#this finale was like 15 consecutive shots to the heart

[anony-mouse-writer]

Okay, but can we talk about how this season had the MOST solid teams? For a season that started episode 1 with barely any concrete alliances, by the end of the season, almost every team was in ride-or-die mode to an extent that we usually only see from one or two factions at most in other seasons.

cletho enjoyers have been having a field day over here with cleo and etho’s run at painting the town and grian was the only one who listened to etho when he said that they were outnumberedd and outgunned and sacrificed himself with the intent to get gem into manageable territory for everyone else.

the mounders went into the last battle together and joel and bdubs died in the same fight, barely blocks from each other. pearl, who’d spent the entire last episode telling the boys not to die on her and offering they kill her when she got low, was the last survivor and was Very Not Okay with it.

the heart foundation was a bit funny, cuz bigb was always one foot out the door, so his ‘do you have an alliance/ ehhhh’ while they lived was fairly on brand, but tango betrayed scar and walked knowingly into his death with him because he wouldn’t betray skizz.

gem and the scotts were, of course, ride or die from day one. even with scott doing his social gaming and gem’s apocalypse, scott and impulse both gave her their yellow lives and scott gave her his red as well.

and even, in the end, scar, who’d gotten genuine offers of alliance from 3/4 of the factions and denied them all for one reason or another, still ended up teaming with pearl at the end and managed a heartbreaking final fight.

[hornyfor-redacted-onmain]

Bamboozled

Pieces of My Heart - Chapter 15 Stray Kids OT8 x reader, Soulmate AU

Masterlist | Next Part

The next morning was spent doing errands. You woke up to a few good morning texts that made you smile, and you let them know you were heading out to the store down the street. The street was slightly busy as it was early morning on a weekday, but it wasn’t crowded.

You managed to make it through the store with little to no issues, only slightly panicked when you messed up while thanking the cashier, but thankfully she brushed off the error and wished you a nice day.

Soulmates

Y/N Guess who only slightly embarrassed themselves at the grocery store ^^ Img.png Felix Oh no, what happened? Y/N Tried to say thank you. Accidentally said you’re welcome. Felix ∠ ( ´• ０ •`) 〴 Han Damn, that’s so embarrassing For you For me it’s hilarious Y/N ( ⇀ ╭╮↼ ) Chan Glad you’re back safe Sorry to hear about you embarrassing moment Minho Poor Jagiya RIP your dignity Funeral will be held at 8pm           Y/N ( ง •` ⎽ ´• ) ง

You got back to your apartment and began putting things away only an hour after leaving, which left you with plenty of time to sort out all the things you had planned for the day, starting with your assignments for the week.

You received a text as you began to set up your computer and pull out the books you had bought only a week before you got onto the plane, but you forget about them for a few seconds and it isn’t until you get 6 consecutive notifications that you finally pull out your phone.

Changbin Hey, do you mind doing me a favor? Y/N Hmmm, depends on the favor

The other texts you received were a couple photos and selfies sent by Jeongin, and you smiled as you looked through a few of them. Most of them were obviously taken without the members’ knowledge, and you shamelessly saved a few of them and used your favorite selfie as your phone wallpaper.

Changbin Channie-hyung made plans to work later tonight, despite my best efforts to convince him to take a day off. You mind giving it a shot? Y/N What makes you think he’d listen to me? Changbin I figured you could persuade him more effectively. Y/N Hmmm. I might have some ideas in mind. Changbin Oh? Thought about it before, huh? Y/N NOT LIKE THAT! Get your mind out of the gutter! Changbin Kkkkk As long as it gets him to bed before midnight, I don’t care what you do. Y/N ( ￣ ^ ￣ ) ゞ

You then decided to thank Jeongin for the pictures by making yourself a breakfast full of his favorite foods, settling down at your desk while you ate to go through your email before you got started on your homework. You set a timer for 2 hours, working through as much work as you could with a few breaks in between, and pretty soon your alarm went off.

Double checking it was around lunchtime, you sent a quick message.

Y/N Are you busy right now? Chan Hmm, having a quick lunch with the boys. Why? Is everything okay? Y/N Can I call? Want to hear your voice.

Instead of a reply, you received a call from him, which you received with a smile.

“Well, someone was quite eager,” You teased.

“What can I say. I missed you too.”

“You saw me yesterday.”

“Hmm, but that was over 24 hours ago. It’s a long time to be away from my girlfriend.”

You let out a laugh. “Girlfriend? Awfully sure of yourself considering you haven’t actually asked me yet.”

“I haven’t. But a little birdie told me Seungmin already asked for us.”

“Oh?” You began to pace your room. “Doesn’t that technically mean only Seungmin’s my boyfriend?”

“Haven’t you realized sweetheart? We’re a package deal.”

That made you pause, and you were suddenly grateful that this conversation was taking place over the phone and not in person, because it allowed you to ignore your suddenly hot cheeks and act as if you were as confident as you wished you could be.

“Well, in that case, I think I deserve a nice night in with my lovely boyfriend. What do you say, want to hang out tonight?”

There was a pause on his end, and you could just about make out the distant chatter from the other boys. “I don’t know. I had some ideas I wanted to flesh out while they were still fresh …”

“Shoot. Are you sure I can’t convince you to change your mind? I was really looking forward to getting to spend some time with you.” You dropped your voice down to a seductive tone. “I promise I’ll make it worth your time.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah, I have some ideas in mind.”

“What kind of ideas?”

“Good food, good company, and a good night’s sleep. What more could you possible want?”

“That sounds like heaven,” He said with a smile in his voice. “I’ll agree on one condition.”

“Hmm?”

“Tell me which one of the boys put you up to this.”

You snickered. “Please don’t kill my boyfriends, babe. I prefer to have them around just a little longer.”

“Oh no, I mean to thank them. I was planning on spending the night with you anyways, as an apology for missing dinner last night, but I figured I could get a better deal if I convinced the others that I was going to work tonight-“ He trailed off.

Your mouth dropped open in shock. “You planned this!?”

“I planned on someone snitching on me.” His own voice suddenly dropped, and you felt shivers roll down your spine. “Getting to hear you practically begging for me? Oh honey, that was just the cherry on top.”

“You little shit,” You snapped back breathlessly.

Chan let out a chuckle. “I’ll see you tonight sweetheart.”

“My place or yours?” You wondered, twirling around on your spot with a smile.

“My place. If I have you all alone, I won’t be able to keep my hands to myself.”

“I wouldn’t mind,” You teased. “But your place it is. See you later, alligator.”

“In a while, crocodile.”

-0-0-

Y/N You’re too predictable And apparently, so am I :( Changbin ??

-0-0-

Using the key you had been given just the day before, you made your way into an uneasily quiet apartment. It felt wrong to be there by yourself, but you had a plan for a perfect evening, and part of that part was making sure that you had a nice warm meal waiting for you boys when they got back home.

You were planning on something simple, but also something you were sure everyone would like. You didn’t know if everyone would come around for dinner or if it would just be the 4 who lived there, so you made enough for 9 people and figured if there were leftovers they could always eat tomorrow.

And your timing was nearly spot on, because just as you lowered the heat to leave the food warm, you heard the front door click open. There was a soft chatter and a surprised hum from behind you, and you turned around with a smile.

“Dinner’s ready if you guys are hungry,” you said, and Jisung waddled over to you with a tired smile.

“Hi baby,” he said, wrapping his arms around you.

“Miss me?” You teased.

“Always.” He hooked his chin onto your shoulder, and you felt an arm reach out to pull the lid off the pan on the stove. “Ooh, whats this?”

“Chicken parm. You hungry?”

“Ahhh, you made food!?” Changbin’s loud yell made you jump, and you peeked around Jisung to wave at the other three who were piling into the kitchen.

“It’s ready, if you guys want to eat.”

You received a loud overlapping rumble of confirmation from 3 of the boys, and Chan gave you a knowing look when you winced at the sudden pitch in noise. He mouthed what you assumed was ‘thank you’, but you had to quickly look away to keep Hyunjin from dropping the plates he had been trying to grab despite you and Jisung standing in his way.

Jisung whined when you pulled away, and it was only with a promise to sit next to him that you managed to wrangle them all to the table.

The rest of the meal was surprisingly silent as the boys ate. You could tell they were tired, and you were thankful that Chan wasn’t going to actually be working late that night because he looked like he needed a good night’s sleep more than anyone.

“I’ll clean up,” You reassured the others when they finished. “You guys go get ready for bed.”

“Are you staying?!” Hyunjin piped up, giving you a pleading look.

“Sorry Hyunnie, I called dibs,” Chan said, patting the young dancer on the shoulder.

Changbin gave you a sour look and you laughed, knowing that he had undoubtedly asked Chan about your cryptic text and realized you had both been bamboozled.

Jisung let out a yell. “No fair! Why do you get to spend the night with them?”

“Yeah! What if I get lonely tonight?”

“Ah, Hyunjinnie! You can stay with me if you want!” Changbin chimed in.

Hyunjin made a face, leaning away from Changbin who was now making kissy faces, and shooting you a pleading look. You grabbed his plate and escaped into the kitchen, the sound of chairs scratching along the floor and pounding footsteps echoing down the halls.

“Everyday,” Chan sighed, joining you at the sink and placing his plate on the counter.

You glanced at him, smile tugging at your lips. “You poor boy. You look like you need a break.”

“Hmm, good thing I have a perfect escape,” He whispered, wrapping his arms around your waist.

The heat from his body soaked through your shirt and you leaned back, pausing in your dish washing to appreciate the feeling of content you experienced being in his arms, and you knew he felt it too when he slumped against you as his muscles relaxed. He pressed a kiss to your shoulder, grip tightening for a split second before he pulled away.

“Move over,” He said, bumping you with his hip. “Let me help.”

“You don’t have to,” You reassured him. “I know you’re tired.”

“The quicker we finish this, the quicker I get to have you in my bed.”

You flushed at the subtle innuendo he dropped on you, and if it wasn’t for the giggle that escaped him when he realized it too, you would have thought it was on purpose. You bumped him back and the two of you made quick work of the dishes.

-0-0-

Something nudged your shoulder, and you jolted awake with a sudden inhale of air. There was a blurry smudge of a person leaning over you, and your heart was beating loudly in your ears until your eyes adjusted to the dark and you realized that the smudge was Jisung, frozen with his eyes wide at having been caught. You let out the breath you had been holding.

“Sungie,” You groaned, and Chan shifted from behind you. “Seriously?”

“I was hoping you wouldn’t notice until tomorrow.”

You closed your eyes, lifting up the blanket in a silent invitation, and Jisung took the win with grace as he slid under the covers. Chan huffed out a laugh in realization, warm air hitting the back of your neck. Jisung pressed his back against your front, and you wrapped your arms around him, the warmth from both sides slowly pulling you back to sleep.

[frontproofmedia]

Canelo Alvarez: The Undisputed King Of Boxing

By: Joseph Correa

Canelo Alvarez: The Undisputed King of the Ring

In the neon-lit heart of Las Vegas, where dreams are made and broken in the blink of an eye, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez once again proved why he's the undisputed monarch of the boxing world. The Mexican superstar's latest conquest? A dominant victory over Edgar Berlanga, adding another jewel to his already glittering crown.

The Fight: A Display of Mastery

The air crackled with anticipation as the bell rang to signal the start of the bout. The crowd, a sea of red, white, and green - the colors of the Mexican flag - roared as their hero made his way to the ring. Berlanga, the young lion from Brooklyn with dynamite in his fists, entered with dreams of dethroning the king. But Canelo, as he has done time and time again, had other plans.

The fight was a masterclass in the sweet science. Canelo's footwork was poetry in motion, his defense impenetrable, and his offense surgically precise. In the third round, a left hook crashed into Berlanga's chin with the force of a freight train, sending the challenger to the canvas. The crowd erupted, their collective gasp turning into a thunderous cheer. It was a moment that encapsulated Canelo's career – power, timing, and technique, all rolled into one devastating punch.

Berlanga, to his credit, showed heart. He rose from the canvas, determination etched on his face, and adjusted his strategy. The Brooklyn native managed to hear the final bell, earning respect from both Canelo and the crowd. But the outcome was never in doubt. Canelo's victory was comprehensive, a unanimous decision that left no room for debate.

The Reign Continues

This victory marks Canelo's fourth consecutive win since his lone setback against Dmitry Bivol in 2022. At 34 years old, when many fighters begin to decline, Canelo seems to be aging like fine wine. His skills are sharper than ever, his ring IQ unmatched, and his hunger for greatness undiminished.

"Now what are they going to say?" Canelo asked defiantly in his post-fight interview, a mix of pride and frustration in his voice. "I fight younger fighters. They say I fight older fighters. They always talk. ... My experience, my talent, my hard work, my intelligence, everything together [makes me the best]."

Indeed, what more can be said about a man who has conquered four weight divisions, held multiple world championships, and consistently taken on all comers? Canelo's resume reads like a who's who of boxing's elite – Floyd Mayweather Jr., Gennadiy Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, Amir Khan, and now Edgar Berlanga. Each fight and victory has been another brick in the monument to his greatness.

The Road to Greatness

To truly appreciate Canelo's dominance, one must understand his journey. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Saul Alvarez began boxing at the tender age of 13. His distinctive red hair earned him the nickname "Canelo," Spanish for cinnamon. Little did anyone know that this redheaded teenager would grow to become one of the most feared and respected fighters in the world.

Canelo turned pro at 15, fighting grown men when most boys his age were worried about high school dances. He honed his craft in the unforgiving rings of Mexico, developing the granite chin, thunderous body shots, and relentless work ethic that would become his trademarks.

His ascent through the ranks was meteoric. By 20, he had captured his first world title. By 23, he faced the legendary Floyd Mayweather in a super fight that shattered pay-per-view records. Though he lost that night, Canelo used the experience as fuel, transforming himself from a good fighter into a great one.

The Future: New Challenges and Fan Demands

Even as Canelo basks in the glow of his latest triumph, new challenges loom on the horizon. The boxing world is abuzz with potential matchups that could further cement his legacy.

A rematch with Dmitry Bivol, the only man to defeat Canelo in recent years, is a tantalizing prospect. If Bivol can overcome the fearsome Artur Beterbiev in their upcoming light heavyweight unification bout, a second clash with Canelo could be one for the ages. The first fight saw Bivol outbox Canelo, handing him a rare defeat. A rematch would offer Canelo a chance at redemption and the opportunity to prove he can adapt and overcome a stylistic nightmare.

Then there's the intriguing possibility of a showdown with Terence Crawford, the pound-for-pound king of the welterweight division. Crawford, who was ringside for Canelo's victory over Berlanga, has made no secret of his desire to move up in weight and challenge the Mexican superstar.

"I feel like it's a legacy fight and I feel like it's a fight that I can actually win," Crawford said of a potential bout with Canelo. "I've always been a smaller guy. In every weight class that I ever competed in, everybody always said I was too small for this guy, too small for that guy, and I always been successful in the fight. Being bigger don't win fights. So my skills pay the bills and my skills got me this far."

A Canelo-Crawford fight would be a boxing purist's dream, pitting two of the sport's most skilled technicians against each other in a battle for supremacy. It would also offer Canelo a chance to prove he can handle an elite boxer with supreme skills, even if Crawford would be moving up in weight for the bout.

The People's Fight: The Clamor for Benavidez

However, there's another name on the lips of many boxing fans – David Benavidez, the undefeated former super middleweight champion known as the "Mexican Monster." With each passing fight, the clamor for a Canelo-Benavidez showdown has grown louder.

"Benavidez is the fight the fans want to see," says Jose Ramirez, a boxing trainer from Los Angeles. "He's young, he's undefeated, and he's got that Mexican style that would make for an all-out war with Canelo. It's the kind of fight that could define both men's legacies."

Social media has been ablaze with calls for the fight. One viral tweet read: "Canelo vs Benavidez. Make it happen. For the culture. For the fans. For boxing."

Benavidez himself has been vocal about wanting the fight. "I've earned my shot," he said in a recent interview. "I'm not afraid of Canelo. I respect him, but I believe I have what it takes to beat him. The fans deserve this fight."

For his part, Canelo has been noncommittal about a potential Benavidez bout. When asked about it in the post-fight press conference, he said, "I'll fight whoever my team thinks is the best option. I've never ducked anyone, and I never will."

This response has only fueled the debate among fans and pundits alike. Some see it as Canelo being strategic, while others interpret it as hesitation to face a younger, hungry challenger.

The Legacy of a Champion

As Canelo continues to etch his name in the annals of boxing history, comparisons to the all-time greats become inevitable. Is he the best Mexican fighter ever, surpassing legends like Julio Cesar Chavez and Salvador Sanchez? Has he already secured his place on boxing's Mount Rushmore alongside Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Robinson, and Roberto Duran?

These questions will be debated in bars, gyms, and living rooms for years to come. But what's undeniable is the impact Canelo has had on the sport. He's not just a fighter; he's a cultural icon, a source of pride for millions of Mexicans and Mexican-Americans, and a global superstar who transcends boxing.

In an era where many bemoan the decline of boxing, Canelo Alvarez stands as a beacon of hope. His combination of skill, power, and charisma harks back to the sport's golden ages, reminding us why they call it the sweet science.

The Human Behind the Champion

Behind the accolades and the championships, Canelo remains grounded. Those close to him speak of a man dedicated to his family, passionate about giving back to his community, and always striving to improve.

"People see the glamour, the titles, the money," says his longtime trainer, Eddy Reynoso. "But they don't see the 5 AM runs, the grueling sparring sessions, the sacrifices he makes every day. Canelo's success isn't an accident. It's the result of relentless dedication."

This dedication extends beyond the ring. Canelo has established foundations to help underprivileged youth in Mexico, providing educational and athletic opportunities. "I remember what it was like to have nothing," Canelo once said. "If I can help even one kid achieve their dreams, then all of this has been worth it."

The Reign Continues

As the sun sets on another victorious night in Las Vegas, one thing is clear: the reign of Canelo Alvarez is far from over. The king of the ring still sits firmly on his throne, daring anyone brave enough to try and take his crown. And for fight fans worldwide, that means many more nights of boxing brilliance.

In the ever-evolving saga of boxing, Canelo Alvarez continues to write new chapters, each more compelling than the last. Whether his next opponent is Bivol in a high-stakes rematch, Crawford in a clash of pound-for-pound greats, Benavidez in a fan-demanded showdown, or someone else entirely, one thing is sure – the boxing world will be watching, holding its collective breath, as the redheaded kid from Guadalajara steps into the ring once more.

Long may he reign. But as the calls for new challenges grow louder, particularly for a showdown with Benavidez, Canelo knows that to remain on top, he must continue to prove himself against the best. The next chapter in his storied career promises to be as thrilling as the last.

Feature Photo: Rey Del Rio/Premier Boxing Champions

[sportyconnect]

When it comes to basketball, few names are as synonymous with greatness as Michael Jordan. His impact on the sport is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to influence players today. But just how many years did Jordan grace the NBA with his presence? Let's dive into the illustrious career of this basketball legend. The Early Years Michael Jordan began his NBA career in 1984, after being selected by the Chicago Bulls as the third overall pick in the NBA Draft. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award. "I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." - Michael Jordan From the outset, Jordan's height, athleticism, and competitive spirit set him apart. His ability to score, defend, and lead his team was evident from his first season in the league. The Championship Years Jordan's first NBA Championship came in the 1990-1991 season. This marked the beginning of a dominant run for the Bulls, who won three consecutive championships from 1991 to 1993. Jordan was the driving force behind these victories, earning the NBA Finals MVP award each year. After a brief retirement and stint in minor league baseball, a story you can read more about here, Jordan returned to the NBA in 1995. He led the Bulls to another three consecutive championships from 1996 to 1998, again earning the NBA Finals MVP award each year. The Final Years Jordan retired for the second time after the 1998 season, but he couldn't stay away from the game for long. He returned to the NBA in 2001 as a player for the Washington Wizards, where he played for two seasons before retiring for good in 2003. The Legacy In total, Michael Jordan played 15 seasons in the NBA, with 13 seasons with the Chicago Bulls and 2 seasons with the Washington Wizards. His career was marked by 6 NBA Championships, 5 MVP awards, 14 All-Star appearances, and countless other accolades. Jordan's impact on the game of basketball extends far beyond his time on the court. His shoe line with Nike revolutionized the sneaker industry, and he is currently the owner of the Charlotte Hornets, continuing to influence the NBA from the sidelines. The Influence of Michael Jordan Michael Jordan's influence on the game of basketball is immeasurable. His style of play, his competitiveness, and his will to win set a new standard for what it meant to be an NBA player. He was not just a player; he was a phenomenon that transcended the sport. Jordan's influence can be seen in today's players. Many of the game's biggest stars, like LeBron James and Kevin Durant, have spoken about how Jordan inspired them. His competitive spirit, his dedication to the game, and his relentless pursuit of excellence are qualities that every player strives to emulate. "I've always believed that if you put in the work, the results will come. I don't do things half-heartedly. Because I know if I do, then I can expect half-hearted results." - Michael Jordan The Impact of Michael Jordan Beyond his influence on individual players, Jordan's impact on the NBA as a whole cannot be overstated. He was instrumental in popularizing the NBA around the world. His exciting style of play and charismatic personality made him a global icon, and he brought the NBA to an international audience. Jordan's impact was also felt off the court. His partnership with Nike led to the creation of the Air Jordan brand, which revolutionized the sneaker industry. Even today, Air Jordans remain some of the most popular and sought-after sneakers in the world. You can read more about the impact of Jordan's shoe line here. The Legacy of Michael Jordan Michael Jordan's legacy is one of excellence, competitiveness, and influence. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and his impact on the game is still felt today.

Whether it's through the players he inspired, the global popularity of the NBA, or the success of the Air Jordan brand, Jordan's influence is undeniable. The Enduring Influence of Michael Jordan Michael Jordan's influence continues to reverberate throughout the NBA and the world of sports. His name is synonymous with greatness, and his legacy is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Today, many young players entering the NBA still look up to Jordan. They study his games, emulate his moves, and aspire to achieve the level of success he enjoyed during his career. His influence extends beyond the basketball court, inspiring athletes in various sports to strive for greatness. "Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen." - Michael Jordan The Legacy of Air Jordan The Air Jordan brand, a result of Jordan's partnership with Nike, continues to be a major force in the sneaker industry. The brand has transcended the world of sports to become a cultural icon, influencing fashion trends and becoming a symbol of status and style. The enduring popularity of Air Jordan sneakers is a testament to Jordan's lasting impact. You can read more about the impact of Jordan's shoe line here. The Future of Basketball and Michael Jordan's Influence As we look to the future of basketball, it's clear that Michael Jordan's influence will continue to be felt. The next generation of players will continue to look up to him, study his game, and aspire to achieve the level of success he enjoyed. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence, shaping the future of the sport he loved. In conclusion, Michael Jordan's 15-year NBA career left an indelible mark on the sport of basketball. His influence extends far beyond his time on the court, shaping the game as we know it today and inspiring generations of players to come. His legacy is a testament to his talent, his work ethic, and his unwavering desire to win. For more insights into the world of basketball and other sports, check out our SportyConnect website, your go-to resource for the latest and most accurate news for any sports organization. #SportyConnect

[utopiaskids]

Pacers come from behind to defeat Bulls after 24-point lead

The Chicago Bulls fell to a fifth consecutive loss after blowing a 24-point lead against the Indiana Pacers, losing 117-113 in their latest NBA fixture. The Bulls had been looking to snap their losing streak and make a statement without the services of All-Star DeMar DeRozan, who was sidelined due to a Grade 1 quad strain. However, they ultimately suffered another second-half collapse as the Pacers rallied to snatch a dramatic victory. Chicago coach Billy Donovan called for more heart and focus from his team in crunch moments, urging his players to execute more precisely on both ends of the court. Without DeRozan, the Bulls needed someone to step up and play like an All-Star, and Zach LaVine did his best to fill the void. The guard put up an impressive 35 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, but his final efforts to give his team a vital win came up short. LaVine missed a potential game-winning shot and then airballed a three-pointer on the Bulls' final possession of the game. The Bulls had made a strong start to the game, outscoring the Pacers 39-15 in the opening quarter. However, they failed to sustain their momentum as they lost the next two quarters, with the Pacers wiping out their 23-point third-quarter lead. Buddy Hield was the main man responsible for Indiana's comeback, scoring 19 of his 27 points in the third period alone, including a buzzer-beating three-pointer. Despite the loss, the Bulls showed some encouraging signs in the game. Alex Caruso stepped in for DeRozan and played with the same defensive ferocity that has become his trademark, while the team's young players also made important contributions. Chicago forced 19 Pacers turnovers, with Caruso, Coby White, and Patrick Williams all recording multiple steals. The team also found their three-point shooting form, going 15-for-35 from beyond the arc. The Bulls will hope to regroup during the All-Star break after their game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday. LaVine emphasized the importance of the break in giving the team a mental rest and recharging their batteries ahead of the second half of the season. However, they will need to address their second-half woes and find a way to close out games more effectively if they are to achieve their goals this season. Read the full article

[cinderspots]

LEGENDS AU -

1. The legends consist of a dark legend, light legend, ice legend, fire legend, and electricity legend. Dark will be Anne. Light will be Jane. Ice will be Cathy. Fire will be Anna. Electricity will be Catherine. Ice’s opposite is either red or orange but after being kidnapped and genetically altered Kat is now purple and free from her predisposed destiny causing her to instead befriend the legends. But this chapter will purely be retelling the folk lore of the legends, referring to each legend as their consecutive powers.

2. The six go to a special school filled with people who have the gene to be legends, but are chosen by upper beings. The school principal brings the yin and yang bombs that cause whoever is chosen to briefly be in pain and for their power to surge. Jane and Anne collapse on the floor before their mark appears on their cheek and their black [anne] and white [jane] wings appear. Jane and Catherine had previously been best friends but after becoming a legend Jane leaves her behind causing her to become bitter.

3. Anna is bullied a lot and she loses her temper finally, causing a demonic tail and horns to appear and for her fire powers to spark and her mark to appear as well.

4. Catherine’s father is a drunk and abusive and one day she can’t take anymore and she runs. It’s storming outside and she makes it a few miles before she collapses in a ditch. Lightning builds above her but she stays oblivious until she can hear it and she looks up before it strikes her, causing her powers to emerge as well as her mark. She super speeds her way back home before publicly super speeds her way to school later on, announcing her legend status. However she is extremely bitter towards Jane still and refuses to talk to her and is downright cruel to her at times, but she befriends Anna

5. Cathy has had her powers since she was a small child but her parents made her hide them, causing her to become more quiet. After her father beat her mother to death she shot him in revenge and became homeless. She befriends Kat though, but one day Catherine and Jane both team up on her, Catherine having forgotten what it felt like to be normal and she loses her temper, causing her powers to surge before her alternate personality comes out, causing her eyes to turn red and she attempts to murder the two.

6. Kat shows up and protects them, lighting a purple fire with a flick of her newly revealed tail. She’s captain of the cheer team, and Cathy’s best friend but she fights off her other personality ‘Raven’ before Cathy resubmerges and has a breakdown, her mark on full display. She refuses to join the legends in an act of revenge for all they’ve done to her, but Kat convinces her to join. Cut to Cathy’s head where we formally meet Raven, and two other personalities named Samantha and Catherine (much to her annoyance). Samantha is a form created for water purposes, Catherine for air purposes, and Raven for defensive and more violent purposes, while Cathy is the main and ice.

7. The six all get to know each other.

8. Kat trains them in combat before putting them through trials designed specifically for their powers. Catherine goes through a labyrinth made of ice that also puts enemies and after a few minutes adds a poisonous darkness that makes it so she can’t stop or turn around. Anne goes through a few challenges of stealth and light. Jane goes through more offensive challenges against mannequins made of darkness. Anna goes through a few ice challenges and Cathy goes through fire challenges.

9. Their ‘sidekicks’ make their entrance. Catherine’s sidekick, Maria, has matter manipulation and time manipulation powers. Anne’s sidekick, Maggie, has powers over emotional love, but can also affect other emotions. Jane’s sidekick, Joan, was a hydra capable of multiplying herself as well as greek fire. Anna’s sidekick, Bessie, is capable of telling the future. Cathy’s sidekick, turns out to be her supposed dead mother (Maud) who was brought back to life and was able to communicate with animals and the dead.

10. They fight against their opposites, dark versions of them that represent the complete opposite and their worst fear. Bessie has a vision of how all of them die, but stays quiet.

11. Kat’s past as a kidnapped expiramentee is revealed as well as her rape and abuse past.

12. Their big challenge appears and they’re forced to go on a magic journey throughout the world to face down opponents meant for each opposite. Yin and Yang are sent into the clouds to fight a dragon that changes skins to absorb their attacks and it ends up eating Jane briefly after ripping her wings off before Anne forces the dragon to throw her back up and heals her wings back on. Fire and Ice go to a Tundra and Dessert and fight off opposites before Anna gets blinded and Cathy ends up fighting both sides before her throat gets slit. She cheats death by freezing her blood in place briefly until she can finish fighting. Electricity and Kat who was recently revealed to be the paragon of the long lost lust, part of the emotion family. They nickname themselves as creed when Catherine reveals that she too went through an assassin program against her will in a brief heart to heart about her past at being briefly stranded on an island and taken prisoner on many ships and places before a dragon appears. They almost win when the dragon unexpectedly shoots spikes from their tail, impaling Catherine's stomach and causing her to begin to bleed out, and Kat has to beat it by herself.

13. Everyone regroups and Jane heals everyone, starting with Cathy, then Catherine, and then Anna, then she does the rest of the group. They realize that the marks that were glowing in the sky that represented the time of the legends now had a new one, purple to represent kat who would now start the line of the combat experts. 

14. They arrive at their final destination where they meet Henry, the immortal, he’s been going against legends for centuries and he tricks all of them but Kat, who’s new, into draining themselves of power and giving it to him, but the previous legends visit all of them while Kat defends them. They get advice from their predecessors while Kat and the sidekicks keep Henry in line. They all wake up and have a power surge causing them to briefly overpower him before he surges back up and forces them down. They realize the machine that they were just hooked up to was the key to putting him down but they need someone to absorb the dark energy, and power the immobilizer. Anna is sent to find a better power source since the one already in place was failing. Henry is immobilized and he watches them all scramble to turn the machine off. The absorber fails and so Anne locks herself in the room and begins to absorb the dark energy. Catherine detached the power source and hooks herself up. Both start to glow from over power and burn from the inside out due to the power filling them. Anna comes back empty handed when a tremor shakes the cavern and the rocks above her fall on top of her. Jane is begging both Anne and Catherine to stop and let them find a new way when they both dissolve, and Jane is suddenly hit by a jagged rock falling and it goes through her cleanly, effectively killing her as well. Cathy and Kat are horrified and Kat realizes that Cathy is going to lose it and we see that every single ice legend has watched their other legends die and immediately reacted badly with a power surge. Before Kat can stop her Cathy screams and shoots ice everywhere, turning the machine off, but sending the entire human race back to the ice age. Kat survives, but Cathy does not.

15. Epilogue

[blueaura]

Don’t Get Caught

A/N: Hey everyone, hope y’all are doing well. I wrote this little fic one-shot thingy for @crashdevlin​‘s 3k review challenge. I got prompt #13. Big congratulations to Cassie for hitting 3k followers! Hope Dean somewhat likes this fic.

Summary: Sam and Dean are hunters, but what if Y/N doesn’t want to be one?

Word count : 2.9k

“What’s for dinner tonight? If you say burgers again, I will tell Sam and then you’ll have to little with the ‘eat healthy’ lecture again.” You walked into the kitchen, peering over Dean’s shoulder to look at what he was making. “As much as I love your burgers, we’ve had them four days in a row and if I see another one today, I’m gonna actually throw up.”

“I liked it better when you didn’t snark back. Now it’s like living with teenage Sam all over again. Teenagers are the fucking worst,” Dean lightly quipped back giving you a look that confirmed he was just teasing. “And it’s chicken pasta tonight, you little monster. I can switch things up every once in a while.”

“You liked me better when I was too scared to offend you in case you threw me out?” you deadpanned, quirking an eyebrow at Dean. He gave you a look. He clearly didn’t appreciate your humour regarding your rough start with them.

You met Sam and Dean on a hunt. They were appalled that a 15-year-old was hunting alone and basically forced their way into your life. Dean, specially, refused to leave you alone, no matter how many times you pushed him away. Your parents had been hunters and not the most affectionate people, so when pushing the Winchesters away had failed and they had successfully wormed their way into your heart, you were so scared that the first real family you had was going to abandon you if you weren’t enough, you didn’t dare place a toe out of the imaginary line you had created for yourself. It took a long time for them to get you to open up to them and come out of your shell. You never knew why they chose you. From what you knew, they had met other hunter kids before but for some reason, instead of pawning you off to the first responsible adult who could keep you safe, they welcomed you into their life and their home. Your home, you reminded yourself.

“Pasta sounds great. You’re gonna make me fat with all your cooking you know. I’ll have to start running with Sam. I hate running with Sam,” you whined, changing the subject before Dean could start reprimanding you.

“Everybody hates running with Sam,” Dean said, letting go of your previous comment. “And you’re healthy, which is all that matters. I don’t want you thinking about getting fat, you do enough exercise to balance out your eating habits.”

You rolled your eyes. For a guy who claimed to hate ‘chick-flick’ moments, Dean Winchester sure initiated a whole lot of them. Dean lightly clipped you in the back of your head when he saw you shrugging of his words of wisdom. You could see he was gearing up for another lecture. He was such a dad.

“Where’s Sam anyway?”

Dean clearly knew what you were doing but he let you have your moment of victory anyway. If he had learned anything in the past 2 years with you, it was to pick his battles. So, he let it go. For now.

Sam came back in time for dinner. It was one of Dean’s new rules. If you were not on a case, dinner was family time and everyone had to eat at the table. Sam agreed. While Dean acted more like a dad than Sam, the younger Winchester was just as bad. You remembered when Sam accidentally found the pack of condoms in your room. You winced at the memory. There had been a lot of yelling, followed by an awkward conversation about being safe. It was traumatic for all parties involved and you both mutually decided not to tell Dean. If Sam overreacted, you definitely never wanted to see Dean’s reaction.

Being scared of Dean’s reaction was one of the main reasons why you didn’t tell him about the play you were taking part in for school. Yes, you had to go to school. Apparently, high school was important. While you hated school and people in general, you fell in love with theatre. Signing up for drama club had been a blessing for you. Pretending to be someone else and telling stories and being on stage was the only thing that got you through worrying about the brothers when they were out on hunts. But you knew you had to be a hunter. It was the family business after all. So, you never told Sam or Dean what you were doing.

You knew they were getting suspicious. The practices for the play were getting more intense and you could only use the excuse of having detention or staying back to study in the library so many times. For one, they knew that after five consecutive detentions, the school called the parents or guardians, and B – they knew how much you hated school. Just the fact that you were staying a minute more than you had to was a big red flag, specially when you had a perfectly good library at the bunker.

You still had to think of an excuse about going out at night on the final day. While the dress rehearsal was in the afternoon, the actual production was late in the evening and you knew there was no way you could sneak out of the bunker.

While you were pacing in your room trying to think of ideas, the brothers were contemplating your recent behaviour in the kitchen while they did the dishes.

“I don’t know man; she’s been shifty all week. I’m starting to get the feeling she wants us out of the bunker. She keeps bringing up every possible lead for a case. When was the last time Y/N purposely looked for a potential hunt? She hates being left alone. Something’s going on.”

Sam knew Dean was right. This was unusual behaviour for you. Even when you were mad at them, you never hid things. Coupled with all your lame-ass excuses for staying back at school, Sam had a feeling Dean was onto something.

“You don’t think something’s off at school, do you?”

Sam knew all about peer pressure. He also knew Y/N was extremely strong willed but so was he and he still got roped into smoking weed in college. Not that he thought Y/N would ever get into drugs, specially the heavy kind but there was always the niggling sensation at the back of his head going ‘what if?’.

“She would have told us if there was something bothering her,” Sam tried to sound confident but he could hear the uncertainty in her own voice.

Dean paused where he was drying the dishes, looked over at his brother and decided enough is enough.

“Here’s the thing – there’s trusting someone and just being plain stupid. Y/N is definitely hiding something and I’d rather she be mad at us for invading her privacy than regret not stepping in sooner. So, seeing how she desperately wants us out of the bunker next week, we’re going to go out of the bunker. Find a fake case Sammy, we’re going fake hunting.” Dean managed a nonchalant grin as he went back to his dishes. Sam contemplated for a moment and reluctantly agreed.

It was 2 days before the play and you still hadn’t figured out how to sneak out. You contemplated telling them you had a sleepover or a party to get to but they knew you well enough to know you didn’t get along with your classmates. If only you could dumb yourself down enough to socialise with them. You sighed and mindlessly browsed through the men of letters library.

“Hey kiddo, we found a hunt a couple of towns over. Looks like a simple salt n’ burn. You gonna be okay on your own for a couple of days?” Sam’s voice jerked you back to reality and when you registered what he was saying, you barely managed to keep yourself from squealing out loud.

Your giddiness must have been obvious as Sam and Dean shared one of those looks – the ones you hated – and asked you if you were alright.

“Yeah, yeah I’m fine. And yes, I’ll be good by myself. When are you guys leaving?”

If they had any second thoughts about their plan before, your answer just got rid of them. You were never this excited about a hunt and you always, always asked about every little detail.

“We’re probably gonna leave tonight, drive overnight to avoid the traffic. So, I for one am gonna catch some zee’s while I can. Unlike Disney princess hair over here, I won’t be getting sleep on the road.”

“You know that wouldn’t be a problem if you’d let me drive for a change!”

“Hell no, I ain’t listening to your classical crap.”

You shook your head at their antics as they walked away. Finally, things were going your way.

Things were not going your way. The brothers had left the previous evening (although they didn’t go far, but you didn’t have to know that). The day of the play had arrived and you were already nervous when you heard that the male lead was sick and his understudy had to step in. You hated him. He was one of those cocky high school boys who thought they were the shit. You had to reluctantly admit that at least the guy wasn’t the worst actor in the world. Although, if he kept hitting you with his cheesy pickup lines, you were going to stab him. Hard.

Dean and Sam spent the night at a motel before making their way back to the bunker after you’d left for school. After taking a quick shower and grabbing fresh clothes, the brothers took one of the more inconspicuous cars in the bunker basement and parked outside the school. They knew you would recognise the Impala immediately but you’d never really been interested in the other cars, much to Dean’s dismay.

“Never thought we’d be staking out Y/N,” Dean said wryly.

“Well, at least everything is normal for now. Maybe we were wrong and she’s just being a teenager you know.”

Dean doubted it but didn’t say anything. They waited for Y/N to come out when school finally ended but she never did. Sam even scoped out where the stoner kids were and she wasn’t there, much to his relief. Finally, Y/N came out 3 hours after school ended, looking extra tired but otherwise alright. The brothers shared a confused glance but sighed in relief. At least she wasn’t doing anything illegal.

You went straight home and fell asleep to recharge before your performance tonight. You got up in the evening, one hour before you had to be at school to calm your nerves.

Sam and Dean were confused. Y/N had done what she would normally do on any other day. Maybe she stayed in school for a longer time than usual but other than that, she didn’t do anything out of the ordinary.

Dean suddenly had a horrifying thought.

“Dude, if this whole thing is about a boy, I’m gonna actually kill her.”

Before Sam could reply, they saw Y/N leaving the bunker.

“It’s late. Where the hell is she going? And what the hell is she wearing?” Dean’s voice grew more incredulous with each question. “If she’s sneaking out to a party, I’m grounding her. I don’t care how old she is.”

They followed her without being seen. To the school? What the hell?

There was a lot of buzz at the school despite the late hour. Confused, the brothers got out of their car and followed Y/N inside, making sure to stay a few feet behind her.

“Is it just me or are there a lot of adults here?” Dean asked.

Then they saw the poster outside the hall Y/N had just entered. Rock Hills presents ‘West Side Story: the musical’. Sam stood there gaping at the poster and Dean had never been more confused in his life.

“What the hell?”

“I don’t know”

“Seriously. What the hell?”

“I don’t know!”

“Come on. Let’s go in,” Sam nudged his brother in the direction that the other parents were going.

The host said something about the show starting in 5 minutes but they ignored him and made their way backstage. They located Y/N quite easily. She was standing in a corner, mentally psyching herself. They made their way towards her and gently tapped her on the shoulder.

You were just minding your own business in the corner of the room before the show, going through the whole spiel of ‘why did I do this’ and ‘holy shit I’m gonna throw up’ when you felt a hand tap your shoulder. Startled, you jumped and turned around to glare at whoever disturbed you, when you froze. Sam and Dean were staring at you incredulously and had your legs been working you would probably have hightailed out of there.

“Fuck,” you softly exclaimed under your breath.

“Something you wanna share with the class kiddo?”

You couldn’t make out the exact emotion in Dean’s voice but it didn’t sound like anger. You held onto that and realised you had to be on stage in less than sixty seconds.

“Uhm, hold that thought,” was what you said instead. You went to peek through the curtain. Yep, 45 seconds.

“I love you! No time to explain – gotta go!”

With that you rushed on stage, more terrified than ever. That melted away once you started performing though. You forgot all about your worries for the duration of the play. You acted, sang and danced your heart out and when the thundering applause reached your ears and you saw the brothers in the audience cheering you on along with everyone else, you had a feeling it would be okay.

You were backstage again, taking off your stage make-up and gearing up to go face the music as it were. You were scared of the brother’s reaction and even you could tell you were procrastinating. Most of the other cast had left and it was time for you to leave too.

They were standing outside, leaning against a car. The first thing that stupidly came out of your mouth was – “Where’s baby?”

Dean laughed. A full belly laugh. You felt some of your anxiety leave your body.

The three of you looked at each other. Sam was the first one to make a move. He pulled you in for a tight hug, almost lifting your feet off the ground, kissing the top of your head.

“You were incredible, kiddo.”

You buried yourself into his chest as your eyes filled with tears of relief. Of acceptance.

“Thanks moose,” Your reply was muffled against his chest which moved with silent laughter at the nickname.

You finally pulled away from Sam when Dean cleared his throat. He looked at you blankly for a moment and dread filled your entire being.

“You ever pull something like this again, I will kick your ass.”

For a second you thought he was talking about the play and your heart dropped.

But then he pulled you into a hug too. You tensed, confused.

“Dammit kid, I don’t like being worried about you. Stop doing shit like this. Why the hell didn’t you just tell us you were taking part in this thing? You’re not nearly as good at the hiding thing as you think you are. I was terrified something shady was going on with you.”

Although he was almost yelling in your ear, you sagged against him as the tension seeped out of your body. This time you actually did start crying. Dean just hugged you tighter and Sam gently rubbed your back.

After a few minutes Dean pulled back a little and put both hands on either side of your head.

“You never have to hide anything from us. By now I like to think I know how your mind works and I can guarantee that I will never be mad at you if you want to pursue anything other than hunting. You’re not our kid because you’re a hunter Y/N/N. You’re family, regardless of your job. Clearly I’m not doing a very good job at this parenting thing if you don’t know that already.”

You furiously shook your head, hiding your face in his shirt again.

“You’re the best dad anyone could ask for. You both are.”

Your words were barely audible and your face was extremely red but the brothers still heard you and grinned at each other over your head.

“We love you too, kiddo.” Dean kissed your forehead and started walking towards the car, pulling you along.

“What do you say we get some ice cream and celebrate at the bunker? We could watch some movies, make some popcorn? You know what I’m in the mood for Sammy? West Side Story,” Dean grinned as you groaned into his shoulder.

The brothers continued to tease you as you walked to the car. You finally felt happy.

“But seriously guys, where is baby?”

[sir-huffman]

Huffman | ★★★★★ | Geo Sword | Healer/DPS | Vaticinatio Dei

[ Photo Credit: Qistina Khalidah ]

“The currencies that flow through this land are my flesh and blood. For thus did I become the guarantor of the people's hard work, wisdom, and future. This is the trust I have placed in them. Betray it, and you taint my blood.” -- Prithiva Topaz Gemstone

Thank you for all of you who have voted and aided me in the concept of Huffman receiving a vision, despite being only a few days old and still feeling Huffman out as a muse. Basically, this is Huffman should he receive a vision (when a catastrophe hits Mondstadt and he ends up dying protecting the city). --

Story Teaser - Delphi : the Ancient Capitol Deep in the depths of the world there is a place that holds a mountain of hidden secrets lost and forgotten in the world. It is where those who seek power, knowledge, and wisdom go when their heavenly gods refuse to answer. So will you venture into the depths, witness unspeakable terrors? Or will you still pray to those gods who promise you an eternal bliss?

Character Demo - Huffman : At Your Service “Good evening traveler, Sir Huffman of the Knights of Favonius at your service. Please, grant me the honor of being at your side to ensure the safety of your journey.”

Collected Miscellany - Huffman : a Knight of Favonius The Knights of Favonius are but the militaristic power who governs and protects Mondstadt. Although most of them consist of ordinary people who pray to a god that has left them in the name of freedom, the knights are there to protect the Moon City in their times of need. But seldom do those knights who give their whole body to a thankless world achieve the recognition of the people...or even the gods...It is only in the moment of death does Huffman achieve this glory:

(read more at your own discretion as it’s long)

Vera’s Melancholy: A book Huffman could be seen reading during his down time. An adventurous fantasy tale that takes place in the starry sky above. It’s a whimsical tale, one that even features his own name in it (how funny), and one that he holds dear to his heart. If only he knew the answer at the end...what would Vera’s answer be to a man who had explored the entire universe just to save her?

Ah...if only he knew...for he is still waiting for that answer

Vision: For a young boy full of youth, the idea of gaining a vision is always a dream to the people of Teyvat. But how to gain one is but a mystery to all, even those who have received such a gift. So as the days go on and years to by, what is a young man to do when he realizes he will never receive such glory?

So here he is, a knight who dedicates everything to his city. He has no desire but to be of help, of aid, which is never enough for the gods. Until the moment his vision appeared...under a catastrophe, where he had nothing but his own body to protect those in need. Where only those of visions were on the front lines and he...a man (a visionless man) who could not help but give a beckon of ordinary hope...will die.

But the world is a mysterious place and the truth of the matter is that not everyone is blessed in the same way. So as your body starts to crumble and return to the soil you were made out of, the gods have finally shown some mercy. Take this power dear forgotten god my good knight, for you...I place my trust in you to take part and help us reshape our future.

Normal Attack: Favonius Bladework - the Basics

Performs 5 consecutive strikes. Charged Attack: Consumes a certain amount of Stamina to unleash 2 rapid sword strikes. Plunging Attack: Plunges from mid-air to strike the ground below, damaging opponents along the path and dealing AoE DMG upon impact.

Elemental Skill: Ichor - Blood of Gods

Summons a cloud shield of dust that coats his blade in Geo energy as well as dealing GEO DMG to surrounding opponents. The shield’s DMG Absorption scales based on Huffman’s HP.

On hit, Huffman’s Normal and Charged Attacks regenerate HP for your own party members and nearby teammates.

Healing scales based on Huffman’s ATK.

Elemental Burst: Patrocinium Veritatis (Protection of the Truth)

Summoning a glowing golden bow, his sword splits into three silver arrows (charged with geo energy) and shot into the air to rain down multiple arrows, hitting all entities (friends and foes) around Huffman. Allies within range are healed while enemies take AoE GEO damage over time.

HP regained is based on Huffman’s ATK

During this time, Huffman fights with a bow

Passive Talents:

1st Passive: A Knight’s Honor When Huffman is in the party but not on the field, this ability triggers automatically when your active character’s HP falls below 30%. Creates a shield for your active character that lasts for 20s and absorbs DMG equal to 300% of Huffman’s ATK. The shield has a 150% DMG Absorption effectiveness against all Elemental and Physical DMG. This effect can only occur once every 60s.

2nd Passive: At Your Service When your active character gains an Elemental Orb/Particle, regain HP based on Huffman’s Max HP.

3rd Passive: Blessing for Safe Travels Displays the location of nearby enemies (elite enemies) in Mondstadt on the mini-map.

Constellation: Vaticinatio Dei (the Devastation | God of Prophecy)

Mona (About Huffman): Huffman? That guard that walks around Angel’s Share all day? He’s just like any other guard. Hmph. You do have weird tastes in people, but I’ll go ahead and take a look. Hm...again? I can’t see anything...it’s...it’s just white...wait...it’s bright. Wait...no...I...my eyes. Okay...okay! I won’t look again!

Prophecies of Fortune Increases Huffman’s Energy Recharge by 15%

Blessings of Protection Grants nearby characters on the field a Cloud Shield of Dust when Ichor - Blood of Gods is activated

Drinks from Mímisbrunnr Increases the level of Ichor - Blood of Gods by 3. Maximum upgrade level is 15.

Blessings of Artemis Within the radius of Patrocinium Veritatis, bow character’s charge time for aimed shots is reduced by 60%.

Radiance of Sunlight Increases the level of Patrocinium Veritatis by 3. Maximum upgrade level is 15.

Hector’s Avenger Within the Field created by Patrocinium Veritatis, character’s CRIT Rate is increased to 100%. If character’s CRIT Rate is over 100%, then CRIT DMG is increased by 50%

[unioncolours]

One Majsasaurus Year!

Today is a very special day for me. This day marks the one-year anniversary since I uploaded the very first chapter of my very first fanfiction. It has been one year since I stepped into the Naruto/Boruto fandom as a content creator.

This post is going to be a sappy meta post about my year as a content creator and my relationship to my fanfictions, to my writing and to my fandom and friends.

Please continue reading down below 💕⬇ 

I began watching Naruto in 2019, and by summer 2019 I had seen Shikamaru’s arc in Shippuden. I was blown away by his character and I was a full shipper of ShikaTema by then. I could not wait until we got to the end of Shippuden, and began googling the next gen characters (and spoiling the end game couples at the same time) and you can only imagine my satisfaction when I found out ShikaTema became canon and they had a son.

Very soon after this I came up with my first fanfiction idea, the one that gave birth to my very first fanfiction Shadows and Sand. I believed that idea had been done before, but after vacuuming through both ff.net and ao3, and I found nothing, I decided to write it myself.

I may have written fanfictions only for a year, but prior to this I was hardcore into the original writing world. I had written two fantasy novels and five full length plays before I wrote my first fanfiction, one of which was published, so the art of writing was something I was fairly used to.

The fanfiction writers I had read and followed to this point were Big Fandom Name writers with strict schedules and lots of readers. Every time they uploaded a new chapter their audience would write comments like “Your spoiling us with these tight schedules” and so on. I really liked the idea of a consecutive schedule and decided to write the whole first fic in its entirety, so I could “spoil” my potential readers with updates.

Shadows and Sand ended up being 35 000 word long, divided into eight chapters. This was the first story in my whole life I had ever written completely in English (and it was not easy). Going back to Shadows and Sand is cringy for me, mainly for the way I expressed myself in English, thought I still think the plot is great.

Here is one of the lines from Shadows and Sand I to this day think is amazing:

“She [Mirai] looked into his eyes, but he [Shikadai] didn’t look back, because he was already staring into a nightmare where his dad was dead because of his mistakes.”

For a totally new fanfiction writer, with no “fanbase” prior to this, I would say I got quite a lot of comments (around 15 in total on the eight chapters) and I was extremely happy for that.

I uploaded the whole thing in a week and a half, satisfied and proud of the result. At the final chapter I got a comment where the commentor wrote something along the lines of “Well written angst and well written fluff”. I pondered about those statements for a long time, thinking, yes, this was actually angst, even if I in the moment of writing – then I was still unused to the tagging system and the tropes of fanfiction, didn’t categorise the fic as angst, because I thought angst could only be chopped off limbs and painful deaths. But this fic had angst as well. Tiny angst, but still. And a rather powerful feeling rose in my chest from that moment. This is what I want to do in the fandom. To write heartfelt stories that make people feel.

  One week after I uploaded the final chapter of Shadow and Sand my fingers began to itch. I wanted to write more. Wanted to explore the little grain of world building I had already created. Wanted to write more Shikadai and Inojin kissing.

And thus, To go down with the Sun was born.

I began writing Down with the Sun with only one vision – something epic and an explosion. The plot was evolving as I was writing and the result ended up being just beautiful. And I became obsessed with this story. I wrote it in racer speed, 50 000 words in 26 days (that is madness, I tell you, MADNESS!) and then the rest 30k in 20 days. I could not think of anything but this story and the Next Generation Kids I put through trials and hell. I felt true euphoria while writing this story that unfolded under my fingers like in a dream. It was a mania, and a damn strong one.

The first thing I did when I woke up was writing, the last thing I did before going to bed was writing it. I prioritised writing this story above all in my life.

At the time of uploading, the fic did not get that much recognition. I got about one comment per chapter. When I uploaded the final chapter, I got two comments on that one, which was a tiny bummer, since I had hoped for more. It was a lonely, but lovely job to write Down with the Sun, mostly with my own thoughts as company, since the readers were rather quiet with feedback.

But I loved the few comments I got and I still got kicks from just the single act of uploading a new chapter. Because in the end, I wrote for myself and even more for the characters and plot. Finishing the story was the greatest motivator.

I uploaded the final chapter of To go down with the Sun December 7th, 2019.  And I still to this day love the story I created, even if I know that I’d definitely re-write some elements from the story if I’d write it again. But I still love it.

   After To go down with the Sun I wrote the fic that I hold the least emotional value to, Earning a weasel’s trust. The story is cute and short (11 000 words). It was a nice little project focusing on Temari’s motherhood to Shikadai that I wrote in a week. It got close to no feedback or attention, but it didn’t make me sad, because I needed to write and share that story and then move on with my life. I am though happy I wrote it.

At this time in my creative process I had been really lonely. It had been me with my own head and the characters. I had no beta reader and no one to bounce off ideas or anything. I had no fandom friends. I am still amazed I had written around 130k words without almost any support whatsoever in the span of four months.

This all changed in late December 2019. I found a Discord Server that I basically begged to get to be part of, and it really changed my fandom experience. Prior to this, my fandom experience had been lonely, and I just produced and consumed content. There was no interaction between anyone, except me replying to commentors.

And now, I found friends. I found people who loved the same pairing and show as I, and it felt almost life changing. This was the time when fandom really felt like… a hobby. A home. Before, it was a creative outlet, now it became a community.

I thrived.

The mod of this server @loknnica, hosted during this time a writing contest, which I eagerly wanted to take part of. I wrote my contest fic, Branded by Love, during January 2020, in which I made Shikamaru betray Konoha for Suna and Temari, and their son Shikadai became the One Tail jinchuuriki. The fic was 10k words long, and OUCH, the backstory I came up with. As soon as BbL was finished I decided that I wanted to write a long version of this canon divergence-world I had created.

In February 2020 I began writing Trial of the Heart, the epic version of Branded by Love. And damn, damn, damn what an epic story was born out of my fingers and brain. I love ToH, I loved what it turned out to be, a heart-wrenching and sad story of Shikamaru, Temari and Shikadai in a world of war.

While writing ToH the writing contest was ending and to my big, big delight, I WON! Branded by Love and I won the contest! This was precisely the boost I needed to really feel validated in my rather specific writing style and choice of plots.

I wrote ToH almost non-stop for four months, and in the beginning of June, the 28th chapter was uploaded. Trial of the Heart ended up being 123 000 words long. In four months, a whole damn NOVEL was created from my keyboard.

The pride, guys. The pride and joy I felt was like a drug injection.

Finishing off works is the greatest, greatest dose of motivation and pride. To write, write, write and finish. And let go of your work, to upload it with a great smile on your face.

During the spring and summer of 2019 three very important friends entered my life.

Vee (@veeganburger on twitter),

Becks (@notquitejiraiya on twitter)

Spooky (@spookymoth on twitter).

These three wonderful ladies really made me feel valid as a writer, and made me love my own work as well. During the spring To go down with the Sun had gained quite a lot of attraction, and the kudos and comments came. All the loneliness I had felt during the autumn was replaced by joy and love of sharing my works. These women have shared their thoughts of my work (and art) to me and I have also in privacy felt secure to talk with these women about nothing and all at once. They never fail to cheer me up.

I love you.

I had also gained the nickname “Shikadai’s tormentor” after multiple times forced that poor boy into horrible situations in my works. The user @shikanaradai’s nickname is Shikadai’s protector and we have an ongoing joke about being archenemies because of this. Ah. The fandom bubble was and is so lovely when you can experience inside jokes with friends. They became my friends, and I gained so much from this.

ANYHOW.

During Trial of the Heart I wrote a friendship between Shikadai and Inojin and I realised I missed writing them as a couple, like I had done in To go down with the Sun. With the support of Vee, who was really, really excited for a new fic where those two boys are a couple, I decided to write a sequel to To go down with the Sun, which I named To dance above the Stars.

In the wait before I began writing that one, I wrote two one shots, 48 hours to live – a next gen focused fic based on a manga chapter from the Boruto manga, and a pure Shikadai x Inojin one shot, I found love in the eyes of a boy, because at that time I knew already I had dug my own grave with that pairing.

I began writing To dance above the Stars in June 2020 and uploaded the first chapter at the end of the same month.

Simultaneously as I wrote Above the Stars I also wrote/edited three fics, one of them called The End, for an application to become a writer to the ShikaTema zine Everything I never knew I wanted. The results of the application came in the middle of July, when I had written a good chunk of Above the Stars.

I WAS ACCEPTED!

I am now officially one of the five writers for that zine!

To dance above the Stars got better recognition that I ever imagined. I was terrified that no one would want to read it, because it was a sequel and had very niched themes. A rare gay next gen pairing in focus and a story with extremely heavy emotional themes. I was so unsure anyone would want to read. The same feeling of loneliness that I had experienced during To go down with the Sun came back a little bit. That it in the end would be only me and my text.

How wrong I was.

To dance above the Stars got wonderful feedback, and more kudos than for example Trial of the Heart got. I received wonderful comments, and even fanart! I was so extremely happy and felt a new powerful emotion. It almost felt like my fic had its own little world in the world of fics, if that makes sense? Like a miniature fandom. During the late summer To go down with the Sun got translated into Russian by a wonderful reader of mine, enabling my texts to a wider audience, which I am extremely honoured by.

As I write this, it is September 2020. One year ago, I was writing Shadows and Sand and struggling through stringing English sentences together and that was also when “my” version of Shikadai was born. One year ago, I was writing what I to this day think is the best fighting scene I have ever written – and I write a lot of fight scenes. One year ago I was listening to “I just want to be brave” from the movie Lion King to get into Shikadai vibes and the mistake he did in that fic, a song I revisit for this reason time and time again.

I remember naively thinking that I will finish Shadows and Sand and then maybe write something else as well. Little did I then, in September 2019 know, that I would one year later have written closer to 400k words of fics, centred around Team 10 or around the Nara family. One year, almost four hundred thousand words.

Now, one year later I had won a writing contest, written three full length NOVELS as fics, been accepted to a wonderful zine, and found lovely, lovely friends. I even got crowned as a “Queen” for the Shikadai x Inojin ship, Shikajin as it is called, since I am one of the like three people who write for that ship, and have to this date written around 180k words for them. Which is a lot, haha!

I feel like I have conquered a tiny corner of the great fandom sandbox, and let me tell you, I thrive in my own corner. I might have few followers on twitter compared to many other creators, but I still want to provide content for those who want to see it. I might write rather niche works, but they filled a space where no fics were, and enriched the fandom in their own ways, even if I haven’t gotten tens of comments on each chapter. I have gotten around four comments each chapter, but it felt like okay.

I might not mod great zines like many of my friends do, something that did for a few months bring great stress into my fandom life. Am I a second-hand fandom member because I don’t want to moderate a zine, was something I often thought about. Am I lesser worth because I don’t do these amazing projects? No, I am not. And I feel very satisfied by just following my friends’ journeys and look at beautiful twitter accounts for zines.

I want to put my energy on writing intriguing plots and difficult fight scenes. Every fandom experience is valid.

In my heart I know my fics and content are good. Maybe not as good as native English writer’s content, but they’ve got a heart and soul on their own, and I really feel like I do have a Majsasaurus genre, trope or theme going on in my fics. And to be honest, I love it, and I accept that other people might not love it as much, or not at all. But it doesn’t matter. What I think of my own content matter.

  If any of you, who read this, have commented even once on one of my fics, thank you.

If any of you have ever interacted with me on twitter through comments, thanks you.

If any of you have pressed the follow button on either twitter or tumblr for me, thank you.

If any of you have left kudos to me, thank you.

If any of you have read my stuff but don’t want to comment because of different reasons, or if you feel shy to reach out, thank you for reading and I appreciate you as well.

 That was one hell of a Majsasaurus Year. Here’s to the next year. Cheers!

Thank you, all of you. You make my fandom experience complete.

 -        Majsasaurus Bex

[micnerdy]

Complete Guide To Touch Typing- Beginner To Advance

Choosing the right equipment and technology to get you started.

In February of this year, I was following an online computer science course, most of the time the camera is shown on a white screen displayed mostly with presentation slides on a professor's laptop, but every time the professor starts the excode "with code", and the empty window is almost awesome with code punks for the camera because When clicked, you can see the full comprehension, the function that describes each line of code. Keyboard with immense talent, you feel like they know the way around it. It fascinated me and was more than I wanted to touch. For the rest, I went online to find thousands of websites that promised to teach me skills, applications, courses, as well as tons of articles explaining the benefits of touch typing. I will not say that each of them worked for me, the best mix of those that worked was with some learning techniques that I developed over the months. Here they are the first step. Before getting started, if you doubt about your typing speed or you are sure that you type fast (more than average), then visit wpmtest to check your typing speed. Practice daily, see results and improve daily practicing.

You must unlearn.

During the years I was hunting and typing Peking, it was very difficult to switch to the new technique, but for any other skill, it took discipline and sacrifice to touch the type, to the extent that I could. Type all the letters and some punctuation without looking at the keyboard, I used the index finger of my dominant hand for typing, no matter how slow, one hand is always on my lap. It may seem like overkill to some but no matter what, try not to hunt and peck anymore.

For starters, learn with letters, period, and commas

For now, stop caring about numbers and symbols, you can look up the keyboard for them, letters and two punctuation are the most hit keys on the keyboard, you will learn them quickly. Of the dozens of websites that offer step-by-step practice, I found TypeFu and typing.com on every line. With typing.com, you can provide equally structured text in both. Completing the “Beginner Course” from typing.com proves that it is adequate for our current purpose.

Points to consider:

Never put the tip they showed before the start of each lesson. Make sure to make full use of visible keyboards and finger pointers, which can be very useful when you can not find the right finger. Do not hurry, the faster you move the slower. Accuracy, speed follows.

Accuracy, speed follows.

By the end of the beginner course, you should be able to type all the sentences in the whole case and in fewer cases without looking at the keyboard. Once venture time.

Venturing out

Keybr.com

Next, it will enhance your newly learned skills, typing me to type. Keybr is an amazing web app that becomes more complex as you learn the skills. They also have an algorithm that supports their application that builds lessons based on your past performances. After you register in Keyboard, you must enter your initial settings below.

Keybr provides lessons in small explosions. Every day, try to complete at least three lessons in a row without any errors.

Every day, try to complete at least three lessons in a row without any errors

Once it looks very light, increase the complexity and length of the text, starting with the uppercase letters and finally puncturing the letters. Still following the same routine.

Sadly, numbers do not provide lessons in consecutive keys. For this, since you have created it, Typing.com's Intermediate Course> Number of letters, the lesson will be easier to understand.

Typeracer.com

Type Razor holds a special place in the hearts of both emerging and master typists (Barbara Blackburn was the fastest typist), as the name implies, Type Razor is a simple yet effective online game in which you compete with competitors of skill levels such as paragraphs. By typing and as quickly as possible. . What I found more effective was not the race, the practice section. The trick here is to learn the most commonly used words in English by typing them over and over again. Try to complete at least one practice session per day with at least 97% accuracy. Isn’t this correct in the first shot? Do the same lesson.

Pro Tips

Keep your nails small.

To type uppercase letters, place the opposite hand opposite the opposite hand and the letter you are trying to type.

For one or a few keys that you are always missing, consider adding bulbs to those keys, such as pasting a small square top/scotch tape on the key. So know that your brain is reaching for the right key.

Please be patient and take your time

Touch typing is not about typing fast, it's about translating your thoughts fast, because, "If you can not move quickly, your thought will be lost and not go back." May come ".

FAQs

Why is touch typing so hard?

Since your brain does not have to fully process the words you type, your fingers are executing a sequence of movements. The main caution comes from muscle memory; you must learn proper movements before automating them. This is especially true when typing high-frequency words.

Why should I learn to touch type?

Touch-typing means you can type with speed and accuracy without having to look at your hands on the keyboard, which makes touch-typewriters so fast. ... 'Touch-type children work twice as hard as "Hunt and Peck" on the keyboard.

Can you teach yourself to touch type?

You should practice finding it by touching the home key alone. A self-study course provides guidance on what fingers to use to type any key and how to use a combination of key presses to type capital letters and punctuation.

Is it OK to type with two fingers?

Two-finger Typing is good, but it can emphasize you, try anything above 3 fingers, it will not stress you. Hunt and pecking can also cause low accuracy and inaccurate muscle memory. Try to learn typing.

Is typing good for your brain?

You can use touch typing to improve your memory and increase your brain function. Since it is a mental activity that engages many parts of your brain, type touch helps activate new memory muscles and creates a more active and robust cognitive connection, which increases your overall brain capacity and function. Increases. 17-September-2020.

How long does it take to get good at typing?

Practicing once a week or more (15-30 minutes) is equivalent to practicing once a day (15-30 minutes). If you practice regularly and don't give up, you should learn to type simply in 2-3 months, and you should be able to touch type over time (10-15 hours).

What is the 10 finger method?

The 10 finger method is a very well-established technology to use your computer keyboard effectively. With some practice and proper finger positioning, you can type 'blindly' on the keyboard. If you reduce it, you can significantly reduce your error rate and at the same time increase your typing speed.

[thecollegefootballguy]

The Top 25 Teams of the Decade: #8 Wisconsin

Hello everybody, we’re celebrating the arrival of the 2020′s by looking at the 25 best programs of the previous decade.

We’re on to the top ten to celebrate the #8 team from the 2010′s:

University of Wisconsin Badgers

Record: 102-34 (.750) Division Titles: 5 Conference Titles: 3 Bowl Seasons: 10 Major Bowls: 6 Final Top 25 Finishes: 8 Final Top 10 Finishes: 4 Best Season: 2017

Wisconsin has been one of the most consistent winners in the 2010′s, they’ve easily been the most successful team in the Big Ten besides Ohio State even with a resurgent Michigan and Penn State as well as Michigan State dominating for much of the same run.

The Badgers began the decade at peak form. After a successful transition of power from the legendary Barry Alvarez to Bret Bielema, Wisconsin really started to roll in 2009 and built up great momentum going into 2010. The Badgers started ranked #12 in the nation but didn’t climb higher than 11th due to an easy schedule in the first month. #11 Wisconsin visited #24 Michigan State and fell 24-34 in East Lansing. It would end up being a crippling setback. The Badgers rebounded with a win over rival Minnesota for homecoming. The next week #18 Wisconsin dominated #1 Ohio State 31-18, launching the supposedly dead Badgers back into the national title conversation. The next week, now #10 Wisconsin slipped past rival #13 Iowa 31-30, opening up the path to win out. The 11-1 Badgers were placed 4th in the final rankings, the loss to the Spartans ending up ruining their chance at competing for a national championship. Wisconsin was instead placed in the Rose Bowl ahead of Ohio State and Michigan State. The Badgers ended up losing 19-21 in Pasadena to an equally hard-nosed TCU squad.

Wisconsin rolled their momentum into 2011 where they began the season at 11th in the polls. The Badgers easily ran out to a 4-0 lead against an easy schedule. #7 Wisconsin’s first big matchup was against #8 Nebraska in the Cornhuskers’ first ever conference game as a member of the Big Ten. The Badgers thrashed the Huskers 48-17 to vault into the top five. Wisconsin’s brief flirtation in the national title race went belly-up in the end of October. The #4 Badgers fell in East Lansing in back to back years, losing to #15 Michigan State 31-37. The next week, Wisconsin went to Columbus and lost to unranked Ohio State, falling well out of the national picture and all the way to 19th in the polls. The Badgers rolled through the rest of their Big Ten schedule as it eased up. They ended the regular season with a dominating #20 Penn State 45-7 right after the Nittany Lions had their hearts torn out in the weeks following the breaking of the Sandusky scandal. Wisconsin’s win put the Badgers in a tie with PSU atop the new Leaders Division, so UW was sent to Indianapolis to play in the first ever Big Ten Championship Game. It was a rematch with #11 Michigan State, and this time #15 Wisconsin pulled out the 42-39 victory to earn their second consecutive trip to Pasadena. The #9 Badgers suffered another gut-wrenching defeat in the Rose Bowl, this time to PAC-12 Champion #6 Oregon.

Wisconsin took a step back in 2012. The Badgers fell to Oregon State in Week 2 and then lost to #22 Nebraska 27-30 before September was over. Wisconsin rose up to 6-2 before again losing to Michigan State. November was a very bleak month, the Badgers went 1-2 with overtime losses to both Ohio State and Penn State. However, with both OSU and PSU banned from playing in the postseason due to NCAA sanctions, Wisconsin was selected as the division winner despite placing 3rd in the standings. The 7-5 Badgers were big underdogs against 10-2 #14 Nebraska in the Big Ten Championship, but UW ended up pounding the Cornhuskers 70-31 to secure an third consecutive trip to the Rose Bowl. However, Bret Bielema departed after the season to take the vacant head coaching job at Arkansas. It was a controversial move and seen by many Badgers fans as a lateral move at best and a betrayal. The man who had just guided the team to three trips to Pasadena was gone. Barry Alvarez came out of retirement to coach in one more Rose Bowl. Wisconsin acquitted themselves nicely against #8 Stanford, losing only 14-20 despite probably not belonging there.

Gary Andersen was brought in to keep the train rolling. Andersen had just previously resuscitated Utah State into respectability for the first time since the 60′s. Andersen quickly picked up where Bielema left off, an built on the 8-6 record from 2012. A tight 30-32 loss to Arizona State in Tempe was a setback, and a close 24-31 loss to #4 Ohio State knocked UW out of the division race which the Buckeyes would run away with. Wisconsin rebounded with an easy 35-6 win over #19 Northwestern to re-enter the AP Poll. The Badgers rattled off six straight wins before falling to Penn State to end the regular season with a 9-3 record. #19 Wisconsin was paired up with #8 South Carolina in the Outback Bowl and unsurprisingly lost 24-34.

The Badgers were set up for another run in 2014, but stumbled out of the gate with a close 24-28 loss to #13 LSU in Houston to open the year. UW easily blew through the rest of the non-conference schedule before travelling to Evanston where they were upset by Northwestern 14-20. Wisconsin’s offense really ignited in mid-October, torching the weaker B1G opponents before the name opponents came in. The #22 Badgers again blew out #11 Nebraska, this time a 59-24 mauling that vaulted Wisconsin into the lead in the new Big Ten West division. Victories over Iowa and #22 Minnesota sealed the deal. 10-2 #13 UW was riding high on a 7 game winning streak going into the Big Ten Championship Game, but they ran into a brick wall in #5 Ohio State. The Buckeyes vaporized the Badgers 59-0 en route to an unlikely national championship. Wisconsin appeared to be on solid ground as a program despite the loss, but head coach Gary Andersen resigned as head coach in a stunning move. Barry Alvarez again filled in to guide the team through their bowl. The Badgers was left to lick their wounds in the Outback Bowl again, this time defeating #19 Auburn in overtime.

Another Alvarez disciple, Paul Chryst, was brought in from Pittsburgh to be the new permanent head coach in Madison in 2015. Chryst took no time getting things rolling. Wisconsin suffered another neutral site loss to open the season, this time to #3 Alabama. But, you know, that’s gonna happen. The Badgers were upset in the conference opener to unranked Iowa 6-10, but the Hawkeyes would end up going 12-0 through the regular season. Wisconsin ended up breezing through the rest of the schedule before again being upset at home by #20 Northwestern 7-13. A win over USC in the Holiday Bowl would give the Badgers a 10-3 record, an auspicious start for the new regime. 

UW brought that momentum into 2016, when the Badgers edged out #5 LSU in Green Bay to start the season and immediately vault into the top ten despite starting the year unranked. Wisconsin ended September with a commanding 30-6 victory over #8 Michigan State. October brought a cruel gut punch, as the Badgers lost to #4 Michigan and #2 Ohio State in back to back weeks by a paltry two touchdowns. Wisconsin’s Playoff hopes were dashed, but they quickly recovered to tear through the Big Ten West. The 10-2 and 6th ranked Badgers once again found themselves in Indianapolis, where this time they would face #8 Penn State. In a heartbreaking 31-38 loss, Wisconsin’s hopes were dashed. The Badgers were given a berth to the Cotton Bowl as a consolation, and they safely defused #12 Western Michigan with a 24-16 victory. Though it wouldn’t be their last brush with PJ Fleck.

2017 was a banner year for Wisconsin. The Badgers had put together another monstrous defense combined with a solid passing game and steamrolling run attack. UW began the year ranked in the top ten and never let go. Wisconsin raced out to a 9-0 start before the schedule even got a little tough. The Badgers nearly won all of those contests by double digits. If UW was ever going to lose in the regular season it would have been against #25 Iowa or #19 Michigan in November. They didn’t. The Badgers beat both teams 38-14 and 24-10 respectively, then blanked Minnesota 31-0 to secure a perfect 12-0 record. #3 Wisconsin was in the driver’s seat, a win over #8 Ohio State would be a ticket to the College Football Playoff and the program’s first real shot at a national championship. It wasn’t to be. The Badgers fell just short, 21-27, and all their hopes were dashed yet again. #6 Wisconsin was placed in the Orange Bowl against #11 Miami and beat the Hurricanes 34-24. At 13-1, it’s probably the best season in Badger history.

Wisconsin took a clear step back in 2018. The Badgers began the year ranked 4th in the AP Poll, but things quickly fell apart. UW lost to BYU in non-conference play, and they would lose to every other quality opponent they faced. #12 Michigan and #21 Penn State won handily at home, and a loss to Northwestern handed the Wildcats the division by the end of October. Despite being the best team in the West, the Badgers would limp to the finish line, where the ultimate indignity occurred, a loss to rival Minnesota for the first time in 15 years. They played Miami in a much less heralded Pinstripe Bowl, beating the Hurricanes again to salvage an 8-5 record.

Wisconsin’s 2019 was a mixed bag. At parts of the season, they looked like a clear national title contender, but two pairs of back to back losses pumped the breaks pretty hard on the Badgers’ aspirations. UW raced out to a 6-0 start, including an easy 35-14 win over #11 Michigan. The week before their climactic showdown with Ohio State, Wisconsin was upset by bottom feeder Illinois, THEN they lost easily to the #3 Buckeyes. Wisconsin dug themselves out of their hole with another 4 straight wins, sealing the division with victories over rivals #18 Iowa and #8 Minnesota. #8 Wisconsin was again pitted against now #1 Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship Game. They managed to hang in there with OSU for a while before eventually succumbing 21-34. With the Buckeyes headed to the Playoff, the Badgers were awarded the Big Ten’s slot in the Rose Bowl. In a close 27-28 nail-biter, Wisconsin lost to #6 Oregon. As far as 10-4 records go, UW did a very good job.

I have high hopes for Wisconsin in the 2020′s. The Badgers can probably keep on winning the Big Ten West with relative ease. They’re one of the most consistent winners in college football and show no signs of slowing down. Hopefully they can actually win a Rose Bowl one of these years.

Wisconsin absolutely dominated their rivals in the 2010′s. They commanded a 9-1 record over Minnesota and went 7-1 against Iowa. If we’re calling Nebraska a rivalry, the Badgers are also 8-1 against the Huskers, including the win in Indianapolis.

[skizmin]

pool boy | h. jisung ☼

⇝ Australia!Au: jeongin, seungmin, felix, jisung, hyunjin, changbin, minho, chan, woojin

⇝ Pairing: Han Jisung / Gender neutral reader

⇝ Genre: fluff!!

⇝ Words: 2026 its v short sorry

⇝ Summary: You worked at the local pool with Jisung Han, and no amount of sunscreen could protect you from his radiance.

⇝ A/N: this is to try and get out of my slump, sorry its so shitty!

“It’s well over 40 degrees out today! Local pools are overflowing with people, I wouldn’t be surprised if the water was half sunblock by now!” The radio host blared over the speakers that stood tall surrounding the hectic squeals and shrieks of laughter coming from the three large pools that were almost filled today. You wiped your brow and swirled your feet in the cool water of the 25m length pool before standing up, watching as a group of teens snuck-up on each other in attempts to dunk their friends under the water.

You’d always liked it, the smell of chlorine and the bright smiles of kids with sunscreen that wasn’t quite rubbed in properly over their cheeks. This summer proved to be busy, constant customers walking through the gates as the heat reached 30 degrees by 9AM. Some regulars never failed to ask you about your day, your opinions on the weather, if any accidents had happened yet.

You always got the summer job at the pool. No matter how many applied, you had simply worked with them for 3 consecutive summers as a part-timer, they weren’t going to let you go.

“Y/N!” Your head snapped upwards from the pool you were watching over towards the sound. A smile instantly found its way onto your lips as Jisung made his way towards you. “Leemo wants you to take a break. Go re-apply so you don’t get burnt, I’ll watch over for you.”

Jisung only worked with you on busy days like these, he tended to only come in for a few random shifts aside from his Tuesday junior beginners swimming class. You did a Friday class free of cost with refugees and other Australia newcomers, most didn’t have the chance to learn very well, and you weren’t going to let any drown in the harsh Australian waters, whether it be river or ocean.

Jisung always admired you for that, and you always admired Jisung. He was great with kids, they all loved him and loved to play pranks on him. They always stayed behind to play Marco Polo with him after their lessons.

You sorta really liked Jisung, it was impossible not to with his bright smiles and flushed cheeks that came with the heat. You’d got to spend extra time with him this summer, even lucky enough to share a shift at the top of the waterslide, both smiling and maybe letting kids go down wrapped up in pairs which most definitely wasn’t allowed. It wasn’t like your boss cared, those rules were only to appease those obsessed with the ‘safety’ of children.

You nodded thankfully, feeling the sting on the very tops of your cheekbones already. Taking off your broad-brimmed hat and running fingers through your damp hair you walked away from Jisung, murmuring a quiet “You can let the kid in the red drown if ya want.”

Jisung laughed and shoved you lightly in the general direction of the office. Your bare feet walked carefully over the wet concrete, excusing yourself through the freakishly long line of kids on the stairs to the waterslide. Your boss smiled at you once you reached the window he sat at, next to the canteen, bright red raspberry twist hanging from his teeth.

“Hey kiddo, drink up.” He said, shoving an ice cold bottle of water into your arms. You picked it up and immediately placed it on the back of your neck, sighing in content as the perspiration on the bottle dribbled down your neck. Your other hand reached out for the litre bottle of SPF50, pressing the head with your thumb and squeezing out a generous amount onto your hand before smearing it onto your cheeks and putting the water bottle down.

“Thanks Leemo, it’s so hot out today.” You said as you covered your arms and legs with massive bouts of the sunblock.

“Don’t thank me, it was Jisung that offered to cover for you a bit.” You paused as your hand reached out for the blue coloured zinc on the table. Jisung wanted you to take a break? You shook your head slightly and grabbed the zinc, spreading it over your cheeks.

“Right, well, anyway.” You said, finally unscrewing the cap off of your water bottle and chugging it down.

You peaked one eye open in the shade and caught a glimpse of your co-worker, Iniya, rolling her eyes as she grabbed three bags of Zooper Doopers from the freezer. You pulled the bottle from your face and put the lid back on.

“Here, take this back with you for Jisung.” Leemo slid another water bottle onto the counter after giving a group of girls their tickets for the waterslide. “He’s a sweet kid, no doubt he’ll wanna stay with you and help you out.”

You felt heat rise to your cheeks at the thought of Jisung wanting to help you and you thanked the lords that the blue zinc probably covered your blush. Jisung was a sweet kid, he’d help out anyone, but you still liked to think that maybe he liked you back.

“Righto, seeya Leemo!” And with that you scurried off, passing the kiddie pool and walking in between the 25m and 50m, a young teen running up ahead of you and almost slipping over. You shook your head and called out to him.

“Mate! You can’t run up here, alright?” The boy turned to you and smiled sheepishly.

“Sorry! My friends are up here.” You nodded at him and told him it was all good, just to not do it again before continuing walking towards where you last saw Jisung.

Glancing around a bit, you saw him over near the fence, sweetly asking an elderly woman on the path next to it to throw over a lost ball. He smiled widely once she did, catching the ball and turning back to thank her profusely. You couldn’t help but look at the way his yellow and red shirt reflected up and made his face glow.

Once he chucked the ball back to the kids in the pool he spotted you on the other side. A devious smile replaced his sweet one as he yelled to the kids in the pool to prepare themselves. They all squealed in delight as Jisung ran up and bombed into the pool, splashing them all with water. Once he came up from the water, shaking the hair out of his eyes, he told them all that only he’s allowed to do that because he has special privileges. The kids didn’t mind, some regulars in his classes moving to jump up and latch onto him as he waded through the water towards you.

It was mesmerising, honestly, the way the water trickled down his face and his hair dripped. He laughed and detached the children clinging to him, fighting them away with some playful splashes. That was when you realised you were smiling, not even trying to hide it as the boy reached you, letting his legs float as he rested his arms on the edge. You think your heart skipped a beat when he pressed his cheek against his arms and gazed up at you, one eye squeezed shut at the glare of the sun. You subconsciously moved so you were shading him.

“You’re meant to keep the kids from dying, not drowning them with your fat-ass.” You smiled down at him, and he laughed wholeheartedly, the sunblock on his face returning to a white-ish colour because of the water.

“I’ve got you to save them instead, let me have my fun.” He shot back, beginning to lift himself up onto the side of the pool. You smiled, reaching a hand down to help him up.

He smiled brightly again once he stood in front of you, eyes boring into yours. Once again, you thanked the zinc for hiding the red of your cheeks once you noticed his cold fingers were still just barely wrapped around your own.

Suddenly, you called out. “Oi, guys! Watch out!”

Everyone in the pool looked up towards you, and Jisung’s eyes went wide with a wince from your volume. You smiled at him sweetly before bringing up your hands to his chest, and pressing it back harshly. Jisung shrieked as he fell back into the pool and you laughed loudly at him, his hair covering his eyes as he came up with a gasp before pushing it back to reveal furrowed brows and betrayal tracing all over his features. This only made you laugh harder as you bent over in your glee.

This went on for a short 15 seconds before you felt multiple hands on you and pushing you hard enough so that you lost your balance, clenching your lips shut just before you fell into the coolness of the pool, water enveloping you invitingly. Once you resurfaced, you imagined you had a similar expression to the one he had. You opened your eyes and took off your hat that was barely attached to your head anymore in search of the culprits.

Jisung’s manic laughter caught your eyes before you felt him jumping on your back, wrapping his arms around your shoulders and hugging his legs around your waist. Your hands immediately went to hold underneath his thighs as you found three kids standing on the edge of the pool, laughing too, before jumping in and swimming towards you and Jisung. He reached out in front of you to high-five the kids and you finally smiled, laughing lightly at the mischievous look in the children's’ eyes.

Water dripped from Jisung’s neck onto your shoulder and you flinched at the ticklish feeling before leaning back, Jisung leaped off of your back to avoid being submerged into the chlorine of the pool.

You turned to him and smiled brightly, heart beating from excitement and happiness and the feeling of Jisung clinging to you still lingering on your skin. He smiled back, just as bright as usual and threw your hate to you as it was floating around in the water.

This was a moment where your liking for him was truly prominent in your mind. Where you wanted nothing more than to be spending your summer days with Jisung, getting ice cream and potato cakes with questionable amounts of chicken salt. Maybe you should just tell him, tell him that you like him and that you want to go on a date with him. You should tell him that b-.

“If Y/N and Jisung could go back to doing their jobs, that’d be great.” You heard Leemo’s amused and jokingly tired voice boom over the loudspeaker, and listened to the laughter coming from some of the parents that watched the whole fiasco, amused.

Jisung just laughed again and swam to the edge of the pool to haul himself out, shirt dripping water all over the concrete. He turned back to you to offer a hand in getting you out, and in that moment everything was perfect. Jisung’s smile outshined the sun that gleamed picturesquely behind him, his hair dripping as his glistening hand reached out towards you. His eyes waited for you as you were hesitant to grab his hand.

“I won’t push you.” He said.

And he didn’t.

And maybe, after that shift, after the pool closed at 6PM, Jisung asked you to hang out with him. Maybe he ordered pizza and you both ate it in the park nearby, maybe he nervously sat closer to you once the sun started setting.

Maybe he held your hand as he walked you back to you car, softly intertwining your fingers with his, maybe he told you he liked you with a shaky voice and blushing cheeks and maybe you kissed him, gently with your hands on his cheeks, thinking about how he smelt like chlorine and tasted vaguely of sunblock. Maybe he kissed you back, pressing you lightly against your car and pulling back because he was smiling too much.

Maybe this summer, the summer where the heat made your clothes stick and the summer where Jisung and you kissed, was your favourite summer of all.

[spookyspemilyreid]

Happy Anniversary Self Titled!❤(April 5, 2013)

Paramore is the self-titled fourth studio album by American rock band Paramore. It was released on April 5, 2013, through Fueled by Ramen as a follow-up to Brand New Eyes (2009). It is their first full-length album released after the departure of co-founders Josh and Zac Farro in 2010. Recorded between April and November 1, 2012, the album was described by the band as being a "statement" and a reintroduction of the band to the world and to themselves. It is the only album without Zac Farro on drums, and the final album recorded with bassist Jeremy Davis before he left the band in 2015.

The album was produced by Justin Meldal-Johnsen, with lead guitarist Taylor York co-producing on four tracks. In contrast to band's previous work, the production of Paramore contains the band's experimentation with new musical genres, such as new wave and funk rock, and features three acoustic interludes. Paramore received acclaim from music critics, who praised the band's maturity and experimentation in terms of musicianship as well as Williams' vocals and overall presence on the album. Several publications included the album in their year-end lists, including The A.V. Club and The Guardian.

Paramore was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 with first-week sales of 106,000 copies. The album also topped the charts in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Ireland, and New Zealand, where it became their first album to reach the summit. It also became their second chart topper in the United Kingdom. In March 2016, Paramore was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), for sales exceeding 1,000,000. The group followed the record release with The Self-Titled Tour in promotion, with European, North American, Asian, Latin American, and Oceania legs announced. In 2014, Fall Out Boy and Paramore co-headlined Monumentour. A deluxe edition of the album was released on November 24, 2014.

The recording of Paramore began in April 2012 with the song "Daydreaming". After a brief pause, recording resumed on June 27 of that year and ended on November 1, 2012. It is the first Paramore album released after the departure of Josh Farro and Zac Farro, both of whom left the band in 2010.

The album was produced by Justin Meldal-Johnsen, longtime bassist for Beck and Nine Inch Nails, who has previously produced records for M83 and Neon Trees. In an interview with Electronic Musician, Meldal-Johnsen stated he wanted "the album to sound very visceral and a little bit less locked down and computerized, more 1981 than 2012, with a nod to 2016." In an interview with Digital Spy, Taylor York stated "I don't think we've ever been so proud and satisfied with something we've done." On June 29, 2012, the band had confirmed that former Nine Inch Nails and current Angels & Airwaves drummer Ilan Rubin would be recording drums for the album. 

In an interview with Rolling Stone, lead vocalist Hayley Williams explained "That whole time for our band was such a dark season. It was emotionally exhausting, and by the time we got around to the point where we were going to start writing, we just really wanted to enjoy the process of making an album..." when asked about the direction of the band after Brand New Eyes. Regarding the album being self-titled, Williams explained "The self-titled aspect of the whole thing is definitely a statement. I feel like it's not only reintroducing the band to the world, but even to ourselves ... By the end of it, it felt like we're a new band." She also stated that she was inspired by Blondie's and Siouxsie and the Banshees' records when writing the new songs: "They’ve got so much heart and soul in them." 

On December 6, 2012, Paramore made an announcement through their official website revealing the name of the album and the release date as well as the name of the first single from the album. The track list was announced on January 18, 2013 by Alternative Press. During the 2013 Soundwave Festival, Paramore held a listening party in Sydney, New South Wales on February 26, 2013, followed by Melbourne, Victoria two days later, run by Australian Music Channel, Channel V. ]Williams revealed a section of the lyrics for the song 'Part II' which the winners were able to hear at the listening parties on a LiveJournal post. Williams told fans that "'Let The Flames Begin' has been a favorite of ours to play live, as well as being a favorite of most people who come out to our shows.... We wanted it to have a sequel. 'Part II' it is!"

The vinyl version of the album was streamed beginning on April 1, 2013 for four days, with each day playing one of the four sides. The album was then officially released on April 5, 2013. The band played an acoustic version of "Hate to See Your Heart Break" on the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge on April 3, 2013, announcing that on the same night, the full song would be premiered on their official website. On April 20, 2013, the band released an EP for Record Store Day, titled The Holiday Sessions, released exclusively on a 7" vinyl, and is composed of the three interludes from this album. A music video for "Anklebiters" was released on June 25, 2013. The song, however, was not released as a single.

The Self-Titled Tour in North America took place from October 15 to November 27, 2013. The Self-Titled Tour takes the band through 27 cities across North America, including Paramore's first headline show at Madison Square Garden. On August 22, 2013, the band announced their own cruise, called the "PARAHOY! Cruise", sailing from Miami to the Bahamas and back on board the Norwegian Pearl, which took place from March 7 to March 11, 2014. On January 9, 2014, the band, along with Fall Out Boy, announced a co-headlining North American summer tour dubbed, "Monumentour", which took place from June 19 through August 31, 2014. On January 22, 2015, Paramore announced "Writing The Future", a round of small shows across the United States, closing out the Paramore touring cycle. It lasted from April 27 to May 25, 2015.

On January 5, 2013, Paramore released a teaser of the lead single "Now", revealing a snippet of the song and the release date of the single, which was January 22, 2013. Paramore streamed the song on their website January 21, and the song was then made available for sale along with an album pre-order through iTunes the next day. In the UK, "Now" was instead released January 24, 2013. The music video for "Now" was directed by Daniel "Cloud" Campos and premiered live on MTV on February 11. It was uploaded onto YouTube the next day.

The album's second single, "Still Into You", was released on March 14, 2013. A lyric video for "Still Into You" was uploaded to YouTube a day earlier, after the band performed it live for the first time at the 2013 South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas. On September 18, 2013, "Still Into You" was certified 'platinum' by the RIAA. "Daydreaming" serves as the third single from the album. It was released on December 2, 2013 only in the UK. The music video premiered in November 5 on the UK MSN. 

"Ain't It Fun" is the fourth single from the album. The radio edit premiered August 28, 2013, and the single was released on February 4, 2014. A music video for the song was planned, but was put on hold in favor of a music video for "Daydreaming", also, as informed by Williams, the band was unhappy with how the video was turning out; A new video for "Ain't It Fun" was shot and premiered on January 29, 2014. "Ain't It Fun" then received the award for Best Rock Song at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards, a first for the band as this was their first Grammy win. On June 18, 2014, "Ain't It Fun" was certified platinum by the RIAA and then on July 8, 2015, double platinum. Shortly after, "Still Into You" received double platinum certification as well from the RIAA.

Though not released as a single, the band felt a special connection with the song "Anklebiters" and released a music video for it on April 5, 2013.

"Hate to See Your Heart Break" was re-recorded in 2014 to feature Joy Williams on vocals for inclusion on the deluxe edition of the album. A black-and-white video for the song premiered November 24, 2014. It reached number 23 on the Billboard Hot Rock Songs chart.

The album has been a major commercial success worldwide, debuting at number one in eight countries including the UK, Ireland, Scotland, Argentina, New Zealand, Brazil and Australia (where it was the eighth consecutive number one debut on the chart and also the 32nd self-titled album to top the Australian chart). The album also peaked within the top 20 of 9 other countries. In the US, the album debuted at number 1, with first week sales of 106,000 copies. This marks the first Paramore album to reach the top spot on the chart.

"Still Into You" charted within the top 10 in Australia and Ireland and reached the top 20 in several others. The single topped the UK rock chart and peaked at number 14 in the singles chart, thus becoming the band's second highest charting single in that country, behind "Ignorance" from the band's previous album Brand New Eyes. In the US, the song peaked at number 24, matching "The Only Exception" from the same album as the band's highest charting single at the time. It also peaked at number 6 in the US Rock Chart and number 8 in the US Mainstream Top 40. "Ain't It Fun" shared similar success, charting within the top 10 in Canada and Hungary. It eventually became Paramore's best selling single to date in the US, charting at number ten in the Billboard 100, number 2 in the US Mainstream Top 40 and number 1 the US Rock Chart and Adult Top 40. The single marks the first time a Paramore song has reached the Top 10 in the US.

[almaasi]

reaction post typed while watching SPN 14x05 “Nightmare Logic”

oh, what a perfectly soft and emotional Destiel-parallelly piece of Meredith Glynn artwork. so precious, so loved~

03:47pm

things i know about this: meredith glynn wrote it

LET’S WATCH

-

03:50

noooo maggie don’t do things like this alooooone

-

i like the music as she enters... kinda weird and sparkly and awkward

-

03:53

sammy...... you know what you need

someone to do the night shift

if only...... you had.............. someone else........................

*looks pointedly at dean*

-

03:55

where does sam get the financial resources for shit like body cams

we never see them running credit card scams any more so........ ???????

-

03:57

i love these cable things by the roads

so aesthetic

-

03:58

even more spooky pretty music as dean and sam enter the tomb

-

03:59

dean and sam lie so effortlessly and so in sync

i always enjoy seeing them do this, ever since dean told a firefighter he needed to go back into his apartment because he has a yorkie who pees when he’s nervous

-

04:01

aw man i thought the “colleagues” would be cas and jack

bobby and mary’s cool too

-

04:02

bobby’s wearing a cap like michael’s

and mary’s wearing a coat like cas’

..does this mean this story’s gonna be about dean’s war between those two things, like the two worlds he knows

bobby’s parenting vs. mary’s parenting

michael’s need for him as a vessel vs. cas’ love for him as a bestest buddy bro friend

not sure how bobby = micheal / mary = cas but i’m sure there’ll be some kind of explanation later

OR maybe they’re just costumes and they mean nothing

but......is that ever true? trenchcoats are automatically a cas thing now. and that cap is so iconic as michael now???

-

04:09

i relate to this lady in the suit who has had Too Much Of Everything

i enjoy seeing people know their limits and expressing them to others rather than continuing past breaking point

sam’s doing great but also....... no

take a page from this lady’s book, sammy

-

04:11

mary’s walking with sam

and i just wanna take a minute to appreciate how EASY meredith glynn’s episodes are to watch

her scripts flow so gently and everything makes logical sense

and her characters are coherent

there’s just this nice touch of emotional human realism cloaking all the supernatural weirdness and i so, so appreciate that

like.. for me personally, there’s not a single writer on the current team whose writing comes close to glynn’s

i want her to write more episodes with cas though, i know she’d write him just right

i honestly feel like i’m being hugged by someone as i watch this

so soft around my heart

is good

-

04:16

sam: “you [and bobby have] gotten pretty close lately”

mary: “i thought so too”

OH WAIT I GET IT

I GET THE COAT AND THE HAT NOW

IT’S A DESTIEL THING

OH MY FUCKING GOD HOW DID I MISS THAT

IT’S SO BLINDINGLY OBVIOUS HOLY FUCKING FUCKDISAFKDSHGF

even the casual viewers will probably have noticed this one. i know it took me a second but as soon as this discussion happened it clicked

 this is probably the most obvious parallel they’ve ever done i think

i didn’t see it before because i didn’t EXPECT it, you know?? ugh this is so validating

-

04:22

now every word mary says, i’m just envisioning how it applies to cas’ perspective too

“he’s been hunting all the time, he won’t take a break even for a second. there’s something on his mind”

yeah, that mICHEAL HAT, quite literally sitting over his head like a dark halo

-

04:26

the music in this episode is just so pleasing to my ears

-

04:31

things i appreciate:

normal people being all “wtf you hunt monsters” and just being present while dean and sam talk about their shit

sam’s reference to “hunteri heroici” (my all-time fave episode besides “scoobynatural” jdgd that was five years ago what the hell)

-

04:35

me: takes screenshot of this very pretty, very anxious lady because i want my hair to do what her hair does

-

04:36

oop we just found the dean mirror and now we get to hear someone talk about the things he feels and offer advice that ultimately helps himself

god i love this

AND THE FACT I CAN UNDERSTAND THIS PARALLEL AND WHY IT’S HAPPENING

AGAIN SOLIDIFIES THE DEAN/CAS THING WITH BOBBY/MARY

because what mary said about bobby = what cas thinks about dean = what’s true about dean = this lady being overworked = dean not taking time off from hunting

(although it does seem to specifically apply to sam as well ?)

and sam mentioned earlier about how the dad he knew and the dad mary knew were different people, plus the earlier mentions this season about john’s problematic parenting (i forget when)

yeah that really makes a point of saying john abused his kids, for sure

-

lady: “he was gone all the time, working for us, he said”

yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep

-

lady: “i worshipped him when i was a kid. didn’t know any better”

oh deanie

please take notes

please know it’s okay to be angry at john and not continue to love him in a way that excuses his behaviours, even 14 years after he died

-

wait wait wait

dean tells her to let it go, it’s the past, there’s nothing you can do about it now so it’s just baggage

WAIT

THAT MEANS

THAT MEANS HE LET THAT SHIT GO ALREADY???????

WHOA

OKAY COOL. COOL COOL COOL I’M PROUD OF YOU

now go be gay with cas

-

“i try. every single day.”

hell yeah dean winchester giving good mental health advice to people and also millions of depressed people with various traumas watching this

ngl this legit just helped me a tiny bit with my issues with my own dad

urhgutguugb meredith glynn you are the good we need in this world

..............suddenly getting real emotional because goddamn i wanna meet her someday ;~; i wanna meet 1. misha and 2. meredith glynn, maaaaybe 3. jensen idk

mEREDITH GLYNN IS MY KINDRED SPIRIT

and DEAN WINCHESTER HELPS ME BE A MORE SELF-ACCEPTING PERSON

yay

-

04:49

no but like.......... everyone seemed to enjoy last week’s episode, i only saw people posting good reviews. and i felt bad not not enjoying it, even though all the things people pointed out should’ve been right up my alley, something about the overall thing just fell flat for me

but this one

this one speaks to my heart

-

04:53

maggie: “i didn’t mean to get caught--”

sam: “no no no, stop that. you did nothing wrong. okay?”

sam being a better dad to maggie than john ever was to anyone

-

04:57

OH NO BOBBY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OH NO!!!!!!!!!!!

-

05:01

dean: “you’re giving him transfusions?”

nurse: “keeps up his iron”

suddenly i don’t trust the nurse

trying to take over the property maybe? a la scooby-doo, it’s always about real estate

-

05:02

dean: “sasha, could you go....... make me a ....sandwich ?”

DEAN NO

(i type, in pain, as i laugh)

-

/rewatches that interaction because it was actually really sweet the way dean mouthed “go” to sasha and she understood

-

05:05

i’ve wanted a djinn story for SO LONG

(even wrote one myself - Prince of the Ether Realms)

trust glynn to be the one to re-weave the exact threads of this 14-year saga that also interest me specifically

also kudos for the fact she’s so obviously knowledgeable about the ENTIRE HISTORY of the show, as opposed to certain other writers who seem to contradict previous facts and re-reference things that were used differently before to make an important point, thereby nullifying the first point when used a second time

-

05:11

hunter with the shaved head 10/10 style

headcanoning them as non-binary and into girls because of reasons

also there was a slight continuity error, this hunter hugs maggie twice in the two consecutive shots

-

05:15

bobby: “it ends the same” [with bobby dead, i guess?]

mary: “no. you are not allowed to give up on me”

seeing this as dean and cas again

yeah i saw someone mention how at the end of last episode, dean suggesting they drive off a cliff and sam being like NOPE kind of reflected the wrongness of the they-all-die-at-the-end for the finale of SPN

and i think this brings it back to that again

i agree that the best ending is the one where they live to fight another day, not go out guns a-blazing

and this is cas telling dean he’s not allowed to give up and die because he wants to live side-by-side for as long as they can

i just really really want cas to say that to dean in a soft emotional scene like this. we don’t really get those unless they’re parallels??? and i wANT MORE DEAN AND CAS TALKING ABOUT THEIR FEELINGS DAMMIT

-

05:20

DEAN AND CAS PARALLELS um i mean BOBBY AND MARY GOING OFF TO HANG OUT ALONE IN A CABIN OF LOVE AND HEALING

GDI LET DEAN AND CAS DO THAT TOO

but also awwww i actually kinda like the mary/bobby thing? because at the core, they ARE dean and sam’s parents, really

family don’t end with blood etc

bobby was the dad john never was

-

05:23

sam: USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM

this is so satisfying

next up: hula hoops of salt and iron knuckle-dusters

-

05:25

i love love love that dean can have a healthy mental approach to this shit, finally

i’m so fucking proud of him you don’t even know

i just......... i really wanna see him not only return to baseline mental goodness, but then overcome that and become greater at his zen thing, and then AT LAST be ready to accept cas’ love for what it is: romantic and everlasting and epic, and not have to interpret it into something else or ignore it to protect himself

-

05:28

that light over dean’s shoulder is the angel on his shoulder

but is it michael or cas?

i’m going with cas, given that michael is a dark-hat-halo

-

05:30pm

it’s over

that was amaziiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing ;u;

bless meredith glynn for existing and bringing us such beautiful stories

BUT WHAT HAPPENED WITH THE GARDENER

WHY WAS HE THERE besides to ~add some colour~??? and i guess a red herring for viewers, so we have someone to suspect?

(idk. i never suspected him, because he was black and meredith glynn is better than that - unless she was trying to trick racist viewers?? (i know there's a lot of them, i saw the super-toxic comment section on instagram when jared, jensen and misha posted a “vote beto” thing the other day. and there was a poll mentioned at comic con once, half the american spn fanbase are republicans??? guess they really love guns and fascism))

i don’t really have anything to add here, i said it all as i went along

that dean/cas parallel....... oh boy

just please please please pleASE can we have Actual Destiel and not just parallels and hints. like. they barely talk???????? HOW IS THIS A SHOW WHERE TWO OF THE MAIN LEADS ARE CONSTANTLY FRAMED TO BE IN LOVE, WE’RE TOLD THEY’RE BEST FRIENDS, BUT WE ALMOST NEVER EVEN SEE THEM TOGETHER ANY MORE

HOW IS THIS HAPPENING

anyway the costuming was just so very UNSUBTLE and obvious and i think a lot of people would’ve caught that parallel even if they weren’t looking for it

music was good, directing was good, sasha’s hair was good, nobody we know actually died, that was good too

10/10

ten thumbs up

yeee

[mimi-love-4ever]

Training

SasuSaku Month 2018 - Day 15: Training Rating: T A/N: This is a continuation of Day 8 (Flowers). Couldn’t resist. ;) Thank you for reading and I hope you like it! 

Day 8 (Flowers)

Day 14 (Wait For Me)

It had been a week since Tsunade had finally allowed Sakura to come back to work, having extended her leave for a couple more days. Thanks to Sasuke and his ever observant eyes watching her every wince of discomfort and small lack of appetite. She would have been upset if this had been any other situation, but she used her new free time to spend time with Sasuke and even the other boys. However, for some reason, Sakura started having bouts of insomnia and the little she did manage to sleep was plagued with nightmares. She was no stranger to nightmares. She had been in a war and seen countless of people die, some right under her hands, but after seeking a couple of counseling sessions she was able to cope with the horrors she saw. The last time she had a full-fledged nightmare was about a year ago, so when another one invaded her dreams, she was not prepared for it. The only thing she was thankful for was that Sasuke had not been around to hear her scream or see her rocking on her bed trying to forget the images.

Working long, and sometimes tedious, hours was a blessing in disguise for Sakura. Most of the time they left her so exhausted that she had no room to think or dream. She’d come home late at night, check on Sasuke - he’d moved back in with her - in the guest room and faceplant her bed. It wasn’t perfect, or entirely healthy, but it was a system that kept her moving forward. That is, until it didn’t work anymore.

After the fourth consecutive night of nightmares and insomnia, she’d had enough. She threw the sweat covered sheets away from her angrily and got dressed in a pair of leggings then threw on a light sweater over her tank top. She snatched a pack of kunai to wrap around her leg and an old pair of sneakers from her closet, and headed towards her window. Knowing full well she was sneaking out like a rebellious teenager - from her own apartment - as to not rouse Sasuke’s suspicion, made her feel the tiniest bit of guilt, but she wanted to be alone. Although she and Sasuke had grown impossibly close ever since he came back, there was still that fear that she’d do something that would somehow make him realize she was still that weak girl from all those years ago.

Once Sakura slipped outside quietly, she took to the roofs and ran to one of the far training grounds on the Northside of Konoha enclosed by a multitude of trees. It was secluded and gave her the privacy she wanted, not to mention the wooden posts placed strategically in various areas that offered her a source to vent her frustrations on. She sighed heavily, glanced at the waning moon wistfully, and began jogging around the field to warm-up. She ran mindlessly for a couple of laps before zeroing in on the wooden posts and hitting them in sequence. The harsh texture of the wood rubbed against her bare skin painfully since she didn’t have her gloves with her, but the sensations were welcomed. They distracted her.

Again and again she aimed her fists at the posts, each hit landing harder than the next. It was impossible to tell how long she kept at it, for her mind had finally wandered away from what kept her up at night, until one particular blow stung much more deeply than the rest. Sakura’s eyes refocused on the scene in front of her and winced as she looked at her bruised and bloody knuckles. Her heartbeat drummed quick against her chest and her breathing was labored. A small bead of sweat ran down her neck, letting her know just how hard she had been training. Not entirely satisfied, but in no mood to cause any real damage to herself, Sakura sat down on the grass and let herself fall on her back as she tried to calm down. The wind blew mercifully through the trees and the grounds, cooling the perspiration on her flushed skin.

“Stop being weak, Haruno,” she whispered to herself gazing at the stars. “They’re just nightmares, nothing more.”

She couldn’t help but wonder how Sasuke coped with his nightmares. She wouldn’t pretend that she hadn’t heard him once or twice, muttering countless I’m sorry’s and names of people long since passed, in his sleep when she’s gotten home from work. His episodes never lasted as long as hers and she wondered if he found a way to deal, or if he simply grew used to them, which was a really sad thought.

“I’ll need to inform Tsunade if you keep talking to yourself like that.”

Sakura shot up from the ground with a startled squeak and faced the direction where the voice had come from. Standing against the trunk of a tree, looking as calm as ever, was her dark-haired companion. His cool midnight orbs locked on her anxious jade eyes with such intensity, she felt a shiver run down her spine and all the way down to her toes. He was in nothing but sweatpants and a black t-shirt. The disarray of his hair was enough to suggest he had been sleeping not long ago.

“S-Sasuke,” she managed to say after a few moments of composing herself. “What are you doing here?”

He ignored her question, keeping her rooted to her spot with only his stare. “Midnight training?”

“Eh, yeah, something like that,” Sakura finally managed to answer.

“Hn.” Sasuke pushed away from the trunk, never breaking eye contact, and approached her slowly.

Sakura stayed rooted to her spot, watching his every step as he came closer to her. For a second she felt like her anxiety shot through the roof, but as he stopped right in front of her, a strange sense of serenity settled over her. Sasuke grabbed one of her still bleeding hands and frowned, inspecting the wounds.

“Tell me what’s wrong, Sakura,” he murmured softly as he started wiping away the blood with his shirt. A tight knot formed in her throat at the concern she could see shining in his eyes. She shook her head in response, finally breaking eye contact. “I see… How about a spar, then?”

“What?”

Sasuke smirked. “Spar with me, Sa-ku-ra.”

All thoughts flew out the window at the sight of his smirk, which seemed way more sensual than Sakura cared to admit. But she still enjoyed it.

“Fine, Sa-su-ke.”

She tugged her hand away from his and healed the wounds, threads of excitement filling her at the prospect of some training alone with her dear Sasuke. They both stepped closer to the middle of the training ground.

“Nothing fancy, just the basics,” Sasuke stated, sensing her low chakra levels.

He moved first without waiting for confirmation and went on the offensive. Just like when they trained together all those weeks ago, he tested her reflexes and defensive stances to get a better read of her fighting style. And just like before, her forms were powerful and well-developed. She had been the Godaime’s apprentice after all.

They circled each other, throwing a kick or punch here and there, testingly. Though they both kept their expressions neutral, as to not give anything away, on the inside they both felt an inescapable connection pulling them closer and closer until they had no choice but to collide. Sasuke felt a wave of desire burn through his being as he regarded the pink-haired kunoichi. The air crackled with electricity around them.

Sakura shot forward and engaged him in a series of well-aimed punches that would have knocked him out for sure if he let one land. The tables turned as he went on the defensive and Sakura wasted no time in keeping up. All the frustrations she had been keeping in burst forward and fueled her attacks, increasing in speed and voracity. It was enough to awaken his sharingan to keep him from falling under her attacks.

They spared against one another until they both collapsed on the ground, exhaustion weighing down their limbs. Sakura pulled Sasuke down to lay on his back next to her to regain their breathing. A calm silence settled between the two for a while as they stared up at the sky.

“Nightmares, right?” Sasuke spoke up after a while.

She wanted to deny it, but she couldn’t lie to him. “Yes.”

“Does it happen often?” He asked.

“Not for a while now, honestly,” she replied, shrugging. “After the war, it happened every night, but I’ve learned to cope with the things I’ve seen. I guess it just never really goes away and sometimes I don’t have the ability to deal with them.”

“I’ve learned that sometimes it’s not about dealing with them,” Sasuke said turning his head to face her. Sakura turned to look at him too, curiously.

He raised his hand from the grass and caressed her cheek tenderly. The unexpected action caused a blush to tint her cheeks. He couldn’t help but smile slightly.

“Sometimes, you have to replace those nightmares with something else. Something more valuable…” Sasuke trailed off in a whisper, leaning towards her slowly.

Their lips met in the middle. A thousand butterflies exploded in her stomach and her heart sped up like a hummingbird’s wings as it filled up with her love for him. Her body moved on its own, scooting closer to him until there was no space in between them. Neither complained, reveling in the warmth of their bodies combined. Sasuke slid his hand from her cheek down to her smooth neck and further down to her waist. Sakura gasped into his mouth as he tentatively squeezed the small amount of flesh that been exposed with her sweater riding up. She felt her body come alive with his touch, and may the stars fall from the night sky and the sun dry up, she never wanted him to stop.

[iwillwakeherinthemorning]

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

A Leonard McCoy x Reader fic

Word Count: 1200+

Summary: So this is purely a self indulgent fic. If you can't tell from the title, P.O.T.S. or Dysautonomia , as it is so named is a rare heart condition that affects mostly women between ages 15-50. I happen to be one of them. I’ve really been struggling with it lately and hoped that maybe writing about it could help. 

Warnings: really shitty writing, medical triggers.

You were in the med bay now for your 13th consecutive hour on extra shift duty.  Being a nurse on the starship Enterprise had been one of the most exhilarating adventures of your lifetime. The captain had a sense of adventure unmatched by many in the fleet. And ever since you had graduated from the academy you knew that you had wanted to be apart of his crew. Doctor Leonard McCoy’s med bay might have had something to do with your wanderlust for this “tin can” as well.

All of your love for this life you were living couldn't account for the level of pure exhaustion you were feeling after your current shift. The aforementioned captain had received a false distress signal to lure the Enterprise and her crew in to awaiting enemy hands. What the captain and commander had intended to find was a distressed colony of the federation but what met them was a band of space pirates. Injuries were received and lives were lost. Thankfully none too serious on your side of the battle, but what did come back from the away mission had been something that had kept you and the good doctor in the med bay for longer than usual. 13 hours longer than the regulation 12 hour shift.

Usually, you and Leonard could be akin to passing ships in the night. One would be leaving and the other entering. Tonight was no different. Until the frantic call of “Nurse Y/L/N I need you in the med bay stat!” came through your personal comm and “All available medical personnel to med bay” came through the ship wide comm in Dr. McCoy’s “take no shit” voice. You had just laid down for a much needed rest and were already being called back.

And now here you were. Attending to one of the red shirts who first came in. The hullabaloo of the initial emergency had finally calmed to a steady roar and you could see a light at the end of the tunnel. Thankfully so because now you had room to breathe, and think, and hear the heartbeat pounding in your head. And now that you thought about it, hadn't that been going on for a while now? Like hours long? Leonard was one bed over and he could see the gears turning in your head. Adept at seeing someone in pain like a sixth sense, he had been able to see that you were hurting since hour three on this hectic emergency. He was also one of the only people on the Enterprise, hell the whole of Star Fleet, who knew of your condition. He also knew that you were the only nurse that he trusted besides Chapel to know what the hell was going on. Which is why he allowed you to stay on shift. Much to his and Chapel’ own consternation. Now that the med bay was slowing to a manageable position he was ready to “hypo your ass” in to a well deserved sleep. 

“Y/N, Darlin were fine here now. Why don't you go get some rest?” He said after he had pulled you over to the nurses station in lieu of you walking to the next bed. His hand on your shoulder had been a welcomed distraction from the constant bass drum of your heart. And as he looked at you he regretted not ordering you out earlier. Your face was pale. The bags under your eyes had bags and he wasn't sure but it looked as though you were concealing a shallow breath and shaky hands. “On second thought, you're gonna sit down. And were gonna get some fluids in you.” He assessed quite quickly seating you in a nearby chair. 

“I’m fine, Len. I promise.” You said full well knowing that your weren't. And if you weren't careful you would need to be in one of those beds next.

“Shut it, darlin’. You're not gettin’ out of this.” He began grabbing you a water from the replicator. “When was the last time you drank anything?” He asked and immediately regretted it. 

“Oh I don't know. Last night as I was getting ready to go to sleep. I’ve been busy, Len.” You bit back with as much grit as possible. 

“I’m sorry.” He began. Looking well and truly chastised. “I know I called you but I don't want you potentially hurting yourself if I can help it. Dysautonomia is serious and I just wanna make sure you're okay.”

“It’s fine, Len. I know you're just trying to help.” You said, finishing the water, feeling much better. But as soon as you said it and in concert attempted to stand up, you ended up on the floor passed out cold. 

30 minutes later...

“Len she’s gonna be fine.” You heard the voice of your best friend, Christine Chapel say under the fog of sleep. “She’s strong. She just needs sleep and plenty of fluids.”

“I know, Chris.” You heard the voice you most wanted say. “I just feel like I could have prevented this. I could have made her stand down. Made her rest. Hell I should have never comm’d her in the first place.” He finished his rant at a muffled and frustrated volume. 

“Doctor you know just as well as I do that this is not your fault. You didn't cause this. Y/N’s a big girl. She would have rested if she needed to.” Christine attempted. “But you saw that mess out there. And you damn well know that she is the most talented and head strong nurse we have. She likely didn't know what was going on until it happened.” She finished and you wanted to smile wide at how well your best friend knew you and Leonard cared. “You stay here with her and I’ll notify you if we have anything major.” And Christine was gone. 

As soon as the automated doors to your private room closed your eyes opened to see your boyfriend scrubbing his face in the chair by your bed. He looked nearly as bad as you felt. Blood shot eyes. Extreme fatigue. And the look of someone who didn't know what to do. 

“Len.” You whispered reaching the short distance to grasp his hand. 

“Hey, sugar. How’re ya feelin’?” He asked gripping your hands with both of his. 

“To be honest like I’ve been hit in the chest with a phaser.” You said slightly joking. The joke wasn't taken well and you were being fussed over by a very worried Leonard McCoy. “Babe it was just a joke. I’m fine I promise.” You said trying to get him to settle. “I probably will want to sleep for a few days but I’m fine.”

“Well that’s good darlin’ ‘cause I’ve just signed off for 3 days medical leave. And ordered bed rest.” He said with a pointed look. “Don't even try to fight me on this. You could have done some serious damage today, baby. I don't want to see you like that. I don't want you working yourself that hard.” He continued after sitting down again. 

“We’ll figure this out, Y/N. I promise you that.” He said pressing a tender kiss to your forehead. “Please just try to pay attention to how you feel yeah?”

“Sure, Len. I promise.” You said pulling him up to lay on the bed with you. 

Christine found you both there fifteen minutes later. Fast asleep. And immediately put the sound proof barrier on the room and shutting off the lights on her way out.