#adoras behaviour here is Not Great

[ericas-spop-blog]

A list of season 4's sins, which I may or may not ever get around to expanding on:

E1, Coronation: Should have been the third episode, after Valley of the Lost and Flutterina. Taken in isolation, it's a great episode, with only a couple of oddities, but it's position in the larger season structure has distorting effects. (I would not be surprised if someone told me it had been written to run later, and was then pulled forward to open the season with a big-bang centerpiece)

E2, Valley of the Lost. (a) Should have been the first episode; it introduces key conflicts and a new lynchpin character, which should have been front-and-center for the full season. (b) Bow lying to Glimmer about the mission going great (at Adora's insistence) is the first piece of a season-long pattern of him biasing in Adora's favour. Which would be great, except for the part where the big climax of his season arc is him telling Glimmer she's in the wrong and he can't overlook that anymore. (b) While the overall Adora/Huntara dynamic is really great, Adora should not be chill and neutral over Huntara saying that she was wrong to leave the Wastes, because that's not a neutral statement vis-a-vis her relationship to Adora/Adora's arc. It's an admission that leaving is not a compulsion but a choice (and an ultimately kind of selfish one).

E3: Flutterina. (a) Bow being on board with staying for the party ends up framing their dismissal/abandonment of Glimmer as not actually a point of conflict/concern, and is another ding on the unacknowledged Adora-bias scale. (b) Adora's characterization in this episode suffers from leaning too heavily on Standard Cartoon Tropes; her egotism ends up being framed as only existing within the bounds of the episode - invented and resolved between the opening and closing credits - rather than being a pulling-into-focus of something that has always been a problem for her, and is going to become much more so over the course of the season.

E4: Pulse. Goddamned dirty tricks of framing. Suffers from not having a breather episode to buffer between DT getting into BrightMoon and everything going south (a big part of why I think Coronation should have run between Flutterina and this episode, not as the season premiere.)

E5: Protocol. No notes(at least as far as sins go). A highlight of the season!

E6: Princess Scorpia. (a) Like in Pulse, there's a sneaky cut in here, which is used to frame DT/Flutterina as making mountains out of molehills, tricking Glimmer into viewing benign(ish) behaviour - restating the mission goals - as pushy and controlling. Which end up minimizing the part where Adora is being weird and controlling - that she's more concerned with Glimmer-as-Queen than Glimmer-as-Glimmer, is a dismissive shit about non-princess magic, and comes within a hairs breath of saying Glimmer should stay in the kitchen castle and leave missions to the real fighters. (b) More Bow-implicitly-siding-with-Adora, using "rah-rah best friends" deflection when Adora is being a dismissive shitweasel, but "Now apologize for being angry" mediation when Glimmer tells Adora to back off.

E7: Mer-Mysteries. Mostly suffers from reaping the problems earlier episodes have sown. The clarity that Adora's actual issue is being butthurt over not being Shadow Weaver's favourite is good (and just obviously true), but should have come three episodes ago.

E8: Boy's Night Out. (a) Remember kids, Adora running off and disobeying orders is Cool and Heroic, but Glimmer doing it is bad and wrong. (also, uh. She's the Queen? She can just assign herself to missions? It feels like "Glimmer just showed up without telling anyone" exists - and is brought up by Bow - not for any diagetic reason, but so that Adora can be "justified" in yelling at her. Because if Adora was being pissy about Glimmer being in the field with no other excuses ...then she'd irrefutably be an asshole and prove that all those "fake" barbs Glimmer sent her way an episode ago were 100% correct(which was kind of the point?)) (b) The narrative coddling of Adora negatively impacts Bow's arc, in what's supposed to be a Bow-centric episode. Bow is having a breakdown because both Glimmer and Adora are being shitheads who are using him as ammunition in their personal pissing match; pairing that with "poor sad bb Adora, Glimmer is being so mean" doesn't work. They need to both be framed really negatively to pull off what the episode is trying to do. (props to the voice acting though, which does lean very hard into them both being awful)

E9: Hero. No notes. Again, a highlight of the season!

E10: Fractures. As with Mer-Mysteries, is really good in it's own right, but is undermined by how previous episodes handled the build up. (a) There's no focus on just how gung-ho Adora was about finding the super weapon until this moment (and she was super gung-ho; her search for the keys to the Heart are the backbone of both Protocol and Hero). We needed a reminder on what a complete 180 she just pulled. As it is, using the Heart is framed as 100% always and only Shadow Weaver/Glimmer's idea. (b) Bow's "because you're wrong!" is a really strong line - but it's undercut by all the Bow-implicitly-favouring-Adora until this point; this can't be the line he's finally decided He Will Not Cross (not even for Glimmer), because he hasn't actually spent the season being pushed towards that line.

E11: Beast Island. A really strong episode, but again undercut by the overall coddling of Adora up until this point - As narrative elements, Adora's anxiety and self-doubt end up feeling invalid because of how strongly the show has been painting Glimmer as The Villain - Glimmer is the Bad Guy, so Adora falling back on "I'll just ignore what Glimmer said and fix everything" is just Right and Good and not a failure to process her emotions or engage in self-reflection.

E12-13: Destiny: Actually great. No notes.

#spop #scraps #somewhat salty #swearing #season 4

[magicalgirlagency]

Since you've explained why you don't ship KyoSaya, I think you should explain why you don't like MadoHomu as well, to even the odds.

For better context, here's the old ask where I explain why I don't ship KyouSaya.

My pet peeve with MadoHomu is that 99% of the fandom isn't creeped out by it, specially after The Rebellion Story. There's a huge lack of nuance, and it's worrisome IMO.

Like, a majority of people have this black-and-white view of gay people; they think that by being a marginalized minority, any sort of morally reprehensible behaviour that they display is justified. Many people have this romanticized view of gay people in media, and sees them as pure, innocent and sinless saints that cannot do anything wrong, and if they do wrong, it's because the others had it coming and have only themsleves to blame.

And it's not just gay people; any other minority has been flanderized by the media at some point in their lives.

It's basically the same issue that I have with RosePearl (Steven Universe) and Catradora (She-Ra and the Princesses of Power).

May I remind you that these two are MASTER AND SLAVE, and I think I don't need to explain how fucked up this is.

Dude, there's a whole entire blog that documents Catra's abusive behavior towards Adora, and that alone should say something: @anti-catradora-receipts

These ships are all kinds of manipulative and abusive, but both the fandom and the staff don't see it; everything is shamelessly romanticized and seen as beautiful, like a "Love Conquers All" kinda thing. And in Madoka Magica, this is no exception.

Homura has rewritten the universe just so she could be with Madoka, and she actively manipulates everyone's memories just so her personal utopia can remain intact.

"But, wait!", I hear you all cry, "Mami, Nagisa, Kyouko and Sayaka can all live normal lives and be happy, and Kyuubey is paying for their crimes! Isn't that great? Shouldn't we be happy for them?"

Yes and no. Yes, because we get to see Kyuubey suffer; Incubator abuse is always welcome on this here blog. No, because Homura thinks of the other girls (minus Madoka, of course) as afterthoughts as heavily implied in her confront with Sayaka: "All I took was a tiny piece of it [The Law of Cycles]. Just the records of the person that Madoka was before she ceased to exist. Somehow, all of you wound up being pulled in as well. And it seems you can't return to wherever you were before."

And after that, she messes with Sayaka's memories a bit more, so she can't do anything about it, and says this: "We should pretend to be friendly in daily life. If you're confrontational all the time, even she [Madoka] may dislike you."

And speaking of Madoka, it's weird how she is titular character of the original series, and yet no one considers how she feels about Homura's decision. And if you want my honest opinion, I don't think she actually asked for any of this, as she has tried to alert Homura: "Homura-chan, don't! You'll rip me apart!"

To be honest, I don't think Homura sees Madoka as an equal, which it should be the standard for any relationship, romantic and/or otherwise. She created this whole fantasy where Madoka is the weak and helpless damsel in distress that constantly needs protection and saving.

There are even hints of uneasiness and hesitance in Madoka's voice in the second new world, specially when Homura asks her if she considers order important: "Well, I... um... I-I do treasure it. I guess I do think it's kind of bad to break rules becuase you feel like it."

If Madoka REALLY wanted to become mortal again, she wouldn't be so hesitant about it. I mean, she didn't hesitated when she wished for Witch metamorphosis to be erradicated (even though I strongly disapprove of the original ending).

And before I forget, the scenes of Homura's descent into madness had to be redone a second time, because Chiwa Saito's first takes were bordeline yandere. Coincidence? I think not.

"But how can you say it's all romanticized? The whole scene was indeed portrayed to be unsettling!", that is correct, however, the magazine scans and posters see no trouble with the ship:

Why does Madoka seems so helpless? And why does Homura looks so perverse? And why are these two 14yos so heavily sexualized in these? And why is no one freaked out by this?!

And also, I detect a teeny-tiny bit of queerbait in this ship, because during the NitroPlus Q&A panel in Animanga 2013, when Gen Urobuchi was asked if Homura was in love with Madoka, his answer was: "Probably." Noralities' video essay on Magical Girls and queerness touches upon this discrepancy under the Queerbaiting section.

The Rebellion Story had one job, and one job only: To provide fanservice, to please that other half of the audience that thought the original fates of the heroines were cruel and unfair, only for the plot-twist in the end to trample on it. Hell, MadoMagi wasn't supposed to have a third movie; Magia Quartet only came up with it just so SHAFT could keep on milking the cow.

Here's the thing, if you want to see gay relationships being more represented in media, you got to understand that they can be just as messy and complicated as straight relationships are, and they must be acknowledged with the seriousness and urgency that they deserve. Not every relationship is going to be a healthy one.

You know what I want to see in the fourth movie? I want to see Madoka be ANGRY at Homura, I want to see the Cinnamon Roll LASH OUT and TAKE NO PRISONERS. I want to see Homura being called out and her selfishness and I want to see them FIGHT. If this is the path we're taking, then fucking take it seriously, don't sugarcoat that shit.

But Urobuchi is returning for this movie as its writer, so it's best to not create expectations for it. When Urobutcher is at work, we all lose!

(It makes me wonder, though... are there any fanfics where Madoka and Homura fight? Because I'm really interested in reading some of them, since I don't have any high hopes for the movie...)

And last, but not least: Before anyone says that I hate Homura, I just wanna say that this is a lie. I don't hate her, I hate how the stans constantly claim that she hasn't done anything wrong. She DID. She did everything wrong, and then some!

Being gay and/or traumatized is NOT an excuse to do whatever you like. Consequences exist, and anyone, reguardless of origin, orientation/identity, moral alignment and etc., CAN, WILL and SHOULD face them.

We all have suffered and grieved at some point in our lives, and Little Miss "Existence Known As "Evil"" ain’t special. We don't call it a "Karmic Destiny" for nothing.

You're free to like villainous characters, just don't go coddling them like babies, as they are fully capable and aware of their cruelty, and will keep on testing how far they'll go.

Have some nuance. Please, that's all I ask.

[ericamzdm]

S5E6 Pick-Apart - Pt 2

Continuing on from Pt 1 - We’re still on ‘Adora Never Really Owns Her Shit (and is more than a little terrifying)’

You’re holding her prisoner, Adora.

YOU’RE HOLDING HER PRISONER, ADORA

...that’s Shadow Weaver language, Adora.

(~6:40)

Adora: “Catra is driving me crazy. I thought we actually stood a chance at fixing things this time. But after everything we’ve been through, she’s still a stubborn brat.”

After a brief interlude on Etheria, we’re back to Adora being angry about Catra’s lack of compliance. (At least this time she’s just complaining to Glimmer and not, you know, assaulting Catra).

This is just reinforcing my existing impressions - Adora is upset that Catra isn’t falling in line. Adora’s version of ‘fixing things’ is ‘Adora tells Catra what to do’. Adora views Catra as a ‘stubborn brat’.

That is some Bad Shit.

Adora continues to treat Catra, her peer and supposed love interest, as a child - except that I would also be upset to see her treating a child like this.

Because ‘brat’ is an awful word, especially when used against actual children. It is, by design, an attack leveled on the powerless by the powerful, defining them entirely by how convenient they are for their caretakers. It pretends that any inconvenient reactions or desires are the product of intentional, unearned spite and ‘stubbornness’, not the result of the target being a full person with real, independent feelings, needs, and goals (and in this specific case, boatloads of trauma).

Again - all of this is Shadow Weaver language. Adora is still letting Shadow Weaver live rent-free in her head, defining her perception of Catra, her agency, and her actions (and it’s an ugly, abusive perception). Their relationship is never going to be healthy until Adora recognizes that, and works to correct it.

(~6:48) 

Glimmer: “Did you think she was instantly going to become a different person?”

Adora: “I thought she’d at least try. We all risked our lives to save her and she can’t even say thank you? Can you believe it?”

...yikes. Where to start.

(a) Adora’s complaining about Catra not performing gratitude sufficiently continues to be a real bad look. You do the right thing because it is the right thing, not because you expect people to lave your ego afterwards. You definitely don’t pitch a fit when the fail to adhere to this bargain you struck with them inside your own head.

The impression is very much that Adora rescued Catra, not because she wanted Catra to be safe, but because she wanted Catra back (under her control).

(b) It’s pretty creepy that, in this conversation, Adora is outright admitting that she wants to make Catra into a ‘different person’. Because if that’s what she wants...who is Catra-as-she-is to her? A child, in need of her guidance? A lump of clay, waiting for her molding influence? What is she in love with, if not the person in front of her?

It’s one thing to want to help someone you love to grow, and become the best possible version of themselves. But that’s working with them, to find that version and bring it forward, not imposing some external sense of ‘better’ on them.

(c) Adora continues to act out violently throughout this scene - kicking over boxes, lobbing Space Jello around. Catra’s not the only one with emotional dysregulation issues.

(d) Not thrilled with Glimmer/the use of Glimmer in this scene. If she’s supposed to have grown emotionally over the season so far, I’m not seeing it.

(~10:30)

Adora: “That signal’s coming from her chip, isn’t it? Once again, Catra is ruining our lives.”

Good job victim-blaming, Adora. Man, you really are just breaking out all your old tricks in this episode, aren’t you. 

(To clarify: Adora is explicitly blaming Catra for something she had no control over, a side effect of her trauma, and something she is not even aware of. It is deeply fucked up.)

(~12:30) 

Adora: “Grow up and let us remove [the chip], or we’re all dead.”

I will address the Entrapta-related content in part 3 - that said, Adora is once again marking up Catra’s not actually unreasonable fears and trauma reactions to “childishness”, and doing a hell of a lot of threatening looming and grabbing.

Yes, they need to remove the chip for everyone’s safety, but that’s clearly not the primary driver to Adora’s anger here; that continues to stem from the fact Catra isn’t just Doing What She Wants, even when Catra has no way of knowing what the situation is.

(~12:47)

Adora: “If you think hiding from the people you hurt will make you feel better, we’ll drop you off and you’ll never have to see us again. You’ll never have to see me again.”

Which makes it hard for me to really buy this in the way (I have to assume) it was intended. 

Structurally, this is Adora finally, fully releasing the idea that she should control Catra. She is accepting that Catra’s decisions are based on Catra’s wants and needs - they’re not fundamentally ‘bad’ or ‘wrong’, simply because they conflict with Adora’s own desires. She’s admitting that, however much she wants a relationship with Catra, Catra can chose a life without her in it.

All very vital and necessary stuff.

And it feels desperately unearned. There’s no build up, no moment of realization. It just kind of appears in the dialogue, which itself is delivered in tones of anger, frustration, and defeat. It comes across as Adora being bitter that she can’t force Catra into choosing her, not as her reconciling herself to the idea this is Catra’s choice to make, as her own full, independant person.

(~13:00)

Catra: “Adora, wait. Please. Stay.”

But it’s close enough to giving Catra a bit of space, and the narrative treats it as such.

Because this is what Catra needed to continue her growth - the freedom to chose. The chance to look at her options, and decide what she really wants, without anyone threatening her, or making demands, or trying to force her hand.

And what she wants is for Adora to stay.

NB: This is not some kind of trick being played on Adora; this is Catra finally - now that she has the space and the choice - opting in to to relationship that Adora has been trying to force for the entire episode (and series).

(~16:50)

Catra: “I want to go home.”

Adora: “I’m getting us out of here.”

This is another instance of Catra making a choice - Going home is now a thing Catra has chosen for herself, rather than a statement being imposed on her by Adora (however well meaning).

This is also a shift in how Adora speaks about Catra - it’s now “Us”, not “You” - important and welcome! It signals a shift in how she’s treating Catra, where she’s now an equal partner in the relationship, not a junior to be controlled and overridden. (Again, I would just be happier if it did not feel quite so out-of-left-field.)

(~21:30)

And at the end of the episode, Catra is finally given the space to come out and start dealing with the rest of the BFS at her own pace, with her own bondaries in place.

She’s still got a long way to go, but now that she has the freedom to chose, what she’s chosen is to take the first steps towards building healthy, non-abusive relationships.

================

Part 3

#spop #spop season 5 #pick-apart #catra #adora #catradora #abuse #because again #adoras behaviour here is Not Great

[seawitchkaraoke]

Hate hate HATE when people talk about redemption and forgiveness like they’re the same exact thing, they’re not, pls guys, if you defined what you mean by these terms before arguing about whether a character (or a real life person but let’s stick to fiction) deserves redemption we’d all be so much better off.

Forgiveness is something OTHER characters do. Some characters are very forgiving and will immediatly forgive their enemy, even when they’ve barely shown an inkling of changing or even being willing to change. Some characters will not forgive their enemy no matter how much they work at becoming a better person.

Redemption is the process through which a character becomes a better person. They realize they fucked up, they change their behaviour, they work at being better every day. Redemption isn’t ever really done, you can’t just be like “okay, great, i killed one person, now i saved one person, i am redeemed” that’s not how it works. It doesn’t matter whether everyone (or anyone) forgives the character. It matters that they are working hard to be better.

And so a lot of complains about a character getting redeemed too quickly are actually about them getting forgiven too quickly, but that should really be a complaint about the character doing the forgiving. But like. Some characters simply are really forgiving (like Adora in She-Ra, yeah she forgives Catra way too quickly, but to be fair, it tracks with who Adora is). Of course for the sweet spot, it helps to have several characters, some of which can be immediatly accepting and forgiving (example Aang in Avatar) and others can yell at the redemption arc character and only forgiving him later once he’s done more work to prove he means it (Katara).

But the redemption itself doesn’t hinge on the character being forgiven. You’re not done, once everyone has forgiven you, you gotta keep going, keep working. “But this character doesn’t deserve redemption” doesn’t really makes sense bc redemption, unlike forgiveness, isn’t something you’re given, it’s something you do. And it’s usually not something you’re ever fully done with. I mean, yes, in real life, you’re eventually kinda done with redeeming yourself from, say, yelling at your friend that one time, but you still need to not do it again. I don’t mean you gotta keep apologizing every single day, but redemption isn’t over, in the sense that there’s no set time after which you can do it again and not expect it to be fine or expect your friend to have forgotten that you’ve done this before too.  A huge part of redemption is simply Doing Better and you’re not ever done with that. And when we’re talking about fictional redemption arcs, it’s usually murder or smth anyway so yeah. You don’t just forget you did that

“Deserving” redemption only makes sense in the sense that, yes, these are fictional characters so in a way the writer IS “giving” them the redemption. Real people do redemption. Fictional characters are given redemption, bc someone’s gotta write them doing it. But I’m gonna say it, there is absolutely no action a character could do where you could not still write a very satisfying redemption arc. Because you write the character. No one is a villian in their own head, everyone has their reasons and you can always find some opportunity, some breaking point that makes them rethink, that makes them even just hesitate and the moment you have that you can write them changing and write them becoming better. Not necessarily forgiven by their victims, but redeeming themselves? Yeah.

But also. There’s nothing you can say you’d never symphatise with a character who’s done x or y, simply bc. That action could be in their backstory. Maybe you’ve already been drawn in for 3 seasons and now learn about the horrible thing they did and have been working hard to atone for ever since. If that’s well written, very few people will throw the dvd or the book across the room and decide they hate this character now. (Beautiful example here is Eliot Spencer from Leverage, bc, yeah we get hints from the start about what kind of man he is/was,  but the puzzle of just how bad builds slowly over time and by the time he’s standing in a park asking Parker not to ask her about the worst thing he’s ever done, you can Very Well put the pieces together and conclude some absolutely horrifying shit and yet and yet we’re all still here aren’t we? You wanna punch him in that scene? Or you wanna give him a hug? Yeah me too)

When you say a character doesn’t deserve a redemption arc, what you should say is you can’t and won’t forgive them and don’t think the characters should. And that’s fair! But there’s no action in real life or in fiction that doesn’t “deserve” redemption. Because redemption isn’t something you deserve, it is something you do

#redemption #redemption arcs #zuko #catra #eliot spencer #leverage #atla

[captain-spop-salt]

This lovely gem appeared on her page with no criticism

So Vi punching her sister in the FACE and BREAKING HER NOSE while calling her a JINX is excusable because "trauma/doing the best they can"

But a 6 year old scratching another 6 year old in a ptsd response is "abusing" the other 6 year old.

This is exactly the problem with the "but its abuse" argument because by defining abuse as some permanent relationship breaking thing, something to lord over the perpetrators head for the rest of their life regardless of the context or the development since, and then CHERRY PICKING what you consider abuse you make yourselves the abuse apologists you claim to hate.

Vi abuses her sister and its "She did her best 🥺"

Adora gaslights, hits, and diminishes Catras abuse and its "She was being abused and manipulated its not her fault 😭"

But when Catra exhibits ugly symptoms its "She needs to be held accountable" (with correcting her behaviour and helping save the universe apparently not being enough.) Its "She shouldn't get to be with Adora anymore " its "She should have stayed a bad guy and lived in a desert cut off from the deepest connection shes ever had." Its "the princesses weren't angry enough at Catra despite their anger at catra being rooted in the war and not personal betrayal (except adora)"

but when they ARE angry at Entrapta where it WAS a personal betrayal its all "B-but she thought she was abandoned. Them being mad at her is ABLEIST" (autistic person here no they're fucking not entrapta knew what she was doing hurt them and she didn't care because she got to science however she wanted and only cared so far as not to set off an unstable portal until she was reminded with them in season 5. The leash thing, yeah that wasn't great but the rest of it was very fucking justified hurt and anger over their "friend" literally designing robots to KILL THEM. )

I dont even want to know what these fucking awful ppl think of Jinx.

Abusive behaviour is not a one size fits all relationship ender, especially when it goes two ways and stems from an abusive environment and the people involved resolve to be better . And even if it was you constantly prove yourselves to be hypocrites on that front. Especially when you ship Glimmadora. Especially when you defend Vi or Adora or Glimmer from criticism of THEIR actions but vilify Catra, or Jinx or anyone else.

[dappercritter]

Random She-Ra Season 5 Thoughts: THE FINAL RAMBLING

Yep. I finally got all my crazy absurd thoughts about this gay adventure-romance-drama cartoon summarized into one incoherent yet fun to read computer document/article! ...four months after the show itself ended. Oh well, no one’s perfect. Anyways, there are a whole lot more insane observations than ever before, so I had to put it below a link so this thing didn’t back up my blog or any of yours. Hope you enjoy reading through these as much I enjoyed spouting them for no discernible reason other than I felt like it!

-I feel that since is the last season, I ought to talk about an important part of the show that I’ve been putting off: the animation. It’s… okay. It’s definitely smoother than what the original 80’s show and it’s brother series (heheh) looked like, but at the same time it still seems to suffer from similar limitations which causes some distracting moments of stiffness. But other than that, it’s pretty good. It’s no Titmouse or Studio Mir but it looks good and it gets the job done.

         -After all, let’s not forget: “Imperfection is beautiful!”

-Even when things are at their lowest, Adora is a jock with a heart of gold.

-Horde Prime and the Galactic Horde’s aesthetic feels like a mixture of Catholicism, Scientology, Heaven’s Gate, and modern Microsoft, and honestly, that just makes him creepier.

-Speaking of Horde Prime, he didn’t waste any time with destroying Bright Moon. …apparently.

-Furthermore, on the topic of his giant holographic messages, WAS THAT A FREAKING MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE MOVIE REFERENCE?!

-Boy, Glimmer and Catra sure got along quickly! It’s almost like they magically understand each other because they both assumed leadership roles and screwed up big time! …I guess.

         -Either that or this season is going to be a speedrun.

-Wow, the Rebellion sure got used to having a once-thought-dead king as well as a known enemy general/abuser running around their camp awful fast, didn’t they?

-Mara’s got a spaceship, a cyber girlfriend, a magic grandma, a dragon, a tragic backstory, AND a force ghost?! Dang, even in death, the girl’s got it all. No wonder everyone likes her!

-(*me looking at the TV rating at the start of episode*) “Why is language in there? Is there surprise cuss words or something in this season?” (*sees Horde Prime seize control of a clone for the first time*) “HOLY FREAKING SH—oh that’s why.”

-Applause to the crew for making the “dinner with Prime” scene for making a meal between a sparkly princess, a catgirl, and alien cult leader feel even more uncomfortable than it had a right to.

-(*me throughout the season whenever a clone was onscreen*) Is that Hordak? Is that him? Is that him? Is that him right there? Oh it is—oh no wait. … Is that h—

-Extra applause for having Glimmer learn from her grey-area wetwipe phase and refusing to sell out her friends again whilst telling the imperialist cult leader where to stick it.

-I would pay a sizeable portion of my life savings to hear what a Scorpia and Swift Wind duet would sound like.

         -In fact, I’d double it if it was just Scorpia singing.

         -Ah what the heck. I would triple it for an entire She-Ra musical!

-As happy as I am to see to see Entrapta interacting with the other princesses again, I have to say that their big reunion left me with some mixed feelings. Here’s a quick rundown:

         -Entrapta, a grown autistic woman, being led around on a leash by non-neurodivergent teenagers—again: that’s bad.

         -The Princesses confronting Entrapta about joining the Horde: that’s good!

         -The Princesses blaming all their problems with the Horde bots on Entrapta’s actions and her hyper fixations alone: that’s bad.

         -Entrapta explaining herself, admitting that she regrets her mistakes, and getting the Princesses to understand that she thinks and communicates differently, but in spite of that, she really does want help find Glimmer: that’s good!

         -Entrapta never gets to call out the Princesses for how poorly they treated her: that’s bad.

         -Entrapta saves the day and goes to space: that’s good!

         -Scorpia and Entrapta still haven’t interacted even though the former is with the Rebellion in the first place because she went to look for her because she is her best friend: …can I go home now?

-How nice! Michah finally got to shapeshift!

         -And he’s rocking that She-Ra outfit to boot!

-So is Darla a back up of Light Hope or do they just run on the same operating system and have the same voice?

-I could watch an entire season of Adora, Bow, and Entrapta going on space adventure in a rundown ship with their custom-made spacesuits, tbh.

-Is anyone else weirded out that Catra’s younger self looked at her in her flashback(?).

         -Actually what WAS happening there, anyhow?

-(*watching Bow’s spacewalk to save Glimmer*) “Is that a Gravity reference?” asked the man who never saw Gravity.

-Speaking of spacewalks, how did Glimmer survive those precious few seconds in space? Does the teleporter teleport a breathable atmosphere too?

         -Also, Catra, WHY did you think it would be a good idea to teleport Glimmer into space? I know you had a plan and the ship was right there but… Ah, never mind.

-Not that I’m complaining but Glimmer’s apology to the rest of the friend squad for her HORRIBLE plan last season went… surprisingly quickly.

-You know as cool as The Star Siblings are, being a quirky band of space-travelling siblings with cool powers and some trans rep to boot, I only have one small problem with them: weren’t there already Star Sisters on Etheria back in season 1?

         -That doesn’t sound right, but I don’t know enough about Masters of the Universe characters to dispute it.

-Entrapta confirmed pan, objectum, AND horny on main. Dang girl, you’re gonna have fun whether you got Hordak back or not…

-“The Velvet Glove” is both a menacing and stupid name for a decadent overlord’s mothership.

         -Wait, it’s from the 80’s canon? Oh. That kind of explains it, actually.

-Goshdangit, I wanted Catra to face punishment for her crimes, but I didn’t think that would involve going to evil alien conversion therapy!

         -Nor did I want her to die! For a second. Actually, since it obviously wasn’t going to last I was… weirdly okay with that part???

-Horde Prime seems awfully okay with Catradora. I mean he’s still super creepy and manipulative about it, but also oddly progressive for an evil brainwashing cult leader.

-(*Adora transforms into a She-Ra through seer will*) First of all, called it. Second of all, WOAH MAMA now that’s a glow up!

-Wrong Hordak did not have to be a thing, and yet, I’m glad that he is.

-Hordak remembers the LUVD crystal and Entrapta… Hordak remembers Entrap—! It’s happening! Oh my gosh, it’s happening! Everybody stay calm!

-Wow, Entrapta didn’t have to be so forgiving of Catra for everything she’s done to her but she did. Only I’m not sure if that was Entrapta taking the high road or the low road.

         -Or which road the crew took for that matter.

-I remember when I thought those “Chipped AUs” floating around here on tumblr were just something the fans came up with and that chipping people was not an actual despicable thing Prime does in canon. I miss those days.

-I know it’s not the same as before or the original design, but True She-Ra’s designs and powers? I think they slappin’.

-Hooray, Adora and Catra are finally making up! And it only took four and half seasons worth of communication failures, toxic villainous behaviour, and physical violence for Catra to snap out of it!

         -…We can go back to Entrapdak now, right?

-Poor Elberon. First they unknowingly adopt a double agent then get invaded by the Horde and now they’re getting brainwashed and chipped by the Galactic Horde. They might be a cute village, but they got some pretty lousy security.

-You know it’s cute that Micah is doing his best to be friends with Frosta and get back in touch with his dad-side, but look I can’t be the only one worried about how the local King is a less proactive leader than the princesses or the known war criminal/abuser, right?

-“The Perils of Peekablue” or as I like to call it, “You Thought ‘Boys Night Out’ Caught You Emotionally Off-guard? Hah! Watch This.”

-You know I didn’t think Scorpfuma would be a thing aside that one moment of flirting near the end of season 4, but they really pushed for it to be a thing! This is… actually pretty great! Perfuma’s not perfect, and I would have appreciated giving them a little more time to bond and form some real chemistry, but at least she reciprocates Scorpia’s sweetness instead of rebuffing it in increasingly aggressive fashion.

-I’m not sure what’s more concerning: that Mermista set a boat on fire, that it’s worded like she had a fling as part of some experimental phase, or that Sea Hawk is turned on by this.

-Peekablue might not be real, (I think?) but he is one dapper dude! Female-to-male redesigns could learn a thing or two from him.

-It involved them getting stung and seizuring, but that was a heck of a way to reintroduce Double Trouble! I swear I got watching them cycle through their transformations in some sort of physical reaction.

         -Or maybe that was just me worrying about their wellbeing…

-Okay, I get the Chips are huge, and actually rather clever threat, but how do these characters get chipped in the first place? I get there are chipped people who spread the chips throught the population but where do they get those from???

         -Do one of those Horde Prime drones just sneak behind someone, slap a chip on their nape then hand them a whole bagfull and say, “Beep boop beep, Horde Prime’s Light, blah blah blah. Alright have fun, kiddo”?

         -Or is it some sort of Alien: Covenant deal where they’re just floating around and Lord help you if one sticks to you?

-HOLY CRAP THEY ACTUALLY GOT SCORPIA TO SING! AND SHE WAS GREAT!

         -Oh shoot. Guess I owe the crew twice my life savings now…

-Entrapdak might be what got me into this show, but it’s Double Trouble that kept me around, so you can imagine how happy I was to see them make their grand reappearance!

-Conversly, you can imagine my disappointment when they just disappeared until the finale.

         -And on that note: HOW DID YOU GUYS LOSE DOUBLE TROUBLE?!

                  -You forgot to cherish them, didn’t you?

-So, Scorpia sacrifices herself just after finding a new girlfriend and gaining some newfound confidence, Mermista and Sea Hawk are split up,and Double Trouble didn’t join the main cast. Why can’t you just have fun like a normal cartoon, show?

-Gosh, I love me some shifting title cards!

-Is it just me or did they sneak in some more Annihilation references on Krytis?

         (-Said the guy who was too chicken to watch the movie and just read about it and watched a few clips online.)

-(*audibly sighs*) FINE. I guess I like Catradora now. Are you happy now, SPOP Crew? ARE YOU?!

-Hooray, Catra’s got a emotional support animal! And they’re a shapeshifting magic alien cat. Those are the best kind!

-Is it weird that I knew that weird glowing stuff on Krytis was just magic all along, or was it just not hidden very well. Anyways, I like Krytis. I like that we got to see a truly alien world with its own form of magic.

-Plus, we got a logical advancement of the magic versus science subtheme with magic being Horde Prime’s weakness! Neato!

-Getting back on the “which is worse?” wagon for a second, I don’t know what feels less right: that Wrong Hordak’s big revelation and his resolution to free himself and his brothers and friends from Horde Prime’s control is played humorously, or that Real Hordak should be the one having this moment.

-That bit with Castaspella and Shadow Weaver where she tells Casta about Etheria being a living thing with inherent magical property, or whatever, while we got a peaceful shot of some boar creatures sleeping was actually kind of nice. It would have been nicer though if it wasn’t part of a power hungry abuser’s obvious scheme. If only there was a kindly old witch lady character who was in touch with nature and knew just what to say when someone was feeling downOH WAIT.

-Furthermore… Why did Shadow Weaver and Castaspella need to have romantic tension?

-Seriously though, where’s our Madame Razz quota this season? Where’s my supportive magic grandma timelord at, yo?

-Yup, they speedran this season.

-I’m actually really disappointed we didn’t see more of an intergalactic new rebellion rising up to fight Horde Prime’s forces across the universe. Especially if it meant we got to see more Star Sibling action!

-Again, I adore Wrong Hordak but I keep wondering what was keeping the crew from just bringing in Original Flavour Hordak. (You know, aside from teasing us Entrapdak fans and trying to distract us with a loveable new character in the meantime.) I mean he could have done the whole infiltrating the clone squads and tricking them bit, too.

         -Heck, he could have done the wink, too!

-I’d gleefully point out Loo-Kee’s cameo this season but apparently, they already made some several seasons ago. That’s what I get for not rewatching the 80’s show and training my eyes first.

-(*sees Erelandians*) Are those freaking Toads and Toadettes?

-So, what’s keeping them from just hitting Spinerella’s chip again? Besides emotional baggage and gale force winds, I mean.

-Perfuma coming out of a cave scared out of her wits, demanding to know who’s there, clinging to her friends as soon as they come back, and balling her eyes out is a big, BIG mood.

-Frosta absolutely decking Catra in the face was nestled somewhere between cathartic and excessive.

         -Netossa spraying her with a bottle of water on the other hand…

-Oh, so Greyskull was the name of a Rebel Squad! I think. Meh, the important thing is we got an explanation and it still sounds cool.

-Leave it to a couple of dads to make a secret message out of a dad joke.

-You know I made fun of Light Hope for being creepy, but I swear that avatar from the Spire is even creepier. I don’t know if it’s her face—those dang blank eyes, man—or just that it she’s less animated than the real thing, but it just felt… off.

-Aww, Noelle made Netossa’s princess weakness illustrations! So cute!

-Forget episodes that deserves Emmys, Keston John deserves one for voicing Hordak, Horde Prime, all the clones, and several minor villains and giving each and every single one a distinct voice! Where my king’s respect, eh?

-Yes, Catra you had a small disagreement with Hordak. …Over sending his girlfriend and your “friend” to DIE IN A LITERAL LIVING HELL.

         -Sorry, I just had to get that out of my system.

-Why does Perfuma get pressured to get angry and go wild when Entrapta’s the one who’s had it the worst out of all them? Why can’t my gamer girl go berserk, dammit!?

-Okay, but really, how do these fricking chips work??? Are they parasite devices who store Horde Prime’s Baptizing Dew then slowly pump it into their host’s bodies? Do they have their own nervous systems? Are they technorganic? Also, how and why do we need to make these chips are bigger threat then they need to be?

-Horde Prime showing up on Hordak’s throne in grand Killing Joke style and casually throwing shades at his brother’s overblown attempts to impress him is pretty awesome, but it feels strangely underdeveloped. Hordak’s not there to have his hard work insulted and we never got to see Adora have any similar encounter with Hordak here before, so unless you look at it from the perspective of someone who has been here before in the Horde story like Catra it lacks the dramatic weight it should have had.

-Scorpia resisting the chip to save her new friends was pretty great, though.

-I swear, when they got to the scene where Adora and the others figured out that Shadow Weaver was grooming her so she could use her to get to the Heart of Etheria, I was mouthing “You B***H” through the whole thing.

-They really brought back Etherian deep magic just so they had something to make Micah threatening. …okay.

-Okay, the rest of “Failsafe” messed me up, so here’s a rundown on all the other messy thoughts I had while the show ripped my heart and ground it to dog food:

         -Entrapta and Hordak reuniting: Yay!

         -Swift Wind yanking her away before she can get through to him: Boo.

         -Catra encouraging Adora to try and take care of herself for a change: Yay!

         -Adora hurts Catra and she runs away: Boo.

         -Adora finally calling out Shadow Weaver on what an utterly horrible person she is: Yay!

         -Adora resolves to risk sacrificing herself to save the world: Bo—okay, seriously, was all this suffering really necessary, show?

-I know I mentioned in my previous She-Ra random thoughts that I supported Glimmadora, but I am okay with Catradora and Glimbow ending up canon. The only problem I have is how rushed they feel—moreso with Glimbow. With Catradora, the crew had an entire season to make it work again and they took it. Glimbow it feels like they were down to the last few episodes and went, “Oh right, we were gonna do something with these two!” then did their darndest to fit in some chemistry in between all the other stuff going down.

-As ominous as it was, the music where Horde Prime starts hacking Etheria honestly SLAPS.

-Okay, I know everyone is magic or something, but I am legit surprised getting electrocuted in water didn’t kill the heroes right then and there.

-Sea Hawk tries to flirt with his girl even as she’s trying to kill him. Truly, he is a man of taste.

-What do you know, Shadow Weaver can only do good when she’s (canonically!) punch drunk.

-You know a whole lot of this could have been avoided if Holo-Mara was Adora’s mentor instead of Light Hope.

-When I think about it, it was actually really clever to make Horde Prime the final villain for Adora to face: a domineering decadent man who’s been in power forever against a humble emotionally vulnerable compassionate young woman.

         -Not to mention the divide between cult-like oppression and progressive freedom. Or something.

-Holy crap, did the First Ones get a great freaking a Great Old One for a guard dog?!

-So, you guys seriously didn’t bring Angella back to reunite with her family OR mention her all season after the impact her death had on everyone all last season until Glimmer needs a power-up at the last possible minute and then you never bring her up again. That is absolutely a dick move in bird culture.

-Entrapta’s hacker sticker gives me life. Gamer girl gremlin princess forever!

-On the one hand, I’m disappointed that Adora and Catra don’t get to have an awesome couple battle against the security monster and win. On the other hand, Shadow Weaver is finally dead. YAY!

         -With apologies to the writers and especially Lorraine Toussaint. She did splendidly bringing this character to life and even if I hated Shadow Weaver, I adored the effort she put into making her one of the most emotionally complex villains I’ve ever seen.

-Words cannot, will not, and will never describe the pure joy that I experienced when I first saw Hordak’s big scene: standing up to and disowning his tyrant brother, saving Entrapta, declaring his love to her (albeit in a nicely lowkey fashion), and then throwing Horde Prime to his apparent doom Disney style with Entrapta cheering him with sheer glee. GOSH, it was everything I could have hoped for from this season!

         -Now if only they kept the deleted scene where they got a moment to themselves before Prime body-jacked him again like the creepy sonuvabich he is.

-Horde Prime just wouldn’t be a religious villain if he didn’t tell everyone to burn.

         -Bonus points for actually trying to burn the frigging planet.

-Aside from the idea of Adora switching to wearing a She-Ra themed dress everywhere in the future, the future vision was really quite sweet, and seeing Prime step in to ruin it made it all the more impactful.

-Can I just say that it’s absolutely wonderful that the show, for all it’s flaws, said  “**** senseless heroic sacrifices”?

-BREAKING: Lesbian cat finally makes up with her jock ex, has a canon kiss so pure it saves the world!

         -In other news, Catradora fans are still spoiled rotten.

-Wow, look at all those character comebacks they skipped through! Look, there’s the chefs from Dryl, Double Trouble, Huntara, the Horde Trio, Imp, Madame Razz—are you kidding me?!

-Grumbling aside, I actually find the idea of the Horde Trio and Imp getting involved in a G-rated science-fantasy version of the first Hangover movie quite amusing.

-Oh dang, they pulled a Castle in the Sky with the Velvet Glove!

-As nice as it was to see Aodra save Hordak from Horde Prime and destroy the latter through exorcism via sheer compassion, I’m rather disappointed we never got to see She-Ra go full Metal Gear Solid Rising: Revengence on any creepy old cult leaders.

         -Yeah, it would have gone against the “love conquers all” set up, but love takes on many forms, does it not? So, why can it not manifest as cleaving your mortal enemies with extreme prejudice to save your loved ones?

-Furthermore, in addition to Holo-Mara being a better mentor, Hordak raising Adora instead Shadow Weaver could have prevented a lot of similar problems. Maybe. Possibly.

         -Eh whatever, he has a lifetime’s worth of fanfiction to make up for it.

-ENTRAPDAK IS CANON, ALL IS RIGHT WITH THE WORLD.

-And so is Catradora and Glimbow! That’s nice, too.

-Aww, how sweet of them to skip through Catra and Scorpia, and Glimmer and Micah’s big reunions! It’s not like we’ve been waiting forever for this stuff or anything. HahahahAHAHAHDHAHAHFHAFHKSADJHFKAJHDfine.

-And so it all ends with everyone either friends, in love, or both, as heroes decide to make up for it all with a grandiose sequel promising more exciting space adventures we probably won’t see! HOORAY!

-All snarky ranting aside, I actually really enjoyed the finale. It was exciting, heartwarming, and above all it ended on happy, hopeful note without leaving too many frustrating questions unanswered. (*glares with utmost contempt at Voltron and Star vs. The Forces of Evil*)

-You know, this wasn’t bad for a final season, but I think this might have worked better as two seasons. Not in Netflix’s cheap “split a regular 13-episode season in two 6-7 episode long seasons” strategy, but I mean two full seasons with their own storylines leading up to the grand finale:

         -First, one that starts out with Horde Prime’s arrival the downfall of Etheria, focuses on the space adventures, ends with their return to Etheria and gives the characters time to recuperate from season 4.

         -Then, we have one final season that focuses on the Best Friend Squad’s Return to Etheria, Horde Prime’s plan, gives everyone more time to properly reconcile before ¾ of the entire cast gets chipped, sets up a new Rebellion made up of Princess Alliance and former Etherian Horde members, maybe even set up a proper Hordak redemption arc or something, and then our big happy ending.

-On a mostly unrelated note, I also feel that the whole show could have turned out even better if it had been either a dedicated science-fantasy war drama with some levity (like the good Star Wars shows or Avatar: The Last Airbender) or a lighthearted yet empowering slice-of-life action-adventure romcom (i.e. basically a well-made remake of the original show in the style of Adventure Time and Parks and Rec or something).

-My final random thought for this whole thing: we really could have used a triumphant end credits song or something. Aside from obviously recommending Fabulous Secret Powers, I would have also recommended the original 4 Non Blondes “What’s Going On,” a reprise of “Warriors,” Gorillaz’s “We Got the Power,” or (my favourite) Talking Head’s “(Nothing But) Flowers” since the ending scenes remind me of it.

Thanks again to the crew for giving me something to live for and/or complain about!

Now, let’s hope the He-Man reboots do as well...

#spop #she-ra and the princesses of power #spop s5 #spop spoilers #she-ra #entrapdak #catradora #adora #catra #entrapta #hordak #bow #glimmer #horde prime #double trouble #shadow weaver #perfuma #scorfuma #scorpia #glimbow #king micah #castaspella #spinnerella #netossa #frosta #mermista #sea hawk #madame razz #mara #light hope

[tvandenneagram]

She-Ra and the Princesses of Power: Glimmer - Type 8w7

Glimmer is courageous, impulsive and caring. Glimmer really wants to fight for the Rebellion so that she can protect her home in Bright Moon. 

At her best, Glimmer becomes less impulsive and more mindful of the consequences of her actions. She is a very loyal and supportive friend, as we see through her friendships with Adora, Bow and even Catra later.

At her worst, Glimmer can act without thinking of the consequences, leading to problems for the Rebellion and the rest of Etheria. For example, she goes against the wishes of Adora and the others to activate the Heart of Etheria because she thinks that it will destroy the Horde permanently. 

8s do not want to be seen as weak or powerless, and we can see this clearly in Glimmer’s personality. She desperately wants to be taken seriously by her mother Angella and hates that Angella tries to shelter her from the world. Glimmer worries that people think she is a weak princess and wants to prove these assumptions wrong. 

She often clashes with Angella, as she is much more active and reckless than her mother. In the early seasons, Glimmer would often rebel against her mother’s wishes because she wanted to fight for the Rebellion. Angella was deathly afraid of anything bad happening to her daughter because she had lost Micah, leading to her chastising Glimmer for her reckless behaviour.

Glimmer wants to protect Bright Moon and is integral in re-establishing the Rebellion. She is a great leader and will make the difficult decisions when it is necessary. She is very protective of her friends and will do anything for them, even if it results in negative consequences for herself. For example, when Adora was about to get her mind erased by Shadow Weaver, Glimmer persevered in teleporting and saved Adora from Shadow Weaver. However, this resulted in her powers glitching, showing that she is very selfless at her core.

Glimmer often clashes with Adora when making decisions for the group, as both want to be the leader. This leads to tension between the two of them, as they have very different ways of approaching situations. Double Trouble is also able to recognise this and use it to distract Adora and Glimmer for the Horde.

Glimmer’s relationship with Bow shows some of her best and worst traits. Sometimes, Glimmer can be a bit self-absorbed and neglect Bow’s feelings. However, she would also do anything for Bow and tries very hard to repair their relationship in s5. Bow is also able to balance her out and keep her calm.  

Glimmer shows her 7 wing as she is more impulsive than an 8w9 would be. She is also more playful due to the influence of her 7 wing.

Tri-type: 8w7 - 6w7 - 2w1

Some quotes to describe Glimmer’s motivations

“It's time for us to take back our home. Together we will push out the Horde, once and for all!”

“That's because you failed to make a successful observation check. If we're going to retake the pass, we have to be prepared for anything.“

“It's gonna be so much fun! And Princess Frosta is hosting it this year in the Kingdom of Snows! Her magic is incredibly powerful. She'd be a huge get for The Rebellion!“

“You're going about this all wrong. We're not going to win by sneaking. We gotta take the action to them!”

“No. I'm Queen Glimmer of Bright Moon, and you will leave my friends alone.”

“Welcome to the Bright Moon Armory! Well it's not really but I've been sneaking weapons and stashing them in here for months!“

“They're going to be sorry they ever tried to mess with Bright Moon.”

Glimmer: “I'm not going to hide inside the castle while our people are in danger. I'm the Queen. You don't give me orders.”

Bow: “Ok, I get that you're upset, but...”

Adora: “Don't talk to Bow like that.”

Bow: “Adora, it's fine, Glimmer's just...”

Glimmer: “I need to stop the Horde. Any way I can...We're done for today.”

Glimmer: “At least you have powers, which is more than I've got. But it doesn't matter. I don't need magic to fight!” Angella: “Glimmer, not only are you without your powers but you’re still glitching, it's too dangerous.” Glimmer: “But mom!”

#glimmer #glimmeradora #glimbow #she ra #she ra enneagram #spop enneagram #spop #glimmer she ra #glimmer spop #glitra #glitradora #type 8 #8w7 #8w9 #enneagram #enneagram 8 #enneatypes #ennea 8 #character analysis #character breakdown #character profile

[arethereanyoriginalusernames]

Spooky babbles about RENT (the Broadway Musical (about assholes ))

We all have our guilty pleasures, or at least enjoy things that we acknowledge are bad. I’m sure that you and I can both name examples of these things specific to us.

It’s also likely that, like me, when someone makes a compelling video essay about something that you’ve never seen, that you agree with that person. Only to become exposed to more of it, and then you realize that “hey some of this is pretty good”, but then you become super conflicted bc you know that it’s bad, but you still enjoy aspects about it.....

I’m just making this about me, aren’t I? Welph, let’s do this proper and make another essay, bc I totally have time, and I totally won’t regret this later when I have a million things to do:)

.... oh quarantine, what have you done to me~?

... so, Lindsey Ellis. I consume her content regularly, and I would absolutely say that she’s probably one of the best YouTubers nowadays. You might remember her from her nostalgia chick days, but since distancing herself from that character, she makes video essays on several topics, a lot of them pertaining to popular shows and stories. If you write stories or enjoy creating characters and whatnot, I would make her channel a must to check out.

She also has a podcast on Spotify called “Musicalsplaining”, which I would also recommend you check out. It’s a podcast she does with her friend Kaveh, who dislikes musicals. They both watch a musical, and have a discussion over it, and it can get pretty funny due to their discussions being unscripted banter between two buds stuck in quarantine.

Lindsey has done both a video on a musical called RENT, and she and Kaveh covered it in their podcast. If you want a more funny coverage of it, I’d say listen to the podcast, as both Lindsey and Kaveh basically bond over their mutual rage, which is honestly beautiful. For a more in depth look at how RENT misrepresents the AIDs crisis, the lgbt+ community, and is just a bad story in general, check out her video essay on RENT on YouTube.

As you can probably guess, I’ve listened to both the video and the podcast. At least 8 times each (seriously, they’re really good). Now, I had never watched Rent before, nor had I listened to the soundtrack. The most I did was read the synopsis on Wikipedia. And I still haven’t watched the musical... but I currently have over half the soundtrack downloaded on Spotify.

So.... yeah. And after listening to the soundtrack, I have some thoughts. I don’t disagree with Lindsey’s take on Rent, honestly I still 100% agree with everything that she said, but now... something’s different. I see potential in Rent, and I see some gold hidden in what is basically a steaming pile of narcissism masked as “being artistic”. And that actually makes Rent that much more frustrating for me.

I’ll assume that despite my recommendations, you might not feel like listening to Lindsey’s coverage of Rent. While I still recommend you do so, since she explains the issues better than I ever could, I’ll do my best to give you as brief of an explanation as I can.

Rent is a rock musical loosely based on the opera La Boheme. It follows a group of “struggling artists” attempting to survive in New York during the AIDs/ HIV crisis. It’s one of the first popular Broadway musicals that featured LGBT+ characters, and it was rather successful when it was a new thing. Then years past, people forgot about it, then a terrible movie adaptation was made. Said movie caused a lot of people to realize that maybe Rent wasn’t actually that good.

The heroes of our story are as follows.

We have Roger, one of the more decent people here (which isn’t saying much), who’s a former drug user who’s trying to stay clean from drugs. He lost his last girlfriend to suicide, and he’s currently dying from AIDs. He’s trying to write one great song before he dies so he can leave some kind of legacy.

Mark is a wannabe filmmaker who exploits people’s misfortune for his own passion project (without their consent). He likes to film and romanticize the plight of the homeless while doing fuck all to help. He’s struggling financially, so he considers it fair to not pay for anything bc he’s an artist and being poor is admirable or something. Also, not only is he a privileged white kid with rich parents who could help him, but he refuses to contact them, he also quits a decent job bc he can’t express himself artistically. I wish I was kidding.

Mimi is a stripper with a drug addiction and AIDs. She’s also the love interest for Roger. While logically, it’d be a bad idea for Roger, someone who is trying to be clean of drugs, to not get involved with Mimi, the story wouldn’t have you believe that. She tries to get him to do drugs with her and “live”, and the story tries to do a thing by having her fake die by aids, only to be revived and cured by Roger singing. I wish I was kidding.

Maureen is a narcissist who gaslights her partners, has a weird job as a performance artist, and is bisexual so of course she has to be super slutty and flirtatious, and dance around the idea of cheating on her gf, Joanne, who’s this super smart, serious gal who leads protests for social justice.

Collins and Angel are the local maybe adora-gays, maybe adorable trans x cis person couple. (It depends on the adaptation and audience interpretation whether Angel is a drag queen or trans). Angel takes in an ailing Collins to live with her, and she also gets super rich by killing a dog. Collins is an anarchist currently fighting the aids epidemic. They’re a cute couple, but then Angel dies of aids bc we need a sad, and then Collins starts robbing atms in memory of his dead lover. I wish I was kidding.

Yes, I skipped over some stuff, but kids, this is a Tumblr post, and we’re already dealing with an essay here. And Wikipedia is right there. Basically, all you need to know is that Rent is a musical about assholes justifying their behaviour by being like “oh, but we’re artists!!!”. Oh yeah, and there’s also a guy called Benny who’s a former friend, and the only decent person here despite being portrayed as a bad dude, but I honestly don’t think I can remember anything beyond that for the life of me.

So, clearly Rent isn’t perfect. But, it’s hard to deny its impact. After all, it featured a main cast where half of the characters are POC and LGBT+ . Mind you, it was written by a straight man who “knew some gay people”. But, at the time, it was at least better than nothing.

And one aspect of Rent that people still appreciate to this day are the songs. And honestly? The majority of it is pretty great. A lot of people might recognize Take Me as I Am and Seasons of Love, two iconic songs brought to this world by Rent. And the rest of the soundtrack is great.... well, it’s better if you can make yourself forget the context of the songs, and look over some poorly aged lyrics. Light My Candle and I’ll Cover You are pretty cute songs, Goodbye Love has some great vocals, Another Day fucking slaps, and la Vie Boheme is a fun listen despite some weird lyrics.

While listening to the soundtrack, I realized something. A lot of these songs are great.... out of context. Another Day is great, until you remember that Roger is being portrayed as unwilling to live life bc he’s trying to stay clean of drugs. Yes, he likes Mimi, but there’s a pretty legitimate reason why he shouldn’t. And yet he’s in the wrong for... being concerned about his health? La Vie Boheme is soured when you remember that the cast is doing this entire performance after the restaurant owner begs them “no, not tonight, please!” Like, the guy’s doing his job and trying to run a business, but fuck him, let’s piss off people who don’t agree with us! And Take Me Or Leave Me is basically Maureen accusing Joanne of being too controlling and not accepting, when Joanne is taking issue with how Maureen is flirting with others constantly and is dancing around the line of being unfaithful. And Maureen’s logic is, I shit you not, “oh, but I just can’t resist temptation, and I’m attractive, and as long as I’m in your bed and not someone else’s, it’s ok!”

This... made me think. Maybe all Rent needs is a rewrite. An update. Something like Rent can probably work, but the misunderstanding of how poverty, aids, and societal unfairness works ultimately drags it down. Most of all, I think that Rent is an example of how a Broadway show can have great music, but that’s only part of it. If you fail in story and characters, the music won’t save you.

Let me know what you guys think about this.

I apologize for wasting your time,

- Spooky

[littlehollyleaf]

(I had a really long, detailed version of this....... but Tumblr ate it D’: so this is... heavily abridged, sorry!)

Tagged by the ever lovely @castiel-saved-me-from-myself​ <3

pick 10 ships without reading the questions

Interesting... ok!

1. Dean/Cas (obviously)

2. Aziraphale/Crowley

3. Nygmobblepot

4. Foxma

5. Babitha

6. Amy/Rory

7. Nomi/Amanita

8. Eve/Flynn

9. Catradora

10. Cosima/Delphine

1. Do you remember the episode/scene/chapter that you first started shipping 6?

I think I started shipping Amy/Rory during the Venice fish monster ep - cos that was when I felt Amy really did love him back and they had a future together. Before I suspected that her running away with the Doctor was a sign she and Rory weren’t right for each other.

2. Have you ever read a FanFiction about 2?

Only read a handful of Ineffable fic. Overall I’m perfectly happy with the canon alone.

3. Has a picture of 4 ever been your screen saver/profile picture/tumblr?

Yes I’ve had Foxma themed phone backgrounds and a tumblr header :)

4. If 7 were to suddenly break-up today, what would your reaction be?

Disbelief and disapproval. Nomi and Amanita were one of the great constants of Sense8 for me. I think a break up would be out of character for them tbh. Plus it would be denying the black and trans characters a rare example of a happy ending, which would suck.

5. Why is 1 so important?

I wrote such a detailed thing about how DeanCas is not only important to me personally but also how I feel it’s been important for TV/media in general... ugh, tumblr!

In a nutshell - this ship helped me better myself in various ways. It introduced me to fandom,  which boosted my confidence and independence via increased socialisation; it encouraged me to write more, which improved my writing skills; meta discussions educated me on lots of issues, inc. but not limited to abuse, sexuality, gender identit, autism and racism.

I also genuinely believe that the loud and open fandom support of the ship has been a significant help in the ongoing battle for more and better queer rep in media.

6. Is 9 a funny ship or a serious ship?

Serious! Catra and Adora’s relationship is a core part of the whole show, relating to lots of the wider themes of abuse, toxic behaviour, growth and forgiveness. Plus the significance of a same sex romance involving the lead character in a CHILDREN’S CARTOON really cannot be overstated.

(but it is also cute and funny sometimes :p)

7. Out of all of the ships listed, which ship has the most chemistry?

I’ve spoken before about having issues with the concept of ‘chemistry.’ If I ship characters it’s usually because I find the combination of their characterisation and story arcs interesting/compelling. I often don’t notice (or I guess care about?) chemistry.

So I think I’m not qualified to answer this one.

8. Out of all of your ships listed, which ship has the strongest bond?

Agreeing with @castiel-saved-me-from-myself​ here - you can’t really beat the Ineffables millenia long romance :)

9. How many times have you read/watched 8’s fandom?

I’ve rewatched The Librarians 2 or 3 times now. It’s DAFT. But it’s fun. And Eve and Flynn make me feel warm and fuzzy.

10. Which ship has lasted the longest?

Again, as @castiel-saved-me-from-myself​ said - it’s gotta be the Ineffables, both within AND outside of the story, since Good Omens was originally published over 30 years ago and the Zira/Crowley shippers have been going strong all that time. Otherwise it’s DeanCas.

(though idk if Catradora was a ship back when the original She Ra cartoon was airing, or when the original cartoon was made, so it’s possible that is also a contender!)

11. How many times, if ever, has 2 broken up?

Lol at @castiel-saved-me-from-myself​ for getting Nygmob for this one, as their relationship is, like, 90% break up :P

For the Ineffables though it’s basically just the once - when Zira chooses Heaven over Crowley. Not made such a Big Deal in the book IIRC, but in the show it’s the infamous Bandstand Break Up scene.

All other separations are only minor, temporary squabbles imo. Which is what makes the Bandstand scene so PAINFULLY, BEAUTIFULLY, ANGSTY AND EMOTIONAL and why I love it so! 

12. If the world was suddenly thrust into a zombie apocalypse, which ship would make it out alive, 2 or 8?

I figure angels and demons probably can’t be killed by zombies, so the Ineffables are the most likely.

But Eve and Flynn did actually face off against zombie-ghost things in an alt universe during a whole Loom of Fate plot and survived, so I think they’d probably also make it.

13. Did 5 ever have to hide their relationship for any reason?

No, Babs and Tabs were always open about being together, even when Tabs was also in a relationship with Butch.

I might argue they hid the depth of their feelings for each other though, even from themselves, and instead made out what they had together was just a casual ‘friends with benefits’ type thing.

Though Tabs did hide things a little when she sent assassins after Jim cos she blamed him for putting Babs in a coma. She clearly knew her brother would disappprove, which is why she didn’t tell him what she was doing. I guess that kinda counts as hiding her relationship with Babs? She was trying to conceal how much Babs mattered to her?

14. Is 4 still together?

Lol, Foxma were never together (ALAS!). But the show did end with their lingering fondness for each other intact I think.

15. Is 3 canon?

Is Nygmobblepot canon? Rather a touchy question for the fandom tbh.

If we are talking EXPLICIT canon - then no. 

They never got a kiss or a MUTUAL love declaration (and they had a controversial ‘we’re brothers’ exchange in the penultimate episode) - ergo there is not enough, imo, to say they ended the show officially romantically involved.

However, Ozzie DID EXPLICITLY DECLARE HIS ROMANTIC LOVE for Ed, and that was never rescinded. There is also LOTS OF SUBTEXT floating around Ed to imply he reciprocates. Plus they did end the show together as clear Partners in Crime.

So is Nygmob subtextual canon?

I would say yes.

But explicit, CANON canon?

A frustrating no that fandom remains, understandably, critical about.

16. If all 10 ships were put into a couple’s Hunger Games, which couple would win?

I think a toss up between Nygmob and Babitha - because everyone else has too many morals that would hold them back from killing :p

(and since Ed and Oz have both bested Babs and Tabs in the past I lean towards them... but it would depend on when in Gotham canon the games were happening!)

17. Has anybody ever tried to sabotage 10’s ship?

Breaking up Cosima and Delphine was a LITERAL PLOT POINT of Orphan Black at one point, so very much yes! I forget the details (the show got very twisty, with lots of different organisations working on different agendas in the shadows), but I’m pretty sure Delphine was shot because she was protecting Cosima. I remember it BROKE MY HEART and I thought it was a casebook example of Bury Your Gays. But, spoiler: it wasn’t ;)

18. Which ship would you defend to the death and beyond?

Going with DeanCas, because I think that, historically, it’s the one that’s been in most need of defending.

19. Do you spend hours a day going through 1’s tumblr page?

Not anymore I’m afraid. Though 3 or so years ago I used to spend most of my free time on DeanCas and spn meta. Ah, nostalgia.

20. If an evil witch descended from the sky and told you that you had to pick one of the ten ships to break up forever or else she´d break them all forever, which ship would you sink?

Foxma. Because while I adore the idea of a messy, confused ~something between them, in my heart I know that Foxy deserves better :P

I was too tired to bother with tagging the first time I completed this - DEF not gonna bother now!

Play if you want - it’s fun :D

#a true but boring story #about me

[jimlingss]

Chess of Ice 2

Read the Original

Read the Final Instalment 

➜ Words: 14.4k

➜ Genres: 97% Fluff, 3% Angst, Sports!AU

➜ Summary: Jeon Jungkook used to be a rising star, aka. hockey captain of— you know what? It doesn’t matter anymore because now he’s holding a broomstick in his hand, sweeping the ice and throwing stones towards a target. And it’s great. He genuinely means it. Curling is his life now and this is his family. The only problem that seems to exist is YOU. You who can’t seem to see him at all!!!!

➜ Warnings: Swearing.

➜ Notes: Finally, the sequel is here! Enjoy this fluffy mess, y’all.

You keep him going.   The ice is cold beneath Jungkook’s feet. He’s never felt closer, toes on the slippery surface, heels rooted to the sheet, breath seen each time he exhales. The tips of his fingers tingle, mind tickling pleasantly. He lives and thrives on the ice, like this is the only place he’s meant to exist.   But it’s not always fun and games. The atmosphere is tense and sweat drips from his hairline to his chin, doe eyes narrowed into the target at the very end. The two of them are waiting at the end of the sheet, knees bent, brooms in hand and ready. Jungkook inhales a sharp breath and looks to you for guidance, the rightful leader of the team.   You’re the one who steadies his doubts.   “Where should I throw? I’m thinking a guard.”   You shake your head. “No, do a takeout shot.”   He knows better than to second guess your strategy, so he pushes his weight forward, trailing leg extended behind him, sliding foot flat on the ice. Jungkook calculates carefully, breath halted in his throat. And with careful precision practiced over the past year, he throws the stone and releases, letting it curve on the ice.   The young man rises and stands beside you as you’re shouting, “Yes! Yes! Go! Harder! Lots of line!”   He watches with an intense gaze, nodding and muttering, “Yes….yes...”   “Harder, Taehyung,” Yoonji gasps at him.   “It’s heavy,” he pants, hands working hard.   You shout at the two of them. “Where is it?!”   “Top of house!”   “OFF!!!” you scream at the top of your lungs, startling Jungkook and nearly causing his eardrums to explode. Immediately, Taehyung and Yoonji halt their movements, stepping back.   You and Jungkook are huddled up, nearly having your cheeks pressed together as you focus your vision, squinting and watching. The stone slows and hits the opponent’s stone. As it gets knocked off the button, it collides with another of theirs, sweeping it off the house completely.   Jungkook’s perfectly thrown shot stops, taking the opponent’s spot, center of the target.   It’s a flawless double takeout.   Cheers erupt from the stands. Namjoon and Adora are giving a standing ovation, clapping furiously over their mittens. Taehyung and Yoonji are shrieking in glee, arms in the air. Even the opponents sigh with a smile, admitting that it was a good one.   Impulsively and instinctively, Jungkook pulls you in for a hug. His arms wrap around your shoulders and he pulls you close with a grin, cheering like a little kid who can’t contain his excitement in his body.   You giggle, patting his back. “It’s not over yet!”   From starting with nothing, the four of you have worked your way up and developed into one of the best curling teams the country has. Not just in mixed, but all across the board. All of you have been picking up championships without needing to blink. It’s proven by the sheer amount of awards, certificates, plaques and certificates that the team has won. While building teamwork and skill took time, harnessing and growing it at a gradual pace, the effort was worth it.   With the Olympics emerging in the next year, Jungkook wouldn’t have it any other way.   As he looks around, down at Yoonji and Taehyung, the members of the men’s team and women’s team on the bench coming to watch, the two coaches, he is relishes in the fact that this is his family now.   Jungkook’s eyes stray off towards you. His gaze softens with endearment when you smile at him and he’s forced to swallow down the thick lump forming in his throat, making him speechless at how brilliant you are. “Ready?”   “Always.”   //   It’s taken some getting used to, but Jungkook likes to think that he’s gotten the hang of things. It’s not every single day that he has to force himself onto the ice, practice until he can’t stand up anymore or work out until he feels his arms shaking. The dietary restrictions and practice schedules are a lot less strict as well, at least compared to what he was used to growing up. Though it’s not like he’s completely laid back — Namjoon and Adora would never allow such a thing.   He still has to go to the gym and do full body workouts, keep in shape despite Yoonji and Taehyung always grumbling when they have to pick up any weights heavier than chip bags. But everyone knows it’s necessary. You’ve been playing all your life and it's taken a toll on your body, giving you an imbalance in your hip flexors and knees...not like he’s personally observed...you told him, of course. Anyways….wait…..what was he thinking about again?   “You know,” Yoonji smacks her lips together, releasing the straw between her mouth. “You’re not half bad these days.”   The corner of his mouth pulls into a smirk. “Thanks.”   All four of you are walking on your way to the stadium, drinking frothy smoothies that are probably double the calorie intake, but if the coaches aren’t around, no one particularly cares.   “Taehyung’s the slacker now.”   “Um, excuse me? I’m standing right here.” The male in question blinks hard in shock, outright offended by the statement. “What’s that supposed to mean?”   “You heard me. You’re bad.”   “B-B-Bad?!”   “That’s not true,” you pipe up beside Jungkook, giving a slight glare towards the female.   “Okay, you’re not horrible. But if we had to rank all our skills, you’re at the bottom now.”   Taehyung gasps over dramatically, hand pressing over his chest where his heart is. “What’s your rank then?”   “Second best,” she scoffs out like it’s entirely obvious. “Y/N is the best. Jungkook is third. So don’t drag us down, Kim.”   Jungkook grins while you sigh hopelessly. The male on the chopping block opens his mouth again, about to defend himself, but before he can say anything, he’s interrupted by a sharp—   “Hey!”   Yoonji doesn’t turn around. Her body jolts at the rumbling voice and she quickens her pace while the three of you stop in your spots. Jungkook’s eyes grow wide as a spitting image of Yoonji comes closer. Both you and Taehyung seem to freeze up as well, but for different reasons.   The individual in question has dark hair, sleepy eyes, a baby face with chubby cheeks and clear skin, but he looks aged at the same time. The man grins, hands in his black hoodie pocket, wearing a smile that shows all his gums. “Yoonji!”   “Leave me alone!” she shouts and when she realizes no one’s following her, she groans audibly and marches back with hands on her hips to ward him off. Yoonji has her smoothie at her side and she secures the duffel bag strap over her shoulder, eyes narrowing in on him. “What the hell are you doing here?”   “Is that a way to greet your older brother?”   “Shut it, Yoongi.”   He shrugs. “I thought I’d come by to watch a game.”   “You have nothing better to do?”   “Precisely.” He grins again to her dismay. Jungkook is bewildered, looking between them, mind boggled. It’s like Yoonji is talking to a mirror, but this reflection of her is slightly taller and has shorter hair. As Jungkook stares, Yoonji’s duplicate looks over with a reserved smile. “Taehyung! How are you? It’s been a while.”   “I...uh...I’ve been fine.” The brunette swallows hard and steps back, intimidated despite being larger in size.   Yoongi turns his head and acknowledges you with a smile. You don’t speak a single word or make any changes with your blank expression, standing completely still like a stone statue. Jungkook’s taken back, lifting a brow. Your behaviour reminds him of the first time he met you.   The older male’s eyes finally stray off onto Jungkook as he’s busy gazing at you. “You must be…?”   “O-oh. Jungkook. Jeon Jungkook.” They shake hands. “I’m new...kind of.”   “He’s been around for more than a year.” Yoonji rolls her eyes. “Are you done here?”   “I’m allowed to be here, aren’t I?”   “There aren’t spectators allowed during the game. Sorry. Members only.   “Really? Cause I checked the website and it says differently.”   There’s a pause. “...I hate you.” Yoonji spits it out, left eye twitching when her brother wears a gummy grin in victory, and she goes stomping off. “Don’t get in our way, Yoongi.”   “What’s there to get in the way of?”   As she disappears, Taehyung also takes the opportunity to escape and Jungkook follows suit, leaning in and dropping his voice. “That’s Yoonji’s older brother?”   “Yeah, I told you about him once, remember?” Taehyung’s whispering at a low volume and he takes a glance behind his shoulder while sweating bullets. “He scares me.”   Jungkook takes a glimpse as well and Yoongi’s innocently strolling and admiring the architecture of the building they were all approaching with pouty lips similar to his sister’s. “He seems friendly enough.”   “He swore me out once. I thought I was going to piss myself.”   “What did you do?” He shoots his teammate a skeptical look. Taehyung got on everyone’s nerves at some point with how obnoxious his personality could get sometimes. Jungkook wouldn’t be all that surprised if it was his fault for angering a Min family member.   “Dumped too many creams into his coffee.” Jungkook lets out an ‘oh’ while wondering if Taehyung was sent on a coffee run at some point or how that whole ordeal would’ve even happened. “He must be on his break. He goes to school at a different place...I wonder how long he’s going to stay for.”   It piques Jungkook’s curiosity and he can’t help turning towards you, the way your steps have slowed down and you’re lagging behind the rest of the team entering the stadium. Yoongi seems to quicken his pace and catches up to you. “So, everything’s been good, Y/N?”   “Uh-huh.”   You’re ghosting Yoongi in real life, giving him the cold shoulder and acting like your tongue’s been cut off. The conversation dies right then and there.   It shouldn’t be all that shocking to Jungkook since he knows you’re reserved around strangers. But there’s something deeper in the pits of his stomach, his intuition that says it’s not so simple. He just knows that the way you’re acting is odd.   But every unimportant thought is pushed aside as you all head into the rink. The opposing team is already there, decked out in their gear and practicing on the ice. Jungkook quickly recognizes them, having watched tapes and clips of other teams to assess the competition. Their seriousness and sincerity to the sport is slightly intimidating, but it also acts to fire everyone else up.   “Nice to meet you.” The skip, Sujin, moves down the line and shakes each person’s hand. “We’ve heard a lot about you guys. You’re one of the most talented and young teams out there.”   “It’s really nothing,” Taehyung replies sheepishly while Yoonji basks openly in the title.   After introductions are done and all the coaches meet each other, Adora also confiscating Yoonji’s smoothie, the friendly match begins. It’s only a game that was arranged for fun and to practice, nothing formal like a competition. But that doesn’t mean anyone’s less competitive.   “Would you like to start first?” you ask in a small voice, coming across as timid and weak. Jungkook has long recognized it’s an advantage considering most opponents tend to underestimate your abilities — Yoonji considers it the ultimate secret weapon.   The captain of the other team smiles softly, falling right into the trap. “No, it’s alright. You can start first.”   “Alright.” You shake hands and the team splits. Jungkook and Taehyung walk towards the middle, brushes in hand as you and Yoonji stride to the other end, the latter female preparing her first throw.   Namjoon shouts a few encouragements from the bench. A few members have come out to support the mixed-team as well, including Minsik who’s drinking his herb-essence red ginger tea from his thermostat. Yoongi’s also casually leaning back, watching the whole ordeal in mild interest. Yoonji doesn’t seem to be all that bothered, but Jungkook catches you glancing at the male every so often.   Still, the game continues and you discuss setting up a guard shot. Yoonji nods, getting into position without any more time to waste.   The first stone is thrown and both Jungkook and Taehyung don’t sweep much. It ends up short of the house, but in the direct line of the button. The opposing team compliments her, but their own shot is nothing less of being impressive.   It goes back and forth for a while.   Yoonji throws the first two, Taehyung throws the two after that and then it’s Jungkook’s turn to set down the brush and head over. While you’d usually greet him with a bright smile, this time there’s a grimace gracing your features.   “What’s wrong?” Jungkook asks in a hushed tone. You huddle up with him, discussing strategies while the opposing team does the same.   “Nothing.” You shake your head, albeit the worried frown mars your features. “They’re really good, that’s all.”   He’s surprised by your comment. The opponent team didn’t seem all that special, nothing out of the ordinary actually. He was fairly relaxed, as was Taehyung and Yoonji, but then again, it might be too early to tell. He trusts your judgment above all and stays wary.   Jungkook throws his two draw shots, setting it up for you. It’s well done, but when the opposing team goes on, they do a smooth takeout on all your team’s shots, shooting both your stones out of the house in a single throw of their own.   The end concludes with the opponents gaining three whole points.   After fifteen minutes, another eight stones are thrown, two from each team member. It’s another loss on your end. And after that, the failure repeats. On the fourth round, Jungkook’s turn comes again and he notices how both Namjoon and Adora have gotten quiet on the bench. Yoonji’s hands are shaking in anger, looking like she’s about to snap her broom in half and Taehyung is blindly confident as usual.   “I think we’re going to lose.” You frown and he can’t help agreeing with your sentiment. “They’ve been playing conservatively and then aggressively. We haven’t been defending as well as we should’ve and my last shot ends up useless.”   “They’ve aced their hit and rolls,” he acknowledges and you nod.   “It’s too late to change tactics now. We would need to get nine points in the next four rounds and that’s just…”   “You think we should forfeit?” Jungkook reads your expression and he sighs, giving up. “Okay.”   You look to him, valuing his opinion and trying not to doubt your own. “What do you think?”   “No, I agree.” All the points you’ve made are valid, he can see it as clear as day now and the team morale has severely fallen. It’s not fun anymore and that defeats the purpose of the game.   All four of you gather again and there’s a ripple of murmurs, the referee calling for a short break.   “We’re not doing well,” Yoonji admits and rolls her shoulders, acting like everything’s recoverable. “Probably because fucking Yoongi’s here. Knew he should’ve left. He’s bad luck.”   “Yeah well…” Jungkook clears his throat, knowing the news is not going to be taken well. “Y/N and I think we should forfeit.”   Immediately, she scoffs and Taehyung frowns in confusion. “Wait, what? Why?”   “We’re not going to win. They have nine points.”   “We can catch up and get a draw.” She crosses her arms, brow quirking. “This team has never forfeited before and we’re not starting now.”   “Yoonji, there’s nothing wrong with forfeiting.” You are firm, unwavering in the face of her oncoming rage. “We’re not going to score nine points. You and I both know that.”   “Alright, I get this is a tight match, but we can set up a corner guard in the next end and we can direct play towards the center of the sheet,” her voice moves up a pitch, almost pleading desperately.   “Jungkook could do a come around,” Taehyung suggests, but you shake your head.   “They’ve mastered hit and stays. It’s just not possible for us to get nine shots in the next four ends. It’s unlikely.”   “I agree,” Jungkook voices his own opinion, backing you up and showing his support. “We’ll just waste time if we keep playing. We can always do a rematch with them later after practicing more. Now we know one of their strategies, so we can be better next time.”   Yoonji is at wit’s end, gritting her teeth and hissing, “We can still win.”   “You’re being irrational and your pride is getting in the way,” you chide back.   “Taehyung say something!” She turns to him and he’s surprisingly composed, all traces of playful Taehyung missing and replaced with someone focused and serious.   “I agree with Yoonji. I don’t think we should forfeit just yet when there’s still a slight chance. If we play conservatively, then aggressively and switch back, I think we have a solid chance or at least we can get a draw.”   “See? There!”   “No, we’re not going to play anymore.” You are stubborn, more than the two of them. “They know we’re going to lose, so we should just do the right thing and forfeit.”   The tall brunette scoffs. “Who cares about what they think?”   “You two never like to forfeit.”   “Why would we?!” Yoonji furrows her brows so deep that it might leave potential creases in her skin. “I want to play until the very end. If I lose, then I fucking lose, but I don’t want to give up halfway like this.”   “You’re too competitive,” you scold her in a stern tone. “It’s not fun anymore and you’re acting irrationally.”   She steps closer, getting in your face and childishly biting back, “You’re the one acting irrationally.”   Immediately, Jungkook intervenes, physically stepping in front of you. “Hey, hey. Get back.”   “Fuck you, Jeon. Don’t you dare touch me.”   Taehyung steps closer as well. “You don’t have to push her.”   Jungkook’s palms are lifted and he defends himself. “I didn’t.”   “I am the skip.” You bring the argument back to focus, finger pointed directly to the ground. “I am the captain of this team and we're going to forfeit whether you like it or not and I’m to go over there and offer the opposing team drinks because that’s what the spirit of curling is. This isn’t a competitive sport. It’s a cooperative. Get used to it.”   It’s the most domineering you’ve ever been, contrasting your usual wishy-washy personality and even Jungkook is reeling from it. But Yoonji isn’t impressed in the least bit.   “Are you fucking kidding me?” She throws off her curling gloves and marches off the sheet without a moment to waste.   Jungkook follows after you, showing his support as his position of third. The two others turn slightly to watch the way you shake hands with the opposing team, delivering the news of your forfeit with a hug while complimenting their skills. They shoot you and Jungkook traitorous looks, and Yoonji storms off with Taehyung following behind her. Namjoon and Adora quickly gather to see what’s going on and Yoongi’s brow quirks in interest at the obvious spat.   Electricity tinges the air.   The heat is enough to melt the ice.   //   The pair of you walk down the street on your day off, casually sharing fries out of a brown bag with grease stains coming from all corners, leftovers from having lunch together.   “Have they said anything to you yet?”   “No.” You sigh, stuffing your cheeks with two salty fries. “It’s been radio silence.”   “I haven’t been getting any texts from Taehyung either.” Usually Jungkook would be bothered every few hours, like he has a needy girlfriend. But it’s just Taehyung who wants to hang out or play video games together, unable to handle being bored for more than a minute. This is the first time when Jungkook’s phone isn’t being blown up and he’s not sure how he feels exactly.   He just misses his friend.   “Has this ever happened before? How long does it usually take to blow over?”   “I don't know.” You shrug. “Yoonji’s good at keeping grudges. I know Taehyung tends to forget quicker, but I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s telling him not to talk to us. They’re just too competitive. It’s not good for the team.”   He can sense your distraught and comforts you, “They’ll get over it when they realize our teamwork is more important than any game.”   “Hopefully.” You dip your hand into the bag, accidentally grazing your skin with Jungkook’s. He withdraws, swallowing hard, but you’re completely unfazed, probably not even registering it happened. You grab a fry, throwing it into your mouth and chewing.   The two of you are on your way to catch a movie at the theater. It’s a peaceful Sunday afternoon and outings like this were frequent. Jungkook enjoys your company, very much so, and you enjoy his. The mere thought of that and being in your presence is enough to make his cheeks ache from smiling so hard.   “Yoonji and Yoongi are really similar. I was kind of surprised.” He brings up the topic carefully, curiosity getting the better of him. Jungkook knew a lot about you — he made an effort to, but you always had surprises in store for him that would make his curiosity insatiable. Yoongi seemed to be the new topic of conversation that he wanted to know more about.   “Yeah, I guess,” you brush it off, looking straight ahead.   “How long have you known him for?” Jungkook cringes at the invasive question, sounding more like a jealous boyfriend, but he’s inquiring genuinely out of interest. Your odd behaviour keeps lingering on the back of his mind and he can’t shake off the strange feeling he’s got.   “As long as I’ve known Yoonji.” You try to think, bringing out your hand and counting on your fingers, but the timeline gets scrambled in your head and you settle on, “years.”   “Wow. So, he goes to university in a different city?”   You nod. “I don’t know if he’s still in architecture or not. Yoonji doesn’t talk about him much.”   “Did you two ever….” He gives up on trying to be discreet. “...go out together?”   “What do you mean?” You frown, turning to him.   Jungkook chews on a fry, buying time to think. “It’s just...I couldn’t help, but notice you were really quiet around him.”   There’s a long silence.   Your arm falls to your side. Jungkook watches you carefully and in one simple second, one blink of his eyes, heat has risen on your face and you’ve become sheepish and shy, downcasting your head to the sidewalk. “Was...I….really that obvious?”   “Ummmm….not really…?” He’s clueless, not understanding. “Wait, what do you mean?”   “It’s...nothing.” You sigh, continuing forward and sparing Jungkook a glance with a gentle smile. “I don’t want to bother you with my problems.”   “No, it’s okay. It doesn't bother me.” The boy remains open and honest, doe eyes fluttering as he stares at you. “Unless you don’t want to tell me. That’s fine. That’s cool. I’m fine with anything as long as you’re fine with anything.”   God, he’s so whipped. It’s pathetic.   A soft laugh tinkles in the air between your bodies and he relishes in the sound. It’s nice and pretty — you’re nice and pretty, he mulls. The thoughts only intensify when you look at him, locking your gaze together. Jungkook can see the gears turning in your head and he sees the moment you make the decision to confide in him, that you trust him enough. “Don’t tell anyone, but I...I kind of...really...l-like Yoongi.”   “Oh.” Jungkook dies inside. “You do?”   Your head nods and you fiddle with your fingers, coy smile playing at your lips. “I have for a long while. It’s just a stupid, dumb crush, but I get so nervous sometimes.” You’re hopeless and it’s so entirely cute, but Jungkook can’t savour your expression or the way the words stumble off your tongue. His soul is busy leaving his body. “I’m not good with feelings and I’ve been trying to get rid of them. I don’t want to make it obvious and most of the time, I don’t even know what to say, so I end up ignoring him and pretending he doesn’t exist.”   “I….see..”   Jungkook is made speechless.   “I know it’s bad to ignore him and be silent, but I just don’t know what to do with myself sometimes, Jungkook.”   The fries are cold. It’s stale on his tongue. The salt is too strong, making it hard to swallow down. He doesn’t feel like watching a movie anymore. Instead, Jungkook kind of wants to just slowly crawl home and into bed, and curl up underneath his blanket for the rest of his life.   “D-do…” He chokes. “Do you want to date him?”   “I don’t know. I don’t know what I want.” There’s a difference between ignoring someone because you want the feeling to go away or pinning from afar and doing it because you’re shy. Jungkook wants to know which one it is. “It’s not like he likes me or anything. Plus, it’s weird that he’s Yoonji’s older brother.”   “I’m sure she wouldn’t mind...that much.” It’s weird to be in this position, being your friend and having girl talk. Jungkook doesn’t know how to comfort you or what advice to give. It’s awkward and he feels out of his element, but he tries his best even though he’s shrivelling up internally.   “Yeah...but….Yoongi would never like someone like me.”   “Why not? You’re…………….awesome.” It’s an enormous understatement. You’re beautiful and passionate, and also really funny. He could spend all day staring at you and talking to you and just spending time with you even if you’re both doing nothing. Sometimes, Jungkook’s own mind is blown that he’s actually here with you and his brain breaks and he can’t get a single word out properly and he becomes an idiot in front of you. He just….thinks you’re so great.   You laugh, oblivious to all these facts. “Thanks, Kook.”   He scratches the back of his neck, mumbling, “I’m serious though.”   Suddenly, your senses return and you quicken your walking pace. “What time is the movie again?”   “It’s starting in….five minutes!” He begins speed walking, beelining past people.   “We haven’t finished the fries yet.”   “I’ll stuff it in my jacket, don’t worry,” he says and you turn around, throwing a grin over your shoulder. You end up walking faster than Jungkook despite having shorter legs. He struggles to keep up with you, literally and metaphorically, and as he cries inside, Jungkook realizes he can’t even confide in Taehyung.   //   The tension is tangible.   “What the hell is going on here?” Namjoon holds his coffee, grip tight around the paper cup. While the four of you are like peas in a pod or sardines in a can, constantly bickering or joking around with one another and giving him a headache, today there is a rift in the group. Literally.   Yoonji and Taehyung are standing ten meters away from you and Jungkook.   No one is talking to each other. It’s silent for once. Namjoon isn’t sure if this is a miracle or absolute disaster.   “Nothing’s going on,” Yoonji mutters with her crossed arms.   Adora brushes past. Her feet halt for a moment and she gets a good look at the four of you before she sighs, deciding she doesn’t want to deal and she walks towards the female team.   “I don’t know what’s going on, but this better not interfere with practice.”   “It won’t,” Taehyung chimes.   They’re being so petty, muttering, making snide comments, and all you do is sigh.   While everyone agrees not to let it affect practice, it does anyhow. Teamwork takes a massive hit and coordination is severely affected. Numerous shots are missed, strategy goes out of the window and it’s no longer fun for anyone. It’s undoubtedly one of the worst practice sessions and Namjoon’s at wits end.   He’s pissed enough to scrap all the plans and calls the four of you to do drills instead as punishment. In the next ten minutes, each of you have worked up a sweat.   “This is all your fault,” Yoonji spits at him while she slides past on the ice.   “Excuse me?” His brows lift and for once, it gets to Jungkook and he’s irritated beyond belief.   “Leave her be.” You slow momentarily, murmuring to him and giving her a sharp stare. “She’s just being childish. No one can argue with her because she has to be the one who’s always right.”   Taehyung gathers as well, not wanting to miss out on the showdown. “What’s going on?”   Yoonji glares at him. “Don’t but in.”   His jaw goes slack and he defends himself. “I’m trying to help!”   Namjoon blows a whistle. The sound is shrill and earsplitting, causing everyone to wince and turn around, disrupting the game going between the women’s and men’s team briefly. Yet, he continues to pace around the rink with his arms behind his back and Adora continues the game going on, ignoring the chaos that’s going on in mixed.   “What are you doing? Are we having a tea party?!” Namjoon is stern, a stark contrast to his usual bumbling and bubbly self. “Less talking! Go, go! If you have energy to argue and fight, then you have energy to do twenty more rounds!”   There are groans from each person and even you don’t look impressed. Jungkook runs to the end of the sheet and gets down into position, sliding on the ice as he would in any game, but without throwing any stone. It’s stupid, but one killer workout for the thighs and legs.   At the end, everyone’s too tired to say anything. Each person lurches to a different corner towards their bag. As Jungkook grabs his water bottle, he notices someone sitting right there.   Yoongi is leaning forward, arms on his knees, wearing an amused expression. “Did something happen?”   Jungkook knocks his bottle back, quenching his thirst and then wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. He gives him a small smile, remaining civilized and friendly to the best of his abilities. “Kind of. Does Yoonji know you’re here?”   “No. I snuck in. I was around the area and I thought I’d drop by and watch practice. My sister’s so involved with the sport and she never tells me anything, so it makes me curious, you know?” He leans back. “But it seems like there’s a bit of trouble in paradise.”   “It’s just a stupid thing from the other day.”   He nods. “Yeah, Yoonji can be stubborn. Just give her some time. She’s weak for Y/N.”   Speaking of which — Jungkook hears steps behind him and when he turns, you’re staring straight at him with an impassive expression. “Are we going, Jungkook?”   “Yeah.” He nods and you strut away, actively ghosting and ignoring Yoongi like you used to do to Jungkook, except it’s for an entirely different reason.   An outsider would think that you hate Yoongi. Jungkook wishes that were the case, but he knows the truth and his blood runs cold, mouth dry again at the very thought. Yoongi doesn’t seem to ask any questions as if used to your ‘shy’ behaviour. “I’ll get going.” The older man stands on his feet, hands casually digging into his jacket pocket. A tiny smirk graces his features. “Before Yoonji finds out I’m here and throws another tantrum.”   “Okay.”   “See you around, Jungkook.” He waves and strolls out of the rink.   Jungkook hates to admit it, but he’s cool. Really cool. Yoongi is nonchalant in personality and he has calm vibes like nothing can ever affect him and everything rolls off his shoulders like water. There’s a mysterious air about him that intrigues Jungkook and he’s reeling with admiration before he joins you.   You’re standing with Yoongi and Taehyung, but there’s no conversation going on. The closer he approaches, the louder he can hear the bickering.   “—ridiculous!”   “You can’t call me ridiculous. I care about the sport, okay? I take it seriously.” Yoonji points to herself. “And as skip, you should’ve listened to my opinion and Taehyung’s. We didn’t want to stop the game.”   “I’m sorry, alright? But it’s over.” You’re as exasperated as she is. “I listened to what you had to say. It’s not like I didn’t, but as the skip, I had to go with my own decision this time. It was in the best interest of our team. It’s okay to lose, Yoonji.”   “It’s not.” She withdraws harshly when you try to take her arm, throwing your grip off of her. “How are we supposed to go to the Olympics if we keep losing or we keep forfeiting? How is that supposed to look for us?”   “It was only once,” Jungkook adds.   The female with the bob haircut sighs. “Once is enough.”   “Curling is supposed to be enjoyable.” You stand your ground. “You’re not making it enjoyable anymore.”   “Well not everything in life is fun. Everything requires work. You have to put effort in everything you do. Curling isn’t supposed to be enjoyable all the goddamn time!”   “Fine. You know what? Let’s play it out on the ice.”   Taehyung’s brow raises and the corner of his mouth tugs upwards. “A battle?”   You nod. If words couldn’t be exchanged anymore then there’s only one means of deciding who’s right and who’s wrong — the one thing that the four of you can do — curling.   “Fine. Have it your way” Yoonji smirks with Taehyung, the two of them cocky in their own way. “You’re on.”   //   The both of them are on one side versus you and Jungkook. None of you have ever played in pairs. Curling isn’t exactly a sport where two people can just play, but this is the exception to the rule. It’s not like anyone could protest that the guidelines of curling were being overlooked either. There was no one around in the small stadium this time of night. It’s private, between you four, and no one else.   “Can one person really sweep?”   “You’ll be fine,” you reassure Jungkook and he trusts you, moving on to ask about strategy and how you want to go about this. “I’m going to focus on guard shots,” you tell him. “We both should.”   “Guard shots?”   It’s a defensive play.   Yoonji starts first and she’s unsurprisingly aggressive from the start. Her shots are bold and the strategy suits both their personality types. They make it to the house perfectly, right on the button where it should be. On the other hand, when it’s your turn, you throw guard shots.   Jungkook doesn’t even need to sweep that much. The stone ends up short of the house, not quite making it. The throw causes Yoonji and Taehyung to smirk, already detecting your plans.   “I’m not sure playing so conservatively will help you later on.” Her snide comment comes out as she passes by casually.   “We’ll see about that.”   The pair of them end up ahead by a lot, scoring one after another like it’s a walk in the park. They end up crowding the entire house with their stones. “Harder, Taehyung! Harder! God! Harder!”   “I’m going!” He moans, breaking a sweat. “Is this hard enough for you?!”   “No, you idiot! Keep going!”   Jungkook’s breath hitches in his throat as their stone comes around, going over your guard shot and curving so that your side protects theirs. They automatically break out into cheers, Yoonji grinning and Taehyung throwing both arms in the air. “Fuck yeah!”   “Are you sure you want to do another guard shot?” He approaches you, murmuring under his breath in worry. “We should start doing takeouts.” But you shake your head, insisting on sticking to it and to keep going.   Taehyung and Yoonji end up cheering again when they go through a port, stone passing straight through the path of two narrow guards you’ve set up. But as the game progresses, Jungkook remains confident, trusting you wholeheartedly.   Halfway through the game, you huddle with him.   “We’re switching strategies now.”   The fire ignited in your eyes is enough to make him smile. One of the things he loved most about curling was that it wasn’t dependent solely on skill or brute strength or how many hours have been practiced. It’s a game of chess on ice. It requires strategy and the mind.   Brains over brawns.   “Okay.”   You manage a draw raise shot, hitting your guard stone straight into the house. After a switch, Jungkook takes over and does a raise takeout, hitting another guard shot that collides with Taehyung and Yoonji’s stone, sending it straight out the house.   In the change of pace, Taehyung begins to focus on takeouts. But he can’t keep up when you do raise shot after raise shot, all the guard shots you had set up being hurled into the house.   Their cheering severely diminishes and Jungkook notices the sweat built at their foreheads, the slight panic in their expressions. The tables have turned by a complete landslide.   “Is there something wrong, Taehyung?” Jungkook smiles innocently, egging his best friend on and enjoying every second of it.   “N-no….we’re doing fine.” Despite his words, he and Yoonji gather together, bickering and arguing in hushed whispers. Whether they want to acknowledge it or not, everyone knows you and Jungkook are going to win.   Still, Jungkook remains concentrated. His lips are parted, tongue peeking out slightly and his muscle memory operates without him needing to think twice — he’s mastered the art of double takeouts. And indeed, as the stone glides out of his hand, thrown off onto the ice and he shouts at you to sweep, the move is flawless. His stone takes out two of theirs, bumping into each other and pushing it off.   Yoonji and Taehyung’s face pales. All of their stones have been hit off except for two.   “Do a peel on the one by the tee-line,” you direct him and he grins, liking your sneaky play.   “Yes, ma’am.” Jungkook salutes you playfully and he does yet another takeout shot, but hard enough that his own stone rolls out too. There’s only one of theirs left on the house.   “Jungkook.” You’re whispering his name softly, leaning in close to not let them hear. But from your proximity, he can count all your lashes, notices the way the cold has made the tip of your nose red and your eyes watery. He swallows hard, feeling heat rise on his face, but he frowns, forcing himself to focus on your words and not how pretty you look. “Avoid that one.”   “What? Avoid it?” He could do a takeout and they’d be done for. But you shake your head, insisting on it.   “Just throw the stone right through.”   He gives a firm nod and follows through. Jungkook hurls the stone without looking. You sweep for about halfway before stopping and the other two are bewildered, laughing aloud.   “Tripped there, Jeon?” Yoonji’s brow is lifted and she has a smug expression, a glimmer of hope appearing in the game for her.   He mumbles incoherently, not saying anything explicit. They takeout your team’s stone mercilessly, but you don’t flinch and Jungkook keeps going. He hurls it blindly, completely avoiding their only stone on the house. Taehyung frowns, unable to understand what the new strategy is.   “What are you doing?”   “Nothing.” He shrugs. “I messed up.”   But the tall brunette doesn’t buy it. The round repeats, Taehyung taking out your stone from the house while Jungkook chucks his like he’s bowling and aiming straight for the gutter. It’s kind of funny. He’s never tried so hard to fail before and the new game is making him a lot more relaxed than earlier.   You don’t bother sweeping either. The heavy stone flies right past your feet and when you exchange a look with Jungkook from the other end of the sheet, the two of you nearly burst out into laughter.   “You’re letting us win.” The realization hits Yoonji and she’s both shocked and appalled at once. “T-that’s not fair.”   “I never said I was letting you win.” You smile at your friend. “It’s just a tactic and it seems to be working.”   “That the hell tactic is this?!”   “We’re trying something new out. It’s your turn, by the way.”   Yet, it repeats again.   This time, Jungkook screams deep in his chest as he hurls the stone as far as it can go. It hits against the backboard of the sheet, something that would probably make both Adora and Namjoon horrified, but it bounces back. It’s air hockey at this point and he falls on his butt after the force of the throw, laughing his ass off. Even Taehyung grins. But Yoonji is in distress.   “Is this a joke to you?”   “I don’t care who the winner is today,” you tell her bluntly. “What matters to me the most is that I have fun. That’s why I’m here doing this sport.”   “I...I don’t want to play if you’re not going to take it seriously. You’re acting like this is a joke.”   “This isn’t a joke to me. I care about the sport, but I care more about the experience that I have. If you don’t want to play anymore then that’s fine with me.”   The last thing she wants is to forfeit when she’s so against the entire notion of it. But before she can even get in another word or tell Taehyung to stop, he takes his turn and messes up on purpose. Except, Taehyung doesn’t have the exact strength it takes to hurl forty four pounds across one hundred fifty meters and it unintentionally ends up close to the house.   When there’s no more to throw, they’ve won.   “Yay! We win!” Taehyung is cheering, jumping up and down and nearly slipping on the ice. But while he wears a ginormous boxy smile, Yoonji is muttering incoherently. It’s not a proper victory and she’s unsatisfied. Though none of you are able to reconvene for another argument to occur when there’s a sharp voice near the front doors—   “Dear god, what are you kids doing here at this time of night?!” Adora is exasperated, clad from head to toe in pajamas with a jacket thrown haphazardly on to cover herself up.   “We had a match,” Taehyung announces happily.   The older woman sighs and walks off into the office. The lights flicker on and in the next three seconds, it turns off and she comes out. “I forgot my damn phone.” She stops before walking out, blank expression directed towards you four. “You guys sure have a lot of energy, don’t you? Are you that passionate about going to the Olympics that you’re practicing at this ungodly hour?”   “...yeah...sure…” Yoonji is defeated, exhausted and ready to hold up the white flag.   The coach’s eyes stray off to the sheet, looking at the final placement of the stones. “Who won?”   “Taehyung and Yoonji did,” you say with a smile and she nods slowly.   “That’s surprising.” Coach has always been an honest brute, knowing full well that you’re the best and Jungkook is also unrivaled with — the combination could beat anyone, including Yoonji and Taehyung.   Before the girl with the bob haircut can protest her little comment and demand why she thinks it’s ‘surprising’, Adora lazily waves farewell. “Don’t overwork yourselves or we’re going to have trouble. I’m going to bed. Goodnight.”   As the door slams shut, sound echoing throughout the place, silence overtakes it.   Yoonji releases a long exhale, walking closer with pouty lips. She grabs the broom from the ground and then glances up at you. The corner of her mouth moves as she grumbles, “Well...you should help clean up…or something….”   “Okay.” You grin, helping her put away the equipment.   They’ve won.   Yet, Jungkook is in awe at your intelligence. By giving up this victory, you’ve made an overall victory — letting them know that you had the perfect capacity to overtake them in strategy, showing them what the purpose of the sport is, and asserting your dominance as the skip while reconciling with them.   They might’ve won the battle, but you’ve won the war.   You’re a true genius, a strategist that goes beyond the game and to say Jungkook is impressed is an understatement. He’s yet again blown away and caught off guard by you.   Now only if you were smart enough to see him...   //   The fight quickly blows over and is forgotten. By the next day, all of you are out together as usual, having dinner at a barbecue restaurant that Taehyung read good reviews about. It’s normal with you chatting happily, sitting beside Yoonji as he’s seated across from you. Though the conversation gets interrupted when you take off your jacket and Taehyung stares.   “That sweater looks familiar.” He points out the dark hoodie that you’re wearing, slightly oversized and sleeves going past your fingertips.   “Oh, it’s Jungkook’s. I borrowed it and forgot to give it back.” You look at him sheepishly, pinching the soft, cotton fabric. “Sorry.”   “It’s okay. You can keep it.”   “Thanks.” You grin, looking all too cozy, and then you glance around the restaurant. “I’m going to the washroom. You want to come with?” you ask the female beside you.   “Nah.” Yoonji waves you off. “I already went earlier. I’m good.”   You walk off by yourself and the table suddenly simmers down into silence, letting the surrounding tables create the noise, the sizzling of meat and grills heard. Yoonji is especially quiet, playing with the silver spoon on the table. Though when you’ve disappeared completely, she pipes up…   “You should really step up your game, Jungkook.”   “Pardon?”   Yoonji drops the utensil, coming to prop her arm on the table and rest her cheek in her hand, staring at him lazily. “If you don’t make a move soon, my brother might sweep her off her feet. Not that he’s ever successfully swept up anyone on their feet, but Y/N’s a sucker for those kinds of things. She’d easily fall into his trap.”   Jungkook is shocked and mortified. He leans closer, volume dropping into a whisper like he’s telling a secret. “You...know?”   Taehyung smiles and chirps, “Course we know.”   “We know Y/N longer than you do,” Yoonji states impassively. “It’s obvious how she feels. I’m just surprised that she told you directly. Must mean she trusts you a lot.” She leans back into the plush booth seat. “Thing is, I love my brother, but he’s an asshat. At least if you break Y/N’s heart, I can torment and torture you without feeling any remorse. It’s harder to do that to someone when they live with you during the summer and who I’ll have to see at family reunions.”   “I...see…”   “So step up your game, Jeon. That girl can be oblivious sometimes. Channel in your bold side!”   There’s only one problem. “I don’t have a bold side.”   “Then get a bold side. Aren’t the ‘hangouts’ you’re going on with her already technically dates?”   “Not really….”   Yoonji rolls her eyes and scoffs. “You’re going out every other day together, eating and watching movies and walking around the city. You even pay sometimes and you take her to her damn doorstep. If that’s not a date, then what is it?”   The words are bitter on his tongue. “We’re...friends..”   “Then call one of the outings these days a date. Tell her you don’t want to be friends anymore.” But that’s easier said than done. If Jungkook’s rejected, not only will his pride and life just crumble into ashes, but it could ruin the team atmosphere. He could ruin everything.   It’s risky and he cares about curling as much as he cares about you. It’s his home now and he doesn’t want to remove himself from the team to make you feel less uncomfortable if you were to reject him.   “Can I interrupt?” Taehyung raises a finger and both he and Yoonji turn. “Personally, I’m on Team Yoongi.”   The girl across from him is disgusted. “Excuse me?”   “Hear me out. No offense, you’re my best bud, Jungkook. And I want to support you too, but it’s just too much fun pissing Yoonji off.”   “Okay, fuck you. You really think my brother would be good for Y/N?!”   He shrugs. “He’s a scary dude, but he’s nice. Didn’t he pick us up from a game once and buy us hamburgers too? Also he’s really cool and he’s got this mysterious vibe going on.”   Jungkook sits straighter, eyes lighting up. “Yeah! I know what you mean!”   “Do you guys have a hard on for my brother?! Ugh!” She looks like she ate an entire lemon, face scrunched up in distaste, unable to understand the appeal. “Yoongi isn’t cool. An idiot is what he is. At least Jungkook knows a thing or two.”   Taehyung’s palms are up in the air like he’s asking for mercy. “Listen, you can be Team Jungkook all you want, but don’t put hate on Team Yoongi.”   “Fuck you,” she hisses with narrowed eyes.   “Oh look at that!” Taehyung’s voice moves up two octaves and fifty decibels as you approach, like a warning siren. “Welcome back, Y/N!”   You laugh, glancing at each of them as you settle down. “What’s going on?”   “Oh nothing. Yoonji was just talking about how great and sweet and humble her brother is.”   “No.” She sighs, dragging a hand over her face. “I was talking about how great Jungkook is.” Her arm extends diagonally over the table and she visibly struggles to compliment him, brain gears turning extra hard. “Kid’s….somewhat handsome. Right, Y/N? What do you think?”   Each of them wait for your opinion, breaths held in their throats, eyes glued on your features.   You smile. “I think everyone’s nice.”   All of them almost facepalm themselves.   //   Even if you never figure out how he feels, it doesn’t change the fact that he likes your company, that he enjoys hanging out with you, that you’re quickly becoming his favourite person and best friend — a fact that would leave Taehyung sobbing.   But Jungkook still likes being your buddy as painful as it can be sometimes and he doesn’t want to put that relationship at stake. So, he can’t exactly muster up courage and be less of a ‘pussy’, as Yoonji would say. He values your friendship with him too much.   “What do you think of this, Kook?” You’re holding up a bright red duffel bag. “It’s your favourite colour, right? And the strap looks more durable.”   He grins. “Isn’t it too bright?”   “Makes you easier to spot in a crowd.” You set it down and go for the next one. “This one’s less bright.”   The shade is a deep maroon, still red but more bearable on the eyes. Jungkook hums as he considers it. It’s not like he needed a new bag, but the one he had was worn out. You noticed the strap was hanging by a few threads and while he was just going to duct tape it, you dragged him to the store and he happily went if it meant spending more time with you.   He catches the tag in his hand. “It’s pricey, huh?”   “Guess I got expensive tastes.” You smile, but before any more can be said, the teenage clerk comes up to you two in the midst of scratching his scalp.   “Hi, do you need any help?”   “No, we’re okay for now. Thank you.”   He nods, but before he can leave, he’s obligated to give a whole spiel — “There’s a sale on curling gloves and the new shipment of curling shoes is buy one, get one fifteen percent off.”   Your brow quirks. “Actually, do you guys have any curling brushes?”   “They’re right over here.” The teenager ushers you towards the back, eyes brighter at the potential commission. There are only two other customers inside the store, not a lot of traffic and even fewer sales.   “Why is this one so expensive?” Jungkook slides a brush off the shelf, marveling at it from all angles. Before the clerk can say anything, you approach, fingers playing with the bristles.   “It’s made from real horsehair and...the handle is fiberglass,” you say and his eyes are wide, gripping it and letting out a sound of amazement. “Usually synthetic brushes are most popular and they’re made with nylon fabric. Take a look at this one, Kook.”   “It’s got a grip handle, huh?” He clutches it, finding his fingers falling in the grooves perfectly. Jungkook pretends to sweep the ground and you inspect another brush with as much concentration, staring at it an inch away from your eyes.   The clerk is taken back. The pair of you are absolutely nerds about curling, knowing more than he does and he becomes lost in the conversation. You’re in your own world and he slinks away, returning back to the counter after giving one last reminder of the sales and to get him if you have any questions.   Jungkook looks at the brushes and equipment with you, gaping at a set of eight curling stones that cost fifteen thousand dollars. You’re huddled down together, feeling the smooth surfaces of all the stones.   He glances at you, finding you close. His eyes trace against the slope of your nose, the dip in your cupid’s bow, every lash batting as you blink. It’s a private and intimate moment, just you and him behind some shelves at the very back, huddled together. He swallows hard, resisting the urge to brush away the strand of hair that falls in front of your eyes.   “So….have you always just ignored Yoongi?”   “What?” You’re alarmed at the sudden topic. “Did Yoonji say something? Did he say something?!”   “No, no. I’m just...curious, that’s all.”   A sigh of relief releases from your lungs, muscles relaxing. “I’ve always ignored him cause I don’t know what to do with myself, Kook.” You’re frustrated with yourself and he watches the way your expression crumples into shyness and disappointment. “I get so nervous and it’s so awkward. I can’t even get a word out. I wouldn't be surprised if he hated me.”   “He doesn’t hate you,” Jungkook assures without needing to think twice. “You’re….unhateable.”   You smile meekly at him. “Thanks.”   “You should...talk to him.” He doesn’t know what he’s saying. Jungkook is pushing his own feelings away and approaching it from a friend standpoint, what he would tell Taehyung too if he felt this way. You consider Jungkook a friend and he owes it to you to honour that and not hold you back.   “Talk to him?”   He nods and looks away, standing and rifling through the tracksuit jackets and sweatpants rack and keeping himself preoccupied. “Even if it’s just a few words. You don’t know if he hates you till you talk to him, right? Talking is a good start. Being friends is a good start.”   “What would we even talk about?”   “The weather or...curling...or Yoonji.” The boy smiles, bunny teeth on display, trying his best to be genuine and give you gentle encouragements. “That’s one thing you have in common.”   A shy smile graces your features and you twiddle with your fingers. “I’ll...think about it.”   He wants to cheer you on, or at least he should — so he’ll do it, even if he has to grit his teeth.   You agree to consider the idea, and yet, the opportunity comes too swiftly that it rubs salts all over Jungkook’s fresh wounds. By the next practice session, Yoongi’s strolling in with his sister, bothering her and interested in watching how practice goes.   He can see the way you brace yourself, inhaling deep breaths and internally psyching yourself up. When you glance at him for support, Jungkook nods and pushes you forward to talk to him.   Taehyung is still changing with the other team members, Namjoon and Adora are in their office and Yoonji has moved to set up equipment. There’s no better time than now, so you approach Yoongi slowly as he sits himself on the bench.   “Hey…”   “Hey, chipmunk.” The nickname comes from nowhere and Yoongi immediately pockets his phone, giving you full attention when you’ve finally talked to him. No sooner are the pair of you laughing with one another.   Jungkook knew you could do it.   He watches from afar, not noticing that Yoonji’s walked over beside him. She’s observing as well, but without softened eyes and with crossed arms and an unimpressed look on her face. “You’re an idiot, you know that?”   His voice comes out weaker than he intends. “I know….” The dark-haired boy looks away and towards his teammate. “I don’t want to be selfish. I was thinking about it and...I don’t want to fight for her. I want her to choose me.”   A sad expression comes across his face and Yoonji grows quiet, looking off to nowhere in particular and when she breaks the silence, her voice is unusually soft. “Y/N’s cruel. You know you’re practically dating her already? You’re basically doing boyfriend things for her, but it isn’t official.”   “No. We’re friends. And it’s not her fault for not liking me like that.” The corners of his mouth tug, hopeless and yet having reached acceptance. “She doesn't owe me anything for her friendship.”   “You’re an idiot...but you’re a good guy, Jungkook.” Yoonji strolls off on the ice, mumbling about his kind personality and how she’s definitely on Team Jungkook now and Taehyung can suck it.   //   Jungkook wants to be put out of his misery.   It’s unfortunate that the piece of advice he offers you open the entire flood gates. He knows you don’t want to bother him with your issues, you’re even apprehensive and careful, but there’s no one else to talk to. No one else you have. So, you end up consulting Jungkook for help.   Not that he minds—……………...who is he kidding?   You’re killing him over and over again.   Having a crush on you is unbearable. He would’ve rather gotten a crush on Taehyung since at least that guy is a lot simpler to deal with and at worst, he’s only annoying.   “I can’t ask Yoonji,” you grieve, sitting on his floor and leaning on the couch. “It’s her older brother and she’s not good at this sort of thing.”   “I get that. She’s...brutally honest sometimes that it’s not very encouraging.”   You bob your head with a pout, glad that he understands. “And Taehyung would just tease me and make it super obvious.”   That only leaves him left. He’s happy that you trust him so much. But goddamn is it excruciating sometimes.   You gush over Yoongi and every little thing that he does.   “He’s so cute, Jungkook,” you say as you’ve looped your arm around Jungkook’s, leaning on him as you walk down the street like a couple. It doesn’t mean anything. You’re just naturally affectionate.   But when he holds your hand so you don’t get lost in the crowd, the only thing you can say is, “I got his phone number and we texted back and forth for about an hour. It turns out he really likes music.”   “That’s nice.”   Your love story with Yoongi is unraveling right in front of his eyes. He feels like the second male lead in a drama, the one that harbours a huge crush for the female protagonist, and the one that ends up being forgotten by episode fifteen.   Jungkook swore that’s not gonna be one of those guys and complain about it….but he’s human too and he ends up whining about the emotional pain internally.   “I ran into him at the grocery store and he held my bags and walked me home. My mom asked about him too and said he seemed pretty nice. He was going to have dinner with us, but he already made plans with other friends.”   “That’s a step forward though. It’s progress and...I-I’m glad your mom likes him.”   “I know right.” You flash a ginormous smile and Jungkook realizes he can’t hate you — everything you do just makes him like you more.   God. He has terrible taste in girls—   No. That’s not true either. You’re amazing.   It’s just that he has terrible timing.   It doesn’t help that Yoonji and Taehyung are also treating him like a terminally ill patient. “Are you doing alright, Jungkook?” Taehyung speaks slowly, enunciating every syllable. It’s insulting.   “Hey.” Yoonji’s hand plops onto his shoulder, oddly gentle. “Let me clean up, bud. Why don’t you go sit down?”   Their sympathy doesn’t help. It does the opposite effect. And at some point, even Namjoon and Adora go easy on him during practice. Every so often, they give him these pitiful stares, using especially soft words and he doesn’t even want to ask how they know.   “Oh my god, you won’t believe it!” You come to Jungkook all giddy and infectiously eager, making him excited too. “I’m going out with him!”   “Really?” It’s becoming easier to smile sincerely, slowly but surely. It might take a long while for Jungkook to get rid of the feelings that he has for you, but if this is what you want, he’ll support it wholeheartedly. He wants you to be happy — even if it’s not with him.   “It’s not a date or anything, he just asked me to help pick out a gift for Yoonji’s upcoming birthday and he has no idea what to get her, but oh my god, Jungkook! I wasn't prepared for this! What should I wear?!”   You’re nervous, hands shaking, but also hyperactive like you’re on sugar high and ready to jump off the walls.   “You’ll look fine in anything.”   “What should I say?! What happens if I mess it up?!”   “You won’t.” His hands secure on your shoulders, eyes locking in yours, reassuring you in a comforting voice. “You’ll be fine and if Yoongi doesn’t like you afterwards then he’s a blind man who doesn’t deserve you.”   You become sheepish under his praise. “You’re so nice to me, Jungkook.”   “Nah. I’m just saying how it is.”   On the day of the ‘date’, Jungkook decides not to wallow by himself. He invites Taehyung over who drags Yoonji in tow; the three of them lounging on the couch together. Yoonji eats chips by the handful, digging them into her face before tearing his fridge apart, emptying it like her mouth is a vacuum while Taehyung fires up his competitive spirit huddled around the television playing video games.   But as many distractions as there are and with how many friends he can surround himself with, he still can’t completely forget about you. You will always be on the back of Jungkook’s mind.   “—so I wonder what it would’ve been like if I did skating instead. Sometimes I think about it.”   “That’s really cute,” Yoongi notes after listening to your story and you almost combust with the way he smiles at you. “I wanted to play drums, but my parents insisted on piano, so sometimes I wonder what would’ve happened if I did that instead too. Probably wouldn’t have amounted to anything.”   “We never know what could happen,” you agree.   He sips on his ice americano and looks over across the street. “Oh, isn’t that a curling store?”   “Yeah. You don’t see many stores that just sells curling gear.”   “You want to go in and take a look? Maybe we can find something for Yoonji there.”   “Sure.”   The two of you walk across the street and he holds the door open for you to enter the shop. You both stroll around, browsing the selection on the shelves, but not much has changed since you’ve last been in here with Jungkook two weeks ago. But despite that fact, you find your legs moving towards the corner where the maroon duffel bag is.   “Are you going to get that?” Yoongi asks, noticing the way you’re staring at it carefully.   You hum. “Jungkook was looking at it last week. It’s on sale right now too. I’ll probably get it for him.”   Yoongi’s sleepy eyes are introspective, thoughtful, and he comments, “You and Jungkook must be really close. You talk about him a lot.”   “Do I?” You didn’t notice. “Jungkook’s just really important to me, that’s all. When he first came, I didn’t talk to him at all since I thought he didn’t take curling seriously. But I was wrong. He’s been through a lot and I feel sort of guilty for judging him so quickly. He’s really sweet and don’t tell him I said this, but I was secretly a fan of him when he played hockey. He doesn’t know.”   Yoongi smiles, nodding and he walks with you to the front counter.   But speaking about Jungkook….you realize you kind of miss him…   //   He’s not sure if he wants to know or not.   If the outing with Yoongi didn’t go well, he’s not sure if he would be able to hold back his delight. He might just let a grin slip and fist pump the air without thinking twice. But if it went well, Jungkook’s not sure if he can completely hide his disappointment either. He was already dead inside and now you’d just be cooking his loins.   But whatever the outcome is, he knows you’ll tell him anyways. Jungkook will have to face the music one way or another whether he likes it or not. Though he is pleasantly surprised when you call him and say you don’t want to tell him over the phone, and you even admit you kind of miss hanging out with him. It’s only been a few days since you’ve seen him, but the declaration makes him feel fuzzy inside.   It’s a little pathetic.   But that’s just how he is these days.   “Where do you want to meet then?”   “I was thinking……..”   “Thinking what?” he persists, wanting to know what’s going on in your mind.   “If you wanted to go rollerblading. I keep passing by this rink, but it’s under construction right now, so we can’t. Never mind. It’s dumb and stupid,” you brush off. “I wouldn’t be able to do anything there. I can’t skate anyways.”   “Wait.” Jungkook pauses, letting the static on the other line fill the quiet. He can’t remember the last time he talked to someone on the phone properly and not through text — but he likes it better this way. He likes hearing your voice. “You don’t know how to skate? Like at all?”   “I thought you knew.”   “No. I thought you could skate at least a little.” Jungkook is shocked and he laughs. “I have to teach you. You can’t play an ice sport without knowing how to skate. That’s….an abomination!”   You stutter, nervous and scared, and he relishes in the cute sounds, pressing his phone closer to his ear as a smile spreads into his face. “I-I don’t know how.”   “I can teach you.”   “B-but is that really okay? You...can’t.”   “It’s fine. Doesn’t mean I can’t teach you.”   “Are you sure?”   Jungkook grins, having too much fun teasing you, “You’re not getting out of this, Y/N.”   His immense hockey knowledge finally comes in handy. He knows just the place to bring you where you’ll be undisturbed and you don’t have to be embarrassed by eight year old experts doing backwards figure eights and showing off.   …   The arena is quiet, lights only shining on the ice, the smooth surface shimmering. The ice rink has a smooth texture, unlike the curling sheet, and instead of being narrow, its oval with plenty of space to skate freely. It has yet to be marred by blades lacing patterns made by skates.   Jungkook swallows hard, the cool air tingling his cheeks pink. The air is crisper here and as he takes a deep breath, he looks around at the area for an extended moment, taking in the memories. The heavy thoughts are interrupted with steps approaching behind him.   The boy turns and laughs, his trance shattered by your appearance.   You pout, whining at him. “Don’t laugh!”   You’re decked out from head to toe in protective gear — helmet on your head, knee pads and shin pads he’s sure is meant for volleyball and you even have wrist guards. “Don’t you know how important it is for me not to be injured? I’m a valuable member that can’t be hurt.”   “I know. Our precious skip shouldn’t be injured. But you know you’re not going to be hurt learning how to skate, right? You’re not playing hockey or going snowboarding.”   “You don’t know that,” you mutter in weak defense.   “Come on.” He shows you to the bench where the rented skates in your size are. You sit down and he eases your foot in, starting to do up the laces. Jungkook’s fingers are nimble and quick, weaving the laces together and tugging without a moment to waste. It’s all in his muscle memory and despite feeling your intent stare, he continues to pull. “Is this too tight?”   “No, it’s okay.” In the next two minutes, it’s done and he steps back. “What now?”   Jungkook smiles. “You stand up.”   “S-stand up? What if I fall?”   “You won’t. You just walk to the ice normally. Here.” His arms are out, palms facing upwards and you hold his hands tightly. Jungkook’s grip is secure and steady, keeping you grounded and he guides you forward with encouragements pouring out. “See? It won’t be that much different on ice. Just a bit more slippery.”   He shows you to the white, glossy surface. One of your hands holds his and the other grips the railing. “Jungkook! Jungkook!”   “It’s okay. I’m right here.” He holds you, on the ice too without realizing it. You shuffle awkwardly forward, moving your other hand to hold onto him, trusting the boy more than the railing. He won’t tell you that he’s more unstable now and might slip with his normal shoes on the ice. “Bend your knees a bit more. That’s it. Push your weight forward. Look! You’re going.”   “It kind of hurts my foot.”   Immediately, he is alarmed. “Are the laces too tight?!”   “No, no. It’s fine. It’s just...weird, that’s it.”   “Tell me if it starts being painful. We’ll stop. But try relaxing. You’re stiff.”   He reassures you with every inch that you progress forward. You slip once, but he catches you in a hug, arms around your torso and thick jacket. When you flail and fall fully, your knee guards protect you and you’re ready to give up, pouting at him. You remind him of a baby giraffe or deer learning how to walk. It makes Jungkook giggle, eyes seeming brighter with the fluorescent lights overhead, irises holding stars, and he helps you stand up.   You get better slowly but surely. Though you’re still not sure how this is fun.   “How do figure skaters do this?”   “A lot of years of practice.” He smiles, appearing more mischievous. “You want to try twirling? Or I can throw you into the air.”   “No!”   “You know, I can always be your figure skater partner. We’d be a killer duo.”   “No! Jungkook! Don’t throw me! Please.”   He laughs, all bunny teeth and crinkled eyes exposed, tinkling sound streaming from his chest. “I’m just kidding. I won’t.”   “Thank you,” you whimper and he almost bursts out laughing again.   He’s supportive, holding both your hands, moving carefully backwards as you skate forward. You’re cute in your helmet and when you have that concentrated expression. “You’re doing well, you know.”   “I’m pretty sure it’s not supposed to be like this, Kook. I’m barely moving.”   “Nah, it’s good as a start.” He squeezes your hands comfortingly. “So tell me about it. How was the date?”   “It...wasn’t a date,” you mumble. “But it was good. I think. We talked and went out and looked for a present for Yoonji. Oh! Speaking of which, I have a present for you.”   “For me? Is it in that huge shopping bag you were carrying? I was wondering what that was.”   “I’ll give it to you later.”   “You bought it on your date? What are you doing thinking about me when you’re with another guy?” Jungkook teases you, joking around with only a hint of purposeful flirting, and when you become shy, he savours your expression.   “I don’t know. I just saw it and thought of you.”   He smiles, all too happy that his cheeks could burst. “But you had a good date with Yoongi?”   “Yeah. It was fun and you were right, I didn’t mess up.”   “Are there any plans to go on another one?”   “I’m not sure.” You’re skating faster than before, gliding fluidly across the ice. Your eyes glance down, realizing how cold his toes must be and how miraculous it is that he hasn’t slipped even once. It occurs to you that you’re the one holding him and not the other way around. But still, Jungkook’s hands clutch yours tightly, making you feel warm as sweat builds at your hairline.   You like him very much — and even then, that remark is an enormous understatement to you. Jungkook is thoughtful and kind, and also really funny. You could spend all day talking to him or being with him, even if you’re both doing nothing. “You know, you didn't have to do this for me.”   You’re aware that it must be hard for him to be out here. He hasn’t been skating since his accident or even been to an arena like this. “It’s okay.” Jungkook smiles softly, making your chest feel strangely fuzzy. “To be honest, I just wanted a reason to be with you, that’s all…”   His words are spoken sincerely and your eyes widen, seeing him for the first time. His deep brown eyes are glimmering in the lights, skin glowing and features youthful yet mischievous. He stares at you with a smile and as you’re distracted looking back at him, speechless, your right foot goes over your left.   For a mere moment, you forget you’re on skates and your left foot catches on the other, making your weight shift. You lose balance, tripping, and Jungkook’s caught off guard by the sudden movement. There’s a sharp gasp that rips from your lungs, an inhale that squeezes from his throat and you collide together.   But Jungkook catches you before you hit the ground, reflexes quick and he rolls with you to absorb the impact.   Everything is delayed. Your eyes flutter open slowly, realizing that you are indeed still alive and not hurt or aching anywhere. The world slowly comes into focus as you blink, vision registering again. The light above you should pierce your eyes, but instead there’s a shadow over you.   Despite wearing a helmet and protecting your skull from any impact, Jungkook has his hand on the back of your neck, shielding you from the ice. He’s over you, bodies pressed together, a mere inch away. He’s about to ask you if you’re okay, but the words get jumbled in his mouth when he realizes he could count all your lashes from the mere proximity you are to him.   His hot breath pulls from his parted lips, skimming over your warm cheeks. You stare at those reddened lips — how small and delicate they are, how the cutest and tiniest mole dots beneath them — before your pupils flick up to meet his. Except Jungkook’s eyes have strayed off elsewhere, directly on your mouth. He swallows hard, Adam’s apple bobbing in his throat.   You don’t waste another second. No thoughts are present in your mind, purely instinct and you move upwards. Jungkook tilts his head at an angle and leans down, meeting you halfway.   It’s velvet, only slightly chapped at the corners from the cold. He exhales, lips parted ever so slightly, hesitant to deepen the kiss. His half-lidded eyes drink in your pleasured expression, the slight furrow of your brows as you concentrate on kissing him back, the way your eyes are shut tight. And he closes his own lids to relish in the feeling alone. He kisses you gently, softly, but like he’s been starved for affection — eager. You’re pliant beneath him, molded against his body and it’s better than what he could’ve daydreamed about.   You smell like fresh linen and gentle laundry detergent, his favourite. But what surprises Jungkook is that your lips taste like peppermint chapstick, or maybe it’s a candy cane flavour. He pushes against you harder, trying to pinpoint the exact taste, only knowing that it’s making his own mouth tingle. Unintentionally, Jungkook draws a squeak out of you, the slightest of whines and it snaps him out of it, enough to pull away.   The two of you are catching your breaths, staring at each other, unable to utter a single word to one another. Speechless. Dumbfounded.   Jungkook’s own mind is blank. He’s dazed, not sure what just happened. It’s surreal and he’s reeling. The little person who’s supposed to run his brain activity is instead sprinting in circles, caught on fire and screaming.   ….What?   It was out of nowhere and now the atmosphere is tinged with awkwardness. Jungkook has a strong urge to kiss you again, but before he can do so, he’s interrupted when you squirm beneath him, hands lightly pushing at his chest.   “Y-you’re heavy, Kook.”   “S-sorry.” He rolls off and directly onto the ice. It’s cold, but it still can’t bring down his body temperature.   Jungkook mumbles apologies as he gets up. Every movement of his is delayed and he realizes you need help after three beats. He holds your hand, helping you stand onto your skates, still dizzy from what just happened.   “It’s okay,” you reply shyly after he mumbles his tenth apology. You kissed him back. You met him halfway. You wanted it just as much as he did. “I….liked it.”   Jungkook combusts. Almost.   Does this mean you like him? Or was that just a friendly kiss? Like you did it on accident and spontaneously and it just marks your friendship with him?! Like ‘hey! Jungkook! You’re my best friend and we kissed once...ha..ha….’ Were friendly kisses even a thing?   What WAS that?!   Now Jungkook feels like the clueless, dumb one. The single cell in his brain is having a difficult time operating. He’s not thinking. But the one thing he is doing is trying not to grin and look like an idiot in front of you.   The pair of you skate a bit more. You squeeze his hand. Not much is spoken except for mumbles. But nothing else needs to be said.   //   There’s a curling match in two weeks time. It’s business as usual. The men’s and women’s team are warming up together, Namjoon conducting their practice while Adora is scribbling on her clipboard, having designed a special routine for mixed. The practice sessions schedule continues without any more trouble. It’s finally normal, no more fights or underlying grudges, zero interruptions….or so Jungkook thought.   “—village next year. So, there’s still a lot we have to prepare for.”   You’re strolling in with Yoongi, talking to him without holding back. It’s a casual conversation and from the outside, it looks like you’re the talkative one. There isn’t any trace of shyness in your features, unfazed like it’s completely normal.   And that’s enough to shake Yoonji to her core.   She frowns, coming to stand by Jungkook and watching this monstrosity unfold. “Did something happen?”   Before he can come up with a response, Taehyung runs up to the two of them, throwing his arms around their shoulders. “What’s going on now? I always feel like you’re leaving me out of the loop. What are we staring at today?” He pouts, looking between the female and male’s profiles before his eyes stray off. “Oh. You got a new bag?”   The maroon duffel bag is slung onto Jungkook’s shoulder by his side, brand new with just the tag cut off. “Oh yeah. Y/N bought it for me.”   “Team Jungkook going strong, huh?” he comments.   You quickly notice that everyone’s gathered and you bid farewell to Yoongi. The entire walk towards them, Jungkook’s pupils are pinpointed on your face, openly gawking at you like you’re the most magnificent painting while you’re diverting your vision elsewhere.   Involuntarily, you draw into yourself, having a hard time looking him in the eyes, face feeling particularly hot. You face Yoonji, outright ignoring Jungkook. “Ummm...I..I think we should talk about strategy for the upcoming match.”   “Yeah. That’s a good idea.”   “I’ll let coach know.” You walk over to Adora who’s still scribbling things down furiously.   Taehyung turns to Jungkook, lost, and repeating the exact same thing as Yoonji, “What happened?”   “I don’t know.” Jungkook is genuinely bewildered and confused why you’re ghosting him. It reminds him of when he first met you, except worse.   Was it really that bad? Was it a mistake after all?   “I win,” Yoonji declares with a smirk. The two males gape at her, still not getting it, and she rolls her eyes with a sigh. “I’m surrounded by idiots…”   The end of practice comes quicker than expected. Time moves faster when things are going well and are equally enjoyable. It’s not too shabby and it’s evident in the way Adora is screaming less these days.   Everyone is standing outside, waiting for one another and whoever is left in the change room. It’s become tradition between the four of you to eat somewhere together after practice — a custom that is beginning to burn a few holes through some wallets, but no one particularly minds when they can just spend less on groceries.   “Hey.” Yoongi strolls up to Jungkook. The both of them acquaintances on the verge of some sort of friendship. The younger boy accepts it with open arms, enjoying chats with him. He finds him the more bearable Min sibling after all — though he’ll never let Yoonji know that.   “—yeah, probably head back in like a weak or so. Another semester.” A long sigh squeezes out of Yoongi. “I should just jump off a bridge now.”   “I feel like Yoonji would be pissed if you did that.” Jungkook grins. “Funerals are expensive.”   He scoffs. “You’re right. She’d rather drop my body into the ocean and let me sink to the bottom than spend money on a coffin.”   The younger male laughs. “There’s no point in spending money on a corpse.”   A grin draws on Yoongi’s face, gums shown in his smile. “That’s exactly what she would say. Jeez. She’s going to give me an aneurysm.”   “I wouldn’t doubt it,” he agrees.   “The only person that can handle her is Y/N.” Yoongi’s reminded of something and he hums a low note. “Speaking of which, she talks about you a lot.”   “Who? Y/N? She does?”   “Yeah. She’s a nice girl and you seem to have a good head on your shoulders.” Yoongi’s arm lifts to the height of his chest and his hand curls into a fist. He gives a subtle fist pump of encouragement while flashing a grin, conveying he’s supporting Team Jungkook too.

In the meanwhile, you finally get outside, finding Yoonji and Taehyung huddled together by the doors. “Where’s Jungkook? Is he coming with us?”   Yoonji playfully shrugs, lips pouty. “He’s over there talking to my dumbass brother. I don’t want to talk to him. He’s been following me everywhere and I’m sick and tired of him. You go get Jeon.”   “But—”   “Go, hurry!” She complains and pushes you forward. “Taehyung and I are going first!”   He blinks, eyes wide. “We are?”   “It’s too goddamn cold.” Yoonji’s hands are dug in her pockets, shoulders up and tense, trying to conserve heat. The female skedaddles away before anyone can get another word in and Taehyung is forced to catch up to her.   You swallow hard, bracing yourself before approaching with slow steps. The two males quiet down when they see you and you nonchalantly greet the older. “Hey, Yoongi. Have you packed yet?”   “In the process of it. I should probably go home and do it before I procrastinate again.”   You nod, looking away before your hand comes up, fingers shyly grabbing Jungkook’s sleeve. “It’s….time to go.”   “Oh, okay.” The both of you walk off after Yoongi bids farewell and you answer him back in mumbles. He watches with an approving smile before turning to walk his own way home.   The pair of you walk beside each other in silence. Jungkook steals a glance at you and at the exact same time as he whips his head back to face forward, you’re the one to glance at him.   No one says anything.   But each of your arms are straight by your side and with how close he’s walking next to you, steps synchronized together, the back of his hand brushes yours. Your skin skims against one another, sending a sea of goosebumps up the arm, hair standing on end, heartbeat thundering next to your rib cage.   Jungkook inhales a sharp breath and takes a leap of faith, channeling his courage.   He is cautious and hesitant, hand slipping into yours. A part of him is afraid that you’ll withdraw your arm, cower away, but you open your palm, letting him. The two of you hold each other’s hands, delicately and softly, somehow different from all the times before.   There’s nothing necessary to say when subtle touches and obvious feelings are loud enough.   “Your takeout shots are good,” you whisper, bringing up curling. It’s one of the things that you and Jungkook have the most in common — and he smiles, both from your praise and realizing you’re using his advice right back at him.   “Thanks. I’ve been working on it.”   You hum, losing tension in your muscles. “I think your guard shots are a bit strong.”   “Really?”   “I just noticed….as the skip.”   “Well, if you think so as the skip, then I’ll have to work harder on it.” Jungkook’s smile widens, and he takes yet another glimpse of your face before looking away. “But...can you help me?”   You nod, squeezing his hand tenderly. “We’ll do it together.”   “Together.”   It sounds pleasant to the ears and he savours the word on his tongue, chest blooming in warmth by the second. He feels at ease. If you’re here together with him, Jungkook’s sure he could take on anything.

#bts fanfic #jungkook fluff #jungkook fanfic #bts scenario #jungkook scenario #Jungkook as a curling player who harbours A NOT SO SECRET CRUSH #OC who also happens to harbour a not so secret crush looool #what a coincidence huuuuh? #but there might be a smol issue with that

[theskyexists]

the amazing she-ra 5

i am LOVING this first episode. they’re TRULY the underdogs now. people are hiding with magic. they live in tents. they’ve lost their edge. they’re actually leaning into the horrors of war now

Shadowweaver says OOC stupid things but it doesn’t matter because the princesses shut it down satisfactorily. Adora is weighed down by responsibility in a cool way.

Catra is staking out the enemy and weaseling her way in. (yessss)

‘You don’t need to say it! I know. I made that choice. I’m living with the consequences.’ I LOVE THIS ADORA

I LOVE THIS WRITING. Catra and Glimmer are THE greatest pair ever. Glimmer is smart enough to poke right through Catra’s defenses - and NOW they’re in the same situation - Glimmer says so - and immediately the prison wall fades away - and they’re both invited for dinner. THAT DELICIOUS WRITING

i do love how shadowweaver has been this snarky aunt for two seasons now.

Hord Prime shows us Adora in danger and Catra is like; FUCK YOU ADORA’S MINE (TO DESTROY) !!!!

I love Hord Prime’s wonderfully manipulative dinner. And I love glimmer quietly crying and I love Catra being like HRMMMM I DONT LIKE THIS. the subtle animations are so great - the close-ups

the way Catra speaks to Hord Prime - the way she’s really fuckin scared and the way Hord Prime says ‘little sister’. The way they make him seem unbeatable. I LVOE IT.

AND I LOVE THESE VISIONS FOR ADORA

jezus but how few people really live in etheria ?

the propaganda and the tech to boost prime’s image everywhere....ugh it’s delicious. im also happy Entrapta is back and on the good side instead of helping Catra be a bitch to Adora. and im glad the princesses are wary of her.

hahahaah awww Bo came to give adora breakfast and then he panics when she’s lying on the floor. I ALSO LOVE BO AND ADORA TOGETHER BEST

goddamnit Bo YAH! finally somebody who effectively protects someone from the masses. fuck off micah!

Love the princesses acting on their own - love Scorpia mediating, love mermista stepping up, love Entrapta using her .....intelligence

I love how Hord Prime manipulating Glimmer is used to show us more about his empire.

‘i only want to bring peace’ - but also i destroyed all these worlds. how is that...how is that even surface compatible?? like no attempt is made to align those two things.

wait....the heart of etheria will destroy the universe? why??? why is that the assumption. and why...does Hord Prime want that? i....

the comedy of the princesses doing a mission alone is GREAT

IM SO HAPPY THE PRINCESSES GOT TO HIT ENTRAPTA WHERE IT HURTS. now THIS is the right level of comedy versus hurt

the way scorpia rolled to cover frosta in her bulk!

i love how adora is like - HAH sleep is great actually! wow!!

because of the underlying grievances that we EXPERIENCED as audience, this friendship moment actually LANDS

I REINSTATE MY HOORAY!!! (hahahaha god i love scorpia). oh my god Micah saying he trusts glimmer’s friends to save her - fuckin hell - heart squeeze

LOOK AT THAT SHIT. LOOK AT IT!!! Glimmer being angry at Catra - but then recanting and showing vulnerability. Catra showing vulnerability by acquiescing. GOD!!!

‘why did you do it?’ OH GOD ARRGHGHHG THATS SO FUCKING PAINFUL. why does Catra scratch Adora? Because she doesn’t understand - seems to not make the effort to understand!! because she’s never understood that everybody always hurt her - she never fucking saw when it was right in front of her. THat’s even worse in a way than being hurt.

god the fuckin scale. the planet getting bombarded from space....jezus christ.

theres a hallway with light and dark at the end - its implied she goes into the dark - BECAUSE SHE INTENDS TO HIDE FROM WHO FOLLOWS HER

wow she instantly realises he’s hordak. ha!

Catra is being so open with Glimmer. She’s REALLY REALLY! off balance

they have a talking ritual!!!! THEYRE BONDING ABOUT ADORA BEING A DORK!!!!

Catra realises that nothing she was doing on Etheria had any value to her!!!! I LOVE THIS SEASON SO MUCH

I love how Adora gets to be such a badass dork this season!!!! Bo and Adora + Glimmer and Catra are the BEST COMBINATION

godDAMN they made these clones creepy. damn i LOVE Hord Prime!!!

catra/glimmer......tho.....

she pushes her onto the bed and kneels before her, holding her hands. DUDES. MY DUDES!!!! catra is they gayest cat in existence

‘do one good thing in your life!’ - oh OUCH god, you can feel the whole weight of all the hurt and injustice she’s experienced in ‘dont talk to me like you know me!’

HAHAHAHAHAHAH BO losing his mind and Adora being a hilarious himbo is SO GOOD

I LOVE CATRA’S ABSOLUTELY HEARTBREAKING ADORABLE MEMORY AND HALLUCINATIONS

‘im alway going to be your friend’  - ‘i’ll never say sorry to anybody’ GODDD

‘all i do is hurt people, there’s no one left in the entire universe who cares about me’ - a reasonable assumption based on your behaviour except for the fact that Adora has been trying to reach you for 4 FUCKING seasons with hand outstretched

THAT WAS SO FUCKING DRAMATIC I AM IN LOVE !! IN LOVE WITH THEM!!!!

are you fucking SERIOUS - ENTRAPTA MADE AN AB WINDOW IN BO’S SPACE SUIT AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHA

the animation in this goddamn season is CRAZY and INCREDIBLE

I ADORE Catra the self Martyr i ADORE that she’s going to go through the wringer still in Hord Prime’s hands.

THIS SEASON IS WORTH ALL THE REST

are YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME- i HATE THAT SHIT WHY MUST YOU MAR THIS SEASON WITH AN INTERRUPTION OF AN APOLOGY. STOP IT!!! IT’S NOT FUN IT’S NOT SATISFYING IT RUINS THE MOMENT IT WEAKENS THE EMOTION BY DRAGGING IT OUT FUCK!!!!

well i guess that was pretty good with Adora. wish they had made that a little bit longer

i love entrapta. she’s such a perfect element to throw into the mix. and her connections with AI’s are great

that scorpia and swift wind talk is so beautiful. they are also the PERFECT pair. ‘gosh have you ever noticed how many moons we have here? it’s weird.’ HAHAHAHA

they’re visiting a planet that’s been conquered by Prime...

I love how they made Entrapta flirty with her tech ahahahaha

i love how Adora is like: oh??? you’re coming to me??? for emotional advice??? uhhhhhh ok haha nice

I LOVE ADORA

i love swift wind’s drunk history retelling of what’s going on on Etheria - especially his impression of shadowweaver and his batman micah

Bo sure is very bad at forgiveness himself lol

‘well im NOT! running awayy that is. i AM smart’ AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! i love you adora

Adora spewing all her bullshit about Catra to total strangers ahahaha

this was SUCH amazing teamwork!!!

AND THAT MOMENT OF SHE-RA BEING BACK!!!!

GLIMMER ACKNOWLEDGING SHE MADE A MISTAKE AND THAT BO DESERVES TO BE MAD AND MAYBE THINGS WON’T BE THE SAME AGAIN BUT SHE WON’T STOP TRYING TO MAKE IT BETTER AND SHE’LL BE THERE IF HE’S EVER READY

FUCKING TEARS BABEY

jezus christ !! that was good!!! i take it back - it was a stupid interruption (they could have just had Bo respond ‘eh’ at an attempt at apology from glimmer....maybe) but they made the final apology INCREDIBLE

‘i can’t just leave her...’ the voice acting in this is sO GOOD

Catra made her whole plan to keep Adora away from Prime based on the assumption that if Glimmer was in Prime’s hands, then Adora would come to rescue her no matter the danger. So she saved Glimmer. But SHE FAILED TO REALISE THAT ADORA WOULD DO THE SAME FOR HER AHAHAHAHAHAHAA

the amazing thing about these highly tech advanced societies is that none of them have invented security cameras

glimmer getting some ptsd flashes

I KNEW that the heart of etheria was built by the First Ones to fight Hordak. Makes Mara’s decision a bit more ---- hMMMM not as great. Because Hordak has killed countless worlds since!

the hive mind lol. jezus Prime is so terrible.

oh my god the very concepts of Prime when behind a fictional buffer are so archtypically delicious. Catra’s glowy green eyes and full bow. hohhohhohho. that uniform also looks great

so Prime could do this to everyone but he chose to surround himself with clones. goddamn.

oh damn that lean-in, those hands on her neck. hmmmhm. gay

she FLINCHES when Prime lays a hand on her shoulder. DAMN. love it

‘you will give me she-ra’ ---- isn’t that what she’s been offering all along? lol

AND THEN HE LEAVES ADORA WITH A BRAINWASHED CONTROLLED PUPPET CATRA WHO ATTACKS HER

OH ITS SO DELICIOUS

brainwashed Catra is really sexy and disturbing hahahahahaha

this fight is so well choreographed. Catra letting herself almost fall, Adora gathering her into her arms, the scratch across the back, the damn knee into the midriff (OUCH), the dangling her in turn.

‘i always hated that guy in particular - and also all the other guys i hit on the way in.’ LOLOLOLOL

THE CHEEK TOUCH - THE TEARS AND SMILE - THE GREEN EYES AND THE BACKHAND AFJLDJFDSJFLKDSJSDFKSDFJ

‘you’re such an idiot!’

‘yeah! i know!’

I LOVE THEM AAAAAAAAAAAAA ITS SO TRUE AHAHAHAHAHAHAI LOVE THEM

‘im going to take you home’

‘promise?’

NOELLE WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING TO ME

Adora watches Catra probably die and fall off into a endless pit. JUMPS IN AFTER HER ONE SECOND LATER

Prime really did miscalculate lol - his ship’s been destroyed by one stab at a server.

CATRA ALMOST DYING AND ADORA TRANSFORMING WITH GLOWY EYES GODDAMN!!!! HOLDING CATRA INTO HER ARMS BRIDAL STYLE. NEW OUTFIT!! WALKING INTO THE SHIP LIKE A BOSS. AND HEALS HER. HEY ADORA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AND SHE FUCKING

PURRS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

all the fucking crying is so good

‘I kNOW YOU ALL HATE ME!” ‘I NEVER HATED YOU’ ‘Then you’re dumber than I thought’ HAHAHAHAHA i love how Catra cannot accept Adora’s friendship because she cannot forgive herself. but Adora never fucking gets it because she has the emotional intelligence of a crab!!!! the problem is that Adora is the exact shape of Catra’s heart - which is one big open wound. And if she presses - all she does is cause hurt

Catra is so adorable looking god.....

SPINERELLA AND NETOSSA KISSED!!!!!!!! awwwwwww they’ve been so cute for so long and they only got more and more screentime and Awwwww

Not-Hordak and ‘dehydrated protein slaw’ AhAHAHAHA

how did they find us? UHHH THERES A CHIP IN CATRA’S SPINE????

ADORA TELLING CATRA WHAT’S UP!! YES! Catra in a corner. Catra on her damn KNEES. ADORA BLUSHING AT HOLDING HER HAND

their first impulse is to hold each other at the ship shaking.

CATRA IS BLUSHING LOOKING AT ADORA TRANSFORM

SHE-RA CAN LITERALLY FLY THROUGH SPACE - well. make matter from light, breathe in a vacuum, jumpt from one asteroid to another....

I AM GLIMMER IN THIS: YEAAAHHHHHH!!!!!

Catra is very lucky that her biggest likely hater is already on her side: glimmer

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO SPINERELLAAAA. what a fuckin bait and punch goddamn! making them so cute and then foreshadowing it perfectly and then BAM

CATRA IS CONFIDENT ENOUGH TO MESS WITH ADORA BY LITERALLY JUMPING INTO ADORA’S LAP

fjadslkfasdjflkadjfsja

CATRA IS

PURRING

catra is so effortlessly cool sitting in the window sill

i am actually loving that they have a not-Hordak with them. it humanises those clones a lot

this prince has farsight but they NEVER thought to recruit him BEFORE???

FUCKIN - I LOVE how spinerella and netossa have gotten so much more screentime - relevant to the plot and also revealing their characters. i wish we’d got this from the start!

well now i ship perfuma and scorpia lolololol

HAHAHAHAHA i LOVE this Seahawk and Mermista hiding behind a bar because of ex victims skjsfajfklds

Prince Peekabloo has an AMAZING design, but also he must be a fake. IT MUST BE DOUBLE TROUBLE. double trouble has TASTE

MERMISTA LOOKS SO COOL IN THAT OUTFIT - but also especially chipped and in shadows. they do love chipping people’s love interests

SCORPIA SACRIFICING HERSELF TO SAVE PERFUMA. jezus christ so much love interest drama suddenly wow

‘happy anniversary’ that is HEARTBREAKING

what a great ending to a very silly episode. that’s the balance. a last message from the last soldier standing...

‘WHY DOES SPACE HATE ME SO MUCH!?!?!’ hahahahaah

Catra’s fingers shake......

‘take it from somebody who’s defeated you guys, like, a lot’ AAHAHAHA

FINALLY CATRA IS ON THEIR SIDE TO BE THE SMARTS IN TEH ROOM

ADORA LOOKS SO BADASS IN THAT SPACESHIP CHAIR

chipping everyboddy so they’re like zombies was a great story idea.

catra upset at her signs of upset. CUTE

why the FUCK is Adora’s hair out of her spacesuit ahahahahahahaha. IM SO GLAD THAT BO AGREES WITH ME ON THE ADORABLENESS OF CATRAS HELMET HAHAHAHAHAA

catra is happy to see adora laugh again.... : ‘)

CATRA JUST CLAWED THROUGH FIVE CENTIMETERS OF STEEL????!?!?!?!

ADORA IS BLUSHING AAHAHAHAHAHAAAA

I LOVE how Catra is like, WHAT THE FUCK at having lost to these people

Entrapta trying to deal with Wrong-Hordak in existential crisis is a hilarious premise

THE ANGRIER YOU GET THE CUTER YOU ARE!!! I LOVE BO

oh wow! a first ones colony! very cool! this whole planet works against intruders and plays tricks on them. i do like how first ones are definitely like, still imperial shitlords like subtly. i love how Wrong-Hordak has a realisation arc in the background.

HOLY SHIT THIS IS CREEPY

CATRA DISARMED THIS CAT CREATURE WITH HER CUTE SNEEZE AHAHAHAHA

CATRA IS PETTING A CAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AHAHAHAHA EVERY SINGLE THING WE COULD HAVE EVER WANTED IS COMING TRUE

catra is working on not lashing out :’) <= literally adora and also me

Melog is so ADORABLE and imprinted on Catra and LOVES ADORA and AGHGHGHG

I love how Adora can make her eyes glow on command

Castaspella was blushing at Shadowweaver being so close lolololol. wow this is the first time Castaspella has been interesting. ‘and stop me, if i take the power for myself’ i love aunty shadowweaver.

AAAHAHAHHAHAHAHAAHAH WHAT HAHAAHHAAAAHA Catra notices she’s holding Adora’s hand and goes ARGGH and doesn’t just take her hand back but throws it away ahhaahaha. Adora doesn’t even respond. that was so hilarious for some reason.

GLIMMER KISSING CATRA’S CHEEK HELLO??? HELLO?????????

‘is what i would have said before i joined you. go team’ hahahaa

‘you’re wearing hooded cloaks. that’s highly suspicious’ AHAHAHAHAHA fucking meta

I LOVE HOW ADORA IS THE ‘oh god my fuckin friends blowing our cover great’ person here

MELOG IS ALREADY STEALING MUSHROOMS FOR CATRA TO EAT AHAHAHAHA I LOVE THEM

Spinerella and Netossa are so BADASS and i love their fight. it’s so deliciously painful and cool hehehehehe

so the only person im fighting here is!.....my own wife...

I LOVE THEM

spinerella is so op lololol - why did she barely do anything for them when they were still fighting hordak

wrong hordak is so fucking cute ahahahahaha

goddamn that reunion was touching and funny at the same time. and i can actually believe that Prime is having trouble with this slippery team of magic users

I love Netossa’s analysis of the princesses weaknesses. Adora: can’t act to save her life. also extreme hair envy with she-ra

BUT GLIMMER: crippling self-doubt mixed with overwhelming hubris AHAAHAHHAAHAHAHAHA

OH MY GOD SHE SPRITZED CATRA WITH WATER JFDKLDFWDSFKSDFKJLDSJFJDSFKDSLKFSDLFJLKFLKDJFLKS AHAAHAHAAHA

PERFUMA DON”T BE A BITCH TO CATRA. (even though yeah Catra did treat Scorpia bad) she’s right you need to fuckin go for the neck (this episode is gonna show us that you need to damage the chip AND get through to scorpia and it’s going to take catra and perfuma ofc)

awwwww glimmer and bo.... bo is really worried about his dad :’( . this is the first time ive found myself shipping bo and glimmer.....the way he sighs into her arms, turns his face into her neck. Yes....

AWWW CATRA AND ADORA CHALLENGING EACH OTHER AGAIN AWWWW

BO’S DADS LEFT HIM A CLUE IN A FUCKING DAD JOKE ahahaahahahahaah

perfuma is really getting on my nerves here. ‘we dont throw tanks at our friends’ uhhhh shes trying to kill you. just let perfuma get electrocuted adora

AH THEY FINALLY GIVE AN ORIGIN STORY FOR ‘GRAYSKULL’! ha! i do love how they keep elaborating on the First Ones as tyrants as well

hmm perfuma was right i guess. i didnt really like that development. urgh god perfuma is so grating lol..

i wonder how shadowweaver and catra are gonna....deal with each other....

hah. shadowweaver tries to weasel in with Adora again. but Adora won’t stand for it again....

Melog literally acts out Catra’s emotions and jumps adora playfully. hehehehe

shadowweaver is such a fucking bitch. i wonder if we’ll ever get her to admit guilt or apologise

no adora. you have to fucking defend catra to shadowweaver. THAT is what you have to do now that you can!

SHE JUST JUMPED INTO FIRE FOR ADORA

shadowweaver preying on Adora and Catra again goddddd. let this be an episode in which they finally shuck her off. Adora fucking THINK, the only reason you could transform in the first place was BECAUSE of Catra.

YEAHHHHH CATRA!!!!!!!! GETTING ALL THE INFO BEFORE ADORA GETS MANIPULATED INTO SOMETHING SHE DIDN’T CHOOSE. naturally she still chooses to do it.

Melog lies half on top of Adora while Catra watches her.... god fuckin hell Melog being an extension of Catra’s feelings is so fucking AMAZING

holy FUCK that confrontation. (i love how every confrontation between adora and catra starts in roughhousing - their language is extremely physical). this is the softer version of catra’s and adora’s dynamic. Catra loves Adora and she wants Adora to choose HER, LIFE WITH HER. ‘what do you want?’ (WHAT ABOUT ME??) But Adora always chooses some higher hero purpose over her. and she doesn’t want to watch Adora die....

‘i dont have to watch it happen...’

god fuckin hell this season.

shadowweaver BELIEVES that she did the right things - of course. and that’s fascinating. and I love that Adora finally totally truly was like: YOU RUIN PEOPLE AND I WILL NEVER FORGIVE YOU. fuck yeah!

so when was the moment that Adora couldn’t become she-ra anymore? think it’s when she lost track of Catra....

I love Melog - I love how Catra cannot hide from her feelings anymore - at all.

the way glimmer asks adora ‘are you scared?’ ugh MY HEART

i love martyrs. i fucking LOVE martyrs.

oh my god hallucination Catra touching foreheads with Adora.....

EVERYTIME Glimmer just straight up shows Catra affection? that’s some good shit. i thought we were gonna have Glimmer going after Catra for her mother’s death at one point but no....not at all. and i dont mind it

GLIMMER SAID I LOVE YOU TWICE TO BO AND THEN BO SAID IT BACK AND KISSED HER DSFKSDLBJDS FOREHEAD !!!!!!!!!!!!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE MARA!!!

the fights this season have been SO! GOOD!

i love how they’ve set up that Glimmer is a fucking POWERHOUSE. she can turn the tide of battle in a blink!

naturally they pit Micah against Glimmer. jfc this poor family....

there is something important about Prime not remembering Mara....

SHE BEAT MICAH SHE BEAT HIM!!!! WALKING RIGHT THROUGH HIS STORM OF DARK MAGIC.

SCORPIA CRADLED BO LIKE A BABY

SHADOWWEAVER SAVING CATRA? FOR ONCE???? FOR ONCE CHOOSING CATRA OVER POWER????? FUCK THAT’S CATHARTIC EVEN IF IT WAS ONLY TO GET ADORA TO THE HEART

catra has such a soft heart really. she still, after everything, loves shadowweaver. god....

SHE SAID SHE WAS PROUD OF CATRA. SHE --- SHE - SHE SACRIFICED HERSELF. GOD THE VOICEACTING FOR CATRA WHEN SHE - ADORA FALLING TO HER KNEES. THEIR PSEUDO MOTHER... AGHLDJDWFJJDSLF

FUCCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKk

EVERY SINGLE LINE IS SO GOOD, so well-acted. the ‘im ready’ the way she says ‘catra’ like she can’t take anything anymore

i couldn’t write anything for the whole rest of that i was just covering my mouth with my hands

The fuckiN KISS! the look of PURE LOVE on ADoRA”S FACE

which in the back of my head - they cannot actually cut that in any way - it’s impossible to cut

adora with those blue eyes in the blaze, the magic is beautiful adora excising prime from hordak’s mind (WOW), adora and catra touching foreheads and the slight PURR you can hear, adult bo and glimmer (lookin so nice), adult catra (LOOKING SO HANDSOME in her prom-y outfit,) Glimmer chasing Catra, just, GOD, THE UTENA FUCKING REFERENCE, the way they say they love each other, my GOD, Scorpia being like woah perfuma you look nice, MY GOD MY GOD MY GOD THEM GOING TO SPREAD MAGIC TO THE UNIVERSE GOD!!!!!!

every single thing in this season was worth 4 seasons of enjoyable, entertaining, interesting, frustrating and meh. WOAH! WOAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#she ra #i have been BLOWN! AWAY!!! EVERYTHING WAS WORTH IT #my stuff #vidi #THiS WAS AN EXPERIENCE #OF EPIC PROPORTIONS

[moriganstrongheart]

She-Ra and the Princesses of Power: Season Two – Review

Developed by Noelle Stevenson 2019, Netflix 8 episodes, 24 minutes

Rating: ★★★★★

Good: Diversity, character writing & relationships Bad: Disappointing ending, lack of worldbuilding

​​[ ! ] Spoiler Warning

Much like my experience with the second season of The Dragon Prince, I was excited when I saw that the new season of She-Ra and the Princesses of Power had dropped on Netflix. I immediately binge-watched its entirety, and I am happy to say that the show remains consistently high in quality, though it still holds the same flaws it had in the first season. Diversity, character writing and relationships continue to be highlights of the series, with characters being even more grounded and complex than they were previously. Worldbuilding is still She-Ra’s weakest element; it feels like the writers may have realized this themselves, as they have focused their efforts on character interactions and relationships ,and tabled any significant worldbuilding. Considering that there hasn’t been much change in the show’s quality from the first season, I don’t have a lot to say that I didn’t cover in my previous review. The ending was a tad disappointing as it ends on a cliffhanger, but I understand that the next season is coming out in August of this year, so I’m willing to let that go. I think all I’ll do for now is list my favourite episodes from the season, which coincidentally happen to be the last four out of eight episodes.

Roll With It

I did not expect a D&D episode from She-Ra, but I’m glad it’s there. It was a blast seeing the characters engage in tabletop RPG tropes. I’m also a big fan of having various different animation styles contained in one episode, so this episode was a good time all around. I especially enjoyed Bow’s perspective; seeing all of the modern incarnations of the characters in their old timey, Masters of the Universe costumes had me laughing the entire way through. The sub-plots were also fun, though the best part was definitely the tabletop goofiness.

White Out

Two things made this episode stand out in my mind. The first is Scorpia’s struggle to get closer to Catra, and the second being ‘drunk’ Adora. The writers show how funny they can be when ‘drunk’ Adora is on screen, as her absurd behaviour leads to some great moments. As for Scorpia, it was nice to see her as more than a bumbling sidekick, and for her affections to finally get the attention of Catra after all this time. We’ve yet to see this develop further, but here’s hoping we get to see more of Scorpia’s development in the next season.

Light Spinner

While it was nice to finally experience Shadow Weaver’s origins, I think seeing Catra becoming close to—and then ultimately being betrayed by—Shadow Weaver is one of the most emotionally charged moments in the series so far. I was right along the ride with Catra, allowing myself to think that Shadow Weaver may want to genuinely connect with Catra. And so I also felt the pain of Shadow Weaver’s betrayal that Catra felt when she realized that Shadow Weaver had used her once again.

Reunion

I think I can sum up this episode by what Glimmer tells Bow shortly after meeting his dads; something along the lines of: “Your dads are super normal.” I don’t remember the exact quote; but this reinforced in me that the writers are really pushing for diversity—but more importantly—a diversity that is seen as ordinary, routine. Though I can’t comment on whether Bow’s dads are a good representation of gay men, I’m just happy that we have any kind of representation of homosexual men, as it was one of my only criticisms from the first season.

She-Ra and the Princesses of Power continues to be one of the best modern cartoon shows: for its diversity, character writing and character relationships. This season feels like a stop-gap until the next season comes out in August, and I can honestly say I’ll be waiting in anticipation until then. The writers and showrunners behind She-Ra are doing great work, standing as a shining example of what cartoons in modern times can achieve. I know I’ve mentioned it before in my previous review, but I hope this is not an isolated phenomenon. We need more stories like this—stories that teach that differences between people are normal, and not something to shun or be afraid of. So many television shows—especially those aimed at children—are built on damaged societal norms that indirectly harm people of colour and members of the LGBTQ+ community. She-Ra shows you can have a fun series that pushes diversity, and even uses that diversity to its advantage to create interesting characters and stories, without preaching to its audience in the process.

Official Show Website

#my reviews #review #television review #shera #spop #she-ra #she-ra and the princesses of power #she-ra and the princesses of power season two review #world building #world-building #worldbuilding #animation #netflix #dreamworks #noelle stevenson

[ericamzdm]

Trauma Holodeck - Adora’s Apology

...since I’ve covered a S5 apology (and what made it legitimate), I might as well give Adora’s apology in S1E11 (Promise) the same treatment.

So let’s cover what Adora has to apologize for. Because the bulk of this episode is Catra naming her hurt - having all the shards of pain that Adora and their relationship have caused her brought up and laid bare via the Trauma Holodeck.

Adora always has to play the hero - Adora derives validation from being the one who swoops in and fixes everything, even when that diminishes and denies Catra’s agency.

Adora repeatedly prioritizes her own need for external validation over Catra’s well being.

Now - and I don’t think either of them have fully come to terms with it, even as they both dimly see the shape of it - Adora ultimately never had the power to protect Catra. Making her think she did - that she could change, and thus was responsible for, Shadow Weaver’s abuse - is one of the great harms done to Adora.

But that in no way erases the fact that Adora uses "protection” as a justification for controlling Catra. Even if her protection had been in some sense real, it would have still been controlling and harmful.

And that is Catra’s complaint here.

It’s not “You never protected me [and I needed you to]!”

it’s “You never protected me [, stop using it as an excuse]!”

Adora loved being Shadow Weaver’s favorite - Adora wanted (needed) the validation she got from Shadow Weaver, just as she needed to believe that it was real and valid and earned.

Adora expects Catra to follow her, to listen to her, to do what she says.

This is the toxic tangle sitting at the core of pre-series/S1 Catradora relationship - that, however much they love each other, their relationship has been, for years, one where Adora hurts and controls Catra, and insists that it’s for Catra’s own good. Where she believed that Catra needs to be controlled and saved from herself.

It’s a relationship where Adora denies that she derives value from it, and, indeed, denies that she has needs and wants at all. Where she inhabits a fiction that everything she does is selfless and in service to the Greater Good, and thus cannot be questioned.

And Adora meets these absolutely true complaints with denial and deflection.

Pretending she got nothing from being the one who "saves” Catra, even as she is angered by Catra not being grateful like she’s supposed to be.

(Adora is deeply shaped by Shadow Weaver’s conditional affection - it drives her constant need to prove herself, to earn her place in the world and the hearts of her friends. But it also means that she expects to be rewarded with affection when she “does good”. She believes that if she saves Catra, Catra is obligated to love her.)

Deflecting to talking about Shadow Weaver, rather than addressing her own failure (and ultimate inability) to protect Catra, or the controlling behaviour that spun out from it.

Flatly lying that she didn’t value or actively pursue Shadow Weaver’s praise and favoritism - because she cannot confront how she uses that in place of an internal sense of worth.

Denying the plain fact that everything she has said in this episode is about how she didn’t want to leave Catra, about how she wants Catra to join her The Rebellion, about how Adora wants Catra back for Adora’s sake. That she absolutely did mean it that way.

Adora actively rejects, not only accountability for her role in their dysfunction, but the very idea that their dynamic had a problem - that she was an active participant in Catra’s harm, that merely walking away from Shadow Weaver was and is insufficient, that she wasn’t the hero she thought she was.

Adora thinks that if she just denies hard enough, all of these things will cease to be true - that Catra will once again fold and rejoin her in the fiction that everything is fine and nothing has to change.

And oh, she is angry when that doesn’t work. Angry and threatening. Angry and threatening, and echoing Shadow Weaver’s conditional affection.

“Catra, what are you doing?” Adora isn’t going to love you anymore if you keep that up, Catra. Better fall back in line, Catra.

(Yeah, Anger isn’t Abuse - that’s as true for Adora as it is for Catra - but the rest  of this? The threatening, the withdrawal of affection? Oh boy.)

But that fails, too. Because Catra has realized that Adora benefits from her harm. That Adora is not listening to her, not because Catra isn’t explaining herself well enough, but because Adora doesn’t want their relationship to change. That Adora wants to be Catra’s hero far more than she wants Catra to be happy.

Catra no longer fears losing Adora’s affection, because Catra has chosen to finally, fully leave her.

There’s one final, desperate round of denial.

And it’s only when that fails, when Catra has already cut her loose (🌈 metaphors🌈), that Adora finally apologizes.

And, oof.

Let’s review the qualities of a legitimate apology:

Taking Ownership - They are apologizing for their actions

Acknowledging Harm - They are acknowledging and centering the harm caused to the other person by said actions

Remedial Action - They are taking active steps to repair the damage they have caused, and to be better going forward.

Sincerity - The apology is offered for the sake of the person being apologized to, not for the benefit of the apologizer.

And let’s step through them.

Taking Ownership

“I never meant to make you feel like you were second best.”

Adora apologizes, not for her actions, but for Catra’s feelings - placing the fault in Catra’s emotions, not Adora’s behaviour.

Acknowledging Harm

“I never meant to make you feel like you were second best.”

She centers, not the harm Catra suffered, but her own intent and guilt - and by doing so, denies Catra’s framing. In a bit of verbal slight-of-hand, she has replaced the complaint that her control is undesired and intrinsically harmful with the idea that she has merely erred in how she used that [illegitimate] control.

(It’s also a lie. Adora knew perfectly well she was trapping Catra in a perpetual second place.)

Remedial Action

“I never meant to make you feel like you were second best.” 

Nothing is actually being fixed here. Adora has made no attempts at remedial action, provides no explicit promises going forward - and, because she altered the framing, her implicit promise is not “I will let you make your own decisions”, but is instead “I’ll make the right decisions for you, going forward.”

Sincerity

Adora is literally only apologizing because every other trick in her bag has failed. She is apologizing, not to help Catra, but as yet another attempt to “reset” their relationship, to go back to the way things were, even in the face of all the harm it caused to Catra.

Adora is 0 for 4. This is a bad apology.

#spop #adora #catra #catradora #shadow weaver #abuse #apologies #spop S1E11 #analysis #pick-apart

[sowk-fic-archive]

SOWK ch.29/35

Summary:

Life goes on for Dominic until The Big Day arrives...

Chapter 29 : commencement

Aching and sore, Dominic heaved himself up from the bed, careful to avoid Matthew’s sleeping form. The Voix evidently hadn’t slept well last night, too plagued by worries that he’d damaged Dominic beyond repair. Brushing his hand through Matthew’s sweat-soaked hair (which was definitely looking darker at the roots), the glouglou started to collect his clothes, leaving his ripped shirt and simply putting the cloak on over his jeans and bare torso instead. Casting one last look around the room, Dominic quietly left. He wasn’t sure if he would return, but he was sure Matthew would understand. This time, he wasn’t confronted by any other glouglous as he left the temple, determined to make his way straight home. He couldn’t risk shedding the cloak, especially as it was an unwritten rule that any form of nudity in public was punishable, so he distracted himself by thinking of excuses for Annie, his eyes glued to the floor. Hence why he didn’t see the six feet of Voix crashing into him. “Oi, watch it lad!” a very distinct voice called, and Dominic had to look up, his hood covering his hair but letting Lysander see his injuries. “What do you think y-- Dom’nic?” Dominic cast his eyes down to the floor, shuffling where he stood slightly. His limbs still burned from last night and he could do with one or six of his mother’s homemade remedies. “I didn’t know ya worked up them temples, thought that was for cassés with good behaviour an’ all that malarkey,” Lysander sneered, stooping slightly to look at Dominic’s injuries. “I’m not surprised someone beat ya up, to be honest. You’re a lil’ merde and serves ya right for tossin’ me onto the cobbles and beating me dry. Did ‘e get ya in the back of ya loaf like you did me, because--” Lysander yanked down Dominic’s hood, and the glouglou was exposed entirely to the mid-morning sun. Though his left eye was almost swollen shut, Dominic wasn’t mistaking the look of absolute shock on Lysander’s face. “What have you done,” Lysander gasped, jerking Dominic out of the main road and down a side alley, drawing him into the shade. “I don’t-- what?” “Your hair’s the bloody colour of the Prince of Persia’s gold, boy! This only happens one way and it don’t end pretty for ya, I tell ya.” “Sir, if I may, I have no idea--” “You’ve boinked Adora, ain’t ya?” Lysander said, still keeping a good foot or so from Dominic. The glouglou became incredibly self-conscious, drawing his hood up over his head again. His eyes bugged out of his head, and Lysander mistook his shock for confusion. “Ya know, hiding the sausage, a quick leg-over, a lil’ bit of the old in an’ out?” Lysander elaborated with a quick grin, that he soon wiped off his face. “You know, Adora will get punished but you, mate, will--” “It wasn’t Adora,” Dominic said, locking eyes with Lysander and feeling time freeze around them. Lysander’s expression was dark, and adrenaline surged through the glouglou’s veins, ready for fight or flight. “Fuck,” Lysander uttered, falling back against the opposite grimy wall of the alley. “It wouldn’t be ‘alf as bad if you was in love with Adora, but with our Matthew? Christ alive,” Lysander muttered, looking out to the main street. “How do you know about the consummating love thing?” Dominic asked, his voice indifferent. “Please, I was a Unique myself once, y’know.” Dominic quirked an eyebrow, biting his tongue to keep from voicing his complete disbelief in the man that was essentially a fallen angel from the Voix society that was Heaven. He settled on asking another question himself. “No, but... you knew, just by looking at me. How?” Lysander nodded, pausing for a few moments to formulate his answer. When he spoke, his voice was deep and, for the first time that day, incredibly sincere. “Your hair is a lot lighter than it was, boy. A lot lighter, as in... a few more shades and it’s borderin’ on the darkest of Voix. Honest,” he added after a beat. “That kind of thing doesn’t happen after simply doin’ the dirty with a Voix, otherwise half of the girls down here in Sectors 1, 2 an’ 3 would be running around with bright yellow ‘air.” Dominic winced, but nodded in understanding. Lysander continued. “So, it’s obvious you an’ Matthew are head over heels for one another, righto, I get that. You’re lookin’ paler too, but that might be that beatin’. But, your ‘air, it shouldn’t be that light already...” Lysander paused, looking towards the clear blue sky for some sort of inspiration. “This has been happnin’ a while, ain’t it? Is Matthew’s hair darker?” Dominic nodded, not trusting his voice. He was still trying to process all this new information. “Bloody hell,” Lysander cursed, kicking at a stone. “You’re going to cause a storm at the unveiling, I tell ya.” “But Matthew’s in love with Adora,” Dominic said, sounding far too innocent for his age. “They’ve had sex, so her hair will be turning dark too, right?” Lysander fixed him with a pointed stare, his lips pressed together in a tight line. “If you say so. Now, you better hurry home and pray your darlin’ mother don’t ask what you’ve been up to.” The Voix turned to exit the alleyway, Dominic shouting him down. “Wait!” he said, Lysander turning around with an unknown emotion in his eyes. “How do you know so much about all this?” “I wish I didn’t,” he replied simply, disappearing out into the main street and parting the crowds with his mere presence.

*

Dominic spent the next couple of weeks treading on eggshells. He lost count of the days, spending them tucked away around the house. Things passed him by, even important things that he normally would’ve invested himself in. A friend had given their mother a cookbook, which she had been delighted with. Nancy had reunited with Ben, both admitting that they loved each other and his twin proceeding to practically bounce around the house constantly. Dominic found himself writing songs more advanced and more lyrically deep than he ever had ever attempted before, connecting with music now on an almost ethereal level. He didn’t have a piano or a voice to use, and he almost went mad trying to use the voice in his mind to create melodies. Staves were created from the edges of Le Monde, from blank pages in Nancy’s romance novels, from scraps of kitchen towel his mother let him use. He broke down crying when his favourite pen ran out. Annie always brought him tea but they had almost stopped communicating beyond that; Dominic was lost in his own world, fearing for his life. Did the outside world know about him and Matthew? Not yet, judging from the newspaper, but then he wondered if their relationship had been subjected to an elaborate cover up. Had Agostino sneaked into Matthew’s temple night, killing his own son as Dominic himself had sworn to do all those months ago? The glouglou had no idea, so he locked himself away from society until the day when it would be absolutely necessary to emerge. That day came. Dévoilement. Dominic had to wear a shirt and tie, one that wrapped around his neck like a noose. His hair had dulled slightly, not enough to revert to its original dirty blond but enough for him not to be called out on it. His mother and sister dressed themselves in their finest skirts and blouses, Annie standing at the door trying to stick down a tuft of hair on Dominic’s head. “I feel sick,” he muttered, and Annie simply nodded. She couldn’t begin to comprehend what her son was going through, even though she was wearing the exact dress she wore when her own husband was killed. Dominic’s legs felt like lumps of concrete as they walked towards the temples, glouglous in their thousands flocking to the site. Some of the children were running around singing, this being their first Dévoilement and the whole idea of Cachant being terribly thrilling. Other glouglous were exchanging grumbles and gossip about the Uniques. Somehow, their supposed secrets didn’t impress Dominic in the slightest. After what felt like an eternity, the crowd was pushed through the golden gates into the larger compound. Most of the glouglou population couldn’t fit through the gates, but Dominic and his family were let through by others, recognised as Matthew’s songwriter. He pretended it was out of respect for his father, who had made this trip many times in his life. Fleck, though, had probably never felt as nervous as Dominic did in that moment. Dominic cast an eye over all the Voix with all their blond hair and pale skin, fenced off from the glouglous and dressed in rich finery; pastel blues, pinks and yellows. All too soon, Paix and Joie took to the stage, explaining that it was with pride and honour the Uniques would step up to their role, the first actual couple in decades. And, for a fleeting moment, Dominic wished for them to be a couple. He wanted Matthew and Adora to pull down their hoods with dark hair, to smile and embrace and bow to the crowds. To have children and marry, to perform across the globe. To eventually be the Anciens, ruling over the world that Dominic, his future wife and future children would inhabit, still in poverty but happy. That fleeting moment was gone. Dominic knew he wouldn’t be happy without Matthew, and when he appeared on stage, his figure shrouded in a flowing white robe, Dominic tried his hardest not to smile. The sickness in his stomach subsided, replaced by a fluttering of butterflies. Matthew and Adora smiled at each other as they met in the middle of the stage, Paix and Joie applauding from their seats above the crowd to Dominic’s right. Distinct cheering came from all around him, but Annie, Nancy and Ben remained silent. “And now,” Joie said, an invisible microphone projecting her voice across the compound, “it is my great pleasure to announce St Pierre’s new Uniques, Adora Constantine and Matthew Bellamy!” Matthew and Adora nodded to each other slightly, shifting closer together. A knife of jealousy sliced through Dominic’s stomach, the crowd cooing as they looked like they would kiss. Instead, they reached towards each other and lowered one another’s hoods. Dominic had never heard absolute silence before, nor had most of St Pierre. For a community that prided itself on song and music, a silence as profound as this was different. Unbelieveable. Unique. It was broken by three distinct sounds, each chasing each other as they echoed around the compound. One was the thud of someone falling to the floor, and out of the corner of their eyes the crowd observed their matriarch Joie fainting. The second and third noises came from the stage, and they were simultaneous. Adora had let out a peel of delighted giggles, and Matthew had simply whispered one word. “No.” Some bright spark had had the incredible idea to put a microphone on stage. As Matthew started repeating his denial to himself, Adora turned towards the audience, frantically searching the shocked faces of the Voix assembled below for an answer. “What...” she whispered, a half formed question falling from her lips. A glouglou rushed out onto the stage with a pair of handheld mirrors, but Adora was faster. She ripped out the pins that were holding her hair away from her face, letting it tumble down around her shoulders. Picking up curl between two fingers, she let the first sob ring out. It was blonde. Adora looked up at Matthew, both of them with tears running down their cheeks. “You...” she whispered, her voice echoing in the silence. There was absolutely no need for microphones, now. “You don’t love me anymore?” “I do,” Matthew said weakly, sobbing once. Dominic’s eyes were blurry and unfocused. He could feel his mother’s eyes upon him, hear his own heart hammering in his ears as Adora stepped towards Matthew. “Then what is this?” she shrieked, running her hands through Matthew’s hair as Dominic had done so many times before. It was black. “What is this?” she cried, grabbing fistfuls of her long hair and shoving it towards Matthew. “I love you with all my heart, so why is my hair not black? Why am I not a Unique?” “I--” Matthew stuttered, backing away slightly. Off the side of the stage, Paix had stopped attempting to rouse Joie and was simply telling everyone to go home. Something about an emergency meeting was mentioned but Matthew could hear nothing over the ringing in his ears. “I’m sorry,” he whispered, turning around to run off the stage, into the connecting corridor of the temples. He reached the cool darkness of the lobby, which was thankfully empty. He leant heavily against a stone wall, hunching over on himself and dry heaving. “I don’t deserve this,” Matthew said to himself, choking down another sob. “Your father is looking for you,” a voice said suddenly, and Matthew straightened up to find his mother, staring at him with folded arms. She offered no further explanation, and suddenly the penny dropped. It wasn’t just Matthew’s dreams that had been shattered in front of millions of people. “Maman,” he said, his voice cracking. It was the first time he had ever uttered that word in his life. “Maman, please. Please Maman, I can’t face him, please,” he said hysterically, looking down at himself. He realised he was still wearing his robe, and he ripped it from his body, leaving him in a white shirt and trousers. The colour of purity and innocence. “Matthew...” she started reasoning, but before she could say anymore her son had clasped his hands around her waist, burying his face into her neck and crying louder than he ever had before. When she gently pushed him away as to see his face, he was shaking like a leaf. “You don’t have to see your father-,” she began, swallowing the lump at the back of her throat as she hesitantly added, “-yet. First, you have to see...” Matthew knew what was coming. His breath came quick and fast, and the ringing in his ears was louder than ever. All he could see in his vision were coloured spots. Before he hit the floor (or before Calliope’s arms caught him; he never found out), he heard the name of the woman he had so bitterly betrayed; the woman who made Agostino’s humiliation look entirely irrelevant. “Adora.”

[ericamzdm]

Trauma Holodeck - Fighting Dirty

So, uh. Let’s talk about that sparring memory from the Trauma Holodeck.

This flashback has a lot of moving parts, but at it’s core: Catra is not allowed to win. Whenever she gets close, the rules of the game are changed on her, and she is blamed for it. (“You were fighting dirty.”)

Adora wins, not because she is a better fighter, but because the world bends to make it so. (weighting the field to favour Adora is “leveling” it.)

And just to be clear - Catra wasn’t “fighting dirty”. She took a fall, and then continued to fight, weaponizing her injury (And geeze if that isn’t a metaphor).

This wasn’t a rules enforcement by a neutral referee - this is someone who doesn’t like Catra deciding that anything that allowed Catra to succeed must be inherently illegitimate.

And up until this point, that’s not Adora’s fault.

But let’s talk about the negative space in Adora’s comments here.

Adora says: “Hey, you were awesome!”

Adora doesn’t say: “You would have won/I would have lost, if Lonnie hadn’t pitched in.” , “I would have won, even if Lonnie hadn’t thrown in!”, or even “Hey, Lonnie! I could have won without help!”

What Adora thinks she’s doing: Keeping the peace! She’s made Catra not angry, stopping the fight!

What Adora is actually doing: Emotionally manipulating Catra, forcing her to sublimate her anger and redirect her attention to respond to the (vague, unrelated) praise “appropriately”.

This does short-circuit the brewing fight - Catra can’t have it out with Lonnie while she’s busy with the Catradora Validation Dance - but that means the conflict has not been resolved. Catra is still hurt and angry (she’s just hiding it). Lonnie still believes it’s “fair” to gang up on Catra to prevent her from winning.

More than that - Adora’s complete silence on the matter is an implicit endorsement of Lonnie’s interference, and a reinforcement of the “Let’s bully Catra” status quo as natural and correct.

It’s also a way for Adora to re-write the world into one where, sure, Catra did good, but not as good as Adora. Because she hasn’t acknowledged Lonnie’s role, she can tell herself that Commander Cobalt was right - she won because she has “good focus”, because she’s just inherently better, not because she had help.

(or that, because everyone expects great things of her, they see greatness in banality).

“Did I hurt you?”

not

“Are you okay?” (Which is, non-trivially, how she expressed genuine concern during the fight.)

Oh hey, it’s an abuse tactic^. For those not familiar: by centering her actions, Adora has made the question about whether Catra blames her. If Catra doesn’t want to say “Yes, you hurt me.” - and the natural impulse is to not, if only to avoid “drama” - then she must dismiss being hurt.

It’s also making it Catra’s job to affirmatively report harm. Which is a one-two punch of applying “Go along to get along” pressure (Complain if it gets bad! Is it really bad enough to be worth complaining?), and removing accountability from the person asking (having asked, they have no further obligation to do their own monitoring or either their behaviour or the other person’s reactions).

These are specific, targeted tricks, meant to manipulate the target into absolving the speaker of blame, by pressuring them into denying that anything hurtful happened.

[Sarcastic] “Right.”

not

“Hey, you almost got me.” or “You’ll get me next time”

Obviously Catra is sour grapes-ing here, by claiming to have thrown the match.

But there’s a great empty space in Adora’s responses where I would expect to see actual, meaningful validation in a healthy relationship - an attempt to encourage Catra, to support her, to help make them an equal team, and allow Catra to achieve her obvious goals of external validation and success.

Instead, Catra got a self-assured “Riiight”, a full on dismissal of the idea that Catra could have won. That’s not friendly banter. That’s a slight on Catra’s genuine skills, disguised as friendly banter.

Adora saying Catra was “awesome” in some vague way, then pairing it with (essentially) “Not that you could ever actually beat me”? That’s not validation. That’s a backhanded compliment, meant to remind Catra that, however much she tries, however well she does, Adora is just naturally going to be the winner. (Anything that would challenge that? Well, that would be cheating. Fighting dirty, even.)

And, faced with the prospect of disputing that - of having to fight with Adora, of risking the one source of external validation she does get (deeply flawed as it is) - Catra instead retreats, and constructs the protective fiction of choosing to underachieve. (which will become less of a fiction, and more of a survival mechanism, as time goes by).

A fiction that Adora doesn’t even give the courtesy of pretending to believe.

But hey, it’s Catra’s job to tell Adora if she’s upset. So Adora’s just gotta accept the blatant lie that’s convenient for Adora, and go off to be validated by the rest of the group.

And Catra is left hiding in the bathroom, because Adora has, with a smile, a backhanded compliment, and some carefully chosen silences, utterly shattered her self-confidence.

Catra isn’t reduced to rage and tears because she lost a fight. She’s furious because everyone implicitly agreed it’s fine to gang up on Catra, that’s what Catra deserves. She’s in tears because even Adora doesn’t believe that she’s capable of winning.

That Adora’s fine with Catra lying about wanting to succeed - more than that, she will use that obvious lie as a cudgel going forward, to shut down any attempt Catra makes at walking it back, at admitting that she does want to be something more than Adora’s sidekick.

But now that tool has broken.

=============================

^I specifically would not use the word “abuse” to describe their behaviors for any of the younger flashbacks. Four, six, and eight year old Catra and Adora do a lot of messed up, maladaptive, and harmful things, but because they are children (or, you know, fictional representations of children) they lack the knowledge and cognitive development to meaningfully have harmful intent, a key component in what makes abuse abuse.

But here? They’re what, 14ish? While their culpability is still limited, they’re close enough to being fully-baked people that it’s reasonable to start describing their behaviour in terms of abuse and toxicity.

#spop #catra #adora #s1e11 #abuse #emotional abuse #manipulation #shadow weaver #spop flashbacks #pick-apart