#looking forward to whatever the mods on here have in store ^^

[cookiescribble]

Flufftober Day 9: “Don’t Do That!” “But…”

(gif source)

A/N: we've been wanting to write a steddie fic for a long time and we finally got around to it!! clueless bisexual awakening steve is my favorite steve, so i had to put that in there 🫶🏻 - mod angel

p.s. i really enjoyed writing this with bestie, hope you guys enjoy it!! - mod ghost

Pairing: Steve Harrington x Eddie Munson

Summary: Eddie has a proposal that makes Steve question what he wants (and Robin is there to help him think through it).

~~~

It was a slow day at Family Video, typical for the middle of a weekday. Steve and Robin had been keeping each other entertained all day. As it neared the time that high school usually let out, they were hard at work to set up today’s display. 

“I think it’s a good idea to put out Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” Steve was arguing. “Really? And not the classic that is Labyrinth? I’m personally offended, Steven,” Robin scoffed, putting more VHS tapes on the shelf.

“How can something be a ‘classic’ if it only came out like, four months ago??” “Have you seen it?” Steve paused for a moment, before muttering a quiet “...no.” “EXACTLY!” Robin threw up her hands, the way she did when she was passionate about things. “So you cannot argue with me about this.”

Steve rolled his eyes and crossed his arms. “I can’t argue with you about anything, can I?”

“No,” Robin nodded. “You can’t.”

“Fine. Can we at least put both of them up?” Steve asked, shrugging. “Appeal to a wider audience, or whatever Keith told us to do.” “Are you just saying that because you want Ferris on here?” “Robin.” 

Robin sighed dramatically. “I guess we can put them both up.”

The two began setting up the main display, still arguing the whole time they did so.

Steve had lost track of the time when he heard the front door open with a ding! He looked up to see Eddie Munson walking through the door, holding a tower of VHS tapes. 

“Harrington!” Eddie chimed. “Just the man I wanted to see!” He reached the front desk and carefully placed the tower of tapes down, which immediately fell over and sent all the tapes hurtling towards Steve.

Steve reacted as quickly as he could, catching a few of the tapes while the others landed at his feet. “Great,” he said, his tone deadpan. “Thanks.”

“No problem, Stevie,” Eddie winked, placing his elbow on the desk and holding his chin in his hand. “Just had to get the tapes back on time.”

He started to wander towards the display Steve and Robin had set up earlier. “Hey, Labyrinth! I love that movie.” He started to pick up the tape, knocking over Ferris Bueller as he did.

Steve groaned, quickly walking over to the display. “Don’t do that! We worked on that display all day!”

“But I wanted to see about renting Labyrinth,” Eddie whined.

Steve pinched the bridge of his nose. “Can I deal with the tapes you brought back before you start taking more out?”

Eddie bowed dramatically. “Of course. Go ahead, o’ king of the video tapes.”

Steve rolled his eyes, going back to the front desk and typing into the computer. “Eddie, all of these tapes are at least a week late.”

“I’m a busy man, what can I say?” Eddie shrugged, walking towards Steve at the desk, leaning forwards.

“...Busy enough to be in your senior year for the fourth time?” Steve raised an eyebrow at him, crossing his arms for the second time that morning. “Alright, smartass,” Eddie rolled his eyes. “What do you want me to do about it?” “You have to pay the late fees for these,” Steve explained. Eddie let out a long breath, tapping his fingers on the table, his rings making a clinking sound as they clanged together. “Well, what if I told you I’m short on cash right now, buuuut I’ll take you on a date if you cover me?” He batted his eyelashes, giving Steve his best puppy dog eyes.

“...But we’re both guys,” Steve replied, confused, his brows furrowed. A snicker from Robin was heard from somewhere deep in the store.

“Okaay,” Eddie raised his eyebrows slightly, giving Steve a pointed look. “But putting that aside for a second, do you like me?” 

“Uuhhh…yeah?” Steve shrugged. “Why do I feel like you’re somehow still not understanding this?” Eddie rubbed his face with his hand. “‘Cause I’m not.” “And I’m the one in senior year still?” Eddie crossed his arms. “What?” Steve replied, still sounding very confused. “Never mind, just,” Eddie took a deep breath here before continuing. “Think about it.”

Steve took a moment of just standing there to think about how Eddie made him feel. It was different to how he felt about Robin, but it was also different from his only real relationship experience up until this point, which was Nancy. Sometimes he did look at Eddie and get a sort of unusual flutter of feelings rushing around in his chest, but he didn’t really think much of it. Maybe he just wasn’t used to hanging out with someone like him.

“I’ll just pay you back, if you want,” Eddie muttered, taking a step towards the door. “But I wasn’t kidding about being short on cash, so… I’ll just, see you later?” He didn’t even wait for an answer before he turned around and practically ran out the door. 

“… See you later, I guess,” Steve mumbled, even though Eddie was completely off the property at that point. 

Robin sidled up to Steve, bumping him with her arm. “Wow,” was all she said. 

“What?” Steve turned to her, looking more confused than he had in his entire life. “Am I missing something?”

“Well, brains, for one,” she quipped, patting him on the shoulder. “But… how do I explain this to you properly…?

“Explain what?” Steve sounded exasperated and flustered. 

Robin took a deep breath, placing her hands on the table in front of them. “Remember when we had that talk, in the bathroom stall?”

“After we were drugged by crazy people?” Steve replied sarcastically. “No, I have no memory of that.”

“Yeah, yeah,” she waved him off, “forgetting all of that right now.” She let out a deep sigh. “Remember when I told you about Tammy?”

Steve nodded slowly. “Yeah, I remember that…” He said as if he was waiting for what she was saying to make sense.

“Okay. So apply what I said, to how you feel about Eddie. Are you seeing any similarities there?” Robin was speaking slowly, as if she was explaining something to a toddler.

Steve furrowed his brows. “Well… that’s different,” he explained. “I’ve already dated Nancy, and I know I like girls.”

Robin rubbed her temples. “Yes, well, you can like both, Steve. There are lots of people who like girls and boys.”

“... Really?” Steve looked at Robin, and she could practically see the wheels turning in his head.

“Yes, Steve. It’s allowed.” She clapped her hands together. “Now, keeping that in mind, do you understand the feelings you’re having for Eddie?”

Having it phrased to him like that made the whole thing dawn on him; these unexplainable feelings he was having finally had an explanation. I want to be with Eddie. 

He hopped over the counter, not answering Robin’s question as she called after him. Steve honestly didn’t even hear her. 

He didn’t even think about using his car, which he’d very mindfully driven to Family Video; he just ran to the trailer park. He quickly found Eddie’s trailer and banged on the door until it opened.

“Jesus, something better be—“ Eddie froze in his tracks as he saw a very disheveled looking Steve at his door.  “Harrington? What’re you doing here?”

“I… I like you,” Steve huffed, still breathing heavily from running all the way there. 

“…What?” Eddie was just staring at him wide-eyed. 

“…Don’t make me say it again,” Steve pleaded, his voice a bit softer now that he was starting to catch his breath. 

“But—“

“You heard me, I promise you heard me, I just only have enough courage to say it the once so please don’t make me say it again unless you’re saying it ba—“

Eddie leaned forward and kissed him, mostly to get him to stop rambling like an idiot, but also because he wanted to. “Does that help?”

Steve nodded, and then remembered he should probably go back to work. “Yeah, I um…I’ll see you for that date? Soon?” 

“Sure, Harrington,” Eddie replied, smiling like an idiot in love. “I’ll see you soon.”

[elsternwick-rp]

Elsternwick Holiday Update (12-22-23)

Good evening, and very happy holidays to everyone! We hope the past few months have treated you all well, we have been very busy these past few weeks, but we're finally ready to post an update to those who follow us, or have just stumbled upon us in the search results!

Quite a few things have happened in Elsternwick since our last update covering the Autumn Update, and what better day to update things than on the Winter Solstice? Let's begin!

Terrible Tundra of Tiny Terror (Holiday Update) {December 2nd - February 2nd)}

A chill wind blows through the river town of Elsternwick, a blizzard settled over the town as odd occurrences within the nexus coincided at the worst possible time...

It's winter, yes, but something is truly odd around town! Besides the feet of snow and blistering cold, you spy odd footprints within the snow, giggling behind every corner, as well as small claw marks here and there.

Not only that, but attempts to leave Elsternwick are thwarted, should you go beyond the mountains to the east, or the deepest parts of the woods to the west, you'll instead be transported to a vast tundra filled with strange creatures of all shapes and sizes...

Whatever plagues the area have one thing in common...

They are all very small, and you may just be as tiny before you know it!

Welcome to Elsternwick's third annual Holiday update!

As with our previous Autumn event, this time we decided to have a central theme to allow for sandbox work, the theme this year, as you may have guessed, are tiny terrors!

Killer dolls, mischievous gremlins, the Yule Lads and Krampus' little helpers, as long as they are tiny, they'll be causing trouble for the Winter Season in Elsternwick!

Though, if you're feeling more adventurous, perhaps you can take a journey into the titular Tundra of Tiny Terror, whenever you enter, you can explore to find strange creatures, beautiful treasure, and of course, various rewards, but be warned, for its odd properties may cause creatures that are normally small to become big problems!

If you'd rather avoid your muse getting launched out of a window, you can instead opt to turn your muse small, perhaps into a living doll, as a small animal, or perhaps something else tiny, it's all up to you!

As with most of our events, this is a sandbox style event where you can participate however you like, we look forward to how you'll engage with it in a creative manner!

(As before, the Terrible Tundra is something of an open area with extra incentives for rewards if you're feeling like having an adventure!)

This event will run until the end of January, so you have plenty of time to get creative, think big, or small, it doesn't matter, we look forward to what you have in store!

If you wish to run an encounter, don't be shy, simply let people know and the mods will let you run loose as long as it's within reason!

Don't get cold feet, we're sure you'll do great in this event!

Secondly, we have a character update to sort through, so let's get to that!

New Arrivals (12-22-23)

The train has pulled into station, bringing with it many fresh new faces to Elsternwick, we hope you enjoy your stay here!

Grand Admiral Thrawn (Star Wars) - Cecil

Utena Tenjou (Revolutionary Girl Utena) - Xeno

Asirpa (Golden Kamuy) - Laudines

Shinki (Touhou) - Finale

Sonia the Octopus (Original Character) - Rook

Sicely Nohell (Star Wars/Homestuck Original Character) - Cecil

Reserves

We also have a  few reserves, hopefully soon, we’ll be seeing them, and look forward to whatever plots you may do with them!

Pomni (The Amazing Digital Circus) - Rook

Izu (Kamen Rider Zero-One) - Bee

Shotaro Hidari (Kamen Rider W) - Blue

Okina Matara (Touhou) - Laudines

Dropped

Lastly, we have some drops and dropped reserves, sad to see them go, but we hope you had a good time in Elsternwick while they were here!

The Hollow Knight/Atlas (Hollow Knight) - Xeno

Shadow the Hedgehog (Sonic the Hedgehog) - Xeno

Convection of a Waking Soul (original character) - Xeno

SilverAsh (Arknights) - Carmine

Dropped Reserves

Ori (Ori and the Blind Forest) - Rook

Sento (Kamen Rider) - Thana

Haruki (Ultraman) - Thana

And that does it! We hope this character update helps inspire other character choices for future muses, and look forward to what you might be doing with these new characters or future characters! <:

Januscary...?

Just about done with updates, 2023 is rapidly coming to a close, and we're excited for what lies in wait for 2024, we've already got a few ideas for what's to come, including next month in the month of January-...

A somewhat uncommon trend is to release horror movies or do scary things in January, and we thought it might be fun to attempt that this year, Terrible Tundra of Tiny Terror will continue to run, but we just might have some other frightening treats for the month as well!

The aforementioned Army of Darkness adventure by Shin will be played then, which inspired by the movie of the same name, involving the undead, time travel, and the time of the vikings, but that doesn't have to be the only thing we have planned! We may have some other bonechilling encounters figured out by then, we'll be sure to keep you updated as the time comes, but if that inspires you, we'd love to hear what you have in mind!

Update Done!

That about does it! Not as big as the Autumn update, but we're happy to keep you all updated! We hope you have a great evening and Holiday season!

And we also hope you'll have a great time in Elsternwick's Winter, of course!

And if you’re not part of Elsternwick, we look forward to hearing from you if this event/update perhaps interests you!

Winter will continue to go on with more fun activities, and of course, after Winter comes Spring, and who knows what that new growth may bring with it...? We hope you'll look forward to whatever may come!

But until then, we hope you have a wonderful day and holiday season, and look forward to whatever you may do, both within Elsternwick and outside of it! See you again soon!

[inthelittlewood]

Over the years as a content creator, how have you adapted with the changing platform?

As well as the rise, decline, and rejuvenation of minecraft?

Was it hard?

Honestly, my channel very nearly died out at one point because I'm a stubborn bugger!

My channel was born from Minecraft but I soon felt the pinch, much like everybody else where new maps and mod experiences entered a dry spell and my peers all had their established groups, deeply entrenched in whatever SMP they had going. So I was just nearby, floating on my own little rock. Between that and the pressures of being PG in all my content, I needed to diversify my game roster and loosen the reins a little for my own sanity.

The variety period of my channel was really fun but it really highlighted the cold hard fact that YouTube was evolving in to a single topic success store, but that just wasn't for me. I'd rather have transitioned out the industry enjoying my final days as opposed to getting caught in a one game rut. I was doing radio before this and I was confident I could return to it.

This went on for a while, to slowly declining numbers. When I reached the 1.3m subscriber mark, it all screeched to a halt and I plateaued HARD!

In late 2018 / early 2019 my channel was almost dead. Yogscast were floating me some months when CPM (ad money) was low and I'd pay them back on stronger months, I'm eternally grateful for that. I resorted to making a Patreon and told myself I'd only do it for a set period and if it was still a dependency by the end of that time, I'd close up shop. I was looking to get married, have a kid and I needed more stability then aaaaall of a sudden, BOOM, one of the games in my roster blew up. Fortnite, and not even at the beginning of its life either. This was nearly 2 years in to Battle Royale.

My stubbornness had paid off for once. Others were hiding 30 seconds of info in 10 minute videos to get pre-roll advertisements and I was NEVER going to do that.. Mine were 50 seconds: "Hey how ya doing, here's your info, catch ya later" and people respected that. Fast forward to now and that's still my main bread winner, it's nuts.

Is it creatively fulfilling? No. Does it pay the bills and keep sponsors happy, heck yeah!

I stayed active in the Minecraft scene via streaming, cameos in other people's content and was in good standing with Mojang (so much so that I got to host Minecon Live, that was fun!! Remember the first Grid Runners map?).

I dabbled in casual speedrunning and was there for the Minecraft Championship's inception which I snapped at the chance at to play in as I'd championed the Noxcrew's work since 2012. So in a weird way, it feels like my stubbornness and commitment to quality didn't go unnoticed by the current leaders in the field. Those middle patches of MCYT weren't for me, the 'lets be a group of creators and by an empty mansion, leaning our gold plaque against the wall on the floor next to our 2 pairs of sneakers' and going uber kid friendly or entering roleplay wasn't appealing to me.

This new wave of Minecraft through.. Where improv comedy and a little bit of skill are praised. This is where I'm meant to be. I'd demonstrated all these skills through projects like the ADVENTure and the Noxcrew Gameshow but they were in some ways, a little too ahead of their time. I just had to survive long enough to be here for the right 'phase'.

3L/LL has breathed life in to my 'second channel' which, let's be honest, is my Minecraft channel, calling it second isn't fair and MCC springs my name up to the new gen. Creators blowing up now might have watched me as kids or other OGs will give a knowing nod but I certainly still feel like I'm floating in the aether not knowing juuuust quite where I fit in, similarly to before. I'm sure it's partly imposter syndrome but also my lack of commitment to the game for 4/5 years will be why I feel this pinch.

So that's my next goal, finding a new MC space to call home, being a stubborn fuck as always and pushing myself creatively. Let's see how it goes

[springtrappd]

an updated, straightforward guide to modding security breach and its dlc, ruin (including cheats!)

modding fnaf:sb (and by extension, ruin!) is actually pretty simple, but there's a tragic lack of comprehensive text-form guides that actually explain the process -- and a lot of scams out there. so! here's a straightforward guide to modding sb, allowing you to:

freecam

access the debug menu

access the game's console (and associated commands)

...and whatever else you wanna install later!

interested? hit the read more, and we'll get started!

(and if you already have modding experience, just skip to the bolded text for the core instructions)

unlike games like minecraft or the sims, sb doesn't allow the user access to its console (and therefore the ability to manipulate the game); it has no native mod support. this means that we need to modify the game's data to allow 1) mods to be installed, 2) console access and 3) restoring the debug menu. depending on what you want to achieve -- simple console access/freecam or loading mods/debug menu access -- the path forward branches a little. i recommend you do both if you want to bend sb to your whims!

part 1: freecam and basic console access

this process does not require any messing with game files, and is thus the easier of the two. since sb is made using unreal engine, by installing the universal unreal unlocker (or uuu), we can 'unlock' access to free camera movement and the game's console menu, allowing the input of various commands. the direct download link is [here].

it'll download as a zip file (UUU3021.zip). extract its content into a separate folder -- you can put it wherever you want, just don't leave it in downloads -- and run UUUClient.exe to open the program. it should look like this:

process refers to the game you're trying to modify by injecting the DLL into it. the dll we're injecting is the default one, so don't touch that; instead, we need to give it a game to manipulate!

now, open security breach. when security breach is running, select it as the process to be injected into.

then, hit inject dll.

then, just let it do its thing! depending on your hardware, it might take a second for it to process everything, but once it's done it'll give you a little pop-up letting you know it's active. if it doesn't work, try the usual troubleshooting gambit (uninstall reinstall, check you're hitting the right buttons, run program as administrator, ask reddit, etc)...

...aaaaand you're done! you can now access the console! it's bound to ` by default, but you can change that in uuu's configuration tab. it should look like this:

(note that it locks your mouse, so you can't move the player character when it's open!)

using this, you can input a whole bunch of commands, most notably:

toggledebugcamera (lets you unlock the camera from the player character. note that since they're still a physical object, they can still die!)

destroy [entity name here] (deletes the entity mentioned)

destroyAll StaffBotSecurityPatrol_C (deletes all security patrol staffbots! note that they respawn when you die or reload an area.)

summon [entity name here] (self-explanatory!)

viewmode unlit (turns off the lighting effects)

and that's it for method 1! if you want a more complete list of commands, you can find one here. if you're satisfied with this, you can stop here, but if you want access to more traditional 'cheats' (like modifying freddy's power level or triggering game events), we're gonna have to do a bit more. so! continuing on:

part 2: unrealmodloader and restoring the debug menu

this one's way, way more complicated. strap in, because we're about to start modifying the game's files itself. as a safety precaution, you may want to back up your save files to a separate location, in case something goes wrong and you need to reinstall the game again; steam doesn't support cloud saves for sb. if you're using steam, you should find them stored in your local files; the directory should be something like C:\Users\User\AppData\Local\fnaf9\Saved\SaveGames. copy those files somewhere else, and you're good to go!

2.1: installing uml

first, we're going to install unrealmodloader (uml); it's gonna let us modify the game's files on our behalf, which saves you a lot of time learning C++. the download link is [here], and you'll need to extract the file (UnrealModLoader_V2.2.1.rar), same as before. since it's a .rar file, your system probably can't extract it naturally, so you can just download something like 7zip. once extracted, it should look like this:

now, run the uml .exe and then run security breach (without uuu). let it do its thing. is everything loading? is the launcher running? good! as things are, we now have a mod loader without any mods to load. so, onto the complicated part:

2.2: editing local files

we're going to be adding kaydax's debug menu to the game. to do this, we need to mess with the game's files a bit. the file directories will be different depending on where and how you've installed the game -- that's what makes this complicated -- but what's inside them should be the same. if you mess up, just uninstall and then reinstall the game again; it won't affect anything that we've done up to this point.

first: download and extract fnaf_sb_debug_menu_unlocker.zip. (that's a direct download link). open it and find the paks folder. that's the only thing we need.

next, open the game's local files. you can do this on steam by going to its library entry, hitting the cog and finding 'browse local files' under 'manage'. if you're not using steam, just go wherever you installed it. it should look like this:

(note: fnaf9 is sb's name in all the files!)

move the paks folder into the content folder. if there's already a paks folder, move the logicmods folder inside it, and if that's already there, just transfer DebugMenu.pak in there yourself. maintaining the file paths is important; if they're broken, the mod won't work.

('coremods' is irrelevant to what we're doing. don't worry about it!)

finally, download the last bit of the debug menu mod from [here]. extract and open it the same as before. this time, we'll be transferring files into the Binaries folder.

move the contents of the Win64 folder (dxgi.dll and Plugins) into your game's Binaries folder. (you shouldn't have to overwrite any existing files, but my memory's fuzzy on that -- my bad! OTL).

and with that, you have now successfully installed kaydax's debug menu enabler! yippee!

2.3: a brief detour

i'm gonna be honest, this next bit's optional, but definitely something you should do for a smoother experience. kaydax's enabler is great, but it comes with some kinks -- like drifting while in flying mode, or not having any keyboard shortcuts. thankfully, this is easy to fix: just download kokosko's enabler [here] and place it in your paks folder. it should now look like this:

(chowda is ruin, don't worry about it)

congrats! there's just one more thing left to do:

2.4: steam settings

head to the game's entry in your steam library, open the Properties menu, and under Launch Options type -dx11. this makes the game open in DirectX 11, and it's likely to crash without it.

and with that, you're done! run uml when security breach is open, and you're ready to go. you can press f1 ingame to open the mod menu (you'll find the debug menu under logicmods), or (provided you've followed step 2.3) you can just press x. however, if you want uml to open automatically, well... yeah, there's more to do. so!

part 3: automating that shit

because nobody has the time for that!

this is technically explained within uml's files itself, but it felt wrong to not include it here. first, navigate to your uml folder, then from Tools to AutoInjector.

the readme.txt explains what to do, but if that doesn't make sense to you, here's the gist:

3.1: copying files

copy the contents of the AutoInjector folder (minus the readme) into sb's win64 folder, located inside the Binaries folder.

3.2: modify the .ini

open ModLoaderInfo.ini (now in your sb folder) using a program like Notepad. you should see something like this:

you need to change this address to the location of your UnrealEngineModLoader.dll. you can do this by navigating to your uml folder, right-clicking the file and selecting copy as path.

save the file and close it. when you run sb, the console should automatically open -- and all of your mods with it!

aaaaand congrats, you're done! you have successfully modded security breach. be aware that the game is extremely fragile and very prone to doing weird shit, so don't worry if it, uh, does that. you can find the ruin-specific part of the debug menu under the 'chowda' tab. (no, i don't know why it's called that. don't ask.)

have fun, and happy security breaching!

if you're interested in more mods to download, you can check out gamebanana or nexusmods.

huge thank you to jestxfot, kaydax and kokosko for their work! make sure to support them if you can. :) also feel free to contact me if anything messes up lmao i'll try to help as best i can

[aziraphales-library]

Do you think you could recommend some fics where Crowley talks to Azra about how they treat him in heaven/vice versa

Like after the body swap one of them is like “dude wtf I’m gonna murder them”

Here are a couple of fics where they talk about how Heaven treats Aziraphale, and a couple of fics where they talk about how Hell treats Crowley...

Definitions of Love by organizechaos (T)

Aziraphale thinks that all the abuse and trauma he endured in heaven is ‘love’. After being freed after the apocalypse, the angel is beyond happy. He wants nothing more than to spend eternity with Crowley but the demon is ready to put a name to their feelings. They both know that they care for each other deeply and when Crowley finally has the courage to put it in words (‘I love you’), it sends Aziraphale spiraling into believing Crowley will start treating him like heaven did.

"We- we don't have to pretend anymore.” Crowley stuttered out, golden eyes looking frantically about the angel. His sunglasses were clutched tightly in the palm of his hand, “The apocalypse is over, it has been for years. Can't we- can't we say it now?" his voice wavered only slightly.

"I don't love you, Crowley." Aziraphale emphasized each word to better help the demon understand. He had never truly loved something in all his years of existence, he didn’t think he was capable. To love another being — especially Crowley...

"I could never love you."

In a Perfect World, I would Hold your Hand and Kiss your Cheek by boredom (T)

A chance encounter with a young man leads Aziraphale on the path of healing and discovery. Maybe now he can finally admit to what he wants, without guilt and without fear. Maybe now he and Crowley can finally move forward, together.

Easier Than Air by A_Candle_For_Sherlock (G)

The world hasn't ended, and everything is fine. They're fine. It's terrifying. For once Aziraphale finds he's the one who can't leave well enough alone — who needs to talk about it.

Shell Shock by EdosianOrchids901 (T)

Not long after the church bombing, Crowley shows up on Aziraphale’s doorstep. He’s disoriented, on the verge of collapse, clearly in shock. Aziraphale isn't sure what happened, but he's determined to help. Can he?

Can You Feel The Love (Deep Down Inside) by AnonymousDandelion (G)

Aziraphale focused, trying to trace the unexpected strand of love to its source. And froze. “Crowley!” Aziraphale blurted out, aloud. The demon sprang awake and out of his dream with a startled gasp. And just like that, as Aziraphale hurried to soothe and apologize for having disturbed Crowley’s repose, the tendril was gone.

~ ~ ~

Aziraphale and Crowley have long since accepted that, for unknown reasons, Aziraphale's metaphysical love-sense can't pick up Crowley's feelings. Fortunately, it doesn't matter. Because they do love each other, they both know it, and they're content together.

So why has Aziraphale recently begun sensing something that feels very much like a filament of love coming from Crowley — reaching out of the blue, only to disappear the moment attention is called to it?

It's a mystery to them both. But whatever is going on, whatever realizations may lie in store, they have each other, they have their dog, and they have their love. They'll be all right.

(May be read alone or as part of the series. Features fluff, feels, very light mystery, very light angst, much supportiveness, lots and lots of love.)

A Dream Of Fire by entanglednow (T)

Sometimes the worst thing Hell makes Crowley do, is nothing at all.

- Mod D

[edendaphne]

“Discordant Sonata” Chapter 19

>>Click here to read on Ao3<<

>>Click here to read on Wattpad<<

–––––

CHAPTER 19: ATTACCA

Music glossary:        Attacca - "To attack at once"; used as a direction in music at the end of a movement to begin the next without pause

–––––

(Mood music: "The Conversation" - Pearl Django)

Being mere months away from graduating lycée meant that their group of friends didn’t have as many classes together, due to their diverse individual interests and talents. However, they always made sure to make time to hang out after school before their extracurricular activities began.

And thus, Adrien, Nino, and Alya made their way to the classroom where the art club gathered to meet up with Marinette. From there, Adrien would make his way to either fencing lessons or Chinese, depending on the day of the week. Marinette would join him on days when he had Chinese (as she’d become determined to master the language ever since her uncle visited from Shanghai a few years back), Alya would go to her journalism club, and Nino would travel to his part-time internship at the local recording studio.

“–and the backlogs just keep piling up!” Alya spoke as they walked, voice full of vigor and excitement. “I’ve had to recruit yet another mod to help me keep order in the forums! Especially since the Ladyblog has started going international and we’ve had to organize servers in different languages. You wouldn’t believe how crazy it’s gotten in there recently!”

“Dang, babe,” Nino interjected. “Sounds like things are super rough for you right now.”

“Not really, more busy than anything. Especially because I have that big research article due next week, there’s just not enough hours in the day to try to read everything that goes on in there. But I have my mods report to me daily, ‘cause I always like to stay on top of everything that goes on in the chats!”

“What’s gotten everyone so riled up in the Ladyblog lately?” Adrien chimed in. “I don’t recall it being nearly this busy last year.”

The trio entered the art club’s classroom and settled down at the table where Marinette sat, getting her various sketches organized. The art teacher was quite easy going, so they didn’t have to talk in hushed whispers and could come and go as they pleased.

“Well, to be honest, it’s because of Chat Noir,” Alya replied.

Adrien tried to contain his surprise. “R-really? What– uhhh, what do people have to say about him?”

He winced inwardly. He knew he shouldn’t ask. But curiosity got the better of him today. Maybe learning the news through the filter or Alya’s paraphrasing instead of reading the negative comments firsthand would lessen the sting of what people said about him.

Marinette whipped her head around at the mention of his alter ego. “Wait, what about Chat Noir?” she inquired.

“Girl,” Alya replied, her voice filled with renewed exuberance. “You would not believe how much we’ve had to censor and moderate all the inappropriate things people have been saying!”

Adrien flinched in his seat. “Wow… do people really hate him that much?” he asked, trying to conceal the dejection in his voice.

Alya busted out into loud guffaws. “Hate?! Dude, most people don’t hate him; they LOVE him! By ‘inappropriate’ comments, I mean the kinda stuff you wouldn’t want your grandma to catch you reading! There’s a whole giant section dedicated to his new fan club!” she said as she removed her glasses so she could wipe away the tears of laughter.

“WHAT?!” Adrien squawked in confusion, his face feeling hotter than the ovens back at the bakery. “A fan club??”

Marinette burst into uncontrollable snickering. “Has it really gotten that bad?!”

Nino joined in, “Bro! Adrien, I can’t believe you haven’t heard Alya rant about these rabid fans before! They call themselves the ‘Noir Nation’, and the kind of things they’ve been writing would make adult romance authors blush like schoolgirls!”

Alya nodded, thoroughly amused. “And that’s not including all the fanfiction people have been writing.”

“Wait– the WHAT?! There’s fanfiction?!!” Marinette gaped in shock, as if she’d been hit in the face with an enormous pie. “Alya, how come I never knew about this?!”

“Why? You wanna read em? Girl, you’ll get no judgment from me. If you wanna check ‘em out for yourself, just go check under the hashtag ‘Ladynoir’.”

Marinette stammered as her arms flailed in her bewilderment, accidentally knocking her phone off the table and onto the floor, her eyes bigger and rounder than Adrien had ever seen them. “They have a ship name?!” she screeched.

“Just mind the ratings though,” Alya advised. “Some of them can get pretty steamy. You wouldn’t want someone to catch you reading those in public,” she added with a wink.

Marinette continued to sputter incoherently. “NO, I am NOT gonna read it!! It would be different if they were fictional characters, but I could never read fanfiction about real people!”

Alya raised a skeptical eyebrow at her. “Mm-hmm… Sure.”

Marinette’s hands flew to her face, trying to hide how red her entire face had gotten, and released a long squeak that resembled a hamster on helium. As shocked as Adrien was about these rather unexpected news, seeing Marinette’s over-the-top reaction brought a wide grin to his face and he busted out laughing.

He bent over to retrieve Marinette’s phone, since she was too busy being mortified to notice it had fallen to the floor. As he was about to hand it back, the screen lit up and Adrien saw the lockscreen wallpaper: it was the same photo of Ladybug and Chat Noir that he himself had saved earlier that day. He smiled, not exactly sure what to make of it, but finding it adorable that she’d liked the photo enough to set it as her lockscreen.

He tapped her shoulder, waiting for her to respond. She emerged from behind her impromptu hand shield and turned her head, then her eyes widened once again as soon as she saw what Adrien was showing her. She jolted straight up, stiff as a board, and her eyes met his, cheeks turning tomato red. He winked at her, amused about this little secret between them, and handed back her phone without a word.

Marinette accepted it with a meek-sounding, “Thanks,” looking like she wanted to explain the photo, but not able to do so unless she wanted Alya and Nino to find out that she was potentially a… ahem– “Ladynoir” shipper.

Switching the conversation to something else (which Marinette seemed to be eternally grateful for), the group chatted until it became time for them to scatter to their next destinations.

With a wave, Adrien exited the classroom and headed towards fencing practice, one of the few activities he decided to stick with despite not being forced to participate. Fencing, along with Chinese lessons, were not only enjoyable, but were also quite useful. Sadly, he didn’t have access to a piano anymore, so he wasn’t able to pursue that hobby for the time being. Hopefully later down the line, when things had settled down and he’d found his own place to live, he’d be able to finance one.

Thinking about the future had become an exciting pastime instead of an anxiety-inducing one, and it was all thanks to his friends and those he cared about. He smiled as he reached the door to the locker rooms, continuing to daydream of what was to come.

(Mood music: "Recollection 3" - Shirō Sagisu (BLEACH OST, "The Diamond Dust Rebellion")

Adrien finished getting dressed for fencing, his head still blissfully floating in the clouds. He stored his belongings into his assigned locker, shutting it with a loud clang, which echoed through the empty room.

Huh...? Empty?

He swiveled his head around, surprised that there was no one beside him. He stood up and began walking down the large room, peeking down the other locker rows looking for his classmates; but there was nobody.

Where was everyone? There’s no way that every single one of them was running late. Had his lessons been cancelled and he’d somehow missed a text message or email? He began heading back towards his locker to check his phone for any schedule changes.

Before he reached his destination, however, heavy thudding footsteps broke the eerie silence. Adrien whipped his body around to greet whoever they belonged to.

The owner of those footsteps was one of the last people Adrien expected to meet here.

“Gaspard?!”

Adrien stood agape, face to face with his old bodyguard, whom he hadn’t seen in a couple of years; not since he’d resigned and moved out of the country. Nathalie had mentioned that in his resignation letter, Gaspard said that he’d become involved in an overseas business venture involving the market of rare action figures. Nevertheless, Adrien couldn’t help but suspect that his father’s ill temper and poor treatment of their employees was the true reason for his departure.

Adrien’s first reaction was surprise and joy, and he rushed forward to greet and embrace him. However, as he approached and got a better look at the man’s face, Adrien’s mood instantly morphed into confusion and apprehension. There was something odd about his eyes.

Something wasn’t right. Why was Gaspard here? And why now?

He came to a halt about a meter before reaching him. An oppressive weight seemed to press in all around him, and he had to suppress a shiver. “Wait. Gaspard, did–” he gulped, “–did my father send you?”

His old bodyguard did not reply, but took a heavy step towards him. Adrien stepped back.

“Please… I can’t go back. I live somewhere else now, and I’m very happy there. Whatever he told you about the situation, it’s a lie.”

His bodyguard continued to approach him, his stare vacant and unsettling.

Fighting the urge to panic, he pleaded, “You don’t have to do this. If he’s offered you compensation, I can match it; it’ll just take me a bit of time. But we can work something out, right?? For old time’s sake?”

He continued walking backwards until he bumped into something firm, but it wasn’t a wall; it was another person. Before he could turn around, they grabbed him by the shoulders, detaining him and preventing him from running away.

He was about to shout for help when something sharp jabbed him on the side of the neck, injecting a cold liquid. Adrien’s eyes grew wide in terror.

Shit.

Adrien swore as he jerked away, elbowing whoever was behind him and managing to break free. Rubbing at the spot where the syringe had stabbed him, he glanced back to take a look at his other assailant, only to see... another Gaspard?

Why are there two of him??

This was wrong. Gaspard didn’t have a twin; he knew that for a fact. He’d worked for the Agrestes ever since Adrien was a toddler and was too young to even pronounce his name correctly (hence the nickname “Gorille”, which stuck around for years afterwards). Additionally, there was something uncanny, otherworldly, even, about the way these two men looked and moved.

He shook himself out of his stupor. He didn’t have time to contemplate any possible explanations. He had to get out of there fast.

He sprinted towards the exit, but only managed to travel a few paces before he lost his footing and tripped. He fell to the ground hard, almost hitting his head on a nearby bench. As he struggled to get up, he realized that his fingers and toes had already gone numb.

Not good.

Time was running out. Adrenaline coursed through him and, with a grunt, he hefted himself to his feet and scrambled towards the exit, as fast as he could despite a heavy limp. Though his heart was hammering and his legs felt like they were filled with sand, he pushed himself, concentrating on reaching the door.

After taking a few steps, however, he realized that even if he did manage to exit the locker room, the area beyond was an open courtyard. Meaning he wasn’t going to be able to reach someplace safe before getting caught. He had no choice but to transform into Chat Noir, and hopefully Plagg’s powers and strength could help him escape and find somewhere to hide.

He’d scarcely uttered the first syllable in the transformation phrase when he was tackled to the ground. A giant hand swiftly covered his mouth and Adrien felt his hands get bound together with thick zip ties behind his back. A muffled scream of writhing frustration made its way up his throat as his limbs became more and more useless by the second.

No… This can’t be happening! Please, this can’t be how it all ends!

Just when his life had finally gained a semblance of normalcy and he’d found happiness again, it would get ripped away and he would disappear without a trace, leaving everyone to wonder what had happened to him. Leaving his friends to think that Gabriel had pulled him from school and they would never see him again. Leaving Ladybug to wonder if Chat had abandoned her forever. Leaving her to fight Hawkmoth alone. Again.

He couldn’t let that happen. He thrashed and struggled as furiously as he could, fighting the feelings of overwhelming helplessness that threatened to consume him. Nearing despair, he was too distracted to notice Plagg phrasing through the wall, away from the skirmish, in search of the only person who could save him.

(Mood music: "Run" - Ludovico Einaudi)

Marinette fidgeted with her pencil, her feet wiggled and bounced under her desk. She didn’t understand; when she’d arrived at the art club, her head had been filled with inspiration and ideas that she’d been excited to draw and execute. However, at the moment, her mind was filled with noise and disquietude.

Having had enough, she excused herself to visit the restroom. Once she’d walked far enough from the classroom, she opened her purse to talk to Tikki about her current dilemma.

“It’s the same feeling as last night, Tikki! Except that would mean one of three possibilities. Option A.) It’s nothing and I’m going crazy. And— don’t give me that look, Tikki! I can see what you’re thinking and I don’t have time for your cheeky sass right now!” The kwami snickered while Marinette cleared her throat and continued, “Option B.) that Chat is here, at this school, which is impossible because his school’s on the other side of the city, that’s why he always leaves the house super early for his long commute.”

Tikki opened her mouth and looked like she was about to say something, but then didn’t (...or couldn’t?).

Marinette resumed, “Or, C.) that my–– what do I even call it? My ‘Spidey sense’??–– that it’s got a long distance mode, and Chat is all the way across Paris and he’s in trouble! But what am I supposed to do about that from here?! I wouldn’t even know where to begin looking!”

Tikki shrugged. ��Follow your instincts, Marinette. There’s no harm in taking a quick look around the school, right?”

Marinette groaned. “UGH! It doesn’t make sense!! Am I going to get interrupted like this all the time from now on?” She shook her head resolutely. “No. I can’t just go off on random field trips every single time I feel a random fit of anxiety. I’m sure it’s just leftover jitters from last night. I’m supposed to call Master Fu after school anyway; he can help me figure everything out. I’m just gonna go back to class and forget about it.”

Tikki frowned, not quite convinced, but deciding not to press further.

Marinette made her way back to the classroom in a frustrated huff. But as her hand reached to turn the handle, the feelings of danger and urgency multiplied tenfold. Without a word, she sprinted away in the opposite direction, not even knowing where she was running to, only knowing she had to get there immediately.

She reached the large common area of the school downstairs. Her head whipped around, frantically searching for something, anything. In her haste, she didn’t notice a small black creature zoom into her open purse.

A few moments later, she felt a frantic tugging at her shirt from below.

“Marinette!! Over there! Check the locker room, quick!!!” Tikki whisper-screamed as she peeked outside the purse, her tone uncharacteristically frantic.

Marinette nodded, then sprinted to the locker room.

“Wait! You should transform first!” Tikki added.

No time!

“Marinette, wait!!”

Despite Tikki’s protests, Marinette raced towards the double doors, tackling them open.

Three sets of eyes landed on her as she skidded to a halt, but only one pair consumed her entire attention. She gasped in horror, hands flying to her face as she stared at what was occurring in front of her. Adrien let out a desperate, muffled scream urging her to run.

His panicked voice snapped her out of her dazed shock; but instead of running, she stood her ground, eyes darting back and forth across the area searching for something useful. The room was remarkably barren except for a lone broom a short distance away from her. She grabbed it and leaped towards the closest attacker (the one holding Adrien down), swinging it like a baseball bat.

The man didn’t even try to avoid the hit; the broomstick merely bounced off the side of his face where Marinette had hit him. She frowned in confusion, then tried hitting him again, bringing the stick down on the top of his head like an axe.

SNAP.

The end of the broom flew off, and Marinette stared in shock at the broken broomstick.

“What the hell are you?!” Marinette exclaimed, shifting her grip on the shortened wooden stub.

She pounced at the second bodyguard, bringing her weapon down in a stabbing motion; but he swatted at her hand, disarming her. She yelped in pain, leaping backwards to get some distance between them.

She was outmatched. The only strategy available was to use their own size against them. With a feint to the side, she shot at his legs for a takedown, hoping to catch him off balance. He called her bluff and shoved her backwards with his giant palm, then kneed her in the stomach.

Winded from the impact, Marinette doubled over with a gasping wheeze, fighting with all her might to keep herself from collapsing onto the ground. She forced herself upright and attacked again. With a clumsy jerk, she lunged forward, swinging wild punches at her opponent. The shots connected but his expression barely changed; it was like beating a breathing punching bag.

The bodyguard backhanded Marinette across the face. Pain shooting across her cheek, she staggered, almost losing her balance. In her daze, she watched helplessly as the man reared his arm back. There was no chance to dodge. His fist connected with her abdomen, delivering a liver shot that shut down her entire body. She crumpled to the floor as if boneless. She tried to call out Adrien’s name, but her mouth merely opened in a silent scream.

Marinette could hear Adrien’s distressed screaming, but it sounded distant, like they were underwater. The edges of her vision grew black and fuzzy, the entire room dissolving around her. She had to consciously force her lungs to inhale, but couldn’t fill them all the way, as if a boulder had been placed on top of her chest.

Faintly, she felt herself getting picked up off the ground and carried away over someone’s shoulder. Disoriented and semi-blinded, the sudden movement and rough jostling made her head spin and gave her vertigo. She gritted her teeth and squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block it all out.

A few moments later, they stopped moving, and she heard a door burst open. Where were they? Before she could gather her senses, she was in the air, thrown several meters away, landing with a hard thud. A sharp pain traveled down her body as she rolled into the wall across them. The shriek that tried to escape her throat emerged as a strained, shallow whine.

The man stomped out, leaving her alone in the room. “Stop…!” she rasped out, managing to tilt her neck upwards, head pounding.

The bodyguard slammed the door shut, followed by a bang and a clattering sound that could only mean he’d broken the doorknob of whatever room she was in.

Marinette's vision became more and more blurred. At the verge of losing consciousness, she fought to keep her eyes open as tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.

No, she couldn’t pass out! She had to save Adrien! Stay awake, Marinette, stay awake!!

She bit down on her lip hard, focusing on the sharp sting, on the swelling that was already forming around her right eye, forcing herself to feel the pain her body was in. At this moment, feeling pain was better than falling unconscious. She concentrated on her breathing, slowly regaining her senses.

She reached down to open her purse and get Tikki’s help… only to be met with emptiness. Panic settled in her gut as she realized that sometime during the skirmish, the purse had slipped off her shoulder. She sat up, slowly, so she wouldn’t risk feeling faint again from the change in positions.

She squinted, adjusting her eyesight to the darkness of the room. It seemed to be some sort of supply closet. After a failed few attempts to stand, she crawled towards the door instead, careful not to bump into the crates and shelves that filled the area.

The girl eyed the broken doorknob wearily. She was pretty proficient at lockpicking and breaking into things, but not as good at breaking out. Her only hope was that Tikki would be able to find her… if she was even nearby.

She swore to herself. Why had she rushed in and attacked two grown ass men (who, incidentally, may or may not be supernatural to boot!) instead of hiding and creating a strategy?! Now she was useless, Tikki was gone, and Adrien was surely on his way to get auctioned to the highest bidder in the criminal black market and ransomed off for an enormous sum. Great job, Marinette. Adrien’s been abducted and it’s all your fault.

Gathering all the determination she could muster, she tried to call out for help. But her voice was still too hoarse, and only a weak croak came out. She clenched her fists, grumbling irritably. Time for a different approach. Somehow, she needed to make noise.

After a brief search, she found a hard, metallic object that she could use to hammer on the door. She tested it out; it was surprisingly effective. She doubled her efforts, making as big a racket as possible. Hopefully, it would only be a matter of time before somebody heard her, let her out, and she could go find Adrien.

She couldn’t let anything else happen to another loved one. Not again.

–––––

I'M REEEAAAAALLY SORRY FOR THAT CLIFFHANGER JSHDKFJHSKDF ᕕ(╯°д°)ᕗ  I tried splitting up the sections differently but it didn't really flow as well.

But the next chapter is almost done, so I'll have it ready by next weekend!!

[m-y-fandoms]

Fuyuhiko x reader -  Fuyuhiko’s S/O saves his sister from being killed by Sato

Request: congrats on the blog!! i really like your writing!! could i request fuyuhiko's s/o protecting natsumi from being killed by sato?

Of course! I love Fuyuhiko actually, he just barely missed my top five favorite DR characters list, definitely top 10. Warnings: blood, violence, spoilers for the Danganronpa 3 anime and Super Danganronpa 2, reader’s gender not specified  - Mod Kokichi

     “See ya, babe. Don’t be late after last period today, I got some shit to handle for my dad as soon as I drop you off at work,” Fuyuhiko spoke lazily, a nudge on your shoulder to get your attention again.

     “Yeah, ‘course!” You smiled as he leaned in and pecked you on the cheek, routinely, like he had every morning for the past few years. “See ya, ‘Hiko!” He nodded, sauntering off with books under his arm and his free hand in the pocket of his slacks. “Bye, Peko!” You bowed your head to the swordswoman who followed diligently behind your boyfriend, nodding her acknowledgment to you. You sighed, watching him disappear into the entrance of the main wing of Hope’s Peak Academy. Your eyes glossed over dreamily, lingering on him. Was that a new cologne on him today? Maybe he was wearing his uniform a little neater than usual this morning…

     “Let’s go, fuckin’ space cadet!” A shove from behind knocked you forward toward the entrance of the Reserve Course wing, You sighed deeply. “My brother ain’t that cute, damn!”

     “Natsumi, you could’ve just said something.” You pushed back the frustration in your voice in favor of a small smile in her direction.

     “Whatever, we’re gonna be late, and I’m not dealing with another one of Mr. Nakamura’s lectures on the value of punctuality!” She stuck her tongue out as if gagging, her blonde hair floating through the air as she rushed past you, her shoulder roughly knocking into yours.

     “Geez...that girl…” You shook your head, following behind.

     You couldn’t really complain about anything or anyone at Hope’s Peak, seeing as you were just lucky to be there in the first place. After dating Fuyuhiko for a little over two years, he got scouted and asked to attend Hope’s Peak’s main course as the Ultimate Yakuza. You were so happy for him, and proud, but he wasn’t as thrilled. He was really attached to you, with your father and his father being childhood friends and clan members, and your own childhood friendship with him had blossomed into this loving and loyal relationship. It was the best kind. After all, people always say the healthiest and longest-lasting marriages came when your spouse was your best friend, and you definitely intended to marry that boy one day. With how close you two were, he’d be damned if he was splitting up with you for some stupid school, but both you and his father weren’t having it. Mr. Kuzuryu only gained more influence and pride once his son started going to the best school in the country, and you just wouldn’t let your boyfriend pass up on the opportunity of a lifetime, and so…

     Fuyuhiko had gotten his father to personally pay for your tuition in order to enter the Reserve Course. It wasn’t like your family was poor, but you weren’t Hope’s-Peak-level rich. You protested at first, of course, feeling like a burden, but you could see that Fuyuhiko was quickly getting angry at your refusals and excuses, so you accepted. Plus, he told you that he wanted someone he trusted to look after his little sister, Natsumi, and you let him give you this excuse as a justification to accept his father’s financial support.

     The Reserve Course wasn’t that bad, certainly much more high class than your previous school, but sharing most of your classes with Natsumi was a pain in your ass. Her father was the leader of the Kuzuryu clan. Your father was one of his subordinates, below him, and she seemed to like to remind you of that every five minutes. She talked down to you endlessly, and seemed jealous of the attention her brother gave you, but you had absolutely no room to complain to Fuyuhiko about it after what his father had done for you, so you just didn’t. As far as he knew, you and his sister were on good, neutral terms. She was mean and a smart-ass to everyone, so he didn’t expect you two to be having sleepovers and make friendship bracelets, but he figured you liked her, and she didn’t hate you.

     You could sense a deep insecurity in Natsumi: a need to be recognized, a want to be in the main course, an inferiority complex that you sometimes saw in other Kuzuryu’s you knew, so you tried to always be nice to her. Everyone has their struggles, and her aggressive personality was how she pushed back hers. She was in your life for good, if you wanted to stay with Fuyuhiko, and besides, you promised him you’d look after her. And so, you kept your chin up and walked to class with a smile...until you opened the classroom door.

     “I’m telling you, Kuzuryu, I don’t care who your father is, none of us do! You’re in the Reserve Course just like us because you’re no better than anyone else here!” The green haired girl, Sato, Natsumi’s current and longest-standing arch-enemy, loomed over Natsumi, her face red with anger and hands balled into trembling fists at her side. Really...they’re starting early today...school just started.

     “Move your stupid face and smelly breath out of my face before I move it for you!” Natsumi spat back, leaning further into the argument. You quickly ran and stood between them. Every day was like this, with you or your classmate Hajime Hinata - a plain boy with a big heart - breaking it up before it escalated. But it was wearing on you, having been going on for over a month.

     “What the fuck did you say, bitch?! Just because your dad is some thug criminal doesn’t mean no one can touch you! You’re testing my patience!” Sato’s hand raised, and your own shot out and grabbed her by the wrist.

     “Woah, woah!” Your breath was shaky. “What’s it about, today, guys? What happened?” Sato was mad about you stopping her, of course, but she liked you, certainly more than she did Natsumi, and she respected you and Hajime for always looking out for your classmates, even if she didn’t want to admit it. After all, you’d stuck up for her and others just as much as Natsumi over the course of the semester - not taking Natsumi’s side so much as simply diffusing the situation - so she paused her attack, huffing. You couldn’t actually believe Sato raised her hand to Natsumi. They always bickered, every single day, but it hadn’t gotten physical, yet.

     “She’s talking shit about Mahiru again! I told this bitch to stay away from Mahiru and keep her name out of her mouth, but of course her jealousy knows no limits!” Sato spat, and you looked to Natsumi as if for confirmation. Just then, Hajime Hinata, as well as your professor, waltzed into the room together, just a little late after the bell. Upon seeing the scene before them, Mr. Nakamura spoke out:

     “What’s going on here? I’m a few minutes late and you guys think class should turn into a free-for-all? Get to your seats!” You looked to Natsumi, then Sato.

     “Guys, this isn’t worth it, please…” Your eyes pleaded softly. Sato scowled, turning away and returning to her seat. Natsumi pushed past you, her lips close to your ear.

     “I’ve told you before and I’m telling you again, I don’t need you fighting my fuckin’ battles for me…” she whispered, her tone flat and menacing, “I don’t care if you’re dating my brother, if you get in my way again, I’ll handle you and Sato.” You knew she didn’t mean it. She was hotheaded like her brother, and at this moment she felt bested by Sato, not having gotten to say her piece and have the final word in the argument. She was embarrassed and angry. So you let her go back to her seat without a response or retort.

     When the class period ended, you caught Natsumi walking past Sato as everyone was leaving the room, speaking harshly. “Hey, Sato, raise a hand to me again, and I’ll fucking kill you.”

~

     You were in the back of a sleek limousine, sitting on Fuyuhiko’s lap, your arms around his neck as he attacked your neck with rough kisses. Being alone in the back was nice and all, but it felt so...off. Usually, Natsumi rode along with you, and any friends that were riding back to the Kuzuryu east-side guesthouse after school to hang out. Friends and non-clan members weren’t allowed in the Kuzuryu main manor, it was far too dangerous, but the Kuzuryu’s owned many little extravagant homes, lounges, stores and clubhouses where you’d meet up and pass time with friends.

     “ ‘Hiko, why isn’t Natsumi here, again?”

     “I told you, some shit about a photography club meeting after school. You know she likes taking pictures and shit.” His brow furrowed at the interruption before going back to your neck. “Geez, just savor it. I rarely have time to be alone with you.” You pushed his shoulders back.

     “Y-yeah but, Natsumi isn’t in the photography club for the Reserve Course. I know because I’m in it...we don’t have a meeting this week.” You started to worry.

     “Whatever, who cares. Maybe she went off to give some kid a handy behind the school.” You rolled your eyes at his facetious tone and he smirked. “Why do you care? She’s fine.” He took his attack south to your collarbone, and you let him as you continued.

     “Well...it’s just…she’s been having issues with this girl in class and I’m worried…”

     “Issues?” His head popped up, face screwed up in an annoyed and anxious expression, but then melting into careful suspicion just as fast. “What kind of issues? I’m sure that if it was that bad, you’d have told me a while ago, yes?”

     “W-well, of course, but...I mean nothing’s happened, really…they usually just swear and insult each other, but today, things almost got physical…” He paused, thinking.

     “...what’s been going on?” Physical for a boy used to being around yakuza could mean anything from a fistfight to a bullet to the head, so he automatically assumed the worst most of the time.

     “I don’t know...they just hate each other. Natsumi doesn’t like this girl...Mahiru Koi...something. She’s in your class. She’s jealous of her, I think...and so Sato, the one Natsumi is fighting with, is defending Mahiru to be a good friend, but-“

     “Pfft! I thought you were gonna say something serious. This is petty high-school girl shit, s/o! If they wanna throw punches, break their nails and pull hair, let them. Natsumi and I see blood spilled every day. She can handle herself in a fight. Let her pop this Sato chick in the mouth, then. Who cares? Bet it will settle this little spat of theirs. You shouldn’t be so stressed about it.” His eyes softened, rubbing your back with one hand.

     “I know, it’s just...I mean you told me to look out for her, and it’s not like I don’t care about your sister, she’s like family to me…”

     “It’s not your job to babysit and bodyguard her. I just said that so you’d take the damn tuition money and I think you know that,” he snorted, shifting your position on his lap to kiss you on the forehead. “If she really needs someone like Peko, we’ll get her someone, but we both wanted to go to school without the clan’s influence. You know that…” he trailed off.

     “I know, but-“ the driver stopped abruptly.

     “I’ll see you after work. Don’t stress about this, seriously.” Fuyuhiko pushed your folded up work clothes into your hands, and you gave him a look of warning, as if to say ‘you aren’t taking this seriously’ before he gestured toward the limousine door, giving you a playful slap on the ass as you exited with the driver patiently holding the door open for you. “I love you.”

     “I love you, too, ‘Hiko,” you smiled before pushing through the large crystal doors on the upscale, Kuzuryu-owned men’s clothing boutique for your shift.

~

     The next day was like any other school day: dropped off at the gates, Fuyuhiko’s peck on your cheek, Natsumi walking with you to first period...but, what was that grin on her face…? She hated waking up early, she hated first period...she was always sluggish or irritable and waiting for her morning caffeine to kick in. You decided you were being paranoid, and shook it off.

     When you entered the classroom, the students were all huddled in the corner, surrounding Sato, who was screaming at Hajime about something.

     “-and I am not just gonna let this slide, Hinata! You better fuck of-“ Hajime saw you two enter, and Sato’s eyes followed his own, her rant cutting off. Locking eyes with Natsumi, who smirked back wickedly, she flew out of her seat, launching herself at your future sister-in-law. Natsumi fought back, her hands around Sato’s neck as Sato pulled her down to the ground.

     “Oh my-stop!” You pulled at Natsumi’s arms, everything seeming to happen so fast. She threw an elbow back toward you for interfering, and it hit your side roughly. You grimaced, the pain working hard but your adrenaline working harder. You thrust yourself between the girls, pulling Natsumi back with all of your might. Hajime rushed over, pulling Sato off the ground and holding her back as she kicked and swung.

     “I told you-! You-let go of me!!!” Natsumi resisted as well, and you and Hajime locked eyes, barely keeping hold of the two combatants.

     “What could possibly be worth all this!” You wheezed, Natsumi quickly overpowering you.

     “That cunt! Let me go, Hinata or I’ll fuck you up, too!” Sato roared, catching the attention of Mr. Nakamura, who rushed in and quickly pressed his authority, threatening both girls with suspension or worse if they spoke another word or touched each other. They were both sent to the headmaster’s office, with Hajime being asked to escort them since they ‘obviously needed to be monitored like children’.

     You sat in your desk seat, uniform askew, armpits wet with perspiration. Another student filled you in after class. Apparently, Natsumi had gone over to the photo development room in the main course’s wing after school, and ripped up each and every photo Mahiru was going to present at the upcoming photography competition on campus. Twenty photos for a gallery opening up tomorrow for student work. Twenty priceless, stunning photographs by the Ultimate Photographer, all gone. Oh...so that’s why Sato was so pissed. You had to admit, it was hard to defend Natsumi at this point. You released a breath you’d been holding in, putting your head down on your desk to just calm your thoughts before texting Fuyuhiko. You filled him in about what happened, every detail, and your thoughts on it, taking Sato’s side as gently as possible. You had hoped to get his counsel, simply wanting validation and reassurance that there was nothing to worry about, but you ended up only making it worse.

     Natsumi texted you about fifteen minutes later, calling you a fucking snitch and many other expletives, saying with malice that now her brother was on her case. Fuyuhiko then texted you saying he told Natsumi she better go straight to the limo after the last bell rang like a fire was lit under her ass, and that he wanted you to stand outside her last class and wait for her to make sure she did just that. You swallowed your spit down hard, throat going dry all of a sudden. You didn’t intend for this to happen. Now Natsumi was going to hate you, and Fuyuhiko is going to be in a bad mood. Why did you have to be so stupid? Why did Natsumi have to cause so much trouble? Maybe you should just let her suffer on her own, and stop stressing about it like Fuyuhiko said. This wasn’t fair, for you to feel like this because of her behavior.

~

     You left your last class a few minutes early, rushing to Natsumi’s classroom with an exhausted and anxious air about you. You found the class, and leaned on the wall beside the door, preparing for her to march out and scream at you and who knows maybe even strangle you because that’s what she was into now apparently and-

     Your ears perked up at a loud sound, like muffled yelling and a crash of glass. It sounded nearby, but far away at the same time. The yelling picked up, a bit louder now, and you felt yourself get nervous for no reason. It had to be on this floor, and close. You looked around, and held your bag close, sprinting down the hall. The sound got louder, confirming your suspicions until you were in front of the music room, with yelling and then a strangled cry coming from the other side. You panicked, fumbling with the door handle, but it wouldn’t budge. You pounded on the door, your breathing getting harder and faster. Backing up, you braced yourself, and ran at the door with the strength of fight-or-flight adrenaline in your veins, throwing your shoulder into the hard door and it flew open, slamming into the wall on the other side.

     “NATSUMI!” You didn’t have time to baby your injured shoulder, as the scene before you needed immediate action, obviously. A broken glass fish tank was scattered on the ground, gravel and quickly dying freshwater fish littering the floor. The room was a mess, with sheet music and desks knocked over and spilled out everywhere. Sato stood near the window, her hands around Natsumi’s neck in a vice-like grip, and Natsumi gasping and flailing, her eyes slowly rolling to the back of her head. “Sato, what the fuck are you thinking?!!!” You ran at her, and Sato didn’t even look in your direction, her mind clouded with hatred and blood lust. Knocking into Sato with all you had, she fell forward into the window, releasing Natsumi as the window splintered and cracked around her.

     Natsumi hit the the wall beside the window and fell to the floor, gasping and choking, her lungs clawing desperately for air. Sato leapt at her again, and you tackled her to the ground, looking up at Natsumi.

     “Go! GO! Fuyuhiko will be at the gates! Get him!” Natsumi looked shocked, traumatized, and simply stared at you, while Sato spat and growled and tried to buck you off, reaching for Natsumi’s skirt. “Get someone! Please!”

     “I-I told you I don’t need y-your help, s/o!” She tried to keep up her gangster’s-daughter persona even in her shaken-up state, but her voice betrayed her and tears sprung from her eyes. Sato threw you off and started to stand.

      “Run! Natsumi, RUN!!” She heard the seriousness in your voice, the fear, and she had never heard you sound like that before. You were her brother’s sensitive, pacifist, kind-hearted s/o, and here you were, in danger because of her. She shook off her pride, and ran toward the door as you grabbed Sato’s ankle and she tripped to the ground again. Natsumi disappeared down the hall, screaming for help the entire way.

      “Fuck you! Fuck you!! She deserved this! You ruined everything!” Sato sounded like an animal more than a high-school girl. She reached to her right, twisting her body around violently until she could reach a long shard of glass from the fish tank, and she brought it down hard on your thigh, the glass tearing into your flesh.

     You screamed out in pain, your vision blurring quickly at the shock of it, sobs coming immediately from your mouth. Blood gushed out of the inches-deep wound, and your heads involuntarily released Sato. When you steadied yourself, steeling your nerves, and reached out to try and neutralize her again, she pulled the glass out of your leg, slamming it down again, hitting a vein deeply before pulling it out. You yelped and forced yourself to stand as she did, blood spurting freely from your leg. You fell more than threw yourself onto her, your head beginning to spin and feeling consciousness leaving you slowly. Leaning on her, you wrapped your arms around her waist with all of your remaining energy, and gripped tightly, hoping you could at least burden her enough to make leaving to room slower and making it impossible for her to catch up to Natsumi or flee the scene before help came.

     Now with a great strength advantage over you, she arched her back, threw her head back, and slammed you behind her into the wall. Your head hit the wall with a crack, and immediately you slumped to the ground, your world going dark.

~

     “...hear me? S-.....” fuzziness. Emptiness. Darkness. “-lose you, please! You h-“ A voice faded in and out, then finally out for good. Hours later, you felt yourself stir.

     When your eyelids flew open, the ceiling above you was white, clean, calming.

     “S/o?!” Fuyuhiko? You sat up quickly, a pounding in your head making you gasp and whimper. “No, no! You need to stay down.” A hand on your chest softly guided you back onto the pillow below you. You turned your head to the side. You took in your surroundings slowly. A hospital. You were in a hospital bed, and Fuyuhiko had been in a chair beside you, now standing at your side. His hands flew to your face, cradling your cheeks. “You’re an idiot, you know that? Are you fucking crazy?” His words were harsh, but there was no anger behind them, only worry and pain. You felt the wrap of linen around your head wound, and adjusting your leg at all resulted in a sharp spike of pain shooting up your body.

     “Where’s Natsumi? Is she okay? Did Sato-“

     “I don’t wanna hear that bitch’s name. And why are you worried about Natsumi right now?!” Now there was anger. “You almost fucking died, s/o! I almost lost you!” His voice cracked on that last word, and your eyes widened at the tears that threatened to fall from his eyes before he angrily rubbed them away with his sleeve. “Natsumi’s fucking fine. She didn’t have anything more than a few bruises on her neck. Nothing’s broken or injured except her pride. And she will be coming to thank and apologize to you at length later.” You didn’t comment on that last bit, deciding instead to ask about what happened after you passed out.

     Natsumi found a security guard at the entrance, he explained, and he saw her screaming from his position at the school gates. He rushed over to yell at her and figure out what the hell was going on, before having her grab him by the wrist and force him into the school with stuttering gibberish about you and that you were in trouble or something like that with the security guard running close behind. When they got to the music room, the door was open and Sato was nowhere to be found.

     Fuyuhiko had screamed your name, his throat ripping apart as he swore and cried and snot ran down his face like a fool. He ran to what he thought was your corpse, blood splattered everywhere, pooling under you, a little patch of blood on the wall behind you head. He took in your closed eyes and thigh oozing slowly-drying blood, and picked you up into his arms, his clothes getting covered in the liquid. He screamed at Natsumi to call for the police, an ambulance, anything, while the security guard called for backup and went off to find Sato. You were brought immediately to the hospital along with Natsumi, and he’d been waiting by your bed ever since, just pleading, begging you to wake up. Sato was apprehended by police a few blocks from the school, obviously off her rocker and in a manic state.

     “You...you were almost gone. You lost...just so much blood,” he sniffled.

     “But, I’m here,��� you reached up and grabbed his hand, a comforting smile on your lips, “aren’t I?” He scoffed at you.

     “You fucking idiot,” he shook his head, leaning down and kissing you roughly on the lips, tears from his eyes falling onto your cheeks. “I fucking love you. Don’t make me worry like this.” He pulled back, face inches from yours.

     “I love you, too, so much.” You looked back at him with some indeterminable emotion washing over you. You were just overwhelmed.

     “I will always love you. Please, don’t leave me.”

[indecisive-v]

NINJAMUFFIN DOING ANOTHER AMA ON TWITTER, HERE'S MORE SHIT FOR YA! keep in mind i'm just sharing the funkin related stuff, though i am including WAAAAY more than what i shared before 👍 go check out ninja's twitter profile for questions about stuff like ritz! questions in blue, answers in orange. if yall don't wanna read everything i MIGHT make a version of this post where i replace the answers with my own summaries of em (and if the questions are long, those too)

and here's a link to the ama tweet itself! dunno if it's still goin

Q: I figure the answer will be yes but do you have more plans to implement more guest appearances from people in the newgrounds community into FNF? Or are you all gunna focus on OG lore and stuff going forward

A: for guest appearances, I think we have always seen it as getting a healthy mix of both. PERSONALLY I'd like to lean towards having more OG stuff than guest stuff, BUT it's all a matter of what other boys think of that as well. I'm not the sole person working on game!

Q: Are you gonna release the full FNF game or are you gonna be releasing week after week? Like, are you gonna release week 8 or are we gonna wait some years until The Full Ass Game comes out?

A: Release plan for FNF right now is a few more updates or whatev to the 'demo' we have out right now, and then a long silence of probably no updates whatsoever until the full game is done (which will likely be a few years). That's partly why we made kickstarter for game.

Q: Hey so like, how much will Fnf cost after it's finished? And when will you ask the supporters what they want the game on?

A: It's all subject to change, but right now it prob gonna be standard 15-25$ lil steam indie game.

We will ask Kickstarter pledgers and whatnot what they want the game on SUPER close to when its released, to keep options open if we get onto anything like a console people want.

Q: 1. how was your day

2. are you releasing a week 8 song early like week 7, or are you goin full lockdown

A: I am doing GOOD today, and I think recently I've been good in general.

up to the mood, but so far we doing good about not having anything leak or whatev, so I think it'd be fun to have update come out with people not knowing what to expect at all. Build dat intrigue

Q: Will fnf ever get official plushies?? Seems like an untapped market

A: FNF plushies will prob happen some point, we have a lot of current merch stuff on our plates already though! (Mostly kickstarter type stuff, shirts, pins, posters, and all the physical OST stuff) Its a lot to sort out, but in time more and more stuff will happen. We r jus 4 boys!

Q: did you ever expect your game to blow up as it did? what was your first reaction to seeing it become super popular

A: FNF never had a humble moment, literally day 1 before the prototype even came out, the vid on twitter had like 5K likes overnight. Then when ludum dare version came out, it got 5K likes again, like it wasnt just a fluke. Was crazy, and def felt like somethin was different wit FNF

Q: Do you plan on getting other people to come in to help with the music? That seems like a lot of work to dump on one person, what with the erect mode and whatnot.

I guess the question could apply to all aspects of development. Will you be bringing on more people to help?

A: We definitely are getting help from other people. We are always keeping an eye on people for various different things. In terms of programming, already I've gotten 2 people (MtH and Geokureli) to help with certain Week 7 stuff (charting/polish, and loading stuff). Shit like dat

Q: Oh, also, will the Steam version be Workshop compatible? That'd really help streamline the process of downloading mods.

A: Steam version of FNF will likely NOT be Steam workshop compatible, because we want all the mods to NOT be spread out through different places. There WILL be modding support that is as streamlined as Steam workshop though. Mainly for non-steam versions of the game!

Q: Are there any chances that the game will have a physical release? Also any updates on a switch port? I remember one of you guys talking/joking about it.

A: Not impossible for FNF to get a physical release. We would want to see how far we could go with it though. I think it'd be super easy to do something wit people like LimitedRun games or whatev, but I think stuff like that can only go so far. I wanna see Funkin in mf Walmart!!!!!!

not that LimitedRun isn't going to be an option! Just we consider and pursue many different things! FNF release is years away, so we have time to think about everything. Whole mindset can be different just a few months from now.

Q: Out of curiosity, how are you dealing with all the popularity? It blew up so fast id barely be able to handle it if I was in your shoes.

A: The only way I've been able to handle it is having the other boys on the crew and being able to talk to them about all the overwhelmingness.

Part of it feels very lonesome, feels like NO ONE can come close to comprehending exactly how I'm feeling, except them. also other PALS!!!

Q: Do you own any of the bootleg FNF merchandise? Like any bootleg plushies or anything?

A: i dont, i genuinely think they r a waste of money, and I know any bootleg shit that gets made, we can prob go about and make it, and make it 100x cooler because we actually put effort into shit. bootleg shit just in it for the coin, so they aint gettin that from me

Q: How did you go about getting in contact with sr pelo for skid and pumps vocals?

A: Pelo i think was familiar and pals wit PhantomArcade a bit thru various Newgrounds things and collabs and whatnot.

pelo retweeted the first OG FNF posts first ever, and brought a LOT of attention to it. to pay him back, we put skid and pump in game! ask dave for more info prob

Q: what's the plan for having the full ass game open source if it's gonna cost money? couldn't people just download the source and compile the game for free?

A: when FNF is fully released, the full source code will be released as well.

the game will be DRM free so it will be way easier for people to redistribute the released/offical .exe instead of compiling it, so that's not the issue anyways. people will pay for things if they like it

Q: What are the chances of it getting on consoles like switch or Playstation, ps5 would definitely be my preferred way to play

A: it'd be a matter of hiring someone to build out backend stuff for those specific consoles. someone who knows their way around all the wacky code stuff, AND knows console hardware stuff. Then its just a matter of hittin up those console manufacturers (Sony, Microsoft, or Nintendo)

the CLOSEST one is SWITCH. pretty much all of that backend is already made, so it just a matter of gettin all that access and shit.

i think in any case though, there's a lot of NDA stuff required, i dunno how much we'd be able to talk about it even IF we get that stuf sorted

Q: any ideas of releasing it on epic store or another platform?

A: Right now, the only thing that is 100% confirmed and WILL happen is a Steam version, itchio version, and mobile versions on respective app stores. Other storefronts aren't out of the picture though, but we don't want to spread ourselves too thin with it.

Q: Will you continue using HaxeFlixel to make the rest of FNF?

A: yes, because it is what I'm the most technically proficient in, and generally is VERY flexible. just a matter of ME becoming a better coder. It's ALL open source, so if I need something done a certain way, either I can do it, or we can hire someone to do it.

Q: have you seen game theory's videos on your game yet and if so, what do you think about them? (not talking about his predictions because i dont want spoilers. i like mystery)

A: it is always good silly fun to watch the Game Theory vids about Funkin with some pals, and see what matpat thinks of the game. i lov the vids, but wish he used my face less! Or at least used a cuter pic of me like this one!!

Q: Ok so: What does the future of FNF look like to you?

A: future of FNF is a rhythm game that not only exceeds every expectation that people have of it, but subverts most expectations and conventions as well.

Q: Do you plan on retouching on older weeks once the game is fully out? Like reanimating sprites, redoing some charting, updating the background, etc

A: retouching and probably overhauling certain aspects is almost definitely gonna happen. Everything is fluid and can be changed (and should be changed when necessary). i dont think anything should be too attached to, especially this early on in development

Q: I honestly do not care if the answer to this is vague as hell to keep surprises and shit lol but… Since Week 7 was the closest we’ll get to a playable girlfriend (still bf controlling tho), do you have plans to make girlfriend playable in spin-off things or just freeplay?

A: wouldnt be out of the picture for a playable GF, i don't think we've had some hard thing AGAINST it. just a matter of what we want out of the game, and what sort of story or whatev we could do with that concept

Q: How do BF and GF manage to meet famous newgrounds characters (such as pico, tankman and the others to come) like is this all in one universe/ timeline or are they being brought in?

A: i think they are all just there existing. i think there's a lot of wacky things in other media that try to justify crossovers, like MULTIVERSE bullshit or TIMELINE shit, but i dunno, its like subspace emissary. Captain Falcon and Olimar from Pikmin just hang out. Shit like dat

disclaimer that all lore shit is in phantomarcade head pretty much and maybe there is wacky dimensions or somethin

Q: Will the game have dlc?

A: its not too unlikely that we'd have expansions of some sort, but i mean right now we plan on packing in as much as we can into base game, and trying to make that as pure as possible.

if there is ANY dlc, i would personally want it to be 100% free updates

Q: How did you meet Phantom Arcade, Kawai Sprite, and EvilSker? And what do you think about the community and its controversies?

A: me and phantomarcade been fukin around NG for years so years and years ago we naturally crossed paths and became pals

about 2 years ago i found kawaisprites music on NG, and started talkin wit him, made Ritz wit him and we fell in lov

and evilsk8r i met cuz of FNF!!!

quik elaborate on evilsk8r, wanted artist for gamejam FNF was for (ludum dare), and OG person i asked wasnt available, so he referred me to evilsk8r, who I have never met or talked to before ever.

[restructuralcommittee]

Want to be featured in the No. 6 convention’s Artist Alley or Dealer’s Room?

Artist Alley: a place for active No. 6 creators (artists, writers, cosplayers, crafters, etc.) to promote their work for everyone to enjoy

Dealer’s Room: a place for anyone selling No. 6 merch in their Etsy/Redbubble/Storenvy/website/etc. to promote their merch to potential customers

Anyone who wants can join the artist alley or dealer’s room, but we ask that merchants have at least one No. 6-themed item in their shop and and creators (artists, writers, cosplayers, crafters, etc.) have at least one No. 6 work in their gallery/portfolio/art blog/art tag/ao3/etc.

How to be featured:

1. Fill out the artist alley template or the dealer’s room template, which are available here in .psd or .png:

[http://www.mediafire.com/file/bw6ygktz01k0d1e/reunionwillcontemplates.zip/file]

At least one No. 6 work should be featured in the filled-out template. You are welcome to use the space however you want or change the colour scheme to whatever you want. We do ask that you retain the general layout of the template, however. If you do not have image editing software, you may submit a thoughtful text description of your store or portfolio and (optionally) provide one image instead.

2. Join the Reunion Will Con discord server with the link in this post: [https://restructuralcommittee.tumblr.com/post/621820746445045760/mark-it-on-your-calendars-no6-fans-reunion-will]

3. Check the #information channel to find the discord handle of the mod who processes artist alley/dealer’s room submissions, and DM them your filled-out template + a link to your store or portfolio/etc. + any other information you want people to know about you and/or your work!

(Note: the reason we are not allowing people to post images directly into the artist alley and dealer’s room is because con attendees are not allowed to post pictures in the server. This is to reduce the harm that any potential trolls can cause and make the convention more safe for everyone.)

If you have any questions, feel free to send the Restructural Committee an ask OR simply join the server and ask there!

The con starts on September 4th, and we will be accepting submissions until the 7th of September. We look forward to seeing everyone’s creations and we hope to see you at the con!

[adaru32]

The Red Devil’s Chronicles’ November 2020 DMC News Updates: S.E, Pizza Recipe, Etc.

Hey, how's it going? Here are this month's Devil May Cry related news updates: 1. DMCV Special Edition has been released. (Trailer 1) (Trailer 2) b) Speaking of which, here's a translation summary I compiled of an interview with Matt Walker, Hideaki Itsuno, and Junya Kumabe. c) Can't remember if I mentioned in another entry, but PC modders are adding their own variations of Special Edition's features for PC players as a mod. 2. Besides Vergil becoming playable in DMCV, he'll be playable in the Pinnacle of Combat mobile game.   3.New HYDE lyrics music video, featuring DMCV Special Edition.   4. CapCom was attacked by a ransomware, and had the following files effected.   5. An example on what Raytracing looks like for some cutscenes in DMCV.   6. nabehands on Twitter has been making a Sin DT Dante figure (You may recognize this sculpting artist from February's updates where a Nero one was made as well). 7. PS5 game Astro's Playroom features Dante as an easter egg. 8. You can now make Dante's favourite pizza in your own home. 9. Can't remember if this has been shared already, but SteamForged's Devil May Cry V: Bloody Palace board game can now be bought. 10. Once again, the Visions of V manga continues with 2 more updates.

 My Thoughts On These Updates:

(Gonna skip some of these updates due to having no comment on them) 1. I've been trying to avoid DMCV Special Edition's story and gameplay content spoilers, so I don't know about what it fully offers. The only spoilers I've seen were whatever's featured in the interview, a little bit of Vergil's Ex-Provocation taunt, and the new boss featured in his gameplay. I also don't have a PS5. I'm waiting for the Vergil DLC for PS4 that's supposed to launch mid-December, so I'll get my experience then. 2. Nice to know that playable Vergil for Pinnacle of Combat that was featured as a rumour in August's updates wasn't a rumour after all. 4. It really sucks that CapCom got attacked. A friend of mine (and fellow co-admin) in my Facebook group mentioned that CapCom wasn't the only company that's been targeted with ransomware activity as of late. Makes you wonder what these hackers' intentions are. 5. I gotta say that the Raytracing does make it look a tad bit better. Meanwhile, PC modders are being salty about it and think it looks "ugly". That is their opinions, but still...I think I detect a hint of jealousy in these claims of theirs'... 6. nabehands did an amazing job on those figures. Wonder if a Sin DT Vergil one will be made next. 7. Haven't played Astro's Playroom due to having no PS5. Never heard of this game till today while searching for Devil May Cry news updates. That's an adorable Easter egg. 8. About time particular gaming staff share a recipe based off a video game, especially Dante's pizza. Now it's only a matter of time till someone shares CapCom Cafe's recipes, lol. 9. Yeah, my memory of mine's been losing its photographic abilities, so I can't remember what updates have been shared here anymore. But glad to know that SteamForged's Kickstarter was a success. 10. As mentioned in the previous updates, I'm curious to know how long this Visions of V series is gonna go on for. Looking forward to what more they have in store.

[skvaderarts]

Hiraeth Chapter 10: Promises

Masterlist can be found Here!

Chapter Ten: Promises

Note: Almost there, everyone! Hang in there just a little bit longer! The Angst is almost over. Well, the past angst, at least. Also, how have you been this week?

-~-

Nothing was visible under the shroud of darkness that blanked his eyes, the faint warmth provided by the light on his skin the only indication that sunlight might still be present. He was relatively sure that he was blinking, but he still couldn’t see anything that might be present around him. His senses were somewhat dull, the only thing he could hear or feel being a strange and unwelcome tightness in his shoulders, and the low rumble of something beneath him. V was entirely unsure as to what was going on in that moment or how he’d ended up in this situation.

And then he suddenly remembered everything.

Flashes of bits and pieces of his memories played across his mind like a slideshow of snapshots of moments past, rendering him totally still with shock. That was right! They had been waylaid by a group of irate villagers who had been working with the insane sociopaths that had attacked their quiet little village just a few hours ago! Was it even still the same day? Regardless, he vaguely remembered being knocked upside the head after two very painful tumbles down a cliff, and after that, the only thing that he could recall was waking up… wherever he was now. His throbbing head was a perfect indication of the fact that he might, in fact, have brain damage by this point. He was so painfully aware of the fact that he knew nothing about anything at that moment that it physically took his breath away.

Panic set in earnest a moment later when something significantly more distressing occurred to him. Where on earth was Morgan?! Oh no, what had they done with that poor little girl?! Practically every ounce of concern he had for himself fell away as his breath picked up and he began to quietly panic, trying his best to calm himself before he went spiraling over the edge. Guilt and horror his him like a tidal wave as he realized that he’d left her alone with that group of morally compromised lunatics, and now, as a result, he didn’t have the slightest idea as to what had become of her. 

V trembled in horror. He had never once felt such a profound feeling of regret before for something that he hadn’t intended to do. While it was true that he had no way of knowing that the people in the neighboring town would be such willingly murderous turncoats, that didn’t change anything as far as he was concerned. It wouldn’t matter as far as Morgan was concerned one way or another. His actions, involuntary as they were, could still get her killed, and that was something that he had to reckon with. But first, he needed to find out what had become of his young companion. Then he could go from there. He just hoped that it wasn’t too late

Just as he opened his mouth, a secondary figure shushed him in a hurried tone, suddenly gripping him by the shoulders and shaking him slightly as if to snap him out of something. V went totally rigid, his inability to see getting the better of him as he hoped internally that this wasn’t one of the men they’d encountered in the village. He still had no meaningful way of contending with an armed mod, and that was something that he was going to have to come up with a meaningful response to.

He felt a rough tug that lurched him forward slightly, a commanding voice demanding that someone “knock it off” with the perceived threat of retaliation if they didn’t. As soon as they released him, he heard what he thought was a commotion, and then whatever surface was beneath him lurched harshly, turning to the side as it seemingly hit something beneath him. It was only then as he heard an old engine strain that he realized that he was in some kind of vehicle. Or, more than likely, the back of some kind of vehicle. He bounced slightly before making full-body impact with the hard metal surface he was lying prone on, hissing slightly in discomfort as his head and upper body throbbed from the involuntary movement. Oh, that was right. He was sore as hell wasn’t he? That fall had really done a number on him, hadn’t it?

Suddenly there was a startled shout from the man who had spoken before, and then a loud knocking thump vibrated through the vehicle as someone screamed distantly as though they were falling. At that moment, V got the distinct feeling that between that sound and the angle that he was leaned at that he might be higher up than he originally guessed. There was a part of him that was somewhat relieved that he couldn’t see whatever had just happened, but he still needed to get out of there. He strained to sit up, realizing that the pain he’d been feeling in his shoulders was due to the fact that his wrists were bound tightly behind his back. He needed to figure out what was going on and find a way to get free as soon as possible. No, sooner than that. He’d been out of time the moment he’d come to in the back of this vehicle.

“... I-is… is someone there? Hello?” He trembled slightly as he spoke, all too aware of the fact that he was taking a huge risk by speaking. He might be better off not saying anything than gaining the attention of someone undesirable. And from what he could tell, everyone they had encountered that day fell into that category. What the hell was going on, and where on earth was he headed? And why couldn’t he see anything still? Had he somehow managed to go blind into the bargain?

The same hands that had gripped him before suddenly grabbed him as they lurched further to the side, steadying him as he nearly tumbled to what he could only assume was further harm. In an instant, his muffled hearing and blindness departed him, and he was suddenly able to see again, his lungs sucking in the fresh air that he hadn’t noticed until then that he was missing. He blinked, shaking his head as he tried to adjust to the dim light. It had to be nearly sundown from what he could tell, but none of that mattered as much to him as the sight that stood before him.

It was Morgan. She was still alive.

Despite the fact that she had a busted lip and looked a little worse for wear, she seemed to be okay, and that was the only thing about the situation that he found himself in that actually brought him some measure of comfort. A quick glance around him was all that it took for him to realize that they were on some kind of backroad headed back up towards the mountain. He could still see the village they’d come from below them on the mountain, so they hadn’t gotten very far, but now he wasn’t sure exactly what to do about the situation they were in.

“Morgan… you’re safe. That’s a relief. I was worried.” V sighed in relief and looked down towards the bed of the pickup truck they were in, something occurring to him suddenly. “There was someone else in this truck with us, wasn’t there? Where did he go?”

The young teen looked at him funny, an almost humorous glint in her eyes. She pointed over her shoulder toward the ravine that they were currently driving dangerously close to the edge of. It had to be at least a good seventy feet or more before you even reached the tops of the towering pine trees below. V felt his stomach lurch slightly as he realized that the only thing between them and a fatal fall was the far too low edges of a worn-out old truck that probably had no business navigating this terrifying road in the first place. For goodness sake, the dirt trail didn’t even have a guard rail! What lunatic had conceived of a road this dangerous in the first place?

“What do you think he went, V? I kicked him off the goddamn truck!” She said as though it were exceedingly obvious, a sort of “no duh” look on her face. After all, there was only one place he could have gone when they were in such a remote location in the back of a moving vehicle. “Fuck that guy! He’s one of the guys who’s trying to kill us! Well, he was, at least. Now he’s probably dead. I don’t think anyone including us could survive a fall from this high up. Were in kind of a tight spot, aren’t we?”

V had never been so happy to hear a teenager curse in his entire life.

A look of sadness suddenly crossed her face as he considered their options. From what he could tell, something was weighing heavily on her, and that was something that he more than understood given their current situation. But he hoped that she could hold on long enough for them to make their escape, however, they were going to manage to do that. Jumping over the edge was totally out of the question, but maybe they could climb out of the back of the truck? It had to be a better option than whatever the villagers had in store for them. But before they could do that, he needed to check with her to see if it was something that she was capable of doing. After all, it was a risky gamble.

“Morgan… are you alright?” He asked quietly, glancing back at the people driving the pickup truck. It seemed that due to the noisy truck that they were driving, and the fact that their uphill trek was straining their engine, they hadn’t heard a single thing that had transpired in the last few minutes. If that was the case, then this might be their best opportunity to escape. “If your still willing to trust me, then I might have a plan. It’s risky, however.”

She huffed slightly, shaking her head as she looked up with a hint of tears in her eyes. V felt for her, but he didn’t know how or what to do to help. And at that moment in time, they had more pressing matters to attend to. This situation was hard on them both, but he could only imagine what kind of toll it took on her. She wasn’t that much younger than he was, but he had to admit that despite everything, he knew that he wouldn’t have taken the situation that she was in as well as she had. Her resolve was astonishing.

“Of course I still trust you, V! None of this is your fault. You did the best you could.” Her voice cracked sadly as whatever had been hurting her so deeply come to the forefront of her mind and overflowed, the floodgates holding back the pain that she felt cracking and springing a leak that forced her to try and get at least a little bit of what she was feeling off of her chest. “So many people have died today. I don’t even want to think about it. Look, I know this is kind of a bad time and it might be a little bit insensitive, so I’m sorry, but I just want to see my mom again, ya know? I feel like such a selfish jerk for saying that.

V gave her a sympathetic look, unable to make eye contact with her. While he didn’t truly understand what she meant, he had a good idea. He’s felt something similar for most of his life, and he could only imagine what the idea of never seeing her family again might be doing to her. After all, neither of them had woken up that morning with the expectation that they might die at the hands of a mysterious group of mass-murderous. “I’d be remiss to hold anything you just said to me against you. I do know how you feel. At least I think I do. I’ve always wanted to know my birth family. I can’t imagine what the fear of losing them would do to me.” He looked up at her, a more serious look in his eyes. Her resolve had strengthened his own.”What it might make me do. Let’s get out of this truck and make a run for it. We can work on a plan after that. I promised to keep you safe, and I haven’t reneged on that deal, even if I have done a lousy deal up until now.”

She nodded, wiping her eyes. “Okay, that sounds good. I’m tired, but I’m not too tired to run for my life. I just hope the police make it in time.”

V gave her a curious look, his eyes widening slightly as he tried to take in the gravity of what she had just said. “The police? How would they know we are even here?”

Morgan cracked a small smile, wincing slightly as her busted lip stung as the muscles in her face moved. “Because I called them. Finally got some reception. I took it out to text my mom and tell her what happened, and noticed that I had just enough signal to call for help. That’s how I got this busted lip in the first place. That asshole I kicked overboard slapped me and snatched my phone from me while I was in the middle of the call, but I managed to tell them what was going on and where we were.” She took the phone out of her pocket, gesturing towards the broken screen. V wasn’t entirely sure what to make of its state, but he hoped that she was still able to make a call for help if she needed to. “I can’t imagine that they aren’t far off from here. Maybe a half-hour or so by car to the next major city? Yea, let’s go with that. At least I got my phone back.”

He nodded, exhaling in relief. Yes, that would hopefully make things better. After all, the police had guns as well. He could only hope that they would send enough reinforcements to overcome what was going on here. “Excellent work. Let’s save them some footwork and get out of her, shall we?”

She nodded, looking over the edge of the truck. “Were not moving that fast, but you’re already hurt. You sure you can make that jump?”

The young white-haired man nodded. “I’ll manage, for both our sakes. We’re far beyond the realm of optimal situations at this point.”

Morgan nodded as they scooted towards the edge of the truck. Now that his back was exposed, she took the time to untie the rags that held his wrists together, allowing him a moment of reprieve to finally relax his shoulders and allow them to fall against his sides. A quick glance down at the ground was all that it took to realize that they weren’t going that fast, more than likely due to the rough terrain that the truck was driving over. But that was a double-edged sword. It would have probably been less painful to land on smooth pavement than the mess or gravel, rocks, and dirt that laid below them, but they didn’t have much of a choice. And either way, it was better than dying.

Broken bones healed over time. Being dead didn’t.

With one last careful glance at one another, they each took a deep breath and exhaled before moving to exit the truck. V slowly clambered over the edge of the truck and dropping onto the pavement below, unable to make himself jump and attempting to do less damage to his already thoroughly banged-up body. Morgan didn’t possess such qualms, leaping over the edge and rolling to a stop on the pavement below. When they both stood, they were battered, scratched, and more than likely bruised, but they were both still alive. Mustering what little strength that still remained within them, they took off running, cutting through the edge of the woods in an attempt to throw off anyone who might be following them.

It occurred to V at that moment that they were in a strange situation. Now they had two possible pursuers, the odds thoroughly stacked against them in every way that they could be. After all, they were headed back towards the town, but what would they do once they got there? What would they do if they came up against resistance in the woods on their way? He would do his best to keep them both safe, but the odds of him actually being able to fight off an armed individual with no weapons of his own were slim at best and hopeless in a more realistic sense. But he was still going to try.

As the snow started to fall from above them, V shook his head. Of course, it would decide to snow right then, wouldn’t it? As if the chilly winter wind wasn’t already enough of an obstacle in their path. A quick glance over at morgan was all it took to confirm that she shared his sentiments, an irritated look plastered across her face. All they had to do was keep going, but everything seemed to want to keep them from doing that.

“Oh, by the way, I’m sorry that I left your bag behind when they moved us. It’s probably still there, though. They just left it sitting in the snow.” She shivered heavily as they continued forward, trying her best to see what was in front of her as the snow continued to fall. It seemed to pick up in intensity, but that could have just been the wind. It was becoming harder and harder for them to tell. “I heard one of these maniacs say that some of the townspeople staged a fight of some sort. I guess some of them didn’t like the fact that they were helping murders, you know, murder people. Who could have guessed! Anyway, maybe some of them might be willing to help us out. I don’t know.”

V nodded, clearing his throat as they rushed forward. His throat burned, and his eyes were watering slightly from the bitter cold as they came through the edge of the woods and into the street. It was an intersection that connected the road that lead to their town, the town that they were in, and the access road that they had just come down. As soon as they stepped out into the road, a van came barreling around the corner, the door swinging. Both V and Morgan froze in terror as they realized that there was nowhere to run. They’d be recaptured and taken to the waiting hands of their aggressors, only this time in a much harder to escape vehicle.

“Well, what are you waiting for?! Get in! We have to get out of here!” The woman holding the car door open shouted to them, a worried look on their face. There were two children in the car with her, hiding amongst a crowded mess of other worried-looking passengers. They seemed to be genuinely scared for their life, something that neither of them were expecting to see when the car had pulled up. “They can’t be more than a minute or two behind us! We have to leave. Were going to the police in the next city over. Hurry up! Were out of time!”

Morgan looked over at V, a questioning look on her face. She seemed to want to capitalize on the opportunity, but she clearly needed him to be okay with it before she felt safe doing so. “What do you think we should do, V? Should we trust them?”

It was hard to say what possessed him to make the decision that he did in that situation, but he glanced back over his shoulder the sound of a distant but familiar vehicle approaching in the distance. They were right, it couldn’t be more than a few minutes behind them, having come down the same path that they had just run down. It seemed that they had missed their presence. But that didn’t change the fact that they had guns, and these people in the car had young children. It stood to reason that they would chase after them and, old as the truck might be, it probably still had more horsepower than the van did. And then there was what Morgan had said to him in the woods about the strange occurrences with the young men in the town. He was willing to bet that they were probably after him.

The van needed a chance to get away unnoticed, and he could give them that. Maybe that was all he could give them. All he could truly do to keep what few people were still alive safe. He couldn’t fight their attackers, but he could lead them away, and allow everyone else the chance they needed to get away.

He could do that.

“... I think you should go, Morgan. We’re out of time.” He turned in the direction of the hill that sat at the crucks of the three-way intersection. It would be harder for a truck to go down such a steep hill than it would be for him to run down. And the police would be here any minute anyway. If they were after him, then they wouldn’t notice everyone else make their escape. 

She looked at him as though he’d just punched her in the face. “V… I can’t just. They’ll kill you if they catch you!”

A small, sad smile spread across his face. Yes. Yes, they would. But he wouldn’t let them. “I’ll catch up. Go. Please. This won’t be the last time we see each other.”

Morgan wiped barely hidden tears from her face as she back towards the car, unable to do anything but respect his request. “That another promise?”

V nodded. How did he know she would ask him that? “Yes. Yes, it is.”

She nodded, quietly pleading with him. “And you keep your promises, right V?”

He nodded again, understanding what she was really asking him. “I try to. I really do.”

With a heavy sigh, she turned towards the van, giving him one last parting glance before she climbed aboard. “Keep this one too, V. Keep this one too. I’m begging you.” 

As soon as the door closed, they pulled off and towards the city. As the van left his line of sight, for what had to be the first time since everything had started that day, he didn’t feel the sinking fear in the pit of his stomach that he knew he should. Morgan was safe at least. He’d done something worth doing, even if it might cost him dearly. And now he had to get to safety himself. This time he wasn’t going down without a fight, but he needed to get something first. The truck would be there any moment, and he had no time to lose.

-~-

Whew. Yea, so this chapter hurt, didn’t it? I’m not crying, your crying! Anyway, see you on Friday. V had dug himself into one hell of a hole. Now he’s gonna have to get out of it. Well, I dug him into the hole because I love him and so he has to suffer, but you know what I mean! I swear, I’m not normally this mean!

[plasticgardengnomes]

Snowy Escape Musings

Just some thoughts on the new expansion AND the new free updates. Just gotta get it out somewhere! Under the cut so as not to bother anyone with a potentially long post of my personal opinions haha.

I am so excited to be able to have rental/vacation lots on non vacation worlds! While I am sad that you can’t live in Selvadorada I am at least USED to that since in both TS2 and TS3 you couldn’t live in vacation worlds without mods (although sims 4 is supposed to IMPROVE upon these features but I digress). I can’t wait for bed and breakfasts in Windenburg and tropical resorts in Sulani! 

I’m not a very good builder but it is awesome that you can do split levels purely for the awesome builds I know are going to come from the community. Can’t wait to download them!

Sentiments seem interesting. I’ve seen a lot about how they have the potential to be rendered completely useless due to the fact that the buffs they give can be easily overtaken by other buffs. In the stream this sim had a rage buff from being near an enemy with a +1 and was EASILY negated by all the energetic buffs he had from various things. I hope modders might be able to adjust it and make it more meaningful and impactful. Otherwise it’s a neat idea. Definitely not what we needed (i.e. overhauling the already bland and useless trait, whim, and relationship system OR adding a decent memory system) but cool nonetheless.

Lifestyles are...eh. I miss hobbies from sims 2. There really don’t seem to be very many lifestyles and frankly they just seem like what the traits SHOULD be (i.e. add buffs, make certain tasks easier and others more difficult, affect needs or skill gains). Like we already have an active, romantic, outdoorsy, etc. trait that should have already been doing what the lifestyles are now going to do so...falls flat for me. And there just aren’t enough to make your sims unique especially considering how shallow and basic they are. I would have preferred that they just fix the traits and add a hobbies/interests system like sims 2 had. Oh and fixed the whims that they seem to just be avoiding lol.

The world itself looks visually great. I like the addition of unique cultural things that also add some gameplay (can you take your shoes off in any world? Please say yes. I don’t know anybody here in the US who keeps their shoes on indoors). The build/buy looks awesome. CAS looks awesome. Sims 4 is nothing if not a pretty game. The mascot is pretty cute. I love the addition of actual hiking and being able to go as a group and autonomously take pictures (do they actually save anywhere?). The festivals seem alright. I don’t mind the festivals in City Living IN THEORY but in practice I do them once with each new family and then never go again because....why? They are also buggy and not worth the effort. We’ll see how these go.

The new activities are, again, cool. The hot pot at the kotatsu (I believe that’s right) is awesome. The snow sports are very cool (but too bad you can’t just go sledding in other worlds). I already love the little Simmies that you can collect as collectables ALWAYS add more gameplay and fun to sims. Again hiking looks fun but I really hope it applies to Granite Falls because...that would make sense there’s literally no reason why you shouldn’t be able to really hike in that world. Festivals I talked about above along with Yamachan. Onsen/hot springs are also pretty nice but we’ll see how much it really does for your sims that makes it better than just a hot tub or sauna. Am I missing any gameplay? Oh yea, mountain climbing.

Here’s the thing...I’m not sold on the mountain climbing. It seems boring to me. You’re just having sims climb different levels and making sure their needs don’t decay too much. Then you get to the top and it’s empty. Yes you can build on there but is it really worth that effort to go back up afterwards? And the little cave you can explore is pointless to me. What happened to the what they did for basegame in Willow Creek and Oasis Springs where going in those holes (tree or mine) actually took you somewhere? Either way I don’t think I’ll be risking my sims life for mountain climbing in this pack. 

All those deco buildings that you can’t do anything with! So boring. So lifeless. Why are they so afraid of rabbit holes? Yes we can build our own retail stores but why should I have to use my empty lots on putting down a bunch of stores (unless I want to) when they could just include rabbit holes on those deco buildings? Seriously they could do this in every world like sims 3 (yes I know you put those on lots but you could also really customize worlds in that game so it’s different to me). Grocery store, gardening shop, clothes shop, etc. Plopsy has a randomized item list so I don’t see why they couldn’t also do that with these hypothetical rabbit holes too (different seeds, flowers, fresh produce, etc). Enough with all those boring swag stalls all over the place. Food stalls can stay. And anyway, I really miss souvenirs from sims 2/sims 3 can they please bring that back?!?

And you can’t use the train?!?! So lame. Seriously just...why focus on it so much in the trailer. That whole welcome wagon at the train station was just scripted junk. AND NO SIMSTAGRAM updates which stinks. Cute editing but would have been nice to make it a feature. Seriously if modders can (and do) add their own useable social media apps why can’t the sims just add more to the one they already have? They just teased us (probably unintentionally cause they just seem so oblivious sometimes).

Uniforms are cute but I really wish they added back private schools like the other games. The world specific addons really bother me because all these packs lately just seem to only be tied to whatever new world got added and it literally does nothing to build on basegame and if I’m not in that world I honestly forget what I even bought the packs for. I’m absolutely all for adding special cultural and world specific things in packs but they could AT LEAST also add other gameplay things that affect just basic gameplay. Make it worth the $40.

This was super long but I have a lot of feelings about sims 4 expansions as we’ve been through a lot of them and are usually left wanting. I am NOT looking forward to these updates breaking my mods but I will buy the pack because there are things about it I think I’ll really enjoy. Worth $40 though? Eh I don’t think so but that’s EA for you. If you actually read this thanks! 

[kipperclothiers]

For Shorter Men & Women Who Like Menswear: Our Guide to Small-Size Shoes

While you can wear a suit with sneakers in some instances, situations like a job interview, wedding, or client presentation call for a polished, more traditional appearance. For the average male – roughly 5 ft., 9 in. and around 170 lbs. – finding a dress shoe isn’t a challenge. You stop at the mall, browse online, or, if you’re cash strapped, hunt down an un-scuffed pair at your local consignment shop. In all cases, you expect to find something in your size.

But, what if you’re under 5 ft., 6 in.? Or, you have small feet that feel loose in a size 6? Or, you’re a smaller-sized female with a penchant for actual menswear styles – and those menswear-inspired ones feel too frilly? Unfortunately, you’re stuck: Too small for adult sizes, wanting to avoid anything traditionally feminine, and too large for the kids’ department, you’re in that grey zone where, frankly, nothing fits.

So, what do you do? Suit up and wear all-black Converse high-tops, hoping no one notices? Suck it up and look for a kids’ shoe that’s not-quite-so childish? Or, do you relent, and compromise with a jaunt through the women’s section? The answer is – none of these. We’re here to tell you that, yes, you can find shoes in your size, without compromising your personal style.

Unsure about your foot’s exact measurements? Start with this measuring guide before you shop around.

Our focus here is primarily dress shoes – or whatever you can wear with a suit. On the other hand, if you’re in the grey zone, your shoe collection is – to excuse the pun – fairly small. Maybe two or three pairs, if you’re lucky.

Where do you begin for everyday wear? In this case, any unisex brand is best. Think skate shoes by Vans, low- and high-tops in neutral shades from Converse, Dr. Martens’ boots, and styles from Palladium. For “comfort” shoes, Oofos goes under a size 6, while Clarks hits right at this line.

And, if you see no shame in everyday athleisure, Nike makes men’s sneakers down to a size 4, as does New Balance.

Shopping Online

On the department store end, Nordstrom is frequently cited as a place to find smaller-size men’s dress shoes. Of the brands you’ll find below shortly, Grenson and Saint Laurent are available through their online store. Yet, in terms of variety, you can’t beat Zappos. Although their selection of men’s 4 and 4.5 sizes yields mostly casual options, you’ll find an occasional gem: For instance, a pair of Y-3s or a set of Wolverine Heritage boots.

For dress shoes, though, you’ve got to look past the predictable choices. For instance, Stravers – the Amsterdam-based retailer with a world-renowned brick-and-mortar store – prides itself on going to extremes. More specifically, a customer will find more than a smattering of both big-and-tall and small sizes. For the latter, your selection runs typical – think brogues, lace-up ankle boots, and oxfords in brown, tan, and black hues – and less so, with patent leather and blue alligator skin being some of the standouts.

For more technical styles, there’s BootBay.com. Born in east Tennessee in the early ‘80s, it’s another sought-after small-size retailer, with a product selection primarily covering work, hiking, and casual boots. While it’s not directly dress-shoe oriented, we all need a sturdy pair to get through the winter. As such, here you’ll find slip-resistant, moisture-wicking, and cushioned options.

Florsheim

Yes, they’ve garnered a reputation as your parents’ (and even grandparents’) shoe store, but this Chicago-originating brand has stuck around for a few reasons. One, you’ll have no trouble getting your basics – oxfords, brogues, chukka boots, and monk strap styles, with the occasional cap or wingtip detail – but its stores continue to stock more fashion-forward fare.

Case in point, at the start of the menswear craze, they partnered with Duckie Brown in 2010 to revamp some of their classic silhouettes, and five years later, they collaborated with George Esquivel on a California-influenced collection. Then, two years ago, they introduced a vintage collection, offering modern takes on their original line.

Recommendations

Richfield Moc Toe Strap Loafer ($100): All-around smooth, except for the slightly angular toe and braided detail, these loafers embody classic simplicity. Pair them with a full suit or chinos and a blazer, and in either instance, their versatile, lightly cushioned design takes you everywhere.

Como Moc Toe Strap Loafer ($110): With a name alluding to Italian construction, this hand-stitched, kidskin loafer is all about the details, from the top strap and burnishing to rich yet not overbearing burgundy undertones.

Grenson

Menswear has been on a heritage kick, and Grenson fits right in. Although sizing ends at a men’s size 6, their traditional handmade designs make your search worth it. Plus, they’re one brand with a decent women’s selection featuring some unisex-leaning designs. Added to this, their versatility and quality construction mean that whatever you choose – Chelsea and lace-up boots to oxfords, in suede or leather – will last – and last and last. If you’re thinking about building your wardrobe basics, start right here. As a note, U.K. sizing is used for all styles. Reference the brand’s conversion chart to select your size.

Recommendations

Ella Boots (Women’s, $345): Excluding summer’s hotter days, the dress boot delivers the prime combination of style and coverage. Grenson’s Ella cuts out those subtle feminine details, delivering a sturdy wingtip brogue made out of black calfskin leather that’s a sure match for your suit yet is still edgy enough for a pair of jeans.

Dylan Oxford Brogues (Men’s, $330): This traditional hand-painted leather oxford features a tan stain on top of its natural base color for a richer, multi-layered appearance. Best for matching with lighter-colored suits, its wing-tip design uses a slightly longer last than previous versions.

Paul Smith

You’ll recognize this British-based brand from Fashion Week presentations. And, much like the clothing we spotted recently, designs go either way – all while still feeling traditional. Whether you’re sporting navy or a multicolored oversized suit, pair it with brogues, loafers, lace-up, or Chelsea boots, in standard leather or nubuck. As a note, the brand uses European sizing for all styles.

Recommendations

Munro Brogues (Women’s, $495): The hybrid dress shoe – leather upper with a sneaker-like sole unit – frequently looks cheap and awkward, but Paul Smith’s Munro hits the sweet spot with vegetable-tanned leather, wingtip details, and a flexible sole with extra padding by the ball.

Gerald Chelsea Boots (Men’s, $340): Now, this is how a Chelsea boot should be: Smooth all around, from the material to the almond toe, with a fit that easily slides on. It’s ready for your suit and also adds that sophisticated rocker touch to denim and patterned pants.

Frye

Another American-based brand, Frye hasn’t quite reached heritage status, but their sheer variety – including women’s and men’s styles – definitely impresses us. Pretty much, if you’re looking to build a basic shoe collection from the ground up, you’ll come across oxfords and lace-up boots, as well as a decent, non-statement-making pair of sneakers.

Recommendations

Western Chelsea Boots (Women’s, $358): Not every dress shoe has to be super-traditional, and this music-inspired style – part of a brand collaboration with Cage the Elephant’s Matt Shultz – blends a Chelsea height and Italian leather with cowboy boot elements, like a pitched heel and stitching details.

Grady Jodhpur Boots (Men’s, $398): The jodhpur boot rarely gets enough love from the dress shoe world, we have to admit. Frye’s take definitely leans more toward casual, with its distressed, matte-finished suede and thinner, strap-accented silhouette. It presents a more laid-back version of the Chelsea boot that flows seamlessly from dressier fare to denim.

G.H. Bass & Co.

While you likely associate G.H. Bass & Co. with plaid button-ups and fleece, it’s an American heritage brand in its own right – the maker of the original penny loafer. Although, in a modern setting, the style’s a bit preppy, it’s one of those staples that’s a natural match for your chinos in a pinch. Slip on something smart casual in a range of colors and materials.

Recommendations

Whitney Mirror Metallic Weejuns (Women’s, $120): Traditional construction – a “penny slot,” stitched moc toe, and a slip-on silhouette – meet up with modern statement elements. The result bridges dressy-casual territory with red carpet-worthy style that works with your suit and pretty much the rest of your wardrobe.

Lincoln Lizard Weejuns (Men’s, $120): As another statement shoe, the Lincoln Lizard brings that oomph with lizard stamp burnished crust leather and a chain detail across the top. It’s one of those styles that manages to be current yet classic and formal without feeling overly traditional.

Saint Laurent

While Hedi Slimane’s since left for Celine, his mod rocker-influenced looks left an impression on this seminal French brand. As such, while critics have been mixed on Slimane’s vision for Celine, they can’t deny he ushered in a new era for Saint Laurent – one of thinner, more androgynous silhouettes that are ready for the boardroom yet have enough punch for an all-nighter in New York. And, as a bonus, you’ll find men’s casual and dress options down to a size 5.

Recommendations

Miles Boots (Men’s and Women’s, $1,195): This unisex-styled boot precisely embodies the post-Slimane Saint Laurent brand, from its thin profile and carefully chosen buckle detail to its clean lines and light hand-distressing.

Laced Army Boots in Kangaroo-Look Leather (Men’s, $1,095): A slightly matte and smooth lace-up upper and a low heel give these boots a light dash of military style. Yet, if you’re going to spend top-dollar on a pair of dress boots, they should also grant you the most mileage, and that’s precisely what this style does, matching everything from intricate printed suits to skinny jeans.

Church’s

Luxury, high-fashion brands aside, this is your apex. High-quality traditional designs – with the occasional trendy piece, like a military-influenced or two-tone boot – define the “cost per wear” concept. You’ll find all the usual suspects – brogues, oxfords, derbies, monk straps, and a range of boot silhouettes – in versatile shades of tan, brown, and black, complete with details in key places. While this English-based brand originally started as a family business, expansion resulted in brick-and-mortar stores throughout Europe, plus a partnership with Prada. In the U.S., you can find them through Saks, as well as through other luxury retailers like Mr. Porter and Farfetch. 

Recommendations

Westerham Oxford (Men’s, $560): It’s quite literally the smoothest oxford you’ll find around, from the blind eyelets to the finished calf leather. Goodyear construction ensures it’ll give you more than a few years’ use, while the cap toe adds an elegant yet neutral finish.

Bessy Buckle Chelsea Boot (Women’s, $814): Masculine and feminine elements fluidly merge in what feels like a true either-or boot. A block heel and buckle strap give it a touch of flair, while the mid-height and finished calf leather elevate it above the typical fashion boot.

Sutro Footwear

Based in San Francisco, Sutro has strived to create a reasonably priced shoe that you’ll wear frequently and that also uses a smaller carbon footprint. To do this, the company works with artisans in Mexico to craft each pair, while the leather, from free-range, U.S.-based cattle, is tanned without chemicals. Instead, natural oils and creams bring out the material’s beauty and highlight its individuality.

Within this approach, craftsmanship remains paramount. Shoes – men’s and women’s styles, with some unisex silhouettes tucked away – are constructed out of full-grain premium leathers, with minimal finishing. For this reason, styles appear simple – lace-up and Chelsea boots, oxfords, and a handful of heeled styles – yet are made to hold up to everyday wear.

Recommendations

Vermont Boots (Unisex, $218): At a glance, can you tell this is a “comfort” shoe? From the leather to the stacked outsole, it deceptively looks like any other dress boot. Yet, this unisex shoe based on Sutro’s best-selling Alder has a few tricks up its sleeve: Mainly, ultra-sturdy Goodyear Welt construction and rubber placed at key pressure points for extra support.

Mendelle Lace-Up Boots (Women’s, $188): Utilitarian details characterize many of Sutro’s styles, and here, the taller height, seven-eyelet front, and smooth, rounded toe give off subtle workwear vibes. Yet, ultra-rugged and clunky, they’re not, and that burnished, straightforward upper makes for a solid, three-season dress boot.

Shoepassion

Don’t be put off by the name. We know it seems like a cheesy, fast-footwear ecommerce site, but behind it is handcrafted, meticulous production and some of the finest materials you’ll find around. Designed in Berlin and manufactured in Spain, this brand utilizes Goodyear-welted construction – known for superior strength in work boots – and breathable, French-tanned leathers. Although far from inexpensive, the price justifies itself: For men’s and menswear-styled women’s shoes, the durability and versatile silhouettes are meant to last you years.

N° 5225 Oxfords (Men’s, $385): It’s all in the color. Warm, almost fiery brandy tones – created through a vegetable tanning process – pop without seeming overpowering. A hand finish, applied to soft calf leather, gives it a gradient effect and elegant shine.

N° 275 (Women’s, $465): While these could’ve been an ordinary dress boots, the wing tips and other details reminiscent of a British derby certainly elevate it. Yet, there’s still something rugged about it: Beyond just the Goodyear-welt construction, a taller height, slightly lugged outsole, and seven pairs of eyelets, although decorative, have an old-school work boot vibe.

**

Here at Kipper, we know a suit’s not complete without the right accessories. If, as a person with smaller-size feet, you’ve come across another high-quality shoe brand, tell us about it on our social channels!

[nln4]

dive: a chargestep fic

Words: 1162

Pairing: m!ortega/nb!sidestep

Rating: T for teeth

The salt breeze smells nice.

You lean out the window, sunlight warming whatever skin you can afford to show the world. The condo is close enough to the sea that you watch the waves crash against the rocks. Distant gulls shriek as they fly over limestone-white houses and for a moment, this world is your own.

How does he do it? How does he manage to always get to you and pull you away from your comfort zone, challenge you to take another step further?

One day, he said. Just one day. The sea, you'll love it.

One day with me.

And so you go, six hours on the road, listening to songs on the radio that you've never heard before but still fill you with nostalgia, bickering with him (“You should let me drive.”/“Okay then, show me your license!”/“You don't need a license to know how to drive, Ricardo.”), enjoying your hair flying around your face with the window down.

An arm snakes around your waist to move closer.

“What are you thinking about?” he whispers, not wanting to disturb the peacefulness.

“Hm?” You idly drum your fingers against the tanned scarred skin, tracing absentmindedly along the ridges of the just barely noticeable Mods in his arms. “Nothing really.”

“You know, I've always wanted to know what it'd be like,” he says, tucking his chin against your shoulder. “To do what you do.”

“Oh? And what's that?”

“Read minds. Thoughts. Know what or how someone feels.”

“I mean, I can't get a read on yours, so, same.”

“Well, now you know how I feel,” he laughs quietly.

“Why?” You admit, you've been curious. Ortega has changed in ways you didn't account for, in the time you've been gone. Was it because of you? Or has he always had a couple of secrets locked away? “Just because.” 

But, you reason, people are entitled to their own secrets. To their own motivations, their own dreams and fears.

You just didn't think it would be him.

And suddenly, he's not the arrogant one, you are, for thinking of him as a shallow pool, a shiny surface.

To be fair, you didn't prepare on meeting him again. And you certainly didn't mean to get closer and closer. But he is the moon and you are the tides, pushed and pulled, though he looks at you as if you were the sun. (he squints at you suspiciously and someday you're doomed to burn out)

“So?” he says, nuzzling closer, pressing his lips gently to your neck. “How about a house tour? I hear the bedroom is great.”

“Is that why you brought me here?” you ask, unable to hide the smile spreading on your face, turning around in his arms to finally come face-to-face. He grins at you, the crooked moon grin that deepens a dimple in his cheek. The salt and pepper hair near his temples, the crows feet that crinkle from his mood but the smile still makes him young.

“No,” he says. His lashes flutter innocently, his eyes are anything but.

“Okay then.”

He blinks. “Are you serious?”

“Are you taking back the offer-”

“No!” You didn't think his smile could grow any wider but it does and his happiness is infectious, tingling under your skin. You dance away from the warmth of his embrace but he holds onto your hands, tangling his fingers with yours.

“As long as you remember what we talked about the other day.”

“What?” he asks, an eyebrow raised in confusion. You've always enjoyed the fact that even though you can't get a hold on his thoughts, they're still written across his face.

“You know.”

He concentrates for a moment and suddenly his face grows serious as his memory dawns on him. “No.”

“Would you please just try?”

“I'm not hurting you.”

“I'm not telling you to hurt me, just…” you trail off, seeing the frown on his face. “Just, I'm telling you that I won't break. It'll be OK.”

You can't break what's already broken, you think.

“I know that,” he says, frown fading but the crease between his eyebrows remain. “But the past couple months, you've looked like…like you were a shell. A strong wind could have knocked you over.”

“But I'm not anymore.”

“I know, baby, I know,” he says, brushing the hair from your face and planting a kiss on your forehead. “Just give me the chance to not possibly fuck things up with you though?”

“You won't.” You pull his hand closer, rest it against your cheek and there's the barest hum of energy from the metal Mods embedded in his palms. “I trust you.”

His eyes widen. “I'm sorry? Say that again, I need to record it.”

“Hey!”

He laughs and the seriousness is lifted. He traces along your chin, cradling your face carefully. “What if I do?”

“Then you'll fix it,” you say with a shrug. “Isn't that a hero thing, Mr. Superhero?”

He stares and studies, and you can see that he wants to know you, he wants you, he wants. “Okay.”

Without warning, he shoves you against the wall and it rattles the wooden frames hanging there and he surges against you with a harsh kiss, so hard you think your soul might have left your body (if you had one, anyways). His lips trail along your chin, down your jaw until he reaches your ear, taking a lobe in with a soft bite, leaving you gasping.

“I-I um…” Whose voice is that? You don't recognize the breathless whisper as your own.

“Forgot what you were going say?” His voice is a purr in your ear and you can feel against your stomach exactly what's in store for you. “I'll take that as a good sign then.”

“Rules, rules,” you gasp, your fingers trembling at the hem of his t-shirt because his teeth are grazing against the skin of your throat, with every intention to bite down.

“No peeking. And a rule for me,” he adds, gripping your jaw and forcing you to look at him. The metal in his palms digs into your skin, against the bone. It stings, just a little uncomfortable but oh, so good.

“Yeah?” There's a darkness in his lidded gaze that you don't think you've seen before, a hunger that sends chills down your spine. Something that threatens to reach out and pull you under. His hips grinds against yours, agonizingly slow and he thumbs circles against your cheeks.

“If you need to stop, at any moment, you have to tell me. Promise me.” The stubble scratches your skin and you nod, all too happy that he's finally going along with it. All too happy to have him.

He pulls away a little, still close enough that your lips meet as he speaks, forehead pressed against yours. He's waiting for you to back away but your back is against the wall and you were planning to move forward anyways. Right into the deep end.

“Well, then. Tell me what you want.”

[beybladeimagines]

hi i really love all of your imagines!! can i request a scenario where mariah confesses to her crush? (x female reader if that’s okay💖) thank you!!

Mod Note: Wow, my gay ass has never said yes so fast in my life. I hope you like it!

She has never been the type to hesitate. In matches, her moves are relentless and out of the arena, she maintains the same ferocity once used to blow her opponents away. But despite the endless onslaught of attacks she so willingly instigates, she can’t seem to duplicate that dexterity beyond the stadium - at least when it comes to you. 

You both have been running for some time now. Feet have collided with rocks, moss, grass, and gravel. You have tasted earth and water all at once and found sanctuary within the vast segments of shade that you both seem to breeze by. Aside from the sound of leaves bending and parting from your path, all you’ve been able to hear is each other’s breaths. When you initially agreed to train together, you anticipated some kind of running, but you didn’t expect the terrain to be so rough and rigorous. You briefly glance at Mariah who happens to be by your side. You don’t see an ounce of sweat dripping from her frame, nor a break in concentration. In fact, you swear she’s slowed herself down for your sake, because she’s already so accustomed to running through this course.

However, Mariah is given too much credit. Despite once being in the lead, she didn’t exactly like not being by your side. Eager eyes steal a quick look your way, only to be completely invested in your current appearance. Wow… You look so resilient. You always have been, but to see it up close was so captivating. Most people would be complaining by now, but you’ve always managed to hold yourself together. She acknowledges every aspect of your frame and finds beauty in the way your hair sticks to your skin. In truth, you’ve always been pretty, she just admires how beautiful you remain even when you’re exhausting yourself. That’s why she slowed down… She just wanted to look a little longer at you. It isn’t until you turn your head that she decides to look away. Was she caught? Judging by your expression, her secret stays safe. 

“Hey!” She calls your name and it’s the sweetest thing to ever leave her lips. “Let’s stop here for now.” Feet transition into a light jog before finally slowing down at a nearby tree. You follow, but only to bend over out of exhaustion. Mariah offers a smile, as if to silently celebrate your ability to keep up and make it this far. When you stand upright again, your hair bounces back and gently drapes your shoulders. Seems the hair-tie you borrowed wasn’t durable enough for your trek. A defeated sigh escapes you, but before you can even ask her for another tie, you feel gentle hands within your hair. Mariah is combing through your locks, evening out any stray stands that might escape her current grasp. Her hands feel so cool whenever she traces over your scalp and you bask in the relieving touches she so generously offers. “You really kicked my ass today. I should’ve known better than to think you’d go easy on me.” Your words are followed by a laugh. Despite how treacherous the journey felt, having her there actually made it easier.

“Don’t underestimate yourself. You kept up. That’s more than I can say for most people.” She loops your hair through one last bend of her bow before turning to face you. “There. Pretty.” The last word leaves her lips so effortlessly, it’s like she’s been waiting all day to say it to your face. Although she is no stranger to passing compliments, this one seems to catch her off guard. Her usual smile briefly drops as she searches your eyes for some kind of answer. Did she somehow expose herself? “Sorry, that was-” She tries to look away in order to break the tension she personally built. How embarrassing…

But you cut her off. “You’re really pretty too, Mariah.” You don’t see an issue and you use your words as a means of extending approval. Whatever Mariah willingly bestows upon you, you accept with blushing gratitude. “Should we head back?” You nod your head towards the direction you came and ready your body to turn. It’s going to be a long road back; why not prepare now? But as you move, Mariah is quick to grab your hand and out of instinct, your fingers seem to weave into the spaces of her own. 

“Or… We can stay.” There it is. Her once hidden ambition now lunges forward and calls her into action. She has looked at you long enough, she has admired your eyes too many times not to have them linger a little longer, and she has missed the way you felt the moment she let go. What is there to lose at this point? She already feels like her affections are obvious. The way you hold her hand is a testament to that. “Because I like you, yeah. So… We should stick around a little longer.” Her words have been dipped in sugar and passed along to your lips to taste. How can anyone be so sweet and speak in such a way that makes the rest of the world dissolve? You feel like you’re in a daze and your body moves back to her being, as if it was meant to be there from the beginning. She was always the type to make the first move, but you never expected yourself to be so easily drawn in by her actions.

“I…like you too.” Somehow, those words leave you effortlessly. Most people would be stuttering fools, but you are so sure of your sentiments that it almost seems like a waste of energy to not speak with certainty. “Then you won’t mind if I do this, will you?” Before you can even question Mariah’s intentions, she has already wrapped her arms around your neck. The feeling of her weight and warmth inspires goosebumps along your skin. But her lips serve as a remedy to your initial unease. She kisses away your exhaustion and your astonishment, only to replace it with silent words of sweetness. You are so worthy of feeling some form of love and she gives it to you through lips alone. You feel every ounce of affection once hidden in her heart and it makes this tough trip out into the woods so completely worth it. So, this is what like feels like? You’re excited to see what else she has in store.

[dherzogblog]

songs/19

“I listen so you don't have to”

Hey everyone, we’re back! enjoy some music and musings from the last year

Make sure to click on there bold type for music links and extras!

Lizzo- Juice Lizzo burst into 2019 with a hit song, huge album and wildly successful tour. The “pudding in the proof “. Easily the catchiest tune of the year with an irresistible Bruno Mars 80′s funk vibe, She has the kind of star power and charisma that makes her appealing to just about everyone, including your aunt, who no doubt will be grooving to this on bar mitzvah dance floors for years to come. Blame it on her juice.

Jen Awad- Hungover

Big voiced, post Amy Winehouse soul singer blames it on the juice too. Maybe she was with Lizzo the night before?

Charley Crockett- How Low Can You Go?

Multi ethnic Americana singer/songwriter delivers one of my favorite albums of the year where he effortlessly moves from country to blues to soul. He also recorded one of my favorite country covers of the year (see bottom of this blog for more info on that). His girl is breaking his heart (blame it on the juice again?) on this R&B styled song from a non album single.

Durand Jones and The Indications-  Circles

More sweet 70′s soul, quiet storm style. The swirling strings and Delfonics harmonies would sound perfect coming out of the 8 Track player in your Pinto.

Dr.John- Such A Night (1941-2019)

A true music renaissance man. Starting as a teen in the studios of New Orleans, he learned his trade at the feet of the masters, playing R&B, jazz, and blues with equal skill and feel. The good doctor, (AKA Mac Rebbenack) went on to become an unlikely rock star in the early 70′s with his psychedelic and voodoo inspired Night Tripper alter ego. His long career found him playing several roles along the way, session man, producer, and The Big Easy’s unofficial funk ambassador. I picked this live version of the song because: A. He’s backed beautifully by The Band, B. It’s one of my favorite performances from The Last Waltz, and C. The live setting let’s you hear him stretch out a bit on the keyboards. I watched him perform many times, headlining or sitting in with others at Jazz Fest. No matter what the setting, he always fit right in and found the groove. Piano man, sideman, shaman, there was only one Dr.John.

Van Morrison - Early Days

Like Dr. John, Van’s been around long enough to recall the birth of rock and roll. Throughout his career he never stopped paying tribute to his roots and those who inspired him. You can hear it in his musical references, cover tunes and name checks. At The Hollywood Bowl in October I got to see an unusually joyous performance as he wistfully traced a lifetime of musical influences across R&B, jazz and blues. His latest release is an unabashed love letter to those good old days, three chords and the truth.

Spiral Stairs- Fingerprintz

Scott Kannberg is one of the co-founders of Indie rock legends Pavement. But truth is I never took much of an interest in them. I happened to read about his solo project where he mentioned listening to a lot of  Van Morrison and Nick Lowe while recording. That seemed like a  good enough reason for me to check it out. There are familiar ‘fingerprints” on this one, as you can definitely hear him channeling Van.

Vampire Weekend- This Life

Hardly anyone is ambivalent about Vampire Weekend. Their preppy east coast look, and sleeve wearing, dad rock influences make them polarizing at best. Doesn’t matter to me, I like their catchy hooks, bone dry lyrics, caribbean rhythms, and ringing guitars.This is easily the sunniest song about cheating I ever heard.

The English Beat- Whine and Grind/Stand Down Margaret Ranking Roger (1953-2019)

in January of 1980 England was in the grips of 2 Tone mania, the pop music movement that came dancehall crashing out of the UK Midlands, and for a brief black and white checkered moment, dominated the British charts. At the center of the scene were The Specials whose founder Jerry Dammers launched the 2 Tone label and created the blueprint for it’s sound, inspired by the Jamaican music he heard as a kid. These bands (including The Selecter and Madness), combined ska, reggae and punk that launched a brief music and fashion movement. They dressed in a mod black and white style making the look nearly as important as their sound. For most of these bi-racial bands, the goal was to make you dance AND think, with lyrics focusing on social and political issues affecting young people in Thatcher’s Britain. The track here is a good example of that.

I arrived in London on a traveling seminar ready to check it all out, as a college radio DJ I was already a fan of The Clash’s punky reggae. and I had read several dispatches from the British music tabloids like NME and Melody Maker. First chance I got, I was off to a record store where I stood at a listening station to hear The Special’s debut LP.  I was instantly transformed into a card carrying 2 Tone fan boy. As a student, without much money with a long trip ahead, I couldn't afford The Specials album, but I did buy a 45 by the label’s latest signing, The Beat.

The A side was a cover of Smokey Robinson & The Miracle’s “Tears Of A Clown”. It took a minute to get used to hearing the Motown classic played in their energetic ska sound. The tune ends with Ranking Roger “toasting” over the track reggae DJ style, not something heard much outside of Jamaica back then. Side B featured Roger taking lead and riding over a bouncy stop and start rhythm titled “Ranking Full Stop”. It was an instant 2 Tone classic, and I now had a new favorite band.

The Beat (AKA The English Beat) after just one 2 Tone single, were given their own Go-Feet label and releasing a full length album later that year. Their songs seemed to have a slightly more authentic Jamaican sound than the others, dubbier, upbeat and fun. In addition they dabbled in world music and afropop long before it became chic. I saw them perform on their first US tour in Boston later that year.

As the 2 Tone moment waned back home, the group quickly focused on the American audience, touring constantly in the process. The Beat were definitely the band most committed to breaking in the states and nearly did. By the third album, they gained some traction at US radio (particularly here in LA at KROQ) and played the US Festival, but it was too late. The band was already fracturing. Lead singer Dave Wakeling and Roger left unceremoniously in 1983 to form the short lived and mildly successful General Public, while bandmates Andy Cox and David Steele formed the much more successful Fine Young Cannibals. despite some huge hits, they too were short lived.

The original band never reunited. Roger and Wakeling performed together as The Beat for awhile, later each forming his own version. Roger in the UK and Dave in the US. Dave’s version tours constantly to this day. The 2 Tone label didn't last long and the music never truly caught on here. Ultimately suffering the same fate as other short lived UK music fads like Glam Rock or The New Romatics. Their impact was strong enough though to fuel the much maligned ska third wave of the 90′s, and bring Jamaican music a bit farther into the mainstream. All that really remains are the three great studio albums and the memory of their exciting live shows.

I booked the band on a CNN talk show in 1982. I remember they seemed frustrated and were already hinting at a challenged future for the group. Less than a year later they were done for good. I recall desperately wanting them to succeed, bringing my favorite band and the 2 Tone music to the masses. It’s hard to imagine there was a ever a time in your life when a pop group could break your heart like that. 

Foe me and other recovering rude boys/rude girls, the music endures, as does the message.  And today when I hear them streaming into my ear buds, I still want to “move my likkle feet and dance to the beat”, which for the dearly departed Roger I have to think, was always the point.  #loveandunity

The Special- Vote For Me

Politics and social issues remain front and center as the 2 Tone founders return with their first album since the 80′s. Reunited for many years now, this current version of the band boasts more original members of The Fun Boy Three than the original The Specials. That did not stop them from delivering a totally respectable and relevant effort. You can hear dark echos of their classic "Ghost Town” on this dubby tune no doubt inspired by Brexit.

Eddie And The Hot Rods- Do Anything You Wanna Do Barrie Masters (1956-2019)

in 1976/77 Eddie and the Hot Rods stood at the intersection of pub rock and punk as one scene fizzled, and the other burned down everything in its path. The Hot Rods had the classic straight ahead sound of the pub bands plus an attitude that leaned forward into the energy punk would embrace. They enjoyed a brief moment of UK chart success before literally falling into the cracks of the pop music scene. This song, one of my all time favorite singles, sum them up perfectly. Drawing a straight line from Graham Parker to The Clash with a touch of a classic Springsteen working class anthem. In other words....perfect.

Beach Slang- Tommy In The 80′s

When I first saw the title of this song immediately assumed it was a Beach Slang’s tribute to The  Replacements guitarist Tommy Stinson . And even though Tommy himself plays on the track, it is not about him! In fact, it’s actually a tribute to obscure 80′s power popper Tommy Keene. I remembered the name from my MTV days, but honestly had to wiki him for clarification. Despite all these references, the whole thing sounds more inspired by “Jessie’s Girl” than either Tommy. 

The Cars- My Best Friends Girl Ric Ocasek (1941-2019)

Truthfully. I was never a big Cars fan. But in my college days before digital music, you listened to whatever the radio played. And in Boston, they played The Cars a lot. It wasn’t long before they rose from local heroes to national charts toppers. They didn't have the bluesy street cred or swagger of hometown legends Aerosmith or The J Geils Band, but they were our very own neighborhood rock stars. Drummer David Robinson lived in the building next door to Noreen on Comm Ave, and it was always kinda cool to see them strolling around Back Bay or hanging out at a club. Their sound was little cold and metallic for me, but you couldn't deny they crafted pretty great pop and new wave singles. They were omnipresent sound of my college days. The hits literally followed me to MTV and NYC in the 80′s where I often spotted Ric and Paulina strolling hand in hand in Chelsea. This classic love triangle was always my favorite with it’s Tommy James like guitar at the top, handclaps, and unforgettable hook. The band disbanded long ago, but like the classic American automobiles, these songs were built to last.

The Neighborhoods- Don’t Look Down

The Cars were the only Boston group of the era to truly make it big, but that late 70′s scene boasted several other talented bands who scored label deals including: The Nervous Eaters, The Rings, The Paley Brothers, Robin Lane and the Chartbusters, The Fools, The Real Kids, The Stompers, and Mission Of Burma. Later on, The Lyres, The Neats The Del Fuegos, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and Murphy’s Law  all managed to find the big time. It was a great time for local music back then. A city filled with students, plenty of clubs to pack on weekends, and college and commercial radio stations willing to play local bands. There were many good acts around town then, and my favorite, without a doubt, were The Neighborhoods. A young, brash power trio led by charismatic lead singer David Minehan. They played a ferocious brand of power pop/punk that would leave their audience breathless. I was certain they were destined for stardom. In the spring of 1979 they released their debut single “Prettiest Girl” on a local label and massive airplay on both college and commercial radio followed. They instantly became the hottest band in town, poised to become the next band from Boston to make it big. But it never happened. Bad luck, poor management and infighting derailed all the momentum. Before you knew it, the gritty street quality that was The ‘Hoods trademark was pushed aside by the synthesized sound of MTV. Over the course of the 80′s and into the 90′s they managed to release some pretty good albums on a variety of indie labels, but it never came together for them. The band reunited and gigs occasionally but hadn’t recorded for many years until right now. Forty years later, the neighborhood may not look the same, but their sound and spirit somehow survive. I suppose there’s something tragic and romantic about a great band lost to time, remembered only by the few who saw them way back when. They really were great, but I guess you had to be there.

Jesse Mailn - Meet Me At The End Of The World Again

New York’s favorite son, soul survivor, and street poet Jesse Malin is back. He’s been around long enough to understand that “When it all blows up, when it all goes down, when it makes you sick, but you’re still around” is victory in itself.  It’s the only life he knows, so what can a poor boy do? 

Brittany Howard- Stay High

This is from Alabama Shakes lead singer's excellent solo debut, unselfconsciously celebrating private moments spent with a lover on this  rootsy and gentle ballad. Her soulful falsetto conveys the kind of lustful bliss you might expect from Al Green or Prince. 

Mississippi All Stars- Mean Old World

Bear with me. This one is tangled up in the roots of several southern rock legacies and is going to take a minute to unpack. The All Stars are led by Luther and Cody Dickinson, sons of legendary Memphis musician and wild man Jim Dickinson. They decided to cover T Bone Walker’s Mean Old World,  a blues number once recorded by Eric Clapton and Duane Allman as part of the historic Derek And The Dominos sessions. The track, featuring their dad Jim, did not make the original release but was later unearthed on an expanded reissue. Still with me?  So, as a bit of a tribute, the guys recorded their own version of the tune and invited Duane Betts, son of Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts to record an Eat a Peach inspired guitar run at the end.

And oh yeah, Jason Isbell is on it as well.

Got all that? 

Samantha Fish- Kill Or Be Kind

Have seen Samantha live several times over the past few years. She’s a very good blues/rock guitarist, vocalist and an exciting live performer. On the sultry “Kill or be Kind” she gives her lover an ultimatum. Fun fact: One of my son’s best friends from high school (Kate Pearlman) wrote two tracks on the album!

Jade Jackson- Bottle It Up

Second album from this promising up and coming alt country artist. She’s on the super cool Anti label which providing immediate credibility and her albums are produced by Social D frontman Mike Ness. And when she’s not on the road she waitress’s at her parent’s restaurant in central California. I’m not sure you can get any more country than that.

The Highwomen- Redesigninig Women

Inspired by The Highwaymen of Willie, Waylon, Johnny and Kris, this all female country “supergroup” quartet is out to break the stereotypes in country music with some really fine songs. While the male Highwaymen banded together to rescue careers in decline, these women (Brandi Carlisle, Amanda Shires, Marren Morris, and Natalie Hemby), are all on the rise. This song is lot of fun.

John Prine- Unwed Fathers

John Prine is back with a remake of his heartbreaking tale of teenage pregnancy. He’s joined this time Margo Price. I got to see Prine live this fall at the beautiful Anson Ford Amphitheater here in LA. His simple, plain spoken lyrics and songs are timeless. I attended the show with my pal David Kissinger who observed that despite health issues, “Prine remains an national songwriting treasure and his performance was as life affirming as you’ll ever see.” Can’t say it any better than that.

Shovels And Rope- Mississippi “Nuthin

Ever wonder whatever happened to that perfect couple from high school? You know, the high school quarterback and the prom queen? This one ain’t “Glory Days”. Our QB peaked in high school and never makes it back to the end zone again, plus he's tortured by the success his old flame enjoys. His anguish and desperation are palpable in this barn burner of a song whose vocals draw inspiration from June & Johnny and John & Exene.

The Delines- Eddie and Polly

Eddie and Polly are young and in love, and doomed. Vocalist Amy Boone’s world weary vocals always sound like it’s 3AM. This one won’t do much for your holiday spirit, but it’s haunting melody might stay with you throughout it.

Yola - Love all Night (Work All Day)

Love the one your with is (at least after work) is the basic idea on this track from this UK performer’s debut long player. Produced by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, the collection is full of excellent retro soul-folk. There was a fair amount of buzz in front of the release and she more than lives up to it including a nomination for a Best New Artist Grammy. 

Mavis Staples + Norah Jones- I’ll Be Gone

First recorded effort form this duo. A bittersweet ballad that softly and soulfully looks ahead to a final salvation. But Mavis ain’t done yet. She’s still going strong, recording and touring constantly. She knows she may be running out of time, but there’s still work to do. And whenever she’s finally ready, you can be sure she’ll take us there.

Hope you and yours are well.  The Herzog’s wish you the best and look forward to seeing you in the new year.  For those of you who made it this far, thank you. I’ve got a bonus playlist for you. Artists you like playing songs you love:  covers/19 Enjoy.

peace,

Doug

Los Angeles, December 2019