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emerald-amidst-gold · 3 years

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Why have I done this?

So, as per a conversation with @little-lightning-lavellan, I was blessed or maybe cursed, with this idea about Fane. As such, I had to write a short story about it that I think will be like four chapters long because...yeah. XD

Anyways, enjoy part one! (Look at what you’ve done. IT’S GLORIOUS!)

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Anatomical Observations - Chapter 1

It had happened once. Short lived, quick, and barely noticeable as many things were more pressing, the world teetering on a crumbling edge. But it was hard to ignore such small things when voices were all you could hear when one was trying to work.

Solas was highly divested in an article of research. A basic magical theory in concept, minor amplifications of lesser spells, but it still required his mind to bend, to become flexible much like his magic when he had first awoken. As such, he had not heard many people come and go through the rotunda, he had not even heard the doors leading in and out slam shut or creak open, nor a polite greeting or scurrying messenger. That was how deep he was in his bubble of concentration. However, one--no, two voices from directly above were currently making it incredibly, and he meant incredibly, difficult to remain focused.

“I do believe that is my chair you are sitting in, Inquisitor.”, a male voice with a distinct Tevinter accent floated down from above, indignation and slight amusement laced within it.

“I don’t see your name on it, do I?”, another voice, far deeper and like rolling thunder with how it always held a slight growl. It always made Solas involuntarily shiver, and the same remained true now, making his focus splinter further like cracked ice. “Anyhow, it’s Inquisition property. Got a problem, talk to Josephine. I’m off duty.” A sound like a page being harshly flipped made his ears twitch.

A gasp. “And work her harder than she already is? Absolutely not!” Solas could tell the line was meant to be a jab, but it only held the telling of a joke within its haughty vibrato.

“Then I guess you’ll just have to sit your ass on the floor until I’m finished.”, that rumbling timbre came once again, a shifting sound and a loud thud signifying someone’s boots had been slammed down onto something.

“The floor? Me?!”, another indignant squawk, actually making Solas let out a frustrated sigh as he lifted a hand to pinch at the bridge of his nose. How much longer was this going to go on for? It wasn’t unusual for this type of banter to sound, but right now, he had work to complete.

And this was not helping accomplish that.

“Yes, the floor. Yes, you.”, another harsh flick of a page ruffling through the air. “Now, can you leave me alone? I’m busy.”

“Oh, yes, you’re quite busy stuffing your face with tea cakes!”, the Tevinter accent rose a pitch, as if in disbelief at what it was saying. “The crumbs! Have you no etiquette, Inquisitor?!”

“Nope.”, the gravelly voice responded with a heavy air of indifference, actually sounding a bit muffled as if it were eating something. “If Vivienne and Josephine can’t knock the elf out of me, no one can.”, Solas could just hear the sarcasm and roll of eyes in that statement. It almost made him chuckle, but he was still too miffed to push one through.

“Most elves I’ve met are very well mannered!”

“I’m not like most elves.”

“Well, that much is apparent!”

“Thanks for noticing. I’m so happy.”, the tone voicing that statement dripping with concealed disdain. Solas knew where that bitterness originated from, and hearing it always made his heart heavy. Heavier than it already was, even.

“You are a truly stubborn man! Fine, I’ll sit on the floor! The cold, cold floor!”, a scoff following right after those words as the sound of leather and, most notably a body, plopped down onto the stone.

Solas let out a heavy, heavy sigh as silence finally followed that exchange, letting his head hang down to where his chin nearly touched his chest in defeat. It would seem his attention was severed as much as the world’s magic was. He would not be getting back into his rhythm anytime soon.

“Perhaps I should find a quieter, more secluded place to do my work..”, he mused, lifting a hand to rub at his face slowly. “One of the lower chambers maybe..”

Solas sighed again before letting his hand fall back down to his desk with a light pap, eyes absently roaming over the pages of the tome before him. Maybe if he stilled his mind, found his anchor, he could try to decipher this line of text. The glyphs were a no go, however. Just trying to look at the faded lines was making his vision go blurry. Sadly, the theory he was trying to prove was reliant on those patterns, and they were far more convoluted than he remembered. Perhaps more things had adapted than he originally thought? Or did the older methods have to be reworked, seemingly forgotten like so much else? He, frankly, did not know. He couldn’t focus, but he would have to try.

“A ward..?”, Solas muttered under his breath, brows furrowing as he traced a sigil with his finger. “No..it is more akin to a summoning circle. Or perhaps a rune?”, he continued, slowly feeling how his mind began to bend and think, the lines of the glyphs becoming clearer, more defined. “Ah! The outlining symbols are for--”

His musing was immediately cut off, much like the frayed line of his focus, as a shout had him freezing and quite literally jumping in surprise.

“Fasta vas! What are you doing?!”, a squawk, the curse in Tevene elongated between the two words for more flair.

“Would you calm down?! Dammit, my ears are fucking ringing now! Ugh!”, the rolling thunder voice no longer indifferent as its volume rose to make the very stone quake. Once again, it made a light shiver run down Solas’s spine despite his tensed up form. What was going on now?

“How can I be calm when you...you do that!?”, furious shifting sounded as if someone was flailing limbs about.

“One, I don't know what the hell you’re going on about, Dorian!” The sharp snapping of a book making the ravens up above in the rookery flap in agitation. “Two, you can have your chair back because I’m not getting anything done with your needling!”

“I believe you need a needle, my friend! That looked incredibly painful!”

Solas felt his slowly relaxing body tense up at that, mind awakened, but for a completely different reason than trying to get magical research done. He lifted his gaze from where it was fixated on the pages of his book, looking upwards to search the railing that outlined the library for the source of the voices that had shattered his hour of contemplation. He knew them both, but the exclamation housed by one had him wanting to see the other.

Where..? Solas thought the question, eyes roaming every inch of the circular area before stark white had his gaze halting immediately. Ah. There we are.

He would spot that messy head from anywhere, even in snowy regions like the Emprise. Though, the body that that hair was attached to did a fine job of location as well. Occasionally, he would find his eyes lingering, or searching for less...conventional reasons. However, this wasn’t the time to be thinking of such things, especially as his mind still reeled with what the unaccounted voice had yelled.

Fane was currently along one of the bookshelves, a gloved hand firmly pushing a book back into its place with a typical scowl plastered on his otherwise smooth face, the faded green lines of his vallaslin making an already striking face look more so. Solas felt his body relax as he took in the sight of the man, or rather, the dragon.

His dragon, to be more precise, but not in a way of physical possession. It was more fond, more willing than that. It was not a bond of slavery. It was a vow. A centuries old one, to be exact.

Solas almost called out to the other, a sense of fondness and curiosity as well as mild concern invading his mind, but he clamped his mouth shut when he saw Dorian stride up to the snowy haired man with a look of wide eyed fascination. That was an interesting look, and truthfully, a worrying one. Such looks harbored questions, and he knew Fane did not entertain many inquiries.

And for good reason.

“Wait, what? You can’t be serious?”, Dorian said with an airy laugh. “You do that, and just walk it off?”, his tone rose pitch in disbelief.

Solas caught the glint of ebbing gold as Fane rolled his eyes, turning his larger frame to face the Tevinter mage more directly. His eyes zoned in on how the reluctant Inquisitor was tentatively rubbing at his jaw, working it back and forth slowly as if it were locked up. Dorian had said something about something being painful, hadn’t he? Was that what he meant?

“Again, I didn’t do anything.”, Fane growled out in denial, the hand upon his jaw shifting so he had it pinched between two fingers to where it appeared he was trying to fit it into place. “I was eating, and I bit my tongue because you pissed me off!”

Solas smirked faintly at his dragon’s typical usage of foul language despite the way he watched his odd movements like a hawk. Fane was incredibly eloquent, cryptic, even, but when irritation or just general boredom took hold, the dual being was a sailor. It always fascinated him rather than disgusted him. For a dragon, an ancient dragon, to latch onto common parlance as if it were the most natural thing to their being was intriguing. Then again, Fane had lived in this world for twenty-four years without knowing he was a dragon. That, would perhaps, be a more justifiable reason, but it still piqued Solas’s interest. Everything about the dragon turned elf was a point of interest. Especially now, with the way he was still nursing his sharp jaw and glowering at Dorian as if he was trying to work something out in his head.

“I’m sorry, but that was not you biting your tongue!”, Dorian exclaimed, shaking his head with that same look of disbelief before it morphed into a thoughtful look, hand coming up to absently stroke his mustache. “Though...if what I saw was..well, actually what I saw, then I have questions and curiosities regarding it.”

Fane’s expression went deadpan as he stared at the other, the golden light in his eyes all but extinguished as he turned on his heel to go the other way. Solas blinked a bit, even as his eyes followed the dragon’s retreating form.

He disengaged. Solas thought with certainty and familiarity. Unsurprising, but still worrying. He only resorts to that level of disregard when he is hiding something.

His eyes never left Fane’s stalking form, noticing how his brows were furrowed deeply, but could see one of them twitching with nervous energy. Broad shoulders were raised much like a shield, narrow nostrils flared with attempts at dispelling whatever heat had invaded a snowy disposition, partially gloved hands flexed, tendons underneath leather bindings apparent from how much force was behind its pull.

And golden emerald eyes were now fighting for dominance - dancing and bashing against each other as abilities that had laid dormant for too long began to try and enable themselves in an attempt to mitigate the, no doubt, myriad of emotions coursing through a draconic mind.

Solas felt his concern towards the ancient man mount at all those observations, but also, he felt slightly exasperated. The latter was only because he knew this strategy of deflection that Fane always used as his Queen upon the chessboard of his mental battles. He bounced, side stepped, and outright threw a verbal wall up when he did not wish to cross a specific square. It wasn’t that Fane was lying out of malicious means; he was doing it to protect himself and others. But Solas knew it only caused more harm, more warped perceptions.

It hurt Fane, and he knew all too well how much it hurt to keep the truth hidden, even if it was necessary for the long run.

That is the secondary explanation for this flight. Solas mused silently, eyes never leaving the dragon’s form despite his long strides. Whatever has happened puts his mask in jeopardy.

So lost in his own thoughts and the duel of veridium, Solas didn’t notice how Dorian broke out of his look of repose as he noticed the other striding away with purposeful steps.

“Where are you going?”, Dorian called after the white hair elf, but not making an effort to chase after him with how far the other had already gotten from him.

“To beat the shit out of a dummy before I beat you.”, Solas heard Fane growl out lowly, dangerously, and for a moment, he easily caught the flickering of his eyes as they met with his own. He met that gaze with ease, reading them as no other could. The message they conveyed had him instantly seeking more as the shifting of deep emerald had his eyes narrowing in concern.

“What happened?”, Solas mouthed to Fane as he was unable to communicate precisely how the other did without it being perceived incorrectly. He noticed how the man had slowed to keep their gazes longer. There was such volume in them that Solas nearly wanted to tear his own away, but also delve deeper like he thristed for their color bound words, their fathomless depths amid a thin world.

Fane’s eyes flitted to the door that led to the balcony the Enchanter always occupied, and then down, to signify he was taking the adjacent stairwell from there to bypass the Great Hall before he disappeared from the edge of the railing, the sound of door slamming issuing his complete departure.

Solas let out a quiet sigh before nodding, pushing himself up with his arms to stand straight. Well, it would appear he was most certainly not getting an ounce of work done today, and oddly, he was okay with that since concern was overriding his need for magical answers.

There were other, more pressing, questions that needed attending to.

***

#i'll probably put these up on ao3 eventually #but what did fane dooooo?#what doesn't fane do #also it was fun writing dorian! X3 #and solas as always i like writing him #my writing #solavellan #solas #oc: fane lavellan #dorian pavus #dragon age #this idea has been living rent free in my head because SOMEONE put it there!#*glares with threatening thanks* thank you

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vgckwb · 3 years

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P5R: Rebel Girl (A FeMC Story/P5R Rework) Chapter 46: Sunset, Sunrise

On the final day of Madarame’s exhibition, a surprise press conference was called by Madarame himself. As it started, Madarame was crying his eyes out. “People of Japan! I have to apologize!” He cried out. “I am not worthy of your admiration. The artist Madarame is nothing more than a sham. Most of my masterpieces, including the Sayuri, are not my own. I robbed my students of their art, and claimed it as my own. To keep this all under wraps, I intimidated my students, and I sometimes even abused them.”

Everyone present at the press conference was shocked. Meanwhile, Madarame’s eyes continued to flow like faucets left on. He continued speaking. “In fact, the real author of the Sayuri died before they could claim it as their own. I took it in an act of desperation, and jump-started my meteoric rise to the top of the artwork on the backs of my students, who are more deserving than I am.” He continued to cry his eyes out. Members of the press tried to ask further questions, but Madarame had lost control of himself and continued bawling.

Meanwhile, several people were watching the press conference on the big TV in the Shibuya crossing. It cut to a reporter reporting from a desk. “This shocking confession comes soon after Madarame’s home was broken into. The burglar in question was a former student of Madarame’s. However, as part of this confession, Madarame has decided to drop all charges against said student.

Furthermore, a little while after the break in, Madarame’s exhibit was the target of this message; A letter supposedly sent by The Phantom Thieves. This is not the first time this sort of thing has happened. While there are many who still are skeptical of the existence of these thieves, some are beginning to think that such a group may be real.

Needless to say, Madarame has been put under arrest. Due to Madarame’s age, he is being taken to the hospital for a full assessment of health. Once complete, he will be tried and sentenced.”

Among those watching at the Shibuya crossing was a boy in a coat and shoulder-length brown hair. “Phantom Thieves.”

Makoto was also watching. “The Phantom Thieves. Again. Hm.”

Another person in the crowd was Nakanohara, the person who led the Phantom Thieves to Madarame in the first place. He let out a single tear, as he quietly said “Thank you, Phantom Thieves.”

Meanwhile, the thieves were at their hideout. “Alright! Another success!” Ryuji shouted.

“Ryuji!” Ann said. “Not so loud!”

“Sorry” Ryuji said. “But more people are talking about us, eh.”

Yusuke looked onward. “Are you doing OK Yusuke-senpai?” Sumire asked.

Yusuke snapped out of his stupor. “Huh? Oh. Yeah.”

Everyone looked at him. “What’s up?” Ryuji asked. “I thought you’d be more excited.”

“Well… How do I put this?” Yusuke asked. “I’m glad that Madarame is finally paying for his crimes...but…” He sighed. “Living with Madarame, and everything that came with it is everything I’ve ever known. It’s just weird is all. I feel like what’s in front of me is this blank empty space.”

“Oh, uh, sorry” Ryuji said.

Sumire placed a hand on his shoulder. “I get it. That kind of thing can be hard. But it can bring about new good things too.”

Yusuke smiled. “You’re correct. In a way, that blank empty space is much like a canvas just waiting for a masterpiece.”

“I hope there’s room for us in that masterpiece you call life” Ren remarked.

“Hm. Of course” Yusuke said. “I cannot thank you enough for everything you did. Therefore, I humbly request to be a permanent member of the Phantom Thieves.”

Everyone else was surprised. “You don’t have to request anything,” Ren answered, smiling.

“Yeah, as far as we’re concerned, you’re already one of us,” Morgana added.

“I thank you,” Yusuke replied.

“So, ummmm” Ann said. “Do you still want to paint me?”

“Hm?” Yusuke said. “Well, I wouldn’t say that’s out of the question, but I don’t think now’s the best time to do that.”

“Right,” Ann said. She smiled. “Well, if you need me, you just have to call.”

“Just make sure you don’t do too good a job,” Ryuji said. “Otherwise the professional photographers she deals with will have your head.”

“Ryuji!” Ann said, shoving him playfully. Ryuji laughed.

“My, what a marvelous couple” Yusuke said.

Ryuji and Ann looked at him and turned cherry red. “What are you talking about?” Ryuji said, nervously.

“Y-Yeah. We’re just friends” Ann insisted.

“Really?” Yusuke said. “Huh. I guess I’m seeing the world in new ways. I apologize.” Ren and Sumire shared a snicker. Meanwhile, Morgana was frazzled. Jose noticed this and started scratching his ears. As much as Morgana didn’t want to enjoy it at that moment, he couldn’t help but smile.

After Morgana was placated, Jose stopped, turned to Yusuke, and said “So, do you need help moving into the dorms?”

“Hmmm” Yusuke thought. “Well, there’s a swath of police over at Madarame’s as we speak, collecting evidence. I assume that whatever’s left will be ‘my’ stuff, and I don’t know how much that is for sure though.”

Well we can go over and check it out” Jose said, optimistically.

“I’d like that,” Yusuke said.

“Wait!” Sumire interrupted. “If the police are there, will they find the treasure?”

Everyone was alerted, as no one had thought of that. Well, aside from Yusuke. “While I don’t know what on the periphery is mine versus Madarame’s, I know for certain a few things are, and the real Sayuri is hidden among them. We should be fine.” Sumire sighed a sigh of relief.

“So, what’s gonna happen to Kosuke?” Ann asked. “The news said that Madarame had dropped all charges against him.”

Yusuke nodded. “He actually contacted me soon after that, but before we all met up here. He said he was going to move to Sendai to start over.”

“I’ve been there before for some gymnastics competitions, '' Sumire said. “It’s quite lovely.”

“But, uh, what’ll he be doin’?” Rji asked.

“Apparently, another one of Madarame’s former pupils lives there,” Yusuke said. “He’s going to move with him, and he’s talking about this with the boss of his security company for a possible transfer.”

“I see,” Ann said.

“So, what do you think about the Phantom Thieves’s popularity now that we took down another baddie?” Ryuji asked.

“Hmmm” Ren thought. “Well, I think we can get deeper into Mementos now,” she remarked. “But as for what people think, it’ll take time.”

“Huh,” Ryuji said.

“So, how does this work now?” Yusuke said. “Do you have another target in mind?”

“Not really,” Morgana said. “Finding people to change their hearts requires legwork. And there’s no guarantee that the person would have a palace.”

“Meaning he pushes that onto us” Ryuji snided.

“Hey I found one person,” Morgana said.

“By almost getting kidnapped!” Ryuji retorted.

“That’s not the point!” Morgana said.

“Morgana stays with me most of the time” Ren said, trying to cool tempers. “So while he could go off and find leads, he’s better off staying with me in case anything happens.”

“Yeah!” Morgana said, only mostly confident in himself.

“...I guess that’s fair,” Ryuji relented.

“We wouldn’t want anything to happen to you, senpai,” Sumire said, giggling. Yusuke noticed Sumire’s slight blush, but decided not to make another remark, on the chance that it would spark another awkward moment.

“So” Jose interjected, “while we’re waiting, do you want to head over to the shack to grab your things now?”

Yusuke nodded. “Unless we have other business to attend to.”

Ren shook her head. “I just wanted us to meet up to make sure the confession went smoothly.”

“I certainly think it did,” Yusuke said.

“Oh yeah” Ann said. “Did Madarame ever say anything about the people he’s worked with?” Ann said.

“Sadly no” Yusuke said. “He was more caught up in his own dealings, rather than this apparent group.”

“I see,” Ann said. Ann was shaking a little, hesitant to ask what else was on her mind. “Well, did he give a reason as to why he said he let your mom die when according to the Will Seeds he didn’t?”

Yusuke grew more serious. “No, but I’ve been thinking about that. I think it has something to do with Madarame’s vanity. He has to be the most of whatever he’s embodying. He’s either the best artist of the modern age, the most heinous man he can be, or, as evidenced by the confession, the most remorseful. Him saying he let my mom die is his way of aggrandizing his own villainy.”

“Woah,” Ryuji said. “That’s...a lot.”

“Indeed,” Yusuke said. There was an awkward silence. “Well, we should get going, I guess.”

“Yeah,” Ren said.

“Hey, maybe we can find out if the police know anything,” Jose said, shifting the conversation. “Either about Madarame’s contacts, or any possible future targets.”

“My, you’re quite the thinker,” Yusuke said. “Very well. Let’s head off. Until next time!”

“Later” Jose said. The two of them headed to Madarame’s shack. The rest headed home for the evening.

Once the police left, Yusuke and Jose messaged the group.

Yusuke: I’m afraid we’ve had no such luck.

Ryuji: Wha?

Jose: While we were with the police, we didn’t hear anything about Madarame’s contacts.

Yusuke: We did hear some mumblings about drugs getting passed around Shibuya, but that’s about it.

Jose: No name, no nothing.

Ann: Well, that kind of stinks.

Ryuji: Do you think the police might be involved with the people Madarame was talking about?

Ren: As someone who was wrongfully arrested, I wouldn’t put it past them.

Yusuke: Hmmm.

Yusuke: Well, I don’t know if it would have come up much anyway.

Yusuke: Nothing about Madarame's palace was about this cabal anyway.

Sumire: So, stealing his treasure wouldn’t reveal much about it?

Yusuke: Precisely.

“That’s not a bad call, actually,” Morgana said.

Yusuke: And if the police are in on it, that part might get swept under the rug.

Ryuji: So, we’re basically back to square one?

Ren: Not quite.

Ren: We’re still the Phantom Thieves. So long as we’re out and about, we have the power to undermine whoever is abusing the metaverse.

Ryuji: I see. So we’ll be a constant thorn in their side! I love it!

Ann: But maybe we should be careful.

Ann: I mean, if these people are causing the mental shutdowns, and possibly have the police in line, then we’re dealing with some really heavy hitters.

“That’s true…” Morgana said. “Lady Ann’s so smart.”

Ren: Morgana says you’re smart Ann.

“What?!” Morgana said, panicking.

Ann: Tell him thank you. Morgana started blushing and muttering unintelligibly.

Yusuke: While that may be true, there are a lot of people who still don’t believe in us yet.

Yusuke: I’m sure if we can play our cards right, we can use that to our advantage as well.

Ryuji: I hear that. We gotta make sure that they'll never see us comin’!

Ren: We can’t forget about Eris and her deal as well.

Ann: Right.

Jose: Isn’t Eris’s whole thing to build us up to either side with her or fight with her?

Ren: Well, yeah. But it’s still important to remember that.

Ren: Besides, Eris is the emissary of chaos. She won’t hesitate to disrupt anyone’s plans so long as it suits her needs.

Ann: Yeah.

Ann: So the best thing to do is keep a steady head.

Ren: Yeah.

Yusuke: Well, sorry we couldn’t find anything useful.

Ryuji: Nah, it’s fine. It was probably a long shot anyway.

Jose: We should head to Kosei and get you settled in.

Yusuke: You’re right.

Yusuke: Good night.

Ryuji: G’night.

Ann: Good night.

Sumire: Good night.

Ren: Good night.

Ren set her phone down and laid in her bed.

Meanwhile, at the prosecutor’s office, the woman who was intimidating Sojiro was working on a laptop. As she was, the young man in the coat came in. “Ah, Niijima-san,” he said. “Working late again, I see.”

Niijima looked up from her computer and glared at the boy. “Akechi-san. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“I was just hoping for some friendly chit-chat,” Akechi responded.

Niijima continued working away. “Those Phantom Thieves stuck again.”

“I saw that,” Akechi noted. “I believe your sister was in the crowd at the Shibuya Crossing when the confession was airing.”

Niijima glared at him once again. “Do you WANT to irritate me?”

“Not at all,” Akechi said. “Like I said, I want this to be friendly.”

Niijima continued to glare for a bit, and then relented. “So, what did you wish to discuss?”

“Well, I’m assuming that you believe that these so-called ‘Phantom Thieves’ are the ones behind the mental shutdowns,” Akechi surmised.

“I do,” Niijima answered. “The M.O. matches up.”

“Well, about that,” Akechi said. Niijima was curious. “While it’s true that the Phantom Thieves cause a change in behavior, as do the mental shutdowns, the examples we have from the Phantom Thieves don’t match the examples we have from the mental shutdown cases. Besides, why start signing their work now?”

“Maybe they think they can get away with it,'' Niijima answered.

“Well, I guess that’s one way of thinking,” Akechi said.

“And you think that these two are unrelated?” Niijima asked.

“Well, not entirely,” Akechi said. “I believe the tactic used is similar, but I think they’re being used by two different groups.”

“Hm” Niijima grunted. “No matter. Even if your hypothesis is true, it’s still worth investigating them. If they know how to operate similarly, they might have an inkling who’s behind the shutdowns.”

“I suppose that’s true,” Akechi relented. “Still, you are awfully focused on this.”

“Your point being?” Niijima snapped back.

Akechi smiled. “With such a one-track mind, you might not be able to see what’s going on elsewhere.”

Niijima glared at him once more. “You’re one to talk.”

“Harsh. But true” Akechi said. “Maybe it’s time we find some life preservers before we both drown in our work and insecurities.”

“Maybe,” Niijima said. She went back to clacking away on her laptop.

“Well, good night Niijima-san,” Akechi said.

“Good night Akechi,” Niijima replied. Akechi started leaving. Before he fully left, he looked over Niijima once more. He was concerned, but couldn’t do much. He left.

The next day, after school, the announcements came on. Principal Kobayakawa began speaking. “Ahem. Attention students of Shujin Academy. Please meet in the gym for an assembly.”

“I wonder what this is about?” Morgana pondered. Ren shrugged and headed over with the rest of her class.

When everyone assembled, Kobayakawa took the stage once more. “As you may know, recently one of our faculty was caught up in a scandal.” There was some muttering about this, mostly about the disingenuousness of the principal. “However, the school wishes for you to continue learning, and to continue to have the best possible education. So, while we are looking for a permanent staff member, someone has agreed to be the interim gym teacher here at Shujin Academy.” There were some more murmurs. “Please welcome, Coach Chika Hiraguchi!”

Kobayakawa moved away as Coach Hiraguchi took the stage. Students were confused, but clapped anyway. “Thank you, Principal Kobayakawa,'' she said. She turned to address the students. “I know how difficult things have been here recently. That is why I don’t expect to have your trust right away. However, I do wish that for the time I am here I can prove worthy of your trust. I look forward to working with you, and making sure your school life is as good as it can possibly be.” She bowed. “Thank you.” The students clapped. From some of the mumblings Ren heard, they seemed to be impressed with her professionalism.

Kobayakawa took the stage again. “Yes. And thank you, Coach Hiraguchi.” He faced the students. “Please make sure to help Coach Hiraguchi feel welcome. You are dismissed.”

After the assembly, the Shujin-based Thieves met up. “So, your gymnastics coach is teachin’ here now?” Ryuji asked.

Sumire nodded. “Remember that day the principal called me to meet with him. It was decided then. As long as she’s here, I can continue as an honors student with all that brings.”

“You feeling alright?” Ren asked.

“Yeah,” Sumire answered. She sighed. “I don’t know. I mean, it’s nice, but… it just feels weird. It seems more and more apparent that the world is moving without Kasumi, and that…” Sumire didn't have to finish the sentence. Ren wrapped one arm around her shoulder and pulled her in, rubbing her arm in an effort to calm her down. “Thanks. … I think I’m going to go practice with Coach today.” Ren nodded and let go. Sumire headed off.

“I should go too,” Ann said. “Shiho and I made plans for some one-on-one time today.”

“Really?” Ryuji said. “Well, I can’t complain, I guess. Have fun.”

“Thanks,” Ann said. She left to meet up with Shiho.

“I should get going too,” Ryuji said. “I’ve got something I need to do. Oh, but maybe you should buy some gym clothes.” Ren was confused. “I found a good place for a workout, now that our secret area isn’t so secret anymore.”

Ren nodded. “I’ll be sure to do that.”

“OK. Thanks” Ryuji said. “Seeya!” He rushed off. Ren decided to take Ryuji up on his offer and shopped for some workout clothes. After which, she headed to one of her jobs.

As she was wandering about Tokyo, she began to notice some things. The people, the buildings, the sounds. Ren had just moved here about two months ago, but everything changed so suddenly. To her, Tokyo was starting to feel like home. Ren smiled at that notion and continued walking with a spring in her step.

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planetsam · 5 years

Note

Love your writing! Prompt/ask: Isabel & Alex friendship development post finale -- they'll both be processing a lot & maybe looking for a confidant who gets it. & I'd love to see their types of humor together!

Alex almost backs out.

Sharing his feelings isn’t his strong suit, especially not about this. He chooses a group a few towns over. He doesn’t need one that might get back to his dad. It’s an hour drive but he makes it and sits outside until it’s five minutes to starting. He forces himself to go in. He gets one of the paper cups of bad coffee and finds his seat among the handful of people. Most are women. He picked a coed group for a reason, one that focused on LGBTQ+. Which makes this even more difficult. But in for a penny, in for a pound and so he takes his seat as the person in charge comes in.

“Thank you all for coming,” she says, “being here is the first step so I commend you all. We have some new faces, would anyone like to share?”

They go around and share stories, stories that are familiar to Alex but he doesn’t feel more comforted by them. He feels like he doesn’t want to be here. Attention is slowly shifting to him and he’s prepared to just bolt. But then the door opens and everyone swings towards it. Alex stares too. Apparently his brilliant idea to go a few towns away was brilliant enough to have occurred to someone else. Standing in the doorway looking torn between fleeing and murdering someone is none other than Isobel Evans.

“Is this the abuse support group for LGBTQ+?” She asks.

“Yes,” the group leader says, “join us,” she motions her in.

Isobel crosses the room with quick precise steps. Alex feels like he’s about a foot tall. She doesn’t seem embarrassed or ashamed to be here and he wants the ground to open him up and swallow him whole. A flicker of surprise crosses her face when she looks at him, but she quickly pushes it away and deposits her purse next to her seat. When she clasps her hands together, Alex can see that her ring finger is bare.

“Would you like to share?” The leader offers.

Isobel pauses for a second but then she sets her face and looks directly at the woman.

“My name is Isobel,” she says, “I recently discovered my husband was grooming me since I was a teenager, married me and abused me the entire time,” she continues, “also I’m bisexual.”

He has no idea how she can say it like that.

Apparently neither does anyone else. Then again, Isobel is unique. God knows she was more popular in school than Max or Michael. And since school she’s the most successful every way you look at it. When she sets her mind to something, the world had better watch out. And it seems that she has set her mind to this. When the leader looks at him, Alex does his best to channel her before realizing that’s exactly what he doesn’t want to do. He has to be his own hero in this.

“I’m Alex,” he says, “my father was verbally and physically abusive to me because I was gay.”

The world doesn’t end when he says it aloud. It makes him slightly braver as he continues.

“I was blackmailed into going to war and I’m proud, to have served my country,” he says, “but I lost a lot,” he continues, “and I feel like when I look in the mirror, the only thing I see is him. I don’t know how to be myself.”

When he meets Isobel’s eyes, she gives him the saddest, most encouraging smile he’s ever gotten.

“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Isobel says.

“Great minds?” He offers as they get their paper cups of bad coffee during the break, “you got here fast. I couldn’t admit what happened for a long time.”

“Bull in a china shop,” she says with a shrug, “but I have to do this. I can’t be there for Michael while Max is—“ she shrugs.

Something cold slithers down Alex’s spine.

“While Max is what?” He asks.

Isobel’s perfect eyebrows draw together.

“Max is asleep,” she says, stressing the word so he knows she’s not talking about the natural kind, “did Michael not tell you?”

“I haven’t talked to him in weeks,” Alex says.

“What?!” Isobel bursts out. “Whose he spending all his time with?” Alex looks away, “oh.”

“Yeah,” he says.

He can’t be mad. Not after everything he’s put Michael through these past few years. He said that it was over so Michael found someone. Or acted on something that was already there. Alex knows he shouldn’t have left Michael behind. Just as equally, he knows that he did. Now he has to live with the consequences of it. Isobel looks devastated and even in the midst of what he feels, in the midst of trying to share, a part of him wants to shake the answers out of her.

“Let’s go back?”

“Yeah,” he says again.

They arrive separately for weeks.

Some days they talk, some days they don’t acknowledge the other past a quick nod. It’s mind blowing to hear Isobel talk though. She reworks everything seamlessly. He always chalked Michael’s hesitance to share up to his past. But Isobel reworks everything so that if he didn’t know the truth he would never have guessed she was lying. His own truth is hard to choke out. Sometimes he thinks he chokes on it when he speaks. But he gets the barbs out. Finally one day he can’t avoid it anymore.

“I hurt someone I love,” he says finally, “I was a coward and they moved on,” he looks down at his coffee, trying to put his words together in a way that makes sense, “which I know is my fault and I don’t blame him. But when I see him I just hear my dad’s voice.”

Afterwards Isobel walks over to him.

“Let’s get coffee,” she says, “real coffee,” she adds.

Alex doesn’t want to but he nods.

“Look, I love both of my brothers,” she says, “but Michael’s a physical person, he always has been,” she continues, “he’s either going to fight or fuck and since Max is asleep, it’s the latter.”

“Talking about this with you is weird,” Alex says.

“Weird’s my speciality,” Isobel says and points at him with her fork, “Michael likes you. More than anyone else. You’re his person. Or he wants you to be.”

“I doubt that,” Alex says.

“Stop being stubborn about this. You are,” she emphasizes, “he and Maria are cute but—“ she shakes her head, “cute just means you’ve got fucked up things no-one can see.”

“I thought your marriage was perfect,” Alex says.

“And I planned a parade in your honor,” Isobel replies, “things are never what they seem,” she sits back, “Michael needs this group,” she says. Alex shakes his head. Michael accepting help will be a cold day in hell, “he needs SAA first.”

“SAA?”

“Sex Addicts Anonymous,” Isobel says, completely straight faced before she grins.

“I resent them for not seeing it,” Isobel says in a careful tone, “I shouldn’t but I do,” she looks down, “it feels like I can’t trust anyone. Like I have to put on an act.”

Murmurs of agreement go up. Isobel runs her thumb across her finger.

“I’m afraid of my ring imprint fading. I’m afraid of looking normal and not being normal.”

Afterwards he waits by her car. She comes out and looks at him. Alex knows that he shouldn’t say anything, that everything should stay in the room but he grasps her hand.

“You’re never going to be normal to me.”

She hugs him so tightly he thinks she might have broken a rib.

“I need a ride to group,” she says over the phone, “my car’s in the shop. It seems stupid to ride separately anyway.”

“Sure, I can give you a ride,” Alex says, though they both know it’s a good idea for them to come separately. Even though everyone knows they’re acquaintances at this point, “I’ll be by in twenty minutes.”

He gets there and walks up to her door, ringing the bell. He hears her shout and would recognize the timber of the voice through the door anywhere. Instead of pretending to be oblivious, he glares as she opens the door. She motions in him in and he wants to protest actually but she’s an alien and he knows better than to get in her way. Her house is beautiful inside. Naturally Alex thinks the most beautiful thing in there is the one currently fishing in the fridge of a beer.

“I said I’d take you,” Michael says, “I just said I wasn’t going. Besides are you sure the other kooks there should be driving?”

“I don’t know Michael, what does your second beer think about it?” Isobel snaps, “forgive my brother. Though I guess I don’t have to explain that to you.”

Michael’s entire body stiffens and the word ‘kooks’ hangs in the air. He straightens up and looks at Alex who gives the tightest smile he’s given in weeks. Being around Michael is always hard. Always. In a million different ways apparently. Michael really is a miserable liar as his jaw hangs open and he looks between the pair of them like his worst nightmare has come true.

“No,” he says.

“Yes,” Isobel replies.

“Can we go?” Alex asks, “if we’re late—“

“Ugh, you’re right,” Isobel grabs her house keys, “come on.”

Michael stares. For once he and Alex are silent at the same time.

“We’re not avoiding each other,” Alex says. Isobel raises her eyebrows, “we just have nothing to say to each other.”

“Come on Alex, of course you do,” she argues, “you two are in love with each other.”

“He’s dating my friend,” Alex points out.

“From high school,” Isobel says, “and we agreed he’s using her. Not dating her. The fact that it’s gone on for this long is insane.”

Alex has somehow become the driver to group. Isobel’s car is back but he shows up early at her door and she goes. Sometimes Michael is there, sometimes he’s not. They don’t say anything to each other though and even Alex can admit he’s steaming into petty territory. It’s right next to coward-land and borders passive aggressive republic. The mirror hurts and though they are careful to not always be talking about group or therapy or how broken they are, sometimes the car rides can feel more like an extension of it.

“Can you come in?” Isobel asks. Alex looks at her, “I need a second opinion on something.”

“Isobel, just because I’m gay—“ he starts.

“Your jacket costs triple digits,” she snaps and he closes his mouth, “please? It’s black?”

Alex sighs and gets out of the car.

It’s easier.

Isobel leads him through the house. He can hear Michael in the other room with the radio on but he doesn’t want to think what that sound might be masquerading. Isobel leads him into her room and puts him on the chair, vanishing into her wardrobe. Alex almost sags with relief as she closes the doors. He’s gay but he doesn’t really want to know what kind of lingerie Isobel favors. Michael shuffles in a moment later and they acknowledge each other with quick nods. He turns and doesn’t acknowledge the disappointment that comes over Michael’s face. A moment later Isobel comes out in a short black dress that is deceptively modest until she shows that a large swath of her back is visible.

“Looking good, Iz,” Michael says.

“You look great,” Alex echoes.

“Thank you,” she says to him and glares at Michael, “I don’t trust your fashion sense.”

“I look good!” Michael protests.

Isobel looks back at Alex.

“I’m going on a date,” she says.

Alex is surprised at how happy he feels to hear this. Who would have thought he’d actively cheer on Isobel Evans of all people. But here they are. Again her determination shoves her through anything that might stand in her way.

“That’s great, I’m so happy for you,” he says./

Isobel beams.

“He or she?” Michael asks.

Isobel flushes a pretty rose color.

“She.”

“We should go on a double date if this works out,” Isobel says.

Alex looks away. Michael shifts his weight and tries to look casual.

“Isobel,” he says.

“We should!” She says, “that way you can get into the dating pool and I’ll be there to wingman for you. I am the best wingman.”

Alex thinks he’s making some progress in therapy. He really does. So even though it hurts like hell he finds himself nodding.

“Good,” he says, “I’m going to need the help.”

The date doesn’t work out.

Neither does the next one.

It’s not until they’re at the Crashdown that Alex realizes why.

“Isobel,” he scolds, “you have to talk to her.”

Isobel looks crestfallen. It says a lot about the town that saying Liz’s cousin has decided to stay is just accepted. Or maybe it just says a lot about people in general. But if they’re facing everything then this is on the table. Isobel looks horribly unsure and Alex would let her get away with it, if Rosa didn’t keep looking in their direction like she wants to say something. Best wingman his ass. He signals her and she hesitates only a moment before running over.

“Hi,” Alex says, “you must be the cousin I’ve heard so much about. I’m Alex. This is Isobel.”

“Hi,” Isobel says. Rosa’s lips flicker.

“Hi,” she says.

“Isobel is the town event planner,” he says when they fall silent and just stare at each other, “she knows everywhere so if you need someone to show you around—“

“Liz is on it, I’m sure,” Isobel says, not taking her eyes off Rosa.

“Liz was gone for ten years,” Alex says, “I’m sure she doesn’t know all the spots you do.” Isobel’s foot collides with his prosthetic and she swears like that’s his fault, “she gives a great tour.”

“I’d love that,” Rosa says before Isobel can kill him.

“You would?” Isobel repeats. Rosa nods, already scribbling something, “here’s my number.”

“G-got it,” Isobel says taking the piece of paper before putting on her best smile. She types it into her phone and sends a text, “now you’ve got mine.”

“We’ll hook up sometime,” Rosa says.

“I’d like that.”

Alex has a feeling that this date will work out.

Thankfully Isobel doesn’t try to push him to date. Not like she threatened. Rosa doesn’t have any friends. And Isobel mysteriously drops the issue in a way Alex would harp on about but other things come up. Things like his dad. And Project Shepherd and deciding what to do with his life. He misses one group meeting and is late to the next. Even though he knows that the late arrival attention will make him probably be in the hot seat. He still goes because he needs to. He comes in as quietly as he can but no-one pays him any mind.

“We have a new member,” Dr. Delfino says, “would you like to introduce yourself?”

Michael forces his hands from twisting around his hat, clears his throat and looks at Dr. Delfino. At the last moment, when he reaches out Isobel grabs his hand and locks their fingers together. Whether that grounds him or physically keeps him from leaving, Alex isn’t sure. But he works his jaw with all the Michael Guerin stubbornness he knows.

“I’m Michael,” he says.

It’s a start.

#roswell new mexico #roswell nm fanfic #alex manes #isobel evans #rosa ortecho #michael guerin #malex #if you squint #mostly alex and isobel become friends #malex fic

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nevergiveupneverrun · 5 years

Text

Bodyguard - Chapter Twenty-seven “Undercover” Part One

Hello, I hope you’re all doing great. Here is chapter twenty-seven of my story Bodyguard. I’m sorry by advance for the mistakes… English isn’t my first language and I do my best. Here is the link of the previous chapter: Click Here.

I hope you will enjoy this chapter :) 💛

My feet in the white sand. A wave sound that whispers to my ears. A radiant sun floods the landscape… and illuminates a silhouette a few meters from me. A silhouette that I could now draw with my eyes closed. The line of her curves, the smallest details of her face. She swirls for a few moments, then advances towards the sea, sweeping the water with her toes. But a second silhouette is approaching her soon. Then hugged her from behind, and I can clearly see a smile on the soft face that I have observed so much. I look away despite myself when I see the face of this man slip against her cheek and drop a kiss. - Ok, cut! The director’s voice announces the end of the take and I let out a sigh as a deliverance. - Darling, you were… beautiful… the music video will be beautiful… Thank you very much! The overflowing enthusiasm of the director makes me smile while looking up, I meet the eyes of Amelia who smiles also to me. - George, I told you that you would love her… she’s the best! - Thanks, April, Amelia answers, affectionately touching her friend’s shoulder. This exchange marks the end of a shoot… an express shoot in two days, completely redesigned in disaster. Richard had worked miracles to reorganize everything and thus blurring the tracks with the crazy who threatened Amelia. However, he was not on the trip, some obligations with the record company kept him on Seattle. April had been a great help for this alternative decided at the last minute, especially because she had found the masterpiece for this project: the director. Amelia had indeed decided to change, taking advantage of the complete reworking of the shoot to take more liberties. The director had also promptly suggested the location for the filming after having integrated that Amelia wished a landscape of beach for frame… a small beach in Campeche, Mexico, chosen by George O’Malley, a young director in the making who Amelia was giving her a chance, on the advice of April.

The filming ended after a smooth run and under a bright sun: the team was small but efficient, five technicians in addition to the director, an actor, and April who also played in the music video, taking the role of « friend » alongside Amelia, thus combining fiction and reality. Amelia had indeed offered to her to play this role… as a thank you for the one that allowed her to find a director… and a place for the music video. The two days of filming were punctuated by the scenes between April and Amelia as well as the scenes with the actor: a certain Antonio, a dark-haired young man with a pretty face… probably a model in parallel with his acting career. No alert had come to tarnish the unwinding of the music video, the only uncontrollable element was proving… the director himself. A true artist in his way of being: a striking exuberance, pathways of thought hard to follow.

The singing voice of the director precisely reframes me with the moment while I approached the small group, leaving my position as an observer. - With all these beautiful images, if we don’t do wonders… I really have no talent! - Amaze me, George, I’m counting on you! I trust you, don’t disappoint me! - I promise you, my dear! The director responds smiling. I think I’ll get straight to the treatment of the rushes while the ideas are fresh… - I can surely help you George, suggest April. I take a look at April, surprised by this offer and I notice at the corner of the eyes, the same head movement from Amelia. - I could turn things around to make it fit for Amelia, I know her by heart… and I have a more flexible schedule than you, sweetie… says April, finding the look of her friend. - Are you sure April? You have already done so much for this music video, I don’t want to force you to stay… - I’ll be delighted, George retorts with a huge smile to April. The young woman smiles back and I feel that her offer has another purpose than just help George on the music video… but it is probably an impression. - Do you want to stay a little longer then? Because we were supposed to leave tomorrow… - Yes, one or two more days, will it be George? - Perfect, says George. - Okay, as you wish. - It will not be a problem for arrangements on the trip… as soon as Mr. & Mrs. Harcourt leave together, the cover is safe! Says April laughing. I smile a little nervously at the mention of this detail… a detail that April never tired of supporting for two days now.

48 hours ago.

- Thank you, Nathan, for receiving me so quickly and having paid all the details. - No problem Owen, you know you can count on me. I beg you, sit down! I sit on the seat closest to me in the meeting room that Nathan takes care to close behind him. A room immaculate white, without the slightest touch of decoration, a very special atmosphere… neutrality peculiar to this world of special forces that had punctuated much of my life. - All the items you need are in this envelope. I managed to redo your papers and I also provided accommodation on site. I called Nathan after having the agreement by Amelia that we organize the music video in a place other than the one originally planned… to blur the tracks. To put the odds on our side that the crazy cannot find us once he understands that the filming doesn’t take place in Santa Barbara, I availed to seek the help of special units… for us to travel under other identities, which makes us almost invisible to everyone.

I open the envelope that Nathan hands me and I remove five elements: three passports, a multi-page leaflet, and a smaller, sealed white envelope. I grab the first passport and open it gently: a picture of me appears to me, and a name that makes me smile immediately « Owen Harcourt ». - You could not help it! - I had to find a name, so I know how easy it was on this one! Replies Nathan watching me. Owen Harcourt… a name that reconnects me with a flood of memories… a nickname that had marked many missions, almost another part of me… I close the passport and open the next one, that of April… become « April Nemours ». Then I finally discover the last, knowing that it is that of Amelia: it’s her face that’s showing before my eyes, but it’s another detail that captures my attention… - Amelia… Harcourt…? Maiden name Nemours… Nathan, you could not find anything else? - Owen, you know that the best cover for traveling peacefully is husband and wife. In your position, since you have to accompany her constantly, it’s easier. I remain downcast on the context that installs this cover while listening to Nathan. - You know I’m right Owen… I nod with the closing of the passport. He had actually made the right choice, but a choice that was not going to make the next few days easy. I always wondered about Amelia’s feeling… not to mention that my own reactions were not always obvious: I was already predicting that this cover would only make things a bit more complex than they were already… - That’s what I believe inside? I asked, pointing to the little white envelope. - You know me, I don’t do things in half, all the accessories are provided to assume a cover… I put the little envelope in my jacket without opening it. - And here, you will find all the details about the hotel that I booked for you. I choose a luxury hotel: it’s the best option to avoid questions. The staff in this kind of hotels are discreet but also very vigilant about the tranquility of their customers and they systematically filter the comings and goings. I scan the leaf of the eyes after identifying the place, a hotel in Campeche and a reservation for two rooms in the name of Harcourt and Nemours. - Two suites reserved… they are on the same floor and connected… so that April and Amelia could take a suite both and you take the second, without arousing suspicion… as long as you remain on your guard at the slightest suspicious sound… I replace the passports in the envelope and the details of the hotel. I get up while shaking Nathan’s hand. - Thanks for all, Nathan. I know it was not easy for you to organize everything. - Your welcome. I smile at him one last time. - Do you have everything you need? - Yes, no doubts. - Owen, I feel you upset, but don’t be. You did it hundreds of times in the past. Don’t get lost in the lies. I nod my head while listening to my former mentor reassure me. - Well, let’s go to your Amelia, I know you’re not calm when you don’t see her anymore, he announces a little louder while smiling at me.

He opens the door, I follow him, and we find Amelia in the next room waiting for us patiently. I’d rather pick up the items without her presence near to Nathan, in case we had to change some things or improvise details. I didn’t want to put her in touch with the backstage of this world… of this other part of my life. I had not been able to come alone this time, however, since the last threats, I was not willing to leave her at home with the only presence of Richard to watch over her. - Everything is fine? She asks, seeing us enter the room. - Yes, Nathan thought of everything as usual. - All the better, she says smiling while looking at Nathan. - I will have to leave you, I have obligations that call me here. Amelia, it was a real pleasure to meet you. My daughters love you and I understand better why now seeing you. - Thank you a lot. And thank you for helping us, I appreciate everything you do… - No problem. I wish you, in any case, very good filming, Mexico is a beautiful place, enjoy serenely. You have the best at your side to protect you. - I know… I look down, a little uncomfortable listening to them evokes me as well. I look up as Nathan finishes with a hand-kissing to Amelia that makes me smile. I shake hands with Nathan without a word, but content myself with a strong look that is enough to convey to him all my gratitude.

The door slams after Nathan’s departure. I find the look of Amelia who observes me and I read a series of questions in her eyes. - So, what exactly have you recovered? I put the envelope on the table and reveal the contents. - Our new identities… I give her her passport, which she hastens to open. - Where did you get this picture? It’s not the one on my passport… I don’t answer her and she redirects her attention to the details of the document. - Amelia Harcourt… it sounds good! You will make me think to point out to Nathan that he has chosen very well my new name, she says with a smile. And what is your new identity? I take a breath before opening my passport. - Owen…Harcourt? But you mean that… I plunged my hand into the inside pocket of my jacket to retrieve the little white envelope that I had taken care to place there. I unhook it and let its content fall on the table and resonate in contact with this surface: two brilliant rings escape first and contrast sharply with the white atmosphere of the room. And a third more sophisticated ring escapes from the envelope: the ring wears a row of diamonds and two sapphires drawing the symbol of infinity. A ring that I recognize instantly… a ring that I didn’t expect to see again… but Nathan had obviously hidden things from me. - It’s the safest cover given the situation. I notice that she seizes the ring that would act as an engagement ring, to observe a little closer. - They are just props for illusion… you can separate from it when we are not outside… She finds my eyes after resting the ring on the table. - The ring is very pretty… - I hope it will go to your finger, we will not have time to take it back. The wedding ring is adapted to your size. She takes the ring with her fingertips and slips it to her left ring finger, putting it on without any difficulty. - It seems to be going, right? She announces, showing me her hand, dressed in this jewel. A jewel I had only seen on the finger of two women… two women who had counted for different reasons in my life. - Yes, it suits you perfectly… I murmured while looking away, disturbed by waves of memories.

A net of light escaping from my left hand materializes the cover that we had thereby set up, while the ring captures the intense light of the Mexican sun. A context that April took pleasure in putting forward as soon as she could since we left for Mexico. - Actually April, as long as we leave together with Amelia, you can live your life… Miss Nemours… I answer with a smile back. - Besides talking about living my life, Amelia, can I talk to you for a second alone, please? Amelia nods and the two young women are shifting a little further. I watch them out of the corner of my eyes when George’s voice calls me. - Tell me, Owen… I have a question a bit peculiar… is she single? - Amelia? - No, Amelia… I have no chance… no, I was talking about April. - Uh… I think she has no one in her life right now… anyway, that was the case a few weeks ago… but I would not want to mislead you… - Thanks… if nothing is official, I can probably try my luck! Movements are perceived to my right as the girls are already coming back to us. I meet Amelia’s eyes, but she reassures me with a nod that everything is fine. - April, if you’re ready, could we go back to the workroom to watch the first rushes? George offers, showing real enthusiasm after our swift exchange. - Yes, no problem, I follow you, see you later! April launches us, moving away with George. They both leave in the direction of George’s car, parked a few meters from the beach. - Did April have something to ask you? - Yes… well… she would like to have the room for herself tonight… she wanted to make sure it did not cause me any problems… I’m listening to Amelia as Antonio’s silhouette gradually gets closer to us. - So only small detail compared to last night, it will be necessary to cohabit in the same room… I find the look of Amelia within a few seconds, challenged by this new information, but the voice of Antonio rise close to us and quickly diverts my attention. - Amelia… can you come with me for a moment? Although Mexican, his English was perfect without the slightest accent. - Yes, of course, she answers with a smile after giving me a last look. I observe Antonio pass a hand in the back of Amelia and lead her a few steps further to the edge of the sea. I can see that a discussion is taking place between them, first dominated by Antonio’s words, then some of Amelia’s short answers, sometimes even embarrassed, while I notice some downcast and fleeting glances from her. A gesture of Antonio captivates me when his hand advances slightly to lay on the bare arm of the singer… and come and go as in a caress. A cold, smooth surface suddenly resonates under my fingers. And I end up recognizing that an unconscious gesture has taken hold of me as I slide my wedding ring under my forefinger and my thumb… this ring mark of a link factitious and purely virtual, but that I had not bothered to withdraw upon arriving at the location of the shooting. Amelia stands out slightly from Antonio’s touch and I can perceive that he pauses in his words, before stretching a piece of paper that she finally accepts after a few seconds of hesitation. She smiles furtively at him then goes away, leaving him alone… and comes back to me again. Antonio looks pensive and joined some technicians still present, a few steps from him.

Amelia is quickly repositioning herself by my side and I hasten to take my fingers off the ring of my left hand. I stealthily touch my jacket, to feel under the tips of my fingers this sheet of paper that I had placed in the pocket of my inner jacket… this letter of resignation that I took care to bring with me, to reconnect me to reality. - We can go back to the hotel, I think we’re done here. Can you give me back my accessories for my role of Mrs. Harcourt? She asks me in a smile. I perform and slide my right hand into my pants pocket. I thus recover the wedding ring and the engagement ring which she had separated for the shooting… but that she had to hand over to return to the hotel. - Thank you, she whispers me taking the jewels of my hand. She slips the wedding ring to her left hand and the engagement ring on her right ring finger. - Antonio looked upset after your discussion… - His offer took me a little short… - Offer? - Yes… he invited me to dinner. I remain silent, but this information instantly makes me tense. I was already anticipating a difficult evening to manage. - I think he was surprised by my reaction. He must be used to the fact that women are instantly enthusiastic, which was not really been my case. I had a flood of questions that invaded my mind… all centered around you. I observe her, surprised by her last precision. - Yes, well, if I dine with him… you must be present one way or another and I have a little trouble to imagine what such a dinner would look like, in which you would stay in the shade, on a table adjoining ours or outside the restaurant to observe us, she says with a laugh. And then it’s obviously not a proposition that a married woman can accept, right? She finished in a smile. « Don’t get lost in your lies ». Nathan’s words echo in my head after Amelia’s remark and I speak again immediately. - Amelia, it’s only a cover… if you go outside Campeche, you don’t have to maintain the illusion. And as far as I’m concerned, if you give me a little time and if you know the place of the date, I can try to organize things accordingly. She looks at me for a moment and then speaks again. - You will not have to give yourself that bad. Because before all, to accept this invitation, it is necessary that it tempts me, which is not the case at all. I clearly want to enjoy my last night in this beautiful city. And by thinking about it quickly, there is only one solution, I believe, to reconcile caution and trip outside… She lowers her eyes on her hands and takes a short break. Her head is gradually rising and her eyes instantly find mine. - So… can I hope to have dinner with my husband tonight? She suggests in a whisper. Diner. Husband. Two words that are enough to make me lose the thread. I was not prepared at all for this idea. I perceive my eyes grow a little more while fixing her. - Well… I mean… I know that I don’t fear anything with you… I can also spare myself to stay cloistered at the hotel… it is a simple and reasonable solution… no? Her tone of voice is more hesitant as she justifies herself as if trying to convince me. I don’t know what to say to her. I was not expecting this request. Or maybe, I was waiting for it while dreading for it. - But… you can refuse… She looks down, pronouncing these last words. I don’t know how long I stayed silent, stuck on her words offering me a way out in a whisper. An alternative, a choice that she left me and that I had to seize to avoid complicating things. But when she looks up, her eyes are different, bright and so expressive. Words escape from her mouth but I had trouble hearing them, troubled by her look that contradicts her words perfectly. - You can refuse…

Thank you for reading 💛

#greysanatomy #amelia shepherd #owen x amelia #amelia x owen #Owen Hunt #omelia #omelia fanfiction #omeliafics #april kepner #nathan riggs #george o'malley #bodyguard #fanfic

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brascul · 5 years

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What Kamski Left Behind

Previous: 1/2 Characters: Tony Stark, Connor, and Chloe. Summary: “I believe that is an android prototype willed to Howard Stark after Elijah Kamski’s death.” Elijah Kamski? Now that is a name that Tony knows. AN: I forgot to post the second part on Tumblr! Wow!!

“Who is this?”

Tony beams, “This is Connor! A state of the art android!”

“You must be Virginia Potts,” Connor holds out his hand politely for a shake.

“Yes, but everyone calls me Pepper,” she confirms as she stares at his hand. Connor continues to hold out his hand, unmoving, taking no offense to her reluctance in shaking it. “So this is the android you’ve been working on for months?”

“The one and only!” Tony can’t contain the joy from his words.

Pepper glances at Tony and then back at Connor’s hand. She reaches for his hand and gives him a firm shake. “Pleasure.”

Connor smiles. He smiles a really weird smile that Tony knows is an attempt to follow basic human ‘friendliness’ in greetings.

“You can call on him for whatever you need,” Tony explains to her, “and I’ve set him up so that he has direct communication with Jarvis! Jarvis will send him to you if you ever need any manual work done.”

“I have assistants for that,” Pepper sighs.

“You never know when you’ll need an extra hand,” Tony shrugs with a lopsided smile. Pepper sees his happiness and can’t help but form her own smile. Tony’s mood lifts her own. “Just don’t hurt him too much. He’s my baby.”

Pepper raises a brow. “Your baby?”

“Hell yeah!”

“That’s the sort of terms you use for your cars Tony.”

“I’ll have you know that I created some of those automobiles-”

“He’s not a car,” Pepper interrupts. She then looks Connor up and down. “Or a baby.”

“Mr. Stark may call me whatever he likes,” Connor interjects.

“He doesn’t mind!” Tony says in elation.

“It’s strange if another grown man calls another grown man his baby.”

“I am not a grown man, Ms. Potts,” Connor explains, “I am an RK800. An Android model created to assist Mr. Stark.”

“No but you look like one,” she tells him.

Connor says nothing to that.

“Enough of confusing Connor,” Tony waves at Pepper dismissively. “I’ve got tons of things that I need to catch up on now that he’s up and running.”

“Speaking of which,” Pepper says, “you have an appointment with Nick Fury.”

“That old kook again?”

“You’ve been neglecting his calls for months.”

“Why should that change now?”

“Because you’re the leader of the Avengers,” Pepper scolds Tony like a child.

Tony simply huffs and folds his arms across his chest.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever.”

After introducing Connor to Pepper - Tony made certain to introduce Connor to many of the staff members as well. He couldn’t have the employees at the front desk denying Connor any entry. Then again, even if they did, Jarvis would simply comm them and tell them to let him in.

Tony gets a lot of his things in order before he drags Connor to Detroit.

Chloe waits for them.

Tony doesn’t break promises.

Okay - well - except for that one time…

He shivers at the memory.

Pepper was not a person to break promises with.

Chloe welcomes them with open arms. She shows the same exhilaration that Tony had when Connor had first woken up. She circles around Connor in inspection, checking him up and down, and Tony stands to the side to watch.

Chloe then glances at Connor’s LED.

She raises her hand and her fingers gently touch the side of her own forehead.

Strange.

“Did you know what his original purpose was for?” She distracts herself with a question as her hand falls back to her side.

Tony shakes his head. “No.”

“He was created to assist in police investigations. Homicide.”

So that’s why he had a whole crap-ton of features that Tony hadn’t understood. He had been tempted to remove half of them but didn’t on the account that he might have to start from scratch again. One wrong move could be the biggest mistake.

“Why is that?”

Chloe shrugs.

“Haven’t a clue.”

He misses the flash that flies through her eyes.

Tony leaves Chloe’s place after she has her fun asking Connor a billion questions about the way he works. Connor knows every little detail about how he functioned.

He takes Connor around Detroit to see how he’d react to things in person. Connor may have the entire web in his head, just like Jarvis, but that didn’t mean he should miss out in the experiences of half of the places they went too. Tony had the full intent on showing Connor the wonders of humanity. He’d show him that there was a lot more to just being a machine even if that was exactly what Connor was.

Connor seems to appreciate it.

Or, at least he pretends to because he always seeks to please everyone with his weird smile.

Which was fine by the way. It was charming all on its own.

Their trip doesn’t last too long. They’re back at the Avengers Tower before the next evening and Tony does another check-up on Connor.

Then he sees something he had missed.

Small. That’s the only way to explain it.

Deviant string.

That’s what it was titled. It had been carefully tucked into the corner of Connor’s programming.

Tony had no idea what it did.

But Connor? He knows every detail about it right?

“What’s this?” Tony points at the floating screen of information in front of him.

Connor glances over at Tony and his eyes scan the screen with precision.

“I am… unsure…”

Okay.

Okay? Wait a second.

“How do you not know?”

“It’s not something I’m familiar with,” Connor rephrases. “I do not how to interpret it.”

“Lame,” Tony huffs before taking a closer look at it.

Must be Kamski.

Of course, it had to be Kamski. Who else could it be?

What a mysterious guy. Tony had looked over his notes ten times over and still didn’t know more about him. Then again, he looked over his research notes. Not his diary.

Tony lets Connor free from his clutches after a thorough inspection. Once he sees that everything is in order - Tony proceeds to do tune-ups on his suits.

He had pushed off Iron Man for far too long.

It seems that tuning up his suits were a good idea.

Who would predict that they’d be attacked three weeks later?

“I am Paper Wasp!” Pfft.

“You’ve ruined my life!”

Unlikely. “Now I’ll have to start all over again!” Uh…

“And I’ll start over after I kill you!” Paper Wasp was a scrawny-looking man with a baggy costume. The only things that looked sorta-good were the giant wasp wings that shot out of his back.

Paper Wasp, or whatever his name was, (what a forgettable guy) also had a gun he called a stinger.

Tony underestimated him.

He does that a lot. Ha. Damn.

Tony sniffs as the pain hits him like a fastball going at 100 mph.

Don’t cry. Don’t cry.

He flies into the wall. Totally destroys the thing.

Rude!

Connor stands to the side. He glances between the both as Tony lays in his wrecked lab.

“Do you need assistance? Mr. Stark?”

“Stay out of this!” Tony warns. He gets up, wipes his nose, and gets hit by another ‘stinger’ pellet.

He flies back. Again.

“You are injured-” Connor sounds worried. Connor never sounds worried. When did Connor ever sound worried?

“That’s an order!” Tony says because he doesn’t want Connor to get hurt. It took eight freaking months just to get him to walk around. The last thing Tony wanted was for Connor to have some irreparable damage.

Huh.

Maybe Connor wasn’t actually so different from humans.

Tony realizes that he values Connor’s life a lot.

Paper Wasp aims again.

“This time I’ll kill you!” ‘Like you weren’t aiming to kill before? ’ Tony thinks to himself.

Tony watches as Paper Wasp prepares to pull the trigger.

He also watches as Connor throws himself at Paper Wasp. He throws his whole body at him. His whole body.

It knocks Paper Wasp off-guard and makes the man stumble.

“Get off of me!”

‘Better work quick!” Tony’s thoughts are loud as he holds up one of his gauntlets.

Ba’am.

One blast to the chest.

Connor jumps back.

Paper Wasp falls to the ground.

Alive. He should be. Tony made sure it was non-lethal.

Ah - but…

Tony sends his meanest glare to Connor.

His baby. His baby!

He could’ve gotten killed!

“Connor! I explicitly told you not to get involved! When did you ever start disobeying orders!?”

Connor straightens himself and looks Tony dead in the eyes.

“I could not let you suffer any further harm.”

“You aren’t equipped for fighting!” Tony says, disregarding that Connor knows how to fend off attackers defensively. “Anything could have happened!”

Tony was unaware that Connor had already mapped several different scenarios within his mind’s eye. Connor had done what he did because he knew that it would be the most effective way to catch Paper Wasp off guard.

“I apologize,” Connor says. It’s not sincere. Not at all.

Tony lets a tired noise escape his lips.

Connor never disobeyed orders.

He never-

Tony pauses.

Deviant string.

“We’re going to have a long talk about this,” Tony states. He has a tone that leaves no room for questioning.

Connor nods.

Tony does have that talk with Connor. He has a really long talk with Connor as he checks him over for the third time that evening.

Tony looks at the deviant string. Again.

He glances back at Connor who sits like a kicked puppy.

“This might be a bit troublesome,” Tony mumbles to himself as his finger hovers over the location of the deviant string. One swipe would throw it in the trash. It was easily retrievable, certainly, but it was the action that mattered. Getting rid of it meant that Connor wouldn’t disobey again. Connor wouldn’t do something against Tony’s will.

He wouldn’t-

He wouldn’t…

He couldn’t do that.

He wanted Connor to be his own person.

Was that a strange thing to think of an android? It’s not like this hasn’t happened before. Tony has had several thoughts of severely reworking Jarvis several times because of the things the AI would do for Tony. Wasn’t Connor similar in that aspect? It’s not like Connor had any ill-intent with his actions either. He had done it all to protect Tony.

Tony’s hand falls to his side.

He pulls up a chair near to where Connor sits on his examination table.

Tony smiles.

“I’m done,” he says, “scolding you, that is.”

Connor blinks.

“Thank you. For protecting me.”

Tony finds himself utterly fascinated by the expression that Connor pulls off.

A smile.

It’s not the normal one.

It’s so human.

“I would do it again.”

#What Kamski Left Behind #Written Works #Bricksheep #fanfiction #dbh fanfic #dbh fanfiction #dbh #detroit: become human #connor #crossover #Tony Stark #Chloe #detroit become human #d:bh #completed

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prodigal-ezreal · 6 years

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Nach Little Box of Hopes And Fears: Ezreal rework edition.

Let’s open this Pandora box, okay?

So, The Ezreal rework is probably hitting live somewhere at the end of the year after Worlds and the PBE during them, which gives us two months to sit, twiddle our thumbs and think. And Oh Boi! Have I thought! More under the cut because this Got Long.

This is all VERY subjective. Please take it with a grain of sea salt.

Let’s start from the beginning, as all organized matters should: What has Riot been doing with their reworks and Lore updates lately?

In my opinion, is give everyone and everything a place in the world, connecting characters and things that might have not been connected previously and retconning a few things along the way— With various degrees of success. The Darkin in Shurima are probably one of the biggest offenders here. While it gave them a place in Runaterra other than ‘Maybe aliens from another dimension/Old As Hell Demons’, Aatrox’s rework, Varus’s music video and Rhaast’s release never tied their designs or origins to anything Shuriman, from there the whiplash I got at least.

But that’s beside the point I’m trying to make. What’s Ezreal’s current state in the Lore?

Well, Ezreal has always been kind of in a weird spot post-institute, he’s from Piltover but has never had any strong affiliations or associations with the City State other than the place in which he spent his childhood, and now with the Piltover/Zaun and his own lore update, he has little ties in design as well! Back in the day, belts were all the rage in Piltover, now it’s more of an Art Deco thing —which I love— but Mr ‘I could probably go a week eating only the leather in my outfit’s belts and I still wouldn’t go hungry’ doesn’t fit anymore aesthetically. Shurima is still important to his character, since that’s where he got his gauntlet from, but as we can see from Elixir of Uloa, he’s not limited to exploring the desert, and to be honest? he never was.

Talking about design, it’s not that his design is horrendously bad, even if a bit ridiculous for his job (leather is not a breathable fabric), it just grew old. And it could have grown older! But the disparity between League’s current aesthetic/lore direction and Ezreal’s would have grown way too large for a champion so played. That’s why I reason they chose him, and not fiddlesticks or Udyr, for a VU/VO right now.

And here is where the box gets opened: let’s go first through the fears to have hope be sitting nice and pretty still inside at the end, okay?

I think everyone that follows me knows that, while I eat up any and all canon Ezreal content, I really don’t like the most recent approach Riot has had with his art: That Cutesy, Pixie Boy aesthetic that gets in my nerves and is present both in Star Guardian and the most recent World Championship skins. (Not to mention, they have gotten really lazy painting/modeling his face? I’d argue Ace of Spades has a prettier face than SG/SSG). Were his rework to take that direction for the sake of the good old ‘Ez is a girl’ joke, I’m going to be really sad about it. And Mad. Smad.

Not because I have a probelm with Ezreal not being your traditional hypermasculine fantasy male character, I quite enjoy that he isn’t, and if they were to tilt the scales in that direction to overfix the same joke, I’d still feel weird about it.

I think its easy to understand the fear of my favorite character being changed into the joke that has plagued him for years because of the homophobic fanbase that birthed it. My beef of course isn’t with male aligned people who don’t fit into the expectations of the gender, and it’s not my intention to imply that if you like the joke/ship, that you are contributing to your own oppression by reclaiming something they named as shameful— of course not. My beef is with the fact they claimed it shameful and that Riot is Not Woke Enough to pretend like it was their intention all along and they aren’t playing into the vices and prejuices of its fanbase. Let me explain.

Tar/ez or Eztar!c exists only because of the powerduo they used to be all the way back in Season 2, and persisted as an intracommunity joke because people just loved making fun of characters that didn’t quite fit with the usual Male Archetype(tm), Ezreal with his assumed ‘pretty boy’ looks (assumed because tbh no one was pretty back then) and lithe physique, and Taric with his ‘affeminate’ liking of gems. This joke, rooted in homophobia, turned both of their characters into jokes that Riot despite its best efforts because I mostly liked Taric’s rework, shut up, still l can’t completely overcome to this day, when the usage of ‘lol that’s so gay’ is not as negative as the beggining of the decade. It’s not like I think that it’s going to go away, I just fear it’s gonna get worse.

Not to mention! The wildly original, very alive horse that is the ‘Ez is a girl’ joke, comes from people forcing heterosexual roles into same gender relationships which, ew! That and his “Pretty anime boy” archetype, since those are also popular in yao! media (double ew). AND from the misogony that any male aligned person, or in less serious cases like this one, character, that doesn’t fall into line with the expectative of its gender, it’s marked as lesser. You might see this issues and think ‘I barely see that anymore’, which, fair. It has been in decline in the general Internet Population since the second half of the decade, but all of these problems stem from early 2010’s gamer culture so— Yeah. That’s another can of worms I am NOT opening.

TLDR: I feel like the the recent art direction comes from toxic places and I’m fearful Riot is gonna play into that instead of ignoring it.

It may be something else behind those decisions, but this is what my confirmation bias looks like.

Enough of unfounded fears I have now struck into your hearts because if I’m going to hell worrying about this, I’m gonna bring you all with me. Let’s think about hope.

My highest hopes for the update is that Riot plays into Ezreal’s lack of strong links— Not only do I think that it makes sense for a explorer to never truly belong in one place, it’s just easier and doesn’t force anything too alien to his character. I’d really like if they went for a ‘citizen of the world’ kind of deal. Make his design something based on Piltover but obviously worn and foreign, pepper his language with words from Shurima, Freljord, Ionia! Hell, with how big Noxus is, he’d have to learn to speak the language if he wanted to cross through it. I feel like he’s a wonderful opportunity to represent how diverse, yet interconnected Runnaterra is. I also feel like it plays into his fantasy of being a dashing —pun intended—young man who gets in and out of trouble, from adventure to adventure a la Indana Jones.

But going back to Riot’s Lore direction, we still need to tie him with somewhere, or at the very least, something.

Enter the world rune.

‘But Nach’ I hear you wail as I use either 50’s sellsman tactics or early 2000’s fanfic writer interrumptions to catch your attention, ‘World Runes are Ryze’s thing!’

Which, Fair. They are. I’m not saying Ezreal is gonna ‘prove himself to be able to let go of a World Rune’ since that is Ryze’s exclusive thing (even if the thought of that happening and Ez outright rejecting it cos Adventure sounds very appealing to me) I just want him to be tied to the missing World Rune because it makes sense for League’s token explorer to accidentaly stumble into the World Magic Battery.

Also because of the promo, but who knows. Maybe he wasn’t in the Ryze short precisely for that, maybe because since it had been so many years on the making, Ez wasn’t even in the Update Radar then and they just didn’t include him/made reference to him. It doesn’t matter, we don’t know. Time will tell.

Plus, him being tied to the World Rune would make Zoe’s fixation —as creepy as it is— make a bit more sense. If the Aspect Of Change that damned The Darkin is the same one we have today, It’d make her have more secretive, ulterior motives and connect her happy go lucky and childish personality to that mischeveous, manipulative persona we got to see in the Darkin story. If it turns out they are different, it still makes sense with Zoe’s Color story and IG characterization since she can’t seem to get serious about/remember what precisely she was supposed to omen.

TLDR Hopes: Just tie him to the world rune, it’d be cool. Also make him a fucking tutti fruti of cultures.

To tie it all up, I know there’s not much I can do but wait, since I am not active in the forums or the reddit community— but If I could feel in my heart Zoe was gonna have a crush on Ezreal when we got her ig teaser, then I do dare hope.

#i am SO sorry if this rant isnt cut by mobile #long post #ooc #meta #meta? meta

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jerepars · 7 years

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The Con Extended Chapter Notes

Hyperlinks appear in blue (underlined on mobile). The story is posted here.

And now for something a little different. Okay, a lot different. Clearly this is an alternate universe where Betty grew up with her older brother, Chic (he hasn't been mentioned by name yet, but it is him), and his best friend, Jughead. Chic definitely isn't a replacement for Archie though (however, with Chic being Jughead's best friend, the friendship dynamics are different). Archie will actually play a very important role in this story.

This story is based on a fic that I wrote a few years ago in a different fandom (Actually, full transparency, the very first inception of this storyline goes even further back to when I was fourteen, writing stuff about pop punk bands, haha. So if we're keeping count then maybe this is actually the third version of it). I was re-reading that and as I kept going forward, I kept thinking that it could potentially be an interesting Bughead story if I reworked it.

Now, just because I'm adapting it from something I wrote before, it doesn't mean that I just changed the character names and went with the exact same story. The storyline is something I've done before but the characters and their lives don't translate like that into this story. There may be instances where I'll keep a few sentences in the narrative or phrases of dialogue, but it's definitely a brand new story.

In the past this story has been sarcastic and light and funny. And I think I do still want it to be on the lighter side. But it's Betty and Jughead out of Riverdale. So there has to be a bit of an undercurrent that wasn't there before. That's something I'm really excited to explore.

I think a good way to describe this story at this point, without saying too much, is how Betty and Jughead's relationship (if they're going to have one) is affected by their relationships with other people in their lives.

Because he and my brother were three years my senior, they believed they had the right to do whatever the fuck they wanted to me. There were pranks, name-calling, and all the other typical things boys at that cooties age could do to a little girl. I’ll admit I was just as bad. Everyone around town always praised me for being such a good little girl. But to them, I was annoying. Actually, that was an understatement. Everywhere they went, I went. Everything they did, I did. I was the little tag-along sister that brothers loathed. As my brother’s best friend, he took the opportunity as often as possible to tell me that he despised my presence and that I was a constant headache. Even at a young age he’d already been wise with his words.

I listened to Joyce Manor's self-titled album on loop for a huge chunk of writing this prologue, which isn't hard to do because it's under 20 minutes long. The last song on the album is called "Constant Headache", which I don't think would be relevant to 10-year-old Jughead's feelings, but I do think that 10-year-old Jughead would have been apt to say something clever like that.

Although he remained best friends with my brother, I didn’t see much of him past fourteen. I moved an entire time zone away to fuel my own ambitions. Whenever I was home in our small town, I ignored him. Whenever he was at the house with my brother, I would hide away in my room or go for a long run. Because I had the kind of crush on him that meant I couldn’t utter a single word normally without overthinking it or mentally berating myself. He had some kind of power over my head and my heart merely by existing. Everything about him was intimidating to me. I should have stopped liking him then, on those long weekends and school breaks that I was home, because I saw how girls acted around him once he got his leather jacket that put him in a fortress of self. In spite of his sensitivity, or maybe because of it, he was like other teenage boys in high school: bad at managing feelings and relationships.

Still on the Joyce Manor album. There's a song called "Leather Jacket" and it starts: In your new leather jacket, you're somebody else. And it's not nice to meet you in a fortress of self. So while wearing the jacket, the person puts up a front, and the jacket conceals the person's true self. Sounds like someone who could be Jughead, or this version of Jughead that I have in my head for this story.

I lived in dorms all through high school so I could attend the pre-professional conservatory program at the Joffrey Academy of Dance in Chicago. I never had anything less than a soloist’s role in all of the student showcases and galas, and I had the principal female role in the academy’s spring production all before graduating high school. I’d even heard whispers that I had been considered for the same role a year earlier but was ultimately passed over because I’d missed a few months of dancing due to injury. I worked at my craft with everything I had, because it was what I loved the most, so I thrived under the pressure of my life as a burgeoning young dancer. I moved up from the academy’s conservatory program to its trainee program, then graduated to the fully-funded studio company program where I was offered an apprentice position with the actual company that the school was affiliated with, The Joffrey Ballet. It was beyond thrilling to see my dreams begin to come to fruition.

Is the whole dance story thing too played out? Are we overrun with these stories? Are they too common and unoriginal now?

Something that I couldn't part with from the previous version of this story was the dance element. I considered it, but not for very long. I thought about other careers or ventures or education Betty could have as an alternative but they just didn't fit right. I think it's better that Betty isn't a writer in this story. Because it's in her voice, I want her to come off as authentic, just as her, not as a journalist.

I feel like it's not a run of the mill dance story. Though I suppose it's the reader's prerogative to decide that. What I can promise is that the ballet part of this story will always be researched and represented appropriately to the best of my ability. No second guessing. No guessing. I'm obsessed with doing proper background research for stories, always.

A lot of the research is actually already done because I did so much of it when I wrote the story that this is based on a few years back. I did have to take some creative liberties though.

The blockquoted paragraph above reveals that the story takes place in Chicago, and according to Betty she lived in dorms through high school for a conservatory program. In the old version of this story, it was set in Toronto and the narrator (allegedly, it was still fan fiction, after all) trained at an academy similar to Canada's National Ballet School, which is a ballet boarding school with ties to the National Ballet of Canada.

I knew right away that I wanted the Bughead version of this story to be set in Chicago. That meant that it would be the Joffrey Academy of Dance that Betty went to and it would be the Joffrey Ballet where she ends up as a corps member. After perusing the Joffrey Ballet website, it seems that I may be a little ahead of my time on there being ballet boarding school in Chicago. This upcoming school year, September 2017, is the first year they're introducing a conservatory program. The current academics and housing situation offered definitely do not qualify it as a ballet boarding school, but if we're to accept that Betty is an 21-year-old adult in this alternate universe then it must be set sometime in the future, where the program has developed more, OR the program is on the same level as CNBS and NBC. I'll have to take the creative liberty on this one. Sorry. It's such a small detail that won't have major impact on the story anyway, so it doesn't matter. Oh, who am I kidding, none of this actually matters.

The rest of what Betty says is totally copacetic though. The academy has student programs/productions and galas. The Trainee Program is a step up from the conservatory (though having been in the conservatory isn't a requirement for becoming a trainee) and the Studio Company is a full scholarship given to "10 outstanding students selected by the Joffrey Ballet Artistic Director and Head of Studio Company and Trainee Program."

Betty's age timeline going through all of this is like this in my mind: 14-17 Conservatory Program 17 Trainee Program 18 Studio Company --> Apprentice 19 Apprentice --> Corps de Ballet 19-21 (her current age) Corps de Ballet

I'm sure I'm the only person this actually matters to. But here we are.

A running quip between my brother, his best friend, and me is that role reversal happened somewhere in our lives. Whereas I had followed them around as a little girl, it was almost like they were following me since I moved. My brother moved to Chicago (Evanston, to be precise) a year after me to attend college at Northwestern. His best friend opted for the University of Michigan, in order to be closer to his own younger sister. So when he wound up in Ann Arbor, we were all reunited by Midwestern geography. But he and my brother only saw each other once in a while as college students in different states (hell, my brother had lived literally less than 20 miles from me then, and we hardly ever saw each other during that four-year stretch of time), which meant that I rarely saw him. The three of us never had a full-fledged reunion despite them following me to the Midwest.

Despite being known as a school in Chicago, Northwestern University is actually, technically, just north of Chicago in Evanston, IL. The University of Michigan is in Ann Arbor, MI. Ann Arbor is only about an hour from Toledo, OH so if Jughead wanted to go college somewhere that would be near his sister, Jellybean, Ann Arbor would be a good bet. Obviously he could have also just gone to school in Ohio, but if you look at the geography of where Toledo is, it's closer to Michigan than most of the major cities and/or college towns in Ohio. I also wanted Juggie to go to a school that's competitive to get into, which I know Michigan is. There will be more on his eduction, his academic prowess, how he could afford a state school being from out-of-state, etc. as we get into the actual story.

A concerned 21-year-old. That’s what I am now. It’s my third year with the company. In the last two years I’ve come to the realization that I don’t want to be a principal dancer. But I also don’t just want to be in the corps. I do want solo roles. I do want the spotlight on my pas de deux partner and me for a portion of the amazing shows our company puts on. This upcoming season, I have my biggest solo role so far. I’m still in the corps de ballet, but I have a part as big as one of the second soloists. So I shouldn’t be this concerned. You don’t choose a life in dance for the money. I’m fine with the fact that I have to live with my brother to maintain a healthy lifestyle and my sanity because it means that I get to keep living my dream. All in all, things in my life are pretty good. Maybe I should even be describing them as good, without the prefacing word. But maybe I’m concerned because I’m smart enough to know that nothing gold can stay for too long. And there is a problem looming on the horizon. Because that full-fledged reunion that never happened with my brother’s best friend? It’s about to happen.

The phrase nothing gold can stay isn't a reference to the poem by Robert Frost but rather the album by New Found Glory. Ha. Though that is a reference to the poem. So it's all good, right?

I think there are a lot of ideas introduced by our dear narrator, Betty, in this prologue that spurn questions. Like, would Alice Cooper really let her daughter move away at fourteen? Was Jughead a Serpent as a teenager? Where does Archie fit in to all of this? Etc.

My instinct is to keyboard smash and answer all these questions before they're asked so that there's no confusion. But I'm going to stop myself because I think that a lot of would-be questions are adequately addressed in the first chapter (and beyond).

Last thing to address here: the point of view. It's in first person. I don't know how people are going to feel about that. I know we don't see much first person POV in the Bughead fandom, which makes sense, because we focus on both Betty and Jughead. So maybe people will like this because it's not what we're usually reading, or maybe they'll hate it because they don't want a firsthand account from Betty's perspective. Either way, I'm fine with both reactions. But this has to be in first person POV. It just has to be. Even telling the story entirely in her perspective but in third person doesn't work. I want her to tell the story honestly from her perspective but I also want it to be tinged with her bias, how she sees the world and the other characters. That becomes important later on. I think it also plays a big part in the pining aspect, what that emotional part of it is like.

#je repars notes

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dannygrose · 5 years

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Client Studies Module - Exhibition Assignment (part 2/3)

September 29th, 2018

We had our location AND our time frame. The wheels of our operation were in motions and the true example of our “roles” were about to be displayed.

Some of the people in the “Private view/Events” roles were already in contact with possible sponsors and even local businesses to help cross promote our exhibition. All Whilst our design and branding department was beginning to show the earliest concepts of our events visual aesthetic and language.

(Examples of some of the interested sponsors Rae and a few others of the events team managed to procure)

Reflecting on the time it took us to begin producing anything visual to represent our event/its branding was rather slow. Although the production began within the first week on conception in terms of the overall time frame it was actually quite stressful to think we had gone so long without it until that point. This draws on my earlier criticism about keeping to a set deadline structure and possibly putting the theme/inspiration behind the event first and thus the brief and then the brand and visual imagery/iconography first and earlier in development.

As well as the events teams beginning to come up with locations for the after party the curation team were coming up with ideas and solutions to mount and display artwork in the limited space given by our now secured location Castle Emporium. One of which was to use the resources at hand that the location provided. To have our works mounted to a professional standard but what we deduced was that this was possibly too expensive (especially with a budget limited to printing and cheap mounting), the added time restraints and lack of wriggle room for error when it comes to meeting another deadline out of our own hands and finally and what we decided the most prominent issue was not mounting and displaying the artwork ourselves; we later decided to have ourselves as individuals to provide a frame each for our already-printed and mounted (by the curation team) artworks.

If we were to tackle this issue again I believe it would be best to asses the situation further and make the most efficient and cheap decision possible when it came to mounting and displaying the pieces; either by bulk buying uniform frames or even up-cycling older frames and reworking them to fit a uniform niche. Despite this criticism I believe as team the decision we made and the result of which turned out rather decent. By sticking to simple frame of similar styles and limited colour we introduced an impressive level of character to our pieces individually and as a whole/as an exhibition.

(A response email we received from Bett where we enquired about the ramifications of us outsourcing mounting our work for the exhibition)

October 3rd, 2018

By this time we were finalising the agreements with Tiny Rebel in securing their location for our after party after our private viewing held on the 13th. At this point the events team were responsible for also providing entertainment and fleshing out the after party as a whole so they had began brainstorming amongst themselves and dropping ideas in and out of the chat for context and reassurance of quality.

In amongst the discussions of the the after party we (the Location and logistics team and the curation team) decided that the day of set up would be the 12th and if any final adjustments or reconciliation is needed we still had the day time before the launch night the day after at 6/7 pm.

By this date we had the official Facebook page and very soon to follow would be the Instagram page.

(The first post on both our Facebook and Instagram accounts announcing our project and teasing more info to come. Managed and monitored by our promotion team)

We came to many conclusions the same when it came to the visual aesthetic and language of the project.

- The design team would submit work (be it logos, poster art or illustrative imagery).

- We, as a group, would vote on polls and give constructive criticism and feedback

- The design team would either repeat this process with improved designs

- The promotional team would then either rework or directly post or print such media to promote the event. teasing more info and details as they did.

As the event would draw closer, the posts would gain more speed and increase in information and “hype” as well as the frequency of posts increasing to create more buzz.

(Above is the standard Sho Gallery invoice I asked for and received personally from Emily the owner of the gallery space)

(Above is the invoice we received from Emily once we had finalised the dates and cost etc)

With the deadline for the artwork creeping ever closer there seemed to be a real pressure on the promotional team. They were very much at the mercy of everyone, not only, meeting the deadline for their final artwork but receiving enough artwork leading up to the event to “tease” to our audience and getting provided with enough content from the design and branding team to keep them in work with creating digital buzz and physically printing promotional material.

As time grew thinner they seemed to get more stressed and agitated but they still remained strong and persevered throughout all the shortcomings of the design and branding team.

If I was able to re-do this portion of the project and perhaps be in full control, i feel i would take inspiration of my previous critique. Enforcing a stricter regime of deadlines and demanding more “work in progress” or “process” pieces from the students involved as well as the expected design and branding team. In effort to provide the promotional team with enough material to create the promotions and advertisement media they desired/needed. Its a very disheartening feeling to feel like you're giving everything you can within a group project and to either feel weighed down my slacking members or worse feel stunted by their lack of consideration or genuine ignorance.

Once we had fully secured, agreed upon the details and exchanged the invoices it was time to discuss the payment method. This was fairly straightforward and there were no qualms in amongst the group. we each payed and even share of a small amount to secure our events locations and that was it. During this period Elena, Lleucu and myself were in constant contact to ensure the payments were going through and everything was being executed flawlessly, and it was, and it did. Thankfully.

(Above our confirmation of booking)

October 4th, 2018

Over the final weekend before our exhibition there was a gargantuan push amongst our group for WIPs and completed pieces (as stated before) to aid in the promotional material put out by the promotion team.

(Above some designs we had a choice of that had been uploaded using our google drive account open to all the group members)

Around this time me managed to set up our Facebook event. I’ll be linking the Facebook page below so you can have a look at how we proceeded from this time going forward with our exhibition and overall project.

https://www.facebook.com/uswnostalgia/

(These two images were some of the earliest concepts for the promotional artwork and would later go onto print)

We decided to make it bilingual to not only add maturity to the project/event and as well as pay homage to USW as a whole but we had fluent welsh speakers in amongst our ranks and we thought to use everyone's skills to the best of the groups ability.

The next big step we were taking was to do with the curation and promotional team again. Our group began printing physical promotional material with the help of our groups USW granted budget.

(Some promotional material featuring Asia and Rachel’s artwork from the design team)

As for what i may have done differently with the printed promotional material would simply have tried to put it our sooner and possibly expanded the reach other the posters and flyers by giving ourselves more time to spread them throughout Cardiff and the town centre.

What i do like about the material though is that it heavily promotes the artwork of the exhibit and the themes and colour pallets are definitely on brand.

The curation teams job of setting up the exhibition space was drawing closer and so was the tasks that came with it. One of which was, in addition to our individual pieces of work, were the artist cards that displayed our names, and networking information as well as some whimsical or insightful meaning behind our artwork; their nostalgic muse.

To make this as simple as they could the team create a label template (as seen below).

(Below some more promotional material, this time used for flyers)

October 9th, 2018

Freya and the rest of the curation team, including some others from other roles met up to begin the printing an mounting process of the exhibition art pieces. During this time we had agreed, via the curation team’s advice, to supply our individual frames on this day as well so the mounting AND framing processes were complete at the same time to save hassle later and avoid any unwanted mishaps before the final set-ups came about.

Looking back this was very well planned out by these particular groups and although agree upon and followed up with successfully by everyone else in the group, I can safely say this was one of the smoothest processes to have occurred during this entire project and I thoroughly believe that all boiled down to precise planning and the brilliant execution of the roles involved. We could not fault them.

October 11th, 2018

Up until this point majority of the teams had been fulfilling their required roles. Events had been networking with local businesses and getting our posters/flyers into their stores.

The curation and logistics teams had begun to transport all artwork and supplies to the exhibits location.

Finally the promotional teams were successfully created an tangible atmosphere of excitement with their posts and constant updates via leaks and countdown posts. Another great thing to point out is that of their own accord they decided to tag and link all respective artists to their leaking artwork and in return our group was mass sharing the posts creating some organic symmetry between us all and the event.

(Above the USW Nostalgia Exhibition Instagram feed displaying the countdown posts and the sneak peeks/leaks of the artwork to be displayed)

The refreshments for the launch night were arranged to picked up the day of and the promotional and events roles teamed up with the idea of holding a competition draw, the prize being art prints, hand crafted items and other “goodies” to announced on the night etc.

A great way to add another level of thought and depth to the event.

October 12th, 2018

The curation team planned on meeting around noon-3 pm this day to prepare the exhibition and have plenty of time to adjust compositions and displays beforehand.

(Above some shots of the exhibition space just after the pieces had been set up, before the private launch day)

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presumenothing · 7 years

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Oh my god, dude.... Soul mate ask... Can I ask for 23 KaiShi (I'm so in love with this pairing, you've ruined me.)

(soulmate AU prompts)

regret nothing until it is too late, then regret e v e r y t h i n g

this turned out more ai-centric than anything else lmao, mea culpa. scenes not in chronological order, will probably rework/expand later bc i feel

23. the one where once you meet your soulmate, it’s physically uncomfortable to be apart from them for too long.

In most regards, Ai supposes, she could have done worse than having the Kaitou Kid as her soulmate.

It might’ve been Edogawa instead, for starters, and while that isn’t in itself a problem it’d still mean seeing more dead bodies than she really cares for.

(Though if Kuroba tries to talk her into moving to Ekoda again, Ai isn’t going to be responsible for what she does in response.

It’s mostly his fault that they ever met anyway, so as far as she’s concerned he can either move to Beika or deal with the consequences.)

iv.

Shiho has never put much stock in the concept of soulmates.

She’s well-acquainted with the scientific evidence, obviously. Extensive research in the field continues to be ethically controversial, but studies have sufficiently demonstrated the correlation between separating certain pairs of people for extended periods of time and the associated physiological effects: increased heart rate, shallow respiration, heightened levels of cortisol. The evidence is convincing, though the particulars differ, and no rigorous theory of the bond has been developed thus far.

What she questions are the psychological effects people often discuss. Nothing ludicrously precise as telepathy – those claims had been thoroughly debunked in the ‘80s, even if urban legends still circulated to this day – but instead a whole host of subtler effects, with the most commonly cited one being empathy connected to strong feelings.

It seems fallacious, though, to assume that such a bond would entail any emotional connection, beyond the effects of cognitive dissonance working to smooth over a relationship enforced by proximity.

At any rate, as far as Shiho’s concerned, her soulmate – if she has one, since the conditions make it difficult to conclusively prove whether or not every individual has a soulmate – is better off staying away from her, for both their sakes. The last thing she needs is to be bound down geographically, let alone to any single individual, and unless her hypothetical soulmate is in the Organisation as well she doesn’t see how the situation can be tenable anyway.

(She rarely spends time around people anyway, so it’s not like it matters all that much, really.)

iii.

If nothing else, being an elementary schooler means that people assume by default that she hasn’t really thought much about the concept of soulmates yet, let alone had a chance to meet her own.

Ai is more than fine with that. She still believes that the entire phenomenon of soulmates is more trouble than it’s worth, and becoming Haibara Ai has only served to further cement that opinion, if anything.

(The professor had asked her about it once, near the beginning, followed a few days later by Edogawa when he’d stopped tiptoeing around her like a bomb set to explode at any moment. The detective hadn’t bothered couching it as an indirect question, of course, but she understood the intent all the same, as well as their relief when she’d answered in the negative.

You couldn’t very well sever a bond with just a change of name, after all, and Edogawa is very fortunate that Mouri Ran isn’t his soulmate, because there wouldn’t have been any hiding from that.)

ii.

Akemi doesn’t share her opinions, of course.

Shiho watches her sister talk animatedly over dinner, eyes alight with excitement, about an old school friend of hers who’d just found her soulmate, and wonders if she should hope for Akemi to find her own as well.

(Sometimes, she wishes that she’d thought to ask.)

Ayumi and the others are chatting about soulmates during lunch break one day, Edogawa chiming in every now and then with the occasional correction when their chatter veers too far from the facts, when Genta asks, “How d’you even know so much about soulmates anyway, Conan-kun?”

Edogawa laughs in the way he does whenever he’s trying to redirect someone’s attention. “Ah, Ran-neechan and Sonoko-neechan talk a lot about it, that’s all!”

The kids nod, satisfied by this answer, but it’s like a switch flicks on in Ai’s mind – because Genta has a point, and Ai can’t believe she hasn’t noticed it before.

She knows almost everything Edogawa has mentioned so far, that much is true, but that’s largely because she’d just about gone through the existing literature with a fine-toothed comb to check for anything that could potentially interfere with the apoptoxin’s effects.

Even so, Edogawa’s mentioned details that even Ai herself isn’t aware of, and while she can testify to the fact that teenagers talk incessantly about the possibility of meeting their soulmates, as far as she knows neither Mouri nor Suzuki have found theirs yet.

She does at least wait until they’re out of the Detective Boys’ earshot before asking the increasingly apparent question. “You do have a soulmate, don’t you, Edogawa-kun?”

He’s clearly prepared for it, though, because he doesn’t even hesitate before answering. “I told you, Ran’s not my soulmate.”

…Edogawa is a terrible liar. Nevertheless, Ai looks away, pretending to drop the subject as she thinks – it has to be someone in the know, and the answer is startlingly obvious once she thinks about it.

Ai can feel herself smirking. She can’t help it. “So, how is it, having Hattori-kun as a soulmate?”

That makes Edogawa choke on the orange juice he’s drinking, which is all the confirmation she needs. Serves him right for forgetting that he’s not the only one capable of detective work here, Ai thinks with vindictive satisfaction.

(Then, of course, Ayumi manages to convince her to attend a Kid heist less a week later, and – well.

Ai believes in karma even less than she does soulmates, but the irony is almost enough to convince her otherwise.)

The rooftop is freezing.

It’s not snowing, at least, but the gusts of biting wind aren’t much of an improvement.

Today’s heist is the third she’s attended so far, though Ayumi had still been surprised when Ai said that she was planning on coming along – she’d promptly proceeded to power excitedly through the afternoon’s classroom cleaning, dragging the boys along in her wake.

(Ai had ignored Edogawa’s obviously amused glances all the way to the heist site. His deductions aren’t completely off-track, after all, since she is developing an interest in Kid, if not for the reasons he apparently assumes.

It’s not at all surprising for an elementary schooler to be a Kid fangirl, after all, and Ai’s been careful to cultivate her attention gradually enough to avoid suspicion.

At any rate, it’s almost a blessing in disguise that Ai’s bonded to one of the few people even less likely than herself to want a soulmate known. Kid, at least, might not have enemies that would cheerfully take a soulmate ransom if given the chance, but Ai isn’t planning on taking risks either way.)

She tightens the scarf around her neck, grateful that she’d thought to dress in warmer clothing today, and tries to occupy her thoughts with figuring out whether she can gauge Kid’s proximity from how she’s feeling.

As a distraction from the weather, it’s resoundingly unsuccessful, but her mental map narrows abruptly just as Kid slips through the roof access door, jams the lock firmly closed, and turns towards her.

(His cape flares dramatically with the motion. Ai gives him an unimpressed look.)

“Good evening, ojousan.” The magician doesn’t sound surprised, but that means little for someone who isn’t fazed by Edogawa’s soccer missiles. “Should I assume that your presence means what I believe it does?”

“I certainly hope so,” Ai says, her tone perhaps more curt than the situation calls for, but she’s been waiting for a long time and it is cold. “You might not agree, but I’d hate to be stuck with someone of subpar intelligence.”

Amusement flickers across Kid’s expression. “That’s a tall order, but I’ll do my best. Does tantei-kun know?”

It’s a question Ai expects, so her answer comes readily enough. “I haven’t told anyone, but I’d give it three weeks at most before he figures it out, though the sheer unlikelihood of this situation might throw him off for a while longer. Either way, I don’t have any plans to assist Edogawa-kun in catching you with this, to answer your actual question.”

“The inadmissibility of soulmate bonds as evidence in court notwithstanding, I suppose?” Kid asks lightly, and Ai shrugs. It’s not like either of them actually believe that the detective would do anything based on such a tenuous thing without amassing further evidence, anyway.

“If you get caught on your own, that’s frankly none of my business,” she replies blithely, crossing her arms. “Though at least you’d have a regular visitor in prison, if that’s any consolation.”

Kid hums noncommittally as he holds tonight’s heist target up to the moonlight. “Not that I wouldn’t appreciate the company, hypothetically speaking, but if you could consider bringing chocolate?”

Ai raises an eyebrow – she hadn’t pegged the magician to be a chocoholic, though perhaps she should have, assuming that he kept up an active civilian life alongside his night persona – when there’s the recognisable crackle of Edogawa’s shoes powering up in the near distance.

Kid somehow manages to cross the span of the rooftop in the few seconds it takes for a soccer ball to force the door open, revealing Edogawa behind it, dart watch already aimed and ready to fire.

Before the detective can say anything, though, Kid smirks visibly under the shadow of his hat and speaks, loud enough to be heard over the wind even from several metres away. “Looks like you got beaten to the punch this time, tantei-kun!”

Edogawa glances over at her in disbelief, though his watch doesn’t waver from its target. “Haibara? How’d you manage to get up here so quickly?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know, meitantei-san?” Ai quips right back, already turning to leave. “I’d be more worried about your quarry getting away if I were you, though.”

The detective blanches at the reminder and turns back immediately, but Ai doesn’t need to look over her shoulder to know that Kid’s used the distraction to slip away – on his glider, probably, from the vague sense of steadily increasing distance between them.

She tucks her hands back into the welcome warmth of her coat pockets as she glances up anyway, her gaze tracking the white triangle across the night sky.

“Better luck next time, Edogawa-kun,” Ai says with a complete lack of sincerity, and leaves him alone on the rooftop, staring after her in confusion.

(She doesn’t miss the smooth edges of a card in her right pocket, of course, but waits until Agasa fetches them home before taking it out.

Black ink stands out starkly against the plain rectangle even in the dim moonlight – one sentence followed by a Kid caricature:

Don’t be a stranger! O_^

Ai rolls her eyes – if Kid is actually expecting her to follow him across town he’s got another think coming – before putting the card away in her top drawer and locking it.

The feeling from earlier is faint now, not registering as discomfort so much as an indefinable pressure, but as far as she can tell, Kid has mostly stopped moving some considerable distance away, though she can’t pick out the direction he’s in.

The scientist in Ai is increasingly tempted to study the boundaries of this, now that she has herself as an immediately accessible test subject, but she contents herself with the one experiment she can run immediately.

Ai silences her other thoughts as completely as she can, and focuses her mind on one sentence.

Don’t leave your heist targets with me, Ai thinks, emphatically, with all the annoyed exasperation the sentiment deserves.

She’s fully planning to drop the jewel in Edogawa’s school satchel once she gets the chance, obviously – no one needs to know that it was in her left pocket at some point, and it wouldn’t be the first time a heist target has been returned to Nakamori-keibu via detective.

But still. It’s the principle of the matter, and if Ai has no choice but to attend Kid heists regularly now she’s going to do it on her own terms.)

(“Are you alright, Kaito-bocchama?” Jii asks in concern when Kaito shivers, and he can only shrug cluelessly in response – the Blue Parrot is warm, the chocolate in his mug more so.

None of it explains why he’d felt a sudden chill down his spine, unless Akako is up to something again.

Kaito really hopes she isn’t.)

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b2bwebmarketingagency-blog · 7 years

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Ways to Perform much better in Custom-made Lookup

From specifics relating to your area and unit to lookups you might have completed inside the previous, Google now contains a fantastic offer of knowledge it could use to personalize your quest the greatest last outcomes. In today’s Whiteboard Friday, Rand describes to what extent they can be very likely making use of that data and offers five methods throughout which you'll be able to recuperate your performance in personalized try to find.

For reference, here’s a however on the week’s whiteboard.

Howdy, Moz supporters, and welcome to your distinct model of Whiteboard Friday. This 7 instances we’re almost certainly to speak personalization, speaking about the weather which could have an effect on personalization also as several the tactical factors web organization folks and SEOs only can execute to aid you to make their websites as well as their content materials a lot more customized pleasant.

So, precisely what are we referring to when we’re talking about personalization? Nicely, Google is totally personalizing by a sizable variety of factors and very likely, however, a lot of concerns I've not verified correctly under they have not been totally distinct or forthcoming about.

Within the operate you are logged out, they nevertheless possess a real selection of how of personalizing, so you might nevertheless verify lots of personalization. Your final results could be truly diverse from every single minor point you see within an entirely new browser with no getting obtaining spot employed to it, within the special gadget with numerous search for and verify out heritage.

Now, don't forget before long soon after I say “Logged out,” I’m not referring to an incognito window. An incognito window would bias in opposition to exhibiting some point by review observe report or confirm out heritage. Nevertheless, area and gadget demonstrate up to nevertheless keep on becoming intact. So a mobile device will get regularly distinct results than the usual desktop gadget. Special places can get various outcomes than other locations. Everything selection of things.

Now you may concern, “Quantify this for me, Rand.” Like, let us say we took a sample recognized of 5 hundred looks for phrases and we ran them by the use of personalized in distinction to non-personalized varieties of queries. Just what is the particular delta inside of the final results also acquiring since the variation inside of the ultimate outcomes that we see?

Nicely, we did this. It is nearly eighteen months out-of-date for the time being, but Medical doctor Pete did this in late 2013. Utilizing the MozCast expertise set up, he checked crawlers, Google Webmaster Products, personalized logged in and incognito. You realize what? The delta was genuinely modest for personalized from incognito. I come to feel that number’s perhaps absent up, which implies this correlation amount - a single.0 will most likely be ideal correlation - 0.977 awfully higher correlation. So we’re observing truly similar results for personalized in the direction of incognito as a minimum eighteen months even though within the preceding.

I believe that is most likely reworked. It’ll perhaps go ahead to very fairly. However, I might also certain that it virtually surely will not slide that bare minimum. I might not presume that you just would nonetheless uncover that it’ll be lowered than 0.8, almost certainly simple 0.9, simply because an excellent offer of seeking out is intentional navigation and an excellent provide of it's additionally not completely in a position to have personalized in actually intelligent methods. The final word closing final results might be the extremely best results presently. There is not an entire superb offer you of personalization which could be added in aside from almost certainly exhibiting your Google+ follows or some point using the base and issues depending on your go to track record.

So let us say you'd wish to have out a lot much better in personalized seek out. You could have a notion that, hey, a lot of gentlemen and ladies are obtaining customized bias in my distinct SERP sets. We’re very group centered, or we’re truly biased by social types of information, or we’re examining out a fantastic supply of folks are obtaining biased inside their constructive facets to our opponents due to the fact within their look for heritage and shell out a pay a visit to historic earlier. What precisely are factors which I would like to ponder?

The solution is you may be completely ready to have out drastically far better in individualized look for normally, around the total by thinking about components like acquiring possible searchers to learn and adore your brand name determine as well as your area before they even now make the issue. It appears that if you could have gotten people on the website ahead of by the use of other variations of navigation and via lookups, you could extremely appropriately observe down yourself-greater up in people’s custom-made results obtaining a consequence in the straightforward fact they frequented you within of the prior. We tend not to know each one from your metrics that go into that or what especially Google utilizes, but we could surmise you will find most likely some bars about engagement, look into out historic prior, what volume of moments, how often inside of a specified time-frame, practically almost everything range of things that goes into that seek out and analyze out historic earlier.

Also, need to you can bias folks outlined listed here and rank greater, you could be getting considerably way more too as significantly much more obtain. It would be considered a snowball result. As a result, if you keep exhibiting up elevated within their rankings, they preserve clicking you, they sustain discovering particulars that are worthwhile, they truly don't have to return to the study last results and click on any individual else. You're just very likely to help hold the situation in added and likewise considerably a lot more in their queries given that they find out objects. For virtually any particular person of you who're complete funnel sorts of resources servers, you happen to be thinking of fellas and girls as they are executing examination and educating by themselves personalized all of the way all the way down to the transaction phase with their queries, this might be a fascinating chance.

For place bias, you want to make certain that you may be associated in every single solitary in the spots in your group or your assistance. An entire excellent offer of times which means acquiring registered with Google Maps and Google+ nearby agency for maps - I simply can don't forget what it is identified as especially. I truly feel it truly is Google+ Neighborhood for Group - and creating certain you could be not merely registered with people areas, but then also the content material helps to provide the places that you just offer. Regularly that could even imply a bigger radius than what Google Maps may provide you with. You can rank effectively outside the house your home of one's respective specified geographies with content material supplies that serves individuals locations, no matter if Google is simply not flawlessly place connecting you utilizing your deal with or your Maps registration, these versions of variables.

Buying try to find expression concentrating on dialed in, that's essential continuously. By way of which a complete good deal of folks tumbles down on this is that they genuinely truly feel, “Hey, I only must be worried about research phase concentrating on within the web pages which may be solely meant to study landing web pages. I’m trying to get lookup site visitors to these web pages.” But personalization bias signifies that within the function that you could get essential term concentrating on dialed in however on web content that is not always looking for landing internet web internet pages, Google could say, “Hey, this would not usually rank for anyone, but as a result of the fact you've got acquired beforehand attained that experienced website guests, because of the fact that particular certain man or woman is in the mean time biased inside of your manufacturer title, your spot, we’re heading to ground spot that greater than we ordinarily would.” That's an effective probably instrument inside of your arsenal. As a result, it is helpful to consider vital phrase concentrating on a lot more than a website page certain place nevertheless for web pages that you simply merely could not believe would obtain search for visitors.

Google+ even now, in my view, an extremely helpful place to acquire individualized visitors for two motives. 1 certain particular, evidently you'll be able to get males and ladies the truth is beforehand explained on your website. You could properly be able of getting likely web internet site guests by the use of Google+. You'll be able to exist up in individuals lookup closing positive aspects proper jointly with all the foundation for any individual who follows you or any specific who’s linked to you via a piece of email as well as other sorts of Google purposes. You can probably have also seen that every time you email with any person, if they can be producing usage of Gmail concurrently as their Google+ account is appropriate, the thing is within the tiny right-hand corner there that they’ll current their actually final spot up or their very last handful of posts from time to time on Google+. But once more, also a strong method of hook up with folks and in addition to sharing the material substance material as you happen to be emailing backward and forwards with them.

For brand names, that also reveals up in final lookup results occasionally. There is certainly surely the maker box throughout the right-hand aspect, selection of like Understanding Graph, and it’ll draw current your incredibly final few of posts from Google+. So when a lot more, way more as well as a great deal far more probabilities to be witnessed if you occur to get carrying out Google+.

I'm also heading to surmise that, even though inside the foreseeable long term, Google may do variables utilizing this through Twitter. They simply concluded re-inking that offer you especially specifically in which Twitter provides their comprehensive fire hose utilization of Google and Google commences exhibiting a lot more and also a lot more of that variable in investigation ultimate outcomes. So I do think possibly even now beneficial to contemplate how that site website link might sort. Entirely nonetheless beneficial on to get it done in Google+ regardless of the simple fact that you will be not getting any visitors from Google+.

Then the ultimate 1, within a normal way, becoming multi-device great and usable. This might be just one factor specifically exactly where Moz has normally fallen, and plainly we’re extremely very likely to obtain correcting that while within the months forward. I hope we restore it quickly following April twenty-first so we will see irrespective of whether we possess a strike right after they try this mobile factor. I do think which can develop into a noble sacrifice; then we could see how we thorough after that then right it and discover if we'll get back again in Google’s extraordinary graces just before prolonged correct soon after that.

So supplied these approaches and many of the knowledge close to how individualized lookup functions, ideally you'll be able to knowledge the important thing rewards of personalized investigation and assist recommend your teams, your bosses, your clientele about personalization way too considering that the quite very likely impacts. With any luck , , we’ll be redoing many of these tales, way also, for receiving able to describe to you, hey, the level of a good deal a lot more is personalization impacting SEO advertising and marketing and advertising previously mentioned the final word eighteen months also as in whole lot of numerous many years in advance.

All appropriate, one and all. Several many thanks once more for turning out for being a member of us, and we’ll see you when the much more subsequent time for an extra product of Whiteboard Friday.

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furederiko · 7 years

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Today's a very 'cool date*', so to celebrate that, here's a Random-News-Digest!!! :D *) Uhm... it IS 17.02.2017 right?

Disney Live Action

Are you familiar with Niki Caro? I don't, but I know her name because she's one of the contenders to direct Marvel Studios' upcoming "Captain Marvel". In fact, somehow I'm rooting for her to take the job, after knowing her 'feminist' portofolio. Unfortunately, there's a possibility that we might need to cross off her name from the list. Why? Because Walt Disney Studio has just signed her up to do something else. A project that sounds equally feminist. What is that? Their live action adaptation for "Mulan". It seems many are already excited with this news too!

Of course, nothing much has changed since we last heard any news about the movie. At the time, Disney was said to be conducting search for Chinese actress for the lead role. But we haven't heard any development of it. Nevertheless, it's good to know that the project has an official helmer now. More importantly, the hiring of Caro sets a positive difference to SONY's version that will be led by a male director. For now, it's uncertain whether one version will be better than the other or not. We'll just have to wait and see. And while we wait for more updates about this project, we'll just have to make do with "Beauty and the Beast" that is soon to greet us. I hope that movie will be as wonderful as "Cinderella", or as great as "The Jungle Book". Crossing my fingers!

DC Films

Right now, "The LEGO Batman Movie" is cashing success here and there, with brimming praises from audience and critics alike. Sadly, on the other side, a dark shadow is looming over the live action side. It's so 'dark', that I actually don't want to talk about this... ugh, 'Cinematic Universe' too much. But sometimes, the temptation to analyze what's happening is just too strong for me to handle.

Fresh off the departure of Ben Affleck from directing "The Batman", another sign of storm has hit the project. As reported by Forbes, looks like Affleck stepping out of the director's chair is not enough for Warner Bros. Why? They want to completely ditch the script he wrote with Geoff Johns too! If you're a DC fan, and more than that, enjoyed his performance as Batman in DC Films latest two titles, then probably it's time to get worried. Joining "The Flash" that has been given a page-one rewrite by Joby Harold, script for "The Batman" might also get similar treatment. This isn't surprising though, because whoever is assigned as the new director would want to do it anyway, and it seems WB wants to have a fresh start with the project. Beside, the script we are talking about was already rewritten by Chris Terrio, who we all know has done an 'amazing job' for "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice".

Speaking of director, the report mentioned that Matt Reeves, famously known for his "Cloverfield" and "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes", was in negotiation to take over the directorial duty. A current frontrunner, at least. Of course, that could be considered as old news now. Variety has confirmed this, and added that while no deal has been made yet, Reeves has already committed to the project. Assuming he doesn't walk out, of course, because we know that has happened more than once.

These decisions effectively pulled both movies from their initial... I mean, planned release dates. "The Flash" will never going to make its March 2018 date, and Cyborg's inclusion in the story has been put under question. What was once relied on Ezra Miller and Ray Fisher's chemistry, needs to be reevaluated with audience's response, especially when "Justice League" arrives later this year. "The Batman" will not likely be released in 2018 too, much to the disappointment of many (including yours truly). Because WB is more likely to give it an opening in 2019 instead. In my opinion, if these delays are necessary to produce a better product, then why not? It'd be much wiser for WB to craft a quality movie and gets them 'right' instead of rushing one, so that we can put a stop on discussing problems in the DC Films. Not because we hate DC and pro to the competitor, but because it's all for the better. Beside, we might already have James Wan's "Aquaman" and "Gotham City Sirens" in their place. For the record (but I'm sure you know this already), I don't have any ounce of interest for the former, and lost any bit I have for the latter due to knowing that... ugh, David Ayer is handling it. Bully lead actor and bully director? I'll pass.

Thing is, the possible rewrite for "The Batman" also indicated another problem. Mainly, for Affleck's standing in it. Remember, I said last week that him directing the next solo movie has been part of the deal he made with WB. To my knowledge at the very least, and that presumably included writing the script too. But now, not only has he stepped back from directing, his script is getting reworked as well. If you ask me, those are negative indications of something else. What is it? Yes, signs that he (just like Jared Leto who had openly voiced disappointment with "Suicide Squad") is burnt out and might walk out from playing the role as well. Mind you, this not official, so don't be alarmed just yet. That's just the message I get from these reports, and well, one that not only me, but practically anyone would easily come to assumption. But when you think of it closely, this theory DOES make perfect sense, and I don't think I would be surprised if such turnout is the case. With "Justice League", he HAS already made three DC Films, and yet, it has already been two strikes down. His involvement has been a pretty demanding process, and he already DID look pretty bummed out after the disaster that was "BvS". Not to mention, the actual drama on his personal life must be affleck... er affecting his concentration too.

Adding flame to the fire, Collider Talk (via Playlist) recently stated that "Ben Affleck, make no mistake, he wants out. He doesn’t want to be Batman anymore.". That Affleck IS in active discussions to remove himself from his DCEU deal. OUCH! Sure, take this information with a 'grain of salt', but as I said, it's not even hard for any of us to put all the pieces together and come to a similar conclusion. Try putting yourself in his shoes, and you'd no doubt understand the urge to just walk away in peace. If anything, "The Batman" might very well be his last picture as Bruce Wayne. Hmmm... this gets me thinking. Why not just kill him off in "Justice League" then? They've done the same before with Superman, right? I bet this stunt would cause a great buzz to help boost interest for the movie. Because frankly, eventhough it is meant to be a first-time ensemble movie, the Zack Snyder's movie doesn't even sound... interesting. Bad strategy? Perhaps...

DC Animations

Can we say that WB is doing better in the animation department? Perhaps. Once again, "The LEGO Batman Movie" is the example. Although, after finally seeing "Justice League Dark" over the weekend, I can't be too certain about it anymore. I won't say much, but let's just say I was quite disappointed by how that movie turned out. I even thought to give up completely on future direct-to-video movies, because frankly, well, they aren't working for me, as much as they used to be anymore. However, there IS at least one more title that I'm willing to check out. And that is the upcoming "Teen Titans: Judas Contract".

When I saw the trailer (courtesy of IGN) for this upcoming movie, a glitter of hope sparkled in my eyes. Finally, at long last, WB Animation is confident enough to stamp the Titans' name into their own movie. Remember "Justice League vs Teen Titans"? That was a good movie, but definitely a misleading title! I don't think they need to stamp Justice League on everything, and furthermore, incorporate Batman on anything they release (which is one of my major issues with "JL Dark"). Have faith in other characters, and let them shine in their own. "Judas Contract" is already showing positive direction towards that, obviously taking its cue on the "Young Justice" series. Sure, we have two members of the Bat-family in its core, but it's Dick Grayson's Nightwing and Damian Wayne's Robin we are talking about here. Characters who usually get gypped A LOT in any entertainments that is not comic. So it's more than high time for them to take the spotlight... on their own! Of course, I remain wary and not counting on too much with this movie. I have a feeling that WB Animation will try to unnecessarily snuck in Batman somehow, and I will undeniably cringe when that happens. But I'm biased for Nightwing (even if he's Red and not Blue this time around *sigh*), and I think that alone is more than enough as a reason for me to see this movie. At least to respect my favorite boy wonder...

Ghost in the Shell

Paramount Pictures has released the first official trailer for the movie. If past teaser have all focused on the character of the Major, who is played by Scarlett Johansson, or the setting, and the nude-but-not-really actions, this one showcased what the story is all about. If you're initially on the fence about it, well... you might still be in... one? No, seriously, nothing really change for yours truly.... Ahahaha. I have to admit though, even if I'm still not sold about it, this latest trailer did look much better than the previous teasers. At the very least, now I can say that "Hey, this movie might be good". I won't go running to the theatre to check it out, but I'm now 100% sure that I'll give it a try whenever it hits home video. Who knows, this could be the surprise hit that Hollywood has been searching for...

Bubbles

Last year (precisely on March), a biopic project involving the late Michael Jackson's chimpanzee Bubbles made the headline. Dan Harmon was said to be working on it, with a script from Isaac Adamson. If that sounded a little surreal to be true, well, it IS happening. Deadline reported (via Birth.Movies.Death) that the movie has secured directors to start production. Yes, directors, in plurals. And the names will give you a pleasant surprise! After completing "Thor: Ragnarok", Taika Waititi will be working on this movie. He's not alone, because he will be collaborating with Mark Gustafson, whose past portofolio includes the Oscar nominated "Fantastic Mr. Fox", and he will be co-directing "Pinnochio" with Guillermo del Toro soon. Several trades have mentioned that Adamson's script for this stop-motion animated movie was one of the "weirdest, funniest, most unlikely projects currently kicking around Hollywood". Now with Waititi's signature style of comedy, Gustafson's experience in the stop-motion style, and Harmon producing through his Starburns Industries (that created the Oscar nominated "Anomalisa"!), this project has risen to be one of the most promising title to look out in Hollywood right now. There aren't any more details about when it will start production or when it will be released, but let's just say, I won't be surprised if it's running for Oscar as soon as it hits the market...

X-Men Universe

'Superhero Fatigue'. I used to think that such sentiment was exaggerated, just an odd fad, and truth be told, I also don't feel that it's happening in the world. But unfortunately, thanks to all these DC Films news, and also FOX's lousy take on their Marvel properties, I'm starting to feel that I have finally caught one. I mean, I couldn't even get excited for "Logan", no matter how hard I try.

Moreso about the other X-Men property, namely the one Simon Kinberg is working on. You know, the one rumored to be called "X-Men: Supernova". If you've been wondering why I haven't been talking about it... well, that's because I sincerely couldn't care less. Was genuinely intrigued about the 'reboot', but it all went away upon learning that the same people are still in charge. The whole soft reboot headline felt nothing more than just a mere 'click-bait' attempt to attract attention... to gain back the franchise's fading popularity.

Anyway, My Entertainment World claimed that an official synopsis for the movie has been released. True to the rumor, it will focus on Jean Grey and her once again, downfall to the Phoenix Force. That synopsis strikes me as 'odd', particularly the "been on adventures that spanned galaxies" bit, considering it has never happened. But this is FOX we're talking about, so nothing has ever make any good sense, particularly in terms of continuity. This secrecy in development feels 'weird' too, and only reminded me of... yes, the disaster that was 2015's "Fant4stic Four". The rumor also mentioned that the movie will begin filming in Montreal in June. Interestingly, the synopsis points out that Professor X might be involved too. IF, and only if, this movie is indeed a continuation of that forgettable "X-Men: Apocalypse", then will James McAvoy and Sophie Turner return to play Prof. X and Greay? We'll just have to wait and find out. But one thing for certain, I doubt anyone is even asking for this movie...

Marvel Studios

Marvel Studios released the first official TV spot for "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2", and many had said that the 30-seconds piece contains a new footage. Hold on, 'many SAID'? Yes, because I haven't personally seen it yet. I'll be watching the movie anyway, so I don't need any reassurances to do so. As I've said before, when I've completely set my mind to see a movie, I will avoid any marketing or promotional materials to not get myself spoiled too much. I've done the opposite before, and I've ruined my own viewing experience. That's certainly not something I would do again!

On a side note, The Hollywood Reporter reported something VERY interesting about the movie. The site stated that Marvel Studios had conducted a test screening for the movie, and the feedback of the audience? A 'Perfect 100' score. That is AMAZING! The site compared it to "Iron Man 3" and "The Avengers" that previously scored high 90s. It can be considered as a new achievement for the Studio, although I doubt anyone would be surprised by it. But they also cautioned, that this result can't actually be compared with other non-Marvel movies, because it's the Studios' own style of "friends and families screenings". Other Studios might not use the same approach, and you can read the article to check how other movies performed and whether their score a good indication of the release product or not. Nevertheless, this is a great assurance, especially for Marvel fans who have been faithful with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Remember, eventhough "Iron Man 3" ended up as a bit polarizing, "The Avengers" was universally acclaimed. Both movies were equally crowd-pleasers.

"Thor: Ragnarok" has finally begun to show its might too! Inline with the Valentine's Day release of "Doctor Strange" Bluray (and digital download), some exciting concept arts from Chris Hemsworth's third solo movie have been revealed. We get to see how Cate Blanchett's Hela would look (EERIE and CREEPY!!!) and it even hinted that she might pursue Thor and Tom Hiddleston's Loki to Earth (New York, perhaps?). We get to see a VERY cool image of Mark Ruffalo's Gladiator Hulk in the arena with Thor. And shots of Waititi behind the camera, in a scene that strongly hinted the presence of Surtur, the Fire Demon of Muspelheim. If that's not enough, an official second trailer for "Team Thor" Mockumentary has been released on Marvel's Youtube channel. This special parody is available in the Bluray as well.

"Black Panther" had equally shown its fangs! The same featurette that could be seen through "Doctor Strange" Bluray, also gave several concept arts for the fictional country of Wakanda. And it looked nothing but GORGEOUS. This nation has been said to be a mixture of traditional African culture and advanced technology, and well, it's more than obvious that's indeed the case. It felt like Thor's hometow... er homerealm Asgard that exists on Earth! Just the look of this concept art alone is enough to make me want to see the movie right away!

Last but not least, Marvel Studios have officially released production announcement for "Avengers: Infinity War". You can view (yes view, not read) this announcement on Youtube or Twitter. Mind you, it didn't reveal who will or will not be in the movie. Like perhaps possibly confirming the inclusion of Benicio Del Toro's The Collector, or Michael Douglas' Hank Pym aside from his obvious return in the upcoming "Ant-Man and the Wasp" (that will begin production in Summer)? Nope. None of that.

It did however, confirmed several reports about the movie. Yes, the movie will feature the union of the Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy. And yes, Spider-Man WILL be in the movie. I mean, why else would Robert Downey Jr., Chris Pratt, and Tom Holland be the face of the announcement? LOL. That setting too, it looks oddly familiar to a particular... nightmarish scene in "Avengers: Age of Ultron", indicating that Tony Stark probably never hallucinated when he was hexed in that movie. Anthony Mackie's Falcon, Sebastian Stan's Winter Soldier, and Elizabeth Olsen's Scarlet Witch are all subtly confirmed via a quick glimpse of character cards. While both Thor and Bradley Cooper-voiced Rocket Raccoon are confirmed via a really cool concept art. One that showed the two working TOGETHER side by side. WOW!

Suffice to say, this announcement wasn't like they normally do. There are still plenty of questions, but it's enough to bring a storm of hype to MCU's fans. Here's hoping we'll get more confirmation, even unofficial, of who will be in the movie. I'm particularly curious about the new characters that will debut in it. Could we be seeing, a particular Atlantean jerk too? Hmmm... that would be neat. Why bring that up, you ask? Go check the last two paragraphs on Marvel TV section, okay! Carry on...

LEGO Movies / Series

Last week, I ranted a bit about "The LEGO Ninjago Movie". I have also mentioned how the movie had sort of flown under the radar for me. That trend seemed to be continuing, as I just discovered that an official trailer for the movie has even been released! I won't say much about this movie, because my concern about it... remains intact. The design alone is enough to rub me in the wrong way. I want to get excited for this, but for the time being I just simply can't. Desperately need more persuasions...

More importantly, I'm very surprised to know that the franchise has begun airing its 7th Season... since December! I know I didn't follow the news for "The LEGO Ninjago" TV Series dilligently, but how... HOW could something I've been patiently waiting for, happened behind my back. Great Gawd!!! Turns out, the "Day of the Departed" special that put Cole on the centerpiece, was immediately followed by this new 10-episodes story that's focusing on Kai and Nya. It looks intriguing, and I'm expecting good things too, since this TV series has only continued to outdo itself in each new season. I just hope I can watch it soon... *sigh*.

Marvel TV

More casting announcements! And they've come in big numbers too, considering both Marvel's "Runaways" and Marvel's "Cloak and Dagger" require an ensemble cast.

The former in particular. We know that 6 young actors have been confirmed for the Hulu Project before. Problem is, in the comics, the antagonist for this team of runaways is called "The Pride" and it consists of... their own parents. Yep, that means we will need 12 more actors to fill in their roles. And well, faithful to the source material, that's exactly what has happened. At least, 10 of them for now. Marvel TV officially announced that Ryan Sands, Angel Parker, Brittany Ishibashi, James Yaegashi, Kevin Weisman, Brigid Brannagh, Annie Wersching, Kip Pardue, James Marsters, and Ever Carradine have joined the show. Sands and Parker are set to portray Geoffrey and Catherine Wilder, the parents of Alex. Ishibashi and Yaegashi are set to play Tina and Robert Minoru, the non-mystic-warriors(?) parents of Nico. Weisman and Brannagh have been cast as Dale and Stacey Yorkes, the parents of Gert. Wersching and Pardue will play Leslie and Frank Dean, the... human(?) parents of Karolina. Last but not least, Marsters and Carradine will play Victor and Janet Stein, the parents for the team's smart-jock Chase.

You can read their character description on the announcement, and well... as noted by the '?'s, it has sparked some questions. Especially to fans who have read the comics. The one that has gotten people talking, would be Ishibashi's role as Tina Minoru. Why? Because a character by the same name has already debuted in "Doctor Strange"! She was played by actress Linda Louse Duan, a Master of Mystic Arts in Kamar-Taj, and assuming the prelude comic is canon (it SHOULD be, IMHO), one of the core protectors of Sanctum Santorums. On the same level of Daniel Drumm, Kaecillius, and Wong himself. Is the character being recast for the show then? That's a possibility. After all, Duan's Chinese, while Ishibashi is Japanese, a more race-appropriate actress for the character. What's bugging me however, is how she's being described as "A perfectionist 'tiger mom.' In her professional life, she is a brilliant innovator and ruthless CEO". Wait, WHAT? Is that even... the SAME character?

This reveal, led to a polarizing discussion of one important thing: whether this show exists in the MCU or not. Honestly, when I heard that this title has been developed for TV (it was previously for a movie), I immediately thought this would be a great place to intersect both the movie and TV side. An "It's all connected" move, that has gone into oblivion following the internal affair between both divisions. Particularly because there IS a character that breathes in both side. So if you ask me, the re-casting (if that's really the case) of Tina Minoru sounds like a wasted opportunity on that part. Is it difficult to call the same actress for the role? I do have another theory about this though. I believe, and this is just speculation only, this "Runaways" TV series is NOT AT ALL related with the movie side. In fact, it might exist in its own continuity, a separate universe that might be a completely different plane from the world of "Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and the Netflix shows. After all, that IS the major purpose of "Doctor Strange", right? To open the MCU's floodgate for... *drumrolls* MULTIVERSE. That will make a lot of sense.

Besides, technically speaking, Hulu is its own streaming provider, that is NOT related to ABC or Disney. Even if ABC Signature Studios is co-producing this series. Think of it like "Gotham", "Lucifer" or "Preacher" that each take place in their own individual worlds. NOT connected to "Arrow" or "The Flash" at the slightest. One other thing, if I'm not mistaken, one of the character is supposed to be a mutant. And we fully aware, that mutants don't exist in the MCU. CAN'T exist in it. By changing a bit of the character's backstory, Marvel TV can dodge the copyright problem fairly easily. They have made a deal with FOX for "Legion" anyway. So yeah, I'm very certain that this theory is indeed the case. A bit disappointing, because Marvel TV had missed a huge potential to cross-polinate between movies and tv shows, but I really don't mind. If anything, now I don't really need to push myself see it anymore. I mean, why should I invest my time on it, when it's not connected? For now, let's just wait for confirmation about this from Jeph Loeb. I'm SURE somebody from entertainment sites would go ahead and ask him this particular question.

As for "Cloak and Dagger", Andrea Roth, Gloria Reuben, Miles Mussenden, Carl Lundstedt, James Saito, and J.D. Evermore have officially joined the cast. Roth will portray Melissa Bowen, who is Tandy's mother. Reuben and Mussenden will play Adina and Michael Johnson, obviously the parents for Tyrone. Lundstedt is playing Liam, who is described as "Tandy's partner in crime while moonlighting as her boyfriend". Basically, the third-wheel, right? Saito is playing Dr. Bernard Sanjo, who has 'unusual relationship' with Tyrone. Lastly, Evermore will play Detective Connors who MIGHT be the one tracking down Tandy and Tyrone. The casting of Lundstedt and Evermore was previously 'scooped' by Deadline.

This might sound pessimistic, but my interest for "Cloak and Dagger" only continues to fade out thanks to this announcement. Why? It feels more and more that the show's going to be... what the word... 'generic'? Especially after reading the description for Lundstedt's character. I think I immediately subconsciously uttered "Oh boy, this is going to be another Glee bully character" after reading the news. Not that I hated that teenage musical show, but... you know, I... Oh well, I shouldn't have expected something more than that, should I? My bad, I guess.

Are you satisfied with these new casting announcements? NOPE? Well, I agree, because you shouldn't. Because there's still one show that only continues to be a mystery until now: Marvel's "The Inhumans". Why haven't we heard the cast names for Inhumans' Royal Family? Or at least scoops about it? What's taking so long, or why the long delay? Latest report by Reel News Hawaii have stated that production for the mini-series will commence very soon in Hawaii. I think, possibly at the start of March. According to the site, the working title is called "Project Next", and the production team has rented a large, unused Naval facility to house props. Production itself, will take place in the Kapolei-Kalaeloa-West Oahu area, which is west of Honolulu.

Interestingly, and this might just be me overthinking stuff, is the 'choice of words' Reel News Hawaii used to describe the soundstage: "The new Marvel Studios Oahu (I like the sound of that). This is where "The Inhumans" backlot/soundstage & production offices are in Kalaeloa". Nothing wrong with that? Indeed. But observe how they used "Marvel Studios" instead of "Marvel's Studio". Are they playfully making a mistake by referring to Kevin Feige's movie division? OR... it IS being produced by that division instead of Marvel TV? Hmmmm. Here's hoping we'll get an official confirmation about this very soon, alongside that long-awaited casting announcement. Marvel's "The Inhumans" will debut in IMAX on September 4, followed by a TV series on ABC starting on September 26.

Last but not least, a new intriguing rumor has sparked earlier today from the same source, regarding the same Oahu-based studio. What is that? That Marvel is secretly working on... "Sub-Mariner"!!! Obviously, this means the arrogant Namor McKenzie, who is a crucial character in the Marvel comics. Now, now..., there isn't any solid evidence about this yet, apart from a tweet comparing the character with DC's Aquaman. Not to mention, the site cautioned that this is merely a rumor, and could've easily mistaken this report since Triton of the Inhumans has an ability that's almost completely similar to Namor.

Sure, Benedict Cumberbatch has hinted the arrival of the Illuminati in the MCU, and Namor is one of its member (could he debut in... "Avengers: Infinity War" then? Hmmmmm). Sure, Production Weekly has just added credibility to this rumor by listing the title "Sub-Mariner". But it's still worth noted that the site placed it on both Movies and TV Shows category, which indicated that they might NOT be sure what this is all about. Heck, that's exactly the same reason why I'm putting it here. Because it's still unclear. I personally would have preferred this to be a movie, due to massive special effects that will be used, but even I'm not too certain about it. After all, "The Inhumans" required the same thing, but ended up as a TV series instead. Hmmm. As always, grains of salt. At least until we have an official announcement, or scoops from trusted trades. Till then, let's just speculate away...

Netflix

LOL. Mere hours after my last R-N-D went up, Netflix released the official trailer for Marvel's "Iron Fist". I could've included that, right?

The good part? We finally get to see Finn Jones' Danny Rand showcasing his mystical Iron Fist power. Which looks AMAZING, at least for me. The bad part? Not everyone's a fan of the plot. Why? Because many of them immediately compared it to none other than... CW's "Arrow". Just when I thought I was alone having superhero fatigue, turns out others are feeling the same! LOL. Of course, this doesn't mean that "Iron Fist" will be a perfect carbon copy of the CW series. I personally don't feel that the two even share similarities THAT much, not to mention "Arrow" itself is already stealing... er I mean adapting the story of Batman, not its own source material. And remember, people who watch "Arrow" AFTER seeing "Iron Fist", would obviously say the other way around. Am I right?

Anyway, MCUExchange had posted a detailed breakdown to this trailer, and pointed out that "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" alumn Ramon Rodriguez (don't remember? He played that annoying Shia LaBeouf's roommate?) MIGHT be playing a secret important character in it. Could he be playing Davos, the Steel Serpent? I don't see why not. It makes sense even, especially with the odd veil of secrecy about his involvement. Erik LaRay Harvey's Diamondback, anyone? What do you think? Guess we'll just have to wait until March 17 to find out. For now, go ahead and check out the Final Defender's first featurette that was published via Twitter.

Meanwhile, Marvel's "The Defenders" continues filming, and looks like we'll be getting a scene of Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock, Mike Colter's Luke Cage, and Krysten Ritter's Jessica Jones... commuting the subway together. My only reaction for these candid images was... WHERE'S DANNY?!!!! One more thing, don't expect this much anticipated mini series to arrive before June. Why? Netflix already has a tight schedule of release dates until June 9, and not a sign of "The Defenders". My guess? It'll arrive in August, considering Marvel has "Spider-Man: Homecoming" in July. They can release it at the same month though, making it a New York-based month for Marvel.

The second season of "Stranger Things" might have 'suffered' the same delay. After all, it won't arrive until Halloween, right? Not to worry though, if you're already aching to get your doze of the creepy Upside-Down, a few official(?) images from the new season have hit the internet. It looks the threat of the supernatural isn't over yet, and Will Byers' return only triggers more problem. After all, almost everyone look scared in these images.

As for how many season we'll be getting for this series? Ross and Matt Duffer Brothers spoke to Entertainment Weekly and revealed that it might go on to last four of five seasons. That means, assuming it's released in a yearly basis, it will last until 2020. I bet the kids will be in senior high school when the time comes! LOL. It's not a fixed plan though, and things can change along the way. But they have planned a "finite ending" for it, and don't want the show "runs out of gas and they lose it because they’re losing interest. You wanna end when you’re on top.". That's a good approach. After all, many are already concerned, and have been voicing disagreements to even have this second season, especially because of how good the ending was. As always, we'll see what happens next.

One last thing before I wrap up this category. "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" Season 3 has a release date! YAAAY! Netflix has even released an official teaser, and this one is focused on Titus Andromedon. Did this teaser just hint that he's no longer with Mikey? Oh noooes. I'm always annoyed when a show puts a twist on its great couple *sigh*. Anyways, I'm a fan of this irresistble unbreakable show, so of course I'm excited about it. Now I only need to wait patiently until May 19, right? Dang it, can I make it? That's TOO LONG... XD

Kyoukai no Rinne

Hey, it's the only anime category in this post! Ahahaha. Okay, this will be brief. NHK has officially announced the premiere date for the 3rd season of "Kyoukai no Rinne". The season will begin airing every Sunday, starting on April 9, 2017. Two new voice actors will be joining the season as well. Miyuki Sawashiro will be playing Anematsuri Annette Hitomi, who is the lady that was already hinted in the post credit scene of Season 2's finale. Prolific voice actress Megumi Hayashibara will be playing Otome Rokudou, who is none other than Rinne's own mother. Her casting would make for a nice nod to Rumiko Takahashi's former work, considering both her and Kappei Yamaguchi (who is voicing Rinne's father Sabato) voiced the different genders of one Ranma Saotome in "Ranma 1/2"!!! We already have Yukino Satsuki, a.k.a Kagome Higurashi in "Inu Yasha", who's been voicing Rinne's ageless grandmother Tamako. Wouldn't it be more awesome if we're getting even more 'Takahashi-alumni' in this show? Noriko Hidaka, Rei Sakuma, Kikuko Inoue, and/or Minami Takayama perhaps? That'd totally made my day... XD

Street Fighter

Looks like that fan-speculation might be true after all! Helen/Kolin has been revealed to be the 2nd character (if we count Akuma) of the 2nd DLC lines for "Street Fighter V". Or as CAPCOM said it, 2nd Season. The good news is, Kolin's a new character that hasn't been playable before, but the bad news is, she's NOT exactly new, considering she has already debuted in "Street Fighter III" albeit as minor character.

Kolin, as she should be referred to by now (she used the name Helen to avoid spoilering the game's connection to SFIII), played a plot-moving part in the "A Shadow Falls" Cinematic Expansion. She served as an intermediary of the Illuminati, reporting to Urien, and well, resurrected Charlie Nash and used the poor-sod to bring down M. Bison and his Shadaloo Empire. All for the sake of her master Gill. This character will be available on February 28, and will arrive with her own Story Mode, variety of costumes, "Premium Battle" feature, and "Nostalgia" costumes. She will be using the martial art of Russian's Systema, and also utilizing the power of ice, which as far as I remember can be considered as new. Design-wise, it does seem that she's getting a face makeover. Depending on user's preference, this could be either good or bad. CAPCOM UK's Matt Edwards has revealed how the game's character select screen would look with the addition of the latest 2 DLCs.

CAPCOM promised to reveal the remaining four characters 'every other month' beginning in February, which means the last character will arrive in October at the earliest. Looks like the company is dodging the bullets in advance, learning from their past mistake of failing to fulfill their own promise for a monthly release. Letting players know ahead that they won't be getting more characters soon, can be considered a wise movie. However, I don't know if Akuma, Kolin, and these 4 'completely new' characters would even manage to satisfy fans. Especially in such extended duration of release. Personally? I'm NOT too impressed with Kolin, due to many reasons. Not just her, but the remaining 4 characters too, assuming the speculation is 100% correct. Really, I'd be more grateful if we get veteran fan-beloved fighters like Sagat, Cody Travers, or Sakura Kasugano instead. Or even better, a 100% new character that hasn't been seen anywhere before. A blank canvas, if you will. From what I've been reading online, I'm definitely not alone in this. Could this be the title's last straw for many players? That seems to be the case. Let's not jynx it too early though, we can never tell what might happen tomorrow...

Pokemon (Pocket Monsters)

The Johto Pokemon has arrived in "Pokemon GO"! When Niantic first announced it on the official trailer, I didn't think it would arrive this fast. Yep, in case you missed it, the latest update (version 0.57.2 for Android and 1.27.2 for iOS) has been made available THIS MORNING (my timezone), and yes, Chikorita, Cyndaquil, Totodile, and all the new species from "Pokemon Gold, Silver & Crystal" are now available in the wilderness. Trust me, I've encountered Chikorita, HootHoot, Wooper, Chinchou, and others with my own eyes. Darn it, those are the exact Pokemon types I would love to obtain, some are my all-time favorites *cries in joy*. There will be a long seemingly-infinite loading process once you've executed the update, but don't worry and just wait for a while, and you'll get all the features working.

I know what you're thinking. It took 2 damn months after the first baby-batch was released! But this update came with massive changes too, so why the long frowning face? In the official release note, Niantic has confirmed several features that they have revealed several days ago: - Over 80 additional Johto Pokemon. Is this everyone? There are 100 new Species in Johto. If we count out the 6 Legendaries (since not even the Kanto ones have been available), we only get 94. Remember, we already had 8 species before via Eggs (Pichu, Togepi, Cleffa, Igglybuff, Elekid, Magby, and Smoochum, Togetic), which leaves us with 86. Note the word 'OVER'? Yep, this is basically every species then! - Gender-specific variations are now available. You can check this on your Pokemon status page. I wonder if this will lead towards "Breeding" feature then? Hmmm... - PokeBall and Berry selection carousels, are added to the encounter screen, which might take a while to get used to. There are also two new Berries available, the Nanab and Pinap. Nanab can slow a wild Pokemon's movements, while Pinap will double the amount of Candy that is earned when capturing the Pokemon. I personally haven't seen these Berries in effects so far, but it's there. Niantic has posted official screenshots for them. You can also... 'catch' it on the announcement trailer. LOL. - There will be bonus Candies for catching evolved Pokemon. Something the App should've implemented since day one! *sigh*. Oh and yeah, you're still going to need them too. Some Kanto Pokemon can be evolved into new forms, but with a catch. You not only need the right amount of Candies, but also a "Specific Item" to do so! So if you want, you can evolve that drool-ugly Gloom into the adorably charming Bellosom this very instant. As long as you have the Sun Stone!!! OUCH!!! Now it's going to be a real challenge to get Scizor, Politoed, Slowking, Kingdra, and some others *sigh*. These items will be obtainable through PokeStops, so it all relies on pure luck. Which is NOT so good for players who are running low on one. Oh well, at least Crobat, Espeon, and Umbreon won't be as hard to get. - New encounter mechanics. Some Pokemon will be more 'tricky' to catch, with random movements that might surprise you. For example, Yanma will fly around making it hard to focus your throw, while Remoraid will swim around from left to right, causing you to have problem in aiming the Pokeball. I haven't noticed anything else, but this is a nice change nonetheless. - New Avatar outfit and accessory, which is a nice touch because that trainer jacket looks boring. Unfortunately, several casual clothings are available if you... purchase them with Coins. Yep, it's NOT free, and that's a little bummer. Oh well, at least there's an option to not wear hats and gloves now. I don't recall it was possible before. Now if only we have more hairstyles, and also body size, "Pokemon GO" can end up looking more diverse like the recent handheld titles, right? Hope Niantic is hearing this. - New night-mode map are added too. These ones I can't state for sure, because it's not yet night in my time. - New encounter music? I could've sworn nothing changes. Perhaps only for the night mode? Hmmm.

It remains to be seen, whether this update will boost back the game into popularity. Would players who have given up, return to see new faces and enjoy the new features? I think the more important question is, how long will this hype stays on? Let's just hope that Niantic will find a way to keep their players interested and invested. To celebrate this long awaited update, Niantic will be giving 'discount' to purchase Pokemon Storage update. Which makes perfect sense (and should've been FREE of charge, IMHO), because we're going to need it more than ever now. This sale only last from February 16 to 28 though, so you need to be quick. So what are you waiting for? Hurry up, get out there, and start getting more Pokemon in your city. If only there's a "Trading" feature though... *winks*

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