#i'm frustrated with the argument and i'm frustrated with the directions it went in/other people took it in

[joequiinn]

The Dos & Don'ts of Fake Dating | E.M. x reader | pt. 4

[all chapters here]

summary: You propose a crazy idea to the resident freak of Hawkins, Eddie Munson. But maybe he was even crazier for agreeing to it…

notes & tropes: fem reader, faking dating, opposites attract, bratty rich bitch reader, minor revenge plot, not-quite-enemies-to-lovers

a/n: Oooh lads, here we are again! I was going to save this chapter for tomorrow, but I'm having a bad day, so I decided to treat all of us with an update today! Not too much happens in this chapter, however, it still charmed me very much, and I'm the one who fucking wrote it lol. As always, enjoy and let me know what you think!

taglist: @costellation-hunter @daisyridleyss @damon-loves-pie @damp4eddie @delilaaahhh @kthomps914 @lotrefcp @marrowfrog00 @mewchiili @munsonssweets @no-bueno-writer @rach5ive @sav12321 @steeldaisies

wc: 4.0k

“What the hell?” Amelia hisses while practically slamming down her lunch tray. You looked up at her with feigned ignorance, your eyes cool as you took both her and Janet in. You’d once again attempted sitting at your new lunch table, the same dorky couple sharing it with you, amongst a few of their friends. Although the group briefly eyed you, they’d been ignoring you for the past few minutes. That is, until your friends showed up.

“What?” You asked before turning your attention back to your food.

“You know what.” Amelia insisted, staying on her feet with an irate look. You were shocked she even dared to come out here in no man’s land to talk to you for a second time. Janet, submissive as ever, stayed back, looking between you both with worried eyes, “Did you hit your head or something? Why are you suddenly so interested in Munson?”

Annoyance jaded your features. You settle your glaring eyes on Amelia, your voice just as accusatory as hers, “Why does it matter?”

She scoffed as if it was the most obvious thing in the word, “Because he’s a loser. What’s everyone gonna think if they keep seeing you two together? You already made a scene this morning, they’re already talking.”

You shrugged, far too nonchalantly for Amelia’s taste, as you spoke around a bite of food, which was actually your way of hiding the glee you felt knowing that people were already talking about you and Eddie, “Does it matter? Does any of this shit matter?”

“Of course it does.” Janet finally chimed in, her voice calm compared to Amelia, “You could get yourself in trouble hanging out with someone like him.”

You rolled your eyes before shooting her a condescending look, “When have I ever gotten in trouble for literally anything?”

“It’s bound to happen eventually.” Amelia countered, and you finally dropped your fork to look at them both, your frustration growing.

“If it bothers you so much,” You start, your tone cold and direct, as non-emotional and harsh as you could manage, “start hanging out with someone else. Start hanging around Duncan, for all I care. We have loads of other friends who I’m sure won’t do something as stupid as talking to a boy.”

Amelia rolled her eyes at the way you mocked them, familiar with the tone of voice you were using. She’s heard you use it at least half a dozen times before when you two had gotten into stupid arguments in the past.

“Look, whenever you’re done PMSing or whatever, you’ll see where we’re coming from.” With a finite look on her face, Amelia picked up her lunch tray again and headed off back to her familiar, comfortable lunch table. Janet gave you an apologetic look before scurrying off a moment later.

You should be upset. And, yes, a part of you was irritated by the conversation, and yet, a large smile spread across your face - you didn’t anticipate that you’d piss Amelia off so quickly and acutely. You two have fought a number of times before considering how easily your personalities could clash, but this felt like you actually accomplished something. Your plan was already working wonders, despite your continued doubts.

As you went back to your quiet lunch, you couldn’t help but watch your group of friends from afar, mostly in irritation, although you felt a mild pang of loss in your chest. They all looked so happy, so at ease with one another, and a part of you suddenly missed that feeling. But you knew you were just being nostalgic, because you wouldn’t feel any of those things if you sat with them - you wouldn’t feel happy or at ease, rather you’d feel annoyed and tense.

Yet you couldn’t help but that bit of sadness you felt at the sight of them.

Even Duncan, that asshole, looked cheery as he shared a laugh with the guys, clapping one of them on the shoulder. You couldn’t help but glower at the sight of him. Diverting your attention, your eyes began to scan the lunch room, wondering where exactly Eddie and his band of rejects sat. You’d never noticed before considering that it didn’t matter in the past, but it was probably a good idea to start keeping track of these types of things. 

You eventually found the gaggle of geeks, watching as they excitedly conversed. The mean-spirited part of you made a judgmental face, assuming they were talking about D&D or the arcade or something else equally as nerdy. After a few moments of taking in the group as a whole, you found yourself studying Eddie’s face, taking in his ever-changing expression; he didn’t seem to notice you watching him, which gave you a better chance at observing him.

Eddie was always theatrical, you realized, always throwing his arms around as he spoke or raising his voice for particular emphasis. You found it strange just how big his communication style was, especially considering how tightly wound you always were. Where he had his exaggerated movements and his dramatic tones, you had your tight motions and controlled voice. Just thinking about how different he was dared to give you a headache, and you caught yourself wondering what the hell you’d be in for once you two moved your fake relationship along.

Eventually, Eddie seemed to sense eyes on him, because his gaze found yours curiously. You raised an eyebrow, unsure if he was able to see the movement from halfway across the cafeteria; when he made a face in return, you figured he noticed. He, too, raised both brows as if in question, nudging his head ever so slightly - it appeared that he was asking you to join him, but you couldn't be sure if that’s what he meant. Nonetheless, you shook your head at him, deciding that you were enjoying your quiet lunch and that you weren’t quite ready to put up with his group of loser friends for even five minutes. Regardless of whether or not you wanted to, you knew you’d get to that point eventually. Eddie gave a shrug of his shoulders, as if silently saying “suit yourself;” and although he turned his gaze back to his friends, you two continued stealing glances for the remainder of your lunch break.

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Come Wednesday morning, Amelia wasn’t waiting for you at your locker. No one was except for Janet, who looked tense before she spotted you walking towards her. She tried to put on a brave face once you two met eyes.

You figured this meant Amelia wasn’t planning on talking to you anytime soon. Good. As for the rest of the group, it didn’t matter to you either way. Although, it was still surprising to see Janet here by herself - she must’ve been sent by Amelia.

As you approached, Janet gave you a sheepish wave. You couldn't help the familial smile you gave her - she was a much easier person to get along with than most others in your circle.

“How long before Amelia talks to me this time?” You jested with a mean quality to your voice.

Janet didn’t appear to be amused by it, though, as she responded, “She’ll hold out forever if she feels like it.”

You huffed out a laugh while opening your locker, “Good point. Maybe that’s not such a bad thing.”

You two were silent for a few long moments as Janet nibbled at her thumb nail and you moved belongings between your bag and your locker.

“What’s going on with you this week?” She finally asked, out of curiosity, rather than with judgment. Nonetheless, you shot her a look, to which she quickly waved her hands as if to calm down whatever bitchiness was about to stir up in you, “No no, I’m not trying to be mean. It’s just… you’ve been weird since school started.”

So, Janet noticed. You wondered if anyone else had. Maybe they’d all been ignoring it, but now that Eddie was in the mix they couldn’t keep that up anymore.

You shrugged as the pair of you began the trek through the halls to your respective classes, your answer noncommittal, “‘Weird,’ huh?”

Janet watched you as if she was waiting for you to elaborate, before sighing and asking, “Is there something going on? Like, something you need to talk about?”

You laughed without thinking, a mean and dismissive sound even to your own ears, “Yeah right.”

Hurt flashed across Janet’s face, her tone clearly different than it was a moment before, “Geez, sorry I asked.”

“Just stop worrying about it, alright?” You insisted with harshness, your eyes cold as you looked over at her.

With a resigned expression, Janet dropped her head and sighed, muttering as she walked away, “Yeah, whatever…”

It briefly struck you that maybe you didn’t have to be so bitchy all the time. But, then again, you didn’t really know how to be anything else.

Your day went on as usual from that point. You discussed a boring book in first period, you wasted time in second period, and once third period rolled around, a vague excitement struck you as you remembered that that was the one class you shared with Eddie. You should not have been excited at that thought, not in the slightest, and yet it added something interesting to your otherwise stupid and monotonous day.

When you entered the classroom, Eddie was already there, sitting at his usual desk in the back corner, looking bored despite class not even starting yet, drumming his pencil absently on his desk. As you approached and he spotted you out of the corner of his eye, he sat up a little in his seat, a nearly cute smile crossing his lips. Once you reached his side, the kid next to Eddie glanced up at you curiously, to which you made a face; meanwhile, Eddie just appeared surprised that you were the one to initiate conversation.

“Didn’t see you this morning.” You started simply, crossing your arms in front of you.

“I was late.” He shrugged lazily before giving you a conspiratory look, “What, were you waiting for me?”

You narrowed your eyes a little at his teasing, responding in a flat tone, “Oh, I was absolutely heartbroken.”

“Figured.” Eddie grinned widely, to which you responded with a subtle smile.

You turned away and went to your desk in the second row, surrounded by other students who were part of your usual circle of acquaintances. While waiting for class to start, you looked around the room, your gaze unintentionally drifting back towards Eddie. You studied him for a few moments before a decisive look graced your features and you abruptly stood back up. The movement caused a couple of people to glance your way, but otherwise no one cared.

You walked to the back of the room, turning your attention on the boy sitting next to Eddie, who awkwardly looked between you and his desk as if he were nervous under your gaze, as if he feared looking you in the eye.

“Move.” You say harshly. He looks at you in surprise and confusion, to which you raise a curved brow as if challenging him to defy you, “Move.”

You didn’t have to repeat yourself again. With a surprised scoff, he collected his things and migrated to the next available seat, which was sure to throw off the entire seating arrangement of the class for the day. As you plopped down at the desk next to Eddie’s, he laughed halfheartedly, his expression just as surprised as the other boy’s.

“Jesus, you are mean.” He states, although his eyes seem to show at least a hint of appreciation. You shrug, pulling your notebook and pencil from your bag.

“Well, I wanted to sit here.”

“Ever heard of the word ‘please?’” Eddie teased, shaking his head at you. You gave him a look out of the corner of your eye, refraining from talking back.

As the bell rang and the stragglers migrated in, people began to notice your change of seat. Some people looked at you strangely, others with disapproval, and the rest just didn't seem to notice or care at all. Hell, even your teacher had to pause and search for you during attendance, realizing you weren’t at your usual desk. Her vague hum of disapproval was enough to get a few students to shoot glances your way. As if in response, Eddie stretched his leg across the aisle to rest his foot on the metal basket beneath your seat.

Math class came and went, and as you walked out of the room, Eddie followed right alongside. As you led the way to your next class, Eddie playfully bumped your shoulder with his, which was starting to become a common thing between you two already, a quick way for him to break the rules you laid out for him.

You glanced up at him with a raised brow, “Yes?”

Eddie shrugged, looking falsely nonchalantly, causing you to narrow your eyes in confusion and perhaps mild annoyance. The playfulness wasn’t something you were accustomed to, nor did you think you ever would.

“You gonna sit with us at lunch?” He asked, to which you pulled a face, causing him to laugh without amusement, “I take it that’s a ‘no.’”

“I didn’t exactly factor your friends into this plan.”

Eddie looked nearly amused, but also perhaps a touch critical, “What did you factor in?”

You made a face, but he continued to simply look down at you with a slight grin. You sighed in response, chewing the inside of your cheek with thought.

“I guess we need to come up with some more rules.”

“Do I get to make some this time?” Eddie joked.

You rolled your eyes smally, “I’ll allow it.”

“Then I guess it’s a date.” You paused momentarily to look up at him with narrowed eyes.

“You still have to actually ask me out, that doesn’t count,” The pair of you reach your biology classroom, so you pause outside the door. “I’m expecting those flowers and balloons, you know.”

“I’m sure you are.” Eddie mocked, that damned grin still across his lips.

Students brushed past you to enter the classroom, and you briefly wondered if Duncan - who you shared this class with - was already here, if he had noticed the two of you. But you didn’t dare to look into the classroom, because just your luck he’d figure you were looking for him. But as that thought crossed your mind, you took a small step closer into Eddie’s personal space, putting on your best look of interest as you stared up at him. Eddie first appeared flustered and confused, but he quickly brushed it off as he seemed to slowly realize what you were doing.

“You’re not half bad at this, you know,” Eddie teased, his eyes shining as he said in a slightly lower voice, “If I didn’t know any better, I’d almost believe you liked me.”

Despite yourself, your cheeks warmed a little, but you hoped that it wasn’t obvious. Or maybe you did want it to be obvious. There was just something about Eddie’s tone that threw you off your rhythm, and you mentally kicked yourself for it.

“Don’t flatter yourself.” The flirty expression on your face juxtaposed your flat tone, and Eddie’s face looked almost wicked in response.

“No, that’s supposed to be your job.”

You had to pull your eyes away from Eddie’s - you had absolutely no interest in him, but this performative flirting was starting to mess with you a little. That’s something you’d have to work on as well, because you didn’t need this plan to confuse you one bit.

You didn’t realize how long the two of you had been standing in the hallway, as the ring of the fourth period bell nearly startled you. You found Eddie’s eyes again, giving him as cute a smile as you could muster.

“Go before you land yourself in detention.” You instructed; Eddie grinned widely while shaking his head.

“I practically run detention.” He, again, brushed his fingers along the small of your back as he moved past you, holding your eyes as you watched him go, “I’ll catch you later.”

You gave a small wave before dipping into the classroom, eyes roaming over everyone as you walked to your seat. You caught Duncan looking at you knowingly.

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By Friday afternoon, Amelia was over your spat earlier in the week, insisting that you sit with them at lunch, to which you begrudgingly agreed after she kept pestering you. Well, maybe she wasn’t entirely over it - her snide little comments throughout the week made that abundantly clear. But, just as most teenagers do, she chose to pretend it didn’t happen and go on with life as usual. She ignored the little glances Eddie would shoot you in the hall, the little knowing looks you two shared, and you didn’t mention your new seat next to him in math class.

After classes ended for the day, you were amongst a group of students lingering in the parking lot, everyone discussing that night’s football game and other upcoming plans for the weekend. You actually managed to hold a half-decent conversation with a couple of the cheerleaders and a boy you once upon a time had a crush on back in freshman year; that never went beyond making out drunkenly a couple times at parties. Nearby, Duncan entertained a group with some story that probably wasn’t as interesting as everyone acted; he hadn’t acknowledged you this entire time, and had made it a point of ignoring you since Wednesday.

The group seemed to be in agreement that they’d all go out after the football game, and of course it was presumed that meant everyone, including you. You avoided saying anything on the subject so you wouldn’t be held accountable for it later.

At some point in your conversation, your former crush made a puzzled face at something past your shoulder. You mirrored his expression curiously, looking behind you to see what caught his attention.

Eddie was approaching the group. You had to give him credit, it was ballsy to come up to a dozen popular kids as the guy who was almost universally hated in this school. In that moment, you appreciated Eddie’s confidence and lack of fear.

You decided you’d rather spare yourself the headache of everyone ganging up on Eddie, so stealing a glance at the group, you slid off the hood of the car you sat on, walking away from them without another word. As you met him halfway, Eddie gave you a devilish grin, his eyes drifting from you to the crowd of kids just beyond your shoulder. You raised your brow challengingly at him, but managed a small half-smile at his presence.

You briefly wondered what they were all thinking, what they were all saying. You hoped it was nothing good at all.

“They sure look happy to see me.” Eddie commented, casually sliding his hands in his pockets with a lazy grin once you two came together.

Just like you’ve been working on, you stood closer to Eddie than you would have liked, giving a performance even as your back was turned to all of your friends and acquaintances. You needed to be convincing at all times, so you tried to think about all the little details that would suggest you were interested in Eddie, even if no one could see your face - leaning in as you spoke, twiddling your fingers, etc.

“So, are you asking me out now?” You tilted your head to one side as you asked in a matter-of-fact tone.

A small huff escaped Eddie’s nose, “You’re a real romantic, you know that, princess?”

“Aren’t I just?” You taunted, eyes narrowing.

Keeping his face cool, Eddie leaned forward so you were nearly eye level with one another, a smirk still resting on his lips as he responded in a prodding tone, “I’m going to ask you out now. If that’s alright with you, of course.”

You made a face at his mocking tone, but nodded nonetheless, staring at him impatiently. Eddie put on an extra charming smile for the audience inevitably watching your interaction as he stood back to his full height.

“Then in that case,” He paused to eye you up and down with an expression you’d never seen on his face before - if you didn’t know any better, you would’ve bought it, and you nearly flushed at that thought. Eddie projected his voice, not so loud that it was obvious, but just enough that some of your friends were certain to hear him, “So, what do you say? Let me take you out tonight, anywhere you want.”

“Tonight?” You asked with actual surprise while Eddie smiled at you with a charming look on his face.

“Unless you have something better going on.” Eddie taunted while stealing a glance at the group behind you, his expression growing almost too cocky considering that you both knew that you couldn’t say “no.”

You were certain the group was watching your conversation unabashedly, if Eddie’s attentive eyes were anything to go on. You traced your tongue along your lower lip as you drew out the moment just as Eddie had done to you before. When it seemed that you were taking too long, his gaze flicked back down to you.

“I really hope you don’t have something better going on.” He added as if he were getting nervous, as if this was real and the feeling of rejection was creeping up on him. You raised your brows tauntingly, your expression a little mean, and Eddie realized you did this on purpose. He just had to refrain from letting his impatience show on his face.

You finally show him mercy, adding a flirty smile despite the fact that your friends still couldn’t see your face, “Anywhere I want, huh?”

You could practically feel the impatient exhale that escaped Eddie, his eyes showing the slightest bit of annoyance at you. But he kept that charming grin in place.

“Anywhere.”

“Then it’s a date.” Your tone is a little brighter as you try to convey excitement.

You turn back in the direction of the group so that you could walk to your car, Eddie coming up alongside you. Your stride is confident despite all eyes on you, and you can see some of them whispering to one another. As you breeze past with Eddie beside you, you see Duncan shaking his head in disbelief, while another friend makes a harsh comment about Eddie.

“Pick me up at 7,” You start to instruct, letting your cool eyes look over the crowd of popular kids, “figure out if any good movies are showing, I’m craving popcorn.”

Once you two reach your car, you lean your rear back against the driver door while looking up at Eddie who now had his back to the group. You almost enjoyed the reversal, as you were able to catch every small glance sent your way by Amelia, Janet, and everyone else; now you could see just how harshly everyone had been staring at you before.

You whispered, forcing Eddie to stand a little closer, “We’re not actually going out tonight, I have something going on.”

“Damn,” Eddie teased with a false grin, “you got my hopes up.”

“But we do need to make plans soon,” You continue, ignoring his sarcasm, “We have to figure out how this is going to work.”

“And it’d be nice if your fake boyfriend actually knew anything about you.” Eddie added, to which you made a face despite knowing he had a point. A curious look crossed his face, as if what you said about having plans just a moment ago was finally setting in, “So… what do you have going on tonight?”

“Not telling.” You answer simply as you give him a wicked grin. Your eyes trail back to the group of your former friends for a split second, and in an impulsive act of defiance, you lean up to kiss Eddie on the cheek, his barely-there stubble tickling your lips. You pulled back with a flirty look, desperately fighting the impulse to make a face at the physical contact that you just initiated, “We’ll talk next week, Munson.”

[qqueenofhades]

What do you think of the movement to vote "uncommitted" in the primary? Personally I think it's a good idea as a protest vote, while not "allowing Trump to win" since it's, ya know, the primary. You're voting for "the Democrat you want to be the candidate for president" not who you actually want to be president. Most of the arguments I've seen against it seem to forget primaries exist...

Well, since you came to me and presumably do want my honest opinion on this topic, I'll share it with you. However, this will also be very blunt and candid, including some things which I haven't yet said in the 4+ months since the whole Israel/Hamas situation kicked off, and therefore also frustrated. This frustration should not be read as/taken as being directed at you personally, but since you're the conduit for this question, that's just something I want to highlight.

So. Why should you vote for Biden in the primary, and not "uncommitted" or whatever else?

First of all, what I desperately want to ask all these self-righteous VOTE UNCOMMITTED IN THE PRIMARY TO SEND BIDEN A MESSAGE types is: what exactly the fuck do you want this message to be, and what action do you expect Biden will take as a result? Is this actually based on an expectation of what he can/and or will actually do, or is it just a froth of misguided Online Leftist "rah rah this Bad Thing Happening Is All Biden's Fault," as we also notably went through when Roe was overturned by the Trump-stacked SCOTUS selected precisely for the purpose of overturning Roe? My god, the amount of bad "THIS IS BIDEN/THE DEMOCRATS' FAULT" posts that appeared, and are still circulating on the particularly idiotic corners of this site. Nothing could ever be Trump/the Republicans' fault in that case; it was the same old same old "DEMOCRATS DON'T CARE ENOUGH TO STOP THIS!!!" puerile fantasy. That's what we are getting now with Israel/Hamas. This isn't Hamas's fault for attacking Israel on October 7 (god forbid; the online left loves Hamas) and it isn't even the state of Israel and Netanyahu's fault for responding with full-scale genocide on Gaza. Or it is, somehow, but not so much that Biden personally couldn't magically reach in and stop it "if he really wanted to." I'm sick and fucking tired of this bullshit sixth-grade bad-faith disingenuous approach to playing Super Moral Social Justice Yahtzee and refusing to acknowledge the thousands of complex factors at play, especially when it involves blaming literally anyone other than Biden, personally (just like the Trump cultists, for whom "IT'S BIDEN'Z FAULT" is the beginning and end of their political theory, just like the Online Leftists). I'm sure this will get me called a genocide apologist by the Very Smart Moral Twitter Thinker types, but I don't think "Biden has failed to magically single-handedly solve this crisis, which stems from one of the most major and long-running issues in post-WWII and indeed pre-WWII world history, in four months" is actually a good reason to vote against him.

Likewise: withholding your vote might make more sense as a strategy if Biden was still only blindly supporting Israel and refusing to do anything to pressure them, which is demonstrably untrue. I know it's hard for some of these people to actually read the news and/or anything outside their ultra-curated Twitter feed, but it's been well-reported and well-documented that he is. If the US was directly involved in the bombing campaign on Gaza, sure, tell Biden that you will vote uncommitted to increase pressure on him to pull out. None of that is actually true, and the "information" about Biden's action in re: Gaza on both Twitter and Tumblr is basically just entirely malicious lies. So again: what message are you sending when you decide to be all precious and announce you're not voting for him? You don't want him to pressure Israel? You're willing to blow this up entirely and increase the media nonsense about BIDEN WEAK DEMOCRATS DIVIDED and give Trump an opening to exploit? You really want to announce to the Trump/Putin/Netanyahu axis of evil that their anti-Biden propaganda is working (since all three of them are working as hard as they fucking can to get Biden out of office, and as someone who opposes all three of them, I think this is a good idea to vote for Biden!) and they need to hammer harder on this wedge issue? Because that's all your oh-so-moral Uncommitted vote is doing. It's not a protest. It's not leverage. It is the withdrawing of leverage. If you want Biden in office so he can be pressured to listen to you and take action that you agree with, you will vote for him. Yes, in the primary. Yes, when it's not directly against Trump.

You want a ceasefire, you say? GREAT! WE ALL WANT A CEASEFIRE AND/OR ACTUAL PEACE AND RECOGNITION OF A PALESTINIAN STATE! That's in fact why you should be busting your fucking ass to make sure Biden gets re-elected, and to give him a strong show of support in the primary. Biden is the only candidate with a credible long-term (and like, baseline functional sane adult) plan for Gaza. Biden is the one who has been pressuring Netanyahu in every single contact to tone it down and stop acting like an insane murderous maniac and therefore torching any remains of sympathy for the attack Israel suffered in October. Biden is the one who has his entire diplomatic team working on high-level contacts with the Israeli government and the Hamas representatives via Qatar, while sufficiently threatening Iran to back down from frothing at the mouth to destroy Israel (once again, just like the rest of the antisemitic western left). Biden is the one who is pushing for this not to be World War III, and yet we get Baby's First Social Justice Activist screaming at him for being GENOCIDE JOE and blaming him personally for not, as I keep putting it, shapeshifting into Netanyahu's body and making this stop. "He should publicly call for a ceasefire!" Or, and this is just a suggestion, he should DO HIS FUCKING JOB and continue to work on serious problems that don't have instant socially media marketable catchphrases and won't come with instant gratification. Also, please tell me how you plan to get both Hamas and Israel to accept the same terms for a ceasefire, abide by it, and do exactly what Big Daddy Biden told them, because you, the dedicated anti-western anti-imperialist, think that's the best course of action?

Like. I mean. As vice president and now as president, Biden is actually one of the least foreign-intervention-happy leaders the US has ever had. He was originally against the Abbottabad raid to take out Osama bin Laden in 2011; he wound down the overseas drone assassination program (at which the Online Leftists screamed bloody murder at Obama, ignored in Trump, and then refused to give Biden any credit for ending) to almost nothing, he pulled the US out of Afghanistan, and even though he's been supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia, he's also been extremely slow and cautious (in my opinion, too slow and cautious) at giving them all the military hardware they need, even before this latest blockade of aid in the House by Putin's favorite little bitch Mike Johnson. He has already presided over a historic shift in US policy toward Israel, in terms of conditioning the use of lethal aid, imposing reporting requirements, starting to criticize them publicly, and calling for the recognition of a Palestinian state and more humanitarian aid to get into Gaza. Yet in the Online Leftists' mind, because he is not personally out there Captain America-ing away the Israeli bombs and/or calling for Israel to be totally destroyed "from the river to the sea" as the Tumblr activists are fond of using no matter how often Jews ask them to stop, there is nothing he's actually doing! GENOCIDE JOE!!!!! Like, I thought the anti-western anti-American crowd thought all overseas American influence was evil (but all overseas Russian and/or Chinese influence is fine). When Biden actually doesn't recklessly intervene in foreign conflicts like Kennedy/Johnson/Nixon/Reagan/Bush 1/Bush 2/pretty much every American president in the latter half of the twentieth century, you'd think that would get him plaudits? NAH.

"Biden should stop selling Israel weapons without Congressional approval!" Okay, sure, he should. Which he did one time, and he also repeatedly promised to veto and/or not pass any only-Israel aid package that didn't also help Ukraine and Taiwan. He's also not beholden to the frothing antisemitic Online Leftists position that Israel should just lie down and let all of its citizens be killed and its state wiped from existence. Like. We also remember that Jewish voters exist in America, right? And that Jewish lives are something which are repeatedly and demonstrably under threat in the rest of the world, including from Hamas and the Houthis (who are genuinely terrible people and the western left's warm embrace of them as principled anti-Israel actors is all we need to know about their inherent brainrot and moral vacancy). We know that maybe going full masks-off antisemite (which Biden isn't going to do anyway, for any number of reasons) isn't the greatest plan and nothing to which you should be conditioning your vote? Likewise, please tell me how you plan to make Congress (especially the GOP-led clown car House) "do what Biden wants," since you're still beholden to that being the be-all-and-end-all of moral action? Or how you account for Congress at all, and not just think The President is An Almighty King?

Aside from all this, I am sick to my fucking back teeth of the Precious Moral Princesses (gender neutral) who have spent four years lying about everything Biden has done. We had the personally blaming him for Roe ending (he could unilaterally overturn SCOTUS if he really wanted!) We had the endless bashing about student debt, only to ignore him actually making the most major effort to forgive student debt in all the post-Reagan years. We have had a complete ignoring and/or distortion of his domestic policy accomplishments, which are some of the most momentous since FDR and LBJ. We have had an utter ignoring, revision, and downplaying of the damage Trump did in one term and how very much worse his second would be. We have had to endure "WELL YOU CAN'T ASK ME TO VOTE FOR BIDEN" at every single second for every single thing, because this is such a terrible onerous thing to ask them to lift one single fucking finger to give us some more time to come up with a better solution. And yet, as astutely pointed out by one of my anons yesterday, they utterly don't care whether the obvious outcome of this action is to help Trump get back into power. Apparently that's not a moral reach too far, but straining their delicate tender moral sensibilities to fucking do the goddamn bare minimum to help us out -- both in America and around the world -- no, no. We can't have that.

Like. These people allegedly want a ceasefire, and they want it to come about by asking literally nothing more of them then posting snide anti-Biden diatribes on social media. That's the extent of the effort they're willing to put in. They can't even trouble themselves to take the first step of voting for people who want to address this crisis in a constructive way. So yeah, I have a hard time believing this is anything deeply felt in regard to opposing genocide, and just wants what makes them look morally superior. Also: I don't care if your feelings are genuinely pure and strong and you obviously oppose what's happening in Gaza (we all do!) and want it to end. In that case, why the fuck aren't you throwing your support (yes! Even in the primary!) behind the one guy who's actually working to fix it and not just posting empty platitudes on Twitter? It likewise does not excuse you from the harmful consequences of your rhetoric and actions, if you decide that the best way to act on your deep-seated and genuine desire to stop the genocide is just to blindly bash Biden all day every day. Not voting for Biden in the primary does not excuse the fact that this election is against Trump and everything horrible that he represents, and that we are in this situation largely because the online left has learned literally fucking nothing from 2016 and is eager to do it all over again. Not voting for Biden in the primary does not give you a special Gold Star Moral Activist sticker announcing that you were too virtuous to engage in the process now, but if you're sufficiently placated, you maybe will do it in November. Miss me with that bullshit. I've spent eight years pleading with people to help us fix this mess, by -- yes! engaging with the flawed process that makes partial changes!!! -- and all I hear is that same fucking nonsense. That is a large part of why this response is so steamed.

Anyway. In short, I don't think voting "uncommitted" is a good idea, I think it only helps Trump in the short and long term, I think it protests nothing, I think it represents the same old tired anti-voting schlock that I have had more than fucking enough of, and I don't endorse it by any means. However, you will see that while I can strongly and unequivocally give you my opinion that it is a bad idea, I cannot actually reach through the screen, take control of your body, and force you to obey me one way or the other. So maybe, just maybe, Biden can't do the same with Netanyahu. Weird.

[justroaminground]

a little distraction (Sam Winchester x Reader)

summary: sam got his soul back and the three of you are working a case. sam is still all over the place and you decided he needed a little distraction.

warnings: NSFW, smut, 18+, fluff/smut, oral, sex

Enjoy! If there are any requests feel free to leave them. Sorry for mistakes i am sure you get the point. ;) xx

+++++++++++++++

dean, sam an you were working a case, which sam has already been working on with samuel. unfortunately since he just got his soul back, his memories were still gone, but he seemed to have flashbacks the further you guys worked into the case.

you sat at the table in the motelroom, hacking surveillance cameras to check some traces you had. dean sat across from you and sam was switching through police files. from time to time you were able to see from the corner of you eye, he was struggling. sam rubbed his forehead and sighed.

"fuck it we are done here!" dean shot up and went over to sam, to get the files out of his hand.

"dean what the hell?!" sam looked at dean confused.

"you are scratching the damn wall sam! over and over again! you know exactly you aren't supposed to do so!" dean was frustrated and tried to knock some responsibility into sam's stubborn head.

"dean look, i am fine! yeah sure memories come back but only in relation to this case! i don't remember anything from hell. please.." he looked at dean with his face full of pain and regret. "i just wanna end it the right way here. i closed this case in a horrible way."

until now you just watched the two of them having this heated argument but you're done watching. you cleared your throat and got up.

"honestly i think dean ist right sam." you added in a calm way. both of their heads shot into your direction and you smiled softly. "i am not a huge fan of fighting. dean and i are very concerned for your wellbeing sam. be the responsible one you are and listen to dean. at least stay here and let us finish the case."

sam lowered his gaze to the floor and slightly nodded. his hands rubbing against eachother and he took a moment until he answered.

"alright." he spoke up looking back up at the two of you. "but i want to stay. you two finish the case and i will stay here doing all the research."

"thank's god!" dean said and exhaled loudly. he put his hands on his sides and took his glass from the table, filling it up with whisky.

you smiled at sam and padded his shoulder. before sitting down you went to dean and replaced his whisky glass with a bottle of water.

"talking about being responsible." you gave him a warning look. "you better stop drown you frustration in alcohol." you sat back down at the table.

sam looked at dean amused and mouthed "fuck you!" to him. dean mouthed a "shut up!" back.

your look went from one brother to the other and you laughed. "seriously?!" shaking you head you went back to the laptop with your concentration.

after a few hours, you had a rough plan for tomorrow and the three of you went to bed. you got up early with dean and the two of you headed out to get this case finally finished.

the day seemed like it would never end, hopping from one questioning to the next. looking at traces over traces. talking to frustrated and clueless people sometimes weighed hard on you. not just you, but dean was way better at hiding it.

"i feel like we should get lunch and take a bit of a break?" you suggested to dean and handed him a bottle of water. "you haven't been drinking all day long"

"yeah you're probably right." he rubbed his eyes with one hand. the other one still resting on the steering wheel. "thank's love" he took the water bottle from you and took a sip.

dean parked at the next restaurant and you got out. you noticed he wasn't getting out and you looked back into the car.

"are you coming?" you questioned.

"i think i'm gonna call sam real quick. you can already go ahead and place the order" he answered and took his phone out of his pocket.

"fine, se ya" you added and made your way into the restaurant.

you took a seat and looked through the menu. the waiter took you out of your mind and you looked up at him smiling sweetly.

"hello beautiful, what can i get you?"

"i'd love to have the chicken wrap and a coke and for my friend, which will join, a bacon cheeseburger and a beer please." you told him and nodded.

"thank you very much for your order. food will be here asap" he smiled at you and left.

dean made his way to your table and sat down. his face was pissed and you tried to catch his gaze.

"hey grumpy bear what's going on? didn't he answer?"

"he did."

"and?!"

"i just got a call from ben. he said lisa was in trouble."

you had to process for a minute what he just said and you nodded. "ugh..then why are you still sitting here?!"

"i can't just leave right now. sam is still smoshy in his head and you'd have to work alone on this case which is complicated enough." dean gave back and frustration was written all over his face.

you raised an eyebrow and leaned back in the chair, inhaled deeply and placed your hands on the table. "yes i am a woman and sam is still weak, but that doesn't mean you have to manage everything. ben needs you now and i want you to get your ass up after we ate and leave. do you understand me?" you questioned him in a serious but quiet ton so no one would hear you, giving him the talk.

"i never-"

"dean. my question is a simple yes or no question. i do not want any rants." you smiled at him sweetly and crossed your arms in front of your chest.

"fuck you y/n. but i love you." he mumbled and nodded. "but if it's getting risky i want you to call me!"

you nodded and with that the food arrived. both of you finished your meals and after paying you made your way out the restaurant.

"i'll take you back to the motel" dean said while walking to the car.

"oh no! we have to finish some questionings?" you said.

"but not alone!" dean insisted.

"i am not alone" you smirked while getting with him to the car to simply get your gun. carefully putting it into the waistband. "the heaven always provides us with the lovely angels. "you winked at him and dean rolled his eyes.

"well that makes me even more insecure about leaving you alone"

"oh shut up and drive dean!" you rant back and made your way out of the parking lot.

you gathered your thoughts and worked off point after point on your to do list. being on your own made you slower since you had to be extra careful, but you got there. after talking to the last victim you finally decided to go back to the motel. it was a one hour walk back and you reached the motel pretty tired. you loosened up your ponytail and let your hair fall down over your shoulders. trying to get in the room you noticed you forgot your keys. before you could knock the door swung open and sam stood there.

"y/n?! are you okey?! where is dean?!" he pulled you into the room and was completely all over the place.

"sam calm down.." you laughed slightly and closed the door. kicking your shoes aside and undressing your blazer. "dean had a emergency and went to lisa and ben. i finished the to do's we had for today alone." you explained to him and handed him some more files and notes. "we can look through them tomorrow"

"hold on you went on your own?!" sam looked at you in disbelief. "are you out of your mind? anything could have happened! why didn't dean tell me to join you?! don't the two of you believe in me anymore?!

"sam please" you looked at him tired and shook your head. "just take it as it is. it has nothing to do with you. you're all over the place right now. let's just end the day and start fresh tomorrow alright?" you didn't wait for his answer and vanished in the bathroom.

you took a shower feeling your muscles relax after the warm water rushed along your body. you smiled to yourself and felt instantly better. it took you about and hour, finishing in the bathroom and went back into the room. wearing your black leggings and a bralette.

"would you mind if i borrowed your hoddie sam?" you questioned while separating your clothes from what you're still able to wear and what has gotten dirty.

"uh-y-yeah just g-go ahead!" he stuttered and you turned confused to him.

"are you okey?" you looked at him worried and went over to his bag, taking it out of his bag and pulling it over your head. letting it hug your body.

"yeah. course why wouldn't i?!" sam shot back and turned a bit so his back was facing you.

his behavior seemed very out of place and you walked over to him. rested your hands on his shoulder and looked at the laptop.

"don't you think we had enough for today sam?" you said while looking at his profile. watching his lips press together and fingers stop from typing. he bit the inside of his cheek and nodded slightly.

"are you nervous?" unsure you let go of his shoulders and sat right onto the table next to him.

"no!" he blurred out and closed the laptop real quick getting up and walked a few steps back from you.

confused you just looked at him. as wrong as it felt you kind of enjoyed him being so jumpy.

"am i distracting you..sammy?" you asked sweetly, your legs swingging slightly and you smiled.

his eyes looked anywhere but to you. "uhm i think i just need a break" his hands rested at his hip and he nodded quickly.

"maybe you need something else." you looked at him and slipped of the table, tiptoeing towards him.

he followed every movement you made and walked slowly back.

"sorry i can't follow you y/n" he mumbled nervously.

you continued to walk over to him and played with the way to long sleeves. he bumped into the wall behind him and and he was literally nervousness in person.

you stopped right in front of him and looked up at him. taking his belt buckle into your hand and pulled him closer. he melted like butter and you bit your lower lip.

for months he made you feel this way. without his soul, sam constantly crossed your boundaries. there was always this tension between you an sam. the two of you even happened to have sex once but it was right before he said yes to lucifer and from there on everything went downhill, you distanced yourself as best as possible from him and spent your time hunting with bobby.

now that he's the warmhearted sam you knew from before, even more cautious and innocent than before it made you feel some type of way.

quicker than you were able to comprehend what he just did, you were the one standing on the wall. the two of you got very close and you felt his breath hitting your face.

"what do you think you're doing?" he whispered, looking deeply into your eyes.

"testing your memory?" insecure your voice cracked and you laid your hands onto his sides.

"i know what happened before i said yes and i also remembered what happened after.. between us. i was a complete asshole. that's why i keep my distance. " he gently pushed your hands from his body and turned away from you sitting onto the bed.

"sam don't.." you quickly walked over to him.

"y/n please don't. i don't trust myself right now. we should really keep a distance for now.." he explained not even looking at you.

"sam no please, don't do that to me!" you pleaded while getting closer and kneeling down in front of him so he had to look you in the eyes. "it felt so pure..and real, don't you remember that?!"

his face expressed a painful look and he still managed to not look at you. you took his hands into yours and rested them on your sides. you took his face in your hands and tears were forming in your yes.

"don't end things like that." you whispered and felt his grip getting tighter on your sides. he tried to push you away but you grabbed onto his shoulders and pulled yourself back to him. his body pressed against his, kneeling between his legs. he was fighting so hard against his desires, but couldn't hold them in any longer.

he rested one hand on your cheek and the next thing you knew was his lips crashing against yours. you kissed him needy back and wrapped your arms around his neck. he pulled you up onto his lap and you pulled away only to undress the hoddie.

"i missed you so much" you whimpered into the kiss, your hips working against his and you felt his hard member growing.

you felt that he was still holding back, being very hesitant. you pulled away and got up from his leg. getting on your knees, unbuckling his jeans while looking up to him.

"y/n i-i don't know if we should.." he stuttered while following your hands with his eyes.

"relax sam.." you spoke softly and stroke his member through his boxers.

"i-i don't wanna hurt you. if i am getting to rough you need to stop me." he suppressed a moan and his breath getting heavy.

gently you pulled his boxer down, exposing his fully hard cock and you looked up at him. "think you can try but maybe i want it to hurt.." you whispered cheekily and started to kiss his length.

you saw his jaw clenching and he grapped into the sheets hard. you teased him by flicking your tongue around his tip, hurtfully slow taking him into your mouth.

a raspy moan escaped his lips and it send shivers down your spine. your legs got weak and your body got very hot, feeling the tingling under your skin.

you opened your mouth just a bit more and started to bump your head. you supported blowing him off with your hand since you couldn't fit him in completely and looked up at him.

his lips were slightly parted, heavy breaths left his mouth and his eyes were closed. he let himself go and buried his hand in your hair.

"you're doing so good. making me feel very good love" he praised you and opened his eyes. following every movement you made.

you took him out of your mouth and kept moving your hand. before you could say anything he made you undress your leggings.

he stopped you from getting back onto your knees and pulled you back onto his lap. he kissed you needy and undressed the last piece of clothing you had on. your bralette. you moved your body against his and his hard cock stroke you pussy.

a moan escaped your lips and you pushed him back by the chest onto the mattress. you sat gently onto his cock, moving your hips and therefore your pussy along his length and you bit your lower lip.

"i can't wait any longer sam.." you breathed out impatiently and managed to grab his cock. you brought him shaky to your entrance.

"w- i- y/n" sam stumbled on his own words and sat up. he lifted you gently onto his cock, letting you slide down at your own speed.

you laid your head onto his shoulder and moaned surprised against his skin.

"g-god sam!" you needed a minute to adjust to him and started to move your hips at first slowly. he placed soft kisses along your shoulder and stroke your back with his hands.

then he made you look at him and kissed you softly. holding you against his body and supported you moving on top of him. he moaned against your lips and you held onto him as if he could vanish any minute. you missed the intimacy between the two of you so much you wished this moment wouldn't end.

you picked up the speed and it got harder to kiss him gently. your bodies got sweatier and rubbed against eachother. the kisses got filthier and the two of you fell back onto the mattress.

"i've waited for this so bad.." you moaned out as you felt his arms wrap around your torso, pressing you down against his body and fucking into you harder.

you cried out and literally melted into a puddle of ecstasy, laying there while he made you feel things, you never thought existed.

"fuck y/n i needed that so much" sam moaned against your neck and left a hickey.

"p-please i'm-" you couldn't finish your sentence as this thrust hit you g-spot and you body clenched up. sam didn't stop but fucked you through your orgasm as he then finished into you.

completely unable to say anything meaningful right now your body just laid there on top of him, not being able to move. he loosened his grip right away and pulled you softly off his cock, laying you carefully down next to him. he moved to your side and eyed you up and down. one hand rested on your tummy and his eyes looked at you worried.

exhausted you placed your hand on his cheek and stroke it softly. "don't look at me like that." you kissed his lips.

"did i hurt you?" he whispered against your lips and pulled you even closer.

"stop worrying." you told him and shook your head. "you're not a monster sam. your still you and you will get used to it." you calmed him down and gave him one last kiss before getting up.

"yeah you're right." he nodded, rubbing his hands over his face and took a minute to collect his thoughts.

"shower?" you asked with a sweet smile and took his hand into yours. without hesitation, the two of you vanished in the bathroom, getting clean after sweating your soul out. ;)

[starlostastronaut]

DAY 19 | HOLD ON

PAIRING: lee minho x reader

GENRE: slight angst with happy ending, fluff, spy au

WC: 1.09k

CW: spy typical mentions of violence/guns/injury etc, they fight for like two seconds

PROMPT: "if you die, i'll kill you"

in true teri fashion, the prompt is just inspo, i mainly wrote this as continuation of the last minho one (day 16), but i can be read as standalone as well :) i have to admit, i'm in love with this au. what do you say stars, multichap fic in 2024? anyway, enjoy reading <3

title from unsteady - x ambassadors

general masterlist here

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You were pacing from one side of the room to the other. Out of the corner of your eye you caught Felix's gaze. With your head down and a guilty look on your face, you stopped pacing and headed towards one of the chairs in the back of the room. You sat down and folded your hands in your lap, trying to stay calm. Your pacing around wasn't helping anybody, and Felix had already got up three times to direct you back to your chair. Now he was standing up for the fourth time, despite you already sitting. Quietly, as to not disturb the people working, he stalked over to you, taking the empty seat next to you. He threw one arm around you, bringing you to his side to comfort you.

“He's going to be okay,” he said. “It's Minho we're talking about. He always pulls through.” Felix gently rubbed your arm, minding the bandage on your bicep.

You slumped against his body. “I know, but I should be there with him. He hasn't gone solo in so long.” Your voice was laced with worry as you looked up to Felix, seeking reassurance in his face. “I just can't shake the thought that something happened and I'm not there to help him.” Felix only pulled you closer, resuming the gentle strokes on your arm.

You couldn’t help but worry. On your last mission, a bullet ended up in your arm. If anything, it was your fault because you weren’t cautious enough, but Minho still blamed himself. You could tell from the way he was on edge the whole way back to the base when you were bleeding and falling in and out of consciousness. And once you were properly taken care of, he didn't stop fussing over you for the whole week. And even though you were now healed enough to go back into the field, he refused to hear it. Just this morning, before Minho left, you fought over this exact mission.

“You're in no condition to go back out there!” Minho yelled.

You crossed your arms over your chest. “Seungmin cleared me three days ago, Minho! Three! I'm more than capable of being back in the action. And you need me. We're a team for god's sake!” You shot him an angry look. You would have thought he had more faith in you than that. You were partners; you never went on a mission without the other, even long before you got together. You knew you could trust him with everything you had, just as he could trust you. But now he was trying to stop you.

"Well, fuck me for caring about my partner's health,” Minho exclaimed, throwing up his arms. Then he ran his hand through his hair, letting out a frustrated groan. “Look, I just... I can't see you injured again. And I know that if you're there, I won't be able to focus on the mission, not completely,” he admitted.

All of the anger you had evaporated from your body. “Oh.” You thought he didn't trust you, but he was just worried. It was sweet, in a Minho-typical way. He wasn't very fond of expressing his emotions openly, so to hear how much he cares about you warmed your heart. “Okay. Just this once, though,” you agreed reluctantly, but you knew you didn't have an argument that could counter that.

Minho smiled in relief. “You'll be on the next one, I promise.” 

“Don't die out there without me, okay?” you joked, but your words were much more serious than you allowed Minho to hear. Just because you were going to be benched for this one to ease his worry didn't mean yours didn't skyrocket.

“It's a simple scout, I'll be in and out before you know it,” Minho promised. He walked closer to you, giving you a quick kiss, before he went to gather his things for the mission.

Except Minho was wrong. What was supposed to be a quick mission was taking two hours more than it should have. The last you knew, Minho was stuck, hiding from the security because he had been discovered. You didn’t even have it in you to comment on how, with you, that would never happen. All that was on your mind right now was whether he was still alive. The tech team lost all communication with him exactly forty-two minutes ago. Yes, you counted. You had been in the monitoring room the whole time, and when they announced the loss of contact, you nearly flipped. Hence, Bang Chan sent Felix to watch you. And thank God for that, because if he hadn't stayed with you to calm and comfort you, you were positive you would rip somebody's head off. Minho was out there, all alone, and you had no way of knowing what was going on.

“Boss, we have a visual!” one of the IT guys suddenly shouted, and Bang Chan was at his side almost immediately. The guy quickly explained how he managed to hack the security cameras and provided everyone with an unsettling scene. Groups of armed guards were running around, clearly searching for someone. 

You shot up from your seat so fast that Felix wasn't able to hold you back. In a second, you stood next to Chan, watching the cameras like a hawk. It didn't look good, you had to admit that. But if they were trying to find something, that meant Minho was okay, right?

“He's okay, I know it,” Chan mumbled when he saw you by his side. You smiled at him. He had no way of knowing it, but there was something comforting in hearing the words come from Chan himself. If the boss believed in Minho, then he had to be alright. 

As if on cue, the sound of static came through the main radio, followed by a hoarse, unclear voice, but still disquintishable enough. “Stray base, do you copy? This is Lee Know, I'm on my way to you.”

The whole room let out a sigh of relief. You vaguely registered Chan snatching the radio to respond to Minho and Felix coming to hug you from behind. “See, I told you he'd be alright,” Felix hummed, a happy grin stretching across his face. You nodded, feeling yourself smile too. Minho was alive and on his way back to you, and that was all that mattered. You were so going to scold him for worrying you like that when he got back, though.

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©starlostastronaut 2023 | do not repost/translate my work without permission

[zoeykallus]

Hello Zoey,

How are you??? We miss your stories so much!!!!!!

You write a lot about the Batch and I imagine that you must have watched both seasons and that the personality of the characters is no longer a secret to you. I am French and on a French forum that I read, a person thinks that Crosshair is a psychopath in view of his behavior in the series. I don't agree at all but he made a lot of arguments. What do you think about it? If you had to define Crosshair's personality what would you say?

Thank you so much !!!!!!

Aloha!

SPOILER!!! For those who haven't seen both BAD BATCH seasons. And a little warning, I might have used some expletives

Uh, I'm probably making enemies with this one. I'll say right up front, just to be clear, this is just my guess, my perception. So the things I write next are not automatically facts and I don't automatically assume that they are, I'm just filling in some gaps with my HCs. To be honest, I had a few moments in the first season where I wasn't sure about Crosshair. I went back and forth between blaming his behavior on the chip or labeling him as "evil". Because we get a lot of we get a lot of information throughout the first season, that more or less cancels each other out and doesn't make sense as a whole. The chip might have had some influence at some point, but I honestly think, by far not as much as some may want to believe. So wich one ist it now? Chip or evil?

Basically though, I think it's neither one nor the other. Assuming the people behind TBB really thought that far, I think it's a lot more complicated than that. Well, there's a pinch of "asshole" with a huge load of "stubborn dickhead" on the side in Crosshair either way. At least in my opinion. But! I think his decisions stem more from the fact that everything around him has suddenly changed.

Being a soldier has always given him a purpose, a place in life, a task, something in which he saw function and meaning. His brothers suddenly want to leave it behind, and rightly so, but Crosshair is unsettled. If he were to join them, he would give up everything that has defined him so far, at least that's how he feels.

Try to imagine that something is happening around you and suddenly your whole life is about to be completely turned upside down and complicated. That would scare me, it would make me feel more than just uncomfortable. Because everyone is different, everyone reacts differently. Crosshair tries for a while to convince his brothers that it's right to continue to follow orders, because anything else could result in them being disbanded or separated.

The fact that Hunter wants to steer the group in a different direction scares him, because then he might soon be alone. I think that's one reason why in the course of the first season, before the batch is separated, he also goes on a confrontational course with his Sergeant.

Numerous decisions he has made, things he has done, are more than borderline, definitely reprehensible. But you have to remember, that's all he knows. Effectively following orders, that's what his whole life consisted of. There was no real childhood, no family life. Like all other clones, Crosshair was born into the life of a soldier. Crosshair is the kind of person who goes into emotional freefall when people try to take away what he feels is his destiny. So he does everything he can to prevent this from happening, he doesn't want to lose this place, this position, what he is used to.

The path he is taking is wrong, and I understand why some people assume that he is evil. However, I didn't think he was a psychopath at first, but a sociopath. Unfortunately, you get this impression in one or two scenes that I simply don't know how to explain or justify.

...where was I...

In the meantime, he wavers between anger and disappointment at his brothers, partly because they have let him down from his point of view, partly because their behavior could backfire on him and partly out of pure frustration. Someone who is already a rather difficult person, thrown into a situation like this, a man who has been conditioned to simply function as a soldier, I imagine that's much more complex than to just label him psycho and/or evil. None of this justifies some of his actions, murders I would call it, albeit on orders. I'm pretty sure he'll have to deal with that for quite a while, if he lives long enough, it's the kind of thing that haunts you to sleep. (In season 2, we have a moment after talking to Cody about soldiers, machines and decisions, where you get a little glimpse that Crosshair can have sleepless nights too, and I think that was the beginning of his self-reflection FINALLY!) We see at the end of the first season that he's not a complete ass, he saves Omega and also AZ, he acts like it's reluctant, but he knows it's the right thing to do, no one is forcing him to do it. Since Omega saved him before, he later mentions that they're even now, so you could read into that now, that he's using that as an excuse because he doesn't want to admit that he would have saved them either way. I'm just putting that assumption out there.

Now, in the second season, we see more and more clearly that his loyalty as a soldier is being trampled on by the Empire. In one specific episode in particular, in which Mayday unfortunately dies, we see very clearly how he realizes what status he has in the Empire, namely none at all. He's a clone, a special one, but just like the other clones, he's worth practically nothing. Cheap labor, cannon fodder, nothing more. Just looking at the gear of Mayday and his crew already screams it out loud, the empire doesn't give a damn about them. But then Mayday, the brother he tries to save, dies because of an Officer's neglect/ignorance/assholery (is that a word?) The realization is terrible, because he realizes that he basically always knew or should have known this. He now acts in extreme contrast to his previous attitude and kills a superior. The fact that he contacts his brothers and tries to warn them shows that he is trying to do the right thing. That he's still a Batcher at heart, that he cares, and that he doesn't care what happens to him as long as he can send out this warning. He must have realized that escape from Tantiss is highly unlikely, he doesn't even really try, his priority is to send this last message to his brothers. All in all, I don't think he's a psychopath. However, I do think he is emotionally/mentally broken.

My honest guess or thought is that there is/could be so much potential in this man, in a good way, if someone had ever taken the time to really nurture it.

Long Story short, he is actually sensitive and scared. Being the cold-hearted soldier is his way of dealing with it. Scared people do the worst shit sometimes. Fear leads to desperation, and the latter leads to fatal decisions. Like staying with the empire and killing people. 🤷🏻‍♀️

I feel like I just made a lot of excuses for that toothpick chewing problem child. I don't know how much of this is making sense, my head hurts 😅

And I admit I'm so afraid for each and every one of them in season 3.

[kelloggsenthusiast]

If montell fish songs were angst stories: Talk 2 me

The heaviness in my chest grew progressively worse with every passing second. Sascha wasn't home yet, but he said he'd be here over two hours ago. I ran my hand over his pillow, longingly.

It was no secret that Sascha's and my relationship was not in a good place. We could barely sit together for an hour without fighting over something stupid, ranging from my insecurities to his jealousy and possessiveness. We couldn't agree on anything anymore, always having conflicting views and opinions and it was straining our relationship. It was so bad that we could go on for days without speaking to each other. In the four years we'd been together, this had never happened. Of course we fought like any normal couple, but it wasn't as bad as tonight.

He took me to the Opera for a show and we stayed for the subsequent cocktail party. It was at the party that someone approached us and asked to talk to him. I didn't mind, so I let her. It was only a few moments later that I realized that the person was his ex girlfriend. My head snapped in the direction of where they went and I curtly excused myself from the circle of people Sascha and I were talking to.

A dull ache developed in my chest with every step I took towards the corridor they ran off to. I found Alex and the girl- alone- and speaking in hushed tones. Her hands were on his chest and around his shoulders and his hands were idly at his sides.

Blinded by my anger, I fled from there. I heard Sascha call after me but i just kept moving. The lights were brighter, the sounds were louder and the pain was more intense. I felt like dying. I made my way out of the opera house and onto the pavement. I placed a hand over my chests the anger gave way to bone crushing pain. I heaved a sob before covering my mouth.

"Meine Liebe," I hear Sascha say as I feel his hands wrap around my shoulders.

I pull away and wipe my tears frantically, thanking God for waterproof makeup.

"I'm fine, in sorry," I say, my voice still thick with tears.

"You're not okay, Ma-"

"I said I'm fine. Let's go back. Rafa and the others will be looking for us," I say, getting ready to go back.

"For God's sake, Max, do something. React. Scream. Cry, anything. I'm tired of you being so goddamn passive!" He shouts. I turn to face him slowly, trying to control the simmering anger I feel.

"What exactly do you want me to do, Alex? How do you want me to react? For fucks sake, I'm tired, okay? There, I said it! I hate that your Goddamn ex is ruining everything we've built and I can't do anything because you're letting her-"

"Dont you fucking assume I'm cheating on you, Maxine."

"How am I not to assume, Alex? You said you broke up with her long ago but why is she here? What was she going to do to you? What were you about to let her do to you?"

" Fuck, Max, it's not even like that. Four years we've been together! You know me better than anyone else and you know I'd never do that to you. I'd never let it go there."

" Well, lately I don't know the man I've been laying next to at night."

"Thats rich, considering I've had to force you to open up to me."

I scoff and turn around, heading back to the party. I find Rafa and tell him I'm leaving. Alexander materializes besides me and his hand is on the small of my back. To them, we are a happy couple.

It cannot change.

The drive home is awkward and painfully silent. I run through the argument in my head and regret immediately seizes me. I want to apologize because, ultimately, I'm the one in the wrong. I never open up to him and tell him what's on my mind and in my heart.

He's frustrated, and rightfully so.

Back at our apartment, he changes into his tennis clothes, grabs his duffle bag and tells me he'll be home in an hour.

I roll over to his side of the bed and inhale. It's been a little over four hours since he left. My eyes fill with tears and I feel sincere remorse for how I've been treating him.

My own issues and insecurities shouldn't interfere with our relationship. I simply love him too much to lose him over something this trivial.

I pretended to be asleep while cuddling his pillow when he finally arrived minutes later. I heard him shower and move around the apartment before joining me in bed.

"I wish you could talk to me, like you used to. I love you, Max," he says before kissing my forehead and falling asleep besides me.

[stellaluna33]

You match my opinions perfectly and I was wondering your opinion on something. So a big discourse between fans is characterisation in receivable particularly with Logan and rory with Logan in particular being a big arguing point. There arguments seem to use season 7 of his “growth” but i was wondering as season 7 isn’t what creator wanted and revival is doesn’t that mean it makes sense As his “growth” was with other writers and not part of plan?

Yeah, that's pretty much what I've come to believe: that the character arc ASP intended for Logan all along was basically what happened in the Revival. A lot of things about the Revival make a lot more sense if you imagine them taking place soon after Season 6, and it was billed as ASP finally getting to end the show "the way she wanted."

A lot of people complained that the "Logan is Christopher" parallel "came out of nowhere," but the more I rewatch the show and see older interviews, it becomes increasingly obvious to me that he was ALWAYS written that way. A guy who "rebels" in superficial ways but lets his life be decided for him in all the ways that matter most, maybe because he doesn't know what he really wants enough to take any real risks for it. The new writers (for Season 7) apparently wanted to take his character in a more positive direction, and people who really like the character understandably really liked that. I can't blame them... I mean, if you're fond of a character, you want to see them do well... But looking at the series as a whole, I am more interested in thinking about the story ASP was TRYING to tell. It also frustrates me that Logan's "development" seemed to come at the expense of Rory's in some ways. She went into the relationship saying, "People can change!" and, "I'm good for him!" and while Seasons 5 and 6 seemed to show that Rory herself ended up changing far more than Logan did, Season 7 apparently decided that... that should work? Logan was "tamed by the love of a Good Woman!" He was inspired to be Good and Brave and settle down because Rory was smiling and supportive and patient enough! "You broke him," the writers had Paris declare triumphantly (at which S7 Rory was oh-so-sweetly surprised and dismayed). I don't know, I mean that's a deeply appealing fantasy for a lot of people. But I really don't think that's where ASP was going with it. She was aiming for something a bit more tragic, it seems, which, on one hand might be a little depressing in some ways... But on the other hand, I do think it makes for a more interesting story in other ways.

[ooc-miqojak]

It's actually incredibly nice to interact with someone who is capable of having a challenging talk when there's a miscommunication, or crossed wires, or hurt feelings. And especially since recently...I've had to deal with some real beyond-belief human beings who went out of their way to privately message me with presumptuous statements and incredibly below-the-belt insults... instead of just trying to talk like adults, and understand what was actually going on in the situations they were making assumptions about.

Imagine you're enjoying your morning - watching birds, playing with your cats, shopping for a beginner's embroidery kit because you want to learn a new skill and be creative, and you're enjoying the first real sunshine in about 9 months...you're delighted that your seasonal depression might be lifting at last! And two complete strangers start making assumptions about you, and saying the world's most cruel, and unhinged shit in your DMs, and you have no idea who one of them even is! One of them tries to claim 'you just hate everything' because you confided in said person that they said something that was frustrating and hurtful to you - but enjoying your day, and everything about it except the condescending remark they made... means 'you hate everything,' apparently. Now imagine the refreshing delight of, a day later, someone else you barely know coming to you in your DMs... in good faith to clear the air about a misunderstanding! You're allowed to see where they were coming from, and you're allowed to explain your POV and why you did what you did, and there's a chance for understanding, growth, and kindness! There's no one I respect more than a person capable of having those kinds of difficult/challenging discussions, because they're the hard ones. It's a lot easier to point the finger, and assume one side of a discussion or argument is correct... that one is 'good/right,' and one is 'evil/wrong' - but that's not life. There's two sides to every story, and the only way for us to grow as people is to discuss what happened, and learn from it. I'm glad I got to see this person's POV, and I'm glad I got to apologize for assuming they were doing something hurtful at the time. I couldn't have known where they were coming from, if they didn't explain it to me, though! And similarly, they may have thought I was acting out of malice, if I'd never gotten to speak on how I viewed things on my end!

I love it when people are mature enough to sit through a challenging talk, and understand the other person - it takes courage, and it takes maturity. And my ND means that I appreciate people being very direct and honest - and so I am, as well. (I actually really struggle to lie about anything...ever. It's like a physical discomfort. And deeply, deeply upsetting if I'm the one lied to, or about.) Some people are intimidated by that, I guess, but you can't understand the other person, nor what went wrong... if you aren't direct and honest! PLUS...there's always the chance that you become BETTER friends after a hard talk, because it gives you insight and understanding of one another that you lacked before! Difficult talks don't have to be a bad thing just because they're challenging, or intimidating to go into.

[dinosaursatemymom]

I'm the anon from yesterday, and I have to say in s4 canon, Nancy was helpful. Yes, it could have gone a different way, but she should get credit for moving the plot in that direction. She shouldn't have gotten the credit for finding the articles and the music theory that was Robin, but the initial hint was on Nancy.

It's still questionable how she got the information, tho, like she isn't a reporter she writes for the school paper. She shouldn't be out there investigating a murder scene. That article wouldn't have even made it into the paper, given it was about a student, and the principal would have shut it down immediately. Idk what her plan was besides being nosy.

I'm also still thinking about the s2 plot, and it just doesn't make sense to me. It's even worse that Nancy's half-baked plan worked because it framed Steve as this bad boyfriend for not wanting to help her. Like their major argument that painted Steve as uncaring about Barb was that he didn't want to get revenge on the lab and that he wanted to live his life as normally as possible. That him shutting down Nancy's idea is him surpressing her trauma, idk it makes me want to scream. He went with her to Barb's family every week, and he tried to cheer her up, to say he didn't care about the situation is just wrong. Also, why is Nancy's way of coping the right way? Steve should be able to adjust his life in a way he feels comfortable. Nancy went along because she thought it would help her. It's not like Steve pressured her into anything. He thought his way was helpful, and Nancy didn't communicate it better to him. (Like she still can't communicate properly, i.e., Jonathan or Robin in the library, who asked her if she hated her, and Nancy just ignored her and rolled her eyes.) Steve can't read her mind so he was under the impression everything was okay. I doubt he would be malicious and shut down Nancy's grief. He was concerned about Nancy's destructive ways of getting revenge because it was dangerous.

The lab was set up to be scary. They killed people for knowing too much in s1. Steve was totally reasonable for being scared. And then they made the lab into something dumb that it got infiltrated by two teenagers who even let it slip they wanted to expose them. How on earth was Nancy able to get that recorder inside? And why was Jonathan okay to go through with everything after Owens explained and even showed them the huge mess. Will and his mother went there every week, the people were trying to help his family. Jonathan had no reason to help Nancy besides getting some brownie points in her book. It was ooc for him to go against his family and put others in danger. Nor did it help the plot or Nancy. It was never discussed how incredibly stupid and selfish it was of her to go against them that way. Like she put her family and everyone involved in danger, plus the entire town. But it was framed as her being super smart and brave when it did more harm. Nancy didn't even deal with grief. There was no real discussion about Barb with Jonathan, only her admitting that she waited for Jonathan to make a move so she could get away from her boyfriend. I wish Jonathan had said something so Nancy could be able to examine her behavior.

I think what makes her plots so frustrating is that she doesn't grow as a person with them. She is still the same character since s2, who gets her little investigation plotline, which is unnecessary because the other characters are able to get there without her anyway. What is her arc? A grieving teenager who lost her best friend? It's never truly discussed in the show. Otherwise, she can use a useless weapon. She isn't the smartest person who can piece stuff together. Robin was only there for 2 seasons and yet was more helpful with her wits than Nancy. I wish we could get an arc for her next season, but I doubt it tbh.

Also this and the last anon was quite long, and I apologize. Sometimes, I get carried away. I feel like you can't really discuss this topic because people will hunt you down and call you names. I really tried liking Nancy, and I think if she were better written, I would love her because she has potential. But because her being perceived as flawless in the show (and fandom) contradicts with her actions, it makes her incredibly unlikable.

You're right, Nancy was helpful in s4 and I shouldn't discredit her for that. Although I do believe the plotline could've worked without her.

Nancy is just constantly trying to get the story no matter what, even if it could get her fired.

Yeah, I didn't like her plot in s2, it just didn't make much sense to me. I definitely agree about Jonathan. I really don't like how nearly everyone bends over backwards for Nancy in the show, even when they logically shouldn't(Robin). I think a lot of the problem with Steve is that the show is trying to make others seem in the right and Steve in the wrong while also making him likable to the audience because the duffers don't want to kill him off.

Yea, it was really weird that all of a sudden this top secret highly guarded government facility didn't search two teenagers. Especially considering the lengths we've been shown that they'll go to in order to keep confidentiality, ie Benny.

I would absolutely love to see an arc for Nancy!! Contrary to what my posts may make it seem, I think Nancy's character held a lot of potential and has been poorly written for the past few seasons. Her being written as this flawless badass who everybody loves kinda makes her seem shallow and annoying. If the show could acknowledge her faults and figure out a nice ending for her where she actually shows some growth I would absolutely love her character. I really hope to see something better for her in s5.

It's totally cool, I like long asks anyway! Feel free to shoot me an ask anytime! You're absolutely correct about not being able to dislike Nancy without being hunted down and called names [(I know you're reading this, you know who you are. Get off my page and block me and the tag, stop harassing me. Im not gonna like Nancy because you call me a misogynist or a bitch, that's gonna make me like her even less)<--not targeted towards you anon] Yes! The fact that no one holds her accountable is the reason she doesn't grow because she's framed as constantly being correct.

[doyouknowthemossinman]

okay someone asked me frfr for the RGB/Bad Suns song picks so HERE I GO ( @goosemagician i am forever in your debt !!!!!!)

i talk way too much so erm. BE WARNED, HERE BE WORDS

We Move Like the Ocean from Language and Perspective

The entire first verse of this song is literally RGB's headspace during Cut to, Greenlight, Dissolve, and Iris imo. like "I've been painting pictures in my head and falling short / Losing my direction, turn me around" THAT'S HIM AND MADRAS OK!!! HE'S SO SAD

The second verse is very much his weird not-his-death dreams. I just felt like is was kinda fitting? Maybe he's talking to Hate here? (The "didn't you used to dance" face and Hate's face in his flashback are the SAME has anyone talked about this yet)

To me the chorus is his relationship with Hero as it develops. They've got kind of a rhythm going now, they kinda know how the other works, they are getting closer emotionally hahaha, but RGB literally and figuratively can't swim. He's not as emotionally available as Hero needs him to be. Even the "anymore" on the end of that line implies that he has bonded with people like that in the past (at least romantically if i'm interpreting light entertainment as canon? it's canon right??) but he can't for Hero. Yet.

Even in my Dreams, I Can't Win from Disappear Here

Honestly this entire song is just him and I can SEE a little animatic in my head but I'll try to explain

The first verse feels like what his nights are like without a hero to guide, those inbetweens when he has to find the gall to get back up to the Inbetween (ha) and find another keyframe.

The pre-chorus and chorus is just his cycle of finding heroes and failing time and time again. rip.

The bridge feels like him getting frustrated and overwhelmed at his not-death nightmares and trying to explain them to Hero and this is all he comes up with lol. It's not even entirely accurate but I think he would at least try and explain them to her eventually.

Away We Go from Mystic Truth

honestly this one's kind of just an adventuring song!! Maybe cutting between his time with Magnus and some of the heroes? or just Hero? It feels simple to me and I kinda just picked it to have one song from each album lmao. BUT IT ALSO APPLIES I would never disrespect Mystic Truth like that

Life Was Easier When I Only Cared About Me from Apocalypse Whenever

This is basically "determined little ball of sunshine worms her way into a monster's non-existent heart" the song. Like the Iris through Flood era. Like "how does this little girl keep violently pulling her forcefully-adopted dad out of his depression"

First verse is sad dad!!!! I know "My thoughts came flooding in / I started to drown" relates to the title of Flood and he has come close to being drowned like twice, but it's more like that vaguely suicidal moment he has after Madras pushes him backward??? BABE ARE U OKAY

"Lit my own fuse, I could not blow it out / I was strapped to a rocket aimed right at the ground" is definitely one of their arguments/genuine heartbreaking fights but it'S OK THEY STILL LOVE EACH OTHER

AND THE CHORUS OH MY GOD. He realizes how much Hero really means to him and is just SO mad about it. Okay not mad but like!! He wasn't supposed to get attached and now here he is!!!! Also IF at the end of the story RGB turns back into a human (that's a theory people have right) "I had no reason to breathe / Until you knocked the wind out of me" IS GOING TO BE SO LITERAL OH MY GODDDD (I don't personally think that's where we're going but it would be sooooo niceeee andmy songs would work so well for thaaat)

Anyway!!! Thank you for making it to the end!! As a prize you get more song recs because GOD he literally is just Bad Suns to me

Okay wait actually, bonus Thoughts because i'm listening to L&P again, Salt is like if he ever got a weird dysphoria after becoming a monster??? IF THAT EVEN HAPPENED??? Mirror mention and my brain went insane sorry. "These memories are nothing to me, just salt" mans literally SOLD his so like. IT'S RELEVANT. idk please go listen to Salt it's so trans

Most of Language and Perspective (the album not just the song) is pretty relevant to him but that may just be my bias getting in the way lol. Cardiac Arrest, Dancing on Quicksand, and Salt would be my number ones but I'm so for real please go listen to the whole album

Disappear Here also has bangers but so far the only other song I can relate to this mess of a man is Defeated.

One Magic Moment is him and Hero for sureee but it's just a vibe, other than the first lines i don't have any deeper thoughts lol. Love By Mistake is also him idk.

Unstable is his denial song i think <3 babes is not okay

Most of Apocalypse Whenever is so happy in a genuine way, while TV boy here is happy in a fake way. Maybe it'll apply more by the end of the story but for now nothing really fits. EXCEPT FOR ELECTRIC CIRCUS AAAAHHH??? hOW COULD I FORGET. "Crushed by a tidal wave of lies an shame" OKAY GIRL. anyway never thought i'd tell you that the album with a PVRIS feature is too happy but here we are

The Infinite Joy EP is SO GOOD guys. Living or Dying is vaguely RGB-vibey? Maybe Astral Plans as well but it's very loose.

OK FOR REAL GO FORTH AND BECOME BAD SUNS FANS

[queencherryberry]

So I had wrote this like back in late January early February. It’s unfinished. I want to thank @sunnyfleur23 for giving me the courage and motivation to post it. It’s my first fic ever.

Just encase, I’ll throw on an 18+ warning. And so people can peer into my insight for the story; Drew’s face looks like this:

And the rest of him looks like this:

Setting is like a midevil Scotland.

Also, story is like a semi-self insert. I tried writing it in a different pov. Was written on my phone.

Faith hit the Scotsman in the chest in frustration.

"Im....I'm sorry. Im....it's just you frustrate me. What am I to you? You picked me off the street when my parents kicked me out. You gave me shelter and kept me hidden from your parents for 3 years. Now your telling me that you're betrothed? When were you going to tell me? Or was your plan to kick me out when she found out? Answer me!"

"Lass, calm down. I only agreed to marry her to keep this farm. Other than that I dont..." drew said before being cut off by a hard slap to the face. He clenched his jaw. "Now look here lass, someone else already has my attention and whether or not she realizes it, I'm not letting her go." He said turning his head back in Faith's direction. Anger and something else dark settled in his face and his blue eyes.

Faith realized that as soon as her hand connected with his cheek she screwed up. Her face dropped from anger to panic. She made eye contact with him and saw the look in the giant man's eyes. "I'm....I'm sorry drew. I didn't mean it...I was just...mmmmh...." she was cut off when drew grabbed her face roughly and kissed her aggressively. Without resisting she melted into the kiss. It was needy, sloppy, and lit a fire inside her. Her feelings for the Scotsman came rushing forward. She wrapped her arms around his neck melting into the kiss.

Drew pressed himself closer to her tiny frame. He then lifted her off the ground and felt her legs wrap around his torso. He started kissing her harder and headed straight to his room. When he finally broke the kiss for air he waisted no time in throwing her on his bed and taking his shirt off. He then climbed up her body and went to work at her neck. He left love bites and nipped at her exposed neck. He growled against her neck when she lightly dug her nails into his shoulders. He lowered his growing crotch between her legs.

Was this cheating? Probably. But Drew didn't really care since the other woman he was betrothed to he didn't really love. This was his one shot with Faith and he didn't want to blow it. Her tiny frame fit perfectly against his large one. He skimmed his fingers down her leg till he reached just right before her knee. He roughly grabbed her leg but carefully picked it up and set it around his waist.

"Tell me lass, why you're so jealous all of a sudden? You can't stand me, you argue over everything and you're about to get some sense rocked into you one way or another. Now lay still.... or are you going to put a fight?" He said sitting up on his knees still holding her leg. His other hand worked on freeing his slacks.

Faith raised herself on her elbows to look him in the face. It was true she did have feelings for the Scotsman but wasn't going to confess them to him. She just wanted tear him to shreds at the moment. "Fuck you!" She screamed at him before lunging at him and locking lips with him again. She hungrily kissed him choosing fighting for control in this argument. If you even wanted to call it that at this point. She herself untied the strings of her top and let it fall to her shoulders. She intertwined her fingers in his long dark brown hair. She greedily bit his bottom lip wanting in. He wouldn't let her though. He moved his hands up to her hips then up her arms to finish taking off her shirt. He wanted her to know that he was the one in control. He broke from the kiss again, "So it's a fight you're looking for lass...." he slid a hand up her body and lightly grabbed her throat and smirked. "I'll show you a fight then but I guarantee I'll win. But I will say, not very wise of you to wear just a shirt today." He licked his bottom lip and applied a little more pressure into his grip.

She gasped when his hand enclosed around her neck. She settled back on her heels. She suddenly had become aware of her exposed body to him. She went to go cover herself but he stopped her. "We're this far darling, do you want to continue or stop?" Drew asked. He let his grip go and rested his hand on her collar bone. He ran his thumb over it. He searched her face for an answer.

[the1975attheirverybest]

Just a few weeks ago deuxmoi were pushing the narrative that one of his exes were at his show and that they had an argument afterwards. Now this girl: no one knows who she is but someone came up with a name and the poor girl deactivated. Deuxmoi said she was a fan but someone convinced everyone that she's not. I don't know and I don't care but it's frustrating because I'd hate it if I was Matty or the girl. It's disrespectful. If people know the girls are likely just flings, why do they care so much? Not that it would be okay to harass a girlfriend but it's even stupider to care so much about a fling. Leave them alone (not @ anyone here, I'm just ranting. I'm against the gossip sites and people who aren't even fans being incredibly disrespectful)

Matty said in one of the australian shows that he usually doesn't comment on rumors about him and he lets people have their fun and I'm honestly starting to think it was a bit directed at these people. It has gotten out of hand lately. It's cool to hate Matty and it's cool to ignore that he's a human. Like you said, people in the fandom love Matty and we care about his music/art, his sobriety and happiness. It's always been like this. This whole appearing on gossip pages and having blind items constantly posted is not coming from within the fandom. And it's always shit that's written in a way that makes him look kinda bad? His reputation has already been tarnished on twitter, you can't even say you like Matty Healy without being cancelled, now that people have turned against him they suddenly find him having sex with consenting adults "gross". Funny that the internet didn't think it was gross a few months ago when they went viral on social media. Seriously, I just wish people would leave him alone and the gossip sites can burn in hell

Just let my guy fuck in peace ffs lmao

I admire him for not letting this stuff get to him and I'm so glad he's been looking pretty, happy and so soft lately 🥺 but I'm ready to fight all these people

Oh, yeah, you are absolutely right! I think these gossip sites operate the way that tabloid magazines used to (and to an extent kind of still do) in the 90s and shit. Basically, what happens is, they see a celebrity rise to fame, and they capitalize on it. Like you said, everyone was on the band a few months ago cuz thanks tiktok. Then, enough out of context Matty stuff was shared ok tiktok that people flipped and the new trend is to hate him now. So, in order to push their stuff out and gain clicks, these sites think “oh, so hating Matty is in now. Let’s post a bunch of stuff that confirms this bias. We get people going about it!”

And, like I said a couple of days ago, I know that some girlie on tiktok is friends with someone who organized the msg after party stuff etc. this girl was NOT a fan before hand. But she saw an opportunity. Her friend is connected to the 1975 and the 1975 are a big deal rn so she jumped on it. Knew where they’d be, took pics with them, etc. it’s all really gross and it really might have slowly built up and gotten to Matty. Hence his deactivation and stuff. Sadly, we can’t stop it. I’ve seen it happen with other celebs I liked. Once the non-fans start chiming it, shit gets out of hand.

He’s being smart about it with disengaging from social media. And at least the boys are all together and have each other to lean on for support. It’s be harder if it was just one of them doing it all alone. Bless them all 🥹 WE WILL PROTECT THEM AT ALL COSTS!!!

[pillowaya]

Playing Cupid

"Illu," chanted Hisoka, shuffling his cards. The night view and the undying casino lights didn't seem to interest him as much as whatever he was about to say, Illumi figured and tilted his head in response. "Yeah?"

"You remember Gon, right? The kid who broke your arm in the hunter exam" He started, and Illumi huffed in disinterest. "The kid who went as far as training to pass the goddamn testing gate" he replied, gritting his teeth. "Just to get Kill away with him. You know I hate him"

Hisoka smiled, amusement playing on his lips. "That one, yes. I saw something very interesting this morning" 

As much as Illumi knew Hisoka yearned to fight Gon at his full power and as much as he respected it, he grunted. Annoyance sparked in his veins right at the image of Killua having so much fun with such a person, it was way too disgusting, he was a Zoldyck. And Zoldyck's have no business hanging around with anyone. "Hopefully a pleasant surprise. He died?"

Hisoka shook his index, sighing in dismay. "We went over this more than once, babe. If Gon ever dies, I'll be the one to kill him after a long, entertaining battle. But that's not about it. I saw him and Killua fighting"

Illumi raised an eyebrow. "It was the green bastard's fault, wasn't it?" 

"Even better," Hisoka giggled before mumbling in sly realization. "My bad, even worse, they both walked away with tears in their eyes. I don't think even you saw Killua cry before, am I right?"

Illumi smashed his cocktail on the counter with so much force it shattered, the cold liquid seeping slowly into the ground.

"I'll kill him. And if you try to stop me, I'll kill you. Off my way"

Hisoka's golden eyes hooded dangerously, a joker card between his pointed nails. "Careful now, babe. Your skull might as well be split into two before you try. Don't wanna fight me just yet, do you?"

Illumi, reeking bloodlust, held a needle at Hisoka's neck, eyes wide and emotionless. "What do you plan on doing with this information anyways?"

"Playing cupid for a day, I guess" he shrugged, pushing the needle away. "This assassin mode doesn't fit you. You look better with a resting bitch face"

The black haired sighed even louder this time. "Well surprise, I'm literally an assassin"

"Who kills people with a resting bitch face"

"I hate you"

Hisoka smiled. "I love you too"

"Now tell me your plan" Illumi flipped his hair and looked away, almost disappointed that he broke his drink. Hisoka, who ordered another Margherita just in case, placed it in front of Illumi and proceeded with his speech. "I'll just try to help them make up though they both hate me. Killua is an irreplaceable factor in Gon's growth and a potential future enemy; therefore I don't want them to lose their relationship just yet"

---

It wasn't a fight.

It was more of an argument– That, well, could've led to a fight.

It was one of the first times Killua walked alone, clueless, with no direction to go. He had to clear his mind first. He loved Gon, gosh he loved him so much. But, no matter how much he tried to overlook it, the other was selfish at times.

They were both kids, yet, while Gon had his own ambition to follow, Killua had none. Gon would sacrifice anything to reach his dream and Killua would sacrifice anything to reach Gon who seemed to drift away day by day. And that hurt. It didn't feel like a relationship, nor like a friendship, it just hurt.

He forgot how it started, the only part he remembered was when he shouted that he was tired of it, tired of Gon throwing himself to whatever situation that can destroy him while he cleans his mess everytime. A way more emotional, frustrated, and wrong way to ask him if he was okay, if he needed assistance, if he possibly could share more of what's going on in his mind.

Gon defended himself in his own way. To him, if Killua was done, then he could just walk away and leave him be. If his actions annoyed him this much, then he could just find another friend. That was Gon's way of telling Killua to worry less about things but it sounded like a rejection, since Gon was supposed to know Killua didn't have any friends other than him.

It was a shared mistake, a lack of communication. Killua climbed a tree and decided to sleep there, now too tired to think of anything at all. He didn't know if they'd make up. He was way too petty to apologize and so was Gon.

"Yo, Kill" 

In less than a second, he jolted from his seat, more than ready to murder. Nails at the stranger's neck, it took him a short moment to realize it was a familiar red haired joker, traced under the moonlight. "Calm down, I'm all good intentions for now"

"Why are you here?" snapped Killua, taking a safe distance. "And don't call me Kill. I absolutely hate that nickname"

"Alrighty" Chuckled Hisoka, bending to mumble in Killua's ear. "I have a message from Gon. He told you to meet him at the city center, Peijin hotel at 2 am. You know, he didn't want to tell you himself because remember, you guys are mad at each other"

Killua squinted his eyes in suspicion. "So he told you?" glaring daggers at Hisoka, he continued, confused. "You, out of everyone?"

Hisoka didn't elaborate and disappeared between the trees.

"Maybe I have to go," Contemplated Killua, eying his phone. 1:30 am. "Maybe it's a chance to make this up. That idiot can't even wait until the next day, can he?"

It reached 2 am sooner than he thought, sitting on a bench as people tirelessly walked in and out of the hotel. It took a minute before a familiar dark haired boy appeared in the back of the crowd. Killua's chest tightened in an unknown, painful feeling.

He cleared his throat as Gon sat wordlessly next to him. He tried to peek at his face, there was no visible emotion on it. His large brown eyes were clear and staring right ahead, both his hands curled up on his knees. "Why did you want to meet me, Killua?"

"Huh? Weren't you the one who wanted to meet me?" he slowly acknowledged the trap they fell in, gritting his teeth at the realization that Hisoka made it- he shouldn't have believed him in the first place, but the name of Gon alone made him fall off guard. "Haaaah? Damned Hisoka! I'm leaving!" in a slightly panicked tone, he stood up and attempted to leave, until a familiar soft voice spoke from behind him.

"After thinking of your words thoroughly," Gon sniffed, his voice holding more and more emotions than before. "I think I'm indeed selfish. I must indeed tell you more about my goals from things and how I plan to do them"

Killua's lips parted in shock.

Gon was the most stubborn, the most petty person he knew.

Gon, admitting a fault, instead of denying it, instead of acting like he never did anything. Killua was really shocked.

"I was in the wrong, Killua" Gon smiled innocently, staring at his boots, as if the ground was the most interesting thing in the world. It took courage to raise his head, to look at Killua's beautiful blue eyes without breaking down. For a reason? For no reason? He himself didn't know, he just knew that he made a mistake and had to fix it. "I promise to be better for you, Killua, because I love you"

"Don't say things like these, idiot" Mumbled Killua, looking away to hide his red face. "It's embarrassing"

"I think that means you appreciate what I say," Gon smiled wider. He knew Killua very well. He knew that his cheeks were flushed and his lips were pouty like everytime he accidentally said something too affectionate, and he continued, joy brightening within him. "I can't stay mad at you forever, and I believe you can't, too. Maybe we should talk about it better next time"

A hand pushed his head up, his eyes directly facing deep blue ones. Killua leaned down to plant a soft kiss on his lips and walked away right after.

"I think this resumes it for now, Gon" he replied nonchalantly, his hands in his pockets yet again as if nothing happened. "Have you ever stayed in this hotel before? Or should we search for a better one? It looks like it's about to rain"

Gon, the tips of his ears in dark pink, grinning shyly, shook his head. "Never tried this one, but there's a better one few blocks away from here"

"Let's go then" Killua hid a small smile, and the two boys walked side by side.

"See? It actually worked" Hisoka gasped, dramatically. "I didn't even make a complexe plan"

Illumi rolled his eyes to heaven. 

"It's about to rain for real. Let's get a hotel room too" he suggested, gracefully jumping off the rooftop they spied on the boys from. "I'll just act like I didn't see anything. Do you have any money on you?"

"I pickpocketed this from an old man earlier. I think it's enough for both of us" Hisoka sighed, playing with a wallet on his finger. "Remind me why I'm married to someone who won't even appreciate my effort to make his little brother happy"

"Thank you" Illumi muttered under his breath.

"What did you say?" Teased Hisoka, jumping after his husband. "I didn't hear you~"

"Shut up"

[storytimewithnova]

Ink Enigma: The Vanishing of Shoanna Oikawa

Summary: "Ink Enigma: The Vanishing of Shoanna Oikawa" is a gripping narrative that unfolds in two parallel worlds. Shoanna, a high school student who mysteriously disappears, finds herself in the eerie and enigmatic Joey Drew Studios, a place filled with ink magic and animated characters. As she navigates this strange realm, she discovers her unique abilities and forms an unlikely alliance with the studio's denizens.

Simultaneously, her brother Tooru and a coalition of volleyball teams embark on a mission to locate Shoanna, connecting her disappearance to the unsettling studio. With supernatural forces, emotional depth, and a web of secrets, the story promises an enthralling journey filled with suspense and mystery as these two narrative threads interweave in their quest to uncover the truth and reunite Shoanna with her family.

Shoanna Oikawa a bright smart funny girl who people would normally describe as a sunshine had vanished without a trace, leaving the detectives bewildered. All they had found was a peculiar ink puddle, the only clue to her whereabouts. It was a baffling case that defied explanation.

Shoanna's journey began the day she found herself transported to what was once Joey Drew Studios, now an eerie, derelict place. The studio had a dark history, known for the creation of twisted cartoon characters brought to life through ink magic.

Within the decaying studio, Shoanna encountered a strange cast of characters. There was the benevolent Bendy, a reformed version of the menacing ink demon. Corrupted Alice Angel, who teetered on the edge of madness but retained a glimmer of her original self, proved to be an enigmatic presence. Then, there was Boris, a loyal friend who had been both corrupted and redeemed.

As Shoanna navigated this ink-soaked nightmare, she soon realized that she held the key to uncovering the truth behind the studio's dark past. The ink puddle that had once seemed so insignificant now appeared to be the linchpin in her quest to solve the mystery.

Meanwhile, outside the studio, Back in the real world back in the world of high school the volleyball Tournament season was in full swing.We join a bunch of volleyball addicts show off but well all but one Teenage boy that was normally so prideful and Boasting at any opportunity he got to show he was the best setter wasn't doing so well infact he was just mopping around and gave up on volleyball and just watched his team from the bench his grades dipped massively you see Tooru was not only the captain of the Aoba Johsai volleyball team, but his sister, Shoanna, managed the Shiratorizawa volleyball team. The tension was palpable as the teams gathered for a match against each other, An Tension only heightened by the fact that Shoanna had gone missing.

The match hadn't even started yet and as the teams assembled, and coach was about to give them their pre_game peptalk that is when all hell broke loss when Shiratorizawa's setter Shirabu Kenjiro, known for his hot-headed nature, couldn't hold back his frustration any longer for their missing manager and needed answers.

"Where's Shoanna?" he demanded, directing his question toward Tooru. "She should be here, managing our team. This is unacceptable!"

Tooru bristled at the accusation. "Don't you think I'm worried too? Don't you think we are all worried about her where abouts?

He said calmly but The argument between Shirabu and him escalated, with other team members and teams getting involved, taking sides, and casting blame. The match between Shiratorizawa and AobaJohsai was on the brink of being canceled due to the heated exchange.

In the midst of the turmoil, Tooru's revelation added a new layer of shock and complexity. "Have any of you heard about the girl who went missing mysteriously, leaving nothing behind nothing but an inky puddle?" he asked, his voice heavy with emotion.

The room fell silent as players from both teams if not all the teams exchanged puzzled glances. Eventually, they nodded in acknowledgment.

Tooru continued, "That girl was my sister. She was also Kunimi's girlfriend. So, I have every right to leave this match I have every god damn right to sit here and not participate don't come up to me with false accusations and then pining the Blame on my baby sister you hot-headed jerk."

The revelation hit everyone like a thunderbolt. Shock and guilt rippled through the room it hit Shirabu worse. Tooru's decision to leave the match was met with silence and understanding. The match, in that moment, became insignificant compared to the painful truth they had just discovered.

Back with shoanna at the studio she ventured ferther into the studio to an area that looks like a cell a prison almost she wondered what it was hold till she saw

Shoanna:Bendy?!

Bendying picks up a toy train

Shoanna: oh my god you're real this is amazing

Bendy backs away slowly

Shoanna: it's okay it's okay i won't hurt you I promise bendy i won't hurt you see I'm your friend

She holds out her hand for him to take and gestures him to take it which he happily did as she keeps reassuring Bendy she won't hurt him a glow from her hand happens and shocks him doing exactly what she promised she wouldn't do and hurt him

Shoanna: bendy dear i am sorry i didn't know that would happen i promise I'm so so sorry Bendy

Bendy runs away visably upset Shoanna clearly not liking what she did to her favourite childhood cartoon character she was angry with herself venom clewrly laced her voice as she spoke

Shoanna: Dammit Sho what's happening to you?

She carried on her way looking for her next local in the studio apart of her hoping to run into bendy again to make it up to him

Back with the volleyball teams they wanted to hear the whole story from Tooru they even asked if he had any thoughts where Shoanna could be to which he replied one a place me and Imōto use to love alot it was owned by our grandfather but i hope she isn't there that place is dangrous it is basically a sink hole waiting to collapse in on itself

Kuroo: may i ask where this place is

Everyone also wanting to know

Tooru: my grandfather's studio Joey Drew Studios

Everyone fell silent they say silence is deafening well you can basically hear a pin drop with how silent it was Tooru spoke again

Tooru: like i said i hope she is not and before you ask what i am basing this theory on like i said that place was like Disneyland to us because we couldn't afford to actually go to disney and we loved hanging out with bendy alice angel and boris

The wolf we watched as grandfather made this cartoon friends come to life

The oikawa family was poor not complete to the point they were homeless but they had a mountain of debts they Audrey Oikawa's husband left her with before moving on to his second family so Audrey couldn't give her kids much she couldn't give them whar normal kids have her father Joey Drew did the best he could to help but letting the kids come to his studio and for Tooru and Shoanna that was their normal thar was their life as everyone listened to Tooru saddness clearly on everyone's face Shirabu was sat in the corner listening with a pang of guilt truth be told he had a crush on Shoanna yes it hurts learning she has a boyfriend it hurts more she is a missing person and the way she disappeared

Back with shoanna she made it to her next local which looke like a city she looks around

Shoanna: what in the world how big is this place huh city of broken dreams that reassuring

She said sarcastically she look around again then her eyes landed on bendy she sighed in Relief knowing he was okay to catxh bendy's attention she said

Shoanna: oh bendy it's you where did you come from you know what never mind that look i am sorry about earlier

As shoanna was talking bendy wiped his tears but showed he was listening

Shoanna: i really didn't mean to hurt you and i don't think you want to hurt me do you right Dear

Bendy shook his head no

Shonanna: good lets be friends then what do say you and me

Bendy gave her a thumbs up

Shoanna: Awesome maybe you can help me I'm looking for the old gent building

Bendy started waving his arms around as to indicate that was a bad idea and it's not safe there

He covers his eyes like he was crying again

Shoanna:what's wrong hey bendy what is it, is it a bad place? Hey it's okay it's okay i won't let anything happen to you we'll go one step st a time okay just you and me let's see what we can find

Bendy nods seemingly trusting Shoanna like he recognises her in some way and he leads the way for her to follow him

Back with Tooru and the other teams they were still sat there stunned and processing what they had heard as Tooru's revelation settled in, the teams began to discuss a plan to find Shoanna. They knew they couldn't ignore the connection to Joey Drew Studios. Kuroo, the captain of Nekoma, suggested pooling their resources to investigate the studio together. This idea received unanimous agreement.

Tooru, overwhelmed by guilt and worry, nodded in gratitude. "Thank you, everyone. We have to find her. That studio is not a place for a girl like my sister to be alone."

As the teams left the gym, they began coordinating their efforts. Messages were sent, and soon, a group of volleyball players, coaches, and friends assembled at the entrance of Joey Drew Studios. They faced a daunting task, with the abandoned studio casting eerie shadows under the moonlight.

Back in the studio, Shoanna's search for Bendy led her deeper into the inky labyrinth. She encountered strange, ink-covered walls that seemed to pulse with a life of their own. The atmosphere grew more ominous, and Shoanna's heart raced. She knew that unraveling the studio's secrets would not be easy.

Suddenly, she heard a faint whimper in the distance. Following the sound, Shoanna stumbled upon a Boris she remember it is the one thst normally hangs with corrupted Alice, he was her loyal but uncorrupted friend but as alice has shown time and time again she is willing to kill a boris and that was she was going to do with this one till Shoanna stopped her saying she will take him Boris heard Shoanna but he was to scared He was huddled in a corner, trembling. It was clear that he was terrified of something and not just Alice Angel

Shoanna approached Boris carefully, speaking in soothing tones. "Boris, it's okay. I won't hurt you. I'm here to help."

Boris hesitated but then seemed to recognize that Shoanna was different from the other creatures in the studio. He cautiously extended a hand to her, and as she touched him, a warm, comforting glow surrounded them. This time, there was no pain, only a reassuring light.

Tears welled up in Shoanna's eyes as she realized the power she possessed could be used for good within this bizarre ink-soaked world. She vowed to help Boris and find a way to restore him to his true self.

Back at the entrance of the studio, the volleyball teams and their supporters, armed with flashlights and determination, ventured inside. The inky darkness of the studio seemed to swallow them as they delved deeper into the heart of the mystery. Their journey had only just begun, but their hope for finding Shoanna burned brightly they entered a room that says heavens toy box they opened a box as instructed it was filled with bacon soup they suddenly heard a voice

??: i wouldn't drink to much of that if i were you it help patch you up but the after taste it's not so good

Osamu backed aways

??: easy now I'm not going to hurt you, you look like you need some help

Osamu: don't touch us what are you what is this horrible place

??:yeah i remember my first day down here i know it's scary you guys are lucky That machine could have turned you into a searcher

Kuroo: you mean that thing that attacked us

??: no that's a piper and his part of a gang so be careful

Yamaguchi: i don't understand any of this it hurts why an i even here

Kageyama: I can't think why am i here too

Shirabu: it hurts

??: you will all catch on pretty quickly if you can stay alive lesson one Searchers don't have legs and they tend to swarm look i am just saying it is not good to say in one place for too long keep moving and stay close to the shadows take my advice head to the upper levels it's safer there

Kenma: can we come with you?

??: you can't I'm sorry i have a wolf he doesn't care for stangers

Bokuto: A A wolf Agasshi did i hear thst right

Akaashi: yes bokuto san

??: like i said you'll catch on good luck i hope we meet again

While they were talking Tooru zoned out trying to Visualized a studio as it used to be as he remembered it As the voice continued to speak it suddenly connected with him that he finally spoke up

Tooru: hello Auntie Alison

Alison heard that Somewhere something in here remembered something she said

Alison: hello Tooru dear wait just you where is Shoanna

Tooru: that is why i am here auntie she went missing all that was left was an ink puddle

Alison: oh no dear you maybe to late

Everyone: huh?

Tooru: no no no it stopped when grandad died it wouldn't start again shouldn't start again

Everyone looked confused

Alison: dear i have to go now i can gaurd you and your friends from here but i can't do much out me and your uncle tom will see you soon

Inside the ink-soaked labyrinth of Joey Drew Studios, Shoanna and Boris formed an unlikely bond. With Shoanna's newfound abilities, she discovered that she could not only heal but also purify the corrupted characters within the studio. Her connection with Boris deepened, and he began to trust her more as he slowly regained his true form, free from the darkness that had plagued him.

As they delved deeper into the studio, they uncovered more clues about the history of the place. Shoanna learned about the studio's creator, her own grandfather, Joey Drew, and his obsession with bringing his animated characters to life using ink magic. She realized that her family's history was intertwined with the eerie happenings of the studio, and the ink magic played a significant role.

Meanwhile, the group of volleyball teams and their supporters ventured further into the studio, following the cryptic advice they had received. The upper levels appeared to be less dangerous, and they hoped to find clues about Shoanna's whereabouts there. They stumbled upon more peculiar ink creatures, each with its own unsettling story.

Tooru's conversation with Aunt Alison had sparked curiosity and concern. What did she mean by "it shouldn't start again"? Tooru and the others began to piece together more of the studio's dark history and its connection to their family. They realized that there was something ominous lurking within the studio, something that must not be awakened.

As they navigated the studio's shadowy corridors, the groups moved closer to each other's paths. Shoanna, Boris, and the volleyball teams were on a collision course, with the studio's secrets and the truth about Shoanna's disappearance hanging in the balance.

The suspense continued to build as the two narrative threads intertwined, each character facing their own challenges, fears, and revelations, all leading them closer to a climactic confrontation with the ink magic and the enigmatic forces that bound the studio's past to the present.

As Shoanna and Boris ventured deeper into the twisted corridors of Joey Drew Studios, they knew they were approaching the heart of the mystery. The ominous atmosphere was thick with tension and the echoing sounds of ink-laden whispers. Suddenly, around a dark, ink-drenched corner, they came face to face with a towering, nightmarish figure.

It was Bendy, but not the benign version she had previously encountered. This was the demonic incarnation, a grotesque fusion of ink and malevolence. His eyes glowed with a sinister light, and his grinning face appeared more menacing than ever. The corrupted Bendy loomed over Shoanna and Boris, and a sense of dread washed over them.

Shoanna's heart raced as she realized that confronting this monstrous being was inevitable. With determination in her eyes, she stepped forward, raising her hand to invoke her unique power. A radiant light surrounded her, forming a protective barrier. She knew she couldn't let the demon Bendy harm her or Boris.

The battle between light and darkness raged within the studio's ink-soaked chambers. Shoanna's power clashed with the malevolence of the ink demon. It was a perilous dance of energies, and the outcome hung in the balance.

As the confrontation reached its climax, Shoanna's sheer willpower, the bond she shared with Boris, and her connection to the studio's history tipped the scales. The demonic Bendy let out an ear-piercing shriek before dissipating into a flurry of inky tendrils, slowly dissolving into the abyss.

Breathing heavily and victorious, Shoanna turned to Boris, who was now fully restored to his original form, free from the ink's corruption. They exchanged grateful glances, understanding that they had conquered one of the studio's malevolent forces together.

With this victory, Shoanna's journey to uncover the truth about her family's connection to the studio and her own unique abilities continued. But they had one more goal in mind - to reunite Shoanna with her brother and the volleyball teams who were searching for her within this mysterious world.

As the two narrative threads converged, the characters pressed forward, their determination unwavering. The secret of Joey Drew Studios, the powers of ink magic, and the fate of Shoanna were intertwined in this enigmatic and suspenseful narrative.

(Ending)

The group of volleyball teams, having followed the cryptic guidance through the upper levels of the studio, arrived at the scene just in time to witness Shoanna's victory over the demon Bendy. They marveled at the magical light that surrounded her and Boris. Their shock and awe were palpable.

Tooru rushed to his sister, tears of relief streaming down his face. Shoanna and Boris, now free from the demon's curse, were finally reunited with her brother and friends. It was an emotional and heartwarming moment.

With the demon Bendy defeated and the family reunited, the studio seemed to shudder, as if it were releasing the hold of the malevolent forces within. The studio, which had once been a place of ink magic and sinister secrets, began to show signs of transformation.

As the inky darkness slowly receded, it revealed the original, colorful world that Joey Drew Studios had once been. It was a place of creativity and joy, as it was meant to be. The characters within the studio also began to transform into their more benevolent forms.

The mystery of the studio was not completely unraveled, but it seemed that the darkness had been pushed back, for now. The characters and the Oikawa siblings, along with the volleyball teams, stepped out of the studio and into the welcoming light of day.

The story of "Ink Enigma: The Vanishing of Shoanna Oikawa" ended with a sense of hope and renewal. The studio, once a place of nightmares, now had a chance to become a place of dreams and creativity, and the Oikawa family was finally whole again. The bond between the characters and the real world had been strengthened, and the mysteries of the studio would continue to be explored in the future.

[tangledbea]

Hey, I was wondering if u can answer some of these questions. I think u have an lot of good points, and think u would be good to ask about some of these questions. 1. How to do u keep characters in, well character. The next question goes very heavily into the next one. 2. How do u analyzed characters. Note I kind of envy u when it comes to this cause when u point something out it just clicks in my head. And I want to be able to do that, so I can grow those characters in the right direction.

That's all for now have a good day.

Oh, goodness! Thank you for these questions! I'm going to admit that neither of these things is always easy, especially when I'm not particularly a fan of the character. Because in both these cases, the thing you have to do is get into their heads and understand them.

To keep a character in character, you have to make sure that you can hear them saying the dialogue you're writing for them. If you can't hear it in their voice, or if you can, but it doesn't sound like something they'd say, then the line of dialogue needs to be edited to sound like them. Try looking at the situation the story presents from their point of view. Based on their canonical reactions to similar situations, how would they react to this one? Sometimes, you have to go down the line several steps removed to find even a glimmer of something slightly similar, but then you build on it.

For example: we know how Eugene would react if Rapunzel was kidnapped. He did it in the movie. He'd race to her rescue and do everything in his power - including give up his own life - to assure her freedom.

But let's say, instead, that Rapunzel went to an event of some sort and was gone longer than he anticipated. He trusts her, so at first he'd probably assume everything was fine. She's a friendly person, maybe she stayed late talking to someone she'd connected with, or gotten distracted by something at or after the event. She would have to be really late before he'd start to get worried, but even then, he'd hold off sending out a rescue, because he trusts her and he doesn't want to impede her freedom. Her freedom is everything to him.

What often trips people up when writing a story is that they go into it saying, "I want these things to happen," but it's not necessarily in character for things to go the way they intended, at which point they can simply sense that something is amiss without being able to put their finger on it. I've had times when I'm writing and the story starts to go completely off-track because the characters don't react to the situation the way I anticipated. It's frustrating. XD

As you said, writing an analysis is interconnected with this. But not only do you need to understand a character inside and out - their motivation, their personality, their flaws and traumas - you also need to know (or be able to reference) their entire canon. Forgetting something has the potential to throw the entire argument out the window. You need to be able to detach your interpretation from the facts. There are times I'm able to defend a character I'm not fond of, because despite that lack of fondness, I know the facts.

The key is thoughtfulness and patience. Give yourself time to think about what it is you're trying to say, either in story or analytical form. Often times, when I have an ask that requires an analysis (or if I want to write an analysis as my reply), I just let it sit and I think about it before I start writing. If it helps, draw yourself a flowchart or other diagram to organize your thoughts. With practice, it gets easier, just like any skill.

I hope this helps!

[rolling-restart]

Hellooooo I'm back ☂️(finally lol) and I read the latest chapter of desecration on a long bus trip the other day and did take some unhinged notes in my notes app that I will now try to put together into English sentences hehe. I hope you're doing good:)

Look, first of all, you know how much I adore that work as a whole and every chapter is fascinating to me in different ways. Well, I don't always find time and above all, the energy to spam your inbox lately but I will do that with ch23 now :)

Let's talk about the absolute blast of a phone call between Nico and Seb. I laughed .-. no, I in fact, giggled at this scene - not because I'm weird (ok maybe I am) but because it just makes so much sense. This built up tension, Seb being Seb. My notes just say;

I didn’t scream at him. It was just…” “Just what?” -> FACEPALM.

You sent him like that, without informing him fully when he needed it the most-” “Now don’t you fucking dare twist it. I didn’t tell him because I respected George’s privacy.” -> FACEPALM AGAIN!! Seb is way too busy TRYING to do everything right for fucking everyone involved, he doesn't even get what he's really doing, does he? "He doesn’t need public humiliation" SCOFF, YES, Sure.

I love that. It's so *character have flaws* but in a *I am trying my best* way I can't describe. I totally went into this scene expecting them to have a bit of an argument of course and I really like your way of telling it.

He felt somehow unresponsive against the baggage Nico just casually decided to spill over except for the burning shame rising in his chest.

I loveeee this part so much. He doesn't want to burden- He doesn't want to breach privacy- He doesn't want to hurt- He wants to do this right RIGHT. Maybe it's overcompensating for the things he's said and done in the past, maybe it's just who he is in general.

He didn’t know what he expected and he knew he was supposed to feel relieved. He couldn’t dive into the past because it was just too shameful to remember things he spent so long justifying. 

HM YES YES YES. You sure know how to get your characters to think. UHHH. Your sentences always hit. Sure, he's got flaws and maybe he does realise now he's selfish but aren't we all? It's so raw and I think that's why I'm always at the edge of my seat for this story. Everyone's feelings are so valid and you could spend a lot of time looking at things from different perspectives here which I adore a lot.

SECOND OF ALL, Mick and Daniel conversation - very nice indeed. The frustration that is building up in Mick is so tangible, I was almost getting into the same mood even though I know the whole picture with George and Daniel and Toto.

And Daniel worries about George again of course, ahh.

My notes only stated this if I'm being honest here:

“That’s what you all keep saying and honestly I started to get sick of it.” -> Exactly, THE WATER IS RISING. BEWARE OF OVERFLOWING PEOPLE.

Daniel’s mind seemed to be somewhere else after Mick’s last point about George. -> Story 🤝 connecting dots 👀 I am watching.

It really is getting frussssstraaaating

sksss okay.

I should move over to GALEX wouuuhhh.

How shall I start this? I think the reaction my mind produced when reading this paragraph sksss.

Was he really thinking that he was so deep that there was no reason to try climbing up? Would an act of progress, one step in the right direction make a difference?

Okay phew. 😃 LET'S GO. YES I'll be your cheerleader Georgie 😩

It was all thinking from Alex’s point of view, of course.

Oh. Oh? OH!! 😳

According to George, eating wouldn’t be a step in the right direction. He was already abandoned, scarred beyond belief and there was indeed no way to climb back up.

AH the intrusive bad horrible terrible thoughts have arrived. Yeh yeah try to tell that to yourself, George!

Nevertheless what Alex thought mattered to him, somehow. It could be pride, it could be caring but even if he died, he wanted to die without offending Alex. It was pointless because nothing actually mattered in that case but George still couldn’t let go of that crumb of dignity he had somewhere inside him.

I totally view this as some weird ass progress in the right direction. I know it's not the healthy way to look at things. Of course not. But I cannot help but feel like it's so important that George has these feelings about Alex, a lifeline somehow.

Even though we go back to this:

The disappointment of the sincere people who cared about him felt even worse. That wasn’t the most horrifying part, though. If Alex reacted to him like this, he didn’t want to think of the occasion he had to face everyone else who cared about him. That was something he couldn’t handle. 

After facing the meal. There's so muchhhhh in this scene it hurts my brain in a good way. Alex is being such an amazing friend I would've shed a tear if I hadn't been in public.

AND of course, speaking of handling disappointment - WE have to talk about thisssssss:

Here it was, the anticipated expression of disappointment written all over Alex’s face. George almost felt relief. It was familiar, known. It wasn’t like whatever the hell happened in his brain only seconds ago.

Ahh it hurts to see him welcoming it like an old friend when simultaneously he doesn't want to see the disappointment on ALEX. He doesn't want to disappoint ALEX 😭 This inner chaos is so real and so sad.

Oh. and you know what made my heart break?

Something pooled in his chest, so long gone so forgotten. Yet it was quite short-lived when George started to feel very uneasy with the search for a familiar action.

Not knowing how to handle praise after the disappointment became his most loyal emotion. This is so wow. I kept thinking about this part of the chapter and it's so awesome how you manage to make him doubt his own reality and thoughts and it's so conflicting and I took my time processing it while reading. SO much in these few thousand words. You really cannot miss any sentence hehe.

Now now now, THE END???? Excuseee meeee.

“Do you want to live or do you want to die?”

George scoffed and a choked voice came out of his throat.

“Because if you want to die, there is nothing I can do for you.”

I was in my whole oh-my-George-oh-my-Alex-oh-my-feeeeelinggs phase already and this quote you used gave me the rest. Okay I don't mean to sound dramatic, I'm fine over here but wow how dare you be so good with words ahhh.

It was really BOOM HERE! HERE IS THE TRUTH George! Take it or leave it - I can only do so much.

THE FEELS. I won't even attempt to translate my notes for this part.

I still appreciate reading this so so much. ❤️❤️❤️

Oh god, this is such a good, comprehensive and mind-blowing message!! Thank you so much. I was going to keep it in my inbox until I started working on desecration again but here we are. Sebastian's phone call with Nico was supposed to be one long facepalm just to reiterate how terrible Seb become when he panicked! And also, in my plan, everyone's sins will be spilt onto the floor and there will be a reckoning for the smallest of the offences. Sebastian is just seeing his portion. Also him trying to do everything right in an environment where everyone has to compromise was bound to blow but I really want to see it spelt out for him! He might be trying his best but he is still selfish and he will face a reckoning for every bit of wrong he did. Yes, everyone's feelings are valid but Seb's Orwellian double-think where he is a saint somewhere and the complete villain in the other will bite him in the ass.

Mick is a very key person here. He is a much better person than all the oldies. He is very willing to help but he also has the agency of mobilising people, unlike Alex. George might be uneasy with Alex but he would be less embarrassed with Mick because they are not as close. If he only knew, Mick would be the key to everything but he is deliberately kept in the dark at the cost of stopping the bad people from hurting the vulnerable. Even though Daniel has good intentions as well, he lacks organisational thinking over his own worries and insecurities regarding being the saviour.

Galex, oh Galex... I really didn't want to use emotional ransom regarding Alex's intervention and I still feel like I can do without it but the recovery is supposed to be ugly and testing for both of them. George's self-preservation instincts are non-existent so he has to be coerced into saving himself by outside force at this point. The recovery can follow this fucked up route but it sure will be bumpy and it all depends on how much of a bad guy Alex is willing to be in this scenario. Honestly, unlike many people, I have very little sympathy for George and I am not planning to make things easier for him. And if Alex wants to join the ride, things will be difficult for him as well. George doesn't care about anything but the remnants of his dignity and the love he has for his dear ones. Will this be enough to save him? The fact that the people who care about him don't know the severity of the issue, will it drive them to be more tough on George and have the opposite of the desired effect. Honestly, I know Alex is the step in the right direction for George but he is not all of the solution.

Thank you so much for your insights, it really was very useful for me to rethink the last chapter! I am glad you enjoyed it and decided to drop a comment!