#they're in the middle of a rocky patch

[post-it-notes7]

(he was)

[witherby]

I love your Littlest Wayne series! I was just wondering, can Connor still hear mouse when she is in the shadows? Like, how would he react if she suddenly used her powers and he couldn't hear her anymore?

Ohhhh I LOVE THIS PROMPT. Let's explore that!

More Conner x Gender Neutral!Reader coming up~

Littlest Wayne: Signs of Life

Masterlist is Here!

Conner uses your heartbeat to lull himself to sleep. Its steady cadence is an anchor point for him when he's overwhelmed, or when he misses you, or when he wants to know where you are. Its calm, consistent thumping is always in the back of his mind, even when he isn't consciously listening for it.

So when he cracks his eyes open out of a dead sleep, groggy and confused, it takes him entirely too long to realize that he woke up because can't hear you anymore.

He's at Wayne Manor in seconds, uncaring of the alarms he's tripping in his haste to get to you, and hovering anxiously in the air when he finds your bedroom unoccupied. When Hal blearily stumbles in and asks him why he's in his youngest's room in the middle of the night again, and to please stop doing that because it's very inappropriate, Conner grips his shoulders too tight and blurts out the first coherent thought in his mind.

"I can't hear them!"

Hal rubs the sleep from his eyes, unphased. "Kid, I don't know what —"

"I can't hear their heartbeat."

The alertness is there now. Hal pushes his hands away and goes to the bed, pulling the covers back.

"The sheets are cold. Stay here, I'm getting Bruce."

Conner zips out of the room and pulls Bruce from his bed, then sets him back on the floor before Hal can even finish turning towards the door.

"Help me find them!" He snaps in a panic. Bruce blinks heavily, but it doesn't take him long to realize there's an emergency.

"When did you stop hearing them?" Bruce asks, glancing around your room. The only sign of disturbance is the window Conner came through, which was closed prior to his arrival. Bruce starts examining the space around your bed, wondering if you simply slipped into your pocket dimension or if something actually happened, and Hal leaves to go grab his ring so he can scan the area.

"Eight minutes ago. I woke up because I couldn't hear their heartbeat anymore, Bruce. I've never not been able to hear them before, I can't see them or detect their heat signature —"

"Superboy," Bruce says firmly, "deep breaths. It's extremely likely that they're still alive, but you can't help track them down if you're panicking."

Conner takes deep breaths. A little too deep. When he exhales the wind almost pushes Bruce over. He glares at Conner, who grimaces and flies back through the window to breathe outside instead.

"Where are you..." He whispers, frowning. He wraps his arms around his waist in a facsimile of a hug and closes his eyes, trying to center himself.

It'll be fine. Bruce and Hal don't seem to be frightened (they aren't a good base to compare to anyway, being seasoned vigilantes trained not to panic in stressful situations) and they aren't making any attempts to reach out to other League members for backup. It'll be fine. You're alive somewhere, Conner just can't hear you or see you or smell you or sense you or —

Deep breaths, he reminds himself. Focus. Just breathe and keep looking. They're fine. They're safe. They're....on the moon.

No fucking way.

Conner opens his eyes, incredulous. He listens for your heartbeat again, expanding his hearing outside of Earth.

There it is. The steady thu-thump, thu-thump, thu-thump he's grown to love is on the dark side of the goddamn moon. Like metal to a magnet, he follows the sound of you up, and up, and up, until he breaches the atmosphere and enters space. Then flies even further still, until his socked feet touch down onto the rocky surface.

"You scared the shit out of me," he snaps, when what he meant to say was "I'm so relieved you're okay."

A lumpy patch of darkness, darker than the rest of the ground, wobbles a little and inches forward until it's tickling Conner's toes. You move like you're unused to the terrain. It only makes him angrier.

"...a w a k e...w h y..."

"It's your fault," he says, hands shaking so bad he clenches them into fists. "I woke up with this huge sense of dread. Something was wrong, every bone in my body knew it. And I realized I couldn't hear your heart anymore."

He presses his fists to his eyes, applying pressure until bursts of color dance behind closed lids. They're burning, and not from the threat of head vision.

"I thought you were — I couldn't find —" he shakes his head and gasps your name. He feels that same tickling sensation on his feet again, more insistent. He steps away from your shadow. "Do you know how terrifying that was? To wake up and not find a single sign of life!? It's the middle of the night, and you're out here just — just on the moon!! On THE moon, the one in outer space!! When did you even find out you could travel off-planet!?"

"...y e s t e r d a y...p r a c t i c i n g..."

"Leave a note next time!" Conner says. He wants to throw something. Wants to kick the moon apart. Wants to drag you from the darkness and never let you out of his arms. "Leave a text! Tell someone something before you do this again!!"

"...i p r o m i s e...s o r r y C o n n e r..."

This time, when your darkness reaches for him, Conner allows himself to be pulled under and into your tight embrace. He floats in absolute darkness with you, soothing himself with your heartbeat.

When you return to your room, Bruce and Hal find you and Conner in each other's arms and sleeping away.

[yourresidentstanlover]

gaaaahhh i love ship charts so much hehe (this one was made by @printzeizarra)

i'm gonna ramble about these dumbasses for a sec (also their ship name is 'style' hehe)

the reason why everyone hates them together (except for the rest of the pines family (that includes soos)) is because they are fucking menaces when paired together. they've robbed a lot of people by themselves, but when they're together, holy shit man keep an eye on your wallet.

kyle works as a waiter at greasy's, so that's how he dropped pancakes on stan.

stan does all of the remembering bc kyle's short-term memory isn't good, and fun fact: it took a while for kyle to remember stan's name because of it. but kyle's experiences with memory loss and just general memory problems are actually useful for helping stan after weirdmageddon.

kyle's had an unfortunate amount of brain damage over the years, which has resulted in problems including, but not limited to: amusia (tone-deafness), the pupil in his left eye being permanently dilated (like david bowie!), god-awful migraines, problems with long-term and short-term memory, and tinnitus.

kyle doesn't fall in love easily, since he's demiromantic, and he rarely gets close enough with people to trust them. stan is a rare exception.

since stan's from new jersey and kyle is from tennessee, they have different vernaculars and it's kinda funny to see the contrast sometimes. kyle doesn't have much of an accent anymore, but when he's angry, his southern accent will come out, which stan finds absolutely hilarious.

kyle is biracial, and his mother is from mexico, so he speaks both spanish and english, and has accidentally swapped them in the middle of a conversation multiple times. stan also speaks spanish (from his time in both tijuana and colombia) so they talk in spanish around the kids if they don't want them to know what's being said.

even with only one arm, kyle has managed to steal stan's wallet multiple times, and usually takes a few bucks out just because he can. he's a petty cunt sometimes lol.

kyle isn't so much secretive about his past as he is forgetful. he doesn't really remember a whole lot from when he was younger, HOWEVER. he does remember dating a man called andrew alcatraz, and hooo boy when he finds those fake ids in 'not what he seems,' their whole relationship gets pretty rocky for a bit.

they do patch it up in the end, and agree to have no more secrets from each other.

(yes i know 'actually' is misspelled. im not fixing it procreate's text tool is a pain in the ass. and that's supposed to be kyle's left hand but i forgot how hands work and drew it backwards. not fixing that either lmao)

(i didn't realize that i got the 'brings up the past' one switched so i had to fix it hehe)

[zealoushunterzombie]

My Northamptonshire Girl part three

You stumble out of the rocky area feeling used, dried cum on your toes, cum in your bikini top, your hair messed and knees red.. maybe people can tell you've been a whore, maybe not you don't care... you really need it now, you need to get your cunt stuffed full of daddys cock badly.. daddy's turned you into a hungry, greedy slut.

You're feeling very lucky that you wore black so no one can see the wet patch around your pussy.. the smell of daddy's cum so close to your face is making it hard for you to try and focus on something else.

You decide to go and have a drink, it's mid afternoon and you need to take the edge off, you need to relax.. you order a drink and sit down looking out at the beach and the cabanas. You take your first sip feeling the refreshment from the drink begin to calm you a little... but... it's almost like daddy knows... the vibrator kicks in to gear again, this time not even working it's way up it's on full blast from the jump.

Fuck.. fuck.. fuck... this is intense... you hold on to the table trying to look normal but you want to explode, you want to spread your legs, moan and yell for daddy to fuck you... but you can't so you cross your legs and act like a fire isn't breaking out inside your cunt right now...

Brrr... brrr.. brrr.. your phone vibrates, it's daddy.

You read it and jump up instantly, daddys going to fuck you in a cabana, he told you to come find him… it's happening... you need this cock so bad, you want to feel daddys cum warming you up inside, the teasing is driving you insane, daddy could ask you to bend over right in the middle of this bar and you wouldn't hesitate... you need daddy NOW!

You walk as best you can, your knees feeling weak and wobbling under every step... past one... two.. three... the excitement mixed with the vibrator make you lose it, you stand frozen cumming hard right there struggling to maintain any composure. The wave passes and you stubble your way to number 4, you pull back the curtain and see daddy lying on a deck and two other people, a couple of daddys friends laughing and having a good time. Daddy stands up walking towards you holding your ass he introduces you then directs you to the deck he was laying on.

You're visibly annoyed, you thought you were about to get dicked down, you even left your drink... but you do as your told still being stimulated with the vibrator laying next to daddy his arm around you. A joint being passed around, daddy gives it to you knowing full well how horny you get when you're high you take a few hits and continue with the conversation.

The conversation starts to veer towards remote controlled vibrators, daddy mentions to his friends that they should get one for their girls, he tells them you have one... your heart sinks... "but she fucking left it back home lol"... you laugh and say yep, I didn't want to give him an excuse to mess with my holiday. The conversation continues and they ask how it works, daddy flicks open the app and begins to show them.

Only daddy knows what's really happening the phone being passed from friend to friend, each one taking a turn moving the lever around... pushing it high, low.. pulsing... hammering... this is making you go insane, you're squeezing daddys arm so hard you break the skin but daddy doesn't flinch...

They continue playing around with it making you cum right there... daddy cheekily whispers in your ear... whore... the guys say they're going to go for a walk and daddy tells them you and i will stay here.

It takes mere seconds after they leave for you to have your hand up daddys shorts grabbing my cock and begging like a desperate whore for daddy to fill you... please daddy cum inside me, fill me up and leave me here leaking your juices...

Daddy holds you by your neck pushing you down on your back untieing your bottoms, you see daddy as he pulls his shorts down and his cock springs up at attention.... daddys hand holding you in place while his other guides his cock in..... your ass... daddy leaving the vibrator going and going to town on your ass... slapping you…

Making daddy bleed huh whore?... take this dick bitch... take it in your ass like the slut you are... right here on this beach, you don't give a fuck who sees you right now you just want me to take you and make you my fuck toy... you're fucking filthy, your cunt so wet your bottoms heavy with juices... daddy shoves them in your mouth now going deeper and harder in your ass...

Daddy biting along your neck, squezzing your tits and using them to grip while thrusting.. I'm going to nut... I'm going to drop another load for you slut…

Daddy takes the bottoms from your mouth and spreads them out on your stomach, daddy pulls out and begins to shoot rope after rope of cum all over them, you're licking your lips watching my cock spray cum all over you and the bottoms. Clean me up whore... you reach over and take some wipes, cleaning daddys cock from your ass trying your best to do it in a way that gets me hard again... I'm on to you whore.

Daddy lays down next to you while you put your bikini back on and lay next to daddy... like the greedy slut you are you continue to ask about what's next, when is the next session but daddy tells you to shut up and wait like a good girl, just enjoy the weather and the holiday for now….

Mmm you smell like a well used whore, daddy wrapping his arm around your neck and tickling your ear with his tongue... you're going to stay here slut and you're going to wait for daddy to text you an address. You will make your way there and when you get to the door you will undress and wait on your knees until the door opens.

I'm going to ruin you tonight slutty girl, I'm going to tease and torture you. You're body and mind will be totally daddys, in going to make you scream and beg but you won't want it to end.. if you can handle it be where i tell you when i tell you slut.

You look at me with a slight look of panic and excitement as your mind begins to race about what is going to happen... daddy slaps you playfully giving you a kiss and leaves

[glowinggator]

Current WIPS (Lackadaisy)

Sorted by character, updated semi-regularly. (Note: Some request notes are abridged here for space: Written works includes still include full details!)

Last Updated: 8 April 2024, 12:00am PST (oopsie) (♣���=Most recently updated categories)

Rocky Rickaby ♣️

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Headcanons Requested: Yes Request: rocky x gn!reader who frequents little daisy's cafe not knowing there's a speakeasy underneath it, only to find out and stop going there? i wanna see how rocky tries to get their love back.

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Headcanons Requested: Yes Request: romantic relationship headcanons w/ rocky? preferably with a male (he/him) reader? (A/N: HELL yeah brother. I've missed seeing you in my notes <3)

Untitled ♣️ Status: Finished & Queue'd! Type: Drabble; 327 Requested: Yes Request: Rocky x reader who's just as chaotic as him, when they get confortable, but when they aint they're just really shy and polite?

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request: Rocky/Reader, wherein Reader is a little too aware of the narrative.

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request Notes: Rocky/Reader, who is a really strong assassin. Akin to Yor Forger.

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Oneshot Requested: Yes Request Notes: bursts into readers shabby apartment in the middle of the night, clearly very hurt physically after a rum running gig. Rocky says he didn’t know where else to go and reader practically forces him to let her patch him up at stuff. After a while (and a lot of tension) reader finds out Rocky’s homeless and forces him (again) back to stay with her in her apartment. Sprinkle in some purring, affectionate head bumps, and tail twining.

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request Notes: rocky rickaby x reader celebrating their bday?

Temperate (Or, the 2 times you ran, and the 1 time you didn't. Rocky/Reader, Friends to Lovers, Light Angst at parts, ultimately Fluff.) Status: In Progress (30% complete, currently at 1.4k) Type: Oneshot Requested: Yes. Request Notes: Reader first denies his romantic feelings for Rocky, because of this reader is distant from Rocky, but then, either gradually, or due to some accident, reader still confesses to Rocky. Ends in fluff.

Codeswitch (Or, the Lackadaisy cast's reaction to the reader's colder, working alter-ego. Includes all members of main cast, sans Atlas and Asa Sweet) Status: In Progress (10% complete.) Type: Headcanons, may include drabble for some characters Requested: Yes Request Notes: See Above.

Untitled Status: Not Started Type: Headcanons Requested: Yes Request Notes: Rocky/Reader, Reader is very loving and caring towards him and also everyone else and is also very eccentric, theatrical and has a very maniacal laugh.

Double Sided Cloth Status: Not Started Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request Notes: Rocky/Reader, reader is nonverbal or doesn’t talk much, yet it is kinda social? Idk, basically someone whose more reserved yet is still rlly kind. (Bonus points if the reader is an artist like him!)

Nothing Money Can Buy Status: In Progress, 60% Complete, 1.3k. (Taking back burner until next Christmas due to overshoot (oops). Rocky/Reader, Kissing under the mistletoe.) Type: Oneshot Requested: No

Soranna Sorcha Status: In Progress, 40% Complete, 600. (Taking back burner until Rocky's next birthday due to overshoot (oops x2). Rocky/Reader, A kiss for each year of age, birthday fic. Type: Oneshot Requested: No

Mordecai Heller

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Requested: Yes Type: Undetermined Request: Mordecai Heller with a fem or gn s/o who runs their own business making clothes and costume designs for theatres?

Dorian "Zib" Zibowski

Nothing here! ...Send something in?

Sedgewick "Wick" Sable

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request Notes: Working class reader who never got the luxuries he has in her life

Ivy Pepper

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Headcanons Requested: Yes Request Notes: Can I get general relationship headcanons with Ivy Pepper dating a fem reader? (If not gn is ok!)

Calling her by her government name Status: Not Started Yet Type: Headcanons Requested: Yes

Serafine Savoy

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request Notes: can I get some stuff for snuggling with the crazy Creole gun lady? (I am down bad, please assist) (A/N: Real and True :pensive:)

Viktor Vasko

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request Notes: How would Viktor react on working with lackadaisy with his wife(reader)

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Undetermined Requested: Yes Request Notes: **VAGUE SPOILERS FOR COMIC** Viktor reacting to seeing his wife -- the reader -- again.

Untitled Status: Not Started Yet Type: Headcanons Requested: Yes Request Notes: Headcanon on how being in a relationship with Viktor would be.

Mitzi May

Calling her by her government name Status: Not Started Yet Type: Headcanons Requested: Yes

Wes Clyde

None, yet! ...Send something in?

Avery

Untitled Type: Undetermined, likely a drabble or oneshot Status: Not started yet. Requested: Yes Request: Avery (One of the pig farmers from Lackadaisy!!) x a male reader who is very well read? A smarty pants that though a farm would be a quaint calm place to be,,, And it turns out is not. A/N: Your brain is huge, and I LOVE this idea. MUAH

[mothfeather-of-riverclan]

Worldbuilding Tidbits: ThunderClan Territory

General description: ThunderClan calls the thick, rich forest in the southeast. Trees include alders, oaks, beechs, birchs, aspens, cedars, elms, maples, and sycamores. Undergrowth includes holly bushes, honeysuckles, laurels, dogwood, witch hazel, hemlocks, ferns, bracken, lilacs, dandelions, daffodils, wintergreens, boxwoods, peonies, thorns, vines, moss, poppies, and brambles. The canopy is fairly thick, but not so much that sunlight is blocked out, and streams that branch out from the river help moisturize the plants. Towards the thunderpath that cuts between ThunderClan and ShadowClan, the land becomes rocky and steep, as the road inclines from a mountain.

Camp: A shallow, sandy ravine that’s shaded by a thick canopy. The dens are made of cave in the camp walls, burrows, and bushes intertwined with brambles and vines

Common prey: Mice, voles, shrews, blackbirds, starlings, magpies, sparrows, robins, cardinals, bluejays, grackles, grouse, pheasants, doves, pigeons, woodpeckers

Rare prey: Turkeys, falcons, hawks, eagles, ducks, rabbits, moorhens, eggs

Common threats: Coyotes, falling branches, foxes (they usually only target lone apprentices or kits, but they become a lot more aggressive and desperate in the winter), badgers (usually only if you're stupid enough to bother them, but they also like to go after lone or inexperienced apprentices), adders at snakerocks, wild dogs

Landmarks:

The Owl Tree is a tall poplar with a hollow in the middle of the trunk. Generations of owls have lived there as it’s close to mouse nests, and warriors usually follow the current tenant to find easy prey.

The Sandy Hollow is a hollow in the land that’s filled with soft, sandy dirt. It’s used as a place for apprentices to practice battle moves since the dirt is soft enough to not hurt upon impacting it

The Tunnel is a tunnel below the thunderpath that ShadowClan uses to get to and from gatherings. ThunderClan doesn’t mind this as long as they just use the tunnel for that purpose, but there is some hostility over the herb that grows there, Milkweed. Since it’s rare to find and is very beneficial for nursing queens, there’s been quite a few border scraps over who gets the herbs

The Shaded Brook is a narrow stream that branches off from the river. It gains its name due to the amount of overhanging, ferns, bracken, and mullien growing here. Cats come to get a drink of water and druids come here to gather herbs.

Sunningrocks is a contested piece of territory between ThunderClan and RiverClan that’s placed right by the river on the edge of ThunderClan territory. It’s not only a good place to sun, but it’s a good place for mice and water voles to nest between the rocks, making it a good hunting spot. However, the main reason it’s so fought over is because of land rights.The patch of land that Sunningrocks rests on used to belong to RiverClan when it was an island, but slowly the river grew smaller, leaving the rocks on ThunderClan’s territory. And they’ve bickered and battled over it since

Adjacent to Sunningrocks are wide expanses of meadows. They don't have an official name, but they're a popular date spot due to the sheer amount of colorful wildflowers and the clear view of the sky

The Alder Grove a patch of the forest filled with, you guessed it, alders. The thick canopy provides plentiful shade and the leaf litter is very soft. Friend groups like to hang around here and it's not uncommon to see cats wrestling in the thick leaf carpet

Tallpines is the only place in the forest where pine trees are plentiful. Every three summers the tree-eaters cut down the trees and take them to the treecutplace, but between those periods, it’s a good spot for prey.

The Treecutplace is where the pines from Tallpines are brought to be cut up for twoleg use. It’s usually avoided due to being so close to twoleg areas

The Twolegplace is a small yet bustling town. Warriors rarely go anywhere near the border, let alone in the town. The town borders the forests with a tall fence.

Snakerocks is a pile of rocks that is much like sunningrocks, but the stones are much steeper and bigger. Many herbs like Dill, Goldenseal, Peppermint, and Echinacea grow here, but the rocks are also swarmed with adders. It’s best to keep younger apprentices from here, as they don’t know the danger yet.

The Great Sycamore is the tallest, oldest tree in the territory, and is used by apprentices to see if someone is chicken by daring the newest apprentices to climb to the very top of the branches.

The Abandoned Cabin is an old, run down log cabin that has been overgrown with moss, vines, and other plants, including a birch growing right in the center. It’s considered a sacred place by the ThunderClan druids as it’s a good place to grow herbs

The Thunderpath is a long, busy road that separates ThunderClan territory from ShadowClan. It’s considered very dangerous since it’s usually very busy, so most cats avoid it

[canidthrope]

coniferous forests are so ingrained to my very being that i don't think i could ever leave them. i love living in the middle of nowhere and being surrounded by the woods, they're home. i never feel more at peace than when I'm sitting in a quiet patch of woods or on a rocky lakeshore.

[ivoryminitower]

Echoes of Home: 29 - Steve ("regenerating")

Echoes of Home: FFXIV AU OC – WoLs on Earth

It's annoying not having the Eorzea gathering data in our journals.  We don't exactly need it in this world, but looking up where something was found in Eorzea would give us an idea of where we should look for it here.

Fortunately there's a couple good-sized FF14 wikis out there, so we can look stuff up any time we have internet.  Which isn't Middle of Nowhere, Oklahoma, so we need to do research before we go out.

(Random find on Reddit: "Final Fantasy 14 Surpasses 24 Million Players, Becomes Most Profitable Final Fantasy Game In the Series".  The mythic realm theory gains credence.)

I showed Tsu'na the sites as I looked up ash and elm.  Both are found in the Central Shroud, which is a mix of stuff...hills and cliffs and streams and lakes and swamp and chocobo meadow and a barren rocky patch with a cavern.  Nothing with that kind of variety around Wyatt, but northeast of Tulsa is near the edge of the Ozarks.  Maps I could find online suggest we might find all that there, minus the chocobos.

It was a bit cooler there.  Good for keeping each other warm in the tent.  Also not as taxing when we got down to the actual harvesting during the day.  It didn't take long to find nodes for ash, along with chanterelle, which is used to make potions.  The elm nodes weren't very far away, but instead of the tinolqa mistletoe we'd normally find with it, there was tulsa mistletoe.  That might not work for ether...but then, we don't have imp wing either.  Not counting on bat wing working as a substitute, but we can only try.

We harvested a goodly amount of both kinds of wood.  And since harvesting is a pretty mindless activity, it made for conversation.

"So how was your first night as a bouncer?"

"I think it went well.  I only threw one person.  The rest behaved."

"Cool.  Though they may need to learn to relax around you now.  Did you get to know them?"

"The only one I talked to was the one I threw.  He touched me more than I wanted."

"How much was that?"

"At all."

"Gotcha.  Yeah, a female bouncer may need a different dynamic."

"Is bouncing the best use of our skills, Husband?"

"Define 'best'.  If you mean what will bring in the most money, no.  We could do better with a fight club."

"What is a fight club?"

"Like an arena.  There's professional fight clubs and fighting championships, but the big-name ones would take ID, and we'd get a lot more publicity than we probably want right now.  But there's also private ones.  They range from bunch o' guys in a parking lot to some basement room somewhere.  Those aren't legal, which means they pay in cash."

"Who pays?"

"I think for the parking lot it's more of a duel...each fighter puts up his bet.  For the private rooms there'll be someone taking bets on both fighters and paying the winner out of the house winnings."

"What are the rules?"

"For private fights there might not be any.  That's why they're illegal."

She chopped for a while in silence as she considered this. "We are stronger than the people in this world."

"Far as I can tell."

"So this fighting should be easy."

"If anything, it might be hard to not kill them by accident."

"Not killing them is a rule?"

"Not necessarily in the illegal ones.  Even in the legal ones it happens sometimes.  But we should probably try not to."

"Losers get nothing?"

"In the legal ones both fighters get something, and I think the winner gets a bonus.  Not sure about the illegal ones."

"It must be awkward coming back for one's pay after being sent home."

"Sent home?"

"Regenerating at their home point."

I stopped chopping.  Right.  We hadn't had this conversation yet.  We really should have.

"Um.  Earth people don't regenerate."

She stopped chopping.

"...What?"

"Earth people don't regenerate.  They don't have home points."

She stared at me. "What happens when they die?"

"They're dead.  They're gone."

"They return to the aether?"

"I suppose that's possible."

"You do not know?"

"Different religions claim different things.  We don't...have...I am not aware of there being an actual expert on the subject."

"What about NPCs?"

"There are no NPCs."

"No NPCs?  At all?"

"No.  Any person you see is a unique individual, with a name and parents and everything.  Who, if they die, will stay dead."

The next question was obvious.  She didn't want to ask it.  For that matter, neither did I.  It took her a moment to make herself do so.

"What about us?"

"Well, we have a home point, so we will hopefully regenerate there."

"Hopefully."

"Yes."

"You do not know."

"No."

Her eyes lost focus.  She sat down slowly on the leaf-covered ground.  She stared at the hatchet in her hands as if she had no idea what it was.

I holstered my hatchet and sat down beside her.  I put my arm around her shoulders.  She didn't move.

In time she quietly asked, "How long have you known this?"

"People here tend to learn about death kind of young.  They're usually told about what their parents' religion says.  People generally try not to think about it too much."

"You thought about it in Eorzea, did you not?  You were so afraid at first, so careful.  Until the first time you died.  Then you were...I thought you were reckless."

"I was kinda blown away by coming back from death."

She raised her eyes to look at me. "But things are different now.  We are Earth people now."

"I don't think we really are.  You know how fast we heal...Earth people don't heal that fast.  And we can Return.  And we have our skills and our inventory.  I don't think we're normal Earth people."

"But you do not know."

"No.  I don't know."

"Why did you not tell me sooner?"

"Honestly, I didn't think about it.  Earth people try not to think about death."

"I could have lost you.  I could still lose you."

I brushed my lips against her hair. "And I could lose you."

We sat quietly for a while, heads together.  There was a pit in my stomach that I could not decide was new or not...it might have been a background worry I'd had for a while, especially the first time I saw Tsu'na use Return.  As for her, she might never have had to think about death seriously before now, certainly not after her first attunement.

After a bit she reached up toward her chest and grasped something.  She held out her hand in front of us, showing a glowing orange crystal.  "I still have Hydaelyn's gift, Husband.  Do you?"

I'd forgotten about it.  It's not in my inventory.  I hardly ever thought of it except when the story demanded it.  I didn't know where it was, if I still had it.  But I followed her example, raised a hand to my chest and tried to grab something that wasn't there...and it was.  A matching crystal.

"I think we will be all right."

"Willing to believe that.  But let's not try to find out too soon, okay?"

She nestled against me. "What would you do if you lost me?"

"I'd want to burn the world."

"You would make Earth my funeral pyre?"

"Yeah.  And if that wasn't enough I'd find another world and burn it too."

She sighed. "If I lost you, I would want to kill anyone who dared to be more happy than me."

"Tears and lamentations for all?"

"Yes.  I would raise an army of the sad."

"For the sake of the world, let's try not to die."

"Let us drink to that."  She produced a bottle of cider. "I got these after bouncing.  They stay cold in inventory."

"Cool.  Did you bring an opener?"

She started laughing.  Softly at first, then harder.  I held her as she laughed way past the point of it being funny.  When the laughter subsided I released her, switched to Paladin, and used the edge of a gauntlet scale to peel back the bottle cap.

"That is clever.  I shall remember that."

"Or you can pack an opener."

"I will pack an opener."  She took a long sip and handed the bottle to me.  Her eyes wandered over the woods around us. "Do we have enough wood?  I think I would like to return to the tent."

We spent a long time simply clinging to each other.  The crystal was reassuring; if we still had that piece of Eorzea, we probably had the regeneration piece too.  But I still never want to lose her, and I didn't want to be even an inch away from her right then.

[ursbearhug]

Not to be dramatique but the fact that Blizzard charges money for their piece of shit game that doesn't fucking run is beyond appaling.

You look at Path of Exile and you know it will run junkily sometimes but it's fine because you didn't actually pay to play the game. It is understandable to have a game that runs not-great because final product is completely free to play and they're not charging you to memory leak your computer into oblivion.

Now let's look at rocky story of D4. They release server testing with a game that has 'allegedly' damaged few computers and then just sent you little 'oopsie, here is a patch to not kill your computer, sorry bout that'. Then they release 2 day beta testing, which like... What the fuck do you think you're gonna beta test in 2 days? Like, after this 'testing', game releases and jumping few seasons forward to right now, almost every single system implemented got completely overhauled or removed because not only did it not meet the expectations it was also either busted or worthless or annoying. To me, this screams that game had like Sims4 wannabe background or some shit because you're not telling me this shit has been even surface deep tested by anybody. It's not like the game had any substantial lifespan, it's been what? A year? No self respecting game would revamp every single aspect of it after one year had it been even remotely tested by any competent person with at least two hands, pair of eyes, brain and a heart.

And my most important gripe which is the playability on 'lower spec pcs' which was huge selling point. Look, my machine is not the titan slayer by any strech of imagination but I have run other games despite my lacking specs, on higher settings and less of a shitshow powerpoint presentation. This is not only embarrassing, considering that D4 is not exactly blowing gaming world with its graphical fidelity or whatever the fuck, but it is really just insulting. And I am beyond certain that it is something to do with open world that this game adapted, after that boom of whatever Zelda game back in the day, and nobody fucking asked for. I am sure that this game just runs YandereSimulator-esque 14 thousand lines of worthless and abundant code on every frame and else-if's its way to hell and that is the sole reason why my memory cannot handle it. Lower specs my ass, I don't even get to enjoy this on medium settings and shadows enabled, you have to be pulling my fucking leg.

The real kicker? Path of Exile one, which is 2013 title, in places looks better, can run very janky sometimes, has significantly more options for creative minds to play and costs you exactly 0 american dollars or euros. Meanwhile, game that has been rushed as fuck, *in my opinion*, is priced at 35 euros (and has fucking dog shit exchange rates, like, gw2 is miles kinder to you and your wallet if you have the audacity to not earn euros) and is a game that doesn't fucking run. Seems like a real steal! Yeah, being robbed blind during the day in the middle of extremely crowded street. I'd be less insulted if they just spat in my face.

Oh, to make it even ronchier, it worked... Well, I'm not gonna say fine, but at the very fucking least, I could have made my way to the dungeon? Where it would lag only a little bit. And stutter. And kick me out after I finished. But yeah it quote on quote worked till the newest patch, in which, they felt audacious enough to demand more money for the pleasure of; 'I cannot even play the fucking game'. As if the initial 35 euros was even remotly good investment, considering, that your game simply gave up on me and told me to go fuck myself. Great, thanks.

[just---keep---simming]

Pancakes - Winter 2

Welcome back to the Pancakes household, where we find a fairly typical scene - the little family of three at the dining table, Adrienne doing her homework, Eliza playing on her phone, and Bob staring into the middle distance and contemplating the pleasing domestic peace of his life.

Things continue to be really good for Bob and Eliza. They're affectionate with each other and spending more time together. Despite the rocky patch Eliza in particular went through, I'm happy these two managed to make it work.

They're not the only ones enjoying a pretty great relationship at the moment, either. Adrienne and Axel head out to the city on the Sunday afternoon for the flea market, where they enjoy each other's company and a spirited game of basketball.

The next morning, bright and early, Adrienne is off to her job as a barista before school.

They have a short day at Adrienne's high school this week, with just one morning class to go to.

Because all the students are off to a career day for the afternoon! Adrienne is deeply unimpressed by both the detective and medical display (the latter was being run by Axel's dad, John!) - she's after something decidedly better paid. I'm thinking law.

Meanwhile, Eliza's novel writing life continues apace. She writes romance novels exclusively, each one named after a romantic comedy I've enjoyed. I think she might be writing Love Actually here.

When Peaches invites her over for an afternoon catch up, though, she's happy to put the pen away and head over to Del Sol Valley.

It's always a treat to see and play with Hendrix, given Eliza's toddler-raising days are behind her.

Before long, the winter weather has set in properly in Willow Creek, and the Pancakes have decorated for Winterfest.

Typically wholesome family time followed: the three Pancakes got started in the morning by decorating the tree together.

Followed by swapping gifts...

And a meal, cooked by Bob and appreciated enthusiastically by his daughter and wife. Dear Bob never bothered to get out of his dressing gown all day!

The week rolled on, and Eliza made an effort to spend time with her daughter, who was growing up so fast it was making everyone's heads reel.

Bob, in need of some alone time, headed out to Sulani for an evening of fishing, followed by a peaceful, solo meal at one of the island restaurants. Seafood, of course.

Then he enjoyed a rather warm welcome home from Eliza on his return!

Friday rolled around quickly, with Friday morning finding Adrienne at school early, preparing diligently for the week's exams.

She aced them again, naturally. I think she should have some success when it comes to applying for scholarships.

We're not quite there yet, though. A family trip to Mt Komerabi for a festival kicks of the weekend for the Pancakes.

Bob joins Eliza and Adrienne there after work, where he's now a star chef.

Finally, the winter ends with the New Year celebration, for which Eliza naturally decorates the house in silver and gold. The snow is still thick on the ground as the winter draws to a close.

Adrienne heads out for an early jog to make the most of the clear, cold, stunning morning.

Then, she heads out to the Bluffs in Windenberg with Axel, for their only date for this season. It's a lot of fun, and even includes some "messing around". I have teen pregnancy enabled, but of course Adrienne is meticulously prepared, and will be having no surprise unplanned babies before crushing her university degree.

The Pancakes finish the winter with toasts to a new year once Adrienne gets home from her date.

And that brings us to the end of the winter, and the second "year", for the Pancakes. How nice to have it both open and close with family bliss for this lovely trio!

[writerleo86]

Terravenger - Season 5: Part Two - The Pugioh City Survival Arc - Episode 467 (Do Not Copy)

    Marching toward the large river of burning lava at the southern part of the Mafic Isle were the united armies led by both Devin Elken and Silvan Justinian. And joining them were the soldiers from both Midas City and South Height City.

    The captain Victoria Sidney led her troops that consisted of the students Paige McCormack, Jinx, Keira Fakinos, Ronnie Miller, Gale Reed, and Iris Thomas.

    The armies continued traveling through the rocky grounds until they spotted another army of soldiers marching toward them.

    But this army was led by a sinister individual that appeared as a beautiful woman with fine skin and brown eyes. She had a slender body that was also shaped as an hourglass. The front part of her long hair was purple as the back was colored black. She had on black eyeliner and purple lipstick. She wore a leotard that was made of black leather along with long leggings that were skin-tight. The middle of her top had revealed both the center of her chest and her belly button. She also had on a pair of short black boots that had high heels. And a small black patch remained at the bottom of her revealed chest that had a white skull at the center.

    Walking by her right side was the younger man called Kalree. He had light skin and cold brown eyes. He had a tall and slender body along with long brown hair that was tied in a low pony-tail. He also had a fine mustache and a small fuzz at the bottom of his lower lip. He wore a pale-blue uniform with golden accents. He had a pale-yellow pad on the top of each shoulder along with a small red jewel on the middle of the pad. He also had on a thick black belt, long black boots, and fingerless white gloves. And he had two white symbols on the front left side of his top.

    Walking with him was the slender man called Tobin who looked like a young woman. He had pale skin and pale-violet eyes. And he had no hair on his head. He wore a purple blouse that revealed both his right shoulder and the bottom part of his chest. He had on a pair of meshed leggings that were covered by a black shirt that lowered to his ankles. He wore a pair of short black boots. Placed on the middle of his chest was a golden-lined black rectangular pendant which had a white skull. And he wore a long meshed sleeve that covered his left wrist.

    At the other side of the woman was the tall man called Cyan who had dark skin, black eyes, puffy dark hair, and a fine beard. And placed on the bottom of his neck was a tattoo that displayed three black-lined triangles. He wore a pair of black-leathered pants and short black boots. He also had on fingerless gloves that were also made of black leather. And he had on an opened teal coat that had both a long collar and a pair of long sleeves.

    The other who remained behind Cyan was the old man called Shade. He had lighter skin and short light-gray hair. He had on a pair of silver glasses with large black lenses. And around his left lens was a silver crescent-moon symbol. He wore a collared black shirt with a long dark-purple necktie. He had on a pair of black dress-pants and zipped-up black shoes. And he wore an opened light-purple dress-coat.

    Jinx reported "We've got company!"   

    The army of the villainous soldiers stood across form them as the cocky Cyan informed his team "They're here at last."

    Then he noticed Victoria Sidney standing among the improving army and replied "We'll have our rematch soon enough, Child of the Sidney family."

    The sinister woman gave a grin and ordered in a soft and seductive voice "Prepare for battle!"

Terravenger -- Season 5: Part Two -- Episode 467:  The Survival Arc -- Greetings from the Kiels Armed Forces

    At another area of the Mafic Isle, the two victims -- Hope and Duo -- had landed on a large cloud which saved them from falling into the river of the burning lava. The pair soon faced forward and found someone floating from the sky.

    The relieved Duo gave out a large smile and asked "Is that you, Ronan?"

    Their rescuer was revealed as the student from the Kiels Armed Forces named Ronan Kelly.

    As the pair slowly rose to their feet, Ronan flew toward them with a soft smile.

    "Duo!" He greeted.

    Duo soon gave a quick laugh and implied "It seems Kiels came to help us too!"

    The cloud that had its two passengers slowly floated down until it reached a large cliff below. Once Hope and Duo both pounced onto the cliff, the cloud vanished into thin air. And Ronan had joined them.

    "Take this path," directed Ronan. "It will take you out of this area. And there you will meet up with your lieutenant."

    "What?" questioned Duo. "The L.T. is here?"

    Ronan shook his head and revealed "Lord Elken has come with everyone to rescue you two. We head out quickly."

    And Hope cried "Devin should not have come! These people! They have planned to lure Devin to me in order to kill him."

    "But Hope!"

    The fearful woman turned to Duo who told her "He came to save ya. That's how much Elken loves ya. He's not gonna let those bastards take him out. Not when yer in danger."

    Hope finally gave a soft smile as Duo said more.

    "I know Elken's gonna do what he can to see you again. So, let's just go and find him. Elken's gonna be glad when he sees that yer safe."

    A happy Hope shook her head and responded "Then let us search for Devin. And I would like you to assist me, Duo."

    Duo shook his head and answered "Obviously I will."

    A familiar male voice called out "Do you really think any of you will ever leave this place?"

    The young trio quickly faced the other side. They spotted a newcomer walking toward them.

    A frightened Hope revealed "That man... He was the one who stole me away from Pugioh."

    The newcomer called Dime stood before the trio with a sinister smile on his face. And Hope thought to herself.

Hope's thoughts:

At the bottom of the tall tower in the city Pugioh, the fearful Hope placed her hands on his shoulders as her protector Jinx aimed one of his revolver guns with his left hand at his target who turned out to be the agent Dime.

The confident Dime spread his arms away and told the clown "Go ahead. I call your bluff. Take a shot."

Once the villain walked toward the guarded pair, Jinx shot one bullet from his gun to the head of the villain. But the bullet somehow blew past Dime as he continued to stand completely still.

    After that, Hope stood behind the attentive Duo who remained in his battle stance.

    "You must be weary of him," Hope warned her friend.

    "This guy?" questioned Duo. "He's the one that kidnapped you?"

    Hope shook her head and answered "Yes, it was him. But you must not be careless. This man is not like the others you have faced. He... He is a unique individual."

Hope's thoughts:

At the bottom of the tower, another of the teenage soldiers named Iris Thomas was captured by the arms of the strange man called Tobin.

The fearful Hope continued to watch as the calm Dime ordered "Just surrender yourself. And Tobin will release the girl."

Hope quickly took off her long black coat and rose her fists as she looked at both Tobin and Dime.

"Are you raising your fists at us?" asked Dime.

The charming man soon appeared to the girl. Hope tried to defend herself by striking with a high Right Elbow. But Dime caught her elbow using his right hand. Then he wrapped the struggling girl's arm behind her with his right hand. He gave a simple tap to the left side of her neck using the two fingers from his left hand. And Hope was somehow knocked unconscious.

    Then Hope informed Duo "It is as if he can control Time itself. The man is very crafty. You must not underestimate him."

    And Ronan told his friend "Duo. Take the girl and go. I'll give you some time."

    "Wait, Ronan!" called Duo. "That guy's gotta be tougher than the agents we last fought."

    Ronan stared at the calm villain with determination as he replied "I can take this guy. Just get out of this place."

    After thinking to himself, Duo faced forward and shook his head.

    "Fine," He answered. "I'll let you deal wit' that punk. But be careful."

    "Don't worry about me," Ronan told him. "Just leave with the girl. And take her directly to Devin Elken. That is the new mission that Lieutenant Sidney has given you."

    "You really talked to the L.T.?" cried Duo.

    Ronan reported "Patricius was asked by your commander to help save Pugioh from these people."

    And Ronan commented "My brother is weak for being too trusting."

    Duo shook his head once again and responded "Well, you're strong. I shouldn't be worried then."

    Ronan turned to him and replied "I'll be fine. I'll join up with you soon enough. And we'll catch up."

    After shaking his head, Dime stepped to the right side of a passageway.

    "I'll let you two pass," He told Duo. "But Mr. Goran will catch up with you soon enough."

    Then he informed Ronan "How dare you interfere with the businesses of our great lord. You will pay for this. And you will with your own life."

    "Go now!" Ronan yelled to his friend.

    So, Duo quickly grabbed Hope's left hand with his right hand. And the young soldier began running through the passageway as Hope hurried with him.

    Once he knew that the pair were away from them, Ronan finally faced his opponent as he placed his left palm forward while his right fist remained in front of his chest.

    And Dime told his enemy "I am ready when you are."

    First, Ronan threw a small ball of red energy from his left palm.

    "Pello!" He called.

    A calm Dime waited until the projectile blew past him as he stood completely still.

    A shocked Ronan calmly cried "What was that? Did I miss?"

    Second, he placed both his hands on the rocky ground.

    "Aer ad Terramspicis!" He called.

    The air around Ronan had formed into a barrage of spikes that were made of hard stone. The spikes flew directly toward him as Dime continued to watch in a carefree manner. And every projectile had flown past him as if he was thin air.

    Next, Ronan was still lowered as three lines of golden lightning traveled through the ground toward his enemy.

    "Caeli ad Fulgar Itinerantur!" He called.

    And the lightning past through Dime as he stood completely still.

    After the last belt of lightning traveled past him, Dime gave a soft smile as a questioning Ronan stood up.

    "He didn't move an inch," thought Ronan. "Yet my attacks went past him. But how?"

    More small spikes made of rock appeared floating around him as Ronan stared at his enemy with determination.

    "None of my attacks have made even a dent on you," He replied calmly. "How was that possible?"

    "You're wondering why neither of your attacks have penetrated me?" questioned Dime.

    He gave a quick laugh as the floating spikes fell.

    And Dime responded "It is only one of my greatest abilities. I like to think of this as a special gift. I was actually born with this out of all."

    "Your special ability?" implied Ronan.

    "Blendehoppe," Dime told him. "This ability enable me to move freely through the recesses of Time, but for only mere seconds."

    Then Ronan stood straight and reported "You can skip through time only for a short time. That is why you were able to evade my attacks. You seemed to stay at the same place. But in reality, you used that ability to escape easily."

    "Now you understand," claimed Dime. "You know that you are unable to lay even a finger on me."

    After that, Ronan lowered his hand and gave a soft smile.

    "You do see that you are at a disadvantage?" implied Dime. "You are defenseless. You have no idea how to counter against me. I can just skip through time and attack you without leaving a trace."

    The evil man vanished into thin air. And his opponent looked forward as he continued to smile. Dime found himself in another plane which had Ronan stand before him as if he was frozen completely.

    A carefree Dime walked freely toward his enemy as he said "Now to make quick work of you."

    Suddenly, a large wave of golden electricity blew to him. Dime was pushed toward the opening of the passageway. And the fallen villain returned to the plane where Ronan was.

    Ronan walked a few steps toward him and asked "Did you get all that?"

    Finally, someone appeared by the young soldier's right side from a quick flash.

    Dime slowly rose as he noticed the other individual beside Ronan.

    "But how?" He cried.

    The newcomer was the noble youth called Cheetah. Along with the black markings painted on his face, he wore an outfit consisting of a sleeveless black top. On the lower side of his top was synthetic fur that resembled a cheetah's surrounded by a thick red design. He had on legless black bottoms along with see-through leggings. He also had black pads surrounding his elbows and knees. He had long black pads protecting his ankles and a pair of fingerless black gloves. And his MAF badge was placed on the left side of his chest.

    Beside him was the younger Denny Ravestone. He wore a shirt consisting of bright pink at the top while light-gray remained on the waist area. He had a short light-gray sleeve covering his right shoulder with the golden Ravenstone symbol. Bright pink had covered his left sleeve with a white cloud around the middle. And a golden bracelet covered the bottom of his left sleeve. He had a fingerless pink glove covering his right hand with a bright-pink protector around his forearm. And he had another pink glove covering his left hand. He alo had black pants with a thick white belt and black shoes. On certain parts of his pants were petals of different colors. He had a dark-pink color placed on the center of each shoe. And his MAF badge was placed on a buckle at the center of his belt.

    Dime discovered a globe of fiery wind quickly faded from the left hand of the second soldier, Denny.

    "It was you who attacked me?" questioned Dime. "But how did that happened?"

    "You like that, huh?" responded Denny. "That was a good combo!"

    A courageous Cheetah placed his right fist in left hand as he gave a grin.

    And he told the enemy "You ain't da only one dat can ride through Time!"

    Ronan informed Dime "We planned it all. We wanted to learn about what you could do. So, I struck first while my partners watched and gathered the information we needed."

    Cheetah giggled and replied "I'm pretty fast. Runnin' to places wit' so much speed's no worries, Mate."

    "And I'm the one that struck you," added Denny. "With Cheetah's help of course."

    Then Denny reported to Ronan "The others already went on ahead."

    Ronan shook his head and replied "Fair enough. Now to deal with this guy."

    Suddenly, Dime snapped the fingers from his right hand while giving out a vicious grin. The color of the entire area became blue. And both Ronan along with Denny began moving as slow as molasses.

    Dime soon walked toward them with sinister intentions.

    "Now to kill you all," whispered the villain.

    And the villain stopped with fear in his eyes. He spotted the youth Cheetah standing before.

    Cheetah gave a funny wave using his right hand as he smiled at the opponent.

    "Ya really gonna try dis one, Mate?" He asked.

    Next, golden lightning gathered around his body as Cheetah continued to stare at the crazed Dime with a big smile. Dime tried to attack by giving out a thrusting Right Punch. But Cheetah spun as quick as he could which summoned a tornado of wind that rose to the sky.

    "Rising Whirlwind!" He yelled.

    The wind rose the body of the enemy above as the speed of the world returned to normal. As soon as he stopped spinning around, Cheetah appeared before the falling Dime from a quick flash.

    "I will get you!" yelled Dime.

    "Yer really tryin', huh?" questioned Cheetah.

    After that, the determined youth tackled his enemy into the rocky ground.

    Then Cheetah blew out a barrage of quick punches to his head using both his fists until Dime fell unconscious.

    Cheetah finally lowered his fists and reported "And dat's a win for us!"

    Ronan shook his head and responded "Let us head out. We still have a lot to do."

[xoteajays]

I know Dan, Tettsu and Chiharu want have a girlfriend. They are trying to impress women in any way they can... But they are so creepy about how they're trying to impress women. Mostly Dan. But then Chiharu's someone who can't the hint that a woman isn't interested in him at all after she repeatedly told him she's not interested in him. DTC movie.

Correction! Cobra, Rocky and Noboru. Noboru protects women too.. I see Rocky secretly trying to stealing Noboru away from Cobra quite a few times. And, if he can't, they're still friends from different gangs.



When it comes to friends from other gangs.. Obviously every SWORD leader somehow getting along. Rocky could definitely befriend lots of Sannoh guys, especially Cobra and Noboru. Kizzy would actually be a happy girl meeting new girls. Not that she doesn't like the guys at the clubs, but it would be nice talking to someone new from time to time. Most of Sannoh and Oya are willing to before everyone who things so many things in common with them. I imagine a lot of new friendships happening with a lot of characters from every gang. Like you said, I'm always thinking about how Cobra would get along with the Amamiya brothers (especially Hiroto). Masaki actually needs to spend time with men his own age like Kohaku, Tsukumo, and whoever else too.

~

That's how I am. I hate my name. At least my first and middle names.. My name is so plain to me. I don't know if it is considered popular but I know a fair amount of people have the same name, maybe with a lot of different ways the name is spelled. So I prefer nicknames, alias and even other names. I've always wanted to change my name, but didn't.

So I have the same reason on why I prefer naming characters unusual names. Names, nicknames, aliases. I think many people are like that... Hating their names so much that they want to give unusual names to make their character stand out name. Or just because they hate their names. But there's many reasons why I like unusual names though.

~

She would have complained about having to sew Murayama's clothes after every fight. Because fights too much. But yes! He'll always go to her after a fight to get his clothes sewn back together, she'd complain that it would be easier to buy new clothes and he'd complain that was his favorite shirt which makes her sewing his shirt up for that reason.

I might be able to see her sewing the clothing for Rascals, like a lot of the smaller tears. Maybe. But even if she doesn't make the clothes for White Rascals, there's a chance she could be able to draw designs for new clothes. But yes for this too. Whether or not she patches up their clothes or even designs for clothes, they will find a way to discuss the new outfits - new fashions and fashion designs. So there's that.

That is also why I sent closeup pictures of Rocky's clothes. Because a lot of their clothing is white, you probably wouldn't have been able to see the designs up close. Like the white jacket, red gloves and cane.

And Rude Boys would somehow find exclusively rare, or vintage, and whatever varieties she would want for patches. And obviously since a lot of the Rude Boys just wear whatever clothing they can find, she or Lara do their best to make their clothing comfortable for them.

I don't know how long Strawberry Girls have been around in town, but I really do know just about every mother was in Strawberry Girls. At least you do know why none of the mothers complain about them being in gangs, because they actually were also in gangs at their age.

But I want to slap the boys of Sannoh for just wearing street clothes... Like where is the fun in that? I get individuality. But the White Rascals still have their individuality (for the most part) with their fashion. But I see the Sannoh boys, and think, "That's boring." Where's their fashion. They need something else besides that. Cobra, Yamato, and Noboru's excused because they wear leather jackets from time to time though.



Yes! That always annoyed me. Like... I know Sarah was also a child of an abuse family, her father abused her mother in front of her, so I can respect that she learned how to fight to protect herself from any men who would do her harm. The White Rascals wouldn't taken her in too. But to always go after the men who wouldn't want to hurt women is a cheating move in my opinion. A low blow move. And Kizzy would help too, since she isn't afraid to fight women her (at least during the time her and Kaito were in Doubt). So two women against one woman.

That's what I was thinking.. Hyuga has a hands on his approach when violent situations are involved. He rarely seems like the type of man in these situations to use weapons unless absolutely necessary like if he was in critical danger somehow. But, even then, rarely any weapons.

And for Kato. Since he was also a part of Kuryu too, I was always very curious what type of person he was. He seems like he can fight, when he does get involved with fighting anyone. But what else though.



Miho was the closest female character I could think of in the series to have a princes saving the princess moment. Even if she is only in just a few scenes. But that deleted scene of Kizzy and Miho talking in one of the backrooms, Kizzy asking every question she can about Cobra.



Well.. Some tropes can count as archetypes? Like Ice Queen, Ice King or Jerk With A Heart Of Gold. Some tropes are similar to archetypes. But that site definitely has every archetype you can think of when the characters are created, or create character based on that archetypes. If you decide to use archetypes.



I might have brought this up to you? Maybe. But I can not remember.. I can't remember at the moment if I did mention if before. But when it comes to mental disorders, neurological disorders, whatever the term is. Asperger's Syndrome is one of my conditions. So I'm a moderately autistic person, I'd have mild to moderate autism based on the scales that are used. And I do have many other disorders too. So I would just like to give some of my mannerisms to her caused by disorders which is me basically giving my character any conditions I have. Because I'd rarely seen well written disabled characters (with the exception of the few I did enjoy), regardless of physical and mental conditions, so I will probably do that for my characters. At least for the main character. But, in general, I always find it difficult to see well written characters with any disabilities and disorders. Like the neurodivergent disorders.

When it comes to her leg. Maybe a fire? Like her house was burned, a piece of debris - like sharp debris - cuts off her leg. Or train accident. Or I don't know. Part of me thinks using car accident is just too much, just because of how many car accidents there are in this universe.

She can entertain some people, especially the children, in Nameless City with her dancing. Or maybe someone accidently watches her in a private moment, dancing to herself or even practicing the poses. If she still dances. Even if she's only practicing basic ballet movements.



With the exception of a few characters. Like.. I remember the faces of the people in Kuryu, but I don't remember any of their names though.

Either way! Martial arts and assassination are always very interesting ways for a character to be introduced. Don't know if my characters in H&L are fighters though. I'm still thinking of possible outcomes for all of them. So I don't know about who can do this, or who can't do that.

~

Looking Cool is still an aesthetic look. But the grilles really actually do look intimidating in some ways, especially when you see his teeth any time in the club. Especially the scenes from the show when they have been introduced in the show. And the white.. White is the color that is about to represent purity, women should be pure from the dangers of the world (from abuse) even if the Rascals are the ones who abused a lot of the abusers. That's the concept of them wearing white. But I do always think about the ramen commercial though, where Rocky ends up spilling food on his white clothes. That is why I barely wear white.





Any situation involving Rocky's handcuffs will always be a new funny situation to talk about with everyone. Many interesting stories can be said to people, some people might not believe it, but the stories really have given people a laugh. Especially if they witness these incidents.



Yes! A woman who prefers the action, horror and thriller genres rather than any other genre. Rocky may actually watch lots of action movies if the theme is interesting enough. He might watch thriller movies but only if women weren't harmed in the movie so that genre is just really a maybe. And, horror, he hates the horror genre. Not that's scared like that, nothing scares Rocky. But he gets angry over this mistreatment towards women in horror and even some thriller movies. Oh! Rocky is going to hate Mask Girl if he watches that with his girlfriend, a series where female characters are always mistreated by men. He'd hate it.

So you'd have to compromise. One of girlfriend's movies and shows, than one of Rocky's movies and shows. Depending on what you have decided to watch that night. But you always have to compromise this between the two of you (which is definitely my headcanon for Rocky, maybe our headcanon now because you can see that happening too).

Actually... I could even imagine Rocky being into watching shows and movies with strong female characters. Like actual strong characters - whether the women know how to fight, outsmart, those characters in a way. I don't know why. But I can see him enjoying those characters.



Yes! Kizzy's always the one encouraging bad behavior in Rascals. Like if someone did something bad, just assume Kizzy's the one who even encouraged that person to do it. Automatically assume her. And, Koo, he definitely has a high alcohol tolerance despite not drinking at work though. But I actually can see this happening with the Rascals too.

I feel like many of these characters (in general) have stamina. But just with way Murayama's personality is, he definitely has a lot of stamina. Murayama's too needy, so clingy. He's worse than a child's clinginess. But yes... He's handsy, if his partner enjoys someone who is handsy in a more physically affectionate way. And physically intimate way too.

I might have to rewatch The Worst crossover movies too. I have seen those movies, but I feel like I watched the original timeline more than the spinoffs. But I have watched those movies. Anyway. I can imagine that there are people willing to help Murayama study for his license in any way he needs it, but I also imagine Murayama only wanting to the help coming from Cobra. Because it's Cobra. But, Cobra does go with Murayama to pick out motorcycles, because he likes looking at bikes.

Because Orange (the real person) has been posting a lot of pictures and videos on social media with her and her baby, which really made me curious about how Cobra might be as a father. And also if I should make him a father by the end of the story, like an epilogue for Orange and Cobra. I'm not saying yes about this, but I'm not saying no either. I'm thinking it might be a maybe for their characters at the moment.

Exactly! I thought that to someone before. That is how I see his whole relationship with his family, if he has children with his wife (or partner in general). If Rocky had a son, he'd definitely raise to be a gentleman in every way. To treat girls right, to protect them, to respect them and to care for them like a real man should. And if Rocky had a daughter, I imagine his wife and daughter being the most pampered women ever in this universe. A daddy's little girl. Whether he has a son or daughter in his life, or even both, the man knows how to spoil his family in a lot of ways - especially his wife and daughter. Imagine Rocky would even get stuck secretly playing dress up with his daughter, the makeovers, and then his friends also taking pictures for blackmail against Rocky.

I can see that happening with Takeshi as a father, and maybe with so many other physical type characters who seem sporty enough too.

And Murayama. Despite being a father, he acts more like a sibling for his children or even more like a friend instead of a parent. Depending on how you see it, Murayama's a horrible influence on his children.

But! Regardless if these gangsters have sons or daughters. Imagine if they're children were being bullied. And they see these gangsters and bikers, however they'd appear to others, walk up to the kids who were bullying their children. Or went to talk with their parents about it. But, for some of these parents, I can also see them teaching their children to fight too. So I can see any and every outcome happening with this.

~

Rocky in the ramen commercial, my first thought was, "So that's how Rocky would dress in went to Hawaii." Or any tropical island for a long vacation. And Rocky spilling food on his white clothes. That's canon.

They're just friends eating ramen. Now we know why they always eat cupped ramen throughout the whole franchise. They were paid to? Is what I got out of it. Like a free advertisement for ramen companies.

Oh! That scene. I mentioned that before. That was the scene Koo just found out Kizzy is trans, so Koo was trying to look out of curiosity but was caught looking by Kizzy. Which is why she made those gestures. I think she was tempted to maim him? That's how I took that scene in the show. But, either way, their reactions were so funny not to notice.

~

I don't know if I ever said this before. Maybe? I don't know. But.. If I've ever said or did anything to ever make you uncomfortable, just let me know. Because sometimes I never what lines I might have crossed for some people. Since I know everyone always acts or reacts differently.

i wanna know wtf happened with tettsu and nikka. she was this whole side story of being tettsu’s love interest and then it just got dropped. wasn’t even mentioned in dtc! tettsu, where’s your girlfriend?! i’ll be honest, i’m really not a fan of dan. kinda the worst sannoh guy.

let kizzy hang out with naomi and lala! i also want the rude boys trying to teach murayama to protect his head and back because they’ve seen him just throwing his body around with no care in the world and ‘dude that is so bad for you wtf’. tho the daruma guys do the same too (look at both murayama and the daruma guys’ scenes in end of sky. no regard for their bodies). the rude boys are so stressed. i think yu and murayama would be friends actually, they’re the same kind of high energy, screaming excitability.

i’d like to see rocky and hyuga interact in a more casual scene too, probably bickering about their respective clubs, since club heaven and the daruma place are total opposites.

~

my name is super popular for my age group, it was in like the top 30 girl names for my state. i knew at least 4 other people with the exact same spelling on my name through 12 years of schooling (boys and girls bc my name’s unisex). i’m really not a fan of my name because of it’s popularity - it’s also a very famous singer’s name - hence using aliases online, though they usually use the same first initial.

unusual names are just fun! like why would i not give my oc a cool name?

~

i could see her doing it for the white rascals’ clothing pieces that are more important, things that aren’t each to just replace. like small tears or torn sleeves or buttons. also helping with putting together outfits for them. making a monochromatic outfit needs a good eye. let her have outfit discussions with kizzy.

the jacket and clothes are so cool! all those little details! i did not even notice the jacket details in the movie which is a shame because it’s so pretty with the skull and the heart and all the filigree (also random but filigree is one of my favourite words and i do not get to use it enough). and the handcuff detail on the glove??!! WITH ONE OF THE CUFFS FORMING A HEART SHAPE?????!!!

the rude boys have absolutely dug up some good vintage stuff but they’re usually like, it’s not our style so they trade it for patches and patterns they actually want. i could also see her helping resize/fit clothes for lala if something’s too big or making something typically masculine a lil more feminine.

the sannoh boys dropped the ball after mugen! mugen had a whole vibe! they had jackets! then sannoh was just like ‘meh, wear whatever’. like COMMIT!! you wanna be a biker gang, dress like it! where is your gang jackets?! also tho …… i love cobra’s jackets. like the pink tiger jacket he wore while fighting hyuga? that fucks, where’d he get that? also the dragon one from end of sky, when he kicks the kuryu guy? excellence.

i’m cool with her being a badass fighter, but like. you can’t go up against the one group of people who literally won’t fight back. that’s weak. that’s another reason there needed to be more female characters, since i don’t think any of the gangs would necessarily be okay with hitting a girl. kizzy will brawl tho.

i can see ryuko fighting sarah as a scene during end of sky, like when all the other gangs show up to help the rascals and there’s all those short scenes of characters flying in to help them - like takeshi with kizzy, and cobra and hyuga with rocky.

also i was rewatching that scene and pi and koo’s lil interaction is so good. ‘taking a break? :)’ ‘it’s my day off, you know :)’ white rascals and rude boys are bros actually.

some kuryu leader is like ‘hyuga take a weapon’ and he goes ‘im good!’ and them beats the shit out of some target. all biting and ripping out chunks of hair and breaking multiple bones. chaos boy but worse.

i think kato is the actual indifferent one to weapons. like he’ll use them when available and he’s good at fighting with them, but he’s not opposed to just using his fists if there’s nothing around. i imagine he’s still hyuga’s handler if they were with kuryu. like the one who keeps him on track.

my older brother was partly diagnosed with asperger’s! not fully diagnosed because he only got the initial test when he was an adult and to get the full diagnosis it was going to cost literal thousands of dollars and couldn’t be done in our hometown. but yeah, he’s on the autism spectrum too. i think more variations on autism should be written - especially by actual autistic people - because there is a lot of bad representation out there.

i still haven’t decided on the reason behind hinami’s amputation. i’ve been reading around a bit to get inspired but haven’t fully landed on anything. i’m thinking maybe - because i half-planned on her originally being from one of the complexes from ‘the worst’ - that she could’ve gotten an infection and because both her parents worked, they didn’t notice until it was too late. in the end though, it doesn’t really matter since the cause of her amputation doesn’t get brought up often, i’ve thought more the aftermath of it (being abandoned at nameless, slowly recovering, using crutches until she gets her prosthetic, etc).

i can see her teaching some of the kids basic ballet stuff like the guys teaching them parkour stuff. also takeshi has absolutely caught her practicing poses in private and he’s a lil sad about it because he’s probably the only one who knows the full story about her past and knows she sometimes misses being a ballerina.

~

i think rocky would enjoy final girl horror movies. even if he’s still uncomfortable during the scenes where female characters get hurt. i think he’d like more psychological horror/thrillers, where it’s more mind-fucky as opposed to gory.

if the smg are anything to go by, he definitely loves a female main character. i bet he’d be into like pride and prejudice and little women and movies like that. why is cosette ‘cosette’ and not ‘eponine’, rocky?

kizzy and koo both have the most sway in the rascals. koo urges towards maturity but kizzy is undermining him for the sake of having some fun. and kaito is backing kizzy because that’s his wife. rocky is the leader but he’s also like ‘so long as you’re respecting women and bashing bastard men, idc what you do’.

i’ve been enjoying the worst! i haven’t watched the cross movie yet, but i just finished up the ‘6’ episodes. finally, no more 2 minute youtube clips. i really liked the oochi brothers and doka (so excited to see miu tomita, curvy girl win right there! put her in everything she’s so pretty!!)

you tell your dad, murayama, that you’re being bullied at school and then the next day he’s brawling your bully’s dad in the school parking lot.

cobra, rocky, and takeshi could at least be adults about it. except rocky if the bully is a boy being mean to his daughter, in which he’s gonna rip the dad to shreds about not raising his son to be a good man.

~

it probably was a bit of product placement, but also i don’t see it being that out of character. especially in dtc.

kizzy and koo are frenemies. they deal with each other for rocky’s sake, but also they’re totally bitchy towards each other when he’s not around. they still very much care about each other tho, don’t get it twisted, they’re still friends and will defend each other to the death. i think koo and kaito get along decently well though.

~

it’s been all good up to now! and don’t worry, i’m pretty good at speaking up if something makes me uncomfortable, but unless it’s like totally fucked up, then i’m usually giving out second and third chances because i can also sometimes say stuff without realising it might cross a line.

so right back at you, if i say something to make you uncomfortable, just say so and i’ll try not to do it again!! 🩵

[the-stranger-of-the-hidden-world]

It was a massive relief that Stranger had successfully helped the half-dragon woman patch up her wing, and she let out a sigh. At least she seemed to be a friend...Stranger didn't really have a lot of those. "I'm just glad I could. I can't imagine how horrible it would be to not be able to fly anymore - and I don't even have wings!"

She looked tired and Sunchaser noted that even after this, she seemed a bit unsteady and offered his head to the winged woman for her to use as leverage to steady herself if she needed to stand and walk. Streak was still cautious, scanning the sky and the horizon, but Seabreak now broke off, making a round along the shore to approach. He was confident that their new friend would be alright without his vigilance for the moment.

When the woman asked Stranger about her dragons, she nodded. "They're my brothers. Our mother found me when I was little and...stranded, I think. I don't remember much from before then. She took me in and raised me. They hatched the night she took me home and we've been together ever since, even after we were old enough to leave the nest and go out on our own." Smiling, she crooned softly crouching on the rocky beach, raising her head high. "My name is Stranger. My oldest brother is Sunchaser - the one who's not going to let you go an inch beyond his reach until you're better. The one who can't sit still is the middle brother, Seabreak, and the youngest is who's expecting the sky to swoop down and gobble us up any moment is Streak."

Chortling with a roll of his amber eyes, Sunchaser softly nudged the half-dragon. "She acts like we're older, but she's the oldest."

Scoffing, Stranger snorted at them with a grumble. "Hey, it's not my fault dragons age much faster than I did! By the time I was able to walk without any help, the three of you were already fully grown!" As they all chortled amongst themselves, she rolled her eyes, looking at the winged women, tilting her head curiously. "Who and...what are you? Are you part dragon? I've only ever known one dragon that has feathers and he doesn't look anything like you."

“Better. Did good.” The bandage was tight and held the break perfect. Her wing burned but the pressure of the bandage actually eased it. Now it was just a waiting game to see how it would heal.

Stars she was tired. Her magic was drained and what little she had was going to healing. Lyra knew she’d lost blood and was physically weak as well. But she fought to stay conscious.

“You save me. Thank you.” Lyra offered the dragon girl a weary smile. She truly owed her and the dragons. The fae had no idea where she was. Was scared and injured. By all means easy prey for anything. Yet they stopped to help her. The dragon even standing guard.

Lyra looked over the dragon girl. Realizing her clothes were dragon skin. She looked at it curiously. Looking between the dragons around them back to her. Was she part of the dragon’s clan? Lyra at first thought the human had tamed them with their language. But now getting a better look a different thought hit her.

“Dragain family?” She asked.

[blazerwyvernmaster]

Dalgari's Countries

❤️Bovent(Empire of the Bull)❤️

An empire in the rough and boiling mountains. It's people are mighty and strong, but a bit brutal. Strength is valued above all, and those who wield it must make the choice to be benevolent or cruel. While the current emperor is seemingly kind to his citizens, those who defy him are met with an unending fury.

💙Liron(Kingdom of the Lion)💙

A kingdom in the snowy mountains. The royal family and nobles live lavish lives, unconcerned about their people who suffer in the cold. This has caused many to despise the country, and many flee for a better life. Those who stay must pursue chivalry and knighthood in order to live a comfortable life. Known for its cavalry and elven magic.

💛Phenlory(Theocracy of the Songbird)💛

A theocracy in the snowy tundra. Its citizens are devout and holy, though some of its people are more zealous and harmful than others. It's rulers even more so. They see the heroes of eld as divine, and anyone with relations to them are treated with the highest of respect. Small and not exactly strong, it relies on the strength of allies to stay safe. Known for its holy magic and pegasus riders.

💚Delka(Queendom of the Elk)💚

A kingdom in the deep forests and jungles. Seen as a safe haven for the Ainmhí, as they have bigoted foes. It's people live with a constant and unending peace, knowing very little about war. It's queen seems to be missing, which is concerning for a variety of reasons.

🩶Pakwil(Oligarchy of the Wolf)🩶

An oligarchy in the steppe. It's people are jolly and hardy, and often spend their time studying things like music, poetry or art. The country is very diverse and camaraderie is encouraged. Nobles ignore this concept, and are extremely divided. Even the head oligarch seems to have the diversity in not just the country's people, but the world's. They seek to turn the country into a isolationist and militaristic country.

💜Nowtuol(Aristocracy of the Owl)💜

A country with beautiful plains and beaches. It's people are studious and knowledgeable. All kinds of magic are studied here, and many types of magic technology are created here. This means that, while their army is small, it's ray magical might and tactical knowledge makes them masters in the battlefield. If only the rulers cared enough to use their army for things.

🧡Ampherous(Kingdom of the Cobra)🧡

A kingdom in the sands. It's people tend to either be law abiding and patriotic, or sly and a bit rebellious. Merchants are common here, and are well protect by royal soldiers. They must be, as bandits appear much more frequently than other countries. Or at the very least, they're more organized. Long ago, the previous ruler of the country made some foolish deals, causing it to be cursed to attacked by a spectral army every decade or so. It's up to the current generation to protect then people now.

🖤Umbertala (Kingdom of the Raven)🖤

A dark kingdom in the dark, western swamps and forests. Its people are both mysterious and curious. Not many people travel in and out, but the few that do seek to learn all they can about the world. It's not that they aren't allowed to leave, but the people are already afraid to leave because of the countries dark monsters. It's rulers do it's best to serve the people, but don't reach out for help too often.

🤎Cerotia(Archduchy of the Bear)🤎

A newer country in the middle of the continents plains and forests. Wealthy and mighty, it's people come from all walks of life and fill the country with pride. Mercenaries and other warriors are common here, and they protect the country when the military can't. It's leader founded the Gilded Guardians, which is supposed to fiercely protect the people of the world, as well as unite people from every country.

🩷Taliver (Kingdom of the Salamander) 🩷

A kingdom with sands, cliffs and savannahs. It'd people are cheerful, but weary. The country faces rocky relations with it's neighbor, Ampherous, but have been trying to patch things up as of late. Bandits from Ampherous spill into the country, but it'd people are still cheerful and express themselves through dance and art, as well as spiritually.

🩵Scalborn (Kingdom of the Dragon)🩵

A kingdom composed entirely of a few islands. Its people, the Ollphéist, live here in relative peace, though they must defend themselves from humans,elves and ainmhís. They hide away on the islands, rarely heading on to the mainland, and they must be strong to avoid invasions. Though it seems a few people want to try peace with the mainland after all these wierd.

[haddonfieldproject]

<<PREVIOUS⏺<<CONTENTS>>

1.2.25 SATURDAY NOVEMBER 1st, 7:17 AM

Haddonfield, Illinois

“Oh my God I feel so much better!” Ophelia Tate said, leaning her seat back with a groan.

“Totally,” Jack seconded, pulling the station wagon into the parking lot of a Liberty Burger fast-food chain. “It's amazing how a shower can wake you up too, I hardly feel like I was up all night at all.”

He pulled the car into the drive-thru lane and rolled down the window.

“Now we can go check out the hospital first, and then sleep the rest of the day.” Ophelia said, sitting up straight to look over the menu board.

“So you’re saying taking a shower at the Truck Stop was a good idea?” Jack smiled.

“Maybe,” Ophelia rolled her eyes.

Jack threw his hands up in exasperation. “Come on? Can’t I get some credit?!”

“Even a broken clock is right twice a day,” Ophelia smirked

“Welcome to Liberty Burger, can I take your order?!” The speaker below the menu board squawked.

“Hold on one second,” Jack called out, rolling his eyes at his wife. He turned to his son, who was sitting in the back with his ear-buds in again. “Damon, do you want anything?”

“Not from here,” he groaned.

“Well here is where we are so if you want anything to eat for breakfast, here is where it's coming from.” Jack replied and looked at his wife. “Thanks babe. Do you know what you would like?”

“Number six,” she answered, “no cream or sugar for the coffee, I don't want to be too jittery when I meet all of the staff.”

“Okay,” Jack called out to the speaker, and then he looked back at his son, “Damon?”

Damon rolled his eyes, “I guess an egg and cheese biscuit is fine.”

“Go ahead with your order,” the speaker barked.

“Do you want OJ to drink?” Jack asked his son.

“What time is it?” Ophelia asked, she picked up her phone and swiped to see if it had gotten enough charge yet to turn the thing on.

Nope...still dead.

“Fine,” Damon sighed.

“It's close to half passed seven,” Jack said to his wife and then leaned toward the speaker, “OK I'll have a number six combo...”

“What to drink with that?”

“Coffee please.”

“Cream and sugar for the coffee?”

“No thank you.”

“Okay.”

“I'll have a number eight, no combo, I don't want any hash browns.”

“OK.what else?”

“And I'll have a number four combo.”

“What to drink with that?”

“Orange juice.”

“OK..anything else?”

“I'd like another small OJ please.”

“OK..anything else?”

“No, that's it.”

“16.42, please drive around to the first window.”

🎃

Jack did, and before long they were cruising in town, munching on their fast food breakfast.

“I wish it wasn't still raining so hard, we could see the town better.” Jack said.

“It's pretty though,” Ophelia said, “look there's a post office.”

“Whole town looks like a Norman Rockwell painting,” Jack said.

“Who?”

“Norman Rockwell...he's got all the paintings in the doctors' offices, I'd figure you'd know who he is.”

Ophelia shook her head and pointed to her right. “That's like the tenth church we've driven by.”

“You know the one of the kid who's looking over his doctor's degree while taking off his pants because he's about to get a shot in the ass?” Jack asked.

“Oh yeah, I love that one, it's cute” Ophelia answered.

“That's Norman Rockwell.”

“This is the turn right?”

“Yep,” Jack answered, flicking the turn signal on and turning left at a traffic light with a green sign that read: OLD RESERVOIR RD E.

On the right they passed a LITTLE EGYPT CREDIT UNION. It has an electronic sign with a marquee. The letters on the sign read:

HUSKERS HOME THIS SAT

...and then changed again...

VS WCHS ‪730P‬

Ophelia was reading the sign when Jack tapped her shoulder. He was pointing to the left. There was a white sign that read C.R. 4679, as in the designation for the county road, and next to it, one of those familiar blue signs with the big white H, under which was an arrow pointing up.

“The hospital is right up here, we'll be there in a sec.” Jack said.

Ophelia pulled the sun visor down and looked at her face in the mirror, inspecting her bleary looking eyes, she saw Damon dozing in the back seat with his ear-buds in. She turned around and smacked his knee. His eyes opened.

“Take those things out of your ears we are---”

“Whaaa?” He interrupted, taking the ear bud out of his left ear.

“Turn that off, we are almost there.” She said.

“There's the cemetery,” Jack pointed across Ophelia toward the left.

Damon and Ophelia looked that way. Indeed there was a cemetery

REINCOURT ACRES, a sign read.

“That's one spooky ass cemetery,” Damon said quietly.

“Language,” Ophelia hissed.

“It's only because of the rain and fog,” Jack said.

“It's pretty creepy,” Ophelia agreed. “Bet you could catch a ghost or too in there.” She added.

“Whole damn place is a ghost town,” Damon said.

Ophelia laughed at the pun in spite of herself, “Language,” she said simply.

“It's small, nice, and away from everything,” Jack remarked, looking at Damon in his rear-view mirror, “Which will be good for you.”

Damon rolled his eyes.

“There's the hill,” Ophelia said, pointing straight ahead, “and a sign.” She was referring to the fact that the road they were traveling on took a sharp right turn, disappearing behind the bluff of a steep and rocky hill. A gravel road cut to the left, essentially forming a T-junction. A white rectangular sign with a black arrow and black lettering pointed to the left reading: FRENCHLICK RESERVOIR.

Under that was a blue sign with white lettering and an arrow pointing to the right reading: HADDONFIELD CO GEN HOSP.

Below that was a yellow diamond with a black arrow pointing to the right, under which was another rectangular yellow sign with black letters reading: CAUTION SHARP TURN 15 MPH.

Jack let off the gas and pointed to the left. “Apparently, from what I read online, the old reservoir down there for which this road was named dates back to when all of this was a French colony back in the---”

“JACK WATCH OUT!!” Ophelia screamed.

This was followed quickly by a gasp from Damon, “What...the...fuck!”

Jack and Ophelia didn't bother this time to correct their son's language.

Jack stood on the brakes. The car skidded for a few feet on the wet asphalt and came to an abrupt halt about twenty yards from the turn.

A woman...or maybe a young girl, was walking---staggering to be more exact--in the middle of the road. The rain matted her hair over her face, and also soaked through what looked like a hospital gown. It was so saturated in fact that it had become essentially see-through, and in the soft gray morning light, the red of her nipples was visible as well as the dark patch of her pubic hair. One of her arms was in some kind of metal brace and cast which gleamed in the light of the station wagon's headlights. Her other arm was covered in blood, which ran down the side of her bluish gray skin, and dripped from her fingertips.

“Oh my God,” Ophelia breathed. The figure looked very much like a ghost.

Ophelia opened the door and hopped out. Jack un-clicked his seat-belt and opened his door as well. “Stay here,” he said to Damon.

“Yeah right,” Damon replied, and opened his door also.

“Ma'am!?” Ophelia bellowed. The girl had no reaction except which to stagger to one side suddenly, seeming that she was about to fall over unto the wet road but she corrected herself, swaying momentarily the other way before righting. They could hear she was muttering something.

Ophelia reached her first. “Ma'am what is your name?” She reached out to her hesitantly. The girl was young—older teenager. Her face was busted up pretty bad, her nose most likely broken and it had already been set and bandaged, but the rain was peeling some of the bandage off now. There was bruising around the eyes suggesting it had happened some time before. Ophelia put her hand on her shoulders and the girl stopped walking. Jack splashed up beside her, followed by Damon.

“She must have escaped the hospital!” Jack called out.

No shit, Ophelia thought, “Ma'am, do you know where you are?”

The girl had stopped walking, but she kept muttering, but now they could hear what she was saying.

“We blew his ass up....we burned his ass....he's on fire but he's still walking...burn fucker...burn...”

Ophelia felt a tightening in her chest. She reached down and lifted the girl's right wrist with her left hand, it was the one with the brace and cast. The hospital band was wrapped around her forearm above the brace but the rain had smeared all of the lettering, she couldn't make anything out.

“These damn county-fried doctors!” Jack began, “They never know how much shit they're giving these patients. First thing you're gonna need to do Ophelia is monitor their...” he stopped suddenly, cocking his head to one side. “Wait. Do you smell smoke?”

“...blew his ass up....burned that fucker....still walking towards me though...just won't die....”

Damon sniffed, “Totally...and look!”

Ophelia took a whiff too. Definitely smoke.

She looked up to where Damon was pointing. Straight ahead from the direction the girl had been coming.

At first it looked kind of like fireflies, dancing out from behind the steep bluff of the hill. Damon took off running towards them, his father followed. Ophelia didn't need to follow to know what they were, she had seen a sight like that before when she had been working a forest fire outside of Woodsboro, California about two years before.

Embers.

Ophelia looked over the girl's hand. It was all tore up, broken fingers, a broken wrist, her pinky fingertip looked like it had been surgically re-attached. All of the wounds that had been stitched were oozing blood, suggesting she had gotten quite a workout with the arm since it had been patched up. She looked at her legs. Her knees were scraped up, and the front of her gown was filthy, as if she had crawled through the mud on her belly.

“Can you tell me your name?” She tried again. The girl still muttered.

“kept coming....even when he was on fire....I hope the fucker burns...we blew his ass up...”

“Holy shit!” Jack called out.

Damon and Jack had come around the hill. There---just as the maps and the descriptions on the internet had told them---about four hundred yards away and across a gated parking lot, was the hospital.

Or what was left of it.

It was a white rectangular building, pretty typical of any hospital in any town in America. At the top of the building, spanning it's face in blue lettering read: HADDONFIELD COUNTY-GENERAL MEDICAL CENTER. In the front center of the building was a large overhang marked with red lettering that read: EMERGENCY.

Below that you would assume to see the front doors of a lobby or annex of some kind. Instead, Damon and Jack saw a jagged hole, as if a bomb had exploded there. Out of the hole spit the flames of the most hellish inferno the two of them had every seen. Thick black smoke rose up out of the hole as well as out of some of the broken windows nearest to the front entrance. The parking lot was void except for two or three cars. Not an ambulance or fire truck to be seen. The two could actually feel the heat from the fire hitting their faces, even though they were so far away.

“Do you have your phone?” Jack asked his son, raising his voice over the relentless sound of the rain.

“It's in the car!” He yelled back.

“Go call ‪911‬!” his dad exclaimed.

Damon turned and sprinted back around the hill.

When he came in full view of the car, and his mom, and the young lady she was trying to talk to, whose bare ass he could now see hanging out of her sopped hospital gown, he held up. In the far distance beyond them, he could see the lights of a firetruck.

Two firetrucks..and maybe a police cruiser.

He began to hear the siren as well. They were coming towards them.

Ophelia squeezed the young girl's shoulders. “Honey, I can't help you if you don't tell me your name!” She said more firmly.

The girl's eyes settled on Ophelia's face for a moment, then rolled up into the back of her head. She tossed her head back and bellowed, “STOP FOLLOWING ME YOU MOTHER-FUCKER!”

Ophelia's heart skipped a beat.

Damon caught his breath.

The sirens grew louder.

Ophelia felt the girl go weak at the knees and she caught her, moving her hands down to hold her up by the armpits. “Whoa...easy.” She said.

The girl tossed her head back again and screamed a second time—- a blood curdling scream that slowly morphed into a wrack of cries and sobs.

NEXT>>

[mielikki-austin]

12102021

Hello! Lately it's been all about enduring the shorter days. Okay, they're not that much shorter this far south; our ten hour days are better than brother's eight hour days, but it's still noticeable with my seasonal affective disorder (my computer does not believe 'affective' is a real word and is trying to get me to change it to 'effective', but I've assured it that I'm not mistaken).  I have not decorated for Christmas like brother has, and I'm just starting to realize that I wish I was- though I may plan for next year since I can have a 'go big or go home' kinda vibe.  I'm thinking lights on the house, which I have no idea how to do, but surely I can figure this out.  It's not like I'd be the first person to try it, right? On to some photos! 1.  Crepe myrtle and the Moon - these trees are all over the place and they are one of the few reliable sources of fall color.  If only they were natives, I would plant more, but they aren't, so I don't.  It's taken me some time to figure out that 'all over the place here' doesn't mean they're native, and I want to stick with natives whenever possible. But I'll take care of the ones we've already got and love them- this one is next to friend Joel's condo and I just happened to look up at it one morning and saw the Moon hanging in the sky next to it.

2.  Hair decoration - a late birthday present arrived in the mail last week- a bone hair stick carved to look like a snake.  It's very me; I like snakes, and I have a lot of hair that needs to be corralled.

3.  Moon and Venus - another picture of the Moon.  I'm frustrated that I can't take good pictures of the Moon at night; this is the smallest Moon in the darkest sky I can decently photograph.  If the Moon were any more illuminated, or the sky any darker, the Moon gets all blown out and just looks like a big white blur.  Above the Moon is the planet Venus, which I'm told is getting closer to Earth in its orbit every day and will look huge in a telescope or binoculars.  I will try to see this soon before it gets too close to the Sun.

4.  Mistflowers - now that I've crammed as many plants into the rocky back yard and narrow side yard that I can manage, I'm starting to dig up patches in the front yard.  All of this was just planted with whatever grass was the cheapest when the house was built, and has been slowly converting to a low meadow as the years have gone by.  This is fine by me except for when it grows sticker burrs, which this patch of lawn tends to do, so in my continuing theme of all blue and purple flowers, I picked out this native to plant.  I've seen bunches of it in neighboring yards and it's always covered with butterflies.  So I started hacking out a space for it, which was a lot harder than I'd thought it would be and I didn't finish it until well after dark.  When I went out the next morning to see it in the daylight, and there were already butterflies on it.  You can see one of them on the middle plant.  Success!  I also sowed some bluebonnet seeds in the bed because why not.  I have them and they demand a lot of sunlight, so it's a perfect spot for them.

5.  Joel at the Bullock - there's a Texas museum right across from the UT campus that has an IMAX theater.  Joel and I went to see the newest Dune movie there (there was a movie made in the eighties and at least a couple of TV movies from other parts of the series); I had already seen it with Eric at a regular theater but wanted to see it at an IMAX because it's such a BIG movie with big, sweeping scenery and a big, thunderous score.  I don't know if I'd recommend it if you're not familiar with the source material because it's one of those really dense multi-novel narratives with a lot of politics and this movie only covers the first half of the first book.  But it's very pretty and seeing it at the IMAX was amazing and wonderful; the soundtrack has a lot of loud, deep bass in it that just rumbles through your insides.  I've gotten a copy of the soundtrack and my tiny computer speakers don't do it justice.  Maybe I can get to the IMAX again before it leaves the theaters.

Anyway, that's all I've got for now.  Until next week!