you remember being starstruck by or just excited to be spending the summer with on Warped Tour?

Adam: Well, walking around [with] those NOFX or Bad Religion guys -- you know, that was a big deal. The first time we did Warped Tour it was in 2004, back when we were 13 years old. It was just crazy to be there and see those guys walking around because it's like, I felt that we were best friends already because I listened to their music so much.

Final Words To Warped Tour:

Adam: I'm really proud of you, Warped Tour. Really proud of you.

John: I'm glad you're still here. Is this the anniversary?

Adam: Yeah. 25 years.

John: 25 years? Congrats Warped Tour on 25 years. We didn't get you anything but we showed up so there's that.

Juliet Simms

Favorite Warped Memory

Okay, so it was 2011. I was doing Warped Tour acoustically. I was promoting my band Automatic Loveletter’s record The Kids Will Take Their Monsters On and I was on the Ernie Ball stage. It was about two weeks into the tour and I started to notice this very tall, very feminine, statuesque-type mannequin man appearing at my sets [with] big black long hair, crazy black eyeshadow and red lipstick. I was like, "What are you doing here?" And he had his security guard Yani with him at the time and they came to a couple sets. So one night, I wrapped up my set, was packing up my acoustic guitar and Danny Worsnop [vocalist, Asking Alexandria] had been watching and he's with his girlfriend at the time and he was like, "Oh, Juliet. I just love your music so much." He's like, "I've been a fan since I was in high school." I was like, "You're Danny Worsnop. Cool! This is awesome." 

You know, a funny thing about my band Automatic Loveletter: We never got really big but I always found that musicians really liked my band. So it's a pretty nice compliment [and] it would always surprise me because we weren't that big. And so when like, rock stars are coming to watch me play I was like, "Oooooooooh my god, I'm kind of a big deal, maybe?" So [Danny] was like, "Hey, do you want to come back for drinks after you're done? And I was like, "Sure, no problem!"

Wait, I'm skipping something so important. Before the Danny thing. The day before, I decided to go and check out [Andy Black’s] Black Veil Brides set because he had been coming to mine. I was like, "Well, I'll see what they're all about blah, blah, blah." Side note, guys. Andy and I had met in 2007 on a double date. He was with his girlfriend and I was with my boyfriend and his girlfriend was an actress and she loved my band and I loved her movies. We met on Twitter and decided to go on a double date. Okay, cut back to 2011. Andy and I didn't really like each other. At first, we did. At first, we got along so great. I hung out with his girlfriend just like three or four times, not that much. But we would get along really, really well and we would share tour stories and our love for music and all that. And then his girlfriend didn't like that so much. She did the shit-talking thing to him about me and then vice versa, me about him. So basically, we were like, "Ah fuck you." We were kids. You know how kids' minds work, we were very young. 

And so that's why I was really shocked when [Andy] was showing up at my sets. I was like, "We don't like each other. What are you doing here?" So I went to go and mad dog him and stare him down basically at his set. I went side-stage and I was standing there and he's on stage with Black Veil Brides and they've just got a sea of fucking people and I was like, "This motherfucker. He passed me!" And Andy's running around singing doing his thing and I'm just standing there with my arms crossed, just kind of glaring at him. And he looks over at me and he just gives me one of those fucking shit-eating grins that are just so fucking cute. My arms just dropped and I was just immediately like, "Oh my gosh, he is the most beautiful thing I've ever seen in my entire life." 

So then the next day, when Danny came over and invited me to his bus for drinks -- we're back to that part of the story. So I went to Danny's bus later that night and I open the door and I see Danny and his girlfriend and then the only other person on the bus was Andy. And Andy goes, "It worked!" He grabs a bottle of Jack and he goes, "We need to go talk" and I was like "Okay." So we went outside and we ended up sitting in the grass for like -- bus call that night was like 4am -- we sat and talked for seven or eight hours just about everything. We talked about what his girlfriend had said to him (they were broken up), we cleared that all up. I'm like, "Oh my god, that never happened. I never did that." And we just fell in love, that night. The next day, we told each other we were in love with each other. The following day, I moved onto his bus and two days after that, he asked me to move in with him after the tour. And then that was it, we've been together ever since. The rest is history. We've been together for eight years. Two months after we got together -- I've never told anybody this, we've never told anybody this -- we eloped in Vegas but we were so drunk at the time that we were not organized about it. It wasn't official -- we had gotten the marriage certificate but we had no witnesses and nobody signed the papers. It wasn't official. So that's why we had a real wedding in 2016. But yeah, we met and fell in love on Warped Tour, eloped in Vegas two months after.

Whose idea was Vegas?

Um, well, we were already engaged because he proposed like, five minutes after we got off the bus in LA. We were at dinner one night, this was right before I was going to audition for The Voice. We were just talking about when we wanted to get married and when it made sense and we were just looking at our schedule and he was going to be on tour for like 10 months. And he goes, "Let's just go to Vegas tonight." He's like, "Yeah, I want to marry you tonight. I want to marry you tonight." And I'm like, "Okay" so he's like, "Check [please]!" And we drove off to Vegas. It's pretty storybook, fairytale-esque."

Least Favorite Warped Memory

Oh man, that's a gross one. Oh my God. I mean, I have some really bad [stories]. Okay, guys. Listen, it is not easy being a woman on a festival tour, especially Warped Tour. So you wake up, you don't know when you're fucking playing. You know, you got to get your face together, be presentable. You have to go to the bathroom. You have your woman things. You get your period every month. It's very hard being a woman living on a bus on a festival tour. So that said -- oh my god this is so bad I don't even know if I should tell this, people are gonna think I'm disgusting. I won't go into too much detail but I was running to stage, I hadn't gone to the bathroom and we were the first band playing that day. And all of a sudden, I was like, "Oh, no, no, no." I had to use the restroom but what also happened at the same time was lady time. I didn't have a tampon on me so I had to make one. I had to run into a porta-potty and like Chuck Norris that shit [laughs]. Then I went on stage, did my thing and then handled it after. A girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do to not bleed into her pants in front of five people. So that was pretty shitty. And then I've thrown up a few times because it's been really hot and your body is falling apart. You go, "excuse me a second," run to the back of the stage, vomit a little bit and run back on. That was back in the day before I was -- I'm sober now. Me and Andy have not drank in over three years. But you know, back in the day, we were wild. You drank every day, you drank every night and you wake up and your body feels like shit. So of course, in 110-degree weather, you're going to get on stage and five songs in your body's going to go, "Okay, well remember last night? It's coming up now."

Who was the first band you remember being starstruck by or just excited to be spending the summer with on Warped Tour?

Hayley Williams from Paramore. She's like, a vocal Goddess to me. So being on tour with her is amazing. Katy Perry. That was awesome. Katy and I had actually done a couple of gigs in LA together before she was Katy Perry. Like, she was playing acoustic and I was playing acoustic and we'd play shows together two or three times. So it was cool to see her and watch her just blow up on tour. Not jealous at all [laughs]. Who else? Blink-182. Blink-182 was my first rock show. When I was 11 or 12, Bad Religion was opening up for them and I begged my parents "Pleeeeease." So they got me a babysitter to take me. Come on, I was 11. I wasn't gonna go to rock show alone. So they found like an adult supervision-type babysitter and it was me and my brother and my girlfriend. This is my first rock show so I didn't know -- I bought third-row seats and I was like, "Oh my God, we're going to be right up at the stage! I'm going to be able to look at Mark and Tom and it's gonna be fucking awesome." And we get there, we get to our seats and I was like, "Oh, shit. They're like a mile away!" And I was like, "this sucks!" But when "All The Small Things" came on, everybody in the arena -- it was like a stampede -- just rushed the railing and everybody jumped over and I was like, "Bye babysitter!" So we jumped over the railing and ran to the stage. It was like, "Oh my god, this is fucking awesome." So of course, when they were on Warped Tour and I was on Warped Tour I was like, "11-year-old me right now is on tour with Blink-182. What the fuck!?"

Final Words To Warped Tour:

Okay. Do you know how many farewells I've done to the Vans Warped Tour? I can't believe it, this is not goodbye. But okay, if we're pretending that this is goodbye and not like it's going to be back next summer, I owe this tour everything. Kevin, Lisa, Kate, Julie, everybody, all the crew, all the stagehands, all the sound guys, everybody in production, catering, the bands; I grew up on this tour. I went from being a little girl to a woman. It taught me who I was as an artist. It taught me how to have stage presence, it taught me how to sing, it taught me how to write, it taught me how to live, it taught me how to become a really strong woman. I owe this tour that. I am the strong woman I am today because of these people and this tour. So thank you for helping me find myself.

In case all those memories weren’t nostalgic and heartwarming enough – which we’re pretty confident they were – make sure to check out our full photo review of Warped Tour Atlantic City below thanks to Noise contributor Bryan Meyer.

WATCH MORE:

[housecity101]

Street Gang!AU: Wanna Date?

Okay, I know that this was supposed to be posted since last Friday, but I kept thinking and writing some more, so oh yeah. It’s another long fic ;)!

Another special Chanzaria one-shot for you all, centered around my Street Gang!AU, where Chansin takes Blizzaria on a date, and lots of teenage hormones ensues. So yes, this is pretty much a Human!AU, as you can see that Blizzaria’s name will be changed to “Elizabeth” because...why not? Also, if you squint, there’s special mentions to Chansin and the bros’ parents around here, but that’s going to be developed for another time in my Bros!AU.

Plus, it’s going to be a little steamy near the end, but thankfully, it’s not that much. But if you want the whole big damn thing along with a special smut thing, then PM me if you want. I know you guys don’t want to so okay XD.

But enough about me, enjoy my dumb fic XD!

Chansin felt himself flustering up over looking at his phone on his hands.

He can’t do this. Can he? It would be too freaking embarrassing, really.

I mean, he and Liz had already started to become a couple by a week, and now he’s nervous about asking her on a date. He’s surprised that Liz hadn’t asked him out yet, as she’s probably being patient for him to ask her out first. So he certainly can’t disappoint her. He has to make this call.

Turning on his phone, he scrolled over to his girlfriend’s number before wincing a bit. No, no, he can’t. It’s too late.

“Come on, Chansin, quit being a pussy!” He said to himself before groaning. “Let’s get this over with…”

Elsewhere, Elizabeth was at home in her bedroom, scrolling through messages on her phone until she receives a call from her boyfriend. Eager to answer, she immediately picked up.

“Oh hey, Chansi—“

“Doyouwannagoonadatewithme!?” She heard him speaking so fast.

She then blinked in confusion. “W-what?”

Chansin felt himself slapping his face in pure stupidity. “Aw shit, wait!” He groaned before taking a deep breath. “Look, I know we’ve been together for like what? Days or so? But I was thinking that, you know, we can hang together, alone or something—“

This caused Elizabeth to form a smile. “You mean like going on a date?”

“Ugh…yeah.” He sighed. “God, this is so cheesy…”

He then heard his girlfriend giggle a little over the phone. He hoped that she wasn’t laughing at him, but he’s pretty sure that it was unlikely. “Look, that’s fine. I wouldn’t even mind going out with you. It’s just that I never expected you to ask me out in the first place.”

Chansin chuckled a little. “Actually, I was thinking that you were going to first, seeing how maybe you’re into that romantic stuff more.”

“Well true, but I was waiting to see if you were ever going to ask me instead.” Elizabeth smiled slyly.

“Shit I knew it!” Chansin gasped in an audible whisper. He could hear Liz laughing again as he can’t help but smile. “Okay fine. So uh, when you wanna do it? Like, on a Saturday, or…?”

“Actually, we can do it tomorrow, this Friday.” Elizabeth answered. “My little sister says that she’s going out tonight to see her friends. She said its “personal stuff”.”

“Oh uh, alright?” Chansin could tell that her sister was up to something pretty sinister. She was always evil under those innocent eyes. “Well, I guess we’ll hang by the morrow. I’ll pick you up at six then?”

“Six o’clock is fine! But actually maybe I could walk over to your house instead?” Elizabeth asked.

“Fine by me.” Chansin nodded. “So, I’ll see you then, babe.” He then remembered something. “Oh yeah! I almost forgot!”

“What is it?”

The dark-skinned teen made a sly grin, smirking a little. “Make sure to wear something hot. Y’know, to show who we are?”

Elizabeth groaned, rolling her eyes. “God, you are such a pervert. Ugh, alright.” She then smiled. “Okay, I’ll see you then.”

“Alright.”

After hanging up his phone, Chansin landed on his bed in frustration. “God dammit!” He looked at the ceiling above him, wondering as to how he was even going to do this. He’s not really that type of fancy or charming guy. He was a street punk for crying out loud! He’s pretty much loud, brash, and full of himself. He only expresses his true feelings to Liz and not in public.

He has to do something to impress his babe. Otherwise, she’ll just think that he’s not worth it. But then again, he would rather do something his way. He wasn’t really into taking his girl to fancy dinners and crap like that. He was going to take her into something more rebellious…

By the time Friday rolled around, Chansin exited early out of the school as usual to meet up with the rest of his gang. After telling them the news, they were obviously excited and really proud of him. The gang leader was thankful for the comments, though he did scorned as a few dirty ones. He told them to watch over their base, in case if any rivals or other goons interfered.

When he went back home, he greeted his three older brothers at the living room, receiving a warm hug from Gleam. Their parents were already out on a two-day vacation at another town, so the eldest of the bros was in charge until they get back. Chansin didn’t want to tell them about his date tonight, but after accidentally spilling it out, he had no choice but to tell them really.

And their reactions were obviously expected.

“Aw, I’m so proud of you, little brother!” Gleam beamed, giving him a small hug. “Who is it? What is one of your friends? Elizabeth, is that right?”

Chansin blushed a little, looking away for a bit. “Uh yeah. We’re keeping it cool.”

“WHAT!?” Once he heard the loud cry of his brother Sheen from afar, Chansin simply groaned. Why can’t he just talk about certain females without Sheen breathing on his neck all the time?

He soon faced his slightly-older brother, coming close to him with a glare. “What’s up, Sheen?”

“What’s up!?” His brother yelled at him. “What’s up is that you’re actually dating that blue-haired girl! I was supposed to have a chance with her!”

Chansin just sighed at how much of a pervert he was. He didn’t even bother yelling back at him, he just remained calm as usual. “Eh, whatevehs. All you do is treat women like fucking sex toys.”

Sheen then growled. “THAT’S NOT TRUE—ACK!”

Snee appeared and dragged Sheen away by the ear, ignoring his rants of letting him go. Chansin chuckled a little in amusement as he then walked up the stairs. “If anybody needs me I’ll be getting ready soon for my date or whatever.”

“Oh okay! Just let me know if you need anything!” Gleam called out politely.

And then Sheen just had to ruin it. “And if you’re cancelling your date, let me know so I can have that girl’s number!”

Chansin even groaned louder. He wanted to fight him, but he’s just too focused on his date. However, he heard some cries from Gleam and Sheen, so thankfully that will keep that pervert occupied for a bit.

Five minutes to six on the clock and Chansin was starting to get ready for the night. He just got out of his own bathroom after taking a nice, warm shower. When it comes to going out, it’s usually a shower. But when it comes to the weekend, he puts on some bath bombs to have a nice bath. But that’s only when he feels the need to be pampered. But that wasn’t the time, he wanted to feel like himself.

He didn’t really know what clothes to wear. He obviously doesn’t want to wear a tuxedo to impress Elizabeth, it would be too much. So instead, he put on a white, buttoned shirt with a leather jacket and some blue jeans. Now he feels like himself.

Suddenly, he heard the doorbell rang as he decided to come downstairs, rushing down to make sure that Sheen won’t answer it.

“Who is it?” he called out.

“It’s me!”

Chansin smiled a little. She was finally here.

Preparing himself, he opened the door as she appeared right on his doorstep. Chansin immediately widened his eyes over her looks.

Elizabeth was wearing something rather simple, but pretty. A long casual blue dress with a white sparkly pattern over a jean jacket. Without her little clip, her hair was flowing down nicely, just how Chansin wanted it to be. She smiled shyly at her boyfriend, waiting patiently for his response. She even giggled at him looking shocked. He must be impressed.

“L-Liz…” Chansin spoke up, blushing a little. “You look beautiful…” And then he ruined it. “Aw man! I thought that you were wearing your usual outfit!”

Elizabeth then made a small glare while scoffing. “Oh jesus. You expect me to go outside while looking like a hooker? You gotta be kidding me…”

“Well duh! It’s to represent who we are! But uh…” He turned away a little. “You still look hot.”

Elizabeth then made a smile. “Why thank you.” She said softly. “I’ve never seen you think of me like this before.”

The gang leader groaned a little. “Yeah, so what? I mean, I don’t like to express some mushy feelings towards you in public. I just needed the right time to do that when were together.”

He then heard her laughing again as that managed to make him smile. Everytime she does that just makes him feel good for some reason. He guesses that this is what being together with a romantic partner feels like. Sure, it’s always cheesy but in the end, it just feels great.

They then decide to head out, right after Chansin says goodbye to all three of his brothers first. Sheen didn’t even bother before obviously ogling at Elizabeth, in which he received a beating from his younger brother after that. Gleam gave Chansin a warm hug and gave him some pointers of being safe around the streets and returning home safely. These things would always ignore Chansin, but then again, he understood that his older brother really cares for him. Gleam had told him to return home at 10 once his date was over, but Chansin convinced him to return home at 11, in case his date goes on even longer. This was able to change the eldest’s mind, though he was a bit worried.

Chansin and Liz left the house after that as they walked up to the garage door, where Chansin’s bike was spotted. He then sat on it, motioning his girlfriend to sit next to him. “C’mon!”

Liz can’t help but smile. “Ah, you’re using your bike huh? Why not something cool like a motorcycle or a car?” She said teasingly.

This made her boyfriend glare at her with an annoyed huff. “Yeah yeah, I know! My ride looks like shit! I do want to get a motorcycle, but then again, if I do, then my parents would know that I’m a freaking gang member.”

“Oh, I see.” Elizabeth said.

Chansin then made a grin. “So then, what are ya waiting for? Hop on!”

Elizabeth walked up to the bike as she carefully sat down on her seat, holding on to Chansin’s shoulders as they started to leave out. Chansin blushed once she was holding down on him. It felt so distracting, but rather nice. They were riding the bike down the neighborhood, passing many houses and a few people along the way. All complete with the sun slowly fading into the night. Things like this would always be so peaceful to them, well, in Elizabeth’s opinion.

After a few minutes of silence, Liz spoke up. “So, where are you taking me first?”

Chansin smirked, giving her a devilish grin. “Oh what we’re doing tonight is special.”

Elizabeth was now intrigued. “What do you mean by that?”

“Well you see, since we’re both gang members and all, I’ve decided that were gonna have ourselves a rebellious night!” Chansin explained. “Just you and me!”

“W-what!?” Elizabeth’s eyes widened. “Are you crazy!? We can’t just do something dangerous!? Were seriously going to do that for our date? We could get ourselves arrested!”

Chansin rolled his eyes and chuckled a little. He knew that his girlfriend would object this. “Aw c’mon, babe. You’ve been joinin’ my gang for weeks, and yet, I’m surprised that you still don’t have any rebellious stuff in ya. Well tonight, you’re gonna start having it.”

Liz then facepalmed. “Don’t tell me. We’re going to rob stuff or something? Because I won’t be a part of this…”

And now he got annoyed. “Ugh, geez, it’s not gonna be like that! It’s just gonna be some simple stuff!” He said. “Besides, I’m sure that my rivals are obviously gonna lay on random chicks or mugging shit. But you know I don’t do that…”

“…How come, really?” Elizabeth asked him, wondering as to why.

Chansin looked at her for a sec before making a sigh. “Ah, it’s alright. If I’m making you upset over this, then I’ll just end it here, ‘right?”

“N-no! Don’t do that!” Liz objected. “We can still do our date. We’ll just have fun, our own thing.”

The dark-skinned teen’s expression changed into a smile. “That’s cool. But don’t worry, it’s gonna be great. Trust me.”

Elizabeth smiled as well. There was something about Chansin that she actually admired. Even if he doesn’t want to admit it, he truly shows concern for her the most when no one’s around. Though he is a very troublesome boy, so it’s hard for her to keep her patience on him.

After a few minutes of riding downtown, Chansin spoke up. “So uh, where do you wanna go first? Ya hungry, ‘cause I am.”

“Um yeah, I guess I am hungry.” Liz answered, feeling the same thing as well.

They then stopped the bike at a sidewalk. “Well, how about we order some pizza?”

“Aw, are you sure you don’t want to take me to a nice, fancy restaurant? It would be romantic.” Elizabeth suggested, making a teasing smile.

Chansin thought for a moment before waving it off. “Nah, maybe another time. Besides, we are gonna start something fun together.”

“Ugh, does it always have to be pizza?” Liz groaned.

“Not all the time, but on special occasions, we do order it.” The dark-skinned teen picked up his phone before searching for the pizza place’s number. “So, what toppings do you want again?”

“Well I usually have sausage and olives.”

“Why not mix it with pepperoni?” Chansin grinned.

Elizabeth gave him an annoyed look. “No. I’m not really into pepperoni.”

“Ugh, alright. I’ll just ask for a half and half then. One side your toppings, and my side pepperoni.” He said. “Deal?”

“Deal!” The blue-hair girl simply smiled.

After ordering their pizza, the teenage couple rode their bike down to the local pizza place a few blocks away. Making sure that the bike was parked perfectly, they walked their way to the doors as Chansin open one of them for Elizabeth. “Ladies first.” He said in a sly grin.

His girlfriend made a little giggle. “Why thank you.”

The two then entered inside the building where their pizza was fully ready, being tucked into a plastic bag along with a few napkins. The pizza guy handed Chansin the hot box of pizza, making a small smile. “Here you go, sir. That will be $7.98.”

Chansin nodded once he received the box. “Ah okay, cool. Uh…” Suddenly, his eyes widened as he pointed into something from the back of the pizza place. “Holy fuck is that a bat in the kitchen!?”

The pizza guy turned back, already alarmed. “A bat!? Whe—“ But, there wasn’t no bat. At all.

Once he turned around, he spotted Chansin running away with the box, laughing manically. “YA DUMBASS! Hahaha!”

Elizabeth growled as she instantly facepalmed at her boyfriend’s stupid trick. Feeling sorry for the man, she gave him the exact change to pay for the pizza. “Here you go.” She gave out an apologetic smile, at least, attempting to since she’s feeling enraged at Chansin. “I’m really sorry about that. My boyfriend is always like this.”

The pizza guy smiled as he was given his change. “It’s no problem. Have a good night.”

“You too.” She waved a little at the guy before leaving. And outside into the streets, her screams of rage can be heard once she chases after Chansin. “Chansin, you JACK!! STOP MOVING YOUR ASS AWAY FROM ME!!”

“You want some napkins?”

Elizabeth didn’t even responded at Chansin’s question, but she did took some napkins to wipe her hands before taking another bite of her pizza.

The two of them stopped at a small park, eating their dinner together at a bench. The pizza box was set in the middle as they would take out a slice whenever they please. While taking large bites off of his pepperoni pizza, Chansin can’t help but recall what just happened earlier. He was laughing his butt off when he fooled the pizza guy into stealing some food, and laughed even harder when Elizabeth chased after him. But that quickly ended once he saw her looking angry. Beyond pissed.

Sure, he had seen her go angry at some moments, but this was a whole new low. Liz soon caught him by punching him in the shoulder as payback and forced him to sit on the back while Liz took control in driving the bike. He already knew not to underestimate his sexy yet fierce girlfriend. And he had known this a few times where she had kicked his ass before.

A fucking moron he was.

He soon got out of those thoughts as he waited patiently for her to respond while eating. And then she did.

“I can’t believe you just did that.” She said.

Hearing this, Chansin started to smirk. “Well, so what? I mean I wasn’t really going to steal the pizza anyway. I knew that you would pay for it.”

Elizabeth turned to him with an annoyed glare. “Yeah, but if I didn’t had any money, then we would be freaking arrested on the spot!” She hissed.

Chansin just looked at her calmly as he turned back. “Man, I was just playing around.”

“But that would have gotten us into some serious trouble!” Liz said before sighing. There was no point of arguing with him. He wasn’t in the mood at all. Noticing that their dinner was finished, she picked up the empty box as she got up and threw it away in the trash bin. “Look, let’s just…” She sighed again. “Let’s just go home. It’s getting late anyway…”

But before she could go, Chansin grabbed onto her hand as she looked back at him, her face having a tint of pink.

He looked really concerned, though a bit nervous. He sighed a little before responding. “Listen, I know what I did was fucking dumb, but I didn’t mean to piss you off like that. I just wanted to have some fun with you, that’s all. So maybe…” He then made a grin. “Maybe, I’ll make it up to you?”

Elizabeth looked at him, unsure of what to say. “W-well—ah!” She was then dragged down by him as they approached his bike.

“C’mon, hop on and let me take you out.” Chansin said, smiling at her. “There’s still more time for our date, trust me.”

The blue-haired girl was still not sure about this, but with some reasonable thinking, she responded with a small smile. “…Okay.”

Chansin and Elizabeth let the park a few minutes ago as they were riding their bike to their next stop. Liz really enjoyed holding on to her boyfriend while he’s riding, it made her feel nice, as is she was feeling safe beside him. Chansin on the other hand easily enjoyed it, made him feel proud, but also admired it. Ten minutes in and they soon made it to the local movie theater.

“Well, this is our stop.” Chansin said, as he and Liz got off the bike.

Elizabeth smiled at him. “Oh. So you’re gonna take me out to see a movie, huh~?” She said in a flirtatious tone. “Didn’t know you had it in ya.”

Chansin grinned at her. “What else would I do for you?” He chained his bike tightly onto the bike rack. “Now, follow me.”

Liz was at first rather happy that Chansin was going to see a movie with her. Whatever they watch, they know that they’ll be with each other. But however, her smile slowly faded as she was taken into a dark alley right beside the theater. “Um Chansin, this isn’t the entrance.”

“Oh yes it is, babe.” Chansin smirked. “So you see, we’re gonna sneak into an R-rated movie.”

Instantly, Elizabeth’s eyes were widened. “We’re going to see an R-rated movie!? Are you nuts!?”

“Wait, keep it down for a sec!” Chansin whispered.

“No, I won’t!” Elizabeth whispered back. “We can’t sneak into an adult movie! People might see us and we’ll get caught!”

“Heh, as if those bastards will.” Her boyfriend smirked. “Just follow me and I’ll show you.”

Elizabeth at first wanted to object once again, but still, she does want to make this date a little more “fun”, so what other choice does she have? As long as they don’t get arrested…

She soon followed Chansin to the back of the large building as she looked at the metal door that seemed to be unlocked. “This is the entrance?”

“Yep!” Chansin said proudly. “The gang and I had used this baby before whenever we wanted to see some naughty shit that’s in store.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Why are you such a pervert?”

“Because I am.” Chansin laughed, though his girl was still not amused. He took out a secret key to the door as he struggled to open it until it was finally unlocked. “Damn, I haven’t used this door for a while.” He slowly opened it as the inside was completely dark. “Ladies first?” He grinned at Elizabeth.

His girlfriend was showing some signs of fear. “U-um, well I’m not sure…”

“Why? How come?” He asked her.

“I don’t know! I mean, it looks so dark in the—AAH!” Elizabeth made a small scream as Chansin pushed her in a little. “Chansin!?”

“Don’t worry, I’m here!” He called out to her before closing the door. “I got you, promise…” He even held onto her hand to make her feel a little better.

“God, why is it so dark in here?” Elizabeth asked, feeling a little calm.

Suddenly, Chansin hugged behind Liz. “I don’t know…” he said in a low voice. “Maybe it’s for us to y’know~…” He rubbed on Elizabeth’s body a little, even touching one side of her breasts.

A small slap to one of his hands made him stop instantly.

“Do that again, and I will kill your ass.” Elizabeth threatened him.

Chansin chuckled, though he was quickly reminded of her fierce glare back when he “stole” the pizza. “Easy, Liz. I was just joking.” using his phone as a flashlight, he motioned Elizabeth to another door in the front. “Now this door leads to one of the storage closets. I pray to god that it’s not cramped like last time.”

“Oh? What happened last time?” Elizabeth asked curiously.

“We were walking pass the items, and B3’s large body got himself stuck to one of the props. So we had to pull him out and we were caught after that.” Chansin groaned, grimacing on that forbidden day. He soon heard Elizabeth laughing a little, which soon made him smile again.

Opening the door, he and Elizabeth slowly entered the storage closet, closing the door behind them. Thankfully, the closet wasn’t filled with too many stuff unlike last time. It was a bit easier to walk out. As they reached the closet door, Chansin used the key to unlock it, slowly opening it to see that they were finally inside the theater. “Alright, the coast it clear. So we can move.” He whispered.

The two carefully got out of the closet, closing it while checking to see that nobody was watching. “Well, here we are.” Chansin grinned. “So, you wanna go see some adult flicks?”

“Um, are you sure you don’t want to watch those harmless, little teenage movies that are appropriate for us?” Elizabeth suggested, a little playfully.

Chansin was obviously not amused as he folded his arms. “Yeah, no.” He then grabbed her hand and moved out. “C’mon! I know what we can see!”

“Oh jesus…” Elizabeth groaned, having no choice but to follow him.

The two sneaked their way through the hallways, passing by workers and security guards from keeping them suspicious. Chansin was searching to see which movie he wanted him and Liz to see until he spotted the perfect one. Right in front of them, was one theater labeled “Theater 10”. And the poster that show what movie is playing was entitled “The Witch’s Cauldron”. Chansin instantly grinned in delight. “Aw yeah, this is the one.”

“The Witch’s Cauldron?” Elizabeth read the movie title.

“Yeah! It’s some horror movie the peeps at the school were dying to see!” Chansin’s grin beamed even more. “Check out the rating!”

His girlfriend looked closer at the rating. “Rated NC-17 for adults only—oh god!” She jumped up a little. “We’re going to see an adults only movie!?”

“Hell yeah we are.” Chansin nodded proudly. “This movie features all of that horror bloody shit, but it also has the best parts!”

“Don’t tell me…” Elizabeth felt like slamming her head against the glass-sealed poster.

“All of the sex scenes aren’t censored, at all. It’s gonna be like experiencing a porno for the first time.” He then made a sly grin. “I know you wanna see it.”

Elizabeth was already blushing like mad before shaking her head. “N-no! No way! I’m not gonna see it!”

“Aw c’mon babe, it’ll be great.” Chansin put his arm around her. “And besides, I’ll be right beside you whenever the best parts come in~.”

Elizabeth blushed even harder once he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Not to mention that seductive voice, and that sexy smirk. She felt so tempted. She doesn’t want to do this, but yet, she soon felt her rebellious side coming on her. With a loud huff, she grabbed Chansin’s hand and marched right in. “O-okay! Okay, let’s just go!”

Chansin was at first confused, but now his grin grew wider. “My Elizabeth, I didn’t knew you had it in you~.” he teased her further.

In response, Elizabeth, punched him in the arm again, in which he started to laugh. She groaned as to how rebellious he was, but then again, she was doing this for the both of them.

They silently went inside the theater and observed the entire area. It wasn’t that crowded. There were some people in there, most of them being couples. The two decided to sit together in the back, as it feels more comfortable this way. As they were far from the other people in the front, truly alone together.

“Aw man, there showing previews first.” Chansin whispered. “But that’s cool with me.”

“How come there’s so many couples in here?” Elizabeth asked him, still looking over the guests in their seats.

Chansin turned to her with a devilish grin. “Take one guess.”

Elizabeth didn’t really understood that until she started to blush at what he meant. Now she knew why couples were in here. To make out, and do something more than that. “W-well, we are certainly not going to do it here.”

“Nah, we’re just gonna make out and stuff. I mean, having sex in other places is kinda neat, but it’s not my style. I rather do it in bed, or maybe even the stairs.” Chansin chuckled a little at his joke.

But then Elizabeth asked him a question. A rather lewd one. “…Have you, ever had sex before?”

This little question caused Chansin to turn his face into a crimson red. His girlfriend was looking at him confusedly, but she could tell that he was hiding something. Wanting to stop, he then made a fake grin. “Heh, we’ll there was this one girl…”

“You’re still a virgin.” Elizabeth easily heard through his lies. “Admit it.”

Chansin growled in embarrassment as he choked up a small. “Yes!” And moved himself away from Elizabeth in anger.

Elizabeth meanwhile can’t help but laugh once again.

Later on, the movie had already started as the two of them sat silent over the first half. They wished that the movie would just cut to the best parts already, but then again, they might not even care about the story at all since they’re slowly starting to feel attracted towards each other. They both each took some longing looks at one another before paying attention to the movie.

“Hey,” Chansin whispered. “Do you want some popcorn, or…?”

Elizabeth shook her head. “It’s fine. I’m actually kinda full from the pizza…”

Chansin smiled at her before moving his hand on top of her hers, holding on to it. The duo looked at each other smiling, already feeling some comfort.

By the time, the “best parts” were coming into play, they spotted a few couples starting to make out on their seats. It was slowly starting to spread as all of the couples get into sensual intimacy one by one. Chansin and Elizabeth both felt a little nervous, Chansin especially, since he was feeling the urge to at least prepare it with Liz and just get it on. But he was unsure if she was ready for it. After all, she was only 17 and he was 18. They were too young to do this. But, this is surely supposed to be from Elizabeth’s thoughts. He was all about breaking the boundaries, doing things a more rebellious way. But he doesn’t even know why he was acting this way.

But then again, they’ll just make out, that’s all. They kissed before, it’ll still be alright!

Elizabeth soon felt a bit relaxed as she comforted her head onto Chansin’s shoulder, in which he started to blush. The two looked at each other, completely silent of not knowing what to say. After staring for a few minutes, their faces went closer until they were pulled into a warm kiss.

Both of them felt surprised. But this wasn’t the first time they had their kiss. The first time felt so nice and passionate, so they’re going to do that again. They prepared to kiss again until the sound of a blood-curdling cry alarmed them. But it was just a part of the movie resuming again. The duo looked at each other, blushing nervously, as they chuckled a little.

“Heh, um, sorry about that…” Chansin spoke up breathlessly.

“N-no.” Elizabeth said softly. “That’s fine. You were a really great kisser…” She gasped a little once she felt him kissing on her cheek. She looked back at him with an adorable, nervous smile.

“It’s no prob, really.” Chansin smiled, not afraid to give her that kiss.

They decided to continue watching the rest of the movie until they could hear some whispering from the front seats.

“O-oh, Bobby…! Faster, c’mon…”

“I-I’m trying…”

The couple blushed as they immediately recognized those voices. “Holy shit, that’s Bobby from history class…” Chansin whispered.

Elizabeth added. “And that must be Sara. I thought she hated him but…”

They then can’t help but chuckle as they resumed watching the movie.

It seems that they weren’t the only teens from school watching…

After the movie, the two managed to escape the theater from the main entrance, sneaking pass through workers as on cue.

“Man that movie kinda sucked balls.” Chansin complained. “But at least the effects and sex scenes were cool.” He reached his bike from the rack as he unlocked the chains. “How about you?”

“Well, it wasn’t that bad really.” Elizabeth said before making an annoyed look. “But it’s obvious as to why you wanted me to see it with you.”

Chansin responded with a sly grin. “Well hey, if we did copied those teens, then you would had a better experience watching it.” He then laugh which caused Elizabeth to groan. “So, are you thirsty or something?”

Elizabeth came to that realization as she nodded. “As a matter of fact, yeah. I guess I kinda am.”

“Well hop on and let me get you something.” He said, allowing her to sit close to him.

The two were kept silent while riding their bike into the downtown area of the city. Elizabeth instantly recognized this type of area before. The neon-colored signs, the slightly empty walkways, this was the area where the local nightclubs were. Only the special ones where older teens and young adults would sneak into. Elizabeth had been in one before, where she and Chansin’s gang hanged out at a poker bar and were kicked out when she realized they didn’t had any money. One of the most embarrassing days of her life…

“Wait, you’re taking me to a bar?” She asked him, feeling unsure. “We’re not going to that one before are we? Because we were kicked out that time.”

“Nah, babe, we ain’t going back there again.” Chansin said. “That place was shit anyway. Were gonna go one that has all of these nice drinks.”

Thinking of what he meant by that, her eyes widened. “You mean alcohol!?”

Chansin groaned again. When can she just keep calm for a moment? “Liz, it’s not like that trust me. If you don’t want no beer and crap, then that’s cool.”

Elizabeth sighed. “Of course, you had drank before.”

“Well, only on special occasion!” Chansin gave her a playful grin, in which Elizabeth didn’t shared.

They soon stopped at a small nightclub that had those neon-colored signs showing off. Chansin felt pissed that there was no bike rack so he just hid it deep within the dark alleyways, hoping that no one would steal it.

“Alright, let’s hang!” Chansin grinned as he opened the door for his lady.

Elizabeth smiled a little at his kindhearted gesture before walking inside with him. She really liked it when he always opens the door for her. Showing that he can be a pretty sweet gentleman overall, even though he can be a bit brash. As they entered the building, she was surprised to see so many people in here, dancing to some modern day pop music. She even spotted a few couples grinding each other or even making out in a few corners. It made her feel a little uneasy, but as long as she’s by Chansin’s side, then she’ll be alright.

Her boyfriend leader her to a large bar table as they sat down together in the tall stools. She had a bit of difficulty sitting on them though, but she can manage. Elizabeth watched as Chansin was greeted by the bartender. “What do you want?”

“Just give me a small glass of vodka, but mix it with some lime.” Chansin answered, grinning a little.

The bartender turned to Elizabeth. “And you?”

Elizabeth felt unsure on what to have. She noticed that most of the drinks are definitely alcoholic. She sworn to never drink any beer or wine until she was like 21. But she felt too much pressure in her as she just laid out what she wanted. “G-give me a small glass of lemonade.” She stuttered. “A-and mix it with some vodka!”

As the bartender left to make their drinks, Chansin turned to Elizabeth with a shocked expression, his mouth almost being agape. “Liz…”

Elizabeth realized what she just did as she clasped her hands on her face, blushing in embarrassment. “Oh god! Oh god oh god oh god!” She muffled.

“Hey, it’s cool.” Chansin gave her a smile. “I didn’t knew that you wanted vodka.”

“I didn’t knew why I wanted to drink any alcohol…” Elizabeth sighed.

“Look, you don’t have to drink all of it.”

But that still wasn’t enough to cheer up his girlfriend.

The bartender soon handed them their drinks as Chansin eagerly took a hold of his glass. He turned to Elizabeth, who received her lemonade and felt uneasy about drinking it.

“It’s alright. Just go ahead and take a sip.” Chansin convinced her. “It’s not like it’s gonna kill you.”

Having no other option left, she took a small whiff of it. It does smell like the lemonade she wanted, but it had a hint of the alcohol as wall. She slowly moved the cup towards her lips, and within seconds, she took a quick sip and set it back on the table.

It tasted rather…nice. All she tasted was the lemonade, but nothing from the vodka.

“So how is it?” She heard Chansin calling her as she turned to him, who is wondering if she was alright.

“…It’s…” Elizabeth made a weak smile. “It doesn’t taste bad, really.”

Chansin then made a grin. “Heh, I knew you had it in ya.”

“Knew what?”

“That you’re finally showing off how much of a rebel you can be.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Yeah right, that’s not even true.” She said, folding her arms.

“Weeell, you did had the balls to enter an adults only movie with me.” Chansin snickered, before receiving another punch to the arm.

“Oh shut up!” Elizabeth grinned, already feeling a little better. “That’s because we had no other choice left!” She then whispered. “Though I did wished we did it…”

Unfortunately for her, Chansin had already heard what she said before moving up to her with a sly smile. “Ah, I see now~.”

Elizabeth gasped as she laughed nervously. “D-don’t be stupid! You didn’t heard anything! Just pretend I didn’t said it!” She excused herself before taking huge gulps of her drink to ease her.

As he watched her finishing down her glass, Chansin decided to break her. “Well if you want to do it now, we could if you like~.” She immediately spat out the little droplets in shock as Chansin laughed again.

Elizabeth’s face was to a near-deep crimson as she hit Chansin in the arm a few times, her boyfriend still cracking up over her reaction. “God, you’re a fucking perv!” She shouted at him, starting to laugh as well. But then she stopped once she realized that she had actually cursed. For the very first time in years. She covered her mouth as Chansin gave her an impressed look.

“Man, you must have the guts to say that. I’m really proud of you!” He grinned, giving her a little pat on the back.

“So what, I can swear whatever I want.” She said in a little daze.

“I think it’s the alcohol taking its effect on you.” Chansin said with hints of concern.

Elizabeth’s face blushed as she started to laugh. “Wha? Ah no man!” The alcohol was starting to affect her as she wobbled her body around on the seat. “I’m friggin’ cool!”

Chansin can’t help but snicker a little at her drunken speaking. It was rather funny seeing her like this, and her face was feeling a bit sexy to him. He kinda like her making a sly face. Something he finds to be cool. Wanting to help her up, he held on to Elizabeth’s body to keep her from falling, though he started to blush once she breathed close to his chest. It made him feel tense, like, too tense. Elizabeth’s eyes were already closed until she slowly opened them and looked at Chansin.

The dark-skinned teen’s blush began to deepen. She looked so beautiful, as if she was clinging on to him, demanding him to go all in on her. But wait, why would he really think of that? Something strong was coming from Chansin’s lower region as his eyes widened.

Oh fuck! He thought to himself.

Looking at him for too long, Elizabeth started to make a dopey smile. “Hey, Chansin…”

“Y-yeah?” Chansin stuttered nervously, pushing her back a little, only for her to cling on back to him.

“…Have I ever noticed that you’re fucking sexy?”

And now Chansin was starting to feel a little uneasy. He prayed to god that nobody was staring at them. “Alright Liz, I’m gonna take you out now.”

“Aw c’mon, sexy man!” Elizabeth whined. “I wanna take a look at ya nice face!” She moved up to Chansin, licking her lips in delight. “C’mere, ya big boy~.” She purred in a low tone.

“No wait, Eli—MMPH!?” Chansin tried to reason with her until his lips were smashed so forcefully into Elizabeth’s. He tried to push her out, but in resulting them to land in the floor with a loud thud.

Chansin winced in pain from the hard fall, though he was glad that Elizabeth was left unscathed. She had already started to pass out on top of him, making Chansin blush. He soon started to see some people staring at him, no this was getting embarrassing. He picked up Elizabeth from the floor and carried her out of the nightclub fanatically.

How embarrassing this date had been…

Waking up in a mighty jolt, Elizabeth finds herself already holding on to Chansin, who was riding on his bike with her.

She started to get confused. The last time she was up, she ended up at a nightclub taking a nice drink and now she was here, feeling a little tired. Whatever happened to her a while ago must have not been so pretty. She then noticed that Chansin was riding up to a different location, some part of town she never been to before.

Wanting to break the silence, she called out to her boyfriend. “Chansin?”

Chansin immediately paid attention to her once she called his name. He then turned to her. “Oh good, you’re awake.” He smiled a little. “It seems to me that the alcohol had faded from you fast.”

Elizabeth blinked. “Excuse me?”

“Oh you don’t know? Well, you’ve been drinking some lemonade mixed with vodka and you started to become drunk for like five to seven minutes.” He explained to her, not helping but smirk at the funny yet embarrassing little memory.

“WHAT!?” Elizabeth screamed, almost louder for anybody outside to hear. “I WAS DRUNK!?”

“Heh yeah, you were. As a matter of fact, and I ain’t trolling you or anything, you literally said…” He then repeated what she said to him, talking like her in girly tone. “Have I ever noticed that you’re fucking sexy?” He then laughed again.

Elizabeth almost slapped herself in the face. “Oh my god, why! I actually did underage drinking! Am I a freaking idiot?”

“Nah, not really, but you were pretty cool though.” Chansin responded, trying to at least reassure her.”

“…Are we going home now?” Elizabeth said, hoping that this night would be over already.

“Not yet, because I wanna show you something first.”

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. What is it he wants to show her exactly? She prayed to god that it’s not another rebellious place…

As they were getting into the forest area, Chansin started to smile. “Alright, I want you to close your eyes.”

“Ugh, do I have to?” Elizabeth asked him.

“Why yeah! It’ll ruin the surprise!”

Elizabeth gave out a faint chuckle as she murmured an “Alright, alright…” and did what she was told.

Chansin made it pass through a large hill that was located deep in the forest. He knew that this was a good spot to finish off his date with Elizabeth. “Okay, now get off of the bike but keep closing your eyes!”

“Really?” Elizabeth said but did it anyway, making sure not to fall off.

“Okay, now let me guide you.” Chansin then covered her eyes with his right hand while carrying the bike with his left.

The two of them started to climb up the hill, though there was a few bumps then and there and nearly made Elizabeth fall, but thankfully, Chansin was able to help her out. Elizabeth knew that she was walking on a hill, Chansin wasn’t good of keeping it secret for her. But she still wanted to know how all of this will lead to. As they soon reached the top, Chansin made a grin as he let go of Elizabeth’s face. “Alright, you can open your eyes now.”

Elizabeth soon opened her eyelids just in time to see such an incredible sight. She fully stared at the amazing view of the city before here. It looked so amazing. The city lights gleaming over from down below just makes it even more beautiful.

“O-oh my god…” She can’t help but smile widely.

Chansin chuckled as he stood beside her. “Amazing, huh?”

“Yes! I’ve never been to this part away from town before! How did you manage to find this spot?” Elizabeth wondered, still staring at the sight in awe.

“Well, when I’m alone, I usually come here to just relax and stuff…” Chansin explained. “I mostly visit here late at night, during the summertime, it’s more peaceful that way.” He then sat down on the ground, motioning his girlfriend to do the same. “You wanna sit next to me?”

Elizabeth nodded. “Sure.” as she then sat beside him. She then tensed up once she felt her hand being touched by his, in which she looked at him with a smile, her face having a tint of red.

Chansin sees her as he turns back with a huff, blushing a little while hearing his girlfriend giggle. He then sighed. “…I’m sorry…”

“About what…?” Elizabeth asked softly.

“Ugh, about our freaking date!” he shouted. “I kept making you feel uneasy and I didn’t even realized it until we went to the nightclub!” He sighed again. “I don’t even know why the hell do you even bother being with some guy who’s just a loser. Both sides of the coin…”

Feeling sorry for him, Elizabeth moved closer and comforted him. “I actually had a nice time.”

Chansin scoffed. “Heh, oh really?”

“Yes.” Elizabeth smiled. “Well, I was really upset that you dragged me into some troublesome stuff lately, especially with the fiasco at the nightclub, but that’s okay. Because, the truth is, I really do like being with you. You’re the reason I unexpectedly joined you and your friends anyway. Not that I wanted to mess around, but to at least make new friends, especially with the leader who’s just an adorable jerk.” She teased a little, softly hitting his shoulder.

This was able to get Chansin’s spirits back up once he started to laugh. “Don’t you mean sexy?”

“Nah, you’re always cute in my eyes.” Elizabeth giggled.

But then, Chansin slowly unbuttoned the three holes on his shirt, instantly revealing the top part of his chest. “How about now~?” he said, instantly teasing her.

Elizabeth soon blushed at the sight of his chest. “O-oh god…” Turning away, her blush became heavier. She completely forgot of how attractive Chansin is, which is surprising really. He’s actually quite the looker when it comes to him surviving the hells of gym class, not to mention his usual gang clothes. Those white bandages tightening over that well-built six pack would always make her stare uncontrollably. And the moment he takes off his blue coat, hot damn was it always a sight to see. Elizabeth really wanted that for herself…

“Ah, I see~.” Chansin hugged behind her, whispering in her ear. “You really do wanna go at it…”

Elizabeth laughed nervously, her face already turning red. “S-shut up! That’s not true!”

Chansin laughed again while buttoning back his shirt. “You know, I’m really glad to be here with you.”

Elizabeth smiled warmly at him. “Really…?”

“Yeah. You’re a really cool gal to be with.” he answered so shyly. “Y-you’re smart, funny, and jesus Christ, you’re so fucking hot.” Elizabeth tensed up at his comment. “And plus, I like seeing you showing off your bad side once and a while. It’s pretty cool actually. Now if only me and my gang would see you like that more often. You’ll be even cooler to hang with.”

“Well, it’s because I don’t want to break the law obviously!” Elizabeth replied.

“Hah, yeah I know! But it’s cool since you can keep it a secret from your parents if you can.” Chansin said, but his smile soon faded once he sees Elizabeth frowning. He didn’t even know why until a quick realization made him regret it instantly. “O-oh shit! Liz, I’m so sorry—“

“No, it’s okay.” Elizabeth attempted to make a smile, but it was only weak. “You just didn’t know.” She caressed her fingers on her lips. “Both of my parents died in a car crash since last year. So I’ve been doing my best to watch over Tina for them. However, my aunt and uncle usually visits to watch over us, and we even visit them.”

Chansin nodded once he understood. “Ah I see. Again, I’m really sorry about your parents.”

“Hey, it’s alright. There’s no need to worry…” Elizabeth attempted to change the subject. “What about your parents? Or your brothers for that matter?”

“Heh, oh yeah, that’s a whole other story. You see, my dad was born in Jamaica while my mom was from Japan. They got married and lived there while raising me and the rest of my brothers. One day, my dad gets a promotion from his job to live here in America and that’s how we ended up here.” Chansin explained. “While I love it here in the States, I still do miss being in Japan…”

Elizabeth smiled. “Nice story. Do you think I’ll meet your parents one day?”

Chansin chuckled. “Yeah sure, if anything really. They’re really cool guys.” He then cringed a little. “But they won’t be cool if they know more about me.”

“Ah, so you’re keeping this a secret from them?” Elizabeth asked, already amused.

“Of course!” Chansin cried. “If they knew about me being in a fucking street gang, even being their leader, I would be grounded until I graduate from college!”

Elizabeth giggled. “I’m sure that they’ll understand.”

“Ah please, as if! My dad and especially my mom will be pissed, and even Gleam would die of a heart attack if they know I’ve been sneaking out doing my own shit!” Chansin continued. Frustrated, he decided to calm down now before looking at the time. “Well, it’s almost 11. We should probably head back…”

Elizabeth nearly panicked once she looked at the time. “Oh shoot! Oh I hope that Tina understands once I return home…” She checked on her phone for any messages from her sister.

“Or you know, maybe we can just stay here for a few more minutes until we go?” Chansin suggested.

The blue-haired girl at first wanted to at least check on her sister, but then again, Tina was a pretty odd girl. And the fact that she acts so very mature baffles her. So instead, she just decided to rest on the ground for a bit, knowing what to do. “Alright, that’s fine with me.” She smiled at him.

Chansin grinned as he sat next to her, sitting as close together as they rested their heads against their chests and shoulders.

The two of them then looked at each other for a moment, staring so widely into each other’s eyes. It feels so tempting to at least make out and do something far more. Chansin started to blush while Elizabeth was having littles hues of red on her cheeks. The two became silent for only a minute until Elizabeth spoke up.

“Chansin…?”

“E-Elizabeth…?”

Elizabeth started to smile at how adorable Chansin’s face was as she held him close to her in a loving embrace. “Hey, I know we did this before, but think of this as your first kiss…” She said softly.

“Ah, so you’re gonna give me my reward, eh?” Chansin smiled, moving closer to her.

“Pretty much.”

“Well that’s fine by me.”

Smiling softly at each other, the young couple embraced each other more once they sealed their lips into a warm kiss. It felt more nice and pure, unlike the last time they first had their kiss. It feels as if they fully understood each other more, developing their relationship. Chansin’s warm lips were touching against Elizabeth’s rather cold ones as it just felt so great. They don’t even want to stop. They just want to keep going.

They soon landed on the ground as Elizabeth was on top of her boyfriend, instantly staring at his glowing purple eyes. She carefully observed his looks, from his rather handsome face to his impressive built chest being covered by his shirt. He was just so irresistible, Elizabeth immediately wanted him. She then pressed her lips harder into his, with Chansin feeling surprised until he then came in. She couldn’t even take it anymore. She wanted to be with him. She wanted to feel him as he feels her.

While making out, the two took their time to breathe in before having a little tongue kiss. Elizabeth kept her focus onto Chansin as she took off her jean jacket at a fast pace and threw it close to her. She then grabbed hold of Chansin’s white shirt and slowly unbuttoned it. But before she could continue, they soon stopped and looked at each other, their faces fully red from what just happened.

Everything became dead silent for a few minutes, though it felt like it was longer.

Chansin soon spoke up, stuttering. “E-Elizabeth…?”

“…Y-yeah…?” Elizabeth answered, doing the same thing.

“L-let’s…let’s go back home…”

“…Okay.”

The walk back home was mostly silent for the duo once they fixed their clothes and headed back down from the hill. They didn’t even bothered riding on Chansin’s bike, since they do needed to circulate their legs once and a while.

They soon remembered that little event that happened earlier. How the two of them so desperately wanted each other. Although they were fully tempted, both of their thoughts had said no before going even further. They knew that this might come back into play very soon, but for now, they would just keep it cool. Even Chansin is surprised at himself for thinking of this, as he would usually keep teasing Elizabeth into doing the unthinkable with her. But it’s for the best.

But however, he’s still pretty proud of his girlfriend for letting out her wild side, though not all of it. While she did so much little being around the gang, what she did tonight made Chansin grin. How she managed to agree in sneaking into an adult movie, how she started to become drunk for only a complete amount of time, how she almost wanted to make love with him. Chansin wished that she was like this when being with his gang, but he knows that Elizabeth was more of a goody-two-shoes. Always obeying the authority and their laws, that would always annoy Chansin. But then again, he still likes seeing her as to who she is, even if her tendencies of wanting to keep out of trouble would keep annoying him further…

Chansin and Elizabeth finally walked their way back to the familiar suburbs that they live in. The walk back from the hill to here only took forever to get there. Elizabeth was busy texting her sister on her phone, wanting to make sure that she was alright.

Feeling curious, Chansin wanted to ask her once she put back her phone. “So, what did your sis said?”

“She said that she’s doing fine all alone.” Elizabeth answered, feeling relieved. “Though she said that I can spend more time with you if I want.” She started to blush while smiling.

“Actually, I was going to say this.” Chansin rubbed the back of his head, turning away nervously. “I was thinking that maybe you and I could hang at my place for the night. And plus, you don’t have to worry about school.” He flashed her a grin. “Tomorrow’s Saturday!”

Elizabeth chuckled. “Aw cool. If it was like Monday, then I would be too tired to get up.” She said. “But sure, I’ll totally join you. I hope that your parents won’t mind.”

“Actually my parents are on vacation for the weekend, so they won’t come back until Sunday morning.” Chansin explained. “But I’m sure that Gleam would accept it.” He then groaned. “Now I just pray to god above that Sheen is fucking knocked out once we come back.”

“Why?”

“Because he’s a fucking jerk! He keeps hitting on chicks all the time! And I’ll seriously kill his ass if he even flirts with you.”

Elizabeth giggled. “That must be him alright.”

“Yeah, he pretty much sucks.”

The two laughed together as they finally made it back to Chansin’s house. “You’ve been here before right?” The owner of the place asked his girl.

“Um, I think once, but I only met your brother Gleam.” Elizabeth said.

Chansin nodded as he knocked on the door. And as expected, he heard a familiar voice from inside calling out. “Who is it?”

“It’s me, Aniki!” Chansin answered.

Hearing an “Oh!” from inside, the door was immediately opened as Chansin was greeted by Gleam, receiving a warm but rather tight hug from him. “Oh my dear little Ototo! You’re still okay! How was your date? Was it fun or was it still alright?”

“Aniki, you’re too tight!” Chansin wheezed, trying to break free from his brother’s grasp.

Gleam blinked as he gently got off of him. “Oops, I’m so sorry!”

Elizabeth giggled at their little touching moment. It instantly reminded her of when she spent time with her sister.

Gleam then noticed Elizabeth standing in the hallway as he greeted her kindly. “Oh hello! You must be Elizabeth, right? It’s nice to meet you. My name is Gleam, Chansin’s older brother.” He said, shaking her hand.

“Nice to meet you, Gleam.” Elizabeth said, feeling great from his hospitality.

“So Chansin, how was your date? Did you managed to do what I told you to do?” Gleam asked his brother.

Chansin sighed and made his usual bored look. “Yeah it wasn’t so bad. And no we didn’t go through any trouble.”

Gleam smiled warmly at him, thankful that he was being well-behaved as usual. “Well then, I’m glad that you two had a good time. Sheen and Snee are already asleep so you can prepare for bed if you want.”

“Thanks, Aniki.” Chansin nodded, a bit happy that Sheen’s asleep. “Also, if it’s cool if Elizabeth can stay over for tonight?”

“Oh, are you sure you want to do that, Elizabeth?”

“It’s alright. My sister texted me that she’s doing fine, so she said that I can hang out with Chansin if I like.” Elizabeth answered.

“Ah okay then.” Gleam said. “Well then, I should probably go and show you the guest room—“

Chansin then interrupted him, feeling a bit nervous. “Actually Gleam, um, Liz and I wanted to sleep together in my room. B-but we won’t be doing anything funny or whatever! It’s just going to be innocent!”

Gleam wasn’t sure about this at first. He might think that they’ll use this as an excuse to do something behind his back. And he didn’t see any sleeping bags in Elizabeth’s hands, but however, since his brother wanted some alone time, he decided to let it go either way. “Ah alright then.” He said, smiling. “But Elizabeth, do you have any pajamas with you, or…?”

“It’s alright. I have one hidden with me.” Elizabeth excused. She of course didn’t bought any sleepwear, but at least her undergarments from inside her dress was a bit appropriate to show.

“That’s fine.” Gleam nodded with understanding. “I’ll be up for a little while, checking to see if our parents are okay. You two have a good night.”

“You two, Aniki.” Chansin said as he led Elizabeth upstairs.

“Your brother’s really nice.” Elizabeth commented in a whisper.

“Yeah, he really is.” Chansin can’t help but smile. He always like it when Gleam’s his natural, kind self.

The two proceeded to enter Chansin’s room, in which Elizabeth admired of how clean it was. Normally, she would suspect that it would be pretty messy seeing how Chansin is, but for some reason, it looks nice. Most of the stuff in the room contained posters, anime figures, some video games and DVDs, and even a nice television.

“So this is your room, huh? It’s not that bad.” Elizabeth complimented, making a small smile.

“I had to clean my room this morning. Parents’ orders.” Chansin said before making a flop on his bed. “Ah, I miss being in here…”

“You really miss home, now do you?”

Chansin chuckled. “Well, when I’m at the prison known as high school, then yeah.” He then moved himself up. “I don’t need to worry about homework. I finished it before out date. So I’m all set for the weekend.”

Elizabeth giggled. “Same.” She then sat down next to him. “So um…you want to prepare for bed?”

Chansin looked at her for a moment before realizing what she meant. “Oh yeah!” He was about to take off his shirt, but blushed quickly. There was a girl in his room, and changing his clothes in front of her, would be really embarrassing. “Wait, uh, do you wanna have some privacy?”

Elizabeth blushed as well. “Um, well, I can change here while you can change in your bathroom. Is that okay with you?”

“S-sure…” He said breathlessly. “B-be right back!” He rushed to his own bathroom, slamming the door before washing his face with cold water.

God I’m such a pussy!! He thought to himself, trying to calm down.

But how can he really? He was about to sleep with his own girlfriend in his own bed. It’s not like that they’re going to do anything suggestive, but he was acting all nervous. But he shouldn’t be. He acted like this when they went all sensual during their date, at the movies, the nightclub, and the hill. What kind of guy was he anyway?

He then looked himself at the mirror. “Okay, you can do this…” He said, attempting to feel confident. “Don’t be a pussy!”

Taking out some sleepwear from his bin, Chansin changed his clothes to wear a simple, white t-shirt along with some grey boxers. He knew that wearing some shorts would be more suitable, but hey, maybe he could at least get Liz to be impressed?

After changing his clothes, he took a deep breath and opened the door. “Okay Liz, I’m re…” He stopped mid-sentence to encounter a beautiful sight.

Right before him was Elizabeth just taking off her clothes, who was revealed to be wearing a light blue tank top along with some dark blue shorts. His face was heating up instantly. She looked so beautiful. From her long hair flowing, to the sight of her breasts slightly sticking out, her own hips, and that adorable bottom. Chansin was certain that he had picked the right girl to be his girlfriend. And right now…he was in a blabbering mess.

Elizabeth soon turned to him, startled a little once he barged in. She didn’t even know about changing while he was inside. She knew that he would immediately ogle and howl at her body, but now, she didn’t expect him to act all surprised and nervous. One of many reasons to prove that Chansin isn’t what he claims to be.

“E-E-Elizabeth…” Chansin spoke up, breaking the awkward silence. “Y-you look…beautiful.” He said in a whisper.

His girlfriend giggled a little and turned away, blushing a little at what he said. “You look great too.” She whispered back.

Chansin slowly walked up to her, wondering on what to do now. “S-so um, you wanna let me get my sleeping bag? I can sleep on it while you can use my bed.” He suggested.

“No, that’s fine.” Elizabeth said. “I want to sleep in your bed with you.” She then frowned. “But if that makes you uncomfortable, then—“

“No, no! It’s fine!” Chansin interrupted her. “I want to sleep with you. So um, if you want, you can go in first.”

Elizabeth smiled softly. “No it’s okay, you can go first. It’s your bed.”

Chansin shrugged before sighing. “Okay.” But before he can hop into his bed, he points at something from the window, even though there’s nothing outside. “Oh shit, is that a bat!?”

Elizabeth turned around in confusion as she cried once Chansin grabbed up and carried her bridal style. “Chansin! Put me down!” She laughed, playfully hitting on him to let her go.

Chansin laughed as well, feeling her cold but soft body. “Ah okay!” He then threw her into the bed, where she laughed even harder. He then jumped in as well as the two of them started laughing together.

Their laughter soon died down once the two started to stare at each other. Chansin looked at Elizabeth staring at him with her adorable little eyes. She was just too cute. He gently moved up and comforted her while they laid down. He was busy caressing on her hair while feeling comfort from her soft skin. It just felt so nice.

Elizabeth on the other hand admired this feeling but was starting to feel a bit worried about something. Something that she felt pressured about. She was sure that Chansin had felt the same way.

Taking a deep breath, she started to speak up. “I’m sorry…”

Chansin looked down at her. “About what?”

“…About this!” Elizabeth cried. “The movie theater, the nightclub, the mountain! I actually kept pressuring you and I didn’t even know that you didn’t felt the same way until now.”

“Hey, it’s cool. It’s not your fault.” Chansin reassured her. “It’s actually kinda my fault?”

Elizabeth gave out a faint chuckle. “Heh, so I guess it’s both our faults then.”

Chansin thought for a moment until he sighed. “Y’know what? L-let’s…let’s do it then.”

“W-what?” Elizabeth was surprised at his answer.

“Yeah. I mean, let’s face it, we seriously love both of each other. We’re like freaking attractive. And we do respect each other’s back or some shit?” Chansin explained. “But hey, if you feel like doing it, then I’ll do it too. And besides,” he made a little grin. “It’ll be our secret~.”

Elizabeth blushed at his remark before shaking her head uneasily. “N-no, wait! I don’t know. I mean…” And then she thought of the obvious question. “Like, what if our relatives knew?”

Chansin’s eyes widened once she said this.

There was a certain catch to when two teenagers fall in love and secretly plan to have sex together: the fact was that the parents, or any relative for that matter, would catch them in the act or learn about it somehow. Or even worse, the parents would be furious if their female child became pregnant and forbid the teenage male from seeing their daughter again. And the fact that rumors would spread all over school. It was something that Chansin and Elizabeth cannot face.

But then again, it was their decision. It was up to them to see if they would do this. Either forget about it and continue on being a couple, or do the forbidden deed and suffer the consequences once somebody finds out. It was risky, and even a gamble from Chansin’s perspective, but they seem to have already made the right choice.

“Well…” Rubbing his eyelids, Chansin was able to at least make an answer. “We’ll try to not let them know.” He said. “And if they do and keep us separated, I’ll still sneak out and see you.” He smiled at her.

Elizabeth, who felt a little better, just smiled weakly at him. “Okay. But if you still don’t want to do it—“

“Trust me, Liz, I do.”

The two of them smiled at each other before sharing another kiss, which felt more softer this time. Chansin pulled himself up to stand in position until Elizabeth, wanting to experience this with her. He slowly prepared to take off his shirt until Elizabeth called him.

“Wait.”

He looked back at her. “What is it?” Is she changing her mind this time?

Elizabeth made a nervous look as she said. “Do you have any protection, or…”

Everything around Chansin started to break as he mentally fainted out of pure stupidity. “Oh shit!” He cried, making a slight whisper. “O-okay, okay. I don’t have any but I know there’s some in Sheen’s room.”

“Really?” Elizabeth asked him.

“Yeah. He keeps them in case he plans on “scoring”.” Chansin chuckled a little at his comment. “Just be right back for a sec and try and stay comfortable.” He watched her nod as he quietly exited his room.

After managing to sneak into Sheen’s room and receive a condom, he soon made it back to his room where Elizabeth was eager to see him again. “You got the condom?”

“Yep.” Chansin made a proud grin, preparing to take off his shirt. “Now we can get this over with…”

Taking off his clothes, he set the condom into his lower region. Elizabeth meanwhile was staring at how incredible his body looked. The sight of his own abs to his well-toned legs. She already wanted him. Chansin turned to her looking at him as he made a sly grin.

“Ah, so you do like this, huh?”

Elizabeth didn’t answered. She was too busy locking her sight on his chest. Not to mention his face.

“Well, last chance. If you don’t want to do this, then—ACK!” Chansin stopped as he was being reeled into bed by a thirsty Elizabeth. “E-Elizabeth!?” He was then pushed into the bed.

She didn’t want to wait any longer. She wanted him now. “Just keep silent for me, Chansin.” She said in lower tone, quickly taking off her clothes, revealing that she wasn’t wearing any bra or undies, shocking her boyfriend. She then went to bed as she climbed on top of him. “Because we’re going to have a nice, long moment together~.” She purred, making a sly grin.

Chansin then grinned as well. “Fuck yeah!”

“Yes mother, everything is fine at the moment. Yes, Chansin’s in bed.” Gleam was still up, talking to his mother on the phone as he went upstairs. “Well, he’s having a cute little sleepover. W-what? You said if their doing anything that’s…? Oh no, they aren’t I know Chansin!”

Gleam encountered Chansin’s door as he opened it a little, seeing a sleeping Chansin and Elizabeth together. He didn’t see no clothes in bed, as he hoped since it was too dark inside, so it was safe to say that they were fine. “No, the two of them didn’t do it. They’re just fine…” Gleam smiled before closing the door to head back to his room.

But unaware to him, Chansin and Elizabeth actually faked sleep the moment he checked on them. They definitely do the deed alright.

“So, you up for another round~?” Elizabeth said, embracing her boyfriend. “Because I know you do~.”

“Why yes.” Chansin grinned, coming close to her. “How can I not say no?”

The two laughed as they decided to have another moment together at peace.

This date was certainly special to them.

END

[blockheadbrands]

Eric Wilson Does It For The Love of Music

Stephen Laddin of High Times Reports:

Jurassic Park. That was my initial thought sitting down with Eric Wilson in his massive backyard. It’s an expansive landscape of mountain rocks, avocado trees and bronze dinosaur statues. A padded chair sits empty across from a wooden bench, on which Eric sits with Melvin, his playful Rottweiler.

Eric is in fantastic spirits, not at all appearing like the man who almost died days earlier in an ATV accident. His deep side bruise and fractured right arm are at complete odds with his sunny disposition. I ask him what happened with the accident and a wide smile crests his face.

“Well, when I was born, I fell out the wrong way. [Laughs] I was up on the walking bridge with my Mechanical Mule. It lost traction and I went down with it. It was pretty violent.”

Whether he’s grateful just to be alive or simply enjoying time away from the road, Eric Wilson is a happy man. And with good reason. Sublime With Rome is releasing their third studio album this month and will embark on a monster summer tour in June. 

We wait 20 minutes for the sun to tuck itself behind the trees, when our seating area slowly illuminates with a warm golden glow. It’s at this precise moment Eric wants us to begin.

What role did smoking pot play in the early development of Sublime’s music?

The guy who introduced me to Brad – Dave D – our relationship was smoking pot. He took me over to Brad’s house and was like, “I think you guys are gonna hit it off pretty good.” And by god, he was right.

When you sing about weed, you might get sweated by the local police or whatever. We weren’t afraid to sing about it. We were punk rockers. We were always out to say “fuck you.” It’s something we believed in. We weren’t out there saying “smoke crack,” you know? It’s something a grandma and a granddaughter can do together and it’s not bad. It’s a good bonding thing and it always will be.

Did it help bring the band together?

Oh yeah. During that time, I couldn’t afford to buy weed. I used to go over to this pot dealer, this guy Dirty Al’s, and would wash his dishes for roaches. I’d do all his dishes and he’d give me a bag of roaches and then smoke one out back with me. Brad on the other hand, as long as he went to school and got good grades…his dad had a jacket in the closet with this one pocket you could reach into at any time. His dad’s house was right near me, and one day his mom sent him to live over there. And that’s how we hit it off. I just showed up with a guitar and a joint one day. He was better on guitar than me, so the next day I came back with a bass and it stuck.

Had you played bass prior?

Yeah. But most people wanna try and play guitar. It’s more glamorous looking or whatever. But I found once I started playing bass, I knew my role. I knew it was for me. I started to understand what the bass was all about, how it holds everything down. If you’re familiar with Sublime music, it’s based on bass. A lot of it, anyway. The reggae bassline has a lot of melody to it. It’s not like regular rock and roll bass, which pretty much follows the kick drum of the drummer. The reggae bass is totally opposite. You’re playing the melody of the singer.

How did you know music was your thing?

As soon as I met Brad, I knew playing music was the thing I wanted to do for the rest of my life. But I personally believe music is hereditary. I come from a really strong lineage of musicians. My dad was a drummer, his dad was a fiddle player, and my son plays everything. It’s in your blood. And I was a “natural.” A “natural” can easily figure out an instrument. Someone who’s not a natural can still learn how to play, but they’re gonna work their ass off just to get half as good as you. I was born with it. And I thank my family genes for that.

My dad was a music teacher and he would have this test to see if you’re a natural. Basically to see if you had timing. He’d have a stopwatch and whenever you were ready you’d say “go” and when you thought a minute was up, he’d stop it. Obviously you couldn’t look at a clock. If you were within a second or two of a minute, a second ahead or a second behind, you were a natural. And he was right. Anybody he ever taught got it down.

The last person I did the test with was Paul Leary of the Butthole Surfers. He set up a stopwatch and we just had a conversation. When I thought a minute was up, I said “minute.” We looked at the time and it was spot on. Ask him, he was blown away.

You were quoted as saying “I’m able to play music for the love of music, just like I did back then. I am so fortunate to still be able to do it.” Which to me says, you’ve been following your calling since day one.

A lot of people who get into music, they burn out on it. Especially people who do it for a living. It becomes like clocking-in. You can see it in their eyes. When I go on the road, I bring a little dressing room box that has a drum set and everything. We have all day long to do nothing and all these empty dressing rooms to do whatever we want. Why not be kids again and jam out? So yeah, I do it for the love of music still. I always tell people, I play for free but charge for travel and downtime. There’s a million bass players who are better than I am. I just won the lottery.

Where did the inspiration for Sublime’s early songs come from?

All of that was created because of Brad’s early encounter with reggae music. He went on vacation with his dad and discovered Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. And then when he came back to Long Beach and I met him, we got into local stuff like Fishbone. We went to our first show together at Reseda Country Club, and when we came back, our lives were changed. We wanted to be like the Bad Brains.

We’d cover songs from our favorite bands before we had songs of our own. And that’s when we wrote “Date Rape.” Brad would write fictional stuff. Like, that song was totally fictional. He just made it up. “Date Rape” was a big deal on the news during that time and he just put it together quick. We put the music together and he came up with the words just as fast. When you find someone you can write with like that, it’s easy. So much fun, you know? It’s a blast.

The effortless creative process.

A lot of people never get a chance to feel that in their lifetime. [Brad’s] dad had a liquor cabinet downstairs and he was always over at his girlfriend’s house. So we would spend five hours a day drinking scotch liquor and writing songs. We had a drum machine for a while before we got a real drummer. It was cool. It was really cool when you didn’t know the business side of things. We just thought we were supposed to be on the radio all of a sudden. We didn’t think about how you get there.

We had two bands before Sublime where we’d play for beer and gas money for the next show. And we’d play a bunch of our favorite songs from The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Clash, The Cure. And then we started getting more hip into The Specials, Untouchables, the reggae shit, Minor Threat. [Laughs] We’d be smoking joints singing songs about being sober. I’m not sure if Brad had some master plan ‘cause he never told me. It was just a party. Those were the best days of my life.

At what point did you start to think, “hey, maybe this is more than just a party?”

When Brad went away to college in Santa Cruz, I returned to my old punk rock band, The Juice Bros. [Brad’s departure] didn’t make much of an impact ‘cause I was kind of a loser kid, not going in the right direction anyways. If beer and pot were involved, I was there.Thank God for Brad, because if I’d stayed in that band, I’d probably still be living out of my mom’s house.

Anyway, Brad got turned onto dance hall reggae up in Santa Cruz and he recorded a bunch of tracks on a cassette. When he came back for vacation, he played it for me and initially, I didn’t get it. It took me a while to catch on. For a minute he was forcing me to play some reggae songs. But then it just clicked with me one day that I love this music. Bud [Gaugh] lived across the alley from me and we’d jammed in garage bands together and stuff. So I got ahold of Brad to figure out where we could practice. Bud’s mom let us, so Brad picked me up and drove me over there and the first time we practiced we knew we had something going. Brad transferred back to Long Beach for college and that’s when we first got serious about music.

1996. How did it feel to reach the pinnacle of your success as a band but without your lead singer?

It was just like any fairytale. Everything was going my way and it just screeched to a halt. We went to accept the MTV Video Music Award and just wasn’t there. It just goes to show you how fast things can change for anybody at any time. That’s what happened for us. 

I didn’t play music for a little bit. Then me and Bud started playing again. I played bass in a drag racing band. But everybody who came to our shows wanted to hear Sublime-type music. And I loved it anyway, so I figured what the hell. We started Long Beach Dub Allstars. I finally figured out I could still write songs and still have fun, even without Brad. But there was nothing like him. With him, I had the best times of my life, like I said. Playing in backyard parties…we just thought we were the shit. We were, I guess. Play for 10-15 minutes then a helicopter comes. Party’s over. But those 15 minutes were so untouchable.

2009. What’s the impetus to start Sublime With Rome?

All my best friends were in Dub Allstars. And because of the business aspect of things and being in a band with that many people, it screwed up my friendships with everyone. So we all went our separate ways. I went to play drums in a Huntington Beach psychedelic band with Jason Robbins, Phil Seville and this guy Lou who did sound and ran 17th Street Studios.

We were recording there when Rome [Ramirez] came in with his girlfriend at the time. He was a big Sublime fan and was just hanging out while she was doing an album, so we’d jam out when we’d see each other. My current manager [Cheez] was developing Dirty Heads in another room and heard how good we sounded together. I heard it too, but didn’t really put it together like “oh, let’s start Sublime again.” Because Cheez has a mind for that kinda shit, he took me aside and said “hey, how’d you like to start Sublime again?” And I was like, “yeah that would be awesome.” Things have a way of working themselves out.

It’s now been 10 years since the formation of Sublime With Rome. What are some of the highs and lows of that journey?

Right from the gate, Bud started playing with us, which was great. But he’s never traveled very well. He’s not into travelling and he didn’t last long. So we brought on Josh Freese and it was a real blessing to have him come on and save the day when Bud didn’t want to do the touring anymore. Then Josh started getting all these opportunities, and he’s used to playing in a bunch of different bands at the same time. He’s got a wild life. When when he took off, Carlos Verdugo came in and he’s our drummer now. He was in a band we toured with a few summers ago called Tribal Seeds. I remember watching him with Josh and Josh was like “man, that guy can play.”

LD, our DJ…what a great soul, man. He used to play drums in a band in Long Beach and their singer got a turntable to try and work it into their scene. Well, the guy couldn’t figure it out so LD took it home and made a career working with all the big hip hop artists. I guess he met Rome somehow and he’s been part of our family for a long time now, too. A couple years ago, we got Gabe the trombone player from No Doubt. We used to play shows together when Brad was around. He’s so amazing. Anytime I meet a trombone player I ask, “can you play the solo on ‘Wrong Way’?” And they never can ‘cause it’s a really tough part. But Gabe nailed it, of course.

The lineup we have right now is the best we can possibly be without being the original lineup. I’m totally happy with it. We all have our different walks of life but we’ve learned to respect each other and love each other. I plan on doing this for as long as I keep breathing.

How much has your musical career influenced cannabis culture and how much has cannabis culture influenced your musical career?

Probably the same percentage on each side. It goes hand in hand. We always get the latest gizmos and whatnot. And for as much stuff as I forget, it helps me be creative. I think anybody else in the band would say the same thing. It takes you to that place we were at when we were kids in the garage, playing music for ourselves. For the love of music, you know? Marijuana was our buddy, right there sitting next to us. I can’t imagine it not being there.

What makes your upcoming album different from the previous Sublime With Rome records?

I think Rome and I had a harder time working together in the studio on previous albums. I think we both learned how to work with each other a lot better on this one. I’ve always thought he was a really good songwriter but he tended, in the past, to be overwhelming. I always had a certain way of recording with Brad and other people, so for a while I would just fart out some bass lines because I didn’t feel part of the creative element. It’s changed since then, since the last album. So thanks, Rome. He’s such a great songwriter and it’s honor to record with him.

We had a few talks on the road for this album. A couple heart to hearts that gave more headroom for both of us to collaborate. Whereas before, it was a little more one-sided. For this album, the process was more like what I’m used to doing. Playing for the love of music and having a great time doing it.

Sublime With Rome’s third full length album “Blessings” is available May 31st.

Follow @sublimewithrome and check out http://www.sublimewithrome.com/ for tickets and tour dates

TO READ MORE OF THIS ARTICLE ON HIGH TIMES, CLICK HERE.

https://hightimes.com/culture/music/eric-wilson-does-it-for-love-music/