#the one thing i can reckon was a bit defensive was the “do not put words into my mouth [about the dev]” part which i'd consider fair cos

[meirimerens]

i hate that you always have to act defensive whenever you have to explain the personal reasons for not doing something the anons here suggest you...

if you hate that i'm "act[ing] defensive" you're misreading me and it's not my problem. always assume stubbornness instead of defensiveness because i'm an aries and that is what it is 95% of the time. if you hate that i "always have to act defensive whenever [...]", implying both a recurrence in being suggested and in being defensive, you're misreading something like 4 or 5 different people (i am very rarely suggested stuff, i am even more rarely anything that can be read as defensive about the suggestion, and the anon who brought up funger to my blog earlier this month didn't suggest anything, they had assumed i either played the game already or had plans to play it) and it's not my problem. and if you hate that i have to explain personal reasons*/believe i shouldn't have to it's not your problem and as i don't care about it don't you worry about it and rest your cutiepie head back on your pillow as well as disregard both options above.

also and potentially unrelated to you the more anyone gives me grief about either not playing it Or talking about not playing it when people keep bringing it up it the more i will start to dislike what i still like of it [namely the character designs + lore + magic system]. everybody out of my inbox with this‼️ but if you see me reblogging d'arce or enki art mind your business

*a relatively shallow preference that most people not into horror and many who are have, that says very little about me and as such does not feel particularly intimate to reveal

[bokutosmochi]

boyfriend ushijima wakatoshi headcannons

what's it? fluff allergen warning/s? mentions of divorce sugar level? 1k (can you tell that i love him??) regulars? @hanayanetwork​ @tahonet​ @tokyometronetwork​

bon appetit!

♧ loves, loves, loves kissing his partner's hand. it had nothing to do with it being gentlemanly - though he is one - he simply loved the feeling of his partner's smaller hand in his, and the warm skin of their knuckle on his lips.

♧ ushijima isn't a very protective boyfriend. it wasn't because he didn't care about his partner or anything like that, rather he knew they were capable of defending themself and he trusted them. but of course, if he sees someone push them a bit too hard, he'll be by their side in a split second, staring down at the person AND REALLY, THAT'S ENOUGH FOR SAID PERSON TO GO RUNNING OFF IN THE OTHER DIRECTION.

♧ god, he really enjoys being the little spoon. something about the love of his life surrounding him makes him feel soft inside. he also doesn't keep this from the team. he doesn't tell them as he feels no need to and they don't ask about it in the first place, but once they find out and tease him about it, he just quirks an eyebrow and asks them what's not to enjoy.

♧ probably curious about why his partner likes putting on makeup (if they do). not the type of boyfriend, or man in general, to look down on a person or judge them for putting it on, but he's definitely a bit confused because to him, his partner's already plenty beautiful, why would they want to change how they look? he doesn't really understand it's an art and form of self expression until they explain it to him. then he understands.

♧ a really good dancer. he's got the rhythm and the grace needed for the job. doesn't really enjoy it that much though, but he's most likely asked his partner to dance with him once or twice on a stormy evening with dinner in the oven.

♧ is so so gentle with his partner. in the court, he's a force to be reckoned with, pure brute force being poured into every single one of his spikes and even to his own teammates who offer him a high five, somewhere between not being too familiar with the friendly gesture and being too pumped up, he's always smacked his hand against their a bit too hard, but with his partner, he holds them like the most precious, fragile thing in the world, with the utmost care. they can feel the love when he takes their face in his large hands uncharacteristically gently and fondly kisses their lips.

♧ he is very realistic when it comes to his romantic relationships. perhaps it's because he came from divorced parents, maybe not. he's not really sure and he doesn't really think about it much as he does not believe it to be a bad trait. although he certainly doesn't want it, he knows there's always a possibility of him and his partner splitting up. he doesn't bring up the topic randomly, but when it does come up, he's not quick to be defensive and shut it down immediately.

♧ when he decides to court someone, he is courting them. he's not gonna half-ass it because if he does take that step with them, there is a reason as to why. he has very high standards you see, so even if it meant he'd court someone for a whole year, so long as they reciprocated his feelings and are only letting him do so for a long time to know if he's serious - which he is - he'd court them for a year if he had to. he doesn't care, someone who ticks the many boxes he had is worth it.

♧ fucking purred the first time his partner ran their hands through his hair while watching tv. sure, he's had back pats before, tendo was also fond of ruffling up the professional volleyball player's hair every time they crossed paths in their dorm room, but that was the first time he got his hair played with for an extended amount of time and it just felt so euphoric to him. he really couldn't help it, his body did it on its own.

♧ his partner shouldn't really ask him to teach them how to play volleyball -- he's not very good at it. he's not good with words in general and he's well aware of that so instead, he tries to teach by doing, only his spikes are too strong for a newbie and when he tries to weaken them so his partner will be able to receive it, there's basically no momentum at all which also makes it incredibly difficult for a beginner. A for effort though, because wakatoshi-kun really tried.

♧ his love language is acts of service. during weekdays where both him and his partner have a day off, he's the one to turn off their alarm that usually wakes them up at a way-too-early five thirty am. or when he knows they've had a rough couple of days, he'll surprise them with a breakfast in bed featuring their favorite breakfast items. he doesn't verbalize his feelings about his partner much, but actions speak louder than words, no?

♧ he's very good at remembering the small details about his partner and always listens to them whenever they ramble about something, even if he has no idea what it is about.

♧ has to do things slowly with his partner. if they move too fast, he just kinda freezes up and is turned off of the relationship.

♧ he also doesn't chase anyone. he's following his dreams of being the best volleyball player he can be, he doesn't have time for that. ALSO, HE CAN'T TELL IF THEY WANT HIM TO CHASE THEM OR IF THEY ACTUALLY WANT HIM TO LEAVE THEM ALONE

♧ other people think seeing ushijima smiling is a once in a lifetime opportunity, but not his partner. while he may not be wearing a gigantic grin, whenever he's with them, both ends of his lips are slightly upturned.

i get: reblog

you get: green hair dye

[tsuchinokoroyale]

Genuinely nonjudgmental ask: Does having unprotected sex ever make you nervous? Have you ever had an STI? I just opened up my relationship with my boyfriend, so I immediately got on PrEP. I still have been using condoms when I’m fucking with anyone that’s not my partner, but I’ve gotten skeptical responses from every guy when I bring up wearing them. I just want to protect myself and my bf from other STIs. I’m considering lying and saying that I’m not on PrEP just to get less pushback. Again, this is not a judgmental ask. I’ve just been out of the game for years, and it seems like the rules have changed!

There are 3 things I’ve always used to protect myself against STI’s:

1. Trust in your fellow man

2. DDF? Tested?

3. The Vibe Check

The first two are basically wet tissue paper level defense, but it’s basically the idea that someone who has the symptoms of an STD/knows they have one wouldn’t willingly go out and spread it. But some STI’s are communicable before they are detectable or symptomatic so they’re honestly weaker than wet tissue it’s more like semi-permeable membrane levels of protection.

I bank the hardest on the last one, which does employ a little bit of judgement but it’s my health so I do what I want to. I prefer to have sex with people that are selective with their partners, people that either don’t sleep around much because they have a primary partner or because they prefer fwb situations. Of note, its important that they mention that they still get tested frequently.

Most one night stands I have I’ll use protection unless they pass the vibe check so hard that my bottom instincts override my better senses and I need their DNA inside me.

Which leads me to

“The Backseat Sloppy Incident”

I had a fwb situation at one point with a friend who had recently become single. He hadn’t topped anyone since he broke up with his boyfriend, it’s been a few months, he didn’t really like hook ups, and of course he made me laugh and had a very shapely shape during sweatpants season. We hung out one night and I very coolly said “hey why aren’t we having sex with each other” and he was like “huh good point” and then we fixed that.

And then it suddenly started to burn when he peed.

We both freaked out and got tested. It was Gonorrhea. We both got our shots in the butt, or really he got two shots in his butt and I got ONE MASSIVE SHOT THAT HURT LIKE ALL HELL and when that was done I was back to taking his loads like I was a laundry machine.

But there was still the question of: How did he get it ?

See I tested negative for gonorrhea. I had em swab everything and test for everything but only he came back positive. I was completely clean.

We puzzled over this many a time because the only time he did anything was when he picked up a Tinder date from the train station who gave him head in the backseat of his car as thanks. He’d told me this had happened as well, to which I said “Damn instead of saying thank you I’m just gonna start giving backseat sloppy from now on”

But that had happened like a month prior. STIs can have a rather lengthy incubation period but a month is pretty long. And I won’t have any character assassination of this boy, I trust him with my life and he honestly still owns this hole if he didn’t live so far away but anyways the point is you truly just never know.

I haven’t had an STI as of yet, but I’m sure that’s mostly just luck. I’ve put myself in seedy situations and come out clean, and the closest I’ve come to catching an STI was a situation where I thought for sure it wouldn’t be an issue. Keep watch over your body, take ya meds, get tested frequently, and always use a condom unless you’re either 100% sure you don’t need one or you’re ready to reckon with any consequences that come your way. Anyone that gets pissy about you using condoms is being a brat who doesn’t respect your health boundaries. And what do we say to sleeping with people who don’t respect your boundaries?

🙅‍♂️🙅‍♂️🙅‍♂️

[vampsquerade]

Could you do one where ghost finds a male reader smoking and asks for one then they just talk for a bit?

yes omg i would love to write this for you. i’m gonna make it really angsty but i swear it’s gonna have a good ending! it’s also pretty out of character for the way he is but i feel like this just would’ve been a nice moment

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ghost x Male!Reader: A Smoke Together, Just For Tonight

Trigger Warnings: angst, comfort/hurt, smoking (tobacco), emotional distress, comforting, out of character Ghost (emotionally), slight depressed humor

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the energy in the room after hearing Hasan needed to be let go, you silently make your way out and a bit of ways away from the safehouse. The only thing you brought along with you was your knife, a pack of cigarettes, and a lighter. “I should probably stop doing this shit so young…” you mumble before promptly sticking the cigarette in your mouth. You cover the end with one hand, using the other to flick your light to ignite it. Taking in a brief inhale of the smoke, you close the top of your lighter and put it in your pocket. You then exhale and spit on the ground, feeling a bit more relaxed now that something’s distracting you.

Looking at the scenery surrounding the safehouse, you sigh. It was such a nice night; there was a gentle breeze, the sky was clear, and the stars shone brightly. You knew what you were signing up for when you joined the 141, but you just hoped things would slow down at least a little bit. Guard completely down, you slump your shoulders and lean against the tree you were standing next to. You take another slow drag of your cigarette, taking it out from between your lips to spit once again. Upon exhaling, you hear the snap of something to your left and swiftly take out your knife in defense while still holding your cigarette. Heart rate slightly accelerated due to the panic and stress of getting your guard back up, you’re slightly annoyed once you see it was Simon that interrupted your smoke break.

“Don’t you know better than to sneak up on a guy that’s got an extensive military background?” you ask, putting your knife back in your pocket. “Don’t reckon I see someone with that title other than myself right now. Can I have a cig and smoke out here with you?” Simon asks, mask brought up to the bridge of his nose. Quirking a brow, you just nod and take your pack of cigarettes out again. Accompanied with it was your lighter, and as you were taking the cigarette out of the box, Simon spoke up.

“Put it between my lips as well, yeah? I’ll cover it so it doesn’t go out.”

Becoming slightly flustered at this request, you did as you were told. Simon covered your lighter at the cigarette end and you successfully lit it. You watch as he takes his first drag, removing the cigarette to exhale the smoke and spitting on the ground. “Bloody hell…I quite honestly forgot how terrible these are.” he joked. Chuckling softly, you just shake your head and put your lighter away. You take another drag of your cigarette, holding it in your mouth for a bit before exhaling some O’s. “How’d you do that?” Simon asks, watching you. “It’s easy, just gotta do this motion with your mouth,” you say then proceed to make the motions with your own.

Simon looks amazed and tries it out himself, only to slightly choke on the smoke. He begins coughing, and you could’ve sworn some laughs were mixed in there as you pat his back. “Holy fuck, don’t choke yourself doing it. Guess I forgot to leave that one out.” you joke as you help him recuperate. “Sorry. I- hah…thought a master of that would’ve at least warned about it…” Simon sneers. You find yourself choking on your own cigarette, the both of you erupting in laughter between dry coughs. “I reckon I haven’t had this much fun in quite a long time. I thought I was somehow immune to it after what I went through.” Simon said breathlessly. Your smile and laughter slowly faded, lips slightly agape as you stared at him in silence. “Anything I should know about so I don’t make a mistake over it and get my fucking ass kicked?” you ask.

Simon’s face grows somber as he takes a long drag of his cigarette. “You can tell me, you know…” you say. “Just don’t end up like me by the time you’re my age. There’ll be a lot of shit you’ll feel sorry about yourself for.” he says, exhaling. You put a hand on his shoulder, gently squeezing it. “If it makes you feel any better, you’ve become the strongest you could ever be. You defend the lives of people who are unable to protect themselves. We all lose a lot in our lives, it’s normal; but that definitely isn’t an excuse to not care for yourself because it’s what you lacked.” you say. Simon chuckles, taking another drag. “Since when did you become the 141’s therapist, eh?” he jokes bitterly as he exhales. “Since I decided I wanted to fix myself and everyone. Don’t leave yourself out of what you deserve.” you say.

He spits out some of the built up tobacco in his mouth before rubbing his eyes. “I reckon you've got a point, I’ll admit. It’s just difficult.” he says softly. “I know, but we all care about you here. We’re a family and we do not leave each other behind.” you reassure. “Y/N?” Simon asks. “Yes, Simon?” you reciprocate. “Promise you’re not lying to me. I’ll kick your teeth in, corporal.” he jokes darkly. Laughing softly, you punch his shoulder before bringing him in for a side embrace. “Aw, well I appreciate you too, lieutenant. But I promise, I’ll never abandon or leave your side.” you reassure. “Good. Thanks for at least being the semblance of a new family for me.” Simon thanks. “No problem.” you say.

The two of you then stay outside for a while longer, eventually smoking your entire cigarettes and putting them out. You spend a bit more time stargazing, enjoying each other’s company after such a moment of vulnerability. “Quite a nice night, eh? Feels fresh and clear.” you chime. “I suppose you’re right. You like to stargaze a lot?” Simon asks. “From time to time. I just like to appreciate the scenery whenever I can.” you say Simon nods, looking down at you. You look back at him, staring into his eyes. “You’re a good man, Y/N. Don’t change that.” he compliments. You smile and give him a nod and a wink, “I don’t plan on it, Simon.” you say confidently. Simon gives you a nod, bringing his mask back down over his face. The air feels much lighter now, and you could tell that that small period of gloom has effectively passed now.

You were now close to Simon “Ghost” Riley, the most intimidating person you’ve ever met.

[nirmalneaners]

First meeting AU GHOSTSOAP

When Price said he had someone in mind, this isn't exactly what Simon was picturing. The blokes got a mohawk, for Christ's sake. He looks up at Price as this little twat comes prancing up to them. Price gives him a small nod. Trust me, it says. He hasn't really got a choice, he thinks.

"Simon, this is John MacTavish, but everyone calls him Soap," he says, patting John on the back fondly. He's pretty, was Simon's first thought, annoyingly. He's not exactly soft-looking, but Simon is intrigued by how many years of service he has done. He doesn't exactly strike him as a rule follower. He seems the type the drill sergeant would know personally.

"The hell kind of name is Soap?" he asks, unimpressed.

"The name next to yours on the tenancy agreement, if ye a little sweeter, darlin'," he says, winking. Simon frowns. Price has always liked a quick mouth to challenge him; it's no wonder why he likes Johnny. He's a cocky bastard; he can tell already. Typical bloody Scotts, that is.

"Sugar doesn't just fall from the cane," he says.

Soap laughs loud and bright, and it drowns out the chatter of the hall. He smiles with his whole face—an expressive sort, he decides. Nice teeth, too. A little too nice, like maybe he gets them whitened or uses those fancy toothpastes. He elbows Price and says, "Ye didn't tell me old Riley was a jokester, ye old sod."

Price snorts, "That was a joke?"

"A shite one, but ye are English," he shrugs. "I Cannae be expecting first class."

"I'm already regretting introducing you two," he sighs, but his lips are twitching. He pats Simon on the shoulder as he leaves them and says, "I'm off before my own humour is compromised. The meeting starts in 5, boys."

Simon grits his teeth. He's not in a great mood today. He doesn't like these meetings, and he's in pain. He hasn't got a choice about coming, though; after all, he can't get himself anywhere with a broken arm, and he can't stay back at Prices on his own.

"The wheels permanent, then?" Soap asks. Simon looks up at him, shocked. Not many people ask about the wheelchair and even fewer acknowledge it. Brazen little basterd he is, indeed. Soap isn't looking at him, and Simon doesn't know if he's not looking on purpose, but he finds he appreciates it either way.

"No," he says, a little bit defensively. He watches Soap, and he doesn't really know why, but he adds, "Knee got smashed up, so I had surgery to put it back together, but now I'm wishing I just let them cut the bloody thing off when they wanted to and be done with it. Stuck in this chair for another few months or so."

Soap nods and simply says, "Shite, that."

He's not actually told anyone that before, and he doesn't know why he told him of all people. He takes a deep breath. It doesn't feel good, per se. But he feels lighter. He watches with a grimace as Price starts rallying people to sit in the circle, and he knows it won't be long until he's wheeled closer. Even if he's stubborn enough not to talk, Price likes him at least somewhat involved.

"Ye know, ye don't really strike me as a chatty Cathy, Si." Soap says, and Simon scoffs meanly. Soap crouches down a little and gets close—real close. He has a glint in his eyes, and Simon must be desperate because he finds himself intrigued. This bloke is the closest he's come to a touch of danger since the field. "Do ye reckon Price would notice if we fucked off to the pub down the road for a bit? Promise to get ye back to ye Daddy at a reasonable hour,"

He hasn't had a pint in so long. He's not meant to, considering his medication, and he hasn't left Prices sight since he came out of hospital some months ago. He's been doing so much lately that he hasn't wanted to do, and as he looks at Soap, he goes a little bit feral at the sight of the freedom he offers.

He looks over at Price. He's talking to someone. Busy, as usual. He answers without giving himself a moment to properly think it through. "No, I reckon not."

"Well, Hot Wheels, let's get out of here before the old boy slaps our wrists," he grins.

Simon has to suppress his own as he's wheeled out of the hall. Perhaps the Scottish basterd isn't so bad after all.

"Drinks are on you though, Johnny. Daddy has all the money." 

Soap makes a noise as they head out down the ramp. It sounds conflicted. "Johnny?"

He smiles to himself. "Problem?"

There's a long pause before he finally snorts. "Nae, nae. But if I hear anyone else say that name tonight I'll be usin' ye to run 'em over. Deal?"

"Deal."

-------

[monkiebois]

Aight it's been a long hit minute since I sent ya anything (hi hello bye the bye)

Top five favorite facts/bits of lore/ HCs (can be yours or others head canons) of nezha 😁

hihihiiiiiii

ooooh top five facts/bits of lore/ HCs about Nezha. this is gonna be fun~

Powers

youd never guess. but when i first watched through LMK i didnt care for Nezha. not rlly. I always thought he was cool and had a nice design but I didnt really care much for him. But i ALWAYS thought his powers and abilitys were so cool. maybe its my bias for pink characters and powers (i also have a bias for blue) but when i needed a character to do some fighting in my fic i snatched Nezha. and ever since i started writing him i couldnt stop. So honestly i gotta put his cool lookin powers as #1 since its what initially hooked me onto his character. both canon and other power HC's i have.

2. His personality PSA: Im not saying any of this is canon. these are my headcanons.

I love canon Nezha dont get me wrong, but im a little biased to my headcanons. well- more then a little XP. I ADORE sassy traumatized fucked up little guys. LMK Nezha is already sassy as hell, as he should be. he's soooooo traumatized if you read into his mythology. and he's also so POWERFUL.

it's just something about characters who are mainly known for being powerful and unstoppable. a force to be reckoned with. but eventually it's revealed this 'unstopable persona' is actually just a mask they've built. They are no doubt very powerful. but one of the reasons people are so scared of them is bc they've built the reputation so no one hurts them anymore. Nearly always on the defensive and holding their emotions inside so thy don't get hurt anymore. But like we saw in the s3 special with MK can still be gentle and kind.

not only that, but needs that kind of kindness and acceptance in his life. Needs a family that will accept all aspects of him. The good and the bad.

TS Nezha is a hurt kid. Traumatized and honestly kinda lonely. Because there's very few people that know the real him. Even if he trusts other people, there's no guarantee that they will accept the real him without the mask he's created. Kin moment.

that and the fact its very easy to shove him into a found family.

also Autism representation in my HC's. I'm Autistic, and some of his traits are just me projecting my Autism onto him.

3. His white hair.

My favorite lore bit about Nezha is not something a lot of people know about him. In the translation of Investiture of the Gods I own it says he was born with white hair.

Chapter 12 - The birth of Nezha

However, as Yin had a strange dream one night, she suddenly gave birth to this strange child the following morning. With maidens rushing about saying that a demon was present in Yin's chambers, Li Jing immediately rushed forth into her room and cleaved in two a strange fleshy ball that rolled to and fro across the floor. Within the ball emerged a small young child with hair as white as snow with a gleaming golden bracelet on his right wrist.

I have implemented this in my Tangled Star AU but how is spoilers >:3

all im saying is TSNezha and TSMac have something in common~ but thats already saying too much >:3

4. His Design Theres a reason ive only minorly changed his design in my headcanons. Overall i ADORE it. Again im probably biased because of all the pink but I love characters like him. He's got some traditionaly feminine design choices. at least traditionally in the west (Pink, Long hair, the bottom of his armor looks like a skirt). It's very gender. and he's just cute overall. his design is so much fun to draw and my version is even more fun.

Honestly. The guys got my gender. Masc, but confident in wearing some feminine things. He just seems like the kind of guy who'd like wearing dresses and keeping his hair long, but still masc nonetheless. Breaking gender norms as he should.

5. His dynamics with other characters.

I love writing him interacting with other characters. He just clashes so well with the other characters when i write him in my AU's. both positively and negatively. I love writing him in angst, i love writing him in fluff. I just. love putting this guy into situations XD.

his relationship with his found family in tangled star is SO MUCH FUN to write. traumatized little guy who trusts no one but the people he's closest with. and even they are still getting him to open up.

thats...honestly the best way i can describe my top five things about nezha. its hard to explain why i like him and i was just tempted to write

blorbo

blorbo

blorbo

blorbo

blorbo.

So be happy you got that much out of me. sorry it got so long but once i start ranting i cant stop. XD

[decepti-thots]

Character Ask: Brainstorm

one aspect about them i love: I love how it sneaks up on you that so, so much of what Brainstorm does is motivated by his feelings about other people. He holds everyone at arms' length and cultivates an image of not caring about other people, and then at the exact same time he makes all his biggest decisions based on whoever he cares about deep down. Everything he does following Quark's death is for Quark, until it's actually for Chromedome, except then it turns out Chromedome was as much a catalyst for him to just... start thinking about everyone else the war fucked over. It's that bit where Nautica is so pissed at him until she realises he was, without any fuss, going to erase himself from existence to stop the war, and didn't even bring it up in his own defense. That's the trick to his character.

one aspect i wish more people understood about them: Brainstorm's initial draw to Perceptor is that it mirrors his relationship with Quark. What I mean by this is: Brainstorm doesn't really expect to actually achieve much there. We learn later that Brainstorm knew very well that his feelings towards Quark were unrequited. There's a turning point where Perceptor's impression of Brainstorm changes, and it's when Perceptor puts two and two together and realises what Brainstorm's actions in EC were actually trying to achieve; that he isn't just an arrogant asshole who doesn't care. So, any attempt to elaborate on that relationship needs to reckon, IMO, with the fact that it's a change to the status quo that Brainstorm had fully accepted, one in which he poked at Perceptor constantly and never risked actually getting anywhere with it. I've never seen a fic with those two as a pairing that really managed to nail that down for me, tbh! You need that sense of Brainstorm being like. Wait. Shit. What do I do now I have his respect, though. Because Brainstorm has no model for that.

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have about this character: Brainstorm doesn't actually believe that the peace will last. He's fully convinced that war will, at some point, break out again. It's difficult for him to even imagine peace ever holding- he literally was born into the war, and he's seen the worst of both sides in his role as a double agent, and how desperate people are in both corners to keep it going until the other side is fully obliterated. He originally figured that when he got Quark to safety they would run off somewhere neutral and just ignore Cybertron, and that would be fine, because by that point the war would have started up again anyway.

one character i love seeing them interact with: Nautica! I love their friendship. I love that it's this deeply sincere relationship that is the first one he's ever had that isn't touched with some kind of trauma or violence. One thing I think about it is that this is the first time he's interacting with someone about his passions who doesn't see it as something that is part and parcel with the war- he's never had a peer before who has any perspective on what he can do in that regard which doesn't, at some point, loop back around to its usefulness in doing something destructive. IDK, that's just so... nice to me. He needs to have a friend like that.

one character i wish they would interact with/interact with more: I think him and Tailgate would be a riot actually. They're both so full of shit and insecure in parallel ways and prone to being so intense. And I think they would be funny! I think they would egg each other onto TERRIBLE ideas and crack wise the whole time and it would be deeply entertaining. They should blow some shit up together and Tailgate should try to offer to be Brainstorm's wingman despite being phenomenally unqualified.

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have that involve them and one other character: Brainstorm has privately apologised to Rewind (2.0) for his role in his death. He doesn't feel guilty about a lot, and tbh he probably tried pretty hard to persuade himself he didn't need to. But. Then Rewind thanked him for keeping Chromedome alive when Rewind was gone, and he felt like such a fucking asshole. Because it was a little bit his fault along with the others. (Rewind accepted the apology and also said that if he ever got Chromedome involved in anything like that ever again, Rewind would physically rip his head off.)

[justfangirlstuffs]

Non-Expendable

You're not the greatest at socialization. So it never fails to baffle you when the king of social skills comes to pay you a visit.

You x Sun (Agent Dawn)

Soon. Soon it would be ready. Your next great creation. Oh, how you loved working in the labs. The agency had been kind enough to give you plenty of material to work with, and you had your own little nook to retreat into if you needed to take a break from people. You didn't hate people. Not really, just... they could be a lot sometimes. Or, sure, you were more than capable of carrying a conversation or listening to people go on about whatever. But sometimes, you just needed to be alone with your music playlist.

Today you were intensely focused on writing up a report, when your peripheral vision caught sight of movement and you jumped, grabbing your taser from off the desk.

“Whoa! I surrender!” A friendly voice said, as two hands were raised in the air.

You breathed a sigh of relief, grabbing at your chest. “Agent Dawn, I told you not to sneak up on me. I'm gonna put BELLS on you.”

Dawn gave a small chuckle, hands still playfully raised in defeat. “Apologies, a force of habit. You know how it is. The taser is new.”

“Yeah, well... can't be too careful.” You set the weapon aside and swiveled your chair to look at him properly. “So, what's up?”

Dawn's hands fell to his sides. His demeanor was bright and friendly as always, but there seemed to be a slight droop to his shoulders. “Can I borrow your ear? You're always such a great listener, and I feel like I can trust you with a secret.”

You smiled. “Ooh, a secret,” you murmured clandestinely. “Well, pull up a chair, I got some time.” That was the awesome thing about your work schedule. As long as you got work done, they didn't care what hours you worked.

Dawn pulled up one of the chairs, the act of sitting doing NOTHING to diminish his tall and lanky frame. You'd seen many sides to this animatronic, this agent, this man. You reckoned lots of people have seen the smooth and suave peacock of a schmoozer he was infamous for being. You weren't certain many got to see this side though. The side that was just a little bit less cocky and... dare you even say, perhaps, vulnerable?

“So, I was on a mission with a co-worker. Agent Neon, you know them, yes?”

“I've worked with Neon, yeah. Pleasant person, a delight to collaborate with.”

“Indeed,” Dawn agreed with a nod. His fingers gently drummed on the armrest. The action drew your gaze. You might be a chemist at heart but... you could admire excellent craftsmanship when you saw it. “I recently went on a mission with them. During which I might have...”

“Did you flirt with Agent Neon?” you guessed. Apparently, you had beaten him to the punchline because he tugged at his tie in a... not agitated manner... not nervous either. Damn, you wish you were as good at reading body language as he was.

“I was just being friendly. Just doing what a gentleman would do,” he stated smoothly in his defense.

“Mm-hm,” you said with a smile. “So what happened then?”

“Neon mentioned my brother, Eclipse. And, you know, that wasn't so bad at first. But then later I got so many messages from Eclipse and it was just...” He leaned over, covering his face with his hands. “I didn't mean anything by it, honestly I didn't.”

“Maybe they're just giving you a hard time, pulling your leg, jerking your chain? I mean, I've had friends and some family who do that to me. Just try not to take it personally.” Good lord do you wish you could take your own advice sometimes.

Dawn peeked out at you between his fingers and good gawd how was this bastard (affectionate) able to look equal parts pathetic AND charming at the same time? “You really think that's all it is?”

“I'm almost sure of it. You are...” you sighed. “A very smug peacock of a person, but you're also very sweet and good. That's easy enough to see.”

“Such a honey-coated barb coming from you.” Dawn laughed, leaning back in his seat. “Thank you, that does put me a little bit at ease.”

“Glad I could help. And, hey, if you need me to make you another plate of pancakes, just let me know.” You grinned and gave him a pair of finger guns.

He chortled, bringing his hand to his mouth. “I still have the first one pinned to the fridge.”

Aww, that was really sweet. It made your tummy turn in a pleasant way. Something about your demeanor must have keyed in on his sensors because his eyes lit up and he slid back into the skin of a smooth operator he wore so well.

“Oh, my, did I just get you to blush?” Dawn asked playfully, leaning forward in his chair.

Not wanting to lose face, you scoffed and planted your foot between his legs, pushing against his chair as hard as you could with the intent to make it wheel back. However, you forgot to take into account that he was heavier, and physics existed. So you instead sent yourself wheeling back and crashing into the adjacent desk and tumbling onto the floor.

Or you would have, had a pair of hands not caught you, saving you from a nasty spill. You found yourself staring up at Agent Dawn who looked both amused and concerned.

“Are you alright? You didn't hit your head did you?”

Awkwardness rising. Internal temperatures rising. Reaching critical levels. Only one thing to do. You went limp. “This the end for me. Please bury my body with my book collection.”

“Agent Pancake, don't make me stoop to drastic measures,” Dawn said, taking hold of your hand. “I have various methods of resuscitating you.”

Blast it, this man was good. Too good. WAY TOO GOOD. You huffed dramatically. “Can't let me die in peace, huh?”

“Not a chance. You're far too good of an agent to lose. And far too good of a friend. Non-expendable.”

That was another magical thing about Agent Dawn. When he spoke, he was so good at making you feel like you were the important person in the world. You stopped playing dead and opened your eyes. “Alright, I guess I won't give up the ghost today.”

“Good to hear.” Agent Dawn helped you back onto your feet, and his hold was so incredibly gentle.

“For what it's worth, you're a great friend too,” you told him. Then, to avoid looking at his face, you hugged him.

You felt him tense up a moment and were worried you had crossed a line, but then you felt his arms wrap around you and you squeaked as he lifted you off the floor. You'd always struggled with feelings of self-worth. However, at that moment, you really did feel non-expendable.

(A self indulgent fanwork based on @lavenoon's Accidentally Undercover AU.)

[generalluxun]

Talking about about abuse and psychological damage, have you the last chapter of stripped socks in ao3¿ I think it really nails what an emotional and mental breakdown in a teenage girl looks like and how friendships can shatter without salting any characters, very good reading.

Thanks for the ask. I had bookmarked it instead of subbing so I was a few chapters behind. I left my thoughts on comments there. Especially in chapter 6, a full breakdown of Marinette.

Let's see if I can copy-pasta it. (Also: people should go read this fic. It is quite good and I am extremely picky)

This is headcanon/psychoanalysis territory but it fits so *well*.

Re:Marinette several things are all simultaneously true.

She feels tremendous guilt not only for what is known, but also what is not known. She recognizes the real wrongs she has done and feels genuine remorse.

She feels resentful, she is a 14yr old girl who fought multiple grown adult supervillains with wildly inadequate training or support most of the time. She's also Ladybug, the one with the answers! The entire city dumped the responsibility for protecting itself on her shoulders.

She has a taste for control. She's Ladybug the leader! She's got tremendous power! This dropped into the life of someone who felt previously powerless. The tendency to swing is obvious. Control the situation, control the information, mitigate chances for embarrassment, slather everything in Bathos, bury uncomfortable truths, keep everyone two steps behind so you can be ready when they catch up to yesterday. Adrien, Su-Han, Gabriel, all of it. You see how it is interwoven itself into who she is now.

She has no legitimate stricture authority anymore. Law enforcement? Powerless. The Mayor? Corrupt. Fu? Gone

Su-Han? Incompetent. Her partner? Smitten. This isn't on her at all but it feeds into her response here. (Curiously a state similar to Chloé's at one point again)

Note:These aren't distinct parts of her or meticulous thoughts. It's a hodgepodge of emotions, reactions, learned behaviors, desperation, and yes on some level deliberate ill-will(we all have some)

So what happens when the truth is forced out? Honestly I think we get a large-scale reaction of how she would have handled Adrien. (She's 14, always remember.) Control was stripped away from her. She wasn't *forced* to do anything, except be honest without her filters.

She leans all into the self-blame/self-harm narrative.

This ticks all the boxes above. She *does* feel bad, bit there is no legitimate authority to hold her accountable, those that can don't. Lacking that catharsis she is left with only the disapproval of the masses, people she does resent on some level, people who know nothing. The panels, the armchair coaches, the mob. What *right* do they have? Well... Every right, because shd is a hero, and she knows this, but will their response be proportional and constructive? Ha. It's the mob.

However, if Marinette deliberately enflames them. If she pushes the 'hate me' if she *feeds* their emotional reaction then she can discount it all, in her heart, as blind hatred. She can de-legitimize caring critique by flooding it with emotional feedback. Hence- 'hate me' to her friends. 'I have to be the villain', because she knows she isn't but if she can make people treat her like one, she can fight against that -in her heart-. She can keep the reckoning at arm's length. The more dear the rejection the more she can justify her own secret-keeping. 'I knew they wouldn't understand, and this is proof'.

And for those who won't turn on her? It's classic sympathy fishing. If I hate me/mock me harder than anyone, those who really care will rush to my defense unconditionally. They will be my duvet against the reality of the situation, because their instinct will be to nurture, to justify in my place, and to be 'on my side'.

Again-this isn't some grand villainous scheme, this is the broken toxic self-defense mechanisms of a kid who has been put in multiple positions well past her depth.

This is why Plagg is so perfect here. He denies her sympathy, but he doesn't seek to punish her. He admits his anger, he tells her plainly what she needs to do to make things right. He holds her accountable in a way no one else will, and gives her a path out of the darkness.

It is exactly what she needs, and also what she is terrified of, because it really *is* something she can fail at. And canon tells us Marinette will do anything to avoid being emotionally vulnerable.

I'm rooting for this Marinette to seize this opportunity and grow. I'm rooting for Kagami and Zoé to find the balance of love and accountability that Marinette's life has lacked.

[fitrahgolden]

There's A World You Need To Know: 4 - It's the wrong kind of place to be thinking of you

[PLEASE READ: So, I start to get into Kate’s ethical crisis here. Please note that this is a work of poorly researched fiction. Maybe in real life, there would be no socially acceptable way Kate and Anthony could ever be in a relationship after she’d been his siblings’ therapist. While I am trying to not totally disregard the ethical problem here, this isn’t real life. It’s an HEA.]

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Hi, Kate.  I hope your flight goes OK. Please let us know when you’ve landed safely.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): This is Anthony Bridgerton, by the way.

Brother. Brother. Kate was surprised to see a text from Anthony as she was packing for Ireland. And though she tried not to let herself admit it, it made her smile. But he’s their brother. No relationships with the family members of current clients. No exceptions.

Current clients. The thoughts that distinction led to felt so selfish. It could still have consequences for her career. Would her colleagues take her seriously? Would her other clients? Her publisher? How would Gregory and Hyacinth feel after she abandoned them and then showed back up on Anthony’s arm? They would hate it. They would hate her. If she was having these thoughts, is it right to continue to be their therapist anyway?

After staring at the messages for far too long, she put her phone face down and resumed packing. She turned on music to try to drown the thoughts out. It didn’t work.

—

“Hey, hey! KC, looking gorgeous, as always.” Tom approached Kate as she sat in Heathrow, checked in and ready to board. She smiled when she heard Tom’s greeting. She got up and gave him a tight hug before he settled next to her.

“Thought I was gonna have to go without you. No photos for my next book.”

“I would never.” Tom clutched his chest in mock offense.

“Are you gonna see family while we’re there? We’ll be so close.”

Tom ran his hand through his hair. “Eh, yeah. I reckon I should. I’d never hear the end of it from Mum if I was an hour away from Aunty for three weeks and didn’t pop by.”

“Yeah. You know I won’t need photos every day. You could have a little holiday during the trip.”

“What about you? Fancy a trip to the seaside? Aunty would love to meet you. She’s a big fan.”

“Thanks, but I’m gonna try to work efficiently. I want to get back home as soon as I can.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. I don’t like being away from Mum and Edwina for so long. Or abandoning my clients.” Or anyone else. No, no. There is no one else.

“Abandon? That’s being a bit hard on yourself, KC. Though I guess that is your way.” Tom pulled her into a side hug and she rested her head on his shoulder. “You’re wonderful to your clients. Too wonderful, even. You only take a break from that work to do other work. When’s the last time you took a proper holiday?”

“Well, all this work pays off. Ed's school is taken care of. Mum's house is paid off. They were actually just away themselves. Anyway, I travel,” Kate said defensively.

“Like I said, for work. Hey, why don’t you and I plan for a trip later this year? Once the book is in review, eh? Me, you, Edwina, Mary. No work allowed?”

Kate side eyed him. “I don’t know, Tom…”

Tom nodded knowingly, “Look, again, I’m sorry I misread things when we first started working together. I was a dickhead. But we are friends now, right?”

“Yeah, of course, Tom.”

“Good.” Tom sighed, relieved. “No vacation with your family, though. Got it.”

Kate scrunched up her nose. “No, not mad about that idea.”

—

Checked into their hotel in downtown Cork, Tom walked Kate to her room.

“Bright and early in the morning?”

Kate opened her door and turned back to Tom. “Yep, the building is thankfully a short taxi ride away. Should be able to get down to work pretty quickly.”

“Excellent.” Tom spared a glance into Kate’s room and looked down at her luggage. “You good with your bags?”

“Yep. Don’t worry about me, Tom. Get some sleep. We both need it.”

“Alright. You know I’m just down the hall if you need anything.”

“Mmhmm. Good night.”

“Good night.” Tom took a couple of steps backward before turning and heading to his room.

Once inside, Kate promptly video called Edwina and Mary. As usual, they insisted they were fine without her and, yes, Simon had said he would come by to check on them. Kate wanted to go over the checklist, but was out voted. After good nights and air kisses, Kate hung up, plugged in her phone, unpacked, prepped for tomorrow morning, and finally got ready for bed.

As soon as she lied down, she knew sleep wouldn't be coming anytime soon.

Don't do it. Text Ed. Text Simon. Next Tom. No, not Tom. But anyone else. Don't text him. 

Anthony Bridgerton, was it? Thank you for checking in. Really, it's quite thoughtful. We did land safely and are in for the night so we can get an early start tomorrow.

Kate hit send before she could think too much about the fact that she said "we" and would that make Anthony think she and Tom were sharing a room or something? Doesn't matter. Does not–

Her phone chimed.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Glad to hear it. I've never been to Cork.

First time here. Would you like me to return with a report?

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): A thorough one, yes. Double spaced, if you don't mind.

Of course.

Would it be annoying if I asked about Gregory and Hyacinth?

I know it's not my place.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): No, no. It's fine. It's nice that you care so much about them. They are both in a proper mourning period.

Aw, don't tell me that.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Fine. They won't stop singing Ding Dong, The Witch Is Dead.

Ha ha.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): They miss you. Hyacinth wants a guitar. They plan to give us all music and paint lessons so we will "learn to communicate our feelings while avoiding becoming overwhelmed by them." What have you done to these kids? 

Hopefully, something good. Seems like a lot when it's been two days. I only see them twice a week anyway.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): And I genuinely think it's the highlight of their week. Who knew having a safe outlet to express yourself could be so rewarding?

Me. I knew. You should try it. 

Shit, sorry. That was out of line. 

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): No, it's OK.

No, it's not. I try really hard to avoid giving unsolicited advice.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Good on you. Personally, I find it impossible not to tell everyone what they should be doing at all times.

Well, you should be telling me to go to sleep, then.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Go to sleep, Kate.

Good night, Anthony.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Good night. 

—

“Think we are at the halfway mark?” Tom asked as he set Kate’s drink down in front of her. They were finishing up supper at the pub directly across the street from their hotel.

“Yeah, I think I can confidently say that.” Kate sat back triumphantly.

“Only a week in. Efficient, indeed. And it’s looking amazing, but you already knew that. Client happy so far?”

“Yup.” Tom studied her for a moment. Kate, furrowed her brow. “What?”

“You are usually more of a stress ball during these big projects. Everything’s seeming to flow more easily this go round.” Kate shrugged. “Might it be you’ve finally learned to relax? That’s the right direction towards letting yourself take a real holiday, I suppose.”

“Speaking of, are you making your way towards the coast in the morning?”

“Yeah, playing dutiful nephew. Sure you don’t want to come?”

“Thanks, but I’ve got a good rhythm set. Don’t want to lose momentum.”

Kate’s phone chimed. She tried to ignore it, but–

“That thing’s been going off like mad all evening.” Tom chuckled.

“It’s what I get for asking for updates from Ed and Mum as well as updates on their updates from Si.”

It was true. She was exchanging a lot of messages with her family. But she and Anthony had also not stopped texting since her first night in Cork. And it had Kate giddy. Giddy. After the first couple of days, she decided to compartmentalize away her guilty feelings. She could enjoy talking with him. They were just talking. As friends.

Her phone chimed again.

“You don’t have to ignore them on my account.”

“You don’t mind?” Kate was already reaching into her pocket.

“Go on. Want another?” Tom pointed at her glass.

“Yes, please,” Kate said, not looking up from her phone.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Was I right? I was, wasn’t I?

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): What’s my prize?

Remind me what this is referring to?

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): You know what.

I’m sure I don’t.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Right. You’re already halfway done, aren’t you? And all of Cork is falling at your feet, feeling utterly unworthy of their city being permanently graced by the artwork of one Kathani Cavery Sharma.

Kate could feel herself grinning like an idiot and she didn't care.

I don't know about the second thing.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Which means I'm right about the first thing. That’s all I need to be the victor, so I ask again, what are my spoils?

See, it would have been a legitimate bet if we had laid out specific terms, but alas, we made no such agreement.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Yeah, no, I'll let you know what my spoils are to be once I've decided, Ms. Sharma.

I can hear you maniacally rubbing your hands together from here.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): I'm being loud for your benefit.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Can I see any pictures of your work in progress or do I have to wait until it's done?

Kate's cheeks got hot. Calm down, dummy. He's asking for pictures of the mural, not you. 

So, you’ve been playing the long game. All this talking has just been a way to get early access to the latest attraction in Cork? How can I be sure nothing I share will be leaked to every major news site in the world by tomorrow morning?

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Easy. You have leverage. Those aforementioned spoils I want from you. Nay, I am owed! I wouldn't dare betray you before I've secured those.

Fingers snapped in front of Kate's face. She blinked up and saw Tom smiling at her curiously.

"Shit, sorry."

"No, it's fine. I guess it's all good news?"

"Ha, yeah."

Tom leaned back in his chair. Kate pushed some hair–that was already behind her ear–behind her ear. Why do you feel nervous? Nothing is going on and it's none of Tom's business if anything was.

"You OK?"

Kate sighed and rolled her eyes. "I really am, Tom."

"I know it's fucked up, but that's why I'm asking. You seem genuinely OK. It's off brand."

Kate sat up straight. "What does that mean?"

"Sorry, sorry. That came out wrong." Tom held his hands up in surrender. "I'm being a dick. Like I said, I've never seen you so relaxed. Whatever the reason, I'm happy for you."

"Um, thanks."

The conversation finally moved on and Kate called it a night before they could circle back around to why Kate was in such a good mood. She didn't want things to be awkward with Tom and she meant it when she said they were friends. Not the kind of friend she can confide in about Anthony, though. On top of Tom knowing Anthony, at least once upon a time, she didn't want to talk to anyone about Anthony, full stop.

—

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Hey, I promise I was just curious about what you're doing over there.

Just getting back into my room. Hope you are ready to have your mind blown. 

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Boo! I can't even see anything. Some random woman is taking up most of the frame. How am I supposed to sell this to The Daily Mail? Give me something I can use!

Kate's smile fell when the next message came through. 

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Did Tom take that?

For some reason Kate didn't want to acknowledge, she was struggling with how to respond. It doesn't matter. You're not doing anything wrong. Anthony doesn't care. Why would he care? He's asking because he knows Tom, that's all.

Yeah. I forgot you guys know each other, right? Si mentioned that at some point. You were all mates at Oxford?

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): Yeah. Haven't talked to him in years. You guys work together often?

Um, yeah, I guess you could say that. He was recommended to me when I was working on my book.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): He's a good bloke from what I remember.

What is his aim? Am I supposed to agree?

I'll be on my own for a few days, though. He has family nearby so he's going to see them while we are here.

Who fucking cares? I don't want to talk about Tom.

Any ideas for what you want for winning our "bet?" (Which I maintain is illegitimate and would never hold up in court, but don't mind me.)

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): A tour of your favorite murals around here when you get back. El is always going on about how I'm not cultured enough.

Shit, shit, shit. A date? No, not a date. Get the fuck over yourself, Christ.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): It would also drive her mad if THE Kate Sharma gave me a personal public art tour.

You're mean. We should invite her.

Anthony Bridgerton (G and H Brother): No, we shouldn't.

[takataapui]

1, 5, 44!

thank you so much for asking! i'm sorry it took me so long to respond, I was like 'ah yes, I'll wait until I'm not on my phone' and then. forgor.

Do they have any crafting hobbies?

Marr (Changeling Monk) creates costumes for xyr storytelling troupe! They've long since sewn their own clothes, primarily as a form of rebellion when they were young, but found xyr skill celebrated when xe started travelling with the Spinning Yarns!

I feel like Māhina (Aasimar-Goliath Sorcerer) is gonna take up a craft. I'm not sure what it'll be yet, maybe wood carving. I'll have to do a bit of hunting for the right one for her. She'll use it to create with her hands, when she feels like all she does is break.

Vye (Fire Genasi Blood Hunter) used to really enjoy crafting things out of snow and ice, when they lived up North. Does that count? I think their work probably got quite well known, before It All Went Down.

Dam enjoys drawing. He's not particularly good, but he enjoys it.

5. Do they have any tattoos? If so what are they and do they have any special meaning?

Marr has a magical tattoo! Xe got it in the very first session, along with the rest of the party as they were marked by a mysterious force that we're all still figuring out! The tattoo lets them link minds with someone else. Marr also has two bands around her left forearm, representing Gait (her late wife) and Kin (her child).

Māhina doesn't have tattoos, alas. I think her clan has special tattoos, but she always resisted getting them and probably will never get those specific ones. She's quite noticable as a person (she has a glowing moon halo and is 7ft tall) so I don't think she'd get any noticable ones, but maybe she'd get one for just herself in future. Maybe something plant like to show that things can grow even in harsh terrain. A dandelion would be lovely and meaningful to her.

Vye has allllll the tats, I reckon. She's the kind of person to get a tattoo because she thinks it looks cool so she's covered, and uses the meaningless ones to hide the few meaningful ones. I imagine she's got one for her little sister hidden, and her mentor.

Dam doesn't have any tattoos, I don't have any reasoning, I think he just prefers to keep meaningful things in his heart, and doesn't see a point to ones that don't hold meaning.

44. Who, if anyone, would they trust with their deepest secrets?

Marr's list is very small. Gait, who is dead now, knew everything about them. I think Gait's grandmother, their mentor in all things monk to a lesser extent. Marr is a deeply private person. I think when Kin grows up, Marr will share some of the parts of them with Kin, but only certain parts. Most of the secrets and stories that Marr holds will be hidden deep inside them until someone can break that barrier of trust.

Māhina is very adrift. She's found herself stuck with a band of yahoos only by virtue of having died and becoming basically a slave, punishable by death if she disobeyed. I think the only person she'd consider telling her secrets to is her fellow party member Yurris, and even then, only if circumstances meant it was necessary. She's deeply, deeply, DEEPLY afraid of being vulnerable, so Yurris has really only breached the outer layer of her defenses, but he still has alllll the walls and the cannons and the moat to go through.

For a while, Vye considered telling Teak (her ex-girlfriend, it's... complicated) all her secrets, but Teak abandoned her before she could. So alas, she doesn't really have anyone any more. Her old ship captain, Mercy Judgeway, potentially. Her mentor back home, if Vye even knew where she was. I think Vye told her little sister everything she could that wouldn't put Avan in danger.

Dam told his partners everything. Shame that one of his partners didn't do the same, even though Rakelle was only trying to protect him and the other 2.

(I'm realising a few of my characters are deeply deeply lonely people. Damn. I'm sure that's totally fine and for no reason at all.)

Ask me things from this list about my D&D characters!

Thank you so much! This was so much fun, I love discovering things about my own dnd characters while thinking about them!

[crushculture03]

Chapter 4

Jules we've landed" matty said gently shaking the girl awake. Julie slowly lifted her head from his shoulderand rubbed the sleep from her eyes "You know you're cute when you sleep" Matty says. "Watching me sleep healy? Didn't know you were such a creep" she chuckles looking over at him. He puts his hands up in mock defense, "hey you fell asleep on my shoulder so it was hard to not watch you... ok maybe that does sound creepy" he chuckles, collects his stuff and stands up.

Leaving the plane, the two make sure not to separate, through out the course of trying to find baggage claim, a few fans stop the band to take photos. Jules thought it was so cute how the boys interacted with their fans. She could tell how genuinely grateful they were to have such a loyal fan base, they listened to them and got to know them and their names.

Eventually After all their luggage had arrived the band and crew all made it on to the tour bus.

Plopping down next to julie, matty said "Well Jules welcome to the big apple, you ready for the start of tour?" he asked, analzing the girls face as she quickly tired to find an answer. "Yeah! I think it's going to be an amazing tour. If i'm being honest i'm a bit nervous, this is my first big tour" she responds, nervously playing with her hands.

Matty places his fingers under her chin and nudges her chin up so shes facing him. He looks into her eyes and says "Hey it'll be alright I promise, if you ever feel overwhelmed find me and I'll help, I know you're amazing at your job, i've seen your work. Trust me you're going to kill it" he says, sending her a soft smile. "Thanks matty, that was really sweet" jules smiles and pulls him into a hug.

After an hour drive, the bus finally arrives at the hotel, "Ok everyone, I'm going to check us in you guys stay here" Jamie says, then heads into the building.

"Oy healy, reckon he makes us share a room again" george calls from the back of the bus. "Jamie says we don't have to anymore, which finally because I was tired of the snoring" Matty quips back. "Please you're just thankful that you can shag julie without me walking in" george responds back, trying to hold in his laughter.

Jules's face goes bright red at the thought, "Fuck off george" matty responds, rolling his eyes. "Sorry jules I hope he didn't make you uncomfortable, I mean not that I wouldn't love to you know, but of course up to you, but don't think I wouldn't, sometimes george just talks out of his ass" matty responded fummbling over his words.

Julie found it cute how his face got all pink at the thought of them together, "Relax healy you're all good ok?" she giggles, matty sighs and nods his head in response.

Jamie soon re-enters the bus "Okay everyone here are your room keys, boys you will have your own rooms, everyone else pair up and I'll give you the keys to your rooms! Let's make this a good tour!" jamie says, grinning widely.

Jules watches, patiently as everyone gets their keys and head into the hotel. Eventually she gets up to grab a key, realizing there is no one left to room with she nervously makes her way up to Jamie. "Jaime what should I do, I don't have a roommate" "No worries jules, I got you your own room" he smiles and hands her the plastic card.

After heading to her room, she quickly opens the door and plops down on her bed. She didn't realoze she had fallen asleep until she was awoken to the sound of loud knocking pn her door. Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, she opens the door revealing an equally as sleepy matty.

"Hey love get a good nap in?" matty said, sending her a smile. "I could ask you the same thing" she chuckled and stepped aside, motioning for him to come in. "What time is it?" jules asked, as she sat next to matty.

He checked his phone, then looked bak up at her "It's 1am" he chuckles , "wow I slept for 4 hours straight?" she shakes her head and laughes "I can't believe I was out for that long" she finished.

"Might as well get your sleep in before tour starts, because once it does it's going to be lots of long nights" he tells the girl and wraps an arm around her. "It'll be fun though, but I just wanted to come by and check on you. I'll leave So you can get some rest" He says and goes to stand up but suddenly she grabs his wrist to stop him from leaving, "Wait stay, I'm not that tired right now, wanna watch a movie?" she asks, looking at him with a pleading look. He nods and sits back down next to her, slowly kicking off his shoes and moving back kon the bed so his back is against the head board.

Jules quickly got up to change out of the clothes she had been wearing all day, and into something more comfortable. She then joins him on the bed and picks up the remote, browsing through all the movies the hotel had " Is heathers alright? It's one of my favorite movies" she says. "Sounds amazing, I've never actually seen it before, she looked over at him, a shock look on her face "Really? Well we're going to change that" she presses the start button and movie begins.

Mid way through the movie, Matty looks over to find Jules fast asleep. He chuckles and takes the remote from the nightstand and stops the movie. He too finds himself sleepy and decides to just stay and sleep in her room.

[terastalungrad]

BB20: Friday 3 November

Live Eviction 4: Dylan V Noky V Paul V Trish

AJ claims that in Blackburn, she'd eat lobster on a bed of gravy. I've seen a lot of class-based comedy in my time, but this joke is beyond my analysis.

Chanelle had a bad dream. Her first dream in the house. She dreamt she was blocked by someone on WhatsApp and Facebook.

"What's going on in Noksville?" is Jordan's fun way of greeting Noky.

Housemates discuss their icks:

Jordan - Men who adjust their genitals.

Trish - Emotional unavailability.

Jordan again - People who enjoy still water.

Matty - People who order sparkling water for the table.

Yinrun is given a secret mission. She must cry in front of three housemates, who console and hug her. She must also cause one of the three to cry.

Big Brother asks her what story she'll use to make housemates cry. She tells the story of a sad film she saw about a professor and their animals. Describing the film causes her to cry floods of tears in the diary room.

She's consoled quickly by Noky, Henry and Dylan. But making a housemate cry is harder.

She tries Jordan. Utterly foolish. He has no emotional response to the sad professor story at all.

Yinrun makes Trish cry by making her think about her children.

Winning the party, Yinrun has 6 tickets to invite 6 friends.

She invites Jenkin, Chanelle, Tom, Dylan, Trish and Noky. OHHHH!! I couldn't work out what these people had in common at all, but they're the housemates who received punishments in the button task. That's such a sweet thing to do :((((

Trish calls out Jordan for the way he treats Henry - flirting with him only when Matty's not available. Jordan admits this, but doesn't know what to do. Trish's advice - be intentional in the things you do. Jordan gets a bit defensive.

Jordan: But I've never kissed him with tongues.

Trish: Now Jordan. Come on.

The Yinrun party features drinks, treats, music and costumes. The five housemates not invited are confined to the upstairs - with windows allowing them to observe the party at all times.

Olivia has a big sulk about not getting to be at the party. She's annoyed that it's only Yinrun's friends who get a party. A weird observation, since Yinrun has explicitly NOT picked her friends. Jordan, Henry and Matty have all been left out.

Olivia and Paul make noises from upstairs to disrupt the party. Paul moons the partygoers, he throws litter at them, and later comes downstairs to mess with the drinks.

This crosses the line into bullying, I reckon. Paul's behaviour is intended to humiliate, and only works because of intimidation. He's aggressive with Noky for staring at him.

Noky goes to the loo to have a cry about it. :(

Ooh, Trish calls Paul a bully! Oh, and she explicitly calls him out for intimidation.

Paul doesn't get it. He's behaving instinctively. Like most bullies, he isn't conscious of his real desires.

He's convinced himself that this is just a normal, classic Paul prank - like putting gravestones in the bedroom, or placing lettuce on Kerry.

I really couldn't call who'd be evicted tonight, but ... surely Paul's going now? Will ITV2's viewers stand for a man who spoils Yinrun's party?

Huge boos for Paul!! Some boos for Dylan. Cheers for Noky and Trish!

Who do I want to go? Paul and Dylan too, I suppose. I like Trish and Noky, and I do enjoy watching them in the show.

Aww, Noky apologises to Yinrun for lowering the mood. :( Noky is always so quick to comfort Yinrun, and it's nice seeing Yinrun comfort Noky in return.

Jenkin and Tom talk, and they're defensive of Paul. More to the point, they don't like Trish - so it's easy to think of this drama as Trish's fault for having a go at Paul.

In conversation with Jordan, Matty says he doesn't know what he's allowed to do anymore. Can he not sit with Henry and Trish? What are the boundaries Jordan needs?

It's clear that Jordan believes this is a one-side crush. He doesn't think Matty feels anything for him, but couldn't stand it if Matty actually confirmed this.

Jordan speaks to Henry, and it's nice. Jordan makes it clear that Henry means the world to him - and that the friendship is platonic.

Paul talks to Olivia, and it's clear now that his concern with Trish is a status thing. He doesn't like it when people think they "rule the roost". It seems like he's also pleased with himself for responding differently to Trish than Dylan did, and that this is a victory of sort for him.

Now, listen.

I don't trust Big Brother viewers. I think they can be incredibly unkind.

But sometimes I'm totally on their side. When they cheer Noky and Trish, it's music to my ears.

When Noky hears the cheers, she's immediately overwhelmed by emotion.

When Trish hears her cheers, she's stoic.

Fair play.

And okay, ITV. It took you three weeks. But you finally gave me an eviction night I can wholeheartedly endorse.

[coffeeandfaeries]

Zodiac Academy: Ruthless Fae/The Reckoning - A book review

C. Peckham and S. Valenti

I’m gonna be honest, I’m liking this series less and less with each book. My memory is a bit fuzzy and I barely remember what happened in this one. I remember that in this book they finally took those mid-term exams, the so-called “Reckoning”. The thing that actually bothers me the most is that they definitely will get together with one of the heirs and the professor. Okay, I kinda do like the professor. I'll be honest and I think that he and Darcy are cute together. Not exactly a healthy relationship, but it’s fiction so I’ll let it slide.

Okay so I know I should’ve expected it because it’s a bully romance, but in my defense, I didn’t see that before I started reading the series. It’s kinda obvious that Darcy will end up with Orion and Tori will end up with Darius. At first I was like hell yeah they’re gonna kill the Heirs and take over the throne, but uhh that ain’t happening apparently.

Tori and Darius have a weird ass relationship, one moment they are torturing each other. He made her believe he was gonna kill her and she set his room on fire and stole his stuff. They keep fighting and undermining each other, and then all of a sudden he takes care of her when she gets drunk and blacks out.

He was sweet in that one chapter, I’ll give him that. But honestly, their relationship makes no sense to me at all. I don’t see why they should trust each other, and how are you supposed to date someone you can’t trust?

Either in this book, or the next one we learn about soulmates, and apparently every Fae has one, but it’s up to them to decide if they will be with their soulmate. If they decide they want each other they will not be able to stay away from each other, but if they decide against it, they will not be able to try again no matter how hard they try. I’m guessing that Darius and Orion are supposed to be their soulmates.

The writers kinda forgot to give the other male characters any personality so I’m pretty sure my guess is correct. On top of that Darius’ father has put some kind of spell on Orion and Darius that bonds them. Because of that bond, Orion can feel Darius’ pain and feels the need to protect him. Definitely hasn’t been done so that the four of them have a reason to be together without the other three heirs.

Max, Seth, and Caleb are once again almost completely forgotten. Caleb and Tori are having regular sex and Seth accidentally made Darcy his omega, so they get a bit of attention every now and then, but Max is so irrelevant they might as well kill him off. This time we got to see the story from Caleb’s POV a couple of times, but the only thing he thinks about is Tori, so it’s not like we learned anything about him anyway.

I have just realized that I have no idea what happened in Book 2 and what happened in Book 3, so I’m gonna make this the review about both of the books oh God.

So, not only is Tori regularly screwing Caleb, but Darcy has also decided to make the relationship with Orion official, obviously this is a secret. And while they’re fucking their literal enemies who want them dead, they’re also pulling harmless pranks as if that’s gonna scare the Heirs into submission. Yeah, you sure showed them when you spread the rumor that Caleb likes Pegasuses, gave Seth flies, and put griffin shit in Max’s suit. Technically I suppose you set Darius’ room on fire and made him doubt all his friendships, humiliated Caleb, ruined Seth’s reputation and drove his pack away, and made Max lose the game of whatever your magical sport is called, but all of that is so irrelevant, and most importantly TEMPORARY.

Thankfully, by the end of the second book the girls FINALLY got a hang of their powers and blasted the nymphs with some badass blue fire, scaring the heirs in the process, and passed the Reckoning proving their worth.

Now by the end of book 3, the girls, Darius and Orion get kidnapped by Mr Acrux (Darius’ dad) who uses the twins to summon the fifth element, which is (I think) darkness. While he did this the girls' Order emerged, and they were phoenixes. A rare order that was extinct for over a thousand years, making them unbelievably powerful since no fire (including dragon fire) can harm them, but they can easily kill dragons with their own fire, which is the only fire that can harm a dragon. (of course, they’re stronger than their enemy, how shocking)

Now this gives Darius, Orion, and the twins a reason to work together, since they now have a common enemy - Mr Acrux. Very predictable, yeah I know, but honestly I didn’t expect much from the book series that markets itself as “Hogwarts if Voldemort was the headmaster” and calls itself a “bully romance”. I wasn’t expecting a literary masterpiece. It’s entertaining, funny, and sexy. If I want something profound I’ll read classic literature.

Rating : ⛤⛤

[alexbkrieger13]

Been mulling over Sweden squad. You want the players you like called up of course but have to do some "kill your darlings". You need a balanced squad, a healthy squad with players who can play 90+ minutes on a tight game schedule and if that's not possible players who can play at least 30-45 minutes, players in good form or who can shake off the cobwebs really fast, experience, proven working on pitch player relations, squad players used for rotation, different player abilities, players who can play more than one position and last but not least team players who contribute to preserve harmony in the squad and don't bring drama into camp. The latter isn't an issue for Sweden fortunately.

I think these 17 players are more or less set in stone:

Keepers Falk, Zecira

Defenders Magda, Jonna, Ilestedt, Björn, Sandberg, Lundkvist

Midfielders & forwards Rubensson, Angeldahl, Kosse, Benni, Stina, Blomqvist, Frido, Madde, Jojjo

Then I think:

Third keeper Lindahl if healthy to support Falk and Zecira with her vast experience from being first keeper in many championships. She has accepted to not be the first keeper anymore and is fine with it. If she's not healthy then Lind is an alternative. She's been called up for a look recently.

Lind was injured with a shoulder fracture and was sidelined for Roma. I haven't looked too deep into how much she's played, but the league games I saw she'd started in Roma won. Lind started in the 1-1 tie against Wolfsburg too. Besides, I reckon she was a very big part of how mid relegation league table Jitex eliminated Vittsjö 1-0 in the cup the other autumn. Vittsjö started a strong line up with their national team players from Australia and so on. Jitex goal was scored in open play. She'd left for Roma in the spring when it was time for Jitex as only relegation league team left to play in the cup group stage. They were annihilated. She has the advantage of international experience from Germany and Italy plus age over Enblom. Lind is starting to hit her prime years as keeper.

Defenders Nildén and Lennartsson maybe Kullberg or Wijk. Rybrink could be an option. If Glas is healthy in some capacity and can play enough minutes she should be called up, but she's not back playing yet sadly. Sempan doesn't seem to be in good form lately unfortunately and then there are other players that's better to call up. Back up players for RB are Rubensson, Ilestedt, Roddar, Kullberg and Björn.

Midfielders & forwards If Seger is healthy and gamefit she's in. Roddar as squad player. Vinberg and/or Kafaji maybe with the risk of Madde won't be called up if both are in. All three are unpredictable with individual skills to do things on the pitch you don't see coming as a defender or keeper. Sweden need those player types. Anvegård is a great box player who also delievers assists and take the defensive job. If she's in top form she belongs in a championship squad.

Hurtig has barely played for Arsenal and isn't gamefit. She's a great player, very intelligent and has probably the best header game of all players in the squad. Her skills are needed but at the same time it's been hard to find the right role for her in the national team. It'd do her good to step in and dare to claim her place more, she's too humble for her own good as a player. She risks very much to sit this one out sadly.

Sofia hasn't been in good form in a long while and it hasn't worked out for her at all in the national team. Hasn't been convincing. She seems to be in decent form now with confidence from her new club team and she scores goals. Her speed to run defenses into bits is valuable and she can keep running for hours on end. Her weakness is the service into the box isn't always of good quality and Sweden can't afford a missed chance due to putting the ball out of play over the line. There are other players in Sweden squad who can run defenses into bits and who have better quality on the service into the box. Not sure what Sofia is contributing with is enough this time around. I like her but she needs to be more clinical and not so hit or miss. It's frustrating to watch. Another weakness is questionable decision making at times.

Yeah I think realistically I would be saying majority of the squad is set the very few areas realistically where you'd be saying players could come in. The big question in defense is the Hanna G one because realistically we've heard nothing since February so who knows if she's available it changes who I think would be called in. Spots kind of around the team I think it is gonna come down to who's fit, who's available and Who Peter trusts as well.

With Sofia... It's a hard one to call I think she's looked better for San Diego from what I've seen recently but at the same time for Sweden I'd be bringing her on from the bench more than I would be starting her because I think there are players who were better straight off the bat but then again she's such an experience player and she thrives in the World Cup that I would be having around in the squad no questions

[eristic-kaleidoscope]

The Muddled Palms of Our Hands || Byrne || Trial 4-5 || RE: Jae-min, Kenshin, KOKONE

In truth, Byrne hadn't planned on saying a thing from here on. Defending one felt like condemning the others, and none of the options were ones he wanted to reckon with. There were times he figured he needed to just... stand down, and spend the rest of his time preparing to mourn. To lose another. And that stung. There'd yet to be a single case where he'd been let off woundless, and it seemed that trend would more or less continue, wouldn't it?

He... really hadn't planned on saying a thing. He really hadn't.

Byrne winced as his name was invoked.

"My guy, first you say that no defense I can give is worth anything because of my bias, and then you ask me to fucking throw my boyfriend under the bus two fuckin' sentences later? Do you not even have an OUNCE of sympathy for any of the four of us right now? Give me a fucking break! Besides, don't YOU live in a house? Doesn't EVERYONE here live in a house? It's not fucking weird for anyone here to have a key!"

He wheezed, clearly struggling. He wasn't NEARLY as enraged as he'd been only a day before, but that didn't mean he couldn't get upset. Not when he felt like he was being put into an INCREDIBLY unfair position on all sides, and... And it wasn't even like... Ugh. He pressed a hand to his forehead and reached into his pocket, pulling out a keyring only to stop partway, as Kenshin spoke in his stead. Byrne's own keys slid back into his pocket as he swallowed, listening to the lament.

Byrne lowered his voice.

"I already know nobody's gonna trust it so thanks for point that out but... Kenshin never wakes up earlier than 8 pretty much ever. Most of the time is more like 10 or 11, even, and... That didn't change during the motive. And before you can say he did prep last night, he was too busy taking care of my wasted ass having a mental breakdown and dragging me back to the room when  I was trying to get drunk enough to pass out outside and evade the 'sleep in your own dorm' rule. He had his hands full."

... He sighed. He hadn't had the chance to have a proper conversation with his memories returned to him yet. That was just another little box to add to the to-do list. It felt like it kept growing, with increasingly little time to actually tick the boxes.

... The problem was he didn't exactly have a logically sound argument to protect END or KOKONE here other than another 'They would never.' Which as established, was flimsy as hell. He let out a shaken breath, flashing both an apologetic look. But he would never accuse them, either. This was the best he could manage in his upset.

Listening to KOKONE, however, it was almost like a verbal gut punch of a different variety. Was... Byrne making them feel that way? ... Had he not... expressed enough appreciation? Was his insistence on calling them KOKONE a problem, actually? He stared at the ground.

"... I never disliked you. If I did, I wouldn't've... Spent as long talking to you as I did yesterday, and... Just because you were different didn't make you any less of a friend to me, y'know? Having gotten to know the both of you a little bit, I think I can... solidly say I like both. But... ahah... That's... That doesn't sound like you, y'know? ... Dunno if you remember it? How we talked about... How we'd both fuckin' live, for the sake of other people if not for ourselves? Back in the petting zoo? ... You'd said you wouldn't murder anybody ever back then, and I still wanna believe that."

He swallowed. Oh how he desperate he was to want to believe neither of them to have done a thing.