#whew sorry i've been quite for a bit

[autismagolor]

⚙️~MAGOMARCH 2023~⚙️

yes. you're reading this right. in light of return to dreamland deluxe coming soon, I MADE A MAGOLOR BASED DRAWING CHALLENGE!! it works like all those other month-themed drawing challenges; every day you draw something based on the corresponding prompt! only required thing is that you put magolor in all of these because well. its Magomarch whod you expect to draw /lh

some prompts require a bit more info! i highly suggest you check this section as it can provide context to any prompts you're confused about!

FREE PROMPTS: every Sunday/Magolor Day of March is a free prompt! this is where you can draw whatever you want (as long as it involves magolor ofc)!

DIFFERENT SPECIES: i felt this one was obvious but just in case, this prompt just has you reimagine magolor as a non halcandran species! just be sure he's recognizable dhsdhsdh

CONCEPT: draw one or more of magolor's many concept designs! he's got quite a lot of em! if i find some good images of them i'll be sure to edit this post and put them here but for now you gotta find em yourself sorry HSDHSDH

GIJINKA/CANON: ok this one's fun, and also depends on whether you draw magolor as a gijinka more often than his canon form or vice versa! if you draw him as a gijinka more often, challenge yourself and try to draw him as he canonically looks (stylization is more than ok and is encouraged! i love stylized magolors)! the inverse ofc applies to people who draw his canon form more. you can also draw both at once if you want!

ALT. UNIVERSE draw magolor as he would appear in any sort of AU! this can be an AU of your own creation or even someone else's (if they're ok with it)! you don't have to make an AU solely for this challenge if you have one already.

if anyone else needs a prompt explained, i'll put it here in this list!

-------------------- ok whew that was a lot of reading sorry HSDH i hope this challenge gets some traction! i've been thinking abt it for a while and figured now was as good a time as ever to post it! if you happen to wanna take on this challenge, good luck!!!

DONT FORGET TO TAG YOUR PROMPT ART WITH #MAGOMARCH !!

[mysteryshoptls]

SR Riddle Rosehearts - Lab Coat Vignette

"This is my 'intuition.'"

[Heartslabyul Dorm – Riddle's Room]

[knock, knock]

Riddle: Please, come in.

Trey: Excuse me. Riddle, have you finished filling in all of the paperwork for the Housewarden meeting?

Riddle: I've long been finished. Here you go.

Trey: Oh, wow… That's a lot. This all goes to the Headmage, right?

Riddle: That's right. There are still other documents I need to finish tidying up, so I'll be counting on you.

Trey: Got it, I'll bring it to him right away. Make sure you don't push yourself too hard.

Trey: I'll be off then.

Riddle: Goodness… Trey has always been a bit of a worrier.

Riddle: Although, if I rest now, I won't be able to get everything done according to my schedule. I'll try to finish this up quickly.

Riddle: Hmm, all that is left now is… the registration forms for the Inter-Dorm Magical Shift Tournament.

Riddle: …I see, since Azul prepared these, there are an abundance of regulations to go through. It will be quite a lot just to read through it.

[rain starts to fall]

Riddle: Hm, is that rain…? I was so focused on checking the documents that I didn't even notice.

Riddle: It's coming down pretty hard. The forecast hadn't even given any warning for this.

Riddle: I wonder if Trey brought an umbrella with him when he left...

[Cafeteria]

―The next day

Trey: Achoo!

Riddle: !

Trey: Whew… Sorry for sneezing over the food.

Cater: Trey-kun, you sick?

Riddle: Really, now… This is why I told you to stay warm and sleep early yesterday.

Trey: Haha, that's my bad. I wanted to finish all my assignments, so I ended up staying up later than I meant to.

Trey: So it's just a self-management issue. Riddle, it's not your fault.

Riddle: Humph…

Cater: Hey, wait! Why's Trey-kun apologizing when he's the one who's sick and Riddle-kun is perfectly fine?

Cater: Obviously, there's something going on here that I don't know! Tell mee, let me in on it～

Trey: I mean, it's not really anything important…

Riddle: Yesterday, it started raining while he was out running an errand for me.

Cater: Ahh～ yeah, I guess I remember it raining. That was super unlucky, huh, Trey-kun?

Trey: Yeah… Achoo!

Riddle: Trey, do you have a fever?

Trey: I took my temperature this morning, but… I think it's looking good for now.

Riddle: Once you finish dinner, you should check your temperature once more. It doesn't seem like you have much of an appetite, either…

Cater: He's right, you haven't eaten anything. Why don't you go to the infirmary later?

Trey: Both of you are overreacting. I'm fine. I'm just a little lethargic, is all.

Cater: Then at the very least, you should have some soup, or something else good for you like that. Want me to go buy some for ya?

Trey: Like I said, you're blowing this way out of proportion. You don't have to do anything that… Achoo!

Trey: Urgh…

Cater: Uh-huh, see, like I said. Hey, Riddle-kun… I'm going to go take Trey-kun back to the dorm.

Riddle: …

[Library]

Riddle: Trey's cold has completely taken a turn for the worse. At this rate, my own ability to care for my own dorm residents will be called into question.

Riddle: Let's find a home cooking recipe book… Here it is. Hm, the soups listed here that would be good to help warm up someone with a cold are…

Riddle: Spicy curry soup, tomato and chili soup, leek and pork habanero soup…

Riddle: These all seem like they would warm anyone up, but they don't seem very gentle on the stomach…

Lilia: You there, boy, is something troubling you?

Riddle: Oh! You are Lilia-senpai from Diasomnia… Whenever did you get behind me…?

Lilia: Your nose was really dug into that book. What're you looking for?

Lilia: …Oh, you've got a recipe book there in your hands, I see.

Riddle: Ah, no, this is…!

Lilia: So, are you trying to cook something? I thought that was your Vice Housewarden's job.

Riddle: …Ordinarily, it would be, yes.

Lilia: Haha, I see. Looks like Trey really got hit hard by his cold despite his protesting.

Riddle: Eh? How did you know of that?

Lilia: We're in the same class, after all. He'd been sneezing all morning, so anyone'd notice.

Lilia: Which means, I guess you're in here searching for a light soup that would be gentle on his stomach to make for him?

Riddle: …He came down with that cold because of me.

Lilia: Hmm, seeing you so distraught and out of your comfort zone brings back memories.

Lilia: It takes me back, how old was Silver back then, again…?

Riddle: I believe it would be a major over-exaggeration to say I am distraught. …I will be fine once I find the right recipe.

Lilia: I bet you won't find it.

Riddle: Wh-Why would you say that?

Lilia: Kufufu. Because I've searched for one before, too.

Lilia: A mild soup to chase away a cold is much too easy to be found in recipe books.

Lilia: You can just feel the arrogance of those professional chefs.

Riddle: No… Well then, I'll simply have to think of another dish.

Lilia: Wait, wait, no need to rush off. How about I help teach you something you can make instead of soup.

Riddle: Eh!?

[Heartslabyul Dorm – Kitchen]

Riddle: I never realized how cold the kitchens get at night…

Lilia: Well, yeah, there's a lot of things that use fire here. Obviously, it'll be colder when there's no one else around.

Lilia: Anyway, let's get down to business. We need to finish making the soup before Trey goes to sleep.

Riddle: Right. Let me think, first… Should I retrieve the pot?

Lilia: Mhm. And you'll also need water and the seasonings.

Riddle: How much water should I use? …And please don't just say "use your intuition."

Lilia: You can just measure out how much you want him to drink in a cup and add that. As for seasonings, that'll be based on how much flavor you want to give it.

Riddle: How much I want him to drink… Would three cups be enough?

Lilia: Oho, jumping right in. Well, that should be fine. As they always say, "go big or go home."

Lilia: Next, you'll want to add a few spoonfuls of consommé for each cup of water… How many spoonfuls was it again? Eh, probably about 4.

Riddle: I understand. Then that would be a total of 12 spoonfuls.

Lilia: Now all that's left is to season it and let it simmer, but now comes the hard part. Everything from here will be gut feeling.

Riddle: Urgh… That is what I was hoping to avoid… Can one really create a delicious dish while relying on instinct…?

Riddle: So then, what would my intuition say to put in the soup? Should I start with salt?

Lilia: Hm. Salt is a fundamental ingredient, but the best ingredient is putting in what you want to. For example… What is your favorite food?

Riddle: That would be a strawberry tart for me. However, that cannot be added to a soup.

Lilia: You think? I think it would increase your appetite if it's made with something that you truly like.

Lilia: Choose ingredients chock full of nutrients to also add to the soup. Like ginger, eggs, garlic…

Lilia: Oh yes, bananas and yoghurt were common ingredients in my home.

Riddle: You'd really put those in as well…?

Riddle: Although, it is important to consume the proper nutrition efficiently, so you may have a point… How much should I put in?

Lilia: That's where your intuition comes into play!! The more nutrition you put in, the faster he'll get better.

Riddle: Is that so… Then, I'll add more…

Lilia: Back when I made this, I remember I added chili peppers.

Lilia: With one bite, Silver jumped out of bed as if whatever curse he was under had been lifted.

Riddle: W-Wouldn't a stimulant like that be detrimental here? …Alright, I think that's enough seasoning now.

Lilia: Oh, you're not going to add anything else?

Riddle: That's right. I pictured Trey and what I thought he'd like… This is my "intuition".

Lilia: I see, then. Well, all that's left is to bring it to a boil and it'll be done.

Riddle: I understand. Is medium heat alright…? …For some reason, I feel like the smell its giving off is… too intense…

[Heartslabyul Dorm – Trey's Room]

Trey: …Achoo!

[knock, knock]

Trey: Hm…? Who's knocking at this hour?

[door opens]

Trey: …Ah.

Riddle: That's my line. You shouldn't still be up "at this hour."

Trey: I had been sleeping ever since I got back to the dorm, I just woke up. I felt a little bit better, so I was just finishing up some homework.

Trey: But never mind that, what do you have there in your hands…?

Riddle: …It's soup. This is the first time I've made anything like this, so I can't vouch for the taste…

Riddle: If you don't want to eat it, you don't have to. I can eat it for breakfast tomorrow.

Trey: No, I'll take it. Thanks for making it for me.

Riddle: Right. Well then, goodnight…

Trey: …[slurp]

Riddle: W-Wait, why are you eating it right now!? Go relax and eat it after I'm gone!

Trey: [slurp… cough, cough] Well, you went through the trouble of making it for me, so I thought I'd tell you how it came out.

Trey: It's not bad for your first time. Thanks.

Riddle: …There's no way… Achoo!

Trey: Riddle?

Riddle: Urgh… Your room is a little cold, Trey. It'll be hard to get better when it's like this.

Riddle: You should raise the temperature and go to sleep quickly.

Trey: Right, you too, Riddle. It looks like it'll be pretty cold tonight.

Riddle: Even now, you're still… It's fine, you need to worry more about yourself than me, Trey.

[School Infirmary]

―The next day

Riddle: …Achoo! Urgh… I feel so cold…

Jade: Riddle-san, please take care. I shall return to the classroom, now.

Riddle: Right, thank you for bringing me to the infirmary during class… Achoo!

Riddle: It doesn't look like the nurse is in, but there are beds available. I can probably take care of myself from here…

Riddle: Whew… First, I need to check my temperature… And get an ice pack…

Riddle: How negligent could I be? I never thought I would catch a cold as well…

Riddle: Ah, I forgot… to change out of my lab coat…

Riddle: But it's… too much work… to take off…

Riddle: …Zzz… Zzz…

Riddle: …Hm?

Riddle: Ah! Oh no, what time is it!?

Trey: School has already ended for the day, Riddle.

Riddle: Trey… Why are you here?

Trey: I heard that you were resting here in the infirmary, so I came to check up on you. How are you feeling?

Riddle: I'm feeling much better now… Achoo!

Trey: It looks like its not gone yet. You should take the rest of today to sleep. We can head back to the dorm once you're doing better.

Riddle: Hah… Looks like we've completely swapped positions from yesterday…

Trey: Haha, guess you're right.

Trey: Thanks for the soup. I drank it all.

Riddle: …You're a fool.

Trey: Hm?

Riddle: Nothing. I can walk with no issue now, so I'll return back to the dorm to rest.

Trey: Do you need someone to hold on to?

Riddle: I don't ne… Achoo!

Requested by Anonymous.

[alastor-simp-page]

The Soulmate Curse: Chapter 7

Yippee! It took me a month but here I am!

Hurt/Comfort ish and Hurt/No Comfort coming up! Heavy angst too! Anger issues as well. Whew.

I've been thinking about this fic all month and I was so damn stuck. YAY I'M OUT!

Pain. Liquid fire streaking up his veins and spreading to every crevice of his body. Perhaps this was all a dream and true Hell was simply fire. A whiplash of chills and fire sparking on his skin kept his eyes squeezed shut. He hoped he would melt or freeze to death then perhaps he’d finally have peace. 

Someone was speaking. He wasn’t quite sure who. And he didn’t quite honestly care anymore. 

He wanted to scream. Say anything at all but all he could feel was blinding fire and lightning sparking from his chest. A dull thud was rhythmically bashing into the back of his head. A music piece that he tried to focus on, tried to tap his foot yet his body remained immobile. His fingers flying across piano keys, humming a small tune to himself, playing along to that loathsome music thumping against his nerves.

“ Al…? ” a voice said from the world beyond his body. If only he could reach out, touch the throat which spoke such a familiar name.  

He had heard of a place beyond Hell. A place where a soul would transcend to after they had been “killed” again. A void, a place so wicked and dark that angels and all that is holy would cower at the thought of the name. A dark endless void where souls would wander alone for all eternity. 

Was he there? In a place where he was trapped with the most loathsome person in the world: Himself. A world where all the senses would disappear. A plane where memories of the life he had lived before would die. A void where everything becomes so distant his own touch would become alien. 

A place that Sinners would deny the existence of in fear. 

Perhaps he had died again. Perhaps he was there. Perhaps it wouldn’t be so terrible. He’d simply fade into nothingness, a husk of himself doomed to wander an endless darkness. If he was in a place where pain was nonexistent, a place where everything was erased then why were his nerves still on fire?

“ALASTOR!” Nails were digging into his shoulders and his body was shaking violently. Christ, couldn’t they let him die in peace? Fuck. Die? Die in peace? What was he thinking? Where was he? 

That voice. His eyes snapped open to look upon a rather crinkled and worried pair of crimson eyes. “Charlie?” the words slipped off his tongue before he could stop himself. 

“Alastor!” Even with the splotches of black on the corners of his vision, he could see her fling herself onto him. Her arms snaked around him, that voice filled with worry only moments ago filled with relief. A hug? Alastor blinked and pain streaked up his body at her touch. A wince threatened to escape his mouth, and he bit down on his tongue. 

If she held on a second longer, he thought his steel would split in two. His shoulders tense enough to crack under the weight of her. He didn’t mind it, and he knew he should. The pain was crawling up, screaming in his ear to push her off. And even then, with his body in a mess of bruised and bloody limbs, he couldn’t. What was wrong with him? Perhaps a loss of blood. 

Loss of blood? Lucifer. The memories lapped against the dam of his mind, holding them back from drowning him. Her daughter was clinging onto him, a halo of her hair spread upon his bloodied dress shirt. Then finally his steel buckled and that wince he had been holding back for what felt like years fell from his lips. 

She drew away, that warmth that had settled in his chest snatched away from him. Her gaze swept over him, studying his eternally smiling mask. She grimaced and looked over at him, “Sorry. I got carried away. I just thought…”

“That I had died?” A laugh effortlessly sailed from his mouth, and he gasped as his chest screamed in pain. Fuck. He whispered internally yet he continued with a good-mannered smile, “It’s going to take far more than your father to kill me, dear!” 

Charlie’s fingers fiddled with each other, and she looked up at him, her gaze hooded under her lidded eyes. A handful of heartbeats passed. She sucked in a breath. Alastor knew that look, that manner, she was nervous. The words still came, slowly, evenly from her lips, “Why did you let it fester?”

Alastor blinked slowly. Recognition flickered across his gaze, yet he feigned ignorance. She couldn’t know. His clawed hand rested on his abdomen only to feel skin. Skin? He blinked again, his gaze falling to his chest. What little decency he had was gone. His vest and shirt had been cut in two . Despite the pain, his hands flung on his chest where it shimmered nastily underneath, and he tried to pull the fabric together. A desperate attempt to hide.

“What is that ?” Seriousness was thick within the princess’ eyes as she jabbed a finger at his chest. 

Alastor almost sputtered yet held himself back, lifting ever so slightly from the soft surface. A bed? That was beside the point. He threw a question back in her rather rigid face, “Why is my shirt cut open? Hm?” 

Charlie slammed a hand to her cheek and dragged it down until it fell down into her lap. She was being rather dramatic. “It was an emergency. I didn’t have any time to, you know, do the whole thing. And I didn’t want to hurt you anymore than you already are.” Her palm dug into the comforter as she asked, “Now, stop dodging the question. What. Is. That?”

“It's nothing,” Alastor waved it off and then winced as he shifted against the mass of pillows behind him. 

Charlie let out a long, angered sigh. My, that devilish side of her was really showing. Well, simply a temper, he shouldn’t get too ahead of himself. “That is not nothing,” Her hand flew in its direction, and she stared at him. Glared at him and he wanted to sink into the sheets, never to be found again. “That is a wound inflicted by an angelic weapon and you let it fester. And now…” Charlie clenched her hands. “It’s reopened and it looks really bad, Al.”

Now it was Alastor’s turn to sigh. Why did she suddenly care? It was her father’s fault they had ended up in this mess. Yes, had it let it fester a bit? Had he wrapped it up and tried to keep the whole mess under wraps ? Yes. What was truly his crime? “Well, what am I supposed to do, Charlie? It’s a wound. It’ll heal…eventually.” He slumped down into the pillows, the sensation of softness tickling the back of his neck. “No thanks to your father, it will take much longer now.”

“What are you supposed to do…?” Charlie said slowly, turning to Alastor, bits of red in her vision. She shot up to her feet in a flash and spat, “YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO ASK FOR HELP!” Alastor didn’t even flinch, his hands rested behind his head as he studied her. “And…and now…” Charlie stuttered, hands flying to her curls and bunching her hair into little tufts. “Because you didn’t do that… God only knows what it's done to you.” Alastor tilted his head at the sight of the rather rattled princess. Why did she care? Well, she was caring even for the Princess of Hell. A role one would assume would be taken up by a bratty tyrannical daughter except that wasn’t her. His claws reached to his chest. With a few clawed fingers he dipped his fingers into the wound. Pain streaked up his spine as he drew away, blood and pus coating his fingertips. That wasn’t as bad as he expected. Alastor laughed, invoking another handful of painful sparks around his chest, “It’s fine, dear. I’ll simply wrap it up and it’ll be fine.” “DO YOU EVEN HEAR YOURSELF? DO YOU SEE THIS???” Charlie yelled, her voice sending shocks through his bones. Her hair was a mess, her eyes narrowed, and little devilish horns peeked from her hairline. “DO YOU EVEN CARE ABOUT YOURSELF?”

Alastor rolled his eyes and let out another sigh. It appeared he had an endless supply of them tucked in his back pocket. “Darling, all I’m hearing is lecturing. If you have nothing nice to say I might as well be on my way.” Alastor slowly lifted himself off the pillows despite the pain screaming for him to stay in place. He was about to swing his legs over the side when something pushed him back into the covers.

Not something. A hand . And not simply a hand but Charlie’s hand. Pinning his head between two strange plush pillows with cat faces. Wait. Was this Charlie's bed? 

A burning anger was starting to brew in his chest. She was restraining him. She was trying to control his actions. “Let go, Charlie…” Alastor gritted out behind an eternal smile. 

“No,” Charlie said firmly, evenly. That anger began to pick up speed, turning into an all-consuming whirlwind in his heart. No? “I’m not going to let this go on. You’re only hurting yourself. I’m going to heal you.” The determination burning in her eyes bored into the back of his skull. Then her hands wandered south to that red hot and nasty mess of a wound sitting squarely in the middle of his chest. 

She ripped back what little fabric was there presenting the wound to the world and untucked the disinfectant rag she had used to plug the wound until she could heal it. It was disgusting, vile, a thing not fit for the place which inflicted it upon him. Gold tinged at its edges framing the abomination within. Pinkish flesh slathered in blood and oozing with a rather nasty white pus was what it was. It was certainly something meant to be covered by skin. The flesh bumps usually hidden underneath layers of skin, was bare to the world, bare to pests of the microscopic world to infest. 

Charlie didn’t recoil at the sight, instead she placed her hand firmly over the jagged area spanning quite a length across his chest. A soft glow emitted from her fingertips, a light upon the fleshy, oozing mass. 

She was doing this against his will. He didn’t want this. No, he was the Radio Demon. He had survived a month with this nasty wound sucking at the little bits of his power. No. It was a request that she had belayed. 

Alastor needed to do something. Wanted to do something. Anything to get her hands off him. He was the Radio Demon. He wasn’t weak. He didn’t need her help.

Just as the edges of the wound began to dissipate, a force shoved her back, sending her toppling off the bed and onto the floor. Alastor blinked, his arms extended, will took over his body. He had just pushed her. Charlie off the bed. Well, what was done was done. She blinked and as realization dawned a fiery anger began to simmer. 

Even as that damned soul chain pulled him toward her. Begged him to get her help. Alastor won. He always did. Just as Charlie’s mouth opened, he said, “I said no. I don’t want your help and nor do I need it.” With his last words, he sneered, “You may be the princess of Hell but even you should know you have no right to force your will upon me.”

With his last ounce of power despite all the pain, despite everything that was screaming for him to stay, one snap and he disappeared into the shadows. 

Continue under here:

[pokemonunderdogtournament]

From running these, does it seem like older Pokemon tend to be more popular versus newer ones, or is it any pokemons game? I feel like I tend to see older 'mons winning in matchups against newer ones the majority of the time, but that might be some sort of confirmation bias on my end.

Whew ok! Sorry this took me so long to reply to. This kinda caught me right at the start of the busy period, and I didn't want to give it a half-assed answer, especially because I wasn't really super sure if I was seeing any notable trends. (Most of the time I dedicate to maintaining this event is spent setting things up instead of reviewing data!)

Here are some rough and probably not precisely accurate numbers:

For my health I don't have the time to write out proper descriptions, so hopefully my discussion will be helpful enough, especially because it can be fairly easy to draw some inaccurate conclusions from this specifically because it uses a lot of hard numbers vs ratios.

You can find that down here ⬇ (readmored for scrollability)

First table:

Gen 2 and Gen 7 (!) are performing the strongest overall. Gen 9 and Gen 5 (!!) are performing the most poorly. I figure Gen 9 isn't faring too well for a multitude of reasons -- most notably, I think, people haven't really had time to grow attached to these guys yet. To speculate on Gen 5, I have a few theories. Gen 5 introduced a lot of new Pokemon, interest gets spread out (though I am surprised that age-group nostalgia isn't helping it more along here...). If I recall correctly, a lot of the designs were also quite heavily critiqued, though I've never paid much attention to that sort of commentary.

I'm honestly surprised that Gen 1 is that close to even, but then I don't think it helps that a lot of the less popular designs keep popping up to be repeatedly swept... The data set isn't large enough to avoid being easily influenced by various sub-tournaments haha.

Second table:

This one looks at each generation and how it compares to matches where it was paired with older generations. Earlier generation results are less helpful because, for instance, Gen 2 only has to contend with Gen 1, but Gen 8 has to contend with Gens 1-7... I wasn't sure how to break this up more properly, and I've already spent so much time on this 😅 I could probably figure it out with time but I don't want to keep this ask on hold for like 3 more months. I think it's interesting to see how notably well Gen 7 performs here, like it has a notable number of wins though it's dealing with 6 entire generations.

Anyway, more red in the ratios (basically, more instances where Pokemon of a given generation lost to older gens more than they won) supports the hypothesis.

Third table:

Basically the opposite of the above. More green means more generations that fared better against the generations after it. Gen 5 is the only one who doesn't have this, but it's even. It's won as many Gen 6-9 polls as it's lost

Gen 8 being the strongest here is a little funny, but it just means that Gen 8 has been performing super well when specifically placed in contrast to Gen 9. The fact that there are so few polls in this category probably is why the ratio can get so high at all though.

Generation Gap Average:

This one's a bit hard for me to explain but it basically is concerned with how much the earliest generations perform against the latest generations, but close-generation matches take a lot of weight out of the end result. Basically though a smaller number means that the Generations aren't AS stratified. There's enough love for newer Gens vs older ones. This number hovered much closer to 1 for most of the data gathering.

Idk if this is helpful, but here's the formula:

=AVERAGE(ARRAYFORMULA(IF(B2:B-A2:A<>0, B2:B-A2:A,)))

The A col lists the winners and the losers are in B, so it's literally just averaging the difference between the winner and the loser. The best conclusion we can draw from this is that there is a preference toward older generations. If there was a preference toward newer ones, the number would be negative.

Old/New:

Literally just the number of older generation wins divided by newer generation wins, which you can see right next to that, so yeah older Gens, relative to the other Gen in the poll, have quite a bit of a lead.

Other notes:

In more recent polls, voting is actually skewing more toward later generations, but at the start, which notably voted on starters, voting was HEAVILY skewed toward older generations vs newer ones. It was unfortunately because I noticed this that I ended up having to collect data from all the (relevant) polls because those trends pretty strongly impacted the results...

Anyway! I don't feel confident to make any conclusions outright, but now at least we have an idea of what the numbers look like right now! Lots can be gleaned from this.

[chenfordspiral]

There are now 10 main characters on The Rookie — rank them! 😈

Why, Sarah? Why?? Although, maybe it's not as hard as I thought? We shall see..

Tim and Lucy (1 & 2) I think these two are pretty self-explanatory, right? They both just got a very special place in my heart, both separately and together. I could cry over how for they've both come since the first episode. I could also write an essay here but I don't think I could stop before the new episode airs so I won't lol.

Angela (3) I just love her, okay? Always have, always will. My favorite no-nonsense detective.

Grey (4) Because he's the papa bear of the group and cares for every single officer at that station.

Aaron (5) Because he's just awesome. I won't lie, I wasn't sure what to make of his character at first, but I've come to really love him since then. His comedic relief? Perfect. Him partnered up with Tim? Chef's kiss.

Harper (6) Because she doesn't take shit from anyone and could easily take any guy twice her size and put him in his place.

Wesley (7) Listen, I like the guy, but with all the other characters we have he just.. moves down the list pretty quickly? But I do love that he's not some a**hole lawyer like others have been portrayed on the show, and that he's actually fighting for the right people.

Celina (8) Again, I can't say I dislike her, but I'm also not her biggest fan. Obviously, she's still a rookie, but there's been a few things that never would've been accepted when Lucy and Nolan were rookies. That one scene where she essentially goes off at Tim in 5x19 (?) comes to mind. I can't believe she didn't get at least a firm talking to.

Bailey (9) Okay, so.. here's the thing with Bailey. I've always been bothered by how she seemingly knows how to do everything and has about 135 different jobs. They seem to have tampered that one down quite a bit recently, but she still only interacts with Nolan, except for a quick conversation with someone else here or there. I said this in another post recently, but I think if she were more involved with others, I might like her better.

Nolan (10) What does it say about me (and maybe the character) that the titular character is my least favorite out of 10? I know not everyone would agree with me here, but I just.. don't care about him? I'm mad at him, or how obviously different he's being treated sometimes, every other episode; 6x04 being the latest example because there are literally no consequences when he messes up and then he ends up on the TV only hours later?? Come on. I know he's a new TO, but he's had so many ridiculously great role models and yet, here we are. I'm sorry to everyone who likes/loves him, but I just don't care about him at all.

Can Tamara be an honorary mention? I just love how far she's come since we met her and her bond with Lucy is so sweet. I love me some found sisters. I think I'd put her in like.. mh, 4th? 5th?

Whew, okay. So maybe this was a bit tougher than anticipated. Top 3 and bottom 3 were easy, but the rest? Help, that was difficult. Thank you so much for this, Sarah! As tough as some of these asks are to answer, I love doing them nonetheless. 🫶🏻

[pebblestar]

Raphael x reader

| Rottmnt ver |

• You hang around Raphael very often- Standing to one side of the giant turtle and most of the time you follow him around the lair and often watch him train.

• Ngl he probably doesn't notice at first. He probably just assumes that your curious of what he's doing.

• But when raph actually notices that you stick to his side (especially when he's not doing anything too important) He starts to get a bit confused.

• Then he becomes a bit worried that something might've happened.

• Are his brothers making you uncomfortable? Did you need something from him?

• but no... you seemed to just stand near him or rather sit someplace not too far away from him.

• While originally he'd thought his brothers had did something to make you uncomfortable, he realized that wasn't the case- Shell you'd hang around his brothers a good amount but maybe not as much as you hung around the turtle in red.

• It gets the point where a joke is made by Donnie; about how your like a baby chic who just so happened to imprint on the giant turtle because he was the closest.

• It was amusing to say the least but curiosity wins Raphael over and he decides to finally ask you

• "Why do you do that...?"

• "Huh?" You glance up from the book your reading, Noticing how he's looking at you with curiously.

• "Well your always followin me around... Are my brothers making you uncomfortable?"

• At that, you nervously look away from him before closing the book.

• "This is going to sound stupid, But... Your comforting to be around. You just.... radiate older brother vibes and since my brother and I don't get along uh well..."

• You trail off as you fidget with your hands.

"Sorry. That must be so weird to hear-"

• He's definitely tearing up at that

• You think of him as an older brother?!? Someone whose presence is incredibly comforting to be around???

• He feels so happy to hear you say that- And also relieved that his own brothers weren't bothering you either.

• Needless to say, He's quick to tell you that he doesn't mind you hanging around him at all.

• Also he's 100% supportive of what you do (not to say he wasn't before, but definitely ups the ante)

• Passing that test that you've been dreading?

• Or maybe you've finished working on a project you've been passionate about?

• Whatever it is Raphael will definitely let you know just how proud he is of you, Going as far to ruffle your hair with a grin or bringing you a celebratory snack.

• At one point you'd definitely start crying when he goes on to gush over the project you've been on for literal years- Since so many others have told you to quit or have shown disinterest, it honestly made you happy that someone was showing you that all the effort you've poured into this project hadn't been for nothing.

• You can bet he'll immediately comfort you, And while hesitant at first to hug you bc he's a big spikey turtle and your but a small human- The fear dissipates when you make the move to wrap your arms around raph in a tight hug.

• all in all, he's a good older brother figure who'll have your back no matter what 👌

(( whew,,, ok I've never written for Rottmnt yet! so sorry if it's ooc- but I definitely want to try my hand writing more rottmnt going in the near future :]

[toujokaname]

Just As I Am / Episode 2

Author: Kanata Haruka

Characters: Tetora, HiMERU

"Whew… I'm coming back to life! The cold water feels so good~!"

← Previous ✧ Directory

Season: Winter

Location: Seisoukan Dorm Room

A few days later.

Tetora: (This isn't good... I still can't come up with a good idea even though it's just before the deadline~!)

U~myu... What am I gonna do—

HiMERU: —Exactly how many times does HiMERU have to hear that strange groaning sound?

Tetora: Uwaah?! I'm sorry, HiMERU-san!

If I'm bothering you, I'll go outside right away...

HiMERU: Go outside? But it's already quite late for you to be out.

Tetora: Eh, is it already that late? It looks like Narukami-senpai hasn't come home yet, though...

HiMERU: Narukami-san mentioned working overnight this morning.

Tetora: Come to think of it, I think I heard something like that... Ahaha.

HiMERU: Well, you seemed to be lost in thought since the morning.

Narukami-san said she would wait to hear it from you, but HiMERU has reached his limit.

If you have any worries, please talk about them. HiMERU will help you.

Tetora: ...That's unexpected. That HiMERU-san would try to interrogate me on my troubles.

HiMERU: HiMERU will be unable to sleep if this continues. And it would feel unpleasant to kick you out.

Tetora: Uu... Well, you're right.

But this time, I want to come up with a definite answer all on my own...

HiMERU: So nothing is progressing in the current situation.

HiMERU believes that wasting time without being able to resolve it is pointless, though.

Tetora: Ugh... HiMERU-san's words are like a stab in the heart...

HiMERU: HiMERU has no desire to force you into anything, but you should calmly judge whether your situation allows you such a luxury.

Tetora: ...You're right, HiMERU-san. The deadline is just around the corner, and I still haven't come up with a proposal at all.

I'm just being stubborn. It's not good for Anzu-anego either.

I understand... HiMERU-san, can I ask you for some advice?

HiMERU: —Very well. HiMERU understands the details.

However, are you unable to determine the direction of the "Feature Live" you would like to have?

Tetora: When I had Anego make the personalized outfit for me, I asked for something slightly more mature and adult-like, reaching a bit beyond my usual style.

I wanted it to be a reflection of my feelings of "I want to work hard and grow," and "I want to grow into a person who is worthy of this outfit."

Those feelings haven't changed. I want my fans to see me continue to work hard and grow.

But I don't think I can say I've "grown" if my answer is the same this time...

HiMERU: —Isn't it already good? Just as you are.

Tetora: Eh? Are you seriously saying that?!

HiMERU: You should thoroughly express that instead. If that is indeed your ideal.

Tetora: To express it thoroughly... But how do I do it?

HiMERU: You don't need to think too hard. Just show them your true, honest self.

Even if it's reckless, keep moving forward anyway. Strive relentlessly to reach your ideals.

That's the stylish, cool image you want to show to your fans, isn't it?

If that's the case, then it's fine to not try too hard. If you can "charm" your fans as your true self, that's enough.

Especially for this "Feature Live", they will be taking candids for the pamphlet.

Doesn't it align well with the project's concept?

Tetora: I see. I admit that I hadn't thought of that...

HiMERU: —HiMERU will say this beforehand, please don't think that you're being coddled by his proposal.

If it weren't someone who consistently strives for self-improvement, HiMERU wouldn't make this kind of suggestion.

Tetora: ...HiMERU-san, does that mean you think that way about me?

HiMERU: Although it's been a short period of time, we have lived together in the same room.

HiMERU sees your daily efforts, even when he wouldn't like to witness them.

Tetora: "Even when he wouldn't like to", that's a strange way of putting it...

HiMERU: You'll occasionally grasp a hand grip while getting under the covers.

Have you noticed that it makes a surprisingly loud clinking sound?

Tetora: Ah, ahaha... I'll be careful from now on.

HiMERU: It's fine. HiMERU is also impressed by your attitude toward improving yourself as an idol.

Now then, HiMERU is going to bed soon. Nagumo, make sure not to overexert yourself either.

Tetora: Roger that! Thank you very much for your help!

Tetora: (Just as I am... The real me... huh.)

Alright! I'll put together a proposal and call Anego!

Location: Yumenosaki Academy Grounds

Tetora: Ah! He~ey, over here! Anzu-anego! You made it~!

Hold on a sec! I'm heading over right now~!

Haah... Huff... I kept you waiting, Anego. Sorry for calling you out so early in the morning.

...Sorry, Anego, can I have some water first?

Tetora: Thanks a bunch. I ran as fast as I could this morning and got thirsty...

Whew... I'm coming back to life! The cold water feels so good~!

Ahaha. I was in a bit of a good mood, so I overdid my morning practice!

Also, Anego, are you taking in enough water?

Don't hesitate to grab a drink if you're feeling thirsty!

I've properly hydrated, so I'm full of energy now! With this, I can keep up with my training and keep running!

Tetora: Oops. Before I run, I have to explain why I called you, Anego.

"Have you decided what kind of live you want to do?" Ahaha, Anego can see through anything, huh.

In this "Feature Live", I want to show my fans the real me.

I usually try hard to be a man among men.

In this pamphlet, I'm thinking of focusing on my everyday efforts as the main theme.

No... I want to be the kind of idol that makes all my fans feel that way.

That's my proposal... Is it a bad idea?

"Well then, let me take a picture right away."? Did you already have your camera with you, Anego?!

I called you in the morning 'cause I wanted to share the image of the pamphlet ASAP, yet I didn't wanna shoot it right after!

But, something this sudden might be a good way to show my usual self, I guess ♪

Understood! If I don't show my manliness here, it'll only be a distant dream to be a man among men, right?

But still, being on the training grounds with Anego reminds me a little of the sports festival.

I kinda miss the time when I did the Two-Legged Race thing with you.

Hehe... Will you run with me from now on like you did then, Anego?

What, I'm just kidding. I mean, it's more like a metaphor.

Tetora: Anzu-anego, I have yet to reach my ideal self.

I still don't think I'm confident enough to say that I'm a man among men.

That's why I hope to have that confidence someday. I'll keep working hard from now on.

I just wanted to say that I want you to watch me as much as possible.

"I'm always going to do that." Haha, Anego's so encouraging. Really, thank you so much.

Well then, Anzu-anego. We're about to start shooting, I'll be in your care!

← Previous ✧ Directory

[pony-central]

Purity Sick Boyfriend Meets Demon DrugFriend

Purity Monika: Now, remember this, Purity Sick Boyfriend. Never go into Hell City. Always stay in Heaven, like a good Golden Angel.

Purity Sick BF: I promise I won't go to Hell City, Purity Monika.

Purity Monika: Good boy.

Somewhere, in the far corner of the Lust Ring in Hell City, a portal opens up, and Purity Sick Boyfriend pops out of it.

Purity Sick BF: Heh. Too pure for Hell, huh? Well, Mrs Bossy Knickers Purity Monika, *sticks his middle finger at Heaven as the portal closes* How's this for - Whoa! 😮

Hell City looks quite desolate. There is a lava-based waterfall, tonnes of skeletons on the grass, and a dark red castle looming over him. He catches a glimpse at teh sun, which is blaring hot.

Purity Sick BF: It's a bit... Dark here.

Werewolves zoom past him, spinning him around in 360° angles, as he plops onto the grass.

Purity Sick BF: *groans* I think my stomach just flipped around. Oh, no. *vomits a rainbow* Was that a werewolf -

He is interrupted by the werewolves growling at their prey.

Purity Sick BF: I'm getting away from those disturbing critters! *panicked noises*

He heads into the castle, as he bumps into a demon, who looks down at him.

Demon DrugFriend: Are you OK? OH, MY FUCKING GOD! AN ANGEL! 😟

Purity Sick BF: Holy crap! An actual demon! It's an honour to meet -

The demon started to panic. He sported a beanie, dark Crimson boots, a tank top with the number 666 on it, and blue hair. He had wings and a tail. His pupils shrunk.

Demon DrugFriend: *screams* Please don't hurt me! 😫

Purity Sick BF: Oh, no no no no no no! I'm not dangerous! I'm a good angel, honestly! Whew. Hot place you got here. I'm Purity Sick Boyfriend, the Golden Angel of Heaven. And you are?

Demon DrugFriend: Uh, Demon DrugFriend.

They both shake hands.

Purity Sick BF: So, how's Hell been treating you?

Demon DrugFriend: It's been shit, but it's OK.

Purity Sick BF: Uh, watch your language, please. I don't like swear words.

Demon DrugFriend: Oh. Is it a sin of some sort? 🤨

Purity Sick BF: Well, yeah. I'm Purity Sick Boyfriend, by the way. *blushes a bit*

Demon DrugFriend: Is your face turning pink?

Purity Sick BF: Oh. Oh, my. So it is! I'm sorry. I've never seen a real-life demon before.

Demon DrugFriend: *gets close to him* Oh, really? What's Heaven like?

Purity Sick BF: TBH, I hate it there. I'd rather stay somewhere else for a change. I've been in Heaven for as long as I can remember, and - Oh! 😳

Purity Sick Boyfriend felt Demon DrugFriend's hand touching his hip.

Demon DrugFriend: I'm next in line to become the Prince of the Lust Ring in Hell City. I can do with a little... *caresses Purity Sick BF's face* Make-out session. *smiles*

Purity Sick BF: But... Angels can't make out with demons. It's against the rules.

Demon DrugFriend: Do I look like I give a fuck? 🤨

Purity Sick BF: Well... Maybe just one kiss.

Demon DrugFriend: Good angel.

Demon DrugFriend leans closer to PSBF, and gives him a 30 second kiss on the lips. Purity Sick Boyfriend was blushing like crazy. He slowly closed his eyes, and the two boys started making out with each other. The kissing went on for two minutes.

Purity Sick BF: Holy... Oh, my goodness. That... Felt -

Demon DrugFriend: Incredible? I know. I've never had feelings for anyone of your pure level.

Purity Sick BF: I wanna kiss again!

Demon DrugFriend: Oh! OK then. 😊

More kissing, as DDF carries PSBF upstairs in his arms.

Purity Sick BF: Wait, where are we going? 🤨

Demon DrugFriend: My bedroom. Lovemaking time.

Purity Sick BF: But, intercourse with a demon is a sin.

Demon DrugFriend: I don't care about no damn rules. I'll go easy on ya. I promise. 😊

Purity Sick BF: OK, but be gentle down there. I don't have a thing like you.

Demon DrugFriend: Noted.

Demon DrugFriend closes the door, as they both kiss again and leap onto the bed, making out. Demon DrugFriend started to undress Purity Sick Boyfriend, starting with his shirt.

Purity Sick BF: Are you sure you know what you're doing? 🤨

Demon DrugFriend: Oh, ha ha! Trust me, Purity Sick Boyfriend. I know exactly what I'm doing. Now, take off your pants.

Purity Sick BF: I'm not so sure about -

But, before he can finish his sentence, Demon DrugFriend closes the door. The sounds of love can be heard from the room.

Four hours later...

Demon DrugFriend is seen in bed, with a lit cigarette in his mouth. Purity Sick Boyfriend sighs.

Purity Sick BF: Ahhhhhhhhh... Demon DrugFriend. That felt so good. Ahh! 😌

Demon DrugFriend: I know it did, my sweet prince.

Purity Sick BF: *sits up* Wait... Did I just sin?!

Demon DrugFriend: Haha! You sure did! 😁

Purity Sick BF: Holy crap! Purity Monika's gonna be upset with me! 😫

Demon DrugFriend: Why would she be upset? 🤨

Purity Sick BF: She said that I wasn't meant to go to Hell! I'm so dead! 😫

Demon DrugFriend: Why did you come here anyway?

Purity Sick BF: I was just curious to see what Hell City was about! I'm gonna be in so much trouble! DAMN IT! 😭

Demon DrugFriend: *holds his hand* She won't have to know about this. *gives him a kiss* Won't she?

Purity Sick BF: *cries* I... I guess so. That intercourse DID feel good, though.

Demon DrugFriend: Yeah. I didn't know that you could moan that loud.

Purity Sick BF: *blushing and giggling shyly* Oh, stop! 🤭

Demon DrugFriend: So... Wanna go for Round 2?

Purity Sick BF: Oh, yes! Please! 😁

They both kiss again.

And that's how they met.

@princesshillaryellaworld25

[destinyc1020]

What do you think about Austin Butler and Kaia Gerbe? I found this Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cwa_6OqI_Vp/?utm_source=ig_web_button_native_share

Lol... judging from the video link you sent me, I'm assuming you mean what do I think of Austin and Kaia together, vs. what do I think of them individually? 😏

Whew! That's a loaded question Anon lol. I feel like I've already kind of shared my opinion about them on here quite a few times. I'm gonna try to get my thoughts together... Cuz it's a lot to say....

Okay, so first of all... I thought they were a real deal couple at first... But based on some of the things I've been seeing lately, Idk.... Something about them seems a bit contrived and smthg seems off about their rlship. 👀 (Don't hate me! Just being honest)

I'm not really a fan of the age difference (mainly with her being 21...if she were 25 I wouldn't care), but it's whatever at this point. 🙄

I think people tend to forget that Pete Davidson was dating Kaia when she was 17 (UNDERAGE mind you) and he was 26. Nobody seemed to blink an eyelash. Cara Delavigne (sp?) also seemed to be having something going on with Kaia when Kaia was 18 and Cara was about 10 years older than her too. So, like I said, Kaia isn't new to this. But for some reason, with Austin, everyone is crying bloody murder lol.

Either way, I've always been saying that no matter WHO Austin dates next, I just hope she's older than 21. 😒🙄 Cuz THAT is not a good look. I don't even know how they got together. Could have been a setup for all I know. I'm just meh about them tbh. They're a boring couple to me. She's boring I'm sorry lol. 😅

Like I've said before, I've never really taken them all that seriously (maybe some shippers/fans do, but I don't), so maybe that's why I just don't really have much of a strong reaction to them. To me, they just seem like any other couple in Hollywood that dates for a while, and then will more than likely eventually break up lol. 🤷🏾‍♀️

Btw, the lady in that link you sent had a couple of things wrong (Vaustin Aunessa dated for about 8 years.... Austin was 30, not 31, etc), but I got the main gist of the video. And there are tons of videos out there like this, sooo we definitely get the point.

The dating of Kaia aside, I honestly just think (and this is just my honest personal opinion) that a lot of people want to hate on Austin.. 😅🤣

For some reason, the internet has a huge hate boner for this guy, and I just don't get it lol. I just assume he's the internet's perpetual whipping boy at this moment in time, and people just wanna drag him just because it's the "in" thing to do. First it was the Vanessa breakup thing, then it was the Kaia thing, then it was the voice thing, then it's they think he's annoying....Some call him pretentious...or arrogant, etc...

But then, I look at his interviews present AND past, and I'm like: "Are we talking about the same person??" 🥴

Even if you think that someone is annoying, is that any reason to hate someone you don't even know with such a passion lol? 🤔 Idk it just seems a little weird to me. Almost like it's forced or something.

I almost feel like people have put a certain personality on him that's not even him lol. 😅 Every single thing I've seen of Austin (past or present) he has always seemed to be very nice, respectful, down to earth, kind, humble, maybe a little socially awkward/shy, etc. But NONE of the things people on twitter/online describe him as. So I'm always left very baffled lol. I could see if he were a trouble-maker, an abuser, or talking badly about people, or was engaged in some scandalous things over the years, but the dude literally is just a quiet person who basically works, does his job, and minds his business. 👀

So, he just might have to grow out of this "hate phase" in his career right now. I keep saying on my blog that just about EVERY actor has had a "hate" phase lol.... and it will continue to happen, because people are just weirdos and hateful for no good reason online. 🙄

But these phases don't usually last forever. It will eventually go away one of these days. Anyway, that's my long dissertation...Not sure if that answered your question Anon lol, but that's my honest opinion. 😊

[chubbyheroesworthyheroes]

Since the cow thing is actually a really cool idea how about a little cow transformation with Keaton and some weight gain mixed in pretty please!

Keaton was well known among the Wolfskins as being a kleptomaniac -- anything that he liked the look or smell of, you’d better believe he was taking it with him to stash away with the rest of his treasures. It was less of a Wolfskin thing and more of a...Keaton-ism, but the pack didn’t mind too much since he kept his collection away from where they all lived.

However, Keaton was soon going to find out that some things simply shouldn’t be picked up from where they’d been left behind…

The echoing sound of a howl rent the thick air of the forest, Keaton listening intently for a returning howl, ears at alert and tail wagging idly behind him.

He’d gotten lost again, but at least this time he had gone into a different section of forest, and the playful teasing of the pack wouldn’t be too bad. It was always a little embarrassing to get turned around so close to their village. But, it was worth it for the new treasures he always found in areas they didn’t go to very often; people and animals would come and go, leaving all sorts of treats behind for him to inspect.

But, today, the fog had really come in quick, and the damp was messing with his sense of smell and direction. Hence the howling to reconnect with the others! They always had his back, and he’d always have theirs!

Only...he’d been waiting for a reply howl for so long already now...Had he really gone that far off from the rest of the pack that they couldn’t hear him?

“Man, this really blows…,” Keaton harrumphed to himself, tail low and ears down. He’d either have to wait longer, or try to make his way back on his own. Kicking up some dirt in frustration, the Wolfskin chooses the latter option; he’d have to get closer to the pack eventually, right? Just had to keep moving and howling every now and then to check in--

His boot connected with something as he started off in a randomly chosen direction, the tinny sound of a cowbell making his ears perk up in interest. Searching around in the dirt for a brief moment, Keaton whooped in delight at the treasure he’d just stumbled upon. It was beaten up and dented, no shine to it at all, and there was mud and dirt caked into every bit of it! Jangling it around, it produced the most discordant noise he’d ever heard in his life, and Keaton loved it. Grinning to himself, he jostled the old bell around again for the fun of it as he walked off, hardly noticing the odd echo the sound seemed to have now.

Trekking through the woods wasn’t a difficult thing for Wolfskin, but after hours of directionless wandering, even Keaton got tired. Plopping down in the damp grass, back resting against a fallen tree, Keaton let out another howl. Ears tuned in for any sort of response, he whined low in his throat when he didn’t hear anything. This was really getting old, and outside of just being tired and lost, he was getting incredibly bored.

Sitting back against the tree roughly, Keaton’s attention is once again drawn to the rusted old cowbell he’d picked up. It still had the strap attached to it -- as weird as that was, as that probably should have rotted away already -- and just staring at it gave him the strangest feeling that he should put it on. Not the type of person to really think anything through before he committed, Keaton shrugged and went ahead to put the bell on. It settled around his neck rather comfortably, and it made noise whenever he moved around.

“Maybe I should make this a permanent look, huh? Baha, well, maybe not around the others...Dressin’ up like a cow when I’m a Wolfskin is kinda funny,” Keaton laughs to himself, poking at the bell to create more jangling, tinny notes.

It’s after one such poke that Keaton winces, feeling an odd pinch in his chest. He presses a hand to the area, yelping in surprise when his hand meets the wet material of his shirt.

“What the…?!”

Bringing his hand up to his nose, he sniffs, blinking in shock when he smells milk. The Wolfskin doesn’t have much time to process this, however, when the ache in his chest spikes -- Keaton’s eyes widening at the sight before him.

His chest is...puffing up? Getting bigger? He was mostly lean muscle when outside of his Beast form, so it was easy to see the difference, especially when it happened so fast. He could only sit, stunned, watching as his pecs rounded out and enlarged. It wasn’t like he was getting bigger with muscle, though, his chest quickly transforming into something soft and squishable to the touch -- milk slowly trickling from his puffy nipples as they grew larger. By the time his milky man boobs were big enough to be cupped in his hands, Keaton started to notice other changes to his body.

His stomach gurgled ominously underneath his bombastic tits, Keaton whimpering as he felt his middle bloat out in a similar fashion to his chest. It was uncomfortable at first, like his skin was being stretched far enough to split, but the feeling soon dulled away into a soft warmth. His trim abdomen was soon replaced with a fat, pillowy gut, that overflowed onto his lap; chunky love handles causing his belly to divide into upper and lower folds of fat. His thighs had piled on with fat so fast, his pants didn’t stand a chance, busting at the seams and oozing out soft flesh. His ass was also exploding with growth, wobbling as the weight piled on and cushioned Keaton’s bloating form against the ground.

Finally snapping out of it a bit, Keaton let out a desperate howl for help -- trying to project it as far and as loud as he could, praying that any of his pack members heard him and came to help. His howl was cut short, however, partway shifting into the droning call of a cow. The shock of his howl not being...well, a howl anymore had Keaton jolting -- which sent his blubbery body jiggling -- the cowbell clanging around his swelling neck. His neck was getting so fat, topped off by his face getting all puffed out and chubby as well, that he feared for a second that the strap from the cowbell would choke him if he kept getting bigger. He tried to pry it off, struggling to get fat fingers around the leather. After a frantic moment of flailing around, the Wolfskin realized that the strap was adjusting to his size.

It was a small relief, as the massive amount of milk building up in his overflowing moobs was driving him absolutely wild. He was pawing at the overfull mounds of fat as best he could, but his arms were getting so weighed down, he just couldn’t keep it up long enough to get any satisfaction from it. He squirmed and panted, his bulging fat making quick work of his tight clothes and busting open anything that was still fighting to hold back the onslaught of chub.

His whines for help had now fully lowered into the simple lowing of a cow, terrified eyes dulling into a dazed look as he grew. Small, stubby horns popped up by his temples, and the trademark black and white fur of the Wolfskin shifted just a little to look more akin to the spotted hide of a dairy cow; the pattern even spreading to his skin in patches, making his massive figure seem even more rounded out.

By the time other Wolfskins from his pack had tracked him down, Keaton was barely recognizable aside from his scent. Massive body reclined against a fallen tree, the creak of wood beneath the amount of weight being leant against it, Keaton looked like a well and truly spoiled cow. Fat face sunk into his soft neck, the other Wolfskins could hardly even see his face passed the incredible swells of his milk-filled udders-for-tits. His belly was wide and flabby, almost reaching the fold of his knees; most of his weight seemed to settle into a pear shape, giving him juicy thighs and an ass that could kill.

It took a little bit to catch the massive Wolfskin’s attention, a dreamy look in his eyes as he smiled at them.

“Hey, guys, wanna taste?” Keaton mooed out lazily, tail swishing above his globular ass cheeks as he teased milk from his nipples.

[queen-of-my-goofball-army]

Undiagnosed Autism-spectrum disorder in The Michells Vs The Machines

I'm sure that more well educated people have put two and two together in this film but I really, really want to put my own spin on it from my experience. For me, as an aspie, film is one of my biggest interests. I love studying and more than anything I love watching and rewatching films. My latest favorite movie was one that I just watched last night for my family movie night, The Michells Vs The Machines. I also went 17 years of my life asking myself the same question that both Rick and his daughter ask each other, what is wrong with him/her?

Well, I'll tell you, in my firmly undiagnosed autistic opinion for far too long, that this family is full of people with undiagnosed autism spectrum disorder. When I was watching it with my parents my mom made the comment that "the dad was a jerk" and maybe "he just didn't love his daughter enough to let her be her own person." I thought that was so not seeing the bigger picture even though it was only fifteen minutes into the film. I have felt like Katie so much with my own dad. My dad is a computer nerd and a physics major for those of you that don't talk to me very often. That means in laminas terms that he's extremely smart. Way smarter than I will ever be in my entire life. Both of my parents are insanely smart in their own rights. My mom is a CPA accountant. But that isn't what I wanted to talk about here. I want to discuss the effect of undiagnosed autism and what it can do to a whole family when they all have it and just don't know that they do. This will probably go on for quite some time so you may stop here or read below the cut because this also has the probablity of getting super, duper personal.

We'll start with Katie! To me, Katie is one of the most relatable characters that I have ever come across. She's a film nerd, which alone has made her supremely relatable as somebody who is thinking about going into a degree in film studies. I am more of a critic of film than somebody who wants to make her own film but nonetheless, there were SO many little moments that I related to. The first thing that I personally noticed and related to was the stimming technique that Katie has. She chews on her hoodie strings. As somebody who has chewed on the drawstrings of hoodies far too often long before I was officially put into the Aspergers box. Aspies are also known to stick with one "special interest" for the rest of their lives if it's one that is wide enough and varied enough to make it applicable. For Katie, that's film. For me that's animation. I appreciated that little detail of most of her dialogue being references to other films because as a lover of films and movies in general I could go for days on just fumes and movie references that nobody else understands. The little things from her hair being perpetually messy (same that's a whole ass mood like I just learned over quarantine how to tye my own hair back), only having one earring in her ear at all times, the way that she dresses and draws on her own hands, this was just me when I was first in high school. I was one of the few people that wore shorts underneath all my skirts/dresses. Everyone who knew about looked at me like I had grown a third eyeball.

Aaron, the younger brother, also just oozes spectrum lil buddy out of his every pore from his being. I do think that they should have picked somebody capable of doing a bit of a younger sounding voice (I know what they were going for, but like Ben Schwartz has become a huge deal in both voice acting and live action before switching mediums.) His special interest is actually quite a common one, he loves dinosaurs. I've met a bunch of people on the spectrum that are fascinated by dinos and what they meant for the world as well as the universe as a whole. To me, there was one scene specifically that was the scene where Katie was lightly teasing him when they were going to the half assed dinosaur extravaganza. For me, this was SO relatable because both of my parents will mess with me about my interests most of the time it's when we go to Disneyland, they'll tell me that we actually aren't going to land of magic but to Timbuckto (hopefully one day they'll say some place else just to switch things up.) I related so hard to Aaron's protesting and whining in this scene since that is always my reaction to doing something that I want to do but get told that I can't do that thing.

Linda is more of your traditional mom but I think that she's on the spectrum as well. Just a more... normalized version as opposed to her family. She's able to be a teacher, she's able to interact somewhat normally around her neighbors. If anything, she reminded me of my own mom. This independent, takes nobody's trash (especially not her husband's), strong minded, and amazing mother who is completely in control of everything. She knows the special interests of her children and is constantly thinking of what will make them happy. Whether it be taking a detour for something dinosaur related, reminding her daughter that her dad loves her no matter what, and even something as simple as watching something that her daughter made and put her heart and soul into. I can't tell you how many times my mom has watched something with me. She watched my first anime Soul Eater with me when I was 12 and ever since then has been trying to get me to watch other shows with her. She's a lot like Linda, your loving, but firm mother who just wants her family to work things out.

Whew boy. This one is going to be probably where I cry. Comparing my dad to Rick is... something that I did consistently when I was watching the film. He's the strong but silent type usually, unless your me and he's just this constant annoyance when I'm trying to do something. He could be seen as just a "Jerk" but I think that is the undiagnosed aspie talking. Rick and Katie just struggle so hard to see eye to eye because their special interests can't intersect to save their lives. This, this hurt me because so often I struggle to relate to my dad. Especially when he talks to me about computers or physics. Now I took physics but without having been in quarantine and having him as my live in tutor I would have failed, not gotten an A. This has resulted me in saying things that I don't mean in the heat of the moment when we do argue. It doesn't happen nearly as much as it used to back when I was in middle school but when it happened it was because of one thing. I lied. I used to lie a lot because I felt so unworthy of being his daughter because on my best days I am not technically smart. You want to know how many nations of the world there were in 1991 when the original Animaniacs was airing? You want to hear my Dot Warner impression? Did you ever wonder how to recognize a specific voice when your watching anime? Have you ever had to watch a panel of your favorite anime voice actor just to laugh at something? No, well I did. But ever since I have started taking a quarter off from community college I have realized something. I am not technically smart. I struggle at learning the rules for math. My dad can do this with his eyes closed but me, I struggle and look like a complete moron. It took years for my dad and I to see eye to eye. Sometimes I still wonder if I was the product of some laboratory experiment of what would happen if two intelligent people came together, fell in love, and expecting that the daughter was smart I was the reject. Watching this movie with my dad I saw so much of my relationship with him on the screen. Struggling to relate to one another, fighting and getting into arguments about petty things, and not being able to be in the same room as one another without heated words because I didn't get him.

The scene that I related to the most when it was in terms of how much Katie just doesn't understand her dad was after he was nabbed by the machines. When Aaron asked her why she said those things to their dad and her simple answer was "I don't know." This. This right here was when I saw me. So many times I've gotten into heated arguments with my dad when he has simply annoyed me at the wrong time and I've just blown up in his face. Then I regret my actions and not know how to apologize for losing my temper with him because "I don't know" just doesn't seem like a nearly acceptable answer. I felt this in my soul because it happened especially often before I was diagnosed.

When I was diagnosed, things started to get better with my dad and I. We haven't had a fight in nearly four years now. He watches cartoons with me now to try and relate to me, it's mostly Pinky and The Brain but it's more than I could have ever asked for. I love my dad so much, more than anything in the entire world. This movie is so, so good at telling a story about how a family of undiagnosed aspie's and people on the spectrum struggle to relate to one another because their special interests are different.

Special interests and family's are especially difficult and I applaud this movie so loud because of the way that it was able to treat the subject matter with integrity and honesty. I'm sorry if this analysis got a little bit long in the toof but thank you for sticking with me! I really hope that if you watched the film you loved my analysis.

[planet4546b]

hi i would like to hear more about ur recent jackie revelation. how is their new origin different from what u were working with before? in what ways does it make things simpler? does it make anything else more complicated? etc etc as u please

ehehe jackie <3

spoilers ahead if thats something you care about. personally i dont give a fuck bc i <3 dramatic irony

idk how much of jackie's backstory i've talked about so sorry if i've said this before but just for clarity's sake: jackie is from a parallel dimension to the one we're in (one of many names for this dimension would be wave0, jackies would be from wave8 or wave15 or something). in their dimension, a group also tried to stop the coming end of the world, and jackie was involved in this group but bailed towards the end of their journey bc they were bitter and selfish. they abandoned their world for ours and their world was completely destroyed as a result.

all of that is completely the same!! the thing that's different is the group they were traveling with.

in the old version, they were traveling with a bunch of (essentially) random people. all of the people in the group were important to them, they got along and were friends, etc etc, but they just had absolutely no relevance to the story at large because theyre all dead and because jackie's relationship with their past is complicated in a way that means they don't want to talk about them. like i never even had names for these guys (i have a lineup of them somewhere from an unfinished jackie amv, but those were all on the spot designs hgjlkdsa)

(sidebar: this is all a holdover from the last version of the story, ladybird - jackie's backstory in s/n was lifted almost entirely from their lb one, just because it happened to work, and because jackie is a character i tend not to focus on i hadn't thought a ton about it until recently so it was just sorta one of the last remnants of that old version that needed to be cleared out)

in this version, jackie was traveling with alternate versions of sam, mel and emily. this is much more of a typical 'i came from a slightly different timeline' type of thing, but i really like the complexity it adds to all of the relationships on the board - it means jackie has a reason to try to save these people (they've watched them die before), they have an odd sort of familiarity with everyone that no one can quite figure out, they keep looking at these people and seeing someone else. i already made you read my whole essay on jackie and samira and adding to that the fact that every time jackie looks at sam it's a familiar face?? that its someone they personally doomed? whew.

AND its about how everything is always doomed. its about jackie coming from a doomed world and how they think 'well if i had stayed maybe we would have been able to stop this' and that objectively not being true - it's always going to fail, no matter the universe - and then they die in this universe before they can ever realize just how doomed everything is. like is it better or worse to die with a little bit of hope left????

so overall it makes the backstory more simple (which follows my own internal rule for backstories) but makes character relationships and character fate more complex + more tragic and you know i LOVE a complex character relationship. it's gonna take a bit of work to get it to totally work with everything else in the story, so there's a small chance i'll change my mind if it just doesnt gel right, but i REALLY like it for now. picking up jackie and rattling them around!!!!

[sebstanseabass]

Afterglow (A Bucky Barnes AU fan fiction) - Chapter 19

Afterglow chapters

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x reader

CHAPTER NINETEEN

The atmosphere changed in a snap. Everyone had felt it, except Peter.

Peter's early arrival had you all floored, especially you and Bucky. Oblivious to Peter, you were both dumbfounded, like deer caught in headlights. But this wasn't the best time to process what was going to happen next. You had to think off your feet. Yoy had to show Peter that there was no more than surprise in your faces.

Peter was finally here. That's what matters right now.

The instrumentals of Hungry Eyes kept playing in the background. Bucky's microphone created a feedback sound once he let it rest on his sides, making you all wince. Peter ditched his bags (which magically doubled), and strode towards you, engulfing you in a hug. Although he reeked of damp, mossy grass, and wood, you hugged him back.

"I got in early! How great is that?" He greeted you with enthusiasm laced in his voice. "Oh god, I've missed you, y/n!" He said into your ear.

The rest of the group, laid back on their comfortable seats, watched the whole thing unfold in front of their very eyes. You’d definitely pay to see Nat's look on her face right now.

"Yeah, you did!" you patted his back before pulling away, giving him the best smile you could do. "I've missed you, too. Welcome back, Parker. It's been quite a damn week without you."

Bucky was solid as a rock before Peter moved towards his spot (Bucky gave me a quick glance and a wry smile which you then returned; afterwards, you bit your lip looking at the exchange between the two) and hugged him tight as they exchanged their formalities. "It's nice to have you back, Peter."

"It is nice to be back." Peter replied, pulling away. "Whew, that one week went by real slow, huh? Feels like ages!"

"Yeah." Bucky glanced at you one more time. This time, it was longer. "No kidding."

"Alright everyone, it's nice to see you all together."

The group mumbled agreeably.

"Sam," Peter acknowledged, doing his signature finger gun pointed towards him, "I don't even know why you're here but I will as soon as I take a quick shower right upstairs and get these bags sorted out."

"You might want to take a long one there, buddy." Sam breathed out, fanning the air. "You smell like a caveman."

"Sam." You scolded, shaking your head.

"Yes, babydoll?" He jeered, which you and Bucky didn't like.

Most especially Bucky.

And Peter as well.

You gave Sam a look, hidden from Peter's view, of course, careful not to raise any kind of suspicion. But boy, was Sam giving you and Bucky a hard time. The group knew why he called you that, of course. But not Peter.

"Babydoll?" Peter repeated, a confused expression crossing his face as he turned towards you. "Why is he calling you that ridiculous nickname?"

Peter had always hated when men called you, as he put it, "ridiculous" nickname. You knew if he could punch them all, he would but because of Steve's number one rule (no fighting in the bar), he couldn't. It all started ever since you worked in the bar. You weren’t getting much attention when you were a waitress but you guess, when men see a woman behind the counter making their drinks, apparently, they think you’re easy, and naive, and would fall for their "charm" by calling you nicknames. One minute you’re "darling", the next you’re "doll" or "baby" or, the worst of them all, "mon chéri."

God, did men really think women would be turned on by a French nickname with a horrendous French accent? Perhaps, the idiots do.

You suddenly wondered if Peter felt the same.

"He's just kidding." You mumbled, taking him away from the group. "You know how Sam is."

You started to lead him further towards the door where his bags were.

"I know how he is, y/n." He grew more agitated now, triggered by what Sam had called you. "I've known him longer than you. Okay, what on earth is going on here?" Peter turned around once more, facing them all. His hands were all over the place. Exaggerated gestures that furthered his confused state. "What happened in that one week I was gone? Jeez."

"Hey." You made Peter focus his attention back towards you by grabbing him by the shoulders. By this time, the instrumentals on the karaoke machine were gone. "We get that you're really confused right now and you're tired so why don't you go and take a shower. The night is still young, Parker. I promise we'll tell you everything the second you come back here."

Of course, not everything.

The dead air whistled around, which you hated. He glanced at the group, who was waiting for a response. Their eyes were all on you and Peter. He finally let out a sigh, his shoulders slumped. "Yeah, you're right. Sorry, it's just been kind of a long drive."

With that, Peter scurried towards the apartment to set down his bags and take a shower. He left a trace of awkwardness in the air once he left.

"Is it just me," Nat started as you walked towards the booth, "or did he grow taller? Did he go to, like, a magic place or something?" Everyone looked at her with knitted brows. "Jesus, I'm just lightening up the mood." She said, hands raised up.

You strode towards Sam, a rush of heat climbing its way towards your face. "Seriously? You had to call me that?"

Sam chuckled nervously, eyes flickering between you and his best friend. "I-it was just a joke! I didn't know he'd take it seriously. And helloooo," he said in a singsong voice, dragging the o, "I'm drunk."

"Being drunk isn't an excuse. It should never be." Bucky said, leaning against the booth. He stood with much authority which you found enticing. But you digressed. "You still shouldn't have said it."

"And besides," you chimed in, "Parker hates it when people give me nicknames."

"Alright. I am sorry." He said. His eyes examined you and Bucky. "But how do you think he's going to react when he finds out his favorite person in the world is calling his best friend babydoll in bed?"

You were dumbstruck. Like it was some kind of question in a trivia game you didn't know the answer to. You couldn't think straight hearing the fries grinding in Nat's teeth, probably enjoying the drama unfolding in front of her eyes, Steve's fingers tapping on the wooden table and Nick's fast breathing.

You took a deep breath, and tried hard to ignore all these annoying sounds.

Sam was right. If Peter's reaction to the nickname was already bad, what more if he knew about the truth between you and Bucky? How could he possibly react to it?

"Look." You said, approaching Bucky, and grabbing his pinky with yours. For comfort. "We're still not ready to tell him but we will."

"Yes, soon." Bucky agreed.

"We're just finding the right time."

The truth was, you weren't any close to finding the "the right time." You had been racking our brains since last night on when to tell him. After setting on the when, then you’d move to the next phase of the plan which was how. Now that Peter had come back, you knew you needed to think and act fast before he found out about you and Bucky from other people.

"In the meantime," you said, grabbing your phone and finding Marco's name on my contact list, "let's just enjoy this party as it is. Steve threw this party for a reason and we are going to enjoy it. With or without Peter. No blabbing or hinting — yes I'm talking about you, Sam — about me and Bucky. No nicknames, no references. Nothing."

"You're asking all of us to keep your dirty little secret?" Nick asked. "While we're all drunk?"

"You and Sam are." Bucky chimed in, grabbing their beer bottles. "Steve and Nat aren't so I'm keeping a close eye on you two." He turned towards you, faces close in proximity, and gave you the bottles to stow away. "No more drinks for those two idiots."

Youbnodded and took the beers away from Sam and Nick which earned yoy a couple glares. Nick pouted afterwards like a baby, eyeing the beer bottles in your hand. "No, Nick. I'm cutting you off."

"Take his, not mine!" Nick whined, tilting his head towards Sam. "I didn't blab. This idiot did."

"I don't like your tone, man." Sam argued, mimicking Nick's state.

"One more drink and you'll blab. And please stop acting like kids." you sighed, walking towards the counter, stowing the beer bottles in their cases. Ypunlooked on your phone once again, called Marco and ordered three large pizza boxes — pepperoni, meat, and cheese pizza. All of Peter's favorites.

By the time the phone call ended, Bucky approached you with soft, doe-like eyes. The group resumed singing, Sam and Nick once again hogging the machine, clearly not taking your advice. Sam kept yelling at him to "cut the check!"

"How're you feeling, doll?" He asked, going under the pass through.

"Well, it's now a surprise party." You heaved a sigh, turning around to find a drink with much more of a kick to get you through the night. Your eyes found an unopened bottle of vodka in one of the cabinets. You didn't hesitate to grab it, along with a dry vermouth and some olives.

Bucky's eyes were on you the whole time, watching you making yourself a mean martini. Ypundidn't care if Steve saw you just now. Right now, you needed this. Just one glass to calm your nerves.

Younstirred the liquid with the olives in a stick before downing the whole thing in one gulp.

"As hot as that was," Bucky said, referring to how you drank the martini and how younmade it, "that's your last drink for the night. I'm not letting you get drunk for the wrong reasons. Once was enough."

You set down the glass on the counter with a thud. You lifted your hazel eyes to meet his blue ones. "You're paying for this, by the way."

He chuckled. "I know. I'll take care of it."

You looked cautiously at the door, dreading Peter. Knowing he won't probably be here for another hour, you approached Bucky, discreetly grabbing his hand. It took you a moment to put your thoughts into words.

"James, if we tell Peter, we need to be... sure. Of this. Of us." youbwatched your fingers brush against him on the wooden table.

"We've talked about this, y/n. I am." He reassured, walking closer this time. "It's a big risk but it's one I'm willing to take."

The idea of you jumping into this together, jumping into it with caution gave you a big relief. But right now, it wasn't just an idea anymore. It was real.

It was real in the way he snaked his arm around your waist, in the way he pulled you into a soft, deep kiss, and in the way his lips lingered on your lips. You pulled away, your bodies still close. At that moment, it was just the two of you. Never mind the loud karaoke machine, or the faint noises of the traffic outside, or Sam's out of tune rhythm.

It was just the two of you. In your own little afterglow.

"You're a big risk I'm willing to take." He whispered the words so slow that they swirled around you, pulling you even closer.

"And you're mine too." you smiled.

Several minutes have passed since your little conversation. Nat had teased you and Bucky of being whipped for each other. Of course Sam joined, and then Nick who chanted a little song he made, which, for the life of you, you couldn't even remember. The rest didn’t understand a word he was singing other than the words "Bucky" and "y/n."

Steve, on the other hand, had been silently drinking his beer and eating the whole time. You once gave him an are-you-okay look and he just nodded in response, giving you that classic tight-lipped smile of his.

Bucky was seated beside you, your thighs grazing each other in the little booth. Even accidental touches brought you comfort.

And isn't that just the best damn thing?

Peter had come in after the little performance Nick just gave, thankful that he didn't walk right in the middle of it. Behind him was a staff of Marco's who delivered the pizza boxes. Everyone hurrah'd. You grabbed your wallet from your back pocket but Steve stopped you, handing some bills to the guy.

"Steve, I could've gotten it." You said after the pizza guy left.

He shook his head, setting down his beer on the table. "It's your party, kid. I'm not letting you pay a single cent."

Nat scoffed. "She made herself a drink just earlier. You should charge her for that."

"Woah, y/n drank? That's new." Peter chimed in, squeezing himself in the booth, sitting at the edge. Between you were Sam and Nick. "What else did I miss?"

And so, you told him everything — well, not everything. Only from when Steve fired you (him lying about how why he even came up with it which Peter bought), to Bucky convincing you to take the project collaboration with Sam, to finally agreeing to it, to the whole meeting that happened just three days prior, and to how you’ll proceed from there. Youndidn't know if Nat and Steve wanted to reveal their little thing to Peter so you kept your mouth shut. Not wanting to do to them what you didn't want done to you and Bucky.

"My god," Peter commented, "that really was a long week! I'm quite disappointed I missed all of that!"

Oh, Parker. If only you knew the whole truth.

In return, he gave the gist of the whole corporate retreat. He finally told you where he and the rest of his team went but it was some place you couldn't even pronounce. Some cabin by the lake far away from Manhattan. He didn't bore you too much with the details. All you knew was that they went fishing, hiking and camping in the wild while team building. Along with the stories were photos of him and the place they were staying.

You frowned thinking it would've been fun if he were with friends. Like you guys.

The whole time, Bucky held your hand under the table or rubbed your thighs discreetly so as to not draw much attention.

Nat was an exception. That redhead saw everything, smirking once in a while. You gave her a discreet look from time to time.

Peter congratulated you, toasting his pizza with yours. Thankfully, he didn't need to drink tonight ("No drinks for me tonight or for the next few days").

"Wow, you really came out there like a new man!" you chuckled. He laughed right back but for just a mere moment. His expression changed while taking a bite of his pizza. You began to be nervous as to why this kept happening. Younneeded to go to the toilet.

Getting out of the booth was a chore. Nat, Steve and Bucky had to get up before you could even stand up. Youndidn't get why you didn't just stick the little tables together to make a long one.

You were in the toilet for a little while, leaking everything that youndrank tonight. Your head felt a bit dizzy but younmanaged to stand up afterwards. The voices of your friends were inaudible against the wooden walls. Except Nick's booming laugh.

Once you opened the door, you were greeted by Steve who was standing still, waiting for the toilet to become unoccupied.

"Sorry." you apologized. "Was I too long?"

"No." He replied shortly. You tried to walk past him but he caught your arm. Younlooked at his hand, confused. "Are you sure about this Bucky guy?"

"What?"

"This whole thing with Bucky. You can't actually be serious about this."

Taken aback, you wiggled out of his grasp, successfully yanking your arm out. "And who are you to tell me that?"

"You just met this guy." He answered. You still felt his grip on your arm by his stern tone.

"Weren't you the one who kicked me out of this very bar just for me to go to the roof to meet with this guy that I just met?"

"I thought you would've ended whatever thing you had going with him."

You scoffed. "You're not my father, Steve. I know you have this weird father or brother thing you have with me but I'm an adult. I can take care of my damn self."

"What about that night you were insanely drunk?"

"That... that was a one-time thing. A mistake is what it is!" younhissed. "Everyone makes mistakes."

"Y/n, listen — "

"No." you cut him off. "You listen. Just because you and Nat haven't figured out whatever the hell is going on with you two, doesn't mean you can shit on my relationship. Before you comment on my dating life, I suggest you fix yours first. I'm happy. Bucky's happy. We're both happy. Please mind your own business."

Before you could even go back to the group, Steve called your name. Youngroaned, turning around. "What now?"

He sighed. "You're really going at great lengths for Bucky. Keeping secrets from Parker and all that. Is it really worth it?"

You stood there. Silent. Trying to find your voice.

"Well, I'm about to find out." You replied, turning around, hopefully for the last time. "Later, Steve."

You went back to the group and continued to chat with them. Steve got back after a few moments. His streak of silence was broken when Nat revealed something none of you had ever known before.

"Did you guys know that Steve was a journalist before he became a bar owner?" Nat said, looking at Steve.

You raised your eyebrows, the pizza caught in mid-air. A curiosity sparke, pleased with the new information you had just acquired.

"Steve Rogers? A journalist?" Peter scoffed unbelievably, leaning back against the seat. "No way. No, I don't buy it."

"Me neither." Nick butted in. "He doesn't look like the type. Nuh-uh."

"It's true!" Nat argued. "Tell them, Steve. Come on!"

Steve forced a chuckle, avoiding all your waiting gazes. "Yeah, it's true. I was. I used to work for the New York magazine."

"Why'd you stop?" Bucky's voice surprised you. It was the first time you’ve actually heard him talk to Steve first, except that time when you first introduced them.

Steve's eyes met Bucky's. A strange atmosphere picked up. You couldn't quite point out why. "I was sticking my nose up where it didn't belong." He replied. "I got fired because of that. Boss said I was too... intuitive."

"Isn't that what journalists should be exactly?" You asked.

"Too much of something is bad too, I guess." He shrugged, retreating back his eyes.

"Huh." You said, observing Steve. Eyes stolid. Bearing no emotions at all. "Well, look who's good at keeping secrets. Steve Rogers."

He hummed. "We all got secrets."

And then Nick revealed a ridiculous secret ("I hate the bank! I don't have a bank account!") that lightened up the mood.

The night went on after that, Steve avoiding any questions you had about this past life of his. Nick had the most ridiculous questions followed by Peter. But the night had to end as well. Thankfully, it ended sober.

Leaving Steve, Nat and Nick behind, Bucky, you and Peter headed up the stairs, the elevator ride filled with deafening silence. One you very much loathed. Between Bucky and you was Peter. It was killing you not to touch Bucky.

Bucky left, merely dropping you off in your apartment. He told you he'd come by tomorrow morning to get his stuff that was still in Peter's room.

It killed you not being able to kiss Bucky good night, watching his back getting smaller and disappearing behind the elevator. Peter closed the door after that.

"Boy, I'm tired." You yawned, stretching your arms up. "I'm gonna go ahead. It's nice to have you back, Parker."

Before you could even go to your room and have a nice sleep, Peter called for your name. You lazily replied.

"Yeah?"

"Why'd you do it, y/n?"

Confused, you turned around, meeting his gaze. "What?"

"The project with Sam." He said, walking towards you. His footsteps were heavy in each step. As heavy as his voice was becoming. "Bucky convinced you. Why'd you say yes?"

Trepidation filled your body. A kind of weakness you loathed. But you tried hard to stand on your ground, masking your anxiousness.

The noises outside the apartment, out on the streets mirrored the voices in your head.

"It was a big business opportunity." you found your voice. "A collaboration. And I didn't have much choice knowing that I was going to get fired."

But it seemed like Peter chose not to listen. "For years, I have been trying to get you to work with me. Years, y/n. Years." He sighed in exasperation. His eyes were bloodshot, tears badly wanting to escape. "Why couldn't you have said yes to me?"

His last words were so strong and sharp like a knife piercing right through your flesh, leaving you to bleed out in the open. You opened your mouth to speak, to say something, to say that you were sorry but unfortunately, no words came out. Peter breathed, releasing his strong gaze. "Good night, y/n."

He left you standing there in the middle of the room, realizing now that it would be harder to tell him about you and Bucky. Once you finally had the energy to carry your weight towards your room, you treaded towards it slowly and opened the door, only to be met by a soft knock on your window.

You nearly jumped at the sight outside the window.

"Jesus, Bucky!" you hissed, immediately closing the door behind. You opened the window and let him inside, closing it afterwards. "How did you get there?"

He was panting, trying to catch his breath. "Fire escape."

"It's freezing cold outside." you scolded, grabbing him your blanket and wrapping it around his huge figure.

"I know." he replied. "Maybe you can warm me up." A cheeky smile started to play on his lips as he approached you.

You giggled. "Bucky, not now."

"I'm sorry, doll. I just couldn't leave without a good night kiss."

My heart melted at his words. You placed your hand on his jaw and pecked his lips. He pulled you in closer. You smiled in the kiss.

"Neither can I."

You kissed a little bit more, a bit more passion this time, the window framing you perfectly in the nighttime.

You pulled away, feeling a bit guilty about Peter in his room.

"We need to talk, James." You said, breaking what was a lovely atmosphere. You’ve already had two confrontations today. What was another one?

You sat on the bed and patted the space beside you. Bucky frowned, sitting beside you. "What's wrong?"

"Peter's kind of upset with me accepting your offer to work with Sam." you went straight to the point. "He's been trying to get me to work with him in his company he works at ever since he got the job but I've always declined. And now, I think he's mad or even jealous that I said yes to you. God, you should've seen him, Buck. His eyes were so wide, and red. I've never seen him like that. It didn't look like Peter at all."

It took him quite a while before he spoke. "Do you regret taking up the offer?"

"What, heavens no!" You answered. "Bucky, this has been one of the best things that has ever happened to me. You're one of them too, of course." You said, seeing his doe-like eyes once more. "I'm just getting a bit more scared now. What if there is no right time for us to tell him? What then?"

He clasped your hands with his large ones, making you stop your trembling. You didn't even notice your hands shaking until now. "There will be a right time, y/n. Right now, we just have to keep this our little secret for a while until we can tell him."

"What happens when he doesn't approve of this?" You started to ramble on once more. "Of us? What happens then?"

"Sweetheart, you don't know what's going to happen but we'll make it work."

You didn't respond. You just kept staring at your joined hands.

"I promise." He added.

You finally nodded, releasing a breath you didn't know you were holding. "Okay."

"Now, if it's okay with you." He moved a little bit closer, kissing your cheek. "I can spend the night here." Another on the other. "With you." then on your lips.

"Peter's in the other room." you whispered in the kiss, amazed at how the mood changed so quickly.

"That's why I'm gonna need you to be quiet, babydoll."

[ginkgomoon]

Victor's Pudding Recipe 🍮

Ah... pudding.

The pudding was put in a small, delicate porcelain cup, with a thing frosting of caramel.

As the aroma of pudding spread on my taste buds, deep in my memory, a door seemed to be gently pushed open.

What a warm, familiar flavour, buried deep in my memory.

Something suddenly dawns on me.

All these years, I've been trying to make pudding just to find this flavour. -Chapter 4-13

Finally, Victor's famous pudding.

I never thought finding one darn mint leaf would be so hard. The ones I brought home yesterday went bad, and the multiple stores I went to didn't have it available. But it's okay, I finally found it in the end. Whew! I personally hate mint, so this is the first time I've never been happy to see it. If money can buy happiness, my $1.20 is it.

The photo above is actually my 6th attempt at Victor's pudding. (The evolution item ver.) My original method was to steam them, not oven bake them- but both work just fine!

The huge sigh of relief when I took it out of its pudding cup and saw it PERFECTLY SIT THERE. IN ALL ITS PUDDING GLORY.

There are actually quite a few variations of Victor's pudding, but I'm doing mine based on the anime and of the evolution item. Sorry Weibo pudding, blueberries aren't in season now where I am, apparently.

Truly hope it ends up being perfect on your first try. If you have made the pudding with my recipe, please send photos so I can see!!

If there's any other recipes you want me to make, please comment them below :)

Good luck~

Ingredients

Caramel

4 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp water

1-2 tbsp hot water

Egg Mixture

2 eggs

250 ml milk

5 tbsp sugar

Decoration/Garnish

Pudding cups/bowl

Vanilla Wafer

Mint

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200 degrees celcius.

Coat the inner surface of the custard cups with unsalted butter. This will make it easy to remove the pudding from the cups. (I used small bowls/souffle moulds to hold the pudding instead if you don't have pudding cups)

Put the 4 tbsp sugar and 1 tbsp water in the pot. Heat the pot at medium heat.

Let it sit until the surface becomes darker. Swirl the pot and even out the sugar liquid. Wait for caramelisation.

Remove pot from heat after.

Quickly add the 1-2 tbsp hot water in. Swirl the pot and even out the hot caramel.

Pour the caramel evenly into the pudding cups/bowls.

Crack the two eggs into a bowl. Lightly beat the egg. Don't whisk too much to avoid making foam.

Add the 250 ml milk and 5 tbsp sugar in a pot. Turn on heat.

Stir until all the sugar is dissolved.

Add the milk to the beaten egg gradually while whisking the mixture. Add in slowly to make sure you don't scramble the eggs in the process.

Sieve the egg mixture with a fine mesh strainer. Scrape off the bottom of the strainer with a spatula.

Remove any foam on the surface with a spoon.

Pour the egg mixture into an easy-to-pour container.

Gently fill the pudding cups with the egg mixture.

Cover each cup with foil. The foil will prevent the surface from getting dry. It will also help steam the pudding evenly.

Heat water in a baking tray and gently place the cups in it. There should be enough hot water to cover the bottom of the cups.

Bake for 40 minutes.

It should be a little bit jiggly and not overcooked when done.

Put oven mitts on and remove the custard cups.

When they become cool, store them in the fridge.

After when it's completely cold, scrape the side of the cup with the tip of a knife.

Place the pudding over onto a plate.

Add the garnishes of the mint and wafter.

Enjoy!

Don't forget to help clean the dishes for the bill.

This is the game evolution item version where the wafer is on-top of the pudding and not on the side of the plate.

Anime version and bird's eye view of the pudding.

I'm cutting into the pudding and it came out so smooth! I'm so happy that I persevered to make this beautiful pudding. Thank you, Victor!

"I've always liked cooking. Alone, I focus all five senses to find the most logical path. Working to achieve an ideal is a pleasant feeling for me."

"Is that all?"

"...I'm looking for someone. There was a possibility that this may lead to a clue. It was the faintest of possibilities."

"The food was made with that person in mind..." - MLQC Anime [Episode 3: A Taste of Reminiscence]

[xpeachesncream]

acquainted | eight

> series masterlist | series playlist <

summary: the biggest goal of a grad student is to get through school in one piece - no petty drama involved, no sweating over the little things. however, that plan almost always never follows through. sometimes, you can’t help but fall into the most unthinkable, unexpected traps and learn the hard way. like, exhibit a: being unable to resist your engaged, substitute teacher, kim seokjin.

pairing: jungkook x reader x engaged!teacher!seokjin

genre: grad school au, student life au | fluff, angst, smut

words: 3.6k

warnings: cussing, mature language/implied sexual content, jealousy and slight possessiveness, making out

tags: @laurynne5 @yiyi4657 @miinoongi @teamtardis-notdead @bluesharksandfish @photographic-girl @yonkoghan @moonchild1​ @thebeebi​ (pls msg me if you would like to be added to the taglist!)

"Should we go to that charity event the school is holding on Friday? It sounds kind of fun." Ryujin sipped on her drink, while you went through your closet, showing her different outfits over the facetime call.

"What's it for again?"

"I don't remember, but the Golden State Warriors dj is going to be dj'ing. He's pretty good."

"Yeah he is. I mean, I'm down, especially if it's for a good cause."

"Okay, I'll grab us tickets when I head to campus."

"You're not even gonna ask Jimin or Tae?" You chuckle.

"Why would I? They do everything we do, they don't know anything outside of us." You shake your head.

"Cut them a little slack."

"Boohoo, they'll say yes regardless. Bring Jungkook!"

"I mean, I'll ask, but I'm not gonna force him."

"Oh quit, I'm sure he'd be happy to spend time with you." She looked at you through the camera. "K, let me see that outfit."

"He said casual." You showed her your outfit in the full length mirror.

"Absolutely, yes! You're fucking hot." She squeals, automatically solidifying your outfit for tonight. It, thankfully, wasn't too cold in the Bay today, so you throw on a grey distressed denim mini skirt, a low-cut light grey longsleeve, a belt and some heeled combat boots. You ruffled and fixed your hair a bit until you were satisfied with your look, picking up the phone once more to turn your attention back to Ryujin.

"Thank you."

"No problem, babe. I hope you have fun! Did he say where you two were going?"

"Nope, it's apparently a surprise."

"Ugh, I love him already." She gushes, causing you to shake your head. You dabbed a bit of lip gloss and pressed your lips together to spread it out before spraying a perfume cloud for you to walk through. Sooner or later, knocks came at the door.

"Okay, I think that's him. I'll talk to you later?"

"Call me as soon as you get home. I want to know how big his dick actually is."

"You're sick. You sound exactly like Tae, you know that?"

"We're not talking about him."

"Love you, bye!" You abruptly hang up on her, unsure of why the hell you deal with her and Taehyung's crude comments. You grab your bag and open the door to see Jungkook standing there with a small bouquet of flowers. He peeks his head over the bouquet with the cutest smile you have ever seen.

"Hi." He slightly scrunches his nose and pulls you into a hug. Goddamn, does he smell good. "These are for you." He hands you the bouquet.

"Jungkook, they're beautiful. Thank you." You take it into your kitchen and place it into a vase really quickly before stepping out. You eye him from head to toe, and boy is looking like a whole ass meal in the denim outfit he has on. Like, who in the world could pull off this outfit like that?

"You look amazing." You blush. "If you ever get cold, just let me know, alright? I can spare my jacket."

"You're so sweet."

"Just want to make sure you're comfortable." He shrugs. "You ready?"

"Depends on what you have up your sleeve."

"Nothing extreme, if that's what you're thinking." He laughed. "I hope you enjoy it, though."

"Thanks for planning all of this, by the way."

"No biggie. I'm just glad to finally spend some time with you." He does a little run to open the passenger car door for you before hopping into the driver's seat. Immediately, he gets the car started and turns up the heat to make sure you're comfortable. The radio is softly playing Zayn's sHe, with Jungkook softly singing along.

"Wait a minute," You chuckle. "Do you sing?" He smirked.

"Maybe."

"Hey, that's not fair. Sing louder."

"No, now I'm shy." He chuckled.

"Why? It's just me."

"Yeah and I just wanna impress you and not make a fool out of myself."

"You won't! Please." You pouted, making him shake his head.

"Ugh, Y/N. That's going to easily become a weakness for me if you keep pulling that pout." You keep pouting. Eventually, he gets over himself and starts to sing a little louder than earlier, causing your heart to flutter at how angelic he sounds. He ends up laughing towards the end and shrugging it off, his cheeks tinted with a rosy tint as you shower him in compliments. Swoon. You were so into the moment that you didn't even realize Jungkook was taking you across the bridge to San Francisco. You and your friends don't come to the city much, strictly because there's too many goddamn hills, parking is expensive as fuck, there's too many one way streets and people just get crazy as hell [like crossing the street when it's not time to walk?!]. It was a little calmer back home and that's all you guys needed. You watch as he parks the car effortlessly on a steep hill before coming over to your side to open the door for you.

"Whew, that's gonna be a workout later." You look back at the steep hill that you're gonna have to climb after eating dinner, you assume.

"Don't worry, I got you." He laughs. There's actually a lot of people out for a Tuesday evening that you end up hanging onto his arm to get navigate the random sea of people. He walks into Brenda's French Soul Food - nothing too fancy, but nothing too casual. The waitress brings you both towards the back end of the restaurant and out into the patio, where there are christmas lights hung around the fence and outdoor heaters posted. He pulls out your chair before sitting himself down, the waitress putting down your menus and cups of water.

"Ohhhhh, my god." You say with heart eyes looking at the menu. You had heard about this place from so many people, and you were impressed that Jungkook was able to score reservations being that it's always so busy due to its popularity. "I'm so excited! I've been wanting to try this place."

"Goodjob, Jungkook." He says, patting himself on the back. "If you're happy, that's all I could ask for." The waitress comes back to offer recommendations, which you both include in your orders in one way or another. Although packed, the restaurant was able to pump out orders quickly and efficiently so you and Jungkook weren't sitting around for too long without food.

"So, how's Jin in class?" You almost choke on your food even though this is something you should have expected. You really wanted to avoid speaking about him tonight, but you knew it was inevitable being that you were out with his brother.

"Um, he's alright."

"Just alright?" He rose his eyebrow and chuckled.

"No, sorry. I mean, he's a really good teacher. Definitely better than our last professor. Everyone in class loves him."

"That's cool. Yeah, he's really smart and wise. I've always looked up to him."

"How long has it been?" You weren't sure how to ask the question, but Jungkook understood what you were asking.

"I was a sophomore in high school when my mom met his dad." You're silent for a moment, allowing him to continue on if needed. "I had a really hard time at first, you know? The whole stepfather thing. My anger was moreso directed towards my mom and my stepdad for awhile. But Jin helped me out a lot. He helped me come to terms with my feelings about everything and he stuck by my side, always had my back whenever I got into arguments or bickered with one of our parents." You nodded, suddenly feeling guilty even though you and Jungkook weren't a couple.

"So, you two are really close." He nodded.

"Yeah, we are. I really don't know what I'd do without him. He's taught me a lot and helped me grow. Plus, Namjoon, Hoseok and Yoongi have been around too. They treat me like their own little brother.”

"That's sweet. It's nice to have that kind of relationship with your sibling and their friends." You chuckle.

"It is." He nods. "Do you have any siblings?"

"Ryujin, Taehyung and Jimin." He laughs.

"From the club, right? I met your friends, they're fun people."

"They're too much, honestly. I'm the only child, but we've all been stuck to the hip since freshman year in college."

"That's cool that you guys have been together since then." You give him a toothless smile. "I think it's pretty awesome that you guys are tackling grad school together too."

"Initially, we all had different plans, but Jimin had some big goals for himself including grad school, and it played a huge role in my decision to do grad school, too. Then Ryujin followed, then Taehyung."

"Cute."

"Speaking of friends, there's this charity event at school on Friday." You look up at him, a small smirk growing on his face.

"Uh huh?"

"And I was wondering if you wanted to come along with us. They really want you there."

"That's sweet. But, what matters the most is that you want me there."

"I wouldn't be inviting you if I didn't, right?" You bit your bottom lip.

"Touché. Of course I'll go with you, beautiful." He does a small nod before sipping his water. "Should we show up in matching outfits?" He joked, causing you to snort.

"Honestly, that seems pretty entertaining. Cute, and entertaining."

"I'm down if you are." You stuck your tongue out playfully.

"I'm game too."

"Let me know what you're wearing then."

"I will, whenever I figure that out."

"Take your time. Just know you'll look good in anything." You blushed. You both continue to talk over the remaining bits of your food before Jungkook calls for the check. You watch as he scribbles his signature onto the receipt before standing and sticking his wallet into the back pocket of his jeans. While exiting the small and crowded restaurant, you hold onto his hand, feeling him grip it tighter as you both successfully make it out. The night isn't too cold, and you sure as hell knew it wouldn't be after you conquered the hill that Jungkook parked on.

"Fuck." You say as you stand on the street, eyeing the steep hill in front of you.

"Come on." He says, slightly bending down for you to hop onto his back.

"Ouu, I don't know if that's a good idea--"

"Y/N, I promise it's okay. Come on." He laughed. Hey, if he was willing to do this, then why not? You hop onto his back, his arms wrapping your legs tightly around his waist, while you clung onto his neck. "See, not so bad, right?" He says, sprinting up the hill, making you laugh and hold onto him tighter.

"Shit, I am so sorry. That was probably a workout. Right after we ate, too."

"Nah. It wasn't anything." He scrunched his nose. On the way back over the bridge, Jungkook is heading towards Lake Merritt. You both are singing along to songs and joking around about topics that pop up here and there. When he parks his car, you notice a whole crowd of people gathered by the lake, which was a little unusual for this time of night. He grabs your hand and gently caresses the top with his thumb as he walks you over towards the crowd. To your surprise, you realize people are gathered here for a water lantern festival. Your eyes light up, making Jungkook smile at how excited you look.

"Jungkook, what the hell! How did you know about this and I didn't?" He shrugs.

"I have my ways." He says, his voice low and deep. You playfully shove him before you make your way over to grab lanterns to decorate. You and Jungkook sit off in a more quiet, calmer part of the lake, silently decorating your lanterns and writing your wishes along with it. What exactly did you want to wish for?

Happy friends, happy family. Happy you.

Whatever happiness meant to you.

To have Chance look over you.

Jungkook is done pretty quickly, but he waits for you to finish, not questioning what you've written since he figures it's a private matter. He shows you his lantern and his cute little stick figure drawing of his family and friends. You giggle, watching him gently lay his lantern in the water, giving you leverage to do the same with yours. You stand closely to him, his body providing you some warmth as you watch your lanterns float off into the lake and illuminate the night along with the others.

"Ready? We have one more thing to catch." He snakes his arm around your waist and gives your side a gentle squeeze. You simply nod, following him back to his car. He takes you about 30 minutes away, exiting and pulling right into a lot two street lights down from the exit. He pulls up to the ticket booth, buying 2 tickets for Tenet at the drive-in movie. You squeal and clap in your seat excitedly, also not knowing this was still around.

"Did you really do your research to plan this date?"

"Yes and no? I've been here before, and I thought it would be fun to take you. The restaurant and the lantern festival though, yes." He parks his car as instructed, turning the radio to the correct channel in order to hear the audio. "Wanna hop in the back so we have more room?" You nod, getting out of your seat just to hop into the back. He leans over into his trunk, grabbing water bottles and assorted gummy candies for you to snack on in case you wanted some. "I hope you're having fun so far."

"I am." You respond softly.

"Okay, beautiful. If you say so." He chuckles. He moves the driver and passenger seats forward so that you both have room to spread your legs a bit. At first, Jungkook made sure to give you enough space so he wouldn't make you uncomfortable, but over time, you felt yourself sinking closer and closer to his body until he had his arm draped around your shoulder, while part of your body rested on his. His hand gently caressed your arm, occasionally sending goosebumps through your body at how soft his touch his. You glanced over, admiring at how focused he was on the movie. He must have felt you looking at him because he quickly looks over and blushes as he nibbles on a gummy worm. "What?"

"Nothing, it's just cute how focused you are."

"Damn, are you not into it?"

"I am, but it's kind of hard to follow sometimes."

"Yeah, it's definitely one of those movies." This time, his gaze on you is a little longer than before. You don't know what takes over you, but you plant a kiss on him, making him smile into the kiss. He doesn't say anything, but proceeds to rest his free hand on your neck, pulling you close and into another deep kiss. Your hand grips onto the side of his shirt, your tongues slowly fighting for dominance. The sounds of wet kisses fills the car and tunes out the movie audio. You can feel the moment intensifying, both you and Jungkook letting out breathy moans in between kisses. Suddenly, the thought of Seokjin quickly flashes in your mind, the past nights you've spent with him and the nasty shit you both have done to each other.

You lightly gasp as you pull away, but it wasn't obvious to Jungkook that something had disturbed your peace.

"Sorry, I—" He tries to save face just in case he was in the wrong about something.

"No, I just— I wasn't expecting it to get that intense." You lied. You knew damn well.

"It's okay." He chuckled. "I would never rush you into anything, Y/N. Okay? We can take this slow." He gives you a genuine, warm, reassuring smile that causes you to swoon. Why the fuck was he so good? Just why? How was this even fair right now?

All you do is simply smile and lean back onto him. He's back to caressing your arm and shoulder, giving you small pecks on the top of your head every now and then to reassure you. Part of you wondered if this is what Seokjin had taught him over the years - how to properly love a woman and be a gentleman. But then, that quickly fades when you remember the situation you're in with him.

Well no, you're not in anything with him. You needed to stop doing this to yourself.

When the movie ends, you both climb back into the front seats to make your way back home. You feel the exhaustion hit you, all the fun and adrenaline you felt today slowly come crashing down. Jungkook parks in the passenger loading zone, throwing on his hazard lights before walking you up to your apartment.

"Jungkook, thank you for tonight. I really enjoyed it and had a ton of fun with you."

"I'm glad." He cups your face and gently places a kiss on your forehead. You weren't satisfied with it though, so you tippy toe as you hold onto his hand and kiss him on the lips. He leans into the kiss, deepening it for a quick second before pulling away. "Let me know the details about Friday, okay?"

"Okay."

"I'll call you tomorrow. Sleep tight, beautiful." He smiles and licks his lips as he watches you walk in, feeling utterly content with how the day went. You feel the same way, smiling to yourself as you throw your bag onto the floor and prance into the bathroom to get ready for bed. You felt the butterflies in your stomach every time you thought about Jungkook and his smile, or his soft lips against yours.

Butterflies that kept your mind off of—

[jin] 10:04pm: Are you still with Jungkook?

You roll your eyes at the text. You hadn't pulled out your phone all night, so you're also seeing the numerous messages from your friends in the group chat, too.

[jimin] 7:45pm: have fun tonight, Y/N!

[taehyung] 7:50pm: ^ ditto. use protection, young lady

[taehyung] 7:50pm: think about mr. kim's feelings

[ryujin] 7:56pm: taehyung kim, shut the hell up. do you have anything better to do?

[jimin] 8:01pm: i really hope she doesn't pull out her phone during the date -__-

[taehyung] 8:05pm: lmfao you guys, chill out

[taehyung] 8:06pm: i'm sorry y/n, im just kidding. have fun tonight and be safe, love you

[ryujin] 8:10pm: CALL ME WHEN YOU GET HOME Y/N! i wanna know deets, remember! and ask him if he wants to join us on friday!

Unbelievable. Your friends were unbelievable, and that was an understatement. You don't respond to the group because you figured you'd call Ryujin in a bit and update the boys over the week. But to Jin's text - fuck.

You were literally just tucking him away in the far, far, far dark, deep depths of your mind.

[y/n] 11:38pm: I was, but now I'm home.

[jin] 11:39pm: Yeah, he just texted me back. Sorry.

[y/n] 11:40pm: It's okay.

[jin] 11:43pm: Okay. Have a good night.

He hates this. Why the hell would you do this to him? Grace is upstairs sleeping while Jin is trying to clean the kitchen up like he promised. Suddenly, his phone goes off, signaling a call coming in.

Jungkook.

"Hello?"

"Oh shit, yes! You're awake!" Jin chuckles a bit.

"How was the date?" Not only was he asking out of curiosity, but wanted to know how you were doing during the night. Completely none of his business but he couldn't help himself.

"God, she's fucking amazing. A-and-and beautiful." He yells into the phone excitedly. "She's so exciting. I can't wait to take her out again. I just wanna keep spending time with her." Jin is pretty unamused on the other line. Thank God he isn't on Facetime so he didn't have to fake this facial expressions hearing about Jungkook's feelings for you. "S-she- I mean, we kissed."

"Oh?" Jin asks, tongue pressed against his cheek. What the fuck.

"Yeah, we were making out during the movie. It got pretty intense, but it didn't get any further than that. I didn't wanna rush her into anything."

"You think it could have escalated?"

"Yeah honestly, but I wanna do right by her, you know?" Jin can tell how serious Jungkook was starting to become about pursuing you, and he had never felt more competitive until this day. He just wanted you to himself, and he wanted to be the one to kiss you and make you feel things you've only dreamed about.

Not his brother.

He, too, wanted you just as bad. If anything, more.

"It sounds like it was a pretty successful first date." Jungkook is beaming through the phone, he didn't have to see his face to know that.

"It was. It was such a good night." Jungkook chuckles. "By the way, I'm going to that charity event on campus on Friday. Are you and Grace going?"

"Probably not."

"Well, if you both are free, you should swing by. It'll be nice to see Grace."

"Yeah, I'll ask and see what's up." Jin sighs. "I should probably get to bed, I'm pretty tired. I'm happy to hear the date went well, kid."

"Thanks, dude. I'll talk to you later, get some rest."

"You too." Jin hangs up the call, silently hitting his fist against the kitchen counter as he lets out a deep sigh. More than ever, he wanted to keep you wrapped around his finger. He wanted to keep you there, no matter how selfish that sounded. There was no way he was going to let you unravel.

[dany36]

officially done with tales of zestiria!! overall, i really enjoyed the game and i'm glad i finally sat down and played it. more junk thoughts below.

so it's definitely not as bad as i had heard people say it was. i was really surprised when i saw just how much of a bad rep this game gets, but...i can definitely see some things as to why people don't like it... one of the things i had heard was that there was barely any character development in the game, and i agree with that. i was 35ish hours in when suddenly people were already talking about going into the final battle and i was like...what?! no sub-story about rose or eizen or lilah that goes more into their past/characters like sheena in tos or something?? i guess we did get more into edna with that sidequest about eizen (it was nice seeing her show emotions for once!), but other than that, i really didn't feel like the game focused on ANYONE else at any point in the story. they just sort of get introduced into your party and are there to help sorey in his quest.

speaking of sorey, i REALLY didn't care for his character at all. i think he's the only one where i was super apathetic towards in terms of character and personality. even zaveid, who i thought i was going to dislike because of how annoying i found him in berseria, grew on me and learned to like him. i don't know, i guess when i compare him to other protagonists in the tales of games i've played, he really is the most forgettable of them all. like, when he "sacrifices" himself and goes in a sleep slumber, i felt no emotion whatsoever. as soon as i got rose in my party, i switched to using her as my main (which never happens lol i'm boring and usually stick to main characters as my Player 1--emil, lloyd, luke, velvet, dude with the purple hair in vesperia for the amount i played in the game) cus i was just like wow give me someone more interesting PLEASE. so, sorry to sorey fans (if there are any) but to me he's one of the most boring aspects of the game...and he's the damn shepherd!

and continuing on that point, i think the plot in this tales game is also probably the weakest one out of the ones i've played (weak main character, weak plot). the game starts off with the simple premise that sorey is the shepherd and he must get rid of the Lord of Calamity, and...that's pretty much it. in other tales games, you start off thinking your objective is A, but then as you journey along, a plot twist occurs and you realize now that objective A really was just a small task in what is your true objective. Something like this never happens in the game, so the pace just pretty much stays the same throughout the entirety of the game. sure, there are some cool moments (rose's introduction and her learning to armatize will forever be my favorite), but they are scattered out and about and honestly in this game i can't really remember something as impacting as luke sinking that one city (haven't played tota in a while lol) or palmacosta being destroyed in tos or velvet finding out the truth about her brother.

but anyway, the rest of the cast, i absolutely loved, so it's truly a shame that they were stuck in a sort of forgettable plot. i already talked about edna and rose being my favorites, but lilah (that scene with the oregami...OOF...OOF!!!!) and zaveid are cool too. alisha is barely in the main game, but it was great seeing more of her in the DLC and showing her struggle of what she wants to do (her combat also seems cool for the couple of fights but i had to stick with rose...sorry!). i only wish we could have had more skits showing the party interacting with one other. i don't know if it's just me but i really felt like there were barely any skits in this game, which is sad because most of the cast is enjoyable and it's a shame we didn't get to see them talk with each other in skits more!

i had seen people say that it's best to play zestiria and then berseria so you can catch all the references in berseria, but...to be honest, i don't think i would have enjoyed zestiria as much if i had played it first! prime examples are the eizen sidequest and the sidequest where you FREAKING FIND MAGILOU'S TOMB. like...hello??? when i got to the eizen sidequest, i 100% would not have given as much of a shit on killing that dragon if i hadn't played berseria beforehand. it really made me sad knowing the tragic ending that eizen wound up having. and finding magilou's grave being guarded by her friend also broke my heart. like...seriously!!! that was something that i also would not have given another thought if i didn't know who magilou was. so yeah i don't regret playing berseria first since i actually think it enhanced the experience a bit more.

gameplay-wise, i really enjoyed it! took me a while to get the hang of the equipment system, but once i did, chaining combos with Rose was a blast. i also really enjoyed how easily you could change party members (unlike in tob where it costs 1 BG!) in the middle of a fight. and MAN i never get tired of seeing those sweet, sweet mystic artes animations. <3 <3 <3 it increases any character's coolness factor three-fold.

my main gripe in berseria was the terrible dungeon design. at the beginning, zestiria did a better job at putting in puzzles in dungeons so as to not make the same mistake that berseria did, but then...towards the second half of the game...it was pretty much all berseria-like dungeons of endless same-looking rooms with endless enemies (the DLC dungeon being a prime example of this). which is honestly just terrible and boring, but at least the gameplay makes the fights seem not AS tedious...

i also felt like zestiria did a better job with the music than berseria did. i can hardly recall any song i liked in berseria (there's like two or three i'd put in my vgm collection), but for zestiria, i'm gonna need to hunt down quite a few. also, i could actually remember the names of the towns/locations and what they looked like. in berseria, i felt like i was going town after town but for the life of me i couldn't remember at ALL what we did there in the first place. i really just felt like i was passing through each town not learning much about the place, but in zestiria i really got a feel of each town, so that was nice!

oh, and the ending i felt was...kind of weak lol especially cus...no one talked at all??? it was so weird haha in tos, tota, dotnw, and tob we have the characters at least saying SOMETHING in the ending but in toz it was just...animations and that's it lol. so glad we got a DLC cus i would have been PISSED seeing just rose leave off like that without saying a word and then...they show us her GRAVE??? i always think "wow i wish they would show us how the future of (insert favorite characters here) are like!! :)" but seeing rose's grave made me so sad (as well as eizen's and magilou's) like nononono you do NOT show my favorite characters just DEAD!! >:'v but anyway, yeah i mean it was an ok ending but nothing that made me feel with a great gap in my heart like tob's or tos's did. like mikleo seeing sorey again at the end? cool. did it make me feel something like when tear sees luke again at the end of tota? sadly, no. :(

and last but not least, the DLC. i mean, i absolutely LOVED seeing the girls in the team going out on their own little adventure and just interacting and talking with each other!!! lailah + edna + alisha + rose...who doesn't love that?? we got to see more of rose being the badass that she is and uh yeah her and alisha? totally gay for each other...like that last scene before they kill the final boss?? just A+++ material (except that terrible last dungeon AND the HORRID design of the last bosses??? dragons with purple bright titties so that the player will know they're FEMALE dragons??? LMAO)

oh wow i wrote more than i thought i would but uh yeah. all in all: DEFINITELY NOT a bad game, has a great cast of interesting and fun characters (except sorey) but sadly the game doesn't delve too deep into them as in other tales game, DLC was a fun addition to see more of who i thought was going to be a greater protagonist in the main story, but overall when compared to other tales of games, the weak plot puts it second-to-last in my list of tales games i've played. would i play it again? definitely :)

WHEW, ok, now off to watch the anime!! <3