#she barely interacts with HELEN

[woso-dreamzzz]

Chook and Gremlin

Kewis x Child!Reader (Chook) x Gremlin

Summary: Gremlin's your future best friend

Kristie watches warily as Katie and Caitlin's daughter goes stomping around her living room.

It's the first time they've babysat Katie and Caitlin's little Gremlin before and, despite Sam insisting you'd get along with the little toddler, Kristie still has her doubts.

You seem a little wary too, shuffling on your feet and clutching a dinosaur in your hand as you watch as Gremlin explores her new surroundings.

"You don't have to play just yet," Kristie says, hand carding through your hair gently as you hide behind her leg," We'll go at your own pace, chook."

You nod, a slight up and down motion of your head that Kristie barely feels against her hand.

"Mommy," You whisper," Does she like dinos?"

"I'm not sure. Do you want to go and ask?"

"I...I have another dino mask. We could be dinos together?"

"It's sweet of you to share your toys."

"I go get them?"

"Of course."

You disappear into your bedroom and Kristie sits at the kitchen table supervising Gremlin's exploring.

You don't really have any friends outside of those at school and you certainly aren't friends with someone so many years younger than yourself.

But there's a baby coming, another little presence that you have no idea about. A baby is coming and Kristie can't help but worry that she's made a terrible decision and already ruined your life.

She and Sam had floated the idea, of course, about how you would feel having a little sibling. You'd been dismissive and uncaring with only a quick question of 'do I have to share all of my toys?'.

You'd given no indication of your feelings on the matter. No indication if you had suspicions on why you'd even been asked.

Kristie had never seen you interact with kids younger than you before and yet, here is one now.

A little toddler with a face like thunder and a little wrinkled nose as she attempts to climb the cat tree to pet Helen.

Kristie goes to stand but Sam's quicker, crossing the room and plucking Gremlin away from harm by the back of her overalls.

"Cats can scratch," She warns," If you pet them wrong."

Gremlin's little face scrunches up. "I know! Have two cats at home! Coopurr an' Spicy!"

"Mommy!" Kristie's attention shifts from Sam and Gremlin to your voice and she finally heaves herself up to walk the path to your bedroom.

"My chook? What's wrong?"

"Can't-Can't find my other dino mask! Jus-Just the dragon one!"

You look distraught, your velociraptor mask in one hand and your dragon mask in the other.

"That's alri-"

"No! What if she doesn't like dragons?"

"I'm sure she'll love dragons." Kristie sits on the floor, gently reaching for your waist and drawing you forward until you're standing in front of her. "What's wrong? Huh? What's got you so worried?"

Your bottom lip wobbles dangerously and Kristie can see your eyes get all watery like you're about to cry.

"What...What if she thinks I'm broken?"

"Broken? Why would she think you're broken?"

You look down, silent for a moment as you shuffle your feet. "Because I'm sick," You whisper," And sometimes I'm not really here..."

"Oh, chookie...You're not broken. I promise. You're not broken at all. You're just a little different to other kids and that's okay. I promise that Gremlin won't think you're broken at all and I'm sure she'd love being a dragon instead of a dino."

You sniffle. "Yeah?"

"Yeah. Do you want a cuddle before we go back out there?"

"Yes, please."

When you finally end up back in the living room, Sam is dangling Gremlin by the back of her overalls while the toddler giggles hysterically.

"You've got this," Kristie whispers to you," You and Gremlin are going to be great friends. I know it."

You shuffle forward slowly, tugging on Sam's leg so she knows to let your new friend down.

"Here," You say, handing over the mask," It's a dragon. They breath fire."

"Dragon?" Gremlin asks, head cocking to the side.

You nod. "Dragon. They're like dinosaurs but with big wings and fire."

Gremlin grins. "I like dragons. Dragons eat people!"

She turns to look at Sam as she pulls the mask on.

Her eyes dart to your velociraptor mask. "Dinosaurs eat people too?"

You nod. "They can." You slip on your mask.

"Good," She says," Now, we eat auntie Sam!"

[anghraine]

You know, on rewatching, I'm way more creeped out by "Dagger of the Mind" than I was when I first watched it.

A lot of the episode revolves around Kirk's tense relationship with Dr. Helen Noel, who happens to be (IMO) one of the most staggeringly beautiful women in a show that has many of them and proves to be pretty damn competent. I was sympathetic to her when I was first watching, especially since Kirk is so brusque and borderline hostile towards her in the earlier part of the episode (unusually; he's generally on very amicable terms with old flames). He insists on maintaining a rather cold professional distance while she tries to make their interactions more friendly and personal.

At first, I figured she was an ex who dumped him, and he's rude because he's embarrassed and resentful about it (which seemed kind of shitty of him) and frustrated that she keeps blurring the personal and professional while "on the job" (fairer). But as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that they never dated at all.

In fact, they did no more (at least physically) than flirtatiously dance at a party. Helen suggests she wanted to take things further, but he just "talked about the stars." That does sound like very Kirk behavior (part of why he falls for Edith Keeler later is her fascination with the stars/the dream of space travel), especially considering that she's an off-limits crew member. However, it seems obvious that something happened that night that he does still resent, though we're never told what.

In any case, she's the one who keeps trying to reignite the flame from that night on the job. He wasn't willing to go there then and isn't willing now, while she hasn't really accepted that at first—which makes his barely-restrained hostility towards her much more justifiable.

Later, he asks her to test the neural neutralizer's effectiveness on him by asking her to implant a memory of something "unusual" that they can 100% agree isn't real. She chooses to implant her fantasy scenario where they did sleep together after the party, with fantasy!Helen making some token protests about respectability that fantasy!Kirk disregards. It feels pretty damn sketchy that she chooses this in particular, given his previous rejection and his clear resentment of whatever did happen that night. Also, her implanted fantasy version of Kirk doesn't care about her and is only interested in sex, something deeply uncharacteristic of the real Kirk, whose enthusiastically consenting sexual encounters/history are consistently with serious long-term romantic partners. It's quite evidently about what she wanted from him, not what he might have wanted.

Then the villain of the episode, Dr. Adams, shows up and seizes control of the neural neutralizer, and starts using it to implant much stronger suggestions in Kirk's mind, including a passionate devotion to Helen he clearly intends to use to control Kirk. This more or less succeeds, though Kirk is later able to shake it off with periodic reminders from Helen that it isn't real, in fairness to her. But the ethical dubiousness of the neural neutralizer's effect is made pretty clear—

HELEN: Captain. Captain? KIRK: Helen, are you all right? [He kisses her] HELEN: Yes. This isn't right, captain.

My rough impression of Kirk/Helen is that he was attracted to her at the party, but felt anything beyond mild flirtation would be inappropriate (he doesn't fraternize with his crew), and she didn't accept his rejection at first. I don't think his obvious grudge is likely to be over some simple awkwardness around a rejection. It's not 100% certain what it is about, but I get the feeling he had to shut her down pretty harshly at the party before she'd accept it, and resents being cornered into that position, all the more because she's still being pushy with him.

In the final scene on the bridge, they receive a message that the neural neutralizer is destroyed, and Kirk responds with some feeling, "Thank you."

Very unsettling tbh.

[katerinaaqu]

@prompted-wordsmith

This is for you because your small story was amazing so I want to create one in return! And since you want Helen to speak up more here is a little interaction pre-departure from Troy between Helen and Odysseus because why not!

The city hadn't yet stopped smoking from the night of massacre. Helen feared it never would. The smell of burning wood and asbestos was sticking on her clothes and hair; bitter reminder of the events of the night before. Helen didn't want even to think of the lingering smell of blood; metal and water that she had touched. It was as if everything was red now; hands and heart and bloodshot eyes. She hadn't slept that night or the night after it. She feared she never would again.

She could still feel that this was partially her fault; both the beginning and the end of it. She knew the Horse was a farse; a well-staged plan. She chose not to alert the alarm. She had chosen her side once more. And now women and children and men at Troy were laying down dead or worse. She remembered seeing Andromache being dragged out of the city in chains along with other women. They were to be sold as slaves or given as prices to the kings of the Acheans. The once proud queen was now crying woefully; mourning her husband who was killed. She had been dragged out of her husband's tomb where she went to seek sanctuary. That was the ultimate hubris along with her father-in-law Priam who she heard from a conversation had been slain upon the altar he hoped would grand him his life. She heard it was Neoptolemus, the young man who carried the blood of Achilles in his veins and apparently his rage and temper. Who would have known that a child like that could be so cruel and blasphemous? So full of rage? Helen could not see her infant son in her arms as she was taken away. She didn't even dare to ask. For a brief second Andromache raised her head and her honey eyes stuck within her blue ones. The look was almost accusatory as the tears had given her face reddish lines. Or perhaps it was the self inflicted scratches that she had made in her woe. That second lasted longer than it should be before the queen was dragged away.

"That could have been me..." she thought

However her position was not much different. As she was standing at the peer, she was always guarded by a soldier; obviously her husband wanted both to protect her but also obviously he didn't trust her. Helen couldn't say she blamed him but it still hurt. She was seeing Menelaus talking to Odysseus, sorting out the details. Helen watched her husband and her former fiance in wonder. Indeed how strange fate was! How different the two men were! She could tell Menelaus's auburn hair from kilometers away as they were held together by a band around his head. He was well built and strong, seemed dressed in sunlight. Odysseus next to him seemed the opposite. He wasn't tall. He was barely average, a few decent inches shorter than her husband and a good head shorter than her brother-in-law however he seemed wider in shoulder and his chest resembled a wall dressed in a coat of dark curly hair. His head was adorned with black hair that seemed golden under the setting sun: bushy and curly like a ram held together by various little bands that held his curls tamed under his leather headband. His beard was equally bushy and shaggy even if he had obviously tried to make himself more presentable from the night before. His onyx eyes were bottomless holes. The man seemed tired; prematurely aged that day. Helen knew that he had a similar burden to bare with her. How strange indeed, she thought. The man seemed like coming from the night. And yet he seemed darker now; his shoulders seemed heavier than before.

"Take her home safely"

Odysseus's voice drew her out of her daydream. His voice was hoarse and tired. He seemed aged before his years. Helen remembered again the flamboyant young man that was supposed to court her. Sure his eyes filled with premature wisdom and intelligence gave him an aura of age but she could remember his laughter and smile seemed those of a teenager as if trying to persuade people of his actual age. Now that teen was gone. He was a man now; long past that first youth; a Sacker of Cities.

"Otherwise all this would have been for nothing!"

The timbre in his voice; the seer accusation, hurt her much more than anything besides her husband's distrust. No, at least Odysseus...the wise and prudent Odysseus should understand. Menelaus nodded to his loyal friend and shot her with yet another look. Helen couldn't decide if it was angry or closer to sad. As he walked away she turned again to look at Odysseus. The man barely saw her with the corner of his eye but spoke nothing. Helen couldn't bare the silence any longer.

"Odysseus..." she finally spoke, "Why? How can you be so cruel?"

"Cruel?" His voice was full of disbelief, of anger that made his chest rise like the tide

He turned to her walking like a lion ready to pounce. Helen stood her ground though. She stuck her ocean blue eyes deeply within his black ones.

"Cruel?" He repeated, "I've lost my son's first 10 years because of this war!"

"This war wasn't my choice!" Helen felt the need to defend herself against him.

"It commensed because of you!" The accusation was finally spoken outloud, "Menelaus started this because of you!"

"I didn't know he-..."

"YES YOU DID!" Odysseus finally bellowed making her take a step back, "yes you did...you just didn't think!"

He turned her back at her. He was about to leave but he didn't seem done yet.

"The blood of many brave Acheans is on your hands..."

That was way too much. Odysseus should know better than hurt her this way! This was unfair even if spoken through pain and anger. Bravely Helen held back the tears that burnt her eyes. He wouldn't see her weep!

"If I told you..." she began with the best voice she could master, "...that gods play games with us all the time...that they cloud our judgment... Would you believe me?"

Odysseus looked over his shoulder but spoke nothing.

"You of all people should understand" Helen whispered

"What does it matter what I'd believe?"

"It matters to me!" Helen replied firmly. "Please, Odysseus...at least you...at least you should believe me..."

Odysseus seemed ready to reply but the last minute he stopped himself. He chose silence; cruel and cold silence. He began walking away. Two angry tears ran down her white, rosy cheeks. No she couldn't leave it this way!

"ODYSSEUS!" She yelled after him, "you're a hypocrite!"

That stopped him to his tracks as he turned around.

"What?" He asked almost scandalized

Helen was shivering from top to bottom and her knuckles turned white from clenching them too hard.

"Do you think you're any better, Sacker of cities?!" The last one was spat like an insult like a curse, "do you think your hands are clean? You say that the war commensed because of me! That so many Greeks died because of me! Then what about you, Odysseus? What about all the Trojans killed in the city in that bloodbath?! What about all these women and children that are now piled up to be burnt or eaten by dogs and vultures? Who is to answer for THOSE Odysseus?"

Odysseus of Ithaca was frozen in place, shaking in anger but so was she. And she wouldn't be stopped now. She was Helen of Sparta, Helen of Troy, Helen the daughter of Zeus!

"It was your plan, your scheme that got the Greeks inside the holy city of Troy! It was your idea that gave them the way to sack it!"

Odysseus, the eloquent man seemed now unable to respond. He seemed stripped out of his furious anger although some of it was burning inside. Instead he managed to utter

"This massacre wasn't my choice..."

A sound between humorless and mocking laughter and cry came out of her mouth.

"Oh so you tell me you didn't know? You didn't know that the Greeks who were away from their homes, wives and children wouldn't unleash all their piled hatred? Didn't you know they would burn the city that kept them away from them to the ground so it wouldn't rise again?"

He didn't respond. Helen knew he couldn't.

"You say the blood of the Greeks is on my hands. Then the blood of Trojans is on yours!"

Odysseus seemed to have trouble breathing. She had hurt him and she knew it. Perhaps she had simply voiced everything he had in his mind all those days. She could remember how tenderly he spoke of his wife and son. Her husband used to say he identified himself as father of Telemachus not son of Laërtes. Women and children...his son and wife... He seemed ready to either lash at her or leave. However as always The Man of Many Ways sighed and did the unexpected; he spoke again.

"It doesn't matter whether I believe you or not, you know. What it matters is if he does"

Helen took a glance towards Menelaus from a distance. He was preparing the ship. She sighed and returned her gaze towards the man they called "equal to gods".

"But do you?"

"Yes" he finally admitted, "yes I believe you"

Helen sighed in relief. It was her thanking to him

"There is fate between us, Helen..." Odysseus said hoarsely.

Helen didn't need to see his face behind his wide back to read his expression.

"Yes" she replied, "you could have been my husband"

"I am glad that I'm not"

That husky whisper made her look up in wonder. She didn't expect that answer.

"You don't deserve me" the son of Laërtes said, "and I don't deserve you"

He barely looked at her again over his large shoulder.

"I see now why my cousin loved you" whispered she

"And I see why he loved you." Replied Odysseus, "why he started a war for you. Not for his pride; for you. You were indeed worth it..."

He looked at her again for the first time for a while.

"You and I have both blood on our hands" he said grimly, "you, the starter of war, hold the blood of many brave Acheans upon you...while I, the one who ended it, the Sacker of Cities, will have to live for the rest of my life carrying the deaths of Trojans upon me... Women and children..."

He covered his face with his large hand and turned around. He was sobbing.

"Women and children..." he whispered again, "Penelope...my sweet Telemachus...children... infants no older than he was..."

Helen was afraid to ask. She didn't want to know. She had met enough horror for a lifetime. She wanted to move on. She wanted to forget.

"Get home safely, Odysseus" she wished to him, "Husband to Penelope...father to Telemachus. I hope you will get what you wished for..."

"You too, Helen, kissed by the sun like golden Aphrodite...daughter of Zeus. Farewell Queen of Sparta..."

He walked away. Helen heard his voice yelling orders to his men like the expert sailor he was. Helen sighed and smiled so slightly. The title he used...was addressed to her. Odysseus had recognized her admitted her but also signaled her, her fate. She knew now she had a second chance to rectify everything; first for herself and next for everyone else.

The journey had come to an end. A new one was about to begin.

Okay guys I am so sorry I have no idea why or how but yeah...this... I hope you liked it.

[blueberry-ink-93]

ORESTES

euripides be wilding lmao. thoughts!!

--

fascinating to me that hermione was in argos (?) when menelaus went off to war. which makes sense ngl lol she was a child

anyhows helen arrives and asks electra to take her to clys grave for an offering and libation and this happens

and omg. helen girl what the hell lol.

--

electra my baby shes so distraught (orestes in the bg is asleep)

emotional damage has been dealt

--

what if i sobbed

what then

hes lucid for barely a moment and then hes back and it killed me

works nicely with the fic stuff i have in mind

--

euripides man what the fuck. did you have to hurt me like this

--

hes lucid again

wait for it

im going to explode

theyre so siblings

lord take me now

--

pylades!!!

i like that electra played an active part in da murder. good for her

--

HERMIONE. UR FAMILY IS HERMIONE. GO MARRY HER

felt

strophius mention!!!

im a strophius stan (please god let him be good lmao)

i have so many hcs ldkjhsjd i bet pylades is just like him :3

this was so funny to me lmao. cant tell if orestes is trolling the poor guy or being serious but the interaction made me laugh

--

LDKSQDJSWKSJDFGROEWKJERGRE LMAO

when the reverse psychology doesnt work on ur nephew:

i like my men slightly unhinged

poor hermione tho lol girlie must be traumatised

--

big oof

--

ngl i had no prior knowledge of apollo swooping in and taking helen this caught me so off guard lol

helen reunited with her brothers tho 🥺

has this been drawn yet

apollo and helen just peacing out, or ascending to the heavens backwards (like moonwalking). please tell me this is a thing

--

GOOD. FUCK THAT GUY *everyone cheers*

idk why blasphemy being neos demise is so funny to me. in my heart of hearts however andromache kills him. ft. apollo

OH???

electra x pylades confirmed

ngl idk how to feel about them lol

between him and orestes being totally hetero homies and electra grieving (and lamenting her maidenhood??) i honestly dont know

(in my fic so far pylades goes home and chysothemis goes with him as his lil sister to chill there for a few years till orestes unites argos and ascends. never thought of marrying electra off honestly, i dont think shed be too pleased letting go of her brother so soon. what do yall think?)

--

[exit KINDRED]

[babyrdie]

Stupid and bitter rant

Feeling like a weirdo because most of the time my feed seems to share the same opinions about Trojan War characters and I just don't share them. I keep wondering if I'm doing something wrong, there's no way everyone has decided to interact this way and I just don't see the appeal.

I don't care about Diomedes, sorry. It's not even that I don't like him, I just tend to forget he's there.

Helen is far from the most complex or interesting female character, in my opinion. Tecmessa barely appears and she intrigues me more.

Antilochus being romantically involved with Patroclus/Achilles doesn't seem to have more potential to me than Achilles possibly valuing friendship (Antilochus) and romance (Patroclus) equally.

I don't hate Paris and I prefer the version where he didn't kidnap Helen, but I don't think he's a poor meow meow.

I remember that Teucer and Helenus exist, which is surprising.

I can't understand the logic of liking the Skyros (Achilles) episode but ignoring Deidamia.

Tumblr Patrochilles is an unknown creature to me.

Ajax Telamonius isn't much better than Ajax son of Oileus, if we are talking about morality.

Odysseus doesn't give a damn about teenage Achilles (when he went after him on Skyros), Neoptolemus, Iphigenia or Polyxena. Sorry, he's HORRIBLE with other people's children.

Agamemnon isn't the most underrated Trojan War character. There are characters much more ignored than him.

Menelaus isn't a saint. I haven't forgotten that Megapenthes exists, I think it's selfish to call for a war of this size over a problem that should be his, and I haven't forgotten that it's a common tradition that he tries to kill Helen before repenting and giving up. I like him, but he isn't a saint.

I don't think the myth in which Ajax attacks Cassandra is convincing proof that the characters were horrified by rape per se, including the gods. I think they were horrified by sacrilege.

Someone please talk about Iphigenia in a post that isn't about Agamemnon or Clytemnestra, thank you.

The Trojans were also slave owners. People ignore this, but they also enslaved people. That doesn't mean what was done to them was deserved, but boiling it down to "slave owners vs. people without slavery system" doesn't make sense.

I don't care about Odysseus's fidelity discourse, seriously.

[mothmanssweetsucculentass]

Bloody Painter Headcanons

Did y’all miss these? Idc if this seems like a weird direction to go from my past two HC lists, I’ve always loved Helen as a character and I just went and read up on all the compiled lore DeluCat made of him years ago, and I got some HCs fresh in my mind!

I used THIS YouTube video from DeluCat herself as my main source, assume anything I don’t list/discuss here is filled in by anything here. I’m actually really impressed that she did so much research on different serial killers, psych ward operations, and violent crimes to make Helen as realistic as possible.

Expect canon typical horror/mature topics being discussed from this point forward, nothing is censored beyond this point!!!!

Roughly about 25, give or take a few years

STRICTLY he/him, will react violently if anyone calls him different pronouns, especially feminine ones

Despite this, he’s definitely not cis (it’s actually canon that he’s agender! Friendly reminder that pronouns =/= gender)

Like bro you were literally raised to have a gender crisis. Everyone point and laugh at the egg

Jeff used she/her for him once as a joke and he still has deep scars from what Helen decided to do to him

Like I shit you not, Helen took a sizable chunk of skin out of Jeff’s back, and only stopped because Eyeless Jack physically had to hold him back until Jeff left his line of sight

You wouldn’t even expect such violent outbursts from this guy considering how normally calm he is

Barely talks at all tbh

Like, he’ll interact politely with most of the residents of the mansion and isn’t turned off by conversation, but don’t expect him to hold a full conversation if he deems you boring or unimportant

Which tbh he probably will, he’s not super big on friendships considering how his last one went

Mostly prefers to keep to himself and is often in the more run down/abandoned wings of the manor

Has a naturally more feminine looking face (long eyelashes, smaller nose, etc) and does nothing to try and fix/hide it

Has converted one of the dilapidated rooms into an “art” studio

And by art. Heh. Let’s just say. Corpses

No actually he really just has an entire room dedicated to some of the most fucked up art a person is capable of making

Sculptures made out of bones and flesh, jars filled with coagulated blood submerging his taxidermy projects, eyeball jewelry, teeth jewelry, paint made from pummeled organs and flesh, brandings and etchings on stretched human skin, plushies made of human hair, he’s got it all

He also makes more “normal” art, which in reality is just more traditional mediums that still depict his usual obsessions with violence

Has gotten used to the scent of rot and decay like pretty much every resident has, but is one of the few who enjoys it

Is very selfish, self centered, and has an ego larger than Texas

Him and Ben have a somewhat transactional relationship; Helen films all the depraved torture and crafting he enacts and shares it with Ben, and Ben prints out news articles of Helen’s crimes for Helen to make art with, or just look at to admire his handiwork

ZERO empathy. His morals heavily align with the BEN AI, and even somewhat Slenderman’s

Hates animals. Not cause he’s scared of them or anything, but because he finds their existence useless

…unless he’s using it for fucked up taxidermy

LOVES torture the same way Eyelss Jack loves vivisections

One of his favorite things to do is rip a person’s fingernails out one by one, and then severing the hand and using the bleeding nail beds as the world’s most fucked up large paintbrush

Besides art, he loves to read. Kind of a given considering he’s basically the quiet kid

Loves depraved horror novels and serial killer memoirs/autobiographies

Can speak fluent Chinese, and often shit talks other pastas to their faces without them even knowing

Kagekao learned Chinese just so the two could gossip

Similar to EJ, has a more “buff” physique and has been seen breaking bones effortlessly. When you’ve been murdering steadily for over a decade at this point you kinda just learn where the weak/break points are in the human body

Can improvise anything into a weapon

Actually he really loves killing people with unconventional murder weapons. Scenes are often found with things like metal straws lodged in a victim’s sternum, or the top of a bowling pin shoved down a victim’s throat so far their jaw broke and the victim subsequently choked on their own blood from their shattered teeth

He’s gotten so good at this that the other pastas will literally make a game out of it and challenge him to use an outlandish item as a weapon the next time he kills

“Okay okay how about a bong” “are you being serious right now” “just answer the question art boy” “twice, actually. Though technically I think one of them was a really weird ceramic frog instead. That, or a pcp pipe.” “Awesome”

Hates removing his mask around anyone he’s not acquainted with

Gets reeeaaalll fuckin quiet too

Has gotten so good at being stealthy he doesn’t even alert or startle people like Eyeless Jack does

Surprisingly enough he actually gets enough sleep compared to most of the other residents of the manor

He’s also able to get comfortable and sleep practically anywhere, in the weirdest positions too. Is often found passed out in his studio sitting up, or laying on the floor covered in metal torture tools and bones

Despite his lack of empathy, his blood boils and he seethes if anyone dares to mess with Sally

The first day he stumbled across the manor and introduced himself by what the media called him, Sally gave him a drawing of himself, and he vowed on the spot to look out for the little snot

Is already a naturally patient person, and is incredibly patient and gentle when explaining how to do specific art things to Sally

Jokingly “agrees” with Sally about not liking doctors whenever she’s around eyeless Jack (though in his case he hates psych doctors vastly more than physical ailment doctors)

Back to the patience thing: will stalk a victim for months to toy with them. He has an eternity to do this to people with his newfound abilities granted to him by slenderman, why rush?

Helen 🤝 BEN/Ben = malewhore mansplain manipulate

Will say anything to get what he wants

Thinks in a very transactional and technical way. If you don’t do or offer something to benefit him first, he doesn’t even see you as a person

Is friends/close with: Sally, Eyeless Jack, BEN/Ben, Jason, Ann, and KageKao

Has a tolerable relationship with/is very neutral about: Masky, Hoody, Jane, Liu, Puppeteer, LJ, and Slenderman

Doesn’t get along with/HATES: clockwork, Nina, and Jeff

Him and Jason often collaborate together on pieces involving still living people

Him and Ann have a mutual distaste for doctors/hospital settings, and can often be found stitching up their wounds (or sometimes in Helen’s case a piece involving human flesh) together

Ace, heavily questioning if he’s aro too

He finds Ann aesthetically pleasing to look at, but his thoughts don’t go any further than that. Often uses her as figure practice (with her consent)

Is mainly fascinated by the fact she’s a walking sentient corpse

Tried cannibalism once, wasn’t a fan

Tried going to both Eyeless Jack and Ann once during a dysphoria-spurred panic attack and begged for bottom surgery

“But why tho” “I’m ace. I don’t need it. Don’t women who never want to get pregnant get rid of their uteruses anyways?” “Well, yes, but-“ “so help me god get this thing off my body”

Obviously one of the few times he actually doesn’t appear calm and put together to people. Tries his damn hardest to hide these panic attacks unless around Eyeless Jack or Ann. Would be mortified if Ben, Sally, or any of the loud judgmental pastas saw him in this state

Gives a lot of his full corpse art pieces a physical sex swap

You’re dead but hey free top surgery and you get to be fucked up art

Honestly doesn’t give a shit about symbolism, makes art of whatever he wants/feels like and makes it pretty clear there’s no hidden meaning

[faafi]

do you have a favorite loonatics unleashed episode?

Yes, I do!

Of course, it's a common answer, but my personal favorite episode is The Family Business. This episode is my favorite since it explores such an interesting part of the canon (the relations within Rev's family & the relations between roadrunners and coyotes). And, of course, I love Rev! And Tech, too! But Rev needs all of the love!!!

Besides The Family Business, my two other personal favorites are The Menace of Mastermind and It Came from Outer Space. These two episodes are the strongest in terms of their pacing, and there is a lot of great interactions between most of the characters (I say most because Slam doesn't interact much; but then again, Slam barely talks with the other Loonatics in most episodes, so whatever).

It Came from Outer Space

Personally, It Came from Outer Space is one of the funniest episodes of the show. Or at the very least, it is one of the stronger episodes in terms of comedy. Each character is fun to watch. Additionally, I love the inclusion of the classic Looney Tunes reference and how this gag is tied into the plot (picture above). This joke is very tastefully done (at least in comparison to the references that were made in Loonatics on Ice).

As a side rant, I love Rev here. This scene (shown above) is brief, but there is a lot to dissect ("Say, remember what Lexi said about feeling like Helen of Troy? Maybe we could make her really feel that way!").

For earlier context, when Melvin threatens to the Loonatics that he will blow up Acmetropolis if he can't abduct Lexi, Lexi comments that she feels like Helen of Troy. After saying this, everyone is confused, including Tech and Rev. Rev even looks behind himself and softly shakes his head side to side (shown below).

In the next few scenes, Rev is nowhere to be seen.

Later on, Rev doesn't show up until everyone is seated at the circular mission table except for Lexi.

It is revealed that Lexi went onto Melvin's ship for the sake of saving the city. Then, Tech & Ace talk about getting her back. Tech establishes that Melvin's spacecraft is impenetrable. Here, Rev proposes that they infiltrate Melvin's ship via a Trojan Horse. Sure, this scene is brief, but it really speaks a lot on Rev's character.

I am going to incorporate this idea into a later fic, but I love the premise that Rev is a huge book junkie who will read up on any subject. In my head, I think that Rev read a lot about Helen of Troy and learned about the Trojan Horse. This would explain why Rev wasn't present in that section of the episode.

This would also explain why Rev was confused when he heard Helen of Troy earlier and then proposed the Trojan Horse idea later.

As an aside, this moment is one of the few times when Tech is genuinely confused about something, and it is SO funny (picture below).

The Menace of Mastermind

This episode is a really entertaining episode overall.

The Menace of Mastermind: I loved the premise of this episode (where Mastermind infiltrates the Loonatics HQ). In terms of characterization, Mastermind is one of the best Loonatics villains.

There are a lot of one-liners here, too ("What?! Now is exactly the time to panic!", "My brilliant inventions. What has that ghastly woman done to my babies?!", etc.).

Like I said, this episode is fun to watch.

I especially like this scene when the Loonatics realize that their spare weapons were modified by Mastermind. Here (in the image below), Tech's spare weapons were altered so that they would wrap around each person's hands. And so each character has to break the ropes around their hands.

Of course, each character has their own way of getting out of their restraints (brute force, laser vision, teleportation, etc.).

In this part, Rev aims the weapon in front of himself.

HE FIRES AND USES HIS SPEED TO GO IN FRONT OF THE PROJECTILE

AND THE PROJECTILE STRIKES HIS OWN WEAPON

AND HE IS NO LONGER STUCK TO THE WEAPON

LIKE WHAT

MY CHILD IS SO SMART <3

Also, this episode has one of the most underrated TechRev moments of all time. There is an earlier scene in the episode where the Loonatics are hiding inside of the vents from Mastermind. Rev, Lexi, and Slam go to shut off the EMP.

When Lexi asks about where the EMP is located, Tech says, "It's hidden right in plain sight, and comes with simple instructions."

Later on, Rev, Lexi, and Slam find the EMP. Lexi says, "Aww, Tech said they'd come with simple instructions. Simple my lucky foot."

Then, Rev says, "I got this. Step 1: Arm primary ignition sequence using standard alphanumeric code calculations. Step 2: Insert electron overdrive..."

I LOVE this scene. It is perfect. This scene shows not only shows Rev's intelligence, but it also shows how familiar Rev is with Tech's thinking. It shows how Tech and Rev are comfortable with each other, even when they are not physically together. It's great.

I also love this shot (shown below) when Rev casually looks away from the screen while he is still talking at the same quick speed. Meanwhile, Lexi is beyond confused. It's a comical riot.

Also, this is really subtle, but I adore this detail: the next scene with Rev & Lexi shows that Rev is the person who is holding the EMP device (shown below). It's funny to think that Lexi just handed Rev the device so that he could deal with it.

Overall, my favorite episode of this show is The Family Business, but I also really enjoyed The Menace of Mastermind & It Came from Outer Space, too.

edit: updated the pictures for The Menace of Mastermind with ones that were higher quality

[phantombluego]

Welcome back! Also dont worry about leaving me hanging for to long i totally understand

My brain is a bit mushy since im sick but i still will write hc's cause its fun but sorry if it sounds weird or worded weirdly

[Family fluff]

I feel like Tele and Hermoine bonded a lot as kids cause missing father issues due to war. They would always hang out and gossip. They grew apart when they were older since Helen and Menelaus came back (my parents fr). They would still send letters and she would visit with her when Ody returned. Her and Tele would catch up during that time and talk about issues of how am i supposed to handle my dad after i have barely seen in my life and Hermoine would give him tips.

[Girl dad modern au]

Amphinomus would be the dad with 2 jobs but would always try to make time for her. She would wait for her dad to come home and fall asleep on the couch and then ask for a story when arrived back home since she would wake up after getting picked up and brought to bed. On saturdays they would watch cartoons together at night and do a fun activitie or activities on that day. He would get her stuff from the cartoons they watch like plushies or a keychain or pjs and clothes.

[More suitors for Tele au]

Telemachus would realize that not only was he gay but really gay and that Neo and Peisis both captured his heart. He loves them both in different ways. Peisis cause he is easy to talk to and he would be his comfort (and favourite) person. They would have the most fluff themed dates and interactions like jusy sitting in a flower field talking about stuff and Peisis would make sure Tele felt seen and heard. Peisis would also help him get out of his shell more and encourage him to do more. With Neo he would love him for how he isnt scared to talk back and say shit to people who piss them off while also seeing himself in Neo for some stuff. Their love language is sparring and then bandaging and cleanimg each others wounds. He loves the playful banter he has with him and the stories of war and fights he was in. They would discuss war strategies and best ways to fight. They would argue a lot but it would be all good a few hours later with apolagies. Tele brings the good out Neo while Neo brings the frustation and bottled up feelings out of Tele during their sparring matches.

After realizing this he would just rant to Amphinomus about it making multiple lists with all the cons and pros about each and who would be the best to date/marry. It would end up in more frustation since he cant choose with Amphinomus saying Peisis is the best option while also being like "this guy is a mess" in his head and give him his full support anyways and help him as best as he could.

[Modern au]

Telemachus would be a pathetic kid and cry a lot. He would seek comfort in Apmhinomus who would try to "man him up" but would fail after Tele was just always scared when he was a young kid. He was to scared to talk to people who werent his family or Amphinomus and would just quietly stand next to family or Amphi and let them do the talking which makes it akward when Amphi tried to make Tele interact with other boys his age and Tele would just stand there like 🧍‍♂️. After a while he managed to make 1 friend (Peisistratus) who he would hang around with but would also just quietly stand next to him and listen to hkm talk most of the time

I would write more but my body hates me to much to actively use my brain without thinking i ran a olympic marathon 😓

Over a week late but I hope you’re feeling better now!! Being sick sucks lol (I’m sick rn and instead of resting at 2am I’m replying to my asks <//3 ) so no worries! Take care of urself first :3

That’s so adorable for Hermione and Tel, making me fall in love with family dynamics fr. Her giving him help to bond with Ody too <3 I love them bro, family dynamics are always so fun, especially when they’re actually together and helping each other (though I do love myself angst too)

More girl dad hell yeah!1 These two are genuinely so adorable I cannot lie, Amphi would give her all the attention and love she wanted even if he was exhausted from a long day. Best father figure ever. The weekend fun too!! I love them omgs, totally watch MLP together or play a card game like top trumps. Father daughter duo ever I swear the cuties

TelePei are defo the fluff couple, listener x yapper type duo. U der the night sky, Pei rambling about some nerd shit and Tel looking at bro fully enamoured by the guy, or finding it so comforting that he can easily fall asleep in Pei’s arms. Picking flowers and picnics. Just adorable, totally agree

With Neo too, also 100% agree. The fighting and training together, can also see Neo potentially giving king advice since he rules over his fathers kingdom. I also think they’d help each other out by helping with overcoming living in their fathers shadows, breaking out of expectations and living how they want (with Pei giving the advice to do so, makes them a trio cutely). Also with the arguing, I totally see them arguing over the dumbest shit and holding a grudge jokingly for the next week

Amphis reaction to all this is totally me HAHA, just pure “man…this guy needs help” while tryna assist the poor guy with his feelings, they’re brothers and best friends your honour, no doubt

Telemachus is such a guy, nothing will change my love for his social awkwardness. He’s just tryna get through life without talking to ppl, which won’t work but at least he’s gave that an attempt, one day the kid will talk 🙏, but Amphi and Pei doing all the talking is so accurate this is canon fr

[crusherthedoctor]

top 5 favorite female sonic characters?

5. Marine - In this house, we don't put up with Marine slander. >:[ I've always liked her and found her legitimately funny, and I never understood why people give her flack for her accent and lingo, since you never see them do the same with Bunnie. Because rules for thee, but not for a Freedom Fighter.

4. Cream - Not just because she's always OP in gameplay... but it helps. She's a sweetheart, what else is there to say? Shame it took a while for her to gain a good voice... which we proceeded to rarely hear because she barely appears in games nowadays. ;_;

3. Blaze - The Silver thing aside (yes, I'm always going to be a grumpy bear about that), I still think she's great, and I really like her interactions with Sonic in the Rush games. Plus, she's a cat, and I like cats. ;P As someone who likes Blaze for her actual character, it pains me that SOME writers like her just because she can fight, implying Amy, Rouge, Cream, etc can't. This simplification is as much of a disservice to her as it is to them.

2. Tikal - She may not have had much screentime compared to others, but as evidenced with Cream, I always like a sweet character, and her design is better than every single Penders echidna. Also, she's cute. :>

1. Rouge - She's fun, she's intelligent, and her depth and overall good heart is frequently underestimated. You can tell this because fans who claim they know the franchise by the back of their hand like to portray her as an actual villain, which never fails to kill me inside. :D

Honorable mention to Helen, because of course. I've also gained more appreciation for Elise and Shahra recently; the former because of how mentally strong she is despite not being used all that well in the game proper, the latter because of her relationship to Qui-Gon Djinn, and because her relationship with Sonic is kinda sweet. I want to like Tangle and Whisper, cause I'm fine with the basic concepts for them, but the execution left them as a flanderized idiot and a nightmare face dispenser respectively. RIP to their potential.

Amy... you guys know where I've been standing regarding her as of late. The combo kill of IDW, Frontiers and Prime has really made it hard to remain enthusiastic about her for the time being, which in turn made me look back at her portrayals in the past, which I realised I would only consider a small handful of them truly A-tier compared to the selection for certain other characters (read: Eggman). Maybe in time, assuming she gets better portrayals, her spark can light up again, but currently... I can't muster it unfortunately.

[devonsrugbyexgirlfriend]

Jess Watches // Sun 31 Dec // Day 100 Synopses & Favourite Scenes & Poll

Orphan Black (rw with mum) 5x05 Ease for Idle Millionaires

While Sarah and Kira spend time at home bonding, Cosima unlocks the island's biggest secret, discovering a link between the village's so-called creature and the science around Kira.

“The privacy we got to have in that scene, where the camera is swirling around us… it just felt so right. It was internal, it was private, and it was felt as opposed to looked at. Felt very empowering to explore the love of these two women this way.” - Tatiana Maslany

“It was really just Tatiana and I connecting, and every take was different, but it was the- the fiction making reality. The scene, it- it felt… real. There was something- our connection as actors and as characters just sort of… [pause] yeah, just, on fire. And so, that was one of the most beautiful, and intense, and magical moments of my career.” - Evelyne Brochu

"A marvelous moment happened early on, maybe the second take… Evelyne lifted Tatiana up so that she was holding her, which made Tatiana taller than her. That sort of shift in the physical dynamic is so evocative for the viewer — to go from Cosima looking up to Delphine, to being level and finally above. If we had cut to a wide shot you would have seen Cosima’s legs wrapped around Evelyne’s waist. Evelyne literally lifted Tatiana up, and it was just a breathtaking moment. And while I let each scene evolve in its own way, I said, ‘Make sure you lift her up because that’s fantastic. " - Helen Shaver

Unprisoned (with mum) 1x03 Are You My Mother Wound?

With Edwin back in her life, Paige must confront her "mother wound" - leading to a housewarming dinner that turns into a competition for her love.

Little Paige stealing every scene she's in. She is so talented. And her actually interacting with Adult Paige was a fun addition to their dynamic. Paige's family is dysfunctional af but they really do seem to love her which is really nice. I also noticed Shiri Appleby directed this ep and last 👀.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (rw) 3x10 Amends

As the Christmas holiday approaches, Angel is tormented by evil apparitions who want him to eliminate Buffy.

The 5-episode hot streak had to end some time I guess. An episode of Angel moping about pathetically. Bored now. When Buffy and Faith making peace and potentially having a genuine connection was right there. It was literally written like she invited her girlfriend home for the holidays, and we barely go to see any of it.

Heartbreak High 1x01 Renaissance Titties

Amerie, the new outcast, receives a party invitation that gives her butterflies. But when she manages to show up, a bitter surprise awaits.

Why was the photo of her and Harper nearly kissing the one Amerie zoomed in on? And to help Quinni get Sasha's attention why was Amerie's solution to try and kiss Quinni? And why did Harper not play a love song outside Amerie's window to try and win her back?

[lolipoptheclown]

Ranting about my Spooky Month OCs cause I love them

(this will be very long)

Michelle

My first Spooky Month OC, she is kind of more of a self-insert than an OC though. She has blonde messy hair, I have blonde messy hair, she only ever wears sweaters, I only ever wear sweaters, she loves clowns, I love clowns, etc. She is also the only one who doesn't have a last name. I can't choose one that would fit her lmao. She has a reoccurring nightmare, but she always forgets it when she wakes up. She has the third most tragic backstory probably, and when the new episode comes out she's gonna be having a great time:333

Carolynn Parker

My second one. She actually is a replacement for my ex-bestfriends OC, which is why she doesn't have too much lore, causing her to not really have a very traumatic backstory. Her only actual issues is that she's insecure and she hates her job lmao. I had to create her so I could continue with Michelle's story, she is very much a side character. I love her though, she's so silly. Her and Michelle are kinda sibling coded lol.

Castor Hemlock

Third OC. Coming up with his name was probably the most difficult part. He is actually named after 2 plants. The Castor Oil Plant and the Water Hemlock, cause, you know, he lives in the woods. He's definitely my favorite, I love drawing him so much. He's my only OC that doesn't hate Bob Velseb, is actually friends with him. He is also kinda friends with Skid and Pump too. He doesn't know about Bob trying to kill them, if he did figure it out then he would've probably killed Bob himself tbh. Scares people for absolutely no reason other than to be annoying. He is always full of anxiety, under constant stress for like no reason. He has a reoccurring nightmare about Eyes. He can also transform his body to look more scary, growing fangs and claws, and his eyes turning black with white glowing pupils. Usually it's unintentional, because it usually happens when he's like way too stressed for his own good. He gets this thing where his teeth feel like they are itching, which usually causes that to happen. He's a bit too silly sometimes. He doesn't mean to cause any harm to anyone though, he tries his best to keep himself in check.

Helen Collins

(warning for mentions of how she died)

My newest one, I created her last night actually. I don't have much for her story yet, still working on it, but I have a few ideas. She is a zombie, but is not aggressive. She doesn't eat anything, and she barely ever blinks, which causes her to not see very well. She is usually extremely calm. She used to be the most aggressive and anger-driven person ever, but after not getting much social interaction for like years, her concept of emotions has kind of been destroyed. If she finds herself needing to escape a situation, she can turn herself into a ghost and run away. Nobody can see her when she does that, except if she chooses to let you. She was strangled to death. She also has autopsy scars, and she can't put herself under too much physical stress or else it will hurt her. She mostly just wanders aimlessly at night, and goes back to her grave at sunrise. Castor has tried to scare her once but he pulled away because of how fucking cold she is LMAO. If you live close to the graveyard she has most likely watched you sleep (she isn't trying to be creepy, she just has literally zero social skills).

That's all!!!

[pbandjesse]

I do not know what but my leg is hurting very much. It started yesterday and it hasn't improved. Even with James trying to squeeze and massage it. Hopefully I just like twisted something weird and I'll be okay soon. Cause it's really uncomfortable.

But today was a nice day. And it's Jess's birthday! She finally joined me in being in her thirties. And she got the flowers we sent her! Poster above, they are shaped like a cat and we though they were hilarious.

I slept alright last night. And felt a little better this morning. James had loaded up the car already. I was slow to start. But got myself together and we headed out.

We beat the rain. But it would be on and off all day. And after we got breakfast James helped me set up my table.

The pavilion was all wet but Ann had worked hard on brushing the water away with the broom. But I wouldn't notice a new puddle showed up under my chair and the whole bottom of my dress got soaked and it kept sticking to my legs and it was cold and terrible. I would survive but only barely.

Callie was at the market today working for Helen. It was so fun having a friend there. And it wasn't a terrible day. I made my break even sale goal, but it was slow. The rain didn't help I'm sure. But there were good waves of people.

And I had fun. Sewing. People watching. Chatting with CJ. I had my two little friends come and I showed them how to sew and let them work on some of my keychain bears. I will be redoing them but it was fun to let them do it.

I did have a slightly stressful interaction with some kids who wanted to buy keychains and their parents said yes but then wanted me to change the pins to keychains and I did but then the kids changed their minds and had meltdowns about wanting pins still. There was a lot of screaming?? But it was fine. I am glad they liked my stuff.

It started storming really hard and it got really loud for a while. But it would calm down again. And as 1 came around we started packing up. And then it started raining again and I got all wet carrying everything to the car. Ah well. It wasn't to bad.

I went and said goodbye to James. And then I went home.

When I got back here I would collect my dried flowers and put some new ones in my books. Callie let me keep some that fell on the group. And had my leftover chipotle from last night.

I got changed and laid down. And would eventually fall asleep.

I woke up when James came in. I told them to wake me up for real when they got done in the shower. And I would take my time getting myself together. James had two podcasts to do today. And once I was up and dressed I left.

I drove out to joann's to buy yarn. They didn't have the colors I wanted but I got black and that's fine. I went to savers next and had a weird interaction when I asked to get by someone and they were really rude. They were blocking the whole aisle and I waited a little but they weren't moving so I asked politely to get by and they made a fuss backing up to make room and then said I should have gone down a different aisle??? No?? You don't own the whole store?? It out a bad taste in my mouth. I hadn't had my headphones in but I would put them on now because I didn't want to hear nasty people anymore.

I would end up finding two more skeins of yarn that were brand new and the brand I like. $3 a piece! So I was very pleased. And I found a little white towel rack (?) That was only $2 and I am going to use as camp and I was very pleased. And older lady, as I was leaving the store, told me it was a really cool find!

I checked out and went over to the goodwill. There I found a dress for the Ren fair. And had a nice conversation with the woman at the counter. She thought using the dress for the Ren fair was a great idea.

In the car I decided I wanted a pretzel. But the Towson mall was closing soon. So instead I drove out to white Marsh mall. And got a piece of pizza and a pretzel and walked around the mall for an hour. Smelling all the lotions at bath and body works. Looking at the jewelry and makeup at Claire's. Enjoying that goth fashion is back at hot topic. It was fun.

At 730 I went home. Getting back here at 8. As James was finishing their podcast. While they did that I played with making my Ren fair outfits. And soon would go and take a shower.

Me and James have been hanging out in bed since then. I am cozy and happy.

And tomorrow is the first day of camp!! I'm excited. I hope it's a good day and everything goes smoothly. Wish us luck. I love you all. Goodnight!!

[ia-practicum]

Interview Post: Conducted February 25th

This is Kate, my supervisor overseeing my internship.

Introduction

Currently, my field of study is children’s and young adult librarianship, and I’ve been able to learn a lot about it through interning at Helen Hall Library. Key things to note in this field consist of shelving, organization, programming, but most importantly people and management skills. When crafting my interview questions, I aimed to locate the highs and lows, possibly challenges, moments for celebration, and good pieces of advice to carry me forth in my career. I didn’t want to try and focus towards receiving one specific answer and wanted to hear about Kate’s experience in the field and take advice from these moments. Some questions provided some insight into how the library handles situations, and others provided realistic expectations of what to expect when entering the field of work. During one of my shifts, we set some time aside for us to sit in Kate’s office and spent about 50 minutes talking and going through the questions. I greatly enjoyed discussing these questions with Kate and listening to her experiences and advice, taking note of the key takeaways for each one.

The Interview

What has been your favorite part of working in this field?

Kate stated that her favorite part of working in the library field is the people and community that surrounds it. There’s a different interaction each day, some of them bringing something new that keeps Kate on her toes. She also enjoys being a helping hand for both parents and kids and being a source of encouragement to parents, the “human to human” encouragement as she described it. Even if it’s something as small as reassuring a parent they’re doing a good job during one of the early childhood programs, Kate believes it makes a big impact. It helps cultivate a safe space in the library, and helps the patrons learn that they have a community within it. Both parents and kids have a place in the library, and Kate loves being able to express that to the patrons and make them feel seen. It gives everyone the same footing and allows them to feel like they belong.

What has been your least favorite part of working in this field?

Kate’s least favorite part of working in the library field has been budgeting, trying to stay within the numbers, and needing to justify purchases to the city. Thankfully, she’s had good friends and fellow staff members that support her and lift her up when it’s needed, but sometimes trying to figure out how to justify the purchase and make the provided numbers work can be draining. The purchases must be justified to people that aren’t in the library at all times, which can be tricky because while the children’s librarians are in there and know what they need, the people the purchases need to be justified to aren’t. It’s especially tricky with digital and leasing materials, as they’re not widely understood by people that aren’t within the library field. Kate describes how people don’t understand that leasing copies of a book that’s been anticipated for months is better than buying all the copies, because they can return the leased books after the craze dies down. This sometimes requires lengthy discussions that could take some time to work out. Not to mention, on top of needing to thoroughly explain their justifications for the purchase, they have to deal with liability concerns and remember that they’re purchasing for the community, not one group.

What is something that’s not widely talked about regarding this field, but you think should be?

Kate believes that the two things that aren’t widely discussed but should be are supervising and the trauma that can come from the field. She recounts how in library school, the concept of supervising was barely touched on. There was a lot of discussion of management, but not a lot over supervising a team. Thus, librarians end up being thrown into the supervising position and don’t feel prepared for it. She describes the position as inevitable and emphasizes that future librarians must be prepared in order to prevent burnout and trauma. Without direction, librarians could learn bad habits from poor bosses, and could very well also end up stretched then. Kate suggests that there should be a focus on gaining more supervising skills while in school in order to prepare librarians for that inevitable supervising position.

What’s been the most rewarding part about working in this field?

The most rewarding part about working in the library field to Kate has been getting to work with Family Place and empower parents. She had to work on a grant for it with Darla and Meredith, who are city librarians, and seeing that their hard work paid off when they were listed as having the highest scoring recipient of the grant. Kate says that it felt incredibly rewarding to see that not only did they get the grant, but seeing so many months of work granting them this achievement made it all worth it. Then, the actual Family Place workshops themselves have been rewarding as well because Kate loves being able to empower parents. She recalls a pivotal moment where she was sitting in a workshop and talking with a regular attendee that thought she was failing her youngest child, and Kate was able to lift her up and help her realize she wasn’t failing. It’s stuck with her ever since it occurred, and had grown into Kate disliking the criticism around parents trying their best. It’s pushed her further into working to encourage and empower them, and these workshops really help her do that. 

What has been your biggest challenge working in this field so far? How did you overcome it?

I knew inevitably, book banning and censorship would be mentioned somewhere in this interview, but I learned a lot about it here. Kate’s biggest challenge so far has been facing censorship and an outspoken group with little to no support from the city council and mayor. She recounts how they brought up the challenge system for this group to use, and then how it was picked apart and scrutinized for every detail and wanted a whole separate committee to review challenged books instead of the library board. It was a rough period to work through, and Kate did her best to shield the team and inform them about any shifts or changes that occurred. With lots of prayers, cursing, and support from the rest of the children’s team, the challenge system was able to finally be deemed enough, and even then it’s only been used to formally challenge books 3 or 4 times. Kate also makes sure that any controversial books that are ordered are backed by good, solid reviews, even more so now with all the scrutiny. She says that it’s just been a “one foot in front of the other” process, and sometimes the best thing you can do is to just get through it until it’s over.

What piece of advice that you received when starting your work in the field has stuck with you the most?

The first thing Kate said was to not bend the spines, but then took a moment to think back to when she had first started working part-time at a library in the summer of 2010. Ultimately, what’s stuck with Kate is how she realized that being a librarian wasn’t just about the books through watching her boss and how she connected with the community. She fell in love with that aspect of creating community, and it pushed her forward in her library journey. Now, Kate strives to do the same thing by connecting with the library community here and having conversations with patrons. She remembers something her boss from back then had said, which was “get out from behind the desk and get out there” and Kate has stuck to it. She passes that advice onto the children’s library staff here and encourages them to get out from behind the desk, and she makes sure to use it for herself as well. Being a librarian isn’t just about the books and being a point of reference, it’s about making connections and cultivating community. 

Conclusion

There was a lot of information learned from this interview, but that simply meant I was able to learn a lot about the field from the experiences of a professional and get a realistic look at what working in the library field looks like. The most useful information though is the importance of people and community in the library and the librarian’s role in that, as well as needing to learn supervising skills and prepare for a supervising position. Kate’s former boss’ advice about getting out from behind the desk is going to be sticking to me as well, and I’ll be carrying that into my career. Cultivating the library community is an important factor to the position, and empowering parents and kids will play a large and important role in that as well. It’s not just about the books, and there’s nothing to lose when leaving the desk to go and help a patron or have that discussion. The mention of needing supervising skills is also important, as it provides me with something new to learn that isn’t touched on in the coursework of the program. With this information under my belt, it helps me better anticipate and prepare for a career in the field after graduation. 

[feistypuppythatwantstowatchball]

My observation of the situation as it stands right now. (watch me change my mind tomorrow)

Helena's focus right now is too keep all fandoms content. She knows not to fuck up with Zeudi because losing Zelena will take her chance to win away. She will continue to have cute interactions with Javi and Zeudi for shipper fans and during puntata's she will stand by herself for her Heleners. But she won't commit to a relationship inside. She will do the bare minimum script wise to not have production completely on her bad side.

She is playing the game hard whilst trying to build a foundation with Zeudi they can build on further outside, be it friendship be it romantic.

Zeudi will stay around but she will be less and less affectionate with Helena to protect herself. For now I don't see her ever trying another relationship inside but never say never because that girl is just living her life in there with no gameplan. If there is an interest, she will explore it and I wont blame her. Zeudi will continue to piss production off tho, its her new hobby.

BUT something must be off between them or they must be telling people stuff we don't hear. Because absolutely nobody in that house supports or sees a relationship between them two. Its not just the homophobes, its everyone. I would like to ignore all their opinions but its something that's weighing on me. If Helena ends up just pretending to have feelings she is a fabulous actress.

Conclusion: If Helena treats it like a game, I will view it as just a game and I already feel myself detach emotionally by realizing all this. Will continue this show from a distance and just enjoy the soap opera of it all. The drama in itself with emotions s just hilarious.

And in the end, its all Rosalinda's fault.

[msmadhatter52785]

Breathing Under Water

A/N FOUND ON PINTREST USING AS AELLA LIKENSS I DO NOT OWN

Captain Price P.O.V.

I talked Helen into convincing my god daughter into coming to the base for a couple days. I know she would refuse if I asked her straight out, there is no love lost between the two of us. I can’t say I blame her she hardly knows me but it is my job to keep track of her. Helen agreed saying we had to have bon fire as a welcome party. Some days I believe she knows Aella better than anyone. I’m never nervous well not on the outside except when I’m trying to handle Aella I don’t do kids.

“Hey Cap! We have the bon fire ready and Helen says she’ll be here in about and hour. So, is it safe to assume Aella is the visitor?”

“Yes, Soap it is Aella, and she is to be staying for a couple days.”

He starts laughing “She didn’t agree to that I know your god daughter well enough.” I shake my head knowing Soap is right I wish things go smoothly with her but she is the most difficult person to understand at times. I sigh drowning the whisky in the glass that I just poured as I get the message they arrived. I go out and greet Helen and Aella of course even though she barely responds.

“How has she been Helen?” she fiddles with her sleeves trying to act like this freezing cold air is the issue. She starts picking at her fingers avoiding the question.

“Helen I asked you a question.” I speak in a authorize tone making her look up and straighten up just like any given solder except maybe Ghost.

“Her mental health hasn’t been good sir and the ex-boyfriend even though he hasn’t done anything major yet I suspect it won’t be long before he does. Also, they are looking for intel on her Sir.” She is simi close to Aella given this I trust her judgement but not enough to watch over her fully. I watch my men engaging with her trying to decide who to task with this job. I turn to the base and head to Ghost room knocking only once before he opens.

“Fire is going Helen and Aella are here as well. I’m not asking I’m giving you an order. Also, when she leaves you are to go with her I have word Urzik have their intel searching for her. I only trust you to keep her safe at all times.” I say simple and straight to the point, he met Aella years ago and I’m quite curious how they will interact this time. I can’t trust Soap to watch over her for two main reasons, 2 he will try and seduce her and main reason she can easily manipulate him. She may seem like a shy innocent naïve girl but she is not I’ve seen her manipulate my men faster than anyone granted just for fun between them more like a game. Ghost nods closing his door behind him walking out to the fire I stay back and watch my god daughter. It is nice to see her smiling and laughing it is hard to admit but she is no longer a little girl she is grown woman of nearly 29 to be exact.

[the-timeless-founder]

So I saw this post about shipping Saeclus and La'ela or Aurora. And I'm really curious of what it would be like if Saeclus met La'ela and Helen. Will he? How would he feel about them? How does he feel about Aurora?

I would definitely like for him to meet La'ela or Helen, but I can't say anything because this depends on how @nutaella-kookie, the owner of those OCs, feels about this and what she thinks, but since he definitely meets Aurora and I've had this fic planned for a while now, I can give you this fic that describes how he feels about Aurora and just, another interaction between them.

I will say though, that kookie owns all rights to Aurora, and if / when you read this, kookie, and feel as though Aurora has been misunderstood or misrepresented in any way, please tell me. I'll change it immediately.

I do hope that everyone enjoys this though ❤️

Spring Blossoms and Autumn Leaves

"General." He smiles softly, his eyes cast at the other party, a nod following the turn of his head in polite acknowledgment. "I had not expected to see you here - a pleasant surprise."

Meeting again at what ruins and broken down structures that remained of the once-glorious city of Kralle, capital of Adlerland, was far from the ideal. And yet, it suited the life the two of them had been leading to a degree.

Remnants of lost kingdoms and declining people. Standing tall, not so proud any more. And wanting more than anything to go home.

"Sir." Aurora's expression has shifted from the pained one she wore before. Now it was one of surprise. Though even this look passed quickly. It seems she's become so tired that holding on to any feeling besides grief has become a pesky chore.

He can't say he blames her.

"It's a delight to see you unharmed again, though we could wish for a better scenery."

She seems to agree with that, her eyes refusing to meet the rubble around her again, instead fixated on his own golden gaze.

"As it is to see you again, sir. But... Why would you roam the ruins like this?"

"I have no other task to attend to these days." He hums - sorrowfully, if one paid enough attention - and continues. "The recording of history in its true, pure form also means observation. Of the battle, the ruins that follow, the refugee camps that become of the losing party..."

He halts his words there, and instead casts his eyes to the young Adler General. Aurora's eyes reflect what's left of the city - hollow with grief and haunted with what-ifs and maybes. Perhaps he should have left that last detail out.

Though, that would not have hindered the woman from thinking of the starving and freezing people she once proudly served, would it? Aurora is many things to many people, but a fool she has never been.

"How come you visit the ruins?" He decided to pose a question, to snap her out of where her train of thought would be headed - he knew well it would lead her only towards more despair. "And with the King of Vampires at that. I don't suppose you're awfully fond of each other."

Aurora's face barely changes, but he can still spot the bitter distaste she has for the Gold Blooded King - as the historians named him, though Saeclus preferred his much more sinister and forgotten name; the White Dread - as she speaks.

"I suppose you've spotted the dragon. We left it to hunt, and now he has gone to retrieve it from nearby. It would have been best to let it feed and rest itself for the journey ahead." Aurora states, quite the cold disinterest in her tone regarding the matter.

"A journey from here? Quite the odd place to start from."

"Not if you wish to travel the Black Mountains of Al'ahraish."

Saeclus feels his eyes go wide at the words. And for a few moments more, he stares at the General - whether hoping for his ears to have failed or for her to say more, he isn't sure. He now turns fully to the Adler, striding forward so he stands only a few paces away from Aurora, his eyes bearing into hers with a cautionary gaze.

"I would advise against it." He says, first, and then clears his throat. That was rash, he would do well to be less vague. General Aurora has always been strictly practical and reasonable, not one for an appreciation of vague thoughts and half-sayings.

"The Black Mountains are a dangerous, unruly place. Home to some of the most feared and yet revered demons in our world's history. No party has ever departed for the mountains and returned in whole. Some would deem it unwise to venture a place so discordant alone with a man whose unworthiness of trust is only rivaled by his cold cunning."

Aurora seems to ponder and linger on the words for a moment or two more. Then, her gaze settles on a nearby ruin of what was once a house, her voice firm when she responds. "I have decided to go. I said I would lead him beyond, and I will do so, and then I will return to my... House."

The fact that she purposefully replaced the word 'home' did not escape Saeclus, and he breathes for a moment. He's always found her determination and bravery remarkable, even if it's been denied by many.

After all, who could truly say a girl who survived military training, so harsh and gruesome that it brought tears of blood to the eyes, is not brave? And who could truly blame her for grieving, in cold loneliness, the sheer knowledge that she was to go down in history as a double-crosser?

"Do you hold faith in Karl Heinz?"

"No. But I do have faith in her."

Ah yes. Now it all made sense. This her Aurora spoke of could be no other than the infamous Lady Devyn Kang. He had heard from the Lady herself that she and Aurora have been close companions for years.

"I see."

"Is it bothersome?"

"I don't believe it is my place to be bothered, General Aurora." He smiled softly again, a golden light held within his eyes, her name sounding clear on his tongue. A silent show of trust. "Nor is it my place to decide what you choose is right or wrong. Only time will tell of that. Think of my meddlesome words as cautionary tales - those of a comrade to another's."

He turned to the side, and began to slowly walk to the aforementioned ruins. He could sense the Vampire King walking back towards them. The dragon must have finished its hunt.

"Whatever our souls have endured has not been wholly by choice, as fate twists in cruel and daunting ways."

She may not enjoy poetry much, but that wouldn't stop Saeclus from expressing himself through it. He found a pretty string of words and interpretative yet sincere meanings as close as he could get to a discovery of self. Perhaps that is one reason she dislikes them so.

He turns to her one last time, she is looking back at him now, and offers one last smile. "I should hope to see you back from your trip, General. Perhaps we can meet again in autumn, when the leaves of peach trees begin dancing in the wind, spring long forgotten by nature."

Aurora's face seems to brighten for an instant, the word 'spring' having sparked something within her alive. That's good. It means she is not too far gone yet.

"I would like that. To see spring blossoms and autumn leaves."

Saeclus holds his gaze on her a moment longer and offers her another nod. "Only the unloved and the unnatural would dislike that, and you are neither."

He doesn't turn back again, walking ahead into the ruins, vanishing from sight and aura as though he was never there to begin with.

You are not unloved, Aurora. It was a silent voice, a whisper in the wind, a reassurance that was spoken of not lips but in-between words. And you need not be alone. Let us meet again someday.

In the years to come, Saeclus will think of this short conversation again. He will ponder how his every action may have changed what became of the General Aurora, her kind's greatest. Would his persuasion have mattered had he tried more? Perhaps he could suggest to accompany them? Or should he have followed in silence to observe fate as he had said he does?

But for the moment, he was content with an unspoken promise of another meeting and moved by the power of trusting in another person so strongly. He hoped then that the time had come for her to leave "the Destroyer" behind, and live on as Aurora would want to.

And he could hope for no better fate.