#q8 jobs

[ehabest]

Eng. Ehab Elkady

PHP Dev | SR. Web Designer | GD

Business Card

Online CV: https://ehab.habyby.net

All Social Media: https://L.habyby.net/ehabest

Hi everyone, I'm Ehab Elkady, a web professional based in Kuwait. I bring a blend of skills in PHP development, senior web design, and graphic design to the table!

I'm currently open to exciting design & development projects. Feel free to connect with me!

#KuwaitJobs #KuwaitWebDeveloper #KuwaitWebDesign #KuwaitGraphicDesign #PHPDeveloper #WebDesign #SeniorWebDesigner #GraphicDesign #OpenToWork #WebProfessional #CreativeProfessional

#kuwait #q8 #kuwaitjobsoffers

#كويت #الكويت #وظائف_الكويت #شركات_تقنية_الكويت #مجال_التكنولوجيا_بالكويت #مطوري_الكويت #مطوري_ويب_الكويت #مصممي_ويب_الكويت #تصميم_الواجهات_الرسومية_الكويت #موقع_ويب_الكويت #فريلانسر_كويت #اعمال_حرّة_الكويت #مشاريع_حرّة_الكويت

[a-killer-obsession]

Q8 🦾

I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I initially misunderstood what should be done.

{ A few words about you as an author. YOU ARE FUCKING WONDERFUL. I've often thought about such a thing as a collab. The arts' collab is cool, and I've had experience with it, so it's already become kind of boring. And I came up with the idea, why not make a writers' collab =∆ The thing would obviously be in demand, but it needs an approach and many, many nuances. I don't know why I'm saying this at all, because the idea is a bit damp, but I probably want to listen to someone else's opinion on this score.}

That was on me for forgetting to put it in the instructions, I've never done a request event before so I didn't event think of it. Thanks for sending the ask in, I really wanted to write this one, it got a bit intense but I hope you enjoy it 💕

Franky's Toy Room

Prompt: Quiet

Additional Tags: afab reader, she/her pronouns, forniphilic gag, impact play, fucking machine, shibari, rope suspension, butt plug, forced orgasm, vibrator, squirting, breeding bench, pre-ts franky, blow job, deep throating, praise kink, use of sir, touch of degradation, fingering, p in v sex, creampie, aftercare

WC: 2.3k

Event Masterlist

🔞 Minors DNI 🔞

“Shhh baby, you're gonna wake the whole ship,” Franky tsk'd as you moaned around your gag, tongue fighting against the small silicone cock inside your mouth that was attached to it. Your body was held by soft royal blue ropes, your forearms bound together behind your back, your torso held up by a strong harness that suspended you from the ceiling, keeping your top half horizontal while your bottom half rested on your knees. The position you were in was essentially doggy style, but with the carefully tied harness supporting you instead of your arms, while a fucking machine Franky had made himself pounded into you from behind with a metalic groan and the wet squelch of silicone in your wet, abused hole. You'd already cum too many times to count, your ass red from the leather paddle he'd used earlier, accented by the large blue rhinestone at the end of the shiny silver plug in your asshole. The black leather padding of the bench underneath you was already soaked with a large puddle of your earlier releases, pooling underneath you and at your knees, dripping to the wooden floor below. He held a bright pink vibrator against your slit, your eyes rolling as you whined around the gag.

“Come on babe, give me another,” Franky hummed. You shook your head, eyes watering, relying entirely on the ropes to keep you upright as your legs turned to jelly, the vibrator against your oversensitive clit making you scream around the gag as you felt your coil somehow pulling taut again. You were sure this time you'd pass out. “Aw don't be like that, you're doing so super, I know you can cum again”

The speed of the fucking machine was increased, as was the intensity of the vibrator, and you went entirely silent as you came too hard to make sound, the air pulled from you as you shook uncontrollably and squirted again, barely anything coming out of you at this point from the sheer amount of fluids you'd already expelled. Franky's large hand supported you under your belly as your legs shook, not turning off the machine or removing the vibrator till your body went limp, hanging uselessly by the ropes. You barely registered the large dildo being removed from your gaping pussy, or the gag being removed from your mouth.

“Breathe, babe,” Franky cooed, loosening the ropes holding you gradually till you were a puddle of flesh resting in a puddle of cum on the leather bench. “Catch your breath sweetheart, we ain't done, you haven't even taken me yet”

You whined but didn't protest with a safeword as he easily picked you up and transferred you to a breeding bench, the padded leather supporting your weak torso on the higher section and your knees bent again on the lower sections either side, sore but thankfully no longer having to support any weight. Your arms were still bound behind you but it didn't matter, you were so dazed and fucked out that the whole Grandline could've come in and taken turns with you and you wouldn't have even noticed.

“So pretty,” Franky wiggled the plug in your ass, making you whine. He tutted in response, walking to your front and stretching your mouth open with a finger hooked in each cheek. “What did I say about making noise?” He tsk'd, “do I have to put the gag back in?”

“No sir,” you replied weakly, slightly slurred by the fingers in your mouth, doing your best to make half-lidded eye contact as you spoke, lest you be punished.

“Such a pretty mouth though,” he pressed his thumb down on your tongue, forcing your mouth wide open, the pad of his thumb swiping over the wet muscle. “Mmm, think I'll use it a little as well before I fuck your pretty pussy.” He pulled down his speedos and let them pool at his ankles, his thick cock springing from them, erect and red with need, as he stepped out of the fabric and kicked it away. He let his unbuttoned shirt fall from his shoulders as he pumped himself a few times.

“Open up doll,” he ordered, and you opened your mouth obediently for him as he stood at the front of the bench, lolling your tongue invitingly. He tapped the fat head of his dick against your tongue, smearing it with his precum that tasted artificial, a little like cola. It always made you wonder whether his cum was real or whether his testicles had needed to be rebuilt as well. You knew from the faint stitch lines down either side of his shaft that at least that his cock wasn't entirely natural. But hey, if you gotta replace your dick, may as well make it a monster. Franky was a big man anyway, his cock was proportional to the rest of him.

He grabbed your ponytail and pulled it hard, raising your head a little as he slipped his cock inside your mouth, the corners of your mouth stinging from the stretch. He wasted no time in making you gag, he knew you could take it. He loved the way your eyes watered as you looked up at him, his tip hitting the back of your throat and sliding down with every deep thrust he made, groaning as he pulled on your hair, his other hand supporting your chin so the pull wasn't too harsh.

“You're doing super, baby,” he purred, “just a little more of this, just wanna get warmed up before I fuck that tight little pussy of yours.” You whined around his cock, the vibrations making his eyes roll behind the sunglasses. “Good girl, doing such a good job babe. Fuck you're gonna make me bust down that whore throat of yours”

You knew him finishing in your mouth wouldn't save your pussy from further abuse, Franky could go as long as his cola reserves could, you usually gave out long before he did. Regardless, you wanted more of that strangely sweet, probably artificial cum, so you hollowed your throat and sucked hard, running your tongue against the underside of his cock the way you knew he liked.

“Fuck, [y/n]!” He shouted suddenly, groaning as ropes of sweet cum slid down your throat, his hips stuttering as he emptied inside your mouth, the last spurts spilling out over your tongue and face as he pulled out. “Bad girl,” he tsk'd, giving your face a playful slap, but you could tell as you licked your lips that you weren't really in trouble.

“Now who's loud?” You teased, earning a hard smack on the ass that made you yelp. Franky bent down so his face was at your eye level.

“Next sound and the gag goes back on,” he threatened, making you shiver. Your body was worn out but the way he spoke in that deep, dominant tone made your pussy throb with need, “Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes sir,” you replied, licking a little more cum from your face as it dripped down your cheek.

“Good girl,” he gave your face a light slap, before holding your chin, thumb running over your drool coated lips, “can you take me one more time?”

“Yes sir,” you wriggled a little in your restraints, pussy clenching around nothing as you anticipated how good it'd feel to have him fill you, “please sir”

“There's my good greedy girl,” he smiled, letting you suck on his thumb for a moment before pulling it out with a pop. He moved to the back of the bench, cock still solid as a rock, pulling you by your thighs so your ass was right at the end of the bench. The bench itself was taller than average, he'd made it himself to be adjustable, usually set to this height which was the most comfortable for him to fuck in a standing position, usually for fucking you or Robin. She usually joined him in on teasing you, but she was feeling unwell tonight, so the cyborg had you to himself, deep in the hold of the Thousand Sunny, in what he called his ‘Toy Room’.

Franky stuck two impossibly thick fingers inside you, the width of them combined bigger than his cock, stretching you wide. The large dildo he'd been using earlier was close to his size, making sure you were good and stretched to take him, but he loved to stretch you wider with his fingers for a moment so he could watch your pussy gape and admire your pretty pink walls before he painted them white.

He slid inside you easily, burying himself to the hilt, and you bit down on your bottom lip to stifle your moan as your pussy stretched around him. He loved to watch where his cock was buried in you, the membrane that lined the entrance of your hole catching on his thick cock with every slow pull, like your pussy refused to let go of him. It drove him wild to watch the way his cock got shiny with your slick, a creamy ring forming at this base and catching in his curly blue pubes as you came again, less intense this time, lacking the energy to squirt anymore. He praised you anyway as your pussy fluttered around him, impressed you'd managed to cum again at all without him even needing to use his special trick yet.

“Good girl, [y/n],” he praised, making you clench around him as you muffled your moans against the bench, “I'm gonna let you make sound, but only if you can cum one more time with me when I tell you too. Can you do that baby? Cum for me one more time and let me hear you scream?”

“Y-yes ssi-r,” you stuttered, struggling to not cry out as his cock began to vibrate inside you, a fun little feature he'd added while he was augmenting it. It never failed to build you back up again, no matter how fucked out you were, so he always saved it for last. It was a bit of a Pavlov effect because of it, your orgasm building quickly under the promise that it'd be the last one and you'd be able to rest soon. One day he was going to figure out that connection and it was gonna bite you in the ass, you were sure Robin knew but she wasn't a snitch. He could tell you were close as your hands balled into tight fists behind your back and your face dug into the leather below you, breathing hard while your pussy fluttered around him.

“There's my good girl, I knew you could do it,” he groaned, fucking you mercilessly as he chased his own high, pulling slightly on the plug in your ass. “Let me hear you scream baby, and I'll give you this fat load”

Your whole body shook and you saw white as you clamped down around him, letting out a scream that would probably sound pained to anyone hearing jt without context. You would have woken the whole ship if not for the fact that Franky had secretly sound proofed this room, not that you knew that. You didn't have the capacity to worry about waking anyone right now anyway as your orgasm made you tremble, Franky bruising your hips with how hard he held you as he pounded into you one last time and roared, filling you with so much sticky cum that it overflowed and dripped onto the breeding bench, pouring out like a unclogged drain as he pulled out and you made a disappointed little whine. You practically squealed as he removed the rhinestoned plug from your ass, appreciating the way your ass gaped and throbbed around nothing.

“Good girl,” he cooed, running his hand up your back, over the ropes and to your hair, scratching your scalp pleasantly as he came to stand in front of you, his cock softening as he bent down to kiss you tenderly. He quickly set about untying the ropes that bound you, your whole body laying limb like a piece of wet laundry draped over the bench the second your arms were released.

“Good girl [y/n], you did so well,” he cooed, carefully pulling you upright by your armpits, before lifting you bridal style to sit in a comfortable armchair, a prepared towel already laid on it to catch any fluids. He sat you in a way where you were slouched slightly to put less pressure on your sore rump, and he slowly lifted your legs to rest over the arms of the chair so he could carefully wipe you clean, examining you for any injury before bringing your legs back together. He kissed you on the forehead and quickly redressed himself before getting you a glass of cool water. He held it to your mouth and tilted it for you a little at a time so you could drink, your arms aching from being bound. Once he was satisfied you'd drunk enough water, he set about examining every part of your body methodically, massaging sore areas with his large hands and rubbing muscle soothing balm into them. You were half asleep before he lifted you up and sat himself in the chair, draping you on your belly over his lap and the arms of the chair so he could check your backside. Satisfied that you were entirely taken care of, he helped you into a silk dressing down and held you carefully in his lap, cooing gentle praises and rubbing your back softly. Sex with Franky was always a marathon, but you also relished the soft moments afterwards, and you knew that once you inevitably fell asleep he would carry you carefully to his bed, tuck you in, and wrap himself around you protectively.

[weirdstills]

Q&A with Serizawa Katsuya (from the fanbook!!!)

credits: Muz🧂🌂 on Twitter

Q1. What are your grades at night school? What's your best subject?

A. I'm best at language and history. My grades aren't bad, but I'm not trying to compete with anyone.

Q2. How did you end up at Spirits and Such?

A "If you have nowhere to go, how about you work here?' Seems like other people got that offer too, but I guess I'm the only one who took it.

Q3. What do you usually talk about with Reigen?

A. Things we liked eating at the konbini recently and so on. He often asks me about what's going on at school, or about games and anime that are good for passing time.

Q4. Do you plan to keep working at the consulting office? A. It's rare for me to get hired, so I'll keep working there as long as my employment period lasts. I don't really know what I'm capable of doing, so it's enough that I have a job I can do.

Q5. Do you stay awake for New Year's or do you sleep when the time comes?

A. Awake.

Q6. Who did you talk to most when you were in Claw?

A. The President and Shou, I guess. They have very different personalities, but they treat everyone equally. I'm the kind of person other people usually look down on, so I can tell.

Q7. What's your alcohol tolerance? Do you go out when you're free from work?

A. I don't drink. Reigen doesn't either. We went out for drinks once, and we basically licked the surface of our beers before we started going madly at the edamame. Actually, Reigen fell asleep in the store just like that.

Q8. Serizawa-san, you're reliable and trusted by your boss. Give some advice to the rest of us working adults!

A. When you're just starting out, it's enough just to be able to say hello, thank you, and apologize! But doing these correctly is actually rather difficult.

Q9. What did you do with your first paycheck?

A. Reigen-san lent me money for my suit, so I used it to pay him back.

Q10. Is there anything you wish Reigen-san would stop doing?

A. At first, I thought he kept farting loudly and with no hesitation. Even if he's my boss, I'd hope that he can at least control the volume. It seems like that was actually the sound of the chair being in poor condition and rubbing against the floor, though, so hope he can fix the chair. Also, wish he'd stop joking around when there's dangerous evil spirits in front of him. Kageyama-kun says those aren't jokes, but if that's the case, there's really some situations I don't understand.

Q11. What's the most useless information you learned from Reigen?

A. He said there was a secret method to eating pizza without burning your mouth and then immediately burned his mouth. Also, there's supposed to be some trick to throwing salt around...? My school exams are coming soon and I'd like to remove those memories from my memory, even though I respect him very much.

[fullmoonfireball]

Pikmin 2 Personality Quiz Translation

quick disclaimer: I am not especially fluent in Japanese, I'm just some shmuck trying their best, so take these translations with a grain of salt. especially since there's some i'm really unsure of here.

feel free to play along with this link! or just scroll all the way down to the "results" section at the bottom if you just want to see the descriptions

Thank you for Accessing [This Page]

Ahh, thank you! You came right away. I'm so happy.

Hey... If you don't mind... I could examine your personality!

View Content

(note: there's some usage of katakana in the paragraph where it typically wouldn't be, notably for the pronouns 'watashi' and 'anata', so I decided to bold those.)

Pikmin Personality Quiz

Q1: What is the most important thing in your life?

Friends

Money

Family

......

Myself

Q2: Of the following 5 colours, which do you prefer?

Red

Purple

White

Yellow

Blue

Q3: Who can you not say no to?

My parents

My lover

My boss

Myself

There isn't anyone (None)

Q4: What word best describes your lifestyle?

Fearful

Perky

Heart-pounding

Voracious

Impulsive

(note: these are all onomatopoeia in the original, so an exact translation would be impossible, or at least unreasonable. hopefully this does the job fine.)

Q5: You're flying in a spaceship. What happens to you next?

I crash

I sleep

I explore an undiscovered planet

I fall

I go back home

(note: "I fall" could equally be "I fail". it's hard to say with so little context, but either way it's not good.)

Q6: How much money do you have saved up?

No more than 100 yen

No more than 1000 yen

No more than 10,000 yen

No more than 100,000 yen

More than that! I'm rich!

(I'm here for translations, not currency conversions, but this would be (in USD, since I'm pretty sure most of you are American even though I'm not): $0.67, $6.67, $66.72, and $667.21 respectively. the fact this was probably made for children really shows here.)

Q7: What's your favourite game?

The leisurely Animal Crossing.

Pikmin, of course.

As expected, it's Zelda.

Obviously Mario, right?

Actually, it's none of these.

Q8: What's your favourite creature?

Pellet Posy

Iridescent Flint Beetle

Bulborb

Waterwraith

Pikmin

Q9: What's your LEAST favourite creature?

Beady Long Legs

Titan Dweevil

Bulborb

Breadbug

Bumbling Snitchbug

(note: this quiz seems to specifically be related to the New Play Control version of Pikmin 2, so the inclusion of the Titan Dweevil isn't QUITE as spoilery as it seems on first glance)

Q10: What's your favourite place?

Valley of Repose

Awakening Wood

Perplexing Pool

Wistful Wild

Inside the Onion

Q11: During a space trip, you're met with an accident, and end up shipwrecked on an uninhabited planet. What kind of planet is it?

A jungle planet

A sandy planet

A mechanized planet

A planet of bugs

It's actually Earth

Q12: If were shipwrecked on an uninhabited planet and could only bring one thing with you, what would it be?

My secret safe

My Game Boy Advance

My passbook

Lunch

A novel

Q13: If you were to start a family in the future, how many children would you have?

None

One

Two

I don't know

A lot

Q14: How would you describe your interactions with others?

Passionate

Cool

Devoted

Easy to get carried away

I don't care

Q15: Seriously, how old are you?

10 or less

20 or less

40 or less

60 or less

What a rude thing to ask!

Check your personality!

(note: if you click this button before answering all of the questions, you will get a popup saying "Q[earliest unanswered number] has not been entered.")

RESULTS

Your personality is [most like]...

The President.

Your strength is that you are honest about your feelings. Your energy as a leader is undefeatable.

However, you should maybe consider other people's feelings at least a little bit.

THIS → is the perfect partner for you!

Your perfect match is...

The President's wife.

She's straightforward about her feelings, more so than you.

She always toys with you.

However, that's because she believes in you.

→ Back

(note: I have absolutely zero confidence in that middle sentence.)

Your personality is [most like]...

Olimar.

A hard-working man who loves his family. He is popular among the Pikmin for his leadership.

However, he's a bit unlucky.

THIS → is the perfect partner for you!

Your perfect match is...

Olimar's wife.

No matter how destitute, she will always support you with great love.

There can be no secrets (such as a certain safe) between lovers or husband and wife.

You two can keep it together and not let the recession get to you.

→ Back

Your personality is [most like]...

Louie.

You're not so good at communication. People tend to misunderstand you, and have no idea what you're thinking.

Maybe you should voice your feelings more often?

THIS → is the perfect partner for you!

Your perfect match is...

Louie's nana.

Her narrow eyes make her look like she can't see anything. But trust me, she definitely sees the real you.

Even if it's hard, please indulge her as much as you can.

→ Back

(note: another really hard phrase to translate on the partner pages, yowch. this time, it was the last line of her description.)

Your personality is [most like]...

The Hocotate Ship.

On the outside, talkative to the point of being a blabbermouth.

But on the inside, actually a bit dry.

THIS → is the perfect partner for you!

Your perfect match is...

Mr. Beady Long Legs.

A strong personality that will really shake your heart. Whether it's out of fear or love, your heart will keep thumping.

Once you get over these feelings, a new you awaits...... Probably.

→ Back

(note: because "さん" is gender neutral, this could equally be Ms. Beady Long Legs. hocotate ship yuri, i GUESS.)

Your personality is [most like]...

The Pikmin.

Serious and hard-working. Your strong suit is cooperating with others. The type to thoroughly devote yourself.

But maybe you could assert yourself a little more?

THIS → is the perfect partner for you!

Your perfect match is...

Mr. Bulborb.

It will lead you with a WILD personality.

A big maw awaits you.

Please look forward to some wild kisses.

→ Back

(note: again, could be Ms. instead)

[1moremilgram-enjoyer]

MeMe and Control over One's Own Destiny

Alright I've been holding off on talking about Mikoto until Double releases, but I saw he was on a train and my brain went Silly. Don't you understand how crazy the symbolism is?! (<- Mentally unwell)

So now I have to talk about how MeMe handles the concept of destiny and the control the alters have on the system's future, because it's honestly so interesting to me.

CW Murder

Disclaimer: I'm not an expert on DID, feel free to correct me if I get anything wrong

The first big connection between MeMe and the idea of destiny is obviously the recurring theme of tarot cards. These are used for divination, meaning the practice of trying to learn about the future through supernatural means. In other words, they're deeply tied to the concept of destiny, of future events that will come to affect us, and the ways we may influence it. What's important to take away here is that, regardless of whether or not you believe in it, reading tarot cards is a way for people to try to understand their future so they can take try to take control of it.

Once you make this little connection, a lot of the imagery in MeMe starts to get interesting. To give you an example, one of the opening shots is of a bunch of tarot cards all scattered in water.

So, their future is scattered, it's uncertain, it's messy, etc. You get the idea, I don't think I need to elaborate on why Mikoto's life is a bit of a mess.

However, I think there are two scenes which are particularly interesting in this regard. When Aokoto (host) draws a blank card in the first chorus, and when he gathers the cards in the deck at the start of the third chorus.

So first, we can be sure this is Aokoto because the lyrics not only use 'boku', but also express confusion at the situation, which only really fits the host.

Why am I [boku] here? It must be a mistake? Take a good look at me [boku], until you find me The truth will come to reveal itself I won't forgive you if this is happening to me even though I'm right

Why am I [boku] here? It must be a mistake? Take a good look at me [boku], until you find me

(Note: If there is no clarification on which pronoun is used when I put lyrics here, it's because the Japanese doesn't actually use any pronouns)

What's happening here? As stated, the tarot cards are a representation of destiny and their future. By drawing a tarot card, Aokoto is trying to understand his situation and destiny better. And by stacking the deck up neatly, he's trying to take control of his destiny, of his future. The desire to be free and be able to control his life is a very important part of Aokoto's character:

(T1) Q14: What will you be doing in 10 years? M (Ao): I'd like to work independently and make my own design company. That way I'm free to do what I want.

(T1) Q8: What are your reasons for wanting to work for your current job? M (Ao): I work at an advertising company that's at the top of the business world, you know? Just being able to get to that position is something to be proud of. I worked really hard to get hired there, too.

Aokoto places high value on the work he's done, because that shows how committed he is to having control over his life and his job.

(T1) Q12: How do you get to work? M (Ao): I ride a road bike. It's a hobby of mine, and it's good to exercise too. I don't need to worry about missing the train, but that can either be a good or bad thing.

I've seen this answer interpreted a few different ways, but personally I believe what Aokoto's implying is that the freedom of not having to rely on the train is both good and bad. Essentially, he doesn't have to stress about missing it, but there's also no guarantee that he'll get to work in time without the reliability of the train. However, he still prefers the bike, because it gives him more freedom.

... Foreshadowing is a narrative device-

There's also the matter of the tarot spreads which appear in that "blank card" scene. There are two distinct ones:

Now, the whole mess is too complicated to get into here (and I actually am holding off from analysis until we get extra context from Double for that reason), but I believe one of these spreads belongs to Aokoto, and the other belongs to Midokoto (Secret Third gatekeeper alter). Which is which doesn't matter, because the card I want to focus on is the card in the "Hopes and Fears" position (EXTREMELY long story), which is I - The Magician (upright) in both of them. The Magician represents (among a fuckton of other things because tarot cards are frustratingly ambiguous by design) power, potential, basically the ability to achieve your goals. Thus, in the "Hopes and Fears" position, it would mean Aokoto wants to be able to control his life and fulfill his potential, and is afraid he might not be able to.

There is also the "Present" or "Self" card being the reversed XII - The Hanged Man. The Hanged Man upright represents (among other things) patience, the hope that as long as everything continues the same, things will turn out okay. Thus, reversed, it could be read as implying the querent is trying their best to change their situation, but are failing at it.

And this is where we get to the second part of the scenes I pointed out before. Because when Aokoto draws a card by itself, it's a blank card. In other words, no matter how much he wants to, Aokoto doesn't have full control of his future. I mean, obviously, right? He himself can't control his destiny when the other alters are also doing pretty impactful stuff. Depending on what theories you subscribe to, he may have ended up in Milgram without even murdering anyone, which is what I believe.

The same can be seen when he tries to put the deck back together. You might notice the deck there is actually thinner than the other time we see it.

He tries to "fix" or "arrange" his future, but he's "playing with half a deck", he's only half in control of his future. In this metaphor, the other alter(s) would have the rest of the deck, would control the rest of the system's destiny. Does that make sense?

Which gets us to the other alter who does tarot reading.

Notice the red mannequin there? The way 0 - The Fool's pouch of food is now a skull? And you can see this alter, heavily implied to be Orekoto, reads a Celtic cross spread with the Fool in the "querent" or "present" position.

Thus, The Fool represents Orekoto, and he too desires control over their future. That's why he's reading the spread, the same way Aokoto previously tried to draw a card to check his future. And I think it's pretty safe to say Orekoto must have killed or attacked at least one person, which is his way of trying to secure a better future for the system. Protector alter and all that.

[Timelines] Mikoto (Ao): Can you hear me talking like this? If you can hear me, then answer me. Why are you doing such horrible things? Hey. It's your fault things have become like this. ……Answer me!! Mikoto (Ore): Ah, ahhh!! Because, I did it for my/your (Boku's) sake…! Because I/you (Boku-ga) would break apart!!

(Translation by Maristelina)

Plus all the other reasons to believe that.

That spread is a bit odd for many reasons, but one thing we can pretty much be sure of is Orekoto's "Hopes and Fears" are represented by VII - The Chariot.

The Chariot (among other things) represents strength of will and control, basically think of it as a more forceful version of The Magician. Thus, Orekoto also hopes he can take control of their life, though he does it through force, and he fears he might be getting too forceful.

If I could laugh, if I could go back I'd play dead even though I'm alive right? If I could end, if I could stop How long would this dream go on?

Assuming it is Orekoto singing here (no pronouns so), it seems he doesn't want to kill, but sees himself cornered, like he has to kill. If he could stop, he'd "go back and play dead even while alive", he wouldn't kill anymore. But when he feels "boku will fall apart", he tries to save him through any means he can, which is likely murder. The exact reasons are as of yet unknown (someone stalking them, stress, could be a lot of things), but that's the idea.

However, you tarot enthusiast might notice a few interesting differences between this Chariot card and the actual Chariot card. This is important, because the meaning of these cards comes from the images, so when the image differs (apart from stylistic choices obvs), the meaning differs with it.

First important difference: the real Chariot has lions, MeMe's Chariot has bikes. This again relates bikes to the idea of freedom and one's own will.

Foreshadowing is-

Second; MeMe's Chariot has the protagonist swinging around a mace, which the real Chariot just has a wand. I frankly don't think this means anything other than MeMe's Chariot explicitly references murder rather than other, non-physical forms of strength and force.

Third, an important part of the real Chariot is that the man doesn't hold a leash on the lions, he controls them through force of will, apparently. Meanwhile, the mannequin in MeMe's version does hold chains to control the bikes, which again I believe simply implies a more forceful and direct version of the meaning. Orekoto doesn't trust his destiny to guide the system in the right direction as long as they're strong enough, he feels he needs to have more direct control.

And finally, the lions in the real Chariot are fine, but in MeMe's version, one of the bikes is fucking exploding.

So what the hell is up with that? Well, let's keep in mind what I said before. Aokoto also wants control of his life. So I believe in a way these bikes represent Aokoto and Orekoto's actions. One of them Orekoto has direct control over (he controls his own actions, after all), while the other is getting hurt by Orekoto's control. Orekoto may want nothing more than to protect the system, but the way he does it is harmful to Aokoto and destroys the control he wants to have over their life. I mean, it landed them in Milgram (according to some interpretations), and it's not like Aokoto likes the murder.

(T1) Q6: Tell us what you hate. M (Ao): Staying up all night working / reptiles / violence

[Double Preview] Hey now, I [ore] saved you right? So why in the hell are you crying?

(I will use the preview as evidence, watch me)

Temporary CW for abusive relationships and rape (Mono Poisoner)

This idea of "love" that hurts the other is also implied by Mono Poisoner, their Trial 1 cover. Though to be clear, Orekoto is not anywhere near as awful as the protagonist of Mono Poisoner, since he isn't intentionally hurting the rest of the system, and obviously isn't actually abusing the other alter(s).

“She belongs completely, entirely to me!” Kissing, sleeping together, everything beyond that too No one can hope to cut this connection between us

After brandishing that poisonous desire to monopolize and having erased YOU completely, It seems like it can be easily embraced, the entirety of that heart “YOU best not get carried away!”

Taking out the really violent and abusive elements out, this does vaguely fit the idea I'm trying to get across.

Temporary CW over

Anyways, the point is that Orekoto wants control over their life, but is accidentally harming Aokoto by taking away his agency.

There is more symbolism of this ‘drive to control destiny’ in the moon which consistently appears throughout MeMe.

As you can see, it’s in the first quarter phase. This is halfway between the New Moon which represents the beginning of a journey and the Full Moon which represents the end or rebirth, and because of that, it can represent a difficult time where decisions must be made, a point where strength of will is necessary. This again fits both of Aokoto and Orekoto, since they’re both making important decisions for their future. Hence also why the moon is half and half, the future is being decided half by Aokoto, half by Orekoto.

Alternatively, you could read it as only Orekoto making decisions, with the other 'half' being "left in the dark" because Aokoto doesn't know what Ore's doing. That would explain why the moon only shows up in relation to Orekoto in the internal world and the murder scenes.

Heavy speculation incoming (more than before anyways)

But hold on a second. I said before the upright Hanged Man, the card on Mikoto's shirt through most of MeMe, is about patience and not doing anything to change their situation. This is somewhat contradictory to The Fool, which is all about new opportunities and taking new risks (long story), and is obviously contradictory to the reversed Hanged Man because that's how tarot cards work. Because of that, and everything else I've been saying, it feels like the upright Hanged Man doesn't really fit either Aokoto or Orekoto.

Which is why it's so convenient we have a third (plot-relevant, there may be more) alter who does want their life to continue as is, isn't it?

The minus energy that I swallowed Hugged me [boku] Maybe it's okay to try to keep on living Split in half, Make that heart beat

This scene is very clearly connected to the aftermath of a murder, and shows an alter that has accepted the "negative (minus) energy" of violence. However, the use of 'boku' rules out Orekoto as the singer. Thus, we have ourselves our favorite Secret Third Alter, Midokoto. And Midokoto says, filling in the blanks, that ‘maybe it’s okay to keep living [like this]’, as long as they ‘split in half’ to ‘make that heart beat.’

Before we continue, I have to address that yes, I believe Midokoto is represented by the upright Hanged Man, even though he’s the only alter who’s never seen wearing the shirt. Either his back is turned, he’s shirtless, or straight up has a completely different shirt. However, I actually think this makes perfect sense.

It’s widely accepted that if Midokoto exists, he’s likely a gatekeeper alter who co-fronts most of the time, meaning he’s still aware of everything that’s happening even while he isn’t controlling the body (<- simplified version, read more if you’re interested [alter roles] [co-fronting]). Therefore, he’s a constant in Mikoto’s life, and it makes sense for him to always be present in some way as long as any alter is on screen. He’s on the shirt when the other two are there, so when the shirt isn’t there, it’s because the ‘upright Hanged Man’ is the one controlling the body. Does that make sense?

I should note, Mikoto’s version of The Hanged Man includes a bunch of eyes on the background.

Which fits the idea of Midokoto overseeing everything in the others’ lives, and for the inverse in Aokoto’s case could also be interpreted as societal pressure, long story.

Yes, Midokoto's celtic cross spread has the reversed Hanged Man in the middle of The Wheel, but let’s just say that means ‘present’ rather than ‘querent.’ Yes, there’s a Fool portrait in the background of that one scene, I swear there’s an explanation but it’s too long to get into here.

Point is, he’s the one who wants their life to continue as is, and thus the one who fits the idea of ‘patience’ that The Hanged Man (upright) embodies.

But make no mistake. He still has The Magician as his “Hopes and Fears” in the spread which represents him, meaning he does yearn for some control and fears not having the means to achieve it.

However, I believe the type of control he’s looking for is different from the other two. See, while Aokoto wants freedom and control over his life in a more conventional way (good job, free movement, independence), and Orekoto wants control in a ‘no one will stop “I/you” from achieving what “I/you” want’ kinda way (aka safety), Midokoto wants control over the system, not the rest of their life. He wants to keep Aokoto and Orekoto ‘split in half’ because that’s how they can both live as they please, it ‘makes their heart beat.’

That’s why the moon that represents decision-making is split in half. That’s why there’s only two bikes in The Chariot card. That’s why Midokoto never bothers to read a single tarot card. Because the ones deciding where their life moves are Aokoto and Orekoto, all Midokoto does is keep things running smoothly. Though of course, this is all just my interpretation.

In fact, you can even tell based on what we believe each alter to do. Aokoto does the day-to-day work, making sure he has the opportunity to achieve his dream of working independently in the future. Orekoto deals with threats until the system as a whole is safe, which includes throwing away evidence so they don't get arrested. He does a dogshit job at it, yeah, but he's trying.

However, once they get into the apartment, when the external threats have been dealt with, the one who bathes to make sure Aokoto doesn't learn of Orekoto's actions, the one who keeps their lives metaphorically 'split in half', is Midokoto.

Heavy speculation kinda over

So, where were we? I said this was inspired by the Double thumbnail, didn’t I? Well, yes, even if I have very little to say about it in relation to this post. You could say I kinda, uh, went off the rails a bit (<- I am immensely unfunny)

As I said, he’s on a train. And with all the stuff I mentioned before about how bikes are associated with freedom for him and stuff, it makes the imagery of being stuck on a train with the victims (I assume that’s what the mannequins represent, I’ve seen other interpretations) a lot more interesting.

Think about it. When you get on a train, you made the decision to enter it, but you don’t have control over where it goes. And that’s what’s happening here: the alter on screen is in for the ride, and he feels there’s nothing he can do to alter the course. It’s like a railroad.

Aokoto didn’t get on this train. Obviously the scene is metaphorical (otherwise who left their mannequins in the goddamn public train), but we know Aokoto doesn’t use the train. However, he’s on it now, alongside Orekoto who is probably the one fronting here? I assume, given the red light in the background. In my mind it would make sense for the thumbnails to be Aokoto T1 -> Orekoto T2 -> Midokoto T3, but that doesn’t have to be the case.

What I’m trying to convey is the symbolism of the system being stuck in a set path, a set destiny, caused by a decision not made by Aokoto. And if Orekoto is really the one fronting or being represented here, he’s miserable because of the path his actions have landed him on.

If I could break it, if I could change Can I do it, I wonder from when I started to give up

He’s ‘given up’ because he’s accepted he’s ‘on the train’, his path is already set and he can’t change it (“if I could change”). Yes, give me that Orekoto angst!

Anyways, please keep in mind this is all my interpretation of the symbolism and all of this is extremely subjective, especially with how confusing Mikoto's entire story is. I hope you forgive my brainrot at seeing a guy take a train. Take care!

[jessicaloons]

Chapter 17:

But there was one prize I’d cheat to win…

Masterlist - Previous - Next

"Lizzie? Lizzie!" Pete tapped my shoulder. I looked up and took the headphones off.

"Sorry, didn’t hear you!" I said apologetically.

"Could you please take a break? You’re in there for hours!" he looked worried.

"I’m fine. I need to understand why the conditions in Imola had such an impact on my driving!" I mumbled.

"Lizzie, almost the whole grid struggled! It was wet. Raining like crazy at times! You we-…" Pete began but I interrupted him.

"I’m good in the rain, Pete! Damn good! I love a wet track, I was always superior when it rained! I just don’t understand why the car was so… so difficult to drive! Valtteri did good and as we switched my car into the same set up it got only slightly better! The rear felt fidgety…" I let out my frustration.

"We’re on it, Lizzie! It wasn’t you who struggled, it was the car!" Pete tried to reason with me but I shook my head.

"But how can we be sure that it wasn’t me who just wasn’t good enough?" I said, looking down on my hands in my lap.

"Because, as you just said, you are brilliant in the rain and we all know that. The feedback you gave us? As soon as we changed your set up it got better… not perfect but better! And Valtteri had the same problems… so, Lizzie, take a break!" Pete looked at me, reassuringly and I sighed.

"Okay…" I sighed and got out of my seat "Chris? Can you put up Barcelona next? Raining."

"Sure." Chris smiled and I left with Pete.

"You’re expecting rain in Barcelona?" he asked, cocking an eyebrow.

"No, I just want to be prepared for anything!" I replied and he smiled.

"Choosing you as a driver really was our best move!" he chuckled and I laughed.

"If you say so!"

5 days of intense simulator sessions, strategy meetings, brainstorming with the engineers and an event with some sponsors later and I was ready to leave. Only one last meeting with Felix and then I would be on my way back home.

"Lizzie, come on in!" Felix smiled and I closed the door, sitting down "You did a good job in the sim! I think we’re well prepared for Barcelona!"

"Yeah, it was good. We gathered a lot of data." I agreed and Felix nodded.

"So, I wanted to let you know how happy and satisfied we are with your work! You’re doing amazing! You represent Audi in the best way possible!" Felix practically cheered.

"Oh stop it! Thank you, Felix! That means a lot!" it really did.

"As our driver, you should represent us at all times… especially on the streets! That’s why you need an upgrade…" Felix laid two boxes on the desk and I looked at him confused "These are yours. Not company owned. Yours. We would like to thank you and show our appreciation…" he slides the boxes over to me and I opened the first one. Car keys. Then the second one. Car keys.

"What? 2? But… Felix.. I’m umm- I don’t…" I stuttered and Felix laughed and got up.

"Come on, follow me." he pulled me up and we walked out of the building, Dad stood next to Pete, talking away.

"Lizzie? Are you okay?" Dad asked as he saw me, looking confused.

"Give her a moment, she’ll be fine!" Felix said and right on cue a dark grey Q8 e-tron parked in front of us, license plate LB-LD-7398. I almost choked and looked at Felix.

"What the…" I began but then the loud roaring of an engine startled me and I turned around as a white R8 Spyder, license plate LB-L-7398, parked next to the Q8.

"Lizzie, you’re new cars!" Felix chimed and I was overwhelmed, eyes tearing up.

"That’s… Felix… I can’t- I can’t accept that? That’s too- that’s too much!" I stuttered again and Felix just pulled me to his side.

"You deserve it! They’re yours!" he smiled as Dad walked up to us "So you two have to discuss now who drives what car back home!"

"Wow! Thank you Felix! Thank you everyone?! Who do I have to thank? Like seriously? The board? CEO?" I hugged him and he laughed.

"I’ll tell the board that you were overwhelmed and very thankful!" he said and patted my back.

"Thank you, Felix! What a surprise!" Dad side hugged Felix and then looked at me.

"I’m taking the R8." I smiled.

"Good, because I don’t think that I could get into it!" he laughed and I did as well.

"Probably true!" I agreed.

"Oh my god! OH MY GOD!" Daniel almost screamed at me as I got out of my car "Is that? Is that your car? Oh god it is! The license plate! Fucking hell!"

"Yup, that’s my car. One of my cars…" I had a big smile on my face and he looked at me with big eyes.

"One of your cars? What?" he looked confused and excited at the same time.

"Pops has my Q8 e-tron… they just gave me two freaking cars! TWO! Amazing ones! My dream cars!" I jumped excitedly and Daniel carefully opened the door.

"It smells like new car!" he laughed and I nodded.

"Get in, we’re having a ride! Pops will be here in… I don’t know, as soon as I saw the unlimited sign I was gone, 317 kph, could’ve gone faster but there was a little traffic." I was giddy and Daniel whistled appreciative.

"Damn! How far behind is he?" he laughed.

"Well there was a traffic jam, so I lost time as well. He was also driving fast at times. Maybe half an hour?" I said and started the engine. I drove out of the drive way and straight to the motorway "I’ll show you what this baby can do!"

"Please don’t kill us!" Daniel laughed nervously.

"Oh come on! Have a little faith in me! I know how to drive a car!" I replied, pouting a little.

"Yeah, yeah, I know. I trust you!" he sighed and that was the moment I spotted the unlimited sign.

"Let’s go!" I pushed the throttle and accelerated, the engine roaring.

Feeling the adrenaline rushing through my veins never felt better. My phone started ringing.

"Pops is calling." a female voice said and Daniel and I started laughing.

"What the fuck?" I accepted the call "Hey Pops! Where are you?"

"I just passed you!" he said and Daniel laughed "Hi Daniel, how is she driving? Like a lunatic? That’s what I thought when I saw her speeding away!"

"Hey Juergen, no it’s alright. She didn’t kill us… yet…" Daniel chuckled and I groaned a little.

"You guys do know what I’m doing for a living, right?" I said.

"Driving around in circles, going vroom vroom?" Daniel asked and I hit his arm.

"I’m not a NASCAR driver you moron!" I said a little agitated.

"You’re not?" Dad teased.

"Ha-ha… you’re so funny boys!" I fake laughed.

"Oh come on! Don’t be sour! Drive safe and come back in one piece! See you guys later!" Dad hung up and Daniel chuckled.

"So, you wanna drive?" I asked and he looked at me.

"No? Definitely not? Not here anyway!" he looked at me with big eyes.

"Alright, let’s get back and then on the fields." I steered the car to the exit and left the motorway, to join it back in the opposite direction again "God I love my job!" and with that I pushed the throttle trough, zooming through the traffic.

I parked the car on the opposite side of the street and got out, leaning relaxed against its side. It was a sunny day and I watched a group of kids play in the courtyard. I pulled my phone out and scrolled through Instagram, as Dad called.

"What’s up, Pops?" I answered the call.

"I was just checking in, will you come home first, or do we meet at the track?" Dad asked.

"Let’s meet up at the track!" I said checking the time "Yeah, we‘ll have some lunch and then we head straight to Hans."

"Alright. See you in a bit!" Dad hung up and I saw 2 men approaching me.

"Hi, umm- sorry to bother you, but… are you the racing driver for Audi? Lizzie Doetterer, right?" the tall, blonde one asked and I nodded.

"Can we maybe take a picture together?" the dark haired one asked.

"Yeah, sure." I smiled, pushing my sunglasses up.

"Cool!" they said and we took a selfie together.

"So umm- I didn’t know you were married and have a kid?" the dark haired one said and I chuckled.

"Me neither…" I answered as the door of the nursery school opened and the teacher stood at the side. Letting the kids out one by one after spotting whoever was supposed to pick them up "I’m picking up my nephew."

"Ah ok. Cool." the blond guy said and I just nodded, pushing my sunglasses back down, waiting for Liam."So you’re single?"

"Sorry?" I looked at him.

"I’m just shooting my shot here." he laughed and I felt a little uncomfortable, not knowing what to answer.

"Nope. I’m in a serious and committed relationship with my car. That’s my number one priority right know. My career." I said tight lipped.

"Come on, you surely could make some room for a couple of drinks, this weekend maybe?" he stepped closer and I saw out of the corner of my eyes Liam walking out.

"Nope. I’ll be driving in Barcelona this weekend. And like I said. I’m focusing on my career. But thank you for asking. That was very kind of you!" I pushed off of the car and crossed to street, Liam spotting me and immediately bolting into my arms.

"Lizzie! You’re picking me up today?! That’s so cool!" he exclaimed and I hugged him.

"You and I will go to Mama Leone‘s for some pinsa and then we’ll meet Pops, Daniel and Shima and her nephew at the karting track!" I said and Liams eyes sparked with excitement "Ready?"

"Let’s go!" he screeched and I sat him down, holding his hand while we crossed the street "Where’s your car?" he was searching for my Mini and I opened the R8. Liams eyes widening "IS THAT YOUR CAR?" he yelled and I laughed.

"Yup. How do you like it?" I asked as I opened the door for him, watching as he climbed inside, sitting down in his child seat.

"What an amazing car! Is it fast?" he asked and I nodded.

"It is. I’ll show you a little later on." I buckled his seatbelts in and closed the door "Pinsa first!"

"You’re brilliant! But you already know that! You have no idea how proud I am of you, Lizzie!" Hans looked thinner, his voice sounded a little breathless, pale face, thinning hair.

"Thank you, Hans! Really!" I hugged him. He felt weaker than usual, his body lean "Are you okay? You don’t look too good?"

"You know, some days are better, some are worse. I’ll be fine! Having my former star driver here is definitely lifting my spirit!" he chuckled a little and I smiled "The kids will have thousands of questions for you!"

"I’m happy to answer them all!" I answered and he nodded a little "But for now, I need to drive a few laps!"

"You go ahead and do that!" he walked over to the group of kids and I watched him closely. He didn’t look good at all. When I heard at the beginning of the year that he was sick, I was hoping he would be fine in no time, but it was quite the opposite.

"Ready?" Daniel approached and I sighed a little.

"Yeah! Let’s go!" I put on my helmet and climbed into a kart.

It was thrilling, exhilarating. I loved every second of it. There was a rare beauty about karting. It always grounded me, soothed me. Although my body was buzzing, I rarely felt this at peace and calm somewhere else.

Next up I buckled in Liam and Josha, Shima’s nephew, and explained them the kart, how they had to drive, before I got back into my kart, accompanying them on their first laps. Both boys started out a little hesitant, careful. But after the second lap Liam pushed the throttle, speeding away. Lapping Josha and me after a while.

"Looks like he has some of Lizzie’s talent in his bones!" Hans laughed as I climbed out of my kart "He’s always welcome to join the academy!"

"Yeah, he’s just as fearless as his aunt!" Dad replied next to him, watching me pulling my helmet off.

"And reckless! Did you see his move on me in turn 5?" I said and Hans chuckled.

"I had a Déjà vu to when you were driving here for the first time! His move looked just like yours!" he said and I nodded.

"He handed me my ass there!" I laughed.

"Dad, will you look out for the boys? I will have a little talk with the junior academy!” I smiled at the kids, waiting in the corner, all sitting on the benches staring at me.

"Yeah, sure!" Dad walked to the track and I followed Hans to the ground of young drivers.

"Kids! Say hi to Lizzie, former WSeries champion, current Formula 1 driver for Audi, first girl to score a podium in a F1 race and former Bircher Academy driver!" Hans introduced me and I blushed a little.

"Oh stop it! When you say it like that, it sounds super fancy!" I chuckled a little bit and the kids laughed with me "It’s really amazing being back here, seeing you guys doing what I was doing all these years back!"

"Was it hard to become a F1 driver?"

"When did you start karting?"

"You really started here?"

"Do you think you can win a race? Or even the championship?"

They bombarded me with questions and I tried to answer them all one by one. Seeing young kids like them being so passionate about racing really warmed my heart, but when the two girls in the team said that they only decided to join the team because they saw me becoming a F1 driver last year, against all odds, as a girl, I almost choked up.

"You are a real role model! You showed the world that girls can race too!" the blonde girl, Chiara said.

"Not just race! No you showed the world that we can be winners too! I told my dad that you would win a race this year! I’m sooo sure that you will!" the other girl, Lena, a bold brunette said.

"I will give my best to win!" I smiled at them and Hans nodded.

"I have a feeling, that win will come faster than you know it!" he said and I chuckled a little.

"If Hans says it, then it must be true! I can only advice you to listen carefully to everything he teaches you! Without him, I wouldn’t be standing here today, as a Formula 1 driver! He’s the best teacher out there! Consider yourselves lucky to learn from him!" I said and the group of kids all nodded in agreement "And now I want so see you kids race! Let’s go!"

"Hi Lizzie, how are you today?" Dr. Lindner asked and I plopped down on the sofa, sighing "Oh, that bad? What happened?"

"Imola happened! I was bad. Like fucking bad." I groaned and he opened up his notebook, reading through his notes.

"Okay, step by step, please. Did you talk to Charles? About why you felt so uncomfortable at his home?" he asked and I started picking at a loose thread at the sleeve of my sweater "I take that as a no?"

"No… I just didn’t know how to tackle it? We had to sleep in the guest room anyway and then I left for home, the next time we saw each other was in Imola and after a Imola I went straight to Neuburg where I was until yesterday… so yeah…" I let out and Dr. Lindner nodded.

"Okay, so you’ve been avoiding the topic, why did you have to sleep in the guest room? Did Charles sense something was wrong?" he asked and I chuckled a little.

"He spilled a whole bottle of water on his mattress… and it was completely soaked" I said and he cocked an eyebrow.

"Oh… well. Good for you. I guess." he wrote something down and I looked at him questioningly, but he ignored it "When will you stay at Charles place again?"

"Probably before the Monaco GP… I always was at his place for it. I guess I have to tell him the truth then." I said and closed my eyes, leaning back.

"Yes, you should. Let’s practice it." he sat up, putting his notebook on the little table next to his armchair.

"Like role playing?" I asked disbelieving.

"Kinda. I want you to sit down with Charles, next to him, not to look at him. Because this is where you always will retreat. Looking in his eyes. Seeing his smile. That’s your biggest enemy. I want you to speak to him in a firm voice. Ask him to not interrupt you, let you speak. And then you tell him exactly what’s going on. Say it in one go. Just let it out. Everything. And when you’re done. I want you to take a deep breath and calm yourself down, before turning to Charles and work together with him through this issue, then when he has an insight of how you’re feeling." Dr. Lindner said and I gulped.

"And you think this will work out?" I asked, voice quiet.

"Only one way to find out." he answered and I nodded slowly.

"Probably."

After the fiasco that was Barcelona, with Charles starting from pole, leading the race comfortably for the first 25 laps just to be forced to retire due to engine issues and myself finishing in P8 after I struggled with the set-up of the car during the whole weekend. I wasn’t really excited for Monaco next. I loved the track and even managed to win the sprint race back in F2 all those years ago. But as it was Charles’ home race, for him it was always the most exciting race of the year, he loved it. The track, the city, the people. But there was also the infamous Monaco-curse. Although Charles said he doesn’t believe in it, I wasn’t so sure about it. As we arrived in Monaco on Tuesday in the morning, our moods weren’t the best and the thought of having now a conversation with Charles about the bed situation made my anxiety level rise dangerously. Charles rolled our suitcases into the bedroom and I stood in the hallway, gathering myself. Open communication. That’s what Dr. Lindner said. I had to just tell Charles honestly how I felt. I could do that. It’s Charles after all. He would understand. Right? Right! I took one last deep breath, then I followed Charles into his bedroom.

"Charles, can we talk?" my voice sounded weak and I cleared my throat.

"Sure, what’s up?" Charles looked up from

the floor where he rummaged through his suitcase. He saw the look on my face and got up, grabbing my hands "Do you want to sit down? What’s going on? You know you can tell me everything?" he lead us to the bed and I stopped abruptly.

"You bought a new bed?" I was shocked when I looked at the new bed frame.

"I overheard a little of your therapy session, I’m so sorry, cara mia! I swear I didn’t intend to! I thought you were done and left the kitchen to talk to you but then you continued and as I silently retreated into the bedroom I overheard what you said and thought about what it could mean… and as soon as I realised it, I made sure that you won’t have to sleep in that bed ever again! I know this was only the easy part… but I want you to know, that I would do everything for you!" he said and I looked at him with big eyes, my breathing hitched. A single tear streaming down my face, that Charles gently wiped away, I sniffled a little and he hugged me close to his body.

"You bought a new bed…" I repeated.

"I would buy a new flat for you, if you couldn’t stand being in here…" he whispered and the tears now fell freely. Charles kissed the side of my head and rubbed soft circles on my back as I started giggling, thinking about his words "What?" he turned me a little so that he could look at my face.

"Did you pour that water bottle on purpose over your mattress?" I asked and Charles chuckled a little.

"Like I said, I would do everything for you!" he whispered.

"I love you… so, so much!" I said and Charles laid a soft kiss on my forehead.

"I love you too, mon amour!"

"People won’t think it’s weird that I stay at your place during race weekend?" I asked Charles.

"No? You’re always staying here when you’re in Monaco! Not weird at all!" Charles answered and switched off the light in his en suite bathroom, then plopped down next to me on his stomach.

"Ok, ok… you’re right!" I sighed and turned on my side to face him. "Hi… how are we feeling about this weekend?" Charles smiled a little and I looked him up and down. He was only wearing grey sweatpants and I started drawing figures on his back with my fingers, I could feel him relax under my touch.

"The car is good. You’re here in my bed. I can’t really lose this weekend." he mumbled and wiggled closer to me.

"So no fear of the Monaco curse this year?" I chuckled and Charles groaned.

"It’s getting out of hand with how often they ask me about it!" he sat up and ruffled through his hair "It’s no curse when I’m at fault for the results! I have to be better this year, there is no room for mistakes!"

I pulled him down on me and he rested his head on my chest, then slung his arms around me.

"You will win this year, pretty boy. I can feel it!" I said quietly, underneath my breath and began to massage his scalp gently. I could see the goosebumps erupt on his skin, his body relaxing into mine, his breathing getting more evenly and quiet, then a little yawn "My sleepy koala." I whispered and could hear his quiet chuckle, after another minute he lifted himself up, holding himself above me with his hands propped up at both sides of my head.

He looked me in the eyes, his smile widening, it was that smile that always made me weak in my knees, my insides melting, body tingling, and I felt myself blushing. He chuckled again and kissed me long enough to drain every bit of oxygen out of my lungs, then he pushed himself up and laid down next to me.

"Come on now pretty girl! We need to rest! It’s media day tomorrow" with that he pulled me into his side and threw the duvet over us, then he turned to the side to switch the light off. I snuggled into his side, head buried in his chest, leg slung around his "I really could get used to this, cara mia." he whispered before giving me one last kiss on the crown of my head.

After the media day we returned back home from the paddock and I had a quick shower. I laid down on the sofa, scrolling through my phone, but after a while I was reading the same page over and over again as because my mind was occupied by Charles. How he sat at the piano, playing a beautiful melody. He was so focused, his fingers dancing over the keys, eyes closed. He looked ethereal. I abandoned my book and just kept on looking at him, listening to his beautiful song.

"I can feel you staring…" Charles chuckled after a while and I sat up. I laid the book on the table and got up, standing behind him. I leaned down on his shoulders and watched him play a melody I heard him play for a while now "Do you like it?"

"I love it!" I whisper and kiss the side of his head and he turns a little.

"Come here." he said and pulled me down on his lap "I’ll teach you…" he laid my hands on the keyboard and guided my hands over the keys, playing the melody from before, slightly off key. With every minute it sounded better and better and Charles decided to take his hands off of mine and I played alone. He began to litter my face with little kisses, starting at my cheek, going down my jaw, then gently tilting my head, exposing my neck and throat where he continued the gentle caressing. Focusing on the piano got harder with each light kiss. I lost myself in his touch and a shriek sound from the piano startled me. I blushed immediately and Charles chuckled "I thought women were masters of multitasking?" he turned my reddened face to look at him and cocked an eyebrow.

"We are, but there are only a few things, that can meddle with it… and you are one of them…" I answered and he smiled, then he pulled me closer, biting his lower lip before he closed the distance between us and pressed his lips onto mine. They were soft and warm. I sighed a little, parting my lips slightly, allowing him to slip his tongue inside. I felt hot, a stirring began in my lower belly. A tiny moan escaped my throat and Charles smirked into our kiss, gently pulling away. I was breathing erratically, cheeks flushed, heart racing. And he just smirked, happy with the effect he had on me.

"Are you okay?" his smug smirk only getting bigger "Cara mia?" he nudged my nose with his a little and smiled, I got up, legs slightly wobbly, but I tried my best to not show it.

"Yup. All good." I breathed out and plopped down on the sofa again, grabbing my phone, trying to calm myself down a little. Charles started to play his melody again and I took a deep breath. I scrolled through some reels and had to stop as I saw one of a girl playing piano. The song she was playing was one of my absolute favourite songs and I looked up at Charles. I googled for the notes and as I found them I put my phone down, watching Charles again.

"And you’re staring again…" he said and I laughed "You want another lesson?" he looked at me, not stopping to play.

"Nope. But I was wondering… can you learn any song?" I asked him and he thought for a moment.

"Probably… why?" he replied and I beamed at him "Oh… what comes now?" he stopped playing and turned on the stool, facing me.

"Would you learn a song for me?" I asked, channeling my sweetest voice.

"Depends… what song?" he said and as my smile grew bigger he groaned "No."

"I didn’t even say what song!" I pouted.

"Taylor Swift… No." he said and I made puppy eyes, pouting even more.

"Oh come on! You said yourself that her music is nice! Which is like the understatement of the century, but I let it slip… but pleeeaaaseee! Please, Charles! For me!" I almost begged and I knew that his resolve was already crumbling.

"Yeah, her music is good. But you know that I’m not playing pop songs and stuff like that! I stay on the classical side, cara mia!" he said and I got up, still pouting, puppy eyes on full display. I straddled him, carding my fingers through his hair. Kissing him slowly. Breathing each other in.

"Please, mon cœur…" I whispered into his ear, leaving tiny kisses just below it, I saw the goosebumps erupting and kissed his jawline "Please…" I saw Charles Adam’s apple bop in his throat and he swallowed hard, as I left light kisses along. I gently rolled my hips against his pelvis and his breathing hitched. He grabbed my waist with both hands, trying to stop my movement "Only one song…" I whispered in his ear, pressing my whole body against his. I felt him shuddering and his grip on my waist got stronger. I raked my nails down his neck over his shoulders, rolling my hips against his tight hold. "That’s all I’m asking…" I sucked at his pulse point, leaving a tiny mark and he groaned.

"One song…" he answered breathlessly and I smiled at him, I could feel his heart beating against my breast and he closed his eyes "Which one?"

"One of my favourite songs… Lover." I said quietly and he nodded slightly, opening his eyes.

"I try my best." he answered and my smile got wider, I sat up a little and froze, his grip on my waist tightening again "Stop moving." he whispered under his breath and I even stopped breathing "Just give me a moment, please." he almost whimpered, the sound sending a heatwave through my throbbing core "Can you get up, please? Slowly…" he pressed out between clenched teeth and I nodded, carefully lifting myself up, the outline of a bulge between his legs clearly visible.

"I umm… I’m going to… umm kitchen. I’ll cook. Yeah… what do you want? Pasta with Pesto and Chicken? Or Salmon?"

"You decide… I need to…" he said and got up quickly, leaving the room. I took a deep breath, feeling more than hot all over. In the kitchen I leaned against the counter and closed my eyes. Trying to calm down a little. As my knees stopped shaking and my breathing wasn’t as ragged as before, I opened the fridge, grabbing the chicken and some veggies. As I prepared our food, Charles stepped into the kitchen, hugging me from behind.

"All good again?" I had to giggle and Charles kissed my shoulder.

"Yup. But just so you know… you’re a tease… and I’ll have my revenge!" with one last kiss on my cheek he left "I’m learning your song now…"

"I can’t wait!"

As we made our way into the paddock on Sunday morning, the buzzing atmosphere was overwhelming. It always warmed my heart to see the support and love Charles received from his fellow Monegasques. But today there were a lot of people cheering for me as well. As we arrived at the paddock entry two little girls were screaming for Charles and me and we walked over to them.

"Oh my god! It’s really you! Charles! Lizzie!" one of the girls screeched.

"You are the best! We love you two! Can you sign our caps?" the second one beamed up at us and we crouched down, the girls blushing a little.

"Thank you so much!" Charles said and signed their caps, then handing them to me, to sign them.

"Can we take a picture as well?" they asked shyly and I nodded.

"Of course!" I said and the girls squeezed in between us and their mother snapped a picture. And the older girl grabbed the phone from her Mum to check the picture.

"You’re so pretty, Lizzie!" she said, showing us the picture and I blushed a little. Charles looked at the picture and smiled.

"Wow! Look at that! How lucky am I to be in a picture with 3 of the most beautiful girls on earth?" he said and the girls beamed at him.

"I hope you can win today! And Lizzie I hope you’re on the podium as well!" the younger one said and looked up at Charles.

"I will try my best! And I know Lizzie will as well! Maybe she’ll win!" he said and I laughed.

"No, no. She’s right! You win, I’m on the podium. That’s a good result." I said and the girls nodded.

"Good luck you two!" they said and we hugged them goodbye.

"That would be a dream result. You win. Me on the podium? I’d take that!" I chuckled as we made our way into the paddock.

"Yeah. Same. But realistically… I don’t know…" Charles sighed and I grabbed his hand, squeezing it.

"Hey! You can do it! You’re fast! You’re amazing at the start! That’s all it takes! And your team not screwing up. But still! Come on! Today is our day!" I said and Charles smiled a little.

"If you say so!" he answered and we kept on walking, hands still intertwined "Oh shit! Sorry!" he let go of my hand and I smiled sadly.

"No, it’s okay. It was nice to hold hands once in public." I chuckled a little. "I’m sorry!"

"Don’t be… it’s okay!" he said and stopped in front of the Ferrari garage "See you later, mon amour." he pulled me into a short hug.

"Yeah… see you later!" I said and walked down to the Audi garage, preparing for the race ahead.

"Lizzie, your first Monaco GP! Tell us, how does it feel? How do you feel?" Martin Brundle appeared out of the blue next to me "First in F1, of course!" he added and I smiled at him.

"It’s different, you know? Different cars, faster cars obviously, different race distance, yeah overall it’s been a good weekend for us, we had a good pace, tires were good. The weather can be a factor. It might rain towards the middle or end, we’ll see what we can do today."

"What does it take, to attack Max today and go for P1?"

"Well, get past Charles first, chase Max, second!" I laughed.

"Yeah, obviously get past Charles first! Thanks Lizzie, have a good race!" Martin chuckled and walked away.

After yesterdays qualifying I was quiet confident, without that stupid yellow flag I might’ve had a chance on P2, Charles on pole, but instead it’s P3 for me and P2 for Charles, Max in front of us. Overtaking was almost impossible in Monaco. It was all down to position, the strategy and gambling of the possibility of a safety car.

I leaned over my car and patted the 7 on its nose, as I always did before every race.

"Ah, old habits never die, you also did it in karting!" I heard Max say in German and turned around.

"Monaco is not the track to try and risk something." I answered and he laughed.

"On a scale from 1-10, how furious is he?" Max asked and shook his head in the direction of the Ferrari in front to our right.

"Where would you be?" I looked at him and tilted my head.

"12. Definitely!" he shot back and I nodded.

"Given the fact that he’s a bit more tame than you, I’d say 11. It was fucked, like come on! 50 metres? Yellow flag in the second sector? He had all purples…" I said as Charles turned his head and looked at Max and me.

"78 laps to take the win!" he answered and walked up to his car, on his way he and Charles fist bumped each other and they started to talk.

"Lizzie?" Felix walkd up to me "How are we feeling?"

"Confident! The car felt good. I’ll give my all, as always!" I say determined and Felix hugged me, before he made his way to Valtteri first and then the pit wall. I took a sip out of my bottle when someone poked my side.

"Hey!" Charles said and I turned around, he hugged me with a clap on my back, a bro hug as Charles calls it.

"Ready, Leclerc?" I asked as I saw a tv crew passing us, he recognised them as well and nodded.

"Always, Lizzie, always." he answered and squeezed my shoulder before he gave me another one of his bro hugs "Take care, cara mia!" he whispered in my ear, his warm breathing tickling my skin.

"You too, mon cœur." I smiled and he walked away, right as Pete came over.

"The rain might come earlier than expected, lap 45-50 probably, we’ll keep an eye on it, but just so you know." he said and I nodded.

"Rain as in droplets or rain as in downpour?" I asked and tucked my braids into my racing suit and moved my head around to check that they’re not disturbing me, as I was happy with the adjusting I put my headphones in and next my balaclava on.

"No downpour, but definitely more than droplets. The rain radar shows some heavy clouds, but they might pass us, if the wind gets stronger. We consider a second pit for inters. We’ll update you." he squeezed my shoulder and left. I took one last sip out of my bottle, giving it back to JK who handed me my helmet in return and I put it on, opening the visor, he adjusted the straps and the HANS.

I stepped to my car and climbed in, my mechanics buckled me in, adjusted the headrest, plugged in the radio and put in my steering wheel. Lastly they handed me my gloves and I put them on. Matt gave me a thumbs up and I tested everything out, then I nodded and gave him as well a thumbs up.

"Radio check." I heard Pete and pushed the radio button.

"Loud and clear." I replied.

The grid emptied slowly and I could see my mechanics preparing themselves to take off the heating blankets.

As the grid was ready, the heating blankets came off, revealing everyone’s tire choices, myself on medium, then the formation lap started and I began to warm the tires.

As soon as we all got back into our spots again I focused on the lights above, hearing Croftys commentary in my head as always "…and it’s lights out and away we go!" I accelerated, Charles in front of me had a phenomenal start and sets Max under a lot of pressure and then even managed to breeze past him, I was more than happy for him. Hoping he had finally a good home race.

Lap by lap I managed to close the gap to Max. Charles, who had more pace than ever as it seemed, stayed ahead of Max with a comfortable gap.

"Lizzie, front tires look good. Spare the rears a bit more."

"Copy. Gaps?"

"P1 to P2 1.6. P2 to P3 0.7"

"Alright." Radio silence again.

Overtaking in Monaco was mostly impossible, the only potential part of the track where I might had a chance was at the chicane, so I tried to squeeze past Max but he defended the attack lap after lap.

"Lizzie, Gap to P4 currently 1.3. Try to push more."

"When I push more I kiss Maxs ass!"

"Don’t."

"Left front doesn’t look good."

"Having a bit of graining. We‘ll keep tabs."

"Stay out?"

"For now."

"Copy."

The next few laps were uneventful. Some more failed attempts to pass Max, Charles gap getting bigger, mine to Max smaller. The rest of the grid far behind as it seemed. I passed through sector two as a yellow flag in sector 1 was shown.

I pushed the radio button.

"PSF?" Potential safety car.

"We‘re checking."

"Ok." I took the next corner, only 2 left before the pit entry, if we make the right call and box before the safety car is officially deployed. We get ahead of Charles and Max if they decide to pit a lap later, one last corner before the entry.

"Box, Box." Hopefully the right call. I steered into the pit lane. The only car for now.

Pit stop 2.3 seconds. Pretty good. I pushed the throttle and right as I’m at the pit lane exit the virtual safety car message appeared on my screen.

"Fucking amazing! Good job guys!"

"You’ll get out behind Russell in P6."

"Alright. Go time."

I entered the track again and as predicted the cars in front of me pitted in the next lap and I was leading the race.

"So Charles behind 1.8. Max behind 1.1."

Could this be my first GP win? Monaco? The most prestigious race on the calendar? And more importantly, could this be Charles' first podium at his home race? Fuck yes.

The next laps Charles came closer and closer. But he never tried to attack, too big of a risk. P2 was better than a DNF.

"Big shunt in sector 3. Lot‘s of Debris. Careful."

Double yellow. In front of me Tsunoda and Latifi, Magnusson in the wall. As the two drivers passed him they drove over some debris and the parts were flying through the air and I felt some hits. I pushed the radio button.

"There’s debris everywhere, I think as Latifi and Tsunoda went through something flew up and hit me."

"Copy. We Check and come back to you."

"Is Kevin ok?"

"Yes, he’s ok."

Safety car through the pitlane.

As I followed the safety car I felt something loose at my thigh but then it was gone. I moved my leg slightly but couldn’t feel anything.

"Prepare for the restart, Lizzie."

"Yeah."

Another 6 laps in and I again felt something loose at my legs and I pushed the radio button.

"I think there is something loose between my legs, guys."

"What do you mean?"

"I felt something at my thigh. Do I have damage?"

"We’re checking."

I waited patiently for Pete’s radio message and kept driving.

"No damage. Keep pushing."

"Alright. Copy."

I still wasn’t convinced but tried to get it out of my mind.

"We’re expecting rain in the next 5-10 minutes."

"Inters?"

"We’ll wait for your input."

"Ok."

"Full stat?"

"You. P2 Max. P3 Sainz. P4 Charles. P9 Seb. Out Magnussen. Tsunoda. Latifi. 27 laps to go." I gulp, Charles was in P2 behind me? How did he end up in P4?

"What happened to Charles?"

"He had to pit again."

"Why?"

"They gave him the wrong tires."

"Fuck off."

"Lizzie."

"Yeah, sorry."

Fucking Ferrari compromised Charles’ race yet again. From Podium to P4. I couldn’t even describe how sorry I felt for him. I just knew he would only blame himself after the race, he still could’ve drove faster and try to overtake or some shit like that. He would never criticise Ferrari, he loved his team too fucking much. But at this point they've failed him one too many times and worst of all, out of all places it had to be here, at his home GP.

It slightly started dripping.

"Go for two laps in mode R62. Rain out of turn 7."

The track got slightly wet, but the traction was still good.

"Inters. What do you think?"

"Traction is pretty good. Track is not too wet. Do others pit?"

"Not yet."

"Copy."

The traction was still considerably good, despite some wet patches on track. Would it keep on raining like this, I thought I could manage without inters. But if the rain picked up, staying out would be impossible.

"Rain picks up slightly between turn 2 and 3."

"Let me try it."

"Copy."

Up the hill the rain did pick up indeed a little and I could feel the track got a bit slippery, but still manageable. The track seemed to be dry besides between the turns 2 and 5.

"Where would I come out if I pit?"

"Between Norris and Ricciardo."

"How’s the rain?"

"Picks up slightly, but according to the radar only couple more minutes."

"Then more or?"

"Should clear up in about 5 laps, but still one more dark cloud front coming up, earliest prob last 5-6 laps.”

"Ok."

With around 20 laps to go, should I risk it and stay out, if I risked it and the rain gets too much at the end of the race I’m fucked. If I pit and the rain comes after the race, I’m stuck behind.

"Box Max, Norris, Daniel, Pierre."

"Ferrari?"

"No."

They gonna risk it, they would have two cars behind me, if the rain picks up they could try an undercut. As I drove up the hill to turn 2 I could see that the sky looked not dark and grey. It cleared up. I took a deep breath and pushed my radio button.

"I’ll stay out."

"Copy."

Please, dear god or whatever is up there, let this be the right call.

"Ferrari called for a double stack."

Great, even more that they could fuck up.

Charles would lose even more time and positions and with only 16 laps to go, the podium was lost.

"Charles stayed out."

"What?"

"P2 Charles, P3 Perez, P4 Max, P6 Seb."

Did he ignore his team’s orders? Holy shit.

As I looked in my mirror I saw him coming out of the chicane. On any other track we could battle this out. But here it was just too dangerous unfortunately. Even though a P2 would be Charles’ best result ever in Monaco, he would see the checkered flag for the first time here, I knew that he would still be disappointed. Winning his home Grand Prix was his biggest wish, a really close second after winning the WDC. And wouldn’t they delete his lap time yesterday, he would’ve started from pole. He could’ve won. No, he would’ve won. If the clownery that was Ferrari wasn’t spitting in his soup yet again.

"How’s the track?"

"Good. Almost dry only out of turn 4 into 5 slightly wet."

"Seems to be your lucky day. Heavier rain estimated 15-20 minutes after the race. 11 laps to go."

Now I just had to calmly manage the tires and all was good. My first win in Formula 1! In Monaco! Monaco. Charles. After so many disappointing races. Still one step away from his dream. One step away from the promise he gave his father, winning his home race for him. And all because his team let him down, once again.

"Lizzie, keep pushing. Charles is catching up. 0.9."

"Alright."

"You’re at 71 % on the throttle."

"Pete, I push it through."

"We’re checking."

Radio silence, I could see Charles coming closer as I’m slightly getting slower.

"Change to mode FX98. FX98."

"Something’s wrong. I push the throttle fully."

"Just keep pushing. Gap to Charles 0.7. 7 laps to go."

Still getting slower, Charles came closer than ever. Something has to be wrong, right?

"Guys what’s happening?"

"Lizzie, we’re checking. Just keep…"

"I AM PUSHING. But there’s just nothing fucking happening!"

"Understood."

Charles was practically at my ass now. I pushed the radio button.

"Am I losing power?" I asked.

"Negative. You’re not losing power."

"Why is the car so slow when I’m pushing the throttle as hard as I can? I’m breaking out of the car that’s how hard I’m pushing!"

"Throttle now only at 67 %"

"FUCK!"

"4 laps to go. Charles behind 0.2 seconds."

As I steered into the chicane I knew he was going for the overtake, he had the speed and I couldn’t do anything at this point, so I let him pass me, without defending. He speeded away.

"2 laps to go, Gap to Perez 1.6 seconds."

"SD?" Striking distance.

"2."

I pushed the throttle through and the next 2 laps were the longest of my life. As I parked my car next to Charles’ I leaned back for a second. P2 in Monaco is amazing. Charles deserved this win more than anything. I unbuckled my belt took the steering wheel off and put it on the bonnet. Then I stood up and felt something fall back from where seconds before my feet were, I spot the carbon part in my seat. I leaned down, took my steering wheel to put it back in, at the same time I took the carbon part and threw it back to the pedals and jumped off the car. I turned around and saw that Charles was still in his car. I took my gloves off and walked up to him. As soon as he saw me he quickly got out and embraced me. I only pushed him toward his team as I walked up to mine, opening the visor of my helmet and jumped into them.

"Sorry Lizzie!" Felix looked disappointed, but not in me, in the car.

"There was something loose! I swear I could feel it." I said and hugged him "P2 in Monaco! Fucking good result, I’d say!"

I hugged everyone before I walked up for my weighing. After that I took off my helmet and balaclava, grabbed a towel and put my helmet down, then I dried my face and neck. Liam cheered from the top of his lungs for me and Charles and I walked up to him and Dad, hugging him tight.

"You almost won, Lizzie!" he almost yelled and I kisser his cheek. "And Charlie won! He won!"

"Yes he did! Isn’t he amazing!" I smiled and Liam waved Charles who immediately joined us, Liam practically jumping into his arms.

"YOU WON, CHARLIE! YOU WON!" Liam screeched and I laughed as Dad pulled me into a hug.

"You did amazing, Lizzie!" he whispered and I smiled, hugging Lorenzo and Arthur next.

"Amazing race, Lizzie!" Lorenzo said and Arthur only nodded.

"Good job!" Arthur smiled and I looked at Pascale, tears in her eyes.

"Oh Lizzie! Congratulations!" she sniffled a little as she held me close.

"Merci, Pascale! You can be proud today. Charles did amazing!" I smiled at her and be wiped away some tears.

"I am proud, mon fille! I’m proud of both of you!" she said and I smiled.

I made space for Charles, who still carried Liam and went back to the tables in front of our cars, grabbing a bottle of water.

"Congrats Lizzie! Good race!" Checo walked up and he patted my back and I smiled at him.

"Thanks Checo, you too!" I replied as Charles walked up to us. I smiled at him and almost jump led in his arms, but could stop myself, instead I hugged him tight.

"You did it, Charlie! You did it! I’m so proud!" I whispered and I heard him sigh.

"You let me win, Lizzie." he pushed himself off of me and smiled, but I could see it wasn’t real. He walked away to do his interview and I stood there dumbfounded. Throughout his interview he had a fake smile and always when he looked my way his smile hardened. Then it was my turn and I had to pull myself together, trying not to think about what Charles said.

"Lizzie, congrats on P2! Phenomenal race! You made some good strategy calls!"

"Thanks! Yeah it was an amazing race, we had a strong weekend, both cars in the points. Overall a good result. As for the strategy, my team is amazing! Shout out to our strategists!"

"You made some good calls yourself!"

"Yeah but only because they give me the confidence to do that."

"But what happened at the end? It looked like a safe win?"

"I really don’t know, we need to check if I maybe had damage at the car from some of the flying debris from Kevin’s crash. But it felt weird."

"You reported twice before that you felt something loose between your legs?"

"Yeah, that wasn’t just a pun to Seb, it really felt like there was something moving around but we need to investigate what happened."

"Thanks Lizzie, enjoy the podium!"

"Thanks!" I gave back the mic and followed Julie, who waited already for me as Sebastian approached.

“Lizzie! What a race! I’m so proud of you!" Sebastian cheered in German and hugged me.

"Thanks, Seb!" I answered.

"Almost your first win!" he said and sighed but I only shook my head and smiled.

"Yeah almost, but a win in Monaco for Charles? After last year? He deserves it so much!" I couldn’t help myself and practically beamed and Seb just cocked his eyebrow knowingly and I chuckled nervous "What?” I asked an Seb just hugged me again.

"It’s good that you two finally realised that you’re meant to be! I told him so many times to make a move, back when we were teammates!" he whispered in my ear and I tensed up "Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me for as long as you want it to be!" he released me and left smiling.

Julie came up to me, ushering me towards the cool down room, where Charles already was waiting, sitting in the chair for the second place.

"I believe you’re in the wrong chair…” I said and walked up to the table with the cap for P2, towels and water. I put my helmet down, grabbed a towel and dried my face off agin, then my neck. I used my visor as a mirror and loosened my braids, smoothing my hair down. Then I grabbed a bottle of water and the P2 cap and walked up to the chairs. Charles didn’t move so I sat next to him on a box, not on one of the chairs for the drivers.

"What are you doing?" he asked in French.

"Oh, so now you’re talking to me?"I answered in French as well "I’m not sitting in P1 and jinx it!" I continued in English and Charles got off of his chair and pulled me up, then pushed me gently into the P2 chair as Checo walked in.

"What a race!" he exclaimed and grabbed a towel and a bottle of water, then sat down in the P3 chair, Charles still standing "They gave you the wrong tires?" he then asked Charles who only nodded.

"Yeah, they gave me softs, planned were hards." he answered and I snorted, but was able to turn it into a cough. "But yeah like this I could go on the mediums again, so I had more pace, not really helpful in Monaco but you never know." Checo nodded.

"You ignored your team orders? When they wanted to do a double stack?" I asked Charles and he shook his head.

"I didn’t understand the radio at first… but I said I think they want me to pit for inters but I want to stay out." he answered "What was with your car? You didn’t put up any fight whatsoever? You just let me pass you!" the last part sounded accusing.

"I don’t know what it was, I felt something loose between my legs before, I thought I had damage from flying debris or something? But they said there was nothing wrong but I don’t know! I pushed the throttle completely through, more and my foot would break out of the car… they need to check what that was before the next race!" I said but Charles wasn’t fully convinced "I want them to run all the tests that we have.”

I tried to reassure him, that this race win was really his, that I tried my hardest to win. The car was lagging. After almost a minute of him looking at me, my every move, he nodded and sat down in P1. I convinced him.

Charles POV:

I stood on the podium, Lizzie on my right, beaming up on me, her cheeks flushed, wide smile on her lips. She looked gorgeous and I would give everything that I owned to kiss her right here, right now. But her smile was enough to make my stomach flutter, my body tingling. I won Monaco. My home race. After so many tries. So many failures. Today I finally made it. And to make this day even more memorable, Lizzie, the most beautiful, enchanting girl, love of my life, stood next to me. Celebrating this milestone. I closed my eyes, taking a moment to fully grasp what just happened. This win was for Dad. For our beloved home. His voice rang in the back of my head, telling me that one day I would win our home race and all of the principality would cheer for me and he would be the loudest amongst them. I could see his face in front of me, his smile, the wrinkles around his eyes, the glasses that were always sliding down his nose and he had to push it back with his finger, his messy hair. I opened my eyes, feeling overwhelmed, throat closing in, eyes teary and as the Monegasque anthem was played, tears began to fall. I looked down and saw Maman, Lorenzo, Arthur, Juergen and Liam smiling proudly at me.

"Congratulations, Charles! Today you’re making yourself immortal! We’re all so proud of you!" Prince Albert hugged me tight, smiling bright as he handed me the trophy.

"Thank you so much!" I replied as he stepped back and I lifted the trophy up above my head, pointing with my other hand in the sky. For Papa. For Jules. I watched as Lizzie lifted her trophy up as well, smiling at me. As soon as all trophies were handed over, it was time for the champagne. Les Toréadors played and I sprayed Lizzie from head to toe, while Checo poured a large amount of champagne over my head and I flinched as the cold liquid trickled down neck into my race suit. We cheered our bottle together, all taking a swig of champagne and then it was time for a picture. I pulled Lizzie close to my side, brushing away some wet strands of her hair, that were sticking to her face and she smiled brightly at me. I felt her love and adoration radiating from her.

"He is so proud of you, Charles!" Lizzie leaned in, whispering in my ear and I choked up a little, she kissed my cheek, a tingling sensation spreading across my skin where her lips had touched me. She then gently wiped away a stray tear that was running down my cheek and I smiled at her. I won my home race. I had the girl of my dreams. Could it get any better than this?

"And you really don’t want to go out and party? Charles, you won the Monaco GP? Your home race?" I asked him laying in his bed, I watched him drying his hair with a towel, another one slung around his hips, body glistening with little droplets of water.

"Do you want to party? We can go out if you want to! But I much rather stay at home and celebrate here, just you and me, a bottle of champagne, maybe watching a movie?" he answered and stepped in front of the bed, I got up on my knees and hugged him. After a moment, he leaned back and kissed me, first slowly and sweet, his hand at the small of my back and at my nape. Our body’s pressed together, the kiss intensified. Only when we were both running out of air we pulled away a little and leaned our foreheads together.

"Nope, this is perfect." I whispered and Charles chuckled. I got up and walked into the bathroom, closed the door and took a deep breath. I felt hot, a quick cold shower would help, when I brushed my teeth I realised that I had forgotten to take my fresh clothes with me, I sighed, putting my hair into a messy bun, wrapped the towel around my body and opened the door. Charles, now in sweatpants and t-shirt, sat on the bed against the headboard shuffling through Netflix as he looked up at me, a smile on his face. I felt my cheeks blushing.

"I forgot my clothes…" I whispered and pointed at the pile on the drawer and he just nodded, as I walked over, took it and went back into the bathroom, where I quickly changed and then walked out "So, what are we watching?"

"You decide, I just want to hold you close and I’m happy." Charles said and I blushed again and he grinned "God Lizzie, I love when you blush like that…" he got up from the bed and walked over to me, putting his hands on my waist, pulling me close and I shuddered "Are you cold?"

"No, it’s just, you make me, I don’t know how to explain… but when you look at me like this, I’m like… I’m getting nervous…" I whispered and looked down and tried to hide my intense blushing, Charles gently grabbed my chin and lifted my head up to look at him.

"Hey, hey… please, don’t hide from me." he said quietly and smiled at me "What’s going on in that pretty head of yours?"

"It’s embarrassing…" I tried to look away but he cupped my cheeks, looking at me.

"What is embarrassing? You know you can talk to me about everything? So what’s going on?" Charles asked and his voice was so genuine and sweet that I closed my eyes and took a deep breath.

"I’m… I’ve never done it…" I almost whispered it but Charles looked at me confused "I’m still a virgin…" my heart was beating in my throat, skin burning hot, as I looked down ashamed.

"Oh Lizzie, hey, look at me! Please!" Charles smiled at me encouraging "It’s nothing to be ashamed of!"

"I just, I don’t know, deep down I always wanted it to be you and… I don’t know, it’s silly because now that you and I… it’s just- umm… I’m scared because I- I don’t have any experience…" I mumbled and Charles pulled me into his arms.

"I wish I would’ve waited for you…" he sighed and I shook my head "But please, don’t feel ashamed and please don’t be scared! I mean I’m probably not the most experienced as well… but that doesn’t matter! It’s you and me. And no matter when it will happen, it will be perfect. So please don’t feel like to put yourself under pressure or anything! This what we have, it’s perfect, it’s amazing and when you’re ready for the next step, we’ll take it. Together. As always."

I smiled at him and kissed him, tried to show him how much his words meant to me.

"Why are you so perfect?" I whispered and he just chuckled.

"I’m by far not perfect, but I try to be the closest to perfect for you, because you, cara mia, are perfect and deserve it." he answered and by now my face was probably the shade of the darkest red possible.

"Charles, you are more than perfect, I just wished you could see it as well…" I said and kissed him again, slowly and sweet, but as Charles pulled me closer into him, his hands gently stroking my waist, I felt heat rushing into my core.

As he gently pulled away I chased after his lips again, sealing our lips together, fiery, exploring his mouth. My hands started travelling down his sides, gripping the hem of his t-shirt, slowly sneaking my fingers up his skin under it. I felt him shudder underneath my touch and pulled away from our kiss, giggling at his reaction.

"Are you laughing at me, pretty girl?" he whispered, brushing his warm lips over my ear. Now I shuddered and he chuckled slightly. I turned my head, leaving little kisses along his jaw, my fingers running up his back, leaving goosebumps in the process. As I pulled him even closer into me, my breathing hitched as I felt his hard length pressing against my stomach. I slowly pulled away, only to look Charles in the eyes "That’s what you’re doing to me, Lizzie" he pulled me back in, nuzzled his nose in my hair and inhaled deeply "You’re driving me crazy…" I tugged at his t-shirt, making Charles now pushing himself off of me, cocking an eyebrow. I bit my lips, nervously pulling his shirt over his head, revealing his muscular, well proportioned upper body. My hands trailing over his hard chest, down his abs to the hem of his sweatpants, his growing bulge clearly visible. I looked up at him, his eyes full of lust and passion. He captured my lips in a mind blowing kiss, devouring each little sound I made, my body started trembling, heat waves crashing down on me. He held my waist in a strong grip, playing with the hem of my shirt and I nodded. Charles understood and slowly pulled it up, breaking away from our kiss only to let the fabric pass over my head. His eyes wandered down for a moment before they landed back on mine "God, you’re beautiful." He pulled me back into him, our naked chests colliding. Feeling his hard body pressed into mine, I moaned quietly, feeling arousal pooling in my core. He kissed me again, this time more aggressive, messy, his chest heaving. I grabbed his shoulders, to steady myself, rubbing my sweaty palms over his bare skin. I felt myself becoming more eager, hungry even and tangled my hands in his hair, pulling him even closer. I trailed one hand down his chest, over his groin, carefully rubbing his hardened length. Charles groaned into our kiss, pulling away, huffing loud "I can’t control myself if you keep doing that." he muttered under his breath as I kept on rubbing, making him groan even louder.

"Then don’t…" I answered and he looked at me for a moment.

"Are you sure? We can wait, cara mia…" he whispered but I just nodded.

"I love you, Charles… and I’m more than sure."

"I love you too, Lizzie…" he kissed my forehead and my heart swelled at this sweet and sincere gesture. I took a deep breath, pulling his sweatpants down, freeing him from his confines, eyes widening "I’ll be gentle, pretty girl."

————————————————————————

Little Note:

Chapter 17 and we’re racing in Monaco, baby! Giving Charles that win was more than amazing, let’s manifest it, so that we can watch our favourite Monegasque lift that trophy up IRL!

Please leave a comment/ like/ reblog/ message and tell me how you liked it! I'm dying to hear your thoughts!

If you want to be added to the taglist, drop a comment!

Last but not least, English is not my first language and although I tried my best: please excuse any mistakes I made!

Taglist:

@silkenthusiasts @eugene-emt-roe @sunny44 @itsjustkhaos @glitterquadricorn @aundercover @kakorrhaphiphobia @alittlebitofbooksandmagic @ru-kru @glitterf1 @janeholt3 @maeve-wileyy @18754389 @

All the images I’m using are from Google, Pinterest and Instagram (or self made).

[caffiene-fueled-fuckery]

M*A*S*H Cards Against Humanity - Round 1 Results!

Hello everyone! Thanks so much for participating in the first round of M*A*S*H Cards Against Humanity!! Sorry that the last few rounds took forever to come out, school got super busy.

Here are the winners from each question:

Q1. Instead of coal, Santa now gives the bad children _______.

Read by: Hawkeye

Winner: A big, sloppy blowjob from a mean, tired cowboy

Given by: Colonel Potter

Q2. What sounds great after four margaritas?

Read by: BJ

Winner: Creamy slices of real, California avocado

Given by: Klinger

Q3. Why are you so short?

Read by: Radar

Winner: The government 

Given by: Charles

Q4. What totally destroyed my asshole?

Read by: Charles

Winner: Women in positions of power

Given by: Margaret

Q5. Unfortunately, no one can be told what ___________ is. You have to experience it for yourself. 

Read by: Klinger

Winner: The cutest fucking shoes I’ve ever seen

Given by: Margaret

Q6. Here’s a little something I learned in business school- The customer is always ___________.

Read by: Colonel Potter

Winner: A real job with insurance and your taxes taken out and everything

Given by: Father Mulcahy

Q7. What would grandma find disturbing, yet oddly charming?

Read by: Kellye

Winner: A tiny, gay guitar called a ukulele

Given by: BJ

Q8. It’s late at night. You’re in bed with your lover, Patrick Stewart. He leans over with a twinkle in his eye and asks “How about ______?”

Read by: Margaret

Winner: Setting boundaries with co-workers

Given by: Charles

Q9. I so drunk I __________.

Read by: Father Mulcahy

Winner: Repression

Given by: Hawkeye

Q10. This is the way the world ends. This is the way the world ends. Not with a bang but with ____________.

Read by: Igor

Winner: Hot Lettuce

Given by: Hawkeye

Honourable mention to the runner up for Q10, losing by 1%...

2nd Place: Meatloaf, the man

Given by: Father Mulcahy

Tally:

Hawkeye: 2 BJ: 1 Radar: 0 Charles: 2 Klinger: 1 Colonel Potter: 1 Kellye: 0 Margaret: 2 Father Mulcahy: 1 Igor: 0

For Round 2... I'd like to add another character...

[mugram]

Shun and Daiki's Trial 1 Interrogation Questions

This is a list of all of Shun and Daiki's Interrogation Questions, with links to each question.

Q1 - Why did you choose your current workplace?

Q2 - What would you sacrifice your life for?

Q3 - Do you try to consider others?

Q4 - Would you commit the same crime?

Q5 - Old dream?

Q6 - Are there any prisoners that stick out?

Q7 - What’s your favorite book to read?

Q8 - Do you have a quote you live by?

Q9 - What does your family think of you?

Q10 - What skills does your job require?

Q11 - Have you ever wanted to apologize to someone you can no longer apologize to?

Q12 - Any regrets?

Q13 - Do you believe in past existences and fortune-telling?

Q14 - Who do you want to meet right now?

Q15 - Did anything happen in MUGRAM recently?

Q16 - How much do you have in your savings?

Q17 - Do you trust your morals?

Q18 - Which prisoner do you think resembles you the most?

Q19 - Are there people you’d be leaving behind after you die?

Q20 - Can you forgive the other prisoners’ murders?

[sunnyrosewritesstuff]

Ten Questions for Writers

I was tagged by @conkers-thecosy and now that I'm not rushing to get out updates I thought I would come back to do this! 🤩

Q1. how many works do you have on ao3?

Beneath the Oak Tree was my 58th work!

Q2. what's your total ao3 word count?

486,261

Q3. what fandoms do you write for?

Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, and Tintin is all that I've posted to AO3, but I'm looking to add a few more here come October.

Q4. do you respond to comments? why or why not?

I do! I try to anyways. 😅 I'm a bit slow, but honestly I do enjoy getting a chance to thank people for reading my work and my favorite is when I get to spew all these behind-the-scenes facts.

Q5. have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that I'm aware of.

Q6. have you ever cowritten a fic before?

Yes! I've done writer collabs with @thotinshield for our fics: What Happened in 30C and Secrets in the Blue Mountain Apartment. And another with @lordoftherazzles for our fic: They Stole My Heart (Along with the Rest of Him).

I actually love writer collabs! Looking forward to another this upcoming fall with the Hobbit: An Unexpected Collab event.

Q7. what's your all-time favorite ship?

I think anyone who has seen my AO3 page would understand it's Bagginshield. 😂

Q8. what are your writing strengths?

You know, I would have to say my sense of humor with my writing. I get compliments on it all the time, and seeing as there's literally not a single thing I write that doesn't have a smidge of humor (yes even smut and angst), that's what I'm going to have to go with. 😆

Q9. what are your writing weaknesses?

Bleh. These questions. Uhhhh, I don't feel like I do a good job of fleshing out a scene. I think sometimes I get very action driven or dialogue heavy and it's not until I go back later and read it that I realize it's very bare bones. So that's something I always have to work on.

Q10. first fandom you wrote for?

...Mario fandom, Daisy/Luigi. 🫣😂 Ah, yes. The early days of ff.net...🤣

Alright, let's see who to tag...@lucigoo @thotinshield @middleearthpixie @middleearthmama and @mordellestories but feel free to do it for yourself even if I didn't tag you! I love reading other people's answers.

[marchleader]

*hands Inno a stack of T2 question cards*

(Never mind that she's busy killing Cat over and over. That can wait.)

In some alternate universe where she never wandered into this world and her Inno's interrogation has finished:

Q1: What are your thoughts on the 1st trial results? A: Warden-sama has been very kind to me! I hope they continue to treat me fairly.

Q2: Do you believe you were loved? A: Why wouldn't I? God is with us right now.

Q3: State the name of your victim. A: There is no victim. Only those who were served punishment.

Q4: Is there a meaning behind your name? It conveys my parents' wish that "our faith will reach every corner of this world".

Q5: Is there a prisoner similar to you? A: I don't believe there to be.

Q6: Is there a prisoner you aren't fond of? A: Kotoko-san has been very destructive lately, and Shidou-san has been polluting this prison with his beliefs. I hope you are able to stop them soon.

Q7: What were your grades in school? A: I had no problems.

Q8: If you had to make one of the prisoners part of your family, who would you choose? A: I believe Mahiru-san's inherent goodness is an admirable trait.

Q9: What does love mean to you? A: What you have done to me.

Q10: What's your father's job? A: After working extremely hard, he became a lecturer. I am very proud of that.

Q11: Did you love the person you killed? A: I used to.

Q12: What do you think of Kajiyama Fuuta? A: I want to help him, but he does not want to listen to me.

Q13: If you could be reborn, would you still choose to be yourself? A: Obviously.

Q14: Do you like animals? A: I'm quite fond of them, do you want to learn more about them?

Q15: What are your thoughts on marriage? A: It's a vow to overcome trials together.

Q16: What are lies to you? A: Sin.

Q17: What do the people you respect think about your sin? A: I believe they'll think the same way you did.

Q18: When did you meet your first love? A: I haven't yet. They must be someone they've chosen for me.

Q19: Is there anything you wish your parents would have done? A: There are many things I wish they did. For one, I wish my mother followed through on her promise to our God.

Q20: How do you feel about you not being like everyone else? A: I'm glad that I was born as myself. Do you think I should feel otherwise?

[bigwishes]

Questions Answered

I have gotten quite a few questions in my ask inbox and DMs. a lot of them are a very similar vein and I haven’t answered them because been busy with the holidays. Now I have a bit of time I thought I’d smash some out (still feel free to DM me if these answers create more questions or you had one I didn’t answer)

Q1) Do you take roids/plan on taking roids? A1) No, and I don’t think I ever will. For a few reasons, 1 being I like the idea of being natty even if it means Ill never really reach my goal and 2 being my family already has some thinks like heart disseise that is genetic and I don’t really feel like dealing roids onto the table Q2) How long have you been working out/ Why didn’t you start earlier A2) consistently I have been working out for about a 8 months, although a lot of that has been learning what I am doing and studying form so I can push myself in 2023 without injury. As for why I didn’t start earlier I grew up in a remote community in the outback and we didn’t have a gym, I learnt what bodybuilding was about 18/19 and push ups only get you so far, but now I live closer to civilisation and am trying to get my grind on. Q3) what kind of guys do you like other than bodybuilders? would you date a twink? A3) I like other kinds of guys, a bloke doesn’t have to be a bodybuilder to catch my fancy but he does need to be into fitness and lifting and that’s more out of a shared interest thing. I want to date a guy who’ll work out with me and push me in the gym, go on hikes with me and other stuff and just in my experience twinks aren’t for me.  Q4) do you have a picture of what you wanna look like? A4) yep,

again unknown how close I’ll ever get to my goal going full natty but my plan is to put on as much muscle as I can naturally gain.

Q5) do you want to compete A5) I have thought about it, it’d just be a minor thing, nothing too big but possibly? don’t really know yet. But I do know I definitely want a poser when I have some more mass, those things are fucking hot.

Q6) will we ever get pics? A6) probably not. Sorry for people who wants pics of my progress but no. I dunno there may be a chance in the future when I like my body a bit more but even then I’d need to be careful as I am studying for a government job.

Q7) do you have other fantasies or just muscle growth? A7) yeah, a few others. It kind of came out of no where a few weeks ago but race change, the idea of staying the same person but at the same time becoming an entirely different person is very hot to me. Also sweat and B.O

Q8) Do you actually want to be sweaty all the time? A8) in fantasy yes, but I know in reality that is not possible with work. However there is nothing stopping me from hitting the gym and enjoying the stink for a few hours after. Not to mention it takes about 20-30 minutes of scrubbing to even wash it out because I am hairy as and it gets stuck. [as a bonus answer same goes for burping, I know I wouldn’t be able to forever but there is something about it that makes me feel sexy when I’m belching after a work out]

Q9) can I fund your growth for pics? A9) I’ve had a fair few guys message me asking if I have a pateron or somewhere they can send me money to see my progress and fun my progress and whilst the gym is expensive no, but unlike the pics in general where I dunno if ill get to a point of liking myself to post pics I don’t think I’ll ever make a pateron to fund my progress. Q10) what is something you think you’ll do when you get bigger? A10) Flex and wear underwear haha, once I start getting bigger I definitely see myself flexing in the mirror in my underwear for at least an hour a day. Hopefully one day Ill have the perfect storm of being big, having a massive pump, sweating up a storm and belching out my protein bloat.

Hope all the people who have been waiting for their answers got their questions answered. If not or if you have more you can always send in an ask or DM me.

[stellarred]

Deja Q's cut scene

Riker: Q, we can't have you just wandering around the ship. You will either work, or be confined to the Brig. Understood?

Q: Work? Hmph. You mean labor. I'm as old as Time itself. I've created celestial marvels, wrapped the Universe around my little--

Riker: Q, I'm warning you.

Q: And now I'm being sent away to row with the rest of the slaves.

Riker: You like the Brig? Okay. Have it your way then.

(Riker motions for a security officer.)

Q: Ok, fine! What are my chores today?

Riker: We need someone to clean out the residue from the walls of the photon torpedo tubes. The viscous sludge is slowing down the speed of the torpedoes, and it has to be scraped off the walls from time to time.

Q: You have got to be kidding me.

(Riker smiles as someone enters the room with a bucket filled with water and soap, and a cart full of scouring pads.)

Riker: Nope.

Q: Just wait until I get my powers back.

(Riker smiles at Q, and then looks at the officer that came with the cleaning supplies.)

Riker: You're a new face, Lieutenant. You're...?

The lieutenant nods.

Lt. Rowe: Lieutenant Michael Rowe, sir.

Riker: Excellent. Have fun, Q. Lieutenant Rowe, let me know when he's finished. It shouldn't take more than eight hours or so.

(Riker leaves Q and the lieutenant alone in the room.)

Lt. Rowe: Right this way, Q.

Q: Someone's head is going to roll in the Continuum for this humiliation. A god on his very knees scrubbing space sludge off a wall! I may never recover from this.

Lt. Rowe: It won't be so bad. I'm sure Commander Riker will appreciate your efforts. He's always impressed when someone does dirty jobs to keep the ship operations running well.

Q: It's not Riker I want to impress. Besides, who does he think he is making me the Enterprise janitor and forcing me to do gopher work? Since my former family dumped me here I've delivered orders and equipment, and now I'm cleaning out the bowels of Picard's ship! What's next? Cleaning toilets? What am I going to get out of this?

Lt. Rowe: Appreciation, maybe? Now, to get to the inner torpedo chamber, you need a wrench to undo these bolts.

(The lieutenant shows Q the tightly- closed hatch covering the entrance.)

Q: I won't do it, I tell you! I refuse!

Lt. Rowe: Not even for Picard? He might be nicer to you.

(Q hesitates for a second.)

Q: I'm hoping for much more than nicer.

Lt. Rowe: I see. I think I can inspire you to go this extra mile for your captain.

Q: Go the extra mile for Jean-Luc, uh, I mean Captain Picard?

Lt. Rowe: I'll tell you what. You do this, and I'll arrange a date with him. Candles, romantic ambience, and all.

Q: Ridiculous. Why would you do this for me? Starfleet would have you clapped in irons in a microsecond if they found out!

Lt. Rowe: Hey, don't you recognize a helping hand when you see one, Q?

(A flash of light, and another member of the Q Continuum is standing there, smiling.)

Q: Q! What are you doing here? No one from the Continuum is supposed to help me!

Q8: Well, let's just say someone back home owed me a favor. Now, will you degrade yourself like this for your human?

(Q8 disappears just as Riker returns)

Riker: Well, Q? Why aren't you scrubbing gunk off the walls? Are you going to get to work, or not!

Q: Hey, I'm the man, Riker. Hand me a wrench.

[blowflyfag]

ECW Magazine: February 2000

16 QUESTIONS WITH YOSHIHIRO TAJIRI

BY GABE SAPOLSKY ‘JAPANESE BUZZSAW’ KICKS HIS WAY THROUGH ECW ROSTER

Since joining Extreme Championship Wrestling in the beginning of 1999, Yoshihiro Tajiri has proven to be a perfect fit for the federation. From his bloody, barbed-wire beating at the hands of Taz at Heat Wave on July 18 to his victory over Little Guido and Super Crazy during a three-way dance at Anarchy Rulz on Sept. 19, Tajiri solidified the brutal reputation he built as a wrestler in Japan.

Tajiri is currently a soldier in Steve Corino’s war against hardcore wrestling. The following is an interview with the “Japanese Buzzsaw” conducted through an interpreter.

Q1. DO YOU LIKE WRESTLING IN THE UNITED STATES?

A. I like it except for the people. They are really ignorant and disrespectful. This has become a home to me, though. In Japan, I was also considered a rebel, I never really fit in. I am much more comfortable here. I get paid the most money here. I’d say that’s my favorite thing about the United States.

Q2. HAVE YOU PICKED UP A LOT OF ENGLISH?

A. I’m learning very quickly. I know a lot of phrases, for instance (now speaking in English): “ECW fans are white trash” (now back to Japanese through the interpreter). I’m very intelligent so my English improves every day. I learned Spanish while I was in Mexico. Soon I’ll be fluent in three languages. 

Q3. HOW DOES MEXICO COMPARE TO THE UNITED STATES?

A. Im supposed to answer that in one paragraph? They are very different. I can live in Mexico, Japan or the United States with equal ease. 

Q4. HOW DO THE DIFFERENT PROMOTIONS YOU’VE WORKED FOR COMPARE?

A. ECW has been my favorite promotion. I’m on national television every week here, I get the biggest checks of my career. I’m in a video game and everywhere I go I can find someone to kiss my ass because they know how good I am.

Q5. HAVE YOU HAD DIFFICULTY GETTING AROUND IN THE UNITED STATES?

A. Not really. A guy named Doug Gentry has actually helped me a lot. I call him and he drives me wherever I want. If I need something done around the apartment, he comes running. If I ask for a favor, he does it. He’s such a mark. It makes me laugh. It’s like I have my own butler. 

Q6. WHY DON’T YOU HAVE RESPECT FOR THE ECW FANS?

A. Like I said earlier, most of them are ignorant white trash. They chant items off a Chinese food Menu at me. They are just too stupid to even know that I am Japanese. Most of them couldn’t tell the difference between a Japanese, Chinese and Korea =n guy if they were all standing next to each other with their country’s flags hanging over their heads. That is pure ignorance. 

Q7. HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN YOUR CHANGE IN APPEARANCE AND ATTITUDE SINCE YOU ENTERED ECW?

A. This is the real me. I acted polite and quiet when I first got here because I was trying to earn a job. Now that I have cemented my place in ECW as a star, I can do and act however I want. You can say I put on an act and that I worked the ECW fans. Their stupid minds stereotype me as a nice, little foreigner. Well, that’s not me. I’m the Japanese buzzsaw and I’m the most dangerous athlete in ECW. I’m after the big money and I’ll do anything to get it.

Q8. THAT INCLUDES ALIGNING WITH STEVE CORINO?

A. He pays me the best. I’m not here to make friends. I’m here to make as much money as I can. There were two things that attracted me to wrestling. I wanted to travel and I wanted to make money. So far in ECW I’ve been very successful at both. 

Q9. HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA FOR THE TARANTULA?

A. That has to be one of the stupidest questions I've ever been asked. I'm proficient in Japanese, American and Mexican wrestling styles and kick boxing. I know every pressure point and every way possible to twist and turn your body. I know more wrestling hods than most wrestlers, for instance Tommy Dreamer, will ever forget.  The Tarantula is just what happens when I apply my immense knowledge to the ring.

Q10. WHICH WRESTLING STYLE DO YOU PREFER

A. It really doesn’t matter to me. I’m a machine. I just win and make money.

Q11. WHO HAS INFLUENCED YOUR CAREER?

A. Of course Kendo Nagasaki who trained me. I’d say from Mexico it would be Negro Casas. I have learned many things from him that I do today in ECW. As far as non-wrestlers, Victor Quinones, who booked me in ECW, has been very influential to me in and out of the ring. Victor has played a huge role in my success

Here are the names of some people you have been involved with in ECW. What are your opinions of them?

Q12. STEVIE CORINO

A. He is one of the most intelligent people I have met. Did I mention he pays me really well?

Q13. Jack Victory

A. A true legend in the business. It is an honor to be associated with him.

Q14. TOMMY DREAMER

A. I have shown respect for everyone mentioned, but I cannot do that for Tommy Dreamer. I hate everything that Dreamer stands for. I really take pleasure in hurting him and anything that is dear to him. That is why i sprayed Francine in the face [on July 31 at ECW arena in Philadelphia]. I will make him suffer and I will break his back and put him out for good.

Q15. SUPER CRAZY

A. Crazy and I were once very good friends. The rivalry we had in ECW has destroyed that friendship. I think he’s just getting jealous because I’m winning more of the matches. He is definitely one of the best lucha libre wrestlers in the world and a great athlete, but I’m better.

Q16. JERRY LYNN

A. I’ve been in the ring with the best of Japan, like Jushin Liger, the top wrestlers of two Mexican promotions and many of the top stars in America. Jerry Lynn is one of the best technical wrestlers I have ever faced. He is flawless, except for one thing: He is weak. He is always injured and that always gives me a body part to kick the hell out of. If i know Lynn has injured ribs, you better believe I’m going to kick and chop those ribs until he cannot breathe. That is why he will never beat me.

[rieindiegames]

Q1: What is your actual position in Ise’s court? 

A: I have more than one. 

Q2: What does your average day as Ise’s attendant look like? 

A: Long. I’m exhausted just thinking about it. 

Q3: How long have you known Ise? 

A: Long enough to be sick of it. 

Q4: Are you truly tired of him or are you maintaining a façade? 

A: Must there be an answer? You speak as if all relationships are perfectly categorized. 

Q5: Why are you so unapproachable? 

A: So that my relationships with others are as functional as I require them to be. 

Q6: Have you ever been in a romantic relationship? 

A: Stop asking intrusive questions. 

Q7: You can alter your form, so why choose to be short and slender? 

A: Because it’s less annoying. Imagine how many senseless skirmishes I’d be dragged into as the king’s attendant if I were absurdly imposing. I already work hard. If my stature were different, slaves would be more free than me. 

Q8: Why be Ise’s attendant if you dislike the job?

A: I have my reasons. One of them is that our foolish king is far lonelier than he lets on, and sadness doesn’t suit him.

[sseraflix]

JANUARY 2023 ISSUE | ELLE KOREA [EC]

OFFSHOT / PREVIEW

official = web / pics

MAGAZINE SCANS

credits to @39storage

INTERVIEW TRANSLATION

credits to @fimdungies & @itsLSRFM (web)

Q1: 2022 was a special year for Eunchae. What’s the most memorable scene?  It’s hard to choose one for the most memorable moment, but I want to choose my debut showcase! Before the stage LED door opened, I was standing in the back, holding poses nervously. It was when there were only a few seconds left of the moment I had dreamed of so much. I don’t think I’ll ever forget it.

Q2:  Just by looking at your expression, you can convey the overwhelming emotions at the time (laughs). Today’s pictorial also contains Eunchae’s bright energy, was it fun? I was excited because it was my first solo photoshoot (pictorial). I was excited because it also captured my personality and real appearance as it is. Depending on the pictorial concept, there are times when I become ‘dark’, and there are also times when I burst out laughing and smiling. It’s fun to put it differently every time.

Q3: Even in school, you were full of energy to the extent of participating in the student council and sports club, right? I am the kind of person who couldn’t stand still. I was very cheerful. I like to exercise and run around, so I play soccer with the guys and I think I look forward to PE class the most. 

Q4: You were the last trainee to join LE SSERAFIM  I remember the exact moment I heard that I was joining the team. Since I didn’t have a long trainee period, I vaguely thought that I would’ve enough time to practice tomorrow or the next day. But the opportunity came so suddenly. I was so grateful but at the same time I was scared. But still, with great luck my dream of debuting came to me, so I made up my mind to do well. 

Q5: So your heart became stronger at that moment  Starting from joining the team late, and getting used to it, to learning the choreography also recording, it wasn’t an easy job to do as a first timer. Looking back at the times I was running toward my goal of debuting now, it’s really precious and I’m proud of myself for doing well.

Q6: Even though It’s been two months since the tittle track for the 2nd mini album ‘ANTIFRAGILE’ release, it’s getting more and more love right now. What did you worked on the most while preparing for this song?  Because I wanted to show more sides of myself that I couldn’t show in the debut song ‘FEARLESS’ and do better, so I had a different mindset for this song. If I started promoting my debut song without knowing anything, it turns out  I became more nervous because ‘ANTIFRAGILE’ is my second promotion. The genre was unfamiliar and I was worried whether people would like it or not, but I was surprised and it’s amazing that it’s getting more love than I imagined. It also doesn’t feel real that it got 2nd on ‘Melon TOP 100’!

Q7: Especially on this part “Walk like a majestic lion / eyes glinting with so much desire” we could feel Eunchae’s unique color. It might sounds like you’re singing it lightly, but it sticks in your ears (easy to listen to). I thought it was an attractive part from the moment I heard it in the guide version, turns out that became my part!  The vocal teacher said that it would be better to sing it indifferently as if it were annoying, and it fits so well. It’s fun and interesting to see reaction like “it sticks in my ears/catchy” or “it’s strangely addictive”.

Q8: Did you know that the viewers also received a lot of energy from LE SSERAFIM unique moves like walking and kicking choreography? Do you gain strength by doing all of this move?  It’s really tough physically, but interestingly, expressing the same movements on stage doubles the energy. It gets more intense than when i was doing it in the practice room, I think LE SSERAFIM has the best stamina (laughs) 

Q9: Despite the intense choreography, your expression didn’t get disturb for a moment I went on stage with the mindset of raising my energy as much as possible even for a short time so that I won’t be embarrassed if I see it later, also so that I can show you everything I have. Maybe that’s why? 

Q10: The girls who moved forward without fear in ‘FEARLESS’ grew more in ‘ANTIFRAGILE’. Now beyond fearless, they also have become hard enough not to break. Has Eunchae also changed her mindset or attitude just like the message of the song?  When we were preparing for our comeback, we had schedules and practice, unlike our debut song. We were busy preparing for end year show performance as well so it was tiring. But,  I wanted to be on stage, so I casted a spell on myself to become ‘ANTIFRAGILE’. I was worried with the members as well about whether we would be able to complete this song well and make a comeback, or whether I could pull off this difficult choreography a few times during recording, but in the end it worked. We worked really hard and at some point it was completed. We even said  among ourselves, “ it’s really ‘ANTIFRAGILE’ that we went through a setback and completed a stage that’s better” (laughs) 

Q11: As soon as you debuted, you received a hot response, it must’ve been a sudden spotlight on the team, but Eunchae is full of confidence as if you’re meant to be on stage. How do you get rid of your nervousness?  I started doing this because I liked singing and dancing. I would be nervous or worried that I would make a mistake, but when it came to it and I stood on the stage and heard our song play, I thought “Right, I’ve come all this way to do this” and I felt a boost in my confidence. I’m not really the type of person who gets nervous that much.

Q12: I think I get the reason why the members find Eunchae so cute (laugh). How does it feel to be the maknae who receives all of LE SSERAFIM’s love? I don’t know much about the maknaes of the other teams, but I feel safe because of the four moms, I mean the unnies, that I have with me. There are a few times when it’s a little burdensome or pressuring to have them call me insanely cute even if I say just one thing, but I really enjoy it myself (laugh).

Q13: Each one of these four “moms” has a different character, don’t they? Can you introduce them all one by one through Eunchae’s point of view? I’m someone who can pick up on things really quickly, and Sakura unnie knows that too. One day, she told me this in passing, “You don’t have to be that quick to notice things. The maknae doesn’t need to be so cautious.”. I don’t have to be so aware and I can do whatever I want to do, and that unnie will do all the difficult things for me. Unnie might not remember that, but it really struck a chord in me. For Chaewon unnie, when I had first joined the team I was incredibly shy, and she would ask me if I was having a hard time and if I was okay. Those memories are still fresh in my mind. Yunjin unnie is like my real older sister, when she cuts some fruits up she feeds me a piece, and leaves them in the fridge for me to eat later on. And when I’m sitting still she says “You’re really cute” right away (laugh). Kazuha unnie is really thoughtful and kind-hearted. She’s someone who’s considerate about even the most trivial of things and puts others before herself. 

Q.14: You’re all full of affection. So, what do you like best about yourself? My bright personality? I laugh a lot so that’s why the unnies call me cute, but when I’m quiet it’s like the fun gets sucked out of Hong Eunchae. But I just like myself the most when I’m loud, acting like a kid, and laughing a ton. When I’m laughing, all my worries disappear.

Q.15: What do your school friends, who you laugh and chatter around with, now say about how you’re putting yourself out there in the world? Even so, I asked my closest friend about that, but since they know about all of the effort I’ve made even before becoming a trainee they said “I know that you’ve worked hard, so I’m also proud of you”. Maybe it’s because we’re so close that it was a luke-warm response, and instead of seeing me as a celebrity they just always say “Eunchae you looked pretty on TV today” to me (laugh). They said that being around other celebrities was more fascinating than me promoting as one!

Q.16: They waited for you to ask for their response, you really are besties. Deep down, I could feel that they’re proud of me. When we walk together in the streets and our song plays, or when a dance team performs a LE SSERAFIM song for a festival, I feel happy when they say “That’s your song playing!”. 

Q.17: You’re turning 17 internationally next year, and you’ll finally get your registration card, what’s the thing that you want to do first and foremost? I don’t really know what I want to do, but I first want to get pretty photos taken for my ID photo. I’ve seen Chaewon unnie’s ID photo and she looks so youthful and beautiful. I think I’ll be in great spirits if I get a pretty photo of me taken.

Q.18: What are lyrics among LE SSERAFIM’s songs that give you strength or you just like in particular? I like the lyrics ‘Even if it’s different from my fancy expectations / looking plain and shoddy / Find the good parts the good parts’ from the song “Good Parts (when the quality is bad but I am)” that’s on our new album. There are times when we make ourselves look great and fancy on the outside, but sometimes we can fail to meet expectations and feel like we don’t look so good. So I think that the message of “I love myself even if I’m lacking” is really cool and I want to have that mindset as well.

Q.19: What part in this line of work do you love? This may come off as being shameless, but hearing the loud cheers when I’m dancing and singing on the stage is just electrifying. I loved dancing so I started this job, and I have a huge desire to perform (laugh). The preparation period may have been really difficult and bleak, but back then just imagining that I could be doing all of this on stage made me feel like there was nothing I couldn’t do no matter how busy or exhausted I was.

Q.20: In the documentary “LE SSERAFIM – The World Is My Oyster” which records your journey to debut, you talked about your modest yet strong aspirations by saying “I want to make myself known to many people…”. Do you think that you have enough courage to “get to that amazing ending” just like the lyrics of “FEARLESS”? I don’t think I can say that I have enough, but I’ve gotten confidence from doing this album’s promotions and the year-end performances. Since now I know that there are so many people from across the world saying that our music and performances are cool!

VIDEO / BEHIND

[aorticsims]

fifteen questions thing that i lowkey didn’t know about (sorry)

i’m a tumblr noob but thanks for the tag @gladyssite

Q1: are you named after anyone?

Nope, although when I was in the consideration of the “what should I change my legal name to” process, I did consider “Puck”, after @/AnotherPlumbob, so I guess that kinda counts lol.

Q2: when was the last time you cried?

A2: Probably in my second-to-last year of high school. 2020 was a rough year.

Q3: do you have kids?

A3: nope and i don’t plan to have any.

Q4: do you use sarcasm a lot?

A4: I don’t really use sarcasm unless I need to.

Q5: what sports do you play/ have played?

A5: None. If I was a TS2 Sim, my interest in Sport would be 0.

Q6: what's the first thing you notice about other people?

A6: Their fashion and hairstyle.

Q7: eye color?

A7: Brown, with a sort of amber starburst colour

Q8: scary movies or happy endings?

A8: Depends on my mood

Q9: any special talents?

A9: speedrunning any language in duolingo

Q10: where were you born?

A10: Aotearoa/New Zealand

Q11: what are your hobbies?

A11: playing TS4, running a semi-active simblr

Q12: do you have any pets?

A12: I have two cats. Their names are Lexie and Meeko (both girls).

Q13: how tall are you?

A13: About 185-6cm. I haven’t checked in a while.

Q14: favorite subject in school?

A14: Japanese, or any other language subject that’s not English. Also maths.

Q15: dream job?

A15: Probably a musical artist, or a streamer. I do not have the singing skill or the charisma skill to do either of them though.

i’ve now realized i don’t have fifteen mutuals soooooo i’m just going to tag them and hope for the best :/ please send help

@w-sims @ssleepyzombie @kezzplayssims