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ironwoman359 · 3 years

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Okay smart ass. How come you and the other big blogs aren't saying shit about the racism and other problematic things happening in the fandom? Specially when almost all of you were always ready to put your opinions on something as petty as fans criticizing Thomas for how he wears a skirt.

Well, I cannot speak for other ‘big blogs’ because, while I am friends with some of the people who run the blogs that you’re lumping into the ‘big’ cateogory, we are not a monolith. We don’t have a secret group chat where we all decide “today we shall talk about Thomas wearing a skirt and ignore racism on purpose.” I can offer speculation that perhaps more people quickly added their own two cents on the skirt thing because when compared to everything else that was going on in the world, both on tumblr and off it, it was such a simple thing to digest. Everyone was craving something simple at that time, so it was an easy, cathartic thing to jump in and say “hey, don’t be mean in people’s inboxes” and proceed to stop thinking about almost just as fast. Anyway, like I said, I can’t speak for other people, only for myself. So since you apparently want me to, I’ll speak for myself.

“How come you and the other big blogs aren’t saying shit about the racism...”

I am white. It is not my place to speak over poc about racism. It is my place to reblog their posts, elevating their voices without commentary. That is something that I learned this year, and it is something I intend to continue to practice. I do recall making one post in early June, about not using the b/l.m tag on fanart posts, but after seeing several poc express that they wanted white people to talk less and listen more, I elected to make no more original posts about the subject and stick to reblogging without comment. If you’re looking for some good posts about racism in the sanders sides fandom, here are a few good ones. Though most of the posts about racism that make their way across my dash and subsequently onto my blog are less fandom focused and more broad.

“...and other problematic things happening in the fandom?”

This is where I must repeat what I said the other day; this could relate to any NUMBER of things, and unless you are more specific I have no idea what you’re talking about. Are you talking about callouts for specific creators? There were two that happened over the summer that I know about, but A) again, those were about racism, so I chose not to muddle the conversation with my voice, and B) the works being discussed in those situations were works I was personally unfamiliar with, and thus did not feel like I had enough information to state an opinion publically (which again, as I understand it, would have been unneccessary additions to an issue I have no authority to speak on).

So maybe you’re talking about the Twitter callouts, or the situation with the artists for the Storytime Madlibs video? Again, I felt as though I lacked sufficient need/information to make any statements about those issues. I have a twitter, but I barely use it, and don’t use it for the fander community at all. I had NO IDEA what any of that stuff people were talking about was, and still don’t, and since I don’t use Twitter and am not in that community, it seemed pointless to speak about. That is not to trivialize any hurt or harm that was caused or experienced during those events, just to say that I have nothing to do with them, which is why there’s nothing about it on my blog. (The joke I made about fandom twitter was supposed to be universal and relate to how all the twitter discourse these days seems to be a rehash of tumblr discourse from five years ago. Bad timing on my part I guess, oh well.) And, being 100% honest here, I don’t think I even watched the Storytime Madlibs video. If i did, I don’t remember much about it. I know that when it came out that the artists were underpaid, I reblogged one or two posts about how content creators should not be put on pedestals and are not perfect, but the rest of that situation was centered around the artists involved in that video, and since I was not one of them nor did I know any of them personally, it seemed like something that again, I shouldn’t bring up because I didn’t know anything about it. From what I understand, a solution is/was being worked out, but I haven’t heard anything recently.

Or by ‘problematic things’ do you mean the existence of remrom, or unsympathetic sides, or how I’ve been in this fandom for over 3 years and our anon hate problem has never gone away, or the rampant purity culture, or the pervasive ageism, or literally a dozen other things, some of which are genuine issues and some of which are simply differing opinions being handled with all the grace of an elephant on roller skates? I’ve said it over and over again on this blog, but this fandom is not perfect. No fandom is perfect, but this one in particular has a reputation for being ‘pure’ and ‘wholesome’ for some reason; a reputation that it has never upheld by the way, because, shocker, fandoms are made of humans, and humans are not flawless porcelein dolls. We’re incredibly flawed creatures, and mistakes are inevitable. The sooner we all accept that and start treating our mistakes as an opportunity to learn and grow and do better next time instead of a signal that we were always worthless pieces of garbage that had no chance to do anything other than fuck up, the better off we’ll all be.

And may I reiterate: look outside this website for a minute. There is SO MUCH going on in the world right now, every single one of us is utterly exhausted, we are suffering from a massive traumatic event, several massive traumatic events at once, actually, forgive me if my attention is spread a little thin at the moment.

I’ll readily admit, there have been posts in the past several months that I’ve seen, read, and then not reblogged. Often this is because I feel as though the post that I am seeing does not have the full picture, and that it would be irresponsible to reblog only that part of the ‘discourse.’ And most of the time, I just don’t have the mental energy to go looking for the full story on whatever the Issue of the Week is. And I shouldn’t have to. Because at the end of the day, what I put on my own blog is my business, and no one else’s. There’s not some rule list that magically appears once you pass 1,000 followers that tells you what you must and must not do as a blogger. I am not required to weigh in on every little thing that happens in this fandom just because a lot of people in it follow me, and in fact, NO ONE is obligated to reblog something regardless of how many followers they have. If you are dissatisfied with the posts I make and/or reblog, you’re welcome to unfollow, there’s no rule that says you have to stay. But my energy is so limited these days, and I’m not going to devote what little free time and headspace I have to figuring out the ‘Correct’ take on fandom discourse.

I’d like to end by once again reiterating what many have said beffore, that racism is not the same thing as fandom discourse. It is always my goal to not speak over the voices of poc, and if in this post I have done that in any way, I’d like to apologize. Poc are welcome to DM me so that we can discuss it in any such instance, whether on this post or any other from the past or that comes up in the future. I am still working on unlearning racism, and know I am likely to make many more missteps on that journey. Stay safe out there everyone.

#taylor talks #fanders #fandom discourse #racism tw #longpost #ask to tag #asks and answers

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oloreaa · 3 years

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2020 WRAP UP!

Okay here we are!! Hopefully I have not missed anyone because I truly dont mean to "snub" anyone, so here is a list of people who I feel very thankful for knowing this year, where I started out on tumblr, you have been truly bright presences and I love you very very much.

First off here are some people I don't know very well (or at all, but I admire their work) but I think have excellent vibes and I would love to get to know better/let them know that I appreciate them very very much:

@maxlordd @ollypopp @opheliaelysia @honeymandos @concussed-to-pieces @pikemoreno @huliabitch @mitchi-c @hansoulo @browneyes-djarin @cinewhore @max--phillips @din-damn-djarin @ezrasarm @dishonouringmycow @keeper0fthestars @dadolorian @dindjarindiaries @cobbvader @leo-moon @justrunamok @frannyzooey @miranhas-art @keethus-arts @hdlynn @zeldasayer @qveenbvtch @softpedropascal @marvel-and-mischief @datmando @stubbychaos @di-kut @themangolorian @vercopaanir @mcfreakin-bxtch

and so, so many more that I cannot think of right now (and tumblr doesnt let me tag more than 50 people)

And for those I know a bit better, under the cut❤:

@binggrae-banana-milk : You're the first person I really talked to on tumblr, and I cherish every single one of our interactions so much. The one time where we had watched Revenge of the Sith together and had a full on BLAST, it was incredibly fun and every time we just kind of scream at each other in dms it's so funny, how we both are freaking out simultaneously!! Also before you I never really keysmashed and now it's a part of my vocabulary lmao, ily!!!

@mndalorians : Cass. Oh, my dear Cass. Listen, you have brightened up my year by SO MUCH. I don't even want to know how many tens of thousands of words our chat consists of dhdhdh, from discovering cultural differences with each other, to yelling about the same stuff, to planning fics and telling each other of our ideas. We share a brain cell and we are literally the embodiment of Zwei Dumme, ein Gedanke. If I'm glad for anything in this year, it's starting to talk to you. You're literally one of my closest friends and I never hesitate in hitting you up, from absolute crack to heartbreak, you have the range, darling. I love you so much, you don't even know❤

@agirllovespancakes : Iris baby, oh my god. I don't even know where to start. The way how we just started talking without even KNOWING how we started talking is the funniest thing, EVER. This friendship came out of fucking NOWHERE and I am so glad for this. I can always count of you to stand by my side in so many things, and you're the other chaotic one in Tender Roasting, I adore you. The way we just go "kskssksks" and "dhddhdhdhd" at each other for literally hours because we are just losing it over each other is amazing. Ich hab dich so lieb!!!

@adikaofmandalore : Holy shit, Adi, the only thing I can think of now is that you literally deserve everything good and sweet in this world. You're one of the kindest souls on here, and I've never met anyone who is as sweet as you. I don't even know how you are real. Everytime we talk I'm literally smiling so bright, your enthusiasm for Ven is unparalleled and the way we just go bonkers at each other with ideas?? You're so supportive?? And your razor sharp wit and sarcasm is AMAZING to witness in action. Your writing is incredible and incredibly underrated and your stubbornness is admirable. You manage to power though Everything and that's so impressive. I love you very much!!!

@teaofpeach : lee babe DAMN I've never met anyone who is as funny as you. Like whenever we are talking it's just, it ends with me cackling and having the biggest smile on my face because you made me laugh so much. Such a bright presence on my dash and your TAGS are always sending me. So witty and smart and your vocabulary is unparalleled. Filthy hoe but I love you for it. You taught me so much tumblr lingo just by texting me and I always feel Educated afterwards dhdhdhd I love you so much and I trust you with every single one of my attempts at Spiciness

@mandolovian : DEV BABY my love from tomorrow🥺🥺 the time difference of HELL had never stopped us from being hoe af in the dms lmao, I vividly remember one of our first convos spiralling into thots SO FUCKING FAST that was the funniest shit ever. It's always fascinating to see what you do on the other side of the planet and I admire you so much. Like, you TRULY have big brain. How do you remember so much??? Like all these conditions and facts and like WOAH I just feel like a plankton next to you💀💀💀💀 ily SO MUCH

@goldafterglow : iris babe omg okay first of all you're the prettiest bitch I've ever seen, such a nice presence overall, you have GALAXY BRAIN, your writing style is so smooth and full of descriptions that are so amazing to read, like its. Amazing. You have unfortunately witnessed several times where I typed faster than my brain would proceed and I ended up saying the DUMBEST shit and you make fun of me because of it. Like bro I dont even mind bc any interaction with you is worth it🥺🥺🥺🥺

@chibi-liz05 : Liz oh my gosh I just love you so much. We don't talk as frequently anymore but you just have a place in my heart, you're incredibly supportive of everything and you're always there for me, no matter for what, offering thoughts and conversation about everything. You're such an absolute sweetheart and a sunshine person and I just adore your positive attitude and the way you talk, you're literally the sweetest. I love you very very much and consider this me giving you the biggest forehead kiss

@pisss-offf-ghostt : you're one of the first ones who read my fics when I first started out, and your continued support for everything I write is absolutely AMAZING. Like I enjoy every single one of our conversations and discussions, and I feel completely safe to hit you up for anything, no matter what. You're an incredibly kind and hardworking person and your heart is just so big, I cannot even comprehend it. It's amazing how much you care, how you interact with people on here, and I care for you SO MUCH. Love you🥺❤❤

@maybege : you're literally the KINDEST PERSON around?? And we are weirdly connected through cosmic forces whenever it has something to do about Lebkuchenherzen lmao, its uncanny. We have started out in fics in such a similar way it still makes me chuckle, like we experienced the same amount of cringe lmaooo, and now you're just here, blessing us every day with your amazing content, being the most organised person I know, and just an absolute SWEETHEART. everytime we write I have such a big smile on my face, and you BET we would have found each other irl if it wasnt for Corona🤡🤡

@kiwi-the-first : oh kiwi you're such a nice and thoughtful person, whenever I feel down youre the first one to send asks and nice messages and cute photos to make me smile and that is absolutely adorable of you🥺🥺 you're such a vocal and passionate character and its absolutely amazing to see you in action, how you go all caps screaming in the dms. You have a special part in my heart and its just so nice to be able to talk to you

@corvueros : MEG we are literally sharing one (1) brain cell and they are oscillating between "horny", "yelling at each other in all caps" and "oh my god that's such a good idea" 💀💀💀 whenever we talk I have the biggest smile on my face and I absolutely ADORE you, you're the absolute best. Such a sweet and thoughtful and excited person who can spew the filthiest thots in a manner of 0.1 seconds. You're such a bright person and I could not imagine not being able to talk to you bc you're so supportive and just the literal BEST, I LOVE YOU BITCH, I AM NEVER GONNA STOP LOVING YOU, BITCH

@blacksquadron-rougetwo : okay Hailee you have absolutely excellent vibes. Like you're always so bright and sunshiny and just so damn fucking gorgeous I CANNOT BELIEVE YOU. Filthy and tender at the same time, the QUEEN of soft horny fics like woah, and the way you talk is just so wonderful to witness. Your reaction pics are always on point and no matter what the topic is our convos always end up in all caps screaming at each other how unfairly hot the character of the week is lmao. You're such a sweet being and I am grateful for you!!

@over300books : holy shit Estela I have not known you well for a long time but you're such an incredibly supportive person with the funniest of commentary, everything you write makes me smile, ESPECIALLY all those comments in the docs!! I completely trust you with all the writings I manage to finish and everytime you help me with it you make me see my work with new eyes. You're just so damn amazing and sweet and super cheery I just love you so much. I am so grateful that we are friends and I am SO PROUD of you for finishing your degree!! Like girl WHOOOO!!!

@anxiety-riddled-mando : listen not only are you an absolutely fantastic writer, you're such an amazing person and someone who just screams "safe" at me. Like I completely trust you with my thoughts and even if we are not talking directly very often (our communication is more reblogging and telling each other in the tags how much we love them lmao) I just absolutely adore you and I just am so incredibly thankful that we stumbled across each other!!! You're such a bright presence on tumblr and every single one of your works is so incredibly amazing!!

Aaaand that's a wrap!! Thank you so much for making my year brighter, I love every single one of you so so so so so much. Happy new years!!

Love, Rea

#new years wrap up #oloreaa talks #i love u very very much #❤❤❤❤❤

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the-inc-den · 3 years

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I Think This Could Be the Start of a New Life (The Inc Den)

A/N: Oh hi 👋🏻. Here’s the first piece I guess. Figured I’d get everyone introduced. I hope you enjoy them because I love everyone dearly. so yeah.

Warnings: None? swearing I guess, but this is SFW

Summary: River would really like to stop being sexiled from their apartment.

Word Count: 4.5K

River was lounging on the couch in the main space of their apartment waiting for their roommate Lacey to come out of the bathroom. Literally lounging as one foot was propped up on the couch while the other stayed on the floor, careful to keep their still shoe wearing foot off the couch lest Nox or Lacey throw a fit. They were scrolling through their phone and half answering texts from their work group chat, Al and Roger debating pop music influences with commentary chimed in from time to time. They tapped their foot to some mental tune they were playing to keep themselves occupied, probably something that was on Drake’s playlist that they’d heard at work. River had to wonder if Nox was in the room and waiting for them to leave before coming out, but they were probably still curled up under Lacey’s bed. River threw their head back and let out a groan as they looked at the clock on their phone, Lacey’d been getting ready for nearly an hour.

“Lace, c’mon, do you want to get to Labyrinth before last call or not?” They called. They hardly remembered why they had agreed to accompany Lacey on her night out, she was just going to meet up with Scott and then sexile River from the apartment. Then River would have to call up Drake or Roger or Al and crash on their couch and they weren’t super keen on doing that tonight, their hips still hurt from the last time they’d had to. Lacey exited the bathroom with her red hair curled and her makeup done to perfection which was really impressive, River just wished it didn’t take an hour to do.

“Please tell me you’re not going out like that?” Lacey pleaded. River looked over their outfit: ripped jeans, Converse that had seen better days if the faded canvas and scuffed bottoms were any indication, and their “River’s Fight School” t-shirt that Lacey had made them after the “worst breakup she’d ever experienced” that had ended with River threatening to kick the ex’s ass. The outfit had been what they’d worn on shift and it’d been fine, mostly because unlike Roger, they never dressed to impress at the shop.

“I am, because may I remind you I’m not keen on impressing anyone. Besides, I wanna sleep comfortably on whatever couch I have to end up crashing on.” River replied with only a dash of bitterness sneaking into their tone. Lacey rolled her eyes and slid her boots on.

“Fine, fine, c’mon,” Lacey said. River stood up and grabbed their jacket off the couch arm.

“Nox, don’t tear the apartment apart!” River shouted into the apartment as they closed the door. Their typical parting words to the shadow monster who lived under Lacey’s bed.

The duo walked to Labyrinth with little fuss, minus Lacey occasionally twirling her hair around her finger. After six years of friendship, River knew that she was nervous about something.

“Are you and Scott okay?” They asked.

“What? Oh! Yeah, totally, work’s just been a pain and I’m… wait what —“

“You’re twirling your hair,” River said, miming the gesture by twisting their bangs out of their face. Lacey looked over at her finger and immediately dropped her hand.

“Damn you Rio,”

“You love me,” they were quick to interject with a smile. Lacey chuckled as they approached the bar. Frankie was standing outside and Lacey smiled up at the rakassha as she entered and River gave a mock salute. “Evenin’ Frankie,” they said and received a nod in response. River walked in and was almost smacked by the noise. Boys Don’t Cry was playing over the speakers as the bar and surrounding tables were crowded. As to be expected on a Friday night.

“Lacey Loo!” A male voice yelled from one of the side tables. Lacey grinned as she turned to greet the voice. Decked in a red plaid shirt and good jeans was Scott, the himbo werewolf boyfriend. He was a good guy, he and River got along when they hung out together, they were just… loud when it came to nightly extracurriculars, and that was before getting into the whole “is a werewolf” thing. River nodded that they were taking their leave as Lacey went over to Scott and they found themselves going to the bar. They waited for the bartender to finish dealing with some newbies as they took their seat in their usual stool. It was a miracle that as busy as the bar was, they managed to snag it. If River didn’t know any better, they might’ve thought that Chrissa was saving it for them. They watched the orc bartender work, she eventually turned around and seemed relieved to see River.

“Finally, someone easy,” she said with a sigh. River chuckled and smiled.

“Hey Chrissa, my usual?” They asked.

“One mildly large glass of Coca Cola, coming up.” She said as she pulled a glass and the soda gun. Chrissa filled it and slid it to River with a smile, garnished with its usual orange umbrella, a mental note to whoever came on shift after Chrissa or simply any passing waiter that River wasn’t drinking. They snuck a glance around the bar, trying to spot if there was anyone they knew hanging around. Other than Scott and Lacey cozied up in the corner, the answer seemed to be a resounding no, not that it wasn’t expected. River sighed and went back to focusing on Chrissa doing her work. They’d always had a fascination with watching the bartender work, it was always interesting, trying to follow Chrissa’s hands move and grab the bottles without thinking too hard about what they were, measuring the liquor with ease that only came from repeated movements and months of training before her first shift. Laurence had hired her after he got tired of working the bar himself, roughly around the same time River and Lacey had started frequenting the place when they first moved to the city.

Chrissa dealt with some customers at the other end of the bar before coming back in front of River.

“How was work by the way?” She asked. River shrugged in response.

“Wasn’t too bad, mostly just stayed in the basement with Drake.” They said, the record shop they worked at had a light dampened basement for those who didn’t do well with sunlight, which included their vampire coworker. River just liked it because it was usually a lot quieter than working the upstairs front counter. Even if Al sometimes sent the most ridiculous requests down to them.

“No wonder you’re so fucking pale,” Chrissa joked as she cleaned glasses. River just rolled their eyes.

“Hey, I’m pale because of a lot of reasons. The basement and Nox are just two of the reasons.” They remarked.

“How is Nox by the way?”

“Good, he’s mostly keeping to himself, deep cleaned the apartment the other day and I didn’t even know he could do that.” River remarked with a chuckle. Nox didn’t pay rent, but he usually made up for it by keeping the apartment clean when Lacey and them couldn’t. “I think he wrote something about wanting to try manifesting fully again while we were there, but we haven’t been in the apartment at the same time long enough.”

“Scott?” Chrissa asked. River groaned and nodded.

“I swear, it’d be easier if they just moved in together so I could start looking for other roommates, but they’re “still taking it slow”.” River remarked.

“Heads up, someone headed your way,” Chrissa said, her tone of voice taking on a dash of an edge. River furrowed their brow until they turned and saw a purple skinned woman stride toward them with a glint in their eyes that River had a sneaking suspicion they should fear.

“Do you?” River asked with a slight head tilt of confusion

“Yeah, if it were anyone else, I’d say run.”

“But it’s me so…”

“Oh I’m so looking forward to what comes next.” Chirssa said with a laugh as they moved down the bar a bit. The woman who finished coming over made a show of coming next to River without getting into their personal space. River watched them out of the corner of their eye, waiting to see what the play was.

“What’re you drinking sweetie?” The woman asked. She had wavy purple and pink hair with white ox horns that curved just below her chin.

“Just soda, I’m a DD tonight,” River lied. Not about the soda, but about being the DD. Really, they were waiting for the text that said they were out of an apartment tonight, but DD seemed like the safer excuse.

“Ah, the responsible friend, those are always nice to have, I’ve never had the luck,” the woman said with a smile. Her voice sounded like honey and it was pleasant to listen to. But between Chrissa’s warnings and this woman seeming to lay on thick whatever it was they were trying, River let a chuckle escape them. “What?” she asked with a slight tilt of her head.

“You’ve struck out Misae,” Chrissa said, coming back over with a martini glass with pink liquid in it. “You managed to pick the one ace human in the whole establishment.”

“I doubt that,” River remarked, the venn diagram of “ace being” and “human” in this establishment was a thin middle ground, but not one person thin. At least, as far as River knew. Misae however chuckled and smiled.

“Then I’m terribly sorry about all of that,”

“Ah don’t worry about it, you’re still pretty and I like getting hit on by pretty women even if they are trying to mildly charm me.” River said with a grin. “I’m River,” they said, offering their hand.

“Misae as Chirssa mentioned, charmed to meet you River,” She said, shaking hands with a gentle grace. When they released each other's hands, Misae furrowed her brow. “Nothing?” She asked which got another laugh out of River. “Not a thing,” they said.

“Wow…” Misae said with a sigh as she took a sip of her drink. River thought she’d leave and go find another target before a grin came onto her lips. “Would you mind coming and pranking my friends? I’ve got one who needs to be taken down a peg and I think you’ll be my secret weapon.” She asked. River looked over at Chrissa who gave a short nod.

“If it’s who I think it is, they’ll knock him down several pegs.” She said, River turned back to Misae who was still grinning, more conspiratorial than sensual, they snuck a quick glance to where Lacey and Scott were still curled up together before facing Misae again.

“Yeah why not,” they said as they popped off their barstool. Misae giggled and offered her hand, a hand that River took, as she dragged them to a booth tucked into the back of the bar, it was an eight person booth currently filled with three similar looking individuals, in so much as they weren’t human and definitely had demonic lineage. River did their best to not make assumptions, but judging on what Misae had brought them over to achieve, the members of the table were all various forms of incubi. Concubi? Was that the technical term? One on the edge of the seating arrangement was a light blue man with his horns curving up from his forehead and a darker blue coloring on his cheek that River had a hard time telling if it was a blush or makeup.

“Mis, who’s this?” He asked, his voice slightly higher than expected and a curious look on his face.

“This is River, River this is Azzy,” the light blue one who smiled slightly and River was pretty convinced that this was the closest they were going to experience an embarrassed incubus. “Kori,” a maroon inc who seemed to be the eldest of the group as he simply smiled at their appearance. He had long hair tied up in a bun and River felt a little bit more at ease seeing him. “And Joliet,” another maroon skinned being who was grinning, he also had tied up black hair, though he wore jewelry on his horns. “Where’s Rose?” Misae asked as she gestured for River to sit next to Joliet. She sat down next to Azzy across the table and River tried not to feel like they’d been suddenly thrown off the deep end.

“Bathroom.” Azzy said.

“Biblically speaking,” Joliet quickly added. River chuckled a little at the need for clarification. Something told them that for him it was actually necessary. They also suspected he was probably their target.

“Ah, well, that’s chill.”

“Mis what are you planning?” Kori asked with a slight glare directed at his friend. Ah, he was the dad friend.

“Oh nothing, just a lil bit of karmic justice,” Misae said with a grin that was anything but innocent. Joliet leaned over to River and whispered in their ear.

“Blink twice and I’ll get you out of here,” he said with a smirk. River stared at him with a smirk of their own and Joliet broke into a laugh. “Oh they’re good,”

“Seriously Mis, what’s going on?” Kori asked.

“It’s payback for Rose stealing my mark last week.” Misae said.

“And how is this gonna be payback?” Kori asked. “You just put a perfectly beautiful human in front of him, if anything all this is going to do is insure none of us sleep tonight,” he said.

“Oh you’ll see,” Misae said, throwing a wink River’s way. River tried to not blush at being called beautiful and simply kept their game face on.

“What’ll Kor see?” A navy blue inc asked. He wore a grey t-shirt and dark black jeans and River saw the issue. Between golden eyes and a charisma that dripped off of him, even as unaffected as River was, he knew who and what he was and was well aware that manipulating people was second nature. He’d been looking over at Kori before scanning the table and landing on River. “Oh… oh hello,” he said. His voice was warmer than Misae’s was, more a whiskey than a true honey, but it didn’t hit River the way they imagined he intended. “If you’d scootch in sugar,” he said. To play along, River did so, pressing a little closer to Joliet in the process. River snuck a glance at the others who all looked a little nervous, even Misae, but River softly shook their head, hiding it by pushing their bangs off their forehead a bit. “Now, hello. I’m Rosair, you can call me Rose,” he said as he offered his hand to shake. River took it with a smirk of their own.

“Nice to meet you Rose, River,” they said. Rosair took their hand and kissed the back of it and River chuckled. “You do this to all the pretty people who cross your path?” They asked.

“Yes,”

“Then I can see why Misae and Chrissa put me up to this,” they said with a chuckle. Rosair furrowed his brow to which River only grinned. “I’m ace Rose, you’re just pretty.” Rosair looked over at Misae who was grinning.

“Payback’s a bitch Rosie,” she said.

“Ah no matter, you’re still here.” he said with a small smirk that seemed to indicate he wasn’t done yet.

“Sure,” River said as they tapped his shoulder. “So, other than trying to pick up people at bars, what do you lot do?” They asked with a tilt of their head. Even Misae looked a little surprised at the question. “What? You think I’m just gonna go back to the bar and go back to sitting alone? C’mon now, you guys are not that dumb.” Joliet broke out of the stunned silence first with a laugh.

“You’ll have to forgive them, they’re very used to transactional interactions and have not quite figured out just normal interactions, I work at a tattoo parlor.” He said with a smile.

“Interesting, Kori?” River asked, glancing a little around Joliet.

“Oh uh, I work at a bakery. Mostly donuts and cake.” He said.

“I’ll definitely have to try it some time, assuming you’re any good,”

“I’m mostly the counter, but Mandy, who actually owns the place, is quite good.” Kori clarified.

“Azzy?” River asked with a raised eyebrow, watching him fight off the dark blue crawling onto his cheeks.

“I work at a thrift shop.”

“I’m a grad student,” Misae said, “mostly focusing on art and culture, and Rosair’s a mooch.”

“I think the technical term is gold digger,” Joliet commented.

“I thought it was drifter,” Kori chimed in.

“None of you are correct, I’m a freelancer.” Rosair said with a roll of his eyes.

“That’s what we said: a freeloader.” Azzy said and River had to quickly get closer to Joliet as Rosair nearly vaulted over the table to get at his friend. River laughed a little and looked over at Rosair for the first time since he sat down.

“What’s your specialty?” They asked leaning on the table and cutting off the others physically a bit, which got a gasp from Joliet.

“Graphic design,” he said.

“You any good?”

“I’ve been told so, but you’re welcome to find out,” he said with a smirk returning. River laughed a little.

“Okay, yeah, I walked into that one,” they said as the giggles subsided.

The conversation continued on like that for a while, giggles and quips and jokes at everyone’s expense. River learned that Kori, Misae, and Azzy had known each other since high school, Joliet wasn’t technically an inc but his dad had been, so his cambion status gave him a weird in when they were in college with the other three, and Rosair had needed people to help pay the rent on his, in Azzy’s words, “fucking massive” apartment which had led to their loose confederation of people. Joliet called them “the Inc Den” which only got a groan out of Kori. They were pleasant and funny, and River tried not to think about how they were the first friends they’d made outside of work in three years.

When Misae had left the table to get drinks, River felt their phone vibrate and they tried not to groan as they fished it out of their pocket.

“Careful sugar,” Rosair said. He’d tucked himself in close next to River even after the rejection and they kept their phone in the pocket next to him.

“Shut up Rose,” they muttered as they clicked it on.

From Lacey Loo: hey…. I’m sorry. Tell drake i’ll pay for his breakfast.

River tried not to slam their head on the table in response. They tried not to think about how normal it was that Lacey didn’t even have to say much for River to get the whole picture. They changed their text channels and started texting Drake.

To Drake-ula: please tell me your couch is open

From Drake-ula: sorry dude, ditto situation

To Drake-ula: a) get some, roger’ll expect a review b) fuck you fine c) please tell me it isn’t roger

From Drake-ula: you think too lowly of me, it isn’t roger. And fuck you too, see you tomorrow.

River went to change chats again when Joliet piped up, “What’s with the angry eyes Riv?” He asked.

“My roommate just sexiled me and my go-to couch did the same.” They said as they pulled up Roger’s contact.

To Roger Snake: please tell me I can crash on a pile of pillows

The lack of instantaneous reply led to River looking at the time. The fact that it was a little after midnight meant Roger wouldn't even be up, the early sleeper he was. “Fuck!” They hissed.

“Aren’t you a little old to get sexiled?” Kori asked.

“Do you want to be in the same apartment as a werewolf having sex when he’s noisy even unshifted?” River asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Fair enough,” Kori said almost immediately. River sighed and tried to think of literally anyone else who might be okay with them crashing. Derek usually didn’t want anyone in his apartment except for holiday dinners, Chasen was out of town, and Al lived with six other people and they usually had people on the couch. They felt bad for Nox, who could technically leave the apartment, didn’t like doing it so they usually just suffered in silence and berated Lacey in the mirror the following morning.

“You could stay with us sugar,” Rosair said. River looked over at him with a look of confused amusement.

“Bet you say that to all the pretty people,”

“Actually we have a “no marks in the apartment” policy,” Azzy said. “It ensures we all sleep and don’t end up in this very situation,” he added.

“Why should I?”

“Because going back to your place means a very vocal werewolf,” Rosair said.

“And we have a pull out couch.” Kori cut in quickly.

“And they think you're cute and the fact that you haven’t run for the hills after nearly two hours with us is a sign they might want to keep you around,” Joliet whispered in River’s ear. Joliet had quickly become a grounding element at the table. He seemed to translate the unspoken wants of everyone with ease of exetend exposure. River tried not to flush a little at the comment.

“Can I convince you all to swear on no funny business?” They asked cautiously.

“Absolutely, just a couch,” Kori said. River looked over at Rosair who chuckled but nodded.

“On my name, there’ll be no funny business, just a couch.” River glanced at Azzy and Misae who nodded in agreement.

“We’re with them.” Misae said. River did a quick pro-con list in their head and sighed.

“Alright, yeah, I’d love it if I could crash on your couch,” they said.

“Then we should probably get out of here,” Kori remarked. Misae stood up and allowed him and Azzy out of the booth. Rosair did the same for River and Joliet. River quickly realized that other than Azzy and Misae, River was the shortest amongst the group, and even Azzy had his horns for a little bit of extra height. As they started walking for the door, River caught Chrissa’s eye who only slightly furrowed her brow and came a dash closer

“Rio,” she said. The group stopped and River went over to the bar, leaning over on their elbows.

“What’s up?” They asked.

“You’re fully conscious and aware you’re leaving with these people right?” Chrissa asked. River chuckled slightly and nodded.

“Yeah, Drake’s got someone over and Lacey kicked me out, they’re letting me crash on their couch,” River said. They appreciated the check, really, it was out of character for River to leave Labyrinth with anyone other than Lacey, Drake, or even Roger if they managed to catch him early enough.

“Alright, text me in the morning, yeah?” She said, which River nodded without comment. They went back over to the others and they continued their way out of the bar, River saluting Frankie at the door as a symbol that they were leaving willingly. Frankie let out a low growl but nodded as they let Kori lead the group to the apartment.

It wasn’t a far walk from the Labyrinth, probably why they favored it like Lacey and River did, and it was actually surprisingly closer to work than River’s own apartment. Which meant it was in the opposite direction of their apartment making changing before work tomorrow a challenge. Maybe they could? No, no that’d be pushing it. They’d just ask Derek to have a spare set in the back room when they got in. When the group reached the complex, River realized why Rosair had needed help with the rent, it was not an inexpensive building, even if Rosair was as good as he said he was. They all piled into the elevator with Azzy practically leaning on Misae out of exhaustion. Kori was scrolling through his phone while Joliet was fishing out the keys. They reached the sixth floor and wandered down the hall a little before opening the door.

The main space was fairly open, a decent size kitchen off to the right, a television on a stand by far wall in between two doors. There was a small set of stairs that seemed to lead into a small hallway. If River had to guess, they were going to go with the idea that that’s probably where the den’s bedrooms were.

“Bathroom’s the left door, I’ll help with the couch when you come out,” Joliet said. Having been relieved from bed duty, Azzy and Misae wandered their way upstairs. River nodded once and wandered into the bathroom that was quite well furnished for a half bath. They quickly went and splashed some water on their face and came back to Kori and Joliet waiting for them. Joliet had tugged the bed out and it looked really comfy, even by pull out bed standards, as Kori had seemed to stack pillows and extra blankets on the end. Kori then handed over a pair of sweatpants.

“Figured you didn’t want to sleep in jeans,” he said and River couldn’t tell because the apartment was dark, but they could’ve sworn Kori was a little flustered.

“Thanks Kor,” River said with a small smile. Kori nodded and untied his hair as he wandered over to the stairs, shaking it out and running his hand through it. River tried not to be mesmerized by the gesture but based on Joliet’s chuckle they were unsuccessful.

“I’m pretty convinced that’s why he keeps it tied up,” Joliet remarked.

“Probably, he could cause traffic accidents like that.”

“Wait until he reminds you he can be a whore,” Joliet said.

“Huh?” River said with a small flush of pink.

“Kori doesn’t like to advertise he’s an incubus, rather just let people think he’s a slightly tall tiefling. Hell, if he could survive without having to feed, he’d do it. But every once and a while either Misae or Rosair will convince him to dress up and it tends to lead people to have a hard time keeping their hands to themselves.” Joliet said. “But, enough chatter, I’m the door to the right, if you need anything just knock. Most of us don’t get up before noon, but I’m your best bet if you need something in the morning.

“Like a different t-shirt?” River asked.

“Oh yeah, I’ll even loot a pair of underwear if you need it.”

“I don’t think--”

“Don’t worry, Rose won’t notice.” Joliet said with a smirk. River tried not to laugh too loudly at the prospect.

“Thanks Jols,” they said. Joliet grinned and held their arm out, allowing River to come into his side if they wanted to. They did, with ease tucking themselves into his side and receiving a quick squeeze.

“No worries darling, I’ll talk to you tomorrow, yeah?” He said with a smile. River nodded and quickly disappeared back into the bathroom to change into the sweatpants that anyone with eyeballs could tell weren't theirs, but they didn't really mind. They were comfy and that was all that mattered. They tiptoed back out and carefully curled up in the pile of blankets. This.... this was good.

#exophilia #terato #demon boyfriend #demon girlfriend #exophilia writing #nonbinary lead #incubus #sucubus #my writing

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spacesuitsforemergency · 4 years

Text

Everyone Loves Jaime Reyes

Word Count: 2.2k

Requested by @lina-lovebug: Jaime Reyes x Bucky Barnes daughter! Reader? And when they finally meet, Scarab is like, "Jaime Reyes, your heart rate has increased" "Jaime Reyes, he wants to kill you"

A/N: loved this prompt so I made this a short oneshot! Bucky is literally my favorite person to write as a dad (Music Meister is a close second tho)

“Jaime, you have got to chillax, dude.” Tye watched as his friend paced back and forth in front of the tv. “And move, I’m trying to watch the game.”

“This is a little more important than football, Tye!” Jaime snapped, running a hand through his hair.

You were on your way to his house, along with your father. And your father was the Winter Soldier, Bucky Barnes. The man with a huge metal arm that could probably kill someone with his thumb. Jaime’s parents were cooking in the kitchen, his sister was over at her friends house, and he called up Tye for moral support. And oh how helpful he was being, as usual.

“Okay, but stop pacing, you’re driving me nuts.” Tye rolled his eyes. “You need to calm yourself. It’s just the Winter Soldier. It’s not like it’s...I don’t know, Doctor Doom.”

“But it’s the Winter Soldier! He used to be an assassin! His best friend is Captain America! He’s an Avenger, hermano! What do you mean ‘it’s just the Winter Soldier’?!” Jaime grabbed Tye’s shoulders and shook him.

“Jaime, let’s not give Tye whiplash, please?” Jaime’s mother calls from the kitchen. “I’m off the clock, I will not be setting any broken bones tonight.”

“Sorry, mami.” Jaime sighed, smoothing out Tye’s shirt.

“Anyways...just act like you always do, everyone loves you.” Tye motioned for Jaime to get out of the way of the tv. “And maybe take a deep breath before you pass out.”

Jaime nods but doesn’t take the deep breath.

‘Jaime Reyes, your heart rate is dangerously high. I suggest following the Tye Longshadow’s instructions.’ Khaji Da piped up.

“I told you no side commentary today! What part of that do you not understand?” Jaime hissed at the Scarab.

Tye raised an eyebrow at Jaime, honestly worried about his friends sanity. He knew Khaji Da was probably talking Jaime’s ear off right now, but the dude needed to calm down. Meeting girlfriends parents was always nerve wracking, so it was reasonable for Jaime to be slightly panicked about meeting an Avenger.

Jaime jumped when his phone buzzed, and quickly dove for it. He picked it up, reading a text from you.

“They’re five minutes away!” Jaime shouted to nobody in particular, dashing down the hall to the bathroom. He checked his hair for the millionth time that day, wanting to look perfect for you. He took a few deep breaths, finally heeding Tye and Khaji Da’s words. He ignored Tye yelling at the tv and his parents cooking, just trying to remain calm. That didn’t last long, when he heard the doorbell rang.

“Jaime, that’s for you!” His father shouted down the hall.

“Should I get that or can you handle not going into cardiac arrest?” Tye asked from the couch as Jaime rushed to the door.

Jaime took one more breath, before slapping a smile on his face and opening the door.

“Y/N! Hi, mi rey!” He smiled happily, temporarily forgetting about the giant man behind you. He leaned down to kiss you on the cheek, then stepped aside. “Come on in.”

“Hi Mr and Mrs. Reyes!” You wave to them. “Hey Tye!”

“Sup?” Tye nods in acknowledgement, not taking his eyes off the football game.

“Hi Mr. Barnes, I’m Jaime.” He holds out his hand to your dad. He looks him up and down slowly, before finally, and very firmly shaking his hand.

“Nice to meet you, Jaime.” He says quietly. His eyes are narrowed at the boy as if he were suspicious of him, and his mouth was twisted in a frown.

“Dad, be nice.” You say through your teeth. You had told your dad to go easy on Jaime, and to try and not give him a heart attack. Your dad was always kind and gentle with you, but it was a completely different story with any of your boyfriends. You loved Jaime and wanted this relationship to work out, so you warned your dad to not scare him away.

“I am.” He muttered, eyes wandering to the tv. “What’s the score, kid?”

“Cowboys are loosing 13-22!” Tye shouted angrily, crushing an empty soda can in his hand. “And it’s the last 3 minutes!”

“Told you your team sucks.” You snicker, then laugh harder at the glare you receive.

“I’m gonna watch the rest of the game.” Your dad tells you, then glared at Jaime until he’s sitting on the couch.

‘Jaime Reyes, the Bucky Barnes has hostile intentions towards you. I suggest we neutralize him.’ Scarab says.

“We’re not killing anyone, Scarab!” Jaime whispered.

“Ignore him.” You tell Jaime, in deference to your dad. “He’s a big Teddy Bear, he’s just a little...”

“Terrifying?”

“I was going to say overprotective, but that also works.” You giggle. “Don’t let him scare you. I promise by the end of dinner he’s going to love you.” You give him a reassuring smile, along with a kiss on the cheek.

“Jaime, will you come help set the table?” His mom asks from the kitchen.

“Coming, mami!” He rushed over. You follow and help him set down plates and silverware, despite his mom insisting he’s got it.

“Oh come on!” Your dad and Tye both groan at the tv, as the game ends and the team lost.

Your dad introduces himself to Jaime’s parents in the kitchen, while Tye joins you two in the dining room.

“Your dads cool. Even if he’s a Colts fan.” Tye says as he plops down in his seat, not offering to help finish setting the table. “What are you so worried about Jaime? He’s chill.”

“You’re not dating his daughter.” Jaime mumbled as you giggled.

“Got me there, man.” Tye leaned back in his seat.

You all sit down for dinner, your dad easily has a nice conversation with Jaime’s parents. Jaime listens to every word his parents say, signaling to stop if they start to talk about something embarrassing or stupid he’s done.

From your point of view it’s going really well. Your dad and Jaime’s parents easily start chatting about...whatever it is adults like to talk about. You watch as Jaime’s hands shake nervously as he eats, and his eyes are darting between his parents and your dad as they speak. Tye’s not paying attention, digging into his food as if he hadn’t eaten in his life.

“So Jaime, do you play any sports?” Your dad finally turns to him.

“Uh...I’m on the basketball team, yeah.” Jaime nodded, stuttering as he spoke. “Used to play baseball too.”

“Basketball, nice.” Your dad nodded in approval. “You any good?”

“Jaimes on varsity.” You smiled.

“He’s a star point guard.” Mr. Reyes smiled. “We’re very proud of him.”

”And what grades do you get?”

“Straight A’s, sir.”

“Do you have a drivers license?”

“Um...yes.”

“You don’t sound sure about that.”

“I’m sorry, Uh...I have my drivers license sir.”

“Mm hm. Have you had a job yet?”

“Dad!” You hiss at him, giving him The Look™️. Mr and Mrs. Reyes look between the three of you, actually trying not to laugh. They both get that a father can be protective of their daughter, so they understood all the questions directed towards their son.

You and your dad narrow your eyes at one another, as if challenging each other. Jaime makes eye contact with his parents, shrugging. Then Bucky glares down at the kid, making his eyes widen in fear.

“Can somebody pass the pico?”

You all slowly turn to Tye, who apparently didn’t realize the tension in the air between your boyfriend and...everyone. He looks up from his plate expectedly, raising an eyebrow at everyone.

“What?”

“Oh por el amor de Dios.” Jaime shook his head as his mother passed it over, then smacked her sons hand. “Ow! What?”

“Cuidado con lo que dice.” She mumbled to him.

“Am I missing something?” Tye asked.

‘Kill the Tye Longshadow. He is too stupid to allow to live.’ Khaji Da folds Jaime. He bit back his response, but didn’t let the Scarab activate the armor.

Dinners quiet after that, awkward tension now in the air. Jaime got even more anxious, worried that he completely ruined it and that your dad truly hated him.

‘Jaime Reyes, your mate is growing angry. I suggest you calm her.’ Scarab alerts him.

He looks over and noticed you glaring at your dad, both of you raising your eyebrows at each other as if you were telepathically communicating. Your fists are balled up in your lap, and he discreetly places his over yours under the table. You loosen one hand and intertwine your fingers with his, slowly cooling off.

‘Jaime Reyes. We should annihilate the Bucky Barnes. He will get in the way of your companionship with your mate.’

“Stop.” Jaime whispers as quiet as he can, but everyone could hear it in the tense silence.

“So...who’s up for dessert?” Mr. Reyes stands up, taking some of the empty plates.

“Allow me.” Your dad clears his throat, taking the rest of the plates and following him to the kitchen. Mrs. Reyes gives an awkward smile before following them. You look at The expectantly, but he doesn’t take the hint to leave and just pulls out his phone.

“Khaji Da, I told you not today!” Jaime scolds the Scarab. “Man, I’m totally blowing this, aren’t I?”

“No you’re not.” You reassure him. “I’m gonna talk to him again, I told him to knock off interrogation mode.”

“Are you sure?” He asked, still not quite believing that he’s making a good impression on your father.

“Positive. You’re on varsity basketball, I’m surprised he hasn’t asked more about that.” You rubs his shoulder. “Try to bring that up again, he loves sports.”

“Ooh, and tell him about the big win last season.” Tye smacked his arm, not looking up from his phone. “And tell him how you stole the ball from me.”

“For the last time you passed it to me, it’s not my fault I happened to make the wining shot-“

“Hey!” You snap your fingers. “We don’t have time for your saltiness, Tye.”

“I am not salty.” He grumbled, but you both ignore him.

“Just keep up the sports talk, it’ll be fine.” You tell Jaime.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, Jaime!”

“I’m just making sure!”

He shuts up when he sees the parents all coming back to the table, setting down plates of chocolate cake for everyone. You thank Mrs. Reyes before beginning to eat, nudging Jaime to tell him to start talking. He shook his head and shrugged, not really knowing how to start up the conversation.

“Hey dad, did you know Jaime scored the winning point for the tournament last season?” You clear your throat.

“Really? That’s impressive.” Bucky perks up. “How’d it go down?”

Jaime excitedly tells him (in much detail) about the last minute of the game and how him and Tye scores the winning points. He’s smiling and motioning around as he answers your dads many questions about it, and you feel better about this dinner now. You think it’s really cute when he talks about something he’s passionate about, so you catch yourself gazing at him.

“Well maybe you two can come down to the Avengers Compound, and Y/N and I can put you punks in your place.” Your dad grins and lightly punches Jaime’s arm. “If that’s okay with you, Mr. and Mrs. Reyes.”

“Jaime’s a superhero, I think some basketball will do him some good.” His mom stands up to take her empty plate to the sink, ruffling Jaime’s hair as she passed.

“Mom!” Jaime swatted her hand away, smoothing our his hair that he fixed for hours.

“Cool, can’t wait to crush you two.” Tye piped up, finally putting away his phone and opting to cross his arms.

“You wish, Cowboys fan.” Your dad scoffed.

“Oh yeah, Colts fan? We’ll see about that.” Tye challenged.

“No more football talk at the table.” You scold them.

“Well, we have to get going.” Your dad announces. “It was so nice to meet you.”

“You as well, Mr. Barnes.” Mr. Reyes smiles and shakes his hand.

You follow your dad as he says his goodbyes, give your boyfriend a kiss, then leave with him.

“So? Do you like him?” You ask your father as you get into the car.

“I actually do like this one. He’s polite and respectful.” He nodded as he started the car. “Sorry for grilling him back there, I didn’t realize I was doing it.”

“It’s alright. You liked him and that’s what matters.” You grinned.

“No, you like him and that’s what matters.” He corrected you.

“I love you, daddy.” You lean over to hug him.

“Love you too, babydoll.” He half hugged you. “Now get off I have to drive.”

You giggle and pull out your phone to text Jaime; He likes you! He says your polite and sweet!

Jaime reads the text and sighs in relief, thankful that the weight was lifted off his shoulders. Him and Tye were in his room now, preparing to play a new video game that just came out.

“Is that her? What’d she say?” Tye asked as he turned on the XBOX.

“He liked me.” Jaime set his phone down and picked up his controller. “Thank god, I thought I was gonna die.”

“Drama queen.” Tye mumbled.

‘Jaime Reyes, the Bucky Barnes still seemed to have hostile intentions towards you. I insist that we kill him.’

“Khaji Da, I am not telling you again!”

#marvel #dc #request #young justice #jaime reyes #jaime reyes x reader #jaime reyes x barnes! reader #barnes! reader #bucky barnes #winter soldier #tye is just so helpful #tye longshadow #blue beetle x reader #blue beetle

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gaeullie · 3 years

Text

bye bye 2020, hello 2021 !!

happy new year everyone!! there’s a lot of people i want to thank for making last year so much more bearable so i tried writing some messages for some of my dearest mutuals this year as well!! (keyword tried because i absolutely cannot put my feelings and thoughts into words. i love you all though and thank you so so so much!!!)

@angelhyunjin : angi!! i know you’re not on here anymore (actually i just found out . i ran to twt to find u as quick as i could!!) but it felt weird not?? putting you on here because you WERE a big part of my year!! i was always excited to chat with you and i rlly rlly loved (still do) seeing your art and your dance covers i can’t believe how talented at both you are!! you are really really lovely and even if it’s been a while i hope you know i still think of you and hope you’re doing well!! this year might have been hard but i hope 2021 will be much nicer to you because you definitely deserve it!! i love you!!

@cinanamon : stephie!! i think we haven’t talked in a while until we started suddenly bonding over minho but all is well that ends well because now we are the founders of a minho cult and that’s all i could hope for in life i think! we don’t talk that much but seeing your tags in all the minho posts is always a TIME i absolutely love reading them! thank you for being there to lose it over minho, always, but also for being there in general! you are really sweet and i do love to talk to u!! i also know you are a really good writer so i hope 2021 brings you lots of inspiration to write more!! (and i’ll finally catch up on your fics too! hehe) happy new year!!

@cocogoat : puppy !! i think we haven’t been friends for long actually and that sounds fake because that would mean there was a time i didn’t instinctively check your blog when i woke up in the morning (or the evening let’s be real)?? you are so! adorable and for what!!!!!! i really do love seeing you pop up in my phone notifs and reading your posts even if i dont have any idea what they’re saying half of the time unless it’s dgrp (i cannot believe i have a dgrp friend now. amazing i think i won) u are so funny and so cute and i’m really glad i got to know you because!! you’re such a nice friend that i! love! times can be hard but i hope 2021 is gentle with you because that is! what! you deserve! gentle pats and tight hugs! (maybe that’s why i associate ab6ix’s heaven with you it’s the gentle vibes) <3

@glossiers : miss bri i am in love w u that’s it. no i’m kidding that’s not it i have much more to say . i am in lov w u though #brillie2k21 i think. i think it’s been a surprisingly short time since we’ve actually started talking?? which is kinda crazy if u ask me because?? how the hell did i live my life without screaming BRIIIII whenever i see u on the dash like for real how . that sounds like a life so empty like. that would rlly be missing . something?? anyways u are a dear dear friend that i really really love and i’m sure you know that but i will keep saying it anyway! i’m sure i’m pretty annoying so thanks for putting up with me! and for talking to me! i feel like i’ve said it before but! you are a delight to see on the dash and i lovlovlov talking to u (and sending u pics of my cats, thank u for appreciating them). i still cannot believe u managed to convince yourself i was a hyeongjun stan though. hope i can be convincing enough to clear that up and leave no doubts in your brain this year. anyways i love you and i hope we can continue to be friends and talk even MORE this year!!!!!! happy new year ilu <3

@hwacinth : miss dia my sweet sweet floral nymph real life shirayuki and queen of urls! i am? so so so so so glad that we are friends you literally have my heart it is YOURS i can’t even try to claim it back!! you literally are shirayuki i don’t even know how to elaborate i think it’s just self-explanatory but you are just. such a sweet little sunshine!! it’s like you bring spring everywhere you go!! we could be in a middle of a metaphorical storm but when you appear the skies clear up and flowers bloom wherever you step and i cannot help but smile when i see you online!! thank you so so much for being my little ray of sunshine in these tough times! i hope to see even more of your posts this year!! don’t hesitate to live blog anything you watch in my dms if you feel like you’re posting too much (but i hope you never feel that way because you’re not . love seeing u live post it is absolutely amazing i won’t ever get tired of it)!! happy new year and i love you!! ps only 1 more hour until your birthday HAPPY BIRTHDAY DIA ILUUU <3 I HOPE YOU CAN HAVE A WONDERFUL ONE!! IM SENDING YOU CAKE TELEPATHICALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

@hwisgf : sorinaaaa! happy new year!! we don’t talk that much but it is always nice seeing you around! you are vv sweet and i really appreciate that, thank you for taking the time to talk to me sometimes!! you are also probably my only fantasy mutual?? which is terrible on one side because i think everyone should stan sf9 but that’s besides the point . i really do love the fact that i at least have u to talk to abt sf9 if need and i LOVE seeing u in love with hwi it is absolutely amazing. i am forever grateful for all the free hwi pics days too!! <3 i hope 2021 can be a year full of happiness for you!! (also that is also besides the point but @ fnc i want an sf9 cb announcement) ILY!! (and so does hwi)

@inkigayeo : miss vivi galaxy brain happy new year!! we only started talking recently but u do have my heart already!! i hope this year treats you well and that we can get to know each other more and be friends hehe!!!! <3 (my other wish is for u to stop breaking my heart with those fake titles. please . why should san NOT come back explain yourself .)

@jeongcheols : mimi . mimi mimi mimi im literally typing this as u are listening to that ten n dj stage ok now it’s kai ok anyways . ANYWAYS i am loving your sm concert live commentary . criminal is sounding amazing taemin is insane indeed (yes i took a break before coming back to writing this) i truly don’t know what to say?? n i have to keep watching the time so that i can scream HAPPY NEW YEAR into the mic in 14 minutes. but like?? i love you?? like. like for real i don’t know what i would’ve done without you?? also it’s weird writing this for tumblr instead of just in your messages (also i can’t focus with idea playing. idea soty). and i mean. you technically know all of this but like?? i can’t believe we’ve known each other for so long but also such a short time at the same time like. what. thank you for being my bestestest friend and my soulmat i don’t think i would’ve been able to remain sane this year (and last year too honestly) if it wasn’t for you?? thank you for always listening to my incoherent rants and i’m always so sorry for spamming you while you’re asleep i know you must wake up to like 150+ messages with absolutely no connection between them and they’re all just so random i truly don’t know how you manage to not get annoyed and to just stay with me all this time i’m- getting emotional. you had a terrible year, i know it! i really do!! and while it might not be looking too bright right now, i hope the universe hears me and treats you much better in 2021 because!! you deserve so much more!! you deserve the world, really!!! i love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (i would write more really but like what is there to say literally i’m just (your emoji)) i love you for real;;

@nakyngs : ele <3 happy new year!!!!!! we haven’t talked much this year but i do think of u a lot daily i hope you know that!! and i love u a lot! even if i still need to catch up on all your aus </3 i hope 2021 can be a fun and stress-free year for you!! and we should catch up sometime too!! ps i hope your fish are ok

@ncityzen : dear spring fairy!! i already sent you a new year’s message earlier today like what. 6 hours ago but! once again!! i really do hope you can leave the hard times behind in 2020 and only get the best things possible this new year!! i’m always very happy to see you appear on my dash and curious to see your life updates and your random literature-related mini-rants in the tags they are always very interesting to see!! so! hoping to see even more of that this year <3 i hope you know that i love you and i really care about you!!

@woojjongs : MISS IRI! i am screaming this very loud so hopefully u can hear me all the way in canada! okay i had to leave this one for last because i?? don’t really know how to start i’m just a pink glittery puddle with lil hearts flowing in it that is how i feel towards u right now . how does one think and how does one write down their thoughts coherently give me a second. this is going to be a mess maybe u shouldn’t read it (‘accidentally’ forgets to tag u). just know that i decided to play txt’s wishlist to write this and u might be confused by that but all u need to know is that it means i love you very much. OKAY so miss iri you are . such a wonderful pal i truly don’t know what i would’ve done without you like . it would feel so weird not seeing you around tumblr would be so so so so empty i don’t even think you can begin to imagine how empty i’d feel without you around here ksdjbskbds i absolutely adore you but we already knew that. i’m always super excited to see your gifsets and your nonsense!! be it your love for woojong or u missing lim jimin (play m.. 🔪) or your snoo brainrot or hating literally anyone on smtm or whatever else it might be i love it all!! you are so cute and adorable and talented and sweet and funny i cannot believe you also happen to be the prettiest person on earth too. how does that feel! anyways i love you so so so so so much? i keep telling you to hold back from committing crimes but i absolutely WOULD commit a crime for u i really do adore you!! i mean . how many groups did u make me stan . (ok actually i don’t think there’s that many. but STILL) i know i can be super annoying but thank u for taking the time to chat with me nonetheless!! i’m all over the place but . there’s times i come online literally just to check your blog nothing else! i hope we can continue to be friends this year too n perhaps talk more (or the same amount idk please tell me off when i’m too annoying)!! happy new year, i hope it holds wonderful things in store for u!!!!!! and we really are starting off great since victon comeback is approaching <3 (this got way too long i’m so sorry i’ll cut it off now before i write 10 pages)

@xiaocity : miss siya hello hello hello first of all i’m just so very glad that you’re back i l o v e you!!! i love seeing you around be it your gifs or your text posts which yes. i cannot properly understand half of the time but google is my best friend after all! you’re such a wonderful person and i’m just?? really glad to have you around like?? you feel kind of like a cousin i don’t always get to see but am always excited to talk to when i can? this might not make sense but. you are vvv cool and talented and funny and feel very like. reliable? i feel like i am not making any sense so like ignore me. what i’m saying is i really really like you a whole lot and i really hope we can talk even more in 2021!! happy new year, i hope it’s a wonderful one for you!!

@yunwoo : miss anna we haven’t been moots for that long and we haven’t talked much but u are vvv cute and i hope we can become (better) pals this year!! i’m looking forward to seeing u on the dash more often, hopefully!! happy new year <3

#happy new year everyone i love you all;;;; thank you again!! hope 2021 treats you all nicely!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!#there's like a few mutuals i rlly do appreciate but didn't really have much to say to/abt because we haven't really . talked #i really do love all of you though!!!!!!!!!!;;;;;

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unknowncountrygirl · 3 years

Text

The New Chaser Pt. 5

Iris wanted to crawl back into her bed and just not get out. She had a tension headache that she was sure she would need to see Madam Pomfrey about before the house match. There was a little folded paper airplane sitting on her night stand and she picked it up.

A simple letter from Murphy asking if she would join him at breakfast for a game of Wizard Chess. She knew she had to eat something, maybe at least have something to drink. So slid on a pair of jeans, tossed on a white t shirt, and grabbed a sweater that she slid on while she walked out the door.

Murphy McNully arranged his wizard chess set on the Gryffindor table, waiting for Iris to join him. He had invited her to chat before her first match against Slytherin with the intent to sell her on using the Thimblerig Shuffle. He hoped she would see reason with using strategy rather then brute force or taking a more lackadaisical approach.

She saw Murphy sitting at the end of the table near the raised stage. She approached and all but plopped into the bench. He was so focused on arranging his chess pieces that he failed to see Iris approach and take a seat across from him at the table.

“I don't know if I can keep my mind of Wizard chess with the first Quidditch house match today.” She admitted, looking at what there was to eat. Iris ended up reaching for a apple fritter that looked sweet.

He noted that she looked like she slept rather roughly and her hair was pulled back into a messy ponytail.

“That's exactly why I invited you to play! So I can crush you at Wizard chess while your mind is elsewhere!”

“Murphy!” She said in a shocked tone.

“Nothing like a game of wits to remind you of the importance of strategy.” Welp, he had just blurted that out that quickly. He smacked himself mentally. “It's what sets apart the winners from the losers, the champs from the chumps, the high fliers from the low-”

“Is this invitation to play chess or just a ploy to get me to use the Thimblerig Shuffle?” She inquired with one of her eyebrows quirked in his direction. Though he didn't show it, he shifted under her scrutinizing gaze.

“Do you think my inviting you here is all a ploy?” He asked, almost fearing her answer.

“Absolutely I do.” Iris stated quickly. He had to admit, the fact that she felt he was only using her rather hurt.

“Well I can be your friend and still be actively strategizing at the same time.” He stated back, hoping she would understand that he was truly her friend and not just manipulating her.

“So you are?” She said with an air of mild intrigue as she cooly poured herself a cup of juice.

“Only because I think it will set you up to score.” He adjusted one of the pieces in front of him, “Besides I happen to know that Orion chose Gryffindor's newest Chaser to lead our house to victory today.”

“You know!” Her elbows made a thumping noise as she plopped them on the table and rested her head in her hands, “it's suppose to be unexpected that I'm calling the shots. That's Orion's whole plan.”

“Orion never has a 'whole plan' He goes with whatever strikes him in the moment. Sometimes it's a stray bludger.”

“You're not helping.” Her voice was low as she rubbed her forehead.

“Don't fret. There's less than 1.3% chance that Slytherin will know what role you'll be playing.” He added quickly.

“Yeah, but, there's still a lot of pressure on me, considering this is my first match.”

“Here,” he moved one of the pawns on the chess board, “lets chat while I beat you at a game of chess.” He offered. Her big blue eyes looked up to him and he could see the trepidation and skepticism there as she rolled her eyes and reached out for a piece. “All eyes will be on you, Iris, but that's not a bad thing, people love a good underdog story.” He threw her a wink and she just grinned a shook her head.

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“Checkmate.” Murphy said as he placed the piece down.

“Again?” Iris exclaimed, looking down at the board. “You're impossible to beat!”

“Not true, but making you think so is part of my strategy.” He told her. Iris was silent a minute, and he could tell she was formulating something in that brain of hers, but when she spoke, it was his turn to be shocked by her question.

“What you were saying, about the pressure, all eyes on you, underdogs and such...” She trailed off, picking up the white King that had just knocked over her black King. “You were talking about you, weren't you?”

“Of course! You know how much I like talking about me.” He covered up his more vulnerable side with jokes and hoped Iris wouldn't see through him. So far, for his sixteen years of life, it had worked. “Besides, it's my first house match too. Being a commentator, I mean.”

“Well, it's easier for you to handle, you never seem nervous.” Iris admitted, reaching over to sip at her glass of juice.

“43.4%? Really?” Iris's eyes widened at this knew knowledge.

“Listen, Iris,” he rolled his shoulders, “I talk a good game, I talk a brilliant game... But when I come into a new spot, I know what I'm up against, how I'll be remembered when I leave. Not as 'that wizard with the dashing haircut' or 'that wizard with the stellar commentary skills', or in your case, 'that wizard who's a Quidditch genius and will kick your bum at chess.” She smiled and let out a soft hum at that. “I'll always be 'that wizard in the wheelchair'.” The look on Iris's face was the kind he had seen most of his life and he didn't want any pity, especially not from her. Iris had been one of the few people that came into his life and didn't seem to see his wheelchair first, she had never even brought it up. “Which I am of course, But I'm all those other things too. So because of that, I'm always trying to show everyone all that I am, all at once, and all the time.” He rubbed at the back of his neck, feeling rather exposed at putting it all out there all at once to her. “Perhaps it's why I'm so quick to push my words and ideas onto the Quidditch world.”

“Idea's like the Thimblerig Shuffle.” Iris nodded, her voice low and even.

“Sincerely, it's up to you. I'm done selling you on it. Just do me one favor,” he asked her, and she met his eyes. “Go out on that pitch and show everyone who you want them to remember, and waste no time.”

Iris smiled at him and nodded.

“You've given me a lot to think about Murphy.”

“When will you realize I'm your best mate and you should just start calling me McNully.”

“Maybe when you realize that's the reason I call you Murphy instead,” she smiled at him in a way that made his stomach flip. She stood up and stretched, “Or perhaps when I finally beat you at chess.” She added, placing her hands on her hips.

“So, never then?”

“Haha. Thank you, for your advice, Murphy. I really appreciate it, but I have to go down and get ready.”

“I need to prep too. I'll see you in the sky, Iris.”

Hagrid made his way up next to where Iris had stood up. Murphy was aware that Iris was on the shorter side, she wasn't much taller then he was when he was sitting in his chair, but next to Hagrid she looked dwarfed and he snickered.

“Big day fer the both o' yeh, first house match of the year, Sorry the interrup' yer game o' chess.”

“Oh don't worry Hagrid, we were finished.” Iris assured him.

“I've finished winning, is what Iris meant to say.” He and Iris exchanged glances and she just shook her head. “Have you come to wish us luck, Hagrid?”

“'Course. But I got a message for Iris, too. Professor McGonagal wants to see yeh'.”

“Oh. Is it something serious?”

“Yeh know how she is about Quidditch.”

“Ok, then I shouldn't keep her waiting.” Iris leaned over and squeezed Murphy's shoulder. “Next time I see you lets hope it's because we won.” He reached up and patted her hand on his shoulder.

“I have faith in you.” He told her honestly, hoping he conveyed that he truly did have all the faith in her.

“Really? Not going to rattle off a percentage?”

“Well I don't believe in absolutes, but it's close to 100.”

She smiled and pulled her hand off his shoulder before heading to the grand doors that lead out of the dining hall.

Murphy watched her retreating figure until she was out of sight.

“You've been spending a lot of time with Iris.” A boy a little further down the table spoke to him.

“Yeah, been trying to give her some strategies for Quidditch, she's got a ton of natural talent and I'd like to see her apply herself.” Murphy admitted as he started packing up his chess set.

“Well consider yourself lucky, she's normally to busy with the Weasley's, Lee and Copper. There's a bunch of us that would like some one on one time with her.”

“Yeah, well,” he replied. “I'm not so sure that she's interested in that kind of time with me.” He stated as he closed the box and sealed in his chess pieces.

“Oh come on, you are spending more time with her then most people these days, you can't tell me there's not something going on.” The other Gryffindor replied.

“There's not.” Murphy slammed his chess set case closed harder then he intended and it seemed to startle the other into silence.

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Murphy knew that Iris would more then likely attend the party before the game, and he needed to find her to get her to the tent because he knew that Orion would be doing his moment of Vivication. He wheeled down to the training grounds and searched for her but shockingly, did not see her anywhere.

“Facepaint kid!” He called when he saw him, “have you seen Iris?”

“Last I saw her she was with Penny.” Ok so now he had to find two blondes.

He spotted the two blondes down from the grounds, near a tree, isolated from everyone having what looked to be a chat. He rolled up and caught the two girls off guard.

“Iris! What are you doing here? There's Quidditch to be played! The first of your three house matches! Lets go, lets go, lets go! Huge stakes await! Massive implications! Don't you know how much of your Quidditch future hinges on what happens on the pitch today?”

Had he actually stopped talking long enough he would have seen the almost terror like look in Iris's eyes as he talked, he would have noticed the way that Penny was comforting Iris in a way that should have made him realize that something was wrong.

But he didn't. He had unfortunately been so overly excited about the game, he had overlooked the way Iris seemed to have shriveled.

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The crowd was roaring, why wouldn't it be? The first house match was between Hogwarts biggest rivals, Slytherin vs. Gryffindor.

Iris came in the tent, feeling completely dejected. The weight of this decision was starting to worm it's way into the part of her mind that controlled her anxiety.

Orion, Skye and Murphy were waiting for her when she walked in. Murphy smiled brightly at her, noticing she had her long hair braided into two separate braids that hung down her back. He noticed though that there was something off about her and he was about to say something when Orion beat him to it.

“There you are! We were just talking about you!”

“All good things I hope?” Her voice sounded less light then normal, and he didn't care for that.

“Of course!” Skye quipped.

“At least 99.3% positive!” Murphy joked, hoping to lighten her mood.

“What about the .7%?” She asked. Well that backfired.

“Margin or error.” He smiled, hoping he was convincing enough.

“Whatever that means. Listen, there's always room for improvement.” Skye drawled.

“But at what point does one run out of room?” Orion asked, looking off into the distance like he was looking at a majestic mountain.

“No time for mind-benders, Captain. We're our first Quidditch house match to go and win right now.” She stated with authority.

“So this is it? It's time? Right now?” There was an urgency in Iris's voice that was foreign.

“Yes. How do you feel about holding the fate of our team in your hands?” Orion asked. Murphy looked up at Iris and it clicked. She was terrified. She didn't want this burden on her shoulders and yet it had been thrust upon her and Murphy felt animosity grow in him towards Orion.

For whatever reason, be that selfish or truly for the team, Orion had put the pressure of being the team Captain on Iris rather then himself. On someone who already had enough pressure on her shoulders, and he had aided in that pressure.

He wanted to kick himself.

“I'm not prepared to make these big decisions in our first house match.” Iris told him truthfully. This was it, it was the last moment for Orion to pull her out of the fire and let her just let her get her feet wet in her first match.

“The fact you aren't ready is exactly why Orion's put you in charge.” Skye smiled, and he wanted to punch out her kneecaps. Iris's eyes looked so sad.

“I have no doubt that everything shall work out as it should.” Orion stated serenely. Murphy felt his eye twitch. Anyone with eyes could see Iris's discomfort and it felt like Orion was purposefully ignoring her. She literally told him she wasn't ready and didn't want to do it, what else did he need. “Now, my teammates let us gather for a moment of vivification before we fly out onto the pitch.” Skye and Orion waled over to the benches and near the chalkboard in the corner.

“Moment of vivification?” Iris asked Murphy once they were alone.

“Fancy word for pep talk. His “Orion-isms' are suppose to be legendary. It's why I'm here!” They made their way over to the benches, and Iris sat, while everyone else stood. Perhaps it was her last act of rebellion if she was going to be forced to do this.

She sat at the end of the bench and leaned over towards Murphy, resting her elbow on the arm of his chair to prop her face up. She looked tired, glassy eyes, and defeated.

Orion was exceptionally animated as he gave his speech about Quidditch and making memories.

Skye huffed, “No 'moments of vivification' in professional Quidditch leagues.”

“I thought I was a talker.” Murphy whispered to Iris.

“I've never heard him talk in non riddles before, it's kind of refreshing.” She whispered back. Murphy calculated his chances of getting either slapped or having her pull away like she had been burned if he tried to grab her hand. 45.6% chance. He raised his hand and at first placed a feather light touch on her wrist, which caused her to lift her cheek from her hand, and then moved his fingers to grip hers.

“I can tell you're worried, but you got this.”

“I am Quidditch, you are Quidditch, we are Quidditch.” Orion drawled in front of them.

“Thank you, I just wish it wasn't all on me.” She admitted as he rubbed his thumb over the skin on the back of her hand. Orion had stilled for a second and Murphy looked up just in time to see the Quidditch Captain glaring in his direction.

“The time has come, my teammates!” Orion bellowed. “Remember, for this match, we will take our cues from Iris, once we are in the air.” Murphy looked up at Iris and she had a neutral face, if she had any left over anxiety about the game, she wasn't showing it now. “Let us go to the Quidditch Pitch and make Gryffindor proud!”

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Murphy watched awestruck as Iris owned the pitch. She was practically unstoppable, from stealing quaffles to scoring on a keeper. She soared like a bird. Regardless, the game was exceptionally close.

“This first house match could all come down to this next move!” He exclaimed as he saw Skye, Amari, and Iris lining up. Iris was leading them, and his heart sped up as he recognized what it was she was setting up for. “Looks like Rosewood is setting up for... Something never seen in a house match! Lets call it a Thimblerig shuffle!” He actually had a difficult time articulating the words, he was so ecstatic. “The Gryffindor chasers have moved into formation! They've got the Quaffle, and great odds of keeping it!”

Iris executed his play perfectly, and it looked better then he could have hoped for. He could hear the crowd outside already shouting and talking about it. He could hardly wait for the game to be over and find Iris.

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His chair was rolling as fast as he could get it. He was almost to the tent when he heard Iris's voice.

“Yes, but it wasn't my idea that I would be doing the deciding.” She stated. He was not going to let her simply sweep this victory under the rug. Iris was someone who seemed to constantly be in the spotlight, but she was always trying to get out of it, this time she was in the spotlight and he was going to make sure she shined. He rolled into the tent and shouted,

“240 points to 110! Gryffindor comes through with a big win!”

“Welcome, McNully. We were just in the middle of something-” Orion began but was quickly cut off by Skye.

“Right, we were just in the middle of wrapping up.” Her tone left no room for anything else. “About time, too, because Iris and I need to have a little post match chat.” Iris's eyes nearly doubled in size and Murphy felt his fist clench.

“It shall have to wait because I, too, need to speak with Iris.” Orion stated.

“Get in the queue! Needing a chat with Iris is why I'm here.” Murphy interjected quickly, if a bit harshly. He had to talk to Iris, for many reasons, Orion and Skye would have to wait.

“So... Each of you need to talk to me? Right now?” Iris questioned, looking like a deer in the headlights. If he could get them all to talk to Iris, about the game, then he could possibly get to chat with her alone about perhaps the meaning behind why she chose the Thimblerig Shuffle. There was a flicker of hope in his chest that perhaps, yes it was the best option, that she chose it because she had a sweet spot for him, a sweet spot that could be romantic. He felt like a rubber band pulled taught and about to snap.

“Suppose we chat all together then? Let's head to the pitch!” The sooner the better.

“Fine, but I need to change first.” Iris stated, grabbed her bag and exited the main part of the tent towards the changing stalls. She seemed a bit put off, and he hoped that he hadn't angered her. He quickly left with Orion and Skye to wait for Iris on the pitch.

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The three waited for her in silence. Iris came into view from the little tunnel and his heart beat a little faster, his favorite thing she wore, her denim and a white t-shirt, he'd have to focus harder with her in street clothes. Iris was barely on the pitch before Murphy blurted out,

“I'll say my piece first.”

“Should not the Captain lead this chat?” Orion questioned.

“Rubbish! I said I wanted to talk to Iris before either of you did.” Skye stated in her typical confident outspoken voice. Doubt it, Murphy thought, and actually about stated.

“Actually I'll speak first.” Iris asserted herself.

“Oh.” Skye seemed genuinely surprised. “All right then, lets hear it.”

“A twist. 99.7% unexpected.”

“Carry on Iris, we're listening.” Orion told her.

“I have a feeling you all want to talk to me about my decisions in the match. You should know that I went with my heart when I decided which move I'd call when it mattered the most.” Iris spoke and her words made Murphy soar. “It was a personal choice to go with who made me most believe in their point of view, and that was Murphy.” She looked to him and he saw a faint smile on her face, but it was gone in an instant as she continued. “And we won! So it all worked out for the best!”

“So you're saying each of us, knowing you'd be making the moves, tried to influence you before the match?” Skye questioned.

“Whether you tried to influence me, only each of you know for sure.” Iris counterpointed. She lied, and Murphy raised his eyebrow at her. He knew that she knew that he had tried to influence her to use the Thimblerig shuffle, but she didn't tell Skye and Orion that. She was covering for him. “But you each asked to see me, shared a bit of something personal and the move you favored did come up.”

“McNully! Orion! Shame on you!” Skye scolded loudly.

“On us!” Murphy questioned as loudly.

“I do not believe in shame.” Orion stated serenely.

“Well meaning or not, it sounds like we all did the same thing, Skye!” Murphy argued.

“Listen,” Iris quickly interjected holding her arms up like she was trying to calm down wild animals. “I learned something new in talking with each of you, so it wasn't a bad thing!”

“Everyone learns something new after talking with me! I'm full of valuable knowledge.” Murphy tried to lighten the mood but the look Iris gave him clearly stated not now. “That's why I'd wanted to chat, to say thanks for calling the Thimblerig shuffle.” No, he was going to continue because she needed to know how much this meant to him. “Whether you did it for me or not, getting to commentate on my own strategy in my first house match, realizing that all of Hogwarts will know the strategy by name, and know how brilliantly it works, it's got me... Speechless.”

“Well, I'm glad you approve of my decision and that I was actually able to pull it off.” Iris smiled. “I chose the Thimblerig Shuffle because I believe in you, Murphy, and I knew it would mean a lot to you.” There was a gentleness in her voice he wasn't sure he had heard before.

“I'd say the Thimblerig Shuffle had something to do with our house ultimately winning.” He turned towards Skye and Orion as if daring them to argue. But he should have known better, of course they would.

“I should like to think inspired broom surfing would have led to a far greater triumph.”

“Thimblerig shuffle, good luck trying to get that to catch on.” Skye rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. “Now Parkin's Pincer, that move is a classic!”

“Please don't fight!” Iris pleaded, “It was our first Quidditch match! It wasn't my decision to make decisions.”

“So we're in agreement that Orion made this happen?” Skye snarked. Iris looked like she was about ready to blow a gasket.

“I don't think we're in agreement about anything.” Murphy stated.

“I am in agreement with myself and that is all that matters.” Orion announced and they almost all rolled their eyes.

“Agreement with yourself? What does that even MEAN?!” Skye shouted, and for a second Murphy thought she was going to strangle him.

“You know he's going to answer that question with a question, Skye.” Murphy huffed.

“Have you statistics to support that, McNully?” It was the first time Orion had ever seemed to give it back to them.

“You're all unbelievable! I should've known this would happen!” Iris finally shouted, grabbing her head and shook it. “I'm not dealing with it, there is to much drama and I'm done.” Iris stated with an authority that seemed final, she turned and started to walk away and Murphy nearly panicked.

“Stop!” Facepaint kid made all of them nearly jump out of their skin.

“Blimey where did you come from!”

“He's actually a very stealthy eavesdropper.” Iris shouted over her shoulder and explained to Murphy.

“I can eavesdrop no longer! You have to hear me out!” He told them, beckoning for Iris to come back, “Iris was right, it doesn't matter how we won if we won! And you all did great together as a team and thats what matters! You're all heros to Gryffindor and we need heros!”

“Are commentators also heros?”

“Lets say that they are, McNully.” Orion smiled at him.

“See! You're getting along better already!” Facepaint kid smiled brightly.

“Thank you.” Iris told him.

“Well it had to be done! You're all missing quite a party!”

“So, shall we all go together then?” Orion asked.

“We shall, I suppose.” Skye agreed but they could all tell it was a bit bitter.

“I'm in.” Murphy agreed.

“Then lets go.” Iris lead the way.

#hphm #hphm murphy mcnully #hphm jacobs sibling #murphy mcnully #hphm quidditch

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hcurly · 4 years

Text

♡ ��𝚎𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚖𝚎(𝚖𝚎) — 𝚘𝚘𝚌 𝚖𝚎𝚖𝚎.

In which Nikki could not get all three of her muses in one gif and @ariagrans comes through. ( @hollywoodland-hqs )

How long have you been roleplaying?

I feel like I was roleplaying before I even knew what it was. So, 10 years, probably.

What are your hobbies outside of writing?

I am the most boring person ever. Lately I just work, sleep, and play Animal Crossing. I have a horrible attention span for some things, but I do enjoy reading when I have the energy to pick up a new book, watching TV shows (I love Barry and rewatched it a couple times, and have SNL playing a lot) and movies, faves being drama, horror and comedies. I also admittedly watch John Mulaney’s comedy specials far too often, is that a hobby?

Do you have any pets? Tell us about them!

I live with my 5 year old dog Lucy (demon diva pug) and my family’s dog, Misty (wholesome black lab/pit mix pupper who is actually 9). We also have my sister’s ancient rabbit, Oliver, and our even more ancient turtle Speedy living with us.

If you had a month of free time to learn to do something new, what would you choose?

Sadly, I just had this and didn’t do it.. but, if I had a month of free time AND ambition / a will to actually do something, I’d love to relearn guitar and ukelele. I own both and I’m clueless to them now. I also would love to get into photography. Anything creative, I guess!

Do you listen to music while you write? What are three songs on your playlist?

Most of the time! Which is why my replies are probably a mess sometimes, oops. I have playlists for different ships, and am slowly working on muse playlists. Most of the time, though, I just listen to what I feel like at the time. Three random songs I’ve listened to most recently: Falling by Harry Styles, Liability by Lorde, everything i wanted by Billie Eilish. Yes, I’m a sad bitch sometimes.

What’s a favorite recent youtube video/channel?

I love Dylan Is In Trouble and his movie commentaries cheer me up. I also enjoy watching a lil bit of Buzzfeed Unsolved because Shane and Ryan are everything and true crime / the supernatural is interesting to me.

Tell us one random fact about you!

Some people know this already, but my only tattoo is on my forearm and it’s in Harry Styles’ handwriting. It says “all the love” and I got it just over 5 years ago. Dedication to my muse, check.

Who is an FC you’ve always wanted to use but haven’t yet?

Uhhh. I most recently picked up the ones I would’ve answered for this, so. Probably a female FC, but I’m not great at playing them therefore there’s always hesitation. Sophie Turner, perhaps. I also have FCs I’ve played years ago and would adore playing again for nostalgia, but I don’t think I’d get a good grip on them again. I guess that one would go to Brendon Urie.

What’s a plot you’ve always wanted to write but haven’t yet?

MORE ANGSTY STUFF. IDK.

Do you have a favorite plot you’ve seen someone else in the group do?

The Evan/Billie plot had me all whaaaaat. So, maybe that! But I genuinely enjoy seeing everyone’s muses and/or ships blossom, no matter what. ( @evanpeaters, @goodlourd )

Who on the dash makes you smile?

Is it cheating to say literally everyone? I think of this group as a family and am really happy writing with everyone. Some I’ve been writing with forever, and others I just simply love dearly. I’ll tag a few URLs I remember off of the top of my head, but this truly goes for everyone. ( @ariagrans , @ohlizzo , @itsgenevievegnt , @jocklowden , @hqnessa , @diannahq , @larsonhqs )

What is your favorite memory in the group?

I’ve been here since day 1, and seeing this place open and strive to become a safe haven in the RPC has to be the best memory. But from then on, I’ve loved stuff like group trips that allow everyone to interact.

What’s your favorite thing about your celeb(s)?

Harry Styles: I love how kind this man is. He truly has a heart of gold, and I try to showcase that as much as I can through writing him. I’ve stanned my lil Harry for so long, and seeing him become the person that he is makes me happy.

Bill Hader: This guy. I just love him, idk man. I could listen to his dumb laugh on repeat and the talent that he has amazes me. Cliche answer, but my favorite thing about him would be his personality. He can be serious but he also has that silly, funny side everyone loves and I think he’s well rounded and just such a delight. I adore him.

John Mulaney: I really like how open he is, especially with things that he’s struggled with and how he’s overcome them. I know he gives a lot of people hope that whatever they’re going through, it can be possible to come out on the other side. Watching him do stand up gets me out of dark times and I truly love him with my entire heart. One of my favorite people ever.

What’s a plot you miss?

I miss playing Joe and having Jack be savage as hell to him. I just miss playing him so much in general sometimes. #RIPJoe ( @jocklowden )

What would you love to see this group do in the future?

Group events are my favorite, so, stuff like trips, etc, never get old to me. I love having all my muses in one place and having some stuff sprinkled out during the week that they can chat about and get everyone involved. Maybe something like a Hollywood Land yearbook would be fun, a blog of some memories and superlatives that match our muses. To play off what Ina said, completely AU work projects that everyone could be on together sounds fun, like a movie with a random plot with directors, writers, actors, musicians on the soundtrack with a premiere at the end of it. I HAVE NO IDEA? Just... lovely group things that make my heart go whoooosh and make people feel loved and involved.

#( out of styles )#( ooc meme )#( appreciation week )

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sunshineandfangs · 5 years

Text

Klarosummer - Jello Shots || Eizehu chachâm? Eize’hu gibôr?

@klarosummerbingo

This one contains religious themes, see bottom note for my title explanation. However, I am more using the mythology of beings than any type of scripture. Sorta Supernatural-esque I suppose. (But with fewer direct references and hopefully way less convolution and weird plots...) Although, how my mind went from jello shots to this... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Oh uh and a dash of angst, but it’s resolved I promise!

---

Caroline eyed the multiple mixing bowls, each filled with a different colored jello. She flitted between them, making sure each was properly stirred, ignoring the eyes she could feel burning into the back of her head. Her sorority party needed jello-shots after all. What kind of party would it be without them?

“Caroline,” a masculine voice called out from behind her, clear disapproval in his tone.

She feigned obliviousness, measuring out different ratios of water and vodka to make shots of varying potency. Red would be nearly all vodka while violet would just be normal jello. Virgin Violets, she giggled to herself, pleased with her silly alliteration.

“This is suicidal, Caroline,” the voice continued.

She hummed, turning to fetch the small 4 oz cups, only to stop short as Klaus materialized in front of her.

“Cease ignoring me,” he growled.

Huffing, Caroline crossed her arms (hugged herself) as she raised her eyebrows at him. Forced her tone to be normal as she spoke. “Well, then do something useful, Klaus, and help me make these jello shots. Perhaps, then I would have time to chat.”

His scowl deepened in the face of faux-cavalier attitude, and he waved an arm. Instead of mixing bowls, a rainbow of jello-filled plastic cups now stretched across the counter.

She sighed, stance unconsciously softening, fighting the twitch in her lip as she noticed he had organized them all by color.

It was a bit annoying (hurtful) that he had used his power, but what else was she expecting given what she had said? Still, she thanked him. There was no need for poor manners.

He just raised an expectant brow, hands now clasped behind his back. “Our discussion, Caroline?”

Swallowing, she gestured toward the living room and took a seat on the sofa, patting the space next to her in invitation. She leaned back against the arm, bracing herself for what would likely be another diatribe.

It seemed she was right to do so, Klaus right at her heels, angling himself toward her, an intense expression on his face. The last time he had looked at her like that they had been standing, his bloody hands on her arms, bodies at their feet.

Two Years Ago

Heels clicking as she sped walked through the packed streets of Manhattan, Caroline went over her day’s to-do list. Though mostly on autopilot, it was easy for her to move around the crowd, weaving her way to where she needed to be.

Heading up Macdougal St, back toward NYU, her eyes caught on her familiar suited stranger, staring at her from his seat outside one of the many cafés. As always he looked just a tad out of place.

Maybe to everyone else he seemed like a particularly well-dressed businessman, but she knew better. For one thing, he always wore the same suit, from the lightly patterned tie to how he buttoned the jacket. And more importantly, she had been catching glimpses of him and then interacting with him her whole life.

As the Forbes heiress she was used to the occasional bodyguard. They might not be anywhere near the richest people in the world, but they were still easily part of the 1%. That being said normal, human bodyguards aged.

Her mysterious overseer never did.

---

Although to say he just observed her wasn’t quite true either. Her lips quirked remembering the first time he had spoken to her. How he had crouched down beside her at the park, no one else seeming to take notice of his sudden appearance, stating brusquely that she should avoid going home for the next hour. Then, disappeared just as abruptly.

He had delivered several other similar messages until she managed to catch him off guard. Precocious eight-year-old Caroline had been a force with the way she snagged his arm in her grasp and informed him, quite seriously, that humans didn’t interact with one another like he did with her. And maybe he should work on that?

To this day, she wasn’t quite sure why he listened to her, but the next time he showed up with a warning he actually greeted her. An almost fond Hello, Caroline fell from his lips along with some inane commentary about the weather to which she had blinked in bewilderment. He then proceeded to deliver his typical message and, to her astonishment, wished her well before departing.

And over the years, she’d continue to offer him little pieces of advice. (You know smiling wouldn’t break your face? The crazy-eyed stare would be scary to normal people. Why on earth do you always wear the same clothes? (He ignored that one and the next time he showed up she rolled her eyes, commenting he could at least accessorize.) He added a striped pocket-square. (In monochrome though, he was a disaster.))

Mentioned some of her favorites parts of being human. (Determination. Passion. Ambition. People tend to want to do things with their lives, you know? I know I do.)

Even just chatted a little about mundane topics. (Have you ever tried playing soccer? Yeah, me neither. Do you have a favorite season? Time of day? Mine is Autumn if you were wondering; it’s a time of change. I like twilight for the same reason, the bridge between day and night.)

He was almost a friend by that point, for all that she didn’t know his name.

---

And, as if summoned by her thoughts (well, he probably was actually), he appeared beside her, walking in step with her as if he had been there all along.

She rolled her eyes at him. “Don’t you get bored using your powers all the time?”

A minuscule crease appeared between his eyebrows. (Another success she took credit for. He used to be waaaaaay worse at emoting, if one could believe it.) “What else would I use?”

“Gee, you have hands, don’t you?” He actually looked down at them for a split second as if he had forgotten. “And you’re walking beside me right now. When you appear as a human does, sometimes it’s satisfying to accomplish things as they do.”

“Slowly?” He asked, sounding a bit incredulous and disdainful. (More progress! ...Kinda).

“No,” she scolded. “Purposefully.”

He still looked doubtful, but he did walk up to her more often after that. Got up and handed things to her when she asked, rather than just teleporting or conjuring them. Mentioned offhandedly, that his name was Klaus, the next time they met.

She didn’t think that one day she would come to regret her advice.

---

One Week Ago

Caroline looked around, feeling lost. Not the confused kind of lost, but the lost one feels when the beliefs they once held were challenged, broken.

He left her there.

---

This time attackers had slipped by her guardian angel (a hysterical sob caught in her throat), but they hadn’t been able to do much of anything to her. Klaus had appeared with a rustle of feathers, ripping the hearts from the two remaining attackers.

And then he had spotted the bodies already strewn across the floor. They could have been sleeping if not for their vacant stares and still hearts.

God, the way he had looked at her.

Caroline had never personally known heartbreak until that moment.

She had watched as he stalked toward her, gripping her upper arms in his still blood soaked hands.

“What have you done?” He had whispered to her, looking more horrified than she had ever seen. He had shaken her then. “What have you done?!” A shout. She had never heard him shout before. And she hadn’t understood his reaction.

“I-I was never surprised by your abilities. Surely, you knew I had my own?”

“Of course I did!” He had hissed. “But you were never supposed to use them!”

She hadn’t understood. Her voice was small as she had asked him, “Why? You do?”

“I am not like you. You are a cambion, Caroline, a threat. It has always been my duty to contain you. By God, I should smite you where you stand for this.”

A tear had slipped from her eye. “Then why did you-?” Her hand had made an aborted gesture toward the men he had killed, thought about all the years he had spent warning her.

And she had watched as he seemed to deflate and then stepped back from her.

Another crack in her heart.

“If no one attacked you, then what need would you have for your powers?” He had stared at her almost seeming sad as he said, “You were so human.” And then his expression had hardened. “Stay home for the next few days while I take care of the source. Do nothing.” And then he had vanished with another fluttering sound.

---

He left her.

The thought raddled around in her brain, and the contained sob emerged from her throat.

She sat there, in a room of dead and broken people, and cried until she had no tears left.

And then she went home.

Slowly.

---

And now here Klaus was again. Looking at her like he didn’t know her at all. (She supposed she hadn’t know him then either, had she?) Despite her facade she was breaking all over again. She didn’t think she could lose him twice.

And then, he looked away, making the most human gesture she had ever seen from him. His palm dragged down his face, a face that actually appeared tired now that she looked closer.

He looked back at her, reaching for her, hesitant. Finally, he took her hand in his and delicately rubbed the skin over her knuckles.

“You have made me a rash creature, Caroline. I was...afraid,” he uttered, sounding awed. The original meaning of the word. “But I should not have spoken to you like that. Nor left you there. For all my bravado I could not have killed you.” He shook his head. “I do not think I could have from the moment your eight-year-old self took my arm and taught me what it meant to be human.”

“What are you saying?” She whispered, a dangerous kernel of hope blossoming in her heart.

The full force of his gaze returned to her eyes, but there was no disgust or horror there.

“I am saying I want you to come with me. Not forever. Not unless you wish to,” he added in a whisper before continuing, voice firm and determined once more. “I know that no matter your powers you are not the type of threat the Host fears. But others will not. Do not. If you are with me though I can vouch for you. My name holds weight, Caroline. You could live a normal life eventually.”

A tear slipped down her face, but she was smiling.

“You are part of my life now. So don’t you dare leave again.”

He laced his fingers with hers, used his other hand to cup her cheek and brush away her tear.

“Deal.”

---

Author’s Note: Today’s title is the beginning of two different Jewish proverbs/sayings: “Who is wise?” and “Who is mighty?” respectively. The full sayings are “Who is wise? He who learns from all people” and “Who is mighty? He who subdues his passions”. The irony of course being that Klaus typically embodies neither of those things. And even here, it’s pretty debatable. Also, I know at least @thetourguidebarbie is Jewish and would know this better than me so correct me if I’m wrong here. I just went off the internet.

#Klaroline #KlarosummerBingo #Klaroline Fanfiction #Klaroline Drabbles #Klaroline Edits #Klaroline Photosets #Klaroline Aesthetics #My Writing #My Edits

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petalsechoes · 4 years

Text

“Say yikes.”

#{I am just listening in and chatting (dash commentary)}#fashion driven trainer: Mei #[ ofc i am cleaning this blog . ]

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soldierwatch · 5 years

Note

⚡️(for Hanzo or Sojiro :) )

ஃ ➡ send ⚡️ & i’ll tell you… // @simple-geometry

my first impression of your muse :

hanzo - i was captivated by the tattoo on his arm, tbh, lmfao. hanzo was one of the VERY FIRST overwatch characters i learned of, if not THE first. i thought his design was cool, his abilities bombin’, but—then i learned he’s kind of a prick. …and tbh that only made me love him MORE. i’m nowhere near eloquent tonight, you’ll have to forgive me ; but my first impression of hanzo was that he was cool, & it only got BETTER the more i discovered of him.

sojiro - if i’m being entirely honest with you, i don’t recall what i first thought when i heard about sojiro. …i think it was that i thought he was fake, & not actually their dad—not because i didn’t think they HAD a dad, but because i thought blizzard wouldn’t reveal something like that.once i realized the truth, it was a little difficult to give much thought towards him, considering how little INFORMATION we have on the man ; but i think any man who condones one of his children killing another is a DICK, ‘clan honor’ or not.

my first impression of you :

h o n e s t l y i really admired you for a while before our first interaction,& for that i was always too shy to approach—so i’m really glad you were the first to drop somethin’ in my activity feed. :’P from there my impression of you only grew better - you’re a joy to chat & plot with, & the IC interactions we’ve had have all been some of my favorites to reply to. c;

my favorite thing about your muse :

hanzo - that one voiceline of his, ‘i choose you, spirit dragon.’

sojiro - okay, specifically regarding YOUR interpretation of him, just how much you have DEVELOPED for sojiro. like, we literally get next to NOTHING aside form his name, & you’ve taken the little we know & made it into a whole thought-out character with REASONING & INTENTION & DEPTH. i will always respect writers who can take so little & make it into something so intriguing.

my favorite thing about you :

what’s ? not to love ?? you’re fun, engaging, talented ; i get really glad any time i see your URL(s) come up on my dash. ;w;

would I ever consider shipping our muses :

hanzo - given the zero interactions we have between hanzo & jack, i never considered it—but like all ships, it could be fun to develop if done so properly & i, personally, am always interested in discovering new ways to mesh muses together. c:

sojiro - my interpretation of jack is more interested than bringing sojiro to justice than bringing him home to meet the parents ; that said, that one thread we threw together ? i do believe jack would drop fairly suggestive commentary here & there, but that’s more due to the fact that my young jack is a mouthy brat who uses any & all methods to get his job done.

a plot I’d like to see between our muses :

hanzo - literally anything ,, but - as most others seem to be - i’m interested in jack back @ overwatch, not necessarily working FOR them, but working WITH them ; bring hanzo into the mix somehow for a viable reason, let them get sent on a mission together, and just—let them bond or w/e lmfao.

sojiro - listen i like what we had, where the two were creeping around the real topic with not-so-subtle comments & quips ; i’m just sittin’ here with popcorn hopin’ for a fight. ;0

#simplegeometry #ஃ ➡ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉˢᵉ ʲᵒᵏᵉʳˢ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵐʸ ᵖᵒᶤᶰᵗ ( answers )

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posterclever974 · 3 years

Text

X Mplayer2 Download

Freeware

Feb 13, 2014 mplayer2 is a command-line video player that was developed from the initial MPlayer, providing you with the original functions and more, along with various improvements of. Hi, what a long absence, I'm still alive, MPlayerX too. Now I'm planning some, relatively, big feature into MPlayerX for the next major release. It may cost some time. Before doing it, I thought I'd better release once. So actually 1.0.1 isn't a exciting release, just a little step forward. MPlayerX is armed by FFmpeg and MPlayer, which means it could handle any media format in the world without extra plug-ins or codec packages. Dance on your fingers. Pinch, tap or swipe, MPlayerX provides you the easiest way to control the playback. Click to download the Control Script for Sofa. Dec 13, 2018 Download MPlayer. MPlayer is a movie player which runs on many systems. Login Social Sharing. Tech news in your inbox. Get TechSpot's weekly newsletter Facebook.

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46.0 MB

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Aug 28, 2019 Bandwidth Analyzer Pack analyzes hop-by-hop performance on-premise, in hybrid networks, and in the cloud, and can help identify excessive bandwidth utilization or unexpected application traffic. Download a free trial for real-time bandwidth monitoring, alerting, and more. NOTE: The MPlayer App is optimised for iOS 7 or later.Download the MPlayer App free of charge before your next Monarch flight to enjoy our exciting.

It plays most MPEG/VOB, AVI, Ogg/OGM, VIVO, ASF/WMA/WMV, QT/MOV/MP4, RealMedia, Matroska, NUT, NuppelVideo, FLI, YUV4MPEG, FILM, RoQ, PVA files, supported by many native, XAnim, and Win32 DLL codecs. You can watch VideoCD, SVCD, DVD, 3ivx, DivX 3/4/5, WMV and even H.264 movies.

Another great feature of MPlayer is the wide range of supported output drivers. It works with X11, Xv, DGA, OpenGL, SVGAlib, fbdev, AAlib, DirectFB, but you can use GGI, SDL (and this way all their drivers), VESA (on every VESA compatible card, even without X11!) and some low level card-specific drivers (for Matrox, 3Dfx and ATI), too! Most of them support software or hardware scaling, so you can enjoy movies in fullscreen. MPlayer supports displaying through some hardware MPEG decoder boards, such as the Siemens DVB, DXR2 and DXR3/Hollywood+.

MPlayer has an onscreen display (OSD) for status information, nice big antialiased shaded subtitles and visual feedback for keyboard controls. European/ISO 8859-1,2 (Hungarian, English, Czech, etc), Cyrillic and Korean fonts are supported along with 12 subtitle formats (MicroDVD, SubRip, OGM, SubViewer, Sami, VPlayer, RT, SSA, AQTitle, JACOsub, PJS and our own: MPsub). DVD subtitles (SPU streams, VOBsub and Closed Captions) are supported as well.

What's New:

After a long pause, we decided that it might be a good idea to make a new release. While we had our fun with the naming scheme with lots of 'pre' and 'rc' it seemed time to move on and with everyone incrementing major versions between weekly and monthly we hope to be forgiven for jumping ahead to 1.1.

This release is intended to be compatible with the recent FFmpeg 0.11 release. We hope it will be useful to distros and other users relying on FFmpeg 0.11. Everyone else is encouraged to follow Subversion HEAD to always get the latest features and bug fixes. You might still want to read the release announcement to get a short summary of any bigger changes and improvements.

Mplayer For Windows 7

Among the bigger news is that we found a maintainer for the X11 gmplayer GUI, so those holding out on it against our earlier recommendations will get a lot of bug fixes.

There is also support for more subtitle types (Bluray, DVB, DVB closed-caption for example), many improvements to -vo gl including output of 10 bit video, very basic but usable OpenGL ES support and much better SDL support which makes it a usable choice on OSX (particularly on older PowerPC variants much faster than corevideo or quartz). MPlayer will now also try much harder to handle intermittent network failures, for example trying to reconnect.

As part of the code cleanup efforts, the internal libfaad2 copy has been removed since the FFmpeg decoder is working well. Also the internal mp3lib copy is no longer used by default since the many alternatives (FFmpeg, libmpg123, libmad) avoid its recurring issues like incorrect decoding with newer compilers. However it can still be forced at runtime for easier tracking of regressions. Please do not rely on this since it will be removed in the future. If you do not actually need it consider disabling it at compile time with --disable-mp3lib.

As a first for this release, the tarballs are available in two variants: compressed with xz and compressed with gzip. Please get the xz variant if you can to save bandwidth, the gzip version is for everyone that cannot use it. Should you never have encountered xz compressed files, newer versions of tar can uncompress it via 'tar xJf MPlayer-1.1.tar.xz'.

What's New:

Upgraded gcc to 7.3, enabled lto in FFMpeg

Enabled dash demuxer in FFMpeg

Enabled libopenmpt in FFMpeg

Updated gnutls to 3.5.18

Updated libvpx (git)

Updated openh264 (git)

Updated kvazaar (git)

Updated x265 (hg)

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iTunes is a free application for Mac and PC. It plays all your digital music and video. It syncs content to your iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV.

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Freeware media player that supports many features for advanced users who desire to watch video files at the best quality.

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Application/x-mplayer2 Chrome Download

thx

I needed a simple command-ling media player, and this was perfect! Extremely lightweight and very versatile. I use it for some custom clip management and window capture for streamers to use when broadcasting using the OBS Studio streaming/broadcasting software on Twitch. I take chat commands that create a text semaphore/trigger file, and when the script sees the trigger, it uses this Mplayer utility to play. I am just doing this for fun, and to help streamers offer a little something extra. if a streamer wants to rotate 8 different 'Hug' clips when a viewer runs the '!hug @somename' command in chat, there should be a utility that can launch the clips when the commands are run, then rotate the clips so if 4 or 5 people use the 'Hug' command to hug each other, it doesn't just play the same clip over and over. The fact that you can title the player window allows a streamer to have a few different windows captures set up. Maybe 1 for fullscreen clips with a chromakey filter, a regular fullscreen clip fo speciual event clips, and maybe ones for subscriber 'intro clips' they use when they join chat to announce their presence in style. Maybe another for 'accent clips/memes', so users can add commentary by launching clips at proper moments, like a '!rip' command that plays a rotation of funny 'I'm dead' clips when the streamer dies playing a game. The streamer just ads these 3 or 4 window capture sources to each scene they want clips to be available, then the script/utility launches each clip with the appropriate window title to have it play at the right size and location. I'd love to see someone actualy do this properly. I have it all working. I just needed a 'lighter' player that was flexible enough to support all the different clip types. I was using VLC Media Player, but it did noy play smoothly, often hitching/lagging for a split second when launching clips, making it seems rough and 'unfinished'. This gives a smooth and polished feel when playing the clips.

This is awesome. No more need to fire-up some heavy graphical user interface just to listen to audio streams! (Sorry I couldn't do this, due to a complete lack of free time here!) The only thing lacking, instructions how to install mplayer.exe and instructions concerning how to use with Cygwin. Basically, the mplayer.exe goes within your $PATH. I'm not sure where the other sub-folders should reside, but I simply created a symbolic link using Cygwin for my usage here. (ie. See below Cygwin Instructions) Initial execution of mplayer.exe seemed to search all of Windows fonts. Successive exections of mplayer.exe appeared to forgo the font searching, resulting in the usual quick start of the program. For cygwin users: 1) Unpackage the mplayer package to a folder. 2) Start cygwin and make sure you have a local bin folder (ie. /home/user/bin) within your path. If not, create the folder and modify your local $PATH to include your /home/user/bin folder, replacing the 'user' with your user name. 3) Type 'ln -s /place/where/you/unpackaged/mplayer/mplayer.exe /home/user/bin/' 4) If you prefer using .exe' command suffixes or are required to, and you have 'mplayer' aliases within you Linux bashrc and are copying the Linux bashrc over to Windows' Cygwin, then open the bashrc file within vim and type ':%s/mplayer /mplayer.exe /gc' without quotes. The command will aide in replacing the 'mplayer ' with 'mplayer.exe '. Most Cygwin users can skip this as Cygwin seems to recognize commands without the '.exe' suffix!

Nice work ! Version 37051 has not any more WMV bug. Really nice Job ! Don't stop working on mplayer, i use it everyday for a project i'll publish soon... Thanks again ;)

Application X-mplayer2 Downloads

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rosesnvines · 7 years

Text

They Will Not Reject Him

Since Keith insists . . . here, a group of people who will never reject you, having been rejected themselves (sorta).

Keith wandered the halls of the great building, the chatter of the ongoing event echoing over the P.A. system. The soccer game was still going on, as evident by the commentary of the two radio DJ’s. Well, so they were called by the rest of the island. It was primarily Ishida Yamato and Yagami Taichi, but since Taichi was the soccer captain, the commentators were Kazama Hiroto and Hiwatari Seiji. Hiroto was obviously having a bunch of fun commenting, Seiji was primarily laughing. He was laughing at that moment while Hiroto was exclaiming about a move someone made on the field. Keith didn’t know everybody yet, nor did he want to. He was still afraid of being rejected. Though, he did have to admit, not a single person he had met thus far seemed that concerned that he was part Galra or anything. But, then again, they hadn’t had to deal with Galra oppression, so it wouldn’t register in their minds that he shouldn’t be trusted. Once the others started talking about the Galra Empire, they would, they really would reject him. He paused when he turned the corner, there was a group of boys standing in the middle of the hall, one of whom was Yamato. The others were Jack Frost, Kinimoto Syaoran, Nico di Angelo, Hyuuga Natsume, Adrien Agreste, and Kujou Kazune.

Keith let out a sigh. “What do you want?” He glared at Nico, who merely glared back. He knew the demigod had shadow-traveled the group to that point and had been waiting for him. Maybe they didn’t think they needed to fear Keith because of Nico? Ridiculous, he could take him out, son of Hades or not.

“Listen, we want to help you,” began Syaoran.

“So spill it, though Nico’s probably said the same things already,” quipped Jack.

Nico growled. “Shut up.”

“I think we all have said one thing or another that’s similar,” stated Yamato. “Point is, we know you’re hurting, we’ve been hurt too. Let us help you get through the pain.”

“Why would you do that?”

“It’s what friends do,” replied Yamato. Keith glanced down, did he dare hope?

“Why don’t we start off with, when’s your birthday?”

Keith glanced at Jack in surprise. “Why do you need to know that? I thought the island got all that information when I entered.”

“Yeah, but it’s not like it just hands out that information, either,” quipped Kazune as he crossed his arms.

“Wait, it, it didn’t tell you?” asked Keith incredulously.

Syaoran shook his head. “No, I’ve told it not to tell me anything about anybody, I want you to trust me enough to tell me yourself.”

“Oh, so, it didn’t tell you that I was Chat Noir?” asked Adrien.

Kazune scoffed. “It didn’t need to, you made it way too easy to figure out.” Adrien grinned and chuckled nervously as he scratched the back of his head. Natsume and Kazune both rolled their eyes and groaned. Keith turned to leave when Nico spoke up, making him pause.

“So, you don’t trust us, do you?” Keith paused and glanced over his shoulder at them. He thought for a second, should he tell them his fears? “No, you just don’t trust us to want to be your friends. You’re scared that we would not like you after we got to know you.” Keith glanced at him, almost startled. How?

“Or you’re afraid that no one will ever care for you as you truly are,” piped up Adrien.

“Or they’re afraid of your power,” mentioned Natsume as a small flame ignited in his hand before glancing between Adrien and Nico.

“I guess I am the only one with the fear of not being believed in, which means no one can see me.” Jack paused for second before taking a breath. “But I guess I don’t have to worry about that anymore, Peter will always be able to see me.” Keith knew that, of the three Peters he knew of on Antillia, Jack was talking about Peter Pan. “And Nico has no choice,” he continued with a grin.

“Oooh, yay, lucky me,” Nico quipped sarcastically. The others laughed.

“Hey, don’t worry Jack, I’ll always believe in you. I want to, I wouldn’t have as much fun otherwise,” stated Adrien and he walked towards Jack.

“Awesome, thanks man!” said Jack as they gave each other a high-five.

Syaoran turned back to Keith. “Point is, we’ve all had our share of trouble and sorrow. We might not completely understand what you’re going through, but we understand pain, and we can help you get through it.” Keith glanced down, should he? Should he take that risk? Make that leap of faith and hope he finds solid ground?

“I know it’s hard to trust people when you’ve been hurt so deep that you don’t know if you could ever heal from it.” Keith glanced up at Yamato. “But not everybody is like that. Not everybody is going to hurt you. Yes, you’re going to come across quite a few people who will hurt you, but there are many more who, if you give them a chance, they will care for you until the end of time. Get a new family to replace the broken one you came from.” Natsume nodded at the last sentence, followed not too long by a nod from Nico.

Keith let out a sigh. “Listen, I just don’t belong . . .”

“Nico said that too, and that he was going to leave. Now look at him, as snug as a bug in a rug,” quipped Jack.

“Don’t you mean like a puzzle piece?” asked Keith with a grumble.

“Is that what’s concerning you, Matthew’s analogy that Antillia is one big puzzle and we’re all its pieces?” asked Syaoran incredulously.

“It’s better than being compared to a chess set,” quipped Nico.

“Yeah, at least in a puzzle, we’re equally important to completing the big picture,” pointed out Adrien.

“And in a puzzle, it means that we each fit together just perfectly,” continued Yamato. “Wouldn’t you like that, knowing that you fit?” Keith glanced at each of them in turn before turning around. They wouldn’t understand, not one bit. He heard a groan from Nico before he saw him stepping out of the shadows in front of him. Keith clenched his teeth, if he did anything.

“Jack, use your powers.”

“Oh man, if Nico di Angelo is telling me to use my powers, it’s bad,” quipped Jack. Keith could feel the air behind him getting colder. He took a step forward, but Nico stopped him by grabbing him by the arms and spinning him around. Just in time for Keith to get a snowball square in his face. Keith didn’t know how, but he could just feel the joy bubbling up from the depths of his heart, and burst out laughing. “Snowball fight!” exclaimed Jack as he threw a snowball at Nico and then Adrien. Adrien ducked, and it hit Kazune.

“Jack! OK, that does it!” Kazune rolled up his sleeves, bent down, grabbed some snow, quickly shaped it into a ball, and threw it. Jack quickly moved to the side, and the snowball hit the back of Natsume’s head. Natsume glanced at Syaoran.

Syaoran chuckled. “Alright, yes, snowball fight!” At that, everyone dove into the snow to make balls, and in the next instant, snowballs were flying. Some hit their target, others missed by a long shot.

“Adrien, stop moving around!”

“I can’t help it if my cat-like skills keep me from getting wet. Oof!” Adrien got hit with a snowball that made him fall backwards.

“Nice shot, Yamato!”

“Thank you. Hey! No fair, Nico!” Nico laughed before dashing off, getting chased by Yamato.

“Natsume, I said snowball fight, not fireball fight!”

“Yeah, you need to . . . chill!”

“Jack!”

“Hey! Oh, you were trying to be sneaky, eh, Keith?”

“Maybe.”

“And, here’s one from me.”

“Nice shot, Kazune!”

“Why thank you.”

“Hey! Adrien!”

“Catch me if you can, Syaoran!”

“Oh, you’re on!” The snowball fight lasted for a few more minutes amid shouts and laughter, before everyone paused as a howl reached their ears.

Keith glanced around. “What the? Yamato!” Yamato turned, just in time to have a wolf pin him to the ground, and start licking his face.

“Toboe! OK, OK, knock it off!! Came to join the fun?” Yamato asked as he petted the wolf.

“I wish, but, Makoto-kun sent me to tell you that he made a new dessert he wants you to try.”

“Ooh! Dessert!” exclaimed Jack and Adrien.

“Don’t you care about your teeth?” asked Nico.

“I always brush mine, it’s the model in me,” quipped Adrien with a smirk.

“And mine always sparkles like freshly fallen snow, and since I’m technically already dead, I can’t rot anymore,” quipped Jack with a grin before the two disappeared around the corner.

“Coming!” Toboe let out a bark and led the way back to the kitchen.

Keith walked over to Syaoran as the others followed, leaving the two alone in the hall. “So. he’s another piece of the puzzle?”

Syaoran laughed. “Everyone here is, even you. If you want it, that is. We’re not going to force you to stay, but we will try to make it as hard as possible for you to leave. It’s great here.”

Keith glanced at him curiously as he followed Syaoran to the kitchen. “So, all of you have been hurt?”

Syaoran’s mouth twitched, but a soft smile stayed on his face as the sorrow seemed to grow in his eyes. “Yes, in different ways.” He paused and let out a sad sigh before walking again, more slowly this time. He seemed to bend over a bit, like the knowledge of so much sorrow weighed on him. “You have no idea the extent of some of that pain. Nico? He’s been through a lot, especially for a kid his age. Frodo? Not much different, even though he does wish he could give Nico the childhood he had, at least. Kira? War really took its toll on him, he has such a kind heart. Jack? Well, after three hundred years of loneliness, I’m not surprised he can keep a smile on his face, he’s so overjoyed at how many people can see him now. Some have lost family, parents, a sibling, some have been unable to make many friends, yet others are feared because of what they can do. Some were even exploited because of their powers. Everyone has a sob story. And, I’m not saying that because of all of these sob stories that they make yours any less tragic. I’m just trying to say that, you’re not alone. Somebody, somewhere, even if it’s not on Antillia, has experienced what you’ve experienced and has felt the same pain. How they react to it will be different than your reaction because they are not you. So, some will hide their pain with a smile, or have it out there with scowl.” He paused again, they were now outside the kitchen doors. He turned and placed a hand on Keith’s shoulder. “Listen, I understand that you’re set on your decision, but I beg you, please give us a chance. Get to know some of the people here. These things take time. Give me a time-frame and if you’re not satisfied with the results at the end, then you are most certainly free to go. But, I’m willing to bet that, if you open up to some of the people here, you’ll find that you are home. And I can direct you to a few people who thought the same as you, and ended up staying.”

“Like Nico?”

Syaoran smiled and nodded. “Yes, like Nico. And I’m glad he’s here. I know Kazune especially is glad he’s here. You have no idea how many times I’ve had to break up a game of Mythomagic to get their attention for something.”

“Right. So, what’s your story?”

Syaoran’s eyes widened before a sad smile appeared. “I, I don’t know if I should tell you that yet. You might, you might wonder how a monster like myself became the king of Antillia.”

Keith’s eyes widened. “But, but you can’t be a monster! You’re such a better leader than I ever could!”

Syaoran laughed, the sorrow melting away. “Oh yes, I thought that I wasn’t capable of leading these fine people, but, Matthew just likes to keep proving himself right. And, out of everyone, I think . . . I think he’s not ready to tell his story.”

“Nope, just waiting for everyone to get here so I can just tell it all at once.” The two jumped as a red-haired teen joined them. “Do you have any idea how annoying it is to have to repeat yourself over and over again?”

“Which is funny because you like to repeat yourself, over and over again,” quipped the older, brunette as he too joined them.

“That all depends on what I’m talking about, Steven. My story? Boring!”

“What? Your story’s boring? But you’ve been all over the place!” exclaimed Syaoran.

Matthew grinned. “That I have. But, trying to blend into the local life isn’t as easy as it looks, trust me. So, are you two going to get in there and taste Makoto’s new dessert, or are you going to let Jack and Adrien eat all of it?”

Syaoran chuckled. “Oh, alright. Let’s go. Their desserts can get surprising, but it’s always good.”

Keith grinned. “Oh, I don’t know, Hunk’s kinda spoiled us.”

“Guess we’ll just have to do a cooking contest, huh?” asked Syaoran with a wink as he opened the doors. Keith, Matthew, and Steven followed him in, and paused.

“Um, where is everybody?” asked Keith as Matthew and Steven joined Syaoran. The three turned around and all shot him mischievous grins.

“Uh, guys?” shouted Matthew. That’s when everyone jumped out from behind doors and under tables, shouting, “Surprise! Happy birthday, Keith!” Makoto and Hunk came out with a big birthday cake, decorated with red and purple lions and sprinkles on white icing.

Keith glanced at Syaoran. “But, but you said . . .”

“The island didn’t tell me.”

“No, that was me,” stated Shiro as he approached Keith. “Happy birthday, little brother,” he said with a smile. The two hugged.

“Th-thanks, Shiro. Did, did you plan all of this?”

“Actually, you can thank our head resident genie for that. Matthew thought that, since you were feeling so down in the dumps, throwing a birthday party to show how much we all appreciate you was a good idea to bring up your spirits,” said Nico.

“Hey, it worked for you, figured it would work for him too,” stated Matthew.

“And Jack was his second-in-command,” quipped Kazune as he pointed at the grinning sprite.

“We had some help from Coran, too,” stated Jack.

“Thank you, everybody, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

Syaoran chuckled. “Told you we’d make it hard for you to want to leave.” Keith smiled at him before everyone else came forward to wish him happy birthday. The party became a smashing hit, everyone had a blast. And as Keith slowly drifted off to sleep later that night, he had to admit, they were doing a good job at making him feel at home. Maybe he would take Syaoran up on his challenge, but he figured they had won already. He wanted to stay.

#keith #voltron #keith's birthday #antillia #crossover #big time crossover #digimon adventure #heroes of olympus #Rise of the Guardians #tsubasa chronicles #miraculous ladybug #gakuen alice #kirarin revolution #kamichama karin #wolf's rain #happy birthday keith

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unknowncountrygirl · 4 years

Text

Start of Something New

Murphy McNully x MC (My MC is Iris Rosewood)

Please enjoy my first leap into the fanfiction world. I took the actual dialogue and added my own takes between the lines.

Murphy McNully arranged his wizard chess set on the Gryffindor table, waiting for Iris to join him. He had invited her to chat before her first match against Hufflepuff with the intent to sell her on using the Thimblerig Shuffle. He hoped she would see reason with using strategy rather then brute force or taking a more lackadaisical approach.

He was so focused on arranging his chess pieces that he failed to see Iris approach and take a seat across from him at the table.

“You know,” she said sitting down across from him. “I don't know if I can keep my mind of wizard chess with the first Quidditch match today.” She had her long silvery blonde waves already twisted back into a french braid, and was bobbing her knee nervously.

“That's exactly why I invited you to play! So I can crush you at chess while your mind is elsewhere.”

“Murphy!” She said in a shocked tone, but smiled nonetheless.

“Do you think my inviting you here is all a ploy?” He asked, almost fearing her answer.

“Absolutely I do.” Iris stated quickly. He had to admit, the fact that she felt he was only using her rather hurt.

“Well I can be your friend and still be actively strategizing at the same time.” He stated back, hoping she would understand that he was truly her friend and not just manipulating her.

“So you are?” She said with an air of mild intrigue.

“Orion never has a 'whole plan' He goes with whatever strikes him in the moment. Sometimes it's a stray bludger.”

“You're not helping.” Her voice was low as she rubbed her forehead.

“Don't fret. There's less than 1.3% chance that Hufflepuff will know what role you'll be playing.” He added quickly.

“Yeah, but, there's still a lot of pressure on me, considering this is my first match.”

----------------------------

“Checkmate.” Murphy said as he placed the piece down.

“Again?” Iris exclaimed, looking down at the board. “You're impossible to beat!”

“Well, it's easier for you to handle, you never seem nervous.” Iris admitted, reaching over to grab a glass of water and sipped it.

“Really?” He smiled ruefully and shook his head, “well, that's impressive, given I'm nervous about 43.4% of the time.” He opened himself up to her, and it was the first time he had really spoken about his insecurities to anyone, but he was going to continue. Iris, from all their interactions, gave him the impression that she was someone he could trust and someone that he could rely on.

“43.4%? Really?” Iris's eyes widened at this knew knowledge.

“Idea's like the Thimblerig Shuffle.” Iris nodded, her voice low and even.

Iris smiled at him and nodded.

“You've given me a lot to think about Murphy.”

“When will you realize I'm your best mate and you should just start calling me McNully.”

“Maybe when you realize that's the reason I call you Murphy instead,” she winked at him and smiled brightly before standing up. “Or perhaps when I finally beat you at chess.” She added, placing her hands on her hips.

“So, never then?”

“Haha.” She grabbed a sandwich from a close by platter, “thank you, for your advice, Murphy. I really appreciate it, but I have to go down and get ready.”

“I need to prep too. I'll see you in the sky, Iris.”

“Big day fer the both o' yeh, first house match of the year, Sorry the interrup' yer game o' chess.”

“Oh don't worry Hagrid, we were finished.” Iris assured him.

“I've finished winning, is what Iris meant to say.” He and Iris exchanged glances and she just shook her head. “Have you come to wish us luck, Hagrid?”

“'Course. But I got a message for Iris, too. Professor McGonagall wants to see yeh'.”

“Oh. Is it something serious?”

“Yeh know how she is about Quidditch.”

“I have faith in you.”

“Really? Not going to rattle off a percentage?”

“Well I don't believe in absolutes, but it's close to 100.”

She smiled and pulled her hand off his shoulder before heading to the grand doors that lead out of the dining hall.

Murphy watched her retreating figure until she was out of sight. He had seen her mainly in her Quidditch uniforms and in her school robes, but he hadn't seen her in her casual wear. She was short, but Iris had a nice figure, and her bum was exceptionally nice to watch as she walked.

“You've been spending a lot of time wit Iris.” A boy a little further down the table spoke to him.

“Yeah, been trying to give her some strategies for Quidditch, she's got a ton of natural talent and I'd like to see her apply herself.” Murphy admitted as he started packing up his chess set.

“Well consider yourself lucky, she's normally to busy with the Weasley's, Lee and Copper. There's a bunch of us that would like some one on one time with her.”

“Yeah, well,” he replied. “The one on one time you're referring to is not something she would be interested in.” He knew that the other student was referring to a more romantic sort of one on one time. Iris was lovely, no one could deny that, even if they thought she was mad for looking for the cursed vaults. She had beautiful silvery, white, blonde hair that hung in loose waves that only made her round, icy blue eyes pop even more, with eyelashes that whisped almost to her eyebrows. Her skin was smooth and blemish free with a little round nose that fit her round face perfectly. And then her lips- Murphy shook his head, he had lost himself a few times, rattled on about many things because he was starring at her plump pink lips. He knew she wore a cherry flavored lip something because he had smelt it before when they were talking. She would occasionally pull it out and apply it and the sweet smell would flood his senses and he would wonder what the percentage would be if he tried to kiss her, if she would reciprocate or reject him.

He would bet the higher percentage on rejection.

“Oh come on, you are spending more time with her then most people these days, you can't tell me there's not something going on.” The other Gryffindor replied.

“There's not.” Murphy slammed his chess set case closed harder then he intended and it seemed to startle the other into silence. It's a painful thought, and as he gets ready to go he dodges as many feet as he can.

He had learned to expect peoples judgement before they had even spotted him rolling around at crotch level. Humanity's prejudice has induced his own prejudice against them. It's a sick kind of poetic justice, but not the deep, introspective kind. It's more like annoying slam poetry in Murphy's brain.

----------------------------

Shortly before the match was set to start, Murphy was in the Quidditch tent listening to Orion give his pre game speech. Iris sat on the end of the bench, and was leaning over slightly, her elbow resting on the arm of his chair, looking rather bored and glassy eyed.

“I thought I was a talker.” Murphy whispered to Iris.

“I've never heard him talk in non riddles before, it's kind of refreshing.” She whispered back. Her hand was curled into a loose fist, and Murphy calculated that he had a 45.6% chance that if he just lifted his own hands off his lap, and let his fingers-

----------------------------

Murphy watched awestruck as Iris owned the pitch. She was practically unstoppable, from stealing quaffles to scoring on a keeper. Regardless, the game was exceptionally close.

----------------------------

His chair was rolling as fast as he could get it. He was almost to the tent when he heard Iris's voice.

“240 points to 110! Gryffindor comes through with a big win!”

“Welcome, McNully. We were just in the middle of something-” Orion began but was quickly cut off by Skye.

“It shall have to wait because I, too, need to speak with Iris.” Orion stated.

“Get in the queue! Needing a chat with Iris is why I'm here.” Murphy interjected quickly. He had to talk to Iris, for many reasons, Orion and Skye would have to wait.

“So... Each of you need to talk to me?” Right now?” Iris questioned, looking like a deer in the headlights. If he could get them all to talk to Iris, about the game, then he could possibly get to chat with her alone about perhaps the meaning behind why she chose the Thimblerig Shuffle. There was a flicker of hope in his chest that perhaps, yes it was the best option, that she chose it because she had a sweet spot for him, a sweet spot that could be romantic.

“Suppose we chat all together then? Let's head to the pitch!” The sooner the better.

“Fine, but I need to change first.” Iris stated, grabbed her bag and exited the tent. She seemed a bit put off, and he hoped that he hadn't angered her. He quickly left with Orion and Skye to wait for Iris on the pitch.

----------------------------

Iris was barely on the pitch before Murphy blurted out,

“I'll say my piece first.”

“Should not the Captain lead this chat?” Orion questioned.

“Rubbish! I said I wanted to talk to Iris before either of you did.” Skye stated in her typical confident outspoken voice. Doubt it, Murphy thought, and actually about stated.

“Actually I'll speak first.” Iris asserted herself.

“Oh.” Skye seemed genuinely surprised. “All right then, lets hear it.”

“A twist. 99.7% unexpected.”

“Carry on Iris, we're listening.” Orion told her.

“So you're saying each of us, knowing you'd be making the moves, tried to influence you before the match?” Skye questioned.

“Whether you tried to influence me, only each of you know for sure.” Iris counterpointed. “But you each asked to see me, shared a bit of something personal and the move you favored did come up.”

“McNully! Orion! Shame on you!” Skye scolded loudly.

“On us!” Murphy questioned as loudly.

“I do not believe in shame.” Orion stated serenely.

“Well meaning or not, it sounds like we all did the same thing, Skye!” Murphy argued.

“Listen,” Iris quickly interjected holding her arms up like she was trying to calm down wild animals. “I learned something new in talking with each of you, so it wasn't a bad thing!”

“I should like to think inspired broom surfing would have led to a far greater triumph.”

“Thimblerig shuffle, good luck trying to get that to catch on.” Skye rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. “Now Parkin's Pincer, that move is a classic!”

“Please don't fight!” Iris pleaded, “It was our first Quiddicth match! It wasn't my decision to make decisions.”

“So we're in agreement that Orion made this happen?” Skye snarked. Iris looked like she was about ready to blow a gasget.

“I don't think we're in agreement about anything.” Murphy stated.

“I am in agreement with myself and that is all that matters.” Orion announced and they almost all rolled their eyes.

“Agreement with yourself? What does that even MEAN?!” Skye shouted, and for a second Murphy thought she was going to strangle him.

“You know he's going to answer that question with a question, Skye.” Murphy huffed.

“Have you statistics to support that, McNully?” It was the first time Orion had ever seemed to give it back to them.

“You're all unbelievable! I should've known this would happen!” Iris finally shouted, grabbing her head and shook it.

“Stop!” Facepaint kid made all of them nearly jump out of their skin.

“Blimey where did you come from!”

“He's actually a very stealthy eavesdropper.” Iris leaned over and explained to Murphy.

“I can eavesdrop no longer! You have to hear me out!” He told them, “Iris was right, it doesn't matter how we won if we won! And you all did great together as a team and thats what matters! You're all heros to Gryffindor and we need heros!”

“Are commentators also heros?”

“Lets say that they are, McNully.” Orion smiled at him. He felt Iris place her hand on his shoulder,

“I say so too.” She smiled.

“See! You're getting along better already!” Facepaint kid smiled brightly.

“Thank you.” Iris told him.

“Well it had to be done! You're all missing quite a party!”

“So, shall we all go together then?” Orion asked.

“We shall, I suppose.” Skye agreed but they could all tell it was a bit bitter.

“I'm in.” Murphy agreed.

“Then lets go.” Iris lead the way.

----------------------------

At the celebration party, Murphy spotted Iris from across the room, chatting with Rowan by the fireplace. He supposed it was as good of a time as any to approach her and see if he could get her to himself for a bit.

“Iris, do you think we can get a moment to talk?” He blurted, “out in the courtyard perhaps?”

Rowan and Iris exchanged glances and Iris told her friend that she would see her later, and motioned for Murphy to lead her out of the hall.

He wheeled in front of her and he could feel eyes on him as he and Iris left the hall, she stepped up beside him and walked in pace with him.

“Something on your mind?” She asked before they were even to the courtyard.

“You surprised me today, and I have to say I was flattered. I knew the Thimblerig Shuffle would be the best, but to see it executed, and executed perfectly, was more then I could have asked.”

“Well, like I said, the Thimblerig Shuffle was the best option, besides,” she leaned over slightly and bumped his elbow, “you pulled on my heart strings and I followed my heart. While Skye and Orion's reasons were valid, they didn't speak to me here.” She patted her chest.

He felt pride well in his chest. Iris was a kind hearted girl, but had a fire in her that he admired more then most people he knew. She had his respect and his admiration, pair that with her Quidditch skills and her looks, she was the entire package, and he knew if he wasn't careful he would fall hard.

Truthfully, he was already falling hard.

But he was worried if anything did come about romantically, what others would say. He knew he could take it, he had dealt with it most of his life, but he wondered what hurtful words would be spoken to Iris. He wondered how she would handle them, if it would start to twist the way she saw him.

Would people see her as his carer? Or worse, would she see him as someone that needed cared for, like some sort of pet, not as a boyfriend to fall in love with and have a future with. Would people see a relationship when they saw them out and about, or would people think she was some paid nurse to wipe his bum and spoon feed him like he was some sort of vegetable. It's an idea so deeply burned into the brains of society that no one thinks twice about it before deciding that Murphy's capacity for a relationship extends no further than requiring someone to help him do normal-people stuff.

Or worse. Would people spread the rumors that Iris was some sort of sexual predator and Murphy was her dimwitted prey that was being taken advantage of.

“Murphy!” Iris's voice was loud and pulled him from his wondering thoughts as he looked up to her. Her eyebrows were knit together and she was looking at him in confusion. “Have you heard a word I said?” She asked, and he could tell she was a bit cross with him.

“I um... No, actually.” He admitted.

“I thought you wanted to come out here and chat, and instead you're ignoring me.” Iris pointed out, and Murphy noticed that they were in the moonlit courtyard, and they were the only ones there.

“Come on, let's go over to the fountain, yeah?” He pushed himself over to the fountain and she followed. He motioned for her to sit on the stone bench, and she followed him without a word, and crossed her legs, before leaning over on her knees.

“Murphy, we won the game, I used your strategy, and yet you are saying fewer words then I've ever known you to say. What's wrong?”

“What do you see when you look at me?”

“What?” Iris questioned, taken back by the question.

“What do you see?” He asked again, “just humor me, please.”

“Ok, well...” Iris squared her shoulders and met his eyes. “I see a wizard with a dashing haircut,” she smiled at him, using his own words. “I see one of the best commentators for Quidditch I've heard, someone who encourages me and sees my potential. Someone brilliant, and funny who makes me laugh. If you're talking about physically what I see, I see a handsome face, pretty eyes, and really nice broad shoulders.” She held out her hands as wide as he was, “what... What are getting at, Murphy?” Her hands folded over her closed knees and she waited patiently for him. He reached out and placed one of his hands over her smaller folded ones and took a deep breath. He had no idea what her reaction would be, and figured that he had less then a thirty percent chance.

“Do you-could you- see me romantically?”

Iris's eyes widened, and she blinked quickly a few times, and he felt her hands flinch under his own, but she didn't pull away.

“Are you asking me on a date?” She asked gently. He was about to answer her, but she cut him off, “because you should.” He had been looking at her hands, under his, but her words made him glance up to her. She was wearing a grin and had a twinkle in her eye he knew well.

“Iris, would you like to go on a date?” He asked.

“I would.” She leaned forward and pressed her lips to his cheek, while turning her hands over, intertwining her fingers with his.

#murphy mcnully #murphy mcnully x mc #murphy mcnully x jacob's sibling #murphy mcnully imagine #imagine hogwarts mystery #hogwarts mystery imagine #hogwarts mystery x reader #hogwarts mystery #hphm #hphm murphy #hphm Murphy Mcnully

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spaceorphan18 · 7 years

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Finding Kurt Hummel: Swan Song

Masterpost

4x09: Swan Song

Only Glee would write an episode in the middle of one of its middle seasons an episode called Swan Song. Oh Glee...

For those of you who may not know, the definition I found of Swan Song is this: a person's final public performance or professional activity before retirement. (Though I’ve always thought before death as a connotation, too) And supposedly, Kurt has his ‘Swan Song’ in this one only to find that it’s not one at all -- but the beginning of a new chapter of his life.

Exposition

The image coupled with Chris’s name is making me giggle.

Anyway -- Kurt’s moving away from all black! Yay! And, ngl, Shallow me is back to say that I love this outfit on Kurt. Also - I think the disheveled-ness is because it’s supposed to be post-Thanksgiving clean up time. Is it the next day? Idk - I doubt it’s the same night.

Anyway - Kurt just gets off the phone with Blaine to tell Rachel that McKinley was eliminated from Sectionals.

Kurt: I just feel bad for Blaine. If he was still with the Warblers he’d be on his way to Regionals right now.

Normally, I don’t nitpick individual lines, but this one has always rubbed me the wrong way. While I get what they’re going for - delivering exposition while Kurt shows some concern for Blaine’s well being - it comes off as a little too flippant and superficial - and slightly undermines the emotional weight of their phone call in the previous episode.

However, this does mean that Kurt and Blaine are back on speaking terms - which is more the point than one questionable line of dialogue.

Moving on, Kurt mentions that ND’s loss at sectionals (or his Vogue internship and reconnecting with Blaine, because the original reason is stupid) has woken him up to taking changes on opportunities that he gets. And that he’s putting everything on the line for his NYADA audition. And while Rachel says you can always reply again, Kurt says he’s done chasing that idea if it doesn’t work out.

And I do like what Kurt has to say here. That he’s wise enough to know that if this doesn’t work out, that maybe it’s not meant to be and he should move on to other things. This is a much healthier attitude than Rachel’s - I’ll stalk you until you let me in - attitude. Now, why wasn’t he applying for other schools in the mean time? Idk... But, I’m glad Kurt doesn’t see NYADA as the be all and end all of moving his career forward.

Let’s take a second and appreciate the fact that Kurt is on the NYADA chat boards, researching everything he can so he can better his chance of getting in. I mean, Kurt does the work. Go Kurt!

Meanwhile, I’m epically rolling my eyes at this little sequence to show how amazing it is if Carmen Tibideaux invites you to her exclusive Winter Showcase performance. I thought we were trying to move away from Season 3 Rachel-issues, Glee. The proudest moment of these people’s successful lives is when Carmen hands them an envelope? I adore the hell outta Whoopie Goldberg, but c’mon show.... Whatever, I should stop before I go on another massive Rachel-rant.

Carmen Tibideaux is the Worst

Kurt comes in to talk to Carmen Tibideaux about his application and possible audition. I’m not so sure what he was planning to hear from this meeting but it definitely wasn’t this...

Look - I’ll be frank with this. Carmen doesn’t make any sense to me. She lets in to NYADA Adam, Brody, those sycophants, and Rachel after she stalks her, who are all, imo, surface level people, but doesn’t let in Elliott, Jesse St. James, or Kurt, and axes Blaine without thought (along with that other girl at in Rachel’s class). Hires Cassie July as a teacher. And again will give Rachel a third chance after she claims here she barely gives first chances. I really wish Goldberg was given a better character, because I want to like her, I do. But the inconsistant writing stops me from doing that.

But also - what she tells Kurt here is frustrating. Really frustrating.

So - Carmen breaks it down that Kurt is talented, but his Not the Boy Next Door performance seemed to lack vulnerability and soul. Which - I call bullshit on, because I’m not so sure how much more vulnerable Kurt could have gotten wearing those gold lame pants. But, more so, we, as an audience, know that that was Kurt putting it all on the line. That was Kurt showing off who he was and everything that encompasses that.

Now - the issue here I see as two things. One - Carmen (wrongly) equates lack of props and glitter and showiness as automatic soulful. There’s more than one way to show what’s inside you. Plus, stripped down to just the music does not always mean more emotional . For the love of everything - Rachel sings an emoting balad every other episode, and I can count on one hand the number of times there’s emotional depth to it. Two - the auditions themselves are flawed. You want to have a good audition going into a performing arts school? Here’s my advice - have a two or three numbers ready for you, each showing off how you are a multifaceted performer with the ability to do many things, even if there is one thing that’s your strength.

Glee’s commentary that only one kind of art is worth anything pisses me off -- but that’s after years of academia behind me, and the elitist ‘high art’ concept often found in academia annoys the hell out of me. But that’s a story for another day.

The thing I often wonder - was Carmen always planning on putting Kurt on the spot -- or did she come with that in the moment. Based on her conversation here, I really don’t know.

And Kurt leaves the auditorium feeling broken and defeated. Poor kiddo just can’t catch a break it seems. But - I will argue that all the struggle Kurt has to go through makes him a far more interesting character than Rachel, who is always handed the glittery envelope.

Winter Showcase

I’m not gonna go too much into Rachel’s story -- because the more I watch, the more I want to throw things at it. I’m also rolling my eyes at how the Winter Showcase is a competition -- because you can’t really compare a ballet performance with a vocal performance with a -- whatever else they have going. Evaluating art doesn’t work that way. Gah. Whatever.

Kurt’s line about appreciating this part in the rom-com but let’s get a move on is pretty cute though.

Kurt watching Rachel during her performances. I don’t begrudge this section - Rachel actually hasn’t had a solo since episode 2 (gasp) and these songs play to Lea Michele’s strengths. I am rolling my eyes at Rachel winning this whole thing though. (Man, I’m rolling my eyes a lot at this episode. Who wrote it...Tina?)

There’s a point during Rachel’s performance that Carmen looks over to Kurt. So, maybe it was a spur of the moment decision to ask Kurt to sing -- or maybe grasping the opportunity to see what this kid can really do when put under pressure.

Whatever the case -- Kurt’s in shock when she calls him up to sing.

Kurt is - of course - freaking out in the lobby area. He feels as though he can’t go on without his props, his scaffolding, his gold lame pants. But Rachel has a very good point (yay! when Hummelberry gets to be evened out a little) -- he’s at his best when the songs come from within himself. Now, lucky for us, 99.9% of all Kurt songs are emotionally valuable to the story being told. Rachel brings up I Want to Hold Your Hand, but I could make a case for just about any of them done on the show. It’s bizarre, really, to claim that Kurt’s solos are a superficiality, but clearly the Glee world sees more (?) or something that we do not.

Anyway - Being Alive is a song he picks, and Rachel (like the rest of us) jump on that choice. Who cares if it’s something Carmen claimed she hated -- giving it real depth and meaning is something that’s going to impress her.

Kurt mentions the fact that I Want to Hold Your Hand was so special was because he was going through a difficult time, it was his way of focusing in on his dad and dealing with that when he was sick. Kurt’s not sure what to focus in this time - but Rachel says -- yourself. And this song, man. It’s the culmination and release of everything that has happened in Kurt’s story, more specifically the season 4 arc, but I could argue a case for the entire series so far.

Which is why I find this song so special....

Kurt: Hi, I’m Kurt Hummel and I’ll be auditioning for the role of NYADA student.

This is one of my favorite Kurt solos ever. Chris just nails it. It’s a male song, which allows Kurt to be in his lower register -- which he’s fairly comfortable in. It’s funny, at the time, I had wished that it had had just a little more edge to it. But listening to it now, in the wake of doing all this season 4 meta, I’ve gotten chills going back to it. Maybe the context just makes the song for me. But regardless -- still one of my favorites.

(Also - oh how nervous Kurt is. I’m always fascinated the way Kurt plays with his hands when he gets super nervous.)

For those of you who may not know, Being Alive is from the musical Company -- and about a guy who decides that his bachelor life of never going out and doing anything isn’t doing it for him anymore. That he’s ready to take risks and get hurt in the process because at the end of the day, what is life if you’re not pushing yourself to, well, be alive. And it kind of works fantastically for Kurt’s story here.

Some might say that since the Break Up, Kurt has been a shell of himself. I might argue that since Goodbye -- and having his original dreams of going to New York and NYADA and starting a career have been dashed, Kurt has been inward and wandering and without focus. The Break Up just exemplified that even further -- and he’s been hiding in his own little bubble, easily letting Rachel guide his life, existing as he works through some dark times in his life. And this song, and this moment is about him breaking out of his own self-imposed shell and going out there and, well, being alive again.

He says he didn’t know what the song was about until just then - but that’s because he now has been through some of the tougher things in life and come out on the other side. And knows that even though life really sucks at times, it’s caused him to be a stronger person.

This song is also about Blaine -- in the way that Blaine sung My Dark Side about Kurt. It’s not just about the other person, but there’s a lot of them in there. I sometimes think of this as being a response to that song - in addition to everything else.

But before I talk about Blaine....

Somebody, hold me too close Somebody, hurt me too deep Somebody, sit in my chair And ruin my sleep And make me aware Of being alive Being alive

Somebody, need me too much Somebody, know me too well Somebody, pull me up short And put me through hell And give me support For being alive Make me alive

Somebody, crowd me with love Somebody, force me to care Somebody, let me come through I'll always be there As frightened as you To help us survive Being alive

I wanted to put (some of) the lyrics here because they’re really quite fantastic. And really speak well to Kurt -- almost asking someone to come and help him feel real things, help him live a life worth living whether that’s bad or good it’s better than not doing anything at all.

And -- I saw this fantastic fan video once (I wish I could find it, alas I cannot) where it illustrates that those people are not just Blaine -- but his dad, Rachel, Karofsky, the other glee club kids, a lot of people are in Kurt’s life who pull him out and make him feel things and make life real.

But of course -- Blaine’s all up in the subtext of this song -- especially post Break Up. No one can really quite make Kurt come alive like Blaine. No one can really quite break Kurt like Blaine.

Kurt spent most of his life, especially after his mom died, shielded up and protective of himself. And Blaine came along - and experienced the most vulnerable things with Kurt. And then broke his heart. And of course Kurt retreated. But this song is about moving forward again after that. And not shutting himself off to living life.

And hence, the second half of season 4 -- as limited a POV as we get -- is about doing just that.

The thing about this performance -- Kurt’s open and emotional and vulnerable, but it’s not the first time. I think of some of Kurt’s past solos -- A House is Not a Home, Rose’s Turn, I Want to Hold Your Hand, As If We Never Said Goodbye, and I Have Nothing -- and this thing they all have in common, despite all being vastly about different things -- is that they let other people see what he usually guards very close to his heart. And thus why this performance, to me, is so powerful.

And Kurt -- at the end is fascinating. He kind of draws back into himself, because the response, positive as it is, is somewhat shocking. Kurt when he sings goes to another place, and now that he’s back in reality, it’s slightly overwhelming -- especially for an introvert who just exposed a piece of his soul for everyone to see.

Don’t Dream It’s Over

The last song of the episode, the group singing about continuing on even if it feels hopeless -- well, that makes a lot of sense in connection to Kurt’s story as well. Because Kurt gets his NYADA acceptance letter (finally) and the whole episode is a lot about not giving up on yourself or your dreams, even when everything seems to be over. You never know...

#finding kh #kurt hummel

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