#this is a casual fun solo project after all ^ ^;

[yukipri]

I finally got a beta for my fic!! May I introduce: Sabo!

For his first time editing, he deleted my entire chapter and instead wrote:

Wow, he can type with his ass. Skills.

April Fool's (but he really did type that)

Cats tag: #YukiPriASLKittens

[dramagodesss]

three : hottie on watch

playin' the players

rafe's phone

you adjusted the strap of your camera and stepped toward the rink, boots echoing faintly on the concrete. warm-ups were already in full swing—sticks clacking, blades carving arcs into the ice. a few heads turned as you approached, but it was rafe who straightened first, like someone had tugged a string attached to his spine.

"hey john b," you said with a small smile as you passed him. he grinned back, relaxed and familiar, nodding like he remembered exactly how much fun you’d had at the welcome party.

then you turned your attention to the taller figure just a few feet away.

“rafe, right? i think we met at the welcome party friday?”

he blinked. “yeah. uh—yeah, we did.”

his skates were only half-laced, one of them still dangling from his grip like he’d forgotten what he was doing. you watched the hesitation, that half-second stutter of recognition.

"you’re y/n. winslow," he added quickly, almost too quickly—like he’d rehearsed it.

you smiled. “wow. full name recall? i’m flattered.”

“alright,” one of the older girls from the photography team called, clipboard in hand as she scanned down her list. “we’re pairing off for solo profiles—coach wants everyone to have updated shots for the media kits.”

she looked up, eyes landing on you. “y/n, you’ve got cameron and routledge.”

you blinked. rafe and john b. two sides of the chaos coin.

“got it,” you said easily, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear as you stepped forward. “where do you want us?”

“use the south wall—natural light’s best there right now. we’ll rotate you in for group shots after.”

you turned back toward the boys. rafe had clearly heard—he was already watching you, jaw tight, expression unreadable. john b, ever the contrast, gave you a casual thumbs-up and a bright grin.

“guess i’m yours for the next ten minutes,” you said to rafe, voice lilting somewhere between playful and daring.

he hesitated, just for a second. “you sure that’s enough time?”

you lifted your camera slowly, lining up the shot. “depends how well you behave.”

he let out a short breath—almost a laugh—and stepped under the light.

“what do you want me to do?” he asked, voice low.

“just… be yourself,” you said, adjusting the lens. then, after a beat, “unless being yourself means clenching your jaw like it owes you money. in that case—maybe relax?”

behind you, john b snorted.

rafe rolled his eyes, but the corner of his mouth twitched. you caught it.

click.

the rest of the shoot moved fast—portraits, candid action, a few group shots. you gave quiet direction while your teammates helped with light and reflectors. jj kept cracking jokes and stepping into your frame like he was born for it. rafe watched, saying little, his focus more on you than the camera.

kelce and topper hovered with twitchy nerves, while john b and pope stayed laid-back and helpful, easing the mood. still, it was clear: two of them were trying hard to be seen. and not just by your camera.

“alright,” you said, pulling the camera down. “you’re all free to go terrorize the campus again.”

a few fake groans. john b gave a real thank you, pope too. rafe lingered—then turned before he spoke.

you packed slowly.

jj was already waiting by the bleachers.

“yo,” he called, tipping his chin up. “you need a model for that magic camera of yours?”

you glanced over your shoulder, eyes gleaming.

“you volunteering, maybank?”

he smirked. “only if you’re behind the lens.”

you let out a soft laugh, shaking your head as you adjusted the weight of your gear on your shoulder.

“actually,” you said, pausing just long enough to make him tilt his head, “i do need a model.”

jj perked up immediately, grinning like he’d just won something.

“for a portrait project,” you added, pretending not to notice the way he instantly tried to stand taller, like he was already posing. “but if you’re too busy charming the entire campus, i can find someone else…”

jj’s face dropped into mock offense. “what? no! no need for that—you got me right here, princess.” he thumped a hand on his chest like he was pledging allegiance. “jj maybank at your service.”

you smirked. “you sure? it’s kinda artsy. real up-close-and-personal stuff. long sessions. direction-heavy.”

“sounds like my kind of thing,” he said without missing a beat. “especially if it means i get to be around you without half the hockey team hovering.”

that pulled a real smile from you. “alright then. i’ll dm you the concept and details.”

jj made a face. “ugh. dms?” he shook his head like you’d just suggested he use linkedin for flirting. “nah, i always forget to check them. plus, last time i did, i accidentally left someone on read for like... three months. it got weird.”

you raised an eyebrow, amused. “sounds like a you problem.”

“probably,” he said, grinning. “but we can prevent it. skip the ghosting risk—give me your number. make it real.”

he held out his phone, wiggling it like a bribe.

“here. go on—bless my contacts.”

you rolled your eyes but took it, fingers flying as you added your number under y/n winslow.

“perfect,” jj said when you handed it back. “now i’ve got a reason to blow up your phone.”

you turned, walking backwards toward the exit. “just don’t send mirror selfies at 3 a.m. or feet pics. we’re not there yet.”

jj grinned wide, walking backwards in sync. “yet?”

you laughed again. “we’ll see how you do in front of the camera, maybank.”

and with that, you turned and disappeared down the hall, leaving jj maybank already feeling like a winner.

taglist : @beewritess @davinashifts333 @lanasangelsz @littlefreak-liz @drewstarkeyswife0 @lalaloopsieparty @ethanthequeefqueen @wtfisastiles @angelicameron @moth-feeet @drewstarkeyswife-7

[goldenhickeyss]

Jimin & Jungkook in 2023 – What Makes Them Special?

We've seen a lot of threads about Jimin and Jungkook lately, talking about their lives, sexualities, personalities, relationships, and everything else.

But let’s be real: no matter your stance, their bond is undeniably special—way deeper than just "friends."

It’s always been unique, but 2023 put them under a microscope (of anties, especially). But even then, they did things that screamed "DIFFERENT", pointing to a much deeper emotional connection—one that stands apart.

Let's see...

Jungkook’s ALL-IN Support for Jimin’s Album

Let’s talk about how Jungkook went out of his way to hype Jimin’s first personal album.

This is different cause … he DIDN’T DO THE SAME for anyone else

NOT visiting anyone else’s rehearsals while being recorded,

NOT reacting to their content in VLives,

NOT jumping onto his live streams, and

NOT publicly congratulating anyone else on Weverse, or commenting his related posts

Not saying he wasn’t supportive of the other members (he totally was), but the energy was different. This wasn’t OT7 vibes; this was “Jimin-first” energy.

The member who has supported Jimin the most in Ch2 is Jungkook…….as well as Jungkook is the member that Jimin has always needed to praise the most…

2. Jungkook openly saying he missed Jimin and wanted to spend time with him. FINALLY!

It’s funny how some antis claim the car conversation proves they weren’t seeing each other, even though we literally saw them together at Yoongi’s concert just two weeks earlier.

Plus, AYS was planned way back in April (or even earlier)!

If anything, that convo actually shows how much Jungkook wanted to spend more time with Jimin doing something different (remember the whole thing started because Jimin mentioned they hadn’t travelled together in ages).

And Jimin knew about it and that’s why maybe he always took some time to drop sweet, loving messages for Jungkook during his VLives.

Jungkook not only expressed this longing with his actions but also directly said it on Weverse, making sure both Jimin and fans understood just how much he missed him. No beating around the bush, no subtle hints—he wanted to spend time with him.

Even if we take the car convo literally and assume they didn’t see each other much early in 2023, here’s what haters ignore: they FIXED it.

Jimin suggested a trip, Jungkook was all in, and they didn’t just go once—they went three times. Jungkook’s “FINALLY” wasn’t random; it was relief.

They made it work, spent the rest of the year together, and BEYOND

3. Choosing to do a travel show together and including a visit to Tokyo

This says a lot about their intentions. At first glance, these trips might seem not relevant compared to “others,” as many would dismiss them as purely work-related. But we all saw that wasn’t the case.

With their solo projects already winning hearts, these trips weren’t needed for promotion. Plus, they could have used that time to record more things on their own, as other members did.

But nah, despite their busy schedules, they took three trips, the best on of their lifes, and planned activities the other would love, and simply made time to be together (FINALLY!☺️) and shared that joy with us.

They even spent private moments in the US, Jeju Island (if we count the night before 😉) and in Tokyo, a meaningful place for them, and spent their last days together before enlisting.

Jungkook did also travel to Busan & Jeju with friends, to Japan with Eunwoo or to skiing with Tae & his friends, especially at the beginning of the year, when he had more free time.

The fact that most of these trips revolved around fun physical activities or enjoying food doesn’t seem like a coincidence—after all, this is Jungkook we’re talking about! 😊

These outings were casual, open, and far from secretive or overly intimate. Jungkook shared bits about them openly.

4. Prioritizing Time Together

Whether it was traveling, working, or just chilling, Jimin and Jungkook made each other a priority in 2023. They could’ve easily done other things, but nah—they chose each other. And they told us.

5. Spending the night together

Okay, this might not sound like a big deal... until you think about when it happened. Like the night before Jeju.

Jungkook was fresh off a third US trip that month and must’ve been EXHAUSTED. There was no reason for them to spend that night together since they were going to be glued the next three days—except for wanting to share a private moment before the trip began, since Tae became a last-minute special guest.

6. Shared Domestic Vibes

Jungkook cooking for Jimin, making sure he eats well, and knowing all the little things about each other? That was COUPLE energy!

Inside jokes, fave meals, random daily updates—they know it all. Considering the members haven’t lived together since like 2020, it says a lot.

7. Not being bothered when fans drop hints that clearly suggest a romantic connection.

They’ve never shied away

8. Flirting online

Because YES, THIS HAPPENED. If you know, you know. 👀

9. Enlisting together

What more can be said about their choice of the buddy system? They chose to go through this big, life-changing moment TOGETHER.

10. Being Each Other’s Daily Constant

And making it clear, in both big and small ways, that they are an integral part of each other’s daily lives, challenging the narrative pushed by their most toxic fans.

Like Jungkook casually sharing in his last Vlive that he's with Jimin (every day)—they see e/o after his cooking duties or even in the shower (!)—and Jimin constantly showing how important Jungkook is to him.

What some call “name-dropping” is just them being honest about how much they mean to each other.

Stuff like plushies, bathroom selfies, or confirmation because of an fan's artwork pushed by a restaurant’s owner trying to make a buck are just silly theories— Let’s be real… Claims about their sexuality or relationships in 2023, blurry videos, or IG posts by random people are just baseless speculation.

And EVEN if some of the rumors out there did hold some truth, they wouldn’t change, NEVER, Jimin and Jungkook’s obvious REAL LOVE and emotional dependece we can all see —clear and undeniable.

[soob1nn]

INTERVIEWS - ADULT FAME DR

REMINDER! I haven’t shifted yet, so all these is just my imagination 🤍

masterlist - main mastelist

Interviews, a dynamic form of communication, serve as a gateway to understanding individuals, their experiences, and their perspectives. Whether conducted for journalistic purposes, research, or casual conversation, interviews unravel stories, insights, and the diverse tapestry of human narratives. Through questions and answers, interviews facilitate connection, exploration, and the exchange of knowledge, offering a platform to explore the depth and richness of the human experience.

THE TONIGHT SHOW - JIMMY FALLON

2019

Appearing on "The Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon was an absolute blast. We sat down to discuss my upcoming film, "Knives Out," diving into the intriguing details of the project. The conversation seamlessly flowed from the movie to my recent photoshoot, which evidently left everyone with their mouths agape. Jimmy, true to his playful style, explored various facets of my life, including my marriage with Penn, a topic we hadn't openly discussed before. The atmosphere was light and enjoyable as we delved into a range of topics, spiced up by games that had us both laughing. The entire experience was a perfect blend of fun, genuine conversation, and a touch of Jimmy's signature humor, making it a memorable night on "The Tonight Show."

HOT ONES - SEAN EVANS

2021

Appearing on "Hot Ones" was an exhilarating experience that blended spice, humor, and insightful conversations. While I might not have aced the wing challenge, the intense flavors added a unique element to the interview. Adorned with plenty of jewelry, devouring wings proved to be a slight challenge, adding an amusing twist to the fiery ordeal. Sean Evans skillfully steered the conversation through my future projects, providing a platform to discuss everything from quarantine experiences to the unexpected hobbies I explored in my free time. The entire encounter was a flavorful journey, where the heat of the wings mirrored the warmth of engaging discussions on "Hot Ones."

WIRED AUTOCOMPLETE INTERVIEW

2021

The Wired Autocomplete Interview was a solo adventure filled with fun, especially after just wrapping up filming for the new sequel "Top Gun: Maverick." As I navigated through the most searched questions about me on the internet, the queries ranged from the infamous kiss between Andrew Garfield and Ryan Reynolds at the Golden Globes (an event I attended) to unraveling the story behind a song I wrote five years ago. Exploring topics like my transition from medicine school to acting, the interview provided a platform to address lingering curiosities. The experience was not only informative but incredibly enjoyable, and I left with the feeling that I'd gladly dive into it again.

SPILL YOUR GUTS - JAMES CORDEN

2022

Stepping into the "Spill Your Guts" segment with James Corden alongside Miles Teller was quite the adventure, especially as we discussed our latest film, "Top Gun: Maverick." Rocking a green suit and a white T-shirt, topped off with green nails, I brought a colorful vibe to the interview. Things got personal when they probed about my marriage with Penn, a topic we had kept private since our separation. The questions delved into the reasons behind our divorce, shedding light on a part of my life rarely discussed in the press. To add a twist, there was even a question about revisiting a relationship reminiscent of our (miles and I) teenage years. The segment blended humor, revelation, and a touch of nostalgia, giving viewers a unique peek into the unexpected turns of celebrity interviews.

73 QUESTIONS - VOUGE

2022

Vogue's 73 Questions interviews not only offer a rapid-fire insight into the lives of celebrities but also grant fans an unprecedented peek into their homes. As I navigated through the questions, my fans got to explore various corners of my house, creating a more intimate connection. The inquiries ranged from my hobbies to a tour of my extensive library, where I shared books I've read, those waiting to be explored, and even recommended some favorites. Responding to the curiosity about my culinary skills, I discussed what I enjoy eating and whether I possess any culinary prowess. To add a musical note, they asked me to play the piano, a personal touch that added an extra layer to the interview. Vogue's 73 Questions not only captures the essence of celebrities' lives but also establishes a direct and engaging connection with the audience.

VANITY FAIR LIE DETECTOR

2023

Participating in Vanity Fair's Lie Detector interview alongside Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively was an absolute riot, made even more memorable by the fact that I wore an entire pink outfit that drew compliments. The atmosphere was lively and playful throughout, and we had an incredible amount of fun. In a particularly memorable moment, Ryan turned the tables on me, asking about a quirky incident during quarantine when his beloved Canadian maple syrup mysteriously disappeared. Despite my denial, the lie detector hilariously exposed the truth, and Ryan, who has a deep love for that syrup, was genuinely offended. The revelation left us all in fits of laughter, and Ryan playfully expressed his dismay, sharing that he had to wait a whopping two years to go back to Canada and buy his cherished maple syrup again. The Lie Detector interview, with its blend of humor, fashion flair, and unexpected revelations, became a delightful and beautiful experience.

THE TONIGHT SHOW - JIMMY FALLON

2023

During my recent appearance on "The Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon, we delved into the exciting details of my upcoming film, "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo." Jimmy expressed his admiration for the character and my performance, playfully saying "I think the academy is calling Winter!" Our conversation extended to the source material, the book, where we shared our favorite scenes and discussed the nuanced differences between the film adaptation and the literary masterpiece. I revealed that I was already a devoted fan of the book before the film was announced, and my audition was fueled by a genuine love for the character of Evelyn Hugo. Expressing how the role had elevated my craft, I shared with Jimmy that stepping into Evelyn's shoes was not just acting; it was a transformative experience. At the premiere, I found myself feeling more like Evelyn Hugo than Winter Jackman, a testament to the immersive joy that this role brought to my journey as an actress.

[ut-versotale]

Update Time, Update Time

Welcome back, everyone. Hope you all had a very happy New Years! I come bearing a late present for you all: A Versotale update!

Game Progress

As I anticipated, I needed to take a break around the middle of November so I could focus on schoolwork. Now that we've been on break for a little while again and will continue to be for the better part of January, I've already gotten a sizable chunk of stuff done. Still not as much as I would've LIKED to have completed - There are still like only three fully-completed rooms at the moment, and even then they have a ton of WIP assets and first-pass dialogue and all - but, that is the way of coding a game solo, mostly from scratch, and with the occasional glances at Undertale's code, isn't it?

Unfortunately, while I really want to share stuff with you guys, it's all in some way a spoiler that I don't want to spoil for the people who'd rather experience everything fresh for themselves.

...

So, if you DO wanna experience everything fresh for yourself, feel free to bow out of this post here. If you're sticking around, enjoy some mild spoiler-y content, some character designs, and some fun vague allusions to things I still really wanna talk about! I need to give you guys SOMETHING after this long wait, right?

Game Progress: Slightly Spoiler-y Edition

The OPENING CUTSCENE you saw a while back has been tweaked slightly to make Hercine more likable, and so the dialogue can flow a bit more naturally.

Two new cutscenes have been added to the beginning, albeit with some rough visuals. These three all flow into each other, and if you're speaking through each line of dialogue, they only take up about six minutes total. Still, it is a TAD bit too long for my liking without any gameplay behind it, so there's a chance I might cut a cutscene or switch the order of things around so there's a brief gameplay section before the last one. Who knows.

Undyne has been redesigned. Undyne now sports some less bulky armor that combines aspects of her canon casual and armored forms. If she's gonna be there the entire game, she may as well have a visually-interesting design rather than the blob of bluish-grey her armor used to be. I'm sure some people will consider this a downgrade, which is always the risk you run when you redesign a character you've already shown off... but I personally just can't stand working with that old design any longer. The colors barely pop, it looks messy, the armor's boring and flat-colored and almost even blends into her scales, etc.

You didn't get to see the outdated Frisk design I had for this iteration of the project, and I'm glad you didn't, because upon writing more of their scenes and reconfiguring their personality, I HAD to redesign them again. I don't anticipate this one changing ANY time soon, but, as with Undyne, no promises.

Next up, some important human characters in the first area that AREN'T Frisk! You'll meet them later on, and I really hope you all end up liking them and the story behind them! In the meantime, here, have their designs. Again, they might change, but I'm comfortable with these for now.

That's all I feel comfortable showing off for the first area at the moment! I'm hoping to record everything up until the first save point and post it on YouTube at some point before the end of January (Again, as I must reiterate, in its very unfinished form), but no promises!

While that's all for the first area, I have been poking around with redesigning some of the later characters you guys have not even seen yet. Particularly, the primary antagonist of the new Cold West. I have to admit, I was a little worried that, if I didn't switch up his design, people would start comparing him to Clover since Undertale Yellow is still fresh in a lot of our memories right now, but... I think you guys will really like "The long scarf of the law." He's a fun character.

Alright, that's all from me! I hope you guys enjoyed this brief little peek at some mild spoiler-y content! I hope to be back soon with some neat stuff for y'all to see in action!

[starryjkoo]

But what did Jungkook say to have Yoongi reply with “there’s something about Jimin that tugs at your heartstrings” lol? Are we getting some extra cute, extra endearing Jimin content in that variety show? What kind of little story did JK tell Yoongi to get that kind of response, I’m dying I need it now 😫

Also the way JK was just smiling so big and laughing the whole time. He was so endeared. I seriously love them. Yoongi too (more big smiles). I love how Jimin randomly and casually just told Yoongi he was going to the US the next day to have a drink with JK and Yoongi’s bemused but supportive response. Also the fact that Jikook randomly called Yoongi while they were there! I hope we get to see that conversation.

Sounds like things were a little chaotic from JK’s description, so I’m really looking forward to seeing what all went down because it’s always more fun when there’s a little chaos involved imo (as long as it wasn’t something that actually caused them trouble). Like from the second Jimin arrived lol?? What happened? I think we'll probably get a few more details about how it all came together once it's officially announced/released.

Also I’m surprised JK would randomly take off the weekend after his solo debut to film a mini camping vacation with JM! That’s honestly really cute tbh, in a very ot7 way, not sure how else to describe it. I wonder if we’ll get to see any of JKs feelings about the positive response towards Seven too since it seems like he was with Jimin when it was all coming out. It must have been pretty emotional for him! Would love to see his reaction to some of those early numbers and hype.

I figured we were getting some sort of mini BV but it’s interesting to learn that it really was a Jikook only project, and also something that they had talked about wanting to do in the past. I wonder why JM thought it would be fun to film a mini vacation with JK specifically! Honestly I think they always have so much fun together and the best chemistry, so I’m really excited. I don't think we've really gotten anything else like this in CH2 so far either? Like this is pretty unique content! I'm curious to see if we'll get more secretly filmed variety content from various members sometime next year. On a similar note, I would love to see vmin together on Running Man for a similar reason. I think it would be really fun, chaotic and funny to be able to see their dynamic on a variety show setting without the other members around.

Also think it’s sooooooo funny that Jikook were so secretive about this project only for Yoongi to casually announce it for no real reason on Suchwita lmao. So anticlimactic. Like all that secrecy and for what? JK’s half a second deer in the headlights expression when Yoongi brought it up was funny and cute too.

[curio-queries]

FRI(END)S : THE SONG

This post is part of a series of my thoughts on this release. It's time to finally get these out of drafts and posted before Hobi's release. Here are links to the other posts:

QUICKCOMBO: Continuation

QUICKCOMBO: Termination

The Song (this post)

The Music Video

The Promo

First, if you haven't heard the song yet, please give it a listen and make your own impressions.

Initial Thoughts

The night this was released, I was having some sudden internet issues and was slightly panicking about being able to work the next day so I was admittedly a little stressed by the time I got to listen even though I stayed up specifically for it.

Usually I would listen to it first on Spotify before watching the music video but I was able to get the mv to load first for some reason. My first impression on the song itself was actually a little bit of confusion as to how long the track actually would be given all the 'non-song' space in the mv.

When I did finally get Spotify to work, I definitely thought it was too short but I was so excited that I was vibing with it as much as I did. V's solo work is very hit or miss for me, with most of LayoVer being a miss. I don't think the album was bad, I just had a hard time with it since none of the tracks really appeal to me. But Fri(end)s? I liked on the first few listens. Which is kinda funny because I was actually wondering pretty early on if Fri(end)s would work as part of LayoVer...more on that later in this post.

I still think the song is too short. I realize that's the trend these days as it's more of a marketing tactic but that doesn't mean I have to like the trend. Especially with the extremely clear folding of the song into two parts, it's pretty obvious to even some casual listeners that there's something missing. Not enough to make it a bad song but it just feels slightly unfinished.

Performance

If you haven't already watched the Live Film, I highly recommend it.

I know it's kinda a flex in music communities to value live versions over studio releases but I rarely fall into that camp. (I honestly think it has something to do with a sensory issue I have and extra noise that is often present in such recordings...anyway back to V). This performance is so great! It perfectly embodies both Tae's personality and the energy needed for a song like this. I honestly just felt so good listening to him sing this because he did it in the exact same way I do when I sing along to music; adding extra little rifs and bits just for the fun of it and avoiding the typical notes that all of the members leave out of most performances.

I'm not qualified to comment on the musical technique needed for this song but there are definitely some fun challenges that make for a satisfying singalong once you've nailed them!

LayoVer

If you haven't listened to the complete album in a while, here's a link. Always a good idea to give an album a complete top-to-bottom listen every once in a while, especially this one with how Tae agonized over track sequence of his solo work as mentioned during Festa 2022.

So, if you just list the key words of the lyrical themes and musical elements of both Fri(end)s and LayoVer, you'd think they'd be an easy match but the more I investigated, the less I think so.

First, I'm not really a music researcher when it comes to credits or following specific contributors but from what I can tell, there weren't any of the same individuals listed between the two projects except Tae himself. Which honestly surprised me.

Just going off of memory, I thought it'd fit in smoothly either before or after Slow Dancing but after trying it out, it just doesn't land for me. It absolutely deserves to be its own single and I'd initially wondered if it had been ripped out of the album as the track to tide us over during this chunk of ms but I really don't feel that way at all.

It honestly reminds me a little of how JK released 3D as a separate track. That song (as much as I don't love it) does stand on its own without the support of an album. Maybe Fri(end)s was one of the other songs Tae found during his search for LayoVer but that team didn't have enough material for a cohesive album? He didn't want to lose it so kept it as a single to release later.

I want you all to know that I wrote the above before seeing this video...thanks for proving me right V!! 😆

More thoughts on some of the meaning(s) of the song in my mv post!

(Sidenote, if you haven't seen the full set of the gif at the top of this post, I highly recommend checking it out. It's gorgeous! Absolutely astonishing work @kimtaegis 😍)

[jules-has-notes]

2020 VoicePlay spring roundup — trying times and trying new things

The world faced many sudden, dramatic changes in early 2020, and VoicePlay was no exception. The entertainment industry as a whole was hit hard when live performances and film sets were shut down all at once.

Being the adaptable folks they are, the VP guys quickly shifted their production process. They actually had a bit of an advantage, since they already recorded most of their vocals in their home studios. The logistics of filming videos proved trickier, but they implemented their vast creativity to find ways to keep bringing the fun.

.

From a distance

Once the guys had sorted out some of their plans for the immediate future, they decided to try a livestreamed hangout on YouTube. The technical aspects were a little rough, but it was nice to see them in a casual setting until they could finish producing new music.

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Virtual adventure

The next day brought the release of two very different collaborations. One was a slow jam about biomes and their inhabitants from JamSchooled featuring J.None. The other was Thomas Sanders's latest production with PattyCake, which combined his flair for the melodramatic with their ability to create big fantastical visuals.

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Getting homey

Like many of us, the Jacobsons leaned into the domesticity of being home so much more than normal. Eli served as Ashley's cinematographer for a baking video on her Instagram. She has recently removed it, but the end results look tasty.

Since the official government guidance allowed people to designate small groups ("bubbles") for limited in-person contact, the Steins were able to have uncle Tony over for their annual Passover seder as usual.

.

After the VoicePlay livestream went passably well, Geoff decided to host one on his solo channel during Easter weekend. The practice he'd gotten with the other guys made it go a little smoother.

Meanwhile, Earl continued his DIY grooming to get his facial hair under control for the impending Florida summer weather.

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Play on

The next weekend brought the release of J.None's latest collaboration, a track called "Right Here" by Italian musician Lorjs. He also put a couple live clips of other songs on his Instagram, one with an old friend from high school.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by J.None 🧈🎶 🎙📝🎬🎹🎸📽🤣 (@itsjnone)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by J.None 🧈🎶 🎙📝🎬🎹🎸📽🤣 (@itsjnone)

.

VoicePlay did figure out a way to make new videos together fairly quickly, because it was a method they already had in their repertoire. Using the compositing they'd honed during their initial PartWork run, they created a version of disco classic "I Will Survive" that bolsters the spirit.

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Talk to me

A commenter in Geoff's Chaturday stream had mentioned that Matt Fouch from the Bass Singing Central podcast was interested in an interview with him, and it came together in short order.

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Knowing how loyal and passionate PattyCake's fans are, Layne and Tony gave them a quick update on the logistics of their production schedule and a little glimpse into their plans for the foreseeable future.

The first of those more grown-up projects was a collaboration with their friend Erin Anderson, showcasing some of the ways people were dealing with the stress of the pandemic.

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By the beginning of May, even sound guy Paul Kaleka got a little nostalgic about being on the road with VoicePlay, despite their frequent teasing of him.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Paul Henri (@paulhenrimusic)

"Being stuck at home in the studio is great and all, but I’m missing my mobile office with VoicePlay."

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Springtime spookiness

Geoff used some of his free time to record another short story narration. He took another dip into Poe's body (Heh.) of work for this classic tale of frustration at a bad employer taken to horrific extremes.

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Since developing new merchandise doesn't require face-to-face meetings, VoicePlay rolled out a cute new logo pin, and provided a suggestion for how to display your fannish enjoyment.

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Everybody now!

VoicePlay have always enjoyed being part of the greater performance community and giving back whenever they can. So when they decided to create a new video as a fundraiser for the MusiCares charitable organization, they invited a whole slew of friends from across the country to join in. Layne did a masterful job arranging and combining everyone's vocals, and the result is absolutely joyous.

It also raised the question most hardcore VP fans have at some point: "Wait, he was part of the group, too?!"

[They might not want to provide a full backstory, but Huldra Draco has made a nice overview video of their membership history. And yes, I have a very long post on the topic in my drafts that will be published at some point.]

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The PattyCake guys displayed some more ingenuity, too. Since it wasn't feasible to gather their cast members at the studio for the time being, Layne and Tony revisited their trio of adoptive mothers from the year before. They spiced things up by remixing both the song itself and the video footage.

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Tales from the road

The next weekend, VoicePlay premiered another take on a public chat stream in the form of "True VoicePlay Stories". They shared a memory from their travels that is really only funny in hindsight because nothing went catastrophically wrong. (Be careful not to mix up your medication, folks.) It's a fun glimpse into the realities of being touring musicians, and also shows that VoicePlay's storytelling prowess doesn't necessarily require music.

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Commemorations of love

Layne, Cyndi, and the girls continued their family tradition of celebrating Dori's birthday with a family music video for the fourth year in a row. This time, they got their villainy on, singing "Evil Like Me" from The Descendants.

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In the middle of June, Earl marked the fourth anniversary of the tragic losses at the Pulse nightclub shooting. In the midst of another ongoing traumatic event, the memories of the friends he had lost on that night felt particularly poignant.

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The guys were pretty quiet on social media for the rest of the month while big changes happened behind the scenes, but all would be revealed soon enough.

[le-trash-prince]

Only Friends (But It’s a Jazz Musical)

Here is the 100% self-indulgent project that I have been working on since the series started! This began when I realized I was adding a lot of jazz songs to my regular OF playlist that didn't flow with the vibe of the other songs, so I separated them and realized how much they really worked on their own. I narrowed this down to a selection of ~40 tracks to just 11 to make it album-sized.

I think, despite the fact that these songs aren't modern at all, they fit the series really well. As musical theatre is wont to be, though, this would be very anachronistic—not tied to a particular place or point in time, and with a range of music genres utilized. It's the type of thing where producers would say "Who cares? It's Broadway!" while critics write scathing reviews on how musical theatre is the lowest form of art.

Mostly it's just meant for fun. 😊 Listen on YT

Tracklist + Scene Breakdown

I’m Gonna Live Till I Die

(YT / lyrics) The opening number. The scene at the bar where we meet the cast. I love the long opening vocal note to this song and can picture each of the four main friends standing under a solo spotlight as the music builds, until the beat drops and the curtain parts and the stage bursts into life. The instrumental break in the middle would be lengthened in order to give Mew a chance to introduce the cast to the audience.

Something’s Gotta Give

(YT / lyrics) This is the scene of Top hitting on Mew during trivia night. The irresistible force (haha) meets an immovable object. The line "something's gotta give, something's gotta give, something's gotta give" would easily be a recurring leitmotif sung by the chorus ensemble in the background of some of TopMew's tense moments and arguments.

You Go to My Head

(YT / lyrics) This is the SandRay theme of the show. Ray starts off singing this to Sand when they're at Ray's house that first time. The direct comparison to alcohol shows that Sand is Ray's new fixation. An instrumental variation of this would play during most of their scenes, with a refrain sung by Sand later in the show ("Still I say to myself, get ahold of yourself")

I Put a Spell on You

(YT / lyrics) Nick sings this while Boston seduces Top—through dance of course. This number is about both Boston coercing Top ("I put a spell on you") and Nick’s possessiveness over Boston ("because you're mine").

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

(YT / lyrics) Mew sings this about Top's betrayal. This was about how blind he was at the beginning, and the song culminates in Mew setting Top's drawing on fire.

I’ll Be Glad When You’re Dead (You Rascal You)

(YT / lyrics) Both of the pool fights are combined in this scene, Mew going after Boston and Ray going after Top. It’s a little physically comical with lots of people chasing each other back and forth across the stage, but Mew and Ray are absolutely out for blood.

If I Didn’t Care

(YT / lyrics) Sand is singing this onstage at club YOLO while all the boys try to process their unresolved feelings for each other. Lots of longing glances and loaded looks across the room.

I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire

(YT / lyrics) This is Boeing's "I'm too hot for you to blame me for the chaos I bring and I'm going to set Top's life on fire" song. I absolutely envision this as a casual tap dance number, and he does the entire thing with his hands in his pockets and a shit-eating grin on his face.

If That Ain't Love

(YT / lyrics) This one is on Sand's shuffle playlist in Ep 12, but I thought it really fit for a Boston solo! And I wasn't gonna not include the only jazz vocal playlist in the series. This is Boston trying to convince Nick that he loves him, even though Boston has no experience with romantic love.

You Always Hurt the One You Love

(YT / lyrics) All of the boys are singing this song. Hurt people hurt people. Top, Ray, and Boston are singing together on one side of the stage, with Mew, Sand, and Nick on the other, with all three pairs meeting in the middle and clasping hands at the end. (circa ep 10/11)

My Way

(YT / lyrics) This is the closing number and a duet between Mew and Boston on their final meeting. For a musical theater adaptation, compared to the original series, there's going to be more of a bang than a whimper at the end of this friendship, with both of them standing proud about who they are, faults and all. People were hurt, crimes were committed, questions remained unanswered, but Only Friends did it in a way no one else has.

I hope y'all can give this a listen because I really enjoyed working on it. Doing a more theme-specific playlist was new for me, since I usually just throw anything and everything into my playlists, so I'd definitely like to try something similar with another fandom in the future. I hope y’all enjoy 😊

[miloscat]

[Review] Brawlout (PS4)

A competent Smash Bros. clone.

After finally clearing Dead Cells and Hyper Light Drifter from my backlog, I could tackle this, to which the two had contributed guest characters. It's a platform fighter in the vein of Nintendo's Smash Bros., made by a Romanian indie studio as their first big project. From that perspective it's impressive how solid it is, but it struggles to escape the shadow of its more established source.

Brawlout sells itself as for the hardcores as well as being accessible to newcomers, but to me its pace calls to mind competitive Melee's fast and technical playstyle. The thing is... I managed to play this locally with others familiar with Smash a couple of times, but we didn't put in the time to get used to its quirks and decided to return to the big dog instead. This is the problem when trying to compete with something so monolithic.

Those quirks are trying to carve out an identity: the control scheme is streamlined to "focus on aggressive mechanics", by removing shields and grabs from the standard Smash Bros. set. One innovation was a jab-to-special combo which I liked. There's also a rage meter that lets you interrupt opponents or your own momentum when launched, and enter a desperation mode. It's a nice idea but using special moves actually takes rage away from you, which disincentivises employing the novel mechanic or half your useful moves. The movement also feels squirrelly in a way I'm finding difficult to describe, but I did get more used to it the more I played.

I'm approaching Brawlout now not for its technical mechanics but for its indie crossover appeal as a solo casual. Slap City, for example, managed to shine in this regard, but for Brawlout the focus is not on that aspect. There's no items, only a handful of fairly flat stages, and a mere ten characters (not helping the perception that it's aping top-level Melee with its restrictive meta). OK, technically there's 25 but many are essentially skins of the six OCs with some tweaks.

These six characters are fun anthropomorphic animals with some oddnesses in their designs, like the cat lady lacking ears and a tail, not to mention that there's only one lady in the entire cast (plus Laylee). The guest characters also make the other characters look oddly small for some reason. These four guest characters were fun to play as, especially now that I've played Yooka-Laylee, Guacamelee, Dead Cells, and Hyper Light Drifter. They're all faithfully presented (aside from it feeling weird to have Drifter with spoken [text] dialogue and in 3D), but I enjoyed Yooka and Laylee most, and Juan fits like a glove with some tweaks to suit his home playstyle. Only two of them got stages, strangely, with HLD and GM left out. The other point I'll make is that some specific moves seem lifted more or less right out of Smash; I don't have a problem with this per se, it's just the game being obvious about its inspiration... also it's funny to see a hedgehog doing a Sheik motion, etc.

For solo play the best option is the arcade mode, a straightlaced series of battles. It at least has some fun back-and-forth quips before each match, and each character has an ending (although the variant characters don't have unique endings or dialogue). The other main mode has more shake-ups and bonus stages like Smash's Classic mode, but without selectable difficulty or continues I couldn't get past more than a dozen stages, finding myself hard-walled at a boss each time. An in-game store provides some meta-progression in the form of randomly unlocked character skins and such, but that didn't prove an effective motivator for me to grind these lacklustre solo modes.

Ultimately I didn't get a huge amount out of Brawlout. As a platform fighter it's certainly competent, but that's all it is, and it needed to be more. It's so hard to compete with Smash especially with Ultimate's level of polish and its IP access (to be fair, this originally released a full year and a half before Ultimate so was competing with the more mediocre For on a previous generation's consoles). Leaning more into the fun crossover aspect and having more for a casual or solo player to do would have gone a long way for me with this, but those things seem like afterthoughts here, and even the worldbuilding for the original characters needed more room to breathe. But for what it's worth, I was here for the continuity of the guest characters and they did well with that in what they did implement; there's some top-shelf Laylee snark in here!

[axethrowingnearme]

Top 5 Places for Ax Throwing Near Me You Need to Try

In recent years, ax throwing has transformed from a rugged backyard pastime into a popular indoor recreational activity. Whether you're looking to blow off steam after a long week, plan a unique date night, or organize a memorable team-building event, ax throwing offers a perfect blend of excitement, focus, and just the right amount of adrenaline.

As more venues open up around the country, you might find yourself wondering, "Where can I find the best ax throwing near me?" Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this guide will introduce you to the top 5 places for axe throwing near you that are absolutely worth visiting. Each one stands out for its unique atmosphere, expert coaching, and dedication to providing a safe and thrilling experience.

1. Timber Warriors Axe Throwing Co.

If you're looking for a place that combines rustic charm with a top-tier ax throwing experience, Timber Warriors Axe Throwing Co. should be at the top of your list. Known for its cozy lodge ambiance and friendly staff, Timber Warriors makes even first-time throwers feel like seasoned lumberjacks.

Why It’s a Must-Try:

Trained Coaches: Whether you've never touched an axe before or you're trying to refine your skills, Timber Warriors provides expert guidance that ensures you're hitting bullseyes in no time.

Group Packages: Great for birthdays, bachelor parties, and team events.

Safety First: With clear instructions and controlled environments, it's one of the safest venues for axe throwing near me.

The environment is casual yet competitive. You’ll find themed lanes, scoreboard systems, and even weekly tournaments if you're looking to take your skills to the next level.

2. The Axe Den

Looking for something a little more urban and edgy? The Axe Den brings a modern twist to this ancient skill. With neon lights, music pumping through the speakers, and an upbeat vibe, it’s perfect for those who want to combine nightlife energy with recreational fun.

What Sets It Apart:

Digital Targets: Forget traditional wooden targets—The Axe Den uses projected targets with different game modes for added variety.

Drink & Throw: Their on-site bar means you can enjoy craft beers or cocktails while you throw (responsibly, of course).

Walk-Ins Welcome: Planning last-minute fun? No problem.

When searching for “axe throwing near me” that includes a vibrant social atmosphere, The Axe Den should definitely be on your radar.

3. Bullseye Barn

For those who appreciate a more traditional ax throwing experience, Bullseye Barn offers authenticity and charm in spades. This place is all about the roots of the sport—wooden interiors, hand-crafted axes, and competitive spirit.

Highlights:

Family-Friendly Hours: Great for kids over 10 and family outings.

League Play: Compete with locals in seasonal leagues and sharpen your skills week by week.

Custom Targets: From zombies to pumpkins, the targets change with the seasons for extra fun.

Bullseye Barn is one of the most beloved options when people search for “ax throwing near me,” thanks to its down-to-earth vibe and skilled coaches. If you love the idea of perfecting your aim in a cabin-style setting, this is the place for you.

4. Urban Axes

Urban Axes has locations in many major cities, and for good reason. They’ve mastered the balance of professional competition and casual fun. Their urban settings are convenient and accessible, especially if you're looking for “axe throwing near me” that doesn't require a long drive out of town.

Why You’ll Love It:

National Axe Throwing League Affiliation: Great for those who want to take things seriously.

Top-Notch Facilities: Clean, modern, and well-maintained.

BYOB Options: Some locations allow you to bring your own beverages.

This venue is ideal for group outings or even solo visits if you’re really looking to hone your skills. The vibe is inclusive and welcoming, and there’s always a coach nearby to help refine your technique.

5. The Hatchet House

For a truly immersive experience, The Hatchet House takes ax throwing to a whole new level. It’s more than just a venue—it’s an adventure.

What Makes It Unique:

Escape Room Add-On: Combine axe throwing with escape room challenges for a full evening of fun.

Themed Lanes: Whether you’re a Viking at heart or a Wild West gunslinger, there’s a lane to match.

Private Booking Options: Rent an entire lane or room for your party.

When friends search together for “ax throwing near me” or “axe throwing near me,” The Hatchet House is often the standout. It’s especially popular for birthday parties, corporate events, and date nights that demand something more exciting than dinner and a movie.

Choosing the Right Axe Throwing Experience

Not all axe throwing venues are created equal. The right one for you will depend on your goals, preferences, and who you plan to bring along. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the perfect location:

1. Skill Level

Are you new to axe throwing or a seasoned pro? Some places cater more to first-timers with hands-on coaching, while others host competitive leagues for experienced throwers.

2. Group Size

Some venues specialize in private events and large group bookings, while others may be better suited for walk-ins and small gatherings.

3. Vibe

Do you want a cozy, rustic cabin feel? Or are you looking for something more modern and lively with music and drinks?

4. Location

Of course, convenience matters. Searching for “axe throwing near me” ensures you're looking at nearby options, but it’s also worth checking if they offer parking, public transit access, and other amenities.

5. Extras

From drink services and food to digital targets and themed events, each venue offers something unique. Think about what would make your experience truly unforgettable.

The Rise of Axe Throwing Culture

Why is axe throwing suddenly everywhere? There’s something primal and satisfying about it. It combines the simplicity of darts with the physicality of bowling and the thrill of archery. In a world full of digital distractions, ax throwing gives us a chance to connect with something tactile and real.

And it’s not just a solo activity—it's a communal one. Teams bond over friendly competitions. Friends laugh over near-misses. Families create new memories. It’s an activity that spans generations and interests.

Thanks to the growing demand, you can now type “ax throwing near me” or “axe throwing near me” into any search engine and be met with a variety of options tailored to your preferences.

Tips for First-Time Axe Throwers

If you’ve never thrown an axe before, don’t worry—it’s easier than it looks, and most places are very beginner-friendly. Here are a few quick tips to help you get started:

Wear Closed-Toe Shoes: Safety first.

Use Two Hands to Start: A two-handed throw offers more control for beginners.

Focus on Form, Not Power: Accuracy comes from technique, not strength.

Listen to the Coach: They’re there to help you succeed.

Relax and Have Fun: Remember, it’s about enjoyment—not perfection.

Once you've tried it, you may find yourself becoming a regular. Many venues offer memberships or leagues if you’re interested in joining a community of axe-throwing enthusiasts.

Why Axe Throwing Is More Than Just a Trend

Axe throwing isn't just the latest Instagram-worthy activity. While it’s grown in popularity over the last few years, its roots are much deeper. It taps into something primal—something that resonates with our sense of challenge, strength, and precision. In fact, many people who initially go looking for “axe throwing near me” out of curiosity end up making it a regular pastime.

A Therapeutic Release

Believe it or not, axe throwing can be incredibly therapeutic. In a world where so many daily routines are digital or sedentary, the physical act of hurling an axe at a wooden target is cathartic. It demands your attention and body coordination. It forces you to focus, breathe, and execute—a perfect break from the hustle and noise of modern life.

A Workout in Disguise

Throwing an axe may look effortless, but it engages your whole body. Your shoulders, arms, core, and even your legs play a role in the perfect throw. After a session at an “ax throwing near me” location, many first-timers are surprised at how sore they are the next day—but in the best way possible.

A Mental Game

Axe throwing isn’t just physical—it’s deeply mental. Just like archery or darts, success depends on concentration, control, and rhythm. It’s a repetitive skill that rewards patience and improvement. Many venues even track scores so you can measure your progress over time. It becomes a game of beating your personal best as much as it is about hitting the target.

Community and Culture

What truly sets axe throwing apart is the community that comes with it. When you look up “axe throwing near me,” you’re not just finding a business—you’re tapping into a network of passionate, welcoming individuals who share a love for the sport.

The Rise of Axe Leagues

One of the biggest developments in recent years is the creation of formal axe throwing leagues. Participants compete in weekly matches, track their scores, and improve their skills over time. Whether it's through the World Axe Throwing League (WATL) or local groups, these leagues have built a culture of healthy competition and camaraderie.

If you're someone who enjoys regular social activities, finding a venue that offers league nights could be your ticket to new friendships and a structured way to sharpen your abilities.

Events and Themed Nights

Axe throwing venues often host themed nights—think Viking-themed competitions, glow-in-the-dark lanes, or costume contests. Some places even have live music, trivia nights, or food trucks. When you’re searching for “ax throwing near me,” don’t forget to check the event calendar. You might find a theme night that takes your experience to the next level.

Planning the Perfect Axe Throwing Outing

Once you’ve chosen one of the top “axe throwing near me” venues, it’s time to plan your visit. Here’s how to make sure your outing is a hit—pun intended.

1. Pick the Right Group

Axe throwing works for all sorts of occasions—date nights, family outings, corporate events, birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just a fun Friday evening. The best groups are those who are open to trying new things and ready to cheer each other on.

2. Book in Advance

While many places allow walk-ins, the top-rated spots for ax throwing near me can fill up fast—especially on weekends. Booking your lane in advance ensures you won’t be waiting around or disappointed upon arrival.

3. Dress Comfortably

As mentioned earlier, closed-toe shoes are a must. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothes that give you full range of motion. You’ll be moving your arms, shoulders, and torso quite a bit, so avoid anything too tight or restrictive.

4. Understand the Rules

When you arrive, you’ll typically receive a safety briefing and a short tutorial. Pay close attention. Each venue might have its own variations on rules, but the basics are usually the same—one person throws at a time, retrieve your axe only when it's safe, and never cross the throwing line without being cleared to do so.

5. Try the Games

Most axe throwing locations offer various games beyond just aiming for the bullseye. You might compete in “21,” “Around the World,” or other scoring formats. These mini-games keep things exciting and add a layer of strategy to your session.

Safety: What You Should Know

Safety is the number one priority at any reputable axe throwing facility. You may have concerns about tossing sharp objects, but with proper coaching and controlled environments, it’s actually a very safe sport.

Safety Measures Include:

Barrier-protected Lanes: Each lane is enclosed to prevent axes from straying into other areas.

Controlled Throwing Zones: Only one person is allowed in the lane at a time.

Supervised Sessions: Coaches or staff monitor the area to ensure rules are followed.

Alcohol Rules: Most venues either restrict alcohol or enforce a strict limit to ensure no one throws under the influence.

When searching for “ax throwing near me,” always look for venues that emphasize safety and professionalism.

Family-Friendly Options

You might be surprised to learn that axe throwing can be a great family activity. Many venues allow younger throwers—typically 10 or older—with supervision. Some even offer foam axes or rubber versions for the youngest guests. It’s a unique alternative to mini-golf or arcade trips, and it teaches coordination, responsibility, and confidence.

If you're organizing a family outing and typing in “axe throwing near me,” check each venue’s age restrictions and kid-friendly options. Some may also offer birthday party packages for younger throwers.

Axe Throwing for Corporate Events

Forget trust falls and awkward icebreakers. Axe throwing is one of the most effective and enjoyable corporate team-building activities out there. It encourages teamwork, communication, and a bit of friendly competition.

Many venues offer special packages for corporate groups, including private rooms, catering, and dedicated instructors. When searching for “ax throwing near me” for your next company event, make sure to ask about:

Group rates

Tournament formats

Custom branding opportunities

Catering or drink packages

Your team will appreciate an experience that’s interactive, fun, and far from ordinary.

Beyond the Axe: Other Activities Offered

While the primary draw is, of course, axe throwing, many of these venues offer a lot more. You’ll find everything from escape rooms and arcade games to pool tables and live music. This adds variety to your outing and can turn a one-hour activity into an entire evening of fun.

Popular Add-Ons at Axe Venues:

Escape rooms

Food and drink

Live music

Karaoke

Arcade and board games

So when you're narrowing down your list of “axe throwing near me” locations, consider what extras might appeal to your group.

Axe Throwing at Home?

If you're obsessed with the sport and want to take it to the next level, you might consider creating a backyard throwing setup. That said, it’s important to understand that this comes with significant responsibility and safety considerations.

You’ll need:

A safe, enclosed area

High-quality throwing axes

A thick wooden target (typically end-grain wood)

A clear safety perimeter

Proper insurance (if you’re planning to host guests)

But for most people, visiting a professional “ax throwing near me” venue remains the best option. It’s safer, requires less setup, and gives you the social atmosphere that makes the sport so engaging.

Axe Throwing Etiquette

Like any sport or recreational activity, axe throwing comes with its own unwritten rules of behavior. Following good etiquette makes the experience better for everyone.

Axe Throwing Do’s:

Do cheer others on—especially first-timers.

Do follow your coach’s instructions.

Do take turns patiently.

Do respect the rules and safety zones.

Axe Throwing Don’ts:

Don’t throw when someone is near the target.

Don’t bring your own axe without permission.

Don’t throw under the influence of alcohol.

Don’t hog the lane—share the time evenly with your group.

Being respectful and considerate makes you a welcome guest at any venue offering axe throwing near me.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit

Whether you're exploring it as a hobby, planning a unique outing, or just looking to try something new, axe throwing is more than just a passing trend. It’s a thrilling, accessible, and rewarding activity that continues to grow in popularity for a reason.

As you begin your search for the perfect “ax throwing near me” experience, remember:

Every venue has its own vibe—find one that matches your group’s energy.

Safety and coaching matter, especially for beginners.

Games, leagues, and social extras can elevate your experience.

It’s about more than just hitting the bullseye—it’s about fun, focus, and forming connections.

[pompadourpink]

Hi mom, I’m currently working through some big decisions. Option A will put me in the room where it happens, but Option B has a reputation that opens doors. Essentially, I’m looking at Option A, which is so perfect save for it being… let’s say 15th/200, but Option B is number one, despite being all around less expansive. I’ll walk away with twice as much: three accolades! One is a literal title! Still, I need to think about the « after. » In professional life… what’s going to matter, in the end? How do you weigh that?

Hi dear,

I am understanding that option A is what you want but less prestigious and option B is a bit broader but more prestigious.

The answer lies within: if you are a hyper-specialised genius, you can afford option A. B is preferable if you have relatively common skills and are not attached to a distinct field/area of expertise/location. Have a vague idea of what you prefer (inside/outside, solo/teamwork, remote/in-person, office/client-facing, etc.) and could do short/mid-term and get going. If you ever take an abrupt turn, find a way to sell it as a good idea and bounce.

Office politics are how you climb the ladder. Most job offers never get published - companies will hire friends, ex-collaborators, and old classmates (ie future you). If you are Sheldon Cooper or Jennifer Gates, you will achieve a brilliant career because people will want a piece of your cake. If you come out of nowhere, reputation will be your shiniest asset.

If you spent your last job working until 2am every night but no one befriended you, you didn't go to events, the manager didn't like you, you never got an award, you were the black sheep... the recruiter will never know about the overtime (or think you're pathetic because it means you don't get it and if you get hired you will be the overachiever who gets promised things until they burn and leave). Charity work doesn't pay.

But if you conducted a successful project, went to an optional conference and posted a group selfie on Linkedin, never made your boss feel insecure, stayed in your lane... once you look for a new job, the recruiter will google you, read your CV, call your supervisor, and think they found the golden goose. Then, find something to bond over, smash the interview and get the job (with a raise).

It's annoying and capitalistic but accepting to dance truly is the way. The bootlicking colleague who never liked your fun hair and becomes your boss will make you pay for your audacity, but the ex-supervisor you helped look good by making them think your idea was theirs will introduce you to his investor buddy.

Skills and experience will not matter if people don't like you. My advice: select option B, make your Google results look good, dress business casual, keep acquiring skills, be social, make quality connections, win through excellence and humility, and don't talk too much. Dance your way to your preferred field, status, city..., get what you want and don't let anyone drag you down (regardless of how you feel about the choreography). You're not betraying yourself, you're ensuring a comfortable future (and you can still think punk while wearing fancy trousers).

I wish I had a different answer, but unless you miraculously grow 100 IQ points or somehow become a prosperous niche entrepreneur (which might be a goal if you are ND, but you can't show up empty-handed), I cannot see one.

Much love,

Mum

[bestartproject]

Embrace Your Creativity at The Paint Garden: Toronto’s Premier Paint Nite Destination

Toronto, Ontario, is a city that thrives on culture, creativity, and community. Amidst its bustling urban landscape, there’s a growing trend that’s allowing residents and visitors alike to indulge their artistic sides while enjoying an evening out. Enter Paint Nite events—a unique blend of socializing, sipping, and creating. At The Paint Garden, we invite you to step into a world of color and fun with our exciting Paint Nite experiences in Toronto. Whether you're looking to unwind after a busy day or discover a new hobby, our paint workshops and painting classes in Toronto provide the perfect outlet for your creativity.

Why Paint Nite in Toronto Is So Special

In a city that is constantly buzzing with activity, it can be difficult to find an activity that combines relaxation, entertainment, and creativity all in one. Paint Nite events at The Paint Garden offer exactly that. Our events bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to create art in a fun, lighthearted environment. It's the ultimate way to bond with friends, meet new people, or simply enjoy a solo creative outing.

A typical Paint Nite at The Paint Garden includes painting a pre-selected design step by step, all while sipping on a favorite drink. Our talented instructors guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring that even first-time painters can confidently follow along. Whether you're an expert artist or a complete beginner, our Paint Nites allow you to express yourself in a relaxed, no-pressure setting.

Paint and Sip: A Perfect Night Out in Toronto

Toronto's Paint and Sip events have become an iconic way to spend an evening. At The Paint Garden, we elevate this popular activity by creating a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy a drink while expressing your artistic side. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, prefer a cold beer, or enjoy a creative mocktail, there's a drink to pair with every artistic endeavor.

Each Paint and Sip event at The Paint Garden is designed for you to unwind and have fun. The laid-back nature of the event allows for plenty of time to chat with friends, laugh, and enjoy the experience. Plus, our step-by-step painting instructions make it easy for everyone, regardless of skill level, to complete a stunning piece of art.

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[delicateperspective]

The End of an Era — And The Start of the Next

As expected, the dartboard saga came to a conclusion yesterday — and in a big way.

I’ve got a ton of messages waiting on this post, and honestly, I’m still getting my thoughts together. So this might be a little rough around the edges. But here’s one thing I know for sure:

If you’re a solo Louie who doesn’t believe in Larry — This account was not made for you.

Whether it’s some kind of insider, the guys themselves, a fan, or something else entirely, The Observer is intrinsically linked to the so-called “conspiracy.” You don’t drop this many references to Home, Walls, doors, ghosts, fish bowls, 28, 369, and coded lyrics by accident.

If you were hoping this ended in LT3, HS4, AFHF or anything business-related? There will need to be a major narrative shift for that to be the case.

As it stands, the account is too loud. Too coded. Too connected to both of them — and to each other — for this to fit into their current public image.

On March 28th 2025:

At 12:00 PM

Day 20: 12:00 The sun has risen on the final day of my journey home, but there’s no need to worry. Arrival isn't the end of our journey together, but rather a new door creaking open. I'll see you there. — The Observer

"A new door creaking open" This is a heavy one. Let’s talk about doors: March 25th: Zayn’s Mexico concert featured a door creaking open — a silhouette of himself behind it right before singing Night Changes for the first time in 10 years. Harry’s “You Are Home” campaign had every image appearing behind a cracked door. Louis' “Walls” video: A mysterious door in the desert has often been speculated to be symbolic of coming out. Harry’s first promo for his solo debut in 2017? A door opens. Harry’s House album cover had a door that matches Louis' real-life bedroom door.

A previous Observer tweet mentioned "no doors to guide" — maybe referencing how You Are Home gave us clues. This time? We’re stepping through without a guide.

Profile picture updates to a white 20.

At 8:20 PM

When the walls fall and the dust settles, voices whisper a message from the future: “It’s time. Keep faith. Let life in.” — The Observer

“Walls fall” → Louis’ Walls album and emotional barriers

“The future” → Faith in the Future

“Let life in” → Direct callback to Louis’ Oct 6, 2024 tweet:

"Only been off tour 2 minutes. The next record is going to be my best yet but need chance to let life in first."

We are being told — it’s time. More on this in the final thoughs.

The profile picture updates to a fully rendered dartboard — shading and all.

At 10:00 PM

Home? — An Observer

This is An Observer speaking — not The Observer.

At this time, the profile picture updates to a dart in the Triple 20 position — The exact same position as Louis' original dartboard post from January 2025.

At 10:10 PM:

Home. — The Observer

They are talking to each other. This is The Observer responding directly to An Observer.

Not a question anymore. Not a maybe. It’s a statement. A declaration.

And the profile picture updates to a dart in the bullseye — The exact same dartboard style as the Pleasing post.

At 10:23 PM (Five minuites after I told @tonix3 they were safe to take a shower and ended up very, very wrong):

Come in. Rest. It’s been a long journey. Tomorrow we begin anew. — The Observer

This is it. The final tweet of the countdown.

Not only is The Observer home — We are invited in.

And tomorrow? We begin again.

Final Thoughts

I started tracking The Observer just in case it turned out to be LT3 promo. Maybe a clever rollout, maybe a metaphor-heavy launch into something career-related. I thought it would be fun to follow, nothing more.

But it’s become more and more clear that this isn’t just about Louis. And it’s definitely not just about a new project.

This is connected to Larry—deeply, deliberately, and unapologetically. Whether it’s a fan, a friend, someone on the inside, or somehow something more, this account was not made for casual fans. It wasn’t made for solo Louies. It wasn’t made for anyone who believes this was just a band that broke up and went their separate ways.

And you know what? I didn’t think that was a bad thing.

Yes, we’re all tired of scams and fake insiders. We’ve been burned before. But The Observer has never claimed to be one of the boys. It’s not pretending to be Louis or Harry. It didn’t slide into DMs or leak personal info. It just… told a story. And it told it well.

The tweets were thoughtful. The visuals were layered. The references were researched and often educational. It connected dots across time, music, history, literature, and queerness in a way that made us think—made us remember. It was fun. It was emotional. And now it’s something more.

Because The Observer made a promise:

“It’s time.”

For a fandom that has waited 15 years, hoping for someday, that’s not a small thing to say. That’s not poetic. That’s heavy.

We’ve been through Belfast. Bullshit. Walls. The Syco escape. We’ve read into every silence and every lyric. We’ve hoped that this time was the time. And every time, we’ve been wrong.

So when someone says “It’s time,” it better mean something. Because if it doesn’t, this could be cruel. Hope is a powerful thing—but it cuts deep when it goes unfulfilled.

That said, we may never find out who’s behind this account. And honestly? That might be what makes it work.

Just like RBB/SBB, people have tried to debunk it again and again. They’ve said it’s not PR, not management, not friends. But they’ve never been able to prove it wasn’t Harry or Louis either. That’s what made it powerful. It lived in the in-between. It existed in that quiet, charged space where truth and metaphor blur.

If we never find out who ran The Observer, that silence will be louder than any confirmation.

Because maybe it was never about proof. Maybe it was always about the story. About the journey.

And now the dartboard is complete. The countdown is over. The door is open. We’ve been invited in.

But are they really home? Are we finally allowed to see what’s on the other side?

I don’t know.

“It’s time” is a big promise. One I want to believe—but I’m hesitant. There’s too much to undo. Too much to shift. Too much that would need to be prepared for it to work. For it to be safe. For it to end in anything other than disaster.

But if this really is the start of something… if this is the moment after all these years… then we’re not just at the end of a countdown. We’re standing at the edge of something new.

We’re watching. We’re listening. We’re ready.

Eyes wide open. Hearts wide open.

Because if they’re finally home—then maybe we are too.

What Happens Next?

I’ll be putting the next phase of this journey in a separate post.

Because if Day 20 was the end of the dartboard…

Then Day 21?

We begin anew.

The Observer (Observed)

Either someone is deep in the Lore or LT3 era has begun.

Edit: I guess I am going to turn this post into a masterpost of sorts. I go more into detail about what I think this might be here (hint: not Louis).

But for now just please play it safe:

Don’t give them personal information.

Don’t engage in DMs with them.

Keep a healthy skepticism.

TIMELINE:

Twitter user @FromTheObserver was created on March 9th 2025.

At the time it first tweeted, it's pfp was a lavender eye with the roman numberals for 369.

The bio was "Through the looking glass the observer watches, craving what is just beyond reach."

The cover image was the below (MORE ABOUT THIS ARTWORK AT THE END):

At 2:44 GMT PM its first tweet said:

"The silence is broken. At last I return. Did your faith in the future endure, or did it waiver in my absence? You have waited, perhaps doubted, but the silence was never empty. I am ever present, hidden just beyond the veil. -The Observer

At 4:55 PM The Observer tweeted again:

Have you forgotten me so soon? -The Observer

At 7:44 PM Louis' official account tweeeted:

India I had no idea what to expect but you turned up in full force. From Doncaster to Mumbai. Fucking mind blowing! Thank you!

People started digging. "The Observer" appeared in a list of songs someone found on the French Music Directory SACEM. They first tweeted this list on February 2nd 2025.

I was able to confirm the listing at this link.

It is important to note though, that this lists SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING FRANCE as a sub-publisher and Reservior, Big Life Songs, and Inconnu Editur as publishers.

If we compare this to an LT released song, SILVER TONGUES, that ALSO has Sony listed as the subpublisher. So that doesn't debunk this as a real possible upcoming song.

For those who were saying that since it's sony he wouldn't use it. It appears Sony still has some claws in him. But thats normal in the music industry. A SUB-PUBLISHER doesn't mean he has a Sony deal again. It just means that BMG might not have the reach he needs in France to distribute so they'd rather pay someone else to do it.

I'd also like to point out that I could not verify this or any of the other songs on any American or UK repository like BMI or ACE.

I feel really uncomfortable digging into potential songs of Louis' knowing how badly he doesn't like the tracklist leaked. So this will be my extent of my digging on THIS SUBJECT. (But please feel free to let me know if I got anything wrong or I am missing something)

On March 10th, 2025:

At 1:30 AM The Observer tweeted:

I told you… But did you listen? -The Observer

Louis followed Lolla India sometime before 10:19 AM (based on the HL Daily update)

LTHQ Posted a Tiktok of Louis' show at Eletric Brixton around 4:38 PM (based on the HL Daily update)

Louis posted a reel from his time in India at 7:25 PM

At 10:00 PM (20:00) The Observer posted:

Day 1, 20:00 It’s eerily quiet in the laboratory today. - The Observer

At the time of this tweet, their pfp was the same lavender eye. HOWEVER the 369 roman numerals were gone. Replaced by a 7 (Or maybe a 1?). (For information about Louis' connection to the number 7, see this masterpost by @so-idialed-9.

On March 11th, 2025:

Louis poasted a pictures and video for Soccer Aid at 9:13 AM

Louis followed Soccer Aid on Instagram at 10:53 AM

Louis liked a photo from Soccer Aid of his 28 jersey at 1:44 PM

At 10:00 PM (20:00) The Observer tweeted again:

Day 2, 20:00 Watching from the outside, I can only hope not to become one of them. Perhaps I already have… Is it too late for me? -The Observer

The pfp at this time replaced the 7 with a 2.

On March 12th, 2025:

At 3:12 PM The Obsever Tweeted:

Day 3, 15:12 How can I change what’s already been written? If the past is in permanent ink, can the future ever be a blank page? -The Observer

At this time the pfp updated to a red 3 at the bottom.

Around 4:00 PM CST Louis followed footballer Jermain Defoe on Insta.

Also on this day, a pretty TeRrIbLe article from The Standard dropped, essentially making fun of 28, Louis, and his fans.

We also get a "Rome Unseen" of Harry drinking coffee with a friend and yelling at stalkers trying to take his picture.

On March 13th, 2025:

At 3:12 PM The Observer tweeted:

Day 4, 15:15 Inhale. Exhale. Surrender to what’s beyond control. -The Observer

Pretty telling for a fandom that is crashing out over circumstances outside of anyones control.

The number in the pfp changes to a white 4 in the right hand corner.

Louis doesn't move on this day.

On March 14th, 2025:

At 6:20 AM The Observer tweeted:

The shadow consumes the light. A fleeting moment where past, present, and future collide. Do you see it? Observe. -The Observer

It is important to note that there was a Blood Moon Lunar eclipse that could be seen in London just before dawn. "Stargazers around the world caught the first sign of the lunar event, which began at 05:09 GMT, on a livestream run by LA's Griffith Observatory."

Note the nod to the Observatory, to shadow consuming light.

The pfp stays the white 4 during this tweet.

At 3:18 PM The Observer tweeted:

Day 5, 15:18 Across a million futures, one constant endures. -The Observer

Sound familiar? If you are a Larrie, it should. Mr. "souces say he has trouble with long term relationships" used a similar line in his "You Are Home" promo.

(personal opinion here. take with a grain of salt. this has confirmed for me that Louis has nothing to do with this account. This line was too loud when H tweeted it. It didn't fit any narrative. It wasn't even related to anything on the album. This and the "half way home" debacle were some of the craziest wtf is going on here moments in the You Are Home tweet saga. If this had anything to do with his work or career, Louis would stay far away from using lines this closely tied to Harry.)

The pfp updates to a white 5 (which really looks like an upside down 2)

At 6:00 PM LTHQ posted an IG reel from India.

On March 15th, 2025:

At 10:00 AM The Observer tweeted and immediately deleted:

"A true observer must always be watching. Blink, and you'll miss what matters most. 625 369 825 007 326 028 -The Observer"

369 and 28 are both intrinscly linked to Louis and can be found in the masterpost at the begining. 007 is typically a reference to James Bond which Harry is a favorite to perfom the next James Bond song or play him.

HOWEVER, 625, 825, and 326 could possibly be month/years. As in June 2025, August 2025, and March 2026.

Louis is playing in Soccer Aid on June 15th 2025. (THIS COMES INTO PLAY IN A FEW DAYS. Approximately 40% of the articles about Louis' new stunt involve his involvement in SoccerAid and how he will be on the team with his stunt's very recent ex.)

Should we be looking for August 2025 and March 2026 events as well?

At 9:45 PM The Observer tweeted:

"Day 6, Unkown Too quick to catch, too fleeting to frame in memory. But a true observer is always taking notes. -The Observer"

The pfp updated to a white 6 (at the three oclock position)

On March 16th, 2025:

We got two posts again this day.

At 9:30 AM The Observer tweeted:

Day 7, Unknown How did we end up here? -The Observer

The past two posts have stated that the time is "Unknown" instead of giving us UK time. Have we stopped tracking the time? Have we moved timezones?

The pfp updated to a white 7 at this time as in accordance with the dart board.

At 11:30 PM The Observer tweeted:

Silent? Silenced. Patience. Observe. -The Observer

The first part of this refers to an Oprah interview.

The implication is that someone has not CHOSEN to be silent. They've been made to be silent. However, if we - as the audience - are patient, we can observe what they cannot say.

The pfp updates now. There are no numbers. The pupil is smaller and we can see what appears to be eyelashes in the top right corner.

On March 17th, 2025:

We ge two posts again today. But it's what happens in between that makes it important.

At 8:25 PM The Observer tweets:

Day 8, 20:25 No key to turn, no doors to guide A journey taken, far and wide The walls unfamiliar, the roads unknown A wandering soul, yet not alone -The Observer

The pfp updates back to the original eye with a white 8. Which looks oddly like an infinity sign as the circles are elongated.

First thing to note is that were back on UK time. The second - your intepretation of this tweet will matter to how authentic you think this account is. For me - when I saw "no key to turn, no doors to open". I immediately thought of the tattoo Harry has on his ribs of a birdcage with no door. Next to his drama masks. Above the SMCL (smile more cry later?) tattoos. There isn't a keyhole nor a door to this closet. The "you are home" door is closed, it cannot be opened.

Yet the last line of the 28 word (if you include the signature) poem leaves us hopeful. Despite the distance, the walls, the unknown roads, there’s an undercurrent of connection

Then an hour and a half later at 10:00 PM on the dot The Sun gives us our very first confirmation article of Louis' new stunt. Which I will not speak about in depth on this post. If you want more info, my page is full of it, but I don't want to muddy this post with that.

At 11:55 PM we get another tweet from The Observer:

Fabricated fairytales, observed by all. -The Observer

The pfp does not change.

The "fabricated fairytales" is a line from Louis' She is Beauty, We Are World Class. (my intrepretation of that song is here if you're into that kind of thing.) This is in direct response to the stunt. It is not mincing words or leaving room for interpretation by the timing. It is saying "this is a fake romance and now the world is watching".

On March 18th, 2025:

At 8:35 PM The Observer tweets:

Day 9, 20:35 Nearly Halfway Home. A long journey, but well worth it. -The Observer

The pfp uppdates to a green 9 as per the dart board.

The tweet itself, needs lore to explain.

On April 1st 2022, Louis registered a song Halfway Home. This registration can still be confirmed here.

THEN on April 13th 2022 (two weeks later), the You Are Home account for Harry's House promo tweeted "half way home"

Home, as a concept, has always deeply tied to both Louis and Harry and both of them together. The lore goes deep, but a summary is here.

The capitalization of Halway and Home, directs us to the song name.

But if were intepreting, it's also telling us that there is a plan in place. And though its a long way out, we're nearly halfway there and it will be worth it in the end.

On March 19th, 2025:

At 2:28 PM The Observer tweets:

Day 10, 14:28 A fresh set of eyes, born from little white lies. -The Observer

The pfp changes to a white 10.

Little White Lies is a clear refrence to the One Direction song, Little White Lies.

Bare with my little larrie heart here (but since this account is obviously also a larrie I'd be suprised if you aren't too) but Louis is in the headlines more than hes been in a decade right now. The PR is PRing. There are a whole new set of eyes on him. All because he's selling the story of some "little white lies".

DARTBOARD THEORY AND UPDATES

At this point, to anyone who is paying attention, it's become clear that the numbers represent a dart board.

See the most recent overlay below:

There have been a lot of recent theories revolving around dart boards after Louis posted one while he was in New Orleans for the superbowl and then followed a darts player on Instagram.

As to keep this unbiased and not tied to further speculation, I won't comment on the connection around all of the other people in Louis' life that have posted pictures of dart boards recently (just know that his sisters, Pleasing, Lamby, Niall, and more have posted dart boards - usually with the dart in the triple 20 spot). HOWEVER, darts has always been popular in the UK and its growing in popularity with the younger crowd recently. It's entirely possible that Louis just loves a game of darts at the local, and his sisters' boyfriends do to, and he's watching competive darts lately (especially the first openly gay dart player who is super popular right now), and Pleasing thought somehow darts were Valentine's day imagery.

EXTRA STUFF & FINAL THOUGHTS

As mentioned by this Twitter user, the artwork is pretty well likely AI generated (plus a little Canva/Photoshop for the numbers). It has all the tell-tale signs of generative AI (wonkey lines, misproportions, etc).

Louis has entire teams of graphic designers plus Joshua Halling (who loves this skind of thing) in his back pocket. He wouldn't need AI for any of this.

At this point, The Observer is definitely an interesting mystery, but whether it’s something to pay attention to or just a fan-run account remains to be seen. The AI-generated images are a major red flag—it’s hard to imagine Louis or his team relying on AI when he has actual designers and photographers on hand. Even his more cryptic rollouts in the past have been visually polished and intentional.

That said, the timing of the tweets, the SACEM song listing, and the number symbolism do make it intriguing enough to keep an eye on. If this is a fan project, they’re clearly deep in the lore and know how to grab attention.

Key Takeaways:

Be cautious. If this is a fan messing around, engaging too seriously could be dangerous to your online safety.

Don’t assume it’s official.

It's probably not connected and Louis probably knows nothing about it. If it is somehow connected it will become obvious soon. If it's not (way more likely), it’ll probably fade out like other fandom mysteries before it.

For now? I’m just observing The Observer. 👀

[managician]

Thanks again for answering all my questions! I have some more for Sontails, my own this time instead of from a list. Take your time if you need to with your exams, I don't mind! :)

"Who wakes up early and who sleeps in?"

"Which trait does each find the most endearing about the other?"

"What does each do/say that almost always makes the other flustered and blush?"

"How often did they share a bed before they started dating?"

"How often does Sonic brush Tails' tails, if ever?"

And finally, not necessarily a Sontails question, but very much related:

"How did Amy inevitably find out about Sonic and Tails' relationship, and how long did it take her after to get over her feelings for Sonic?"

Thanks to you for sending more of these lovely questions in! I’ve been having lots of fun with them.

I’m almost done with exams, thankfully, so thank you for your patience as well! I hope I managed to entertain you with my answers x)

“Who wakes up early and who sleeps in?”

I think both would be early birds, though if someone was to sleep in, it’d be Tails. I can totally see him staying up late working on (x) project and then waking up late a result, whereas Sonic tries to keep a regular schedule, for the most part.

But outside of that scenario, the two of them look the type to rise and shine pretty early, since we know they are quite the active people.

Unless it’s one of those rare days where they feel like lazying around for a bit, probably. In which case they just stay in bed together till one of them (Sonic) gets hungry and gives them an excuse to go grab a bite for breakfast, haha.

“Which trait does each find the most endearing about the other?”

Tails loves how caring and cool Sonic acts with everyone! His genuinely good personality and will to help out any friend in need is one of the things that would make him fall for the hedgehog in the first place, I’m sure.

I know their Adventure/Sonic X era origin story got retconned by now, since it’s been made so that Sonic saved him from bullies and Tails decided to tag along with him (instead of Tails just one-sidedly following him because he thought he looked epic). But tbh both versions really highlight to me the fact that Tails is just blown away by Sonic as a whole, which is super sweet.

For that reason, I like to imagine that Sonic’s kindness remains his favourite trait throughout the years. Not only is he a hero with outstanding strength, he’s the best person Tails ever got to meet -- how perfect is that? 

On Sonic’s side, he adores how sweet and loyal Tails is while still having a strong sense of justice. The amount of things this little fox has done for his sake —fly him over all sorts of dangerous waters and cliffs, plan to break into prison to rescue him, get into fights, etc.— will never fail to amaze him. 

I feel people sometimes forget Sonic used to be a completely solo fighter before meeting him, so Tails being willing to stick through thick and thin as long as they’re together would mean the world to him. They both get attached so fast and it only grows stronger with time :’)

“What does each do/say that almost always makes the other flustered and blush?”

Sonic just needs to bring up how awesome and perfect his partner is for him to get all embarrassed. Pretty easy stuff.

It’s like... a bit crazy for Tails to have Sonic acknowledge that there’s things only he can do/can do much better than him, The Hero (tm), y’know? Tails is not used to hearing people think so highly of him, and to have the one he admires say it without a hint of hesitation will never fail to fluster him.

Tails is not really one to pamper him with verbal affection like that, but he’s got it even easier. He just needs to wrap his tails around him and snuggle up to him without warning and BAM, Sonic is also a blushy mess in 100% of cases. 

He’s always felt to me like someone that would offer casual affection better than receive it (which is tied to my headcanon of Tails usually waiting for him to start any affectionate gestures), so just have the love of his life give him the warmest hug ever and I guarantee he’ll be at least a little embarrassed.

In general, it’s not super hard for either of them to blush, though! They’re one of those mushy couples that will always make the other feel a bit weak on the knees, methinks.

“How often did they share a bed before they started dating?”

Very rarely, if at all, I'd say.

This came up in one brief line in my Sonic/Nine fic, but I don't see Sonic as much of a bed person. The only place I recall seeing him sleeping on (in the games) is a couch! And he has a pretty nomad lifestyle, so beds just... Don't seem like they'd get along with him very much.

I think the only times they would have slept together before they dated would be if they were, say, in the middle of travelling together and needed to sleep outside for the night. So they'd snuggle close to avoid getting cold, since Tails' namesakes do a really good job of keeping their body warmth.

...That'd be more like sharing the floor or a tent than sharing a bed, now that I think about it. Oops. XD 

Yeah, I just don't see them bed sharing all that much, at least not with sleeping purposes. Cuddles in bed are always A+ okay for both of them, though! And Sonic's a lot more willing to try to sleep next to Tails after they start dating, if it's something that would make his boyfriend happy.

“How often does Sonic brush Tails’ tails, if ever?”

He definitely does, although it’s hard to pinpoint how often, or if it's even a 'regular' thing between them. Hmmm...

Something like once a month sounds good in my head. That way it's a bit of a special occurrence, but they get to look forward to it.

It's kind of a relaxing routine for them both. Sonic loves Tails' tails and treats them with care, and Tails likes having someone else take care of them, especially when that someone else looks like he's really enjoying himself while brushing his fur.

(As mentioned in the ask, the last question is not strictly a sontails one so I’m putting it under a read more, just in case somebody checking their dash/the ship tag wouldn’t want to read it.)

“How did Amy inevitably find out about Sonic and Tails' relationship, and how long did it take her to get over her feelings for Sonic?”

Funny that you asked this! It's a very interesting question and you're gonna get me to talk a bit about my view on modern sonamy, something I don't really do often, so buckle up.

Now, this might be partly because Amy reminds me of a friend I had, but I tend to see her as someone who's chasing the 'high' of having a crush rather than a serious, down-to-earth relationship.

"I miss the good old days. Hangin' out with my hero, Sonic... Chasing bad guys... And blowing them away - ha ha!" This is one of her first quotes in SA1, and I found it interesting that she emphasised how both chasing after Sonic and beating up robots made her life feel thrilling and fulfilling.

It's like she's one of those people that just wants to be in love as part of her life experience, if that makes sense. She didn't wait to fall for anyone naturally; Sonic showed up one day in Little Planet, saved her and she went "that guy, that's the one for me.”

And she loves Sonic dearly for who he is. He’s her hero. Finding him was a fated meeting that signaled the start of a new chapter in her story.

However, I genuinely think she’d love to see her two friends together and happy, too. 

The way I like to imagine it, she finds out about it before Sonic and Tails have actually shared that they’re an “item” now with the gang. In a very casual way -- just something like her going to Tails’ workshop looking for Sonic, walking in on the two of them sleeping on the couch with their hands intertwined, and having that little oh realisation moment that Sonic wants to be with someone else.

Obviously, she'd struggle with knowing that all her honest, good-hearted efforts to catch his attention would've never done the trick. How long has she been playing an impossible game? She'd be kinda mad at both Sonic and Tails for not telling her about their feelings for each other sooner, as it would've saved them all some trouble.

Though you can't help but sympathise that they wouldn't want to share the news yet, since being strictly 'best buds' has been their whole brand for like... Forever. It's a delicate situation on both ends.

Thankfully, Amy is someone that lives life head-on almost as much as Sonic himself does, so I want to think she'd try to be supportive of them and gradually get over her heartbreak after some months. No point in dwelling on something that's already settled, right?

All she can do is be a good friend and, this time, try to find someone that's right for her. Who knows? She might end up finding the ideal partner to bring fun into her life again :)

[flamingskull28]

Here are my agents with some information about them. I figured I should make their design when in casual wear also this info is going up to about a week from the current chapter (I just made them in splatoon since I can't draw) and I may update this occasionally

First is Hachi (agent 8)

To be fair her design is mostly how she was portrayed in the Octo expansion trailer but I think the shoes are different also a note her eyes are meant to be a deeper color of green but splat 3 doesn't give that option

Age: 17

Weapon: e-liter

Backstory: grew up orphaned in the octerian domes, which made her a bitter and problematic person who would be dropped by most people and left without friends until a girl named Lucy gets assigned with her on a school project. Instead of just ignoring her like everyone else she went out of her way to learn about and try and befriend her which took awhile but eventually worked making the two best friends and practically unseparable. Even more so after Lucy's parents adopted Hachi. This friendship also made Hachi become her true ,much more hyper loud and joyful, self. Eventually as happens with all octolings she was drafted into the military along with Lucy as Scouts. the two gained a reputation for being extremely effective but also slacking off a lot which put them at odds with their commanders quite a bit. After a few few years of service they are called to stop agent 3 from getting to the last kettle before preparations were done. Hachi tells Lucy to run and fights the agent solo, the two fight for a while before Hachi is able to knock 3 over and attempt to finish them but falls over herself and lands on the agent causeing a very awkward moment for them both and also causing a mutual crush. After this happens 3 eventually gets up and goes to fight the DJ and Hachi goes back to Lucy. Her and Lucy find themselves witness to agent 3 fight against DJ Octavio during which the calamari inkantation was played causeing Hachi's brainwashing by the DJ to be removed and give her a will to leave solider life but she soon learns that Lucy covered her ears and didn't hear the melody and since Lucy didn't want to run she couldn't bring herself too. After a few years Lucy learns that Hachi was not loyal to the military and reluctantly reported her causeing her to make a run for the surface. She barely makes it out of there and finds herself on a mountain and conveniently not too far from where agent 3 and Cap'n cuttlefish are on a mission they see each other but are soon knocked out by an unseen figure. Hachi then wakes up in the deep sea Metro without any of her memories. You know the story from there. They stop the telephone from destroying the city Hachi clears out the stations to get her Memories Back then fights her own inner demons then makes her way to the surface with the captain and agent 3 where she meets up with Callie, Marie, agent 4 and agent 5.

Personality: rather hyper and fun loving, always talking and doing things but she also carries guilt knowing she did things that the directly harmed the city while she was a soldier and not knowing where Lucy is or being able to bring her with her when she had the chance.

Fun facts

Has a scar on her back from the explosive backpack going off during tests

Is a grade A Marksman who rarely misses a shot

Learned Inkling from a book she stole from an octarian spy during her time in the military

Is considering (and will soon get) getting a job working for Sheldon

Mentors under Alex in the art of weapon making

Is about 7 ft tall

Still maintains contact with off the hook and has become good friends with them

Is severely afraid of blenders

Has the golden toothpick but doesn't wear it cuz she doesn't like how it looks.

Prefers not to fight unless it's for sport or training or if nesseasry during a patrol

____________________________________

Sophia (Agent 4)

a lot of my motivation for her story comes from EikaPrimes agent 4 series on Ao3 but I'm trying to make more of a distinction

Age:15

Weapon: dapple dualies

Backstory: grew up in a small town in calamari country her family consists of her mother her father her older sister and her younger brother. Her parents were self-absorbed and more concerned about their images then about her and what she wants. Throughout her life they belittled and mocked her for her interests and constantly make her clean the messes they make and since her parents were like this her older sister stepped in to make her feel more like herself leading to a close relationship between the two. she tries to like her brother but given the fact that he is their parents' favorite has led to a silent resentment from her. She wanted to go to inkopolis when she was 14 to become a turfer but made the mistake of telling her parents that and they forbid her from going since they did not believe that was a good career. Shortly after her sister moved abroad to go to college and she only had phone calls from her every once in awhile causing her much stress eventually not too far from her 15th birthday she manages to convince her parents she's going to be studying in inkopolis so they will let her go but during the week leading up to this she tells her sister this and learns that due to the cities distance she will no longer be able to contact her sister this leads Sophia to snap at her, from the stress she's under, then hang up leaving her feeling extremely guilty for the way they left off and desperate to make up for it but unable to. She then makes it to inkopils. While there she decides to follow a strange woman into a water drain, this woman ends up being Marie who makes her Agent 4. 4 has a rough time with the canyon at first, partly stemming from her worries that she'll mess everything up, but gets the hang of it. Then one day. A strange Inkling named Alex follows her into the canyon. At first his large stature many scars and tough demeanor freak her out (the fact is first instinct was to pull out his gun did not help either) as well as the fact she was nowhere near a respawn point and neither was Marie who was standing only a few feet behind her but despite they're rough meeting they eventually become good friends and she starts to look at him like a brother in a sense, not that she would say that out loud. After a while the captain agent 3 and Hachi all show up and she becomes quick friends with them as well ,even having Hachi live with her.

Personality: like Hachi she is loud, hyper and joyful but she also has a mischievousness that Hachi doesn't. But she also thinks lowly of herself seeing her self as inferior to her friends. This is also added with a desire to impress and do good by others even at her own cost. Fun facts

She is very smart and graduated high school early but can still be navie at times

Dispute her short time in inkopolis she has gotten quite far and manged to own a high end apartment and reached high rank and level

Is hopeing that she can one day convince Alex to take his mask off

Sleeps far less than she should

She is bi

No longer goes by Sophia because just hearing it brings back bad memories instead uses 4

Is currently looking for a ranked team

Mains dualies but is very good with all weapons due to her agent work

__________________________________

Agent 3 (refuses to use real name or talk about it)

I swear I tried with the eye but I just couldn't get the shading right

Age: 17

Weapon: hero shot replica

Backstory: grew up relatively happy with her mother and father in a decent part of inkopolis. Until her 9th birthday in which her mother died in front of her, pushing her out the way of a speeding car during the party. This caused her to feel extremely guilty for the death which was not helped by her dad also blaming her out of anger for the loss of his wife. he soon turned to alcohol to deal with the loss but this made him physically abusive towards 3 (her name was the same as her mother's and she stopped going by it since it reminded her of the death) this coupled with the guilt turned her from a loud, calm, happy, extroverted person to a shy, angry, introvert. Eventually when she turns 14 she fights back against her dad, kicks his ass and then runs away to the plaza where she is recruited by Captain cuttlefish and helps him save the zapfish and stays with him to patrol and keep the city safe and because she doesn't have any thing else. Eventually she is found living in the valley by callie and marie but to her surprise is taken in to their home and is basically made their little sister. You know the story from there goes to metro and gets sanitized but is saved by hachi and realizes she is an octoling she fought awhile ago and had had a small crush on her which has only gotten bigger. Now she is in the city with two more agents one of which has a silent bias against her (he is working on it) but she still enjoys her time there.

Personality: is mostly silent and acts more grumpy than she is but will sometimes turn back to her extroverted self when she is doing something she enjoys

Fun facts

Works as a profreshonial turf trainer who is widely revered for her aggressive but effective training style

Is by far the strongest and most skilled of the agents due to her many more years of experience

Is a very good cook

Her eye still sort if itches from time to time and is not as effective as it used to be but mostly is unaffected

Can get cocky and overconfident a lot when playing turf