#so i guess its chill to just go there and stay for an extended period of time

[littledeludeddupes]

so transfixed by that map like

armenia: 👍

palestine: 👍

moldova: 👍

puerto rico: that seems too weird we have questions

[lassieposting]

Alrighty things I'm emotional about today: Eskel and the fucking leshen

This leshen is parasitic. It infects Eskel, makes him increasingly unlike himself over an incubation period, and then mutates him completely. I'm gonna suggest that this leshen is based on some variant of cordyceps, an endoparasitic fungus that preys on insects, zombifying them. This sounds a lot like what happened to Eskel, right?

Let's have a look at Eskel's timeline in this episode.

When Geralt finds him fully-transformed, he grits out that he knew something was wrong after his fight with the leshen, but he decided to return to Kaer Morhen anyway, because he believed Geralt/Vesemir could help him.

At this point, Eskel is still almost entirely in control. He made the sensible choice his usual self would make. If anyone will know what to do about his injury, it's Vesemir.

So Eskel goes back to Kaer Morhen. We don't know how long this takes him, but we can make a vague guess. He fought the leshen for six hours, so he probably rested and tried to tend to his own wound before heading home. He's had time to get to the castle, stop to extend an invitation to all the prostitutes, and make it up the Killer. A day or two, maybe?

If you look at him in his very first scene, he doesn't look injured. In any fight, a Witcher will get small injuries. Bruises, split lip, scratches, etc. When Geralt gets these injuries, he tends to keep them for the rest of the episode. There's not a mark on Eskel. All these other little injuries have already healed. So the leshen has had time to start exerting control over him; he's now in a deadly fight for his own body.

Eskel shows up at Kaer Morhen, and Geralt immediately notices that something is off with him. As we see from Geralt's flashback, the "loud, aggressive, fighty" energy Eskel has in most of this episode is not normal for him. He's normally, like game!Eskel, a thoroughly nice dude. They hug, and he asks if Eskel is okay. Eskel hesitates...then pulls away and says that he's fine.

Now, the whole reason he returned to Kaer Morhen in the first place was to get help. Even if he didn't want to publicly announce his injury, Geralt asks him this question quietly and in a way that Eskel could very easily keep it between them. He even looks like he wants to tell Geralt the truth - but ultimately he says nothing. This goes against all common sense for Eskel, but not for the leshen, whose best interests demand that it stay hidden until it has the best opportunity to infect the maximum amount of hosts/spread the optimal amount of infectious spores.

The leshen isn't letting Eskel tell Geralt. He's like a rabid creature who's desperate for water, but his body won't let him drink.

Notably, right after this, Eskel does actually make a reference to his injury. It's said in a jokey way, that the other Witchers should be glad they aren't feeling "the sting of one of those fucking roots", and he reaches for his shoulder when he says it.

So he's wrestling for control right here. He reveals his injury - that's Eskel - and then immediately downplays it, laughing it off - that's the leshen. He's got all this aggressive energy* when he bursts through the doors, then he seems himself again when he greets Geralt, and then goes back into Intimidation Mode when he spots Ciri. He's all over the place in this scene, because for half of it he's not in control of his own body.

(*Notably, from what I read - I am not a botanist, just a nerd - cordyceps does not usually make insects aggressive - to manage population balance, only a few ants from any one colony are infected at any given time. And we see from Geralt's flashback that Eskel is usually pretty chilled and easy-going, so his aggressive energy in this episode is highly OOC. Three possible theories on this:

Cordyceps kills its hosts eventually. Witchers make more resilient/more durable hosts. Making Eskel aggressive is intended to maximise the number of infected Witchers

The leshen is in Eskel's head, so it knows Eskel has brought it to Monster Hunter Central in the middle of fucking nowhere, and it's scared. Eskel is acting out because it knows that the one place it's most likely to be discovered is here.

Eskel is scared. He's a nice guy, but he's still a Witcher, capable of immense violence. Years of experience have taught him to get fighty when threatened, and now he's fighting for his life. Fully conscious, fully aware, while something takes over his body. Anyone would be terrified. )

We see later that Vesemir actually followed up on the hint Eskel dropped. He references that Eskel has "drunk too much for that sting", so he knows that one of his boys is hurt.

But he's like, highkey casual about it, so I don't believe he realises how bad it is, and I don't think Eskel has actually let him look at it. After making it all the way back to Kaer Morhen to get help from Vesemir, the leshen makes him deny he needs it. Interference from Vesemir is the most likely thing to get it discovered, and it can't risk that. Imagine being Eskel, hearing the monster using your mouth to tell the old man that you're fine, to leave you alone, stop fussing, while you're trapped in your own head screaming for help.

By the time the party** happens, he's deteriorating fast. He's practically begging for a fight with Geralt, and ultimately swings for him. He's snappish and short-tempered with the prostitute, especially when she brings up leshens, and even though he backs down from Geralt in the end, something still triggers his transformation and he kills the woman.

By this point, the leshen*** is almost completely in control. Eskel is shut away in his own head, unable to move his own body.

Still, he manages to speak to Geralt. He tells him he knew something was wrong, and he thought Geralt could help him. But this is, like, the last vestige of his ability to hold the monster back. By the time Vesemir arrives, the leshen has swallowed him up completely

** Now, I've seen posts criticising the decision to have this happen at all, when Kaer Morhen is supposed to be a closely guarded secret, which, fair. 1000% Eskel - the real Eskel - knows that stopping enroute to invite a bunch of hookers up to the keep is Not Okay. But it also works, in this scenario? Because what most benefits the leshen is infecting as many hosts as possible, and it would know from Eskel's memories that there won't be many people up at the castle. Just Witchers, a handful of them at best. Inviting more people to come and party fills the castle with potential hosts - and what's more, if it had infected the prostitutes, they'd all go back down the mountain and continue work for a few days unnoticed. Prostitutes meet a lot of people. If the Witchers had been more drunk, or less effective, or if Geralt had actually gone to protect Ciri and Vesemir had faced Eskel alone, the infection would have broken out and spread. The Continent dodged a fucking nuclear bomb here.

** It's also worth a thought that like. This leshen is vaguely implied to be a monolith monster, a new type of leshen. But it's probably not? It's a regular leshen who's also infected by the same parasite it passed on to Eskel. It's not in control either. It's wandered through a monolith into the world of the Aen Seidhe, but it's still just a slave to its parasite, and it's coming to the end of its time as a useful host. Infecting someone or something else is its top priority. That's...quite sad, too.

Anyway yeah I don't think the Netflix writers actually thought about all this or cared about doing his character justice/how OOC they wrote him, and I wish we'd gotten more of him, but. This is my theory and I'm sticking to it

[original-character-championship]

Bracket H Round 1

Poll 24

Skitt & Ena & Olive (@bootsieboots) vs. Apricity Nix (@decapod-appreciator)

495. Skitt & Ena & Olive (@bootsieboots)

skitt usez any, ena usez they/it/she (bc of her eczema), and olive usez he/they

The TL;DR 4 them is that theyre little fucked up guys living in a circus 2gether. Skitt is a repressed traumatized clown amphibian, Olive is a sweet jackalope who acts like an asshole as a defense mechanism, and Ena is a chaotic little shithead w a short fuse, whos actually secretly the mom friend. I like to put them in2 situations in my head and then never write said situations down. Also theyre all aspec and trans.

Skitt:

he is simply a little guy! (puts him thru the horrors puts him thru the horrors p) Oh, hes a bit fucked up actually.

-a mishmash of basically any amphibian features i think r cool! It is also a clown! Isnt that silly? Well its actually 4 trauma reasons. Lol. lmao.

-has rejection sensitive dysphoria and wants every1 2 love him so much all the time. Cries and throws up when it inevitably doesnt work out.

-ADHD!

-super in2 fashion and makeup. Can u guess why? Trauma reasons, of course! Honestly most of her hobbies r rooted in wanting 2 escape something.

-i cant think of anything else non-spoilery 2 put here. Uhm. ze really likes bubble baths and swimming.

Olive:

A little skrunkly autismic sourpuss. He wishes that he cud b more sincere w people sometimes, but every past attempt has been met w people shutting them down, in 1 way or another. The only person in the world he feels even mildly comfortable around is Ena (and later on in the story, Skitt).

-acts like an asshole around most people bc theyre used 2 being seen as one. And by asshole, i mean a little quiet, sulking, wet cat in a corner of the room who makes angy faces at any1 who invades their space.

-mute! This is bc bunnies do not have vocal chords. Communicates thru sign language and annoyed noises. Screams when overstimulated. Yes, bunnies can scream, just not using vocal chords. There r also other sounds they can make! (mostly annoyed sounds. He does purr as well! Just like a real bunny)

-very in2 music. Plays the harmonica and other woodwind instruments that r easy 2 steal. Can they play good? Uhm. havent decided yet actually.

-has a sort of heart shaped facial scar and a broken antler he got from entirely mundane causes (antler is permanently broke, dont question how that works bc i dunno).

-very incredibly touch averse, only tolerates Ena’s touch. theyre also fat and very fluffy! Great 4 cuddling! But he wont let u. Sorry.

Ena:

Money gremlin!!! Chaotic anarchist motherfucker!!! Probably owes u money! Is currently being gay doing crime. In this world, 1 does not have to pay/steal 2 survive, but Ena does it anyways 2 fuck shit up and stir the pot.

-escaped from a shitty orphanage w Olive.

-horrible anger issues. If Olive is a sourpuss, Ena is a bomb waiting 4 an excuse 2 go off. This is bc in the orphanage, they learned that no 1 wud listen 2 them unless they scratched and fought and clawed and bit and punched. (and shocked!). Shes generally chill tho, just, its easy 2 get on her bad side.

-sorta the therapist friend, bc its good at telling ppl what they want 2 hear. Her charismatic attitude also helps when scamming people.

-uses prosthetics! In this world, aquatic animals r given the ability 2 stay on land 4 extended periods of time via prosthetics! Want 2 know more? Ask me :>

-basically blind. Electric eels have awful eyesight, and shes no exception! She can only see bright lights and colors. They use electrolocation 2 get around. (please ask me what it is if u dont know, i am v happy 2 infodump abt anything oc related!)

Remember kids, a vote 4 my ocs is a vote 4 disability, queerness, anarchy, the found family trope, little guys being put in situations therye entirely unequipped for, furries, and much more!

Skitt has a triangular dress with purple and yellow split colors, and purple leggings. Pointy, slender legs. A long pointed yellow hat with a little green thingy on top (idk what to call it). Blue eyes with froglike pupils. Minty-green, short, curly hair. A classic clown makeup look (off-white facepaint, a clown nose, and pennywise-esque makeup lines going from the bottom of his eyebrows to the sides of his mouth.

Olive is a jackalope with short, olive/forest green hair swooping over one eye. His eyes are the same color as his hair. Most of their fur is darkish brown, while his belly, his inner thighs, and lower left arm is beige. their right arm, lower legs, and the top of their ears are black. Only wearing black arm warmers thanks to sensory issues.

Ena is a vaguely pirate-themed girlie. Dark brown skinned, with grey arms and greyish legs. Big thicc tail. Mostly black hair. Tattered black shorts and an even more tattered, dark green crop top. Has red eyes and a red sash tied around its waist. Lots of little spots all over their skin. lazy-eyed.

496. Apricity Nix (@decapod-appreciator)

she/her

she's a werewolf she's aroace she stalks people on accident. she didn't know what a crime was until the police went after her. her best friends are a supervillan and a failed actress. she thinks she would make a good detective (she wouldn't). she's fun and friendly and sweet but still a fully thought out character. she runs away from her abusive home to find her sister and in the process finds a whole new family. she even takes down the government.

Pris is a short, pale girl with  black hair styled to look like wolf ears. she has brown eyes with diagonal red pupils and a bit of a snaggle tooth on one side.

[castiel-left-his-mark-on-me]

Hi, Ary, very inactive ex-mutual(i think???) here. Good to see you thriving! ♥ It's been a while since I've dipped my head into cockles stuff. Could I perchance maybe ask uuuuum tf is going on??? lol I see Mish apparently confirmed he used to stay over at Jensen's in Van, and heard newbs were apparently freaking out about it and getting a bit messy, which I get that, business as usual. But I'm also seeing shit about spin-offs? And Jared getting in a twitter fight with Jensen, causing/resulting in stans to going feral and sending hate?? I know you're not as big a fan of Jar, but that's part of why I figured I'd ask you, you usually have a really level head about this kinda stuff. If you don't wanna answer publically, or at all, that's totally chill!

Hey, Rhi! We're still mutuals! Of course we're still mutuals! When I saw the notification of your ask, I was like "Hey! I haven't seen you in a while!" and my husband was like "???" and I said "Tumblr" and he said "Oh."

It was a wild time haha.

In any case, welcome back to the dumpster fire! We are obviously still a mess. So to catch you up, I guess I will start by summarizing both before and after the finale (not sure where you left off so this might be redundant for you) ... basically, it became obvious as the end of the show neared that Jensen was not on board with the plan for the finale; although Jared never stopped singing its praises.

We got confirmation of this during a zoom interview where Jensen said that he actually went into the writers room as well as called Kripke to basically voice how he didn't agree with the direction the final season was going, but he was shot down on all fronts. In another interview, he was asked "What would you tell your younger self going into this career?" And Jensen responded with: "I would tell myself to just keep your head down and do the work" meaning, "Don't try to change things because you can't." I also think that this whole situation is what he wrote "Let Me Be" about for his first Radio Company album, but that is just my own speculation. All of his reluctance, even though he always followed it up with "But I eventually saw the value in the script" or "I came around in the end" (which never sounded sincere, and I don't think he was really trying to sound sincere) made us all very nervous about what was to come for 15x20; and of course, when the last two episodes aired, we saw just how badly they fucked it up.

After the awful finale, the entire fandom became aware of the CW's heavy handed role in the thing, basically squeezing all the life out of SPN to shape it into a ramp from which Walker could launch itself. They not only erased all the love and joy and representation that Cas's love confession gave us, they also tore apart the things that made sense about the bond between Sam and Dean, making it really just about Sam-- and therefore Jared, which of course, Jared seemed to be fine with ... even though no one else was. Misha barely said anything during the finale, and a few of the other actors talked about the show ending in various posts, but Jared tweeted up a storm ... and Jensen? Jensen just sat in sexy-silent resentment of the whole thing. He didn't tweet, he didn't post, he didn't say a word once he no longer had to, and I think that's because he was already going full-steam-ahead on his plans for redemption.

Which brings us to Chaos Machine-- Jensen and Danneel's new production company that is being run by a queer creative director and has a mantra of inclusivity and representation woven throughout it's fabric; and apparently, the first story that Jensen wanted to tell through this new platform is the origin story of Sam and Dean's parents; so last week (?) he announced the upcoming production of "The Winchesters" -- the untold love story of John and Mary. Obviously, John is not the most likable character from the show, so the idea was met with a lot of resentment when it was first announced, but Jensen has gone on to say that he is excited to take on the task of telling the "true" story behind these characters-- the one that makes sense with the pre-established canon and doesn't reject it. So, given that, the idea is being mulled over with a bit more optimism from the fandom.

Who isn't being optimistic though?

Jared Padalecki.

When Jensen made this announcement on Twitter, many of his friends and coworkers congratulated him, but not Jared. Jared responded with a passive aggressive: "I'm happy for you, man, but I wish I didn't hear about it through Twitter." This of course, sent all the die-hard Jared fans into a tizzy and they immediately began asking him if he was serious (hoping it was just a joke-- we all hoped it was because there would be fallout no matter what one's opinion on Jared is). Instead of leaving it there though or just deleting that tweet, Jared went on to tweet some more, saying that he was being serious that he didn't know about the plans for the prequel, and that he was "gutted" that Sam apparenlty wouldn't be included (mind you, this a prequel to SPN... meaning BEFORE Sam and Dean were even born, so how could Sam be included? But Dean is apparently narrating this story so maybe Jared thought Sam should be helping to narrate it? I don't know). But Jared being Jared couldn't just leave that there, he then went on to tweet at Robbie Thompson who was announced as a writer for "The Winchesters" so then Jared went off on him too, calling him "Brutus" and a "coward" acting like Robbie betrayed him (speculation is-- Robbie refused to write for Walker, so Jared is pissed that he essentially chose Jensen over him). He did fairly quickly, remove that tweet attacking Robbie, but of course the damage was done at that point. And it truly only took his first tweet calling out Jensen for some people to be like "Jared-- that sucks if you didn't know but why are you saying any of this publicly?"

As you might know, Jared has had issues in the past with posting hurtful things on social media, and has even used it as a tool for attack before-- calling out customer service agents and public workers that he felt have wronged him, which is bad enough ... but for him to then do the same thing to his best friend of well over a decade? Many people who had once liked him or at least gave him the benefit of the doubt (I used to ...) stopped after this latest twitter tantrum.

However, some people have suspected for some time that J2 had a falling out either shortly before the finale or just after. Their public/social media interactions have seemed awkward, stilted or even non-existent in moments that they normally wouldn't be. In the past year, when Walker premiered, Jensen didn't say much about his friend's new venture other than a "Congrats. buddy" here and there. Later, we learned that Jensen refused to work on the show ... Jared said he make him do it, drag Jensen to the set "kicking and screaming" which made many fans quirk up an eyebrow because, why would Jensen put up a fight unless the two weren't as close as they used to be? And then Jensen moved his family to Colorado (either permanently or for an extended period at least) which is notable considering how he moved to Texas seemingly to be closer to Jared, even buying a house that was near his. All this was just speculation though; but it wasn't until Jared's tweet complaining about not knowing about the prequel that the theories behind them falling out, became less theory and more fact.

The day after his twitter tantrum, Jared tweeted again-- not retracting his statements or apologizing, but instead saying that he and Jensen "talked" and were "all good". Jensen then tweeted too, parroting this statement to some degree, which only made the whole thing even more sour in the mouths of the fans. The fact that Jared didn't apologize for his outburst and throwing his friend under the bus, and also the fact that Jensen-- Mr. Sexy Silence, Mr. Never Tweets, Mr. Tech-Ignorant-and-Proud, actually had to POST SOMETHING saying that he and Jared made up, it just screamed OPTICS. It was obviously the work of agents and PR firms and lots of people going "Look, if you two keep beefing, that will mean the death of both of your projects. Even more people will stop watching Walker, and this SPN prequel will never get picked up due to the scandal." So, the two "made nice" publicly to quell the chaos, but in my opinion, it's all too little too late. Jared started a storm that he can't contain now with a little tweet, and it seems like he knows that too because before he talked about him and Jensen making up, he asked that people "not send threats". He could have just as easily said that he shouldn't have made this a public issue and that he's sorry, but instead, he continued to play the victim and stoke the flames by alerting us all to the damage he's done.

Now, like I said before-- I used to give him the benefit of the doubt. I don't think he's an awful human or that he deserves to be attacked or anything, but he is an adult man with very poor judgment and an obvious selfish-streak a mile wide. He should know better, and he should have more respect for his so-called "friends" and "brothers" than to make them targets to public ridicule. I have a hard time believing that Jensen still sees Jared the way he used to, and I wouldn't blame him a bit for wanting to pull away-- especially when he's moving on to so many new and exciting things. Jared certainly deserves happiness just as much as anyone else, but he went on twitter and basically asked for a scandal, and he got one.

The question is now-- was there a motive behind it? Was just looking for a reason to bring his and Jensen's falling out to light-- while making himself looking like the victim in the process? Or did he genuinely not know about the prequel and just decided to go about "not knowing" in the most toxic and hurtful way he could manage?

In any case, that is the drama ... that is the J2 insanity in a rather lengthy nutshell ... that is the tea ... and I hope it all makes sense.

But the good news out of all of this is, Cockles is thriving-- they are happy and in love and Jensen calls Misha "Babe" and Misha misses waking up to see Jensen in the morning, and they are just as cute and wonderful as can be.

So, I will end that there. I am so glad to see you back, and I hope I answered all your questions in a way that made sense ... I tried anyway!

💖💖💖

[jungkookiebus]

The Lord’s Kiss | jjk

Genre: supernatural x smut x period piece Pairing: vampire!jungkook x reader Rating: 18+ Word Count: 5.1k Warnings: blood play, fingering, mentions of death, stockholm syndrome? Summary: You shouldn’t have stayed in the village for as long as you did. The woods are dark as you try to make your way home, only to be walking in circles. Is it convenience or fate that a stranger is now offering you help? With him, you seem to step into another reality all together.

The night was cold and the air bit at your skin. Ice cracked beneath your feet as you walked along the path towards home. It clung to the dead leaves and grass that still sprouted in spots through the dirt. The woods around you were dark and ominous, quickening your pace. The lantern you held swayed in your hand. The flame inside created a macabre dance of shadows against the trees that had you jumping when paired with the snap of a twig. It had taken you longer in town than you had anticipated, so when you hit the trailhead back home the sun was already dipping below the horizon. Your family would probably soon worry about you. Pulling your shawl even tighter, you hoisted the basket you were carrying a little higher and tried to walk even faster; even to the point that it was uncomfortable. The lantern swayed on your arm and casted light against twin trees that grew together from the roots. Didn’t you pass that tree earlier? A large, moss covered boulder came into sight and you knew you had been here before. Were you going in circles somehow? You started to stumble as you grew more desperate to find the right path home. You really should have started home before the sun went down and now you were in danger of running into a wolf or worse a—

“What do we have here?” The voice echoed all around you and seemed to be coming from every direction. It wove through the trees before getting closer until it almost whispered in your ear. Startled, you dropped the basket and the lantern which went tumbling down the path before burning out.

“No, no, no, no,” you whispered as you dropped to your knees and crawled towards the lantern. You were an arm’s length away when someone stepped into the path in front of you. You could tell by the shift in the air around you and you froze in place. Night birds and insects silenced their songs with only the wind to remind you that you were in the forest. You heard the telltale sound of the lantern being picked up and seconds later it lit with fire once more. Shiny boots stood in front of you and as your eyes traveled upwards you noticed the person was dressed in expertly tailored clothes.

“Let me help you.” His voice was smooth as cream, but as menacing and sharp as a knife’s edge.

You shrank back when he extended his hand and he laughed. Looking up, you saw that his smile did not quite reach his eyes which made you even the more hesitant. The lantern cast harsh shadows on his face, and he was both beautiful and terrifying. His dark hair was swept off his forehead and his skin was eerily translucent. Eyes as black as pitch stared back at you, but the lantern light seemed to be absorbed into their depths. Your heart quickened and his brow furrowed.

“You’re lost, little one.”

You knew you were lost and all you wanted to do was get home.

“Why don’t you come with me?” His voice had a strange airy quality to it as if he were trying to come off as gentle, but you knew he was anything but.

“I-I know my way h-home,” you said weakly.

He fully smiled now, and his teeth glinted as he held the lantern a little higher. Clicking his teeth, he kneeled to your level smoothly, one knee in the dirt and ice. He leaned forward, coming dangerously close to your face but you were too afraid to move. You had never met another person whose skin was not marred by the sun or work, but up close, his had no blemishes or scars.

“It doesn’t seem that way.”

Unfortunately, he was right. At night, the woods deemed themselves entirely different than the day and you were hopelessly lost. What were your options? Continue roaming the woods, possibly getting attacked by some wild animal or dying in the elements or—you could take your chances with a stranger. Your breath came out shakily and clouded in front of you. The temperature was dropping.

“Are you scared?” he breathed.

You were suddenly aware than when he spoke his breath did not cloud like yours, yet his outward appearance seemed normal. The feeling he gave off, however, was not. Your fingertips began to numb as the night air descended upon you two fold. What choice did you have?

“I’m not afraid.” Maybe, if you seemed strong, he wouldn’t harm you. Thoughts of your family raced through your head. They were probably wondering where you were if not already looking for you.

He held out his hand once more and you looked at it hesitantly. This decision could quite possibly be your last and it made your body all at once hot and cold. Tentatively, you reached out and placed your hand in his. His skin was cold as ice, but you deemed it because of the weather. He smiled again and stood up, pulling you with him.

“Shall we go, then?” He looked at you as if you had a choice, but you knew you did not.

You simply nodded and he let go of your hand in favor of leading the way. The path seemed familiar and strange all at once the further you walked into the forest. It was still silent save for the wind and an ominous chill ran through your body. Never had you heard it so quiet.

“Where are we going?”

“It’s not much further.”

His footsteps were silent where yours crunched along the ice still. You swallowed thickly and tried to keep your head up as you followed him. As if by some sort of magic, the trees seemed to part in front of you and he stepped out onto a rocky overhang that looked down into a valley you had never seen before. Was that always there? Surely you would have seen it before. Nestled amongst the trees stood a stately stone manor with every window lit from within. You stood, shocked, on the ledge and the wind whipped around your skirts and tangled your hair around your face.

“Let us go before you fall ill.”

He struck you out of your astonishment as he stood near a path leading downwards, lantern still swaying in his hand. You followed him and within half an hour you were stood before the large home. You had never seen anything so extravagant before, having lived close to the small village and never ventured into bigger cities. Beyond its high, stone walls stood a decrepit old church that looked as if it had not been used in many, many years. Ice hung dangerously sharp from the roof tiles and the heavy wooden door looked impossible to open. He walked up to a smaller door that was set into one of the large two and opened it. Warm light spilled out into the dark night and inside you saw an impressive hall with two lit fireplaces.

“Are you the lord of this house?” you asked as you froze, looking inside. You were suddenly afraid of trespassing. There were mentions of wars in distant lands and you were afraid to find yourself in the home of some feudal lord.

“I am,” he said smoothly. He had put the lantern out and was patiently waiting for you to enter.

You were still hesitant as you crossed the threshold. Your shoes echoed off the stone floor and into the Great Hall. Tall fires roared and warmed the room, instantly thawing your sore muscles. You heard him softly shut the door behind you before making his way to your side.

“You must be hungry. Follow me.”

In full light you were able to see him a little better. He was richly dressed and clean which meant he had an abundant amount of money, if the manor were any other indication. Large, plush rugs lined the floors of the hall and various chairs and tables were arranged neatly around both fires. Art that seemed larger than life hung on the walls, some were portraits while some were simply landscapes. Other than the two of you, there was no other soul in sight. He walked leisurely and you followed close behind trying to take in as much of the home as you could. A hundred of yours could fit into this hall alone. He turned into a doorway which led you down a hall until you reached an equally stately kitchen with a table and chairs situated inside as well. If you had to guess, there was probably a dining hall close by.

“Take a seat,” he said as he waved his hand towards the table.

He moved fluidly and as if he had all the time in the world. He pulled out a loaf of fresh bread, cheeses, dried meat, and various fruits and brought them to the table. He set them out before you as he grabbed what looked to be a bottle of wine and poured some into a cup. Once he had them out in front of you, he sat across, and looked at you expectantly when you did not move to touch any of it.

“It’s not poisoned,” he laughed.

“Then why don’t you eat?”

His eyes narrowed a little before he composed his expression once more. He drummed his fingers on the table patiently, never breaking eye contact with you. Soon, he sighed loudly as he reached forward for an apple and bit into it. It sounded crisp and juicy. You shuffled slightly in your seat to mask the sounds your stomach was making as you watched him chew.

He swallowed as he sat the fruit down on the table. “See? Not poisoned. Besides, I am not very hungry. Not for that, anyway.”

The way he said the last sentence sent chills down your back, but right now you were too hungry and tired to care.

“What’s your name?” you asked as you reached for the bread.

He hummed as he sat back, placing both feet on the table casually as he watched you eat.

“Jungkook.”

“You’re not from here are you?” The bread tasted freshly made and the crust crunched in your mouth deliciously. Not even your mother made bread this good.

“I’m from a lot of places. Here is just where I choose to be for the moment.”

His answer was odd, but you decided not to press since he seemed to be so aloof. You missed the way his eyes traveled from your face to your neck as you grabbed some of the dried meat. His met yours again as you looked at him.

“You can stay here for the night,” he said as he swung his legs off the table. “It’s much too cold for you to be wandering the woods so late at night. Plus, you never know what you might run into.”

Him? For example. You were not entirely sure he wasn’t a threat yet, but you felt your resolve melting the more he talked and the fuller your stomach became. Sleep clung heavily to your body and the ache in your legs was now a mild, manageable pain. Tendrils of sleep nipped at the corners of your mind. You blinked a little slower.

“My, look how tired you’re getting already.”

He stood from the table and was at your side in seconds. Your eyes drooped and he scooped you up with no issue. Your head lulled against his shoulder as you slipped deeper and deeper. How was this all happening so quickly? You did not have time to answer you own question before you were cloaked in a sleep so deep it could be debated whether you’d come back or not.

Mrow. The sound was distant and familiar. You were still somewhere nestled in the darkness with nowhere else to go. Mrrrow. The sound was a little closer this time and you tried to concentrate on it. Where had you heard that before? Where were you? Confusion hazed your thoughts. Were you at home? Mmmmrrrrrroooooooow. Blurrily, you opened your eyes to a dimly lit room. Heavy, velvet curtains surrounded the bed, but the end was open. You blinked a couple of times to adjust your sight. Next to your legs, sat a large white cat with green eyes. It stared at you inquisitively before meowing again. A fire burned in the fireplace. Oh, right, you were in the manor still. Lightning flashed, lighting up the room in its beautifully terrible display, before it fell dark again, and thunder rumbled in the distance. The cat stood and walked to the edge of the bed before it sat down and meowed again. You scooted closer towards it and it jumped to the ground before turning and waiting. Your feet touched down on an expensive rug. By the light of the fire and the occasional lightning, you could see the room was just as richly decorated as the rest of the manor. The cat meowed again, and you turned to see it sitting by your closed bedroom door.

“What do you want?” you whispered. You still were not entirely sure what to do with your situation. It was clearly still night if not incredibly early morning at this point and a storm was blowing in over the mountains. It would be suicide for you to go out into it. But was there danger within these walls as well?

The cat meowed and you sighed. You tried to walk as quietly as possible. You were not sure what you would disturb, whether it be him or some ghost, you did not want to find out. The door opened silently, and the hallway was lit dimly with candles that lined the walls. The house was dead silent, and you felt a strange chill go through your body. Your curiosity was piqued at the same time you wanted to run as far away from this place as possible. The cat walked lazily down the hallway leading to your right, so you slinked out after it. You did not even want to breathe. You followed it down a few turns of a hallway and the once silent house began to take on life again. Music played somewhere within the home, but behind closed doors. Were those voices? You had never heard a crowd so large before. The cat still walked as if it were not bothered by it in the slightest. The music, some waltz right now, was beginning to grow louder. There was a din of noise as you began to hear laughter and the clink of glasses. The cat now sat in front of heavy, double wooden doors and blinked at you as if it were bored. The voices on the other side were loud, but happy. The music picked up and you could hear dancing. You were pulling open the door before you even had a chance to register what you were doing. The brightness of the room blinded you for a second as you squinted your eyes. When you opened them again you were able to take in the gilded room. It was so unlike the rest of the manor that you began to question where you really were. The ceilings seemed impossibly tall, like the cathedrals father had told you about. A small orchestra was at one end of the room playing music, while hundreds of dancing bodies twirled amongst strange jesters on stilts, aerial dancers unraveled themselves from silk ribbons, and a constant dusting of glitter always seemed to fill the room. Every guest was opulently dressed and not one was without a mask. Some masks covered their whole faces, some half, and some just the eyes. They all ranged from beautiful to grotesque.

“I was wondering when you’d come,” you heard behind you as they handed you a mask. Shocked, you held out your hands, looking at the mask. That was when you noticed that you too were dressed in what seemed to be the finest of silks you had only heard stories of. Intricate flowers were handstitched into the fabric in an array of brilliant colors mixed with gold thread on a background of deep blue. The mask covered your eyes and was as red as blood. Fine crystals were inlaid into the mask, creating a twirling design of jewels that made you look both menacing and beautiful. You turned to see who spoke and it was undeniably your host despite the mask he wore. It covered half his face, but it was crafted beautifully to accentuate his cheekbone, it sloped delicately with his nose, and formed perfectly to drift right past the corner of his mouth, allowing you perfect view to his somewhat crooked smile as he looked down at you.

“You look stunning,” he commented.

“Where am I?”

“In my home.”

He wore a high collared shirt under a deep, rich blue coat that was decorated similarly to your dress. It was paired with dark, high waisted pants that were tucked snugly into shining boots that reached his knees.

“I don’t understand—”

He cut you off by grabbing your hand and led you to the center of dancefloor. He lifted your hand in his and placed the other on your waist as he led you through a waltz. His eyes glittered and shined in the brightness of the room and a fine dusting of diamond powder seemed to cover him head to toe. His dark hair shined under the thousands of candles perched precariously in their sconces. All around you, partners were jovial and laughing as they danced, whispering in one another’s ear while others embraced like lovers. At the edges of the room there were women entangled in the arms of men and even some men touching other men lovingly on their faces as they whispered in dark corners.

Jungkook kept his eyes on your face as you still tried to assess what was happening. The song ended and with it an eruption of cheers from the dancers as waiters came through with trays of drinks. Just as quickly as they appeared, they disappeared again, coming back bearing just as many drinks as before. He stood, still, before you as you watched the celebrating dancers begin to disperse before the next song started.

“Follow me,” he said, extending his hand. You placed your hand in his, and it was warm, inviting, as his hand enveloped yours.

Your thoughts and feelings felt real, but not your own. Something about him warmed you from the inside out as well as sent a stabbing pain of ice through your heart. Your mind told you to run as your body told you to stay.

But what if…?

You shook your head to rid yourself of the thought. His presence seemed to draw you in and keep you there and you felt the edges of the moth’s wing beginning to burn. You winced at the thought of staying here, but the pain was not nearly as bad as before. The crowd around you parted fluidly, filling back in on itself as you passed. No one really looked in your direction; they were caught up in their own worlds, in their own bubbles, completely unaware of anyone around them. You began to question if the scene around you were real. You smelled the sweet scent of champagne, felt it bubble under your nose as the waiter passed, yet the warmth was almost gone from the room.

He pulled you from the brightly lit ballroom, to a small door that blended so well with the wall you did not even know it was there and was pitch beyond where the light reached. He stepped inside and pulled you with him, door shutting quietly back into place. He reached out, pulling your mask from your face. He moved in the dark quickly as if he had the pattern of the house memorized. He took you up several sets of stairs and further away from the party until it was so muted that you had to strain to hear. At the final landing he opened another door. Moonlight flooded the room. The largest window you had ever seen created a clear wall that looked out onto the valley and the surrounding mountains. The moon was full and closer than you had ever seen. A large, heavily draped four poster stood against one wall while an ornate fireplace flanked the other. Large rugs covered the floors and even more beautiful paintings covered the walls. Dark, purple wallpaper that seemed to also be lined in gold covered the walls which also boasted dark wood paneling. Everything about the room seemed warm and mysterious despite his cold hold on yours. He led you across the room until you stood before the large window. Your breath fogged the glass as you gazed wide eyed into the night. An owl swooped past and into the trees, the trees cast ghostly shadows as the moon moved slowly across the sky. Rain began to fall softly as its clouds perfectly framed it.

“This could all be yours,” he whispered into your ear.

You shivered as gooseflesh rose on your arms. That rational part of your brain that had been telling you to run grew quieter and quieter until it was almost gone. Your brain was now connected directly to your heart and for some reason it seized in a way that sent butterflies into your stomach.

Eyes still fixed on the sharp edges of the evergreens, you asked, “What do you mean?”

His lips were warmer than his hands as he pressed them to the base of your neck. You shivered again as he sighed. He inhaled again as if he were smelling a freshly poured glass of wine. His hands were on your upper arms squeezing lightly.

He ran his nose up your neck and let his bottom lip skim your skin. “I’d give you everything you wanted…will you stay with me?”

What was he asking you? Some deep, dark part of you knew exactly what he was asking, exactly what he was, but you had to be wrong. There was no way you were right. His hands slid down your sleeved arms until they reached your wrists. Swiftly, he pulled your hands behind your back while tilting your head back with the other. His lips were on your neck again and you felt him quiver against you. He seemed drunk, but he appeared sober in the ballroom…

“Stay with you?” You wanted him to say it. You did not want to have to face the harsh truth of this and how much you wanted it. Your family would get over you. Right?

His teeth grazed your skin and the ice that you had felt through your heart melted, seeping into your stomach, and downwards. Your body reacted to his touch in a way that scared you.

“_____, you know exactly what I mean,” he whispered. “You knew the moment you accepted my help.”

And you had. His breath did not fog against the glass like yours. Where the wood stairs creaked beneath your feet, his did not. His skin, though warm, had ice beneath its surface.

“Y-your one of those creatures from the s-stories,” you muttered as his grip on your wrists tightened. He seethed against your skin at the word ‘creatures’ and you winced.

“I’m not a creature,” he said as he nipped lightly at your skin, but you felt the warning behind it. “I can create you into something new.” He began to grow excited as he inhaled deeply against your skin once more. His grip loosened a little on your wrists as he became preoccupied with what was underneath your flesh, pulsing in time with your heartbeat which he heard so loudly in his ears. “Stay with me. I can show you the rest of the world, ____. Just let me…” He trailed off as he hotly kissed down your neck, leaving it wet as he began to salivate over your scent.

“Yes,” you whispered, barely above a whisper. Your heartbeat slowed as your body relaxed. It seemed as if the affirmation, the answer to all his questions, was what you needed to do. It felt right. He froze behind you, fingers tightening as he moaned.

“Let me show you…”

His lips trailed to your exposed shoulder as he released your wrists in favor of bunching your dress in his hand. He pulled the hem up quickly, holding it in his hand as he slid it up your bare thigh. He reached beneath finding your center and cupped you gently. You moaned, leaning back into this shoulder. His hand still cupped your jaw, keeping your neck as exposed as possible to him. You were already beginning to soak the cotton of your undergarments as he slid his fingers over you. He nipped a little harder into your neck while he pressed the fabric against your clit. You heard the distinct pop of breaking skin, but the pain never registered as he circled his fingers on you. He laved his tongue across your skin, gathering the first droplets of blood that threatened to spill into your collarbone. He felt the first tingles of electricity go through his body at the taste. It started somewhere in his dead heart and made his fingers feel as if he just touched fire. He slipped his hand through the waistband and now had his skin against yours. You reacted, hips shifting forward as he attached his lips to the bite and sucked lightly. He gathered your slick wetness on his fingers and rubbed over the now swollen bundle of nerves. You had never been touched like this before and you felt high on the experience. He pushed you into his hips as he pressed down on your clit with his palm and pushed two fingers inside of you. You cried a little at the intrusion and he whispered reassurances against your skin that had your body relaxing into his once more. The soreness in your neck was subtle, but there. What masked the pain was the way his fingers curved inside of you exactly right, pushing against something inside of you that had your muscles going lax while all at once so stiff your legs were cramping.

“Do you feel good?” He was pumping his fingers faster now, grinding his palm against your clit. His entire hand was wet, and it made his efforts easier.

“Y-yes,” you muttered as you clung to his wrist. Your other hand was sliding helplessly against the glass.

He could hear your heart fluttering. Hearts beat differently, each had their own unique pattern, just like a fingerprint. But just like people, hearts conveyed emotions like the faces of strangers. Yours beat in a pattern of lust; right where he wanted you. His lips were back at your skin, searching, until he found what he wanted. The vein he needed. The one he had been smelling all night. He took a breath, closed his eyes for a few seconds, suspending time as he meditated. This would be an almost religious experience. He never did choose lightly, but he was sure of this. You would not have to see his teeth sharpen and you were so lost in the feeling of his hand between your legs that you did not really feel his teeth sink deep into your skin. Hot, fresh blood flooded his mouth as he pierced the vein. The taste was all at once bitter and sweet, like a wine with raspberries on the nose and ripe tannins. He drank graciously from you as he curved his fingers at each thrust, pushing you dangerously close to the edge. You had wet the cotton and your thighs as his hand slid faster and faster. He detached his lips, feeling your heart skip a beat. He was not ready for that yet. His lips were wet with your blood and he licked at them greedily. You moaned as your head lulled. You were in a subspace you had never been in before and your body was a mixture of molten warmth spreading from your center and something cold that seeped from where your neck met your shoulder and it spread across your chest. He pumped his fingers until he had you clenching around him. He bit into the flesh of his wrist and brought it to your mouth; your head still laid against his shoulder as your breath shuddered in your chest. He let the dark blood drip across your lips and tongue, and he watched as you instinctively swallowed. Then you winced. He wrapped his arm around your waist as you began to cry out. He ground his palm harder against your clit as he licked at the blood leaking down your shoulder. Your entire body was shuddering as you began to feel too many things at once. You came around his fingers so hard your vision blackened, then a sharp pain in your chest ripped through your body all at once. You cried again as your knees gave way. With his arm still around your waist, he dropped to his knees with you. He leaned back, bringing you to his chest as your eyes rolled back and your body convulsed in his arms. Nestling your head into his lap, he brought his hands to the sides of your face as you laid out before him, arms at your sides, as you felt your heartbeat slow. His face hovered above yours, his dark eyes fixed on your face as he watched your lips quiver. They seemed to be turning blue and your shuddering breath began to slow. He listened intently as your breathing weakened and your once strong heart slowly began to die out. He closed his eyes, hands still gentle on your face, as your entire body slumped in death, the last beat of your heart echoing in his ears. He sat patiently, waiting, as he evened his breathing and concentrated. He reached out with his thoughts, searching yours, waiting for those first few tendrils as the disease took you. A new life breathed within you. A light blossomed, something that he felt more than saw, and it spread through your body like melting snow. Life came back to your limbs as your fingers moved, then a slight movement of your foot. He heard you sigh as you took a breath. Slowly, your eyes fluttered open and you were looking into his endlessly dark ones. He smiled, and it was genuine, as his palms pressed into your skin. He leaned down, placing a metallic kiss to your cool lips.

“Welcome back, my love, I’ve been waiting for you for a long time.”

[shyrose57]

Brothers anon, sorry its been like 2 days since I last submitted something! I've been busy and whenever I finally had time to sit down and write this all its like 1 in the morning. I hope its still ok for me to send these.

🌹 anon ima respond to you first, your The Deal au could be the reason why and how Ranboos and Dreams soul got mixed and linked together. But then a problem is how did it pass to Ranbob? In my au, each person has their own soul basically. And while certain attributes like DNA can be passed through bloodlines, souls can't, as their unique to their person. 

What left Ranbob vulnerable to Dream is that he was seen as the star student. The apprentice everyone wanted. He always got perfect grades and was seen as the smartest in the City. This did not go well. As Ranbob was put under a ton of pressure to always stay perfect and get everything right. When his grades started to slip and his chosen mentor started to put even more work on him, his mentality started to suffer. With him losing sleep and starting to not care for himself or do the basic necessities like eating or drinking, all in an effort to be "perfect". Its through this need, and weakened state over all, Dream's presence was able to slip in and convince him to let him help.

Benjamin is 30, Isaac 29, Cletus is 24, and Charles is 27. 

When Ranbob first told Ran about the Dream mask and how he wasnt himself, Ran did not believe him at all. And kept saying that he needs to stop lying and fess up to what he did and pay for it. Others tried to convince him that his brother really wasn't in control of himself, but was met with strong skepticism, scoffs, and disbelief. With Ran not beliving that was the truth at all.

Watson was very shocked but quickly reorganized himself cause he had to calm Jackie, and its only after Jackie fell asleep he was like "Oh fuck. I really am the dad huh?" Jackie was embarrassed at first but after some prodding did say how he truly saw Watson as a dad figure in his life. And everyone had different reactions to Watson suddenly accepting and fitting into the dad role. Jackie was excited and immediately started calling him dad and asking him awkward dad questions "Dad whats puberty?" "Uhhh-" "Dad where do babies come from?" "Ask your dad about that!" "But you are my dad!" Ran seemed indifferent about it but Watson can tell he's revealed to have someone to talk too, and someone to go to if things get to much. Grievous keeps sating he doesn't need a dad but he's the one that goes to Watson the most for things like hugs, comfort, and advice. 

Jackie and Grievous do everything. They rig the battle field so if someone steps in a certain area water will shoot up into their face, Grievous usually taunts and distracts opponents so Jackie can sneak up behind them and just latch onto them and cover their eyes while giggling like a madman as the opponent screams and runs around trying to get him off. Jackie regularly pulls peoples seat out from under them, while Grievous scares them and makes them choke or drop something. But they do know peoples limits. Like for Ran, no water related pranks (there was an incident where Grievous spilled a whole bucket of water on him and Ran got severe burns and had to stay in the hospital ward for a few days), for Watson don't mess with his bow or arrows, he will stab you. And for eachother, Jackie, no pranks that leave him alone for extended periods of time or makes it seems like everyone is gone/left. For Grievous no pranks centered around food or drinks (like putting toothpaste in his sandwich or putting pepper in his beer). 

Ran and Jackie have a 50/50 win if that makes sense. They both win and lose pretty often. They play games like Spoons, Go Fish, Dart Throwing (Watson needs to be present for this one), something similar to Cards Against Humanity, Poker (everyone plays during this one), and Tic Tac Toe. 

Sometimes Jackie loves being the smallest and other times hates it. He hates it when Ran steals something of his and holds it above his head, he sometimes resorts to aggressively climbing Ran to get it but Ran tends to just pluck him off, and people make fun of him in a mean natured way (he's fine with light teasing). But he loves it when he rides Ran's shoulders or can duck under peoples legs and trip em. Because he's also small and fast he's hard to catch and that definitely comes in handy during fights. No ones particularly protective of eachother (excluding Ran who's protective of everyone), because they know none of them like being babied and they can all hold their own, though they will quickly flock to help eachother if they need it. Ran definitely flaunts it whenever their in a agurement. 

There is a area under the fighting arena of the pit where they stay. Theres separate rooms for everyone, training areas, dinning areas, and just chilling areas. Theres even extra rooms meant for often visiting friends (Like Genevieve) and some for storage of weapons which also holds things to sharpen them or get new ones. The Pit itself is in the middle of a gaint city, so there are tons of stores and food areas around. And because of a high salary the King gives them they go out quite often, often eating out and browsing stores when their not training or sleeping. 

If by other combinations you mean like Ran-Jackie, Ran-Grievous, Watson-Jackie, and Watson-Grievous then it highly varies. Watson and Jackie are by far the worst team, their styles just don't match and constantly but heads during battles. Watson and Grievous are probably the best out of the 4 teams because Grievous can be serious and works well with Watson as he's much more willing to change his fighting style to accommodate whats needed. Ran and Jackie are like Jackie and Grievous, but they aren't nearly as insane. Rather Ran provides distractions while fighting to give Jackie time to sneak up behind them. Ran also is the only one able to actually throw Jackie, which they sometimes do during battles. And Ran and Grievous work well together, but not as much as Watson and Grievous, its just a few things of both their styles don't match or could potentially cause problems.

He's clumsy flat out, he isn't used to having full control and needs to get used to certain things like walking or talking again. He is also severely dehydrated and malnutritished because Dream didn't care enough to drink or eat. He's also incredibly skittish and scared easily. He and Cletus's relationship isn't solved fast at all, it takes months and the work of everyone to get the two comfortable around eachother. They start by putting Cletus on watching duty, where he watches over Ranbob to make sure he's eating and drinking and resting while not tiring himself out. Then after a month or 2 Isaac, Benjamin, and Charles start purposely leaving the two in a room alone toghere to get them to talk stuff out. It takes 3 months until their comfortable enough with eachother to willingly talk and hang out. Oh the house building attempts went aboustely awful. They sometimes fell on Ranbob! And when they didn't they just collapsed or got blown away by the wind, but Isaac did ofter help a few times and showed him multiple different ways to make sure the walls stay up and keep the cold out. 

Ran is very unhappy with Ranbobs haunting, he thinks their kind of like Ranbob in which they've all killed people and considers them a threat at first, but when he sees how his haunting likes and interacts with Ranbob's, he losens up a bit, his group trusts them, so he has to trust them a little bit. But he doesn't trust them or like them nearly as much as he trusts and likes his haunting. 

Im guessing you mean who from the two groups get along the easiest. Most of them take a while to get to know eachother, like a few hours. But after that their all really close. Charles and Jackie, Cletus and Grievous, and Benjamin, Isaac, and Watson are the groups that get along really well really fast. 

Im honestly probably am going to go for them adventuring outside the City to try to get the brothers to get along again. Mostly cause I thought of the idea that what if Watson, Jackie, and Grievous all lie to Ran, and while they are actually going on an adventure, they lie to him that his brother and his group isn't coming. Then when its much to late for Ran to back out, Watson just goes "Oh yeah! Your brother and his group are traveling with us. And you can't do anything about it." And Ran just sits there shocked. 

Ran and Ranbob are both subtle protective of their group. With Ranbob never really getting aggressive or going into overbearing. But for Ran, if someone in his group is injured badly enough or if there's a big enough threat he does get overbearing and extremely aggressive towards whatever/whoever the threat is *cough cough Ranbob cough*. Ranbob tends to be very physical, listening more to a certain instincts that tell him to constantly have a view on or hold his family, as if he doesnt see or touch them for a long time he gets very anxious and panicky, thinking his family is dead and that he's all alone again. His group understands this and so tends to not stray to far away from Ranbob. He will also follow his group like a lost puppy at times. Ran while listens more to the instinct that tells him at random times to make sure his family is ok and to bond with them. The bonding leads to him randomly grabbing them and just sitting down with them, most likely playing games. While the random urge to check on them has led to him waking them up during the middle of the night or interrupting his own conversation or others conversations just to ask if their ok. His took a while to understand why he does it, but now if he wakes them up or drags them somewhere, they know to go along with it and comfort him during those times. 

Hybrids are rare! Especially aggressive or netural type mobs like Ran, Ranbob, and Porkius are. Their actually seen as monsters and are chased out or hunted in other city's because people aren't accepting of them. Theres very few city's like Subbin that fully welcome and are even led by hybrids. So there are more hybrids in Subbin, than there is anywhere else. 

Sorry this is so long ':)

Asks are always welcome here, and don’t worry about taking a bit or anything. The questions aren’t going anywhere, there’s plenty of time. 

Here’s that for you,🌹anon.

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1: Wow, Ranbob’s really going through it, huh? Does he ever start to fall back on that need to be ‘perfect’ while with the others? If so, how do they deal with that? And how is he with others offering to help him? If he even can really recall falling under Dream’s thrall, by accepting such an offer, how does he react to others doing the same, even if their intentions are far different?

2: So we’ve settled all the ages down, nice. You figure out anything for their backstory yet? And how do their ages affect their relationships with one another? Does Benjamin take the lead a lot? Or is he more of a follower that still has a lot of say? Who met who first?

3: So Ran’s obviously going to be awhile before he believes what went down. Still, I can’t imagine he’d have been as willing to go along with his hauntings little roadtrip plan if he wasn’t swayed at least a bit, since I can’t imagine he wouldn’t have put his foot down if he truly though Ranbob had done what he did. Why exactly does he go along with it? Does some small part of him want to give his brother a chance? Is he just confident he can overpower him, and looking for an opportunity to settle the score? Does he see something that makes him hope a bit? What’s going down there, anon?

4: On one hand, very adorable. One the other hand, poor Watson. Does Jackie actually not know that stuff, or does he do that just to mess with his new father figure? It seems like they all take to it pretty well overall though.

5: I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Two people to truly fear. How many people straight up forfeit when faced with this combination? It seems like they’ve had some interesting times, good and bad. How’d those play out? As for those last two, I’m sensing a bit of a backstory. Why does Grievous not like stuff being put into his food? And why’s Jackie not good with being left?

6: So it’s fifty/fifty, huh? Who wins the most at what games? And uh, Watson has to be present for Dart Throwing. What happened there? How’s everyone’s poker faces? Who’s got the best luck in games of chance?

7: A love/hate relationship with height. I feel ya, Jackie. Very funny to imagine though, Jackie just, physically climbing up Ran. How tall even is this guy?? How do they deal with meaner teasing, not just from the gladiators, but from general bullies? Not everybody’s as friendly as some of the Pit fighters, after all. And how do the fishermen react with their fighting skills? Obviously, they must know how to fight somewhat, to have entered the Pit, but the gladiators do this for a living. How much is the difference in skill level? And does the gang ever get to show off just how skilled they are? 

8: Their home sounds very nice, honestly, I wished I could live there, minus the people. What’s everyone’s rooms look like? How have they personalized them? Which brings up another question-what kind of interests and hobbies do they have? What kind of things do they do that aren’t fighting and related to such? And they must be pretty well known, to have such high pay. Any of them have an arena title, or some sort of stage name? How many people can recognize the city’s top gladiators on sight? And how do they get around that, when they don’t want to be seen? How do people feel about them in general?

9: All these team ups sound terrifying, and I wouldn’t want to be facing them. How do they deal with it when they get a bad match up? Do they just stay out of each other’s way? Try to take their opponents out quick? Make it one on one? Ran and Jackie have to be my favorite team up, solely for the fact that you’ve said Ran straight up throws him. Like?? Imagine coming to the King’s Pit, a well known, popular place, hoping to prove yourself, and then getting taking out by a flying midget, just tossed at you by a ridiculously tall endermen hybrid. How would you feel?? 

10: Ranbob is just really going through the ringer here. How many times does he just drop stuff, or trip over his feet? Does he ever get better, or does he still retain a clumsy streak? If so, how does Ran react to that? It’s very good he and Cletus bond! Are they just as close as the others, or is there still a bit of distance? How often does Ranbob forget to eat or drink, or really just take a break? How long does it take to get him to start remembering to do that stuff again? 

Does he ever slip up while with the gladiators? Also, in a room? Do the fisherman expand their house more, or do they just leave them in the house? Does Ranbob ever get his own house up? If so, does he use it at all, or is it more for storage? And how many times did he fall asleep out there, get injured, or not realize it was about to rain? How long did it take before Benjamin or Charles put their foot down and make him stay in for a bit?

Has Ranbob ever even dealt with rain before, or a storm above water? If not, how’d he react to it? 

11: Oh, boy, Ran. Your concerns are understandable, but definitely going to lead to some angst. Is he just on edge the whole time? How many times does he just glare at them, or straight up steal one of his haunting back a few feet away from Ranbob’s? Are the fishermen ever worried he might hurt them?

12: How do both hybrids deal with their groups bonding? I imagine Ranbob’s pretty happy with it, but how about Ran? As you said, he doesn’t seem to be the biggest fan of these guys. 

13: Roadtrip! Gotta love a roadtrip! What kind of places do they head? Any transportation, or is it just walking, enjoying nature? Do they go on an adventure to look for something cool? What’re they getting up to?

14: So Ran and Ranbob both act on their instincts in different ways. How do they feel about seeing how the other acts? What happens if any of the fishermen stray too far, or get separated from Ranbob? Same question to Ran. Ran just...like...picks up members of his haunting? Do people just see him walk around with them dangling in his arms? He must be pretty strong. How often does he do this? How else do their instincts lead to them acting? Cuddle piles, picking up blocks, keeping their groups close together, ect?

15: So Subbin’s pretty much a safe space for hybrids? Interesting. But since the groups are heading out, does this mean they run into some trouble outside of the city? And is there ever trouble within it? 

Other questions: Does Karl play any further part in this, or has he already played his role for good? Does the gang ever end up back at Mizu? Do any of the group have a pet or something similar? With there be any sort of connection to other Tales, even if only slightly, or will they be solely focused on these two? Does Ranbob pick up his studies of Ranboo as best he can once he’s free, or does he leave it all behind entirely?

Thanks for the ask, this AU’s become quite interesting. I can’t wait to see where it goes!

[usaginotwst]

The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing | Jamil Viper

Pairing: Jamil x OC

Words: 1976

Rating: G - General

you can also read it on AO3! 

Boisterous music filled the air in the gymnasium and reverberated off the walls. A distinct beat and record scratch caught Adele’s ear as she entered through the large, heavy doors. The familiar plastic smell of sports equipment and sweat welcomed her like an awkward acquaintance.

“Hip hop?” Grim seemed to scrunch up his little nose in question from his perch on her shoulder as they neared the court.

“Maybe a warmup?” Adele shared thoughtfully as she spotted the basketball club towards the middle of the floor. Though…they didn’t look like they were playing their sport.

Jamil’s body popped on beat in a hypnotic, almost robotic fashion before he stopped, wiped the sweat from his brow and motioned for Ace and Floyd. “So, if you just trust yourself and plant your feet, you won’t fall.”

All 6 feet and 2 inches of Floyd attempted to follow Jamil’s instructions, his body missing the timing just so. He landed, popping and locking his body the way Jamil showed him, but only laughed as he started to stumble. Ace stood by and continued to watch as he chugged from a water bottle. His eyes drifted across the empty gymnasium until he spotted Adele.

“Oi, space case!” Ace called her over. She waved and began her approach. “What’re you doing here?”

Adele blinked once and then twice before she remembered the book she clutched to her chest. Extending her arm, she offered it. “You left your textbook at Ramshackle.”

“Oh shit,” Ace took it from her and sighed with relief. “I actually need this for next period, thanks. Trein would’ve totally chewed me out.”

“Rainbowfish!” Floyd called, running full speed towards the two and shoving Ace to the side in his pursuit. Grim got out of dodge as fast as he could, the flames of his ears rising as he all but hissed at the sudden intrusion. Grim quickly climbed to the top of a stack of workout mats and curled up, muttered in annoyance.

Slick with sweat, Floyd wrapped both arms around Adele and brought her to his chest. She grimaced at the feeling of sweat through the fabric of her blouse and the twang of the stink of teenage boy engulfing her.

“Please, Floyd,” a light laugh left her lips, “you’re drenched!”

“Aww, c’mon~!” Floyd whined. He started to sway them both back and forth. Ace simply laughed at her, showing no signs of helping.

“Gross,” Jamil sighed. At least he was bothering her instead of him for the moment.

Waving him off, Floyd rested his chin atop her dark hair. “Sea Snake is teaching us how to dance like him today!”

“Oh, that’s wonderful!” Adele beamed at the Scarabia vice dorm head from under Floyd’s chin. “I had no idea you were such a great dancer, Jamil!”

“Yes well.” Heat tinted Jamil’s cheeks and ears. “We can’t break dance or play basketball if you’re holding onto Adele, Floyd. I guess we’re done for today.”

“You’re no fun.” Floyd huffed and spun Adele out of his arms. Dizzily, she stumbled into Ace, who righted her with a light slap on her back.

“Say, Rainbowfish,” Floyd turned his intense gaze on her once more. “You’re a good dancer too, why don’t you show us that dance that you were trying to teach me the other day at the lounge?”

Adele’s eyebrows knitted together in remembrance before the thought came back. “Oh, well, I don’t exactly have any tap shoes, Floyd, I can’t-,”

“No, no, the other one!” Floyd waved her on, bordering irritation that she was being so dense.

“Well, I’d need a partner.”

“Okay so take Sea Snake,” Floyd pushed the shorter teen towards her. He stumbled forward with a harsh look in his eyes.

“What?” Jamil looked back at him and shook his head. “I don’t know what dance she’s talking about and -,”

“C’mon, Sea Snake, it’ll be fun!” Floyd whined.

Adele offered Jamil a smile and her hand. “Come to think of it, I haven’t had a good partner in ages.”

“Besides, it’s something Kalim can’t do.” Ace’s knowing smirk kicked Jamil’s pride.

Kalim could dance, sure, but the merchant’s prodigal son’s knowledge didn’t extend far. This would be another addition to the myriad skills Jamil possessed that surpass Kalim’s. So, with a smirk of his own Jamil agreed. In one swift movement, he gently took Adele’s outstretched hand and his spot on the gym-turned-dancefloor.

“You’ll need to stay on the balls of your feet,” Adele explained, gently counting as she began to move. She counted her tah-ri-ple steps in time as the balls of her feet squeaked against the polished grain of the gym floor.

Step by slow step Jamil followed Adele’s directions, noting the way she twisted and turned. Her skirt flounced and lifted as she spun, drawing his eye to the slope of her long legs as she showed him a particular move.

“Jamil?” Her soft voice brought him out of his reverie to lock eyes with her. The slight chill of embarrassment twinged his gut as he waved her away. She nodded with a gentle smile and began to move again, counting her steps lightly. Mentally checking himself, Jamil’s eyes darted back to the movement of her feet.

After a quick water break and a refresher, Ace found a song with similar enough cadence and rhythm to the ones from Adele’s world. Adele’s heart constricted in her chest at the memory of all the songs she would possibly never hear again.

“Alright, you’ve got the moves and the music, let’s go!” Floyd called from the sidelines, shaking her from her trance. Jamil stood in front of her, his face unreadable as he went over the steps in his head.

“Don’t think too much about it, just feel the music,” She offers as they joined hands and the music started. Using her weight as leverage, he leaned back and they both began to move their feet this way and that in time to the upbeat tune playing from Ace’s speakers.

It was awkward and slow at first, Jamil being so used to the heavy weight in his heels required to move his body the way he normally did, but soon he could see how Adele had been right. The music spurred his movements on, suddenly feeling light on his feet as they came up to tempo.

Once he was comfortable enough to trust his feet not to get away from him, Jamil spared a glance at his dance partner. A smile graced her features as she lolled her head back and relished in the music. Her usual headband had fallen from its perch, forgotten somewhere on the ground around them. Jamil watched as she kicked her legs on time and twisted to the beat. A carefree laugh ripped from Adele’s throat, a raucous, extremely teenaged sound that was foreign to Jamil and their audience. It was as if she had been born to dance like this.

Suddenly her head snapped back up, her violet eyes glittering with mirth, “Do you want to try a spin now?” She asked.

Jamil nodded as if compelled by the eager flush on her face. However ready Jamil thought he was, it took him by surprise as she gently pulled him in closer by their conjoined hands and spun him around. A deep red flush dusted his cheeks, and a shiver ran up his spin as her hands ghosted the ridges of his shoulder blades.

Carmine eyes met lavender as she twirled around him. Weaving in and out of his arms, leaving him hot and cold with her touch, Adele conducted magic in time with the downbeat. His skin tingled where her featherlight fingertips grazed him and he very quickly decided that partner dancing was something he could get used to.

Lost in their own little world, the dance continued until the song ended. Both panting from exertion, Adele and Jamil never broke eye contact. They both began at the same time, speaking over one another.

“That was-,”

“That was incredible!” Adele gushed, grabbing the sides of her skirt and pulling it up as she recreated a movement. “When you did this with your feet, that was amazing, Jamil! I didn’t teach you that!”

“Well, I just…felt the music.” He shrugged, trying to avoid her adoring gaze.

“I’ve never had a dance partner like you before!” Adele beamed at him and Jamil stood up a bit straighter at the compliment.

“Thank you. It was fun.” He offered and risked meeting her eyes. Once again, he was captivated by the life inside that was never apparent until now. Curiosity and tenderness, though he’d never admit it, lead his gaze to linger longer than was appropriate.

“Gross, break it up.” Ace came up, throwing towels at each of them to wipe the sweat quickly cooling from their brows. He offered Adele her headband with an incredulous expression. She had never looked at Deuce or him like that, and they were her best friends!

What gives? Ace thinks in annoyance.

“So, it goes like this?” Floyd caught Adele’s attention from Ace and tried to mimic her previous movements. She nodded along in time to his feet with a smile.

“You’re doing great,” She encouraged him while clapping along. “Would you care to be my partner next time, Floyd?”

“Why wait?” Floyd moved to scoop her off of her feet, but Ace had the tail of his shirt in a vice grip, stopping the older teen just short of reaching her.

“C’mon, we gotta cleanup so we can get to class on time.” Ace spoke with a sour tone.

“There’s always next time, Floyd!” Adele assured him. Ace tsked and tossed another towel her way, covering her head.

“Go take a shower before you stink up your potions class!” He stuck his tongue out at her and she laughed as she removed the towel, and the world came back into view.

“Alright, alright, I’m going.” She shook her head good-naturedly. Ace headed towards the locker room with Floyd bounding after him after shooting her a toothy smile and a wave, leaving her alone with Jamil.

Before she could leave, Jamil spoke up.

“Thank you for teaching me today.” His voice was even as he spoke. If she hadn’t just been dancing with him, Adele wouldn’t have believed he had just exerted any effort at all. A small smile graced his lips, lighting up his face. “It was nice learning something new.”

“You really like to dance, don’t you?” She asked fondly.

Jamil hadn’t thought too much of the reason, but somewhere along his childhood, dancing had become his release. Frustration at his position, anger at Kalim, and everything in between could be solved by moving his body in time to the beat of some song on the radio. The feeling of his muscles straining under him as he pushed himself to the limit every time kept him coming back like an addict.

As his eyes drifted over her face, he took in her dark bangs matted to her face with sweat, her lips parted just so with the rise and fall of her chest as she worked on regulating her breathing. The image burned itself onto his eyes and he blinked a couple of times to shake himself free.

“Yeah.” He replied lamely.

“I do too,” She beamed at him. “You know, a famous author from my world once wrote, ‘To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love.’”

Jamil’s heart thudded so loudly in his chest that he worried she’d be able to hear it as she scooped up the sleeping Grim and said her goodbyes. He groaned and brought the heels of his palms to his eyes. He rubbed profusely and sighed. This was just another feeling he would have to sort out through his usual, rhythmic coping mechanism.

[mysweetestcreature]

Tomorrow Never Knows (President!Harry) Chapter 10: Not a Bad Thing

(Banner by the wonderful noblewomankat!)

***

Monday November 24, 2008

It’s been days since they’ve had a normal conversation...or any decent form of communication for the matter. This past week had consisted of multiple attempts (on her part) to talk to him, but each time he’d make up some excuse to cut all dialogue short. “My mum’s waiting for me outside, maybe next time?” or “I’m actually late for practice, but I’ll catch up with you later,” but of course he never did. Beyond her comprehension is how she had managed to mess everything up so badly in so little time. 

Eleven minutes. 

Harry had arrived eleven minutes after she had accepted Jasper’s invitation. There’s nothing she can say that can justify why she’d done it because even she isn’t so sure. Maybe she was scared. She’d been so hopeful about where this friendship with him would lead them once before, and it had costed her the first heartbreak of her life. The biggest part of her wanted so badly to wait for Harry to ask her, but a small yet seemingly influential nerve had let her insecurities take over. 

She wishes she hadn’t cared so much about what other people had thought, and instead used her own judgement. She hadn’t realized just how difficult it would be for their roles to be reversed, and she only has herself to blame for it.

“I wish you’d stop stressing,” Cici tells her as they do their warmup stretches. “I doubt he’ll be able to stay mad at you for much longer.”  

“You might be wrong for once,” she smiles sadly, facing down to stare numbly ahead as she reaches for her toes. 

Once she and Harry had parted (or more accurately, when Harry had left her standing ashamed in the hallway), Cici had found her sitting on the floor beside her locker, a somber expression painted all over her face.  

“I messed up,” is all she had mustered up in that moment of fragility, dejected eyes having fallen into her lap. And Cici –– who had already passed an equally, if not more, crestfallen boy on her way to find Y/n –– was readily equipped with her words of enthusiasm, even if she was quite disappointed in the turnout of the day. “You made one mistake –– it doesn’t make you a bad person.” Doesn’t it, though? 

Cici scoffs as she tightens her ponytail. “I am many things, but I am never wrong,” she says in a matter-of-fact tone –– almost arrogantly, if you ask Y/n –– before standing up and brushing the wrinkles from her skirt. “It’s not in my vocabulary.”

“But it’s in mine, apparently,” her lips curve down. 

“I didn’t mean it like–”

“I know.” She rises to her feet. “It was a stupid decision and I wish I could redo it, but I can’t now. He can barely stand to be in the same room as me for more than a class period. He hasn’t dropped by the Home Ec. Room in who knows how long, and I haven’t been able to make a decent pumpkin pie since. Me? Screw up a pie? That doesn’t happen! This weekend I typed out twenty-seven texts that I never sent. Twenty-seven, Cici! Who does something like that?! All saying the same thing, that I like him so much that it makes my heart go crazy, and how it hurts that he might think otherwise because I’m going to this stupid dance with someone who’s not Harry and it fucking sucks!”

It leaves her chest to heave heavily, and her lungs to feel completely depleted of any oxygen. With an outburst like that, she’s managed to surprise herself. And while conversations amongst the other cheerleaders continue, it feels like she’s once again in the spotlight as the heat creeps up her neck and settles on her forehead and the apples of her cheeks. 

Cici stands in front of her, eyes rounded in astonishment and mouth hung open wide. Her eyes quickly dart down at her arm. 

“You’ve never cussed before, I literally just got chills!”

A smile slowly reemerges. “It felt good,” she admits, and she breathes out in relief as her shoulders feel lifted from at least a portion of the weight that had been set upon them. “I’ve been holding that one in.”

“No, that was totally clear.”

A restful silence falls upon them, and Y/n makes it an opportunity to reflect on the upcoming days. She needs to fix this and salvage whatever she can before they permanently fall apart. Hating to sound dramatic, but she has a strong feeling that if they can’t recover from this, then it could be over for good. 

And that’s just not in the cards.

“I’m going to tell him.”

***

Tuesday November 25, 2008

“Got any plans for Thanksgiving?” Maxxie asks him.

Harry lets out a heavy sigh, staring down at his jumbled pile of flashcards on his desk. He’d be lying if he said he hadn’t been thinking about it constantly because it had been toying with his mind for the better part of the weekend. “You could say that, I guess.”

The answer, in all its vague glory brings about an amused grin from the boy across from him. Maxxie leans over the table and goes as far to lift his hips off the chair just invade his personal space. “What was that tone?” he gawks, wiping the cards off the surface of the table.

“Well...” he starts off timidly (a bit of annoyance mixed in because he’s going to have to clean up the mess later), and a small burp erupts from the back of his throat as a sign of his mild discomfort. “I was sort of...maybe...actually invited to...” but the tail of the sentence is nearly undecipherable to the human ear. 

Maxxie squints his blue eyes across from him. “What was that? I didn’t quite catch all of it.”

Blowing out the air from his lungs, Harry’s head falls back so all he has to focus on are the dull cracks in the ceiling. Part of him still doesn’t believe it, or rather hadn’t thought it an admissible option given the recent events. He pokes his inner cheek outwards before letting out a tired groan. “We’re spending it with Y/n’s family, okay? There, I said it.”

“You’re bluffing!” 

Harry whistles out a breath. “Not today, mate,” he chortles, rubbing the base of his palm against his left eye. “Jeremy literally asked my mum the day after...well, you know.”

“Are you going to be able to manage it?” there’s a weariness in Maxxie’s voice.

But honestly, Harry doesn’t know. Yes, he’s still broken up about the whole thing. Yet, the hardest part is being next to her and feeling as though he’s missed every chance that he’s had at being hers. Because he’s sure it’ll take him a long time before he’s over her, and that’s what hurts the most.

***

On Day 6, Pattern D finds itself at ten in the morning, the third class of the Tuesday before Thanksgiving break. To Y/n it’ll be the first class she has with Harry, meaning another chance to get things straightened out between them. Now that their positions are reversed, she feels even worse about having treated him so harshly the month before when there had been a hefty cloak of uncertainty to keep things understandably complicated. 

Just as Mr. Daughtry’s door comes into sight, her path is intercepted by a body suddenly appearing before her.   

“Hey, you!” Jasper greets her with a bright grin. There’s a moment of clumsiness when she predicts his fluid movements based on how his arm extends and fingers point in her direction as they rise to the height of her shoulder. In a slight panic, she twists arounds, pretending to fish for a pencil from the side pouch of her backpack. Luckily (for him) he’s able to stop himself from proceeding, and he shrugs the action off as he stretches that same arm over his head. With a skittish laugh he continues. “I feel like I haven’t seen much of you this week.”

“I’ve just been busy,” she mumbles, hugging her grey math notebook close to her chin. She can’t help but wonder if he isn’t late to some class, or club meeting, or some discussion about hair accessories (the latter causes her to snigger to herself). 

Jasper simply nods, pulling slightly on the knot of his tie. “So, I told my mom about the formal and she’s super stoked that we’re going together,” he blushes. “I mean, I’m really happy you said yes.”

Meanwhile, the metallic taste of blood starts to fill her mouth the longer she keeps her tongue trapped between her teeth. “Yeah...” she struggles to find her voice. The right thing to do would be to come clean, to be straightforward with him and give him the honest answer he had deserved from the beginning. 

Blowing the air from her nostrils, she parts her lips as they wrap around the words. “Jasper, I actually need to talk to you about that...”

“Karan! What’s up, man?” 

She forces an unbothered appearance in front of Jasper’s friend –– Karan –– as they start a whole conversation of their own. 

This is something she’s found to dislike very much, how Jasper always seems to forget that his friends aren’t her friends...well, at least none that she particularly like enough to call by such an intimate name. It bothers her because she doesn’t know if she can walk away or if this boy has any intention of including her or even continuing with what they’d started only minutes before. 

She taps her foot contempt, not even caring if either find her actions to be tactless. All Jasper does is shoot half a smile before carrying on talking about the latest scandal to hit the tenth grade. 

“I should really get to class,” she meddles in the momentary pause between speakers. “See you around.” 

Before Jasper can send her off with a proper goodbye, she turns around and keeps en route for the classroom. As soon as she’s about to cross under the arch, she collides with another body, notebook falling from her hands and falling open-faced on the floor. 

“’m sorry,” the other rushes out, his voice all too recognizable to her ears. Harry quickly picks up the notebook and holds it out for her to take, but all she notices is how his eyes remain low and unwilling to look at her. 

“Thank you,” she whispers. He gives her a nod in response before signaling for her to go enter ahead of him. But she stays in glued in place. “Do you think we can...”

“There might be a pop quiz, I heard,” he interrupts, his hand finding the small of her back to gently prod her into the room. Despite it being nothing more than a graze of his fingers over her sweater, she still feels jolts of electricity run up her spine and tickle the back of neck. 

With their arrival being just a minute or so before roll call, the only available seats are towards the very rear, two desks grouped together and pushed in the far-right corner of the room. His hand falls back to his side, the absence of his touch leaving her colder than she had just been. It makes her frown, and as they make their way to the back, the space between them only grows. 

For her, this has to be the most difficult consequence to deal with. 

“Alright, since everyone is settled in,” Mr. Daughtry starts, uncapping a blue dry erase marker. “Let’s go over last night’s homework.” And he ponders down at the reference notes on the podium, before the shrill squeaks of the marker against the whiteboard slowly begin to reveal an equation. 

Beside her, Harry opens up his notebook, each homework problem neatly organized (this includes all the work he’d done to solve them) over two pages. She looks straight ahead, slightly squinting so she can decipher the correct answers on the board. “How is it 43?” she asks under her breath, staring down at problem #5.

“It was a negative two, not positive...which would mean b becomes positive in the expression,” he answers. He orients his notes towards her. “Right there,” he points to it with tip of his pencil. He leans in a little closer, elbow coming to rest on the table as his head tilts in her direction. Her heart goes crazy as he goes on to explain the steps of the equation. It’s the first time in days he’s willingly talked to her, even if it is about schoolwork. But she forces herself to shake off the feeling for the time being, if only to prevent herself from messing this up. 

“How’d I even...” And she cross checks with his work, brows curling inward. “Oh, I’m such dummy. I didn’t even notice that!” she shakes her head and rubs her eraser over the page. 

He looks at her for the first time today with a prelude of the softest smile. “You’re not.” 

She offers him a toothy grin as she settles back down. Every now and again will she sneak an admiring gaze. 

***

“Harry!” she calls after him. In the short period of time she’d taken to pack her things, he had already fled the room by the time she looked up. It took squeezing her way through two bulky juniors from their class to quickly find his mop of brown curls in the crowded corridor. 

At the sound of his name, he begrudgingly comes to a stop. He sighs and scratches the back of his head, his internal monologue arguing that he should continue forward. The decision is to be outweighed by a greater influence. 

“Hi,” Y/n says in a bit of a wheeze. 

“Hi,” he returns, nodding. He watches as those around them disperse in their difference directions, until the hallway soon becomes barren during this first lunch period. “What’s going on?” he asks simply. 

She absentmindedly goes to mess with a loose strand of hair. “I was just...” she snivels (allergy season can be a real nuisance). “Wanted to say that I’m really looking forward to Thursday.” 

“Oh,” his mouth forms an o with his lips. He glances to the floor and wriggles his feet as though pebbles were buried in his shoes. “Yeah, I think my mum’s bringing trifle or some kind of dessert.” 

“That’s sweet of her,” she affirms. “Are you excited?” 

Harry looks up, noticing the hope embedded in her eyes. “It could be fun,” he says evenly. “Your dad seems pretty keen on watching the Packers game together. Mason, too, I guess.”

“Mason hasn’t stopped talking about it,” she admits shyly, but can’t help but giggle at the thought of her brother. “You know, he told his teacher that you were his best friend.”

It’s Harry’s turn to laugh. “Really?” Y/n nods enthusiastically. “He’s a cool kid. Tell him I’m honored.” 

“You can always tell him on Thursday.” 

Harry smiles. “I will.” 

***

Thursday November 27, 2008

Thanksgiving Day has never been more stressful for Y/n. Not only has she been baking since last night (did someone say four different flavors of pie and three fall-themed cookies, and a carrot cake bigger than her dad’s head?) but she must have changed her outfit at least nine times in the last half hour. The Styles’ are expected to arrive at around 5pm, which means she only has another forty-five minutes to come up with the perfect ensemble. Earlier in the afternoon, it had just occurred to her that she hasn’t met Anne nor Gemma, and she’d be dishonest if she said she wasn’t ultra-nervous about it.

Gosh, how her stomach feels so full of air.

She wishes she could be as carefree as Mason because all he’s been fretting over is which boardgame to play with Harry after dinner and which Disney movie he’s going to have running on the laptop whilst Jeremy slaves away to the television at approximately 8pm. 

“Do you think Harry likes Monopoly or Connect Four?” the little boy asks. She tears her attention from her cookie display to look down at her brother who’s holding two boxes up for her to examine.

“But, Mase,” she giggles, wiping her hands on her apron. “You don’t know how to play Monopoly.”

Mason looks at the box in his right hand and eyes it carefully. He gives her a signal of understanding before trotting off back into the living room to set up. Shaking her head, she continues setting up the cookies along the three-tier server. Hopefully, it’ll be enough to impress their guests. “It’ll be fine,” she tells herself.

***

The doorbell rings, and almost instantly does it cause alarm within Y/n. 

“Oh my god!” she panics, running around the kitchen to quadruple check that everything is exactly as it should be. “Dad! Dad! Did you–”

“Yes.”

“How about the–”

“Yes.”

“Okay but what about–”

“Y/n,” Jeremy says sternly from the foyer. She closes her eyes as she listens to the bottom rim of the door brush along the mat. “Welcome! Nice to see you again, Anne. Harry, ready for that Packers game? Oh, hello! I don’t think I’ve met you yet?”

Her eyes widen, he must be talking to Gemma! Harry had told her stories about how close they are since Anne’s job requires a lot of traveling. Oh gosh, she must hate her for having done what she did to her brother. She knows this because she would absolutely despise anyone who would ever dare to hurt Mason. “I think I’m going to be sick,” she breathes unevenly and braces herself over the counter. 

“Not to validate anything your father says,” Olivia sneaks up from behind, “but you really do need to relax.” She takes a good look at her daughter. “Weren’t you wearing the brown sweater?”

But before Y/n has the chance to answer, three new faces enter from the side, her heart skipping over multiple beats as she becomes tightlipped. 

“Hello!” Olivia greets them. “We’re so happy to have you join us! I’m Olivia, by the way.”

Harry’s sister nudges him from behind. “Oh, um...” he looks behind him. “This is my mum Anne, and my sister Gemma.” 

“So nice to meet you,” Anne smiles, and she extends a hand to Olivia, Gemma does the same. “You have such beautiful home. Are those chrysanths you have along the walkway? They’re absolutely stunning!” 

Olivia covers a hand over her heart. “I like you already,” she sobs playfully. “Finally, someone who gets it! Two kids and neither of them share a love for gardening.” 

“You can say that again,” Anne returns. The two share a laugh, and Olivia leads them into the dining room to continue on with their chat. 

It leaves Y/n with Harry and Gemma, and she isn’t even sure where Jeremy might have wandered off to now. Harry whispers something into Gemma’s ear, and she rolls her eyes before shoving her elbow into his side. Y/n can’t help but wonder what he’s saying. Is it about her? Has he found something wrong? Stop this! She reaches behind her and pinches herself. Relax.

Taking a bold step forward, she strikes up conversation. “Hi, I’m Y/n.”

“I’ve heard a lot about you,” Gemma replies, a warm aura radiating from her being.  

Y/n tilts her head.  “Good things, I hope.”

“Well,” the older girl starts, sending a smirk at her brother and sniggering when his eyes widen in realization. “This one never stops talking about you.”

Harry gasps, “Now wait just a minute.” But as soon as he’s about to come up with a rebuttal, he’s immediately attacked from behind with a hug. Short arms lock his legs together, and if it weren’t for his sister standing there for support, he would have most definitely fallen over. “There he is!” 

“Harry!” Mason giggles, reaching his arms above his head, a notorious signal for Harry to lift him up. “Did you miss me?”

“Duh!” Harry teases. “How can I not miss my bestest mate?” 

***

Dinner goes better than either she or Harry can expect. Their families seem to have taken well with one another, Anne and Olivia having already formed that instant bond over maternal care and green thumbs. Jeremy is shocked to hear that Gemma is interested in programming herself, and he’s even more impressed to learn that she’s in the process of building her own website. As for Mason, well...it’s a little hard not to fall in love this boy when all he pours out into the world is happiness, and maybe a little bit of cupcake frosting. 

A seating arrangement had predetermined their positions at the table (thanks to Olivia and her brilliant mind). As it had happened, Y/n and Harry are seated beside each other, their chairs closer than usual with the extra chair on his other side. Although, it became apparent throughout dinner of the gap –– while not visible to the human eye –– that remains between them. 

Y/n doesn’t understand why that is, especially since they’d seemed to be on better terms on Tuesday. While they hadn’t eaten lunch together, he did sit next to her during Spanish class so they could work on the conjugation exercise together. Sure, it hadn’t been the most romantic thing they could have done, but it was a start, right? But now she feels bothered that the extent of their communication today has been polite smiles and requests to pass whatever dish the other is closest to. 

Deciding she’s had enough of this, she turns to him. “I’m really glad you’re here,” she whispers to him. 

“It is the holidays, so...” he keeps his answer elusively.

She has to play it back in her mind to determine if there’s any underlying meaning behind it. Pushing around the remains of her pumpkin pie she speaks up again. “Are you still mad at me?” 

He takes his time before answering, mulling over the words carefully. Yet, there’s no intelligible way to organize them to make it sound any better. “It’s not that simple.”

And that manages to stir something within her. “It’s either yes or no.”

“Y/n,” he warns, not wanting to cause a scene in front of their families. “Now’s just not the time to talk about it.”

She scoffs, shaking her head and willing herself not to cry. “It’s never the time with you.” And she excuses herself from the table. 

***

Giving himself one last glance in the mirror, he wraps his hand around the copper knob. He takes a long breath as he prepares himself to rejoin everyone and pretend that he doesn’t wish he could be anywhere else today. For majority of the day, he had thought he’d moved on from the rejection. However, the more time he spends with her, the more those feelings regress him back to those open wounds. Despite how much he likes watching football with Jeremy and playing Connect Four with Mason, he can’t help but get distracted whenever she comes over and asks thoughtful questions about the game. And that distraction causes him to remember how difficult it’s been to keep up this charade. 

When he opens the door, he’s immediately met with her figure looking up at him with doe-like eyes. His jaw clenches as he tries to ignore how the pout on her plump lips makes a part of him go a little crazy. What’s worse is that he shouldn’t feel this way, not right now at least. Not when he’s trying to stay mad for a little while longer. 

“Please,” she starts off faintly, looking all too small as she stands before him. His expression softens only the smallest amount that she isn’t sure if maybe it was just a twitch. “Can we just talk?” She can see it in his eyes, the answer that’s about to roll off his tongue so blatantly obvious. And before he has a chance to decline, she latches onto his hand and starts to walk him towards the stairs. They’re careful not to draw attention to themselves as they practically tiptoe through the dining area where Anne and Olivia continue to share embarrassing stories from when both Harry and Y/n were much younger. 

The grip she has on him while she leads him up the steps surprises him. Her soft hand squeezes his so tightly that his palms start to sweat from the sheer pressure (and maybe from a bubbling sense of nervousness that’s brewing inside). “Is this really necessary...” he hears himself muttering out loud, even though he’s expecting no answer in return. Although, he may have just felt just the smallest bit of added compression around his fingers as they round the corner. 

Once they’re in her room, she’s sure to close the door this time around. If she’s learned anything from the numerous times they’ve been interrupted, it’s that one can never be too sure around her family –– or anyone really. She debates whether to take it all the way with caution, standing frozen as she stares down at the lock with hesitancy.

“Are you planning on keeping me hostage or something?” he chuckles lightly, plopping down on her bed, having already accepted his defeat. He combs his fingers through his hair a couple times before allowing himself the chance to relax.

She exhales fully and closes her eyes. “If that’s what it takes.” With the lock pinched securely between her fingers, the faintest sound erupts within the space. Click. “Then, yes.” Rotating on her heel, she presses her back up against the door, hand still loosely grasping the handle as she tilts her head back. She keeps her eyes low at first, but as seconds on the clock begin to outnumber them, she has no choice but to have them ascend. 

He raises an eyebrow. “Well?”

“I’m so sorry, Harry,” she says shakily, whatever confidence she had absorbed seems to have fizzled out. But she can’t back down now, not when the opportunity is right in front of her. “I knew you were going to ask me, and I swear I was going to wait but then Jasper completely caught me off guard and then everyone was watching and I just...I just didn’t...I just didn’t think. It was stupid and I know that’s not an excuse, but I just want things to go back to normal.” She crosses her arms over her chest, a twinge of embarrassment filling her as her own words repeat through her ears. 

He shifts uncomfortably. All the feelings he’d been trying to avoid are being unlocked, and there’s nothing he can do to stop it. It’s not even that he’s mad (he’s found it impossible to harvest any ill-feelings for the girl in front him), it’s more that he’s dreading whatever might come out of her mouth because he isn’t sure he can handle another rejection. “We don’t have to talk about it, really. We’re fine,” he says as neutrally as he can. 

“No, Harry. We’re not. And you know it.” 

He knows she’s right, no matter how much he wants to deny it for the sake of saving his own heart. But now that she’s locked him in, he has no choice but to confront the issue. “Look, whatever might have been between us, I’ll get over it, okay? I’ll be fine. I don’t want you to feel–”

“No!” she almost screams, and she marches right to where his knees bend off the side of the mattress with her lips pursed in a newfound determination. “That’s the complete opposite of what I want to happen.” 

His green eyes are fixed on her. “What do you mean?” he whispers. But she shakes her head, as though regretting the words to come out of her mouth. Because now they implicate her of the thing she’s been dying to say, and there’s no coming back once it’s said.

Not even thinking, he places his hands on her waist to bring her closer. She still refuses to look at him, her arms further wrapping around her vulnerable self. There’s something in the way her bottom lip moves in the slightest matter that intrigues him. And now he just needs to know. “Hey, look at me,” and he gently cups her cheek to encourage her. “What?”

She stays quiet as she tries to get her breathing back to a normal pace, but the feeling of his stare causes a sweat to form down her back. “I don’t want you to be over us.”

With that, she finally looks forward. 

It’s about time one of them be brave.

“I don’t want you to be over me,” she says in the most delicate manner. “I don’t want you to get over me because...” She uncrosses her arms, only to have them wrap around his neck as she settles between his open legs. “Because I don’t want to have to get over you.”

Their eyes meet, and she lets her forehead fall against his. The tips of their noses nudge against each other. A sigh of pure bliss fights its way out of him. He pulls her even closer, thumbs rubbing small circles into the plush of her hips. Her heart beats erratically, as does his as they bask in the echo of a declaration. Two pairs of lips pull up into benevolent smiles before finally coming together.    

Eight letters.

There are eight letters to be remained unsaid (until another time).

***

[mousehole5000]

tgcf lb part 5 chapters 34 - 42 wow i keep cranking these out

okay i do care about feng xin. cranky but quietly forgiving debts. he was the one who stayed with xie lian in banishment for a while thats interesting

lmao yeah thats for sure. secrets are funny. “dont tell xie lian i want his debt forgiven.” “no problem buddy he wont hear it from me ;)” i imagine this happens a lot. gossip in the heavenly court must be something else.

i think its cool that the officials can transform their appearances including gender presentation i think it would be boring to live for hundreds of years and never mess around with that if you could. not so sure that anything cool is going to happen with it wrt commentary on gender but that sure would be neat. considering how few major female characters are around im not really expecting much but idk its something

if they ever do a live action tgcf i hope they preserve its comedic nature and do it kind of like lingjian mountain with some sort of modern day fourth-wall breaking meta humor. some of the items and mechanisms essentially function as smartphones and i think it would be great if they leaned into how funny that is instead of making it super serious

spoiled rich boy seems to be quite a theme among mxtx characters i know but here with wind master qingxuan its being commented on interesting. i like him tho

the thing about the wind master and ling wen being more powerful when they appear as the gender that mortals worship them as is pretty interesting!! something kind of interesting is happening wrt commentary on gender!! will it continue? we shall see

death becomes her 1992 again this is funny ghost humor is funny more please

corpse bride 2005 GHOST CITY BABY. oh please more weird undead stuff please please i get it i get hua cheng now please

god i hate when im at the market with but my friend gets taken away for a ghost facial and im left all alone to deal with an extremely aggressive ghost prostitute but at least i was raised in abstinence so im chill about it

ADKJLKFJLflkasjf . KLFJASLKFJSLF. LKFJLDKSAFJSLJK. no further comment at this time

actually no i kind of love that as an excuse to get out a situation. love in general that xie lian does not hold others opinions of him that highly love a protagonist who is not too proud. to be fair for 800 years i dont think hes been around anyone whos opinion he would need to care about long term. also i was afraid that hua cheng was going to show up and have to rescue xie lian from the eww nasty dead girl prostitute and im glad that didnt happen

:Oc :Oc ^ thats xie lian and wind master. lang qianqiu was not wrong tho. dont be risking other peoples lives for your business smh

xie lian trying to bet on a low number and rolling high.... sorry beloved but you should have see that coming a mile away

this little dice shaking “teaching” scene is giving me hardcore dafan mountain flashbacks with hualian having a little moment while behind them theres an entire gambling den full of ghosts just watching them like. um. hello? guys? where is the violence?

lang qianqiu jock i think. wind master long suffering friend

that tumblr post thats like “no actually i dont want to fuck busty russian singles in my area” “i do. outta the way gayboy!” but xie lian and me respectively about the ghost city dancers

also love that hua cheng’s idea of pretending not to know xie lian involved personally calling him up to touch his hands for an extended period of time. i mean to be fair it worked but xie lian agrees with me on this so im right

makes sense love it. to be fair if i was a heavenly official i would also come to ghost city to party it up. goth central as rey called it

bandaged boy..... :(

i sincerely hope any adaption would include stuff like this and make it as funny as it is in my head

essentially the equivalent of those little doorknob covers you use to babyproof a house fjadlkfjfasd

hua cheng goth game hard af for having a sentient scimitar that can stare back at you

xie lian closet goth for this one

hua cheng is able to lend out his luck.. interesting. this feels like something that has the potential to end up sad lets see if that happens or not

okay just gonna cut it here. i do like the relationship between hua cheng and xie lian they clearly like each other and find each other funny and interesting and thats nice to see. still not sure what was going on in that first meeting but im guess we’ll find out more and im sure ill have more thoughts as time goes on im not even done with book one

[meangirlsx]

Beetlejuice Comforting the Reader During a Depressive Episode

For anyone who might need this...

Here is a hotline masterpost that appears to be pretty comprehensive with a large variety of hotlines for a large variety of countries.

This looks like it’s only available so far for the United States, Canada, and the UK, but here is a website with information for a crisis text line.

And here is a post with some information you might like to read before you call a hotline.

Finally, here is the post about self-care when you don’t feel up to it that I drew heavily from to write this.

It’s totally okay and human to need help, and it’s totally okay and human to ask for it. It doesn’t make you weak. It takes so much strength to ask for help. You’re stronger than you know, and you don’t have to be alone.

——

When he witnesses an episode for the first time, he’s not really sure what’s going on but he’s concerned nonetheless

He’s popped into your bedroom at night to hang out a bit before you go to bed

“Babe, have you gotten out of bed today?”

“No.”

He thinks you have a cold or flu or something along those lines and starts to try to feel your forehead

So you explain it to him

He takes a second to really process everything you said

“So you are sick, in a way, right?” he asks

Then he taps your forehead and says, “Just in here,” then bops your nose and adds, “instead of in here.”

He thanks you for telling him and trusting him

He tells you he’s sure that’s not an easy thing to talk about and he thinks it’s amazing that you can

“So, we can still cuddle tonight, right?” he asks

“You don’t think I’m all gross?”

“Well, I’ve been told I’m gross, so I’m not sure I’m allowed to judge, and I should just be grateful you’re willing to put up with me. But you’re not gross. You just need a little help, and we all need that sometimes, don’t we?”

You nod

He gets in bed with you and wraps his arms around you

Or keeps a respectable distance if you don’t want to cuddle

“So would you let me help you tomorrow? We don’t have to do much. We’ll start small. Okay?”

You agree

He doesn’t need to sleep but he’ll join you in sleep anyway if you can fall asleep

If you can’t, he’ll have fun finding relaxing things to do with you

ASMR videos? He finds them fascinating

White noise? He has fun trying to mimic the sounds before he realizes he should keep quiet so you can try to sleep or at least relax

If you want something to physically ground you and bring you comfort, he’s more than happy to oblige

He loves to play with your hair or rub your back or anything else that brings you comfort

Or he’ll read quietly to you if you want

Nothing too exciting so it doesn’t break the peaceful state, but his voice is surprisingly calming

By the time the sun has really started to peek through into your room the next morning, you’ve both barely moved

You’re pretty sure he’s awake since he doesn’t need to sleep, but he keeps his eyes closed

You figure he’s giving you a little more time to relax first

So you cuddle back into him for a while

Something about him letting you make the decision instead of forcing it on you makes you want to follow through

So when you feel ready, you touch his arm to get him to open his eyes

“Beej, I think I’m ready.”

His face lights up, already proud of you for this step

He stays with you as you get up and begin to walk through your morning routine

He’s ready to be the most chill cheerleader ever

He wants to make sure you feel supported, but he doesn’t want to be so enthusiastic that he annoys you or makes you feel like you’ll disappoint him if at any point you have to stop or can’t do something

If you can brush your teeth, he’s cheering you on

If you can’t, he helps you find mouthwash, gum, and mints, and lets you choose which one or ones you want to use

If you can shower, and you’re comfortable with it, he’ll help you in any way you need

If you can shower and aren’t comfortable with him joining you or seeing you, he patiently waits outside the shower (or if you don’t have a shower curtain, outside the bathroom)

If you can’t shower, he helps you find dry shampoo and he’ll help you rub it into your scalp if you want him to, and he’ll help you find makeup wipes or baby wipes to give yourself a mini shower

And if you don’t have anything listed above that would help you in your quest to take little steps, he’ll ask Barbara and Adam for advice and go buy them

Yes, buy

He’d come back and tell you waiting in line with a bunch of breathers seems like a waste of time but you’re not a waste of time in the least so it and you are worth it

He’d also buy a reusable water bottle if you don’t have one, but if you do, he’s excited when he discovers it

He fills it up with water whatever temperature you prefer

He doesn’t say anything, he just sets it on your nightstand

He’s thrilled when you drink from it periodically

And he’ll fill it up again when you empty it

He’ll ask how much getting dressed you feel up for

If you feel up for none, he’ll help you lint roll your clothes and even get a little Febreeze

If you feel up for a little, he’ll help you change into another pair of pajamas

(“I mean, we’re not leaving the house, right? Who says you can’t just put on more pajamas?”)

If you feel up for more, he’ll help you get into whatever level of clothing you can manage

Or, of course, if you don’t want or don’t need the help, he’ll politely turn his back and wait for you to finish changing

He’ll tell you that you look great in any level of changing you take on, and he means it

If you can brush your hair, he’ll encourage it

If you aren’t feeling up to it and you’ll let him, he’ll do it for you

He thinks it’s relaxing and he likes feeling so close to you, physically and emotionally

If you don’t want your hair brushed, he’ll help you put it up with hair ties and pins you have laying around, or a headscarf or bandana, if you prefer

Even if you’re not hungry, he’ll help you order food in case you get hungry later

If you can order it yourself, he’s so proud of you

If you can’t, he’s more than happy to do it for you because he’s just proud that you picked out some food

He even has Barbara and Adam confirm that the place you’re ordering from is good

He’ll answer the door to claim the food if you don’t feel up to it

After putting the food in the fridge, or eating some if you feel up to it, he suggests getting a little sunlight and fresh air

If you have access to someplace that feels private, like a backyard, and would like to go, he’s thrilled to go chill outside with you

Or, if you’re up for it, he’ll go on a walk or drive with you

(He’ll promise not to wreck your car, and he’d do his best, but if you feel up to driving, you insist, and if you don’t feel up to it, Barbara and Adam volunteer to come along so one of them can drive)

If not, he’s just as thrilled to open the curtains and a window

He basks in the sunlight like a cat

If you had anything scheduled for the day, like school, work, or meeting up with a friend, he helps you contact them to say you need to take a personal day

“You need today for yourself. We’ll work on going back to the real world tomorrow, yeah? And if you need one more day, we’ll take one more day.”

And you agree

Barbara pops in to remind him to have you ask for work to be sent to you if you’re missing school or work

If you do have work sent to you, he’ll take a break with you and then help you do your work

When you’re done, or if you had no work, he’ll very happily spend time just hanging out with you

Netflix marathon? He’s game

Need a nap? He’s always ready for that

Board games? He thinks they’re unbelievably entertaining

Reading? He likes to watch your face as the story progresses

Magazines? He likes to take the quizzes with you

He’ll also help you clean up some

He’ll turn it into a game

Not a high-energy game so it doesn’t drain you, but he’ll find ways to make it more fun

Throwing trash away is more fun if you literally have to throw it like a basketball into the trash can, right?

That’s what he thinks, at least

And he has plenty of extra limbs that extend as far as he wants, so he can make sure you never miss

You never quite get to figure out what he wanted to turn laundry into because Adam shows up to express his concern that it would cause all the colors to run together

So laundry is made at least more entertaining by Adam teaching Beej everything he knows about doing laundry

Beetlejuice never remembers where everything goes in the kitchen, so he turns doing dishes into a really bad guessing game

He tells you making your bed will be fun because you can jump on it after you’re done

He realizes then that that’s probably not the best selling point (unless it is, in which case he’s over the moon to jump on the bed with you)

He reminds you how much cozier it will feel when it’s all nicely made

He even calls Barbara to work a little extra mom magic on it because a made bed always feels better when it has the Mom Tuck

You hadn’t noticed before, but he timed it out perfectly so that you have a warm blanket coming out of the dryer as you finish making your bed

Barbara and Adam give Beetlejuice the Very Important Task of checking the rest of the house to make sure everything got cleaned up

They know it did, they actually just don’t quite trust him to fold clothes neatly or leave them very clean

They help you fold and put away your clothes so you can get it done quickly and snuggle in under the warm blanket

Although you’re pretty sure Beej is using some sort of supernatural power because the blanket stays warm even after it should’ve lost its heat

If you haven’t eaten by now, Barbara and Adam will bring you your food heated up so you can eat at least a little bit

Then they recap the day you had to remind you how much you got done and they tell you how proud they are of you

They each give you a hug and go on their way

Beetlejuice takes the opportunity to thank you for letting him help and working hard today even when you didn’t want to, and to tell you how proud he is of you, too

And he means every word

[portraitoftheoddity]

A Fic Writer’s Guide to Cold Weather Whump

Maybe you got “Hypothermia” on your hurt/comfort bingo square. Maybe you want an excuse for your OTP to cuddle together for warmth. For whatever reason, you’re writing a fic where the cold is the enemy for your characters. But... maybe you aren’t especially familiar with the perils of cold weather.

I rambled a lot about hiding tracks in snow in this post and got some feedback from folks who had never encountered snow, which made me realize that this guide might be handy for writers who live in warm climates!

(Please note that I am not a professional and this information is presented for writing purposes, not actual medical or survival advice)

What Are We Dealing With - Exposure Conditions

The two biggest dangers for characters stuck out in the cold are Hypothermia and Frostbite.

HYPOTHERMIA -- the condition of dangerously low body temperature. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 F (37 C). Hypothermia occurs as your body temperature falls below 95 F (35 C). Usually hypothermia is a danger in freezing temperatures, but it’s possible to get it in the 30-50ºF range if you’re wet or not dressed properly for an extended period of time. Basically, any time your body loses heat faster than it produces it, hypothermia can happen.

Three main ways to lose body heat (apart from regular heat loss through radiation) are:

Direct Contact with something cold -- A character chained to a cold stone wall, or a block of ice, for instance. If you’re in contact with something that is very good at conducting your body heat away from you, rather than insulating, you’ll chill down faster. (Important for characters with cybernetics or metal limbs! Lookin’ at you, Winter Soldier...)

Water/Moisture -- a character taking a dunk in ice water, even for a matter of seconds, is in a serious situation. You can freeze to death very fast in cold water, and even if you’re just wet, moisture conducts heat away from the body. Clothes made of cotton that are wet from snow (cotton is the enemy in winter!) or damp from sweat are also going to contribute to heat loss; a character that’s been sweating from exertion will get chilled quickly once they stop moving. 

Wind -- Wind whisks warmth away from your body, cooling you down faster. In cold climates, you often have a weather forecast that includes windchill. This is because, even if the ambient temperature is, say, 25ºF, with 25 MPH wind, you could lose body heat as fast as if you were standing in an ambient temperature of 9ºF (this would be a windchill of 9ºF).

So your character locked in a walk-in freezer will lose heat through radiation, but it will take them longer to become hypothermic than say, a character who fell through the ice of a frozen lake, or a character wandering through a snowstorm with no coat -- even if the actual temperature is the same in the freezer, the water, and the snowstorm.

Other risk factors for hypothermia include age (young children and the elderly may fall victim to hypothermia faster), exhaustion, malnutrition, and alcohol (booze makes you feel warm, but it also makes your blood vessels expand so you lose heat faster!).

So, what happens when you’re hypothermic?

Symptoms of mild hypothermia (core temperature of 95ºF) include shivering, and rapid pulse and breathing, minor clumsiness. Your character may also start to experience low blood sugar, exacerbating other symptoms as they develop.

As your character gets colder, moderate hypothermia symptoms may include confusion, slurred speech, and loss of coordination. At a core temperature of 91ºF (33ºC), amnesia/memory loss can happen.

No longer shivering, and decreased heartrate, pulse, and blood pressure are signs of severe hypothermia. Reflexes may no longer be present, eyes are dilated, person is incoherent/irrational, and hallucinations can happen. At 82ºF (28ºC) a person will likely lose consciousness, and can expect a heartrate of 30 beats per minute.

Below 70ºF (21ºC), profound hypothermia occurs, and potentially death. (The record for the lowest body temperature at which an adult has been known to survive is 56.7ºF (13.7ºC))

In moderate-to-severe hypothermia, paradoxical undressing can happen -- this when someone abruptly feels warm and starts to pull their clothes off, often speeding up the process of hypothermia to a fatal conclusion. Another strange behavior that happens in severe hypothermia is terminal burrowing -- a primitive, instinctual urge to find and curl up in an enclosed space like a hibernating animal in some last-ditch effort to survive.

A severely hypothermic character may appear dead. They may be rigid, blue, and curled up in a fetal position. Another character can determine if they’re alive by trying to open their arm up from the fetal position; if it curls back up, the person is alive. Dead muscles won’t contract!

Because hypothermia inhibits brain function and causes confusion, people with hypothermia often don’t realize they’re hypothermic, and then proceed to have poor judgement, further endangering themselves. If you think that REALLY STUPID decision to go back out in the blizzard is out of character for your protagonist -- not when they’re hypothermic, it’s not!

But cold weather danger doesn’t stop with hypothermia. When you’re cold, your body will prioritize keeping your brain and your core warm by shutting off circulation to your extremities. This increases your chances of survival, but it also puts you at greater risk of:

FROSTBITE -- tissue damage caused by extreme cold, either from the formation of ice crystals within tissue or loss of circulation. Frostbite typically affects fingers and toes, though it can also affect ears and the tip of one’s nose.

Frostbite is a risk when a character is exposed to severe cold for a long period of time, when a character is out in the elements and there’s cold plus wind, or if they’re at high altitude. If you’re committed to realism but don’t wanna have to write your characters dealing with frostbite, consider giving them adequate gloves and boots!

First degree frostbite, or frostnip, is a mild condition that is reversible without lasting damage. When you have frostnip, your skin turns white or red and cold to the touch, and may begin to feel numb or experience a prickling sensation. It hurts like a bitch on rewarming (you might have some swelling and redness for a while), but it should be fine within a few hours, as long as there’s no further exposure. It’s possible to experience peeling, such as with a sunburn, in the following weeks. If your character is out in extreme cold that they aren’t dressed properly for, frostnip at the very least is likely (I’ve gotten it just from trying to dig my car out of the snow with bare hands for 10 minutes on a really cold day).

Second degree frostbite, or superficial frostbite is more serious. Skin might start to change color, turning red, or very pale and waxy, or even blue-ish. The area might be hard to the touch and swollen, indicating the formation of ice crystals in the skin (you know how your body is 70% water? Guess what water does when it gets real cold!). Rewarming is painful, and will result in some really nasty fluid-filled blisters, which are at risk for infection. You can recover fully from superficial frostbite, though it’s also possible that the affected area may have enduring cold sensitivity, pain or numbness.

Third/fourth degree frostbite, or deep frostbite, is when we start losing body parts. At this stage, not only is the skin affected, but also the underlying tissues. Skin will look blue-ish and mottled, the affected area will likely be numb and not move properly. This is when tissue death and permanent damage happens. On rewarming, there’s a risk of blood clots, and the frozen area will be black and hard and may require eventual amputation. Severely damaged/dead tissue may fall off on its own (auto-amputation) within a couple months.

Frostbite is treated with rewarming, but only start rewarming if the tissue won’t be refrozen again! More on treatment below.

(Side note: if you ever find yourself with either second or third degree frostbite, please seek medical attention immediately!)

Cold and Other Injuries & Illnesses

What if your character is already hurt before they wind up in a winter not-so-wonderland?

Well, hypothermia is a pretty big deal for trauma patients, and adding hypothermia on top of a serious injury reduces survival rates significantly. Part of this is due to the double-whammy that the body’s vascular system is now enduring, with stress from injury & blood loss as well as from cold. Another part of it is that hypothermia can impair clotting mechanisms, leading to more internal bleeding. A character who has suffered from physical trauma is also more likely to develop hypothermia before an uninjured character, as shock impedes the body’s ability to control temperature.

The stress of cold on the body can also exacerbate sickness. Frostbite and hypothermia weaken the body and its immune system, so a character already dealing with illness or infection will likely get worse, even if the cold itself isn’t going to make them ill outside of hypothermia. (Being chilly isn’t going to spontaneously give you pneumonia).

Surviving in the Cold - Staying Warm & Alive

So the temperature is getting pretty cold. What should your characters do?

If they’re prepared, they should be wearing layers of appropriate warm clothing and have plenty of gear. But since we’re talking about fic and we’re all here for the drama, let’s just assume these idiots are unprepared and are therefor gonna be having a bad time.

If they’re outside in the elements, their priority should be finding shelter. They want someplace ideally warm, dry, and out of the wind -- though I’d recommend starting with out of the wind above all else. If they’re in the wilderness and there’s no convenient abandoned cabins, a natural cave, or a pine tree with lots of low, thick branches might form a shelter. If it’s snowing, they can also build a snow cave or snow shelter -- fresh snow is actually a really good insulator, and while a snow cave isn’t exactly toasty, it’s a lot better than being out in the wind!

Once shelter is achieved, your characters will probably want to make a fire, if possible, to warm up by. However, if there’s nothing dry and flammable around, a fire might not be possible, and if bad guys are chasing them, either the light or smoke from a fire might give away their position (though if they need rescue, that might be a good thing!)

If your characters aren’t in the wilderness, they’ll still want to look for shelter that’s out of the wind if they’re outdoors, and any possible means of insulating body heat. Layering as much as possible is good -- if they don’t have enough layers of clothes, they can layer newspaper or plastic bags between what clothes they have to create extra insulation. Plastic is a good insulator, and also protects them from getting wet (though they wanna be careful about wrapping too much of themselves in plastic in case they start to sweat -- that’s also dangerous!). I’ve definitely worn plastic bags as liners inside my boots to protect and insulate my feet in winter. If your characters need to sleep in the cold, finding some insulation between their bodies and the cold ground will help them.

Your characters are also going to have to worry about food and drink. The human body uses up a LOT of energy trying to stay warm, so your characters may be suffering from low blood sugar on top of everything else. Dehydration is also a concern. Melting snow is an easy enough source of water, but you’ll want to have them melt it before drinking, instead of just eating snow. Eating snow chills you from the inside and uses up valuable energy!

Warming Your Characters Up - Treatment

Once your poor frozen darlings are out of the elements, they’re gonna wanna warm up!

If your characters are in wet clothes, they’re going to want to get out of those -- if possible -- to dry them off. Wet clothes -- especially cotton -- leech away precious body heat. (If your face just lit up at the idea of getting your characters nekkid, my friend, it gets better!)

Getting a hypothermic character out of the cold is step one, but warming them up is step two. Placing them somewhere warm and dry and wrapping them with blankets to trap their own meager body heat against them will help -- google “how to make a hypothermia wrap” for directions on how to turn your character into a toasty blanket burrito. If their own body is seriously chilled, adding external warmth might be needed (note: warmth, not heat. Too much direct, intense heat can cause a shock to the system! Hot baths are a BIG NO)  --

If they have access to warm hot compresses/chemical heat packs, placing those in the groin, neck and chest areas will help rewarm a person.

Consider giving one of your characters a metal canteen or water bottle -- they’ll be able to fill this with snow and then stick it in their fire to melt the snow and warm it for drinking and a source of heat they can hold to their body. Sipping warm water will help them warm up internally!

In absence of other options: NAKED CUDDLING. Another person’s direct body heat via skin-to-skin contact will help warm up your character (and makes for great UST).

If your characters have been hospitalized and have severe hypothermia, they may be treated with blood rewarming (pumping the blood out of the body, warming it up, and pumping it right back in) or warm intravenous fluids.

Hypothermic characters should also be kept awake, if possible, until safely warmed. Feeding them is also going to help! Give them calories to burn, and hydrate them up!

If they are severely-to-profoundly hypothermic and are struggling with their breathing, rescue breathing timed with the hypothermic person’s breathing can provide supplemental oxygen and, more importantly, heated air going directly into the person’s body core (rather then the cold environmental air).

For characters with frostbite -- there’s the temptation to have them rub warmth back into their extremities since we seek heat from friction, but they may damage themselves further this way. Rubbing a frostbite-affected area will cause additional injury. The best way to warm frostbitten skin is with lukewarm water, though you can also warm frostbitten fingers by tucking them into your armpits to warm them with your own core body heat, or blowing warm breath on them. Intense direct heat from heating pads or a fire are NOT a great idea. Since the tissue is numb, frostbitten patients may experience burns from direct heat sources without realizing.

If your character is frostbitten badly enough to have blisters, they will want to loosely and gently bandage the affected area if possible.

Frostbitten skin should only be rewarmed if there’s no risk of refreezing, since freezing and thawing repeatedly is gonna really hurt your character (or, I dunno, maybe that’s part of your whump plan, in which case -- go for it!!)

Obviously, you can write your whumpfic as realistically or as unrealistically as you damn well please, and you can choose to have your characters make bad choices that go against conventional wisdom and medical recommendations. This guide mainly provides suggestions if you wanna incorporate realistic details one way or another, but ultimately, it’s your story to tell however you want. Have fun, and stay warm!

Additional Resources:

Windchill chart:  https://www.weather.gov/media/safety/windchillchart3.pdf

Frostbite calculator: https://public.tableau.com/profile/adam.crahen#!/vizhome/BabyitscoldoutsideWindChillFrostBite/Brrrrrr

How to Build a Shelter: https://adventure.howstuffworks.com/survival/wilderness/how-to-build-a-shelter.htm

[underwaterwoods]

so i saw the star war

spoilers ahoy

i guess this is just gonna be random bullet points

* i actually feel pretty chill about it. yay for being spoiled. also like.... if you ignore the ridiculous stuff there’s actually a lot to have fun with in this one. i don’t know how i’ll feel about it once i’ve processed it more. i just know i had fun while watching it, which i know isn’t true for everybody. i totally understand the negativity - it all makes sense to me. i’m just glad i sort of.... FORCED myself to have enough distance to just go in like ‘i’M PrepArED fOr wHAtEveR’

*i did like all the jumping around between locations in the first half and how ben would show up everywhere rey was. what a ‘you’re everywhere i go’ pairing. /chef’s kiss/. also having the different locations gives a sense of spaciousness (even if it’s all happening over a short period of time) which i missed in tlj.

*one of the things that gave me the most joy as the hux thing ??? X’’’D it was EXACTLY like that ‘the farce awakens’ ep where hux LITERALLY JOINS THE RESISTANCE cuz he can’t stand kylo. like what kind of fanfic...... how do the hux fans out there feel? (i really love the hux fans they’re a great bunch XD). shame that he was gone right after though.

* i actually enjoyed the trio dynamic? like i get the desire to move away from ‘trio mentality’ but the rey/poe tension with finn as mediator was fun. and finn and poe as joint generals? adorable. shame that the whole finn/poe thing got a bit clouded by.... stormpilot baiting and rose erasure and all the things... Also i’m not anti any character - i like zorii - but.... let poe stay a gay icon? i guess he can still be a queer icon it’s all good i’m down for whatever.

*speaking of finn.... loved seeing more of his humour back. didn’t love that there was no unpacking of how he feels taking out stormtroopers. but loved the found family of jannah and the other ex-stormtroopers. i feel like that gave SOME resolution/depth to finn’s origins. and finn being a non force user but seemingly super attuned to the force and its ways? i can roll with that.

*more speaking of finn... i wonder what they were doing with the ‘thing he wants to tell rey that he never gets to tell rey’. seems like an obvious ‘i love you’ thing. but at the same time we got reylo (/basks in that for a second/). it feels to me like throwing a bone to the finnrey people? like they didn’t get it in this movie but it could be a thing in the future? regaurdless, i did like how finn and rey were very connected and back to that loving friendship they had in tfa. we never quite got the ‘you have a force bond with the supreme leader?!!’ conversation but we got.... SOME conversation.

* speaking of the supreme leader... kinda love that we got renperor AND ben solo TM. i prefer to view ben more holistically (he is both ‘ben’ and ‘kylo’) but i get that making them two distinct identities was a helpful shortcut of sorts. he could ‘kill’ kylo and switch to being ben in a single scene. i always prefer Soft Boi Ben but if we were gonna get Bad Boy Kylo i’m glad they established it right out the gate. it was like ok, this is what to expect; this is where we’re at with this character. 

*ben with his costume change at the end....... omg. gave me BIG smuggler!Ben vibes. urgh, give me all the AUs. ben deserves more.

*the amount of swagger when he was fighting the KOR

*idk i feel like i’m not even touching on the big stuff. this was just a ‘get all my side thoughts out of my system’ post.

*adam’s smile after the kiss though......... ...  /the most beautiful thing in this world/

*truly iconic that people were right about the strategic, covert introduction of force healing via baby yoda like one month before tros.

*oh yeah it was wILD that so much of the imagery from the trailers/tv spots etc was in like the first five mintues of the movie ??? i totally assumed the ‘i have been every voice you’ve ever heard inside your head’ moment would be climactic rather than right up front

*oh yeah the vader mask.... that didn’t really mean anything in the end then did it?

* re: ben’s death. maybe it’s because i was braced for it but in some ways it’s the best way he could have gone. he was definitely happy and reunited with the light - both through love of rey and of his family. hIGHKey could have done with ben’s force ghost also appearing at the end? the only good thing about not seeing it is.... LF deciding to retcon his death ? ??XD obs they’re not gonna but if you want a crackpot silver lining there it is.

*what exactly does rey’s future look like, may i ask?

* oh yeah, Passing The Saber Through The Force. maybe my favourite moment. the force bond as a bare concept is so romantic to me i would watch a whole trilogy just exploring the magic system of that - it’s limitations and possibilities. 

* i do like that jj developed the visual style of the bond. we got to see them occupying the same space, the way each of them would be seeing the other (’can you see my surroundings, i can’t see yours, just you’)

*i miss that rian johnson sound editing on the bond though..... god, the iNTIMACY of the tlj bond scenes....

*’i DID want to take your hand’

*also just the word choice of ‘take your hand’/ ‘i offered you my hand’. it’s extremely marriage.

*there was also a moment in the hanger when ben was like ‘we’re one’ basically? he was saying it in the context of rey’s lineage but still...............the validation. one soul. 

*palps was like ‘you live and die together’ which made me REALLY think of skytalkers podcast. obviously assumed they would both have to LIVE together but.... /deep sigh/

*blah this could go on forever i’ll add more later

edit #1:

* OH YEAH! reverse anidala was such a thing! why did it have to be SO reverse anidala though? X’D instead of taking her life, he gives her his own. (i know it’s not clear anakin totally killed padme etc etc but ya feel me)

* ok i hate that ben died obvs obvs but, taking that for what it is, it was very romeo and juliet. i kinda love just the imagery of it. like... the physical blocking/choreography of adam getting daisy into his arms, holding her, then he falls and it’s her holding him. the way she catches his neck. really reminded me of the smoothness of the bridal carry. and rey’s flexed foot in that moment of shock. love the body language. back to that kind of ‘’staccato’’ rey of tfa days.

edit #2:

*lololol @ LF trying to establish how ‘bad’ kylo is by having him kill a bunch of people in the beginning. it was just.... Hot.

edit #3:

* rose deserves better. obviously. she looked so good though. i like that she had some moments with connix too. 

* ben called han ‘dad’......

*ben standing there, overlooking the waves, with his leG EXTENDED BEFORE HIM. wanderer above a sea of fog. wanderer above a sea of foggg.

* rey having compassion for the snake thing. we been knew. kinda nice to have it in there. obviously good set up for ~later force healing shenanigans~

* OH YEAH OH YEAH. i kept thinking about atla. i know people have been making comparisons to it from the start and i’ve been DEEPLY INTO those comparisons. but it was truly a blessing for me to remember.... there is a version of this out there that you love and that is Good Content TM. legit i can just go watch atla again to heal from this. omg yeah cuz REY HEALING HIS WOUND ALSO HEALED HIS SCAR. very crystal cave.......... nah but nah but - the ‘you are every jedi’ was EXTREMELY avatar-esk..... like, engage avatar state. i don’t like how it ended up being the same old conflict between jedi and sith - ‘good’ and ‘bad’ - OBVIOUSLY THE POINT IS TO INTEGRATE THE CONFLICTING PARTS OF SELF; THE SHADOW SIDE; TO TRANSCEND OLD DICHOTOMIES - but i did love hearing all the voices from past jedi. that’s some good ‘the ancestors are with you’ shit.

edit #4:

* i think the first thing we hear rey say is ‘be with me’? ngl i was like ‘pls be invoking the force bond’ X’D i am a clown. that was a beautiful shot though. and love that a version of the bond kicked in like two seconds after that. 

edit #5:

*there’s that bit where reylo are fighting on the death star ruins and he’s winning and rey kinda falls to her knees panting and lowkey defeated and, not to be a shallow bitch but..... it was Hot.

*also dark rey......... was HOT. SHE WAS SO KIRA, WHATEVER THE FUCK THAT MEANS, AND I WAS INTO IT LIKE HNGGGG

*obvs i wanted rey to be truly no one. but casting jodie comer as rey’s mum ? ????? urgh, pefection, i love it.

*palps was so random i stg..... his plan was.... convoluted to say the least. 

*also who was under all those hoods?

*the KOR just kinda... being around again was hilarious. no explaination required. the boys are back in town. ben facing them without a mask and essentially wearing his pjs? loved it. 

edit #6:

*seriously though ben’s redemption outfit.............. /heart eyes emoji into the sunset/.......... you can see his collar bone.............. /cares about the important things/.................

edit #7:

*one thing i loved about the reylo was how Space Wizards TM they both were in this movie. it so highlights their connection by making it clear that they are each other’s only peer. i thought it would be a thing of ‘why is the supreme leader constantly interacting with/going after this girl?’ but it’s not because it’s so clear that they are the only two people on each others’ level. no one would dare question the fact that they’re constantly circling each other in a lustful murderous rage.

[caindoglover]

Reflex

Can’t stop, won’t stop.

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12767841/5/The-Creepslayerz

Enjoy!

Eli trudges home after another long day of school, grumbling to himself all the while. However it isn’t the school part that has got him irritated. In fact, school was pretty okay today. He was able to talk to Steve more than usual and they finished their tasks in gym so quickly that they were allowed to slip off to the library and just chill together in the back. No, the terrible thing is that he now has to come home.

“Eli?” his mother calls from the living room.

“Yeah, I’m home.” He hopes that will be the end of it and he can go to his room without having to deal with another lecture or invasion of his privacy. After their first night out creepslaying, more specifically him wrecking her car, his mother has refused to let him out of the house after school. Only on the weekends is he allowed more freedom and even then it takes a lot of convincing. Lies.

“Come here.”

Eli sighs beneath his breath and rolls his eyes before changing course and heading to her. He reaches in his pocket, ready for the words that always come next.

“Phone.” She holds out a hand and looks hard at him.

Eli drops it into her palm, but shakes his head nonetheless. “It’s been a month, mother. And there’s never anything on there. I don’t text people. I don’t have any friends.”

“You can say that all you want, it’s not going to make a difference.” She scrolls through the history on his phone. “You wrecked my car and this is your punishment. I don’t want you making any plans, especially not with that boy.”

Eli scoffs and crosses his arms. “Even if we were friends, it’s not like you’d ever find any evidence on that phone.”

She snaps her head up. “Excuse me?”

Eli looks away. “Nothing.”

“Listen here.” She points a finger at him. “You may be smart, but you’re not smarter than your mother. Don’t make me take your phone away completely.”

Eli’s eyes widen. “No! You can’t do that. I need it for school,” his voice cracks even more than usual.

“Then watch yourself.” She hands him the phone back.

Eli snatches it away and clutches it close to his chest. “Yes, mother.” He bows his head. “I’m going to my room now.” He scurries away before she has the chance to go back on her leniency. He slams the door behind him and the sound reminds him so much of how Steve entered his room that first day. He huffs. Steve hasn’t been back since.

He throws himself onto his bed and hurries to open messenger. He fingers fly over the keys as he types away. ‘Sorry I didn’t meet up after school. Had to go home right away. Mother got mad last time I stayed after.’

A soft ding sounds a few seconds later. ‘No offense, but your mom needs to take a chill pill. She’s like some kind of jailer.’

‘She’s just worried about me I guess.’

‘You guess? Is poster boy Eli getting tired of mommy’s rules?’ Steve laughs and puts in the matching emoji.

‘Shut up. This is a problem. If I can’t leave the house then we’re never going to be able to creep slay again.’ His heart sinks at the mere thought.

‘Just leave.’                                                                                                             

‘What? Are you crazy? She’d find out for sure and then we won’t even be able to text like this.’ Eli grimaces. That’s an even worse prospect than no creepslaying.

‘Wuss.’

Eli sticks his tongue out at the screen, as if Steve can see it. In all honesty Steve probably expected as much and is visualizing it without Eli saying anything at all.

There is a long space of silence where Eli isn’t sure what to send back. Really the only thing he can do is call Steve names right back and he doesn’t want to squabble. Then his phone dings again. ‘Well, I’m going out. If you change your mind, I’ll be in the woods. Some people were talking about monsters. Prolly just a bear, but whatever.’

Eli groans and flops his head into the pillow. It just isn’t fair. It’s the creepslayerz, not the creepslayer. He is missing way too many missions over his mother being freakishly protective and suspicious. Yeah, ok, she’s right to be suspicious for once, but that’s not the point! He needs to get out of here. Just for a few hours. His brow creases as he thinks hard on it. No way is he getting out before six. But maybe…maybe he can manage it after dinner. She rarely checks on him after that.

So for what feels like an eternity he waits. The hours stretch on for days in his mind and he is on the verge of imploding when finally, finally his mother calls him for dinner. He is extra careful not to step out of line and even leaves his phone in his room to prove to her he is not waiting for any kind of secret message. They talk heartily about school, her work, and trips they have planned for the future and she never stops smiling. Good. This is definitely in his favor.

He leaves the kitchen with a skip in his step and launches into action. He pulls on his black shirt and pants and snaps the helmet on around his chin. He hurries to the window, but stops with his foot on the sill. His eye catches on his phone. He’d like to believe she won���t come up here period, but if she does she will definitely thumb through his phone. He grabs it and deletes all the messages. For good measure he sends a decoy text to Toby. ‘Be there in ten.’ He’ll think it’s weird and ask about it later, but he’ll get over it. Anything to throw his mother off the trail. Better to blame Toby than suspect Steve.

With that he slips out the window and jumps off the side of the roof. He makes his way across town and to the woods on his bike. It takes thirty minutes, way longer than if he had gone on Steve's Vespa, but he wasn't going to interrupt Steve's creepslaying just so he could shave off a handful of minutes. Besides, his mother has keen hearing, especially when it comes to vehicles now. If she heard anything remotely like a motorcycle she'd be up and in his room before he could even get out the window. So biking is fine.

He creeps through the woods, keeping an eye out for any creatures as he searches for Steve. Like Steve said, even if there are no monsters, there are still bears that live out here. And if he was attacked now Steve wouldn’t be here to save him. Then again, even Steve probably couldn’t do much against a bear. He chuckles to himself. He really puts too much faith in Steve’s strength. He’s no trollhunter, just a human, just like him.

After another few minutes he sees a figure ahead of him. Steve. He moves a little faster. As he comes within reach, he extends his hand and touches Steve’s shoulder. “St-”

Steve snaps his hand up, seizes Eli’s arm, and twists with all his might as he pivots to face whoever it is. His eyes catch fire and his lips are a snarl.

Electric pain shoots up Eli’s arm and he screams.

Steve starts and jerks his hand back as if he just touched a hot iron. His eyes widen and horror contorts his expression. “S-Sorry, I didn’t-I mean, I-” He breathes deeply in and out. Terror strangles him and his hands shake.

Eli cradles his arm and shrinks away from Steve. He tries his best to swallow his whimpers. He has never felt such crippling pain. Even when those boys beat him senseless, it was nothing like this. Did he break it? He peeks timidly up at Steve. Steve looks like he is an inch away from a panic attack. He clearly didn’t mean to do this. Then why? “Steve…?” he ventures.

“I…” Steve’s heart pounds in his ears. His head spins as his world tilts hard on its axis. All he can do is grasp for the smallest bit of security, a horrible crutch. “It’s your fault!” Anger flares in his eyes. “You should have known better than to sneak up on me,” his words are harsh, but there is a note of distress in each word.

Eli ducks his head. He doesn’t know what he is supposed to say to that. Sorry? He didn’t really do anything wrong, not to deserve this pain. Moreover, since they became friends, Steve has told him over and over again not to be so sorry for everything. Saying it now might just make Steve madder.

Steve lets out a shuddery sigh and crosses his arms in a way that looks more like he is hugging himself as he looks pointedly away from Eli. He can’t bear the look on his face. “What are you even doing here?”

“You said if I changed my mind I could come. And I didn’t feel like being a wuss.” He ekes out his best attempt at a laugh, anything to lighten the mood, but it verges on sounding like a sob. His stupid arm. It just hurts so much.

Steve goes rigid, his eyes widen, and he feels suddenly sick. The air becomes so much thicker. Wuss. It was an innocent comment when he sent the text, but now, framed in this way, the word makes his lips curl in disgust. “Yeah, well, I changed my mind!” he snaps. “So go home, Pepperjack.”

Eli’s expression crumbles. Pepperjack? He hasn’t called him that since their first night as Creepslayerz, at least not when there is no one else around. He bites his lip with force, a last ditch effort to redirect the pain in his arm and keep his emotions from welling over. “Why are you being so mean?”

Steve is cut to the quick by Eli’s pitiful voice. ”Please, just go,” his own voice wavers. Any more of this and he is going to crack. He can feel it. His façade will crumble under the weight of the guilt.

“I can’t,” Eli whimpers. “I rode my bike. And my arm…it hurts so much.” It will take at least an hour if not more to make it back to his house like this.

Steve presses a hand to his head. “I really am just like him.”

Eli blinks. “Him?” He has a sneaking suspicion he knows exactly who him is. All that has transpired here put together with Steve’s behavior before they formed the Creepslayerz, it leads to a horrible conclusion.

Something between a laugh and a sob passes Steve’s lips. “I am. Horrible. Hurting people…people who care about me. I did it before and I’ll do it again.” He grips both sides of his head and his words descend into a babbling mess, “Brute, savage, cruel, vicious, just like him, daddy’s little monster.”

Eli stares wide eyed, frozen. Steve is spiraling and about to crash and burn. But he has no idea what to do to stop it. He probably wouldn’t hear him anyway. It’s like Steve is locked in a battle with his own mind.

“No.” Steve bursts out.

Eli jumps at the sharpness.

“I’m not,” he insists. “I’m. Not.” Tears prick at his eyes. He hasn’t cried since he was a child. “I didn’t mean to. I didn’t like it. It wasn’t fun. It’s not the same. I’m not like him.”

Eli can’t bear this. He scrambles through all the knowledge in his head to try and find a way to end this. He thinks back to that first night, when Steve was freaking out over the gruesome. He was unresponsive at first, but he did break through to him. “Steve.” He snaps his fingers an inch from Steve’s face.

Steve jerks to attention and his gaze snaps to Eli.

Eli lets out a breath. It worked. “Steve, it’s alright. I know you didn’t mean to hurt me. Ok?” He holds his breath and prays that this helps ground Steve.

Steve blinks and tears shake free. He starts and wipes at his eyes in an attempt to scrub away the slightest sign of weakness. “Stupid…eyes…” he grumbles.

Eli looks to the side. “So…will you take me home?” This outing has been a disaster. All he wants to do is get home before his mother finds out he left, if she hasn’t discovered it already.

Steve feels so small in that moment as Eli refuses to look at him. Eli hasn’t been this tentative toward him since they formed the creepslayerz and seeing it hurts more than any physical blow ever could. “Eli…” he whispers. “I really am sorry.” He lifts a hand as if to touch Eli, but can’t bring himself to follow through. He doesn’t deserve the privilege. “It wasn’t your fault. I just…” he searches for the right words, a way to say it without saying it.

“I know.” Eli smiles sadly as he returns his gaze to Steve. “But you don’t have to push me away when it happens. That just hurts more.”

“I just…don’t know how to do anything.” He shakes his head. What a stupid way to say it.

“Emotions are hard.” Eli shrugs. “I mean, if they weren’t, my mom wouldn’t make a living as a therapist.” He half laughs, but sombers quickly. “You just have to work on it. And if you want, I’ll always be here to help.” He offers a genuine smile.

“How are you real? You…you’re just too good of a person.” Anyone else would have ditched him the moment he laid a hand on them and they certainly wouldn’t offer to stay by his side and help on top of it.

“You’re good too,” Eli insists. “I’ve seen it.” He lays a hand on Steve’s arm. “Don’t let a few slips make you think otherwise.”

Steve smiles. “Thanks, pepperbuddy.”

Eli beams. That is by far his favorite nickname.

“Wanna go home now?” He definitely isn’t in the right headspace to be out hunting for creepers now anyway.

Eli nods and he turns away, heading toward the end of the woods. “Oh.” His eyes widen as he realizes something. “But you have to drop me off a few blocks away from my house.”

Steve raises a brow and watches Eli curiously as he follows. “Why?”

“My mother can hear motorcycles a mile away now. So thanks for that.”

Steve grins from ear to ear and laughs. “Your house really is a prison.” One he supposes he’ll have to get used to breaking into. It will be far easier to do that than sneak Eli out. Because not seeing Eli is not an option anymore, and he’s getting real tired of their school cover shtick. So, sometime…he’ll definitely have to give it a shot.

They won't ever go here on the show, but if you ask me, Steve would almost definitely have this kind of reflex when it comes to people coming up behind him without announcing themselves. Maybe in the show he wasn't even physically abused, I don't know, but I wanted to play with the idea. The next one I do will be lighter I swear. lol

[caliconnected]

Valentine’s Day Exclusive: Does Cannabis Make Sex Better?

Many experienced cannabis users can get stimulated by the simple sight of marijuana, whether it be a frosty nug or a potent edible. In contrast, many inexperienced users can get aroused at the idea of introducing a mind-altering substance like weed into their sex life. But does using cannabis actually lead to better sex?

Well, most people understand that marijuana is regarded for its euphoric effects with users commonly reporting improved mood, increased sexual desire, and boosted arousal. Cannabis is known to magnify senses like touch, smell, sight, taste, and hearing. Scientifically speaking, there’s still a lot to learn about the relationship between cannabis and sex due to the lack of substantial and concrete research, but there is plenty of evidence to make a solid educated guess.

The Long History of Cannabis and Sex

Although the trend of cannabis use seems to be picking up steam lately thanks to expanding legalization, the medicinal plant has a substantial and ancient history that stretches far back before any war on drugs. Long before there was “Netflix and Chill” there was “Cannabis and Chill.” Humans have been using cannabis for pleasure enhancement throughout the world for many centuries.

One of the earliest mentions of the sexual use of cannabis comes from ancient Egypt, where records identify hemp seeds as having positive effects on male fertility. Closeby, the ancient Romans were sure to include cannabis in a formula known as “Satyricon.” This formula was intended to purify men who worshipped the Greek god of the erect penis, Priapus. In a sacred ritual, a priest would bind a man’s hands and feet and then rectally insert a dildo covered with Satyricon. The alleged effects included an intoxicating high along with a strong erection. Now doesn't that sound lovely?

Fast forward a few years and hemp was used by anxious brides in Soviet Russia to ease the pain of losing their virginity on their wedding nights. It remained in use for this reason in Uzbekistan until World War II, where some women created a recipe of marijuana, sugar, and spices. A 2005 study done in Africa found that men in Uganda had also been using cannabis for centuries to combat erectile dysfunction. And to this day, many people in Serbia believe that wearing hemp improves their overall sexuality. Whether it was for pain relief or rock hard erections, there's no doubt that hemp has a long history of being closely associated with better sex.

Indica Vs. Sativa: Which should I use for sex?

Sativa: let’s go outside

Indica: let’s take a seat

So, classically speaking, Sativa leaning strains like Pineapple Fields and Sour Diesel are thought to provide a burst of sexual energy and are among the most touted strains for sexual satisfaction. While there are many reports that Sativas can bring out an excited friskiness, an Indica’s effects are reported to be better suited for a low-key snuggle or make-out session.

But when it really comes down to choosing between Indica vs. Sativa to improve your sex life, experts and users are relying on these designations less and less as time goes on. Regardless of being Indica or Sativa, a plant’s effects can be deeply affected by many factors, like how it is grown, processed, and consumed.

For example, an Indica cannabis plant (commonly associated with a relaxing body high) that is harvested too early can have more energizing effects than a Sativa plant (associated with a stimulating head high) that was harvested late. The actual chemistry of each individual plant develops and changes as the plant grows. So when it comes to sex and cannabis, most experts agree that the focus shouldn’t be on Indica/Sativa classification but instead on the real prom king and queen of cannabis chemistry: cannabinoids and terpenes.

Cannabinoids and their effects on sex

Whether you munch, apply, or toke on cannabis, your brain is undoubtedly getting flooded with cannabinoids. More specifically, your endocannabinoid system is getting flooded, the same system known to help regulate sexual function. Different cannabinoid recipes lead to various outcomes that could affect your sex life, such as an increase in dopamine, which plays a central role in how we experience pleasure.

Finishing too fast? Research on animals has shown that stimulating the CB1 receptor, one of the main players in your endocannabinoid system, delays ejaculation. With more extended sessions, you want to be sure and stay awake by avoiding sleepy cannabinoids like CBN. And of course, there is the darling duo of THC and CBD, which both have shown great promise in enhancing sexual experiences. From studies based on self-reporting, marijuana strains with high THC levels tend to cause the user a relaxing and warm body high. When you add CBD into the mix, users report that same body high with a delightful mood elevation, a sensual combination. CBD is also known to guard against too much THC flooding your brain, so you won’t be too high to perform.

Terpenes and their effects on sex

Smell and taste have long been associated with sexual attraction. Humans emit a scent profile made up of pheromones, each of us having a combination of these natural chemicals that are as unique and diverse as our fingerprints. Pheromones are natural indicators that tell us who we should mate with. These chemicals are one of the main reasons we are more attracted to some individuals over others. Like us humans, cannabis plants have their own “scent fingerprints” that are just as unique, called terpene profiles. As more research is done on terpenes, we understand how profoundly these natural plant oils affect the high we feel when consuming cannabis. When it comes to sex, many experts believe that terpenes are the main decider of cannabis’s effects.

One leading contender for matchmaker terpene is limonene. It’s shown to cause energetic and stimulating effects, leading so many experts to recommend limonene to increase sex drive. Users commonly report their sensitivity to touch magnified after smoking high limonene strains, such as Banana OG and MAC. Strains high in the caryophyllene terpene, on the other hand, can dull the sense of touch, preventing full sexual pleasure. You might also want to avoid a sleepy terpene like myrcene, which would be better for post-baby-making as its effects can endanger reaching orgasm. Staying in by yourself tonight? Try some cannabis with the linalool terpene, known for its relaxing inward effects and ideal for solo sessions.

Cannabis and Sex in Women vs. Men

Thus far, the information gathered points to mostly positive effects when it comes to women, sex, and weed. In a 2019 study published by the International Society for Sexual Medicine, women had overwhelmingly benefited in the bedroom from marijuana use. When using cannabis before intimate encounters, women had increased sex drive, improved orgasm, wetter lubrication, minimized pain, and overall better lovemaking experiences. In fact, women who reported marijuana use before sex were more than twice as likely to report satisfying orgasms than women who didn’t use cannabis.

When it comes to men, sex, and weed, the findings are a bit more complicated. In a study done in the late ’70s, the subjects overwhelmingly male, found that regular cannabis users believed in increased sexual intensity and led to more powerful orgasms. However, information collected since then, from publications like The Journal on Sexual Medicine, is less assuring as marijuana has been linked to side effects like erectile dysfunction (ED). Additionally, studies have found that the proper metabolism of ED solutions such as Viagra can be prevented by marijuana.

It may be a wise choice for males to moderate their cannabis intake before sex for this reason and because many men report reaching orgasm too slowly when consuming weed before intimate experiences. While most modern studies point to these detriments, a study published in Human Reproduction actually found benefits more males. In the study, 662 men provided semen samples for a period over 17 years, and those who reported ever using cannabis had a significantly higher sperm count than those who never used marijuana. This finding led researchers to believe that there are indeed reproductive benefits to men who use cannabis in moderation. However, when higher doses are involved, there could be adverse effects.

One thing that is certain from what we know about the relationship between sex and smoking weed is that both men and women who use marijuana believe that cannabis leads to increased desire for a partner, increased sexual satisfaction & pleasure, and an enhanced sense of touch. In addition, both men and women who reported frequent cannabis use also reported more frequent sex than those who have never partaken in marijuana. It’s no wonder they say, “Couples that smoke together, stay together.”

Weed & Sex: the Bottom Line

When it comes to sex and weed, the most crucial factor is you and how your individual brain react with the terpenes and cannabinoids of cannabis. There are so many factors in marijuana that can change how you and your private parts function, that more studies are required for a better understanding.

You have to consider what you want from your sexual experience: will you be snuggling intimately or breaking out the whips and chains? Which cannabinoids and terpenes bring out the best in your specific sexual performance? Does smoking a joint or eating an edible work better to get you in the mood? With Valentine's Day right around the corner, we encourage everyone to do your own research and design your very own personalized cannabis solution to sex.

[thepermanentrainpress]

REVIEW: CONTACT FESTIVAL AT BC PLACE - DEC. 27TH AND 28TH, 2019

Contact Festival is one of the most successful annual festivals in Vancouver. Over the years, it’s moved from Rogers Arena to the larger BC Place and hosted some of the biggest electronic music acts in the world. “Raves” are no longer limited to underground clubs – today, DJs play for tens of thousands of people at stadiums and festivals.

It was a very long event. The doors opened at 5 with music on both stages beginning at 5:20, extending all the way to midnight with minimal breaks. Not everyone attends for the whole seven hours, of course – but even for one day, that’s much longer than a typical concert. You really have to prepare for a big evening, and it’s even more important to stay fueled and hydrated once inside! It’s a hot, draining, crowded function, and keeping energy is essential.

The entire stadium was part of the event. On the floor area was the main stage and dance floor, holding a massive crowd amongst stadium seats and a few tents. However, on the second floor level where restrooms and concession were outside the main event was the “FVDED stage,” hosting a smaller but still crowded mass of people. There was really no escape from the noise – you could hear the pounding bass from both stages anywhere in the building, and for a couple of blocks outside BC Place as well. The upstairs stage had a more upbeat, contemporary, bass-heavy style for most of the evening. The main area’s music tended to be slightly more chill, feeling less like a club and more like an actual event. Performers on the FVDED stage for Night 1 included Kompany, Graves, and G Jones. Although the stage and dance area were much smaller, there were still many lasers and pretty colours flashing for an immersive experience the whole time.

Any crowded event can be difficult to navigate, particularly one with such an intense energy and fanbase as Contact. I was impressed with the crowd: I moved around a lot both days and walking, excusing myself through the people, etc. was never an issue. I didn't witness or experience any aggressive or rude behaviour. I appreciate everyone – not just the audience, but especially the staff and security – who worked to keep the event safe, fun, and accessible. 

Contact is about more than just the artists: it’s an entire experience. People travel for this event and spend hours preparing their outfits, plans, and energy. Amongst the audience, there were lots of costumes, people adorned in glowing/flashing lights, and all sorts of vibrant colours. There were people dressed in Christmas costumes as elves and even Santa. Contact is a big party, and the clothing adds an immersive and distinct element. Every rave will have people dressing up, but only at somewhere like this do you see such a variety and number of stand-outs. Just walking around and taking in the audience visuals is a big part of the fun. 

EDM events are not like concerts. Obviously, the music isn’t being performed live by a band – it is mostly pre-recorded and sampled. Of course, the DJ does still perform – there’s a lot of improvisation in a set and control. It’s more than just pushing a button. Nevertheless, the focus is on the visuals and crowd energy more so than the music, due to its nature. A lot of the music is repetitive; it is mostly pulsing bass, and a lot of the stuff played is actually recorded by a different musician. It’s not something I have a lot of experience in, and thus it was very different from the shows I’m used to. 

On Night 1, the first act I caught on the main stage was Denver-based DJ Said The Sky. His sets are a combo of trap, future bass, and dubstep. All of the music on both nights was pretty intense, but this set was one of the more mellow of the fest. It was slightly ambient, with a mesmerizing/hypnotic effect. He brought a lot of energy to the performance, and lit up the room just as much as the later headliners. The visuals involved a lot of rainbow lasers and flowing clouds.

On afterwards was Dutch DJ San Holo, who continued the trap and future bass set themes of the evening. His visuals were extremely colourful, flooding the entire screen with neon, bright hues, and explosive patterns. He played guitar a lot on stage, adding a live element that really stood out amongst the popping giant patterns��a small figure holding an instrument, against a background of fiery shining flames. It was really cool to watch, and the visuals that personally stood out to me the most. The arena was equipped with pyrotechnic equipment, and San Holo repeatedly used giant sparks to create live explosions on stage – awe-inspiring to an audience now well into the night. It was like watching sparklers dance as a child, except the sparks are 30 feet tall.

Chicago DJ Kaskade was on at 9:15. He’s been a major EDM figure for almost 20 years, and really showed his experience that night. The visuals were distorted, colourful, and aesthetically pleasing. Images of nature like flowers and lightning, roads, and fire were dominant. There were also many subdued hues of Kaskade’s name and shadow in blue and pink. Naturally, there was also use of pyrotechnics – giant actual flames pumping on stage never failed to impress the crowd. This was deep house music, and Kaskade’s expertise means his music was some of the most recognizable of the era. There were many original hits (“Us” and “Atmosphere”), but also a lot of sampling of classic rock songs, unexpectedly. He sampled “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Welcome To The Jungle,” and even “Under The Bridge”—songs you don’t expect to hear at a rave. The audience sang along every time. Out of all the sets of the weekend, this was probably the most engaging in how the actual music seemed to connect to the people there. Most of the sets were about the live experience in the moment – this one seemed to emphasize the actual music best.

The final act and headliner was Major Lazer – fronted by major producer and DJ Diplo, also including a current lineup of Walshy Fire and Ape Drums. There was just so much energy throughout this set. Diplo tours all over the world and has been a part of several EDM groups, and he really brings his all to exciting a crowd. The visuals were many geometric patterns and multi-coloured images, projecting the artist’s name, the audience, and backup dancers. There were all sorts of lasers and images of cartoon drawings, like a DJ with a record or a wall of speakers. Of course, there was some pyro and lasers as well. The backup dancers were very in-tune and well-choreographed. They ran all around the stage area, climbing platforms, touching each other, and twerking in time. It’s not easy to engage that attention when there’s so much music and visuals literally banging around you – they were so good at what they did. I’ve seen backup dancers at rock concerts that weren’t as engaging. 

Major Lazer had the most engagement with the crowd of everyone I saw. There’s a lot of festival experience, and Diplo knows just how to keep people going and keep them motivated. There was never a dull moment – whether it was chants of “I say Major, you say Lazer! MAJOR!,” sampling the bass of “Seven Nation Army,” or reminding us it was the last Friday night of the entire decade. “I know right now that you’re going to have the best f***ing year in 2020!” to roars of applause. 

Day 2:

The FVDED stage included artists such as Wooli, Dabin, and Feed Me. The music ended slightly earlier at 10:00 instead of 10:30 like the night before, but the dance area and music was no less intense.

All the way from Australia was producer Fisher. His house set was engaging musically, but the visuals weren’t nearly as impressive as the other acts. A lot of it was repetitive patterns of his own silhouette or his DJ name mirrored, or just lasers bouncing with nothing on the screen. Some of them were more interesting, projections of shapes and patterns – things like spots, stripes, and fingerprints. They were nice to look at, but the sequences were very repetitive, so it just wasn’t that interesting after a few minutes. A lot of the music was sequestered by a high robotic voice saying “Let’s play it again!” before yet another bass drop. I guess maybe that applied to the visuals as well. It wasn’t a bad set, it just really wasn’t as unique or fun as the others. There were a bit of pyrotechnics near the end for when he played “Losing It,” but nothing very memorable. 

Our own Canadian talent Rezz came next, and her entire set was my highlight of the festival. I wasn’t familiar with her at all before, but heard she puts on an amazing show, and she definitely did not disappoint. At only 24 years old, she’s got two studio albums and is a prominent addition to any festival. She emerged to the ever-present giant flames and blasted the fire many times throughout, and it was just… so cool. Her visuals were themed and very in-tune with the set, instead of seeming almost random like the others. There was a lot of hellfire and church-type imagery, and an animated avatar in goggles (clearly supposed to be Rezz, who was wearing the same goggles on stage) burning things and running. Towards the end were gorgeous cosmic galaxy projections, something I’m surprised not many other DJs incorporated. There was also a disturbing tentacled monster and off-putting geometric patterns, near Lovecraftian imagery. 

A computerized, booming, commanding voice echoed a narrative periodically throughout the set, telling the audience to think about their feelings, to let it all go, and to “relax” – right before another bass drop. It held everyone’s attention and it was a really interesting, unique set. I would love to see her perform again at another fest or headlining show. She was the most interesting and probably the best act of the night – putting male DJs twice her age with many more years of experience to shame!

Closing the fest was one of the biggest DJs in the world, and my main reason for wanting to attend – Tiësto! With a two decade career, he’s performed all over the world and is very prominent in the live EDM scene. I saw him at Pemberton Festival a few years ago and it was amazing, so I was really looking forward to what was coming. Sadly, he was no Rezz. I’m not sure what was different, if it was the indoor setting or the music he chose, but it was just not that fun visually or audibly. There’s energy, and there’s getting the crowd moving, but it never overly impressed. The visuals were pretty forgettable – flashing lights, golden lasers, a lot of flashing of the act’s name in case we forgot who he was. There were animated Minecraft-like sprites when he played “Jackie Chan” (with Dzeko, Preme, and Post Malone rapping) but they were ugly and not very colourful. He sampled other EDM classics like “Titanium” and “Wake Me Up.” There wasn’t even much pyro. 

For a closer and such a respected DJ, I really wanted something more. I don’t know his inner mind, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this set was forgoing anything awe-inspiring for some phoned-in, basic heavy sets and even more basic visuals. When you’re Tiësto, people will come no matter what (I know I did) and I guess you can relax. The man is 50 years old. Not every set can be the best. Everyone still had fun and the music was still nice, and in the end, that is what’s most important… I guess.

Contact is a full experience. It’s unique in its size and scope as a festival, and is one of the largest annual concerts and annual EDM events in the area. It is extremely intense in all aspects and definitely not for everyone. I can recommend it, but only if you know exactly what you’re getting into and if you like this style of music. I’m sure I’m not the only one who was overwhelmed and exhausted afterwards. It’s a fun event… but it’s a lot.

Written by: Cazzy Lewchuk

[domhovasse]

Bitches in the Balkans.

The Balkans has been a region of the world that’s been on my radar for a while now. It’s not a region of Europe thats not quite as popular amongst tourists, is therefore less expensive that most other regions in Europe, and has warm weather & beaches, so when I found out that Gaby and Timnit could join me or some travelling, I KNEW this was where we would go. 

After arriving in Belgrade around noon on Saturday, I checked into my hostel and spent the afternoon at the Yugoslavia museum and then wandering around a little, before my friends arrived at 7pm. We just missed a period of non-stop rain so the streets were still quite flooded and it was quite chilly out. That evening we did some bar hopping, and ended off the night at various bars that float along the river, called Splavs. The folllowing day, we took part in a walking tour, learned about the history of Yugoslavia, the relationship between Serbia and Kosovo. The tour took us through most of the historic city center, and ended at the fortress overlooking the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. After lunch we spent some time napping in a park, before visiting the Nikola Tesla Museum and eventually eating the most delicious and coupious amount of food possibly that I’ve ever had in my life.

That night, we made our way to Sarajevo, capital city of Bosnia & Herzegovina, which was probably the most eye opening part of the trip. It was quite somber walking through the Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide and learning about the city’s dark & recent history, then going on a walking tour and being able to actually see physical damage (bullet holes) that was done to a lot of the buildings, which have not been repaired yet due to finances and legal reasons. We got hit with quite a bit of rain the Sarajevo, so we often took some breaks for Bosnian Coffee or a glass of wine at a sky bar. We also made a visit to the Tunnel of Hope (sort of like the Cuchi Tunnels in Saigon) that we’re used during the war for protection and safe transportation of goods. We met the most wonderful people in Sarajevo, notably an elderly man who let us into a museum 30 minutes after closing, (after having walked 15 minutes in the pouring rain), and the owner & employee of a bar we’d found, who spent hours talking to us after closing, telling us about their lives and their country, and offering us a round of drinks.

Mostar was quite touristy, (mostly Chinese tourist on day trips from Croatia), but we made sure to avoid the city center / Bazaar during peak hours. We visited a beautiful cemetery overlooking the city, and took a taxi to Blagaj, an old Muslim dervish house that sits on a cliff and river, where we got completely rained on. In the evening we partook in a walking tour, where we learned about the conflict/separation between the Bosnians and Croats in the city of Mostar. There are 2 of everything : school, hospital, church, mosque, one on each side of the divide. There is only 1 school right on the separation line / ’no man’s land’ where you can find a mix of Bosnians and Serbs, and where all classes are mixed together except for language and history. Mostar was definitely the city where there were the most abandoned/damaged buildings remaining from the war.

What touched us the most about Bosnia was its people and their incredible hospitality & openness, despite their gruesome past.  

The middle chunk of our trip was spent in Croatia & Montenegro, where we got very little sleep, but lots of sun!! After a few hours in Split, grabbing lunch and wandering around the old town and pier, we boarded our ferry to the island of Hvar. Hvar was a really good time - we met a bunch of people, ate some good food and spent lots of time on the beach, hanging out at beach bars and dancing our butts off.

On top of our lack of sleep and terrible hangovers, it was excruciatingly hot in Dubrovnik and very difficult to find shade, so after our respective walking tours in the morning (my friends did the Game of Thrones tour while I just did a regular tour), we spent the rest of the day trying to stay indoors, and eventually took a taxi to this amazing lookout point at the top of the mountain before heading to the bus station to kill time before our bus to Montenegro.

Kotor was one of my favourites. Not only is it breathtakingly beautiful, but we had a really good hostel experience and were so close to extending our stay an extra night! We spent our day wandering the old town, then hopping on a boat which brought us to the picturesque town of Perast and the beautiful island In the middle of the Bay, called Our Lady of the Rocks. Around sundown, Timnit and I ventured up to the fortress for an incredible view of the bay. It was definitely one of the most beautiful views I have ever seen! 

Budva was super chill, since there’s not much to do besides the beach. It kind of felt like a Cancun of the Balkans - very built up city with resorts, casinos and lots of partying. I ended up wandering around the old town on my own for a while because Timnit and Gaby both had work to do on their computers. I walked the city walls and visited the citadel overlooking the water, and then went to the beach with Gaby for a bit before walking along the beach and grabbing diner all together. On our last morning in Montenegro, I made the girls wake up at 5am to squeeze in a visit to Mount Lovcen before making our long journey to Prizren, Kosovo. We got there an hour before it opened (of course none of us thought to look at the opening times ahead of time), but the lovely man running the gate let us in early because there were quite a few people who were waiting there with us. We climbed the 461 steps to the Mausoleum of a famous Serbian/Montenegrin poet and philosopher, behind the mausoleum was a path that led onto a lookout point. Along the way, I lost both of my friends to their fear of heights, and honestly they really missed out cause it was incredible! We got our taxi to drop us off at the bus station in Budva, and then killed some tiime before beginning our long journey to Kosovo.

The last 4 days of my trip were really hot, so we ended up spending alot of time indoors. Gaby and Timnit were both working during our trip so we spent a few hours every day in a cafe, escaping the heat and being productive. Kosovo was really interesting! We spent 1 day in Prizren, 'the cultural capital', and a day in Pristina, the capital city with a population of 210,000, the average age being 25. (65% of the whole country's population is under the age of 35). There’s not a ton to do tourism-wise so we spent a lot of time sitting in cafes and bars, and in Pristina, the capital city, we decided to do a walking tour to get an overview of the city and learn a bit about its history. I’ll never forget getting chased around by a stray dog for 30 minutes, and all the locals laughing at the fact that we were so freaked out.

Overall, I was really impressed with how many western-influenced restaurants/bars there were and how western a lot of the people were dressed. Kosovars are a little obsessed with America, so most speak pretty good English, and there's even a huge statue of Bill Clinton in Pristina. He's considered a hero because he played a huge part in their liberation 20 years ago. During our trip we'd only met one person (right at the end of our trip) who had plans on going to Kosovo, so it was cool to be one of the few to experience this bit of unchartered territory.

From Pristina, we took a short bus ride across the border to the capital city of Macedonia, Skopje. We didn't originally have plans to make it to Macedonia, but the cheapest flights home (by a landslide) were from Skopje, so we decided to spend some time there before flying home. After arriving in the evening and checking into our hostel, we headed to a restaurant which had been recommended to us by a hostel worker. Thank God he recommended it because it we had some of the best food ever, followed by one of the best nights of the entire trip. Long story short, the restaurant had live music and essentially turned into a bar full of locals, singing and dancing, the servers offered us free shots, which essentially turned into bottom-less free shots, and by the end of the night, we were riding around the streets of Skopje in a convertible with a bunch of locals, blasting music and singing at the top of our lungs. We spent most of the next day on a walking tour, then eating, drinking beers and hanging out with some solo travellers we had met on our walking tour. That night, we had a big dinner all together in a fancy restaurant, where we all treated ourselves to the most delicious 10€ steaks, then went to a Karaoke bar before saying goodbye to Gaby and Timnit. They both had very early morning flights that night/morning, and mine wasn't until 6pm, so I spent my last day with one of our new friends, taking a cable car to the top of Vodno mountain, and then visiting a museum before heading to the airport in the late afternoon. 

My journey home was extremely long because my flight was 1 hour and 15 minutes delayed, and then I had to take an hour and a half bus ride to Paris from Beauvais airport, but hey I guess that's what I get for a 15€ flight!  

I’m feeling really appreciative to not only have the opportunity to travel, but also to be able to do it with my friends who I've known for over 17 years! We had so much fun together laughing and learning, just like we did together in elementary school.