#i think a lot of fans have similar problems w their expectations

[elibean]

I worry that like, i want lc to be more than it is

[firewasabeast]

(I made this little headcanon then had to write a fic for it. Here's 2k words of the 118 being obsessed with Tommy ft. Bobby being a dad, of course. Enjoy here or on ao3!)

The Problem

Buck has a problem.

He knows it shouldn't be a problem. Knows he should be grateful. He's never had anything like this before. Never felt so secure in his life. Work is good, home is good, friends are good, family's good, and his boyfriend... well, he's really good.

Buck is in love, like really and truly in love, for the first time ever. Yes, he's said it before, and maybe he meant it, but not like this. He's never had this much stability, and care, and comfort, and security. Buck doesn't just love Tommy, he feels loved by Tommy. Since the moment the words I love you slipped out of Tommy's mouth, there has never been a doubt in his mind that Tommy means it. And he knows that Tommy feels the same way about him too.

But none of that is the problem.

The problem is he's not the only one who loves Tommy.

All of his coworkers love Tommy.

A lot.

Apparently he is a very popular guy with the 118. Buck always knew Tommy was a cool guy, even when he first tried and failed to discredit the claim, but he didn't realize that every single one of his coworkers would also think Tommy was the coolest guy to ever walk the planet.

Okay, maybe they didn't actually think that, but it was obvious that they liked him and they wanted to be around him.

All. The. Time.

At first it was cute. Buck was thrilled that everyone liked the person he was dating. He was overjoyed that they always had something positive to say about Tommy, that they had him included in group chats, and invited him to hangout with the team after a shift.

Then it became... a lot to manage.

Chimney and Tommy had a long history, so it was to be expected that they would hang out on occasion. They both loved to watch classic movies and, while Buck didn't mind one every once in a while, he wasn't a huge fan of black and white so he let them have their time with that. He just didn't expect Chimney to add the Old Classics Movie Network to his cable subscription so there was always another movie being recorded that they needed to watch and analyze.

Tommy and Eddie were already friends, and Buck and Eddie were best friends, so it was easy for the three of them to hang out. Buck could get into wrestling, he liked karaoke trivia, and he was a big fan of learning Muay Thai. But that's where Eddie had a problem.

“Every time you come to Muay Thai,” Eddie whined, “you and Tommy end up going one round, get all horned up, and leave early.”

“All horned up?” Buck repeated with a glare. “What are we, fifteen?”

“You're banned from Muay Thai,” he declared, holding up a finger to silence Buck's incoming protests, “at least once a week.”

Then there was Hen, who Buck thought would care the least of them all.

He was wrong.

She became convinced that she was the reason he and Tommy ever got together, not Chimney.

“Chimney may have been the one to contact Tommy, but it was me who planted the seed in his head,” she'd say, “so I was actually the one who connected you two.”

It turns out Tommy and Karen also had a lot of similar interests, so one double date turned into regular double dates. Often, Karen was texting or calling Tommy to set up the next double date before Buck even knew a thing about it.

Hen also enjoyed Tommy's dry humor. They could battle back and forth for hours in sarcasm wars, and often enjoyed hating on the same things.

Even Ravi wedged his way into Tommy's life. He actually wanted flying lessons for other purposes than staring at Tommy for hours at a time while he rambled on about what each button did.

And Tommy was so kind, so insanely, annoyingly, kind that he always made time for everybody. Buck had no idea how he did it, but he did. He even always had time for Buck too, Buck just wanted more of it.

He knew it was selfish. He knew Tommy deserved to have all the friends and found family in the world, which is why he'd never say anything to him about it.

But, he could talk to Bobby. Ask Bobby to talk to the rest of the team, because he'd tried and they wouldn't listen to him. Or, maybe Bobby could just schedule him off a day where everyone else worked? Give Buck and Tommy a day where distractions weren't possible, because all of the distractions were busy at the station. Surely he could do something.

He should've known better.

The second he tapped on Bobby's office door, Bobby excitedly waved him in.

“It came in the mail today,” he declared, as if Buck was supposed to know what that meant.

“Wh- What came in the mail?” Buck asked cautiously as he sat down.

“The murder mystery game Tommy and I talked about last time you guys came over. I had no clue he was so into puzzles and mysteries. I already talked to Tommy, and you two are coming over for dinner tonight.”

“We are?” Buck asked. This was a lot of information to be thrown his way so quickly.

“Yes. Well, he actually said he'd ask you about it and then confirm, but you already said you didn't have plans earlier, so...”

He should've known that question was a trap. Bobby had asked what everyone's plans were while they were on the way to a call earlier in the day. Buck had answered that he and Tommy didn't have any, which was risky, but his mind went blank in the moment. His actual plans involved a lot of nudity, mind blowing sex, and hopefully some whipped cream, but he was trying to not be so blatant about his sex life anymore.

But now Bobby was looking at him with wide, excited eyes, and he did remember Tommy talking about that game, and Bobby's food was always so good, so it wasn't like he could say no.

“Yeah, of course it's fine.”

Which led them to now, having just enough time to shower and change before driving over to Bobby and Athena's place.

“I know we haven't had as much us time lately,” Tommy said as they reached the door. Of course he did. Of course he noticed everything. “So we'll stay for dinner, and do this game, and we'll go by nine.”

Buck tried to play it cool. “No rush.”

“Evan,” Tommy replied knowingly, dropping a kiss on his temple, “we'll go by nine.”

Who was Buck to argue? “Yeah... Yeah, okay.”

Dinner went smoothly, as if there was another option. Tommy was always great at keeping up conversation, and he and Bobby knew tons of people to reminisce about and catch up on. Tommy had a long history with Athena as well, and a lot of mutual respect between the two, so the conversation never stalled.

It wasn't like Buck was ever left out either. Bobby and Athena were his family; more of his parents than his actual parents. Bobby cared for him, loved him, watched over him in ways his father never did. Athena was a dose of reality when he needed it. She was stern, expected the best from him, and didn't whitewash anything. He felt more comfortable in their home than he ever did in the house he grew up in.

And Tommy always had a hand on his leg, or his back, including him in the conversation or bragging on whatever he did at work that week. When Buck talked, Tommy looked at him like nothing else existed in the world. He listened, hung on to every word.

He made Buck feel special.

Which is why Buck wanted to take him home, rip off all of his clothes, and adore every inch of his body.

He couldn't do that yet though, because it was only seven-thirty and they still had to play the murder mystery game.

It started innocently enough. It was a fun game with pictures, paperwork, some evidence, and background on all the suspects. Buck figured they'd read through the material, follow along, and they'd be led to the murderer in no time.

Then Bobby rolled out the cork board and began pinning suspect photographs and pictures from the “crime scene”.

Things devolved from there.

Athena gave up before nine. “I solve murders all day long, I don't want to do it all night too.”

Buck still held out hope they'd leave on time.

Another mistake.

“Hon, it's getting late,” Buck said a little after nine, gently patting Tommy's back. They were sitting beside one another at the dining room table. Buck had been half paying attention, half going through a Wikipedia rabbit hole that started with active US serial killers and had somehow ended up on the origins of duct tape. “Maybe we should let them get some rest.”

“Buck, we haven't solved the murder yet,” Bobby replied, lifting both of his hands to show all the paperwork. “Cassie's ex-boyfriend is a prime suspect, but I have no physical evidence to prove he did it.”

“I think we should look more into the circus clown,” Tommy replied, handing Bobby yet another piece of fictional paperwork. “I learned a long time ago that you never trust a clown.”

“We already cleared the clown. He had an alibi.”

“Did he though? His best friend, the balloon artist, was his alibi. The clown could've paid him off.”

That's when Buck decided he'd be better off slipping away and joining Athena in the living room.

“Would you like some leftover pie?” Athena asked, eyebrow raised knowingly, as she lifted up her own slice.

Buck nodded. “I got it.”

He returned a moment later, pie in hand, extra whipped cream. He sat down on the couch, across from where Athena was curled up on the loveseat.

“There's not much on right now,” Athena said, staring at the TV, “but these home improvement shows always find a way to reel me in.”

“As long as it's not a murder mystery, I'll enjoy it.”

Athena let out a laugh. “They're in it deep, aren't they?”

“I'm not sure an actual murder would take them away from that game.”

Athena shook her head, peering into the dining room. “Our boys are something else, aren't they?”

Buck smiled. He couldn't help the butterflies in his stomach. The night may not be going as planned, but there was something so sweet, so domestic, about it all.

Everything felt... right.

“Yeah,” he replied, “they're something.”

Two more shows started and ended, and Tommy and Bobby could still be heard in the other room, arguing about whether it was the clown or the ex.

“You know, I looked up that game a while ago,” Athena whispered into the darkness of the living room, the only light from flashes on the TV, “and it wasn't the clown or the ex.”

Buck sighed sleepily. “I think we'll be spending the night tonight,” he mumbled, his eyes slowly closing where he laid on the couch.

“Already made up the guest bedroom,” Athena replied, taking another sip of her drink. “New toothbrushes in the bathroom too.”

It'd be another two hours before Tommy would come and gently wake up Buck and lead him to the guest bedroom. They'd brush their teeth, and change into some of Bobby's pajama pants before snuggling in bed.

And then, before the sun rose, Tommy would be popping up from a dead sleep to exclaim, “It was the candlemaker!” before running out of the room, and apparently right into Bobby who- from the sounds of their mumbled laughter and high fives- had the same epiphany.

Yeah, Buck had a problem. And he hoped he had it for the rest of his life.

[ghostlykeyes]

i rlly like your work, heartsteel needs more content tbh,, so ty!! ANYWAY,

i liked the general relationship/kiss hcs w kayn, would u be able to do that for the other two as well?? if that makes sense

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HEARTSTEEL YONE: RELATIONSHIP HEADCANONS ♡ Gender Neutral ♡ SFW, with light touching/sensuality ♡ TW: Some alcohol usage/food mentions ♡ I've done Sett's kisses here (X) and relationship HCs here (X), and Yone's kisses here (X) ! (will I remember to come back and edit those links in??? only time will tell)

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YONE

No matter where you go, Yone brings you on fantastic dates. It's never popular tourist-trap type outings, either. If you ask how the hell he even found out about your date locations, he smiles coyly and says he can't reveal his sources. Regardless, expect lots of breathtaking, original dates—hidden trails that spill into breathtaking clumps of wildflowers, a hole-in-the-wall burger joint with the best fries you've had in tour entire life, tiny sculpture parks with some truly absurd statues (he absolutely refuses to delete the unflattering pic of you squatting next to a caked-up stone Sasquatch).

He isn't on his phone often, so don't be surprised if Yone doesn't text you back quickly or is overly-formal with his messages. Wild horses couldn't drag a silly emoji or a meme out of him. If you're lucky, you'll get a red heart, but that's about it. He tries not to make you feel neglected just because he's a dry texter, though. Especially when he's on tour, he calls you to check in whenever he's got a spare moment.

Yone's a chronic meal-skipper so he really appreciates if you share your food with him. Be warned, though, if you force him to step away from work and sit down for dinner you're either getting five minutes and a cup of instant ramen, or he's cooking you a three course meal complete with different appetizer, entree, and dessert wines. There's no in-between.

While Yone's not a fan of PDA, he holds your hand through every big event you're forced to attend. He doesn't appreciate the attention and flashing lights, but your warm, reassuring grip keeps him calm and relatively content.

Matching outfits are a little bit too much, but Yone is all for wearing clothing that compliments yours. Think similar textures, colors, and cuts. If you're wearing athleisure, he'll throw on a pair of stylish sweatpants. You're rocking the all black fit, so is he (with a pop of color in his earrings, probably—if he's completely monochrome, Kayn accuses him of "stealing his look"). Though he thinks it's a little cringy to be exact matches, he's definitely down to coordinate.

Whenever Yone makes himself a coffee, he whips up a glass of your favorite beverage as well. Nothing is too complicated—if you want a latte, he can make any flavor, and he'll pour the foam into a heart shape on top. Boba? No problem, he's got tapioca pearls in your favorite flavor and large straws on hand, to boot. A mimosa? Okay, he might raise his eyebrow at that one and point out that it's like eleven A.M.—nevertheless, if it's a mimosa you want, then it's a mimosa you'll get. Part of this is because he loves you, of course, but also? He hates sharing his coffee and figures that you won't ask for a sip if you've got your own drink.

Yone absolutely melts when you take care of him. He's used to looking after everyone else's wants and needs, so it's a pleasant surprise when someone extends that same care and attention to him. Cook him his favorite meal or take care of his laundry when he's been extra busy, and he looks at you like you're the eight wonder of the world. "You didn't have to do that for me," he cups your face gently, sweeping an appreciative kiss over your forehead. "But I'm glad that you did."

Chivalry is not dead and Yone's the man giving it CPR. Count on him to be the perfect gentleman. He opens every door for you, takes your coat whenever you drop by his studio, and no, under no circumstances will he let you pull out your own chair.

Yone's pet-names are sweet and classic. Most often, he calls you 'my darling', but he'll occasionally pepper in a 'dearest' or 'lover' for variety.

One of Yone's favorite ways to spend a free evening with you is sneaking into underground music shows. The two of you will turn up to somebody's house where the living room has been cleared to throw together a makeshift stage, or an abandoned warehouse with people clustering together and swaying to synthetic beats blasting through mid-grade speakers. More often than not, the musicians aren't that good (but that's par for the course with these kind of shows). The atmosphere can't be beat, though. And, when you do stumble upon somebody's garage band that actually goes hard, it's always an exciting surprise. Yone always keeps cash on him in case somebody's selling merch. He snags two stickers, one for you to keep and one to paste on his guitar case. What better way to commemorate shitty bands and crowded house shows than with matching stickers?

If you tag along with him on tour or business trips, Yone's first mission is to scout out a good coffee shop. Of course he takes you along, and buys you whatever little treats catch your eye. Sweets, sandwiches, snacks—anything he notices you ogling behind the glass, he orders for you.

Even with his massively packed schedule Yone NEVER, EVER forgets an important date. Expect gifts on birthdays and anniversaries, and extra love and support on dates that might be difficult for you.

Since Sett's a master crocheter, Yone pays him a frankly absurd amount to make you a plushie that looks like his fox mask. Yone knows that it can't be easy for you, with him away touring or on business so much of the time. The stuffed snuggle-buddy, he hopes, can ease your loneliness when he's away. Before he sets off on a long trip he makes sure to spritz your stuffie with his cologne, so that you can squish it in your sleep and dream that he's right there with you.

Yone's not a huge cuddler. Too much physical attention can make him feel smothered. The exception is when you sit on his lap. He loves when you settle onto him while he's working. As long as you're quiet and still (he doesn't want you to disturb his flow, after all), he basks in your comfortable warmth and the adorable way you tuck yourself into his chest.

[star-trek-fandom-confessions]

#966

I grew up watching a lot of the older series, VOY and DS9 especially. DS9 will always be my favorite...but SNW is up there right with it, honestly. I feel like other DS9/classic series fans I know always try to persuade me to change my mind/start disliking SNW when I say this, but idc, I just have such a good time watching it. I understand a lot of the criticisms, but also think the majority of them apply to some of the other shows, too (including pre-DISC ones) and it's a little frustrating feeling like people are telling me it deserves harsher judgement for having the same flaws I see in a lot of Trek? The only thing I can think of rn that I see people criticize it for that isn't really shared as much by the classic shows is people saying its nostalgia bait-y, and even then, tbh, I don't think that's entirely accurate. Of course its focusing a lot on older material, but to me its just doing like, things that are pretty typical of prequels? And I don't totally understand what else people would expect from a prequel? If you just don't like prequels in general that I get, I know people who find them just tedious as a genre and that's totally fair, but then I would say that feels like a matter of personal preference and not an issue with the show itself, and at that point just don't watch it. And w/ criticisms that its fucking up previous canon too much, it's another like "I think its fair if you don't like the choices being made but I don't get the attitude that this is a specific problem of SNW, basically every Trek show has done this to some degree". I guess generally, I think there are many things to criticize but I feel like people judge it in pretty lopsided ways and give their personal favorite shows passes for doing things that are pretty similar, and idk really I just wanna be able to share my enthusiasm for the show without getting yelled at by other fans. I love the classic series too, so much, but I often don't feel welcome in spaces w/ other classic series fans because there's so much negativity about the new shows. People also always assume I must've just started watching or that I haven't seen any of the older stuff yet when I say that its one of my top shows, when that's not at all true. ST has meant so much to me for basically my entire life and its really frustrating.

[barblaz-arts]

OMG ITS SO COOL THAT ONE OF PUGSLEY’S KIDS IS A MANANANGGAL !! and a boy ??? mananaggal ?? (unless im completely misunderstanding that)

anyways as a filipino its just so cool to see stuff with my culture in it (those posts abt the wenclair fam going to jollibee made me so happy!!!)

btw, what made u decide to create those characters as pugsley’s kids?

Something that I'll give the show props for is subverting what would usually be represented genderwise for monsters. Gorgons are usually women, but they had a boy be one(the only thing I like about him--). And there isn't a lot of female werewolves out there in media. And I'm not talking about stories that are about werewolves. Cuz yknow. Duh of course there'd be female werewolves. But I'm talking about stories about monsters. If you have a show about different monsters or fantasy characters and there's a werewolf, they'd usually give you an angsty and/or wild dude as the main werewolf.

But Wednesday's(the show) main werewolf is a happy girly girl. The only other similar instance I can think of at the top of my head is Ruby from Once Upon A Time. That's probably why the twist in Ruby's episode was so shocking. You expect the dude to be the werewolf. Not the femme girl who dyes the tips of her hair and would probably cry if she ruins her manicure.

Anyways. Monsters that are always majorly represented by one gender is boooorrriiiiiing. Let's mix it up a little.

Sorry that got long.

So! About Pugsley's kids!

I'm not sure about the B&W series, but in the animated movies, Pugsley's a bit of a hopeless romantic. So growing up, I like to think he got around. The problem is he also has terrible luck with women, so none of them lasted, not because he's fickle -- he would fall in love deeply every single time -- but because he just has dog shit luck. He is Fester's nephew after all. So all three kids are Pugsley's from different baby mommas. I'll talk more about em later.

As for what made me choose em

Dante - I've previously mentioned that I headcanon Pugsley as a pyrokinetic because of his love for explosives. I think it'd be neat if he had a girlfriend who came from literal hell and had a baby demon with her

Jasper - some time back when the fandom was still super active, people making their nevermore sona was a trend on twitter. I actually wanted to join and have mine be a manananggal, but I couldn't because I was both busy and was never really a fan of drawing myself(not cuz of like self esteem issues. im pretty darn cute actually! i just prefer to draw other people). but i still wanted to draw a manananggal in Nevermore, and I figured just having it be an OC for Pugsley's child is the perfect opportunity

Briar - those faceless students are sooo damn cool. I love them a lot. I wanted more from them in the show. So I'm just making the content I craved for. Also a faceless little girl whose aunt is Wednesday, pokerface queen, and looks up to her for it? Too funny and cute of a thought to me.

[mephinomaly]

[TL] PYSCHOBREAK/Chapter 3

[ This post uses Ois~su ♪ ]

Rei: Umu. I did some research regarding it, and I found that no one in RhythmLink requested that we take part in the experiment.

Koga: Huh? W-whaddya mean!?

Rei: I asked and it seems that it was a machine we spoke with. No real person knows about the experiment— that is the story they are sticking with.

It is unusual for myself to put on a serious face, but this time I feigned total ignorance…

It was rather bold of me, to tell a lie.

Kaoru: Yup. The higher ups thought we were behaving recklessly and were all up in arms about it.

Adonis: Umu. We were flooded with messages asking what HELLSING was.

Koga: I-I’m startin’ to feel kinda scared…

Guess I’m speakin’ with hindsight but we was probably too hasty ‘bout gettin’ involved with a questionable experiment.

Rei: So it seems… We realised we were losing popularity and tried to regain as much control as we could as quickly as we could.

And it all snowballed from there. In reality, I am as much of a fool as I thought I was— I must reflect on this.

Kaoru: You can reflect later, but first we need to focus on the problem at hand.

Rei 2: Eh? Where’s the problem?

Ain’t this turnin’ into a good thing for you guys?

Kaoru: Okay? Fake Rei-kun, can you shut it? We’re having an important conversation right now, alright?

Rei 2: Haha, someone’s in a bad mood~! If your lack of sleep is gettin’ to ya, why dontcha sleep with me, Kaoru-cha~n ♪

Kaoru: Wa, nononono….You’re just being creepy and gross now. Adonis-kun, you deal with him.

Adonis: I’d rather not either. Please don’t pass him to me.

…Despite his appearance, the fake Sakuma-senpai is nothing like him.

As things are now, fake me probably has a different personality too.

Adonis 2: ...

Rei 2: Our recall ain’t perfect yet, ‘n we still got a long way t’go. But hey, we’re still collectin’ data from you as we speak—

Sooner or later​, we’re gonna be so similar to you that even your parents won’t be able t’tell the difference.

Adonis: Is that your purpose?

Rei 2: You oughta be usin’ keigo, kohai. Even though we’re brand new, you still gotta pay respect to us.

Rei: I actually feel rather lonely when someone speaks to me in keigo. It's distant.

Rei 2: You’ve gotten soft, real me.

Well whatever. Becomin’ ‘real’ is instinct, but not our purpose.

We don’t have a sense of purpose.

Like I said earlier, we’re machines, wooden dolls, puppets. We ain’t got a heart, jus’ programmin’.

To feel, to think, to desire—

And dreamin’ too, is an annoyin’ flaw unique to you humans.

Rei: I believe that is what makes humans so fantastic.

We should move on. Questioning these fakes is not worth our time. Let us leave these machines behind and begin exploring the inside of the facilities.

Though it seems they have already disposed of any evidence, perhaps we can locate some documents here and there. Then we can discover why this has taken place.

And before you ask, I have already reported what we know so far to ES and the RhythmLink higher ups, and have been given permission to search the facilities.

Adonis: As always, Sakuma-senpai is fast at covering all his bases.

Rei: That’s one of my strong points. Of course, we are far from experts, and I don’t expect to find much–

But what else can we do in this moment?

Rei 2: Whilst you’re doin’ that, we’ll carry on with idol activities in your place.

Koga: Haa? Get over yourselves, you ain’t real.

The fans are confused ‘cos of you. They don’t wanna see fakes that only look like us from the outside, you bastards.

Rei 2: Confused? But from what I saw, there were a lot of really happy fans?

It’s pretty funny once you realise but–

When fans saw what HELLSING was up to, they was so happy, cryin’ too, goin’ “The real UNDEAD are back!”

Can you guys even afford a detour by checkin’ out the facility?

Whilst you’re worryin’ ‘bout things that don’t matter, we’re replacin’ you ♪

Koga: ...

[ ☆ ]

Chapter 2

Chapter 4

[yurayura-kurage]

A3! Troupe Event: MY WORST WEDDING | Event Story Translation (5/11)

Neither Japanese nor English is my first language so please forgive me if I made mistake. However, feel free to point me out, I’d love to hear your feedbacks on the translation ˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶

Translation under the cut

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Azami: Hmm–, well this isn’t bad either but… I’d like to give a more dignified impression of a former soldier.

Juza: Should I gain more muscles?

Azami: That’s okay, but I want to do something about the hair makeup plan too.

Juza: Omi-san will have his side hair shaved right.

Azami: Yes. Juza-san’s Grayson has a scar on his eyebrow, do you want to have an updo hairstyle with your bangs slicked back like Omi-san?

Juza: Sounds good. It also suits Grayson’s image.

Azami: Then, we’ll go with this hairstyle… 

Juza: What are you planning to do with your own hair makeup? Are you gonna dye your hair blonde?

Azami: I’ll never have my hair matched with Sakyo’s.

Juza: …That’s right, speaking of Sakyo-san, I heard his sister came to our dorm.

Azami: Your brother also asked me the same thing.

Juza: Kumon was surprised about how rare it was for Sakyo-san’s sister to come to the dorm. 

Azami: So that’s it. It seems that she came to consult about Sakyo’s mother.

Juza: Sakyo-san’s mother you say–– Did something happen to her?

Azami: No, it’s not something bad–. Sakyo’s sister wants to have a wedding photoshoot for her parents on their upcoming wedding anniversary.

And she wants her mother to wear a wedding dress, but her mother didn’t want to. That’s why she came to ask Sakyo to help persuade her, but Sakyo refused.

Juza: I see…

Azami: By the way, Sakyo’s mother is a fan of yours right?

Juza: Aah, she’s been taking care of me a lot. 

She gives me presents during the run of Autumn Troupe’s performances, so I always contact her to say thanks every time she does that.

Azami: You even know her contact info.

Juza: Sometimes before the performance starts, she sends me a support message and asks how Sakyo-san’s been doing recently.

Since it’s that person, Sakyo-san doesn’t contact her by himself too frequently. And it seems that the old lady also doesn’t often contact him directly. They’re just like mother like son.

Azami: I see.

Juza: While caring about each other, they don't seem to be some busybodies that can interfere so much with each other’s lives. 

About the wedding anniversary celebration too, it must be difficult for Sakyo-san since it’s not something he’s good at.

Azami: …

Juza: It’s just, I don’t know a first thing ‘bout wedding but it seems to be a memorable event.

My mother often talks a lot about wedding, too. We also have photos decorated in our house.

Azami: ...I also heard from my mom before she passed away, that she wanted to wear a wedding dress. In my parents’ wedding ceremony, she wore an all-white kimono to match with my father.

If possible, I think she wanted to wear one before she breathed her last breath. Sakyo’s mother and mine are somehow similar.

Juza: I see…

Azami: Sakyo’s mother said that she didn’t want to wear a dress because she wouldn’t look good in it now, but I don’t really think so. 

When I talked to Yuki-san about this, he said age didn’t matter. I think makeup can solve that problem.

Well, nothing, neither Sakyo nor his sister asked me to be all fussed over and act like this tho… Maybe even Sakyo’s mother doesn’t have that much fondness for a dress to begin with…

Juza: …Shall we go and meet her.

Azami: Eh?

Juza: I want to meet her in person and show my gratitude too. Then why don’t you ask her what she really means?

There might be some true feelings she can’t tell her son and daughter, I guess.

Azami: Well… It’s true that such things can also happen. That reminds me, there is something I want to say thanks to her, too.

Juza: If so, I’ll contact her then.

*At the living room*

Omi: I’m home.

Sakyo: Welcome home. You’re late today.

Omi: Sorry, my work took longer than expected– I’m in charge of dinner for tonight, so please wait a bit.

Sakyo: Then I’ll lend you a hand.

Omi: Thank you!

*Shifts to kitchen*

Sakyo: Did you have another shooting work today?

Omi: Yes. It was a pre-wedding photoshoot taken in the park.

I was so excited to take a miraculous photo that I ran to the local shop on the street to buy white sheets in replace of the reflector boards… 

I was dripping in sweat.

Sakyo: That was tough, wasn't that.

Omi: But it’s great to keep an once in a lifetime moment like that. I think it’d be nice to take my job seriously for that moment.

Sakyo: …You, did you hear something from the Director or Bon? 

Omi: Eh? What do you mean by that…

Sakyo: No, nothing.

(Even if it’s a once in a lifetime commemoration, it’d be meaningless if she didn’t want to…)

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Previous || Next

[maximumcheese]

Playing Cards - They Stand Shoulder to Shoulder 2

Location: ES

Hiiro: I told you that…I had a talk with Tenshouin-senpai before our conversation on the phone in the rose garden, right?

Mayoi: Yes. On the car ride home…You had told us that you were in the office reading fan letters.

Hiiro: It was a confusing, unclear series of questions and answers. However, from that moment on, I really began to care.

How will I meet my fans’ expectations? How should I grant Tenshouin-senpai’s wishes? What is an idol, even?

I was told to think a lot about it, and I’ve been really thinking about until today but—

In the end, I wasn’t able to answer that question for myself. On reflection, since I was a little kid, nothing has changed.

Tatsumi: Since you were a little kid?

Hiiro: Even at that time, I would always keep thinking about what Nii-san had asked me.

At that time, I had an answer in mind, more-or-less but—

Because I didn’t want to disappoint him by saying the wrong thing, so I thought that I just wanted to think about it more carefully.

Because, if you cannot give the right answer, it’s the same as being unable to fulfill your duty. It’s only meaningful to answer the question when you have the right answer, right?

Aira: Yeah? But it’s not a problem on a test, it’s just a question, right?

It’s not like a test at school where you get a score, so isn’t it harder to give an answer that fits perfectly?

It’d make me happy to hear your thoughts on just that, Hiro-kun.

I look at you, who can do anything, and there’s times where I think to myself “What the hell is guy?” and get super frustrated.

If even Hiro-kun is worrying and thinking like this, I can see that we’re really just the similar in that way.

Hiiro: …hm. I wish I could have a flexible way of thinking like you, Aira.

This time around though, I understood that both back then and now, I’m only brooding about, and that I have no confidence in the conclusion I reached. I felt like I didn’t grow.

Tatsumi: Don’t be so hard on yourself.

While you are bold enough to take action, on the other hand, you are also capable of holding your ground to make a careful judgment—

Hiiro-san, isn’t it possible that your virtue to thoughtfully react to questions has stayed the same since you were a child?

Mayoi: That’s right. And you have had a lot of growth, too.

Compared to when we first met, you’ve grown dramatically in singing, dancing, and movements. If you can take my word for it, I can guarantee that.

Being a person who doesn’t know much about idols, I’m amazed at the amount of growth you’ve accomplished over just one summer.

Even if you’re not similar to the others, we can work on the parts that you feel inexperienced at from this point on. Because we will help you as much as you need…♪

Aira: Senpais, you’re very parent-like when you say that.[1]

Hiiro: Was that just a haiku? No, if you don’t use the seasonal word, isn’t it considered a senryu haiku?[2]

Aira: No, I’m not reciting a poem…

Hiiro: Fufu. Thank you all for really talking with me a lot.

If only I could have answered with self-confidence. If only I could have been able to take action for Alkaloid, with my own judgment…

I feel very guilty for the crisis that I have caused to everyone, and I will reflect upon my actions.

To know that I have comrades who are close to me, it’s very reassuring. I feel more light-hearted now.

Mayoi: We are happy to see your smile, too, Hiiro-san…♪

Tatsumi & Aira: ……♪

Hiiro: Like Mayoi-senpai said, I was able to grow a lot.

I’ve come to learn the common sense of the city, and of course, there are countless things I’ve gained since becoming an idol…For me too, I’m sure I figured out a couple of things, too.

I’ll think more optimistically from here on again. For a clear answer to Tenshouin-senpai, and what I can do for Alkaloid.

Tatsumi: That’s right. There is nothing that you have to face by yourself, Hiiro-san.

The fact that a good result is required of Alkaloid, it’s a problem that affects the entire unit.

Sooner or later, regardless of who started it, we would have something to confront.

Aira: I think if I had started it, and if Tenshouin-senpai had come at me like that…To be honest, it’s a scary thought.

That’s why it’s great that Hiro-kun thinks through everything and speaks up about it properly ♪ You’re fine! Have some self-confidence!

Hiiro: It’s a bit of a strange feeling to get praised by you, Aira.

Aira: Hah~? I’m trying to cheer you up here!

Tatsumi: There, there. It’s embarrassing to get praised by Aira-san, isn’t it, Hiiro-san?

Aira: Eh~? Then choose that kind of language from the start.

Mayoi: ………

Hiiro: Why are you so quiet, Mayoi-senpai?

Mayoi: While I was listening to your pleasant conversation I…I began to think again.

I thought about what I’d like to try with Alkaloid, and what I’d like to act on.

Hiiro: Did anything come to mind?

Mayoi: No…

Nothing comes to mind, so I’ve started to wonder what we can do to get something we can call a good result, and also remove the obstacles in the way of our objectives.

To put it simply, to win some sort of award. But in reality, to become so popular that you’ll have a schedule where you’re counting down by the minute—

It’s the height of being an idol…It’s not like we ourselves covet the status of being popular figures.

Aira: We're the younger generation. Yeah, we’re not really hungry for power. 

I mean, have you ever thought of aiming to become one of ES' Big 3?! Honestly, I haven’t.

Tatsumi: The Big 3….Hm. If popularity ranking is visualized on the foundation of a clear, numerical value of L$, it may be an appropriate indicator of authority within ES.

Aira: But numbers aren’t everything, right?

Even for a term like “top idol”, everyone has different criteria for what makes someone at the top.

In my case, I call someone a top idol when I can point at them and call them great but…

How well they sell, their ability, popularity...Financial power? It's not like the top idols in every sphere are all the same

Mayoi: Yeah. Even after this much deliberate thinking, there’s no way that we can just come up with something so suddenly, after all…

Tatsumi: The realization seems to be setting in that viewing things from an ordinary perspective will not do—For both close goals, and far goals

Hiiro: ….That’s right but. It’s just one thing, but something came to mind for me.

Aira: Huh, when?

Hiiro: Less of being something that I want to do, it’s more of something that came to mind.

It’d be a job for everyone in Alkaloid, and not only can we act on it at once, but I have a feeling that we would rake in some good experience.

I was told it was a happening on a large scale…We should be able to get good results from it.

Aira: W-Wait a sec. Don’t leave me hanging, hurry up and tell us.

Hiiro: —Yes.

Let’s do a live. With Alkaloid, let’s participate in Underland.

In Japanese, what Aira says here is a 5-7-5 syllable pattern, which is a haiku

A senryu haiku is a type of haiku that is usually a dark comedy about human fallacies

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[paperconsumption]

okay so. so this so mild. but the first thing I thought of when i actually started playing this game in like late september/early october. is there is a very similar mindset amongst the many who I had met at the time that they just, didn't need to read the source material.

this can be found in many many fandoms. this isn't a enstars/dc specific thing. DC has a VERY huge barrier to entry and for enstars it way less so.

so you have to find fan translations of the older enstars stories and the way the timeline works it is kind of hard to parse through. where do you start when you weren't there for the whole thing. with enstars there is a (in my mind) objectively good starting point for the whole franchise. ! main story. not like kisaki or the later stuff. like the revolution to ensemble sections. then it's pretty vague. "follow your favs" is the fandom wiki's advice paraphrased and I remember that exact advice when I tried getting into DC. and the confusion when all these pre established characters came in like whhhaat. with Superman there's this image of him. you can get that pretty well if you follow some american pop culture stuff. but if you start to dive into DC with something like, Young Justice (1998) you meet robin and superboy and impulse. and they have all these people they know. and sure you can keep following young justice but you don't really understand what's going on over with say, Robin, who's apparently the 3rd robin? and the second robin. you don't. im off track.

I haven't gone through a decent amount of any of enstars so im incredibly sorry. but The EP:Link and like. the transition to !! it all reminds a bit about Crisis on infinite earths. and post crisis era. except like can i really say that as an exclhsivelt post crisis reader. hmm.

but yeah I'd say the japanese release of !! is the post crisis on infinite earths. and !! to english is having an effect of nu52 to the incoming fanbase (to an extent) but the content is the same... ish. so no where near asbad as nu52. more like rebirth or something. but these thigns are not equivalent.

enstars fans havetrouble finding translations, and after !''s main story it's a lot of "decide for yourself" what reading order if you wanna try and keep track of things happening. DC fans have a hard time finding copies of a decent amount of the older comics, you can't keep track of things no matter what you do. oh and enstars also has a bit of the same problem that dc has about dofferent writers to a tiny extent because Akira doesn't always write the stories, so they sometimes contradict(? don't remember seeing that butI know some say so.)

also enstars english ads are to enstars as Wayne family adventures is to any actual batman stuff.

have a good morning I am so brain dead 👋 thank you for listening ;w; one thousand high fives brigid, one thousand high fives

this is such a cool connection!! when you get really into media like comics and games you start to expect confusing timelines and such but it really isn’t a problem that many other mediums experience you know? they usually always start at chapter 1/episode 1 so attempting to get someone who’s used to that to adapt to enstars or dc would be pretty rough. i’ve already accepted the strangeness of enstars and kinda (?) understand the timeline now but if you asked me anything about how dc works i would not be able to answer. and just because of the nature of how dc comics and enstars stories are created and released, it’s really hard to fix the confusion without a sort of reset—which both of them did—and even then the problem doesn’t go away.

you can’t really think of a definite solution, and neither can anyone on the creative team so it seems, so everyone just gets used to it. it’d be cool to look at other franchises that have similar issues and compare the way each fandom adapts and finds solutions for the other problems you mentioned (finding translations, getting copies of older material that’s out of print, etc). i wonder if there’s consistent methods everyone follows along with, or everyone just does it in their own weird way🤔

[archiveikemen]

Abe no Yasuchika Main Story: Chapter 19

This is a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes with no guaranteed perfection; expect mistakes, grammatical errors, and some creative liberties. All original content and media used belongs to Cybird. Please support the game by buying their stories and playing their games. Reblogs appreciated.

Read this before interacting┊aikm’s Genjiden Glossary

Akihito: The supreme commander himself took the trouble to travel all the way to Kyōto, hm.

Yoshitsune: You’re a lot better at escaping than you look… Your Majesty.

Akihito had fled Kyōto and was hiding in a small country.

Yoshitsune: I was made aware that the Imperial Court and Shogunate were spying on each other.

Yoshitsune: So I went to Kyōto to see for myself…

Yoshitsune: I didn't know the Imperial Court had their eyes on me this whole time.

Akihito: Fortunately, we managed to track you down before the Shogunate did.

Akihito: I’ve always wanted to have a nice chat with you… the fallen hero, Minamoto no Yoshitsune.

Yoshitsune: …

Akihito: Ostracized by the world and estranged from your biological older brother, you are burning with hatred… and about to accomplish your long time goal after making a deal with an ayakashi.

Akihito: We’re quite similar, so I think we’ll get along pretty well.

Yoshitsune: Oh really?

Akihito: …

Yoshitsune’s terrifying clear eyes stared straight at Akihito.

Yoshitsune: Those are nothing but empty words.

Yoshitsune: All that dreadful fancy talk but there's no substance to it.

Akihito: — You being overly sharp is a problem. You’re jumping to your own conclusions despite the evidence presented to you.

Akihito: You’re giving yourself a hard time.

Yoshitsune: … Focus on the war talk.

Akihito responded to Yoshitsune’s stern words with a graceful nod.

Yoshitsune: As soon as the Rebel Army’s main troops arrive, we will render you our support.

Yoshitsune: On one condition. If that fox princess falls into your hands, you will surrender her to us.

Akihito: That won't be a problem.

Akihito: Our alliance will end when Yoritomo is defeated… correct?

Yoshitsune: That is correct. There are many shady things happening around you as well, Your Majesty.

Yoshitsune: An alliance between two parties who lack trust in each other can only be short-term.

Akihito: I like your straightforwardness.

Akihito let out a small chuckle, and Yoshitsune looked at him with mixed feelings.

Yoshitsune: However, our situation will be much different if the Shogunate defeats Yasuchika before our troops arrive.

Yoshitsune: Yasuchika may be highly skilled as an Onmyoji, but can he take down Kamakura’s warriors in a fight?

Akihito: — You’ve underestimated Yasuchika’s abilities.

Akihito: As long as it's something he agreed to do, he will complete the task no matter what. The only problem is… how he chooses to do it.

Yoshitsune: …

Yoshitsune: Even someone like you is capable of having that kind of facial expression.

Akihito: Pardon?

Yoshitsune: You have worry written all over your face.

Akihito, who rarely gets left speechless, was at a loss for words due to Yoshitsune’s brutally honest remark… he smiled bitterly.

…

Meanwhile, outside the house…

Ibuki: Yoshitsune and Akihito seem to be getting along well.

Kurama: Like hell Yoshitsune would get along with that dubious man. Don't give me that crap.

Ibuki: You’re like an overprotective parent.

Kurama: You talking about the bond between a parent and child gives me the chills.

Ibuki: That's a fine thing to say. Who do you think raised you with such tender love and care?

Ibuki's provocation caused Kurama’s red eyes to be seething with anger.

Kurama: Yoshitsune's decision to form an alliance with such a rotten group of people is so stupid.

Ibuki: Considering that Yoshitsune made a deal with you, he’s pretty crazy himself.

Kurama: — What is your plan, Ibuki?

Ibuki: Plan? I don't know what you're talking about.

Kurama: You enjoy torturing and corrupting human beings.

Kurama: But what do Yasuchika and Sutoku mean to you?

Kurama: Why are you working with them?

Ibuki: Oh? I’m surprised you're so interested in my business.

Kurama: I think your old age has caused you to become senile. It’s about time you die.

Ibuki let out a stifled laugh.

Ibuki: I’ll answer your questions.

Ibuki: Akihito and Yasuchika are my best toys.

Ibuki: So I spend more time playing with them as compared to my other disposable ones. Nothing more.

Kurama: — I don't know about that.

Kurama: I’m not familiar with Sutoku, but I do know a fair bit about Yasuchika.

Kurama: That man is a human being, but he makes frequent trips to the underworld and does as he pleases.

Kurama: He loves to screw around but his magic is the real deal. I don't see why you’re so entertained by him.

Ibuki: Kurama, you don't understand emotions.

Ibuki: Maybe you could learn a thing or two from that nine-tailed fox.

Kurama: What the hell?

Kurama: Also, Yasuchika is rather difficult to understand.

Ibuki: The most important part of being a human being is broken in him… but he is still a human being.

Kurama: …?

Ibuki: I’ll tell you what. Being strong isn't enough for humans to free themselves from their pain.

Ibuki: Or rather… the more talented they are, the more they suffer.

Ibuki’s ocean blue eyes narrowed.

Ibuki: Yasuchika is a man more talented than the average human, and he’s drowning in his own misery. That's what makes him the best.

...

The next day—

(The war is drawing near…)

We had made our way to Kyōto and set up our base camp there.

Yoritomo-sama summoned Tamamo, Morinaga-san, and myself for a final military council meeting.

Yoritomo: As I mentioned last night, Sutoku has joined forces with Yoshitsune and Kurama.

Morinaga: It will be ideal if we achieve victory before that can happen.

Tamamo: However, it will take some time for Kagetoki and Shigehira’s troops to arrive, right?

Tamamo: If our main goal is to buy time even if we can't win, Yasuchika is a tough opponent.

Yuno: Really…?

Tamamo: He has too many tricks up his sleeve and he’s even willing to sacrifice himself for his goals.

Yuno: He has always been like this…

Tamamo: He’s usually some goofy guy. But when he fights, you can tell how desperate he is by the look on his face.

Tamamo: I know there’s something dark he’s buried deep inside him… but I can't get to it.

(... Even Tamamo can’t understand Yasuchika-san.)

Yoritomo: Whatever it is, our plan remains the same. We will fight to defeat Yasuchika while we still have an advantage in terms of numbers.

We received news that Yasuchika-san had set up an encampment in the mountains and plains of Kyōto with the private troops gathered by the court nobles under his control.

(If we were to only judge based on fighting strength, his small army won't be able to win against the well-trained warriors of Kamakura.)

(What is Yasuchika-san planning?)

Getting a bad feeling about the situation, I touched the dagger hanging at my waist.

After talking to everyone about it last night, I decided to keep the cursed dagger Doman gave me.

(Since there’s no predicting what Yasuchika-san will do, I’m keeping this for self-defense…)

I asked Tamamo about the dagger, and he confirmed that it’s harmless if used by someone else other than me.

Yoritomo: Yuno, you will remain at camp until our reinforcements arrive.

Yuno: … Okay.

Yoritomo: Morinaga, you will lead a detached force and attack from the rear.

Morinaga: Yes, My Lord.

Yoritomo: Tamamo, you will come with me. I need you to deal with Yasuchika.

Yoritomo: I’ve already told our soldiers that you’re a sorcerer from Song, so you can fight however you want.

Tamamo: I’m so thankful that I’m crying tears of joy.

Yuno: Everyone please be careful…

The three of them responded with smiles when I gave them my best wishes, hiding my fear.

(I pray that everyone returns safely.)

(— Yasuchika-san too.)

The wish I made as I looked down at the purple bracelet around my wrist felt so contradictory and selfish. That was why I kept it to myself.

…

Meanwhile, on Yasuchika’s side…

Yasuchika: Thank you for gathering your troops, everyone.

About a dozen court nobles were gathered at the mountain temple Yasuchika was hiding in.

Yasuchika: Unfortunately, some of our soldiers were captured by the Shogunate yesterday…

Yasuchika: But thanks to everyone here who helped to form a private army despite having no official connections with one another, we at least have the bare minimum of forces. ...Although, our weakness is that our soldiers are no more than a disorderly bunch.

Sanemitsu: I- I’m not saying that I doubt your capabilities, but… can we really win?

Court Noble 1: Right. What if the worst happens, and we get found out for our involvement—

Sanemitsu — the man who joined the ranks after having his weaknesses exploited by Yasuchika during the incident with the living spirit, spoke up and the other court nobles around him started voicing their concerns as well.

Yasuchika: Our job is to buy time so that our victory awaits us at the end of the battle.

Yasuchika: All of you owe me a huge debt.

Yasuchika: Thanks for paying it back.

The court nobles’ eyes shook in fear and they immediately went silent at the sight of Yasuchika lifting a corner of his mouth.

Yasuchika: Ah, that's right. Many of you have yet to repay me.

Sanemitsu: What is it that you want back?

Yasuchika: The evil spirits.

When Yasuchika chanted, the sakaki planted at all four corners of the room started swaying.

And then…

Court Noble 2: Arghhh.

Court Noble 3: W-What’s… ugh.

Several court nobles grabbed their chests in agony.

Yasuchika: — Come on out.

Sanemitsu: Eeek.

The rest of the court nobles, Sanemitsu included, screamed at the horrifying scene happening before their eyes.

Large black things were crawling out of the mouths of the court nobles struggling on the ground.

Yasuchika: Thank you for your service! Not!

Yasuchika casually tossed a talisman into the air and the black figures vanished one by one.

Those court nobles were left unconscious.

Sanemitsu: W-What just happened…

Yasuchika: Recently, I took on a request to develop a technique to extract the powers of low level ayakashi.

Yasuchika: The requester deliberately allowed himself to be possessed by an ayakashi, so that he could easily defeat his political opponents.

Yasuchika: When that happens, the ayakashi is binded to his soul and he can freely spread the curse to anyone he wants to.

Sanemitsu: Such a thing exists!?

Yasuchika: At a price, of course.

Yasuchika: If you get too greedy, the ayakashi will gnaw at your heart and it will stop functioning for a very long time.

Yasuchika: But thanks to the people who didn't mind taking that risk… we’re saved.

Everyone in the room simply stared at Yasuchika. They seemed to have been hypnotized.

Yasuchika: Those little things (the ayakashi) grew so big because they were eating well with all that greed and evil they absorbed from those people.

Yasuchika: And I’m going to make full use of them.

— There was no one to respond to his words.

…

(I wonder what’s happening on the frontlines right now.)

In the afternoon, I was nursing the injured soldiers with the logistics team and sighed.

Injured Soldier: Thank you so much, Yuno… I’m feeling a lot better now.

Yuno: Don’t mention it. I’m glad I was of some help.

Yuno: Um, what is the war situation now?

Injured Soldier: Before I was sent here, the Shogunate was holding on strong and managed to push through. Yoritomo-sama is a flawless commander.

Yuno: That's good to hear.

Then I heard the sound of horses approaching…

Yuno: Who is it…?

Morinaga: Yuno!

Yuno: Morinaga-san!

(He doesn't seem to be hurt anywhere. Thank goodness.)

I ran towards Morinaga-san who dismounted from his horse.

Yuno: Is something the matter?

Morinaga: There’s a problem on the frontlines, our formation was broken and our soldiers are all over the place.

Morinaga: This place is no longer safe, so I’ll need you to leave with the injured men.

Yuno: … Okay.

Along with the other soldiers, I rushed to pack my belongings.

Yuno: What kind of problem arose at the frontlines?

Morinaga: It’s ayakashi. Tamamo is dealing with them now.

Yuno: Is everyone alright?

Morinaga: It’s expected that the soldiers are frightened, but they’re staying strong for Tamamo and Yoritomo-sama who are keeping their cool.

Yuno: I see…

(Just in case, I’ll wear a hood to hide the change in my hair and eye color.)

(Although I doubt it's a very good idea to use my fox powers in front of ordinary soldiers…)

Up till now, the soldiers are unaware of my powers, except for their leader.

(I hope nothing big happens.)

(It's rather disappointing that Morinaga-san has to return to his troops so soon.)

A few moments later — the rear support was on its way to the battlefield.

Morinaga-san was worrying about me the whole time, but I assured him that I would be fine on my own.

Soldier 1: Hey, something’s not right.

Soldier 2: I think so too. It feels like we’ve been walking through the same spot for a while now.

(They're right. I think I saw that exact same tree stump just now…)

(And this cold air rising from the ground beneath my feet feels way too familiar.)

A shiver ran down my spine.

Soldier 3: AAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!

Soldier 4: There’s a monster! HELP!

(...!)

I looked to the front where all the screams were coming from and…

A ghastly black mass was falling upon several soldiers.

(Ayakashi!?)

Soldier 3: Uwa…

White foam leaked out of the soldier’s mouth and his eyes became empty.

Yuno: Pardon me! Sorry!

Soldier 5: Hey, it's dangerous—

I pulled away from the soldier holding me back and stretched my palm out at the black mass.

(Power of the nine-tailed fox — remove its cursed powers!)

Soldier 1: She has powers!?

Soldier 2: Yuno…?

Yuno: … We’ll save the explanations for later.

While the golden mist swirled around, the ayakashi continued searching for their next prey.

Yuno: Everyone, you must escape!

Yuno: If you cut them down with your swords, there should be time for you to—

Yasuchika: Not a chance.

Yuno: Ah…

(That voice.)

The man I wanted to see… no, the man I didn't want to see slowly walked up to us.

Yasuchika: Those little things have had their fill of their favorite food, so they’ve become stronger than ever.

Yasuchika: It’s not as easy to escape them as you think it is. Even if you slice them up with your swords, they’ll just regenerate themselves.

Yuno: Y-Yasuchika-san.

Yasuchika: Shall we have some fun, Yuno-san?

Soldier 1: … Kill him!

Soldier 2: That’s right! Those monsters will disappear if we kill that Onmyoji.

Yasuchika: Spot on. But can you really do that?

A few black shadows appeared through the ground and lunged at the soldiers.

I desperately tried to absorb all their curse powers, and yet…

(... This is taking too long. There are other people who need help.)

Yuno: Stop it…!

I thought I saw Yasuchika-san frown for a split second when he heard me.

Yasuchika: … Ahaha, what's with that look?

Yasuchika: I’m not going to show any mercy just because it’s you. — We’re enemies.

[h34vybottom]

Apologies to anyone seeing this post! I just need a fast way to document some thoughts before I forget them (it's for the article i promise)

If Tatsumi and Shirogane are supposed to be commentaries on gendered expectations and gender essentialism, as they are, then they've failed in their entirety.

Tatsumi's narrative is pretty egregious in every way possible. His potential bisexuality is always a joke to make fun of gay men in particular. His shyness around Shirogane is treated as a light romantic oddity and like they're similar in being foils, but like. Not really? Tatsumi's dungeon is all a homophobic stereotype (literally all of it. Including the music). Tatsumi is never outright stated as gay or bisexual and yet is constantly mocked and belittled for the suggestion of light deviation from heterosexuality and machismo norms (Given how Japanese conservatism has been addicted to claiming that Japanese men are all weak and that's why society is collapsing, you can see some clear inspiration). Tatsumi's only "gay" moment is being assaulted by Kuma, which isn't gay and is pretty bad. It's framed as a joke of course, because Persona is very bad. A majority of the dialogue in the game relating Tatsumi in the main story is a joke about his sexuality and feminine interests, including when he gets aroused by Satonaka and Amagi and all of the times he's more interested in sewing. His side story is actually pretty good but it comes w/ the problem of being a Persona 4 side story (not important to the narrative; a repeat of the original tatsumi section in the main story).

Shirogane is pretty lesser, if only because she's barely in Persona 4 and once her dungeon is over, she takes over as the surrogate protagonist. That said, the way they use Shirogane is as a sex object and not as a person because of her gender. The "twist" that the boy detective is actually a girl, le gasp, doesn't work because a. Hardly a twist and B. They instantly treat her like they do every other femme party member, a soulless sex object who doesn't retain their lesson. Shirogane trades in a bit of the gender confusion for just plain shyness and social awkwardness, but it's only ever framed as if she's to be ogled at through a lense of fetishist intrigue. The only calm against this storm is that she's the only character w/ a braincell (until the awful Namatame murder attempt scene) and is basically just the actual protagonist now. Not a shock that the animated scenes start to prominently show her in charge. Cuz like yeah. Everyone is fucking stupid and incompetent to absurd degrees. Shirogane's side story is also pretty misogynistic towards her (In regards to her needing to be protected like I'm pretty sure a 15 year old w/ a fucking revolver and gun training in Japan is doing fine on their own there, bud but okay). Her dungeon's doors all have a Phoenix emblem and her final area is a surgery table w/ drills. Like. Man they just say the quiet part and think people are too stupid to see it (to be fair, a lot of persona fans are just stupid).

If there is any actual message towards social deviance in Persona 4, it's to tolerate the deviants at an arms length and nothing more. Like how else are you supposed to take any of this in a positive manner? Otherwise, the takeaway is literally that gay people deserve mockery and that any suggestion of changing one's gender or fitting outside of a gender role is worthy of ridicule? Like that's what the text fucking does and says 24/7

And who the fuck thought making Kuma a fucking sex pest was a good idea? Why did they copy paste that part for Morgana? I hate this fucking sub series so much wow

[teaveetamer]

Ok so this is my thoughts on FNAF. I feel like FNAF started a whole era of "mystery baiting" type storytelling in video games. Where the important thing about the mystery is not the answer, or even the lore itself. The value in it is getting fans to talk about your game, hunt through every facet of it, and try to "figure out" the mystery themselves.

Now to be clear, I'm sure FNAF wasn't the first game or series to do this. However, I think it was the first time a game, and an indie game at that, not only did it with some success, but took off into a cultural phenomenon. In 2012 or 2013 I couldn't even imagine being able to walk into any GameStop and straight up buy merch for some indie game I'd played/seen, and by 2015 there were people walking around my high school just casually rocking Fredbear hoodies and keychains. Nowadays we're even at the point where there's basically an entire Horror Genre that's basically "make some wacky, recognizable characters and hope your game gets picked up by a big YouTuber so you can get a merch deal out of it." And a lot of those games use the FNAF formula of mystery baiting in the hopes that they'll entice people to talk about them.

We all love a good unsolved mystery. And it's free advertising for your game! Naturally people will see others talking about the lore and the mystery and they'll say "hey, this sounds neat, lemme find out more".

But it's also bad from a story writing perspective because you eventually run into a few problems.

#1) You need to keep the mystery going so people will keep talking about it, which leads to a massive bloat of meaningless content as you produce things just to drop "nuggets" for people to follow. I think later FNAF games really fall into this trap, where they just keep adding and adding and adding to the lore and now everything either conflicts or there's no human alive not named MatPat who can keep track of all of it.

I think Hello Neighbor also did this (granted I never got super deep into this one). But I remember when that game came out in like pre-alpha and there was some mystery, and people lost their minds trying to figure it out, and so the developers kept adding and adding and adding with every build to try to keep the hype going and then... nothing. It got so dumb and convoluted that people just stopped paying attention and most people don't even know the game came out AND has like four sequels at this point.

2) You never intended to answer the mystery, and you never do, which pisses people off. Unlike real life unsolved mysteries, we know that video game narratives are constructed by someone who knows all of the answers and they could tell us if they wanted, they just won't.

3) You have to answer the mystery, and trust me the answer is never going to live up to the expectation. It's a similar sentiment to people who are disappointed when the conclusion to a beloved game series is fumbled. You spend all of this time with the game playing it, searching for evidence, theorizing, talking with your friends, watching youtube videos, hunting for leads... and then it's not what you expected. The amount of backlash you'll get for an unsatisfying resolution is usually proportional to the amount of time you spend stringing the mystery out.

I think the Fodlan games carry a lot of that same energy. Again, the devs touted it as a plus that they were creating a game where many things were going to be left ambigious/unresolved/up to interpretation/off screen because it would make the world feel "bigger" and "more alive". They specifically say they intentionally left things out in routes because they wanted players to play a route and then go talk to each other online to try and "figure out" the mysteries of the other routes.

And I think this is a failure of writing for three reasons.

#1) They needed to keep producing content to keep the mystery going, which led to a massive bloat of meaningless content created as an excuse to keep the mystery going so players would have breadcrumbs to follow.

2) There are some mysteries they apparently just never intended to answer. The Shez/Ashe support in Hopes is a prime example of this. The exact origins of Arval is one as well, and TWSITD's whole deal was left mostly unaddressed. Sothis is also a mystery left hanging, as she never regains her memories or anything. This is frustrating to players, because we know devs exist who have the answers and they are just choosing not to tell us, because reasons.

This is also a double edged sword for them, because unlike FNAF which can continue going in perpetuity, constantly giving players new breadcrumbs and bite sized pieces of lore to satisfy them juuust enough, FE is a series that is frequently one-and-done. Which means you have players arguing the same points cyclically, and with no new information ever added to clarify or give further clues. This leads to even more frustration and burnout with the IP.

3) The mysteries they did answer, the answers often did not live up to expectation. Either in the execution (plot dumps, mostly), or in the actual answer. Frequently because the answer is "idk, mole people did it" with no further elaboration, and the mole people themselves are an underdeveloped mystery so you've just answered a mystery with another mystery.

That's not to say you can't have mystery or intrigue, but I don't know. To me the Fodlan games feel like they were intentionally constructed to mystery bait a fandom into promoting their game for them

Now, do I think 3H was influenced directly by FNAF? It's... difficult to say. I know in the West we tend to look at Japanese developers as this isolated island, but of course they look at what's working in other parts of the world. The most recent Story of Seasons game was noticeably influenced by the success of Stardew Valley, for example. FNAF's influence also didn't just stop in the west. It was a big phenomenon in many parts of the world.

Of course FNAF and FE are completely different genres, unlike Stardew and SoS, but it's not completely unbelievable that someone looked at FNAF, or stories that copied FNAF's formula and found some success, and said "ooh, mysteries! People seem to like those. Add some of this into the next game!" When one game does something successfully then the industry tends to chase it.

[arvinsescape]

Getting mobbed.

Summary: You get mobbed by the paparazzi and Tom and Harry come to the rescue.

Warnings: Swearing.

W/C: 1.6K

You made your way through the hotel, preparing yourselves to go out into the onslaught. Tom was set to do an awards show, and this usually meant an influx in paparazzi, which he hated. He loves his job and he loves his fans but the paparazzi could just be too much at times. The problem with events like this was that every member of the papz wanted the first picture, which usually left them very close and diminishing any concept of personal space. Tom had gotten used to it in a way, it still made him uncomfortable, but he was used to dealing with it.

You on the other, although you’d been with Tom for a while now, weren’t. The first time you ever dealt with it was hard, but you kept your head down and kept moving forward but you were new then. You always thought it would get easier the more accustomed people came to you being with Tom, but it didn’t. The papz having more and more questions for you each time they saw you. Are you pregnant? Are you engaged? It didn’t bother you as much anymore, but something felt off about tonight.

You looked out towards the front of the hotel and gasped, there were far more papz than usual and it didn’t sit well with you. All you had to do was make it to the car, which wasn’t a long way but there was a lot of people between point A and point B.

“There’s so many.” You said as you grabbed Tom’s bicep.

“I know, this movie is a big one.” He’d expected this, this was one of the biggest movies he’d starred in so far and of course the attention surrounding the film had meant that more people had turned up for his picture. He took your hand that was holding his bicep and kissed the back of it, easing your nerves slightly. “I can always get Harry to take you out the back, if you’d be more comfortable?” He suggested.

“No, I don’t think that’d look too good. The rumours would be a nightmare.” You sighed as you grasped his hand firmly, interlocking your fingers.

“You know I won’t let anything happen to you. I’ve got you.” He promised as he squeezed your hand. “And Harry is right behind you.” He reassured. You swallowed down your nerves as you nodded. He was right, you’d be okay, right?

You made your way out of the front of the hotel, Tom’s security fending off the first lot of paparazzi from getting too close but there were too many. Tom’s grip on your hand tightened and it felt like he was cutting off circulation, but in reality, he was making sure you were still with him. Harry was close behind you both.

It was all going pretty well considering until you felt someone much taller than Harry behind you. You’d been split up and although you knew Harry would be okay it made you nervous. The man behind you was shouting your names, any question that came to mind and you did your best to ignore it and continue to move forward. That was until he got a little too close to you, your figure being much smaller than his and you lost your footing. Trying to regain your composure meant you weren’t holding Tom’s hand quite as tight anymore.

You felt his hand leave yours and you panicked, and another man had now gotten in between you, then a couple more. You managed to keep yourself upright and you were now being pushed forward quicker than you could walk, it felt surreal. It was like an outer body experience, you were just kind of going along with it, just praying you’d make it too the car.

All of a sudden, a hand grasped your arm and pulled you out of the way causing a panic to rise in your chest and you felt tears well in your eyes. Two hands grabbed your shoulders and turned you around. It was Harry. Your nerves instantly calmed.

“You okay?” He asked panicked as he took in your state, checking for injuries. He didn’t find any.

“I’m okay, just a little overwhelmed.” You said.

“Are you hurt?”

“No, honestly I’m fine Harry.” You reassured.

“Okay, we should keep moving forward, here take my hand.” He said as he held your hand. Tom’s security had caught up by this point, one of them standing beside you.

“Where’s Tom?” He asked as he frantically looked for him.

“I’m not sure. We got split up.”

“I’m sorry but I have to go and find him. As much as I know he’ll kill me, I’m paid to make sure he’s okay first.” He smiled sadly and you laughed at that.

“Go. It’s fine. I’ve got Harry.” You said as you watched his security make their way through the crowd.

Your hand was still in Harry’s as you slowly made your way forward. The car wasn’t even that far away from the hotel, but it felt like a lifetime before you’d get there.

“You’re handling this quite well.” Harry suddenly pointed out.

“Gotta get used to it right? He’s only get bigger.” You said as more people moved past you, barging against your shoulder a little too rough.

“Oi!” Harry kept shouting as more people did it. Although you knew it wouldn’t leave any lasting damage, it was beginning to get sore. “Fuckin’ hell.” He grumbled as he grabbed your hand tighter and tried to move a little quicker.

You suddenly collided with someone’s back, stopping in the process. You looked at Harry and furrowed your brows in confusion, they’d suddenly stopped trying to move forward. Harry pulled you against his chest as he hugged you, the crowd of people seeming to take all breathing space away. All of a sudden, the man in front of you was moved to the side by a familiar looking member of security and Tom appeared.

He rushed over when he saw you, having a similar reaction to Harry, checking you for any injury. You laughed as he cradled your face, checking it over for any injury.

“I’m fine Tom.” You said as he finally calmed down, looking satisfied that you were, indeed, okay.

“Okay, we’re gonna try this a different way.” He said. “Thanks by the way bro.” He said as he clapped Harry’s shoulder, who waved him off in response, smiling. “Right come on.” He said as he took your hand. He moved you in front of him and placed your back against his chest. He slowly moved the two of you forward and kept his strong arms firmly wrapped around you. Harry had now placed himself in front of you and helped move the paparazzi out of the way.

“I’m sorry baby, I swear as soon as I felt your hand leave mine I shit myself.” He said into your ear. You kissed his bicep as you continued to move forward.

“It’s okay Tommy. Its just a bit more hectic then we’re used to.”

“Yeah, now I really know how RDJ feels.” He laughed softly into your ear before placing a kiss there.

The move towards the car was much easier, given your new position it would be extremely hard for anyone to get between the two of you now. You made it to the car and Tom gently pressed you against it for a moment as his security made room behind him. He opened the car door for you and carefully manoeuvred you into it.  You slid to other side as Tom followed you into the vehicle, Harry shortly joining.

Harry sighed as he took the seat opposite you and Tom. “Bloody hell.” He groaned.

“Yeah that was intense.” You laughed but you felt much better in the security of the car. Tom had shuffled closer to you wrapping his arm around your shoulder.

“I thought something had happened to you when I couldn’t feel your hand anymore. Gave me a heart attack.” He said as he kissed the top of your hand, smoothing your hair out for you.

“Nah, I had Harry. You should charge for your services.” You said as you pulled a laugh from the younger Holland.

“Yeah. I reckon I’m gonna bill him. Do you reckon I’d be able to charge more for looking after important goods?” He joked and you laughed.

“I should dam well hope so.” You said as Tom laughed.

“Name your price mate. It’s yours. In all seriousness though, thank you Harry.” Tom said sincerely.

“Anytime. You know you might be late putting a ring on it but she’s like a sister to me already.” He continued to joke.

“Noted.” Tom laughed and he took your hand in his, kissing the back of it.

“I don’t know why you haven’t already. You’re a fuckin’ sap for her.” Harry joked as he earned a punch from his brother.

“Just love her a lot.”

“Code for sap.”

“Piss off.” Tom snorted and they both laughed. “I’ll put a ring on it eventually, I promise.” He concluded with a soft smile in your direction and bringing your hand up to kiss the promise ring he’d given you a while back, the smile to which you returned. Harry fake gagged but he couldn’t help the warm smile that made its way onto his face at how happy and in love his brother was.

[give-grian-rights]

How did the hermitcraft shipping conflict go compared to the dreamsmp shipping conflict. How were they similar and how were they different

I wasn’t actually present when Hermitshipping was a huge conflict! I only got into Hermitcraft this April, and the main conflict for shipping seemed to mostly have taken place around 2018-2019?

Looking back over what remains of it- I think Hermitshipping met a much easier conclusion than DreamSMP’s shipping ever will.

Every single Hermit is of age.

Almost every Hermit that people had a problem with being shipped, because they’re a parent, married, etc all vocally stated “hey this is cool, don’t bother other fans this isn’t upsetting me in the slightest” .

And, every Hermit has a CLEAR differentiation between reality and their character.  Most of them are inhuman species, give themselves different hair, and generally are just separated from their real-life selves.

That’s another thing- their all older than,, everyone on Dream SMP, really. MumboJumbo is the youngest Hermit, and even then he’s like?? 25 I think?? somewhere around there.  Doc’s in his forties, Grian’s almost thirty, etc and they’ve all been on YouTube and had an audience for a long ass time.  They’ve learned how to engage with their audience, and keep them civil (to the best of their ability). Most people on Hermitcraft are pioneers for Minecraft, even if they’re considered relatively small channels today.  They’ve had years to learn how to manage the spotlight.

Hermit fans learned that it doesn’t bother most of the CC and therefore it doens’t bother them, and even if they’re antiship or just not comfortable with it, they’re almost all, with a few outliers, civil and respectful. They ask not to tag things as ship, and that’s that.

It’s just a thing mostly accepted in Hermitblr now,   Some people are still uncomfortable with the concept of it, and that’s valid. A large portion won’t partake in it, and want content outside of it, and that’s!! valid, and to be expected because YEAH platonic concept is a must-have too.

Right now, I don’t think the Dream SMP fandom will ever be able to reach that point. Not only are a large portion of the members in that server under 20, but most of them are fairly recent creators who JUST got the spotlight- with a small exception.

Almost everyone in there have only been REMOTELY popular in the last two years, if that. Dream SMP is a place for content creators to grow and get their footing, and get exposure. It’s the place for them to learn, really. And with that a lot of young, inexperienced creators are also getting thrown into the spotlight.

With millions of fans, split across probably two dozen creators, of which have little to no experience with that much exposure- we’re left with fans without boundaries, misinterpretation, and far to many people than anyone creator can handle. 

There’s so many different platforms for fans- while Hermitcraft is primarily just on Tumblr, Dream’s fandom, in particular, are very cross-platform- and most of which? are.. here for the real people.

Hermitblr is here primarily for the characters- sure we love the fun vlogs, of Scar explaining his life as a disabled YouTuber w/Jellie, or Doc’s garden vlogs, but almost no one partakes in anything that could even seem similar to real people fiction.

We love them as people and respect them and look up to them- and we simp and overanalysis their characters and write almost exclusively about their Minecraft characters. humanoid cyborg creepers and demigods and vexes.

Sure, a lot of Dream SMP’s Tumblr fandom is almost exclusively interested in the characters, but a lot of Twitter folk, are invested in the Streamers.

We have a mix of people who just simp for real people, and people who over-analysis and cry for the characters. And so when you here “yeah i’m a shipper” in the Dream fandom- it can have two meanings. Characters, or RPF. 

I’m not here to debate if RPF is good or bad, but with some of the content to be found- the immediate fight-or-flight instinct when you think of shipping RPF content is understanding.

As long as there’s still a large audience of people who just care about pretty boys, shipping in the Dream SMP fandom is always gonna be a tough discussion, I feel like. 

[blu-joons]

DATING ATEEZ A⇴Z HEADCANON ⇴  Kim Hongjoong

A⇴ AFFECTION 

Whenever Hongjoong is around you, his priority is always to make sure that you’re protected in his affection. Even if no one else is around, he’ll still like to make sure that you always feel safe underneath his touch and in his presence.

B ⇴ BEFORE DATING 

Several of the other members had caught onto him staring across at you as you worked at the company, eventually he was pushed into introducing himself to you. When a figure stumbled into your path, anger boiled inside of you, but as soon as you saw how apologetic the guy was, all was quickly forgiven.

C ⇴ CONFESSION 

You knew on a date at the fair, as soon as you saw a stall with minion toys on it, Hongjoong would want to win. However, when he did, and made sure he won the biggest toy that they did, gifting the toy to you, you knew he was up to something. He wasn’t the best when it came to using words and love, so he just hoped that the toy would be enough to tell you how he felt about you, and thankfully for him, it was.

D ⇴ DATES 

With so much of his time spent working and at the studio, you’ll often set up dates at the studio to work around his busy schedule. You’ll try and squeeze as much time out of him as possible, and even though sometimes these dates can barely last an hour, you always make sure to treasure the fact that you have time to spend with Hongjoong, however long or short it is. Whilst he gives his music a break, the two of you will sit on the floor, usually with food between the two of you, and catch up on your days and weeks.

E ⇴ EXPERIENCE 

Before dating you, Hongjoong had no real expectation of what being a relationship would be like, however there was one thing that he was certain of, the fact he wanted to still be a good leader and set a good example to the other members about what being in a relationship entailed. The work and personal life balance was key for Hongjoong, especially with so much of his time spent working on music and composing, so once the two of you figured that out and understood each other, the biggest problem was already solved.

F ⇴ FIGHTING 

At times Hongjoong can be very serious, which you know comes from his role as a leader and his dedication to get things done. However, sometimes that strictness that he finds himself using at work, can translate at home, often crossing a few of the boundaries between you both. You often have to remind Hongjoong of who he’s speaking too, reminding him that he’s not at work and capable of bossing people about, and that you’ll get things done when you’re ready. As soon as he realises the way in which he’s spoken to you though, he’ll always make sure to apologise and make up for the things he said.

G ⇴ GETTING TO KNOW HIS FAMILY 

It was an accident the first time you met his family, dropping by at the studio, you didn’t expect to see his elder brother there. However, it ended up working in your favour, seeing that you were caring for Hongjoong and making sure that he ate was a big tick on his brother’s list, and his family’s as well.

H ⇴ HOME 

A lot of the time, Hongjoong will be at yours when he’s not busy with work. Whilst he loves being at the dorm, he loves the escape that your apartment brings too, to be able to enjoy some peace and quiet and be well looked after in your company is normally all that he wants, not too much for him to ask for at all.

I ⇴ “I LOVE YOU” 

He’d been working incredibly hard for a couple of weeks, so much so that you barely saw him at all. So, when you visited the studio late at night in the hope that you’d be able to check in on him, Hongjoong couldn’t hide how relieved he was to see you when you knocked on the door, hugging you tightly whilst uttering those special words.

J ⇴ JEALOUSY 

Whilst Hongjoong isn’t someone who can get jealous too often, if someone begins to make him feel on edge, his face will definitely give him away. His responses will get a lot shorter, and his reactions will be incredibly basic, making sure it’s subtly clear to the room that he’s not enjoying himself. Whilst everyone else can usually brush it off just as Hongjoong being Hongjoong, you know a bit more as to what’s going on, typically having to bring him to one side to remind him that there’s no need for him to worry.

K ⇴ KIDS 

Hongjoong hasn’t spent years as the dad of the group for no reason, confident he’d have enough experience even if the two of you became parents tomorrow. Whilst he doesn’t want to rush for the real thing, he loves to tease you and remind you that he’s already a dad of several members who rely on him for most things. Although as you tease him too, the members are nothing like how the real thing will be.

L ⇴ LAUGHTER 

When Hongjoong allows himself to relax and have a laugh, he very much becomes an unstoppable force. You love knowing when he’s comfortable, and when the dorkier side of him comes out, the side that doesn’t really know what he’s saying and will often do stupid things too. Hongjoong knows you love this side of him too, because you know work isn’t giving him any stress, and that you can laugh with him and know he’ll be able to laugh at your side too. Whilst for the most part he’s serious about his work, around you, Hongjoong feels a lot more confident to let those barriers down and relax a little too.

M ⇴ MISSING 

He’ll always try and be the strong leader that the others need when they’re on the road, because he knows that the others get homesick too. However, the other members are also aware of the close bond the two of you have and how much that Hongjoong relies on you. They can tell that he’s trying to smile through it all, but after a couple of weeks, they’ll reassure him that it’s alright for him to feel too, and that they’d think he was crazy if he wasn’t missing you. Secretly, they all miss you too, whilst their dad is on the road with them, not having their mum to care for them too is no fun for them either.

N ⇴ NICKNAMES 

Hongjoong loves to give you musical names, he’ll often come up behind you and whisper, ‘my little melody,’ or something similar into your ear, reminding you that alongside music, you’re one of his favourite things in the world.

O ⇴ OBSESSION 

He’s obsessed with your hands, even though he has small hands of his own, to feel how small your hands are in his hold always brings a smile to Hongjoong’s face.

P ⇴ PDA 

Whenever the two of you are out in public, Hongjoong’s priority is to always keep you protected and out of any harm. He knows what fans and the media can be like, and whilst you often try to reassure him that you can handle yourself, Hongjoong would never forgive himself if something happened whilst at his side.

Q ⇴ QUESTIONS 

He loves to get your opinion on his creations, even though most of the time you don’t really have a clue what all of the technical stuff means. Secretly as well, Hongjoong loves being able to show off to you just how talented he is.

R ⇴ RANDOM FACTS 

It was only when you visited Hongjoong’s room for the first time, did you realise just how minion obsessed he actually was. It became a bit of a habit for yours after that, that any time the two of you celebrated an occasion or a milestone, you’d always buy him at least one gift that was minion related in order to add to his collection, and make sure he knew just how sweet of an obsession you thought it was too.

S ⇴ SEX 

Above all else, Hongjoong always makes sure to care for you whenever the two of you are intimate with each other. Your needs are always put before his at the best of times, but especially so when the two of you are in the bedroom. Hongjoong never likes to rush, he loves to take his time and pay attention to all of the little details, as you’d expect from a man as talented and dedicated as Hongjoong was.

T ⇴ TEXTS 

You’ll often be disturbed at work by texts from Hongjoong to let you know he’s organised plans for you both that evening, whether it’s a date night, or catching up with friends, he loves to be as social as possible with you.

U ⇴ UNIVERSE 

Whilst every person went through hard times, especially as the leader too, knowing that he always had you there to support him through those hard times was an indescribable comfort for Hongjoong that he’d always be grateful for.

V ⇴ VACATION 

He always told you how keen he was to travel with his members, and not have to worry about work. So, when you found out they’d arranged a trip, you were more than pleased for them. But that wasn’t enough for Hongjoong, surprising you on the morning of the trip, with a suitcase packed, and no hints as to what would happen next.

W ⇴ WHINING 

As the father of the group, Hongjoong’s used to listening to the others moan, and so he’ll never annoy you with the habits that all of his members tend to do.

X ⇴ XXXXX 

Every kiss that comes from Hongjoong is always incredibly soft against your skin, and very sweet too. If he gets a reaction out of you when he kisses you, it’ll always make him turn incredibly shy and nervous. He loves to come up behind you and take you by surprise, or if he can tell you’re anxious, he’ll be there with a kiss against your blushed cheeks to remind you not to worry and that he’s there for you too.

Y ⇴ YOU 

You were his biggest support, always at his side whenever he needed to call on you.

Z ⇴ ZZZ 

It’s quite often that Hongjoong will end up having to sleep at the studio, and so you made sure to create a bag filled with things that he’d need to make sure he was as comfortable as possible when you weren’t able to be with him.

---

Masterlist

[morethanonepage]

🔥 uhhh DC Comics :D

Ok TO BE FAIR I haven't really read anything from DC except Hellblazer/some other John series so in general my unpopular DC comics opinion is, I wish they'd forget John exists 😂

I think theres been A FEW interesting developments w/r/t John canon -- more explicitly showing him as bi being one of the better ones, but even there, I haven't LOVED how it's been done. I mean between CtH and the LoT (which was mostly just cribbing from CtH), John's two (2) canonical boyfriends (I'm not counting Stanley Manor bc that was more of a long con/honey trap situation) are men of color that got sent to hell because of John's nonsense. And like yeah similar things happen in Hellblazer but I can't think of ANY of John's canonical girlfriends getting screwed over like that, esp on panel-- IIRC Judith kills herself after Newcastle & she shows up in flashback once or twice, but the rest mostly get out alive (if not emotionally unscathed, obvs, but even then -- the "John treats his partners like shit" thing isn't 100% WRONG but it's more complex; he TRIES really hard w Kit & then Danni, and seems to be a decentish & generally giving boyfriend to them both. Like pre-Newcastle John definitely cheats on Judith but for the majority of Hellblazer canon, John is either single & doing one night stands that everyone goes into w honest expectations, or in relationships that he seems to commit to while hes in them).

And overall, DC John's characterization has shifted from "damaged and complicated but generally well meaning, scrappy & tenacious, w appreciation for sex depicted in a mostly neutral way" to "sexy snarky wizard man whose sexual promiscuity is a demonstration of his ~damage", and I am -- not a fan lol. Nor am I a fan of him on teams-- like in general my appreciation for Hellblazer is that John rarely had any direction. He tended to just bumble into problems, or have someone bring them to him. I think that's just an approach to a narrative that doesn't WORK in modern comics (or television, or movies) but it's what I like, dammit!!!

Like DC has a bunch of ~magical and ~spooky shit characters who like. Actually give a fuck more consistently. Zatanna being the main one that comes to mind, and per some canons she already has a pre existing friendship w Bruce Wayne, so -- WHY do they love teaming John & Batman up?????? Bc John's popular right now lol but I WISH HE WASN'T, #GatekeepingJohnConstantine4lyf

Also if DC wants to reboot Hellblazer they should hire ME to write it so I can focus it on Gemma Masters & Geraldine Chandler & call it MASTERS OF HELL and idk John just shows up on the periphery occasionally to make things worse.

We as a society have evolved past the need for rebooted Hellblazer content focusing on Johnny C.