#office mem

[sailorsenshishitposter]

has this been done yet?

Manspider meet Mistral

[ghosted-jazz]

Congratulations to the Kites and their new members who have totally normal faces!

[mem-fr]

sneaks a neopet onto my flight rising blog . . ...

[vespertin-y]

Hope your back heals soon!! love you

yeah it turns out when you sit like a shrimp for a decade your spine revolts against you 😭😭😭 but im making progress!!

[vinayakinteriorr]

6 ways to make your space more attractive and productive

[mandy-asimp]

Sex in the Flowers

pairing: Larissa Weems x sex worker!reader

summary: y/n hasn't been int he game long, but when she met Larissa Weems, her life changed. And after a few months of meeting, she quits her job. ON the last meeting she has, she tries to tell her but Larissa just wont listen.

warnings: language, smut, rough(ish??), mommy kink, breeding kink, shifter cock, thigh riding, fingering, oral, degrading, praise, love confession

a/n: if you see a misspelling, no you dont.

It came as a shock that Larissa Weems had time for this. Let alone planned it all for you. And all you had to do was show up to her office door at 3 sharp.

And so in your shortest sun dress and white vans, you knocked on the door as the time rolled over. Beaming up to the woman who you adored.

But on her half, she assumed that you flashed everyone that smile. It was apart of your job. You were paid to go on dates with rich and wealthy. Mostly their sons in a way to try and match make you. The day you mentioned going for a female crowd as well, your check became way more.

Larissa had accidentally stumbled across you and figured it wouldn't hurt. Yet, with every date, she became more in need of you. Wanted you all to herself and to never think of others trying to take you.

"You look absolutely adorable, darling." Larissa complimented. Please with the blush that covered your cheeks. "Are you ready? I picked out a secret place for us."

"Lead the way, love." You gestured. You knew the nickname caught her off guard. As you never gave nicknames to anyone. It was in your rules, don't give nicknames or you'll get attached. So what was this all about?

She hummed and held your hand towards the car. Where in a summer breeze your hair flowed freely. The music playing in the background as you acted without a care in the world.

This was a side Larissa had never seen. She was loving it ever so much. But it was driving her mad that she didn't know what was causing this free spirit energy.

In a matter of time, you had found yourselves in an isolated field. The two of you laughing over silly things.

At a point you had gotten up to dance around in the field. All while Larissa unpacked the sandwiches she had made and the glasses for the wine. Her blue eyes never once leaving your figure. You could feel her eyes one you. It made you happier than you've ever been.

Mostly excited to tell her you quit your job and love her. The only thing is: you were putting a lot of faith in how you read her actions. For all could go wrong and she doesn't see you in any romantic way and just loves the idea of you. And knowing she could've easily bought it was her finale tie. But you were praying it wasn't like that.

"Darling, come eat!" She called over to you. Smiling ever so softly as you walked over without breaking eye contact. Once you sat, you did something new and sat on her lap instead. Letting you arms wrap around her neck and hugging her. "What has got you in such a mood?"

"Mmm, I just missed you ever so much! What'd you make?" You got comfortable in her lap and reached for a sandwich.

"You're favorites, I figured you've been working so hard and only probably taken out to fancy, so I figured that something casual would be nicer for you." Larissa summed up and you could only feel your heart beat faster.

"Yes about work!" You saw the moment, only to be shushed by the woman who held you carefully.

"Let's just enjoy the time we have together," she whispered close to your ear.

The two of you chatted while nibbling on sandwiches and sipping on wine. You kept shifting however. There was something that was making you uncomfortable, you assumed it was just a foot. Which lead to you now laying on the blanket on your stomach. Reading a book out loud for the both of you. Not noticing how your dress hiked up your legs.

You're too occupied with the book that you don't see how Larissa looks at your body. How she traces every dent and bump on your legs. Every color she ingrains into her memory. The colors of what was going to be hers. And finally she couldn't help it. Her hands needed to touch you.

Her fingers ghosted over your legs. It wasn't till her hand had your thigh in her grasp. "Larissa." You warned. Playing into the job she thinks you still have. You sat up, which made her hand move away.

"I'm sorry." She looked away in shame. Only to be brought back to face you by your hands. "I know it's against the rules but I couldn't help."

"You're fine, we can act like it was a subtle mishap. Nobody will know." You gave her reassurance. Now laying on your back with your knees bent. Showing even more as you kept reading.

Is it possible you're teasing her? No! Impossible! You are far to innocent and sweet to tease her. Plus, why would you tease if she can't even touch you?

But maybe you were teasing, especially now that you've managed to move your dress to expose your frilly laced trimmed panties. The cute bow being what drew her attention.

"Do you always wear cute panties?" She let her hand trace delicately, almost not at all. Her eyes jumping all over your body.

"Larissa Weems, you're being awfully handsy."

"And you're being an awful tease." She puffed out. "I mean truly, your rules make no sense! I get to take you on dates, but never am I allowed to pay for you, buy you anything, touch you, nor spend more than a night with you. I truly don't get what you get out of this!"

You were stunned by her. Were you meant to get anything out of this? But then you busted out laughing.

And after a moment of laughter, you finally could talk. "Well it seems like someone doesn't agree with the rules. You signed the contract as well. Now, keep your hands off while I keep reading."

She gave you a heavier huff and pulled her hands into her lap. Listening carefully to your words. Noting how they seemed way more important now that it was you. Her eyes searched at what she couldn't touch. Trailing over ever detail of your skin. Wishing that just for a day she could touch and hold you.

"You're not paying attention to me anymore. So, bring your eyes up and not lingering." You broke into her thoughts. Closing the book and sitting up. The dress falling back over your panties. "Seriously, what has gotten into you today?"

Larissa was clearly fed with your games. "Jesus, Y/n! I just want to fuck you senseless!" She shouted.

And once again you were stunned by the silver haired woman. "Was that all it took? A tiny bit of teasing?" You couldn't help the growing smile. "Did you know, for the very brief time I've done this, I thought I would be married off before I broke any rule. To even think that it only took me to find you."

"What?" Larissa was confused now. Becoming dumbfounded when you climbed onto her lap, straddling her and keeping her trapped. “Y/n…”

“If you had just let me tell you my exciting news about work we could’ve skipped to this part so quickly,” your voice was low, kept just between the two of you. “I’ve always wanted to be fucked in a pretty flower field.”

Larissa didn't think twice, her lips were on yours in seconds flat. Moaning at the taste of the wine on your lips. You had barely drunken any but the divine taste lingered. She was sloppy and hurried.

“Easy tiger…” You hummed out. Using slight force to push her off. “You have to let me tell you about work.”

She frowned at you, you kept mentioning it. Was it some new rule update? What was so important that's keeping her from devouring you.

“What is it Y/n?” She whispered. She didn't want to scare you off with a higher volume.

“I quit.” You smiled. Yet she wasn’t. “I thought you would’ve been happy for me?”

Larissa cane back to her senses. Pushing you off her lap. “I am, but that means I won’t see you again.”

“Nonsense, my love. I quit cause I fell in love.” You beamed now. Your smile being blinding. “Truly, I didn’t mean to, but you know what they say. You can’t control it. The only thing is if it’s returned.”

A long tense silence washed over. “How long?” She finally broke it.

“Since last week. I met with everyone and told them it was over.” You felt less confidence in everything. And the silence didn't do anything to help settle the nerves. Nor did the silence, which actually made you regret saying anything. "I'm sorry, I should just go now." You were about to leave.

"Y/n?" Her voice shook. You couldn't look her in the eyes so you looked to her legs. How perfectly they were folded to the side. "Y/n, look at me."

You couldn't, you felt so stupid now. Like a little child getting a simple math problem wrong. "No, truly, just forget I said anything." You were walking away, carefully stepping around flowers. But when you missed the overgrown flower stem and tripped, you swore this was the worst day ever.

You felt tears fill your eyes, and could hardly move. You felt an overwhelming mix of emotions. Embarrassment taking mostly, but sad because your dress was now dirty.

It wasn't until arms scooped you up that you let out a small sob. Curling into yourself once you were in her lap. Her hands stroking your hair and thigh to calm you.

"I need you to look at me darling," she whispered. When you didn't she used her own hand to get you to look at her. Meeting your teary eyes. "There you are, none of these tears. You let yourself get to the worse case."

You gave a sniffle, "But you didn't sound happy or thrilled. You didn't even say anything back." You frowned. "Is it because I'm too young? Or do you not find me attractive? Was it easier because you could just buy me?"

"Oh baby no! That's never been the reason. I think you are the sweetest, most charming little thing ever. You're young, you shouldn't want an old hag such as me. You have so many people who would kill to even have a chance with you." She was rambling, but cut short with your lips on hers. Soft and passionate.

You held onto her like she was going to disappear. She was returning the kiss with the same amount of passion. You were ready to die in her arms.

Larissa pulled back and laughed lightly at how you chased after her. You slowly peeled your eyes open again. "I love you." You mumbled in the space. "I love every single part of you. I love you, Larissa Weems."

"Angel, don't say things you don't mean." She stared past you into the field. Suddenly you felt anger. How could she disregard you like this?

You huffed and sat on the other side of the blanket. "Don't belittle me." You felt heat bubble in your stomach. "I confess my love, quit my job, all because I'm so damn in love with you and all you can do is reject me. I put myself out there just for you, and if you don't want me I'm sure as hell someone else would!" You yelled, frustration expressing itself through heated tears.

Something about that sentence got to Larissa. She couldn't believe you would put yourself that low because of her. Yet, her next words only could spur you on. "What, whore yourself around?"

"I'd rather be a whore than mommy's unwanted!" You screamed without realizing. You weren't even making full sense now. "Maybe someone else would please me at least! I'll find someone else to fuck me dumb in a flower field!" You were about to leave once again.

"I suggest you stay put before you do something you regret." Her voice was dangerously low, but you couldn't ignore what it did to you. You wanted more of it.

"Or what?!" You held your ground. That waws until you were on the ground. Her hands on your chest pushing you down with a great strength.

"Mommy's gonna fuck you like the slut you want to be." She purred in your ear. Your breathing stopped. Was this what dying felt like? "Wouldn't you like that pretty girl? To be fucked dumb and hard by me in this field?"

You had this look already in your eyes. It didn't take much to put you into a sub headspace. It never had, a few compliments from a pretty lady and you were puddy in their hands.

"Look at you, already complying with me. Such a good, good girl. Do you truly want this?" Larissa let her hands up a bit. Giving you enough space to back out now.

You were long gone by now. "Please, mommy! I wanna be your good girl, please!" You were at your breaking point. You needed some relief and you needed it now.

Larissa knew this when your hips bucked up to find hers. "So needy baby, but what happened to wanting to whore yourself out? Being a dirty slut?"

"M' so sorry! Never again! Promise!" You were only falling deeper and deeper into the mind set. Eventually you'd become nothing but incoherent words.

Her hands roamed your body, sliding down your legs and back up under your dress. Her thumbs running just under your boobs. Listening to you whine for more. "What do you want angel?"

"All..." you hummed. Larissa immediately knew what you meant. And the devilish smile that dawned on her was intense.

The dress you had on was suddenly gone and the early summer breeze ran over you. Making you shiver with anticipation. Her hands cupping your boobs making you less cold. She played with them like dough, pulling airy moans from you, but it wasn't enough.

Her lips began attacking your neck while her thigh found its way between yours. Making you cry out as your hips began moving on their own. She could feel your slick running on her leg.

"Is that all for me princess? You're so wet for mommy. Have you been anticipating this moment?" Her warm breath was gliding on your neck. You could feel her hand move to find your heat. Meaning you lost the contact with her thigh and you whined. You whined like a puppy being told no.

"You're ok, Imma take such good care of you." Her hand found way to where you needed her the most. Drawing tight circles on your clit. Larissa's blue eyes watched with how you bit your lip to silence yourself. "Uh-uh baby, let mommy hear how good she's making you feel."

And you did, you let loose. Letting her know that she had you entirely. "Mmph, more." You matched her movements. Missing the touch of her as soon as it left. "NO! Please!"

"It's ok, I'm right here. We're gonna get rid of these ok? She fiddled with you panties. Pulling them down your thighs, light kisses being left in the trial. Then the found your inner thigh. Where she nipped and sucked bruises all over. "You're all mine baby. Nobody else gets to have you like this."

"Only yours, mommy." You let your hand tangle into her perfect pin up. "Mommy, your hair." You frowned.

"Does someone want to run their fingers through it?" You could only nod at her words, too lost with how her silver curls fell freely.

That was the moment she knew. Larissa knew you meant your words. Each and every one.

Her head dipped back between your legs, kissing your clit several times while you dug into her hair. Doing everything you could to pull her into you.

Larissa caved finally, giving into your wants. And you thought it was heaven, but one skilled tongue went a long way for you. She had you squirming for more. It was never enough some how. And just as you thought she was going to grant you a release, she pulled away.

"W-what?!" You looked down to her. Instantly forgetting of it as she began to loose her clothing. Letting you focus on between her legs. You were confused suddenly. "Mommy?"

She just smiled at you. "A shapeshifter honey, it's easy to manipulate to my needs. And I need to fill you with my babies, ok?"

You could only respond by pulling her down to you and kissing her. "Yours?"

Larissa softly nodded. "You'll look so cute with that belly, so round and full. Doesn't that sound nice baby?"

Then suddenly, you wanted to make her feel good. She was doing all the work, it wasn't fair. She could sense your gears turning. But never got to ask as you pushed her back and settled between her legs.

"Baby? What are- oh!" She moaned as you licked her tip. Swirling all over it before sinking onto it. Her eyes couldn't tear away from you. How you looked her in the eyes the entire time.

Her mind could focus only on you. How your tongue knew where to lick. How your eyes knew how to look. You were consuming her and she didn't know how. All she wanted was to have you with her every single second of the day.

"Oh baby, just like that. You're doing so well sweet girl. Mommy's perfect princess." Her praise sent a throbbing to your core each time. "I'm so close, god baby you're so good for me!" Her hips began to meet you. Stuttering the second you took her all in. You felt the warm liquid shoot down your throat.

Swallowing it all, you pulled off of her. Only to move fast and crawl on top of her. Lining yourself up. You slammed her all in. Both of you moaning loudly and breathing quickly.

It was all you needed to get that release you had been denied earlier. Larissa quivered at how you tightened around her. Almost forgetting that she was the one who was supposed to be in control.

But once she could find your eyes, you knew you fucked up. "You just couldn't wait could you? Such a whore for your own pleasures. I thought you were my good girl? But was all this so you could use me for pleasure?"

You shook your head quickly, "No! Mommy, please. M' sorry!" You were quick to apologize. "I...you just...I needed you." You shyed away.

"Well, now you're gonna get me. And I hope you accept it all." It was too quick, the movement. You were back on your back and she was on top.

You both were still. Staring down at your stomach. The bulge being so evident. But her stillness only made you suffer. "Please..." you begged. Needing her to move even just slightly.

"You are in no room for begging baby, but I'm gonna fuck you so good."

And she did. She truly meant it all. How she would fuck her babies into you. It was a repeating cycle for what felt like eternity. By the end you were wrapped up in her arms all dressed again as she carried you back to the car. Whispering sweet nothings into your ears.

Once back to her office, you couldn't even think of leaving her. And even when she tried to say goodbye, she missed how you practically clung to her. She wasn't ready for you to leave either yet.

"Rissa?" You called for her attention. Instantly getting it. " I meant it. I love you."

"I know you did pretty girl. And you showed it so well, that I love you too. Now what do you say about a nap?" She kissed the top of your head.

"Really? You'll let me stay?" You lit up, excited at the thought.

She bobbed her head, "For as long as you want. I'm yours forever, Y/n."

The two of you ended the day with the longest nap you've ever had. It was the perfect way to end the date.

[arafilez]

੭୧ ⼂ PIECES OF YOUR HEART ﹗

ー☆ㅤㅤ [ bts ot7 x reader ] ㅤ੭𓂃 ㅤangst, hurt, comfort 𓏧 reaction when you realise your crush has a partner ㅤ warnings crying smoking drinking trashing ㅤ﹢ㅤ0.2k / mem wc ㅤ𓏧 ㅤ req

੭ㅤ𝅄ㅤ ꒰ KIM SEOKJIN ꒱

The clock strikes nine as you drown yourself in the work at the office. There is nothing more to be done and you are just loitering around but you don’t feel like going home. Not just yet. Images fresh from the small family gathering of your co-worker is still engraved in your mind.

Your co-worker. Your crush.

Since you were new, you should have known he was just being nice when he assisted you in your work for the past few months. Should have never fallen, like a teenager with a stupid, insecure heart. But seeing your co-worker’s partner just made it all the more clear. You are so engrossed in your thoughts you don’t hear the door opening.

“Y/n? What are you still doing here?” you jump at the voice and look across to a confused Seokjin standing there. Seokjin is your friend, joining the company almost at the same time as you, and you both were supervised by your crush.

A hand around your shoulder surprises you and before you can say anything, Jin’s musky deodorant hits your nose and you are in his embrace. The tears flow free and hiccups interlude but he lets you cry, hold tightening at the sound of your choked sobs. “It will be okay,” he whispers, a loose promise, but it comforts you nonetheless.

You have me, he wants to say but keeps quiet as your tears dampen his shirt and wrench his heart. You need time and he is willing to wait for you, always.

੭ㅤ𝅄ㅤ ꒰ MIN YOONGI ꒱

“Enough,” Yoongi scolds you as he snatches away the glass of wine, making you whine and reach for his hands. Your head hurts, limbs hurts, heart hurts and everything just hurts too much to care. Whoever said drinking can’t solve issues must have been out of their minds because it can. At least for a while.

He watches you stumble towards him from the couch of his studio and he quickly moves catching you right in time before your legs give up. Sympathy crosses his face as he watches your tear-stained cheeks and red eyes which give an intense proof of how long you were crying.

Frankly, he was quite surprised when your drunk self could make it to his studio without any obstacles. “How long have you been drinking?” he murmurs, to himself mostly, but you let out a quiet groan at his words. Your mind has registered itself into a haze, a repeat telecast of your crush with the partner looping infinite times.

Why were you so stupid to fall for your co-worker? Why couldn’t you just believe he wasn’t leading you on and you were just tripping on his sweet words and innocent escapes?

Yoongi pulls you up, breath hitching as your arms cradle his neck, your faint perfume hitting his senses making him realise how deeply he has engraved you in his thoughts. He brushes them off and strokes one finger down your cheeks tenderly.

“You will have a pounding headache tomorrow,” he tells you, barely being able to hear his own words over the pounding of his heart. He can treat you better, so much better and love you like it’s worth it. But maybe he has to wait for that a while.

੭ㅤ𝅄ㅤ ꒰ JUNG HOSEOK ꒱

The cup makes a shattering sound as you throw it to the floor, resonating in the empty house and your emptier soul. It would be termed as dramatic given how you were behaving right now but you were basically led on by your crush, bought gifts, been flirted with just to throw your feelings down a cliff.

You should have known really there was a spouse down the line, the wandering eyes should have been your first sign. The empty promises, and false resolutions were just to kill you slowly. It never became serious, and just when you thought it would, the real colours emerged. The partner came onto the scene.

“Keep the plate down,” your roommate’s voice reaches your ears and you look up to see him stand at the door, a solemn look and a steel curtain on his eyes as he downs your state. You keep it down, hands trembling and sobs racking through your body as soon as it reaches the table.

In quick strides, Hoseok closes the gap between you two saying, “We are here, people who love you, who want you.” “They are not,” you choke on half of your sentence as you cry and he slightly traces his fingers down your clothed back trying to calm you. “They are,” he whispers and his hold tightens, “I am.”

“I should have taken your advice,” you sniffle making him shush you as he holds you against the kitchen counter, heart beating too loudly for him to like, but it’s you. And he would like anything for you!

੭ㅤ𝅄ㅤ ꒰ KIM NAMJOON ꒱

“And then I got to know there is a partner,” you explain to Namjoon who hums lightly. You look at him with tired eyes feeling the emptiness grow in your body. You are not sad, you don’t want to cry. You are just empty.

Namjoon hands you a glass of water which you gladly accept and sip on lightly as he says, “Well it is just one instance, and there are plenty of other fishes in the sea. And besides, don’t get disheartened, someone out there is the one you are waiting for.” You nod lightly knowing your friend is actually great at giving advice when it comes to anything.

“How did I not see a single sign, like they were literally so big and neon coloured if visualised,” you chuckle dryly and Namjoon walks towards you holding you lightly against his standing form. “Sometimes you miss stuff when you are in love,” he says and you snort. Love! Right, that is exactly what there was.

“I feel so stupid,” you whisper, face pressed against his t-shirt as he traces the back of your neck to soothe you and says, “You shouldn’t. You can’t control your feelings can you?” You shake your head lightly to a “no” and keep quiet loving his embrace and words. He lets the comfortable silence stay, maybe loving it a bit too much with you in his arms. But not now, you need time and he is willing to give it all.

੭ㅤ𝅄ㅤ ꒰ PARK JIMIN ꒱

A whiff of smoke releases from your nose as you lean against the balcony watching the city lights twinkle. A blare of a car horn reaches your ears amidst the chaos in your mind and at the same time the doorbell rings. You balance the cigarette on your lips and open the door to see your neighbour standing.

“Jimin, come on in,” you reply and he shrugs, hands in pockets and hair slicked back as you two walk towards the balcony again. You know why he is here, at least you assume it’s for the incident.

“Heard about the morning news,” he starts and you chuckle, “Yeah, hilarious. I ask my neighbour out and turns out the partner can come from behind.” He laughs loudly making you roll your eyes as he keeps laughing until you glare which finally stops him.

“Well, at least your other neighbour is totally hot and absolutely available,” he says, a hint of sincerity and hope glimmering in his eyes which goes away in one blink and is replaced by a joking stance. You snort saying, “Have some shame, Park Jimin, at least wait a day.” He shrugs pulling the cigarette from your lips and putting it down and asks, “Are you really okay though?”

“Here I thought we would indirectly kiss when you put that on your lips,” you joke, a pregnant pause follows and you continue, “I will be, don’t worry.” He nods and adds softly, “I am there for you, always. And I can listen well.”

“I know,” you smile a little, maybe out of reassurance or maybe out of the sincerity in his eyes and for the first time that day you don’t feel so alone.

੭ㅤ𝅄ㅤ ꒰ KIM TAEHYUNG ꒱

Taehyung is blatantly surprised when he opens the door to your tear-stained face and swollen cheeks. You honestly don’t care as you push past him, inviting yourself in your best friend’s couch and lying down. He closes the door softly before walking over and looking at your state again.

“Do I want to know?” he jokes and you kick a throw pillow which doesn’t even reach his chest as he catches it easily and sits down. “Has a partner!” you say and he furrows his eyebrows in confusion before realisation strikes him and he says a quiet, “Oh.”

“Yeah oh! Be in love and get your heart broken is my ritual at this point,” you whine and he sits down beside you shrugging and says “Well, technically you should have understood when-“

“I don’t wanna hear your technicalities, Kim,” you snap and he raises his hand in defeat before sighing and saying, “Come here.” You happily invite yourself into his embrace and cry quietly. The tears dampen his pants but he pays no attention to that as you mumble incoherently about your crush and his heart wrenches with every single sob escaping from you.

As he holds you in his arms he wishes at least one day you will be able to see him like he sees you, and you will know how your ritual may have a solution right away.

੭ㅤ𝅄ㅤ ꒰ JEON JUNGKOOK ꒱

“Fuck your crush,” Jungkook screams and you reply with an equally loud, “Yeah,” before taking the shots from your respective glasses. The bartender pours another one into your glasses which you drunkenly clink and drink, giggling like kids and drink again.

“I told you, you never listen, there was something wrong, I told you,” he repeatedly slurs and you groan putting your head on his shoulders and say, “Well, a fiancée was never in my Bingo Card.” Maybe it’s the drink that finally gets your head but you swear you heard Jungkook whisper, “Thank goodness for the fiancée,” under his breath.

“What?” you register, pushing yourself off his shoulders and looking at him incredulously and he shrugs making you think maybe you did hear wrong. “Your crush is a stupid piece of shit, there are many more people who can treat you better,” he says and you smile lightly, loving the low light in the bar not reflecting the red hue on his face.

“Like me,” he mumbles but is thankful when you don’t catch it but instead go for another shot, his eyes longing for one chance. Any chance. With you.

ー☆ㅤㅤ [ ara's notes ] ㅤ੭𓂃 ㅤit might not be full comfort but i hope you like it, i have missed writing bts omg. ㅤ𓏧ㅤ libraryㅤ bts shelfㅤ navi

੭ 𝅄ㅤ ꒰ TAGLIST ꒱ ㅤ⏤ㅤ @weird-bookworm ㅤ𓏧ㅤ fill this or comment or ask to be added

ㅤㅤ(ㅤㅤ© arafilez on tumblrㅤㅤ)

[roger-d0dger]

haiii a source mems question, what was rescue like for you?

I’m not a writer obviously, but it’s way too much to draw so I tried my best:

The first thing I remember about rescue is everyone crying. I was sad too, but I knew it was for a different reason. I didn’t want to leave. I don’t think I shed a single tear that day.

The naval officers stared at us, lips curled up slightly in disgust as they led us in a line to the showers. Jack was in front of me in line. I watched him walk out of the shower afterwards; his face was red and raw from scrubbing the paint off.

That first night, I remember sitting on the cot that I was splitting with Jack. It was late, and almost everyone was already asleep, except for him and I. He turned to me.

“How are you always so calm? Don’t you worry what will happen to us when we get back? Don’t you worry what everyone will think of us?” He asked, his eyes were pleading.

I turned back to him. I never thought I was calm. I was just quiet. All of my emotions lay beneath the surface. I knew I didn’t think the same way everyone else did.

“It’ll be fine. We’re kids. They’ll just think we were scared.” I assured him. I could tell he didn’t believe me.

Jack was the only one from the island who didn’t actively avoid me on that boat. I didn’t care, but the naval officers seemed to. A large man with brown hair approached me one day as I sat alone.

“You know I was shy too as a kid. They’ll like you more as they get to know you. They’re all just traumatized by what you all went through.” He tried to comfort me, but I knew the truth.

They got to know me on that island. That’s why they didn’t like me.

The next thing I remember was docking back in England. Apparently in the time we were gone, the threat that caused our evacuation had subsided, and we were safe to return to the mainland. There were a crowd of parents standing at the harbor.

Jack’s father stood a head above everyone, his face drawn into a pinched scowl. His mother beside him looked sick with worry. I turned to Jack. He was nervous.

Jack and I were the last ones off the boat. I looked around at the parents crying, hugging their children as I walked with Jack. His mother ran up and hugged him. I don’t remember what his father said.

“I’ll see you at school.” Was the last thing he said to me that day.

My father didn’t even bother showing up. He had been contacted when we were found, but as usual, I don’t think he cared. Instead, I was approached by one of the teachers at our boarding school.

“Your father asked us just to bring you back to your dorms. The other students should join you in a few weeks.” She placed a sympathetic hand on my shoulder. I wasn’t surprised. She led me gently to a car waiting to take me back.

The last thing I remember about that day is sitting in the backseat of that car, the smell of leather and gasoline reminding me that I was back in civilization, back in a society where I didn’t belong. It was like being handed a life sentence after getting a taste of freedom.

[havendance]

hello mem!! i just finished reading the entirety of no man’s land, and im trying to figure out where to go from there. online searching hasn’t really been helpful 😭 this is the list i found, im just not sure about the order:

- batman by ed brubaker vol 1

- new gotham vol 1

- officer down

- new gotham vol 2

- bruce wayne murderer/fugitive

- gotham central

- catwoman???? not sure which comics tho

where does vol 2 of batman by ed brubaker fit into this?? is this even the right order?? i’d truly appreciate your help 🥺

I'll do my best to straighten you out!

After No Man's Land, all of the Bat titles go their own way (before joining up back together for Officer Down and Bruce Wayne: Murder/Fugitive).

New Gotham Volume 1 collects Greg Rucka's run on Detective Comics between the end of No Man's Land and Officer Down.

(Following the end of NML, Batman was written by Larry Hama for a little bit, and all of those stories are just kind of fine and also not collected anywhere that I know of so don't worry about that. This bullet point is mainly to explain why Batman by Ed Brubaker does not cover the same span of time as New Gotham.)

The first four issues collected Batman by Ed Brubaker vol 1 take place BEFORE Officer Down. The rest take place afterward.

This was not on your list, but I do also recommend reading Gotham Knights: Transference which collects the first 12 issues of Gotham Knights. This also takes place between the end of No Man's Land and Officer Down. Gotham Knights is comic that does a good job of showcasing the Bats as an ensemble so if you like Batman working with his allies, this is the book for you. Also, Transference is just really good, and Gotham Knights as a whole contributes to everything leading up to Bruce Wayne: Murderer/Fugitive.

Catwoman does not have any collected editions for this period.

Officer Down goes here.

After Officer Down goes New Gotham Volume 2. This collects all of Detective Comics between Officer Down and Bruce Wayne: Murderer.

Batman by Ed Brubaker vol 1 also covers most of this ground. This is where things start getting a little (more) complicated though. The first issue collected in Batman by Ed Brubaker vol 2 takes place BEFORE Bruce Wayne: Murderer. It then proceeds to collect the tie-in issues of Bruce Wayne: Murderer/Fugitive that Brubaker wrote. I would honestly just skip this volume. The first issue is a christmas issue with like an evil (fake) Santa Claus or something and it's not that important. The other issues will be easier to read in other collected editions.

I also recommend you read Gotham Knights: Contested which collects the issues of Gotham Knights between Officer Down and Bruce Wayne: Murderer/Fugitive. The final issue of the does take place AFTER Bruce Wayne: Murder/Fugitive but the rest of it takes place before.

This is where you read Bruce Wayne: Murderer and Bruce Wayne Fugitive. I think there's a new omnibus collecting it all coming out soon, but I'm not sure how useful that is to you.

Gotham Central starts a few months or so after the conclusion of Bruce Wayne: Fugitive, but there's not really anything else you need to read before you can start this.

To look ahead a little after this, Hush starts to run in Batman and Brubaker start doing some other stuff in Detective Comics that doesn't get collected. And then (unfortunately) the next major event is War Games. But there's plenty of comics for you to read up to this point, so we'll stop here for now.

Other notes:

Catwoman does not really tie in to Bruce Wayne: Murderer/Fugitive but around the time that event is starting up, Brubaker is relaunching Catwoman. This is where she gets the black leather catsuit and this IS collected in Catwoman Vol. 1: Trail of the Catwoman. I have not read this, but I've heard that it's good. It's also getting reprinted soon I believe.

Robin does not really have any collected editions post NML. If you want to read him, you're going to need to do it some other way. His event tie in issues are collected though.

Nightwing DOES have some collected editions if you're interested in him though. Nightwing Vol. 5: The Hunt for Oracle overlaps with No Man's Land, but it also collects the start of what he's up to afterward. Following that, Vol. 6 collects the rest of the way up to Officer Down. Vol. 7 and the first 4 issues collected in Vol.8 collect the stuff between Officer Down and Bruce Wayne: Murderer/Fugitive.

Birds of Prey gets hooked in to events, but the comics themselves don't really contribute to the larger Gotham narrative going on. I still think they're fun though. Birds of Prey vol. 3 collects the Birds of Prey comics between the end of NML and Officer Down. There aren't any collected editions for the Dixon run after this though.

Batgirl! We can't forget Batgirl, it's very good. It does get roped into events, but most of it is standalone. Batgirl Vol. 1: Silent Knight collects the comics between the end of NML and Officer Down as well as Cass' Officer Down tie in. This volume is harder to track down/more expensive on the resale market, but if your library as Hoopla, it's available there. (Most of these trades that I'm mentioning are as far as I'm aware.) Vol. 2 collects the comics leading up to Bruce Wayne: Murderer and then a couple, and Vol 3 collects a couple of the tie ins for Fugitive I believe and then beyond. They can largely be read on their own terms.

I would be remiss if I didn't recommend that you also read Batman/Huntress: Cry for Blood. This is a six issue mini-series takes place relatively shortly after NML and was recently reprinted as Birds of Prey: Huntress. Definitely read this! It is good! Also you can see what Helena's up to after NML.

Finally, at a point in time between Officer Down and Bruce Wayne: Murderer, Joker: Last Laugh happens which is the event where Dick kills the Joker and Bruce revives him. Every comic has a tie-in where they have to fight Jokerized villains and honestly that could be the extent of your engagement with this comic. The main issues of this event are theoretically collected but also I've never seen this trade anywhere and also it's not on Hoopla (which is how I read most of my trades) so that might prove an issue.

To summarize all of this (I'm using bolded entries to demarcate crossover events. You can jump around between entries in this list between them as they largely run concurrently.) (the exception being like Nightwing vol 5 and 6. The Hunt for Oracle Crossover between Nightwing and Birds of Prey is also collected in both Nightwing vol 5 and Birds of Prey vol. 3):

New Gotham vol. 1

Gotham Knights: Transferrence

Batman/Huntress: Cry for Blood

Batgirl vol. 1

Nightwing vol. 5 and vol. 6

Batman by Ed Brubaker vol. 1 (first 4 issues)

Officer Down

The rest of Batman by Ed Brubaker vol. 1

New Gotham vol. 2

Gotham Knights: Contested

Batgirl vol. 2

Nightwing vol. 7 and Nightwing vol. 8 (first 4 issues)

Bruce Wayne: Murderer and Bruce Wayne: Fugitive

Catwoman Volume 1: The Trail of Catwoman (Running roughly concurrently with Murderer/Fugitive)

Batgirl vol. 3

Gotham Central vol. 1

Batman: Hush

etc etc

I think that's it, but I'm sure that if I missed anything one of my lovely and knowledgeable mutuals will point it out.

Clear as mud? But seriously, I hoped this cleared things up for you and please do not hesitate to ask follow up questions! If this list is overwhelming, I would say, Nightwing, Birds of Prey, Batgirl, and Cry for Blood (though as a Helena fan, I really do think you should read Cry for Blood) are less essential to the building Gotham plot that leads up to Murder/Fugitive, but I really do think you should read Gotham Knights. There's some really fun comics in this era, I hope you enjoy!

[ninadove]

Nina reads Dracula 🦇

May 8th

Today we pick up where we left off with our good friend Jonathan!!! I hope he’s having a wonderful day!!!

I began to fear as I wrote in this book that I was getting too diffuse; but now I am glad that I went into detail from the first, for there is something so strange about this place and all in it that I cannot but feel uneasy. I wish I were safe out of it, or that I had never come.

:(

If there were any one to talk to I could bear it, but there is no one. I have only the Count to speak with, and he! —

Every day this story reads more and more like a Beauty and the Beast retelling… 🦇🌹

I only slept a few hours when I went to bed, and feeling that I could not sleep any more, got up. I had hung my shaving glass by the window, and was just beginning to shave. Suddenly I felt a hand on my shoulder, and heard the Count's voice saying to me, "Good-morning."

JUMPSCARE

I started, for it amazed me that I had not seen him, since the reflection of the glass covered the whole room behind me. In starting I had cut myself slightly, but did not notice it at the moment.

Uh-oh.

When the Count saw my face, his eyes blazed with a sort of demoniac fury, and he suddenly made a grab at my throat.

At least buy him dinner fi — oooooh so that’s what all this food was about… got it… carry on…

I drew away, and his hand touched the string of beads which held the crucifix. It made an instant change in him, for the fury passed so quickly that I could hardly believe that it was ever there.

"Take care," he said, "take care how you cut yourself. It is more dangerous than you think in this country."

THE CRUCIFIX WORKS MY FRIENDS

"And this is the wretched thing that has done the mischief. It is a foul bauble of man's vanity. Away with it!" and opening the heavy window with one wrench of his terrible hand, he flung out the glass, which was shattered into a thousand pieces on the stones of the courtyard far below. Then he withdrew without a word. It is very annoying, for I do not see how I am to shave —

HOW IS THAT EVEN A TOPIC OF CONCERN RIGHT NOW JONATHAN

The castle is on the very edge of a terrible precipice. A stone falling from the window would fall a thousand feet without touching anything! […]

But I am not in heart to describe beauty, for when I had seen the view I explored further; doors, doors, doors everywhere, and all locked and bolted. In no place save from the windows in the castle walls is there an available exit.

The castle is a veritable prison, and I am a prisoner!

A PRISONER WHO CAN’T EVEN SHAVE!!!!! (and shouldn’t)

Of one thing only am I certain; that it is no use making my ideas known to the Count.

Smart.

[The Count] did not come at once into the library, so I went cautiously to my own room and found him making the bed. This was odd, but only confirmed what I had all along thought—that there were no servants in the house. When later I saw him through the chink of the hinges of the door laying the table in the dining-room, I was assured of it; for if he does himself all these menial offices, surely it is proof that there is no one else to do them.

It’s not his fault his love language is acts of service 🥺

This gave me a fright, for if there is no one else in the castle, it must have been the Count himself who was the driver of the coach that brought me here.

HOLY SHIT I DIDN’T THINK OF THAT

I must be very careful, however, not to awake his suspicion.

May I suggest you STOP WRITING YOUR GODDAMN JOURNAL AND BURN THE WHOLE THING THEN

In his speaking of things and people, and especially of battles, he spoke as if he had been present at them all.

HAHAHA… Haaa…

Blood is too precious a thing in these days of dishonourable peace;

You would think that, wouldn’t you.

(Mem., this diary seems horribly like the beginning of the "Arabian Nights," for everything has to break off at cockcrow—or like the ghost of Hamlet's father.)

:))))))))))))

Guys… I don’t want to alarm anyone… but I think… I think the Count might be… you know…

… a werewolf…

< Prev 🦇 Next >

[allthecanadianpolitics]

On Saturday, thousands of union members across disciplines formed a common front and marched through the streets of Montreal. On Sunday, members of the Interprofessional Lanaudière Health Union (FIQ-SIL) launched their own demonstration in front of the constituency office of Quebec Premier Francois Legault in L'Assomption, Que.

Many spent the day at his office doorstep, and several of them set up camp to stay the night, with plans to march through the streets of the municipality Monday morning.

FIQ-SIL President Marie-Chantal Bédard says the round-the-clock demo reflects the working reality of nurses.

Full article

Tagging: @politicsofcanada

[celestial-corner-of-desires]

Good day~ Are you accepting requests for Violet Evergarden? If so, may it be some soft moments with Dietfried and reader, please? Falling asleep on his significant other's laps? And his significant other stroking his head gently smiling. Much appreciated~

Thank you so much for submitting your request, my dear!

I hope I did him fair justice!

If you were to ask anyone what their first impression of Dietfried was, more than likely it would be along the lines of "the defined naval captain of Leidenschaftlich", " the charming and compassionate gentleman", or "dedicated leader, with the burden of assisting rebuild of Leidenschaftlich". To few known people he is heartless man who is willing to treat others as tools for any necessary means. But to you? A man with disclosed, but warming heart, who is funny and playful at times, while also keeping up the responsible face his workplace forces him to wear. Dietfried is the kind of man who despite working for long hours in his office, still finds time to come home, to embrace you in gentle hug. A simple touch from you is enough to return some light in his mind, after dark memories from his past haunt him in the moments of exhaustion.

If there is one thing Dietfried wouldn't admit to is his love for laying his head on top of your lap. If you had a dollar for how many times he silently pleads with his eyes to lay on your lap, you could end the world hunger. Dietfried is very decreet with how he asks for attention. Say you are sitting on the couch, catching up on the latest volume of your favorite novel, one that has been taunting you to read for the past week. Your eyes are scanning through the words, the imagery of the climax between two main characters is keeping you on your toes and you can't put it down. Suddenly, you feel Dietfried sits next to you, wrapping arms around your waist.

"So it seems that I no longer hold value in your eyes, my love. Here I am, on my day off, wanting to spend some time with my beloved. Only to be betrayed, and replaced by a book."

You chuckled at his pouty statement. " Well, I would enjoy my time with you, if you are willing to admit that you were wrong and I was right."

"For the last time, the letter said to meet at 9 o'clock, not 8."

"Even so, with all your military expertise, I would expect you to come earlier to the meeting."

"I am sorry, the previous night's documents have kept me all night. You have to cut me some slack for oversleeping." Dietfried nudges you to forgive him.

"That's not an excuse, dear. Since you seem to prioritize sleep over spending time with me, maybe I should stop letting you sleep on my lap." You tease the poor man.

You have never seen a man so shocked in his life. His eyes were blown out from the sheer fear of losing his favorite activity, besides kissing you.

"You are being heartless." Looking straight into your eyes, Dietfried is trying to see if you are serious about it, or joking. Trying to keep your face as still as possible, you gave him a simple smile. "I will admit my defeat, and I would like to offer my sincerest apologies for thinking otherwise.

Feeling that you got what you wanted, you gently pushed your free hand through Dietfried's hair, leaning forward to place a kiss on his cheek.

"See that wasn't that difficult, hehe."

Sighing, Dietfried placed his head on top of your lap, feeling the light sensation of peace hitting his buddy. To top it off your hand ran through his hair, patting and massaging his head in a rhythmic pattern. With your eyes returning back to the novel, and a gentle smile on your face. What more can he ask for, when he is already in heaven? The only thing that could make it perfect is if he were to ask you to be his wife and you said yes, but this is not the moment for such a major event. He knows that moment needs to be something bigger and more heartfelt. For you have given him so much. Having the patience to wait for him when he works late. It is his heart to bear all the struggles and sad memories that haunt him. When he lost Gilbert, the pain that coursed through his mind was beyond any pain he experienced. You still remember the day when he received the news from the messenger, the letter documenting his brother's records of deceased. That was the day when you saw someone who always conducted himself professionally and seriously when the time came, to break his persona into pieces. He wasn't sure what to do, and only because of your support and love, he was slowly, but not fully recovering from the heartbreak of the loss of Gilbert.

Laying there, surrounded by nothing but the tranquility of this moment, he knew that this was something he would never give up on in his life. Being here with you was something he never imaged happening in his future. He always believed that he would end up marrying someone because of his family status, not finding someone who can stand with him. But you changed that, giving courage when he needed it the most, loving him when everyone around him viewed as the lowest scum by how he treated Miss Violet Evergarden. You were someone who didn't see look at him through the lenses of his status or his actions. You were looking at a Dietfried, a man with bright smile, who cherishes his family, and is willing to work hard beyond his capacity. You saw a man who can achieve anything he desires, while also being someone who is simple in his heart.

"Thank you."

You kept your eyes on the pages, but your mind was on him. "For what, Dietfried?"

"For being here. For loving me. For caring about me. For supporting me at my lowest. I know that I don't say it enough as I should, but I am grateful for you. I find myself falling in love with you in more with every passing day. I love you."

You looked down at him smiling. "I love you too. And I promise I won't threaten your lap-napping time."

Dietfried chuckles, before closing his eyes in peace.

(Do not repost without permission. Sharing is allowed with credits.)

[lauralot89]

(Kept in phonograph)

It's been a while since I read this, but he's recording in his office, right? So unless this place has good insulation, probably anyone in the vicinity can hear his diary.

Mem., under what circumstances would I not avoid the pit of hell?

Amazing.

I always forget Renfield is 59.

Sanguine temperament

I see what you did there.

drink a health with all our hearts to the happiest man in all the wide world, who has won the noblest heart that God has made and the best worth winning.

Quincey remains the ideal man

[wolfiafuntime]

About The Cultists IV

How some members of the Temple of Sumeru joined the cult, what they do at the cult, and where they went when they were told to leave.

Ft. Alhaitham, Candace, Collei, Cyno, Dehya, Dori, Escher, Faruzan, Kaveh, Layla, Nahida, Nilou, Tighnari

Tw: Cults, kids being in cults, near-death experiences

Published: October 14, 2023

Words: 1,169 (1,142 w/o the names)

Pages: 3.5 (3.4 w/o the names)

Alhaitham Scribe: Was introduced to the cult by Rukkhadevata, and joined shortly after; curious to know how the false religion grew so quickly. He quickly worked his way up to the job of Scribe, in which he recorded every major event within the Temple. He refused multiple offerings to become one of the Priests, and even the Grand Priest, despite the disdain it got for him each time. Currently works as a court stenographer. Currently lives in an apartment with his fellow believer, Kaveh, who constantly berates him for 'not worshipping Their Grace enough'.

Candace Aaru: Joined the cult when she was young, when her uncle convinced the majority of her family to join. As she grew, she was elected to become one of the Temple's youngest Matras, and after taking the position, she quickly became one of the most-liked ones. Spends most of her time being the only Temple's only contact to the outside world; getting groceries, letters, etc. After being told to move out, she got herself a job as a Teyvat City Police Officer, and moved into an suburbian house with her family.

Collei Eleazar: First joined the Church of Mondstadt branch of the cult when they 'saved her from starving to death as an orphan'. Later, she moved to the Temple of Sumeru to get around-the-clock medical help for a just-then-identified desease. Spends her time taking care of the plants within the Temple, and the forest surrounding part of it. Due to how severe her condition is, she didn't have to leave the Temple. But she decided to move in with her main caretaker, Tighnari, when he offered. Currently lives in a suburbian house.

Cyno Mahamatra: Learned about the cult from Cyrus, not long after becoming his foster son, but only joined shortly after meeting Tighnari. As he grew up, he worked his way up to the position of General Mahamatra. Spends his time either hunting down sinners, or playing Genius Invokation TGC with anybody willing to play with him. Due to his position, he was one of the few permitted to stay, and thus he never moved out of the Temple. He's also one of the few members without a job after moving ou, so he can dedicate more time to the Temple and Their Grace.

Dehya Flame-Mane: Was introduced to the cult when they saved her from homelessness in her teen years, and joined shortly after. At first spent her time training to become a Matra. But she later shifted gears when she learned the Temple had only a dozen people donating money to it, and she got herself a job at Eremite Security. Currently works as a manager there. When she was told to move out, she convinced multiple of co-workers to get an apartment with her close to their place of work, so she could give most of her paycheck to the Temple. Gives a 40% discount to all members of the cult.

Dori Sangemah Bay: Was introduced to the cult by Alice Hexenzirkl, and joined when she learned they could help her take care of her older sister. When she learned that the Temple of Sumeru was the poorest of all seven branches of the cult, she decided to spend her time making money for it. Somehow founded both a mall and shipping company, both named Alcazarzaray, and both extremely popular, and gets 45% of all financial proceeds. When she was told to move out, she got a penthouse in Teyvat City, which somehow didn't make a dent in her monthly donation to the cult.

'Escher Doctor': Was introduced to the cult when he and his team were told to investigate it. Originally 'joined' through a contact in the Church of Sneznhaya, but later transferred to the Temple of Sumeru, where he learned his lost daughter was a member. Spends his time treating sick members of the Temple, and using their weak minds to gain information from them. Currently works as a paramedic for Bimarstan, and currently lives in a suburbian house not far from Collei's.

Faruzan Haravatat: Was introduced to the cult by Tighnari and Collei, whom she not long after waking from a decade-long coma, and joined shortly after. Spends her time teaching the children and teens of the Temple both english and literature. When she was told to move out, she finished getting her doctorate in education, and took up a job teaching college kids english and literature. Currently lives in a studio apartment in Teyvat City, not too far from Akademiya University-- her place of work.

Kaveh Light: Was introduced to the cult by Dori when she hired him to build her mall, but didn't join until the project made him broke. Spends his time trying to find ways to sneak art in the Temple of Sumeru; finding it insulting that a place dedicated to The Creator doesn't have any creations of it's own. Currently works as a renowned architect, who is still broke on account of him donating all money he gains to the Temple. When he was told to move out, he tried looking for a place of his own, but eventually settled for Alhaitham's offer to live in his suburbian house.

Layla Rtawahist: Was introduced to the cult by Dori, but didn't join until three major events happened: Losing all of her scholarship money, gaining major insecurities and anxiety in college, and learning that her two idols (Mona and Lisa) were a part of the cult. Spends a lot of her time at the cult either sleeping or studying.

Nahida Irminsul: Was the first member born into the cult, and is believed to be the reincarnation of Their Grace's fourth-born: Sumeru. Due to this, she was granted the position of Dendro Archon. Mostly spends her time in solitude, being taught by Grand Priest Azar and the six priests below him. Due to her position, she's one of the few permitted to stay.

Nilou Zubayr: Was introduced to the cult by her idol, a man with the same last name as her, but didn't join until after meeting Dehya. Was shocked to learn that the Temple saw all forms of art as illegal, and only allowed it for people like architects and engineers. Spends her time trying to convince the Priests to allow art during bigger events held in Their Grace's name. Secretly works as a dancer at Zubayr Theatre, as the Temple doesn't allow artistic jobs. When she was told to move out, she got a studio apartment close to her job.

Tighnari Avidya: Was introduced to the cult when they saved him from a heat stroke, and joined shortly after. Spends his time taking care of the plants in and surrounding the Temple, and taking care of sick individuals. When he was told to move out, he got himself a job as a park ranger at a place named Gandharva Park, and moved into a suburbian house with Collei.

Link to series masterlist

[redge]

Kana, Aqua, and Akane

This post was sparked by what I read from yuseirra's post:

Just reading through the highlighted texts made me emotionally exhausted because since chapter 17 that showed "the face of a maiden that fell in love with the main character", it really has been like that the whole time.

It's a push and pull of feelings between Kana and Aqua. Like we see Kana and Aqua playing catch ball happily like delinquent teenagers skipping class in chapter 30 and then we see Aqua kissing Akane on the same chapter. We see Kana and Aqua do that "smart" errands in chapter 73, Aqua choosing color white for his luggage same as Kana's glow stick color, Aqua making a restaurant reservation in advance, telling her that those things are normal if he wants to make his partner happy, advanced booking her a ride home. Then few chapters later, we see Aqua and Akane kissing again in chapter 78. Kana was so careful threading through those things that happened in chapter 73. She even had the courage to ask about Akane, probably had a glimmer of hope when Aqua responded that they talked about it and will probably get an answer the next time they meet. When Kana realized that she likes Aqua, she asked Aqua if he had a girlfriend during the Sweet Today after party in chapter 18. This girl was considering to make a move on her feelings for Aqua but on the same chapter, Aqua was offered the reality dating show. Kana still haven't had the opportunity to confess her feelings to Aqua because how could she when he's dating for publicity that time? And when it was made clear that Aqua was just dating for work, she thought she could actually move ahead on her feelings but then Akane tells her in chapter 80 that "it's not a dating show anymore." I seriously felt Kana's shudder on that chapter. And as if that's not enough, Aqua tells her in chapter 81 that "I decided to go out with Akane for real." Kana was trying to sort out her feelings for Aqua who is dating for real now but she can't help but feel hurt when Aqua distanced himself to her. She tells Mem in chapter 81 that she knows Aqua is not doing anything wrong but him avoiding her just really hurts. Before she liked Aqua, he was someone whom she was happy to know that is still on the same industry as her. He is one of the few people she's familiar with in this industry and then he decided to avoid her.

*I realized that Honest Feeling I was playing in the background send help*

Then there's Aqua. When Aqua decided to distance himself from Kana, it was Mem who tried to talk it out to Aqua.

(looking back, it was a smart move to actually put a character in her 20s to deal with these characters in their teens so there's someone a little mature watching over them. Memcho deserve all the love *waves yellow glowstick*)

There was an argument in the fandom that chapter 83 did not really prove that Aqua has feelings for Kana because it was not love, it was an obsession but my take on this chapter were Aqua's thought processes. He tells Mem

Aqua: Do you think I didn't know that Arima would get hurt when I suddenly tried to avoid her?

Keyword is tried because though he tried to avoid her, he still watches her closely despite his busy schedule. He tells Miyako in chapter 103 that Arima never skipped practice. How would you know that when you're too busy avoiding her, locking yourself in your room when Kana is in the agency office? Keyword is tried because even though Aqua considered dating Akane for real, in chapter 87, Akane still saw through him and realized that "Aqua-kun is attracted to Kana-chan". Everyone knows, everyone sees it but Kana and Aqua are two broken tsundere individuals who can't admit their feelings to each other oh these two dummies T_T

Aqua: If an idol has a boyfriend, her fans will get mad.

When he told Mem that he started to think of the future earnestly, being a boyfriend to someone was one of the considerations, but then he was snapped back to reality that Kana is an idol and though Kana told him in chapter 73 that "the freedom of love is a basic human right", it's not always the case for idols.

And then we got chapter 107. These two are too tsundere of a character they won't admit to whatever they're feeling for each other.

Aqua: What should I have said then, "you'd better keep your distance before you fall in love with me"?

Kana: Who would fall for a gloomy narcissist like you, anyway?!

***

Kana: For your information, I've never thought of you as a love interest and I never will.

Aqua: Is that so?

***

Kana: You're my precious friend.

Aqua: friend...

***

Kana: By all means, I won't fall for a guy who has a girlfriend.

Aqua: I broke up with Akane already.

My goodness I want to strangle these two. If/when they end up together, I want them to return to this moment and go "if you liked me why did you tell me before that you won't fall for me?! And then tell me that I'm your precious friend?! You know how I felt that time?!" "How would I know?! You suddenly avoided me! I didn't even know that you and Akane already broke up! And have you ever told me that you like me too?!"

But still, more than a hundred chapters later, Kana didn't get the opportunity to tell her feelings to Aqua. It's been a long time since she realized she likes Aqua. So many things happened. So many times when her heart's been broken and she still thinks of him. Her thoughts on chapter 150 saying

Kana: I bet you don't understand it. What about you? Are you looking at me earnestly? Even though the intensity might not be the same, do you look at me with a certain amount of interest?

And then concluding that she is seriously in love? After everything? Heartache after heartache and you are still in love?! Oh Arima Kana.

And you know what's interesting? On times we see Aqua the most decisive, it seems that it always starts with Kana. She is his motivation. And that one time I saw Aqua confused and lost track of what to do, was when he accidentally hurt Kana. When Kana offered Aqua a role in Sweet Today, he agreed when he heard Kaburagi's name- knowing it would lead him closer to Ai's previous relationship/s. In chapter 16, we got a glimpse of Kana's life past her child actor era.

Kana: I couldn't get a job at all. I thought of quitting again and again. However, someone has finally acknowledged my skills! It's been tough but I'm glad I kept going!

Kana was so hopeful, but then Aqua found out that it was not that someone acknowledged her acting ability; Kaburagi was simply using her name. What happened next? Aqua decided to take on the scene seriously, setting the stage for Kana, so that Kana can show her acting ability.

In chapter 50, when Kindaichi required him to bring out more emotions into his acting, it was Kana who told him why it's difficult for him to do emotional acting.

Kana: Aqua, you haven't done emotional acting before, right? Acting gives away your personality. Since you normally don't show emotion, we can't feel any emotion in your acting either. You're just trying to reenact some samples that you saw somewhere. That's your nature, Aqua.

This is Kana wielding her weapon of a sharp tongue because inside her head...

Kana: I might have gone too far but if I didn't say it, no one would.

And what happened next? Aqua (in his head again because these two are so bad at communicating things to each other I really want to strangle them both) agreed to everything Kana said and because he really wanted to do good on his role, he asked what he could do to improve. Sadly, it also triggered his trauma, but despite that, he wants to act his role properly. Which is why though he hates showing his previous roles to anybody, he agreed to show it to Akane in chapter 52 because he knows Akane could help him improve his acting ability.

In chapter 61, Kana's habit of putting others in the spotlight pissed him off, and made him decide to push Kana into the spotlight. Even Kana was surprised when Aqua did the ad-libs. Aqua did all these to set the stage for Kana, so she could show what she's capable of.

When Kana was caught in a scandal, Aqua met the reporter and exchanged information that would help save Kana though it would hurt Ruby and would reveal Ai's secret that they've all been keeping.

On chapter 146, when shooting the movie was almost over, Kana saw how his role affected Aqua.

Aqua: I just want to die like this.

Kana: For your information, I won't be sad even if you die. I'll slap your corpse, curse at it like I always do, and forget about you in no time. If you don't like it, promise me, you'll never say anything about dying again, even as a joke.

Aqua: ...

Kana: Promise me!

Aqua: Fine. I promise.

I feel that in the earlier chapters, Aqua had already made the decision to die in the process of his revenge. He even mentioned earlier on that he already died once so it's no big deal if he dies again. But on chapter 146, when Kana told him to promise not to say anything about dying, he agreed. And I want to trust Aqua that this is not an empty promise because in chapter 151,

Kana: What are you going to do in the future?

Aqua was surprised with this question because he stopped considering his future. When Ruby got mad at him in chapter 106, his thoughts were "this is necessary so you can live in this world...even after I'm gone." Then Kana go on asking him about his future- a future he thought of giving up. Did he deny that future? No. He had an answer.

Aqua: For now, I'm planning on applying to medical school. It was my dream to become a heart surgeon.

It was because of this future and dreams that we get a head start on the last arc of the story. Aqua knows he needs to settle his revenge so he, and everyone else, could move forward into the future.

I know chapter 151 is not the first time Aqua thought about his future with being a surgeon as an option. He also mentioned this to Mem in chapter 83. He considered having a future when he thought that his revenge was over. Then in chapter 95, Ichigo told him that nothing's over yet. And in the same chapter, when Aqua was getting confused, drenched in the rain, clouded by his thoughts that he need to fulfill the revenge again, he unintentionally hurt Kana. What happens next? He was a complete mess. He didn't know what to do. The decisiveness he had when Kana was his motivation disappeared when he realized he hurt Kana. We may not have gotten a solid "I've always liked Kana" from Aqua like what we got from Kana but I would like to believe that Kana is an important person to Aqua whom he considers a lot when making his decisions and considering a future for himself.

Remember that before Akane knew Aqua, there was Kana. In chapter 59, during the fight between Tsurugi and Sayahime, Akane thought "I'm here because of you" as she looks at Kana. Akane as a child, admired the genius child actor. Though her parents suggested to her to start acting, she was hesitant, telling her parents that she can't do it because she's shy and timid. But what made her change her mind? It was when her father told her "you might even become friends with Kana-chan".

We haven't got an "I like Kana" solid confirmation from Aqua but not in the case of Kana. Kana probably realized she likes Aqua from chapter 17 but it was only in chapter 148 when it was explicitly confirmed that Kana had always liked Aqua and who did Kana reveal this truth? To Akane Kurokawa- to that person who, in chapter 87, realized that "Aqua is attracted to Kana-chan." I've always wondered why Akane was so surprised with Kana's revelation and I would like to interpret it as it suddenly hit her that Kana and Aqua, the two persons she cares for the most, actually likes each other. For me, Akane is like the Hanazawa Rui of Oshi no Ko. She is the character that has a strong attachment both to Kana and Aqua and their happiness would be her happiness.

Akane: If I become friends with Kana-chan, I could die happy.

Little Akane admired Little Kana so much that she tried to be like Kana in the most literal sense: Akane worked hard to become a child actor herself like Kana and she copied her style, from the haircut to the hat. It was so on point that the guy in chapter 60 confused Akane as Kana. On the same chapter, Akane finally met Kana. It was not a good encounter but it was very monumental to Akane.

Akane: That man was saying something weird. He said that they had decided for you on this audition. It must've been some kind of mistake. You never cheat.

Kana: What if I did?

***

Akane: Kana-chan, are you okay with that?

Kana: Of course I am. I'll get a job that way.

***

Kana: Who cares about acting anyway?!

Akane: No, that's not true. That's not what you really think, right? How can you not care about acting?!

This encounter left Akane puzzled. Why was Kana acting that way? She didn't know the answer so she studied. She immersed herself to understand her. Chapter 60 showed us the intensity of how Akane studied a lot to understand Kana. She got interested to a lot of Psychology books like Boyhood Psychology, Gentle Behavior Psychology, A Guide to Understanding a Person's Heart, Psychological Methods that can be used in daily life, An Introduction to Psychology for Children. When Akane thought "I'm here because of you", it's not just because she started acting because of Kana. Even her way of acting, that Raida described in chapter 42 as "the immersive type that gets into her role" was sparked by that encounter with Kana when they were little. It's so interesting how Akane acknowledges Kana as an actor. Having watched her since she was a genius child actor, she knows what Kana is capable of. She knows what little Kana went through. She knows about Kana matching other's pace, synchronizing with them, and she knows that Kana can do better. She picked all this up because she admired Kana for a long time. As she said in chapter 60,

Akane: Kana-chan, the actor I loved, was more selfish and overwhelming. It was something that shone brightly like the sun.

Which is why in chapter 87, when Aqua picked her up from the studio, she had this realization.

Akane: I'm aware of it. Aqua-kun is attracted to Kana-chan. I probably noticed it a long time ago.

Because Aqua also saw through Kana. The things Akane saw in Kana through the lens of a person who admired her for a long time, Aqua saw it too.

Then we got chapter 149. If you followed through this post, I pointed out that Kana really tried to get a move on her feelings to Aqua, but she never got the opportunity. She thought that after Aqua confirmed that he and Akane had broken up, maybe she would give it a try again, for the nth time but then

Kana: You guys still love each other, don't you? It's best for you to get back together.

Akane: What are you talking about all of a sudden?

***

Kana: That's how it is afterall. I totally got the wrong idea when he started being friendly with me again. I guess that's my weak point.

The mental workout Kana does as a character like I can actually feel those tears and I would totally understand if Kana just declares "I don't want to do this anymore" but Kana is so persevering I love her so much but Aka-sensei come on, just conclude this already I'm not as persevering as Kana T_T

If we got a confirmation in chapter 148 that Kana has always liked Aqua, chapter 149 showed us the standpoint of Akane towards Aqua. Akane made it clear in chapter 149 that she and Aqua are over. She waa truthful when she says to Kana "I've already put my romantic feelings in order when we broke up" bold and loud. But Kana, even being presented by those facts, still thinks that she's no good. She has always recognized everyone's charms except her own.

Kana: If I were Aqua, I'd also choose you.

Akane: Why?

Kana: Because you're pretty. Everyone thinks you're beautiful and smart. You also have skills as an actor and your personality is kind.

Hearing this from the person you admired for a long time, oh Akane, you've come this far and I am very happy for you ♡

I love the next conversation of Akane and Kana because it's the usual, scolding banters that you do with your friends. And Akane have always wanted to be friends with Kana.

Akane: You don't even have the courage to confess to yourself right now. It just seems that you're running away!

Kana: You're wrong! That kind of thing needs perfect timing.

"Perfect Timing". The whole time, all Kana was really looking for is that perfect timing opportunity to tell Aqua her feelings that never presented itself on its own. But this time, it's different because Akane is there to set that timing and no other character should set it up except her. Why? Because the whole time Kana was trying to make a move on her feelings for Aqua, Akane is always between them but this is not Akane's fault. If you want to put a finger on anyone, put it on Aka-sensei. Kidding. I respect your writing, Aka-sensei!

Again, if you read through this long post, it's always the timing, the opportunity that Kana keeps on missing. And now that Akane confirmed in chapter 149 that

Akane: Aqua-kun and I don't have that relationship anymore. I'm not a woman who doesn't know when to let go of her ex-boyfriend! I'm still in touch with him knowing that we've had a clean break! Right now, I just want to wish for Aqua-kun's happiness. I already put my romantic feelings in order when we broke up!

The timing has been set. I take this confirmation from Akane with all sincerity. Denying this truth from Akane and still pushing her feelings romantically towards Aqua would be unfair for her character. If Aqua, for the rest of the story, would realize that he likes Akane for real, then that's a different scenario. But in the case of Akane, she made it clear in chapter 149 that her romantic feelings for Aqua is over. Again, in my opinion, Kurokawa Akane is the Hanazawa Rui (Hana Yori Dango) of this story. Even when Makino decided to go out with Rui, he knows deep down, that Makino likes Domyouji and Domyouji likes Makino. And Rui was there to make sure that these two set their feelings straight. Hanazawa Rui is that important character that wanted happiness for both Makino and Domyouji and Kurokawa Akane is in the same position as Rui, for Kana and Aqua.

A hundred plus chapters later, Kana finally gets the opportunity that she kept on missing. It was important that Kana was the one who initiated the first step towards whatever path their story would take because she has been trying to get a move on her feelings for Aqua since she realized that she likes him. It's not that Kana has been so dependent to Aqua that her entire character circles around him. It's just that she fell seriously in love with him. And it was not an instant love. It's a love that developed over time. It's that kind of love that regardless of hurt, heartache, and pain, it just grew stronger. And I admire Kana for holding on to these feelings of love.

All that's left is Aqua. In chapter 150

Gorou, talking to Aqua: Anyway...it's all up to you.

With the stage being set, it's now up to Aqua how he will go about it. His revenge, Kana's declaration, it's all up to him.

***

TL;DR

Akasaka-sensei is so good at messing with OnK readers' feelings I admire him and want to strangle him at the same time.

[irlcats-bracket]

Bracket 1 SEMIFINALS 1

AVIE VERSUS RUSTY

AVIE

AVIE

Her full name is Avalon but that's too regal for her so she's just Avie. Yes submitter named her. She's an unrepentant food thief that makes the most (adorable) indignant sounds when they remove her from the source of temptation, purrs loud enough to be heard from across the room, and is so SO very tiny with tiny legs and the smallest little dainty paws. But her most important feature... is the tongue. She forgets it out so often. Asleep? Tongue. Grooming and something made a noise? Tongue. Just casually staring? Tongue's peekin' out a lil bit. Submitter loves her so much. And SHE loves YOU. Guaranteed. This is a lap cat. If you come visit, park it anywhere and she is on your lap to say hello.

PROPAGANDA

this is her RIGHT NOW (not anymore lmao) look at her she has no idea that she has fans. not a care in the world. tongue still out. no thoughts head empty.

also look what a cute lil ball she makes

Fun fact: She often does the maneki-neko pose, and it is always adorable. Here it is on full display during last night's snuggle sesh.

RUSTY

Rusty used to be a stray and then he had An Accident and now he has three legs (he had been living at a vet's office for a month when submitter adopted him). But he's doing great! Submitter taught him how to climb stairs and built him some steps out of cardboard boxes so he can get on their bed whenever he wants. They think he could be anywhere from 6 to 12 years old, it's hard to say ¯\_(ツ)_/¯. To their pleasant surprise, he does not mind wearing a harness at all, which is good because he still loves the outdoors. He often gets his ear turned inside out while bathing and weirdly prefers dry food over wet.

PROPAGANDA

breaking: semi-feral baby learns to cuddle, becomes addicted to laying on my face

and here he is chillin on the patio with me!

vote for rusty #1 best at sticking out leg

when i first got Rusty he could not go up stairs... but he could go down, so he would get stuck at the bottom of them and meow for help. Of course he also hated being picked up and carried up the stairs.

but now he just goes ZOOP up the stairs doing audible damage to my carpet the whole way, which is so valid of him because i hate carpet on stairs