#one for singing one for acting one for dance

[trippinsorrows]

without you + five

authors note: well, it's been a while...for obvious reasons. after a lot of deliberation and polls from my followers, i've decided to see this story through to the end. there won't be a book 3, so once this is done, it's done.

this and my only other joe story, give me a reason, will be the end of my joe fics.

i also redid the taglist for this story, again, for obvious reasons. so, if you wish to be tagged moving forward, you have to sign up here.

warnings: none

song inspo: be without you by mary j. blige

masterlist

words: 5.3k

Lately, I've been going through some things that's really got me down

I need someone, somebody, to help me come and turn my life around

I can't explain it

I can't obtain it

Five months pregnant with triplets, barefoot, moving and dancing around the bathroom, curling iron in hand as you retouch your curls isn’t exactly how you planned for this morning to go, but how does that saying go? We make plans, and God laughs?

Yeah, the big man must be having a time up there, because it’s most definitely been a chaotic morning to say the least.

It started out with you trying to surprise your daughter and fiancé with a special breakfast for an extra special day. Nothing too crazy. Just some sausage, eggs, and waffles with that fancy waffle maker you were gifted during the baby shower. It would have been fine and perfect but not for the fact that damn waffle maker wasn’t as simple and easy as marketed. Far from it, because somehow you ended up burning the first set. A mishap that resulted in the smoke detectors going off and waking up not only your man but his mini me.

Callie’s sleepy face morphed into a scowl at being woken up unnecessarily early, her little hands rubbing her eyes as Joe worked to turn off the alarms that blared all throughout the big house.

“Mommy,” she spoke, forcing you to look away from where your less than stellar eggs somehow looked so different from when Joe made them. “I think you should let daddy cook.”

“And, I think you should mind your business, Little Ms. Ma’am.”

“She’s not wrong,” Joe huffed from where he stood on a chair, finger down on the button, trying to reset it.

“Shut up,” you murmured, sighing and turning to your daughter. “How about mommy makes you—”

“Y/N, don’t touch nothing else.”

You pouted, arms crossed over your big ass breast and even bigger belly. “That is rude.”

Callie was suddenly at your side, big brown eyes looking up with all the understanding. “It’s okay. I’ll have cereal.”

“Naw, I’ll make you some pancakes, baby,” Joe protested, stepping down from the chair. “Just give me a minute.”

“I can make the—”

“Why don’t you sit down, babe?” He asked, walking up and stealing a kiss, rubbing your stomach. “Rest. You shouldn’t be on your feet.”

Your pout returned as you whined almost, “but, it’s our big day. I wanted to do something special.”

“Well, burning down our house ain’t it.”

You sucked your teeth, punching him on his big ass arm, warning, “you got one more time.” He shook his head, completely unaffected and unbothered. “Acting like I won’t F you up.”

It's a quick save. Censoring yourself last minute due to the presence of your daughter who stood in front of the pantry, trying to reach the pancake batter for her favorite person.

Joe’s deep voice sounded as he chuckled. “I’d like to see you try.”

“Don’t think cause you done knocked me up with your big headed ass children, I can’t and won’t.”

His laughter echoed down the hall, right as your mom walked in, adjusting her robe.

“Girl, what you done burned now?”

“Mama!”

That was not even two hours ago.

Joe made good on his promise and righted your many wrongs, preparing an amazing breakfast for everyone with the help of your mom and your daughter. Perhaps Callie was right.

Maybe you should just let him cook.

“Makes me clap my hands, makes me wanna dance, stomp,” you sing along lightly to the song you grew up listening to, careful not to burn your fingers the way you burned up breakfast.

“Mommy!”

Turning to your left, you almost do just that.

But, it's so worth it. A sight that brings tears to your eyes. Tears you have a hard time not shedding but do your best to avoid letting fall, because you want to prevent messing up your makeup.

“Baby….”

She looks so pretty and adorable in her white dress with gold trim. Little gold studs in her ears. Her hair down and free, curls so perfectly defined and coiled, perfect styling courtesy of your mom. Her shoes are also white and gold, matching her all gold socks. And then there’s that smile. God, every time she smiles, you see it. See Joe. See yourself.

See the two of you.

Callie spins around, holding her dress. “You like it, mommy?”

“I love it, baby girl.” You truly do. “You look like a princess—”

“I look like Moana!” She says happily, walking over, little hand on your stomach. “Not you, baby sister. The real Moana!”

A happy chuckle leaves your mouth as you place the curling iron on the counter, doing your best to lean over and hug her. “I love you so much, Calista.”

She hugs back, holding you just as tight. “I love you too, mama!”

A small knock on the door reveals your mom standing there in a simple white dress, her box braids pulled into a neat bun atop her head. She doesn’t wear much makeup, but she doesn’t need to. When it comes to looks, there’s no question where you got yours from.

“Don’t she look pretty?”

Callie smiles and nods happily, pointing to you. “I look like, mommy!”

Your mom makes a sound, feigning some sort of indecision. “I don’t know, sweetie pie. I’m starting to see more and more of your daddy in you.”

You gasp, grabbing and holding Callie close. “Naw, this is my baby. Her daddy ain’t the one who pushed her out the co—”

“Y/N.”

You roll your eyes, murmuring a quiet “sorry” to your mom, releasing Callie, directing her, “why don’t you let daddy see how pretty you look?”

At the idea of being around her best friend in the world, your baby girl is jumping and leaping for joy.

“Yay!”

Before you can even say anything, she’s turning on her heel and rushing out the bathroom. Her departure leaves just you and your mom alone. The mood shifts, something warm and maternal. She walks over, positioning the both of you so she’s hugging you from behind.

The most heartfelt sigh leaves her mouth as she maintains eye contact through the mirror. “Your grandma would be so proud of you.”

Heartfelt words that instantly have your eyes watering yet again. You miss her so much, and every time you think about the fact that she never got to meet Callie, a small part of you grieves her death like it’s the immediate days after all over again.

“And so am I.”

A welcomed addition, your voice soft and vulnerable. “Yeah?”

Your mom sighs once more, holding you just a little tighter, like you’re still that spitfire little girl that always gave her a run for her money but also made her life so much more meaningful. “You know how I feel about you and Joe started.” Very much so. Even with all you know regarding the truth of his marriage with Jadah, the fact of the matter remains that an affair occurred. It’s something you’ll probably always struggle with to a certain extent. “But regardless of all that, I truly do believe God meant that man for you. This is the life you deserve. A beautiful, healthy, happy family.”

Words that have never hit so deeper than in this moment. Her hands settle on your stomach. “Thank you, mama.” A deep, thick swallow. “I love you.”

“I love you too, Y/N.” She kisses your cheek, clearing her throat and stepping back. “Now reach me that curling iron so I can fix whatever you thought you were doing to your hair.”

“Mama!”

—————

First thing in the morning at City Hall proves to be the perfect time of the day to have a “legal only” wedding. Not too many people outside of the employees and workers, but even better, no one who recognizes Joe. Or, rather, they don’t approach him, because with how mainstream he’s become over the past few years, you have a hard time believing not even one person knows who this man is.

So for the probable respect that said folks have for him, for the small group of ya’ll, you’re eternally grateful.

The last thing you want is this getting out to the media.

Joe, being the amazing, type A man that he is, already handled a lot of what needed to be completed to make this happen. There’s only some standard procedures like providing ID and paperwork that the both of you need to sign to “seal the deal,” so to speak. It’s all relatively straightforward and takes less time than expected, proving that arriving so “early” wasn’t necessarily needed.

Especially since the rules don’t allow for “weddings” to take place outside of the specified appointment time, thus giving you all some time to kill. It works for you, but not necessarily for your daughter who seems to get bored much quicker the older she gets. Thus, your and Joe’s mom, who met you at the courthouse, taking her around the building to explore and take pictures.

That leaves just you and Joe in the waiting room.

“So.” He says, your hands locked together, his thumb running over your knuckles and the rock on your finger.

“So,” you mock, taking a second to admire his appearance. Joe has always been ridiculously attractive, but age only seems to do him better and better. He looks so damn handsome in his black suit, designer, custom, the white tie the perfect complement to your white dress. Hair pulled back in that perfect man bun he mastered well before you met him, it allows an unobstructed view of his face. His features chiseled and well defined. Just so damn fine.

He chuckles, looking over at you. “Still want to do this?”

You were expecting him to ask as such, but it still makes you smile. “Are you?” Moving your conjoined hands to your baby bump, you continue on the path of playfulness. “Though I’d think real careful about that answer, because child support for four kids, especially in the state of Florida from what I’ve read, can be real steep.”

He eyes you, almost skeptical. “Why you looking that up?”

Shrugging, you answer honestly. “Curious.”

“Yeah, well, get uncurious.”

“That’s not a word, sir.”

“You’re such a fucking teacher.”

“Ahh, it was that too,” you suddenly remember. “I was also looking into what I need to do to get my teaching license in this state.”

“Yeah?”

You nod, further explaining as he moves your hands around your stomach. “Seems relatively straightforward. I already put in my application for the test. Apparently, it can take some time to be approved, so I figured better to have it in the system now and wait versus doing it later and having to wait even longer.”

He doesn’t say anything, but you can see the wheels in his head turning. He wants to say something. “What?”

Unfortunately, sharing doesn’t seem to be on his agenda. “Nothing.”

You sigh. Does he not know you?

“C’mon, big daddy, you know I’m not gon’ let up till you tell me.” Especially since you two have already argued about this same subject once. You were under the impression it was all good, but if that’s not the case, you want to know.

“I don’t know, I just…I want you to take it easy.” And before you can protest, he lifts his other hand. “I know you can handle yourself, Y/N. You always have, but that’s just the thing. We’re about to be married now. I know a lot of it was on you with Callie, but it’s not gonna be like that this time. I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere.” His baritone voice deepens, weighed down with sincerity and love. “I’m gonna take care of you. Take care of all of us. You work when you feel ready and like it’s a good move, not because you’re so used to handling things on your own, and you feel like you need to provide.”

His words hit deep and linger in a way you haven’t experienced. He’s not wrong. Like you’d told and explained to him before, you’ve worked damn near your whole life. Your mom always instilled such a good work ethic in you, and being a single mom only doubled that. And, it’s not even that you dislike working. Hardly. You love it. You worked so hard to get to where you are, so to not be able to do it is a bit of a difficult thought for you.

But, you also know there’s that small—maybe bigger—part of you that also is uncomfortable with letting go of just as he said. That provider role. Moving to Florida so you all could be a family was one thing. Necessary, even. Him buying you all such a big, beautiful home was another. Also, necessary in a lot of ways. There was no way ya’ll could stay in his old place. Not will all these kids. But, truly stepping back and letting him be the head of not just the table but the household is a new experience for you.

One that might be more of an adjustment than you were anticipating.

“I know,” is the only response you can give him right now. This will clearly be a continued but important conversation throughout the beginning of your marriage. “I just—“

“You’re stubborn as hell?”

You snort. “Like you aren’t?”

He shrugs. “I own up to it though.”

“And I don’t?”

He makes a sound, indicating disagreement, prompting you to shove him on his arm. His gaze softens. “I’m serious, Y/N.”

You swallow. “I know, and I appreciate it.” You do. More than he could probably ever realize. “And, I’m—I will try.”

He leans over, kissing your temple. “That’s all I’m asking for.”

And, it’s the least you can give him in return.

The two of you sit in silence, interlocked hands still resting atop your belly where your babies move around, as if in excitement and preparation for this big day. Like they’ve been waiting just as much and as long as their parents.

“Yes,” you finally answer his initial question. Joe looks over at you. “I still wanna do this.” Reaching with your free hand to stroke his beard, your crude nature kicks in a bit. “Your dick is way too big and good for me to back out now.”

He laughs, shaking his head. “That’s it? That’s the only reason?”

“What other reason is there?” He cuts his eyes, feigning irritation and starting to look away only for you to lightly tug on his beard. Your mouth dips into a small frown, your voice softening. “I love you, Joe. Here. Now. Then. Forever. My answer is always the same….yes.”

Because of this being a wedding for legal purposes only, and though allowed, you two decided to not do vows this round. You want that reserved for the real wedding, so the words expressed to him stem from the deepest part of your heart and soul, unofficial vows that carry with them an unbreakable promise and oath.

Nothing will ever separate you from this man.

"What God has joined together, let not man separate."

—————

Having the last name A’noai. The same last name as your daughter and now husband is something that doesn’t register right away. Not even as the judge announces you husband and wife, Joe sweeping you into his arms, planting the most sensual, heartfelt, loving kiss that the two of you have ever shared. Not as Callie rushes forward, planting herself between the two of you, jumping and leaping for joy, shouting, “we’re a family!”

Not even that night as you and your husband made love for the first time as a married couple. Not boyfriend and girlfriend. Not man and his mistress. Husband and wife. Not even as he held you afterwards, hand remaining on your belly, deep voice in your ear speaking sweet nothings and words of love and affirmation.

No, it still feels like something….impossible. And perhaps that’s because for so long it was. For so long, you never allowed yourself to feel and believe that this could ever happen. That Joe could really be yours. You refused to think about it, because that meant you would have to think about the why. Would have to acknowledge that for years you laid up with a man who had a whole ass wife.

And again, learning the truth behind Joe’s “relationship” and marriage with Jadah cleared up so much. It wasn’t the traditional, ‘ain’t shit man’ cheats on his loving wife who holds down the fort back home while he grinds to provide and make his dreams happen. Hardly. They were married in name only from the beginning. Had love for each other but were never in love with each other. In fact, being apart, separated, and divorced is the best thing that’s ever happened to both of them. What they needed to happen.

Hell, Jadah even thanked you while acknowledging she wished that you’d have told Joe from the beginning about Callie so that they could have divorced sooner.

Even more, the whole Mariah situation is starting to feel more and more like a thing of the past as Joe’s legal team continues with proceedings towards her, the gag and restraining order issued keeping her nice and quiet as you’re sure she drowns in debt trying to “fight” all the lawsuits she got slapped with.

It all worked out, so why can’t you acknowledge it?

Be okay with it?

Why does something still feel….off?

“Look, mommy!”

Callie’s excited voice pulls you from your overthinking, the photo of Joe on her shirt making you smile. Baby girl loves repping her daddy’s merch.

“What’s up Callie Bear?” You ask, one hand to your back that’s been killing you the past few days. You’d thought carrying Callie around during the middle and near the end of your pregnancy was a bit difficult at times, but three babies at once is a whole different ballpark.

She runs towards you, taking your hand, starting to pull you near the steps. “Daddy says I can have the big room!”

At that, your interest piques. “Really?”

Callie starts guiding you, keeping a hold of your hand as the two of you take the carpeted steps one by one. Her other little hand remains holding the banister for balance, similar to yourself. The whole while your mind stays on one thing and one thing only.

You know damn well this nigga did not give this little girl the master bedroom.

Except, you’re good and wrong, because Callie so happily walks you two into exactly just that.

The master bedroom.

As if sensing the many thoughts you have about and towards him, Joe walks in, arms crossed, gaze taking in the large, much too large for a going on five year old little girl.

And judging by the look on his face, he knows it, too.

“It’s so big!” Callie spins around in a circle, giggling as she falls to the floor. You take that moment of her being consumed in bliss to wobble over to her big head ass daddy.

“Her room?”

He reaches behind his head, scratching the back of his neck. “Baby—“

“Joe, she’s a little girl. Why does she need the master bedroom?”

And this man really has the audacity to answer so casually, “cause she asked for it.”

You shut your eyes. Impossible. This man is impossible.

“Do you even know how to say no to her?” You whisper, even though it’s not necessarily required as Callie has darted out the room, probably down the stairs to grab her tablet out of her backpack.

He rolls his eyes. “Of course, I do.”

“Really? I can’t tell with the way you and I are gon' be sleeping on twin size mattress and she living it up in the California King.”

Joe rolls his eyes, muttering, “stop being dramatic.”

You don't skip a beat with your retort. “Stop letting her walk all over you.”

He takes a minute to look at you, a hint of irritation crossing his handsome face. “I don’t let her walk all over me.”

“Then why is our barely five year old daughter getting the master bedroom in this house, Joe? Cause she asked for it? She keeps asking for that damn puppy, too, and you don’t see me looking up breeders.” He opens his mouth, and you lift your finger to silence him. “Leati, I swear to black Jesus if you mention one more thing about the benefits of her having a pet—“

“—it’ll teach her responsibility.”

“You really don’t believe me when I say it’s either me or that dog, huh?” You cross your arms, shaking your head. “Okay, when I go to the store to get some milk and don’t come back, leaving you with a spoiled little girl, three fussy babies, and a damn puppy that’s pissing and shitting all over the house, don’t call me up.”

He rolls his eyes once more, walking over and grabbing you by the hips, turning you so that you’re directly facing him. “I’m sorry, alright?” You look away, maintaining your pout, even as he moves his finger under your chin, forcing you to look at him. “She was just so excited when she saw it, and I just—“

You sigh. “I know.” You really do. All in all, Joe has done such a beautiful job stepping into the father role. The fact that he bonded with Callie almost instantly and seeing that bond continue to grow truly warms your heart. You just wish he would work on finding a little better of a balance between being the “cool” dad and still being a disciplinarian. But, it hasn’t even been a year yet, and truth be told, if you need to play that role a little longer while he continues to learn, you’re okay with that.

After all, it’s on you that he wasn’t able to be in Callie’s life from the very beginning.

Being patient is the least you can do.

“It’s fine.” His eyes widen slightly, conveying his surprise at your sooner than expected surrender. “Not like this is our house anyway.”

No, the house you stand in is not the home your husband purchased for your existing and growing family. It’s a house currently being rented for him by the studio of the film Joe will start filming sooner rather than later. The room Callie picked out as “hers” the one she will sleep in when you bring her to come visit him when he has to stay in town for a few days to film.

And, if you know your newfound daddy’s little girl of a daughter like you know you do, she’ll manage to finesse her way into your and Joe’s bedroom anyway.

He pulls you closer, stealing a kiss, murmuring against your full lips, “thank you.”

“Mmmhmm.” Your fingers grasp at his shirt, eyes lowering, eyelashes batted. “You’ll be making it up to me later tonight, anyway.”

His hands shift to your ass. “Is that so?”

“Sure is, motherfucker,” you sass, hand dropping to palm his dick through his shorts. A small smile on your face appearing at seeing his jaw clench. “You good, daddy?”

His glare makes your smile widen. “You’re an evil lil’ something, you know that?”

The most innocent expression as you lift your hand from his crotch to motion to yourself. “Me?” Shaking your head, you start to pull away. “Never.”

Trying to walk away proves futile as he grabs you, pulling your back against his chest. His forearms cross over the top of your breast, your hands resting on them. His heavy sigh sounds in your ear, as you crane your head back against his chest. He just holds you like that for a good minute.

“I love you.”

You must have the biggest smile known to man. Your three favorite words in the whole wide world from 1/2 of your two favorite people in said world.

Life has never felt so good.

“I love you, t—“

“Mommy! Daddy!”

Of course.

You can only shake your head as Callie’s voice travels from down the steps. That little girl is—

“Hello?”

The smile is gone.

That is most definitely not Callie.

Joe is already ahead of you, the two of you out the room, only to stop at the top of the stairway.

It takes a second, the shock of seeing someone other than your daughter who sits on the very bottom step, tablet in hand, looking up bored and irritated, settling when remembrance gradually sets in.

Primarily when she smiles.

It’s the same smile that greeted you that day you met during the Zoom meeting Joe had a few weeks ago.

“Megan.” Joe says her name with a combination of surprise and something else. Something akin to irritation.

Megan.

The rep from the casting company.

Naturally, Joe starts to move down the steps, you right behind him, one hand on the banister, mind elsewhere.

You could have sworn Joe locked the door when you guys arrived about an hour ago, and you know Callie would never open the door without asking for permission. Especially in an unknown place.

So, how the hell did Megan get in?

Close enough for formal introductions, Calista moving to stand close and near to Joe’s legs, Megan’s smile widens as she offers her hand. “Pleasure to finally meet you in person, Mr. Anoa’i.”

Joe accepts her handshake, correcting. “Please. Call me Joe.”

“Joe, it is,” she giggles, right as he turns to look at and reach for you. You accept his hand, Calista shifting once more so that she’s standing between the two of you. “I’m sure you remember my w—Y/N.” He catches himself, clearly about to introduce you as his wife, which wouldn’t be wrong, but the fact remains that currently only you, him, Callie, his mom, and your mom know that you two are now legally married. And for right now, you’d like to keep it that way.

Megan shifts her focus to you, smile remaining, “of course.” She extends her hand once more. “Nice to meet you as well.”

“Same.” You accept her kind gesture, taking a second to look her over. A young girl, probably in her late twenties, early thirties. Bright blue eyes. Soft features. Thin, narrow nose matching even thinner lips. She wears a simple, red bodycon dress with 3/4 sleeves that stops just below the knee. A tan Marc Jacobs tote bag over her shoulder. Pretty, according to modern day beauty standards. Alexis voice in the back of your head, saying something along the lines of “watch that lil’ white girl” has you holding back an amused smile.

That’s always been her thing though. Not yours.

You’ve never been the type to be pressed or bothered about other women around your man. Even with Joe. Not really. Insecurity within your relationship, within your marriage, is non-existent, and the trust abundant. You trust Joe with with your life. Know that that is something you never have to worry about.

Not only have you both been through too much to get to where you are now for him to ever risk it, but the fact remains that Joe wouldn’t look at this little girl even if she was the last woman on earth.

Outside of her….complexion being too light, contrary to what many might think given how insanely fit he is, Joe likes thick women. Loves a good ass to grab at and smack while he’s fucking from behind, big ass titties to suck on while you ride his dick like your life depends on it. Yeah, Megan’s dress is molded to her body, highlighting a nice set of breast, but they’re attached to such a slim frame. And, once again, you know Joe. His likes. Dislikes. Preferences. All of the above.

The man wants something he can grab, and he’s been grabbing at you for too long to even think about anyone else.

Even big and pregnant as you are, not even 24hrs ago, he had you on all fours, big hands spreading your ass cheeks, finger probing your asshole as he ate your pussy from behind, all while recording, adding to your growing collection for when pregnancy doesn’t allow for any sex. Something to hold you both over.

That’s the other thing….you two are freaks. Kinky as fuck, not many being able to match just how high and erotic your sex drives can be.

Joe knows where it’s at.

Always has.

Always will.

“And, this is the fabulous Ms. Calista, right?” Megan asks, leaning over to be more face to face with Callie.

Callie, however, isn’t having it. She hugs your legs, only nodding as a response.

That does make you frown a bit, but it’s not necessarily concerning. Callie, despite how she’s been the definition of a social butterfly with Joe’s family, can be initially shy when she meets people.

Granted, she technically already met Megan over the computer, but it’s a bit different. Online versus In-Person, so that’s probably it.

Almost awkwardly clearing her throat from your daughter’s cold greeting, she tucks a string of greasy blonde hair behind her ear. “Is the house okay for you all?”

Joe looks at you for an answer. Makes sense. This man was literally sleeping in sleeping bags on the road at one point. He’s good with whatever. It’s really if it works for you that he cares about.

“It’s perfect,” you answer. Your focus shifts down to Callie as you gently stroke her curls. “This one especially likes it, don’t you, sis?”

Callie’s big smile returns as she nods happily and rapidly. It makes Joe chuckle as he gives his final answer.

“It’s good.”

Megan nods, giving a thumbs up. “Awesome sauce.” She then turns, pulling out a folder from her purse. “I came to make sure the house is up to your standards, but I also have some paperwork from the studio regarding scheduling, your contract, and things of that nature if you’re available?” She then shakes her head. “But, you’re also with your family, so I can come back—“

“No,” you speak up, earning glances from both him and his twin. “It’s fine. I’m sure this one and I can find something to do while daddy works.”

A wink to Callie earns a scowl, as she doesn’t hesitate to express her dislike of this new plan. “Work sucks.”

“Watch your mouth, sis.” You warn, earning a sheepish look from her and Joe reaching to gently cup her face as she takes the opportunity to hug his legs. Naturally, he leans down to pick her up, Callie wrapping her arms around him as he kisses her cheek.

Megan makes a face, her hand over her chest. “Oh em gee. Your family is so cute.”

The compliment is kind enough to make you ignore the cringe of hearing her talk like that. Joe places Callie back down as she takes a step or two higher.

“Thank you.” You smile, reaching for Callie’s hand. She doesn’t know it yet, but a nap is calling her name. Yours, too. You’ve been on your feet today way too much. “It was nice meeting you, Megan. Well, in person.”

“You too.” The reply is directed to you, but her focus is on Joe. Again, understandable.

“I won’t take long,” he assures, gaze set on you and your daughter.

“I know.” Leaning over just enough, you steal a kiss, uncaring if Megan is standing right there. She don’t stop nothing when it comes to you and your man. “We’ll be waiting for you.”

[higharollakockamamie]

I was lucky enough to get to see the Takarazuka Castlevania show and it rules!

I’m remembering some stuff out of order, and this is my first Takarazuka, so I may state the obvious if you’re more familiar with it. Details for anybody who might be interested in what if Symphony of the Night was a musical acted entirely by women, colored with my vague recollections of playing a couple of the games like 20 years ago:

It does indeed start with the famous “Die, monster! You don’t belong in this world!” intro, except with no wine glass toss, and Maria is there.

For the fight scenes, screens come down and play CGI magic effects.

Maria generally gets a lot more to do than appear for 14 seconds like she does in the game.

When somebody dies, they sink down through a trapdoor. The stage in general is super cool, with a ton of different backdrops, a huge revolving table, and nice use of the whole thing from front to back.

There are backup dancers all in black with capes they swoosh around so they look like bats and I love them so much.

French Revolution time! We’ve got dancing revolutionaries and Robespierre, who I was absolutely not expecting in this play about Dracula. Shaft the wizard is there.

We get a flashback of Dracula going on his business trip. While he’s gone, Lisa tells Alucard that in her research she’s found a cure for vampirism that she’ll give Vlad as soon as he comes back. But then, she gets burnt as she calls out to Alucard that her last wish is for him not to hate humans and for him to keep Dracula from taking revenge. We see little!Alucard here, and he uses chichiue and hahaue to his parents.

Robespierre gets betrayed by Shaft and the revolutionaries turn on him, killing him, which Shaft uses to revive Dracula. If anybody ever asks you about Robespierre’s downfall, tell them it was for wizard reasons.

Annette gets kidnapped as bait to bring Richter to the castle. Richter gets a song to the tune of Bloody Tears, which rules. Then he gets brainwashed by Shaft.

Present Alucard travels through a village where they’re having a festival and singing a catchy song about how this once a year, on the night of the full moon, lost loved ones come back to visit. Alucard meets Maria here, who remembers that he saved her from vampires years ago when she was little. She remembers she asked him his name and he said, “One such as me has no name,” which she thought was badass. They go their separate ways.

I forget if it’s around here, but at some point they learn about Dracula being back, and Maria says that if Alucard won’t come with her, she’ll go to the castle alone.

Alucard finds a little girl in the woods, who says her papa was taken by the Revolution. He takes her to some nuns and an abbot, where he runs into Maria again. Some monsters, who are dancers in cool layered flowing red, attack. Maria and Alucard fight them off, but the abbot is freaked out, declares anybody who can fight those monsters must not be human, and throws them out.

Alucard and Maria get attacked by a lackey vampire, who they defeat, but not before he bites Maria and vampirizes her.

Alucard takes her back to his sweet bachelor pad, which has a drawing of Lisa on the wall. When Maria wakes up they talk about Lisa, and Alucard remembers the vampirism cure that must be somewhere in her laboratory.

They fly there, as shown on the screens. Maria falls once and Alucard catches her romantically.

The laboratory music is Dance of Gold, which is cool. They find Lisa’s journal, but not the cure. They conclude Dracula must keep it close.

Maria’s vampirism takes over and she does a kickass evil laugh before attacking Alucard with her four beasts, which are represented through the screens at first, then by dancers in white. Alucard fights them off and she returns to normal. She gives him the holy glasses, which are opera glasses he gazes at the audience through until she tells him that just having them works.

Alucard runs into a robed and hooded figure who shows him the world of the dead, which has angelic dancing figures with candles. Robespierre is there and gets a speech about how he was trying to save France. Hi Robespierre.

Then we see Lisa at the stake, but she urges Alucard to kill all the humans. Yep, the figure was the succubus. He sees through it and fights her.

There’s a fight with Richter, where the mind control is represented as a green orb floating on the screens. Richter gets Alucard on his knees and wraps his whip around his neck, which, hot. Alucard breaks free and destroys the mind control orb, bringing Richter to his senses.

Alucard confronts Dracula and they fight, Alucard insisting that Lisa wouldn’t want him to wreak revenge on humanity. Alucard wins, but can’t bring himself to kill his father, and throws his sword away. Shaft takes the opportunity to attack Alucard, and Dracula defends his son and kills the wizard. Dracula gives Alucard the vampirism cure.

Then Dracula asks Alucard to finish him off and send him to be with Lisa, which he does, in a scene that was sad but also charming because of Dracula dying very carefully so that he’d land on the trapdoor.

Maria gets unvampired.

There’s the scene from the end of Symphony of the Night where all the good guys part, except with the addition of Alucard telling Richter to go to Paris to rescue that little girl’s father, so I guess Richter gets a stint as the Scarlet Pimpernel. Alucard goes off and Maria runs after him.

But then we get one more scene! Maria finds Alucard at a grave he’s made for Dracula, where she prays. We see Dracula and Lisa looking on. Then there’s a romantic bit where Alucard wraps his cape around Maria, which is sweet, and they go off together.

All in all it was great, the music was great, the costumes were great, I loved it. I wish I could see it again immediately. I’m definitely gonna see more Takarazuka if I get the chance.

[soft4changbin]

Subtle sparks

Hongjoong x shy!reader

Summary: Hongjoong stays late at the studio to talk to a shy girl, trying to break through her quiet nature with gentle teasing and charm.

Word count: 602

The dance studio was quiet for once.

Only the soft hum of the speakers and the occasional squeak of Hongjoong’s sneakers broke the silence. Most of the others had gone for a late dinner, but Hongjoong stayed behind—said he wanted to work on a few ideas. In truth, he had a different reason.

You were seated against the wall, knees pulled to your chest, scrolling absentmindedly through your phone. One of the backup staff for ATEEZ, you mostly stayed behind the scenes—timid but reliable. Hongjoong had noticed you for a while now, always quiet, always kind, always slipping away before anyone could pull you into a conversation.

And he wasn’t usually shy, not like this. But something about the way you tucked your hair behind your ear, or offered a small, polite smile when spoken to, made him hesitate. He didn’t want to scare you off.

So tonight, he made sure you’d both be here. Alone.

“Hey,” he said, jogging over and dropping beside you, cross-legged. “You’re still here?”

You blinked, startled, then gave a tiny nod. “Yeah. Just waiting for the others to finish so we can walk back.”

“You didn’t want to grab food with them?”

“I wasn’t really hungry.” You looked down. “And… crowded places kind of stress me out.”

Hongjoong tilted his head. “Fair. I like quiet sometimes, too.”

You nodded again, and silence settled over the room. He tapped his fingers on his knees, trying to act casual. “You know, I’ve been working on a song.”

“Oh?” You looked up slightly, curiosity peeking out.

“Yeah. It’s kind of… soft. Different vibe.” He glanced at you, smiling. “I think you’d like it.”

“I’d like to hear it sometime.”

“Only if you promise not to laugh at my singing,” he teased.

You cracked a smile, eyes shy but sincere. “I don’t think I could ever laugh at you.”

God, he was so screwed.

“Okay,” he said, heart thudding. “Be honest. Have you ever been on a date with someone who writes music about you?”

Your brows furrowed slightly. “Me?”

He laughed softly. “Hypothetically. But yeah, maybe you.”

Your cheeks flushed, and you looked away. “No. I haven’t.”

“Well,” he said, shifting closer just enough for you to notice. “I’m trying to decide if I should ask this girl I know. She’s quiet, super sweet, probably smarter than me. Always kind. Kind of hard to read, though.”

You glanced at him through your lashes, lips parting slightly. “Maybe she’s just nervous.”

“Maybe,” he said softly. “Do you think she’d say yes if I asked her out?”

Your breath caught. “I… I think she might.”

He leaned in, voice warm now, but still gentle. “Would you say yes?”

Your eyes met his, wide and uncertain. But you nodded. Barely.

“I’d say yes.”

Hongjoong grinned, relief and something brighter flooding his chest. “Cool. No pressure. We’ll keep it simple. Just you and me. Somewhere quiet. I promise not to bring the guys or perform any dramatic love songs.”

You giggled, a small sound that made him feel like the sun had just peeked through.

“Okay,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper. “I’d like that.”

He stood up and held out his hand. “Come on, then. I’ll walk you back.”

You took it.

And for the first time that night, he saw you smile with no hesitation.

[vasito-de-leche]

;KPOP DEMON HUNTERS - Saja Boys Headcanons

Compilation of headcanons and analysis of the Saja Boys and other related things.

breaking my r99 streak with the new worms forming in my brain <3 my knowledge on korean mythology isn't a lot since I mostly just watch kdramas so I'll just be talking about what we got to see in the movie!

On the subject of Grim Reapers and boybands.

First of all, the Saja Boys are all presented as grim reapers (jeoseung saja), relating to their role in the movie as those who guide the fans' souls to the underworld, even if done maliciously rather than impartially as typical grim reapers do. They're demons, after all.

Here, grim reapers also retain a more humanoid appearance when compared to the rest of demons underground; aside from the Saja Boys, there are a few others spread out in the crowd. Just by looking at them, we can understand they all share the same color palette (purple tinted skin, yellow eyes) but not all of them are expected to have sharp teeth and/or protruding tusks--which explains how Mystery had extremely long tusks but Jinu only had somewhat sharp canines before their idol disguises.

The thing that stands out to me is the fact that the other four Saja Boys are shown to be sluggish and zombie-like at different points of the story, unlike Jinu and the other grim reapers in the crowd. At the top of my head, this happens twice--when they return to the underworld after their debut and right after the signing event is over, when we see them immediately slouch tiredly after throwing away the bouquets.

Initially, I toyed with the possibility that the other four Saja Boys might be something else--something lower than the generic imps and lackey demons and that they might lack individuality, existing sort of like puppets, or that perhaps they completely lost their humanity and control over themselves along the way in their life as demons. But with the amount of personality they show in their very few scenes, I like to headcanon that only Jinu is cut out for the life of an idol, and the other four are so fucking exhausted after every song, every cutesy stunt, every second of their act that they just look downright fucked up afterwards.

Which makes sense to me given the similarities between Rumi and Jinu; both being extremely driven and stubborn in their ways, pushing for their goals no matter what. On one hand, Rumi sacrifices her own health and friendships for what she believes to be the greater good, and Jinu sacrifices everyone else for what he wants. It's difficult for Mira and Zoey to keep up with their friend (think of the couch scene, when Rumi accelerates the release of their new song) and it might be difficult for the other four Saja Boys to keep up with Jinu as well.

To add to this, I also like to headcanon that Mystery and Baby are the ones who dislike being idols the most, while Romance and Abby are more tolerant of it.

Mystery straight up barks at the fans, I imagine the role of mysterious and aloof member is perfect for him because of how little he actually wants to interact with fans and play along with Jinu's boyband. I can't see him genuinely enjoying singing nor dancing either. Baby strikes me as someone who enjoys the playful aspect of the idol life--the games, the variety shows, the luxury that comes with the lifestyle--but despises the responsibilities that come with it. The meet and greets, the signings, to constantly put on a cute act in front of the camera and audience for the sake of appearances. On one hand, it's fun to have an excuse to get away with shenanigans by virtue of being the cute maknae of the group, on the other hand it's also a pain in the ass to have to stick to that.

When it comes to Romance and Abby, they do seem to have more fun with the social aspects of their idol life, especially when they get to terrorize Mira together.

Stirring up shipping drama and whatnot is definitely something we can expect out of a guy assigned as The Romantic One, but it's the fact that Abby joins in as well that makes me think it might be more than their planned out personas and schemes to mess with Huntrix--these two guys actively enjoy the attention and seeing the reactions they get from others. Abby specifically looks like he enjoys the dancing and the intricate choreographies. I can see him being the lead dancer! On the other hand, Romance could be the visuals.

On the subject of demon patterns

We know that the designs can vary just by looking at all the demons, including Rumi, not just the Saja Boys. A fun detail is that Jinu's second outfit during the spice game involves his own demon patterns!

But then we also get another recolor of these same outfits right before the final showdown, now with more demon patterns on the boys!

I like to headcanon that those are pretty much the patterns each Saja Boy has along their body. In Romance's case, his shirt lacks any distinct patterns, but we know he has just as many as the rest from the introduction they give to Gwi-ma, so I'll chalk it down to an aesthetic choice.

I also have some other headcanons about the patterns in general and how they differ from demons born in the underworld versus humans turned demons!

For demons born in the underworld, these patterns are actually scars--this is the process of their wounds healing and do not glow at all, they can also become less noticeable over the years like regular human scars. Perhaps the texture and sensitiveness is different due to how demons are much tougher physically, but it's pretty easy to understand as a concept.

For humans turned demons, these scars are a manifestation of their shame and Gwi-ma's control over them, they appear over time as the human continues to hear his voice or accept his gifts, make deals with him and so on and so forth. Because they're the embodiment of negative feelings or closely tied with them, I imagine these patterns can feel unpleasant--from pulsating faintly with all the bad vibes you've accumulated over the years to straight up burning your skin if your negative emotions spiral out of control.

We also see that patterns spreading might cause some changes in a person, since Rumi loses her ability to sing as the patterns begin to spread to her neck.

I think this is more of a consequence of one's negative thoughts and feelings than simply related to having patterns in itself--Rumi's perception of herself and her patterns was inherently rooted in self-hatred due to the way she was raised, so it makes sense to me that she would lose her voice right after seeing the golden Honmoon, something she wholeheartedly wanted to believe was the fix-it-all solution to her own existence. In her conversation with Celine after she begins her partial transformation, the things Rumi says aren't a sudden realization but shame and insecurities left to fester for years. She was basically a ticking bomb waiting to explode.

We also know that Gwi-ma let Jinu keep his voice, but it's heavily implied that his singing voice was the result of their deal--his soul for musical talent--so it has nothing to do with his patterns.

In Rumi's case, singing was a vehicle for her job--her voice allows her to make the Honmoon glow golden, and thus make everything alright--which is a vast contrast to how she uses her voice at the very end to not only accept herself and reach out to her best friends, but to create a better Honmoon that doesn't revolve around hiding one's flaws. Even with her patterns, she can still sing properly here. Of course, she's half-demon so there may be some things that only apply to her and whatnot but either way, that's for a different post entirely.

Since these patterns are related to bad feelings, I imagine a good way to counter the physical pain they bring would be good feelings, so you have to picture yourself tracing your Saja Boys bias' patterns to calm him down, you have to do it.

On the subject of the Saja Boys and their dynamics with each other.

Given Jinu is around 400 years old, and he's the one who knows how to maneuver his way around Gwi-ma, I assume he's the oldest one in the group. We don't get to see them interact a lot with each other, at least not in ways that we can fully discern as genuine, but I love overthinking so here we are.

Based only on their usual formation (Mystery, Romance, Jinu as the center, Abby, Baby) and respective roles in the band, I imagine that Romance and Abby could be the next two oldest, followed by Mystery and Baby. It would be fun if Romance was the second oldest, followed by Abby, then Mystery and finally Baby as the classic maknae with the deepest voice.

Of course, given they're demons fully covered in patterns, the actual age difference between them could range from a few decades to a few hundred years. I like the idea that Jinu specifically sought them out over his stay in the underworld for his plan, but eventually the five of them became close with each other. There is also zero indications of this, but another headcanon I like is that the other four members were also attempting to get something out of this plan, similar to how Jinu wanted to erase his memories, something to lessen the pain of existing as demons for all eternity.

As for their dynamics with each other, Abby and Baby also seem the most casually friendly, often seen leaning on other members. I've been rewatching this movie passively since it came out, and the amount of times Abby just fucking holds onto Jinu's shoulders is enough to make me raise an eyebrow. You go, clingy bisexual king. When they escape the stage after the game show, Abby is also the one giving Baby a piggyback ride.

They also clearly go in pairs (Mystery-Baby and Romance-Abby) so I like to interpret this as these specific pairs being closer with each other.

Fans perceive Baby and Mystery as the cute but secretly chaotic duo, but these two strike me as catty, petty bitches who love to talk shit or be judgemental together. They've mastered the art of putting people down with a single twitch of the mouth, the subtlest but most cutthroat expressions ever. I like to think they're the type of duo that doesn't even need to talk to understand each other with how similar or attuned they are to each other.

They also heavily contrast Romance and Abby, who are more way more chatty and bicker constantly--sometimes for fun, as a playful thing, but most of the times because their personalities mean they butt heads over small things for no reason. Most fans think they don't get along, but it's just the opposite; the bickering means they're comfortable and close enough with each other!

As for other pairs, I think Baby and Abby have a similar vibe that makes everything extremely fun when they're the center of attention--they play off each other very well, with Baby instigating shenanigans and Abby fueling him. Mystery and Romance do get along very well behind the scenes, especially when they need to unwind from Baby and Abby's antics and high energy.

When it comes to Jinu, he's often paired up with Abby simply for aesthetic purposes--they just look good together. I like to think that some fans perceive Abby as the "second in command," but in truth, that role falls on Romance. If you need to ask for something outlandish, you have to ask Jinu for permission and if he's too busy to care, he'll redirect you to Romance, but if he's ALSO too busy then you'll get immediately redirected to Abby and he'll most likely say yes if it sounds fun enough. This is how Baby used to get away with so much shit, until Romance caught on and started to keep a closer eye on him. Just in case.

I also think a lot about how possible centuries as a demon might do to someone's psyche--since Jinu mentions how demons feel negativity but amplified to horrible degrees, I imagine all of Saja Boys perceive the group as a means to an end as a result of this, even if they've clearly become comfortable with each other as found family or what have you. You can ship them for all I care, the movie gets very funny when it becomes two rival polycules.

On the subject of animal companions.

We know that Jinu has his lion and bird (apparently the lion's name is "Derpy" and it was revealed in the official roblox game for the movie?) because he's the world's specialest demon princess, but I like to think that the other boys also get their own animal companions.

To follow with the Saja Boys (Lion boys, in this case) theme then I can see them all having different felines, big or small.

Romance with a serval, one that has a few spots shaped like hearts instead. Abby with a jaguar he insists looks NOTHING like him but it literally has the exact same eyebrows. Mystery with a snow leopard, one so fluffy its fur covers his eyes just like him. Baby with an ocelot that can somehow make the exact same shit-eating smug grins he does.

Ironically, for a group whose logo is a lion, not a single one of them has a lion as a companion pet--it's considered rude to bring this up in their fandom, because their lore explained this in some obscure concert and if you're pointing it out, then you're clearly not up to date with the Saja Boys lore document being passed on through twitter DMs like a family heirloom, shaking my head.

I do imagine these animals are helpers for their actual grim reaper duties, messengers just like them! But some are a bit more rebellious than others and might not even listen to their respective master the way Jinu's tiger does.

Round of headcanons I couldn't fit anywhere else.

The other Saja Boys don't have "real" names either because their identities were lost in their respective deals with Gwi-ma OR because they're willingly concealing their former human identities out of shame. I still haven't decided which ones I want to fit in which category, hmm ...

Jinu is the only one who clung really hard to his name, initially because of his strong sense of self and selfishness; I imagine he was rather pragmatic even after joining Gwi-ma in the underworld and might've tried to find any way out to gain his soul back, if his conversations with Rumi are anything to go by, only to have the centuries wear him down and instead find a way out by playing by Gwi-ma's rules instead.

Sometimes, humans turned demons don't even need to hear Gwi-ma's voice to have their patterns flare up and relive their worst feelings, it can just happen. When it does, the Saja Boys try to redirect those negative feelings one of them might be going through towards themselves--it's easier to snap out of it if you're angry at someone who isn't yourself. They know each other well enough by now to know the exact thing to say to get each other's attention, even if it means saying some cruel and horrible things.

When it comes to who deals with these moments from worst to best, I'd say the list would be: Baby, Jinu, Romance, Abby, Mystery.

I also like the idea of them adapting easily to modern times, regardless of the era each comes from. Their interest in modern society varies, but because they've existed as demons for so long, the issues aren't "Oh, how do I use a phone?" but "How can I send a message without scratching my entire screen with these damn claws?" and so on!

[feral-cryptidz]

Everything cool i can recall from Cats at the Fulton :3

Before jellicle songs for jellicle cats:

-There were thunder sfx and lightning effects, and before the show started there was an announcement about "hazardous weather"

-After that, the show opened on Grizabella walking around through various set pieces and rubbing against them. There was a magician's box (No idea what it's actually called) that had Griz and Misto's names on it, which kind of implied that they used to have an act together

-Eventually, Griz opened a large trunk on stage and took out her dress, which she wore for the rest of the show

Jellicle songs for jellicle cats:

-Can't remember too much unfortunately, i was honestly still just trying it get myself to fully realize i was actually there lol

-During the chorus, in the part where the boot usually falls and the singing pauses, they instead had Mungojerrie go off and do his own solo while everyone stared at him disapprovingly until he stopped and they could finish singing, which i thought was really funny

The naming of cats:

-Super intense, just how it should be. Lottsss of eye contact

White cat dance+invitation to the jellicle ball:

-Not much specifically to say, but the actress who played Vic was fantastic. Sososo fascinating to watch from the perspective of someone who has never done ballet in their life lol

The old gumbie cat:

-INCREDIBLE. OHH MY GOD I LOVED THAT NUMBER SO MUCH

-One of the BEST Jenny costumes EVER imo

-They had her be a sort of ex-showgirl, and had a set of curtains come in to give her a different background for her tap number.

-Her song outfit was gold and super sparkly and soooo fun to watch while she danced

-Honestly i need to draw that jenny at some point i loved her so much

The rum tum tugger:

-Such a fun number to watch, and SUPER interactive with the crowd

-Tugger flirted a TON with the people in the front row

-During the chorus of his song, they had Mungojerrie in with all of the kittens, and he had another solo bit similar to the one he had in jellicle songs for jellicle cats. I literally can't remember anyone else who was in the kitten group lol

-They gave the "terrible bore" line to Tantomile and Coricopat, but whateverrrr man. they had a bigger role in this version anyway, so it made sense.

-Honestly the whole number was just super extra, juuusstt how it should be :]

Grizabella the glamour cat:

-Not much in specific I can remember, but the Demeter from this show has an AMAZING voice. Actually gasped when she started singing.

Bustopher jones:

-at the beginning and end of the number, Bustopher rode in and out on a little car. In the middle/end, he stood on the hood, and sang from there. I'm also pretty sure Bombalurina was on the roof of the car!

Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer:

-All of the lights shut off when the other characters ran offstage, and Jerrie+Teazer came in from the sides and shined flashlights through the audience while giggling

-Plenty of fun choreo in this number, they really managed to get the characters personalities to show!

Old deuteronomy:

-Uhhhh i don't know dude. i forget 😢

-tugger and munk sang from the platforms+back on the sides of the stage which was cool i guess?

-sorry i genuinely don't remember anything :(

The jellicle ball:

-I said it before, but the whole cast were such amazing dancers, it was sooo fun to watch!!

-Tugger and Bomba danced together most of the time, so tuggerlurina enjoyers do with that what you will :)

-some time around the beginning Tugger yelled "Party time!!"

Memory (Medly):

-not much to say

-The Griz from this version has an amazing voice dude. sooo pretty

The moments of happiness:

-GOD I REMEMBER NOTHING I'M SORRYYYY 💔

Gus the theatre cat+Pekes and Pollicles:

-Jellylorum was super sweet <3

-The pekes and pollicles bit was in place of Growltiger, and had Gus play the rumpus cat

-the flashback sequence was super funny, and kind of painted Gus as less of a respectable actor, and more of a super pretentious guy who considers himself a good actor

-He spent a bunch of time interacting with the audience, asking if they'd seen him as various roles in various plays which were all titled as some sort of cat pun version of famous plays/musicals

-Honestly though it was such a treat to watch, and a really fun interpretation of Gus that i never really considered before！

Skimbleshanks the railway cat:

-the guy who played Skimble actually wasn't there, so his understudy took over, and so instead of it being sung by skimble, it was sung by Alonso in overalls

-Honestly though it was kind of weird seeing that number being sung about a guy who was clearly NOT skimble

-Don't take that as me not liking it though!!! It was such a good number!!!

-During the song, Skimble jumped into Coricopat's arms, which Coricopat was very unhappy with lol. He ended up dropping skimble, who was completely unphased and just kept singing. what a joyful guy.

-Tugger was getting super into to the song when they were all laying on the floor :3

Macavity the mystery cat:

-he started by jumping out of a jack in the box!!!

-The moon in the background turned red, which was a nice detail

-Such a gorgeous Macavity?? he did not need to be that pretty /hj

-I actually cannot stress how much i liked that Macavity costume.

-The song itself was sung sooo nicely :)

-They had most of the girls on stage, not just Bomba and Demeter. I know there were 8 of them in total, and besides Bomba and Demeter i can remember Jenny and Jellylorum in specific, but i know there were more of them

-During the fight scene, Tugger tried to kidnap Bomba, not Demeter (I THINK, i'm not fully sure of this part)

Mr. Mistofelees:

-WOW

-Great conjuring turns, my moms couldn't stop talking about them lol

-during the chorus, after old deut is brought back, there were a bunch of balloons that the cast members tossed into the crowd, and were incouraging people to bat around.

-I had full cat makeup on at the time, and the woman playing Bombalurina smiled at me :)

Memory:

-Grizabella sang from on top of a jack in the box, the same one Mac came out of

-SO beautiful oh my god

-i stopped breathing during the chorus omfg it was so beautiful

-RAHHH I LOVE MEMORY RAHHGHHGHHHH

Journey to the heaviside layer:

-Old deut started by pointing to jenny and gus and asking the rest of the tribe which one they thought should be the jellicle choice. They all shook their heads for both of them, so he asked them who they thought it should be, and they all pointed to Grizabella, which was so cute <3

-They had Griz get into a roller coaster car and drive off. there was a projection of a roller coaster on the back wall, and when she eventually went off stage, an animation played of her car going along the coaster and eventually flying off towards the moon

-a little detail i noticed was that Macavity was actually watching this number from the very top of the back scaffolding :3

The addressing of cats:

-I. i literally can't remember anything from any of Deuteronomy's songs. what the flip.

-I think it was pretty good tho!

Extra bits that i didn't know where to put:

-GOD i loved the Tantomile and Coricopat from this production. So gorgeous. So so so gorgeous. oh my god i loved the,

-I loved the use of the scaffolding in the back, as well as the platforms on the sides. having people up there during the parts where the whole tribe is together really did a lot for the overall affect

Okay, that's it!! sorry if this had the most booty ass grammar ever, i am NOT editing all of that lol. This was literally the highlight of my whole year, i was shaking from excitement the whole time <3

Such an amazing production, such and amazing cast, and such and amazing experience <3

[dioslesbianwife]

Hi hi, I'm new to the JJBA fandom and I'm super happy that I found this blog!! Your writing is amazing and I love when you write about La Squadra and people from part five!! Especially the whacky stuff...so it made me have an idea

A genderfluid partner who has a stand based around musicals, regardless of any type or specific nature that activates a hypnotic sequence for enemies to join in and depending on the lyrics, could die. (Like doing Bo Burnhams 'Welcome to the Internet and 'see a man beheaded' actually happens before them).

I think this could be a really fun writing concept and silliness for La Squadra or anyone else you'd like to add in!! I hope you have a fabulous rest of the month!! <3

hii, tysm!! that's a cool stand idea actually lol i love musicals, hope you enjoy and thank you for requesting ♡❤️

Risotto Nero

The moment you activate your Stand and an enemy suddenly bursts into a jazz-hands solo mid-ambush, he just silently stares.

Like, “What the fuck is happening. Why is this guy dancing. Is that confetti.”

You’re in the background like “🎶And all that Jazzzzz!🎶”

Risotto watches a man actually get beheaded right on cue and goes “...Not bad.”

He decides your Stand is horrifying. But effective.

He respects how cleanly it finishes the job. There’s no blood left behind. Just... tap shoes.

He doesn’t talk much, but when you hum near him, he glances up. A little nervous. “You’re not gonna… make me dance, right?”

You promise you’d never. 

He never says it, but he secretly likes your voice. Finds it oddly calming… even when you’re singing about dismemberment.

Prosciutto

He absolutely HATES how flamboyant your Stand is.

“What the hell is this, a circus? I’m trying to kill people, not host a cabaret- ”

Cue enemy twirling mid-tap routine, then falling into a manhole because of a well-timed lyric.

He stops talking.

Prosciutto: “...That’s horrifying.”

The moment someone dies mid-verse, he’s like “Okay. Fine. This is acceptable.”

Tries to act annoyed, but will occasionally tap his foot along.

Denies he enjoys it, even when he lowkey hums your songs in the car.

Gets very weirdly into it when you perform anything dramatic like Les Mis or Hadestown.

“Don’t sing about my death,” he says flatly.

You: “Too late.”

Pesci

Genuinely TERRIFIED of your Stand. Like it’s too good.

“Wait- so they just… join in?? Even if they don’t wanna??”

“Yup!”

“And then they die???”

You: nods while adjusting feather boa

He tries to keep his head down whenever you start humming.

Has accidentally been pulled into the chorus line ONCE. It haunts him to this day.

You sang Sweeney Todd lyrics once and he couldn’t sleep for three days.

But when he sees you kill an entire group of guards with Bo Burnham lyrics, he’s like “That’s the scariest person I’ve ever met. I love them.”

You call him your little stagehand and he MELTS.

Illuso

Absolutely not immune to the drama of it all.

Pretends to be annoyed. Secretly lives for it.

“Ugh, again with the singing- oh wait, are we doing Cell Block Tango?? Hold on let me warm up- ”

Will try to act cool until you pull off a Phantom of the Opera-style death.

Uses the mirror dimension to stage your performances. Like literally positions lights and sets for you.

You once killed someone mid-ballad and he was like “10/10. Death by bridge.”

Has definitely joined in voluntarily before.

“You better not make me sing.”

“I’d never do that, Illuso.”

Cue Illuso singing backup harmony five minutes later.

He’s kind of obsessed with you and terrified of what you can do.

Melone

Thinks your Stand is the most beautifully absurd thing he’s ever seen.

“It’s death by theater. What’s not to love?”

Keeps encouraging you to do more violent musical numbers.

“Do Sondheim again! One with intestines!”

Once tries to scientifically understand how your Stand compels people to dance.

“Is it pheromones? Psychic link? Music-based hypnosis?”

You: “It’s ✨the magic of the stage✨”

Melone: “Fucking incredible.”

Definitely tries to get his laptop baby to harmonize with you.

Will 100% fund your musical slaughter tour.

Formaggio

Thinks it’s the funniest shit he’s ever seen.

He watches a man break into full La La Land tap number before combusting and he’s like “OH MY GOD- ”

“You’re telling me the more dramatic the lyrics, the more likely they die?”

“Yup.”

“Can you kill someone with Mamma Mia?”

You: “Done it.”

He is your #1 hype man. Throws roses after every fatal number.

Has tried to be your co-star. You made him wear sequins. He’s never been happier.

“I don’t know what’s hotter, your voice or the fact you made a grown man sing before disintegrating.”

Ghiaccio

HATES it. Despises it.

“WHY IS THERE SINGING. WHY IS EVERYONE SINGING. THIS IS A COMBAT ZONE- ”

Explosions of glitter

“WHY IS THERE A FOG MACHINE???”

You once sang “Defying Gravity” and someone literally floated into the stratosphere and exploded. Ghiaccio was foaming at the mouth.

“It doesn’t even make sense!!!”

“Yet here we are <3”

Secretly impressed but will NEVER admit it.

Once screamed himself hoarse because he got trapped in the background vocals and couldn’t stop.

“Never. Again.”

(He sings in the shower now. Just a little. Just sometimes.)

Sorbet & Gelato

They are OBSESSED with you. Legitimate theatre kids gone feral.

You are their new deity.

“BABE you HAVE to do Chicago- ”

“Oh my GOD kill them with Spring Awakening lyrics- ”

They choreograph numbers with you. Pre-plan murders as overtures.

They once joined your Stand performance on purpose and scared the enemy into surrender.

They call you + themselves the "Murder Musical Throuple™" and you can’t stop them.

[yeslikethewizard]

【 A Cat Among Wolves - Ch. 18Update!】

LINK: Chapter 18 - in the hot seat FANDOM: The Scum Villain’s Self Saving System RATING: M, full tags and content warning on A03 PAIRINGS: Shen Yuan | Shen Qingqiu/Luo Binghe, One sided SQQ’s harem hopelessly in love with him

SUMMARY:

Shen Yuan never expected to be transmigrated—who DOES expect that sort of thing!? But here he is, in the world of Proud Immortal Demon Way as some NPC demon child who is at the complete mercy of the cultivation world around him. When he runs into Luo Binghe it is like fate itself plucked him up and set Shen Yuan into the world to be with the Protagonist. Keep him safe. Make sure that Luo Binghe won’t ever have to be alone in the world.

But staying at Luo Binghe’s side will be easier said than done, even if his mysterious heritage lands him in the good graces of the Scum Villain, Shen Yuan is still a demon. One living in the middle of a cultivation sect. Not to mention that something—something darker and stronger than Shen Yuan—seems to be messing with the plot, and not changing things for the better. Like Shen Yuan didn’t already have enough on his plate to deal with.

EXCERPT:

“For every incorrectly performed form you will run ten laps,” Xu Tung-Mei says, and that causes Gong Yang to groan in open dismay. She snaps her gaze to the boy and adds, “On top of the twelve you will already be running after your spars. Begin.”

Shen Yuan draws his practice blade in the same motion that he blocks the move that Ning Yingying springs on him after Xu Tung-Mei’s word. It immediately puts him in a defensive position. Ning Yingying in the books was described as childish and—frankly—not terribly impressive cultivation-wise. But she’s still older than Shen Yuan, and more experienced with her practice blade than Shen Yuan is himself.

He’s known her enough at this point to also know that underestimating her because of words on a page isn’t very smart. He lets himself be backed up across the field, carefully aware of the other fighters around them. Then, he knocks her blade up with a clang that makes his ears ring. She brings it down to block before he can get a proper jab in, but it allows him to switch up the dynamic of the spar.

Shen Yuan drops to his knees, rolling to avoid the sweep of Ning Yingying’s blade. He grabs a handful of grass as he does, and it’s only a sharp, “ Only sword-forms in this fight Disciple Shen!” that keeps him from sending a burst of qi into them to block her sight. Adapts fluidly, acting as if he wasn’t even going to do that in the first place as he darts from the tip of Ning Yingying’s sword and sweeps under her guard.

The flat of his blade strikes her in the side, but she dances away after the contact in a swirl of ribbons and skirts. Shen Yuan clumsily brings his sword up to block another jab from her, and winces when it makes the bones in his forearms ache with the hit. He has to change his grip to keep from dropping the blade, something that costs him precious time.

Ning Yingying’s blade crashsd into Shen Yuan’s lower back, the flat of it of course, but still hard enough to bruise. Shen Yuan lets the motion knock him forward, dropping into another roll and using his own blade to knock Ning Yingying from her feet. She trips with a yelp, going down hard enough to cause a sharp inhale from the other disciples around them. Shen Yuan isn’t about to show her any mercy though—hey this is just a spar! He isn’t killing her or anything!

Besides, the fight made his blood sing and the amulet on his neck seemed to burn hot against his skin. He found himself on his feet with the tip of his practice sword pointed at her throat. Shen Yuan feels a bead of sweat making its way down the side of his face and he grinned down at Ning Yingying with wild satisfaction. “Yield?”

“A-Yuan that was mean!” Ning Yingying responds, pushing the sword away to rub her shins. Shen Yuan huffs at her, crouching down and subsequently getting in range for a bop on top of his head. “That hurt!”

“You hurt me too!” Shen Yuan shot back, but as the excitement of the spar wore off he felt a spike of concern. Really, did he have to get that carried away!? Ning Yingying is going to be Luo Binghe’s first wife after all! Here he is, knocking her around like she’s just one of the boys! Shen Yuan winces and says, “Are you okay though?”

“Pff, as if you could actually hurt me that bad,” Ning Yingying says, batting his nervous hands away. She stands up after rubbing her shins for a second, and Shen Yuan does as well. Ming Fan and Gong Yang are still sparring, but it looks as though Luo Binghe and He Mengyao have been done for some time. Shen Yuan winces as Luo Binghe’s eyes meet his.

Aaah! Was the protagonist watching that entire time!? Maybe he should have let Ning Yingying win…

【 +50 Protagonist Satisfaction Points! 】

[show-stoppin-enby]

Thinking of dropping out of uni

[hooked-on-elvis]

'69 1174 Hillcrest 8MM Footage. All the fans footage here: youtube.com

[hotshitno2]

Not to focus on the wrong things of this chapter or anything but watching Aqua struggle to make it in the entertainment industry for 128 chapters just to watch his rating be worse than a lot of random side characters that just appeared in this chapter is so funny help 💀

[amber-angel]

I saw Wicked today with my roommates. I have Thoughts

[selfshippinglover]

What if the scrooge from the '22 movie was in the muppets christmas carol what would that be like

HIII GARF THANK YOU FOR ASKING ABOOUT SCRROOOGE <3333

~If he were to take the place of the Muppets universe Scrooge I the story beats would be much the same but it would be a more realistically tread case on Scrooge form the musical. cause uh, he deadass threatens to get people arrested for "loitering" is the reason multiple people are homeless for sure, blackmails people into paying more than they're supposed to on their bills, aaand tells his nephew that he wished he wasn't born essentially? Like, the shit he does to people is FUCKED in that movie. And since this isn't a silly animated cartoon world(aff) he would be getting way more shit for it I think. Also, god facing the consequences would feel worse cause they'd be portrayed more realistically? That being said, NOTHING is as chilling as watching random strangers in an alleyway joke about you dying while giving away your belongings for money after presumably stealing it from your house. NOTHING will ever beat that in my opinion and God that would fuck him up.

WATCH THIS SONG BTW:

[ohmydais]

audition tomorrow…

[swaggy-skeletons]

GUYS I GOT A CALLBACK IM SO HAPPY

I DIDNT THINK I WAS BECAUSE THE EMAIL WAS SUPPOSED TO GO OUT TODAY AND I WAS CHECKING ALL DAY AND I HADNT GOTTEN AND THEN AT LIKE 7:00 i was like "ok one more check" and i still hadn't gotten an email so i thought i didn't get one but then i checked one last time a few minutes ago and I GOT ONE!!!!

i'm genuinely overjoyed

i honestly think i have a good chance of getting the role because, not to toot my own horn, i think i had among the best cold reads of all the girls auditioning

like i projected, i spoke clearly, i didn't just speak in my voice or like i was reading a text out loud like i actually ACTED it and i made sure to incorporate body movement and facial expressions and all that jazz

also i was like the fifth person to read for Erma and i gave her a sort-of boston accent and no one before me gave her an accent but almost EVERYONE after me tried to. i have the upper hand on that one because i hear boston accents a lot from family

anyway i'm literally SO HAPPY

only time will tell if i get the role or not but honestly, even if i don't i'll be very happy to have gotten a callback.

i'll be in the ensemble whether i get the role or not so I'll be happy either way

i'm so excited for rehearsals to start ahhhhhh!

[scarefox]

(translation from live stream 28.03.2024)

[pasta-connoisseur]

Saw jcs lets goooo