#I also think the silly energy in this scene is top notch. | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

onceattwice · 4 years

Text

TWICE Reaction: Wisdom Teeth

PAIRING: TWICE x Reader

REQUEST: can i request twice’s s/o getting their wisdom tooth out and being all cute and crazy not knowing what she is doing.

TAGS: Fluff

NOTES: This was really fun to write on! To whomever requested this one: thank you and sorry this took so long to get out!

WORD COUNT: 5,403

IM NAYEON

Nayeon sat in the waiting room, idly flipping through a couple of magazines. Every so often, she would check her watch, internally counting down the minutes before she could see you again. You should be finished at five o’clock. Of course, she’d come thirty minutes early just in case, since she was your ride home.

She stifled a laugh as soon as she saw that Dr. Choi had rolled you out of the surgery room. You looked like you were blackout drunk. “Y/N is still a little hazy from the laughing gas but they should be good to go in a couple of minutes. We suggest you keep them here until the laughing gas leaves their system completely.” She nodded quickly, affirming that you would indeed be staying here.

“I brought some energy drinks for her but I’d rather not have her spill it all over my car,” Nayeon joked lightly with the surgeon. He chuckled in agreement but quickly excused himself, claiming that he had another appointment to attend to. She politely waved him goodbye. As soon as she had heard the light click of the closed door, she turned around so she could take a proper look at you.

You had your eyes closed, and although it looked like you were sleeping, she wasn’t entirely sure that was the case. Logically, she knew that you were fine and that the doctors here at ‘Kim & Turne’ were Korea’s top-notch oral surgeons. However, that didn’t prevent the small pinch of panic from flowing through her system. She stomped down the impulse to call Dr. Choi back into the room, and instead opted for sitting down in the small metal fold-able chair beside you.

As soon as she had sat down, you suddenly sprung up like a maniac. Nayeon screamed out in surprise, her arms flailing beside her. “Y/N! What is wrong with you?!”

“Woogly boogly my booty,” you answered with a stern and serious expression. Nayeon sat in complete shock and disbelief. Suddenly, she exploded in laughter.

“What in the world are you talking about?” Instinctively, she reached for her camera. From the many years of living with Jeongyeon and Momo, she’s learned to just go with the flow and capture whatever you were saying so that she could use it as blackmail later down the road. Nayeon was a little sad that she wasn’t able to capture your first line, but at least now she’d be able to record the rest of it.

“You’re really pretty, are you dating anybody?” Your words were slurred together, almost as if you were a foreigner to the language. Swaying side to side, she noticed that you were starting to interest in your arms.

“Unfortunately, yes.”

“Are you dating my arms? My arms look pretty gnarly, I should’ve known it was a bad idea to make them my wingmen.”

She cackled at your response. Although she very much did enjoy your arms—as being wrapped around them was one of her favourite nighttime activities—she would not go as far as to say that she was dating your arms.

“Nope, not your arms. I found something much better.” She zoomed in to your gaping mouth. Your eyes were a little unfocused, but she found hints of disappointment and disbelief within them.

“How cold of you, you’re hurting their feelings! So cold, to break up with them right in front of me. So cold.” You wrapped your arms around yourself, mumbling nonsense in an attempt to comfort them.

“I think you’d be glad to know that you’re actually dating me,” she chuckled in amusement. You were being so ridiculous at the moment, but she also found your actions to be quite endearing.

“Oh great, I’m a homewrecker!” You broke free from your arms, extending them as far out in front of you as possible. Nayeon expertly dodged them. Again, years of training from avoiding Sana’s grabby hands. However, Nayeon didn’t have much experience when it came to you crying. Thus, she was absolutely bewildered when you looked up and you had tears streaming down your face.

“My arms have always been there for me. I can’t believe I just betrayed them like that! What kind of human am I?” Wailing in despair, you slumped back down onto the medical bed. Nayeon just stood there, not knowing what to do. Honestly, she found the entire conversation to be quite entertaining, but now that you were crying, she had no idea what to make of the situation.

“There, there,” she awkwardly patted your back, in the hopes that you would stop crying. At this point, she still had her camera pointed towards you, expecting you to surprise her with another one of your mood swings. But instead, you just lied there with your eyes closed.

Shaking her head in disbelief, but with a hint of fondness, she tilted the camera towards herself and said to the lenses, “You are never going on laughing gas again.”

YOO JEONGYEON

Jeongyeon was fully aware of the effects of nitrous oxide, aka laughing gas. That’s why she’s currently seated in the waiting room with a professional Canon EOS RP camera. She tried to convince Jihyo to be her “light person”, but unfortunately she declined, claiming that she was not going to get wrapped up in her shenanigans again.

Your relationship with Jeongyeon was quite a silly one. Neither of you were scared to make a fool of yourselves. Therefore, this lead to the creation of an album titled “HAHA”. It was filled to the brim with silly video clips of both of you. Admittedly, it wasn’t a very original name. However, in one of the earliest clips, Jeongyeon produced her signature ‘haha’ laugh. Except she then proceeded to choke on her rice cake.

She was cleaning her lens when the doctor informed her that you would be stationed at one of the private waiting rooms. They claimed you were being a little too energetic and proposed that she stayed there with you until the gas left your system entirely. She readily agreed and happily made her way to the room.

Jeongyeon had seen her fair share of laughing gas videos online, most of which consisted of hysterical laughing, inappropriate questions, and overall confusion. However, she was not expecting to see you flopping around on the medical bed in complete tears. She faintly debated filming you just because you looked like a fish on land, but ultimately decided that’d be a little mean.

Your eyes were bloodshot and you had small drops of snot leaking out of your nose. She immediately ran over to you, leaving her equipment by the door. “What’s wrong?”

“My legs are gone! They cut them off!” You were hiccuping and furiously wiping away at your traitorous tears.

“No, they’re not.” Jeongyeon deadpanned.

“Well then explain why I can’t walk!” You wailed as you sniffled angrily. Truthfully, Jeongyeon thought you looked like a small baby. In a way, it was kind of cute how upset you were. She sighed and tilted her head at you.

“Yes, you can. You just haven’t tried yet.” This seemed to provoke you even further.

“Yes, I have! Look.” You proceeded to throw yourself on the ground. She gasped in shock, scared that you might have hurt yourself. Before she could even process the situation, you began to flop around. Jeongyeon bent down and placed her hands on your arms in an attempt to try and calm you down.

“For the love of all that is holy, please stop moving.” She laughed as she tried to control your relentless squirming. Too busy enjoying the scene, she completely forgot about her camera. You were pouting, desperately trying to escape her hold.

Soon after, the sound of the door opening resonated throughout the room. Jeongyeon looked up to see a young lady enter the room. She was wearing scrubs and introduced herself. After hearing a lot of commotion from outside, she just wanted to come and check-in with you guys.

Before your girlfriend could reply, you looked up at the nurse, eyes crazed, and shouted, “Look! I’m as useless as Magikarp now. I’m a Magikarp! Mag-i-karp!”

There was a small pause. Suddenly, Jeongyeon and the nurse both burst out laughing. Both of them were so caught off guard by your sudden exclamation. Tears began to spring up in Jeongyeon’s eyes as she doubled over in laughter. Gosh, you were just too darn adorable. Right this moment, she decided that she was going to keep you forever.

The nurse propped her arms on a nearby counter in an attempt to stabilize herself before she collapsed in laughter. “Please tell me you got that on camera.”

“Oh shoot!”

HIRAI MOMO

Momo was already seated in the private patient waiting room. The doctors informed her that you would be wheeled into the room after the surgery and that she could either take you straight home or wait for the laughing gas to wear off. She decided that she would be taking you home straight away as you would likely be more comfortable there.

You got wheeled into the room looking absolutely dazed. Momo thought it was quite funny that you were sat in a wheelchair. She quickly thanked the assistant, grabbed the chair handles, and prepared to push you out of that center. However, before she could move, a plethora of incoherent mumbling flowed out of your mouth.

“Hm?” She bent down in an attempt to try and hear you better. Leaning over your shoulder, her eyes trained on your mouth as she tried to piece together what you were mumbling.

“I said I want kisses.” You turned your head up slightly, pouting as you tried to catch Momo’s lips in yours.

Momo’s face immediately flushed as she swiftly backed away. She stood up, back straight as a board, and pointedly avoided the assistant’s stare. A boisterous laugh echoed through the room.

“I’ll leave you guys alone.” The click of a closed-door helped to indicate to Momo that the assistant had left the room.

“I-I’m not too sure that’s a good idea. You just finished your surgery after all.”

A sharp whine escaped your throat and you begin to thrash around in your chair. Momo’s eyes widened in surprise as she tried to stabilize the chair. But to her dismay, her hands fumbled and the wheelchair completely tipped over with you in it. Various pitched squeaks escaped her throat as she desperately ran over to check your body for injuries.

There you lied, completely motionless but still laughing like a maniac. Crouching down, she lightly scolded you for acting so carelessly. However, you just opened your arms up wide and tried to pull her into a hug. Momo was so caught off guard that before she knew it, she was lying on the ground with your arms wrapped around her torso. Her cheeks were stained red with embarrassment as you rocked her back and forth.

“I caught my prize,” you whispered into her ear, causing Momo to become flustered for a different reason.

“Oh yeah?” She patted your head, deciding to play along with you for now. However, she was only met with silence. Confused, she pulled away slightly so that she could look into your eyes. She doesn’t quite know what she was expecting but she definitely wasn’t expecting to see you looking back at her with the softest gaze ever. Speckles of love splashed across your irises, making Momo’s heart flutter uncharacteristically.

“Yeah.” You smiled dopily at her.

“And what’s the prize?” She whispered seductively into your ear, relaxing a little in your arms. If you were going to be so cute and cuddly, then she was going to enjoy it while it lasted. ‘Thank god we’re still in the post-surgery private room,’ Momo briefly thought.

“A big fried rice cake,” You replied, squeezing her even tighter in your grasp.

“Big?” Momo squeaked indignantly. That was not what she thought you were going to say.

“Indeedly so!”

“You’re sooo sleeping on the couch tonight!”

MINATOZAKI SANA

Sana drove over to the building at which you were currently undergoing surgery for your wisdom teeth. In theory, she would arrive right when you finished. She was your ride home since you wouldn’t be able to drive home yourself.

When she arrived at the clinic, they immediately directed her into a small white room after she checked in with the receptionist. After closing the heavy wooden door behind her, she quickly scanned the room for you whilst also taking note of the slick interior design.

There you were, situated on one of their hospital beds with a nurse gently holding your arm. She was mumbling something that Sana couldn’t quite make out, but it seemed to relax you. She huffed, a little annoyed because the nurse was a little too close for her liking. Clearing her throat with a sharp ‘ahem’, Sana stood by the front of the door, staring at the woman expectantly. The nurse quickly acknowledged Sana’s presence and politely stepped away from you.

After she explained that the gas would leave your system soon, she left the room in a hurry. Grateful for the privacy that the room allowed the two of you to have, she quickly stomped on over to you and started to inspect your face. There was slight bruising in your cheeks but nothing to be concerned about.

However, what was concerning was the fact that you had tears streaming down your cheeks. You looked up at her with a small pout and glistening eyes. She furrowed her brows in confusion and instantly situated herself in the remaining space on the bed. “What’s wrong?”

“My dog is dead,” you mumbled dejectedly, voice filled to the brim with pain and sorrow. Sana, however, could only chuckle in amusement. She had no clue what you were going on about.

“Honey, you don’t have a dog.” She rubbed your back comfortingly, hoping to calm you down a little. Your only response was a cry of despair.

“Well, I don’t anymore! It’s dead!” You buried your face into her neck, weeping miserably. You clung onto her white shirt, soaking her shoulder with your heartfelt tears.

Sana thought you were being extremely adorable. She softened a little at how much you cared about your supposed ‘dead dog’. Honestly, it was a true reflection of how much of a loving and emotional person you were. She wrapped her arms around your torso and lightly rocked you back and forth. She never really knew how to comfort you with words when you were crying, but she was a master at physical contact.

Your sniffles resonated throughout the room, but you were finally starting to calm down a little. Sana’s hand cupped your cheek, bringing it away from her neck. You let out a small whine in protest but she just rolled her eyes. Giving you a quick peck on your forehead, she wiped away the remainders of your tears.

If Sana were, to be honest though, this whole situation was more than a little amusing to her. You didn’t even like dogs, you much preferred cats. She genuinely had no idea where you got your ‘dog’ from. She booped your nose lightly and giggled playfully when your eyes suddenly went hazy and unfocused.

Maybe she could have a little fun with this. Deciding to indulge your laughing gas antics, she softly asked, “What was your dog’s name?”

Once again, a couple of tears welled up in your eyes. When you jutted out your bottom lip, Sana, in turn, cooed at how adorably soft you looked. She reckoned she looked much of the same whenever she was around you though. Her love for you goes beyond plain-

“Her name was Sana.”

You got pushed off of the bed.

PARK JIHYO

She double-checked her bag before getting a manager to drive her over to the clinic. Jihyo didn’t trust herself to drive the car as she knew she would likely be spending the entire ride taking care of you. Thus, she got a manager to come with so that they could drive on the way home.

When she arrived, she immediately got led to the room that you were staying in. After your two-hour wisdom teeth surgery, they had placed you in a private post-surgery room with an assistant to watch over you until your girlfriend arrived. When she entered the room, the assistant left. On his way out, he reminded Jihyo to sign some papers at the front desk before leaving. Jihyo agreed readily to his request.

As soon as he was gone, she ran over to your side. “How are you feeling?”

“Like a hamburger on crack,” you replied groggily. Jihyo raised an eyebrow in confusion. Had the laughing gas not left your system yet?

“Do you think you can stand?” She placed a hand on your elbow, gently tugging it. This prompted you to slowly stand up.

“Do you think my legs ever get sad?” You whispered dejectedly as you directed a small pout towards Jihyo. She led you away from the bed, carefully thinking of a response in the meantime.

“No, I don’t think they do sweetie.”

“They carry me everywhere but I’ve never carried them!” You reasoned with Jihyo, panic flooding into your eyes at the thought. Bewildered, Jihyo looked back at you. She opened her mouth to tell you to stop being so ridiculous, but to her surprise, tears were falling from your eyes. Your bottom lip trembled as you anxiously played with your fingers.

“I’m a terrible human.”

“I don’t think it’s physically possible to...carry your legs.” Jihyo giggled, a little amused by your antics.

“I’ll never know until I try.” Your girlfriend let out a high pitched yelp as she watched you drop yourself onto the floor. In a desperate attempt to try and carry your legs, you hugged them close to your chest and started to shake your bum on the floor.

Jihyo laughed as a constipated look overtook your features. You were slowly scooching forward on the clinic’s dirty marble floor.

“Dear god this is embarrassing,” she grinned as Jihyo pulled out her iPhone. A true testimony to her impeccable idol skills, she somehow managed to capture some flattering angles—as flattering as one could look wiggling on the floor—of you. She quickly sent the 30-second clip to the TWICE group chat, thoroughly enjoying your small lapse of judgement due to the gas.

A couple of minutes later, although you were still a little woozy from the laughing gas, you did seem to be thinking a little clearer. The hazy look disappeared from your eyes as they did a small scan of the room.

“Why am I on the floor?” You asked Jihyo confused. All you got was a cheeky wink as laughter carried throughout the room.

MYOUI MINA

To be quite honest, Mina was a little terrified. She’s never taken care of someone post-surgery before and she was more than a little anxious that she wouldn’t do a good job. She had done plenty of research beforehand of all the foods you could and couldn’t have, as well as some special aftercare techniques to ensure you wouldn’t get an infection. By all means, she was completely prepared. However, she didn’t feel as though she was.

Mina had definitely seen her fair share of laugh gas videos online so she kind of knew what to expect. But when you got wheeled into the room, looking as hammered as can be, Mina began to freak out. The nurse quickly reassured her that yes, that was normal and that no, you would not look like that forever. She let out a sigh of relief. Truth be told, she much preferred your original face.

When the assistant left the room, Mina sat patiently, waiting for you to say something weird. She reasoned that she just had to let you do whatever you wanted to do and that there was no real way for her to stop you. She just prayed you wouldn’t reveal anything too...scandalous about your relationship. You also did not need to air out any dirty laundry either.

However, to her immense surprise, you just sat there staring at her with a look of wonder. “Y/N?” She whispered cautiously, careful not to set you off on a tangent although realistically she understood that that is not how laughing gas works.

“Can we cuddle? I miss you.” You responded in a tone that was just as gentle as the one Mina had used. She blinked twice, a little confused, but ultimately decided to grant your wishes. You rarely ever asked for physical affection, not to mention in such a careful and fragile voice.

She climbed onto the clinic bed, careful to not rock it too much. You didn’t seem to mind too much though as you hastily, and quite clumsily, made room for her to sit. As soon as she got herself situated on the bed, you wrapped your arms around her torso in a huge bear hug and pulled her down into a lying position.

A small puff of air escaped her lips due to her surprise but she quickly grew comfortable as the familiar scent of your laundry detergent filled her senses. From there on, you didn’t say much. You would periodically shift a little, burying your face into her neck, but aside from that, you didn’t say a thing.

A nice peaceful calm settled in the air. Mina let out a sigh of relief, secretly glad that she didn’t have to take care of a crazed version of you.

“I love you.” Your words were muffled against her sweater, but the meaning was not lost on Mina. She cooed slightly at how adorable you were being. You guys rarely said those three words, only saving them for special occasions. That way, it made them sound even more meaningful than usual.

She let out a small breathless chuckle, her cheeks red at the implication of your words. “I love you too.”

KIM DAHYUN

Did she look like a tourist with that huge camera bag swung across her chest? Yes. Did she look ridiculous? Also yes. As soon as Dahyun had arrived at the clinic, she requested to have a private post-surgery room. Of course, they complied with her wishes. After all, she was Kim Dahyun of Twice.

She had managed to drag one of the managers into the room with her. The manager was in charge of setting up the lights as she positioned the camera. Her experience of being an idol was coming into handy. Dahyun knew just how to get the perfect angle so that you would still look pretty, even if you were acting absolutely ridiculous.

A knock on the door shook Dahyun out of her concentrated stupor. “Please come in!”

When the employees helped you into the room, they were surprised to see such a professional set up. They were also surprised to see the manager sitting in the corner, panting from exhaustion. Dahyun shot them a disarming smile. Confused and slightly scared, they gently led you to the clinic bed before swiftly exiting the room.

Dahyun clapped her hands together in excitement. Now comes the fun part! However, much to her dismay, all you did was lie on the bed with your eyes closed. You weren’t acting like those people that she saw on YouTube. Dahyun pouted, a little disappointed that you were taking a big nap. At least you looked kind of cute with that big bandage wrapped around your head.

She smiled lovingly, albeit a bit defeated, and began to dismantle her camera and lights. Just as she turned off the camera, she heard you let out a small groan of pain. Her head snapped in your direction.

“Are you okay, Y/N?”

You groaned again in response. Dahyun carefully set her camera on the ground before approaching you. When she arrived beside you, she noticed that you were holding your leg. Pain crossed your features as you mumbled a bunch of nonsensical phrases.

“What’s wrong?” Panic flowed through her veins as she desperately searched your body for wounds. Had the surgeons messed up? Before she could come to a conclusion, you suddenly shot up, completely dismissing your previous leg pain. Dahyun yelped as she jumped back in surprise. You stared at her, a serious expression crossing your features.

“I have the sexiest legs in this entire universe.”

Dahyun blinked twice.

“Huh?”

“My legs are sexier than Momos. My legs are so hot they could fry perfect sunny side eggs.” You then proceeded to place your index finger on your thigh as you made an unnaturally loud-sounding sizzle, all while looking very constipated.

Dahyun let out a boisterous laugh, completely caught off guard by your actions. She could even hear the manager laughing along with her.

“Yes, your legs are very hot,” She placated. However, instead of calming down like she thought you would, you began to pout even more. Crossing your arms around your chest, you turned yourself away from her.

“I bet you think Momo’s legs are hotter.”

My god, you were adorable. Dahyun stifled a laugh by cupping her hands around her mouth. “Sure sounds like someone’s jealous.”

“Of those dumbbell looking legs? Never.” You snorted, a little offended that she would ever insinuate otherwise. Dahyun let out a very amused laugh.

She was definitely going to tell Momo you said that.

SON CHAEYOUNG

Was she going to take advantage of your laughing gas situation? Yes. Was she going to paint your face and then take photos for blackmail? Also yes.

Chaeyoung happily collected her various brushes, as well as her colourful palette of paints, and gently placed them in an art bag. Soon, she would be departing from the dorms and on her way to the clinic. To her calculations, she should arrive as soon as you finished your wisdom teeth surgery.

“Maybe I could paint Y/N as Mona Lisa.” She adopted a thoughtful expression but quickly tossed that particular idea in the trash can. “Nah, I like the clown idea better.”

When she arrived, she noticed that she was receiving quite a few odd looks from the receptionists. Chaeyoung looked down at her bulging black bag. Now that she took a proper look at it, it did kind of look like a body bag. She rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly. “Ah, just some outfits for my next photo-shoot,” She said. You know, like an absolute liar.

They nodded understandingly and seemed to quickly forget about her presence as they went back to work. Soon after, Chaeyoung was directed into a small white room with waxed wooden floors. They told her to wait here as they went to grab you. She bounced in her seat in excitement, mentally preparing herself to make you the prettiest clown in the entire universe.

You got wheeled in on a white bed, seemingly asleep. Chaeyoung grinned evilly as soon as the assistant had left the room. “Attack!” She screamed her battle cry before whipping out her brushes.

She made quick work of the paint, mixing various colours expertly to get just the right shade of red. Truth be told, she was a little skeptical as to why you were not waking up. However, she got so caught up in her work, she quickly forgot about it.

A couple of minutes in, she had already successfully, although a little messily, painted the white around your eyes and lips. She also managed to finish the red nose and cheeks. All in all, she was pretty proud of herself. In-between sessions, she would take photos of you from various angles. When she took a quick step back, she realized you looked absolutely comical.

Laughing in amusement, she decided to stop there and just let you wake up naturally. Washing her brushes in the nearby sink, she eyed you carefully, excited to see what you would do after you woke up.

When you eventually did wake up, you stared at her groggily, confusion contorting your facial features. Chaeyoung stifled a laugh. The clown makeup was truly spectacular. Dare she say it was her best work yet.

It was time for the reveal. Chaeyoung opened her phone camera and directed it to your face. At first, you were extremely surprised by the sight. However, you didn’t say anything. You just touched your face gently, pinching and stretching your skin. She chuckled at how adorably confused you looked.

“I guess the laughing gas still hasn’t left your system yet,” Chaeyoung deducted.

“Chae?” You mumbled, a little disoriented. She hummed playfully, happily awaiting for your response. She desperately wanted to hear your thoughts. You looked up at her in amazement, eyes full of wonder. “The plastic surgery was a complete success. I look gorgeous.”

Chaeyoung doubled over in laughter, hitting her head on the bed in the process.

Sure, she later ended up in the ER, diagnosed with a slight concussion. And on top of that, after the laughing gas left your system and you realized what Chaeyoung had done, you started to ignore her, despite her best efforts to cheer you up.

However, it was all worth it in the end because she really did get some amazing blackmail photos.

CHOU TZUYU

Tzuyu, despite her member’s constant reassurance, was still a little scared about having to take care of you. She’s never had any of her friends or family members have surgery. And the time that Jihyo had received her knee surgery, Tzuyu wasn’t even around her. Jihyo had stayed home with her parents, absent from all of their scheduled activities.

She nervously played with her fingers, patiently awaiting your arrival. When you finally did arrive in the post-surgery room, she was so stunned by the immediate bruising of your cheeks, she had barely paid any attention to what the assistant had told her.

When she realized that she had zoned out, she sheepishly asked the employee to repeat it. They smiled kindly before quickly giving her a small summary of what they said before leaving the room.

According to the assistant, you were to stay there until all of the laughing gas had left your system. You might say or do weird things, but that was all normal. Tzuyu pulled out her phone and quickly set her timer for ten minutes. That should be enough time for the effects to wear off. She sat ramrod straight, a little awkward and unsure of what to do next.

However, when you groaned in apparent pain, she immediately rushed to your side. “Are you okay? Where does it hurt?” She grabbed your hands, hoping some physical contact would help comfort you.

“My tummy.” That was not the answer she was expecting.

“Your stomach?” She asked bewildered. You just had a wisdom teeth surgery, there was absolutely no reason for your stomach to be hurting. She patted your stomach lightly whilst staring at your face, trying to pinpoint where exactly the pain was coming from.

Another small groan left your throat as she apparently touched a sore spot just above your belly button. Tzuyu was definitely panicking by now. Her eyes shot back and forth as she scanned the rest of your body. What had they done to you?

“You fill my tummy with butterflies.” You grinned cheekily at her, any supposed pain was quickly forgotten. She gaped at your words, unsure of what to say. Tzuyu’s cheeks lit up like a Christmas tree, the redness quickly reaching the tips of your ears. There was no reason to be so nervous, she reasoned with herself.

Dear god, you were being adorable. Even under the influence of laughing gas, you were still a smooth talker. She giggled as the sudden invasive feeling of being a high school student with a crush filled her system. She felt oddly flattered and more than little flustered. Her eyes softened as her entire body relaxed.

However, your expression quickly suddenly turned serious. “I’d appreciate it if you could stop though. I need that room for food.”

Tzuyu burst out in laughter, completely caught off guard by your sudden change in demeanour. Yup, there was no reason to be nervous after all.

226 notes · View notes

tae-cup · 4 years

Text

The Analyst | Night Terrors (2)

Pairing: OT7 x Reader

Summary: The prestigious department of police and investigations in Seoul, Korea, is called to the small town of Cape Springs in rural California. Nothing is quite what it seems here.

Warnings: Blood, violence, you know crime stuff? Fluffy stuff somehow

Genre: Mystery, Crime, Angst, a lil humor, sexual innuendos, BUT I S W E AR DON’T WRITE SMUT OKAY

Word Count: 8k Words (they just keep getting longer omg)

A/N: Let me know your thoughts! Any suspects? Just message me if you want to be tagged!

Thank you so much to @kingbewwy for helping with my story planning and ideas!!

Beautiful header by the wonderful @dnrequests

Other:

Series Masterlist

Normal Masterlist

Previous | Next

You were leaving class, head down, trying to stay out of the way of the students in front of you. Blending into the background was something that you wanted, but you also couldn’t hide your passion for forensic analysis. The entire process fascinated you, plus it was a job that had you easily disappearing from the public eye. You were taking biochemistry, toxicology, and criminal justice to bolster your dreams.

It was a normal day. Normal as it could be for you, anyway. You were currently interning at the local police station on a work study permit. You would go and observe how things worked in your free time, often shadowing the forensic analyst of the team. Jae-hwa was an older man with years of experience, yet no cases to use that experience on. The man would often grumble about the slowness of the town as he showed you how to work the equipment.

Today, you made your way to the station, shoulders drooping under the weight of your backpack.

“Y/N!” Your mentor called. “Come here, we want to introduce you to somebody.”

“Okay?” You dropped your bag in the office lounge and made your way to where you could hear his voice. He stood, a younger man next to him.

“This is Namjoon, he’s interning here as well now.”

You smiled warmly, Namjoon did the same. He had dimples, which you couldn’t help thinking were adorable.

“Nice to meet you, I’m Y/N, I hope we work well together.” You held out your hand and he shook it. His grip was firm, but not tight.

“Nice to meet you as well, and same to you.” He dipped his head in acknowledgement. He seemed cool, calm, and collected. He would make a great police chief. If it weren’t for that hair.You thought to yourself. His bright blue hair might be a little too...funky?

“I’ll let you two get acquainted.” The forensic autopsy technician passed you some money. “Here, go out to lunch or something.”

“Oh, it’s fine, I can pay.” You smiled, offering the cash back to him. You may be a broke college student, but you still refused handouts. The man sighed.

“Just take it, Y/N.” Then he left.

There was an awkward silence as you and the other intern stared at each other. He swallowed, you blinked a couple times. Finally, you cleared your throat.

“I guess we should get going, then I’ll show you around the station.” You announced, headed towards the exit. The blue haired male snapped out of his daze and raced after you.

“So what brings you here?” You asked, turning the corner and scanning the street before quickly crossing the road.

“You just jaywalked.” He brushed past your question. For some reason, his tone made you feel as if you’d just been convicted of murder. Your eyes darted around the block before turning to face him.

“And you have bright blue hair. Don’t point out the obvious. Besides, I don’t see any cops. What are you going to do, arrest me?” You rolled your eyes.

“My hair is perfectly fine- it was just a stupid dare, and anyway aren’t you supposed to be representing the station?”

“It’s not like I’m wearing a uniform or holding a sign screaming that I intern at the police department.” You pursed your lips. Why did he make you so nervous?

“Maybe not, but I am about to be a police chief.” He raised an eyebrow.

Your face went pale.

“What?”

“Yeah, I’m assembling the best of the best to create Bangtan Police Department. We’re going to take the police world by storm.” His chest puffed slightly in pride. You only laughed, watching his expression deflate.

“Namjoon you are hilarious. You’re so young. Just get through this internship and think over it again.” You patted his arm and continued walking down the street. He gaped, once again having to catch up to you.

“Excuse me, I’m sure you’re actually younger than me! And it’s true, it’s going to be great!”

“What are you going to do? Call out every person who jaywalks?” A small smile slid onto your face. He was not as amused.

“I’m going to help with solving murder cases, cold cases, help the poor, anything.”

“Uh huh.” You opened the door to the cafe. “Got any people in mind?”

“I have a couple friends. Yoongi is already known as a top notch investigator and he’s training a rookie named Taehyung, but they’re on board with joining.”

“Min Yoongi? The person who helped solve the murders of Hyun and In-sun?” You tilted your head in interest.

The murders of Hyun and In-sun were a famous case in Korea. The case itself was filled with weird holes and inconsistencies, along with the fact that the local police had been bribed. In the end, the case had gone cold until Min Yoongi came in and solved it within a month. It was...extraordinary. There was something different in the way that man’s mind worked.

“Yeah!” Namjoon nodded enthusiastically. “My father trained him.”

You narrowed your eyes, not believing his story.

“Okay, okay, who else?”

“Well, my second in command will be my long term partner and friend, Kim Seokjin. He’s a reasonable man with experience in the field as a police officer and investigative reporter.”

“Interesting, continue.”

The drinks arrived, condensation dripping off the glasses.

“Well, that’s all I have so far. I’m planning on recruiting more once we get more well known.”

You pinched the bridge of your nose.

“Okay, let me get this straight, lover boy.” You ignored his flushed his face at the nickname you just appointed. “You have four people and you want to start the world’s best investigative slash police team.”

“Yes.” He said, his voice softer and you could tell he was losing his energy. “But I still need an analyst.” He gave you a pointed look.

With a sigh, you studied the man. He had potential, he just needed to cultivate it. With a little growing and pushing, he’d make a great police chief. You sipped your water, mulling over the idea. It was definitely enticing, to offer yourself to him once you were done with your studies, but he was looking for the best of the best.

“You should ask Mr. Jae-hwa.” You decided.

“Who?”

“My mentor. Surely he introduced himself.”

“Well yeah, I remember him I-” He sheepishly ran his fingers through his hair. “Okay, he’s your mentor, right? So why don’t you just...join?”

“I’m inexperienced.” You frowned. “I’ve only been an intern for a year and studying for two.”

“Once you graduate.” He amended. “I think we’d work well together.”

You chuckled, thinking over the opportunity. It was a risk. Every police department was looking for a good forensic analyst, you could find a good job at an established department if you wanted. Still, the offer he was giving you was enticing. Being partners with him didn’t even seem so bad. Namjoon had a hunger inside him. A hunger to prove himself and you could see him going the distance. You picked up your menu, a little smile gracing your lips. You shook your head with amusement.

“You’re too hungry, Namjoon.”

You had been busy. You were already working on several cases and had traveled out to Daegu to personally investigate a case. It was about a head found in a car, the body found a few days later in a house. There was lots of blood. You placed the cotton swab into a tube and sealed it up to test later. Then you maneuvered around the crime scene, trying to avoid all the police doing their jobs. You had a habit of trying to shrink, to stay out of everyone’s way as much as possible.

That’s when Namjoon called you. You frowned. Isn’t he in America? You glanced at the time. 4:15 P.M. You sighed, picking it up. Typical, for him to call in the middle of the night.

“Namjoon, why the fuck are you calling me? You know I’m busy, as I said, you could just send your samples to the forensic analyst back at Bangtan….are you doubting my team’s capabilities?” You scoffed at his urgent tone. “There’s no reason for an ‘on site’ analyst.”

You put him onto speaker phone and stepped into your car.

“Yeah, we also have murders over here, what makes you so special?”

“And here I remembered you being so nice.” His muffled voice came through the speaker.

“Excuse me! I am nice! I just don’t enjoy being pulled away, I have an important job to do here too.” You complained to him, indicating and turning left.

“Please!” A new voice came through the phone, audio cracking and popping from bad connection.

“Taehyung, is that you?” Your eyebrows furrowed. “The connection is so poor here.” You glanced at your samples.

You could send these to your team and join Namjoon and the others. It had been a little under a week since you last saw them and your skin was just itching to be near them again. Perhaps it was a silly little crush, or crushes if you factored in the fact that there were seven of them. You didn’t think it possible, but here you were, pining after seven of your coworkers.

“Fine!” You cried over their voices shouting into the phone. You parked in front of your hotel. You were already clearing your schedule and arranging for the samples to be sent to your team of analysts. “I’ll be there in two days, just please grab some blood swabs for me.” You huffed, hanging up.

You pressed your forehead to the wheel of the car, a sigh escaping your lips as you pressed your eyes shut. These boys were already giving you a headache and you weren’t even with them yet.

Two days later, a Tuesday, you set your bags down in the empty lobby of the Cape Springs police station. You arrived like the plague doctor, briefcase and everything, the fading sun behind you. The dust made you want to sneeze, your nose scrunching up as you fought the urge. You decided to go straight to the police station, y’know, for funsies; and also to surprise them. The hard suitcase that held your equipment was in hand as you sneakily made your way through the building.

You could hear the murmur of their voices and you turned right down a short hallway. There was an open door that led to a conference room with a large round table. Eight chairs were pulled up, one empty, a ninth chair in the corner occupied by a small looking girl. She was eagerly taking notes of the conversation.

“Once Y/N arrives, we can finally look over the samples. My best guess is Rohypnol but you never know, it could be something less traceable, like oxygen injected into the bloodstream.” Namjoon declared.

“But we’ve never found any discarded needles, that seems nonsensical.” Jimin pointed out.

“Rohypnol is a good guess, based on the reports you sent in.” You leaned against the door frame, arms crossed. A sly smile graced your lips.

Startled, eight heads turned to face you. Seven smiles broke out.

“Y/N! You’re finally here!” Taehyung jumped up, Jungkook following suit. You opened your arms, used to their tag team hugs.

You peer over the taller men’s shoulders, just barely, to catch Namjoon smiling with, perhaps, relief. Jin was observing the sight, amusement evident in his posture, Hoseok was quick to wait behind Jimin who was also awaiting your hug. Then there was Yoongi who didn’t seem bothered at all, yielding no reaction.

You weren’t exactly disappointed, this was his usual behavior, but it was surprising. Time to fix that attitude. You had always been a motherly figure, despite your lack of interest in having children. The two younger ones pulled away and before Jimin and Hoseok could launch forward, you put up a hand to stop them.

“Yoongi.” You barked harshly, placing your hands on your hips. He groaned loudly, like a reluctant teenager. “Is that any way to greet your mother?” You frowned in mock disapproval. “Come give me a hug.” You opened your arms up to him and made a grabbing motion with your fingers.

“You’re not my mother, I’m way older than you.” He grumbled, standing and giving you a quick hug. You flushed proudly. Everyone, you included, knew Yoongi would follow your orders, begrudgingly, yes, but he would still follow them no matter what. He held a deep respect for you, despite being four years older. You never knew where it came from, but it was there.

After the awkward hug, Jimin and Hoseok embraced you. They giggled and easily snitched on the misbehavior of their friends, receiving annoyed shouts from the other boys.

“Taehyung!” You cried, horrified. “Is it true you’ve only been eating french toast for all your meals?!”

“That’s not completely true. I ate regular toast once when they were out of ingredients for french toast.” Taehyung said grimly, his face without a trace of humor. You just huffed and turned to the remaining people.

The girl was visibly startled by all the commotion and she stood next to Jin and Namjoon. A little too close. Your eyes narrowed, but you shook your head. You needed to focus on the task at hand.

There was still a twinge of jealousy. You were the only female in the inner circle, the best of the best. The eight wonders of the crime world. Each specializing in a different area, constantly called upon for the biggest of mysteries. Every single one, without fail, ended with a stamp on the file; Case solved.

“And who is this?” You tried to hide the slightest twinge of jealousy in your gut. She seemed to be a perfectly nice girl, a bit fragile looking, but someone with the face of an angel. She looks like she wouldn’t hurt a fly.

“This is Hae-won.” Jungkook grinned. “She’s my age and she’s here to study the process!” He explained excitedly.

“That’s great, Jungkook. Lovely to meet you, Hae-won.” You passed off her slight narrowing of eyes to a trick of the light. After all, the sun was coming in low at this hour and it could have been shining in her eyes. You held up the hard suitcase that had your heavy equipment. “Where can I set up my equipment?”

“O-over here.” Hae-won stuttered, rushing ahead to show you the old forensic room. “We haven’t had the need for it in a while, I’m sorry it’s so dusty.” She apologized, dipping her head in embarrassment.

“It’s perfect, thank you.” You bowed to her and she left the room to leave you to set up.

You took out your plastic test tubes, ziplocs, microscope, and petri dishes. Then you checked to make sure your camera wasn’t scratched before throwing open the blinds. The window was facing the opposite direction from the sun so all you could see was a long shadow hitting the building next door.

“Joonie?” You barked from your room. You made a note to pick up wipes to clean up the place.

“Yes?” His footsteps pounded down the hallway and then skidded to a halt outside the door.

“Did you get the blood samples like I asked?” You asked, a cheery tone to your voice.

“Yes, but can’t you wait? I know you’re a workaholic, but we’re heading out to the diner for some dinner.”

“No wonder you guys haven’t been able to solve anything.” You rolled your eyes.

“First of all!” Namjoon sputtered, “Betty’s diner has excellent food and second of all, we need to eat, unlike you. You’re like a vampire, you only need blood to survive.”

“I enjoy my work.” You said dryly, giving him a hard look, fingertips pressed together.

“Yeah, yeah, just a little too much.”

“If this is your way of asking me to live a little, I will have you know that my work is very fulfilling.” Especially when I get to work 24/7 with you guys.

Namjoon sighed and crossed his arms. “You will only get the samples once we go out for food. You will eat at all mealtimes and that’s an order.”

“Fine.” You grumbled, turning around to take out the last lense. “Who else is going to supervise that Tae gets a balanced diet?”

“That’s the spirit.”

He turned to leave, but he lingered in the doorway. His hand rested on the wooden door frame, tethering him to the room. You admired the way his smooth brown hair looked as it became dusk.

It had taken forever, but you had convinced him to stop dying it blue in college. It’s damaging the hell out of your roots and how is anyone going to take you seriously with vibrant blue hair? That’s what you had said. He had relented after some push back and now you were blessed to see his beautiful hazel brown hair.

“By the way, we missed you.” Namjoon murmured softly, you almost didn’t catch it. It was a surprise, but the fearless police chief had a soft voice, one that could easily be missed if you weren’t listening.

“I was gone for under a week before you needed my help.”

His lips quirked into a smile, hand slipping from the door frame as he retreated back to the meeting room.

You decided Hae-won didn’t talk much. You tried to engage her in conversation, but she had responded half-heartedly several times and you gave up trying to push it. A part of you had hoped you would become friends, maybe talk about something other than the murders. Because contrary to popular belief, you weren’t a complete workaholic. Which, now that you thought about it, Namjoon was being a huge ass hypocrite.

Whenever you were on a job with the other seven men, all they could talk about was the case and if they were going to drag you out to dinner, you didn’t want to be regaled with tales of disembodied heads and people being cut open. It just wasn’t polite.

“Hae-won, what did you order?” You asked, trying to include the girl who seemed to shrink with every passing minute.

She avoided your gaze, mumbling something to the table, or it may have been to you. You couldn’t tell because she refused to look anywhere except the ground.

“She said she ordered a burger.” Jungkook nodded at you. You raised an eyebrow.

“She can tell me that herself, yeah?” You didn’t mean it so harshly, it just came out that way.

“Hae-won is just a little shy!” Taehyung interjected, rushing to the girl’s defense. You just narrowed your eyes further.

“And what did you say she was studying to be?” You weren’t an interrogator or investigator by any means, but you had seen Yoongi and Taehyung at work before.

“An interrogation officer.” Yoongi drawled, taking a sip of his water and looking like he wished it were alcohol instead.

“Interesting.” You murmured. Maybe she was just nervous about meeting new people, but she would have to get over that quickly if she wanted to last.

“Oh yeah, I found something at the crime scene yesterday. I wanted to check again.” Jimin said, bringing the conversation back.

“And?” Namjoon looked expectantly at him.

“Well it was after we went to retrieve the samples for Y/N and…” He shook his head. “I think it’s better to discuss it in detail in the meeting tomorrow.” He sighed. “I just wanted to give you a heads up.”

“Too bad we didn’t bring in a forensic autopsy technician.” Taehyung sighed, head resting on Jimin’s shoulder.

It made the man tense, but Taehyung had never been good at reading the room. Namjoon kicked the poor boy under the table, making him jolt upright with an awkward chuckle. Small town, things are different here. It was like the token red dot in a sea of blue.

“I interned under a forensic autopsy technician. I don’t know much, but I understand the process.” You cracked your knuckles, already trying to recall the steps you’d seen Jae-hwa, your mentor, go through. Namjoon nodded along with your statement, having worked alongside you.

“Of course our very own specialist isn’t just experienced in one area.” Jungkook puffed his chest out and you tried to hide the flutter in your heart and the heat crawling up your neck.

“Can I visit the crime scene tomorrow?” You asked, though you would even if they told you no.

“Yes, of course. Do it before the meeting so you can discuss your findings.” Jin nodded.

“When is the meeting?” You were exhausted, jetlag wearing you down.

“2:00 P.M. tomorrow.”

“Okay.” You made a mental note of it. “I’ll be there. Would anyone like to join me?”

“Uh, yeah.” Jimin quickly raised his hand. “I’d like to check it out more.”

“I’ll go too.” Hoseok said, having not spoken much, which was odd for the hyper police officer.

He had spent the time whispering things to Hae-won. It looked like they were in their own little fantasy, their own fan club. For some reason, your blood began to boil at the thought. Calm down. It’s nothing. There’s nothing going on here. You’ve known these boys forever. If anyone is going to be with them, it’ll be you. The last sentence in your mental monologue made you internally slap yourself. How can you think like that? Just shut up and do your job.

Right, maybe your job could distract you from whatever feelings you had towards your incredibly handsome coworkers. Besides, they had a job to do too. The last thing on their minds should be their love life, so the same should apply to you.

“I have french toast?” The waiter asked. You turned your head to face Taehyung so fast you almost got whiplash.

“You bastard, you said you were getting the hamburger.”

He just grinned evilly and leaned over the table to take his plate.

You had seen plenty of dead bodies before, but usually it was easier when they were cleaned up. God, it was like no one understood how autopsies worked in this place. You couldn’t just deal with this bloodied corpse, you need to be able to see and analyse the wound.

Having Namjoon there helped you with your frustration as you swiped at the blood staining the victim’s, Hak-kun, neck. You ignored the goosebumps that broke out when your finger brushed over his very cold and very dead skin. Namjoon looked more disturbed while you held a calm facade.

Right, he’d seen Hak-kun alive and breathing just days prior. The man had seen him warm and full of blood pumping through his heart. The contrast must be disconcerting.

“Namjoon, you really don’t have to be here.” You said softly. You may be a dumb ass sometimes when it came to emotions, but you weren’t heartless. Besides, you could feel the waves of anxiety rolling off him.

Ever the brave chief, he shook his head and took a step closer.

“It’s fine, really.” He swallowed thickly in a way that screamed definitely not fine. “I want to help.”

He could be a real help, you knew that, but your guilt won out. “No it’s okay, I insist. Actually, it would be better if you left while I examined the body.”

“I don’t believe you.” There wasn’t a hint of amusement in his voice.

“Okay, fine, but just stand where you won’t be in the way and take note of everything I say.” You quickly amend. Once Namjoon pulls the ‘I don’t believe you’ card, there’s no escaping his words.

“Alright.” He seemed content with that.

You picked up your scissors to get ready to cut away at the dirtied fabric. You took another moment to look at him. He was standing dutifully, a pen and notepad in hand. He waited expectantly.

“If this becomes too much for you to watch, I won’t fault you for leaving.” Your eyes clouded over in sympathy. He scoffed.

“You underestimate your chief.”

“If you say so.” You then set to cutting away the strips of cloth that covered the abdomen. You took a moment to search for bruising. You found none. “No bruising visible on abdomen, though I speculate there are some on the back, according to Jimin’s description.” Your voice was monotone, calm, without a single waver.

“The neck has been cut deep. I can guess that the killer is experienced. It’s a clean cut, straight down and cutting through the sternocleidomastoid.” You leaned down, surveying for any other nicks.

“I see no other points of contact, the neck being the only surface bloodied. No extra cuts, it’s not messy.” You rolled the body over and cut away the back. Your eyebrows furrowed together. Your lack of speaking caused Namjoon to look up.

He eyed the bruises warily as you moved more cloth aside.

“There is severe bruising along the vertebrae.” You dictated, eyeing the dark spots along the spine. “Most likely caused by dragging. There are other bruises, they look roughly the size of fingerprints.”

You took out the tape set on the tray beside you and pressed a strip to one of the dark spots. “I’ll analyse this, see if there’s any fingerprints. From where they’re located and from the bruising, I can guess that the killer is smaller in stature. Most likely having to drag the victim to his final resting place, unable to support his weight.” You thought for a moment. “That’s enough for now.”

You cut some fabric and placed them in ziploc bags. Then you wheeled the body back into a cold storage unit. You cleaned up your workstation and then left Namjoon trailing behind you.

“How did you figure all that out?” He asked after a moment.

“Those are just my guesses, they aren’t the law.” You smiled gently. “I’m trained to give my best guesses.” You walked ahead. “Now, let’s go visit that crime scene.”

The ground was free of blood. You had even gotten on your stomach to check and found nothing. This could only mean that Hak-kun was murdered in his car. That also made little sense and his positioning was confusing as well. He had been resting against the dashboard, looking peacefully asleep. It was also odd how he even managed to get into his car. A small town like this didn’t have security cameras up and around so that could give no answers.

The only traces of blood were in the car. Drugs must have played a part in this, why else didn’t he fight back? Your stomach turned. This was definitely an odd case. The murders were cold, calculated, well thought out and tracks well covered. It was exceptionally easy to get away with these in such a small town.

You arrived back at the police station to see if your samples were done. They were, and the results were not surprising. Rohypnol. Most commonly known as the date rape drug, it acted fast to immobilize an unsuspecting person. You printed out the results, because thank god they had wifi here at least, and left for the meeting.

The meeting room wasn’t big and with nine of you in it, the walls were suffocatingly close.

“Okay, let’s begin.” Namjoon said as everyone settled into their seats. Hae-won took the seat in the corner. “Jimin, start.”

The detective nodded to his superior and turned to grab his briefcase off the floor. He placed it on the table with a thump. Everyone in the room waited with bated breath. The pink haired man pulled on blue plastic gloves and took out a plastic bag. Inside of it was a beret. It was black with a little gold button in the center. It could be considered cute if it wasn’t found at a murder sight.

“I was looking around and I accidentally bumped open the glove compartment. I found this.” He explained, pulling it out with a gloved hand and turning it to show everyone. Hae-won let out a small gasp.

“That’s mine!” She squeaked. “It went missing a few days ago.”

You exchanged a worried look with your coworkers. Carefully, you placed your files on the table and stood. You crouched in front of her, the men watching you. You placed your hands on hers; she was trembling.

“Hae-won, love.” You smiled softly. “You realize this incriminates you, yes?”

She shook her head violently and pulled her hands away from you. In her eyes, you didn’t see any sign of a killer. You only saw a scared girl, a shaking, terrified out of her mind, girl.

“I-I didn’t-didn’t-” She stuttered, breathless.

Jungkook quickly jumped up, rushing over to comfort the girl. You were pushed aside and you tried your best to keep a frown off your face. You settled for an impassive look.

“Y/N! How could you suggest such a thing, can’t you see Hae-won wouldn’t even hurt a fly. She’s scared of walking home alone at night, you think she’s going to murder five people?” Jungkook seethed. You ignored the rage boiling in your stomach.

“It’s proper procedure, she needs to know.” You tutted.

“And you’re being heartless.” Jungkook hissed. You were taken aback, lips pressing into a thin line.

“I’m doing my job, Jeon.” You said coldly. “Listen, I read the case file, I know you found Hak-kun’s tie and then he was murdered, so there’s a possibility that these talismans are a sign of who is next.” You pointed to the beret as you spoke, trying to shrug off your pain.

“In that case, we need Hae-won under constant surveillance when Saturday rolls around.” Jin said. Instantly they all looked to Hoseok.

“What? Why me?” The man furrowed his eyebrows.

“Have you forgotten? You’re one of the only formally trained and active police officers we have. Jin is too old.” Yoongi smirked.

“Excuse me!” Jin gaped, mouth opening and closing to find a response.

“And if she is the murderer, then we can watch her carefully.” Namjoon turned to you, seeing if this placated you. It wasn’t like you needed to be satisfied by any agreement. You were just doing your damn job, why couldn’t they?

“I have no problem with that.” You sat down in your chair. “Anyway,” You opened your file as the room went back to order. “I found, very obviously, traces of Rohypnol. The victim was definitely drugged, the question is how.”

“All the evidence we have is the glass of spilt water we found. I can only guess he took it voluntarily.” Jin pointed out.

“Well, didn’t he mention having a headache in that tape? He could have easily been convinced.” Jimin leaned back, crossing his arms. There was a tense silence as everyone worked to put pieces together.

“There has to be a motive, there hasn’t to be a reason these people are connected.” You drummed your fingers on the table restlessly.

You didn’t want to be suspicious of Jin, but you were. If he wasn’t the murderer, was it possible he was involved with them? He was the last one in the surveillance room. You didn’t want to accuse him and you were busy denying it to yourself, but it was a possibility. Surely, Yoongi and Taehyung had thought of it as well and brushed it off.

“Hyung, don’t you think that it’s odd that the footage was looping.” Jungkook turned to Jin. “Isn’t security footage one of your specialties? You stayed late, you didn’t notice that he was looping?”

The second in command narrowed his eyes at the young male. “Are you suggesting I have something to do with this?”

There was an intense stare off as they glared at each other. Namjoon reached up to put a hand on his partner’s shoulder and Taehyung frowned at Jungkook. These seven men were the only ones you could trust in a case, what happens when that comes into question? The distrust would run rampant. Namjoon must have been on the same thought line as you because he broke the stare off by clearing his throat.

“Absolutely not, it would make no sense and Seokjin has been nothing but loyal all these years. He has no motive and he’s a trustworthy man.”

“I just think it’s something to ponder over.” The glorified coffee boy said.

“No. We don’t throw accusations around like that, Jeon.” Yoongi turned to scold the maknae. The boy simply shrugged, swiping his bangs off his face.

“It’s odd, that’s all.” He shrugged nonchalantly, ignoring the redness of Seokjin’s face.

Your eyes surveyed the room, noting the tense posture of Jin, the frown still plastered on Taehyung’s lips, the laid back nature of Yoongi, Hoseok’s arm around Jimin, and you decided to break it up.

“Okay, that’s enough. Apologize, Jeon.” You said sternly. The young man, who had been so confident a second before, now looked like a kicked puppy.

“I’m doing my job.”

“You don’t have a job here.” Namjoon drawled.

Jungkook’s face lit up red, embarrassment taking over.

“Yah! We let you sit here and then you go and accuse our second!” Taehyung shouted, jumping up. Jungkook scrambled back as the tall man stalked over to him.

“Kim Taehyung, sit the fuck back down.” You hissed. “And you too, Jungkook.”

They both halted immediately and sat back down. Taehyung swallowed.

“You guys are acting like children.” You huffed. “Now, let me continue.” You took out some papers and shuffled them. “First, it was a clean job. The stroke was purposeful along the jugular. There were no other signs of struggle except the bruises on his back, which could be attributed to being dragged along the pavement. I found no other DNA except Hak-kun’s.” You read.

“The killer was very clean indeed.” Namjoon responded, everyone remained silent. The tensions falling over the room like a thick blanket.

“Okay, I can’t think in this tension. You guys work your shit out, I’m going to look over the tapes again.” Yoongi stood and promptly left.

Your eyes trailed his figure as he stormed down the hall. The door to the room currently dubbed the ‘investigator’s nest’ slammed shut. Taehyung sighed and some of the tension left the room when he stood as well.

“I better go check up on him and work through some files.” He announced, not waiting for Namjoon to dismiss him before he left. You could hear him padding softly down the hall and knocking on the door.

The others gradually stood, making up some excuse or another before it was just you, sitting dumbfounded along with Namjoon, and Hae-won. There was a long, drawn out, silence that stretched between you three. You were an unlikely trio with no Jungkook to bridge the gap. You just stood and left, no further words needed. Besides, you wanted to test for fingerprints on the fabric.

Down the hallway, to the left, the Investigator’s Nest was closed to prying eyes. Taehyung sat on the floor, surrounded by old case files and manila folders. Yoongi sat at the desk, earbuds in as he listened to the tapes once more.

“You know, hyung, no matter how many times you listen to those tapes, nothing new is going to come up. Hak-kun obviously isn’t guilty.” Taehyung said, picking up a paper and reading it. The head investigator didn’t look up from the screen, but he did take an earbud out.

“I don’t think he’s guilty, I’m just wondering if he knew who it was. Maybe that’s why he so willingly took the drugs, maybe he recognized them.”

“You and I have both listened to those tapes so many times I could recite every line from memory.” Taehyung grumbled. He stretched out his legs, avoiding the neat stacks he had littered around.

“I know, I know.” Yoongi sighed and lightly slapped his face to stay awake. His eyes hurt.

“And we both know that he doesn’t mention anyone other than Mun-hee.”

“Maybe he was working with the killer?”

“Why would he be dead now then?”

“I. Don’t. Know.” Yoongi said through gritted teeth.

“Hyung…” The younger male stood and walked over standing behind him. His slender fingers started kneading Yoongi’s shoulders.

Taehyung had been feeling lonely, just a little. Though Yoongi and him slept together, the older man rarely showed his affections. It was the opposite to Taehyung’s openly affectionate personality. Now that they were in a small town, the prejudice was palpable everytime they hugged so Yoongi had basically cut him off from that as well.

“What’s wrong, Tae?” Of course he knew something was up with his young lover.

Yoongi had learned over the years how Taehyung ticked, how he functioned. He knew he had been somewhat neglectful, but he was more concerned about being beat up if the town found out about them.

“You know you haven’t kissed me since we arrived at the airport?” Taehyung murmured in Yoongi’s ear. It would be seductive if Taehyung didn’t genuinely want a kiss. Instead, it came across more whiny.

The investigator sighed and turned around in his chair to look over the taller man. He placed his hands on his hips.

“Is that really all you want?” He fought to keep the flush off his face.

Taehyung nodded wordlessly, leaning down, but Yoongi spotted an odd file on the ground. He moved his head, causing Taehyung to shout in anguish as he just missed his lips.

“In a moment, Tae.” Yoongi stood abruptly, causing Taehyung to stumble back a few steps.

The other man looked hurt, opening his mouth to say something when he saw Yoongi bend down to pick up a file. The head investigator opened the file, flipping through it until he suddenly stopped.

“What is it, Yoongs?” Taehyung peered over the man’s shoulder, but he turned the other way. With a huff, he stood back, studying Yoongi’s face.

“I found something interesting.” His eyes were focused on one spot, one picture.

A girl, her throat slit, blood pooling on the dashboard. She looked like she fell asleep at the wheel. Her hair splayed around her head, soaked in her own red liquid. His eyes trailed up the page. It was dated two years before. The picture was labeled ‘People V.S. Paek Cho, exhibit A’. He flipped to the next page. There was a newspaper article cut out. He examined it, frowning.

“Farmer Chung-hee’s daughter, Joo-Eun, found dead in her car, Rohypnol in her system. Officers claim there was no sign of sexual trauma, however. Paek Cho, an accomplished student and outstanding citizen is convicted of her murder…” Yoongi murmured, reading over the article.

“....Father had to be dragged out of the room by officers once the sentence was read out. An anonymous friend of Joo-Eun testifies against Paek Cho, stating ‘he always gave them the creeps’. Paek Cho receives one year of community service after being convicted of collusion in the murder, but in the end there was not enough evidence to convict the young man of first degree murder or even manslaughter.” He stopped, reading the last sentence in his mind. It’s odd, considering the amount of indisputable evidence stacked against Mr. Paek. His mind was racing with possibilities.

These murders and the murder of Joo-Eun held a shocking resemblance. It could be a way to get back at the town, but the only person mentioned who would have such a motive would be Chung-hee, the farmer, and no one in town had even mentioned him. He threw the file onto the desk.

“Taehyung, tell me what you see.”

The dark haired man picked up the file and flipped through it. “Oh.” was all he said.

His eyes were surveying the same picture, the article, everything.

“Why is the file so empty?” He murmured. He then skipped to the last few pages. “Wait.” He took out the article and placed it carefully down. The paper was old and worn.

“What is it?” Yoongi leaned over, placing his hands on the desk.

“It says here that Mun-hee was a juror at the trial, so was our Jane Doe.” Taehyung pointed to their names.

Yoongi’s eyes snapped up to meet Taehyung’s.

“Taehyung, we need those court documents, now.”

Slam. A thick binder of papers was dropped onto the desks. Jin looked up from his studies, Namjoon leaning over him as they spoke in hushed voices. Jimin was joking about something with Hoseok and Hae-won, who was now under 24/7 surveillance. You stood to the side, talking to Jungkook about your results and also trying to give him some pointers on holding his tongue.

Everyone’s eyes trailed to Taehyung and Yoongi’s panting forms in the doorway then to the binder on the desk. Dust flew from underneath, making Taehyung cough, the sound turning to a wheeze because of how out of breath he was.

“Did you guys just run a marathon or something?” You raised an eyebrow.

“Shut up, Y/N. You know I would never put myself through such torture.” Yoongi scoffed.

“We went to town hall to retrieve some court documents.” Taehyung explained quickly. He then went on to explain their previous discussion in detail, Yoongi chiming in every so often.

“Hae-won, are you alright?” Namjoon interrupted, looking at the trembling girl. She looked like she was panicking, sweat beading on her forehead.

“It’s just not right! They let Cho off so easily, it’s not justice, it’s against everything the law stands for.” She cried out, literally shaking with rage as she spoke. You, along with everyone else, were surprised by her outburst. Hae-won was a curious creature, hm?

“Were you a part of the case?” You prodded, subtly asking why she was so worked up. There would be no other reason for these emotions.

She had such bitterness apparent in her eyes. You watched her carefully, eyes drinking in her movements. You took note of the slightest twitch in her fingers, the crescent prints she left in the palms of her hands, the way her lips tugged downwards.

“N-no.” She said, her voice reverted to the quiet girl you all knew her as. She sat back down, taking in a shaky breath. “I just love this town, this is a sore spot for a lot of the good people in town.” She said sweetly.

“But you knew the jury members?” Jin asked.

“Yes, I...I went to school with them. We were seniors, a lot of us were 18 and the town is small, they don’t have a big pool of choices for jury members.” She explained.

“Right.” Yoongi nodded, seemingly understanding. He then turned his attention to the file in front of him and you did the same. “It looks like, just as we suspected, Hak-kun, Mun-hee, Jane Doe, and the two previous murders were jury members.”

“Poor Chung-hee was never the same after that trial.” Hae-won suddenly said, her voice ladened with pain. “He lives alone now, outside of town; doesn’t speak to anyone, refuses to even look the folks here in the eye.”

Once again, your attention drifted back to Hae-won.

“Did you know her, Joo-Eun?” You asked the girl.

“Yeah, but only a little. We went to the same high school, but she was always nice!” Hae-won said. “I just remember once she came out to meet me when I was about to head home. It was winter and the sun set early, you know? So anyway, it was getting dark and I remember how she grabbed my arm, her face pale. She said to me ‘I think someone is following me, please walk home with me.’ I didn’t think much of it. We don’t have any creepers, you know? But Paek Cho was always off.” She shrugged. Then suddenly she looked stricken, like she didn’t mean to say that much. The dark haired girl covered her face with her hands.

“Can you tell us anything else?” You asked softly.

“I’m sorry, I don’t-I don’t remember. I think she asked me to walk her home from a party once but I refused.” She sighed. “Then she was dead the next day. I was too busy studying for my finals.”

She may have been a harmless bystander, but it was obvious this weighed on her. “I often think about how I was the last person she contacted. I barely knew her and suddenly I was roped in.” She looked close to tears so you went over and hugged her.

The others remained silent, watching the interaction. Namjoon felt his heart flutter when you made eye contact with him. He couldn’t help imagining your arms wrapped around him.

“You said Chung-hee remained outside of town?” Namjoon questioned, not daring to take a step. He was worried he would throw off the delicate balance of tension in the room.

“Yes, but he’s not the murderer! He wouldn’t hurt anyone, he’s just a little grumpy, a real loner.” Hae-won cried.

“How are you connected with him, Hae-won?” Yoongi asked, his voice gentle, but prying.

“I’ve just-I used to buy my produce fresh from him.” She answered easily. “He was always kind.”

Yoongi nodded at her response.

“Jungkook, please take Hae-won out for some fresh air. It’s stuffy and dusty in here, it can’t be helping the situation.” Jin said factually. Jungkook nodded, despite their earlier differences, he still listened to his superior.

Once they were gone, you all stared at each other.

“Okay, I’ll say it then.” Taehyung broke the silence. “Chung-hee is the most obvious suspect here. He fits all the descriptions, he has a motive, he doesn’t speak to anyone in town.”

“But Hae-won said-” Hoseok began.

“I don’t give a rats ass about what Hae-won said.” Yoongi interrupted. “We need to investigate him.”

“It just doesn’t feel right. Something about it isn’t right, but it wouldn’t hurt to check it out, I suppose.” Hoseok relented. You noted that he spent a lot of time giving in to the others. It could be that he had an inferiority complex, being seen as your run of the mill police officer.

“Hoseok, you have opinions too, we’re okay with hearing them out, right Yoongi?” Jimin seemed to follow your thoughts.

“Uh, uh, right.” Hoseok murmured, suddenly bashful now that the spotlight was on him.

He realized that he so rarely was asked what he thought. The man spent a lot of time just following their orders; he trusted them wholly and completely. His faith had never wavered in his partners, his coworkers, his lovers. It felt unreasonable, rude, and downgrading if he tried to bring up his lowly opinions; as if he was tainting their genius by bringing his own stupidity into it. After all, he never finished college. He went straight to the police academy, deciding school just wasn’t for him.

“I just, Chung-hee doesn’t seem like the kind of guy to-to do such a petty thing.” He tried to explain his gut feeling.

“We don’t know what kind of person he is, yet, Hobi.” Jin narrowed his eyes, almost accusing him of colluding with the murderer.

Once again, Hoseok was reminded of his inferiority. Of course, of course. But then an angel sang and came to his defense.

“I have to agree with Hobi.” You said firmly. “My mind is saying ‘it’s obviously him’, but my gut is telling me no.”

Hoseok was...shocked. No one really defended him in these sorts of discussions. It felt out of character for you to do such a thing, often found laughing alongside the others.

“As much as I respect your gut, Y/N.” Taehyung began, a condescending tone dripping from his words, “This is our job. We can’t just not investigate people who are obviously linked to a crime.”

“But in what way? Because this poor man’s daughter was murdered two years ago? You think that’s enough to implicate him in a crime today?”

“No! But you’re missing the point!” Taehyung hissed, running a hand through his hair. “It wouldn’t be a big deal if the crime wasn’t exactly the same.”

You sighed, giving up your fight as your gut twisted. Poor Chung-hee, a farmer who probably just wanted to live his life and get far away from the law, was about to be dragged into another mess.

“Hoseok, go get Kookie and Hae-won. We leave tomorrow.” Namjoon’s eyes were cold, not a hint of emotion betrayed in his stance. “Dismissed.”

You turned away, taking Hoseok’s arm in yours.

“I hope you’re doing the right thing, Namjoon.” Venom fell from your lips. You turned away and followed Hoseok out the door.

Previous | Next

Taglist: @lovelyseomin

72 notes · View notes

bthenoise · 4 years

Text

We’re Starting To Lose It So We Made A Fake Music Award Show To Remember The Quarantine By

We are losing our minds and we aren’t talking figuratively like The Pixies. Every morning waking up in quarantine feels like an episode of Punk’d.

Where is Aston Kutcher -- oh right, it’s 2020 -- Where is Chance The Rapper? we ask ourselves as we peel ourselves out of bed for what feels like the millionth time.

Seriously, though. We know you guys are feeling the same way too. We read the tweets. We see the TikToks. Ya’ll are losing your goddamn minds just like us.

The good thing is, to help with this sense of craziness as best as we possibly can (which isn’t saying much, we aren’t doctors after all -- shout out to all the amazing medical teams out there!) we have constructed the first and hopefully last 2020 Noise Quarantine Awards.

Featuring highly coveted awards such as Best Soundtrack To Fuel Your Hatred For The Government and Best Song To Steal Toilet Paper To, the awards below are meant to shine a light on all the positive things to come out of 2020.

We know it sounds like an impossible task to put “2020″ and “postive” in the same sentence but somehow we did it.

Check out the awards below.

Fantastic Features Award

youtube

Silverstein - A Beautiful Place To Drown

Honestly, there are probably about ten different awards we could give Silverstein’s sensational LP A Beautiful Place To Drown. From start to finish, this is hands down one of the band’s best albums yet. However, for the sake of this very serious and very made-up award show, we are happy to present the scene staples with the Fantastic Features Award.

Not only did the band include familiar favorites such as Beartooth’s Caleb Shomo, Simple Plan’s Pierre Bouvier and Underoath’s Aaron Gillespie, but they also went out of their way to include other artists such as emerging rapper Princess Nokia and Intervals’ guitarist Aaron Marshall. Now if that doesn’t deserve an award, we don’t know what does.

Back Off Pit Daddies Cause This Song Slaps Award

youtube

A Day To Remember - “Mindreader”

But there’s no breakdown! How am I supposed to mosh to this? Would you quit your whining? It’s pretty much impossible for A Day To Remember to write a bad song. And sorry to break it to you pit warriors, they definitely didn’t start with their newest track “Mindreader.

Best Album To Eventually Soundtrack The Next Matrix Movie

youtube

Code Orange - Underneath

Does this one really come as a surprise? Essentially creating their own genre of technology-influenced metalcore (computer core, maybe?), Code Orange’s Underneath is the perfect soundtrack to any type of action-packed, dark web-based, sci-fi thriller like The Matrix trilogy. Now would you like the red pill or the blue pill?

The Welcome Back, We Fuckin’ Missed You Award

youtube

The Ghost Inside - “Aftermath”

A world without new music from The Ghost Inside is a world we don’t want any part of. Thankfully, for the first time since their tragic bus crash back in 2015, the metalcore maestros have returned with the hard-hitting and incredibly emotional track “Aftermath” taken from their soon-to-be-released self-titled album. So for that, the least we could do is present the band with the Welcome Back, We Fuckin’ Missed You Award.

Honorable Mention: D.R.U.G.S (aka Craig Owens) - “King I Am”

Best Song To Listen To On Repeat And Realize You Successfully Killed Two And A Half Hours Of Your Quarantine

youtube

Loathe - “Screaming”

There is nothing made up about this whatsoever. We seriously thank Loathe for creating mind-altering music that transports you to a new dimension. “Screaming” is a gem and the band deserves to be awarded for it. Oh, and also, I Let It In And It Took Everything is an amazing record everyone needs to hear ASAP.

Best Album To Get Drunk And Talk About Your Feelings To

youtube

Violent Soho - Everything Is A-OK

We’re not sure exactly what it is about Australia’s Violent Soho but they always seem to bring the deepest and darkest emotions out of us. Their latest LP Everything Is A-OK is no different. From track one to track ten, the band’s first new album since 2016 is an emotional magnet attracting feeling after feeling leaving us desperate for a drinking buddy and a good cry.

The If It Ain’t Broke Don’t Fix It Award

youtube

August Burns Red - Guardians

August Burns Red has been a prominent staple of the heavy music scene for years. Since bursting out of Lancaster, PA with 2005′s Thrill Seeker, the two-time Grammy-nominated act has been a constant source of inspiration with their bruising, top-notch musicianship. Fifteen years later, with the release of their ninth studio album Guardians, the metalcore vets are still as heavy and hard-hitting as ever deserving of our If It Ain’t Broke Don’t Fix It Award.

Best Album To Eventually Soundtrack The Next Season Of Black Mirror

youtube

Enter Shikari - Nothing Is True & Everything Is Possible

Enter Shikari is easily one of the most unpredictable bands in our scene. One minute you think you have them and their eclectic sound pinned down, then the next they release their genre-shattering LP Nothing Is True & Everything Is Possible. With cinematic twists and turns from the rock-oriented opener “THE GREAT UNKNOWN” to the cosmic tornado that is “{ The Dreamer’s Hotel }” and circus-themed “Waltzing Off The Face Of The Earth,” Enter Shikari’s spellbinding LP is a perfect fit for something just as fascinating as the next season of Netflix’s Black Mirror.

Best Album To Get Your Medical Degree To

youtube

Vermicide Violence - The Praxis Of Prophylaxis

We understand it’s not easy to comprehend deathcore lyrics. However, if you’re in need of a good study buddy while you prepare for the boards, look no further than Jarrod Alonge’s new parody album The Praxis Of Prophylaxis. Covering high-end medical topics such as vaccines, gingivitis, asthma and more, Vermicide Violence’s new LP is sure to help a lot more than those Grey’s Anatomy re-runs.

The Tasmanian Devil Award

youtube

Rotting Out - Ronin

The Tasmanian Devil award is a highly coveted prize (possibly one of our most coveted) given to the album with hands down the most circle-pit-inducing tracks. While there have been some pretty good options this year, the record that stands out the most is Rotting Out’s first new album in over seven years, Ronin. Without going too far into detail -- because honestly, it’s pretty obvious why we picked this record -- if you’re able to stand still while listening to these fiery ass songs, you’re probably a cop.

Best Album To Get Drunk And Talk About Your Feelings To Part Two

youtube

Spanish Love Songs - Brave Faces, Everyone

Really? You’re gonna complain we used the same category twice in a made-up award show only created cause we’re stuck living fucking Groundhog Day over and over again? Instead, how about you put that same energy into enjoying Spanish Love Songs’ brilliant, tear-jerking album Brave Faces, Everyone. You won’t regret it.

Best Soundtrack To Fuel Your Hatred For The Government

youtube

Anti-Flag - 20/20 Vision

Regardless of if you’re really into politics or not, it’s practically impossible at this point to not swear at our so-called “leaders” up in Washington DC. So if you’re looking for the best album to fuel your hatred for the Head Cheeto In Charge and all his helpless minions, look no further than Anti-Flag’s powerful 20/20 Vision.

Honorable Mention: The Homeless Gospel Choir - This Land Is Your Landfill

The Album Most Likely To Get You Out Of Mosh Pit Retirement

youtube

Polaris - The Death Of Me

This record is the definition of “slaps.” From beginning to end, Polaris’ punishing new album The Death Of Me is a heavy-duty rollercoaster ride that will leave you with a melted off face and an endless desire to jump back in the pit and crack a few skulls.

Best Album To Rip A Phat Riff To

youtube

Hot Mulligan - You’ll Be Fine

Hot Mulligan are a bunch of jokesters but there’s nothing funny about their new album You’ll Be Fine -- alright, maybe a few of the song titles are a little silly. The band’s latest release is a guitarist’s delight with ringing mathcore-like riffs that will leave you both jubilant and jealous. Case in point, give the infectious opener “OG Bule Sky” a spin and get back to us.

Honestly, Fight Us, This Song Is A Bop Award

youtube

All Time Low feat Blackbear - “Monsters”

We know what some of you cool cats and kittens are thinking: But this isn’t pop-punk!? Since when does Blackbear get a scene pass? Listen up. No, this song isn’t “Dear Maria, Count Me In” but who cares? It’s 2020 and musical genres are dead. Enjoy the good music while you can before we’re all dead too, okay?

Honorable mention: PVRIS - “Deadweight”

Best Song To Steal Toilet Paper To

youtube

The Chats - “Drunk N Disorderly”

If you haven’t had the fear of potentially wiping your ass with a washcloth over the last few months, this award probably isn’t for you and your 30 extra rolls of toilet paper. However, for us regular folk who have a limited supply of TP, The Chats’ fast-paced High Risk Behavior track “Drunk N Disorderly” is the perfect song for stumbling into someone’s home and swiping a roll or two.

Wow We Didn’t See That Coming Award

youtube

Falling In Reverse - “The Drug In Me Is Reimagined”

Ronnie Radke has never been afraid to push boundaries musically. Whether it’s rapping on a track or dropping an upbeat, synth-laced single like “Bad Girls Club,” the former Escape The Fate frontman always seems to have something new up his sleeve. This year, to help celebrate 2011′s The Drug In Me Is You becoming gold-certified, Radke and Co. released an epic piano-lead version of their fan-favorite title track. The results? A majestic dream-like experience worth repeating over and over again.

If You Hurt Mother Earth One More Time We Swear You’re Dead Award

youtube

In Hearts Wake - “Worldwide Suicide”

There’s been a lot of talk about global warming over the past few years. Recently, while we’ve all been stuck at home, skies have become clearer than ever as wild animals roam the barren streets. This is a dream come true for earth-friendly metalcore act In Hearts Wake.

Now as some cities start to reopen, let us remind you: If you even think about going back to your wasteful, pollution-heavy ways, we and In Hearts Wake will come for you with the same force and brutality as heard on their newest track “Worldwide Suicide.” Watch your back.

Sure It’s Different But Still Kicks Ass Award

youtube

The Used - Heartwork

This isn’t The Used you knew in junior high. Bert McCrackin and Co. have returned with a fresh-faced 2020 LP that is sure to make you feel some type of way. Featuring guest appearances from members of Blink-182, FEVER 333 and Beartooth, The Used’s latest is a heavy-yet-dancy addition to their beloved-and-never-stale catalog.

Better Not Sleep On This Record Award

youtube

Charmer - Ivy

Look, you literally have nothing but time on your hands. Why not spend it discovering new music from bands who deserve your attention? Seriously, turn off Love Is Blind and Too Hot To Handle and give Charmer’s moody 11-track release Ivy a try. You can thank us later.

Honorable Mention: Big Loser - Love You, Barely Living

Holy Shit We Can’t Believe That Just Happened Award

youtube

Dance Gavin Dance - “Calentamiento Global”

Four words we’ve all been thinking since Dance Gavin Dance dropped their highly anticipated album Afterburner: Tilian can speak Spanish!?

Giving the entire Swancore community a jaw-dropping moment with their new experimental track “Calentamiento Global,” in the song, DGD’s brawny frontman shows a little latin flavor with lyrics like “Te adoro, mi reina. Eres la única que veo.” Unsurprisingly, like most Dance Gavin Dance (or should we say Baile Gavin Baile) experiments, the post-hardcore act totally nailed it.

The Back To Basics Award

youtube

The Amity Affliction - Everyone Loves You... Once You Leave Them

The Amity Affliction caught a lot of flack for their experimental 2018 release Misery. While entirely unwarranted as the metalcore vets were just looking to expand their sound, for their 2020 LP Everyone Loves You... Once You Leave Them, the Aussie outfit returned to form with their breakdown-heavy musicianship and brooding lyricism. Still have doubts? How about you give “All My Friends Are Dead” a spin or two.

Skankin’ Pickle Award

youtube

Skatune Network - Ska Goes Emo, Vol. 1

Here’s a fun one. Adding to the list of things we never thought we’d see in 2020, go ahead and add a ska record covering some of your emo favs like My Chemical Romance, Paramore and Blink-182. Already known for his creative covers, Skatune Network really outdid himself this time around with his Ska Goes Emo LP. Who would have guessed you could skank so well to “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)?”

The 2020 Glow-Up Award

youtube

The Word Alive - Monomania

The Word Alive has seen a lot of change over the course of their ten-year career. From 2010′s hard-hitting album Deceiver to this year’s impressive LP Monomania, the band has really grown into who they are today. For the first time, instead of putting out the music they’re expected to release, the Arizona act really stepped out of their comfort zone and dropped the music they wanted to make resulting in one of this year’s freshest and best so far.

Chocolate Covered Cranberries Award

youtube

Four Year Strong - Brain Games

For five long grueling years, we went without new music from easycore noisemakers Four Year Strong. This February, that all changed with the release of the band’s killer seventh studio album Brain Pain. Bringing the guitar-lead heaviness fans have come to love over the years along with their infectious pop-punk-leaning songwriting, Four Year Strong’s new record is the perfect balance of sour and sweet -- like chocolate covered cranberries! Who’s hungry?

19 notes · View notes

schmergo · 5 years

Text

Scarlet Pimpernel at Lincoln Center (informal review)

I just saw the most amazing show at Lincoln Center last night. I said to someone the other day that I don’t usually write informal “reviews” of limited-run productions because nobody else would probably be able to get tickets to them, but this was something special. It was a one-night only semi-staged version of The Scarlet Pimpernel, which originally ran on Broadway from 1997-2000 and has never yet been revived. A rarely-performed musical, my friend Wren and I discovered it in 10th grade and quickly fell in love with the catchy score but never thought we’d see a professional production.

When I first heard about the Lincoln Center concert, I burst into tears with excitement and thought, “Oh MAN, I wish I could go!” and moped around for a few days. Then I realized, “Hang on, I have some money saved. I have lots of unused vacation days. It’s only a four-hour bus ride away. What’s stopping me from going?” And I am so glad I did. Was it a flawless production? No. Was it painstakingly and meticulously designed and rehearsed? Definitely not. But was it one of the liveliest, most entertaining shows I’ve seen with top-notch vocals, hilarious gags, and tremendous audience response (actors sometimes having to cut off the excessive cheers and applause after certain numbers) that culminated in a 100% standing ovation? All that and a bag of pommes frites.

If you’re unfamiliar with the story, The Scarlet Pimpernel is based on a classic adventure-romance novel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy. Set during the French Revolution, it’s often called the original superhero story, in which a disguised vigilante hides behind a mild-mannered secret identity. When fashionable English gentleman Sir Percy Blakeney suspects his new bride, Marguerite, may be a spy for the French Revolution, he sets off on a mission to rescue innocent people from the guillotine- without his wife finding out. But he and his band of merry men don’t fight terror with terror. No, they employ witty disguises, tricks, and antics, leaving behind the mark of a flower called the Scarlet Pimpernel (Percy’s family crest). Back home, the men escape suspicion by exaggerating their mannerisms into ridiculous caricatures of fancy fops who care more about French lace and silk than French Revolutions.

But when Marguerite’s ex-lover Chauvelin (now a high-ranking French agent) blackmails her into discovering the true identity of the Pimpernel lest her brother die, she little knows how close to home her mission will hit.

It sounds like it could either be an overwrought melodrama or a Looney Toons short- and indeed, it is a bit of both. The musical itself endured many extensive rewrites during its short run, never quite finding the right balance. This concert seems to be a mish-mash of about three different past versions with at least one new song. But despite the jarring shifts between heart-wrenching ballads and silly slapstick in which tap shoes become a valuable component in a duel and executioners are distracted by 123 rampant geese, this performance was so rich in heart, joy, and spirit that the whole audience beamed along.

Of the leading roles, the only one I’d never seen or heard before was Tony Yazbeck, inhabiting the many hats (literally) of the Pimpernel himself. I can confidently say that he gave one of the most brilliant performances I’ve ever seen, period. Although he’s already an accomplished performer, I suspect this one-night show might catapult him to being a massive star. He’s, like, a quadruple threat, with so much stage presence that he shimmers. Yazbeck’s Percy can be ludicrously silly or achingly sincere, powerful or vulnerable, with a powerhouse voice and untiring energy and grace. I was sitting close enough to see all of his facial expressions, however over-the-top or subtle, and he was totally immersed in the character the entire time, sometimes hurling his script to the ground with emotion. (Remember, it was a staged concert with about a week of rehearsal.) He frequently breaks the fourth wall, trying to steal a violinist’s bow, dropping ad-libbed comments, sitting in the audience or dancing down the aisle, without dropping his polished English accent. I can’t wait to see what he’ll do next.

My personal favorite singer, Norm Lewis, co-starred as sinister French operative Chauvelin, who I can best describe as a more seductive Javert who is constantly humiliated by those around him. Having recently seen him in the Music Man, in which he gave a jovial performance but struggled with some lyrics, I was relieved to see that he held his script in hand most of the time here. He still flubbed the occasional word and seemed overly reliant on his script at times, but oh my good golly, I have NEVER heard his voice sound better. He has one of the richest, most powerful voices on Broadway, not to mention a huge vocal range, and this score puts all of it to use. This is the 6th time I’ve seen him live (plus his filmed performances in the 25th anniversary Les Mis concert and NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar), and every song he sang here sent huge chills up my spine and fireworks off in my brain. Gosh, I love him. I do think Mr Lewis bit off a little more than he could chew doing these two semi-staged concerts only a week apart— he did seem less confident than the other performers— but I still feel so lucky to have seen him in both.

Laura Osnes sparkles as the sensitive and vivacious Marguerite. Her voice is higher and lighter than how I’d heard the role performed before, but she can certainly belt out a tune when required. She gives nuance and genuine feeling to Marguerite’s inner conflict, even joining in a sword fight to defend her husband! Osnes shows remarkable poise, rarely consulting her script. She has especially great onstage chemistry with Corey Cott, who plays her little brother with earnest puppy dog eyes and a strong pop vocal.

Though I didn’t like all of the changes in the song listing, lyrics, and script, I was completely invested the entire time. The able and versatile ensemble took on a variety of roles, from Percy’s merry men to French guards. Drew Gehling gave a particularly scene-stealing turn in the dual roles of Robespierre (stern and sardonic) and the Prince of Wales (utterly zany and wearing a magnificent feathered hat). Backed by a chorus of over 200 people and a full orchestra, the music was nothing short of sublime.

The pared-down nature of the show mostly came across in costumes and props, or lack thereof- Percy’s elaborate 18th century suits were clearly necessary to the plot, but stood out against most characters’ contemporary clothing. Supporting characters merely threw on a cheap-looking accessory or two to connote a different character or disguise, and Marguerite wore modern ball gowns. Sometimes, the script referred to characters changing clothes without the actors actually doing so. Still, the movement and staging was more complex than I had expected, and I was particularly taken by the effective guillotine prop.

All in all, I left the theatre electrified and touched that this huge audience- David Geffen Hall holds 2,738 and this show was pretty much sold out- had all seen and evidently loved this musical that means so much to me, that over 200 people put in so much effort and enthusiasm to bring it to life, and that I got to be there.

Another thing that unexpectedly moved me was Percy’s character arc. I’ve always strangely related to Percy despite not being heroic, rich, or fashionable, but I AM known for being kinda silly and flamboyant. And like Percy, I like to think there’s more to me than that. Although Percy becomes the Pimpernel out of anguish and desperation, he seems to genuinely relish getting to act so weird and over-the-top. He seems so comfortable in his own skin. Even when his identity is unmasked, he continues to be outlandish, even forcing Chauvelin into a tap dance battle. He and his wife desperately love one another, his friends care about him and always have his back, and he’s able to be his true and complete self— strong, smart, and brave, yes, but also in touch with his feminine side, compassionate, theatrical, romantic, and generally outrageous. As someone who feels equally accepted by my loved ones despite my outsized personality, I love this non-conformist romantic hero who proves you don’t have to be macho and grimly stoic to save the day.

“And that is why the lord created men!” Percy sings after springing a trap on Chauvelin. Marguerite and Madame Tussaud, who both helped, cough. “And women!” he sings to cheers from the audience.

I loved this show. I wish you could have been there. I’m heading home on the bus right now and this piece reminded me more then anything how much I value and appreciate all of the people in my life. Onward, ho!

#scarlet pimpernel #musical theatre #musicals #tony yazbeck #norm lewis #laura osnes

45 notes · View notes

ahouseoflies · 5 years

Text

The Best Films of 2018, Part II

Part I is here. Let’s keep it moving. ENDEARING CURIOSITIES WITH BIG FLAWS

103. Zama (Lucretia Martel)- In this movie there's a motif of Zama, an officer of the 18th century Spanish Empire, starting a scene by talking to someone or staring at someone off camera. After a minute or two, the camera cuts to some servant and disorients us. There's a person there, always there, to serve him, and it doesn't really matter who it is. It's a brilliant way to get at the colonialism that the character depends on but is still trapped by. So I get a little bit of what the film is trying to do, but it's boring. I'm an ignorant person who doesn't know how to watch Lucretia Martel's films or have any context for South American history, but I know what boring is. 102. I Feel Pretty (Abby Kohn and Marc Silverstein)- I like that Schumer tried something different instead of falling back on her persona, but there isn't enough new or interesting here for me to recommend--besides National Treasure Michelle Williams, of course. The film nearly displays "Do you see that she's turning her back on her real friends now?" on the screen. 101. A Simple Favor (Paul Feig)- At times cheeky and sexy and juicy, but it still wears out its welcome by twists ninety-one and ninety-two. 100. Double Lover (Francois Ozon)- Diverting until it gets silly, then so silly that it gets diverting again. There are about five too many twists, and I'm still unclear on how seriously the film takes any of those twists. More importantly, I don't think there's much of a takeaway from any of it. Ozon seems to have found a real muse in Marine Vacth though. 99. Borg Vs. McEnroe (Janus Metz Pedersen)- As a Shia Pet, I felt obligated to see his portrayal of Johnny Mac. I didn't learn anything that I didn't already know from this mediocre biopic though. Watch the documentary McEnroe/Borg: Fire & Ice instead. 98. Ralph Breaks the Internet (Rich Moore and Phil Johnston)- There's some clever visualization of the the Internet, such as the way that a link shuttles an avatar off in a transparent car or the way that shady newsboy types whisper about pop-up ads. And I liked a lot of the Disney tie-in stuff that critics are wincing at. As far as textbook screenwriting goes, it's great at that idea of making you think that the protagonists will accomplish their goal very easily, only to have them be re-directed to square one. The voice acting is top-notch. Why do these movies get so plotty though? I felt as if the internal logic started getting inconsistent about halfway through--at the same time that the first one got bogged down with candy stuff instead of 8-bit video game stuff. And if there are so many lovable characters from the first entry, why do we get such tiny servings of them here? The movie's too long already, but what I wouldn't give for an occasional cut back to Fix-It Felix raising some kids.

97. We the Animals (Jeremiah Zagar)- The Tree of Life is one of my favorite movies, and on its face, We the Animals is a really similar impressionistic memory. So why do I like it half as much? Are lighting and music that important? Is Jessica Chastain? Is latent racism? All I know is that this felt like a story I had seen before pitched at the same intensity for a running time I was happy to see expire. 96. Kodachrome (Mark Raso)- The three leads are all pretty good. (Ed Harris does this bashful, pulling-on-his-eyelid thing that killed me.) But with mathematical precision, the film matched each element I liked with another thing that infuriated me. Specifically, the whole plot hinges on one scene, and that scene is preposterous and alien to human behavior. 95. Deadpool 2 (David Leitch)- The pacing of these movies is bizarre to me; they're half-over before they really get started. No one else is bothered by the fact that Cable has no motivation or backstory for the first hour? Some of the connections to X-Men felt more forced this time around, but I thought this entry was much funnier than the first, even mixing in some more subtle visual gags. (The exotic locales montage ending in Biloxi really got me.) I have to give credit to the X-Force parachute sequence, which is audacious and unexpected. And clear out for Zazie Beetz, who is a huge star in the making. 94. At Eternity’s Gate (Julian Schnabel)- Something about Van Gogh was essentially unknowable, which is a great reason to make a movie about him and a terrible reason to make a movie about him. I'm not sure that Julian Schnabel got to the bottom of the man any better than anyone else has, though maybe that's an unfair expectation. To his credit, Schnabel yada-yadas the ear business and Van Gogh's death in favor of his more poetic understanding of the artistic life. The movie doesn't coalesce for me, but there's a banger of a scene between Dafoe and Mads Mikkelsen about the responsibility an artist has toward God. That short nested inside makes the whole thing worth seeing. The conversation I had afterwards with one of the two other people in the theater, an art historian, was a solid three stars. 93. Bohemian Rhapsody (Bryan Singer)- Some biographical movies do a good job of compressing time, and their supporting characters don't feel sacrificed or glossed over. For many other mediocre ones though, including this one, I submit the Three Scene Rule. Three scenes is kind of the minimum for a character to register an arc and for an actor to present any kind of dynamic performance, so in a lot of these true story movies, that's all that a supporting character gets. If you're looking for it, it's glaring. (Watch Hidden Figures again with the husband and boyfriend characters in mind. I'll wait.) This movie has a few characters that matter: Freddie Mercury, obvs; the other Queen members; Paul Prenter, the unfairly composited villain; and Mary Austin, the platonic love of Mercury's life. The movie spends way too much time on her, as if to tease the audience with the idea that Freddie might be straight. As for everyone else? Three scenes. Ray Foster, the record executive played by Mike Myers (!): A. "Look, guys, I like formulas. This opera stuff you're talking about? That sounds crazy." B. "The opera stuff is crazy. I ain't making that the single. You can walk out of here for all I care." C. [hangs head in shame after being proven wrong] Jim Hutton, Freddie's partner for the seven years this movie doesn't care about: A. "Look, pal, I may be a waiter, but you can't just grab me like that. On second thought, let's talk. You should learn how to love yourself." B. "Oh, hey. Glad you tracked me down, slugger. You love yourself now? Sure, let's go meet your parents." C. "Guess I'm your boyfriend now. Looking forward to the show." Freddie's Parents: A. "You go out every night! What are you doing out there? Why can't you be a good boy? What's up with your new name?" B. "Why can't you be a good boy? What's up with your new name?" C. "You're a good boy, I guess, even if you're gay. Guess that's your name for real." I like the idea of reproducing the Live Aid performance in full, and the movie comes alive during its musical sequences. But I wish that the same attention given to, like, the number of Pepsi cups on the piano was also given to the nuts and bolts of the storytelling.

92. The Predator (Shane Black)- I get why other people don't like this. The final fourth feels obligatory, and it seems cut to the verge of incoherence. But if you don't get a little tingle out of a game cast saying Shane Black things like, "Predators don't just sit around making hats out of rib cages," then we are very different moviegoers.

91. Sorry to Bother You (Boots Riley)- I admire Boots Riley's ambition, the way he's taking many of the ideas that drove his music and channeling them into film. But there are too many ideas and, strangely, too much plot to cohere. I liked some of the jokes, especially the Robocop-py TV clips laced throughout. I think my main problem, however, is Lakeith Stanfield as Cassius. He's a fascinating actor, but his energy is completely wrong for an everyman lead like this. I don't think he was the right choice to carry it. 90. Thoroughbreds (Cory Finley)- The repartee at the beginning is sharp, and there are some engaging elements of style. God knows I've never complained about rich, sad, nubile brunettes with strange eyes. But there are pieces missing in that forest-for-the-trees way that happens sometimes with debuts. Like, how do these privileged girls not have access to a gun when our national nightmare is based on all young people having access to guns? Or what is the exact motivation behind the crime at the center? Lots of great characters have been spurred by a violent curiosity, but a zinger here and there doesn't make these girls Raskolnikov. 89. White Boy Rick (Yann DeMange)- Even if this isn't it, I think Yann Demange has a great film in him. There's some urgency to White Boy Rick's politics, and it looks interesting. If nothing else, it succeeds in making the surroundings seem as gloomy as the characters all acknowledge them to be. But this isn't a great film in either of its halves. It's motivated by plot until a crucial event that I don't want to reveal, then it veers much more into character. I would normally sign off on that, but this movie grinds to a halt in the change and never recovers. McConaughey pulls his weight, but Richie Merritt is pretty bad in the lead. 88. The Strangers: Prey at Night (Johannes Roberts)- Despite some striking images and a welcome lack of explanation for the menace, Prey at Night doesn't reach the heights of its predecessor, mostly because the characters are too paint-by-numbers. 87. Ant-Man and the Wasp (Peyton Reed)- Probably the first Marvel movie that would benefit from more action. Some of the material is genuinely funny thanks to Michael Pena and Randall Park, but I got a little drowsy during the middle hour of talk about phase-shifting and the quantum realm. Get back to making things big or making things little, Dr. Molecule! 86. Creed II (Steven Caple Jr.)- The pieces are there, but it's a problem when Jim Lampley, who has one hundred times as many lines as the fifth lead, explains to the audience what they literally saw an hour earlier. If nothing else, this movie proves, through his absence, how good of a director Ryan Coogler is. I would be lying if I said I didn't get the chills at some key moments. Stallone’s performance and Jordan's muscles are good. But there was a dark, honest way for this movie to end, and it went directly against that ending into something more Hollywood. 85. Let the Sunshine In (Claire Denis)- Like Taxi Driver if Travis Bickle just wanted the guy to get him a glass of water afterwards. The film does have that kind of myopic focus--the sexy, ever-candid Binoche is in every scene--but it's far more elliptical, progressing only through character, never through plot. Let the Sunshine In is unique in a way that is different from Denis's other unique works: No one talks like an actual person, and she acts as if you should know all of the characters instead of properly introducing them. It's not supposed to be funny ha-ha, so excuse me if that's what I wanted.

84. Revenge (Coralie Fargeat)- like the style of this film, the color palette, the synth score, how far it's willing to go with the gore. But if it's called Revenge, and it's clear who the hero is (hint: not the rapist), then the whole thing feels like a fait accompli. We know exactly who's going to be the last woman standing, and we even know the order of the people she's going to kill.

PRETTY GOOD MOVIES 83. The Rider (Chloe Zhao)- This movie is trying to be a poem, but the parts I like the most are prose. It's a promising piece of filmmaking with heartbreaking moments, but I found it most effective when the storytelling spelled things out. It's an all-hands-on-deck independent film, so the amateurism of the piece shines through in the performances from non-professional actors. The relationship between Brady and his autistic sister is interesting because she speaks with that sarcastic cadence that can be learned from only children's programming. It's unlike what we usually see because, you know, she's a non-professional actor and real autistic person. So what do I know? 82. Unfriended: Dark Web (Stephen Susco)- Pretty tight from a storytelling standpoint and definitely grisly enough to get under the skin. But these laptop flicks move with such alacrity that it's hard to believe them whenever they ask you to buy something like love, since they paint it with the broadest strokes imaginable. Not that I would want a two-hour version of this anyway. 81. Juliet, Naked (Jesse Peretz)- Charming enough, arriving at a more realistic place than I expected, Juliet, Naked does nothing to make me revoke my charter membership in the Rose Byrne fan club. What an odd shape this film has though. The inciting incident happens at the hour mark, and it races obligatorily to an ending at an hour, thirty-seven. 80. Ocean’s Eight (Gary Ross)- It sets its marks and hits them adequately, with most of the charm that made the other Ocean movies fun. But there's something lifeless about Ocean's 8, both in the direction and the score. Take, for example, Richard Armitage's bland, sort of lost performance as an old flame/mark. It's such a nothing part that I began to think that it was a thesis: The men are just chess pieces, and they shouldn't take attention away from the women this time. But then James Corden emerges in the last half-hour and shines. So maybe Armitage was just bad and directed poorly? This movie exists for the Movie Star interplay though, and it delivers on that level. Cate Blanchett was good for so long that she's popular, and Sandra Bullock was popular for so long that she's good. Rihanna has to dress like a janitor at one point as a disguise, and she proves how absurd it would be for her to ever blend in. Anne Hathaway is the funniest of the bunch, balancing on a highwire of how big she's supposed to seem. Helena Bonham Carter gets the "and" hammer for all my credit fetishists. 79. Mary Poppins Returns (Rob Marshall)- I saw this on Christmas night with my family. The original Mary Poppins was the first movie my mom ever saw in theaters, and it's probably my wife's favorite. To the extent that insulting it is kind of insulting an important part of who she is. So I couldn't be the guy coming out of the theater like, "The Bankses definitely deserved to lose their house." Between you and me though, it's just fine. Entire sequences could be cut without damaging anything--do we ever come back to the bowl that Meryl Steep is supposed to be mending?--and most of the conflict feels manufactured. These legasequels always end up feeling like boxes being checked. We all know that the guys with the cannon had to come back, right? But some of the numbers are so joyful or stirring that even this grinch snuck a few smiles at his daughter as she pointed to the screen and said, "That's so silly." It's a good movie to see on Christmas night with your whole family. 78. RBG (Betsy West, Julie Cohen)- This movie is designed to make the viewer who would seek it out go, "What an American hero." It does that, I suppose, and there isn't a whole lot wrong with it. Yes, she is a very impressive person. But the film has too much untapped potential and too few teeth to recommend beyond that rubric of achieving its goals. For example, what about half of the population that would sneer at the notion that Ruth Bader Ginsburg is an American hero? Besides the inclusion of some radio clips over the credits, the filmmakers aren't concerned. "Look, she was friends with a conservative!"

77. Searching (Aneesh Shaganty)- Since I've seen thousands of movies that don't take place inside of a computer, there's still some novelty to the handful that do. On one hand, there are four or five twists too many, and the film isn't consistent with its own rules. On the other hand, it gets intriguingly dark for PG-13, and it never stops moving. 76. Uncle Drew (Charles Stone III)- The attitude toward women is retrograde, and to call the plot cookie-cutter would be an understatement. But this works, mostly because of the sunny, natural performances. Kyrie Irving, whose handles are even more of a marvel on a forty-foot screen, has to act through pounds of makeup, but he pulls it off. With only commercials to his name, he has to carry scenes of, like, standing at someone's grave and apologizing, and he has the presence and confidence to do it. I also should mention that Nick Kroll has a nothing-to-lose, galaxy brain performance for which probably zero of the lines were written ahead of time. "Shout-out to Oberto, shout-out to Aleve, the number one pain reliever in the game right now." I have to extend some of the credit here to Charles Stone III, who has made a calling card out of coaxing performances from newcomers. 75. Christopher Robin (Marc Forster)- Cute. 74. Unsane (Steven Soderbergh)- What seems to be a B-movie hitting its marks gets elevated by one fantastic scene that makes it seem timely and vital. I can't help but think Steven Soderbergh is punching below his weigh class though. I'm glad that an experiment like shooting a movie with an iPhone gets him up in the morning, and I know he doesn't want to make another Traffic or Out of Sight. But maybe, here's an idea, audiences might? 73. 22 July (Paul Greengrass)- The first thirty minutes are harrowing, in part because of their disciplined cross-cutting and Anders Danielsen Lie's chilling stoicism. The mistake that Greengrass makes is thinking that, later on, the three strands of story are equal in importance. He cuts away from the court case at its apex to see a kid trying to walk again or a prime minister demanding that his administration get tougher. Some moments are powerful, and Greengrass's composition and editing have mercifully softened, but this becomes a grind at a certain point. 72. Solo: A Star Wars Story (Ron Howard)- I hate to state the obvious, but this feels like multiple movies stitched together because that's exactly what it is. On one hand, we have the foggy opening, featuring an airtight inciting incident and setting up Emilia Clarke as that rarest of things in a Star Wars movie: a character with unclear motivations. But as the film goes on, it reveals why Han doesn't work as a protagonist. (Ehrenreich is bad, but the storytelling sinks the movie more than his performance does.) Everyone else in the movie drips with charisma and comments on the action while Han is left to connect the dots. In other words, the other characters get to be Han Solo, and Han Solo doesn't. By the time we get to the marauders, past the two hour mark of a movie that shouldn't have been more than two hours, the narrative crumbles under its own weight. These movies are way too competent to fail--I can list five or six moments that transcend the flaws--but each of these origin stories has a way of erasing the myth of Star Wars with a pen. 71. Bird Box (Susanne Bier)- This is a genre film that you've seen before in one way or another, so your expectations (and filmgoing experience even?) will dictate what you think of it. There's a metaphorical reading available, but that doesn't make the picture more artful automatically. Trevante Rhodes is a Movie Star. Here's what I can tell you: We need to appreciate John Gavin Malkovich while we can. Delivering the apotheosis of the selfish dickhead survivor character, he a) asks why the group can't stay in the grocery store forever, b) points shotguns at people when they try to let in strangers, c) drinks as he's telling people matter-of-factly that this is the end of the world, and d) (sort of) explains why he is the way he is. And-he-does-it-all-with-the-deliberate-cadence-that-you-are-doing-in-your-HEAD-right-NOW. I'm not saying the guy should win Best Supporting Actor or anything, but I admire his career more than any that would get a Best Supporting Actor.

#film #lists #movie reviews

2 notes · View notes

popwasabi · 4 years

Text

Some 2019 movies that were...fine.

I watch a lot of movies every year and I try my best to make time to review all of them, not just because I like to write and to keep my blog running with relevant content but because it’s also just good practice.

I need to find creative ways to express myself and dissecting all the ways a movie does and doesn’t work is a great mental exercise for me. The great movies can be all about the complex writing highlighting the directorial shot design and thematic storytelling and vice versa while the bad films can be an autopsy of what exactly killed the whole production.

But there are some movies I just don’t get around to saying much of anything about because well…they evoke no strong feelings bad or good for me after watching them. They’re…fine for a lack of a better word and there’s nothing wrong with that; I’ve watched a ton of ok films that I forget about within days and I’m still pretty happy I got to see them.

I did want to talk a little about the ones I saw this year though because while I had no strong feelings about them I did have a few thoughts and I feel they are worth mentioning here. So, without further ado some “fine” films of 2019:

The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part

The first “Lego Movie” was a delightful smash hit back in 2014. A comedic meta-commentary on pop culture, Legos, and consumerism while a thoughtful look at family and imagination, the movie was better than it had any right to be and helped kickstart two more Lego film spinoffs before its eventual 2019 sequel.

Anchored again by its star-studded cast there’s a lot of good humor once again in this film and it’s a fun family comedy from start to finish. The thing is it doesn’t say anything particularly new and feels like a rehash of much of the same themes and closer to a “Direct to DVD” sequel in terms of imagination.

There’s a by the numbers feel to the plot compared to the more organically creative ideas that went into the first movie and it's just not as fun of a ride this time around. This said it’s still a fun one and kids and families alike more than likely will and have enjoyed it.

All in all, not a bad movie and worth a watch if you liked the first, perhaps on a long flight back from Honolulu like I did this summer.

Shazam!

I love Shazam. I think he’s one of the most fun characters in the DC superhero gallery and a character more than worthy of a big-screen film. He finally got one back in April 2019 and it’s frankly, a perfect take on a classic comic book character fit for the whole family to enjoy.

So why was it just fine for me?

Well, while I do like Shazam and his movie quite a bit there really isn’t a whole lot there beyond it being just that. It’s a superhero film that doesn’t take itself too seriously and the story, for the most part, doesn’t do so either with nothing truly profound to say. There’s a nice found family theme going on in it and the cast of child actors are shockingly great and when they all (SPOILER) eventually transform into their adult counterparts they play up their silly child-like demeanor perfectly. Zachary Levi is of course perfect but it’s Jack Dylan-Grazer who steals the show as Billy Batson’s foster brother delivering plenty of great quips and good humor throughout. But again, there’s not much beyond that than just being a fun superhero romp.

This is a great movie to introduce small children to the genre of superheroes and if I had kids this would definitely be a movie I would take them to see. I’m sure children of all ages probably enjoyed the hell out of it and though it’s no “Dark Knight” or “Endgame,” of course, that’s apples to oranges and frankly who cares? It did what it was supposed to do, which was deliver a nice friendly alternative to the brooding darker superhero takes of Hollywood and frankly I’m more than interested in watching more of Shazam in the future.

John Wick Chapter 3: Parabellum

The first two “John Wick” films are, for the most part, perfect action shoot’em ups. Stylish, creatively violent, and a perfect antithesis to the lazy, unimaginative, explosive-heavy movies that Hollywood normally churns out, the “John Wick” films are the smooth glass of chardonnay to other actions movie jitter-inducing Rockstar energy drink style of film-making.

Chapter 3 is still several notches higher than the average Hollywood action flick and Keanu Reeves is still delightfully dry and deadpan as the hyper-focused killer that is John Wick but as far as the bar set by the first two films “Parabellum” is a few steps below the standard they set.

For one, it’s more or less the same story as the last one. Wick breaks some law set by the underworld of crime and now every assassin, hitman/woman, thug, etc is out to kill him. There are still some fun as hell choreographed gun-kata sequences in this film and plenty of gnarly deaths but the story ultimately doesn’t advance much. Wick films aren’t known for their compelling narratives of course but Chapter 2 at least expanded upon what the first film started; Chapter 3 is content to keep much of the story arcs where they were before only seeming to go a new direction at the very, very end.

This said it’s still a fun movie and a worthy alternative to much of the action schlock Hollywood normally churns out but as far as a John Wick film goes it’s disappointing.

Always be my Maybe

Ali Wong has been on a comedic tear for a few years now. Her two Netflix stand-up specials are great where she talks about the realities of pregnancy, being Asian American, and of course “trappin’ his ass!” and she has even more on the way.

The “Fresh off the Boat” writer is quickly becoming more and more mainstream and her first major starring role came this summer in the form of Netflix’s “Always be my Maybe” alongside the highly underappreciated Randall Park. “Always be my Maybe” is a perfectly fine romantic comedy that fans of the genre will surely enjoy, with enough of a good sense of humor to keep even those who aren’t entertained from start to finish. Keanu Reeves’ cameo as an overly eccentric version of himself is of course the best part of the movie and worth the stream on that alone but the movie doesn’t lend much of anything truly memorable beyond that.

It’s a fairly by the numbers rom-com and offers few real surprises.

This said it does continue Hollywood’s new and long overdue upward trend of Asian American representation and certainly helped moved the needle in the right direction to make critical darlings such as “The Farewell” possible. In the past, a movie like this would need to be extraordinarily good to make Asian America feel relevant but if anything its greatest accomplishment is that it shows that Asian American can have a perfectly “fine,” average romantic comedy like any other white centric film in the genre before it and for that I’m grateful.

Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw

When the trailers came out for this I was really hoping this would be the kind of fun, over the top bad that films like “XXX” and other “Fast & Furious” films in the cool cars, hot chicks, and guns genre have been about for decades but instead, I got a mildly entertaining, decent dose of macho escapism for two hours with only some fun bad moments.

Many have discussed before how “The Rock” is in dire need of having his charismatic skills used alongside more talented directors and a film like this perfectly encapsulates how he has limited himself to these boring, one-dimensional, macho, stoic types over and over again. Jason Statham isn’t much better and frankly an actor who should do comedy more often as his early Guy Ritchie roles showed the guy can do a lot more than just scowl and throw some fancy martial arts at the screen over and over again.

My biggest problem though is the movie doesn’t go nearly far enough in being ridiculous and takes itself just seriously enough to make it a fairly mundane and uneventful action flick instead of being ridiculous, over the top schlock as it should be. This is a movie that features shirtless Samoans doing the Haka before fighting black suited, well-armed mercenaries using war clubs and yet still isn’t nearly as crazy as it should be.

This all said, it’s another “fine” movie for what it is and a decent escape from the doldrums of work life that you can turn your brain off to on a Friday night. You could do waaay worse than “Hobbs & Shaw” even if you’re only interested in the “so bad it’s good” camp of the genre but man, this could have been much more fun in the worst way.

Uncut Gems

This will probably be my most controversial choice on this list and perhaps it was my somewhat bloated expectations going in or maybe I’m just not too big of a fan of the “owe the mob money” genre but I just didn’t get a lot out of watching this movie.

For one there is not so much dialogue in this movie as there is just YELLING! So. Much. YELLING! Every line seems to be screeched at one another with a couple hundred expletives for good measure added for extra edge and its rather grating. A lot was made about it being a bareknuckle thriller that holds your captivation from start to finish but honestly, the best parts, for me at least, were when they slowed down and the characters spoke plainly without screaming at one another.

The film needed more moments where the story was allowed to stew and we got the characters to reflect on everything. These moments in the movie are more uncomfortable (in a good way) than the violence that chases the main characters around throughout the story. It just sprints from start to finish giving very little time to really understand the psyche behind Sandler’s character beyond he’s a fuck up who can’t stop making one more horrible mistake.

This said Sandler really is pretty sharp in this movie and showcases a bit of range that he’s been capable of for more than a while and the music in the film is great and plays greatly alongside each scene. A stylish 80s techno beat that highlights the criminal opulence of what’s going on around the characters, it’s almost hypnotic at times. The cinematography highlights this well with a great use of neon light and colors that make each scene truly pop in the best way.

It’s not a bad movie despite my issues, Sandler is, at worst, deserving of an acting nomination for this role and worth a watch if you get a chance to see it but “Best Picture” material as some viewers have stated? I don’t know about that.

So, there you have it some…fine movies of 2019 that are perfectly passable and worth at least one watch if you happen to enjoy any of these various genres. I think as audience members and people of an increasingly divisive society we like to see things in only two categories; very good or very bad. Explosive arguments seem to ensue anytime someone expresses an opinion that doesn’t fit neatly on one end of the spectrum or the other and it’s a shame because our digestion of art should be a lot more diverse than it being simply binary.

This isn’t to say you should be a centrist on everything or that every middling opinion is a good take (it definitely isn’t) but be open to the idea that some people are just not going to feel super strong about one thing or another sometimes.

Just because someone thinks a film you loved is just “ok” doesn’t mean they have no taste and certainly if someone thinks a movie you hated is “not that bad” doesn’t mean they have no standards either. Sometimes our pop culture yields no strong reactions and that’s ok. Fans, film-goers, and general people alike just need to be more ok with that because at the end of the day it’s not that big of a deal.

TL:DR be an adult. Just liking or being apathetic about a movie is fine and you should be fine with others feeling that way too.

Happy New Year, y’all!

*Begins typing long-winded dissection of “Cats”* (stay tuned)

0 notes

fearofaherobrine · 7 years

Text

Roleplay Server Log #266

“Murder Scene, Cloudrunners, Gem the Dragon, Brothers Spar”

[Lie] Is working on her garden, finally having recovered from CP eating everything in her house when he had been regrowing-

-There's the distinct sound of a slap falling on diamond armor and someone giggling from the front of the house-

[Lie] Looks up with some confusion and shouts kinda loudly- Hello?

-A large golden cat leaps over the garden wall and scatters carrots as he ineffectually hides behind her-

[Steve] Comes huffing into view- No fair!

[Lie] Sighs in acceptance- I just planted those...

[TLOT] Full body shake - Whoops! Sorry Lie....

[Steve] I'll help you replant them.

[Lie] Gathers them up- No need, I got this. Don't need them too badly anyways, finally got them all replanted now after CP eating everything in my house

[TLOT] He was certainly a hungry little kitten.

[Steve] Smiles hugely- Doc got some good screenshots.

[Lie] Grins- I saw. So what are you two up to?

[Steve] Well we were checking up on the villagers but on the way home somebody decided to play slap and tickle...

[TLOT] Happy cat blep-

[Lie] - I see. Hey, do you guys need any more vanilla? I've got a lot again and I just gave some to the village a little while ago...

[TLOT] I guess, we can always give some away on my seed. I think the Testificates would appreciate it.

[Lie] - Well if we wanna head over there, I wouldn't mind stopping by briefly

[Steve] Just in the mood for some adulation, lovely goddess?

[Lie] Sticks her tongue out at Steve-

[TLOT] Hops up on the wall and fluffs Lie's tongue with the tip of his fuzzy tail-

[Lie] Sputters as some of the fur sticks- TLOT!

[TLOT] Walks delicately along the narrow edge of the wall, obviously showing off- Yeeess?

[Steve] Giggles-

[Lie] Summons some vines behind him and gives him a tiny nudge-

[TLOT] Wobbles and then leaps nimbly down. - Always be yourself, unless you can be a cat.

[Lie] - I think human form might be better for a visit, unless you're absolutely determined

[TLOT] I would never visit them like this, but it is fun. Doc is the one who really loves to flaunt their non-human shape.

[Lie] - True, but they've earned it

[TLOT] Eyebrow. Then he shifts back to himself with a little flourish of cloak - Feeling a bit salty today Lie?

[Lie] - No! Just... A little stressed after the last outing...

[Steve] Huh? Did you run into Offender again Lie?

[Lie] - No! Um, we met a friend of Arden's- The unspoken part is "And also his mistress"

[TLOT] Sounds kinky.

[Lie] - Starts blushing- I DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT!

[TLOT] Are you suuure?

[Steve] Is getting the shape of things from TLOT- Oh dear... are you okay Lie?

[Lie] There are flashes of what happened-

[MA] -Happens to be wandering by, humming idly-

[TLOT] Oh.. I'm sorry Lie. She sounds like a rather... pushy person.

[Steve] Hey Alex. what's new?

[MA] Hm? Nothing currently. Just wandering.

[Lie] Little whine-

[Steve] We were just about to head out for a bit.

[TLOT] So many Testificates, so little time...

[MA] Mind if I tag along? Better than what I'm doing.

[Lie] - Well at least the main thing needed to do is just check on them every once in awhile

[TLOT] Of course. Thankfully they're mostly self-managed. I'd hate to be responsible for them 24/7.

[Steve] Sure!

[MA] Sounds like fun.

[TLOT] Okay. Follow me then. - He starts to walk towards the opening and leads them down into the tunnels-

[MA] -Follows-

[Steve] Opens the door to the cage-

[Lie] Steps through and smiles at her offensive pod-

[TLOT] Gets down in front of the console and opens the way. On the opposite side of the portal is a vista of warm sand and sunshine.

[MA] Is.. There a reason we're going in a ca-- wh at the fuck is that? -hunched down to floor, squinting up at the pod-

[Steve] Waves at the plant-

[Lie] - Relax, it won't hurt you

[MA] That's what they said about bomb spores! I do not trust it one bit. Nope. Nope nope.

[Lie] - I created it, it's my means of defense

[TLOT] It's bite isn't lethal, but a victim might wish it was.

[MA] -Suspicious stare at it- ... Creepy.

[Lie] - Shall we go?

[Steve] is already on the other side and kicking sand a bit-

[TLOT] Just waiting for you guys. I don't like leaving this open.

[MA] Yeah-- Before than thing freaks me out anymore... -Swooosh to get onto other seed-

[Lie] Walks through and sighs happily in the desert heat-

-It's just a short walk to the wall of the city and the top edges of the walls are covered with the little thorny vines and a few pods as well. -

-The pods all make a hissing noise at Lie, recognizing their creator-

[Lie] Smiles and pets a couple of them-

[MA] -You bet the most suspicious glances at every pod as he passes them-

[TLOT] Just strides along unitl he reaches the front gate. There's a bit of commotion as he passes inside, and his face lights up under his helm at the sea of smiling faces.

[Lie] Feels TLOT's energy and laughs softly before leaning and whispering to Steve- He's almost like a kid in a candy shop

[Steve] Yep!- Rushes a bit ahead of him and touches a lot of hands happily in the crowd-

[Testificates] Some creep close to get a good look at Alex-

[MA] -Small hand wave and friendly smile-

[Sprlhm] My lord! And you brought friends!

[Cherie] Zeros in on MA- You look like an Alex? But different?

[Lie] Is looking at the gathered Testificates-

[Steve] Thumbs at Ma- This ones a mal-

[MA] -still a few suspicious glances at any nearby freaky pods™ here and there-

[Cherie] How extrordinary!

[MA] Hmm? Oh- Yeah.

[Sprlhm] My Lady, you changed your hair! It's lovely.

-Some of the costumed children are here and there amongst the crowd-

[Lie] - Oh! It really wasn't by choice...- She smiles at how adorable the children are

[Cherie] It looks nice all the same. We've been taking good care of your little ones as well.

[Sprlhm] Kore is known far and wide as place of love now, as well as trade.

[Cherie] Many a mother blesses your name my lady. - winks-

[MA] -Light foot tapping while listening to the talking-

[Lie] - That's wonderful! Oh, and I've brought something for you.- She pulls out the vanilla for them

[Sprlhm] Sniffs the pods- How wonderful!

[Steve] Here, I'll show you how to plant them.

[Cherie] Motions for an acolyte to come running up and accompany Steve to the garden-

[Steve] I'll be right back-

-Some kids run by dressed as some of their friends-

[Lie] Spots the child and giggles at the crude costume of Doc-

[TLOT] That one is ambitious- Smiles as well-

[Lie] Spots the stage and glances at TLOT- Splender?

[TLOT] Oh yes. He made everyone quite happy. So do you folks have any news for us?

[Cherie] There was some odd weather a few days ago, but nothing was damaged. It rained rather heavily in the desert, but nothing since.

[Lie] - Rained in the desert?

[Sprlhm] Gets a rather serious look - There was a murder as well. But no one who will be missed.

[TLOT] Brow furrows- Murder?

[Sprlhm] Someone who had been a trouble maker. An old Testificate who still carried the banner of the evil NOTCH. He was slain by a wandering hero. He'd been using zombies to terrorize the nearby villages anyway.

[Cherie] We didn't realize he'd been at the heart of it until he was already dead. We're working on improving commuications between the towns, so all kinds of news is coming in now.

[Lie] Glances at TLOT- Did you know the testificate that was killed?

[TLOT] Yes... He tried very hard to kill not just me, but anyone who might have agreed with me. I thought he was already long dead... Good riddance.

[Lie] - Do you... Want to go to the scene? Just to be certain?

[TLOT] I think so, yes...

[Steve] Comes back and see's his mates grave expression. The shape of it takes form in his head and he embraces TLOT warmly- It's okay.

[Lie] - Should we take horses or what?

[Steve] Ma? Can you ride?

[Sprlhm] You're free to take some of ours.

[MA] A horse? Probably not much different from a Mammoth.. Yeah?

[Lie] - I could always quickly hop back to the server and grab ours

[TLOT] If you want. Can you get them all on your own with an extra for Ma?

[Lie] - Absolutely

[TLOT] Steps away from the crowd and makes a hole for her-

[Sprlhm] I can tell you where-

[TLOT] No need. I can see the way in your mind.

[Lie] Quickly hurries through and after a few minutes she returns with Hellion, China, Beau, and a black mare for MA- Alright, here we go. Alexsezia sends her regards

[Cherie] She is well? Splendid!

[Beau] Is snorting and pawing somewhat franticly, the sun glinting off of his golden armor-

[Lie] - What is with you?

[Testificates] Ooh and keep their distance from the two undead horses-

[Beau] Paws and turns a tight circle-

[Lie] - Really? Fiiiine- She steps closer to her stallion and unequipts all of his tack and armor. Beau immediately races a little way into the sand and starts rolling- And I just cleaned you too...

[Steve] Hops up on China with a chuckle-

[Hellion] gallops over and joins Beau rolling-

[Lie] Hands the black mare off to MA- She's easy to handle and will pretty much just follow the group unless something really spooks her

[TLOT] Silly horses-

[MA] -Hesitates a second before hopping up onto the mare- Alright.

[Lie] Watches Beau until the horse is finished, standing up and shaking the sand off of himself- You better have gotten it all off, otherwise it's gonna itch you under your tack!

[Hellion] Hops up with a snort and shakes off with a happy groan -

[Testificaes] Smiles and some muffled giggles-

[Beau] Trots over to Lie and nuzzles her-

[Lie] - Yeah yeah, love you too- She starts to re saddle him,-

[TLOT] Brushes off Hellion's back before hopping on. He's not bothering with tack at the moment.

[Lie] Mounts and Beau is restless- Should we get going?

[Sprlhm] Safe journey!

[TLOT] tch tch- And they're off into the desert wastes-

[Lie] Gives a content sound as they ride-

[TLOT] We've got a little ways to go, it's in a really secluded spot-

[Steve] Crouches on China and shows off a bit-

[Lie] - Should we pick up the pace then?

[MA] -Humming a bit as he follows behind them-

[TLOT] Of course- Hellion breaks into a full gallop -

[Steve] Gives China a nudge and they sail easily over a small pond-

[Lie] Urges Beau faster as well-

[Black mare] Senses the groups increase in speed and automatically speeds up herself-

-The miles roll away under them and the sun starts dipping low very quickly -

[TLOT] Damn - We have two humans with us... we should hole up somewhere for a bit...

[Lie] - The horses could use a rest too...

[Steve] Is looking for a high place to make a hole-

[TLOT] Spies a small natural cave up a rock wall- That'll do. Follow me- He picks his way up and rides Hellion inside. - Just knock the stairs away once everyone is up.

[Steve] Checks the back of the cave and lays down torches -

[Lie] Summons vines to cover the entrance-

[TLOT] Sets up a small pen for the horses and some water from a hole in the wall.

[Beau] Eagerly drinks from the hole while the mare waits her turn-

[Steve] Happily pats China

[China] Makes a pleased noise like wind in a seashell.

[Lie] - Okay, so who has food?

[TLOT] I do, always. Mostly junk but nothing to sneer at. Lets see... - starts pulling things out - I've got most of a pizza, some porkchops, a pumpkin pie... and this - with an evil grin he takes out the tiniest piece of cheese-

[Steve] Gags - EAT IT OR PUT IT AWAY!

[Lie] - NO!

[TLOT] Pops it in his mouth and chews it with a blissful expression-

[Lie] - Ugh, hand me one of those pork chops, I don't even want to think about cheese right now

[TLOT] Passes her the hunk of meat-

[Lie] Starts chewing on it-

[Steve] I have so much junk right now from babysitting Yaunfen- He turns a lot of candy out of his inventory, plus some cinnamon rolls and several ice cream cones. - Oh thank goodness - He finds a loaf of bread and starts eating it

[MA] -Settles into a corner, tucking his legs under him comfortably. Nibbles on some food from his inventory. The seashell wind noise from earlier reminding him of home-

[TLOT] Need some food Ma? -offers a slice of pizza

[MA] Nah, not interested. I'm good with my stuff. -Raises Dumbledang pod a bit before resuming nibbling. His other hand is tapping a pattern beside him-

[Steve] That sounds catchy-

[Lie] - Well he is a musician

-Assorted mob noises from outside-

[TLOT] Critics...

[MA] The noise the skeleton horse made reminded me of home.

[Steve] Home? How so?

[Hellion] Contented wheeze.

[MA] Like a seashell noise. Mix spent a lot of time on the beach of Cape Claw.

[MA] Cloud Runners liked to frequent.. -Distant look and change of finger tapping pattern-

[Lie] - What are the cloud runners? I think I remember Mix maybe mentioning them once...

[MA] I think the closest thing to describe it was a... Uhhh... Fancy pterodactyl? I could probably draw a picture of one uf i had some charcoal and paper...

[Steve] I have some paper and a few crayons. - Pulls them out and sets them down, with a little blush - I do a lot of babysitting.

[MA] I had to too, no shame in that. -Starts sketching away, humming a tune-

[Steve] It's okay, it's pretty fun. Gk has got the really rambunctious charges. Yaunfen is such a sweet little dragon.

[Lie] - Willow and Oak have been playing outside a lot

[MA] Taking care of Mix was suffering. The other two didn't keep an eye on her and she would get into all the trouble she could. Atleast NK kept an eye on her when she visited... Prince would for like... three seconds. Then I'd find her playing with the Redeyes and want to strangle him.... -Small flashes of a teeny child Mix playing with what is definitely 3 TREX's floats in the air since he's thinking very intensely on that-

[TLOT] Oh dear... those look rather fierce.

[Steve] Awww. At least she had her brother.

[MA] -rubs chin and eyes sketch a bit- I suppose... At least in the Hollow she wasn't actively near anything that could eat her... -Adds some detail to the Sketch-

[Steve] Scoots over to see his drawing better - Hey, that looks like Celine!

[MA] Celine?

[TLOT] You've met MasterHerobrine right? He's got a little orange dragon that kinda looks like that. That's Celine.

[MA] Maybe.. Probably. Sounds exciting.

[Steve] He's kinda harsh. He really likes to fight.

[TLOT] He's the one that injured Doc and glitched them, before we all met.

[Lie] Tosses the horses some food-

[Hellion] Just kinda sniffs the hay and makes a huffing noise.

[MA] Could introduce a few to Celine.. I've seen a few over the water...

[TLOT] What? HERE?

[MA] No- Not here. On the server. ... I mean... I haven't checked for any here...

[Steve] Pokes Lie. - Hellion likes meat...

[China] Also sniffs the hay and even picks a bit up, but it just kinda falls out the other side of their jaw bone.

[TLOT] How would you even check for that?

[Beau] Happily eats as well as the mare-

[Lie] - Hey TLOT, you have any more meat for your horse?

[MA] It's pretty basic but I could just play the summoning song...

[TLOT] Oh, yes- Fumbles around for a porkchop that still raw and holds it up so Hellion can snap it out of his hand and messily chew on it.

[Lie] Comes to sit by the fire-

[Hellion] Nom nom nom

[China] Leans over the little wall to nuzzle Steve

[Steve] Pats hir skull-

[MA] -Sifts through his inventory for his flute-

[MA] -Finds the purple flute and pops it into his hand-

[Lie] - Are you going to play again?

[MA] Yeah, see if any Cloudrunners, or things related to them are on the seed.. Then I can play music if you want?

[Steve] Hey, that looks neat!

[TLOT] Go ahead. I'd love to hear you play.

[Steve] Parts the vines a little to check the time. It's not quite dawn, but there's a hint of color on the horizon-

[MA] -Puts the flute to his lips and begins. He plays a short tune and waits a second, head cocked, listening.-

[Steve] Scans the sky -

[TLOT] That was nice Ma.

[Lie] Stretches- Is it about time to head out Steve?

[MA] Thanks-

-Something swooshes through the sky in the distance-

[Steve] Maybe... Hey! I saw something!

[TLOT] Gets up to look, the tiny rays of sun flashing on his gold armor as the vines are parted-

-There's another thing, and they're both flying in the general direction of them-

[MA] Really? -Gets up to look too-

[Steve] Look there! - He points and the sun catches his ring and diamond armor as well-

-It's definitely a flying reptile of some kind. Nice. As they get close there is a general similarity to the creature MA drew apparent-

[Lie] Is getting the horses ready-

-The one in the lead swoops down, bumping the wall and landing, sticking his head right in the hole to look at them all-

[Ma] -Muffled laugh into his hand at the direct way of investigation-

-The second one crashes into the first, both of them letting out indignant screeches-

[Lie] Yelps a bit in surprise-

[TLOT] Moves instinctively to protect Steve-

[Steve] Dragons!

[TLOT] You really are magick Alex.... to think we missed something this big...!

[Steve] Nobody ever looks up! The chickens and the parrots can't fly high, and the Enderdragons don't live here.

[Lie] - So, uh, how do we get around them?

[TLOT] Directs friendly thoughts at them tentatively-

[MA] -Pockets his flute and steps forward-

-The first one kicks a leg to get the second off him before standing up straight, eyeing them all, pausing on MA before returning to TLOT- -Scree-

[TLOT] Hi.

[Steve] Peeks around him curiously at the visitors-

[Runner1] -Softer Screech and head tilt-

[MA] -Scoots forward to speak- 0ei sumo rosuijo 0ei xouht kxo succ, sehhosk? M0 ufecewaoj, ak nuj zijk u kojk. {You came because you heard the call, correct? My apologies, it was just a test.}

[Runner2] -Squawks and pokes head in to peer at MA- Ak xuj rood mud0 meedj jadso no xouht kxuk succ! 0ei doot de ujjajkudso? No mu0 we kxod, 0oj? {It has been many moons since we heard that call! You need no assistance? We may go then, yes?}

[MA] -To TLOT- I explained that it was a test. If we don't need help they would like to go.

[TLOT] Wait a sec. We don't need help but we are curious. I had no idea your kind even existed. We only learned about the raptors very recently. Have you had issues with my Testificates in the past?

[Runner1] -Tilts head thoughtfully.- No te dek mook kxo kne cow nucbohj evkod. Jku0 eik ev jawxk udt eik ev madt jadso cedw kamo. Mejk suddek housx eih xemo. {We do not meet the two leg walkers often. Stay out of sight and out of mind since long time. Most cannot reach our home.}

[MA] ... Hasn't met them often. They can't reach where they live.

[TLOT] Do you have any interest in trading with us? Or at least opening normal relations? I am the de-facto god of most of the villages and can arrange it easily.

[Runner2] -Scoff- Khuto nakx nucbohj? Uj av. Kxo0 xulo dekxadw ev adkohojk. {Trade with walkers? As if. They have nothing of interest.} -Seems highly prideful-

[MA] ... No, I'm gonna take that as a no.

[TLOT] Hmm, well okay. Just know we're around if you ever need assistance. Steve?

[Steve] Oh! Right! - He takes out a sheet of paper and draws a plan for a basic summoner with some instructions and the poem, and passes it Ma to translate-

[TLOT] We are but a few of many, with shining eyes and strange powers of our own. - He lifts a hand dramatically and slides it against the stone and dirt wall. The blocks flip under his hand to pure gold and there's a small rumble as a block on the outside of the wall changes to a water spawn and lets a thin stream of shimmering water cascade down the mountain side.

[MA] -Translates it before handing it off to the Runners, who seem both spooked and awed by the transformation-

[Runner1] No nacc kxadb ureik ak! Vuho nocc! {We will think about it! Fare well!} -Takes off with Runner 2, paper tucked away-

[Steve] I think we scared them a bit...

[TLOT] As long as they aren't hostile, I'm content.

[MA] That went better than expected.

[TLOT] Are they usually rude or something?

[MA] Snotty. They're quite proud of being able to fly. Whatever floats their boat, really.

[Steve] Is watching them fly away - it is pretty neat. I like flying on the elytra.

[TLOT] I think I'll stay on the ground, thank you.

[Ma] Our Elytra was pretty nifty... -Nods to self a bit-

[TLOT] We saw a giant beetle once... I wonder if there are any of those left out there as well...? - shudders-

[MA] Sounds gross.

[TLOT] But that's what our elytra are. They're beetle wings. Like a giant endermite.

[MA] Ours was themed after a CloudRunner's wings. With some extra magic to assist with mild actual flight. ... Well, the most easily accessable ones, atleast.

[TLOT] I didn't think this world had any mods, now I'm starting to wonder....

[MA] Could just be left over code from things that were planned but scrapped. -shrug a bit, like that's an acceptable answer and not highly odd-

[Lie] Has been keeping the horses calm- I have no idea what the elytra look like on CP's seed

[TLOT] Makes a mental note to ask him. - Probably something brutal, like artifical bat wings.

[MA] Cool...

[Steve] It's light out anyway. We should go. -

[Lie] Leads the horses out into the sun-

[Steve] Hops on China and she jumps easily down into the grass.

[TLOT] Carefully leads Hellion down before getting on with a flump of dust-

[Lie] Mounts Beau and follows Steve-

[MA] -Gets on the black mare once she's down safely-

[TLOT] Leads them through a pass and out into a bare rocky area, there are tall peaks dotted with spruce trees jutting up from the small ravines-

[Lie] - So MA, do you think there might be anything else from your seed here?

[MA] ... More dinosaurs?

[MA] Seems likely, maybe?

-Eventually they head down into some rather dense spruce forests dotted with hunks of mossy cobble. -

[TLOT] It's somewhere in here, they told me there's a little fortress. Watch out for zombies though. It's pretty shadowy under these trees.

[Lie] Shudders a little- I don't think the tree's will be a problem for long...

[MA] I can provide light Ifn' ya want?

[TLOT] We're looking for a bare spot anyway. - he's sniffing for any fire smell-

[Beau] Snorts and prances a little-

[Lie] - Easy boy

[Steve] I see light! - Leads them to a break in the trees-

-The clearing is scorched but the grass is swiftly retaking the burnt ground. There's a shell of a structure and the remnants of bloodstains on the stones.

[MA] ... Yikes..

[Lie] - The foliage...

[TLOT] Dismounts and feels around for any code traces or lingering feelings.

[Lie] - TLOT... This place...

[Steve] Ma? You said something about coding? Can you search for code traces?

[TLOT] Holds his arms with a sudden cold - I can feel it....

[MA] I.. Am not as skilled at it as Kraz was... -Hesitant look-

[TLOT] Slagathor is dead... And in a way that's preventing a respawn. He was horrible and won't be missed, but still... His murder was sudden and in cold blood.

[Lie] - I can feel it's echoes in what remains of the foliage...

[TLOT] I smell... something... that frightens me... Lie? I wonder if the world has made me... - his voice is barely a whisper- another NOTCH as well...?

[Steve] Hisses angrilly-

[MA] -Just waving staff a bit. The crystal at the end is glowing softly.-

[TLOT] Walks back to them, he's obviously shaking. - we should go...

[Lie] - As much as I hate it, it may be the case...

[Steve] We'll come back with others and search. We shouldn't face it without a group. Just in case.

[MA] ... -Head tilt and nod- -Stow staff-

[Lie] - Wait just a moment- She begins concentrating and begins replenishing the foliage around them

[Steve] Holds TLOT - Thank you Lie, that looks better.

[TLOT and Steve] Mount up -

[TLOT] We'll leave through the wild. I can't face the others like this... I need time to think.

[Lie] - Understood

[MA] ... Fine by me.

[Doc] Is crawling all over a gigantic black structure in the desert while Yaunfen watches. Xe's making all kinds of adjustments and adding black blocks here and there.

[Yaunfen] Is watching a flitter flit around-

[Gambet] -Stalking along looking at things, Alan on his back between his wings-

[Gambet] -Happens to come across Doc and Yaunfen and tilts his head, slinking up to look at it-

[Doc] Is in hir own dragon form because the construction is so large and making curly things on the end of a long protrusion-

[Yaunfen] - Mada look!

[Gambet] -Nudges Alan so the hatchling holds on and takes to the air, flying around it and examining it with a critical eye-

[Doc] Hmm? Oh. It's you guys. Hi.

[Alan] -Chirp-

[Gambet] -Grunt and continue flying before landing.-

[Doc] Scuttles over to the front of the thing and adds a bunch of bright chips of quartz for eyes.

[Gambet] -Tucks front paws under chin as he sits, watching Doc work-

[Alan] -Slides off Gambet's back and flops into the sand, trying to mimic their dad's pose-

[Doc] Something on your mind? - Xe starts breaking off chips of black smoked glass for claws-

[Gambet] Not yet. Just watching.

[Yaunfen] Scoots closer to Alan- Play?

[Doc] Is watching the little ones closely with one eye.-

[Alan] -Huffs at Yaunfen a bit, head tilting.-

[Doc] Sits against the construction with a block of gray cement and nervously twists it into some horns before sticking them on too.

[Gambet] -Eyes narrow and he huffs some smoke out- ....What are you doing?

[Doc] Making a rather large dragon, just for funsies.

[Gambet] -Soft huff of disgust- Pointless.

[Doc] Bite me. It's a present for a friend.

[Yaunfen] Nudges Alan a little-

[Gambet] A statue? What is the use?

[Alan] -Sqauwk and wiggle under Gambet's leg to get away-

[Gambet] -Turns head and lowers it to Yaunfen- Do not touch Alandrine. It has sensory problems. Much thanks. -Turns head back to Doc-

[Doc] - canny and guarded- She asked for it. Aww. What's wrong with your baby? Do they need help?

[Yaunfen] - They sick like Ashe?

[Doc] Or Brogon.... We have some experience with differently abled dragons.

[Gambet] Who asks for a statue? Can't they just make it?

[Alan] -Pops head out from under Gambet's leg to look around-

[Gambet] Not sure. It just wigs out at contact and weird textures... -Licks Alan's head-

[Alan] -Scree- -Retract back under leg-

[Yaunfen] - Ashe was super weak... And he has goggles!

[Doc] Nope. My skill is special. And that's interesting. Do they speak at all? And Ashe was born effectively blind.

[Doc] Lays out a great quantity of black wool and melts it out into the flat shape of a wing.

[Gambet] It does, occasionally. Alan can understand most things spoken to it. It talks when it wants to.

[Doc] Hmm... I might be able to help. I've got a lot of things with me today. - Xe settles down for a minute and pulls a few things from hir inventory, skimming pixels off here and there. The result looks like a paint chip sampler on a squared off ring. The bits are all different textures, paper, leather, fur, feathers, a chip of metal and another of wood, and even a small hunk of stone. - Something to play with at least. - Holds it out on one claw.

[Yaunfen] - I give!- They take it and brings it over to Alan

[Gambet] -Eyes it and Yaunfen for a second before raising the leg Alan is hiding under-

[Alan] -Squeaks softly and looks at Yaunfen and the ring of materials-

[Yaunfen] Nudges it closer-

[Alan] -Leans forward and reluctantly taking it. They feel the objects on it quietly-

[Yaunfen] Looks back at Doc happily-

[Doc] There you go, all yours. And good job kiddo, very helpful.

[Doc] Is from being outside for a long time perhaps? Living in the void between seeds seems to take its toll on people.

[Alan] -Mouths a few textures-

[Gambet] Possibly.

[Doc] Lays out a second wing- are they bothered by sounds as well? It's pretty quiet out there.

[Gambet] -Eyes the wings with disdain- .. No, I talked far more than enough for it.

[Doc] Well that's good at least. We seem to have decently long periods of quiet punctuated by the occasional explosion. Or just Cp yelling his head off.

[Yaunfen] - Big fire! Big fire!

[Gambet] CP?

[Doc] He's a creepypasta Herobrine. One of the most powerful brines here. He can put people to sleep with a word and kill them in their dreams. He's also a lethal fighter- Xe takes out one of Lie's cold flowers and starts shaking the little flakes of snow onto the black wings to make stars.

[Gambet] Ah. Sounds like a threat. Why keep such a dangerous entity here? What if it goes... Feral.

[Doc] Love. He's a decent friend most of the time. And his wife keeps him nicely in check. - Xe shakes the flower at the chest of the statue as well and then does the same for the tail-

[Gambet] Love is such a frail thing to believe in. -Scoffs a bit-

[Doc] Then you know nothing about Herobrines. Our mates are our lives. A blow in anger from the mate of a brine can carry ten times the normal damage and may not heal at all. And losing our loves can actually kill us.

[Yaunfen] - No! Mada stay alive!

[Gambet] ... Pathetic. Such a flaw is unacceptable. To leave your wellbeing to someone else like that? A single spat would kill you where I'm from. -Snuff and turn head to check on Alan-

[Doc] Gives Yaunfen a soft smile. - I don't think your mom would ever hurt me intentionally. - Turns to the other dragon- If you think a loved one is not worth trusting, then I guess it's better that you are alone. - Xe grabs the wings with a bit of a huff.

[Gambet] I saved Mine's life, and was Banished for it. -Sneer and get up- It is a waste of time.

[Alan] -Looks up at Gambet as they're scooped up- Rrrrr!

[Gambet] -Tucks Alan between his wings with a huff-

[Doc] That's unfortunate, but not how everyone is. - Xe types into the chat with one claw- Hey Gem, meet me by the shrine, I have a present for you-

[Gem] -flies over quickly she is soon flying over head before she lands softly in the sand-

[Gambet] -Stares at Gem a bit-

[Doc] All done! Any suggestions?

[gem] no it looks amazing thank you doc

[Doc] Beams- Is your inventory mostly empty? It ended up kinda big...

[gem] yes actually I just emptied it earlier today because it was so full

[Yaunfen] - This Gambet! He has Alan!

[Doc] Thumbs a claw at Gem, Gambet, Alan? This is Gem.

[Alan] -Trill-

[gem] it's nice to meet you two

[Doc] You're gonna bumble around at first, that's normal, just take the long way home so you can practice walking. PLEASE, walk first. And if you're going to try and fly, get someone who actually has wings to tutor you so you don't break your neck! One big pair is way different then one big and one small pair.

[Gambet] -Watching them talk-

[Yaunfen] - Fly! Fly!

[Doc] wistful look. - I'll take you for a ride when we're done.

[gem] I figured it would be a major adjustment

[Doc] It's weird walking on all fours anyway. I did a lot of stumbling around. - hops on top of the staue and starts knocking the sand out from under it-

[gem] so expect to fall on my face a bunch of time got it

[Doc] Yep. Especially since you're going to have this rack of horns, it's impressive, but it's going to throw off your balance a bit. - Is almost done removing the layer of sand.

[Yaunfen] Decides to roll in the sand-

[gem] so I put it in my inventory then what?

[Doc] Gets down again and shoves the structure from the side so it falls over with a huge flop like a giant stuffed animal. - You just stick the whole thing in your chestplate slot. When you want to change back, just take it off. It won't go back in your inventory though, it'll just be an icon to the side of your sprite picture in your inventory menu. You can just tap to equipt it then.

[Gem] -put the stuffed dragon it in her inventory before equipping it and flopping because she isn't use to standing on all fours-

[Doc] Small chuckle. - Its kinda like suddenly gaining a chunk isn't it?

[Gambet] -Real slow eye narrow-

[Yaunfen] Squeaks and moves out of the way- Fuck!

[gem] one hundred percent doc it does feel like I gained a chunk

[Doc] Giggles at Yaunfen and loafs happily. - Try walking a bit and keep your wings close for now.

[Gambet] ...Disgusting. -Turns and stalks off-

[Doc] At Gambet - What's your problem? Does it just piss you off to see people happy?

[gem] -keeps her wings close and gets up to stand and walk a little having trouble walking on four legs-

[Gambet] You wear a skin that does not belong to you.

[Doc] Of course it belongs to her, I just made it for her. It is unique.

[Yaunfen] Is running around sniffing Gem-

[Gambet] She is not a dragon. It is not hers.

[Doc] But she wanted to be. There's nothing wrong with me obliging her.

[Yaunfen] - I have human form!

[gem] -is trying to walk but falls on her side-

[Doc] Gets up and goes alongside her to push her back up- Just go easy. Thankfully sand is soft to fall on.

[Gem] thanks doc -keeps trying to walk-

[Doc] You should have seen how many times Deerheart thumped her bigger antlers on stuff...

[gem] I bet a million

[Doc] Smiles fondly - She's a bit clumsy anyway. Thank goodness shes durable. - Try not to drag your tail, it'll make you more likely to trip-

[Gem] -picks up her tail and is trying to keep her balance-

[Doc] Your claws turned out all shiny. I used snow for the stars too.

[gem] -is sticking her tongue out in concentration-

[Gambet] -Stares at them a bit, looking unnerved-

[Doc] Shoots him a look- what?

[Yaunfen] - Run run!

[Gambet] It's so... wrong, that you do this.

[Doc] I think we should walk some more first sweetie. And that's a bit judgemental. I'm a Herobrine. We're a creative force. The world gets too static without us. You're not some kind of weirdo purist are you?

[Gambet] It is not yours to be. You are not a dragon. -Head tilt- Just like I am not you.

[Doc] Nope. I don't have to be. I'm not even human. I'm myself.

[Gem] -flops forward before getting back up and trying again-

[Doc] Helps Gem- Take it slow...

[Gem] this will take some time to get use to -is trying to walk slowly-

[Doc] Kindly- It's okay. I've no shortage of potions and poultices for bruises.

[Gambet] -soft huff-

[Doc] You might think of it differently if you needed some kind of change. I can fix just about anything.

[Yaunfen] - Mada makes things better!

[Doc] Beams proudly- From the mouths of children comes truth. Most of the beings who dwell here have come to me at one point or another for healing, and I'm glad to provide it. - Flips hir tail fluff a little

-A shadow passes overhead-

[gem] you still helped me when I couldn't be out in the sun and when you gave me my wings back which I can't thank you enough

[Gambet] ... I see.

[Doc] Flips hir mane a little. - I love helping people. It makes them happy and I get to feel useful too. It makes me sad when Herobrine's live to wreck things. It's just wasted potential.

[Yaunfen] - Mada! Up! Up!

[Doc] Looks up and makes an eyewatering contortion to shade hir eyes with a paw- Endrea?

[Endrea] Comes closer, noticing the new dragon and landing on the sand- And what is going on now?

[Doc] I spitefuly offered Gem a dragon form in front of Dn to infuriate him and she took me up on it. It took me a while to get to it. I've been so busy.

[gem] hi endrea -flops-

[Endrea] - I see, are you doing alright Gem?

[gem] -on the ground- i'm good just give me a sec this is hard to walk so far but to be fair I am not use to it yet

[Endrea] - Would you like some help?

[Doc] I was hoping you'd say that. - Xe wiggles hir spirals- I'm not a good canidate to teach anyone to fly-

[Gem] any help would be good thank you

[Endrea] - Gladly- She steps over and helps Gem up- Lean on me until you start to get walking down

[gem] -is leaning on endrea trying to get walking down-

[Endrea] Leads Gem a little ways away- Don't push yourself to hard at first, return to your other form if you need to-

[Doc] You should practice flipping back and forth anyway-

[Gem] I am going to change back -unequips the dragon form and it disappears and she is now sitting on the sand- did it just get hotter

[Endrea] - No?

[gem] then hmm that must mean I handle heat better as a dragon nice

[Doc] Interesting! Could be a good coping mechanisim for travelling.

[gem] and if it ever become to hot I can change and not die of heat

[Doc] Sounds like a bonus to me. It'll adjust to you the more you wear it too. Stay away from fire for a few days, just in case.

[Gem] got it so stay away from the fire on your roof

[Doc] Yes. You shouldn't be trying to land on my house anytime soon anyway. I'd either practice in the desert or the savanna where there's more space.

[Gem] there is plenty of space outside my house to practice and I am sure eddy and Edward will be surprised to see me turn into a dragon

[Endrea] - Why don't we practice a bit more first

[Gem] that sounds good -turns back to a dragon-

[Endrea] Is there for her to lean on-

[Gem] -leans on endrea her legs are shaky but she is getting the hang of it a little bit-

[gem] I should probably help back home like this can you help endrea?

[Endrea] - Absolutely

[Gem] -starts walking home-

[Endrea] Walks with her-

[Doc] You ready for your ride Yaunfen?

[Yaunfen] - Ride! Ride!

[Doc] Gets down low so Yaunfen can wrap around hir neck-

[Yaunfen] Climbs up-

[Lie] Is reading in her house as evening comes along when there's a frantic knocking on the door. Frowning she looks up and heads for the door. Opening it she finds a worried looking Alexis- Hey, is everything okay?

[Alexis] - Do you know where Stevie is>

[Lie] - No... Why?

[Alexis] - Do you know where CP is?

[Lie] - Again no, Alexis what's wrong? Tell me, please

[Alexis] - Stevies been missing for over a day now, and the server had been way to quiet for CP to have been around as well

[Lie] - What are you suggesting? That CP dragged Stevie off somewhere?

[Alexis] - Maybe? I don't know...

[Lie] - Let's check with Notch first- She steps outside and down the steps to knock on Notch's door

[Notch] Comes to the door barefoot with a small book- Hey guys? What's going on?

[Alexis] - Do you know where Stevie is?

[Notch] No? I haven't seen him since the other day.

[Lie] - Alexis hasn't seen him for at least a day, and apparently the server's been unusually quiet...

[Notch] That is unnerving. It's always trouble when kids are super quiet. But then... I haven't seen any death messages in the chat.

[Lie] - I was out most of the day so I wouldn't know...

[Alexis] - I didn't see any either...

[Notch] Hmm-

-There's a bit of a whoosh overhead as Doc goes shooting by in their normal janky way-

[Lie] Gives a mental burst to Doc- Well there's one easy way to solve this...

[Alexis] Is very worried for Stevie-

[Doc] Looks down suddenly and makes as gentle a turn as xe can manage before trotting down to the ground. - Something wrong Lie?

[Lie] - Yeah, nobody knows where Stevie and CP are

[Doc] Oh dear.... - Hang on, let me see if I can find them.

[Yaunfen] Hi friends! We went flying!

[Notch] Aww.

[Doc] They're in a dark oak biome, it's pretty far away...

[Alexis] - Can you get us there?

[Doc] Of course- Gets down a little so they can hop on.

[Notch] Do you guys need me?

[Yaunfen] More flying! And adventure!

[Lie] - Maybe... I don't know what we may find.

[Notch] Okay... I'll get my shoes.

[Lie] Helps Alexis climb on before getting on herself-

[Flux] - You're heading out this late?

[Doc] Wait, where's Cn? Is he with Firebird again?

[Lie] - Yeah, he really likes hanging out with him

[Notch] I may need to use my dad voice Flux...

[Doc] Pfft.

[Flux] - Alright, be safe

[Doc] Makes a little hot and trots up high before taking off again. Xe goes a bit faster and Yaunfen snuggles into hir mane-

[Yaunfen] Mada go fast!

[Doc] Picks up a bit of speed with a grin-

[Lie] watches the ground below them-

[Alexis] Has never flown on Doc before-

[Doc] Hot dogs a little for Yaunfen-

[Yaunfen] Whhheeeeee!

[Doc] Comes up on the clearing and slows down in a spiral to land- They're close by....

[Yaunfen] Hops off and bounces around a little, a bit hyper from excitement

[CP] He and Stevie are taking a breather under the tree's, both are covered in scrapes and blood-

[Yaunfen] Loudly - BIG FIRE!

[Doc] Startled - Fire? Where?!

[CP] Flickers briefly in annoyance-

[Doc] Oh.... that Big Fire... You two look a little rough.

[Yaunfen] Scampers up and bounds around the brothers a bit- You smell funny.

[Stevie] - What are you doing here?

[Alexis] - What are we doing here!? Stevie! You've been gone for well over a day without any notice!

[Doc] Your loving wives were concerned because you both vanished. did you decide to just get drunk and scrap for some reason?

[Stevie] - Er... No...

[CP] Is swinging his sword around a bit-

[Yaunfen] Mada? Can I have candy?

[Doc] Sure. - Xe takes out a spirally redstone whip and gives it to them-

[Yaunfen] immediatly unravels it and slurps it up like spagetti while swinging it around

[Doc] Oh... did we inturrupt some bonding? Sorry guys...

[Stevie] - I... I wanted to get more training in... To be ready when we face our false father...

[Notch] Swings down - Stevie... I'm really proud of both of you today.

[Stevie] - Er... Um... Why?

[Notch] Because I'm glad you're with us. And the fact that you two were training means someone bent and asked for help. either way, it's a step in the right direction.

[Doc] Also, for Cp if he sparred with you and didn't kill you - tiniest note of bitterness.

[CP] Is contemplating surprise attack on Stevie-

[Stevie] - Uh, well, thanks?

[Notch] Walks over closer to them. - So how did the sparring go?

[Stevie] - Lots of nasty potions

[Doc] Aww. Stevie, you can always ask me if you need healing items. Alexsezia makes good potions too.

[Stevie] Nervous and tired laugh-

[CP] Suddenly strikes at Stevie-

[Lie] - CP!

[Notch] Very loud - STOP THAT-

[CP] Jumps back at the noise-

[Notch] Don't ruin something good Cp...

[Doc] Hair is poofy- You're getting rather good at that

[Yaunfen] So loud...

[CP] - What? He should be prepared for anything

[Notch] Agreed, but he shouldn't be prepared for his brother to strike him when it looks like you've both agreed to rest.

[Stevie] - Weeeeellllll...

[CP] Grins-

[Notch] Please? Just for now. I bet you're both hungry and tired. You look wrecked.

[CP] - We'll be fine

[Stevie] - We have been going non-stop...

[Doc] Do you want some potions and food and we'll just leave you to it? Or should I carry you all home?

[Alexis] - Home, pushing yourself too hard isn't good, especially if it's just the two of you out here alone

[Lie] - Agreed

[CP] - Can I sleep in the bed?

[Lie] - No, in fact if you want access to the bed again, you're gonna have to do something

[CP] - Like what?

[Lie] - Apologizing to the programmers that you terrified would be a good start

[CP] - What?

[Notch] Okay.. I'm not sure I want that.... You'll likely just scare them more. They've already promised to keep it secret.

[Lie] - I'll be going with him

[Yaunfen] hops on Doc and snuggles down between hir shoulders- More ride?

[Doc] Unbelievably happy expression- Yes.

[Notch] Are you sure Lie...?

[Lie] - Yes, but I'll give you time to let them know it's coming so he doesn't scare them more and they can make sure they are the only ones there

[Notch] Okay... - Goes to help Stevie up since he's closer-

[Stevie] Accepts his father's help-

[Yaunfen] Tickles Doc's neck with hir whiskers-

[Doc] Ngggghhhh - Is resisting the urge to scratch with a back paw-

[Notch] Balances him and then reaches for Cp-

[CP] Sneers a little-

[Notch] Stays with his hand out and a small smile-

[CP] Walks right past them-

[Notch] Sigh....

[Doc] Uses hir tail to scootch Cp close to hir side- Get on dammit.

[CP] - I'll fly on my own

[Lie] Helps Alexis on again and climbs on herself-

[Notch] Gets up and helps Stevie up as well-

[Doc] Grabs his belt in hir jaws with a roll of hir eyes and takes off-

[CP] - FUCKER!

[Yaunfen] Big fire rides with us! Yes. - Xe turns into the wind and lets hir whiskers stream out soft behind them.

7 notes · View notes

love-elizabeth-the-3rd-blog · 7 years

Text

Mc’s kitty adventure part 5

Summary: Mc is still Elizabeth

As Seven was playing with Elizabeth, suddenly one of the doors began to open since a security guard was walking in. Seven froze in panic and quickly let go of Elizabeth, who meanwhile dashed out of the door as the guard walked in, the security guard took a while to register that it was Elly that ran out and called the other guards to catch her, meanwhile Seven made a quick disappearing act before he could get caught too. Other wise he would be in big trouble by Jumin and Antwoord.

Mc managed to dodge all the security guards as she ran as fast as she could, there were so many of them? Eventually she managed to find her way outside after navigating the building, panting, she looked up at everything through wide eyes, since the world is much bigger and scarier now.

But she needed to get to her apartment, maybe they’ll listen to her on her messenger, and she didn’t want to be interfered with again. It must have been 3 days now? So they definitely would start getting worried.

She made her way to the road and tried to gage the distance she’d have to travel, which is, quite a lot from Jumin’s. She caught a car rolling out of the building and seemed to have it’s flicker on the direction she wanted to go, she hopped on the back making sure the driver didn’t know and held on as it drove off.

As the drive carried on and on, she could see more building’s coming into view, soon enough she hopped off as the driver stopped at a light, and made her way in the direction she thought was right.

As she walked new worries came to her, she’s so small, what if someone wanted to take her? She hoped there were no dogs around here either, she’d have to be wary.

The heat on the pavement was harsh on her paw pads, or toe beans as Jumin calls it, she started to feel quite thirsty and hungry. She made her way into one long building that seemed to be a hall with what sounded like music coming inside, she looked at the name and recognized it to be a performance theater. She stopped for a moment, enjoying the music, realizing she was panting a little.

Maybe she should go inside? She pushed the door a bit open with her paw and peeked her head in, good it wasn't locked, she could see the actors up there on the stage and the directors on the bottom, but there was a big hall between her and them, so she could maybe sneak in without them noticing.

She couldn’t really see who they were, but she quickly made her way into the dressing rooms, no, not to perv but just maybe one of them left some food behind. The dressing room was just filled with random costumes hanging on the hooks, and she could see some of the performers’ belongings left behind, like a mirror and makeup on one table and some random other things.

Suddenly she heard footsteps and quickly hid under some costumes, a man with white hair walked in topless, he had red eyes. Wait, red eyes… white hair.. she looked up and saw it was Zen, and her hair stood up. Oh my god…

Zen had his attention elsewhere, but… holy, Mc couldn’t help but look at his abs, she got embarressed, this wasn’t how they were supposed to first meet! “Oi, Jin, quite stealing my food! You know it’s mine.” Zen yelled at someone while he put down a packet of… goldfish shaped bread? He left it on what Mc assumed was his dressing table. “Sorry, sorry!” a silly voice from the stage responded, must be Jin, Mc thought.

As Zen left, Mc slowly emerged from where she was hiding, staring at the direction which he had left. So that was Zen huh? She lowered her ears, he’s a lot more handsome than I expected, she thought, he was quite something in person too, as much as he flirts on the messenger, here he has almost an authoritative, determined energy around him, it’s enough to make you stare in awe, Mc wondered what it was like with the others to work for him.

She peeked out on the stage and saw Zen doing his stretches, as well as seeing the other actors stretching too, there were a few of them but not a lot, one seemed to be joking around, but Zen told him to focus, Mc assumed that must be Jin.

There was a girl there though… she’s eyeing Zen while she does her stretches, he seems oblivious but… oh wow she sure is flexible. The director comes to them and claps his hands, telling them that warm ups over and they must get ready to rehearse the scene. They all get out of their stretches and get ready, the woman walks over to Zen and starts talking to him, it seems casual but it’s obvious to Mc that she’s flirting with him, putting her arm on his shoulder and doing one last stretch with her legs. He looks over at her and she looks him in the eyes and smiles as she slowly lowers her leg and lets go of him, “well, let’s begin, shall we~?” she says cheerfully, playing oblivious as she goes to her position, he nods and goes to his position on the stage as they get ready to rehearse.

Tch, typical, Mc rolled her eyes as walked back into the room swaying her tail, the smell of the goldfish shaped bread hitting her and she stopped. It smelled so good, she looked up to it, ears twitching, oh she was so tempted. Just one little nibble right? Sorry, Zen. She jumped up on the table and grabbed one from the bag, making sure the bag doesn't fall when she drags it out, she started eating it and my word it felt like she hadn’t had anything this good in days!

Just then she noticed Zen’s phone was on the table too, gee, that’s dangerous, someone could take it or something. Mc tried to unlock it, but it was no use with her cat paws, she wouldn’t be able to use the little keyboard to type anything out. She heard the familiar ting from the messenger and her ears perked, they were talking on there, she wanted to see what they were saying.

The music began to play and Mc peeked out, watching as the dancers do their thing before it’s Zen’s turn to play his role, the other girl eagerly awaiting for when it comes. When he does, Mc couldn’t help but smirk at the girl’s antics, she has a brief role with him in a scene and had to be told to take it a back a few notches because she was all over Zen every chance she got in the scene, where as the characters were only supposed to interact briefly, her as a barista taking his order, that is it. It was pretty funny actually, poor Zen, he seemed oblivious, or maybe he was just completely focused.

Eventually she did what she was supposed to and the scene was over, the others got up from where they were and Jin joked with Zen about the woman, Zen sighed that he was aware that she’s flirting with him, but he wished it wouldn’t interfere with the scenes.

Soon they came over to the dressing room and Mc quickly climbed up to the top of the room and hid somewhere, watching them as Jin and Zen walked in

“Why don’t you hit that, huh? She’s clearly into you, and let’s be real us actors don’t have time to really date, but she’s on stage with us so it would be perfect for you two! Plus did you see that stretch she did when she was flirting with you, talk about fun in the bed room potential” Jin whispered slyly to Zen, Mc gave Jin a horrified look and it seemed that so did Zen,

“Whaaat? Come on, it’s what we’re all thinking, we’re guys!” he chuckled as he held up his hands in defense, shrinking away at Zen’s unimpressed expression.

“I know but I don’t have feelings for her, so I don’t want to just lead her on for that.” Zen sighed, truly troubled, “This is the price of being so handsome~”

Ah, there it goes. It seemed Jin had the same train of thought as he just pulled a face as Zen said that, seems like Zen goes on about his looks in rehearsals just as much as online.

“You don’t have feelings for her? So what, you two can just have a fling or something, maybe she’s also just looking to get lucky.” Jin shrugged, earning a harsh glare from Zen, “Don’t speak of a woman in such a way, you don’t know if that’s what she wants and even so, I’d rather be a gentleman and not assume.” Zen said sternly, Jin just gave him an apologetic smile “Sorry sorry, I guess I’m just jealous, but may I ask why don’t you have feelings for her? You always complain about being single, yet now you have an opportunity with a beautiful co-star and still no dice, so what’s up with you? Is there someone else you have your heart set on?” Jin then asked, getting a bit more serious and quitting with the joking, god sometimes he reminded Zen of Seven, which may explain his reactions to him.

Zen looked away and his eyes softened, a small smile on his features, “Well, I suppose you could say that. I haven’t known her for long, but I just have this.. feeling, towards her.” he smiled a bit more now, earning a cheeky smile from Jin “Oh of course, you’re always the romantic, should’ve remembered that earlier.” Jin chuckled,

“Well, we better get ready for the next number! See you there.” he left, with Zen still lost in his own world, smiling fondly. Zen sighed and looked over at his phone, debating on whether to check it or not, he made his way over and picked up his phone, entering the messenger. He looked at the chat that was currently open and saw jaehae and yoosung online, but no mc.

He debated for a bit but then put the phone down, he was just checking if Mc was online, since she hadn’t been for three days now, he began to worry. He thought for a bit and opened the app again, sending Mc a message,

“Hey Mc, are you okay?? I’m getting worried about you, you’re missing a lot of great selfies! Ah, but so that you don’t go into withdrawal, here’s your own personal one.”

he then proceeded to take a selfie and send it to her,

“Please come on soon, we miss you.”

Sent

After that he put his phone away and went out back to rehearsal, Mc saw what he was doing and was honestly very surprised. He seemed like a flirt, part of her also wondered what Jin asked about his co-star, she was beautiful and into him, but Mc can see there’s more to him than that, he really was a romantic.

She found it kind of sweet, but she wondered who this someone he liked was, it couldn’t be her could it? I mean yes, he did flirt with her, so who else could it be? When she saw him check online for her, she found it very sweet and kind of funny when he sent that message and selfie.

Among all the usual flirts she didn’t know he actually had a genuine crush on her.

She stayed where she was as she was in thought, processing all this new information when suddenly the flirty female co-star walked in, taking a phone call.

The woman swayed her hips and leaned against one of the tables, sounding very annoyed, talking about how she wants to get with Zen and gushing over his good looks, saying they both would look so great together, since she’s good looking too, it’s a no brainer! She then went to talk about how they could become a couple and her status as a star could rise since Zen has some fame himself, and if they split it would probably wind up in the magazine. He would be a total jackpot.

Mc’s felt her fur stand up at this, feeling very protective that she could of hissed right there, Mc did not like how this woman talked about him, considering how respectful he was to her and seemed to be with his co-stars, and she would just spit nasty judgements about all of them, and was clearly vain.

About all of them except Zen, "Ah~ but Zen, he is the only actor here besides me that's even competent, he practically makes sure the others are in line so we get things done right sooner! Even the director has great respect for him, and so do the other actors. Sigh~ me and him could really go places. But he never looks at me, not in the way I want~ and whenever I flirt with him or make advances he doesn't seem to respond to them. How is that even possible?? I'm good looking, so what's the problem." She sighed in frustration, "Oh well, I'll just have to try harder. There's no chance there's someone else is there? Well no matter, he'll choose me over her anyway, they always do~" she ended the call and smirked, putting her phone away and leaving to the stage.

#mcs kitty adventures

12 notes · View notes