#he’s going to have so many stress tokens by the end of this it’s so unfunny and it is making me unwell

[ibeewashere]

I genuinely cannot describe how deeply DEVASTATED I am about riz being the only one who can take stress tokens for the others. Yes fig is a protector and will fight endlessly for her friends and I love that about her but there is something about the way riz loves his friends. It’s a more subtle kind of love, but just as relentless and passionate and he will take any burden for the people he cares about and bear the weight of it on his shoulders so they don’t have to deal with it without any hesitation. I am ILL.

[ch0wen]

Hi!!!!!!! Loooooove your writing!!!! May I ask Tangerine x reader (fem if you want!), hot "Thank god you are safe!" kind of sex?

Thaaaaaank you for your support and for sending this over!! 💕 I am so so so happy to read comments on my posts and I really appreciate receiving these messages. Please accept this work as a token of my gratitude -

Request: Gunpoint - Tangerine x gn!reader

warnings: 18+ (minors dni), smut, & cursing

“I’m okay. I promise.”

“He held a gun to your head, Y/N.”

He has a serious look on his face but his dick is sliding deliciously in and out of you. He’s thrusting slowly. Analyzing, not admiring, your body to ensure there aren’t any hidden cuts or marks he may have missed from earlier. You’re clenching down on his cock to try and savor the feeling of him filling you up. Gripping him to hold onto the feeling of being full to avoid the emptiness from him slipping out.

You’re grateful Tangerine is so doting. It’s an entirely different side to him that not many people see. He’s generally caring and listens to you, but his worry is not an emotion you see often. In reactive situations, when the cause for the stress is over, he gets clingy and has to state verbal reminders that you’re okay, but they're mostly for himself. It's been a while since you've seen this side of him, but today put him in a position he hasn’t been in before and you could tell it shattered him.

Earlier, you opened the front door of your apartment with a smile, thinking it was just Tangerine meeting you for your agreed date. However, you were staring down the barrel of a gun with a sweaty, blonde man’s hesitating finger dancing on the trigger.

Moments later, Tangerine’s pounding footsteps were heard down the building's corridor. His tight facial expression faltered once he got a look at the scene now in front of him. Blondie had swooped in behind you and put you in a chokehold; the pressure of the gun prodding at your head.

The look on his face paired with the gun made your stomach twist. He paled whilst trying to fight off any trace of worry to not give Blondie the reaction he wanted. But you can pick up on any of his micro-expressions, except he wasn’t successful at fully hiding some of the changes to his demeanor. Contorted eyebrows here, a quivering lip there, hands stuttering with the flexing then balling of his fists, and a command to let you go with a slight quiver to his stern tone. And when he locked eyes with you, you could read his silent plea for you to stay calm. He was helplessly trying to figure out a safe way to free you from being Blondie’s hostage without having said man react and shoot you. You never saw that clear emotion wash over him before. It didn’t make you feel good at all. You felt horrible to be in a position where your smart, always confident Tangerine was unsure of himself and what to do next. To feel this way being the one with a loaded weapon pressed against your temple says a lot.

But you’d do anything to never have him doubt himself or for you to be labeled as a damsel in distress. So, you took initiative to defend yourself against Blondie by throwing your head back into his nose as you’ve seen in the movies. Honestly, what they don't tell you, is that the impact causes whatever part of your own head to throb. But arguably that was the preferred pain over the harsh smack of the gun to your face. Your body hitting the ground with a quickly forming welt set Tangerine off, and now Lemon is currently out God only knows where to dispose of Blondie’s corpse.

Tangerine embraced you over the cooling body, followed by a quick text to Lemon. He iced your cheek/eye in the kitchen. Leading to more kisses that finally wound you up on your bed for him to 'assess' how bad your injuries are. Now you're here.

“Tan, I’m not gonna break. Fuck me, baby.”

Wordlessly, he is moving back to sit down near the end of the bed and pulls your body with him. You’re now straddling his lap; being wrapped in his arms with his dick never slipping out of you. His hands soothingly stroke up and down your sides as he continues to thrust his cock rhythmically. Fingers ghost over the bruise on your face. He’s afraid to apply any pressure to it. This close you can see how genuinely concerned he was and still is. There are traces of tears around his baby-blue eyes. You're not sure if they’re from now or earlier in the hall, and he would deny having ever welled up if you tried asking. But you carefully stroke under his eye with your thumb to wipe them away and now he’s staring at you.

“I was so scared I was going to lose you,” he admits.

You kiss his fingers as they sweep over your lips then replace the sensation with a soft kiss to his own. A silent message that that didn’t happen. You’re alive.

“I’m right here,” you whisper promises against his lips, “I’m not going anywhere. You’re stuck with me.”

His mouth quirks into a smile and nips at your lip,

“Oh, yea. You’re an absolute bore to be stuck with,” he teases.

Your giggle turns into a hearty moan as he gives you an unexpected firm fuck up into you. Oh. His pace has impressively sped up and his hands keep alternating where he's holding you. Like he wants to constantly touch you to physically confirm you’re here with him.

“You’re safe,” he whispers; moans escaping past his concerned tone.

“I’m safe.”

“You’re mine.”

“Yes, baby. I’m all yours.”

“Mine,” he nods then sucks a love bite into your collarbone. Then moves to place one onto your skin just above your left nipple. Taking a moment to pay attention to the sensitive bud by licking and suckling on it. You’re writhing against him; pushing his hair back from his face to watch him pay attention to your chest.

Your nails bite at his shoulders with each drive up into you. The bed creeks and shakes with his hips pistoning into you from below, creating the sickest, dirtiest slapping sounds in the room. What he's doing with his lower half is a stark contrast to the gentle touches he places on your face. The overwhelming sensation of your creeping orgasm and being cradled so close to Tangerine is your confirmation that you’re here and today really drove in the fact that you know Tangerine will always strive to keep you out of harm's way.

[sylvester-oak]

Alright, the latest episode has already created controversy, and I really don't mean to add to it, but come on everyone. It wasn't that bad.

John and Mariana sharing a bedroom is fine. It needs to be understood that Mariana is a new, developing character. We are not familiar with her the way we've been familiar for years with Sherlock and John. I say we give her a chance, yeah? I'm glad that the show didn't just introduce her and then keep her as a token female character. And would that not have been worse? Instead they actually make use of her. They are taking the time to put her in the limelight for once. So we can get to see how important she is to Sherlock and John, and also who she is beyond the manager of Sherlock & Co.

The episode had some great moments. Some of the best so far. Sherlock finally calling him John. And John's brain just short circuiting for a little bit. John and Sherlock laughing together. Their conversation was so heartfelt. I can't stress enough how important it is to me that we finally have an adaptation where Sherlock isn't reduced to a cold, calculating machine. Sherlock cares and he cares deeply. It made me so emotional. And Hunter narrating the story of the Gloria Scott. That's about as close to the ACD canon as it gets, folks. There's nothing that says ACD like the perpetrator narrating his own sad (or not so sad) story. The orchids, of course, as others have pointed out. The episode beginning and ending with unremarkable domestic shopping scenes, that are almost exactly the same, but feel different.

The only issue I have is that I think the ending was a little bit abrupt. What happened to Lionel? Did Hunter actually leave? What about Victor? Is he okay? Did he go see his dad after he found out, did he confront him with the truth? Too many questions unanswered.

[yuitoru]

Hello! if that's okay I could order some hdcns for cozmez + gklck (but if there are many then only cozmez + kenta and ryoga) where his fem reader is a ray of light who works hard to prepare adorable cupcakes to give to the fans as a token of gratitude for going to support them, It makes me laugh to imagine mc at the end of the show like "thanks youu , come back soon *greetings greetings* :D " jeje XD

that's all hehe I'm glad to see a new blog that write for paralive welcomeeee ^-^

a/n: hii!! yess i already love paralive so much i look forward to the new eps every week kjfirj also i js wanted to say that im not that familiar with the characters not yet introduced in the anime, so ill try my best for ken and ryo from their wiki pagesss imsosorry :((

ʚ ₊˚✧ ⠀⠀⠀ CUTEST CUPCAKE !!

incl : k.yatonokami , n.yatonokami , k.mikoshiba , r.tosa

₊˚✧ KANATA YATONOKAMI

kanata was a silent lover, especially when it came to talking about how much he actually appreciated everything you did for him. but, that didnt mean that he had no shame about your relationship - he just preferred to keep his affection behind doors

so, when you decided to prepare cupcakes to bring along to cozmez's concert for fans, kanata didnt protest in the slightest, but also didnt comment on it at all. however, internally, his stomach was doing flips and his heart was pounding - how could you be so cute??

at the concert, you were stood at the exit queue, handing out the cute cupcakes you had prepared to the fans, a warm smile on your face. kanata watched how happy you looked, talking with each fan and genuinely being glad to be there, as he fell even more in love with you - your selfless nature warming his hardened heart

₊˚✧ NAYUTA YATONOKAMI

nayuta was more open with his affection for you; hugging, kissing, and always holding onto you, even in public. he always communicated how much he loved you, not caring if he came off as clingy or needy

when you baked the batches of cupcakes and brought them with you to one of cozmez's concert, nayuta swore that he felt his heart skip a beat. you just looked so goddamn adorable, holding containers full of delicious, decorated cupcakes and handing them to the grateful fans leaving the venue. it had been completely your idea, no input from anyone else - just the goodness of your heart

despite the vast amount of people, all nayuta could hear was your bubbly voice occasionally speaking to a fan or two - "thanks for coming today!", "hope to see you again!", "please, have a cupcake!". nayuta was smitten, but he didnt care - he just loved you so much

₊˚✧ KENTA MIKOSHIBA

kenta was slightly hesitant when you mentioned wanting to make cupcakes as a little thank you for his fans. it wasnt that he was embarrassed, not at all - he just didnt want you to be stressed about making the right amount, or about allergies or dietary concerns for the fans. in his opinion, they didnt deserve your kindness - only him!

but when you kept insisting on making them, with that adorable pout on your face, kenta just couldnt say no to you. he did his best to help you as you made batch by batch by batch of cupcakes, lifting things for you and grabbing ingredients from the convenience store

after the concert, kenta stood with you as you handed each fan a cupcake, trying to keep the scowl off of his face as he watched. they didnt even do anything, and they got a dessert made by you! he swore he wasnt jealous, but the way he clung to you afterwards clearly suggested otherwise...

₊˚✧ RYOGA TOSA

ryoga often struggled with speaking out, so whenever fans would approach him and thank him for the performance, he would freeze, often making the fan slightly uncomfortable and upset. he hated his inability to speak to others, but he just couldnt help it, as he often scared people away from how he looked

thats why you were practically his voice, speaking for him when he couldnt. the idea of baking cupcakes for fans was yours, but he followed along with it, as it meant that he wouldnt have to speak out. he was used to using violence instead of words, but this gesture meant that he wouldnt have to; a kind show of gratitude

at the end of the concert, he helped hand out the cupcakes, making it quite a comical sight. a big, scary, intimidating man handing out cutely decorated cupcakes to fans almost half his height. it made you laugh on the inside, but you knew that ryoga could be gentle when he wanted to, as he was always with you

© yuitoru™ — dont copy, plagiarise, repost, modify and/or translate my works.

[bellabrady]

I need to vent this to someone and idk why but i just feel like you’ll understand me idk but….

I’m terrified about next week’s episode… like I feel like there is so much within the fandom that is hanging onto next week’s episode being a definite thing on whether or not buddie will go canon, and it’s been stressing me out seeing all of the discourse… I have so many strong feelings about the idea of Tommy (who has always pissed me off as a character from the Begins episodes) and how so many people just suddenly out of nowhere love the guy and compare him to Buck and Eddie when there has literally been barely anything comparable to the two of them as characters since he’s been back. Not only that, but the theory of Buck and Tommy being a thing as a potential for Eddie to come to terms with his feelings doesn’t make me feel comfortable— Not in a “omg i just want Buck and Eddie to jump into bed with each other and call it a day” because i don’t… I just know us queer people are still only seen as tokens half the time, and I’m worried that if they pair Buck with a guy (while Yay for bi!Buck) who is a character that A) is from his past, and B) is for some reason all of a sudden adored by a bunch of people (for reasons i will never understand)… I’m afraid they will just put he and Buck together and call it a day, and just keep Eddie and Buck as “brothers” when that is such a disservice to both of them… If Buck does become confirmed as bisexual, I have no issue with him exploring his sexuality with other men who aren’t principal characters because that won’t have any bearing on the finality of buddie as a ship, but I’m afraid that by putting Buck and Tommy together will somehow be ABC’s way of saying “Eh this will do” because of the way so many people have suddenly jumped onto the bucktommy train.

On top of that, the idea of getting jealous!buck would make me happy if it weren’t for the fact that it’s Tommy, and I am terrified that the writers are trying to wrap him up in this glittering duct tape bow and say “we’re not going to give you what you’ve been asking for for 6 years, but we’ll give you this cheap knock off” due to the speculation that Eddie will somehow reaffirm that he sees Buck as just a friend being the catalyst for Buck exploring his sexuality with Tommy.

It would be painful as a longtime buddie truther, but it would also be painful as a genuine fan of the characters because i feel like that would ruin everything they have built together over the past 6 years, and it would be a cop-out because they don’t want to go that route, even though they are the ones who have set up buddie in this context on so many different occasions…. sure a lot of buddie moments can be real things that happened in platonic relationships, but the framing and subtext has always been this will they/won’t they dynamic, and it feels so icky to me for them to make Buck Bi, and have him NOT end up with Eddie.

And I know people are quick to point out Ryan and Oliver in these recent interviews and everything as some sort of evidence towards buddie canon, but I would think a lot of us have been in this carousel long enough to know that if the possibility of a popular queer romance on a show is one of the BIGGEST marketing tactics that shows use. I’m not saying that Ryan and Oliver themselves are queerbaiting because of how much they’ve supported the buddie fandom over the years, but something in me feels like a lot of their PR appearances lately have been to intentionally cause speculation so that they don’t lose the buddie portion of the viewers when they rip the rug out from under us…. (again not blaming Ryan and Oliver AT ALL because they have no say)

idk if any of that makes sense and im sorry for like the novel i just wrote in your asks lmao but i just needed to get that off my chest and you are one of the few people I have seen who also seems to dislike Tommy’s character, and could maybe possibly see where I’m coming from with my anxiety on this whole thing because it’s been making me spiral lately….

it’s just this ship (as i’m sure it is to others) is really important to me and seeing the online support of a bucktommy romance as a means of getting buddie worries me that the writers will take that as people wanting bucktommy canon and just giving us that as consolation for not giving us buddie and that breaks my heart because i have such a deep connection to both Buck and Eddie in different ways, and i want to see them and their relationship done good service, and frankly none of the theories i’ve seen surrounding it have been anything i want to see with them because i hate tommy, and don’t want him of all people to be the reason we get screwed over.

hi there! you pretty much described exactly what i've been feeling and i 100% understand and feel your anxiety. most people have been super excited for the next ep but i truly feel like it won't go over well for us (though i'll gladly be pleasantly surprised). i even had to log off twitter for a bit because thinking about all the potential ways this thing with tommy could go was giving me legitimate anxiety (yes i'm aware that's not an entirely normal way to feel about a tv show, but sue me, i'm mentally ill)

i feel like i also haven't really been able to enjoy 911 twitter, tumblr, tiktok etc anymore because so many people, like you said, just jumped onto the bucktommy train and i hate it for so many reasons. i just wish everybody was as keen on ignoring that guy as i am.

so yes, i completely agree with you and i definitely relate. i'm glad you felt like you could vent to me and if you ever wanna DM me so we can share our anxiety a bit, please feel free! <3

[shslluckygays]

The Witch's Junkyard of Despair - Komaegi QP

Summary: Naegi and Komaeda go through a haunted house attraction. (This one has a bit of angst/drama)

The first thought that comes to mind when Naegi steps outside is how terrible the view is.

As if I didn't need more discomfort today… Reaching into his pocket, he feels the small, smooth cardboard box inside and sighs heavily. It's been a few months and reformation across the globe has been a slow process. As expected, of course, but it's still difficult. People around the world are just now beginning to recover, buildings are being rebuilt, and families reconnected. Naegi looks across to the polluted sea in front of him, the sun setting beyond it, and finally pulls out a cigarette, blocking the gentle wind with his hand as he lights it.

"Measly performance today, Naegi."

"Um, I-I'm sorry?

Munakata had frowned at him, using his height to look down on Naegi with the most disappointed look he had ever received.

"You didn't see the audience? You didn't see the confusion in their eyes when their Ultimate Hope delivered one of the worst motivational speeches they had ever heard?"

"Okay, I've just been really worn out lately and I think—"

"Next time, put in more effort. I know you can, you've done it before. For the world's hope, Naegi. Remember that."

Closing his eyes, Naegi takes a long drag from his cigarette. Suddenly, he feels guilty; He told Asahina he would quit. I've already broken many promises. Naegi exhales, watching the smoke slowly dissipate in front of him. What's one more?

"Naegi-kun? Where— Ah, there you are!"

Turning his head to the familiar, breathy voice, he sees Komaeda approaching with a wide smile on his face, donned in his signature jacket over a clean collared shirt with a black tie. "Do you know how long I've been looking for you?"

Hastily, Naegi puts out the cigarette in the adjacent ashtray. "H-hey, Komaeda-kun. What's, uh, going on?"

Komaeda's smile widens as he snatches Naegi's hands. "The Ultimate Hope himself shouldn't be out here like this! Here, allow me," All of a sudden, Naegi's world is flipped upside down as Komaeda lifts him up onto his shoulder.

"Komaeda-kun!" Naegi yelps. "What are you doing? Put me down!"

"Apologies in advance, Naegi-kun…!" Komaeda bursts into the Future Foundation building and rushes up the stairs, Naegi bouncing helplessly on the older lucksters shoulder. Even after just a few steps, Komaeda immediately begins wheezing and slows down a bit. "We, hah, we must.. make haste!"

While Komaeda adjusts him with his other arm, pain shoots through Naegi as Komaeda's sharp shoulder blade jabs against his stomach. "Ow! Komaeda-kun, wait just a second…!"

"Ah, no worries, Naegi-kun! It… it won't be long!"

"WAAAIT!"

——————————

"I was going to say, we could've just taken the elevator."

After ten minutes of painstakingly climbing the stairs, Komaeda successfully brought Naegi in front of a lightly decorated office. A little late, but there's nothing I can do about that! We'll have to go through a bit faster then…

Pumpkins of a variety of sizes line the outside near the door, and tiny plastic bats hang from the windows, which are completely blacked out.

Komaeda stretches out his legs as he explains, "Nidai-kun told me it was supposed to be a new training regiment, and you know I wouldn't deny the request of a fellow Ultimate!" Though I probably should have. I'm going to end up keeling over and dying at some point…

"Um, okay… Well, what is this?" Naegi gestures to the sparsely decorated entrance.

"Ah, right!" Komaeda straightens up and puts on his token smile. "A little birdie told me that you've been rather stressed recently, so Class 77-b would like to proudly present to you," Wrapping an arm around Naegi's shoulders, he then grandly sweeps his free hand in an effort to make the display look a lot more fun than it actually is. "The Witch's Junkyard of Despair! Perfect name for an obstacle the Ultimate Hope must overcome, right?"

Naegi frowns. "So it's like a haunted house attraction?"

Komaeda nods excitedly. "Yes! Oh, and don't tell anyone else about this. It's secret!"

".. Okay…"

Komaeda laughs lightly and clasps his hands. "Ah, I can't wait to see your hope shine through!"

Naegi shrugs weakly. "It's healthier than smoking, I guess." Sighing, he offers his hand. Practically squealing with delight, Komaeda immediately takes it and drags Naegi inside.

A blast of cold air hits their faces as they are greeted with a tight, dark hallway lined with nets, a speaker somewhere playing night ambience. Komaeda shuts the door behind them, and it's almost pitch black, save for the muted white light coming from the ceiling.

Taking Naegi's hand again, Komaeda clears his throat, "Alright, here's the rundown," They begin to walk through the dense maze, paper leaves crunching underneath their feet as Komaeda talks in a low, dramatic voice. "We're lost hikers, supplies scarce. After walking across the rough landscape, we finally happen upon a strange junkyard—"

"A junkyard?"

"Ah, ah! Don't interrupt. As I was saying: This junkyard seems to be filled with supplies. But, something was amiss. Desperate for shelter, we decide to venture inside." Ah, Sōda-kun should be coming up here soon… Komaeda grins. "But little did we know, there would be horrors within, waiting to bring about our demise…"

Komaeda suddenly slams his foot onto the ground, throws aside a thick, black curtain in front of them and lets out an almost inhuman screech, spooking Naegi behind him.

Sōda, donned in a tacky zombie costume, lets out an equally high-pitched scream and falls onto the floor. Komaeda begins cackling at the sight.

"KOMAEDA YOU FUCKING BASTARD!"

"Wow, Sōda-kun!" Komaeda snickers. "I didn't know you could scream like that!"

"GET THE HELL OUTTA HERE!"

"Ahaha, sorry Sōda-kun! We'll take our leave then." Komaeda grabs Naegi's hand and they start walking again, Komaeda chuckling softly every few minutes over Sōda's reaction. After a while, Komaeda asks, "How are you liking it so far? Is it stress-relieving enough? Ah, I'm so proud you've made it this far! Of course, I never doubted your abilities in the first place…" No response. "Um, Naegi-kun?" Komaeda looks down to see an intense look on the younger's face. Trying to get his attention, Komaeda waves a hand in front of Naegi's face. "Naegi-kunnn.."

Naegi flinches. "H-huh?"

"I asked you a question."

"Oh um, yeah…" Naegi goes back to furrowing his eyebrows and staring at the floor. "It's alright."

Frowning, Komaeda puts his hand into his pocket. What's the matter? Did scaring Sōda-kun upset him somehow? No, that's not it… Komaeda looks down at their hands. Ah, that's it. Of course he wouldn't want to hold hands with worthless garbage like me!

He lets go of Naegi's hand, smiling. "My apologies, Naegi-kun."

To Komaeda's surprise, Naegi gives him a strange look. He then looks away and puts his hands in his pockets, looking more tense than before. Huh? Was that not the problem?

Confused yet intrigued, Komaeda keeps guiding Naegi throughout the attraction, meeting more of his classmates on the way. A few of them were poor actors, particularly Pekoyama, who didn't even leave her station.

"Um.. Pekoyama-san? You were supposed to jump out and spook us." Komaeda pointed out.

Pekoyama had widened her eyes. "Oh." She shook her head. "Sorry. I'm not used to this."

Komaeda chuckled, "It's okay, it was a good effort. We'll keep moving then."

After everything, Naegi had been deadpan almost the entire journey.

What is it? Komaeda ponders. They are nearing the exit, and it didn't seem like Naegi had been relieved of any stress whatsoever. Is it the decorations? The music? The scares? Could it be me..? Does he not want me here? Yes, yes, that could be it, that has to be it.

Nearly approaching Kuzuryū's scare, Komaeda smiles. "Ah, Naegi-kun, we're almost to the end! Let's see, will your Ultimate Hope talent finally shine through—"

"Can you stop calling me that?"

Komaeda flinches and looks down at Naegi with concern. "Calling you what? The Ultimate Hope?" Komaeda then laughs. "But that's who you are, isn't it? The admirable Ultimate Hope, Naegi Makot—"

Scowling, Naegi snaps again. "Just stop, stop it. This entire time, it's always been 'Ultimate Hope' this and 'Ultimate Hope' that, and I'm sick of it! Can't you treat me like a normal person for one fucking second?"

Hesitant, Komaeda's smile falls off his face. "I… I don't understand."

"Of course you don't! You're so blinded by your beliefs that you immediately assume what others are thinking. You never stop to think and actually consider what they really need. It's so… aggravating!"

Komaeda takes a step back. "But.. I.."

Naegi then sighs heavily, hands falling limp at his sides. "Sorry. Sorry.. I shouldn't have yelled at you, it's nice that you're doing this. It's just…" He puts a hand on his forehead. "The whole reason I'm feeling stressed is because of the whole 'Ultimate Hope' thing. I.. I just feel so much pressure and…" Shaking his head and putting his hands in his pockets once more, he sighs again. "I'm sorry. I should be grateful."

"Oh…" Taking a closer look, Komaeda notices Naegi's deep eyebags, the frown lines between his eyebrows. Eventually, realization dawns on Komaeda, and his chest pangs with guilt. "I see… So that's what's ailing you." Hesitantly at first, Komaeda then puts a hand on Naegi's shoulder and shakes it assuredly. "Hey. If there's anything Hinata-kun and the rest have taught me, is that you shouldn't have to go through it alone." Komaeda lets his hand fall. "I.. I should be the one apologizing. You're right. I didn't think about what you wanted, and… I'm sorry about that." Any self-deprecating comment Komaeda leaves in the back of his mind; Naegi-kun probably doesn't want to hear anything like that right now.

After a brief moment of silence, Naegi nods. "Thanks, Komaeda-kun. I appreciate it."

"Are you two finally done now?" Kuzuryū walks out of the shadows, dressed faintly like Monokuma.

"Ah, sorry, Kuzuryū-kun," Komaeda gives a meek smile. "I forgot you were there."

"How much of that… Did you hear?" Naegi asks.

Kuzuryū scoffs, waving a hand in dismissal. "Hey, don't worry about it, I'll just let you guys go through. Just like," he shrugs. "pretend I scared you real bad."

"Um.. okay.." Naegi inhales. "Ahhhh.. ahh?"

"… Really?"

Komaeda tilts his head to the side. "Now I know you can do better than that, Naegi-kun."

——————————

"So, how are you feeling now?"

"Honestly? I'm feeling a little better."

Komaeda grins. "Really?"

"Yeah, I really needed to get that out of my system." Naegi winces. "But I still shouldn't have had to yell at you for it."

Komaeda laughs, brushing it off. "It's okay, really! I deserved it."

Walking down the hallway as the moonlight shines through the tall windows, they chat for a little bit and laugh over some office stories.

Eventually they stop in front of Komaeda's office, and Komaeda leans toward Naegi, speaking now in a hushed voice. "I've been thinking: I recently… borrowed some bourbon from Togami-kun's office and was wondering if you'd like to talk about more of your woes over a drink?" He reels back, waving his hands. "Ah, only if you want to, of course!"

Naegi smiles, amused. "Sure. I'd like that."

Komaeda smiles back and opens the door, flourishing his hand. "Well, after you, then."

Link to chapter

[painted-bees]

you ask and you shall receive! I ended up picking a bunch, so here ya go. :D

🍸 [COCKTAIL] When was the first time your OC had an alcoholic beverage? What did they think of it? - for Margritte

🍨 [ICE CREAM] How does your OC compose themselves in stressful situations? - for Raf

🌺 [HIBISCUS] What does your OC think is the prettiest name? - for Cortes

🧁 [CUPCAKE] If you had to describe your OC using flavours, how would you (e.g., 'they're very sweet')? - for all 3!

🍬 [LOLLY/CANDY] What would your OC like to receive for Valentine's Day/as a token of love? - for all 3!

Cocktail, Margie: the first time she had an alcoholic beverage, it was when her dad let her have champaign on new years when she was 10, knowing full well that she would take one sip and absolutely hate it. He was right.

Ice cream, Raf: He becomes very quiet and withdrawn--but if something needs to get done, he puts his head down and does it. Don't talk to him though, he will not be pleasant to converse with. He has a very hard time making light of stressful situations, and he really wants to keep his mouth shut to avoid being a total asshole.

Hibiscus, Cortes: Cortes thinks Cortes is the prettiest name! That's why she picked it. Oh, but she also like Thursday.

Cupcake, all 3!: Magritte is sweet, like vanilla cake and sprinkle vanilla icing. Raf is like cinnamon and nutmeg--in more of a 'spiced tea' or savory kinda way. Cortes is salty. Like so salty...but also...umami.

Candy, all 3!: Raf just wants peace, quiet, and cuddles. So many cuddles. Margie is tickled pink by basically any kind of spontaneous little suprise, it can be flowers, a box of chocolates, a fancy dinner--something that she wasn't told about before hand, she loves surprises Q vQ♡ As for Cortes...she doesn't really get why something like valentines day is different from any other day. She always does/gets what she wants..! So...I guess she's ideally like that to continue being the case😂💕 with her two favorite little humans.

[7-wonders]

Series

Love Me Now–Meeting Duncan’s family for the first time, you’re faced with the glaringly obvious facts: You don’t belong. 

Part One | Part Two

Memento Mori–When being in the wrong place at the wrong time lands (Y/N) in the blood-stained hands of D.C.’s most notorious crime boss, Duncan Shepherd, she finds herself unexpectedly in his debt. Perhaps owing the dangerous man a favor would be more torturous if he weren’t so engaging.

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8 | Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Chapter 11 | Chapter 12 | Chapter 13 | Chapter 14

Beauty and the Beast!Duncan Shepherd AU

Wilted Roses Smell Just as Sweet–How Duncan came to become the monster that he is when he and reader’s paths cross.

This Place of Wrath and Tears–Jim is missing, and nothing can prepare you for what you stumble upon in your quest to find him.

A Gentleman’s Guide to Wooing Your Prisoner–You begin to resign yourself to life in a prison cell, when things somehow manage to become even stranger. Alternately, Duncan deals with his staff and fellow prisoners having hope for the first time since the curse was placed on his home and everyone in it.

This Cruel Trick of Fate–A quick blurb from Duncan’s POV.

Down the Rabbit Hole–You make a decision about your stay at the enchanted manor, but at what cost?

Days In the Sun–Readers can have little a Beauty and the Beast oneshot, as a treat

Hints of Kindness–With Duncan, it seems to be one step forward and two steps back.

Here's Where She Meets Prince Charming (but she won't discover that it's him 'til Chapter 3)–Thunderstorms do not conjure good memories for Duncan. He finds a kindred spirit in you.

Something There–It’s one of the best times of the year, and Duncan is about to find out why you love it so much.

Letters to Jim

Oneshots

Gala Blues–At a political gala, you’re ridiculed and objectified by some of Duncan’s colleagues. A fight ensues between you and Duncan, continuing to a standoff that can only end in one way.

 Kiss Me Through the Phone–The Republican jerk who follows you on Twitter turns out to actually be kind of nice. You’re more than content with him just being an internet acquaintance, but plans change when it turns out that he’s going to be attending the same event tonight as you.

Come Out and Play–Your boyfriend, Duncan, has a few tricks up his sleeve to help you relax after the stressful day you had.

From the Desk Of…–The mandatory class you’re forced to take this semester is enough to make you consider dropping out of college. The only thing that makes it bearable is your teacher: Professor Duncan Shepherd. He’s smart, handsome, witty, and, not to mention, twenty years your senior. 

Like an Animal (werewolf!Duncan)–Duncan finds himself in big trouble when he gets trapped in an elevator with you the night before his shift and in the midst of his heat. (Werewolf!Duncan Shepherd)

Service With a Scribble–Duncan’s a dick to a cashier, and (Y/N) decides to get back at him with a healthy dose of kindness.

Violent Delights (incubus!Duncan)–Accidentally summoning a seductive incubus leaves you between a rock and a hard place, but do you really want out of this as much as you claim?

As the World Falls Down–You’ve stood by Duncan through thick and thin, but when the true intention of the app he’s been developing is revealed, everything crashes down around you.

Inside Out–After one too many instances of Duncan being the token stuck-up rich guy, you’re ready to show him how the rest of America lives by taking him through a day in your life.

All the Time In the World–Life has thrown you a few curveballs lately. Between absolute chaos wreaking havoc at your job, being too busy to sleep and your schedule not meshing with Duncan’s, you’re stressed beyond measure. So stressed, in fact, that you don’t notice you miss your period until you’re two weeks late. 

Duncan Shepherd NSFW Alphabet

Single Dad!Duncan

Clingy Werewolf Boi

Honey Honey, Nearly Kills Me (werewolf!Duncan)–You learn Duncan's secret in probably the worst way

Popular Duncan tags: #werewolf duncan #professor duncan

[dandymaximilian]

Uh, here's some my personal headcanons for some of the Wordgirl Villians and their backstory. Also, what I think they looked like when they were younger.

Lady Redunant Woman

Rebellious, a troublemaker, and prankster.

Often caused trouble in Fair City out of sheer boredom.

Had a very odd, 80's sense of fashion.

Designed a lot of her own clothing.

Perky and fun loving, before customer service/life drained her.

Dreamt of being a model, but was rejected over and over again by the industry.

Had an easier time forming attachments to inanimate objects rather than people.

Settled for her current job out of desperation for money.

Mrs. Question

An animal's rights activist.

Became a vegetarian at a young age

A teacher's pet and an A+ student.

A quick learner and incredibly observant.

Endlessly curious, so she asked a lot of questions in school and at home.

Many of her peers were annoyed by this.

Became discouraged when her degree (philosophy) proved useless.

Turned to villiany as a way of utilizing her skills.

An absolute comic book geek.

She had every comic that depicts The Riddler, and based her villian persona off of him.

Leslie

Painfully shy and insecure.

She didn't have many friends due to this.

An absolute workaholic and an A+ student, often studying to the point of exhaustion.

Had a controlling, strict family who micromanaged her life.

Wanted to be a hero since she was a young girl, so she could finally feel a sense of power and confidence.

Found comfort in comics and princesses.

Superman was her favourite comic book hero, although Wonder Woman was a close second.

Was hired by Mr. Big by absolute chance, and was tricked into believing he was a hero. Yet, she never looked back.

She used to look up to Mr. Big, before getting to know him better. 🤣

Big Left Hand Guy

Suffered from bad insomnia due to crippling anxiety.

Dropped out of high school.

Deeply insecure, only finding pride in his big left hand due to it's strength.

Dreamt of preforming in theatre, but was too overwhelmed by stage freight.

Obsessed with the 1940's aesthetic and films, as it reminded him of his late father.

His first crush was Charlie Chaplin.

Ended up working as a construction worker, and gained a grudge from terrible conditions.

Became a villian as a way of proving himself worthy.

Spent a lot of time at the gym, using the equipment to let out his repressed anger.

Invisi-Bill

Was sent to boarding school at a young age to "straighten him out".

Struggled with staying visible, and was often ignored because of it.

Was seen as annoying whenever he was perceived by his peers.

Had to suppress personality due to pressure from parents and teachers.

Victorian fashion was a significant interest of his, and he put a lot of effort into his appearance.

Dreamt of being a celebrity of any kind, so that he could be beloved by countless of people.

Became a villian for the attention.

Loved to sing whenever he was alone, even if he wasn't very good at it.

The Butcher

Dreamt of being like his father, Kid Potato, since he was old enough to speak.

His mother died during childbirth, so he was raised by his father.

Kid Potato often left him at home alone while he committed crimes.

Dropped out of highschool.

He didn't have many friends after kindergarten, and was teased for the way he spoke.

Found comfort in his meat products, often stimming with it or stress eating.

Stole tokens at the arcade, specifically to play Dance Dance Revolution.

Secretly dreamt of being a dancer, but never found the courage or the confidence to go for it.

[goylempire]

Valentine’s Day shopping is stressful. Even on the other side of the mirror.

Hentzau and his human exchange Valentine’s Day gifts. 

warnings: none. Just some fluff. barely proof-read.

wordcount: 1265

The smell of leather-bound books and a thousand untraveled worlds filled her nostrils as she stepped through the door of the bookshop. She was sorely tempted to give up and go home, but Noc’ne refused to let her quit until they had tried every single shop in Vena. Hentzau had said he didn’t even want anything for Valentine’s Day. He’d never been great at accepting gifts, but she’d hoped to find one that would change his opinion on gifts in the future.

However, he was impossible to shop for. Hentzau could go out and buy anything he wanted or needed, and he did. He didn’t want something random just because the holiday dictated that gifts were meant to be given. He had given her so much. A home. A ring made from his own skin. Stability. Love.

And she couldn’t find even the smallest token of affection to give him.

“Don’t beat yourself up,” Noc’ne said, noticing her sulking near the shop window. “Get him a book. He can take it with him when he travels.”

A book? She wasn’t even sure what kind of book he would want. The only things she’d ever seen him read were the newspaper and letters and reports from his soldiers or the king. She’d never seen him read for pleasure.

Her fingers glided along the spines of the books as she made her way around the wooden shelving. There were so many of them she didn’t know where to start. Would they have any in the Goyl language? She’d been practicing and taking lessons to learn her fiancé’s native language. She’d be able to spot a few words if she found any, but she’d have to ask Noc’ne to translate the full synopsis for her.

“Is there anything I can help you find?” the shopkeeper asked as they shelved a book about the magical properties of moss found in the Hungry Forest.

“Do you happen to have books written in the Goyl language?” she asked.

‘Please, don’t be a bad human,’ was all she could think as she watched the shopkeeper’s eyebrows shoot up.

“Yes! I’m afraid our selection is very limited, but we do have a few over in the back corner furthest from the window.”

She thanked the shopkeeper and made her way further into the labyrinth of bookshelves. Noc’ne all but blended into the darkness. The speckles of moonstone in his onyx skin were the only thing she was fully able to make out from a distance.

“Find anything Hentzau might not hate?” she asked, joining him.

The shopkeeper hadn’t been joking. There were less than a dozen books on the small shelf in front of them.

Noc’ne gave her a pitying look. Of course not.

A dark book with amethyst stones set into the spine caught her eye. Pulling it from the shelf, she ran her fingers across the cover. There was no title. It was bound in the skin of some dark colored reptile.

“That is a children’s book,” Noc’ne told her. “It’s an older one. Not worth anything. Just a bunch of old wives’ tales and myths. You’ll probably find the one about the Jade Goyl in there.”

Smiling to herself, she flipped through the worn pages. Someone had loved this book very much. She pictured a small Goyl child sitting at their mother’s feet as she read aloud from it. Just like Hentzau said he used to do. His family didn’t have much, but the stories his mother read to him had given him hope for something better. It had given him the idea that happy endings existed.

She wanted to give that back to him.

“This is perfect.”

“You’re serious?” Noc’ne questioned. “You’re going to give Hentzau a book of children’s stories?”

She nodded and began walking back toward the front to pay. Three hours of searching through countless shops, and all she needed was to stop into an old bookstore. She was glad Noc’ne had made her push on.

                                                          ~*~

Hentzau looked up from the desk in his home office when she pushed the door open and walked in. He could tell by the barely restrained smile that she’d gone against what he’d said. The box she pulled from behind her back proved it, though.

“I know, I know. You said not to get you anything, but it’s just a little something!” she told him.

He shook his head and leaned back in his seat. “You need to learn how to follow orders better.”

Laughing, she walked around his desk and handed him the box.

“You and I both know that’s never going to happen.”

He hummed in agreement.

“I know, that’s why I had Noc’ne go with you today. I needed him to keep you busy, so I could acquire your gift as well.”

She crossed her arms over her chest and raised an eyebrow at him.

“Very sneaky of you, Lieutenant.”

He shrugged. “Do you want to see yours first or do you want me to open mine?”

“You first.”

Removing the ribbon from the box, he pulled the top off gently as if what was waiting inside was the most valuable thing he could imagine. He said nothing as he stared at the book. His face an unreadable mask of brown jasper.

“I haven’t seen this book since I was very small. My mother gave our copy to my aunt. I was so angry about that,” he told her in a hushed whisper. “Did you know this was the one she read to me from?”

She shook her head. “No. I only remembered you saying how much you enjoyed them when you were younger. I thought it may bring back some happier memories for you.”

He stood from his chair and pulled her closer to him than he usually did. That alone was worth the stress of looking all day for the perfect gift.

He kissed her forehead once and pulled away, taking his warmth with him in the dark cellar that had become his own personal lair.

“You had said not too long ago, that you were considering getting a pet for companionship while I was away,” Hentzau told her, walking through the door that led to the bathroom. He continued in a raised voice, “when I found out that a friend of mine who raises domesticated lizards was going to have several hatching around this time, I told him I wanted first pick.”

He returned with a small, spotted lizard in his palm. It’s tiny hands clung to Hentzau’s thumb.

“He may be tiny now, but he will grow, and he will become a fierce protector for you,” he told her, offering the little reptile over to her.

She let him tentatively move across the palm of her hand before pulling him closer to her face to examine him.

“My little ferocious protector, when you grow up, we will be picking the remains of my enemies from your teeth,” she joked. Hentzau rolled his eyes. “Do they even make toothpicks for lizards?”

Hentzau shook his head and returned to his desk chair. “Not that I am aware of.”

She smiled and ran her finger along the lizard’s head.

“That’s what I’m going to name you. Toothpick.”

That was one of the most ridiculous names Hentzau had ever heard given to a pet, but he kept his comments to himself. He had almost backed out of getting the lizard for her. He knew that most humans would have preferred a dog or a cat or a rabbit…something furry and loving. But his human wasn’t like most others. She had chosen him after all.

[ask-the-reaper-conspiracy]

Ayo, idk if Tumblr is still being screwy, but another question for OP. Who is your favorite character and why?

sadly it is but imma make it work

as to your question, I love all of these characters but Stronghart is the one who compelled me to make an actual blog for this group. not to knock the others dfkgkdsfks stronghart's just got a toxic relationship with near every character and that kind of makes him the glue that holds this conspiracy together!

I just dfkgkdgkfdkg I love everything about him. His character design and animations are very intimidating and dignified, with his clock motif kind of capitalizing on the "clock punk" aesthetic that a lot of people associate with the victorian era. and his breakdown animation is freaking dope. I also love that he's one of the few characters in the game whose appearance changes, specifically over the course of the final trial, where his hair loses its unicorn 'do to become the "vortex" of his original namesake.

In terms of personality I find him utterly fascinating. he's cruel and sadistic, megalomaniacal, and clearly has no regard for human life. he unashamedly admits in an escapade that he gave Gregson an impossible task with severe consequences for failure just for fun and called it his "vulgar mischievous spirit". he has an apparent hatred for criminals and believes that justifies the extreme methods he uses against them---a hatred that is not, apparently, class-based since he targets nobles and rich career criminals in both his conspiracies. he will keep a straight face even as he needles Ryunosuke on his discomfort in his presence and intentionally (as I see it) intimidates him in most of their meetings.

he uses people in the most insidious of ways by seizing on opportunities as they happen, pushing someone until they're under his power and he can make them do whatever he wants. I fully believe he was trying to take steps to do that to Ryunosuke in his 3rd case appearance in both games. (by that token I don't think he's very good at planning his evil farther in advance. his short-term "shoot Genshin" idea didn't take into account what would happen if Genshin didn't have the will that he had been long-term trying to wring out of him.)

but he's also very level-headed in most of his appearances and can even appear reasonable and competent as a Lord Chief Justice. he gives you cases when you ask for them, he strives for more effective forensic techniques (which is something the audience would be expected to want as well), and he can have perfectly reasonable conversations with the main cast. he arranged for Susato to go home immediately when he received word her father was ill. in yet another escapade, we learn that he cared enough about one of his birds that he lent her to Gregson for a period of time (which I think it indicative less of him having a soft spot for animals in particular as it is him being appreciative of animals he can use.)

like, none of this makes him a good person by any stretch but it's fascinating to me that he is both obviously evil and does so many irresponsible things on a whim yet also had so much potential to be just the eccentric sort-of-ally you had in the game.

Also his straight-faced seriousness makes it all the more fun when his mask slips at the very end of the game. Even his first evil laugh during the trial like, signals how stressed out he was getting when he realized Mikotoba was there at the autopsy and he never knew.

Finally, it's very interesting to me that of all that he's one of the only Ace Attorney culprits to never kill someone. Likely purely because he sees it as beneath him, but how would it affect him to take a life himself? Even remorseless killers irl can report feeling scarred by the incident on a purely physiological level so it's interesting to think about.

[undrgrnd-nft]

SO THIS IS THE NEW YEAR AND I DON'T FEEL ANY DIFFERENT

Written By NFTjoe Originally posted on UNDRGRND.IO

JANUARY 2ND, 2024

TL;DR: marketplace, DAO, token launch, venue, book, revenue sharing, gamified curation, incentivized engagement, soon.

I’ve been writing this post for over a year. 

The circumstances have changed but the sentiment is the same. 

This time last year I was set to launch the UNDRGRND Marketplace and begin onboarding artists featured in the publication. The day before the beta launch the developer decided he wanted to renegotiate the contract. The developer was from a previous relationship with my co-founders who gave me a job and handled the business side of UNDRGRND. I was not involved in the negotiations or project management of the site. I left the tech and business to them, they were my bosses, and they could handle it. The renegotiation devolved into legal recourse; lawyers were contacted but deemed too costly considering all the money that had already been put into the development of the site. 

So there we were on January 1, 2023, a publication, community, and gallery that I had spent two years developing and a marketplace that would never be seen by the public.  The beginning stages of the bear market were already showing. I assumed the bear market would be my time to shine: a new marketplace with gamified curation and incentivized engagement, supported by a publication and gallery, with the financial support of a DAO to purchase work.

It would have been exactly what we all needed. 

That’s my skill set. Many of my friends and followers have creative skill sets I’m in awe of, but my ability to see a need, and work to create a solution to fill that role, is how I fit here, with every talented individual.

I expected to be a life raft and found myself treading water alongside everyone else.

I began scrambling. I have bills and responsibilities like everyone else. I needed to find a way to keep this going while also preparing for the possibility it would end. I put aside writing, editing podcasts, social media posts, recruiting artists, and buying art. I began working on materials for accelerator programs, foundation applications, and grant requests. I made pitch deck after pitch deck, a business plan mapping out the next ten years, and submitted it, everywhere. 

One of the slides in a version of my pitch deck uses OpenSea as a metaphor. Many artists came to this space seeing the large sales numbers, total volumes, and market caps and thought it would lead to financial success. So many minted their first NFTs, tweeted, and waited, only to be met with a resounding thud of nothingness. 

I had the same experience submitting my deck and plans asking for funding. Nothing. 

From an early pitch deck circa March 2021

(If you’re reading this as an artist, musician, or creative and it sounds familiar, you’re in the right place).

I pitched to a few VCs, incubator programs, and foundations and felt close a few times, only to find more nothing and a lack of responses. 

My former bosses hustled and found success in other projects allowing them to continue their operations but it meant I lost what little support I had as it took their focus away from UNDRGRND. 

I was alone. 

I was stressed.

Depressed. 

I wasn’t sure if the thing I’d poured everything into would continue or if it would have to fade away into the background while I went back to teaching. So I took control of UNDRGRND and gave myself a year. 

So now I was in charge of everything which amounted to essentially nothing. 

I’ve been doing this for three years: building, writing, recruiting, searching (digging), planning, developing ideas, watching others succeed, and waiting for my time. 

But what do I have?

Experience? Knowledge? Passion? An Idea? 

Audience ≠ Community

Waiting on others does not work. Depending on higher-ups to do what is right for the community, for all of us, not just the top collectors or artists, does not work. I see influencers make millions while producing nothing, scammers suck money out of projects, and everyday people's true colors come out once they find success. How is this any different from the real world or web2?

Maybe that’s not fair though. Maybe that wasn’t their dream or why they came to crypto, web3, or whatever the fuck you want to call all of this. 

Why did I come here? I came for social change. The idea is that web3 promises a more equitable and sustainable future for those left behind by real-world elite one-percenters. The mentality that we were coming together as a group of individuals to begin to build better hooked me. For decades (centuries?) we’ve been kept out of the discussions with the decision makers of what better looks like. Or worse yet, we were included and they’re still not listening. 

Before the price speculation, the hype cycles, the influencers, the cliches, or the shill threads, crypto was a revolt, counterculture. Bitcoin was an underground movement in retaliation to the financial collapse of 2008.  Then DeFi promised the possibility of being your own bank. NFTs brought ownership to your creations.

So why have we brought the same broken web2 capitalistic models that many of us came to this space to reform?

It’s what is familiar. 

It’s how we survived in the past.

In one of my favorite essays, Brain Dead-Megaphone, George Saunders criticizes the state of media consumption and our focus on the loud, the hyperbolic and how individuals get sucked up in that machine, “A young friend who writes content for the news page of an online media giant, e-mails me: “I just wrote this news headline for my job: ‘Anna Nicole’s Lost Diary: “I Hate Sex.”’ If anyone wonders why Americans aren’t informed with real news it’s because of sell-out corporate goons like me who will do anything to never deliver a pizza again.”

Even those with good intentions fall prey to the same capitalistic ideals to ensure profitability, sustainability, and our basic survival.  We can say this is about the art, music, or the creative process all we want but the harsh reality is that it is also about the money. I’m not immune to this, I got roped into this because I thought I could make money writing. If we accept that truth then we will agree that the distribution of the wealth, the recognition, and the power remains unbalanced. 

I came into this space because I saw the opportunity for creatives to retain ownership of their art, and their creative spirit while finding financial freedom so that they could sustain themselves from their creations. I envisioned a world where appreciators, fans, and collectors could invest in unknowns to help support them and would be rewarded down the road when they become mainstream. I envisioned a sustainable, stable ecosystem where artists carved the path toward a more progressive equitable future. 

I thought this was how things could change.

I came to build bottom up.

But many say community when they mean audience. 

Bonfire of the Humanities

Art is a humanity. 

Whether we’re talking about visual art, music, written or spoken word, or film it all teaches us and communicates to others what it means to be human; why we’re here and why we’re alive. It’s about what we think and feel. So let's talk about that.

If we take the time to talk about this, to talk about what you create, the money will follow. There is value in humanity and the money attached to it simply acknowledges that value. 

The artist puts their humanity into their work. People acknowledge it by paying for it. You can’t give away your humanity for free. It comes at a cost. 

A part of you is given to that person when they buy your work. So let’s tell them what they are going to buy. Let’s tell them why it should matter to them. Why you have value. Why you’re willing to part with this piece of you. 

So why are so many of us willing to accept a pittance in return for that humanity? Why do so many of us beg to be seen as people of value to influencers, collectors, or gated communities? If the majority of us (and even the decision-makers for larger organizations) agree that community is what drives the value, why are we accepting the same old hierarchy of things?

We’re negotiating with our unintentional captors, hoping their humanity recognizes our own.

It’s familiar and we’re responsible for accepting it.

Web3 is supposed to be the technological solution to cultural and societal problems. Look at most white papers and there will be ideas of reformation, empowerment, and disruption. Many tech-oriented, buzzwordy, incubator programs look for “disruptors” when those disruptors simply replace and become our new captors. Uber disrupted transportation and became the same taxi service. Netflix disrupted film and cable industries to become the film and cable divisions run by the same producers and executives from the old guard. Spotify, Apple, Google, pick any industry and you will find upstarts that sought to change the dynamics at play only to eventually become exactly what they claim they sought to change.

We know that really good art can also become very valuable in the future…if the right people see it and say the right things about it. How many artists, bands, or movies would be loved if only more people knew they existed? If true art is honest then we deserve to be honest with ourselves.  How the art market is currently structured does not benefit us all. Rather than democratizing the art market, we’ve recreated the same hierarchy system of galleries and museums. The intended disruption settles into familiar old ways.

It’s not. We’re doing the same thing the traditional art market has done for years.

Why does this happen? The answer to all your questions is money. 

How do you disrupt archaic oppressive socio-economic norms for good? 

How do you avoid becoming what you seek to destroy?

Sell-Out, With Me

Throughout any submission process for funding, you have to answer what your project is, what it does, and what it means for the audience. The most common question is, What Problem Are You Fixing? When you hear the word underground regarding art, music, or film, odds are you understand what that means. Underground is a ubiquitous term used throughout our existence.  

OK fine, here’s a definition of underground:

(often initial capital letter) a movement or group existing outside the establishment and usually reflecting unorthodox, avant-garde, or radical views.

I see UNDRGRND as a revolt against the greed and current economic model of the creative industries, the same way the mp3 and Napster took down a broken record industry model. Lately, it seems more and more people are beginning to understand who holds the power.

The other night I saw a Tom Hanks interview discussing the role film and artists play in social change. So how radical are my views if Tom Hanks agrees with me? Especially when the cryptocurrency industry was founded on those radical views.

Pronoia is the belief the universe is conspiring for your benefit. This felt like that and why I ran to the tv to take a picture with my phone like a grandpa.

Maybe the definition of underground needs an update. Maybe it means something as simple as genuine. Genuine creation. Genuine appreciation. Genuine movement towards change.

Every artist is an underground artist until they’re not.

Bitcoin started as an underground movement and now we’re on the cusp of a Bitcoin ETF. Mainstream adoption is inevitable and necessary. Usually, when something becomes mainstream, people like you, but especially curmudgeons like me, will feel it lost something. Whether you call that something lost edge, integrity, or authenticity it all boils down to that dreaded label: selling out.

What if you didn’t have to sell out though?

Why can’t independent mean successful? Why can’t equality be lucrative? Why can’t we achieve a redistribution of wealth to the deserving? Why can’t we reward ethical behavior? Or reward interactions that add to the conversation, rather than a hot take? What if album artwork was valuable? What if a small zine was profitable? What if we didn’t rely on donations or the generosity of the community?

What if you could keep your creative integrity AND be financially successful? 

Curators > Algorithms 

A reason Napster was successful in the late 90s was because the independent artist had a shot. Music blogs began to pop up all over the internet. It was how many of us discovered new music and began to shape our taste. Previously ignored by major labels, genres that never made it to the radio or even a recording studio suddenly began to gain traction. The community around Napster thrived because of the sharing and the dialogue occurring. It connected us with friends, helped us make new friends, and expanded our realm of what was possible. We shared music but we also shared ourselves.

We still do.

The idea of sharing data is just as important as what data is being shared. Biometrics, location mapping, and purchasing habits help AI learn our taste in music, movies, and art (could the rise of AI increase our need for human curation and validation? A topic for another time). If you have this information you can then begin to predict what art, or music will become popular next. We’ve given this information away, for free, to tech firms so that we can be marketed to, and sold an ad, or product we don’t need but loosely relates to our interest resulting in trillions in profit. 

And we’re beginning to do the same now without realizing how important it is.

Our opinions matter, especially to us, and we think it should matter to others. It’s why we read the opinions of others, discuss our own, and grow from them – one of my favorite movies (and books), High Fidelity, captures this perfectly. The whole movie captures a lot of my personality, and my formerly hard-lined beliefs surrounding music, art, and film. But, now that I’m older, softened, it’s the ending, with John Cusak focusing on his partner’s taste to make a mixtape full of things she likes, that I think communicates how our likes and dislikes shape our lives. A perfect metaphor for relationships and what it takes to maintain a healthy loving relationship.Play

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These things define us.

It’s why we vote on things that we like: music, movies, art. It’s why we enjoy discussing top 5 lists (and why UNDRGRND DIGS features five artists). Sometimes we lack the proper articulation of our feelings, thoughts, or ideals and turn to these art forms to help us communicate them to others (e.g. a mixtape). We can use our money to validate those people who help us shape our worldviews, personalities, and emotions (it’s why UNDRGRND purchases work from the artists featured in UNDRGRND DIGS). 

Art can save the soul and foundations on which crypto was based.

Art can and does the same for blockchains.

Einstein Never Said That

Before the next bull run, the next wave of users before the masses return we need to ensure we don’t repeat the mistakes made in 2021. We need something to do away with shill threads, engagement farming, and the hype machine that only produces FOMO. We need better, genuine “influencers” that don’t spam your DMs to offer promotions. We need to do away with the hollow cliches with no change in behavior (The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result).

We need to redefine community. An actual community shares in the means of production and the compensation. Our community, as a whole, does the first but misses out on the latter. How often do artists make a sale here to turn around and pump their earnings back into the ecosystem? How many curators are also artists? How many “failed” musicians know a great song when they hear it and share it with others? How many film students have the knowledge and ability to discern what makes a film good and enjoy discussing it with others? How many people who studied literature can write about these topics and communicate their taste in art, music, or movies to others? 

These individuals drive the transactions all blockchains seek. They make the markets, set the trends, celebrate discoveries, and drive the value to the creative experience. They deserve to be compensated as such. 

You deserve compensation for your community building.

Where the F*ck is this Going?

It was during a pitch to one of those institutional investors that it occurred to me that they were antithetical to what I was building. Why would any investor want to fund something that fundamentally disagrees with their ROI models?

I was in a shill thread and I was pitching old-world crypto influencers. 

I was offering the opportunity to the wrong people. I should have been offering it to you. 

I never wanted to do it this way. My role is to help others, not others to help me. That’s not how I operate. I wanted a finished product. I wanted to hand it to you all on a silver platter and say here, enjoy. But the personal greed and focus on short-term monetary gains I despise, were exactly what delayed this operation. Maybe that’s one of the reasons I’m so motivated to do things differently.

I’m not good at asking for help. However, the hardest lesson I’ve learned this past year: I can’t do this on my own. 

That’s kind of the point of the community. You’re not supposed to do it on your own. The work and the benefits are shared. 

This was the only way this ever could have happened. 

With all of you.

The idea is simple: a marketplace built with gamified curation putting the power of influence in the hands of the community members, it’s called DIG IT. It incentivizes the discovery of and promotion of undervalued creators; it incentivizes curation. Rather than the power remaining in the hands of one or a board of curators, it must be given back to the community. Artists tired of always selling and promoting themselves will have a home alongside individuals motivated to seek out the undiscovered. The notion that only a select few know what art is, or what should be discussed, is a fallacy. We all have selective tastes and if we can back up our claims, it is true. That’s the beauty of subjectivity.

DIG IT works with a token, DIG COIN/$DIG, with distribution, focusing on engagement with the content, rewarding quality conversation, and those who support artists, musicians, and filmmakers. With staking rewards offered to onboard communities of the self-proclaimed degens or potential collectors previously wary of their taste in art. 

I never wanted to build just another marketplace. That doesn’t serve my purpose. It doesn’t serve anyone. There’s enough that currently exists that UNDRGRND will continue to support. There is enough room for all of us to exist. If we all are supposed to make it in this space then that means we all need to make it. If we want to be better than the old dynamics we left the real world to reform here then that means being different. So a large percentage of revenue will go back to the community members who support the creation of the marketplace. 

This will all operate under the newly formed DAO, which will hire writers, video editors, community managers, social media managers, and all other types of employees to fulfill a multitude of needs. Members will play a role in shaping the direction of the UNDRGRND Publication, decide on purchases for the UNDRGRND collection, UNDRGRND drops, and the shows that occur at the UNDRGRND Venue.

This month, I’ll provide the details, dates, how to get involved, and other announcements amidst articles and podcast episodes.

Until then, keep your ear to the ground. 

UNDRGRND.

— NFTjoe, Founder

[eristic-kaleidoscope]

One out of Seven || Kenshin || RE: Mercy Results

Truthfully, throughout the 15 minutes of debate, Kenshin was stressed out. He feared at first that not many people would chip in points or tokens after the conditions were stated. Losing a limb alongside Eiri as punishment…. It was a giant jump, really. It made sense that people wouldn’t be as willing to give up something that crucial, especially considering certain occupations people possessed, or previous trauma of theirs. He feared because of that double standard, not many people would chip in.

…seven.

Seven people. Six out of the eight alive people, plus Ae-ra wanting to assist from beyond the grave with her points. Maybe he needed to thank her, owe her one, maybe he needed to do that with everyone that stepped up. Since, well… Certain people caught him slightly off guard, namely Adrik and END, but the fact all them wanted to fight to keep Eiri alive like this…

…fuck-

He rubs slightly at his eyes.

Thank god, thank fucking god they don’t want to give her up. That they want to keep her alive. That they’ve come this far to be willing to give up a part of themselves to help her survive. He truly didn’t know what to say.

Quietly, he watches Eiri plead for people to reconsider, unsure why they would be willing to drop everything to help her. It’s just proving his point, that she was loved, that people wanted to help her. It made sense that she would be in dismay, and yet

Despite her words, she was worth saving.

Once the 15 minutes were up, Kenshin’s eyes flicker back up to them. Once they confirm that the mercy agreement had passed, it felt like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. Grief had been released from his chest. While he still worried about Eiri’s sake after what punishment might impact her, he didn’t have to watch her lose her own life in this fucked up place.

But he couldn’t breathe easy just yet.

As An scans over the names, before calling out that… suddenly new nickname of his, Kenshin freezes. His eyes go wide for a moment, before they close slightly. So… him, huh? Just because people would be the most affected by it? Just because he’s liked, so that he deserves it? On top of the fact that he’s Eiri’s loved one? Seems overly cruel, and yet…

He takes a deep breath, reopening his eyes to stare at the floor for a few moments, processing the swirl of thoughts appearing in his mind.

“.....”

“......just over 14 percent.” He muses to himself, eyes trailing back over to the host duo. “One out of seven. Not the greatest odds, and yet not the worst. I figured with more and more people jumping in to help, it would keep reducing the odds. Not for myself, but to protect the people that other volunteers cared about. To make sure the odds of getting them are slim…”

But still possible.

Truthfully, Kenshin would have been a bit upset if someone else was chosen. While he was beyond delighted for the assistance, willing to sacrifice so much in order to help someone he cares about so much, after this trial… if someone were to have taken that place-

…..this should be his punishment, after all that. After lying and trying to mislead the group. Not to mention, being the one to take the fall, alongside Eiri. It was in his nature to go to this extreme, and yet for it to actually occur… The blurriness in his mind slows down, thoughts stirring for a few moments.

Eiri’s alive. Eiri will remain alive.

There, that smile reappears on his face. Calming, warm, almost like he didn’t care what was going to happen to him at the end of the half-hour.

“....I was hoping that I would have been the one to be chosen.” It was rather obvious, considering his extreme sense of self-sacrifice. “I mean, I almost threw the trial if I would have kept lying, not to mention possibly getting someone else killed so surely I should have been the one to be selected. It wouldn’t make sense for someone else to take the fall for the actions I did prior. When I said I was willing to do anything, I meant it.”

“While I know it was decently random, I was just hoping the odds were going to be in my favor- er, well, against my favor in this case. And yet…..”

“.....god, fuck, this really couldn’t have been done without you all. Being willing to possibly sacrifice a part of yourself to save Kokone- or, well, Kori- but I-” His voice wavers slightly, trying to keep his emotions together. After the rollercoaster of feelings he had experienced in the past few hours, he needed to keep it together right now. “I don’t know how to thank you all enough. Even just suggesting the idea, going along with it. I get not being willing to take such a major risk but-”

To think they wouldn’t give up on Eiri, even after all this. Emotions and feelings of grief were understandable, they were justified, but to keep pushing for her survival. To keep saying that she should be kept alive since they were at the end. The fact that a majority of the group was willing to risk it all to save her.

He lightly laughs.

“......I’m really happy you all were willing to protect her. I wouldn’t want these results to be any other way.” Keeping her alive, with him being the sacrifice…

That alone shows how much they care so much about her.

As Byrne scoops him and Eiri into a hug for a few moments, Kenshin stands there a bit in shock, before easing into the hug. Wrapping his arms around them both for a few moments, he steps back slightly once he lets go.

“Hey, hey it’s like you said. I’ll be okay-! I’m going to be okay, we both will be.” His eyes trail back to the group. “It’ll be fine, I can take whatever is thrown at me, and I can get through it. I’m just glad nobody else is in my place. Just know we’ll be back soon, and we can spend whatever’s left of the 30 minutes assuring that. Don’t worry.”

“So, yeah, trust me, we’ll be okay. I’ll be okay.”

Maybe he shouldn’t speak for Eiri right now, as she can share her own thoughts and feelings on the matter but-

They’ll be okay. They’ll be maimed, of course, but they’ll still be alive. Preventing a senseless death in this place, preventing the kill count from growing higher and higher. Finally some sort of stop to this insane experiment. Of course he was willing to brave it. Him getting hurt as a trade-off to save someone’s life? Save a loved one’s life? It was worth it. Considering how he was willing to trade his own life for the same reward… yeah. Yeah he’s ready to face this whenever. And soon enough, he’ll return back to the group.

A major sacrifice for the greater good. Ready to see what’s coming for him whenever the time ran out, ready to return back with Eiri once it all was through. This time could be spent preparing everyone else, as Kenshin’s warm smile continued to remain on his face. Whatever comfort’s necessary, he shall give.

One out of seven, maybe he was lucky, keeping everyone else safe. He should be happy, relieved that he was the one in his place.

…….so why did his hands shake slightly?

[sunriseinorbit]

i have thoughts about sonic frontiers and nowhere to put them, so i am throwing them under a read more on tumblr dot com that you are free to peruse if you so desire!

okay i know it's going to sound like i'm complaining, so i want to stress first that i enjoyed this game a lot, as you can probably tell! there's a lot of good here, and at the very least, i would definitely consider it a step in the right direction. however. the honeymoon phase is waning.

thought number 1: sega hire this man

a lot of people have said that this game needed more time in the oven, and while i do agree with that, i think the thing it needed most was more people. i don't remember how many people worked on this game, but it is a massive step up from forces and deserved a much larger team to match. while it may not have solved the conceptual problems with the game (which i promise i will get to) it definitely would have softened the technical blow, because as it stands, and as i'm sure anyone who's played the game has noticed, there are a lot of technical issues, particularly with 3d-2d transitions just not working. (also maybe it would have given us more complete 4th and 5th islands but that's a discussion for

thought number 2: rhea island

rhea island is the point in the game where it became very obvious that sonic team ran out of time, money, or (more likely) both. and that makes me sad because rhea island could have been so cool as the spot where the tension in the story reaches its peak, and here's just a few ideas for how i would have made it better:

have something to do between the towers. maybe you have to unlock the map to figure out where the next tower is. maybe you have to go through a maze or do another challenge to find the next tower. maybe you have to do a miniboss rush. literally anything would be better than what we have right now.

DYNAMIC MUSIC. rhea and ouranos island only have one music track each where the other islands had seven, and rhea could have used it the most. with every tower you find out something new about the ancients and sonic gets closer to death, i would have loved to see the music reflect that somehow.

something at the end. my personal pick would be end of the world from sonic 06 but good, where tails, knuckles, amy, and possibly sage go through a cyber space gauntlet to save sonic, but i also don't know how that would work gameplay/playstyle wise.

thought number 3: sonic frontiers would be a better game if cyber space just straight up was not in it

i don't know if that's a hot take, but i was watching somecallmejohnny's review and he mentioned that he enjoyed the little platforming challenges (not the memory token stuff, like the part on ares island where you have to go over the water to get to knuckles) more than cyber space, which is something i totally agree with. not only because in those challenges you have your open zone speed upgrades, but because they directly address the elephant in the room when it comes to cyber space, which is what this section is entirely about:

the recycling of old level content is absolutely fucking ridiculous. i could forgive reusing level aesthetics if they were from something we'd never seen before (and since cyber space is supposed to be running through memories, it would have been cool to revisit something new) but no, it's just green hill, chemical plant, and sky sanctuary with reused generations assets to match (and most of the city levels don't show up until ouranos). i do not want to see green hill zone ever again.

but frontiers threw something new into the mix with reused level layouts and geometry, and i don't think that's inherently bad. i think calling back to specific set pieces or iconic chunks of old levels could be really cool, like circling the tower to get up to the rocket in metal harbor. however, i think the key is doing it in moderation, which frontiers does not do. because they will just copy entire levels. granted, i didn't notice a lot of the reused levels my first time playing, but that doesn't change how blatant they are.

and i think it's especially egregious when combined with the reused aesthetics, because some of these levels are copied from their sonic generations counterparts. and they use generations graphics and assets. at that point, why am i not just playing generations? i'm definitely not playing the cyber space levels for the physics!

i really think they should have just put the energy they used for cyber space into just making more interesting challenges and stuff in the overworld, because i had a lot of fun with the stuff that was already there and as much as i enjoyed the levels, on a conceptual level cyber space feels like a holdover from the forces era and sticks out like a sore thumb.

[finelinevogue]

Can we get some more brother!harry?

I really enjoyed your piece where he caught her smoking ❤️

of course you can!! (rip if your name is natalia) hope this is what you wanted;

Natalia.

Beautiful name to juxtapose a horrible excuse of a human being.

Harry was never that great when it came to choosing his girlfriends, but this one was by far the worst. Bekka had been bad, because she had been cheating on Harry with her best friends dad. India was just so toxic, to the point where she’d ask Harry why he wasn’t mad with her over the most trivial things as if she wanted him to be mad. Daya was ok, but she wanted different things to what Harry wanted and so they ended up in a massive argument and ending things quicker than they started. Natalia though, wow. She was something else and that wasn’t a compliment.

You don’t know whether it was just because she targeted you especially, but she was just a downright cruel person. You could easily tell her intentions with your brother were not good. She was a plain ol’ gold digger, evident from the credit card that Harry leant her and she spent so much on it the bank had to call Harry to ask him to authorise that he was aware of the amount of money being spent. She bought a car with his card. A fucking car. Harry was too blinded by her beauty and her experience that he was oblivious to her witchy behaviour towards you. It wasn’t like you hadn’t tried to tell him either, it was more that he didn’t care enough.

“No Harry. No.” You argued with him, standing in the middle of the kitchen as he was busy washing the rest of the dishes in the sink. It was just the two of you home at the moment, because Gemma and Anne were spending the weekend at an exclusive spa in Cheshire, so you didn’t understand how there were so many dishes.

“Y/N, it’s not an option. You’re not staying at home by yourself.” Harry spoke sternly back to you, letting out his frustration by vigorously scrubbing the dishes.

“I’m literally 17 - 18 in like 3 weeks. I’m more than capable of staying home.” You stomped your foot to the ground like a child.

“And I don’t care. You’re coming to lunch whether you want to or not.” Harry finished the last plate and dries his hands on the towel next to the sink, before throwing it over to you.

“But she’ll be there.”

“She’s my girlfriend, so you’ll nice to her.”

“If she’s nice to me, then yeah.” You rolled your eyes and walked over to the sink to start drying the dishes that Harry just cleaned.

“ Y/N, I swear to God.” Harry groaned in frustration, tugging a stressful hand through his hair. “Can you at least pretend to be happy for me for once?”

“Gee Harry, i’m just so happy to be going out to lunch with you and your girlfriend!” You put on the biggest grin as your sarcasm practically dripped from your tongue.

“Stop being a spoilt little shit and finish those dishes. We’re leaving in 20.” Harry spoke harshly, before leaving the room with a heavy strop to his step. It left you to blink back the tears that you couldn’t help that Natalia was ruining your whole relationship with your brother.

You and Harry used to be so tight nit, now it would be a miracle if he spent a day with you per month. Natalia had come along 5 months ago and she had completely turned Harry’s life around for the worst, only Harry was too ignorant to see that. Anne had come home multiple times to find you crying because Harry had cancelled on you, again, or Natalia had said something that had really hurt. Normally you were okay with taking hate, but Natalia made it somehow worse than that. Even if Anne or Gemma tried to talk Harry about the damage all this was causing you it would always be the same response;

“She just wants attention.”

The restaurant was very pretty.

It was one that you and Harry used to go to all the time, when there was no girlfriend around. It sold the best pastries and life-changing eggs on toast. The food was always delicious and the staff were so completely lovely. You were glad to be coming here, making you feel more comfortable than you would if you went to a expensive fancy restaurant instead. This little restaurant, named ‘Lemon Puffs’ after their infamous lemon, cream and pastry puffs, made you feel safe and happy.

“Remember to just be nice.” Harry spoke as you both approached the table that Natalia was already sat at. She was too busy on her phone to realise you were even here.

“If she plays nice then yeah.” You bit back.

“Y/N just stop being petty, y’pissing me off now.” Harry argued. “Whine like a bitch later. I don’t need it today.”

You stopped talking after that, not having anything else to say to him. He’d made it very clear that you were only here because he didn’t trust you at home by yourself, but by the same token wanted you quiet because he didn’t trust you enough to speak nicely. Harry hugged and kissed Natalia like he hadn’t just seen her last night and then sat down opposite to her, leaving you to sit next to Harry because you sure as hell weren’t sitting next to her. Natalia didn’t even make the effort to hug you or shake hands, in fact you barely got a simple hello.

“You alright, baby?” Natalia asked, twirling her hand into Harry’s from across the table. Disgusting.

“Yeah i’m good. This one’s a pain in my arse, as always.” Even with his joking tone, you knew he was being somewhat serious and that really messed with you.

“Typical.” Natalia rolled her eyes and tutted her tongue, not hesitating to use the opportunity to be mean to you. Harry thought she was merely playing along with his words, but you new otherwise.

“You know what you want yet?” Harry asked as he pulled his own attention towards the menu. You didn’t need to look at the menu, as being here so many times has allowed you to discover the perfect order.

“I think i’m just going to get the salad, but without the chicken, cheese or cucumber.” She answered, sipping on the water she must’ve already ordered whilst waiting for you both.

“So just lettuce?” You asked, not meaning for it to be a condescending question and yet she took it that way anyways.

“Is there something wrong with that, Y/N?” She asked, being really harsh in the way she spoke your name - as if the syllables actually caused her pain to speak.

“N-no I was just—”

“Didn’t think so.” She snapped and turned away from you to look back towards Harry, with her shit-eating grin that didn’t fool you. Harry kicked you leg under the table too, not appreciating the way you were speaking to Natalia. He didn’t even think about the way his girlfriend was speaking to you though. As usual.

“I’ll probably get the salad too.” Harry nodded his head and you shook your head as he spoke. Harry would never normally get a salad. Like, that’s so Kardashian of him. Harry, whenever he came here with you, always ordered a cheese and pickle panini, with extra crunchy pickles, a portion of chips and some halloumi fries too. Oh and then a cake for pudding. He wouldn’t have gone for a boring salad. Fucking Natalia was ruining him and you hated to have a front row seat of it.

“Not the usual then?” You tried to joke with him, but he was clearly still pissed off with you for being… you.

“Why, are you?” He asked quizzically.

“Obviously.” You smiled, which made Harry smile for a split second before Natalia pulled him away from you. Your smile disappeared and a frown settled in, knowing it would stay there for a long time.

“Babe, I am here too you know?” Natalia joked, bur you could see the anger and jealousy behind her eyes. If looked could kill you’d be ten feet under, twenty times over by now.

“Sorry, yeah.” Harry cleared his throat and paid closer attention to her.

Lunch went by slowly.

Natalia scoffed when she heard your order; poached eggs on toast with three pieces of crispy bacon on the side, a portion of chips and a mint iced tea. Oh and a cake for pudding, but you’d come to that later. Natalia ate her lettuce as Harry eat his salad as you ate your eggs on toast with bacon and chips. You loved the food, hated the company and couldn’t make up your mind whether you loved or hated being here. Natalia and Harry talked throughout lunch, leaving you out of all their conversations. The only time Harry spoke to you was when he asked whether your food was okay, eyeing it up as if he wanted to make love to it and send his salad to the nearest dumpster.

“Was everything alright for you?” Paul, the owner of the business and dude in charge of the eggs asked you when all your plates were empty as Harry’s growling stomach.

“Lovely, thank you.” Harry responded gratefully.

“Perfect.” You smiled as you handed your dirty plate to Paul.

“It was a bit plain.” Natalia moved her plate away from her in disgust and Paul put on his best customer smile, apologising for that before leaving to go and ring up the bill.

“Okay i’m just going to go for a quick wee before I pay.” Harry announced, getting up from the table to go to the loo.

“Okay babe. Don’t be too long.” She called out and then it was left just you and her.

“Well this was nice.” You tried to be nice, as Harry told you to, and start a meant conversation with your arch enemy. Kill ‘em with kindness - that was Harry’s slogan wasn’t it?

“If you hadn’t have been here then yeah.” She turned her nose up at you.

“Look,” you began, wanting her to understand something, “whatever i’ve done to upset you and make you hate me, i’m sorry. Just, I don’t want you to dislike me and I know that Harry really likes you so I want us to be able to get along.”

“Listen, Y/N,” there it was again - your name spoken with dripping venom, “I don’t want to get along with you. You make me sick. You are such a baby to Harry and you’re needy, which means I don’t get to spend time with my boyfriend—”

“Don’t get to spend time with him?” You had to laugh at that. Apart from today, you’d seen Harry maybe a total of 2 hours this whole week and it was Saturday. “You’re practically attached at the hip.”

“Not enough. Harry needs to keep away from you, you only bring him trouble.”

“I’m his fucking sister.” You shouted quietly, not wanting to disturb the peace for the rest of the customers.

“Not an excuse. Look Y/N, I understand that you are quite lonely and don’t have many friends? Maybe you should consider that’s for a very good reason?” She rhetorically asked you and that made you sit back a bit. She was pulling apart your insecurities now and exposing them to find the most painful parts, so she could watch you suffer with only the curse of her words.

“It’s not like that.” You tried to convince yourself more than her, tears in your eyes over something so hurtful to you.

“No? ‘Cause I think that you aren’t the kind of person anyone wants around, including Harry.” She stood up dusted herself off as he noticed Harry walk back over to the table, smiling as if she hadn’t just shot his sister in the heart.

Her words stung more than a scorpions tale, and yes unfortunately you knew what that felt like. Natalia was right. You were alone, friendless and just trouble. There was a reason that you were all of this and Natalia had hit the nail right on the head with the reason why. You thought of your friends, his they always disappeared and left you and now you sit in the canteen alone or hang out only with yourself on the weekends. You think to Gemma and Anne going away for the weekend, not inviting you because it was age restrictive but you still couldn’t help but think there was a more pressing reason than that. Then you think of Harry and how he was fed up of you. He couldn’t be more resentful of you if he tried. You wanted to be a good friend, a good daughter and most importantly a good sister, but it was so blindingly obvious that you weren’t. You were never going to be.

You stood up from the table too, quickly wiping away a tear from your face before anyone could notice but you didn’t care to see if anyone was actually watching. Harry kissed Natalia and then walked over to the cashier to pay the bill. You noticed Paul and Harry talking and so you walked out of the restaurant and towards the car, still tears in your eyes. You needed to be strong for yourself though, especially because nobody else was going to be.

You stood with you handle to the door of the car waited for Harry to come and unlock it. You heard high heels before the car was unlocked, unfortunately.

“Excuse me, but I ride front.” Natalia spat at you, removing your hand from the door and chivvying you to the back of the car instead.

“You’re coming with us?” You asked, your heart aching that little bit more. You didn’t want to spend another minute in her presence and yet she would now probably spend the rest of the week until your mum and sister came back.

“Ye—”

“No she’s not.” Harry walked out of the restaurant and over to the car, standing in between the both of you but a little more towards you.

“Babe? What do you mean?” Natalia asked, a little bit shocked at his tone with her.

“Firstly dont babe me. Secondly, get your hand off my car. Thirdly, don’t ever come near me or my sister ever again.” Harry ordered angrily. You’d never seen him this angry before. You stood behind him, afraid of what was about to go down.

“What has she said to you, because—”

“She’s my sister and she’s got a name. Y/N didn’t tell me anything. Lemon Puffs, however, has eyes and ears everywhere and it’s amazing the stories you hear when you’re stood at the cashier or next to someone at the urinals.” Harry accused Natalia and she went hot red in the face, embarrassed that this conversation was actually happening.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“No? Maybe this will jog your memory. ‘I think you aren’t the kind of person anyone wants around, including Harry.’” Harry raised his eyebrows and crossed his arms over his chest confrontationally. Guarding and protecting you. You felt safe.

“Wha— You think I would say that?” Natalia asked, pretending to be offended by the accusation.

“I don’t know, let’s ask Y/N shall we? Y/N, did Natalia say that to you?” Harry asked, turning to look at you with hope in his eyes, but also sorriness for everything that’s happened. You could see it all behind his eyes and you wanted to squeeze him tight to accept his apology, because you loved him and you needed him.

“Y-yes.” You answered, looking down so you didn’t have to make eye contact with Natalia.

“Harry you can’t possibly believe her.” Natalia laughed, but there was heavy insecurity in her tone.

“I trust her more than anyone. More than you. I trust Y/N with my life.” Harry back answered, taking no more bullshit from his ex-girlfriend. “We’re done Natalia. Okay? I don’t want to see you ever again. What you’ve said and done to my sister is unforgivable and I don’t want someone like you in my life.”

“You were a dick too.” You added quietly behind him and he just turned round to smile and wink at you.

“So what? That’s it?” Natalia asked, dumbfounded.

“Bye Natalia.” Harry walked around to the drivers seat and you to the passenger side. He stopped before opening the door though, wanting to say one last thing. “The bill was split in half by the way. Paul’s just inside waiting for you to pay.”

With that, you both got in the car, laughing at Natalia’s reaction and just everything. Apologises were made and promises of no relationships until you two had built back up yours were sworn. It would take time, but Harry was willing to prove that he was a good brother and you were always going to be someone he wanted around.

[blu-joons]

DAD SEVENTEEN A⇴Z HEADCANON ⇴ Kim Mingyu

A ⇴ AFFECTION

As much as he could, Mingyu would be affectionate with you. He loved to be around you as much as he possibly could at the best of times, but now that you were pregnant as well, he would be glued to your side quite a lot of the time.

B ⇴ BUMP

When he had his arms around your bump, Mingyu would often keep his hands towards the bottom of your bump so that he could hold some of the weight and make life a little bit easier for you. Even if it was just for a few minutes, feeling the weight lift from in front of you would be a huge relief for you to just relax for a moment.

C ⇴ CRAVINGS

Whatever you needed, Mingyu would get it for you, he always promised to take care of you whenever it could, and he meant that especially when it came down to your cravings. Even if it meant having to go on a drive to get what you needed, he would never leave you to crave and get stressed for too long.

D ⇴ DUE DATE

You ended up going over your due date, which Mingyu knew frustrated you a lot. In the days after, he did as much research as he could on things that could help encourage labour, taking you on plenty of walks along your street especially to help you out. He would stay by your side when you sat on your bouncy ball, holding onto your waist to make sure that you didn’t fall, helping to try and induce your labour as quickly as possible.

E ⇴ EMOTIONS

He didn’t care how many people knew that he was excited about becoming a dad, Mingyu would shout it from the rooftops if he could. Most people around him would get sick and tired of listening to him brag about the fact that the two of you were having a baby, most of the time he would talk about nothing else. Even around you, he would talk constantly about your baby until you had no choice but to tell him to shut up.

F ⇴ FAMILY

Both of your families were heavily involved in helping you with your pregnancy, doing whatever they could to help you out. Usually, it meant filling the gaps that Mingyu left when he was busy at work, making sure that you weren’t alone for too long, but even when he was with you, they would still be at your place quite a lot of the time to see if you had any odd jobs that you needed help with, or just to give you some company.

G ⇴ GENDER

There was no chance of Mingyu waiting to find out whether he was having a boy or a girl, from the moment he found out that you were pregnant straight away he began to get excited about the gender. He didn’t care if you had a boy or a girl, but he certainly wanted to know which one as quickly as possible.

H ⇴ HEARTBEAT

It was always an emotional moment for Mingyu to hear your baby’s heartbeat, he could never quite get used to it. It would often leave him surprised, no matter how many times he heard it, his smile would instantly turn up as soon as he heard it, letting you know that he had managed to find the beat he was looking for.

I ⇴ “I LOVE YOU”

Whenever he could, Mingyu would let you know that he loved you, saying it over and over again. He never felt like there were enough times when he could tell you that he loved you whilst you were pregnant, those three words were just a small token of appreciation from Mingyu to let you know how grateful he was for you.

J ⇴ JEALOUSY

Even though he wasn’t necessarily jealous, Mingyu was very protective of both you and your bump whenever you weren’t at home. He would often refuse to leave your side when you were at social events, it didn’t matter who you were around and safe you would be around them, Mingyu would keep his arm around your waist whenever you were on your feet and sit down beside you when you were at the table too.

K ⇴ KICKS

His eyes would often look to you whenever he felt a kick, almost as if he was searching for assurance that he wasn’t going to crazy. There would sometimes be a doubt in him as to whether he was feeling a kick or just hoping he felt a kick, but as soon as you nodded back at him, he would smile in relief that he felt another kick.

L ⇴ LABOUR

Mingyu was the most perfect birthing partner that you could have ever wanted for. You always knew that he was attentive of what you needed and cared for you whenever he was right by your side, but the kindness in him was heightened during your labour. Seeing you in pain was horrendous for him, whatever he could do to help you, he would do it, it took all night long, but eventually all the hurt was worth it.

M ⇴ MORNING SICKNESS

The two of you would be in the bathroom together every morning, Mingyu would never leave you alone, you so much as had to stick one leg out of the bed and he would be up too knowing exactly what was about to happen, racing through behind you and moving your hair out of the way as soon as you leant over.

N ⇴ NURSERY

Mingyu couldn’t wait to prove himself to you with the nursery and show you how domesticated he could be. He absolutely refused any help when it came to putting the nursery together, it was definitely his pride and joy.

O ⇴ OBSESSION

He was obsessed with your hands and how you would always have them resting over your bump when you weren’t busy. When he couldn’t protect your bump, Mingyu knew that you’d be there to hold your bump and keep it safe instead.

P ⇴ POST BIRTH

Mingyu barely let you lift a finger after you gave birth for quite some time, he saw no reason in rushing you to get back on your feet whilst he was at home. More than anything else, Mingyu just wanted for you to focus on being a mum and leave everything else that you usually worried about for him to sort out instead.

Q ⇴ QUESTIONS

Whenever he joins you, the first thing Mingyu always asks you is if there is anything that you need. It doesn’t matter how big or small the thing you need help with is, he will always make sure to step up wherever he is need.

R ⇴ RANDOM FACTS

The two of decided to go with a strong theme for your nursery so that you could find lots of specific items and collectibles to put in your nursery. Being able to have plenty of items from a collection was something the two of you were big fans of, with many of Mingyu’s collectibles already scattered around the house.

S ⇴ SCANS

Your scan photos were kept safely in Mingyu’s phone case so that he was always able to have a look. He loved that it was a good trigger for other people to ask about your baby too, giving him the perfect excuse to talk people’s ears off and tell them just about everything that he could about your pregnancy too.

T ⇴ TEST

For a couple of days, the two of you had been able to tell that something wasn’t quite right, in the end Mingyu suggested that you took a pregnancy test, never expecting for it to end up coming back positive, however.

U ⇴ ULTRASOUND

Mingyu always made sure to be prepared well in advance of your appointments so that the two of you would get there ready, and with time to spare.

V ⇴ VISITS

Almost as soon as you got home you invited your families around to introduce them to your baby, excited both to see them bond with your baby, and also to take advantage of all the help that they could give you both too.

W ⇴ WAITING

Everyday was different with Mingyu, some days he would want for your baby to arrive immediately, other days he just made the most of pregnancy.

X ⇴ XXXX

Whenever he kissed you, Mingyu always did it in the hope that you felt safe in his company. He would never kiss you for no reason, he would protect you with his affection, as well as taking care of your bump as well.

Y ⇴ YOU

You were his best friend, there was no one else for Mingyu.

Z ⇴ ZZZ

At night he loved to hold onto your bump and make the most of those little wriggles and kicks. He would try and keep your bump as settled as possible so that you could at least try and get some rest through the night.

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Masterlist