#they're not super trained and perfect in combat right??

[spishidden]

I get that Earthspark kinda needs the Terrans to look cool and all since they're the main characters, but it kinda sucks how basically every other cybertronian gets nerfed somehow for the sake of the plot.

The best example I can find is Shockwave getting offlined. That was so stupid. If this was any other Shockwave he would not have gone down without fight. Mans didn't even move an inch and just casually let himself get killed. The reason for that? So that the Terrans get to save the day all by themselves.

I just find it very hard to believe that these five c h i l d r e n are more powerful and competent than the million year old war veterans, some of whom were literally forged for fighting.

[musicfeedsmysoul12]

n addition to not being that much more impressive than many in 1A, I never understood why “Explosion” was thought to be “perfect for heroics” in the first place. First of all, it’s a destructive quirk, and despite the prevalence of fire-quirked heroes, I’d expect the first reaction of most adults to a destructive quirk is to think “future-villain” - especially when wielded by a kid with no respect for property damage. Secondly, a lot of what makes it “good for heroics” is down to Bk’s intensive training - using it fly, etc - not things that would have been immediately obvious in elementary school.

Separately, I agree with what a few others have said that what makes Bk’s quirk seem so strong is his intensive training of it and his endless aggression. (Honestly, half of the kids should have found it psychologically hard to to actually attack someone with their quirk in their first class.) When other kids are actually worried about maiming someone, they’re not going to be using the constant 150% aggression like Bk.

Explosion is a 1 trick pony quirk at the end of the day. Or at least it should be but Hori gives Katsuki insane plot armor. Seriously, his stun grenade, ability to attack from a range, and his smokescreen clearing strike are BS.

This is why I always say there are two school of thoughts on Explosion Quirks: villain or hero.

For me, I think people praising him really focused on the combat aspect of his Quirk because heroism had become about fighting rather then saving people. I think a bright kid, with rich parents because they're a model and fashion designer the guy has money, Bakugou was placated by others even more. His willingness to train and work with his Quirk led to him being praised more.

Its a headcanon kids like Bakugou get specialized training for his Quirk because of how dangerous it can be. I imagine the trainer was shocked by how dedicated Bakugou was and praised him. It got around and everyone knew this kid was strong, wanted to be a hero, and had a combative Quirk.

So that can be why its him being praised so much, by a bunch of people focusing on combat not anything else.

Not sure about ‘kids finding it hard to attack others’ cause kids are nasty. I remember being like six and punching another kid in the face. Plus I had a brother two years older then me, and a cousin a week younger.

The three of us were nightmares and I ain't gonna lie if I was Bakugou I’d be using it on them one time. Of course I'd be horrified by them being hurt and would have been grounded so hard.

Little kids dont really have the ability to know right from wrong and empathy is very low but Bakugou… I've pointed out how malicious the Deku name is (and I will yell it still it occurred before Izuku was diagnosis and it was never a kind nickname) for a freaking toddler and while yeah Hori did it, whole thing is still disturbing.

His attacks are a bit BS and I think Hori was having to come up with a reason he's around because he is just that guy with an explosion Quirk. Mind I personally think Hori didn't like Bakugou but when he got super popular had to keep him around.

Everyone knows my thoughts on how Bakugou's arch should have gone. He's honestly such a boring character now to me, because I had that upswing of anger at him and now it's 'and here is Bakugou with a loud Quirk who somehow despite the logical assumptions is the best above everyone'. He's so boring.

The more I really think about it, the more I wanna really have Bakugou just be there. Have Izuku move past him without realizing it, and have Todoroki take the place as rival. I am not going to lie: the idea of Todoroki staying a rival for longer then canon (and actually presenting himself as a rival early on) is attractive as hell. He's RIGHT THERE. The son of the number two hero raised to surpass All Might constantly fighting against the protoge of All Might! The drama, the action.

I'd honestly only have the reveal of Todoroki's past be when the summer camp happens, and that's when Todoroki turns from rival to friend. Not the weird ass thing Hori did with Bakugou.

But yeah, you're not wrong.

[thebomb-thebird-andtheburntbitch]

"you'd like me to what?" zhongli had been enjoying your company in silence for a spell before you had blurted out a request you wished he would fulfil for you.

"show me how to fight with a polearm." zhongli had not yet divulged the information about him being a god to you, and as far as he knew you hadn't known just how much physical power he possessed. so why ask him?

"may i ask why you've chosen to come to me with this request? i'm afriad i am quite at a loss."

"well, you go out with the traveler on occasion, right? and they're super strong and it's not like you go on leisurely walks among the hilichurl invaded mountains of liyue." before zhongli could even try and rebuttle, you keep going. "and truthfully, if you go out into the rolling hills with the traveler covering you everywhere you go, that makes you look kinda bad you know."

"bad?" his voice pitches and recoils slightly from your words.

"making them do all the work while you sit back and do nothing! that certainly would paint a bad picture if you keep going out there willingly and don't learn. so! you must know something."

"hmm," he hums, wordless agreeing with a small furrow to his brow and a sweat on his neck. though your scenarios were purely hypothetical and very untrue since he does carry his own weight very well, it still wasn't a picture his wanted you to paint of him. "perhaps.. you're correct. but, then why would you request training specific to polearms? could you not ask a local millelith for aid?"

"i could i guess," you deflate and he almost cracks right there. "but hu tao said you were definitely a better choice in regards to what i'm looking for."

zhongli feels a deep sigh in his chest at the mention of the current director. yes, this does have her written all over it. if she wasn't looking into ridiculous ways of promoting the business of death, she was snooping around in zhongli's love life- or lack thereof since you were not his significant other much to her displeasure.

"last i check however, you were already very skilled in other means of combat. why the sudden interest?"

"isn't is a good thing to broaden your horizons? that's what childe said anyways."

you've also convened with childe it seems. lovely.

"you really should disregard anything those two say." his voice is normal as he speaks, but the dryness of it makes you laugh. he wasn't joking, but he smiles at you regardless.

"well, i'm not going to pressure you!" you get the sense that his questions were a very very polite way of stalling you from a rejection. "if you dont want to, childe did offer since he said he's mastered every form of combat aside from archery." zhongli felt his brow twitch.

"i also wouldn't recommend getting too frivolous with childe. kind though he may act, he is still someone to be cautious of."

"because he's a fatui?"

"partially." also because he'll easily vie all of your free time from this point onwards until he leaves liyue if you go to him for training. zhongli wouldn't get to enjoy your company like this anymore if you do run to childe, and that idea alone makes his chest itch. "i accept your request."

his calm agreement makes your face light up and your eyes shine with such excitement he feels antsy. strange how strong the urge to kiss you grows when you look at him like he had just hung the stars.

zhongli is lucky the next time you see childe and tell him that zhongli will be training you with polearms, he's seated up in the higher shops of liyue's red-fenced architecture. the strained, yet begrudging look of disappointment to cross the harbingers face is a perfect appetizer to go with his fresh cup of tea.

as is the smug look zhongli shoots him when childe feels the burning gaze on his skull and looks up once you saunter off. zhongli takes pleasure in knowing he is a being who is and always will be above childe, both in his current fenced in seat above his head and higher status of being. a mere fatui harbinger has nothing on a god, gnosis or no.

zhongli was untouchable by many, in many ways. you however, all you had to do was simply ask and he would do whatever you wished.

besides, he hadn't forgotten what childe tried to do to his nation where all his beloved people and you resided. and his memory, much to childe's misfortune, is very good.

[themarysuep]

I believe Carol and Kamala would be so careful with the Rambeau house because they'd want it perfect when Monica returns. But... it just doesn't work out with them:

*For context: it's summer vacation post-Ms Marvel s1. Let's say Kamala spends some of it in Louisiana after the moving scene.

1. Carol trying to train Kamala in combat. Kamala is just not having it so she ends up using noor (when they're supposed to be sparring) and sending Carol (who didn't anticipate it) through a wall.

2. Them always being behind on laundry and Carol is always messing up loads. She somehow causes a flood in the house. She's used to her super advanced and different system on her ship.

3. Kamala attempting to make something like haleem. While she knows how to do it, she's never been away from Muneeba in her life, so her practical skills leave a lot to the imagination and she starts a kitchen fire. On top of the kitchen fire Carol started.....the previous day.

4. Carol is always 2 seconds away from throwing the remote at the TV because it's slow, complicated and ancient. Again, she's used to advanced tech on her ship but earth is still behind.

5. Sometimes they forget to lock the doors and one time a homeless person just wandered in.

6. They visit a lot of places in New Orleans and Kamala always encourages Carol to make friends. She's always telling her to go to a bar or to adult parties without her. Carol is not interested and doesn't even want anyone in the house.

Eventually...the Khan's (or Nakia) demand that Kamala return to Jersey. Carol and Kamala both kind of master everything at this point. Kamala makes them the perfect desi meal. Carol does a final load laundry for her and Kamala perfectly. And Kamala finally lands a blow without using her powers. Kamala goes home knowing they're both going to be okay. Carol has adapted to earth. She also won't be as frantic 24/7 about Kamala's safety bc she can defend herself with no powers.

But Carol also realizes it's insanely quiet and lonely without Kamala. She became accustomed to Kamala's constant talking, singing and even not-english music. It makes her accept that Kamala is right, she doesn't have to be alone or live that way anymore. She sees Kamala left a flyer on the counter for her. It's for a new bar opening in the area and she actually ends up going.

Kamala leaves a typical Kamala style note with something like--

stop acting your age (62). please go - ms marvel

[mdhwrites]

Have you watched Rise of the tmnt? If so, whats your opinion on it? Is one of my favourite shows 👉👈

I have only watched probably about a dozen episodes while babysitting. Probably less than that. However, just from that... RotTMNT might be one of the best Shounen THINGS I have ever seen. And by shounen, I just mean general action adventure, in the same way it's categorized in Shounen Jump, not just that it's trying to be like Dragonball or the like. This actually isn't because of the animation or choreography like most will point out. Don't get me wrong, the show looks amazing and I would love a glimpse into the process for the show to know how they could do what they did, so often and so consistently, on a television show's budget.

No, this more comes from a failing that most action centric shows have and one that has arguably been getting worse as of late: Growth. Not character growth, though again it was clearly doing some stuff and doing it well, but growth as a fighter. Their skills actively improving episode by episode.

It's something that if you're not entrenched in this sort of stuff, or just don't care about it, you aren't going to notice. They don't bring a lot of attention to it and on screen, you are told they're training but only every now and then do we see the training which is pretty classic. However, they start at ROCK. BOTTOM. but by the time they have their villains returning for the first times, you can actually contrast their first fight with their second fight most of the time and there's a noticeable improvement and you can actually kind of track it through the episodes just by them becoming more familiar with their weapons, ambitious in their techniques, etc. like that. Not always in a way that succeeds but in ways that show they're genuinely trying to get better.

The best example I can think of is when their battle tank is introduced and Splinter takes it for a joyride. One of their villains joins Splinter on this for nefarious purposes and the boys have to fight him between two moving vehicles. The first time he showed up (the mutant hog that threatens to cook them in his first appearance if I remember right), they won through gadgets Donny made that they utilized to their advantage after they hindered them but it was as much a fluke as anything. Here though, we have Leo starting to finally understand how he can try using his portals to not just parry projectiles but also send them back. He's not good at it but even the idea of Leo parrying an attack, let alone a projectile, while balanced on a chain was just infeasible within the first half a dozen episodes because, let's be honest, he seemed about as likely to stab himself as an opponent early on.

This is contrast to the fact that the general basics of combat have started becoming kind of a given? Like let's take Deku from My Hero Academia. He does a LOT of strength training early on but... When the fuck did he learn to fight? Knowing strategy and having seen moves be put into implementation are VERY different from actually implementing any of that so he can, I dunno, judo throw someone who is WAY better a fighter than him. So he can use rescue tape in a similar way to a hero who has perfected it. All from a kid who, as far as we, know didn't train ever before getting All for One. He was a fanboy. This reflects how his power grows early on. How does he learn to master his first version of the power? Kind of just through pain tolerance. He's not trying new things, not learning to do it faster or planning ahead or even seeming to actually try and constrain the power at all. It takes someone else going "Maybe try NOT using literally all your power at once," for him to even consider the concept. It's a very boring way to do growth and it's pretty common in action where growth is much more "Look at my new weapon," or, "Let me bust out my new technique or super mode!" Few of them, especially anime inspired works, are about iteration.

That is ALL I saw in RotTMNT. Hell, even looking at later fight scenes, these moves are bigger but the core is the same. It's just further mastery of the skill set which is honestly WAY more satisfying as a form of growth. It's not just a new finishing technique, the person has genuinely become a better fighter. They can handle ANY situation better because their basics and their specials are improving and you can tell without it being shoved in your face. That requires such a deft hand and such an understanding of this sort of things works, especially to make it still feel right in a medium where it can feel like only two days have actually passed in ten episodes, that it's commendable and I think it deserves credit for it, even without having seen all of it. I can say you would learn, genuinely, from it just by watching early on for how they try to take these small but noticeable steps.

It's fantastic and definitely a show I should finish at some point... Just like Craig of the Creek and so many others. sigh See you next tale.

======+++++======

I have a public Discord for any and all who want to join!

I also have an Amazon page for all of my original works in various forms of character focused romances from cute, teenage romance to erotica series of my past. I have an Ao3 for my fanfiction projects as well if that catches your fancy instead. If you want to hang out with me, I stream from time to time and love to chat with chat.

A Twitter you can follow too

And a Kofi if you like what I do and want to help out with the fact that disability doesn’t pay much.

[thesilliestrovingalive]

Updated: June 15, 2025

Reworked Group #4: S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S.

Overview

Tequila and Red Eye successfully dismantled a rogue military organisation engaged in illicit human trafficking and arms dealing, which had also planned to launch a global bioterrorist attack in collaboration with the Pipovulaj. The plot involved spreading a plague to control the population, transforming numerous innocent civilians into violent Man Eaters as a means to create a twisted form of super soldier. Impressed by the exceptional performance of Tequila and Red Eye as highly capable spies, the Intelligence Agency and Regular Army jointly established a covert operations branch, S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S., through a mutual agreement.

The S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. is responsible for gathering intelligence and managing information to prevent public panic and global hysteria. They provide their members with specialised training in high-risk covert operations that surpass the scope of regular Intelligence Agency agents, which are all conducted with utmost discretion and situational awareness. Some of these special covert operation missions involve precision targeting of high-priority threats and strategic disruption of complex criminal schemes.

They're known to have the fewest members among the military branches of the Regular Army, often numbering between 100 and 150. This small size means that each agent is familiar with the others, even if they're not family, friends or acquaintances. This familiarity significantly contributes to their nearly perfect teamwork achievements, allowing them to complete duties more quickly and efficiently when working together.

Insignia

It features a cerulean square Iberian shield, rimmed with a spiky teal vine that’s outlined in bronze. Above the shield, the words "S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S." are inscribed in bluish-white, surmounting a stylized pair of bronze eyes with a yellowish-white star at their centre. The shield is flanked by a stylized peregrine falcon holding a gilded blade on the right side and a male house sparrow clutching an olive branch on the left side.

S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. Base

The Intelligence Division is tactically positioned adjacent to the Joint Military Police Headquarters, deeply entrenched within a dense and remote forest in Northern Russia. The rectangular military compound features a forest-inspired camouflage colour scheme, a secure warehouse for military vehicles, multiple surveillance cameras, and several elevators leading to a subterranean base. They have a rooftop array of parabolic antennas that enables real-time surveillance, threat detection, and situational awareness, preventing surprise attacks and informing strategic decision-making. The base features comprehensive protection through an advanced security system and a defensive magnetic field, which automatically activates in response to potential threats, safeguarding against enemy attacks.

The base features a state-of-the-art command and surveillance centre, equipped with cutting-edge technological systems to orchestrate and execute operations. Additional facilities include:

An armoury housing the group’s most cutting-edge, high-clearance weaponry and specialised ordnance.

A high-tech meeting room with a high-resolution, encrypted display screen and multi-axis, AI-enhanced holographic projection system.

A state-of-the-art gymnasium for maintaining elite physical readiness, featuring biometric monitoring systems and AI-driven training programs.

A fully equipped, high-tech medical bay with regenerative treatment capabilities and telemedicine connectivity for remote expert consultation.

A secure dining area serving optimised, nutrient-rich rations for peak performance.

A high-security quarters with biometrically locked storage for personal gear and AI-monitored, secure communication arrays.

A Combat Academy, led by Margaret Southwood, featuring a heavily fortified training area with advanced combat simulation zones, tactical obstacle courses, stealth and surveillance training areas, and high-tech weapons testing ranges.

Extra Information

S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. stands for Special Pursuit Agents and Rapid Response Operations Worldwide Strikeforce.

Members of the S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. are commonly known as "Sparrowers" or "Following Falconers", reflecting their affiliation with the unit and their close relationship with the P.F. Squad.

Despite being part of an elite covert operations branch, Sparrowers face a significant pay disparity: males earn a quarter of the average government agent's salary, while females earn about a third. Additionally, underperforming Sparrowers, both male and female, experience further financial hardship due to delayed salary payments, often waiting between one to two months to receive their overdue compensation.

The S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. conduct their covert operations in collaboration with the Peregrine Falcons Squad who provide primary firepower and protection for their agents.

The handguns carried by Sparrowers are the Murder Model-1915 .38 Mk.1Am or Classic Murder .38 for short. It’s a double-action revolver that features a 6-round cylinder. Originally designed to enhance the Enfield No.2 .38 Caliber revolver in 1915, the Murder Model retained only the frame and grip from the original. All other components were replaced with newer parts in later years.

[dragonmasterhiccup]

She nodded, watching closely as he secured the buckles around Twilight. After he was finished, she moved over to where he was, and started tightening the saddle, feeding the leather straps through the buckles and securing it as tight as possible.

She shook the saddle lightly, her expression filled with pride as it didn’t budge at all. “I think that’s good!” She looked over at Hiccup. “Do you think it’s tight enough? I mean- I do, but you’re the expert here.”

At first, a huge smile made its way onto her face, mainly because it sounded like he was saying ‘yes’ with no strings attached. But he just had to ruin it. “Well, how else am I supposed to reach you expect for Terror mail? There’s not much else, especially if I’m, y’know, fifteen islands away.” She groaned in mild annoyance. “I don’t need hand-to-hand combat. One, that’ll take forever. Two, I have my bow, and three, nothing should happen if I don’t go to the islands you marked!” That wasn’t even mentioning the fact that Twilight could just fly high enough to stay out of range of any hunter boats they might come across.

In her opinion, he was worrying way too much. Just because she got kidnapped one time doesn’t mean anything. He was thinking too deep into it.

“And I’m not stupid y’know, I know how to stay away from suspicious looking people.”

(That’s great! I’m glad you had fun! 😄 And that’s amazing! I bet it was super delicious!!)

He watched as she secured the saddle, and returned a smile after she checked that it wouldn't budge. Just to be sure, he checked it as well, and nodded in approval. "Well done! It's perfect."

He guided Twilight to sit close to the ground again. "Alright, now mount up! You'll want to place your left foot first, then swing your right over the other side. Sounds obvious, I know, but you'd be surprised how many try to start with the wrong foot, only to end up sitting backwards on their dragons."

His eyebrows furrowed together, understanding why she was frustrated, but not understanding how she didn't realize how important these things were.

"A distress signal can be seen for much farther out than you'd think. But you're right, how much help could I be if you're fifteen islands away?" He sighed, sitting down in a nearby stool that was typically used for dragon claw trimmings. "And what if I think an island is perfectly safe, just for hunters to be lurking there? It's been months, close to a year since I've been able to leave Berk. I know which islands have dangerous dragons, but people are too unpredictable." He paused, almost at a loss for words.

He took a breath, standing back up. "I know you can handle yourself, and I know Twilight will be there to protect you. But if you think hand to hand combat training will take too long, you're underestimating just how long it will take to learn to ride Twilight and build up that trust between you two. It's one thing to be close when you're on the ground, but in the air? You're one unit, and the stakes are so much higher. Sure. You know what the hunter boats look like. What if they're on the opposite side of the island? Or in a secluded cove? You need to be ready for anything, Danny."

Oh, gods. He was sounding like his father. Not always a bad thing, but in this case? Probably bad. He inwardly braced himself, because he suspected that Danny would not be happy with his response, but it was the truth.

[uncloseted]

I used to think I had ADHD bc it's so hard for me to get schoolwork done, but Ive realized that I really just procrastinate bc I'm scared of starting an assignment and failing. I mainly procrastinate on essays and projects bc it's usually a challenge and also a sum of everything you have learned in class, and I get scared because I feel like I'm not equipped to do it. So I avoid avoid avoid and do it last minute. Sometimes I get really good marks actually! So it proves that I am actually

Equipped to do the assignment even if I do it super late. But, I'm wondering how I can drill into my head to just DO the thing and not be terrified that I'm going to fail and avoiding it for fear of confronting the truth that I'm a "failure" and can't do the assignment (logically I know this isn't true but emotionally my brain automatically doesn't believe it).

Yes! Perfectionism is such a huge reason why people procrastinate and I don't think people talk about it nearly as much as they should.

The first thing I would do when dealing with procrastination from perfectionism is to remind yourself that the outcome of your work isn't a reflection of your worth as a person. You can be loved and worthy even if you aren't perfect at everything you do. I think oftentimes, people who struggle with perfectionism feel like being perfect at things is a necessary part of their identity, but we aren't our successes and failures. Letting go of the idea that the outcome of tasks define us makes it easier to complete work. And when you do fail at things, try to reframe what that means in your mind. Instead of "failing this exam means I'm a failure as a person", maybe try reframing it as "failure is a normal part of life. If I never fail, then I'll never be able to grow."

When you're starting an assignment, try and set reasonable goals and standards for yourself. Of course you want to give each assignment your best and get 100% on everything, but what's the bare minimum that would get you to achieve your goal? If you have a class you're taking, what's the bare minimum that you would need to get on this assignment and still pass the class? Figuring out what would be good enough can help to combat that feeling that the world is ending when an assignment isn't perfect. It can also help you to get started, since you can remind yourself that it doesn't need to be perfect, it just needs to get done. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and remind yourself that you can always go through it again at the end and improve it if you need to.

In terms of general anti-procrastination strategies, there are a few things you can try:

Break your task into small, manageable steps that you can check off a list. These can be as simple as "open document" and "write name at the top of the paper". The more little tasks you do successfully, the more you'll feel like you can do.

Commit to only doing a little bit. Maybe you'll just do one step that's on your list, or you'll do two minutes of work. Usually, after that time is up, you'll feel like you've gotten over the hump of starting a new task and you can keep going. But if not, let yourself take a break. You've at least gotten a little something done, which is better than nothing.

Reward your progress. Once you get to pre-set milestones in the task you're going (like you've finished five of the small steps on your list, or you've finished writing a paragraph of an essay), give yourself a little treat. It sounds silly, but if you can train yourself to associate doing work with getting a treat, it's easier to start doing the work.

And more than anything else, I think it's important to be kind to yourself. If you had a friend that was struggling the way that you are now, what would you say to them? You'd tell them that they're capable of completing the assignment and even if it doesn't go well, they're not a failure of a person, right? Try to talk to yourself that same way when you're trying to get through doing an assignment. It will feel silly at first, but the more that we practice kindness and compassion towards ourselves, the easier it becomes to do it, and the more we believe the things we tell ourselves.

[onyxedskies]

Mkay here's something for you:

Ashe and m!Shez but they're training during their school days

it's not super romantic but i like this dynamic (i imagine it's early game, probably like houses chapter 2)

word count: 406

"Come on, bro, there's no way you can actually hit that."

Shez looked at Ashe with a raised eyebrow, looking between the boy–that's really all he was, lanky and sharp–and the target he'd placed all the way across the training grounds.

But his green eyes gleamed with both mischief and confidence as he nocked his arrow, a smirk quickly overtaking his features and causing the freckles on his cheeks to scrunch up ever-so-slightly. "Watch me."

As if Shez could look anywhere else.

Ashe exhaled as he let the arrow fly, and Shez watched in awe as it flew with a quiet whistle across the room. It landed in the center of the target, where someone had dyed the fabric red in a perfect circle.

"I told you!" Ashe said, turning to Shez with a grin.

"All right, all right, you told me!" Shez said, raising his hands in surrender despite the laughter that bubbled in his chest. "Seriously though, how did you do that? That's gotta be 500 feet at least."

"I've been practicing," Ashe said, grinning.

"No shit," Shez replied, rolling his eyes affectionately. "I can't hit the target even if it's ten feet away."

"Of course you can't, that's way too close," Ashe replied. "Beginners should be 15 feet away at least."

"My point still stands," Shez replied, crossing his arms and huffing playfully.

'You know, I could teach you," Ashe offered. His smile had turned almost shy, smaller than it had been before but somehow more genuine. Shez brushed it off, focusing on his offer instead.

"Nah, I think I'm good. I'm more comfortable fighting close-combat anyway," Shez replied. "I think being a swordmaster would be cool." He linked his fingers together behind his head, smiling.

"Ah, alright!" Ashe was smiling, but there was a light dusting of pink across his cheeks and the bridge of his nose. Why was he blushing?

"Thanks for the offer though," Shez replied, hoping he didn't feel embarassed. That wasn't his intention by shooting him down.

"Yeah, of course! Let me know if your decision ever changes, too," Ashe replied. His smile was so bright; how did anyone function around here?

Shez looked around the training grounds, trying to come up with a way to divert Ashe's attention since he still looked a little uncomfortable. He grinned when he came up with it.

"Want to watch me challenge Felix to a duel?"

"You are so gonna lose."

[fortune-fool02]

Talented Soul

Jack Krauser x military, female reader

Requested by: anonymous

OMG hiiiiii!!! I am literally freaking out right now!! I can't even contain my excitement because you're, like, the only person who understands my obsession with Krauser! And OMG, you're taking requests? That's just totally awesome, I can't even! 😈

So, I had this crazy idea for a fic, and I'm, like, dying to share it with you. It's set before RE4 And Javier and the reader gets to train with Krauser and even Leon. But here's the twist: the reader is, like, super talented and totally kicks butt. At first, Krauser is, like, all business and has no feelings for the reader. But, you know, after they train together and work on missions, he starts falling head over heels for them.

Like, seriously, I'm cool with it being a short or long story. I'm flexible and just thrilled if you even considering it! But if you don't want to do it, no worries, really! I totally understand. Anyway, THANK YOU SO MUCH! You're, like, the best! Bye!! 😘

Warning: Fluff, canon-violence.

Word count: 1,117 words

I adore this so much! Thank you for requesting it!

Please enjoy!

Out of every rookie lined up before him, she stood out the most. Not just for the fact she was a woman, Krauser has trained women before, but there was this look in her eyes. A sharpness that could put even his knives to shame. A burning determination to strive forward and thrive.

[Name] [Surname] had been brought along with that former cop from Racoon City, apparently the only two survivors of that catastrophe. The information gathered on her was basic, a civilian with some training to a degree, given that her father was also a former military man himself. But that did, by no means, mean Krauser would take it easy on her. If anything, it made her a target for him to see just how much potential she truly had, or if all of her father's coddling bore spoiled rotten fruit.

"[Surname], O'Neil! Step forward!" Krauser barked, and both of them stepped forward. [Name] standing with her back straight, perfect posture and her eyes fixed ahead of her, like a machine almost while O'Neil's posture was a little slumped at the shoulders, looking bored. He had them gathered outside in training yard, the obstacle course laying out in wait for them, a gruelling trial. The task was simple. Two would attempt it in unison, using this to weed out the lackies, those who couldn't hold their ground.

At the moment, Krauser had them in a clear opening. He wanted to see their capability in close-combat.

"I want you both to look at one another. Do not see a comrade. Do not see a friend. See each other as the enemy. Fight like they're your enemy." He ordered, watching the two with a stern glare. "No killing."

With that, both [Name] and O'Neil drew out their combat knives. O'Neil watching her, a light smirk on his lips. "I'll take it easy on you, little lady."

[Name] made no hesitation in making the first move, her knife held securely but allowed for a fluid movement as she closed the gap between them, the blade slicing through the air. O'Neil stumbled back, taken aback by her sudden, sharp movement and had just enough time to block the blade. Metal clashed against metal, the sound cutting through the air as she twisted her arm slightly and brought the blade downwards, cutting along O'Neil's arm and pulling a pained gasp from him. Her boot raised up, landing a sharp kick to his stomach, knocking the man down.

"Pathetic, O'Neil!" Krauser shouted, spitting down at the man. "If this woman was your enemy, you deserved to be killed!" His sharp gaze moved up to [Name], who stood there, ready for his judgement. "[Surname], impressive form. But your skills need sharpening."

[Name] simply nodded her head and stood back when she was dismissed. It was that moment that had planted something in Krauser, unnoticeable at first, but it was there.

Every task he threw at the new rookies, every obstacle he shoved in their path, [Surname] and Kennedy seemed to outmatch their fellow comrades. His eyes would observe her, the focus and determination in her eyes showing that she wanted this. She wanted to succeed. She wanted something she didn't have back in Racoon City.

Power. She wanted to be strong. And he would help with that.

He would arrange for one-to-one training sessions, correcting her posture or technique as he sparred with her. Every piece of information he gave her, [Name] took in and adapted. Flickering wisps of pride would nip at him whenever he saw her improving. A warmth developing more with how she would look at him. Her eyes showing nothing but respect and admiration for her Major.

Others looked at him with similar expressions but it was different from her. Something about the light in her eyes or how her pupils would very slightly expand upon seeing him. Whatever it was, it pulled at Krauser, festering deep inside him, allowing something faint to slip through paper-thin cracks in himself. Cracks that [Name] had caused with her little moments. Those lingering touches. The way their eyes would lock for longer than necessary.

Each little thing that would make his heart beat that one beat faster. An eagerness that would grow at the idea of their one-to-one sessions. They soon became the high-lights of his day. Seeing how her skills were honing, how she was adapting better.

But it didn't stop there. Ideas began to whisper into his thoughts. When he would raise his arm to block her incoming strike, grabbing her wrist, then either pull her into his chest or push her against the wall, pressing his lips upon hers. Pressing the blade of his knife against her neck and seeing that look in her eyes, that light mix of discomfort with a hint of something else. Something that stirred inside him.

His eyes would always fall to her lips. Imagining how they would feel against his. How she would feel in his arms, his hands on her body. These thoughts would haunt him late into the night, and even seeping into his dreams at times.

A part of him wanted to act out on these desires, to give into that temptation that she held over him, but there were too many risks. She was a rookie, he was her Major. Perhaps it was that which made it all the more tempting?

He stood there again, watching [Name]'s focused expression as she sat, taking a gun apart and putting it back together, of course, in a more basic fashion than some professionals that Krauser had seen before. But the way her fingers moved with such care and dedication was what entranced him the most.

"Major Krauser, sir." [Name] set the parts aside and stood to attention, saluting the man.

"At ease, [Surname]." He smiled at her and her posture relaxed after a moment or two. His mind rattled a little, trying to seek out a good reason for being there rather than just to observe her, like he has done countless times. But nothing came to mind. Nothing that he couldn't openly state. "You're a great soldier, [Surname]."

[Name] nodded her head at that, a sense of pride welling up inside her at the praise, she dared to crack a light smile. Krauser's eyes lit up at the sight of her smile and felt a warmth rush through his body. "Thank you, Major."

Krauser smiled at this. "Jack. Between us, just call me that." A part of him wanted to hear her call him by his name. He longed for it.

She nodded her head and glanced around, ensuring that no one is around, "Yes, Jack."

He smiled again.

[natasha-in-space]

In a Pokémon AU, what do you think the RFA + Minor Trio's roles be? Like gym leader, professor, trainer, contest star, etc?

Oh boy, Pokemon au's are always a ton of fun to play around with! I am a bit rusty, but I did my best with my personal picks for their possible trainer classes. Some of them are pretty random and even weird, but hey, I had fun writing out my thoughts regardless :D

Yoosung

Ace trainer. Honestly? I see Yoosung as being a very competent fighter that you should not underestimate under any circumstances. Ace trainers mostly consist of teens or young adults in games, as far as I can remember, so they do fit his demographic quite well! Yoosung is someone who has a deep drive to better himself, which is why I can easily imagine him travelling around the world and taking regular part in Pokemon League competitions. His team is very well balanced and pretty hard to beat, as he does take pride in his fighting skills!

Zen

Gym leader. There's just something about Zen being in charge of testing beginner trainers and making sure that they're strong enough to continue into the Pokemon League that is so appealing to me for some reason. I always viewed him as a mentor figure of sorts, so it's fun to imagine him putting his hard earned skills to good use like this. It's a pretty harsh and unforgiving position to be in, but Zen's hard work always pays off. He's not just in charge of testing and training, he's also supposed to look after the gym itself, which is a tiring physical labor to go through. It's a role that requires a lot of responsibility, and that's something that our beloved actor takes very seriously.

Jaehee

Baker. Uhhh, this may be a weird choice, but I kinda just see her opening up her own cozy pokemon cafe eventually... I want her to live a peaceful life filled with yummy treats, warm coffee and her loyal pokemon buddies right by her side. So, the first thing that came to my mind is baker class. Still, don't underestimate Jaehee. She's an extremely difficult opponent to beat!

Jumin

Pokemon professor. Jumin is definitely someone who's reached the expert level with his skills and knowledge. I can see him being highly interested in research and working towards new improvements in the training field with the help of his company. It's also easy to imagine him being in the position of giving their first ever pokemon to new trainers. Jumin is deeply connected to nature, so I tend to think that he's a certified pokemon master in that regard. He'll be able to form a connection with any pokemon and, with time, he learned to pick the perfect ones at just a few glances.

Saeyoung

Collector. Okay, I was kinda conflicted between a scientist or a collector class for him. But, since the scientist class is usually aligned with evil teams, I decided to go with the collector class. I honestly imagine Saeyoung using super rare pokemon in his team, as well as finding joy in the process of learning everything there is to know about certain types of pokemon and planning the perfect way to catch them. Fighting with him would be quite a doozy due to just how unpredictable he really is in combat, and his pokemon team reflects that ideally.

Jihyun

Doctor. I always associated Jihyun with a healing role in whatever au I put him into. It just fits him y'know? He's someone who avoids conflict and doesn't like fighting, which is pretty fitting for the doctor training class who won't fight you unless you directly interact with them and talk to them. He's also definitely the type to heal your pokemon after the battle is finished, and he does his best to heal all injured pokemon he comes across.

Saeran

Pokemon breeder. Alright, I personally see Saeran as an animal person, even though he doesn't even realize that until someone directly points this out to him. He's able to easily form a connection with any pokemon and his tender touch is known to calm even the spunkiest of individuals. I imagine him both nursing young pokemon from birth and taking care of those who, due to unfortunate circumstances, have lost their former trainer. If you need to learn something specific about your little buddy - Saeran is the right person for the job. Plus hey, picturing him in his comfy overalls as he takes care of his little garden with a few tiny pokemon nestling themselves on his shoulders is just too cute of a sight for me to ignore.

Vanderwood

Pokemon hunter(poacher)/pokemon breeder. Okay. So, initially, they play the role of a pokemon hunter, and a very skillful one at that. Pokemon hunters are known for their powerful teams, and I always imagine Vandy being a particularly difficult opponent to beat. It's not a job that they enjoy doing, but they need to keep themselves stable in one way or another. They join Saeran as a fellow pokemon breeder once they're free to choose whatever role they want for themselves. Like Saeran, Vanderwood has a natural talent at building close connections with their pokemon, and additional farm work is something they enjoy to their hearts content.

[iguana-eyanna]

All I've Ever Known

Pairing: Steve x agent!Reader

Summary: reader and Steve talk through past traumas when the reader comes back from a heartwrenching mission.

A/N: this fic is inspired by the song All I've Ever Known by Lewis Capaldi. I suggest listening to this while reading.

Warnings: blood, death, mentions of PTSD, elements of war

You don't know how you were able to walk when your chopper arrived at the Avengers headquarters. All you could do was head aimlessly towards the living quarters.

You tried to repress any thoughts to flood through your mind. As a field agent, you were trained to not let anything cloud your objective on and off duty. But after the most painful mission that you had to lead your team into, you felt barren and scarred.

"Why are you not in the infirmary?" a voice called you back to reality. You turned around to see Steve, who probably came back from the study as he had a small book in his hand. He looks worried as he scans you up and down. You were covered in grime and still had your uniform on, and he could tell you were limping just a bit when he caught you in the hallway.

"I... I don't know," you muttered quietly.

There was always a fine line of awkwardness when it came to you and Steve. No doubt that each found the other attractive, but that line was never crossed. This was the first time you were in close proximity with him (besides missions and sparring).

Steve can tell you weren't in the right state of mind and you were probably wanting to be in the comfort of your own space. "Let's get you cleaned up, okay?" He softly asks you as he approaches you slowly. You nod your head yes as you both walk to your room.

You unlock your door and lead Steve inside. He sees the minimal decorations that were in your room, alongside your bed that was of your favorite color. Steve turns his head to your hissing, now seeing you struggle to take off your jacket. "I think I have a bruised rib..." you said, still fumbling with one of the straps of your vest.

"Here." Steve offered and carefully took off your gear, including your combat boots. He almost held his breath when he was how many bruises decorated your body, including a questionable dark spot of blood that stained on the side of your top.

"If you're wondering, it's not mine." you said, lowering your head away from Steve's worried eyes. The super-soldier couldn't help it, he was worried about you all the time. When Fury introduced you to the Avengers, Steve was in quite a shock. You weren't like the other SHIELD agents that were stone cold. You were kind, bubbly, funny even, you would sometimes make Steve blush just by giving him a wink.

That's all Steve could think of as you started your shower, wondering how the most innocent person he's met became so heartbroken in a matter of days. His thoughts end as he hears you open the door, seeing you in a new comfortable outfit, and noticed your hair was still wet.

You both sit on your bed as Steve tried to give you the time to open up. Just by his gaze alone, it made you want to cry. In fact, your eyes begin to water as you didn't need the most perfect person in your world to think you weren't capable of anything. Steve softly murmurs and wraps you in his arms. You uncontrollably sob in his chest, letting out all of the pain you have endured the past several days. Steve just let his hand gracefully smooth the back of your head to help you grieve.

"They're gone, more than half of my team are gone." you said out loud, hoping your shaky voice can just wake you from this nightmare. Steve doesn't let you go, even if you felt bad for making his shirt damp with your tears. You persist to break apart as you needed to breathe properly, holding on to the little stability you had left.

"It was supposed to be a rescue mission for a small village, but we were ambushed out of nowhere. A bomb blew up before we even got to one civilian and everyone was... gone." You wipe your face with one of your arm sleeves and exhale sharply.

"I flew back a few feet away from the impact and was unconscious for almost an hour. When I woke up, only five out of eighteen of my troop survived. Everyone was taken down one by one, but my second in command got me out of the scene before I was next. All I could think is how I wasn't able to save everyone. I was too late."

Steve takes this time to hold your hand, brushing his thumb back and forth on your knuckles. "We can't save them all, I learned that the hard way." Steve said, his features changing as he remembers his life during the war.

"I still lie awake at night, questioning what I could have done to save good men in the line of duty. Back then, I was wondering how their families would find out that their son, their father, their husband, their fiance died to save this country. Even in the 21st century, I start to wonder why we keep on fighting the same battles." Steve sniffles a bit as his thoughts are tormented on how many good people sacrificed their lives.

Steve holds your hand tighter, almost as if he was also reassuring himself. "We're not perfect soldiers, we never were. We pull through, even when it's hard for us to go on. But in order to diminish the guilt, you need to learn to let that go. "

Your lip trembles "Holding on is all I've ever known..." you barely whispered out.

Steve shakes his head in disapproval, holding the sides of your face so you could listen to his next words. "There are so many things that are out of control in this world, I don't want you to spiral into the hole of 'what ifs'. Please, doll... you need to know that it's not your fault."

You close your eyes as more tears roll down your face, but Steve wipes them away for you. You nod your head yes, repeating the word 'okay.' The blonde man kisses your temple and takes in your fresh scent, hugging you like you would disappear in his arms.

Once you both recovered from your conversation, Steve helps you maneuver to lay in your bed as your wounds still affected you. "Promise me you'll go to the infirmary to check that out, I don't like it when I see you like this." Steve scolded you as you gave him a light chuckle.

"I promise I'll do it first thing in the morning. Thank you, for everything." you said before yawning. Once he saw how your eyes fluttered for sleep, he took it as his cue to leave. "Night doll..." He says, tucking away a strand of hair that was in your face and slowly gets up to leave, turning off the light.

"Steve?" you called out to him.

"Can you stay the night, please? I don't want to be alone tonight."

He turns to you, giving you a smile, and goes to the opposite side of your mattress. He takes off his shoes and goes under the covers with you, giving you much support with his body. He kisses your head more endearing and you fall asleep with his arms wrapped protectively around you.

Tonight marked the day where those who have been fighting half of their lifetimes embraced the imperfections of being human:

when there is affliction, there is healing.

[gamesception]

This aspect of Bruce making Cass worse - harder, crueler, more isolated, more disconnected from the people she's supposed to be protecting - it's core to this central juxtoposition between Bruce and Cain. Not just all the ways they, their methods, & the lives they're preparing Cass for are way too alike, but also in their key differences.

David Cain wanted to train a remorseless killer, but, despite the pain and violence of her training, he couldn't stop himself from bonding with her emotionally and treating her with open affection, and so he ended up raising a compassionate, gentle soul, who, once she understood what killing really was, was totally incapable of it. And like, yeah, her 'super empathy' body reading power is a key part of that, but it's also kind of a metaphorical stand in for the same aspect of emotional connections.

Bruce, on the other hand, values her compassion at least on par with her skills. Remember when he was talking about her at the start of issue 4 it was her gentleness specifically, even in the midst of combat, that made her "perfect". He really isn't trying to make her worse, or to make her more 'just like him' than she already is. But he's so emotionally constipated, so cold and indifferent in how he treats others, that he's just not capable of providing the emotional support Cass needs. And Cass herself, due to both her own choices and Bruce's, is completely isolated from anyone else who could provide that emotional support that Bruce can't. At this point she doesn't even have Babs anymore. The result is a slow erasure of her humanity, ironically making her closer to what Cain had meant her to be in the first place.

Cain wanted her to be cruel, but couldn't help but teach her kindness through his warmth and open affection. Bruce values her kindness, but is instead teaching her cruelty through his coldness and emotional distance.

This sort of ironic inversion between David and Bruce underneath all the similarities and parallels between them is super critical to Cass's core characterization, right in there with her guilt in the key parts that make her tick as a character.

In turn that's key to why I was so frustrated with the later flanderization of David Cain into 'just' a flat 2 dimensional abuser and villain who retroactively never showed Cass genuine affection to begin with, something that happened even before Cass's ongoing Batgirl series ended. Also a big part of why modern Cass, who never really had this relationship with either David or Bruce, doesn't quite hit the same for me, even if I'm still glad to have her around.

Sception Reads Cass Cain #32

Batgirl (2000) #14 writer: Puckett pencils: Scott

Different inker this time, John Lowe instead of Campanella. I'm not enough of a connoisseur of comic art to really notice the difference. Honestly, I've been favoring pencil art in this series in general and not really mentioning inker & colorist. Should I be crediting/calling those out specifically? Let me know.

Anyway, we're back to the main series. Last time Cass was riding high after saving a repentant assassin from government agents. It fit more or less right in with the sort of one shot story we've seen a few times in her series, so there really wasn't a reason to expect any follow up from it, though the tone was a notable break from the usual Batgirl benchmark somewhere between sombre and miserable. This time is a return to form.

Before we get into the issue, that note about the tone does tie into that DCWomenKickingAss post that's been making the rounds again recently (link), the one with the interview with Scott Peterson where he describes the original instructions he gave to Kelley Puckett for designing the new batgirl as:

“Hey, new Batgirl. Young–late teens, I think–and Asian. And cheerful and chipper and always up and good natured and she has a complete and total death wish.”

As much as the Cass we got ended up being my favorite comic character ever, it's unfortunate that the 'cheerful, chipper' aspect - which is definitely there in the character, I've talked in previous posts about how much she loves being Batgirl and how critical that is to her character and to the overall themes of the book - is rarely the dominant tone of her ongoing. The quote from Puckett above implies book that on the surface is bright and cheerful, with a subversive undercurrent that fades into the background only to rear up and slap you in the face unexpectedly, where as what we got is an unrelenting 'long darkness of the soul' situation, punctuated by brief flashes of light that more often than not turn out to be the headlights of an oncoming train.

Which brings us back to the current issue.

We start with some government suits watching video of Cass and debating whether she's a metahuman or not, before being surprised by the fact that they have no matching info for her. Still pretty fun and lighthearted, but it does establish the idea that these guys are going to be a problem.

we also re-do the goodbye scene from the end of last issue...

Only this this time Puckett adds this bit where the assassin realizes he'll never get to see his family again, dampening the mood, setting up for what happens to him later, but also putting this divide between himself and Cass. Last time this guy could be read as a sort of self-surrogate for her, someone parallel to her situation as a former assassin, and by saving him Cass was sort of getting the chance to save herself.

Here, though, the guy establishes himself, however briefly, as his own person, with a life and a family. All the things that Cass's unique history and circumstances have denied her.

Things that Barbara is extremely concerned that Cass may have permanently cut herself off from ever having in the future by letting herself be recorded by the government outside of costume.

Cass, of course, can't imagine a future for herself. Because she's going to die within the year when Shiva returns. And because she doesn't want to be anything other than Batgirl. But mostly because deep down she doesn't believe she deserves a life or a future, and doesn't want to think about why that is.

As it is, Cass doesn't think she has any connections, so isn't afraid of losing them.

Bab's dialog implies that she's going to go to Bruce about this thinking maybe he could get through to her, but Bruce, consciously or otherwise, has been actively isolating Cass, so can he really be counted on to prevent her from isolating herself even further?

There's this transition page where Cass wakes up to find Bruce instead of Oracle in the Tower. I don't talk about color much, but Jason Wright does a good job here, the colors not just conveying a transition to night but also the switch to a darker emotional and narrative tone, despite still being all smiles, not knowing what happened.

Just like John way back in issue two, we have another guy who Cass thought she had saved, and let herself feel happy about, only to find out that the villains had come back for them later. And once again it's a pretty gut wrenching twist.

Cass asks Bruce's permission to hurt these people, not just take them down and capture them, but to personally punish them, and he grants it, which is a pretty gross dynamic all round.

Remember this bit from issue 4, when Bruce is talking about how 'perfect' Batgirl was?

Better even than himself, not just as a matter of skill, but more importantly for how she was untainted by any excess cruelty. It's why he was so shocked to find out she might have killed someone, despite knowing Cain had trained her from birth to do just that. It wasn't something that the Cassandra the he knew was capable of. But a few short months working for Batman and...

This isn't 'gentle'. This isn't someone you'd be shocked to find out had killed someone.

Remember this bit from issue 4? Bruce all high and mighty about what David Cain did to Cass. But for all the painful and potentially lethal extremes of his training regimen, and for all the evil he intended her to do, David raised a girl who, once she understood what killing was, chose to abandon her life and her father - despite loving both - rather than kill again.

A few months exposure to Bruce is eroding away the humanity and compassion that compelled her to seek atonement in the first place.

Bruce, his methods, the way he treats his friends and family, he's actively making Cassandra worse.

On the way home Bruce says he's sorry, but it's about what happened to the assassin, he's not sorry for what he's doing to Cassandra himself, what he's taking from her. He's not even done taking things from her this issue, as he doesn't take her back to the clocktower.

Of course. Of course he's fine with throwing away even the possibility of a future independent of him and his mission. You can just imagine how the conversation with Babs went too, at first trying to appeal on Cass's behalf, Bruce just not getting it, switching to practical threats to the mission, how Cass's exposure potentially exposes Oracle, in the hope that he'll respond to that - only for Bruce to respond by taking Cass away entirely, severing the one lonely link to someone who at least tries to care about her as a person in her own right.

When Babs was trying to appeal to Cass earlier, she brushed her off, convinced that she didn't have anything to lose anyway. You can feel the realization dawning on her that yeah, she really did have something to lose.

And the issue ends with this panel that makes her tiny to emphasize how completely isolated she is now.

This issue is a major emotional low point in Cass's early series, maybe *the* major low point. Bruce at his worst, Cass at her most alone.

Things will slowly improve from here, though sadly never in quite the way they needed to, with a direct confrontation of Bruce himself.

[kiwikipedia]

tagged by @certified-anakinfucker oc tag game

i have been trying to post this for like thirty minutes I don't care anymore no more detailed answers I'm going to throw a fit tumblr stop being bad challenge impossible

favorite oc — I do not have one, I love and hate all of them equally (lying)

newest oc — Satori Luong, a Spider-'Sona' who also is known as "Kumo" or "Spider Hunter". They personally call themselves the "Average in Intelligence Spider" when put up against the wall with all the others as they're no genius in any field except for combat and observation. Unable to websling organically, they also never developed any tech to aid them nor can they stick to surfaces, and didn't even realize they were a "super' until Miguel O'Hara showed up. they just assumed their spider-sense was luck and their strength was because their parkour and strength training paid off.

oldest oc — probably a warrior cats or rainbow fairy oc? honestly, I can't remember anything earlier the end of middle school-start of high school era.

meanest oc — Orcin Nauta (SW) hands down. He's a gang boss based off of the Orca Whale, aka the bully of the ocean. He's mean and vicious and also 16 fucking feet tall with a gang family that spans the entire galaxy.

softest oc — Persephone "Seph" Spring (PKMN) probably. Very kind, very gentle, very patient. The perfect balance for her rough-and-tumble cowboy mining boss of a husband tbh

most aloof / standoffish oc — Emilia Lynx (COD, FMAB) without a doubt. It's the trauma babyyyy.

dumbest oc — Ajal Agni (BNHA). Have you seen your foreign-born janitor stick his hand straight into boiling water? WOULD YOU LIKE TO?

smartest oc — Kori Hayashi (Standalone). She's kept her organization at the top of the underground chain for a while, after all. She knows how to play the game, knows which cards to reveal, knows how to keep her men in line, and when to let them loose.

horniest oc — Hakra Dorgoa. I will not explain further than Man Is He Glad That He's Got Strong Mental Walls And Shielding As A Member Of The Temple Guard Or Else Everyone Would Know He's Down Bad For Eeth Koth

oc i’d bang — in reality, none because I'm AroAce, but metaphorically? Ban Sult (SW) because he'd treat me right. Someone had to give Plo Koon unwanted but appreciated and used romantic tips between teaching him how to blast lightning.

oc i’d be besties with irl — Gelaisa Kaliope and Miles "Millie" Shira (Fate). They are two of the most laid-back and chill characters in my folders and have a sick music taste. ngl, they'd probably also just let me nap in a pile of blankets and also under them. Can't have one without the other though.

no pressure tags: @crc-jedi-knight-serushna @alexeithegoat @hotshot9 @spacerocksarethebestrocks @gen-has-green-vibes

[ruvviks]

🌼🌲🍁🌈 for the oc asks for Mikhail?

AAA THANK U SO MUCH!!! picking him up like a mii character as we speak. i am shaking him violently [affectionately]

🌼 what's your favorite thing about this oc?

my favorite thing about mikhail is how much love he has in his heart and how this is visible in pretty much everything he does. he mostly makes decisions with his heart as well (or just follows his loved ones) and is incredibly loyal to the people he cares about; and on top of that, even though he's a mercenary and combat specialist and everything he also went to med school. and is a year away from getting his phd. and because of that he will occasionally after a combat situation just go around the battlefield to check if people are still alive and if they are he'll actually take a moment to stabilize them, no matter what side they're on (of course there's Exceptions to this but like. most gangs are just People you know) and idk!!! i love that about him!!!!

and also just. the way he looks pretty intimidating (1.92 m tall + resting bitch face + kubrick stare when he looks at you without saying a word lmfao) but he's Not... he's so kind and sweet and i'm shaking him again

🌲 what is this oc's greatest strength and weakness?

mikhail's greatest strength is, surprise, his love for his friends. it's what keeps him going and it's what causes him to make the right decisions and it's what keeps him grounded and i'm clearly so so normal about this haha <3 a close second is how versatile he is; both being good at combat as well as medical stuff is perfect for his line of work and it has saved his ass many many times already

his greatest weakness would probably be the fact he's not that great at putting his thoughts into words. he struggles a lot with expressing himself and knows this about himself so he prefers to just keep quiet about it, because he doesn't want to accidentally fuck up and make others upset :// this causes him to leave a lot of things unsaid between himself and others which in the long run. doesn't really work out well for him <3 that's why he and vitali end up having a pretty heated fight at some point (i'm writing the fic i swear it's THERE it's almost done i promise OOF) because mikhail just. decided to not bring any of it up. but now he does and it comes out wrong and it upsets vitali and then he gets upset as well and. well. you know how it goes

he's working on it though!!! and that's again because he loves his friends so much and doesn't want to hurt them so he's actively working on getting better at talking about stuff and his friends know this about him so they're super patient with him as well so like. auuauaua communication am i right <3

🍁 what's this oc's favorite genre of movies/tv shows/books/etc?

mikhail doesn't read a lot because he doesn't have the attention span for it, but when he DOES pick up a book it's usually poetry :) of course it is. classic mikhail

he also rarely watches shows or movies but he really likes sci fi stuff! he just loves space in general :) also documentaries. let this man learn about animals or something he will be sitting there

🌈 what does this oc like and dislike about themselves?

mikhail likes the life he has built for himself :) <3 he's worked very hard to get to the point he is at now and especially considering he's always had a hard time studying and learning things, it's really cool that he managed to get through med school as well as security training and has had business with both kang tao and arasaka (and managed to deceive both of them. he's so sexy) and he would be very proud of that actually :) as he should be. i'm proud of him too

he dislikes his inability to express himself :// it's super frustrating for him because he knows how important communication is, especially in his current living situation (third wheeling vincent and vitali as their roommate but like in a Good way not a Bad way don't worry LOL), and just. not being able to put your thoughts into words is so difficult to deal with LOL but again, he's working on it <3 it's all good <3

oc asks!

[weirdratwrites]

Like, okay. We can look at it two ways.

First is structure, second is worldbuilding.

The OG trilogy is what I consider to be a pretty stereotypical wuxia story. Po's place at the end of the third and throughout the fourth are where it develops into a proper xianxia story. Plus, you know, there's various points where tropes come up throughout the story (such as Crane having an attack called "Wings of Justice" that he calls out or the existence of the Wuxi Fingerhold).

Include Legends of Awesomeness and you've got one of those stories with hundred of fluff chapters between major events.

First Movie: Po is a weakling disciple, inducted due to circumstance, who's actually capable when motivated properly and has secret techniques due to his heritage that can only be brought to bare if he acts in a manner different from other disciples, which causes some amount of friction with the character that would be an obvious love interest if they weren't different species. Once his teacher stops being such a hater, he advances quickly until he's capable of defeating a former disciple of the Sect that has turned to demonic techniques and cultivation. This earns him the respect of his fellow disciples as well as the various inhabitants of the outer sect (the valley of peace). First named attack!

Second Movie: Po is unsure of his position despite being reassured that he's earned it. He's sent with the rest of the core disciples of the Jade Palace to Gongmen City as peacekeepers after the exiled former heir to the city returns with a "secret weapon" that's "stronger than kung fu" to get back at... everyone(?) for not being okay with his genocide of Po's ancestors. Their first conflict is a total beatdown, and it's only after Po confronts his past and achieves inner peace that he's able to truly fight back against Shen's "secret weapon". Also, more love interest things between him and Tigress. Second named attack!

Third Movie: Oogway had a sworn brother who fell to the corrupting influence of demonic cultivation (woo)! And he's back (yay)! And he's pissed (oof)! He uses full-blown qi techniques to put Po and the Five on the backfoot the entire time. Po does well to show how effective his heritage is - while reconnecting with it - by training an ad-hoc militia of low-level cultivators who all flourish under the same motivational techniques he has. They're able to beat back Kai's Bullshit with their own Panda Bullshit! Then Po ascends to the next rank in cultivation by self-sacrifice and gains the full abilities of a qi-using cultivator that lets him summon qi dragons and shit. He beats Kai like a red-headed stepchild after the fact and gets his own Super Cool King Fu Walking Stick.

Fourth Move: We're now firmly in xianxia territory. Po's full adapted to his role and is being pushed to be a teacher in his own right. He regularly uses qi techniques and has surpassed his master in terms of available abilities, if not actual experience or skill. His newest enemy is what really pushes it to xianxia, though: a qi sorceress shapeshifter that's captured the souls of past martial arts masters to fuel her capabilities as a combatant, stealing their most well-known techniques for herself. Po wraps it up figuring out the whole... "teaching" thing is as much about learning as it is passing on knowledge. A perfect start to a Next Generation or a saga ending in Po ascending even further (immortal cultivator Po, anyone?).

Thinking about how KFP is a wuxia/xianxia story... Stressing out about it.

Well, more wuxia until 3-ish, then it's pretty xianxia.