#those two are in for the KILL. murder buddies. let's go

[autisticshadowthehedgehog]

tangle: alright, we're gonna go find mimic and stop him! non-lethally, right?

whisper and silver:

[good-chimes]

Operational Log from the Government Institute for Ghost Supervision (G.I.G.S.):

AGENTS: “ImpulseSV”, “Skizzleman”, “Grian”, “GoodTimesWithScar”

SUPERVISOR: [Redacted]

[Impulse has submitted a request for ‘$2000’ for reason ‘Van’]

SUPERVISOR: Hi boys. Pleasure to be working with you. Can you give a better reason than ‘van’ for why you need two fucking thousand American dollars?

IMPULSE: Oh, sorry sir. We just need to replace some things in the van.

GRIAN: By which he means everything in the van.

SUPERVISOR: You lost ALL YOUR EQUIPMENT?

IMPULSE: You’re new, aren’t you, sir. Have you…met Scar?

SUPERVISOR: I have your personnel files. What does this have to do with Scar?

GRIAN: Oh, you’ll find out.

IMPULSE: Our last supervisor just sort of, uh, approved things. I’ve got receipts.

SKIZZ: We’re at the school, guys! Stop chatting and get in there!

IMPULSE: Gotta go!

[crackle]

GRIAN: Okay, so Scar, Impulse and Skizz are in the building. So far we’ve got the power turned on but no clues. There’s a spooky sort of bonfire in the main hall. Got skulls on it.

SCAR: I lit the bonfire!

GRIAN: Breaking news, Scar has lit the bonfire.

SUPERVISOR: Why did you light the bonfire!? You could draw the attention of a ghost!

GRIAN: Yeah, Skizz, why did you let Scar set something on fire? Pretty irresponsible.

SKIZZ: [noise of incoherent outrage] You try stopping him, buddy.

GRIAN: Can’t, I’m in the van. [further noise of outrage from Skizz]. Impulse is reporting EMF Level 5—didn’t anyone set up cameras? What kind of team doesn’t set up cameras? We’ve got a new supervisor to impress.

SUPERVISOR: Cameras should not be set up during a mission! You should have set them up in the daytime!

IMPULSE: We could use some cameras.

SKIZZ: GRIAN, YOU GET IN HERE, BUDDY.

GRIAN: Okay, okay, fine! I’ll get the cameras.

SUPERVISOR: Why are you risking the whole team in the building at the same—

[Scar has submitted request for ‘$5’ for reason ‘glowsticks’]

SUPERVISOR: Why on god’s green earth do you need glowsticks!?

SKIZZ: Scar, those don’t do anything.

SCAR: They keeps you safe from ghosts!

SKIZZ: What, because they’re too cool for raves?

SCAR: I want glowsticks or I’m resigning.

SUPERVISOR: You can’t resign in the middle of mission!

IMPULSE: Haunt! Everyone quiet!

SUPERVISOR: Wait, a real haunt? That’s highly dangerous! Get out!

[crackle]

IMPULSE: False alarm, that noise was Skizz and Scar frying hot dogs.

[Scar has submitted request for ‘$1’ for reason ‘needs salt’]

SUPERVISOR: Not approved! You’re not supposed to fry hotdogs on an eldritch bonfire!

SKIZZ: We were hungry!

GRIAN: Wait, you guys have hotdogs in there? I’m coming in.

IMPULSE: Oh, wait—wait—yep, there’s the haunt.

[crackle]

GRIAN: Well, Scar’s dead.

SUPERVISOR: Oh god! What!

IMPULSE: I was wondering why they didn’t get attacked. Just a slow ghost, I guess.

SUPERVISOR: An agent is dead and you’re joking!?

GRIAN: Oh, he’ll be fine.

SKIZZ: I got some tarot cards here.

SUPERVISOR: Don’t touch the cursed items! Find your colleague’s body!

[crackle]

SCAR: I hate all of you. You left me to die.

SUPERVISOR: What? Just a goddamn minute. That was a joke? Agent Scar is alive?

IMPULSE: Scar, buddy, cheer up.

SCAR: Grian shut a door in my face!

SUPERVISOR: One agent impeded another’s investigation?

SCAR: Yeah! I was impuded!

GRIAN: What! How is this my fault! A ghost was coming at me and I shut a door!

SCAR: And killed me!

GRIAN: That sounds like a you problem.

SCAR: Sir, I want to file a complaint. About Grian.

SUPERVISOR: Well, put in a placeholder and we’ll—

[Scar has submitted file ‘grain Complaint’]

[Grian has submitted file ‘Grian’s Official Resignation Letter’]

SUPERVISOR: Boys, this sounds like it’s gotten heated, let’s take it offline. Agent Scar, we’ll look into this later. Agent Grian, put your resignation on hold.

IMPULSE: They do this a lot.

SKIZZ: It’s affection. You love each other.

SCAR: I love Grian not murdering me.

GRIAN: I love Scar saving me some hot dogs. Oh wait, he didn’t.

SKIZZ: C’mon, fellas, where’s this ghost?

IMPULSE: We gotta use some of these cursed items.

GRIAN: I vote Scar looks in the haunted mirror. Anyone else want to volunteer? No? See, vote carried.

[Scar has submitted file ‘Im Resigning’]

[Grian has submitted file ‘I’m Resigning HARDER’]

[Scar has submitted file ‘No your not’]

[Last 3 requests have been denied]

SUPERVISOR: How on earth do you work with them?

[Grian has submitted file ‘Turbo Resignation Letter’]

IMPULSE: Oh, me and Skizz have got a knack for it, sir. You just have to let them work it out. Or shut one of them up for the ghost to get.

[Last 1 request has been denied]

SUPERVISOR: Boys, this is sounding like a really dangerous situation and I think you should get out of there. I’m calling a retreat.

SKIZZ: Gimme the mirror, I’ll try saying the ghost’s name.

SUPERVISOR: Did you hear me? Is this thing on? Saying the name is EXPLICITLY the one thing that is unsafe to do on missions!

GRIAN: Huh. Maybe we should have read the manual.

SKIZZ: Just let me do it, sir, we get results.  

SUPERVISOR: Are you four always like this?

IMPULSE: Oh, no. Usually these missions go much worse.

SUPERVISOR: No! No, nobody is looking in any cursed mirrors! I have eighty successful mission supervisions under my belt—

SCAR: Sounds uncomfortable.

SUPERVISOR: Our department has a clean record of no agent deaths—

GRIAN: Oh damn, I knew I should have submitted our reports.

SUPERVISOR: And I—What reports?

IMPULSE: Don’t tell him about the reports!

SUPERVISOR: Is this data right? You haven’t sent in a report in… five YEARS?

GRIAN: One thing and another, you know.

SUPERVISOR: No! Enough! You are the WORST team I have ever worked with and every practice you have is UNSAFE and I bet one of you is looking in the cursed mirror RIGHT NOW—

[crackle]

[crackle]

GRIAN: Scar’s dead again.

SUPERVISOR: [calming breath] Okay, you lot clearly have your jokes, like last time, but I need you to know that’s not funny.

GRIAN: I can get a picture of how he ragdolled. His head’s on backwards. It’s hilarious.

[Grian has submitted photo file lol.jpg]

SUPERVISOR: … That … that is a man who has been killed by a malevolent spirit! That spirit is deadly!

SKIZZ: Funny, the ones they send us on are always deadly.

IMPULSE: Get him back to the van.

SUPERVISOR: LEAVE IMMEDIATELY! I AM CALLING AN AMBULANCE!

IMPULSE: You don’t need to do that—

GRIAN: Hey! Dots! I just saw dots!

SKIZZ: Yes! Mark off dots!

IMPULSE: Sweet, we’ve got it! It’s a White Lady! Let’s go, guys!

SUPERVISOR: Is anyone listening? Is anyone listening to me?

[crackle]

SUPERVISOR: Come in. Come in.

SUPERVISOR: I know you’re driving back. Answer your goddamn radio.

SCAR: Well, hello there.

SUPERVISOR: This is very serious. I have to report Agent Scar’s death—Agent Scar? Is that you?

SCAR: The one, the only!

SUPERVISOR: You were dead!

SCAR: Oh, yeah, but then they brought me into the van and we left.

SUPERVISOR: How—what—

SCAR: I dunno, ask Impulse! I’m usually dead by this point.

SUPERVISOR: Agent Impulse! How!

IMPULSE: Me and Skizz have been doing this a long time, sir. Guess we’ve just got a knack.

SUPERVISOR: A knack for—a knack for—I’m going to get a drink.

SCAR: Toast our great success. Hey, hey, Grian, that’s my hot dog. I died for that hot dog!

GRIAN: You weren’t looking! Finder’s keepers!

IMPULSE: Careful of the wheel, guys, careful of the wheel—

SUPERVISOR: I’m never working with your team again!

SKIZZ: Yeah? I get ya, buddy. See you next week.

[itsabouttimex2]

Do you think that Tang Sanzang was abusive? I see it in the fandom a lot and it’s pretty contentious

The reason people think that LMK!Sanzang is abusive is because the circlet makes no sense outside the context of Sun Wukong being a borderline supervillain, and using a heavenly restraining bolt (That’s putting it kindly, of course. There’s been comparisons to shock collars, which are unflattering but not entirely unfair. Still, let’s be fair to the intention and not simply the execution of the circlet- it was to keep Wukong from murdering people/running away from the journey.) on someone who has already been punished for his wrongdoings for five full centuries is excessive as best, viciously petty at worst.

Outside of the context of Sun Wukong being a borderline supervillain, I’ll repeat.

I’m going to level right here- I think that in the book, the circlet was entirely justified, and that calling Sanzang an abuser for that is silly. But LMK is not the book, and I think it’s also silly to try and use JTTW-specific writing when people are talking about LMK. What Book!Sun Wukong is not what Show!Sun Wukong did, because the two of them are different characters in different stories. Not only that, but the tone and genre of those stories are wildly different, and I’m so tired of people being willfully ignorant to the fact that LMK is a divergent adaptation.

To start: Sun Wukong did nothing to earn the circlet.

Not in the form of “Sun Wukong has never done anything wrong ever in his life!” but really more so in the form of “Does anything in that picture up above seem wrong to you?”

And if there is something that seems off… good job! You’ve noticed a critical change from book to show!

Among the LMK fandom there’s this misconception that Wukong got the circlet because he assaulted Heaven and tried to take it over, but… no. His punishment for that was being locked under Five Phases Mountain, and then when he was released under the premise of guiding Sanzang, that was it. Punishment over. So, what did Wukong do to “earn” his collaring?

One- Smash a non-threatening tiger’s head into pulp and skin it right in front of Sanzang, then string the fur around himself.

Two- round up six people who are currently not a threat to him and beat them all to death in front of his new master.

Three- admit to his master’s face that he honestly doesn’t even remember how many people he’s killed through his life, without a speck of shame or remorse.

Four: Throw a fit and run away to sulk. I’m not fucking with you- it takes being lectured of all ONE time before he quits and gives up on self-betterment, and has to be talked into rejoining by a draconic king.

In Journey To The West, the Monkey King, well- he’s not that great of a person. In fact, he’s pretty damn bad. And he’s quite blunt about it, too. Old Sun really likes to talk in great detail about how many people he’s killed, eaten, and in general just been an absolute menace to. JTTW!Sun Wukong saw that he needed to convince his master that the girl (actually the White Bone Spirit) he killed was a demon in disguise and decided that the best way to do it was… to level out how many times he had murdered people by transforming into enticing forms.

(Source for content and translation.)

Not a good look for you, buddy.

Under the context of Sun Wukong being able, willing, and quick to murder indiscriminately, oftentimes without explanation or even giving a second thought to alternative options, the circlet as a safeguard makes sense, and Sanzang seems rational to turn to using it because not only is there not really anything else he can do, but because we get to see the Monkey King acting like someone who needs a torture circlet to keep him in check, we give him more slack for doing it.

That’s important!

If (Char A) is going to string (Char B) up with a divine shock collar but still be someone we sympathize and agree with, then (Char A) needs to have a very good reason to do it.

JTTW!Sun Wukong has that reason.

He kills people. He kills people for fun, for food, for pissing him off, for causing him trouble.

But LMK!Sun Wukong is not a killer, he’s not a cannibal, and he’s certainly not the threat that his book counterpart ever was.

When this doesn’t earn you a collar?

When butchering and serving up mortals to a horde of hungry demons more than a mile long doesn’t get you the collar, but leading a bloodless siege on Heaven does?

And speaking of blood!

Here is only one shot of the literal mountains of death that Sha Wujing built! He murdered hundreds, maybe thousands of people! And he was still going for more!

When this doesn’t get you a collar? When murder and butchery and the eating of mortals doesn’t get you a collar? When mountains of death don’t get you a collar?

But this does?

Well. That makes Heaven seem a little less reasonable.

Now, this isn’t me saying Wukong should’ve been let off the hook for trying to take over an entire realm, nor be given an immediate pass for ransacking the heavens! He caused trouble, stole things, and made a mess of the whole place! And then he led a siege against it!

No, this is me saying that the writing has accidentally predisposed the audience to think of the Celestial Realm as sort of. Well. Biased to themselves. And that could work, if the show was willing to explore it!

Is a realm’s first duty to itself, regardless of how bad things are down below? It is just incredibly hard to maintain protection of a mortal realm when it’s so much wider and more expansive than their own? Do they question if deities should even be expected to involve themselves in the lives of mortals? Do they think it’s wrong to interfere in mortal affairs? Is there a vague non-interference clause to prevent both good and evil from tipping the scales? Do they literally just not have time to help more than by the bare minimum because their heavenly duties keep them busy?

That sort of exploration could easily lean to people sympathizing with them; and thus by extension the very monk who carries out their will by journeying with his disciples, but they don’t.

In general the Celestial Realm is entirely predisposed to their own (mostly) idyllic happenings, and every time we go there it’s populated with generic armored jobbers or copy-pasted background NPCs… when it’s not gapingly empty and bare.

When the Celestial Realm legitimately is incompetent, faceless, empty, and weak? It accidentally lends sympathy to the Azure Lion’s cause by kind of… proving him right?

So not only does the Brotherhood’s act of rebellion seem less bad by manner of nearly emptying the Celestial Realm of competent/sympathetic figures, it also seems almost justified. All we ever see these guys do is stuff their faces, lose their fights, stand around doing nothing, or fuck around in heavenly leisure while the realm below is inundated with demonic threats that they never interfere to help with!

If it hadn’t been for the “Actually Azure was delusional all along and also the Jade Emperor’s power isn’t made for him!!” twist then really, what exactly is so bad about someone saying “This realm has lounged in luxury long enough!” and then deciding to take it over to help the little guys who are getting eaten by the dozens?

(I mean, just take Azure and replace him with someone like MK, with the same justification and goal, and you can imagine a lot of the fanbase agreeing, right?)

(Even Nezha, much as I adore him, only gets involved when his realm is involved first, not out of the desire to protect innocent life!)

So, when you cut away almost all of the bad things that Sun Wukong has done, accidentally make the rebellion he was partaking in seem legitimately fair by making the target incompetent, strip away the methods by which Wukong establishes his character to Sanzang that justify his willingness to use a divine implement of torture, make two of his brothers worse in comparison without giving them equal methods of restraint?

Well. The intention might not have been for him to be abusive, and I think intentions are important to keep in mind!

This is clearly not meant to be a victim of abuse. Sun Wukong’s love for his master and brothers is played entirely straight. He’s supposed to be uplifted and bettered by his relationship with them. He adores and loves and misses them.

But it’s not wrong to feel iffy about the execution, either.

Because the writers did take out all the justification behind Wukong getting his circlet. They did have Sanzang snap the circlet onto Wukong before the monkey got a chance to make any mistakes, essentially stringing him from one punishment into the next without giving him a chance to see that the first punishment has changed or helped him grow. They did make his brothers far more violent and deadly than him and not address that.

And it’s not wrong to have a worse view of Tang Sanzang as a result of that! It’s not wrong to have a negative perspective of the monk when you look at his actions from an LMK perspective, because LMK!Sanzang is NOT the same as JTTW!Sanzang, and he simply does not have the same justifications behind his actions that the book version does.

I don’t think he was abusive, at least. But I also wouldn’t blame someone for having a negative view of him.

TLDR: Intentions good, execution somewhat iffy.

[things-arent-what-they-seem66]

Visiting Hours

@rius-cave Prison Au

-

Adam laid on his bed staring up at the top bunk, he thought prison before was fucking boring when he worked here but being behind bars when it wasn't meal time, recreation, or outdoor time was just dull.

Pretty much stuck in your cell 21 hours a day.

Lucifer had his face buried in his chest, a habit he had taken to doing on occasion mostly after visits with Charlie. He tried not to let it show how much it got to him. Both the chest to face and the fact that Lucifer was getting visits.

Adam had two sons with Eve, Abel and Cain. A lot of people poked fun because of their names but Eve named Cain and Adam always liked the name Abel. Lucifer had been shocked when he told him he had sons. And more so when he found out Adam had been married.

"You don't strike me as the marrying type." He had said and Adam didn't deny it, though Eve was special. High school sweethearts type deal and then she fell pregnant. How could he not marry her?

But in the end they didn't last....... And now she's dead and he's being charged with her murder.

Not ideal.

The sound of shoes tapping on the floor towards their cell made them pull a part a little. Lute came into view and gave Adam a tight smile.

Lute: Adam, you have a visitor.

Adam had been in jail for a few months now and no one had come to see him...... A part of him hoped it was his boys. His eyes flicked to Lucifer, he must have had a hint of surprise on his face. But the blonde just nudged him towards the door.

Adam got up and followed her, his heart thumping harder with each step he took as he got closer to the visiting area. When Adam walked through and sat down he felt a smile tug at his lips when he saw Abel on the other side of the glass.

Adam: Hey buddy.

Abel gave a small smile: Hey dad...... How's it going?

Adam: Sucks ass in here...... But how are you and your brother?

Abel shifted on his seat as he fidgeted with the sleeve of his sweater, he looked distressed and for good reason.

Abel: Cain isn't taking this very well...... He doesn't like me to see him upset but... He cries a lot. He misses you and m-mom. I miss you.

His voice wavered on the word "mom" like even saying the word physically hurts him, Adam guessed in a way it likely did.

Adam could see the tears pooling in those light brown eyes, on instinct he reached out to try and comfort his son but cursed when he hit his knuckles on the thick glass.

Adam: Fuck....... I miss you guys too. It's gonna be okay buddy.

Abel: How do you know that?

He didn't, but he also didn't want to upset him more than he was. Adam had put away many scum who killed their wife or husband and left their kids without parents. Luckily his boys are grown..... But still.

Adam: Because I didn't fucking do this. I cared for your mom.

Abel just nodded, swallowing thickly over the emotional lump in his throat.

Abel: I know you did...... Cain wanted to come and bust you out.

Adam snorted: Yeah I bet he did.

Abel wiped his eyes but that didn't do much to stop the tears from welling up again and falling down his cheeks.

Abel hiccupped, his voice tight: I-I-I don't know what to do dad......

Adam felt his eyes get misty at the sight, he placed his hand on the glass.

Adam: You guys have to stick together okay? You need to look out for each other, family is important.

He didn't want to add "because you'll be all you guys have" Adam didn't want to give up hope that he'll be acquitted of his charges..... But with his appeal denied it wasn't looking good.

Abel: T-this isn't fair! We lost mom and now we're losing you!? You didn't DO this, they just don't want to do their fucking job and find who really did this to her...... You couldn't have done it, we were together.

That night Eve was killed, Adam had the boys over and they were out spending time together. But apparently that's not a good enough alibi.

Which is fucking bullshit in Adam's opinion.

Adam: I know buddy........ I don't want you or your brother stressing over this okay? It's my problem.

Lute stepped up: Visiting time is up.

It's been an hour already? Well fuck.

Adam sighed: I love you Abel, give your brother a hug for me okay?

Abel sniffled sadly and wiped the tears off his cheeks and nodded: O-okay, love you too dad. Maybe next he can come?

Adam smiled: Yeah, I'd like that.

He watched his son go before letting his smile drop and getting up to go back to his cell. All this time in prison had been Hell, of course, all the inmates for the most part hated him and Adam could deal with that. He was made of tougher stuff than that.

But seeing his son so devastated? That was the hardest thing he's gone through in here. The gravity of the situation was just hitting him a little harder.

He could end up missing their lives, if they married, have kids, birthdays, holidays, special events, all of it. Adam will miss it all.

He'll be in prison for something he didn't do.

The idea made his heart clench and chest feel hollow. Each step forward felt like one closer to his death.

Entering his cell Adam didn't say anything, not when given an inquisitive look from Lucifer and not when the cell door clicked shut. He just went to his bunk bed and curled up and held onto the pillow.

Adam was trying so hard not to cry, he could feel the tightness in his chest and the tsunami of emotion behind his eyes.

But crying in prison is for bitches! And Adam Steven Kadmon is no bitch....... Or so he tries not to be.

His eyes fill with tears and Adam is doing his best to blink them away. He didn't look away from the corner of the wall he decided to fix his gaze on when he felt the bed dip a little and those familiar strong arms held him from behind. One arm around his waist and the other hand found its way to his hair lightly touching.

Lucifer: ......... You don't have to talk about it..... But I'm here.

Adam only nodded, it felt oddly nice. He blinked and a tear rolled down his cheek onto the pillow, the first of many.

Neither said anything, but it was clear to him now more than ever.

He needed to get the fuck out of prison.

His boys need him.

[anli-rambles]

Alright, since I'm seeing this discourse again on my dash, I'm gonna give my two cents even if no one asked.

I think the thing the "Haytham is a colonizer" crowd fundamentally gets wrong about this is that Haytham is a walking contradiction. That's the whole point of his character. His actions are in complete opposition to his actual core beliefs. Let me explain.

I'm not gonna excuse him working with racists and supporting an ideology that would essentially subjucate the entire human race in the name of arbitrary peace, because that's definitely colonizer mentality and that's inexcusable. Whether or not Haytham believes in the shit he says doesn't matter at the end of the day because the result is the same. That much is clear, and this isn't what I'm trying to justify.

The thing is, this same crowd will happily accuse those of us who like Haytham's character of actively sympathizing with colonizers. There are weirdos in every fandom so I'm not gonna deny that some may do that (in which case I do not claim them), but I can tell you that the majority of us don't. After lurking in this circle for over a year I can confidentally say that an overwhelming majority of us hate every Templar working for him except Shay, Weekes and Gist. The reason we like Haytham is, as I said before, because his core beliefs align with Assassin ideology way more than they do with Templar stuff.

The thing that bothers me the most about the "Haytham is a colonizer" crowd is that they have no interest in digging just a little deeper because if they did, they would see how glaringly obvious it is. Haytham hates the Templars. Everytime one of them does anything that follows Templar ideology, he deludes himself into believing they just "went Rogue" and executes them. He did it with Church. He did it with Braddock. He hated Washington's guts and wanted him dead when the guy embodied Templar ideals far more than anyone in his circle did. He did nothing to stop Ratonhnhaké:ton from killing Biddle even if he was on the Aquila with him at the time.

He had no interest in land expansion - in fact, his goal was to prevent it from happening. Unfortunately, he trusted Johnson with the task, and when the man decided mass execution was the way to go and subsequently got killed by Ratonhnhaké:ton, Haytham felt no empathy for him. In his journal, he even said Johnson asked for it by choosing mass murder of the Haudenosaunee chieftains because they refused to sell their land. His endorsement of Charles Lee is also a complete farce. He admits himself that Charles has very little chances of suplanting Washington because he's "too British" to appeal to the American settlers but that he'd rather work with him over Washington.

Hell, Haytham is the one who tells Ratonhnhaké:ton that Washington is a fraud who only cares about the freedom of white men specifically. He calls him out on it and he's furious. That's why he calls Ratonhnhaké:ton 'naive' - it's because Ratonhnhaké:ton fails to see how the people he works for give no shits about him and his people (and he isn't wrong on that, Ratonhnhaké:ton actually does believe supporting the Revolution will save his people up until then). He's not being patronizing here, his whole rant is in response to Ratonhnhaké:ton telling him Washington fights for freedom and that he was chosen by 'the people', when in reality 'the people' were a bunch of his buddies gathering in a room and going 'yup, Washington's our guy lads, case closed'. Ratonhnhaké:ton even admits that it's Haytham who made him realize this in the loading screen after the Sequence is over.

The whole reason Haytham doesn't defect from the Templar order is because the grooming/brainwashing runs too deep, and admitting that becoming a Templar wasn't his choice would be admitting that he failed to do the one thing his father wanted him to do - to choose for himself. So he deludes himself into believing that no, he did choose this way of life, even if he disagrees with pretty much everything the Templars stand for. And that's why he's easier to sympathize with.

I'll also add that I find it very ironic that Haytham critics aren't as willing to call Achilles out on his own bullshit, because what he does with Ratonhnhaké:ton is very reminiscent of what white people did to the First Nations irl. He barely knows this kid and already decides to use him as a surrogate son to process his grief through. He strips him of his Kanien'kehá:ka identity almost as soon as they meet. I'll never forget his "I'm not even gonna try and pronounce that" after Ratonhnhaké:ton tells him his name.

(Duncan is so right when he tells him later when they meet that he should use his real name. He has no reason to, he already immediately gets clocked as a Native whenever he meets people, Achilles' excuse doesn't work.)

I can't explain how pissed off I was when Ratonhnhaké:ton storms out of the homestead because he knows his people are in danger and Achilles has the absolute AUDACITY to tell him that "his struggles are the colonists' struggle". No the fuck it isn't ? How is threat of genocide and loss of their homeland ANY comparable to the British raising taxes on the colonies ? The worst part is that this mentality isn't just shared by Achilles. Samuel Adams also tells Ratonhnhaké:ton a similar thing when he claims the colonists are "no freer than the slaves". Excuse me ?

I've seen people call Adams out for it but Achilles always gets away with it scot-free when he's the one pushing Ratonhnhaké:ton to work with slave owners like Washington when all they want is to expand westward, burning down Native settlements along the way, and then has the audacity to claim it's in Ratonhnhaké:ton and his people's best interests to do so.

I'd take any Haytham critic a lot more seriously if they were also willing to call Achilles out for his undeniably racist behavior towards Ratonhnhaké:ton, but they don't. Because Achilles is supposed to be 'the good guy'. (And I don't mean to assume, but I think this lack of accountability for Achilles comes from a fundamental misunderstanding / ignorance of (and unfortunately indifference to) Native American issues, which we absolutely need to talk about more.)

What we're not gonna talk about, though, is how Achilles also owns a giant homestead on indigenous land that he lets other colonists settle on. Because of course it doesn't count.

Anyway. Those were my two cents. Do with it what you will.

PS. I think the comparison that was made with Edward also being a colonizer is flawed. While it was very similar at the beginning, with him leaving Wales to work as a privateer for the British Navy, he did a complete 180 later on and set out to work with indigenous people and fight for their freedom too. His mansion was also stolen from a colonizer (as opposed to it being built by him) and when he left the Caribbean to go back home, he gave it back to indigenous people instead of selling it to the highest bidder.

[sadhours]

the diner - part two

billy hargrove x fem!reader

cw: 18+ minors dni, stalking, murder, toxic relationship, trauma, hallucinations, flayed!billy, peeping Tom, horror

He survived. Somehow— someway. Billy survived. Took care of what he should have so long ago. But that monster lingers, still alive within him.

You’re an innocent girl who works next door to him and he can’t help himself. Could you help him or is he too sick?

part one

read on ao3

Billy is his name. It’s embroidered on his coveralls. He’s caught your attention but there’s something very off about him. You’ve grown up here. People don’t move here but he did. And you can’t figure out why. But there has to be a reason. He’s trying not to be found, he’s got to be escaping something. The guy looks like he’s hiding. No one can offer much information about him. The folks who have talked to him can’t pull any from him.

It seems as if he keeps to himself. He shows up at places you go but he’s always alone and doesn’t really talk to anyone. Like, okay, the bar. There’s one bar in this town and you’ve seen him there several times. While you’re chitchatting with locals, he’s sat at the bar. Smokes and smokes and downs beers and shots but he doesn’t fucking talk. You try hard not to watch him but you look. And he’s always staring at the bar, mess of blonde curls hiding his face. His hair is long, choppy layers but it’s past his shoulders and kind of big. It’s confusing because… the dudes handsome. Has a real pretty face though he always looks exhausted— like he’s seen horrific things. You’ve begged the bartender, Lacey, to tell you the conversations they’ve had but she insists he doesn’t talk much. She has told you that he comes in a lot. And even those nights when it’s just been him and her alone in the bar, he’s quiet. But he plays music on the jukebox. You asked what he plays and it tells you something but nothing of substance. The guy likes his hair metal and Hendrix.

And one time she asked him to kill a spider. But he didn’t. He laid out his hand, let the spider crawl onto his fingers and carried it outside. You like that story because you think it gives you insight into the stranger. Tells you something he or no one else can’t.

The owner of Route One Garage is a close friend. Your dad’s buddy, named Pete. He comes into the diner daily but he can’t give you anymore information. Tells you only the things everyone knows. That he’s from California and he’s really good with cars. Pete says he’s quiet, keeps to himself and that he doesn’t talk about himself— ever. Offers opinions about superficial stuff. He likes Marlboro Reds and Ole’ Colonial beer. Says he used to have a Camaro but it was wrecked in an accident. Won’t give any details of the accident.

Other than that, Manuel Gomez says he frequents his restaurant— that he loves Mexican food, and asks for the extra spicy stuff. Manuel says he even knows some Spanish, but if he’s from Southern California, that makes sense and isn’t really helpful in getting to know the stranger. And you’re really trying not to obsess over it, but he just has you so incredibly curious. You wonder if he’s lonely. You are and this own town is like family.

He comes in kind of early. 10 pm instead of after midnight. Something tells you to dig deep. So when he sits, lights his cigarette and stares down at the table, you slip into the booth across from him. You grab the menu and open it, purse your lips as you look through it and as you glance up at him, he looks uncomfortable.

Billy asks you, “What are you doing?”

“I’m trying to decide what you’re gonna eat today,” you answer with a shrug but you’re determined to learn more about him. Even if it’s through food. “You like sandwiches?”

“Does anyone not like sandwiches?” he replies, but he’s fidgeting— like he’s uncomfortable.

You nod and meet his eyeline, “Yeah. Some dudes get offended when I suggest sandwiches.”

“How is that possible? It’s like, the least offensive food.”

“I don’t like eggs,” you shrug, “Everyone has preferences.”

Billy’s face looks cute. Looking at you with his brows knit, bright blue eyes all confused. “You don’t like eggs? Why?”

“They’re bouncy and they stink,” you offer easily. You’ve despised them your whole life.

“Your job must be real difficult if you don’t like the smell of eggs,” he responds and he still doesn’t exactly meet your eyes.

You make a face as you flip the page of the menu, “You’ve got no idea. If they’re not drowned in cheese, I have to try really hard not to gag.”

“My dad— I can’t eat them scrabbled because that’s the only thing he knew how to cook.”

Aha. Information. He has a family. But he said knew not knows. Maybe his dad is dead.

“Noted, I don’t know if over easy is any better though,” you tell him as you scan the menu. “Our pot roast is pretty good.”

“It’s the morning. Do people usually eat pot roast for breakfast?”

That’s a good point.

“Do you like pancakes?” you ask, then.

Billy shrugs, “Yeah, I mean they’re fine but they’re not healthy.”

“Okay, so you’re health conscious but you chain smoke cigarettes,” you laugh softly. “Maybe some oatmeal and yogurt?”

He sighs, snatches the menu from you and closes it. “How about you get me the breakfast I always get? And how about you don’t fucking question it?”

The shift is brutal and you’re suddenly really embarrassed about sliding into the booth and trying to get to know him. You slide out without another word and put in his order. Fill his coffee cup without a word. Serve him his breakfast and don’t say a single thing to him. You’ve learned from this— learned his a fucking asshole.

You’re relieved when he leaves. Recount the story to your coworkers but they excuse him.

“Yeah,” Becky scoffs, “The guy’s a fucking weirdo. Why are you trying to talk to him?”

“He comes in literally every time I work,” you argue, “Why wouldn’t I try to like, talk to him?”

Becky’s face grimaces, “You don’t think he’s a weirdo? He’s dirty and he doesn’t make eye contact. Besides… I think he’s pretty creepy.”

Creepy isn’t a way you’d describe him. And based off what Becky says next, you think she could read your face.

“He’s moved here suddenly, doesn’t have any friends— like seriously, he doesn’t talk to anyone. He works in that place and then what? He’s probably a serial killer or something,” Becky’s face is contorted in disgust.

You chew on your bottom lip, “I think he’s kind of cute…”

“They thought Ted Bundy was hot,” Becky argues, “Seriously. He’s not hideous but he’s a weirdo. He’s definitely got skeletons in his closet— literally.”

—

That night, you go to the bar. You have tomorrow off so it’s routine. You meet your friends there. And like clockwork, Billy walks in about thirty minutes after you get there. You can feel his eyes on you and you think maybe he’s still upset about earlier today. So after a round of shots, you approach him.

“I’m sorry about earlier. That was weird,” you rush out, feeling the heat from the tequila, “I don’t usually sit with patrons and pry like that— but, like, this is a small ass town and we don’t have people move here. I know everyone here, so I was just trying to get to know you.”

His response is cold, “You don’t wanna know me.”

And it’s so far from reality. But it feels like a warning. You look down and see how his wrists have these deep scars. Purple and red rough skin, wrapped around the limbs. He notices, pulls down the sleeves of his denim jacket to hide them.

Snarls his teeth and tells you, “Get lost.”

You wanna push him off the barstool, tell him he’s the one who needs to get lost. But you don’t. You swallow the lump in your throat and retreat. Get back to your friends and try to the into the pretty, blonde stranger with a bad fucking additude but you feel his eyes on you. And you do your best to ignore the dreadful feeling that sits in your stomach, try not to recognize it as fear. It feels charged suddenly and you’re scared. So you drink, down another shot or two until it fizzles out. Play some pool with your friends.

As the night goes on, one by one your friends leave until it’s just you and Billy and Lacey. But he doesn’t talk to you. You converse with Lacey for a while until you get sleepy. After saying goodbye, you stumble to your car and can’t help but feeling like you’re being followed. Ignoring it, you make your way home. Lock your doors when you get inside and bypass the bathroom, too tired and go to your bedroom. You lay down for a beat, eyes glued to your window. That feeling— being watched is heavy on you. And you get up, rush to the window and pull up the blinds. Cup your hands on the glass as you peer through. See the eyes watching you, then the person runs. The harder you look, the more you can make out the blonde curls.

—

Billy doesn’t come into the diner. Which you’re glad. The day after you were certain you’d seen him peeking into your window, you’d sat on the couch. Unable to sleep. Held yourself in fear, panicked as you kept checking all the windows. And you know you should tell someone but for some reason, you don’t.

As you work, you keep looking towards the rundown mechanic shop next door. Some part of you expects him to be standing at the big window, staring back at you. But he doesn’t.

You’re confused and scared. You decide it’s best to stay at your parents house for the next two weeks. But you lie to them, just say there’s an issue with your plumbing. And when Billy doesn’t come into the dinner for those two weeks, you figure it’s fine to return home.

[the-badger-mole]

It's Time For Second...second....SECOND DATE UPDATE!!!!

{Transcript of Second Date Update from Tho and Due in the morning. Originally aired 1-/--/---

Good morning, RC! Thank you for tuning into Tho and Due in the Morning! I'm your host Tho.

And I'm Due! And it's time for Second Date Update! Today's first guest is Aang. Aang recently went on a date with a young lady that he says went really great, bu~ut he hasn't had any luck setting up a second date. {cue sad Aww! sound effect}

That's right. This situation is a bit different though. Usually on these calls, the first date is still the "getting to know you" phase for our couples, but Aang says that he and this girl had been friends for a while and actually knew each other pretty well before their first date. We're going to let him tell his story. Aang?

Thanks, guys. Yeah, Katara and I have been friends for about ten years now. We met when we were in high school, and I've been in love with her since the beginning. I had been trying for years to get her to go out with me, and she finally said yes!

Congrats! Tell us a bit about the date. Did something go wrong? Did she say anything to make you think she was upset at the end?

No! The date was amazing! I pulled out all the stops. We went to a nice restaurant, then a walk by the water, and dessert at this cafe that makes the best custard tarts in the city. We even kissed! But when I tried to make a second date, she said she was busy. I tried to talk to her when we were hanging out at our friend's house, and she seemed weirdly distant. I didn't know how to get her to talk to me, so I reached out to you guys.

Aw! Well, let's get Katara on the phone and see if we can't sort this out for you, alright, buddy?

{phone rings. rings. rings. ri-}

Hello?

Hi, is this Katara {last name redacted}?

Um...yeah? Who is this?

This is Tho from Tho and Due in the Morning on ZK100.

O-kay? What's this about?

You're on the air live with us on our radio show!

Radio show? Those are still a thing?

{Due laughs awkwardly}

Yeah, we're a hold over from the age of the dinosaurs. Anyway, you're on a segment we call the Second Date Update. We're calling you because we were contacted by a friend of yours. Did you go on a date with Aang a few weeks ago?

Yeah, I did go out with him once, like two months ago. What about it?

Well, Aang had a great time on that date, and he'd like to take you out again. We just wanted to know if you'd be interested.

No.

Oh, ouch! That was quick. Mind if we ask what happened? Aang said it was a lovely night.

{Tho laughs at Due}

Lovely night? Who are you? King Kuei?

Whatever man. So, Katara, did something happen that night that made you not want to go out with Aang again? From what he tells us, you two were already friends, so you like something about him, right?

He's...fine. Yeah, we're friends, but I didn't have as good a time that night as he seems to have had.

Oh? Do tell! He made it sound like a nice time. Dinner, a nice walk and then dessert. A kiss at the end of the night...

Ha! Okay, so the basics are right, we had dinner at this vegan spot in midtown-

Oof! Vegan! I see why you didn't want a second date.

What? No, no, that wasn't the problem. I'm fine with eating vegan sometimes, and it was a nice restaurant. But I made the mistake of telling him how much I liked my meal, and he launched into this long, preachy diatribe about the virtues of eating plant based, and how awful it was to eat meat. He stopped short of outright calling me a murderer, but only just. Then after dinner, he insisted he on what he called a short walk to a cafe for dessert. It was a mile through the most secluded part of Shori Park- you know, where they had that string of muggings over the summer? And I was in heels. I wanted to turn back and drive, but Aang kept insisting it wasn't much farther. I didn't feel safe walking back on my own, so I kept going. My feet were killing me and my shoes were ruined by the time we got to the cafe.

Yikes! That does not sound like the evening Aang described.

Oh, but there's more! It turns out Aang's a regular at this particular cafe, and he's very popular there. Very popular. He flirted with the cashier for like ten minutes. Then when he finally came back to our table with our orders, we kept being interrupted by all these girls who just had to ask him about random things or ask him to show them his marble trick- which by the way, isn't that interesting. I got a cab on Yip Yip, and it when it finally came, Aang was shocked to hear that I didn't want to walk back through the park to his car. He insisted on walking me out, and before I got in the car, he did kiss me. He smashed my lip into my teeth. I thought for sure I'd be bleeding.

Ooo...ouch!

Woah...yeah. I-I guess I can understand why he hasn't heard from you about a second date. But he'd been trying to get a date with you for a while, right?

No. I knew he had a crush on me at one point, but he never made a move. Then he suddenly asked me out. I had broken up with my ex a few months earlier, and Aang was the complete opposite of him. I thought why not give it a try with him.

Well, maybe he was nervous.

Trust me, if you had seen him in that cafe playing up for his crowd of admirers, nervous is the last word you'd use to describe him.

Wow... That sounds like a rough night. We actually have Aang on the other line. Would you mind if we brought him into the conversation?

{Katara heaves a heavy sigh}

I guess...

Alright. Go on Aang.

Hey Katara...

Hi, Aang.

I heard what you said about that night. I didn't realize you'd had such a bad time.

Well, maybe if you had let me get a word in edgewise.

I'm sorry I took you to a vegan restaurant. But you know I'm an ethical-

Ethical vegan. Yes. I know. I didn't have a problem with the restaurant. I had a problem with being browbeaten about eating meat. I respect the fact that you don't eat meat. You need to respect the fact I do.

That's like asking me to respect the fact that some people murder.

I can't have this argument with you again, Aang. I'm hanging up.

Wait! Please don't! I'm sorry, Katara. Can't we just talk this out?

There's not that much to talk about, Aang. Listen, you're a nice guy, but I don't feel that way about you.

How do you know after one date? I screwed up. I admit it, but I promise I'll do better next time.

Katara, we usually ask if you'd like to go on a second date. It would be completely paid for by the station. We'll even spring for a chauffeur so you don't have to worry about walking through sketchy areas at night.

No thank you.

Please, Katara! Give me one good reason you won't give me just one more chance.

I don't want to.

That's not a reason.

Okay, fine. You're self-involved to the point that you're boring. And you don't pay attention to anything I say. I've known you for almost ten years, and you brought me panda lilies for our date.

Those are very expensive flowers!

That I'm allergic to! Which you should know. You were there the first time I got hives from them.

No way!

Aaaahahahahaha! Aang! Buddy....!

I'm sorry! I forgot. I got nervous, and I wanted to impress you.

We've been friends for years. What made you think you had to put on some big production for me?

I-I just...

Yeah, great. Let it go, Aang. We gave it a shot, and it didn't work out.

That's not fair! You can't just throw away any chance of us working because of one awkward date. I've been waiting for years for this. It can't be over already, just like that.

I'm not arguing with you about this.

Wait, wait, wait! Come on, Katara! You have to give me another chance. We're supposed to be together!

Based on what?

On...well, haven't I been a good friend to you?

I don't know man...you didn't know she was allergic to panda lilies

Just because we're friends doesn't mean we're supposed to date.

I don't want to date you! I want to marry you! You-you're my Forever Girl.

{Tho, Due and Katara are all silent}

You can't be serious. I'm hanging up now.

If you hang up, our friendship is over.

Wow...okay. I didn't want to tell you this over the radio, because I thought it would hurt your feelings, but now I don't care. I'm dating Zuko now.

What?

Who's Zuko?

You can't be dating Zuko. You hate him!

I don't hate him. I've been friends with him for almost as long as I've been friends with you. We've been going out for a few weeks, and we just made it official a couple days ago. Even if I did want a second date with you, I don't think he'd appreciate me going out with another man.

Don't do this Katara! He's all wrong for you!

Good-bye, Aang.

Well, I think we lost Katara. Sorry about how that ended there, buddy.

There's plenty other girls. What about that cashier you were flirting with? In the middle of your date...

{Aang hangs up. Tho tries and fails to smother his laughter}

Well, that's all the time we have for today. Thanks for joining us on ZK100. Republic City's number one station for today's top hits, and the home of Second Date Update.

[bitterkarella]

Midnight Pals: Shaver Mystery

Ray Palmer: listen midnight society i got a crazy story you gotta hear! Palmer: i found this guy, Richard shaver Palmer: he's got a story you wouldn't believe Palmer: but every word of it is the god's honest truth! Palmer: if i'm lying, may lightening strike me down!

Palmer: go ahead Richard, tell them what you told me Richard Shaver: there's an underground civilization of lemurians Shaver: living in tunnels under the comet ping pong pizza restaurant Palmer: big if true!

Shaver: after the lemurians abandoned these tunnels, people moved in Shaver: but they tried using the lemurians' abandoned death rays Shaver: but they didn't realize that if you don't change the filters on the death rays, it'll turn them into deros Barker: oh yeah you gotta change the filters on those death rays Barker: i mean who doesn't do that Poe: clive you really shouldn't make fun of him Poe: i don't think that's sporting

Shaver: anyway by misusing the death rays, it turned them all into deros Shaver: which stands for detrimental energy robot Barker: oh yeah of course it does Barker: that would have been my guess Poe: clive

Shaver: the deros can use their death rays to spy on your thoughts and control your mind Poe: ray i don't think this man is well Poe: i think you might be exploiting him Palmer: what? never! Palmer: he's fit as a fiddle! Shaver: also every day has within it four simultaneously occurring days

Palmer: wow! can you believe that's all true? Poe: ray, i don't think that's true Palmer: not true? look here buddy Palmer: its printed on the pages of Amazing Stories Palmer: all the news thats fit to print!

August Derleth: we're pals aren't we howard? bestest pals? HP Lovecraft: [sweats] Derleth: august and howard, that's what people call us! Derleth: cuz they're so used to seeing us together Derleth: we're practically inseperable!

Barker: boy you two really are thick as thieves huh Lovecraft: [sweats] Barker: august and howard huh Derleth: you can call us augie and Howie Barker: i'm not gonna do that

Palmer: in fact, i have a little something right here Palmer: linking the shaver mystery to the Cthulhu mythos Derleth: i'll kill you Derleth: i swear to god no one will ever find your body Palmer: Derleth: i will obliterate you

Palmer: whoa whoa whoa just take it easy there pal Palmer: i'm just tryin' to make a buck here, can't blame a guy for makin' a livin' can ya? Derleth: i will murder you Derleth: i will murder you dead Palmer: [sweats] ha ha whoa by is it getting hot in here? Palmer: [tugging collar] is anyone else getting hot in here?

Palmer: i'm just saying people love thinking spooky stuff is real Palmer: maybe lovecraft thought Cthulhu was real Palmer: we could make a lot more money if he did Derleth: hey mary let me see your knife Shelley: here ya go

Poe: mary don't give him your knife Shelley: it's my knife edgar i can do what i want Poe: why do you want to see Mary's knife Derleth: no reason i just want to see it Shelley: good enough for me

Palmer: you know what, i'm just gonna see myself out Poe: mary don't give him your knife Derleth: GIVE ME THE KNIFE!

[solar-wing]

⚣ Captor & Captive 🦍

Check out Parts One💉 & Two🔥!

⚣🦍 A/N → The final installment! Fair warning. For those who read the original version, this one is going to be completely different. With my updating and revising the previous parts, this is the ending I originally pictured but decided to not go with at first so I hope you all enjoy it. As mentioned in the last part, the full NSFW version will be posted to Patreon. WARNINGS: MALE INTERSEX READER. Canon-Typical Violence. Bondage & Gagging. Manhandling/Rough Treatment. Emotional Feelings. Some Comfort&Fluff Vibes, etc! All NSFW warnings will be on the full version.

⚣🦍 Summary → The moment has arrived. Conner's finally got you where he wants you and is ready to tear you apart from the inside (literally). However, a timely arrival from your friends could offer itself as a last chance to escape his grasp before he is able to claim his prize. Are your teammates up to the challenge though with the Kryptonian's increased strength and full powers?

⚣🦍 Words → 10.2K

REBLOGS and replies are greatly appreciated, please! 💛

⚣ Full Version 🦍

⚣ ENJOY 🦍

Today was really not your day.

How you ended up in this situation? No one knows, but what or who could you have possibly angered to have something like this happen to you? No punishment in the world you imagined could be as bad as that time you got in trouble for acting out in school and they called your dad.

He could be a frightening man when he wanted to be.

But nope, this outweighed that by so much. And the day started out normal as usual.

Well, as normal as possible for a young superhero with pyrokinesis who was part of an elite team of other young superheroes and vigilantes.

Usual shit, you know?

You woke up, got out of bed, and ate breakfast with your dad before running (flying) off to your university. Classes were boring, you and your buddies acted like goofy idiots all day, and you burned a few kids on the ass for being assholes to other students. 

At the end of the school day, you made up an excuse of why you couldn’t hang out with your friends before rushing off to the abandoned photo booth/zeta gateway in an alleyway of your city to meet up with your team. The second you got there, Batman called you all into the mission room to give details of Professor Ivo’s newest schemes before sending you all off in the bioship to discover what he was up to.

Arriving at the abandoned warehouse where Ivo was sighted, it wasn’t long before things had gone from calm to chaotic. The dusty and dirty building was filled with a bunch of brand new boxes that contained an army of laughing MONQI robots, Ivo’s annoying little robotic henchmen.

It was a trap, one you realized a little too late when you got nabbed by a couple of the laughing androids. Superboy came to your rescue only for you to realize the set-up was for him when he got injected with a purple serum. After you got your bearings, you managed to trap Ivo and take out the last androids, but Conner was out clean, and you had no idea what they had done to him. 

Red Tornado was able to deduce what the mysterious liquid was when Conner woke up after you all returned to Mount Justice and he began acting very aggressive and animalistic towards you. Let’s just say your scent was ‘desirable’ to him, and he was very keen on keeping it and you to him as long as possible along with other things. Details aren’t needed, but from many of his actions, the wind-controlling android figured the Kryptonian was injected with a hormone-boosting solution.

Its intended use was for him to turn into an angry, instinct-driven savage and kill you and your friends. Thankfully, you knocked the vial out of him before it could be fully administered, but his instincts were still amplified. Only instead of a murderous beast, he became the superhero version of a horny and aggressive brute dead set on fucking you stupid.

Thankfully, your friends and mentors intervened and managed to get you away from ‘Caveman Conner,’ as you dubbed this new persona. However, he did not make it easy for them at all as apparently, that serum made him extremely possessive as well, leading to him holding you captive on his shoulder like a potato sack while fighting your friends and mentors like they were world-class villains for attempting to get you away from him. 

Whether that was a Conner trait before the injection or one that was created after was something you didn’t think about though, considering he acted nothing like this when he was with M’Gann.

This entire ordeal led you to discover Batman’s apparent insurance policy for the Kryptonian, in case he or Superman were to ever go rogue. It made you wonder if the superhero had backup plans like that for all the other members of the league, your meta and magical teammates, or even you.

As far as you knew, there wasn’t anything that could counter your powers as long as you weren’t extremely cold. And it wasn’t like there was a member in the Justice League who shared similar abilities to you that Batman could test something out on. But, of course, as cruel fate would have it, the Dark Knight did indeed have an insurance policy for you which Conner had discovered and taken advantage of after shutting off the electricity and luring you to the garage hangar when you and he were alone after everyone had left out.

With the power and communications off in the Cave, your powers nullified and the dark-haired boy’s own amped up since he apparently unlocked his full Kryptonian abilities due to the effects of the serum, you were trapped inside, defenseless, and at his mercy.

Not only had he forced you back into the Cave after you almost escaped, but he smashed the panel that controlled the garage hangar door rendering it completely useless before proceeding to handcuff and gag you while giving a pre-show of his intended plans.

Now, you watched in anxious anticipation as the Kryptonian carried you down to the hall to wherever with plans to ruin your body for his own carnal pleasure.

Yep, normal shit.

Okay, you knew where you went wrong now; you got out of bed.

The tight pressure and soreness in your abdomen had become like a throbbing sensation with every step Conner took that would slightly cause a repeating push against your waist from your position on his shoulder. You did your best to keep your body upright to avoid the very familiar feeling of blood rushing to your head and swimming around in your ears, but it seemed Superboy was taking his good ole time and your upper body strength was getting weaker and weaker.

You also tried to keep your mind off the ache and tingles running up and down your arms as they rested against your back with the metal of the cuffs weighing them down. The Kryptonian chuckles at your futile efforts to escape his hold, with your weak squirming and struggling as he continued fondling the soft flesh between your legs with the same hand holding your thighs against his chest.

He loved the sounds of your muffled whines and cries, feeling like the most powerful person in the world as you were virtually helpless and at his mercy. You would not enjoy the boost to his ego that was guaranteed to happen, especially after his little preview of your night in the garage hangar which you prayed to whatever deity watching that the cameras throughout the base were powered down to and didn’t catch any of that on tape.

The last thing you needed was your friends reviewing the footage and seeing you get violently fingered against the wall and splashing a mess all over the floor.

Speaking of which…

WHERE THE HELL WERE THEY?

Kal, M’Gann, and Zatanna had left on a walk around Happy Harbor almost 20 minutes before you decided to pack your things and head out. Your fight with Conner, including his little pleasurable fun with you had to also have been at least 20 minutes itself. So, if you were doing the math right, it’d been almost a little over an hour since they had left. What, did they decide to make a stop in Gotham too? 

What the hell were they doing and why weren’t they back yet?!

Who were you even kidding though? Conner virtually made sure there was no way to get back inside the base without him knowing about it. And of course, if they did manage to make it inside, he’d be alerted well in advance and have time to do whatever with you before going to deal with him. 

Of course, you could fight or melt your way out, but with this stupid cooling bracelet on your arm, that wasn’t happening either. You were trapped inside Mount Justice and the only way you were leaving was if the Kryptonian allowed you to.

Why was that low-key kind of hot though?

Despite how embarrassing this whole ordeal felt, you couldn’t deny how erotic all of this was. If it wasn’t for the emotional mess this would eventually lead to, you would have played the role of the innocent and helpless virgin, ahem, victim from the beginning, no questions asked.

His possessive attitude, treating you like the most valuable piece of treasure in the world and not wanting anyone else to have it. The aggression and dominance in how he handled not just those who dared try and take you from him, but how he dealt with you and your ‘bratty’ behavior.

What’s that purring sound?

Suddenly, Conner came to a stop. You tried your best to turn and see where you were before everything moved in a fast blur as the dark-haired boy turned to look at the two companions that were following behind.

“Stay.” He commanded in a gruff tone.

Wolf nodded at your captor, before planting himself right next to the door you were facing, Sphere going to the other side of it. The Kryptonian entered the room shortly after.

It was dimly lit by the red emergency lights of the Cave, and as the door shut behind you two, it became even harder to tell where you were. However, when you saw a few piles of clothes, some workout equipment, and a bin of tools in different areas, you quickly found the answer: Conner’s bedroom.

Well, at least he was considerate in choosing a more private place this time to have his way with you.

A part of you was excited at the thought of getting to have sex with your crush. But, the other side where logic and rationality were still speaking kept you apprehensive. When all was said and done and Conner (hopefully) came back to his senses, where would you and him stand?

You didn’t want to risk losing your friendship with the Kryptonian if it turned out he didn’t harbor any romantic feelings for you and this was some sort of anomaly. How could you both even work on the same team together if there was an awkward air between the two of you?

He walked across the room before you felt yourself being nudged up, one of his arms coming up to your back as he gently lifted you off his shoulder and deposited you onto his bed, a slightly relieved feeling running through you from the release of pressure on your abdomen. It was a surprising change of pace from the rough antics you were used to.

Conner brought his face directly above yours, staring into your own pupils with an expression that made you feel as if you were in trouble, which considering the previous events, you probably were.

What you didn’t expect was for his hand to rub down the side of your face in a soft caress, his calloused fingers somehow feeling soft to the touch. His eyes slowly traveled across your face, seemingly taking in every detail they could while you definitely did not snuggle your face into his hand.

You know what, you could have this moment. Just for a little bit.

Your soft whimpers were the only sound that was heard as the Kryptonian stared at your shiny, wet eyes before he leaned back up while his hands moved down to the front of his pants.

This was it.

The moment you fought so hard to avoid had finally come. You couldn’t deny the many parts of you that felt excited, the anticipation at knowing you were about to get something you’ve wanted for so long. Well, a part of something at least.

You could recall times when Conner and M’Gann were still dating and you’d feel jealous at the sight of her lips upon his. The Martian getting to touch and caress the Kryptonian in ways you thought you would never be able to. It was a bittersweet thought.

In the end, you did get to have something she may have never had (at least to your knowledge), but at what cost? When all was said and done, and the serum was fully out of Conner’s system, who said he would still see you the way he does now?

He could end up resenting you for tempting him with your desirable scent. Of course, that would in no way be your fault, but it was still a possibility. 

Just as much as it was possible that he actually may feel some sort of feelings for you. It would explain why he was attracted to you out of everyone else, especially M’Gann, and why he’d act so aggressively when anyone else would try to take you away from him.

It was a nice thought, but in your mind, it was highly unlikely.

Just as he was about to unzip his pants, the sound of mechanical whirring and things powering on hit your eardrums. Your sight was blinded for a quick moment by the sudden return of the ceiling lights, illuminating the room where you could spot more details and items you couldn’t before.

‘Someone turned the power back on.”

It would seem Conner had the same realization given the enraged look on his face as he looked around the room. He hopped off the bed, you watching his tensed muscular back as he marched to the door before yanking it open and leaning out. He stood there for a few seconds before turning around, the look in his eyes even more irate as he stomped his way back over to the bed which could mean a lot of things, but more than likely one.

Your friends had returned.

The realization brought immediate relief to your body, but you didn’t have much time to celebrate as the Kryptonian lifted you into his arms in a bridal hold. You fought back as hard as you could with a renewed fight and energy.

Your goal wasn’t necessarily to escape this time (though it was still your end objective), but more so to create as much noise and commotion as possible to alert your friends to your location. And though he’d probably never admit it, the Kryptonian had a much harder time holding you still as he walked you over to his closet which was surprisingly tidy, unlike the rest of his room.

He had to keep your legs still with you kicking wildly while placing you gently on the ground in the closet. When you were fully inside, he gave you a stern look. His way of telling you to be quiet or else.

You had no plans to adhere to that warning. The second he closed the door, you swung your body around as best as you could and started kicking your legs against the door only to almost get singed by the red blast of the Kryptonian’s heat vision.

He was searing the door shut like he did with the garage hangar door to keep you trapped inside, and more importantly, keep anyone but him out.

You’d almost forgotten about his upgrade in power with the serum unlocking his full Kryptonian abilities. Now, not only did he have super strength and invisibility, but he could fly, had full x-ray and heat vision, and inhuman speed.

Your friends had no idea what they were about to walk into. Even though you held your own against Conner for the most part, it was easier to try to escape than fight him head-on, and that was when he just had his normal abilities. It’d be almost suicide to try and fight him if he was fully equipped, which he was in more ways than one…

Hey! No dirty thoughts!

You could hear him zapping his bedroom door closed, creating two fortified barriers in the event someone managed to figure out where you were. Even if you kept kicking and knocking yourself against the wall, all you’d do is manage to hurt yourself. 

The only one who’d be able to hear you was Conner with his super-hearing which you’d bet money was enhanced as well from the serum.

Trapped once again and left in darkness, the only hope you now had was that your friends could subdue Superboy long enough for them to find and free you. Potentially, with all four of you, there could be a good chance of taking him down or if need be, calling Batman to find out where his supply of Kryptonite was.

‘C’mon guys, don’t fail me now…”

“Do I even want to know what that mess on the floor is?” Zatanna asked, pointing to the wet ‘spill’ on the floor and pieces of clothing scattered near the wall.

“Probably not. What I want to know is why the door panel was not only smashed to bits but the entire door welded shut and the power shut off.” Kal said while inspecting the crumpled piece of machinery.

“Who do you think could’ve done this?” M’Gann wondered.

“I have my suspicions, but we won’t know until we check the medical wing or at least find Y/N if he’s still here.”

“I’ll go check the mission room and see if the Zeta Tube logs show any transports to his city.” The Martian volunteered.

Kal instructed her to go in stealth, just in case whoever did this was still here and watching them. He and Zatanna started searching the different halls and rooms, hoping to find something, anything that could help them figure out where their friends were and what had happened.

When they reached the medical wing, Kal's suspicions were confirmed the second they spotted the empty medical bed.

“Great, so if this was Superboy’s doing and he still has the serum affecting his mind, there’s no telling where he could be.”

“What if he followed Y/N home? Red Tornado said Conner was focused on…mating with Y/N. If he left before or right as he was waking up, he could’ve followed after him.” Zatanna said, a visible disgust coming over her face at the mention of the mating part.

“Then, why was the door blocked and the power off? He couldn’t use the Zeta Tube if the power was down. And would he even know how? Red Tornado said Conner's mental thinking was reduced to that of a primate. I’m not sure how much they knew about computers and gateway technology back then.”

“Guys!”

The two turned around to see M’Gann flying up to them with a distressed look while holding something in her hand. She was breathing hard while checking her surroundings before she looked at her two teammates and whispered something they couldn’t hear.

“Huh? Say that again.”

She huffed before checking behind herself. When whatever she was checking for was clear, she turned back and leaned closer, this time speaking a little louder but not loud enough for them to understand.

“I’m sorry, we still can’t hear you.”

The Martian girl rolled her eyes before they went wide with realization.

‘CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?!’

Kal and Zatanna covered their ears in shock before giving an annoyed look to the green martian, “Yes, we can hear you, which ow, by the way.” Zatanna retorted.

‘Good. Sorry, and don’t speak out loud! He can probably hear us. Use the mental link.’ She instructed.

‘What are you talking about? Who can hear us?’ The sorceress asked, now also using the mental link as well.

‘Conner! He’s still here, and so is Y/N. When I went to the mission room, I checked the gateway logs and found the last transport going out to Y/N’s home city failed due to a power outage. Plus, his backpack was sitting next to the console.’

Kal and Zatanna's eyes both went wide as they looked at each other with realization.

‘Okay, kind of a smart move on his part. What better way to keep your captive from escaping than to lock them in an indestructible powered-down fortress?’ Zatanna said before something down the hall caught her eyes.

‘Indeed, a bit too smart for my comfort level. But, then why would Y/N seal the doors shut? He’s the only one who could weld it to the wall and floors like that.” Kal pointed out.

‘Guys…’

‘Maybe Y/N managed to escape and melted the doors to keep Conner from escaping.’ M’Gann suggested.

“Um, guys…”

‘Possible, but why was the panel smashed and why didn’t he come to find us?”

‘Guys! All legitimate concerns, I agree. But, we’ve got bigger problems!’ Zatanna shouted over the mind link before pointing towards the entrance to a very shirtless, very pissed-off Kryptonian.

They barely had time to react when Conner charged at them. He swung a punch aiming for Aqualad but only managed to hit the ground before they each ducked out of the way.

‘M’Gann, try and establish contact with Y/N now!’ Kal commanded while pulling out his water bearers to create twin swords.

‘Y/N? Can you hear me? Y/N, this is M’Gann!’

Not even a second later, they heard your voice screaming into the link, ‘CONNER HAS HIS FULL KRYPTONIAN POWERS!’

It prompted them to look up just in time to see Conner shooting his heat vision at them. Zatanna muttered a defensive spell that blocked the crimson beams from hitting Kaldur just in time while they turned and decided to run back towards the garage hangar.

‘Thanks for the warning,’ Zatanna said in the link.

‘No problem. Conner locked me in the closet in his bedroom and he used his heat vision to sear both the doors shut.’

‘That won’t be an issue for me. I can use the teleportation spell I used to get us inside.’

‘Alright then. Zatanna, you go and free Y/N. M’Gann and I will do our best to hold Conner off as long as we can.’ Kal said just as they reached the hangar. They heard a shattering sound and an angry scream, meaning Conner broke through the shield. Zatanna muttered a spell before she blinked out of sight with a small shimmer of light. 

Just as she disappeared, Conner came flying around the corner looking more angry than before. Things were about to get serious.

The sorcerer appeared right in the middle of Conner’s bedroom, taking a moment to collect herself before she looked around the messy room.

“Ugh, boys…” She muttered before rushing toward the closet. “Y/N, are you in there?” She asked.

All she heard was muffled sounds and screams in response. She uttered another spell that would force the doors to fling open while hearing your warning screams in her head all too late before she got the shock of her life.

“OH MY GOD!” She screamed, before covering her eyes at the sight of your bound naked body.

The embarrassment you felt right now definitely exceeded what you felt earlier when your friends had to first rescue you from the Kryptonian. In your defense, you tried to warn her before she opened the door, but the girl didn’t listen.

You could hear her uttering another spell under her head before a new tank top and pair of shorts appeared on your body. When the dark-haired girl confirmed you were indeed clothed, she knelt down to untie the gag off your mouth.

“Not one word of this to the others,” You said the second you could spit the torn piece of your old shirt out.

“Agreed.”

Zatanna helped you out of the handcuffs before helping you to your feet. It took you a minute to get your balance back since you hadn’t been on your feet for a while with Conner always choosing to carry you every fucking where on his shoulder.

“What took you all so long?! Conner freaking shut off the power and trapped me in here, and then basically molested me in the garage hangar. He was just about to get his grand prize before you guys showed up. My therapist is gonna be banking off this for the next year.” You all but shouted while trying to get the cooling bracelet off your wrist.

“Okay first off, TMI. Second off, we would’ve been back a half-hour ago but we were stuck outside trying to figure out why the door wouldn’t open. Now, we know why. Speaking of which, why didn’t you just blast him or fly away and come get us?”

“Oh, you don’t think I freaking tried that?! Conner waited to surprise me with his new powers just as I got out and then as a bonus, decided to slap one of Batman’s insurance policies on me. This freaking cooling bracelet is blocking my powers, and I don’t know how to get it off!” You groaned while trying to pry the thing open.

“Ugh, hold still,” Zatanna said while grabbing your wrist.

You heard her speaking backward again before you saw the blue light on the bracelet suddenly turn green before it snapped open, falling to the ground. Just as earlier when Conner first put it on and you felt a rush of cold air, the second it was off, a familiar heat spread over your body as you conjured two fireballs in your hands.

“Have I mentioned how much I appreciate you?”

“No. But, if you order me my favorite takeout for dinner, I’ll consider it all forgiven.”

“Deal.”

Just as you both began to make your way to the door, you could hear M’Gann calling out to you on the link.

‘M’Gann, what’s wrong? I just got Y/N and we’re about to be on our way back.’

‘Don’t. Conner’s on his way to you now. Get to the mission room and use the Zeta Tube to get out of here. Kaldur took some hard hits. He wasn’t as harsh on me as he was on him, but I think he figured out our plan.’

As soon as she said that, the door was blasted off its hinges as the Kryptonian made his way through. When he saw you weren’t in the closet anymore (pun not intended) and that you were free of your cuffs, you immediately knew you were in for it by the vicious snarl he let out.

Thankfully, you had no plans of letting that happen.

He pointed his finger at you before pointing at the ground in front of him, reminding you of earlier when you first broke out of his hold. When this entire mess began…

You moved Zatanna behind you while staring at the Kryptonian in his blue eyes, formulating a plan in your head.

‘Zatanna, when I give the signal. Teleport us to the mission room.’ You instructed.

‘What about Kal?’

‘M’Gann will take care of him, I’m sure. But Conner won’t even waste his time on him. He’ll be too focused on chasing after me.’

‘Alright.’

Just like earlier, Conner could somehow tell you were up to something. You were counting on the hopeful fact he hadn’t noticed you were free of the cooling bracelet, which was met with joyous truth as he reacted too slowly to you blasting your own heat vision right into his eyes as you did earlier.

He shouted in pain while you yelled “NOW” to Zatanna who immediately grabbed your hand while uttering the spell. However, he recovered faster this time than before and immediately tried to charge at you in hopes of snatching you back before you could get away, but was too late as you both blinked away, popping into the mission room in a flash of light.

“Nice one,” You said while immediately running for the console and punching in the coordinates for your city.

Just as you finished typing, you heard an animalistic growl from behind you, turning to see a flash of white fur before you were suddenly knocked to the ground. A pair of snarling teeth were in your face as you felt Wolf’s paws on your body while Sphere held back Zatanna from trying to help you.

“Ugh, I forgot about you two.” You groaned.

He must have sent them here to hold you off, probably knowing if you managed to get free, you’d try to transport your way out of here since the garage hangar was blocked.

Out of patience at this point, you mentally apologized to the canine before letting your body be consumed in flames to force him off your chest. Yet again though, as the day was proving over and over, you couldn’t catch a fucking break.

The moment you were off the ground, Conner rushed in and immediately charged for you. One second, you were standing free and ready to make a break for the teleporter, the next you found yourself slammed against the wall with him gripping both your arms while he pressed himself against you to prevent you from moving.

A familiar rush of cold air spread over you, the Kryptonian not wasting any time slamming your good ole wrist jewelry back on.

“Oh, you’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” You snapped while Conner had his arrogant smirk before tossing you back over his shoulder, not bothering to cuff your hands while making his way to the Zeta Tube.

“Zatanna, a little help!”

“I’d love to, but I’m kind of busy not becoming a bowling pin right now!”

You didn’t have time to throw back a witty remark before you felt yourself lifted and tossed into the open portal. The familiar tingle you always got when using the Zeta passageways came over but was stronger this time. Probably because your body was colder than its normal temp from the cooling bracelet, so it had more of an effect on you.

When the flash of light passed through your eyes, you found yourself inside the photo booth in the alleyway of your city. Knowing Conner would be right behind you, you figured one last-ditch attempt wouldn’t be too worthless. Maybe you could find a place to hide or catch someone’s attention to give you a hand.

Yeah, of course. Just grab the next random person’s attention and let them know a super-powered caveman Kryptonian is after your sweet little hole, and you need help escaping in their Toyota Prius or Nissan Altima even though he can move faster than the car.

Real smart idea. 

Well, actually the Altima may not be a bad thought. Those fuckers never obey the speed limit.

The moment you exited the photo booth, it lit up again with your captor promptly exiting and smashing the booth to pieces, preventing your friends from being able to follow behind.

Because why fucking not?

You barely had a chance to turn around and run before he had you back in his grip, his smug look returning to your sight before you were lifted into a bridal hold with him taking off in the air.

‘Oh, god, I’m so fucked…’

The sound of waves crashing against land was the first thing you recognized when Conner finally landed somewhere. A salty sea smell assaulted your nostrils as you looked up and took in the deserted beach. The city lights in the distance added some illumination on the dark shore as well as the shine from the moon in the clear sky.

You could remember countless times when you’d come out here at night whether with friends or just yourself to fool around or listen to the sounds of the waves. It helped you relax, helped you think. It was where you made some of your biggest revelations and decisions, like when you first discovered your powers.

Ironic a person with pyrokinesis first thought was to run to a place filled with water. Actually, maybe it was kind of smart. If something went wrong, like you accidentally set yourself on fire, you had a quick way to put it out.

There were a lot of great memories with this place. It was comforting. It was peaceful…

He brought you up to a lone standing tree before setting your on your feet positioning you between it and him leaving you no place to move. He held your waist tight in his hands while pressing himself against you, staring down deeply into your eyes.

The shadow around his face made his strong chin and jaw look more prominent, but more than ever, his blue eyes seemed to shine brighter than the ocean right behind you two as he stared down at you with an adoring gaze.

Wait, adoring?

“Co-Conner? Is that you? Like, actually you in there?”

He stared at you quietly, his usual frown in place which only made you more nervous until the corners of his lips turned up into an all-familiar cocky grin, immediately putting you on high alert.

“Well, depends on your definition of ‘actually me’, but if you mean am I back to a regular state of mind, then yeah, seems so.” He responded.

Pardon?

“I- uh, I’m sorry, huh?” You stammered, words slowly escaping your mind.

“Think I can get a couple rounds in before the others show up?” He asked while taking a hand and palming around your stomach.

Bitch, what?

“Hold the fuck up!” You exclaimed, your hands fully planted on his chest as stared down at you with an amused raised eyebrow. “The hell you mean was that enough?! Were you actually conscious of everything this entire time?”

You may have sometimes been a little naive, a bit clumsy, and you often ran your mouth before you thought about what you were saying, but you were no fool. Boo-Boo was nowhere on your birth certificate last time you checked.

So, when Conner’s lack of confusion and surprise at the current ‘circumstance’ you were in failed to show, assumptions were made on your end. And they were not good, not in the slightest.

“Conner whatever your fucking middle name is Kent, I swear to whatever deity is listening to me right now, if you don’t explain what the fuck is going on right now, this whole beach is going to turn to glass in the next 10 seconds. Because if you’ve been playing games this entire time, pretending you were in some primal state of mind just to make a fool out of me, you’re going to realize that Batman is not the only one who has different ways of kicking your ass. And I promise you, that if-”

Your rant ended in a sudden ‘mmph’ sound when he pulled you into a sudden kiss. Out of all the times the hero managed to shock you into silence, this has to be one of the most surprising and satisfying ones.

There was a latent level of shock in your body, your wide eyes reflecting this, but the soft feel of his lips had them closing and you giving in to him within seconds. Despite his initial rough approach, there was a tenderness in the way he kissed you.

Before you even knew it, your lips were dancing right along with his. There was passion and longing in that kiss, leaving you more confused than 10 seconds prior.

The way he held and treated you was definitely different. The possessive grip he had around you didn’t falter at all. But, there was a newfound gentleness in his touch, like you were a prize to be cared for. Even if that was what you technically were earlier when he was in his conquest mode, this was not the same as that.

In those moments earlier, you were the kind of prize meant to be conquered. Here in this moment, you were rather something treasured.

Before long, your human lungs started giving you their red alert. Conner broke away the kiss not a moment later as if he already knew before you did. Your lips chased after his though, and he chuckled at your reaction before lifting a finger to your chin to tilt your head up toward him.

“Does that explain enough for you, or do you need a little bit more demonstration?”

Despite the blush written clear across your cheeks, there was a small smile appearing on your lips, as you took a few seconds to process what was going through your head and heart.

Satisfaction, physically speaking.

Nerves and adrenaline.

Ultra flamboyant giddiness.

Completely normal.

Yet, that nagging little voice in the back of your mind got louder with every fluttering heartbeat that pumped blood and butterflies throughout your veins.

What did this all mean?

“Hey,” You heard the Kryptonian speak, noticing the concerned look on his face, “What’s wrong? Did I do something?” There was a nervous tone in his words, almost vulnerable if you were listening hard enough which would be very different compared to the stark, smug confidence he showed you whenever he managed to toss you on his shoulder or dig himself inside your guts. Even before this serum fiasco, he may have been standoffish at moments and quiet, but rarely had you ever heard him talk like he was afraid of being hurt.

You felt for him in that moment, you really did, but you were also at risk of being hurt. And, rather than sit there and pretend like everything was clear and simple, you had questions that needed answering. For your own sake, and quite frankly, your own sanity.

“Conner, I-” The words seem to get stuck in your throat, with you trying to find the right thing to say, but what that exactly was couldn’t form a clear sentence in your mind. So, out of options, you just babbled.

“I don’t know what the heck is going on right now, and truthfully, I rarely ever do know what’s going on. Uh, wait, what was I saying? Oh right! This morning, we were friends, nothing more, then the warehouse happened, and started acting like a caveman and treated me like your prey or prize or whatever, not like it wasn’t super hot, because it definitely was and I shouldn’t have said that. Either way, you’re confused! No, wait, that came out wrong. I meant you’re confusing and I’m confused. Either way–

“Y/N!”

Conner shouting your name with a slight squeeze to your ass was an effiective way of shutting you up. Rude and hot, but effective nonetheless.

“I know. I was aware of everything going on.”

Now, that had you wordless.

“Well, actually, not everything. And I wasn’t in control of my actions at all. Well, not completely. Okay, now I’m confused.”

“You and me both.” You muttered under your breath. He responded with a light growl and a pinch to your ass.

“I’ll spank you.”

“Like you haven’t already done worse.” You said back with a challenging tone.

A stubborn grunt was let off before he gave you another small thrust as punishment for your smart quip, pulling a light whine from you. You could feel his cum dripping out of you slowly since his dick kept you plugged and everything inside, which you had a slight feeling he was doing on purpose.

“Alright, before any more smutty shenanigans ensue, can we talk about what exactly this is, and more importantly, why this even happened in the first place.”

Conner let out a sigh, looking down at you through his eyelashes before leaning down and giving your neck and shoulder light kisses. The giddy feeling in your stomach almost managed to cloud your rationality, almost being the keyword.

“Hey, don’t try to distract me.” You chastised him with a slight slap against his naked arm.

“I’m not distracting, I’m just enjoying the moment.” He said while giving you a few more light kisses.

Eventually, he moved you both over to the sand, setting you both down a little bit closer to the water while sitting you in his lap. However, you suddenly found yourself missing the warm contact of his skin pressing against yours.

When he finally had you both in comfortable positions, you resting against his chest and him nuzzling your hair, the intense beating in your heart that you had become used to from the day’s excitement had gradually started to slow down. You felt yourself nuzzling into his embrace more than you would admit out loud, but the man was comfortable.

After a few beats of silence, you heard Conner clear his throat. Though you didn’t want to move from the warm spot, you’d rather look the Kryptonian in the eyes as he explained himself. For your own sake.

“I was aware of what I was doing,” He started, which had your chest tightening and a sullen look appearing on your face which he noticed, “Only after you guys subdued me the first time, and like I said earlier, I still wasn’t in full control of myself.”

You could feel the confusion start to return to your mind, but rather than start rambling again, you just nodded to him to signal you were listening and let him continue.

“When I first woke up from the serum, Tornado was right. I was completely out of my mind and acting on pure animalistic instinct. All my senses were amplified even more than they usually are with my powers and all. So the onslaught of different smells and scents triggered me and I was about two seconds away from trying to kill you all, then I caught your scent out of everyone else’s, and the next thing I knew, you were all I could think about.”

Huh, nice to know you were what was stopping the team’s arguably most powerful member from murdering you all by just smelling good. Something you never thought you’d be thinking in your life, but there was a first for everything as they say.

“It started as a general curiosity, since at the moment, all my mind could think prior was anger and murder. But, of course, curiosity turned to excitement, and let’s just say I suddenly only had one goal in mind.”

“Doing me in front of friends?”

“I’d rather call it ‘mounting my claim.’ You know, animal terms and all that stuff.”

You rolled your eyes at his corny joke, before going silent again to let him continue.

“But, yes, for a lack of better words, all I could think about was shoving my dick inside you. You just smelled so good in that moment, you always have, but, the serum just suddenly made your scent feel almost irresistible to me, and all I could think of was capturing you in my arms and not letting anyone take you from me. Granted, I might have gone a bit far.”

“A bit? You call slinging me over your shoulder for half an hour while you leap, run, and fight our friends going just a bit far? Not to mention you choke-slamming Wally against the wall and damn near strangling him.

“Okay, one, you enjoyed that. I have the dried evidence on the shoulder of my shirt to prove it, spanking and all so don’t try and deny it.”

He got you there. Blushing cheeks (face and ass) and all.

“Second, I told you. Animal state of mind. In my head, I claimed you as my mine, and everyone else was a threat to that. What animal have you ever seen not defend their territory?” He asked, which you had to admit, he got you there as well.

Also, why was that kind of hot?

“You know I can still smell your arousal right? And the fact that you are in my pants and covered in my scent is not helping.” He said, to which you noticed the familiar feel of his throbbing organ below you wanting more action.

“Mind your business.”

“You’re currently sitting on my lap half naked while wearing my pants and covered in my sweat and cum. I think it’s safe to say you are my business at the moment.” He responded while tightening his hold around you.

Seriously, where did he get this smart (and hot) mouth from? That serum had to have more side effects than noted. But, you weren’t easily defeated in the sass factor. Conner may have you beat when it comes to raw strength and physical force, but wordplay? That was your forté.

“And who’s exact fault is it, that I’m even in this position?”

“Dr. Ivo.”

“Okay, well, after him.”

“Batman and Red Tornado for not making sure I was properly secured before leaving.”

“Okay! After them!”

“The others for not showing you the backdoor out of the Cave.”

“There’s a backdoor?!”

“Yeah, you didn’t know? M’Gann showed it to everyone on their first tour of the base. The garage hangar is considered the front door, and there’s a back door just in case. You didn’t think we’d only rely on the vehicle hangar or the Zeta Gateway if we had to make a fast escape did you?”

“I- … No comment.” You sighed in defeat, Conner chuckling at your tone while rubbing your back. You’d be having a word with your friends later when you got back to the Cave. Many words…

“It’s okay, I really didn’t give you many options either way. And even if you did manage to make it out the back, I would’ve just followed right behind as you already know.” The Kryptonian reassured you, which reminded you about the nagging question in the back of your mind.

“So, on that note, I’m assuming when you said you were aware of your actions, it was then?”

It was his turn to sigh after you asked your question, immediately knowing where this was heading.

“Yes. After Batman knocked me out with the Kryptonite, the serum lost some of its effect on me, but not as much as Red Tornado predicted. Kryptonite doesn’t just weaken my abilities, it affects everything in me, including my immune system. By the time I woke up, I was still very much under its influence, but I was slightly back to myself and could think and focus on more things other than sex and fighting.”

It made sense. You remembered the moment during your fight with Conner in the vehicle hangar when you realized how convenient and well-planned everything seemed. It was truly when your doubts and insecurities about everything started taking root, thinking all of it was just some game with you in the end being the actual loser.

Now, the time to find out if you lost was here, and you weren’t sure if you wanted to know.

Some would think that paying attention to Conner’s actions and words before this, would negate some of those concerns in your head, but, as life has proven many times in the past, things aren’t always as they seem.

But, that doesn’t mean it’s always in a bad way though…

“So, you were awake then, huh? When Wally and I were talking in the medical hangar…”

He looked down at you at that moment, his eyes softening as if he could sense the growing mental and emotional turmoil in your head and chest. You wanted to focus on his words, and his words only, but it was hard with the way you could feel him pulling you in closer, doing his best to comfort you as much as possible.

It was the fact that you couldn’t tell if it was for making you feel better in the moment to alleviate your worries or cushion the eventual blow that you were expecting to come soon.

“Yes, I was. I was actually up that entire time. The Kryptonite did weaken me enough to where I couldn’t react or respond like I would’ve if I could, but I wasn’t asleep or unconscious. Truthfully, after Batman and Tornado had left and it was just you and him in the room, I was planning to just surprise you both right there. Incapicate Wally in any way I could, grab you, and run for one of the exits.”

“What stopped you?”

All day, you’d been subjected to prideful smirks, arrogant grins, and cocky looks from the Kryptonian. An annoying, but definitely attractive sub-trait of his overwhelming confidence and stalwart courage. So, seeing his blushing cheeks and undeniable shy look on his face had you sitting up very suddenly.

Conner didn’t like it since it meant you could see his face more clearly, and unbeknownst to you, you were further away from him, and he liked the feeling of you cuddling against his body.

“Why are you blushing?” You asked, not letting him pull you back in his arms like he tried. It helped you were sitting on his still very erect penis at a slightly awkward angle which limited his movements. One wrong move, and he’d be in a very uncomfortable position.

“Would you stop it?” He pleaded, clearly already uncomfortable with the metamorphic spotlight that had been placed on him.

“Answer the question, and I will.”

“I thought actions spoke louder than words.”

“And suddenly, I can’t hear. Answer.”

“How will you hear the words?”

“I’ll read your lips. Answer the damn question.”

You were staring into his blue eyes by this point, fully waiting for your answer. The Kryptonian looked right back into your own before his hands grabbed the sides of your head, pulling you into another smashing kiss like the one against the tree earlier.

This was similar but still very different from the previous one. He wasn’t trying to shut you up (considering you weren’t even talking), but merely trying to communicate the words he couldn’t bring himself to say. Ironic how he has no trouble expressing how he feels in any other scenario whether it’s his anger about a mission or irritation with an order from Batman or your comrades, but this has him fumbling.

Yet, you were not complaining about how you moved your lips against his, bringing your hands around his neck. You could almost physically feel everything he was pouring into the kiss, and it was mind-numbing, to say the least.

Once again, your human lungs reminded you of their need for oxygen. Thankfully, Conner did the work for you and pulled away from your lips with you chasing after them. He placed another light kiss on them though, while opening his eyes to your closed ones, enjoying the pleasant view in front of him.

When you opened yours back up to him, he smiled at you, placing another peck on your lips while finally scooting you back closer to him, and re-adjusting himself into a more comfortable position.

“Does that answer your question?” He asked. Though there was no trace of sarcasm in his tone, you could still spy it in his face with the humorous glint in his eye.

“Maybe. I might need another one though just to be sure. I always like to double-check my answers.” You responded with your own smile.

He laughed at you before feeling himself nuzzling his face into your neck, taking in your scent which you now could admit was actually very comforting. Still weird, but you’d grown used to it by this point.

Your doubts had been quieted, and you felt you could trust his words without second-guessing or overthinking, something that was not an easy feat to do. That’s why when a few moments of silence passed, you decided to ask one of the other questions that had been nagging in the back of your mind.

“How long?”

“Since you joined the team. I was never good with my feelings, let alone expressing or even understanding them. It took some time for me to figure out what they were, and when I did, I was nervous and scared that you didn’t feel the same about me. I knew you liked guys, but I didn’t know if you liked me. And, even if you did, I didn’t know if you would like me for… well, me. So, I stayed quiet.” He admitted, immediately knowing what you were asking.

Thinking about it from his perspective, you could see his reasoning and why he chose to hide his feelings. If you were in his shoes, you’d probably do the same. However, it was clear neither of you was good at picking up signs considering he missed all the ones that showed you were into him. Not that you were trying to, but there were moments where it was plainly obvious, enough for Wally to pick up on them which led to him finding out.

Idiots in love, the both of you.

“When I heard you and Wally talking in the medical wing, and his little teases and performance, it was all the confirmation I needed. If it wasn’t for that, like I said, I probably would’ve just waited for the right moment to snatch you away from the others and find a way out of the Cave without alerting them. But, after hearing that conversation, I figured why not make it a little bit more challenging and fun. Didn’t expect you to put up as much of a fight though. Glad I had insurance.” He explained, his typical smirk returning to his face while he marveled at the accessory on your wrist.

Hold it.

“Back up. You mean to tell me you trapping me in the Cave, fingering me in the vehicle hangar, and locking me in your closet was all for fun and a challenge? I’m nervous to ask what your ideal idea is for a first date.” You stated. He gave you an unimpressed look while nudging his still-hard member against you.

“Don’t act like you didn’t enjoy any of it. Remember, I could hear, taste, and smell your arousal through everything.” He teased while nipping at your ear. 

You ignored the horny pang in your stomach from that while pretending to be annoyed, “Whatever. Well, I hope you weren;t planning to try and do me raw. Last thing I need is to end up pregnant.”

“What if I want a kid? No better way to trap you with me than with a baby.” Conner mumbled while still giving you soft kisses behind your ear and neck. 

“Then you can explain to my dad what happened if I end up knocked up. And I gotta warn ya, Kryptonian powers or not, that man is scary.” You chuckled, turning your head to look at the superhero, who would never admit that slight nervous look in his eyes at the mention of your father.

A slight laugh bubbled up your chest before you turned looking out to the sea. The feel of the cold piece of metal on your wrist became prominent and the silence and you looked down at the device, still slightly shuddering from the chill running through your body.

“How did you even know about this thing in the first place?” You asked, pointing to the cooling device on your wrist.

“Dick let me in on a few little secrets about the Bat, though he never did tell me where he keeps getting and storing all that freaking kryptonite. Anyway, when I heard you and Wally talking about Batman’s insurance plans, I figured if he had one for me, then he had to have one for every meta on the team and in the league. While you and the others were in the lounge room hanging out, I went searching through the libraries and rooms and found some of Batman’s secret compartments.” He explained.

You raised an eyebrow at that. “Hmm, so is that when you discovered your unlocked abilities?”

“Actually, no. Right when you managed to make it out of the door, I originally was just going to do the same as I did before and well… leap after you. Even if you got away, I could track you down since your scent is alluring, but definitely not subtle. Fire powers and all,” He said with a smug little chuckle.

“Yeah yeah yeah, I get it. Heat makes smell more noticeable. Gosh, you and Wally sure love harping down that tree.” You retorted with an actual annoyed eye roll this time.

“Hey, I said you still smell good. Either way, when I jumped after you I noticed instead of falling back down to the ground, I was still in the air flying. It didn’t take much for me to realize what was going on and I just flew into action, literally.”

“So the whole welding the door shut and almost barbecuing our friends?”

“Yeah, I might have overdone it on that one, but animal instincts were still in control. There was only so much I could do to hold myself back. Every time you fought against me or got away or the others intervened was another boost to my aggression and anger, prompting my hasty reactions. And it wasn’t just my instincts fueling all this. Like I said, there was a reason your scent stuck out to me the most. Your conversation with Wally just confirmed it was returned and it made me a bit more crazy to an extent.”

“To an extent is a stretch,” You muttered under your breath. Conner let out an annoyed grunt while giving you another playful nip on your ear.

“Super hearing, remember?”

You were fully aware of his ability, but, for his sake, you played along.

“Right, sorry.” He gave a kiss to your neck as a way of saying he accepted the apology. With a little time to process everything, you felt most of your questions answered. However, there was one that was remaining at the back of your mind. Probably the most pressing one to be honest.

“So, is that why you and M’Gann…”

“We broke up because I realized that there wasn’t any real spark between me and her. What started between us was curiosity, considering I didn’t know what romance and feelings and everything else was. I just went with what I saw and observed. Sometimes it was nice, many times it was confusing, and many times, it felt wrong. So, I broke up with her. She was upset about it a little and figured it had something to do with you. She was always suspicious, but never had confirmation until this happened.”

Conner pointed his fingers between the two of you, and the reminder of your earlier indecent actions had you blushing and smiling all over again. You had to admit, it was a nice feeling knowing that most of your doubtful and questioning thoughts were for nothing.

Well, it’s better to be cautious than to fall in blindly and get hurt. But, the satisfaction and happiness you felt in your chest bloomed over all of those past feelings.

Thinking about the day's events and how everything ended up happening, you had to say you were fine with how it all played out. However, you definitely would admit you imagined you and Conner getting together in an entirely different scenario. 

Saving each other on a mission, getting into an argument and blurting things out, or even just the cutesy little moments where your friends stick their noses in and try to get you together were all ideas that came to mind. This scenario however with you sitting on the beach after he acted like a caveman and chose you as his new mate was not in the tarot cards for this category.

Though, the end result had you more than satisfied; both physically, mentally, and emotionally.

If there was anything to learn from this, you should listen to your instincts more, no matter how primal they are.

“So, are you going to take this off anytime soon?” You asked, once again pointing at the wrist jewelry you were currently wearing.

Conner smiled down at the item and you mischievously before running one of his hands over the device.

“Are you going to try and fight me again? I kind of like you being defenseless and helpless.” He joked though a part of you knew he was also partly serious.

Though, now, considering all that was said and done, it was your turn to have some fun.

“Well, considering you had to take away my powers to be able to catch me, I’d say your victory wasn’t really much of a victory at all.” You taunted while tracing a finger over his chest.

You could feel the vibration from his irritated growl under your fingertips, letting you know you hit the right button. Caveman or not, Conner both loved and hated being challenged.

“I mean, to me, it says that even with your full Kryptonian powers, you needed some cheap little trinket to be able to actually subdue me. Guess I’m just that tough of a prey to catch.” You continued your teasing, sneakily taking glances up at the Kryptonian, catching his hard and lustful stares at you.

“Is that so?” He gruffly spoke into your ear.

“It would seem so, at least to me, and anyone else watching. Don’t think you can say you claimed me if you couldn’t manage to beat me fair and square. But, it’s okay, I get it. Maybe you’re not up to the challenge. Maybe someone else will come along and prove their merit without needing to cheat.”

You barely finished the sentence before the sound of the clamp opening hit your ears. That familiar rush of warmth came over you again as your fire returned to your body. While you were distracted, Conner ripped the shorts off and his pants off of him before standing you both up, now fully naked to the world, minus your shirt.

“I dare you to say that again.”

You were really in for it now.

☀️ | Conner Kent/Superboy | ☀️

☀️ | Masterlists | ☀️

[hestzhyen]

Chapter 57 Cope Posting

Not like this, dear void... not like this. The blessing/curse of Kagurabachi chapters ending in 7 being absolute banger cliffhangers continues and there is not enough copium in the world to get me through to next week. This entry is an absolute mess...

Let's start with practicing on the editor's comments again. Sorry if the colours are hard to read on brighter backgrounds, I live in Dark Mode as much as possible.

First page: ハクリが飛宗の転送に成功! そして- [Hakuri ga Tobimune no tensou ni seikou! Soshite-, Hakuri successfully transfers Tobimune! And then-] Last page: 座村, 漆羽… 事態は混沌へ… [Samura, Uruha... jitai ha konton he..., Samura, Uruha... the situation turns chaotic...] noting that the word used for "situation", jitai (事態), specifically has negative connotations (as opposed to 状況 [joukyou], which is neutral).

These comments are rarely more than fluff just to give the editors some presence in the work itself, so I don't take them as definite indicators of anything going on in the plot. But man. Man. "Bad situation" seems to be putting it lightly. I was ready to take you off the list of possible traitors, Samura! I was seriously going to do it! Whyyyyyyyyyyy

Chihiro and the Pink Menace

Fine, first up... school?

How does our cast stack up to the average student after getting home schooled in murder and cool action poses?

It was obvious to everyone that this arc would involve Chihiro learning about the unpleasant sides of his dad's legacy. So this is just a "hey don't forget" moment for us that also highlights how far removed Hiruhiko and Chihiro are from regular society. Those two (and Hakuri) should be in their last year of high school, complaining about homework or stressing about their future college/job plans right now instead of fighting to the death. Poor guys.

I don't want to presume too much about Hokazono-sensei's views, but I really like directly acknowledging that winners write history and so their wartime cruelty is often downplayed or re-framed as heroism. These kids and even Chihiro only know the revised version of what happened, not the truth of the matter.

Home schooled Chihiro confirmed! Kinda!

Anyway, some more John Plan Reveal. He wants Chihiro to learn the truth about his father's legacy and the impact it's had- that's why he hasn't been "harvested" yet. This implies that there's some terrible thing that could upend Chihiro's entire worldview to be learned. But we kind of already knew that based on everything I just said.

I hope this isn't a flag for John trying to convince Chihiro to join him. There are awful secrets that are going to be unearthed about Kunishige and the Kamunabi this arc for sure, but it's kind of a waste of our time to do the "oooh it was worse than you thought why don't you join us to set things right" rigamarole.

Obviously the Hishaku have some compelling reasons to do all this if they can get someone as loath to kill as Samura on their side to murk his war buddies. It's just never gonna convince Chihiro so I hope we don't get a moralizing yapfest to accompany John's outstretched hand. I trust the writing though! So far it's been almost nothing but excellence so... chill, me. Just wait and see.

I think that no matter what happens Chihiro will continue to forge his own path with allies who care for him at his side. He won't choose the government's path, or the Hishaku's, or even his dad's- he'll create something new. Standard stuff for a shounen series but I never get tired of seeing it!

Before moving on to the coping session, there's something neat in this scene that I want to ramble about:

Local yapper yaps while the guy listening to him literally overthinks

I'll use the JP version if I have to, but I like how Chihiro's inner monologue deliberately overruns Hiruhiko's speech bubble to show that he's not paying full attention while his thoughts are in overdrive. He's still partially listening but he's not quite as composed as he appears to be on the outside, which is confirmed by the close-up zoom into his stressed look with the sweat drops. Yet when we zoom out, he seems a bit more put-together like usual. He's still exhausted from yesterday, man! Really should have rested up... at least the author acknowledges it. (Forced bed rest soon? Hopefully?)

This is how Hiruhiko was able to get the drop on Chihiro. Chihiro's got a lot on his mind and he has trouble focusing, just like Uruha chided him for on the train. His resolve is unshaken but he's still prone to wavering in the moment as he tries to process things. He even misses the fist time Samura's name was mentioned! Clearly Chihiro needs Hakuri or Uruha or someone there to yell encouragement at the right time to stop him from getting lost in his own head. But he's got a lot to think about and work through right now, so it's understandable why he's so stressed out.

Poor Chihiro. He's coming to the conclusions that we, the readers privileged with having weeks IRL to ponder new information, came to long ago. The Master is not treated like a hero but a prisoner, and probably for very, very good reasons. Ones good enough to convince Samura to make a deal with the devil.

What Actually Happened?!

Not all the blades have themes from nature, it seems. Geisha offered many different types of entertainment to guests, from performing music to conversation to serving sake. So now we have the idea behind the name [Swaying Sake]!

First up to delay just a little longer: Kumeyuri power reveal! Seems to be based in some kind of performing arts aesthetic with the geisha that were conjured. Fitting for the guy who wears kabuki eye make-up right? ...And for the next bearer, who interrupted a kabuki performance to pick it up in a theater... I see you and your foreshadowing, Hokazono-sensei.

Fine. I'll admit it. The ending of the chapter makes it crystal clear that Hiruhiko is the new bearer contracted to Kumeyuri by having his origami butterflies come undone as he grasps the hilt in his teeth. Can't even hope it's another case of someone "borrowing" power like Kyora did with the Shinuchi of the bunch.

Magatsumi's the only blade that can be used by someone not contracted to it, hence the extra protections it needed.

So that means... yeah. Uruha's gone. Just like that.

There will be thousands of theories about what exactly happened to Uruha, why Samura made a deal with John, what the details of that deal were- we'll get the truth soon. I'm most interested in the reasoning that ties into Samura's sincere beliefs of killing being an evil act.

The burden of death weighs so heavily on him that he blinded himself in penance. But he's willing to let his own apprentice die -probably even kill him himself!- because of... what? What was so horrible about fighting with the Master and Kunishige's weapons for the good of the nation? What compelled him to help the Hishaku kill the remaining bearers and upend the peace they earned?!

Hey, Samura. Is it really so bad to be called a war hero while being treated like a prisoner in a comfortable government-provided jail facility? Is it so horrible that "alternative facts" pass for real history to bury whatever horrors you witnessed and possibly perpetrated? Is it truly awful to have people willing to die for you despite all the grave sins you've committed? That they're likely completely unaware of thanks to government propaganda and being too young to have witnessed the truth?

...I need those Seitei War flashbacks pronto.

*----------------------------------------------------------------------------*

Wait a minute. Jail? Even the friggin' onsen?

Yup! The Master's the only one being treated like a dangerous criminal outright, but the 慚箱 [sanso] are just dressed up prisons for the Bearers. The Kamunabi ain't even subtle about it.

慚 [san] - to feel shame 箱 [sou] - box

The government put these guys in specially-constructed (or repurposed) buildings officially referred to as "shame boxes" and told them they couldn't leave. Even the name given to one of them is a bit much! 国獄温泉 [Kokugoku Onsen] translates to:

国 [koku]- country/state/national government 獄 [goku]- jail/prison 温泉 [onsen] - hot spring

Gee, I wonder if Uruha was having a good time at State Prison Hot Springs?

That said, while there may well be some bitterness between the Bearers and the Kamunabi, it's not the main motivating factor for Samura. His is definitely rooted in how they all acted during the war and how guilty he feels now that they're promoted as heroes.

*----------------------------------------------------------------------------*

It looks like Chihiro's being summoned by Hakuri in the very last panel so we might get some perspective on Samura's reasoning next week. Probably no clear answers right away, but at least enough to see if he really was the one who killed Uruha and a bit of insight into why. And to see if Uruha's dead at all... I mean, if we don't see a body... let me be delusional, okay?!

I'm just not able to go all-in on believing Uruha's dead. But it's not because I don't think he actually is... it just doesn't feel real after spending weeks preparing to let go of Samura. Not to mention the tried-and-true tactic of baiting out strong emotions with implied character deaths.

Normally I don't take death foreshadowing like this too seriously in shounen series. I just wait to see if the author is faking me out or not before getting stressed (unless it's Hakuri, in which case I stress responsibly). But Kagurabachi is a series that lured the MC with a child's severed leg and showed two suicide attempts on-screen, one of which was horrifically successful- right in front of someone who was already traumatized too. Hell we lost most of the anti-Kuregumo squad without much fanfare back in the Sojo arc! Only actually showing a child being tortured on-screen is too much, apparently. This series is dark as hell when the author wants it to be and Uruha's death is probably another one of those times.

There's hope in me that Uruha can still come out of this alive just because I like him so much, but I want the author to follow through on his death when it's presented as such an ominously real scenario. All signs point to Uruha being a goner, so don't make it look iron-clad then say "nah" the next chapter with some technicality that we couldn't have known about until the reveal. I would rather lose Uruha in an unexpectedly painful way than be faked out just to get the reaction out of me, y'know? Don't toy with me. Commit to crushing my heart, dammit.

But, God... oh man. I fell for the bait and got stupidly attached to a Bearer in the arc named after killing them. I even knew bad times were coming because of all the levity at the start of the arc but still went on hoping nothing would happen so soon. Laugh at me, I deserve it. I probably helped this manifest by mentioning how awful it would be if Chihiro found out a Bearer died because Hiruhiko was able to contract with one of the blades. Saying "I crave the angst that will come from this situation with every fiber of my being" in a post tag was overkill. It's just:

Author: names the arc after assassinating the bearers

Reader: gets attached anyway

Author: assassinates a bearer

Reader: ╚(•⌂•)╝

Coping Theory

May as well put my two cents in on how it could have gone down while I'm here...

I wonder if he planned to die in the raid instead so it looked like an unavoidable accident, sparing everyone else from the carnage.

This exact sequence- the Makizumi talking about honor in death for saving Samura, and Uruha's words that the Bearer's lives need to be valued above others'- is what solidifies Samura's resolve. This man is filled to the brim with guilt and self-loathing (much like another swordsman we know). He cannot save himself, but... perhaps he can take some equally bad sinners down with him for the greater good. He's not only a mirror for Hakuri, but Chihiro as well- one's resolve to save no matter the cost to one's self, and one's resolve to go to hell for what they believe is right. That's how I'm reading this until we get his own insight on the matter, at least.

It's not a stretch to infer that Samura thinks the Bearers are better off dead in large part due to the powers they command and things that were done during the war. That's still a huge mystery to be unraveled but I mean:

Seeing the bare minimum of Magatsumi in action really drives home how horrific these "heroes" could seem out on the battle field doesn't it? No wonder the clone sorcerer described the Seitei war as "hell on earth". But the public has no knowledge of this. They only got the sanitized version fit for PR purposes and feel-good stories.

The Hishaku seem to be intent on dismantling this image. Perhaps that's how they got Samura on their side? Not sure how the current Bearers dying and giving the Hishaku access to that dreadful power is better than the status quo, but that's something that will become clear with more reveals about the ideology driving the group. Maybe Samura doesn't care so much about the rest of the world and just wants to do what's best for the truth that's been buried under nearly two decade's worth of secrecy.

As to what happened with Uruha... two things come to mind. One I think is more likely, and one I want to cling to until it's ripped away as I sob and beg for just one little bit of comfort.

Most likely, I think Samura and Uruha had an exchange about ideals and the value of their lives. Samura overpowered Uruha per the plan as the "trump card" and that was that.

In delulu land, I want Samura to have been double-crossed. As in he made a deal on the condition that the lives of the people he cared about would be spared, but of course Uruha couldn't be allowed to live. So the Hishaku ensured that he'd die there no matter what. It's a bunk theory since Mr. Hatshaku left once the situation turned against him... maybe incorporate some of the datenseki mind control stuff in there somehow? I don't know. Just let me have this until canon proves otherwise.

Hakuri and Chihiro, Though?! And Miscellaneous Questions

(Ch. 46) I'm not going to be okay for a while and neither are they.

Best boys are really gonna go through it no matter what Chihiro is summoned back to. They'll be in a rough way... not only did they lose Uruha and hand Kumeyuri to Hiruhiko, but Samura betrayed them all... oof. So much for proving themselves to the Kamunabi. They're going to get an earful and be set back in the "negotiations" big time.

No doubt Chihiro will put this burden on his shoulders too, even if no one could have predicted Samura's defection to the enemy. It's his dad's legacy that's causing all this strife right now. He'll be more motivated than ever to unravel the war's true history and I'll be right there with him hoping he doesn't push himself too hard or harshly. The son shouldn't be responsible for the sins his father committed before he was even born. But that's just like, my opinion, man.

Meanwhile...

"I'm still good for it," wheezes the guy with blood gushing out of his nose at an alarming rate.

Hakuri will probably blame himself too. Depending on how things shake out, it could be for anything from accidentally arming a traitor to seeing someone die in front of him again. There's a good chance he'll (temporarily) lose the thing that makes him useful too, so that'll be an extra layer of angst for him to deal with. What value does a broken tool that couldn't fulfill it's one purpose have?

I also wonder what prompted Hakuri to summon Chihiro away from Hiruhiko. He's kind of in rough shape to do it just 'cause he misses his (boy)friend. They have cell phones to communicate with so it seems a bit abrupt to summon him back without checking first. Hakuri's also not the type to impose on someone to protect him. Nor is he the type to drop Chihiro into the middle of a life-or-death situation without a sense of mutual understanding first. So there had to be some kind of pressing need. The timeline of events means he's summoning Chihiro right after Uruha was killed, so... more soulmate stuff maybe? Their souls call out to each other and resonate when they're in distress, after all (it's canon baybeeeeee). They're in perfect harmony and all that. Sorry for the shipping nonsense I just need any bit of fluff I can get right now.

So many questions that might not get answered...

What about the Makizumi? Will they defect to serve Samura? Or will they try to help get Hakuri to safety with the Kamunabi? Samura doesn't want to kill them at all so no matter what happens they'll live at least. Hooray an elite squad that didn't bite the dust... (I think they will choose Samura because of everything he did for them).

How did Hiruhiko know when Kumeyuri was usable anyway?! Was it some signal from his mystery supporter that was lurking outside the window? And who was that- did Worst Jeanist show up?

Samura's loath to kill innocents, but does Hakuri count as one? Would losing his sorcery be enough to count him as neutralized for the Hishaku's purposes? Was exhausting Hakuri the main reason why Hiruhiko sent all the forces to the temple in the first place?

Hiruhiko wasn't surprised to see Tobimune disappear, so the Hishaku probably know about Hakuri's power. Their mole within the Kamunabi should get a bonus for the turnaround time on learning that bit of info and sending it on. Unless John's playing 5D chess and knew about Hakuri's awakening and team-up with Chihiro before they even met the Kamunabi anyway... perhaps even orchestrated it too... that would definitely need a very good explanation.

Alright. Okay. Let's wait on tenterhooks together, dear void. No waterworks until they show the body, got it?

[sob]

[frostbitemutt]

some general yandere javier escuella hcs pleaseee

First request, nice.

Yandere! Javier Escuella hcs

!WARNINGS!: Gender Netrual darling, Yandere trope, forced relationship, possessive behavior, obssesive behavior and thoughts, murder, violence, stalking, kidnapping, manipulation

Main Traits

:|Possessive/Protective/Manipulative/Smothering|

✹ Mr.Esculla, previously a notorious bounty hunter, revolutionary, fleeing from his home country why? For killing a high ranking government official over a woman. Now an outlaw roaming America, wanted dead or alive in both countries. That's who you've unintentionally caught the attention of.

✹ I'm going to assume baseline here that you're part of the gang. Dosen't matter too much if you joined before or after him, he'll latch on either way. Over time, you'll naturally get to know each other, it's kinda hard not to. From minimal interactions, to a well formed friendship. I don't see his obsession coming about if you two have only had a couple chats

✹ As stated above, when his obsession sets in, it expresses itself through him displaying more possessive, protective, manipulative, and smothering behavior. Along with a few others. Those are simply the most blatant ones.

✹ His possessiveness shines through when you're out and about. Interacting with other folk. People that aren't him. Javier? Oh, no, he don't like that. Harsh glares at townsfolk who stand a bit too close, a swift death to drunken bastards who leer at you, and long drawn out deaths to any potential crushes or lovers you got.

✹ In a sick way he thinks he's protecting you. Keeping you distant from certain camp members like Micah, Arthur, maybe even John. Especially as the chapters go on. The drunkard he drowned? He would have tried to attack you. Stalking? No, no, no. You have it wrong. He's making sure you're safe. You don't know what's good for you.

✹ All just another way to manipulate you into falling for him. Trying to coax you into seeing him as more than a buddy. You trust him don't you? You'd believe him over the others right? He's done so much for you. He'd never mean you any harm. He just wants what's best for you. Some other members of the gang.. they don't care as much as he does. So just stick with him alright?

✹ He's big on smothering you with his attention. Purring out complements to see how you react, akward attempts at flirting, giving you fancy pocket watches he found, offering to upgrade your weapons for you, and getting you new clothes. Then if you allow it, he'll lean into you, pull you into half hugs, a resting hand on your shoulder, or full hugs that linger for a bit too long. It's very obvious to any bystander that he's smitten.

✹ Of course he'll stalk you, like a lot of yanderes do. He'll sit near your tent, watching you sleep, maybe even steal a thing or two. Not limited to clothes, hair, and jewelry. If you're a real heavy sleeper he'll just sit right beside you. Prodding and poking at you oh so gently, enough to where you won't stir. Itching for some kind of contact.

✹ Let's say now hypothetically you attempt to run, leave the gang, or just cut contact with him in general. Once again the reason dosent matter too much, could be you found out his behavior, you wanna leave outlaw life behind, or you sided with Arthur and John during that final showdown.

✹ That? Running from him? That's not gonna go over too well. He isn't one for letting go. He's almost insulted really. After all he's done for you? The loyalty he's shown you? Yeah, no. You're staying with him. Wether you want to oe not.

✹ His bounty hunting experience really shows, tracking you down by any means, shoe prints in the dirt, horse hoof prints, questioning around town, and just suspecting where you'd go. Inevitably he finds you. After a short tussle, or none at all if he sneaks up on you, you're being tied and tossed onto the back of his horse.

✹ Now, generally he dosen't hurt you. He tries his best not to be too harsh with his handling of you. He dosen't like seeing you hurt. If you got a dollar for each time he's gone ballistic at an odriscoll or cop that managed to get in a hit on you during a shootout, it would be enough to go to Tahiti.

✹ The one exception is here, you trying to part from him. He'll cause you injury if it means halting your plans. Nothing too severe. Of course. He isn't trying to kill you here. That'd kinda ruin the whole thing.

✹ You can complain all you want, shout at him, cry. His mind is set after you've tried to run. Don't worry though. It'll be just you two now! Off to start a new life together in Mexico. No more Arthur. No more Dutch. No more gang. No more Pinkertons. Just you and him.

[makeste]

BnHA Chapter 428: Night of the Kouhai

Previously on BnHA: Well at least Spinner is sort of kind of doing okay??

Today on BnHA: I see the check that I sent to Horikoshi finally cleared.

okay first things first, you all know how it is right. I’ve never made a secret of my Kacchan bias on this blog. I promise you I did actually write a recap to 426 and 427 as well, but both of those chapters went HEAVY on the themes and drama and philosophical shit, and my reactions were kind of all over the place, and the Todoroki one in particular was like a million words wrong and it needs a shit ton of editing which I don’t know when I’ll have the spoons for

on the other hand however, a chapter like this which features class 2A cuteness and an absolutely unreasonable amount of Kacchan character development fanservice to hyperfixate on, takes absolutely no spoons at all and in fact actively recharges some of my spoons, so yeah. here we are

anyway so when we last left off Kacchan and Shouto were in terrible danger from a threat more terrifying than any they’ve ever encountered before. so I already knew this chapter was going to be great

“IIDA IS BIG AND STRONG AND AUTHORITATIVE, LET’S HIDE BEHIND HIM, HE WILL PROTECT US” everyone, I’m delighted to announce that the BnHA manga ending arc, despite having its ups and downs until this point, has officially been saved thanks to this panel right here. pack it up folks. this was officially a sweeping success. this panel brought Tomura back to life and teleported Touya’s mind back into his childhood self from roughly ten years ago time travel fix-it style. Horikoshi you beautiful bastard

Shouto trying to explain that he can handle them one on one but just not ALL TOGETHER IN THIS TERRIFYING SWARM LIKE THIS... buddy you don’t have to explain yourself sob. or is he trying to negotiate with them??

meanwhile Kacchan skips the negotiations entirely because he’s already assessed the situation and knows that the best way to handle this is to appeal to Iida Tenya’s boundless love of regulation and social order

y’all it’s killing me that this boy can handle being LITERALLY MURDERED by the greatest evil the world has ever known. but a group of admiring fifteen year old kouhais? no sir. that’s where he taps out

“but I thought Bakugou liked attention” yes well, you see, Shinsou, it’s kinda a “monkey’s paw curls” sort of thing

Kaminari with the BLACK SPEECH BUBBLE lmfao. FRIENDSHIP WITH KACCHAN HAS BEEN CANCELLED. NOW MIDORIYA IS MY BEST FRIEND

“well you see up until recently the ladies all thought Kacchan was a feral troll so they avoided him at all costs” wow Deku this man literally died for you and you just throw him under the bus with zero hesitation just like that

“SOURCE: ME, HIS CHILDHOOD FRIEND” just adding in his credentials in that little footnote there lest anyone question his authority on the subject

wait so is Shinsou surprised that girls used to not like Kacchan? or is he surprised that Kacchan and Deku were childhood friends? I can see how the latter might be surprising (oh Shinsou, sometimes I forget that you effectively just got here. we have so much to catch you up on. you will not BELIEVE how badly the two of these kids just want to hold hands all the time), but ngl, I’m rooting for the former just for the implications. “you’re seriously telling me a certified ten like him never had any girls interested in him?”

Horikoshi, hear me out, I know there are only two chapters left after this, and they’ve both already been written. but if you wanted to rewrite one of them at the last minute in order to add about a dozen more pages solely dedicated to Shinsou interrogating the rest of class 2A about Kacchan’s love life, out of what he insists is just innocent curiosity with no ulterior motives. well, I would not complain about that

anyway so yes Shinsou he is still single, for now. though I don’t really think it’s the girls you need to be worried about

meanwhile Mineta is all, “I just wanted to let all of you know MY opinion, which is that Bakugou isn’t morally upstanding enough for my delicate sensibilities.” yes you heard that right. Mineta of all people is weighing in on which personalities are deserving of being popular. that’s some audacity right there

A WILD DEKU FANBOY APPEARS???!

“IT GAVE ME COURAGE” omg yesssssss. jotting this down for essay material at some future point in time!! because THIS. this right here is the true “what it means to be a hero” in my opinion. a hero is someone who brings reassurance, yes. someone who makes people feel safe. but I think a hero should also be someone who makes people feel brave. someone who inspires other people to be heroic in turn. so yes, this, all of this, inject it into my veins. wtg Deku

having an official fanboy apparently broke Deku’s brain. hang in there bud. I know you’ve still got villain angst to work through, but try to enjoy this. you’re allowed to have nice things

IS MINETA STRANGLING KACCHAN BY HIS FUCKING TIE OMFG. THAT’S WHY HE NEVER USED TO WEAR THEM. also you’ve worn my patience down all the way now Mineta. get the fuck out of my blog

also Kacchan successfully beat the shit out of him with his ONE GOOD ARM so take that Mineta

also shoutout to this KiriBaku moment right here which feels like the first time we’ve had the two of them together in ages. good stuff

I’m LOVING this panel of Ochako staring at Deku all indecipherably, but ngl it’s also giving me just the slightest bit of anxiety, because does this mean we’re finally gonna get answers on what ultimately happened to Toga. it better not be sad. please don’t ruin my happy chapter with depressing things Horikoshi

“tell them no” OH MY GOD AIZAWA’S TURNING DOWN ALL THE INTERVIEW REQUESTS FOR HIS KIDS SO THEY CAN JUST BE KIDS AGAIN FOR A LITTLE WHILE nooooo what is this. “yeah but I’m prioritizing the kids who aren’t up for dishing to the media about all of their horrific trauma.” omfg. it’s been too long since my last Dadzawa feels. I wasn’t ready after all this time

you guys Izuku finally got a new hero costume that’s not in tatters after all this time. all it took was his old costume getting literally torn to shreds. and now he’s back to looking twelve years old again lol

JEANIST AND FATGUM REUNION?!?! RETURN OF KACCHAN’S THIRD DAD, AND A SECOND WACKY UNCLE TO BACK UP GOOD OLD MIC? GOD BLESS

FAT HIRED TAMAKI AS A SIDEKICK D’AWWWW

now they’re putting the kids to work. glorified janitorial duty. Deku you better not be using up any more of your embers on this sob

this motherfucker did not just liken my baby boy Kacchan to “distressed denim” omg. we have less than three chapters left and we’re spending our hard-earned time on this and I TRULY WOULD NOT CHANGE A SINGLE THING

“Kacchan on light duty” PROTECT HIM!!! don’t think I don’t see you over there too in the background, Aizawa. he’s surrounded by dads. they’re not letting him out of their sight again until he’s thirty

meanwhile he’s out here quietly sorting through trash with his one good hand without complaint and without even the barest hint of a gremlin face. with his half-and-half costume so we can’t see how fucked up his arm is. AND NO MORE MASK. we burned the mask. my thank you letters are in the mail, Horikoshi. and you too TomurAFO, this was your actual greatest contribution to society

ANOTHER DAD?!?!?!

dfjsdlfksldkfjl

“don’t worry, I’m gradually recovering” fsdfkslfkj r.i.p. my ability to take this man seriously ever again. do you think his voice is like the normal sexy Edgeshot ASMR voice except all high-pitched like a squirrel in a Disney princess movie. it is, isn’t it

he can make hands now. buddy you’re amazing. mvp of the entire fucking manga. my son literally owes you his life. please let me see you sitting Jeanist’s shoulder like a parrot before this wonderful glorious chapter ends

Kacchan’s little cheek scar is somehow both badass and adorable at the same time. I can’t stress how fucking much this chapter is just surrounding me with “protect him at all costs” feelings.

MORE SOFT KACCHAN FEELS ON THE NEXT PAGE BECAUSE HORIKOSHI WROTE THIS CHAPTER SPECIFICALLY FOR ME, THANK YOU SO MUCH

“are you... [ever] gonna go back to normal?” because if not he’s gonna cry himself to sleep every night for the rest of his life!! no big!! YOU WOULDN’T DO THAT TO HIM WOULD YOU EDGESHOT?

NO HE WOULD NOT. THANK YOU EDGESHOT. ONCE AGAIN YOU ARE A REAL ONE

...or wait. so does he mean he is indeed going to go back to normal eventually? or is it that he’s embracing this new form as an exciting new evolution, hence the “even further”? it kind of feels like the latter, ngl. especially with this weird sad little smile Kacchan gives in response... fuck me. what the hell am I gonna do when this series ends in two weeks. nobody can rip my soul to pieces as utterly and effortlessly as Horikoshi does, man

THEY MADE THE KIDS LUNCH AWWWW. though in fairness there’s something seriously messed up with Japan if any of these kids ever has to pay for another meal again for the REST OF THEIR LIVES. like come on

noooooo goddammit I’m tired of seeing Izuku quietly despairing over things that AREN’T HIS FAULT

I am glad to see this side of the civilian population, though. sure have come a long way since the low point that was the U.A. clown mob. I like this a whole lot better ngl

what’s up with this mysterious bus all of a sudden

OH MY GOD THEY’RE BACK LMAO. QUICKLY BAKUDADS. form a perimeter

they’re apologizing again dsfkjlskdfjlsfd THEY DIDN’T EVEN CONSIDER EVERYONE’S CIRCUMSTANCES!!! holy shit these first years are all collectively my new favorite character

Cementoss couldn’t take the pressure omfg. is this your first year as a homeroom teacher?? YOU CAN MAKE ANYTHING OUT OF CEMENT BUT CAN YOU MAKE YOURSELF A FREAKING SPINE, CEMENTOSS. I love him

Cementoss is telling them to go work in the corner so they don’t bother everyone else lmao. stuck them as far away from Kacchan as possible. good looking out, Cementoss. how many dads are we up to now?? five? six if we count Iida????

“hey so anyway what actually is up with these fucking kouhai though” I don’t know but my greatest regret is that this only became a thing three chapters before the series finale. where has this nonsense been all my life

“I don’t really understand” me neither fella but here in BnHA land we just roll with it

now we’re cutting back to Ochako who’s making yet another mysterious face that makes me think she knows perfectly well how much we all want to know whether Toga is alive or not, and she’s deliberately dragging it out just to fuck with us

okay I honestly can’t tell if Ochako is being fake cheerful or genuinely cheerful. but it’s definitely fake cheerful right??

aaaaand there’s a close up of Deku with FULL LIGHT back in his eyes like the clouds just parted for the first time in an age. accompanied by a THROB sound effect. ohhhh buddy. did my boy just have a hormone. is it finally that time

THEY’RE LETTING THE KIDS GO BACK HOME OMG. if they want. awwww. r.i.p. fanfic dorms. poor Shinsou missing out ONCE AGAIN

THEY DIDN’T CATCH THE CONCLUSION OF THE TOGACHAKO FIGHT ON FILM??! oh hell no. that settles it, she’s definitely still alive

tell me this cheeky motherfucker (Horikoshi, not Ochako lol) isn’t going to try and actually END THE SERIES with Toga’s fate still all ~mysterious~ and ~up in the air~ like I’m starting to get the sneaking suspicion that he’s doing

HORIKOSHI I SAID I DIDN’T WANT A DEPRESSING CHAPTER WHY ARE YOU HITTING ME WITH THESE FEELS AFTER I LET MY GUARD DOWN

YOU REALLY GAVE MY GIRL A SYMBOLIC FRODO STYLE ANGSTY STAB WOUND SO SHE CAN NEVER FORGET THE PAIN OF THAT DAY ARE YOU KIDDING ME RIGHT NOW WITH THIS

DEKU AHHHHHH

oh my god lol. I’m so curious what’s going to happen next week. my money for the record is on them bonding in a STRICTLY PLATONIC WAY over their respective dead(!??!?!) villains rather than a Romance Thing happening. but I wouldn’t be bothered if they do go there though just so long as we don’t get any timeskip epilogues where they’ve all got fucking kids and such now. don’t you do that to me Horikoshi Kouhei. I swear to god two chapters left omfg. this is really happening. the inexorable march of time etc. etc. ahhhhhhhhh

[solsticelosthermind]

Rather than spam the shit out of tumblr, I made my way through this with an open document as a screaming buddy and y'all can have uhhh 6.5k of sobbing under the cut about volume one as a treat while I try to find the text limit on a post I guess.

So like. Here be spoilers. blame @spliqi.

Why is the art so fucking pretty though. Like. look at him. He's gorgeous. There's so much visibly wrong with him. How does he look both more unhinged and softer than the canon version. I love him so much.

The purple eyes and the wings are going to fucking kill me and this is the cover—

What do you mean the first thing we see upon opening the book is akutagawa with white dove's wings and blood over his heart and on the edge of his mouth and Atsushi behind him with a black bird splaying its wing over his shoulder? The pastel purple highlighting is going to make me bite things especially since the page beside it has a much darker violent purple. I have not even read this page. This does not bode well for me.

HE FUCKING SUICIDE MISSIONED THIS??? Why is the bruised purple moon screwing me up. FULLY thought he went in with 'they're all dead' but like "WE're all dead" is?? Oh my god. I cannot ramble for every single thought i will take a week to make it through one fucking book that way but the temptation is there because what do you mean he didn't intend to come back?? Everyone is dead but GIN ISNT?!

Oh my god why is chuuya so fucking pretty all the time. The red on dazai. Their nearly-matching eyes but the expression on Chuuya's face??? Is?? He wants to bite things. Atsushi is beautiful?? His fucking eyes are straight up gold?? Why did i think that was fanfic-only. his eyes are gold. Visual Continuity and all but why are his bangs like that if he's been out of the orphanage and around both chuuya and kouyou for several years. Is he cutting them with his claws.

Disassociation King Akutagawa. But also can I just— "being beaten by adults" is so?? If he's been wrecking havoc in the slums with Rashomon enough to supposedly draw dazai's attention than who the fuck is landing a hit on this kid. Or like, was it just that he's untrained and reactive and his collateral is probably insane because untrained and reactive. Y'all. I'm supposed to believe this kid is violence inherent when he's got an ability that can eat people and he's getting the shit kicked out of him??

Why are the other kids being a dick to the one guy trying to keep them safe actually. I'm calling bullshit man, if akutagawa's the sole protector then like, they'd be treating him like the sheep did chuuya. Uh. Before the whole murder attempt. They need him.

This is why I can't liveblog on tumblr yall would've drawn and quartered me by now for spamming

Fully believed that dog was drinking from the juice box and had to zoom in.

…"let's all buy steamed sweet potatoes!" immediately gets jumped goddamnit I would murder for these kids and they've been on the page for .5 seconds. Akutagawa showing up like that?? Baby. Baby boy. Perfect angel.

They're starving homeless kids and I'm failing to see where I'm supposed to think literally anything Akutagawa does is like, too much of a reaction. God he's so pretty.

"Akutagawa-san!" THOSE ARE HIS KIDS MOTHERFUCKER look at him standing right in front of them!! One slice; economical. He made his point and HE COULD HAVE just killed the guy but he didn't. Y'all. I love him.

"Okay," he says while squatting down to give the hurt kid a piggy back, "let's go home." Im fucking squealing. If this kid had been given even a fucking OUNCE of a chance he'd be the sweetest fucking man alive. He cares so much fuck yoooou and your heartless cur nonsense. He's the one who patched them up too becuase I said so

Why is he sitting perched on the desk staring out the window like a fucking owl. He's ridiculous. This boy literally never had two seconds to put his guard down. What if i cry.

The mom in me is going insane i need everyone to know this. I know whats coming for these kids but they're mine now. The little guy going heehehehee? Adopted

I can't get over Akutagawa on the DESK you fucking gargoyle

Oh fuck that's how they get caught up in the mafia nonsense?? Listen if your mobsters are so bad at being mobsters they just fucking DROP DIAMONDS near homeless orphans like, take the loss. You're an idiot. This should not have made me laugh. Akutagawa just fucking stabs it out of the kids hand. But also the way they treat akutagawa is killing me. He's literally oda.

THE PANEL WITH AKUTGAWA BEFORE THE MOON IM DYING I NEED IT ON MY EYELIDS. How does this kid know rashomon can't cut a diamond. Also. why can't rashomon cut a diamond if it cuts everything else. Don't give me only a diamond can cut a diamond when that ability cuts space. (Things to file under 'he's untrained i guess?? Street rat too busy trying to keep a bunch of babies alive to put a lot of thought into expanding the use of the creature in his shirt. Priorities.)

Oh gin. My lovely wonderful amazing gin who makes no sense to me in this verse so im preemptively blaming dazai. Smartest one there, immediately clocks the problem, and akutagawa instantly attempts to do damage control. How IS THIS A KID WHO WAS TOO WILD AND SELFISH TO LOVE HUH

Aw fuck the headshot's done so well I hate it my whole heart just dropped and I knew this was coming—

that kid was like maybe ten, at best. Fuck

AKUTAGAWA's FUCKING EYE. Oh he's so panicked. Also why do they continually give him the most insane eyelashes. I approve of the eyelashes. Can we stay here with the eyelashes and not make me read the part where they riddle a bunch of starving babies with holes. No? Fine. deep breath

This is so silly. Why are you idiots so happy to murder infants. You could've brought them in and groomed them into little mafia monsters or whatever but nah, you're republicans like, murder is fun and free. How is this kid begging for help with a hole between his eyes. I am talking so much shit becuase I saw akutagawa's face and im going to fucking CRY

Actually can we talk about this real quick. The narrative in canon is all, "he's always been like this," when like. Clearly he hasn't. There's NO coherent reaction here. He's losing his shit, he doesn't know what to do, they're all falling and bleeding and dying at his feet and he's just screaming their names, he reaches for one of them because he doesnt know whaat to DO, RASHOMON DOES NOT ONCE MAKE AN APPEARANCE. HIS INSTINCT WAS TO GO TO THEM PHYSICALLY. HE DIDNT FUCKING CALL RASHOMON. Unless the darkened sleeve counts but that's not lashing out, it's not reacting, it's armoring one sleeve probably unconsciously. Like?? His reaction was to go to them. I'm going to die.

And it's gin? It's gin who thinks past it. It's gin who stops him from grabbing that one kid, it's gin who pulls him out with her and gin saves him but he couldn't save anyone. Even himself. Oh fuck he's hit? Ohmy fucking fuck asldkfjsa;gDid gin get fucking shot or is that from the GLASS SHE THREW THEM OUT OF. Why do we keep throwing gin out windows. Stop it.

He's so upset. Gin's so upset. They're so fucking young. they're so young.

"I'm not going to win," he says, he's going to go make them pay, because what's the point in the guard dog living if his charges are gone. Right. Im cool. So cool. Not a mess. Gin's face has me tearing up

Hi. "The realm of death would have felt better than this." So. Okay. He's literally like, crazy with grief right now. Holding the kid who froze to death?? I need 50x blankets, some stuffies and like, a cocoa to pretend I'm fine right now

IF THAT WAS LIFE THAN THIS IS VENGEANCE. Okay but like. Grief feels like that kinda. A punishment for having loved. For having, in his case, failed. He's trying to hurt himself while hurting those that took his kids. I already need therapy who let me read this.

HE HURTS HIMSELF MORE TO BE ABLE TO GET CLOSER. I feel like cheering isn't what I'm meant to do here but. Y'know. My boy's sharp. Hell yeah.

Wait wait wait wait are the guys who killed them not port mafia?? They're MEETING portmafia? Presumably dazai. The fuck. Also deeply funny in a very not funny way that aku came up with this so quick and it's WORKING because he KNOWS PEOPLE LIKE THIS but also really just reinforces for me how using rashomon to kill isn't his first instinct because like. He's standing in the middle of them. They'd be dead by now if it was.

HE USES RASHOMON LIKE A FUCKING KNIFE oh oh oh my god he has to be up cLOSE he doesn't know how to make it go too far?? Screaming he took this fuckers HEAD CLEAN OFF. Fuck off im so proud right now actually something something he's usually presented in such a way where I feel like I'm supposed to think he's stupid but? I do not. He is not stupid. He's just. Y'know. Tunnel vision baby.

But also of COURSE he is that is how you stay not dead

Oh my god the—the latching onto the second guy and SPIKE EXPLOSION?? Insane. Absolutely living for the way he's drawn here. Rashomon coming off his arms like that is so pretty. That's an extension of himself!! This kid is moving so fast. The fuck do you mean he cut the third guy's feet off. There are no rules but also this is making me remember some godawful horror movie my sister made me watch that boiled down to rich people paying to be able to murder other people and one guy was being eaten alive and someone else had his Achilles slit and tried to run and oh guess what i still hate it so much but akutagawa's face makes it worth it

how many villains souls should I drag with me to hell I am fully not seeing where I should not be on this kid's side y'all. Dazai explain your bullshit to me. You can't because your reasons are just oda and oda would be livid with you on all fronts this boy is a protector fight me

where the fuck did this kid get multiple grenades

The single eye ball. "Is he trying to die." "Doesn't he value his own life" Bsd is a comedy. He's literally slaughtering you and making it look easy because you fucking killed all of his kids

I WAS IN THE PROCESS OF TEACHING THE VALUE OF A LIFE TO YOU he says. The value of the lives they TOOK im insane He's not even trying to dodge any of these bullets this kid is literally letting them riddle him full of holes because then it'll be over but he's taking them all with him. Right. Okay. Im not okay.

But also this little image of him with his arms thrown out and Rashomon trailing from them and also from his sides so he looks like a six legged spider?? He's a bug in every universe.

He could've used rashomon just there. He's so angry and so hurt and so fucked up he ripped the guy's throat out with his teeth. Do you know how much pressure that takes. Human teeth are bad at this.

This boy never once saw himself as human. That's. That's what this is. He had a single purpose; he failed it. He's seeking his own punishment alongside serving theirs.

It's been years since the last time i had fresh meat. I don't know what the fuck i thought that was part of but i did not think it was this. 100000/10 A+ unhinged little gremlin boy here to ensure he haunts them even in death.

There are 2k words in this doc and im only on page 40/192. Fuck. How does this kid live he's been shot like a thousand times and he's not even flinching because who fucking CARES right?? He has a job to do.

I lied he fell over. NOT liking the way he lays there exactly like he does when he dies for atsushi. Nope. No. Stop it.

This last guy's like. Having a breakdown. And it's funny. Are you telling me akutagawa fell over and either A) played dead to get this idiot to come closer and it worked or B) passed the fuck out frmo blood loss and this guy was like HA FUCK YOU and decided to KICK HIM rather than shoot him in the head to make sure the demon boy was really dead. Like. You deserved this, my guy. You literally did this to yourself. Twice.

I don't even care I'm fully here for blood soaked and unhinged tiny akutagawa

Why did you turn him into sushi, though. Did you just pick up his faCE to make sure he's dead when he's in fifty million pieces.

Not aku realizing he could've done that without getting himself killed fuck

Dazai's here and im angry already. "Under your own free will," rather than a "product of your environment" bro. Bro. Bro do you know what you do to atsushi. Because it's remove free will and force him to react as a product of the environment you create for him. Shut the fuck up.

"Do you want to kill me? You're so stupid," says the guy who just watched some kid try to avenge his friends deaths rather than stop it at any point in time because like. He could've. "Haha you're so violent," says the guy who goes on to torment atsushi into literally eating people in this verse knowing full well he torments akutagawa into whatever the fuck is wrong with him in canon.

"Dying for revenge," dazai says like he's not using this whole universe as some weird revenge against the universe where oda dies

Okay I will grant him the ONE (1) point that it leaves gin alone if he dies.

I'm going to counter it with why the fuck doesn't gin give a shit that their whole family just got slaughtered. Why is GIN so aloof from all this. Why is gin only interacting with akutagawa. What did you say to gin before all this started dazai, huh? What prophecy did you whisper in that kid's ear that you helped make manifest to get her to LEAVE HER BROTHER BEHIND when that is ALL SHE EVER HAD and clearly ALL SHE EVER CARED ABOUT

Absolutely not taking anything dazai says here seriously. This is nonsense to me. Gin's as safer in the city while akutagawa dealt with this. Should he have made an effort to not get dead to get back to her because she's not dead and she needs him? Yeah probably. Does it make complete sense to me why he did what he did? Crystal clear. Can those things coexist? YES.

I don't care y'all, gin should've followed his stupid ass and told him they'll do it together because she needs him alive but also those guys like. Should die about it. So. Unpopular opinion probably. But what the fuck gin

OH MY GOD RASHOMON GOES FUCKING HAM WHEN HE THINKS GINS BEING THREATENED this is literally proving my point this boy loves gin so much? He's yknow a deeply traumatized 14 year old who made a stupid fucking call in the heat of WATCHING EVERYONE DIE?? But the SECOND he things it's GIN they're after he gets MORE VIOLENT than he was two seconds ago

Fuuuuck you dazai and your holier than thou whatever this is bullshit. You make no sense to me unless you literally expect this kid to be able to be fully emotionless like you thought he was and HE NEVER WAS because he's not you! And you're so emotional you're flipping the whole world around for oda! So like! You're failing your own ideals you bitch

WHEN YOU REALIZE YOUR WEAKNESS COME FIND ME he says. And then he kidnaps gin. I dont care that she thinks shes going willingly. That's—-that reeks of set up and we don't see how he gets her to leave akutagawa behind, but it's not hard to imagine he fed her some shit about aku being fucked up and that's why she is the way she is now becuase like SHE WAS NOT LIKE THAT BEFORE. He literally kidnapped her and left aku to die of a million bullets. (Seriously how is he not dead) what the fuck is the weakness? CARING about people?? Not meticulously planning out his revenge arc first???

I would like to curb stomp this dazai actually

The sheer agony in how akutagawa hates himself so fully but he's too weak and hurt to go find gin but she NEEDS him and im UNWELL

4.5 years pass?? How wierd is the timeline here? Is he almost 19 and thus atsushi is 16-17? Or like. Are they older when this happened to keep them the same ages? Is it backward for no reason and atsushi's 20 while akutagawa's 18? We have no idea do we

He's eating weeds beside the river, alone, and day dreaming about soup. This is the violent wild animal you ditched dazai?

How many bullets are still in this kid. Can he walk through metal detectors do you think. Is he mostly scar tissue now. How is he nOT DEAD

Fuck i hit 3k. Im on page 54. Kill me. Im so MAD. HOW DOES GIN GO FROM THROWING THEM OUT A WINDOW TO LEAVING HIM TO DIE BECAUSE SOME FUCKING ONE EYED TWINK SAID SO

Listen I was a stupid kid who lashed out physically more than once but there is very little that would've made me worse than someone telling me some shit like ditch your shitty sibling. And I have never even liked my siblings. #firstborn solidarity i guess.

Not until I SAVE MY SISTER. Exactly. Also the way he perks up at the mugwort. Why is he so cute. How does he know what mugwort is, who taught him herbs. I'm headcanoning the got picked up by a hedgewitch post shootout and that's how he didn't die and also how he learned herbs and why he likes growing things, That's the dead woman's coat he stole. Boom. I'm so full of shit someone tell me why he is like this

Okay but. Does anyone else feel like Dazai and that whole thing really just reinforced this behavior, he strikes first and asks never with oda. The BAGS under his eyes

Also. Hi. Hello. Oda.just. Insert incoherent gesture here. oda.

Oda who fucking punches him in the gut again and when the winds knocked out of him just scoops him up. He's so tiny, he is SO TINY. How tall is oda, is Aku efen more of a rail here than in canon, I'm dying why is he so small.

Can I also just say. That it is. Extremely. Attractive. How oda just goes, well, Is anyone gonna claim the feral weed eating kid and then does n o t wait for an answer, this is his feral weirdo now thanks. Matches Akutagawa's weird so easily. Unflappable. I love him. These two just blink at each other and probably have entire conversations that way.

Stop drawing Akutagawa so pretty. Stop it. Do not ever stop. This is really reinforcing that one joke I made ages ago about how canon Atsushi jsut blurts pretty the second he sees beast Aku and canon Aku is like the FUCK?? While beast Aku is ?? And beast Atushi straight up laughs in his face and Atushi debates walking off a cliff about it. I'm right.

Why is he covered in blood on the next page. Why does that not detract from the pretty.

Flash to oda's death. Also some nonsense. People live to save themselves. squints Dazai internalized that in the stupidest way possible didnt he. Wait does Dazai have the bandage on the opposite side???? Bitch why are you dreaming about oda he would be so mad at you I'm so serious please tell me I get oda yelling at him at some point I know he tries to talk to him eventually.

I love the mafia windows though. Those rooms must be hell to keep cool in the summer lmao

Aku where did you get a whole new fit. Did the ada give you these clothes like Atsushi's stuff. He's just staring out the window watching the sun rise, I could cry, this boy has never been safe enough to sleep.

He doesn't know how phones work. I said this to roadtripwithlucifer and I'll say it again but like HOW DOES NO ONE CLOCK THAT THE STREET RAT HAS A STREET RAT EDUCATION which means NONE. He knows Jack shit! This boy probably cannot read or write and has never in his life held a phone what IS THIS

I've never lived in such luxury he says about an empty room and oda's like visible confusion? street rat you found him eating WEEDS come ON

Ugh an entry exam right off the bat, I know I'm in the minority but the whole concept bothers me so much. "Prove to us you're a good person," or whatever when a) all of them are gray as fuck and b) reactions are impossible to predict, hinge heavily on the life you've lived and just how the squishy thing in your skull interprets electrical signals. Oh also, you can,,, train them. Did Kunikida have to monologue about his ideals during his entrance exam before he made a choice, because I would not be surprised .

Which really is jsut a rant because full offense there's a nonzero chance I would have been like…. no. Oda was vague as fuck and I don't even know what he wanted but I'm here and now you're being weird as hell too and like, I don't trust y'all so I'm out lmfao

Oh my god, Aku just barges in I'm wheezing kuni is like ?? That's a new one is he stupid. No. I mean kinda, but no, he just,,, doesn't have a reason not to.

WHEEZING TANIZAKI FREEZES HES SO CONFUSED bc Aku walks right up I'm dying everyone is like this guy's nuts which is nice actually bc I felt like everyone was kind of making fun of Atsushi for having a very reasonable breakdown

Meanwhile Aku's like. Try me. Dead faced. I'm in love. But also it makes sense because he knows he can handle it!! And like who gives a shit if he can't, all that'll happen is he dies and some jackass with him lmao Depressionnnn but also. He's not WRONG

Oh shit Tanizaki nearly died. Whoops. THATS WHY YOU DONT PLAY THIS GAME WITHOUT PRIOR IDEA OF HOW SOMEONE MIGHT REACT JFC. Akutagawa's squinting at everyone and wondering why they're insane which is so funny to me since they're so sure he's mental, like, y'all. No im still siding with him tbh

Her brother, Aku says with wide sad eyes. He's tracking nothing else. But also the 'you made those last night' had me cackling ngl

SITTING AT THE TABLE. This is so funny to me. Resting bitch face of all time, he's just vibing. However this implied other folks tend to be pissed post exam and like, yeah. Yeah I hope so. That's fucked.

HE WAS ONLY UPSET BC HE THOUGHT TANIZAKI WAS ROUGHT ON NAOMI I love him he's so silly the second she's like no it's fine he's like oh cool AND THEN IT PROVES HE WAS JUST VIBING BT SHOWING HIS FACE NEVER CHANGED AHAHAHAA I'm squishing him. Cackling what do you mean kuni was like he's mad at YOU so I don't care aodfjngsodjfg. Tanizaki is handling this so bad it's great. Wait he calls him -San? So he's? Older? The timeline is going to bother me forever

"I don't have likes or dislikes," names things he likes and dislikes. TANIZAKI HOW DO YOU KEEP MAKING THIS WORSE

Okay I'm annoyed actually. The waitress slips, akutagawa calmly scoops her up AND all the things she was carrying and asks if they're all okay and you're telling me kuni nearly pulled a gun and started thinking about bloodlust when there was literally zero of that happening. If anything THIS was a better clue of who he is as a person than the fake bomber and kuni's all ohhh he's so VIOLENT. I'm like? Am I reading the story I'm supposed to be reading?? WHAT about this was violent. He showed great control and reflexes and care for the waitress and the ada members, fight me. His drive for justice is heavily skewed because of the life he's lived. Like. He HAS one it's just not for police-justice because that doesn't exist in the FUCKING STREETS

Why does fukuzawa look so sad here who hurt him

Why does the ada treat prospective hires like they must be executed for failing

Wait no this means atsushi's showing up soon. I'm going to go do literally anything else because seeing im is going To Make Me cry

…and im back bc roadtripwithlucifer gave me sad eyes. Why do all of you want me to cry.

Two guys just had their heads blown off and i am so tempted to insert another image into this shitshow because there's a tiny little guy in the back going 😮 and its taking me OUT

"Stop firing," because your aim sucks, "switch to armor piercing," how is that going to help the shitty aiming though

HOLY SHIT. H O L Y S H I T. Holy FUCKING FUCK?? The tiger?? Oh my god. Okay. Well. That guy's. Very dead. But also. The TIGER LOOKS SO GOOD shut up im ignoring that he's eating people it's fine it's not fine oh my god he bit the fucking head off??

No im back on but how did they draw the tiger so good actually. Because like. That's not a Tiger. That's a beast currently wearing the form of a tiger and i can't quite pin down WHAT it is that makes it look that way. Maybe the weird angles and the eye-glint. How did that big fucking cat just disappear. Every single person in this room just pissed themselves. Am definitely not meant to be delighted but I am.

Oh. Ohhh the guy yelling ordersss and then it pulls back to show he's alone because atsushi already got everyone else. Holy fuck. Chills

CAN ATSUSHI SPEAK AS THE TIGER IN THIS. IS THAT WHAT IM FUCKING SEEING. ATSUSHI CAN S P E A K AS THE TIGER?! Oh. Ooooh. That's. Oh fuck me. Why isn't that everywhere. Wait no the guy gets his light up and it's human atsushi!! The phantom of the tiger is what he was seeingggggggg bc he COUDLNT SEE HIM IN THE DARK. Oh my god. The legend literally preceding him. That was SO well done actually!!! Screaming!!! He lets the last one see him coming,,, i'm drawing so many parallels to tiny akutagawa in my head right now. Atsushi's so SMALL in that coat. Half-lidded eyes, exhausted, dead-eyed. The running eyeliner?? Was a CHOICE. Grabby hands why is he wearing eyeliner and can we get canon atsushi to try it out please. He's so fucked UP and I am WEEPY

The weepy is worse now. Pg108, okay, atsushi's shadow. That's— that's akutagawa's canon silhouette. Hands in pockets, high collar, fluffy hair.

That's. The ghost that should be in this position. Okay. Fuck me sideways

Atsushi why are your bangs still like this. Am i focusing on that so I don't focus on his eyes? Yes. Yes i am.

SCREAMING SCREAMING SCREAMING okay OKAY. TWO FINGERS. He uses two fingernails, barely touching, to tear the man's throat out. Breathing into a PAPER BAG. The precision, the knowledge, the way this has been beaten into him because LOOK AT HIS FACE he's so fucking disassociated oh my fucking god. Dazai's perfect little assassin indeed. And to get it he only had to break him no biggie, definitely better than akutagawa right. (Literally never letting this go what the fuck was that whole spiel EVEN supposed to mEAN. You did the same thing to both boys! You made yourself their whole purpose!!CHEWING ON THE WALLS)

..every single day someone's trying to murder dazai? How bad of a boss is he honestly because it seems like folk don't really try to go after mori that often but EVERY DAY someone's after dazai?? Dazai what are you DOING in those towers

Okay so did he not cut his throat. Did he just dramatically nick him.

"He was death itself gently descending…" gently??? Also look more dehumanization of sskk by literally everyone

Im so sorry but Bad Guy went HEH WE HAVE BOMBS and im laughing

Im laughing not at all now that atsushi's holding himself and talking about how he's afraid of pain and being hurt and death, and how death can't find him if he is death, and he's standing there so small and hunched into himself with eyes that have seen far too much and cry more often than they're dry.

contrasted directly with his eyes on the next page, where the smudges resemble tiger stripes, and he's not small and sad anymore, he's a predator

Can i kill him? KYOKA????? Oh my fucking god KYOKA?! IT IS KYOUKA SCREAMING CRYING THROWING UP oh my go shes so fucking young. She looks like a ghost. This man is fully losing control of his bowels

THE BOSS SAID LET ONE LIVE. but he almost hurt you im. I can't. I CANNOT. Dying over the guy being like oh my god its the girl who killed 35 people!! Like my guy i think there are more than that dead literally right next to you. But MORE IMPORTANTLY

Atsushi standing beside kyouka. They're both so hollowed out. They're both so wrong. They're so young and i keep saying that and I WILL keep saying that they're babies THEY LOOK LIKE THEY RAN OUT OF TEARS but they stand so close because everything's terrible. What the FUCK

"She did betray the mafia," "I came back for him," what if I walk off a cliff. Kyouka baby. Ohhh im gonna cry, that's the only panel so far where atsushi's eyes are clear and there's no streaks beneath them. I CAME BACK FOR ATSUSHI and atsushi's eyes are BRIGHT and pretty. How is this allowed.

…only to have atsushi be drawn with a skull for a face right after. I am a MESS. What the fCUK the wing is back angel of death etc etc he's so fucking scared all the time

Why are you giving your name up so easy. Do you not even have a connection to it anymore? Have you divorced yourself from the idea of being human so much that the name is jibberish?

Seriously though i went back and I still wanna know why we get the throat pinch and then a dramatic dark line. Wait no im dumb it's probably motion blur of him removing his hand as another 'I could've taken your throat' skldjfagh

Fuck you he was the goddamn tiger. The fucking COLLAR.

The way Atushi's eyes go to pinpricks when hirostu shows up. Crying. But also tachiharaaaa!! KYOUKA AND HIROTSU TRYING TO TAKE CARE OF ATSUSHI and atsushi's not letting themmmm because what if dazai has more for him to do which makes me think of canon aku snapping open the phone to be like what's next and thanks!! I hate it!! "I'll never betray his orders he saved me" NO WRONG but also!! How is 'take five to stop bleeding' BETRAYING ORDERS ATSUSHI

Dazai what the FUCK did you DO

Oh my god the whiplash of going back to oda Jesus Christ. But also oda beloved by the elderly? Adorable. I just yknow. Still caught on the fucking pit of despair atsushi's in

…no one can make sense of oda's expression. No one can make sense of akutagawa's expression. They're sitting there like two peas in a very autistic pod I love them

"You been eating good," okay how long has he been hanging in the dorm. Like. A day.

squints aku what stupid shit are you thinking that oda's premonition is you cutting his head off. I can't take this seriously. He's. He's still bowing. And trying to stab oda. Just? To see if he can?? What?? Cackling. Having the time of my life. Oda's playing. Barely even moving. Kuni's losing his shit. Tanizaki probably threw himself out the window.akutagawa you're ridiculous you LIKE the cafe you could've waited until you were NOT IN the CAFE with NICE FOOD.

Anyway oda+aku perfect comedy duo

'When i picked him up we were attacked," wait what. Or do you mean when HE attacked. Wheezing. What.

Akutagawa looking so serene, "i am very lucky," while literally trying to take oda's head off and being stopped by a SPOON. This is wonderful I'm staying in this scene because it's silly

LIFE WOULD BE EAISER IF MY FOES WERE ALL IN TRAINING ROOMS. Im keeping him in my POCKET

Kuni's having a stroke, meanwhile oda's calmly like I picked up this insane kid because he wants to kill a couple people i want this scene from tanizaki's pov it woud just be screaming

"let's go introduce him to ranpo!" Ranpo's going to be a brat

Kunikida: are you forgetting something

The cafe: trashed

Im going to lose my mind

Yeah. Yep. Called it. Moment of levity before we're back in port mafia torment nexus with atsushi.

Chuuya. Oh. Nope, don't like that at all. Dazai sitting there smiling like that makes my stomach roil honestly. He knows how fucked everything is. Most insane man in the universe.

Christ he really did make chuuya into his dog here didn't he. Do NOT like chuuya snapping at atsushi one biiiit.

His head is mine to take, chuuya says right after snarling and nearly flattening atsushi for getting too close. Right. Okay. Skk is the extra fucked up flavor of sskk in here. Like. Canonically. This is a real thing. What the fuck am i reading.

Oh the tiny smile when atsushi reports he did so good at murder. He did his job like a good boy. Im going to be ill.

Oh fuck ME he drops aku's name?like atsushi should know it. And when atsushi's like ?? He brushes it off. I am SICKKK.

Slit pupil atsushi—

LIKE A CALM LAKE he says IVE NEVER FALTERED SINCE THAT TIME. He's trying to reassure dazai he's being GOOD and Dazai immediately triggers him. Wow. Okay. Okay. I knew he was conditioned but like this is brutal. Akutagawa retained some semblance of self; he snaps and snarls and argues even while desperate for dazai's gold star. But atsushi… atsushi's lost entirely.

GIN. Fuck does SHE KNOW what this ass wants with her brother?? Does she think he's HELPING somehow? Gin i know you've been like brainwashed to hell and back but Christ girl atsushi is having a breakdown at your feet and im not sure how you see your brother as the bad guy

Especially since we cut to that brother attempting to put together a window he broke while looking like he's got cotton between his ears. Tiniest little silly goose of a man. Two toothpicks wide.

[caligvlasaqvarivm]

How would the others feel/react to karkat and eridan being moirails?

Or tav and gamzee being moirails? or kanaya and aradia being moirails! (I don't remember if you had mentioned them in your re-write) or equius being the auspistise of dave and tavros??

idk I like to explore the relationships and feelings of the characters

haha i'll save erikar for last because it's the funniest one

Kanaya and Aradia are pretty much a no-brainer to people - they're both fairly calm and collected already, so while they are serving to curb each others' worst tendencies (Aradia's recklessness and Kanaya's willingness to stop caring about people she doesn't like), they're really chill and overall not a wholly unexpected development once Kanaya's moirallegiance with Vriska falls through. they're girl best friends. girl married. they confer with each other about who to kill. when they finally do agree on murdering someone's ass Watch Out. Since neither of them particularly need the moirallegiance - it helps, but it's never going to be an emergency measure for the two of them, unlike the other highbloods - it's kind of deemphasized for them both, and they tend to gravitate more towards their flushed partners. also, do yall think about how kanaya fights the undead and aradia communes with ghosts. the spooky wlw vibes

gamzee and tavros, meanwhlie, garners a kind of "oh god, of COURSE it's those two" response. They rank among the two most disliked members of the team, with Tavros's blatant weakness a mirror to many other characters, who have insecurities about being weak - and with Gamzee's facade as the super chill clown at odds with their society's insistence on death, murder, and violence. However, finding true acceptance in Tavros, Gamzee would probably drop the act, which ironically lets him make more genuine connections and friendships with the rest of the team; meanwhile, having the super scary clown by Tavros's side makes Tavros much more comfortable with standing up for himself and asserting his own independence, because if he doesn't, gamzee will probably start killing people talking to gamzee makes him feel braver because gamzee genuinely believes in him and likes him.

dave/tavros/equius is just treated by the rest of the team as Extremely Funny. Dave's friends won't stop giving him shit over it. however, tavros and equius keep getting people who go "nice work" and "congrats man" because a stable and healthy auspicetism like they have is super rare. dave is in hell

pale erikar is definitely one of those things where, once it DOES happen, everyone around them is like "oh god, it was so obvious all along." like, the people on their team were vaguely aware that the two of them were buddies, but Karkat was always privately embarrassed by how often he talked to eridan (canonically, All The Time), and nobody fucking listens to eridan anyway, so for the longest time, their friend group kind of shrugged and assumed they were platonic friends, and any weird vibes they might've picked up to the contrary were just Karkat and his vascillatory too-many-feelings nonsense because he's got such a big bleeding pusher.

In fact, the only person on the team who seems to notice they've got a pale something-something going on is gamzee, but gamzee has a palecrush on karkat so he's deliberately not telling anyone and trying to keep them apart lmao. feferi like unironically notices that eridan and karkat talk so much that eridan has nothing left to talk about with his actual moirail, but doesn't connect the dots that eridan is having an emotional affair (i'm sorry feferi you deserve better HAHAHA)

once it DOES happen, there's kind of a vibe of "wait, really, karkat? THAT guy?" because their relationship - on the outside - reads as incredibly non-traditional. it's implied that insults and death threats are, like, just how they regularly talk to each other (after karkat threatens eridan's life and thrashes him verbally, eridan goes "haha i can always count on you for some good ironic banter, nobody else gets our sense of humor ^w^"), and karkat can basically calm eridan down just by saying hello, whereas eridan keeps karkat calm by saying the most bizarre, hostile, unempathetic shit anyone's ever heard (imagine the "are you like, legit sad?" post). they both have MASSIVE insecurities about appearing weak to other people, so all of their feelings jam stuff happens so far out of the public eye that people genuinely think it never happens at all.

the only thing, publicly, that changes about how they already hang out with each other is that sometimes they'll make out... which you are generally not supposed to do with your moirail. actually everybody on the meteor (besides the humans that don't Get It) are like bro... you two are NASTY. more of karkat's vascillatory, cant-keep-his-quads straight nonsense. Eridan's down for anything as long as he's getting attention, so he's a pretty enthusiastic partner, but then afterwards he's always like "this is why you can't get a concupiscent date :///// you keep doing shit like this w/ your moirail. you have problems"

like that's one of the funniest things about pale erikar imo... it's that 90% of the time it's KARKAT who needs calming down. eridan's always on the verge of a murderous breakdown, but what that means is that he's also really good at hanging on without breaking, and it's actually super rare that he needs to be pulled back from flying off the handle (esp. as compared to sober!gamzee and equius). karkat, meanwhile, is always on a hair fucking trigger, so the biggest change the friend group sees is actually in karkat, who's so much more chill to be around now that his insecurities about weakness are being patched by having the team's ultra-strong sea dweller at his beck and call. and like, yeah, having karkat as his buddy makes eridan much less desperate for companionship with other people, which makes him more tolerable, but he still mostly sucks to be around, he's just less in-your-face about it. so people put up with the grossness of the vascillatory stuff, and cringe of it being ERIDAN of all people, because they're like, well, he's making karkat happy.

[physics-of-one-piece]

@allmightskitten I fckn cried.

I WILL STRANGLE VERGO WITH MY OWN TWO HANDS, I WILL STRANGLE HIM.

I wanted to kill Vergo while watching canon eps (especially Law's flashback) but my need to kill Vergo now is even greater for Corazon's Flower Shop.

Bcs he fucked Rosi & Law's life up not once. Didn't want to leave them alone in this new life, and decided to fuck them up TWICE.

He fckn dared. He fckn dared. Twice.

And not only Rosi. Lami, too.

HE FCKN DARED TO GO AFTER MY GIRL LAMI. AFTER MY GIRL TRAFALGAR D. WATER LAMI.

I'M GONNA FCKN...

THAT FUCKER.

I'L STRANGLE HIM.

At least we got some Tsuru & Doffy - and FUCK great Doffy's going for a loophole, are we surprised? No. What killed me during this scene was this.

FUCK IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS bcs it's true but damn it my heart hurts it hurts OH GOD JUST SHOOT ME INSTEAD OF ROSI IN THE SNOW AT THIS POINT, GOD 😭😭

Also, the Doffy & Law tutoring scene in canon universe at the beginning, I was weeping, my BABIES. And Doffy lighting up when he knows Rosi is back

AAAAAAAAAAA 😭😭😭 MY BABIES 😭😭😭😭

I'm a fckn wreck like Law. (Sobbing)

My ass at Vergo:

MEET ME AT THE DENNY'S PARKING LOT, VERGO, ALL I'VE GOT IS MY GUITAR BUT I'LL SLAM IT ON YOUR HEAD YOU PIECE OF SHIT AND THEN I'LL STRANGLE YOU TO DEATH, YOU PIECE OF HUMAN SHIT -

Where the fuck is Luffy, I need Luffy to go Gear 5, commit some necessary 1st degree murder. Let Law tell him, let Luffy gather the gang and let them fuck Vergo up at a parking lot with the Heart Squad+Lami, I don't care anymore I NEED VERGO TO DIE. I NEED HIM GONE YESTERDAY.

Or Rosinante. Just make it be Rosinante to kill Vergo at this point. I would ASCEND if that happens.

Or Lami. She's a D. too, let my girl fuck that asshole up.

VERGO FCKN TRIED TO FUCK UP LAMI & LAW'S RELATIONSHIP I THINK HE HAS SOME SORTA THING AGAINST SIBLINGS. ASSHOLE.

SOME OF THEM SHOULD HAVE STAYED DEAD AND NOT BEEIN REINCARNATED/RELOCATED ETC ETC AND ONE OF THEM IS VERGO.

As you can see, I am totally processing this chapter well, hahaha HAHAHAHA

HA.

😭😭😭😭😭

(me during Doffy tutoring Law + Doffy LIGHTING UP when he knows Rosi came back)

(me after Law & Rosi's scene)

Me during Bepo & Lami encountering Vergo scene:

My ass when I saw Vergo talk shit about Law to Lami - LAMI:

SAY YOUR PRAYERS, YOU BITCH, VERGO, IF NOBODY FUCKS YOU UP, I WILL.

LEAVE ME ALONE I AM PROCESSING.

Also, fuck off with your shit. Revenge is healthy. Also, Doffy was the one who razed it to the ground - you know, with the Birdcage? The only property damage Law did in Dressrosa was that rampant tower he threw at Doffy and the bridge! Luffy fckn smashed the city fighting Doffy. Luffy has a record of property damage!

YOU DO NOT TALK SHIT ABOUT MY BOY TRAFALGAR LAW TO HIS SISTER. YOU DO FUCKING NOT.

REVENGE IS HEALTHY. SCREW THE HATERS. TAKE YOUR REVENGE, LAW. REVENGE IS HEALTHY.

Vergo is just jealous Doffy never fucked him. You ain't his type, Vergo, walk away, buddy. (I fully support Verdoffy I think they cute but they ain't it in Corazon's Flower Shop you know) If you ruin Doffy's chances with Rosi, it's you who's gonna get shot, buddy - and I will cheer as I have cheered when Big Mom went down, I fckn lit firecrackers in my living room.

He's jealous of the bond Doffy & Rosi have. Even through the flashbacks of canon, it's clear Doffy never got over Rosi's death (I MEAN THAT'S CANON to me). You don't fucking deserve Doffy's dick, especially not now. Doffy will fckn NOTICE Rosi is a wreck and you know what, expose Vergo, Rosi, expose that bastard. EXPOSE. HIM.

This chapter was wonderfully written. The building "no no no no no" as Law gets the proof — GENUINELY HOW THE FUCK DID VERGO PICK UP THE MESSAGES FROM THAT ANONYMOUS APP?! The fuck! Hacker! Invasion of privacy! Fire him, Doffy, goddamn!

Ooooh, Rosi could use those files as proof against Vergo now, though, cus I don't think Doffy would like having his privacy invaded like that...

OOOOH...

IN SHORT, @allmightskitten YOU COOKED. I love this chapter. Even though I cried for 80% of it.

"crash, then crash and burn"

I mean, I knew it was gonna hurt, but damn, I got hit with Bajrang Gun here.

Medics. Call...

Medics

😭😭😭😭😭

Also, the "are you colourblind?" joke got me cracking up

I am (metaphorically). I too see green flags for both Doffy & Rosi. I AM COLOURBLIND FOR THE DQ BROTHERS. ME ME ME.

🤣🤣

Rosi smashing that camera was HOT and Doffy agrees!

[butwhatifidothis]

I LOVED To Be a Creature, and it genuinely creeped me out to see the things Edelgard and Hubert said to Byleth (though it's the same as the game, stripped out of its voice acting and background music, the dialogue is so much more horrifying). Really makes me wonder if Edelgard's love for Byleth is genuine in any way. Do you think there's any real love there or is it just obsession?

Thank you!!! I had a feeling that placing Edelgard and Hubert's words in a context that isn't meant to make them look flattering would really let their casual racism shine, and I'm glad it's seeming like that is in fact the impression people are getting lol. SO sorry for the late answer btw 😭😭😭

As for whether Edelgard's love is genuine... I got opinions lmao.

got a bit long lmao under the cut it goes

If Edelgard felt the way she does for Byleth on exclusively SS and CF, I could maybe see how this is a "genuine" love (insofar as a love steeped in "I may hate your race but you're special and Not Like The Other Ones because I think you're special to me" can, uh, ever be genuine, in any case). But because Edelgard still feels as strongly towards Byleth on AM and VW where she quite literally never talks to them directly in any meaningful way, it becomes waaaaay more like she's just weirdly obsessed with this person who saved her one singular time ever five years ago from an attack Edelgard set up. It makes the "love" way more forced and contrived and obviously trying to squeeze tears out of the player for standing up against the cute girly trying to murder them. Or, alternatively, it makes Edelgard come off as manipulative, saying that she just wanted to walk with Byleth and it makes her so sad to HAVE to fight Byleth because BYLETH wouldn't stand by HER - and she's saying this on AM/VW to a person she's talked to in conversation a cumulative, what? Hour? Two? Maybe a few days, being nice? Over the course of, being as absolutely generous as physically possible and not counting the five years Byleth was missing... two fucking years? She's shitting herself over fighting this stranger she doesn't fucking know? Yeah, sure buddy, whatever you say - you see what I mean?

And honestly even outside of those two routes, I think it's more that she sees Byleth as being hers rather than actually liking them for who they are. A body to stand next to her and tell her how right she is and comfort her - who doesn't have the background of "I was literally raised to think this is my only purpose in life" muddying the sincerity of the brown-nosing - who also happens to also act as The Perfect Fighter and The Perfect Strategist to actively help her get what she wants. That view of Byleth being a tool doesn't really go away unless they marry her, seen by how they quite literally get nothing for all they've done for Edelgard should they go unmarried to a noble (guess they just weren't meritable enough once their use to her was done).

As well as how much more Edelgard doesn't like Byleth disagreeing with her or otherwise going against her flow than pretty much anyone else in the game - you lose supports points if you don't think the Black Eagle Strike Force name she made is good, she quickly denies the notion that Byleth isn't detached from others/emotions and insists they are just like she is, she gives them the same callous and thoughtless words she was apparently given once in her life while they are in the midst of mourning their recently murdered father so that they get over it already and get back to being useful to her (directly saying she will only reach out her hand when it's time for HER to move forward, not when BYLETH heals from WATCHING THEIR DAD DIE IN THEIR FUCKING ARMS MAYBE A WEEK AGO). She never treats Byleth kindly unless they do everything she wants, which like. Isn't love???? At all????

There's just this... weirdly possessive air Edelgard has around Byleth that always threw me off, especially with how easily she admits to have been willing to kill them so far into CF and how readily she cuts ties with them the second the fighting's done (which is particular because how just how clingy she was to Byleth everywhere else - you know during all that time Byleth had a use to her). Incorporating that into being an intentional part of her character is certainly interesting, but not in a way that's flattering to the idea of Edelgard genuinely being in love with Byleth lmao.

Personally tho, even disregarding almost everything else, the simple explanation is that I don't think you can really sit there and say you love someone while openly hating part of their racial heritage. Wild thought, I know lmao